Barley and Wild Barleys: Understanding the Hordeum Genus in Your Landscape
When most people hear barley, they think of beer brewing or breakfast cereals. But the Hordeum genus is actually a fascinating group of grasses that includes both the familiar cultivated barley and numerous wild species that pop up in landscapes across North America. Whether you’re encountering these grass-like plants in your yard or considering them for your garden, here’s what you need to know about this diverse plant group.
What Exactly Is Hordeum?
Hordeum is a genus of grasses that includes both annual and perennial species. These are true grasses in the Poaceae family, characterized by their distinctive grass-like growth habit with narrow leaves and characteristic seed heads. The genus includes everything from the barley you might find in your pantry (Hordeum vulgare) to various wild species that have naturalized across different regions.
Where You’ll Find Them
The distribution of Hordeum species is remarkably wide-ranging. You can find various species growing across virtually every U.S. state and Canadian province, from Alabama to Alaska, and from British Columbia to Newfoundland. They’ve also established populations in Hawaii, Greenland, and other regions.
The native status of Hordeum species is quite complex. While some species are native to certain regions like St. Pierre and Miquelon, many have been introduced to areas where they weren’t originally found. In places like Hawaii and Greenland, various Hordeum species are considered non-native introductions that have naturalized and persist in the wild.
Should You Plant Barley in Your Garden?
Here’s where things get interesting. Most Hordeum species aren’t typically chosen for ornamental gardening, and there are several reasons why you might want to think twice before deliberately planting them:
The Wildlife Reality Check
While any plant can potentially provide some benefit to wildlife, Hordeum species offer relatively limited value. Research shows they provide only 2-5% of the diet for small mammals and water birds, and offer only sparse cover. If you’re looking to create a wildlife-friendly garden, you’ll likely find much better options among native plant species.
Growth Characteristics
Hordeum species are grasses with the typical growth pattern you’d expect – they can be either annual (completing their life cycle in one year) or perennial (returning year after year). As grasses, they’re wind-pollinated rather than relying on bees or other pollinators, so they won’t contribute much to supporting pollinator populations in your garden.
Better Alternatives for Your Landscape
If you’re drawn to the grass-like aesthetic that Hordeum provides, consider exploring native grass species that are indigenous to your specific region. Native grasses typically offer:
- Better wildlife value and habitat
- Stronger pollinator support (some native grasses do support beneficial insects)
- Adaptation to local climate conditions
- Lower maintenance requirements once established
- No risk of unwanted spread beyond your garden
If You Encounter Wild Barley
If you discover Hordeum species growing naturally on your property, they’re generally harmless and require no special management. These grasses are part of the naturalized landscape in many areas and can coexist peacefully with other plants.
The Bottom Line
While Hordeum species aren’t necessarily bad plants, they’re not typically the best choice for most home gardens and landscapes. Their limited wildlife value and non-native status in many areas make them less desirable than native alternatives. If you’re planning a garden with ecological benefits in mind, you’ll likely find better options among grasses and other plants that are native to your specific region.
For the most impactful and sustainable landscaping choices, consider consulting with local native plant societies or extension services to discover the grass species that are truly native to your area and will provide the greatest benefits to local wildlife and ecosystems.
