Contents
Description
Thinopyrum intermedium, also known as intermediate wheatgrass, is a perennial grass that is native to Europe and Asia. It belongs to the Poaceae family and is commonly used as a source of forage and a cover crop in the United States. It has a deep root system that can reach up to 6 feet, making it drought-tolerant and able to withstand harsh environmental conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Thinopyrum |
Appearance
Thinopyrum intermedium has flat, narrow leaves that can grow up to 3 feet long. Its stems can reach up to 4 feet in height and are covered in fine hairs. Its inflorescence is a spike-like panicle that can grow up to 8 inches long and is composed of small, greenish flowers. Its seeds are small, oval-shaped, and brown in color.
Care Guide
To care for Thinopyrum intermedium, it is important to provide it with adequate water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and choose the right hardiness zones.Water: This grass prefers well-drained soil and requires moderate watering. It can tolerate drought but will grow best with consistent moisture.Fertilization: Thinopyrum intermedium requires nitrogen-rich fertilizers to thrive. It should be fertilized in the spring and fall to promote healthy growth.Soil: This grass prefers alkaline soil with a pH of 6.0 to 8.5. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.Sunlight: This grass prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It should be planted in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: Thinopyrum intermedium is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Thinopyrum intermedium is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to leaf rust and stem rust. These fungal diseases can be controlled with fungicides and proper cultural practices. It can also be affected by aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Thinopyrum intermedium is native to Europe and Asia but is widely cultivated in the United States. It can grow in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and pastures. It is commonly used as a forage crop and as a cover crop to prevent soil erosion.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Thinopyrum intermedium a good source of forage?
A: Yes, Thinopyrum intermedium is commonly used as a source of forage for livestock.
Q: Can Thinopyrum intermedium be used as a cover crop?
A: Yes, Thinopyrum intermedium is often used as a cover crop to prevent soil erosion and improve soil health.
Q: How tall can Thinopyrum intermedium grow?
A: Thinopyrum intermedium can grow up to 4 feet in height.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Thinopyrum intermedium?
A: Thinopyrum intermedium is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Related Plants
- Thinopyrum bessarabicum
- Thinopyrum elongatum
- Thinopyrum intermedium subsp. barbulatum
- Thinopyrum junceiforme
- Thinopyrum ponticum
References
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=THIN2
- https://extension.umn.edu/forages/intermediate-wheatgrass
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/graminoid/thiint/all.html
