Relatives

Agropyron erickssonii (Meld.) Peschkova - Ericksson crested wheatgrass

Systematic position.

Family Poaceae Benth. Sort Agropyron Gaertn.

Morphology and biology.

This species is a perennial cereal. It forms tussocks. Stalks reach heights of 20-45 cm; numerous; direct or abruptly bent at the bottom nodes, elsewhere along the stalk or in the top part; the top part is usually densely pubescent, having long, twisting hairs. Leaves slightly deflexed from the stalk, flat or curtailed, below non-pubescent or slightly rough, above exhibiting velvety pubescence. Spikes are dense, 1.5-4 cm long, 1-1.5 cm wide and slightly narrowed at the top. The axis of the spikelet has sparse, very short spinules. Spikelets and the bottom floral scales are long and densely haired. This species is anemophilous. Chromosome number is unknown, possibly 14.

Distribution.

This species is distributed throughout Tuva and Mongolia.

Ecology.

This species grows in the mountain-steppe belt, in petrous break stone steppes, on steppe meadows and sandy hills.

Use and economic value.

This species is used as a fodder plant.

Reference citations:

Malyshev, L.I. & G.A. Peshkova, eds. 1990. Flora of Siberia. V. 2. Poaceae (Gramineae). Novosibirsk: Nauka. 361 pp.

© Malyshev L.L.