Tall Fescue
Festuca arundinacea (syn. Schedonorus arundinaceus) · Cool-season, Perennial, C3 grass
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Pooideae, tribe Poeae
Grass Category
Pasture/Forage Grass, Lawn/Turf, Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Likely a forage-type or 'K-31' type based on coarse texture and prominent bunching
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 4-7; excellent heat tolerance for its type but goes dormant in extreme heat or cold; suitable for the Transition Zone.
About This Grass
A coarse-textured, deep-rooting grass forming distinct clumps or hummocks. Color is deep emerald green when hydrated, turning tan/brown during summer dormancy or extreme drought as seen in the image. Notable for high density within the clump but poor lateral spread.
Blade Characteristics
Coarse blade width (5-10mm), flat shape with pointed tips, dark green color, rolled vernation in the bud, prominent longitudinal ribs on the upper surface, lack of auricles, and a short hairy or membranous ligule.
Root System
Deep fibrous root system (up to 2-3 feet), low thatch tendency, slow establishment from seed but high durability. Lack of stolons/rhizomes prevents it from forming a dense sod without heavy seeding.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Europe and North Africa; widely naturalized in North America and temperate regions
Growth Habit
Bunch-type (clump-forming); very limited short rhizomes may be present in some cultivars
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade; requires 4-6 hours direct sun. High drought tolerance for a cool-season grass due to deep roots; prefers well-drained soil with pH 5.5-7.5.
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal height 3-4 inches; infrequent mowing led to the clumping seen; needs 2-4 lbs N/1000 sq ft annually; low to medium maintenance requirement.
Special Characteristics
High traffic and wear tolerance; good disease resistance to brown patch; excellent erosion control on slopes; does not spread into flower beds easily.
Ecological Information
Introduced species; provides cover for small mammals; excellent for soil stabilization; can be invasive in native prairies; often mixed with Kentucky Bluegrass for better sod density.