Tall Fescue
Schedonorus arundinaceus · Cool-season, Perennial, C3 grass, highly adapted to the transition zone
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Pooideae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass, Sports Turf, Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Turf-type tall fescue (e.g., 'Rebel', 'Biltmore')
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 9, excellent transition zone performance, good heat and cold tolerance
About This Grass
Forms a moderately dense turf with medium-coarse texture, bright to dark green color, upright growth habit, maintaining color well into winter
Blade Characteristics
Medium to coarse width (3-8 mm), flat shape with prominent parallel veins on the upper surface, pointed tips, rolled in the bud (vernation)
Root System
Deep, extensive fibrous root system going down several feet, providing superior drought tolerance and moderate establishment speed
Growing Information
Origin Region
Europe, widely naturalized and cultivated across North America and temperate regions worldwide
Growth Habit
Bunch-type grass with short, underground rhizomes forming a dense clump-forming turf
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade, moderate watering needs once established, very good drought tolerance due to deep roots
Mowing & Maintenance
Mow at 2.5 to 4 inches, medium maintenance level, requires regular mowing and moderate fertilization
Special Characteristics
High traffic and wear tolerance, good disease resistance, moderate shade tolerance, excellent drought recovery
Ecological Information
Introduced species, provides good erosion control and wildlife habitat, often mixed with Kentucky bluegrass or perennial ryegrass