NC State Extension Publications

Description

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Yellow foxtail (Setaria pumila) is a bright green clumping annual or perennial weed common in turf and pasture areas. The seedhead can be distinguished from that of green foxtail because it is thicker, and has shorter bristles. Giant foxtail has the largest seedhead of the three and this seedhead is drooping. In addition, yellow foxtail has hairs on the leaf margins and ligule. Knotroot foxtail is a perennial weed that is very similar in appearance to yellow foxtail, but it has rhizomes whereas yellow foxtail does not.

Cultural Control

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These grasses occur infrequently in North Carolina in highly maintained turf but can be common in utility turf, such as along roadsides. Maintaining a dense, healthy turf year round by proper mowing and fertilization helps prevent encroachment and weed establishment.

Species Data

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  • SEEDHEAD / FLOWER
  • VERNATION TYPE
    • leaves rolled in the bud
  • LIGULE TYPE
  • GROWTH SEASON / LIFE CYCLE
    • summer annual or perennial weed
  • AURICLE TYPE
    • absent
  • LEAF BLADE TIP SHAPE
    • sharp-pointed; long hairs on upper surface
  • LEAF BLADE WIDTH
    • up to 0.47 inches (12 mm) wide
  • STOLON PRESENCE
    • absent
  • RHIZOME PRESENCE
    • absent
  • COLLAR TYPE
  • SHEATH MARGIN
  • SHEATH TYPE
Yellow Foxtail seedhead

Figure 1. Yellow Foxtail seedhead.

Yellow Foxtail seedhead

Figure 2. Yellow Foxtail seedhead.

Yellow Foxtail seedhead

Figure 3. Yellow Foxtail seedhead.

Yellow Foxtail seedhead

Figure 4. Yellow Foxtail seedhead.

Yellow Foxtail ligule

Figure 5. Yellow Foxtail ligule.

Yellow Foxtail ligule

Figure 6. Yellow Foxtail ligule.

Yellow Foxtail auricle

Figure 7. Yellow Foxtail auricle.

Yellow Foxtail collar

Figure 8. Yellow Foxtail collar.

Yellow Foxtail collar

Figure 9. Yellow Foxtail collar.

Yellow Foxtail collar

Figure 10. Yellow Foxtail collar.

Yellow Foxtail sheath

Figure 11. Yellow Foxtail sheath.

Yellow Foxtail sheath

Figure 12. Yellow Foxtail sheath.

Yellow Foxtail sheath

Figure 13. Yellow Foxtail sheath.

Yellow Foxtail sheath

Figure 14. Yellow Foxtail sheath.

Author

Extension Specialist (Turfgrass/Forage Crop Weed Mgt)
Crop & Soil Sciences

Find more information at the following NC State Extension websites:

Publication date: Nov. 9, 2017

Recommendations for the use of agricultural chemicals are included in this publication as a convenience to the reader. The use of brand names and any mention or listing of commercial products or services in this publication does not imply endorsement by NC State University or N.C. A&T State University nor discrimination against similar products or services not mentioned. Individuals who use agricultural chemicals are responsible for ensuring that the intended use complies with current regulations and conforms to the product label. Be sure to obtain current information about usage regulations and examine a current product label before applying any chemical. For assistance, contact your local N.C. Cooperative Extension county center.

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