Abstract: In this study, the growth and development of four representative natural forage varieties, including Elymus sibiricus, Astragalus membranaceus, Geranium wilfordii and Achillea millefolium, in the typical mountain meadow steppe on the northern slope of central Tianshan mountains were assessed. The results showed that the height variation of the four forage varieties exhibited a ＂slow-fast-slow＂ tendency, which was in accordance with the basic growth rule of plants; while the growth rate of Elymus sibiricus, Achillea millefolium and Geranium wilfordii was relatively faster during returning green stage and tillering stage, Astragalus membranaceus had a faster growth rate at the beginning of returning green stage; after the tillering stage, the growth rate of the four forage varieties became slower; the highest coverage and yield were observed in June and July.