Dactylis glomerata, orchard grass
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Grasses

Dactylis glomerata

orchard grass

PoaceaeEurope

At a Glance

Typeperennial grass
Habitclumping
Foliagedeciduous
Height2-4 feet
Width12-18 inches

Growing Zones

USDA Hardiness Zones

3a - 9a
Zone 3a
Zone 3b
Zone 4a
Zone 4b
Zone 5a
Zone 5b
Zone 6a
Zone 6b
Zone 7a
Zone 7b
Zone 8a
Zone 8b
Zone 9a
These zones indicate the coldest temperatures this plant can typically survive.
Frost Tolerancehardy

Overview

Dactylis glomerata is a robust perennial bunchgrass forming dense, coarse-textured clumps that can reach impressive heights. This cool-season grass produces thick, sturdy culms and broad, flat leaf blades that are typically blue-green to green in color with a distinctive rough texture and prominent midrib. The leaves are folded when young and emerge with a characteristic boat-shaped tip. The most distinctive feature of Dactylis glomerata is its unique inflorescence - a one-sided, clustered panicle that resembles a cocksfoot, hence one of its common names. The flower clusters are densely packed and appear flattened, with spikelets arranged in tight, triangular bunches. Individual spikelets are typically 2-5 flowered and compressed laterally. The grass develops a deep, extensive fibrous root system that makes it highly drought tolerant and excellent for erosion control once established.

Native Range

Dactylis glomerata is native to Europe, temperate Asia, and North Africa, where it naturally occurs in meadows, pastures, and open woodlands. It has been widely naturalized throughout temperate regions of North America, Australia, and other continents due to its extensive cultivation as a forage crop.

Suggested Uses

Dactylis glomerata works well for naturalized areas, erosion control on slopes, wildlife habitat, and low-maintenance meadow plantings. It is commonly used for pasture and hay production, making it valuable for agricultural applications. This grass is also suitable for large-scale revegetation projects and can be incorporated into prairie or meadow restorations where a robust, drought-tolerant grass is needed.

How to Identify

Dactylis glomerata can be identified by its distinctive one-sided, flattened flower clusters that resemble a cocksfoot. Key identifying features include the broad, flat leaf blades with rough texture and prominent midrib, the characteristic boat-shaped leaf tips when young, and the densely clustered, triangular panicles. The grass forms coarse, robust bunches rather than spreading by runners, and the spikelets are laterally compressed and arranged in tight, one-sided clusters that distinguish it from other pasture grasses.

Appearance

Bloom Information

late spring to early summer

Detailed Descriptions

Flower Description

green to purplish-green

Foliage Description

blue-green to medium green

Growing Conditions

Sun Requirements

full sun to partial shade

Soil pH

6.0-7.5

Water & Climate

Water Needs

moderate to low

Frost Tolerance

hardy

Time to Maturity

2-3 years

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Dactylis glomerata requires minimal care once established and is valued for its drought tolerance and adaptability to various soil conditions. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish the root system, then reduce watering as the grass becomes drought tolerant. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote vigorous growth, though it can thrive in moderately fertile soils without supplemental feeding. This cool-season grass performs best in spring and fall, entering dormancy during hot summer periods in warmer climates.

Pruning

Dactylis glomerata benefits from cutting back to 3-4 inches in late fall or early spring before new growth begins. For forage use, mow when the grass reaches 8-12 inches in height, allowing it to regrow between cuttings. Avoid cutting too short or too frequently as this can weaken the root system. Remove seed heads if naturalization is not desired, though this grass readily self-seeds in suitable conditions.

⚠️ Toxicity Warning

Dactylis glomerata is generally non-toxic to humans and livestock. It is commonly used as animal forage and poses no significant toxicity concerns. However, as with any grass, the pollen may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals during blooming periods.