Cock's-foot
elymus caninus
Also known as: ["Cock's-foot grass","Bearded couch","Dog's tail grass"]
Overview
A perennial grass species native to Europe and Asia, known for its tufted growth habit and distinctive bearded seed heads.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Elymus |
| Botanical Name: | Elymus caninus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Grasses
- Suitable Location: meadows, grasslands, or open areas with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"−20–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderate to well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with amendments.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in late winter/early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or overgrown stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day; adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; place in dappled shade during peak summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct sun on leaves.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; tolerates cold winters; prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F); heat tolerant but may struggle above 85°F.
Protect from frost in early spring; ensure good air circulation in heat; avoid sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization; apply before new growth emerges.
Propagation
Methods
Division or seed; division is faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps into sections with roots.
- Replant immediately.
- Water well.
- Sow seeds in trays, keep moist, and thin seedlings.
Best Time: Early spring or autumn when the plant is dormant or just beginning growth.
Environment
Moderate humidity, indirect light, and consistent moisture for seeds; division requires minimal care.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with compost or peat moss.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; optional for seeds.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; seeds: germination in 2–4 weeks, maturity in 1–2 years.
Tools Needed
Garden fork, sharp knife, pruning shears, seed trays.
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor; use fresh seeds for best germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back dead foliage; thin overcrowded stems to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Inspect for dead/damaged growth; sanitize tools; prune selectively; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if crowded; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Not typically required for outdoor plants; container-grown plants may need repotting every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
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 in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration; rarely fatal due to hardiness.
Solution: Provide winter mulch for insulation; avoid overwatering in cold; protect from harsh winds.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced vigor, and potential dormancy.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer/autumn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicElymus caninus is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicElymus caninus is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicElymus caninus is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal circumstances. It is generally considered safe for human contact and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Elymus caninus toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Cock's-foot grass require much maintenance?
A: No, it is very low maintenance and highly tolerant of various conditions.
Q: What are the common uses of Elymus caninus?
A: It is often used in landscaping for its ornamental value and as a wildlife attractant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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