Dactylis glomerata aka Slender Cock's Foot
Taxonomy ID: 11759
Dactylis glomerata, also known as cock's-foot, orchard grass, or cat grass, is a cool-season perennial C3 bunchgrass that can grow up to 6 feet high. It is native to Europe, temperate Asia, and northern Africa, but has been introduced throughout most of the cool-temperate regions of the world as a forage grass in pastures and for hay and silage production. Cocksfoot is an important pasture grass in Australia, New Zealand, and worldwide, and is made up of several subspecies which are classified according to chromosome number, area of origin, seasonal growth pattern, and morphological characteristics. While it does not contain animal toxins, cocksfoot is variably less digestible than ryegrass and can be affected by rust and grass grub in some situations.
The older cultivars of cocksfoot originated in northern Europe and were suited to the higher-rainfall, cooler southern parts of Australia, often where the soils had low water-holding capacities. However, since the 1950s, there has been greater interest in cultivars that incorporate a higher degree of winter growth, a characteristic of the Mediterranean accessions. These new cultivars, such as Porto and Currie, have greater drought tolerance and a growth pattern better adapted to the Australian temperate climate. Current improvement programmes and priorities for future research in the temperate Australian states and New Zealand are outlined.
Dactylis glomerata can be found in meadows, pasture, roadsides, and rough grassland. Its popularity as cat grass has also earned it a nickname, but it remains an important species for livestock forage worldwide.
Common names
Slender Cock's Foot, Orchard Grass, Cat Grass, Cock's FootMore information about Slender Cock's Foot
How difficult is it to take care of Slender Cock's Foot
With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Slender Cock's Foot, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.
What is the region of origin of Slender Cock's Foot
Slender Cock's Foot’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from Norway south and east to N. Africa and temperate Asia.
What are the water needs for Slender Cock's Foot
Slender Cock's Foot should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Slender Cock's Foot
Slender Cock's Foot loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
What is the sunlight requirement for Slender Cock's Foot
To ensure optimal growth, the Slender Cock's Foot prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Is Slender Cock's Foot toxic to humans/pets?
No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
What's the dormancy for Slender Cock's Foot
During the wintertime, it is common for Slender Cock's Foot plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.
What is the growth pattern of Slender Cock's Foot
The Slender Cock's Foot displays clumping growth habits, with new shoots arising from the soil close to the parent plant.
More info:
Wikipedia