Poa pratensis aka Smooth Meadow Grass

Poa pratensis is a perennial grass known as Kentucky bluegrass. It also goes by the name smooth meadow grass. It belongs to the grass family, Poaceae. Its native range includes Europe and northern Asia. It also grows naturally in mountains across northern Africa. It is native to Britain and Ireland. It grows in meadows, other grassy sites, and dunes. It suits cool climates and grows through the cool season.

This grass spreads through underground stems called rhizomes. These join with its roots to make dense turf. Uncut plants reach about 2 feet [0.61 metres] tall. Sources give a spread of about 0.5 feet [0.15 metres]. Rhizomes let a patch spread beyond that width. Mown lawn grass stays much shorter, around 0.25 feet [0.08 metres]. The narrow, soft leaves range from medium to dark green. Each blade ends in a tip shaped like a boat. Most leaves grow near the base of the plant. A few wrap around the smooth, green stems. Stems stand upright or lean along the ground.

Small flowers appear from May to July when left uncut. They form loose, branched clusters called panicles. Each small spikelet holds three to five florets. These can look purple-green or grey. The spikelets turn tan as they dry. The florets fall, leaving their outer husks behind. The grain-like fruits, called caryopses, contain brown or golden seeds. The flowers add little colour to a lawn.

Grow it in fertile soil that drains well but stays moist. Full sun suits it in spring and autumn. Afternoon shade helps during hot summers in warmer regions. It prefers neutral to slightly acid soil. It also grows in loam and clay. Sources list USDA hardiness zones 3–7. Lawn care calls for regular water, feeding, and mowing. Heat above 90°F, with drought, can turn it brown. Growth may slow as the grass enters partial dormancy.

Kentucky bluegrass serves lawns, parks, cemeteries, golf courses, and sports fields. Its dense turf stands up to foot traffic. Its spreading growth can also make it weedy. Summer patch is a major disease risk. Other fungal problems include rust, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. Grubs, billbugs, cutworms, and sod webworms can cause damage. Evidence for human food use is weak and unclear. One report suggests possible edibility but gives no firm details. Plants For A Future lists no known hazards or medicinal uses.