Agropyron dasystachyum

Thickspike wheatgrass

Previous scientific name(s):Agropyron dasystachyum : Agropyron dasystachyum var. riparium : Agropyron dasystachyum var. riparum : Agropyron elmeri :

Old nomenclature: Agropyron dasystachyum. Strongly rhizomatous, long-lived, drought tolerant, perennial sod-former similar in appearance to Pascopyrum smithii but ripens about 3 weeks earlier. Adapted to a wide range of sites but does best on well-drained soils. Palatability generally good year-round for livestock and wildlife.

map
img
img
img

Varieties

Bannock A composite selection derived from six accessions in several western states. A long-lived, leafy variety with vigorous sod producing qualities. Superior drought tolerance and forage production. (Released 1995, source of ecotype: OR, WA, ID and CA)
Release Notice

Critana Developed for strong sodding ability in dry sites. Very strong seedling vigor - great for site stabilization. (Released 1971, source of ecotype: Havre, MT)
Release Notice

Schwendimar Selected for adaptation west of the Rocky Mountains. Produces more forage and is more drought tolerant than Critana. (Released 1994, source of ecotype: The Dalles, Oregon)
Release Notice


Variety Bannock Critana Schwendimar
Group Monocot Monocot Monocot
US Native Native Native Native
Life Form Perennial Perennial Perennial
Plant Type Graminoid Graminoid Graminoid
Active Growth Period Spring Spring Summer Spring Summer
Bloom Season Late Spring Mid Spring Mid Spring
Mature Height (feet) 1 2 2
Flower Color Yellow Yellow Yellow
Foliage Color Gray-Green Gray-Green Gray-Green
Fertility Needs Medium Medium Medium
Toxicity None None None
Fine Soil (adapted) Yes Yes No
Medium Soil (adapted) Yes Yes Yes
Coarse Soil (adapted) No Yes Yes
Salinity Tolerance High Low High
Shade Tolerance Intolerant Intolerant Intolerant
Moisture Requirements Medium Low Medium
Fire Resistant No No No
Fire Tolerance High High High
Seed Period Start Spring Spring Spring
Seed Period End Summer Summer Summer
Seed / lb 135000 153000 66000
Seedling Vigor High High High
Palatable (browser) High Medium High
Palatable (grazer) High High High