Sudangrass

Abstract

Sudangrass (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) was introduced into Texas in the early 1900s and soon became established as an important pasture crop. After its introduction, many improved varieties were developed. They have greater disease resistance, sweeter stems, less toxic chemical content, and more leaves than previous varieties. This is the same species as cultivated sorghum. In recent years, sorghum-sudangrass hybrids were developed that produce a higher yield of forage and have increased vigor, making the plants more resistant to adverse conditions. Hybrids also recover and grow back more rapidly following harvest than the older sudangrass varieties.