Annual Beardgrass, Annual rabbitsfoot grass
Polypogon monspeliensis
Family: Poaceae or Gramineae
What it is like
Polypogon monspeliensis is a ANNUAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.8
Where it is found
Damp pastures near the sea in southern England and the Channel Islands. A casual in other parts of the country.
Southwestern Europe, including Britain, Mediterranean, Ethiopia, Azores, S. Africa..
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
The plant has been used extensively for food. No further details are given, but it is likely to be the seed that was eaten.
Medicine
Rating: 1
An infusion of the plant ashes has been used in the treatment of heart palpitations.
Other
Rating: 0
How it is grown
Succeeds in any moderately fertile well-drained soil in a sunny position. The compact silky inflorescence is used in fresh and dried flower arrangements.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in situ and only just cover the seed.
Best place to grow: Meadow; Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Annual
Hardiness: 7-10
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist