Also known as Common Foxtail Grass · Field Foxtail · Field Meadow-Foxtail
Meadow Foxtail (Alopecurus pratensis) is a perennial grass forming dense tufts, prized for its soft, cylindrical flower spikes resembling a fox's tail.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Thrives in open, sunny locations, but can adapt to areas with a few hours of shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers consistently moist soil, but tolerates some dryness once established.
Clay, Loam, Sandy; Well-drained
50% intensity
Adaptable
25% intensity
Hardy perennial, tolerates a wide range of temperatures. Prefers cooler seasons.
Low
25% intensity
Requires minimal feeding; avoid over-fertilization.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Meadow Foxtail thrives in consistently moist soil. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry, especially during dry spells. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Ensure good drainage to promote healthy root development.
Pruning is typically not required for Meadow Foxtail in its natural setting. For ornamental use or to tidy up, remove dead or damaged foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
This helps maintain a neat appearance.
Meadow Foxtail is easily propagated by seed. Sow seeds in autumn or early spring directly into well-prepared soil. Germination is usually rapid under moist conditions.
Division of established clumps in spring is also an effective method.
Repotting is not applicable to Meadow Foxtail as it is a perennial grass typically grown in situ in lawns or meadows. If grown in a container for specific purposes, repotting would occur in spring to a larger container if root-bound.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Meadow Foxtail (Alopecurus pratensis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Alopecurus |
| Species | Alopecurus pratensis |
Similar in genus Alopecurus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
