Yorkshire Fog
Holcus lanatus
Also listed as Nothoholcus lanatus, Aira holcus-lanata
Also known as Common Velvet Grass, Velvetgrass, Meadow Soft Grass
Climate Match for your location
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Yorkshire fog is a vigorous perennial grass with soft, hairy foliage that tolerates a wide range of conditions. It is commonly found in pastures and meadows and spreads readily in cool, moist climates.
Why grow it
Yorkshire fog establishes readily in poorly drained soils and cool climates where many forage grasses struggle, making it useful for pastures and rough grazing on wet ground. It tolerates poor fertility and acidic conditions better than perennial ryegrass, though it is generally lower in nutritional value and palatability. Its soft foliage and rapid growth can provide quick ground cover, but superior alternatives exist for high-productivity pasture systems.
Watch out for
Yorkshire fog tends to dominate in wet conditions and can crowd out more desirable species in mixed swards if not managed with attention to stocking rate and seasonal grazing timing. The plant's vigor means it will require active management in diverse plantings to prevent it from becoming dominant.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Poaceae
Native Range
European
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Yorkshire fog is a vigorous perennial grass with soft, hairy foliage that tolerates a wide range of conditions. It is commonly found in pastures and meadows and spreads readily in cool, moist climates.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Yorkshire Fog grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Yorkshire fog establishes readily in poorly drained soils and cool climates where many forage grasses struggle, making it useful for pastures and rough grazing on wet ground. It tolerates poor fertility and acidic conditions better than perennial ryegrass, though it is generally lower in nutritional value and palatability. Its soft foliage and rapid growth can provide quick ground cover, but superior alternatives exist for high-productivity pasture systems.
Watch out for
Yorkshire fog tends to dominate in wet conditions and can crowd out more desirable species in mixed swards if not managed with attention to stocking rate and seasonal grazing timing. The plant's vigor means it will require active management in diverse plantings to prevent it from becoming dominant.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Poaceae
Native Range
European
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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