About
Phleum pratense, timothy grass, is a common native perennial grass forming loose clumps with leafy stems to 1 m topped by stiff, cylindrical flower heads to 15 cm long that produce copious pollen in summer. An important forage grass and the food plant of several moth and butterfly caterpillars. A rewarding plant for naturalising in a wildflower meadow.
About the genus
Phleum, the cat's tail grasses, are annual or perennial grasses with narrow leaves and dense, cylindrical flower spikes. Some species are important forage crops; others are ornamental plants for meadows and borders.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeGrass Like
HabitTufted
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesWildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Native toEurope, N Asia
Care notes
CultivationFound in meadows, pastures and rough ground, tolerating a wide range of conditions but preferring moist, fertile soil. Widely grown for hay
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division
Pest resistanceGenreally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free