🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Teff is primarily cultivated as a grain crop. Its seeds are gluten-free and highly nutritious, making them a valuable food source. The straw can be used as animal fodder or for building materials. In permaculture systems, it can be used as a cover crop to improve soil health and prevent erosion, especially in areas with short growing seasons. No subspecies or cultivars are especially relevant for permaculture applications beyond those bred for grain yield.
Permapeople description
Eragrostis tef, also known as teff, Williams lovegrass or annual bunch grass, is an annual grass, a species of lovegrass native to the highlands of Ethiopia and Eritrea. It is cultivated as a grain.
Botanical description
Eragrostis tef is an annual grass species native to Ethiopia and Eritrea. It typically grows to a height of 0.4 to 1.2 meters (1.3 to 3.9 feet). The stems are slender and erect, branching from the base. The leaves are linear and alternate, with smooth margins. The inflorescence is a loose, open panicle, ranging from 15 to 40 cm (6 to 16 inches) long. The spikelets are small and contain 3-12 florets. The grains are very small, about 1 mm in diameter, and range in color from white to dark brown. The root system is fibrous and shallow.
Companion planting
Teff is often grown as a monoculture. There is limited documented information about specific companion plants. Its allelopathic potential has not been rigorously investigated, but it generally doesn't seem to strongly inhibit other plants. It might be effectively intercropped with legumes or other nitrogen-fixing plants to improve soil fertility, but this requires further research.
Propagation methods
Teff is primarily propagated by seed. Seeds can be directly sown into the field or started indoors and transplanted. Broadcasting the seeds is a common method. It can also self-seed if not harvested, but it's usually cultivated intentionally.
History and traditions
Teff has been cultivated in Ethiopia for thousands of years, dating back to at least 3000 BCE. It is a staple food in Ethiopia and Eritrea, used to make injera, a traditional flatbread. Historically, teff was also used as a ceremonial grain and for medicinal purposes. Its cultivation has expanded to other parts of the world, including the United States, due to its gluten-free properties and nutritional value.
Usage calendar
Planting: Spring after the last frost. Flowering: Summer. Harvesting: Late Summer to Fall (approximately 3-4 months after planting). There is no specific pruning needed for teff.