Tall Fescue
Festuca arundinacea (syn. Schedonorus arundinaceus) · Cool-season, Perennial, C3 grass
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Pooideae, tribe Poeae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass, Pasture/Forage, and Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Turf-Type Tall Fescue (TTTF), likely a blend of older established cultivars given the visible texture and mix of some coarser blades.
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 4-7; highly successful in the Transition Zone where it is too hot for bluegrass and too cold for bermuda.
About This Grass
A coarse to medium-textured grass forming dense individual clumps. It has a deep green color and retains its green longer into the winter than many grasses. It does not spread well to fill bare spots, leading to the distinct bunchy appearance visible in the image.
Blade Characteristics
Coarse blade width (4-10mm), flat shape with a distinctly pointed tip and prominent longitudinal ribs (veins) on the upper surface. Lower surface is smooth and glossy. Vernation is rolled in the bud. Ligule is short and membranous; auricles are small or absent.
Root System
Extremely deep fibrous root system (often 2-3 feet deep), which provides excellent drought tolerance. It has a low thatch-forming tendency compared to bluegrass or bermuda.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Europe and North Africa; widely naturalized in North America, particularly in the Transition Zone.
Growth Habit
Bunch-type (clump-forming); lacks significant rhizomes or stolons, though some newer cultivars may produce short rhizomes. Results in a patchy appearance if thin.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to moderate shade (one of the most shade-tolerant cool-season grasses). Prefers regular water but survives drought by going dormant or utilizing deep roots. Adaptable to various soil types and pH 5.5-7.5.
Mowing & Maintenance
High mowing height recommended (3-4 inches) to protect the crown and encourage deep roots. Requires 2-4 lbs Nitrogen per 1000 sq ft annually. Does not require frequent dethatching but needs annual overseeding due to bunch-type growth.
Special Characteristics
Excellent wear tolerance and traffic resistance. High heat tolerance for a cool-season grass. Moderately resistant to many diseases, though susceptible to Brown Patch in humid, hot conditions.
Ecological Information
Introduced species in North America. Provides excellent soil stabilization due to deep roots. Used frequently in low-maintenance areas for erosion control. Often mixed with Kentucky Bluegrass for a more resilient lawn blend.