Tall Fescue
Schedonorus arundinaceus · Cool-season, Perennial, C3 grass; highly suitable for the transition zone.
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Pooideae, tribe Poeae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass, Sports Turf, Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Turf-type tall fescue varieties such as 'Rebel', 'Falcon', or 'Biltmore'.
Hardiness Zones
Thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 9, highly tolerant of both summer heat in the transition zone and cold northern winters.
About This Grass
Forms a moderately coarse, upright, and dense turf with bright to dark green color. Height ranges from 2 to 4 inches when maintained as a lawn, but can grow up to 2-3 feet if left unmowed.
Blade Characteristics
Blades are medium-coarse in width (4-8mm), flat with prominent parallel veins on the upper surface, pointed tips, and a rough texture along the margins. Vernation is rolled in the bud, with a membranous ligule and small or absent auricles.
Root System
Deep root system extending 2 to 3 feet or more into the soil, providing exceptional drought tolerance. Moderate establishment speed, low-to-moderate thatch tendency, and forms a tough sod.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Europe; widely naturalized and cultivated across North America, especially in the transition zone.
Growth Habit
Primarily bunch-type growth habit with short rhizomes, forming dense clumps rather than spreading rapidly.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Performs best in full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight. Moderate water needs once established, with excellent drought tolerance due to its deep root system.
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal mowing height is 2.5 to 4 inches. Mowing frequency is moderate during active spring and fall growth. Fertilization requires 2-4 lbs N per 1000 sq ft annually. Medium maintenance level.
Special Characteristics
Excellent wear tolerance, good resistance to common turf diseases, moderate shade and salt tolerance, and superior deep-root drought recovery.
Ecological Information
Introduced species widely used for soil stabilization and erosion control. Provides good wildlife cover and habitat value in agricultural and suburban landscapes.