Lolium perenne

Cool-season perennial bunchgrass

Grows actively in spring and fall, may struggle in hot summers

5–8 hours of full sun daily (tolerates partial shade but prefers full sun)

50–65°F (10–18°C)

Well-draining, fertile loam or clay loam

3–7 (USDA)

Fast, typically within 5–10 days under optimal conditions

5.5–7.5

It requires consistent moisture, especially during establishment. Apply at least 1 inch of water per week during dry periods to maintain growth and color

Apply nitrogen-rich fertilizer in early spring and fall

Low-growing, tufted, hairless grass with a bunching (or tillering) growth habit

12–24 inches (in unmowed conditions)

As a bunch-type grass, it spreads through tillering rather than horizontal growth

To ensure even coverage, sow lawns at 3 to 5 pounds per 1,000 square feet

Produces small, inconspicuous flowers in spike-like seed heads (typically mowed before flowering in lawns)

Not a major attractor for pollinators but can provide cover for small wildlife

Ideal for lawns, overseeding, erosion control, and pasture; valued for quick establishment and wear tolerance

Not necessary but can be combined with Kentucky bluegrass, fine fescues, and tall fescue (often mixed for turf applications)

Begin mowing when the grass reaches about 3 inches tall, cutting it back to 2 inches (for home lawns). Avoid removing more than one-third of the leaf blade per mowing

Non-toxic to humans and pets but can cause issues if infected with endophytes (toxic to livestock)

Susceptible to billbugs, armyworms, cutworms, and sod webworms

Prone to brown patch, gray leaf spot, rust, red thread, and Pythium blight

Perennial ryegrass is favored on sports fields and golf courses due to its rapid germination and quick recovery from wear