Tef
Eragrostis teffam. Poaceae
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Pl. 01CA — Eragrostis tef
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IOverview
Overview
Tef, scientifically known as Eragrostis tef, is an annual graminoid that thrives in the dry and moist environments of Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Tanzania, and Uganda. This versatile plant has been cultivated for centuries and is particularly well-suited to light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. Tef grows up to 1 meter in height and requires full sun with a hardiness range of zones 8-11. It is widely recognized as an edible crop, with its seeds being the primary part used for consumption.
Quick answers
What is Tef?
Tef, scientifically known as Eragrostis tef, is an annual graminoid that thrives in the dry and moist environments of Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Tef thrives in full sun and can grow in various soil types, from light sandy to medium and heavy clay soils. It prefers dry to moist conditions and is hardy in zones 8-11. As an annual graminoid reaching up to 1 meter in height, tef requires consistent moisture during its growing period but can tolerate some drought once established. For propagation, seeds can be sown directly into the garden soil after the last frost.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-11
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Graminoid
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Tef for the first time
8steps
Tef is a versatile grain that's easy to grow for beginners, especially in warm climates.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds, a small trowel or scoop, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Tef seeds from late spring to early summer when the soil is warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining spot with light to medium soil. Ensure containers are at least 30 cm deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Sow seeds directly into the ground, spacing them about 15 cm apart in rows 45 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Thin seedlings if they grow too close together.
- 6
Ongoing care
Tef requires little maintenance once established. Water only during dry spells and remove weeds as needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Cut the mature plants down to ground level when seeds are fully ripe, usually after 3-4 months.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too early in cold soil, and not providing enough space between seedlings.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: The tef seed is the primary edible part of this plant. It can be eaten raw or cooked and is commonly used to make flour for bread and other foods. The seeds are also ground into a fine powder for use in various dishes.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
9 native · 21 introduced
Distribution
9 native · 21 introducedDistribution across4 continents· 9 native· 21 introduced
Europe2 regions
introduced (2)BelgiumUkraine
Asia3 regions
native (2)Saudi ArabiaYemen
introduced (1)Myanmar
Africa15 regions
native (7)DjiboutiEritreaEthiopiaKenyaSomaliaTanzaniaUganda
introduced (8)AngolaBotswanaLesothoMadagascarMalawiMauritaniaMozambiqueNamibia
Oceania1 region
introduced (1)New Caledonia
Broader regions
introduced:Argentina Northwest, Brazil North, Cape Provinces, Free State, Jawa, KwaZulu-Natal, Nansei-shoto, New South Wales, Northern Provinces
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Poaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Poaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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