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Description
Meadow foxtail (Alopecurus pratensis) is a native, cool-season perennial grass widely found across UK water meadows, wetlands, and low-lying areas.
It is an early flowering grass, beginning growth and flowering from April to June, and is valued for its role in biodiverse meadows and managed grasslands. Thriving on moist, fertile soils, meadow foxtail is commonly included in hay crop and wildflower seed mixtures for low-lying or seasonally wet sites.
How to Identify
Meadow foxtail is easily recognised by its soft, cylindrical seed head, which resembles a fox’s tail and appears earlier than most meadow grasses. The flower spike is green to purplish and held above narrow, flat leaf blades that grow from a loose, tufted base.
How to Grow
Meadow foxtail grows best in moist, fertile soils in full sun, though it will tolerate partial shade. It is particularly well-suited to water meadows, moist-fertile sites, and areas that experience periodic flooding.
Once established, it is low-maintenance and provides early cover and habitat for wildlife, including insects such as the Essex skipper butterfly.
