Tall Fescue
Festuca arundinacea (syn. Schedonorus arundinaceus) · Cool-season, Perennial, C3
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Pooideae, tribe Poeae
Grass Category
Lawn, Turf, Pasture, and Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Turf-type Tall Fescue (TTTF), likely a blend of improved cultivars
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 4-7; has high heat tolerance for cool-season grass but prone to brown patch disease in humid summers.
About This Grass
A coarse to medium-textured grass with a deep green color. Forms dense bunches that can appear as patchy clumps if the lawn is thin. Lacks aggressive spreading capability, requiring overseeding to maintain density.
Blade Characteristics
Width of 3-5mm (coarse/medium); prominent veins on the upper surface; dull underside; pointed tip; rolled vernation; lacks auricles; ligule is short and membranous or fringed with hairs.
Root System
Deep fibrous root system (often 2-3 feet deep), giving it superior drought tolerance compared to other cool-season grasses. Forms low thatch; slow recovery from heavy wear.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Europe, North Africa, and West Asia; well-adapted to the Transition Zone and temperate climates
Growth Habit
Bunch-type; forms thick clumps with limited short rhizomes occasionally present in newer cultivars
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade; requires 4-6 hours of sun. Moderate water needs; high drought tolerance for its class. Prefers well-drained soil with pH 5.5-7.5.
Mowing & Maintenance
Recommended 3.0 to 4.0 inches; high mowing promotes deep roots. Fertilization: 2-4 lbs N per 1000 sq ft annually. Low to medium maintenance level.
Special Characteristics
Excellent wear tolerance; good shade tolerance; highly resistant to drought; salt tolerant; generally resistant to many common lawn pests.
Ecological Information
Introduced species; provides soil stabilization for slopes; value as forage for livestock; often mixed with Kentucky Bluegrass for improved traffic and drought resilience.