NC State Extension Publications

Description

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Fine fescue (Festuca sp. and ssp.) species include creeping red (Festuca rubra), chewings (Festuca rubra ssp. commutata Gaudin), hard (Festuca ovina L.), and sheep fescue (Festuca brevipila Tracey). All fine-leaf fescues are bunch-type grasses except creeping red fescue, which is rhizomatous. Fine fescues are some of the most fine-textured turfgrasses available. Due to their superb shade tolerance and ability to recuperate from stresses, fine fescues are often mixed with tall fescue to enhance performance in shady areas.

Lawn Maintenance

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Species Data

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  • SEEDHEAD / FLOWER
    • panicle; seedhead is a closed, coarse panicle
  • VERNATION TYPE
    • leaves folded in the bud
  • LIGULE TYPE
  • GROWTH SEASON / LIFE CYCLE
    • cool season turf
  • AURICLE TYPE
    • absent
  • LEAF BLADE TIP SHAPE
    • sharp-pointed; bristle-like with whitish cast, deeply ridged on inner surface
      Figure 4, Figure 5
  • STOLON PRESENCE
    • absent
  • RHIZOME PRESENCE
    • absent except in creeping red fescue; red fescue rhizomes are slender and short
  • COLLAR TYPE
    • indistinct, divided in some species, continuous in others
  • SHEATH MARGIN
    • open
Fine fescue ligule

Figure 1. Fine fescue ligule.

Fine fescue ligule

Figure 2. Fine fescue ligule.

Fine fescue ligule

Figure 3. Fine fescue ligule.

Fine fescue leaf blade

Figure 4. Fine fescue leaf blade.

Fine fescue leaf blade

Figure 5. Fine fescue leaf blade.

Author

Professor & Extension Specialist
Crop & Soil Sciences

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Publication date: Aug. 22, 2022

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