Tall Fescue (Lolium arundinaceum, formerly Festuca arundinacea) is a robust, cool-season perennial grass widely used in pastoral systems for grazing, hay, and erosion control. Also known simply as Fescue, it is native to Europe and North Africa but has become extensively naturalized in North America and other temperate regions. It thrives in a range of habitats, including meadows, pastures, roadsides, and riparian zones, and is valued for its adaptability to various soil types and climates.

This grass forms dense clumps with broad, coarse leaves and tall, upright stems that can reach over a meter in height. Its deep root system contributes to drought resistance and soil stabilization, making it an important species in both agriculture and land management.

Tall Fescue is notable for its hardiness and long growing season. Some strains contain endophytes—beneficial fungi—that enhance pest resistance and vigor, though certain endophytes can affect livestock health if not managed properly.