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Description
Triticum Turgidum Subsp. Durum, commonly known as durum wheat, is a cereal grain that is widely cultivated in dry regions of the world. It belongs to the Poaceae family and is considered a tetraploid species, meaning it has four sets of chromosomes. This crop is highly valued for its high protein content and gluten strength, which makes it ideal for making pasta, bread, and other baked goods.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Triticum |
Appearance
Durum wheat plants typically grow to a height of 3 to 4 feet and have long, narrow leaves that are blue-green in color. The grain heads are compact and cylindrical, with a length of 2 to 4 inches. The grains themselves are hard and yellow in color, with a high protein content and a semolina-like texture.
Care Guide
Durum wheat is a hardy crop that can grow in a wide range of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Durum wheat requires moderate amounts of water, but is tolerant of drought conditions.
- Fertilization: This crop benefits from regular fertilization with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
- Soil: Durum wheat grows best in well-draining soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun exposure.
- Hardiness Zones: Durum wheat is typically grown in zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Durum wheat is susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause stunted growth and reduce yields.
- Cutworms: These caterpillars can cut off young plants at the soil level.
- Fusarium head blight: This fungal disease can cause yield losses and reduce grain quality.
- Root rots: These soil-borne diseases can cause wilting, yellowing, and plant death.
Habitat
Durum wheat is typically grown in dry regions with high temperatures and low humidity, such as the Mediterranean, North Africa, and the Middle East. It is also grown in other parts of the world, including the United States, Canada, and Australia.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the main use of durum wheat?
A: Durum wheat is mainly used for making pasta, bread, and other baked goods.
Q: What is the protein content of durum wheat?
A: Durum wheat has a high protein content, ranging from 12% to 18%.
Q: What are the ideal soil conditions for growing durum wheat?
A: Durum wheat grows best in well-draining soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect durum wheat?
A: Durum wheat is susceptible to pests such as aphids and cutworms, as well as diseases such as fusarium head blight and root rots.
Related Plants
- Triticum aestivum (common wheat)
- Triticum dicoccum (emmer wheat)
- Triticum spelta (spelt wheat)
References
- Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. (n.d.). Durum Wheat. Retrieved from http://www.fao.org/agriculture/crops/thematic-sitemap/theme/spi/durum-wheat/en/
- University of California Agriculture & Natural Resources. (n.d.). Durum Wheat. Retrieved from https://ucanr.edu/sites/smallgrains/Durum_Wheat/
- U.S. National Plant Germplasm System. (n.d.). Triticum turgidum subsp. durum. Retrieved from https://npgsweb.ars-grin.gov/gringlobal/taxonomydetail.aspx?id=36488
