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desert wheatgrass

Scientific Name: Agropyron desertorum

Family: Poaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Graminoid

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Desert Wheatgrass (Agropyron desertorum)

Desert Wheatgrass, scientifically known as Agropyron desertorum, is also commonly called Clustered Wheat Grass, Desert Crested Wheatgrass, and Standard Crested Wheatgrass. It is closely related to other wheatgrasses, some of which are generically referred to as crested wheatgrass.

Considerations for Pets

  • Wheatgrasses, including Desert Wheatgrass, are often grown as a food source for pets.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Agropyron desertorum (Fisch. ex Link) Schult.
  • Family: Poaceae (Grass family)
  • Genus: Agropyron
  • Species: desertorum
  • Synonyms: Includes references to Agropyron cristatum ssp., although the exact taxonomic relationship requires further clarification.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Desert Wheatgrass is native to Asia.
  • It is described as growing well in areas with minimal frost.

Ecological Role

  • It is noted as being included in "Invasive Species Most Unwanted," suggesting it can be considered invasive in certain environments.
  • Desert Wheatgrass is a useful dryland grass and a vital forage species, meaning it plays a role in providing food for grazing animals.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • It is a perennial grass that forms dense turf.
  • Stems alone can grow to be 25-50 cm.

Genetic Information

  • Studies have evaluated genetic diversity in Iranian populations using morphological traits.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • The text mentions the influence of soil salinity and annual weeds on its forage yield.
  • It's used in studies related to controlling weeds like Halogeton.

Quirky Facts

  • Desert Wheatgrass is used in developments and residential areas, with street addresses like "Desert Wheatgrass Drive" found in places like Myrtle Beach, SC.

Further Information

  • Encyclopaedia Britannica is mentioned as a source of information.
  • USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database is mentioned with a photo.
  • ARS (Agricultural Research Service) in Logan, Utah, is referenced in the context of developing Hycrest Crested Wheatgrass.
  • Discover Life has a page dedicated to the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Desert Wheatgrass.