Marsh Foxtail
Alopecurus geniculatus
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Marsh Foxtail as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
8"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, CT and 28 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Marsh foxtail is a native grass that thrives in wet areas and produces distinctive cylindrical flower spikes from late spring through summer. This compact perennial grass forms neat clumps and tolerates consistently moist to wet soil conditions better than most lawn grasses.
In an HOA neighborhood
Marsh Foxtail takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires consistently wet soil conditions that are uncommon in typical landscapes
- Can appear weedy or unkempt compared to traditional turf grasses
- May spread aggressively in suitable wet conditions
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and flies during the long blooming period from May through August. Seeds provide food for various birds and small wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Marsh Foxtail need?
- Marsh Foxtail grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Marsh Foxtail bloom?
- Marsh Foxtail blooms in May, June, July, and August.
- Where is Marsh Foxtail native?
- Marsh Foxtail (Alopecurus geniculatus) is native to AZ, CA, CO, CT and 28 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Marsh Foxtail toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Marsh Foxtail as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Marsh Foxtail attract?
- Marsh Foxtail draws bees and flies.
- Is Marsh Foxtail HOA-friendly?
- Marsh Foxtail takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Marsh Foxtail? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz