Hare's-Tail Grass

lagurus ovatus

Also known as: ["Bunny Tail Grass","Lagurus Grass"]

Family: Poaceae Genus: Lagurus Category: Grasses

Overview

A delicate, ornamental grass with fluffy, bunny-tail-like seed heads, native to the Mediterranean region.

Benefits & Perks

["aesthetic foliage","seasonal color change","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Liliopsida
Order: Poales
Family: Poaceae
Genus: Lagurus
Botanical Name: Lagurus ovatus

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Grasses
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Indoor Plant Lovers Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates full sun with adequate water in cooler climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or overwatering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct midday sun.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix of potting soil and sand; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Plant in moist medium.
  4. Keep warm and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 1–2 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining mix.

Quick Tips

Use clean tools; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushier growth; trim stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.

Checklist

Prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target the root zone precisely.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water lightly once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or drying out; reduced vigor in extreme heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently if in full sun.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Lagurus ovatus may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Lagurus ovatus can result from water stress, either due to under or overwatering, root damage, or pest infestations, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Lagurus ovatus may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency, premature leaf drop, and potential spread to other parts of the plant.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Lagurus ovatus due to excessive moisture or fungal pathogens, leading to decay, loss of structural integrity, and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Lagurus ovatus is not toxic to cats. The plant does not pose any known risks to felines.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are necessary for cats that may come into contact with or ingest this plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Lagurus ovatus is not toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain any known compounds that are harmful to canines.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are necessary for dogs that may come into contact with or ingest this plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Lagurus ovatus, commonly known as hare's-tail grass, is not considered toxic to humans. It is generally safe for consumption in small quantities, though it is primarily used as an ornamental plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are necessary for human handling or consumption of this plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Lagurus ovatus toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: How should I care for Lagurus ovatus indoors?

A: Provide bright, indirect light, well-draining soil, and water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.

Q: Does Lagurus ovatus attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds, making it a good choice for wildlife gardens.

Quick Reference
Family: Poaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","indoor plant lovers","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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