Hybrid ryegrass is a cross between perennial and Italian ryegrass combining yield, quality and persistence. Types range from perennial ryegrass to intermediate and Italian types.

Usage has mainly been for conservation, but the new perennial types have proved to be excellent for grazing.

Hybrid ryegrass has improved drought tolerance to Italian ryegrass, especially the very dense hybrids. Spring growth is similar to early perennial ryegrasses whereas the heading is more like intermediate perennials. This gives a great deal of flexibility in the spring and high quality forage.