Polypogon monspeliensis, commonly known as annual beard-grass or annual rabbitsfoot grass, is an annual herb that is indigenous to parts of Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It has been introduced to many other parts of the world, including North and South America, where it can sometimes become a noxious weed. This grass typically grows to a height of 10-70 centimeters and forms dense tufts. It has a distinctive appearance with narrow leaves and a fluffy, pale green to purplish inflorescence that resembles a rabbit’s foot, which appears in the summer months.

Annual beard-grass is often found in disturbed sites, such as roadsides and fields, and can tolerate a range of soil types, though it prefers moist conditions. It is not commonly cultivated but can be used for erosion control or as a temporary ground cover in some situations. Due to its invasive potential, it is important to monitor and manage its growth to prevent it from displacing native vegetation. In areas where it is not invasive, it can provide habitat for wildlife.CC BY-SA 4.0