Crested Dog's-tail (Cynosurus cristatus) is a perennial grass native to Europe and parts of Asia, thriving in meadows, pastures, and grasslands. It is recognized for its distinctive crested inflorescence, which forms a narrow, cylindrical spike. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, it plays a crucial role in improving soil structure and supporting biodiversity. Its dense root system helps prevent soil erosion and enhances soil fertility. Crested Dog's-tail is an excellent choice for a ground cover layer in food forests, providing habitat and food for various insects and wildlife, thus contributing to a balanced ecosystem. Historically, it has been used in traditional pastures for its palatability and nutritional value for livestock. It pairs well with legumes like clover, which can enhance nitrogen levels in the soil.
Growing Details
Crested Dog's-tail thrives in well-drained, fertile loamy soils and prefers full sun to partial shade. Before planting, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as compost to enhance fertility. Mulching with straw or grass clippings can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. It pairs well with legumes like clover, which can fix nitrogen and improve soil health. Avoid overgrazing, as it can weaken the plant. Harvesting for hay should be timed just before flowering for optimal
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Cynosurus cristatus</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Europe and parts of Asia
applicable geo region: Temperate regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of Jun for 60 days
Harvest:
beginning
of August for 30 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(0/5)
edible uses:
Medicinal Rating:
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medicinal uses:
health concerns:
other uses: Crested Dog's-tail is often used as hay for livestock due to its palatability and nutritional content. It is also valued for its role in erosion control and as a cover crop in agroecological systems.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Cynosurus cristatus
common names: Crested Dog's-tail; Crested Dogtail; Creste
family: Poaceae
sub family: Pooideae
tribe: Cynosureae
sub tribe:
genus: Cynosurus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.1 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 15ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 20ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 15ยฐC / 5ยฐC / 25ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(5/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 10 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 0.6 m
max width: 0.3 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Crested Dog's-tail thrives in well-drained, fertile loamy soils and prefers full sun to partial shade. Before planting, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as compost to enhance fertility. Mulching with straw or grass clippings can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. It pairs well with legumes like clover, which can fix nitrogen and improve soil health. Avoid overgrazing, as it can weaken the plant. Harvesting for hay should be timed just before flowering for optimal
Potential Disturbances: Crested Dog's-tail is generally pest-free but may occasionally be affected by rusts and smuts. To manage these naturally, encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which can help control pest populations. Planting garlic or chives nearby can also help deter fungal infections. Regular monitoring and maintaining plant health through proper soil management can prevent most issues.
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