Kentucky Bluegrass (Surrounding Non-Grass Weed)
Poa pratensis (Grass) and Viola sororia (Weed) · Cool-season Perennial (C3)
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Pooideae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass (Interspersed with Common Blue Violet weed)
Variety / Cultivar
Common or 'Midnight' type blend
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 2-7; excellent cold tolerance but struggles in the humid heat of the Deep South.
About This Grass
A medium-textured turf grass that is dark green in color. Note: The image is heavily dominated by Common Blue Violet, a broadleaf weed, which obscures much of the grass. The grass present shows a low-growth habit typical of mowed residential turf.
Blade Characteristics
Fine to medium width (2-3mm), V-shaped or flat, distinctive boat-shaped tips, dark green color, folded vernation, no auricles, and a short membranous ligule.
Root System
Fibrous and rhizomatous; moderate depth that allows for excellent sod formation and recovery but requires consistent moisture compared to fescues.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Europe, Northern Asia, and North Africa; naturalized globally in temperate climates
Growth Habit
Rhizomatous (spreading via horizontal underground stems), forming a dense sod over time
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to very light shade; prefers 6+ hours of sun. Moderate to high water needs; goes dormant during severe drought to protect the crown.
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal height 2.5 to 3.5 inches; requires regular mowing and higher nitrogen fertilization (2-4 lbs N per 1000 sq ft) for peak performance.
Special Characteristics
Excellent self-repairing capability due to rhizomes; high wear tolerance; susceptible to summer patch and necrotic ring spot in certain conditions.
Ecological Information
Introduced and naturalized in North America. Provides soil stabilization but can be outcompeted by broadleaf weeds like the violets shown if the lawn is thin or over-watered.