Foxtail Barley
Hordeum jubatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AR, AZ, CA, CO and 39 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Foxtail barley is a native grass that produces distinctive, fluffy seed heads resembling foxtails from late spring through summer. This drought-tolerant perennial forms compact clumps and thrives in full sun with minimal water once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Foxtail Barley takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Seed heads can appear weedy or unkempt to traditional gardeners
- Annual nature means gaps in plantings each year
- May self-seed aggressively in some conditions
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and beetles during the blooming season. Seeds provide food for birds and small mammals.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Foxtail Barley fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.