Bulbous Barley
hordeum bulbosum
Also known as: ["Bulbous Barley","Wild Barley"]
Overview
A perennial grass species with bulbous root structures, native to Europe and parts of Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Hordeum |
| Botanical Name: | Hordeum bulbosum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Grasses
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when foliage turns yellow/brown.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) in spring and summer; partial shade during intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for nutrients.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cold down to 20°F (-6°C) when dormant.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent cool conditions during dormancy.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Division of bulbs or seeds.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate bulbs carefully.
- Plant at the same depth as the parent.
- Water lightly.
- Maintain consistent moisture.
Best Time: Early spring before active growth begins.
Environment
Warm (65–70°F or 18–21°C), humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not necessary for bulb division; optional for seeds.
Timeline
Bulbs establish quickly in 2–4 weeks; seeds may take 3–6 weeks to germinate.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, clean pots, well-draining soil, watering can.
Quick Tips
Divide bulbs when overcrowded; use fresh seed-starting mix for seeds; keep soil consistently moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead leaves at the base with clean, sharp scissors.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health.
Tools
Sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Remove dead foliage; sanitize tools; avoid cutting healthy growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when bulbs become crowded; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Choose a new pot; prepare fresh soil; handle bulbs carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage, and continue until water drains freely from the pot or soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring and fall, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter, and increasing to every 5–7 days in summer.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause root damage if soil freezes, and can lead to dieback in severe cases.
Solution: Insulate pots with bubble wrap; move to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Causes leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHordeum bulbosum is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicHordeum bulbosum is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicHordeum bulbosum is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hordeum bulbosum edible?
A: While related to cultivated barley, Hordeum bulbosum is not typically grown for human consumption.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it can attract bees and other pollinators.
Q: How should I care for Hordeum bulbosum?
A: It requires low maintenance, prefers full sun to partial shade, and is drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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