Family: Poaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Festuca californica (California fescue) is a perennial bunchgrass native to western North America, especially California. It forms clumps of fine, arching blue-green leaves and produces tall flowering stems. This species is adapted to dry, shaded environments such as woodlands and is commonly used in landscaping for its drought tolerance, ornamental appeal, and ability to help stabilize soils.

Risks & Threats
Although Festuca californica is not currently known to be naturalized in the Hawaiian Islands, it has traits that raise concern. It can produce abundant seeds and form dense clumps that may outcompete native plants. Its adaptability to different conditions increases its potential to spread, and if introduced, it could negatively impact native ecosystems.

High Risk Traits:

• Broad climate suitability, and elevation range exceeds 1000 m, demonstrating environmental versatility
  
• Other Festuca species are invasive
  
• Shade tolerant
  
• Tolerates many soil types
  
• May form dense cover in certain habitats (ability to exclude other vegetation unknown)
  
• Reproduces by seeds
  
• Reaches maturity in second year
  
• Seeds dispersed by wind, possibly by water, and intentionally by people
  
• Gaps in biological and ecological information may reduce accuracy of risk prediction

Low Risk Traits:

• No reports of invasiveness or naturalization, but no evidence of widespread introduction outside native range
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
  
• Palatable to grazing animals (particularly horses)
  
• Valued restoration and ornamental grass within native range
  
• Not reported to spread vegetatively