Phat ; See ~ . ° J’ Sui . « Ae ae i = (eo ; : NS Gt RHE Ri weGibson-laviesss me — gue ae 7 *3 ayy (8 Ha . JAY ; Mins iy Pir 5 rari fi / Raa, ad i) ;: ! ; i hy Lea me re, iy 4 Al i . Zs, — — = Le fan -Q =o i) NM ea TN NM — oe i . THE GRASSES OF BRITAIN y HAR BY RICHARD PARNELL, M.D., F.R.S.E., EXTRAORDINARY MEMBER OF THE ROYAL MEDICAL SOCIETY OF EDINBURGH, FELLOW OF THE BOTANICAL SOCIETY OF EDINBURGH, AUTHOR OF THE ICHTHYOLOGY OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH, &e. ILLUSTRATED BY FIGURES DRAWN AND ENGRAVED BY THE AUTHOR. As grass arises, by degrees unseen, To deck the breast of earth with lovely green, Till Nature’s order brings the with’ring days, And all the summer’s beauteous pomp decays. Parnell’s Poems. WILLIAM BLACKWOOD AND SONS, EDINBURGH: AND 22, PALL MALL, LONDON. MDCCCXLY. PREFACE. Wuew, in the autumn of 1842, I published my volume on the Grasses of Scotland, I stated at one part of the preface, “ My original purpose was to embrace in this work all the Grasses of the United King- dom, but the want of recent specimens of the Grasses peculiar to Eng- land and to Ireland made it necessary that, for the present, I should limit my plan. I propose, however, as soon as I have gained the pro- per opportunities, to publish a similar account of those additional species.” Having taken pains since that time to procure those oppor- tunities, I hasten to redeem my promise, by placing before the public the completion of my original plan. The volume or part now published contains, on the plan followed in “the Grasses of Scotland,” a description of all the additional species peculiar to England as well as to Ireland. Of a few of the species common to Scotland and to one or both of the other great divisions of the United Kingdom, the descriptions have been repeated ; and this has been done expressly as often as it appear- ed that any thing had been omitted, or that any characters could be added or amended, so as to render the distinction of closely allied spe- cies more easy. For example, all the species and varieties of the genus Bromus are described in this volume, or there is a repetition of the descriptions of all the species met with in Scotland, and therefore given formerly in the “ Grasses of Scotland ;” for the species of this genus are more numerous in England than in Scotland, and every botanist will perceive at once a ready source of the improvement of former descriptions in the comparison of a greater number of species. vl PREFACE. The plates are not placed, as in “ the Grasses of Scotland,” at the end of the work, but, for greater ease of reference, opposite to the de- scriptions to which they relate. No pains have been spared to make the arrangement of the Tribes and Genera as practically useful as possible, which has led to some variations on the groups employed in “ the Grasses of Scotland.” With the same purpose of rendering the work as practically use- ful as possible, I have introduced a few tables, which I hope may prove of service in facilitating the progress of the student in this dif- ficult department of botany. The first table exhibits the Grasses of the United Kingdom arranged according to their time of flowering from the first week of April to the third week of August. In a sepa- rate column of the same table is indicated the week of the summer and autumn months in which the seeds ripen, and in the remaining columns are shown the habitat as peculiar to one or more of the di- visions of the United Kingdom, or common to England, Ireland, or Scotland, also the page where each grass is described, and the num- ber of the plate where it is figured. The remaining tables are of less: interest to the botanist, “being drawn from authorities on agriculture, and designed to afford to the cultivator some hints of a general kind, under different circumstances, for the choice and management of grasses. In conclusion I have only to add, that, to obviate misunderstand- ing hereafter as to the species and varieties, I shall deposit with the Linnean Society of London a specimen of the original grass plants employed in the descriptions and figures throughout the entire work. EDINBURGH, March \st 1845. DISTRIBUTION OF THE BRITISH GRASSES, AND AVERAGE PERIODS AT WHICH THEY FLOWER AND RIPEN THEIR SEED. Se ee Ne eS ee Knappia agrostidea Anthoxanthum odoratum, Sesleria cerulea, Alopecurus pratensis, Poa bulbosa, ——— annua, (var.) serica, Hierochloe borealis, Aira precox, Bromus mollis, Alopecurus geniculatus, Melica nutans, Poa pratensis, (var.) planiculmis, —— —— (var.) umbrosa, (var.) arida, (var.) retroflexa, (var.) muralis, (var.) arenaria, alpina, . ; (var.) vivipara, laxa, (var.) flexuosa, Bromus mollis (var.) ovalis, (var.) pratensis, racemosus, ——— —— (var.) subsecalinns, Be secalinus (var.) vulgaris, Trisetum pratense, : (var.) longifolium, (var.) latifolium, pubescens, Bromus commutatus, arvensis, Found wm (var.) velutinus,} ... (var.) multiflorus,| ... Scotland. Time of ripen- Time of | ing the seed. 4th week, May 2d week, June 3d week, June 3d week, June 4th week |4th week, May| 2 The whol/e summer Do. Do. MAY. lst week |2d week, June 3d week, June 2d week, June 3d week, July Ist week, July Ist week, July lst week, July Ist week, Aug. Ist week, July 2d week, July Ist week, July Ist week, July Ist week, July Ist week, July 4th week, June Ist week, July Ist week, July < |lst week, July 2d week, July 2d week, July 2d week, July 2d week, July Ist week, July 2d week, July 2d week, July 110 XLVIII. 14/V. 43/)X VIII. 73 XXX I. (E'|)-0.0.468 8 74|X XXII. 74(X XXIII. 74|X XXIII. 75|XXXTV. 75|X XXIV. 81)XXXVII. 212/IXCIV. 83|X XXVIII é4|X XXVIII 258/CX VII. 260/CX VIII. 101)XLVIII. 264/CXX. 268\CX XII. 270}/CX XIII. 122)/LI1. 123)LII. 123)LIII. 124/LITT. 114;XLIX. 274|CXXV. 276|\CX XVI. vill DISTRIBUTION OF GRASSES OF BRITAIN. Bromus patulus, Festuca bromoides, (var.) nana, (var.) pseudo-myurus, —— uniglumis, : ovina, (var.) hirsuta, (var.) vivipara, (var.) angustifolia, (var.) ceesia, C duriuscula, (var.) hirsuta, (var.) filiformis, ‘yar.) arenaria, (var.) humilis, (var.) rubra, Hordeum maritimum, sylvaticum, Alopecurus fulvus, Anemagrostis Spica Venti, Melica uniflora, Dactylis glomerata, Lolium perenne, ; (var.) racemosum, (var.) angustifolium, (var.) tenue, (var.) italicum, Lagurus ovatus, Poa trivialis, 2 5 : (var.) parviflora, — nemoralis, —sF6 (var.) angustifolia, cesia, : E : fluitans, Phleum pratense, Calamagrostis stricta, Milium effusum, Airochloa cristata, Aira caryophyllea, Arrhenatherum avenaceum, (var.) bulbosum, Cynosurus echinatus, Bromus sterilis, diandrus, erectus, = A Phalaris arundinacea (var.) varie- gata, . : : Calamagrostis lanceolata, Lapponica Briza media, Hordeum murinum, pratense, : Bromus maximus, Poa polynoda, Nardus stricta, Alopecurus agrestis, alpinus, 2 Found u seelene JUNE. Time of ripen-| , Time of | ing the seed. flowering. 2d week 2d week 2d week 2d week 2d week 2d week -.|2d week -|2d week -|...|2d week ...|2d week ...|2d week --.|2d week -.|....2d week ../2d week --.(2d week .|.../2d week ../2d week 2d week .--/2d week .../2d week .|.../2d week .-.|.-./2d week ...(2d week ...|2d week ....2d week .../2d week ..|2d week 3d week 3d week 3d week 3d week 3d week ...3d week 3d week 3d week ../3d week 3d week 3d week .|.../ad week ..|...Jad week 3d week 3d week ..|3d week ..Jad week 3d week 4th week 4th week 4th week ..|4th week 4th week 4th week 4th week ..-|4th week sesleee Af Of BGA lst week ...{ st week ..| st week 2a week, July 2d week, July 2d week, July 2d week, July 2d week, July 2d week, July 2d week, July 2d week, July 2d week, July 2d week, July 2d week, July 2d week, July 2d week, July 2d week, July 2d week, July 2d week, July 2d week, July 2d week, Aug. 4th week, July Ist week, Aug. 4th week, July od week, Aug. 2d week, July 2d week, July 2d week, July 2d week, July 2d week, July 3d week, July 2d week, July 2d week, July 4th week, July 4th week, July 4th week, July 4th week, July 4th week, July 4th week, July 2d week, Aug. 4th week, Aug. 4th week, July 3d week, July 3d week, July Ist week, Aug. 4th week, July 4th week, July 3d week, July 3d week, July 4th week, Aug. 4th week, Aug. 3d week, Aug. Ist week, Aug. Ist week, Aug. 3d week, July 3d week, July Ist week, Aug. Ist week, Oct. 3d week, Oct. | 130)/LVIII. 131/LVIII. 131)LIX,. 131/LIX, 131/LX. 142 142/LXV. 200|LXXXVIII 76/XXXV. 77|\XXXV. 78/XXXVI. 79 XXXVI. 88/XL. 102|)X LV. 17|VI. 37|XVI. 40)X VII. 44)XTX, 56)X XIV. 58/X XV. 59|X XVI. 66/X XVIII. 116\L. 117|L. 119}LI. 188)|LX XXII. 192);|LX XXIV. 194|LXXXV. 71XXX. 28/X. 11/XI. 254|/0XV. 85|XX XIX. 8iII. 10jIII. 13jIV. PERIODS OF FLOWERING AND RIPENING THE SEED. 1x aS a ee Le j .S _: ; " © S)e3 JULY. |p. . : ms & : Time of ripen-| = Time of | ing the seed. | £ Ss flowering. Polypogon monspeliensis Agrostis vulgaris E a (var.) pumila, (var.) aristata, Poa subcompressa, polynoda, (var.) denticulata, —. Parnellii, F —— distans, maritima, —_— Balfouri, (var.) rigida, (var.) extensa, olcus lanatus, _—__— —+ (var.) variegatum, Aira flexuosa, 2 Cynosurns cristatus, Bromus squarrosus, Triticum sylvaticum, —— pinnatum, : (var.) gracile, (var.) czspitosum, (var.) compositum, (var.) hispidum, (var-) pyar caninum, = repens, (var.) aristatum, —— junceum, - Lolium perenne, (var.) ramosum, (var.) multiflorum, (var.) submuticum, — temulentum, (var.) longiaris- tatum, . a Elymus geniculatus, arenarius, Phleum arenarium, Michelii, asperum, Behmeri, Trisetum flavescens, Ammophila arundinacea, Phalaris arundinacea, Polypogon littoralis, Agrostis setacea, 2 Catabrosa aquatica, (var.) littoralis, Briza minor, - Poa compressa, montana, procumbens, . rigida, .| lst week |4th week, Aug. .-.| lst week |2d week, Aug. .| lst week |Ist week, Aug. ...| lst week |1st week, Aug. ...| lst week |lst week, Aug. -| lst week |lst week, Aug. lst week -| lst week |2d week, Aug. Ist week lst week lst week lst week lst week Ist week lst week -| Ist week lst week Ist week lst week 2d week 2d week 2d week ...| 2d week .| 2d week 2d week 2d week 2d week 2d week 2d week | 2d week 2d week 2d week 2d week .| 2d week 2d week 2d week ...| 2d week .| 2d week 19/VI. lst week |3d week, Aug.| 26\IX. lst week |2d week, Aug.| 32/XI. lst week |2d week, Aug.| 33)/XII. Ist week |2d week, Aug.| 34/XTII. lst week |2d week, Aug.| 34/XIITI. 204/XC. 208)XCIL. lst week |lst week, Aug.| 210/XCIII. Ist week |Ist week, Aug.| 92)/X LI. Ist week |Ist week, Aug.) 93/XLII. ]45|LXVI. 146/LXVI. 146)\LXVI. lst week |3d week, July} 48/X XT. lst week |Ist week, Aug. 105|X LVI. |lst week, Aug.) 107/XLVI. Ist week |ist week, Aug.) 108|/X LVII. 238/CVII. Ist week |2d week, Aug.| 55)/X XIV. Ist week |2d week, Aug.| 60)/X XVI. 3d week, Aug.| 61)/X XVII. Ist week |2d week, Aug.) _64|X XVIII. Ist week |2d week, Aug. 280|CX XVII. 132\|LX1. Ist week, Aug.) 290/;CX XXII. Ist week, Aug.| 292;\CX XXIII lst week, Aug.| 292/CX XXIV. Ist week, Aug.| 294/CX XXV. lst week, Aug.| 294/CXXXVI_ lst week, Aug.| 296\cXXXVII. Ist week, Aug.| 135|LXII 2d week, Aug.| 136|/LXII 2d week, Aug.| 137|LXIII 2d week, Aug.| 138)/LXIII Ist week, Aug.) 302)CXLI. lst week, Aug.) 302)CXL. <|lst week, Aug.| 300|CXXXIX lst week, Aug.) 140|/LXIV. Ist week, Aug.) 304/CX LIT lst week, Aug.| 288/CXXXI 4th week, Aug.| 139|/LXTV. 3d week, Aug.} 20)VITI. 2d week, Aug.| 22/VII. 2d week, Aug.| 180)/LX XIX. 2d week, Aug.| 182)|LXXX 2d week, Aug.) 126)LIV. 2d week, Aug.| 25|VIII 2d week, Aug.| 27 |EX. 3d week, Aug.| 186)/LXXXI. 2d week, Aug.| 190/|LX XXIII od week, Aug.| 35|/XIIT 2d week, Aug.| 47/XX 3d week, Aug.) 228/CII od week, Aug.| 226/CI. 3d week, Aug.) 80)/XX XVII. 2d week, Aug. 86|XX XIX. 2d week. Aug. po bacco 2d week, Aug.| 97) — 2d week -| lst week |4th week, July DISTRIBUTION OF GRASSES OF BRITAIN, &c. x 5 -3|3{<| suLy Ss EE\E * |Time of ripen-| g, Plat $ to|-5 |S | Time of | ing the seed. | = eae © 5 | 5 | |flowering. Poa loliacea, Pata te non BG coe 2d week |2d week, Aug.) 98/XLIII. sylvatica, .|.../2d week |2d week, Aug.| 99)XLIV. SUfUALI Case om 7 reater eer a eee noel aoe 2d week |2d week, Aug.| 101/XLIV. —— fluitans, (var.) subspicata, 2d week |3d week, Aug.| 214/XCV. distans, (var.) obtusa, 2d week |2d week, Aug.| 216/XCVI. oe (var.) minor, 2d week |2d week, Aug.) 218|/XCVII. Borreri, 2d week |2d week, Aug.| 220|/XCVIII. ——— maritima, (var.) hispida, 2d week |2d week, Aug.| 222/XCIX. sylvatica, (var.) subaristata, 2d week |2d week, Aug.| 224/C. Alopecurus bulbosus, 2d week |3d week, Aug.) 174;/LXXVI. Bucetum loliaceum, . | «-- |+e-}--- 2d week |2d week, Aug.| 104)XLV. ELolcnsimolliss: «jes hte, P| cea lsel rom 2d week |2d week, Aug.| 50)/X XT. (var.) biaristatus, 2d week |2d week, Aug.) 51|X XII. Triticum cristatum, 2d week |2d week, Aug,| 134|/LXI. Aira flexuosa, (var.) montana, 2d week |3d week, Aug.| 240/CVIII. alpina, (var.) vivipara, 2d week |3d week, Aug.| 242/CIX. canescens, : 2d week |2d week, Aug.| 244/CX. Rottbollia incurvata, 3d week |2d week, Aug. OIIT, (var.) filiformis, 3d week |2d week, Aug.) 9/IIT. Agrostis alba (var.) stolonifera, | ... |--.)--- 3d week |3d week, Aug.) 35/XIV. (var.) palustris, . | --. |---|--- 3d week /3d week, Aug.| 35|XIV. canina, ..|.-.,od week (2d week, Sept.| 36/XV. (var.) alpina, ...8d week [Ist week, Sept.| 37/XV. Aira cespitosa, = * | wee Jove ne 3d week |2d week, Sept.| 52/X XIII. (var.) longiaristata 3d week |3d week, Aug.| 234/CV. Triodia decumbens, . ~~ | «-- [ee-[es- 3d week |lst week, Aug.| 70|/XXX. Molinia'cerulea, ~~ . sf wwe few efene 3d week |4th week, Aug.| 46/XX. Bromusasper, © =|. eee |r ee]nee 3d week |4th week, Aug.| 120)LI. Bucetum giganteum, Ad SUI ESSSE bss ade 3d week |4th week, Aug.| 108/XLVII. loliaceum (var.) longi- glume, 2 .../4th week |8d week, Aug.| 250/CXIII. (var.) elongatum, ../4th week |8d week, Aug.| 252/CXIV. . Setaria viridis, : 4th week |3d week, Aug.| 156/LX VIII. yerticillata, 4th week |3d week, Aug.| 158)/LXIX. Digitaria humifusa, 4th week |4th week, Aug.| 164/LX XT. Cynodon dactylon, 4th week |3d week, Aug.) 166)/LX XII. Calamagrostis Epigejos, =. — | «-- |e]... 4th week |4th week, Aug.) 38)/XVI. Phleum pratense (v.) longiciliatum ..|4th week |3d week, Aug.| 178)|LX XVIII Molinia cerulea (var.) brevira- mosa, 4 ..14th week |4th week, Aug.} 230/CIII. AUG. Molinia depauperata, ...|Ist week |2d week, Sept.| 45)/X1X. Aira alpina, ...|Ist week |2d week, Sept.| 53/X XIII. Arundo phragmites, ..{lst week |3d week, Sept.| 69/X XIX. Stipa pennata, Ist week |2d week, Sept. 198)/LXXXVII Aira cespitosa (var.) brevifolia, ...[Ilst week |2d week, Sept.| 236)/CVI. Phleum pratense(v) longiaristatum ..{lst week |3d week, Sept.| 176/LX XVI. Echinochloa crus-galli, 2d week |3d week, Sept.) 154)LX VII. Digitaria sanguinalis, 2d week |3d week, Sept.) 160)/LXX. Spartina stricta, 2d week |2d week, Sept.| 170)/|LX XIV. alterniflora, 2d week /2d week, Sept.| 172;/LXXV. Gastridium lendigerum, 3d week \4th week,Sept.| 196|LXXXVI. . GRASSES OF BRITAIN. X1 Average weight per bushel of such grass seeds as are in general use for cultivation, and their average prices per lb., as sold by Messrs Law- son, Edinburgh. Nee ot - A S23 | & ag | Se 23 Sag BoTaNicaL NAMES. sas | 535 BoTanicat NAMEs. Sa2 | 585 ps Bao ems | SeS < < =P < ~hg < =P Ibs. Ib. Ibs. Ib. 12 ls. 6d. 133 | Is. 6d. 12 Is. Od. 143 ls. 6d. 13 Os. 9d. 7 Os. 3d. 14 Is. Od. 6 Os. 6d. 54 | Is. 6d. 15 Os. 6d. 15 2s. Od. 30 Os. 3d. 6 2s. Od. 25 4s. Od. 7 Os. 6d. 48 2s. Od. 5 2s. 6d. 44 Qs. 8d. 104 | 2s. Od. 15 ls. 3d. 15 | 1s. 0d. 133 | 1s. 0d. 26 1s. 2d. 152 | Is. Od. 113 | Os. 6d. 10—}10s. 6d. 93 Is. Od. 62 3s. 6d. 14 1s. Od. 64 3s. Od. 15 Is. 6d. 632 | Os. 43d. 134 | 1s. 2d. 60 Is. Od. Bucetum pratense. 13 Os. 8d. 64 Os. 10d. Festuca duriuscula (var. 10 Is. 4d. 65 Is. Od. Kinds and proportions of Grass Seeds as recommended for sowing the imperial acre for alternate Husbandry.* Light and medium aE: Heavy Soils Soils. ‘) = 2ogsj=@os| = Z2Oogsfc6 ms HER eH SBE alH ES 3 sOsgs|jes ga = a) Ss ° B)9~S s a s ae $ a >, Pry 2 Gon a cre Pry mo Pa 2 BoranicaL NaMEs. eoFrPloseSloeal] oF los elog & Sf ings W/es. | es jas Ro. =) ° ee Fa aes o a >) z 5 |Sesises| 5 |Seslsa8 a Sone o a & Ss aaa lbs. Ibs. Ibs lbs. Ibs. Ibs. Pauly PELENNe. 2 222 v6 sacs... esect terse nanh 10 10 10 10 10 10 —— (var.) italicum............. 6 6 6 6 6 6 Phicwm ypratense:27.04.0 . 32.3. A2R8 Tae l 1 1 2 2 Medicago lupulina..................0..0.60- 4 iors | 2 2 ] 2 2 rato liam. pratense::. 2.2202. 2s0.s8 ee oA 8 ~ 3 8 4 3 FOPOHN GS. -- sSoctess ee eae oe ee 2 4 4 2 4 4 * Mr Lawson observes, that “ for three years’ pasture on good soil, the substitution of two pounds of Dactylis glomerata for about three pounds of Lolium perenne in the above mixture will be found advantageous ; while in sheep pastures, the addition of one pound per acre of parsley seed would also be attended with good results.” Zotus, Medicago and Trifolium are not true grasses: they belong to the order Leguminose. X11 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. For Permanent Pasture.* Light Soil. | Medium Soil.| Heavy Soil. ae suede rps cee aes : BoranicaL Names. Ss] 6m 6, | sess g, 5 & Sesrss (se |ss 182/58 ze ont = = 3S Bslls, |S lea | BS Za lbs. lbs. lbs. lbs. lbs. Ibs. 13 1s 13 a Alopecurus pratensis,................ Senees dhnrpetumdavEsCenS=c. cscs eces Seenccarsascnee Mactylisislomeratar. v..sasscansrseacaeeencses Bestncavdurrusculla,.-c.cs:ccce.scnctecen eee NnNnwnw ore Ico Nonrko- [CoB Now oe 20} a) we Bucetnm selatinsy. s.o2.--codesceetesedees esc PTALENSCie see oeeseseten ceceteec ee Molipmiperenne;s.1c-s ae rat, jury parae mai? Wr eahia Liesl as hava AiR ged ‘oa thi eee eo PAR yal " set rer, 4 om? “Ont ® / GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. a —" GQNITOOR TO Bho Ae : ed a |) a Se seen < FRINTED BY JOHN STARK, OLD ASSEMBLY CLOSE, EDINBURCH, THE GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. BY RICHARD PARNELL, M.D., F.R.S.E., EXTRAORDINARY MEMBER OF THE ROYAL MEDICAL SOCIETY OF EDINBURGH, FELLOW OF THE BOTANICAL SOCIETY OF EDINBURGH, AUTHOR OF THE ICHTHYOLOGY OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH, &e. ILLUSTRATED BY FIGURES DRAWN AND ENGRAVED BY THE AUTHOR. the bare earth Brought forth the tender grass, whuse verdure clad Her universal face with pleasant green. MILTON, WILLIAM BLACKWOOD AND SONS, EDINBURGH; AND 22, PALL MALL, LONDON. MDCCCXLII. a ita waa a BT A Ye MAS, Ct a 7} Raa ee as Tee Po Se aye ‘ih URE, CeO m bec’ aire beet ee Ae nse of TS AUPE ng RNS 1 ee a oy pit eRe er RP ad |p CO TED TRU Al Pe CVstet Stand - =) ihe Ba EV SATE Stes HGR PANT, GA ATE ALAG PREFACE. Tue work here offered to the public on the Grasses of Scotland is designed to afford to the student of this difficult department of Bo- tany, assistance of a more available kind than the treatises in ge- neral use attempt to supply. In most other respects it proceeds on the established plan of works of the same description. Much attention has been bestowed on the definitions both of gene- ra and species. In some instances new genera have been framed, and a few new species have been added, while the specific characters are determined throughout with the greatest possible care. The authorities for the species adopted, both British and foreign, have been invariably cited. But no character has been taken on trust, or has been admitted without careful examination to ascertain its presence in every instance. And in the cases, (which are not few,) where new characters have been substituted, their constancy has been ‘tested by the examination of at least one hundred specimens of each species, obtained from various localities. In the description of each grass, the state of every individual part has been carefully set down, so that, on the comparison of any two descriptions, the several differences between the species inspected will be at once apparent. And in addition to this assistance, an endeavour has been made to point out the most prominent diagnostic marks be- tween those species which are most liable to be confounded. Of each species a figure has been given. In: every instance these figures have been drawn anil engraved by the author; and though vil PREFACE. such attempts lose the advantage of being done in an artist-like man- ner, it perhaps outweighs this drawback in a work for practical use, that the several steps of the labour are performed by one familiar with the minute parts of the objects copied. Nearly the whole of the figures are of natural size, and have been obtained from recent spe- cimens, while in no instance has any use been made of plates already published. Of the parts of the flower, magnified views are likewise given. With regard to the varieties occurring under certain species, pains have been taken to name and describe shortly all those that seem to deserve such notice; and of each of these a figure has been given. Under the head of habitat the several countries in which each spe- cies is known to be produced are expressly stated. The range of the altitude of the places of growth is specified as accurately as possible. The time when the seed is matured (which it is often useful to know), as well as the time of flowering, is everywhere indicated. And no- tices are introduced of the agricultural and other properties of such species as are of any value. My original purpose was to embrace in this work all the Grasses of the United Kingdom, but the want of recent specimens of the Grasses peculiar to England and to Ireland, made it necessary that, for the present, I should limit my plan. I propose, however, as soon as I have gained the proper opportunities, to publish a similar account of those additional species. I have given a list of all the Grasses found within fifteen miles of Edinburgh ; and in this list will be found a few beyond those in Greville’s Flora Edinensis or Woodforde’s Catalogue. I have attempted an arrangement of the species of the Grasses of Scotland on the dichotomous plan, the mere inspection of which will, I think, sufficiently explain the use that may be made of it. The number of species and varieties described and delineated in this work is altogether one hundred and thirty-three,—and, with the ex- ceptions referred to in the following table, the arrangement and sy- nonymes followed by Sir William Hooker in his British Flora haye been adopted. PREFACE. Vil Agrostis Spica Venti...changed to...Anemagrostis Spica Venti. Wi ciiepar eerie aes cane econ Molinia cerulea. Triticum loliaceum ..............cese0e Poa loliacea. Festaca calamaria...........-..---2-.0 Poa sylvatica. rename Dolineet o> oe eo. tac oceeacks nse Bucetum loliaceum. Ssiai TRALEREIAG << <0, 5 c-5 Cat’s-tail Grass or Timothy Grass. Specific Characters—Glumes more than twice the length of their awns. (Plate VL) * Phleum pratense, Linn. Koch, Leers, Smith, Hooker, Lindley, Greville, Knapp. B 18 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. Description—It grows from eighteen inches to two feet high. The root is perennial, somewhat creeping, occasionally bulbous. Stem erect, round and smooth, bearing four or five leaves with nearly smooth sheaths ; the upper sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with an oblong, membranous ligule. Joints smooth. Leaves flat, broad- ish, acute, roughish on both surfaces as well as on the margins. IJn- Slorescence simple panicled. Panicle erect, close, of a cylindrical form, Srom two to five inches long, variegated with green and white. Spike- lets small and numerous, compressed, (Fig. 3), arranged in pairs on very short footstalks around the rachis; of one slightly awned floret, muen shorter than the calyx. Calyx of two glumes of equal lengths, (Fig. 1), with a broad, obtuse, membranous margin ; the keels fringed with short stout white hairs; each glume terminating in a_ stout, rough awn not half the length of the glume. Floret of two membra- uous pale (Hig 2), the outer palea ovate, five-ribbed ; jagged at the summit, hairy on the keel, terminating in a minute awn. Inner palea shorter than the outer palea, membranous, with the margins delicate- ly fringed. Obs.—Phleum pratense is distinguished from Phleum alpinum in the panicle being much longer and the glumes more than twice the length of their awns;—whereas in P. alpinum the panicle never exceeds an inch in Jength, and the glumes are not more than one-third longer than theirawns. It is stated by several authors thatthe glumes of P. alpinum are equal in length to their awns, but in all those that I have examin- ed the glumes are one-third longer than their awns. As this is one of the most important characters by which these two grasses are distin- guished, it renders the greatest accuracy the more essential. From Phleum arenarium in the glumes being obtuse and awned, and the floret more than half the length of the calyx ;—whereas in P. arenartum the glumes are acute, not awned, and the floret is not more than one-third the length of the calyx. (Plate VIL.) From Phleum Michelii in the spikelets bemg much smaller; the glumes obtuse and awned, and the floret tipped with a minute awn ;— whereas in P. Michelit the spthelets are large ; the glumes acute but not awned ; and the floret entire at the summit. (Plate VII.) It is stated that this grass was first recommended for agricultural use about eighty years ago under the name of Timothy-grass,—an ap- GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 19 peliation which it received from Timothy Hanson, who cultivated it on a considerable scale in North America for agricultural purposes. It is a hard coarse grass, not much liked either by horses, cows, goats, or sheep, and swine refuse it. It has been highly recommended for the purpose of hay, as the stems during the time the seeds are ripe contain more nutritive matter than the stems of most other grasses ; but the deficiency in the produce of the after-math and the slowness of its growth after being cut, are defects which are not compensated by the superior quantity of nutritive matter contained in the stems of the seed crop. It is therefore the opinion of Mr Sinclair, that it is unfit for cultivation by itself as an alternate husbandry grass, but of great value as a constituent of any mixture of grasses for permanent pasture, or the alternate husbandry, where it should always form a part of the crop. It grows best in moist tenacious soils, and is com- mon throughout the whole of Britain. It also occurs in Lapland, Norway, and Sweden, and as far south as the Mediterranean. It has been found in the most northern parts of North America, but is sup- posed to have been introduced into the United States. Its limit of altitude about 1500 feet above the sea. Flowers in the third week in June, and ripens its seed in the end of July. 9. PHLEU M ALPINUM.* Alpine Cat’s-tail Grass. Specific Character——Glumes one-third longer than their awns. (Plate VI.) | “a Description.—It grows from six to twelve inches high. The root is perennial, knotty, and somewhat creeping. Stem erect, round, and smooth, bearing four or five leaves with smooth, striated sheaths ; the upper leaf inflated, longer than its leaf, crowned with a short, obtuse ligule. Joints smooth. Leaves flat, acute, smooth on both surfaces, roughish on the margins. Inflorescence simple panicled. Panicle erect, close, bristly, not exceeding an inch in length, of an oval form, tinged with brownish purple. Spckelets small and nume- * Phleum alpinum, Linn. Koch, Smith, Hooker. 20 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. rous, compressed, (Fig. 3), arranged on the rachis on very short foot- stalks; of one minutely awned floret, shorter than the calyx. Calyx of two glumes of equal lengths, (Fig. 1), with a broad, obtuse mem- branous margin; the keels fringed with short, stout, white hairs ; each glume terminating in a stout, rough awn, more than half the length of the glume, (but not as long as the glume.) Foret of two membranous palew, (Fig. 2), the outer palea ovate, five-ribbed, jag- ged at the summit, hairy on the keel, terminating in a minute, rough, dorsal awn. Inner palea rather shorter than the outer palea, mem- branous, with the margins delicately fringed. Obs.—Phleum alpinum is at all times easily distinguished by its short, oval, bristly panicle. The only species that it is likely to be confounded with is Alopecurus alpinus, whose panicle is soft and silky. The glumes of the calyx acute but not awned, and the floret of only one palea. (See Plate IV.) This grass is found on several of the Highland mountains in Scotland, growing in rather moist situations about 3500 feet above the sea; on Craigneulict, a hill above Killm, Garway moor, Ben Lawers, Clova mountains. It does not exist either in England or Treland. It is common in Lapland, Norway, and Sweden, and also in Germany and Switzerland. It is found in the most northern parts of North America, but is unknown in the United States. Itis of no material agricultural use, as sheep seldom eat it. Its lower limit of altitude about 2500 feet above the sea. Flowers in July, and ripens its seed about the end of August. 10. PHLEUM ARENARIUM.* Sea Cat’s- Tail Grass. Specific Characters.—Glumes lanceolate. Floret one-third the length of the calyx. (Plate VII.) Description.—It grows from three to fifteen inches high. The * Phleum arenarium, Linn. Smith, Hooker, Lindley; Greville, Koch. Phalaris arenaria, Knapp. = a GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 91 root is annual, composed of many long simple slender fibres. Stem erect, smooth, not striated, round and polished, the upper part gene- rally of a purplish tinge ; bearing four or five leaves with smooth striated, somewhat swollen sheaths; the upper sheath more than twice the length of its leaf, crowned with an obtuse ligule embracing the stem. Joints naked. Leaves short, rather broad for their length, acute, roughish to the touch on both surfaces. Inflorescence simple panicled. Panicle erect, crowded, dense, of an oval form, narrow at the base, with very short branches, about one-third the length of the glumes, the rachis rough and hairy. Sprkelets numerous, of an oval form, (Fig. 3), imbricated round the rachis; of one awnless floret about one-third the length of the calyx. Calyx of two equal mem- branous lanceolated glumes, (Fig. 1), fringed on the upper half of the keel as well as on the inner margins. Floret of two palee, (Fig. 2), the outer palea membranous, five-ribbed ; notched on the summit ; hairy on the keel. Inner palea membranous, obtuse, notched at the summit, about equal in length to the outer palea, and entire at the margins. Obs.—This grass, independent of the form of the panicle and other characters, is at all times recognized by the small size of the floret, which is not more than one-third the length of the acute calyx. It is distinguished from Phleum pratense in being a smaller plant ; the panicle somewhat contracted at the base ; glumes lanceolate, not awned, and of a different form, with the inner margins hairy ; floret not awned, very small, about one-third the length of the calyx; —whereas in P. pratense the panicle is cylindrical ; glumes awned ; inner margins not hairy ; floret tipped with a small awn, and more than half the length of the calyx. From Phileum Micheli in the panicle being more compact ; spike- lets much smaller ; glumes not hairy on the lower half of the keels ; floret one-third the length of the palea, and notched at the summit; —whereas in P. Michelii the panicle is soft to the touch ; spikelets rather large ; glumes hairy the whole length of the keels ; floret one-third shorter than the calyx, and entire at the summit. This grass has been applied to no agricultural use. It grows on ‘ Qe GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. loose blowing sand near the sea shore. In Scotland it is not un common, especially along the Fifeshire coast. In England, it is: found on the shores of Northumberland, Durham, Cheshire, Den-: bigh, Norfolk, Suffolk, Kent, Sussex, Somerset, and Devon. Found occasionally in Ireland, but not met with in Lapland, Norway, or Sweden, but confined more to the south of Europe. It is unknown in America. Flowers in the second week of July, and ripens its seed in the third week of August. 11. Paiteum Micuenu.* Michelian Cats-tail Grass. Specific Characters.—Glumes lanceolate. Floret entire at the summit, more than half the length of the calyx. (Plate VIL.) Description.—It grows from one to two feet high. The root is: perennial, fibrous, somewhat creeping. Stem erect, round, smooth and polished ; bearing three or four leaves with smooth, striated sheaths ;. the upper sheath much longer than its leaf, somewhat inflated, crown- ed with an obtuse membranous ligule. Joints smooth. Leaves flat, acute, broadish for their length; radical leaves numerous, roughish on both surfaces, as well as on the edges. Inflorescence panicled. Panicle from one to three inches long, cylindrical, soft, compact, erect. Spikelets numerous, compressed, (Fig 3), arranged on all sides of the rachis ; of one awnless floret shorter than the calyx. Calyx of two membranous, lanceolate glumes (Fig. 1), of equal lengths, furnished with a number of delicate white hairs, especially on the keels and. two lateral ribs. Floret of two palee, (Fig. 2); the outer palea of an: ovate form, five-ribbed, roughish on the keel, entire at the summit. Inner palea rather shorter than the outer palea, membranous, bifid. at the summit, and delicately fringed at the margins. Phleum Micheli is distinguished from Phleum pratense in the glumes of the calyx being acute-lanceolate. Outer palea entire at the summit ;—whereas in P. pratense the glumes are obtuse, each fur- nished at the summit with an acute, stout awn, nearly half the length * Phizum Michelti, Koch, Smith, Hooker, Lindley. Phalaris alpina, Henke. 3 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 93 of the glume. Outer palea toothed at the summit, and tipped with a minute point or awn. From Phleum arenarium in the keels of the glumes being hairy the whole length ; floret one-third shorter than the calyx, and entire at the summit ;—whereas in P. arenarium, the keels of the glumes are without hairs on the lower half; floret one-third the length of the calyx, and notched at the summit. This very rare grass was discovered several years ago by the late Mr Don on the rocky parts of the high mountains of Clova in An- gus-shire, but has not since been found in Britain by any other bo- tanist. It is a native of the south of Europe. It has not been dis- covered in America, or farther north than latitude 57°. Flowers in July and August. 12. ANTHOXANTHUM ODORATUM.* Sweet-scented Vernal grass. Specific Character.—Base of leaves hairy. (Plate VIL) Description.—It grows from twelve to eighteen inches high. The root is perennial, fibrous. Stem slender, round, striated, polished, smooth, occasionally roughish; bearing two or three leaves with roughish (when felt from below upwards) striated, frequently hairy sheaths; the upper sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with a long membranous ligule, furnished with hairs at the base. Joinis long, situated wide apart. Leaves flat, acute, light green, ribbed, more or less hairy on both surfaces, and rough at the margins. Inflorescence simple panicled, close, appearing as if spiked. Panicle erect, about an inch and a-half in length, of an ovate-oblong form, with short, hairy, wavy, branches, arranged alternately on the smooth straight rachis. Spikelets rather large, erect, of an ovate-lanceolate form, about four or five together, turuing yellowish with age; of one awn- ed floret. Calyx of two very unequal ‘acute glumes, (Fig 1), more or less hairy, especially on the keels; the large glume three-ribbed ; the outer or smaller glume without lateral ribs. Floret of two palex (Fig. 2), of equal size, about half the length of the large glume, of an oblong form, of a brownish colour, more or less hairy, furnished * Anthoxanthum odoratum, Linn. Koch, Smith, Hooker, Greville, Lindley. 94 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. with two awns of unequal Jengths ; the smaller awn arises under the summit of the outer palea ; the opposite awn, which is bent in the mid- dle, and about three times longer, arises a little above the base of the inner palea, and extends half its length beyond the palea. Scales of two unequal thin membranes, clasping the base of the ovarium, (Fig. 4.) Stamens two, protruding beyond the spikelet. Anthers ob- long, notched at each extremity. (Fig. 5.) Ovarium oblong. Styles short, smooth. Stigmas long, downy, protruding very conspicuously beyond the summit. Seed one, naked, acute at each end. This grass, during the process of drying, gives out a delightful odour, similar to that of woodroof, and it is principally owing to the presence of this grass that the delightful and well-known smell of new mown hay is occasioned. Mr Sinclair, who is the best authority we have on the agricultural uses of grasses, states, that the chief proper- ty that gives merit to this grass is its early growth, though in this respect it is inferior to several other species which are later in flow- ering. It thrives best when combined with many different species, and is therefore a true permanent pasture grass. It does not appear to be particularly liked by cattle, though eaten in pasture in common with others. The proportional value which the grass of the latter- math bears to that of the seed crop is nearly as 13 to 9, and the pro- portional value of nourishment contamed in the autumn grass ex- ceeds that of the first grass of the spring, as 9 to 7. The superior nu- tritive qualities of its latter-math area great recommendation for the purpose of grazing; the stalks being of but little utility, as they are generally left untouched by the cattle, provided there is a sufficiency of herbage. Its merits in respect to early growth, continuing to ve- getate and throw up flowering stalks till the end of autumn, and its hardy and permanent nature, sufficiently uphold its claims to a place in the composition of all permanent pastures. This grass constitutes a part of the herbage of pastures on almost every kind of soil, though it only attains to perfection in those that are deep and moist. It is said that the flavour of mutton is greatly improved when sheep are fed on pastures where this grass abounds. This is a most common grass throughout the whole of Europe, as well as in the most northern parts of North America, but appears to GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 95 have been introduced into the United States ; its limit of altitude being about 3500 feet above the sea. Flowers about the middle of April, and the seeds are ripe in the second or third week of June. 13. AMMOPHILA ARUNDINACEA.* Sea Reed. Specific Character—Leaves involute, sharp-pointed. (Plate VIII.) Description—It grows from eighteen inches to two feet high. The root is perennial, extensively creeping. Stem erect, smooth, shining, round, and hard, bearing three or four leaves with slightly roughish sheaths ; the upper sheath about equal in length to its leaf, crowned with a long, lanceolate, membranous ligule. Joints smooth. Leaves narrow, smooth, involute, sharp-pointed, rigid, and glaucous. Inflorescence panicled. Panicle erect, dense, from three to five inches long, narrowly oval, its branches short and rough. Spikelets nume- rous, long, and narrow, of one floret, shorter than the calyx. Calyx of two, unequal, narrow, acute glumes (Fig. 1), without lateral ribs, roughish on the upper part of the keels. Foret of two palex, (Fig. 1), the outer palea five-ribbed, the dorsal rib minutely toothed, termi- nating in a short scabrous point projecting beyond the palea ; the base _ furnished with several long, straight hairs pointing upwards. Inner palea about equal in length to the outer palea, membranous, linear, the margins minutely fringed. This grass seems not to be eaten by any kind of cattle, owing pro- bably to the coarseness and rigidity of the foliage. It, however, is of great value along the coast, as it retains the drifted sand, thereby forming an embankment which prevents the encroachments of the sea; consequently, an act of Parliament has been passed for its pre- servation. It grows only on the very driest sandy shores. Mats and ropes are sometimes made of this grass. It is common in Orkney, and along most of the coast of Scotland. In England it is found on the coasts of Northumberland, Durham, * Ammophila arenaria, Lindley, Koch. Arundo arenaria, Smith, Hooker, Greville. Ammophila arundinacea, Hooker, Brit, Flora, <¢ 26 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. Cheshire, Denbigh, Anglesea, Merioneth, Worcester, Norfolk, Es- sex, Kent, Somerset, Devon, and Cornwall. It is also found in Lap- land, Norway, and Sweden, and as far south as the Mediterranean. It occurs in the most northern parts of America as well as in the United States. Flowers early in July. 14. PHALARIS CANARIENSIS.” Manured Canary Grass. Specific Characters.—Panicle globular. Base of floret with two acute lanceolate scales. (Plate EX.) Description.—It grows from one to two feet. The root is annual, composed of a number of white fibres. Stem erect, smooth, slender ; bearing five or six leaves, with somewhat roughish inflated sheaths ; upper sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with a white membranous rounded ligule. Joints naked, frequently of a yellowish tinge. Leaves rather broad, lanceolate, acute, occasionally roughish to the touch. Inflorescence panicled. Panicle dense, globular, erect, its branches very short, about one-seventh part the length of the spike- lets. Spikelets oval, flat, imbricated, rather large, elegantly varie- gated with green and white; of one awnless floret. Calyx of two equal compressed glumes, (Fig 1); inner margins nearly straight ; outer margin convex, furnished on each side with a broad green crescent-shaped line or rib, broadest towards the upper part. Foret of two pale, (Fig. 2), the outer palea ovate, acute, hairy, with two membranous lanceolate scales at the base, about half the length of the palea. Inner palea hairy, rather shorter than the outer palea. Seeds polished. — Obs.—-Although this grass, in its general appearance, is very un- like the following species, yet in the structure of their florets they are very similar. It is a native of the Canary Isles and southern parts of Europe, and is now become naturalized in Britain as well as in America. It is cultivated principally for its seed, which is considered superior to any other kind of food for canaries and other small birds. The herbage is of little value. * Phalaris canaricnsis, Linn. Smith, Hooker, Lindley, Koch, Greyille. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. yf Flowers in the first week in July, and ripens its seed in the end of August. 15. PHALARIS ARUNDINACEA.* Reed Canary Grass. Specific Characters.—Panicle long and narrow. Base of floret with two linear tufts of hairs. (Plate LX.) Description.—It grows from two to five feet high. The root is perennial, creeping, with long horizontal shoots. Stem erect, round, smooth ; bearing five or six leaves with smooth striated sheaths; up- per sheath much longer than its leaf, crowned with a long membra- nous decurrent ligule; the liguleson the lower sheaths more obtuse. Joints smooth, of a darkish purple, especially the lower ones. Leaves broad, of a light green, acute, harsh, flat, ribbed ; the central rib the most prominent; roughish on both surfaces, but more so behind; the edges minutely toothed. Inflorescence compound panicled. Panicle erect, long, and narrow, at first close, afterwards more spreading; the rachis and branches very rough. Spzkelets numerous, crowded, often of a purplish tinge, sometimes white or pale green, occasionally of rich shades of purple and yellow, with large dark anthers; of one awn- less floret, ‘concealed within the calyx. Calyx of two nearly equal acute glumes, (Fig. 1), three-ribbed; sides roughish, the keels mi- nutely toothed, Floret of two palez, (Fig. 2), the outer palea acute, roughish, hairy at the margins, furnished at the base with two linear tufts of hairs about one-third the length of the palea, (outer corolla of Schrader). Inner palea rather shorter than the outer palea, mem- branous, glossy, with the margins of the upper part delicately fringed. Obs.—A beautiful variety of this grass is sometimes cultivated in gardens under the name of Painted Lady-grass or Ribbon-grass, with the leaves elegantly striped with green and white, occasionally with a purplish tinge. This grass produces a large and early crop, and will bear cutting three times during the summer, but, from the coarseness of its foliage, cattle are said not to be fond of it. It is best suited for tenacious clayey * Phalaris arundinacea, Linn, Smith, Hooker, Koch, Greville. 298 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. soils. It grows naturally by the sides of rivers and standing pools. Its limit of altitude is about 1000 feet above the sea. It is frequent in Scotland, England, and Ireland, but has not been found in Lapland, Norway, or Sweden, and does not seem to exist further north than latitude 59. It is common in Germany and the southern parts of Europe, but quite unknown in America. Flowers in the second week of July, and ripens its seed about the middle of August. 16. HorpDEUM MURINUM.* Wall-Barley. Specific Characters.—Glumes of central spikelet dilated and frmg- ed. (Plate X.) Description.—It grows from twelve to eighteen inches high. The root is annual, fibrous. Stem round, smooth, erect ; bearing three or four leaves, with smooth striated inflated sheaths, the upper sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with a short ragged ligule. Joints smooth. Zeaves linear, acute, flat, roughish, slightly hairy on both surfaces, the edges minutely serrated. Inflorescence spiked. Spike usually about two inches in length, linear, very dense, and uni- form; rachis jointed, very brittle, toothed; the intermediate spaces flattened and bordered. Spikelets arranged in threes at each tooth of the rachis, (Fig. 4); of one-awned floret. Calyz of the central spike- let of two glumes of equal lengths, dilated, fringed, terminating in a long straight rough awn, (Fig. 1.) Central floret of two palee ; the outer palea ovate, three-ribbed, terminating in a long rough awn longer than the-glumes ; the inner palea membranous, pellucid, mi- nutely fringed at the margins, and furnished with a small bristle at the base. Lateral spikelets pedunculated ; the calyx of two glumes, (Figs. 2 and 3,) bristle-shaped, the innermost slightly dilated, and often somewhat fringed at the base. Lateral florets imperfect, with stamens only ; of two pale, the outer palea three-ribbed, terminating in a long awn longer than the glumes; inner palea membranous, with a delicate bristle at the base. Obs.—Hordeum murinum is distinguished from Hordeum mariti- * Hordeum murinum, Koch, Smith, Hooker, Greville, Lindley. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 29 mum in the glumes of the middle spikelet being dilated and fringed (Fig. 1), and the inner glume of the lateral spikelets but very slightly dilated (Fig. 2);—-whereas in H. maritimum the glumes of the mid- dle spikelet are bristle-shaped, and not fringed (Fig. 1), and the inner glume of the lateral spikelet is very conspicuously dilated on one side, in the form of half-ovate, (Fig. 2.) From Hordeum pratense, in the glumes of the middle spikelet being dilated and fringed, and the floret of the lateral spikelet with a long awn, (Fig. 4) ;—whereas in H. pratense the glumes of all the spike- lets are bristle-shaped and not fringed, and the floret of the lateral spikelets has a very short awn, (Fig. 4.) The nutritive properties of this grass are said to be very inferior, and, as it is seldom or never eaten by any description of cattle, be- comes of no agricultural use. It is very seldom found in pastures, but confined to road-sides, on dry light soil, and under walls and other barren places. Its limit of altitude seems to be about 500 feet above the sea. It is a very common grass throughout Britain, there being scarcely a county in which it is not found. In Lapland, Norway, and Swe- den, it is not known to exist. In Germany and south of Europe, it is common, but has not been discovered in America. Flowers about the end of June, or the first week in July, and ripens its seed in the early part of August. 17. HorpDEUM MARITIMUM. * Sea- Barley. Specific Characters—Inner glume of lateral spikelet dilated on one side only into half-ovate. (Plate X.) Description.—It grows from three to nine inches high. The root is annual, fibrous. Stem erect, prostrate at the base, round, smooth, and polished, bearing four or five leaves, with smooth striated sheaths ; upper leaf rather inflated, longer than its leaf, crowned with a short obtuse membranous ligule. Joints smooth. Leaves short, acute, narrow, roughish, and somewhat hairy on both surfaces. Jnjlores- * Hordeum maritimum, Koch, Smith, Hooker, Lindley. 30 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. cence spiked. Spike usually about an inch or rather more in length, dense and uniform ; rachis jointed, toothed alternately on each side, the intermediate spaces flattened and fringed at the borders. Spihe- lets arranged in threes on each side of the rachis, of one awned floret. Calyz of the central spikelet of two equal bristle-shaped rough glumes, (Fig. 1.) Floret of two palez ; the outer palea terminating in a long, rough, straight awn, longer than those of the calyx; inner palea li- near, acute, with a bristle at the base about half the length of the pa- lea. Lateral spikelets pedunculated; outer glume bristle-shaped, (Fig. 3); inner glume dilated into a half-ovate form, (Fig. 2), and terminating in a long rough awn. loret imperfect, barren, with a short rough awn, not half the length of those of the glumes. Obs.— Hordeum maritimum is distinguished from Hordeum pratense in the inner glume of the lateral spikelet being dilated on one side, in the form of half-ovate, (Fig. 2);—whereas in H. pratense all the glumes are bristle-shaped, neither dilated or fringed, (Fig. 2.) From Hordeum murinum in the glumes of the middle spikelet being bristle-shaped, and the inner glume of the lateral spikelets very con- spicuously dilated on one side in the form of half-ovate, (Fig. 2) ;— whereas in H. murinum the glumes of the middle spikelet are dilat- ed and fringed, (Fig. 1), and the inner glume of the lateral spikelets but very slightly dilated, (Fig. 2). Fortunately this grass is not common, for when it happens to be mixed with hay, the short rough awns irritate the gums of horses, causing inflammation and thereby disease. It is found in pastures and sandy ground near the sea. It is of rare occurrence in Scotland, found occasionally on the coast of Angus-shire. In England it occurs along the coasts of North- umberland, Durham, York, Glamorgan, Gloucester, Norfolk, Suf- folk, Essex, Kent, Sussex, Dorset, Somerset, and Devon. In Ire- land occasionally. It does not appear to exist further north than the Baltic, and is frequent along the Mediterranean. It is unknown in America. Flowers in June and July. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 31 18. HorDEUM PRATENSE. * Meadow Barley. Specific Characters.—All the glumes bristle-shaped. (Plate X1.) Description.—It grows from eighteen inches to two feet or more high. The root is perennial, fibrous, (“ becoming bulbous in bar- ren ground, occasionally overflowed,” Smith.) Stem round, smooth, erect, and glossy ; bearing four or five leaves with smooth striated sheaths ; the upper sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with a very short ligule. Joints smooth. Leaves linear, flat, acute, roughish, and somewhat hairy on both surfaces, the edges minutely serrated. Inflorescence spiked. Spike about an inch and a-halfin length, dense and uniform ; the rachis jointed, very brittle, toothed alternately on each side, the intermediate spaces flattened and bordered. Spikelets arranged in threes on each tooth of the rachis; of one-awned floret. Calyx of the central spikelet of two bristle-shaped glumes (Fig 1) of equal length. Central floret of two palez, the outer palea three-rib- ed, terminating in a long, rough awn, rather longer than the palea; imner palea acute, with a delicate bristle at the base, about half the length of the palea. Lateral spikelets pedunculated, the glumes bris- tle-shaped, (Figs. 2 and 3), rough. Lateral floret imperfect, furnish- ed with a short awn, not as long as the palea; occasionally the awn is altogether wanting. Obs.— Hordeum pratense is distinguished from Hordeum murinum im being of a taller and more slender habit, with the awns of the spike- lets shorter; the glumes of the middle spikelet bristle-shaped, and not fringed ; florets of the lateral spikelets with very short awns ;— whereas in H. murinum the glumes of the middle spikelet are dilated and fringed, and the florets of the lateral spikelets with very long awns. (Fig. 4.) From Hordeum maritimum, in being of a taller and more slender habit ; all the glwmes bristle-shaped (Fig. 2.) ;—whereas in H. mari- timum the inner glume of the lateral spikelet is dilated on one side, in the form of half-ovate. (Fig. 2.) Although this grass produces a tolerable early spring crop of foli- ° Hordeum pratense, Smith, Hooker, Lindley. Hordeum nodosum, Koch. 32 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. age, and contains a considerable quantity of nutritive matter, especi- ally during the time of flowering, it is not recommended for hay. It is found in moist, rich ground, and irrigated meadows, never on dry sandy heaths, although it is said to be partial to dry chalky soils. It forms the principal herbage in some pastures in Norfolk that are con- sidered excellent for sheep. In Scotland this grass is but rarely met with; found occasionally in the neighbourhood of Edinburgh. In England it occurs in the counties of Northumberland, Durham, Nottinghamshire, Derby, Cheshire, Flint, Denbigh, Worcester, Warwick, Leicester, Oxford, Bedford, Cambridge, Norfolk, Suffolk, Surrey, Kent, Sussex, and Somerset. It has not been found either in Devon or Cornwall. In Treland occasionally. It is confined principally to the middle parts of Europe, and does not seem to have been found in America ; its limit of altitude being about 500 feet above the sea. Flowers in the first week of July, and ripens its seed in the early part of August. 19. PoLYPOGON MONSPELIENSIS.* Annual Beard-Grass. Specific Characters.—Glumes with awns more than twice their length. (Plate XI.) Description.—It grows from nine to fifteen inches high. The root is fibrous, somewhat creeping. Stem erect, round, slightly roughish to the touch ; bearing five or six leaves, with smooth, striated sheaths ; the upper sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with a long, acute, roughish ligule. Joints smooth. Leaves flat, rather broad, acute, roughish on both surfaces, but generally smooth behind. Inflores- cence compound panicled. Panicle erect, dense, lobed and silky, from one and a-half to two inches long; branches rough, rachis nearly smooth. Spzkelet of one awned floret shorter than the calyx, (Fig. 3.) Calyx of two, lmear, hairy, obtuse, membranous glumes, (Fig. 1), strongly toothed on the lower half of the keels; without lateral ribs ; * Polypogon monspeliensis, Koch, Smith, Hooker, Lindley, Alopecurus monspeliensis, Linn. Agrostis triaristata, Knapp. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 33 each glume furnished with a long, slender, rough awn, arising im- mediately beneath the summit. loret of two pale, (Fig. 2), ‘the outer palea about half the length of the calyx, of an ovate form, with- out lateral ribs ; tipped with a small awn about half the length of the palea. Inner palea rather shorter than the outer palea, thin and pellucid, with the margins entire. Obs.—This species is readily distinguished from every other Bri- tish grass by the great length of the awns of the glumes. This grass has been applied to no agricultural use. It is rare ia Scotland, found only on the Fifeshire coast. In England it occurs along the coasts of Durham, Gloucester, Norfolk, Essex, Kent, and Hants. It has not been discovered either in Ireland or America. It is frequent along the Mediterranean, but does not exist further north than latitude 55°. Flowers early in July, and ripens its seed in the second week of August. 20. AGROSTIS VULGARIS.* Fine Bent-Grass. Specific Characters.—F loret of two palee. Ligule short and ob- tuse. Sheaths smooth. (Plate XII) Description.—The usual height about fifteen inches. The root is perennial, tufted, somewhat creeping. Stem erect, round, smooth, and polished ; bearing five or six leaves with smooth striated sheaths ; the upper sheath rather longer than its leaf, crowned with a short ob- tuse membranous ligule. Joints smooth. Leaves rather short, fiat, narrow, acute, rough on both surfaces, the edges minutely toothed. Inflorescence compound panicled. Panicle erect, of a brownish pur- ple, sometimes pale green, the branches very delicate, slender, rough, spreading zig zag, arising from the rachis in three or fours at equal distances. Spikelets small, numerous, glossy, of one small awnless floret, shorter than the calyx. Calyx of two narrow acute glumes, (Fig. 1), nearly of equal size, without lateral ribs, the larger glume the lowermost, minutely toothed on the upper halfof the keel. Fivret * Agrostis vulgaris, Withering, Smith, Hooker, Lindley, Greville, Koch, Cc ————— ee — 7 = Ser; 34 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. of two pale, (Fig. 2) the outer palea ovate, minutely notched at the summit without lateral ribs, smooth at the base. Inner palea about half the length of the outer palea, membranous, with the margins entire. pumila, (Plate XII.)a very small variety, from two to three inches long ; the root much tufted, throwing out three or four somewhat procumbent stems; ligule very short’ and obtuse; sheaths smooth. Common on dry alpine situations; flowering in July and August. aristata, (Plate XIII.) a variety growing to the height of fifteen inches. The leaves rough; sheaths smooth; ligule short and obtuse, but rather more prominent than in Agrostis vulgaris. Outer palea with a long slender dorsal awn arising a little above the - base, (Fig. 2), and extending conspicuously beyond the glumes of the calyx. Sometimes the awn is very short, scarcely perceptible, as seen in (Fig. 4.) Inner palea very thin, about half the length of the outer palea, furnished at the base witha tuft of short hairs. Care must be taken so as not to mistake this grass for Agrostis canina, whose floret has but one palea, and the ligule is long and pointed. Agrostis vulgaris is distnguished from Agrostis alba in the sheaths of the leaves being smooth to the touch; the ligule short and obtuse, and the large glume of the calyx toothed only on the upper part ;— whereas in A. alba the sheaths are rough (distinctly felt by passing the finger from above downwards, but smooth in the opposite direc- tion.) The ligule long and acute, and the large glume of the calyx toothed nearly to the base. This grass is said to be disliked by cattle generally, and is not of sufficient importance to merit the attention of agriculturists. It grows on dry heaths and pastures, sometimes at an elevation of nearly 2000 feet above the sea. It is common throughout England, Ireland, and Scotland; is found in Lapland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, France, Italy, and Northern Africa. It also occurs in America as far north as la- titude 72. Flowers in the first week of July, and ripens its seed in the se- cond week of August. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 35 21. AGROSTIS ALBA. * Marsh Bent-Grass. Specific Characters.—F loret of two palex ; ligule long and acute ; sheaths rough. (Plate XIII). Description.—It grows from eighteen inches to two feet high. The root is perennial, tufted, somewhat creeping. Stem erect, round, smooth, and polished ; bearing four or five leaves with roughish stri- ated sheaths, (the roughness is felt only from above downwards, some- times scarcely perceptible,) upper sheath longer than its leaf, crown- ed with a long acute ragged ligule, slightly ribbed at the sides. Joints smooth. Leaves rather short, flat, narrow, acute, very rough on both surfaces, as well as on the edges. Inflorescence compound panicled. Panicle erect, of a purplish tinge, with light-green florets, the branches rough, slender, when in flower, spreading, arising from the rachis mostly in fives, of various lengths, placed at equal distan- ces; the lowermost branches more or less tufted. Spikelets numerous, small, erect, of one small awnless floret, concealed within the calyx. Calyx of two narrow acute glumes, (Fig. 1), nearly of equal size, without lateral ribs; the larger glume the lowermost, minutely tooth- ed its whole length. Floret of two palex, (Fig. 2); the outer palea, ovate, minutely notched at the summit, without lateral ribs, furnished at the base with a small tuft of short hairs. nner palea about half the length of the outer palea, cloven at the summit, pellucid, the mar- gins entire. . stolonifera,, (Plate XIV). a variety with the branches of the panicles densely tufted. Sheaths roughish. Ligule long. Stem procumbent at the base. Root creeping, throwing out long procum- bent smooth stems, which take root at their joints. Frequently found by the sides of ditches and wet places, and also on clayey soil near the sea. Flowering in July and August. palustris, (Plate XIV). a variety with larger spikelets than usual. Outer palea awned a little beneath the summit, and fur- nished with a small tuft of hairs at the base. Ligule long and point- ed. Sheaths roughish. Commonly met with in damp shady stag- nant places. Flowering in July and August. * Agrostis alba, Linn. Smith, Hooker, Greville, Lindley. Agrostis stownifera, Koch. 36 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. Obs.— Agrostis alba is distinguished from Agrostis vulgaris in the sheaths being rough to the touch; ligule long and acute, and the heel of the large glume of the calyx toothed nearly to the base ;—whereas in A. vulgaris the sheaths are smooth. Ligule very short and obtuse, and the keel of the large glume of the calyx toothed only on the upper part. From Agrostis canina, in the floret having an inner palea, whilst in A. canina the inner palea is wanting. Farmers generally consider this grass a troublesome weed, as its long creeping roots impoverish the soil. It is eaten by cattle, but they are not fond of it. It grows in meadows, pastures, and dry sandy ground, and sometimes attains the elevation of nearly 2000 feet above the sea. Flowers in the third week of July, and ripens its seed in the end of August. 22. AGROSTIS CANINA. * Brown Bent- Grass. Specific Characters.—F loret of one palea. Ligule long. Sheaths smooth. (Plate XV.) Description.—It grows from one to two feet high. The root is pe- rennial, creeping. Stem erect, slender, slightly decumbent at the base, round, smooth, and glossy ; bearing four or five leaves with per- fectly smooth sheaths; the upper sheath much longer than its leaf, crowned with a long membranous pointed ligule. Joints smooth. Leaves narrow, taper-pointed, those of the root setaceous, rough on both surfaces, and serrated at the edges. Inflorescence compound panicled, of a greenish or yellowish-brown. Panicle erect, spreading while in flower, otherwise close; the branches very delicate, elastic, rough, with minute teeth ; arising from the rachis mostly in threes or fives. Spikelets numerous, small, acute, on footstalks about the length of the glumes; of one awned floret concealed within the calyx. Calyx of two unequal acute glumes, (Fig. 1), the outer glume the larger, without lateral ribs, toothed the whole length of its keel. Foret of * Agrostis canina, Linn. Smith, Hooker, Greville, Koch. Trichodeum caninum, Lind- ley, Schrader. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 37 one palea, (Fig. 2), of an ovate form, five-ribbed, minutely toothed at the summit, slightly hairy at the base, furnished with a long dorsal awn arising from a little above the base, and extending half its length beyond the summit of the palea. On some occasions the awn is very short, (Fig. 6.) alpina, (Plate XV.) a small alpine variety from two to three inches in length, differing in no respect whatever, except in size, from the Agrostis canina already described. Agrostis alpina of Koch. This variety is found in the Isle of Arran, on the summit of Ben Lawers, and the Clova mountains. Flowering in July and Au- gust. For agricultural purposes this grass is comparatively of no value. It grows chiefly on poor, wet, peaty soil, in small detached patches, seldom combined with any other species of grass. It is common in England, Scotland, and Ireland, as well as in Swe- den, Denmark, Germany, France, and Italy. Frequent in America, but is stated to have been introduced from Europe. 23. CALAMAGROSTIS STRICTA. * Small Close Reed. Specific Characters—Awn arising from below the centre of the outer palea. Hairs not longer than the floret. (Plate XVI.) Description.—It grows from eighteen inches to two feet high. The root is perennial, creeping. Stem erect, round and slightly roughish ; bearing two or three leaves with smooth striated sheaths ; the upper - sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with a very small ligule. Joints smooth. eaves narrow, acute and roughish. Inflorescence com- pound panicled. Panicle from three to five inches long, rather close ; branches and rachis rough. Calyx of two nearly equal rather broadish membranous glumes, (Fig. 1), without lateral ribs; rough- ish on the back; containing one awned floret. Floret of two palex, (Fig. 2), the outer palea equal in length to the calyx, of an ovate form, jagged at the summit, furnished at the base with long, straight hairs * Calamagrostis stricta, Koch, Lindley, Hooker. Arundo stricta, Smith, Hooker, Ft. Scot. 38° GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. not reaching beyond the summit of the floret. -Awn arising from a lit- tle below the centre of the outer palea, and not projecting beyond the summit of ‘the palea. Inner palea thin and pellucid, much shorter than the outer palea. Obs.— Calamagrostis stricta is distinguished from Calamagrostis Epigegos in being a much more delicate plant ; florets about half the size ; hairs from the base of the floret not extending beyond the floret; awn arising from rather below the centre of the outer palea and scarcely extending beyond the palea ;—whereas in C. Epigegos, the hairs extend considerably beyond the floret. Aven arising from rather above the centre of the outer palea, and projecting nearly half its length beyond the palea. This very rare plant is now extinct in Britain. It was found se- veral years ago by the late Mr G. Don in White Mire Marsh, one mile from Forfar. It is a native of the most northern parts of Europe and North America. Flowers in the third week in June and ripens.its seed in the end of July. 24, CALAMAGROSTIS EPIGEGOS.* Wood Reed. , Specifie Characters.—Awn arising from a little above the centre of the outer palea. Hairs much longer than the floret. (Plate XVI.) Description.—It grows from three to five feet high. The root is perennial, creeping. S¢em round, erect, rough (when felt from above downwards); bearing four leaves with smooth striated sheaths ; the upper sheath longer than its leaf; crowned with a long lanceolate di- vided ligule. Joints smooth. Leaves narrow, acute, taper-pointed, rough on the inner surface and edges; smooth on the back. Inflo- rescence compound panicled, of a brownish tinge. Panicle erect, close both before and after flowering, about a span in length; branches rough, arising in alternate clusters at certain distances along the round rough rachis. Calya of two equal narrow acute glumes, * Calamagrostis Epigegos, Lindley, Koch, Hooker, Arundo Epigegos, Smith. Arundo calamagrostis, Hooker, Fl. Scot. Lightfoot. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. -39 (Fig. 1), without lateral ribs, roughish towards the points; contain- ing one-awned floret shorter than the glumes. Floret of two palez, (Fig. 2), the outer palea ovate-lanceolate, without lateral ribs, termi- nating in to biffid points, furnished at the base with a number of long straight white hairs, egual in length to the calyx. Awn long and slender, arising from about the centre of the palea, and extend- ing as high as the summit of the hairs. Inner palea linear, membra- nous, acute, much shorter than the outer palea. Obs.— Calamagrostis Epigegos is distinguished from Calamagrostis stricta in the hairs of the floret extending about one-third their length beyond the floret, and the awn arising from a little above the centre of the outer palea, and projecting nearly half its length beyond the palea ;—whereas in C. stricta the hairs and awn scarcely extend beyond the floret. This grass possesses no agricultural merits of any importance. Cattle seldom touch it. It grows in moist woods and shady ditches. Frequently met with in the central parts of Scotland. In England it is found in Northumberland, Durham, Cumberland, York, Lincoln, Nottinghamshire, Anglesea, Salop, Worcester, Warwick, Leicester, Oxford, Bedford, Cambridge, Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, Surrey, Kent, Sussex, Dorset, and Somerset. Occasionally found in Ireland. It is also a native of Lapland, Norway, Sweden, Den- mark, and Germany, but in America it is unknown. Flowers in the end of July, and ripens its seed about the last week in August. 25. ANEMAGROSTIS SPICA VENTI. * Silky Bent-Grass. Specific Character—Awn arising from a little below the summit of the outer palea, and more than three times the length of the palea. (Plate X VIL.) Description.—It grows from eighteen inches to two feet high. The root is annual, fibrous. Stem erect, smooth, and round; bearing five leaves with somewhat roughish sheaths; the upper sheath longer * Anecmogrostis Spica venti; Lindley. Agrostis Spica venti, Koch, Hocker, Smith, 40 -GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. than its leaf, crowned with a long lanceolate jagged ligule. Joints naked. Leaves narrow, spreading, acute, ribbed, rough on both sur- faces. Inflorescence compound panicled, loose, spreading. Panicle large, silky in appearance, leaning to one side and elegantly waving with the wind ; its branches slender, rough, finely subdivided, ar- ranged in alternate bundles, the middle branch being the largest ; rachis mostly smooth and polished. Spikelets numerous, small, of one- awned floret equal in length to the calyx. Calyx of two unequal acute glumes, (Fig. 1), rough on the keels, the large glume the up- permost, three-ribbed. Foret of two palew, (Fig. 2), the outer palea of an ovate-lanceolate form, roughish, faintly three-ribbed, furnished with a tuft of hairs at the base. Awn rough, long, and slender, aris- ing from a little below the summit, more than three times the length of the palea. Inner palea \inear, membranous, rather shorter than the outer palea, biffid at the summit, the margins entire. Seeds very smooth. Obs.—The great length of the awn compared with the length of the floret will readily distinguish this grass. It is separated from the genus Agrostis in the lower glume being smaller than the upper glume, whilst in agrostis the lower glume is the largest. This is one of the rarest grasses we have in Scotland ; found only on the Fifeshire coast. In England, it is met with in Northumber- land, Durham, Cumberland, Lancashire, York, Warwick, Berks, Beds, Cambridge, Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Herts, Middlesex, Sur- rey, and Kent, but unknown in Ireland. It is a native of the middle and south of Europe. It has not been discovered either in Lapland, Norway, or Sweden, and no mention is made of its existence in Ame- rica. It grows in light, sandy soil, especially when it is occasionally overflowed. Flowers in June and July. 26. MiviumM EFFUsUM.* Spreading Millet Grass. Specific Characters—Branches of the panicle loose, spreading, (Plate X VIL.) * Milium effusum, Linn. Smith, Hocker, Lindley, Greville, Koch. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 41 Description. —It grows from three to four feet high. The root is perennial, fibrous, with several creeping shoots. Stem erect, smooth, slender, glossy, bearing five or six leaves with smooth striated sheaths; the upper sheath crowned with an oblong membranous ligule. Joints smooth. Leaves broad, flat, acute, of a light-green, glossy and smooth on both surfaces except towards the upper part, which is roughish as well as the edges. Inflorescence compound panicled. Panicle erect, large, loose, spreading; the branches long and slender, arising in alternate clusters at certain distances along the smooth rachis. Spikelets numerous, small, ovate, on slender roughish foot- stalks; of one awnless floret, concealed within the calyx. Calyx of two equal broad membranous glumes (Fig. 1), roughish, three-rib- bed. Floret of two palez, (Fig. 2), the outer palea smooth, membra- nous, glossy, without any perceptible ribs or keel. Inner palea about the same length as the outer palea, membranous, with the margins entire. Obs.—The large loose spreading panicle, with small one floret spikelets, will readily distinguish this grass, independent of the more minute characters. There appears to be but little nutritive properties in the foliage of this grass to render it of any agricultural advantage. The seeds are much sought after by small birds, and where game is preserved, this grass is recommended to be encouraged to save the corn. It grows naturally in damp shady woods, and will thrive when transplated in open exposed situations. It is common in many parts of Scotland as well as in England and Treland. Found also in Lapland, Norway, and Sweden, and as far south as the Mediterranean. It also occurs in the United States, to the most northern parts of North America. Flowers in the second and third weeks of June, and ripens its seed in the second week of August. 42 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 27. MELICA UNIFLORA.* Wood Melic-Grass. Specific Characters.—Infloresence simple panicled. Calyx con- taining but one perfect floret. (Plate X VIII.) Description.—It grows from twelve to eighteen inches high. The root is perennial, creeping. Stem erect, round, slender, roughish on the upper part, bearing four or five leaves, with rough striated sheaths; the upper part of the sheaths furnished with a few slender white hairs; upper sheath shorter than its leaf, crowned with a short obtuse membranous ligule with a small slender point or bristle projecting from one side. eaves long, flat, thin, of a bright green, acute, flaccid, finely striated, roughish on both surfaces as well as on the edges. Inflorescence simple panicled. Panicle slightly drooping, with few spikelets on long, slender, roughish footstalks ; the branches long, slender, arising from the rachis usually in pairs. Spikelets erect, of an ovate form, of one perfect and one imperfect awnless floret, concealed within the calyx. Calyx of two rather unequal smooth glumes, (Fig. 1), tinged with reddish-brown, five-ribbed, the lower glume the smaller. Foret of two palex, (Fig. 2), the outer palea broad, obtuse, smooth, seven-ribbed. Inner palea broad, oval, rather shorter than the outer palea, with two green marginal ribs minutely fringed. The imperfect floret on a long smooth footstalk, not extending beyond the lower fforet. Obs.—Melica uniflora is distinguished from Melica nutans in the | panicle being branched ; the lower spikelets on long footstalks ; calyx containing but one perfect floret and an abortive one ;—whereas in M. nutans all the spikelets arise immediately from the rachis on short footstalks allnearly of equal length. Calyx containing two per- fect florets and an abortive one. The most natural place of growth of this grass is in rocky moist shady woods having a clayey soil, situated about 300 feet above the sea. It is frequent in England, Ireland, Scotland, Germany, France, and Italy. It has not been found in America, or further north than * Melica uniflora, Linn. Smith, Hooker, Greville, Lindley, Koch. z / GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 43 latitude 62. Its limit of altitude seems to be about 1500 feet above the sea. Flowers in the second week of June, and ripens its seed in the last week of July. Cattle are fond of the leaves. 28. MELICA NUTANS.* Mountain Melic- Grass. Specific Characters.—Inflorescence racemed. Calyx containing two perfect florets. (Plate X VIII.) Description.—It grows from twelve to eighteen inches high, The root is perennial, creeping. Stem erect, slender, roughish on the upper part, bearing four or five leaves with rough striated sheaths ; upper sheath shorter than its leaf, crowned with a very short, obtuse ligule. eaves long, narrow, acute, flaccid, of a light green, smooth on the back, slightly hairy on the inner surface, and rough towards the points. Inflorescence racemed. Raceme long, usually of ten spike- lets, on short, rough footstalks. Spikelets large, ovate, pendulous, of two perfect, and one imperfect floret. Calyx of two broad rather unequal glumes (Fig. 1), of a reddish-brown, smooth, five-ribbed ; the lower glume the smaller. Florets of two palex, (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret equal in length to the glumes ; broad, ob- tuse, seven-ribbed, smooth. Inner palea broad, obtuse, with two green marginal ribs delicately fringed. Second floret elevated on a short smooth footstalk, but similar in other respects to the floret below. The third or imperfect floret of an oval form situated on a long smooth pedicle, not projecting beyond the calyx. Obs.—This grass is distinguished from Melica uniflora in the in- florescence being racemed, and the calyx containing two perfect florets ; —whereas in M. uniflora the inflorescence is simple panicled, and the calyx contains but one perfect floret. This grass is found most generally in rather damp shady woods, of an altitude of 500 feet above the sea, its limit being 2000 feet. In Scotlandit is not frequent ; found in Aberdeenshire, Forfarshire, Fife- shire, and near Edinburgh. In England it is met with in Northum- * Melica nutans, Linn. Smith, Hooker, Greville, Lindley, Koch. 44 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. berland, Durham, Cumberland, Westmorland, York, Nottinghamshire, Derby, Cheshire, Denbigh, Worcester, Suffolk, and Herts. Has not been found in Ireland or America. It occurs in Lapland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, France, and Italy. Flowers in the last week of May, and ripens its seed in July. From the early growth of this grass, and its thriving well in open situations when cultivated, it proves worthy of agricultural notice. 29. AIROCHLOA CRISTATA.* Crested Hair-Grass. Specific Characters.—Outer palea three-ribbed, stem downy. (Plate XIX.) Description-—It grows from three to six inches high. The root is perennial, with long, downy fibres, forming dense tufts. Stem erect, occasionally curved, round, downy, especially towards the up- per part; bearing two or three leaves, with hairy, striated sheaths ; the upper sheaths longer than its leaf, crowned with a short obtuse jagged ligule. Joints smooth, situated near the base. Leaves nar- row, acute, rather stiff, roughish, downy on both surfaces, the edges rough and more or less hairy ; the ribs more prominent on the inner surface, except the central rib, which is more conspicuous behind. Jn- florescence simple panicled, dense, of a silvery hue. Panicle erect, from one to two inches long, of an oval form, interrupted at the lower part ; the branches short, downy, arranged on the rachis in pairs, spreading when in flower, close and compact both before and after flowering. Spikelets compressed, of two awnless florets, not projecting beyond the glumes of the calyx. Calyx of two rather unequal acute glumes (Fig. 1), minutely toothed on the keels, the upper glume three-ribbed. Florets of two paler, (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret acute, three-ribbed, minutely toothed on the central rib. Inner palea about equal in length to the outer palea, cloven at the summit, and delicately fringed at the margins. Second floret elevated on a long downy footstalk; rather smaller than the floret below, but similar to it in every other respect. * Airochloa cristata, Link, Lindley. diva cristata, Smith, Hooker, Greville, Koe- leria cristata, Koch. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 45 Obs.— Airechloa cristata is distinguished from Azra, in which genus it is placed in the British Flora, in the florets having no awns, and not hairy at the base. This grass, from its rather stiff pubescent leaves, is supposed to be the principal cause why cattle seldom eat it. Its nutritive properties being as great as in most other grass. It is found in pastures of dry soil, especially near the sea, and on rocks of an elevation of 1500 feet above the sea. It is frequent in England, Scotland, and Ireland, as well as in Germany, France, and Italy. It has not been found in Lapland or North America. Flowers in the third week of June, and ripens its seed about the end of August. 30. MoLINEA DEPAUPERATA.* Tawny Melic-Grass. Specific Character.—Outer palea five-ribbed. (Plate XIX.) Description.—It grows from nine to twenty inches high. The root is perennial, of many strong yellowish fibres. Stem erect, round, smooth, bulbous at the base, bearing three leaves with smooth striat- ed sheaths; the upper sheath shorter than its leaf, crowned with a very short, almost imperceptible ligule. Joint smooth, situated very near the base. Leaves long, extending beyond the panicle, acute, smooth on the lower half, roughish upwards, hairy on the inner sur- face. Inflorescence simple panicled. Panicle erect, thin, few-flower- ed, close; the branches roughish and slender, arising from the angu- lar rachis, mostly solitary, seldom im pairs. Spikelets erect, of a bleached appearance, on long footstalks, of one awnless floret, some- times the rudiment of a second. Calyx of two membranous une- qual acute glumes, (Fig. 1), without lateral ribs) Foret of two palea, (Fig. 2,) the outer palea much longer than the glumes, acute, smooth, five-ribbed, the marginal ribs the broadest. Inner palea about equal in length to the outer palea, with two prominent ribs not fringed. * Molinea depauperata, Lindley. AG GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. Obs.—This grass isa well-marked species, and isreadily distinguished from Melinea cerulea in the leaves of the stem extending beyond the panicle. Panicle thin, few-flowered, colourless ; calyx containing but one floret ; outer palea five-ribbed ;—whereas in M. cerulea, the leaves do not extend beyond the panicle ; panicle many-flowered, of a purplish or greenish tinge ; calyx containing two or more florets ; outer palea three-ribbed. The only locality as yet known for this grass is the Clova moun- tains, at an elevation of 3000 feet above the sea. First discovered by © Mr Donald Munro. It flowers in August. 31. MoLIngEA C#RULEA.* Purple Melic-Grass. Specific Character.—Outer palea three-ribbed. (Plate XX.) Description.—It grows from one to two feet or more high. The root is perennial, of many strong fibres. Stem erect, smooth, round, bulbous at the base, bearing about three leaves, with smooth striated sheaths; the upper sheath shorter than its leaf, crowned with a very small ligule. Joint smooth, situated very near the base. Leaves long, linear, narrow, acute, taper-pointed, rough on both surfaces on the upper part; smooth below, besprinkled with hairs on the inner surface. Inflorescence compound panicled. Panicle erect, long, nar- row, and close; the branches slender, roughish, wavy, arising in tufts, alternately, at certain distances along the angular ribbed slightly wavy rachis. Spikelets small, numerous, mostly of two, sometimes three awnless florets, much longer than the glumes, generally of a purplish tinge ; in shady places of a light green. Calyx of two un- equal acute glumes (Fig. 1), smooth, three-ribbed (sometimes the lateral ribs are wanting). Florets of two pale, (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret acute, three-ribbed, smooth. Inner palea equal in length to the outer palea, furnished with two prominent green marginal ribs not fringed. Second floret elevated on a long, rough footstalk, but in other respects similar to the floret below. * Molinea cerulea, Lindley, Koch. Melica cerulea, Linn, Smith, Hooker, Gre- ville. Aira cerulea, Linn. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 47 Obs.—In Orkney and Shetland Isles, the stems of this grass are manufactured by fishermen into ropes ; and in England, the country people make them into brooms, which they sell at a cheap rate. This grass is comparatively of no agricultural value, as cattle seldom eat it. It grows on damp heathy places, and moors, and on the confines of peat-bogs, and is abundant in Scotland, England, and Ireland. It is found in Lapland, Norway, and Sweden, to the most southern parts of Europe. It has not been discovered in America. Flowers in the third week of July, and ripens its seed about the end of August. Its limit of altitude seems to be about 1500 feet above the sea. 32. CATABROSA AQUATICA.* Water Hair-Grass. Specific Character.—Leaves broadly linear, obtuse. (Plate XX.) Description.—It grows from one to two feet in length. The root is perennial, creeping, often floating, with long, white, shining fibres. Stem stout, round, smooth, procumbent at the base to a considerable length, often bearing three or four leaves, with smooth striated sheaths ; the upper sheath shorter than its leaf, crowned with an obtuse membranous ligule. Joints smooth. Leaves flat, broadly linear, obtuse, smooth, flaccid, of a light green. Inflorescence compound panicled. Panicle erect, the branches spreading, arranged on the smooth rachis in half whorls, generally three or four of unequal lengths arising from the same base, ultimately becoming reflexed. Spikelets nume- rous, rather small, pendulous, of two awnless fiorets much longer than the glumes, projecting one beyond the other. Calyx of two mem- branous very unequal obtuse glumes, (Fig. 1), roughish on the keel and sides; without lateral ribs; the lower glume much the smaller. Florets of two palez, (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret three-ribbed, notched at the summit, smoothat the keel. Inner palea about equal in length to the outer palea; linear, cloven at the sum- mit, and furnished with two green marginal ribs not fringed. Seé- cond floret elevated on a long smooth footstalk, but similar in other respects to the one below. * Catabrosa aquatica, Hook. Lindley. Aira aquatica, Smith, Hooker, Fl, Scot. Gre- ville. AS GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. Obs.— Catabrosa aquatica has been frequently confounded with Poa aquatica, (Plate XLIV.) but is readily distinguished by many characters ; the most prominent, however, are in the branches of the panicle, rachis, sheaths of leaves being perfectly smooth to the touch. Calyx containing but two florets ;—whereas in P. aquatica the bran- ches of the panicle, rachis, sheaths of leaves are very rough to the touch, and the calyx contains from four to eight florets. This species is said to be one of the sweetest of the British grasses, the young leaves and portions of the stems being remarkably sweet and pleasant to the taste, resembling that of liquorice. Water-fowls are fond of the seeds and young shoots. Cattle eat the leaves with a relish, but as the plant is strictly an aquatic, found to exist only in wet or muddy pools, in ditches, and such like places, render it unfit for cultivation. It is frequent in Scotland, England, and Ireland. It is found al- so in Lapland, Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, and Italy, as well as in the northern parts of South America. It has not been discover- ed in the United States. Its limit of altitude seems to be about 500 feet above the sea. It flowers in the second week of July, and ripens its seed in the middle of August. 33. Hoicus Lanatus. * Meadow Soft-Grass. Specific Characters.—Awn with the two lower thirds perfectly smooth. (Plate XXL.) Description.—It grows from one to two feet high. The root is perennial, fibrous. Stem erect, round, scarcely smooth, bearing four or five leaves with soft downy sheaths ; the upper sheath much longer than its leaf, inflated, crowned with an obtuse, membranous ligule ; the lower sheaths shorter than their leaves. Joints usually four, oc- casionally naked, but more frequently covered with soft downy hairs, with their points directed downwards. Leaves of a pale green, flat, broadish, acute, soft. on both surfaces, being covered with slender deli- cate hairs. Inflorescence compound panicled, of a greenish reddish * Holcus lanatus, Linn,, Smith, Hooker, Greville, Lindley, Koch. 3 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 49 or pinkish tinge. Panicle erect, usually somewhat of a triangular form ; spreading, (in the young state close), the branches hairy, aris- ing from the rachis alternately in pairs of unequal lengths. Spikelets pendulous, with hairy peduncles ; of two florets, the upper one awned. Calyx of two hairy membranous glumes (Fig. 1), of equal height, the upper glume the larger, of an oblong form, tipped with a minute bristle, hairy on the keel and upper part of the inner margins, fur- nished with a green rib on each side; lower glume somewhat crescent- shaped, hairy on the keel and upper part of the inner margins, with- out lateral ribs. Florets of two palee (Fig 2); the outer palea of lowermost floret of an oval form, about half the length of the calyx, obscurely five-ribbed, obtuse at the summit, hairy at the base, with a long naked footstalk. Inner palea about equal in length to the outer palea, membranous, obtuse, with the margins delicately fringed. Upper floret smaller than the lower one, elevated on a long naked footstalk ; furnished with a dorsal awn about half the length of the palea, arising from a little beneath the summit, and when ripe, cury- ed in the form of a fish hook, becoming concealed within the calyx ; sometimes the awn, during the early stage, projects conspicuously be- yond the calyx, its summit is slightly roughish, but the two lower thirds are perfectly smooth. Obs.— Holcus lanatus is distinguished from Holcus mollis in many respects, which are best seen by comparing the descriptions ; but the most simple and constant character is derived from the awn of the up- permost floret, which, in H. lanatus, is roughish at the summit, with the vo lower thirds perfectly smooth, while in H. mollis itis minutely toothed throughout its whole length, which can be readily seen by the assistance of a lens, (See Plate XXI. Fig. 2.). The unprotruded curved awn in H. lanatus is considered a good specific distinction by most authors, but in the flowering stage of the plant the awn is not curved, and protrudes slightly beyond the calyx, as in H. mollis, and becomes curved only as the seeds approach to maturity. The only advantages that this grass possesses are in its being productive and easy of cultivation. It has no merits either for pasture or hay, as cattle of every kind seem to dislike it, especially horses. It is a very common grass on shady banks; in woods and D 50 : GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. moist pastures, but attains to the greatest degree of luxuriance on light moist soils of a peaty nature. It is met with in almost every county throughout Britain. Not found in Lapland. Common in Germany, France, and Italy. Said to have been introduced into America. Its limit of altitude about 1500 feet above the sea. Flowers in the first week of July, and ripens its seed about the end of the same month. 34. Hotcus MOLLIs.* Creeping Soft-Grass. Specifie Characters—Awn rough throughout its whole length. (Plate XXL) Description.—It grows from one to three feet high. The root is perennial, creeping. Stem erect, round, and smooth, bearing four or five leaves with generally smooth sheaths ; the upper sheath much longer than its leaf, inflated, crowned with an obtuse membranous li- gule ; the lower sheaths shorter than their leaves. Joints usually four, covered with fine delicate hairs pointing downwards. Leaves of a pale green, flat, broadish, acute, slightly roughish and soft to the touch on both surfaces. Inflorescence compound panicled, soon be- coming of a bleached appearance. Panicle erect, when large, slightly drooping at the summit; the branches spreading, hairy, arising from the rachis alternately, in pairs of unequal lengths. Spikelets mostly ascending, with hairy peduncles; of two florets, the upper one awned. Calyx of two membranous glumes of equal lengths, (Fig 1), acute, hairy on the keels,roughish on the sides ; the upper glume the larger, three-ribbed; the lower glume without lateral ribs. Flores of two palex, (Fig. 2); the outer palea of lowermost floret of an oval form, about half the length of the calyx, without lateral ribs, obtuse at the summit, with three long delicate hairs at the base, and a long naked footstalk. Inner palea about equal in length to the outer palea, membranous, obtuse, with the margins delicately fringed. Upper floret smaller than the lower one, elevated on a long naked footstalk, furnished at the base with a tuft of white hairs; from a little below the summit arises a long awn about equal in length to the palea, * Holcus mollis, Linn, Smith, Hooker, Greyille, Lindley, Koch. 3 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. SL rough throughout its whole length, protruding at all times conspicu- ously beyond the calyx, when dry becoming bent but never curved ; in other respects, the upper floret is similar to the lower one. Obs. biaristatus, (Plate XXIL) This variety, when compared with Holeus mollis, has larger andfewer spikelets, generally of a bleached appearance; the ligule longer; the florets nearly of equal size, as long as thesmall glume of the calyx; acute at the summits, doth furnished with a long dorsal awn, rough throughout the whole length. Root creeping. At first I was led to consider this grass as a distinct species (in consequence of finding the awns constant in all those speci- mens I examined), and stated it as such at a meeting of the Royal Society of Edinburgh; but having since had an opportunity of exa- mining several dozen specimens from various localities, and not find- ing the characters constant throughout all the florets of the same pani- cle, lam induced te consider it as only a variety of HZ. mollis. Insome specimens the spikelets on the upper part of the panicle have both their florets distinctly awned, while the florets of the lower spikelets are si- milar in every respect to those of H. mollis. This variety is frequent- ly met with in damp shady woods, and occasionally in open boggy si- tuations. It flowers early in July. parvifiorus, (Plate X XII.) a variety from nine to twelve inches high, with very small spikelets of the size represented in the fi- gure, being not more than half the size of those of Holcus mollis. Flowers early in July, and is found in dry sandy woods. Holcus moilis is distinguished from Helcus lanatus (two species very closely allied), in the large glume of the calyx being acute; the da- teral rib situated nearer to the keel than to the inner margin. Aven of the floret minutely teothed its whole length, (see Fig. 4) ;—whereas in H. lanatus the large glume is more obtuse, tipped with a minute point or awn; Jateral rib situated nearer the inner margin than to the keel ; awn of the floret perfectly smooth nearly its whole length, and being roughish only on the upper third. (See Fig. 4). This grass is considered by farmers as a most troublesome weed, and with difficulty eradicated, especially when it gets possession of a soil that is favourable to its growth. Its long creeping root, which is said sometimes to exceed the length of four feet, is very impoverish- be GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. ing to the soil. It grows generally on light barren sandy soil, either in woods or open pastures, but neither cows, horses, or sheep eat it. Pigs are said to be fond of the roots, which possess a considerable quantity of nutritive matter, having very much the flavour of new meal. It isa common grass in some districts, but not so frequent as Holcus lanatus. Found in most of the counties in Britain. Not known in Lapland or America. Occurs in Sweden, Denmark, Germany, France, and Italy. Its limit of altitude about 1500 feet above the sea. Flowers in the second week in July, and ripens its seed in August. 35. AIRA CASPITOSA.* Tufted Hair-Grass. Specific Characters.—Awn arising from a little above the base of the floret, and scarcely extending beyond the jagged summit. (Plate XXIII.) Description.—It grows from eighteen inches to three feet high. The root is perennial, fibrous, tufted. Stem erect, round, roughish, bearing four or five leaves with mostly roughish striated sheaths; the upper sheath much longer than its leaf, crowned with a long acute membranous ligule. Joints smooth. Zeoves narrow, acute, harsh, strongly ribbed, roughish on both surfaces, but more so on the inner surface; radical leaves mostly long, linear and narrow, sometimes folded or involute. Inflorescence compound panicled, of a silky greenish grey, sometimes of a brownish tinge. Panicle large, at first drooping, afterwards erect, the branches spreading in every direction, rachis and branchesrough. Spzkelets numerous, small, of two or three awned florets, the upper one extending a little beyond the calyx. Calyx of two acute nearly equal glumes (Fig. 1); the upper glume three-ribbed, roughish on the central rib; the lower glume without lateral ribs. Florets of two palee, (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret shorter than the glumes, membranous, jagged or four-toothed on the summit, hairy at the base, without lateral ribs, furnished with a slender awn arising from a Lit- * Aira cespitosa, Linn, Smith, Hooker, Greville. Deschampsia cespitosa, Lindley. 4 3 Cyr GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. tle above the base, and extending scarcely above the summit of the palea. Inner palea membranous, linear, and entire at the margins, rather shorter than the outer palea. Second floret elevated on a hairy pe- dicle, and rather smaller than the lower floret, but similar to it in every other respect. vivipera, a viviparous variety occasionally found on the Clova mountains. Obs.—Aira cespitosa is at all times readily distinguished from Aira alpina in the awn arising from a little above the base of the outer palea ;—whereas in A. alpina, the awn arises from a little above the centre of the outer palea. (See Plate XXIIL Fig. 2.) From Aira fleruosa, in the awn of the lower floret not protruding beyond the glumes of the calyx ;—whereas in A. fleruosa the awn of the lower floret protrudes more than one-third its length beyond the glumes. (See Plate XXIV. Fig. 2.) This grass has a most unsightly appearance in meadows, pastures, and parks, as it grows into large tufts, and forming irregularities on the surface, which are termed by farmers rough-caps or hossacks, and are with difficulty got rid of, especially when numerous. From the extreme roughness and coarseness of the leaves, cattle seldom touch it, and possessing but little nutritive properties, does not merit the at- tention of agriculturists. It issaid to grow in every kind of soil and si- tuation, from the marsh to the dry sandy heath, but prefers moist clayey soils, where the water stagnates. It forms a good under cover for game and shelter for wild fowl. This grass is abundant in England, Scotland, and Ireland. It is found also in Lapland, Norway, Sweden, Ger- many, France, and Italy, as well as in the most northern parts of North America and the United States. Its limit of altitude is about 1500 feet above the sea. Flowers in the third week of July, and ripens its seed about the middle of September. 36. AIRA ALPINA.* Smooth Alpine Hair-Grass. Specific Characters—Awn arising from a little above the centre * Aira alpina, Smith, Hooker, Lindley. 54 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. of the floret, and not extending beyond the jagged summit. (Plate XXII.) Description.—lt grows from twelve to eighteen inches high. The root is perennial, fibrous. Stem erect, round, smooth, and polished ; bearing three or four leaves with smooth striated sheaths; the up- per sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with a membranous acute ligule. Joints smooth. Leaves narrow, acute, mostly involute, roughish on the inner surface and margins, smooth on the back, and strongly ribbed. Inflorescence compound panicled. Panicle erect, slightly drooping at the summit, of a silky brown appearance ; bran- ches capillary, smooth, arranged on the smooth rachis in pairs, at certain distances, Spikelets numerous, with very delicate footstalks ; of two, sometimes three-awned florets, the lower floret not protruding beyond the calyx. Calyx of two nearly equal acute membranous smooth glumes, (Fig. 1); the upper glume three-ribed; the lower without lateral ribs, and smooth on the keel. Florets of two palee, (Fig. 2); the outer palea of lowermost floret shorter than the glumes, of an oval form, jagged at the summit, hairy at the base, without la- teral ribs; keel roughish, furnished with a short rough awn aris- ing from a little above the centre, and extending as high as the sum- mit of the palea. Inner palea rather shorter than the outer palea, membranous, and minutely frmged at the margins. Second floret elevated on a hairy pedicle, rather smaller than the lower floret, but similar to it in every other respect. Obs.—This grass is readily distinguished from Azra flexuosa, which it somewhat resembles, im the awn arising from above the centre of the palea, and not extending beyond the summit of the palea ;—whereas in A. flexuosa the awn arises from a little above the base, and extends considerably beyond the summit of the palea. (See Plate XXIV. Fig. 2.) From Aira cespitosa, in the awn arising from a little above the centre of the outer palea ;—whereas in A. cespitosa the awn arises from a little above the base of the outer palea. (See Fig. 2.) Aira alpina is not unfrequently met with on several of the High- land mountains in Scotland, Ben Lomond, Ben Arthur, and moist rocks in Angus-shire, but is not found in England or Ireland, or below latitude 55. It is a northern plant, frequent in Lapland, and the GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. v9 most northern parts of North America. Its lowest limit of altitude is 3000 feet above the sea. Flowers in the first week of August, and ripens its seed in the se- cond week of September. Sheep seldom touch it, as the leaves are generally found entire. 37. AIRA FLEXUOSA.* Wavy Mountain Hair-Grass. Specific Characters—Awn arising from a little above the base of the floret, and extending considerably beyond its summit. (Plate XXIV.) Description.—It grows from twelve to eighteen inches high. The root is perennial, fibrous, woolly in sandy ground. Stem erect, fiat- tish, smooth, striated, bearing three or four leaves with roughish (from above downwards) striated sheaths; the upper sheath much longer than its leaf, crowned with a membranous acute ligule. Joints smooth. Leaves very narrow, acute, of a dark-green, the radical leaves smooth, long, and numerous; those of the stem roughish from pointto base. Inflorescence compound panicled, ofa pale brownish-green. Panicle erect, the branches spreading, very slender, roughish, tri- ple-forked ; lower part of the rachis and branches frequently wavy. Spikelets erect, of two-awned florets, not protruding beyond the calyx. Calyx of two nearly equal membranous glumes (Fig. 1), without la- teral ribs, and slightly roughish at the keels. Florets of two pale, (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret bifid at the summit, hairy at the base, with two delicate ribs on each side; keel roughish, furnished with a slender awn arising from a little above the base, and extending considerably beyond the summit of the palea. Inner palea membranous, very thin, about equal in length to the outer palea, and very minutely fringed at the margins. Second floret elevated on a hairy footstalk, rather smaller than the lower floret, but similar to it in every other respect. Obs.— Aira flexuosa is distinguished from Aira caryophyllea, in the spikelets being twice as large, and the upper sheaths rough from © Aira flexuosa, Linn. Smith, Koch, Hooker, Greville. 56 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. above downwards ;—whereas in A. caryophyllea the spikelets are very small, and the sheaths rough from below upwards. This grass grows on heaths and hilly places, and is sometimes found at an elevation of 3500 feet above the sea. It does not thrive on a clayey soil. Sheep eat it, but is not recommended for cultivation. It abounds in England, Scotland, and Ireland ; also found in Lapland, Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, and Italy, as well as in the middle and most northern parts of North America. Flowers in the first week of July, and ripens its seeds in the mid- dle of August. 38. AIRA CARYOPHYLLEA.* Silver Hair-Grass. Specific Characters.—Awn longer than the palea, arismg from a little beneath the middle. Panicle spreading. (Plate XXIV.) Description.—It grows from six to twelve inches high. The root is annual, fibrous. Stem erect, round, smooth, and striated, bearmg three or four leaves with striated roughish sheaths (the roughness is mostly on the upper half, arising from minute spicula with their points directed downwards); the upper leaf much longer than its sheath, crowned with a prominent acute ligule. Joints smooth. Leaves mostly all on the stem, short, narrow, roughish to the touch. Jn- Jflorescence compound panicled, of a silvery grey. Panicle erect, the branches spreading occasionally zig-zag, but not wavy, slightly roughish, triple-forked, often tinged with purple; rachis smooth. Spikelets small, rounded at the base, and somewhat tumid; of two awned florets not protruding beyond the summit of the glumes. Calyx of two equal membranous glumes, (Fig. 1), without lateral ribs, slightly toothed at the keels. Florets of two pale, (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret bifid or somewhat beaked at the summit, hairy at the base, without lateral ribs, furnished with a slender awn, arising from a little beneath the centre, and extending about half its length beyond the summit of the palea. nner palea membranous, * Aira caryophyllea, Linn. Smith, Hooker, Greville, Lindley. ai? GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. ay & thin, about equal in length to the outer palea, and very minutely fringed at the margins. Second floret on a very short smooth pedicle, but in other respects similar to the one below. Obs.—This grass is very closely allied to Atra precor, especially when young, but differs from it in being generally a taller plant, with smaller spikelets; the branches of the panicle more spreading, especially when in seed ; the calyx somewhat of a quadrangular form, rounded at the base; the awn arising from a little beneath the centre of the palea ;—whereas in A. precox the panicle is close, the calyx of a triangular form, nearly acute at the base, and the awn arises from nearer the base. (See Plate XXV. Figs. 1, 2, 3.) This grass to the farmer is of minor consideration, as it produces but little foliage, which soon withers. It grows on dry gravelly places, and is frequent in England, Scotland, and Ireland, as well as in Ger- many, France, and Italy, but has not been discovered in Lapland or America. Its limit of altitude about 1500 feet above the sea. Flowers in the third week of June, and ripens its seed in the end of July. 39. AIRA PR2=COX. * Early Hair- Grass. Specific Characters—Awn longer than the palea, arising from a little above the base. Panicle close. (Plate XXV.) Description.—It grows from four to six inches high. The root is annual, fibrous. Stem erect, round and smooth, bearing four or five leaves, with rough, striated, slightly inflated sheaths, (the roughness is mostly on the upper part of the sheaths, very perceptibly felt when the finger is passed from below upwards, but smooth in the opposite di- rection); the upper sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with a lan- ceolate membranous ligule, closely embracing the stem; the lower sheaths shorter than their leaves. Joints smooth. Leaves mostly all on the stem, narrow, roughish to the touch, especially the upper- most oues. Inflorescence simple panicled; of a greenish silvery appearance. Panicle erect, close; the branches roughish; rachis * Aira precox, Smith, Hooker, Lindley, Greville. 58 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. mostly smooth. Spikelets of two awned florets, both enclosed within the calyx. Calyx of two equal acute glumes, (Fig. 1), without la~ teral ribs, minutely toothed on the keels. Florets of two pales, (F ig. 2); the outer palea of lowermost floret bifid or somewhat beak- ed at the summit, hairy at the base, roughish on the back ; obscurely five-ribbed ; furnished with a long, slender, rough awn, arising from a little above the base, and extending about half its length beyond the summit of the palea. Inner palea membranous, about equal in length to the outer palea, and very minutely fringed at the margins. Second floret elevated on a short smooth pedicle, but in other respects similar to the floret below. | Obs.—Aira precox is sometimes with difficulty distinguished from Aira caryophyllea, but may be at all times known by the panicle being close, not exceeding half-an-inch in width ; calyx rather acute at the base ;—whereas A. caryophyllea is generally a taller plant, with much smaller spikelets. Panicle spreading, seldom less than an inch in width. Calyx somewhat rounded at the base. An early grass of little value ; the leaves soon dry up. Found on sandy hills and wall tops. Occasionally met with im Scotland, but not common; more frequent in England and Ireland. Found in Germany, France, Italy, and North America, but not known in Lap- land. Its limit of altitude is about 1500 feet above the sea. Flowers in the last week of May, and ripens its seed by the end of June. 40. ARRHENATHERUM AVENACEUM.* Oat-like Soft-Grass. There is but one species of this genus known. (Plate XXV.) Description.—It grows from two to three feet high. The root is perennial, fibrous, sometimes bulbous. Stem erect, round and polished, bearing four or five leaves with striated mostly smooth sheaths; the upper sheath much longer than its leaf, smooth, some- times roughish, crowned with a small obtuse ragged ligule. Joints * Arrhenatherum avenaceum, Lindley, Hooker. Arrhenatherum clatior, hoch. Hol- cus avenaceus, Smith, Hooker, Fl. Scot. Greyil’e. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 39 smooth, occasionally hairy. Leaves flat, narrow, acute, harsh, rough- ish on both surfaces, but more so on the inner surface. Inflorescence simple panicled. Panicle leaning slightly to one side; the branches rather short and rough, the lower ones arising from the rachis mostly in fives. Spikelets rather large, erect, mostly on long footstalks, of two awned florets. Calyz of two very unequal acute membranous glumes, (Fig. 1); the upper one the larger, three-ribbed, roughish along the central rib; the lower glume without lateral ribs, and about one-half the size of the upper glume. Florets of two palee, (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret about the length of the calyx, acute roughish, seven-ribbed, the central rib roughish, hairy at the base, fur- nished with a long slender awn, longer than the palea, and arising from a little above the base. Inner palea membranous, linear, acute, minutely fringed at the margins. Second floret elevated on a short hairy pedicle, furnished with a very short awn, arising from a little beneath the apex of the outer palea; the floret in every other respect is the same as the lower one. bulbosum, (Plate XX VI.) a common variety with bul- bous or knotty roots, found in rich cultivated fields, also on light dry soils. Obs.— Arrhenatherum avenaceum is readily distinguished from other grasses, by having two florets, the lower floret with a long awn aris- ing from a little above the base of the outer palea, the second floret with a very short awn arising immediately from a little beneath the apex. (See Fig. 2). This grass produces a plentiful and early supply of foliage, and is valuable either for hay or pasture, but its agricultural merits in this country are as yet but little known. On the continent it is highly prized, and eaten with avidity by all kinds of cattle, although it is said to be unpalatable to horses. It is found growing in woods and pastures, and is frequently a troublesome weed in corn-fields. Its produce is said to be greater on a clayey than on a heathy soil, in the proportion of 25 to 8. It is frequent in Scotland, England, Ireland, Germany, France, Italy, and the United States, but does not exist in Lapland or the 60 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. northern parts of North America. Its limit of altitude seems to be . about 1500 feet above the sea. Flowers in the third week of June, and ripens its seeds about the end of July. The observations of Mr Lawson in his valuable work on agricul- ture tends in a great measure to prove that the bulbous variety de- serves a claim as a distinct species. He states, “ that the seeds of the true fibrous variety never produce bulbous-rooted plants, although sown in the most light dry soils, and suffered to grow on such for a great length of time. Seeds of the bulbous-rooted sort will, on the other hand, produce plants having bulbous roots the first season of their growth, on whatever kind of soil they may be sown.” Such also seems to be the opinion of Professor Lindley, Professor Schrader, Sir Thomas Cullum, and others; which Sir James Smith, Sir William Hooker, and Professor Koch do not seem inclined to admit, as the roots of Phleum pratense and Alopecurus geniculatus, which are mostly fibrous, become bulbous on a dry barren soil. 41. AVENA STRIGOSA. * Bristle-pointed Oat. Specific Characters.—Florets equal in length to the calyx, and terminating in two long straight bristles. (Plate XX VL.) Description—It grows to the height of three feet. The root is annual, fibrous. Stem erect, round, smooth, and polished, bearing four or five leaves, with smooth, striated sheaths; the upper sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with an oblong membranous, often rag- ged ligule. Joints smooth. eaves rather broad, acute, rough to the touch on both surfaces, more or less glaucous; the central rib on the under surface polished. Jnflorescence simple panicled, very much resembling the common cultivated oat in appearance. Panicle mostly turned to one side, with long, rough, lateral branches; the rachis mostly smooth. Spikelets large, oval, of two awned florets. Calyx of two rather unequal acute membranous smooth somewhat polished glumes (Fig 1); the lower glume the smaller, seven-ribbed ; * Avena strigosa, Linn., Smith, Koch, Hooker, Lindley. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 61 the upper glume nine-ribbed; the ribs conspicuous, of a greenish colour. Florets of two palee (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret equal in length to the large glume, terminating in two straight rough bristles; six-ribbed, roughish to the touch, (sometimes hairy.) Inner palea membranous, shorter than the outer palea, linear, acute, the margins delicately fringed. ~ The second floret elevated on a hairy footstalk. Awn stout, rough, bent, arising a little below the centre of the outer palea, and about twice the length of the palea. Obs.— Avena strigosa very much resembles the common cultivated oat (Avena sativa) in its general appearance, but is readily distin- guished from it as well as from Avena fatua, in the florets terminating in two long straight bristles. In Scotland this grass is not unfrequent, especially in Inverness, Aberdeen, Forfar, and Perthshires, generally in corn-fields and waste places. In England it occurs in the counties of Durham, York, Den- bigh, Notts, Anglesea, Sussex, and Cornwall. Confined principally to the central parts of Europe; not found in Italy, Lapland, or Ame- rica. Its limit of altitude is about 1000 feet above the sea. Flowers in the first week of July, and ripens its seed in the middle of August. 42. AVENA FATUA.* Wild-Oat. Specific Characters.—F loret shorter than the calyx ; not bristled at the summit. (Plate XX VIL) Description.—It.grows to the height of three feet. The rovt is an- nual, fibrous, thick at the base. Stem erect, round, smooth, and po- lished ; bearing four or five leaves with smooth striated sheaths, (sometimes the lower sheaths are hairy); upper sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with an obtuse membranous ligule. Joints smooth. Leaves flat, linear, finely ribbed, rough to the touch, occasionally hairy. Inflorescence simple panicled. Panicle large, spreading ; the rachis smooth, the branches rough. Spikelets large, ovate-lan- ceolate, drooping or pendulous, of two, occasionally three florets. * Avenz fatua, Linn. Koch, Smith, Hooker Lindley. 62 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. Calyx of two membranous smooth acute glumes (Fig 1), nearly of equal lengths; the outer glume the smaller, seven-ribbed ; the inner glume eleven-ribbed. Forets of two palez, (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret ovate, acute, much shorter than the calyx, eight- ribbed, furnished with several long reddish-brown hairs, with their points directed upwards. Inner palea shorter than the outer pa- lea, membranous, with two green marginal ribs minutely fringed. Awn more than twice the length of the floret, of a reddish-brown, twisted and bent, arising a little beneath the centre of the outer palea. Seeds hairy. Obs.— Avena fatua is distinguished from Avena strigosa in the florets being much shorter than the calyx ; outer palea with four ribs on each side; the summit acute, but not awned;—whereas in A. strigosa the florets are equal in length to the calyx ; outer palea with only three ribs on each side; the summit terminating in two acute stout bristles. From Avena sativa, (common cultivated oat), in the spikelets being much larger ; outer palea very hairy, with four ribs on each side; —whereas in A. sativa the outer palea is not hairy, and there are but three ribs on each side. This grass is generally found in corn-fields, especially among bar- ley, where it proves a troublesome weed. It is occasionally met with in Scotland, but more frequent in England and Ireland. It occurs in Lapland, Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, Italy, Asia, and North Africa. Not found in America. Flowers in the first week in July, and ripens its seed about the end of August. Its limit of altitude seems to be about 1000 feet above the sea. The florets, on account of their somewhat resemblance to artificial flies, are occasionally used by rustic fishermen to catch trout, and of- ten with success. The awns make excellent hygrometers, bemg very sensitive to the humidity of the atmosphere, which causes them to expand, and during dry weather they contract. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 63 43. SESLERIA CZRULEA. * Blue Moor-Grass. Specific Characters—Raceme oval. Outer palea toothed at the summit, (Plate XX VIL.) Description.—It grows from six to twelve inches high. The root is perennial, creeping, throwing out long fibres. Stem slender, of a light green, erect, round, and smooth, bearing three very short leaves with smooth sheaths; the upper sheath more than eight times the length of its leaf, crowned with a short obtuse membranous ligule ; the lower sheaths also longer than their leaves. Joints covered by the sheaths, situated near the base. Zeaves from the root rather long, lear, and narrow, compressed when young, terminating in a sharp poimt; eleven-ribbed, the central rib the most prominent, especially on the posterior surface ; the margins minutely toothed ; slightly roughish on the inner surface, smooth and polished behind ; those on the stem broad for their length, especially the two lower- most, which are'rather near together, the upper one situated about the centre of the stem, the edges minutely serrated as well as the dor- sal rib, which terminates in a minute point. Inflorescence racemed. Raceme of an oval form, seldom exceeding half-an inch in length; of a bluish purple appearance. Spikelets imbricated on all sides of the rachis, arranged mostly in pairs on very short footstalks ; of two or three awned florets, protruding beyond the calyx, (Fig. 3.) Calyx of two nearly equal acute broad membranous glumes, (Fig. 1), without lateral ribs, and minutely toothed on the upper half of the keels. Florets of two pale, (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret five-ribbed, four-toothed at the summit, the central rib rough and terminating in a short awn. nner palea linear, bifid at the summit, about equal in length to the outer palea, furnished with two green marginal ribs minutely fringed. Filaments three, capillary, protruding beyond the paler. Anthers prominent, not quite the length of the inner palea, linear, notched at each end, of a bleached appearance. Ovarium, small, white, globose, pointed at the base, very * Sesleria cerulea, Koch, Smith, Hooker, Lindley. 64 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. hairy. Style short, combined. Stigmas long, linear, downy, at first unit- ed nearly to the summit, afterwards separate, protruding very conspi- cuously beyond the pale. Scales two, membranous, acute. (Fig. 4.) Obs.—This grass is so striking in its general appearance that there is no other it can well be mistaken for. It is readily distinguished from Alopecurus alpinus and Phleum alpinum, in the calyx containing more than one floret. (See Plates IV. V1.) On some of the Highland mountains in Scotland, this grass is found plentiful, especially on Ben Lomond, at an elevation of 3000 feet above the sea. In England it is found in the counties of York, Westmorland, Cumberland, and Durham. Occasionally in Ire- land, in the county of Sligo, on limestone rocks. It is also found in Iceland, Sweden, Germany, France, and Italy. Flowers in the end of April and beginning of May, and ripens its seed about the middle of June. 44, CYNOSURUS CRISTATUS. * Crested Dog’s-tail Grass. Specific Characters.—Florets with a very short awn. (Plate XXVIII.) Description.—It grows from twelve to eighteen inches high. The root is perennial, fibrous, tufted. Stem erect, round, smooth, and finely striated, bearing five leaves with smooth sheaths; the upper: sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with a short obtuse ligule. Joints smooth. Leaves flat, narrow, acute, rough on the inner surface, smooth and glossy behind. Inflorescence simple panicled. Panicle erect, from an inch to an inch and a-half or more in length, linear, at first green, turning brown with age; lateral branches very short, rough, arranged alternately on the rough, wavy, ribbed rachis. Spikelets of three to five florets, accompanied at the base with a beau- tiful pectinated involucre with rough linear acute somewhat curved divisions, (Figs. 3, 4); the spikelets and involucres are directed to one side of the rachis, which is by that means completely hidden, * Cynosurus cristatus, Lindley, Linn., Hooker, Smith, Greyille. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 65 while the other side is visible. Calyx of two narrow acute mem- branous glumes (Fig. 1), of equal lengths, without lateral ribs; the keel rough. Florets of two palee (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret longer than the calyx, of an ovate lanceolate form, obscurely five-ribbed, tipped with a short rough awn. Inner palea membranous, pellucid, rather shorter than the outer palea, with the margins minutely fringed. This is a most valuable grass for permanent pasture, but by no means recommended for the purpose of hay, as the stems when dry are hard and tough, containing but little nutritive matter at the time the seed is ripe; but during the time of flowering the grass is succulent. and tender, affording twice the quantity of nourishment than at a more advanced stage, when it becomes the favourite food of deer and sheep. It thrives better in tenacious elevated soils, than in those of a drier or sandy nature, and in irrigated meadows at- tains an unusual size. As cattle prefer the young leaves, the stems remain untouched, and when dry assume an unsightly appearance in pastures, lawns, and pleasure-grounds, where this grass generally abounds. The stems are valuable for the manufacture of plat for Leghorn hats and bonnets, and are said to be superior even to the Italian straw. For this purpose they should be gathered in a green state, about the time of flowering, and covered with boiling water for ten minutes, afterwards spread out to bleach for eight days; or they may be placed in boiling water for one hour, afterwards spread out and kept regularly moistened as they become dry for two days, then place them in a close vessel, and subject them to the fumes of burn- ing sulphur for two hours. Also, by immersing the stems for ten minutes in a strong solution of acetic acid, then subjecting them to sul- phurous acid gas, they become bleached in half-an hour. There are many species of grasses found in this country adapted to supply fine and beautiful straw not inferior to that of Leghorn, viz. Festuca ovina angustifolia, Festuca duriuscula, Nardus stricta, Poa pratensis umbrosa, Hordeum pratense, Trisetum flavescens, Agrostis alba, and Agrostis canina. Cynosurus cristatus is a common grass in Scotland, England, and Ireland, in open pastures. Found also in Norway, Sweden, Prussia, E 60 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. Germany, France, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland, and Italy, but has not been discovered in Lapland or America. Its limit of altitude, 2000 feet above the sea. Flowers in the first week in July, and ripens its seed in the second week of August. 45. CYyNOSURUS ECHINATUS, * Rough Dog’s-Tail Grass. Specific Characters.—F lorets with a long awn, about equal in length to the palea. (Plate XXVIII.) Description.—It grows from ten to twenty inches high. The root is annual, tufted, strong, frequently with woolly fibres. Stem erect, round, smooth, and finely striated, bearing five leaves with slightly roughish sheaths; the upper sheath about equal in length to its leaf, crowned with a long pointed ligule. Joznts short, smooth. Leaves flat, broad at the base, tapering to a sharp point, rough on both surfaces, of a dull light green. Inflorescence simple panicled, dense, various in luxuriance, of a silvery green. Panicle somewhat oval, from half-an inch to an inch in length, and from a quarter to half-an inch broad, with very short rough branches all leaning to one side. Spikelets usually of three-awned florets, accompanied at the base with a beauti- ful pectinated involucre, with rough acute divisions, Fig. 3, (Fig. 4, involucre magnified.) Calyx of two narrow acute membranous glumes, nearly of equal lengths, without lateral ribs, roughish on the keels (Fig. 1.) Florets of two palez; the outer palea of lowermost floret much shorter than the calyx, of an ovate lanceolate form, five- ribbed, tipped with a long slender rough awn, about equal in length to the palea, (Fig. 2.) nner palea membranous, pellucid, rather shorter than the outer palea, with the margins minutely fringed. Obs.—This plant, independent of its dense bristly panicle, is dis- tinguished from Cynosurus cristatus in many respects ; as in the leaves being broader and roughish behind; ligule long and acute; calyx much longer than the lowermost floret; awn equal in length or longer than the outer palea, and the involucre larger, rougher, and more bristly ;—whereas in C. cristatus the leaves are smooth and po- * Cynosurus echinatus, Linn, Koch, Smith, Hooker, Lindley. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 67 lished behind ; Uigule short and obtuse ; calyx shorter than the lowermost floret; awn very short, about one-fourth the length of the palea ; and the involucre acute but not awned. Professor Graham, at a meeting of the Royal Botanical Society, November 12, 1840, mentioned the Cynosurus echinatus as having been found by Mr Thomas Edmonston, on a barren moor in one of the Shetland Islands, being the only locality known in Scotland for this interesting addition to the Scottish Flora. It is also met with, although not common, in Northumberland, Durham, and the Isle of Jersey. It does not occur in Ireland, Lapland, Norway, Sweden, or America, or further north than the Shetland Islands. It is found in Germany, France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Northern Africa. Of no material agricultural use. Flowers in the end of June, and ripens its seed in August. 46. DacTyLIs GLOMERATA.* Rough Cock’s-Foot Grass. Specific Characters.—Spikelets in dense globular unilateral tufts. Outer palea with a minute point a little beneath the summit. (Plate XXIX.) Description.—It grows to the height of two feet or more. The root is perennial, fibrous, tufted. Stem erect, round, striated, and rough, bearing five or six leaves with rough striated sheaths ; the upper sheath crowned with an elongated, membranous, often torn ligule. Joints smooth. Leaves linear, flat, acute, spreading, rough on both surfaces, harsh, of a dull-green, the edges minutely toothed. Inflorescence compound panicled. Panicle erect, tufted, the upper part dense; rachis and branches rough ; the lowermost branches spreading and furnished with a tubercle at the base. Spikelets nume- rous, crowded, unilateral, on short, rough footstalks ; usually of three florets. Calyx of two unequal glumes, (Fig. 1), membranous, more or less hairy, especially on the keels. Florets of two palez (Tig. 2); the outer palea of lowermost floret rather longer than the calyx, five-ribbed, hairy on the keel, furnished with a minute point arising * Dactylis glomerata, Linn, Smith, Hooker, Lindley, Greyille. 68 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. from a little beneath the summit. Inner palea membranous, about equal in length to the outer palea, and minutely fringed at the mar- gins. The Cock’s-Foot Grass, one of the commonest of all grasses, is found in orchards, woods, hedges, and waste places, and is said to have been originally introduced from Virginia by the Society of Arts. It grows most luxuriantly in damp and shady situations. As an agricultural grass, Mr Sinclair states, that it is deserving of parti- cular notice, that the herbage, when suffered to grow rank or old for want of sufficient stocking, contains nearly one-half less nourish- ment than that which is of recent growth. Hence this grass is of more value for pasture than for hay; yet, even for the latter purpose, it will be found superior to rye-grass (Lolium perenne), and many other grasses. To reap the full benefit of its merits as a pasture grass, it should be kept closely cropped either by cattle or the scythe. Oxen, sheep, and horses eat this grass readily, but dislike it when allowed to grow too coarse. It succeeds best when the subsoil is porous and not stagnant, so that the fibrous root may penetrate to a considerable depth, which causes the plant to be productive in an extraordinary degree, and remains permanent. But when the surface soil is thin, incumbent on tenacious clay, or when the subsoil is retentive of su- perfluous moisture, this grass succeeds imperfectly, and the slender hold that the roots have in such soil renders the plant liable to be drawn out of the ground by the cattle when grazing. The pastures most celebrated for fattening stock in Devonshire, Lincolnshire, and in the vale of Aylesbury, are partly formed of this grass. It is less impoverishing to the soil than the rye-grass. A combination of three parts, cock’s-foot, and one part composed of Festuca duriuscula, Bucetum pratense, Poa trivialis, Phleum pratense, and Lolium per- enne will secure the most productive and nutritive pasture in al- ternation with grain crops. Dactylis glomerata is common throughout Scotland, England, Ire- land, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, France, Spain, Portu- gal, Northern Africa, Russia, and the United States. It is not found in Lapland, or further north than latitude 63. Its limit of altitude seems to be about 1000 feet above the sea. Flowers from June till August. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. &9 47. ArnunDo PHRAGMITEs.* Common Reed. Specific Characters—Florets longer than the calyx. (Plate XXIX.) Descriptions.—It grows from five to six feet high. The root is per- ennial, creeping. Stem erect, round, stout, and smooth; bearing fifteen or more leaves, all nearly of equal size, with somewhat rough- ish striated sheaths, longer than their leaves and without ligules. Joints about fifteen, smooth and polished. Leaves broad, lanceolate, many-ribbed, smooth on both surfaces as well as on the edges, about a foot in length, arranged on one side of the stem, frequently split at their summits, and divided in almost capillary points. Inflorescence compound panicled. Panicle very large, at first chocolate colour, at length of a light brown, drooping to one side; branches half- whorled, angular, nearly smooth, the base of lowermost branches of- ten furnished with a tuft of short silky hair. Spikelets numerous, be- fore flowering, ovate-lanceolate, afterwards spreading, of three awn- less florets. Calyx of two unequal narrow acute glumes (Fig. 1,) with a rib on each side; the uppermost glume elevated on a short peduncle. Florets of two palee (Fig 2), the outer palea of lower- most floret about twice the length of the large glume, lanceolate, three-ribbed. Inner palea short, about half the length of the outer palea, minutely fringed on the upper part. Pedicle of the second floret with long, white, silky hairs, gradually elongated as the flow- ers advance, and finally spreading in every direction, giving a beau- tiful silky like appearance to the large panicle while waving in the wind. Although this grass or reed has no agricultural merits, yet it Is ser- viceable in many points of view. “In Sweden the country people use the panicle to dye woollen cloth green. The reeds are used for thatching, and found to be more durable than straw. Garden screens are made of them, and they form a good foundation for plaster floors; they are also in demand by brick-makers. Till the introduction (in the seventh century) of pens made from the quills * Arundo phragmites, Linn. Smith, Hooker, Greville, Lindley. Phragmites communis. Koch. 70 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. of birds they were likewise in general use for writing. They also oc- casionally serve for arrows. The young shoots cut off from the root, where not exposed to the light, make an excellent pickle. The nest of the sedge-warbler is generally found suspended between the stems at a small height from the ground. Entomologists may sometimes find a considerable variety of insects on the panicles, whither they re- sort for food or shelter,” * and it also forms an excellent shelter for wild-fowl. This is a common plant in Scotland, England, and Ireland, found in ditches, margins of lakes, and rivers. It is also a native of Lap- land, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, France, Spain, Portu- gal, Italy, Russia, North Africa, New Holland, British America, and the United States. Flowers in August, and ripens its seed in September. 48. TRIODIA DECUMBENS. ft Heath- Grass. Specific Characters.—Florets four. Glumes smooth. (Plate XXX.) Description.—It grows from five to twelve inches in length. The root is perennial, somewhat creeping, with strong fibres. Stem smooth, round, striated, bearing three or four leaves with somewhat hairy sheaths, the upper sheath shorter than its leaf, crowned with a tuft of hairs in place of aligule. Joints smooth. Leaves linear, nar- row, smooth on the lower part, very rough towards the points. Jn- Jflorescence racemed or simple panicled. Panicle of few spikelets. Spikelets rather large, of four awnless florets, not extending beyond the calyx, erect, on smooth footstalks arising alternately on the rachis. Calyx of two nearly equal acute smooth glumes (Fig. 1), three-rib- bed. lorets of two palee (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret of an ovate form, five-ribbed, three-toothed at the summit, hairy at the base. Jnner palea broad, obtuse, furnished with two green mar- ginal ribs minutely fringed. Obs.— Triodia decumbens is distinguished from the genus Poa in * Withering’s British Plants. + Triodia decumbens, Hooker, Lindley, Koch. Festuca decumbens, Linn. Poa decwm- bens, Withering, Smith, Greyille, Hooker, Fl. Svot. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 71 the spikelets being much larger. Floret not protruding beyond the calyx. Outer palea three-toothed at the summit, and the sheaths crowned with a tuft of hairs in place of a ligule ;—whereas in Poa, the florets almost always extend beyond the calyx. Outer palea en- tire at the summit, and the sheaths crowned with a membranous ligule without hairs. This grass is not of sufficient importance to be recommended for cultivation. It is found growing on dry mountain pastures, and also on wet barren ground, sometimes at an elevation of 1000 feet above the sea. It is a common grass throughout Scotland, England, and Ireland ; also a native of Norway, Sweden, Prussia, Germany, France, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland, Italy, Turkey, and Greece. Not found in Lapland or America. Flowers in the last week in July, and ripens its seed early in Au- gust. 49. BrizA MEDIA. * Common Quaking- Grass. Specific Characters.— Spikelets broadly ovate. Ligule yery short and blunt. (Plate XXX.) Description.—It grows from twelve to eighteen inches high. The root is perennial, fibrous, tufted. Stem erect, smooth, round, and slender, bearing four leaves with smooth striated sheaths ; the upper sheath much longer than its leaf, crowned with a short obtuse ligule. Joints smooth. Leaves flat, acute, roughish on the inner surface. Jn- Jlorescence simple or compound panicled. Panicle erect, broad, of a triangular form; branches spreading, smooth, very slender, slightly wavy, round, arranged in alternate pairs on the smooth rachis. Spzke- lets broadly ovate, compressed, variegated with purple, brown and white, pendulous, on long slender footstalks ; of about seven awnless florets, protruding beyond the calyx. Calyx of two nearly equal broad obtuse glumes (Fig. 1), membranous at the margins, furnish- ed with three ribs. Florets of two paler (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret broad, obtuse, compressed, membranous at the mar- * Briza media, Linn., Smith, Hooker, Lindley, Greville, Koch, "72 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. gins, without lateral ribs, lobed at the base. Inner palea membra- nous, about equal in length to the outer palea, furnished with two green marginal ribs, delicately fringed on the upper part. This grass is best suited for poor soils, as manure or rich ground is even hurtful to it. Horses, cows, and sheep eat it, but is of little value asa pasture grass, as it grows only on such soils as are not beneficial to the growth of the more superior grasses. This is a frequent grass throughout Scotland, England, and Ire- land, especially in fields and pastures of poor soil. It is also a native of Norway, Sweden, Prussia, Germany, France, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland, Italy, Turkey, Greece, Russia, and the United States. It has not been found in Lapland, or further north than latitude 62. Its limit of altitude is about 1500 feet above the sea. Flowers in the last week of June, and ripens its seed in July. 50. H1EROCHLOE BOREALIs.* Floly-Grass. Specific Characters.—Branches of the panicle smooth. Leaves flat. (Plate XXXI.) Description.—It grows from twelve to eighteen inches high. The root is perennial, creeping. Stem erect, round, smooth, and rather stout, bearing three or four leaves with smooth striated sheaths; the upper sheath much longer than its leaf, slightly tumid, crowned with a prominent, broad, obtuse, ligule. Joints smooth, situated near the base, covered by the sheaths. Leaves short, broad, lanceolate, rough on the inner surface, smooth behind. Inflorescence compound pani- cled. Panicle erect, upper part somewhat drooping ; branches spreading, smooth, purplish, arising from the rachisin pairs. Sprhe- lets rather large, of a glossy brownish green, tinged with purple, of three awnless florets, the upper one perfect, the two lower ones barren, all concealed within the calyx. Calyx of two nearly equal broad, acute, smooth glumes (Fig. 1,) without lateral ribs. Florets. of two palea (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret five-rib- bed, somewhat hairy, roughish at the keel, fringed at the margins. * Hierochloe borealis, Smith» Hooker, Lindley. Hierochloe odorata, Koch. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 73 Inner palea rather shorter than the outer palea, entire at the summit, minutely fringed at the margins. Pedicle of the second floret slight- ly hairy. Filaments three in the barren florets, two in the perfect floret, capillary, rather longer than the floret. Anthers prominent, pendulous, notched at each end, of a bleached appearance. Ova- rium ovate, acute. Styles two, distinct. Stigmas feathery, protrud- ing beyond the palea. Scales narrow, acute. Although this is one of the earliest of our flowering grasses, it cannot be recommended with advantage to the notice of agricultu- rists, as its powerful creeping root, and its great deficiency of spring foliage, are disadvantages which are not compensated by any merits the grass possesses. This is a very rare British grass, found several years ago by the late G. Don, in the valley called Kella, Forfarshire, but has not since been discovered by any other botanist. It is a native of Lapland, Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, Italy, Kamtchatka, and Russian America. Flowers early in May, and ripens its seed in June: In Prussia, this grass is strewed before the doors of churches on festival days, and in Sweden it is sold to be suspended over beds, as it is supposed to induce sleep. 51. Poa PRATENSIS.* Smooth- Stalked Meadow- Grass. Specific Characters——F lorets webbed.t Outer palea five-ribbed. The marginal ribs hairy. Uppermost sheath much longer than its leaf. (Plate XXX.) Description.—Its usual height from a foot to fifteen inches. The root is perennial, in loose sandy soil extensively creeping. Stem erect, smooth, round, bearing three or four leaves with smooth, striat- ed sheaths ; the upper sheath much longer than its leaf, crowned * Poa pratensis, Linn. Koch, Hooker, Smith, Greville. + That is, the lowermost florets connected at their base by a web of long silky fila- ments, suspending the calyx ; which may be distinctly seen by gently detaching the ca- lyx from the florets. (See Plates XX XI. to XXXVII. Figs. 1 and 2.) 74 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. with an obtuse membranous ligule (Fig. 5.) Joints smooth. Leaves linear, flat, acute, roughish on the edges and inner surface, smooth behind towards thé base. Inflorescence panicled, spreading, erect, oc- casionally somewhat drooping ; the branches roughish, the lower ones generally in threes or fives. Spikelets ovate, slightly compressed, from three to five florets, the summit of the lower floret extending but slightly beyond the large glume of the calyx. Calyz of two nearly equal acute glumes (Fig. 1), three-ribbed, the dorsal rib toothed on the upper part; the lateral ribs of lowermost glume often wanting. Florets of two awnless palez (Fig. 2); the outer palea of lowermost floret five-ribbed ; the lower half of the dorsal and marginal ribs hairy, the intermediate ribs naked (Fig. 4); the base of the floret fur- nished with a copious web, suspending the calyx. Inner palea a very little shorter than the outer palea, occasionally bifid at the summit, furnished with two green marginal ribs, delicately fringed. The whole plant is of a light pleasant green; the spikelets frequently va- riegated with brownish purple. planiculmis. This variety has a stout, compressed stem, with short broad leaves; the upper leaf folded, compressed, with the summit rounded behind. Panicle erect; spikelets large; the lower- most branches smooth, and mostly in pairs. The whole plant is ofa dark-green. Common by road-sides. (Plate XXXII.) umbrosa, a tall, slender variety, with a somewhat droop- ing panicle; the branches rough, the lower ones generally in fives. Leaves long and narrow. The whole plant of a light pleasant green. Frequent in shady places. Often mistaken for Poa nemoralis. (Plate XXXII.) arida, a variety about a foot high, with the panicle somewhat drooping. Stem sheathed nearly to the summit, with the upper leaf passing behind the panicle. The whole plant soon as- sumes a bleached appearance. Common in dry exposed situations, (Plate XX XIII.) retroflera, a small slender variety, with the lower branches of the panicle suddenly bent downwards. Frequent in pas- tures under shady trees. Occasionally mistaken for Poa distans. (Plate XX XIII.) GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 75 muralis, a slender variety, from five to eight inches high, with a short, upright panicle. Frequent on tops of walls in shady places. (Plate XXXIV.) arenaria, a stout upright variety, with large, somewhat angular spikelets. Outer palea seven-ribbed. Inner palea fre- quently divided to the base. The whole plant somewhat of a glau- cous appearance. Frequent in sandy situations along the sea coast. (Plate XXXIV.) Many other varieties might be enumerated assuming various forms, but those already noticed will be sufficient to show, that, whatever the variety may be, whether of a most luxuriant habit, or of a small stunted growth, the specific characters always remain constant, name- ly, upper leaf much shorter than its sheath; the ligule obtuse ; florets webbed ; outer palea five-ribbed, (except in variety arenaria), with the marginal ribs hairy, so that Poa pratensis can never be confounded with any other Poa." (See Figs. 1 and 2, which represent the calyx and floret magnified; Fig. 5, the obtuse ligule.) Obs.—Poa pratensis is distinguished from Poa trivialis in the ligule being obtuse, and the marginal ribs of the outer palea hairy ;—whereas in P. ¢rivialis the liguleislongand pointed, and the marginal ribs of the outer palea are not in the slightest degree hairy.* (See Fig. 4.) From Poa nemoralis, in the upper sheath being much longer than its leaf ; ligule prominent ;—whereas in P. nemoralis the upper sheath is about equal in length to its leaf, and sometimes even shorter ; Zigule very short, scarcely perceptible. (See Plate XXXVL Fig. 5.) From Poa compressa, in the upper sheath being much longer than its leaf ; outer palea five-ribbed ;—whereas in P. compressa, the up- per sheath is about equal in length to its leaf; outer palea only three- ribbed. (See Plate XX XVII. Fig. 4.) It is distinguished from all other British grasses in the lower florets being webbed. * The roughness or smoothness of the sheaths is supposed by some authors to form a good specific character, but it cannot at all times be depended on, as in some varieties of P. pratensis the sheaths are occasionally roughish, while in P. trivialis they are some- times nearly smooth. 76 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. Poa pratensis is an early grass, producing a large quantity of herbage, which is liked by all cattle; but its creeping root is said to impoverish the soil, and is therefore not recommended for cul- tivation, the fibrous-rooted grasses being always preferred. When this grass is intended for hay, it should be cut during the time of flowering, for if allowed to remain till the seed is ripe a loss of more than one-fourth part of the whole crop is sustained. The stems are said to be used for the manufacturing of plat for straw-bonnets in imitation of Leghorn. This is a common grass in meadows, pastures, and road-sides through- out England, Ireland, and Scotland. It is alsoa native of Lapland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Prussia, Germany, France, Spain, Por- tugal, Switzerland, Italy, North Asia, Iceland, and the United States. It is sometimes found at the altitude of 3000 feet above the sea. Flowers in the first week of June, and ripens its seed in the first week of July. , 52. Poa TRIVIALIs.* Rough-stalked Meadow-Grass. Specific Characters.—F lorets webbed. Outer paleafive-ribbed. The marginal ribs not hairy. Ligule long and pointed. (Plate XX XV.) Description.—It grows from twelve to eighteen inches high. The root is perennial, creeping. Stem erect, decumbent at the base, round, and generally roughish, bearing five or six leaves with rough striated sheaths, (the roughness is only felt from below upwards; smooth on the opposite direction); the upper sheath much longer than its leaf, crowned with a long pointed ligule. Joints smooth. Leaves thin, flat, acute, rough on both surfaces. Inflorescence panicled. Panicle erect, the branches rough and spreading, the lower ones ge- nerally in threes or fives. Spikelets ovate, compressed, of two to five awnless florets, the summit of the lowermost floret extending slightly beyond the large glume of the calyx. Calyx of two nearly equal acute glumes, (Fig. 1), the upper glume three-ribbed, the lower with- out lateral ribs, the dorsal rib of both, strongly toothed. Florets of two palee (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret jfive-ribbed * Poa trivialis, Linn. Koch, Smith, Hooker, Greville, Lindley. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. vi {Fig. 4), the dorsal rib hairy on the lower half; the marginal and in- termediate ribs without hairs ; the base furnished with a delicate web suspending the calyx. Inner palea with two green marginal ribs mi- nutely fringed. parviflora. (Plate XXXV). This variety is very slen- der; the spikelets small, of one to two florets, and the stem generally smooth. Common in shady woods, and is frequently mistaken for Poa nemoralis, var. angustifolia, from which it differs in the sheaths being rough (when felt from below upwards), ligules long and point- ed, and the outer palea with the marginal ribs not hairy ;—whereas in Poa nemoralis the sheaths are smooth, the ligules very short and obtuse, and the marginal ribs of the outer palea hairy. Obs.—Poa trivialis is readily distinguished from Poa pratensis in the sheaths beg more or less rough ; dgule long and pointed, and the marginal ribs of the outer palea without hairs ;—whereas in P. pra- tensis the sheaths are mostly smooth; Zgule obtuse, and the marginal ribs of the outer palea furnished with hairs. (Plate XX XI.) From Poa nemoralis, in the sheaths being more or less rough to the touch ; ligule long and pointed; upper leaf much shorter than itssheath; outer palea with the marginal ribs not hairy ;—whereas in P. nemo- ralis the sheaths are smooth ; the ligule very short and obtuse; upper leaf about equal in length to its sheath; outer palea with the mar- ginal ribs hairy. (Plate XXXVI.) From Poa compressa in the stem being round; sheath roughish ; ligule long and pointed ; upper leaf much shorter than its sheath ; outer palea five-ribbed, the marginal ribs not hairy ;—whereas in P. compressa the stem is very much compressed ; ligule obtuse ; upper leaf about equal in length to its sheath; outer palea three- ribbed, the marginal ribs hairy. (Plate XX XVII). Poa trivialis is a most valuable grass to the agriculturist, when cul- tivated on moist rich sheltered soils, but on dry exposed situations it becomes unprofitable, and but little adapted for alternate husbandry. Mr Sinclair states, that the superior produce of this Poa over many other species, its highly nutritive qualities, the season in which it arrives at perfection, and the marked partiality which oxen, horses, and sheep have for it, are merits which distinguish it as one of the most valuable of those grasses which affect moist, rich soils, and sheltered 78 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. situations ; but on dry exposed situations it is altogether inconside- rable, yearly diminishes, and ultimately dies off, not unfrequently in the space of four or five years. Its produce is always much greater when combined with other grasses, than when cultivated by itself; with a proper admixture it will nearly double its produce, though on the same soil, so much it delights in shelter. This grass should be cut for hay during the time when in seed, as the loss sustained by taking the crop at the time of flowering exceeds one-fourth of its value. To have land covered thickly with this grass, it will require rather more than seven pounds of seed to the acre. Poa trivialis is common in moist and shady situations, and is found in every county throughout Scotland, England, and Ireland. It is also a native of Lapland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Prussia, Ger- many, France, Switzerland, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Asia, Iceland, and North America. Flowers in the third week of June, and ripens its seed in the mid- dle of July. 53. PoA NEMORALIS.* Wood Meadow-Grass. Specific Characters.—F lorets webbed. Outer palea five-ribbed. Uppermost sheath not longer than its leaf. (Plate XXXVL) Description.—It grows from eighteen inches to two feet high. The root is perennial, creeping. Stem erect, slender, scarcely smooth, com- pressed ; bearing five or six leaves with smooth striated sheaths; the upper sheath not longer than its leaf, crowned with a very short obtuse ligule. Joints about five, smooth ; the first joint about half way up the stem, not covered by the second sheath. Leaves linear, narrow, acute, flat, rough on the edges and inner surface, smooth behind on the lower half. Inflorescence compound panicled. Panicle slightly drooping, the branches roughish, slender, spreading, the lower ones in pairs, threes, or fours. Spzhelets ovate, acute, slightly compressed, of three or five awnless florets; the summit of the lowermost extend- ing slightly beyond the large glume of the calyx. Calyx of two * Poa nemoralis, Koch, Hooker, Greville, Leers. (Poa nemoralis of Smith has no web ; I know not therefore to what species it can be referred). GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 79 nearly equal acute glumes (Fig. 1), three-ribbed, the dorsal rib tooth- ed on the upper half. Florets of two palez (Fig. 2); the outer pa- lea of lowermost floret five-ribbed (Fig. 4); the lower half of the dor- sal and two marginal ribs hairy ; the intermediate ribs without hairs ; the base of the floret furnished with a silky web suspending the calyz. Inner palea a little shorter than the outer palea, furnished with two green marginal ribs, delicately fringed. The whole plant is of a light green. angustifolia, a frequent variety, with the panicle erect the leaves long and narrow ; the first joint near the panicle; the spike- lets small, of two florets ; and the ligules scarcely perceptible. (Plate XXXVI). Obs.—Poa nemoralis is distinguished from Poa trivialis in the up- per sheath not being longer than its leaf; Zgule very short and ob- tuse, and the outer palea with the marginal ribs hairy ;—whereas in P. trivialis the upper sheath is much longer than its leaf, kgule long and pointed, and the marginal ribs of the outer palea not hairy. (See Plate XXXV). From Poa pratensis, in the upper sheath not being longer than its leaf, with the ligule very short ;—whereas in P. pratensis the upper sheath is much longer than its leaf, and the ligule prominent. (See Plate From Poa montana, in the florets being webbed ; ligule very short ; second sheath not extending to the first joint ;—whereas in P. mon- tana the florets are not webbed; kigule prominent, and the secoud sheath extends beyond the first jomt. (See Plate XX XIX). From Poa polynoda in the florets being webbed ; ligule very short, scarcely perceptible ; stem but slightly compressed ;—whereas in P. polynoda the florets are not webbed; ligule rather prominent; stem very much compressed. (See Plate XX XIX). Poa nemoralis ranks amongst the superior permanent pasture gras- ses, producing aconsiderable deal of fine succulent and nutritive herbage, which horses, cows, and sheep are remarkably fond of. It will grow freely in exposed situations, but in its natural state is found only in shady places or woods of rich soil. This is by no means a frequent grass throughout Scotland, although 80 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. common in certain localities. It is frequently met within England and Ireland. It is also a native of Lapland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Prussia, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, North Asia, Iceland, and the United States. Its limit of altitude seems about 1500 feet above the sea. Flowers in the third week of June, and ripens its seed in the last week of July. 54. Poa COMPRESSA. * Flat-stalked Meadow-Grass. Specific Characters.—F lorets webbed. Outer palea three-ribbed ; the marginal ribs hairy. (Plate XXX VIL.) Description.—Its usual height is about a foot. The root is peren- nial, creeping. Stem erect, decumbent at the base; scarcely smooth ; very much compressed ; rather stout, and somewhat contracted under the panicle ; bearing four or five leaves, with smooth, striated sheaths ; the upper sheath short, about the length of its leaf, crowned with a short obtuse ligule. Joints five, smooth. Leaves rather short, flat, acute ; rough on the inner surface and edges, smooth behind. Inflorescence mostly simple panicled. Panicle somewhat unilateral, erect, spreading while flowering, close both before and afterwards; branches short and rough, generally in pairs, the lowermost rather remote. Sprhelets ovate, acute, compressed, of five to seven florets; the summit of the lower floret scarcely extending beyond the large glume of the calyx. Calyx of two nearly equal acute glumes (Fig. 1), often tinged with purple ; three-ribbed, toothed on the upper part of the central rib. Florets of two palez (Fig. 2); the outer palea of lowermost floret three-ribbed, the lower half of the dorsal and marginal ribs hairy ; the base furnished with a delicate web suspending the calyx (Fig. 4). In- ner palea with two green marginal ribs minutely fringed. The whole plant is of a darkish green. Obs.—-Poa compressa, from its very flat stem, short sheaths, three- ribbed outer palea, and webbed at the base, will readily be distinguish- ed. It is more closely allied to Poa polynoda than to any other, but differs from it in the lower florets being webbed ; outer palea three * Poa compressa, Linn., Koch, Leers, Schrad. Smith, Hooker, Lindley. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. Sl ribbed ; first joint about half-way up the stem ;—whereas in Poa polynoda the florets are perfectly free; outer palea five-ribbed; se- cond joint about half-way up the stem, and the first joint near the pa- nicle. (Plate XX XIX.) From Poa pratensis, in the upper leaf being about equal in length to its sheath; stem very much compressed, and contracted under the panicle ; outer palea only three-ribbed ;—whereas in P. pratensis the upper leaf is much shorter than its sheath; stem very seldom com- pressed ; outer palea five-ribbed. (Plate XXXI.) From Poa nemoralis, in the ligule of upper sheath being prominent; panicle somewhat rigid; outer palea only three-ribbed ;—whereas in P. nemoralis the ligule is very short, scarcely perceptible; panicle long and slender ; outer palea five-ribbed. (Plate XXXVI.) From Poa cesia, in the uppermost joint being about the centre of the stem ; florets webbed: outer palea only three-ribbed ;—whereas in P. cesia the upper joint is situated near the base of the stem ; jlorets perfectly free; outer palea five-ribbed. (Plate XL.) Were it not for the small quantity of foliage that this grass pro- duces, it would rank as one of the most valuable grasses, as it shoots its leaves early in spring, and possesses a large share of nutritive pro- perties. It grows naturally on dry poor soils, and is found in stony places and wall-tops. It is a frequent grass in Scotland, England, and Ireland, also a native of Norway, Sweden, Prussia, Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, Russia, Greenland, Iceland, and the northern parts of North America. Attains an elevation of 3000 feet above the sea. Flowers in the second week of July, and the seed is ripe about the middle of August. 55. Poa ALPINA.* Alpine Meadow-Grass. Specific Characters.—Florets not webbed. Outer palea three- ribbed. Glumes three-ribbed. Upper leaf folded, and shorter than its sheath. Rachis and branches rough, (Plate XX XVII.) * Poa alpina, Hooker, Smith, Kech, Lind. F 82 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. Description.—It grows from four inches toa foot in height. Theroot is perennial, fibrous, tufted. Stem round, smooth, erect, bearing two or three leaves with smooth striated sheaths; the upper sheath much longer than its leaf, crowned with a long pointed membranous li- gule. (Fig 5.) Second sheath seldom extending as high as the first joint. Joints two, smooth. Leaves short, mostly flat, rough on the edges and inner surface, smooth and polished behind; upper leaf folded, compressed, rounded behind the summit. Inflorescence pani- cled. Fanicle rather close, erect ; branches rough, the lower ones generally in pairs. Spikelets broadly ovate, erect, very frequently vi- viparous, (F ig. 4), (that is, the inner palea transformed into small leaves,) usually of four awnless florets; the summit of the lower flo- ret projecting beyond the calyx. Calyx of two broad, acute, equal glumes, (Fig. 1), three-ribbed, and minutely toothed on the keels. Florets not webbed ; of two palee, (Fig 2); the outer palea of lower- most three ribbed, (Fig. 3); the lower-half of the dorsal and lateral ribs furnished with silky hairs. Inner palea rather shorter than the outer palea, membranous, with two green marginal ribs minutely fringed. Obs.—Poa alpina somewhat resembles Poa laxa, but the panicle is more compact, erect; the lower branches much shorter ; the root much tufted; upper leaf folded, compressed, and rounded behind the point; spzkelets broadly ovate, approaching to cordate, and the radical leaves shorter and more obtuse :—whereas in P. laxa the pa- nicle is slender and slightly drooping ; the lower branches long ; the root not tufted ; upper leaf flat, lanceolate, and taper-pointed ; spike- lets oblong ovate, and the radical leaves linear, lanceolate. (See Plate XXX VIII.) From Poa cesia, in the upper sheath being much longer than its leaf ; Ligule long and pointed; and the outer palea three-ribbed ;— whereas in P. cesia the upper sheath is about equal in length to its leaf ; ligule obtuse; and the outer palea five-ribbed. (See Plate XL.) From Poa pratensis, in the florets not being webbed, and the &- gule long and pointed ;—whereas in P. pratensis the two lowermost florets are furnished at the base with a copious web suspending the calyx; and the ligule is rather short and obtuse. (See Plate XX XI.) Although Poa alpina is naturally confined to the alpine regions GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 83 at an elevation of between 3000 and 4000 feet above the sea, it will, when cultivated in the low-land, thrive well, but not sufficiently so as to render it an object of agricultural attention. Hares and rabbits are remarkably fond of the leaves, which they crop close to the ground, It is a very early grass, coming into flower about the third week of May, and ripens its seed about the end of June. It is found on several of the mountains in Perth, Forfar, Aber- deen, and Inverness ; and in England, in the counties of Caernarvon and York. It is also a native of Lapland, Norway, Sweden, Ger- many, France, Switzerland, Italy, Russia, Greenland, Iceland, and the northern parts of North America; but has not been found in the United States. 56. Poa LAXA. Wavy Meadow-Grass. Specific Characters—Florets not webbed. Outer palea three- ribbed. Glumes three-ribbed. Upper leaf flat and shorter than its sheath. Rachis and branches rough. (Plate XXX VIII.) Description.—It grows from six to twelve inches high. The root is perennial, fibrous, somewhat creeping. Stem round, smooth, and slender, bearing two or three leaves with smooth striated sheaths ; the upper sheath much longer than its leaf, crowned with a long acute ligule (Fig 5), generally embracing the stem; second sheath fre- quently covering the first joint. Joints two, smooth; the upper joint nearer the root than to the panicle. Leaves flat, linear, lanceolate, ta- per-pointed, flaccid, roughish on the edges and inner surface, smooth behind. Inflorescence panicled. Panicle slightly drooping, the branch- es roughish and slender, the lower ones long and generally in pairs. Spikelets oblong-ovate ; green or tinged with purple, frequently viviparous, of three awnless florets; the summit of the lowermost flo- ret projecting beyond the large glume of the calyx. Calyx of two nearly equal acute glumes (Fig. 1), membranous at the mar- gins; the inner glume three-ribbed; the outer without lateral ribs. Florets not webbed ; of two palez (Fig. 2); the outer palea of lower- most floret three-ribbed (Fig. 3), the lower half of the ribs hairy, the * Poa laxa, Henk. Koch. 84 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. lateral ribs situated near the margins. nner palea membranous, ra- ther shorter than the outer palea, furnished with two green marginal ribs delicately fringed. flexuosa, a variety most frequently viviparous. The branches of the panicle wavy, and the leaves mostly short. (Plate XXX VIII.) Obs.—Poa laxa is distinguished from Poa alpina, in the panicle being more slender and somewhat drooping ; the root not tufted ; upper leaf flat and taper-pointed; and the spzkelets oblong ovate ;— whereas in P. alpina the panicle is compact, erect ; root much tuft- ed ; upper leaf folded, compressed, and rounded behind the point 5. and the spéhkelets broadly ovate. (See Plate XXX VIL) From Poa montana, in the upper sheath being much longer than its leaf, and the Zigule long and pointed ;—whereas in P. montana the upper sheath is shorter than its leaf, and the Zigule is rather short and obtuse. (See Plate XX XIX.) From Poa annua, in the branches of the panicle being rough, and the outer palea three-ribbed ;—whereas in P. annua the branches are smooth and the outer palea five-ribbed. (See Plate XL.) From Poa nemoralis, in the upper sheath being much longer than its leaf; ligule long and pointed, and the florets not webbed ;—where- as in P. nemoralis the upper sheath is not longer than its leaf; h- gule very short and obtuse, and the lower florets are distinctly webbed, suspending the calyx. (See Plate XXXVL.) Poa laxa is a very rare British grass, found on Ben-Nevis, Inver- ness-shire, about 4300 feet above the sea. It is also a native of Lap- land, Germany, Switzerland, Spitzbergen ? and Greenland ? Flowers in the last week of May, and ripens its seed about the end of June. 57. PoA POLYNODA.* Silicious Meadow- Grass. Specific Characters.—Florets not webbed. Upper sheath not longer than its leaf. Upper joint above the centre of the stem. * Poa polynoda, Parnell. This grass is new to the British Flora, and does not appear to have been noticed by continental authors. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. S5 Second sheath not reaching to the first joint. Outer palea five-rib- ed. Glumes acute, three-ribbed. (Plate XX XIX.) Description.—It grows from twelve to eighteen inches high. The root is perennial, creeping. Stem ascending, procumbent at the base, compressed, scarcely smooth, bearing six or seven leayes, with short smooth striated sheaths ; the upper sheath about equal in length to its leaf, situated far up the stem, crowned witha short, obtuse ligule (Fig 5); second sheath not reaching to the first joint. Joints six or seven, smooth; the uppermost joint near the panicle. Leaves mostly all on the stem, short, flat, acute, roughish on the edges and inner surface, smooth behind. Inflorescence panicled, erect, of an ovate-lanceolate form, with short rough branches, arranged on the rachis mostly in pairs. Spikelets small, ovate, of four or five awnless florets ; the sum- mit of the lowermost floret not extending beyond the large glume of the calyx. Calyx of two acute nearly equal glumes (Fig. 1), three- ribbed, the dorsal rib minutely toothed on the upper half. Florets not webbed ; of two palez (Fig. 2); the outer palea of lowermost floret JSive-ribbed (Fig. 4); the lower half of the dorsal and marginal ribs but slightly hairy ; the intermediate ribs naked and rather indistinct. Inner palea rather shorter than the outer palea, with two green marginal ribs delicately fringed. The whole plant is somewhat glaucous. Obs.—Poa polynoda differs from Poa cesia, in the stem bearing six or more joints ; the upper joint near the panicle ; second sheath not reaching to the first joint, and the summit of the lowermost fioret not extending beyond the large glume of the calyx ;—whereas in P. cesia the stem bears but two joints; the uppermost joint situated near the base, leaving two-thirds of the stem naked ; second sheath cover- ing the first joint, and the summit of the lower floret projecting be- yond the large glume of the calyx.. (See Plate XL.) From montana, in panicle being short and rigid ; upper joiné of the stem near the panicles swmmit of the lower floret extending beyond the large glume of the calyx ;—whereas in P. montana the panicle is long and slender; upper joint situated about the centre of the stem ; summit of the lower floret not projecting beyond the calyx. (See Plate XX XIX.) From Poa compressa, in the florets not being webbed, and the outer palea five-ribbed ;—whereas in P. compressa the lower florets are dis- 86 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. tinctly webbed, suspending the calyx, and the outer palea three-ribbed. (See Plate XXX VIL.) From Poa nemoralis, in the florets not being webbed, and the pa- nicle short and rigid ;—whereas in P. nemoralis the lower florets are distinctly webbed, suspending the calyx, and the panicle is long and slender. (See Plate XXXVI.) From Poa pratensis, in the florets not being webbed, and the upper sheath about equal in length to its leaf;—whereas in P. pratensis the lower florets are copiously webbed, and the upper sheath much longer than its leaf. (See Plate XX XI.) It would be unprofitable to apply this grass to any agricultural purpose, as no description of cattle seems to eat it, the leaves being always found entire, while the surrounding foliage of other grasses: are cropped close to the ground. This probably is owing to the large quantity of silicious matter contained in the sheaths and stems, which is considerably more than that usually found in other grasses, ren- dering the herbage hard and disagreeable to the mouths of cattle. When dry, it might form a substitute for fine sand-paper, and prove valuable to turners for polishing wood. The minute granular sur- face can be very perceptibly though disagreeably felt by drawing the stem through the teeth. It commences to flower in the last week of June, and ripens its seed about the third week of July. The only localities as yet known for this grass are near Edinburgh, where it is occasionally found growing in small patches on rather dry stony soil. Specimens are under cultivation in the Botanic Garden of Edin- burgh, 58. Poa MONTANA.* Mountain Meadow-Grass. Specific Characters.—Florets not webbed. Upper sheath not longer than its leaf. Second sheath extending beyond the first joint. Upper joint about the centre of the stem. Outer palea five-ribbed. Glumes acute, three-ribbed. (Plate XXXIX.) Description.—It grows from twelve to eighteen inches high. The * Poa nemoralis montana, Koch. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 87 root is perennial, extensively creeping, throwing out stems from the lower joints. Stem erect, procumbent at the base, compressed, slight- ly roughish, bearing four or five leaves with somewhat roughish sheaths ; the upper sheath rather shorter than its leaf, crowned with a conspicuous obtuse ligule (Fig. 5); second sheath extending beyond the Jirst joint. Joints four, smooth, the upper joint about half-way up the stem. Leaves mostly all on the stem, flat, linear-lanceolate, taper- pointed, roughish on the edges and both surfaces, but more so on the inner surface; the lower leaves mostly withered. Inflorescence ra- cemed or panicled. Panicle erect, close, slender; the branches rough, long, and slender, the lower ones single or in pairs. Spzkelets few, erect, lanceolate-ovate, of two or three awnless florets; the sum- mit of the lowermost floret not projecting beyond the large glume of the calyx. Calyx of two unequal acute glumes (Fig. 1), three-rib- bed, dorsal rib minutely toothed on the upper part. Florets not web- bed; of two palee (Fig. 2); the outer palea of lowermost floret jive- ribbed (Fig. 4); the lower half of the dorsal and marginal ribs hairy, the intermediate ribs not hairy and rather indistinct. Inner palea about one-fourth shorter than the outer palea, membranous, with two green marginal ribs minutely fringed. The whole plant glau- cous. Obs.—Poa montana is closely allied to Poa polynoda, but differs from it in the panicle being long and slender. The dorsal rib of outer palea much more hairy, and the second sheath extending beyond the first joint ;—whereas in P. polynoda the panicle is short and contract- ed ; the dorsal rib of outer palea but slightly hairy, and the second sheath not extending to the first joint. (See Plate XX XIX.) From Poa cesia, (independent of the form of the panicle), in the upper joint being situated about the centre of the stem; the root ex- tensively creeping, and the summit of the lower floret not protruding beyond the large glume ;—whereas in P. cesia the upper joint is very near the base; the root is fibrous and not creeping, and the summit of the lower floret protrudes beyond the calyx. (See Plate XL.) From Poa nemoralis, in the florets not being webbed; the ligules very conspicuous ; the second sheath extending beyond the first joint ; —whereas in P. nemoralis the lower florets are distinctly webbed, sus- 88 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. pending the calyx; the ligules scarcely perceptible, and the second sheath not reaching to the first joint. (See Plate XXXVI.) This grass proves to be an addition to the British Flora; first dis- covered by Dr Greville, who gathered several dozen specimensin 1835, on Ben-Lawers, Perthshire, at an elevation of about 3600 feet above the sea. As this is such a well-marked species, there is no difficulty in dis- tinguishing it from the other Poas, and seems undoubtedly to be the Poa nemoralis montana of Koch, who describes it in his Synopsis Flore Germaniz et Helvetica, in the following words: “ Culmi graciles, panicula rara, spiculis magnis 3-5 floris parce obsita ; rami panicule 1-3 spiculas gerentes, spicule tenuiter et longe pedicellate. Varietas insignis.” Flowers in J uly. Its agricultural merits are not known. 59. Poa cz#sta.* Glaucous Meadow- Grass. Specific Character.—F lorets not webbed. Uppermost joint near the base of the stem. Branches of the panicle rough. Glumes near- ly equal, acute, the inner glume three-ribbed. Outer palea five- ribbed. (Plate XL.) Description.—It grows from six to twelve inches high. The root is perennial, fibrous, woolly. Stem erect, flattish, slightly roughish towards the upper part, bearing two or three leaves with short smooth striated sheaths; upper sheath about equal in length to its leaf, re- mote from the panicle, leaving two-thirds of the stem naked ; crowned with a distinct obtuse ligule, (Fig. 5); second sheath extending beyond the first joint. Joints two, very remote from the panicle. Leaves short, flat, acute, roughish on the inner surface and margins, smooth behind. Inflorescence panicled. Panicle erect, rather small, the branches rough, the lower ones in pairs. Spikelets ovate, of three or four awn- less florets; the summit of the lower floret extending beyond the large glume of the calyx. Calyx of two broad acute nearly equal glumes, (Fig. 1), three-ribbed, the middle rib minutely toothed on the upper part. Florets not webbed ; of two palee (Fig. 2); the outer * Poa cesia, Koch. Poa glauca, Smith, 3 : GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 89 palea of lowermost floret jive-ribbed (Fig. 4); the lower half of the dorsal as well as the marginal ribs hairy; the intermediate ribs naked and rather indistinct. Inner palea nearly as long as the outer palea, with two green marginal ribs minutely fringed. The whole plant is more or less glaucous. Obs.—Poa cesia somewhat resembles Poa alpina, but differs from it in the upper sheath being about equal in length to itsleaf. Ligule obtuse, and the outer palea five-ribbed ;—whereas in P. alpina the upper sheath is much longer than its leaf. Ligule long and pointed, and the outer palea three-ribbed. (See Plate XXX VIL) From Poa polynoda, in the stem bearing but two joints; upper- most joint situated near the root, leaving two-thirds of the stem nak- ed; second sheath covering the first joint, and the lowermost floret projecting beyond the large glume of the calyx ;—whereas in P. poly- noda the stem has six or more joints ; upper joint near the panicle; the second sheath not reaching to the first jomt; and the summit of lower- most floret not projecting beyond the calyx. (See Plate XX XIX.) From Poa lara, in the upper sheath being about equal in length to its leaf; ligule obtuse ; and the outer palea five-ribbed ;—whereas in P. laxa the upper sheath is much longer than its leaf: ligule long and pointed ; and the outer palea three-ribbed. (See Plate XX XVIIL) From Poa montana, in the uppermost joint being situated near the base of the stem ; root fibrous, and the summit of the lower floret pro- jecting beyond the large glume of the calyx ;—whereas in P. montana the upper joint is situated about the centre of the stem; the root is extensively creeping ; and the summit of the lower floret does not pro- ject beyond the calyx. (See Plate XX XIX.) Among the Poas which are webbed, Poa cesia is distinguished from Poa nemoralis, in the florets not being webbed ; upper joint being near the base of the stem; and the second sheath extending beyond the first jomt ;—whereas in P. nemoralis the lowermost florets are dis- tinctly webbed, suspending the calyx ; uppermost joint placed about the centre of the stem; and the second sheath does not extend to the first joint. (See Plate XXXVI.) From Poa compressa, in the florets not being webbed, and the outer palea five-ribbed ;—whereas in P. compressa the lower florets are 90 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. distinctly webbed, suspending the calyx, and the outer palea three- ribbed. (See Plate XX XVII.) From Poa pratensis, in the florets not being webbed, and the upper sheath about equal in length to its leaf ;—whereas in P. pratensis the lower florets are distinctly webbed, suspending the calyx ; and the up- per sheath much longer than its leaf. (See Plate XX XI.) This isa rare grass, found on Ben-Lawers and the Clova mountains ; is also a native of Switzerland and the Arctic regions. It possesses no particular merits worthy the notice of agriculturists. Flowers in the third week of June, and ripens its seed about the end of July. 60. Poa ANNUA.* Annual Meadow- Grass. Specific Characters.—¥ lorets not webbed. Outer palea five-ribbed. Leaves smooth on both surfaces. Rachis and branches smooth. (Plate XL.) Description.—It grows from five to fifteen inches high. The root is perennial, somewhat creeping, throwing out fibres at the lower joints. Stem ascending, often procumbent at the base, flattish, smooth, bearing four or five leaves, with smooth com- pressed sheaths ; the upper sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with a thin membranous somewhat acute ligule. Joints about four, smooth. Leaves of a light-green, sword-shape, flat and flaccid, fre- quently crumpled at the margins, smooth on both surfaces, rough at the edges. Inflorescence compound panicled. Panicle erect, in its outline of a triangular form, spreading, the branches smooth, mostly in pairs, inclining to one side, leaving the smooth rachis visible its whole length behind. Spikelets ovate-oblong, usually of five to eight awnless florets, frequently variegated with green, white, and purple ; the summit of the lowermost floret extending beyond the large glume of the calyx. Calyx of two unequal acute glumes (Fig. 1), three- ribbed, the dorsal rib minutely toothed on the upper part. Florets not webbed, of two palex, (Fig. 2); the outer palea of lowermost floret * Poa annua, Linn, Smith, Hooker, Greville, Koch. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. gl Jfivce-ribbed, all the ribs smooth, without hairs, except the lower half of the dorsal rib, which is furnished with a few delicate silky hairs (Fig. 4). Inner palea rather shorter than the outer palea, membra- nous, with two green marginal ribs delicately fringed. Filaments three, capillary. -Anthers short, pendulous, notched at each end. Styles two, distinct, short, naked. Stigmas prominent, feathery. Ovarium ovate, glossy, somewhat wrinkled. Scales membranous, broad, acute. (Fig. 5.) Obs.—This grass in its external aspect is very similar to some va- rieties of Poa pratensis, but is readily distinguished in the florets not being webbed, and the outer palea with no hairs on the lateral ribs ; —whereas in P. pratensis the lower florets are distinctly webbed, and the marginal ribs of the outer palea are furnished with hairs. (See Plate XXXL) From Poa lara and Poa alpina in the branches of the panicle being smooth, and the outer palea distinctly five-ribbed ;—whereas in P. lazxa and P. alpina the branches are rough, and the outer palea only three-ribbed. (See Plates XX XVII. and XXXVIIL) serica, a common variety, with plain short leaves. Li- gule prominent, very thin and obtuse. Spikelets usually of three florets. The two lateral ribs on each side of the outer palea covered with wifite silky pubescence ; in other respects the same as P.annua. Fre- quent on moist marshy soil. (Plate XLI.) Poa annua, one of the commonest of all our grasses, flowering throughout the whole summer, growing on any kind of soil, in every si- tuation from the low wet meadow to the dry mountain top, at an eleva- tion of between 3000 and 4000 feet above the sea. It produces an early herbage, which cattle are fond of, especially cows, but its being an annual, and often destroyed by a continuance of dry weather, ren- der it unprofitable to the farmer for cultivation. It is a common grass throughout Britain, also a native of Lapland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, France, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland, Italy, North Africa, North and South America, and North Asia. 92 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 61. Poa pIsTANs.* Reflered Meadow-Grass. Specific Characters.—F lorets not webbed. Rachis and branches rough. Spikelets linear. Glumes three-ribbed. Outer palea ob- tuse, five-ribbed. Upper sheath longer than its leaf. (Plate XLI.) Description.—It grows from twelve to eighteen inches high. The root is perennial, fibrous. Stem erect, round, smooth, frequently de- cumbent at the base ; bearing four leaves with smooth striated sheaths ; the upper sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with an obtuse ligule ; second sheath most frequently reaching beyond the first joint. Joints three, smooth. Leaves mostly flat, acute, very seldom folded, rough- ish on the inner surface, smooth behind. Inflorescence compound pa- nicled. Panicle erect, with slender rough branches arranged on the rachis, at certain distances, in pairs, threes, or fives: the lower bran- ches ultimately becoming rigidly bent downwards, assuming a very striking appearance. In the early stage of growth the branches are erect and close. Spzkelets linear (Fig. 3); when young, somewhat elliptical, usually of five obtuse florets; the summit of the lowermost floret extending considerably beyond the larger glume of the calyx. Calyx of two unequal membranous obtuse glumes, (Fig. 1,) three- ribbed ; the outer glume rather more than half the length of the inner one. Florets not webbed; of two palee, (Fig. 2); the outer palea of lower- most floret jfive-ribbed, the middle rib not extending to the summit, (Fig. 4); smooth and slightly hairy at the base; lateral ribs naked. Inner palea about equal in length to the outer palea, with two mar- ginal ribs delicately fringed. Obs.— Poa distans is closely allied to Poa maritima, but differs from it in the spzkelets being smaller, and the rachis and branches rough to the touch ;—whereas in P. maritima the rachis and bran- ches are quite smooth to the touch. (See Plate XLII.) From Poa procumbens, in the branches of the panicle spreading, the lower ones ultimately becoming deflexed and scarcely unilateral. The ribs of the glumes not prominent, and the dorsal rib of the outer * Poa distams, Linn., Hooker. Glyceria distans, Smith, Koch. Festuca distans, Kunth. Poa retroflexa, Curtis. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 93 palea not reaching to the summit ;—whereas in P. procumbens the pa- nicle is more or less close; the branches never deflexed; unilate- ral, leaving the rachis behind perfectly bare. The ribs of the glumes very prominent, and the dorsal rib of the outer palea extending slightly beyond the summit. (See Plate XLIL) From Poa trivialis,in the sheaths being smooth to the touch ; ligule obtuse ; spikelets linear ; florets not webbed ;—whereas in P. trivialis the sheaths are roughish tothe touch ; figule long and point- ed ; sprkelets ovate ; florets distinctly webbed. (See Plate XX XV. Figs. 1 and 2.) From Poa pratensis, in the sptkelets being linear ; florets not webbed ; glumes obtuse and smooth on the keels ;—whereas in P. pratensis the spikelets are ovate; florets copiously webbed; glumes acute and minutely toothed on the upper part of the keels. From Poa annua, in the inner surface of the leaves and the bran- ches of the panicle being very rough to the touch ;—whereas in P. an- nua the inner surface of the leaves and the branches of the panicle are perfectly smooth to the touch. Poa distans is said to rank among the most inferior of the British grasses for agricultural purposes, and is therefore not to be recom- mended. Itis a rare grass in Scotland, found in Forfar and North Queensferry ; but in England it is more frequently met with in the counties of Northumberland, Durham, York, Notts, Flints, Den- bigh, Worcester, Beds, Cambridge, Kent, Sussex, Somerset, and De- von; also a native of Norway, Sweden, Prussia, Germany, Switzer- land, France, and Italy. Not found in America. Flowers in the first week of July, and ripens its seed in the early part of August. 62. Poa MARITIMA. * Creeping Sea Meadow-Grass. Specific Characters.—F lorets not webbed. Upper sheath longer than its leaf. Spikelets linear. Outer palea five-ribbed. Glumes * Poa maritima, Linn., Hooker, Greville. Glyceria maritima, Smith, Koch. Festuca thalassia, Kunth. OA GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. three-ribbed. Branches and rachis smooth to the touch. Leaves rough on the inner surface. (Plate XLII.) Description.—It grows from six to twelve inches high. The root is perennial, creeping. Stem erect, round and smooth, decumbent at the base; bearing three or four leaves with smooth tumid sheaths ; the upper sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with an obtuse decur- rent ligule; second sheath most frequently reaching beyond the first joint. Joints four, smooth. Leaves mostly folded and compressed, very seldom flat, roughish on the inner surface, smooth behind. Jn- Slorescence mostly simple panicled, seldom compound. Panicle erect, close, spreading whilst in flower, unilateral, leaving the rachis be- hind bare; branches smooth to the touch, arranged on the rachis in pairs, threes, or fives; the lower branches never deflexed. Spikelets linear (Fig. 3), of six to ten florets; the summit of the lowermost floret extending considerably beyond the large glume of the calyx. Calyx of two unequal membranous glumes (Fig. 1), three-ribbed ; the outer glume rather more than half the length of the inner one. Florets not webbed, of two palee (Fig 2); the outer palea of lower- most floret terminating in an acute point ; five-ribbed (Fig 4), smooth above, and slightly hairy at the base. Inner palea about equal in length to the outer palea, with two green marginal ribs delicately fringed. Obs.—Poa maritima is very likely to be confounded with some va- rieties of Poa distans, especially those in which the branches are not deflexed ; it is, however, distinguished by the rachis and branches be- ing smooth to the touch. The root creeping. Central rib of the outer palea extending to the very summit, giving an acute appearance to the palea. Leaves almost always fulded and scarcely ever flat ;— whereas in P. distans the rachis and branches are rough ; the root fi- brous; central rib of the outer palea not extending to the summit, leaving the upper membranous part obtuse ; Jeaves almost always flat, and scarcely ever folded. (See Plate XLL) From Poa procumbens, in the root being creeping ; rachis and branches smooth to the touch; Jeaves narrow and almost always folded ; ribs of the glumes distinct but not prominent ;. central rib of the outer palea not extending beyond the summit ;—whereas in P. procumbens the root is fibrous ; rachis and branches rough ; leaves 4 GRASSES OF SCOTI.AND. 95 broad and almost invariably flat ; ribs of the glumes very prominent, and the cenfral rib of the palea extending slightly beyond the sum- mit. (See Plate X LI.) Poa maritima grows naturally near the sea, especially in salt marsh- es. It occurs in many places along the coasts of Scotland and Ire- land. In England it is found on the coasts of Northumberland, Durham, Anglesea, Glo’ster, Norfolk, Kent, Sussex, Somerset, and Devon ; also a native of Lapland, Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, Italy, Iceland, and North America. Flowers in the first week of July, and ripens its seed early in Au- gust. 63. Poa PROCUMBENS. * Procumbent Sea Meadow-Grass. Specific Characters.—F lorets not webbed. Glume with three very prominent ribs. Outer palea five-ribbed, the middle rib extending beyond the summit. Rachis and branches rough to the touch. Up- per sheath longer than its leaf. (See Plate X LIL). Description.—It grows from three to fifteen inches long. The root is annual. Stem more or less prostrate, round, smooth, and polished ; bearing three leaves with smooth striated sheaths; the upper sheath much longer than its leaf, situated near the panicle, crowned with an oblong membranous ligule ; second sheath extending beyond the first joint. Joints three, smooth. Leaves flat, ribbed, rough on the inner surface, smooth behind at the base, sharp at the points. Inflorescence simple or compound panicled. Panicle mostly close, of a lanceolate form, unilateral, leaving the rachis behind perfectly bare ; the branches rough, slightly spreading while in flower, but never deflexed. Spike- tets linear (Fig. 3), generally of five florets, the summit of the lower- most floret extending considerably beyond the large glume of the ca- lyx. Calyx of two unequal membranous obtuse glumes (Fig. 1), with three prominent ribs, the large glume occasionally with a short addi- tional rib. Florets of two pale (Fig. 2); the outer palea of lower- most floret five-ribbed, slightly hairy at the base; the middle rib ex- * Poa procumbens, Curtis, Hooker. Glyceria procumbens, Smith. Sclerochloa procum- bens, Lindley. 96 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. tending very slightly beyond the summit of the palea, (Fig. 4.) Inner palea rather shorter than the outer palea, with two green marginal ribs delicately fringed. Styles very short. Stigmas branched. The whole plant is more or less glaucous. Obs.—Poa procumbens differs from Poa maritima, in the root being annual and fibrous; rachis and branches rough to the touch ; leaves broad and almost invariably flat ; ribs of the glumes very prominent ; and the central rib of the outer palea extending slightly beyond the summit; whereas in P. maritima the root is creeping and perennial ; rachis and branches smooth to the touch; /eaves narrow and almost always folded; ribs of the glumes distinct but not prominent; and the central rib of the outer palea not extending beyond the summit. (Plate XLII.) : From Poa distans, in the panicle being close ; branches unilateral, leaving the rachis behind perfectly bare; never deflexed; ribs of the glumes very prominent, and the dorsal rib of the outer palea ex- tending slightly beyond the summit ;—whereas in P. distans the panicle is spreading, the lower branches ultimately becoming defiexed ; ribs of the glumes distinct but not prominent; and the dorsal rib of the outer palea not reaching to the summit. (Plate XLL) From Poa rigida and Poa loliacea, in the glumes being obtuse and having distinct lateral ribs ;—whereas in P. rigida and P. loliacea the glumes are acute and without lateral ribs. (Plate XLII.) Poa procumbens is found growing in waste ground near the sea. Seldom met with either in Scotland or Ireland ; more common in England, in Durham, York, Glo’ster, Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Sus- sex, Dorset, and Devon ; alsoa native of Germany and France. Not found in Lapland or America. _ Flowers in the second week of July, and ripens its seed in the middle of August. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 97 64. Poa RIGIDA. * Hard Meadow-Grass. Specific Characters.—F lorets not webbed. Summit of the upper glume on a level with the base of the third floret. Glumes without lateral ribs. (Plate XLIIL) Description.—It grows from three to five inches high. The root is annual, fibrous, woolly. Stem mostly erect, the lower part decum- bent, smooth, round, and finely striated, bearing four or five leaves with smooth striated sheaths; the upper sheath shorter than its leaf, crowned with a long pointed ligule. Jonts three or four, smooth. Leaves linear, narrow, taper-pointed, involute, roughish on the upper part, smooth below. Inflorescence simple panicled. Panicle erect, rigid, of a lanceolate form, with very short, roughish, rigid, unilate- ral branches, leaving the rachis behind perfectly bare. Spikelets i- near, compressed, usually of seven florets (Fig. 3), the summit of the lower floret extending but slightly beyond the large glume of the ca- lyx. Calyx of two acute unequal glumes (Fig. 1), without lateral ribs, Florets of two palee (Fig. 2); the outer palea of lowermost floret Jive-ribbed ; the marginal ribs broad, with a white line down the cen- tre; the intermediate ribs scarcely perceptible; the dorsal rib tooth- ed on the upper part, and protruding slightly beyond the summit of the palea (Fig, 4). Inner palea rather shorter than the outer, with two green marginal ribs but slightly fringed on the upper part. Obs.— Poa rigida, on account of its small size and rigid appear- ance, can only be mistaken for Poa loliacea, and on some occasions these two species so very much resemble each other, that they can scarcely be distinguished by any constant character. The only cha- racter that I have been able to discover by which they can at all times be distinguished from one another is derived from the spikelet, that is, in Poa rigida the summit of the upper glume is on a level with the base of the third floret ;—-whereas in Poa loliacea it is on a level with the base of the fourth floret. This character, however trivial it may appear, will be found constant. * Poa rigida, Linn., Hooker, Greville. Glyceria rigida, Smith. Sclerochloa rigida, Link, Lindley. Festuca rigida, Kunth., Koch. 98 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. Poa rigida being so diminutive a plant, it would be unprofita- ble to apply it to any agricultural purpose. Hares and rabbits, it is said, are fond of the leaves. It grows on walls, rocks, and dry barren soils. Frequent on the coast of Fife, and in the neighbourhood of Edinburgh, especially on Arthur’s Seat and Salisbury Craigs. Not uncommon in England and Ireland; also a native of Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, and North Africa. Not found in America, or further north than altitude 59°. Its limit of altitude is about 500 feet above the sea. Flowers in the second week of July, and ripens its seed in the mid- dle of August. 65. Poa LOLIACEA. * Spiked Meadow-Grass. Specific Characters.—Florets not webbed. Summit of the upper glume on a level with the base of the fourth floret. Glumes without lateral ribs. (Plate XLITII). Description.—It grows from two to five inches high. The root is annual, fibrous. Stem ascending, slightly curved, stout, smooth, and striated ; bearing three or four, leaves with smooth striated sheaths ; the upper sheath about equal in length to its leaf, crowned with an obtuse ragged ligule; the lower sheaths shorter than their leaves. Joints two or three, smooth. Leaves linear, smooth, convolute when dry. Inflorescence mostly racemed, approaching to a spike. Raceme erect or with a gentle curve. Spikelets of an oblong-ovate, on very short and stout footstalks, arranged alternately on each side of the rough rachis, all directed to one side, nearly covering the rachis in front, and leaving it completely bare behind ; of from eight to twelve florets; the summit of the lowermost floret scarcely extending beyond the large glume of the calyx. Calyx of two somewhat acute glumes, (Fig. 1), nearly equal, without lateral ribs ; the dorsal rib strongly marked. Florets of two palez (Fig. 2); the outer palea of lower- most floret five-ribbed ; the marginal ribs broad, with a white line down the centre; the intermediate ribs scarcely perceptible ; the dorsal rib * Poa loliacea, Huds, Koch, Tritiewm loliaceum, Hooker, Smith. Catopodium lo- liacewm, Lindley. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. ag toothed on the upper part, and protruding slightly beyond the summit of the palea (Fig. 4). Inner palea about equal in length to the outer palea, with two green marginal ribs minutely toothed. Obs.—Poa loliacea, from its great similarity in structure and ha- bit to Poa rigida, is on some occasions with difficulty distinguished “from it, particularly when the panicle of the former becomes branched, which is sometimes the case. The most constant character, although rather minute, is in the summit of the upper glume in Poa loliacea reaching to the base of the fourth floret ;—whereas in Poa rigida it reaches only to the base of the third floret. This grass is of no agricultural utility. Grows in small tufts along the sea-coast on rocks and hard sandy soils. Frequent on the coast of Fife; occasionally met with in Ireland; more frequent in Eng- land, m the counties of Northumberland, Durham, Cumberland, Lan- cashire, York, Flints, Anglesea, Glamorgan, Cambridge, Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Kent, Sussex, Hants, Dorset, Somterset, Devon, and Cornwall ; also a native of France, Germany, Portugal, Spain, and Italy. Not found in America, or further north than latitude 59°. Flowers in the second week of July, and ripens its seed in the mid- dle of August. 66. Poa sYLVATIca.* Wood Reed Meadow-Grass. Specific Characters.—Florets not webbed. Outer palea three-rib- bed, rough; the dorsal rib serrated its whole length. (Plate XLIV.) Description.—It grows from two to three feet high. The root is perennial, creeping, tufted. Stem round, erect, and slender, slight- ly roughish to the touch, bearing three or four leaves, with rough striated sheaths; the upper sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with a prominent obtuse membranous ligule; lower sheaths shorter than their leaves ; the radical extremity of the stem imbricated with large, broad, acute scales, of a brownish colour, more or less polished, (Fig. 6.) Joints four, smooth; the two uppermost naked. Leaves * Poa sylvatica, Pollich. Festuca calamaria, Smith, Hooker. Schedonorus sylvaticus, Lindley. 106 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. broad, acute, flat, polished, of a light-green, ribbed, and roughish on both surfaces; the upper leaf smaller than those below. Jn- florescence compound panicled. Panicle slightly drooping on the upper part, leaning mostly to one side, spreading while in flower ; the branches slender, roughish upwards ; arising from the rachis in pairs. Sptkelets numerous, small in comparison with the size of the plant; of three awnless florets; becoming very deciduous when in seed. Calyx of two unequal, narrow, acute, membra- nous glumes (Fig. 1,) without lateral ribs; a little apart at the base, and never overlapping. Florets of two pale (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret rough, acute, three-ribbed, the dorsal rib ser- rated the whole length, the lowermost serrations the most prominent. Inner palea roughish, about equal in length to the outer palea, mem- branous, and minutely fringed at the margins. Pedicle of the second floret rough. Obs.—Poa sylvatica is distinguished from the genus Festuca (in which genus it is placed in Hooker’s British Flora,) in the radical leaves being much broader than the upper leaf of the stem ; Lgule prominent ; outer palea acute but membranous at the summit ;— whereas in Festuca the radical leaves are never broader than those of the stem, and almost always much narrower ; ligule exceedingly short; outer palea more or less awned at the summit. It is distinguished from Bucetum pratense in the ligule being pro- minent ; deaves roughish on both surfaces; spikelets of only three florets; dorsal rib of outer palea rough its whole length ;—whereas in B. pratense the ligule is exceedingly short; leaves perfectly smooth on the under surface ; spikelets of not less than five florets; dorsal rib of outer palea perfectly smooth its whole length. (Plate XLVI.) From Poa pratensis, Poa trivialis, and Poa nemoralis, in the glumes being narrow, without lateral ribs; dase of florets perfectly free of hairs; outer palea only three-ribbed—instead of the glumes being rather broad and three-ribbed ; florets distinctly webbed ; outer palea five-ribbed. Poa sylvatica, from its broad tender leaves, which are produced in great abundance, and being much sought after by cows and horses, render this grass worthy of agricultural attention. It grows in damp GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 101 shady woods of rich soils, and is of rather rare occurrence. Found in Kinross, Dumbarton, Perth, and Roslin wood ; occasionally in Ireland. In England, in the counties of Westmoreland, Worcester, and Sussex ; also a native of France and Germany. Not found in America. Its limit of altitude is about 700 feet above the sea. Flowers in the second week of July. 67. Poa AQUATICA.* Reed Meadow-Grass. Specific Characters.—F lorets not webbed. Spikelets ovate. Outer palea seven-ribbed. (Plate XLIV.) Description.—It grows from three to six feet high. The root is pe- rennial, creeping. Stem erect, stout, smooth, striated, a little com- pressed ; bearing seven or eight leaves with slightly roughish sheaths ; the upper sheath longer than its leaf, crowned witha short obtuse ligule. Joints about seven, smooth. Leaves long, broad, and flat, terminating in a rough point; the inner surface smooth; the margins rough; the central rib on the under surface, which is also rough, extends down the sheath. Inflorescence compound panicled. Panicle erect, large ; the branches rough, arranged alternately on the rachis in half whorls. Spikelets numerous, of four to eight florets, erect, of a brownish tinge ; the upper ones large and ovate, the lower ones smaller and more linear. Calyx of two unequal membranous obtuse glumes (Fig. 1,) without lateral ribs. Florets not webbed, of two awnless pa- lee (Fig. 2); the outer palea of lowermost floret seven-ribbed, the dor- sal rib extending to the very summit, minutely toothed the whole length ; the lateral ribs more or less rough, but without hairs. Inner palea rather shorter than the outer, bifid, furnished with two green mar- ginal ribs minutely fringed on the upper half. Stgmas compound, feathery. Styles a little distant, longer than the stigmas. Poa aquatica, from its large size and broad leaves, cannot be mis- taken for any of the other Poas ; and if we pay attention to the form of the awnless spikelets, I cannot see with what Scottish grass it can be confounded. * Poa aquatica, Linn. Hooker, Greville. Glyceria aquatica, Smith. Hydrochloa aquar tica, Lindley. 102 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. It differs from Catabrosa aquatica, with which it has occasionally been confounded, in the branches of the panicle being rough to the touch ; spikelets of four to eight florets ;—whereas in C. aquatica the branches are perfectly smooth, and the spikelets never contain more than two florets, independent of many other characters. Mr Sinclair informs us that this grass contains more nutritive matter at the time of flowering than at the time the seed is ripe, in the proportion of 19 to 17; and that it contains a greater proportion of sugar than exists in any of the superior pasture grasses. It grows naturally in wet places on the banks of rivers, streams, and margins of ponds, and is recommended for cultivation in those low flat situa- tions which do not admit of being sufficiently drained. On the banks and little islands of the Thames, where this grass is generally mown twice in the year for hay, it affords abundant crops of valuable winter fodder, which cows and horses are fond of. Poa aquatica is found in Dumbarton, Perth, Forfar, and near Edinburgh ; occasionally in Ireland. In England, in the counties of Northumberland, Durham, York, Notts, Cheshire, Worcester, Glo’ster, } Warwick, Leicester, Oxon, Beds, Cambridge, Norfolk, Suffolk, Middlesex, Surrey, Kent, Sussex, Somerset, and Devon ; also a native of Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, Italy, Russia, and North America. Flowers in the second week of July, and ripens its seed in the mid- dle of August. 68. Poa FLUITANS.* Floating Meadow-Grass. Specific Characters.—Florets not webbed. Spikelets long and li- near. Outer palea seven-ribbed. (Plate XLV.) Description.—\t grows from fifteen inches to two feet high. The root is perennial, creeping. Stem erect, round, and smooth, the lower part decumbent ; bearing six or seven leaves with roughish, finely striated sheaths ; the upper sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with * Poa fluitans, Hooker, Greville. Glyceria fluitans, Smith, Lindley. Festuca: flurtans, Linn. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 103 a long ragged pointed ligule ; the second sheath extending beyond the first joint. Joints about seven, smooth. Leaves rather long and linear, roughish on both surfaces, the lower ones flat, the upper ones generally folded, compressed, the central rib on the back extending down the sheath. Inflorescence mostly simple panicled. Panicle near- ly erect, long and slender, with slender roughish branches arranged alternately on the rachis mostly in pairs of unequal lengths, for the most part erect, but while flowering strongly divaricated for a time. Spikelets few, long and linear, (Fig. 3), variegated with green and white, of six to fourteen florets; the summit of the lower floret ex- tending considerably beyond the large glume of the calyx. Calyz of two very unequal, obtuse, membranous glumes (Fig. 1) without lute- ral ribs. Florets not webbed, of two palee (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret seven-ribbed ; the dorsal rib scarcely extending to the summit, minutely toothed the whole length ; the lateral ribs more or less rough, but without hairs. Inner palea rather shorter than the outer, bifid, furnished with two green marginal ribs minutely fringed on the upper half. Obs.—Poa fiuitans, from the general appearance of the slender panicle and long linear spikelets, can scarcely be confounded with any of the other Poas. The only grass that it can well be mistaken for is Bucetum loliaceum, but is readily distinguished from it, in the outer palea having seven ribs, and the dorsal rib minutely toothed the whole length;- whereas in B. loliaceum the outer palea has but five ribs and the dorsal rib perfectly smooth ; independent of many other characters. This grass grows naturally in wet or muddy places, in ditches, ponds, and margins of rivulets, and will bear cultivation on mode- } rately dry grounds as a permanent pasture grass, and yield a consi- derable produce. Cattle will eat it, but there are many grasses they like better. In several parts of Germany, this grass is cultivated for the seeds, which form the manna-croup of the shops, and are consi- dered a delicacy in soups and gruels. Birds and trout, it is said, are fond of the seeds, which, when ground into meal, make bread very little inferior to that made from wheat. - 104 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. Poa fluitans is common throughout Scotland, England, and Ire- land ; also a native of Norway, Sweden, Germany, Switzerland, France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, North Africa, New Holland, and North America. Flowers in the third week of June, and ripens its seed about the end of July or beginning of August. 69. Bucetum loliaceum. * Slender Fescue-Grass. Specific Character.—Infloresence racemed. (Plate XLV.) Description.—It grows from one to two feet high, The root is per- ennial, fibrous. Stem erect, smooth, round and striated, bearing four or five leaves with smooth striated sheaths; upper sheath much longer than its leaf; crowned with a very short, slightly decurrent ligule, embracing the stem more on the one side than on the other. Joints three or four, smooth; the first and second rather remote. Leaves lanceolate, flat, acute, upper leaf smaller than those below, scabrous at the point, rough on the inner surface, and smooth at the back. Inflorescence racemed, having a spiked appearance. Raceme about one-third the length of the stem; the rachis flattish, and more or less scabrous, leaning slightly to one side. Sprhelets of an acute oval form, arranged in two opposite rows along the rachis, on short footstalks ; sometimes two spikelets arise from the same base. Calyx of two unequal smooth glumes (Fig. 1), containing from six to ten awnles florets; the upper glume three-ribbed; the lower one without lateral ribs. Florets of two palez (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lower- most floret nearly twice the length of the calyx, five-ribbed, the later- al ribs more conspicuous on the upper part, the dorsal rib not extend- ing quite to the summit. Inner palea linear, pointed, membranous, furnished with two green marginal ribs, minutely fringed. Obs.—This grass is distinguished from Lolium perenne, (which it somewhat resembles in its general appearance), in having two glumes, and the spikelets more or less pedunculated ;—whereas in L. perenne the spikelets are perfectly sessile, and the calyx composed of but one glume. (See Plate LXV.) * Bucetum loliacewn, Parnell. Festuca loliacea, Smith, Hooker, Greville, Koch. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 105 From Poa fluitans, in the upper glume having three ribs; outer palea five-ribbed, with the dorsal rib perfectly smooth ;—whereas in P. fiuiians the upper glume has but one rib; outer palea seven- ribbed, with the dorsal rib minutely toothed its whole length. From Bucetum pratense in the inflorescence being racemed ;— whereas in B. pratense the inflorescence is simple panicled. (Plate XLVL) From genus Festuca (where this grass was formerly placed), in the leaves of the root being broader than those of the stem; florets not awned ; outer palea membranous at the summit :—whereas in Festuca the leaves of the root are generally narrower than those of the stem ; florets awned from the extreme summit. Bucetum loliaceum grows naturally in moist, rich meadows, and forms a good permanent pasture grass, superior to rye-grass (Lolium perenne); but as it produces but a small quantity of seed, and that generally imperfect, the cultivation of this grass by seed is im- practicable. It may be propagated by transplanting the roots, but this would incur greater labour and expense than the merits of the grass warrant. It is a frequent grass in Scotland, England, and Ireland; also a native of Germany, France, and Italy. Not found in America. Flowers in the second week of July: the seeds seldom attain to perfection. 70. BucETUM PRATENSE. * Meadow Fescue-Grass. Specific Character—Panicle simple. (Plate XLVI.) Description.—It grows from fifteen inches to two feet high. The root is perennial, fibrous. Stem erect, round, smooth and striated ; bearing four or five leaves, with smooth striated sheaths; the upper sheath much longer than its leaf, crowned with a very short obtuse ligule, decurrent on one side. Joints four, smooth, the first and se- cond very remote. Leaves lanceolate, acute, flat, scabrous at the points, * Bucetum pratense, Parnell. Festuca pratensis, Koch, Smith, Hooker, Greville. Schedonorus pratensis, Lindley. 106 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. roughish on the inner surface, smooth behind. Inflorescence simple panicled ; the first four or five uppermost spikelets arising immediate- ly from the rachis ; the lowermost from the lateral branches. Panicle leaning slightly to one side; rachis roughish, with branches arising alternately on each side. Spzkelets of an ovate-lanceolate form, of five or six florets. Calyx of two acute unequal smooth glumes (Fig. 1), three-ribbed, the lateral ribs of the smalJer glume rather in- distinct. Florets of two palea (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret rather longer than the calyx; five-ribbed ; membranous and often bifid at the summit; sometimes furnished with a very short rough awn, arising immediately behind the membranous extremity. Inner palea about equal in length to the outer palea, membranous, acute, often bifid, with two green marginal ribs minutely fringed. Obs.—This and the two following species I have deemed advisable to place in a new genus, since they differ widely in their characters from the genus in which they were formerly placed ( Festuca.) They are now, however, distinguished from the genus Festuca, in the radi- cal leaves being broader than those of the stem ; awn (when present) arising from behind the summit of the outer palea ;—whereas in Fes- tuca the radical leaves are generally narrower than those of the stem, and the awn always arises from the extreme summit of the outer palea, (See Fig. 2.) Bucetum pratense is very probably only a variety of Bucetum ela- tior, as the only difference between them is, that the panicle of the former is simple while that of the latter is compouud. Bucetum loli- acea appears also gradually to pass into Bucetum pratense. The cultivation of this grass deserves the attention of farmers, as it will thrive well on most soils, and is much liked by all descriptions of cattle. Mr Sinclair states that “ the meadow fescue constitutes a very considerable portion of the herbage of all rich natural pastures and irrigated meadows; it makes excellent hay, and though a large plant, the leaves of the herbage are succulent and tender, and appa- rently much liked by cattle, as they never form rank tufts, which is the case with the larger grasses. It does not appear to arrive at its full productive powers from seed so soon as either the cock’s-foot or fox-tail grass ; and, though ea for permanent pasture, is not by GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 107 itself very well adapted for alternate husbandry, but should be com- bined with cock’s-foot, rye-grass, and rough-stalked meadow-grass. It is of greater value at the time of flowering than at the time the seeds are ripe, as three toone. In the deep alluvial soils in Lincoln- shire, this grass is not so prevalent as in the clay districts. In the vale of Aylesbury it constitutes a considerable portion of the most valuable and fattening pastures of that rich grazing district.” It is a frequent grass in Scotland, England, and Ireland; also a native of Lapland, Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, Russia, and the United States. Its limit of altitude is about 500 feet above the sea. Flowers in the last week of June, and ripens its seed about the beginning of August. 71. BucetuM ELATIUs * Tall Fescue-Grass. Specifie Characters—Awn short. Panicle compound. (Plate XLVI) Description.—It grows from three to five feet high. The root is perennial, fibrous, somewhat creeping, forming large tufts. Stem round, erect, smooth and striated; bearing five or six leaves with striated and mostly smooth sheaths ; the upper sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with a short ligule embracing the stem more on one side than on the other. Joints five, smooth, darkish; the first and second rather remote. Leaves flattish, linear, acute; the upper leaf smaller than those below; scabrous towards the point; rough on the inner surface, smooth on the lower half of the back. Inflorescence compound panicled ; the first four or five spikelets arising immediately from the rachis on short footstalks; the lower ones on simple and compound branches. Panicle large, spreading, inclining to one side ; the rachis and branchesrough. Spikelets of an ovate-lanceolate form, of five or six slightly awned florets. Calyx of two unequal acute glumes (Fig. 1), the inner one the larger, three-ribbed, roughish on the upper part of the central rib; the outer glume without lateral * Bucetum elatiue Parnell. Festuca elatior, Linn. Smith, Hooker, Greville. Schedo- norus elatior, Lindley. 108 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. ribs. lorets of two palee (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret longer than the glumes, roughish to the touch; membranous at the summit and often bifid; five-ribbed, the dorsal rib terminat- ing ina short rough awn passing behind the membranous summit. In- ner palea membranous, equal in length to the outer palea, acute, with two green marginal ribs minutely fringed. variegatum, a variety with large spikelets variegated with purple and white. The branches of the panicle short. “The leaves rather broad and hairy on the inner surface. (Plate XLVIL) Frequent along the sea shore and on banks of rivers. Obs.— Bucetum elatior is distinguished from Bucetum giganteum in the awn of the outer palea being very short, not one-sixth the length of the palea ;—whereas in B. giganteum the awn of the outer palea is very long, more than the length of the palea. (Plate XL VIL) From Bucetum pratense, in the panicle being compound instead of simple. This is a nutritive and very productive grass, grows naturally in rich moist soils of a tenacious clayey nature by the banks of rivers, in moist shady woods, and near the sea coast. Notwithstanding its coarse appearance cattle appear fond of it, especially cows. It would form a valuable grass for those damp soils that cannot be made suf- ficiently dry for the growth of more valuable grasses. Festuca ela- tior is a frequent grass in Scotland, England, and Ireland, also a na- tive of Lapland, Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, and North America. Its limit of altitude is about 500 feet above the sea. Flowers in the first week of July, and ripens its seed about the middle of August. 72. BucETUM GIGANTEUM. * Tall Bearded Fescue-Grass. Specifie Character.—Awn longer than the palea. (XLVIL) Description.—It grows from three to four feet high. The root is * Bromus giganteus, Linn, Hooker. Festucas gigantea, Smith, Lindley, Koch. Buce- tum giganteum, Parnell. 3 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 109 perennial, fibrous, somewhat creeping. Stem erect, round, smooth and striated, bearing five or six broad leaves, with striated and most- ly smooth sheaths ; the upper sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with a short, reddish brown decurrent ligule, embracing the stem more on one side than on the other. Joints five, smooth, darkish ; the first and second rather remote. Leaves lanceolate, flat, acute ; the upper one smaller than those below ; scabrous towards the points ; rough on both surfaces except at the base of the outer surface. In- Jlorescence simple or compound panicled ; the first three or four spike- lets arising immediately from the rachis on short footstalks ; the lower ones on lateral branches. Panicle large, loose, inclining to one side, with the lower branches arising in pairs from the rough rachis. Spikelets ovate-lanceolate, usually of five awned florets. Calyx of two unequal acute glumes (Fig. 1); three-ribbed, smooth and mem- branous at the margins. Florets of two palee (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret longer than the calyx, roughish to the touch, membranous at the summit and often bifid; jive-ribbed, the dorsal rib scabrous towards the upper part, and terminating in a long rough awn longer than the palea, passing behind the membranous summit. Inner palea equal in length to the outer palea, furnished with two green marginal ribs minutely fringed. Obs.— Bucetum giganteum is distinguished from the genus Bromus in the ligule being very short ; styles arising from the summit of the ovarium ;—whereas in Bromus the ligule is prominent and the styles arise from the side of the ovarium, (Fig. 6.) From Bucetum elatior, in the awn being longer than the palea ;— whereas in B. edatior it is not one-sixth the length of the palea. Bucetum giganteum is found in woods and damp shady places. It is said to grow equally well when cultivated in open situations. Horses and cows eat it, but give a preference to many other gras- ses. The seeds are much sought after by small birds. The leaves, although produced in great abundance, afford but little nourishment to cattle. It is a frequent grass in Scotland, England, and Ireland; also a native of Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, France, Switzer- 110 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. land, and Russia. Not found in America. Its limit of altitude is about 500 feet above the sea. Flowers in the third week of July, and ripens its seed about the end of August. 73. Bromus MOLLIs. * Soft Brome- Grass. Specific Characters.—Large glume seven-ribbed. Glumes and florets hairy, not toothed on the central rib. (Plate XLVIII.) Description.—It grows from twelve to eighteen inches high. The root is annual, fibrous. Stem erect, round, and more or less pubescent, with the hairs pointing mostly downwards ; bearing three or four leaves with striated sheaths; upper sheath crowned with a small obtuse jagged ligule; the lower sheaths soft and hairy, with the hairs point- ing downwards. Joints four or five, slightly pubescent. Leaves flat, linear lanceolate, striated, pubescent on both surfaces, rough at the edges and points. Inflorescence racemed or simple panicled. Raceme erect, its branches rough and hairy, the lower ones arising from the rachis mostly in threes. Spikelets erect, ovate, of a darkish green, soft to the touch, usually of ten awned florets; the summit of the large glume being midway between its base and the apex of the third floret (Fig. 3). Calyx of two broad hairy nearly equal glumes (Fig. 1), membranous at the margins; upper glume seven-ribbed ; dorsal rib not toothed ; lower glumes mostly five-ribbed. Florets of two palez (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret rather longer than the glumes, hairy, soft to the touch, seven-ribbed; the dorsal rib not toothed, terminating in a rough awn, which is not quite the length of the palea; membranous at the margins, and mostly bifid at the sum- mit. Inner palea linear-oblong, rather shorter than the outer palea, furnished with two green marginal ribs, fringed with white hairs. Awn slightly wavy, arising from a little below the bifid membran- ous summit of the outer palea. Scales of the nectary entire. Ova- * Bromus mollis, Linn., Koch, Smith, Hooker, Lindley, Greville. (See Babington’s Primitie Flore Sarnice, p. 133 ; a valuable work, containing many useful and instruc- tive remarks.) GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. EE rium obtuse, hairy on the upper half. Styles distinct, arismg from the side of the ovarium. Stigmas feathery. Obs.— Bromus mollis is distinguished from Bromus racemosus in the glumes and florets being hairy, with their central ribs not toothed, —whereas in B. racemosus the glumes and florets are not hairy, but slightly roughish, and their central ribs are distinctly toothed on the upper half. From Bromus secalinus and Bromus arvensis, in the spikelets being hairy, and the summit of the large glume being half-way between its base and the summit of the third floret ;—whereas in B. secalinus and B. arvensis, the spikelets are not hairy, and the summit of the larga glume is half-way between its base and the summit of the second floret of the same side. (Fig. 3.) This grass seems to prevail on poor or exhausted grass lands, and is often an unwelcome intruder in corn-fields and mowing grounds. Its being an annual, producing a scanty supply of herbage, which is not relished by cattle, are disadvantages which are not compensated by its early growth. Small birds are fond of the seeds, which are rather large, and ripen early. It isa frequent grass in Scotland, England, and Ireland; also anative of Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, North Africa, and North America. Its limit of altitude is about 1000 feet above the sea. Flowers in the last week of May, and ripens its seed in the middle of June. 74. Bromus RACEMOsUs. * Smooth Brome-Grass. Specific Characters—Large glume seven-ribbed. Panicle erect. Upper part of the central ribs of the glumes toothed. (Plate XLVIIL) Description.—It grows from fifteen inches to two feet high. The root is annual, fibrous. Stem erect, round, slightly pubescent, (the hairs pointing mostly upwards), bearing four or five leaveswith striated * Bromus racemosus, Koch, Smith, Hooker, Lindley, Greville. 112 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. sheaths ; the upper sheath crowned with an obtuse ragged ligule ; the lowermost sheaths soft and hairy, (the hairs pointing downwards). Joints five, slightly pubescent. Leaves flat, linear lanceolate, pubes- cent, soft to the touch, scabrous at the points. Inflorescence racemed or simple panicled. Raceme erect, its branches rough, the lower ones aris- ing from the rachis mostly in threes. Spikelets erect, ovate, somewhat polished, of a light green, usually of eight awned florets; the sum- mit of the large glume being midway between its base and the apex of the third floret, (Fig. 3). Calyx of two broad nearly equal glumes, (Fig. 1), rough to the touch, membranous at the margins, toothed on the upper half of the keel ; inner glume seven-ribbed ; outer glume, which is the smaller, three-ribbed. lorets of two palee (Fig 2); outer palea of lowermost floret rather longer than the glumes, glossy, roughish to the touch, (not hairy), seven-ribbed ; the dorsal rib mi- nutely toothed on the upper part, and terminating in a rough awn, which is not quite the length of the palea; membranous at the mar- gins, and mostly bifid at the summit. Jnner palea linear oblong, very little shorter than the outer palea, furnished with two green ribs fringed with white hairs. Awn slightly wavy, arising from a little below the bifid membranous apex of the outer palea. Obs.— Bromus racemosus is distinguished from Bromus mollis, in the calyx and florets being rough to the touch, (not hairy), and the upper third of the central ribs of both glumes and outer palea mi- nutely toothed ;—whereas in B. mollis the calyx and florets are soft, covered with a number of slender hairs, and the central ribs of the glumes and outer palea hairy but not toothed. From Bromus secalinus and Bromus arvensis, inthe summit of the large glume being half-way between its base and summit of the third floret on the same side ;—whereas in B. secalinus and B. arvensis, the summit of the large glume is half-way between its base and sum- mit of the second floret, (Fig. 3). Bromus racemosus, although of early growth, will not compensate the farmer for its cultivation, as the quantity of leaves it produces are very few, and they soon wither, affording but little nourishment to cattle. It grows best in poor gravelly soil, and is scarcely ever found in rich pastures. It is a frequent grass in Scotland, England, and Ire- GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 113 land ; also a native of Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, North Africa, and North America. Its limit of altitude seems to be about 1000 feet above the sea. Flowers in the first week of June, and ripens its seed about the end of the same month. 75. Bromus sECALINUS.* Smooth Rye Brome-Grass. Specific Characters.—Large glume seven-ribbed. Panicle slightly drooping. Spikelets ovate, showing the rachis when in seed. (Plate XLIX.) Description. — It grows from eighteen inches to two feet high. The root is annual, fibrous. Stem erect, smooth, round, and striated, bearing four or five leaves with striated sheaths; the upper sheath crowned with an obtuse ragged membranous ligule; the lower sheaths soft and hairy, the hairs pointing downwards. Joints five, slightly hairy. Leaves flat, soft, linear, sharp-pointed, more downy on the upper than on the under surface; the points and margin rough to the touch ; furnished with a few long scattered hairs mostly on the margins towards the base. Inflorescence racemed or simple panicled. Panicle mostly erect ; when in seed slightly drooping; its branches rough, the lower ones arising from the rachis mostly in threes. Spikelets ovate, polished, of a yellowish-green tinge, showing the rachis when advanced in seed ; usually of seven awned florets; the summit of the large glume being midway between its base and the summit of the second floret, (Fig. 3). Calyx of two broad nearly equal acute glumes (Fig. 1), roughish to the touch, membranous at the margins, toothed on the upper half of the keel; inner glume seven-ribbed ; outer glume, which is the smaller, three-ribbed. Florets of two paler (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret oval, rather longer than the glumes, glossy, roughish to the touch, (not hairy), seven-ribbed, the dorsal rib minutely toothed on the upper part, and terminating in a rough awn, which is about the length of the palea ; membranous at the margins and mostly bifid at the summit. Inner palea linear- oblong, very little shorter than the outer palea, furnished with two green marginal ribs fringed with white hairs. Awn slightly wavy, * Bromus secalinus, Smith, Hooker, Koch, Lindley, H 114 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. arising from a little below the bifid membranous apex of the outer palea. velutinus (Plate 1884, Eng. Bot.) A variety with large ovate-oblong spikelets of ten to fifteen florets. Occasionally met with. Bromus velutinus, Hooker, Smith. Bromus multiflorus, Eng. Bot. » Obs.— Bromus secalinus is readily distinguished from Bromus race- mosus and Bromus mollis, in the apex of the large glume being mid-way between its base and the swmmit of the second floret of the same side ; —whereas in B. racemosus and B. mollis it is midway between its base _ and the swmmit of the third floret. (See Fig. 3). This character I find constant, and can therefore be depended on at any stage of growth. From Bromus arvensis, in the spikelets having fewer florets; outer palea rounded at the summit, and much broader compared to its length; twice its width more than equals its length by one-third ;— whereas in B. arvensis the outer palea is more of a conical form, and twice its width exactly equals its length, (Fig. 4). Bromus secalinus is a troublesome weed to the farmer, especially when it takes possession in wheat and rye-fields. It is readily dis- tinguished when growing in these situations, as it overtops the sur- rounding grass, and the panicle droops as the seeds advance to ma- turity. It is an early grass, but the quantity of herbage is too limit- ed to admit of its being cultivated with advantage. The seeds, it is said, are often the cause of bitter flour. It is a frequent grass in the cultivated districts of Scotland, Eng- land, and Ireland; also a native of Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, Italy, and West Asia. Not met with in the United States. Its limit of altitude seems to be about 500 feet above the sea. Flowers in the first week of June, and ripens its seed about the end of the same month. 76. BrRoMUS ARVENSIs.* Taper Field Brome-Grass. Specific Characters.—Large glume seven-ribbed. Panicle droop- ing. Spikelets linear-lanceolate. (Plate XLIX.) * Bromus arvensis, Koch, Smith, Hooker, Lindley. 3 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 13 Description.—It grows from eighteen inches to three feet high. The root-is annual, fibrous. Stem erect, round, smooth, and finely striated; bearing four or five leaves with striated sheaths; the upper sheath crowned with an obtuse ragged ligule; the lower sheaths soft and hairy, the hairs pointing downwards. Joints five, slightly pu- bescent. Leaves flat, soft, sharp-pointed, more downy on the upper than on the under surface, the points and margins rough to the touch. Inflorescence simple panicled, occasionally racemed. Panicle at first erect, at length drooping, its branches and upper part of the rachis rough; the lower branches arising from the rachis mostly in threes. Spzkelets linear-lanceolate, at length more ovate; glossy, frequently tinged with brownish-purple; usually of ten awned florets, the apex of the large glume being midway between its base and the summit of the second floret of the same side. Calyx of two nearly equal broad acute glumes (Fig. 1), membranous at the margins, roughish to the touch, toothed on the upper half of the keels; inner glume seven-ribbed ; outer glume, which is the smallest, three-ribbed. Florets of two palee (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret oval, rather longer than the glumes, glossy, roughish to the touch, seven-ribbed, the dorsal rib minutely toothed on the upper part, and terminating in a rough awn; membranous at the margins, and bifid at the summit. Inner palea linear-oblong ; very little shorter than the outer palea, furnished with two green marginal ribs, fringed with white hairs. Awzn slightly wavy, arising from a little below the bifid membranous apex of the outer palea, and equal in length to the small glume. Scales of the nectary entire. Ovarium obtuse, hairy on the upper part. Styles distinct, arising from the side of the ovarium. Stigmas feathery. Obs.— Bromus arvensis is distinguished from Bromus secalinus, in the spikelets being longer and more linear. Outer palea not so obtuse ; twice the width of the palea exactly equals its length, (Fig. 4) ;— whereas in B. secalinus the outer palea is very obtuse and broad ; twice the width of the palea more than equals the length by one-third, (Fig. 4.) From Bromus racemosus and Bromus mollis, in the apex of the large glume being half-way between its base and the summit of the second 116 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. floret ;—whereas in B. racemosus and B. mollis it is half-way between its base and the summit of the ¢hird floret, (Fig. 3.) * Bromus arvensis frequents richer soils than the three already de- scribed species, although they are frequently all found growing near the same spot. It is also of more value, affording a considerable weight of nutritive hay, especially if cut at the time of flowering; but if left unmown till the seed is ripe, the crop becomes comparatively of no value. The principal merit of this grass is its herbage in spring, af- fording an early bite to sheep and lambs. It is a frequent grass im the neighbourhood of Edinburgh as well as in England and Ireland ; also a native of Lapland, Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, Italy, and West Asia. Not knownin America. Its limit of altitude is about 500 feet above the sea. Flowers in the second week of June, and ripeng its seed in the first week of July. 77. BROMUS STERILIS.* Barren Brome-Grass. Specific Characters. —Large glume three-ribbed. Awn longer than the palea. Outer palea seven-ribbed. Panicle drooping. (Plate L.) Description—It grows from one to two feet high. The root an- nual, creeping. Stem round, roughish, and striated, bearing four or five leaves, with striated, roughish, slightly pubescent sheaths; the upper sheath about equal in length to its leaf; crowned with an ob- tuse ragged ligule. Joints five, naked. Leaves flat, linear, acute, roughish, pubescent, and furnished with a few straggling white hairs, especially on the upper surface. Inflorescence panicled, of a light-green, frequently tinged with purple. Panicle spreading, droop- ing, its branches long, slender, rough, slightly divided, the lower ones mostly in pairs, arising from the rough acutely angular rachis. Spikelets long and lanceolate, usually of eight awned florets. Calyx of two unequal acute glumes (Fig. 1), the upper one with three rough ribs, minutely toothed on the upper half; the lower glume without lateral ribs, sharply toothed on the upper half of the keel. Florets of two palez (Fig. 2); the outer palea of lowermost floret * Bromus sterilis, Linn, Hooker, Smith, Greville, Lindley, Koch. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. hig longer than the calyx; membranous at the margins, bifid at the summit; seven-ribbed, the dorsal rib terminating in a long rough awn, longer than the palea, passing behind the bifid summit. Inner palea linear, lanceolate, about one-third shorter than the outer palea, with two green marginal ribs, delicately fringed. Obs.—Some varieties of this grass, especially those found in dry exposed situations, and somewhat stunted in their growth, very much resemble Bromus diandrus in their general appearance, and which can be only satisfactorily determined by the examination of the ribs of the outer palea. In Bromus sterilis the outer palea has seyen dis- tinct ribs placed at equal distances ;—whereas in Bromus diandrus the outer palea has also seven ribs, but the rib on each side of the dorsal rib is indistinctly seen, and the two marginal ribs on each side are prominent and placed close together. (See Fig. 4.) Bromus sterilis is distinguished from Bromus asper, in the outer palea not being hairy, and the awn being longer than the palea ;— whereas in B. asper the outer palea is hairy, and the awn is never the length of the palea. (Plate LL) This grass grows in shady places, on rather dry sandy soil, espe- cially under hedges and road-sides. It is applied to no agricultural use, as cattle seldom or ever eat it, owing probably to the long rough awns with which the spikelets are furnished. It is a common grass throughout Scotland, England, and Ireland; also a native of Lap- land, Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, Italy, and North Africa. Not found in America. Its limit of altitude seems to be about 600 feet above the sea. Flowers in the third week of June, and ripens its seed in the last week of July. 78. Bromus DIANDRUs. * Upright Annual Brome-Grass. Specific Characters.—Large glume three-ribbed. Awn equal in length to the palea. Panicle erect. (Plate L.) Description.—It grows from six to twelve inches high. The root is annual, fibrous. Stem erect, smooth, round and polished; bearing * Bromus diandrus, Curtis, Smith, Hooker. Bromus madriiensis, Linn. Koch. 1i8 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. three to four leaves, with striated sheaths; the upper sheath some- what downy, crowned with a short, obtuse, ragged ligule; the lower sheaths hairy, with the hairs pointing downwards. Joints four, smooth. Leaves flat, linear, acute, more or less hairy on both surfaces, sca- brous at the points and margins. Inflorescence racemed. Raceme erect, close. Spzhelets arising immediately from the rachis on footstalks not as long as the spikelets; the lower ones mostly in pairs or threes ; the rachis and footstalks nearly smooth; the spikelets generally of a brownish purple, usually of eight awned florets. Calyz of two, un- equal acute glumes (Fig. 1); the upper glume the longest, three- ribbed, the dorsal rib minutely toothed on the upper half; the lower glume without lateral ribs. Florets of two palee (Fig. 2); the outer palea of lowermost floret longer than the calyx, bifid and membra- nous at the summit; the margins occasionally furnished with delicate white hairs; seven-ribbed, the two marginal ribs on each side placed close together, the rib on each side of the central rib very indistinct (Fig. 4), the central rib minutely toothed nearly its whole length, and ter- minating in a long straight rough awn, about the length of the palea, and passing behind the bifid summit. nner palea linear-lanceolate, membranous, a very little shorter than the outer palea, furnished with two green marginal ribs delicately ciliated. Obs.— Bromus diandrus is distinguished from Bromus sterilis, in the panicle being erect and close, with its branches nearly smooth, not as long as the spikelets ; stem smooth ; outer palea with the two mar- ginal ribs on each side close together, the intermediate rib very indis- tinctly seen ; awn about the length of the palea ;—whereas in B. sterilis the panicle is loose and drooping, its branches rough and longer than the spikelets; stem roughish ; outer palea with seven distinct ribs placed at equal distances ; awn longer than the palea. From Bromus erectus, in the outer palea being twice the length of the small glume of the calyx ; awn about equal in length to the pa- lea, and the hairs of the sheaths pomting downwards ;—whereas in B. erectus the outer palea is not more than one-third longer than the small glume of the ealyx ; awn not more than half the length of the palea, and the hairs of the sheaths poimt upwards. Bromus diandrus is of as little use to the agriculturist as the pre- ceding species, and of much rarer occurrence. It grows on dry soils, GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 119 mostly on rock and walls, and is a rare grass in Scotland, found oc- casionally in the neighbourhood of Edinburgh and on the Fifeshire coast. In England it occurs in the counties of Durham, Worcester, Glo’ster, Surrey, Kent, Hants, Somerset, and Devon ; also a native of Germany, Switzerland, France, and Italy. It has not been found in Ireland or America. Its limits of altitude seem to be about 500 feet above the sea. Flowers in the third week of June, and ripens its seed about the end of July. 78. BRoMUS ERECTUs.* Upright Brome-Grass. Specific Characters.—Large glume three-ribbed. Awn about half the length of the palea. Outer palea indistinctly seven-ribbed, and one-third longer than the small glume. (Plate LI.) Description.—It grows from two to three feet high. The root is perennial, fibrous. Stem erect, round, smooth, and polished ; bear- ing four or five leaves, with somewhat hairy sheaths, especially the lower ones, (the hairs pointing upwards); the upper sheath crowned with a short, obtuse, ragged ligule. Joints five, very slightly pubes- cent. Leaves narrow, linear, acute, harsh, scabrous towards the points, nearly erect, with long slender scattered hairs pointing up- wards. The upper leaf broader than those of the root. Inflorescence racemed or simple panicled. Raceme erect, rather close, its branches and upper part of the rachis rough ; the lowermost branches arising from the rachis mostly in threes. Spikelets erect, of eight or nine awned florets, (sometimes with only four florets,) tinged with brown- ish purple. Calyx of two nearly equal acute glumes (Fig.1), glos- sy, membranous at the margins; upper glume the larger, three-rib- bed, the dorsal rib toothed its whole length; lower glume without lateral ribs, and toothed at the back. Florets of two palee (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret about one-third longer than the small glume of the calyx; bifid and membranous at the summit ; seven-ribbed, four of which are rather indistinct; the dorsal rib mi- nutely toothed its whole length, and terminating in a straight rough awn about half the length of the palea, and passing behind the bifid * Bromus erectus, Koch, Smith, Hooker, Lindley. ? 3 ? 3 . 120 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. summit of the palea. Tnner palea about equal in length to the outer palea, membranous, acute, furnished with two green marginal ribs, delicately fringed with fine hairs. Anthers of a deep saffron colour. Styles rather distant. hirsutus.—A variety with the stem glumes and outer palea hairy. Found occasionally on dry sandy soil. Obs.— Bromus erectus has frequently been mistaken for Bromus arvensis, but is readily distinguished from it in the large glume of the calyx having only three ribs ;—whereas in B. arvensis the large glume has seven ribs. (See Plate XLIX. Fig. 1.) From Bromus asper, in the radical leaves being narrower than those of the stem; hairs of the sheaths pointing upwards ; outer palea seven-ribbed, and not more than one-third longer than the small glume of the calyx; whereas in B. asper the radical leaves are broad- er than those of the stem; hairs of the sheaths point downwards ; outer palea five-ribbed, and twice the length of the small glume of the calyx. Bromus erectus is stated by Mr Curtis as bemg peculiar to chalky soils, and that it becomes more luxuriant in growth when cultivated ina garden than in its natural wild state. Mr Sinclair, however, has found it on rather low-lying sandy soils, where it appeared as luxuri- ant as when cultivated in the grass garden. It seems to be not much relished by cattle, and but little adapted for pasture land. Pheasants, it is said, are fond of the seeds. This grass is by no means frequent in Scotland, and seldom met with in Ireland. In England it is found in the counties of York, Anglesea, Worcester, Oxon, Cambridge, Norfolk, Surrey, Kent, Sussex, and Somerset. It is also a native of Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, and Italy. Not found in America. Its limit of altitude seems to be about 500 feet above the sea. _ Flowers in the second and third week of June, and ripens its seed in the third week of July. 80. Bromus ASPER. * Wood Brome-Grass. Specific Characters. — Large glume three-ribbed. Awn rather * Bromus asper’, Linn, Smith, Hooker, Greville, Koch, Lindley. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 121 more than half the length of the palea. Outer palea hairy, five-rib- bed. Panicle drooping. (Plate LI.) Description.—It grows from two to three feet high. The root is annual or biennial, fibrous. Stem erect, round, and slightly rough- ish ; bearing four or five leaves, with striated hairy sheaths (the hairs pointing downwards), the lower sheaths somewhat hispid, the upper sheath crowned with an obtuse lacerated membranous ligule. Joints five, small, rather hairy. Leaves broad, flat, rough, sharp-pointed, with a few long straggling white hairs; the radical leaves broadest. Inflorescence simple panicled. Panicle drooping, at length pendulous, its branches and upper part of the rachis very rough ; the lower branches long, and generally in pairs. Spckelets usually an inch in length, linear-lanceolate, of about eight awned florets, glossy, tinged occasionally with brownish-purple. Calyx of two unequal acute glumes (Fig. 1), the upper glume the longest, three-ribbed, the dorsal rib minutely toothed nearly its whole length; the lower glume with- out lateral ribs, and toothed on the upper half of the keel, Florets of two palez (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret longer than the calyx, and about twice the length of the small glume ; bifid and membranous at the summit; five-ribbed, the dorsal rib minutely toothed, and terminating in a long straight rough awn, about half the length of the palea, and passing behind the membranous bifid summit. The lower part of the palea hairy, especially the marginal ribs. Inner palea rather shorter than the outer palea, with two green marginal ribs delicately fringed. Obs.—Bromus asper is distinguished from Bromus erectus, in the upper leaf beimg narrower than the radical leaves; hazrs on the sheaths pointing downwards; outer palea five-ribbed, and twice the length of the small glume of the calyx ;—whereas in Bromus erectus the upper leaf is broader than the radical leaves; hairs on the sheaths pointing upwards ; outer palea seven-ribbed, and not more than one-third longer than the small glume of the calyx. From Bromus sterilis, in the outer palea being hairy and the awn not the length of the palea ;—whereas in B. sterilis the outer palea is never hairy, and the awn is always longer than the palea. This grass grows naturally in damp shady woods, and is never 122 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. found in open situations. It is a tall coarse grass, not recommended for agricultural purposes. Horses and cows eat it in common with other grasses of the wood, but they give a preference to pasture grass, except in cases of necessity when quantity is of greater consideration than quality. It is a common grass in Scotland, England, and Ire- land; also a native of Norway, Sweden, Germany, Switzerland, France, Italy, and Russia. Not found in America. Its limit of altitude is about 500 feet above the sea. Flowers in the third week of July, and ripens its seed about the end of August. 81. TRISETUM PRATENSE.* Narrow-Leaved Oat-Grass. Specific Character.—Leaves and sheaths not hairy. (Plate LU.) Description.—It grows from eighteen inches to two feet high. The root is perennial, fibrous. Stem erect, nearly round, smooth, and finely striated, bearing from three to four leaves with striated sheaths ; the upper sheath very long, more than thrice the length of its leaf, slightly roughish to the touch, crowned with a long narrow sharp membranous ligule; lower sheaths much shorter than their leaves, » and generally smooth. Joints three, smooth, situated near the base. Leaves, in exposed situations narrow, linear, acute, generally folded, harsh, smooth on the back, and rough on the inner surface. On each side of the central rib are two light-green lmes, very perceptibly seen when the leaf is held against the light. Inflorescence compound ra- cemed or simple panicled; the first three or four spikelets arising im- mediately from the rachis on short footstalks, the lower spikelets mostly in pairs on long peduncles. Panicle long, erect, close, the rachis and branches rough. Spikelets large, of an oval form, of four or five awned florets scarcely protruding beyond the calyx. Calyx of two unequal acute glumes (Fig. 1), roughish at the keel, three- ribbed, purplish on the lower half. Foret of two palez, (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret acute, often bifid ; membranous on the upper part; roughish on the keel ; five-ribbed ; hairy at the base. Inner palea about one-fourth shorter than the outer palea, flat, * Avena pratense, Koch, Smith, Hooker. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 123 very thin, and delicately fringed at the margins. Avon arising from a little above the centre of the outer palea, sometimes from the cen- tre, (liable to vary even in the same plants), rough; twisted at the base; longer than the palea; becoming bent when dry. longifolium, a variety with long linear flat leaves, the upper leaf very rough on both surfaces and margins, but rather more so on the inner surface; the second leaf rather broader and more than three times the length of the upper leaf, very rough on the in- ner surface, but nearly smooth behind; most of the radical leaves as long as the culm, narrower than those of the stem, perfectly smooth behind, and very rough within ; all the leaves have a glaucous appear- ance, especially on the inner surface. The stem roughish from above downwards ; sheaths flattish, slightly carinated, strongly ribbed : roughish to the touch from below upwards; root with several long downy fibres; in other respects similar to Trisetum pratense. (Plate LIL) This variety is found in moist shady woods near the sea in the neighbourhood of Edinburgh. latifolium, a tall, stout variety, growing to the height of two feet or more; the leaves short and broad, coming suddenly to a point; the upper leaf flat, rough on the inner surface and edges, nearly smooth behind, with a long, compressed, carinated sheath, rough from below upwards ; the lower leaves folded, rough on the inner surface, and perfectly smooth behind ; stem smooth ; root fibrous (Plate LIL) In other respects it agrees with Trisetum pratense. This description and accompanying figure were taken from an authentic spe- cimen gathered in the Isle of Arran, and which is now growing in the Edinburgh Botanic Garden. Itseems to be the Avena planiculmis of Hooker, and answers to Smith’s description of Avena alpina ; but as to whether it be known to continental authors under those names ap- pears doubtful. 1 cannot, however, discover any character sufficient- ly prominent to consider it as any thing more than a variety of Trise- tum pratense. The length and width of the leaves are liable to vary according to the soil and situation, and the carinated sheaths cannot be depended on as a character, as we frequently meet with it both in the broad and narrow-leaved varieties. Obs.—Trisetum pratense differs from Trisetum pubescens in the spikelets being larger ; large glume of the calyx more lanceolate ; ra- 124 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. dical leaves harsh, rough, not hairy ;—whereas in 7. pubescens the radical leaves are soft, flaccid, and hairy. (See Plate LILI.) From Trisetum flavescens, in the spikelets being much larger and fewer ; ligule long and pointed ;—whereas in 7. flavescens the spike- lets are small and numerous; ligule very short. Trisetum pratense does not appear to be confined to any particular -place or soil, as it is found growing on rocks, dry heaths, as well asin moist meadows, but it gives a preference to chalky soils. Its produce and nutritive properties are not sufficiently great to be recommend- ed to the notice of farmers. It bears a greater value during the time of flowering than when the seeds are ripe as nine to four. Sheep and cows are fond of the early leaves, but when allowed to grow too coarse, cattle seldom eat it. This grass is frequent in Scotland, England, and Ireland ; also a native of Lapland, Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, Spain, Portugal, and Italy. Not found in America. Its limit of altitude is 2500 feet above the sea. Flowers in the first week of June, and ripens its seed in the middle of July. 82. TRISETUM PUBESCENS.* Downy Oat-Grass. Specific Characters.—Radical leaves and sheaths hairy. Ligule acute and prominent. (Plate LUI.) : Description.—It grows from one to two feet high. The root is pe- rennial, somewhat creeping. Stem erect, round, smooth, and finely striated; bearing usually five leaves; upper sheath long, more than thrice the length of the leaf, smooth, crowned with a prominent, acute, membranous ligule ; lower sheaths generally shorter than their leaves, covered with long soft hairs. Joints three or four, the two lowermost situated at the base. Leaves flat, broadish, flaccid, soft, hairy on both surfaces, especially those from the root. Inflorescence compound ra- cemed, or simple panicled; the three or four uppermost spikelets arising immediately from the rachis on short footstalks; the lower spikelets from lateral branches or on long peduncles. Panicle erect, rachis nearly smooth, the branches rough. Spzkelets not so large as * Trisctum pubescens. Lindley. Avena pubescens, Koch, Smith, Hooker, Greville. 4 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 125 those of Trisetum pratense, of an oval form, scarcely protruding be- yond the calyx, usually of three awned florets. Calyx of two une- qual membranous acute glumes (Fig. 1), the upper one the largest ; three-ribbed ; the lower one without lateral ribs, and about one-third shorter. Florets of two palee (Fig. 2); the outer palea of lower- _ most floret membrancus on the upper half; five-ribbed, roughish on the keel, tinged with reddish purple ; hairy at the base, and fre- quently jagged at the summit. Inner palea very thin, flat, much shorter than the outer palea, and very minutely fringed at the mar- gins. -Awn longer than the large glume of the calyx ; arising from a little above the centre of the outer palea; rough, of a purplish tinge, twisted at the base, and when dry becomes bent. Obs.— Trisetum pubescens is distinguished from Trisetuwm pratense in the spzkelets being smaller ; large glume of the calyx broader ; ra- dical leaves soft and hairy ;—whereas in 7. pratense the spikelets are larger ; large glume of the calyx lanceolate; radical leaves harsh, rough on the inner surface, but without hairs. (See Plate LIT.) From Trisetum flavescens, in the spikelets being twice the size and fewer ; ligule long and acute ;—whereas in T. flavescens the ligule is very short and obtuse. (Plate LIV.) It is stated by Mr Sinclair, that the downy hairs which cover the surface of the leaves of this grass when growing on poor, dry, or chalky soils, almost disappear when cultivated on richer soils. It has properties which recommend it to the notice of agriculturists, be- ing hardy, and a small impoverisher to the soil; the reproductive power is also considerable, though the foliage does not attain to a great length. Horses, cows, and sheep, eat this grass when mixed with others. It is frequent in Scotland, England, and Ireland ; also a native of Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, Italy, and Russia. Not found in America. Its limit of altitude is 1000 feet above the sea. Flowers in the second week of June, and ripens its seed in the mid- dle of July. ! 426 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 83. TRISETUM FLAVESCENS. * Yellow Oat-Grass. Specific Characters.—Radical leaves and sheaths sae Ligule very short and obtuse. (Plate LIV.) Description.—It grows from one to two feet high. The root is perennial, somewhat creeping. Stem erect, round, smooth and polish- ed, bearing six or seven leaves with striated sheaths ; the upper sheath about twice the length of its leaf, crowned with a short obtuse ligule ; lower sheaths covered more or less with long, soft, deflexed hairs. Joints four or five, smooth, often furnished with a circle of deflexed hairs underneath. Leaves flat, acute, more or less rough on both surfaces, hairy on the inner surface. Inflorescence panicled. Panicle erect, spreading, rachis and branches very slightly scabrous, the lower branches arising from the rachis mostly in fives. Spikelets small, erect, numerous, usually of three awned florets, projecting beyond the calyx. Calyx of two unequal membranous acute glumes (Fig. 1); roughish on the keels; the lower glume the smaller, about one- third shorter than the upper glume without lateral ribs; the upper glume three-ribbed, and of a light green on the back. Florets of two palee (Fig. 2); the outer palea of lowermost floret membranous, tinged with light green, bifid at the summit, five-ribbed, hairy at the base. Inner palea membranous, linear, acute, shorter than the outer patea, and very minutely fringed. Awz longer than the palea, slen- der, rough, twisted at the base, becoming bent when dry; arising from the back of the outer palea a little above the centre. Obs.— Trisetum, flavescens is distinguished from Trisetum pubescens, in the spikelets bemg much smaller and more numerous, and the /- gule very short and obtuse ;—whereas in 7. pubescens the spikelets are more than twice the size and the ligule is long and acute. (Plate LIL.) This grass grows naturally in almost every kind of soil, from the limestone rock to the irrigated meadow, and is always present in the richest natural pastures. It thrives best in a dry calcareous soil, and * Trisetum flavescens, Lindley. Avena flavescens, Koch, Smith, Hooker, Greville. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 127 is one of those grasses which never thrives unless combined with others. Sheep prefer it to most grasses. It is frequent in Scotland, England, and Ireland; also a native of Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Russia, and North Africa. Not found in America. Its limit of altitude is about 1000 feet above the sea. Flowers in the second week of July, and ripens its seed about the middle of August. 84. FESTUCA BROMOIDES. * Barren Fescue-Grass. Specific Character.—Awn longer than the palea. (Plate LIV.) Description.—It grows eighteen inches high. The root is annual, fibrous. Stem erect, slender, smooth, round and naked on the upper half; bearing three or four leaves with smooth striated sheaths; the upper sheath much longer than its leaf, crowned with a very short li- gule, rounded on each side, the one side more prominent than the other ; second sheath not reaching to the first jomt. Joints three, smooth, thé second joint frequently throwing out a branch. Leaves very narrow, rather short, often involute, smooth behind, hairy on the inner surface. Inflorescence simple panicled, long and slender, the upper part taking a gentle curve, with the spikelets leaning to one side; the branches erect, rough, angular, and single, the lower one the longest. Spikelets erect, the seven or eight uppermost arising im- mediately from the rachis, the lower ones on branches ; of five awned florets. Calyx of two very unequal acute glumes (Fig. 1,) the upper- most three-ribbed, the lower one without lateral ribs, (the length of the small glumes varies exceedingly even in the same panicle, therefore it cannot be relied on as a character.) Florets of two palez (Fig. 2); the outer palea of lowermost floret equal in length to the large glume, five-ribbed ; roughish on the upper part, terminating in a long slen- der roughish awn, rather longer than the palea. Inner palea lance- olate, thin, occasionally bifid, furnished with two green marginal ribs, minutely fringed on the upper half. * Festuca bromoides, Smith, Hooker, Greville. Vulpia bromoides, Dumort., Lindley, Festuca sciuvroides, Koch. 128 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. — nana. (Plate LV.) This is only a stunted variety, in which the stem is sheathed nearly to the summit, found grow- ing in dry exposed situations. It seems to be the Festuca Myurus of Smith, Hooker, Lindley, and others, but not the Festuca Myurus of continental authors, which is a very different plant, being considera- bly more luxuriant in the panicle, the stem sheathed to the very base of the panicle; the large glume of the calyx but half the length of the lowermost floret ; the outer palea rough on the upper part, with the dorsal rib and margins ciliated. (See Plate LV.) The figure is taken from Leers, Flora Herbornensis, (Plate II. Fig. 5;) and here inserted as a comparison, should the plant be found to occur in Scot- land. Obs.—There are few grasses that vary so much in their growth as Festuca bromoides. In dry situations, such as on tops of walls, it is found from two to six inches in height, of an upright rigid appear- ance, becoming soon dry and withered, while those in corn-fields and shady places grow to the height of two feet or more, of a tall grace- ful slender figure, of a pleasant green, with the panicle more or less luxuriant, taking a gentle bend to one side. It is a frequent grass in Scotland, England, and Ireland, also a na- tive of France, Germany, Holland, Belgium, Switzerland, and Italy. Not foundin America. Its limit of altitude is about 1000 feet above “the sea. Of no material agricultural use. Flowers in the second week of June, and ripens its seed about the middle of July. 85. FESTUCA OVINA. * Sheeps Fescue-Grass. Specific Characters—Awn not half the length of the palea. Stem under the panicle, rough. Upper leaf rough on the outer surface. (Plate LVI.) Description.—It grows from three to nine inches high. The root is perennial, fibrous. Stem erect, more or less angular and roughish under the panicle ; bearing three or four leaves, with roughish sheaths, * Festuca ovina, Linn, Koch, Hooker, Smith, Lindley, Greyille. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 129 especially the lower ones ; the upper sheath much longer than its leaf, crowned with a short bi-lobed ligule, with one lobe more prominent than the other. Joints two or three, near the base. Leaves short, rigid, involute, of a rounded appearance, roughish on the outer surface ; three-ribbed and hairy within ; the radical leaves numerous, tufted, and much curved. Inflorescence simple panicled. Panicle short, close, erect, unilateral, leaving the rachis naked behind : branches angular and rough, very seldom in pairs, the lowermost the longest, and rather remote. Spikelets erect, of six florets, with very short awns; the six or seven uppermost spikelets arising immediately from the rachis on short fovutstalks; the lower ones from lateral branches; the summit of the lowermost floret extending beyond the large glume of the calyx. Calyz of two unequal acute glumes (Fig. 1,) the uppermost three-ribbed, the lower one without lateral ribs. Florets of two palee (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret five- ribbed, rather indistinctly seen, (unless the palea be held between the lens and the light,) terminating in a short rough awn about one-sixth the length of the palea. Inner palea bifid, furnished with two green marginal ribs minutely fringed on the upper half. The following are some of the more striking varieties :— hirsuta. The same as the one described, but with the glumes and florets hairy. Frequent in rocky localities. Festuca hir- suta of Host. vivipara. A variety with the imner palea metamor-, phosed into a kind of leaf, which is generally three times the length of the outer palea, (Plate LVI.) Common in alpine districts. Fes- tuca vivipara of Smith. ; angustifolia. A delicate and slender variety, with long narrow leaves, (Plate LVI.) Very common in the Highlands, where it forms a great part of the herbage. Festuca tenuifolia of Schra- der. cesia. A striking variety, taller and stouter than those described ; the spikelets larger and of a yellowish hue; outer palea mucronate and frequently hairy, (Plate LVII.) The whole plant is more or less glaucous. Not common, but occasionally met with. Festuca cesia of Smith. Obs.— Festuca ovina and its varieties differ from Festuca duriuscula I 130 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. in being of smaller growth; the stem on the upper part more or less rough and angular, especially under the panicle; upper leaf invo- lute, rough on the outer surface, and the root fibrous ;—whereas in Festuca duriuscula the stem immediately under the panicle is round and smooth, the upper leaf mostly flat and smooth on the outer sur- face, and the root is more or less creeping. (See Plate LVL) This grass grows naturally on rather dry sandy soils; frequently at an elevation of 4000 feet above the sea, and forms the greater part of sheep pasture grounds in the Highlands. It is the favourite food of sheep; they prefer it to all other grasses, for although small it is very nutritious. Linneus states that sheep have no relish for hills and heaths that are destitute of this grass. The smallness. of its produce renders it entirely unfit for hay. It is a common grass throughout Scotland, England, and Ireland; also a native of Lap- land, Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, Switzerland, Spain, Por- tugal, Ifaly, Russia, Iceland, Siberia, Greenland, and North Ame- rica. Flowers in the second week of June, and ripens its seed about the middle of July. 86. FESTUCA DURIUSCULA. * Hard Fescue- Grass. Specific Characters.—Awn not as long as the palea. Stem under the panicle smooth. Upper leaf smooth on the outer surface. (Plate LVIIL) : Description.—It grows from one to two feet high. The root is perennial, somewhat creeping, occasionally throwing out lateral shoots. Stem erect, round, smooth, bearing three or four leaves with smooth striated sheaths; upper sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with a very short, unequal bi-lobed ligule. Joints two or three, smooth. Leaves of the stem somewhat lanceolate, acute, flat, smooth behind, roughish and slightly downy on the inner surface, about eight or nine- ribbed, broader than the radical leaves, which are linear (very long in shady places), compressed, and somewhat fleshy. Inflorescence * Festuca duriuscula, Linn,, Smith, Hooker, Greville. Lindley, 4 ~ «nal GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 131 simple panicled. Panicle erect, the upper part racemed, the lower with angular, rough, slightly spreading branches; very seldom in pairs, the lowermost branch the longest. Spikelets erect, arranged on the rachis and branches alternately ; of about seven awned florets. Calyx of two unequal, lanceolate, acute glumes (Fig. 1), the upper glume the larger, three-ribbed, the lower one without lateral ribs. Florets of two palez (Fig. 2.), the outer palea of lowermost floret smooth, five-ribbed, terminating in a short rough awn, about one-sixth the length of the palea. Inner palea narrow, acute, equal in length to the outer palea, furnished with two green marginal ribs, minutely fringed on the upper part. The following are some of the more striking varieties :— hirsuta. This variety is similar to the one described, differing only in the outer palea being hairy, and the root more creep- ing, throwing out lateral shoots, (Plate LVIII.) Occasionally met with in shady places. Jiliformis. A tall, slender variety, with the upper part gracefully drooping ; palea acute, toothed on the upper half of the dorsal rib, and terminating im a slender awn rather more than half the length of the palea; the leaves on the stem long and linear, and the root throwing out lateral branches, (Plate LIX.) Found grow- ing in rich soil by the sides of lanes and shady woods. arenaria. A variety which seldom exceeds a foot in height ; the panicle short and compact; leaves short and few, and the root oftentimes very much creeping, (Plate LIX.) The whole plant soon assumes a withered appearance. It is frequently found in sandy soil, especially along the sea coast. humilis. This variety is very slender, seldom exceed- ing a foot in height. The panicle is narrow and compact; the stem round and smooth throughout; the leaves smooth on the outer sur- face; sheaths of the radical leaves hairy; the first and second joints very remote, and the root creeping, (Plate LX.) It is by no means a common variety, but is eccasionally met with in alpine glens. rubra. The largest of all the varieties, growing to the height of two feet or more. The spikelets seven or eight-flowered; the leaves of the stem broadish and flat; the root extensively creeping, 132 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. throwing out lateral shoots, (Plate LX.) It is found growing in sandy places along the sea-shore. Festuca rubra of Koch, Hooker. As all these grasses vary exceedingly from change of soil and situation, it is difficult to determine what may be considered as species and what varieties, the structure of the spikelets being pre- cisely the same in all, differing only in size and length of the awns, which are very uncertain characters. The creeping root has been considered by some authors to form a good mark of specific distine- tion ; but when the plant cannot otherwise be distinguished except by reference to the root, I have considered it advisable to place it under the head of a variety. Among the grasses which are of the most importance for agricul- tural purposes, the Festuca duriuscula ranks as one of the first. It is very productive for its size, of early growth, and thrives well in a great variety of soils and situations. It withstands the effects of severe dry weather in rich natural pastures, better than many other grasses, and retains its verdure during winter in a re- markable degree. Sheep and hares are remarkably fond of this grass. If cultivated for the purpose of hay it ought to be mown at the time of flowering, as it then contains more nutritive matter than at the time the seed is ripe. It is acommon grass throughout Scot- land, England, and Ireland ; alsoa native of Lapland, Norway, Swe- den, Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, Russia, Iceland, and North America. Rare in the United States, supposed to have been intro- duced. Its limit of altitude is about 3000 feet above the sea. Flowers in the second week of June, and ripens its seed in the mid- dle of July. 87. TrITICUM SYLVATICUM. * Slender Wheat-Grass. Specific Characters.—Spikelets long and cylindrical. Awn more than half the length of the palea. Stem smooth. Leaves hairy on the inner surface. (Plate LXI.) * Brachypodium sylvaticum, Hooker, Lindley, Koch, Beauv. Festuca sylvatica, Smith, GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 133 Description.—It grows from one to two feet high. The root is perennial, fibrous. Stem erect, round, smooth, and slender; bearing four or five leaves, with hairy striated sheaths, especially the lower ones ; upper sheath shorter than its leaf, crowned with an obtuse hairy ligule. Joints four, hairy, the first and second very remote. Leaves polished, of a darkish-green, broadish, sharp-pointed, rough- ish on the outer, and hairy on the inner surface ; finely striated, with five of the ribs very distinctly marked. Inflorescence racemed, approaching to a spike, the peduncles of the spikelets being very short but distinct ; the upper part slightly drooping ; the rachis quite smooth. Spzkelets long and linear, usually of ten awned florets, arranged on the rachis alternately in two rows. Calyx of two ra- ther unequal acute (sometimes awned) seven-ribbed glumes, (Fig. 4), more or less hairy. Florets of two palee (Fig. 2), the outer pa- lea of lowermost floret rather longer than the calyx; more or less hairy, seven-ribbed ; furnished with a long straight rough awn, sel- dom longer than the palea, arising from the very summit. nner pa- lea rather shorter than the outer palea, obtuse at the summit, with two green marginal ribs strongly fringed on the upper half. Obs.—The long cylindrical spikelets will readily distinguish this species independent of any other character. This grass is the Brachypodium sylvaticum of Beauvois, Festuca sylvatica of Smith, and Bromus sylvaticus of Pollich: but, as I can discover no essential generic distinction between it and Triticum ca- ninum, I have therefore removed it to the genus Triticum. Triticum sylvaticum is of no agricultural importance, as oxen, horses, and sheep refuse to eat it, except in cases of extreme necessity where there is no choice. Hares and rabbits have been observed to crop the extremity of the leaves during deep snows and severe frost. Its natural place of growth is in damp woods and moist shady places; it also thrives well when cultivated in open ground. It isa frequent grass in Scotland, England, and Ireland; also a native of Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, and Russia. Not known in America. Its limit of altitude is about 1000 feet above the sea. Flowers in the first week of July, and ripens its seed about the end of the same month. 134 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 88. TRITICUM CRISTATUM.* Crested Wheat-Grass. Specific Characters.—Stem rough. Spike short. Leaves hairy on the inner surface. (Plate LXI.) Description.—It grows from nine to eighteen inches high. Stem ascending, round, and hairy, bearing three or four leaves with smooth striated sheaths ; the upper sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with a very short obtuse ligule. Joints four, smooth. Leaves linear, acute, smooth behind, hairy in front. Inflorescence spiked. Spike usually about an inch in length, with the margins of the rachis rough. Spike lets sessile, of an oval form, arranged alternately on each side of the rachis, of four or five florets. Calyx of two awned glumes of equal lengths (Fig. 1), lanceolate, six-ribbed (Fig. 4), the largest rib run- ning very much to a side. lorets of two palee (Fig. 2), the lower- most palea of first floret longer than the glumes; five-ribbed, with a long rough awn, nearly as long as the palea, arising from the extreme summit. Inner palea as long as the outer, delicately fringed at the margins. Nectary of two oval somewhat hairy scales. Anthers linear forked at each side. Filament capillary. Ovarium obtuse, slightly hairy. Styles short, distinct. Stigmas feathery. Obs.—The short spike and rough stem will readily distinguish this species. It somewhat resembles Hordeum maritimum, but differs in the spikelets being arranged on the rachis solitary; calyx containing three or more florets ;—whereas in H. maritimum the spikelets are in threes, and the calyx contains but one floret; independent of many other characters. (Plate X.) This grass, which is now supposed to be extinct in Britain, was discovered many years ago by the late Mr Don, who gathered it on the east coast of Scotland between Arbroath and Montrose. It is a native of Germany, France, and Switzerland. Flowers in the second week of July, and ripens its seed about the middle of August. The accompanying figure and description were taken from a speci- * Triticum cristatum, Smith, Hooker, Lindley. Bromus cristatus, Linn. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 135 men cultivated in the Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, obtained from Mr Don himself. 89. TrITICUM CANINUM. * Bearded Wheat-Grass. Specific Characters—Root fibrous. Stem smooth. Awn longer than the palea. Leaves not hairy on the inner surface. (Plate LXIL.) Description.—It grows from two to four feet high. The root is perennial, fibrous. Stem erect, round, smooth and slender ; bearing four or five leaves with smooth striated sheaths ; the upper sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with a very short obtuse ligule. Joznts six, smooth and darkish. Leaves polished, of a darkish green, broad, lanceolate and acute; the upper leaf smaller than those below, rough- ish on both surfaces, but more so on the inner surface. Inflorescence spiked. Spike long and slender, about one-tenth the length of the stem, with the margins of the rachis roughish. Spikelets sessile, of an oval form, arranged in two rows on the zig-zag rachis: of four or five awned florets. Calyx of two nearly equal glumes (Fig. 1); roughish, awned, three-ribbed, and somewhat hairy, (Fig. 4.) Florets of two palee (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret equal in length to the glume, slightly roughish to the touch, five-ribbed, more or less hairy, furnished with a long slender rough awn, longer than the palea, and arisimg from the very summit. Inner palea about equal in length to the outer palea, membranous, with two green mar- ginal ribs delicately fringed. Obs.—This species is readily distinguished from all the others in the awn of the outer palea being longer than the palea, and the glumes of the calyx distinctly three-ribbed. (See Fig. 4.) Triticum caninum is distinguished from Triticum sylvaticum the spikelets being much shorter; the whole plant much taller and containing many more spikelets; glumes three-ribbed ; inner palea flat at the summit ;—whereas in J. sylvaticum the large glume is seven-ribbed, and the zzner palea rounded at the summit. From Triticum repens in the root being fibrous ; glumes three- * Triticum caninum, Koch, Smith, Hooker, Greville, Lindley. 136 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. ribbed; awn of the outer palea longer than the palea ;—whereas in T. repens the root is extensively creeping ; glumes more than three- ribbed ; awn when present not the length of the palea. Triticum caninum may be considered as one of the most valuable among the early grasses, for, although it does not flower before the first week of July, it affords a large crop of nutritive herbage early in spring, which horses, cows, and sheep eat with avidity. It grows naturally in moist woods and damp shady situations, and will thrive well when cultivated in open places, in almost any kind of soil ex~- cept that which is tenacious and retentive of moisture. It is a frequent grass in Scotland, England, and Ireland; also a native of Lapland, Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland, Iceland, and Siberia. Found also in the United States, but is reported to have been introduced. Its limit of altitude is about 500 feet above the sea. Flowers in the first week of July, and ripens its seed in the early part of August. 90. TRITICUM REPENS. * Creeping Wheat-Grass. Specific Characters.— Root creeping. Rachis rough. Stem smooth. Leaves smooth on the lower half of the outer surface (Plate LXII.) Description.—It grows from one to two feet high. The root is pe-. rennial, creeping. Stem erect, round, smooth, and striated, bearing five or six flat leaves with smooth striated sheaths ; the upper sheath shorter than its leaf, crowned with a very short obtuse ligule. Joints smooth, the two uppermost very remote. Leaves dark green, acute, frequently all directed to one side; upper leaf broader than those of the root, roughish, and frequently hairy on the inner surface, smooth behind on the lower half. Inflorescence spiked. Spike erect, about one-fifth the length of the stem, with the margins of the rachis rough. Spikelets of an oval form, arranged alternately in two rows on the zig-zag rachis; of four to five awnless florets. Calyx of two * Triticum repens, Linn. Koch, Smith, Hooker, Lindley, Greville. 3 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 137 equal acute glumes (Fig. 1), generally four-ribbed, with two or three smaller intermediate ones; the dorsal rib running to a side (Fig. 4.) Florets of two palee (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret, acute, five-ribbed ; slightly roughish to the touch. Inner palea with two green marginal ribs, minutely toothed. aristatum, a common variety with the florets awned ; the awn about half the length of the palea, very seldom as long as the palea. (Plate LXIIL) It is frequently mistaken for Triticum caninum ; but differs from it in the glumes having five distinct ribs with two or three small intermediate ones, the dorsal rib running very much to a side. Awn seldom more than half the length of the palea, (but never longer than the palea.) Pedicle of second floret rough but not hairy, and the root creeping ;—whereas in Triticum caninum the glumes have but three ribs, the dorsal rib passing immediately down the centre. Awn longer than the palea. Pedicle of second floret hairy, and the root fibrous. Triticum repens is distinguished from Triticum caninum, in the root being extensively creeping; glumes more than three-ribbed ; outer palea acute, not awned (except in variety aristatum) ;—where- as in J. caninum the root is fibrous; glumes three-ribbed; outer palea tipped with an awn longer than the palea. From Triticum junceum, in the rachis being rough; glumes acute and roughish on the upper part of the central rib; spikelets easily detached without the rachis breaking ;—whereas in T. junceum the rachis is perfectly smooth; glumes smooth and obtuse; spikelets with difficulty detached without breaking the rachis. This grass is regarded by farmers as a most troublesome weed, be- ing with difficulty eradicated when it once gets possession of the ground, as its long creeping root branches out in every direction, when it becomes a great impoverisher to the soil. It is frequent in neglected gardens and rich cultivated soil. Horses and cows eat it when young, but dislike it when in flower. Dogs eat the leaves me- dicinally to excite vomiting. It isa common grass throughout Scot- land, England, and Ireland ; also a native of Norway, Sweden, Ger- many, France, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland, Italy, Russia, and Ice- land. It is found also in the United States, but is supposed to have 138 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. been introduced. Its limit of altitude is about 500 feet above the sea. Flowers in the first week of July, and ripens its seed in the mid- dle of August. 91. TriTicuM JUNCEUM. * Sea Wheat-Grass. Specific Characters.—Florets not awned. Rachis smooth. Ra- dical leaves involute. (Plate LXIII.) Description.—It grows from fifteen inches to two feet high. The root is perennial, creeping. Stem erect, round, and smooth, bearing five or six leaves with smooth slightly striated sheaths ; upper sheath shorter than its leaf, crowned with a short obtuse membranous li- gule. Joints three, smooth, situated low down the stem. Leaves, as well as the whole plant, glaucous, smooth, and polished; upper leaf broader than the radical ones; hairy on the inner surface; radical leaves rigid, linear, acute, and involute. Inflorescence spiked. Spike about one-third the length of the stem, with the rachis perfectly smooth. Spikelets of an oval form, of four or five awnless florets; sessile, ar- ranged alternately in two rows on the zig-zag rachis. Calyx of two nearly equal obtuse glumes, (Fig 1), of an oblong form, perfectly smooth, with six prominent ribs, the dorsal or largest rib running very much to a side, (Fig. 4.) Florets of two palee (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret about equal in length to the ca- lyx, of an oval form, perfectly smooth and polished, five-ribbed, of which the dorsal rib occasionally extends slightly beyond the summit. Inner palea rather shorter than outer palea, with two green margin- al ribs minutely toothed. Obs.— Triticum junceum has been occasionally confounded with glaucous varieties of T'riticum repens, but is readily distinguished in the rachis being perfectly smooth ; glwmes smooth and obtuse ; the spikelets not easily detached without breaking the rachis ;—whereas in Triticum repens the rachis is rough ; glumes acute and roughish on the upper part of the central rib ; the spikelets very easily detached without the rachis breaking. (See Plate LXII.) * Triticum junceum, Linn., Koch, Smith, Hooker, Lindley, Greville. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 139 This grass is very seldom eaten by any description of cattle. It is, however, of great use along the coast where it naturally grows, as it assists in binding the loose sand on the sea shore. It is frequent on the sandy shores throughout Scotland, England, and Ireland: also a native. of Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, Spain, Portu- gal, Italy, Russia, North Africa, and West Asia. It has not been discovered in America. Flowers in the first week of July, and ripens its seed about the middle of August. 92. ELYMUS ARENARIUS. * Upright Sea Lime-Grass. Specific Characters.—F lorets hairy. Lowermost floret not longer than the calyx. (Plate LXIV.) Description.—It grows from two to five feet high. The root is per- ennial, extensively creeping. Stem erect, round, smooth, and fine- ly striated, bearing four or five leaves with smooth striated sheaths, the upper sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with a short ob- tuse ligule. Joints smooth, the first and second remote. eaves long, narrow, hard, and rigid, very glaucous, spinous, pointed, folded or rolled in, strongly grooved, quite smooth behind, rough on the inner surface. Inflorescence spiked, dense. Spike from four to nine or more inches long, and about half an inch wide, erect, glaucous; rachis smooth, toothed alternately on each side, and flattened just above. Spikelets of three or four awnless florets (Fig. 3); arranged in pairs on each tooth of the rachis. Calyz of two parallel narrow, acute, near- ly equal glumes, about three-ribbed, more or less hairy or woolly (Fig. 1.) Florets of two palee (Fig. 2); the outer palea of lowermost floret equal in length to the calyx, acute, five-ribbed, hairy. Inner palea with two green marginal ribs, delicately fringed ; the summit mostly cloven. Pedicle of second floret hairy on one side. Nectary of two acute hairy scales (Fig 4.) Ovarium hairy (Fig. 5.) Stigmas fea- thery. Styles short, distinct. Filaments capillary. Anthers forked at each end. Obs.—This grass at first sight very much resembles Ammophila arundinacea, (Plate VIII.) but is readily distinguished by the ligule * Elymus arenarius, Linn., Koch, Hooker, Lindley, Smith, Withering, Knapp. 140 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. being very short and obtuse ; spikelets without footstalks, and of three or four florets ;—whereas in A. arundinacea the ligule is very long and pointed ; spzkelets with footstalks and of only one floret. This grass, says Mr Sinclair, may justly be considered as the su- gar cane of Britain, as it is remarkable for the large quantity of sac- charine matter it contains. It must necessarily render the hay made from this grass very nutritious, particularly when cut into chaff and mixed with corn or common hay. It grows naturally on the drifted sands of the sea-coast, where it is of great value in arresting and collecting the spreading of the loose sand, forming an effectual barrier to repel the encroachments of the sea. It is a frequent grass along some parts of the sandy shores of Scotland and Ireland. In England it occurs ‘along the coast of Northumberland, Durham, Cumberland, Lincoln, Carnarvon, Cardigan, Norfolk, Dor- set, and Devon; also a native of Lapland, Norway, Sweden, Ger- many, France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Iceland, and British America. It has not been discovered in the United States. Flowers in the second week of July, and ripens its seed about the end of August. 93. LoLIuM TEMULENTUM. Bearded Rye-Grass. Specific Characters.—F lorets awned. Glume longer than the spikelet. (Plate LXIV.) Description.—It grows to the height of two feet. The root is an- nual, fibrous. Stem round, smooth, (sometimes roughish), bearing four leaves with smooth striated sheaths ; the upper sheath shorter than its leaf, crowned with a short obtuse ligule. Joints four, smooth. Leaves flat, lanceolate, acute, rough on both surfaces, except at the base of the under surface ; the margins minutely toothed. Inflores- cence spiked. Spike erect, about a span long. Sprkelets sessile, ar- ranged alternately in two rows on the ziz-zag rough rachis, of four or five awned florets. Calyx of one glume, (sometimes accompanied with a very short inner glume), long and narrow, with eight ribs, * Lolium temulentum, Linn., Koch, Smith, Hooker Lindley. ? ? ~ GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 141 five of which are rather indistinctly seen (Fig. 1): longer than the spikelet, smooth, and somewhat roughish at the edges. Florets of two palee (Fig. 2); the outer palea of lowermost floret seven-ribbed, the marginal ribs the broadest ; bifid at the summit, and furnished with a white rough azn, rather more than half the length of the palea (oc- casionally the awn is much longer), arising immediately behind the bifid extremity. Inner palea with two green marginal ribs, minute- ly fringed. Seeds elliptical, somewhat flattened. Obs.— Lolium temulentum differs from Lolium perenne, inthe glume being longer than the spikelet, and the outer palea furnished with a delicate awn ;—whereas in L. perenne, the glume is shorter than the spikelet, and the florets have no awn. This grass is found principally in cultivated fields, especially among corn, where it is a noxious weed. The seeds, it is said, when eaten produce vomiting, purging, violent colic, and death; and Linneus states that the seeds when mixed with bread produce but little effect unless when eaten hot; but if malted with barley, the ale soon occa- sions intoxication. It is occasionally found in Scotland and Ireland, but more frequent- ly in England, especially in the counties of Northumberland, Durham, York, Notts, Anglesea, Carnarvon, Worcester, Beds, Cambridge, Suffolk, Essex, Kent, Sussex, and Devon; also a native of Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, Italy, North Africa, Japan, South Ame- rica and the United States. Flowers in the first week of July, and ripens its seed in the begin- ning of August. 94, LOLIUM PERENNE.* Rye-Grass. Specific Characters.—F lorets not awned. Glume shorter than the spikelet. (Plate LXV.) Description.—It grows from fifteen inches to two feet high. The root is perennial, fibrous. Stem erect, round, smooth, and finely striated, bearing six or seven leaves with smooth striated sheaths ; * Lolium perenne, Linn. Hooker, Smith, Lindley, Greville, Koch. 142 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. the upper sheath longer than its leaf, crowned with a short obtuse ligule ; the lower sheaths shorter than their leaves. Joints four or five, smooth, often purplish, the first and second rather remote. Leaves dark-green, lanceolate, acute, flat, smooth on the outer sur- face, and roughish on the inner. Inflorescence spiked. Spike com- pressed, erect or slightly curved, about one-third the length of the stem; rachissmooth. Spzkelets sessile, arranged on the rachis alter- nately in two rows ; of six to twelve awnless florets. Calyx of one glume (Fig. 1) of an oblong-lanceolate form, smooth, and five-rib- bed ; situated on the outer side, and shorter than the spikelet. FJo- rets of two palee, (Fig. 2), the outer palea of lowermost floret shorter than the glume, smooth, /ive-ribbed, membranous, and entire at the summit. Inner palea \inear-lanceolate, equal in length to the outer palea, with two green marginal ribs delicately fringed. Filaments slender, shorter than the palea. Anthers cloven at each end. Germen obtuse. Styles very short. Stigmas feathery along the upper side. Seed elliptic-oblong, channeled in front. Obs. racemosum, a frequent variety, with the spikelets pedunculated. (Plate LXV.) angustifolium, a tall and slender variety, with long nar- row leaves. tenue, asmall starved variety, with the spikelets of three or four florets. Italicum, (Italian rye-grass, Plate LXV.) This variety is an exotic introduced into this country about ten years ago by Mr Lawson, and is now becoming a very frequent grass in the neighbour- hood of Edinburgh, as well as throughout the cultivated districts of Scotland. It differs from Lolium perenne, in the florets having long slender awns ; and from Lolium temulentum, in the glumes being shorter than the spikelets. It is a most valuable grass, well deserving the attention of agriculturists, as producing a large produce of her- bage early in spring, which horses, cows, and sheep are remarkably fond of, and will bear cutting three times during the season, especial- ly when cultivated in moist rich soils or irrigated meadows. The only disadvantage that this grass possesses is, that it does not seem to be strictly a perennial. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 143 Of Lolium perenne there are a great number of varieties known to farmers by various appellations; all more or less valuable for agri- cultural purposes, viz. Slender rye-grass, Broad spiked rye-grass, Pacey’s rye-grass, Russell's grass, Whitworth’s grass, Stichney’s grass, Panicled rye-grass, Double-flowered rye-grass, Viviparous rye- grass, besides a great number of others, amounting to at least seventy varieties. Mr Sinclair states, that there has been much diffe- rence of opinion respecting the merits and comparative value of rye- grass. It produces an abundance of seed, which is easily collected, and readily vegetates on most kinds of soils, under circumstances of different management. It soon arrives at perfection, and produces in its first years of growth a good supply of early herbage, which is much liked by cattle: but the after-crop of rye-grass is very inconsi- derable, and the plant impoverishes the soil in a high degree, if the culms, which are invariably left untouched by cattle, are not cut be- fore the seed advances towards perfection. When this is neglected, the field after midsummer exhibits only a brown surface of withered straws. For permanent pasture, the produce and nutritive powers of the rye-grass, compared with those of the cock’s-foot grass, (Dactylis glomerata), are inferior nearly in the proportion of five to eighteen ; and inferior to the meadow fox-tail (Alopecurus pratensis) in the pro- portion of five to twelve; and inferior to the meadow fescue (Buce- tum pratense) as five to seventeen. The rye-grass is but a short-lived plant, seldom continuing more than six years in possession of the soil, but is continued by its property of ripening an abundance of seed, which is but little molested by birds, and suffered to fall and vegetate among the root-leaves of the permanent pasture-grasses. It is only within these last forty or fifty years that other species of gras- ses have been tried as a substitute for the rye-grass in forming artifi- cial pastures, it having been the favourite grass with most farmers from the time of its first cultivation in 1674 to the present period. The rye-grass, when not more than three years old, flowers in the second week of June, and ripens its seed in about twenty-five days after: as the plants become older they flower much later, sometimes so late as the beginning of August. It is a very common grass throughout the whole of Britain ; also a native of Lapland, Norway, 144 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. Sweden, Germany, France, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland, Italy, Russia, North of Africa, and West of Asia. It occurs also in the United States, but is stated to have been introduced from Europe. Its limit of altitude seems to be about 1000 feet above the sea. GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 145 The following new species of grass was sent me by Professor Bal- four after the preceding sheets had passed through the press :— Poa Batrourt. * St. John’s Meadow-Grass. Specific Characters.—F lorets slightly webbed. Ligule prominent, obtuse. Upper leaf nearly as long as its sheath. Outer palea five- ribbed. Stem compressed. Description.—It grows from three to fifteen inches high. The root is perennial, creeping. Stem erect, compressed, furnished with a few minute spicula, with their points directed upwards, producing a slight roughness to the touch; bearing three or four leaves, with scarcely smooth sheaths; the upper sheath a very little longer than its leaf, crowned with a prominent, obtuse ligule (Fig. 5); second sheath shorter than its leaf, covering the upper joint. Joints three, situated on the lower third of the stem. Leaves confined to the lower part, leaving nearly two-thirds of the stem naked ; all the leaves about equal lengths, short, lanceolate, roughish on the upper surface and edges, smooth behind. Inflorescence simple or compound panicled. Panicle erect, from one to three inches long, spreading when luxuriant ; the branches slender, rough, the lower ones mostly in pairs. Spikelets erect, ovate, of three awnless florets, the summit of the lowermost floret on a level with the apex of the large glume of the calyx; the three or four uppermost spikelets arising from the rachis, the lower ones on lateral branches. Calyx of two unequal acute glumes (Fig. 1), three-ribbed, the dor- sal rib minutely toothed on the upper third, margins membranous. Florets of two palez, (Fig. 2); the outer palea of lowermost floret equal in length to the large glume of the calyx, five-ribbed, the rib on each side of the dorsal rib not hairy, and rather indistinct, (unless the palea be opened, and held between the lens and light); lower half of the dorsal and marginal ribs hairy ; base of the two lowermost flo- rets furnished with three or four long silky convoluted hairs, which seem but slightly attached to the calyx. nner palea about equal in length to the outer palea, with two green marginal ribs minutely * Poa Balfouri, Parnell,—so named in honour of Dr Balfour, Professor of Botany in the University of Glasgow. K 146 GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. fringed. Pedicle of second floret slightly hairy. Filaments three. Anthers notched at each extremity. Ovarium obovate. Styles two, distinct. Stigmas feathery. Scales acute, notched ; (Fig. 6.) rigida.—A. short stout variety from three to five inches high, with a short simple panicle of few spikelets. Found in exposed situations at an elevation of 2500 feet above the sea. extensa.—A. tall and slender variety, growing from eight to twelve inches in height, with a simple panicle of few spike- lets. Found at an elevation of about 2000 feet above the sea. Obs.—This grass is closely allied to Poa nemoralis, but differs from it in the ligule of the upper sheath bemg prominent ; wpper leaf scarcely as long as its sheath; all the joints situated on the lower third of the stem, and covered by the sheaths; stem slightly roughish ;—where- as in P. nemoralis the ligule is very short; upper leaf as long and often longer than its sheath; upper joint situated not below the cen- tre of the stem, and not covered by the second sheath ; stem smooth. (Plate XXXVI.) From Poa montana, in the florets being webbed ; upper joint si- tuated on the lower third of the stem ; lower floret equal in length to the large glume of the calyx ;—whereas in P. montana the florets are not in the slightest degree webbed; upper joint situated about half- way up the stem ; lower floret shorter than the large glume; the pa- nicle longer and more slender, of fewer spikelets on longer foot-stalks ; the deaves more taper-pointed. (Plate XX XIX.) From Poa polynoda, in the florets being webbed ; joints not exceed- ing three in number, situated on the lower third of the stem; wpper joint covered by the second sheath ;—whereas in P. polynoda the flo- rets are not webbed ; joints six or seven in number ; upper joint si- tuated above the centre of the stem, and not covered by the second sheath. (Plate XX XIX.) From Poa cesia, in the florets being webbed ; lower floret equal in length to the large glume of the calyx ;—whereas in P. cesia the flo- rets are not webbed, and the lower floret is longer than the large glume of the calyx; the spzkelets are larger, and the glumes of the calyx nearly equal. (Plate XL.) From Poa compressa, in the outer palea being five-ribbed ; spikelets GRASSES OF SCOTLAND. 147 of three florets; joints three, confined to the lower third of the stem . —whereas in P. compressa the outer palea is but three-ribbed ; spike- lets of five to seven florets; joints usually five in number, the upper one situated about the centre of the stem. (Plate XXX VIL) From Poa pratensis, in the florets being but slightly webbed ;_ stem very much compressed and slightly roughish to the touch ; upper leaf avery little shorter than its sheath; spikelets of three florets ;—-whereas in P. pratensis the florets are copiously webbed, suspending the calyx by their silky hairs ; stem smooth and round, (except in variety plani- culmis, in which the stem is slightly compressed); upper leaf much -shorter than its sheath ; spikelets usually of five florets. (Plate XX XI.) Poa Balfouri is found on Ben Voirlich, Perthshire; also on the Clova mountains, Forfar, growing on micaceous soil, at an elevation of between 2000 to 2500 feet above the sea. Sheep seldom eat this grass, as they give a preference to the Festuca ovina, which grows in abundance in the same situations. Flowers in the first week of July, and ripens its seed in August. INDEX OF THE LATEeNn NAM ES: Agrostis triaristatus - pia 32 Agrostis vulgaris 33 —— —— pumila 34 —— —— aristata 34 Agrostis alba : 35 — stolonifera 35 —— —— palustris 2 35 Agrostis sislon ifera 35 Agrostis canina “ 36 —_ alpina 37 Agrostis Spica Venti 39 Alopecurus agrestis 10 Alopecurus pratensis 11 Alopecurus ovatus 13 Alopecurus alpinus 2 é 13 Alopecurus geniculatus = 7 l4 Alopecurus fulvis - ‘ 16 Alopecurus monspeliensis : 32 Airochloa cristata : < t4 Aira cristata 44 Aira cerulea 46 Aira aquatica 47 Aira cespitosa 52 — vivipera A 53 Aira alpina 53 Aira flexuosa 55 Aira caryophyllea 56 Aira precox : 57 Ammopbhila arundinacea Z 25 Ammophila arenaria - ; : 25 Anemagrostis Spica Venti. 7 39 Anthoxanthum odoratum . : 23 Arrhenatherum elatior 58 Arrhenatherum avenaceum . 58 —— bulbosum 59 Arundo arenaria 25 Arundo Epigegos 38 Arundo stricta : 37 Arundo calamagrostis . 38 Arundo phragmites 69 Avena strigosa 60 Avena fatua Z 61 Avena pratensis 122 Avena pubescens - > . . 124 Avena flavescens - : . 126 Brachypodium sylvaticum . . 132 Briza media Bromus giganteus Bromus mollis Bromus racemosus Bromus secalinus yelutinus Bromus arvensis Bromus sterilis Bromus diandrus Bromus madritensis Bromus erectus hirsutus Bromus asper Bromus cristatus Bucetum loliaceum Bucetum pratense Bucetum elatior Bucetum giganteum Calamagrostis stricta Calamagrostis Epigegos Catabrosa aquatica Catopodium loliaceum Cynosurus cristatus Cy ynosurus echinatus Dactylis glomerata Deschampsia ceespitosa Elymus arenarius Festuca decumbens Festuca distans Festuca thalassia Festuca rigida Festuca calamaria Festuca jluitans Festuca loliacea Festuca pratensis Festuca elatior Festuca gigantea Festuca bromoides —— nana Festuca sciuroides Festuca ovina —— —— hirsuta variegatum . 150 Festuca ovina vivipara angustifolia cesia Festuca duriuscula hirsuta —— —— filiformis arenaria —— —— humilis rubra Festuca sylvatica Glyceria distans Glyceria maritima Glyceria procumbens Glyceria rigida Glyceria aquatica Glyceria fluitans Hierochloe odorata Hierochloe borealis Holcus lanatus Holeus mollis biaristatus parviflorus Holcus avenaceus Hordeum murinum Hordeum maritimum Hordeum pratense Hordewm nodosum Hydrochloa aquatica Koeleria cristata Lepturus incurvata Lolium temulentum Lolium perenne racemosum angustifolium tenue . —— —— Italicum Melica uniflora Melica nutans Melica cerulea Milium effusum Molinia depauperata Molinia cerulea Nardus stricta Ophiurus incurvatus Phalaris arenaria Phalaris alpina Phalaris arundinacea Phalaris canariensis Phleum pratense Phleum alpinum Phleum arenarium Phleum Michelii Phragmites communis - INDEX. 129 129 129 130 131 131 131 131 131 132 92 93 95 97 101 102 Poa Balfouri Poa decumbens Poa pratensis ; planiculmis —— —— umbrosa arida —— —— retroflexa —— — muralis arenaria Poa trivialis parviflora Poa nemoralis : angustifolia Poa compressa Poa alpina F Poa laxa flexuosa Poa polynoda Poa montana : Poa nemoralis montana Poa cesia Poa glauca Poa annua serica . Poa retroflexa Poa distans Poa maritima Poa procumbens . Poa rigida Poa loliacea Poa sylvatica Poa aquatica Poa fluitans : Polypogon monspeliensis Rottbollia incurvata filiformis Sesleria cxrulea Sclerochloa procumbens Selerochloa rigida Shedonorus sylvaticus Shedonorus pratensis Shedonorus elatior Trichodewm caninum Triodia decumbens Trisetum pratense longifolium . latifolium Trisetum pubescens Trisetum flavescens Triticum loliaceum Triticum sylvaticum + Triticum cristatum Triticum caninum Triticum repens aristatum Triticum junceum Vulpia bromoides - Page 145 : : 7 Alpine meadow-grass Alpine fox-tail grass Alpine cat’s-tail grass Annual meadow-grass Annual beard-grass Barren brome-grass Barren fescue-grass Bearded rye-grass Bearded wheat-grass Blue moor-grass Brown bent-grass Bristle-pointed oat Cat’s-tail grass Common reed Common quaking-grass Crested dog’s-tail grass Crested hair-grass Crested wheat-grass Creeping wheat-grass Creeping soft-grass Creeping sea meadow-grass Downy oat-grass Early hair-grass Fine bent-grass Flat-stalked meadow-grass Floating meadow-grass Floating fox-tail grass Glaucous meadow-grass Hard fescue-grass Hard sea-grass Hard meadow-grass Heath-grass - - Holy-grass Mat-grass Manured canary-grass Marsh bent-grass Meadow fox-tail grass Meadow barley Meadow soft-grass Meadow fescue-grass INDEX OF THE ENGLISH NAMES. Michelian cat’s-tail grass Mountain melic-grass Mountain meadow-grass Narrow-leaved oat-grass Oat-like soft-grass < Orange-spiked fox-tail grass Procumbent sea meadow-grass Purple melic-grass : Reed canary-grass Reed meadow-grass Reflexed meadow-grass Rough dog’s-tail grass Rough cock’s-foot grass Rough-stalked meadow-grass Rye-grass : Sea cat’s-tail grass Sea reed Sea barley Sea wheat-grass Sheep’s fescue-grass Silky bent-grass Silver hair-grass Silicious meadow-grass Slender fox-tail grass Slender wheat-grass Slender fescue-grass Small close-reed : Smooth alpine hair-grass Smooth-stalked meadow-grass Smooth brome-grass Smooth rye brome-grass Soft brome-grass Spiked meadow-grass Spreading millet-grass Sweet-scented vernal-grass Tall fescue-grass Tall- bearded fescue-grass Tawny melic-grass Taper field brome-grass Tufted hair-grass Timothy grass 114 152 Upright annual brome-grass Upright brome-grass Upright sea lime-grass Wall barley ; 4 Water hair-grass Wavy mountain-grass Wavy meadow-grass PRINTED BY JOHN STARK, OLD ASSEMBLY CLOSE, INDEX. Page 117 1 19 139 28 47 55 83 Wild oat Wood reed Wood melic-grass Wood meadow-grass Wood-reed meadow-grass Wood brome-grass Yellow oat-grass EDINBURGH: a ow YORK ~OTAN c 4 F rc AL an * ao oe wate = JOS puitishea by W% Blackwood & Sons, Edinburgh London - er @ sb od, y Lauer oy ” * i—* ; t of ¢ WW - i Oe a oer eee eee Ae | & 7 wi iP al « ee). ee, aS OP PW er a ek he ee hi ae ea a re Te re / Rotthelia tnarvala Nardus stricta Printed: by ZGellatly. R Parnell WD. dat et sauip! Published by W™ Blackwood xSans,Edinburgh &Eondan . R Parnell MD. dealt & saslp? Published by W= Blackwood &Sans_Edipbargh &Eondan - . — y faa A SIN SSS SSS PLATE IV _Alopecurus alyais Alopecurius pratensts Pronted: by IGeliatly- R. Parnell MD. dat ct saslp* Published by “™ Blackwood xSans, Edinburgh &Eondan . . . i eet ae) whe Ce 5 Brea egies eee ah ea Ya i 4 = Ss Fulvus Alepen Ls a Alopertri Parnell MD. dealt saig* Printed, by Gellatis- by W™ Blackwood *Sa@s_Edtibarsh £iendiee . Edmburgh &Eondan - - by W™ Bleckwood k Sas. = 4 SS AA wt EA Wah Ceaiy Sa Nath witty se i : \¥ ; « : < q “ 9 3 : i ; i ; i | ih if | mt Hy ii Wil Mt i | - \ rc Phiaom. Micheii Philaam arenarion 2. Parnell MD. dat & sculp? Proved by LGeliatly. Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons Edinburgh & London . Anthevcantagn edoria Ammophila arundmaced R. Parnell. WD dade ct. sculpt Fronted. by IGellati§. Published br W™ Blackwood kSans_Edinturgh & Landen . : we 5 _ Pablished by W™ Blackwood x Sans.£dimburgh & London - _-R Parnell LD. deit ct. saulpt s 4 . ek i ae f, ot ; - (Age Shortie: - a Ae SPRUE? Nr ree Wn vem WOE SAL asle Sa = i Hordaam pratense Palypogon monspeliensis Printed by ZGelb.uis R.Parrel MD. dat & sap? Poblished. by W™ Blackwood & Sons, Edimburgh xEondon . ‘ ; , ' ' F Lie : ier iN mtg 2 UCD cheat ac ititihatd Me”, iia rine MP DU, wig Li \ ; ‘ ' , z ‘ \ Pr Ate ‘ s r F i , é wath, nA a ie i r] split eth Jk Moab ee PLATE XH Printed: by IGellatt. R. Parnell MD. deat et sadpt Pablshed by W™ Blackwood &Sons,Ediburgh &London . Parnell WD) -delt eb sculpt PLATE XIV — stolonitera’ —— —— palustris Published by W™ Blackwood Sons,Edinburgh & London . Fronted: by ZGellatly. wl is rr ' ‘ , | Af ty nit Way PLATE V ¥ (2 ¥ if vs dn SS 2 S \ —_— tH —= } + (| \ a a = ; Z bf 2 Agrostis. caTana MD. dalt et sculpt Provted, by Gellatly. Published by W™ Blackwood k Sons,Edimburgh &London . Calamagrostis stricta Calamagrosts Epigegos Parnell. MD dit et scalp? } ‘ Published by W™ Blackwood &5ans Edinburgh t London - Fronted: by T6ellatty tamer . i at ae phate’. aaa oh Anemagrostis spica veriti Parnell MD. deit et scalp? Printed. by IGellatip. . : a Published by W™ Blackwood x Sens Edinburgh & London by q fa} Wy sie sabta ee * # as tr Printed. by Gellatly, ‘ Blackwood \ Sons, Edinburgh & Londan . i Published by w™ i] uniflora. Rfarneli MD. deit. ct saript 1) -* +s + rs PLATE XIX Molinea depauperata Atrochloa cristata. Frovted, by IGelluitsy. R. Parnell MD. delt ct sculpt Published by W Blackwood & Sons,Ediburgh &London . C—O « ‘bo 3 A = al Hi) Published by W Slackwood & Sans, Edinburgh tEonfian - LR. Parnedli UD. det & salpt Holas lanatis Published by W™ Blackwood x Sons, Edinburgh &Londou . Parnell WD. dat et sadpt Published by W™ Blackwood x Sons.Edimburgh & London - way Pir —. - ie ' At hie | ARs : ] ? i ‘ oy . iy me ee a 2 ee Aira alpina: ee R. Parnell MD. delt et sadp* Published by W? Blackwood &SansEdinburgh & London - Men Gy Os, in VA NYS ‘ah Sale ‘i oar } io : : Prblishead by W" Blackwood & Sons, Edinburgh &London - . Be asd OA a? <5 Proved by TGellatly. a R. Parnell MD. dealt sap? Poblished_ by W™ Blackwood. x Sons, Edimburgh & London . — ae Avena sirigosa Published by W" Blackwood &Sons, Edinburgh & London re as ee 4 ee TIA UO pete , y i Ls of F we Miss y Pe ‘i aes RParneli MD. dat et*sadp? Avena fatua Sesleria corutlea Printed, by IGeltatly. published by W? Blackwood. x Sons. Edinburgh & Londou . : b Afi ety ies As SMD. VR aA ane > +! ; ‘ ; : ; ‘ _ < \ : ; VORA REO NE acl DUAN IEE tae ities aie bile : rs ) Te ' nad, ok Laake r + . ie ae oh ee ae ) = i Tae ae vishal ane eA ba aa Pee tae Ter , Bis Bt ha fie a Sa == . Cynosurus cristatus CYNOSUTUS echinatus R tarnell WDodalt & sap. Printed, by IGellatit?. Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons, Edinburgh & London . ‘ + % - yt ; . ‘ : » = , ee Toa eT er ; Ms eye y x“ } Bett et Nick Det ay *) eo nist Be . , Pia VE > a‘ Soe j “ee ® oe | i. in ace _ vo Wo ttary ned Bd " vise Peers en ere i ee wae eer eee - R. Parnell MD. delt: ct; sculpt Published. by W™ Blackwood Sous, Edinburgh & London Priza media 1 od by W? Blackwood. x Sans, Edinburgh & London Sona) i era ays * * obhsh 3. jee <4. ‘ r ; ; r i : f cee wa > oe i re a. a7 | tr Es Re SS - ‘4 ai - av My , tebe. ae : : wh Wai Ses! a re hel . ; is Toe ne 1 Mee pista pera ee ar aaa - dentin ental Se ante Hierochiloe borealis R Pane MD. dat & satipt Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London - ee ey qa! ee * ~ os wal “See — va - * Pe) ag one a f- 7 f . i 7 * - « Ia ‘ I . . - i : ; 2 Pte > - * < oe =e le | ; YP 8) aetna ies me ie = \ 1 - j 5 a 4 ‘4 ete bs Leal ae dete vu } Veip Py) Sale “ts ag ih i) pai : At Fae Z -— — piantculmis “a8 Published hy W™ 1 * ~ —— —— umbrosa. Proved by TGellathy. L od & Sons, Edinburgh &Lontim . Printed by IGellatls. R Parnell MD. det sadp* Published by W™ Blackwood X Sans. Edinburgh & London . i I ; by W Blackwood xs Published by W* Blackwood se saus, Edinburgh &londan _- RParrell UD. dat & sadgt , 3 + ; ee : ‘ = ° es ’ of E: “ - ae “ ie yt a © az i ; tnd se eon ar Ta eene sa iced ati my i : he Ot ieee Bi Oe Leet Rose Pe suid ak gla 4 at | ek aa Printed. by Gellatly. - aby W™ Blackwood sous Edinburgh &Lendon . . ’ ‘ Pontes aan ‘ h ae ; $3 PG Sy + Re een ee, a id Rays a aT ® . s ee aa er eo) Pat Published by W" Blackwood &Sous,Ediburgh & Londen . \ an ‘ a ee £ 0 4 Sais ae abe iad Poe er es le . Ore Paes. ,, ve me ? LA) Lt é rt “R- ge ewes ala te da a) ‘e 2 ieee 'Aee* SE i ats a lay, i). Published by W™ Blackwood Sons _Eéiburgh tLondan , ra oe i ; ; - sadn di iy Galanin ered NN aol L sail pall a - 4 ia Bite heath 1 ok i eal ala! oe Parnell MD. dealt & yadp? ’ Prunted. hy Gellatly. Published hy W™ Blackwood Sons. Edmburgh &London . : ‘ PED Se Poa proaumbens* Published by W Blackwood % Sans, Edinburgh iondan. _ pe det a hn } fa a at oe" Fae Ar fy Soe AS xs = ae $ SS & : Published by W™ Biackweod & Sons, Edinburgh &Eondan . _ PLATE ILV ~ SN ; SN a) SQ SN Ra =. oc AQ, “Vg ADS Sy % , ZS SS Bucetum lotiaceum ~ Prunted by FGeliatly. R.Parnell MD. delt & sadp? Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons, Edinburgh & London . a : ——— aibgee Bucetum. datios Printed. by IGellatly. Published by W" Blackwood x Sous, Edinburgh London - f S & 8 S ) Proud. by IGellatly. | Bromus racentosus ae A ee a ee! io sain 7 S eT a ce ir Hy —s Sys, ey ps (Bromus arvensis Printed. by Liellathy. — Published by W™ Blackwood X Sons, Edinburgh &Sondem.. y _ 4 Pm}, a. Ss ve an SOS patie Tee a i Ve Oe L ares ' hh PLATE ae K romus drandrus Bromus sterttis Printed, by Jcellatly. R. Parnell MD. elt. cb salpt Pablshed by W™ Blackwood x Sons, Edmburgh & London . eet ree } r . a XX i re ‘ é ‘ i y ‘ Ck as s it . wa). uf: a ae eA Sen, @ | pa ella ai a te ah F SE MOF of, tra Rae FUR bm Pa ee ata ee ; Visi’ afor St cain iil ms i Published by W™ Blackwood k Sons Edinburgh & Londen - Printed by TGelliathe. Published by Wi" Blackwood & Sons, Edinburgh & London . i Aad ae Pst ‘ a th © J 4 ~ -— — ‘ * 2 " , : : Aa, ry ; “ # af + a : P A ‘¢ Mtl } hn pact! Re .) ae Ue : sek ey OAS eh ab iat yon Mh Be hice) ' ve We 1 LO ide eh ie Be hn) ne etd eis 2 His i cate Ve Published by W" Rlackwood Sous, Edinburgh &Londan , Sey? . ou Prowed by IGelatly. R Parnell MED. dealt. et, scalp? Published by Ww Blackwood & Sons, Edinburgh & Londan . t + - hirsuta Festuca, durtusculiv R.Parndl MD. dat a-sadpt ~- Pronted. by IGellatty. Pubtished. by W™ Blackwood X Sons, Edinburgh & London ‘sang 7 - - \ 2 ia oe ae a ee : z ‘ . - a © = ‘ . 7 : : 2 v « —_ a a . 7) a he : ™ ' wi gg, Sena 3 : ¥ J) nF » a : 2 4. = + : - A a - Procted. by Gellatly. —— —— arenarii Published_by WW" Blackwood x Sons, Edinburgh & Londo - ree * © —_—T Sy, > F 7 ” if Wy, Ad 5. re a | ‘ a - y wef es i ‘ i Be. ; , ah . ’ “a % << , : e * - < 1) / ‘ eo a i . ‘ i . fr ‘ ‘y eh se wae eae ae eee ¥ R Parnell MD. delt et. scalp od & Sons. Edinburgh & London . Pablished by W™ Blackwo i Pabtished by WP Blackwood kSons,Edinbucgh London - . 7 = * =" = ‘ i mS y > iS hd ry Be ea hie & ho} ae 3 5 j | : : ; On aie Oe SE’ Vy! .) oe + ihn ea dit Bt eet hte yet LW fun fogeegah ahs: : , f fy F 4 ~ " sh oe sn) ee hott bine & be Be se a mye te Lolium termuentum . petted hy We Mlackorvon Xsan bang Cann > -. SS ae if ar ; i & ~ be ; ian a fs, 1 ' ' , i + ~ , . fh ad uJ j , 7 a ' i 4 .* ; : , 4 ‘ ’ 4 My ay ; ‘ r * r 5 J 1 S , ~ _ ‘ vd ~ A ‘ * . ‘ ' ‘ 5 ’ ft #1 ; : - / Bsa, ye ; why ANNE al ee cmebesg SENS WB cota a' s rh Madi Na Rbk eles deb. Oe, iE Saag nl ee Shae Petri oS PS AS Sis” 4 \ - t ¢ ' ” ‘ i i t ‘ f t i ‘ he 4% 4 v é a 7] Pe ’ mnieuyseay. Uan.tgcy 4% ¥ Loliim perenne R Parnell MD. dat & saulpt ; Published by W™ Blackwood Xx Sons, Edinburgh & London - -~ = i DAME Ey) ek Me: Published by W% Blackwood X Sans, famburdh & London - di Be . % > Oe Cee Lee — - = > » ol Ro eg eet ht , ‘ ‘ Meche EP Np a AV Ag Reh i ok ti bast Nal eI es ira Vee 154 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. EcHINOCHLOA CRUS-GALLI. Loose Panich-Grass. Plate LXVII. Specific Character.—Sheaths smooth. Description.—Root annual, fibrous, producing several stems from one to two feet in length. Stems erect, smooth, hollow, and striated, bearing three or four leaves with smooth, striated sheaths; the up- per sheath situated generally close under the panicle, inflated and about equal in length to its ieaf. Ligule wanting, a whitish conical tmaark in place of it. Joints usually three, the upper situated above the middle of the stem, and mostly but not invariably covered by the second sheath. Leaves broad, pointed, frequently rough on the in- ner surface, smooth behind, the margins whitish and strongly tooth- ed; the central rib very conspicuous, especially on the lower half. Inflorescence compound panicled, close, secund, the branches rough, rachis angular. Spikelets nearly sessile, arranged in clusters, mostly of threes, and at the base of each arise two or three long, white, smooth hairs or bristles; each spikelet composed of two glumes and two florets, one of the florets neutral. Glumes very unequal, the outer much the smaller, not one-fifth the size of the inner glume; in- ner glume three-ribbed, furnished with bristles, terminating in an awn very various in length. Lowermost floret barren, of two flattish palez, the outer three-ribbed, covered with bristles and tipped with a rough awn, which is frequently abortive; inner palea about the length of the outer, very thin and transparent, placed close to the back of the inner palea of the second floret. Second or upper floret fertile, of two palez, the outer smooth, polished, tipped with a little point, which is occasionally downy; inner palea flattish, equal in length to the outer, folded at the margins and terminating in a small roughish point. Styles two, long and smooth, arising from the sum- mit of the ovarium. Stigmas short and feathery. Filaments three, slender. Anthers short, cloven at each extremity. Echinochloa Crus-galli, Beauy., Babington. Panicum Crus-galli, Linn,, Smith, Hooker, Lindley, Koch. Oplismenus Crus-galli, Kunth. PLATE LXVIL * RParnedt.MD deb: et scuip® =. Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. *. ae — GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 155 Obs.—This species is readily distinguished from every other Bri- tish grass, by the sheaths having no ligules, and the spikelets having long smooth hairs or bristles at their base. (See Fig. 2.) This is a strong coarse grass, found in moist arable land, but of no agricultural use. - It is very rarely met with in Britain, having been gathered only in a few instances in the counties of Hants and Surrey; and although it has been placed among our British plants I do not consider it as indigenous to this country. It is a native of Norway, Sweden, France, Belgium, Holland, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, North Africa, and the United States. Flowers in August, and ripens its seed in the end of September. The accompanying figure was taken from a specimen gathered in Surrey. Explanation of Plate LXVII. Echinochloa Crus-galli, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet expanded showing the two glumes and two florets with three) long hairs at the base. 2. Two very unequal glumes with three long hairs at the base. 3. Lowermost floret showing the two palez, the outer with a long awn. . Upper floret showing both palez pointed or shortly awned, ~- 5. Ovarium, pistils, and stamens. Magnified, 156 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. SETARIA VIRIDIS. Evect Bristle-Grass. Plate LX VIII, Specifie Character.—Involucral bristles with erect teeth. Description.—Root annual, fibrous, producing stems from three to eighteen inches in length. Stems erect, hollow, mostly branched be- low, rough above, bearing four or five leaves with smooth striated sheaths, the upper sheath shorter than its leaf. Zigule of upper sheath short, blunt, fringed, the length about equal to one-third of the breadth. Joints usually four, the upper situated rather below the centre of the stem, and frequently covered by the second sheath. Leaves flat, lanceolate, rough, especially on the margins. Inflores- cence simple panicled, the branches very short, the rachis hairy. Spikelets dorsally compressed, crowded on all sides, nearly sessile, arranged in clusters, furnished at the base with long, rough, involu- cral bristles more than twice the length of the spikelet; each bristle strongly toothed, the teeth pointing upwards. Each spikelet composed of two glumes and two florets, and although usually green has occa- sionally a purple tinge. Glumes two, very unequal, the lowermost considerably the smaller, broad and pointed, the upper glume of an oblong form, smooth, five-ribbed. Lowermost floret barren, of one palea, very similar in size and appearance to the larger glume, and by some authors has been considered as a third glume. Upper fio- ret of two palez, the outer the larger, concave, three-ribbed, the sur- face minutely dotted in longitudinal lines; the inner palea flattish, folded, and also minutely dotted. Styles two, distinct, long, and smooth, arising from the summit of the ovarium. Stigmas short and feathery. Stamens three. Anthers dark purple. Seeds hard and polished. Obs.—Setaria viridis is easily distinguished from Setaria verticdl- lata, in the involucral bristles being about three times the length of the spikelet, and furnished with minute teeth directed upwards, (see Fig. 2) ;—while in Setaria verticillata the involucral bristles are not Setaria viridis, Beauv., Koch, Hooker, Lind., Bab., Kunth. Panicum viride, Linn., Smith, Knapp, Schrad., Leers. AG Nt PAPER ery SER fis. g Re A) LN Re » uy b nr [ aN es ‘i “45 PLATE LXVIL. ryrrerisevaeeerrvpennyyyd teenth ee fff fin¥S1 0. S Cocoa Printed by J. Gellatly. Published by W™ Blackwood & Soms. Edinburgh & London. GRASSES OF BRITAIN. Rie twice the length of the spikelet, and furnished with teeth directed downwards. This grass is not strictly a British plant, although found occa- sionally in Surrey, Suffolk, and Norfolk. It is a native of Nor- way, Sweden, France, Prussia, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, Portu- gal, Spain, Russia, North Africa, and the United States. It grows naturally on sandy soil in cultivated districts, but of no agricultural importance. In some countries it becomes a.very troublesome weed. It produces an abundance of seed, of which small birds are very fond. Flowers in July and August, and ripens its seed in about the end of September. The accompanying figure was taken from a specimen gathered in Suffolk. Explanation of Plate LXVIIL Setaria viridis, natural size. Fig. 1. Rachis, with the spikelets removed, Jeaving the rough bristles natural size. 2. Spikelets showing the long bristles with erect teeth. 3. Glumes very unequal, 4, Lowermost floret of one palea. 5. Upper floret of two palee. | Magnified. 6. Ovarium, pistils, and stamens. 7. Ligule of upper sheath. 158 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. SETARIA VERTICILLATA. Reflex Bristle-Grass. Plate LXIX. Specific Character.—Involucral bristles, with reflexed teeth. Description.—Root annual, fibrous, producing many stems from six inches to two feet in length. Stems erect, hollow, mostly branched below, rough above, bearing four or five leaves with smooth, striated, sheaths; the upper sheath shorter than its leaf. Ligule of upper sheath, short, blunt, fringed, the length about equal to one-third of its breadth. Joints usually four, the upper situated generally above the centre of the stem, and mostly covered by the second sheath. Leaves flat, lanceolate, rough, especially on the margins. Inflores- cence simple panicled, the branches very short, the rachis rough. Spikelets dorsally compressed, crowded on all sides, nearly sessile, ar- ranged in clusters, furnished at the base with stout, rough, mvolucral bristles rather longer than the spikelets ; each bristle strongly toothed, the teeth pointing downwards. Each spikelet composed of two glumes and two florets, having a purplish tinge. Glumes, two very unequal, the lowermost considerably the smaller, broad and pointed, the up- per glume of an oblong form, smooth, five-ribbed. Lowermost floret barren, of one palea, very similar in size and appearance to the large glume, and by some authors has been considered as a third glume. Upper floret of two pales, the outer the larger, concave, three-rib- bed, the surface minutely dotted in longitudinal lines; the inner palea flattish, folded, and also minutely dotted. Styles two, distinct, long and smooth, arising from the summit of the ovarium. Stgmas short and feathery. Stamens three. Anthers dark-purple. Seeds hard and polished. Obs.—Setaria verticillata is distinguished from Setarta viridis in the involucral bristles, not being twice the length of the spikelet, and furnished with teeth directed downwards, (see Fig. 2.) ;—whereas in Sctaria verticillata, Beauy., Koch, Hooker, Lind., Bab., Kunth. Panicum vertiedla- fum, Linn., Smith, Knapp. Pennisetum verticillatum, Brown. my ee 7 eo. a elie 4 ae _ PLAT R i Xie : S| 2 yealullala R Forni. MD del? et scudpe Printed by J. Gellatly. Published. by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh # London. GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 159 Setaria viridis the involucral bristles are about three times the length of the spikelet, with the teeth directed upwards. It is probable that this grass was introduced into Britain through human agency, and therefore cannot be considered as a true native. It is met with occasionally in Middlesex and Norfolkin cultivated fields. It is a native of France, Holland, Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, North Africa, Asia, and the United States. Of no agricul- tural use. Flowers in July and August, and ripens its seed in about the end of September. The accompanying figure was taken from a specimen gathered in Norfolk. Explanation of Plate LXIX. Setaria verticillata, natural size. ~ Fig. 1. Rachis with the spikelets removed, leaving the rough bristles. Natural size. . Spikelet showing the stout bristles with reflexed teeth. Glumes very unequal, . Lowermost floret of one palea. Upper floret of two palez. . Ovarium, pistils, and stamens. . Ligule of upper sheath, Magnified, “IS oF em Ww bO ———+~-—— 160 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. DIGITARIA SANGUINALIS. Hairy Finger-Grass. Plate LXX. Specific Character.—Ribs of lowermost floret smooth. Glumes very unequal. Description.—Root annual, fibrous, producing several stems from six to eighteen inches in length. Stems branched and decumbent at the base, then ascending, smooth, hollow, striated, polished, bearing usually four leaves, with more or less hairy sheaths ; the upper sheath much longer than its leaf. Ligule of upper sheath prominent, rounded, and hairy at the base. Joints usually three, situated near the base, and mostly covered by the sheaths. Leaves short, flat, rather broad, generally rough on both surfaces, with rough, white margins. The hairs, which are more distinct on the lower sheaths, especially near the joints, spring from small tubercles. Inflorescence digitate, the branches long, erect, and linear, from three to nine in number. Rachis flattish, and somewhat angular, with the margins minutely toothed, bearing unilateral spikelets arranged in pairs on footstalks of unequal lengths, the one having the long footstalk being fertile, while the other is barren. Spikelets dorsally compressed, of an oblong- lanceolate form, composed of two glumes and two florets. Glumes two of very unequal size, the lowermost very small, resembling a membranous scale; the upper glume, acute, downy, three-ribbed. Lowermost floret of one palea, flat, of an oblong-lanceolate form, with five smooth ribs, and the margins very pubescent. Upper floret of two palez of equal length, frequently tinged with purple on one side only ; outer palea obscurely three-ribbed, granulated in longitudinal lines, the margins neither hairy or scabrous; inner palea with folded margins not fringed. /amenés three, rather longer than the palez. Anthers short, violet-coloured, cloven at each extremity. Styles two, slender, about the length of the stamens. Stigmas purplish, short, feathery. Seed hard and polished. Digitaria sanguinalis, Scopoli, Smith, Hooker, Bab., Lind. Panicum sanguinale, Linn., Koch, Kunth, Engl. Bot., Knapp, Curtis, Schreb., With. Syntherisma vulgare, Schrad. fA Mit, Printed by J. Cllatly. RPiyrndél AD. del’ & seaip* ‘London. Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 161 Obs.— Digitaria sanguinalis is distinguished from Digitaria humi- fusa in the glumes being very unequal, containing two florets, (see Fig. 4),—while in Digitaria humifusa the glumes are of equal size, and contain but one floret. Digitaria sanguinalis seems to vary exceedingly in the hairiness of its leaves and sheaths, so much so, that on some occasions they are perfectly hispid, while on others they are almost destitute of hairs ; examples of the former variety I have gathered in the West Indies ; at New Orleans; on the banks of the Mississippi and the Ohio. The latter variety I have found in Germany, more especially at Baden Baden, in the neighbourhood of the hot springs, also on the banks of the Danube near Lintz. This grass is of no agricultural use, but rather a troublesome weed, especially in those countries where it is a native. It grows best on rich sandy soil, and although an annual, spreads rapidly in a short time. Mr Sinclair states that in some parts of Germany this grass is cultivated for its seed, which, when boiled with milk or wine, is said to form an extremely palatable food, and is generally made use of whole in the manner of sago, to which it is in most instances prefer- red. It produces much seed, of which birds are very fond, and re- quires to be protected by nets or otherwise during the time of ripen- ing. The usual method of collecting and preparing the seeds is, that at sunrise they are gathered or beaten into a hair-sieve from the dewy grass, spread on a sheet and dried for a fortnight in the sun ; they are then gently beaten with a wooden pestle in a wooden trough or mortar, with straw laid between the seeds and the pestle, till the chaff comes of; they are then winnowed. After this they are again put into the trough in rows, with dried marigold flowers, apple and hazel-leaves, and pounded until they appear bright; they are then winnowed again, and being made perfectly clean by this last process, are fit for use. The marigold leaves are added to give the seeds a finer colour. A bushel of seed with the chaff yields only about two quarts of clean seed. Digitaria sanguinalis is not an indigenous plant. It has been found 162 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. occasionally in England, but in no fixed station. It formerly grew in Battersea fields near London, and according to Mr Borrer’s opinion, the other habitats, given in the British Floras for this plant, belong to the next species. It is a native of France, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, North Africa, America, and the West Indies. Flowers in August, and ripens its seed in about the end of Sep- tember. The accompanying figure was taken from a specimen gathered in Yorkshire. Explanation of Plate LAX. Digitaria sanguinalis, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelets and rachis. . Spikelet showing the upper glume. . Two glumes very unequal. Two glumes and two florets, P . Uppermost floret showing the outer and inner palez. . Ligule of upper sheath showing the hairs at the base. . Ovarium, pistils, and stamens. } og Aor Wh Magnified. “I Pe: fs v Mo pa ' i - a ABH City gaya any? Spay et yD yavete , fe’ ; + : ad ear $ - Sy aieae nd yt hg awe Ly pe ty vy Ps ti aria PU aor DATA “2 wee AS 1¥ Ta aR MaDe wae Shape Nt ch wie, aes OA Rc eT Pe RL Ys ti ie stad RS aie. ‘ r hing ‘th tate Bh ee Clip WpeteY STG. a Sms > ae one | (ei Pater feist iy) eg as tc acgire ine iho} Py) J iaee’ yl he pag Peas ial cai my nil “ta he . : a +] , \ é sbivaki boosts! ss Acad -aivenin. ys 0) Me ST ! Fe al a ; ‘ fei a wht ys ae di ; : “/7t T ry Tees rrr [ie Ny ir it HNIC wa Pea 4 - - * AS es es ue niet i" it dy eo te re ryt *,) Mawes) “Tie a oe a, Arn ° ° + : WTS Dilly TTT TORS Pi> ‘ae , par) Feit iit ant Sika \ Vv r eas ror it ay eer AN ren er) re bit, tin We ae) Ais * a vide! sen BA Lye vee é Me, | * j , \ ‘;< , bee . +* : ta a our 7 , uy pen "8 rte Be ‘ ¢ : he f r> ' ( ‘ : h al ‘ \~ ‘ a) Bre Asn by ah TA pags an i (Rs Se poy ee Aes eal 4 ibe Nap i Rte ERAS 5 ful Aa aaa “ ae bail > ea ae) ; is Nole i J iced edge “e pene Tareas SPT ey, ta he lk cr q it! Wie er ad ts sie set mrAy wil ¥ Rs six Ay tela . Us hee eae Feet! if ~ Rotigh . er: ; } } "aia (he il he Ue fer ews 164 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. DiGirARIA HUMIFUSA. Glabrous Finger-Grass. Plate LX XI. Specific Characters——Glumes equal. Sheaths smooth. Description—Root annual, fibrous, producing several stems from four to nine inches in length. Stems branched and decumbent at the base, then ascending, smooth, striated, hollow, polished, bearing usually four leaves with smooth striated sheaths, the upper sheath much longer than its leaf. Ligule of upper sheath obtuse, occasionally furnished with hairs at its base. Joints about three, situate near the base, and mostly covered by the sheaths. Leaves short, flat, rather broad, not hairy, the margins rough. Jnflorescence digitate, the branches long and linear, from two to four innumber. Rachis flattish and somewhat angular, with the margins minutely toothed, bearing unilateral spikelets arranged in pairs or threes on footstalks of unequal lengths. Spikelets dorsally compressed of an oval form, composed of two glumes and one floret. Glumes of equal size, pubescent, five-ribbed, the inner glume of a deep purple, the outer but slightly tinged. #/oret equal in length to the glumes, of a deep reddish purple, of two nearly equal palez, mi- nutely striated and glossy, becoming of a horny texture as the seed ripens ; inner palea folded and entire at the margins. Filaments three, rather longer than the palez. | Anthers short, violet-coloured, cloven at each extremity. Styles two, slender, about the length of the stamens. Stimgas purplish, short, feathery, dense. Seeds hard and polished. Obs.— Digitaria humifusa is distinguished from Digitaria san- guinalis in the glumes being of equal size, and containing but one floret, (see Fig. 2.);—while in Digitaria sanguinalis the glumes are very unequal, and contain two florets. Digitaria humifusa is distinguished from Cynodon Dactylon in the spikelets being dorsally compressed, and arranged on the rachis in pairs or threes (see Fig. 1). Glumes oval. Ligule distinct, (Fig. 5.) ; —whereas in Cynodon Dactylon the spikelets are laterally compressed, Digitaria humifusa, Pers., Hook., Bab. Syntherisma glabrum, Schrad. Panicwm glabrum, Koch. Panicum humifusum, Kunth. Digitaria filiformis, Koel. Pani- cum sanguinale, Pollich. ileal i eed Ls =, D Liv >a a — 4 ie idle th be SE i * i . , 2 i ai." 2 : : _* r | i] : ies e : Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. Syn an NR ONMwMre run ¥ oo Ate ea” GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 165 and arranged on the rachis singly. Glumes acute, lanceolate. Li- gule wanting. This grass, like the Digitaria sanguinalis, is a very doubtful native. It grows naturally on sandy ground in cultivated places, and is occa- sionally found in Sussex, Surrey, Suffolk, Norfolk, and Yorkshire. It is a native of France, Holland, Belgium, Prussia, Switzerland, and Italy. Of no agricultural use. Flowers in July and August, and ripens its seed in September. The accompanying figure was taken from a specimen gathered in Yorkshire. : Explanation of Plate LX XI. Digitaria humifusa, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelets and rachis. 2. Two glumes and floret. 3. Two glumes. 4, Floret showing the two palez. 5. Ligule of upper sheath. 6 . Ovarium, pistils, and stamens. -_———, SY Magnified 166 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. Cynopon DactTyton. Creeping Finger- Grass. Plate LX XII. Specific Characters —Glumes acute, nearly equal. Description.—Root perennial, creeping, producing many stems from three to six inches in length. Stems smooth, hollow, prostrate } at the base, bearing four or five leaves, with smooth, striated sheaths ; the upper sheath much longer than its leaf, crowned with a tuft of hairs in place of a ligule. Joints near the base, covered by the sheaths. Leaves flat or folded, acute, rigid, hairy, rough at the edges, the up- per leaf situated close under the panicle. Inflorescence digitate, li- near, purplish, bearing about eleven nearly sessile spikelets, arranged singly at equal distances on one side only of the rachis; the rachis rough, the margins closely toothed. Spikelets laterally compressed, composed of two glumes and one floret, with an occasional rudiment of a second. Glumes acute, nearly equal, the lower rather the smaller, without lateral ribs, toothed on the upper half of the keel. Foret rather longer than the glumes, of two pales, the outer palea the larger without lateral ribs, the dorsal rib and lower half of the mar- gins hairy; the inner palea about equal in length to the outer and rough at the margins. Stamens three. Pistils two. Stigmas fea- thery. Styles distinct, rather long. Obs.— Cynodon Dactylon is distinguished from Digitaria in the spikelets being laterally compressed, and arising from the rachis singly (see Fig. 1.) Ligule wanting,—while in Digitaria the spikelets are dorsally compressed, and arise from the rachis in pairs or threes, and the Ligule is very distinct. This grass grows abundantly on the sandy shores in the south-west Cynodon Dactylon, Pers., Koch, Kunth, Smith, Hooker, Bab., Lind. Panicum Dactylon, Linn., Eng, Bot., Knapp. ° 4 Printed by J Gdlathy. dinburgh & London. Bx : ‘ : GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 167 of Cornwall, but is not known to exist in any other part of Britain. It is found in Spain, Portugal, Italy, Turkey, Greece, Islands of the Mediterranean, North Africa, Western Asia, United States, and the West Indies. (I am indebted to Mrs Anderson of Montego Bay for specimens gathered in Jamaica.) Flowers in July and August, and ripens its seed in about the end of September. Of no agricultural use. The accompanying figure was taken from specimens gathered in Cornwall. Explanation of Plate LX XII. Cynodon Dactylon, natural size. Fig. . Spikelets and rachis. ) . Spikelet showing the glumes and floret. | | J whe . Floret showing the outer and inner palea, and a rudiment of a second floret on a long footstalk. 4, Upper sheath crowned with hairs in place of a ligule. 5. Ovarium, pistils, and stamens. Magnified, 168 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. KNAPPIA AGROSTIDEA. Early Knappia. Plate LX XIII. Specific Characters.—F lorets hairy, shorter than the glumes. Description.—Root annual, fibrous, producing many stems, from two to four inches in length. Stems smooth, slender, roundish, hol- low, swelling upwards, bearing two or three leaves with smooth com- pressed sheaths; upper sheath longer than its leaf. Lzgule of upper sheath prominent, obtuse, crenate, embracing the stem, decurrent, the length about equal to its breadth. Zeaves narrow, blunt, channel- led, smooth. Inflorescence racemed, unilateral; rachissmooth. Spzhe- lets on short though very distinct footstalks, composed of two glumes, and one floret. Glumes equal, smooth, obtuse, green down the back, the sides tinged with purple, without lateral ribs; outer glume (‘‘ gibbous at the base, especially when recent,”—Professor Graham. ) Floret of only one palea, (two palez according to some authors,) shorter than the glumes, white, very hairy, obtuse, and ragged at the summit. Styles two, short, distinct. Stigmas very long, slender, and feathery. Stamens three. Ovarium beautifully reticulated, or marked in longitudinal dots. Obs.—This grass is a native of England, France, and central parts of Europe, found growing in sandy maritime pastures. It is frequent along the south-west coast of Anglesea, and Professor Graham has found it growing in abundance at St Clements, Jersey, on a sandy common near the shore, as well as in several other places in the same island. Flowers in March and April, and ripens its seed in about the end of May. Of no agricultural use. The accompanying figure was taken from specimens gathered in Jersey. Knappia agrostidea, Smith, Hooker, With. Bab, Agrostis minima, Linn. Chama- grostis minima, Schrader, Lind. Mibora verna, Beauy. Stwrmia minima, Hoppe. Peeper emer Foe! Se ee mh a Le ee OY | ee. te ee ek ane eee ae ee ms ote wee ? = ; ( Uaeecy Printed by J. Gellatly. a +i! ss Publi a by W Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. eee it ie As oa Ate a ® . Pint Oe Te rong gsi . 7 ial - ippra Kna the two glumes and floret. 3. Floret of only one palea, 4. Palea opened. varium, owing ‘ium, pistils, and stamens. 1, Spikelets and rachis. 2, Spikelet sh 6. Ov 170 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. SPARTINA STRICTA. Twin-spiked Cord- Grass. Plate LX XIV. Specific Characters.—Glumes hairy. Outer glume more than half the length of the inner. Inner palea longer than the glumes. Description.—Root perennial, with strong creeping fibres. Stem smooth, hollow, striated, sheathed to the summit, from ten to twenty inches high, bearing numerous leaves with smooth, striated sheaths ; the upper sheath longer than its leaf. Ligule very short, obtuse, ragged, about five times as broad as long. Joints numerous, all co- vered by the sheaths. Leaves mostly involute, smooth, pointed, and rigid, easily separate from their sheaths. Lflorescence of two or three spikes, rarely of only one; the rachis angular, smooth, bearing usually about eight or nine sessile spikelets, arranged alternately on one side of the rachis. Spikelets laterally compressed, composed of two glumes and one floret. Glumes very unequal, hairy, without lateral ribs, the outer glume much the smaller. Foret of two palee of unequal lengths, the outer palea the shorter, about the length of the large glume, hairy and without lateral ribs; the inner palea longer than the outer, with two delicate ribs not fringed. Stamens three. Styles partly united. Stigmas feathery. Anthers erect, linear, entire at the top, cloven at the base. laments long and slender. Obs.—Spartina stricta is distinguished from Spartina alterniflora in the glumes being distinctly hairy. Large glume without lateral ribs, and one-third longer than the small glume. Ou¢er palea hairy, without lateral ribs. Jnner palea longer than the large glume (see Fig. 1);—whereas in Spartina alterniflora the glumes are not hairy except on the keel of the large glume. Large glume five-ribbed, and more than twice the length of the small glume. Outer palea three- ribbed and not hairy. nner palea shorter than the large glume. Spartina stricta, Kunth, Koch, Smith, Hooker, Lind., Bab, Dactylis stricta, Linn., Eng. Bot., Knapp, With. 3 aac IUCUUUUULUULL CU Utena fil wii un aw mene rr a a Ce ! SS 1 — x - = enh it - 7 a o~, * Sr un Ae ate “She eter dell 9 a giv) ib eeUULL e Seanlina J bucle. Printed by J. Gellatly. Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. rf pod } an Z iit GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 171 This grass grows on muddy salt marshes, and does not thrive be- yond the influence of the sea spray. It is found on the east and south-east coasts of England, principally on the muddy flats at the mouths of rivers. It has not been discovered either in Scotland or Ireland. Is also a native of France and Italy. _ Flowers in August, and ripens its seed in the middle of September. Of no agricultural use. The accompanying figure was taken from specimens gathered near Ipswich. Explanation of Plate LXXIV. Spartina stricta, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet showing the two glumes and the two palez. \3 2. Floret showing the outer and inner palea. } e 3. Ligule very short, natural size. f 5p 4, Ovarium, pistils, and stamens, Js 172 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. SPARTINA ALTERNIFLORA. Many-Spiked Cord-Grass. Plate LX XV. Specific Characters.—Outer glume not half the length of the in- ner. Inner palea shorter than the large glume. Description.—Root perennial, creeping, with very long runners. Stem smooth, hollow, striated, sheathed to the summit, from eighteen inches to two feet high, bearmg numerous leaves with smooth striat- ed sheaths, clothed for some distance upwards with withered persist- ent leaves of earlier growth; the upper sheath longer than its leaf. Ligule very short, obtuse, jagged or fringed, about five times as broad as long. Joints numerous, all covered by the sheaths. Leaves often a foot or more in length, six to ten lines in breadth, alternate, rather rigid and erect, flat to within an inch or two of their points, where the edges are involute; the uppermost leaf extending beyond the spikes, excepting in young immature specimens; all the leaves are persistent and continuous with their sheaths. Inflorescence of four to thirteen spikes, forming a close, compact, spike-like panicle, bearing several erect, sessile spikelets, arranged alternately on one side of the smooth, angular rachis. Rachis terminating into a flexu- ose awn-like point. Spikelets laterally compressed, of a lanceolate form, composed of two glumes and one floret. Glumes very un- equal, the outer glume much the smaller, membranous, lanceolate, about one-third the length of the inner glume; inner glume consi- derably the larger, of a lanceolate form, five-ribbed, the middle or keel fringed with small bristle-like hairs, pomting upwards; no hairs on any other part of the glumes. Foret of two palez, shorter than the glumes; outer palea three-ribbed, acute, not hairy ; inner palea the longer, very thin, acute, margins not fringed. Stamens three. Filaments capillary, not as long as the floret. Anthers erect, linear, entire at the top, cloven at the base. Styles partly united. Stigmas feathery. Obs.— Spartina alterniflora is distinguished from Spartina stricta Spartina alterniflora, Kunth, Hooker, Bab., Engl. Bot., Sup. L by FF Gilatily. Poinz e Parra MD del? & s¢ opdaon. - C4 a ‘dl re o oO fc CC B rd a fd a ey ee ae GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 173 in the glumes not being hairy, except on the keel of the large glume. Large glume five-ribbed. Outer palea three-ribbed, not hairy. Zn- ner palea not as long as the larger glume ;—whereas in Spartina stricta both the glumes are distinctly hawy. Large glume without lateral ribs. Outer palea hairy, without lateral ribs. Inner palea longer than the large glume. This grass, although found in great profusion on mud banks of the Itchen and Southampton rivers, has not been noticed in any other part of Britain. It is a strong reed-like grass, and when recently gathered is said to emit a powerful fetid odour resembling that of phosphuretted hydrogen gas. Horses and pigs eat it greedily, and the poorer class of people use it for thatching. It is likewise a native of North America. Flowers in August and September, and ripens its seed in October. The accompanying figure was taken from specimens gathered near Southampton. Explanation of Plate LX XV. Spartina alterniflora, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet showing the two glumes, and the outer and inner palez of the floret, = 2. Floret showing the two palez. t z 3. Ligule, natural size. cs 4, Ovarium, pistils, and stamens. 2 174 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. ALOPECURUS BULBOSUS. Bory Bulbous Foxtail Grass. Plate LX XVI. Specific Characters.—Root bulbous. Floret abrupt at the sum- mit. Awn extending half its length beyond the floret. Description.—Root perennial, tuberous. Stem ascending, bent at _ the joints, smooth, hollow, slender, and striated, from four to fifteen inches in length, bearing three or four leaves, with smooth, striated sheaths; the upper sheath rather longer than its leaf. Ligule of the upper sheath long and pointed, its length about equal to twice its breadth. Joints four, wide apart, the upper one situated rather be- low the centre of the stem, and not covered by the second sheath. Leaves rather narrow, flat, acute, rough on the inner surface and edges, smooth behind. Inflorescence racemed, or approaching to simple panicled, usually from an inch to an inch and a half in length, compact, with very short footstalks arranged on all sides of the rachis. Spikelets numerous, crowded, compressed, composed of two glumes and one floret. Glumes of equal length, pointed, obliquely truncated on the inner margin, separated the whole length to the base, hairy on the keels and lateral ribs. #Voret one-fifth shorter than the glumes, of one palea, truncated, with two green ribs on each side; when the palea is opened the central ribs terminate in two conical pots. Awn arising from a little above the base of the palea and extending half its length beyond the summit, rough on the upper part, smooth and twisted below. Filaments three, slender. Anthers protruding. Styles combined. Stigmas long and feathery. Obs.—Alopecurus bulbosus is distinguished from Alopecurus agres- tis in the stem and sheaths being smooth. loret truncated at the summit. Awn extending half its length beyond the summit of the palea ;—whereas in Alopecurus agrestis the stem and sheaths are rough to the touch. Foret conical at the summit. dwn extending more than half its length beyond the summit. Alopecurus bulbosus is distinguished from Alopecurus pratensis in the floret being about the one-fifth shorter than the glumes, and trun- Alopecurus bulbosus, Linn., Eng. Bot., Knapp, Smith, Hooker, Bab., Lind,, Kunth, mee, Ow wre” Torn aoc © a) ee oe taf A . v vi LT LTT by J Gellatly. Ped 4 burgh & London. dinbur,; Sons. E mod & WwW Bi Published EB Parndi MD del? & seudp? gee GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 175 cated at the summit. Glumes not united at the base ;—whereas in Alopecurus pratensis the floret is equal in length to the glumes and conical at the summit. Glumes united below. Alopecurus bulbosus is distinguished from Alopecurus geniculatus in the glumes being more pointed. Palea when opened terminate in two conical points in the centre, formed by a slight prolongation of the two central ribs, (see Fig. 4);—whereas in Alopecurus geniculatus the glumes are more obtuse at the summit. Palea, when opened, slightly notched in the centre, with no conical points. Alopecurus bulbosus is distinguished from Alopecurus fulvus in the floret being obtuse, having an awn extending half its length beyond the summit, (see Fig. 3) ;—while in Alopecurus fulvus the floret is conical, with an awn not extending beyond the summit. This grass grows in wet salt marshes in the counties of Somerset, Gloucester, Glamorgan, Sussex, Suffolk, and Norfolk. It has not been found either in Scotland or Ireland. It also occurs in France, Germany, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Turkey, Greece, and the Islands of the Mediterranean. Of no agricultural use. Flowers in July, and ripens its seed in the end of August. The accompanying figure was taken from a specimen gathered in Suffolk. Explanation of Plate LX XVI. Alopecurus bulbosus, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet showing the two glumes and floret. 2, Glumes opened free to the base. i 3. Floret of one palea. = 4. Palea opened, showing the conical points. i= 5. Ligule of upper sheath. = 6. Rachis and spikelets. 7. Ovarium, pistils, and stamens. 176 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. PHLEUM PRATENSE (variety) LONGIARISTATUM. Long-awned Timothy- Grass. Plate LX XVII. Tuis variety is distinguished by the awns of the glumes being near- ly as long as the glumes themselves, and the root bulbous; in other respects it is similar to Phieum pratense, described in page 18. Fre- quently the inflorescence is not more than half an inch in length, as in Fig. 1, when it greatly resembles Phleum alpinum, (Plate V1.), so much so that the two plants are then with difficulty distinguished by any essential character. This grass is occasionally met with in the neighbourhood of Edin- burgh, growing in damp shady places. It flowers early in August, and ripens its seed in about the end of September. The accompanying figure was taken from a specimen gathered in Roslin Wood. Explanation of Plate LX XVII. Phleum pratense (variety) longi- aristatum, natural size. Fig. 1. Short-headed variety, natural size. 2. Rachis and spikelets natural size. 3. Spikelet showing the two glumes and floret. 4, Glumes not expanded. 5. Floret showing the two palez. 6. Ligule of upper sheath. | 7, Ovarium, pistils, and stamens. Magnified. ~ ae Per el se PVR PIT MPSA IPE ene ana $ at semipe Edinburgh kLon@on. Published by W> Blackwood & Sas. ratte aa oe ie 178 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. PHLEUM PRATENSE (variety) LONGICILIATUM. Bulbous Timothy-Grass. Plate LX XVIII. Tus grass appears to be the Phleum nodosum of some authors, which is merely a variety of Phleum pratense, with bulbous roots. It seldom grows to more than a foot in length. The lower part of the stem is prostrate and bent at the joints. The awns of the glumes are short, and the hairs on the keels are longer than in Phleum pra- tense. It grows in sandy or barren situations, and flowers in about the end of July. It possesses no agricultural merits worthy of notice. The accompanying figure was taken from a specimen gathered on the west coast of Cantire, growing on sandy soil. Explanation of Plate LX XVIII. Phlewm pratense (variety) longi- ciliatum, natural size. Fig. 1. Rachis and spikelets, natural size. 2. Spikelet showing the two glumes and floret. 3. Spikelet closed, showing the long stout hairs on the keels, which do not extend the whole length of the keels but terminate abruptly. 4. Floret showing the two palez. 5. Ligule of upper sheath. 6. Ovarium, pistils, and stamens. Magnified. Printed by J Cdllatly. Rr eel syrup anit dinburgh & London. Plum fratende| verth) longutlalum. : Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. 3 ia \ Ly |B Parnell MD. del? at 8 : <3 es wer ‘ my ~— > i ag - “a » aS. ¥ ay 3. = ht —— . ee rat Bea Ned * 180 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. PHLEUM ASPERUM. Rough Caés-tail Grass. Plate LX XIX. Specific Characters.—Glumes wedge-shaped. Keels rough. Description.—Root perennial, fibrous. Stem erect, round, hollow, smooth, from six to eighteen inches high, bearing four or five leaves with somewhat roughish inflated sheaths, the upper sheath longer than its leaf. Ligule prominent and pointed, twice as long as broad. Joints usually four, all covered by the sheaths, the upper joint situ- ated above the centre of the stem. Leaves flat, acute, roughish on both surfaces as well as on the edges. Inflorescence panicled, from two to five inches in length, compact, with the branches arranged mostly in threes. Spikelets numerous, compressed, composed of two glumes and one floret. Glumes of equal lengths, pointed, rough, wedge-shaped, variegated with green and white, the imner mar- gins membranous, straight, and obtuse at the summit. loret about one-third shorter than the glumes, of two palez, the outer pa- lea roughish, obscurely five-ribbed, hairy on the upper part of the central rib, and obtuse at the summit; inner palea rather smaller, folded at the margins. Filaments three, capillary. Anthers cloven at each end. Styles two, distinct. Stigmas feathery. Seed cylin- drical, loose. Obs.—Phleum asperum is distinguished from Phleum pratense in the glumes being wedge-shaped, pointed, eels rough. Foret entire at the summit ;—whereas in Phleum pratense the glumes are more of acylindrical form, terminating in two prominent rough awns. Keels fringed with conspicuous bristle-like hairs. Foret jagged and mi- nutely awned at the summit. Phleum asperum is distinguished from Phleum Michelii in the glumes being wedge-shaped, swelling upwards, abrupt at the inner margins. Keels rough, not hairy ;—whereas in Phleum Michelii the glumes are lanceolate, acute. Keels very hairy. Phieum asperum is distinguished from Phleuwm arenarium in the Phleum asperum, Koch, Smith, Hooker, Bab., Lind., Schrad. Phlewm paniculatun, Huds., Eng. Bot., Knapp. Pha/aris aspera, Retz, Willd., Host. wa” — (03 Gd, Uf rey Sh RParneli. MD del? & wake & London. dinburgh E Published by W= Blackwood & Sans. . GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 181 glumes being wedge-shaped, swelling upwards, abrupt at the inner margins. eels rough, not hairy. Floret about one-third shorter than the glumes and entire at the summit, (see Fig. 3.) ;—-whereas in Phleum arenarium the glumes are lanceolate, acute. -Keels hairy on the upper half. Foret about one-third the length of the glumes, and jagged at the summit. Phleum asperum is distinguished from Phleum Boehmeri, in the glumes being wedge-shaped, swelling upwards. -Keels rough, not hairy. Ligule lanceolate ;—whereas in Phleum Boehmeri the glumes are of a linear form. Keels on the upper half fringed with a few con- spicuous bristly hairs. Ligule obtuse, short. * This grass is of so little profit to the farmer that it would not pay him to cultivate, the produce being much inferior to that of most other grasses. The culms are numerous, and the foliage in the spring is comparatively nothing. It is a rare grass in Britain, having been found but few times in the counties of Oxford, Cambridge, Glouces- ter, and Bedford. It is also a native of France, Prussia, Holland, Belgium, Switzerland, and Italy. It grows naturally in dry sandy places, but thrives best on a sandy loam. Its limit of altitude is about 1000 feet above the level of the sea. Flowers in July, and ripens its seed early in September. The accompanying figure was taken from a foreign specimen. Explanation of Plate LX XIX. Phleum asperum, natural size. Fig. 1. Rachis and spikelets natural size. 2. Spikelet. 3. Spikelet showing the two glumes and floret. 4, Floret showing the two palee. 5. Ligule of upper sheath. 5. Ovarium, pistils, and stamens. Magnified, 182 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. PuieuM BoEHMERI. Purple-stalked Cat’s-tail Grass. Plate LXXX. Specific Characters—Glumes hairy on the upper half of the keels. Floret one-third shorter than the glumes, and entire at the summit. Description.—Root perennial, fibrous, tufted. Stem erect, smooth, hollow, striated, and polished, from six to eighteen inches high, fre- quently, but not invariably tinged with purple, bearing four or five leaves, with smooth, striated sheaths, the upper sheath much longer than its leaf, more or less inflated. Ligule of upper sheath half as long as broad, obtuse, embracing the stem. Joinés usually four, the upper situated below the centre of the stem, and not covered by the second sheath, excepting when young. Leaves flat, acute, roughish on both surfaces, as well as on the edges; the upper leaf much the smallest, those from the root more linear. Inflorescence panicled, close, usually from one and a half to two inches in length, of a cylin- drical form, when small approaching to oval; rachis and branches roughish. Spikelets numerous, small, compressed, arranged on all sides, composed of two glumes and one awnless floret, shorter than the glumes by one-fourth. Glumes of equal size, linear, divaricating at the points, the margins white and membranous, terminating ob- liquely at the summit; the keels fringed with a few short white hairs, especially on the upper half. loret of two palez, the outer palea five-ribbed, roughish on the upper part of the central rib, entire at the summit. Inner palea about equal in length to the outer, mem- branous and entire at the margins. Ovarium hairy on the upper part. Scales prominent, hairy. Styles two, distinct, arising from the summit of the ovarium. Stigmas feathery. Stamens three. Obs. In Sir William Hooker’s British Flora, it is stated that the keels of the glumes are downy, while Sir James Smith asserts them to be more or less fringed with a few bristles, not soft hairs. In all those specimens which I have examined, the keels of the glumes were never downy, but always fringed with short, stout, white hairs, espe- Phlewm Bochmeri, Schrader, Koch, Smith, Kunth, Hooker, Lind., With., Bab. Pha- laris phleoides, Linn. Chilochloa Bochmert, Beauv. N see eae . once i a ee ei nnn 2 i aaa ) iP Moun Boob, INGUL i ——" rs Printed by J Gellatly. RParndl. MD. del? & scadp? Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 183 cially on the upper half. I think it probable, therefore, that two spe- cies may have been confounded under one name. Phleum Boehmeri is distinguished from Phleum pratense in the glumes not being awned, but pointed. The eels less hairy, the hairs confined to the upper half. Inner margins of the glumes terminating obliquely. Outer palea entire at the summit ;—whereas in Phleum pratense the awns are very conspicuous. The keels fringed with hairs the whole length, or nearly so, and the inner margins terminate abruptly. Outer palea jagged at the summit, with a minute awn or point. Phleum Boehmeri is distinguished from Phleum Michelii in the glumes being more linear, the inner margins terminatmg more abruptly. Upper half of the keels bristly ;—-whereas in Phleum Mi- chelti the glumes are acutely lanceolate, and the eels are fringed their whole length with soft, delicate hairs. Phleum Boehmeri is distinguished from Phleum arenarium in the inner margins of the glumes not being fringed. The floret one- fourth shorter than the glumes, and entire at the summit :—whereas in Phleum arenarium the inner margins of the glumes are distinctly fringed with minute hairs. The floret two-thirds shorter than the glumes, and jagged at the summit. Phleum Boehmeri is distinguished from Phleum asperum in the glumes approaching to linear ; the points divaricating. Keels fringed with a few bristle-like hairs, especially on the upper half. Ligule rather short and obtuse ;—whereas in Phleum asperum the glumes are wedge-shaped ; the points not divaricating. eels rough, but not fringed. Ligule long and pointed. This is a rare British grass, and grows on dry, sandy, and chalky fields principally in Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. It has not been found either in Ireland or Scotland. It is a native of Norway, Swe- den, France, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, and Russia. It possesses no agricultural merits. Flowers in July, and ripens its seed in the middle of August. are The: accompanying fi "Cambridgeshire . 1. Rachis and spikelets natural size. Spikelet. | , Spikelet showing the two glumes and floret, Floret showing the two palee. Ligule of upper sheath. Ovarium, pistils, and stamens. =e 7 2 a Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. Published aes pais bent nih pte ee by nS Pe Pe ment? ys RT i " eer istnitie. — Wan ee Sy “yi Mors mek bat Pas aa TN oth (th Plt ter 0 ae Ad waa’ r Tee & NIoite ai ra 4 teyecwi, 3b. > Se .ciepa=zy . “> PY ay). y Drei. byt ; ‘ £ a “ - ‘oe fa y ie bte'y Bee whe seid “26. HS, Liunec ahd Tags ett Sed Ce : va tye: AR Peay pe UT mtb Na tt aera! 7 Ds te Wigs - abe z E CRs CAT §! nel a firs 7 pleats: -, =. ane 7 he Saxe aul Label Rascal Th ie ‘ay maz Apes as ae ied DY Cmte Mg eet Es tra: at eee te te tae gs Bie 2 ae ae u a i an alate al ba! ee. tie ae - sr ecid PAE te a TW eeu ae, aly oe y Ming” 190 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. AGROSTIS SETACEA. Bristle-leaved Bent-Grass. Plate LX XXIII. Specific Characters.—Sheaths rough. Ligule long and pointed. Inner palea one-fourth the length of the outer. Description.—Root perennial, fibrous, tufted. Stem round, striated,. hollow, roughish, from eight to fifteen inches in length, bearing four or five leaves with rough, striated sheaths; the upper sheath much longer than its leaf. Ligule of upper sheath prominent, acute, about twice as long as broad. Joints usually three, the upper situated about the middle of the stem, and not covered by the second sheath. Leaves narrow, rough from point to base; those of the root numerous, long, and setaceous. Inflorescence compound panicled, erect, spreading while in flower, otherwise close, the branches rough, slender, and rather short, arising from the rough rachis in threes or fives. Spzhelets numerous, small, acute, composed of two glumes and one floret. Glumes nearly of equal lengths, without lateral ribs, the outer the larger, toothed nearly the whole length of the keel. Foret shorter than the glumes, of two very unequal palez, the outer the larger, four~ ribbed, jagged at the summit, hairy at the base, furnished with a long, slender, roughish awn, arising from a little above the base and extend- ing about half its length beyond the summit. Inner palea very small, about one-fourth the length of the outer palea. Styles two, distinct. Stigmas feathery. Filaments three. Anthers cloven at each end. Scales acute. Obs.— Agrostis setacea is distinguished from Agrostis vulgaris in the stem and sheaths being rough to the touch; ligule prominent, acute; inner palea about. one-fourth the length of the outer palea ; —whereas in Agrostis vulgaris the stem and sheaths are smooth ; ligule short and obtuse; inner palea about half the length of the outer. Agrostis setacea is distinguished from Agrostis alba in the floret having a long awn arising from a little above the base, and extend- ing half its length beyond the summit of the floret; cnner palea very Agrostis setacea, Curt., Eng. Bot., Smith, Knapp, Hooker, Lind., Bab., With. oH 1) el a a ; 1 g 5 me Wo ae g Ps 98 un UUM YAN ANNALARA wife mS be g ° ; » gs f ae ae : a E ' ti a rvs i ' Arron Ha enn Many Nr nay mene Re Parnell HOD del! et scude* ale GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 191 small, not more than one-fourth the length of the outer; Jeaves from the root setaceous ;—whereas in Agrostis alba the floret has no awn, except occasionally a very short one from a little below the sum- mit; inner palea more than half the length of the outer; leaves from the root flat, not setaceous. Agrostis setacea is distinguished from Agrostis canina in the stem and sheaths being rough: inner palea about one-fourth the length of the outer ;—whereas in Agrostis canina the stem and sheaths are smooth, and the znner palea is altogether wanting. This grass grows on dry turfy heaths, and is confined almost en- tirely to the south-west parts of England. I have frequently seen it in many parts of Devonshire, forming the principal natural herbage on sandy heaths. Sheep are fond of this grass, and thrive well on it; but horses and cows give a preference to those more succulent. It is also a native of France, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Turkey, and Greece. Flowers in July and August, and ripens its seed in September. The accompanying figure was taken from specimens gathered in Devonshire. Explanation of Plate LX XXIII. Agrostis setacea, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet, showing the two glumes and floret. = 2. Floret, showing the two palez and dorsal awn. ) e 3. Ligule of upper sheath. \ 5 4. Ovarium, pistils, and stamens. = 192 GRASSES OF BRITAIN: CALAMAGROSTIS LANCEOLATA. Purple-flowered Small-Reed. Plate LX XXIV. Specifie Characters.—Hairs longer than their floret. Awn very short, arising from a little below the summit of the palea. Description.—Root perennial, creeping. Stem round, hollow, smooth, and striated, usually about three feet high, bearing four or five leaves with smooth, striated sheaths; the upper sheath longer than its leaf. Ligule of upper sheath prominent, obtuse, longer than broad. Joints wide apart, the upper situated above the centre of the stem, and not covered by the second sheath. Leaves long, narrow, flat, acute, rough on both surfaces and edges. Inflorescence com- pound panicled, usually from seven to eight inches in length, spread- ing, while in flower otherwise close, the branches slender and rough, arising in alternate clusters, from the round, rough rachis. Spikelets numerous, composed of two glumes and one floret. Glumes narrow, acute, about equal lengths, without lateral ribs, often tinged with purple, toothed the whole length of their keels. — F'loret one-third shorter than the glumes, of two palez, the outer palea five-ribbed, bifid at the summit, awned from a little beneath the summit, and furnished at the base with a number of long, white, silky hairs ex- tending a little beyond the floret. Awn very short, rough and slen- der, not more than one-sixth the length of the floret, arising from a little beneath the summit of the outer palea, and extending just be- yond it. Inner palea about one-third shorter than the outer, very thin and pellucid, cloven at the summit and smooth on the lateral folds. Styles two, short. Stigmas long and feathery. laments three, slender. Anthers long and cloven at each end. Scales acute. Obs.— Calamagrostis lanceolata is distinguished from Calamagrostis Lapponica in the floret being one-third shorter than the glumes; hairs longer than their floret; awn very short, arising from a little beneath the summit of the outer palea;—whereas in Calamagrostis Lapponica the floret is about equal in length to the glumes; hazrs Calamagrostis lanceolata, Koch, Kunth, Hooker, Lind., Bab. Aryundo calamagrostis, Smith, Knapp, Sehrad, 4 Printed by J. Geliatly. R Parnell. MD del? & scudp* q “Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. ae GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 193 shorter than their floret; awn arising from a little beneath the cen- tre, and extending slightly beyond the summit of the palea. Calamagrostis lanceolata is distinguished from Calamagrostis Epi- gegos in the awn of the floret being very short, arising from a little beneath the summit and extending but slightly beyond it ;—whereas in Calamagrostis Epigegos the awn is long, arising from the centre of the palea and extending nearly half its length beyond its summit. Calamagrostis lanceolata is distinguished from Calamagrostis stricta in the floret being one-third shorter than the glumes; hairs longer than their floret; awn arising from beneath the summit of the palea ;—whereas in Calamagrostis stricta the floret is equal in length to the glumes; airs rather shorter than their floret; awn arising from a little beneath the centre of the palea. This grass is found in moist woods and shady places in many parts of England, especially in the counties of Devon, Bedford, Cambridge, Dorset, Sussex, Suffolk, Northampton, Hants, Leicester, Lincoln, York, and Cumberland. It is also found in Ireland, Lapland, Nor- way, Sweden, France, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Turkey, Greece, North Africa, Siberia, and British America. It has not been noticed in Scotland. Flowers in June and July, and ripens its seed about the end of August. Of no agricultural merits worthy of notice. The accompanying figure was taken from a specimen gathered in Suffolk. Explanation of Plate LXXXIV. Calamagrostis lanceolata, na- tural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet and part of the branch. b ae 2. Spikelet showing the two glumes and floret, 2 3. Floret showing the two palez and awn. = 4. Ligule of upper sheath. | a 5. Ovarium, pistils, and stamens. a 194 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. CALAMAGROSTIS LAPPONICA. Lapland Small-Reed. Plate LXXXV. Specific Characters.—Ligule acute. Hairs shorter than their floret. Awn arising from below the centre of the palea. Description.—Root perennial, creeping. Stem round, hollow, smooth and striated, usually about three feet high, bearmg four or five leaves with smooth striated sheaths; upper sheath longer than its leaf. Ligule of upper sheath prominent, acute, about twice as long as broad. Joints wide apart, the upper situated below the centre of the stem, and not covered by the second sheath. Leaves long, nar- row, and acute, rough on the inner surface and edges, very smooth behind, mostly involute especially when dry. Inflorescence compound panicled, of a brownish-purple, erect, close, from three to four inches in length, with rough branches arising in alternate clusters from the round, rough rachis. Spikelets numerous, composed of two glumes and one floret. Glumes narrow, acute, about equal size, without lateral ribs, tinged with purple, toothed nearly the whole length of their keels. Foret about equal in length to the glumes, of two palez, the outer palea five-ribbed, rough, bifid at the summit, awned from below the centre, and furnished at the base with a number of long, erect, straight, silky hairs, about one-fourth shorter than the floret ; no rudiment of a second floret. Inner palea about one-third shorter than the outer, smooth on the lateral folds. -Awn rough and slender, arising from a little beneath the centre of the outer palea, and extend- ing a very little beyond the summit. Styles two, short. Stigmas feathery. Stamens three, notched at each end. Scales acute. Obs.—Culamagrostis Lapponica, although a very distinct plant from Calamagrostis stricta, is with difficulty distinguished by any prominent character. The spchelets of Calamagrostis Lapponica, how- ever, are larger; the glumes narrower; the hairs of the floret some- what shorter; awn a trifle longer and the ligule acute ;—while in Calamagrostis stricta the ligule is very short and obtuse. Calamagrostis Lapponica, Harton, Hooker, Bab. Deyeuxia Lapponica, Kunth. Arundo Lapponica, Wahlenh. 3 GeLaty. \ ater eat my Sronted by J uy ua by WS Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. Se sect” . So . pe ey LEDs > aM eal) ee PP TR ee GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 195 Calamagrostis Lapponica is distinguished from Calamagrostis Epi- gegos in the hairs being shorter than their floret ; awn scarcely longer than its floret ;—whereas in Calamagrostis Epigegos the hairs are considerably longer than their floret, and the awn extends nearly half its length beyond its floret. Calamagrostis Lapponica is distinguished from Calamagrostis lan- ceolata in the floret being about equal in length to the glumes; Aairs shorter than their floret ; awn arising from a little beneath the centre of its floret ;—whereas in Calamagrostis lanceolata the floret is one- third shorter than the glumes; airs longer than their floret; awn arising from a little beneath the summit of its floret. This grass grows in Ireland near Loch Neagh, and in other places in the county of Antrim; but in no other part of Britain has it yet been discovered. It is a native of Lapland. Flowers in June and July. Its agricultural merits probably rank with the preceding. The accompanying figure was taken from a specimen gathered near Loch Neagh. Explanation of Plate LAXXV. Calamagrostis Lapponica, na- tural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet and part of the branch. 2. Spikelet, showing the glumes and floret. 8. Floret, showing the two palez and awn. 4, Ligule of upper sheath. 5. Ovarium, pistils, and stamens. Megnitied, _ a) 196 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. GFASTRIDIUM LENDIGERUM. Nit-Grass. Plate LXX XVI. Specific Character.—Awn of the floret longer than the glumes. Description—Root annual, fibrous. Stem erect, round, hollow, smooth, and polished, from six to fifteen inches high, bearing four or five leaves with mostly smooth sheaths; the upper sheath longer than its leaf. Ligule prominent, pointed, longer than broad. Joints usually three, the upper one generally covered by the second sheath. Leaves flat, acute, rough from poit to base. Inflorescence compound panicled, close, of a pale-green, the branches rough, arising in threes or fours alternately along the round, smooth rachis. Spikelets numerous, erect, composed of two glumes and one floret. Glumes of rather unequal lengths, acute, swelling at the base, keels green, strongly toothed on the upper half. Floret about one-third the length of the glumes, of two palee, the outer palea five-ribbed, frequently hairy, jagged at the summit, fur- nished with a dorsal awn, which is sometimes wanting; the inner palea rather shorter than the outer, notched at the summit and smooth on the lateral ribs. Awn slender, rough, arising from a little below the summit of the outer palea, and rather more than twice the length of the palea. Styles two, distinct, very short. Stigmas feathery. Filaments three, slender. Anthers notched at each end. S‘cales acute. Obs.—This grass is easily distinguished from any other British grass by the peculiar glossy tumid appearance at the base of the glumes. It is by no means a common grass. It grows naturally in fields where water has stagnated, especially near the sea, and has been found in the counties of Devon, Dorset, Somerset, ‘Hants, Sussex, Surrey, Essex, Denbigh, and Flint. It is also a native of France, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Turkey, Greece, North Africa, and the Islands of the Mediterranean. It has not been found in Ireland or Scotland. Not known to be of any agricultural value. Gastrideum lendigerum, Gand., Hooker, Lind., Link, Bab. Gastridiwm australe, Beauv., Kunth. Milium lendigerum, Linn., Smith, Eng. Bot. Agrostis ventricosa, Knapp. GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 197 Flowers in August, and ripens its seed in the end of September. The accompanying figure was taken from a specimen gathered in Essex. Explanation of Plate LXX XVI. Gastridium lendigerum, natu- ral size. . Rachis and branches. . Spikelet. . Spikelet, showing the two glumes and floret. . Floret, showing the two palez and awn. Ligule. Ovarium, pistils, and stamens. oa" > OY wm oo Do ee Magnified. 198 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. STIPA PENNATA. Feathery-Grass. Plate LXX XVII. Specific Character.—Awn of the floret very long, feathery. Description.—Root perennial, fibrous. Stem erect, round, smooth, hollow, usually about two feet high, bearing four or five leaves, with roughish sheaths, the upper sheath longer than its leaf. Ligule of upper sheath hairy, long and pointed, about twice as long as broad. Joints three or four, all covered by the sheaths. Leaves long, slen- der, rigid, setaceous, frequently hairy on both sides. Inflorescence racemed, bursting from the upper sheath. Spzkelets large, few, com- posed of two glumes and one floret. Glumes of nearly equal lengths, long, slender, furnished with a few long, scattered hairs, especially on the keels. Foret about half the length of the glumes, of two pa- le, the outer palea five-ribbed, hairy, and pointed at the base, ter- minating in a long feathery awn. Inner palea rather shorter than the outer, membranes acute. Awn arising from the very summit of the outer palea, and frequently more than twenty times the length of the palea, soft and feathery the whole length, except at the base, where it is twisted for about the space of an inch. Styles two, dis- tinct. Stigmas feathery. Filaments three, capillary. _Anthers notched at each end. Scales acute. Ods.—This grass, which is so well known, on account of its beau- tiful feather-like appearance, is said to have been found wild on lime- stone rocks in the county of Westmorland. It is cultivated in gar- dens of the curious, and serves in winter as an ornament to our rooms. It grows wild in many places in Germany, in dry sandy situations. Its agricultural merits rank among the inferior grasses. Flowers in the early part of August, and ripens its seed about the middle of September. The accompanying figure was taken from a cultivated specimen. Stipa pennata, Linn., Koch, Smith, Hooker, Knapp, Lind., Bab. Printed by J. Gdlatly. = a oD gi im by W% Blackwood& Sons. Edinburgh &Lonaon. aor i fe GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 199 Explanation of Plate LXXXVII. Stipa pennata, natural size. Fig. 1. Glumes, 2. Floret, showing the two palee. 3. Ovarium, pistils, and stamens, Magnified. 200 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. LAGURUS OVATUS. Hair’s-tail-Grass. Plate LX XXVIII. Specific Character.—Outer palea terminating in two, slender, rough, bristles. Description.—Root annual, fibrous. Stem erect, round, smooth, hollow and striated; from three to nine inches high; bearing four or five leaves with soft, downy, inflated sheaths; upper sheath longer than its leaf. Ligule prominent, obtuse, embracing the stem. Joznts usually three, mostly covered by the sheaths. Leaves rather short, broad, flat, acute, covered on both surfaces with soft downy hairs. Inflorescence compound panicled, of an ovate form, usually about an inch in length, at first erect, at length bending slightly to a side, the branches short, numerous, clustered. Spzkelets crowded, com- posed of two, long, hairy glumes and one floret. Glumes of equal lengths, fringed with long, soft, white hairs. Foret about one-third shorter than the glumes, of two palez, the outer palea rough, five- ribbed, hairy at the base, terminating in two, slender, rough bristles, and furnished with a long dorsal awn. Inner palea about the length of the outer, thin, narrow, and roughish on the lateral folds. Awn arising from a little below the bifid summit of the outer palea, and extending considerably beyond the palea, rough its whole length, and slightly bent a little below its centre. Styles two, very short. Stig- mas feathery. Filaments three, slender. Anthers cloven at each end. Scales acute. Obs.—The pale soft head of this grass is so striking a character, that it is not likely to be mistaken for any other British grass. I have known, however, some varieties of Alopecurus pratensis mistaken for it, but the form of the spikelets are totally different. As a British grass it is very rare, found only on sandy ground in the north and west of Guernsey. It is also a native of Asia. Lagurus ovatus, Linn., Koch, Kunth, Smith, Hooker, Bab., Lind., Knapp, With. serooonniege ae as = a I cn en ONNT maaan a atte aie aeeurnrevin yey l tO Sine Rt Sevan . withers eaypugnyoner er arent SAMAR unm Printed by J. Gellatly. Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. RParndl MD, del? et scuipe s oo _ ai ihe GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 201 Flowers in June, and ripens its seed about the end of July. Of no agricultural use. The accompanying figure was taken from specimens gathered in Guernsey. Explanation of Plate LXX XVII. Lagurus ovatus, natural size. Fig. 1. Rachis and branches natural size. 2. Ligule natural size. 3. Spikelet showing the glumes and floret. 4, Floret showing the palee and awn. 5, Ovarium, pistils, and stamens, Magnified, 202 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. POA BULBOSA. Bulbous Meadow-Grass. Plate LXX XIX. Specific Character.—Florets webbed. Ligules long and acute. Stem and sheaths smooth. Description.—Root perennial, bulbous. Stem round, smooth, hol- low, and striated, from five to nine inches high, bearing four or five leaves, with smooth striated sheaths; the upper sheath much longer than its leaf. Lzgule of upper sheath long and pointed, about twice as long as broad. Joints usually three, the upper situated below the centre of the stem, and frequently covered by the second sheath. Leaves flat, acute, roughish on the edges and inner surface, smooth behind. Inflorescence panicled, the branches rough, arising alter- nately on the rachis, generally in pairs. Spzkelets ovate, green, or | tinged with purple, composed of two glumes and three or four florets. Glumes about equal, three-ribbed, toothed on the upper half of the keels. Florets longer than the glumes, copiously webbed at the base, of two pale, the outer palea of lowermost floret five-ribbed; the dorsal and marginal ribs hairy, the intermediate ribs naked; the inner glume a very little shorter than the outer, thin, whitish, nar- row, acute, furnished with two green ribs, minutely fringed. Styles two, distinct. Stigmas feathery. Filaments capillary, three. An- thers notched at each end. Scales acute, notched. Obs.—FPoa bulbosa belongs to that division of Poa in which the florets are webbed at the base. It is distinguished from Poa pratensis in the ligules being acute ; root bulbous-like ;—while in Poa pratensis the ligules are obtuse, and the root fibrous. Poa bulbosa is distinguished from Poa trivialis in the sheaths being smooth ; marginal ribs of outer palea hairy ;—whereas in Poa ¢ri- vialis the sheaths are rough, and the marginal ribs of the outer palea naked. Poa bulbosa is distinguished from Poa compressa in the ligules being Poa bulbosa, Linn., Kunth, Koch, Smith, Hooker, Knapp, With., Lind., Bab. J Gellatly. ried R Parnell ID del? & seaip? & Sons. Edinburgh & London. a iackwoo Published by W"B GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 203 long and acute ;—while in Poa compressa the ligules are short and blunt. Stem very much compressed, and the root creeping. This grass has not been found either in Scotland or Ireland, but grows abundantly in many places on the sandy shores on the south and east of England, especially near Yarmouth, where it forms a great part of the herbage of the Denes. It also grows plentifully at Lowestoff, Suffolk, on the low sandy ground between the middle part of the town and the beach. It is also a native of France, Germany, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Siberia, and North Africa. It is an early grass, flowering in April and May, after which it soon withers, when the bulbs lie loose upon the sand until the au- tumn following, when they again fix themselves. For the purpose of agriculture, this grass possesses no superior merit beyond that of early growth, the quantity of herbage being scanty. The accompanying figure was taken from a specimen gathered in Suffolk. Explanation of Plate LXX XIX. Poa bulbosa, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelets, showing the two glumes and four florets. 2. Glumes. 3. Floret, showing the outer and inner palea, with a copious web at the base. 4, Outer palea opened, showing the five ribs, three of which are hairy. 5. Inner palea, showing the fringed marginal ribs, 6. Ligule of upper sheath long and pointed. 7. Ovarium, pistils, and stamens. Magnified, ips aay 204 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. PoA SUBCOMPRESSA. Flat-stalked Five-ribbed Meadow-Grass. Plate XC. Specific Characters.—Florets webbed. Outer palea five-ribbed. Marginal ribs hairy. Stem very much compressed. Ligule obtuse. Description.—Root perennial, creeping, producing stems from six to fifteen inches in length. Stems erect, decumbent at the base, smooth, hollow, very much compressed, bearing four or five leaves with smooth, striated, compressed sheaths; upper sheath about equal in length to its leaf. Ligule of upper sheath short and obtuse, about twice as long as broad. Joints four or five, the upper generally situ- ated about the middle of the stem. eaves rather short, flat, acute, rough on the upper surface and edges, smooth behind. Inflorescence simple panicled, spreading while in flower, otherwise close, the branches and rachis rough; lower part of the rachis much smaller than the stem. Spikelets ovate, acute, compressed, composed of two glumes and from five to seven florets, the summit of the lowermost floret extending slightly beyond the large glume. Glumes rather unequal, three-ribbed, minutely toothed on the upper part of the keels. Florets of two pales, the outer palea of the lowermost floret five-ribbed; the lower half of the dorsal and marginal ribs hairy; the base, furnished with a delicate web, attached to the glumes. Inner palea rather shorter than the outer, with two green ribs minutely fringed. Styles two, distinct. Stigmas feathery. Filaments three, capillary. Anthers notched at each end. Scales acute, notched. Obs.—Poa subcompressa very much resembles Poa compressa, but is readily distinguished in the owter palea having five distinct ribs in- stead of only three. When under cultivation the panicle does not grow to half the size of that of Poa compressa. Poa subcompressa is distinguished from Poa polynoda in the florets being distinctly webbed, and the “gules shorter and more obtuse ;— while in Poa polynoda the florets are never webbed. Poa subcompressa is distinguished from Poa pratensis in the sheaths being very much compressed, ae aie flat; upper leaf about equal teomyt td JSa- ——— ty A IfZ c wel SS of (AOE: amburge & Londen. scod & Sons. E Published by W™ Bla GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 205 in length to its sheath ;—whereas in Poa pratensis the sheaths are not compressed, and the upper leaf is much shorter than its sheath. Poa subcompressa is distinguished from Poa nemoralis in the pani- ele being much shorter and more rigid. igules more prominent. Sheaths considerably more compressed. Upper leaf not longer than its sheath ;—whereas in Poa nemoralis the panicle is long and slen- der, ligules very short, and the upper leaf longer than its sheath. This grass grows, though sparingly, in the neighbourhood of Edin- burgh, on dry sandy soil and rocky places, and on the tops of old walls. It has been gathered by Professor Balfour in the King’s Park, and Mr Babington has sent me specimens gathered in Mon- mouthshire. I have met with it growing in many places on old walls near Paris, and I have also found it very common at Aix-la-Chapelle, Coblentz, Ratisbon, and Vienna. It flowers early in July, and ripens its seed in the middle of August. It is a grass of not sufii- cient agricultural importance to merit the attention of farmers. The accompanying figure was taken from a specimen gathered near Edinburgh. Esplanation of Plate XC. Poa subcompressa, natural size. 2. Spikelet, showing the two glumes and seven florets. 3. Glumes. 4, Floret, showing the two palez, and a delicate web from the base, attach ed to the glumes. . Outer palea opened, showing the five ribs, three of which are hairy. . Ligule of upper sheath. . Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales. Fig. 1. Part of the rachis and branches. 4 P Magnified “ID Or — 206 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. PoA POLYNODA. Silicious Meadow-Grass. Plate XCI. An additional figure of this grass is here given, in order to delineate the species more minutely than that in Plate XX XIX. The description will be found in page 85. From the time I first discovered this plant, specimens have been under cultivation in rich soil, and plants have been reared from seeds sown in pots; no change whatever has taken place in the character of the grass further than that of the panicle becoming more luxuri- ant ;—the essential characters remaining constant, namely, florets not webbed ; outer palea five-ribbed ; ligules prominent; upper leaf about equal in length to its sheath; and the stem and sheaths much compressed. I consider it a well-marked species. — Specimens of this grass are under cultivation in Mr Lawson’s nur- sery gardens, Edinburgh. Explanation of Plate XCI. Poa polynoda, natural size. Fig. 1. Part of the rachis and branches. } 2. Spikelet, showing the two glumes.and four florets. ' 3. Glumes. = 4, Floret showing the two palez, t & 1 3 6. Ligule of upper sheath. &. Outer palea, showing the five ribs, the middle and two lateral ones hairy. 3 7. Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales. | nN MKT i Printed by J Gellatiy. “ Ss NTH none - | nce nn von = 7 - Hee Wu TOMI THN Parte TED. deb? 2 80 4 & Sons. Edinburgh &London- o Published by W™ Biack 208 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. Poa POLYNODA (variety) DENTICULATA. Lyle’s Silicious Meadow- Grass. Plate XCIT. This grass differs from the preceding in the middle rib of the outer palea not being hairy, but mintuely toothed the whole length. Ligule of upper sheath shorter. Base of the floret often furnished with a single convoluted hair. In other respects the two plants are similar. This variety was gathered by Mr Lyle near Airth, Stirlingshire. Flowers in the first week in July, and ripens its seed early in Au- cust. Of little agricultural importance, the foliage being too scanty. Explanation of Plate XCII. Poa polynoda (variety) denticulata, natural size. Fig. 1. Part of the rachis and branches. 7} 2. Spikelet, showing the two glumes and three florets. 3. Glumes. 4, Floret, showing the two palee ; the large palea toothed the whole length of the dorsal rib, and furnished with a small convoluted hair at the base. 5. Outer or large palea opened, showing the five ribs ; the side ribs slightly hairy on the lower half. 6. Ligule of the upper sheath. 7. Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales. Magnified. Printed by J Gellatly. ti Parnell MD del? & scalp* Published by W> Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. 210 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. Poa PaRNELLIL Babington’s Meadow- Grass. Plate XCIII. Specific Characters.—F lorets not webbed. Ligule very short, ob- tuse. Upper leaf shorter than its sheath. Outer palea five-ribbed. Upper joint about the middle of the stem. Description.—Root perennial, fibrous, producing stems from six to eighteen inches in length. Stems erect, compressed, smooth and somewhat polished, bearing four or five leaves with smooth, striated sheaths ; the upper sheath longer than its leaf. Zgule of upper sheath very short and obtuse, about six times as broad as long. Joints four, the upper one naked, stiuated about the middle of the stem, and very remote from the second. Leaves lanceolate, flat, acute, rough on the upper surface and edges, smooth behind on the lower half. nflo- rescence compound panicled, usually about three inches in length, erect, rather close, the branches slender, rough, the lower ones aris- ing from the rachis mostly in pairs or threes ; the rachis on the lower part scarcely smaller than the stem, smooth, the upper part rough. Spikelets ovate-lanceolate, composed of two glumes and two or three florets, the summit of the lowermost floret extending a little beyond the apex of the large glume. Glumes unequal, acute, three-ribbed, the dorsal rib minutely toothed on the upper third. Florets of two paleze, not webbed, the outer palea of lowermost floret five-ribbed, the dorsal and marginal ribs hairy on the lower half, the one on each side of the dorsal very indistinct, not hairy, (best seen when the palea is opened and held between the lens and light). Inner palea about equal in length to the outer, with two green ribs minutely fringed. Pedicle of second floret roughish on one side. Filaments three. Anthers notched at each extremity. Ovarium obovate. Styles two, distinct. Stigmas feathery. Obs.—Poa Parnellii is more closely allied to Poa polynoda than to any other of the British Poas. It is, however, distinguished from Poa polynoda in the ligule bemg much shorter and more obtuse, and about six times as broad as long, (Fig. 6) ; lower part of the rachis Poa Parnellii, Babington’s Manual of British Botany, wy wr we wwe wwe” ‘ Cee ee ur ye" TT 2mm mms MRD MAMAN inner Gellatly. Froded by J 2 Parneii_ MD del? z senip® Published by W~ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & Londo. GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 211 scarcely smaller than the stem, (Fig. 1); upper sheath longer ; pa- nicle larger and more lax; ribs of the outer palea less perceptible. Glumes more acute; spikelets fewer, flowered ;—whereas in Poa polynoda the ligule is prominent, rounded at the summit, and about twice as broad as long; lower part of the rachis much smaller than the stem ; wpper sheath about as long as its leaf; panicle small and contracted ; ribs of outer palea more distinct ; glumes broader, and nearly of equal size; spikelets four or five, flowered. Poa Parnellii is distinguished from Poa nemoralis in the florets not being webbed; upper sheath longer than its leaf;—whereas in Poa nemoralis the florets are distinctly webbed, and the wpper sheath is shorter than its leaf. Poa Parnellii is distinguished from Poa Balfouri in the florets not being webbed. Upper joint situated about the middle of the stem. Ligule short and blunt, about six times as broad as long ;— whereas in Poa Balfouri the florets are distinctly webbed. Joints situated far below the centre of the stem. Ligule prominent, blunt, about as long as broad. This grass was discovered by Mr. Babington, about two years ago, at High-force in Teesdale, growing in sheltered and rocky situations. It has since been found in other parts of England. Its agricultural merits probably rank with Poa nemoralis. Flowers in July. Explanation of Plate XCIII. Poa Pits: natural size. Fig. 1. Part of the rachis and branches. . Spikelet, showing the two glumes and three florets. . Glumes. Magnified. 2 3 4, Floret, showing the two palez. 5. Outer palea opened, showing the five ribs. 6. Ligule of upper sheath. 7. Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales, ) 212 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. Poa ALPINA (variety) VIVIPARA. Viviparous Alpine_Meadow-Grass. Plate XCIV. This variety*is frequent on most of the lofty mountains in Scot- land, Ireland,’and Wales, growing on the ridges of wet rocks, usually at an elevation of about 3600 feet above the level of the sea. The principal:mark of distinction in this variety rests on, the transforma- tion of the inner palea into leaves. The only plant it is likely to be mistaken for is Poa lara, figured in Plate XX XVIII’; from which it differs in the whole plant be- ing stouter. Root tufted. Glumes rounded at the base. Leaves broader, shorter, more linear, folded and rounded at the summit, and terminating in a minute mucro;—whereas in Poa laxa the whole plant is more slender. Root not tufted. Glumes forming an ob- tuse angle at the base. Leaves flat, lanceolate, and acute. Poa laxa was formerly considered to be a very rare British grass, found only on Ben Nevis. Professor Balfour, however, has recently discovered it growing plentifully on the rocks at Lochnagar, where he gathered nearly a hundred specimens, both in the natural and viviparous state. Explanation of Plate XCIV. Poa alpina (variety) vivipara, na- tural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet, showing the two glumes and florets. 7 2. Glumes, = 3, Florets in a viviparous state, the inner palea and upper florets trans- | = formed into leaves. 5. Upper leaf, showing the blunt ligule and rounded summit ; the back 4. Ligule of upper sheath. and margins minutely toothed. Edinburgh &Lonaon. Sons- | - 214 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. Poa FLUITANS (variety) SUBSPICATA. Spike-like Floating Meadow-Grass. Plate XCV. This variety is distinguished from Poa jfluitans, figured in Plate XLV. in the leaves being narrower and more acute; the inflores- cence of a spike-like form and the anthers more than double the size. It is a frequent grass in Scotland, growing in moist ground of the richest kind, principally in meadows. It delights in the mar- gins of pools and in slow-running streams, and frequently forms a portion of the best pasturage for cows. Care must be taken not to confound this grass with Bucetum lolia- ceum (variety) elongatum, figured in Plate CXIV. to which it bears a great resemblance, and is frequently found in the same situations. It is, however, very easily distinguished by the long ligule of the up- per sheath, (Fig. 6,) and the ower palea with seven ribs minutely toothed, (Fig. 4) ;—while in Bucetum loliaceum (variety) elongatum, the ligule is very short, (Fig. 5,) and the outer palea has but five ribs, smooth, (Fig. 3.) It is also distinguished from Lolium perenne by the same characters, and in having two glumes instead of only one. The accompanying figure was drawn from a specimen gathered near Killin, Perthshire. Flowers in the second week of July, and ripens its seed about the end of August. Explanation of Plate XCV. Poa jfluitans (variety) subspicata, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet, showing the two glumes and eleven florets. 2. Glumes very unequal. 3. Floret, showing the outer and inner palee. 4, Outer palea opened, showing the seven rough ribs. 5. Inner palea minutely fringed at the margins and cloyen at a? Magnified, 6. Upper leaf folded, showing the long acute ligule. 7. Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales. 3 * alter iit H UMN Macwnaey,, mn te ba va Sty | es) yin eS msc Ps 5 ‘ : sO ia aan = : ~~ ane Ki A Aa tng HON Nyy stam ro a panrnitall yn ¢ eS a ‘ey A OT ni anes mm 4. pln TP. Se ‘by We Blackwood & Sons. spn vgn nem eet ten Man wi Ml at. Mey - = teeta bel * Nae od ee aah let are y RA St *] W Aponte bel ene td | 4 reek (toa) OS. 4 ‘ i’ - ay | X) prs , spl heis a te Td : ie “ne OBE peor it yee aot ins age ay ests a AHO, b RPE hie Bees ARN OG Xo oily Legebaw Beet Tiadeoinre, 2 eden he dae: Srariraidtery: shen ing pee alt tale Ri iay oun ot dane SRD Sais et (Te hi si Poh bLy L : es Le nes. Sakae YK 7 A ald Vid Tw . i? oe) ipa ty » Oat SN 6 Mf bd 7 f * ee RPA OWT, FO eet ied” OM sep eA? TaD, EWE rs Pine ad) ODT wath Salty lh, hoe pape yee) or Serer yt As foil BAS Pees il + f Ae ES Fy oan ‘As; TiN. Mpireats 14 sed) ih eo Ld) etl nen hs Bet gnc es aio % heb GY SL Re et | Ldihis piri mel ee Scihin (dio 9 ae ey? wehag il eet erin’! cage t met Le ihe Pa iiitses Wah ya Shy 2 ei Bs i es Dsdtipn i '-a9< On Tort. etl athe SURI Pe Ae ’ tH a) 2 aa 4 216 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. Poa DISTANS (variety) OBTUSA. Babington’s Meadow- Grass. Plate XCVI. This unusual variety of Poa distans I received from Mr Babing- ton, who gathered it at Breeden, Leicestershire, where it grows in great quantity and is annually cut for hay. It differs in some re- spects from the more common form of Poa distans, as figured in Plate XLI., viz. in the spikelets being larger, the ligules shorter, and the outer palea broader and more obtuse; and in case it might here- after be considered as a distinct species, I have deemed it necessary to give a full description of the whole plant. Description.—Root perennial, fibrous, producing several stems from three to fifteen inches in length. Stems erect, compressed, smooth, striated, and polished, bearing four or five leaves with smooth striated sheaths, upper sheath much longer than its leaf. Ligule of upper sheath short and obtuse, about one-third as long as broad. Joints four, mostly covered by the sheaths, the upper joint situated about the middle of the stem. eaves short, smooth behind, rough on the inner surface, with eight or nine prominent ribs, the margins mostly involute when dry. Inflorescence compound panicled, rather close; rachis and branches strongly grooved, rough to the touch, the branches arising from the lower half of the rachis in threes or fives. Spikelets lmear, composed of two glumes and about seven florets. Glumes unequal, obtuse, membranous at the margins, slightly three-ribbed, the outer glume much the smaller. orets of two palez, outer palea of lowermost floret about one-fourth longer than the large glume, obtuse, the back straight, slightly hairy at the base, five-ribbed, the ribs prominent, the middle one not reaching to the top. Inner palea rather shorter than the outer, with two green ribs delicately fringed. Styles two, distinct, very short. Stigmas feathery. Filaments three. -Anthers notched at each end. Scales acute. Obs.—This plant is distinguished from Poa maritima in the ligule being shorter and more obtuse ; owter palea broader and more ob- Printed ty I Gellatby. Edinburgh & London. Tia ¢ “V ies GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 21g tuse; the ribs of the upper leaf more numerous and distinct; and the anthers about one-third of the size. It is likewise distinguished from Poa Borreri in the spikelets being larger, the panicle not so much contracted, and the outer palea considerably more obtuse. These characters, although not very prominent, are quite sufficient to distinguish the species. Explanation of Plate XCVI. Poa distans (variety) obtusa, natu- ral size. 2. Glumes. 3. Floret, showing the two palez. 4, Outer palea opened, showing the five ribs and obtuse summit, 5 6 Magnified, . Ligule of upper sheath. Fig. 1. Spikelet, showing the two glumes and seven florets. ais | . Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales. J 218 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. Poa DISTANS (variety) MINOR. Babington’s Reflex Meadow-Grrass. Plate XCVII. This variety seems to be the same as the preceding, differing only in being of smaller growth, with spikelets of fewer florets. It was gathered at Breeden by Mr Babington, who sent me specimens, from which the accompanying figure was taken. Flowers in July. Explanation of Plate XC VII. Poa distans (variety) minor, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelets, showing the two glumes and four florets. 2. Glumes, 3. Floret, showing the two palee: 4, Outer palea opened, showing the five ribs and obtuse summit. 5. Ligule of upper sheath. 6. Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales. Magnified, Sa Se rete eae ee yl . >) * aaa asl Be arm nmane wages TA asadisemmladadsanenel ca an eee te nemnmreenae 4A WH Domne mn Prinzed by J Gelatly. - Published. by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London: aye Sep nigash Sout sty ton SEP be Mics Ss ties SS AR Ie'T “ginko Pts aXe 220 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. Poa Borrert. Borrerian Meadow-Grass. Plate XCVIII. Specific Characters.—Branches and rachis rough. Ligule obtuse. Ribs of florets not prominent. Florets five-ribbed. Branches of pa- nicle erect. Florets not webbed. Description.—Root annual, fibrous, producing stems from three to eight inches in length. Stems more or less prostrate, slightly compressed, smooth, hollow, striated, and polished, bearing three or four leaves with smooth, striated sheaths; the upper sheath much longer than its leaf. Ligule of upper sheath short and blunt, the length about equal to half the breadth. Joints usually two, co- vered by the sheaths, situated near the base of the stem. Leaves short, rough on both surfaces except on the lower half of the outer surface, the margins involute, especially when dry. Inflorescence on the upper part racemed, on the lower simple and compound pani- cled, the branches arising from the rachis alternately, mostly in pairs of unequal lengths, seldom spreading, never deflexed ; the rachis and branches rough, with minute teeth directed upwards. Spzkelets si- tuated in front of the rachis, somewhat linear, composed of two glumes and four or five florets, the summit of lowermost floret extending be- yond the large glume. Glwmes unequal, obtuse, membranous at the margins ; outer glume the smaller, without lateral ribs ; inner glume three-ribbed, the ribs not prominent. Forets of two pale; outer palea of lowermost floret five-ribbed, the middle rib extending to the summit. Inner palea rather shorter than the outer, with two green ribs delicately fringed. The whole plant presents a rigid, glaucous, compact appearance. Obs.—Poa Borreri is so closely allied to Poa procumbens that it is difficult to point out a good specific character to distinguish them ; yet, at the same time, I believe the two plants to be perfectly dis- tinct; the only distinguishable character, however, being, that in Poa Borreri the spikelets are about half the size, of a less linear form, and the ribs of the florets less prominent. Sclerochloa Borreri, Babington, PLATE XCVHT. Printed. by J. Gellatly, RParnd.MD. del! et seudp® Fublished by W™ Blackwood & Sous. Edinburgh & London. ee GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 221 Poa Borreri is distinguished from Poa maritima in the spikelets not being half the size; panicle more rigid and compact; and the Lgule shorter and more blunt. Poa Borreri is distinguished from Poa distans in the panicle being more rigid and compact ; the branches never deflexed; and the middle rib of the florets reaching to the summit. Mr Babington, in a supplement to Sowerby’s English Botany, t. 2797, has figured and described this grass, but the figure does not appear to be very characteristic of the plant. He states that it is far from being uncommon on the English coast, having been gathered by Mr Borrer at Gosport, Selsea, Southampton, Stokes Bay, Shore- ham, and Freshwater in the Isle of Wight. Mr Babington has no- ticed it at Harwich, and on the Canvey Isle, near the mouth of the Thames. It is found mostly in brackish ditches, often in com- pany with Poa procumbens. Flowers in July. May not this plant prove to be Glyceria festucaeformis, as described in Koch’s Synopsis Flore Germanice? “ panicula equali patente, ra- mis fructiferis erecto-patulis, spiculis 5-9 floris, floribus lineari-ob- longis, obtusis breviterque apiculatis, obsolete 5-nerviis, radice fibrosa.” The accompanying figure was taken from a specimen gathered at Southampton. Explanation of Plate XCVIII. Poa Borreri, natural size. Part of the rachis and branches, . Spikelet, showing the two glumes and five florets. Glumes very unequal. . Floret, showing the two palez. . Outer palea, showing the five ribs, with the middle rib extending to the sum- mit. 6. Ligule of upper sheath. 7. Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales, Fig. gt oo Do Magnified, -——-—-+-- YS pega GRASSES OF BRITAIN. Poa MARITIMA (variety) HISPIDA. Rough Sea Meadow- Grass. Plate XCIX. This variety is distinguished from Poa maritima, figured in Plate XLIL, in the stem being compressed, the rachis furrowed on one side, and the branches rough with small tooth-like bristles. In other respects the two plants are nearly similar. This grass was sent me by Mr Babington, who gathered it in Suffolk, and who justly considers it to be the Sclerochloa maritima, described by Fries. Explanation of Plate XCTX. Poa maritima (variety) hispida, na- tural size. Fig. 1. Rachis and branches, showing the tooth-like bristles. Spikelet, showing the two glumes and seven florets. Glumes. . Floret, showing the two palee. Outer palea, showing the five ribs, with the middle rib extending to the sum- mit, Ligule of the upper sheath, and ribs of the leaf, four of which are but faintly marked, the central rib being very distinct, with a deep groove on each side. or me ww bo S —— ——— + - ——-—-—— Magnified ~ 7. Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales. Printed by J Gellatly. meal a Px hate = eye ‘Published by W2 Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. hed. i oe & 4 ¢ 45" ee Rigel) oe rs “4 224 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. . Poa syLVATICA (variety) SUBARISTATA, Wood-Reed Meadow- Grass. Plate C. This variety is distinguished by the middle rib of the outer palea extending to or a little beyond the summit, in the form of a rough point or very short awn. In other respects it is similar to Poa Syl- vatica, described in page 99. It is found in damp woods of rich soil in mountainous districts of England, Ireland, and Scotland. Flowers in the middle of July, and ripens its seed in the second week of August. The seeds, when mature, become very deciduous. ’ The accompanying figure was drawn from a specimen gathered near Killin, Perthshire. Explanation of Plate C. Poa Sylvatica (variety) subaristata, na- tural size. Fig. 1. Scales at the base of the stem peculiar to this species. 2. Ligule of upper sheath. 3. Spikelet, showing the two glumes and three florets. 4, Glumes. 5. Floret, showing the two palez. 6. Outer palea, showing the three ribs, the middle rib extending to or beyond the summit, and toothed the whole length. 7. Pistils, stamens, scales, and hairy ovarium. Magnified, aa ne m Pr a iad ean MCit eR vagy “4 dickesnyp L | H anarucly { ‘ > Ss 226 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. BrizA MINOR. Small Quaking-Grass. Plate CI. Specific Character.—Ligule lanceolate. Description.—Root annual, fibrous, producing stems from four to six inches in length. Stems hollow, smooth, round, bearing five or six leaves with smooth, striated sheaths; the upper sheath longer than its leaf. Ligule of upper sheath lanceolate, about three times as long as broad. Joints usually five, the upper situated about the centre of the stem and generally covered by the sheath. eaves flat, acute, slightly roughish on both surfaces, the margins minutely toothed. Inflorescence compound panicled, the branches roughish, slender, ele- gantly divaricated, arising from the rachis mostly in pairs, Spehelets compressed, of a triangular form, variegated with green and white, and sometimes purple, composed of two glumes and five or six florets. Glumes equal, membranous at the margins, three-ribbed, broad and obtuse. Florets of two unequal palez ; the outer palea of lowermost floret broad, obtuse, strikingly gibbous behind, membranous at the margins, lobed at the base in front, without lateral ribs. Inner palea thin, flat, and furnished with two broad, green ribs. Styles two, dis- tinct. Stigmas feathery. Filaments three, slender. Anthers notched at each end. Scales two, acute. Obs.—Briza minor is distinguished from Briza media in the ligule being long and pointed; glumes longer than the lowermost floret ; —while in Briza media the ligule is short and blunt, and the glumes shorter than the lowermost floret. This is a very rare grass, found growing in dry sandy fields in the extreme south of England. It is also met with in Guernsey and Jersey, as well as in France, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Turkey, Greece, and North Africa. Briza minor, Linn., Hooker, Smith, Bab,, With., Koch, Kunth, Briza aspera, Knapp. Ad Published byW* Blackwood &Sons Edinburghklondon. “re - dj Pg i eS oa okae ° GRASSES OF BRITAIN. _ : 997 ae) Sloe bs Felyy aad sipeas Hmed seul ths cal of Ast or no important agricultural use. The accompanying figure was taken from a specimen gathered in Cornwall. = Explanation of Plate CI. Briza minor, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet, showing the two glumes and six florets. 2. Giumes. 2 S |? 228 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. CaATABROSA AQUATICA (variety) LITTORALIS. Small Water Hair-Grass. Plate CII. This variety appears to be the same as that mentioned by Sir Wil- liam Hooker in his British Flora, gathered by Mr Wilson on the north shore of Liverpool. I find it common in many places on the west coast of Scotland, growing on the sandy shore within the influ- ence of the tide, forming large patches of nearly half an acre in ex- tent, and sending out shoots in all directions, often to the extent of several feet. The pasture formed of this grass is extremely palatable to cattle, as containing a large portion of saccharine matter, but, as it grows only in wet places, becomes of little agricultural importance. It possesses the same properties as Catabrosa aquatica, described in page 47, and differs from it only in being of smaller growth, with the glumes containing mostly but one floret. The root is perennial, fibrous, throwing out several prostrate stems, which take root at their joints. Stem hollow, smooth. eaves and sheaths smooth. Ligule prominent, about as long as broad, very thin. Aachis and branches (when magnified) minutely granulated. Spzkelets composed of two glumes, and one or two florets; the glumes very unequal, without lateral ribs, the lower one much the smaller. Florets obtuse at their summits, three-ribbed ; lowermost floret longer than the glumes; se- cond floret elevated on a footstalk, about half the length of the floret ; frequently the second floret is altogether wanting. Inner palea ra- ther shorter than the outer palea, obtuse, furnished with a green mar- ginal rib on each side, not fringed. Styles short, distinct, terminal. Stigmas feathery. Filaments slender. _Anthers notched at each end. Scales pointed. This grass might possibly be mistaken for a Poa, an Aira, or an Agrostis. Tt is distinguished from a Poa in the glumes containing not more than two florets, and frequently only one floret; from an Aira in the outer palea not being awned; and from an Agrostis in the 3 \ “ce ~ | ve (a ata, f re ee “ east Printed by J Gellatly. say si so aaa i cA vs . ) a Gy, / ML | vor p, Mel EPEAT (GPL: L GG 4 A y So i. ns j “eee e e "4 f r no J - = > z te] Vb Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. tata RParndll.MD. del! & siuép ——s sl ae CC a ba ee ny : a? » ; é 5 aH : a : a . + Hf . / 7 ; .¥ ) Ve. GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 229 Jiorets being longer than the glumes. There are many other cha- racters which could be enumerated, but these will be found sufficient. The seeds and young shoots have the taste of liquorice, which is pe- culiar to this species. The accompanying figure was taken from a specimen gathered on the west coast of Cantire, near Killean. Explanation of Plate CI. Catabrosa aquatica (var.) littoralis, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet of two florets. . Spikelet of one floret. . Glumes. ig. 1. 2 3 4, Lowermost floret, showing the outer and inner palez. 5 6 7 — Magnified, . Ligule of upper leaf. - Portion of the rachis and branches, showing the granular appearance. . Pistils, stamens, and scales, 230 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. MOoLINIA C@RULEA (variety) BREVIRAMOSA. Small Purple Melic-Grass. Plate CII. This variety is the same as Molinia cerulea, described in page 46, differing only in being smaller, and the branches of the panicle much shorter, presenting a more compact appearance. It isa very frequent grass on moors, growing on peaty soil, in which the strong fibrous roots penetrate to a considerable depth, taking a strong hold. It is readily distinguished by its dark purple inflorescence, especially in the month of August, at which time it is in full flower. Sheep eat the leaves when young; the stems they leave untouched, as being hard and nearly solid. The accompanying figure was taken from a specimen gathered in Cantire. Explanation of Plate CII. Molinia ceerulea (variety) breviramosa, natural size. Fig. 1, Spikelet, showing the two glumes and two florets, and a rudiment of a third ) floret. . Glumes. . Two florets, showing the palez. . Ligule a tuft of hairs. . Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales, J Gr om sb po Magnified. , PT id lath g ‘ i ; : “ - - ml aR RPE A a OE eee Rea: Wet Soe & ge = FA, eg Zoo GRASSES OF BRITAIN. AIRA C#ESPITOSA. Tufted Hair-Grass. Plate CIV. In Plate XXIII. a figure is given, intended to represent this grass in an early stage of growth. The present figure, however, represents the same plant in its full flowering stage. Description, see page 52. Explanation of Plate CIV. Aira cespitosa, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet, showing the glumes and two florets, a 2. Glumes. e 3. Florets removed from the glumes, showing the awns and palez. Ep 4, Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales. S 5. Ligule, natural size, f 40. cord /ulode Published by W= Blackwood & Sons. Eémburgh & London. 234 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. AIRA CHSPITOSA (varlety) LONGIARISTATA. Long-awned Tufted Hair-Grass. Plate CY. This variety is principally distinguished in the awn of the outer palea extending one-fourth of its length beyond the summit of the palea, and the spikelets of a dark chocolate colour, with a shade of purple tipped with white ; the sheaths and back of the leaves smooth ; in most other respects it is similar to the preceding. It is found oc- casionally on some of the mountains in Perthshire between three and four thousand feet above the level of the sea. The root is perennial, tufted, throwing out two or three stems from a foot to eighteen inches in length. Stems and sheaths perfectly smooth. Ligules prominent, acute. Leaves of the stem smooth behind, rough on the inner sur- face. Rachis and branches roughish, spreading while in flower. Spikelets of two, rarely three, florets. Glumes rather unequal, acute, roughish on their keels ; lower glume the shorter ; upper glume three- ribbed. Lower floret equal in length to the small glume, jagged on the summit, hairy at the base, without lateral ribs. Second floret on a long hairy footstalk, about half the length of the floret. Both flo- rets awned. -Awn arising from a little above the base of the outer palea, and extending about one-fourth of its length beyond the sum- mit of the floret, (Fig. 3.) Styles short. Stigmas prominent and feathery. Filament slender. Anthers notched at each extremity. This grass is distinguished from Azra flexuosa, the only grass it is likely to be confounded with, in the leaves being flat; sheaths smooth ; second floret extending beyond the summit of the large glume ; foot- stalk of the second floret about half the length of the floret ;—whereas in Aira flexuosa the leaves are round; the sheaths roughish from above downwards ; second floret not extending beyond the large glume ; footstalk. of the second floret not more than one-fifth the length of the floret. Printed by J Gellatly. Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 235 The accompanying figure was taken from a specimen gathered on Ben Lawers in the month of July. Explanation of Plate CV. Aira cespitosa (variety) longiaristata, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet, showing the glumes and two florets, 2. Glumes. 3. Two florets removed from the glumes, showing the inner palee and footstalk of a third floret. 4, Pistils, stamens, and scales. . Ligule long and acute, natural size. —--- caet eit, Magnified, Or 236 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. AIRA CSPITOSA (variety) BREVIFOLIA. Short-leaved Tufted Hair-Grass. Plate CVI. This variety of Aira cespitosa is found growing near the summit of some of the highest mountains in Scotland, between 3000 and 4000 feet above the level of the sea. It is principally distinguished by its short radieal leaves, smooth sheaths and stem, small panicle, and dark chocolate colour spikelets tipped with white. The root is peren- nial, fibrous, tufted, producing seldom more than one stem, which is usually about a foot in length, perfectly smooth. The sheaths long and smooth. Leaves short, flat, (usually folded, especially those of the root,) acute, rough, harsh, and strongly ribbed on the inner surface, nearly smooth behind. gules prominent, acute. Rachis and branches rough. Spikelets rather large, composed of two glumes and two awned florets, with the footstalk of a third floret. Glumes nearly of equal lengths, acute ; the upper glume three-ribbed, the lower without lateral ribs. Lowermost floret rather shorter than the lower glume, jagged or toothed at the summit, hairy at the base, bearing a rough slender awn arising from a little above the base and not extending beyond the summit of the palea, (Fig. 3.) Second floret the same as the first, except being raised on a long hairy foot- stalk about one-third the length of the floret. Styles short, distinct. Stigmas prominent, feathery. Filaments slender. Anthers notched at each end. It is distinguished from the preceding variety in the whole plant being smaller; the leaves shorter; awns of the florets not extending beyond their summits; and the second floret but slightly projecting beyond the glumes. It is likewise distinguished from Azra alpina in the awn arising from a little above the base of the floret instead of above the centre. From Aira flexuosa in the sheaths bemg quite smooth to the touch, and the awns not projecting beyond the summits of the florets ;— whereas in Aira flexuosa the sheaths are rough (from above down- wards,) and the awns of the florets extend about one-third their eS oe St a Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 2357 length beyond the florets; the /eaves also are more slender and near- ly round. This grass is of no agricultural use, as sheep seldom or never eat it. It flowers in the first week of August. The accompanying figure was taken from a specimen gathered on the mountains near Killin, about 3000 feet above the level of the sea. Explanation of Plate CVI. Aira cespitosa (variety) brevifolia, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet, showing the two glumes and two florets, with the footstalk of » a third floret. 2 2. Glumes. ‘6 3. Two florets, showing the inner palee. = 4, Pistils, stamens, and scales, j, 5. Ligule long and pointed, natural size. 238 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. ATRA FLEXUOSA. Wavy Mountain Hair-Grass. Plate CVII. Specific Characters.—Awn arising from a little above the base of the outer palea, and extending about one-fourth of its length beyond the summit of the palea. Description.—Root perennial, fibrous, woolly in sandy ground. Stem hollow, erect, flattish, smooth, striated, and frequently of a pur- ple tinge, from twelve to eighteen inches high, bearing three or four leaves with roughish, striated sheaths (the roughness is distinctly felt by passing the finger down the sheath); upper sheath about twice the length of the leaf. Ligule of upper sheath prominent, about as long as broad, almost always cloven and rounded at the summit. Joints three, smooth. eaves very narrow, fleshy, subterete, the upper leaf rough the whole length, those from the root smooth, except towards their points; in dry exposed situations the radi- cal leaves are short and curved; while in woods or shady places they are long and of a dark green, the base surrounded with brown, thin, withered sheaths of former years. Panicle erect, spreading, the branches slender, rough, slightly wavy, mostly triple-forked ; rachis wavy, smooth below, rough above. Spikelets of a brownish glossy copper colour, composed of two glumes and two awned florets with the rudiment of a third. Glwmes rather unequal, membranous, with- out lateral ribs, slightly roughish on their keels. /orets concealed within the glumes; outer palea of lowermost floret notched or jagged at the summit, hairy at the base, very faintly five-ribbed, furnished with a slender rough awn arising from a little above the base and extending about one-fourth of its length beyond the summit. Inner palea about the length of the outer, very thin, acute, often bifid, mi- nutely fringed atthe margins. Second floret rather the smaller, ona short hairy footstalk about one-fifth the length of the floret; in other respects the two florets are similar. Styles short. Stgmas promi- nent and feathery. Filaments slender. Anthers notched at each end. Scales pointed. Obs.— Aira flexuosa is distinguished from Aira cespitosa in the h- gule being obtuse, and about as long as broad; awn extending about Printed by I Gellatly burgh & London. a Published. by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edin GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 239 one-fourth of its length beyond the summit of the outer palea ; foot- stalk of the second floret less than one-fourth the length of the floret ; —whereas in Aira cespitosa the ligule of upper sheath is long and acute, twice as long as broad; awn not extending more than one- eighth itslength beyond the summit of the outer palea, very often much less ; footstalk of the second floret about half the length of the floret. Aira flexuosa is distinguished from Aira caryophyllea in the ligule of upper sheath being obtuse, and about as long as broad; outer palea jagged at the summit, not beaked; sheaths of leaves rough only when felt from above downwards ;—whereas in Aira caryophyllea the ligule of upper sheath is acute, and long, nearly twice as long as broad ; outer palea somewhat beaked at the summit; sheaths of leaves rough only when felt from below upwards ; the spzhelets not half the size. Aira flexuosa is distinguished from Azra precor in being a much larger plant with a spreading panicle; ligule obtuse, and about as long as broad; sheath of leaves rough only when felt from above downwards; awn extending about one-fourth of its length beyond the summit of the outer palea ;—whereas in Azra precox the panicle is contracted, close; ligule long and acute, about twice as long as broad ; sheaths of leaves rough only when felt from below upwards ; awn extending half its length beyond the summit of the palea. The accompanying figure was taken from a specimen gathered in the neighbourhood of Edinburgh. Explanation of Plate CVII. Aira flexuosa, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet, showing the glumes and two florefs. — 2. The two florets removed from the glumes, showing the awns and inner fs palea. & 3. Ligule almost always cloven. = 4, Pistils, stamens, and scales. J I previously noticed this plant among the grasses of Scotland, but the figure and description there given were not sufficiently minute to distinguish it from some of the more closely allied species. I scarcely think this plant to be the Aira flexuosa of Smith, since in the English Flora it is stated that the awn arises from the middle of the outer valve, and is ¢wice as long as the glumes. For further description see pages 55 and 56. 240 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. AIRA FLEXUOSA (variety) MONTANA. Slender Mountain Hair- Grass. Plate CVIII. This variety is frequent on the Highland moors, growing on peaty soil among heather; flowering in the first week of August. It is principally distinguished from the preceding in being of a more slen- der habit; Zigules more acute, and the lowermost floret projecting conspicuously beyond the small glume. In other respects the two plants are similar. The accompanying figure was drawn from a specimen gathered on Ben Lawers. Explanation of Plate CVIU. Aira flexuosa (variety) montana, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet, showing the glumes and floret. 2. Florets removed from the glumes, showing the inner palez and awns, 3. Ligule cloven. 4. Pistils, stamens, and scales. Magnified. Printed by J Gellatly. 7 i a aE at nem re NNN HNN RParnell. MD.del* at sculp® by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. Published - ie Beeld ay } yts Bsr nlite ees ¥. (Ore aT oY, BB “" ey 4 at Y Ay 1* Z a raA ‘aa 4 rahe test oem iat ayy a eh ' herb, 3 a aaa ate aly yt FERS Ne {3 mieth > eyes 242 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. AIRA ALPINA (variety) VIVIPARA. Viviparous Alpine Hair-Grass. Plate CIX. This grass seenis to be the Aira levigata figured in the English Bo- tany, t. 2102, which, according to Sir William Hooker and other bo- tanists, is the Azra alpina in a viviparous state. It is frequently met with on several of the Scottish mountains, growing among moist or wet rocks, usually at an altitude of between three and four thousand feet above the level of the sea. It is said also to grow on some of the higher mountains in Wales. The root is perennial, fibrous, tufted, bearing a short, stout, perfectly-smooth stem. Sheaths smooth. Ligule prominent and acute. Leaves acute, harsh, flat, (those of the root mostly folded), rough and strongly ribbed on the inner surface, smooth behind. achis and branches perfectly smooth. Spikelet composed of two glumes and two florets, the florets being transformed into small linear leaves curved at the summit, or frequently terminat- ing in a small rough point or awn. Glumes nearly equal, membran- ous, tinged with purple, while the leafy florets are of a light green. None of the viviparous grasses produce seed; they propagate their species through the medium of their florets, which fall and take root. The most prominent marks of distinction in this grass, independent of its viviparous form, rest in the stem, sheaths, back of the leaves, rachis, and branches being perfectly smooth. The accompanying figure was drawn from a specimen gathered on Ben Lawers. Explanation of Plate CLIX. Aira alpina (variety) vivipara, natu- ral size. Fig. 1. Spikelet, showing the glumes and florets. 2. Glumes. 3. Florets transformed into small leaves, 4 Magnified. ItAeaceene ede GRA ts ual IE prryousiwene J Gellathy. by Prowed Re Parnell MD del? scalp? Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh &London. 244 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. AIRA CANESCENS. Clubbed Hair-Grass. Plate CX. Specific Characters.—Awns clavate, fringed in the centre. Description.—Root annual or biennial, fibrous, producing stems from six to fourteen inches in length. Stems erect, round, smooth, hollow, bearing four or five leaves with rough, striated sheaths; the upper leaf shorter than its sheath. Ligule of upper sheath promi- nent, acute, about twice as long as broad. Joints about three, the upper usually naked. Leaves setaceous, short, rough, and glaucous. Inflorescence compound panicled, spreading while in flower, otherwise close, frequently tinged with purple; the branches rough; the rachis mostly smooth. Spikelets composed of two glumes and two florets. Glumes of about equal lengths, membranous, acute, without lateral ribs, minutely toothed on their keels. Florets shorter than the glumes, of two palee; the outer palea acute, not beaked or bifid at the sum- mit, without lateral ribs, hairy at the base, furnished with a long dorsal awn; the inner palea membranous, narrow, notched at the summit, smooth on the lateral folds, and about the length of the outer palea. Awn arising from a little above the base of the outer palea, and extending half its length beyond the palea, club-shaped above, and furnished in the centre with a circular fringe. Styles two, short. Stigmas long and feathery. Filaments three, slender. Anthers short, dark purple. Obs.—Aira canescens is readily distinguished from all the other British grasses in the form of the awns of the florets, which are club- shaped and fringed in the centre, (see Fig. 3, magnified.) This is one of our rarest British grasses, found only on the sandy coasts of Dorset, Norfolk, and Suffolk. It is of more frequent oc- Awa canescens, Linn., Eng. Bot., Knapp, Schrad., Smith, Hooker. Corynephorus ca- nescens, Beauv., Koch, Kunth, Bab. 7 a — an a] AY * Whi Req mere nit gunenpr aunt in men aa eA asin isan so Om i N ‘mee: : wali cl aad mt Naty nee Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh &Lonaon. 254 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. BROMUS MAXIMUS. Great Brome-Grass. Plate CXV. Specific Characters.—Rachis pubescent. Awns longer than their florets. Outer palea equal in length to the large glume. Description.—Root annual, fibrous. Stem erect, hollow, round, slightly downy, from one to two feet high, bearing four or five leaves with striated sheaths ; upper sheath rather longer than its leaf, smooth; the lower sheaths soft and downy. Ligule of upper sheath prominent, ragged, about as long as broad. Joints usually four, the upper one placed about the centre of the stem, mostly uncovered. Leaves flat, acute, downy on both sides, roughish on the margins. Inflorescence racemed, erect, the rachis and footstalks downy, (not in the slightest degree scabrous.) Spikelets lanceolate, about an inch and a quarter in length, and, including the awns, two inches and a half in length ; composed usually of eight-awned florets and two glumes, with downy footstalks not the length of the spikelets. Glumes unequal, not downy, minutely toothed on their keels; the outer one the smaller, about one-third shorter than the inner, of a lanceolate form, three-ribbed ; the inner much larger, of the same form, five-ribbed. Florets of two palez ; the outer palea of lowermost floret acutely lanceolate, as long as the large glume, very rough to the touch when felt from above downwards, (not downy), bifid at the summit, membranous and glossy at the margins, sharply pointed at the base, furnished with seven prominent rough ribs, the three cen- tral ribs continuous with the awn. Awns straight and rough, arising from a little below the bifid membranous summit of the outer palea ; the awn of the lowermost floret the shortest, which more than equals the length of the outer palea by one-half; none of the awns ever ex- ceed twice the length of their florets ; inner palea about one-third shorter than the other, very thin and membranous, linear-lanceo- late, fringed at the folds the whole length. Styles two, arising from the summit of the ovarium. Stigmas feathery. Filaments three. Anthers notched at each end. Scales acute. Bromus maximus, Desf., Kunth, Hooker, Bab. 4 Sen emu a ul iL UL ULM MLM NnuN oe Ma Wand eemetti torte teat “esa wi SSD Lavine nmenpiatat LS TAIAMTIUES . Proned by J. Gdllatly. by W* Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. Published 4h bat ik GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 255 Obs.— Bromus maximus is distinguished from Bromus sterilis, in the rachis and footstalks being downy and soft to the touch; Jower- most floret equal in length to the large glume :—whereas in Bromus sterilis the rachis and footstalks are hispid and very rough to the touch, and the lowermost floret is about one-fourth longer than the large glume. Bromus maximus is distinguished from Bromus diandrus in the lowermost floret being equal in length to the large glume ; awn of the floret longer than the outer palea by one-half or more; czner palea about one-third shorter than the outer palea; the 72 on each side of the central rib of the outer palea very distinct and prominent ;—whereas in Bromus diandrus the lowermost floret is longer than the large glume by one-fourth ; awn of the floret equal in length to the outer palea ; inner palea about equal in length to the outer palea; the 7% on each side of the central rib of the outer palea very indistinct. The peculiar, sharp, conical point at the base of the florets will readily distinguish Bromus maximus from all the other species of British Bromi. It is fortunate that this is so rare a British grass, as neither horses, cows, or sheep are fond of it or any other grass having soft downy leaves; besides which, the florets, when ripe, possess the property of insinuating themselves under the wool of sheep and entering the flesh to a considerable depth, thereby proving a great source of annoy- ance to the animal. It has been found by Mr Babington growing on the sands of St Aubin’s Bay, the Gréve d’Azette, and the Quin- vais, Jersey, but in no other part of Britain is it known to exist. It is also a native of France, Spain, and Africa. Flowers in June and July. The accompanying figure was taken from a specimen sent me by Mr Babington. Explanation of Plate CXV. Bromus maximus, natural size. Fig. 1. Part of the rachis and branches. . Glumes. . Floret. ip 2 3 * 4. Outer palea, showing the seven ribs. 5 6 | Magnified, . Ligule. . Ovarium, showing the styles arising from the summit, 256 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. Bromus MOLLIs. Soft Brome- Grass. Plate CX VI. As the Bromi are so liable to be confounded by young botanists, I have here given extra plates of some of the more closely allied spe- cies, pointing out more fully their specific distinctions and varieties. Bromus mollis is distinguished by the spikelets bemg hairy, with the apex of the large glume situated midway between the base of the glume and the summit of the third floret on the same side, as seen in Fig. 1. It is distinguished from Bromus racemosus, in the spikelets being hairy, and the middle 77 of the glumes not toothed ;—whereas in Bro- mus racemosus the spikelets are not hairy but glossy, and the middle rib or keels of the glumes minutely toothed on the upper half, (see Plate CXIX., Fig. 1.) Independent of the specific distinctions between these too closely allied species, they seem to differ somewhat in habit, although some authors have placed them as varieties. Explanation of Plate CX VI. Bromus mollis, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet, showing the two glumes and eleven florets. ) 2. Glumes. 3. Second Floret, showing the outer and inner palee, with an awn equal in length to its palea ; the awn of the lowermost florets being always | & shorter than its palea. 2 . Outer palea opened, showing the seven ribs. 3 . Inner palea, strongly fringed with stout bristly hairs. 2 . Ligule. . Ovarium, with the styles arising from below the summit. J IHD oP For further description see page 110. Bromus mollis, Linn., Smith, Hooker, With., Mackay, Koch, Kunth. Servafalcus mollis, Parlatore, Babington. ace naar ener eso i te HHO cos wnbraneonrre rtm om encanoiniasnraindlnoneney ‘a iM Pie sa —— ——— | Printed ty I Gllacly. Published a ; by W™ Blackwood & Sans. Zam! a ra 258 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. BRoMUS MOLLIs (variety) OVALIS. Soft Oval Brome-Grass. Plate CXVII. This variety differs from the preceding, in the spikelets being smaller, of an oval form, and the large glume rather longer in pro- portion, the apex of which being situated half-way between the base of the glume, and a little beyond the ¢hird floret on the same side, (see Fig. 1.) It has frequently been confounded with Bromus racemosus (variety) subsecalinus, Plate CX-X., to which it bears a great resemblance ; but the hairy spikelets and the absence of minute teeth on the upper part of the middle rib of the glumes and florets will readily distinguish it. It isa grass frequently met with throughout Britain, growing on dry, barren, sandy ground. In a dwarf state it might possibly be the Bromus nanus of Weigel, or Bromus mollis, var. 8, in Hooker’s Bri- tish Flora. Of no important agricultural use. Flowers early in June. Explanation of Plate CX VII. Bromus mollis (variety) ovalis, na- tural size. Fi g. 1. Spikelet, showing the two glumes and ten florets. Glumes. Second Floret, showing the palez, with an awn rather shorter than its palea. Outer palea opened, showing the seven ribs. Inner palea, fringed. Ligule. Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales. SN MOS op Magnified. A et NO NOR orton, 0 ee “tM yan lteter aannv sa cal ac i . Printed by J. Gellatly. RParndi MD det? & seudp® a & Sons. Edinburgh &Londcn. acikwoo Published by W™Bl 260 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. BroMUs MOLLIs (variety) PRATENSIS. Soft Long-glumed Brome-Grass. Plate CX VIII. This variety is distinguished from the two preceding in the spikelets not being quite so hairy, the hairs somewhat shorter, and the apex of the large glume being situated half-way between the base of the glume and the summit of the fourth floret on the same side, (see Fig. 1); the outer palea is also more acute, and longer in proportion to its breadth, (see Fig. 4.) Care must be taken so as not to confound this grass with Bromus racemosus, figured in the next plate; the hairy spikelets and toothless glumes, however, will readily distinguish it. The plant figured in the English Botany, p. 920, under the name of Bromus pratensis, is undoubtedly the same as the one here noticed. It is distinguished from Bromus commutatus, Plate CXXIV., in being slightly hairy, and in the apex of the large glume being si- tuated half-way between the base of the glume and the summit of the fourth floret on the same side;—while in Bromus commutatus the spikelets are not hairy, and the apex of the large glume is situated half-way between the base of the glume and the summit of the second floret on the same side. It is frequently met with both in England and Scotland, growing on poor ground, but is not so common as the two preceding. It is not relished by cattle, and produces a scanty supply of herbage. Flowers early in June. Explanation of Plate CX VIII. Bromus mollis (variety ) pratensis, natural size. Spikelet, showing the two glumes and nine florets. Fig. 2. Glumes hairy. | 1 2 3. Floret, showing the two palez. 4, Outer palea opened, showing the seven ribs, 5 6 7 Magnified. . Inner palea fringed. . Ligule. . Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales. 3 UW v) ( \ ra Ch anid nabs RParndt MD, del? et scuip HA AAAS SSH ici Printed by I Gellatly. Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. | _—~ ary Me : 7 pI D et SESS 4 “i= f. ‘ mer or EN be 8a ¢ zo aio: "a wen, 2. 262 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. BRoMUS RACEMOSUS. Smooth Brome-Grass. Plate CXIX. This grass is distinguished by the spikelets not being hairy, the middle ribs of the glumes minutely toothed on the upper half, (see Fig. 2,) and the apex of the large glume situated half-way between the base of the glume and the summit of the ¢hird floret on the same side, (see Fig. 1.) It is very easily distinguished from Bromus secalinus, Bromus com- mutatus, Bromus arvensis, Bromus patulus, and Bromus squarrosus by the comparative length of the large glume. Sir William Hooker, in his British Flora, is of opinion that this species is scarcely different from Bromus mollis, except in being more glabrous. I may here mention, however, that, independent of ab- sence of hairs on the spikelets, the outer palea is broader, and, when opened, its upper margins form an obtuse angle, (see Fig. 4), and the middle ribs of the glumes and florets are minutely toothed on their upper part ;—while in Bromus mollis the outer palea is not quite so broad and rather more rounded on its upper margins, and the mid- dle ribs of the glumes and florets have no teeth. For further description see page 111. Explanation of Plate CXIX. Bromus racemosus, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet, showing the two glumes and ten florets. 2, Glumes. 3. Floret, showing the outer and inner palez. 4, Outer palea opened, showing the seven ribs. 5. Inner palea fringed. 6. Ligule. 7. Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales. Magnified. Bromus racemosus, Linn., Hooker, Smith, Kunth, With. Serrafalcus racemosus, Par- latore, Babington. svevogntnnanngnanyemattoningty an gtiatnpmreosonevatunndansununviviadissiganuisiy cinnjeseaun noon nuninemnennsteunnnnuninununnarninnbusnticuiVit THAR ho eae ot srl So ny Pr ee go” Some Tay SR BR Printed by J. Gellatly. R Parnell. MD del? & scudp® “Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh &Londcn. 264 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. Bromus RACEMOSUS (variety) SUBSECALINUS. Smooth Oval Brome-Grass. Plate CXX. This variety differs from the preceding, merely in the spike- lets being smaller and of a more oval form. It is very liable to be mistaken for the following species, (Bromus secalinus,) from which it is distinguished in the outer palea when opened forming an obtuse angle on the upper half, and the apex of the large glume being situ- ated half-way between the base of the glume and a little beyond the summit of the third floret on the same side ;—while in Bromus secali- nus the upper half of the outer palea is very much rounded, and the apex of the large glume is half-way between the base of the glume and the summit of the second floret on the same side. It is a variety found growing with the preceding, and equally common. It is a very inferior grass for agricultural purposes. Flowers early in June. The accompanying figure was drawn from a specimen gathered near Edinburgh. Explanation of Plate CXX. Bromus racemosus (variety) subseca- linus, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet, showing the two glumes and nine florets. 2. Glumes. 3. Floret, showing the two palez. 4, Outer palea opened, showing the seven ribs. 5. Inner palea fringed. 6. Ligule. 7. Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales. Se Magnified. < Jigr : 7 ae oa so Sn rmmwmermennhinses srehimaa rena ie MiMALOU AULA UVIKTA TVRD SOHO DCL LI! enor Ree enue ony 4 COD rom SN EES i aT Mla HOTT Printed by J Gellatly. RParneil. MD. del? et scudp* §b & London. Published by W> Blackwood & Sons. Edinbur, 266 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. Bromus SECALINUS. Smooth Rye Brome-Grass. Plate CX XI. The description of this plant will be found in page 113. The characters by which it is distinguished from its congeners, are, in the apex of the large glume being situated half-way be- tween the base of the glume and the summit of the second floret on the same side (see Fig. 1); and in the outer palea being rounded on the upper margin with the breadth considerably greater than half its length (see Fig. 4.) Bromus secalinus is distinguished from Bromus commutatus (Plate CXXIV.) in the spikelets being shorter and not so acute; outer palea rounded on the upper margin, with the breadth considerably greater than half its length (Fig. 4.);—while in Bromus commutatus the spikelets are lanceolate ; outer paleu forming an obtuse angle on the upper half, with the breadth equal only to ha/f its length. Bromus secalinus is distinguished from Bromus arvensis (Plate CXXVI.) in the outer palea being considerably broader, with the upper margin more obtuse (see Fig. 4); inner palea shorter than the outer; and all the florets much longer than their awns ;—while in Bromus arvensis the outer palea is twice as long as broad, with the upper margin forming an obtuse angle (Fig. 4.); zner palea equal in length to the outer; and all the florets, except the lowermost, shorter than their awns. ‘The anthers also are much longer. Bromus secalinus is distinguished from Bromus patulus and Bro- mus squarrosus in the outer palea having seven ribs instead of nine, with the superior margin rounded instead of forming an obtuse an- gle. There are many other characters which could be enumerated, but these will be found sufficient at all times to distinguish the species. Explanation of Plate CX XI. Bromus secalinus, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet, showing the two glumes and seven florets. 2. Glumes. 3. Floret, showing the two palez. 4, Outer palea, showing the seven ribs. 5. Inner palea fringed. 6. Ligule. ] 7. Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales, 4 Magnified. 04m ANNAN Ue mans writ AiOWNNWaiy! Printed by J Gellatly. ee \ | ™ ON iy em PLATE CXXT. Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. a nn anal Oe Larned MD, del? & scaip® as) ; aha tha Pile ig sh : Whe er Oe 268 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. BroMUS SECALINUS (variety) VULGARIS. Pendulous Rye Brome-Grass. Plate CXXTI. This grass often grows to the height of three feet or more. The panicle at first is erect, bearing close compact spikelets with the mar- gins of the florets overlapping. As the seeds approach to maturity the panicle droops to a side, the spikelets become compressed and spreading, with the margins of the florets rolled in, thereby showing the rachis and the insertions of the florets. The spikelets are not hairy, the glumes toothed on the upper half of their keels. Outer palea seven-ribbed, the three central ones the most indistinct. Awn much shorter than the palea, never exceeding half its length. The apex of the large glume is half-way between the base of the glume and the summit of the second floret on the same side. The sheaths and leaves are covered with soft downy-like hairs. This variety differs from the preceding, in the spikelets being lar- ger, and when in seed heavier and consequently more-pendulous ; the outer palea less obtuse ; and the awns much shorter. It is a frequent plant in France and Germany, and is occasionally met with in this country growing among corn. In the young state it might be mistaken for Bromus commutatus, (Plate CX XIV.) from which it is distinguished by the awns being shorter and the outer palea broader, twice the breadth considerably more than equals its length;—while in Bromus commutatus twice the breadth of the outer palea exactly equals its length. In the more advanced stage the two plants become very distinct, as seen in the figures. Flowers in the middle of June, and ripens its seed in the first week of July. A very inferior grass for agricultural purposes. The accompanying figure was drawn from a specimen gathered near Edinburgh. Explanation of Plate CXXII. Bromus secalinus (variety) vul- garis, natural size. Printed by J Gellatly. tas cet AMA AranaNmHNHNIgUILAIAAN A senses iemmeraen Serentonapueinnnsnancomndvon iy \ PLALIE CXXI Li farrell MD deb? ct scudp® -Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinhurg:: & London. = if ney : ane rk me we sai ee ie i aie Wikots es Lek ea Pies jg ls pany hey Oe aS Cen ate AA Tee ink 7, 1, _ GRASSES OF BRITAIN. Fig. 1. Spikelets, showing the two glumes and nine florets. 2. Glumes. ; 3. Floret, showing the two palez. 4. Outer palea opened, showing the seven ribs. 5. Inner palea fringed. 6. Ligule. ; 7. Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales. / go C2 Mi > (here i ff ? et oS, hie: Vie? . ior’ eda At ere ee et NS awl a * | 9 270 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. BROMUS SECALINUS (variety) VELUTINUS. Downy Rye Brome-Grass. Plate CX XIII. This variety is distinguished from the two preceding in the glumes and florets being covered with soft downy-like hairs, and the outer palea not so broad and less obtuse. In its early stage of growth it bears all the appearance of a hairy variety of Bromus commutatus, from which it is with difficulty distinguished, but, as the seeds advance to maturity, the spikelets spread, and the margins of the florets become inflexed, assuming all the character of a secalinus, which so well marks the species. It is readily distinguished in all its stages of growth from Bromus mollis in the apex of the large glume being situated midway between the base of the glume and near the summit of the second floret on the same side ;—while in Bromus mollis the apex of the large glume is midway between the base of the glume and the summit of the third floret or beyond on the same side. As some of the species of this genus have been enveloped in such a mass of confusion, it is difficult to determine their correct synonyms. Koch states this plant to be the Bromus velutinus of Smith, but, judging from Smith’s description, they certainly bear very different characters. In the one the spikelets spread conspicuously, and the awns are much shorter than their florets ;—while in the other the spikelets are close and the awns are equal in length to their florets. This grass grows in the same situations as the preceding, but in no fixed station, and flowers about the same period. The accompanying figure was drawn from a specimen gathered in Lanarkshire. Explanation of Plate CX XIII. Bromus secalinus (variety) velu« tinus, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet, showing the two glumes and nine florets, . Glumes hairy. 1, 2 3. Floret, showing the two palez. 4, Outer palea, showing the seven ribs. 5 6 7 als . Inner palea fringed. . Ligule. Magnified. . Ovyarium, pistils, stamens, and scales, —— liatly. > A Sroned by. 4 linttd. + Vy) “ange gunn aun astsanainenuiniNiM iA iy oe é ) \ 4 PLATE CXXIMT se Ld | VOL dec Fublished by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. VALE, 7tlbd Cove Li Larne MD del? e seulp? nein Pe ig emo) ut 7 A ee, Ate STFS erp tts Te we! nal me 272 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. BROMUS COMMUTATUsS. Taper Field Brome-Grass. Plate CX XIV. This grass is the same as the one previously described in page 115, and figured in Plate XLIX. under the name of Bromus arvensis, which ought to have been named Bromus commutatus.* It is distin- guished from the Bromus arvensis of Linneus, (Plate CK XVI.,) nm the inner palea being shorter and more obtuse, not reaching further up than to the base of the awn; awns not so long as their florets ; and the anthers small ;—whereas in Bromus arvensis the inner palea is equal in length to the outer palea ; awns longer than their florets, except the lowermost ; and the anthers about four times as long as broad. Bromus commutatus is distinguished from Bromus patulus (Plate CXXVII.) in the owter palea having seven ribs, and all the florets longer than their awns;—while in Bromus patulus the outer palea has nine ribs; and all the florets are shorter than their awns, except the lowermost. Bromus commutatus is distinguished from Bromus squarrosus (Plate CX XVIII.) in the outer palea being twice as long as broad, and hay- ing seven ribs ; awns erect ;—whereas is Bromus squarrosus the outer palea is not twice as long as broad, and has nine ribs; awns diva- ricating, and arise further down from the summit of the outer palea. The accompanying figure was drawn from a specimen gathered near Edinburgh. Explanation of Plate CXXIV. Bromus commutatus, natural size. Fig, 1. Spikelet, showing the two glumes and eleven florets. ] 2. Glumes. 3. Floret, showing the two palez. 4, Outer palea opened, showing the seven ribs. 5. Inner palea fringed. 6. Ligule of upper sheath. 7. Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales. Magnified. a Bronvus conmutatus, Schrader, Koch. Serrafalcus commutatus, Parlatore, Babington. * See a valuable paper on the Bromi, by Mr Watson, im Lond. Journ. Bot., i. 82. CAYLOTN commulalied Printed by J Gellatly. Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. 974 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. BroMus COMMUTATUS (variety ) MULTIFLORUS. Large Taper-Field Brome-Grass. Plate CXXV. This variety differs from the preceding in being a larger plant; the spikelets longer; the outer palea broader in proportion to its length; and the apex of the large glume being situated half-way be- tween the base of the glume and a little beyond the summit of the second floret on the same side. In other respects the two plants are similar. It is distinguished from Bromus patulus, the only species it is likely to be confounded with, in the outer palea having seven ribs and the awn shorter than the palez ;—while in Bromus patulus the outer palea has nine ribs, and the awn is longer than the palea. It is found occasionally in the neighbourhood of Edinburgh, but by no means common. Flowers about the middle of June, and ripens its seed early in July. It is a grass that can be recommended for hay, provided it be cut during the period of its flowering, as the root produces many stems which grow from three to four feet high. When in seed the stems become hard, and possess then but little nutritive matter. The accompanying figure was drawn from a specimen gathered in a grass field near Granton. Explanation of Plate CXXV. Bromus commutatus (variety) multiflorus, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet, showing the two glumes and twelve florets. >} . Glumes. . Floret, showing the two palez. Outer palea opened, showing the seven ribs, . Inner palea fringed. . Ligule of upper sheath. . Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales. Magnified. SED Orr Dw le HE Printed by J GTlatky. PC er ee et Ms inisemmmninenamnnninniinnpngnnnneiunniniaiai ie Published by W™ Blackwood & Sous. Edinburgh & London. Amn TU NAAM aan yeuannenemeer FB Parndl ED. dei? at. seudp* ~ ATES SRS A coer) = Ee ha) + " ’ iC, ae ea 276 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. BroMUS ARVENSIS. Long-anthered Brome-Grass. Plate CXXVI. Specific Characters.—Panicle spreading. Palee equal. Outer palea seven-ribbed. Anthers four times as long as broad. Description.—Root annual, fibrous, producing many stems, from nine to eighteen inches in length. Stems erect, round, hard, nearly solid, smooth except just below the panicle ; bearing four or five leaves with striated sheaths shorter than their leaves, the upper sheath smooth or nearly so, the lower ones soft and pubescent. Lzgules pro- minent and jagged. Joints usually four, more or less hairy, mostly covered by the sheaths. Leaves narrow, flat, rough on the margins, hairy, especially on the upper surface. Inflorescence simple panicled, at first erect, spreading when in fruit, and at length somewhat droop- ing; the rachis and branches rough. Spzhelets linear-lanceolate, not hairy, usually of seven florets, awned, and frequently tinged with reddish-brown. Apex of large glume situated half-way between the base of the glume and the summit of the second floret on the same side, (see Fig. 1.) Glumes two, unequal, membranous at the mar- gins, roughish on the keels; outer glume the smaller, three-ribbed ; inner glume five-ribbed, and often somewhat awned by a slight elon- gation of the middle rib. Florets of two palee; the outer palea of lowermost floret longer than the glumes, seven-ribbed ; the two marginal ribs the most distinct ; the summit either bifid or entire, membranous, and glossy at the margins, the breadth equal to half its length, and, when opened, the margins above the centre exhibiting an obtuse angle, (Fig. 4); inner palea equal in length to the outer, thin, acute, white, and membranous, furnished with two green ribs fringed with stout white hairs. -Awns erect, rough, slightly spreading when dry, arising from a little beneath the summit of the outer palea, and rather longer than the palea, except in the lowermost floret. Ova- rium hairy on the summit. Styles two, short, arising from the side. Stigmos feathery. Filaments three, slender. Anthers long, notched at each end. Obs.— Bromus arvensis is distinguished from Bromus commutatus Bromus arvensis, Linneeus, Koch, Smith, Babington, (not Hooker.) See Le ert Tey , een ae ; sS) ’ ; i i 1 PLATE CXXV be Noms whe enrdsted . ( § Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. RParncll MD, del? et sexip? ; af i a Aad pint st Tea nln! goito$ ~ eB coin iba hai ¥ ite rio ie “ah eho) Mpa th : 7 ~ GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 277 (Plate CX XIV.) in the spikelets being smaller; inner palea acute, equal in length to the outer; anthers about four times as long as broad ; all the florets except the lowermost shorter than their awns: —whereas in Bromus commutatus the spikelets are longer ; inner palea more obtuse, and not as long as the outer; anthers shorter; and all the florets longer than their awns, Bromus arvensis is distguished from Bromus patulus (Plate CXXVIL.) in the outer palea having seven ribs; inner palea equal in length to the outer; spikelets smaller ; and the anthers three times longer ;—whereas in Bromus patulus the outer palea has nine ribs; inner palea shorter than the outer; spzkelets longer; and the anthers much shorter. This species of Brome-grass seems to have been first noticed in Bri- tain by Sherard, who gathered specimens at Southampton, and a characteristic figure of the plant is given in Sowerby’s English Bo- tany. It is also accurately described by Sir Edward Smith in his English Flora. Sir William Hooker, however, in his British Flora, has described the Bromus commutatus of Schrader under the name of Bromus arvensis, and has therefore omitted to mention the true Bromus arvensis of Linneus. It is occasionally found in England, but cannot be regarded as a true native any more than Bromus commutatus and Bromus patulus, which have no doubt found their way into this country through human agency. - It is a native of France, Germany, and Italy, where I have seen it growing plentifully in corn-fields and road sides, in the months of July and August. It is also found in Lapland, Norway, Sweden, and West Asia. It has not been noticed either in Scotland or Ireland. Flowers in June and July, and ripens its seed about the middle of August. The accompanying figure was drawn from a specimen sent me by Mr Gibson, who gathered it near Hebden Bridge, Yorkshire. Explanation of Plate CXXVI. Bromus arvensis, natural size, Fig. 1. Spikelet, showing the two glumes and seven florets. Second floret, showing the two palez. . Outer palea opened, showing the seven ribs. . Ligule. . Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales. — Magnified, om ow NM ay 278 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. Bromus PATULUS. Patent Brome-Grass. Plate CX XVII. Specific Characters.—Panicle patent. Spikelets lanceolate. Outer palea nine-ribbed. Description.—Root annual, fibrous. Stem erect, round, hard, nearly solid, smooth, except just below the panicle, scarcely polished, from nine inches to two feet or more high, bearing four or five leaves with striated sheaths shorter than their leaves; the upper sheath smooth, or nearly so, the lower sheaths soft and pubescent. Ligules prominent and ragged. Joints usually four, more or less hairy, mostly covered by the sheaths. eaves flat, narrow, pointed, hairy, especially on the upper surface. Inflorescence simple panicled, at first erect, spreading when in fruit, and when in seed drooping to a side; the rachis and branches rough ; the branches on the upper part arising in pairs or threes, and mostly in fives on the lower part. Spike- lets lanceolate, not hairy, usually of fourteen awned florets, and two glumes ; apex of large glume situated half-way between the base of the glume and the summit of the second floret on the same side. Glumes - two, unequal, membranous at the margins, roughish on the keels ; outer glume the smaller, three-ribbed ; inner glume five-ribbed, and often somewhat awned by a slight elongation of the middle rib. Florets of two palee; the outer palea of lowermost floret longer than the glumes; nine-ribbed, the two marginal ribs the most distinct ; it is either bifid or entire at the summit, membranous and glossy at the margins, twice as long as broad, and when opened the superior margins exhibit an obtuse angle. Jnner palea not as long as the outer palea, reaching as far up as the base of the awn, thin, white, obtuse, membranous, furnished with two green marginal ribs fringed with stout, white hairs. -Awns erect, rough, slightly spreading when dry, arising from a little below the summit of the outer palea, and rather longer than the palea except in the lowermost floret. Ovarium hairy on the summit. Styles two, short, arising from the side. Stigmas feathery. Filaments three, slender, short. Anthers small, notched at each end. Scales small. Bromus patulus, Koch, Kunth. ellatley. AG Prowed cS - PLATH CXXVIT. tee CCUM cL AMUN Attn cee cet PA mA > . nna i any oni mattis OU ye ny ry FP Parnell MD. del! scalp?” ee aS ¥e 6 Gor. £ nburgh & 1 s. Edr a&5 ackwood Published by W™ BI ) F < ei ‘ ps rae - . TD ST seat! 3 Ale: ae 2 Po. “ ” rad . ict - 7 + ae Se od mi : % ae “hael poe jc AR vat, * r si ys 4 ai t® , j ‘ yh ef > Whee & “; eae . , ' ; : ee * S, + . ‘ F ‘ . GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 279 Obs.— Bromus patulus is distinguished from Bromus arvensis (Plate CKX VL.) in the spikelets being longer: outer palea nine- ribbed ; inner palea shorter than the outer, not reaching beyond the base of the awn; and the anthers much smaller ;—whereas in Bro- mus arvensis the spikelets are smaller, of fewer florets ; outer palea seven-ribbed ; inner palea equal in length to the outer; and the anthers about four times as long as broad. Bromus patulus is distinguished from Bromus commutatus (Plate CXXIV.) in the outer palea being nine-ribbed ; all the awns longer than their florets except the lowermost one :—whereas in Bromus commutatus the outer palea is only seven-ribbed; and all the awns are shorter than their florets. Bromus patulus is distinguished from Bromus squarrosus (Plate CXX VIII.) in the spzkelets being of a more lanceolate form; outer palea twice as long as broad; awn arising from near the summit of the palea, and when dry but slightly spreading ;—whereas in Bro- mus squarrosus the spikelets are of an oblong-lanceolate form; outer palea broader, twice the breadth more than equals its length by one- fourth; awn arising more remote from the summit of the palea, and when dry conspicuously divaricating. Bromus patulus is distinguished from Bromus asper and Bromus sterilis in the larger glume having seven ribs instead of only three ribs. This grass is not a true native. It grows near Hebden Bridge, where it was discovered by Mr Gibson, who sent me a specimen, and from which the accompanying figure was taken. It is a native of st France and Germany. Grows in corn-fields and waste places. Of ee. Pes little agricultural importance. Aico kate: r Flowers in June. EW YORK Explanation of Plate CXXVII. Bromus patulus, natural sizes Fig. 1. Spikelet, showing the two glumes and fourteen florets. ) 2. Floret, showing the two palez. 3. Outer palea opened, showing the nine ribs, 4, Ligule, 5. Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales. Magnified. 5 >= & ~\- m2 T= > - - a 280 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. BROMUS SQUARROSUS. Corn Brome- Grass. Plate CX XVIII. Specific Characters.—Awns divaricating when dry. Outer palea nine-ribbed, twice the breadth greater than half its length. Description.—Root annual, fibrous. Stem erect, hollow, round, smooth, striated and polished, from nine to eighteen inches high; bear- ing four or five leaves with striated sheaths shorter than their leaves ; the upper sheath slightly roughish, the lower sheaths soft and pubescent. Ligules prominent and ragged. Joints usually four, the upper ones seldom covered by the sheaths. Leaves flat, narrow, linear-lanceo- late, rough on both surfaces, especially when felt from point to base, the lower ones less harsh, and frequently with soft downy hairs. In- florescence racemed, at first erect, at length drooping to a side, the rachis and branches rough. Spikelets, when young, oblong-lanceo- late, in seed more oval and subcompressed, (not hairy,) usually of ten florets and two glumes, frequently tinged with reddish brown; apex of large glume situated half-way between the base of the glume and the summit of the second floret of the same side, (Fig. 1.) Glumes two, unequal, membranous at the margins, roughish on the keels; outer glume the smaller, three-ribbed ; inner glume five-ribbed. Florets of two palez, the outer palea of lowermost floret longer than the glumes ; nine-ribbed, the marginal ribs the most distinct; it is either bifid or entire at the summit, membranous and glossy at the margins, not twice as long as broad, and when opened the superior margins exhibit an obtuse angle; inner palea much shorter than the outer, not reaching further up than to the base of the awn, thin, obtuse, white and membra- nous, furnished with two green marginal ribs fringed with stout white hairs. _Awns erect, rough, at length divaricating, arising from below the summit of the outer palea, and about the length of the palea ; those of the two lowermost florets shorter than the palea. Ovarium hairy on the summit. Styles two, short, arising from the side. Bromus squarrosus, Linn., Huds., Eng. Bot., Schrad., Koch, Kunth, Hooker, Smith, With., Lindley. Serrafalcus squarrosus, Babington. i 4 ANAL IN anamuuMUAAAN ONO to eaeeun mW eurnH OURO RUHR Uy PLATE CXXVH. Rapa Gellatly, os Lronted by J Wed Mee Vtodhicd Fublished by W> Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. fi Lorndi MD, dele: scuip* —— GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 281 Stigmas feathery. Filaments three, slender, short. Anthers very small, notched at each end. Obs.— Bromus squarrosus is distinguished from Bromus patulus in the spikelets being of an oblong lanceolate form; outer palea broader, twice the breadth greater than its length; awns, when dry, divaricating very conspicuously, and arising from the outer palea about one-fourth from the summit ;—whereas in Bromus patulus the spikelets are longer, of a lanceolate form; outer palea twice as long as broad; awns but slightly spreading, and arising from the outer palea much nearer the summit; the panicle larger and the branches more spreading. ‘The two grasses are closely allied, but very dis- tinct. Bromus squarrosus is distinguished from Bromus arvensis in the spthelets being of amore oblong form; outer palea nine-ribbed, twice the breadth greater than its length; cnner palea much shorter than the outer palea, not reaching further up than to the base of the awn; the awns divaricating ;—whereas in Bromus arvensis the spikelets are li- near, lanceolate; outer palea seven-ribbed, and twice as long as broad; inner paleaas long as the outer palea, and the awns not diva- ricating. Bromus squarrosus is distinguished from Bromus commutatus in the outer palea being nine-ribbed, and twice its breadth greater than the length; awns divaricating, arising from the outer palea, about one-fourth from the summit;—whereas in Bromus commutatus the outer palea is seven-ribbed, and twice as long as broad; awzns not spreading, and arising from the outer palea much nearer the summit. Bromus squarrosus is distinguished from Bromus secalinus in the outer palea being nine-ribbed, the upper half forming an obtuse angle; awns divaricating, arising from the outer palea, about one- fourth from the summit;—whereas in Bromus secalinus the outer palea is seven-ribbed, and rounded at the summit; awns straight, and arising from the outer palea much nearer to the summit. Bromus squarrosus is distinguished very easily from Bromus ra- cemosus and Bromus mollis in the apex of the large glume being halt- way between the base of the glume and the summit of the second floret on the same side ;—whereas in Bromus racemosus and Bromus mollis the apex of the large glume is half-way between its base and the summit of the third floret, or beyond. T 284 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. CyNOSURUS ECHINATUS. Rough Dog’s- Tail-Grass. Plate CX XIX. The figure given of this grassin Plate XXVIII. is scarcely charac- teristic of the species, as having been drawn from a dried stunted specimen, gathered in Shetland. I therefore substitute the accom- panying figure, which was taken from a recent plant gathered in the neighbourhood of Edinburgh. This grass was pointed out to me by Professor Graham growing in great profusion in an Italian rye-grass field near Granton. It sprung up in large tufts, producing several stems from one to three feet high, bearing panicles of luxuriant growth, often exceeding three inches in length, and were it not for the root being annual, it would rank among the superior agricultural grasses. Tt was in full flower on the 22d of June. The seeds had been in- troduced from’the south of France, mixed with those of the Italian rye-grass. According to Mr Murphy, this grass has also recently been dis- covered in Ireland. It is occasionally met with in England, and is common in France, Germany, and Italy. The description will be found in page 66. Explanation of Plate CXXIX. Cynosurus echinatus, natural size. . Spikelet with the pectinated involucre. } . Spikelet, showing the two glumes and two florets. | . Floret, showing the two palez and long awn, | . Ligule long and pointed. . Oyarium, pistils, stamens, and scales, qe" oF WN Magnified. - MH Z # ulus “ty bee spouting an Biot “: ail it A a f, oA = gent Bi ; . _—eeeennn alee eae Aino bo OATH inn amma ma oo si : 2 e | ee som ; ! inti erent eNNLUneReCbslNNim net : niiieeieieen ae A cae ae onc ih ———— Pronzed by J Gellaty. RP arn MD del? &t seadp? ‘Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. 286 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. HorpDEUM SYLVATICUM. Wood-Barley. Plate CX XX. Specific Characters—Glumes of the middle spikelet not fringed. Awn of the floret of lateral spikelet extending considerably beyond the glumes. Description.—Root perennial, fibrous, somewhat tufted, producing stems about two feet in length. Stems erect, round, hollow, nearly smooth, bearing four or five leaves, with roughish, striated sheaths ; upper sheath longer than its leaf. Ligule of upper sheath short, and blunt, the length about equal to one-fourth the breadth. Joints usually four, the upper one situated about the centre of the stem, fur- nished with a few minute hairs, pointing downwards, which are more numerous a little below the joint. Leaves lanceolate, flat, sharp- pointed, rough on the edges and both surfaces, especially when felt from point to base. Inflorescence spiked. Spike two or three inches in length, linear, close and uniform; rachis rough, angular, toothed alternately on both sides, seven teeth within the space of an inch. Spikelets arranged in threes on each tooth of the rachis; each spike- let composed of one or two florets and two glumes. Glumes of equal lengths, parallel, dilated, three-ribbed, roughish, not fringed, terminat- ing in alongroughawn. Foret of two palez, the outer palea awned, five-ribbed, rough, furnished at the base with a few short stout hairs. Inner palea about equal in length to the outer, with two ribs de- licately fringed, and furnished at the base with a long bristle, about half the length of the palea. Awn of the outer palea rough, arising from the very summit, and rather longer than the palea. Ovarium hairy. Styles two, short. Stigmas somewhat feathery. Filaments three, slender. Anthers rather long, cloven at each end. Seed lan- ceolate, with a furrow along the upper side, firmly coated with both pale. Scales prominent, acute, hairy. Hordeum sylvaticum is distinguished from Hordeum murinum, in the glumes of the middle spikelet not being fringed, (see Fig. 1), with awns not longer than the glumes ;—whereas in Hordeum muri- Hordewm sylvaticum, Uuds., Knapp, Bab. Elymus Europwus, Linn., Smith, Hooker, Lind., Koch, srg nO Pe ge OA thst, Printed by J. Gellatly. neh ato nH OH AUN Mme Wenn ; : rennet in ES shed by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. Publi Re Farndll MD del! et senlp® GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 287 num, the glumes of the middle spikelets are very conspicuously fringe d and the awns are much longer than their glumes. Hordeum sylvaticum is distinguished from Elymus arenarius in the spikelets being arranged in threes on each tooth of the rachis; glumes containing one, seldom two florets; florets with long awns ;—whereas in Elymus arenarius the spikelets are arranged in pairs on each tooth of the rachis ; g/umes containing three florets ; florets without awns. This grass at first sight might be mistaken for a Triticum, but the fact of its having three spikelets situated on each tooth of the rachis, instead of only one, will readily distinguish it. The broad, thin, and light green leaves, together with the length, is sufficient to indicate that this plant is a natural inhabitant of woods, thickets, and damp shady places, and that it contains less nu- tritive matter, and not so palatable to cattle as those grasses found in drier and more exposed situations. It grows wild in many places in England, as in Oxfordshire, Bed- ford, Wilts, Herts, Bucks, Hunts, Denbigh, Derby, York, and North- umberland, but I am not aware of its having been found either in Ireland or Scotland. It is also a native of Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy. | Flowers in June, and ripens its seed about the middle of August. The accompanying figure was drawn from a specimen gathered in Yorkshire. Explanation of Plate CX XX. Hordeum sylvaticum, natural size. Fig. 1. Three spikelets on a tooth of the rachis, each spikelet with two glumes and} one floret. 2. One of the florets removed from the glumes, 3. Lateral view of one of the florets, showing the two palez and a long bristle from the base. 4, Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales. 5. Ligule natural size. Magnified. ae A ete? 288 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. ELYMUS GENICULATUS. Pendulous Sea Lime- Grass. Plate CXX XJ. Specific Characters. — Spike bent perpendicularly downwards. Giumes longer than the florets. Description. — Root perennial, creeping. Stem erect, smooth, striated, and hollow, from two to five feet high, bearing three or four — leaves, with long, smooth, striated sheaths ; upper sheath longer than its leaf. Ligule very short and blunt. Joints covered by the sheaths. Leaves long, narrow, hard, and rigid, very glaucous, spmous-pointed, folded or rolled in, smooth behind, rough within. Inflorescence spiked. Spike very long, sometimes two feet in length, at first erect, atlength becoming strongly bentat an acute angle at the first, second, or third spikelet. achis winged, stnooth, slightly hairy on the ridges, toothed alternately for the reception of the sessile spikelets. Spikelets arranged in pairs on each tooth of the rachis, composed of two glumes and three or four awnless florets. Glwmes narrow, acute, nearly equal, three-ribbed, roughish, and somewhat hairy towards their points, smooth below. lorets to two pale, a little shorter than the glumes; outer palea acute, downy, five-ribbed ; inner palea shorter than the outer, membranous, cloven at the summit, frmged at the margins. Pedicle of second floret hairy. Ovarium hairy. Styles two, short. St¢gmas long and feathery. tlaments three. -Anthers notched at each end. Scales acute. Obs.— Elymus geniculatus is distinguished from Elymus arenarius, in the lowermost floret being shorter than the glumes by one-fourth, and the uppermost floret not projecting beyond the glumes ;—whereas in Elymus arenarius the lowermost floret is as long or longer than the glumes, and the uppermost floret always projects beyond the glumes; besides which, it is a smaller plant; spike shorter, more compact, and always erect, never becoming bent as in Elymus geni- culatus. Elymus geniculatus, Smith, Hooker, Knapp, Curtis, Babington. 4 . crane nan dinburgh & London. consis szguresmpannenmarenesnnen reer oe eS : sc al tyes nema nt ut Th ws Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. E said ini seascapes ene % RLarneli MD del! et scudp® art GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 289 This grass is not recommended for cultivation, further than form- ing a good cover for game. It grows on almost any kind of soil, but thrives best near the sea, on sandy or gravelly links, and is therefore beneficial in rabbit warrens. It is a very rare grass in Britain, hav- ing been found only near Gravesend. Flowers in the second week in July, and ripens its seed in the end of the first week in August. The accompanying figure was drawn from a cultivated specimen in the Edinburgh Botanic Garden. Explanation of Plate CX XXI. Elymus geniculatus, natural size. aa" SID Or om ao WO . Spikelet, showing the three florets shorter than their glumes, natural size. Glumes, natural size. . Three florets, with a rudiment of a fourth, natural size. Glumes. . Floret, showing the two pale. Ligule very short. . Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales, ee —~—-—— Magnified. 290 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. TRITICUM PINNATUM. Upright Wheat-Grass. Plate CXX XII. Specific Characters.—Awns shorter than their florets. Root creep- ing. Description.—Root perennial, creeping. Stem erect, round, hol- low, smooth, and slender, occasionally three feet in length, bearing four or five leaves with striated sheaths; the upper sheath shorter than its leaf; the lower sheaths furnished with hairs directed down- wards. Ligules short and obtuse, about twice as broad as long. Joints usually four, hairy, the first and second remote. Leaves long, linear, taper-pointed, rough on both sides, hairy on the upper side, with aprominent central rib extending the whole length. Jnflorescence racemed, approaching toa spike, the peduncles of the spikelets being very short but distinct. Aachis roughish, especially on the inner or grooved side. Spikelets erect, long, and linear, usually of ten awned florets and two glumes. Glumes unequal, smooth, seven-ribbed, the central rib occasionally prolonged into a point or short awn. Foret of two pale; outer palea of lowermost floret longer than the large glume, slightly roughish to the touch, seven-ribbed ; the central rib terminating in a rough awn seldom more than half the length of the palea, and often much shorter; the uppermost awns being always the longest. Inner palea rather shorter than the outer, obtuse, with two green ribs fringed with white bristly hairs on the upper half Styles two, arising from the summit of the ovarium. Stigmas feathery. Filaments three. Anthers yellowish, notched at each end. Ovarium hairy on the summit. Scales obtuse, hairy. Obs.— Triticum pinnatum is distinguished from Triticum sylvati- cum in being of a more upright growth; the root creeping, and the awns of the florets never as long as the palea ;—whereas in Triticum sylvaticum the root is fibrous, and the awns of the upper florets are as long or longer than the palea. Triticum pinnatum is readily distinguished from the rest of the Triticum pinnatum, Mench. Bromus pinnatus, Linn., Eng. Bot. Festuca pinnata, Huds., Smith, Knapp. Branchypodium pinnatum, Beauy., Hooker, Babington, St) Cas yee PLATE CXXXIT ~ MOI sna in Trulteurn purnalirn Printed by J Gellatly. Rand MD del! & scudp? Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh&iGndgn. GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 291 Triticums in the outer palea being seven-ribbed, and the inner palea abrupt at the summit ; instead of the outer palea having only five ribs, and the inner palea acute. This grass is not liked by cattle. It grows naturally on open commons and heathy places, principally on chalky soil, and is not uncommon in the counties of Devon, Oxford, Bedford, Cambridge, Dorset, Somerset, Sussex, Kent, Suffolk, Norfolk, Gloucester, Wor- cester, Leicester, York, and Cumberland. It is also a native of Nor- way, Sweden, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Portugal. It has not been discovered either in Ireland or Scotland. Flowers early in July. The accompanying figure was drawn from a specimen gathered in Dorsetshire. Explanation of PlateCXXXIL Triticum pinnatum, natural size. Fig. 1. Glumes i Sy 2. Floret, showing the two palez. 3 3. Inner palea fringed on the upper half. S 4, Ligule. Ey 5. Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales. = There are several varieties of this plant. The following are some of those deserving of notice. 292 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. TRITICUM PINNATUM (variety) GRACILE. Slender Upright Wheat-Grass. Plate CKX XIII. This variety differs from the preceding in being of a more slender form, the spikelets shorter, the root much branched, the awns of the fiorets rather longer, and the “gule shorter. Gathered in Kent in the first week of July. It is distinguished from Triticum sylvaticum in the spikelets not being hairy, and the florets with awns not the length of their pale, (see Fig. 2.) Itis probably the Brachypodium pinnatum (variety) rupestre of Koch. TRITICUM PINNATUM (variety) C@SPITOSUM. Narrow-Leaved Upright Wheat-Grass. Plate CX XXIV. There are several authors who have described this plant as a dis: tinct species under various synonyms, such as Triticum cespitosum, Cand. Kunth. ; Festuca cespitosa, Desf.; Bromus ramosus, Linn. ; Bromus retusus, Pers.; Brachypodium Plukenetii, Link. Koch and Babington, however, have noticed it as a variety, distinguished in the leaves being narrow ; ligule short and truncate ; root much branched ; spikelets small; and the florets smooth with short awns. It grows near Bath on chalky soil, and is likewise a native of Norway, Germany, France, and Italy. Flowers early in July. a Printed by J. Cellathy. mnt Mc ilu — a see a aonser ia ae sm eer RLarncil MD, del? et seudp* by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh &London. Published ts cuasfdlasirr TT ) I frat by W= Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh &London. et i" ‘ ves ti =? % A & tl 4 be] 294. GRASSES OF BRITAIN. TRITICUM PINNATUM (variety) COMPOSITUM. Compound Upright Wheat- Grass. Plate CKXXV. The spikelets arising from the rachis in threes is the principal mark of distinction in this variety, or rather monstrosity. It was sent me by Mr Gibson, who gathered it in Yorkshire on chalky soil, in the month of July. It is distinguished from Triticum sylvaticum in the florets not be- ing hairy and the awns short. TRITICUM PINNATUM (variety) HISPIDUM, Rough Upright Wheat-Grass. Plate CKXXVI. In this variety the glumes and florets are covered with very short bristly hairs producing a roughness to the touch, the root scarcely branched, and the ligule prominent. Gathered in Yorkshire. Brachypodium pinnatum (variety) vulgare, Koch. _— i ante ial Printed by J Gellatly. Edinburgh & London. oceqor 10 oxequ sane Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. RParntii MED, del? ecu ® yi ; ee a ne hayedeure. f a byw . W Blackwood & Sons. Edi ph & London. LALLLITL i al nya —cssssssewt / on = enero wane arcana sce “MUHA mii Wade! w" si Ei eutatete me va + . A fata ils - S eats - +S s< ace a CHky Pisinx X% ‘ eA eps fet + + wick tee FF, * ‘ _ b>: ol ad i a » 2 = ’ ae i oe » Qe = > Ae ral a Be eg webs & celete 2 Pe Ly x eh fe =vT va, * +39. ae oe aye ~ : ar ~ Pig a Cal Sl al } i ic naa US } 4 ~~) = | =v Gry . anor = > Cael ie, . tend va at SF z = 296 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. TRITICUM PINNATUM (variety) HIRSUTUM. Hairy Upright Wheat-Grass. Plate CKX XVII. This variety is the same as that described by Koch under the name of Brachypodium pinnatum (variety) vulgare. It also appears to be the Brachypodium pinnatum of Hooker, in which the spikelets are stated to be hairy. It is distinguished from the five preceding in the glumes and flo- rets being covered with hairs very similar to that observed in T7rit- cum sylvaticum, so much so that the two plants are often confounded. The short awns of the florets, however, with the upright growth of the raceme, will distinguish it from Triticum sylvaticum. Flowers early in July. Gathered in Yorkshire on chalky soil. Explanation of Plate CKXXVIL Triticum pinnatum (variety ) hirsutum, natural size. 2. Floret hairy. 3. Ligule short, obtuse. 4. Pistils, stamens, and scales. Fig. 1. Glumes hairy. SS - —~ Magnified. EAN LEm rata eeeri em sm a vumrunoua or RE a A, — cee URN Genres RON NN aN Z ‘“e Primed ty Sons. Edinburgh & London. Published by W™ Blackarood & a ‘ , 7 , y A de Oth j os a eae ie is hott os 7 rate ‘ Wale Ae 298 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. LoLIuM PERENNE (variety) ITALICUM. Italian Rye-Grass. Plate CKX XVIII. In page 142 I gave a short notice of this grass, and to prevent its being confounded with other varieties, I have here given a more detailed description of the same plant, accompanied with a figure of natural size. It is distinguished in the spikelets, (the terminal one excepted,) having but one glume, and that considerably shorter than its spike- let. The florets furnished with long awns. Description.—Root biennial, fibrous, producing many stems from two to five feetin length. Stems erect, striated, hollow, more or less rough to the touch, especially when felt from below upwards, bearing four or five leaves with roughish sheaths, upper sheath longer than its leaf. ZLigule of upper sheath obtuse, very short, about one-fourth as longas broad. Joints usually four, the uppermost remote. Leaves lanceolate, flat, acute, rough on the inner surface, smooth behind. Inflorescence spiked. Spike from five to eight inches in length, bearing from fourteen to twenty spikelets. Hachis wavy, grooved, rough on the angles. Spikelets (except the uppermost one) com- posed of one glume and from seven to eleven awned florets, the ter- minal spikelet having always two glumes of nearly equal lengths. Glume of a linear-lanceolate form, (Fig. 2), nearly flat, situated on the outer side of the florets, smooth, mostly five-ribbed, equal in length to the lowermost floret ; the glumes on the upper part of the spike rather shorter. Florets of two pales ; the outer palea of lowermost floret of an oblong-lanceolate form, five-ribbed ; the marginal ribs the most distinct. Inner palea about equal in length to the outer, with two green ribs minutely toothed. Awn rough, arising from a little below the membranous summit of the outer palea; of various lengths, the awn of the lowermost floret of the terminal spikelet longer than its floret ;—whereas the awn of the lowermost floret on the lower spike- lets is always shorter than the floret; the awn of the second floret is generally equal in length to its floret. Styles two, short. Stigmas Lolium Bouchianum, Kunth, Koch, Lolium multiflorwm, Babington, PLATE CXXXVIZ. CLIUVHE (UWL hee Printed by J Gellatly. RParndit IMD. del? et scudp? + Published by W™ Biackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 299 long and feathery. Filaments three. Anthers long and narrow, notched at each end. Scales acute. This grass is a native of Italy, first introduced into this country by Mr Lawson, who annually imports large quantities of the seed for agricultural purposes. The merits of this grass are thus stated by Mr Lawson in a supplement to his Agriculturist’s Manual. ‘ An expe- rience of ten years since our first introduction of the Italian rye-grass into Britain, enables us now to give a more decided description of its habits than formerly. In respect to duration it may be termed sub- perennial, beyond which title even the most permanent varieties of Lolium perenne have no claim. In most instances, two seasons of Italian rye-grass are all that can, with any degree of certainty, be de- pended upon ; and in very wet, cold, spongy soils it will often exhibit a thin stock the second season. Instances have, however, occurred in which as many as five and even six successive years’ produce have been reaped from the same field; but this has arisen more from the ground having been resown in course of reaping the seed than from the actual duration of the original plants; the seeds being remarkably easily separated from the hay, even although not perfectly ripe, which will always render the harvesting of them an operation attended with considerable care and difficulty. « Although the tendency of Italian rye-grass is to produce many stalks or stems from the same root, yet, from its upright habit of growth, it by no means forms a close turf; hence the propriety of sowing it with a mixture of other grasses of a different habit, which, by filling up the interstices, will add considerably to the weight of produce.” To insure a good and profitable crop of this grass, it will be ne- cessary to cultivate it on a rich deep soil in a sheltered situation, for when sown on light land in exposed situations the produce will not be sufficient to pay the labour bestowed. It thrives best in company with other grass; therefore, the following mixture of seed is recommended for hay and permanent pasture of one imperial acre :— Italian rye-grass, 2 bushels. Purple clover, ( Zrifolium pratense,) 8 \bs. 300 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. White clover, (Trifolium repens, )6 lbs. Timothy-grass, (Phleum pratense,) 4 \bs. Bucetum-grass, (Bucetum pratense,) 1 peck. Fescue-grass, (Festuca duriuscula,) 1 peck. “ Under favourable circumstances the growth of the Italian rye- grass is astonishing ; a field sown in October has been cut for soiling in December, and ready for cutting again in April, being then two feet high. But it is only in good land and under good management — that this grass becomes so valuable.”* 1 have frequently known the Italian rye-grass confounded with young examples of Lolium temulentum, from which, however, it dif- fers in the spikelets having but one glume, and that scarcely half the length of the spikelet ;—while in Lolium temulentum the spikelets have two glumes; the inner one small, often cloven ; the outer, long, about equal in length to the spikelet, (see Fig. 1.) Explanation of Plate CXXXVIII. Lolium perenne (variety) italicum, natural size. Fig. . Glume. . Outer palea opened, showing the five ribs. 1. Spikelet on a portion of the rachis, showing the glume and eight florets. 2. : | 4. Inner palea, showing the toothed margins. 5 6 | Magnified, . Ligule. . Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales, LoLIUM PERENNE (variety) SUBMUTICUM. Short-awned Italian Rye- Grass. Plate CXXXIX. This grass is a variety of the preceding, differimg only in the spike- lets being larger, bearing florets with short awns. The seeds are rather heavier, and the stems thicker. It is stated that an acre of this grass will yield as much as 5000 or 6000 Ibs. of seed. The accompanying figure was drawn from a specimen gathered in a field of Italian Rye-Grass in the neighbourhood of Edinburgh. * Murphy on the Grasses of Ireland. PLATE CKXXXIX. nent ss a Casini semen << enti Printed by J Gellatly. RParnell MD del? et: scadp* Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. 302 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. LoiruM PERENNE (variety) MULTIFLORUM. Many-flowered Italian Rye-Grass. Plate CXL, This variety is said to be strictly an annual, in which respect it dif- ~ fers from the two preceding. It is principally distinguished in the spikelets bearing many florets, from eighteen to twenty in number, with awns longer than their flo- rets, especially the middle ones. It is a stout grass, growing from four to five feet high, and is frequently met with in company with the Italian rye-grass. In consequence of its short duration it is not recommended for cultivation. It is a native of Germany and the south of France. Flowers early in July. The accompanying figure was drawn from a specimen gathered in the neighbourhood of Edinburgh. Explanation of Plate CXL. Lolium perenne (variety) multiflorum, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet on a part of the rachis, showing the glume and nineteen florets. 2. Outer palea opened, showing the five ribs, 3. Ligule. 4, Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales. Magnified. LoLiuM PERENNE (variety) RAMOSUM. Branched Italian Rye-Grass. Plate CX LI. In almost every field of Italian rye-grass specimens of this branch- ed variety are frequently met with. It grows occasionally to the height of five feet, and, were it but constant in its form, it would yield a larger crop of seed. The accompanying figure was drawn from a specimen patheneel in Islay. etn staan bens mans iene MAA HAMHH HUHNE NEA Printed by J Gellatly. Published by W™ Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh & London. RB Parndl MD. del? & scxdp? a cecil | 3 NAGAR HS La an Ni ce iA Printed ty J Gellatly. \ : & London. Edinburgh & Lon dished by W= Blackwood & Sons. ~ Published ty W= 304 GRASSES OF BRITAIN. LoLiuM TEMULENTUM (variety) LONGIARISTATUM. Long-awned Poisonous Rye-Grass. Plate CX LIT. This grass is a variety of the one already described in page 140, differing only in the awns of the florets being longer, and the whole plant of a stouter habit of growth. It grows in the same situations, and equally common, and the seeds possess the same deleterious pro- perties. Of late a case of poisoning caused by this grass has been re- corded. ‘The symptoms produced were somnolency, convulsive tre- mor, and coldness of the extremities. M. Ruspini says that the adulterated flour may be detected by digesting in alcohol, which, when Lolium temulentum is present, assumes a characteristic green tint. This grass is known from the Italian rye-grass, to which it bears some resemblance, especially in the young state, in the spikelets bear- ing two glumes; the inner glume short and thin, (see Fig. 2); the outer glume long, equal in length to the spikelet, (see Fig. 1);— while in the Italian rye-grass the spikelets have but one glume, (the terminal spikelet excepted), and that not more than half the length of the spikelet. The accompanying figure was drawn from a specimen gathered in Cantire. Explanation of Plate CXLII. Lolum temulentum (variety ) lon- giaristatum, natural size. Fig. 1. Spikelet on the rachis, showing the glume and seven florets. } . Inner glume small and thin. . Outer glume. Outer glume, showing the ribs. . Inner glume, showing the ribs, which are of a light green. 6. Inner glume, sometimes cloven. 7. Outer palea opened, showing the five ribs. 8. Inner palea minutely fringed. 9. Ligule very short. 0. Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales. 1. Seed, natural size. or ye oo bo Magnified. pod be — £ oa Printed by J Glhatly. “4 mv yint LLL SM raeeeesates ti | Ra RV Tc Leal . SDRAM HTT tc etsy ere ALAS PP BIBACAUMAIYAAMO A j. conseieearanltahiitAlih Perr mitt wt iene ™~ HN LRH “semttauan sca nnn ill INDEX OF THE LAST Ne NY AM i's, [The Synonyms are printed in Italics.] Agrostis triaristatus stolonifera Spica Venti minima littoralis ventricosa Agrostis vulgaris (var.) pumila (var.) aristata Agrostis alba - - : (var.) stolonifera . (var.) palustris canina sg : (var.) alpina Agrostis setacea Awa cristata Aira cerulea Aira aquatica . Aira cespitosa vivipera caryophyllea precox canescens, czespitosa brevifolia —— alpina (var.) vivipara flexuosa (var.) montana Airochloa cristata Alopecurus ovatus - < monspeliensis < Alopecurus agrestis ° z pratensis alpinus geniculatus fulvus : bulbosus Ammophila arenaria Ammophila arundinacea Anemagrostis Spica Venti Anthoxanthum odoratum - Armhenatherum elatior . Page 32 . 35 (var.) lon viaristata 39 168 Arrhenatherum avenaceum . Page 58 (var.) bulbosum 59 Arundo arenaria 25 Epigegos 38 stricta 37 calamagrostis : : 38 calamagrostis : “ek Ge Lapponica 194 Arundo phragmites : ° 69 Avena pratensis . : : -,. 122 pubescens. : . 5, lead. Avena strigosa 60 fatua 61 flavescens 126 Brachypodium sylvaticum -., Laz pinnatum . - 290 (var.) vulgare 294 Briza aspera : a - 226 Briza media 71 minor - - 226 Bromus giganteus 108 madritensis . 117 cristatus : - 134 pinnatus : . - 290 Bromus mollis 110 racemosus - lll — secalinus : 5 113 (var.) velutinus 114 Bromus arvensis i : ee 4. sterilis “ ~ oe NG diandrus 117 erectus 5 : 119 (var.) hirsutus. 2), «20 Bromus asper . : «ake arvensis 276 commutatus : sae tee (var.) multiflorus 274 ———. maximus ° = . 254 ——-. mollis : 256 ——— (var.) ovalis 258 —- pratensis 260 —— patulus : 278 —— racemosus ; ° . 262 306 Bromus racemosus (var.) subsecalinus 264 squarrosus - - ta e200 secalinus - : . 266 (var.) vulgaris 268 ae velutinus 270 Bucetum loliaceum : “ ony LOZ pratense d - 22 LOS elatius : ft zoe — (var.) variegatum <2 LOe giganteum 108 loliaceum (var.) longiglume 250 ae elongatum 252 Calamagrostis stricta : : 37 Epigegos - : 38 lanceolata . = algS ——_—. Lapponica : a ele Catabrosa aquatica 47 aquatica (var.) littoralis | 288 Catapodium loliacewm : ; 98 Chamagrostis minima P sheeOD Chilochloa Boehmert : oe oe Corynephorus canescens : . 244 Cynodon dactylon : ; . 66 Cynosurus cristatus ; ; ’ 64 echinatus 2 ; 66 — echinatus . - . 284 Dactylis stricta. - . Say Dactylis glomerata : : 67 Deschampsia ceespitosa : 52 Deyeuxia Lapponica . : -, 194 Digitaria filiformis . : 64 Digitaria humifusa : r wl G4 —sanguinalis . : Pe a! Echinochloa Crus-galli : - 154 Elymus Europeus : - - 286 Elymus arenarius : : + galisa geniculatus . . . 288 Festuca decumbens ; 4 ‘ 70 distans 5 f F 92 thalassia : ‘ Z 93 rigidia ; . : 97 calamaria F 7 5 99 —— jluitans : a ene 02 loliacea . a aeuelod: pratensis ; : =e eae ll0. elatior ; ‘ STL gigantea % . ae Ith sciuroides A 5 fo sylvatica ‘5 5 oemkee loliacea . : . ey) pinnata 2 ; . 290 Festuca bromoides i 5 pers [2 (var.) nana ; ape EAE Festuca ovina X é 128 (var.) bir suta rl eee — (var.) vivipara. «. 29 a (var.) angustifolia >) - 129 (var.) czsia : Stes ee) Festuca duriuscula . ; oye 30 (var.) hirsuta : be eal (var.) filiformis . Hp 9, SI (var.) arenaria : ep TH —=— —— INDEX OF THE LATIN NAMES. Festuca duriuscula (var.) humilis segs i3f (var.) rubra bromoides (var.) pseudo. my rus 5 : 246 uniglumis - 3 . 248 Gastridium australe : : 196 Gastridium lendigerum : «el Glyceria distans < ; 4 92 maritima : : ee procumbens. é : 95 ——. rigida : 97 ——— aquatica : Pope (1) Jjluitams - < eae ierochloe odorata : ; é 72 Hierochloe borealis : ‘ , 72 Holecus lanatus c “ - 48 mollis . - 50 — (var.) biaristatus . 51 (var.) parviflorus . 51 Holcus avenaceus " - 58 Hordeum nodosum 4 : : 31 Hordeum murinum ; s : 28 maritinum . : 2 29 pratense : ; 31 ——_—— sylvaticum - . 286 Hydrochloa aquatica. 9 sede Knappia agrostidea : wees Koeleria cristata F - 5 44 Lagurus ovatus . . «bose Lepturus incurvata . . . 9 Lolium multifiorum . . 298 festucaceum : - 250 Bouchianum - ene. Lolium temulentum ' ay oo perenne . ‘2141 — (var.) racemosum — » 142 — (var.) angustifolium . 142 — (var.) tenue s ae AD (var.) Italicum 142 Lolium temulentum (var.) longiarista- tum i 304 perenne (var.) subinuticust 300 _ ramosum 302 _— italicum 298 — multiflorum 302 Melica cerulea p 3 46 Melica uniflora : ¢ ~ 42 — nutans é ; 2 43 Mibora verna ‘ ‘ : 2 168 Milium lendigerwm 5 ». 196 Milium effusum ; - 40 Molinia depauperata : 45 ceerulea . 46 cerulea (var.) breviramosa 230 Nardus stricta a “. : 8 Ophiwus inewvatus . 9 Oplismenus Crus-galli : «(Sa ghibe. Pancum humifusum. . a hee INDEX OF THE LATIN NAMES. Panicum sanguinale Page 160 sanguinale . : 164 dactylon ; : . 166 ——_glabrum - . 164 Crus-galli. 154 viride = P peg verticillatum - af USS Pennisetum verticillatum 158 Phalaris arenaria 20 ——— alpina 22 aspera = 3 - 180 ————_ phileoides < : . 182 Phalaris arundinacea E 27 canariensis : 26 ————— arundinacea (var.) variegata 188 Phleum paniculatum 3 180 Phleum pratense : = 17 alpinum - - - 19 arenarium 20 ——. Michelii a2 —— Boehmeri 182 ——— asperum 180 ——— pratense (var. ) longiarista- tum 176 pratense (var.) fongicliatum 178 aera communis . 69 Poa decumbens 70 — nemoralis montana 86 — glauea ..- 88 —— retro 92 Poa Balfouri 145 —- pratensis 73 — (var.) planiculmis | 74 SS (var.) umbrosa 74 — (var.) arida 74 — (var.) retroflexa 74 — (var.) muralis 75 -—— (var.) arenaria 75 Poa trivialis : . 76 (var.) parviflora 77 —— nemoralis - 78 (var.) angustifolia 79 Poa compressa. : 80 —~ alpina 81 —~ laxa 2 83 — flexuosa 84 Poa polynoda 84 —— montana 86 —cesia. = 88 —-annua . ~ 5 90 ae (var-) serica 91 Poa distans : . : 92 —— maritima = 93 —— procumbens 95 —-rigida . 97 —— loliacea “ 98 —— sylvatica : : 99 —— aquatica - Sls —- fluitans - : : Baier) 47 eg 307 Poa bulbosa Page 202 —— Borreri . E 3 - 220 —— Parmellii : : . 210 —— polynoda : ° : - 206 —— subcompressa . 204 —— polynoda (var.) denticulata 208 —— fluitans (var.) subspicata 214 —— sylvatica (var.) subaristata ; 224 —— alpina (var.) vivipara 212 —— distans (var.) obtusa 216 = re .) minor 218 maritimus (var.) hispida 222 Polypogon littoralis » 186 monspeliensis 32 Rottbollia incurvata. 9 (var.) filiformis 9 Sclerochloa procumbens 95 Borreri 220 rigida : 97 Serrajaleus mollis : : - 256 TACEMOSUS : - 262 SqUarrosus 280 commutatus 272 Sesleria ccerulea 63 Setaria verticillata 158 viridis . : : . hae Shedonorus sylvaticus . or EN 99 pratensis 105 elatior - a” PE Spartina alternifiora . - , Te stricta i = ektO Stipa pennata 198 Sturmia minima 168 Syntherisma glabrum ~ 164 ————rulgare . . 160 Trichodeum caninum 36 Triodia decumbens 70 Trisetum pratense 122 —- (var.) longifolium 123 oa > (var.) latifolium. 123 Trisetum pubescens 124 flavescens 126 Triticum loliaceum 98 Triticum sylyaticum . : ee CT cristatum 134 caninum 135 repens. ~ 136 (var.) aristatum 137 Triticum junceum 138 pinnatum : - 290 === (var.) czspitosum 292 — gracile 292 —— hispidum 294 compositum 294 Vulpia bromoides s.) aaa ep. 5) Alpine meadow-grass Alpine fox-tail grass Alpine cat’s-tail grass Annual meadow-grass Annual beard-grass ‘ Babington’s meadow-grass Babington’s obtuse meadow-grass_ . Babington’s reflex meadow-grass Barren brome-grass Barren fescue-grass Bearded rye-grass Bearded wheat-grass Blue moor-grass Borrerian meadow-grass Branched Italian rye-grass Bristle-leaved bent-grass Bristle-pointed oat Brown bent-grass Bulbous fox-tail grass Bulbous meadow-grass . Bulbous Timothy-grass . Cat’s-tail grass s Clubbed hair-grass Compound upright wheat gras Common reed : Common quaking-grass Corn brome-grass . Creeping finger-grass Creeping wheat-grass Creeping soft-grass Creeping sea meadow-grass Crested dog’s-tail grass Crested hair-grass Crested wheat-grass Downy oat-grass - Downy rye brome-grass . Early hair-grass_ : Early Knappia Elongated bucetum-grass Erect bristle-grass Feathery-grass Page 81 INDEX OF THE ENGLISH NAMES. 13 19 90 32 210 216 Fine bent-grass Glabrous finger-grass Glaucous meadow-grass Great brome-grass Hairy finger-grass Hard fescue-grass Hard sea-grass Hard meadow-grass Hare’s-tail grass Heath-grass Holy-grass Italian rye-grass Lapland small-reed : Large taper-field brome-grass Long-anthered brome-grass Long-awned poisonous rye-grass Long-awned Timothy-grass Long-awned tufted hair-grass Long-glumed bucetum-grass . Loose panick-grass Lyle’s siliceous meadow-grass Many-flowered Italian rye-grass Many-spiked cord-grass Manured canary-grass Marsh bent-grass . Mat-grass Meadow fox-tail grass Meadow barley Meadow soft-grass Meadow fescue-grass Michelian cat’s-tail grass Mountain melic-grass Mountain meadow-grass - , Narrow-leaved oat-grass 3 | Narrow-leaved upright wheat-grass 198 Nit-grass Page 33 Flat-stalked five-ribbed meadow-grass 204 Flat-stalked meadow-grass Floating meadow-grass - Floating fox-tail grass 310 Oat-like soft-grass Orange-spiked fox-tail grass Patent brome-grass Pendulous sea lime-grass Pendulous rye brome-grass Perennial beard-grass : Procumbent sea meadow-grass Purple-flowered small-reed Purple-stalked cat’s-tail-grass Purple melic-grass - Reed canary-grass Reed meadow-grass Reflex bristle-grass Reflexed meadow-grass Rough cat’s-tail-grass_ Rough cock’s-foot grass Rough dog’s-tail grass Rough dog’s-tail-grass Rough sea meadow-grass Rough-stalked meadow-grass Rough upright wheatgrass Rye-grass : Sea cat’s-tail grass Sea reed Sea barley Sea wheat-grass : ; Sheathed barren fescue-grass Sheep’s fescue-grass . Short-awned Italian rye-grass Short-leaved tufted hair-grass Silky bent-grass : Silver hair-grass Siliceous meadow-grass . Siliceous meadow-grass Slender fox-tail grass - Slender mountain hair-grass . Slender wheat-grass Slender fescue-grass : Slender upright wheat-grass . Small close-reed Small-glumed fescue-gra: ass Small purple melic-grass Small quaking-grass Small water hair-grass Smooth alpine hair-grass INDEX OF THE ENGLISH NAMES. Smooth brome-grass Smooth brome-grass Smooth oval brome-grass Smooth rye brome-grass Smooth-stalked meadow-grass Smooth rye brome-grass Soft brome-grass Soft brome-grass ; Soft long-glumed brome-grass Soft oval brome-grass Spike-like floating meadow-grass Spiked meadow-grass Spreading millet-grass . 5 Sweet-scented vernal-grass . Tall feseue-grass : Tall-bearded fescue-grass Taper-field brome-grass Taper field brome-grass Tawny melic-grass Timothy grass Tufted hair-grass . Tufted hair-grass Twin-spiked cord-grass Upright annual brome-grass . Upright brome-grass Upright sea lime-grass . Upright wheat-grass Variegated reed canary-grass . Viviparous alpine hair-grass . Viviparous alpine meadow-grass Wall barley Water hair-grass Wavy mountain-grass Wavy meadow-grass Wild oat W ood-barley Wood reed : Wood melic-grass Wood meadow grass. 5 Wood-reed meadow-grass Wood-reed meadow-grass Wood brome-grass Yellow oat-grass ee ll) 262 CoRRIGENDA. Part I. Page 19, line 15, for much longer read much shorter. 37, line 1, for five-ribbed read four-ribbed. 45, 46, for Molinea read Molinia. 82, line 4, for pointed read obtuse. 106, 108, 109, for Bucetum elatior read Bucetum elatius. : . 121, line 20, jor five-ribbed read seven-ribbed. : aw 122, for Avena pratense read Avena pratensis. ” . Pant II. {a Page 200, for Hair’stail read Hare’stail. Pr 208, for silicious read siliceous. 272, line 18, for is read in. 280, line 2, for than half its read than its. 288, line 16, for to read of. . 290, bottom line, for Branchypodium read Brachypodium. 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