Tall Fescue (mixed with broadleaf weed)
Schedonorus arundinaceus · Cool-season, Perennial, C3 grass, highly adaptable to the transition zone
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Pooideae, tribe Poeae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass and Pasture Grass
Variety / Cultivar
Standard turf-type tall fescue blend
Hardiness Zones
Thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 9, exhibiting exceptional tolerance to both summer heat and winter cold within the transition zone.
About This Grass
Forms a moderately dense, upright bunch-type turf with medium-coarse texture and a rich dark green color. Reaches heights up to 2-4 feet if left unmowed. Features open panicle seed heads at maturity.
Blade Characteristics
Blades are medium-coarse (4-8mm wide), flat with prominent parallel veins on the upper surface and a shiny underside. Vernation is rolled in the bud. Ligule is a short membrane, and auricles are small and blunt.
Root System
Deep, extensive fibrous root system reaching depths of 2-3 feet, allowing for excellent drought resistance and moderate establishment speed. Forms a less dense sod than Kentucky bluegrass.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Europe, widely naturalized and cultivated across North America
Growth Habit
Bunch-type grass with short, underground rhizomes providing a slightly spreading habit
Sunlight & Water Needs
Performs best in full sun to partial shade, requiring a minimum of 4-6 hours of direct sunlight. Moderate water needs once established, with high drought tolerance due to deep roots.
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal mowing height is 2.5 to 4 inches. Requires regular mowing during the growing season, low to moderate fertilization (2-4 lbs N per 1000 sq ft annually), and occasional overseeding. Medium maintenance level.
Special Characteristics
High traffic and wear tolerance, good resistance to most common turf diseases, moderate shade and drought tolerance, and deep root system provides good erosion control.
Ecological Information
Introduced species with high utility for erosion control, wildlife cover, and turf applications. Acts as a robust competitor against weeds when properly maintained.