Bulbous foxtail (Alopecurus bulbosus, Hortus Monsp.: 37 (1762))

Family: Poaceae

Author: Gouan

Bibliography: Hortus Monsp.: 37 (1762)

Year: 1762

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Alopecurus

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: Coasts of W. Europe and Medit.

Description

Bulbous foxtail (Alopecurus bulbosus) is an intriguing grass species notable for its presence along the coastal regions of Western Europe and the Mediterranean. Described by the botanist Gouan in 1762 in his work “Hortus Monsp.,” this plant belongs to the Poaceae family, the dominant family of grasses that cover a substantial portion of the earth’s vegetation.

Alopecurus bulbosus thrives in saline environments typical of coastal areas, often forming dense patches in its preferred habitats. The plant is recognized for its bulbous base, which provides stability and a reservoir for nutrients, allowing it to survive in challenging soil conditions where other species might struggle. The bulbous nature of this grass not only aids in its survival but also gives it a unique appearance compared to other species within the Alopecurus genus.

The inflorescence of the Bulbous foxtail consists of dense, cylindrical spikes that resemble the tail of a fox, which is likely the inspiration behind its common name. This foxtail-like structure is not only distinctive but also functional, playing a critical role in the plant’s reproduction by facilitating the spread of its seeds via wind and water.

As a member of the Poaceae family, Bulbous foxtail contributes to the rich biodiversity of coastal ecosystems. Grasses in this family are essential for stabilizing soil with their extensive root systems and providing habitat and food resources for a myriad of wildlife species. Their ability to grow in nutrient-poor soils also highlights their ecological importance in disturbed or naturally harsh environments.

Understanding the growth patterns and ecological role of Alopecurus bulbosus can provide valuable insights into coastal management and conservation efforts. Its presence is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of grass species, offering a unique glimpse into the plant world’s ability to colonize and thrive in diverse habitats.

In the broader context of ecological studies, the Bulbous foxtail serves as an exemplary species for examining plant adaptations to saline and variable environments. Researchers and botanists continue to study this plant, contributing to our understanding of plant physiology and the potential applications in ecological restoration projects.

Common Names

Deu: zwiebel-fuchsschwanz, zwiebelfuchsschwanz
Eng: bulbous foxtail
Nld: knolvossenstaart
Fra: vulpin bulbeux
Swe: knölkavle, saltkavle
Cym: cadno oddfynog, cynffonwellt oddfog, cynwreiddiog, rhonwellt
En: Bulbous foxtail
Ca: Alopecur bulbós
Nl: Knolvossenstaart
Fr: Vulpin bulbeux
De: Knollen-Fuchsschwanz (Knollenfuchsschwanz), Knolliges Fuchsschwanzgras, Zwiebel-Fuchsschwanz / Zwiebelfuchsschwanz, Zwiebel-Fuchsschwanzgras, Zwiebel-Fuchsschwanz, Zwiebelfuchsschwanz
It: Coda di topo bulbosa
Sv: Knölkavle, Saltkavle
Cy: Cadno Oddfynog, Cynffonwellt Oddfog, Cynwreiddiog, Rhonwellt

Synonyms

• Alopecurus bulbosus subsp. macrostachyos ((Poir.) Trab.)
• Alopecurus macrostachyos (Poir.)
• Alopecurus salditanus (Trab.)
• Alopecurus palustris subsp. bulbosus ((Gouan) Syme)
• Alopecurus bulbosus var. macrostachyos ((Poir.) Coss. & Durieu)
• Tozzettia nodosa (Bubani)
• Alopecurus bulbosus var. tenuis (Laterr.)

Distribution

• Algeria (native)
• Belgium (native)
• Corse (native)
• France (native)
• Germany (native)
• Great Britain (native)
• Italy (native)
• Morocco (native)
• Netherlands (native)
• Sardegna (native)
• Sicilia (native)
• Spain (native)
• Tunisia (native)
• Turkey (native)
• Yugoslavia (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken May 19, 2004 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 2, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 2, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 2, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 2, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Apr 15, 2004 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)

Taken May 15, 1999 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)

Taken Apr 15, 2009 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)

Other

Taken May 2, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 2, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 2, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 2, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 2, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken May 15, 2006 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken May 15, 2006 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jan 15, 1995 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5672393)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:387047-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Alopecurus bulbosus Gouan)

Specifications

Growth