Tall Fescue

Festuca arundinacea

Tall fescue is a deep-rooted, cool-season perennial grass that grows vigorously in the spring and fall. It can adapt to a wide variety of growing conditions and its extensive root system helps it withstand drought or flooding. Stems have broad, dark green basal leaves. Leaf blades are glossy on the underside and serrated on the margins, measuring 1/2 inch wide and 4 to 24 inches long. Depending on the soil nitrogen level, leaves can be yellowish to dark green in color. Tall fescue can grow to heights of 3 to 4 feet. The endophyte fungus is closely associated with tall fescue and can cause major health problems in animals that consume the grass.