Tall Fescue
Schedonorus arundinaceus · Cool-season, Perennial, C3 grass, highly adapted to transition zones
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass, Pasture, and Erosion Control
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 9, highly suited for the transition zone.
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Pooideae
Variety / Cultivar
Kentucky 31 (KY-31) and turf-type cultivars like 'Rebel' series
About This Grass
Coarse-textured, deep green turfgrass forming a dense sod. Grows up to 2-4 feet if unmowed, but maintained at 2-3 inches. Features prominent coarse blades and deep root systems.
Blade Characteristics
Medium to coarse width (4-8mm), flat shape, pointed tip, dark green color, rolled in the bud (vernation), prominent parallel veins on the upper surface.
Root System
Extremely deep fibrous root system (up to 4-6 feet), moderate establishment speed, low-to-moderate thatch tendency, highly drought tolerant due to depth.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Europe, widely naturalized and cultivated throughout North America
Growth Habit
Bunch-type grass with short rhizomes, forming dense clumps and moderate turf density
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to moderate shade. Requires moderate watering once established. Tolerates drought very well due to deep roots. Prefers well-drained clay or loam soils with pH 5.5-6.5.
Mowing & Maintenance
Mow at 2.5 to 4 inches. Medium maintenance level. Requires 2-4 lbs N per 1,000 sq ft annually. Aeration and overseeding needed periodically.
Special Characteristics
High traffic and wear tolerance, good heat and drought tolerance for a cool-season grass, moderate shade tolerance, excellent erosion control.
Ecological Information
Introduced species, provides good wildlife forage and cover, excellent soil stabilization and water infiltration due to deep root system.