Tall Fescue
Festuca arundinacea (syn. Schedonorus arundinaceus) · Cool-season, Perennial, C3
Grass Family
Poaceae, Subfamily Pooideae, Tribe Poeae
Grass Category
Pasture/Forage, Turf/Lawn, or Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Indeterminate; likely a forage-type or older 'Kentucky 31' based on coarse texture and clump size
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 4-7; has high heat tolerance for cool-season grass but can suffer in extreme Southern summer heat.
About This Grass
A coarse, deep-rooted grass forming dense individual clumps. It maintains a dark green color under moderate stress and grows significantly taller (2-4 feet) if left unmowed. Texture is generally medium to coarse depending on moisture and light.
Blade Characteristics
Wide blades (5-10mm), flat shape with a pointed tip. Notable prominent veins on the upper surface with a rough edge. Vernation is rolled in the bud. Ligules are short and membranous; auricles are small and short-hairy.
Root System
Deep fibrous root system (up to 3 feet or more), providing excellent stability and drought resistance compared to other cool-season grasses. Minimal thatch development.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Europe and North Africa; naturalized throughout North America in temperate regions
Growth Habit
Bunch-type (clump-forming); very limited rhizomatous activity occasionally present
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade; requires at least 4-6 hours of sun. High drought tolerance for a cool-season grass but requires consistent moisture during establishment.
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal height 3-4 inches; maintenance level is moderate. Requires 2-4 lbs Nitrogen per 1000 sq ft annually in turf settings. Frequent overseeding may be needed for clumps to fill gaps.
Special Characteristics
Excellent wear tolerance once established; high disease resistance; moderate shade tolerance; superior drought recovery due to deep roots.
Ecological Information
Introduced/Naturalized in North America. Provides good soil stabilization for slopes. Can be invasive in native prairie ecosystems. High forage value for livestock but may contain endophytes.