Foxtail Barley
hordeum jubatum
Also known as: ["Foxtail Barley","Seaside Barley","Fox Tail"]
Overview
A perennial grass species with distinctive, bushy, silvery seed heads that resemble a fox's tail.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Hordeum |
| Botanical Name: | Hordeum jubatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Grasses
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–40–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate air circulation to prevent fungal growth.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing in shaded corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormancy
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate cooler conditions but may struggle in extreme heat.
Monitor temperature changes; adjust watering and light accordingly; protect from sudden temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing if the plant shows signs of stress.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be used but may result in variable traits.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- 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 be propagated in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 4–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity for faster rooting; avoid direct sunlight during rooting phase.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean cuts to encourage branching; remove yellow or dead leaves.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased foliage.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or diseased parts; shape the plant; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the container; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply 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 soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips in extreme heat; mold or mildew in overly cool, damp conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration; prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can damage or kill the plant.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors during frost; use frost cloths or mulch to protect outdoor plants; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may become stunted; flowering may be reduced.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicSimilar to dogs, the main risk for cats is the penetration of sharp awns into the skin, ears, or respiratory tract, which can cause physical trauma and secondary infections. Ingestion of the plant material is not considered toxic but may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or if sharp parts penetrate skin
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe primary concern with Hordeum jubatum for dogs is the presence of sharp, barbed awns that can penetrate the skin, ears, or nasal passages, leading to physical injury and potential infection. Ingestion of the plant material is generally not toxic but may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or if sharp parts penetrate skin
Humans
Non-toxicHordeum jubatum, commonly known as Foxtail Barley, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is not known to produce any significant toxic compounds that would cause adverse health effects upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Foxtail Barley invasive?
A: It can spread aggressively in some conditions but is generally manageable in gardens.
Q: Does Foxtail Barley require much water?
A: No, it is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in dry conditions.
Q: Does Foxtail Barley attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts birds and small mammals that feed on its seeds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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