Common Types of Foxtail Grass
Although there are many types of foxtail, there are three common types to watch out for. While they share the same fuzzy characteristics, they have distinguishable differences that make them easier to identify.
Green Foxtail
Green foxtail can grow between one and three feet tall and it’s an annual summer grassy weed. The leaves are flat, can grow up to 12 inches long, and typically do not have “hair.” The seed heads are also a cylindrical shape with soft bristles, and the color can be green or purple-tinted. The seed heads are between one to four inches long and are normally upright with a slight nod.
Yellow Foxtail
Yellow foxtails can grow one to four feet tall at maturity, and they tend to pop up in disturbed areas. The leaves are smooth and flat and can grow between two to 12 inches long. The bristly cylindrical seed head is smaller than its counterparts, and the awns turn yellow at maturity.
Giant Foxtail
Giant foxtail can stand up to 6½ feet tall but typically will grow to about four feet. Seed heads are also cylindrical but larger than the other types of foxtail. This variety can grow between two to seven inches long, featuring a green color.
Even the leaves are giant on this type of foxtail, reaching lengths of up to 16 inches long. The seed head of a giant foxtail will droop at maturity, which helps to identify it.