Barley

Status: Non-native

Habitat: Wetland, Upland

Description: This is an annual grass that stands 4 to 15 inches tall with a spike flower cluster that ranges from 1 to 4 inches long. At maturity, the seeds may cause injury to animals due to their sharply pointed joints. The flower cluster can be either whitish-green or purple.

Growth Requirements: Like most grasses, Barley needs little management once it becomes established in a field. Many species of Barley are aggressive weeds and can quickly dominate certain sites. Occasional mowing, burning, or discing may be required to maintain the field in an early stage of succes­sion where this plant will thrive. This plant is found most often on disturbed fields at less than 6500 feet in elevation.