For ornamental foxtail barley, look for seed labeled Hordeum jubatum. The Outsidepride options are the clearest match: the 1,000-seed pack suits a smaller planting, while the 2,000-seed pack offers more seed of the same listed variety. TomorrowSeeds also lists foxtail barley, and Lagurus ovatus is a different ornamental grass with a bunny-tail appearance. Scotts Turf Builder Rapid Grass Sun & Shade Mix is a lawn product, not a stated foxtail barley seed.
| Product | Best suited for | Key distinction |
|---|---|---|
| Outsidepride 1,000 Seeds | Smaller ornamental planting | Hordeum jubatum; Zones 4–10 |
| Outsidepride 2,000 Seeds | Planting more ornamental grass | Same stated variety and guidance |
| TomorrowSeeds Squirrel Tail | Decorative borders or naturalized areas | Feathery heads; drought-tolerant claim |
| Lagurus ovatus Bunny Tails | Gardeners seeking a different fluffy grass | Separate species from foxtail barley |
| Scotts Rapid Grass Sun & Shade | Buyers seeking a turf mix | Not identified as foxtail barley |
Outsidepride 1,000 Foxtail Barley Seeds
This pack is labeled perennial Hordeum jubatum, also called foxtail barley. The listed growing range is USDA Zones 4–10. The seller recommends sowing in spring after the danger of frost has passed and using four to five seeds per ornamental grass plant.
Best for: Gardeners who want foxtail barley for a smaller planting and prefer a product with a stated species and planting guidance. It is the most direct match for shoppers searching for foxtail grass seed.
Consider: The listing describes a perennial that may go dormant in winter; it is not presented as year-round green turf. The supplied details do not specify germination time or mature plant size.
Outsidepride 2,000 Foxtail Barley Seeds
This larger-count option is also identified as perennial Hordeum jubatum for Zones 4–10. Its listed sowing guidance matches the 1,000-seed version: plant in spring after frost danger passes and use four to five seeds per ornamental grass plant. The listing says plants typically become dormant in winter and can be cut back in spring when new growth appears.
Best for: Buyers planning a broader ornamental display or wanting more seeds of the same named species than the smaller pack provides. Choose this if the 1,000-seed count may not cover the intended planting.
Consider: The product details do not provide a coverage area, so seed count alone cannot establish how many square feet it will plant. Follow spacing and sowing instructions on the package if provided.
TomorrowSeeds Squirrel Tail Grass Seeds
The listing describes this as squirrel tail grass seed and includes the names foxtail barley and Hordeum jubatum. It highlights feathery flower heads for ornamental effect, along with use in borders or naturalized areas. The seller also describes it as low-maintenance and drought-tolerant.
Best for: Buyers prioritizing a decorative grass for borders or naturalized garden areas. It is a relevant option because the product name and description connect it with foxtail barley, while emphasizing visual texture and movement.
Consider: The supplied feature details do not state a hardiness zone, sowing season, or seeds-per-plant recommendation. Confirm local planting directions before sowing.
Lagurus Ovatus Bunny Tails Seeds
This product is labeled Lagurus ovatus, not Hordeum jubatum. It is therefore an alternative ornamental grass rather than true foxtail barley. The listed instructions say to sow from March through May or from August through October at the flowering location. Prepare fine, well-draining soil, sow thinly no deeper than 3–5 mm, and lightly rake over the seed.
Best for: Gardeners who want a bunny-tail ornamental grass and are open to a different species. The product’s specific sowing-depth and timing guidance makes its planting instructions clear.
Consider: Avoid this option if the goal is specifically foxtail barley or Hordeum jubatum; the listed botanical name is different.
Scotts Turf Builder Rapid Grass Mix
This product’s supplied name identifies it as a Sun & Shade turf mix. The product information provided here does not include a seed list or other features confirming that it contains foxtail barley.
Best for: Shoppers comparing a lawn-oriented product with ornamental seed options. It is included as a distinction, not as a recommended substitute for Hordeum jubatum.
Consider: Avoid it if you specifically need foxtail barley seed; the available listing details do not establish that it is the requested species.
Buying Guide: How To Choose Foxtail Grass Seed
Is the seed actually foxtail barley?
Check the botanical name when species matters. The Outsidepride products specify Hordeum jubatum. Lagurus ovatus is a separate ornamental grass, and a turf mix should not be assumed to contain foxtail barley unless its seed contents say so.
How much seed should you buy?
Compare the intended planting area with the package count and any available coverage instructions. The Outsidepride listings recommend four to five seeds per ornamental grass plant, but the supplied information does not state square-foot coverage. The 2,000-seed option provides a larger count than the 1,000-seed option.
When should you sow it?
For the Outsidepride foxtail barley, the listed direction is to sow in spring after frost danger has passed. The separate Lagurus product gives different seasonal instructions: March to May or August to October. Follow the instructions for the species purchased and consider local frost conditions.
Does foxtail barley suit a lawn?
The listed foxtail barley products are described as ornamental grasses, not turf mixes. Choose them for ornamental planting rather than assuming they will create a conventional lawn. The Scotts listing is named as a turf product, but the supplied details do not confirm its seed composition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the botanical name for foxtail barley?
The Outsidepride listings identify foxtail barley as Hordeum jubatum.
When should I plant foxtail barley seeds?
The listed Outsidepride guidance recommends sowing in spring after the danger of frost has passed.
How many foxtail barley seeds should I use per plant?
The Outsidepride listings recommend four to five seeds per ornamental grass plant.
Is bunny tails grass the same as foxtail barley?
No. The bunny-tails product is labeled Lagurus ovatus, while foxtail barley is listed as Hordeum jubatum.
Will foxtail barley stay green in winter?
The Outsidepride listing says the perennial typically becomes dormant in winter and can be cut back in spring when new growth appears.