Description of Kaskaskia Soft Red Winter Wheat

by Fred Kolb, Crop Sciences

Kaskaskia is a soft red winter wheat variety released by the Agricultural Experiment Station of the University of Illinois. Some noteworthy attributes of Kaskaskia are high yield potential, excellent test weight, and excellent winter hardiness. Kaskaskia heads several days earlier than Cardinal and is about the same height or slightly taller than Cardinal. Kaskaskia is bearded and has tan chaff at maturity. Because of very erect flag leaves and unique twisting and lengthwise curling of the flag leaves Kaskaskia has a very distinctive appearance after heading. Kaskaskia is moderately resistant to soil borne wheat mosaic virus and wheat spindle streak mosaic virus, and resistant to some races of leaf rust. Kaskaskia is susceptible to stem rust, and powdery mildew. Up to 0.5 % other types, including tall variants are allowed. Except for the difference in height, the tall variants are very similar in appearance to other plants in the variety; however, some variants may not be awned. Recognized classes of seed of Kaskaskia will be Foundation and Certified. Plant Variety Protection of Kaskaskia under Title V has been applied for. A research assessment fee of $0.60 will be collected on each bushel (60 lb.) of Certified seed sold.