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, Sports Turf, Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Turf-type tall fescue (e.g., 'Rebel', 'Falcon'), known for finer texture and darker green color than older forage varieties
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 9, excellent performance in the transition zone with high heat and cold tolerance
About This Grass
Forms a moderately dense turf with a coarse to medium texture. Unmowed height reaches 2 to 4 feet, while maintained turf is kept around 2 to 3 inches. Color is medium to dark green, maintaining green color well into autumn and winter
Blade Characteristics
Medium to coarse width (3-6mm), flat with prominent parallel veins on the upper surface, pointed tips, rolled in the bud (vernation), with a distinct membranous ligule and no auricles
Root System
Deep, extensive fibrous root system going down 2 to 3 feet or more, providing superior drought tolerance; moderate establishment speed and low thatch-forming tendency
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Europe and introduced globally; thrives in temperate climates and the North American transition zone
Growth Habit
Bunch-type (clump-forming) with short, underground rhizomes that can create a slightly denser turf over time
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade tolerant; requires moderate regular watering once established, exhibiting high drought resistance due to deep roots; prefers well-drained loamy soils with pH 5.5-6.5
Mowing & Maintenance
Mow at 2.5 to 4 inches height every 7-10 days; fertilization needs are moderate (2-4 lbs N per 1000 sq ft annually); requires occasional overseeding in thin spots; medium overall maintenance level
Special Characteristics
Good wear and traffic tolerance, excellent drought recovery, high resistance to major turf diseases compared to other cool-season grasses, moderate shade tolerance, and strong erosion control capabilities
Ecological Information
Introduced species widely used for soil conservation and stabilization; provides moderate wildlife habitat value; often mixed with Kentucky bluegrass or perennial ryegrass in turf applications