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Festuca Altissima

Festuca Altissima

Description

Festuca Altissima, commonly known as tall fescue, is a cool-season perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to Europe, but it has been widely cultivated in North America and other parts of the world. This plant is a popular choice for landscaping and pasture because of its durability, adaptability, and low maintenance requirements.

Taxonomic Information

Domain Eukarya
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Spermatophyta
Class Monocotyledonae
Order Poales
Family Poaceae
Genus Festuca

Appearance

Tall fescue can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. It has flat, dark green leaves that are about 1/4 inch wide and can be rough to the touch. The leaves are arranged in a dense, clumping pattern that forms a rounded mound. In the summer, tall fescue produces tall, slender flower spikes that can grow up to 6 feet tall. The flowers are greenish-purple and turn brown as they mature.

Care Guide

Water

Tall fescue requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth.

Fertilization

Tall fescue benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring and fall to provide the plant with the nutrients it needs to thrive.

Soil

Tall fescue prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.

Sunlight

Tall fescue grows best in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can lead to thinning and reduced growth.

Hardiness Zones

Tall fescue is hardy in USDA zones 4-7. It can tolerate cold temperatures and is well-suited for cooler climates.

Common Pests & Diseases

Tall fescue is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to some common problems, including:

Brown Patch

This fungal disease causes circular patches of brown, dead grass. It is most common in humid weather and can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and improving air circulation.

Armyworms

These caterpillars can eat through large areas of grass, leaving behind brown patches. They can be controlled with insecticides or by using natural predators like birds and beneficial insects.

Habitat

Tall fescue is found in a variety of habitats, including open fields, meadows, and roadsides. It is commonly used for landscaping and pasture, as well as for erosion control and reclamation of disturbed areas.

Question and Answer

Q: Is tall fescue a good choice for a low-maintenance lawn?

A: Yes, tall fescue is a popular choice for low-maintenance lawns because it requires less watering and fertilization than other grasses.

Q: Can tall fescue be grown in containers?

A: Yes, tall fescue can be grown in containers, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization.

Q: Does tall fescue attract wildlife?

A: Yes, tall fescue can attract wildlife like deer, rabbits, and birds.

Q: How often should tall fescue be mowed?

A: Tall fescue should be mowed to a height of 2-3 inches every 7-10 days during the growing season.

Related Plants

  • Festuca Glauca
  • Festuca Rubra
  • Festuca Ovina
  • Festuca Gigantea

References

  • “Tall Fescue.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a394.
  • “Tall Fescue.” University of Illinois Extension, extension.illinois.edu/turf/turfgrass-species/tall-fescue.
  • “Tall Fescue.” Virginia Cooperative Extension, www.pubs.ext.vt.edu/content/dam/pubs_ext_vt_edu/430/430-010/430-010_pdf.pdf.

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