forb

Forb is a term used in botany and ecology to describe herbaceous flowering plants that are not grasses, sedges, or rushes. In ecological contexts, forbs are broad-leaved, non-woody plants that occupy grasslands, meadows, prairies, and similar habitats. The term is not a taxonomic rank; rather it refers to an ecological grouping based on growth form and life history.

Forbs are typically herbaceous, lacking persistent woody stems, and can be annuals, biennials, or perennials. They vary widely in size, leaf shape, and flower form. Common examples include dandelion, clover, buttercups, coneflowers, and goldenrods. Forbs are important sources of nectar and pollen for a range of insects, and they contribute to plant diversity in mixed-grass and wildflower communities.

Ecologically, forbs play several key roles. They provide forage for grazing animals, influence soil structure and nutrient cycling, and affect the composition and trajectory of plant communities, especially after disturbance. In restoration and land management, forb diversity is often encouraged to support pollinators, stabilize soils, and reduce erosion. In horticulture, forbs are valued in pollinator-friendly gardens and wildflower meadows.

Relation to weeds and cultivation: Some forbs are considered weeds in lawns or pastures, while many are prized forage species, ornamentals, or parts of restoration seed mixes. They are distinguished from grasses, sedges, and woody plants by their herbaceous habit and broad leaves, rather than by a precise taxonomic grouping.