Tall Fescue
Schedonorus arundinaceus · Cool-season, Perennial, C3 grass, highly well-adapted to the transition zone
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Pooideae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass and Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
General turf-type tall fescue (e.g., 'Rebel' series)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 9. Excellent heat and cold tolerance, thriving particularly well in the transition zone.
About This Grass
Forms a moderately coarse, upright clump with distinct flattened, reddish-purple lower stems visible at the base. Medium to dark green color with high density when properly managed.
Blade Characteristics
Medium to coarse width blades (4-8mm) with a flat shape, pointed tips, and prominent parallel veins on the upper surface. Rolled vernation in the bud, with a short membranous ligule and small or absent auricles.
Root System
Deep, extensive fibrous root system going down several feet, providing excellent drought tolerance and moderate wear recovery. Low thatch tendency.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Europe, widely cultivated throughout North America, especially in the transition zone
Growth Habit
Bunch-type grass forming moderate clumps, though newer turf-type varieties can have short rhizomes
Sunlight & Water Needs
Performs best in full sun to partial shade. Requires moderate watering once established, exhibiting superior drought tolerance compared to other cool-season grasses.
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal mowing height ranges from 2.5 to 4 inches. Medium maintenance level requiring regular mowing, moderate nitrogen fertilization, and occasional overseeding.
Special Characteristics
High traffic and wear tolerance, good resistance to major turf diseases, moderate shade and salt tolerance, and strong erosion control due to its deep root system.
Ecological Information
Introduced species widely used for soil stabilization and turf. Provides moderate wildlife habitat and can be grown in blends with Kentucky bluegrass.