Tall Fescue
Schedonorus arundinaceus · Cool-season, Perennial, C3 grass, widely adapted to the transition zone
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Pooideae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass
Variety / Cultivar
Standard turf-type tall fescue cultivars (e.g., 'Rebel', 'Falcon')
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 4 through 7, highly successful in the transition zone
About This Grass
Tufted, coarse-textured bunchgrass that forms a relatively dense turf when properly maintained; grows up to 2-4 feet tall if left unmowed
Blade Characteristics
Coarse texture (4-8mm wide), flat, pointed tip, prominent parallel veins, rolled in bud (vernation)
Root System
Deep, extensive fibrous root system going down several feet, providing excellent drought resistance
Growing Information
Origin Region
Europe, widely naturalized and cultivated in North America
Growth Habit
Bunch-type with short rhizomes
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade; moderate water needs; high drought tolerance once established
Mowing & Maintenance
Mow at 2.5 to 4 inches; medium maintenance level requiring regular mowing and moderate fertilization
Special Characteristics
Good wear tolerance, high heat and drought tolerance for a cool-season grass, moderate shade tolerance
Ecological Information
Introduced species, provides erosion control and wildlife cover, often mixed with Kentucky bluegrass