Turf-type Tall Fescue

Tall fescue is the second most common type of grass used for lawns in the Colorado Springs area. It is a deep-rooted, cool season, turfgrass with thick and broad, deep green leaves.

Tall fescue is a good choice for lawn areas that receive moderate to high foot traffic. It differs from Kentucky bluegrass in that it will remain greener when watered two times per week.

The older cultivars have blades that are wider than those of Kentucky Bluegrass, but the newer cultivars have thinner leaves. Tall fescue cannot survive long periods of time (months) without supplemental water.

Turf-type Tall Fescue

Tall fescue is the second most common type of grass used for lawns in the Colorado Springs area. It is a deep-rooted, cool season, turfgrass with thick and broad, deep green leaves.

Tall fescue is a good choice for lawn areas that receive moderate to high foot traffic. It differs from Kentucky bluegrass in that it will remain greener when watered two times per week.

The older cultivars have blades that are wider than those of Kentucky Bluegrass, but the newer cultivars have thinner leaves. Tall fescue cannot survive long periods of time (months) without supplemental water.

Plant details
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Botanic Name

Festuca arundinacea

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Pronunciation

fes-TOO-kuh a-run-din-uh-SEE-uh

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Mature Height

3 in. mowed, otherwise up to 3 feet

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Mature Spread

less than 6 inches

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Water usage
Water Usage

One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.

Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.

Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.

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Flower Color

not grown for blooms

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Bloom time

inconspicuous

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Colorado Native

No

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Natural Habitat

species is native to Europe

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Light Requirements

sun

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Cold Hardiness

USDA zones 4-7

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Elevation Limit

hardy to 8,000 ft.

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