Plume Barley
hordeum pusillum
Also known as: ["Little Barley","Dwarf Barley"]
Overview
A small, annual grass species native to North America, characterized by its slender stems and delicate, feathery inflorescences.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Hordeum |
| Botanical Name: | Hordeum pusillum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: open fields, meadows, or as a border plant in gardens
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with some organic matter; can tolerate sandy soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a houseplant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; supplement with grow lights if needed.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate cooler nights.
Monitor temperature fluctuations; adjust watering in extreme heat or cold; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced NPK ratio.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; division can also be used for mature plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or divide clumps.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Transplant once established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining seed-starting mix or a mix of peat and perlite.
Hormone
Not required for seeds; rooting hormone may help for division.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 7–14 days; division may take 2–4 weeks to establish.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, sharp knife (for division), labels, watering can.
Quick Tips
Sow seeds shallowly; keep soil consistently moist; protect young plants from harsh conditions.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off unwanted growth with clean cuts; avoid cutting into healthy stems.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance.
Tools
Pruning shears or sharp scissors; disinfect tools before use.
Checklist
Identify dead/damaged parts; use clean tools; make precise cuts; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only if the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
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.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Can lead to scorching, wilting, or premature flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHordeum pusillum is not toxic to cats. This grass species does not contain any known toxic substances that would harm felines if ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicHordeum pusillum is not toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds in this plant that would pose a risk to canine health upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicHordeum pusillum, commonly known as slender wild oat, is not considered toxic to humans. It is a grass species and does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hordeum pusillum edible?
A: Yes, it is edible but not commonly cultivated for food.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is Hordeum pusillum considered a weed?
A: Yes, it is often classified as a weed due to its invasive nature in some regions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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