taftra

Taftra is a common grass that has been domesticated and grown for the delicious seeds it produces in the early fall and winter, when planted as a subsequent crop. The straw is commonly used for bedding and feed.
It was brought to Karenth from Els'tar, but wild versions of the grass have been found natively.
Despite its usefulness, there are many pests that also like the grass and as such harvest yields tend to vary greatly from year to year. As such, prices tend to remain high as sellers always keep part of the previous years crop in storage in case a bad year should occur.
Taftra seed is finely ground as flour and coarsely ground as topping or to add texture to baked goods. The coarse flour is often times used on the bottom of baked goods when cooking to prevent them from sticking.
Taftra has been the preferred grain of the aristocracy and proclaimed a national treasure by kings. Common folk often do not get a chance to eat the grain as the price is to high to afford. Even the farmers of the grain tend to sell it and live on wheat, rye, rice, and barley.
Bumper crops have been known to turn paupers into wealthy individuals. Farmers normally keep seed on hand for two plantings as the loss of a crop could forever drive a farmer to bankrupcy.
Childrens stories often mention the grain and its uses in culinary treats such as muffins and pound cakes.

Basic Information

Growth Rate & Stages

Taftra is easily planted from the previous years seed and does not require scarifying. On good years, two crops can be planted with the first being harvested in early fall and the second, shorter season and yield crop being harvested in late fall or early winter. Some farmers also overwinter a crop in the hopes of getting a small mid spring harvest.