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Intermediate wheatgrass as a dual use crop for grain and grazing
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The Land Institute is domesticating the perennial oilseed silflower, a sunflower relative native to the Great Plains, for its ability to combine oilseed production with the ecological benefits of a perennial prairie plant.
With its deep roots and drought-tolerant characteristics, the perennial oilseed silflower (Silphium integrifolium) produce oil, support pollinators, and protect soils. Silflower has the ability access groundwater at depths upwards of 4-6 feet, eliminating the need for frequent irrigation and making it more resilient to short-term droughts than annual crops.
Silflower is also a strong candidate for intercropping systems and is expected to provide soil protection and carbon sequestration. Additionally, silflower provides good habitat for earthworms, hoverflies, native bees, Monarch butterflies, and honeybees.
Researchers are working to achieve high-yielding silflower for use in commercial oilseed production as a substitute for sunflower, canola, and soy.
To ensure productivity in the field, we are breeding silflower for rust resistance and improving organic pest management strategies.
To breed silflower for different latitudes, climates, and soil types around the world, we look to expand our global research capacity dedicated to researching silflower across the US and internationally in countries like Argentina.
