WILD OATS

Wild oats, an important component of the state’s grassland, were imported to Southern California by the Spaniards during the latter half of the 18th Century.

The robust grass, along with other animal forage, was grown around the missions to feed massive herds of grazing livestock. The aggressive European grass spread and eventually became dominant over native vegetation.

Today, wild oats (Avena fatua) are naturalized at low elevations throughout California. Common weeds along roadsides, fields and fences, wild oats grow best in rich valley soils, where a single plant often produces many spikelets. In thin or sandy soils, the grass produces only a few spikelets.

Wild oats usually grow two to three feet tall, but, under ideal conditions, can reach heights of up to six feet. The plant’s foliage is somewhat hairy.

The spikelets usually produce three tiny florets. But, at times, two or even four florets are found. Florets readily separate at maturity. Spikelets are usually an inch or less long.

Wild oat seeds are eaten readily by wildlife. The individual plants are considered decorative and frequently are used in dried floral bouquets. Pictured here are wild oats growing along Lake Hughes Road in Castaic.

The cultivated oat (Avena sativa), one of the most valuable of cereal grains, is believed to have been derived from the common wild oat.