Hordeum jubatum is known as Squirrel-tail Grass due to the squirrel-tail tuffed end. It may also be called Foxtail Barley. The grass is short-lived and is best suited to full sun and drier conditions. It grows actively during the spring and fall when soil temperatures are cool.

Reclamation/re-vegetation: Squirreltail displays many qualities which make it a good choice for what has been described as “assisted succession.” It is a short-lived perennial grass which can act as an early-seral species by competing with and replacing annual weedy species following fire.

Outside of Illinois, this grass is widely distributed in both North America and Eurasia. Habitats include edges of marshes, muddy borders along puddles, poorly drained fields, pastures, vacant lots with compacted soil, gravelly areas along roads and …

It is a slender grass, blooming in early summer, and recognized by the many long awns which spread stiffly from the pike. These shining awns, often tinged with rose and lavender, are of great beauty and glisten with metallic lustre.

Bottlebrush squirreltail, Elymus elymoides, is a cool-season native perennial bunchgrass. The plant grows 8-25 inches tall, and occurs primarily on dry, gravelly or saline soils and is common on hillsides and alkaline flats. The stiff, involute leaf blades expand up to 3/16 of an inch in width and often become smooth or softly pubescent.

Commonly known as Foxtail Barley or Squirrel Tail Grass, Horduem Jubatum is a perennial prairie grass that produces attractive flower heads. It self-sows readily, but its seedlings are shallow-rooted and easy to remove if unwanted.

The seed heads of this native grass have a needle-like bristle or awn at the tip of each seed, which can be dangerous for livestock and pets because they can work their way into the animals’ mouth, nose, eyes, and digestive systems.

How to Grow Squirreltail Grass, Barley and other Members of the Hordeum Plant Genus in Your Garden. Gardener's HQ Growing Guides.

Hordeum jubatum features long, thin seed heads that resemble a squirrel's tail, adding a touch of whimsy to any landscape. Growing to a height of 1-2 feet, this grass thrives in well-drained soil and prefers full sun, making it an ideal addition to a sunny border or wildflower meadow.