This perennial bunchgrass has upright arching stems with visible nodes and form a loose clump. It has narrow blue green grass-like leaves that are upright then arching and the yellowish flowers appear in a spike above the foliage from early to mid-spring.

Hardiness zones 7 to 11

Festuca californica is naturally found in western North America from California to Oregon growing in mixed evergreen forests, yellow pine forests and Chaparral from sea level to an attitude of 1,800 m (5,905 ft). It is commonly seen in dry open ground along woodland margins or along water course embankments as a soil stabiliser. 

It prefers a semi-shaded to sunny position and it grows in dry to moist well-drained moderately fertile soil and his drought and severe frost tolerant.

California Fescue is grown for its attractive foliage and clumping habit. It is planted along front borders in small gardens or mass planted on embankments for soil stabilisation and as a ground cover. It is also planted around water features or grown in patio pots and planter boxes for colour contrast. 

It is suitable for coastal and low mountain regions and establishes in 2-3 years and is moderately long-lived. This perennial grass is also planted in the understory in woodland settings or used in roof gardens tolerating neglect once established. ID 3329

Festuca (fes-TOO-ka)  californica (kal-ih-FOR-nik-uh)

Poaceae (poh_AY-see-ee)
Grass Family