Tall Fescue
Schedonorus arundinaceus · Cool-season, Perennial, C3 grass, highly adapted to the transition zone
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Pooideae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass, Pasture/Forage, and Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Kentucky 31 (KY-31)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 4-9, thrives in the transition zone with good heat and cold tolerance
About This Grass
Forms upright, dense clumps with coarse texture, bright to medium green color, growing up to 2-4 feet tall if unmanaged
Blade Characteristics
Coarse blades (4-8mm wide), flat with prominent parallel veins on the upper surface, pointed tips, rolled in the bud (vernation)
Root System
Deep, extensive fibrous root system going down several feet, providing excellent drought and wear resistance
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Europe, widely naturalized and cultivated across North America
Growth Habit
Bunch-type grass with short, underground rhizomes allowing limited lateral spread
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade, moderate water requirements, high drought tolerance once established
Mowing & Maintenance
Mow at 2.5 to 4 inches, medium maintenance level, requires regular mowing and moderate fertilization
Special Characteristics
High traffic tolerance, good disease resistance, excellent for erosion control on slopes and solar farms
Ecological Information
Widely used for soil stabilization and wildlife cover; can be managed as a sustainable ground cover under solar installations