Fine Fescue
Festuca subgen. Schedonorus (varieties including Festuca rubra and Festuca ovina) · Cool-season, Perennial, C3 grass
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Pooideae, tribe Poeae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass, Ornamental Grass, Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Likely a blend such as Creeping Red Fescue or Chewings Fescue
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 3-7; high cold tolerance; poor heat tolerance in humid southern climates; goes dormant in extreme heat.
About This Grass
A fine-textured, needle-like grass forming a dense green mat. Displays a soft, flowing appearance when left unmowed. Color ranges from deep green to grayish-green.
Blade Characteristics
Narrower than 2mm, needle-like or bristle-like; folded vernation; pointed tips; often dull or dark green in color; ligule is very short and membranous; auricles are absent.
Root System
Moderately deep fibrous roots; some varieties produce slender rhizomes; moderate thatch production; slow to moderate establishment speed.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Europe and Asia; widely adapted to North America and cool-temperate regions globally
Growth Habit
Mixed bunch-type and rhizomatous (depending on variety); low to moderate spread rate
Sunlight & Water Needs
Shade tolerant to Full Sun; requires 4-6 hours of light; low water needs; high drought tolerance due to low evapotranspiration; prefers well-drained, acidic soil.
Mowing & Maintenance
1.5 to 3.0 inches height; low frequency; 1-2 lbs N per 1000 sq ft per year; low dethatching needs; low to medium maintenance overall.
Special Characteristics
Excellent shade tolerance; salt tolerance; high drought resistance; low traffic/wear tolerance compared to wider-bladed grasses; good disease resistance in dry conditions.
Ecological Information
Introduced in North America; provides soil stabilization on slopes; low wildlife food value but provides cover for small insects; often used in 'no-mow' or low-input ecological seed mixes.