Title: Cluster fescue (Festuca paradoxa Desv.): A multipurpose native cool-season grass

Author: Navarrete-Tindall, Nadia E.; Van Sambeek, J.W.; Pierce, R.A.

Year: 2005

Publication: In: Barnes, T.D.; Kiesel,L.R., eds. Proceedings of the 4th eastern native grass symposium; 2004 October 3-6; Lexington, KY. [Publisher unknown]: 116-121.

Abstract: Native cool-season grasses (NCSG) are adapted to a wide range of habitats and environmental conditions, and cluster fescue (Festuca paradoxa Desv.) is no exception. Cluster fescue can be found in unplowed upland prairies, prairie draws, savannas, forest openings, and glades (Aiken et al. 1996). Although its range includes 23 states in the continental United States, it is rarely abundant in natural stands. Cluster fescue is found scattered in some states such as Arkansas and Missouri (Yaskievych 1999); however, it occurs less frequently in Iowa, is listed of special concern in Tennessee, and is listed as endangered in Indiana, Maryland, and Pennsylvania (Natural Resources Conservation Service 2004).