Foxtail Barley, What is it?

Under the Weed Control Act, 2010, Foxtail Barley (Hordeum jubatum L.) has been designated as a troublesome weed and a nuisance.  It is a short lived perennial grass, native to the area, with a shallow, fibrous root system.  The plant grows in clumps, has narrow leaves and the seeds have brushlike fine and long hairs which make the seed appear to have a ‘tail’.  These seed heads have a reddish green colour to them during the growth stage and are a cream colour when mature.  The seed heads are fuzzy and are easily dispersed by the wind.  They often cling to the coats of pets and other animals.

Foxtail can be found in many parks, open spaces and on underand /or partially developed land.  The plant is very adaptable and can be found in a wide range of environments.  It is one of the few weeds that are native to the region and can be found growing in all types of soil.  It  can go by other names including:  wild barley, skunk-tail grass and tickle grass.

The City of Warman receives several complaints in regard to the invasive plant and it is taking a proactive approach to minimize the proliferation of foxtail.  The City of Warman is working on educating developers and landowners to create awareness and sharing techniques to control the foxtail issues in Warman.

For more information view:  Managing Foxtail in our Community