Kentucky Bluegrass
Poa pratensis · Cool-season, Perennial, C3 grass
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Pooideae, tribe Poeae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass
Variety / Cultivar
Likely a common turf-type blend such as 'Midnight' or 'Baron' based on dark green color and dense growth
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 2-7; excellent cold tolerance. Becomes dormant in summer heat or winter extreme cold.
About This Grass
A dense, low-growing turf grass with a rich emerald to dark blue-green color. It forms a lush, carpet-like mat and has a medium-to-fine texture with high shoot density.
Blade Characteristics
Narrow to medium blades (2-4mm), flat or slightly V-shaped, with a distinct boat-shaped tip. Vernation is folded in the bud; ligule is short and membranous; auricles are absent.
Root System
Relatively shallow but dense fibrous root system combined with strong rhizomes. High thatch tendency; moderate establishment speed from seed (2-3 weeks).
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Europe, Northern Asia, and the mountains of Morocco/Algeria; widely adapted to Northern US and Canada
Growth Habit
Rhizomatous (underground spreading). Forms a dense, self-repairing sod with a moderate rate of spread.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Prefers Full Sun (6+ hours); moderate shade tolerance. High water needs; enters dormancy during severe drought to survive. Prefers well-drained soil, pH 6.0-7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal height 2.0-3.5 inches; weekly mowing. Fertilization: 3-5 lbs N per 1000 sq ft/year. High maintenance; requires regular aeration and dethatching.
Special Characteristics
Excellent wear tolerance and recovery due to rhizomes. Susceptible to moderate leaf spot and necrotic ring spot. Highly prized for aesthetics in home lawns and golf fairways.
Ecological Information
Introduced/Naturalized in North America. Provides erosion control through dense sod; provides cover for small insects but limited forage value in high-mowed turf settings.