Generally the fescues are smaller sized grasses, of mountains, plains and meadows. Over 350 species spread worldwide, in cooler climes. Preferring full sun and lighter soils. In cultivation some are grown for their compact colourful foliage, particularly those derived from the F. glauca from southern France.
Fescues are one of the main food plants for the larvae of two butterflies, meadow brown and small heath, and overwintering tussocks, especially if not trimmed in the autumn, are important, sheltered hibernation sites for many beneficial insects such as ladybirds.