HoCP 09-804 was derived from a cross made between HoCP 02-625 as the female parent and HoCP 01-523 as the male parent (Anonymous, 2016). The variety was released in 2016. HoCP 09-804 produces a high population of small-diameter stalks. The variety stubbles well, is early maturing and has good cold tolerance. The following pictures will show different characteristics to help identify HoCP 09-804.

1. Canopy – Erect.

2. Stalk wax – Slight to moderate wax; the black color that can be prevalent is sooty mold from fungal growth.

3. Stalk color under the wax layer – Yellowish green that becomes darker green with exposure to the sun.

4. Leaf sheath – Smooth (no pubescence).

5. Leaf sheath margin – Generally green and similar to the leaf sheath.

6. Dewlap – Dark and becomes green at the base of the midrib of the leaf.

7. Auricle – Slight to none.

8. Distinguishing characteristics – Has the most erect canopy of any variety grown in Louisiana; has a high population of small-diameter stalks.