The 'Lyra' orchardgrass variety (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) is known for its high winter hardiness and drought resistance, making it suitable for cultivation on various soil types. Plants reach a height of 260‑280 cm, with thin, cylindrical stems, flat, narrow, and dark green leaves. Orchardgrass seeds are elongated, short-bristled, up to 3 mm in length, with a grayish-brown hue; the mass of 1000 seeds ranges from 1.4 to 2.2 g.
The variety is characterized by medium maturity: the vegetative period starts from the beginning of spring regrowth and ends with the first mowing after 47‑65 days, while full seed maturity is achieved after 80‑113 days. Thanks to its soft seed coat, 'Lyra' ensures good germination and resistance to major orchardgrass diseases such as smut, root rot, leaf spots, rust (Puccinia graminis), loose smut (Ustilago spp.), and powdery mildew. The variety also shows resistance to pests.
With proper care, dry matter yield can reach 15 t/ha, with seeds yielding 500 to 600 kg/ha. Thanks to these characteristics, 'Lyra' is suitable for both hay and pasture use, providing stable production even under limited irrigation.
