Aira species - Hair-grasses

There are two species of these small distinctive grasses.

Aira praecox - Early Hair-grass

This tiny grass is compact, only about 12cm tall, often with reddish stems, and grows in clumps on rocky ground. Can be easiest to spot later in the season when it has dried out and lost its colour.

Aira caryophyllea - Silver Hair-grass

Inconspicuous, up to twice as tall as Aira praecox, and with spreading branches. Also likes stony places, including kerb edges and hard waste ground.