Some facts about Foxtail barley, Hordeum jubatum
Appearance:
Foxtail barley is a perennial grass native to North America, but it can also be found in many other parts of the world. It has slender stems that grow 1 to 2 feet tall and clump together to form bunches. The most recognizable feature is its seed head, which resembles a fox’s tail. The seed heads are green or purple when they first emerge, and they turn tan or brown as they mature.
Habitat:
Foxtail barley can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. It thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. It is drought-tolerant but can also grow in wet meadows and along streams. This adaptability makes it a successful colonizer and it can sometimes be considered a weed.
Uses:
Foxtail barley is not a major agricultural crop, but it is a valuable food source for wildlife, especially in the early spring before other food sources become available. The seeds can also be used as a grain and can be ground into flour. Foxtail barley is also a popular ornamental grass, prized for its attractive seed heads and low-maintenance requirements.
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