Dactylis glomerata aka Slender Cock's Foot

Dactylis glomerata is a perennial grass in the Poaceae family. Gardeners know it as cock's-foot or orchard grass. Its native range includes Europe, temperate Asia, Africa, and Macaronesia. It also grows across North America after introduction. It lives in meadows, pastures, open woods, and roadside ground. This cool-season grass grows fast and forms dense, upright clumps.

Stems reach about 4 feet [1.2 metres], according to RHS. NC State reports heights up to 6 feet [1.8 metres]. The green stems are flat, smooth, and bent near their bases. Rough leaves have a blue-green cast and grow along the stems. Leaves reach 0.83 feet [0.25 metres] long. Young blades fold, then open flat as they age. A white midrib stands out on each leaf's underside. Lower leaves spread out, while leaves on flowering stems arch. Foliage may die back or stay partly green.

Flowers appear from spring into summer, depending on the setting. Branched panicles carry tight groups of small green spikelets. The heads have a roughly triangular shape. Each spikelet holds two to five small florets. The flowers lack showy petals or sepals. Cream, pink, or purple anthers add some colour. Bees and other insects collect their pollen. Green or reddish heads turn grey as the seeds ripen. Seed-bearing panicles provide food for wildlife in summer and fall.

This grass grows in full sun or partial shade. It does best in fertile, moist soil with good drainage. It accepts clay, loam, sand, and chalk soils. It also tolerates acid, neutral, and alkaline ground. Established plants resist drought, though moist soil supports good growth. NC State lists USDA zones 4–8; RHS gives it H7. Seed and division both provide ways to grow new plants. It needs no pruning, but its spread can demand control.

Farmers grow orchard grass for pasture, hay, and silage. Its deep, dense roots help hold soil on slopes. Close planting can create thick ground cover. Clumps shelter wildlife, and caterpillars feed on the leaves. Deer, geese, and rabbits also graze it. It can become a turf weed or invade some regions. Pests cause few problems, though rust and leaf spot may occur. No human food uses are known. Sources record folk medicinal uses, not proof of benefit. Its pollen can trigger hay fever.