Kentucky Bluegrass
Poa pratensis · Cool-season, Perennial, C3 grass
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Pooideae, tribe Poeae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass
Variety / Cultivar
Common or various blended cultivars ('Midnight', 'Baron')
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 3-7, excellent cold tolerance, moderate heat tolerance, thrives in northern climates and northern transition zones
About This Grass
Rich medium-to-dark green color, fine-to-medium texture, high density, forms a dense sod, grows up to 12-24 inches if unmowed, boat-shaped leaf tips
Blade Characteristics
Medium width (2-4mm), flat or folded, boat-shaped tip, folded in the bud, smooth texture, prominent parallel veins
Root System
Moderate depth fibrous roots with aggressive rhizomes, moderate thatch tendency, slower establishment from seed, excellent wear recovery
Growing Information
Origin Region
Europe, Northern Asia, and parts of North America; cultivated worldwide in temperate regions
Growth Habit
Rhizomatous with aggressive underground spreading, forming a dense turf mat
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun preferred (at least 6-8 hours), moderate to high water needs, goes into summer dormancy during severe drought
Mowing & Maintenance
Mowing height 2.0-3.0 inches, frequent mowing in spring/fall, medium-high maintenance level, requires regular nitrogen fertilization
Special Characteristics
High traffic/wear tolerance via rhizomes, good cold hardiness, fair shade tolerance compared to fine fescues, self-repairing turf
Ecological Information
Widely naturalized in North America, provides good soil stabilization, moderate wildlife value, commonly mixed with perennial ryegrass and fescues