Kleingrass

Species: Kleingrass (Panicum coloratum L.)
Cultivars: Selection 75, ‘OKPC’ (from Oklahoma), Verde
Origin: Africa
Use: Grazing, hay.
Description:
General:
Life Span:		 3-4 feet tall, bunchgrass, purple coloration around nodes.
Perennial
Adaptation:
pH:
Soil:

Rainfall:
Temperature:

 5.5-7.5
Sandy-loam, blacklands, variety of clays, high salinity tolerance.
18-30 inches.
7º F (minimum). Lacks cold tolerance (may winter kill in north Texas).
Management:
Seeding Rate:
Planting Date:
Planting Depth:
Seed Cost:
Season of Use:
Production:		 1.5-2.0 lb PLS/A
March-May, blooms in April – Seeds (May-Sept).
<0.25-0.50 inch
$10-12/A
June-September
4000-6000 lb/A
Notes:
  • Ranchers in North Central Texas have reported Crude Protein concentration (CP) up to 16%.
  • Important forage plant in the 18-30 inch rainfall belt.
  • Cultivar ‘OKPC’ more cold tolerant than ‘Selection 75’.
  • When hayed, growth tends to be more lateral compared to the clumpy growth when grazed.
  • Stubble height to leave is 6-8 inches.
  • Good pasture to use in summer to allow the periodic rest other native forages require.
  • Grazing should be deferred until new plants are well established.
  • High quality forage.
  • Toxic for horses and goats (causes photosensitization).

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