Kentucky Bluegrass
Poa pratensis · Cool-season, Perennial, C3
Grass Family
Poaceae, Pooideae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf, Parks, and Sports Turf
Variety / Cultivar
Standard Kentucky Bluegrass (mixed 'Common' or 'Elite' types)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 2-7; excellent cold tolerance, poor heat tolerance in the deep South.
About This Grass
A medium-textured, high-density grass with a characteristic deep blue-green color. In the provided image, the grass shows dormancy (tan/straw color) due to heat or drought stress, interspersed with green patches that suggest uneven irrigation or mixed species such as Fescue.
Blade Characteristics
Fine to medium width (2-4mm), V-shaped or flat, distinguished by a 'boat-shaped' tip and a prominent central vein (midrib). Folded vernation, short membranous ligule, and no auricles.
Root System
Relatively shallow fibrous root system compared to fescue, but forms a thick, self-healing sod via aggressive rhizomes. High thatch-forming tendency.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Europe, Northern Asia, and Morocco; naturalized throughout North America
Growth Habit
Rhizomatous (spreading via underground stems), forming a dense sod
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun preferred (at least 6-8 hours); moderate to high water needs. Low drought resistance (enters dormancy quickly) but high drought recovery.
Mowing & Maintenance
1.5 to 3.0 inches; requires frequent mowing during spring/fall peaks. 2-5 lbs Nitrogen per 1000 sq ft annually. High maintenance level.
Special Characteristics
Excellent wear tolerance and recovery due to rhizomes. Susceptible to Summer Patch and Necrotic Ring Spot. Poor shade tolerance.
Ecological Information
Introduced and naturalized in North America. Provides soil stabilization and filtration. Can be invasive in native meadows but is a staple companion for Perennial Ryegrass and Tall Fescue blends.