Kentucky Bluegrass
Poa pratensis · Cool-season, Perennial, C3 grass
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Pooideae, tribe Poeae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass, Sports Turf
Variety / Cultivar
Common/Unknown (displays medium density and standard blue-green hue characteristic of common KBG)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 2-7; excellent cold tolerance, poor heat tolerance, enters winter dormancy in cold climates.
About This Grass
A cool-season perennial that forms a lush, carpet-like turf. Medium growth rate with a striking dark green to blue-green color. It reaches 12-24 inches if unmowed, producing panicle-type seed heads.
Blade Characteristics
Blade width is medium (2-4mm) with a distinct boat-shaped tip. Vernation is folded in the bud. Leaves are smooth with a dull underside and a prominent midrib (keel). Ligule is short and membranous; auricles are absent.
Root System
Moderately shallow fibrous root system with extensive rhizomes. High thatch-forming tendency; slow to establish from seed but excellent for sod production and wear recovery.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Europe, Northern Asia, and Morocco; widely adapted to temperate climates globally
Growth Habit
Rhizomatous (spreading via underground stems), forms a dense, uniform sod
Sunlight & Water Needs
Prefers Full Sun (6-8 hours); moderate shade tolerance. High water needs; enters dormancy during severe drought to survive, reviving when moisture returns. Prefers pH 6.0-7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal height 2.0-3.0 inches. Requires frequent mowing and 2-4 lbs N per 1000 sq ft annually. High maintenance; requires regular aeration and dethatching.
Special Characteristics
Excellent wear tolerance and self-repairing ability via rhizomes. Moderate resistance to many diseases but susceptible to summer patch and necrotic ring spot. Highly valued for home lawns and athletic fields.
Ecological Information
Introduced/Naturalized in North America. Provides cover for small insects; stabilizes soil effectively through dense rhizome mats. Commonly blended with Perennial Ryegrass and Fine Fescues.