Morphology and Floral Biology Teff is a warm season annual grass, characterized by a large crown, many tillers, and a shallow diverse root system. Teff germplasm is characterized by a wide variation of morphological and agronomic traits. Panicle types vary from loose, lax, compact, multiple branching multi-lateral and unilateral loose to compact forms. Grain color ranges from pale white to ivory white and from very light tan to deep brown to reddish brown purple. Teff is a self pollinating chasmogamous plant.
Floret colors vary from white to dark brown.
Ecology Teff is adapted to environments ranging from drought stress to water logged soil conditions. Teff is day length sensitive and flowers best during 12 hours of daylight. Late plantings have the advantage to control emerged weeds by tillage prior to planting, which can be significant since teff is a poor competitor with weeds during the early growth stages. Seedbed should be firm and prepared similar to planting for alfalfa. Teff germinates rapidly, and the broadcast and narrow row seeding allow for stronger weed competition.