- Canary grass
Taxobox
name = Canary grass
image_width = 250px
regnum =Plant ae
divisio =Magnoliophyta
classis =Magnoliopsida
ordo =Poales
familia =Poaceae
genus = "Phalaris"
species = "P. canariensis"
binomial = "Phalaris canariensis"
binomial_authority = L.Canary Grass is a plant, "Phalaris canariensis" belonging to the family
Poaceae . Originally a native of theMediterranean region, it is now grown commercially in several parts of the world for bird seed, hence the name. This large, coarse grass has erect, hairless stems, usually from 2 to 6 feet (0.6- 1.8 meters) tall. Theligule is prominent and membranous, 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) long and rounded at the apex. The gradually tapering leaf blades are 3 1/2-10 inches (8.9-25.4 cm) long, 1/4-3/4 inch (0.6-1.9 cm) wide, flat, and often harsh on both surfaces. The compact panicles are erect or sometimes slightly spreading and range from 3-16 inches (7.6-40.6 cm) long with branches 1/2-1 1/2 inches (1.2-3.8 cm) long. Single flowers occur in dense clusters in May to mid-June or August.Inflorescence s are green or slightly purple at first, then become tan.The seeds are shiny brown. The seed is used as bird food, and is generally mixed withrapeseed and other seeds that cheapen it. It should be kept in a dry place and away from vermin. Industrially, a flour made from seed is employed in the manufacture of fine cotton goods and silk stuffs. In theCanary Islands ,Italy andNorth Africa , it is used as food.Reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea L.) is a perennial forage crop and a wild grass. Although heads of both crops are panicles, annual canary grass (Phalaris canariensis) heads resemble club wheat.
External links
* [http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/afcm/cangrass.html Alternative Field Crops Manual]
* [http://www.alpiste.com International Marketing of Canary Seed ]References
*Grocers
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