Water Foxtail

(Alopecurus geniculatus)

Water Foxtail (Alopecurus geniculatus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Alopecurus geniculatus, commonly known as Water Foxtail, is a deciduous perennial grass native to wet meadows, marshes, and other moist, grassy habitats in Europe. It typically forms tufted bunches with erect or sometimes bent stems reaching up to 60 cm (24 inches) in height. The leaves are generally about 12 cm (5 inches) long, contributing to the grass’s dense, tufted appearance. The inflorescence is a dense, spike-like panicle that can be up to 6 or 7 cm long, with the flowering season occurring in late spring to early summer. The flowers have dusty yellow-orange anthers, which are not particularly showy but are characteristic of the species.

Water Foxtail is valued for its ability to thrive in wet conditions, making it suitable for riparian plantings, rain gardens, and areas with poor drainage. It is also used for erosion control due to its dense growth habit. This grass prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade and requires high amounts of water, reflecting its natural preference for wet habitats. It is adaptable to a variety of soil types, as long as they are consistently moist. While not commonly grown for ornamental purposes, it can provide a naturalistic look in appropriate settings. Care should be taken as it can become invasive in some areas, especially where it is not native.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 0.8-2 feet
  • Width: 1-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: High
  • Drainage: Slow, Standing

Common Uses

Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

native to wet meadows, marshes, and other moist, grassy habitats in Europe

Other Names

Common Names: Marsh Foxtail, Floating Foxtail, Knee-Joint Foxtail, Marsh Meadow Foxtail, Water Meadow Foxtail, Knæbøjet Rævehale, Knick-Fuchsschwanz, Knick-Fuchsschwanzgras, Vulpin Genouillé, Vulpin Géniculé

Scientific Names: , Alopecurus geniculatus, Alopecurus geniculatus subsp. geniculatus, Alopecurus geniculatus var. patagonicus, Alopecurus palustris subsp. geniculatus, Alopecurus bulbosus, Alopecurus pallescens, Alopecurus geniculatus var. bulbosus, Alopecurus geniculatus var. radicans, Alopecurus geniculatus f. gracilic

GBIF Accepted Name: Alopecurus geniculatus L.