Cenchrus setaceus, commonly known as African foxtail grass or simply foxtail grass, is a plant species belonging to the family Poaceae.
It is native to Africa and has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America and Australia, where it is considered an invasive species.
It is adapted to a wide range of soil types and can tolerate drought and heat stress.
Foxtail grass is a perennial grass that grows in dense, bushy clumps up to 1-2 meters in height.
Foxtail grass is also considered an invasive weed that can have negative impacts on the environment.
It can outcompete native plant species, leading to reduced biodiversity and ecosystem disruption.
The plant is difficult to control once established, and its sharp, spiny seed heads can pose a hazard to livestock and wildlife.
Therefore, it is important to take measures to control the spread of foxtail grass and to prevent its introduction into new areas.
This can include removing plants manually or with herbicides, and planting native species in areas where foxtail grass has been removed.
The plant is primarily used as an ornamental grass in landscaping, but it also has some medicinal properties.
In traditional medicine, various parts of the foxtail grass plant have been used to treat a range of ailments, including respiratory infections, stomach disorders, and skin diseases.