Botanical Name of Oat Straw: Avena sativa.Other Common Names:Avena sativa, Groats, herb oats, oatgrass, oats, wild oats.<br>
Habitat:Oat straw grows in moderate temperatures such as Northern Europe. It grows well in dry wastelands, cultivated ground and meadows alike. It is a hardy zone 2-type plant that can be grown in heavier soils although it normally prefers sandy or loamy soils. It requires good drainage but can grow in a high acid soil. It does require sun, and cannot grow in the shade. Oat straw tolerates drought well. Although it is widely distributed as a cereal crop it is just as often found in garden beds, or planted to prevent soil erosion. The fruit, seeds and straw are typically gathered in August.
Plant Description:The oat straw plant is an annual grass. It stands erect with a flat, rough, but elongated leaf. It has a golden seed shaped much like a spindle. It is in flower during June and July. The seeds ripen from August to October. The flowers have both male and female organs, and are pollinated by the wind.
Plant Parts Used: Grain, straw, and seed. When the seed is harvested and dried – also in late summer – it can be stored for several years. It has a texture similar to flour and puts forth a mild, creamy flavor.<br>Seea lso :* [[Oats]]* [[Oatmeal]]
==Special Precautions of Oat Straw==
There are no known drug or nutrient interaction associated with the use of oat straw but if you are allergic to oat flour it could be a good idea to stay clear of any products containing oat straw. Because oat straw contains gluten those suffering from celiac disease should avoid it in any form.