Orange Foxtail
Alopecurus aequalis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
4"–24" H × 2"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, CT and 32 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Orange foxtail is a short annual grass that produces characteristic fuzzy, cylindrical flower spikes throughout the growing season. This compact native grass forms small clumps and typically stays under two feet tall, making it suitable for smaller garden spaces.
In an HOA neighborhood
Orange 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.
- Annual growth cycle creates gaps and bare spots
- Grass form may appear weedy to conventional landscaping standards
- Requires replanting each year for consistent appearance
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and flies during the long blooming period from May through September. As a native grass, it also provides habitat and food sources for various insects.
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 Orange Foxtail fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.