RED TOP

Agrostis gigantea

 

 

Forage type

 

A perennial grass species, short in growth habit, loosely tufted and rhizome-forming. Red top is characterized by a late onset of vegetation, and has rather high temperature requirements, hence it stops growing in early autumn. It is however quite winter hardy. Red top has high moisture requirements and grows best on wet stands. It is tolerant to prolonged flooding and withstands 45 days of immersion.

 

Peaty soils with unregulated water supply are a natural environment for this species. Red top has a high nutritive value.