‘Grasslands Tiki’ smooth brome (Bromus inermisLeyss)

Abstract

‘Grasslands Tiki’ smooth brome (Bromus inermis Leyss) was bred from assorted material originating in Spain, Turkey, U.S.S.R., and Poland. It is intermediate in many respects between the distinct ‘northern’ and ‘southern’ strains of B. inermis used widely throughout the United States. It is tall, erect, sparsely-tillered, broad-leaved, and produces rhizomes. Tiki smooth brome is intended for use in the high regions of the South Island, where it has been shown to provide a large amount of high-quality forage through spring and summer. It is lower yielding than ‘Grasslands Hakari’ mountain brome in the first few years, but is much more productive and persistent once a strong rhizome base has built up. It is probably less productive in summer than cocksfoot, but has a higher digestibility and much less leaf disease.