Mouse Barley - Hordeum murinum (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Control)

Mouse Barley

Also known as: Smooth barley, Wild barley

Mouse Barley is not an actual cereal grain as its name implies, but instead is a species of grass. It is an important crop in pastures and can provide significant nutrition for foraging livestock. Mouse Barley can grow to 30 cm in height.

Scientific classification

Species

Mouse Barley (Hordeum murinum)

Grasses, sedges and allies

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Weeds

Weed or not

Grass

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Early fall

Bloom Time

Late winter, Spring, Summer, Early fall

Harvest Time

30 cm

Plant Height

60 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

7 mm to 1.6 cm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Images of Mouse Barley

Distribution of Mouse Barley

Distribution Map

Mouse Barley is a species with a broad range, indigenous to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Its presence extends as an introduced species to various parts of the Southern Hemisphere, incorporating both Americas and reaching to parts of northeastern and southern Africa, as well as Australasia. Mouse Barley notably thrives across continental expanses, showcasing its adaptability beyond its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Disturbed ground, dry grassland

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Love, Healing, Protection

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Toxicity

Mouse Barley is not harmful to humans, but some may have airborne allergies to its pollen, causing mild symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and breathing difficulties. These allergies occur in spring and summer due to the widespread presence of mouse Barley.

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Weed Control

Mouse Barley is a weed that when left untended can take over cultivated areas, such as vineyards, managed forests, and crop fields. The plant is native to the Mediterranean, so it thrives in warmer climates where there is plenty of water. The weed is competitive, and prevents native species from becoming established. California, where mouse Barley is considered moderately invasive, has taken steps to ban the sale, transport, and cultivation of the plant. Elsewhere, is still legal to grow in most states. Tilling, mowing, and hand-pulling are sometimes effective removal methods, or alternatively, try applying a herbicide.

How to Control It

The best season for the removal of mouse Barley is during the late winter and early spring. This is the ideal time because it is before the plant has grown to its full size or reaches seeding stage. The lifecycle of mouse Barley typically begins in the fall, growing through the winter and reaching maturity in the spring. Removal at this time will prevent the spread of seeds and overall growth, effectively controlling the plant.

Hand-Pulling: This is a simple and effective method that requires no special tools. Simply grasp the mouse Barley at the base, as close to the ground as possible, and apply a steady upward force. Ensure you remove the entire root system to prevent regrowth.
Mulching: Spread a thick layer of organic mulch around your garden. This will not only enrich the soil but also suffocate mouse Barley, making it difficult for the plant to access sunlight and grow.
Solarization: During a hot period, cover the area with a clear, plastic sheet. The sun's rays will cause heat to build under the sheet, effectively killing mouse Barley. This process can take several weeks but is a good organic option.
Smothering: Lay down a layer of cardboard or several layers of newspaper over the mouse Barley. Then, cover this layer with organic compost or mulch. The mouse Barley will be deprived of light, and eventually die off.
Vinegar Spray: This method involves spraying a solution of vinegar and water on mouse Barley, which will cause the plant to wither and die. It's best to do this on a sunny day to aid the process.

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Care Guide for Mouse Barley

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Mouse Barley prefers regular hydration and a stable environment with some humidity, benefiting from weekly watering. While moderately drought-tolerant, it requires optimal soil drainage outdoors to avoid waterlogging during heavy rains.

Propagation: Mouse Barley propagates effortlessly by sowing seeds in spring. Observe for germination and the emergence of young shoots, indicating successful propagation. No specialized propagation methods are necessary, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners.

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Images of Mouse Barley

Distribution of Mouse Barley

Culture

Toxicity

Weed Control

Care Guide for Mouse Barley

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