Meadow Fescue
Schedonorus pratensis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
NE
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Schedonorus pratensis is a tall, upright perennial grass that forms dense clumps reaching 2-4 feet in height. It produces seed heads in late spring through summer and thrives in full sun with moderate water needs. This cool-season grass maintains good structure throughout the growing season.
In an HOA neighborhood
Meadow Fescue takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Height may exceed typical HOA grass standards
- Can appear too wild or unmaintained for formal landscapes
- Seed heads may be considered messy by conservative HOAs
Wildlife value
The grass flowers attract bees and beetles during its May through July bloom period. As a native grass, it provides habitat and nesting material for various wildlife species.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Meadow Fescue fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.