Alopecurus pratensis
meadow foxtail
A native grass found throughout the British Isles, forming leafy clumps up to 1m high. Dense, cylindrical flowerheads, produced in May and June, are soft to the touch and tapered. Conspicuous purple stamens provide pollen for bees and other insects
Other common names
blackgrassfoxtail grass
see moregolden foxtail
meadow foxtail
mountain foxtail
cynffonwellt y maes
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Poaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Tufted
- Genus
Alopecurus can be annual or perennial grasses, forming a clump of linear leaves, with erect stems bearing dense, spike-like panicles of small flowers in late spring and summer
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe, N Africa, SW Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Found in damp meadows and pastures and other grassy places. Will grow in a wide range of situations but thrives in moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Grown as forage for livestock
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by division
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildflower meadow
- Wildlife gardens
Pruning
No pruning required. Can cut back old foliage in early spring
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to rust or leaf spot, but generally disease-free
Get involved
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