Blue Fescue, Sheeps Fescue (Festuca glauca)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Ornamental Grass

Blue Fescue, Sheeps Fescue
Festuca glauca

Blue Fescue <em>Festuca glauca</em>
Blue Fescue Festuca glauca
 
Features

Clump forming, fine textured blue-green foliage. Tends to be semievergren. Flowers are not significant. Good accent plant.

This is a clump forming cool season grass.

 
 
Culture

Plant grows best in full sun in very well-drained soil. During hot summers plant will go dormant unless kept watered.

 
 
Cultivars

Over 19 cultivars available. Some to consider are:

'Elijah Blue' 8" bright silver blue foliage

'Boulder Blue' 12" soft powder blue

'Superba' 10" one of the best blue foliaged fescues

'Golden Toupee' 10" golden yellow foliage

 
 
Mature Height
6-10 Inches
 
Size
 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
4 - 8 
 
Soil Conditions
Dry
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Sun
 
 
Foliage Color
Silver/White
 
 
Pests and Problems

Environmental Damage


Additional pests and problems that may affect this plant:

Plants demand excellent drainage. Root rots possible in heavy wet soil.

 
Additional Notes
Blue fescues must have very sharp drainage otherwise they become very short lived in the garden. In spring clean out old foliage prior to new growth starting. After flowering remove flowers as they add little to the overall appearance. Using landscape gravel around the plants helps to keep the crown dry and plants in better condition.

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic