Abstract

A new tall fescue variety (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) named ‘Purumi’ was developed by the National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, South Korea from 1999 to 2007. For synthetic seed production of this new variety, 5 superior clones: EFa9108, EFa0010, EFa0020, EFa0108 and EFa0202were selected and polycrossed. The agronomic growth characteristics and forage production capability of the seeds were studied at Cheonan from 2004 to 2005, and regional trials were conducted in Cheonan, Pyungchang, Jeju and Jinju from 2008 to 2010. Purumi showed enhanced winter hardiness, disease resistance, and regrowth ability as compared to Fawn. The dry matter yield of Purumi was about 5.6% (16.821 kg/ha) higher than that of Fawn. However, the nutritive value of both varieties was similar. Since this new variety of tall fescue, Purumi has been developed and distributed with its most remarkable adaptability for Korean climates and superior value as a livestock feed, it is expected to play an important role in restoration of the pasture industry in Korea.

Key words: Tall fescue, Purumi, variety, forage, grassland.

Abbreviation

 CP, Crude protein; TDN, total digestible nutrients; IVDMD, in vitro dry matter digestibility; ADF, acid detergent fiber; NDF, neutral detergent fiber.