Creeping foxtail and meadow foxtail are similar but not the same. They belong to the same genus, Alopecurus, but have some distinguishing characteristics. One way to tell them apart is by looking at their leaves. Creeping foxtail has broader leaves, measuring about 8-12 mm in width, while meadow foxtail has narrower leaves, typically around 4-8 mm wide. This difference in leaf width can help identify the two species.
Another distinguishing feature is the color of their inflorescence. Creeping foxtail has a dark purplish inflorescence, which sets it apart from meadow foxtail. This color difference can be useful in distinguishing between the two species when they are in bloom.
It’s important to note that there are other weedy species that are also referred to as foxtail, such as foxtail barley and green foxtail. These species are not the same as creeping foxtail or meadow foxtail, but they share a similar name. Foxtail barley (Hordeum jubatum) is a weedy grass species with long, bristly seed heads that resemble a fox’s tail. Green foxtail (Setaria viridis) is another weedy grass species with bristly, green seed heads. These weedy species are often found in lawns and gardens and can be problematic, but they are different from the specific foxtail species mentioned earlier.
In my personal experience as a gardening and landscaping expert, I have come across both creeping foxtail and meadow foxtail in various settings. The broader leaves and dark purplish inflorescence of creeping foxtail make it quite distinct from meadow foxtail. However, it’s always important to properly identify the plant species before taking any action, as misidentification could lead to incorrect management practices.
To summarize, creeping foxtail and meadow foxtail are similar but can be distinguished by differences in leaf width and inflorescence color. Other weedy species with the name foxtail exist, but they are not the same as creeping foxtail or meadow foxtail. Proper identification is crucial to ensure appropriate management strategies are employed.
