Barley (2)

Common Barley
Hordeum vulgare

Family: Grass (Poaceae)
AKA:
Photo taken on: November 17, 2011
Location: Los Alamos, NM
Life Zones: Plains to montane
Habitat: Disturbed areas, pastures

This is the barley grown worldwide for animal fodder, brewing and human consumption which has escaped from cultivation. It is easily identified by its very long, stiff bristles on the flower spike.

Foxtail Barley
Hordeum jubatum

Family: Grass (Poaceae)
AKA:
Photo taken on: July 21, 2011
Location: Slate River Valley, CO
Life Zones: Plains to subalpine
Habitat: Roadsides, meadows

Grows over 2ft tall with soft, purplish-green nodding flower spikes. Mature flower spikes are erect. These too have long bristles. Leaves are rough and hairy. Common.