Phleum, Genus, pratense, Species,
- Genus & species
timothy grass
Overview
Phleum pratense is a cool-season perennial bunchgrass 20-40 inches (50-100 cm) tall, sometimes reaching 60 inches (150 cm), growing in dense tufts from a swollen, corm-like stem base. The flat, grey-green to blue-green leaf blades are 4-18 inches (10-45 cm) long and rough to the touch, with prominent ligules where they meet the stem. From early to midsummer each stem carries a dense, cylindrical spike-like panicle 2-6 inches (5-15 cm) long, grey-green and bristly, packed with tiny flowers whose protruding stamens and short awns give the head a soft, fuzzy outline that resembles a cat tail. The heads ripen to pale straw and shed light, wind-borne seed. P. pratense grows in meadows, pastures, roadsides, and field margins, and is among the chief hay and forage grasses of temperate farming. It forms tight clumps rather than running, and the shallow roots leave it sensitive to prolonged drought.
Native Range
Phleum pratense is native to most of Europe and temperate Asia and has been introduced across North America, South America, Australia, and other temperate regions as a forage grass. It grows in moist meadows, grasslands, and disturbed ground, and has naturalised widely outside its native range.Suggested Uses
Grown chiefly as a hay and pasture grass for cattle, horses, and other livestock. It is used in meadow and naturalistic grass mixes and for erosion control on moist banks. The cylindrical seed heads also feature in cut and dried grass arrangements.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1'8" - 3'4"
Width/Spread1' - 1'6"
Bloom Information
The grass flowers from June to August, with anthers and feathery stigmas emerging from the cylindrical head. It is wind-pollinated, so the heads are not showy. Seed ripens through late summer, turning the heads pale straw before they shed.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
grey-green to blue-greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
