Kentucky Bluegrass
Poa pratensis · Cool-season (C3), Perennial
Grass Family
Poaceae, Subfamily Pooideae, Tribe Poeae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass, Sports Turf, Golf Course Fairways/Roughs
Variety / Cultivar
Likely an improved cultivar such as 'Midnight', 'Award', or 'Blueberry' based on the dark green color and fine texture.
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 2-7; excellent cold tolerance; poor heat tolerance in deep south; goes into winter dormancy (browns) in extreme cold.
About This Grass
A dense, low-growing grass with a rich emerald to dark blue-green color. Mowed height is typically 2-3 inches, but can reach 12-24 inches if left unmowed. It produces a panicle seed head and has a smooth, fine-to-medium texture.
Blade Characteristics
Fine to medium width (2-4mm); V-shaped or flat blades; iconic 'boat-shaped' (cupped) tips; folded vernation in the bud; short, membranous ligule; auricles absent; smooth margins.
Root System
Relatively shallow to moderate fibrous root system supported by aggressive rhizomes. High thatch tendency due to density; moderate establishment speed from seed; exceptional sod-forming ability.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Europe, North Asia, and the mountains of Morocco and Algeria; widely naturalized in North America and cool temperate climates worldwide.
Growth Habit
Rhizomatous (spreading via underground stems). Forms a dense, thick sod that is highly resilient and capable of self-repair.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun preferred (6+ hours); moderate shade tolerance; requires consistent moisture (~1 inch per week) and goes dormant during extreme drought/heat; prefers well-drained soil with pH 6.0-7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
1.5 to 3.5 inches; weekly frequency; 2-4 lbs Nitrogen per 1000 sq ft annually; requires biennial core aeration; high maintenance level to maintain peak aesthetics.
Special Characteristics
Excellent wear tolerance and recovery due to rhizomes; susceptible to leaf spot, melting-out, and summer patch; low salt tolerance; beautiful winter color retention until heavy frost.
Ecological Information
Introduced/Naturalized in North America; provides cover for small mammals and nesting sites for birds; excellent soil stabilizer for erosion control; often blended with Perennial Ryegrass or Fine Fescue.