Little Barley
Hordeum pusillum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–16" H × 2"–8" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 41 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Little barley is a small native annual grass that forms compact clumps reaching up to 16 inches tall. It produces delicate seed heads from late spring through summer and requires minimal water once established. This short-lived grass naturally reseeds itself in suitable conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Little 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.
- Annual lifecycle creates gaps when plants die back
- Seed heads can appear weedy or unkempt
- May be mistaken for unwanted weedy grasses
Wildlife value
The flowers and seed heads attract bees and beetles during the growing season. Small birds may also feed on the seeds in late summer.
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 Little Barley fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.