Description

Agropyron desertorum, Standard Crested Wheatgrass (Desert Wheatgrass) (Introduced)

Very similar to Fairway Crested Wheatgrass except it is larger, 1½ – 3 ft. tall, more robust, later maturing and slightly more drought-tolerant. Minimum precip. is 6 – 8 inches. Plant fall or spring ¼ – ½ inch deep. 194,000 seeds/lb.

Named releases: ‘Nordan’ (Cultivar) Released in 1953 from ND AES. Good seedling vigor, good long term forage yields, very palatable in spring and fall.

‘Hycrest’ (Cultivar) Released in 1984 as a hybrid between A.cristatum and A.desertorum with excellent seedling vigor. Can establish in as low as 8 inches precip. Will establish in adapted sites from 2,500 – 9,000 ft. on all well drained soil textures. CD-II released by Logan, UT ARS is a selection of Hycrest, which has increased growth characteristics in cold temperatures.

USDA: Plant Profile | Plant Guide | Fact Sheet