Edge/ Rat-tail Fescue

COMMON NAME: Rat-Tailed Fescue                 

OTHER COMMON NAME(S):

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Vulpia myurus

FAMILY: Poaceae

COMMUNITY: Edge

STATUS: Naturalized, Native of Europe

LIFESPAN: Annual

HEIGHT: 4 to 28 inches

FLOWERING TIME: Late July

FRUITING TIME: Late July

DISTRIBUTION: Temperate and subtropical regions ~ Coastal plain in NJ

IDENTIFYING CHARACTERISTICS: Erect or ascending ~ Blades usually thin and hairy ~ Inflorescence (flower-cluster) dense, spike-like, 1 to 10 inches

Consider the often quoted rhyme when identifying grasses:“Sedges have edges, Rushes are round, Grasses have joints from their tips to the ground.”

GENERAL INFORMATION: In ancient times and continuing to today this plant family (Poaceae), commonly known as grasses, have stood between mankind and starvation.  For thousands of years grasses have provided food we eat (wheat, rice, corn, sugar cane, and more) and food for our domestic livestock.  In earlier times grasses were used to make thatched roofs, mats for floors, bedding, and kitchen utensils.  Indeed, some made an entire house of a grass species--bamboo--including water-piping, ladders and furniture. In early man’s culture, selected grasses were used as writing tools and reeds provided flutes and similar musical instruments.  Dyed grasses played an ornamental role as part of costumes worn for ceremonial occasions.  Incense was made from grasses. Children made toy boats, dolls, and other toys with plants in this family.  A good whistle can be made by placing a blade of grass between the thumbs and blowing across it. On the darker side, early man made war using grasses for shafts of arrows, spears, and darts.  Swords and knives could be fashioned from bamboo.  Grain that has molded or have a fungus can be toxic. 

Please note: While harvesting wild berries/fruit is permitted at Island Beach State Park, visitors must adhere to park regulations at all times and must not damage vegetation or go off designated trails.  This information is presented for educational purposes.