Also known as California Barley · Northern Barley
Meadow barley (Hordeum brachyantherum) is a cool-season perennial grass native to western North America, often found in wet meadows and pastures.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce in dormancy.
Clay, Loam, Sand, Slightly Acidic, Neutral, Slightly Alkaline
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperate climates. Tolerates moderate heat and is cold-hardy, requiring a period of winter chill.
Low
25% intensity
Benefits from light feeding in spring; avoid over-fertilization to prevent weak growth.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Meadow barley prefers consistent moisture, especially during its active growth phase. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feel dry. Reduce watering in late summer and fall as the plant matures and enters dormancy.
Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Minimal pruning is required for meadow barley. After flowering and seed set, the foliage will naturally yellow and die back.
Cut back the dead or dormant foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent disease.
Meadow barley is easily propagated by seed. Sow seeds in fall or early spring directly into the garden or a suitable container.
For division, gently separate established clumps in early spring or fall, replanting the divisions immediately to ensure successful establishment.
Meadow barley is a perennial grass that is typically grown directly in the ground. Repotting is generally not necessary unless cultivating in containers.
If grown in pots, repot every 2-3 years in spring to refresh the soil and provide more space for root growth.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Meadow Barley (Hordeum brachyantherum)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Hordeum |
| Species | Hordeum brachyantherum |
Similar in genus Hordeum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
