Gerald L. Klingaman
Family
Poaceae
Botanical Name
Festuca
Plant Common Name
Blue Fescue, Field Fescue
General Description
The genus Festuca comprises over 300 species and even more cultivated varieties. These may have annual or perennial life cycles, and spreading or bunched habits, depending on the given species. Fescues are broadly distributed across the globe, but most exist in North Temperate regions. Many species are grown as ornamental grasses for the lawn and garden, or for agricultural purposes, but many more exist as common weeds.
Fescues require full to part sun and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but most prefer average, slightly acidic soil with good drainage. Ornamental species, like the evergreen blue fescue (Festuca glauca) can be used in sunny borders, containers or rock gardens and look best when planted in masses.
Characteristics
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Plant Type
Grass
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun
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Native To
World/Pandemic
Growing Conditions
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Soil pH
Acidic, Neutral
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Soil Drainage
Average
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Soil type
Clay, Loam, Sand
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Habit
Clump-Forming
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Insignificant
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Flower Color
Green, Tan
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Fruit Color
Tan
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Fragrant Flowers
No
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Showy Fruit
No
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Edible Fruit
No
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Foliage Texture
Fine
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Foliage Sheen
Matte
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Showy Bark
No
Special Characteristics
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Usage
Edging, Groundcover, Lawns and Turf, Mixed Border, Rock Garden / Wall
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Sharp or Has Thorns
No
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Invasive
Sometimes
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Self-Sowing
Yes
