Hordeum, commonly referred to as barley, consists of annual or perennial grasses that bloom in the summer. This genus is native to temperate areas in the northern hemisphere as well as South America.

Hordeum

Hordeum brachyantherum

Hordeum bulbosum

Hordeum chilense

Hordeum distichon

Hordeum hystrix

Hordeum jubatum is a clump-forming grass that can grow up to 60 cm in height, classified as either an annual or perennial. It produces nodding clusters of elongated, silky green spikelets, which frequently display a subtle reddish tint at the tips, blooming from early to mid-summer.

Hordeum jubatum

Hordeum jubatum 'Early Pink'

Hordeum jubatum from Ussuri

Hordeum marinum

Hordeum murinum

Hordeum murinum subsp. murinum

Hordeum nodosum

Hordeum pusillum

Hordeum sativum

Hordeum secalinum

Hordeum vulgare, commonly referred to as barley, is an annual grass characterized by upright green stems and alternating leaves. During the summer, it produces green flower spikes that develop kernels, which sway in the wind and gradually change to a lighter golden brown as they ripen. The classification of barley is based on the number of rows present on the flower spike: six-row barley, known for its elevated protein levels, is typically utilized for animal feed, while two-row barley is preferred for malt production in brewing.