California fescue (Festuca californica) is a fast-growing perennial grass. It grows in clumps that spray out from the center to 3 feet wide and can reach 4 feet tall. The rough leaves are narrow but long, hosting butterflies and moths.
California fescu is often used for revegetating grassland that has been cleared or claimed by non-native grasses. It prefers loamy or clay soils, grows poorly in sandy soils and tolerates serpentine soil. It grows in full sun or part shade and takes very low water. In summer, once established, it can be watered only 3 times per month.