Hordeum jubatum
Hordeum jubatum
foxtail barley
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Common Names
foxtail barleysquirrel-tail grass
Context
nativeRegion
North America (widespread, especially western and northern regions)
usdaZones
3-8
companionPlants
Elymus canadensis, Bouteloua gracilis, Achillea millefolium
culturalUses
Primarily ornamental for its airy plumes; used for erosion control and habitat restoration.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun is ideal, but tolerates light shade.
WateringDrought-tolerant when established; prefers moderate watering, especially in dry spells.
SoilPrefers sandy, well-drained soils but tolerates clay and saline conditions.
FertilizerGenerally not needed; too much fertility can reduce ornamental appeal.
HumidityAdaptable; handles dry to moderate humidity well.
TemperatureCold-hardy, tolerant of a wide range of temperate climates.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitBunchgrass; grassy, tufted perennial or short-lived annual.
Mature Size30-60 cm (1-2 ft) tall.
Growth RateFast-growing, can self-seed readily.
BloomingFlowers in late spring to early summer; produces distinctive, feathery seed heads.
DormancyDeciduous; dies back or slows in winter.
Propagation
MethodsSeed
DifficultyEasy
Best SeasonSpring or fall
Maintenance & Notes
PruningCut back old foliage in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth.
RepottingRarely needed for landscape use.
Pests & DiseasesGenerally pest- and disease-free; may occasionally host rust or smut fungi.
ToxicityNon-toxic, but long barbed awns may cause issues for grazing animals.
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