Green foxtail

Green foxtail (Setaria viridis) is a member of the large family Poaceae and is related to spelt, rice, wheat and other common grains.

Also known as green bristlegrass or wild foxtail, the annual plant’s habit depends on where it grows.

Green foxtail on a wall

In general, green foxtail can grow up to 50 centimetres high. The spikes appear from June to October.

It grows almost horizontally along or on paths, where it tends to stay small and only grows to a height of 10 centimetres.

Green foxtail by the wayside

On less disturbed sites with better soil, its stalks point vertically upwards. Here Setaria viridis can reach heights of up to 50 centimetres.

Green foxtail on a building site

Apart from urban areas, where it colonises paths, roadsides, walls, building sites and gardens, Setaria viridis can also be found on dams, embankments and meadows.

Its native range includes regions of Asia, Europe and North Africa. It is also an invasive species in North and South America (source).

Green foxtail grows along or on paths

green foxtail spikes
In Central Europe green foxtail shows its spikes from June to October.

Categories:

More species from the Poaceae family