Hordeum californicum, commonly known as California Barley or Wild Barley, is an annual grass native to California’s coastal prairies, chaparral, and open oak woodlands, as well as extending into parts of the Great Basin and desert areas of the Western United States. It typically grows rapidly to a height of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters) and is characterized by its slender form and nodding inflorescences. The flowers, which are green or yellow and inconspicuous, bloom in the spring and are followed by barley-like seed heads that are attractive to wildlife.

California Barley is valued for its ability to thrive in poor soils and its use in habitat restoration projects. It is drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water gardens. This grass is also used for erosion control due to its fibrous root system. In cultivation, it requires full sun exposure and performs best in sandy or loamy soils with medium to fast drainage. While it is not commonly used for ornamental purposes, it can provide a natural, meadow-like appearance in appropriate settings.CC BY-SA 4.0