Red Fescue

Festuca rubra · Cool-season, perennial, C3

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Red Fescue

Grass Category

Lawn/Turf

Hardiness Zones

USDA zones 1 through 9. Excellent cold tolerance and good shade adaptation, enters dormancy in extreme heat.

About This Grass

Fine-textured, upright growing up to 18-24 inches with seed heads. Features a deep green color and purplish, open panicle seed heads.

Blade Characteristics

Very narrow, folded, needle-like blades with pointed tips. Smooth texture with folded vernation.

Growing Information

Growth Habit

Rhizomatous, forms dense turf with moderate lateral spread.

Sunlight & Water Needs

Thrives in full sun to partial shade, preferring well-drained soils and moderate moisture. Poor drought tolerance.

Mowing & Maintenance

Mow at 1.5 to 2.5 inches. Low fertilizer needs; high maintenance not required.

Identified on 10/3/2026