Western fescue (Festuca occidentalis, Fl. Bor.-Amer. 2: 249 (1840))

Family: Poaceae

Author: Hook.

Bibliography: Fl. Bor.-Amer. 2: 249 (1840)

Year: 1840

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Festuca

Vegetable: False

Observations: Alaska to N. & W. U.S.A.

Description

Western fescue, scientifically known as Festuca occidentalis, is a notable species within the Poaceae family. First described in Hooker’s “Flora Boreali-Americana” (Volume 2, Page 249) in 1840, this species has garnered attention for its distinctive characteristics and habitat range.

Native to North America, Western fescue demonstrates a resilient adaptability by thriving in regions from Alaska through to the northern and western United States. This broad geographical distribution highlights the plant’s ability to settle in diverse environmental conditions, ranging from the cold climates of Alaska to the varied terrains of the United States.

Western fescue is integral to these ecosystems, contributing to the ecological stability and offering ground cover that helps prevent soil erosion. As with many species in the Poaceae family, it is vital for the sustenance of local wildlife, providing both food and habitat.

Recognizing Western fescue involves observing its physical attributes characteristic of the Festuca genus. Its growth structure, leaf formation, and general morphology are intrinsic to its identification and classification within the extensive Poaceae family.

As a subject of botanical interest, Western fescue is often studied for its ecological role as well as its potential uses in agriculture and landscaping. By understanding its growth patterns and environmental preferences, researchers and horticulturists can better integrate this species into practices that support environmental sustainability and biodiversity.

The recognition and study of Festuca occidentalis by esteemed botanists since the 19th century underscore its significance. Continued research and conservation efforts are essential to safeguard this species, ensuring it continues to thrive within its native habitats and maintains its role in the broader ecological tapestry.

Common Names

Eng: western fescue
Fra: fétuque de l’ouest, fétuque occidentale
En: Western fescue
Ar: فستوكة غربية
Fr: Fétuque occidentale, Fétuque de l’Ouest

Synonyms

• Festuca ovina var. polyphylla (Beal)

Distribution

• Alaska (native)
• Alberta (native)
• British Columbia (native)
• California (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Montana (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Oregon (native)
• South Dakota (native)
• Utah (native)
• Washington (native)
• Wisconsin (native)
• Wyoming (native)

Additional Images

Habit

Taken Feb 3, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Feb 24, 2008 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Aug 20, 2011 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Aug 20, 2011 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Fruit

Taken Feb 3, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Aug 20, 2011 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Aug 20, 2011 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2705003)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:277172-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Festuca occidentalis Hook.)

Specifications

Growth form>: Bunch

Growth habit>: Graminoid

Growth rate>: Moderate

Growth

Ph maximum: 7.5

Ph minimum: 6.0