Canary grass

Canary grass (on right) -
Image by Biodiversity Heritage Library

Canary grass is a relatively unknown cereal which is grown mainly for birdseed. This plant which belongs to the grasses family (Poaceae) originates from the Mediterranean region.

The name Canary grass may refer to its use as bird feed, but is more likely referring to the Canaries (Canary Islands) as the scientific name of this plant is Phalaris canariensis.

Most canary grass is produced in Canada and Thailand.

Names

Scientific
   Phalaris canariensis
English
   Canary grass
   Canary seed
   Kanariezaad
Spanish
   Alpiste
French
   Alpiste
   Alpiste des Canaries
   Blé des Canaries
   Millet long
German
   Echtes Glanzgras
   Kanariengras
Italian
   Scagliola

Taxonomy

Genus
   Phalaris
Family
   Poaceae
Order
   Poales

Basic information and facts

Origin:

Mediterranean region

Distribution:

Highest production in Canada, Thailand and Argentina, but also produced in small quantities in Australia, Czech Republic, Hungary and Uruguay.

Annual, biennial, or perennial:

Canary grass is an annual plant.

Height:

The plant height can vary from 0.6 to 1.8 meters.

Propagation:

Grown from seed.

Uses:

Used as a bird seed, often mixed with other seeds.

Crop categories

Cereals
Forage and fodder crops
Subtropical crops

Pictures