About
Alopecurus pratensis is a native grass widespread across the British Isles, growing in dense clumps that can reach heights of up to 1 meter. In May and June, it produces compact, cylindrical flowerheads that are soft and tapering. The prominent purple stamens offer a valuable source of pollen for bees and various other insects.
About the genus
Alopecurus includes both annual and perennial grasses that develop clumps of narrow leaves. The upright stems support dense, spike-like clusters of small flowers that appear in late spring and summer.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
- Plant type
- Grass Like
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
- Native to
- Europe, N Africa, SW Asia
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Found in damp meadows and pastures and other grassy places. Will grow in a wide range of situations but thrives in moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Grown as forage for livestock
- Pruning
- No pruning required. Can cut back old foliage in early spring
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed or by division
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to rust or leaf spot, but generally disease-free