Rye is an annual, grown mostly as a winter annual. A long day plant 2. The kernel of rye is narrower than a wheat kernel. The kernel is naked. The lemma and palea thresh free when combined 5.
Rye is cross pollinated and sterility is frequent.
Stems of rye are longer and larger than wheat. Average plant height is 5 ft. The leaves are coarser and more blush in color than wheat. Prolific vegetative growth is typical. Well suited for use as green manure crop Extensive root system is why it outdoes wheat in dry climates 9.