Kentucky Bluegrass
Poa pratensis · Cool-season, Perennial, C3 grass
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Pooideae, tribe Poeae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass
Variety / Cultivar
Likely a blend of improved turf-type cultivars (e.g., 'Midnight', 'Mazama', or 'Blueberry') given the dark green color and fine-to-medium texture.
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 2-7. Excellent cold tolerance; undergoes winter dormancy in northern climates. Poorly adapted to the deep South due to heat stress.
About This Grass
A dense, lush turfgrass with a characteristic dark blue-green to emerald green color. It maintains a soft texture and uniform appearance when mowed. Unmowed, it can reach heights of 12-24 inches with open, pyramidal panicle seed heads.
Blade Characteristics
Blades are typically 2-4mm wide (medium) with a distinct 'boat-shaped' tip. The vernation is folded in the bud. Blades exhibit a prominent mid-vein and a smooth surface. It has a short membranous ligule and no auricles.
Root System
Moderately deep fibrous root system complemented by extensive rhizomes. It has a high thatch-forming tendency but excellent self-repairing capabilities and high sod strength.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Europe, Northern Asia, and the mountains of Morocco and Algeria; widely adapted to temperate regions of North America and Australia.
Growth Habit
Rhizomatous (spreading via underground stems). It forms a dense, tightly knit sod and has a moderate to aggressive spreading rate in favorable conditions.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Prefers full sun (minimum 6 hours) but newer cultivars have moderate shade tolerance. High water needs during peak summer; will enter dormancy during severe drought to survive. Prefers well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal height is 2.5 to 3.5 inches. Requires frequent mowing (weekly). Fertilization: 2-4 lbs N per 1000 sq ft annually. High maintenance level due to water and nutrient requirements.
Special Characteristics
Excellent wear tolerance and recovery due to rhizomes. Susceptible to Summer Patch, Dollar Spot, and Necrotic Ring Spot. Highly prized for aesthetic quality and foot feel.
Ecological Information
Introduced and naturalized in North America. Provides habitat for small insects and soil stabilization. Often mixed with Perennial Ryegrass or Fine Fescue for increased biodiversity and shade adaptation.