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Carolina foxtail
Scientific Name: Alopecurus carolinianus
Family: Poaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth: Graminoid
Duration: Annual
Other Names:
Carolina Foxtail (Alopecurus carolinianus)
Carolina foxtail, scientifically known as Alopecurus carolinianus, is a common grass species found throughout North America.
Common Names
- Carolina Foxtail
- Tufted Foxtail
- Carolina Meadow-foxtail
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Alopecurus carolinianus Walter
- Genus: Alopecurus
- Species: carolinianus
- Family: Poaceae (Grass family)
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to much of North America, including Texas.
- Found in temporary rainwater pools and Mississippi croplands.
Morphological Characteristics
- Reaches 4-6 inches in height.
- Features a distinctive, compact, foxtail-like seedhead that resembles timothy.
- Leaves are without (text missing information).
- Stems may be spreading or erect.
- The plant occurs as a single spike.
Considerations for Pets
The plant has a distinctive seedhead that resembles foxtail. "Foxtail" is also used as a generic term that is applied to several species of wild grasses.
Ecological Role
- Can reduce the wild garlic population.
- Considered a cool-season grass.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Can serve as an alternative host to Rice Blast Disease (Magnaporthe oryzae, formerly M. grisea).
Quirky Facts
- Cloudland Canyon, a musical group, has a song titled "Carolina Foxtail/Sea Chirp".
Further Information
- Discover Life: Provides information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Alopecurus carolinianus.
- Purdue University, Department of Botany & Plant Pathology: Glenn Nice, Weed Diagnostician, has information available.
- United States Department of Agriculture.