Tall Fescue
Festuca arundinacea (syn. Schedonorus arundinaceus) · Cool-season, Perennial, C3 grass (Tolerates transition zones)
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Pooideae, tribe Poeae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass, Sports Turf, Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Turf-Type Tall Fescue (TTTF), likely a blend of improved cultivars such as 'Rebel' or 'Falcon' series
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 4-9; excellent heat tolerance for a cool-season grass; remains green until hard frost.
About This Grass
A coarse-textured, deep-rooted grass forming a dense turf when seeded heavily. It maintains a dark green color throughout much of the year including winter in mild climates.
Blade Characteristics
Blade width 4-8mm (coarse/medium), tip is pointed, color is dark green. Vernation is rolled in the bud. Prominent veins on the upper surface and a dull underside with a distinct midrib. Ligule is short/membranous; auricles are small or absent.
Root System
Deep fibrous root system reach 2-3 feet deep. Low thatch tendency. Moderate establishment speed from seed; creates a very stable, durable sod.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Europe and North Africa; widely adapted to the Transition Zone of the United States
Growth Habit
Bunch-type (clump-forming) with limited short rhizomes in newer turf-type varieties
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to moderate shade; requires 4-6 hours of sun. Moderate water needs with high drought tolerance due to deep roots. Prefers pH 5.5 to 7.5.
Mowing & Maintenance
Mowing height 2.5-4.0 inches; weekly frequency. 2-4 lbs Nitrogen per 1000 sq ft annually. Low to medium maintenance level.
Special Characteristics
High wear tolerance, excellent drought resistance, good shade tolerance compared to other cool-season grasses, resistant to most common turf diseases.
Ecological Information
Introduced status in North America; used for soil stabilization on slopes; often blended with Kentucky Bluegrass for improved recovery.