Triticale
(xTriticosecale spp.)
Triticale cultivars are genetically stable, self-pollinating hybrids resulting from a breeder's cross between wheat (Triticum) and rye (Secale). As early as 1875, breeders were seeking a crop that offered the vigor, hardiness, and adaptability of rye and wheat's disease resistance, productivity, and grain quality. Compared to wheat, Triticale tolerates environmental stresses better and is suited to a wider range of growing conditions.
Like wheat, triticale self-pollinates but unlike rye, it is not cross-pollinating.
Globally triticale is grown as a forage crop, for silage, and for grain. It is also researched as a bioenergy source. Our interest in triticale is as a feed grain. "Digestibility of triticale is similar to, or higher than, the digestibility of wheat for the nutrients measured. Total protein content tends to be higher than corn and similar to that of wheat."[1]
According to this article, Micromalting of Triticale, in the Journel of the Institute of Brewing, apparently triticale is even malted!
An interesting overview of Triticale: Alternative Field Crops Manual: Triticale
~~~~~
[1] Source: Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food & Rural Affairs: Wheat for Animal Feed
