Festuca subulata, commonly known as bearded fescue or nodding fescue, is a perennial grass native to various habitats including moist mountain forests, meadows, and open woodlands in the northwestern quarter of North America, from Alaska to South Dakota and extending to northern California. It typically forms loose clumps with small rhizomes and reaches a height of 16 to 31 inches. Bearded fescue is characterized by its fine-textured, drooping blue-green leaves and its inflorescence consisting of loosely clustered spikelets that nod or droop, giving the plant its common name.

Bearded fescue is valued for its ability to thrive in cool climates and its adaptability to a range of soil types, though it prefers moist, well-drained soils. It is often used in naturalistic plantings, meadow gardens, and as an accent in rock gardens due to its graceful form and texture. While it prefers full sun to light shade, it is also tolerant of partial shade. Bearded fescue is relatively low maintenance, requiring minimal watering once established and is generally free from serious pests and diseases. However, it may require division every few years to rejuvenate clumps that become too dense.CC BY-SA 4.0