Definition

Noun: * A species of perennial grass, native to parts of Europe and Asia, characterized by its stout, erect growth and silky, cylindrical flower spikes that resemble a fox's tail. It is widely cultivated as a valuable forage grass for pasture and hay and has become naturalized in other regions, including North America.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The meadow was dominated by lush stands of Alopecurus pratensis.
  • Farmers value Alopecurus pratensis for its high yield and palatability to livestock.
  • The silky inflorescence of Alopecurus pratensis is a key identifying feature.

Advanced Usage

• In botanical and agricultural contexts: The term is used precisely to refer to this specific grass species within scientific, ecological, or farming discussions.
  • The study compared the drought resistance of Alopecurus pratensis to other forage grasses.

Variants and Related Words

• Meadow Foxtail: The common English name for .
  • Meadow foxtail is often found in damp grasslands.
• Alopecurus (noun): The genus to which this grass belongs, comprising many species commonly called foxtails.
• Forage grass (noun): A general term for grasses grown for animal feed, which includes .

Synonyms

• Meadow Foxtail: The primary common name synonym.
• Pasture grass: A functional synonym describing one of its primary uses.

Related Terms (Phrases/Contexts)

• Naturalized species: is described as a naturalized species in North America, meaning it is non-native but sustains itself in the wild.
• Silky flowering spikes: A descriptive phrase often used in definitions and identification guides for this plant.
• Perennial grass: A category describing its life cycle, which it belongs to.

Noun

1. stout erect perennial grass of northern parts of Old World having silky flowering spikes; widely cultivated for pasture and hay; naturalized in North America