Hordeum deficiens
Hordeum deficiensfam. Poaceae
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Pl. F2C9 — Hordeum deficiens
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IOverview
Overview
Hordeum deficiens, known as Skip in common parlance and belonging to the Poaceae family, is an annual plant native to Iraq. This cereal grass thrives in moist conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. It requires full sun for optimal growth. While primarily grown for its edible seeds, Skip also serves as a distinctive ornamental plant due to its adaptability and resilience. Its presence in the landscape is marked by its ability to grow in various soil types and its requirement for ample sunlight.
Quick answers
What is Hordeum deficiens?
Hordeum deficiens, known as Skip in common parlance and belonging to the Poaceae family, is an annual plant native to Iraq. This cereal grass thrives in moist conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. It requires full sun for optimal growth.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Hordeum deficiens thrives in full sun and requires moist conditions. It prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. This annual plant is native to Iraq and grows well in temperate regions. For cultivation, ensure the soil is fertile and well-drained while maintaining consistent moisture levels. Harvest the edible parts—seeds—when they are fully mature.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
For first-time growers
How to grow Hordeum deficiens for the first time
7steps
Skip is a straightforward annual plant for beginners to grow from seed.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds, potting soil, containers or garden space, water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost when temperatures are consistently above 10°C (50°F).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining potting mix. For containers, choose pots at least 20 cm (8 inches) wide. In gardens, prepare soil by loosening it to a depth of about 30 cm (12 inches).
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1-2 cm (0.4-0.8 inches) deep and 5-7 cm (2-3 inches) apart in rows. Alternatively, start seeds indoors a few weeks before planting outside.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide full sun exposure to help the seedlings grow strong.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells, ensuring the soil remains moist but not soggy. Fertilize lightly with a balanced plant food every 4-6 weeks.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Once the seed heads are fully mature and dry, cut them off for harvesting. Prune any dead leaves to maintain plant health.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: The seed of Hordeum deficiens is edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. It is often used in soups and stews for added nutrition. The plant thrives in moist conditions with light to medium soil, making it suitable for cultivation in similar environments.
Other uses:BiomassFiberMulchtextiles
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 29 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 29 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 1 native· 29 introduced
Europe10 regions
introduced (10)AlbaniaAustriaBelarusBelgiumRomaniaRussiaSpainSwedenSwitzerlandUkraine
Asia6 regions
native (1)Iraq
introduced (5)AfghanistanChinaTurkeyTurkmenistanUzbekistan
Africa2 regions
introduced (2)AlgeriaTunisia
Broader regions
introduced:Western Australia, Sakhalin, South Australia, Tadzhikistan, Tasmania, Transcaucasus, Turkey-in-Europe, Victoria, Queensland, Yugoslavia, Amur
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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