Super Napier Pakchong 1, often simply called Super Napier or Pakchong, is a sterile interspecific hybrid forage grass developed in the late 1960s at the Pakchong Research Station in Thailand by Dr. Krailas Kiyothong and his team. It results from crossing African Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum, also known as Elephant grass) with Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum).
This "King of Napier" varieties stands out for its superior performance compared to traditional Napier grasses. Key characteristics include:
High Yield: It can produce 180-200 tons (or more) of fresh green biomass per acre annually, with harvests possible 7-8 times a year (every 45-60 days after the initial 90-day cut). It grows rapidly, often reaching 2-3 meters in height.
Nutritional Value: Crude protein levels of 16-18% (significantly higher than the 5-10% in ordinary Napier), along with good fiber, minerals (calcium, magnesium, etc.), and vitamins, making it excellent for dairy cattle, beef animals, and other livestock to boost milk production and weight gain.
Physical Traits: Wider, smoother, greener leaves (6-8 cm long), thick juicy stems, and overall more palatable and attractive fodder.
Adaptability: Tolerant to drought, flooding, and a wide range of soils (including marginal or saline), with better pest and disease resistance than parent varieties.
Management: Propagated via stem cuttings or slips (it is sterile and does not produce viable seeds). It is perennial and supports multi-cut systems but is best used as green chop or silage rather than hay due to high moisture.
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