Overview

Dactylis glomerata is a clump forming grass like in the genus Dactylis, part of the Poaceae family, with deciduous, semi evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 1-1.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Dactylis glomerata grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. It is drought resistant.

About

Dactylis glomerata, commonly known as cock's foot, is a clump-forming grass-like plant in the Poaceae family. It typically grows to a height of 1 to 1.5 metres with a spread of 0.1 to 0.5 metres, reaching full height within 2 to 5 years. This deciduous to semi-evergreen grass thrives in full sun or partial shade and can be grown in a variety of soil types including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, with pH ranging from acid to alkaline. It is drought resistant and suitable for both exposed and sheltered sites, offering seasonal interest in summer and winter.

About the genus

Dactylis is a genus of Eurasian and North African plants in the bluegrass subfamily within the grass family. Dactylis is native to North Africa, they are found throughout the world, and are an invasive species. They are known in English as cock's-foot or cocksfoot grasses, also sometimes as orchard grasses.

Wikipedia contributors, "Dactylis", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Dactylis

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Dactylis

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil type

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained, Well-drained

Aspect

East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Exposed, Sheltered

Plant details

Dactylis glomerata size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

Grass Like

Habit

Clump forming

Foliage

Deciduous, Semi evergreen

Height

1-1.5 metres

Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Time to full height

2-5 years

Frequently asked questions