Small Leaf Timothy (Phleum bertolonii)

Small Leaf Timothy grass (Phleum bertolinii) is primarily used in environmanetal type grass seed mixtures and as a companion grass for wildflowers. It shares similar qualities with the more common Timothy grass (Phleum pratense) in terms of nutritional value and palatability for livestock such as horses, cattle, and sheep. However, Small Leaf Timothy is less productive in terms of yeild and is seldom used for this prupose.

Small Leaf Timothy grass (Phleum bertolinii) can be identified by several key characteristics. It typically grows in dense tufts and reaches heights of about 30-90 cm (1-3 feet). The leaves are narrow, fine-textured, and smooth, with blades that may be slightly folded or flat. The leaf edges are finely serrated. The flowering stems appear in early to mid-summer and are cylindrical and dense, forming compact spike-like panicles that are 5-15 cm (2-6 inches) long. The spikelets are densely packed and alternate along the stem. Each spikelet contains several tiny flowers with feathery styles (stigmas) protruding from them, giving the flowering head a soft, brush-like appearance. Small Leaf Timothy grass is often found in meadows, pastures, and hayfields in cooler climates, and its characteristics closely resemble those of common Timothy grass (Phleum pratense), with which it is sometimes confused.

Small Leaf Timothy grass (Phleum nodosum) typically grows in cooler temperate regions. It is native to Europe and has been naturalized in parts of North America, where it is cultivated for forage production. This grass thrives in well-drained, fertile soils and is commonly found in meadows, pastures, and hayfields. It prefers cooler climates and is often grown in regions with moderate temperatures and sufficient rainfall. Small Leaf Timothy grass is valued for its ability to produce high-quality forage suitable for grazing and haymaking, making it an important species in livestock agriculture in these regions.

Yes, Small Leaf Timothy grass (Phleum bertolinii) is also known by several other names, including: Lesser Timothy, Small Timothy, Smaller Timothy, Lesser Cat's Tail, Smaller Cat's Tail.

The grass Timothy (Phleum pratense) gets its name from Timothy Hanson, an American farmer who promoted its cultivation in the early 18th century. According to the story, Timothy Hanson introduced the grass to farmers in New England, where it quickly gained popularity due to its suitability for hay production and feeding livestock. Over time, the grass became known simply as "Timothy" in honor of Timothy Hanson, the farmer who played a significant role in its promotion and adoption in agriculture.