Meadow Fescue • Festuca pratensis
Grasses
Conditions: Allergic rhinitis; allergic asthma; allergic conjunctivitis.
Symptoms: Itchy, stuffy, or runny nose; post-nasal drip; sneezing; itchy, red or watery eyes; asthmatic symptoms.
Physical description: Robust, bunch-type perennial grass that is coarse in texture; grows between 8-30 inches in height; has dark green leaves3 Environmental factors: Wind-pollinated; grows best in open and damp places such as roadsides, creeks, meadows, and pastures.
Cross-reactivity: Extensive cross-reactivity among members of the festuca genus, as well as other grasses such as rye, canary, and Timothy.
References
- “Meadow.”Merriam-Webster. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/meadow
- “Fescue.”Merriam-Webster. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fescue
- “Plants Profile for Schedonorous pratensis (meadow fescue).” USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SCPR4
- “Meadow Fescue, Festuca pratensis Cyperales Poaceae.” Invasive.org. https://www.invasive.org/browse/subinfo.cfm?sub=5956
Did You Know?
In addition to being cross-reactive with a number of grasses, meadow fescue has also been shown to be cross-reactive with Kiwi fruit. That’s an important thing for people with meadow fescue allergies to keep in mind when they’re deciding on what products to buy!
