Alopecurus

Description

Alopecurus is a genus of grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. The name Alopecurus is derived from the Greek words “alopekis” meaning “fox” and “oura” meaning “tail,” referring to the fox-like appearance of the flower heads. There are over 100 species of Alopecurus, which are distributed throughout the temperate regions of the world. These grasses are typically annual or perennial and can grow up to 1 meter in height.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Liliopsida
Order	Poales
Family	Poaceae
Genus	Alopecurus

Appearance

Alopecurus grasses have slender, upright stems with narrow leaves. The flower heads are cylindrical and densely packed with small spikelets. The spikelets have long, bristly awns that give the flower heads their fox-like appearance. The color of the flower heads can range from green to brown depending on the species.

Care Guide

Alopecurus grasses prefer moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. They require regular watering, especially during hot, dry periods. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and fall. Alopecurus grasses are hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Alopecurus grasses are relatively pest and disease-free, but they can be susceptible to rust and leaf spot. Regular pruning and watering can help prevent these issues.

Habitat

Alopecurus grasses are found in meadows, wetlands, and along streams and rivers. They are often used in landscaping as ornamental grasses because of their unique appearance.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Alopecurus grasses be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Alopecurus grasses can be grown in containers as long as they receive enough sunlight and water.

Q: Are Alopecurus grasses invasive?

A: No, Alopecurus grasses are not considered invasive in most regions.

Q: How often should Alopecurus grasses be fertilized?

A: Alopecurus grasses should be fertilized twice a year, in the spring and fall.

Q: Are Alopecurus grasses deer-resistant?

A: No, Alopecurus grasses are not deer-resistant and may attract grazing animals.

Related Plants

• Deschampsia
• Festuca
• Luzula
• Molinia
• Sesleria

References

• “Alopecurus.” Plant Information Online. Accessed August 2021. https://plantinfo.umn.edu/node/1415089
• “Alopecurus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287125&isprofile=0&cv=1
• “Alopecurus.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/830/alocpecurus/details