Learning about the growing habits and reproductive strategy of Thinopyrum intermedium through the establishment of its critical nitrogen dilution curve

•Parameters of the critical N dilution curve of Kernza® were estimated using a Bayesian approach.•Low a-coefficient of the critical N dilution curve was obtained, associated to low N requirements.•Th. intermedium can reach high aboveground dry matter under low nitrogen availability.•Aboveground N uptake of Th. intermedium is decreasing during the second part of the growing season.•Low nitrogen needs are linked to the long-term survival strategy of the crop.