Annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.)

Abstract

Annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam. or Lolium perenne L. ssp. multiflorum (Lam.) Husnot, also called Italian ryegrass) is a coolseason annual bunchgrass native to southern Europe. It is closely related to perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.). Both are widely distributed throughout the world, including North and South America, Europe, New Zealand, and Australia. Annual ryegrass is an important shortduration grass. High palatability and digestibility make this species highly valued for forage/livestock systems. It is used in many environments when fast cover or quick feed is required. Characteristics include: • High yield potential • Fast establishment • Suitability for reduced-tillage renovation • Use on heavy and waterlogged soils Although an annual, in temperate climates, some types may behave as biennials, shortlived perennials, or perennials. Short-rotation ryegrasses (intermediates) are hybrids of L. perenne and L. multiflorum. Westerwolds ryegrass (L. multiflorum var. westerwoldicum) can be regarded as a group of ecotypes of annual ryegrass. They are more truly annuals than other types. Westerwolds are high yielding but have less heat tolerance than other types of annual ryegrass. Figure 1.—Annual ryegrass plant. inflorescence