COCKSFOOT GRASS : Dactylis glomerata
Also known as orchard grass or cat grass. Its cocksfoot name comes from the flower and seedhead shape.
All grasses may produce flowers, but of those found locally, this one is perhaps the most conspicuous. These flowers have a distinctive tufted, triangular flowerhead made up from several clumps of spikelets which hold the flowers. The colour of the flowers can change, depending on the time of year, but they are mostly green with red or purple. Those in our example are green with the yellow stamens giving them a more overall yellow appearance.
In due course it it will loose its bright colours and produces dense and spiky seedheads when first emerging, becoming open and branched as it matures.
Cocksfoot grass is grown for hay and a grazing plant for livestock. It was very popular in the 18th century for its drought resistance and improvement of soil by increasing humus content.
WOODLAND TRUST : https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/plants/grasses-and-sedges/cocksfoot-grass/
