Holcus mollis is a rhizomatous perennial grass found in woods and hedgerows, growing to 50 centimetres (20 in) tall.

The main distinguishing characteristics from H. lanatus are the presence of rhizomes, and the bearded nodes or 'hairy knees' on the culm.

[1] Holcus mollis is favoured by conditions in woodland clearings and at the early stages of coppicing.

The caterpillars of some Lepidoptera use it as a food plant, e.g. the Essex skipper (Thymelicus lineola).

[1]: 263 A pentaploid variant of H. mollis is common in Britain; it is sterile but spreads vegetatively.