It probably was brought to this country in early Colonial days. It is now so widely distributed throughout the Northern and Central States that its origin is questionable. The grass is long-lived, with underground rhizomes, resulting in dense sods. It becomes semidormant during hot, dry periods. The seed stems reach up to 24 inches high.
Leaves are abundant, long, medium in width, and blunt at the terminal.
It is a highly palatable pasture grass and is also extensively used for lawns and turf. It is readily established by seeding. Numerous varieties are in commercial use.