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Description
Hordeum Jubatum, commonly known as Squirrel Tail Grass, is a species of annual grass that is native to North America. It belongs to the Poaceae family and is known for its attractive, fluffy seed heads that resemble a squirrel’s tail. The grass can grow up to 3 feet tall and 1 foot wide and is often used in ornamental gardens and landscaping.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Cyperales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Hordeum |
Appearance
Hordeum Jubatum has narrow, green leaves that grow up to 1 foot long and 1/4 inch wide. The grass produces clusters of fluffy, silver or purple seed heads that resemble a squirrel’s tail, which can grow up to 8 inches long. The seed heads are held on thin, arching stems that sway in the breeze, adding movement and texture to a garden or landscape.
Care Guide
To care for Hordeum Jubatum, it’s important to ensure the plant has adequate water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and is planted in the appropriate hardiness zone. Water: Squirrel Tail Grass prefers moist, well-drained soil and should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer during the growing season. Soil: Squirrel Tail Grass prefers rich, loamy soil that is slightly acidic. Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. Hardiness Zones: Hordeum Jubatum grows best in hardiness zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Squirrel Tail Grass is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can sometimes be affected by rust, a fungal disease that causes orange or yellow pustules to form on the leaves. The best way to prevent rust is to ensure the plant has proper air circulation and is not overcrowded.
Habitat
Hordeum Jubatum is native to North America and can be found growing in meadows, prairies, and open woodlands. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Hordeum Jubatum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Squirrel Tail Grass can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its root system and the plant is provided with adequate water and nutrients.
Q: How often should I fertilize Hordeum Jubatum?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer during the growing season.
Q: Does Hordeum Jubatum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the plant’s seed heads can attract birds and small animals.
Q: Is Hordeum Jubatum invasive?
A: No, Squirrel Tail Grass is not considered invasive.
Related Plants
- Hordeum brachyantherum (meadow barley)
- Hordeum vulgare (common barley)
- Hordeum murinum (wall barley)
References
- “Hordeum Jubatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276067
- “Squirrel Tail Grass.” High Country Gardens. https://www.highcountrygardens.com/perennial-plants/ornamental-grass/hordeum-jubatum-squirrel-tail-grass
- “Hordeum Jubatum.” Plants of the World Online. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:404447-1
