Tall Fescue
Schedonorus arundinaceus · Cool-season, Perennial, C3 grass, highly well-adapted to the transition zone
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Pooideae, tribe Poeae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass and Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Kentucky-31 (K-31) and various turf-type cultivars like Rebel or Titan
Hardiness Zones
Thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 9, exhibiting excellent heat and cold tolerance, making it a staple of the transition zone
About This Grass
Forms a deep green, coarse-textured, and dense turf stand. Height ranges from 2 to 4 inches when maintained as a lawn, but can grow much taller if unmowed. Displays good year-round color in moderate climates and moderate green color during summer heat.
Blade Characteristics
Coarse to medium blade width (4-8mm), flat shape with prominent parallel veins on the upper surface, pointed tips, rolled in the bud (vernation), membranous ligule, and absent or small auricles
Root System
Deep, extensive fibrous root system going down several feet, providing exceptional drought tolerance and making it slow to establish from seed compared to ryegrass
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Europe, widely naturalized and cultivated across North America and temperate regions worldwide
Growth Habit
Bunch-type growth habit with short rhizomes, forming dense clumps and a moderately uniform turf when seeded heavily
Sunlight & Water Needs
Performs best in full sun but has good partial shade tolerance. Requires moderate watering once established, with high drought tolerance due to its deep root system
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal mowing height is 2.5 to 4 inches. Mowing frequency is regular during active spring and fall growth periods. Medium maintenance level with moderate fertilizer needs
Special Characteristics
Exceptional traffic and wear tolerance, good disease resistance, moderate salt tolerance, excellent drought recovery, and strong erosion control capabilities
Ecological Information
Introduced species widely used for soil stabilization and turf. Provides limited wildlife habitat compared to native prairies, but serves as a durable ground cover that minimizes soil erosion and runoff