Wall Barley, False Barley, Mouse Barley
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Liliopsida, Order: Poales, Family: Poaceae, Genus: Hordeum, Species: Hordeum murinum · Poaceae (Grass family) · Simple, deciduous-annual grass blade with a prominent sheath and auricles.
Species
Hordeum murinum
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous-annual grass blade with a prominent sheath and auricles.
Family
Poaceae (Grass family)
Shape
Linear to lanceolate; typical of grasses, long and narrow with a pointed tip.
Size
The blades are approximately 2-8 inches (5-20 cm) long and 2-8 mm wide, consistent with the specimen shown which appears to be within the 4-6 inch range.
Margin
Entire (smooth), though often feel slightly rough or scabrous when rubbed in reverse.
Arrangement
Alternate, growing from nodes along the culm (stem).
Rarity
Very Common; often ubiquitous in urban and agricultural landscapes.
Color & Pattern
Dull green to lime green. The specimen shows a uniform green color without variegation; it may turn straw-colored or tan as it dries during the summer.
Venation Pattern
Parallel venation, typical of monocots, with a faint but visible central midrib.
Texture & Surface
Slightly rough (scabrous) on both surfaces, sometimes with fine hairs near the base. The sheath is usually smooth.
Description
A tufted annual grass reaching 10-40 cm in height. It is best known for its bristly, flattened flower spikes (racemes) that resemble ears of barley. The 'awns' (long bristles) are highly characteristic, giving the flower head a fuzzy, brush-like appearance.
Key Features
Long, stiff awns on the flower spike; large, prominent auricles (ear-like lobes) where the leaf blade meets the stem; bristly texture.
Habitat
Disturbed ground, roadsides, urban waste lots, pastures, and garden edges. Prefers well-drained soils and full sun.
Geographic Range
Native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia; extensively naturalized in North America, Australia, and South America where it is often considered a weed.
Condition Notes
The specimen appears in good condition, showing a fresh green color indicative of late spring or early summer growth before the plant dries out.
Interesting Facts
The seeds have barbed awns designed to hitchhike on animal fur. Culturally, children often play with the seed heads, calling them 'fleas' because they 'crawl' up sleeves when squeezed.
Medicinal & Uses
Very limited human use. Primarily considered a nuisance weed. Historically used as a low-quality forage before the seed heads develop.
Ecological Role
Provides early season ground cover and some forage for wildlife, but the sharp awns can be harmful to livestock and pets if they become embedded in skin or ears.
Similar Species
Hordeum vulgare (Common Barley), which is larger and has edible grains; Hordeum jubatum (Foxtail Barley), which has much longer, more spreading awns.
Foraging Tips
Look for it in early summer along footpaths. While not a primary foraging target for food, the green stalks are easily identified by their brush-like tops.
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic, but physically dangerous. The sharp, barbed awns can cause serious injury to dogs and cats by getting stuck in ears, paws, or noses. Toxicity level: Non-toxic.