L

Bulletin No. 12.

Agroa. 31.

U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE.

DIVISION OF AGROSTOLOGY.
[CJrass nixl Forage Plant IiiveNtisatioiiH.l

,-''^--.

A REPOR

UPON THE

GRASSES AND FORAGE PLANTS

.VXD

FORAGE CONDITIONS

OF THE

EASTERN ROCKY MOUNTAIN REGION.

BY

THOMAS A. WILLIAMS,

ASSISTANT A(;m)STOLOc;iST.

PREPARED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE AGROSTOLOGIST.

WASHINGTON:

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.
1898.

y

LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL.

U. S. Department of Agbiculture,

Division of Agrostology,
Washington, I). C, April 23, 1898.
Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith, and recommend for
publication as Bnlletin Xo.l2of this Division, a report upon the grasses
and forage plants and forage conditions of the eastern Rocky Moun-
tain region, by Thomas A. Williams, assistant agrostologist. Field
agents of the division have been carrying on investigations in the region
embraced in this report during the past three years, and Mr. Williams,
of tbe division staff, has visited, during the seasons of 1S96 and 1897,
the more important grazing districts, where, under the direction of the
Agrostologist, he has studied the present forage problems of the region
and investigated the native grasses and forage i)lants, noting their
characteristics, distribution, general prevalence, and economic impor-
tance; he has endeavored to ascertain how the most desirable sorts
may be preserved or increased, and has also made close personal obser-
vations with the view of determining some practical means of restoring
the ranges to their original grazing value, or at least preserving them
from further injury through careless and short-sighted practices. The
present report is based upon these studies and investigations, as well
as upon the results of work done by the field agents of the division.
While carrying on these investigations the work of the field agents
has not been confined to the districts easily accessible from the rail-
roads and other common lines of travel, but, by means of wagon trips and
side excursions on horseback, they have penetrated into the less-known
localities, in every case making extensive collections of specimens and
seeds, as well as obtaining all the data possible relating to the question
of forage supply. One field agent thus covered nearly 1,(100 miles in a
wagon trip of two months during the past season. (See fig. 1.) There
has also been included much valuable information acquired through
correspondence with i)rominent citizens and leading stockmen, who
have most cordially resi)onded to letters of inquiry relative to the
matters in question and materially aided the Department in the prose-
cution of these grass and forage-plant investigations. Hearty thanks
are here expressed to all those correspondents who have thus cooper-
ated in the work of the division.

3

4

Some idea of the importance of the subject of this Eeport upon the
Grasses and Forage Tlauts and Forage Conditions of the Eastern
Kocky Mountain Kegion is indicated by the following statements:

It is estimated from Report Ko. 7, Division of Statistics, that in the
State of Wyoming about 15,000,000 acres are taken up by mountains and
forest areas, about 10,000,000 acres are irrigable and hence suitable for
general agriculture, while nearly 40,000,000 acres, or almost two-thirds
of the entire State, may be regarded as pasture lauds only. In Mon-
tana the proportion of pasture lands is fully as great as in Wyoming,
while in Colorado it will probably fall but little below.

At the beginning of the year 18U7 there were in these three States
about 350,000 head of horses and mules, valued at about 89,000,000,
over 3,000,000 head of cattle, valued at nearly $56,000,000, and over
6,200,000 head of sheep, valued at over $10,500,000, or a total valuation
for the stock supported chiefly by these native pasture and meadow
lands of about $75,500,000.

The first report on the investigations of the forage plants of the
Northwest, from this division, was Bulletin No. 5, on the Grasses and
Forage Plants of the Eocky Mountain Region, by P. A. Rydberg and
C. L. Shear. This was followed by Bulletin No. 6, on the Grasses
and Forage Plants of the Dakotas, by T. A. Williams, aided by Prof.
M. A. Brannon, of North Dakota, aud E. N. Wilcox and 1 )avid Griftiths,
of South Dakota. Embracing much the same field is Prof L. H. Pam-
mel's Notes on the Grasses and Forage Plants of Iowa, Nebraska, and
Colorado, published as Bulletin No. 9 of this Division ; and another, on
The Red Desert of Wyoming and its Forage Resources, by Prof. Aven
Nelson, is now in press. In the present bulletin the topographical
features of the region are considered, including a discussion of the
soil, water supply, etc. This is followed by detailed accounts of the
cultivated grasses and forage plants and the more important forage
plants, both grasses aud species of other families, native to the region,
concluding with suggestions on methods of improvement of the forage
conditions of the ranges.

Respectfully, F. Lamson-Scribner,

Ayroatoloyist.

Hon. James Wilson,

^Secretary of Agriculture.

CONTENTS.

Page.

Introduction 7

General topographical features of the region 11

The soil 13

The water supply 15

Present aspect of the forage problem 16

Forage oonditious on the range of western South Dakota and northeastern

Wyoming 20

Cheyenne Agency to Belle Fourche River 20

Butte Post-office to Devils Tower 23

Devils Tower to New Castle 26

The southern Black Hills i-egion 28

EapidCity to Pierre 29

Cultivated grasses and forage plants 29

Timothy 30

Redtop 31

Kentucky l)lue grass 31

Smooth or Hungarian brorae-grass 32

The fescues 33

Orchard grass 34

Alfal fa 34

Red clover 35

Alsike - 36

"White clover 36

Miscellaneous forage crops 37

Native grasses and forage plants 38

Native meadow or hay grasses 38

Lowland meadows 38

Mountain meadows 44

Native pasture grasses . 50

Grasses of the plains 51

Grasses of the foothills and mountains 58

Native clovers, vetches, and lupines 60

The clovers 60

The vetches and vetchlings 62

The lupines 63

The milk-vetches 64

Rushes and sedges 65

Rushes 65

Sedges 66

Miscellaneous native forage plants 66

The bitter sages 67

The salt-sages 67

Winterfat 68

Greasewood 69

Miscellaneous -, 69

Improvement of the ranges 71

5

ILLUSTRATIONS.

I'ase.

Fig. 1. In the field 8

2. The ideal summer range - 12

3. An "alkali spot," showing characteristic greasewood vegetation ... 14

4. Fresh-water cord-grass { Spartinu cynosiiroides) 21

5. Buifalo-grass ( liiinHis dactylouJes) 28

6. Smooth or Hungarian brome-grass {Broviua inermis) 32

7. Sheep fescue {Fesiuca ovlna) 33

8. Slender wheat-grass {Ayropyron tenerum ) 39

9. Reed meadow-grass {Panicidaria amerimna) 40

10. Bunch-grass {Poa huckleyann) - 4:1

11. Bench-bind spear-grass (7'oa anVZ«) . 42

12. Nevada blue grass {Poa ncvmJensis) 43

13. AVyoming blue grass ( Poa wlieeUri ) 4.5

14. Mountain foxtail {Alopecurun ocddentalis) 46

15. Short-awned brome ( Bromus hreviaristafiis) 47

16. Rocky Mountain oat-grass (Danthonia Intermedia) 48

17. Blue grama {Hoatelona oUgosiachya) 52

18. Tall or side-oats grama ( Bindeloua vurtipendula ) 53

19. A bit of the " range " in northeast Wyoming 55

20. Prairie .1 une-grass ( Kochria criatata ) 56

21. Fine-top salt-grass (5po?-o/;o/((s wf'roif/fN) 57

22. Salt-grass (Disiichlis npicata) 58

23. King's fescue ( Festuca kingii) 59

24. ]M()untain red clover ( Trifoliiim megacephahim) 61

25. Dakota vetch {Loiitu amtricinuis) 63

26. Prairie milk-vetch {Aatraguhi^ adsiirycnn} .• 64

27. Shad scale {Atvlplcx ranescens) 67

28. Winterfat {EnroHa lanata) 69

29. Gr«;ascwood {Surcohatiis vermicnlalnn ) 69

30. Montana bush-iiea ( Thermopaiis montana) 70

6

A REPORT UPON THE GRASSES AND FORAGE PLANTS AND
FORAGE. CONDrnONS OF THE EASTERN ROCKY MOUNTAIN
REGION.

INTRODUCTION.

Stock raising will always be an importaut iiidastry in the vast
expanse of territory lying between the Kocky Mountains and the one-
hundredth meridian. The early settlers recognized its many natural
advantages for this purpose, and at once began to cover the hills and
valleys with cattle and other stock. Under the stimulating influence of
high prices, resulting largely from the demand created by the civil war,
stock raising rajiidly grew to be an industry of immense proportions.
At til St forage was plentiful ; everywhere the supply seemed inexhaust-
ible, and the ranchnmn's chief concern was to get more stock in order
that he might turn into cash the grasses of the prairies. Stock grew
and fattened on no other feed than the native grasses throughout the
entire year.

At length, however, stockmen became aware of the fact that not only
was there a possibility, but a probability, that the supjdy of forage would
soon be exhausted if they continued to follow the old methods of stock
raising. Under this old system of mismanagement the ranges were
stocked to their utmost capacity, even for the most favorable conditions,
and consequently the past series of dry seasons resulted in a great
shortage of feed. Eanchmen are already confronted with the necessity
of ])roviding extra forage supplies for use in seasons when the grasses
on the range are short.

With a view to finding some practical means of bettering existing
conditions and encouraging stockmen in their efforts to grow forage
crops, a series of investigations of the various forage problems existing
in the West and Xorthwest, particularly in the States of Montana,
Wyoming, and Colorado, is being carried on by the direction of the
Secretary of Agriculture through the Division of Agrostology. These
investigations are designed to secure full and accurate information
regarding the present condition of the forage problem; what the great-
est needs are, and how they can be met in the most practical manner;
to study the native grasses and forage plants, their characteristics, dis-
tribution, abundance, and value; to ascertain the best means of pre-
serving the more desirable sorts, and to introduce into cultivation such
as promise to be of value; to devise some practical treatment for the

8

ranges whicL will not only restore tlieir original grazing valne but
guard against future injury through overstocking and other careless
and shortsighted practices.

The information upon which this report is based has been gathered
from various sources. During the past three seasons iield agents of
the division have been working in the different parts of the region in
question studying matters pertaining to the forage supply. The writer
has made two trips into the more important grazing districts, and,
under the direction of the chief of the division, has studied the condi-
tions and needs by consulting with the stockmen and collecting all
facts likely to aid in the work of getting at a i^ractical solution of the

Fig. 1.— In the field.

various forage problems confronting the ])eople at the present time,
and thereby laying the foundations for more intelligent and economical
practices in the future.

In April, 1897, the following circular letter with the aj^pended (jues-
tions was sent to prominent stockmen, farmers, and others interested
in the forage problem :

Unitkd States Dei-aktment oi' Agricultcre,

Division of Agrostology,

IVashhigfon, T). C, Ajfril, 1S07.

Deaii Sir: Under tlio direction of the Secretary of Agriculture this division is

investigating the forage question in tlie Northwest, particularly in the States of

^lontana, Colorado, and Wyoming. In this investigation particular attention is

being given to the native grasses and for.ige ])laats, their characteristics, distribu-

9

tion, abundance, and valne; the best means of preservinf;; the more valuable kinds,
and the methods to be employed in reclaiming those ranges which have been ren-
dered of little or no value for grazing, through overstocking or other causes. In
order to obtain a more definite idea as to what the present conditions and greatest
needs are, and to gain all possible information that will aid us in determining the
most practical methods of improving these conditions, by the introduction and cul-
tivation of new grasses aud forage plants or by the preservation and cultivation of
native species, correspondence is hereby invited with all interested in the develop-
ment and preservation of the stock-raising and dairying industries.

There are over 225 different grasses native to this region, and it would be difficult
to give an adequate estimate of their immense value as a natural resource. Ever
since the Northwest has been settled these grasses have been the chief source of food
for the many thousands of horses, cattle, and sheep raised there, and many of them
will undoubtedly prove more valuable under cultivation than they are in the native
state.

Any assistance you may render in this undertaking, either by sending us the names
and addresses of leading farmers, stock raisers, and dairymen of your region, or by
furnishing information relative to the points above indicated, will be highly
appreciated

Yours, truly, F. Lamson-Scribnkr,

Agrostologist.

Approved :

James Wilson,

Secretary of Agriculture.

(1) What is the chief forage problem in your section — that is, do you need hay
plants, soiling crops, drought-resistant crops, winter forage, or early spring or late
autumn forage?

(2) How many head of cattle, horses, or sheep can be safely pastured to the square
mile under existing conditions?

(3) Has the stock-carrying capacity of the ranges and pastures in your section been
diminished through overstocking or other causes? If so, to what extent?

(4) What treatment do you recommend for restoring, renewing, and improving
the rauges where they have been overstocked?

(5) What are the most highly valued native grasses and forage plants, and are
there any tame grasses or forage plants which might be profitably introduced on the
ranges to take the place of the valuable wild grasses of former years?

(6) What is the general character of the land in your locality, and what grasses
flourish best on it?

Answers were received from about 600 persons, and the following
may be taken as representative of the ideas expressed by the great
majority of them.

From Governor Robert B. Smith, of Montana, tbe following answers
were received:

(1) We need drought-resistant crops and winter forage.

(2) Fifty head of horses or cattle or 2,^0 sheep.

(3) Where sheep range, destroyed at least one-half.

(4) If sheep were compelled to be kept in certain portions of the range and the
remainder left free for cattle or horses, the range would be fully restored in three
years. Sheep destroy the range ; cattle and horses do not.

(5) Blue-joint and buffalo-grass are the best native grasses. Do not know of any
tame grasses to take their places.

(6) Light gravelly land; soil not deep but rich, and with large per cent of alkali.
Buffalo-grass and blue-joint flourish best.

10

From Hon. John C. Bell, M. C, of Colorado:

(1) In the rncompaligre, Gunnison, and C4ran(l valleys, the San Luis Valley, and
the upper portion of the Arkansas Valley, our great field plant is alfalfa. The
mountain sides, mesas, and foothills are covered with bunch grass which supplies
all herds from about April 1 to December 1. If we could find some grass that would
flourish in the low foothills without irrigation for winter feed it would bo a great
boon to all of Colorado. Our summer forage is ample and of the very best (luality.

(2) The ranges vary so that no approximate estimate can be made. On some
hiuh mesas where the snow is deep in winter the grass is very abundant, but lower
down it decreases. But these ranges are ample for all the stock that can be wintered
in the valleys below.

(3) Not in the mountainous regions.

(i) Cattle and horses rarely impoverish a range, as they do not feed in close
bunches, but sheep tramp out and practically destroy the grasses wherever they are
kept. Horses and cattle will not remain or feed with them on the range.

(5) Buncb-grass and blue-stem in the mountain regions can not be surpassed unless
some grass could bo found that would stand the drought in the foothills.

(6) We have three varieties — adobe, black loam soil on the river bottoms, and the
high " red oxide " mesa lands. Vegetables grow best on the black loam, wheat and
oats on the adobe, fruit trees and alfalfa on the high mesa, though it is all better
than the average lands of the country for any of the ordinary crops, and would
probaljly produce most of the common grasses, though but little experiment has
been made in this direction.

From Hon. Jos. M. Carey, Cheyenne, Wyo.:

(1) The introduction of a forage plant that will mature during our short seasons
and will afford good grazing all the year, the seed of which would germinate and
grow by simply being raked or '-disked in"on the native soil. The native grasses are
so valuable that it would ho unwise to destroy them, but with nutritious grasses to
supplement them the capacity of a given section for grazing purposes might be
greatly increased.

(2) This depends upon circumstances. Some sections as they were left by nature
would scarcely carry an animal ; others, 30 to 40 head. Should say average 1.5 head
for three hundred and sixty-five days.

(3) Yes; but as soon as cattle are removed the ranges again grow up to the native
grasses. When I speak of cattle I mean neat cattle and horses. Where sheep graze
for a number of years weeds take the place of native grasses.

(4) Kest.

(5) Bunchi-grass, blue-stem, and buflalo-grass are the varieties best known to
stockmen. I do not know of any.

(6) Sod free from brush of any kind. The native grasses referred to; with irriga-
tion all of the small grains and forage plants that are common in this latitucU' pro-
duce well. Alfalfa does well everywhere in this State when irrigated, where the
altitude is not over 5,000 feet. Three crops may be harvested; season's production,
from 3 to 6 tons an acre.

A glance tlirou<ili this correspondence shows at once that not one
but many problems relating- to the forage supply demand attention.
Localities having like soil and climatic conditions may still differ widely
as to the most pressing needs. Thus, in one locality the greatest need
may be early spring forage, in another it may be winter forage, and in
still another it may be summer feed, while in many localities it is a
question of a general shortage for the entire year.

The study of the forage question in the West and Northwest has not

11

been carried far euougii to give us solutions to all the problems con-
frontiug the stockman, but it has been sufficient to reveal pretty clearly
the causes that have led up to the preseut exhausted condition of the
range. It shows that the past methods of handling the range have
been shortsighted, and that while these practices are being in a meas-
ure corrected by the natural course of events, it is imperative that steps
should be taken to restore and preserve tlie productiveness of the native
meadow and pasture lands before the destruction has g'one too far.
The improvement in the native forage noticeable in some localities dur-
ing the past one or two seasons is likely to be but temporary, as already
stockmen in these localities are trying to increase their herds, and the
lands will soon be overstocked again.

The investigation has also resulted in a large amount of valuable
data regarding the native grasses and forage plants, the wealth of spe-
cies found in the region, their value in the natural condition, and their
possibilities under cultivation. There can scarcely be any doubt that
vsome of these native forms will ultimately become as valuable for
general cultivation as many of the so-called " tame " sorts.

GENERAL TOPOGRAPHICAL FEATURES OF THE REGION.

The topograi^hical features of the three States comprising the greater
part of the Eastern Eocky Mountain region are, in umny respects, very
similar. The continental divide, which traverses Montana about LOO
miles east of the western boundary and nearly parallel with it, enters
Wyoming a little to the southward of the northwestern corner of that
State and continues its general trend to the southeast until it reaches
central Colorado, where it turns rather abruptly "to the southwest.
Approxiuiately fivo-sixths of Montana, three-fourths of Wyoming, and
two-thirds of Colorado lie east of this divide. While in each State the
greater part of the mountain area is found in the immediate vicinity of
this divide, numerous outlying ranges occur which exert a great influ-
ence, not only upon the physical character of the country, but also
upon the climatic conditions, particularlj^ in the distribution of the
moisture; as, for example, the Big and Little Belt Mountains, Snow
Mountains, Bears Paw ]\Iountains in Montana, Shoshone Mountains,
Big Horn Mountains, Bear Lodge Mountains, and Laramie Mountains,
in Wyoming, and the Sangre de Cristo and other ranges in Colorado.

In most cases the mountains along the main divide are rugged, with
precipitous sides, more or less thickly covered with timber, which is
chiefly evergreen, or coniferous. Sometimes the forest covering is so
heavy that the growth of grasses is very limited, but usually there are
numerous "parks" or "opens," in which flourish certain grasses and
other forage plants. The slopes of the mountain ranges are cut up by
numerous gulches and canyons, through which flow streams of water,
fed largely by the melting snows on the mountain tops. The valleys
of these streams widen out here and there into grass-covered areas of

12

various sizes, formiug the "mountain meadows" for wLicb this region
is justly famous. The valleys of many of the larger mountain streams,
uniting with those of their more important tributaries, often form areas
of considerable extent, in which, because of the rich soil and abundant
supply of moisture, luxuriant growths of native grasses are produced.
These areas, variously called "basins,'' "parks," etc., protected as they
are by mountains on all sides and provided with an abundance of
excellent forage and pure water, are magnificent natural pastures,
whose only drawback is that often the altitude is so high and the snow-
fall is so great that they can be used for only a limited portion of the
year. (See fig. 2.) Excellent examples of these areas are Spanish Creek
basin, in southern Montana ; Centennial Valley, at the head of the Little
Laramie liiver, in Wyoming, and the numerous "parks" of Colorado.

Fig. 2. — The ideal summer range. (From pbutograiili by I'rof. A. Nclsnii.)

In some of the outlying ranges the mountains are less rugged, the
sloi)es are often but sparsely or not at all wooded, and hence otter pro-
portionately larger forage producing areas. For example, the Big
ITorn and Bear Lodge ranges, in Wyoming, contain large areas of grass
lands, the former exi)anding towaid tlie south into a broad, irregular
plateau, a very considerable portion of which is covered with a fine
sod of native grasses. In many iwrtions of this region the mountains
are fringed with an irregular series of foothills, which iiass sometimes
abru])tly, sometimes gradually, into table-lands or mesas, and these in
turn are followed b}^ broad valleys and open prairies or plains proi)er.
The freciuent arrangement of the land along streams into terraces or
successive '-benches" is of considerable importance from an agricul-
tural point (»f view, since very often the table-lands (lifter considerably
from the valleys below as to the supply of moisture and the earliness
and length of the growing season. This is well illustrated by the
Gallatin Valley about Bozeman, Mont., where the season is much

13

earlier on the table-lands. Often it is a difficult matter to get water
for irrigation upon these benches, and farmers must depend upon the
snow and rain for the supply of moisture for their crops. Along some
of the streams, as in the case of the Big Horn Eiver in Wyoming,
there are no benches or terraces, the valley being limited by high,
abrupt bluffs leading to the uplands which rise gradually to the foot-
hills and mountains.

Extending to the eastward from the principal ranges of the Conti-
nental Divide are the vast stretches of level plain, rolling prairie, and
rough, eroded bad lands, constituting the great range region east of
the Eocky Mountains. Over a considerable portion of this region
rugged buttes are scattered here and there in addition to the previously
mentioned outlying mountains, relieving the monotony of prairie and
plain and affording welcome landmarks for the cowboy and traveler.
Occasionally considerable portions of the plains area are cut off" from
the remainder by natural barriers of hills and mountain ranges, form-
ing drainage basins of considerable extent, as in the case of the Judith
basin, in Montana, and the Big Horn basin and the Laramie plains, in
Wyoming.

THE SOIL.

The character of the soil in the eastern Eocky Mountain region is
exceedingly varied. According to Prof. W. C. Knight, "the various
geological formations which have entered into the soils of Wyoming
range from Archiean to the Pliocene Tertiary," and the great variability
in the composition of the different soils is readily explained from the
fact that "some of them have been derived from the entire series of
rocks ranging from the Archaean to the close of the Tertiary, while
others are the result of the decaying of a single geological horizon."
These statements are essentially true of ^Montana and Colorado. The
soil in the valleys varies from light sandy loam to a heavy black loam
or a stiff clay. Sometimes a great deal of gravel is present, and
often, particularly in the higher valleys, the surface is strewn with
bowlders of various sizes brought down by glaciers or mountain tor-
rents. These bowlders are particularly abundant In the valleys of
some of the streams rising in the Big Horn, Shoshone, and Medicine
Bow mountains, often rendering it practically impossil)le to drive
through with a wagon. The ranchers assert that when the land is
brought under irrigation these bowlders gradually work into the soil
and in a few years all the smaller ones disap])ear beneath the surface,
making it possible to use the land for hay meadows. The soil is
usually fertile and gives excellent yields of grass. In many places
the clay contains quantities of "alkali" and constitutes the so-called
"gumbo" and "adobe" soils. The soil of the foothills and mesas is
usually quite sandy or gravelly, and is warmer, and hence earlier, than
the heavier soil of the valleys. On the prairies and plains the soil
varies from a sandy to a clay loam, in some places thick and well sup-

14

plied with bumus, iu others thin and poor. Throughout the greater
part of this region the subsoil is clayey, but in some localities, i^articu-
larly near the mountains, where the drift aud wash is great, it may be
(juite gravelly in nature. Over the entire region, outside of the moun-
tains and higher foothills, the soil is characterized by the presence of
a greater or less amount of alkali. In the well-drained soils of the
footliills, mesas, and rolling prairies the amount of alkali present is
usually small, but in the broad, flat valleys and level plains it is often
hirge — sometimes so great as to completely change the character of the

vegetation. (See tig.
3.) The water from
rains and melting
snows passes over
and through the sur-
face soil and leaches
out the alkali, which
is carried to the
streams, lakes, and
ponds. Naturally,
much of this water is
gathered into low
places in the plains
and valleys, where
it is evaporated rap-
idly, leaving the al-
kali in the surround-
ing soil. In many
places the alkali has
been brought to the
surface in consider-
able ([uantitics as a
result of improper
irrigation. This is
especially likely to
occur if water is used
in large (piantities
and then allowed to
evaporate from the surface. This maybe avoided in a large degree by
frecpient and shallow cultivation after each application of water. Often
the water used in irrigating is heavily charged with alkali, which, added
to that already present in the soil, ultimately renders the latter unlit
for the successful growing of the ordinary farm crops. In pojjular par-
lance there are two kinds of "alkali'' lands — "black alkali'' and
"white alkali." The former owes its peculiarities to the jiresence of
salsoda (sodium carbonate) and the latter to tlie presence of (ilauber
salt (sodinm sulphate) and lOpsom salt (magnesium sulphate i. The
"black alkali" is much more injurious to vegetation than the "white
alkali," and fortunately is much less cominon in this region.

4;

'^i

y.

Tig. 3. — An ''.Mkali sjiot." sliowiiii; cliaiiu tcrislic greascwooil Vf;;e-

tatioii.

15

THE WATER SUPPLY.

Over a considerable portion of tbe region under consideration the
annual precii)itation, or rainfall, is quite limited. In the great plains
area it is not probable that the average would be over 10 or 12 inches
per annum — more in the favored localities and less elsewhere. On the
mountains and in their immediate vicinity water is usually abundant,
and were it not for the many lofty peaks, whose perennial snows supply
the streams originating in them, the country would be a desert indeed,
and agriculture impossible. As it is, the farmer or stockman is filled
with joy when he sees the mountain tops becoming whitened with heavy
snows; for they promise him a plentiful supply of water for his crops
and his stock during- the summer months. Countless streams fed
by these snows find their way down to the plain, where they unite to
form the larger water- courses — the Missouri, Yellowstone, Platte, and
Arkansas rivers. Were it possible to properly husband the water
flowing in these streams so that it could be distributed over the land
when it is most needed, the forage problem would be a simple one and
easily settled in a very large portion of this ^region for a long time to
come.

Under the present condition much of the water runs off during the
spring freshets and is lost, wL yops and stock often suffer severely
for water later in the season. This trouble is sometimes aggravated by
the removal of the forest cover in the mountains by fires or by the
wholesale cutting of timber. The proper maintenance of this forest
cover about the source of the streams furnishing water for irrigation is
a matter of vital importance to this whole region, and every possible
effort should be put forth to secure it from destruction. A correspond-
ent from Eoutt County, Colo., writes, "The greatest evil to the range
is the destruction of the timber and underbrush at the head of the
streams through fires," and many other correspondents have expressed
similar views. A good illustration of the injurious effect of the
destruction of the forest cover was observed the past season in the
Big Horn Mountains, where thousands of acres of spruce and pine tim-
ber have been killed by fire, allowing the early and rapid running off
of water from the melting snows, and a consequent shortage later in
the season in the streams depending upon them for their supply.

Out on the plains, away from the mountains, not only is the i)recipi
tation less, but the streams are farther apart, and many of them, because
of the excessive evaporation or porous character of the bed, become dry
during the summer and autumn months, so that the water supply is
insufficient for irrigation, and often it is difficult and sometimes even
impossible for the rancher to obtain enough to water his stock. Ani-
mals wandering back and forth in search of water trample out and
destroy many of the valuable grasses which would otherwise be able
to survive the drought. During freshets resulting from melting of the
snows in the spring on such a wide expanse of territory, with little if

16

anything to retard the rush of the water into the streams and low
phices, immense quantities of water are entirely lost. Again, the raiu
often comes in such sudden and violent storms that but a small propor-
tion of it has time to soak into the soil, the rest rushes into the water-
courses, and is speedily carried away. Thus many localities suffer from
lack of water, although the annual precipitation, could it be preserved,
would, perhaps, be amply sufficient for present needs.

The Belle Fourche Eiver drains a considerable territory in north-
eastern Wyoming, and during the spring it becomes a raging torrent,
carrying off immense quantities of water, while it is often so low dur-
ing the dry season that no water runs through it in the upper part of
its course. The construction of reservoirs to catch and retain the water
from the rains and melting snow would undoubtedly go a long way
toward the solution of the forage question in many localities on the
open ranges. In many i)laces there are natural basins which could be
made into reservoirs at a very small expeuse compared with the great
good to the farmers and stockmen which this conservation of water
would accomplish.

The excessive trampling of the stock and consecpient packing of the
soil and the destruction of vegetation in the immediate vicinity of the
springs and small streams are no doubt largely responsible for the fact
that many of them are now dry for some time during the summer and
autumn, though in former years they furnished water throughout the
season. Very naturally the stock eats the forage nearest to the water-
ing places first. Soon the vegetation becomes closely cropped, and as
the animals visit the watering places daily, the plants are allowed no
opportunity to recuperate, and as a result the ground is soon almost
or quite destitute of vegetation.

PRESENT ASPECT OF THE FOKAGE PROBLEM.

The as])ect of the forage question has changed very materially
throughout the eastern Kocky Mountain region in the past ten or
fifteen years. Formerly comparatively little general agriculture was
I)racticed, except in a few localities near the larger cities and towns.
Lack of moisture or of facilities for irrigation made itdiflicult to secure
good crops. Many of the early settlers were engaged in mining, and
in the eager search for gold and silver found little time or inclination
to engage in agricultural i)ursuits unless forced to do so by the faihire
of tlieir mining ventures; others, noticing the great abundance of nutri-
tious forage, bent their energies toward getting together as much stock
as possible in order that they might take full advantage of this great
natural resoun^e. This course soon resulted in the establishment of
numerous large ranches, each controlling a wide stretch of territory,
and Tiatnrally discouraged the taking up of tillable lands for general
agiicultnral i)uri)oses. Hence, farming was largely confined to small
inclosed areas on the ranches and to the more protected localities

17

near the larger settlements. Owing to the light rainfall during the
summer and autumn the native grasses cured on the ground in such
excellent condition that little if any hay or grain was necessary to
Citrry the stock through the winter, and the rancher preferred to buy
imported flour and canned fruits and vegetables than to bother about
farming.

Upon the advent of the recent series of dry seasons it soon became
evident that the ranges were too heavily stocked. Ranchmen were
forced to provide forage for their stock in order to carry it through the
winter. This has led to the fencing of hay meadows and the cultiva-
tion of alfalfa, timothy, and other hay and forage crops. But this
made stock raising more expensive and forced many of the large con-
cerns to go out of business. Then, too, as irrigatiou began to be
practiced it soon became evident that many portions of the region were
adapted to general farming, and settlers began to take up the land
along the streams and to i)lant it to crojjs of various kinds. This
interfered with the methods of ranging stock practiced on the large
ranches, and the stockmen were forced to reduce their herds or seek new
ranges. Very often it was found to be more profitable to divide the
big ranch into small holdings and sell or rent to farmers and small
ranchmen than to continue in the stock business.

In many instances the stockmen owned but little, or noue, of the land
over which their stock grazed, and their improvements were of little
value. In other cases large tracts of land had been purchased or
leased and considerable sums of money expended in building fences
and making other improvements. As the country has become more and
more settled, the former class has largely disappeared. The ranches
of the latter class have either accommodated themselves to the changed
conditions and developed into the large successfully conducted stock-
growing establishments of to-day or have given way entirely to the
smaller ranch and farm, where a combination of stock raising and croo
growing is practiced.

This changed condition of things is very apparent in northern Wyo-
ming, where in many places the land of the valleys has recently been
brought under irrigation and affords fine crops of wheat, oats, rye,
barley, early corn, timothy, clover, redtop, and alfalfa. On the Gray
Bull River and elsewhere in the Big Horn Basin the change has been
brought about largely within the past five or ten years. Instead of
the large herds, controlled by a«comparatively few wealthy men or by
stock companies, the tendency is toward the smaller herds of the indi-
vidual rancher. Instead of depending so largely upon the Southwest
for young cattle the ranchmen are beginning to raise more young stock
themselves, and they are beginning to handle better-bred animals and
to bring them to a marketable condition at an earlier age.

One of the most pressing needs of this region is a hay plant that Avill
endure the dry weather and afibrd profitable yields. In localities where
20013— No. 12 2

18

water can be had for irrigation there is usually little difficulty in rais-
ing plenty of alfalfa, and then the need is for a supplementary hay or
forage of some sort in order that the alfalfa may be fed to the best
advantage. For much the greater portion of the region, however, irri-
gation is either impossible or impracticable, and here a drought-resistant
grass or forage crop is very much needed. Nearly six hundred farmers
and stockmen, representing nearly every county in the States of Colo-
rado, Wyoming, and Montana, and many from adjoining States, in
answer to the question, what is your present greatest need in the way
of forage, place hay and winter forage first, almost without exception.
In some localities winter pasturage is deemed more necessary than
hay or coarse forage, but with the changes in the methods of handling
cattle and the growing tendency toward winter feeding the use of
various kinds of hay and fodder crops is yearly becoming more general.
This, together with the fact that in many localities the range has
been so reduced by drought and overstocking that it is hardly suilicient
for summer paturage alone, making winter feeding absolutely neces-
sary, renders the demand for hay and fodder crops imperative. Then
again, the heavy losses of stock during some of the severe storms of
recent years have taught the ranchmen the necessity of providing
winter feed as a precautionary measure, if for no other reason.

Of scarcely less importance than winter feed, and by some ranchmen
regarded of even more importance, is the need of early pasturage. There
is a period of a month or more, after the breaking up of winter and
before the native grasses get started, which is one of the most critical
for the ranchmen of this region. Stock is more or less weakened as a
result of the winter season, and palatable food is usually exceedingly
scarce. The stockmen say that if some grass (iould be introduced that
would provide pasturage earlier than the native grasses do, it would be
worth many thousands of dollars to them annually.

Another matter of great importance to the ranchmen of the North-
west is the question of autumn forage. The native grasses on the
open ranges dry up in the latter part of the summer. Formerly the
growth was sufficiently abundant to provide plenty of well cured nutri
tious forage, but now the ranges are so baie in many localities at the
end of the summer that stock can get practically no autumn grazing
outshle of the fenced areas. Near the mountains the custom is to
range the stock in the liigher foothills and mountain valleys during the
sununer, and upon the appearance of the early snows to take it down
into the lower foothills, where it is kept during the autumn, or often
the entire winter; but in many places dionglit and overstocking have so
depleted these fall and winter grazing lands that they now afford com-
paratively little forage and are becoming covered with worthless weeds.
In such l(»calities it is necessary to begin feeding the stock long before
winter begins in order to keep it in good condition. The rancher
regards as his most favorable season one in which there is a heavy

19

rainfall during the spring and early summer months, a dry autumn and
an open winter, with little snowfall or with high winds to blow the snow
into the ravines and gullies. This gives a heavy growth of grass,
which cures on the ground, where it can be grazed by the stock during
the late fall and winter.

A considerable portion of this region has an altitude too great for
the successful growing of alfalfa and other commonly cultivated forage
crops, although it includes a great deal of rich land well supplied with
natural moisture or capable of being irrigated readily. Thus in Mon-
tana the altitudinal limit for the successful growing of alfalfa ranges
from about 4,500 to 5,000 feet, and more than one-half of the total area
of the State is above this limit; in Wyoming its altitudinal limit seems
to be not far from 5,000 feet, and over three fourths of the State is above
this altitude ; in Colorado it can be successfully grown up to about
G,500 feet in the northern and 7,500 feet in the southern part of the
State, and nearly one-half of the State is above this limit. Timothy
can usually be successfully grown at an altitude of from 500 to 1.000
feet above that of the limit for alfalfa, and hence replaces it to a greater
or less extent, but there is a very decided demand by tbe farmers and
stockmen for a forage crop adapted to these higher altitudes. Mr.
T. P. McDonald, of Carbon County, Mont., expresses the sentiment of
many when he writes, " We need a good forage plant that will grow
and mature above the 5,000-foot level."

In addition to the above-mentioned needs, all of which are of quite
general importance, there are many of more or less local significance
demanding the attention of the investigator and the farmer. Although
alfalfa and other coarse crops can be raised successfully in most local-
ities and are good for hay, they are not satisfactory for general jiastur-
age, and there is a demand for a good pasture grass to be grown under
irrigation. In other localities the land is too strongly impregnated with
alkali, either from natural causes or through injudicious irrigation, for
the successful cultivation of the ordinary forage crops, and plants are
desired that will flourish on such soil. In still other localities, particu-
larly near the larger cities and towns, crops suitable for soiling are
needed.

In some instances the present lack of forage is due quite as much to
the slowness of the farmers and stockmen to adapt themselves to the
existing conditions as it is to the want of suitable crops for cultivation.
It is hard to get out of the old slip-shod ways, even though it is known
that a little well-directed effort will make a given amount of land yield
several times as much forage as it did formerly. Careful attention to
the development of native meadows and pastures and a more general
cultivation of miscellaneous forage crops that can be grown with at
least a fair degree of success in nearly all localities will do much toward
solving the forage problem.

The effect of such effort is well illustrated by the excellent native

20

meadows that have been produced by intelligent irrigation, examples
of which may be seen along the valleys of the Platte, Bear, Gallatin,
and Belle Fourche rivers, in the Big Horn Basin, as well as along
many other streams of the region. On the other hand, the injurious
effect of careless treatment is very apparent on many ranches where,
because there is a great abundance of water, the meadows are kept so
wet that the better grasses are driven out and their places taken by
sedges and rushes, producing an inferior quality of hay.

The following description of the conditions prevailing on the range
between the Missouri River, in South Dakota, and the Upper Belle
Fourche Eiver, in Wyoming, may be taken as typical of those obtain-
ing over the Northwest generally and illustrative of the marked effect
that an isolated mountainous region like the Black Hills may have
upon forage production and agriculture in general. The notes were
taken during a wagon trip from the (Jheyenue Indian Agency, on the
Missouri River, up the Moreau River and across to the Belle Fourche
River, in northeastern Wyoming, and back through the southern Black
Hills to Pierre, S. Dak.

FORAGE CONDITIONS ON THE RANGE OF WESTERN SOUTH DAKOTA
AND NORTHEASTERN WYOMING.*

CHEYENNE AGENCY TO BELLE FOUECHE RIVER.

This region varies greatly in the character of its surface. The laud
near the streams, especially the Moreau and the Missouri rivers, is
exceptionally rough. There are no great elevations or depressions, but
the smaller ones are a host. Back 3 or 4 miles from the river there are
table lands of considerable extent which are comparatively level, even
in the lower course. Farther west the country is not so rough, the
region from the mouth of Thunder Creek to the Belle Fourche being
an undulating prairie.

The soil over a large part of the eastern portion of the region resem-
bles that east of the Missouri River very much. The humus decreases
gradually to the westward and one encounters more gumbo. The
whole region is covered with grass except occasional small si)ots of
gumbo and the steeper bluffs along the Moreau and Missouri rivers.
The eastern portion of the region differs from the western also in hav-
ing fewer sandy knolls.

All the streams tributary to the Moreau and Cheyenne are wooded
to some extent. There are two or three conditions which are suggestive
in regard to the growth of timber. The soil is heavy and does not
allow the water to percolate through it very easily, but when once
started washes badly. This leads to washouts and holes in the stream

*A1>striict from the report of Mr. David firiffitlis, who served as field a<;<'nt for the
divinion in South Dakota and Wyoming under a commission extending fri>m the
middle of July to the middle of September, 18137.

21

beds which hold water until late iu the summer. The trees getting
started around these water-holes are supplied with sufficient moisture
during- the growing season. The stockmen and Indians have exercised
much vigilance of late in keeping out fires. Near Bixby it was stated
that it has been ten years since fire has passed over that region.
When fire does get started, it
is not so destructive to trees
and shrubbery as it would be
if there was more grass on
the ground. Almost invari-
ably we found the feed very
short near the water- lioles.
During the summer the range
cattle feed near the water,
working back on to the o])en
range as feed conditions de-
ma n d . Consequently, by
the time vegetation is dry
enough to burn, the grass
in the vicinity of the water-
holes is very short and fire
does not do so much damage.

The timber along the Mo-
reau is made up of cotton-
wood, willows, buffalo berry,
box elder, green ash, white
elm, plums, and cherries,
with buck-bush, poison oak,
and various species of rose as
uudershrubs. On the bluffs
on either side are found Rhm
trilohata and an occasional
red cedar. Sage-brush ( A rte-
misia JongifoUa) is common
over limited areas in the
western portion of the region,
while species of cactus are
common everywhere.

The feed on the Indian reservation is much superior to that farther
west, the main reason for this being that it is not pastured so closely.
The Indians have only a few cattle, and it appeared that they were
taking considerable pains to keep the feed along the Moreau River for
winter use. However this may be, Ave saw but few cattle on the river
bottom while on the reservation. Neither were any Indians seen except-
ing at three points on the river. Their log houses and stables were in
evidence all along, but no Indians or cattle to speak of. They were

Fig. 4. — Fresli-water cord-grass (Spartina cynosuroides) :
a, spikelet, showing three stamens; &, spikelet, show-
ing the projecting stigmas of the pistil; c, the same,
with the outer glumes removed.

22

congregated at Wliite Horse camp and tlie agency. Near each one of
tliese bouses was a small piece of ground, from 2 to 3 acres, fenced and
under cultivation. Their crops consist of corn, potatoes, pumpkins,
and melons. These were usually well tended and a good crop. There
were a few pieces of wheat which were an average crop. The Indians
evidently do not cultivate the same piece of ground for many years in
succession. It was not an uncommon thing to find patches of ground,
which had once been under cultivation, all grown up to weeds, and the
fence removed from it, possibly to get fresh soil, but probably more
often to get rid of the weeds. It was learned that the Indians make
almost no preparation for winter feeding, except to save, as much as pos-
sible, the feed around their winter quarters. As they have but a small
bunch of cattle, they are able to keep close watch of them. (^)uite a
number of cattle were seen which were being driven down to the agency
to be sold for beef They were invariably in good condition.

After leaving the Missouri bottoms no big sand-grass {Calamovilfa
longifoUa) was noticed until the party arrived at the Moreau near White
Horse camp. Big cord-grass {Spartina cynosuroides) (fig. 4) is the
principal grass along the ravines and gullies, and big sand-grass is
very common on the knolls farther west. The distribution of big sand-
grass, of course, throws much light on the character of the soil. Both
of these grasses were pastured closely in the western portion of the
region where the feed was short. Usually these grasses are not cut
for hay, but this season it is said that they will form the bulk of it,
owing to the scarcity of wheat-grass,

Prairie June-grass {Koekria cristata) is a much more important grass
on the high prairie in the eastern portion of this region than anywhere
else we visited. The small table lands back 3 or 4 miles from the river
invariably contain fine growths of this grass, at times almost to the
exclusion of the other grasses. There was a large area near Virgin
Buttes that stood 10 inches high and so thick that the heads which
were then ripe gave a brown appearance to the whole area. It is very
common on all the high ground.

rorcui)ine-grass {Stipa spariea) and needle-grass {Stipa comata) are
found to some extent all along the Moreau bottoms, the latter becoming
a very important pasture grass to the westward. Feather bunch-grass
{S. viriclula) is more important on the highland regions eastward. Here
it is a very valuable pasture grass and is often found with western
wheat-grass {A(/ropi/ron spicatum) and blue grama [BouicUma oUfi<>-
stachya) in sufficient (piantity to nnike considerable hay.

The more important grasses and forage plants of the region are as
follows: Blue grama {Boiiteloua olujostaclnja), western wheat-grass
{Agropyron Hpicatum)^ big blue stem {Andropogon provhicialis), prairie
June-grass (Koeleria cristata), big cord-grass (.S>rrr^/?ja cynosnroides),
needle-grass {Stqjci comata), feather bunch-grass {S. riridula), big sand-
grass {Calamovilfa longifoiia), buffalo-grass [Bulbil is dactyloides),

23

Dakota vetch {Lotus amtricanus), wild rye {Elymns canadensis), and
Carex fiUfoJia. The hist is of special value early iu the season.

Dakota vetch {Lotas amcricanus) is very abundant along the river
bottoms. There are often large patches of it which are almost pure.
If this proves valuable under cultivation it will be easily propagated,
for it produces an abundance of seed. It has, however, the disadvan-
tage of ripening its seed unevenly. Usually the older pods have burst
open before the later ones have ripened.

BUTTE POST-OFFICE TO DEVILS TOWER.

The change that takes place as one proceeds along the Owl Butte
road from Dead Horse Creek toward the foothills of the Black Hills is
something wonderful. One passes from a region where the ranches are
5 to 40 miles apart, where there is practically no cultivation, and where
there is nothing to break the monotony of the scene but bunches of
cattle feeding in the "draws" and an occasional patch of scrubby box
elder and ash on the creek bottoms, to a thickly settled region, where
thei c are good buildings, excellent crops of grain and hay, and where
everything iu the shape of vegetation makes a thrifty growth. The
greater part of the land along the Belle Fourche from Butte to the
Tower is fenced, either for growing cultivated crops or for winter feed.
For about half the distance from Butte to Belle Fourche the route was
through a narrow lane left for a road and in which there was no feed
whatever — everything being pastured closely. The farmers fence their
crops, pastures, and hay land, and turn their cattle out into the roads
which lead into the Black Hills on one side and into the open range on
the other. The party, at times, experienced some trouble in finding
feed for their horses.

Nearly everything depends on irrigation here, the water being car-
ried from tributaries of the Belle Fourche by a system of ditches
and sluices onto the land. Nowhere is water taken from the Belle
Fourche itself, the reason being that the river has not sufficient fall to
enable farmers to get the water onto the land without too great an
expense. It was learned also that the volume of water in the river
fluctuates greatly, a rise of many feet occurring in a few hours at times
when heavy rains fall in portions of its drainage basin. Damming has
been tried in several localities without success. As the tributaries from
the hills are quite numerous, the farmers are usually able, by judicious
management, to get a sufficient volume of water for their crops from
them. Usually the water is exhausted before the middle of July, but
by an intelligent use of their supply during May and June they are
able to raise fine crops. In many instances the farmers get along by
building a dam across a gully and holding the water derived from
melting snows and spring rains until it is needed later iu the season.
In the immediate vicinity of Belle Fourche opportunity was afforded
to study the effect of an abundant supply of water the entire season.
It is here obtained from one of the tributaries of the Bed Water.

24

Here was found a most luxuriant growth of both native and culti-
vated vegetation. As flue fields of wheat were found here as in the
great small-grain belt in the eastern part of the State, while the hay
croj) was something wonderfal. The uuirrigated lands, however, pre-
sented an appearance not unlike the drier portions of the open range
farther east.

The principal hay crop is alfalfa, of which, they obtain about 4 tons
per acre from three cuttings, which is the usual method of handling.
The farmers were experimenting with a fourth cutting this year, and
were considerably encouraged over the prospect at the time the region
was visited. This crop is prized very highly because of the fact that
they are able to get such a yield per acre. Many other hay crops are
grown very successfully, but none yields such a quantity of feed as
this one.

Kedtop makes the finest growth here of any place visited on the trip.
On the Seth Bullock ranch there is a large meadow which w;is sown to
redtop and timothy eight or ten years ago. The timothy is now nearly
all run out, while the redtop this year is a fine stand about two feet
high.

Besides the above may be mentioned timothy, white sweet clover
{Melilotus alha), millet, and June clover, all of Avhich make good
growths. White sweet clover {Melilotus alba) is so persistent in its
habits that it assumes much of the characteristics of a weed along the
ditches and among otlier jierennial forage crops. It makes an immense
growth wherever it gets started on irrigated land. At Belle Fourche
was seen near a spring about an acre that stood about 9 feet high.

Native grasses are also irrigated with good success. When, however,
a piece of ground is irrigated year after year, that invaluable species,
Aiiropyron spicatum, runs the other grasses out. Several instances of
this were seen and attention was called to it, not only in the vicinity
of Belle Fourche, but farther west, in Wyoming, as well. The most
striking example was near Snoma, S. Dak., where there was a meadow
of 30 or 40 acres of this grass, with a crop of about 2 tons to the acre.
About one-fourth of it was headed out. It was raining at the time of
the visit and the grass, therefore, looked fresh and thrifty. Such a
large field of this glaucous leafed grass made a very pretty sight. It
was ascertained that this meadow had l>een irrigated and cut lor five
consecutive years with a good crop of hay upon it each year. Such a
condition is really extraordinary, for ranchmen on the range and even
the farmers in the eastern part of the State are seldom able to cut
crops of this on the same ground for more than two years in succession.
Even when pastured closely year after year the quantity of feed becomes
very small. P>ut this is sim[)ly one more evidence of Avhat a ])roper
amount of water will accom])lish when applied to this soil.

llarnyard-grass (Panicum cnis-galli) makes a fine growth along the
ditches and roadsides where the sod has been ])artially subdued. It

25

has two distinct forms of growth. Along the ditches and among other
grasses it assumes an upright form, while along roads and in barnyards,
where the ground is packed down to some extent, it is almost prostrate
and often strikes root at the joints. It appears to thrive as well under
this form of irrigation as it does under artesian irrigation in the eastern
part of the State.

Squirrel-tail grass {Hordeum Juhatum) is a bad weed wherever the
perennial grasses are ii^rigated on low, alkaline ground.

Besides the usual forage crops there is a great deal of rye, wheat,
and oats cut for hay. Winter rye is usually sown. These crops are
resorted to only in the drier portions of the region or where no water is
available for irrigating purposes. Although small grain is raised here
successfully with irrigation, the main crop is hay. There is consider-
able feeding done during the winter. The big cattle companies make
provision with the settlers here, and also with the ranchmen farther
out on the range, for the wintering of calves and weak cows which are
picked up during the last beef " round-up " in the fall.

The distribution of precipitation is very peculiar. The rainfall is
much more abundant in the vicinity of the Black Hills than on the open
range on either side. While irrigation is resorted to with profit
wherever practicable, the region is not dependent on it entirely. Occa-
sionally good crops of grain are raised without irrigation, but it is
rather uncertain. When wheat and oats are sown for the grain and
the crop proves to be a failure, it can usually be told in time so that it
can be cut early enough to make good hay, which is always in demand.
In the vicinity of Sundance, Wyo., and elsewhere along the base of the
Bear Lodge Mountains, very fair crops are usually raised with no arti-
ficial watering. This year the prospects near Sundance were very good,
but they had the misfortune of being "hailed" out.

The Bear Lodge Mountains are in general covered with pine {Pint(s
sco2)uIo}'um), with an occasional grove of oak, poplar, and birch. The
pine is especially heavy on the outer slopes of the mountains and in the
"draws" and gulches farther up. Along the divides and edges of
"draws" there is very fine pasturage. The range cattle do not get in
here to any extent, partly from choice but principally on account of the
fact that ranchers have fenced most of the land along the base of the
mountains separating the open range from the mountain pasture lands.
Common along the Bear Lodge Mountains is King's fescue (Festuca
kingii), which makes a fine growth below the lower timber line and is
very common at higher elevations. It is highly prized by the ranchmen
along the base of the mountains on account of its early spring growth.
It furnishes pasturage at a much earlier date than any other native
grass. Occasionally it makes some hay, but it is looked upon as a
pasture rather than a hay grass.

26

DEVILS TOWER TO NEW CASTLE.

As one proceeds up the Belle Foiircbe from the Tower he can not
helj) but notice the gradual decrease of the pine timber. It becomes
more and more scrubby until it practically disappears at the mouth of
Wind Creek. On the bluffs ou either side of the stream is a growth of
jtine, with some oak, and on the bottoms there is a good growth of Cot-
tonwood, with more or less of the bufi'alo berry, green ash, box elder, and
an occasional plum and cherry thicket. There is always a very vigor-
ous growth of roses, buck-bush, and sage-brush. There are large areas
on the bottoms covered with long-leafed sage {Artemisia longifoUa),
almost to the exclusion of other vegetation.

Some difficulty was experienced iu finding feed for the horses in the
upper Belle Fourche region, not that the country is not productive,
but there are too many cattle. It would be difficult to tell what grasses
grow ou the river bottom were it not for the winter pastures which are
fenced in. During the two nights spent here the party managed to
camp in these winter pastures where there were good growths of blue
grama {Bouteloua olifjostachya), needle-grass {Sfipa comata), feather
bunch-grass {S. riridula), western wheat-grass {Agropijron spinitum),
jirairie June-grass {Koeleria cristata), big sand-grass [Calamovilfa
longifnlid), big cord-grass {Spartina eynosHroide.s), slender cord- grass (<S^.
gracilis), wild rye {Ulymiis canadensis), sand rush-grass {Sporoh<di(s
cryptandrns), and Montana sand grass {Calamagrosiis montanensis).
The main hay grass is western wheat-grass, which is cut in fenced areas
along the river bottoms and farther back ou the range, along creek
bottoms. Water for irrigating purposes is rather scarce, but wherever
foun<l and used good crops of alfalfa are raised. The rainfall is much
less than it is in the vicinity of the Bear Lodge Mountains. As near
as we were able to learn the rainfall is seldom sufficient to mature a crop
of snuill grain after one gets 10 miles west of the Bear Lodge Mountains.

It appears to be the common experience that native sod when irri-
gated grows up almost exclusively to Agropyron spicatum, which is
known by the name of wheat-grass. Several instances of this were
seen — one at Mr. Baugh's, another at Mr. McKean's, farther up the
river.

A great deal of the country about Moorcroft is covered with si)ecies
of sage-brush, salt-sage, greasewood, and cactus. This is in the edge
of the sage-brush plains of Wyoming. To the east are the hills, covered
with a good growth of pine. This condition continues nearly to Merino,
where the railroad works back toward the western tind)er line of the
foothills. The soil is largely of a clayey nature, nuich of it of the sort
l)oi>ularly called "gumbo," and washes very badly. The rain does not
soak into the ground much, but runs off" into the streams, often swell-
ing them to enormous extent. Amcmg the sage-brush and cacti are
good growths of grasses, generally those which do not form a sod under
ordinary conditions. Among the most important may be mentioned

27

needle-grass {StijJO, comata) and western wheat-grass {Agropyron fipi-
cation ). On the divides are found big sand-grass {Calamovilfa loiuji-
folia) and blue grama {Bouteloiia oligostachya), while big cord grass
{Spartina cynosuroides) and salt-grass {Distichlis spicata) are the most
common on the low ground, is eedle- grass {Stipa comata) is a very
important grass m this region. Xorthwest" of New Castle, near the
junction of the Burlington and Missouri River llailroad and Skull
Creek, it is especially common. In this vicinity and extending south-
ward into the oil regions are large areas among the sage-brush where
no other grasses grow.

As one approaches Inyan Kara Mountain the country assumes much
the appearance of that around Sundance, as would be expected. There
are more streams, and consequently more water available for irrigation.
The rainfall is also more abundant, and the soil has more sand and
humus in its make-up. The mountain and all the elevations in the
neighborhood are covered with pine, while groves of poplar, birch, and
oak are common. The creeks have a growth of cottonwood, box elder,
and green ash. Springs of pure soft water are common near the base
of the mountain.

Near Inyan Kara we found a ranchman drilling with the expectation
of getting a tiow of water. He started in last year, when he struck
a stratum from which water raised within a few feet of the surface.
Be renewed his efibrts this year, hoping to get a sufficient flow to
irrigate from. The open range is closely pastured here also. Here
again it was learned that until about four years ago haj" could be cut
anywhere on the upland, but for the past few years the cattle have
become so numerous that they keep the grass eaten off so closely that
the effect is much the same as successive cutting year after year. Occa-
sionally a ranchman attributes the short crop of the past few years to
drought, but the majority of them agree that it is due to overstocking.

We found more and better farming along Skull Creek than along the
Upper Belle Fourche. This is probably due largely to the better facili-
ties for irrigation. There are ranches at short distances along the
creek, and considerable hay was being put up. Alfalfa is their main
crop whenever they can get water onto the land. Timothy is raised to
some extent, and rye and oats are common hay crops. Xo running
water was found until the party got down near the Burlington and
Missouri River Railroad. There is as good an illustration of the effect
of water on the growth of vegetation here as one could wish to see.
On the one hand there is a perfect wilderness of sage-brush {Artemisia
longifolia and A. tridentata) as far as the eye can reach, with the usual
light growth of grass, forming no sod to speak of; on the other, native
grasses, alfalfa, oats, and garden truck make a fine growth with arti-
ficial watering.

28

THE SOUTHERN BLACK HILLS REGION.

The arable laud in the region between Xew Castle, Wyo., and Eapid
City, S. Dak., is contined to the valleys and creek bottoms which lie
between the difterent ridges in the Black Hills uplieaval. The crops
raised are about the same as at Belle Fourche and along the eastern
foothills. It appears to be the practice in localities here as at Belle
Fourche to seed for a crop of grain, and if the yield does not promise
well it is cut for hay before it becomes thoroughly ripened. Some very

fine crops of alfalfa, wheat, and
oats were seen in Spring Creek
Valley. Eedtop and timothy
are common on the larger areas
of low ground. Eedto]) is espe-
cially abundant, and there was
a fine crop of hay in Rapid
Creek Yalley to the southwest
of Rapid City.

The climatic conditions are in
marked contrast with those at
a lower elevation. Harvesting
was in jirogress in the vicinity
of Belle Fourche the 1st of
August, but I'O or 25 days later,
when the party crossed the
Black Hills on their return trip,
a great deal of wheat and oats
were still green. Only about one-
half of the crop through the hills
had been cut at this late date.
A beautiful arrangement of
native grasses is found along
the foothills near Rapid City.
There are a great many cattle
pastured here, and the grasses
are conse(piently kept eaten
down ([uite closely. There are
three species, which form a perfect sod in places. The country is roll-
ing— sometimes hilly. In the depressions are patches of ground several
acres in extent which are as smooth as though they had been laid
out by artificial means. On these areas are full sods of blue grama
{Bouteloua oli(fostachya), black grama {B. hirsiita), and builalo-grass
[Bnlbilis (lactyloides) (see fig. 5), arranged in natural lawns, as it were,
according to nature's own fantastic designs. It made a very pretty
siiiht. Xo artificial lawn could be more desinible. The color of the
grasses, so similar and yet so delicately ditVerent that each species
growing in separate patches could be recognized at a considerable dis-

FiG. 5.— Bufl'alo-grass {Bulbilis dactyloides) : a, female
plant ; b, male plant ; a', two dusters of female spike-
lets; h', a branch of several staminato spikelets;
c, a male or stamlnate spikelet of two dowers.

29

tance, the splendid sod, and the pleasing general effect suggested the
jwssible use that might be made of these grasses for lawns, borders, and
designs about dwellings, public buildings, and cemeteries.

RAPID CITY TO PIERRE.

Nowhere on the trip was better feed found than along the trail from
Rapid City to Pierre. No pasturing had been done here except at
certain points, as Pceno Tlills and Grindstone Buttes. This is due mainly
to the fact that our route lay along the divide, where water is scarce. It
was the intention of the party to take the Bad River road, and they
would have done so had they not been informed that everything was
pastured closely all the way. Blue grama {Bouteloua olujostacliya) makes
a fine growth here and was nice and green the 1st of September. Con-
siderable hay was being put up in the eastern portion of the region. It
consisted principally of Western wheat-grass {Agropyron splcatum) and
blue grama [Boutelona oligostachya), together with some feather bunch-
grass {Stipa viridula) and needle-grass {8. comata). In the "draws"
there is more of the Agrojjyron and less of the Boutelona. In the larger
draws there is a good growth of big cord-grass {Spartina cynositroides)
and on the knolls a light growth of big sand-grass {Calamovilfa longi-
folia).

At Pierre the cattlemen were much exercised over the fact that the
grass on the range was so backward in ripening. They were fearful
lest it should remain green until frost struck it, thereby leaving their
winter feed in poor condition. They were therefore well pleased with
the hot, dry weather which prevailed during the first ten days in Sep-
tember.

CULTIVATED GRASSES AND FORAGE PLANTS.

The failure of the ranges to sux^ply sufficient forage for all seasons of
the year has led to an Increased effort on the part of the stockmen and
farmers to cultivate the various standard grass and forage crops. In
many instances experiments have been made with the different novel-
ties introduced and sold by seedsmen or distributed g; atuitously by the
United States Department of Agriculture. As was to be expected, the
old and so-called ''tame'' grasses have refused to accommodate them-
selves to the extreme conditions of soil and climate prevailing in some
parts of the region, and while a few of the newly introduced plants have
proved valuable, many others have shown themselves to be practically
worthless. The '' tame " grasses most commonly found in meadows and
pastures are timothy, redtop, Kentucky blue grass, smooth or Hun-
garian brome-grass, meadow fescue, and orchard grass. The millets
and the various small grains are quite generally grown for summer for-
age and for hay, and corn and the sorghums, both saccharine and non-
saccharine varieties, are occasionally grown for fodder. Nearly all the

30

common clovers are successfully grown in some part of the region,
alfalfa and red clover being in most general cultivation. Very few of
the large ranches are without fields of timothy, redtop, clover, or alfalfa;
often all are grown on the same ranch. Sometimes these fields cover
hundreds of acres and yield thousands of tons of hay. Almost without
.exception they are irrigated, at least for a portion of the season. In
many localities the proprietors of the large ranches prefer not to bother
with the extensive cultivation of forage crops that would be necessary
to properly feed their herds during the winter, depending upon the
small ranchmen and farmers in the valleys for their winter forage sup-
ply. The liay is sold to the ranchmen, or more often the cattle are
brought to tlie farmer and he winters them at so much per head. This
winter feeding of range stock is becoming quite an industrj' and could,
no doubt, be more generally practiced with advantage to both the large
and the small ranch owner. Up to the present time winter feeding is
largely, in fact almost entiiely, confined to cows, calves, and bulls: the
most of the stock being expected to -'rustle*' its living on the range
except during very stormy weather, when a little hay may be fed.

TIMOTHY.

Phleum jJratense.

This is more widely cultivated than any other " tame " grass in the
eastern Rocky Mountain region. The cheapness of the seed, the ease
with which a meadow can be seeded down, and the excellent (juality of
the hay make this grass a great favorite. In most localities irrigation
is necessary to grow it successfully, but with plenty of water enormous
yields are often obtained, particularly in the rich valleys in the north-
ern part of the region. Reports of the successful cultivation of this
grass have been received from every county in both Montana and
Wyoming, and from nearly every county in Colorado, but always under
irrigation except in some of the moister valleys in or near the moun-
tains. Sage-brush lands when cleared, irrigated, and seeded to tim-
othy make fine meadows, but the greasewood lands are too strongly
im])regnated witli alkali. Timothy can be grown successfully at a
higher altitude than most of the other commonly grown grasses, and is
becoming quite generally established in waste places and along trails
throughout the entire region. Several of the field agents of the divi-
sion have reported finding it well established in many places in the
mountains. Professor Pammcl found it llonrishing at an elevation of
10,.jOO ieet in northern Colorado, and the writer found it at a similar
elevation in the central part of the State. In the Bear Lodge ]Moun-
tains and in the Black Hills it is very abundant at 5,000 and (1,000
feet, making a very fine growth, and is sj)reading very ra])idly in
moist, open situations along the trails. In the Big Horn Mountains of
Wyoming and in the Spanish Basin in Montana it was found to be
abundant, growing with alpine timothy {Phleum alpinum L. ) ar liom

31

7,000 to 8,000 feet or more. This ability of timothy to establish itself
and thrive at comparatively high altitudes makes it of special value
for a large i)ortioii of this region. Speaking' in this connection Mr.
W. S. Coburu, of Delta County, Colo., says "timothy grows to perfec-
tion up to an elevation of 9,000 feet," and Mr. T. P. McDonald, of Carbon
County, Mont., says "alfalfa aud clover do well below the 4,500-foot
level, but above that altitude timothy is the most successful."

RBDTOP.

Af/rostis alha.

This grass stands very close to timothy in its importance as a
meadow grass for this region. Its cultivation is less general than that
of timothy, however, being more strictly confined to the lower mountain
valleys and better irrigated localities, and it is much more generally
grown in Montana than in either Wyoming or Colorado. Like timothy,
it is becoming well established in the native meadows and waste places.
It thrives best on quite moist bottom lands, and is especially valuable
on meadow lands liable to overflow. It is a common practice to sow
this grass in irrigated native meadows to supplement the native spe-
cies. It occupies the low marshy places and resists. the encroachments
of sedges and rushes better than timothy or the common native grasses.
Though usually grown in connection with other grasses or with clovers,
it makes a fine meadow when grown alone under proper irrigation.
One of the finest redtop meadows ever seen by the writer was on a large
horse ranch on the Gray Bull Eiver, Wyoming. About 80 acres of the
grass were standing at the time of the visit (August, 1897), and some
had already been harvested. The land was the common sage-brush
land of the valley, and had been given but little cultivation before being
seeded down, but was well irrigated. The field was " as even as a
floor," and as the mower passed along, it was noticed that the grass
came well up along the sides of the horses. Almost all the cultivated
land on this ranch was devoted to this crop, which is fed to fine-bred
horses.

KENTUCKY BLUE GRASS.
Foa pratensis.

The principal use of Kentucky blue grass in this region is for lawns.
With irrigation fine lawns can be made almost anywhere, if the land is
not too strongly impregnated with alkali. The great difficulty often
experienced in getting a good stand of this grass is one of the chief
drawbacks to its culture here. The seed as sold in the markets is too
often so poor that the farmer fails to get a good stand for his first sow-
ing and gives up in disgust. Then, again, it takes some time for the
grass to form a good sod, and the average Western farmer is too impa-
tient for immediate results to wait for it. ifevertheless this grass is
becoming quite abundant in many of the older settled localities and is
gradually working its way into the meadows and pastures. Together

32

with Canadian blue grass {Poa compressa)^ low spear-grass {Poa anmia),
and redtop, it follows along the irrigating ditches, forming bright green
borders, and affording many juicy mouthfuls for the cattle and other
stock. Like most of the other cultivated grasses, it thrives best in the
rich valleys of the lower mountains and foothills, where it is ])rotectcd
from drought and the excessive heat of midsummer. It is indigenous
in many parts of the Rocky Mountain region.

SMOOTH OR HUNGARIAN BROME-GRASS.
Brornus inermis.

Of all recent introductions smooth brome (see fig. 6) is the most
promising hay and pasture grass for the dry portions of the Northwest.

i^^ot only does it possess ex-
cellent drought - resistant
qualities, but it starts much
earlier in the season than
the common grasses and
continues growing well into
the autumn, two things
very nnich to be desired in a
grass for cultivation in this
region at the present time.
In Colorado the grass lias
been tried in a number of
localities with good success.
In speaking of grasses for
dry situations oil theraiiges,
Mr. R. E. Beatty, of Arapa-
hoe County, says, ^^ Brornus
inermis comes the nearest
to a suitable grass that we
have tried so far;" Mr.
Thomas R. Pace, of Gar-
nett, "recommends smooth
brome-grass," and Mr.
George C. Baker, of ]\Iosca,

sayj

^'Brornus iiwrmis is
our best tame grass." It
is regarded as the most
promising of the introduced
grasses tried at the Colo-
rado experiment station.
The grass seems to have
been given less attention in Wyoming than in either Colorado or Mon-
tana. Mr. Griftiths, in his report for the past season, speaks of seeing
a plot of it on the ranch of JNIr. John Baugh, of Carlisle, Wyo. Ue says,

Fi(i. 6.— Smooth or Hungarian lirome-grass (Bromxis iner-
mil): a, Hi)ikclet; 6, tlowering filume seen from the back;
c, floret seeu from tlio anterior side, allowing palea.

33

<'Mr. Baugli has been experimentiug' two years, botli with and without
irrigation. He seems to think that the smooth brome-grass does not
thrive so well under irrigation. The effect of irrigation was really
quite peculiar. The irrigated portion of the plot was fresh and green
(middle of August) while the unirrigated portion, though it had made
a much better growth, was completely dried up. I am not certain but
that a thorough wetting at less frequent intervals would have produced
better results. He irrigates by means of a tank and windmill. The
water is conducted to the gar-
den by a pipe and the crop is
sprayed. All his garden truck
looked well. Cabbage and to-
matoes were especially fine."
In Colorado smooth brome has
done well under irrigation,
particularly when pastured.

In Montana smooth brome
has received considerable at-
tention, and reports regarding
it are very satisfactory indeed.
Hon. Paris Gibson, of Great
Falls, says, ''In the experi-
ments I have made with new
forage plants I find Bronius
inermis the most hardy. It
api)ears in the spring much
earlier than our native
grasses." Similar reports
were received from Messrs.
M. W. Jones and E. Vine, of
Miles City, and from Director
Emery of the State Experi-
ment Station. Judging from
these reports and from the
excellent results already ob-
tained in growing this grass
in Canada, as well as in the
Dakotas and other Northwest-
ern States, it seems probable that smooth brome will prove of great
value for cultivation on the dry lands of the iS^orthwest. It should
be given a thorough trial, especially as a grass for reseeding worn
meadows and pastures.

THE FESCUES.

About the only fescue that seems to have been tried to any extent is
meadow fescue {Festuca elatior ^yraten.sis), and this is only occasionally
seen in cultivation— usually in mixture with other grasses or with
20013— :No. 12 3

Fig. 7. — Sheep fescue {Fe.itnca ovinii).

34

clovers. Ou rich loamy soils, with abundant irrigation, it seems to do
quite well. Favorable reports have been received from several points
in central Colorado and central and southern Montana. Mr. Griffiths
found it doing well in northeastern Wyoming. It is frequently met
with along irrigating ditches and in public parks in the cities and
towns, often occurring in waste places as an escape and already well
established in favorable situations. It does not seem to thrive in soils
containing much alkali. At the Utah Station this grass has been grown
with fine success as an element in permanent pastures and meadows,
and it is altogether likely that it can be so used in many portions of
the Eocky Mountain region. Many native forms of both sheep fescue
{Festuca ovina) (fig. 7) and red fescue {Festuca rubra) occur in this
region, and although the cultivated varieties have been given little, if
any, attention, it is not unlikely that they could be used to advantage
in reseeding the ranges, particularly in the foothills and lower moun-
tains.

ORCHARD GRASS.
DactylU glomerata.

Like meadow fescue, tliis grass has received but little attention from
farmers and ranchmen in this region. It has been tried at the
experiment stations, sometimes with success and sometimes without.
It requires fairly rich soil and a reasonable amount of moisture, and
hence thrives best on irrigated lands of the valleys and benches. It
has succeeded quite well at the Utah station, and good reports of it
have been received from central and southern Montana and from nmny
parts of Colorado. It was seen on several ranches near Evanston,
Wyo.. the past season and was making a fine growth. Mr. \V. C. Burke,
of Las Animas, Colo., in an answer to the questicm as to what grasses
and forage plants do best in his locality, includes this grass, with the
statement that "when irrigated it produces about 2 tons of hay per
acre." It is deserving of more general cultivation as an element in
mixtures for permanent meadows and pastures and for seeding down
sparsely wooded areas.

ALFALFA.

By far the most important forage plant cultivated in this region at the
present time is alfalfa. Scarcely a farm or ranch under irrigation can
be found in the entire region without its alfalfa field, and on many of
the larger ranches hundreds of acres are devoted almost exclusively to
this crop. It flourishes on the l)ettcr drained valley lands and irrigated
bench lands in all parts of the region where the altitude is not too
great, and alfalfa liay constitutes the principal winter feed for many
thousand head of horses, sheep, and cattle. Of recent years it is being
extensively used in fattening sheep and cattle for market. There is
great need of a good su])plem('ntary forage to be fed along with the
alfalfa. It is so rich in muscle-making food elements that, as ordinarily

35

fed, its full value is not obtained, and ranclinien are beginning- to realize
the necessity of mixing it with corn fodder, sorghum, prairie liay, or
other forage containing an excess of fat forming elements in order to
feed in the most economical manner.

Three or more cuttings are obtained each season unless, as is often
the case, it is more desirable to pasture off" the later growth. This is
done when summer i)asturage is scarce or when there is no market for
the hay and the ranchman gets enough for his own use from the first
one or two cuttings. During the past season it was learned from sev-
eral ranchmen in the Big Horn Basin tliat they very seldom made more
than two cuttings, for the reason that they needed no more for wintering
their own stock and the price of the hay was so low that it paid them
better to pasture tlieir fields for a portion of the season. This was
in a region where the summer pasturage was short because of drought
and previous overstocking, though at the present time the number of
stock kept on the range is undoubtedly much below what the land
ought to support under a proper system of grazing and supplementary
feeding.

One of the things which makes alfolfa so valuable for this regiou is
its ability to thrive on land containing a considerable quantity of
alkali. There are few cultivated crops that will stand as much alkali
as this.

The injurious effects of too much water upon the growth of alfalfa is
well illustrated by the conditions at present prevailing in a number of
localities in Colorado, particularly in the southern i)art of the State.
The soil, either from natural causes or as a result of the methods of
irrigation practiced, has become saturated with water to witliin a short
distance of the surface. As a consequence the roots of the alfalfa rot
and the plants become sickly and finally die, rendering it impossible to
produce anything like a permanent meadow. Here in Colorado, as
well as in many other parts of this region, the best success is obtained
with alfalfa on the bencli lands. It is surprising what a small amount
of labor is required to obtain a good alfalfa meadow in some portions of
this region. For example, it is a common practice to give sage-brush
land no more plowing or other preparation than is necessary in taking
oft" the sago-brush. The brush is cut and grubbed out, raked up and
burned, and the seed sown directly on the unplowed land, covered and
watered. The soil is so loose as to require little or no stirring, and
water is the oidy thing necessary to make it produce abundant crops
of alfalfa. Of course more thorough preparation will give an evener
and more lasting meadow, but the writer has seen many fine alfalfa
meadows on land untouched by the plow except to make ditches for
distributing the water.

RED CLOVER.

Next to alfalfa, red clover is the most widely cultivated legiuninous
forage crop in this region. It seems to be more generally grown in

36

Montana than in either Colorado or Wyoming, and its cultivation is
chiefly confined to rich valleys and bench lands near the mountains
where there is a good supply of moisture or where irrigation is prac-
ticed. It is usually grown with timothy and other meadow grasses,
and is cut for hay or used as a soiling crop. Very fine crops are raised
in central and southwestern Montana and in northern and central Colo-
rado, and it is occasionally seen elsewhere in these States. Bed clover
is not generally grown in Wyoming, though it is being tried in many
localities with very fair success. During the past season it was
observed in successful cultivation in Crook, Johnson, Bighorn, and
Uinta counties.

ALSIKE.

Although less commonly grown than red clover, alsike is certainly a
valuable crop for many jjarts of tliis region. Many farmers who have
grown them side by side prefer the alsike to the red clover as a forage
crop for their respective localities. For example, Mr. C. C. Willis, of
Horse Plains, Mont., writes that he much i)refers alsike on account
of its heavier yield of forage and greater drought-enduring qualities.
Excellent fields of alsike and timothy were seen in 1890 in the Gallatin
Valley, and reports of the successful growing of this clover have been
received from various points in central and southwestern Montana,
northern Wyoming, and northern and central Colorado. As a general
thing the alsike seems to be hardier than red clover and is better
adapted for permanent meadows, and some maintain that it does better
on the heavy '' gumbo " soil found in so many i^laces in the Northwest.
It has also given good results in many parts of the Dakotas, where it
has received a thorough trial. It deserves more attention from farmers
and ranchmen in the Northwest generally.

WHITE CLOVER.

It is rarely that this clover is sown in this region excei)t on lawns
or in dooryards, but its ability to gain a foothold and maintain itself
among other vegetation is well shown in the fact that it is found
everywhere in patches of various sizes along the margins of irrigating
ditches, in waste places, and in pastures and meadows. Beports from
several counties in central and western Montana and central Colorado
indicate that it is occasionally sown in i)astures and is growing in favor,
more particularly for use in i)astures i'or sheep and dairy stock. In
extended trips through this region in both 1890 and 1897 the writer
found but very few instances of its having been sown ])urp()sely in pas-
tures, though it was often present even in native pastures in greater or
less quantities.

The excellent sliowing made by this clover during the season of 1897
was very notic«'able throughout the West and Northwest generally,
particularly in the older-settled districts. In eastern South Dakota,
northwestern Iowa, and eastern Nebraska this clover made a remark-

37

able development. Almost everywhere aloug roadsides, in waste places,
and in pastures could be seen the masses of white blossoms. Pastures
in which scarcely an appreciable amount of the clover had ever been
observed before were white with it. In many cases no clover seed has
ever been sown in the pastures, but it has gradually worked in from
accidental sources, and though the progress has undoubtedly been slow,
it has nevertheless been sure, and this clover has come to occupy a very
important place among the vegetation of the pastui es. The tendency
of white clover to develop in alternating periods of light and heavy
growth has often been observed in the past, and its appearance in such
quantity in the present instance is a good illustration of the changes
in the composition of pastures that are going on constantly, though
they are not always for the betterment of the pasture, as in this case.

MISCELLANEOUS FORAGE CROPS.

Aside from the preceding list of standard grasses and forage plants,
there are a number of crops of greater or less importance that are
grown in the various parts of the region. In most cases their cultiva-
tion is not general, sometimes because the plants are not well enough
known and sometimes because of their inability to thrive under the
conditions prevailing over a large part of the region.

In the dry portions of Colorado where irrigation is not practiced the
sorghums, both saccharine and nonsaccharine varieties, are grown to
some extent for winter forage and for soiling. The great drought-
enduring qualities of the sorghums and their ability to thrive on land
containing considerable alkali render them especially valuable for cer-
tain portions of this region. Mr. E. E. T. Hazen, of Phillips County,
Colo., reports good success in growing several of the nonsaccharine
varieties (yellow milo maize, brown doura, and Jerusalem corn), and
S. Keedham, of Prowers County, regards " sorghum as very valuable
for winter forage on nonirrigable lauds." Only the early maturing-
varieties like Early Amber are grown in Wyoming and Montana, and
these not to any great extent.

The common cereal crops, such as rye, oats, wheat, and barley, are often
grown for forage. Eye and oats are used for this purpose more often
than any others, although it is a common practice to cut any cereal for
hay if conditions are such that it is not likely to mature a crop of grain.
Eye is being very successfully grown for late and early pasturage in
many localities, and its cultivation is becoming more general each year.
It is already quite extensively grown in central Colorado, northern
Wyoming, and some parts of Montana. Sown in early autumn, it gets
the benefit of the rains and snows of fall, winter, and early spring, and
usually matures a fair croj) of grain in addition to furnishing much pas-
turage, when spring-sown crops would fail unless artificially watered.

Other crops that have been grown in some parts of the region with
success are field peas, rape, sand or hairy vetch, and esparcette. Par-

38

ticularly encouraging results are reported from central Colorado regrarcl-
ing the growing of field peas for forage, and the crop has done well in
many other parts of the region. Profitable crops of rape, vetch, and
esparcette are reported from Montana and elsewhere.

Millet is more gericrally grown for hay than any other annual. Com-
mon millet and Hungarian are usually preferred for the average
uplands. Broom corn millet is sometimes grown as a grain crop, but
yields too lightly for a hay crop where the better varieties can be grown.
As a general rule all the millets are used as '' catch crops " rather than
as regular crops, and as such they fill an important place in north-
western agriculture. They are most commonly grown in the northern
part of the region.

NATIVE GRASSES AND FORAGE PLANTS.

There are about 1*70 species and varieties of grasses known to be
indigenous to this region. Naturally a great majority of these are too
small or too rare to be of much importance in the production of hay or
pasturage. The most valuable species are quite widely distributed,
althougli occasionally a species of but local occurrence may be of con-
siderable importance in its particular locality, as is the case with some
of those occurring in the mountains.

The great economic importance of the native grasses is at once appar-
ent when one recalls the many thousands of sheep, cattle, horses, and
mules that are raised in this region, and that depend entirely upon
the native grasses and forage plants for subsistence for from eight to
twelve months of the year. That the quality of the forage aftbrded is
excellent is shown by the fact that most of the vast numbers of fat
cattle and sheep annually shipped to the Eastern markets from this
region receive no other food than that furnished by the natural mead-
ows and pastures of the ranges.

From the economic point of view the important native grasses of this
region may be classed into two groups, namely, meadow grasses and
pasture grasses. To be sure, no hard and fast line can be drawn, but as
a general thing the best pasture grasses are of little use for hay, and
within late years, at least, wherever good hay-producing grasses occur
in any great extent, they are fenced off from the open range and pre-
served for winter forage.

NATIVE MEADOW OE HAY GRASSES.
LOWLAND MEADOWS.

The grasses most abundant in the meadows at thelower altitudes are
usually quite different from those which i)red()raiiiate in the mountain
meadows, although it is seldom that any sharp line occurs where the
strictly mountain grasses begin and the lower valley grasses leave off.
The change is rather a gradual one. Hay meadows are almost entirely

39

confined to the valleys of the larger streams, the prairies and hilly
conutry being given over to grazing. Occasionally a rich plateau or
<' bench'' may be found with a sufficient sujiply of moisture to produce
a growth of grass luxuriant enough for hay, but these are rare. The
grasses of most importance in the meadows in the lower valleys are
wheat-grasses {Agropyron spp.), meadow-grasses {Poa spj).), manna-
grasses {I'anieularia spp.),
sand-grasses or blue-joints
{Calamagrostis spp.), and
wild rye- grasses {Elymus
spp.).

Of these the wheat- grasses
are by far the most valuable.
A great many species occur
in this region, but there are
three which are of special
importance as hay-producing
grasses. These are Western
wheat-grass {A[/ropyron spi-
catum), known also as Col-
orado blue-stem, slender
wheat- grass {Agropyron tene-
rum) (see fig. 8), and false
quack-grass {Agropyron
pseudorejien.s). These grasses
are very generally distrib-
uted over the region, and
grow naturally on a great
variety of soils. All respond
readily to cultivation. Usu-
ally all that is necessary to
convert a piece of good sage-
brush or valley land into a
wheat grass meadow is to
clear off the brush and large
stones, keep off the stock,
and water the land. The
grasses will soon take complete possession. On nearly every well-
kept ranch in the eastern Rocky Mountain region can be seen fine
natural meadows made in this manner. Western wheat-grass is usu-
ally more abundant than either of the other sorts, and it is not an
uncommon thing to see a meadow of 40, 80, or more acres composed
almost exclusively of this grass. Without irrigation it is rarely possi-
ble to cut more than one crop in two years, as the grass requires time
to recuperate. Even with irrigation it is seldom possible to obtain good
crops for many consecutive years without cutting up the sod to over-
come its "hidebound" condition and give opportunity for the growth

Fig. 8.— Slender wheat-grass (Aijropyron tenerum).

40

of new slioots. Under favorable conditions, however, these meadows
may yield good crops for a number of years with nothing more than
proper watering. Mr. Griftiths reports seeing a meadow of about 40
acres the past season, near Snoma, S. Dak., yielding a crop of about 2
tons of hay per acre, which had afforded a good croi) for five consecu-
tive seasons.

In the wet or boggy places in lowland meadows the wheat-grasses
are replaced principally by the meadow-grasses and, if the soil is sandy,

the sand-grasses or blue joints
are often present in considera-
ble quantity. Of these grasses
reed meadow- or manna-grass
[Panieularia americana) (see fig.
9) and nerved manna- grass (P.
nervata) are common in very
wet boggy places unless the soil
is too strongly impregnated
with alkali, when they are often
replaced by alkali meadow-grass
[PuccinelUa airoides). This last
grass is usually quite rigid and
wiry and grows in close bunches,
but furnishes considerable for-
age in some localities. Often
it is about the only grass to be
seen among the sedges and
rushes of the wet, alkali mead-
ows, and in such places it is
more succulent and i)ahitable
than when growing in drier sit-
uations. It is very abundant
in the overirrigated meadows
along the Little Laramie Kiver
in Wyoming, and is quite
widely distributed over the
Western plains and through-
out the valleys in altitudes be-
low 8,000 feet.
The true meadow-grasses {Poa si)p.) are of much more value gener-
ally than those just mentioned. These are most abundant in the moist
meadows near the foot of the mountains. Among the valuable kinds
are the indigenous forms of Kentucky blue grass (Poa pratcn.sis), the
"bunch-grasses" {Poa buvUeyawt, P. laerujata, and 7'. Incida), Wyom-
ing blue grass (P. wheeleri), bench-laud spear-grass (/'. (irida), wood-
land meadow-grass (P. nemoralis), 'Nevadd blue grass (/*. nevadensis).
and foMl meadow-grass or false redtop [P.Jlava). Many of these are
of as much importance, under present conditions, for pasturage as for

Fig. 9. — Keed meadow-grass (Vanicidaria atnericaiia) .

41

hay, but with a proper supply of water all afford good yields of excel-
lent Lay. In the valleys Kentucky blue grass, in either its native or
introduced form, is perhaps most commonly seen, and is becoming more
and more abundant as the country is settled up and the native meadows
brought under irrigation.

Of the "bunch-grass" Poas, P. hucMeyana (fig. 10) is apparently the
most widely distributed, being, if anything, more common on the dry
uplands than in the valleys, and hence x)erhaps more properly to be
regarded as a pasture grass.
However, under irrigation it be-
comes less densely tufted, the
leaves are broader and more
luxuriant, and the yield of hay is
good. Smooth bunch-grass (P.
Uevigata) and pale bunch-grass
(P. lucida) are more often found
in the lowlands and are excellent
meadow grasses. They are most
abundant in the middle Rocky
Mountain region.

Wyoming blue grass is often
found with Kentucky blue grass
in moist meadows and along
banks of streams, but it ascends
higher uj) the mountains, where
it is frequently abundant in open
pine and spruce woods, some-
times occurring in dry situations,
but generally where the soil is
well supplied with moisture. It
is especially abundant in parts
of Wyoming and central Mon-
tana, usually occurring at an al-
titude of from 0,000 to 8,000 or
9,000 feet, but sometimes ascend-
ing to 10,000 feet. In the rich
moist soil of "burnouts" in
pine and spruce woods it makes
a magnificent growth.

Bench-land spear-grass (see fig. 11) is quite generally distributed
throughout this region. It usually occurs in rather dry meadows,
often in patches of considerable extent, but never forming a close sod,
as does Kentucky blue grass. The forage is of i)oorer quality than that
furnished by the latter and the yield is lighter. However, the grass is
one of the earliest of the native species and thrives better on dry soil
than Kentucky blue grass. Under cultivation it would probably be
more valuable for pastures than for meadows.

a -J,

Fig. 10. — Buncli-grasis {Poa huckleyana)

42

There are few of the native meadow-grasses that grow naturally
under such a wide range of soil and climatic conditions as woodland
meadow-grass in its several varieties. It is common in Avoodlands
along the prairie streams, and follows up the valleys into the foothills
and mountains, where it becomes an important element in the moist
meadows. It also occurs on rocky hills and mountain sides, some of
its forms flourishing at an altitude of 10,000 feet, or even more, in Col-
orado. Some of the forms growing in the rich lowland meadows

approach fowl meadow-grass in size
and appearance, and afford a large
amount of excellent hay.

Nevada blue grass (fig. 12) is more
common on the west side of the Conti-
nental Divide than on the east, but it
is nevertheless sufficiently abundant
in the latter region to form an impor-
tant part of the vegetation in many of
the natural meadows. It occurs as
far east as the Pine Ridge of Nebraska
and the Black Hills of South Dakota,
but is most abundant in the valleys
among the foothills and mountains.
Some forms of it grow on rather dry
soil in open woodlands and on rocky
mountain sides. It prefers rich soil
with a medium supply of moisture and
does well under irrigation. Under
favorable conditions it makes an ex-
cellent growth of leaves, and yields
a large amount of hay compared with
most of the native species of Foa. It
is rarely found above an altitude of
8,000 or 9,000 feet in this region.

Fowl meadow-grass is not as abun-
dant in the immediate vicinity of
the mountains as it is farther to the
eastward, but nevertheless is found
quite plentifully in certain localities. It occurs most frequently along
streams about the edges of thickets, and on moist banks and bottom
lands subject to overflow in the early i)art of the season. For such
places it is a valuable grass, making a good yield under conditions
that would "drown out" most of the common grasses. It is much
more valuable for hay than for pasturage. In some localities this grass
is called false redtop.

The sand-grasses or blue joints found in the meadows are remarkable
for their abundance of long root-leaves and the consequent large yield

\

Fig. 11.— Beiicli-land spcargrass {I'oa arida).

43

of hay, which is usually of an excellent quality. One of the most
widely distributed species is the common blue joint {Calamagrostis
canadensis), locally known as false or native redtop. This grass is
often very abundant in moist, sandy river bottoms, and some of its
many forms ascend well uj) into the mountains. It has been cultivated
with good success and is worthy of extended trial in the Northwest.

Sand-grass or yellow-top [Calamagrostis americana) is also well dis-
tributed throughout this region.
It is most commonly found along
the sandy banks of streams,
ponds, and lakes, often (espe-
cially along sloughs) forming a
well-defined "yellow-top" zone
of vegetation, noticeable from a
considerable distance because of
the characteristic color of the
grass. It seems to thrive better
in alkali soils than its relatives,
and is generally confined to com-
paratively low altitudes.

Big sand-grass {Calamovilfa
loufjifolia), altliough common on
the plains and in the valleys
throughout, is not so valuable
as the preceding species because
of the very coarse and fibrous
nature of the forage which it
produces. It is most commonly
found in dry, sandy swales and
on sandy hillsides, and in the
bad lands and other dry dis-
tricts, where the better grasses
are scarce, it is often plentiful.
In such localities it is regarded
as a valuable grass, and is used
for hay.

There are several of the wild
rye-grasses that occur in suffi-
cient quantities to be of importance in the vegetation of the native mead-
ows. All are most abundant as a rule in rich, open, rather dry meadows
and on hillsides, and are rather coarse, harsh plants, affording ctmsider-
able hay of an average quality. The kinds of most importance are
common wild-rye {Elymus canadensis), Macoun's rye-grass [U. macounii),
and giant rye-grass (jE. condensatus). The first of these is the most gen-
erally distributed, and is probably the most valuable, although the
second, which is also quite common, is a finer grass and produces a
better <iuality of hay.

Fig. 12.— Nevada blue grass {Poa nevadensis).

44

Giant rye-grass is a tall, coarse species, growing in large clumps,
found in sandy or gravelly soil of meadows and hillsides. It is too
harsh and woody to be relished by stock, and is seldom eaten except
when young, or in winter, when other forage is scarce or when the snow
is deep. Owing to its habit of growing in such dense bunches it is
difficult to cut for hay. However, when better grasses are scarce it is
fre(iuently cut early, and the hay is said to be of fair quality. When
a meadow becomes thickly seeded to this grass and is cut or burned
closely for several seasons a fairly even sod is produced, and such a
meadow is of considerable value, particularly when, as is usually the
case, the be.tter grasses can not be grown because of adverse soil or
climatic conditions. Such meadows are much more common on the
west side of the Continental Divide than on the east. During the sum-
mer of 1896 a number of such meadows were seen in southwestern
Montana and eastern Idaho, and in 1897 several were seen in north-
western Wyoming, This grass usually ripens a large amount of seed,
and stock gets a great deal of nonrisliment by eating the seed-heads in
fall and winter. Horses are said to be particularly fond of them.

On the eastern edge of this region Virginian lyme-grass {Elymus vir-
giniciis) is quite common in some localities, but is more valuable for
early pasturage than for hay.

Among other native grasses that may be mentioned as of value in
native meadows, but which only occasionally occupy any prominent
place in them, are bearded wheat-grass (Af/rajn/ron rivhard.soni), in
rather dry meadows; the cord grasses {Spartina cynosuroliles and 8.
gracilis)^ in sloughs and low places, the latter in alkali situations, par-
ticularly; slough-grass or wild timotliy {Beckmannia erucaformis),
along sloughs and irrigation ditches and in wet meadows, becoming
very abundant in many parts of the region; and reed canary-grass
{PhcUaris arundinacea), abnmhmt in places, and particularly valuable in
wet meadow lands and sloughs,

MOUNTAIN MEADOWS.

The mountain meadows, so numerous in portions of this region, differ
considerably in tiie composition of their vegetation from those of the
lower valleys and plains discussed in the previous pages. Here th^ true
meadow-grasses form the predominating element, replacing the wheat-
grasses of the lower jneadows; the brome-grasses {Bromus spp.), seldom
seen at the lower altitudes, are here abundant; the tussoclc-grasses
{DeHchampsUi spp.) are plentiful everywhere in wet, boggy situations;
and the blue joints {Calamagrostis spp.), alpine timotliy {Phleum alpi-
num), mountain foxtail {AJopecurus occiclenfaHs), the wild oat-grasses
{Danthonia spp.), rough-leafed bent {Agrostis asperifolia), and red fes-
cue [Festuca rubra) are all valuable members of the vegetation of these
meadows.

Of the blue grasses (/'oa spp.) several of those mentioned in tlie lore-
going discussion are common in the mountain meadows, namely, Wyo-

45

mnig" blue grass (see fig. 13), smooth buuch-grass, Nevada blue grass, and
woodland meadow-grass. In the higher altitudes alpine blue grass
{]'<>a alpina) and mountain meadow-grass {Foa leptocoma) are the pre-
dominating species. An interesting thiug in connection with the dis-
tribution of these two grasses was observed in northern Wyoming the
I)ast season. In the Bear Lodge range, in northeastern Wyoming,
alpine blue grass was frequently met, and it was also very abundant in
the mountains at the head of
Meeteetse Creek in the north-
western part of the State, but
extended search failed to re-
veal any of this grass in the
Big Horn Mountains in the
north central part of the State
and nearly midway between
the other two localities.
Mountain meadow-grass was '
very abundant in the Big Horn
Mountains, and was also found
in the mountains at the head
of Meeteetse Creek, but was
not seen in the northeastern
part of the State. Alpine
blue grass is most abundant
in sandy or gravelly soil
near the streams, and moun-
tain meadow-grass j) r e f e r s
cold, wet, boggy meadows and
mountain sides.

Alpine timothy is very wide-
ly distributed at the higher
elevations in the Eocky Moun-
tain region. It is qui^e abun-
dant in the Black Hills above
6,000 feet. In the Big Horn
Mountains it vies with tus-
sock-grass for first j)lace in
many of the meadows at 7,000
to 8,000 feet, particularly on the western side of the range, where
it is much more abundant than on the eastern slope. In central
Montana it is most plentiful at and above 6,500 feet, rarely occur-
ring below 6,000 feet, the ordinary limit for common timothy. It is
rarely found below 9,000 feet in Colorado, except, perhaps, in the
northern part of the State, but is plentiful up to 13,000 feet. Hay
made from this grass is highly prized by ranchmen, especially for
horses.

Fig. 13. — Wyoming blue grass (Poa wheeleri).

46

Mountain foxtail (fig. 14), which is also sometimes called mouutain
timothy, has much the appearance of true mountain or alpine timothy,
but is usually more robust and of a softer texture and produces a
better looking hay, much like that from the cultivated meadow foxtail
{Alojyecnrus 2)rattnsis), which this grass resembles in habit of growth.
Although found throughout the Rocky Mountain region, and having
similar altitudiual limits, it is much less common as a rule than alpine
timothy. It is abundant in the rich, moist meadows of the Spanish

Basin and elsewhere in south-
western Montana, and makes a
remarkably luxuriant growth,
frequently reaching a height of
three or four feet, and is one
of the most promising of the
native grasses for cultiyation in
meadows at the higher altitudes.
' Several of the native brome-
grasses are of great value in the
native meadows at an altitude
of from 5,000 to 8,000 feet in
Wyoming and Montana and
from 0,000 to 9,500 in Colorado.
The most valuable of these
brome- grasses are short-awned
brome [Bromus breviaristatus)
(see fig. 15) and Western brome
{Bromus pumpellianns). Both
are coarse- growing perennials
and occur throughout the Kocky
Mountain region, chiefly in the
rather dry valleys and "i^arks;'^
the former selecting the moister
situations and the latter the
drier ones. Although they are
often found growing together,
Western brome- grass seems to
have a somewliat higher alti-
tudiual limit, its point of best development usually ranging from
500 to 1,000 feet above that of short-awned brome. The latter is
occasionally abundant down as low as 4,000 feet in central Montana,
while the former is but rarely found at that altitude. In northern
Wyoming short-awned brume is most abundant at from 5,000 to
7,000 feet and Western brome at from 0,000 to 8,000. Both of these
grasses have been cultivated in some parts of the Northwest with suc-
cess and promise to be valuable for meadows at high altitudes. West-
ern brome has very much the same appearance and habit of growth as

Fio. 14.— Mountaiu Foxtail (Alopecurus occidentalis) .

47

the recently introduced smooth or Hungarian brome which is being
grown with such excellent success in the semiarid West and Northwest.

Tussock-grass [Deschampsia avsintosa) is perhaps the most abundant
and widely distributed grass in the native meadows of the Eocky
Mountain region. It has a very wide altitudinal range. For example,
it is abundant in wet meadows in the Gallatin Valley about Bozeman,
Mont., at an altitude of about
4,000 feet, and ascends to
above the timber line in the
mountains on either side of
the valley. On account of
its tufted habit of growth it
does not form an even sod,
and hence does not make a
good meadow by itself In
most instances, however, it
is accompanied by other
grasses, such as the true
meadow-grasses, redtop and
blue joint, which fill in the
spaces between the tufts,
making a fairly good meadow
sod. Some observers have
reported this grass as of no
practical value for either hay
or pasturage, but such state-
ments are not borne out by
the reports of our field agents
nor by the opinions advanced
by the ranchers.

While neither the yield nor
the quality of the forage is
equal to that obtained from
timothy or redtop, there can
be no doubt that the grass

fills an important place Fig. is.— Short-awned Brome-grasa (Bromus hreviaris-

among the native meadow faf-^>:«,tbe floret seen from the side; 6, palea.c,

^ . joint of tbe racliilla; d, gram; e, lower portion of pis-

and pasture grasses of this til, showing lodioules;/, young seed or grain.

region. It flourishes in wet,

boggy places where many of the better grasses can not grow, and by
its dense tufts of tough fibrous roots helps to convert these bogs into
usable meadow lands. Moreover, continued mowing and pasturing have
the eflect of reducing these tufts materially, so that with a few other
grasses to act as fillers a comparatively even sod is produced. Such
a condition of things may be seen in many of the mountain valleys,
as, for example, in the valley of the Little Laramie River near Sheep

48

Mountain. In the varieties of tussock-grass growing in the higher
altitudes the leaves become considerably reduced, and, of course, pro-
duce little forage of any sort, but the varieties growing in the meadows
at from 4,000 to 6,500 feet develop a much greater leafage and aftbrd a
large amount of hay and pasturage.

A form of red fescue is not uncommon in the moist meadows at from
4,000 to 9,000 feet altitude in the northern part of the Kocky Mountain
region, and is of much value for hay in some localities. It seldom

forms tufts of any size, spreads by
means of very slender underground
stems, and is usually found mixed
with other grasses. It is quite abun-
dant in the Spanish Basin and else-
where in southwestern Montana, and
also in the Big Horn and Shoshone
mountains in Wyoming.

Eough-leafed bent occurs natur-
ally in wet, boggy meadows and
along banks of streams and ditches.
The best hay-producing forms occur
at elevations of from 4,000 to 0,000,
or occasionally 7,000, feet. This
grass produces an abundant leafage,
much more than the common redtop,
and also produces a large amount
of seed — two things very desirable
in a grass for cultivation. In the
wild state it seems to be even more
hardy than redtop, and while flour-
ishing best with plenty of water it
will, nevertheless, endure consider-
able drought when once iirnily es-
tablished. It is quite an important
element in the native meadows in portions of northern Wyoming and
central and southern Montana, and is perhai)s more common on the
west side of the Continental Divide than on the east. As ordinarily
seen in the natural condition, rough-leafed bent has a closely tufted
habit of growth, but when thicl^ly seeded, as when in cultivation or
occasionally in native meadows when conditions are favorable, this
habit is largely lost, and a fairly even sod is formed. Its good quali-
ties as a meadow grass commend it to those experimenting with our
native species. It will doubtless be found to be better adapted for
meadows at higher altitudes than most of the common so-called tame
grasses.

There are several of the oat-grasses found in greater or less abun-
dance in the meadows and "parks" of the mountains and foothills of

FiQ. 16.— Kocky Mountain oat-grass (Dantho-
nia intermedia).

49

this region. The most important are Californian oat grass {Danthonia
californica), Eocky Moimtaiu oat-grass [Danthonia intermedia) (see fig.
16), and Parry's oat-grass {Danthonia parryi).

As a rule these oat grasses occur naturally in rather dry meadows
and on mountain sides, Californian oat-grass being more inclined to
seek moist situations than either of the others. It is the largest of the
native oat-grasses, reaching a height of 3 feet under favorable condi-
tions, and is also the most abundant Northwestern s])ecies. In northern
Wyoming and Montana it forms a considerable portion of the meadow
vegetation at from 5,500 to 8,000 feet. It is occasionally found as low
as 5,000 feet, but is most abundant at from 6,000 to 7,000 feet. On
rich, irrigated meadows it makes a very fine growth. It is rarely
found as far south as Colorado, where it is replaced by Parry's oat- grass.

Eocky Mountain oat grass is often found growing along with Califor-
nian oat-grass; but it is a smaller plant, preferring rather drier soil
and having a somewhat higher altitudinal range — seldom occurring
below 7,000 feet, abundant at 8,000 to 10,000 feet, and ascending to
11,000 feet or even 12,500 feet in Colorado. It is probably of more
value for pasturage than for hay.

Parry's oat-grass is most abundant in the park region of Colorado,
but also occurs in southern Wyoming. Although occurring naturally
in rather dry meadows and on mountain sides, it makes a fine growth
under irrigation and is occasionally found in some quantity in timothy
meadows. It has a much more tufted habit of growth than Californian
oat-grass and its altitudinal range — from 7,000 to 10,000 feet — corre-
si)onds very well to that of its more northern relative. Although of local
occurrence it is abundant in places, soujetimes almost completely occu-
pying the open woods and parks in the mountains of central Colorado.

The blue joints are usually conspicuous elements in the vegetation of
the moister mountain meadows. They are the chief grasses in many
of the deer parks in the higher mountains, and are ijarticularly abun-
dant in the wet, boggy, open aspen thickets so frequently found in the
Northwest, There are about a half-dozen species which are found in
sufficient quantities to be of importance as forage producers. By far
the most abundant is mountain blue-joint {Calamaf/rostis canadensis
acuminata), a near relative of the common blue joint, which it replaces
in the higher altitudes. It produces a large amount of excellent hay
in the wet, sandy or gravelly valleys along the mountain streams, and
usually occurs at an altitude of from 5,000 to 8,000 feet in the North,
but ascends to 10,000 or rarely to 11,000 feet in Colorado. In northern
Wyoming and central and southern Montana it makes an enormous
development in the rich, moist soil of some of the mountain parks,
frequently covering areas several acres in extent with a dense growth,
reaching a height of 3^ or 4 feet.

Northern blue joint or Langsdorff's reed-bent {Galamagrostis lanc/s-
dorffii) is often found growing along with mountain blue joint and has a
20013— No. 12 1

50

similar range, but is much less abundant antt Las rather higher alti-
tudinal limits. In localities where it is plentiful it is highly prized by
stockmen, by whom it is often called " purpletop" on account of the
l^revailing color of the inflorescence. It is much more common to the
northward, being but rarely found as far south as Colorado, and then
only in the higher mountains.

Other blue joints deserving special mention are Scribuer's blue joint
{CaJamagrostis serihneri) and Suksdorf's blue-joint [G. sulsdorfii).
Both are northern in distribution, the latter being found in this region
only in central and western Montana and most abundant west of the
Continental Divide, and tbe former reaching down into central or rarely
into southern Wyoming and Colorado. Both have an altitudinal range
of about 3,000 feet, seldom occurring below 5,000 feet or above 8,000
feet in Wyoming and Montana. Suksdorf's blue joint, although reach-
ing its best development in the moist land of the valleys, is often found
on the drier ridges and mountain sides.

NATIVE PASTURE GRASSES.

Naturally much the greater portion of the grass land is used for
grazing. At the present time nearly all the land not under irrigation
is used for this purpose. This includes by far the larger part of the
upland prairies, the bad lands, tbe broken foothill country, and the
accessible mountainous country.

Some of these pasture lands, notably those in the mountains and
higher foothills, can be used during only a portion of the year, but the
remainder are grazed through the entire year. In some localities cer-
tain portions of the range are protected during the growing season in
order that the grass may make a good growth and furnish forage for
fall aiul winter grazing. Sometimes the stock is kept from these areas
by fencing, but often the ranchmen, by common consent, keej) the
stock on other ranges during the summer, and bring it to the protected
areas only when forced to do so by the approach of severe winter
weather. In localities where the meadow lands and winter pastures
are fenced in, the open range is usually in very bad condition. Every
ranchman is eager to get his " share" of the oi)en and free range, and
naturally turns out all his stock during the summer. As a result,
the grasses and better forage plants are eaten up or trampled into
the ground before the end of the season. What wonder that the
grasses are dying out on the o])en range! The wonder is that they
have survived as long as they have. During the past season, while
making wagon trips through the Belle Fourche and Big Horn Basin
countiies, it was often necessary to drive many miles in order to find
sul'licient ])asturage for the team. All tlie grass lands not under fence
"were ] ticked bare in July and August, and it was imi)ossible to get
feed along the trail except by obtaining permission of the ranchers to
cami) inside the inclosures. Of course the grasses are l)eing pre-

51

served witbin the fenced areas, but these comi)ose but a relatively-
small part of the total pasture lands, and the get all-you-can system is
rapidly and certainly ruining the ojien range. In jjarts of the range
region the scarcity of stock during the past few years, together with a
few favorable growing seasons, has allowed the grasses to recuperate
somewhat, but already the stockmen are beginning to increase their
herds in order to be able to take advantage of the anticipated rise in
prices of beef cattle, mutton, and wool, and there is danger that those
lauds not already overstocked will soon be so unless something can be
done to convince these stockmen of the shortsightedness of such a
policy.

In the higher foothills and mountains the pasturage is generally in
good condition — much better than on the prairies. There are two prin-
cipal leasoiis for this. In the first place, there is usually a good supply
of moisture, and in the second place, the lands can be grazed during
only a portion of the year on account of the heavy snowfall. xVs the
lands can be grazed for but four or five months of the year at the out-
side, there is a long j^eriod during the early part of the season when
the grasses make a considerable growth, so that they are already well
along in the vseason's development, sometimes maturing seed, before
grazing begins.

GRASSES OF THE PLAINS.

Out on the open ranges of the plains, however, there are few locali-
ties in which the pasturage is anything like as good as in former years.
Leading stockmen from nearly all parts of the plains region estimate
that the stock-carrying capacity of the pasture lands has been reduced
on the average from 40 to 50 per cent in the last ten or fifteen years.
The real reason for this is overstocking. The real stock-carrying
capacity of a given area of pasture lands is the amount of stock that
can safely be grazed on it during a dry or unfavorable season; and if
these lands are to be kept in proper condition this limit should never
be exceeded except perhaps temjDorarily during particularly favorable
seasons; and the number of stock should be reduced as soon as it is
seen that the grasses are being grazed too closely. Under the i)resent
system, or rather lack of system, of controlling the open grazing lands,
it is hardly to be expected that the ranchman will do otherwise than to
continue to try to get his " share" of the forage on the open range, and
in so doing will continue to add to its already overburdened condition.

There are many thousands of acres of the imblic lands in this region
that are of more value for grazing than for any other purpose, and in
view of their importance and of the great danger of permanent injury
resulting from the present methods of grazing it would seem urgent that
some rational system of controlling them should be devised and adopted
at once.

All the native grasses are grazed by stock to a greater or less extent,
but many kinds are too small to afford much forage; others are too

52

coarse and woody, or otherwise unpalatable, to be of much value; and
still others, while affording nutritious forage, are of most value for hay,
and have been considered in the preceding pages of this report under
the discussion of the native meadow-grasses.

The principal i^asture grasses of the dry plains region are the gramas
{Bovtelono spp.), buffalo-grass {BulhiUs dacti/loides), wheat grasses,
already discussed under meadow-grasses, prairie June-grass [Koeleria

cristata), and needle-grasses
{8ti2)a spp.). Other grasses of
considerable value for graz-
ing, but of more or less local
distribution, are Indian millet
{Eriocoma cnspklata), rush-
grasses {Sporobolus spp.),
Montana sand-grass (Ca/awta-
grostis moutancnsis), salt-
grass {Di-siicJiUs siylcata), and
several of the bunch-grasses
and wild ryes already men-
tioned.

There are three gramas
found in this region, and all
are valuable pasture grasses.
The best, and by far the most
abundant, is blue grama
{B o ntelo u a oligosf<(clii/a).
(See tig. 17.) It is one of the
most generally distributed
grasses of tlie prairies, and
also occurs in considerable
(quantities on the higher
bench lands and mesas, in
the foothills, and in dry soil
here and there in the lower
mountain valleys. Every-
where it is regarded as an
exceedingly valuable grass
for both summer and winter
pasturage, but i)arti('nlai'ly
for the latter, vying with buffalo-grass for lirst place. At the ])resent
time it is probably of greater actual vahie on account of its more general
occurrence, greater yield of forage, and greater ability to hold possession
of the soil under excessive pastnringand extremedrought. In therather
loose, sandy soil, so common to the prairies of this regicm, blue grama
forms closely sodded areasofvarying extent which, on accountofthe ])ur-
plish color of the foliage, stand out in strong contrast to the prevailing

Fig. 37. — Bine grama {Boutelona oligostachya) : a, empty
glunu-s of a spikclct ; 0, spikelet with the empty glumes
removed.

53

pale color of the remaining grass vegetation. Often these areas may be
found alternating with similar areas of the much paler buffalo-grass, and
the checkerboard appearance thus given to the prairie is peculiarly strik-
ing. Although primarily a pasture grass, blue grama, under favorable
conditions of soil and moisture, makes a fine growth of leafage suffi-
cient to afford a good yield of hay of a very flue quality. Under ordi-
nary conditions, however, this grass cures so well on the ground that
stockmen prefer to use it for
winter pasturage rather
than go to the trouble of
putting up the hay.

Black grama [Bouteloua
hirsuta) is much more local
in distribution than blue
grama, to which it is very
similar in ax)pearance and
habit of growth. It is con-
fined largely to rather lim-
ited areas on sandy or grav-
elly knolls and hillsides, and
is valuable chiefly because
it thrives in these poor soils,
furnishing considerable psis-
turage where but few other
grasses can do more than
simply exist.

The third grama found in
this region that deserves
special mention is tall or
side-oats grama (Bouteloua
curtipendula). (See flg. 18.)
It is a larger grass than
either of the foregoing, and,
while occurring throughout,
is more abundant in the rich
prairie soil of the eastern
portion of tlie region. It
produces a fine growth of
long, slender leaves and on good soil makes a good yield of hay. In
Nebraska and the Dakotas, where this grass is very abundant, it is
regarded as of more vahie for hay than for pasturage, as it yields well,
and the tough, rather harsh leaves are more readily eaten by stock as
hay than wlieu in the fresh state. In the principal range region, how-
ever, the grass is seldom present in the meadows in much quantity, and
on the drier soils the growth is not sufficient for hay; but it cures well
on the ground and is readily eaten by range stock which are more
accustomed to feeding on harsh herbage.

Fig. 18.— Tall or side-oats grama {Bouteloua curtipendula):
a, one of the short spikes; b, a spikelet; c, a splkelet
with the outer empty glumes removed.

54

There is no other orass which has a reputation for excellence for both
summer and winter pasturage equal to that of buffalo- grass. However,
not all of the praise bestowed upon this grass really belongs to it, for
the gramas are often confused with it, and to them, particularly to blue
grama, belongs much of the credit given to buffalo-grass in many parts
of the range region. In the minds of many ranchmen "buffalo-grass"
includes blue grama and black grama as well as the true buffalo-grass
{Bidbilis dactyloides), while in the minds of others grama or " gram-
mer," as it is often pronounced, includes all three.

However, there is no doubt of the great value of the true buffalo-
grass for pasturage. That it is one of the most palatable of native
grasses is shown by the fact that, with plenty of other grasses on every
hand, stock will keep it eaten close to the ground, and this is probably
the reason that it is one of the first grasses to be killed out in over-
stocked ranges. It is reported to have practically disappeared from
many places where it was formerly one of the commonest species, but
while this is no doubt true of some localities, it is certainly not true of
all. Examination has shown that it is still quite abundant in some of
these localities, but is easily overlooked, as it is kept grazed so closely
that it is seldom able to make enough development to show its charac-
teristic habit of growth, much less to bloom and mature seed.

The wheat-grasses usually furnish a larger percentage of the pastur-
age on the prairies than is generally supposed. Tlie most valuable
varieties for grazing are provided with underground stems or root-
stocks, which run along a short distance below the surface and at fre-
quent intervals send up erect branches, either bearing only tufts of
leaves or more rarely producing "heads." When too closely grazed, or
during unfavorable seasons, much of the growth of the plant is made by
these underground stems and very few, if any, fertile branches are devel-
oped. On this account many people have an idea that these grasses
grow only once in every two or three years, when as a matter of fact the
actual yield of forage may be almost as much for an "off" year as for
any other. Although regarded primarily as meadow or hay grasses,
the wheat-grasses furnish a large part of the pasturage throughout the
entire range region, and on the more strongly alkaline soils are otten the
only grasses of any value to be found at all.

The needle-grasses {^tipa spp.) are among the most conspicuous
members of the grass vegetation of the plains and lower mountains and
foothills. All produce a relatively large amount of leafage, which makes
an excellent quality of forage. During the late summer, when the seed
is maturing, some of the needle-grasses cause much trouble and often
severe in.jnry to stock, ])articularly to sheep, as the sharp-pointed
needles or "spears" work into the llesh of the animals, making painful
sores and sometimes causing the death of the animal, in some of the
best forage-producing species the "spears" are very blunt, and hence
do little or no damage. Where the range is kept closely grazed the

55

plants seldom seed in sufficient quantity to be troublesome. As soon
as the seed ripens the " spears'" fall and work into the soil, so that these
grasses can be used for hay or late grazing.

The common needle-grass {Stipa comata) of this region is valuable for
both hay and pasturage. On poor rocky or gravelly soils, where it is
one of the characteristic species (see tig. 19), it affords a large amount
of pasturage, and on the rich prairie soils it makes a good yield of hay
which is considered by many ranchmen to be equal in quality to "blue-
stem" or wheat-grass hay. Here in the range region it takes the place
of porcupine-grass {Stipa spartea), so abundant in the Lower Missouri
Valley region, but which only occurs in any considerable quantity along

Fig. 19.— a bit of the "range" in N. E. Wyoming. (Photographed by David Griffiths.)

the eastern limits of the range. In some parts of the range, as for
examx)le in some localities of central and northern Wyoming, the com-
mon needle-grass sometimes composes the entire grass vegetation of
the sage-brush prairies.

Another of the needle-grasses common in some of its many forms in
this region is that most commonly known as feather bunch-grass {Siipa
viridula). This is usually found in rather dry sandy soil, and forms
dense tufted masses of leaves and stems, which afford good grazing.
On account of its very blunt-pointed "spears" it seldom does any dam-
age to stock and, as it endures close feeding well, it is one of the most
desirable of the needle-grasses for grazing. Because of its densely
tufted habit of growth and less luxuriant production of root leaves it is

56

of less value for liay than common needle-grass. Nelson's needle-grass
{Stipa nelsoni) and purple-top needle-grass {Stipa minor) are also of
value for pasturage, but both belong more properly, perhaps, to the
higher altitudes. On the Big Horn ranges, at about 8,000 feet altitude,

purple-top needle- grass is an
important pasture grass and
is also frequently cut for hay.
Sleepy- grass {Stipa vaseyi)
is quite abundant in the south-
ern part of the eastern Rocky
Mountain region. It takes its
common name from the fact
that in some localities it is
thought to have a narcotic
effect upon stock eating it. It
is a coarse-growing grass, and
the forage could hardly be very
palatable in any event. How-
ever, in times of scarcity of
pasturage it is quite closely
grazed, in central Colorado at
least, but whether with any ill
effects has not been detinitely
ascertained. It is possible
that the narcotic principle is
not everywhere produced in
'/j^ injurious quantities.

One of the best early pas-
ture grasses on the range is
prairie June-grass {Koeleria
cristata). (See fig. 20.) It is
widely distributed, ti(mrishes
on a variety of soils, and is
one of the earliest grasses to
afford pasturage on the prai-
ries. It has a tufted habit of
growth and seldom exceeds a foot in height on the dry prairies, but in
moist, valleys it fre(iuently reaches 2 feet or more and affords an excel-
lent (piality of hay. It nuitures its seed early and then dries up, fur-
nishing l)ut little fresh pasturage afterwards unless well watered. It
usually seeds heavily. Stockmen regard it as one of the most valuable
native pasture, grasses because of its earliness and palatability. To
many it is known as wild or prairie timothy, because of its external
resemblance to the comnion cultivated timothy.

One of the most common and valuable "bunch-grasses" on the plains
is Poa buvklcyana. It is most abundant on the high elevated plains and

ri

Fig. 20.— Prairie June-grass {Koeleria cristala) : a.
empty gluiin's; b, tlie two Horets raised above the
empty glumes.

57

bench lands nearer the mountains, and is usually accompanied by-
prairie June grass, blue grama, and some of the wheat-grasses. It
is not as early as prairie June-grass, but affords a larger amount of
forage and is much better for winter pasturage. It has a very wide
distribution in the Rocky Mountain region and is represented by
a great variety of forms, some of which, as already mentioned in
another connection, are valu-
able hay producers.

In poor sandy soil, or in that
containing a large percentage
of alkali, the rush -grasses
{Sporobolus spp.) are impor-
tant pasture grasses. They
are all rather harsh and un-
palatable and are valuable
chiefly because they thrive in
soil that will produce none of
the better grasses. When for-
age is plentiful, stock will not
eat them to any great extent,
and the plants soon become
tough and woody, but during
seasons of scarcity these grasses
are, like others, kept closely
grazed throughout the season
and are tenderer and more
palatable. During the past
season a number of extensive
pastures were observed in the
Big Horn Basin composed
almost exclusively of fine-top
rush-grass or salt-grass {Sporo-
bolus airoides). (See fig. 21.)
These pastures were in alkali
bottoms and old lake beds, and
were almost the only grass-
covered areas of any consequence in that locality. They were grazed
by horses principally, and were reported to be improving with con-
tinual pasturing. This grass is most abundant in the southern portion
of the region, though occurring throughout.

Among other rush-grasses of general occurrence in this region are
rough-leafed salt-grass {Sporobolus asj)erifolius), a characteristic "bad-
land " grass; sand rush grass {S. cryptandrus), often abundant in sandy
prairies and river bottoms; and prairie rush-grass {S. depauperatus).
There are two forms of the last occurring in this region; one found
chiefly in dry soil of prairies and hillsides, too small to be of much value

Fig. 21.— Fine-top salt-grass (Sporobolut airoides).

58

for forag^e, and the other in moist, more or less alkaline bottom land,
tall and slender and producing a greater amount of forage.

Another grass abundant throughout this region in strongly alkaline
soils, but of little value except in times of scarcity of forage, is the
common salt- or alkali-grass (7)i.s/(W<7/s.s;2?w'a<rt). (See fig. 22.) Although
often i>roducing a great deal of leafage, it is harsh and unjialatable and
is refused by stock as long as other grasses are to be obtained. Sheep

eat it more readily than other
stock. It is abundant in the
bad- land regions, and, as better
grasses are usually scarce there,
it is sometimes cut for hay. In
localities where the land is be-
coming "alkalied " through im-
proper irrigation, this grass is
spreading rapidly and often be-
comes quite a pest.

Montana sand-grass {Cala-
magrostis montanensis) is the
only representative of this
genus that is of much impor-
tance as a pasture grass on the
dry prairies and foothills. Its
distribution is rather local, but
where it does occur in any
quantity it is a valuable grass.
It thrives on sterile, sandy
prairies and hillsides and
produces a large amount of
leaves. It cures well on the
ground, and hence affords good
winter pasturage. It has not
been reported south of the
Big Horn Basin, in Wyoming,
where it was found the past
season in considerable abund-
ance, particularly along the
Gray Bull Iliver, on the west side of tlie basin. It was first observed
in quantity at about 5,000 feet altitude, growing on dry, sandy tlats and
bluffs, continued plentiful up to about 7,000 feet and then gradually
became less and less common, disappearing entirely at 8,000 feet.

GKASSES OF THE I'GOTHILLS AND MOINTAINS.

Tlie grasses of the lower foothills differ but little from those of the
plains. The sod-forming species become more confined to the valleys
and the "bunch" grasses become more and more conspicuous <m the
blutts and hillsides. As the higher foothills and mountains are

Fig. 22.— Salt-graas ( Distichliii spicata) .

59

approacberl, however, changes in the grass flora become apparent.
The gramas and wheat-grasses of the plains are replaced by "bmich-
grasses" of various kinds, sheep fescue {Festuca oi'ina), and mountain
wheat-grass [Agropyron violaceum)', brome-grasses become more abun-
dant: the common needle-grass, porcuijiue-grass and feather bunch-
grass give way to Tweedy's needle-grass {Stipa tweedy i), IS^elson's
needle-grass {8. nelsoni), and
purple-top needle-grass {S.
minor); wild oat-grasses,
meadow or spear- grasses, and
tussock- grass become plenti-
ful; and mountain blue joint
takes the place of common
blue joint and yellow-top.

In the dry soils of the
higher foothills and moun-
tains the most important pas-
ture grasses are the "bunch
grasses" and the oat-grasses.
The former term is a very gen-
eral one, and as used on the
range includes a great many
different kinds of grasses.
For example, in Colorado
"bunch-grass" probably
most often means one of the
fescues [Festuca scabrella),
more properly called buft'alo
bunch- grass; in Wyoming
and Montana the term is
probably most often applied
to the three Ports mentioned
under the discussion of mea-
dow-grasses, but is also often
applied to certain of the
fescues, as sheep fescue —
often also called "deer

grass" — and King's fescue [Festuca Mngii) (see fig. 23), the northern
representative of buffalo bunch-grass. Some of the wheat grasses
[Agropyron dfvergens and A. vaseyi) are also "bunch-grasses," but
as a rule some modification of the term is used in designating them,
as wire bunch-grass or bunch wheat- grass. All the above-mentioned
grasses are valuable as forage producers and are widely distributed,
most of them occurring over all or at least a large portion of the east-
ern Kocky Mountain region. In the higher altitudes sheep fescue,
the bunch-grass Poa-s-, and the wild-oat-grasses furnish most of the

Fig. 23.— King's fescue (Festuca kingii).

60

pasturage in the dry parks and open places. The mountain form of
prairie June-grass {Koeleria cristata) is often sufiQciently abundant to
form a large part of the pasturage in such places.

In the moister soils the pasturage is furnished by the grasses men-
tioned in the discussion of mountain meadows, supplemented by vari-
ous additioual species of more local occurrence or of less vigorous
growth, and hence of less value as forage producers.

Among such additional species might be mentioned downy oat-grass
[Trisetum suhspicatum niolle), American oat-grass {Avena americana)^
and a variety of Californian oat- grass ( Danthonia californica unispicata).
The first is an abundant and widely distributed grass, flourishing in a
variety of soils, but most commonly found in rather moist open wood-
lands and edges of thickets. American oat- grass is rather local in dis-
tribution, is seldom found below an altitude of 0,000 feet in Montana
and Wyoming or about 7,500 in Colorado, and is most abundant in the
upper i)art of the eastern Rocky Mountain region. It usually occurs
in rather dry bottoms or on hillsides, and when plentiful attbrds much
good forage. The variety of Californian oat-grass is smaller than the
species and is generally found on dry ridges and hillsides, while the
species occurs in rather moist meadows. It is quite abundant in por-
tions of Wyoming and western Montana and is regarded as a good
pasture grass, to some extent taking the place, in high altitudes, occu-
j)ied by blue grama on the plains.

NATIVE CLOVERS, VETCHES, AND LUPINES.

The eastern Rocky Mountain region is well supplied with native
leguminous plants, many of which are of great value for hay and
pasturage. Some are unpalatable and are seldom eaten by stock, and
a few are injurious when eaten in any considerable quantity, due to
certain poisons or other active principles contained in them. In the
three States includi d in this report there are more than a dozen native
clovers, eight or ten native vetches and vetchlings, at least fifty milk-
vetches or rattleweeds, two bush-peas, a dozen or more lupines, and a
host of other legumes.

THE CLOVERS.

The native clovers are found chietiy in the mountains and at compar-
atively high altitudes. Some of them are too rare and others too small
to be of much value for forage, but the majority are valuable, and four
or live are of sutticient imi)ortance to warrant careful experimentation
as to their ])ossib]e use as cultivated crops. From their appearance
and tliriftincss under natural conditions or in irrigated luitive meadows
it would certainly seem probable that several of them would prove of
great value for cultivation, especially in the higher altitudes, where
alfalfa and the common clovers can not be successfully grown.

Among the most important of these native clovers are Ueckwith's
clover {TrlJ'olium beckivitliii), long-stalked clover {T. longipes)^ moun-

61

tain red clover (T. megacephaluin), Parry's clover {T. parryi), silky-
dwarf clover (T. dasypliyllum)^ woolly-beaded clover (T. eriocephalum),
and Hayden's clover (T. haydeni). Of these, the first three are proba-
bly the most valuable. Beclvwith's clover has the lowest altitudinal
limit. It is abundant in rich meadows in some localities in southwest-
ern Montana at an altitude of about 5,000 feet, and extends as far
to the eastward as the Sioux Valley in South Dakota, where it is
frequently abundant, though rather local in distribution. It makes
a very fine growth in the rich irrigated meadows in Montana, and
is regarded as a valuable hay i)lant. In South Dakota ic is found
along rather dry swales and creek bot-
toms and affords a considerable amount
of pasturage, and under more favor-
able conditions becomes large enough
to be cut for hay. It seems to endure
drought quite well, better than the
common red clover, and is well worthy
of experimentation. On account of the
similarity of the fiower heads to those
of the common clover, it is sometimes
called "wild red clover."

Long-stalked clover is one of the
commonest of the clovers native to this
region, and has a wide distribution, ex-
tending from southern Colorado along
the Rocky Mountains to British Amer-
ica and west to the Pacific Slope. It
is seldom found below an altitude cor-
responding to 6,000 feet in southern
Colorado. It is at its best near the up-
permost limit for alfalfa, and is often
found in (piantity up to 9,000 feet alti-
tude. It is a slender, narrow-leafed
plant, usually a foot or more in height,
with pale, cream-colored or imrplish
tiowers. It is highly prized as a forage
plant by stockmen, by whom the pale-flowered variety is sometimes
called "■ wild white clover." It makes a fine growth in irrigated mead-
ows and deserves to be given a trial under cultivation.

Woolly-headed clover has much the appearance of long-stalked
clover, and occurs in similar situations, bat seems to have a more lim-
ited distribution, and is chiefly confined to the region west of the
Continental Divide.

Mountain red clover (see fig. 24) is one of the most robust- growing
native sorts found in the Eocky Mountain region. The flower heads
are large and showy, and the leaves are composed of from five to seven
leaflets, instead of three, as is the case with the other clovers of the

Fig. 24.-

Monntain red clover (Tnfolium
mcgacephalum) .

62

region. It produces stout, deep-growing roots, and has many other
qualities commending it to the attention of the experimenter. Like
the preceding, it is most widely distributed on the west side of the
Continental Divide.

The other clovers mentioned in the preceding list are all rather small
and are of especial value only as i)asturage. The most important are:
Parry's clover, generally distributed in the central Kocky Mountain
region, and most abundant at an altitude of from 10,000 to 13,000 feet;
silky dwarf clover, likewise occurring in the central Rocky Mountain
region, but with lower altitudinal limits and growing on drier soil
than Parry's clover; and Ilayden's clover, occurring in moist soil from
Wyoming north along the mountains at an altitude of from 7,000 to
10,200 feet.

All the clovers mentioned in the preceding pages are perennials.
There are only two or three species of the annual clovers native to the
region. xVnnual red clover [Trifolium inrolucratiim) is widely distrib-
uted and is by far the most valuable of the annual sorts. Few-flowered
clover (T. pmiciflorum) is occasionally met witli, and it is likely that
small-headed clover (T. microcephalum) may occur in western Colorado
and southwestern Wyoming* The annual clovers are all found at com-
paratively low altitudes.

THE VKTCHES AND VETCHLINGS.

Two species of the true vetches occur in this region and both are of
value for forage. American vetch ( Yicia americana) is found in rich,
moist meadows and open thickets, and is regarded as a valuable native
forage plant. It produces long trailing or climbing vines quite thickly
covered with leaves and affords a good yield of forage. Narrow-leafed
vetch {V. linearis) is much smaller than the preceding, occurs in drier
situations, and, like it, is distributed throughout the entire region. It
afibrds less forage than American vetch, and is less palatable, but
thrives on soil too dry for that si)ecies, and hence replaces it in many
localities. It is a hardy, aggressive plant, and rai)idly takes possession
of idle, broken land, under some circumstances becoming a weed,
although not a troublesome one.

The vetchlings are better represented in this region than the true
vetches, some five or six kinds being found, of which at least three are
of value for forage. Tliey are not very palatable in the fresh state,
and hence are of more importance as hay plants. The most valuable
sorts are the prairie vetchlings {Lathyrus ornatus and L. poli/morphus)
and marsh vetchling {L. palustris). The former are found chiefly in
the central and southern portions of the region, while the latter occurs
. throughout.

Small i)rairi(', vetchling (L. ornatii.s) is usually found in <lry ])rairies,
and in some parts of the region, as in southeastern Wyoming, is very
abundant. It fruits plentifully, and the seeds are said to be edible,

63

comparing favorably witli the common garden pea. The larger prairie
vetcliliug {L. polymorphus) occurs in rather moister situations than the
preceding and is a somewhat more robust plant with much larger tiow-
ers. It is very abundant in j)ortions of central and southern Colorado,
where it is regarded as a valuable element in native meadows.

Marsh vetchling is a much taller plant thau either of the foregoing
and occurs chiefly in rich, moist meadows and about the edges of thick-
ets. It is freijueutly sufiSciently
abundant to form an important part
of the hay, adding very materially to
its feeding value. In some localities
it is called "meadow pea."

Among other vetchlings occurring
in this region of more or less value as
forage plants are veiny-leafed vetch-
ling {Latliyrus venosus), growing usu-
ally on sparsely wooded hillsides and
river banks, and cream-colored vetch-
ling {L. ochrolei(cus), found in similar
situations to the preceding.

One of the most valuable legumi-
nous plants found on the prairies is
Dakota vetch {Lotus amerimnus) (see
fig. 25), a bushy annual growing
throughout the entire Eocky Moun-
tain region. It is most abundant on
sandy river bottoms, but also occurs
on the drier uplands. Stock is very
fond of it, either as pasturage or as
hay. In the Upper Missouri region
it is one of the most highly prized

native forage plants, and the rancher who has a good lot of it in his
meadows and pastures considers himself fortunate. As it is an annual
it must be allowed to mature its seed and should not be grazed too
closely nor cut too early. The blooming season is quite long, so that
buds, flowers, and both green and mature fruits may often be seen ou
the plant at tlie same time. As a rule many of the seeds are ripened
before haying time arrives, and it is a common practice among ranchers
to use hay racks with tight bottoms in order to save the shattered
seed that it may be scattered over thin places in the meadows.

Fig. 25. — Dakota vetch {Lotus americanus).

THE LUPINES.

Although the wild lupines are so abundantly represented in this
region, as to both kinds and individuals, they can hardly be regarded
as of much value for forage from the fact that they are generally so
unpalatable that stock will seldom eat them unless forced to do so by

64

hunger. Sheep eat them more readily than other stock. Many of the
species thrive on dry, rocky soils too poor to pr(xluce much other vege-
tation, and they probably do a great deal toward improving the fertil-
ity of these soils, and are thus indirectly beneficial ; but many ranchers
regard them as weeds, owing to their tendency to spread rapidly in
overstocked pasture lands.

THK MILK-VETCHES.

The milk-vetches, or rattle-weeds, as some of them are called, are
by far tlie best represented group of leguminous plants in the range
region. Of the numerous sorts some are valuable forage plants, others

are too small to be of any value
or are so unpalatable that stock
will not eat them, and a few — the
so called "loco weeds" — are in-
jurious to stock under certain cir-
cumstances, causing considerable
loss by killing the animals eating
them.

The milk-vetches occur on a
great variety of soil, from rich,
moist bottom lands to dry, sterile,
rocky, and gravelly ridges, often
forming a large proi)ortion of
the vegetation. In some of the
species the fruits are» large and
fleshy and are much sought after
by stock, particularly by sheep.
There are i)robably a great many
kinds that are of more or less
value as forage plants, but our
knowledge of the real value of
most of the species is very limited
and reports are contradictory,
some stockmen regarding certain
sorts as injurious, while others
maintain that they are valuable forage i)lants, stock eating them with
the best of results.

Amcmg the most common and valuable kinds are bristly-fruited milk-
vetch {Astrm/alufi hi/iwfjiottis), ground plum or bullalo pea {A. crassi-
carpus), larger ground plum {A. mexicanns), and prairie milk-vetch
{A. adsurgenn), (see fig. 26.) Other species, regarded by maily as valu-
able, are Morton's milk-vetch {A. mortoni), zigzag milk- vetch {A. fiexu-
osus), and sleiuler milk-vetch {A. gracilis). T.ow luilkvetch (A. loti-
florns) and bitter milk-vetch (.1. hisitlcatns) are l)y some regarded as
good forage plants and by others as injurious species. Some years

Fig. 26.— Prairie milk-vetch {Astragalus adsur-
gens).

65

ago the writer observed both cattle and horses eating considerable
quantities of the former withuut any apparent ill eftect, but the latter
is so bitter and strong-scented that it would hardly seem possible that
stock would eat much of it.

RUSHES AND SEDGES.

These grass-like plants play no small part in the forage supply and
are of much more importance than is generally understood. There are
almost as many kinds of rushes and sedges native to this region as
there are grasses, and all are eaten by stock to a greater or less extent.
Comparatively few kinds grow on the dry prairies and hills, most of
them occurring in low prairies, meadows, and bogs. Sometimes the
greater part of the hay obtained from wet, boggy meadows is made up
of these plants. They are particularly abundant in some of the moun-
tain meadows, frequently, especially early in the season, occupying
the land almost to the exclusion of the grasses.

RUSHKS.

There are at least six of the bulrushes that deserve mention as for-
age plants. These are meadow bulrush [i^cirpus atrovirens), salt-marsh
bulrush (*S'. robiistus), river bulrush {S. Jiuriatilis), small-fruited bul-
rush (*S'. microcar^jus), prairie bulrush {S. campestris), and alkali or
chair-makeis' bulrush {S. americanus). The best of these, though not
neces.^arily the most abundant, are river bulrush, meadow bulrush, and
salt-marsh bulrush. Alkali or chair-makers' bulrush (the former name
is most used in this region) is one of the most abundant species, and, as
its common name indicates, occurs on alkali flats along streams and
elsewhere in moist soil contajning large quantities of alkali. It is
tough and wiry, but is often eaten by stock when better forage is scant.

Of the spike rushes, common spike-rush {Eleocharis palustris) and
flat-stemmed spike-rush {E. acuminata) are the most important. Id
wet meadows, particularly those that are overirrigated, these rushes
are very abundant, sometimes forming the larger part of the vegeta-
tion. Some of the larger forms of common spike-rush yield a large
amount of hay, but the quality is much inferior to that obtained from
the grasses.

There are d dozen or more of the bog rushes found in the eastern
Eocky Mountain region. All are tough and wiry and afford an inferior
quality of forage, but a number of them are sufficiently abundant to
form a large part of the vegetation in some of the native meadows.
The species most frequently found are slender bog rush {Jiincus tennis),
Torrey's bog rush {J. torreyi), Baltic bog rush {J. haltici(s), knotted bog
rush {J. nodosus), Xevada bog rush {J. nevadenHs), and mountain bog
rush {J. xiphioides montanus).
20013— No. 12 5

6G

SEDGE8.

TLe list of sedges is a long oue, more tbau a liumlred different kinds
being found in tlie IJoek}^ Mountain region. Tliej- furnisli a better
quality of forage, as a rule, than that obtained from the rushes. Some
of the species grow on dry prairies and hillsides, but the majority pre-
fer the moister soils of the valleys and lowlands. Sedges form a con-
spicuous part of the vegetation of the meadows and moist mountain
sides at the higher altitudes. Some of the species are small and are of
value only as pasturage, but many others are of sufficient size to yield a
large amount of hay which compares favorably in cjuality with that
obtained from grasses growing in similar situations.

On the dry uplands, thread-leafed sedge [Corcv ^fili/oJia). often also
called "wire-grass," and dwarf sedge (C steuophyUa) furnish pastur-
age, the former being very abundant on dry ridges in some localities
and highly prized by stockmen. Dwarf sedge is often plentiful in dry
meadows, where it is larger than on the uplands. In swales and dry
meadows silvery-top sedge (C. Hccata), clustered lield-sedge {C. mar-
eid(t), and Douglas sedge {C. floiif/Jasii) are of considerable value for
both hay and pasturage. There are a great many different forms of
the Douglas sedge, some of them large and affording a good yield of
hay, and others too small for anything but pasturage. The species
is one of the most abundant in the sections nearer the mountains and
also ascends to the higher altitudes. Brown-top sedge {C. /est ic a) is
also abundant and valuable, but usually occurs in moister situations
than the last. In wet, boggy meadows tlie sedges sometimes compose
more of the vegetation than do the grasses. This is particmlarly the
case at the higher altitudes or above 7,000 or 8,000 feet. The species
most commonly found in these meadows are tussock sedge {C. strlcta),
bottle sedge (C. utricnlata, and var. minor), Nebraska sedge {C. nehras-
liensis), woolly-fruited sedge (C. lannr/inosa), and giant sedge {C. aris-
fata). All produce a relatively large amount of leafage, and when cut
in proper season aft'ord hay of average quality.

MISCELLANEOUS NATIVE FORAGE PLANTS.

There are many miscellaneous plants native to this region that lielp
to make up the general forage supply. These are mostly plants that
the uninforn)ed individual would regard as weeds, but Avhich. under
the conditions prevailing on the range, form an important part of the
annual supply of stock feed. On the i)lains and foothills this vegeta-
tion consists very largely of the various kinds of "sage'' and saltworts,
j)lants characteristic of the arid and semiarid West. In the mountains
it consists mainly of shrubby willows, mountain mahogany, shrubby
ciniiuefoil, and i)urshia. There is a great variety of plants called
"sage" on the range, as, for example, the bitter sages, or "sage-brush"
{Artemisia S])p.)| green sages, or "rabbit-brush" {Bigelovia spp.); salt-
sage {Atriple.v spp.); sweet sage, or winterfat {Eurotia Janata), etc.

67

THE BITTER SAGES.

The bitter sages, or sage-brusbes, are most of tbem so bitter that
stock will not eat them as a general thing, except in times of scarcity
of forage. Sheep eat the sagebrush more often than do any other of
the domestic animals. They do not make a general diet of it, but eat
small quantities now and then, as if for a tonic or appetizer. Bud
brush or spring sage {Artemisia spinescens) is probably the most valu-
able of this group of sages. It is most abundant in the Eed Desert of
Wyoming, and extends into the arid regions to the southwest. The
masses of young leaves and flowers are much relished by sheep, and
the plant is regarded as an impor-
tant member of the forage produc-
ing species of the desert. Silvery
sage {A. canit) is probably the next
most valuable of the bitter sages.
When browsed closely it produces
a great many annual shoots, which
are quite succulent and are eaten
by sheep to a considerable extent.

THE SALT-SAGES.

The salt sages are of much more
importance as forage jdants than
the bitter sages. There are more
than a dozen species native to this
region, and all are of value for for-
age. In some sections, as in central
Wyoming and in the Ked Desert,
these salt-sages, or "salt-bushes,"
furnish more of the forage than all
the other plants combined. The
kinds of most importance in this
region are Xuttall's salt sage {Atri-
plcx nuttalUi), spiny salt-sage {A.
confertifolia)^ hoary salt-sage, or

shad scale {A. canescens) (see Hg. 27), Ifelson's salt-sage {A.pahidaris), sil-
very salt-sage {A. argenteAi), tumbling salt-sage [A. volutans), and
spreading salt sage {A. expansa). All are annuals except the first three,
which are perennials and are of especial importance for winter pastur-
age. The leaves, fruits, and young shoots are relished by all kinds of
stock. Of the three, ISTuttairs salt-sage is probably the most valuable.

The salt-sages thrive on land strongly impregnated with alkali, and
so dry that but little other vegetation will exist upon it, and as there
are many thousands of acres of such land in this region these plants
are of jiarticular importance. In certain districts, as along the Green
Eiver iu Wyoming and also in the central part of the State, there

Fig. 27. — Sliad scale {Atriplex cayiescens).

68

are extensive areas in which the water supply is so limited that stock
can not be kept on them diiriiif? the summer. Here it is that the salt-
sages thrive, and are of especial value for winter forage. During the
growing- season the plants make a good development, as they are not
kept back by grazing, and the ripened fruits and " sun-cured" leaves,
together with the young shoots, make excellent forage for winter, when,
since the snow furnishes the animals with water, the stock can be
brought to these regions. Thus it is that these desert areas become
valuable winter pastures and furnish food for many thousands of sheep,
cattle, and horses for about four months of the year. Stockmen, espe-
cially those owning large droves of sheep, are almost as anxious to
establish and maintain their rights to " winter ranges"' on these desert
areas as they are to secure their *' share" of the summer range on the
prairies and in the mountains.

Under this system of winter grazing tlie condition of these salt-sage
pasture lands is continually improving. This is probably due to the
enriching of the land from the droppings of the animals, and to the
increased production of new shoots by the perennial sages, resulting
from the close browsing by the animals during winter, followed by an
undisturbed period of growth in the summer.

The annual salt-sages are valuable principally for summer and au-
tumn forage, not usually being persistent enough to be of much impor-
tance for winter use. However, under certain circumstances, the fallen
leaves and fruits may be collected by the wind into little piles in
depressions of the ground, or behind shrubs and other persistent plants,
and are picked up by sheep or other stock. Under ordinary conditions
all of the salt-sages mentioned in the above list produce an abundance
of seed, and in most cases it is easily gathered. In view of the recog-
nized value of these plants for forage it would seem well worth while
to attempt to grow the better sorts under cultivation. There are many
localities where they could be used to advantage,

W INTERFAX.

One of the most highly prized of the sages is wiuterfat or sweet sage
{Ei<rotla lanata). (See tig. 28.) It is a rather small, woolly, half shrnbby
perennial, found throughout the IJocky Mountain region in the dry soil
of the plains and foothills. It is of most imi)ortance for winter pas-
turage and is esteemed not only for its feeding value, but also for a
beneiicial effect which it is supposed to have on the health of stock
eating it. It usually fruits abundantly, and the great fattening (piali-
ties attributed to it are no doubt largely due to the fact that the
nuitured fruits compose a large part of the forage obtained by the
animals.

Winterlat grows readily from the seed and could undoubtedly be
cultivated to good advantage in many localities.

69

GUEASEWOOD.

Anotlier plant of great value for fornge on dry, gterile, strongly alka-
line soil is greasewood {tS(ircob((tus vermieulatus). (See tigs. 3 and 29.) It
is more or less abundant throughout the entire region and is of especial
importance in the bad lands and in sterile, broken areas on bluffs along
the streams, and on the so called "black alkali" spots in the valleys
and plains. It is a scraggy, thorny shrub from 2 to 10 feet high, with
fleshy, succulent leaves, and usually prodnces an abundance of frnit. ■
The leaves, fruit, and young shoots are eaten by stock to such an .

Fig. 28.— Winterfat (Eurotia lanata).

Fig. 29. — Greasewood (SarcohaUis vermiciilattis).

extent that in some localities the plants are kept so closely browsed as
to be ultimately destroyed. Under ordinary conditions this plant fur-
nishes a large amount of forage and is particularly valuable, since it
will thrive on soil that will not even produce sage-brush. As stated
elsewhere in this report, "sage-brush" land is easily subdued, and
under irrigation produces excellent crops of grain, alfalfa, etc., while
"greasewood" land is regarded as of but little agricultural value by
ranchers because of the quantity and character of the alkali contained
in it.

MISCELLAXEOUS.

Among other plants of weedy habit which add considerably to the
forage supply in some localities are the goosefoots or lambs-(iuarters

70

{Chenopodium spp.) and the kuotweeds (rohiyonum spp.). There are a
half dozen species of each that occur in sufficient abundance to be of
vahie. They are usually found in broken soil along banks and trails
and about desiccated ponds, occupying land in which grasses will uot
thrive or from which they have been killed out.

In the higher foothills and mountains the browsing is principally
furnished by such shrubby plants as the willows, shrubby ciniiue-foil
[FotentiUa fniticosa), mountain mahogany {Ccrcocarpus 2)arvi/<)lii<.s)j
Torrey's nine-bark {Pliy.socarjins torreiji). and Turshia (Purshiu triden-
tuia). These are all often so extensively eaten by stock that it is

difficult to find a plant showing
anything like its natural habit of
growtb. This is particularly true
on the sheep ranges. Shrubby
cin(iue-foil was seen in great abun-
dance the i)ast season (1897) on the
Big Horn Mountains, but wherever
the sheep had been ranged to ajiy
considerable extent the bushes
were so (;losely browsed that it
was difficult to get good botanical
specimens. The same was true to
a great extent with the several
species of shrubby willows occur-
ring on the same mountains.

Wild liciuorice [Glycyrrliiza le^n-
dota) is abundant in low, sandy
prairies and river bottoms through-
out the range region. This plant,
■ regarded as a troublesome weed in
the eastern prairie States, is highly
esteemed as a forage plant by
many ranciiers. It is often pres-
ent in abundance in the hay ob-
tained from river-bottom meadows,
and such hay is regarded as having high feeding value. In the Big
Horn Basin it is fre(iueutly called "wild alfalfa," and many tons of it
are cut annually.

In addition to the various plants mentioned in the preceding pages,
all of recognized value as forage producers, there is a long list of plants
which, although each is perhaps «.f but little value in itself, when they
are considered in the aggregate the amount of forage afforded by them
is large. Such are the prairie clovers {I'dalostrmon spp. and Psornlea
spp.), the Daleas [Daka <ilopeci(rouhs and V>. aHrat), the bush-peas
{Thrrmopfiis m(»itaiut (see tig. 30) and T. rliomhoideo), the herbaceous
ciu(iue foils (Z'o<t'/i/<7/rt spp.), wild asters, and many others.

Fig. 30.— Moutaua buslipea (Thermopsis
inontuna).

71
IMPROVEMENT OF THE RANGES.

One of tlie most important factors in the improvement of the range
conditions would be the establisliment of some system of control which
would allow each rancher the exclusive right to graze his stock on a
given piece of land for a long term of years. As long as the "open
range"' is "free to all," ranchmen will continue to try to get their
"share" of it and there will be no possibility of any substantial improve-
ment. Under the present conditions there is no incentive for the
rancher to make any special efforts to improve the range except in so
far as it has to do with the immediate necessities of his stock. He
knows that if his stock does not eat the grass, that of somebody else
will, and naturally he thinks he might as well benefit by it as anyone.
In his efforts to get his "share" he contributes to the general destruc-
tion instead of trying to avert it.

It is argued that if the" rancher could secure a long lease to a portion
of these public lands it would then be to his interest to improve and
maintain their productivit3^ He could then afford to build fences
and adopt other measures for the betterment of his holdings, being sure
that he and not someone else would get the benefit of his endeavors.

With the recent rapid increase in the number of tilled ranches and
the growing tendency tow^ard the raising of more coarse forage for
winter feeding, it ought to be possible to handle more stock than
formerly instead of less, as is the case at the present time. Thus in the
Big Horn Basin and elsewhere in northern Wyoming ranchers assert
that they can easily raise winter feed for more stock than their summer
range'will carry in its jn-esent depleted condition. This statement is
borne out by the fact that on many ranches one may see large quantities
of surplus hay, often representing portions of crops of two or three
years. There are other districts in which the practice of growing for-
age for winter use should be greatly extended. The range could supply
plenty of pasturage for a part of the year, but is insuflticient for both
summer and winter forage. Millet, rye, oats, field peas, rape, sorghum,
and other forage crops can some of them be grown with at least a fair
degree of success in most localities in this region, and an extension of
their cultivation would have a beneficial effect on the open range, in
that it would be less closely grazed.

An important problem to be considered in connection with the
improvement of range conditions is that of the water supply, particu-
larly as to the conservation and more equable distribution of the
annual rainfall. Something can be done by the individual efforts of
the stockmen, but if much permanent good is to be accomplished the
united efforts of the community and possibly the aid of the local or the
General Government will need to be turned in this direction.

The conservation of water in this manner would serve a twofold
purpose. ]^ot only would it render possible the irrigation of more land
adapted to the growing of forage and other crops and the better irriga-

72

tion of land already under cultivation, "but water would also be pro-
vided for stock in places convenient to the grazing lands, and niucU of
the injmy to the range due to excessive trampling would be avoided.
As the laws governing the distribution of water for irrigation become
better understood and more justly applied much of the present une-
qual distribution of the water from the running streams will be cor-
rected, and stock will be better supplied with drinking water and
more forage will be produced. Under the present conditions one may
frequently see a man injuring his meadows and fields by using too
much water, while those of his neighbor some n^.iles down the valley
are suffering, perhaps totally ruined, for lack of water.

In a region varying so widely in soil aud climatic conditions it is not
to be expected that any one or two grasses or forage plants can be
introduced to meet all the requirements. Timothy, redtop, alfalfa, and
other of the commoner "tame" sorts have shown tlieinselves admirably
adapted for certain localities. Smooth brome is being used with tine
success in some of the drier sections. But other varieties are needed,
and the only way to select them is through careful experimentation.
It is not neces ary that these experiments shonld be elaborate.
Each rancher should test one or two of the hardy grasses or forage
plants in a small way each season, and thus determine for himself what
kinds are best adapted to his needs and to the conditions prevailing in
his locality.

These experiments should not be confined to ''tame" or introduced
sorts, but should be extended to desirable native kinds, such as have
been mentioned in the preceding pages. There is no locality without
native grasses or forage plants tliat are worthy of trial under cultiva-
tion, aud anyone can, with but little trouble, obtain enongh seed for
such a test. Some farmers are already following this phm, and while
some attempts meet with failure, others give very encouraging results —
so mu(;h so that the groat value of some of the native species is clearly
demonstrated for certain localities, and in some cases the seed is being
placed on. the market, as for example, slender wheat-grass {Ayropi/ron
tenerum) and reed canary-grass [Plialaris arumUnacea). It is extremely
likely that there are native varieties of grasses and clovers which will
be found to be well adai)ted for cultivation above the altitudinal limits
of timothy, alfalfa, and other of the commonly cultivated grass and
forage crops. Among such may be mentioned Nevada blue grass ( /\<a
ncvadensi.s), Wyoming blue grass (/*. ivliceleri), rough-leafed bent
[A<jrostis (iHpeHfoUn), mountain foxtail {Alopccurus oceidentalis), short-
awned brome {Bromus breriaristaUis), western brome {B.innnpeUianm)^
Beckwith's clover {Trifoliiim hecl-withii), nud long stalked clover ( 7'.
loufjipefs).

As a general rule ranchmen a-^sert that the only treatment recjuired
for the restoration of the range is rest, but this under the i)rescnt con-
ditions is practically an imi)ossibility. IMoreover, in some localities the

73

work of destruction Las gone so far that sometliing more than mere
rest is necessary. The valuable grasses have been killed out and their
places takeu by plants of weedy habit, of little, if any, value for forage,
or the land is without vegetation at all. To reclaim such areas arti-
ficial seeding is necessary. With these places again seeded and pro-
ducing forage it will be easier to give at least a partial rest to the
lands on which there still remains enough of the good grasses to accom-
plish natural reseeding. Many farmers and ranchmen in the N^orth-
west have been able to materially increase the stock-carrying capacity
of their pasture lands by scattering over the worn spots the seed of
such grasses as western wheat-grass {Agropyron spicatum), prairie June-
grass {KoeJeria cristata), Kentucky blue grass, and smooth brome.
Sometimes these areas are harrowed or "disked" after seeding, and
sometimes not. One practice is to seed while the ground is wet and
drive stock over the land to work the seed into the soil.

When wheat-grass is already present in considerable (quantity the pro-
ductiveness may be vastly improved by " disking" up the land. Some
farmers even go so far as to plow up the land and then allow the wheat-
grass to come in again, which it does in a very short time. This latter
method keeps the land in better condition and gets rid of weeds, and
is a good i)ractice to follow on the smaller ranches. When seed can be
had it would be a good plan to sow a small quantity of prairie June-
grass, bench-land spear-grass, smooth brome, or other of the better
native or introduced sorts, that the land may be occupied at once.
Sometimes such annuals as millet, oats, rye, and sorghum can be used
to advantage. The practice of fencing the range in such a manner
that one portion of it may be grazed while the other is resting is to be
recommended. This allows the grasses opportunity to recuperate and
to produce seed occasionally.

If each ranchman and farmer could but keep the land under his own
immediate control up to the i)oint of greatest productivity the indirect
effect upon the open range through decreased demands upon it would
be decidedly beneficial. In the absence of some rational system of
control for the open range little can be done in a direct way to bring
about better forage conditions upon it, but much can and will be done
on private holdings as soon as the ranchers realize, as they are begin-
ning to do, that they can not be continually taking from their meadow
and pasture lands without adding something to them by care, occasional
reseeding, and cultivation.

INDEX TO COMMON NAMES.

Page
Alfalfa. 10. 17, 18, 19, 24, 26, 27, 28, 30, 31, 34, 35, 60, 72

Alkali bulrush 65

meadow-grass 40

Alpine blue gras.s 45

timothy 30,44,45,46

Alsiko 36

American oat-grass 60

vetch 62

Annual rtd clover 62

Bait ic bog rush 65

Barley 17,37

Barnyard-grass 24

Bearded \v heat-grass 44

Beckwiths clover 60, 61, 72

Bench-land spear-grass 40, 41, 42, 73

Big bine stem 22

co; d-grass 22, 26, 27, 28

sand-grass 22,26,27,28,43

Bitter milk-vetch 64

sage 66, 67

Black grama 28,53,54

Blue grama 22, 26, 27, 28, 29, 52. 53, 54, 57, 60

joint 9,39,43,44,49

stem 10

Bog rush 65

Bottle sedge 60

Bristly-fruited milk- vetch 64

Brome-grass 44, 40, 59

Broom corn millet 38

Brown-top sedge 66

doura 37

Bud-brush 67

Buffalo bunch-grass 59

grass 9. 10, 22, 28, 52, 54

pea 04

Bunch-grass 10, 40, 41, 52, 56, 58

wheat-grass 59

Bush-pea 60,70

Cactus 21, 26

California oat-grass 49, 60

Canadian blue grass 32

Chair-makers bulrush 65

Clover 31, 60, 62

Clustered tield-sedge 66

Colora<lo blue stem 39

Common blue joint 43, 49, 59

Corn 17, 22, 29, 35

Cream-colored vetchling 63

Dakota vetch 23,63

Dalea '0

Deer-grass 59

Douglas sedge 66

Downy oat-grass 60

Dwarf sedge 66

Esparcette 38

Page,

False quack-grass 39

redtop 40. 42

Feathei- bunch-grass 22, 28, 55. 50

Few-flowered clover 62

Field peas 38.71

Fine top salt-grass 57

Flat-stemmed spike-rush 65

Fowl meadow-grass 40. 42

Fresh-water cord-grass 21

Giant ryegrass 43, 44

sedge 66

Goosefoot 69

Greasewood 14. 20, 69

Green sage 66

Ground-plum 64

Hairy vetch 38

Haydens clover 61, 62

Hoary salt-sage 67

Hungarian 38

Indian millet 52

Jerusalem coru 37

•Tune clover 21

Kentucky blue grass 29.31.40,41,73

Kings fescue 25, 59

Knotted bog rush 65

Lambs-(|uarter3 09

Langsdortt's reed bent 49

Larger ground-plum 6t

prairie-vetchling 62

Loco- weeds 64

Long-leafed sage 23

stalked clover 60,01,72

Low milk- vetch 64

spear-grass 32

Lupine 60, 63

Macouns rye-grass 43

Marsli-vetchling 62, 63

Meadow bulrush 65

fescue 29, 33

foxtail 46

Milk-vetch 60, 64

Millet 24.29,38,71,73

Montana bush-pea 70

sand-grass 26,52.58

Mortons milk-vetch 64

Mountain blue joint 49, 59

bog rush 65

foxtail 44, 40

mahogany 60, 70

meadow-grass 45

red clover 61

timothy 46

wheat-grass 59

Xarrow-leafed vetch 62

Nebraska sedge 66

75

76

Page

K eertle-grass 22. 26, 27. 28, 52, 54, 55, 59

Kelsons iieetUegrass uG. 59

saltsage Ci

Nevada hog rush C5

blue grass 40, 42,4;{,45, 72

Kortheni blue joint ^'3

Kuttallssaltsase C7

Oatsrass 44.48,49.59

Oats 10, 17. 25, 27. 28, 37. 71 , 73

Orchard grass 29, 34

Pale buiiib-grass 41

Parrys clover 61, ^2

oatgras.s 49

Porcupine-grass 22. 55, 59

Prairie bulrush ^^

clover 70

June-grass 22, 26, 52, 56, 57, 60, 73

milk- vetch 64

rush-grass 57

timothy 56

vetchlings 62

Purple-top 50

Purple-top needle-grass 56. 59

Purshia 66. 70

Eabhit-brush 66

Kape 38,71

Rattleweed 60

Eed clover 30,35,36,61

fescue 34, 48

top 17, 24. 28. 29, :<0, 31 , 32, 47. 48. 72

Eeed canary-grass 44, 72

meadow-grass 40

Kiver bulrush 65

Eocky Mountain oat-grass 48.49

Eough-leal'ed bent 44,48,72

salt-grass 57

Rushes 31, 65

Eye 17, 25, 27. 37. 71, 7.T

Sagebrush 21. 26. 27, 35, 66. 69

Salt-bushes 67

Salt grass 27, 52. 58

Salt-marsh bulrush 65

Salt-sage 26.66,67

Sand rusli-grass 26, 57

vetch 38

Scribners blue Joint 50

Sedges 31,65,66

Shad-scale 67

Sheep fescue 33, 34, ,59

Shoit awned bronie 46, 47, 72

Shrubby cin<iuel'oil 66,70

Side-oats grama 53

Silky dwarf clover 61. 62

Silvery sage 67

salt-sage 67

Silvery -top .sedge 66

Page-

Sleepy-grass 56

Slender bog rush 65

cord grass 26

milk-vetch 64

wheat-grass 39. 72

Slough-grass 44

Small-fruited bulrush 65

Small headed clover 62

Small prairie-vetchling 62

Smooth l)unch-grass 41,45

Smooth or Hungarian brome. . . 29, 32, 33. 47, 72, 73

Sorghum 29. 35, 37, 71, 73

Spike-rush 65

Spiny salt sage . . : 67

Spreading sal t-sage 67

Spring-sage 67

Squirrel tail grass 25

Suksdorfs blue. joint 50

.Sweet sage 66, 68

Tall grama 53

Thread-leafed sedge 66

Timothy. . 17, 19. 24, 27, 28. 29, 30, 31, 36. 45. 47. 56, 72

Torreys bog rush ... - 65

iiine-bark 70

Tumbling salt-sage 67

Tussock-grass 44, 47, 48, 59

sedge 66

Yeiuy-leafed vetchling 63

Vetches 60.62

Vetchlings 60, 62

Virginian lyme-grass 44

Western brome 46, 72

wheat-grass 2:i. 26, 28, 39, 73

Wheat 10, 17, 25. 28, 37

Wheat-grass 39, 44. 52. 54, 57, 59, 73

White clover 36

White sweet clover 24

Wild alfalfa 70

aster 70

liquorice 70

red clover 61

rye 23. 39. 43, 52

timotliy 44

white clover 61

Willow 60,70

Winterfat 66,68,69

Wire bunch-grass 59

grass 6(i

Woodland meadow-grass 40. 42, 45

Woolly-fruited sedge 66

Woolly-headed clover 61

WyoiTiini; blue grass 4 J. 41,44,45.72

Yellow milo maize 37

t(ii> 43,59

Zi-zas niilkvctcli 64

INDEX TO BOTANICAL NAMES.

Pa^e.

Agropyron divergeiis 59

p9eu(loiei)en8 I!9

ricliardsoui 44

spicatum 22, 24, 26, 28, 7P.

tenerum 39, 72

vaseyi -■ 59

Tiolaceum 59

Agroatis alba 31

aspenfolia 44,72

Alopecurus occidentalis 44. 4G, 72

pratensis 46

Artemisia cana 67

loiigilVilia 21,26,27

spiiK'scens 07

tiidintata 27

Astragalus adsurgPDS 64

bi.sulcTtns 64

crassii.arpu8 64

flexiiD.sus 64 '

gracilis 64 '

liypoglottis 64

lotitlonis 64

niexicanus 64 !

iiiortoni 64 !

Atriplex argentea 67

canesctn.s 67

conffi'tifulia 67

expansa 67

nuttallii 67

pabulaiis 67

volntaiis 67

Avena ameiicana 60

Bec'kiuannia erucitformi.s 44

Bigelovia 66

Bouteloua curtipeudula 53

hirsuta 28,53

oligo.st.ichya 22, 26, 27, 28, 29, 52

Bromiis bre viaiistatus 46. 47. 72

iueniiis 32,33

pimipellianus 4G, 72

Bulbilis dactyloides 22, 28, 52, 54

Calamagrostis aiiiericana 43

canadensis 43

acuminata 49

langsdorffii 49

montanensis 26, 52, 58

scribneri 50

.suksdortii 50

Calamovilfa longit.dia 22, 26, 27, 28. 43

Carex aristata 66

dougla.sii 66

festiva 66

filitblia 23, 66

lanuginosa 66

Page.

Carex marcida 66

uebra.skensis 66

siccata 66

steuophylla 66

stricta 6G

utriculata minor 66

Cercocarpu.s parvitblius 70

Clienopodiura 70

Dactylis glonierata 34

Dalea alopecuroidcs 70

aurea 70

Danthonia caliloniica 49

unispicata 60

intermedia 48,49

parry i 49

Descharapsia caespitosa 47

Distichlis spicata 27, .12, 58

Eleocbaris acuminata 65

paUistris 65

Elynuis canadensis 23, 26, 43

condensatus 43

macounii 43

virniuicus 44

Eriocoma <u.spidata 52

Eurotia lanata 66,68,69

Festuca elatior pratensis 33

kingii 25, 59

o vina 33, 34, 59

rubra 34

scabrella 59

Glycyrrliiza lepidota , 70

Hordeuni jubatum 24

Juucus balticus 65

nevadensis 65

nodosus 65

tenuis 65

torreyi 65

xiphioides montanus 65

Kceleria ciistata 22,26,52,56,60,72

Latbyrus ochroleucus 63

ornatus 62

palustris 62

liolyniorphua 62, 63

venosus 63

Lotus americanus 23, 63

Xlelilotusalba 24

I'anicularia americana 40

Panjcum crus-galli 24

Petalosteraon 70

Pbalaris aruudinacea 44, 72

Pbleum alpinum 30, 44

praten.se 30

Pby socarpus torreyi 70

I'inus scopulorum 25

77

78

Page.

Poa alpiua ^^

annua ■*'-

arida 40.42

buckley ana 40. 41, i>6

compressa S2

flava 40

Ifcvigala 40, 41

leptoconia 4.')

lucida 40,41

neiiioralis 40

nevadeiKsis 40, 43, 72

pratfiisi.s 31,40

■vrheeleri 40,72

Poljiionum "0

Potentilla Tn

f rnticosa 70

Psoralea "0

Puccinellia airoiiU's 40

Pursbia tridentata 70

Sarcobatus vennii'ulatus 09

Scirpus anioricaims 65

atrovii'L'ii.s 05

cauipestri.s 05

fluviatilis Go

microfaipus 05

robust ii.< 05

Spartina cyiiosuroi(le.s 21.22,26.27.28,44

Page.

Spartina gracili.s 20,44

Sporobolus airoides 57

a.sperifolius 57

cryptandrus 26,57

depauperatus 57

Stipa comata 22. 26, 27, 28, 55

iiiiiHii' 56, 51)

nelsoui 50. 59

spartea 22, 55

twefdy i 59

vaseyi 56

viiidula 22, 26, 28, 55

Tberniopsis luoutana 70

ilioiuboidea 70

Ti ifulium beckwitbii GO. 72

da.sypbylhim 61

cri()ce])lT;ilum 61

ba\ dciii ■ 01

involucratuni. 62

lougipes 60, 72

luegacepbalum 61

niicrocepbaluni 62

parryi 61

paiiciflorum 62

Trisetuni siibspicatuni nioUe 60

Viiia americana 02

liueari.s 62

Bulletin No. 13.

Agros. 33.

U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE.

DIVISION' OF AGROSTOLOGY.
[Cirasw and Forag*- Plant In v4-«lisalioiiM.]

THE RED DESERT OF WYOMING

AND

ITS FOKAGE] RESOURCES,

BY

AVKN NELSON,

Profvssoi' of liotunij in the Universiiij of Wyotiihuj.

PREPAEED UNDEU THE DIRECTION OF THE AGKOSTOLOGIST.

WASHINGTON:

GOVKKNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.

1898.

LETTER OF TRANSMriTAL

tJ, S. Department of AaRiciiLTURE,

Division oe Agrostology,

Waslimgton, D. C, June 29^ 1S9S.
Sir: I have the honor to tiausniit lierewith and recommend for
pnblication as Bulletin No. 13 of this Division a report by Prof. Aven
Nelson on The lied Desert of Wyoming and its Forage Resources,
l)repared in accordance with the instructions of the Agrostologist.
The Bed Desert region of Wyoming is a waterless and nearly treeless
area. During the summer season it is practically uninhabitable, and
a visitor at this time would doubt very much whether the region could
be utilized in any way, especially as a stock range, but as a matter of
fact this Red Desert actually affords excellejit winter pasturage. Here
are fed the herds and tiocks of adjacent summer ranges, and many of
the stockmen in northwestern Colorado, eastern Utah, and southern
Idaho And in this region a desirable place to winter their stock, espe-
cially their sheep. So far as I am aware, we have in this report the
first presentation of the value of the Red Desert and other similar
regions which occur in the interior of all large continents as ranges
for stock, and the account given of the various forage plants npon
which thousands of cattle and sheep graze during the winter months
can not fail to be of interest. Among these plants which aftbrd nutri-
tious food and apparently thrive in the driest climates and in strongly
alkaline soil there are doubtless varieties that are well deserving of
propagation, and by their cultivation land now totally waste may be
rendered valuable.

Respectfully, F. Lamson-Scribner,

Ayroatologist.
Hon. James Wilson,

Secretary of Ayriculture.

f

I

CONTENTS.

Page.

Introduction 9

Itiueiary 10

Location and extent of tlie Red Desert 11

Topography 12

Geology 12

Soils 13

Composition of alkali in Red Desert soil 14

Climate 15

Temperature 15

Precipitation 16

- Water supply 17

Extent of settlement 18

Plant formations 18

Vegetation of the divisions of the desert 18

Distinct types of vegetation 19

Forage 20

Amount of forage 20

Quality of forage 22

Means for improvement of the forage 22

Characteristic desert plants 23

Vegetation of the desert, or winter, range 24

(1) The Salt-sages 24

(2) The Sage-brushes 25

(3) Wheat-grasses 25

(4) Indian Millet 27

(5) Giant Rye-grass 27

(6) Desert Juni])er 28

Vegetation of the hill country, or summer, range 28

(1) The Spear-grasses 29

(2) The Brome-grasses 29

(3) Dropseed 30

(4) Reed Meadow-grass 30

(5) Redtop 30

(6) The Sedges 31

List of the forage plants of the summer range 31

Grasses 31

Sedges 49

Other forage plants 53

Flora of the Red Desert 54

5

ILLUSTRATIONS.

PLATES.

Page.

Pi,. I. Fig. 1.— Tlie Real Red Desert. Fig. 2— Tli<> Greater Red Desert G8

II. Fig. 1.— Point of Rocks, Bitter Creek Valley. Fig. 2.— The Ideal Sum-
mer Range 68

III. Fig. 1. — Tetradymia sphwsa II. & A. Fig. 2. — Atni}hj- vohitans A.^e]». 68

IV. Sheldon's Pdiie-grass ( I'oa sheldoni Vasey) 68

V. Alkali Blue-grass (Poa jiincifoUa Scribu.) 68

FIGURES.

Fio. 1 . Western Wheat-grass {Agropyron splcatnm ) 26

2. Indi.'iu Millet ( Eriocoma vuspidata) 27

3. Switch-grass {Fanicum, rirgatum) 32

4. Seneca-grass (Saraslaiui odorata) 33

5. Mountain Foxtail {AJopectinis oceidentalh) 34

6. Fine-top Salt-grass {SporoboliLs (lirohhs) 35

7. Rough-leafed Salt-grass {Sporoholns axperifoUus) 36

8. Sporoholns confusus 37

9. Af/roslis h umilis 38

10. Fnvi}\ish. Reed-grass (Calamagroul is piirj)nias<t7is) 38

11. Slender Cord-grass {Spartiua yracUis) 39

12. Slough-grass ( Hetlinanma erncaiform is) , 40

13. Bulbous Melic-grass {Melica bulhosa) 41

14. Bench-land Spear-grass ( Poa arida ) 41

15. Nevada Bine-grass ( Poa veradensis ) 42

16. Kentucky Bliu'-grass {]'oa pratetisis) 43

17. Wyoming Blue-grass {Poa wheeleri) 44

18. Nerved Manna-grass ( Panicidaria nervato ) 45

19. King's Fescue ( Pestuca lingii) 46

20. False Couch-grass (Agropyron pseudorepens) 47

21. Elymus simplex 48

22. Water Whorl-grass ( ( 'aiahrosa aqualica) 55

23. Desert Rye-grass ( Plymns salin ns) 57

24. Grease-wood {Sarcohatus verviicidat us) 60

7

THE EED DESERT OF WYOMING AND ITS FOEAGE

EESOUEGES.

INTRODUCTION.

The region known as the Eed Desert lies in southern Wyoming.
Our knowledge of the phxnts of this region has heretofore been very
imperfect, due chietiy to the difllieulty and hardships involved in con-
ducting investigations during the summer months. As the Union
Pacific Eailroad traverses the entire region from east to west, informa-
tiou concerning its vegetation has, of course, been accumulating, but
previous to the present season (1897) no systematic survey of its
resources has ever been attempted.

There is little in view from the car windows to invite closer inspection
or more personal contact. From the I'latte River to the Green River,
a distance of 150 miles, there is not within sight of the railroad any
vegetation larger than sage-brush and grease-wood, and through much
of the distance these also seem dwarfed and scattering. Bright green
hues are extremely rare. With the exception of the fringes on the
banks of the few little creeks and the occasional bogs, the vegetation
is marked by colors which blend closely with those of the ground, the
dull grayish greens and grays varying to silvery wh ite. To this absence
of bright coloring in vegetation, is largely due the singularly barren
appearance of the whole region, and no doubt its reputed desert-like
condition is traceable to the same cause. Portions of the region are
deserted during a part of the year, but it is far from being a desert if
by that term is meant "bare of vegetation." This is attested by the
fact that great herds of cattle and flocks of sheep are profitably
wintered there year after year.

The conditions surrounding the Red Desert made it evident that the
region was an interesting field for investigation either from an economic
or a botanical standpoint. In order to gain an adequate idea of its
vegetation,it was deemed necessary to make at least three incursions
into the heart of the region for the spring, summer, and autumn floras,
respectively. In pursuance of this plan, the first trip was made under
the direction and in the interest of the experiment station of the Uni-
versity of Wyoming. The two later expeditions were made under a
commission from the Secretary of Agriculture through the chief of the

Division of Agrostology.

9

10

In this report account is taken of the field observations and material
obtained during the three trips into the region. The material secured
during the first trip was miscellaneous in its character, all plants then
in condition for collection being included. On the later trips onl}^ such
plants as were of known or possible forage value were collected.

ITINERARY.

In order to gain an adequate idea of the flora of the desert as related
to the stock interests of the State one must know something of the sum-
mer pasture as well as the winter range. On this account the field
work was extended into the hills and mountains of the southern border
of the State, both east and west from the desert.

To examine in (k'tail all this vast region in one season is evidently
an impossibility, nor is it probable that such a comprehensive survey
would prove profitable, for within the desert can be found certain dis-
tinctive areas, a knowledge of which will give a fair idea of the whole.

On account of the limited time at command for the first trip (ten days
in the latter part of May and early June), observations and collections
had to be confined to areas adjacent to the railroad stations. Though
the trip was extended as far west as Evanston, most of the time was
spent within the Eed Desert proper, at Green River, Point of liocks,
Bitter Creek, Eed Desert Station, Wamsutter, and Fort Steele.

While working under the commission above referred to, places in the
desert were explored more or less thoroughly durijig July and again
during the latter part of August and early September. Creston,
Wamsutter, Bitter Creek, Point of Rocks, Rock Springs, and Green
River served as bases from Avhich contiguous territory was investi-
gated, and together they gave a representative series of the forage
plants on an east and west line. To obtain an equally representative
series on a north and south line two expeditions Avere made. The north-
ern part of the desert was investigated by a Journey from Point of
Rocks to South Butte, Fifteen Mile Springs, and Black Rock Butte.
As at each of these platjes there are s[)rings, whde the intervening
country is typical of the plains portion, these collections are fairly rep-
resentalive of the northern portion of the region.

To similarly investigate the southern half of the desert, a Journey was
made from Rock Si)rings by way of Cooper's ranch to Rife's ranch on
North Vermilion Creek, the location of a former post-ottice called Ver-
milion. This is about 5J miles fnmi Rock S])rings, aiul between the
two places there is no usable water except at the Cooi)er ranch, which
serves as the "halfway place" in making the Journey. Mr. Rife's
ranch is located just on the border of tiie desert in the foothills of
Pine IMountain, on either side of which stand tlie low, wooded, Bishop
and DiaTnond mountains.

While making the ranch headquarters a few days were spent inves-
tigating the forage plants of the adjacent hills and mountains, extend-

11

iug- the observations south to the Colorado- Wyoming line. Here was
found the region of the ideal summer pasture, an area which those who
depend upon the desert for winter forage utilize for summer range.

The return to Rock Springs was made by another route, the midway
watering place being at "The Gap," a pass through a range of hills.
This journey, both going and returning, was made so leisurely as to
afford ample opportunity for collecting and observation. This glimpse
of the rich summer range to the southwest of the desert made it desir-
able that more should be known of the forage which fattens for the
autumn markets so much of the stock whose winter range is in the
desert. Accordingly, observations and collections, both east and west,
were made. For points west, Evanston and Granger were selected,
and were visited in late July and again in late August and early Sep-
tember. For points east, some localities in the Medicine Bow Moun-
tains of Albany County and in the Sierra ]\Iadre Mountains of Carbon
County, were chosen for investigation. Outfitting for this latter work
at Laramie, the first three weeks of August were devoted to the inves-
tigation, resulting in large and interesting collections.

A knowledge of the forage of the summer range adjacent to the Red
Desert is interesting and valuable from the fact that the floras of the
two areas are complementary to each other, each rendering the other
available by giving range forage througliout the year to the stock of
the region. IJecause of clinuitic and vegetal conditions one is unsuita-
ble during tliat part of the year when the other is at its best.

LOCATION AND EXTENT OF THE RED DESERT.

The area originally designated by the name Red Desert is but a small
part of what is now considered as within its boundaries (see PI. I, fig. 1).
The name was first applied to a tract, ])ossibly less than 15 by 20
miles in extent, characterized by the peculiar red clay soil of the
Wasatch Eocene formation. Xear the center of this limited but really
red desert area we find the side track and section house on the Union
Pacific bearing the designation '' Red Desert."

The larger Red Desert as now understood includes, however, all that
arid section of salt-impregnated soil in southern Wyoming, in which
the salt-sages predominate, and which, on account of the absence of
suitable stock water, can only be used for winter pasture. The stock
owner who speaks of his stock '' feeding" (not " grazing") in the Red
Desert uses the name of the region in this comprehensive sense.

This region includes, when bounded in this way, a well-marked plant
formation or area. It may be said to extend from the Platte blufts
on the east to the Green River blufts on the west; from the northern
limit of Sweetwater County to the hills and mountains separating Colo-
rado and Wyoming on the south. Geographically, then, it is situated
between latitudes 41° and 42° 20' north and longitudes 107° to 10}>o
30' west. Excluding from this rectangle the southwest corner, which

12

is fairly well watered, tbere still remains a tract approximately 85 by
130 miles in extent, embracing more than 11,000 scjuare miles, an area
mncli larger than the State of Massachusetts. This vast area is
included in that part of Sweetwater County east of Green liiver and
certain portions of Carbon County west from the Platte.

TOPOGRAPHY.

The Red Desert is a high, undulating ]ilain or plateau, crossed and
intersected at intervals by low ranges of liills (PI. 1, fig. 2). Occasional
buttes occur, standing sentinel over the groui^s of hills that rim in the
shallow basins or form the zigzag blufts of the many dry draws or the
infrequent creeks.

Far toward the northern boundary one sees the large, isolated butte
known as Steamboat Mountain, and beyond this, on the horizon's rim,
Antelope Hills, Green Mountains, and 1^'erris Mountiiins. This series,
extending from east to west, forms the watershed on the south side of
Sweetwater liiver and the northern boundary of the desert. To the
north of the railroad are the Leucite Hills. IJlack Rock Butte and
Orendo Butte are well known landmarks. Toward the east, as viewed
from the heart of the desert, no relief appears, unless, perchance, a
little toward the north one sees the tops of the Seminole Mountains.
The southern boundary is made by ranges of hills and occasional
wooded mountains, the view of which, however, is intercejited by the
high blurt's that border the narrow valleys. On the western border,
in the Green River bluffs, there is scenery of no mean type. Here
buttes, long famed, overlook a valley that has had a reputation for
grandeur and pictures! pieness for more tlian half a century.

Crossing the desert from north to south, east of the center, is the
height of land — the watershed of the continent Here are parted the
waters of the Platte and the Green, liowing, respectively, toward
the Atlantic and Pacific. The railroad intersects this line near Cres-
ton, the exact point being marked by a signboard announcing this
fact.

From an altitude of 7,0.j8 feet at Creston, the land slopes away grad-
ually toward the east and toward the west, but probably the average
altitude for the whole region, if one takes into account the increased
altitudes both in the northern and southern jiortions, is not far from
7,000 feet. The lowest altitudes are found in the narrow, bluff-bordered
valley of Bitter Creek, which (PI. II, fig. 1), with an elevation of (;,7(K)
feet at Bitter Creek Station, drojis to (i,077 feet at its junction with
Green River near the town of that name.

GEOLOGY.'

The geology of the Red Desert is so varied that it is almost imi)os-
sible to give a suitable brief descrijjtion. Considering that the desert

' The aiillior is iiidcOited to Prof. W. ('. Kiiij^ht for this summary of the geological
features of Ibu lied Desert.

13

extends from the llawliiis uplift west to the Green Eiver, and from the
Colorado line north to the bluffs south of the Sweetwater Eiver, it can
best be described as follows : In the western portion there is an island-
like mass of Cretaceous rocks surrounded by Eocene Tertiary beds.
The Cretaceous exposure has been caused by an anticlinal fold whose
western limit is some distance north of Salt Wells, and which extends
in a southern direction nearly to the State line. The exposed core of
this fold belongs to the Fort Pierre group, around which are extensive
beds of Fox Hills and Laramie formations. (Ju the east Hank of this
fold are the coal mines at Point of Pocks, Hallville, and Black Buttes;
on the west are the celebrated coal mines at Rock Springs. To the
west of Rock Springs the (ireen River Eocene ( ?) lies conformable
ui)on the Larjimie.

The Green River beds are made uj) of shales that are cut by deep
and almost inaccessible canyons. The canyon of the Green River is
at some points more than 1,000 feet deep.

From Black Buttes eastward there is a synclinal basin that is cov-
ered with Wasatch and Bridger Eocene, beyond which to the east the
Laramie outcrops and extends from the State line north to Green
Mountain, forming the eastern bouiulary of the desert.

The Tertiary rocks covering the basins are quite level, and only form
bluffs and escarpments occasionally along the railroad. To the north
the country is level for from 30 to 40 miles to where it is hemmed in
by high and precipitous bluffs. This rough country extends along the
entire northern border. In the northwestern portion the country is
very broken, and the castle-like buttes rise to a height of 2,000 to 3,000
feet above the level country.

Oregon Butte is a famous old landmark, and is in reality a mountain
made by erosion.

South of the railroad the country is also broken, but is in no way
comi^arable with the northern border.

Another interesting feature is the eruptive overflows in the Creta-
ceous rocks some 12 or 15 miles north and west of Point of Rocks.
The main eruptive mass is known as the Leucite Hills, but there are
numerous outlying elevations, such as Pilot Butte, Flat Top, and
Black Rock Butte.

SOILS.

The soil of the Red Desert differs materially in the different parts of
the region. It is, however, little more than the geological formations
would indicate. Probably all the soils of the region must be charac-
terized as saline, but the absolute amount of salts present in any par-
ticular locality depends to a great extent upon the conformation of the
surface. Through long-continued processes of leaching some forma-
tions have lost and others have gained in salt content. Flats and
basin-like depressions, receiving the drainage from the slopes, have
become more and more heavily impregnated. The rainfall is too limited

14

to carry mucli of this salt away, so it is found incrnstiiig" the banks of
the creeks and the margins and beds of the dry or sliallow lakes.
Some of the abrupt slopes where lieaA^y winter snowdrifts lie are fairly
free from injurious salts, and, judging from the a>ppearance of the vege-
tation, have nearly normal mountain soil. Almost all the soils are
poor in humus.

The character of the soil as determined by constituents and water
content gives five fairly distinctive formations. These may be desig-
nated and characterized under the following divisions:

Flains soils. — Surface more or less undulating, hence fairly well
drained and losing slowly some of the soluble salts; soil consisting of
clay, gravel, or sand, or these mixed in various i)roportions. Strictly
speaking, it is not a true plain, but undulating or even hilly, with long
gentle slopes leading to the basins and ravines. It includes all the
land with sutticient slope for drainage.

AlJcali soils. — Depressions or basins without drainage and flats adja-
cent to creek beds; salt constituents increasing; soil, a mixture of fine
clay and sand with the salts.

Paludal soils. — Marshy bogs about springs and the margins of some
of the few creeks; bogs of all characters from nearly fresh to highly
saline or mineralized.

Snowdrift soils. — The draws and abrupt slopes where snow accunui-
lates and lies till late spring or early summer; gravelly or sandy soil,
often of a loamy character, due to the considerable amount of decom-
posing vegetation.

Cedar Bluffs soils. — More or less abrupt slopes of shale, sandstone,
or sand; soil inferior, but fairly free from salts; hence a somewhat
varied, though stunted, vegetation.

COMPOSITION OF ALKALI IN RED DESERT SOIL.

The analyses^ of some representative soils from the desert show that
they are among the most pronounced of the so called alkali soils, and
that the principal salts are sodium chloride and sodium sulphate, while
sodium carbonate, or black alkali, is not wholly absent.

The following analysis of soil for the alkali contents from the desert
21 miles northwest of llawlins may be taken as fairly representative
of the better soils of the Ked Desert in general :

Alkali (water-soluble a.ilts), 0.12 per ceut of soil.

Composition of alkali:

I'er oent.

.Sodiuin chloride 18. 5

Sodium sulphate :i7. 1

Calcium sulphate 35. 0

Magnesium sulphate 9. 4

100.0

' The author is indebted to Prof. E. E. Slosson, chemist of the Wyoming Experiment
Station, for the analyses, and to Professors IJutVuni and Kuight for one each of the
samples.

15

A sample from Bitter Creek flats (second bottom land, on which salt-
sages flourish) shows tlie following composition :

Alkali (water-soluble salts), 0.<% per cent of soil.

Composition of alkali :

Per <-.ent.

Sodinni chloride 74. 1

Sodium sulphate 25. 9

100.0
On tlie first bottom or low banks of Bitter Creek, on which Atriplex
pabularis, Agropyron tenerwn, Chrysoiliamnus lini/olius, and one or two
species of Jnncus and Scirpus flourish, we find a much greater salt
content, as the following analysis shows:

Alkali (water-soluble salts), 8.67 per cent of soil.

Composition of alkali:

Per cent.

Sodium chloride 6. 44

Sodium sulphate 83. 12

Calcium sulphate 5. 39

Magnesium sulphate 3. 35

Iron and aluiuinum 1 . 70

100. 00
As indicating the presence and amount of sodium carbonate, the fol-
lowing analysis of a sjimple from Orendo Butte will be of interest. The
ground from which this was taken undoubtedly has its counterpart in
many other localities in the desert:

Alkali (water-soluble salts), 7.20 per cent of soil.

Composition of alkali :

Per <'ci)t.

Sodium chloride 4. 08

Sodium sulphate 50. 41

Sodium carbonate 45. 51

100. 00
Without giving any more of the analyses in detail, it may be stated
that the foregoing do not represent the soils in which the largest
amounts of alkali are present and vegetation still existing. In the
bed of a dry pond a species of H^cirpus was growing where the surface
soil contained more than GO per cent of soluble salts.

CLIMATE.

No reliable data are at hand from any locality within the desert
either as to temperature or precipitation. On this account only general
statements can be made, based upon limited personal observation and
such information as could be gathered from the residents of the region.

TEMPERATURE.

The temperature is certainly very variable, rising during the long,
clear days of summer to almost tropical heat and falling at night nearly
or quite.to the freezing point. The dry, rarefied air of these high alti-
tudes permits the free passage of the sun's rays, so that during still days

16

tlie plains and hills are subjected to almost blistering beat. IJadiation
bein<i- equally unobstructed, all objects soon cool at night.

The high temperature of the day is not oppressive, for it is the direct
rays of the sun rather than the stifling heat of a moisture laden
atmosphere. Since the atmosphere itself becomes warm only as its
moisture accumulates heat in latent form, high temperatures are not
reached except in direct sunlight.

This great ineciuality between day and night temperatures is quite as
pronounced in winter as in summer. Very low temperatures are often
reached, —40'^ V. being prol)ab]y not unknown. The winter, while in
some respects not severe, is long; the summer proper, short. Few, if
any, months are wholly exempt from frost, and many a hard freeze
occurs during the growing season, which follows close upon the melting
of the snows in spring.

PRECIPITATION.

The amount of moisture that the region receives is on tlie whole
(juite small. During the summer months very little rainlall occurs.
Bright, sunny days are the rule. Light showers occasionally fall, but in
a few hours afterwards there is little trace of moisture. At this
altitude, under the inlluence of the usual winds and the unobscured
sun, the evaporation is simply enormous.

At long intervals occur rainstorms of greater magnitude, sometimes
reaching cloudburst proportions. The area covered by them isoften as
limited as their force is violent. The downpour along the higher ranges
of hills and bluffs becomes flood-like. Torrents rush down the slopes,
carrying everything before them, into the usually dry ravines and creek
beds that for a few hours overflow with a fluid so turbid that the pro-
verbially nnnldy waters of the Missouri would seem clear in compari-
son. From this deej), cream-yellow paste there is deposited upon the
low banks of the creeks a layer of silt that is pasty and slippery
almost beyond belief. This bakes and cracks into hard, irregular
bricks, not drying up like ordinary iiind. The showers are of little
benefit to the locality; the slopes are so abrupt and the vegetation of
such a nature that very little of the nunsture is held back long enongh
to penetrate the soil.

By far the most valuable and available sources of water supply are
the snows that may occur at almost any time during the year, uidess it
be during one or two of the sumuu'r months. They occur rarely during
the early fall, occasionally during the winter, and more frequently
during the spring months. These usually melt so gradually that all
their moisture, except such as is lost by evaporation, flnds its way into
the soil.

Especially liel])rul to the vegetation of the desert are the snows of
late spring. These lie like a wet blanket over everything for a few days
at a time, completely saturating the soil and providing an abundance
of moisture for the rapidly developing vegetation.

17

Sometimes, usually iu late winter or enrly spring, but liable to come
at any time, there occur snowstorms of great severity — blizzards wbich
last from one to three days. Inasmuch as these are accompanied or
followed by high winds, the plains or level stretches are soon blown
bare, the snow being i)iled in great drifts under the brow' of some range
of hills, in the many draws and ravines, and to the leeward of patches
of sage-brush and grease-wood.

WATER SUPPLY.

To say that the water supply is very limited and of poor quality is
hardly necessary. The name of the region and the names of its creeks
tell the tale without comment. Bitter Creek, with its tributaries, con-
stitutes the drainage system. This creek originates in the height of
land in the southeastern portion, takes a westward course, and, after a
tortuous Journey of probably 75 miles, empties into Green River.

Probably at no time is it quite dry, but in no part of its course, except
iu flood time, is it so wide that one can not in many places step from
bank to bank. Its only tributary from the north is Killpacker Creek,
while from the south it receives Little Bitter Creek and South Bitter
Creek. The latter is very generally called Salt Wells Creek, but in
character of water is very similar to the others, and in size almost
equals the main stream.

In the northern part of the desert a few other small creeks originate,
but they are all entirely lost in the sandy depressions toward which
they flow or in the nearly dry alkali lakes which they feed. The names
of these are suggestive, such as Lost Creek, Alkali Creek, Lost Soldier
Creek, Separation Creek, and others nearly as significant.

As may be expected, the waters of these creeks are practically satu-
rated solutions of the soluble mineral ingredients found in the soils of
the tributary basins. At no time either during flood or drought are
their waters suitable for domestic use.

There are, however, within the region a number of springs, or rather
groups of springs, but these are often at great distances from each
other. The waters of most of them are of a mineral character, iron and
sulphur being of most frequent occurrence. These latter, with the few
non mineral springs, furnish the available potable waters of the region,
at present at least, with one exception noted below.

If the surface waters are bad, the artesian waters are not much bet-
ter. The Union Pacific Railroad Company has put down wells at sev-
eral points between Rawlins and Creen River, some of which furnish
an abundance of water for steam puri)()ses, but so far only one has been
found suitable for domestic use. This one, located at Point of Rocks,
furnishes an almost unlimited supply of " good " sulphur water. It is
the only source of water supply for all stations between Rawlins and
Rock Springs, the latter securing its water from Green River by pipe
line. To a score of stations and section houses, covering 121 miles of

3018— No. 13 2

18

the road, water is bauled in cars and emptied into cisterns, from which
it is drawn as needed. When exposed to the air it loses to some extent
its snlphnrons odor and taste. In this region the emigrant trail runs
])arallel to the railroad, and the dusty traveller and the thirsty horses
refresh themselves at the oft-recurring and generous cisterns.

EXTENT OF SETTLEMENT.

The population of the <lesert is small, and from necessity will not for
some time at least be greatly increased. Outside of the towns and
stations on the Union Pacific Railroad there are not in all this 11,000
square miles more than 200 inhabitants.

Nearly the whole population of the region is found in immediate
proximity to the railroad. To this population the railroad and com-
mercial and official interests, together Mith the coal-mining industry,
give employment in large part. However, a number of men who have
stock interests of greater or lesser magnitude in the country make
their homes in the towns. The ren)nant of population outside of these
is found upon widely separated ranches, which are scattered over the
desert where the occasional springs of usable water permit, or, more
frequently, along its borders where streams of fresh water come down
from the hills, making possible the well irrigated and successful ranch.

At a very few of the springs that are not too distant from the to.\ns
there have been established highly successful and i)rofitable gardens
and truck farms. The proihicts of these oases find a ready market in
Kock Springs and other points upon the railroad.

The increase in the population of the desert will be largely an increase
in the size of the towns. While the range interests of the region are
capable of considerable expansion, yet those who may engage in the
stock industry will, for many reasons, more fre(iuently make their
homes in the towns than upon the borders of the desert, remote from
the conveniences of civilization.

PLANT FORMATIONS.

The region shows no well-marked plant fornmtious or areas except
such as are bounded by soil conditions; that is, the character of the
vegetation of one ])artof the desert as comi)ared with another, depends
upon soil constituents and amount of water. Considered from this
standpoint, the following groui)ing nuiy be serviceable in pointing out
the characteristic vegetation :

VEGETATION OF THE DIVISIONS OF THE DESERT.

J'lains division.— Vudtiv this «lesignation may be included nearly
three-fourths of the entire desert. TIk^ vegetation here is easily dis-
tinguished from that of the rest of the desert. The most characteristic
vegetation is the common sngebrusii (Arlemisia tridnitdtn), wiiicli grows
in all the soils which aie less strongly impregnated with salt. With

19

tliis are other sages, most important among whicli is Bnd brush { Arte-
misia spiiicscens). Altogether the most valuable plant, however, is
Kuttall's Salt-sage {Atriplex nutfalHi). This constitutes a large part
of the forage of the region. With the foregoing must be mentioned
Winter Vnt [Eurolid lanata), Shad Scale {Atriplex conferti folia), the
Ivabbit- brushes, or Green -sages {(Jhri/.sothamnus), and a few other
shrubby plants {Tetradymia, etc.). Besides tliis shrubby vegetation
there are a number of grasses that form a somewhat scattering growth.
Most prominent among these are the Wheat-grasses [Agropyron) and
Indian Millet {Eriocoma cuspidaia).

Alkali division. — ISText in iini)ortance are the i)lants on the strongly
alkaline soil, the land immediately bordering the creeks, the low flats
adjacent, and the shallow dry lake beds. Here we find sagebrush
largely rei)]aced by Grease- wood {Sarcohatus), and with this a great
admixture of Salt sages {Atriplex) and a few species of rushes and
sedges.

P(dudal division. — This includes the oc(;asional spring bogs and creek
marshes where occurs a dense growth of grasses, sedges, and rushes,
including a large number of species.

Snowdrift division. — This comi)rises the areas of permanent winter
snows, that is, the deep "draws" and abrupt slopes where snowdrifts
pile upon snowdrifts. Here, besides Sage brush, are found occasional
clumps of Choke-cheiTy, Service berry. Mountain mahogany {Ccrco-
earpi(.s), etc., besides a great profusion of herbai-eous vegetation,
including many valuable grasses and sedges.

Cedar-Bluffs division. — On some of the higher or at least the more
abrupt hills and slopes occurs a scattering and stunted growth of
juiiii)er, a scraggy shrub or small much-brancihed tree. Scattered
among the junipers are various small shrubs and occasional patches

of tine grass.

DISTINCT TYPES OF VEGETATION.

In the lu'eceding outline no attempt has been nuide to draw attention
to any except the more enduring and therefore the vegetation of most
economic importance. To understand the Hora of the region one must
consider two somewhat distinct types:

Persistent vegetation. — Those plants which are more or less in evi-
dence throughout the year.

Transient vegetation. — All those plants which s])ring up each year
from seed or from such underground parts as bulbs, tubers, or root-
stocks. Most of the plants of this character spring up (piickly, blos-
som, bear fruit, wither, and disappear for the rest of the year. Tiiese
plants far outnumber the persistent type. This transient vegetation
follows close upon the retreating snows. The warm sun of the many
bright days of spring and the grateful moisture coax out a few forms in
Ai)ril, while in May the wild mustards, beans, chickweeds, composites

20

of many kinds, Pentsteuions and Eriogonums troop forth in great profu-
sion on all the slopes. These, however, soon succumb to the unob-
scured summer sun. J>y the end of June n)ost of them are dead and
blown away, only a few seed stalks lingering to tell the tale of what
has been.

FORAGE.

The Eed J)esert is distinctively a stock region. Outside of the few-
favored spots kept fresh by springs, there are no farms or gardens.

From the 1st of June till the 1st of J^ovember the region is practi-
cally devoid of stock of all kinds. With the coming of the snows the
herds and flocks are worked back into the desert from the summer pas-
tures in the hills and mountains. Through the winter and spring
months thousands of head feed upon this rougli forage, the snowdrifts
furnishing the water for all. The sheep herder in his wagon, also
dependent upon the snows, guides his flock from district to district as
new pasturage is needed. By the time the stock is taken to the sum-
mer range the desert is barren indeed. Grasses, sage-brush, salt sage,
white sage, rabbit brush, and even cedar boughs have been grazed so
close that every edible sprig is gone. •

AMOUNT OF FORAGE.

The number of head of stock that the vegetation of a district will
support gives some idea of the amount of forage produced. While giv-
ing no facts in pounds or tons, yet relative estimates may be secured.
8in-ce the de.sert neither occui)ies the whole of auy one county nor is
confined altogether to a single county, no statistics separate from those
of the several counties which are in i)art within the de.sert can be given.
The desert includes a large part Sweetwater County, a county some-
what smaller tliau the whole of the desert. Tlie following ollicial fig-
ures for this county, showing the number of head of stock supported,
will, therefore, be a fair estimate for the desert as a whole. The figures
are given for three years, in order to show what may be expected from
its forage one year with another.

Stock supported in Sweetwater County.

Year.

Horses.

Mules.

Cattle.

Sheep.

1895

1,918
2, 030
1,640

92

246
72

2,802
2,227
1,882

158, 050
170, 290
166, 843

]8'.IG

1897

Besides this stock, there .ire trailed through this county each year
from l.')(),()(M) to L'OO.OOO sliec]). These are driven al(»ng slowly, the i)as-
sage i)i' some of the Hocks through the <'ounty occupying weeks.

During the winter months the adjoining counties, especially Carbon
County, and the adjoining iStates — Colorado, Utah, and Idaho— gre.itly

21

swell the total of the stock that feeds within the desert. Flocks of
sheep are brought in from all directions, and while of these there has
not up to the present been any official record, yet enough is known to
indicate that the estimates of the most conservative sheepmen are too
low rather than too high. These place the total number of sheep in
the desert, during some five months of the year, at 3()0,000 to 500,000.
Some estimates for the winter of 1890-97 were as high as 800,000.

Of the surrounding counties, Carbon- County sustains the closest
relation to the Red Desert. A portion of the county is included in it,
and its large flocks of sheep either feed in the desert proper or on
vegetation similar to that of the desert during the winter season. The
following official returns show what this vegetation will support.

*S7oc/i: supported in Carhon County.

Year.

Horses.

Cattle.

Sheep.

Ig95

6, 248
6,511
6,565

22, 750
20, 991
18, 992

288, 115
354, 804
366, 521

1896

1897

The figures from the two adjoining counties, Fremont and Uinta,
will give further evidence on the question, for flocks from these also
feed at times within the desert. To make clearer the relation of the
Red Desert to the stock interests the returns from these counties are
given.

Stock supported in Fremont and Uinta counties.
FEEMONT COUNTY.

Year.

Horses.

Cattle.

Sheep.

1895

9,700
9,858
r,, 269

27, 279

31, 957

9,770

93, 300
114, 164
137,765

1896

1897 .

UINTA COUNTY.

Year.

Horses.

Cattle.

Sheep.

1895

5, 521
4,964
4,803

19,313
18,923
17,577

157,435
202, 336
212, 829

1896

1QQ7 -

It should be noted that the large loss in cattle and horses for Fre-
mont County in 1897 is due to the fact that the recent establishment
of Bighorn County has transft-rred to it much stock that prior to 1897
was assessed in Fremont.

The figures given for Carbon, Fremont, and Uinta counties are the
actual assessments, and do not cover a considerable number that prob-
ably escape enumeration each year, nor those flocks temporarily in
these counties as " trail" sheep.

22

QUALITY OF FORAGE.

The quality of forage, as Judged by results, is of the best. Horses,
cattle, and sheep do well. If the winters are not too severely cold nor
the snow too deep, all kinds of stock not only subsist upon these plants
but actually remain in good Hesh throughout the winter. Of the
grasses that cure upon the ground the Wheat-grasses are the most
abundant, and these have long been known to possess high nutritive
value. It is, however, the shrubby vegetation that furnishes the larg-
est amount of valuable feed. Such plants are much more succulent
than appearances would indicate. (Irowing on strongly saline or alka-
line soils, the Salt-sages and many other plants take up these salts in
such quantity that one readily detects them on tasting even a small
fragment of a leaf.

Stock feeding upon such plants secures the necessary amount of salt
from the food, so that the salting of stock that must be resorted to dur-
ing the mouths when the animals are feeding upon the mountain grasses
is wholly unnecessary.

MEANS FOR IMPROVEMENT OF THE FORAGE.

How to improve the quality and increase the quantity of available
forage in the Red Desert is a most diflicult problem. The soil condi-
tions and water su])ply are such that not much may be hoped for
through the expenditure of ordinary effort and means for the desert
as a whole. Nor will any sudden or spasmodic ettbrt suflice. Only
forces and plans operating for a number of years can be expected to
give noticeably great results.

It is very evident, however, that the forces now at work are tending
toward improvement. According to the most reliable sheep men the
same areas that twenty years ago would only support one sheep will
now better support from tliree to live. This they attribute, to gain
in the strength of the soil due to the accumulating manure. It seems
probable that a more potent factor i.s found in the following: The
vegetation chiefly depended upon for forage is composed of the large
number of small shrubs of many kinds previously mentioned. The cut-
ting down to the ground of such vegetation enormously increases the
number of annual shoots. From winter to winter this shrubby vegeta-
tion has l)een browsed down (doser and closer to the woody bases of
the plants, until now the tender annual shoots are produced in much
greater abundance. The effectiveness of this browsing is, of course,
dependent ui)on the region being used as a winter pasture only, giv-
ing time for growth and recovery each summer.

Something can (;ertaiidy be done in a small but eftective way in the
vicinity of those ranches that are now found within tlie region, or such
as may yet be located. Salt-sages or other alkali-enduring vegetation,
if the ground be seeded to them, can be made to yield much more

23

heavily thau at preseDt. For this purpose either native or valuable
introduced forms (discussed elsewhere in this report) may be used.

The native grasses also are worthy of trial. The writer has seen
wonderful results from seeding the ground to sojne of these, especially
the wheat-grasses, and this, too, where the water used for irrigation
was far from the best and the ground strong with alkali. Further-
more, the increase in the water supply is not quite hopeless. The
region contains many natural basins in which, by the expenditure of
a little labor in the construction of dams, much of the water from the
accumulated winter snowdrifts might be saved for use later in the
season.

On the outskirts of the desert, the problem is much the same as in
the greater arid west. Those measures which may be successfully
introduced in other localities will be equally successful here.

CHARACTERISTIC DESERT PLANTS.

A question needing full investigation is the relation of plants to
alkali or other salts in the soil. Practically all that we know is that
some species have adapted themselves to endure or even thrive in soil
containing greater or less amounts of various salts. Different species
even in the same genus behave very differently in this respect; ibr
example, Cheiiopodium albion L. seeks a soil free from salts, while for
C. (jlauciim L. there can hardly be too much. If alkali affects a plant
injuriously it seems to do so throughout its entire development. It has
been shown that alkali retards germination or entirely prevents it in
most seeds in direct proportion to the amount of the salt present.' Some
families of plants have adapted themselves to saline soil more tiian
others. Easily first in this respect is the goose-foot family {Clicnopo-
diace(v). To this belong a large number of distinctively alkali plants,
such as the Salt-sages, White Sage, Grease- wood, Russian Thistle, and
Australian Saltbush.

In regard to the question of largest representation by species of the
families of plants found in the desert, the writer found on examining
the collections that the family represented by the largest number of
species is not necessarily the most characteristic of the region. The
obvious vegetation, that which gives character to the landscape, can
be included in a half dozen genera, Artemisia, Tetradymia, Chri/so-
thaniHUs, Atrijdex, Sarcohatm, and Ar/ropyron. Kemove all the plants
belonging to the three families, Gompositcc, Chenopodiacew, and Chutnii-
new, and the region w^ould look like a true desert. Many other families
are better represented in number of species, but the individuals are
either small or scattering, and bear the same relation to the great mass
of vegetation that the occasional weed in a well-tilled field bears to
the main crop.

The plants of the following list are worthy of special note. It is

'Bull. 29, Wyoming I'xperiiuent Stition.

24

intended to include only tliose tliat are of first importance either
because of the large amount of forage produced or because of tbeir
great nutritive value and those that give promise of good results under
cultivation. They are here arranged rather in the order of importance
for the two regions: (1) Vegetation of the desert, or winter, range (see
PI. 1); and (2) vegetation of the hill country, or summer, range (see PI.
IT, tig. 2).

VEGETATION OF THE DESERT, OR W^INTER, RANGE.
(1) The Salt-Sages.— The salt-sages rank first in the amount of for-
age produced, and, judging by the number of cattle supi)orted on
the winter pastures and the reported fine condition of the stock,
these plants possess high nutritive value.
NuTTALL's Salt-sage {AtripUx nuitalUi S. Wats.).— Of the several
species, this stands first in the matter of distribution. It is found
nearly everywhere except on the most pronouncedly alkali ground.
It belongs not only to this desert and this State but is the most
generally distributed salt-sage of the entire arid west. It is the
sheepman's most highly-prized winter forage, and certainly here
furnishes one half of the whole supply. Sheep thrive upon it both
when it is green and also in the winter after it has cured upon the
ground. It is a perennial with a woody base, calculated to endure
severe pasturing and much trampling. It is each year eaten down
to the ground, leaving only the woody base. It produces seed in
abundance, which is greedily eaten, and this probably accounts for
its high nutritive value. It seems unsuited for cultivation, except
where a i)erennial ])asture is desired, on account of its woody char-
acter and slow growth, but where well established it is a source
of much feed for all kinds of stock and should not be carelessly
destroyed.
Nelson's Salt-sage {Airiplex pabnlaris A. Nels.).— This new species
seems to be a form of great promise as a forage plant. Like the
preceding, it is a perennial, but the woody base is almost wholly
underground. The herbaceous stems are i)roduced in much greater
abundance, forming often a close, continuous, erect growth. So far
as known it is not widely distributed, being confined to strongly
saline areas, such as the Hats adjacent to Bitter Creek and its tribu-
tarii's and the dry beds of alkali basins. It fruits freely, makes a
considerable annual growth, and is certainly worthy of trial with
a view to forming a permanent i)asture on otherwise valueless
alkali ground. Its habit of growth would also make it i>ossihle to
harvest it by the methods applicable to the grasses. Slieepmen
unite in ])ronouiiciiig it prime forage.
TuMnLTN(^ Salt-sage {Airiplex rolutans A, Nels., PI. Ill, fig. 2).—
This heretofore overlooked annual may prove a more valuable ]>lant
for certain alkali soils than any of the f-ireign species that have
been so highly recommended, it is a plant of rank growth, and

25

wheu not crowded, forms in one season a compact subspherical
mass 3 feet or more in diameter. If left to mature on tlie ground
the slender tap-root breaks in tlie autumn and tlie plant becomes
a tumble-weed. After that time it bas probably little nutritive
value. If it is ever utilized as a forage plant it must be harvested
shortly before maturity. If closely grown this would not be diffi-
cult with ordinary machinery. It produces a great abundance of
seed that could be thrashed out with very little trouble.
Spiny Salt-sage {Atriplcx confcrti/oUa S. Wats,). — To see this spiny
shrub one would hardly think of it as a valuable form of forage,
yet sheepmen look upon it as such. They say there is no fault to
be found with it except that "there is not enough of it." It is popu-
larly known as Shad scale. It belongs peculiarly to the desert
region, where it is eagerly sought in late spring for its tender shoots
and leaves. The large quantities of leaves and fruits produced
during the summer months are mostly dropped before autumn, but
are collected by the winds into little piles under the shrub or in
the little hollows of the plain. These the sheep eagerly seek, so
that where a band of sheep has fed it is difficult to find either
leaves or fruit.

(2) The Sage-Brushes {Artemisia). — The amount of sage-brush con-
sumed in the desert is simply amazing. Sheepmen and herders
say that for sheep a straight sage-brush diet at certain times seems
to "meet a long felt want." Whole bands will leave all other for-
age and browse sage brush for a day or two at a time, after which
they will not touch it again for some days, or even weeks. This is
especially true of the common sage-brush {Artemisia tridentata
Nutt.), while some of the other species are so much sought after at
all times as to need special mention.

Bud-brush, Bud-sage {Artemisia spinescens Eaton). — This is the sheep-
man's "bud-brush." It grows to the height of only a few inches
from strong, woody, underground parts. It puts forth numerous
leafy stems, profusely covered with clusters of yellowish flowers.
The large, bud-like clusters of flowers have suggested the common
name. It develops early, being at its best by the end of May. It
is said that sheep run hastily from clump to clump in search of
this succulent morsel.

Silvery-sage {Artemisia cana Pursh). — This in quality probably does
not differ materially from the common sagebrush, but, in propor
tion to area occupied, it produces much more forage. It is found
chiefly in the alluvial soil on the banks of streams. Its forage
value is due to the production each year of a very large number of
long, slender, tender shoots, which are eaten at intervals, as before
stated.

(3) Wheat-Grasses { A gropi/roti).— For quality these grasses would
take first place in the desert forage, but the amount is quite limited.

26

Tliey cure readily on the ground, and remain more nearly intact
throughout the winter months than any of the other grasses of the
region. The species of most importance are given as follows:
Slender Wheat-grass {Agropyron tenernm Yasey). — This wheat-
grass is very generally distributed throughout the area. It is
found in all parts of the desert, as well as in the better soils of
the summer range. It grows in dry, poor soil, but thrives better

in good soil, and responds
readily to cultural advan-
tages. A moderate
amount of water in irri-
gation produces best re-
sults on this grass. It
will hardly stand flooding
at all. For pasture pur-
[>oses there are grasses
that will endure more
hard treatment than this,
but as a meadow grass it
must be given first place.
It often forms a close,
uniform growth that
yields as much per acre
as an average field of
timothy. Considering its
high nutritive value, no
more profitable grass can
be found than this for the
desert region, especially
on saline soil and where
the (J uantitj^ of available
water is limited. While
not seeding very freely,
the re(iuisite amount for
sowing can easily be ob-
tained after the first crop
has been harvested. It
is easily thrashed out in
a machine, or maybe Hailed out if no better method is at hand.
Seed of tliis grass is now on the market.
Colorado Blue-stem, Western Wheat-grass {Af/ropi/ron sjiica-
tioit S. & S., tig. 1). — This grass is (capable of enduring drought to
a remarkable degree. Naturally, however, it nuikes a very sparse
growth. Distributed rather generally throughout the region, it is
found occupying the driest banks ami bench lands. It is capable
of rank and dense growth under favorable conditions, as sho\\ n in

Fl(i. 1. — Wcstcni Wlicat Kiass {Aijinjiiiron njn'ratinii)
I'luiily };lmii('S; b, llori'is.

",

27

irrigated meadows, where it occurs as the principal grass. r>est
results will be secured on second bottom lauds with moderate
water. Flooding should be avoided.

(4) Indian Millet {Eriocoma cusimJata Xutt,, lig. 2), — The value of this
grass has been greatly underrated. It is not only widely distributed,
but manages to make a fair growth in desert places, where other
grasses are almost wholly absent. It develops early and keeps in
fair condition throughout the season. Under favorable conditions
it grows to a good size,

but even dwarf s])('cimens
fruit freely. A 1 1 k i 1 1 d s of
stock relish it, but horses
are particularly fond of
the seeds, and will go
from bunch to bunch
cropping out the heads.
On sterile and stony
ground it may prove more
profitable than any other
that could be sown.

(5) Giant Rye-Grass (/•;///-
mns eondensatus Presl). —
This is worthy of note be-
cause of its conspicuous
uess rather than its great
forage value. To the
casual observer this is
the grass that would
characterize certain lo-
calities. It would be
thought of as a part of the
general relief of the re-
gion. Thedensebuiu'hes,
sometimes 5 to 7 feet in
diameter and G feet high,
stand out very promi-
nently on otherwise
naked slopes. It is found
all the way from creek banks to the deep "draws" and slopes
where snowdrifts accumulate. As forage it is eaten to some
extent while young, but becomes unpalatable and harsh as it
matures and cures on the ground. It is considered valuable as
fodder if cut and cured before it matures. In this condition it is
fed to advantage to cattle and horses through the winter months.
Possibly if sown thickly and harvested early it might be profitable
on account of the quantity produced.

Fig.

Indian Millet (Eriaturtiia cuspidata) : a, spike-
let; b, iloret.

28

(6) Desert Juniper [Juniperus lin'ujlitii A. Nels.). — To list a tree of
any cliaracter as a noteworthy forage plant is at least a little
unusual. This scrubby, shrub-like juniper,' or, as it is usually
called, "bluff cedar,'' has, however, saved many a flock of sheep
from extinction. During some of tlie terrible blizzard-like snow-
storms that occasionally occur and last for two or three days the
only available forage consists of the branches and tops of this
Junii)er. The experienced herder keeps worliing the slieep about,
so as to have them on top of the snowdrifts instead of under them.
Gradually a trampled-down yard is formed, which, if it be among
the cedars, will enable him to hold his flock for some days safely.
"Cedar boughs" are not refused under such circumstances, and if
not very nutritious, they at least fill the stomachs of the hungry
animals.

VEGETATION OF THE HILL COUNTRY, OR SUMMER, RANGE.

A complete discussion of the forage of tlie vast area which constitutes
the summer range of the flocks and herds that winter in the desert is
not called for in this report, and would necessitate a more critical
investigation in the field of the jilant formations that characterize the
different areas than they have yet received. Enough is known, how-
ever, to enable one to state the character of the forage with a degree of
certainty.

It may be said then, first of all, that the summer forage is distinct-
ively herbaceous, strikingly in contrast with the more or less shrubby
vegetation of the desert; that it consists primarily of grasses, sedges,
and rushes, in contrast with the woody jflants of the winter range.

The Slimmer range consists of the monntainous and hilly areas on the
outskirts of the desert. It does not include the impenetrable and
rugged fastnesses of the higher ranges, such as the Medicine l>ow, the
Wind Kiver, and the Uinta, but mountains of medium elevation, with
rounded slopes, only partially wooded, and well watered Avith springs
and creeks. The timber upon such is oi)en, or, if dense, is interspersed
with i)arks or meadows of most luxuriant growth. Here is a grove of
quaking asjten, there some scattering i)ines, and yonder a spruce-
covered summit. In the narrow valleys springs and snow-fed stream-
lets are found on whose banks occasional cliim])s ot willow or alder
occur. In tlicse regions grasses flourish as they never do on the
]»]ains. The better soil and the lre<|uent snnunei' showers furnish the
conditions Cor luxuriant growth. Of grnsses there are many genera, of
which the fcjllowing are the more valua))le:

Tiie Spear grasses {Fon) are easily first as to number and value.
After these come a number of groui)s, all of great value, or at least
containing one or more valuable species. Among these are the Brome-
grasses {Bromus), Wheat grasses (Af/ropi/ron), llye-grasses {Eli/mn.s),
Dropseed grasses {tiporohoUis)^ Timothy (I'lilenui), Manna, or Reed,

29

Meadow-grasses {Panicnlar'm)^ Bhie-joiuts ( Galamagrostis), Hair-grasses

{Deschampsia), and Bent grasses (Agrostis).

{D The Spear-Grasses {Poa species). — The Spear-grasses, of which
:here are many valuable species, are most abundant in the hills
and mountains and along water courses, but they are not absent
even in the desert. In looking over the large list of species
secured and the held notes upon them, I find myself unable to fix
upon any one as preeminently the most promising or valuable.
Some have a wide and general distribution, but are of scattering
growth. Others, more local, grow luxuriantly, and for their par-
ticular localities stand first. All must be reckoned as pasture
grasses of first importance. Some are meadow grasses of impor-
tance, especially in native meadows, but for cultivation for hay
greater returns can probably be secured from other kinds of
grasses. Among those of very general distribution may be men-
tioned Bunch-grass (2'oa bneklcydna), Alkali Blue-grass (P. ./w/ici-
folia), Smooth Bunch-grass {P. laevigata Scribn.), Wood-Meadow
grass (P. nemoralis L.), Kentucky Blue-grass {P.pratensis L.). The
last mentioned is undoubtedly native in a large part of the North-
west. In many native meadows and pastures, along water courses,
and in the foothills it forms an important part of the sod, and occa-
sionally makes quite a rank growth. Among the more local but
very valuable Spear-grasses are Western Blue-grass [Poa arida
Vasey), Fowl Meadow-grass {P.Jlava L.), Shiny Bunch-grass (P.
Incida Vasey), Sheldon's Blue grass [P. sheldoniVsksey), Mountain
Meadow-grass (P. rejiexa Vasey & Scribn.), and Wyoming Blue-
grass (P. whceleri Vasey). Of these last P. slieldoni appeared the
most promising, as seen in the field. It is one of the most impor-
tant grasses of this range, forming a large percentage of the forage
on the park meadows among the hills. It is freely eaten by stock
and vseems to hold its own under the severest pasturing.

(2) The Brome-G-rasses [Bromus). — The several species of this genus
are hardly thought of as pasture grasses on account of their rank
growth. Some of the mountain species, however, are valuable as
summer forage, while they are also plants of great i)romise for
meadows. Some of the species are well known and have been suc-
cessfully introduced into many localities. It seems possible, how-
ever, that the best are yet to be introduced. Of the eight species
collected in the area under consideration, a form common in the
Sierra Madre Mountains and their westward extension on the Col-
orado-Wyoming line seemed by far the most promising:

Large Mountain Brome Grass {Bromus multiform Scribn.). —
This is a most striking grass, one that attracts attention at once
in a region where fine grasses are the rule. This is the grass that
characterizes the locality. To the general observer this would be
recalled as the grass not only peculiar to but distinctive of the
region. The miners think of it as the feed that their horses sub-

30

sist upon. It grows upon the hillsides among the fallen timber.
It is hardly abundant enough in any locality to form a continuous
meadow, but if cut would, on account of its size, supply a fair
crop of haj^ Horses eat it with avidity and seem to do well upon
it. They prefer it to the other abundant grasses of the locality.
It was collected at altitudes between 9,000 and 10,000 feet in the
parks and open woods, localities in which vegetation hardly starts
before June, for almost uutil that time snow covers all. In conse-
quence of its habitat it matures late, but if introduced into lower
altitudes it would undoubtedly prove as early as other grasses of
its kind. It grows to a height of 3 to 4 feet, produces an abun-
dance of leaves, and if it would thrive under cultivation as well as
in its native habitat it would give an enormous yield.

(3) Dropseed {S2)orobolii.s dipmipcratHS Scribn.). — This grass grows
along streams, in the foothills, and open parks in the mountains,
and even in some of the draws in the desert. It forms a close
dense sod, especially where it is freely pastured. On mnnjM)ottom
lands it is the prevailing grass. All kinds of stock seek it out, so
that it is difficult to find mature si)eciniens except on inclosed
grounds. It seems that it might be introduced with profit into
most pastures not only in the mountain regions but generally else-
where as well. It might also jnove valuable as a lawn grass in
places where water for irrigation is limited or in lawns that have
to endure much trami)ling. It is possibly a little harsh for this
purpose, but frequent catting would thicken up the sod and reduce
the harshness to a mininum.

(4) Reed Meado^v-Grass {Panicularia americana MacM.). — Among
the several nianna-grasses this seems by far the most valuable for
this region. It is probable that its value as a meadow-grass is not
appreciated. For exceedingly wet ground it must prove especially
desirable. Here is a grass that will stand Hooding. It is adapted
to land that is submerged during the growing season, and only
needs it to be dry in time for harvesting. It is quite abundant in
some localities, and if it were introduced to take the i>lace of the
sedges and rushes that so abound in wet or Hooded meadows there
would be a distinct gain in both quantity and quality of the hay.
On Mr. Jacob Johnson's ranch, where it was particularly observed,
it occupies many acres. It was being mown at the time, and was
accounted one of the most valuable hay grasses. Horses relish it
greatly. They were seen wading in nnul and water to their knees
to secure this when other excellent grasses were superabundant.

(5) Redtop {Af/rosti.s (dlxi L.). — Presumably introduced and undoubt-
edly sown in some meadows, but so widely distributed and in such
out-of the-way ])laces as to iiulicate that it is also indigenous in the
.Stute. It thrives in low, wet ground, and will stand Hooding much
Ix'ttei- tiiiin most of the other valuable grasses. It forms a large
l)ercentage ol the meadow glasses on the l>ear Kiver bottoms. To

31

substitute it for the sedges aud rusbes in tlie meadows of tbe
Laramie river would be tbe part of wisdoni. With this aud the
tall I'eed ]\Ieadow grass the wettest ground could be utilized.
(6j The Sedges [Care.r). — Of this genus the region affords a very-
large number of species. They are of varying- abundance and
value, but it is hard to select, even after observation in the field,
the most profitable. Many of them are cut for hay and certainly
have nutritive value, but they are hardly to be compared to the
better grasses. In nniny fields, however, they have almost re-
jjlaced the grasses owing to over irrigation. The senseless manner
in which the water is applied to some of the grass lands must be
attributed either to ignorance or indifference. Early in the spring,
while the ground is still wet aud cold, the lauds are submerged
and kept in that condition through the season, and are only drained
in order that the mowing machines may be taken into the fields.
A few seasons of this kind of treatment gives the land over to
sedges and rushes and makes it reclaimable with the greatest dif-
ficulty. For lands that are natnrally wet some species of Carex
may be found better adapted than the true grasses, at least in cer-
tain kinds of soil. Among those that are peculiarly adapted for
hay purposes may be named Carex athrostachya Olney, C. /estiva
stricta Bailey, G. lanuginosa Michx., (7. marcida I5oott, C. nehras-
Jcensis Dewey, C. trichocarpa aristata Bailey, and C. utriculata
minor Boott. The dense growth of leaves in C. hinug'Diosa and
C. trichocarpa aristata makes them particularly desirable for hay.
The latter yields enormously in some of the fields on the Laramie
bottoms. For a pasture sedge there is nothing to compare with
Carex media, dejiexa Bailey. It belongs in the mountains, in the
open parks, and on the ridges at 9,000 feet and upward. In such
places it forms close mats several feet across, and these in places
almost touching each other. It grows to only a few inches in
height, bnt produces an abundance of leaves and fruited stems
that are much sought after by stock of all kinds. Where it is
accessible to stock it is hard to find matured, or fruited, speci-
meus. There are forage ])lants of more or less value among the
rushes, the legumes, and in a few other groups, but these Avill be
noticed in their order in the systematic list.

LIST OF THE FORAGE PLANTS OF THE SUMMER RANGE.

The following grasses and forage plants were collected on the sum-
mer range (the hill country bordering the desert) during the season of

1897:

GRASSES.

Pauicum virgatum L. (Switch-grass, fig. 3).— A grass with rather rigid, waud-like,
few-leafetl stems, 20 to 30 inches high, the fruiting pedicels slender, spreading,
the spikes (if few luit lariie seeds. Probalily rare in the State, as it has been
secured only near the .Nebraska border. IMue Bluffs, July 6 (362G).

32

i^

Phalaris artindinacea T.. (Rked Can.\kv-(;i;ass).— A tiill, luiiidsomo grass, 3 to 5
feet Li^b, willi ;imple, fiieen leaves and loiij;, close jjauides. 1 1 occurs in wet
ground along ditches and creek banks, in shallow bogs and ponds; nowhere
observed in abundance, and therefore in its nativ*^ state of little economic
importance. .lobnson's Kanch, Big Jjarainic, August 7 (3910) ; Grand Encamp-
ment Creek, August 13 (3987).
Savastaua odorata Scrihn. (Seneca-grass, fig, 4).— A small grass, 6 to 12 inches
high, with largo heads; whole plant emits a delightful fragrance. It occurs

in cold, swampy ground from
middle to high altitudes, some-
times in such quantity as to
constitute a perceptible part
of the forage. Willow Creek,
May 22 (2908).
Aristida fasciciilata Torr. (PuR-
I'i,eI>eari>-c;kass). — A closely
tufted grass, with slender,
very numerous stems, short,
sh'Tider loaves, the heads with
long, divergent awns. Not of
frequent occurrence in the
State, hut in one locality very
abundant, where it occui)ied
the dry foothills, especially
the loose, broken ground.
Pine Bluff's, July 6 (3617).
Stipa Columbiana Macoun (Co-
lumbian Needle-grass). — A
bunch grass with numerous
long leaves, the ui)per part of
the stems naked and hearing
a long i)aniclo with awns of
moderate length, 2 to 3 feet
high. It is a rare grass and
was sparingly found in scat-
tering bunches in the o])en
woods on the Medicine Bow
River, August 20 (4074).
Stipa comata Trin. vV Rupr.
(Neeole-grass). — One can
scarcely think of this tufted
grass, with its long, twisted
awns and barbed seeds, as
anything butai»est,but.stock-
nien assert that it is valuable
for pasture before it heads,
and that if cut after the "seeds" have dropped it forms a good quality of hay.
It is very abuiulant on the plains and in the dry foothills of the eastern part of the
State. Pine Blutl's, .July 5 (3G03).
Stipa nelsoni Scribn. (Nelson's Nkedi.e-gisass). — This grass belongs to the sum-
mer range especially, but it was also secured within the l\cd Desert. In the
wooded, mountain areas it attains to greater luxuriance and is of more frequent
occurrence. Woods Creek, August 9 (3963); Battle Lake, August 17 (1059 and
4060).

Fi(i. 3.— Switfh-graas (Panicum virijatum) : a, apiki^ets
b, Htaininalo lioret ; r, floret ; d, auterior view of saino.

33

Stipa minor (Vasey) Scribu. (Pukplk-top Needle-grass). — A bunch grass with
nnnierons slender root leaves, slender, somewhat wiry stems terminated by long
heads with divaricate and Aariously twisted or bent awns of moderate length.
Theroot system, with the dead leaves and stems of the previous year, forms a firm,
harsh mat, from which the new stems and leaves arise, 15 to 2.5 inches high. It
seems to belong to the mountain slopes in the region of permanent winter snows,
especially among the fallen timber on partially open hillsides. It is not
known whether the awns are
such as to lessen its forage value.
"G." Summer ranch, July 23
(3828); Battle Lake, August 16
(4026).

Stipa tweedyi Scribn. (Tweedy's
Stipa). — A bunch grass of
spreading habit with long, gen-
iculate, bent awns ; stems 20 to 30
inches long. In general appear-
ance it much resembles S. comata,
and its forage value may well
be compared with that. Sheep
Mountain, July 3 (3297).

Stipa viridula Trin. (Feather
Bunch-grass). — A tall, coarse
bunch-grass, with a long, close
panicle, awns bent, of moderate
length, seeds falling early. It
occurs in the eastern part of the
State on the dry, open plains,
but never iu any great abun-
dance. Pine Bluffs, July 6 (3613).

Oryzopsis micrantha Thurb.
(Small - flowered Mor xtain
Rice). — A rather handsome,
slender, spreading grass with
long, slender root leaves, pan-
icles loose and spreading, the
spikelets on slender, divaricate
pedicels, mature seeds large.
This was secured but once,
among the broken rocks in the
bottom of a dry canyon. It
must be of excellent quality,
and if it Avould thrive under

cultivation it would form a valuable addition to our forage plants.
July 6 (3615).

Eriocoma cuspidata Xutt. (Indian Millet).— A valuable grass of very wide dis-
tribution in the State. Pine Bluffs, July 5 (3606).

Muhlenbergia comata Bentli. (Hairy Muiilenuergia). — A smooth perennial with
rather scanty leaves, 1 to 2 feet high, heads spike-like, soft-hairy, the awns short
and fine. Not plentiful; usually on river bottoms and most frequently among
the stones on the low banks. Evanston, July 28 (3857); Grand Encampment
Creek, August 13 (3994).

Muhlenbergia gracilis breviaristata Vasey. — Growing in tufted, mat-like clumps;
leaves mostly radical, short; stems slender, 6 to 12 inches high; heads large for
the size of the grass, awns very short. It occurs in the hills, mostly on the naked
3018— No. 13 3

Fig. 4. — Seneca-grass {Savastana odorata) : a, spikelet;
b, rtorets; c, palet; d, pistil.

Pine Bluffs,

34

summits and ridges, sometimes in sufficieut abundance to constitute an appreci-
able part of the forage. Head of Pole Creek, July 22 (3431).
Phleum alpiuum L. (Alpine Timothy).— Very similar in general appearance to the
ordinary field timothy, except that it is somewhat smaller. Il is found on moist
slopes and in the valleys at 8,000 to 11,000 feet, often constituting a large per-
centage of the most valuable forage. Beaver Basin, July 22 (3816) ; Battle Lake
Mountain, August 17 (4050).
Alopecurus geniculatus fnlvus Scribn. (^Maksh Foxtaii,).— A succulent grass with
an abundance of soft leaves, forming small, usually decumbent bunches, stems

12 to 20 inches long. It fre
quents wet ground, especially
creek banks and shallow
stream beds, Avhere it forms
tufts among the cobblestones.
It is relished by stock,
though it is probably rather
watery in its composition.
Little Laramie River, July 4
(3334) ; Willow Creek, July 13
(3379) ; Beaver Basin, July 22
(3812) ; Johnson's Ranch, Au-
guj,t 9 (3908).
Alopecurus occidentalis Scribn.
(Mountain Foxtail, tig. 5).—
A valuable grass in the moun-
tain meadows and parks. Bat-
tle Lake, August 10 (4017).
Sporobolus airoides Torr. ( Fine-
top Salt-gi:as8, lig.fi). — This
grass forms large mats or
sometimes considerable areas
of harsh, raised sod, the
short, stiff root-leav(!S and
wiry stems giving it a disa-
greeable feeling to the touch ;
1 to 2 feet high, producing a
large, widely spreading pan-
icle. In spite of its stiffness,
on the open bottom lands
stock keep it well eaten
down, and it is difficult to
find fruited specimens. Little
Laramie River, July 24 (.34.52) ;
Tine Bluffs, July 7 (3619);
Granger, July 30 (3877).
Sporobolus asperifolius Thurb. (Rough-leafed Salt-gijass, tig. 7).— Harsh but
sleiulor leaves and stems; 9 to 15 inches high, the numerous capillary i)edice]s
of the panicle widely spreading. Probably of little value, though it may furnish
some of the summer pasture on tiio bottom lands where it occupies the drier
knolls, or more rarely is intermingled with other grasses on the lower, moist
ground. Granger, July 30 (3876 and 3889).
Sporobolus coufusus Vasey (fig. 8).— A small form growing in little tufts, the
stems and leaves almost hairlike, and the delicate panicle widely spreading, 3 to
t) inches high. \ot oliserved except on stony or gr.ivelly stream banks, where
it forms a scattering, inconspicuous growth. Laramie h'iver, July 12 (3361);
Grand Encampment Creek, August 13 (3990).

Fig. 5.— Mountain Foxtail {Alopecurus occidenlalig) : a,
spikelet; 6, fioret.

35

Sporobolus cryptandrus A. Gray (Sand Dropseed). — A tufted form with spread-
ing-stems, 12 to IS incbfs long, occurring on sandy knolls and ridges; usually
of very scattering growth, so that, thougli it is a nutritious jjasture grass, it is
of small economic importance. Hillsdale, July 7 (3660) ; Laramie, July 20 (3417).

Sporobolus depauperatus Scribn. (Dkopsekd). — Somewhat tufted, but still form-
ing a continuous sod, stems and leaves slender, 6 to 12 inches high. A most
excellent pasture giass. Centennial Valley, July 2 (3274); Evanston, July 27
(3841); Granger, July 30 (3883); Johnson's Ranch, August 8 (3901); Grand
Encampment Creek, August 13 (4002); Wagon Hound Creek, August 21 (4403).

Sporobolus simplex Scribn. —
A tiny alpine form, growing
in little tufts, or sometimes
as small patches of uniform
sod; the fruiting heads slen-
der and few-seeded ; the fine
root-leaves numerous and
nearly as long as the capil-
lary stems, which are 2 to 4
inches high. It occurs on the
uaked slopes in the vicinity
of the permanent winter
snow banks. Battle Lake
Mountain, August 16 (4011).

Agrostis alba L. (Red top,
Herd's-grass). — This well-
known grass occurs through-
out the valleys of the whole
region investigated. In
many places it has no doubt
been introduced, but in some
of the localities where it was
secured it must have been in-
digenous. It prefers wet
ground, and thrives im-
mensely under irrigation. In
some of the valleys it is con-
sidered one of the important
meadow grasses, as, for in-
stance, at Evanston, in the
Bear River Valley. Hills-
dale, July 7 (3663); Evans-
ton, July 27 (3832 and 4444) ;
Granger, July 30 (3888);
Grand Eiuampment Creek,
August 13 (3995). fig.6..

Agrostis asperifolia Trin.

(ROUGII-LK AFED BeNT-

GRASS). — An erect grass with long heads and numerous, ample leaves. It prefers
wet ground, such as the banks of streams, partially shaded l>ottom lands, and
more rarely boggy ground. It is a valuable constituent of the forage in such
situations, and forms a part of the hay in wet meadows. Evanston, July 28
(3856) ; Woods Creek, August 9 (3964).
Agrostis scabra Willd. (Rough Hair-grass). — Erect, with slender leaves and stems
and narrow, or, in older specimens, widely spreading panicle, the pedicels
extremely long and hair like. It forms a small part of the native grasses on
most of the bottom lands; occurring as scattering specimens or small clumps,
most frec^uent in the loamy soil of stream banks, probably of little value, but

-Fine- top Salt-grass (Sporobolus airoides) : a, spike-
let; 6, floret.

36

on open grounds grazed down with the other grasses. Head of North Vtrniilion

Creek, July 20 (3792) ; Evauston, July 28 (3851) ; Battle Lake, August 16 (4021).

Agrostis tenuis Vasey (Slknder Haiu-gkass).— Resembling the preceding, but

smaller, the panicle and its i)edicels shorter and less spreading. Collected but

once, in ground then fairly dry, hut probably boggy earlier in the season.

Low (6 to 12 inches high), and in small quantity. Battle Lake, August 1G(4014).

Agrostis huniilis Vasey (fig. 9).— A bunch grass of very small proportion, only 3 to

5 inches high; seemingly very rare; only one small bunch secured on an alpine

summit near a snowbank. Battle Lake Mountain, August 17 (4070).

Calamagrostis hyperborea americaua Kearn. (Sano-grass; Ykllowtoi-).— A tall

fine-looking grass, with close
cylindrical heads, often 3 to 4
feet high. In this range it
seems to be found in a-bun-
dance in wet draws and on
banks where seepage water is
abundant. It often forms a
close, even growth, but as it
requires so much water it can
not be utilized, except on tlie
wettest ground, as a meadow
grass. Pine Bluti's, July 6
(3632); North Fork A'ermil ion
Creek, July 19 (3772); Gran-
ger, July 30 (3884); "Woods
Lauding, August 7 (3902);
Medicine Bow Kiver, Augiist
21 (4089).
Calamagrostis cauadenfis (Mx.)
Beauv. ( Bu'e-joixt grass). —
Stems and leaves stouter than
in the preceding, heads close
and full, 2 to 3 feet high ; in-
frequent, usually in wet places
or on creek banks. Head of
Pole Creek. .Inly 22 (3437).
Calamagrostis canadensis acu-
minata Vasey (Mountain
Blue-joint). — Much resem-
bling the preceding in general
appearance; in age the pani-
cle is loose and sitreading. It
is the commoner form of this
range, occurring both in t>pen
and in partially shaded
ground. Its luxuriant growth
and am)>lc leaves suggests
that it may be valuabic under
cultivation. In one mountain
locality it formed a luxuriant and continuous growth among the fallen timber.
Johnsons Kanch, August 9 (3905); Woods Creek, August 10 (3946); Battle Lake,
August 16 (4018).
Calamagrostis moutanensis Scribn. (Montana Bluk-.ioint).— A small erect form,
with close cylindrical heads, rarely more than a foot high. It occurs on dry or
even on rocky slojjes, and on the drier parts of th«' bottom lands as scattering spec-
imens or irregular i)atches of various sizes. It must be considered as a pasture
grass of some value. Horse Creek, July 13 (3381) ; Big Creek, August 11 (3970).

Fig. 7.— Kouj;h-leal'ed Salt-};ni88 (Spvrobulus asjierif alius)
a, empty glumes; b, floret; c, fjiryopsis.

37

Calamagrostis purpiirascens R. Br. (Puri'LIsii Reed-grass, fig. 10). — A mountain
form, 12 to I'U inches high, with amjjle root-leaves and close cylindrical heads.
The specimens secured formed close hunches on the rocky clitfs and on the
highest summits; not abundant. Battle Lake, August 16 (4047 and 4056).

Calamagrostis scribneri Beal CScribxer's Reed-grass). — Erect and stout, with a
wealth of long broad leaves and ample heads 3 to 4 feet high; the handsomest
grass of the genus, often making a dense close growth that yields an abundance
of hay, presumably excellent, though the leaves are somewhat scabrous to the
touch. It jtrefers wet ground, but thrives on the bottom lands anywhere or even
on the lower slopes of the adjacent hills. Johnsons Ranch, August 9 (3920) ;
Woods Creek, August 10 (3954) ; Grand Encampment Creek, August 13 (3989) ;
^ledicine Bow River, August 20 (4082).

Calamovilfa longifolia Scribn. (Big Sand-grass). — A coarse grass occurring in
occasional clumps, 2 to 4 feet high. Rare in this range and probably confined
to the eastern part of the State, where
it occurs on the dry sandy plans or hill-
sides. Hillsdale, .July 7 (3G(J6j.

Deschampsiacaespitosa Beauv. (Tufted
Hair-grass). — Uensely tufted, with an
abundance of long root leaves, the slen-
der stems exceeding the leaves and ter-
minating in large, loose, spreading
panicles. It is of frequent occurrence
throughout this entirf range, occurring
on all the streams, in the mountains on
all the moist slopes, and even on alpine
summits. Little Laramie River, July 4
(3337); Pine Bluffs, July (5 (3623); Bea-
ver Basin, July 22 (3817); Evanston,
July 28 (3860) ; Grang.-r, July 30 (3890) ;
Woods Landing, August 7 (3904) ; Battle
Lake, August 16 (4008).

Tri.setum subspicatum Beauv. (Downy
Oat-grass). — Usually growing in small
tufts, which are irregularly scattered
on mountain slopes or more rarely in the
valleys, root-leaves abundant, the up-
per stem nearly naked and bearing a
short, cylindrical head, with soft, di-
vergent awns. As a pasture grass it
has value in proportion to its abun-
dance. Battle Lake Mountain, August
17 (4045 and 4061).

Danthouia californica Boland. (Cali-
FORXiAX Oat-(;rass). — Decumbent at
base and somewhat spreading or de-
clined in habit, stems leafy, 20 to 30 inches high; panicle small. It is certainly
very rare in the region, for which reason its forage value need not be taken into
account. Observed but once as a scattering growth in an aspen grove in a moist
valley. Greentop, June 29 (3253).

Danthonia intermedia Vasey (Mountain Oat-grass). — An erect, handsome grass
with well-developed heads, 15 to 25 inches high. It occurs in small patches as
an open sod in the margins of the woods or in the small parks in the mountains.
In many x)laces it is sufficiently abundant to have much value as a pasture grass.
Battle Lake, August 17 (4037 and 4055) ; Woods Creek, August 9 (39.59).

Danthouia parryi Scribn. (Parry's Oat-grass). — Somewhat similar to the preced-
ing, but lower and with looser heads, more inclined to be tufted at base. This

Fig. 8. — tSporobolus con/usus : a, b, c, npikelets;
d, floret.

38

also is of rare oecnrrence, and is met with only in the liills s.i far ns ohserved.

Secured on open hillsides, where it oocnrred iu small patches, grow inj; on a soil

of disintegrated granite. Greeiitop, June 29 (3245).
Spartina gracilis Trin. (Si.EXDER Cord-GRASS, tig. 11).— A perennial from tough

underground root-stocks, rather rigid and woody, hut not harsh; possibly of

some value when young. It occurs as a scattering growth on sandy, alkaline

soil on creek or pond hanks. Laramie River, .July 12 (3364); I'ine Bluffs, .Tuly

() (3<J30) ; (Jranger, .July 30 (3885).
Schedonnardus panicnlatus Trolease (False C'RAB-onASS).— A worthless grass of

spreading habit, leaves crowded at the base, the naked scabrous stems divari-

FKi.O.—Agrogtinhnmilig; a, spikdct ; h, eniyity Flo. 10.— Piirplisli Rccdfrrass (Calamafirostis )iur-
KluninH; c, /, llorclH; </, jiiilct ; ('. (■ar.v(>i>si.H; piirasccnti): a, ciiijity ^'liiincs; /', Hort't; c, pro-

ij. ajtcx of tlowi-iiii},' Kliiine. longaticm of llio r:i( liill:i.

cately branched, rigid and brittle, .-it least when mature, 1) to 15 inches high.
Of rare occurrence, usually in broken ground, such as ilry ditches or plow
furrows. Tine Hlulls, .Inly (! (.'jr)42).
Bouteloua oligostachya 'I'orr. (IW.ack (;i:ama).— l^omewhat tufted or matted, )>ut
often a fairly uniform growth over sevei.il rods of ground in a place, the numer-
ous leaves are largely basal, tin; slender stems w hich Ik ar the one sided heads,
10 to 1« inches high. This is j)reemiiiently the grass of the jdains, occurring in
greater or less abundance every where on the arid pasture lands. It is of especial

39

valne as a pasture grass, but furnishes a part of the hay on the drier second hot-
torn meadows. It has the reputation of being very nutritious, and the condition
of the stock pastured upon it bears out this idea fully. Laramie Plains, July 19
(3409); Pine Bluffs, July 6 (3619); Hillsdale, July 7 (3658); Woods Landing,
August 7 (3909).

Beckmannia erucaeformis Host. (Slough-grass, fig. 12).— A grass of the bogs and
of the margins of ponds and irrigation canals; erect, well leafed, heads long and
slender, seeds flat and large, falling early and leaving the raohis bare almost as
soon as it is mature. Probably of no special value, but in very wet ground it
often constitutes a percep-
tible part of the plants
that are cut for liay. Much
of it, however, can not be
utilized, as it grows in
places where it is not ac-
cessible until so late in the
season that it has lost its
value for any purpose.
North Fork Vermilion
Creek, July 19 (3763) ; Ev-
anston, July 27 (3831);
Granger, July 30 (3881).

Bulbilis dactyloides Raf.
(Buffalo grass). — Low
and matted, ordinarily
only a few inches high;
staminate and pistillate
heads on separate culms.
Not nearly so common as
is generally supposed, for
much of what passes for
this is generally one of the
species of Grama grass.
They are, however, readily
enough distinguished, es-
pecially when they are
headed out. On the open
range these are all grazed
down so closely that it be-
comes difficult to recog-
nize them. This grass
occurs on the open plains,
but especially in flat draws
among the ridges of hills
that intersect the plains at
intervals. It has no sig-

FiR. 11.— Slender Cord-grass (Spartina gracilis): a, spikelet;

b, floret.

nificance except as a pas-
ture grass, and there seems to be some foundation for the belief that it is gradu-
ally disappearing from the range. Pine Bluff's, July 6 (3616).

Eatonia obtusata Gray (Early Bunch-grass).— Soft, handsome, and well leafed,
18 inches to 3 feet high, with slender, close panicled heads. In moist ground,
either open or partly shaded, it makes a most luxuriant growth. Certainly a
good pasture grass, and in some meadows it is a valuable part of the hay crop.
(Granger, July 30 (3886); Grand Encampment Creek, August 13 (3993).

Koeleria cristata Pers. (Phairir J une-(;i{ass).— Somewhat tiilted, verv leafy at the
base; stems strict and erect, bearing a close cylindrical head, very variable in size,

40

from a few inches to a foot or two in height. Perhaps the most generally dis-
tributed of our valuable pasture grasses, as it occurs in greater or less abun-
dance on both plains and foothills, as svell as to some extent in the mountains.
It is quite variable, also, in appearaiice, depending no doubt largely ui)on the
stage of development that it has reached and to some extent npon its habitat.
IMn'e Blutls, July G (3620); Beaver Basin, July 22 (3808); p:van8ton, July 28
(3850) ; Woods Landing, August 7 (3915) ; Battle Lake, August 16 (4040) ; Wagon
Hound Creek, August 21 (4100).
Melica bulbosa (ieycr (BiMsors Melic-gkass, fig. 13).— A tall, handsome, grass,
bearing small bulbs at the base of the straight stems; heads slender, but the
spikeh'ts plump ; 2 to 3 feet high. An excellent grass, but usually of very scat-
tering growth ; often protected from stock by growing among the undcrshrubs on
Ihe banks of ravines. Not very widely distributed, in fact, observed only a few

times in the foothills, (ireeu
Top, June 29 (3265); Slieep
Mountain, July 3 (3306) ; Battle
Lake, August 16 (4023).
Distichlis spicata Greene (Salt-
<ii{ASs). — Leaves and stems
somewhat slender, but rather
\ "^^^ II II I \li IIW stiff", from a few inches to a foot

Jl ^£ /If H M ormorehigh. It isdistinctively

I f ^^ & \ 11 M III /■! " grass of the alkaline Hats,

V x^d \ III III III mIII growing fairly well where salts

are present in the soil to such
an extent that other grasses can
not live at all. It likes mois-
ture, but is not absent from com-
paratively dry ground. The
sod it forms is often close, but
always harsh and disagreeable.
In the desert regions it is valu-
able for the pasture it furnishes
about the springs that serve as
watering places for the stock on
the op<!n range. Line Bluffs,
July G (3631).
Poa arctica R. Brown (Akctic
.Si'Kak-(;kass). — A densely-
tufted grass, with erect stems
and very lax beads, the slen-
der pedicels loosely spreading.
It seems to be a valual)le jias-
turo grass, but occurs mostly
;it high elevations, so ;is not
to come within the ordinary
range of stock; it prefers moist, rich slopes or creek bottoms, and attains in such
places a height of 15 to 25 inches. Head of Bole Creek, July 22 (3432).
Poa arida Vasey (Bench-land Spear-grass, fig. 14). — Forming suuill bundles, the
rootleavesshort but abundant, thestemsslender and almost naked above, 10 to 18
inches high. A'aliiable as an early i>asture grass on the drier bench lands, butof
little value in tlir meadows, for it is past its prime before the other grasses are
ready t.. be harvested. Pine lUuffs, July 6 (3GI3); Granger, July 30 (3S87).
Poa buckleyaua Nash (Brxcii-(iUAS.s).— A bunch-grass with erect, slender stems,
15 to 25 inches high; root leaves abundant but short. One of the most widely
distributed and valuable of the pasture grasses, but gnsatly variable in size and

Fig. 12. — Slough-grass (lieckinannia irnciujOriiiin): a, h
spike; c, spikelct; d, floret.

41

appearance in different situations. Its time of development and maturity varies
••with the cbaracter and moisture of tlie soil and tbo altitude, so tliat in different
localities it will be found in excellent condition tbroughont tbe season. Green
Top, June 29 (3244); Nortb Fork Vermilion Creek, .July 20 (3780); Head of Ver-
milion Creek, July 20 (3798) ; Battle Lake, August 17 (4043).
Poa epilis Scribn.— Very slender stems, 12 to 18 incbes high, witb sbort, rather
broad beads; root leaves small and stem nearly naked. It was met witb only
once at an almost alpine beigbt, growing as scattering specimens among the
broken, granite rocks. Battle Lake Mountain, August 17 (4067).

Fig. 13. — Bulbous Mi'lii-grass {Melica bullosa) : a,
spikelet; b, flowering glume; c, floret; d, c.aryop-
sis; e, terminal rudinieutary floret.

Fig. 14. — Bencli-land Spear-grass (Poa
arida) -. a, spikelet; 6, flowering glume;
c, floret.

Poa fendleriana Vasey (Fendler's Spear-grass). — A small bimch-grass, 10 to 15
incbes high, with numerous leaves and ample panicles. It occurs on rocky slopes
in tbe foothills in the western part of the State; seemingly neither frequent nor
abundant, but undoubtedly an excellent pasture grass. Evanstou, May 29 (2970,
2986, and 2998).

Poa flava L. (False Redtop). — Tall and slender, 2 to 3 feet high, with long,
spreading panicles. In some localities a conspicuous grass in the wet draws on
bottom lauds at least, so in inclosures where it is allowed to head out. In open
ground and in pastures, stock graze it down closely, indicating that it is among

42

tlio most relished of pasture grasses; of consiclerablo importance in localities
near Kvaiiston and Medicine liow Iviver. Evauston, Inly 27 (3848 and 3858);
Medicine Bow River, Angnst 21 (4093).
Poa glauca \ alil. (Speak c.hass). — Tliissiiiooth, handsome bunch-grass occurs spar-
iuuly in the mountains. It prefers moist places, where, under favorable con-
ditions, it will attaiu a height of 12 to 18 inches. It is an excellent pasture

grass, as evidenced l)y the extent
to which it is sought out by
stock. Head of Pole Creek, June
ill (3196).
Poa laevigata 8cribn. (Smooth
IjUNCII-cuass). — A bunch-grass
of mnch value, 1 to 2 feet high.
It has adapted itself to very
diverse conditions, as shown by
its being found iii all kinds of
soil — on the strongly alkaline of
the r.itter Creek Hats to that
of the o])en mountain parks; on
moist creek banks and dry hill-
sides and ridges. It develops
early, hence is of mnch value as
early summer jjasture. North
Vermilion Creek, .July 19 (3766);
Colorado-Wyoming line, July 22
(3807) ; Evanstcm, .Inly 27(3837);
Granger, July 30 (3891).
Poa leptoconia Trin. — A rare grass
of scatteiing growth, the stems
weak and the lea\es soft and
broad; observed but once as
scattering, individual speci-
mens on th(! broken banks of a
streamlet in a subalpiuo ]>ark.
Battle Lake, Angu.st 16 (1019).
Poa longepedunculata Scribn.

(LONG-.STALKKI) BUNCH (iU.VSS).

— A remarkably line bunch-
grass, the tufts large and close,
20 to 30 inches high ; leaves short
and largely basal, the numerous
naked stems slender and erect;
])aniclo amjile but close. It is a
grass of the hill regions, occupy-
ing the slopes and summits, often in considerable abundance. Sheep Mountain,
July 3 (.3292).
Poa lucida Vasey (Siiixixc Brxcn-OUAss). — .V wi<lely distributed gr.-iss, but never
greatly abundant; erect in habit, with long ample leaves; of excellent (|uality,
and adapting itself to various habitats, (jreen 'lop. .June 29 (3257; L.-iramie
U'iver, .Inly 20 (3115); Woods Landing, August 7 (390ti).
Poa nemoralis L. (Wood .MKAi)ow-(iRAss). — (Jrowing in bunches, leaves and stems
slemler, the, panicle am]>le, loose and spreailing; an excellent grass, attaining a
height of 2 feet or more. It occurs in )>artly wooded .areas, on the sloj)es or on
the creek banks, where it is often a very imimrtant ]iart of the forage. Head of
Vermilion Creek, July 20 (3794 j; (irand Kncauipment Creek, August 13 (3983).

Fio. 15. — Neviida I'.liie->rrass il'nn nerademig) : a,
tiiuiity gl nines; h, lldiftn.

43

Poa nemoralis L. var ? . — Much smaller than the precefling, with perfectly erect
stems ; the heads a shorter, closer panicle. Probably a form of higher altitudes.
Head of Pole Creek, July 22, (3435).

Poa nevadensis Vasey (Nevada Blue-grass, fig. 15). — Forming small bunches, the
ample leaves, numerous stems, and well-developed heads make this a grass that
always attracts attention. In the open range it is always browsed down except
where protected by fallen timber or otherwise. It seems to ])refer open woods
on the slopes of the foothills or, more rarely, the partly shaded stream banks.
Laramie Hills, June 16 ^3179^;
"G." Summer ranch, July 23
(3823) ; Granger, July 30, (3891a).

Poa pratensis L. (Kentucky Blue-
grass, tig. 16). — This well-
known grass needs no descrip-
tion. It is widely distributed
and everywhere recognized as
a most important grass. Cen-
tennial Valley, July 2 (.3278);
North Vermilion Creek, .luly 18
(37.58) ; head of North Vermilion
Creek, July 20 (3796) ; Evanston,
July 27 (3844); Woods Creek,
August 9 (3942 ; Grand Encamp-
ment, August 13(3999).

Poa reflexa Vasey & Scribn.
(MouxTAix Blue-grass). — A
beautiful form of the higher
mountains, usually as a bunch
grass but often more scattering;
stems moderately slender, 10 to
18 inches high; panicle loose
and ample, the pedicels retlexed
in age. It occurs in ravines and
sometimes in abundance on the
slopes in subalpine stations.
That it is an excellent pasture
grass hardly admits of doubt,
but it is too often in most inac-
cessible places. Battle Lake
Mountain, August 17 (4038 and
4044).

Poa sheldoni Vasey (Sheldon's
Blue-grass, PI. IV). — Stems
slender and erect with well-
formed heads; leaves mostly
basal, short, slender, and some-
what rigid; usually occurring

as a bunch grass, varying in height from 1 to 2 feet, according to location
probably belongs to the arid region, but is not contined to th(^ drier situations.
In fact, it occurs more frequently on the drier portions of the bottom lands and
on the higher ground about spring bogs. In all such situations it must be con-
sidered as one of the valuable grasses. Its earliness detracts from its value as
a meadow grass unless it can be grown by itself, as it is out of condition
before the other constituents of the meadow are in condition for harvesting.
Pine Bluffs, July 7 (.3644); Beaver Basin, July 22 (3806); North Fork, Vermilion
Creek, July 18 (3754 and 3785); Evanston, July 28 (3869).

Fig

16. — Kentncky Blne-jirass (Poa pratensis) : a,
spikelet ; 6, Horet.

It

44

Poa wheeleri Vasey (Wyoming Bluk-grass, fig. 17).— Sleuder stemmed; 10 to 24
inches high ; basal leaves numerous ; panicles close or looser m age. This buuch
grass is valuable as jiasture, but, like the i)rt'ceding, would be more so if it
oftener descended into the lov\-er altitudes of the foot hills or the plains. Cen-
tennial Valley, .July 2 (3290) ; Battle Lake, August 17 (4049).
Graphephorum muticum Scribn. (?).— A handsome grass, with broad green leaves;
rather large stems, 2 to 3 feet high; head a close, nearly cylindrical panicle,

3 to 6 inches long. Probably
very rare; secured but once.
Battle Lake, August 16 (4012
and 4013).
Panicularia americana MacM.
(Keed Meadow-grass; Tall
Manna-grass). — Stems stout, 2
to 4 feet high ; leaves large and
abundant ; the panicle ample,
loose, and sjireading, 6 to 12
inches long. This very hand-
some grass thrives on wet bot-
tom lands and in the shallow
sloughs that border our streams.
Its forage value is much under-
estimated, for not only can im-
mense crops of it be produced,
but the quality of the hay is far
above the average ordinarily
secured from wet lands. Evans-
ton, .July 24 (3871) ; Woods Land-
ing, August 7 (3907).
Panicularia borealis Nash (North-
ern Meadow-c;kass). — Stem
weak, moderately leafy, 2 to
several feet in length, some-
times rooting at the nodes in
the mud at the bottoms of the
ponds in which it grows; pani-
cle very long and open, soon
naked through the early disin-
tegration of its spikelets. Of
no economic importance, for it
occurs, so far as my observation
goes, only as scattering speci-
mens in deep, clear, fresh-water
ponds. Johnson's ranch, August
8 (3936); Grand Encampment,
August 13 (3986).

Panicularia nervata Knntze (Nerved Manna-GRA.ss, fig. 18).— Soft, succulent
leaves and stems, rather weak, 2 to 3 feet high ; usually as a scattering growth
in partly shaded bottom lands, but sometimes in considerable abundance in
wet open meadows. It is greedily eaten by stock, but as a hay grass it probably
lacks weight and substunce. North Vermilion Creek, .Inly 19 (3769); Woods
Creek, August 9 (39').")); Cooiter Hill, August 22 (1405).
Panicularia nervata stricta Scril>n.— Similar to the preceding, but smaller. Of
small economic ini|Mirtance, as it oceiirs only as scattering specimens in the
bioKen s<iil of tlie rit<'k b;mks. ( 'olorado- Wyoming line, .Inly 22 (3818); (irand
Encampment Creek, August 13 (3979;.

FiQ. 17.— AA'yomiiig Blue grass {Poa wheeleri) : a, empty
glumes; b, c. florets.

45

Puccinellia airoides Wats. & Coult. (Alkali Meadow-grass).— Erect, with slen-
der, tufted stems, 1 to 2 feet higb, the panicle long, open, and spreading; a grass
of the wet, saline Hats and the ditch banks. Laramie River, July 4 (3332) ; Hills-
dale, July 7 (3664).

Festuca brevifolia R. Brown (Short-leafed Fescue).— Closely tufted, with nu-
merous short basal leaves; stems strict, 6 to to 10 inches high, the panicle close
and slender; infrequent, occurring on the dry ridges of disintegrated granite.
Head of Pole Creek, July 22

f^^

(3430).
Festuca elatior pratensis Scribn.

(Meadow Fescue). —Slender, weak

stemmed, 2 to 3 feet high; a few

scattering specimens secured on

Crow Creek. Cheyenne, July 8

(3664(1).
Festuca thurberi Vasey (Tiiurber's

Fescue). — A handsome Poa-like

plant, forming large compact sods

on the edge of the thickets along

the mountain streams; leaves and

stems slender, 2 to 3 feet high ; in-
clined to be harsh to the touch, so

that when mature probably not

very well relished by stock. Wil-
low Creek, July 13 (3377).
Festuca kingii Scribn. (King's Fes-
cue, fig. 19). — Thick-stemmed, 1 to

2 feet high ; leaves few, short, and

broad; the I)a8e8 of the stems

sheathed by the old leaves. This is

a grass of the sandy or gravelly

slopes and banks in the foothills,

probably never fornung a coutinu-
ous sod, but sometimes abundant
enough to be of importance as a pas-
ture grass. Evanston, May 29
(2995); Sheep Mountain, July 3
(3300) ; " G." Summer ranch, July
23 (3826).
Festuca ovinaL. (Sheep's Fescue). —
Densely tufted, the slender leaves
and stems very numerous, 6 to 18

inches high; panicle slender, the spikelets being closely appressed; awns short
but noticeable; widely distributed and often abundant, especially on dry ridges
and disintegrated granite slopes. Head of Pole Creek, June 19(3195); Green
Top, June 29 (3242) ; Sheep Mountain, July 3 (3303) ; Battle Lake Mountain,
August 17 (4062).
Festuca rubra L. (Red Fescue).— Somewhat resembliiig the preceding, but m
smaller tufts or as single specimens, stems seemingly longer and more slender.
Not plentiful in tliis range. Colorado- Wyoming line, July 22 (3819).
Bromus breviaristatus Buckl. (Short-awned Brome-grass).— A fine appearing
grass, 2 to 4 feet high; stems erect, leaves large and numerous, the panicle long
vrith closely appressed or at least ascending branches. It occurs in open woods in
the mountains where it sometimes forms meadow-like tracts of considerable
extent. It seems to be relished by all kinds of stock, and it was noted that on
Pine Mountain, where it is very abundant, sheep, being grazed there in July,

Fig. 18.— Nerved Mauna-grass (Panieularia ner-
vata) : a, b, spikelets ; c, d, florets.

46

were feedinj^ upou it very freely. In bigh mountain ineaclows it would prove
very valuable as a hay grass. Horse Creek, July 10 (3358). Little Laramie
River, .Tuly I (3333) ; Meditnue Bow Kiver, August 20 (4073).
Bromus ciliatus scariosus Scribn. — A suuiU form only 12 to 18 inclies high; leaves
slender and stems weak ; ])anicle short and spreading, the spikelets on slender
pedicels. Rare, secured but once, in a dry, stony canyon on the side of a moun-
tain where scatteiiug speci-
mens occurred at intervals.
Shec]) Mountain, July 3 (3305).
Broiuus kalmii CI ray (Kalm's
Chess). — Leaves abundant,
stems erect, 2 to 3 feet high ;
panicles many-Howered, often
drooping, the pedicels slender
and dexuous. This bunch grass
is a very important one in some
of the mountain ranges. In
open woods (m stony hillsides
it occurs in great abundance,
as it frequently does in some
of the higher-lying meadows.
Woods Creek, August 9 (3948) ;
Medicine Bow River, August
22 (4083).
Bromus multiflorus Scribn.
(Large Mountain Bhome-
GKASS). — Erect, moderately
strong stemmed, 3 to 4 feet
high, leaves large and numer-
ous; panicles ample, close,
many flowered, the spikelets
erect or nearly so, awns short
but evident. For further
notes upon this grass, which
undoubtedly has great eco-
nomic value(8eepage29). "G."
Sninmer ranch, July 23(3827) ;
Battle Lake, August Ifi (4021
and 4035); Pino Mountain,
head of Vermilion Creek, July
18 (3759).
Bromus porteri (Coult.) Nash
(I'oKTEe's C II ESS ). — Erect,
with ample leaves, 2 to 3 feet
high; panicle long, its
brandies lax and spikelets on slender flexuous pedicels. Undoubtedly a valu-
able grass, liut usually only scattering, individual 8i)ecimens in the aspen coitses
or on the more open hillsides. Battle Lake, August 10 (4022); Cooper Hill,
August 22 (4407).
Bronaus scabratus Sciibn. (Scahuous Chess). — Harshly scabrous, leaves and stems
8l(!U(b;r, somewhat lle.xnous, 2 to3 feet hmg; panicle oi)en, si)ikelcts very slender,
on filiform liexuoiis ]ie<licels. My lield notes say "A very coinmon grass on the
creek Imtlums at this stalioii. It foiiiis a portion of the general growth overall
the district observed. Ap])arently not browsed down so fully as some of the
<itlier grasses even where stock has full access to it." Head of Vermilion Creek,
.Inly 20(3800).

Fig. 19. — King's Feacue (Festucakingii): a, si)ikelet; b,
floret.

47

Agropyron caninoides Beal. (Bearded Wheat-grass).— Tliis wheat-grass occurs

mostly as a bimch grass; the bunches small with stoutish, erect stems; heads

long, close, and well awned. It vvobably is rare, though it was found in fair

qua'utity on the borders of a mountain brook and extending well up on the

adjacent hillsides. Woods Creek, August 9 (3940).
Agropyron caniiiuni R. & S. (Bearded Wheat ghass).— Somewhat resembling

the preceding but smaller, with shorter leaves. Probably of the plains rather

than the mountains. Lara-
mie River, July 31 (3458).
Agropyron dasystachyum

subvillosuni S. iV H. — It

is especially valuable upon

saline lands and responds

with an increased yield to

more favorable situations.

Pine Bluffs, July 5 (3604);

Colorado- Wyoming line,

July 22 (3S04); Evanston,

July 27 (3836).
Agropyron divergens Nees.

(BUNCII WUEAT-GUASS). —

A bunch grass, the stems

and leaves densely tufted,

18 to 30 inches high ; heads

long, narrowly spike-like,

with long, divergent,

twisted awns. Common in

the foothills on dry, stony

ridges and slopes. Readily

eaten by stock, especially

before the awns have de-
veloped and after they have

fallen off. Laramie Hills,

June 16 (3181); Green Top,

June 29 (3243); Sheep

Mountain, July 3 (3298).
Agropyron pseudorepens S.
• & S. (False Couch-grass,

lig. 20). — Forming dense
bunches, the numerous
stems stout, erect as a
whole, but somewhat bent
at base, spikes 4 to 6 inches
long, awns short. Pro-
nounced a most excellent
grass for hay purposes, both

on accountof its quality and its heavy yield. Itwouldseem that some of the other
wheat-grasses that form a uniform sod could be used to better advantage than
this bunch-grass on grounds which are to be seeded to permanent meadow. Pme
Bluffs, July 6 (3634) ; Woods Creek, August 9 (3965) ; Battle Lake, August 17 (4064).
Agropyron richardsoni Schrad. (Richardson's Wheat-grass).— In a general way
resembling the preceding, but growing mostly as scattering, individual speci-
mens ; the spikes conspicuously awned. It occurs mostly on the edges of clear-
ings or in open Avoods. Hardly abundant enough to have much significance in
this range. Woods Landing. August 7 (3923) ; Grand Encampment, August 13
(3978) ; Cooper Hill, August 22 (4408).

Tig. 20.— False Couch-grass (Agropyron pseudorepens) : a,
empty glumes ; b, florets.

48

Agropyron riparium S. & S. (Bank Wheat-grass).— Stems slender, erect, 2 to 3
feet high; leaves sparse, mostly basal; spike narrow, spikelets rather distant,
giving an interrupted appearance. Occurring both on the saline soil of the
plains and the alluvial soil of mountain parks. In the latter situations it often
forms meadow-like tracts, indicating that under cultivation it may prove a val-
uable member of this imi)ortant genus of grasses. Little Laramie Kiver, July
24 (3447); Colorado-Wyoming line, July 22 (3813).
Agropyron spicatum S. & S. (Western Wheat-grass). — An erect, rather coarse
species with large heads of conspicuous spikelets. It grows as a continuous but

open sod and yields a large
amount of valuable forage.
Pine Blulis, July 6 (3610);
Evauston, July 27 (3847);
Granger, July 30 (3878);
Grand Encampment, Au-
gust 13 (3997).
Agropyrou spicatum molle S.
& S. — Very similar to the
preceding but smaller; con-
fined in this range almost
wholly to saline regions,
where it is of much impor-
tance. Sheep Mountain,
July 3 (3299).
Agropyron tenerum Vasey
(Slender Wheat-grass). —
Leaves numerous, stems
slender and erect; spikes 3
to 6 inches long, the few
flowered spikelets closely
appressed, awns very short.
As previously stated, this
seems to be the most valu-
able of the wheat-grasses for
this range. Pine Bluffs,
July 6 (3628); North Ver-
milion Creek, July 19 (3773) ;
Evauston, July 27 (3846);
Granger, July 30 (3880);
Grand Encampmeiit, Au-
gust 13(3976) ; Medicine Bow
River, August 20 (407t)).
Agropyron tenenini ciliatum
S. «fc S. -^Smaller, more slen-
der, spikelets less crowded.
A valuable grass, but not
widely distributed. North Vermilion Creek, July 18 (37.5.")).
Agropyron vaseyi S. A 8. (Vaskv's Whkat-ghass). — In habit and general appear-
ance much resimbling ./. divcri/eus. Uke tliat, it occupies dry slopes and the
summits of hills, this especially in the "red formations" of the desert. Pine
Mountain, head of Vermilion Creek, .Inly 20 ('^797).
Agropyron violaceum Vasey fMorxTAix Wiikat-(;rass). — Stems, stout, short, 10
to IS inches high, spikes slender, purplish. A grass of much value and wide
distribution, iu this range rather rare and confined to the hill country. Laramie
Kills, .Inly 17 (3403).

-Tr~

Fio. 21. — Elymus simplex: a, empty gbinies; ?), florets.

49

Triticum aestivum L. ^ Wheat).— Some specitnenH found iu an old stock yard.
Grand Encampment Creek, August 13 (3984).

Hordeum jubatum L. (Squiruel-tail grass).— More or less abundant throughout
this entire range.

Hordeum occidentae Scribn. — Slender stemmed, 12 to 18 inches higli; leaves
abundant; spikes slender, with awns of moderate length. It forms a uniform
growth but rather open sod, in which it differs from the preceding, which is
usually found in tufts or bunches. This would have forage value of no mean
degree except for the awns, which are said to make it objectionable. North
Vermilion Creek, July 20 (3781).

Hordeum nodosum L. (Meadow Barley).— Wagon Hound Creek, August 21 (4099).

Elymus ambiguus V. & S.— Slender, rather rigid leaves and stems, 12 to 18 inches
high; spike narrow, 3 to 6 inches long, inclined to have an interrupted appear-
ance; awns very short. Neither common nor abundant, collected but once, on
the alkali flats bordering the banks of Hams Fork. Granger, September 1 (4451).

Elymus canadensis L. (Wild Rye).— Tall and somewhat coarse, 3 to 5 fee.t; stems
Jeafy ; spikes dense, 4 to 8 inches long, bearded. This well-known bunch grass
is confined to the drier regions of the eastern part of the State, where it is of
frequent occurrence and often abundant. Pine Bluffs, July 6 (3637).

Elymus condensatus Presl. (Giant Rye-grass).— A tall, smooth, coarse grass
forming innuenso clumps. The most conspicuous grass throughout the entire
southwestern part of the State. North Vermilion Creek, July 23 (3829).

Elymus glaucus Buckl. — This rye grass seems to belong to the wooded areas,
occurring as scattering specimens or in small bunches in aspen thickets or
among the fallen timber on wooded slopes. Battle Lake, August 16 (4016);
Medicine Bow River, August 21 (4085) ; Cooper Hill, Aiigust 21 (4413).

Elymus macounii Vasey.— A bunch grass of much promise; my field notes make
special mention of its abundance of soft, excellent leaves. It rarely occurs as an
open, continuous sod on bottom lands or in the draws among the hills. Pine
Blufts, July 6 (3624); North Vermilion Creek, July 20 (3783).

Elymus occideutalis Scribn. (Western Rye-grass).— Tall and slender stemmed,
3 to 4 feet; spikes short, pubescent, awns of moderate length. Probably rare,
only one small patch of it observed; on the dry terraces separating the first and
second liottom lands. Laramie River, September 15 (4470).

Elymus simplex Scribn. (fig. 21).— A stilf, harsh perennial, 1 to 2 feet high; spikes
slender, inclined to appear interrupted, 3 to 5 inches long. But little of it
observed, and that growing iu small bunches on the grassy banks of an irri-
gating canal. Little Laramie River, July 4 (3335;.

Sitanion elymoides Raf. (Long-bearded Wild Rye.)— This Inmch grass differs
much in appearance and size in different habitats. On the dry saline plains of
the desert it forms low, compact bunches and the spikes have awns of moderate
length; on moist mountain slopes the bunches arc loose, the stems long and
spreading, the spikes loose, and the divaricate awns of inordinate length. In
any case it can not be looked upon with any favor as a forage plant. Pine Bluffs,
July 6(3608); North Vermilion Creek, July 20 (3784); Woods Creek, August 9
(3952).

SEDGES.

Eleocharis palustris (L.) R. & S. (Common Spike-rush.)— Slender stemmed and of
very close compact growth, 10 to 15 inches high. This species occurs In very
many boggy places as a pure growth and in over-irrigated meadows it often
constitutes a large percentage of the crop that is put up and labelled hay. Some
forage value it no doubt has, but it is to be regretted that the better true grasses
should be drowned out only to be replaced by this. Centennial Valley, July 4
(3329) ; Pine Bluffs, .July 7 (3656) ; North Vermilion Creek, July 19 (3764) ; Evans-
ton, July 27 (3833).

3018— No. 13 4

50

Eleocharis sp. (?). — Erect and close growing, the stems slender, 5 to 8 inches high;
spike short, oblong. Common on the marshy banks of the streams and ponds.
Pine Bluffs, May 15 (2899;.

Scirpus campestris Britt. (Prairie Rush). — Stems triangular, stout and very
leafy, 1 to 2 feet high; leaves broadly linear, flat, nearly eiiualling the stems;
perennial from tubers borne at the end of short horizontal rootstocks, the annual
stems arising from the previous year's tubers. The species seems able to endure
any amount of alkali, as it was found in dry alkali-lake beds where no other
vegetation seemed able to exist. Granger, July 30 (3871); Laramie, August 30
(4462).

Scirpus americaiius Pers. (American Rush).— Long, rather slender triangular
stems; spikelets small, clustered capitate, overtopped by the single involucral
leaf. A common rush in most of the bogs of the region, but especially so in the
saline bogs and marshes adjaceut to IJitter Creek, in the desert. I'iue Bluffs,
July 7 (3650) ; Laramie, August 30 (4468).

Scirpus lacustris L. (Great Bulimsu). — Stems stout, cylindrical, smooth, and
erect, spikelets umbellately clustered. JJardy wholly absent from fresh-water
bogs throughout this range. Pine Bluffs, July 7 (36r)l) ; North Vermilion Creek,
July 17 (3767).

Scirpus microcarpus Presl. (Small-iruitei) Bulrush).— Krect, 3 to 4 feet high;
leaves abundant and large; spikelets very numerous in an open inlloresence
which approaches a compound umbel. This species prefers fresh-water ponds or
the banks of slow flowing streams. It occurs in some abundance in many of the
wetter meadows, where it constitutes a iierceptible part of the hay i)rodu(t.
Woods Landing, August 7, (3911): Grand Encampment, August 13 (407S).

Carex acuta tenuior Bailey. — A species of sedge with very slender leaves and
stems, 9 to 15 inches high, growing in almost unbreakable clumps on the mar-
gins of lakes and ponds. Infrequent; Battle Lake, August 16 (4039).

Carex athrostachya Olney. — A slender stemmed sedge producing an abundance of
excellent leaves, a valuable ingredient in many wet meadows. Centennial ^'aI-
ley, July 2 (3280) ; Wood's Landing, Big Laramie Kiver, August 7 (3898) ; Grand
Encampment, August 13 (4000); Medicine Bow River, August 21 (4092).

Carex atrata L. (Black Sedge). — Another sedge with long, slender stems and
numerous broad root-leaves about half the length of the stem. It forms only a
scattering growth among the rocky ledges in subalpine regions. Battle Lake
Mountain, August 17 (4065).

Carex aurea Nutt. (Golen-fruited Seuge). — A small form, from a few to several
inches in height, llexuous stems and ilat, light-green leaves, occurring about
springs and in wet meadows, but rarely in suflicieut amount to have any eco-
nomic significance. Evanston, .July 28 (3854).

Carex deflexa media Bailey (Northern Skdce). — This forms close units, some-
times of great size; the leaves are especially numerous, and though it rarely
exceeds 0 inches in height it has the appearance of being one of the best pasture
grasses of the higher slopes and ridges in our mountains. Battle Lake Mouu tain,
August 17 (4016).

Carex douglasii Boott (Douglas's Sudoe).— A low eaespitose form that deve]o|.s
early, usualy only a few inches high, but at maturity as much as ;i foot high in
some, localities. The heads are large and the leaves of excellent (juality. It
is an important ])art of the pasture in some of the localities investigated. Evans-
ton, May 29 (3017); Laramie River, June 18 (3188); Centennial Valley, July 3
(3288); Wagon Hound Creek, August 21 (4402).

Carex fe.stiva stricta Bailey. — This tine looking sedge prefers wet ])laces, especially
pond and creek 1)ank8. It produces an abundance of excellent leaves and is no
doubt readily eaten by stock. As an admixture in wet meadows it would be of
value. Green Top, June 29 (3255); Head of Vermilion Creek, July 20 (3701);
Evanston, .luly 28 (3862).

51

Carex festiva viridis Bailey. — Somewhat resembling the preceeding, but larger and
more leafy; bright green; seemingly it is a form belonging to the higher moun-
tains. Battle Lake, August 16 (4012).

Carex fllifolia Nutt. (THUEAD-i.fiAFED Sedge). — A densely tufted form with very
slender stems and leaves, somewhat stiff, and only a few inches high; not com-
mon, occurring on dry ridges and plains in the eastern part of the State, where
it undoubtedly forms a part of the early summer range pasture. Pine Bluffs,
May 15 (2895).

Carex geyeri I'.oott (Geykr's Sedge).— A very leafy form, 6 to 9 inches high, rare
and scattering, only a few specimens found among the broken, granite rock at
subalpine heights. Battle Lake Mountain, August 17 (4063).

Carex hoodii Boott (Hood's Skdge). — Stems long and slender; an abundance of
line leaves. It has the aiipearauce of being a good forage plaut, but it is not
abuiulant. As it is a hunch sedge and belongs to high mountain regions it is
doubtful whether any use can be made of it under cultivation. Battle Lake,
August 16 (4033).

Carex jonesii Bailey (Jones's Sedge). — A .sedge of the mountain swamps, scattering
in growth, 2 feet or more in height. Battle Lake, August 16 (4015).

Carex lanuginosa Michx. (Woolly Sedge).— This slender-stemmed sedge, with its
wealth of Ion<r, hue leaves, seems to the writer to be the most desirable of the
sedges for hay purposes. While it abounds in swamps, yet it will grow where
the soil is simply wet. It forms a very dense growth, and it seems that in
meadows too wet for the better grasses or where natural flooding occurs that
tliis may be worthy of introduction. I'ine Bluffs, July 7 (3653); north fork Ver-
milion Creek, July 19 (3768) ; Evanston, July 27 (3831) ; Granger, July 30 (3882) ;
Grand Eucampment, August 13 (.3988).

Carex marcida Boott. (Clustered Field-sedge).— Perennial from horizontal root-
stocks, from which arise numerous stems, 12 to 20 inches high, from the lower
part of which spring numerous narrow leaves somewhat shorter than the stems.
This is one of tlie most valuable sedges that was found in the native meadows.
It thrives in wet ground, but will also do well on comparatively dry ground. It
usually is found as an admixture witli other forage plants, l)ut in a few instances
it was found as a pure growth on the drier ground of the bottom lands. It is
considered valuable as a hay crop, and the writer knows that it is closely grazed
down where stock have access to it. North Vermilion Creek, July 19 (3770) ;
Granger, .July 30 (3873) ; Grand Eucampment Creek, August 13 (4001).

Carex marcida alterna liailey.— This forui is very similar to the preceding in its
habit of growth. In one locality it was found very abundant on both the drier
and wetter ground of the meadows. Wagon Hound Creek, August 21 (4401).

Carex multinoda Bailey (Maxy-jointed Sedge).— A particularly handsome sedge,
the numerous flat, green leaves and the slender stems, surmounted by compara-
tively large heads, give it the appearance of a valuable i>]aut. It is, however,
a bog form and hence difficult to utilize. Centennial Valley, July 2 (3275);
"G," Summer ranch, July 23 (3822) ; Grand Encampment Creek, August 13 (3996).

Carex nebraskensis Dewey (Nebraska Skdge).— This swamp sedge is very vari-
able in size, but often attains a height of 2 feet or more. The leaves are very
abundant, relatively broad and often nearly as long as the stems, on which are
borne two to four large cylindrical heads. Though the hay produced from it
will not weigh very heavy in proportion to the bulk, yet it must be considered
as a valuable product. In meadows that are flooded early in the season it
constitutes a considerable part of the whole hay crop. Pine Blufls, July 7
(3654); Evanston, July 27 (38.30); Cooper Hill, August 22 (4409).

Carex nebraskensis praevia Bailey.— Green Top, June 29 (3256); Medicine Bow

Kiver, August 21 (4094).
Carex nigrescens C. A. Meyer. — Springing from underground root-stocks, producing
an abundance of short root leaves, few naked stems, 6 to 9 inches high; in wet

52

places in the alpine regions of the mountains. Battle Lake Mountain, Anirnst
17 (4042).
Carex nova Bailey (The New Sedge).— Erect and slender, stemmed with short Hat
leaves; 15 to 25 inches high; somewhat scattering, in the wet spruce woods ;ind
along the creeks in the mountains. Probably of value as pasture. Battle Lake,
August 16 (4007).
Carex preslii Steud. (Presl's Sedge).— A. tufted alpine form with numerous soft,
slender leaves that are greatly relished by grazing animals; 8 to 10 inches high.
Battle Lake Mountain, August 17 ^4053).
Carex pyreuaica Wahl.— A very suiall, tufted form, only a few inches high, strictly
alpiue, observed only about the permanent snowdrifts on the mountains. Baltic
Lake Mountain, August 17 (4058).
Carex raynoldsii Dewey (Raynolds' Sedge).— Erect but weak stemmed, leaves
broad and Ihit; the short cylindrical heads usually two, a foot or more high;
rare and very scattering. Battle Lake, August 16 (4020).
Carex scirpoidea Michx. (Rush-like Sedge).— Erect with an abundance of short
root leaves, only 6 to 10 iuches high. It develops early on wet ground on bottom
lauds and so furnishes a perceptible part of the spring pasture. Pine Blufls, May
15 (2901); Laramie, May 31 (2943),
Carex siccata Dewey (Hillside Sedge).— From strong, tufted root-stocks, slender
stems and numerous leaves as long as the stems. This is a dry-ground sedge,
being abundant on fertile hillsides, where it develops early and gives much
valuable pasture. Evanston, May 29 (3001); also frequently collected in the
Laramie Hills.
Carex stenophylla Wahl. (Dwarf Sedge).— This is the earliest on the Laramie
plains, but in many places it also maintains itself till late in the season. It
often forms a fairly uniform growth, but its small size (4 to 6 inches in htight)
and slenderuess make it seem rather insignificant. As spring pasture on the
plains, it has value. Colorado-Wyomiug line, Sweetwater County, July 23
(3803); Grand Encampment Creek, August 13 (3991).
Carex tenella Schk. (Soft-leafed Sedge).— A very delicate, slender-stemmed and
soft-leafed plant, a foot or less high, usually in damp, shaded places; never
observed in sufficient abundance to have any economic signiticance. Woods
Creek, August 9 (.3941).
Carex tolmiei Boott.— A stout, mountain form with long, broad leaves, a foot or so
high, usually as strongly root-tufted bunches. Not abundant enough to have
much signiticance but evidently relished by grazing animals. Battle Lake,
August 16 (4005 and 4072).
Carex trichocarpa aristata Bailey (Awned Sedge),— One of the largest of the
sedges, stems thick and producing a succession of heads, the leaves broad, flat,
and often overtopping the stems, the whole producing a very dense growth 3 to
4 feet high. It prefers very wet ground, but produces abntidantly on ground
that dries out in late summer. I have seen considerable areas yielding an
immense amount of forage harvested with the usual niadiinery. Laramie, Sep-
tember 15 (4469).
Carex trichocarpa imberbis Gray (?).— This is much smaller than the pre«ediug
with longer, denser heads; somewhat tufted and usually growing in the margins
of creeks or ponds; not plentiful. North Vermilion Creek, .July 20 (3S02).
Carex utriculata minor Boott. (Small Bottle Sedge).- A rank-growing sedge
of the wettest ground, with thick stems and Jong, broad leaves, often 2 or 3 feet
in lieight; heads usually three to four on each culm. It is very abundant and
wididy distriinited; on grounds that become sufficiently dry to admit of it, it is
cut and is said to Ibrm fair hay. Head of North Vermilion Creek, July 20
(3801); Evanston, July 28 (3861); Johnson's Ranch, Big Laramie, Augusts
(3><96) ; Battle Lake, August 16 (4036),

53

Carex vallicola Dewey. — Soft-leaved aiid slender stemmed, less tlian a foot high;

oil (he hiilsides, uot abimdunt. Hvanstoii, May 29 (3000).
Carex variabilis Bailey (?). — A slender, erect form usually found in the margins of

streams, 12 to 20 inches. Pine Bluffs, May 15 (2900).
Carex variabilis elatior Bailey. — A bunch sedge of the most pronouuced sort, so

tufted that it can scarcely he broken up, leaves abundant and stems fruiting

freely, 20 to 30 inches higli. Probably of small economic value. Woods Creek,

August 9 (3937) ; Glrand Encampmeut, August 13 (3985).
Carex eleocharis I>ailey (?). — Filiform stems and leaves from tiiberous root-stocks,

only 5 to 8 inches high. It makes a very close growth and has the aspect of an

Eleocharis. In the locality where it was secured it was exceedinaly abundant

in the drier parts of the meadows, even to forming continuous sods. Big Creek,

August 11 (3972).
Carex sp. — A small, leafy species, 6 to 8 inches high, somewhat tufted and forming

a considerable growth on saline ground bordering some lakes. Little Laramie

Kiver, July 24 (3445).

OTHER FORAGE PLANTS.

Besides the grass-like plants given in the preceding list there are
many in the region designated the summer range, that furnish much
browsing during the summer months, but these need not be mentioned
in detail here. It is sufficient to call attention to the following as
among the more important:

First in importance are Legriminosce, which throughout the entire
range are abundaiitly represented. Species of Astragalus abound
everywhere and many of tlieni are freely eaten. In view of the fact
that some {Astragalus nioUissimus, etc.) have reputed poisonous proper-
ties, it is a question yet to be solved how generally they may be
accepted as forage plants. Species of Thermopsis, abundant in some
localities, are not without suspicion of having injurious properties.
Among the legumes that pass unchallenged may be named the clovers
{Trifolium longipes ^STutt., and other species) and Hedysarum (//. ameri-
canum liritt. and H. mackcnzii Kich.), all of which are of frequent occur-
rence and in some localities abundant. These are greatly relislied by
stock and furnish an important part of the pasture.

In the eastern i>art of the State another genus that is particularly
well represented is Psoralea, the following species being abundant: P.
laneeolata Pursh, P. UnearifoUa T. & G., and P. temiiftora Pnrsh. Of
the valne of these species the writer can not speak for he does uot even
know that stock feed upon them.

Attention may be called to the following list, the plants of which are
abundant in the summer range as well as in the desert. (For more or
less conq)lete notes ui)on their economic value see the JJed Desert list
(l). li4) in which they have been individually considered.)

Astragalus. Chenopodium.

Liipinus. Sarcobatns.

Vicia, Sueda.

Atriplex. Eriogonum.

Eurotia lanata. Artemisia.

54

FLORA OF THE RED DESERT.

The Red Desert is a fairly distinct area, an area with a flora peculiar
to and characteristic of an arid, saline region. Its plants are there-
fore listed separately, and all vascular forms that were secured are
included, whether they are forage plants or not. This is done to indi-
cate as fully as possible the real character of the vegetation and thus,
by inference, the economic possibilities of the region.

The following list of plants is based upon specimens secured during
the summer of 181)7 along the line of the Union Pacific Railroad, from
Pine Bluft's, on the eastern border, to Evanston, on the western border
of the Desert. There are represented, besides the districts contiguous
to the road, localities both north and south, some of which are from 40
to 70 miles distant from it. As the following are but the collections of
one season, they must fall far short of constituting the complete flora
of the region.

CONIFERiE.

Juniperiis knightii A. Nels. (Desert Juniper). — UsTially a shrub-like tree, much
branched from the base, but occasionally more arboreous. Common in the sand-
stone bluffs along fitter Creek and its tributaries. (See p. 7.) Point of Rocks,
June 1 (3096); Eock Springs, .luly 26.

SCHEUCHZERIACEiE.

Triglochin maritima L. (Seaside Arrow-grass). — A low, tender, herbaceous plant,
6 to 10 inches high, abundant on wet alkali flats; possibly eaten by stock to
some extent. South Butte, July 13 (3748).

GRAMINEiE.

Stipa comata Trin. &■ Kupr. (Needle-grass). — A loosely spreading bunch grass,
easily known by the long, twisted awns that tbe fruits bear. A grass of some
forage value and readily eaten by stock in the autumn and winter after the long,
vicious beards have fallen. Bitter Creek, July 12 (3700).

Stipa lettermani Vasey (Lkttkkmax's Nekdlk-(;rass). — A slender form with short
awns, growing as a bunch grass among the sage-brush on the dry summits of
the hills. Probably in itself valuable, but only occurs in small quantity. South
Butte, July 13 (3738).

Stipa nelsoni Scribn. (Nki-son's Needle-grass). — A tall grass, with very long
beads and awns of medium length, foniiing small and ratlu^r loose bunches, with
a fair amount of leaves; usually fouml in ()])eii-timbcrt'd areas, but also among
the sagebrush on the sl(>])es below the pennaiient winter snowbanks; not })len-
tiful. Fiftecn-iMilc Si)rings, July 13 (3731).

Eriocoma cuspidata Nutt. (Indian Millet, see fig. 2). — A widely distributed
bunch grass, from a few inches to a foot or more in height, easily known by its
peculiarly branched pauich^s and tbe large, softly silky seeds. It is a glass of
much value. Point of Rocks, June 1 (3094); Red Desert, June 3 (3122); Wam-
sutter, July 10 (3680); Creston, August 28 (4416).

Sporobolus airoides Torr. (Fine-top Salt-grass, see fig. 6). — This grass forms
patches of various sizes on the huumiocks and drier ridges of bottom lands.
The sod seems stitf and the stems, while somewhat slender, are also rather rigid.
It forms, however, in some localities much valuable pasture. Black Rock
Springs, July 13 (3723); Creeu River, September I (4457).

55

Sporobolus depaiiperatiis Scribn. (Dropseed). — A small hut valuable grass, form-
lug a close, eveu sod of numerous slender leaves and stems; valuable as pasture,
but of rare occuri^euce in the desert. South Butte, July 13 (3745) ; Creston,
August 29 (4425).

Calamagrosti-s hyperborea americaiia Kearn. (Sand-grass; Yellow Top). — A tall,
slender grass, usually forming an even growth, on wet ground in either open or
shaded places. Kara in the desert,
occurring only about spring bogs.
Black Rock Springs, July 13 (3717).

Calamagrostis neglecta Gaertn. (Pony-
grass). — An erect grass usually
found in the margins of ponds and
ditches, forming an even growth and
bearing an abundance of slender
leaves ; a fine appearing and valuable
grass. South Butte, July 13 (3750).

Deschampsia caespitosa Beau v.
(Tufted Hair-grass). — A bunch
grass with slender stems and numer-
ous leaves, common throughout the
State, sometimes in comparatively
dry ground, but usually along
streams and about spring bogs. It
furnishes much pasture, but after it
matures and dries on the ground it
does not seem to be relished by stock.
Black Rock Springs, .Inly 13 (3718);
Fifteen-mile Springs, July 14 (3727).

Koeleria cristata Pers. (Prairie June-
grass).— A straight, slender grass
with cylindrical heads, forming small
tufts, 8 to 12 inches high. Common on
the plains and in the hills, and form-
ing an important part of the early
pasture ; far from common in the Red
Desert. Creston, August 28 (4417).

Catabrosa aquatica Beauv. (Water
WHORL-(iRASS, fig. 22). — A soft,
watery grass, usually with stems
partly prostrate and rooting in the
soft mud of the sluggish streams and
spring-led bogs, where it abounds.
Horses and cattle eat it readily and
will wade knee-deep in the mud to secure it. South Butte, July 13 (3734).

Distichlis spicata Greene. (Salt-grass; Alkali-grass). — A stiff, pale, harsh grass,
occurring on alkali flats, even where the ground is white with salt. Though far
from the best, it is eaten down by stock where other forage is scarce. Black
Rock Springs, July 13 (3722).

Poa buckleyana Nash. (Bunch-grass). — A slender-stemmed, narrow-leafed bunch-
grass of much value in this State, but of small significance in the Desert proper.
On some of the luoister slopes and draws it becomes of some importance. Green
River, June 1 (3067) ; Bitter Creek, June 2 (3100) ; Creston, August 28 (4418).

Poa juncifolia Scribn. (Alkali Blue-grass, PI. V).— A small, erect bunch-grass
with slender, pointed leaves. This new species belongs to the arid region, but
it is not confined to the desert exclusively. Usually of scattering growth, it
sometimes forms almost a continuous sod. Reported as one of the desirable

Fig. 22. — "Water Whorl-grass {Catabi-osa aquat-
ica) : a, 6, apikelets ; c, d, florets.

56

pasture grasses, and would probably be of value as a meadow grass, especially
where the soil and the irrigatiou waters are not of the best. Black liock
Bntte, July 13 (3721).

Poa laevigata Scribn. (Smooth Bunch-grass). — ^This species is found throughout
the southern ]tart of the State, in the desert as well as in the hills and moun-
tains, sometimes in comparatively dry places, l)ut preferring moist banks and
wet Hats. It forms a valuable part of the early summer forage. Red Desert,
June 3 (3118); Pole Creek, June 19 (3197); Wamsutter, July 10 (3668): Bitter
Creek, July 12 (3708); Point of Rocks, July li (3751).

Poa lucida Vasey (Shixixg Buxch-grass. )— A grass of more than usual importance.
It grows to a height of 1 or 2 feet, producing numerous stems and broad
leaves of excellent quality. It constitutes an api>reciable part of the forage in
the desert as well as in the summer range. It is found on the dry plains, but is
more abundant and luxuriant in the vicinity of spring bogs and creeks. Point
of Rocks, June 1 (3093) ; Bitter Creek, July 12 (3707) ; South Butte, July 13 (3733).

Poa sheldoni Vasey (Sheldon's Blue-grass).— Bitter Creek, July 12 (3696).

Puccinellia airoides Wats. & Coult. (Alkali Meadow-grass).— This slender, erect
o-rass is seldom seen except in the margins of ponds and ditches, and seems to
prefer water with a considerable percentage of alkali. Whether it could be
introduced to advantage on wet alkali groun<l the writer is unable to say. but
that stock will readily eat it when fresh is well known. Bitter Creek July 12
(3687); Black Rock Springs, July U (3715); South Butte, July 14 (3737).

Agropyron dasystachy-um siibvillosiim S. & S. (Northf.i:x Wheat-grass).— An
erect grass with slender heads and numerous slender, somewhat spreading root-
leaves. On the dry plains it is of small size (6 to 10 inches high), but on bottom
lands or under irrigation it makes a luxuriant growth. It cures readily on the
ground and forms a valuable part of the winter pasture and must also be reck-
oned among the valuable meadow grasses. Wamsutter, July 9 (3679); Fifteen-
Mile Springs, July 14 (3730).

Agropyron spicatum S. «S: S. (Westerx Wheat-grass).— A somewhat coarse and
harsh wheat-grass but nevertheless of much value ; not abundant in the desert
but in some of the draws in sufficient amount to possess forage value. Wam-
sutter, July 10 (3672) ; Black Rock Butte, July 14 (3724).

Agropyron spicatum molle S. & S. — This seemed to be the commonest of the wheat
grasses in some parts of the desert, as, for instance, in the clay gumbo on the
banks of Bitter Creek. It impresses one as a grass that wonld be of value in
meadows where soil and irrigation water are both of poor (piality. Wamsutter,
July 10 (3674); Bitter Creek, July 12 (3706); Point of Rocks. July 12 (3713).

Agropyron tenerum Vasey (Slender Wheat-grass).— A slender-stemmed grass
with very slender heads and rather sparsely leaved, from 15 to 30 inches high.
Probably the most important wheat-grass in southern Wyoming. Bitter Creek,
July 12 (3709); South Butte, July 13 (3736).
Agropyron tenerum ciliatum S. & S.— In general appearance and in value much
like the preceding but of rarer occurrence; hence among the native forage of
little importance, though under cultivation and irrigation it has proved a most
desirable form. Wamsutter, July 11 (3677).
Agropyron vaseyi S. &, S. (Vasey's Wheat-grass). — This forms dense bunches of
some inches or even a foot in height. It will hardly be thought of as a wheat-
grass on account of the numerous spr<'ading awns, but it is a valuable grass on
account of the early forage it furnishes on otherwise barren slopes and shaly
hilltops. Stock eat it readily, especially while it is young. Bitter Creek, July
12 (3695).
Hordeum jubatum L. (Squirrel-tail grass).— This, so commonly called fox-tail
in this region, is too well known to need any description. It is the most unde-
sirable grass of the West. Though considered an annual, it will probably be

57

fouiul to be longer lived in some places at least; common in tlie desert in many
wet alkaline places, especially along the railroad. Wamsutter, July 10 (3670).

Hordeum nodosuna L. (Meadow Barley). — A slender bunch grass, or sometimes
a rather continuous and uniform growth, forming small meadow-like tracts on
saline flats and basins. It is a liglit grass, and the short-bearded heads soon
break up when mature, but if cut early and cured would probably make fair
hay. Bitter Creek, July 12 (3692); South Butte July 13 (3746).

Elymus condensatus Presl. (OJiant
Rye-CtKass).— A tall, coarse grass
growing in dense blanches. It is
common in the deeper draws and
on the slopes below the permanent
winter snowdrifts. Wamsiitter, July
10(367.5) ; Fifteen-mile Springs, July
11 (3728).

Elymus salinus Jones (Dksekt Rye-
(UtA.ss, fig. 23). — Varying from a
small, erect form of scattering
growth to a coarse, harsh plant a
foot or more in height, forming close
tufts. It seems to be peculiar to dry,
poor soil, usually occupying the dri-
est ridges and benches of the second
bottom or the sand dunes of the foot-
hills. Only rarely does it form a uni-
form, continuous growth. It seems
that it might prove a valuable grass
for certain kinds of soil, both for
pasture and hay. A very moderate
amountof water for irrigation would
probably suffice to secure fair re-
sults. Green River, May 31 (3059);
Bitter Creek, July 12 (3694) ; Point
of Rocks, August 30 (44.36).

Sitaiiion elymoides Raf. (Loxc-
BEARDED Wild-Rye). — A Small
bunch grass with wide-spreading
awns. It can hardly be pronounced
other than worthless. It has not
only formidable beards, but it ma-
tures early, becomes brittle, and
soon goes to pieces and is blown
away. Green River, May 31 (3058) ;
Wamsutter. July 10 (3669).

Fig. 23.-

-Desert Rye-grass {Elymus salinus) : a,
empty glumes ; 6, Horets.

CYPERACEiE.

Eleocharis palustris R. & S. (Common Spike-rush).— Slender stems 10 to 18
inches high ; spikes narrowly oblong. An exceedingly common form in the saline
bo^sof the desert; especially abundant on the low banks of Bitter Creek, where
it was freely browsed by the horses on the emigrant trail. Bitter Creek, July

12 (3689).

Eleocharis sp.— Much smaller than the preceding, with short, oblong spikes, mak-
ing a dense growth on the black, mucky bogs about springs in the desert.
Readily eaten by our horses while we were in camp. Black Rock Springs, July

13 (3719).

Scirpus americanus Pers. (American Bulrush).— Perennial from slender root-

58

etocka; stems triangular, erort, moderately stout ; leaves long and abundant.
Ixemarkably abundant on the banks of Bitter Creek and in somi^ of the spring
bogs. Fifteen Mile Springs, July 14 (3726); Point of Rocks, July 12 (3714);
South Butte, July 14 (3740).

Scirpus campestris Britt. (Pkairie BclrusiiV— An exceedingly leafy species
developed from tubers, which are annually produced at the end of short, hori-
zontal root-stocks. Bitter Creek, September 3 (44.")9).

Cc' rex marcida debilis Bailey. — This is a small sedge with numerous weak stems
from a thick, horizontal root-stock, only (> to 9 inches high; on the drier ridgea
about the spring bogs; not abundant. Black Rock Springs, .July 13 (3720).

Carex multinoda liailey. — This slender-stemmed sedge produces a large amount of
long, tender leaves, and forms a close sod. It is one of the most valuable from
a forage standpoint of the sedges of the desert. South Butte, .July 13 (373.^).

Carex uebraskensis Dewey (Nkbkaska Sei>ge). — Very leafy, the leaves broad,
almost as long as the stems. 1 to 2 feet or more in height. Usually in very wet
ground, such as ditches and meadow bogs. When these dry out in late summer
it is cut to a considerable extent for hay. It of course occurs in the desert only
rarely, but in some of the bogs it is quite almndant. South Butte, July 13 (3741).

Carex stenophylla Wahl. — A small, scattering form only a few inches high, usually
developiug early; among the sagebrusii in the desert it is too scattering to have
.any signiticance. Creston, August 2S (4415).

Carex teretiuscula Good. — This form has very slender, almost cylindrical leaves
and stems but makes a very (-lose and even growth on wet saliue soil, often in
pjitches of considerable size. Black Rock Springs, July 13 (3710 and 3725);
South Butte, July 13 (3734a).

JUNCACEiE.

Juncus balticus Willd. (Baltic Rush). — A well-known rush with rather rigid stems
which arise (juite regularly from a creeping, underground root-stock. It varies
greatly in both size and habitat. In wet ground, as in the juargins of a stream,
it may attain a height of 3 feet or more; on dry sandy slopes, where it was
sometimes found to occur in the desert, it may be scarcely a foot high. It proba-
bly has little forage value, though it is eaten to some extent with the other
vegetation when intermingled with it. I'oiut of Rocks, June 1 (3095); Bitter
Creek, July 12 (3690).

Juncus confusus Coville. — A slender form of compact growth, 10 to 15 inches
high. In some of the deeper draws in the desert where the spring snows lie
late this forms extensive patches of close sod. Whether it is eaten to any
extent by stock of any kind the writer is unable to say. Creston, August 29
(1427).

Juncus xiphioides moiitanus Kngelm. — Tall and slender with aiujile U.it leaves, 20
to 30 inches high. It is abundant in many of the spring bogs, aud seems to be
freely browsed by stock. South Butte, July 13 (3739).

LILIACE^J.

Allium mutabile Michx. (Wili> Oniox). — Peculiar among the wild onions in that
it sometimes produces little bulbs in the inflorescence. All of the specimens
colle(;ted bore bulblets. Not common. In a draw among the hills north of
Uotk Si)rings. The (iaj), .July 25 (3600).

Allium reticulatum Don. (Fkaskr's Wild Onion). — A common (brni on the slopes
of the hills throughout the ilesert. Green River, May 31 (3033;; Point of Rocks,
June 1 (3076).

SALICACEiE.

Salix cordata mackenzieana Hook. — This willow becomes a small, rather shapely
tu-c. It seems to be a very common form on the banks of Green River and some
of its tributary creeks. Green River, May 31 (30()6).

59

Salix fluviatilis Xutt. (River-baxk Willow). — This little alentler-stpmmed and
slender-lcafeil form so conimon on all creek and river banks seems to he equally
common on tb(; banks of Bitter Creek and its tributaries. It forms a green
fringe or even large patches on the low, salt-encrusted banks. Not usually
thought to have any value, but here in the desert occasionally browsed by sheep,
especially wben snow makes other feed hard to obtain. Bitter Creek, .June 2
(3102).

Salix bsbbiana Sargent. (Bebb's Willow). — It was something of a surprise to find
tMs willow in the heart of the desert. In a draw near the railroad at Creston,
August 27 (4270).

POLYGONACEiE.

Eriogomim campanulatum Nutt. (Narrow-leafed Eriogonum). — Often browsed
by cattle, but of no considerable value. The Gap, north of Rock Springs, July
25 (.3.597).

Eriogonum effusum Xutt. — A small, branched plant with a woody base, the young
stems tender and eaten by sheep; not plentiful. In the clay draws at the head
of Salt- Wells Creek, .July 17 (37.53).

Eriogonum ovalifolium Nutt. — A small ca^spitose plant, exceedingly common on
Ixith plains and hilis. There are several forms of it, the commoner one having
white flowers, but in the desert, wbere it is especially abundant, bright yellow
forms predominate. It is probably of no economic importance". Point of Rocks,
June 1 (3087) ; Bitter Creek, June 2 (3099) ; Red Desert, June 3 (3117).

Rumex tuberosum A. Nels. (TtiBEROXs Dock). — On some of the alkali-covered flats

adjacent to Bitter Creek this unusual plant was found. A dock springing from

large oblong tubers which lie shallowly buried in the loose, ash-like alkali soil.

From these the plants spring up early, the stems, a foot or more in height,

bearing long spikes of flowers; the large, bright-red wings of the fruits make

them very conspicuous on the otherwise almost naked ground. Bitter Creek,

June 2 (3114).

CHENOPODIACEiE.

Chenopodium album L. (Lamb's Quarters). — This well-known weed seems to be
at home even in the desert, except in the more pronounce<l of its alkali soils.
Wamsutter, .Inly 10 (3685); Bitter Creek, July 12 (3705).

Chenopodium fremontii Wats. (Fremont's Goosefoot). — A succulent, branched,
leafy plant, 1 to 2 feet high ; if growing thickly it is more slender and less leafy.
This must be placed among the plants of possible forage value. It thrives on
saline soil, in some localities making a pure growth, and if it can be shown that
it has forage value large crops of it can readily be grown. Wamsutter, July 10
(3671).

Chenopodium glaucum L. — This is a spreading form of goosefoot with thick,
fleshy leaves, and succulent stems. It thrives in soil impregnated with alkali,
and, as was said of the preceding one, if it has any value, lai'ge crops of it can
be grown on otherwise worthless alkali soils. Bitter Creek, .Inly 12 (3704).

Chenopodium leptophyllum Nutt. (Narrow-leafed Goosefoot). — A slender, wil-
lowy form, a foot or so in height. Bitter Creek, July 12 (3704a).

Blitum capitatum L. (Strawberry Bute). — This seems to be very rare, only a
few specimens being seen. South Butte, July 13 (3544).

Monolepis nuttalliana Greene. — A small, much branched, succulent plant, 5 to 7
inches high, common on saline soils throughout the West. Wamsutter, July 11
(3686).

Atriplex argentea Nutt. (Silvery Salt-sage). — A branched, annual plant, with
silvery leaves and stems, common about alkali lakes. Possibly it has forage
value during its season, but when mature it seems to become dry and worthless.
Howell Lakes, September I (1466).

Atriplex confertifolia (Toir. ) Wats. (Spiny Salt-sage.)— A much-branched,
spiny shrub, 15 to 20 inches high, inttducing early in the season a large amount

60

of thick, succnlent leaves and enormous quantities of flat, winged seeds. The
leaves and seeds are gre:rtly relished by sheep. Green River, May 31 (3044);
Bitter Creek, Jnly 12 (3701); Spring Creek, August 18 (4248); Point of Rocks,
August 30 (4431).
Atriplex expansa Wats. (Spreadixg Salt-sage). — A slender-branched, silvery
annual, with small, triangular leaves; common on alkali flats, wiiero it some-
times forms a continuous growth. To be of value it would have ro bo harvested
shortly before it was mature. If left to mature on the ground it is of little
value. Wanisutter, July 10 (3673).
Atriplex hastata Linn. (Spheadinu Ohaciie). — Usually a tall, coarse, weed-like
plant, often widely branched ; either on saline or on salt-free ground, dark green

or rarely somewhat scurfy. Probably
of little value. Mud Springs, July 16
(.37.52).
Atriplex nuttallii Wats. (Nuttall's Salt-
sage). — A perennial with shrubby
base and spreading branches; leaves
thick and succulent, numerous; seeds
abundant. This is the plant that the
sheep man has particularly in mind
when he speaks of salt-sage. It is the
most important forage plant of the
desert. Green River, May 31 (3060);
Red Desert, June 3 (3121) ; Wamsutter
July 10 (3667).
Atriplex pabularis A. Xels. (Xelson's
Salt-sage). — An erect, slender-
stemmed perennial, 8 to 16 inches
high, producing a large number of
succnlent leaves and much fruit. As
a promising fodder plant for strongly
saline soil it is certainly worthy of
trial. Point of Rocks, July 12 (3712) ;
August 30 (4429); Granger, July 30
(3893).
Atriplex truncata (iray. — A ranch-
branched, silvery annual that grows
luxuriantly on the saline soils of the
desert in many places. It would
yield a large quantity, if not very good
quality, of fodder if cut before maturity. Point of Rocks, August 30 (4430).
Eurotia lanata Moiiuin. (Winteu-tat; Sweet Sage). — A well-known, much-
branched i)laut, a foot or more high from a shrubby base, white, with long hairs
when yonng, darker when old. Exceedingly common throughout the region;
highly prized as sheep feed, ('Si)e(iiilly in the desert. Wamsutter, .Inly 10 (3682).
Kochia americana Wats. — A small plant, much branched from the woody base, 6
to 10 inches high. The tender annual shoots are eaten by stock, and form a part
of the spring forage; the younger twigs are also browsed to some extent during
the winter months. Green River, May 31 (3043); South P.utte, Jnly 13 (3743);
Point of li'ocks, August 30 (4439).
Sarcobatus vermiculatus Torr. (Gkease-wood, fig. 24.)— An erect ehmb with
spiny l)raiiches, very variable in si/e; usually not more than 2 or 3 feet high, but
sometimes (i or 8, with wide-spreading branches. Even this contributes to the
sheep feed in the desert, the slender, fleshy leaves and the numerous winged
seeds being greedily eaten, as well as the more tender twigs. Wamsutter, June 4
(3130); Bitter Creek, September 3 (4 l.")6).

Fig. 24.— (irea.se- wood {Sarcubatus vermiculatus).

61

Grayia spinosa Moqiiin. (Spiny-sage). — A branched, spiny shrub, with oblong,
thick, succulent leaves. It produces enovuious fjuantities of flat, wiuged seeds.
These, with the leaves, fall early, and are collected by the wind into little drifts
or inlea under the bushes and in the hollows of the ground. When sheep are
fed over the ground these leaf piles are the first to disappear. Abundant on the
slopes of the hills adjacent to Bitter Creek and its tributaries. Green River,
May 30 (3029) ; Bitter Creek, July 12 (3698).

Dondia diffusa Heller. — A small, succulent annual, a few inches in height; com-
mon on wet alkali flats. I'robably of small forage value. South Butte, July 13
(3749).

Dondia multiflora Heller (Shrubby Blitp:).— A small plant with numerous suc-
culent stems from a woody base, G to 12 inches high ; common in alkali basins
and on the banks of Bitter Creek. Its forage value unknown. Green River,
May 31 (3042).

Salsola tragus L. (Russian Thistle.)— A much-branched, succulent spiny annual,
becoming a tumbleweed when mature. It is still rare in the desert. Observed
only at Rock Springs and Green River.

NYCTAGINACEiE.

Abronia sp. — Probably a new species, but lacking fruits, without which it can not
be sullicieutly characterized for publication. On the dry bluffs. Green River,
May 30 (3021).

CARYOPHYLLACEiE.

Silene menziesii Hook. (Menzies's Pink). — A small, leafy, branching perennial,
growing on wet banks, varying in height from a few inches to a foot. Observed
but once in the desert. Bitter Creek, July 12 (3532).

Arenaria congesta Nutt. (Bunch Sandwort).— A small, erect plant, growing in
bunches 4 to 6 inches high, with grass-like stems and leaves, and bearing a
globular head of flowers. It is not known whether this is eaten by stock. Very
abundant ou some of the sage-brush sIojjcs in the desert. South Butte, July 13
(3732).

Arenaria hookeri Nutt. (Hooker's Sandwort).— A strongly matted plant, only a
few inches high, with rigid, pointed leaves and white, star-like flowers. Com-
mon on dry, rocky points. Green River, June 1 (3069).

Arenaria nuttallii Pax. (Nuttall's Sandwort). — A low plant with spreading stems

and pointed leaves, occasional on the driest, shaly slopes. Green River, May 31

(3054 J.

RANUNCULACEiE.

Oxygraphis cymbalaria Prantl. (Seaside Crowfoot or Buttercup).— A low,
smooth buttercup, si)readiug by runners; common on wet or marshy saline
soil everywhere. Noted in very many places in the desert.

CRUCIFERiE.

Stanleya pinnata Britton.— Erect, with entire or incised leaves, 2 to 3 feet high;

flowers yellow, in a long spike. Green River, May 30 (3034).
Stanleya pinnata integrifolia Robs.— Somewhat similar to the preceding, but with

all the leaves entire. Rock Springs, July 25 (3.596).
Thelypodinm sp.— A slender, branching form, occasionally seen on the Green River

blufls ; the species not yet determined. May 30 (3034o).
Lepidium medium Greene (Western Peppergrass). — A much-branched annual,

6 to 12 inches high. Flowers very numerous, inconspicuous. Abundant in some

of the sandy draws of the desert. Point of Rocks,- June 1 (3092).
Lepidium montanum Nutt. (Large-flowered Peppergrass). — Tufted perennial

with numerous stems, 4 to 8 inches high; petals white and unusually large for

the genus. It seems to jjrefer saline soil. Bitter Creek, June 2 (3106).

62

SisyniDriuni canescens Nnfct. — A slender, branching mustard with yellow flowers;

the most abundant mustard in the desert, sometimes f'ormini;' considerable fields

of yellow among the sage-brush on sandy slopes, or in the draws. Point of

Rocks, June 1 (3078); Wamsntter, June 4 (3126).
Sisymbrium liuifolium Xutt. — A mustard with slender stems, simple or several

from the base; leaves entire or nearly so, smooth. Verj^ abundant in many

places throughout southern Wyoming. Wamsutter, June 4 (3127).
Physaria sp. ( ? ). — A small, leafy perennial of the double bladder-pod crucifers.

Kather abundant on the dry shale cliffs. Green River, May 30 (.3032).
Bursa bursa-pastoris Britton (Shepherd's Purse). — This was noted in several

places along tlie railroad.
Draba glacialis Adams (Whitf.ow-cras.s). — A small, tufted crucifer, scarcely more

than 1 inch high. Green River, June 1 (3071).
Arabis cauescens Nutt. (Ashy Rock-cress). — A slender, sparingly branched ])er-

eanial, about 1 foot high, conmion in some sandy draws among the sage-brush.

Point of Rocks, .lune 1 (3077).
Arabis brebneriana A. Nels. (Brkrner's Rock-cress). — A form rare in the locality.

Fort Steele, June 5 (3135).
Streptanthus longirostris Wats. — Sparingly branched, from 1 to 2 feet high ; fre-
quent ou the san<ly river bottom. Green River, May 31 (3040) ; Point of Rocks,

June 1 (3082).

CAPPARIDACE^.

Cleome lutea Hook. (Yellow Cleome). — An erect, glabrous, somewhat branched
lierl), 1 to 2 feet high, tlowers yellow, and the pod borne on a long, slender stipe.
Abundant on the sandy bottoms. Green River, May 31 (3046).

SAXIFRAGACEiE.

Heuchera parvifolia Nutt. — Perennial from a thick root, with a rosulate cluster of
root-leaves ami slender leafless stems, bearing sliort spike-like jtanicles of small
flowers, 9 to 18 inches high. Infrequent; on tlie slopes below the winter snow-
drifts. South Butte, .luly 13 (3.540).

Philadelphus occidentalis A. Nels. (Western Syringa). — A branched shrub, 3 to .5
feet high, peculiar to dry, desert canyons. It was an agreeable surprise to find
a clump of this syringa iu one of the canyons near Rock Springs, July 15 (3595).

ROSACEiE.

Holodiscus dumosus TTeller. — A branched shrub, 2 to ."> feet high; very rare within
the borilers of tlic desert; only below the permanent Avinter snowdrifts. South
Butte, July 13 (3536).

Potentilla glandulosa Lindl. (Glandclar Cinquefoil). — A handsome perennial
plant, some 18 to 30 iu(;hes high, sparingly branched; flowers yellow. Only on
moist slopes below snow banks. South Butte, .July 13 (3534).

Potentilla anserina L. (Silver-weed). — A tufted, spreading plant, common on wet,
saline soil everywhere in the desert as well as elsewheie iu the State.

Gaum macrophyllum Willd. (Lar(;i:-leai"ED Avens). — A ptjrennial herb, a foot or
two in height, sometimes l)ranched above, with large, lobed root-leaves ou long
])etioles. Infrequent; on the moist slopes below the winter snow lianks. South
Butte, .luly 13 (3.543).

Cercocarpus parvifolius H. & A. (Mountain Mahoc.anv). — A stiff, scraggy shrub,
3 to 6 feet liigh; common on rocky slo])e.s throne iiout the southern part of the
State. Observed in several i)lace8 in the desert ou the vviuter snow slopes.

63

DRUPACEiE.

Prunus demissa Walp. (Western Wild Cherry).— A shrub or small tree, vary-
ing greatly iu size in different situations. In the desert it occurs only below
the brow of some of the steeper hills, where the winter snows become piled and
remain late in the season. Observed in a few localities and collected at The
Gap, south of Kock Springs, July 25 (3599).

PAPILIONACEiE.

Lupinus argenteus Pursh. (Silvery lupine).— A perennial, bushy, branched plant,
1 to 2 feet high, bearing long, dense spilces of purple flowers ; pods, silvery, silky,
and containing only a lew large seeds. In some of the grassy draws among
the hills. Creston, August 29 (4428) The lupines set'iii to thrive in the desert,
and if it could be shown that they have any economic value they could undoubt-
edly be cultivated.
Lupinus leucophyllus Dougl.— Somewhat similar to the i>receding, but occupying
drier situations. The driest bluffs and ridges do not seem to be unsuited to
it. It is by far the commonest lupine in the desert, and great crops of it were
observed even on the suniuiits of the white Green River bluffs. Green River,
May 30 (3023) ; Bitter Creek, June 3 (3109) ; Fifteen-Mile Spring, July 13 (3729).

Astragalus grayii Parry (Gray's Milk-vetch).— A small, erect form, 8 to 12 inches,
with yellowish-white flowers iu a rather short raceme. Scattering and rare.
Bitter Creek, June 3 (3115) and July 12 (3.530).

Astragalus haydenianus uevadeusis Jones.— This form was collected and noted
in several places. Of unknown forage value. Bitter Creek, June 3 and July 12
(3116 and 3711).

Astragalus hypoglottis L. (Purple Milk-vetch).— A low, spreading plant, only a
few inches high, but often forming compact beds. It has the appearance of
making excellent pasture, and looks as if it might be a good substitute for
clover. Stock graze it down in some localities, and it is said that as an ingre-
dient of hay, sheep pick this out flrst. It thrives on saline soil even where
there is an excess of alkali, as for example on the low banks of Bitter Creek.
There is no reason to think that it would be more difficult to secure a crop of
this than of many other plants that are used for forage. The question that
remains to be settled is. Are the plants of this genus nutritious and safe? Some
of the species have reputed poisonous qualities; for example, A. mollinsimnH, one
of the "locos.'' It is yet to be determined which are the valuable and safe
species. Bitter Creek, July 12 (3688).

Astragalus megacarpus Gray (Large Bladder-pod Vetch).— A spreading succu-
lent plant with large, thin, inflated pods and small seeds. This also thrives iu
saline soil, forming large, green mats on the alkaline flats of Bitter Creek ; June
3 (3113).

Astragalus sp. — An erect, slender-stemmed and slender-leafed form, found in the
sandy slopes of the Bitter Creek hills. Point of Rocks, June 1 (3081).

Vicia dissitifolia Greem- (American Vetch),- A slender-stemmed, vine-like plant,
climbing over other plants among Avhich it is growing; vines 2 to 3 feet in
length; accounted most excellent forage. On several occasions stockmen have
brought specimens saying "If you can tell us how to secure enough of this we
will be satisfied; we want nothing better." It makes excellent hay; sheep
especially do well upon it. It is widely distributed, but rarely forms anything
like a full crop of forage. The possibilities under cultivation are yet to be
determined. Bitter Creek, July 12 (3703).

Vicia linearis Greene (Narkow-leafed American Vetch).— Very similar to the
preceding, but smaller iu every way, with very narrow leaves. Equally valu-
able as forage, but not abundant. Bitter Creek, June 2 (3104).

64

LINACEiE.

Linum le^visii Pursh. (Lewis's Wild Flax), — A plant with slender leaves and
wand-like stems arising from a woody, perennial root, 1 to 2 feet high; common
in the Wtate, but rare in the desert. Red Desert, June 3 (3119).

ANACARDIACEiE.

Rhus trilobata Nutt. (Stinking Sumach). — A small, glabrous, branching shrub;
leaves, three-lobed; very common on dry ridges and canyon sides. Green River,
May 31 (3065).

MALVACEiE.

Malvastrum coccineum Gray (Red False Mallow). — A much-branched perennial
herb, with silvery leaves and large, red flowers. Plant not more than a few
inches high. Green River, May 31 (3057).

LOASACEiE.

Meutzelia sp. ( ?). — A small form not yet determined; possibly new.

CACTACEiE.

Echinocactus simpsoni minor Engelm. — A small, globular cactus; infrequent.

South Butte, July 13 (3.-)53).
Opuntia polyacantha Haw. (Many-spined Opuntia). — Composed of many flat,

obovate joints, flercely spiny. Very abundant. Wamsutter, .July 11 (3523).
Opuntia polyacantha platycarpa Coulter. — In general appearance very similar to

the preceding. Both are here often called Prickly Pear cactus. Bitter Creek,

July 12 (3528).

ONAGRACEiE.

Epilobium sp. (?). — Two species in this genus were collected, but they do not seem
to agree exactly with any of the descriptions at hand, so they are left unnamed.
Nos. 3512 and 4272, from South Butte and Creston, respectively.

Taraxia breviflora Nutt. — A small, steuilcss plant, with a cluster of root-leaves
out of which the flowers hardly rise. Creston, August 29 (4273).

Auogra albicaulis Brittou (Praikie Evening Primrose). — An herbaceous plant,
with rather slender white stems, almost simple or branched from the base,
G to 15 inches high; large wliite flowers, becoming pink as they grow older.
Green River, May 31 (3064); Point of Rocks, June 1 (3075).

Chylisma scapoidea Small. — An herbaceous branching plant, with dark green
leaves, an<l naked lloweriug stems, from a few inches to a foot high. Common
especially on railroad embankments. Green River, May 30 (3025).

UMBELLIFERiE.

Peucedanum macrocarpum Nutt. ( LAiJCiE-FitunKD I'ahsi.kv). — A steniless form,
with dissected leaves spreading out close to the ground, ))roducing its flowers
and large seeds early in the season ; roots large and fleshy. Point of Rocks,
June 1 (30>6).

Cymopterussp. ( ? ). — \ species of this genus that is as yet undcterniined was sciureil
at I'oint of Rocks, June 1 (30H3).

GENTIANACEiE.

Gentiana afllnis CJriseb. (Oiu.oN(;-leaki;i) (Jkntian). — A perennial with leafy cliis-
tired stems, 6 to 12 iucbes high. Common on low, wet ground. I'oiiit of Rocks,
August 30 (4275).

65

POLEMONIACEiE.

PIilox ^ anescens T. & G. (Hoauy Phlox). — A small, tufteil, or matted form, l>los-
somiiig early on the naked hills. Green River, May 30 (oO^^Oa }.

Phlox douglasii longifolia Graj-. — A small, ri^i<l plant, with woody base and pnu-
gent leaves, only a few inches in height. Point of Rocks, June 1 (3081).

Gilia congesta Hook. — An erect, herbaceons plant, with spreading branches, G to
10 inches high; on sandy ground. Green River, May 31 (3045); Sonlh liiitte,
July 13 (3548).

Gilia caespitosa A. Xels. ((iilia pniKjenn cci'spUosa Gray). — A mnch-matted form,
with pungent leaves. Occurring frequently on the white chalk-like cliffs over-
looking Green River. May 30 (30.30).

H Y DROPHYLL ACEiE.

Emmenanthe scopulina A. Nels. — A small, dcspresseil annual, from the white bluffs,
may be thus referred for the present at least. Pitter Creek, .June 2 (310r)).

Emmenanthe salina A. Nels. — Frerjuent in the abrupt, shale bluffs. Green River,
May 30 (3026).

BORAGINACEiE.

Lappula texana Pritton (Western Stickseed). — An erect, almost simple or some-
times nnich branched, annual, 6 to 1.5 inches high. Common nearly everywhere
in the State. Green River, June 1 (3068rt).

Oreocarya flava A. Nels. ( Yellow-floweiiei) Oheocahya). — Stems numerous and
spreading from deep-set roots, 4 to 8 iuclies long, yoHowisli-hairy and bearing
numerous yellow tiowers. A striking ])lant on some of the sandy slopes and
draws in tlie Bitter Creek hills. I'oint of Rocks, June 1 (.3074); i'>itter Creek,
June 2 (3098).'

Oreocarya sp. ( ? ). — Two small , white llowered-forms were collected, which are yet
uimamed. Green River, June 1 (3072); Red Desert, June 3 (8121).

Oreocarya sp. (?) near O. oj/i/as Greene. — An erect form, simple or branched from
the base, 3 to 6 inches high. (")n the driest clilCs. (Jreen River, May 30 (303.5).

SCROPHULARIACEiE.

Pentstemon fremontii T. & G. (Puemont's Pi:ARi)-TOXGrE). — One to several herba-
ceous stems from a short, woody rootstock, 3 to (J inches high, root-leaves nu-
merous, clustered, somewhat ashy colored. Pitter Creek plains, June 2 (3097).

Pentstemon arenicolus A. Nels. (Saxd-diink Peaiuj-tongue. — A very handsome
plant, branched from thp base, stems 4 to 8 inches high, and bearing a profusion
of large, blue dowers. Point of Rocks, June 1 (3090).

Pentstemon janie.sii Benth. (James's Beahd-tongue). — Much branched from the
base, only a few inches high, foliage pale or ashy. Green River. May 31 (30.52).

Pentstemon radicosus A. Xels. (Tufted Pkard-toxgue). — An erect form, with
slender stems, borne in great clusters from a compact mat of tough, slender roots,
6 to 9 inches high, leaves small and nearly uniform in size. Point of Rocks,
June 1 (3089).

Pentstemon .strictus Penth. — With long, tapering or wand-like erect stems, and a
terminal spike of large, handsome dowers. South Butte, July 13 (3538).

Castilleja sp. (?). — A tall, slender foiiu, ninch resembling ('. linearifolia Benth. ; rare,
only a few specimens secured. South liutte, July 13 (3545).

Adencstegia ramosa Greene. — This small, much branched annual is remarkalily
abundant throughout the desert. Wamsutter, July 11 (3522).

PLANTAGINACEiE.

Plantago eriopoda Torr. (Western Plaxtaix). — This is rarely absent from wet
alkali flats or creek banks.
3018— No. 13 5

66

COMPOSITiE.

Coleosanthiis microphyllus Kuiitze. — A small plant from a woody haso, from
Avhitli arise iniiiieroiis strict, slendor branches, "> to 1(» inches hijjh; tlie small
leaves very numerous. Only a few S2)ecimens noted. The (^ip, July 25 (3594).

Chrysothamiuis coUinus Greene (Hillside Rahiut-hkush). — A .snail, mueh
branched shrub, les.s than a foot hi.nh, stems and leaves yellowish-green. Eaten
by sheej) as a last resort. I'oiut of liock.s, August 30 (4435).

Clnysotaamuu.s linifolius Greene (Crkkk-hank R.\iujit-1!RUSii). — A slender, wil-
lowy shrub, 2 to 3 feet, with bright-green linear-lanceolate leaves. It was
ob8er\ed only on the immediate banks of the strongly saline creeks, where it
was very abundant. Granger, .July 3(t (4137): Rock Sjiriugs, July 30 (4143);
Point of Kocks, August 30 (4440).

Chrysothamniis puni\lii.s Nutt. ( ?). — A small shrub with shreddy bark, the new
branclus being light-colored or almost white, stems and leaves glabrous,
branched and si)reading, but rarely more than 12 to 18 inches high. Wamsutter,
July 11 (3524).

Chrysothamniis specio.sus Nult. ( ?). — A rather stout, branched shrub. 3 feet or

more in luMght, the new twigs slender, green or yellowish, bearing nunieious

long linear leaves. Differing from the other Rabbit-brushes of the region in

that it does not form close clumjjs. but grows as single, conspicuous shrubs,

branched above, thus simulating in habit a miniature tree. C'reston, August 2S
(4419).

Chrysothamniis stenophyllus fireene. — A small shrnb, the older branches s])read-
ing, the younger sonunvhat fascicled and erect, white. It piefers sandy slopes
and ridges. Point of Rocks, August 30 (4434). The forage value of the Rablut-
brushes is Aery small. Sheep men say that in emergencies sbeei> ^^''^' crop the
young branches and lea\'es, but that they leave this forage as soon as other fe.-d
is at hand.

Stenotus acaulis Nutt. — A ]i]ant with iiuiiH^rous naked stems each bearing a lai'ge
head of yellow liowtsrs. Lca\es from the woody base slender and very numer-
ous. Common on the clay and shaly slopes ; Green River, May 30 (3022).

Petradoria puniila Greene. — Some seemingly nearly typical plants were secured at
South Butte, July 13 (.3551).

Townseiidia strigosa Nutt. — Abundant on the white bliilfs about Green River,
May 30(3031).

Aster adscendens Lindl. — The nearly simple, wand-like stems al)out a foot high,
usually growing in chimj>s. Rare in the; desert, only observed on the slopes
below the winter snowdrifts. South ibitte, .Inly 13 (3.553).

Machaeranthera sessiliflora (ireeno. — Infrequent. Cre.stou, August 28 (4271).

Xylorrhiza pairyi (ireene. — Very abundant on clay slopes throughout the desert.
K'.'d Desert. ,hine 3 (3123).

Erigeron condensatus (ireene. — A small, sjireading form, abundant in the hills near
Point of Rocks, .luiie 1 (3088).

Erigeron subtrineivis liydh. — Occasionally in the thickets below the winter snow-
drifts on the stee])er slopes. South iJutte, .luly 13 (3539).

Gnaphaliiim palustre Nutt. — A small sjjreading herb, scarcely 2 inches high; usu-
ally f<Mind in old biillalo wallows or in the loose soil of ditch banks. Creston,
August 2!) (1271).

Iva axillaris Pnrsh. — A w(!e<l-like plant, br.-mching freely and becoming (i to 9
inclies high. Il is \-4-ry alinndant on the lov, liauks of iiitter Creek. .Inly 12
(3.525 J.

Balsamorhiza hirsuta Nutt. — ^'ery rare, oiil.\ a lew plants secured. South J5iitte,
.luly 13(3.5.52).

Hynienopappus luteus Nutt. — A very tomentoseform, much branched, 3 to 6 inches
high, was secured on the bluffs at Green River, May 31 (3051).

67

Tetraneuris lanata Greene. — A perennial plant with numerous root-leaves and
naked stems bearing single yellow heads, 3 to 4 inches high. Excellent speci-
mens were secured of this good species which until recently has heen suppressed
by merging it into T. acaulis Greene. (Jreeu River, May 31 (3068).

Tanacetuni nuttallii T. and G. (Nuttall's Tansy). ^xV suuxll, cjespitose perennial
producing little spherical heads of flowers on slender, naked stems, 2 to 3 inciics
long. Green River, June 1 (3049).

Artemisia cana Pursh. (White-lkafed .Sage-bru.sh). — A small shrub, 2 to 3 feet
high, with slender branches and long, entire leaves, grayish-white in coloi'. < )f
the sage-brushes this is the best Ibrage jdant. Creston, August 28 (4421); Hat
Creek, August 20 (42.50).

Arteniisla pedatifida Nutt. — A low, matted sage occurring frequently on the alka-
line Hats and in the clayey draws. Though small and inconspicuous it probably
furnishes considerable forage for sheep. Bitter Creek, .June 2 (3103).

Artemisia spinescens Eaton (Bud BRr.sii; Spiny SAOE-BRrsH). — Early in the
spring this forms a low, spherical clump of tender leaves and flower buds that
are much relished by sheep. Green River, May 30 (3028).

Artemisia trifida Nutt. — A small shrub with deeply three-cleft leaves, not common;
principally in the hill region. Not sufficiently abundant to have any economic
significance.

Artemisia tridentata Nutt. (Common Sage-brcsii). — The best known shrub of the
great, arid West, varying immensely in size in diftereut situations, from a dwarf
shrub less than a foot high to almost tree-like proportions; common on the
plains and at increasingly higher altitudes up to the subalpine parks of the
mountains.

Artemisia sp. ( ?). — A small, almost herbaceons form with slender stems and numer-
ovis, entire leaves was found growing interspersed among the grasses in a wet
draw among the hills. It may possibly be a form of A. mexicana Willd., but
more probably is new. If it could be grown as a crop it looks as if it might have
forage \alue.

Senecio canus Hook. — A perennial herb of no value as forage; in the draws at
Green River, June 1 (3070).

Tetradymia canescens DC. — A closely branched shrub, 9 to 1.5 inches high, leaves
and branches whitish with flne hair, producing dense clusters of yellow flowers.
Probably eaten to some extent by sheep, the tender twigs in the winter, the
young leaves and twigs in late spring. Bitter Creek, July 12 (3()99) ; Point of
Rocks, August 30 (4432).

Tetradymia canescens inermis Gray. — Very similar to the preceding, but smaller
and more compactJy branched. Bitter Creek, June 2 (3107).

Tetradymia nuttallii T. & G. — An intricately branched shrub, 1 to 3 feet high, less
whitened with hair than the pi-eceding, horridlj' prickly with rigid, sharp,
divergent spines; the young branches soft and freely nipped otf by sheep. Greeu
River, May 31 (3061); Fort Steele, June 5 (3134); Bitter Creek, July 12 (3697).

Tetradymia spinosa H. & A. (see PI. Ill, fig. 2). — More slender and less l)ranched
than the preceding, the branches perfectly white, with tomentum or matted wool;
the leaves are dropj)ed early in the season and the compact, naked mass of white
twigs form a very conspicuous part of the vegetation on the otherwise often
rather naked slopes and hills. Though the older stems are rather sharp-spiny,
yet this forms a valuable constituent of the winter forage forsheep and antelope.

Cardiius leiocephalus Il(dler. — A small thistle with white, woolly ]ea\es: not abun-
dant. Bitter Creek, July 12 (3.529).

Bui 1 3. D'V. of Agrostology.

Plate II.

Fig. 1.— Point of Rocks, Bitter Creek Valley,

Fig. 2.— The Ideal Summer Range.

Bui. 1 3, Div of Agrostology.

Plate III.

Fig. 1 .— Tetradymia spinosa h. & a.

Fig. 2.— Atriplex volutans a. Ne;s.

Bui 1 3, Div, of Agrostology.

Plate IV.

Sheldon's Blue-grass <Poa sheldoni Vasey).

a, Empty glumes; b. Florets; c. Ligule.

Bui. 13, Div. of Agrostology

Plate V.

Alkali Blue-grass i Poa juncifolia Scnbn.).

«, Empty glumes ; b, Florets; c, Flowering glume ; d. Palea ; e, Ligule.

INDEX.

Page

Abronia sp 61

Adenostegia ramosa '. 65

Agroijyron 19, 23, 25, 28

caninoides 47

caninum 47

dasy.slachyum subvillosum 47, 56

diverijens '. 47

'pseudurepens 47

richardsoni 47

ripariutn 48

sjncatum 26, 48, 56

molle 48,56

teneruin 26, 48, 56

ciliatina 48, 56

vaseyi 48, 56

violaceum 48

Agrostis 29

alba JO, 35

asperifolia 35

humilis 36

scabra 35

tenuis 36

Alkali blue-grass 55

grass 55

meadow grass 45, 56

Alliiaii mntabile 58

reticulatum 58

Alpine timothy 34

Alopecurus genieulatus fulvus 34

occidentalis 34

American bulrush 57

vetch 63

Anogra albicaulis 64

Arabis brebneriana 62

canescens 62

Arctic spear-grass 40

Arena lia congesta 61

hookeii 61

nuttallii 61

Ariiitida fasdculata 32

Artemisia 23, 25. 53. 67

cana 67

pedatijida 67

spinexcens 19, 25, 67

tridcntata 18, 25, 67

trifida 67

Ashy rock-cress 62

Asler adscendens 66

Astragalus 63

'jraijii 63

haydenianus nevadensis 63

hypoglollis 63

megacnrpus 63

molliisimus 53

Atriplez 19, 23. 53

argentea 59

confertifolia 19. 25, 59

expansa 60

hastata ' 60

nuttallii 19, 24, 60

Page.

Atrijilex pabularis 60

truneata 60

volutans 24

Australian saltbush 23

Awued sedge 52

BaUamorhiza hirsuta 66

Baltic rush 53

Bank wheat-grass 48

Bearded wheat-grass 47

Bebb's willow 59

Beckuiannia eruca-formis 39

Bench-land spear-grass '. 40

Bent-grasses 29

Big sand-grass 37

Black grama. 33

Blitum, capitatum 59

Bine-joint grass 29. 36

Bouteloua oligostachya 38

Brebner's rock-cress 62

Brome-grasses 28 29

Broinus 28

ciliatui scariosus 46

kalmii 45

multijlorus 29, 46

porteri 46

scabratus 46

Bud-brnsh 19,25,67

sage 25

Buft'ald grass 39

Bunch-grass 29 55

sandwort 61

wheat-grass 47

Bulbous melic-grass 40

Biittercnp gj^

Calamagrostis 29

canadensis 35

acuminata 36

hyperborea americana 36. 55

montanensis 36

neglecta 55

2JUrp urascens 37

scribneri 37

Calaniovilfa longifolia 37

California oat-grass 37

Oarduus leiocephalus 67

Carex 31^53

acutina tenuior 50

atli roUaclnja 3] , 51)

atrata 51)

aurea .50

deflexa media 50

doiiglasii 50

ele charts 53

f estiva stricta 31, 50

viridis 51

fdifolia 51

yeycri 51

hoodii 5x

jonesii 51

lanuginosa 31, 51

69

70

INDEX.

Page.

Carex marcida 31, 51

alterna ^1

debilis ^

media dejlexa ''1

mvltinoda 51, 58

nebrasl'ensix 31, 51, 58

prcevia 51

nigrescenx 51

nana - - '^.^

prehlii ^^

pyrenaica *'^

raiinoldsii 52

siccata 52

stenophylla 52, 58

tenella 52

teretmsctda 58

tolmiei 52

trichocarpa aristata 31, 52

imberhis 31, 52

iitriculata minor 31, 52

vallicola 53

variabilis ...» 53

elatior 53

rastillfja ^^

Ccrcocarpus 1°

parvifolius 62

Chenopodiacea:

Chenopodiu in

album 23, 59

fri'montii 59

ylaucum 23, 59

lfptophyll(( III 59

Choke berry ^9

Chrysothammis 19,23

coilinus 66

lini/olius 60

piimiliis 66

speciosHiK 66

stenophyllus 66

Chylisma scapoidea 64,

Cleome lutea 62

Clustered tieltl-sedgo 51

Colorado blue-stem 26

ColeoMiitlnts microphylliis 66

Columbia needle-grass _ 32

Common sagebrush '^'^1

sijike-rush '■ -i'*. 57

Compositat -•'> 60

Creekbauk rabbitbrusli 66

Cymoplerus 64

Danthonia californira 37

intermedia 3i

23,59
53

Page.

FAijmua canadensis 49

condensatns 27, 49, 57

glaueus 49

macounii 49

occidentaliis 49

salinus 57

simplex 49

F.pilobitini 64

Erigeron con dennatus 66

subtrinervis 66

Eriocoma ciapidata 19, 27, 33, 54

Eriogonum 20, 53

campamdatiim 59

effusum 59

oralifolium 59

Exirotia lanata 19, 60

False couch-grass 38, 47

red-top 41

Feather bunch-grass 33

Fendler's spear-grass - 41

Festnca brevifolia, 45

elatior prate n si ■i 45

kingii 45

45
45
45
34,54
29
58
65

ofi7ia

rxtbra

ihurberi

Fine-top salt-grass

Fowl meadow-grass

Fraser's wild onion

Fremont's beard-tongue

goosefoot 59

Gentiana affini/, 61

Geum macrojihyllum 62

(Jeyer'a sedge '-'^

Giant rye-grass 2i.49. 57

Gilia ccespitosa 6a

congesta 6.>

pungens ccespitosa 65

Glandular cinquetbil 62

Gnaphalium palustre 66

Gramiiii'fe -3

Graphephonnn nmticum 44

Grayia .^pinosa 61

Gray's milk-vetch 63

• Grease-wood 19, 23, 60

50
19
29

y3

35

parry I .

37

Desert .juniper 28,54

rve-grass •"

Descliampsia

cefspitosa

Disticlilis spicata

Dondia diftisa

Downy oat-grass

T>raba glacialis

Dropst'i'd 28

Dwarl sedge

Eai ly bunch-grass

Eatnnia obtutata

Echiniicactiis simpstoni minor. .■

Emmenanthe sahna

scopulina

Eleochai-is

paluxtris

Elymu*

29

37, 55

40, 55

61

37

62

30,55

5'J

39

39

64

65

65

50,' 57

49, 57

28

Great bulrush

Green-sages

Hair-grasses

Hairy muhlenberg

Herd's grass

Heuchera pai-vifolia 62

Uedyfa rum am cricanu m 53

mackenzii 53

Hillside rabbit-brush 66

sedge 52

Hoary i)hlox 65

Holodixc us dumosu!! 62

Hood's sedge ■''1

Hooker's sandwort 61

Hordeum jubatum 49, lO

nndosum 4il, ;>7

occidentalc 49

Tlymenopappus lutetis '>6

Indian niiUct 19. 27, 33, 54

Iva axillaris

.Tamos's bcanl-tongue

.Jones's sedge

Juncus balticus

con/iisiis

xiphioides montanus

66
65
51
58
58
.58

Jttniperus knightii 20. 54

INDEX.

71

Page.

Ealm's chess 46

Keniucky blue-grass 29,43

King's fescue 45

Kochia ainericana 60

Kceleria cristata 39, 55

Lamb8<iuarters 59

Lappida texana 65

Large bladilerpod vetcb 63

flowered pepper-grass 61

fruilcd parsley 64

leafed a veiis 62

mountain bronie-grass 29, 46

Lepidium, medium 61

tnontanum 61

Letterman's needle-grass 54

Lewis's wild flax 64

liinum lewisii 64

Long-bearded wild rye 49, 57

Long-stalked buiicb-grass 42

ljupinui 53

anjenteus 63

leuGophyllus 63

Machceran Ihera sessilijiura 66

Maivastnim eoccinium 64

Manna 28

Many-jointed sedge 51

spiued opuntia 64

Marsh foxtail 34

Meadow barley 49, 57

Meadow fescue 45

grasses 29

Melica bulbosa 40

Mentzelia 04

Mi nzies' pink 61

Monolepis nvttalliana 59

Aloiitiuia blue-joint 36

Mountain blue-grass 43

blue-joint 36

foxtail 34

mahogany 19, 62

meadow grass 29

oat-grass 37

wheat-grass 48

MiMcnhergia comata 33

gracilis breviaristata 33

Narrow-leafed American vetch 63

goosefoot 59

Kebraska sedge 51, 58

Keedlegrass 32, 54

Nelson's neudlegiass 32, 54

salt-sage 24, 60

Kerved manna-grass 44

Nevada blue-grass 43

New sedge 52

Northern meadow-grass 44

wheat-grass 50

Nuttall's wheat-grass 56

sandwort 24, 60

tansy 01

Oblong-leafed gentian 04

Opuntia polyacantha Gi

2)latycarpa 64

Oreocai-ya fava 65

Oxygraplus cyinhalaria 01

Oryzopmis micrantlia 33

Panicinn rirgatuin 31

Panicularia 29

america7ia 30, 44

borealis 44

nervata 44

itricta 44

Page.

Parry's oat-grass 37

PenUlemon aienicolun 65

fremontii 65

jamcsii 65

radicostis 65

strict Its 65

Petradoria puiiiila 66

Peucedanum macrncarjnim 64

Pliala ris arundinacca 32

Philadelplnts occideittalis 62

J'hleiim 28

alpiniDii 34

Phlox canesceng 65

douglasii longi/olia 65

Physaria 62

Plantago erio2)oda 05

Poa 28, 29

arctica 40

buckleyana 29, 40, 55

i'ljilis 41

fendleriana 41

Jhiva 29, 41

glauca 4.-S,

juncifolia 29, 55

Icevijata 29, 42, 56

Uptocoma 42

luiigejjedu7iculata 42

nevadfnsis 43

nemoralix 29, 42

piratentiis 29. 43

rejlexa 29, 43

shelduni 29, 43 56

wheeleri 29. 44

Pon.v-grass 55

Porter's chess 40

Potentilla anserina 62

glandulusa 62

Prairie bulrn.sh 53

evening primrose 64

June gi-ass 39, 55

rush 50

Presls sedge 52

Pru n IIS dem issa 63

Psoralen laiiceolala 53

linearifolia 53

temdrtora 53

Puccinellia airoides 45, 56

Purple milk-vetch 63

top needle-grass 33

Purplish reed-grass 37

Kabbitbrush 19, 20

Kaynolds' sedge 52

Eed-top 30. 35

false mallow 04

fescue 45

Reed 28

cauary-gTass 32

meadow-grass 30, 31, 44

lihiis trilobata 64

Kicbardson's wheat-grass 47

River-bank willow 59

Rough hair-grass 35

leafed bent-grass 35

salt-grass 34

liumcx tuberosus 59

Rush-like sedge 52

Russian thistle 24, 01

Rye-grasses 28

Sage-brush 18,20,25

.S'rtJt.r bebbiana h'S

cordata mackenzieana 58

72

INDEX.

Page.

SaHx fiuviatilin 59

Saltola tragus 61

Siilt-jrrass 40, 55

sages 19, 20, 22, 23, 24

Saiultlime beard-tongue fi5

grass 36

Sarfohatus 19,23,53

vermicidatus 60

Savastana odorata 32

Si'ahroiis cliess 46

ScliedcDinardus panieulatvs 38

Scirpux ca iiipestris 50, 58

luc.astrin 50

inicroca rpua 50

Scribiier's reed-grass 37

Seaside arrow-gra.ss 54

crowfoot 61

Sedges 31

Seneca grass 32

Senecio caims 07

Servici'-berry 19

Shad scale 19

Sheep's fescue 45

Sheldon's blue-grass 29, 43, 56

Slieiilicrd's purse 62

Sliiuv bunch -grass 29, 42, 56

Sbort-awncd bronie-grass 45

leafed fescue 45

Shrubby blite 61

Hilene mcnziesii 01

Silver- weed 62

Silvery lupine 63

salt-sage 59

liisi/nil'i'iHm canescens 02

linifolium 62

Sitaniiiii ('lij)noides 49, 57

Slender cord-grass 38

hair-grass 36

wlieat-grass 28, 48, 56

Slough-grass 39

SuKill l)ot tie-sedge 52

llowered mountain-rice 33

fruited bulrush 50

Smooth lmn( h-grass 29.42,56

Soft-leafed .sedge 52

Siicirtiiia gracilis 38

Si)ear-grasses 28, 29, 42

Spiny sage 61

brush 67

salt-sage 25, 59

Sporobolun 28

airoidcs 34, 54

asperifoliiig 34

confusiis 34

cryptandrus 34

Sporubohis depauperatns 30, 35, 55

simplex 35

Spreading orache CO

salt-sage CO

Siiuirrel-tail grass 49, 5C

atanleya pinnatu 01

intiijrifuUa 01

•Stenolti.s acaulis 66

Stinking sumach 04

Page.

Stipa comata 32, 54

Columbiana 32

lettermani 54

■minor 33

iielsoni 32, 54

tireedyi 33

viridula •. 33

Strawberry blite 59

Strejjtanth us lonairostris 62

Sueda 53

Sweet sage 6 J

Switch-grass 31

Tall manna-grass 44

Tanacetum nuttaUii 67

Taraxia brevijfora 64

Tetradymia 19, 23

canef:cens 67

inerinis 67

mUtallii 67

.<ijii7iosa 67

Tetraiieviis acaulis 67

laiiatu 67

Tlielypodiuut CI

Tliermopsis 53

Thread-leafed sedge 51

Thurber's fescue 45

Timothy ; 28

Tou-nscndia strigosa 66

TrifoUum, loiigijjc.i 53

Triglochin ma ritiina 54

Trisetutn subspicatuiii 37

Triticum festiruui 49

Tuberous dock 59

Tufteil beard-tongue 65

hair-grass 37, 55

Tumbling salt-sage 24

Tweedy 's slipa 33

Vasey's wbeat-grasa 48, 56

Yicia 53

dixsiti/olia 03

linearis 03

Water whorl-grass 55

Western blue-grass 29

pejiper-grass 61

])laiil;uu 65

rye-grass 49

syringa 02

wheat-grass 28. 48. 56

wild cherry 63

Wheat grasses ! 19, 22, 23, 25, 28

Wliite-leafeil sagebrush 67

sage 20,23

Whitlow-grass 62

Wild onion 58

rye 49

Winter-fat 19, 00

Wood meadow-grass 29, 42

Woolly sedgo 51

Wyoming blue-grass 29,44

Xylorrlilza parryi 06

\'elln\v ch'oiiie 02

llowered oi-eocarya 65

top 30

^

Bulletin No. 14.

Agros. 34.

U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE.

DIVISION OF AGROSTOLOGY.
[nrnMM iiiitl Forage Plant InveMtigalioiiM.J

ECONOMIC OKASSES

BY

F. LAMSON-SCRIBNER,

AGROSTOLOGIST.

WASHINGTON:

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.
18 98.

LETTER OE TRANSMITl^AL.

U. S. Department of Agriculture,

Division of Agrostology,
Washington, I). C, June 39, 1898.

Sir : I liave the liouor to present and recommend for publication as
Bulletin No. 14 ol this Division manuscript containing brief descriptions
of the more important economic grasses of tliis country or those which
have been introduced because possessing some merit. This pubhcation
it is believed will afford a ready answer to the usual inquiries respecting
a large number of our grasses. Much of the matter here presented is
taken from Bulletin No. 3 of this Division, but owing to the fact that
that bulletin exceeded 100 pages the edition published was limited to
1,000 copies, and consequently was very quickly exhausted. The
matter has here been condensed in order that a larger edition may
be published to meet the demands of correspondents.
Respectfully,

F. Lamson-Scribner,

Agro,stologict.

Hon. Jajmes Wilson,

Secretary of Agriculture.

CONTENTS.

Page.

Descriptions '. 7

Grasses for special soils or uses 77

Hay grasses 77

Pasture grasses 77

Lawn grasses 77

Grasses for wet lands 77

Grasses for embankments 78

Grasses for holding shifting sands 78

o
O

ILLUSTRATIONS.

PLATES.

Page.
Plate I. Fig. 1. — Pl.anting Beach grass in siiud near Provincetowii, Mass.
Fig. 2. — Kafir corn in grass garden of the U. S. Department of

Agriculture 10

II. Single plant of native "Giant Millet" in grass garden of the U. S.

Department of Agriculture 28

III. Fig. 1. — Young plants of Teosinte in grass garden of the U. S, De-
partment of Agriculture. Fig. 2. — Reed Canary grass in grass

garden of the U. S. Department of Agriculture 38

FIGURES.

FiG. 1. Agropyron repens 8

2. Agrostis alba 8

3. Alopecurus geniculatus 10

4. Alopecurus pratensis 11

5. Ammophila arenaria 11

6. Andropogon halcpensis 12

7. Andropogon nutans 12

8. Andropogon jirovincialis 13

9. Andropogon scoparius 14

10. Andropogon virginicns 15

11. Anthoxanthuni odoratum 16

12. Aristida fasciculata ,- - - 17

13. Arrhenatherum elatius 17

14. Arundiuaria macrosperma 18

15. Avena fatua 19

16. Beckmannia erucseformis 21

17. Bouteloua curtiiiendula 21

18. Bouteloua oligostachya 22

19. Briza media 23

20. Bromns inermis 23

21. Bromus secaliniis 24

22. Bromus unioloidos 24

23. Bulbilis dactyloides 25

24. Calamagrostis canadensis 25

25. Calamovilfa longifolia 26

26. Campulosus aromaticus 27

27. Cenchrus tribuloides 27

28. Cha-tochloaglauca 27

29. Cha-tochloa germauica 28

30. Cha-tochloa italica 28

31. Chloris glauca 29

32. Cy nodon dactylon 30

33. Cynosurus cristatus 31

34. Dactylis glomerata 31

35. Dactyloctenium a-gyptiura 32

36. Deschampsia flexuosa 33

5

Page.

Fig. 37. Distichlis spicata 33

38. Eleiisiue iudica 34

39. Elymus arenarius 35

40. Elymus virginicus 35

41. Epicampes rigens 36

42. Eragrostis major 36

43. Eriocoma cuspidata 38

44. Euclila^na mexicaua 38

45. Festuca elatior aiundiuacea 39

46. Festuca rubra glaucescens - 40

47. Festuca scabrella ^0

48. Hilaria cenchioides 41

49. Hilaria rigida 42

50. Holcus lanatus 42

51. Ilordeum jnl)atnm 43

52. Imperata bookeii 44

53. Lolium italicum 45

54. Lolinm perenne 46

55. Mublenbergia diffusa 47

56. Mublenbergia mexicana 47

57. Mublenbergia racemosa 48

58. Panicularia canadensis 50

59. Panicularia liuitans 50

60. Panicularia nervata 51

61. Panicum agrostoidcs 51

62. Panicum amarum 51

63. Panicum crus-galli 52

64. Panicum maximum 53

65. Panicum sanguinale 55

66. Panicum serotinum 55

67. Panicum texauum 56

68. Panicum virgatum 56

69. Paspalum compressuin 57

70. Paspalum disticliuin 58

71 . Paspalum Lcve 58

72. Pbalaris canariensis ^'0

73. I'balaris angusta ^'0

74. Pblcum pratense 61

75. Poa buckleyana 62

76. Poa pratonsis 64

77. Kedfieldia llexuosa 65

78. Savastana odorata 66

79. Spartina cynosuroides 6b

80. Spartina patens 66

81. Spartinastrictamaritima 67

82. Spinifex birsutus 68

83. Sporobolus airoides 69

84. 8porobolu8 indicue 69

85. Sporobolus wrigbtii ''^

86. Stcnotaphrum dimidiatum ''1

87. Stipa viridula ''2

88. Tripsacumdactyloides "^3

89. llniola latifo.lia J4

90. Zizania a<iuatica ''^

91. Zoysia pnngens "6

ECONOMIC GRASSES.

DESCRIPTIONS.

No. 1. Agropyron caninum (L.) R. & S. Bearded Wheat-grass.
A fibrous-rooted, rather slender, upright perennial, 2 to 3 feet high, with bearded,
nodding heads or spikes resembling slender heads of wheat. This grass is more
or less frequent in the northern parts of the United vStates, ranging from Maine
westward to the Dakotas. Bearded Wheat-grass is closely related to the more
common and better known Couch-grass (A. rejiois), but differs markedly from
that species in having no creeping rootstocks, and in the longer beards or awns
to the spikelets. No attempts have been made to introduce this grass into gen-
eral cultivation, but its habit of growth and other characters indicate that it
may possess considerable agricultural value. It is readily propagated by seeds,
which may be easily gathered.
No. 2. Agropyron divergens Nees. Wire Bunch-grass.

A slender, usually densely tufted perennial, 1 to 2 feet high or more, with very nar-
row, spreading leaves, and bearded or beardless spikes. The beards or awns,
when present, are widely spreading or divergent. This grass is common in the
Rocky Mountain and Paciiic Slope regious, extending westward to the coast. On
rich lands it often grows to the height of 3 feet, but upon the dry bench lands it
rarely exceeds a foot or 18 inches in height. On dry lands the stems become
wiry with age, and are avoided by stock; but the grass is considered valuable
by the ranchmen for winter grazing. Samples of this grass received from some
points in the West, particularly from Washington, indicate that it possesses
much agricultural value when grown upon good soil, and as it will thrive in
the semiarid regions of the Northwest, its cultivation may prove desirable.
Propagated readily by seed, which can be easily gathered.
No. 3. Agropyron pseudorepens Scribn. & Smith. Western Couch-grass.
A perennial, with creeping rootstocks, abundant in the northern prairie States, pro-
ducing tall and leafy stems, which resemble those of Couch-grass, but are less
wiry. This is less plentiful in the semiarid belt than the Western Wheat-grass
or Colorado Blue-stem, but is better adapted for cultivation as a hay grass
because of its softer stems and leaves. It is one of the most promising native
species.
No. 4. Agropyron repens (L.) Beauv. Couch-grass. (Fig. 1.)
A grass abundant everywhere in the Eastern and Middle States, growing in the open
iields, and in many places it has become one of the worst of weeds. Often the
chief labor in managing hoed crops consists in subduing this pest. When once
established, it is hardly less difficult to eradicate than the well-known Johnson-
grass of the Southern States. It is, however, a valuable hay grass, and for two
or three years the yield is large, but, like the Western Blue-stem, it "binds
itself out," and the sod requires breaking in order to restore the yield. It is an

7

8

excpllont grass for bindiug railroad and other embankments subject to ■wash, and
can be recommended for this purpose. The roots are well known in medicine
under the name of Radix graminis. The simple infusion is used as a diuretic.
Propagated by "root cuttings" or by seed.

No. 5. Agropyronspicatum (Pursh) Scribn. & Smith.
Western Wlieat-grass.

A grass closely resembling the Couch-grass of the
Eastern States, and by some regarded as only a
variety of it. It has the same strong and exten-
sively creeping rootstocks, and the foliage and
spikes are very similar, but the whole plant usually
has a bluish color, whence the common name " Blue-
stem," most frequently applied to it in the West.
It grows naturally on the dry bench lands and
river bottoms; and, although the yield per acre is
not large, the quality of the hay is unsurpassed by
any otlier species of the region where it grows. In
Montana and the neighboring .States it furnishes a
considerable amount of native hay, and is there
regarded as one of the most important of the native
forage plants. After three or four successive an-
nual cuttings, the yield diminishes very much, but
the grass is "brought up"
by letting it stand a year
or two, or by dragging
over the sod a shari>
toothed harrow, thus
breaking the roots into
small pieces, every frag-
ment of which makes a
new plant. This grass is
(Hiite distinct from the

Fig. 1— Couch-grass (Agropyron
repent) .

"Blue-stem" grasses of

Nebraska, which are
Bpeciesof Jn(ho2)ogoii (A. 2)rovincialis). There are a num-
ber of other species of Agropyron or wheat-grasses in
the Rocky Mountains, some of which are evidently excel-
lent hay grasses and well deserve the attention of the
agriculturist.

No. 6. Agropyron tenerum Vascy. Slender Wheat-grass.

A perennial buncli grass growing in the northern prairie
region from Nebraska to Montana and Manitoba. Seed
of this grass is now on the market, its sterling quali-
ties for hay having long been recognized by North-
western fainiers. It produces an abundance of soft,
leafy stems and root leaves, and ripens a large amount
of seed that is easily gathered — two of the chief re(|ui-
sites of a good hay grass. This grass is well adapted
for cultivation, and the area devoted to it is deservedly
increasing each year.

Fio.

2. -Redtop
alba) .

{Af^rostis

No. 7. Agrostis alba Liiin. liedto]» or Herd's-grass.

Und(!r the botanical name of Agroslia alha are included a number of varieties, some
of which have received distinct Latin names; :i8, for example, Agroaiia vulgaris

and Agrostifi stoUnifera, and many Englisli or local names; that most generally
applied in the Middle and Eastern States heing llerd's-grass, and in the South
and West, Redtop. The great variability of this grass has led to much diversity
of opinion in regard to its value. The taller forms are largely cultivated for
hay, being usually mixed with timothy and clover. This grass requires con-
siderable moisture in the soil, and is one of the best for permanent pastures in
the New England and Middle States. It makes a very resistant and leafy turf,
which Avell withstands the trampling of stock. It grows well, also, as far
south as Tennessee. Among the forms of low growtli are two varieties which
are unsurpassed, either in fineness or richness of color, for making lawns.

No. 8. Agrostis asperifolia Trin. Rough-leafed Bent.

This grass is common in the Rocky Mountain regions and on the Pacific Slope, grow-
ing chiefly in the mountain parks and along water courses. Its slender leafy
culms are 2 to 3 feet high, and the narrow, pale-green, and densely flowered
panicles 4 to 6 inches long. .Judging from the appearance of this grass, it is
likely to prove, under cultivation, superior to the Herd's-grass or Redtop of the
East, at least for hay.

No. 9. Agrostis canina Linn. Rhode Island Bent.

This species of bent has been introduced into this country from Europe, and ia
cultivated to some extent in the Eastern States. It resembles Herd's-grass (Red-
top) somewhat, but has shorter and narrower leaves. It makes a close sod,
and is considered valuable for permanent meadows and pastures. It is one of
the best grasses for lawns, and for this purpose should be sown at the rate
of 3 to 4 bushels per acre. Retail price of seed quoted in New York catalogues,
$2.75 per bushel.

No. 10. Agrostis coarctata (Reicbb.) Ehrh. Sea-coast Bent.

A creeping perennial with sleuder culms, the upright branches 1 foot high, short and
narrow flat leaves, and densely flowered panicles 2 to 4 inches long. It grows
in damp soils and sands along the sea coast from Newfoundland to New Jersey,
often occurring where constantly drenched by the flying salt spray. It is a fine-
leafed, excellent turf-forming species, valuable for lawns. A similar if not
identical species is common in western Oregon and Washington.

No. 11. Agrostis exarata Trin. Northern Redtop.

The grass upon which this species was founded is a native of Alaska, but a number
of forms which occur in the Rocky Mountain regions and on the Pacific Slope
have been referred to it. Some of these have been characterized as distinct
species, and there are several among them which, from their tall, leafy habit
and vigorous growth, indicate the possession of considerable agricultural value,
although none of them have as yet been introduced into cultivation. They are
deserving of the attention of the agriculturist, and their culture is recommended,
particularly on the Pacific Slope. They would doubtless thrive in the Eastern
and Middle States, and possibly supplant, by their greater luxuriance and better
qualities, some of the species now cultivated.

No. 12. Agrostis scabra Willd. Rough Bent.

A slender, erect, tufted annual, with numerous very narrow basal leaves, and deli-
cate, widely spreading capillary panicles, which at maturity break away from
the culm, and are blown about by the wind, hence one of the common names,
"fly-away-grass." Before the panicle has fully expanded, this grass is some-
times gathered and sold under the name of "silk-grass " for dry bou(iuet8. It is
widely distributed throughout the United States, but is of little or no agricul-
tural value. In irrigated meadows of the Northwest this species, or a form of
it, is occasionally sufficiently abundant to furnish a large amount of hay which
is regarded of good quality.

10

No. 13. Agrostis stolonifera Linn. Creepiuj? Bent.

By some regarded as only a variety of Agrostis alba, with long, prostrate or creeping
stems, well adapted for sandy pastures near the coast, and useful, perhaps, for
binding shifting sands or river banks subject to wash or overflow. It makes a
good pasture grass for low lands, especially for those which are somewhat sandy,
and produces a fine and enduring turf for lawns, for which is is especially well
adapted. It is not a productive hay grass, although it has a record of yielding
on rich, peaty soil 7,742 pounds of hay and 2,722 pounds of green aftermath per
acre. If sown alone, sow at the rate of 2 bushels per acre, or for lawns 3 bush-
els. Current retail price in New York, $3.50 per bushel.

No. 14. Agrostis vulgaris With. Herd's-grass ; Redtop.

This is little more than a variety of Agrostis alba, already noted. It is quoted in the

seed catalogues as a distiuct species, and is
recommended for mixtures designed for
permanent pastures or meadows. It suc-
ceeds as far south as Tennessee, and is often
sown with timothy and red clover. Retail
price of seed, New York market, $1 to $1.50
per bushel.

No. 15. AlopecurusgeuiculatusLinn. Water

Foxtail. (Fig. 3.)
A low, usually procumbent grass, with slender
stems 8 to 18 inches long, often rooting at
the lower joints. It usually grows iu wet
places, and is A-ery widely distributed
throughout the north temperate zone. It
has cylindrical heads or panicles, resem-
bling those of Meadow Foxtail, but much
smaller. This grass enters into the natural
herbage of low. wet meadows and pas-
tures, and in such places affords excellent
grazing, being tender and nutritious.
Alopecurus fnlrua is simply a variety of
this, with short-awned flowering glumes.
Under favorable cireumstauces this grass
makes a good turf and a pleasing lawn of
a deep rich green color, remaining green
throughout the severe winter weather of
the Middle States.
No. 16. Alopecurus occidentalis .Scribu.
Mountain Foxtail.
A grass of the mountain mejidows of the Rocky Mountains, growing in rich soil
along streams and in the open parks. It has sleuder, erect stems 2 to 3 feet
high, with short, oblong heads, thicker and shorter than those of common
Meadow Foxtail. This grass is occasionally found covering extensive areas to
the exclusion of other 8i)ecies. It yiehls a large bulk of tine, long, bright-
colored hay, which is highly valued where it can bo obtained. For the more
elevated meadows of the Rocky Mountain region, and doubtless also for the
New r.ngland and Xortli Middle States, this grass would form an excellent
addition to the cultivated species, and its introduction is recommended.

No. 17. Alopecurus pratensis Linn. Meadow Foxtail. (Fig. 4.)
This well-known European grass has been introduced into this country and culti-
vated to some extent in the New England and Middle States. It is a valuable
grass for moist meadows and pastures, particularly the latter, on account of its

Fig. 3.-

-Water Foxtail (Alopecurus
(jeniculatuH) .

Bui. 14, Div. of Agrostology

Plate I.

FiG. 1. -Planting Beach Grass in Sand near Provincetown, Mass.

Fig. 2.— Kafir Corn in Grass Garden of the U. S. Department of Agriculture.

11

early growth, being one of the earliest of the cultivated grasses. It is very
hardy, and on good soil yields a large amount of excellent forage. In Europe
it is reoarded as one of the best perennial pasture grasses. It should enter into
all nuxtures for permanent pastures, V>ecause it is very last-
ing, highly nutritious, and earlier than most other species.
This grass has a record of producing 20,418 pounds per acre
of green grass, 6,125 pounds of hay, and 8,167 pounds of
aftermath. It is never sown by itself, but is always mixed
with other grasses and forage plants, because it gives a
full yield only in the second or third year. Average number
of seeds in a pound, 907,000. Price of seed quoted in New
York catalogues, $2.30 per bushel, or $32 per 100 pounds.

No. 18. Ammophila arenaria (Linn.) Link. Beach-grass,

(Fig. 5.)
This grass grows more or less abundantly along the sandy coasts

of the Atlantic and the shores

of the Great Lakes. It has

strong, creeping rootstocks,

upright stems 2 to 4 feet high,

and long, rather rigid leaves.

The narrow, densely flowered

panicles which terminate the

stems are from 3 to 10 inches

long. It is one of the most

valuable grasses adapted to

bindinjj; the drifting sands of

our coasts, and has been culti-

FiG. 4. — Meadow Fox-
tail {Alopecuruspra-

vated for this purpose in this
as well as in other countries.
The action of this grass in hold-
ins: the drifting sands is like
that of brush or bushes cut and
laid upf)u the ground in accu-
mulating snow when drifted by the wind. The sand
collects around the clumps of grass, and as it accu-
mulates, the grass grows up and overtops it, and will
so contiuTie to grow, no matter how high the sand
hill may rise. This process goes on over the whole
surface of the plantation, and thus many acres may
be raised far above their original level. A plant will,
by gradual growth upwards, finally form stems and
roots sanded in to the depth of fully 100 feet.
Beach-grass is best propagated by transplanting
(PI. I, fig. 1). The grass is pulled by hand and
planted 1 to 2 feet apart, according to the slope,
by forcing a long spade or shovel into the sand,
which is then carried forward, making an opening
into which the roots are thrust, the spade then
being withdrawn and the sand pressed close about
them. The planting may be done either in the
spring or fall, preferably in the fall. When propa-
gation is by seed, the sowing should be done early in the spring and brush laid
over the ground for holding the sand and seed temporarily in place. Beach-
grass has been used for the manufacture of coarse paper, and it makes an excel-
lent and very durable thatch. It is of no value for fodder.

Fig. 5. — Beach-grrass (Arn^yio-
phila arenaria): a, base of
culm; 6, inflorescence: c.ligule.

12

No. 19. Andropogon contortus Linn. Twisted Beard-grass.

A stout, leafy perennial, 1 to 3 feet liigb, aifording excellent grazing when young,
but the mature seeds are much dreaded by sheep owners, as by their peculiar
structure they not only become attached to and injure the wool, but often pene-
trate the skin and even the intestines of these animals. The strong rhizomes and
tough fibrous roots which this grass has, commend it as a soil binder for river
banks, dams, etc. The awns indicate by their twisting the amount of moisture
iu the air, and may be used as rain or fair weather indicators. In India this grass
is used for thatching. It is a native of tropical and subtropical regions of both
hemispheres, extending northward into western Tc^xas, Now Mixico, and Arizona.

No. 20. Andropogon glomeratus

(Walt.) 15. S. r. lirook-grass.
A stout perennial, 2 to 4 feet high,

with dense, more or less elon- , ^^^^^^^ ^.^ ,, ^^ ^^,

/

Fia.6. — Johnson-graaa (Andropogon hale-
peiisix).

Flo. 7. — ISiishy liliip-slein {Antlropnffvii nntans): a to/,
details of tlio spikelet.

gated, broom-like panicles. It grows in low grounds and marshes from southern
New York to I'lorida, also occurring in Mexico and liower CaliCnrnia. This
species is esteemed a valual)lc pasture gra.ss in the South. Its stems and
leaves when young, are tender and .juicy and are relished by sto(;k of all kinds.
Later the stems become tough and woody and are of less value.

No. 21. Andropogon halepensis (L.) Brot. .Johnson-grass. (Tig. 6.)
A stout ])ereiinial, witli smooth, (Mcc^t culms, 3 to H feet high, .mil strong, creeping
rootstocks. The jtanicles are expanded during llowering and arc from (> to 12
inches long. It is a native of southern Europe and the warmer parts of Asia and
northern Africa. It was introduced into this country about sixty years ago, ;ind
h.iH now become widely distributed and well known throughout the Southern

13

states. In the warmer parts of the Southern States it makes rapid growth, la
but little affected by drought, and the hay, if cut just as the grass is coming
into bloom, is much liked by all kinds of stock. Two or three cuttings may be
made during the season. The extensively creeping rootstocks are fleshy and
tender, and hogs are very fond of them. These roots literally fill the ground near
the surface, and every joint is capable of developing a new stem. This grass,
when once it has become established, is exceedingly difficult to eradicate, and
hence has come to be greatly feared by the majority of farmers. Unless one
wishes to give up his laud entirely to Johnson-grass, and can certainly prevent
its spreading to the lands of others, its introduction would be of doubtful econ-
omy, owing to its powerful and
rapidly spreading roots. In
India the natives make rude
writing pens from the stems.

No. 22. Andropogon hallii Hack.

Turkey-foot.
This is a stout grass, from 3 to 6

feet high, closely related to

the Big P.lue-stem {Andropogon

2)rovincialw), but appears to be

confined to the sandy regions

of the West. It is a good sand

binder and is common in the

sand hills of Nebraska, and

extends southward into Texas.

Its agricultiiral value is not

known, but although more

woody, it is probably nearly

as valuable as Big Blue-stem.

No. 23. Andropogon nutans
Linn. Bushy Blue-stem. (Fig. 7.)

This is a stout perennial, 4 to 6 feet
high, growing in dry soil along
the borders of fields and open
woods, and on the prairies of
the West it often forms a large
proportion of the so-called
prairie hay. It is held in little
esteem in the Eastern and
Southern States, but in the
West it is said to make excel-
lent hay, and is particularly
valuable because of the rela-
tively large amount of long
root-leaves which it produces,
is given the first place among

Fig. 8. — Big Blue-stem (Andropogon provincialis) : a to
g, details of the spikelet.

All stock eat it greedily. In South Dakota it
the native grasses as a hay-producing species,
thriving best on the rich prairie bottoms. During the dry season it produces
but little seed, though it usually makes a good growth of root leaves. In the
middle Atlantic States this grass seeds freely and the seeds are easily collected.

No. 24. Andropogon provincialis Lam. Big Blue-stem. (Fig. 8.)

A stout perennial, with erect, more or less branching, and often bluish or glaucous

stems, 2 to 6 feet high, long leaves, and flowers in short spikes, which stand two

to five close together at the apex of the stem or its branches. These spikes are

bluish or purple, sometimes pale green, and more or less hairy. This grass has

14

a wide range, extending over the United States east of the Kocky Mountains,
and in the West and Northwest, particularly in the Missouri region, it is very
abundant, and is highly valued for hay. It grows in a great variety of soils,
and under extremely varying conditions of climate, and enters largely into the
composition of the hay of the prairies. The early growth consists of a great
adundance of long leaves, and if cut in early bloom the hay is readily eaten by
horses and cattle, but if allowed to fully mature the stems become hard and
woody and the hay produced is of inferior quality. Investigations of the seed
production of this Andropoaon indicate that it matures seed rarely. It is stated
that a very favorable season of moisture is required to make it fruit abun-
dantly. This lack of fertility, if really true, will be a serious obstacle to the
general propagation of the grass by the usual and convenient method of seeding.

No. 25. Andropogon saccharoides Swz. Feather Sedge-grass.

A variable grass, growing to the height of 1 to 3 feet, with nar-
row, silvery-bearded panicles. Some forms of this species
have been introduced into cultivation for ornament. It is a
native of our Southwestern States and Territories, in some
of its varieties extending southward to Chile, where it is re-
garded as one of the best pasture grasses of the Cordilleras.

No. 26. Andropogon scoparius Michx. Little Blue-stem.
(Fig. 9.)

A rather slender perennial, 1 to 3 feet high, more or less branched
above; the slender racemes are single and terminate the
culm or its branches. This grass has a similar range to the
Big Blue-stem, extending over nearly all of the United States
east of the Kocky Mountains, and in the prairie regions it is
nearly always found associated more or less abundaiitly
with the Big Blue-stem and Bushy Blue stem. It is common
in the mountain districts of the South, and is valued there
for grazing. In the West it is cut for hay, but is not so
much thonubt of as the Big Blue-stem. In South Dakota
this is one of the most common grasses in the basins of the
Bad Lands.

No. 27. Andropogon sorghum sativus Hack. Includes the

cultivated varieties of sorghum.
Andropogon sorghum includes many varieties, a number of
which have been recognized by some iintbors as distinct
botanical species under the genus Sornlunu; otheis, includ-
ing Hackel, have referred them all to the genus Androimjnn.
Hackel has elaborately worked out the botanical characters
of the species and characterized tlie known varieties, giving
to each a technical name. It is not necessary here to follow
out his classification, which is apparently good. In the works of otliers there
is much confusion in the botaui(;al classification, and still more in the applica-
tion of the connnon or English names. The same name has been applied to
ditferent varieties and the same variety has often been designated under vaiious
names. All the forms are of Eastern origin, and have arisen probably from a
common stock through ages of cniltivation. From varieties of this species are
obtained grain, which furnishes nutritious food for man and domestic animals,
particularly poultry. Sirup and sugar in commercial quantities are obtained
from the saccharine varieties. The variety mcchavatus, or caiinese sugar-grass,
yields about 13 per cent of sugar, lirooms and brushes, used in ill civilized
countries, are made from the iuliorescence of the variety known as l)room corn,
and all furnish fodder of more or less value for farm stock.

Fio. 9.— Little Blue-

stem (Androimgon
tcoparhin).

In Africa alcoholic

15

drinks are prepared from the grains, and useful coloring pigments are con-
tained in the fruiting glumes. The variety known as Kalir corn (PI. I, tig. 2),
which grows to the height of 4 or 6 feet, has been cultivated with great success
as a fodder plant in the semiarid regions of the West. In fact, all the sorghums
will grow in drier climates or under more trying conditions of drought than
Indian corn. They may be cultivated in much the same Avay as that cereal,
but the seed may he planted more thickly. In chicken corn or white
Egyptian corn (var. cernnuvi) the deusely flowered panicle is abruptly bent
or recurved, so that it points downward. This variety is largely cultivated in
tropical and northern Africa and in some parts of southern Asia, where it is
used as a cereal. It is occasionally grown in this coun-
try, the seed being prized as food for poultry. The vari-
eties adapted for the production of fodder or silage are
particularly valuable for cultivation in the South and
Southwest. The amount of fodder produced is often
very large, of excellent quality, and there are few among
the larger grasses better adapted for soiling. Yellow
Mile Maize, AVhiteMilo Maize, and .Jerusalem Corn, non-
saccharine varieties of Andropogon sorghum, are grown
both for fodder and for the seed, particularly in the
Southwestern States.

No. 28. Andropogon squarrosus. Linn. fil. Vetivert.

A stout perennial, 4 to 6 feet high, with strong, fibrous, and
highly fragrant roots. A native of India, occurring also
in some of the West India Islands and Brazil, growing
in marshes and on river banks. Introduced into l.oui-
siana many years ago, and now spontaneous in some of
the lower parts of that State. Cultivated successfully
at Knoxville, Tenn., where the fragrance of the rhizomes
and roots was developed to a marked degree, btit the
plants did not bloom. In India this grass is largely used
for thatching, and is woven into mats, which serve as
screens or shades for doors and windows (tatties), awn-
ings, covers for palanquins, and fans, and brushes used
by weavers in arranging the thread of the web are made
from either the roots or the whole plant. The roots, laid
among clothing, impart a pleasing fragrance to the gar-
ments and are said to keep thorn free from insects. Fans
made from the root fibers were among the articles on sale
at the World's Fair in the Javanese bazaar. The roots
are an article of commerce sold by druggists. In Euro-
pean drugstores the roots are known as lUtdix miatheri or Radix vetiveriw, a stim-
ulant or antiseptic. They yield a perfume known as vetivert, or, in India, itar.

No. 29. Andropogon virginicus Linn. Broom-sedge. (Fig. 10.)
A rigidly erect perennial, 2 to 4 feet high, bearing a narrow, elongated, and loosely-
branched panicle of silky-bearded racemes. The stems are strongly flattened
near the base, and at maturity they are too hard and woody to be eaten by stock
or to be of any value for hay. When young, however, this grass affords most
excellent grazing. Milch cows fed upon it are said to yield butter of superior
quality. There is probably no native grass better known to the farmers of the
South than this, aud although possessing some value, as here indicated, it is,
broadly speaking, one of the worst weeds of that section, interfering seriously
with the formation of permanent meadows. Constant tillage or very close graz-
ing appears to be the only means of keeping this grass from occupying the land.

Fig. 10. — Broom Sedge
(Andrupoc/on virgini-
cus).

16

No. 30. AntLoxanthum odoratum Linn. Sweet Vernal-grass. (Fig. 11.)
A jierennial, early-flowering, sweet-scented grass, introduced into this country from
Eurojie, and tiow widely distribut<>d over the Eastern and Central States. It is
an inferior fodder grass, but owing to its earliuess it possesses some value in
mixtures for pastures, and its sweet scent adds a pleasing fragrance to hay, of
which it should form only a small percentage. The leaves have a bitter taste,
and the grass is apparently unpalatable to stock, for they will not readily eat
it. It is regarded as a serious jjest in New Zealand. The stems have been used

in the manufacture of imitation Leg-
horn hats. Average number of grains
in 1 pound of pure seed, 924,000.
Price of seed cjuoted in New York
catalogues, $6 per bushel. Weight
per bushel, about 10 pounds.

No. 31. Aristida fasciculata Torr.

Needle-grass. (Fig. 12.)

Needle-grass grows from 6 inches to a foot
high, and is a njitive of the arid re-
gions, from Montana southward to
Texas, where it is particularly abun-
dant in poor soils, and presents a great
variety of forms. It is usually found
in dry, gravelly soils on the plains,
mesas, and foothills. In the Eastern
and Middle States the species of Aris-
tida are deemed of little or no value,
but in the Southwest, where every
mouthful of fodder of any sort has
value, they are not wholly worthless.
Arti<Hda schiedeaiia and vl. hromoides,
growing ui)on rocky and desert soil in
Arizona and New Mexico, supply in
their thin, scattered tufts "dainty
bits seized upon by stock with avid-
ity." (I'ringle. )

No. 32. Aristida stricta Michx. Wire-
grass.

This is one of the "wire-grasses" of the
Southern States, growing to the lieiglit
of 2or;5 leet. Tliesiiiijjle stems are ter-
minated by a narrow panicle, usually a
foot in length. It is common along dry,
sandy ridges and in the pine barrens.

Fig. 11. — Sweet Vernal-grass (Anthoxanthwn
odoratum): a, spikelet; b, floret; c, aiidro-
gyiieciiiiii.

No. 33. Arrhenatherum elatius (L.) M. A: K. Tall Oat-grass. (Fig. 13.)
A loosely tutted perennial, 2 to t feet high, introduced from Europe as a fodder grass
and now quite generally uistril)uted over tlie regions east of the Mississippi. In
Europe it is regarded as one of the best meadow grasses, but is not recommended
for pastures. It does well in the Southern States, where it is frequently culti-
vated, and is valued Itoth for winter grazing and for hay. In California it is
sjtoken of in the highest terms, particularly for its drought-resisting (lualities.
It does not form a very comi)act turf, and when sown should be mixed with
other grasses. It grows rapidly, blooms early, and when cut dries out readily.
It is not suited to heavy, moist soils, but tlirives best on loamy sands or loams.
It produces a largo yield, antl on good soils three or four cuttings may be

17

obtained during the season. It is best sown in the spring, but in the .Southern
States it may be; sown in September to advantage. In New Zealand this grass
is spoken of as fast becoming a weed in mixed pastures ; and, further, it is stated
that the early growth is much relished by stock, but later in the season it is not
touched. On rich, clayey loam this grass has made a yield of 17,015 pounds of
green fodder, 6,380 pounds of hay, and 13,612 pounds of green aftermath per
acre. When sown alone, the amount of seed to sow per acre is 5 to 6 bushels.
Owing to the structure of the seed, it may be sown deeper than most other
grasses. Average number of grains in one pound of pure seed, 1.59,000. Price of

seed, quoted from New York
catalogues, $3.2.5 per bushel,
or $18 per 100 pounds.

Fig. 12. — Needle-grass (Aristida fasciculata) -. a, fipikelet;
b, indurated flowering glume, the awns cut off.

Fig. 13.— Tall Oat-grass (Arrhe
natherum elatius).

No. 34. Arundinaria macrosperma Michx. Cane. (Fig. 14.)

This is the bamboo which forms the well-known canebrakes of the South. It is
perennial, with woody stems 10 to .30 feet high, and evergreen leaves, which
furnish a valuable supplement to the winter pastures. The plant blooms but
once, and when the seeds mature the cane dies. The canes are used for many
purposes, such as iishing rods, scaffolds for drying cotton, splints for baskets,
mats, etc. Attempts made to cultivate this grass have not been successful.

No. 35. Arundinaria tecta (Walt.; Muhl. Small Cane.

This is regarded by some as only a variety of the cane mentioned above, but it is of
smaller growth, rarely exceeding 10 feet in height, and extends as far north as
Maryland. It forms extensive "canebrakes" in many parts of the Southern
States, and its perennial leafage, together with the younger stems and branches,
supply forage for thousands of cattle during the winter season. This fodder,
4393— No. 14 2

18

however, does little more than sustiiin the life of the auiuials. It is of little or
no value for fattening cattle or for milch cows.
No. 36. Arundo donax Linn. Reed.

A tall, leafy perennial, attaining the height of 10 to 15 feet, or in very favorahle
locations even 30 feet. The leaves are broad and widely spreading and the
stems are leafy to near the top. The panicle has some resemblance to that of
pampas grass, but is not so large. This grass is grown for lawn decoration and
to conceal unsightly objects. It is a native of southern Europe, northern Africa,

and western Asia, and is said
to be spontaneous along the
Kio Grande. In some coun-
tries the stout stbms are used
for laths and, when split, for
woven worl< ; the leaves are
used for thatch or rooling, and
the stout rhizomes are em-
]iloyed as a diuretic. A culti-
vated variety has its broad
leaves striped with longitudi-
nal white bands. It presents
a very striking ai»pearance.
This grass is ]>ropagated l>y
transplanting the roots, which
work may be done at any time
during the season. After
growth has fairly commenced
the subsequent development
is very rapid, and for this
reason it is one of the most
important plants of its class
for quickly producing scenic
elVects or for concealing un-
sightly objects.

No. 37. Astrebla pectinata F. v.

Mnell. Mitchell- grass.
A smooth, <'reet grass, 1^ to 3 feet
high, with liat. long-pointed
leaves and densely llowered
terminal spikes or heads. It
is a native of Australia, grow-"
ing naturally upon the inte-
rior })lain8. It is regarded by
the stockmen of that country
as the best of all native
grasses, both for its drought-
enduring qualities and for its
fattening projierties. If cut just when coming into bloom, it makes excellent
hay. The setnl is produced in abnndance, and is easily collected. This may
prove a valuable grass for the seniiarid districts of the Southwest. The seeds
of this grass, as well as tliose of the closely related Axtrebla triticoides, weic
formerly used as food by the natives of Australia.
No. 38. Avena americana Si ribn. American Oat-grass.

In the grassy parks and on the foothills of tlu' eastern slopes of the Rocky Moun-
tains, tliis Arena, which closely resembles the Arena pratenau of Europe, is fre-
quently found associated with the other »ative grasses. Where abundant y^,

fVi. H.—ii^Wi (j^ruudinafia tnacrotperma) : a
U, jimIi'.-i and liidiciilcs; r, frraiii.

floret;

19

makes a valuable additiou to the grazing resources of the country. It is deserv-
ing of a trial under cultivation.

No. 39. Avena fatua Linn. Wild-oats. (Fig. 15.)

An erect annual, 2 to 3 feet high, with loose, ojien piiniclcs, 8 to 10 inches long, the
whole aspect of the plant closely resembling forms of the cultivated oat. The
spikelets are larger, however, and the flowering glumes are covered with long,
brown hairs, and have a twisted awn an inch in length. It is a native of the
Mediterranean region, but is now widely distributed over grain-growing coun-
tries, and with the closely related J. harhata Brot. is especially common in Cal-
ifornia and Oregon, and has spread eastward to Minnesota. It is of rare
occurrence in the Eastern States. By some this is 8ui)posed to be the original
of the cultivated oat (Avena satira),
which is said to readily degenerate into
it. Avena fatua is in most places regarded
as a troublesome weed. When abundant
in the grain fields, it occupies the place
of better plants, and reduces the gr.ule
of the thrashed grain by the admixture
of its inferior and lighter seeds. The stiff
and twisted awns are injurious to stock,
as they freijuently cause irritation of the
nostrils and mouths of the cattle feeding
upon them. In California the young
plants, before the bearded or awned spike-
lets mature, are esteemed for grazing and
forage. "The use of the Wild-oat, with its
brown, hairy seed and twisted awn, as an
artificial fly by fishermen, is well known,
the uncoiling of the awn when, wetted
causing those contortions by which it
imitates a fly in trouble." (Hooker.) A
form of the Wild-oat with the flowering
glume smooth (var. (iJahrescena Coss.) is
quite widely distributed on the Pacific
Slope, where it has become a most trouble-
some weed in wheat fields.

Fig. 15.— Wild Oats {Avena fatua) .

No. 40. Avena pubescens Linn. Downy
Oat- grass.

This grass is similar in habit and appearance
to Arena fatua, l)ut is much less com-
mon. It is a European grass, and. has thence been Introduced into this country.
It is occasionally found in the grain region of the Pacific Slope. The soils best
suited to the growth of this grass are sandy loams, upon which it is valuable
for early mowing and pasturage Under favorable conditions it has produced
15,654 pounds of green fodder, or 5,870 pounds of hay, and 6,860 poundj of after-
math per acre.

No. 41. Avena sativa Linn. Oats.

A well-known erect annual, 2 to 4 feet high, with flat leaves and expanded panicles
of rather large pendulous spikelets. There are many varieties, which have been
divided into two classes, "panicle oats" with widely spreading panicle branches;
and "banner oats" with the panicles somewhat contracted and one-sided.
These two races are divided into "chaffy'' and "naked-fruited" sorts; further
varieties are established upcwi the color, form, or some special character of the
grain. Oats have been cultivated from very early times in Europe, and they

20

form the princii)al grain of such northern countries as Norway and Sweden, and
Scotland, and iu these countries boiled oatmeal and oatmeal cakes are impor-
tant articles of food. Boiled oatmeal is also much used in this country, espe-
cially at breakfast. The grain, however, is principally cultivated here as food
for horses. In the Southern States, oats, particularly winter oats, are largely
grown for forage. Sown in August, they fiu'uish the best grazing from Octo-
ber to the latter part of Aiiril, and will then yield a more certain and a larger
crop of grain than spring-sown oats. They are often cut green for soiling and
for hay. Oat hay is quite extensively used in the South and in Calif(U-nia. The
practice is to cut Avheu the grain is iu the ''dough" stage, or when the straw
commences to turn yellow below the head and the leaves are still green. The
yield ranges from 3 to 4^ tons per acre, according to the variety and the season.
The feeding value of oat hay is higher than that of tinutthy, containing about
8.8 percent of crude protein, and 55 to 05 percent of fat formers, while the latter
(timothy) contains from 5 to 7 per cent crude protein, and 45 to 55 per cent
fat formers. Among the cereals, oats are the most nutritious, hut oaten Hour
lacks the gluten of wheat, rendering the making of bread from it impossible.
Oatmeal is richer in nitrogenous matter than soft wheats, and contains more fat
than any of the other grains. Russian "quae'' beer is made from oats.

No. 42. Avena sterilis L. Animated Oats.

A stout, oat-like grass, with one-sided panicles, and very large, awuedspikelets ; the
awn is very long, twisted, and "kneed" or geniculate. It is the twisting and
untwisting of these awns when exposed to changes of moisture and dryness that
has given to this grass the common name of "animated oats." The untwisting
or coiling-up of the awn causes the spikelets to tumble about in various directions,
suggestive of independent motion or life-like activity.

No. 43. Bambusa. Bamboo.

The bamboos belong to the Bamhusea, a trihe of grasses numbering about 175 species,
chietiy limited to South America, southern and eastern Asia, and the East Indies.
There are no Euro]tean species, and only two in North America (see Arundinaria).
Of the whole number of species only one is common to both hemispheres. The
largest bamboos attain a height of IL'O feet, with a diameter of a foot or more.
A South American species has leaves 3 to 12 inches wide and 5 to 15 feet long.
In India are extensive bamboo forests, and in countries where these grasses
abound they are employed for many jnirposes. They furnish material for the
complete construction and furnishing (including domestic utensils) of houses.
They are used iu shipbuilding and in the construction of bridges. Buckets,
liitchers, llasks, and cups are made from sections of the stems. Baskets, boxes,
fans, hats, and jackets are made from split bamboo. Ropes and Chinese paper
are made from these grasses. A Chinese umbrella consists of bamboo paper,
with a bamboo handle and split bamboo for a frame. The leaves are used for
packing, filling beds, etc., and occasionally serve as fodder for stock. The
young shoots serve as a vegetable. Tabashir, <>r bamboo maiiua, a silicious
and crystalline substance which occurs in the hollow stems of some bamboos, is
regarded as itossessing medicinal properties. Good drinking water collects in
quantities in the hollows of the internodes of many of the larger bamboos. All
sorts of agricultural implements, appliances for spinning cotton and wool or for
reeling silk, are often (onstructed entirely from bamboo. Aery many articles
of househohl use or decoration made from bamboo have become articles of com-
mene in Europe and this country. So many and varied are the uses of the
several species of bamboo, that it is possible to mention here only a small part
of them. Bamboos are propagated by seed, but more often by cuttings. I'lants
from the seed do not attain a sufficient growth to admit (Topi)iiig under 10 or 12
years.

21

No. 44. Beckmannia erucaeformis (L.) Host. Hlongh-grass. (Fig. 16.)
A stout, erect, subiifiuiitic perennial, 1 to 4 feet high, with narrow, densely flowered
panicles. The leaves are hroad and Hat, and the stems are coarse but tender,
becoming somewhat woody when old. It grows along the banks of streams and
rivers and frequently follows the course of the irrigating
ditches. When young, however, this grass is palatable
and readily eaten by stock. In some portions of the North-
west, to which region this grass is confined in this country,
it often occurs in such (|uantities as to constitute an import-
ant part of the forage of low pasture lands. It may be recog-
nized by the peculiar, si)ike-like branches of the panicle,
which have some resemblance to the rattles of a rattle-
snake, and for this reason it is sometimes called "Rattle-
snake-grass." It i.s deserving of trial under cultivation for
low meadow lands in the more Northern States, and is
especially adapted to irrigated alkaline lands.

No. 45. Bouteloua curtipendula (Mx.) Torr. Side Oats.
■ (Fig. 17.)
This is among the tallest of our species of Bouteloua, the rather

stout, tufted stems being from 1 to 3 feet high. It has

tough, perennial, fibrous roots, flat, long-pointed leaves,

and many short spikes arranged along the upper portion

of th<- stem. Its range extends
from New .lersey westward to
the Rocky Mountains and south-
ward through Texas into Mexico.
Where abundant, it is said to
make fair hay, and the numerous
root leaves afford good pastur-
age. The hay is readily eaten
by stock, but on the range cattle
show a decided preference for
Blue Grama. Several species of
Grama have been successfully

grown in small cultures at some of the experiment
stations, but none of them, although apparently most
valuable as i»asture grasses for the semiarid regions,
have been introduced into general cultivation.

No. 46. Bouteloua eriopoda Torr. Black Grama.

This is one of the species of Grama so valuable for grazing
in New Mexico and Texas. The slender stems are 1 to
2 feet high, and from its thrifty habit of growth it
forms dense and excellent pasturage wherever it
grows abundantly. It is a common grass along the
Rio Grande and in the region between the Pecos and
the Gila ; also in the Olympia, Guadalupe, and Eagle
mountains, and on the Staked Plains in Texas. The
woolly-jointed stems at once serve to distinguish this
from the allied species of Bouteloua.

No. 47. Bouteloua oligostachya (Nutt.) Torr. Blue, or

White Grama. (Fig. 18.)

This is one of the most abundant and most valued of the Grama grasses, and extends

from Wisconsin westward to California, and southward into Texas and northern

Mexico. It is a perennial, 6 to 18 inches high, its strong rhizomes and numerous

Fig. 16.— Slough-grass
(Beckmannia eruece-
formig).

Fig. 17. — Side Oats {Boute-
loua curtipendula).

22

root-leaves forming dense and more or less extensive patches of excellent turf.
In Montana it is known as Buft'alo-grass. It frequents the bench lands of th it
State, growing at elevations of from 3,000 to 4,000 or 5,000 feet, and not infre-
quently covers wide areas. Xo other grass better withstands the tramping of
stock, and it is unsurpassed for grazing purposes. In the early dajs in the
Southwest it formed a large proportion of the hay delivered at the various mili-
tary posts and stage stations, and was considered the best ol)tainable there.
Like the true Bufl'alo-grass, it cures during the dry season in the turf into perfect
hay, losing none of its nutritious properties.

No. 48. Bouteloua polystachya Torr. Low Grama.

This is a small, slender grass, of good quality. It is one of the smallest of the
Gramas, aud only occurs sparingly here and there in scattered tufts. It rarely

exceeds 6 inches in height, and is confined to the
arid regions of the Southwest.

No. 49. Bouteloua repens (HBK.) Scribn. Creep-
ing Granui.

A common grass in the vicinity of Acapulco, Mexico,
where, according to Dr. E. Palmer, it occurs on
the highest mountains and down their stony
slopes to the water's edge. Greedily eaten by
stock.

No. 50. Bouteloua texana Watson. (Seed Mescjuit.)

This is a small but excellent grass, common about 8an

Antonio and at other i)oints in Texas, chieHy along

the Rio Grande. It is recognized as an important

grass in the stock ranges.

No. 51. Brachypodium japonicum Miq. Japanese
Wheat- grass.

A promising Japanese perennial, closely resembling
Bearded Wheat-grass (Agropi/ron caninum), but of
rather stronger growth. It was iutroduced into
California by the Agricultural Experiment Station
of the University of California, at Berkeley, from
New Zeahmd, in 1886, and the first seed was dis-
tributed in California in 1889. It has been culti-
vated with success at a number of points in Cali-
fornia and at several of the exi)erimeiit stations in
the East. In tlie Southern States it is regarded as
a valuable grass for winter, grazing, as it makes
its best growth during the cooler months.

Small Quaking-grass. (Fig. 19.)
An erect ])erennial, from 1 to 2 feet higli, introduced into this country from Europe
]»ecause of its pleasing ornamental apitearance. It has escapiMl from cultivation
in many places, and has becomt; sparingly naturalized. It is occasionally <ulti-
\ ated for ornament; the nodding panicles of rather showy spikelets are used
for winter bou(|uet8. It is but little known here, but is classed as a valuable
m<!adow grass in Middle Euroi>e and is recommended as an admixture for i)as-
tures on dry, thin soils. liriza minor is a smaller and niorc^ delicate annual
species, .also cultivated occasionally as an ornamental and for dry bouquets.
/!ri:(i maxima, also an annual, is a larger ornamental species.

No. 53. Bromus ciliatus Linn. Swamp Chess.

A native perennial of wide range, frequent in open woodlands, growing to the height
of 3 to ."> feet. It is leafy to the toj), and would doubtless make a hay grass of

Fio. 18— Blue, or White Grama
{Bouteloua oligostachya) .

No. 52. Briza media Linn.

23

good appeaTance, aTthougli of somewhat inferior quality. No attempts Iiave
been made to cultivate ir, lor agricultural purposes. It makes a vigorous early
growth on good soils ami is recommended for propagation in wooded parks and
woodland pastures.

No. 54. Bromus inermis Leyss. Smooth Brome-grass. (Fig. 20.)
An erect perennial, 2 to 5 feet high, with strong creeping rootstocks, and a loose open
panicle, 4 to 6 inches long. A native of Europe introduced into this country by
the Agricultural Experiment Station of the University of California about 1880,.
which gives considerable promise of value both for haj^ and pasturage. It is
strongly stoloniferous, and quickly makes a thick, firm turf. It appears to'
grow with equal vigor in Canada and in Tennessee, remaining green through-
out the winter season in the latter Stiate. The strong p«rennia.l character of

Fig. 19. — Small Quaking-grass (Bnza
media).

Fig. 20. — Smooth Brome-grass (Bromus
inermis).

this Brome-grass and its unusual drought-resisting powers are qualities which
recommend it for general cultivation, particularly in the semiarid regions of the
West and Northwest. It thrives well on dry, loose soil, but of course the better
the soil the greater the yield. Its nutritive value is comparatively low, and
before undertaking its cultivation the fact should be remembered that it is
somewhat difEcult to eradicate when once established, although by no means so
difficult as Couch-grass or Johnson-grass. In Europe it is classed among the
best hay grasses. The seeds are quoted in New York catalogues at from $20 to
$22 per 100 pounds. A bushel weighs about 14 pounds. Sow three bushels to
the acre if sown alone. In this country the yield of seed per acre has been 600
pounds, which at the prices named would make it a very profitable crop. Pro-
fessor Fletcher, of Canada, reports a yield of 3f tons of hay per acre.

24

No. 55. Bromus pumpellianus Scrihn. Western Brome-grass.

A native of tlu^ Northwestern States in the Rocky Mouutaiu region, extending into
Canada. In habit of growth it closely resembles Hungarian, or Smooth Brome-
grass (B. inermis), and is doubtless equally valuable. Prof. .Jame.s Fletcher, who
has cultivated this grass at the experiment station at Ottawa, Canada, says,
"This is a very valuable grass, producing an abundance of leaves, continuing in
flower for a long time, and giving a heavy aftermath."

No. 56. Bromus racemosus Linn. Upright Chess.

An introduced annual, 1 to 3 feet high, with more or less spreading and nodding
panicles and smooth sjiikelets. This is a very common grass in cultivated lields
and waste places, and is often mistaken for Chess, from which it differs chiefly
in its narrower pauides and .straight awns, which are nearly as long as the

Fio. 21.— Chess {Bromiu seealinui).

Fig. 22.— Rescue-grass (Bromux xmioloides) .

flowering glumes. This grass has become very common in certain .sections, par-
ticularly in the South. A lield of it presents an attractive appearance, and the
hay produced is of good quality.

No. 57. Bromus secaliuus Linn. Chess; Cheat. (Fig. 21.)

A well-known, weedy, annual grass, introduced into this country many years ago,
and now common in grain fields and waste lauds. The panicle is spreading and
more or les.s drooping, and the awns of the flowering glumes are usually much
shorter than the glumes themselves and more or less fltjxuose. The idea that
Cheat or Chess is degenerated wheat has no foundation whatever in fact. Only
Cheat seeds will produce Cheat, and it is certain that wherever these plants
appear they were preceded by ( "heat seeds, which may have been introduced with
the grain sown, or brouglit by birds or animals from other lields. Cheat and
wheat are only remotely related; they belong to quite distinct tribes in the grass

25

It grows to the height

Fig. 23.— Buffalo-grass (Bul-
hilis dacti/loicleg) . a , female
plant; b, male plant.

family; wheat is less likely to change into cheat in a single generation than
into the more nearly allied oats, or than wheat is to change into barley, with
which it is very closely related.

No. 58. Bromus unioloides Willd. Rescue-grass. (Fig. 22.)

This Bromus, which is a native of South America, and probably also of the extreme

southwestern ijortion of the United States, is a strong-growing grass, with

rather broad, much flattened, usually bearded spikelets.

of 1 to 3 feet, and in the more vigorous plants the

branches of the nodding panicle are widely spreading.

It grows rapidly, seeds freely, and dies after seeding.

If, by frequent mowing or close grazing, it is prevented

from going to seed, its duration may be continued

over two or three years or more. If the seeds are

allowed to fall, as they frequently do when mature,

young plants soon appear, and a fairly continuous

growth of this grass may thus be maintained. In

many parts of the Southern States, where it has been

most cultivated, it has come to be regarded as one of

the best winter grasses, as it makes its chief growth

during the cooler months of the year. Sow in Augnst

or September, at the rate of 30 to 40 pounds to the acre.

No. 59 Bulbilis dactyloides (Nutt.) Eafin. Buffalo-
grass. (Fig. 23.)

This is the true Bnff'alo-grass of the Great Plains region,

which is reported to have been much more abundant and more widely distributed
in times past than it is at present. Now, however, it is known to extend from
the British Possessions southward into Texas, where it is considered an invalu-
able grass and one of the best constituents of sheep pastures. It has a low habit

of growth, rarely more than 5 or 6 inches high, and pro-
duces numerous creeping and widely spreading branches
or stolons, which root at the joints, each joint forming a
new tuft, and in this way the grass often covers large
areas with a close mat of fine-leafed herbage, which is
greatly relished by all grazing animals. As a winter for-
age, it is without an equal. The habit of growth of this
plant is very similar to that of Bermiula-grass, but the
stems and leaves are much finer and the turf formed more
compact. Live roots transplanted from Nebraska to the
grounds of the Department of Agriculture at Washing-
ton, D. C, have groAvn with remarkable vigor, and it may
be possible to utilize this most palatable and nutritious
grass in portions of the Eastern or Southern States.

No. 60. Calamagrostis canadensis (Michx.) Beauv. Blue-
joint. (Fig. 24.)
A native grass common in the Northern and Northwestern
States, extending clear across the continent, usually
growing in moist meadows. The leafy stems are 3 to 5
feet high, and the open brown or purplish panicles have
some resemblance to those of Redtop. Occasionally it is
found occupying considerable areas to the exclusion of other grasses, and under
such conditions it yields a large amount of excellent hay, highly prized by farm-
ers and eaten with avidity by all farm stock. This grass grows naturally on low,
moist meadows, and has succeeded well under cultivation. In the northern por-
tion of the United States its more extended culture for hay is recommended.

Fk;. 24.— Blue-joint (Gal-
amagroetis canadensis).

26

No. 61. Calamagrostis cinnoides (Mulil.) Spreng. Reed Bentgra.ss.

A stout, reed-like grass, 3 to 5 feet bigh, not infrequent in low, moist grounds and
swamps, ranging from New England southward to Tennessee. No attemi)t&
have been made to cultivate it, and little is known of its agricultural value.
Probably of some use for low woodlands where grasses are desired for pasturage,
and if it will thriv^e in the open it would make a most excellent hay-grass for
low meadows.

No. 62. Calamagrostis hyperborea americana (Vasey) Kearu. Yellow-top.

A very common grass in low meadows and shady river banks throughout the North-
west. It artords a large amount of excellent hay if cut in proper season. A
good grass for cultivation in moist, sandy meadows.

No. 63. Calamagrostis neglecta(Ehrh.)Gaertn. Pony-
grass.

A rather slender, erect i)erennial, with narrow leaves,
and a contracted, densely flowered, brownish panicle,
3 to 6 inches long. A native of Northern Eurojie and
North America, ranging along our northern borders
from Newfoundland and Maine to tlie Pacific, being
most abundant in the Rocky Mountain region. Under
experimental cultivation it has succeeded well. It is
a productive grass, much liked by stock, especially
horses, and is deserving a place among the cultivated
species.

No. 64. Calamagrostis suksdorfii Scribn. Pine-grass.

A rather slender, erect grass, 2 to 3 feet high, with
smooth stems, narrow leaves, and contracted, usually
pale, straw-colored panicles. A common grass in the
Northwest, growing in low pine woods or on moist
mountain slopes. It is said to be one of the most
common grasses in Washington, and it presents all
the ([ualities of an excellent hay or pasture grass.

No. 65. Calamovilfa lougifolia (Hook) Scribn. Sand-
grass. (Fig. 2.5.)
A stout, long-leafed grass, 1 to 4 feet high, growing in
sands or sandy soil along the siiorcs of the (ireat
Lakes and iu the Missouri region of the West, ex-
tending southward to Kansas. Its very strong and
far-reaching rhizomes or creeping "roots" make this
an exceedingly valuable grass for binding drifting
sands, or those subject to wash by swift currents or
the beating of the waves. As a sand binder for interior regions of the country
this grass is probably unsurpassed. Its bmg, tough leaves suggest a possible
vahn- for jtajier making.

No. 66. Campulosus aromaticus (Walt.) Sdribn. Toothache-grass. (Fig. 2t!. )

A perennial grass with erect stems 3 to 4 feet high. Native of the Southern States
from Virginia southward, growing in the wet pine barrens, possessing no agri-
cultural value, liut rather cnrinus in ajtpearance. The strong rootstocks are
leuion-scented and have a pungent taste.

No. 67. Ceuclirus echinatus Linn. Cock-spur.

A rather stout annual, with branching culms 1 to 2 feet long, and dense heads or
spikes made n\> of 20 or more globul.ir, spiny burs containing the sj)ikel<'ts. It
is a weed of the fields and waste places of the Southern and .Southwestern States.

Fig. 25. — .-^aiul-jri-jms (Oalamo-
vilfa lumjifolia).

27

No. 68. Cenchrus tribuloides Linn. Saud-bur. (Fig. 27.)

A widely distributed grass growing in sandy soils along river bants, tie seasliore
and more or less scattered tbroughout tbe interior of tbe country in sandy dis-
tricts. It is one of tbe w orst of annual weeds wherever it becomes abundant.
The prostrate branching stems are 1 to 2 feet long ; tbe spikes are composed of
10 to 15 strongly spiny burs, which readily become detached and adhere to
passing objects. No pains should be spared in efforts to exterminate this grass
wherever it makes its appearance.

No. 69. Chaetochloa glauca (Linn.) Scribn. Yellow Foxtail. (Fig. 28.)
An erect annual, 1 to 2 feet high, with flat leaves, and a bristly, cylindrical, s])ike-
like, densely flowered panicle 1 to 3 inches long. Tliis grass is widely distrib-
uted throughout the tropical and warmer temperate regions of the world, grow-

FiG. 26. — Tooth ach(> - s v » s s
( Oainpvloiiu>i arotnaticus).

Fifi. 27.— Sand-bur {Cenehrus tribu-
loides).

Fig. 28.— Yellow
Foxtail (Chceto-
chloa glauca).

ing as a weed in cultivated grounds. It is especially common in the Southern
States, where it continues t<> bloom throughout the season, from June to Octo-
ber. It is distinguished from Seta^-ia viridis by its somewhat larger sjiikelets
and more widely spreading yellowish bristles.

No. 70. Chaetochloa italica (Linn.) Scribn. Millet; Hungarian-grass. (Fig. 30.)
This grass, in some of its varieties, has been cultivated in the East for many centu-
ries, and in some parts of India and Trans-Caucasia it still forms an important
article of food. Its culture extends back to an early date in Egypt, and in the
lake dwellings of the stone age it is found in such quantities that it must be
regarded as tbe main bread supply of the prehistoric peoples (Hackel). In
Europe and in this country it is cultivated to some extent for fodder and for the

28

Beed, the latter being used chiefly for fowls. It grows rapidly, and may he cnt
within sixty or sixty-live days from the time of sowing. If used for fodder, it
should he cut just as it begins to head, before blooming, for when more advanced
it is apt to be injurious to stock fed upon it. When cut in good season it is one
of the most valuable of soiling plants. German Millet, Cluvtochloa germanica
(fig. 29), is only a variety of ChwtocMoa italica, distinguished by its smaller,
more compact, and erect heads, the bristles of which are usually ])nrpli8h. Sow
2 to 8 pecks per acre for hay. One peck is sufficient when sown for seed.

No. 71. Chaetochloa magna (Griesb.) Scribn. Giant Millet. (PI. II.)

This native millet grows in swami)s along the coast from Florida to Delaware. The

leaves are very broad and long, and the stems are often 8 or 10 feet in height.

It is one of the most promising grasses for use in the reclamation of swampy

Fio. 29.— German Millet (Ohceto-
chloa germanica) .

Fia. 30.— Millet (Ohcetochloailalica).

lands along the foast. It has been giown successfully in the grass garden on
the Department grounds. A single plant, with much branched stems, is showu
in PI. II.

No. 72. Chaetochloa verticillata (Linn.) Scribn. Bristly Foxtail.

Has about the same wide distribution as Chittoihlua j/hinca, but is much less com-
mon in the United States. It is rarely found exce])t in waste town lots and
about dwellings in the Atlantic States. The bristles in this species are barbed
downward, on account of which the "heads" cling to clothing or other objects
with which they may come in contact. A weed.

No. 73. Chaetochloa viridis (Linn.) Scrilm. Green Foxtail.

Similar in hiibit to (luitoclduu (jlaiua, wilb about the same distribution, and eqn.ally
common in this country, appearing as a weed in all cultivated grounds. It

Bui. 14, Div. of Agrostology

Plate II.

Single Plant of native "Giant Millet" in Grass Garden of the U.
Department of Agriculture.

S.

29

begins to bloom <i little earlier than the Yellow Foxtail, the more numerous
spikelets are smaller, the head or panicle less erect, and the bristles usually
green, not 3"ellow, as in that species. The stems are very tough and may be
utilized for making paper.

No. 74. Chloris barbata Sw. Bearded Crowfoot.

This and the very similar C. elegans of our Southwestern States and Territories are
pleasing ornamental grasses, growing to the height of 1 to 2 feet, the main stem
and branches being terminated by 3 to 10 bearded spikes, which impart to them
a striking appearance and make them valuable ornamentals. C. poUjdactyla,
a West Indian sjiecies which has been found in southern Florida, is equally
attractive, and has longer and more graceful spikes. C. barhata appears to be
the only one generally cultivated, but there are several native species which
are quite as ornamental. C. gracilis,
a native of Central America and Mex-
ico, is another species occasionally
cultivated for ornament.

No. 75. Chloris glauca (Chapm.) Vasey.

Smooth Chloris. (Fig. 31.)
A strong-growing grass, with diffusely

spreading and ascending stems, 2 to

4 feet long, bearing 10 to 2.5 slender

terminal spikes. Native of Florida,

growing on brackish marshes and

along the borders of cypress swamps.

This is a handsome species, well de^

serving the attention of the florist

and although not at present recog-
nized as possessing any agricultural

value, it produces a large amount of

comparatively tender herbage and

may prove to be a desirable fodder

plant for certain localities along the

Gulf coast. It has made a good

growth under cultivation on clayey

soil at Washington, D. C.

No. 76. Chloris verticillata Nutt.
Windmill-grass.

A low, spreading perennial, with upright
lloworiug branches 6 to 20 inches high.
The small awned spikelets are in slen-
der spikes, which are crowded near the apex of the stems, and become widely-
spreading at maturity. This grass is common in many places in central Texas,
New Mexico, Arizona, northward to Kansas, and by some ie spoken of very highly
as an excellent grass for grazing, and one not easily tramped out. The arrange-
ment of the spikes gives the grass an odd and somewhat pleasing appearance, mak-
ing it of some use as an ornamental species for gardens. It is a good turf-former.

No. 77. Cinna ariindinacea Linn. Indian Reed.

A tall, leafy grass, 3 to 7 feet high, native and frequent in shaded swamps and damp
woods or along streams in wet meadows. For such places it may possess some
agricultural value, as it yields a large amount of excellent hay where growing
abundantly.

No. 78. Coix lacryma-jobi Linn. .Job's Tears.

This grass is a native of southern Asia, and is occasionally cultivated in this country

Fifi. 31. — Smooth Chloris (Chloris glauca).

30

for ornament or as a curiosity. It is cultivated for food by some of the hill tribes
of India, and supplies a staple article of diet of the Tankhul Nagas of Manipur.
The female dowers of this j^rass are inclosed in a nearly glolmlar, capsule-like
covering, Avhich is A'ery hard and becomes nearly -white with age. In some coun-
tries these capsules are used for dress ornanjentation and by the Catholics for
rosaries. In China this grass is cultivated 1o some extent, because the fruit is
believed to be valuable as a diuretic and antiphthisis. It is a hardy annual, 2 to
3 feet high, with broad leaves and a curious, nodding inflorescence. The "seeds"
may be obtained from any of the leading seedsmen.

No. 79. Cynodon dactylon Pers. Bermuda- grass. (Fig. 32. )

A grass widely dispersed over tlie tropical regions and warmer countries of the globe.
It has a creeping habit of growth, extending over the surface of the ground and

rooting at the joints. In poor soils the
leaves are short and the upright flowering
stems are only a few inclies high, but on
good land it grows to the height of 1 to 2
feet and yields a large amount of excellent
hay. It may be cut three or four times dur-
ing the season. In the Northern States it
does not aftord a profitable crop and Is of
little value for pasturage north of Virginia,
but in the Southern States and in the warm-
er regions of the Southwest and on the Paciflc
slope it is cultivated extensively and is most
highly prized, chiefly for grazing, all kinds
of stock being exceedingly fond of it. It
grows freely on sandy soils where other
grass<s will not thrive, and resists extreme
drought aud high temperatures. It is par-
ticularly a, sun-loving grass, and will not
thrive in the shade. It is useful for binding
drifting sands and the loose soil of embank-
ments or those subject to wash. It makes a
])leasing lawn grass, aud is extensively used
for this purpose in the liotter portions of
the United States, for it will thrive where
the grasses ordinarily employed for lawns
could not survive. The yield of hay under
good conditions is from 3 to 4 tons to the
acre, and as high as 10 tons to the acre have
been produced under jieculiarly i'avorable
circumstances. While this grass will sur-
vive the winters oC tlie latitude of I'hila-
deljihia, the leafage is very sensitive to cold and turns brown with the first
frosts. This fact renders it objectionable as a lawn grass, except in regions
where the winter season is very mild. In many portions of the Southern States
there is probably no grass ecpial to IJermuda for suuuuer ])a8ture8, aud none
which will better resist tlie tiampling of stock. Herniiida doj-s not mature seed
except in the extreme southern portion of our country, but seed obtained from
more southern latitudes is olVered for sale bt some of our leading seed dealers.
The most direct and certain method of jiropagatiou is by transjilanting, which
may be effected by cutting up Benuuda turf into small pieces, scattering these
along shallow furrows and covering them lightly. A\'lien once established, Ber-
muda grass is very persistent and didicult to eradicate, and it should not be
introduced upon land which is lik(^ly to be used for other crops. New York
catalogues «iuote the seed at !^1 to $1.25 per pound, retail. In the vicinity of

Fi(i. 32.

-JJerniuda-grass (Oynodon
dactylon).

31

Washington, D. C, Bermuda-grass is known as wire grass, and in Australia it
is called Couch-grass.

No. 80. Cynosurus cristatus Linn. Crested Dog's-tail. (Fig. 33).

A slightly tufted perennial grass, 1 to 2 feet high, with fine and chiefly radical
leaves. It is a native of Europe and is adapted to cultivation in moist, tem-
perate regions, and has been siiaringly introduced into this
country. On moist, rich land it is fairly productive, hut is
rarely sown alone, excepting for seed or the formation of
lawns, for which latter purpose it is well adapted, as it
forms an even and compact sward when thickly sown. It
is said to thrive well in the shade, a fact which gives it im-
portance to those having shaded lawns. It forms a good
hottom grass, has a highly nutritive A^alue, and is recom-
mended for all mixtures used for permanent pastures, espe-
cially in hilly regions. The mature stems of this grass are
amouir the most valuable of those used in the manufacture
of Leghorn hats. Number of seeds in a pound of pure seed
is about 1,127,000. Price of seed in New York, 40 to 60 cents

per jiound, or $7 to $12 per bushel of
21 pounds.

Fig. 33.-Crestert Dog's-
tail (Cynosurus cris-
tatus.)

No. 81. Dactylis glomerata Linn.
Orchard-grass. (Fig, 34.)

This is one of the best known and most
popular of our cultivated grasses.
It will grow well on any soil con-
taining a reasonable amount of fer-
tility, excepting that which is very
wet. It is a hardy grass and may
be grown successfully anywhere in
the United States, except in the ex-
treme South and iu the arid regions
of the West. It yields an abundant
crop of excellent hay, and may be
sown alone for this purpose, but
owing to its habit of forming tufts
or tussocks, the land should be

seeded heavily or the seeds should be mixed with other
kinds, to act as fillers or bottom grasses. It is a good
pasture grass, especially for opeu woodlands, and affords
excellent grazing earlier than almost any other species.
The aftermath is uneijualed in amount by any of the
grasses ordinarily cultivated for hay. When sown with
other grasses, the tendency of Orchard-grass to form tus-
socks is much diminished and the sward greatly improved.
Heavy rolling is also recommended for checking or pre-
venting the tufted growth which this grass naturally
assumes. By this operation the tufts are pressed down
to the level of the other grasses and the turf becomes
more uniform. In old, rich meadows of Orchard-grass
it is advisable to harrow iu the spring and afterwards use
the roller. Its best record of yield, made by Sinclair, Avas 27,905 pounds green,
11,859 pounds of hay, and 11,910 pounds of green aftermath per acre. Sow 3
to 4 bushels to the acre. The average number of grains in one pound of pure
seed is 579,500. Price of seed, as given in New York catalogues, $3 per bushel
pf 14 pounds. In England Orchard-grass is known as Cock's-foot.

fio 34 . — Orchard-grass
;( Dactylis glomerata) ■

32

No. 82. Dactylocteniumaegyptium (Linn.) Willd. Crowfoot-grass. (Fig. 35.)
This grass, which is a weed throughout all the warmer countries of the world, has
become quite common in some of the Southern States. It closely resembles the
more common Goose-grass or Duck's-grass {Eleusine indica), from which it dif-
fers chiefly in having the terminal spikes shorter and each tipped with a sharp
prolongation of the axis. It is usually found in cultivated fields, and often in
such abundance as to displace the less vigorous native sorts, and ia sometimes
cut for hay. In parts of \frica, where this grass is common, a decoction is pre-
pared from the seeds, which is used for iuflaramation of the kidneys. In Aus-
tralia it is valued for pasture. In ludia the grain is sometimes used for food
by the natives in times of scarcity. The Mohave Indians of California also use

the grain for food, grinding it and mak-
ing the flour into cakes or mush. (C. E.
Orcutt.)

No. 83. Danthonia compressa Austin.
Tennessee Oat-grass.

A slender, erect, tufted perennial, usually
growing to the height of about 2 feet,
with long and narrow root-leaves, and
few-flowered spreading panicles. It is a
common grass in the hilly regions of New
England and the Middle States, and ex-
tends southward into North Carolina and
Tennessee along the mountains, where
it forms the bulk of the forage of the
so-called "balds" or parks which are com-
mon to mountains in the South. It is
highly nutritious, as determined by
chemical analysis, as well as by its effect
upon the stock grazing upon it. It stands
well the trampling and grazing of both
horses and cattle, but sheep are too close
feeders, and where these range it soon
disappears.

No. 84. De8champBiacaespitosa(L.)Beauv.
Tufted Hair- grass.

A native perennial, ranging from New Eng-
land to Pennsylvania, and westward to
the Pacific Coast. It yields an inferior,
coarse, harsh forage, and is not eaten by
stock except when young. It has a record of producing 10,1'0!) pounds green
and 3,:U8 ix.unds dry hay per acre. .Johnson, in his work on British grasses,
says of the tendency of Tufted Hair-grass to form tussOcks: "In the economy
of nature these tufts, so unsightly and disfiguring to the landscape, are valuable
by contributing to elevate and solidify low lands liable to be overllowcd by
rivers, and where they occur on hill and mountain slopes, by binding the spongy
sqil and preventing the 8lii>8 which would leave tlieni bare." This grass is most
abundant in the Rocky Mountain region, whore it doubtless serves to a consid-
erable extent the purpose here mentioned. In England it is sometimes used by
the fiirmers to make door mats. In Germany it furnishes the "Lyme-grass"
used in upholstery. Price of the seed in New York, $22 per 100 pounds.

No. 85. Deschampsiaflexuosa (L.) Trin. Wood-Hair grass. (Fig. 36.)
A slender perennial grass, 1 to 2 feet high, with numerous very fine root-leaves and
a delicate capillary panicle. It grows in tufts like Deachamptiia caapitoaa, and is

Fig

35. — Crowfoot-grass ( Dacttfloctenivm
(vgypt'nna) .

33

more common in the Eastern States than that species, but is even less valuable
for meadows. It is, however, of some value for Avoodland pastures, as it will
grow very well iu the shade. It extends southward along the mountains into
North Carolina and Tennessee. Its range westward is limited. It has a record
of producing- 12,209 pounds of rowen and 3,318 of dry hay per acre. The price of
seed quoted iu New York catalogues is $15 pur 100 pounds.

No. 86. Distichlis spicata (L.) Greene. Salt-grass. (Fig. 37.)
An upright, wiry grass, 10 to 20 inches high, with strong, extensively creeping root-
stocks. Common along the coast on both sides of the continent, and abundant
in the alkaline regions of the interior, where it is often found covering consider-
able areas to the exclusion of other grasses. It thrives even iu ground heavily
crusted with alkali and other salts sufficient to destroy almost any other kind

Fig. 36.— Wood Hair-grass (Deschampsia

Jlexuosa).

Fig. 37.— Salt-grass ( Distichlis
spicata).

of vegetable growth. Prospectors and miners consider its presence a sure sign of
water near the surface, and when crossing the desert select spots where it grows
to dig for water (Orcutt). In fanning lands it is deemed a nuisance, for its
tough, matted roots make a sod almost impossible to break up with a plow.
Although sometimes eaten by stock in the absence of better sorts, it has little
agricultural value. It is a good grass for binding loose sands or soils subject
to wash.

No. 87. Eatonia obtusata (Michx.) Gray. Early Bunch-grass.

A tufted perennial, 1 to 2 feet high, with flat leaves and rather densely flowered
nodding panicles. This is a native species, growing usually in moist soil, and
ranging from New York to California and so>uthward. A tender grass, readily
eaten by stock, which, when abundant, supplies considerable native forage of
good quality.

4393— Eo. 14 3

34

No. 88. Eleusine coracana (L.) Ga-rtn. African Millet.

An erect auniuil grass, 2 to 4 feet high, closely related to and much resembling our
common crowfoot {Eleusine indica), but of rather stouter habit and with larger
spikes and seeds. It is cultivated in India, southern China, Japan, and in many
parts of Africa for the grain, which is used as food. It forms the principal food
of many African tribes. In spite of the bitter taste of the Hour, a kind of
bread or unleavened cake is made of it. Beer is brewed from the grain in
Abyssinia. Said to yield good crops, even on very poor soil, and may be culti-
vated in the same way and for the same purposes as millet. The seeds are
marked with very tine, comb-like lines.

No. 89. Eleusine indica (Linn.) Ga^rtn. Goose-grass. (Fig. 38.)
A coarse, tufted annual, with erect or spreading stems, 6 inches to 2 feet high ; spike-
lets arranged in a number of spikes which are clustered at the top of the stem.

This grass is distributed throughout
the warmer countries of the globe,
and is particularly abundant in the
Southern States, growing in culti-
vated grounds about dwellings, etc.
It has somewhat wiry, flattened
stems, many springing from a single
root, and rather thick leaves. Some
authors have spoken of it as being
nutritious and good for grazing or
soiling and for hay, but it is more
generally regarded as a weed, and
often a troublesome one in door-
yards or lawns.

No. 90. Elymus areuarius Linn. Sea
-Lyme-grass. (Fig. 39.)

A stout, coarse grass, 2 to 8 feet high,
with strong, creeping rootstocks,
smooth stems, long, rigid leaves, and
dense terminal spikes 6 to 12 inches
long. The spikelets are about an
inch long and three- to four-llowered.
This grass is common along the sea-
coast of northern Europe, our north
Atlantic coast, and on our Western
shores from Santa Cruz, Cal., north-
ward to within the Arctic zone. It
is one of the best grasses known for
))iuding the drifting sands of the
coast, and in northern Europe has been cultivated along with Beach-grass for this
jmrpose. These two gra.sses when eoiiibiiied seeiu admirably ada])ted for the pur-
po.sc of forming a barrier to the encroachuient ol' the sea ; the sand that Beach-
grass arrests and c(dlects about itself the Lymc^-grass secures and holds fast.
The seeds are used for food by the IMgger Indians of the Northwest, and as the
grass springs up around their deseited lodges it is called by the settlors "lianche-
riii'' grass. This J>yme-grass is usually regarded as possessing little or no forage
value, but in very moist climates or under certain favorable conditions it may
yield a valuable fodder, for w hen young the grass is tender and nutritious.

No. 91. Elymus canadensis J^inn. Wild Rye.

A rather stout, smooth ])crcnuial, 3 to 5 feet higli, with broad, llat leaves, (> to 12
iuilies long. The bearded spikelets are arranged in a terminal spike or " head,"
which has some resemblance to a head of rye. Common in low thickets and

Fiii. ;i».— Goo.se-gra8.s (Eleusine indica).

35

along streams in rich, open woods thronghout tbe country. In the Northwest
it is regarded as of some agricultural value; its cultivation is evidently worthy
of trial, for if it could be successfully grown its yield of hay would be large,
and, judging from appearances, the hay would be of good quality.

No. 92. Elymus condeusatus Presl. Giant Eye-grass.

The largest of the native Rye grasses, growing to the height of
5 to 10 feet. Common in the Eocky Mountain regions and
on the Pacific slope, usually growing along rivers or streams
the banks of which are protected and held together by the
strong, spreading rootstocks of the grass. This grass is
useful for holding the sand on railway banks, etc. When
young this grass makes excellent hay, and when allowed to
stand it affords a considerable amount of fodder for stock on
the winter ranges. The seeds are used for food by the Indians.

No. 93. Elymus macoimii Vasey. Maconn's Rye-grass.

A perennial grass, found (^uite abundantly in moist meadows,
in the gravelly foothills of the northern Eocky Mountains.
The culms are leafy, and this grass contributes cxuite
largely to the nati\e hay cut by the ranchers of the North-
west. It is apparently a very valuable species.

No. 94. Elymus mollis Triu. Soft Sea Lyme-grass.

A grass which closely resembles and has
the same habit of growth as Elymtis
arenarius. It is distinguished by
having the stem soft-downy just be-
low the head or spike and in having
five to seven flowered spikelets, the
outer glumes of which are broader
and five- to seven-nerved. This grass
occurs along the shores of the Great
Lakes and northward on both the
Atlantic and Pacific coasts.

No. 95. Elymus triticoides Xutt. Wild
Wheat.

Fig. 39.— Sea
grass (Ell/ in
nariui).

Lyme-

iis are-

r>y some this has been regarded as a small, reduced form of
Ehimiiv condensatu!^, mentioned above. It grows to the
height of 2 to 3 or 4: feet and is native of the Eocky Moun-
tain region and Pacific Slope, extending eastward nearly
to the Mississippi. While it is a grass of good appear-
ance and possibly of some agricultural value, no attemjits
have been made to cultivate it.

No. 96. Elymus virginicus Linn. Terrell-grass. (Fig. 40.)

The most common of our native species of Lyme-grass,
growing along streams, the borders of woods and thick-
ets, more rarely in the open ground. It is an erect,
smooth grass, 2 to 3 feet high, with rigid terminal spikes,
which are often partly included within the upper leaf-
sheath. This grass has the appearance of possessing some
agricultural value; it forms an inferior turf, and by the
time it blooms all the lower leaves are usually dead.
When young it doubtless possesses some value as a native pasture grass. In
Kansas, South Dakota, and Nebraska it is regarded a valuable grass for wood-
land pastures.

Fig. 40. — Terrell-gi-ass
(Elymus virjiiiiciis) .

36

No. 97. Epicampes rigens Benth. Deer-grass. (Fig. 41.)

A stout, erect grass, 3 to 4 leet Ligh, with rigid, wiry stems, and a very long, narrow,
densely llowered, spike-like panicle. This grass is not uncommon in Arizona,
southern California, and New Mexico, growing in sandy soil. It is regarded as

one of the best native dry-land grasses, and is closely
grazed wherever stock tan get at it. The roots of E})!-
campes mucroura — Mexican Broom-root or Mexican
Whisk — are used in making brushes and are exported
from Vera Cruz to Europe fof this purpose.
No. 98. Eragrostis abyssinica Link. Teft'.
A brauchiug. leafy annual, 2 to 1 feet high, with widely
spreading capillary panicles of many spikelets. This
grass grows readily from seed, wiiich is produced abund
antly, and it may be of some value for hay in parts of the
Sou til or Southwest. In northeastern Africa, when; the
grass is apparently native, the grain is extensively used
for food, l)eing made into
l)read, which possesses a
slight but agreeable acid
taste. There are two va-
rieties cultivated, a white
and a red variety, the for-
mer being much superior
to the latter and used only
by the higher classes. It
is sometimes grown in gar-
dens for the elegant pani-
cles, which are used in
bou(iuets. KviKjrosUti neo-
mexicana Vasey, with the
general habit of growth of
Teft", occurs in New Mex-
ico, si)ringiug up after
rains, particularly in the region about Doming,
1^ where it is called "Crab-grass." It is an annual,
growing to the height of 2 to 4 leet, with widely
spreading, many llowered panicles, and is largely
cut for hay.
No. 99. Eragrostis major Host. Stink-grass.

(Fig. 42.)
A rather showy. uuich-l>rauchcd annual, with erect or

Fig. 41.— Beer-grass [Epi-
cainpet riyens) .

asceiuling stems, (I inches to 2 or 3 feet liigh.

Fio. 42.— Stink-grass (Eragrostix

iiiajiir).

When fresh

This .species, which is a native of Europe, has
bcconu' widely distributed in this country, grow-
ing cliietly in cultivated or waste grounds, especially in light soils.
it emits a strong, unpleasant odor.

No. 100. Eragrostis obtusiflora (Fourn.) Scribn. Mexican Salt-grass.

A rigid perennial, 12 to 18 inches high, with strong and extensively scaly rootstocks,
stiff and sharp-pointed leaves, anil nujre or less sjireadiug i)auicles. Abundant
in the highly alkaline soils ol" Suli»hur Springs Valley, Arizona, where the large
rootstocks serve to bind the shifting sands. In the absence of other grasses it
is eaten by stoiik.

No. 101. Eragrostis pilosa ( Linn.) Hoauv. Slender Meadow-grass.

A slender l.raucliing annual, (I to 18 inches high, with narrow. Hat leaves and capil-

37

lary, open panicles. This grass is widely distributed throughout the subtropi-
cal aud warmer temperate regions of both hemispheres. In this country it has
received no attention or is regarded as little more than a w eed, but in Australia
and India it is spoken of as being an excellent fodder grass, and the seeds are
eaten by the natives of Ajmere, India.

No. 102. Eragrostis purshii Schrad. Southern Spear-grass.

A native annual, similar in appearance to Eragrostis pilosa, and growing in similar
situations. It is common from the Middle States southward, and extends south-
westward into Texas and Arizona, where it exists iu a great variety of forms.
It grows to the height of 1 to 2 feet. It is nowhere considered of any agricultural
importance.

No. 103. Erianthus ravennae Boauv. Plume-grass.

A stout grass growing to the height of 8 or 10 feet, with large and plume-like pani-
cles 10 to 20 inches long, resembling in some degree Pampas-grass.' t^ultivated
for lawn decoration, as is also the variety with variegated leaves. A nat'ive of
the Mediterraueau region. ^^>,;. \ ' ' ' :- ^^^

No. 104. Erianthus saccharoides Michx. Plume-OTiifS^ HEW YC;

A tall stout grass of striking .appearance, 4 to 6 feet higl>>s.wiya arrefldLsh i)r,8irvery-
white showy panicle from .5 to 10 inches long. This graJJSscaiijjes from Xew.Jer^
sey to Illinois and southward to the Gulf, growing in very wfei.;irlac<» «mjl,t5pen
swamps. Of no agricultural value, but deserves notice as an orntsj^^fal grass
for lawns and gardens.

No. 105. Eriochloa aristata Vasey. Mexican Everlasting-grass.

A branching leafy annual, 2 to 3 feet high ; native of Mexico. Seed of this grass was
obtained by the Dei»artment in 1888. It was cultivated in the grass garden
located at Starkville, Miss., by Prof. S. M. Tracy, who says that it is a much
more promising grass than E. annulata, more hardy, less injured by drought, aud
produces a heavier growth. It will make two good crops of hay annually in the
South, the best crop being from the second growth, which is ready to cut in
October. The grass produces an abundance of seed and reseeds itself, making
its production comparatively inexpensive.

No. 106. Eriochloa punctata (Linn.) Hamilt. Everlasting-grass.

A quick-growing, smooth, succulent perennial, 2 to 3 feet high, with flat leaves and
narrow panicles 2 to 4 inches long. Widely distributed within the tropical and
subtropical regions of both hennspheres. In Australia it is regarded as an excel-
lent pasture grass, lasting all the year round and well liked by stock. The seed,
which is produced abundantly, is easily gathered. This grass deserves the
attention of Southern dairymen. In Arizona it grows throughout the valleys
iu irrigated soil, or iu the rich moist places of the plains, yielding abundant
herbage eagerly sought by all kinds of stock.

No. 107. Eriocoma cuspidata Nutt. Indian Millet. (Fig. 43.)

A grass of rather striking appearance, 1 to 2 feet high, widely distributed through-
out the Rocky Mountain region from British America southward to Texas and
New Mexico, eastward to the Missouri, and Avestward to the Sierras of California.
It grows iu dry sandy soils, forming bunches of greater or less size, and from
this habit of growth it has been called, along with a number of other grasses,
"I'.unch-grass." It thrives iu soil too dry and sandy for the growth of most
other grasses, aud is much esteemed for grazing in the regions where it abounds.
In New Mexico this grass is by some deemed superior to grama, on account of
its large and nutritious seeds or grains, which are used by the Indians to some
extent for food.

38

No. 108. Enchlaena mexicana Rchrad. Teosinte. (Fig. 44.)

A stout, leiil'y, auuiuil gra.ss, N to 10 or 12 feet high, resemljling Indian corn, to which
it is hotauicallj" closely related. The variety 7s. Jnxiiridns, of the seed cata
logues, which has been cultivated in various parts of the South and West, has a
habit of tillering, or sending uji many — 20 to 50 — stalks from the same root
(Plate III, fig. 1). From this habit the bulk of fodder produced to the acre is
very large, probably uncqualed by any other grass. It is liked by all kinds of
stock, and has especial value as a green fodder when other forage is dried up.
It may l)e cut several times during the season, but nearly as good results will be
obtained from a single cutting, made before there is any frost. The stalks are
tender, and there is no waste in the fodder when dry or green. One pound of
seed to the acre, planted in drills 3 feet apart and thiimed to a foot apart in the
drill, is recommended. It is a native of the warmer portions of ilexico and

Central America. The seed rarely matures
north of southern Florida.

No. 109. Festuca duriuscula Lam . Hard Fescue.

A slender, densely tufted, perennial grass, 1 to 2
fe(!t high, with numerous very iine radical
leaves and open panicles. This is one of the

Fm. 43. — Indian Millii (Eriocoma cutpidata).

Fig. 44.— Teosinte (Euchlcena mexicana).

foiiiis of Slieep's Fescue, mid is of little value except in pastures. Its particular
merit lies in i.ts iibility to thrive on dry sandy soils uuli( for tlie growth of bet-
ter grasses, and it Avell resists long periods of summer drotight. It is well
ada))ted to the cooler and mountainous regions of our country, being a native
of the cooler temperate regions of both hemispheres. On well-manured, clayey
l:ind this Fescue has j)ioduccd upon :i single acre 18,37<! pounds of green hay at
tiiue of (lowering, and 8,2()!) pounds of hay besides 10,029 pounds of aftermath. It
possesses some value as ;i lawn gr.-iss, bul if used for this ])uri)ose it should be
sown thickly and unmixed with other sorts. Sow 2\ to ;{ bushels to the acre.
Price of seed in New York market, $16 to $18 per 100 pounds.

No. 110. Festuca elatior Linn. Tall, or ^leadow Fescue.

Tliis grass has been widely cultiyated in this country, having been introduced from
Europe, and lias become thoroughly naturalized. Ti is an exceedingly valuable

Bui. 14, Div. of Agrostology.

Plate III.

Fig. 1.— Young Plants of Teosinte in Grass Garden of the U. S. Department of

Agriculture.

Fig. 2. — Reed Canary Grass in Grass Garden of the U. S. Department of

Agriculture.

39

grass lithcr for mowing or pasture. It is productive on soils which are not too
dry, and, heiug of long duration, is especially valuable for permanent pastures.
It thrives best on moist soils rich in humus, whether marls or clays. The variety
jjraten-sis, or Meadow Fescue, is a common form, rather smaller than the species,
with a narrower and fewer-flowered panicle. Variety arundhiacea, or Reed
Fescue (tig. 4.5), is a very vigorous, tall form, 3 to 4 feet high, exceedingly hardy,
and yields a very large amount of hay of excellent (luality, succeeding best on
lands that are comparatively moist. The seed of Meadow Fescue is quoted in
some of the New York catalogues at $3. .50 per
bushel or $22 per 100 pounds. A bushel weighs
about 14 pouuds.

No. 111. Festuca heterophylla Laui. Various-
leafed Fescue.
A rather slender European grass, 2 to 4 feet high,

with very narrow (setaceous) root-leaves, and

narrow but flat culm leaves. It is a perennial,

closely related to Creeping Fescue, of which it

has been made a variety by some authors. The

panicle is comparatively large, open and nod-
ding at the apex. It is a species pieferring a

rather mild climate, and grows naturally in open

woodlands or along their borders. It makes its

best growth on low-lying lands which are not

too dry, but npou good soil it withstands pro-
tracted periods of drought very well. Owing to

the great jiroduction of flne root leaves, this

species makes a good liottom grass, and as these

leaves are quite soft the grass is well adapted

for lawns, and is particularly recommended for

those which are too much shaded for the suc-
cessful growth of other lawn grasses. It is an

excellent grass, also, for woodland parks where

the soil is not sandy. European authorities

have classed it with the best forage plants. It

is little known in this country, but the seed is

offered for sale by our leading seedsmen, the

retail ]irice being from $2.75 to $3 per bushel of

about 14 pouuds. j-iq 45

No. 112. Festuca kingii (S.Wats.) Scribn. King's
Fescue.

A tall dio'cious bunch grass, common in the foothills and canyons of Colorado and
Montana. It is a very robust species, and supplies a large amount of good
though coarse winter forage. Growing naturally at an elevation of 7,000 to
8,000 feet, it might prove valuable in cultivation in similar localities.

No. 113. Festuca ovina Linn. Sheep's Fescue.

Sheep's Fescue exists in many varieties in the Northwestern States, especially in the
Rocky Mountain region. Some of these varieties attain the height of 2 or 3 feet,
but for the most part they are rarely more than a foot high, producing a large
amount of fine herbage, which is valuable for grazing, especially for sheep.
Some of the native varieties are well worthy the attention of the agriculturist.
All the forms of Festuca oriiia are "bunch-grasses," and are devoid of the creep-
ing roots, the presence of which distingui-shes the Red Fescue {Festuca rubra)
from this species. Sheep's Fescue is well adapted for cultivation on light, dry
soils, especially those which are shallow and silicious. Although a native of
this country, our seed supply comes mostly, if not entirely, from Europe, where

-lieed Fescue (Festuca da-
tior aiundinacea).

40

the grass is also native. Sow 2i to 3 1)nsbel8 per acre. The weight of a bushel
of seed is about 14 poniids. Price per bushel, $2.25 to $2.75 iu New York.

No. 114. Festuca rubra Linu. Red Fescue.

This grass grows aloug the Atlantic coast of the New England and Middle States,
and in the Northern States, extending westward to the Pacific. Like Feslma
oviva, it presents many forms, but in some respects is superior to that species, as
by its creeping rhizomes it will form a compact and durable
^^ turf. On account of this haldt of growth, it is a useful

grass for binding moving sands along the seacoast, or cov-
ering gravelly banks and dry slopes. In Germany, Red
Fescue is regarded as one of the most valuable grasses for
,wr dry, sandy meadows. Owing to the great production of fine

root leaves, this species makes a good bottom grass, and as
these leaves are quite soft the grass is well adapted for
lawns, and is jiarticularly recommended for those which are
too much shaded for the successful growth of other lawn
grasses. It is an excellent grass also for woodland parks
where the soil is not sandy, European authorities have
classed it with th(^ best forage plants. It is little known in
this country, but the seed is offered for sale by our leading
seedsmen, the retail price being from $2.50 to $3 per bushel
of about 14 pouiuls. A variety, F. rultra f/lancescetis Hack,
(fig. 46), is the best pasture grass in the mountain meadows
of North Carolina and East
Tennes.see.

No. 115. Festuca scabrella Torr.

r;re;it Hunch-grass. (Fig. 17.)

A strong iierenuial, growing in

large tufts or bunches 1 to 3

or 4 feet high. A native of

the Rocky Mountain regions,

extending from Colorado

northward and westward to

California and Oregon. It

often occupies extensive

mountain parks, to the ex-
clusion of other grasses, where it affords excellent
grazing. It may be cut for hay, of which it fur-
nishes a large amount, excellent in (juality, espe-
cially for horses. It is one of the best grasses for
Aviuter stock ranges. In the Norfliwesf, particu-
larly in fhe Rocky Mountain region, there are
many native species of the genus Fvsinca which
are well deserving the attention of stockmen and
farmers.

No. 116. Festuca tenuifolia Sibth. Slender Fescue.

A low and fin<!-lcafed grass, in habit of growth resem-
bling Fentuca uviiiti, of which it is reg.irded as
only a vaiiety by nu)8t authors. It has no special yxn 47
agricultural value, but will grow in dry iiud
comparatively sterile soil. Its One, h.iii-iike

leaves and densely cespitose hiibit of growth reinler it a gnod lawn gi'ass when
properly treated, especially for shady places, and it is also a good i)lant for
edgings.

Fin. 4C. — Tenne.saee
Fescue {Fegtuca ru-
bra (jlaucesceng) .

-dreat Hiiiicligra.ss (Fe.9.
tnca scabrella).

41

No. 117. Foiiniiera mexicana Scribn. Mexican Lawn-grass.

A low, extensively creeping grass that grows in tlie mountain valleys of western

Mexico. Stock cat it with avidity. An excellent lawn and pasture grass for

suhtropical regions.

No. 118. Gynerium argenteum Noes. Pampas-grass.

A stout perennial, 8 to 12 feet high, with mostly radical, narrow leaves .3 to 6 feet
long, and showy, silvexy white or rose-red panicles 1.5 to 30 inches long. A much-
prized ornamental for lawn decoration. The handsome panicles are used for
dry bouquets. Growing Pampas plumes is an important industry in some parts
of California. These plumes or
panicles are cut when exposed only
a few inches from the leaf sheath,
then dried, and don(' up into bun-
dles for shiimient. Pampas-grass
is a nativ<' of southern P.razil and
Argentina, and there the long
leaves are used for paper making,
and a decoction of the rhizome is
used as a diuretic. G, roseitm is a
horticultural variety, with pale,
rose-colored plumes. G.variegatum
is a form with variegated leaves.

No. 119. Hilaria cenchroides HBK.

Curly Mesquit. (Fig. 48.)

A delicate perennial with slender,
creeping stems, the upright, leafy
shoots a few inches to nearly a foot
high. This is one of the most val-
uable of tlie grasses of the dry
plains and mesas of the Southwest.
It foruis a dense, green sward, and
in habit of growth closely resem-
bles the true Buftalo-grass. It has
the Iiabit of creeping over the
ground and rooting at the joints
of the stems, from which sjiring
leafy branches that in turn reacli
out for other places in which to
take root. It makes a thick mat
of leafy turf during the sunmicr,
matures on its roots, and in the fall
and winter, when not rotted by
late rains, aftords excellent pastur-
age for all classes of stock. No

grass stands the long drj^ spells to which the Southwest is periodically subject
better than the Curly Mesquit. At such times it dries up and appears dead,
but in a few hours after a warju rain it becomes green to the end of the smallest
brandies. It is best proi)agaied by transplanting the runners. Seed is produced
in abundance, but is both difficult to harvest and of rather uncertain vitality.

No. 120. Hilaria mutica Benth. Black Bunch-grass.

This is a rather coarse perennial, with creeping rootstocks, and stems 12 to 18 inches
high. It is common on the dry mesas of New Mexico and Arizona, extending
eastward into Texas and Indian Teriitory. Where abundant it is regarded as
one of the most valuable native grasses and furnishes excellent pasturage at all

Fk;. 48.— Curly Mesquit (Hilaria cenchroides) ; a,
group of sjjikelets; 6,spikelet; c, d, florets.

42

times when not covered with snow, and is frequently cut for hay. It forms
dense jjatches of greater or less extent on hillsides, mesas, and plains. It is also
called "Black grama," and is largely g.ithered for hay, being uprooted with a
hoe. (Pringle.)

No. 121. Hilaria rigida (Thurb.) Scribn. Galleta. (Fig. 49.)

In the driest regions of southern California and Ari-
zona, growing in the deserts where other grasses
are rarely seen. It has coarse, much branched,
and woody stems, 2 feet high or more, growing in
great clumps, resembling in its habit some; of the
dwarf bamboos. The stems and leaf sheaths are
clothed with a dense, white-matted pubescence,
which gives to the grass a peculiarly striking
appearance. In the regions where it grows it is
regarded as valuable forage for pack animals and
mules, there being little other vegetation which
they can eat. Without this grass miners and
prospectors would lind great difliculty in travers-
ing the arid mountain and desert regions of the
Southwest, since scarcely any other forage plants
occur in the districts oc-
cupied by it (Orcntt).
The Hilarias, of which
we liave four species,
are grasses peculiarly
adapted for growth in
the drier lands of the
S o n t h \v c s t , and al-
though they are, with
the exception of Hilaria
cenchroides, wiry and
tough, the forage they
att'ord is very accept-
able in the absence of
more succulent plants.

Pin. 40.— Galleta {Tlilaria rigida).

No. 122. Holcuslanatus T.inn. Velvet-grass. (Fig. 50.)

A perennial, 1 to 2 feet high, with a creeping rootstock, and
stems and leaves clothed all over with a soft, whitish
pubescence. Tliis grass has been introduced into this
country from Europe, and has become naturalized in
many ])laces. It possesses little nutritive value, and
is not well liked by stock, particularly horses. It
pdsscsscs some value, however, on peaty or sandy soils
where the better grasses will not grow. Its cultiva-
tion, however, is not recommended. It is entirely
uusuited (or lawns.

No. 123. Holcus mollis Linu.

Fig. 50.— Velvet-grass (Hoi-

c%is lanatni).

Creeping Soft-grass.

Clcsely allied to Velvet-grass, and said to be similarly

well adapted to light, san<ly forest lands. It is occasionally found in the East-
ern States, the. seed having been introduced with that oC otlier grasses from
Europe, as both llohux moUin and IIolciin latiatiis are often used to adulterate
the seeds of more expensive grasses, especially the so-called prepared mixtures

43

of seedsmen. In Germany this grass is used on railway embankments, where
on the poor, thin soil its strong, cr('ei)ing roots form a turf which holds the
earth together, thus preventing it from being washed or blown away.

No. 124. Hordeixm jubatum Linn. Sqnirrel-tail-grass. (Fig. 51.)
A rather slender annual or biennial, usually about a foot high, growing along the
sandy seashore, borders of the Great Lakes, and in the alkaline regions of the
West. The long, slender awns of the glumes are widely spreading, and the head
or spike is thus given the appearance of the "brush" of tlie fox, hence the com-
mon name, ''foxtail." This grass is sometimes recouunended for cultivation for
ornament, and if the tops are cut«off before the awns have expanded they may
be used for dry bouquets; but the heads soon break np, and for this reason the
ffrass is of little value even for ornament. It
has no agricultural value, and, in fact, where
it has spread in the West, as it often does along
the irrigating ditches, it becomes a serious
pest. Hay containing this squirrel-grass is
considered nearly valueless. The sharp-pointed
joints of the spike, each with several long and
slender l)eards, stick fast in the nose and
mouth of hoi-ses and cattle, often penetrating
the flesh, and cases are reported where they
have caused the death of these animals.

No. 125. Hordeumniurinuni Linn. Wall Barley.

A coarse, tufted annual, 6 inches to 2 feet high, with
dense aiid somewhat (lattened, bearded spikes
2 to 4 inches long The beards or barbed awns
are 1 to lA inches long and rather rigid. This
grass IS a native of Europe, and has been intro-
duced along the Pacilic Coast, particularly in
California, where it has become a serious pest.
At maturity the head or spike readily breaks
np, and the groups of spikelets, which are sharp
pointed at the base, adhere to almost any pass-
ing object; they work up the nostrils of cattle
and into the fleece of sheep, .and may do in-
jury to the animals in much the same way as
the native Hordcum juhatum.

No. 126. Hordeum sativum . lessen. Barley.

Cultivated barley presents many varieties, pri-
marily divided into two-rowed, four-rowed,
and six-rowed races. The varieties under these

races are based upon the varied characters presented by the head, beards, or grain.
All appear to h.ave originated from Hordeum spontaneiim Koch, which grows wild
in the countries of southwestern Asia. Six-rowed barley has been in cultivation
since prehistoric times in southern Europe ; two-rowed barley is now largely cul-
tivated in England and central Europe. The four-rowed barleys are of later
origin than the others, and are most generally cultivated in northern Euroije and
in this country. The barley crop of the United States for 1895 was 87,072,744
bushels, of which amount six States produced over 73,000,000 bushels, California
leading with 19,023,678 bushels. Barley is the most important cereal of the far
north, some of the varieties being cultivated in Norway to latitude 70'-'. It is
employed in making bread also in northern Asia and Japan. Barley soup is an
article of diet in central Europe. From naked barley {Hordeum decorticatum) a

Fig. 51. — Squirrel-tail-gr.iss (Hordeum
jvbatum).

44

innciliiginons tea is prepared, used in medicine. The grain is largely fed to
horses, both in tliis tonntry .md in Europe, hut the chief nso is for brewing beer.
"Brewers grains," a by-product, both wet and dry, are fed to cattle, chiefly iu
the vicinity of breweries.

No. 127. Hydrocliloa carolinensis Beaux-. Floating-grass.

A slender aquatic grass of the Gulf States, growing along muddy banks and In
shallow streams. The stems are often 2 feet or more in ItMigth, and in sliallow
water their summits apjiear above the surface, wliile in water of greater depth

the uppermost loaves are
floating. The tender
stems and loaves are eat-
en by stock, and may af-
ford some food for water-
fowl.

No. 128. Imperata arundi-
nacea C'yrill. Blady-grass.
A sand and soil binder com-
mon throughout the
warmer temperate and
tropical regions of both
hemisi^heres. It is a
stout, erect, leafy grass,
1 to .3 foot high, with sil-
very-white spike-like
panicles. The rootstocks
form a perfect network
of strong fibers, ,ind in
warm conntries tlie grass
is recommended for bind-
ing river banks, the sides
of dams, and the loose
sands of the coast. This
grass is easily propagated
by root cuttings, and
might be utilized along
the Gulf Coast or along
the Lower Mississippi in
strengtliening the h'voes.
In tlic Malay Arcliipelago
this Imperata is the prin-
tii)al grass of the Alang
Alang iiclds, and is used
by the natives for thatch-
ing roofs. Cattle eat it when young with apparent relish, and in Bengal it
forms a very large porti()u ol" the jiasturagc. Tlic Tclingas make use of it in
their marriage cennnouifs. In western Texas and Arizona there is a native
species, Imperata hooleri (fig. .'32), very much like the one above described, iu
ap]»carain<' and liabit of growth. It grows nalinally around tlic borders of
aikaliiie S)iritigs.

No. 129. Isachue aiistralis !»'. lir. Swamp Millet.

A slender grass, creeiiing at the base, the ujiiight sti^ms 1 to 2 feet higli, witli loose,
open ])anicles of very small spikelets. It is a native of southern .\si.a and Aus-
tralia, generally found growing along the sides of streams and on swampy
ground. It is said tn be liked by rattle, and Mr. I'red Turner reeonnuends it

Fio. 52. — Tmpfrnta hookeri : a to ti. dot.iils of sitikclef .

45

for planting- on the banks of rivers or dams to protect tlicra from injury l)y heavy
rains or floods. The underground stems and roots qniclvly form a perfect mat
in the soil, and when once established they make a very firm turf. The grass
may be propagated by seeds or pieces of the root.

No. 130. Koeleria cristata (Linn.) Pers. Prairie June-grass.

This is a common grass upon the open meadows and plains of the Central and "West-
ern States, and extends beyond the Pocky Mountains to the Pacific Coast. It is
one of the " bunch-grasses " of the plains region, where it is generally associated
with the more common Bunch-grass, Foa hucldeyana. On the dry bench lauds
it is seldom over a foot high,
but in irrigated ground grows
to the height of 2 feet or more,
and makes excellent hay. Its
cultivation is not to be recom-
mended where better grasses
may be had. However, it pos-
sesses some value for furnishing
early forage, and might be used
in reseediug the native pas-
tures.

No. 131. Lamarckia aurea
Moench. Golden-top.

A low annual, 3 to 12 inches high,
with flat leaves and elegant
one-sided panicles 2 to 3 inches
long. This very attractive and
favorite ornamental grass is a
native of southern Europe and
southwestern Asia. It is fre-
quently cultivated in gardens,
and is a pleasing grass for edg-
ings. It has escaped from cul-
tivation in southern California,
and has become apparently
spontaneous there.

No. 132. Lolium italicum A. l!r.
Italian Rye-grass. (Fig. 53.)

A well-known and excellent grass
for rich and rather moist lands,
particularly for the Eastern
States. It is a very rapid grow-
er, forms a dense turf, and in
Eurojje, whence the grass w as

introduced into this country, it is regarded as one of the best hay grasses. On
stifi', heavy clays or on very dry soil it does not do well; but on good, calcare-
ous loams or marls, or on moist, loamy sands, where the soil is in good condi-
tion, it is very productive, and no other grass repays manuring so well. It is
not recommended for permanent pastures, as its duration is only two or three
years, but it is a most excellent species for tem])orary meadows. Few grasses
develop more rapidly than this, and where the soil is rich and its fertility
maintained by applications of liquid manure, cuttings may be obtained within
three or four weeks from seeding, and at intervals of a month or six weeks
successive crops may be harvested. Owing to its succulent character and rapid
growth, this makes one of the best grasses for soiling. Italian Rye-grass is at

Fi(i. 53.— Italiiiu Kyc-grass (Lolhim italicum): a, spike-
let; h, c, florets; rf, e, caryopsis.

46

once distinguished from any of the forms of perennial Rye-grass hy its awned
or bearded spikelets. Adulterations of the seed of Italian Rye-grass are rare,
owing to its relative cheapness. The average purity of commercial seed is 95 per
cent, while the germinative power is 70 per cent. The germinative power dimin-
ishes rapidly with the age of the seed. One pound of seed contains on an average
285,000 grains, and the weight jier bushel varies, according to the quality, from 16
to 24 pounds. Thiee l)U8hel8 of seed of average quality are reijuired for sowing
an acre of land. The current price in the New York market is $10 jier 100 pounds.

No. 133. LoUum pereniie Linn. Perennial Rye-grass.

Perennial Kye-grass has l)een cultivated iu England for more than 200 years, and is
therefore one of the oldest if not the very lirst grass gathered and cultivated

separately for agricultural purposes. It is indig-
enous to Europe, North Africa, and western Asia,
and was many years ago introduced into this
country from England. Here it has never been
so highly esteemed as in England, where the soil
and climate appear to be especially well adapted
to its growth. Moist and rich loams or clays are
the soils best suited to it, as with Italian Rye-
grass, it responds promptly to the application of
quick manures. For pastures on hea\y soils in
moist climates it is especially valuable, and under
such conditions is largely used iu mixtures for
permanent pastures. It is a good hay grass where
the conditions are favorable, l)ut in this country
will never be so highly esteemed as Timothy.
There are several Aarieties of jierennial Rye-grass
recognized by agriculturists. Pacey's Perennial,
a vigoious form, is one of these. The average pu-
rity of ])erennial Kye-grass seed is given at 95 per
cent, and the germinative power at 75 per cent.
Good commercial seed should grade higher tiiau
this. One pound of pure seed contains on an aver-
age 33(5,800 grains. Of course, where the seeds are
larger and heavier, this number would be consid-
erably less. The best seed weighs from 25 to 35
pounds per bushel, and 2 to 3 bushels of seed are
re(|uired per acre. The current retail price of
good seed is tS i)er 100 pounds.

No. 134. Lolium temulentuni Linn. L>arnel.

An annual grass, 2 to 3 feet higii, having a general re-
semblance to Italian Rye-grass, but usually stouter, more strictly erect, with
longer glumes and larger seeds. It has been introduced into tills country with
the seeds of other grasses, and is occasionally met with in grain lields and
about dwellings. The grain contains a narcotic or jiolsonous principle, whi<h
causes eruptions, trembling, and vertigo In man and llesh-eatiug animals. If
the seeds are malted with barley, the ale causes intoxication very suddenly. It
is contemled by some that perfectly healthy Darnel .seeds are innocuous — that
only grains which are crgotized or otherwise diseased arc injurious.

No. 135. Mauisuris. Rat-tail-grass.

The native species oiWaniauria are branching, leafy perennials, with slender, cylin-
drical, many-jointed H])lkes, which readily bn'ak up. They are I'oninl cliiclly in
tiie pine-barren swamps of the (Julf States. They are of little agricultural value
iu this country. Manisuris conqireasa, a native of southern Asia, south Africa,

Fig. 54. — I'erennial Rye-grans
( Lidlmti jxrennc).

47

and Australia, ^'here it is called Mat-grass, has creeping or ascending flattened
stems, rather short leaves, and slend<'r spikes. In some parts of Australia it is
hi<Thly esteemed for pasturage, and is said to retain its greenness tbronghout
the year in drj^ climates. It is not injured by light frosts. The prostrate stems
sometimes attain a length of 5 or (i feet. A closely related
species, M. fascicuJata, occurs on tlie lower Rio Grande.

No. 136. Melinis minutiflora Beanv. Molasses-grass.

A sweet and highly nutritious species, and the most esteemed
of the grasses of central Brazil, where it is native, grow-
ing upon the hills and dry lands. It is regaided a most
excellent grass for dairy cows, and deserves a trial in the
Southern and Southwestern States and California. The
Brazilian names for this grass are "Cainm mellado" and
"Cajrim gordura." The English name given above is a
translation of these. This species occurs also in Ascension
Island, Natal, and Madagascar.

No. 137. Muhleubergia diffusa Schreb. Nimble Will.

(Fig. 550
A low, slender, diffusely branched grass groAviug on dry hills,

in woods, and especially in shady,

waste grounds about dwellings.

The leafy, Aviry stems, which are

from 6 to 18 inches long, s])ring

from extensively creeping and

rather tough rhizomes, which make

a turf very difficult to break up.

When young, this grass is readily

eaten l)y all kinds of stock, but

after it matures it is so tough that

few animals will touch it. It pos-
sesses really very little agricultural

value, and some look upon it rather

as a weed. It is a native from

southern New England to lowa^
Michigan, and southward, blooming in the latter part of
summer.

No. 138. Muhleubergia distichophylla Kth. Bearded

Saccaton.
This is a strong, tirmly rooted grass, 3 to 4 feet high, with

rather lonu' and rieid kavos, and a narrow panicle often

exceeding a foot in length. It is frecjuent in the ricli

valleys in Arizona and New Mexico, and on rich bottom

lands it is often cut for hay. It is a coarse grass, like

SjJoroboliis icrighiii, and by the settlers is classed with

it imder the general name of Saccaton. In Arizona it

forms the more common " hay" that one finds in the towns

and way stations, being pulled by the Mexicans or Indi-
ans and brought in on the backs of donkeys or on carts.

There are many species of Multlenbergia in the south

western part of the United States and northern Mexico.

and doubtless many of them are of considerable agricultural value. Muhlenhergia

rirescens is a soft and leafy species growing in clumps on the higher slopes of the

mountains in Arizona, and with Foa fendleriana forms the chief herbage of the

so-called ''deer parks" of the mountains. (Pringle.)

Fm. 55.— Niiiil)le wm
(Muhlenhergia dif-
fusa).

Fig. 56. — Knot root irntsa
(Muhlenhergia mexi-
cana).

48

No. 139. Muhlenbergia mexicana (Linn.) Trin. Knot-root grass. (Fig. 56.)

A much-branched, leafy perennial, 2 to 3 feet bigli, with strong, scaly, creeping root-
stocks, whirli often do good service in binding river banks, along which this
grass freiiuently grows. In the Northeastern States this grass is common in low
meadows, where it occasionally forms a considerable proportion of the native
hay of such placi's. If cut before the stems liave become woody, which they do
after dowering, the liay produced is of good (juality. It ranges from New Eng-
land southward to the Gulf and westward to the Kooky Mountains. In the
Eastern States It blooms in August.

No. 140. Muhlenbergia porteri Scribn. Wire grama.

This grass is a native of Xew Mexico and Arizona, growing
on the dry mesas and table-lands. It has a straggling
habit of growth. The stems are 1 to 2 feet long, much
branched, and often matted together. It furnishes ex-
cellent feed for cattle in tlie regions where it grows,
and yields good hay, which is har\ ested in considerable
abundance by the ranchmen. It withstands drought
very well, but is soon run out under the continued
trampling of cattle.

No. 141. Muhlenbergia pungens Thuib. Blow-out grass.

A rather rigid perennial, 12 to l!^ inches high, with linn
shar|[)-pointed leaves and open panicles. It has strong,
creeping roots, and often does good service as a sand
binder. In tlie sand-hills region of Nebraska it grows
abundantly around the borders of the so-called "blow-
outs,"' preventing their extension and assisting mate-
rially in restoring the turf. In some parts of Arizona
where it occurs it is esteemed a valual)l<; forage plant.
It grows from Nebraska southward to New Jlexico and
Arizona, and along the Colorado River above Fort Yuma.

No. 142. Muhlenbergia racemosa (Michx.) B. S. P. Wild

Timothy. (Fig. 57.)
An upright, usually sparingly l)ranched perennial, 2 to 3
feet high, with densely ilowered, narrow panicles 2 to
1 inches long, often resembling those of timothy. The
rootstocks are very tough, and closely covered with
thickened scales. It fre(iuents bogs and low grounds
from Now England westward to the Rocky Mountains,
extending southward to Tennessee, New Mexico, and
Texas. It is little prized in the East, but in the Northwestern States is recom-
mendt^d as an excellent grass for hay.

No. 143. Opizia stolonifera I'resl. Mexican Lawn-grass.

An extensively creeping, dio-cious grass, the very slender, ])r()strate stems sending
ui> leafy tutts 1 to 4 inches high. Similar in habit to Bermuda, but more deli-
cate. According to Dr. E. Palmer, this is one of the most important grasses of
M(!xico. Growing close tn tin' ground, it forms a tlii<k sod ovei- all exposed sur-
facis, even over the cobblestones in the streets of towns. It is used in the public
8i[uarc8 with good effect. By regular watering it is easily kejtt green, and but
little cutting is neeessarj'. The seed isilillicult to obtain, owing to th(^ constant
nibbling of domestic animals. I'ropagatiou by cuttings of the rooting, i)ros-
trate stems is ](roba])ly the best method. Trials with this grass ought to be
undertaken in the Southern States, both for lawns and pastures.

Fi(i. 57. — Wild Timothy
( Miililenberjia raceinosa.)

49

No. 144. Oplismenus setarius R. & S. Creeping Beard-grass.

A slender perennial of the Gulf States, with decumbent or creeping stems, and short
and rather broad leaves. It possesses no recognized agricultural value, but as it
grows naturally under the dense shade of trees it might be used for covering the
ground in shady places where other grasses will not thrive. It can be propagated
by pieces of the stem, which root at the joints, and if eared for, will in a short
time make a good turf. A closely allied grass of similar habit of growth, with
variegated leaves, is often grown in greenhouses for its ornamental appearance.

No. 145. Oryza sativa Linn. Rice.

A tropical or subtropical, semiaquatic grass, the grain of which is the staple food of
one-third of the human race. It is most extensively cultivated in southern Asia,
China, and Japan. The annual produce of these countries is estimated at
100,000,000 tons. The rice-growing districts of China support the densest popu-
lation in the world. In .this country rice is cultivated in the States of South
Carolina, Georgia, Louisiana, and Texas. The estimate of the crop of cleaned
rice produced in Louisiana in 1895 was 82,436,832 pounds. " Paddy" is the grain
in the husk. There are many varieties of rice, distinguished by color or size of
the grain, absence or presence of beards, etc. There are two classes known as
"lowland rice" and "upland rice." The latter is cultivated to some extent in
western Tennessee. Rice straw is used for making paper.

No. 146. Oryzopsis asperifolia Michx. Mountain Rice.

A perennial, 6 to 18 inches high, with very long basal leaves overtopping the stems.
Thisgrowsinrich, open woods, upon hillsides, fromNew England to Minnesota and
northward. It is one of the early blooming species, llowering in May and ripen-
ing its seed in June and July. The leaves remain green throughout the winter.

No. 147. Oryzopsis melaiiocarpa Muhl. Black-fruited Mountain Rice.

A rather stout, long- and broad-leafed grass, 2 to 3 feet high, with a simple panicle
of a few rather large spikelets. Grows in rich, rocky woods from New England
southward to Pennsylvania and westward to the Rocky Mountains, blooming in
July and August. These species of Oryzopsis have no recognized agricultural
value, but they are very hardy perennials and might be propagated .o advantage
in woodland parks.

No. 148. Oryzopsis micrautha Thurb. Small Indian Millet.

A perennial, quite widely distributed throughout the central and western counties
of the Dakotas and in eastern Montana. It grows in dry, sandy soil, and though
tough and wiry, is nutritious and is considered a valuable grass.

No. 149. Oryzopsis miliacea (Linn.) Hack. Many-flowered Millet-grass.

A perennial, 2 to 3 or 4 feet high, with a many- and small-flowered nodding panicle,
6 to 12 inches long. It is a native of central and southern Europe, growing in
dry, open woods and thickets. Was introduced into California in 1879, and has
been cultivated experimentally with varying success at a number of jjoiuts in
that State. On the granitic soil of San Diego, California, it has grown 3 feet high
without irrigation, and remained green throughout the year. Horses and cattle
are said to eat it greedily. In Europe it is not regarded as possessing much, if
any, agricultural value.

No. 150. Panicularia americana (Torr.) MacM. Reed Meadow-grass.

A stout, erect, leafy perennial, 3 to 4 feet high, with long, rather broad leaves, and a
large, nodding panicle. It is common in the northern Middle States and south-
ward along the mountains to Tennessee and North Carolina, extending westward
to the Rocky Mountain region. It grows along streams and in moist meadows,
and in such places often forms a considerable jjortion of the native hay. It is
liked by cattle and is a good pasture grass for wet lands.
4303— No. U 4

50

No. 151. Panicularia canadensis (iMicbx.)Kuiitze. Rattlesnake-grass. (Fig. 58.)
A grabs .similar in lia1>it to the last aud growing in similar .silnatioDS in the Northern
States, exteudiug southward to Peuusylvauia and westward to Kansas. It is
less common than P. americana. It has received no attention from the agricul-
turist. The nodding panicles of rather large spikelets are sometimes gathered
for dry houquets.
No. 152. Panicularia fliiitans (Linn.) Kuntze. Floating Manna-grass. (Fig. 59.)
This gras.s grows to the iieiglit of from '.^ to 5 feet, and has a nariow panicle composed
of rather few long aud narrow or cylindrical spikelets. It is a cosmopolitan
species, found in all temperate regions of the world, and is regarded as one of
the best fodder grasses for swampy meadows. In some ])arts of Europe the
seeds are 'fathered ami used for human I'ood in the form of sou])S and gruels.

Via. .')8.— Rattlesnake-grass (PainmUiiiii nnia
cicns-is).

Fiii. .'59.— Floal ill}; Manna grass { I'nnicularia

llllitUlii).

No. 153. Panicularia nervata (Willd.) Kiint/.e. Fowl Meadow-grass. (Fig. 60.)
A leafy jiereunial, 1 to 3 feet liigh, with cxi»anded nodding jianicles of small spike-
lets. This is a com n species in low meadows aud moist grounds, extending

from New ICngland southward to the (iiilf States and westward to the I'acilic
coast. It is a good fodder plant for moist meadows, \aries greatly in size,
aicording to soil and location. I'aniciihiria amerUana and I'aniritlaria neriata
furnish food for water fowl during the fall migrations and are valuable in ganic
)>reser\es along with Zizania aiiuatica.
No. 154. Panicum agrostoides Mnhl. Mnnro-grass. (Fig. til.)
A native jjcrennial, with hrauching, leafy stems, 2 to 4 feet high, and a panicle
n-sembling that of Ke<ltoi). It grows in low meadows and along the banks of
creeks, shores of jionds, etc.. and often yields a large amount of very good native

51

hay. In low, moist, uinl ratlier rich iiieadows its ciiltivatiou wonkl douhtless
he protitahle, ami it is certaiuly deserving of a trial la such locations.

No. 155. Panicum amarum E^ll. Bitter Panic-grass. (Fig. 62.)
A grass of the sandy seacoasts, ranging from Connecticut southward to Florida ajid
along the (inlf. It has coarse, hard stems, 1 to 5 feet high, and strong, creeping
rootstocks, making it an excellent sand hinder. The islands oif the coast of
Mississippi are almost wludly made up of drift sands, the outer sides hciug
dunes from 10 to 30 feet high, Avhile the middle of the islands is usually low and
occupied by swamps or lakes. This bitter panic is very abundant upon the out-
side of these dunes, where it is exposed to the winds and Avaves, and where
it serves to etfectually hind the otherwise shifting sands. The leaves and stems
have a Inttcr taste, hence the common name.

Fig. 60. — Fowl Me:idi)\v-gra88
(Panicularia nervata) .

Fig. 61 Miinro-gras.s

(I'anicxim a(jro»toi-
des) .

Fm. 62. — Bitter Panic-grass (y'(/>i
icum ainarum) .

No. 156. Panicum capillare Liuu. Okl Witch-grass.

An annual, with usually coarse, branching stems, 1 to 3 feet long, hairy leaf sheaths,
and widely spreading panicles. Grows in cultivated grounds, wh(^re it often
becomes a somewhat troublesome weed. Being an annual, however, it is easily
eradicated. Possesses no value for fodder excepting for fall feed on stubble.

No. 157. Paiiicuin ciliatissimum Buckl. Iiidhm Wheat.

A more or less extensively creeping perennial, Avith short leaA^es and upright dowering
stems, 6 to 18 inches high. The panicles are narrow and few flowered, and in
the prostrate forms usually ^lartly included Avithin the leaf sheaths. This grass
is a native of Avestern Texas, and doubtless possesses sonu; agricultural value for
the drier regions of the Southwest. The creei>ing stems resemble someAvhat
those of Bermuda-grass, but the leaves are usually more crowded and broader
in proportion to their length.

52

No. 158. Paniciim colonum Linu. Shama Millet.

A native of the tropical and warmer temperate regions of the Old World. In
northern India it is considered one of the best fodder grasses. Introduced into
the Southern and Southwestern States, where it is occasionallj^ found in waste
grounds about dwellings. It is closely related to Panicum critH-galli, differing
from that grass iu its smaller size and more simple iuHorescence. The stems
and leaves are tender and readily eaten by stock. In India the grain, which
is produced abundantly, is sold in the markets and used for food.

No. 159. Pauicum crus-galli Linu. Barnyard-grass. (Fig. 63.)
This well-known annual of rank growth is common in rich, cultivated ground, espe-
cially around dwellings. There are stsveral forms presented by this species.

That growing as a weed around barn-
yards and dwellings, in cnlti Abated
grounds in the Atlantic States, was
probably introduced from Europe.
There are, however, several native varie-
ties, or possibly good species. One of
these occurring in the brackish marshes
or meadows along tiie seaco.ist, grows to
tile height of 3 to 5 feet, with the lower
leaf sheaths verj' hirsute, and the spike-
lets loug-awned. A tall, smooth form
occurs in New Mexico, Arizona, and the
Mohave desert region, springing up after
the summer rains in all swampy places
or lowlands. It grows to the height of t>
or 7 feet, and its seeds, which it produces
abundantly, are collected by the Mohave
Indians, ground into Hour, and cooked
for food. The poorer classes of India
also use the grain for food. A variety
introduced from .Japan has been culti-
vated at some of tlie ex})eriment stations
and treated as a millet. At the Hatch
Experiment Station, iu Massachusetts,
the crop produced was very uniform,
averaging 7 feet in height. The yield
was at the rate of 11,207 i)oun<i8 of straw
per acie and 6(i.7 bushels of seed. When
sown ibr silage or for soiling at the rate
of on(! peck of seed to the acre, the yield
was at the rate of front 15 to 18 tons ])er acre. A Held sown July 26, alter a crop
•^ of hay was removed, yielded 12 tons ])er acre. It is very much liked by stock,
and is a valuable forage plant for feeding green or (or tlie silo. It is n«)t so well
adapted lor hay, as it is a coarse, succulent grass, and rather dillicult to dry.

No. 160. Pauicum digitarioides Carpenter. Maiden Cane.

A rathei- coarse gra.ss, 2 to 1 feet high, growing along ditches, in swaini)s, and in
moist sands from Delaware soiitliward to Florida and along the (inlf near the
coast. It has strong and widely spreading or cree])ing rootstocks, which are
useful in binding sandy railroad embankments in the Southern and Gulf States.

No. 161. Panicum fa.sciculatum S\v. lirown-top.

A rather coarse and much-l)ranched leafy aumuil, growing iu clumps to the height
of 2 to 3 feet. The leaves are Hat, one-fourth to one-half an inch wide, and 2 to
6 inches long. It is a native of Texas and Florida. Similar m character and
closely allied botanically to I'ai^cum texanum.

Flo. 63. — Barnyard- (frn-ss (Panicum cruii-<jalli).

53

No. 162. Panicum lachnanthum Torr. Arizona Cotton-grass.

This ia a native of the dry regions of Arizona and New Mexico. It resembles Pani-
cum Janatinn, but has more slender stems, which rise from strong, woolly, and
knotted rootstotks. This may prove to be a valuable pasture grass for the dry
or semiarid regions of the Southwest.

No. 163. Panicum lanatum Rottb. Cotton-grass.

A variable species widely distributed throughout the tropical regions of both hemi-
spheres. It is a perennial with slender or stout stems 1 to 3 feet high, usually
with flat leaves and narrow panicles, the spikelets being densely clothed with
long .silky or cottony hairs, which are white, or sometimes brownish or purplish.
When abundant this grass yields excellent pasturage. It has been found in
southern Florida and at other points near
the Gulf coast. Tliere is a variety of this
species growing in the dry regions of Ari-
zona and New Mexico which has more slen-
der stems, that spring from strong woolly
and knotted rhizomes. Doubtless this form
would be a valuable pasture grass for the
dry or semiarid regions where it is native.

No. 164. Panicum maximum Jacq. Guinea-
grass. (Fig, 64.)

This grass was long ago introduced into Amer-
ica, presumably from tropical Africa, and
has for many years been cultivated in trop-
ical South America and the West Indies.
In these regions it is spoken of as being a
splendid pasture grass, growing to the
height of 12 feet, forming dense tufts. It
is readily proi)agated by cuttings of the
creeping rootstocks. It has been intro-
duced into some of the Gulf States, par-
ticularly Florida, where it is highly valued.
Few grasses yield a larger amount of fod-
der, and it may be cut as often as once a
month during the growing season. If
allowed to attain its full size it becomes
coarse and unfit for forage. Its stems are
killed by the first frosts of autumn. It
seeds only in the warmest parts of the
States bordering the Gulf. It is much less

hardy than .lohnson-grass, with which it has been confounded by some, and has
quite a distinct habit of growth.

No. 165. Panicum miliaceum Linn. Broom-corn Millet.

A rather coarse annual, attaining a height of 2 to 4 feet, with large, drooping,
loosely flowered panicles. There are several varieties, distingiiislied l)y the
color of the fruit or character of the panicle. This is the true millet which has
been cultivated in the East from prehistoric times, so that now its native coun-
try is not known. It is .still cultivated to a considerable extent in China and
Japan, also in South Russia and Rouuumia, and to a limited extent in other
parts of Europe and North Africa. It requires a rich soil, and under favorable
conditions its growth is very rapid and its production of seed large, in some
instances amounting to 60 or 70 bushels to the acre. The grain is nutritious,
and is one of the best for feeding poultry. When ground, the flour makes a

Fig.

64. — Galnea-grass (Panicum maxi-
mum) .

54

rich and nutritions porridge, for which purpose it is chielly used in tho eastern
• •ountries where the grass is grown. In northern India, where the grain is
hirgelv nsed, a prei)aratioii of it constitutes a favorite food at iiiarriage cere-
monies. Owing to its rapid iiiid sonn-what succulent growth, it is an excellent
soiling plant. It has, however, been little cultivated in this country, hut is occa-
sionally found in the older settlements in cultivated fields and waste grounds
about dwellings. The number of grasses termed millets in various ]>arts of the
world is large, and includes many very different species, whose grain, however,
is used for human food. Most of the so-called millets belong to the genera
Chatochloa, ratiicum, and Paspahim. They form the princij»al food grains of the
natives of many parts of Africa and Asia. It has been estimated that the
millets feed one-third of the human race.

No. 166. Pauicum molle 8w. I'ara-grass.

A rather coarse, reed-like perennial, 4 to 6 feet high, with hairy nodes, and narrow,
lax i»auicles. fi to 8 inches long. It is cultivated in ."^outli America, and in the
West Indies and Mexico, and has been introduced into some of the Gulf States.
It is grown with success on the high pine ridges of Florida, and wherever culti-
vated it is most highly esteemed and regarded as a very fattening pasture gra.ss.
How far to the north this grass may be grown successfully does not appear to
have been determined, but it is hardy at the Cai)e of Good Hope and other far
extra troi)ical regions (Barou von Mueller). It is ]>ropagated either by seeds or
root cuttings.

No. 167. Panicuni obtusum II. r>. K. Vine Mesqnit.

A stiilonifcroMS grass, the runners attaining a length of 8 to 10 feet, the upright
llowering culms 12 to 24 inches high. This grass ranges from Colorado to Texas,
New Mexico, Arizona, and southward into Mexico. It is usually found in irri-
gated lands or in the low, damp soil of the valleys, most frequently under the
shade of trees and shrubs. No attempts have l>een made to cultivate this grass,
but its appearance and habit of growth indicate an agricultural value of suffi-
cient importance to call for experiments in its cultivation. In New Mexico this
species is calhd "Wire-grass.'"

No. 168. Panicum plicatiim Lam. Palm-leafed Grass.

A broad-leafed perennial, 3 to 4 feet high or more, native of India. The leaves are
elegantly striate and nsualiy ]dicate, giving to the grass an unusual and at the
sanu^ time attractive appearance. It is a favorite ornamental for greeidiouse
culture.

No. 169. Pauicum proliferum T>am. Sprouting Crab-grass.

A smooth and usually unn h-branched native annual, with rather coarse, spreading or
ascending stems 2 to (5 feet long, flat leaves, and diffuse terminal and lateral
panicles. It grows naturally in moist, rich soil along the banks of streams and
rivers, around the shores of ]»onds jind lakes, and in the South is often abundant
in rich, cultivated tields, growing with Crab-grass. The stout, succulent stems
.•lie sweetisli and much liked by h<>r>es and cattle. Its r.inge is from Maine to
-Nebraska, and southward to the (Julf, blossuming in tin* latter part of summer or
early autumn. The spontaneous growth of this grass in cultivated tields after
the reniov.d of crops is of some value for hay or pasturage, but its cultivation can
not l»e recommended in view of the fact that we ha^e many .inuual grasses much
sui)erior to it. In the Northern and Middle States it is da.ssed with the weeds.

No. 170. Panicum repens Linn. Creeping Panic.

An oxten.sively creeping grass, with rather stilV upright stems, 1 to 2 feet high or
less. It is common in the maritime districts in southern Asia, northern Africa,

55

sonthcrn Euroi)o, and Australia. It is also found along tbo shores of tlic South-
ern States bordering tlw Oiilf, extending westward to Mexieo. It has no iigri-
cultnral value, but is a natural sand binder. Upon the sandy islands lying off
the Gulf Coast it grows abundantly nyjon the outside of dunes, protecting them
from the action of the winds and waves.

No. 171. Panicum sanguinale Linn. Crab-grass.

(Fig. 65.)
A well-known annual, coninion in nearly all parts of the
United States, growing in cultivated fields and
about dwellings. It is a weed in gardens and among
hoed crops. In grain lields after harvest it fre-
quently springs up in such quantity, particularly
in the Southern States, as to yield one or even two
good cuttings of hay. This spontaneous growth
affords excellent pasturage, as well as hay of first
quality if properly cured. The stems are much
branched, and in good soil attain a length of .3 to 4
feet. This grass contains little fiber, and dries
([uickly when cut, but if iifter cutting it is wet liy
rains or heavy dews its value for hay is almost
wholly destroyed. In Bohemia, Crab-grass is

cultivated upon

sandy soils and the

grain is used for

food in the form of

nnish or poiridge.

No. 172. Panicum sero-
tinum (Michx.) Trin

A species related to Vrah-grai^^ (ranicum sangiiitialr),
common in the Southern States near the (inlf, dis-
puting with Louisiana-grass the claim of being
the most valuable native pasture grass of that
section. It is ])robably a bienniaL It is much
like Crab-grass, sending out leafy, creeping shoots
at every joint, but is snuiller in every way, with
shorter and more hairy leaves of a lighter green
color. It is invaluabh^ for pasturage, forn\ing a
close turf, and driving out nearly all other i)lants.
It grows best in sandy soil where there is a little
moisture.

No. 173. Panicum spectabile Nees. Angola-grass.

A stout grass, 3 to 5 feet high, with rather broad and

long (I to 2 feet) leaves, an<l a terminal, densely

Howercd, compound and narrow spike H to 10

inches long. Imported into South America many

years ago from the west coast of Africa (the region

of Angola). It is cultivated oii the low laiuls in

the eastern part of I'.razil, particularly in the

region of Rio de .Faneiro, where it is called

"Capim d'Angola." This Panicum is closely related to and resembles some

forms of I'.arnyard-grass (/'. crus-yalli). It. is sp.oken of as an extremely

productive and nutritious fodder-grass, and may prove valuable for the low

regions along the Gulf coast.

Fig. G5. — Crab-grass (Panicum
xangiiinale).

Little Crab-grass. (Fig. 66.)

Flo. 66. — Creeping Crab-grass
{Panicum serotinum).

56

No. 174. Panicum sulcatum Anbl. Palm-Leafed-grass.

A South American perennial, 4 to 6 feet higli, with palm-like leaves 1 to 2 inches
broad and 16 to 20 inches long, and long, terminal, narrow panicles which taper
above and below. The leaves of this grass are deeply sulcata or plicate, like
those of the Indian P. ji^icaium. Sometimes cultivated for ornament in green-
houses or upon lawns.

No. 175. Panicum texanum Buckl. Colorado-grass. (Fig. 67.)

A branching, leafy annual, 2 to 4 feet high, with a narrow panicle 6 to 8 inches long

terminating the main stem and branches. It is nutritious, of rapid growth, and

upon good soil yields a large amount of excellent hay, and may be cut twice or

even three times during the season. It reseeds itself readily. It prefers rich,

Fid. 67.— Colorado- jrrass (Panicum
texanum).

Fig. 68. — Switchgra.is (Panicuin
virgattnn).

alluvial soil along river bottoms, etc., and upon such laud withstands drought
well. In certain parts of Texas, particulii rly in the counties along the Colorado
River, in the central part of the State, where it appears to be native and where
it often conies up in cultivated fields after the removal of corn or other grain
crops, it is spoken of in the highest terms as a hay-producing grass.

No. 176. Panicum virgatum Linn. Switch-grass. (Fig. (!«.)

A tall, native perennial, 3 to 5 feet high, with strong, creeping rootstocks, long, flat
leaves, and ample, spreading jianicles. When young this atlords good grazing,
but at maturity the stems become hard and praetieally worthless for fodder. It
ranges from Maine southward to the Gulf and westward to the Rocky Mountains.
It is particularly common near the coa.st in sandy soil bordering the niar.shes,
and oftentimes plays an important part there, in preventing the drifting of sands

57

by tbe winds or the washing of soils by overflows aud high tides. On good
lands it is very productive, and if cut before tbe stems have become hard yields
a large amount of bay of very good quality.

No. 177. Pappophorum laguroideum Scbrad.

A handsome ornamental, 3 to 5 feet high, with narrow, plume-like panicles a foot or
more long. It is a native of Mexico, and lias been successfully grown from seed
on the grounds of tbe Department of Agriculture. It is wortby of introduction
as an ornamental for gardens and lawns because of the beauty of its pale straw-
colored panicles.

No. 178. Pappophorum wrightii S. Wats. Purple-grass.

A slender and apiiarently annual grass of western Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona,
growing on tbe open plains and
among the footbills of the moun-
tains. It has short, narrow leaves
and narrow, densely flowered
heads or panicles, which are
softly bearded and grayish or
pnrjdish. It is said to be fully
e(]ual to Grama or Buffalo-grass
in nutritive value, and more pala-
table to horses or mules.

No. 179. Paspalum boscianum
Fliigge. Purple I'aspalnm.

A rather stout perennial with ascend-
ing branching stems, 2 to 3 feet
high, long, flat leaves, and numer-
ous racemes crowded near the
summit of the culm and its
branches. It is a native of the
Southern States, growing in moist
grounds, preferring rather heavy
soils. Like other species of Pas-
palum, it grows in tufts and
often occurs covering consider-
able areas to the exclusion of
other grasses. It yiel<l8 a good
bulk of sweet hay, but is rather
slow in drying.

No. 180. Paspalum compressum

(Sw.) Nees.

A slender, erect, or more frequency
prostrate and extensively creep-
ing perennial, rooting at the
nodes, and sending up numerous
leafy, flower-bearing branches,
6 to 24 inches high. The very
slender racemes or spikes borne at or near the summit of the stems are 1 to 3
inches long. The [u-ostrate creeping stems spread rapidly, and soon form a dense,
(jarpet-like growth, crowding out all other vegetation. It withstands protracted
drought, grows well on almost any soil, and in the more southern districts is
evergreen, yielding good pasturage both summer and winter. It is regarded as
one of the most valnal)le native pasture grasses of the regions bordering the Gulf,
and is a most excellent lawn grass, superior to Bermuda and less diliScult to
eradicate. It is found in the warmer regions of both North and South America.
It is readily propagated by sets and seeds.

Fig. 69. — Carpet-irrass (raspahnn comjircssinn): a.
attachment of spike-lets to rachis ; b and c, spikelets:
d, floret.

58

No. 181. Paspaliim dilatatiim Poir. Large Water-grass.

A ratbiT ooarsti h-afy perennial, growing iu clumps 2 to 5 feet bigh, bearing near
the suuunit of tbc stems two to teu, more or b-ss spreading racemes or spikes of

crowded, hairy spikelets. It is a native of Brazil and
possibly was originally introduced into the Southern
States (where it has become ([uite widely distributed)
from that country, although it may be a native here.
It ranges noitbward froni the (iulf to southern Virgitiia
and Tinnessee, and westward to Texas, growing most
abundantly on low, black soils, which are well supplied
with moisture. It is considered an excellent pasture
grass, and when well established endures seasons of ex-
cessive drought without injury. It is particularly val-
uable as furuisliing excellent late summer and autumn
feed, during which period it makes its principal growth.

No. 182. Paspalum distichum Linn. Knot-grass. (Fig. 70.)

A low cr('ei)ing species, resembling Bermuda-grass. It is
conuiuin in the Scmthern States along the seacoast and
in the interior, extending southward from Virginia to the
Gulf, and westward to Texas, Arizona, southern Cali-
fornia, and northward to Oregon. It occurs Ihrougbout
the tropical regions of both the Old and New Worlds. It
grows in more or less
sandy soils around th(^
margins of ponds and
along river banks. In
such places it often
does good service iu
binding soils subject
to wash. The grass
can well be recom-
mended for this use.

Its stems are somewhat succulent, extensively

creeping, rooting at the nodes. The leaves

are tender, affording excellent grazing. The

upright stems arc a few inches to a foot high,

and b»!;ir at their summits two slender spikes.

This character at once serves to distinguish

it from l?ermud:i, which luis several si)ikcs:it

tlie ap(!X of the llowering culms.

No. 183. Paspalum laeve Mi(dix. Smooth i'ati-

palum. (I"ig. 71.)
A tufted native perennial, with ascending or

<'rect stems, 1 to :i feet long. Hat leaves, and

two to live, more or Ic.ss spreading spikes, 2

to 4 inches long. Common in the Middle and

Southern States, growing in open fields,

m.adows, etc., usually where the ground is

somewhat moist. It is a late summer grass,

blossoming from July to October. Well liked

by all kinds of stock. In culf ivated grounds,

jind i)articularly on lawns, which it occasionally invad.s, it must be classed as

a weed.

Fig. 70.— Knot-grass {Pas-
palum distichutn).

Fio.71.— Siiiootli I'asiialiiin (liaspalum

l(VVl').

59

No. 184. Paspaliim scrobiculatum Linn. Ditch Millet.

A smooth annnal, with branching, erect or ascending stems, 2 feet high or more.
Widely distributed throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of both
hemispheres. In northern India this grass is cultivated throughout the plains-
region as a "rainy-season crop." It is usually sown on the poorer kinds of soil,
the grain being chiefly consumed by the lower classes. The straw is used for
fodder. (Duthie.) A variety of P. scrobirulaUim, called "hureek" in India,
which is perhaps the Ghohana-grass, an Indian species reputed poisonous, is said
to render the milk of cows that graze upon it narcotic and drastic. (Lindley.)

No. 185. Pennisetum japonicum Trin.

Erect, with flattened simple stems, 1 to 2 feet high, very n jirrow leaves, and compara-
tively loosely flowered purplish or yellowish nodding panicles. A native of
Japan. Occasionally cultivated as a curiosity or for ornament.

No. 186. Pennisetum latifolium Spreng.

A rather broad-leafed ornamental perennial, 3 to 5 feet high, branching above, with
greenish rather dense panicles 1^^ to 2 inches long. Native of Uruguay and
Argentina. In the latter country it is used for covering roofs of houses. Occa-
sionally found cultivated here as an ornamental grass. It forms large tufts and
is easily propagated by the roots or seeds. It may possess some value as a
forage plant.

No. 187. Pennisetum macrourum Trin.

A South American species, with unbranched stems, 3 to 4 feet high, and densely
flowered, cylindrical, yellowish panicles G to 8 inches long. Cultivated occa-
sionally for its odd and ornamental appearance.

No. 188. Pennisetum spicatum. Pearl Millet.

An annual of luxuriant growth, 6 to 10 feet high, with long, broad leaves, stout
culms, and terminal, erect, cylindrical, dense spikes 6 to 12 inches long, closely
resembling those of the common cat-tail of the marshes. It is a native of the
East, where it has been cultivated for its grain for many years. It is an impor-
tant agricultural grass of Central Africa. It requires a rich loose soil to obtain
the best growth, and under favorable conditions produces an enormous quantity
of green fodder, for which purpose it can be cut several times during the season.
It does not dry out readily and is often difficult to cure into hay. It has been
cultivated with success as far North as Pennsylvania and in many parts of the
South lor a good many years. It is best sown in drills, about 2 feet apart, and
5 to 6 pounds of seed are required per acre. The weight of good seed per bushel
is 56 pounds. The current price is $12 to $14 per 100 pounds.

No. 189. Pennisetum villosum Brown.

An Abyssinian species which has been introduced into cultivation because of its
ornamental appearance. It grows to the height of 1 or 2 feet, has long narrow
leaves, and dense, oblong or cylindrical, flnely bearded heads 2 to 4 inches
long. It is a hardy iterennial, graceful and attractive in appearance, and is very
fre(|uently cultivated as an ornamental under the name of I'ennisetnin loiKjisti/lum.

No. 190. Phalaris arundinacea Linn. Reed Canary-grass. (PI. Ill, tig. 3.)
A tall, leafy perennial, 2 to 4 feet high, from a creeping rootstock, with smooth
sheaths and narrow, branching panicles 4 to 8 inches long. It is a native, com-
mon on low, wet grounds, from New England southward to Tennessee, and
extending across the continent to California and Washington. It is native also
in Europe and northern Asia. It is little affected by either drought or cold, and
thrives well in the shade. It succeeds best on stiff, wet land, and on wet,
flooded fields and will grow fairly well upon rather dry, sandy soil. The root-
stocks are very strong and cree]> extensively, making this grass particularly
valuable for binding banks of viverS and ditches where the water supply is

60

ample. It does not attain its full size until the second year, and if designed for
bay should be cut before liowiring, for when fully luature the stems become
woody and are too hard to make good fodder. The seed, which matures in .July
and August, is easily gathered. Good seed should have 95
per cent purity and 60 per cent g<'rmination. It may be prop-
agated by seed or by cuttings of the rootstocks, these being
laid down at intervals of 1 foot, and slightly covered. The
retail price of seed quoted in the'New York market is $35 per
100 ])i)Uiids. A variety with white-striped leaves, called Rib-
bon-grass, is cultivated in gardens for ornament.

No. 191. Phalaris canariensis Linu. Canary-grass. (Fig. 72.)
An erect annual, 1 to 3 feet high, with flat leaA'es, and dense, ovoid
]ianicles or heads about an inch long. This grass is appar-
ently a native of the warmer countries of Europe, al.so of
north Africa and western Asia. It has become widely dis-
tributed throughout the warmer temperate and tropical re-
gions of the world, including Australia. Cultivated in Ger-
many and southern Euro])e. It has been introduced into this
country, and is occasionally cultivated for its seeds, which
are used for bird food. The flour from the seeds is utilized in
certain processes of cotton manufacture
(weaver's glue), and is even employed
in tlio making of some kinds of cake. It
is frefjuently met with iu waste grounds
Fio. 72.— Canary- about dwellings in the vicinitv of

gr.-is.s (I'halaris ^^^^^

canariensis).

No. 192. Phalaris caroliniaua Walt.
Southern Canary-grass; Apache Timothy.

This and Phalaris (itif/iisia (Fig. 73) have usually been regarded
as one species, the latter as avarietj- with more elongated
heads and rather stouter growth. Both the species and
variety are perennials, ranging from South Carolina to
Florida and westward to Texas. Arizona, California, and
northwaidon thel'acilic slope to Oregon. I'halariifanyusta.
a stout grass. 2 to 5 ie<t high, is sometimes called Apache
Timothy, owing to the resemblance of its lieads to those
of timoth}'. In California it is not esteemed as of any
agricultural value, but in the Southern States it has
been cultivated to a limited extent, and is spoken of by
Ronui a being an excellent grass for winter anil spring
grazing, as it remains green ihrougliout the winter
season.

No. 193. Phleum alpinum Linu. .Mountain Timothy.

This grass is a native of the niountain regions from Maine to
California and northward; also in northern I'.urope and
Asia. It is closely related to cultivated timothy. The
stems are usually stouter, more leafy, but not so tall, uudi-r
most favorable conditions attaining a height of 2 feet, but
rarily exceeding a foot.

Via. 73. -Apache Tim-
othy {I'lialaris an-
gusta).

No. 194. Phleum pratense Linn, rimothy. (Fig. 74.)

This is one of the best known and most extensively cultivated hay grasses. It is a
native of Kuroj)e (where, it is known as cat's-tail), north Africa, and northern
and middle Asia, and has become thoroughly naturalized in North America. It

61

appears to have Ijeen first cultivated in this country, and it was from this coun-
try that the seeds were obtained for its cultivation in England about the year
1760. It has never attained the same high esteem in England that it holds here,
where it is regarded as the standard of comparison for all other grasses grown
for hay. It succeeds best on moist loams or clays. In very dry ground the
yield is apt to be light. On such soils the base of the stem is often thickened
and bulb-like. Timothy is usually sown in mixtures with other grasses and
clovers. It may be used with red or alsiUe clovers, or with red top. Good fresh
seed should have an average i)urity of 97 per cent aud a germinative power of
85 to 90 per cent, a bushel weighing 48 pounds. The aiuount required per acre
varies with the quality of the seed, but of that containing 87 per cent pure in
gi-rmiuating. 16 pounds to the acre is sufficient. It is better, however, to sow
half a bushel to the acre if sown alone. With red or alsike
clovers about 10 per cent timothy is a proper mixture.

No. 195. Pliragniites vulgaris (Lam.) B. 8. P. Common Eeed. ^

This is one of the largest of our native grasses, growing to the
heiglit of 12 feet, the rather stout culms bearing numerous
broad, spreading, and sharply pointed leaves 1 to 2 feet long.
It has deeply penetrating aud extensively creeiiing rootstocks,
making it one of the most valuable grasses for binding the
banks of rivers subject to periodical Hoods. It is occasion-
ally found along the coast in brackish marshes and sometimes
upon sandy soils, and ])ossibly may be employed with advan-
tage for binding drifting sands or those liable to be shifted
by high tides. The rootstocks arc very strong, and when the
grass is once established scarcely anything can remove it.
The young shoots are liked by cattle and the mature stems
make the best of thatch. It is very widely distributed
throughout the temperate regions of both hemispheres, grow-
ing along river banks, borders of lakes, etc.

No. 196. Poa alsodes A. Gray. Wood Spear-grass.

A slender, erect i)erennial, 1 to 3 feet high, with flat leaves and
a narrow, rather few-flowered panicle. It is a native, growing
upon the wooded hillsides of New England, extending west-
ward to Wisconsin, and southwaid through Xew York, Penn-
sylvania, and Virginia, to the mountain regions of North Car-
olina and Tennessee. It possesses no recognized agricultural
value, but is apparently a good fodder grass, aud may possi-
bly prove of value in cultivation in woodland paiks. ()th<'r
closely related species of Poa extend westward across the
continent.

Fk;. 74. — Timothy
{I'lUeuin p r a-
tense).

No. 197. Poa annua Linn. Low Spear-grass.

A low, si>reading annual, with erect or ascending somewhat flattened stems, 2 to 12
inches high. This is an introduced grass, conunon in every dooryard and about
dwellings and cultivated grounds. It maybe found in bloom in the Southern
States in almost everj" month in the year. It often forms a considerable ingre-
dient in poorly kept lawns, as a result of its spontaneous growth.

No. 198. Poa arachnifera Torr. Texas Blue grass.

A strong-growing perennial, 1 to 3 feet high, with extensively creeping rootstocks,
long leaves, and narrow, densely flowered panicles. This grass is apparently
di(cciou8. The pistillate or seed-bearing plants have the spikelets densely woolly,
while the male spikelets are smooth. It is a native of Texas, but is now well
known in most of the Southern States, where it has been introduced into culti-

62

vation, having been highly recommended as a permanent ]>astnro grass. It may
he propagated by seeds or "root cuttings," whieh can be ol)tained from leading
seedsmen. It makes its principal growth during the winter months, (-oming
into bloom in the latter part of April or early in May. It makes a good sod and
withstands well the heat of summer and protracted drought. Owing to the wool
liness of the seeds, they are ditlicult to sow, and as they are rather expensive
this grass has not l)een so extensively propagated as it otherwise would have been.
A somewhat troublesome, but more certain, method of propagation is by root
cuttings. These may be planted at any time during the fall or early spring
months, being set out in rows 2 feet apart and 6 to 10 inches apart in the rows.
The retail price of the seed, according to New York catalogues, is $3 per pound.
No. 199. Poa arida Vasey. Bunch Si)ear-gra8s.
A smooth, upright jxreunial, 1 to 2 leet high, with rather rigid,
sharp-pointed leaves, and a close or narrow panicle 2 to 3
inches long. This grass is a native of the Kocky Mountain
region, from the British Possessions southward to Ariziuui.
It has short, creeping rootstocks, and although more rigid
than many species of I'oa, is one of the most valuable pas-
ture grasses of the dry regions of the West.
No. 200. Poa buckleyana Nash. Bunch Ked-top. • (Fig. 7.5.)
Eather slender, 1 to 2 feet high, with no creeping rootstock,
very narrow root leaves, and contracted panicles of usually
purplish spikelets. It is a perennial, and a native of the
Rocky Mountain regions, growing on the lower foothills
and in the valleys. It grows in bunches, not forming a
turf, and is regarded by the ranchmen as one of the most
valuable "bunch grasses" of the cattle ranges. It has
never been introduced into cultivation, but is deserving of
attention, for it responds readily to improved conditions,
and when growing along streams or in irrigated land
makes a luxuriant growth of foliage, and often attains a
heio^ht of 2 or 3 feet. There are many species of I'oa native
to the northern portion of our country, particularly in the
Northwest, and all are tender, nutritious pasture grasses.
Wherever grasses grow, from the seashore to tjie highest
mountain to]is, from one arctic /one to the other, the genus
I'oa has its representatives.
No. 201. Poa compressa Linn. Canadian Blue-grass.
A slender i)erennial, with much-Hat tened stems, (5 to 20 inches
higii, and small, narrow iiauicles. This grass has exti'U-
sively creeping rootstocks, and forms a strong turf. It is a
native of Knrope,which has become thoroughly naturalized,
and is now very widely distributed over our territory. It is closely related to
Kentucky Blue-grass, but it is more decidedly blue in color, and is readily dis-
tinguished from that species by its strongly ilattened stems, lower habit of
growth, and smaller ])aniclc. It is the " Blue-grass" of the farmers of the New
Kugland and Middle States. It will grow upon a great varbty of soils, even
up(ui t hose so poor and thin as to exclude the growth of other grasses. In culti-
vated lands it is likely to become trouljlesome, owing to its creeping rootstocks.
There is ]terhai>8 no better pasture grass for dry and poor soils, particularly in
the Eastern an<l Middle Stat.s. It is especially valuable for dairy i)asture8;
cows feeding on it yield the richest milk and linest butter. On good Innd it
becomes siifliciently tall for hay, and as it shrinks very little in drying, the hay
is heavy in ])roportion to its bulk. «ced is advertised by leading lirms at $14
per 100 pounds.

Fi(i. 75.— Hunch Red-
toji (/'«a huckliy _
ana).

63

No. 202. Poa fendleriana (Stend.) Vasey. Mutton-grass.

Widely di.stributed iu the Rocky Monutaiii regiou and on the Pacific Slope, extend-
ing southward through Arizona into Mexico. It grows in tufts to the height of
1 to 2 feet, has numerous long root-leaves, and short, compact heads or panicles.
It is tender, and affords a large amount of excellent grazing in the regions where
it throws abundantly, and may prove a valuable acquisition to the forage grasses
of the Atlantic States.

No. 203. Poa flabellata Hook. Tussock-grass.

A native of the Falkland and adjacent islands, which has attracted the attention of
travellers by its stout habit of growth and evident nutritious qualities. The
flowering stems are 5 to 8 feet high, and these are often exceeded by the numer-
ous radical leaves. This grass grows in great tussocks, 1 to 4 or 5 feet across.
The stems and long leaves are used for thatch. "It loves a rank, wet, peat bog,
with the sea spray dashing over it, an<l wherever the waves beat with greatest
vehemence and the saline spray is carried farthest, there the tussock grass thrives
the best, provided, also, it is on the soil it prefers." It thrives in cold countries
near the sea in pure sand at the edge of ]>eat bogs. The base of the stem is
edible, having a taste of mountain cabbage, a species of palm. The introduction
of this grass to certain points along our Northern seaboard, where other grasses
will not thrive or where there is danger of encroachment upon the laud by the
sea, may be desirable. The nutritious qualities of the grass and its furnishing
good fodder the year round upon the Falkland Islands has been repeatedly noted
by authors.

No. 204. Poa flava Linn. False Ked-top.

A native of northern Europe and the northern portions of our OAvn country, growing
naturally iu wet meadows and along the low banks of streams. It attains the
height of 2 to H feet, or even 4 feet in rich, moist soils, and has an expanded,
nodding panicle of rather small, purplish, or "bronzed" spikelets. It is found
in nearly all parts of New England, and often forms a very considerable and
valued portion of the native hay of the low meadows. It has been cultivated
to some extent, but should only be used in mixtures, as it does not make a good
sod when sown alone. It blooms in July and August.

No. 205. Poa nemoralis Linn. Wood Meadow-grass.

The larger forms of this are hardly to be distinguished from Foajiaca, and have a
similar range. It will, however, grow in a drier soil, excessive moisture being
harmful to it. In ^Montana this species ascends to the altiiude of 9,000 feet. At
this elevation it is dwarfed in iialjit, but at lower elevations it becomes taller
and affords excellent forage. There are several varieties of this grass in the
Kocky Mountains and the Northwest, some of them growing upon the dry foot-
hills and bench lauds. The larger iV)rms are well adapted ftu- hay. It is less
])roductive than many others, and its cultivation is not recommended, excepting
in shady parks or oi)en woodlands where an increase of forage is desired, or in
shaded lawns, and then only in the Northern and Middle States.

No. 206. Poa uevadensis Vasey. Nevada I)lue-grass.

A ])crennial bunch grass from the western i)rairie and plains regions. It grows on

both dry and damp soils, produces a large amount of excellent hay, and is

apparently worthy of cultivation.

No. 207. Poa pratensis Linn. Kentucky Blue-grass. (Fig. 76.)
This is apparently native throughout the temperate regions of the northern hemi-
sphere. It ranges from Labrador to South Carolina, westward to the Pacific
coast and northward to Alaska. In the limestone regions of Kentucky and
Tennessee it attains its greatest perfection and is there regarded as the king of

64

pasture orasses. It requires a good soil containing some lime in order to yield
profitable crops. It is largely employed in the Eastern and Middle States as a
lawn frass. lor which use it is well adapted. It makes a good, firm sod, and is
particularly well suited for turfing the slopes of terraces and embankments,
where the soil is good. There are several varieties, which difi'er chiefly in the
breadth and length of the leaves, particularly those at the base of the stem.
It is not so well adapted for the production of hay as it is for pasturage. It
should enter into all mixtiires designed for permanent pasture. The slender
stems of this grass attord an excellent material for tlie manufacture of the iiner
kinds of Leghorn hats. Good and well-cleaned seed should have 95 per cent
purity and 50 per cent germinating power. The pow er of germination, how-
ever, is usually much below this figure. When used for lawns, sow at the rate

of 3 bushels per acre. According to Steb-
ler and Schroeter, the seeds should never
be covered, but only rolled after sowing,
because they germinate better in the light
than in darkness. This is the June-grass
of the Northern States, Green-grass of
rennsylvaiiia, and Smooth-stalked Mead-
ow-grass of England.

No. 208. Poa subaristata Vasey. Vasey's
Sj)ear-gra8S.

A iKiciinial, from central Montana, where it
is common on dry hills and mountain
sh)pes, forming a large percentage of the
grass and supplying good pasturage. It
is an excellent species for cultivation in
Northern pastures.

No. 209. Poa trivialis Linn. Ivough-stalked
Meadow-grass.

An erect perennial, 1 to 3 feet high, with an
open, spreading panicle, closely related
to Kentucky Blue-grass, from Avhich it
diflers in having no conspicuous root-
stock and the stem distinctly rough below
the panicle. It has been cultivated for
many years in England, and is now liighly
esteemed as an ingredient in mixtures for
permanent pastures. It succeeds best
where the climate and soil are rather
moist and cool, but is not adapted to
sandy soil. In northern Italy this grass is known as the "queen of forage
plants," but elsewhere, particularly in tliis country, it is not so highly esteemed,
its ])rincipal use being to form bottom grass in jieimanent pastnres. Seed of
good (juality should have !I5 per cent purity and 50 per cent germination.
When sown alone Ih to 2 bushels of 8<!ed are required per acre.

No. 210. Poa wheeleri Vasey. Wht^eler's Blue-grass.

A ])erennial native pasture grass that grows on the high plains and on the mountain
slopes, lielow timber line, from Colorado northward. It is one of the best graz-
ing grasses of the Ifocky Mountains and promises to do well in cultivation.

No. 211. Pollinia fulva lientli. Sugar-grass.

A slender or rather stout perennial, 1 to I feet high, with narrow leaves and two
to three terminal spike.s, whiih are clothed with brown, silky hairs. It is a

Fl<i. 7G..

-KciiliK-Uy Blue-gra.ss {Poa jira-
ieiisix).

65

=v—

native of Australia, foi\ii(l throughout all the colonies of that couniry, growing
chiefly on the richest soils and on deep alluvial Hats bordering rivers and creeks.
It is productive, and much prized hy cattlemen. The name "sugar-grass'' is
applied to this species on account of the sweetness of its stems and foliage. Mr.
Fred Turner recommends it for cultivation on good laud, especially in grazing
districts, and he speaks of it as being a good grass to plant on the banlcs of
rivers, creeks, and dams, as its strong, penetrating roots would help to bind the
soil and prevent its being washed away by heavy rains or floods. This grass is
classed :is a variety of I'oUinia cummin<jii Nees, by Hackel.

No. 212. Puccinellia maritima (Huds.) Pari. .Sea Spear-grass.

A slender grass, 12 to 18 inches high, with creeping rhizomes. It occurs in the
marshes along the seacoasts of New England and the Middle States, and forms a
valuable element of the hay of tide-
water marshes.

No. 213. Redfieldiaflexuosa(Thurb.)
Vasey. Redfield's-grass. (Fig. 77.)

A stout, native perennial, 18 inches to
4 feet high, with long, narrow
leaves and diffusely spreading p;in-
icles, growing in the sandy districts
of Xebrask-i, Colorado, and Kan-
sas. It has deeply penetrating
and widely spreading underground
stems or rhizomes, making it a val-
uable species for binding drifting
sands. It is a characteristic grass
of the sand hills of central Nebras-
ka, growing in the drifting sands
and "blow-outs," and is a conspic-
uous and almost the only grass
found on the sand dunes south of
the Arkansas River, near Garden
City, Kans.

No. 214. Saccharuni ciliare Anderss.
A tall, handsome grass of India, with

smooth stems, 8 to 10 feet high,

long leaves, and large, showj' ]iaiii-

cles of silky-hairy flowers. Used

in the manufacture of matting,

rope, and paper, and for thatching. The stems are made into sieves, screens,

and baskets. The thicker portion of the .stems is used for lining wells, and

in making chairs and couches. The leaves are sometimes used for fodder,

and when young the grass is grazed by cat'le.

No. 215. Saccharum officinarum L. Sugar Cane.

A stout grass with many-jointed stems, 8 to 1.5 feet high, broad leaves, 3 to 4 feet
long, and long (16 to 32 inches), pyramidal iianicles. Native country unknown,
but sparingly spontaneous in the South Sea Islands, where it blossoms freely.
Cultivated in all tropical countries. Projiagated chiefly by cuttings of the
stems. There are many \arieties, distinguished chiefly by the color and height
of stem. The leaves arc sometimes used for fodder, and, to a limited extent, also
in paper making. The cane is cultivated, however, for its sweet juice, which
yields from 12 to 20 per cent sugar. Untler favorable circumstances an acre of
ground will produce about 20 tons of cane. In this country the production
of cane sugar on a commercial scale is practically limited to the States of Loui-
4393— No. U 5

Fifi. 77. — Redfielcfs-sr.ass (RednehJiri tTcx^mga).

66

siaua and Toxas. The sugar production in Louisiana in 1889 was 292.124,050
pounds. Tlie world's production of cane sugar was then about 3,000,000 tons,
more than one-third of wliich was produced by the West Indies. Molasses is
a product of sugar cane (the uucrystal]izal)le sugar), and rum is made from
molasses. Eefuse caue, from which the juice has been expressed, yields a
strong fiber, aud in parts of India is used for torches, etc.

No. 216. Savastana odorata (Linn.) Scribu. Vanilla-grass. (Fig. 78.)

A rather slender, sweet-scented perennial, 1 to 2 feet high, with short culm leaves

and brownish jianicles. Moist meadows aud mountains of tlic Northeastern States,

extending Avestward to Oregon. This grass, remark.ilile for its fragrance, has

long, creeping rhizomes, from which spring the floweiing culms and numerous

riG. 78. — Yanilla-grasB (Sava-
stana odorata).

Fio. 79. — Cord-grass
(Sj)artina cynotu-
roides).

Fia. 80. — Fox-grass
(Spartina patens).

long-leafed sterile or llowerlcss shoots. These long leaves are woven into small
mats and boxes by the Indians, aud liud a ready market because of the sweet
odor, which they retaiu for a loug time. This odor resembles that of sweet
vernal grass, but is more jjowerful, especially when this grass is dry. In some
European countries it is believed to have a tendency to indnce sleep, and
bunches of it are hung over beds for this purpose. It makes a good turf, but is
of little value for forage. lu the Northwest Vanilla-grass is generally called
Sweet-grass.

No. 217. Secale cereale Linn. Rye.

An annual, 1 to 6 feet high, with Hat leaves and a terminal, somewhat iJattened,
bearded spike 4 to 6 inches long. The rye crop of the United States in 1895
was 27,210,070 bushels, nearly half of which was produced in the States of

67

Peiiiisylvauia, New York, and Wisconsin. Rye is more largely cnltivnted iu
central and northern Europe than in America; the grain is there very largely
used for making Itread. It is comparatively little used in this country for that
purpose, being chiefly employed in the manufacture of malt and spirituous
liquors. The straw, which is longer than that of other grains, and more uniform
in size throughout, is employed in the making of a great variety of articles,
such as paper, hats, bonnets, mats, slippers, toys, and fancy articles. Rye
straw is little valued for fodder, but when gre«n it is esteemed as a forage plant,
and is sometimes sown for this purpose in the Southern States, cattle being
allowed to graze on it during the fall and winter months. For winter graz-
ing it should be sown upon well-prepared land early in
August, when it will be ready to ])astnre or to cut green
in the latter part of ( )ctober, and may be grazed through-
out the winter months.

No. 218. Spartina cynosuroides (Linn.) Willd. Cord-
grass. (Fig. 79. )

StoiTt, with erect, simple stems 2 to 9 feet high, Hat and
long-pointed leaves, and numerous erect or sjireading
spikes 2 to 5 inches long. This is a native, commou
along our ocean and lake shores, borders of rivers, etc.,
ranging from Maine to the Carolinas, and westward to
the I'acitic. It makes a fair but rather coarse hay when
cut early, and has been successfully employed in the
manufacture of twine and paper. The strong, creep-
ing, scaly rootstocks of this grass adapt it for binding
loose sands and river banks, and in the AYest it is used
for thatch.

No. 219. Spartina patens (Ait.) Muhl. Fox-grass. (Fig.80.)
A rather slender species, 1 to 2 (rarely 3 to 4) feet high,

with two to four slender, eiect, or widely spreading

spikes. This is conmion upon the salt marbhcs, and is

one of the luost valued species which go to form the

salt hay that these marshes produce. It ranges from

Maine southward to Florida and along the Gulf coast to

Texas. It is useful for packing glassware, crockery,

etc., and in the larger towns along the coast is much

used for this purpose. Fox-grass and IJlackgrass (Jini-

cus gerardi) are regarded as the best of the grasses of the

salt marshes for the production of hay, and chemical

analyses have proved the correctness of this opinion.
, Salt hay, composed chiefly of these grasses, at avei'age

market prices ia decidedly cheaper than timothy hay.

No. 220. Spartina striata inaritima (Walt.) Scribn. Creek-sedge. (Fig. 81.)
An erect and often stout salt marsh grass, with flat leaves, and few to many erect
' spikes. It varies a good deal in size, the larger form attaining a height of 5 to 8
feet. It grows along the ditches and creeks of the marshes, and is conspicuous by
its size and long, shining leaves, which are of a deep green color. Smaller forms
are found over the marshes away from the ditches, and these often are of a pale-
green tint, with comparatively short and shining leaves. All the forms are
somewhat succulent and have a rank odor, which is imparted to the milk and
butter of cows feeding upon them. The species is of little value for fodder, but
makes excellent thatch, and is used to some extent for litter and mulching.
This is a characteristic grass of the salt marshes, and is found along both the
Atlantic and Pacific coasts of our country and on the shores of Europe.

No. 221. Spinifex hirsiitus Labill. Spiny Rolling-grass. (Fig. 82.)

A sand binder of the coasts of Australia, New Zealand, and Tasmania. It has stout,

Fui. 81. — Creek -sedge
{Spartina atricta mari-
titna)

68

creeping stems, rootiui-' at tljc loiiils. and sending up coarse, leafy tufts. The
whole plant is clothed with soft haus. The male and female llowers are borne
ou separate plants, the latter in globular heails, which fall off at maturity and
are driven over the sands by the winds, drojiping their s.-eds as they roll along,
or are carried about by the waves and deposited on newly forujed sand bars,
there to continue the embanking process. It has no value for forage, but in
New South "Wales is regarded a most useful grass for fixing drift sauds wlieu
encroaching upon valuable lands. It is rea.lily propagated by cuttings or joints

of the stems, is of
comparatively quick
growth, and is very
persistent when once
established. It would
doubtless be of some
value ou our own South
em and Califoruian
coasts as a sand binder.

No. 222. Sporobolus ai-
roides Torr. Alkali Sac-
caton. ( Fig. 83.)
A stout rather coarse and
rigid grass, growing on
tussocks iu sandy and
more or less alkaline or
saline soils along rivers
and streams, ranging
from Montana south-
ward to Texas and
westward to Calitbr-
nia. It has a widely
s p r e a d i n g j) a n i c 1 e,
more open than sacca-
ton, and the grass
rarely exceeds 2 feet in
height. In some places
in Nevada, Utah, and
New Mexico it occurs
abundantly, and yields
a coarse fodder, which
is eaten by stock when
,..,,. more tend<r grasses

W/'I are not available.

No. 223. Sporobolus as-
perifolius (Nees and
Moy.) Thurb. Fine-top
Salt-grass.
A low, somewhat creeping
grass, 6 to l.'j inches high, with numerous short, spreading, acute, leaves, and an
expanded capillary panicle 3 to 5 inches long. It grosvs on alkaline plains from
Tcxah northwest to I'.ritish Columbia, in similar situations ,is Distichlia apicaUu
and like that species often forms a den.se, continuous turf. It grows well on
strongly alkaline soil, an<i may prove valuable for propagation on such lands.

No. 224. Sporobolus cryptandrus (Torr.; A. (iray. Dropseed.
Aslrou-lv rooted pereMuial, 2 to 3 feet high, with usually narrow, rather densely
lloweied panicles, which are generally partially iudose.l within the upper leaf-

Fio. 82.— Spiny Kolling-grassf.S'pmi/ea; hirsuUu) : a. male iuflorea-
ceuce; b, female iutioresceiice; a', male spikek-t; b', female
8pikelet.

69

shentli. Common on the Western plains and in the 'Rocky Monntaiu re.oion. It
is a tender species, apparently well liked by stock, and where it occurs abun-
dantly is very generally regarded as an important forage plant. In northern
central Kansas it is spoken of as one of the best early grasses, and the same is
said of it iu Young County, Texas.

No. 225. Sporobolus indicus (Linn.) R. Br. Smut-grass. (Fig. 84.)

A tufted, wiry, erect perennial, 1 to 3 feet high, with narrow, densely ilowered,
spike-like panicles 4 to 12 inches long. This grass is widely distributed through-
out the warmer temperate regions of the world, and has become quite common
in many parts of tlie Southern States, growing in scattered tufts or patches
about dwellings and in dry, open fields. As the season advances, the long, slen-
der panicles often become overgrown by fungus, so that they appear as if

Fig. 83.— Alkali Saccatou (Sporobolus
a I ro ides).

Fig. 84. — Smut-grass (Sjwrobolvs in-
dicus).

attacked by smut ; hence the common name " Smut-grass." By some it is looked
upon as valuable for forage, but the stems soon become too tongh and wiry to
be readily eaten by stock, and in fields where this grass occurs it is usually
avoided by cattle when other food can be had.

No. 226. Sporobolus junceus (Michx.) Kunth. Rush-grass.

Common in the dry, pine-barren regions of the Southeastern States. It grows to the
height of 18 inches to 2 feet, and is of little or no agricultural value. This and
Aristida atricta are known throughout the South as "Wire-grass."

No. 227. Sporobolus orientalis Kth. Usar-grass.

A wiry, creeping perennial, with rather short, rigid leaves and diffuse panicles. It
is a native of India, growing upon saline soils, often constituting the entire veg-
etation of the extensive "usar " tracts of northern India, A valuable grass for

70

alkaline or saline soils, yielding a liberal supply of fodder where other plants are
unable to exist.

No. 228. Sporobolus -wrightii Munro. Saccaton. (Fig. 85.)

A stout, erect pereuuial, 4 to 8 feet hisb, with long, narrow leaves and a slightly
spreading jiauicle 12 to 30 inches long. It grows in great clumps, producing a
large quantity of coarse, tough sterns and leaves, which, however, in the regions
where this grass is native — Arizona and New Mexico— yield a hay which is
valued for hor-ses and mules. As a hardy perennial for saline bottoms subject
to flooding or incapable of cultivation, this species deserves notice. The Indians
and Mexicans of Arizona and Lower California call all hay grasses "zacate,"
without any distinction between the species.

No. 229. Steuotaphrum dimidiatum TLinn.)
Brougu. .St. .A.ugnstine-grass. (Fig. >;6.j

This grass has a wide distribution, being found in
the tropical and warmer temperate regions of
both the Old and New World. lu New South
Wales it is known as Buti'alo-grass, and in
Jamaica it is called Pimento-grass. It grows
upon every variety of soil, from the apparently
sterile sand dunes to heavy clays, but is rarely
found far away from the coast. The flattened
stems emit ribrous roots at every Joint, where
they also readily separate, each piece becoming
a new center of growth. The leaves are flat or
simply folded, blunt or obtuse at the apex,
nearly one-fourth of an inch broad and 4 to 10
inches long. The flowering stems grow to the
height of 6 inches to a foot or more. St. Au-
gustine-grass grows along our ocean shores as
far north as South Carolina, and is extensively
used for lawns in Charleston, S. C, and cities
in the South near the coast. It is useful for
holding sloping embankments, especially those
subject to wash. It is jiropagated by cuttings
ox sets, and ([uickly covers the most sandy yards
with a dense, carpet like growth. In Soutli
America the creeping stems are employed iu
medicineas a diuretic. This is the Butfalo-grass
of Australia, and other local names in this coun-
try are Mission-grass and Charleston Lawn-
•nass.

Fig. 85. — Saccaton (Sporoboliis
wrightii).

No. 230. Stipa comata Trin. & Kupr. Needle-and-Thread.

This is one of the bunch grnsses common in the Rocky Mountain region, growing
on the dry mesas and foothills. It is a rather stout, leafy perennial, 1 to 3 feet
high, with a panicle usually partly iuclosed in the upi)er leaf sheath; the slen-
der awns of the spikelets are 4 to (J inches long and llexuose. This gr.iss h;is
some value, affording forage of good ([iKility in the regions where it grows
abundantly. In Dakota, Wyoming, etc., it is valued as a hay grass.

No. 231. Stipa elegautissinia l.abill.

A native of Australia, with erect, branching stems 2 to 3 feet high, narrow lenves,
and loose panicles G toH inches long. The axis and long, thread-like branches of
the panicle are elegantly plumose with tine, spreading hairs, rendering it
highly ornamental. Cultivated in gardens.

71

It ia an elesaiit form of

No. 232. Stipa leucotricha Trin. & Enpr. Bearded Mesqnite.

Au erect ]>ereiii)ial 1 to 3 feet bigli, with very nnrrow leaves aud a loose pauicle-
witli a ft'W loiiff-awDed spikclets. One of the best native hay grasses of oentnil
and southern Texas.

No. 233. Stipa pemiata Linn. Feather-gra.s8.

A native of southern Europe, 1 to 2 feet liigh, growing in dry, open ground, aud
often fultivated in gardens as an ornamental, the very long, slender awns being
clothed with spreading, silky hairs, presenting a very graceful plume-like
appearance. A variety of this grass {Stipa i^ennaia neo-mexicana) grows wild in
the mountain regions of western Texas aud Arizona,
the species, growing in clumps 6 1o 12 inches in di-
ameter, and is deserving the attention of the Hori.st.

No. 234. Stipa setigera Presl. Bear-grass.

A native of California, extending northward to Oregon
and eastward through New Mexico and Arizona to
Texas. It is common on the coast ranges and on
the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, where it is re.
garded as one of the most valuable of the native
bunch gras.ses.

No. 235. Stipa spartea Trin. Torcnpine-grass.

Rather stout, 18 inches to 3 feet high, with long leaves
and few-flowered panicles. The stout and twisted
awns are 3 to 6 inches long, and at the base
of the tloweriug glume is a long aud very sharp-
pointed callus. When mature, the awned llowering
glumes soon fall off, leaving the large, pale, straw-
colored, |)ersistent empty glumes, which impart to
the panicle a characteristic oat-like appearance.
The awns, when dry, are bent and very strongly
twisted, but when moistened they gradually untwist,
a character which enables the seeds to bury them-
selves in the ground, this being possible on account
of the very sharp callus at the base of the fruiting
srlume. The same character also rendci's the seeds
of this grass dangerous to sheep, as they readily
become attached to the wool, and may penetrate the
tlesh of the animal, causing serious injur}-. Aside
from this danger of affecting the quality of the
wool, and possibly the life of the sheep, this grass
may be considered a good forage plant, as it makes a very good hay, although
somewhat coarse. It is particularly common in ihe prairie regions of Iowa,
Nebraska, South Dakota, aud Minnesota, extending westward to the Rocky
Mountains, where it frequently occurs upon the dry foothills and bench lands.
This is the Bntfalo-grass of the Saskatchewan region. In some localities it is
known as Needle-grass, but that name is reserved for Jrisiida fasciciilata. It is
also known as "wild oats" in North Dakota.

No. 236. Stipa tenacissima Linn. Esparto.

A native of the sandy regions of southwestern Europe and northern Africa. It is a
tall perennial, with long, stiff, and very tough leaves, from which ropes, baskets,
mats, hats, and other articles are woven. The leaves are employed largely in
England and this country in the manufacture of paper, for which purpose this
grass is superior to straw. It is one of the most important articles of export
from Algeria, and from northern Africa and .'^pain more than 2,000 tons of Esparto
are exported to Great Britain annually. " Ten tons of dry Esparto, worth from
$18 to $25 per ton, can be obtained from an acre under favorable circumstances.'*

Fig. 86.— St. Augustine-grasa
( Stenotaphrvm dimidiat'u.m) .

72

The grass will grow on almost auy kiud of soil, from that whith is poor and
sandy or gravelly to heavy calcareous and clayey soils. It thrives in the dry
and hot climates of northern Africa, where many millious of acres are covered
almost exclusively with it. This grass is extensively cultivated in the south of
France, and possihly its introduction into some of our Southwestern districts
may render proritaldc. regions now practically worthless. It may lie propagated
Ijy seeds or hy divisions of the root. The latter is the more common method.
This and Lygeum apartiun ((institute the Esparto of commerce.

No. 237. Stipa vaseyi Scribn. Sleepy-grass.

A sttmt hunch-grass 3 to 5 feet high, which grows in the Rocky Mountains at an
altitude of Irom 5,000 to 6,000 feet, 'ihis grass, although producing a large bulk
of stems and leaves, is regarded with suspicion bj' stockmen. It is said that

when this grass is eaten in a fresh state by
horses it has a narcotic or jioisonous effect,
causing the animals to become crazed or
"locoed,'' its action thus resembling that of
the diadly loco weed {Astragalus moUlssimits).
Hay made from this grass does not appar-
ently possess any poisonous qualities.

No. 238. Stipa viridula Triu. Feather Bunch-
grass. (Fig, 87.)

A rather slender grass, 1 to 3 feet high, growing
in the Kocky Mountain legion and on the
foothills and mesas, from British Columbia
southward to Mexico and westward to the
coast On good laud, under irrigation, this
gra.ss attains the height of 3 feet or more,
and is by far the most valuable of the Stipas
for hay. The leafy culms are terminated by
a narrow, many-Howercd panicle of compar-
atively small and rather short-awued spike-
lets. The seed may be easily gathered. The
callus at the base of the fruiting glume is
short and l)arely pointed and not produced
into a long, very sharp, spur-like extension,
as in Porcupine-grass.

Nc. 239. Thuarea sarmentosa Pers.
A low, extensively creeping grass, rooting at thi^
joints, with ascending llowering branches,
short leaves, and slender spikes about an inch
Icmg. A native of Ceylon, northern Australia, etc., growing on the sands of
th(! coast. It is a tender grass, and may be useful in binding coast sands in
tropical countries or in the formation of lawns.

No. 240. Trichloris blauchar(iiana Scribn.

A jieronnial, li to 3 feet high, with flat leaves, and six to eighteen slender, Itearded
sj)ikes, vrhicli are 2 to 5 inches long, digitate or fasciculate at the apex of the
culm. It has long l»eeu kuowu to llorists under the name of Chhropsix hlainh-
ardiaiia, and is estceme(l as an ornamental grass, its attractive appearance mak-
ing it worthy of attention. It grows in Arizona and Mexico, extending into
South America.

No. 241. Tricholaena rosea Nccs.

A South African annual ( ?), with ditTueely brandling stems 2 to 1 feet high. The
spikclcts are in loose i)ani( b s. and clothed with reddish, silky hairs. It pre-

FiG. 87.— Fcatlier Buncb-grass (^tipa
viridula).

73

sents a pleasiug appearance wheu iu llower, and the panicles are valued for dry
bouquets. It has recently received some attention by agriculturists on account
of its very vigorous rapid growth and productiveness. Experiments made iu
this country and elsewhere indicate that it possesses much value as a meadow
or hay grass in mild climates. Three hundred stems have been counted on a
single plant. These stems take root wherever they touch the ground, and an
acre has been calculated to yield 30 tons of green fodder iu the rich valleys of
the Macleay River, New South "Wales. It is easily propagated by seed.

No. 242. Triodia exigua Kirk.

A little alpine grass, endemic in New Zealand. It forms even plots of turf, often
many square yards in extent; the leaves are firm, short, and shining; the com-
pact growth of tbe turf or sward prevents the encroach-
ment of other grasses or weeds. It is particularly to be
recommended for croquet lawns, never reiiuiring mowing
(K:rk). In the mountain regions of the West are sev-
eral of these small turf-forming grasses, which would,
if cultivated, make excellent carpet-like lawns in the
region of the Northern and Middle States.

No. 243. Triodia seslerioides (Michx.) Benth. Fall Red-

t<ip.
A stout, erect, native perennial, 3 to 5 feet high, with long,

flat leaves and an ample, spreading, usually purple pan-
icle 6 to 12 inches long, growing in dry or sandy fields

from southern New York southward and westward to

Missouri, blooming iu August and September. It is a

striking grass, and often covers considerable areas, but

IS apparently not liked by stock, and is not recognized

as possessing any agricultural value.

No. 244. Tripsacuni daotyloides Linn. Gama-grass.

(Fig. 88.)
A tall, coarse perennial, 3 to 8 feet high, growing in large

tufts, and producing a great mass of broad leaves,

which when young and succulent are eaten with avidity

by all kinds of stock. When abundant it affords a large

amount of natural forage, and is valuable to this extent.

It has very strong, creeping rootstocks, and the quan-
tity of forage produced is large and of excellent qualitj-.

The grass may be deserving of cultivation for forage

under certain conditions, and it makes an interesting

and attractive plant for lawn decoration or the garden.

moist soil IS best suited to it.

Fig. 88. — G.am.a-grass
{Tripsaciim dactyloidei).

A rich and rather

Yellow Oat-grass.

Nj. 245. Trisetuni pratense Pers.

A rather slender, loosely tufted perennial, growing to the height of 2 feet. It is a
native of Europe, northern Africa, and western Asia. It occurs along roadsides,
in open fields, and on grassy mountain slopes, where its presence is said to indi-
cate land of good quality. In Europe, Yellow Oat-grass is classed with the best
fodder plants and is highly valued for temporary, but more particularly for per-
manent pastures. It can be grown on almost every variety of soil, is fairly pro-
ductive, aud is readily eaten by stock. This grass has a record of yielding on
clayey loam soils 8,167 pounds green grass, 2,8.58 of hay, and 4,083 of aftermath
per acre. In this country it has received little attention. It is qiioted in New
York seed catalogues, the price ranging from $70 to $115 per 100 pounds. Sown
oulv m mixtures.

74

No. 246. Triticiim aestivum Linn. Wheat.

Wlieat in its many vaiit-ties is one of the most important of the trne grasses. It is
one of the oldest of the cnltivatecl cereals, the grains having been found in very
ancient Egyptian monuments, dating back to 2,500 or 3,000 B. C. The numerous
varieties are distinguished by the firmness of the axisof tlie spike (continuous), .
or its brittleuess (articulated); by the presence or absence of awns or beard; by
the color of the chafF. and color and size of the grain. TrUieum ceativum speltum,
of which there are a number of snbvarieties, is one of the oldest gi-ains, an<l was
everywhere cultivated throughout the Koman Empire, forming the chief grain
of Egypt and Greece. It is still grown to some extent in parts of Europe, notably
in northern Spain and southern Germany. In 189.5 the wheat crop of the United
States was placed at 467,102,947 bushels, while the wheat crop of the world is

estimated at 2,400,000,000 bushels. For a
discussion of the classification of the vari-
eties of wheat, see Ilackel's True Grasses
(English translation), and the Fourth
Annual Report of the New York Agricul-
tural Experiment Station, 1885.

No. 247. Triticum polonicum Linn. Wild-
goose Wheat.

A very striking species or variety of wheat,
with largo, compressed, and usually bluish-
green spikes or heads. The native coun-
try of this Triticum is not known, but it
probably originated in Spain, where it is
now cultivated to a considerable extent.
It is also cultivated more or less in Italy
and Abyssinia. The long and slender fruit
resembles rye, l)ut is ou the whole larger.
It has sometimes been advertised by seed
dealers and sold to fanners under the name
of (Jiant Rye. It is inferior to many other
varieties, for, although the heads present
a fine appearance, the production of ker-
nels is small; consequently the yield of
"■rain is light.

'No. 248. Uniola latifolia Michx. Broad-
leafed Spike-grass. (Fig. 89.)
Erect, with rather stout, leafy stems 2 to 4
feet high, and drooping panicles of large,
llat spikelets. The leaves are broad and
widely spreading, and these, together
with the graceful, nodding, open panicles, render it jdeasing in aiijiearance and
worthy of cultivation for ornament. It lias very strong, ereeiiing roots, and is
found chielly along streams and thicket borders from Pennsylvania southward
and westward to Illinois. A grass of little or no agricultural value.

No. 249. Uniola paiiiculata Linn. Seaside Oats.

A native, with stout, erect stems :? to 5 feet high, long, rigid leaves, and showy nod-
ding panicles of broad, i)ale straw-colored spikelets. Tiie panicles are gathered
for flry boni|Uets, and are often seen in our markets, along with tiie plumes of
I'ampas-grass. It grows in the drifting sands along tlie seashore, just above
higli tide, from Virginia soutliward to Florida, and along the Gulf Coast west-
ward to Texas. It is an excellent sand binder, its rootstocks being very strong
and penetrating deeply into the soil, much like those of Beach or Marram grass.

Fio. 89.— Broad-leafed Spiko-grass {Vniola
lalijoliu).

75

of which it is a southern analogue. The leaves are sometimes cropped by
cattle, but the grass is too tough aocl dry to be of auy importance as a forage
plant. Unioia comUiisala of similar habit of growth, but with more densely
flowered panicles, is found in the sands along the coast of Lower California.

No. 250. Zea mays Linn. Indian Corn or Maize.

One of the most valued of the cultivated cereals. The many varieties which have
originated in cultivation have been variously classified. They differ mucli in
size, in the form, size, color, and hardiness of the grain, and in the time required
for ripening. Husk Maize, in which the kernels are separately enveloped in
broad, herbaceous glumes, may approach the native form, which doubtless had
its origin in tropical America. Mais dc cojiote, regarded by some as a distinct
species, is said to grow wild in some parts of Mexico. The stems of this variety
are branched above, and the numerous small
ears are borne in the upper leaf axils al) along
the branches. The kernels are rounded and de-
Ijressed, or conical with a rather acute apex
pointing forward in two opposite rows, or irreg-
ularlv arranged in four to six rows. Aside from
its great value as a cereal, ordinary field corn
is the best of the annual forage plants for soil-
ing, and is also valued and used by many farm-
ers for ensilage, being cut for this purpose when
the kernels commence to glaze. Among the
many uses of corn may be mentioned that of
making cakes and corn bread, mush or hasty
pudding, which is boiled corn meal, a very com-
mon dish in New England; mixed with rye and
wheat flour the corn meal is used in making
"brown bread"; green corn, boiled or roasted,
is very largely eaten in its season, and canned
corn is an important article of food; pickled
green corn also is a favorite dish with many;
hulled corn, or hominy, pi-epared by soaking the
ripe grain in lye for a certain leugth of time and
then removing the hulls or covering of the ker-
nels, is a favorite dish in New England ; popped
corn, obtained by shaking the shelled corn of
certain varieties in a suitable dish over live
coals or a hot stove, is a luxury with children,
and mixed with sugar or sirnp is made into corn
balls and various kinds of candy ; corn and corn
meal are largely fed to farm stock in this coun-
try, particularly to cattle and hogs; alcoholic liquors in immense quantities are
distilled from the grain ; corn husks (the leaves covering the ears) are used in
making paper, in upholstery, and for filling mattresses. The total corn crop
of the United States for the year 1895 was 2,1.51,138,580 bushels, valued at
$544,985,534. The largest crop of any one State for that year was produced by
Iowa, and amounted to 298,.502,650 bushels.

No. 251. Zizania aquatica Linn. Wild Rice. (Fig. 90.)

A tall, erect annual, 3 to 10 feet high, growing in shallow water along rivers i^nd
lakes from Canada southward to Florida and westward to Texas. The grain is
a favorite food of the re I'd bird, and the grass is cultivated to some extent by
sportsmen with a view to attracting these and aquatic fowl. It grows very rap-
idly in 1 to 8 feet of water, and matures its seeds in August or early in Septem-
ber. It succeeds best when sown in the fall broadcast in 2 or 3 feet of water

Fig. 90.— TVild Kice (Zizania
aquatica).

76

having a muddy Itottoni, but it can be sown in tlie spring in water from 6 inches
to 5 feet deep. Before sowing- soak the seeds in water twenty-fonr honrs. C'nr-
rent retail price of the seeds is 25 cents per pound. This grass is abundant in
the tide waters of the rivers of the Middle States, notalily in the Delaware
below Philadelphia, where it is always designated as "the reeds." The stems
are used by coopers for making the joints of barrels intended to hold whisky or

petroleum perfectly
tight. This grass is
the .]fanorrin of the
Chippewa Indians, who
gather the grain for
food.

No. 252. Zoysia puugens
Willd. Japanese Lawn-
grass. (Fig. 91.)

A creeping maritime grass
growing on the sandy
shores of tropical and
eastern Asia, Australia,
and New Zealand. In
Australia it is consid-
ered an excellent sand-
bindi'i', and, while val-
uable for this purpose,
it is .at the same time
an excellent forage
p 1 a n t . Under favor-
able circumstances it
forms a c()mi)act turf
and artbrds a large
amount of choice pas-
t n r a g e . Constant
cropping apjiears to
improve it and increase
the density of the turf.
In the foreign settle-
ments of China and Ja-
pan it is prized as a
lawn grass, especially
for tennis courts. It is
finer-leafed than f>t. Augustine-grass, and may prove superior to that for lawns
in the Southern and Gulf States. The habit of growth of Japanese lawn-grass
is very similar to that of Bermuda, but the cree])ing stems are rather stouter
and more rigid and the upright branches or tufts of liowering stems are never
80 tall, rarely exceeding (3 inches. It may be propagated by root cuttings or by
seed. Importations ot both roots and seeds from Korea have been successfully
grown here, and the grass has ])roved hardy as far north as Connecticut. The
leaves turn brown in the autumn, as do those of Bermuda.

Fig. 91. — Japane.se Lawn-grass (Zoysia pungem) ; a to d details
of tbe spikelet.

GRASSES FOR SPECIAL SOILS OR USES.

The following lists inchule the best kiiowu aud most \ aluable of the
economic grasses. Descriptions of the species enumerated will be
found in the body of the work. Seeds or roots of nearly all can be
obtained from seedsmen.

HAY GRASSES.

Agropyrou teueruiii, Agrostis iilba, A. vulgaris, Alupecurus pratensis, Andropogon
balepeiisis, A. proviucialis, Airheuatheruni elatius, Astrebla pectiiiata, Aveua sativa,
Bouteloiia cnrtipendula, Piiachypodium Japonicuui, Broums iuermis, Ch;ptofb]oa
italica, Cynoiloii dactylou, Cyiiosurns ciistatus, Dactylis glomerata, Eragro>tis
abyssmica, Euchla ua Inxurians, Festucaelatior, Hordeum sativum, Loliumitalicum,
L. pereime, Oryza sativa, Panicuiu crus-galli, V. uiaximum, P. luiliaceum, P. uiolle,
P. sauguinale, P. texauiun, Peunisetuin spioatum, Phalaris aruudiuacea, Pbleuiii
pratense, Poa prateusis, Saccliaruni officiuariim, Tiichohtua rosea, Trisetumpratense,
Triticuni ;estivuui, Zea luays.

PASTURE GRASSES.

Agropyrou divergeiis, Agrostis alba, A. stolouifera, A. vulgaris, Audropogon uutaus,
A. proviucialis, A. scoparius, Aristida fasciculata, Astrebla ))ectinata, Bouteloua
cui'tipeudula, B. eriopoda, B. oligostacliya, Brachypodium ja])ouicuiu. Bronius uuio-
loides, B. iuermis. Bulbilis dactyloides, Chloris verticillata, Cyuodou dactylou,
Dactylis glouierata, Eriocliloa puuctata, Eriocoma cuspidata, Festuca duriuscula,
F. idatior, F. ovina, F. rubra, Hilaria ceucbroides, Lolium pereune, Pauicum ciliati—
siuumi, Paspalnm compressuui, P. disticbuui, Poa aracbuifera, P. compressa, P.
prateusis, P. trivialis, Secale oercale, Steuotai)brum dimidiatum.

LAWN GRASSES.

Agrostis coarctata, A. stolouifera, A. cauiua, Bulbilis dactyloides, Cynodon dacty-
lou, Festuca beteropbylla, F. rubra, Fourniera mexicana, Opizia stolouifeia, Paspa-
lum compressum, Poa uemoralis, P. prateusis, P. trivialis, Steuotapbrum dimidiatuui,
Zoysia puugeus. ^See paper ou "Lawns aud Lawu Maliiug"' iu Yearbook of tbe
Department for 1897. )

GRASSES FOR WET LANDS.

Agrostis alba, A. coarctata, A. vulgaris, A. stolouifera, Aruudinaria macrosperma,
A. tecta, CalamagTostis canadensis, Cbietocbloa magna, Distichlis spicata, Festuca
rubra, Holcus lauatus, Lolium italicum, Oryza sativa, Pauicularia americanii, P.
fluitaus, P. uervata, Panicuiu crus-galli. P. molle, Pa.'^palum compressuui, P. disti-
cbum, Pbalaris aruudiuacea, Poa flava, P. prateusis, Steuotapbrum dimidiatum,

Zizania aquatica.

77

78

GRASSES FOR EMBANKMENTS.

Agropyron repens, Audiopogon lialepensis, A. sqnarrosus, Anmdiuaria macro-
sperma, Bromus iueriiiis, Calamovilfa longifolia, Cyuodou dactylon, Distichlis
spicata, Festnca rubra, Iinperata arundiuacea, Pauicum digitarioides, P. obtusum,
P. repens, Paspaliim comijressum, P. distichuin, Phalaris arnudiuacea, Pbragmites
vulgaris, Spartiua cyuosnroides, Steuotapbrum dimidiatum, Zoysia puugeus.

GRASSES FOR HOLDING SHIFTING SANDS.

Agrqstis coarctata, Amiiiopbila arenaria, Audropogoii ballii, Calamoviila lougifolia,
Cynodou dactylou, Elyinus areuarius, E. mollis, Eragrostis obtusitlora, Imperata
arundiuacea, Mublenbergia puiigens, Pauicum amarum, P. repeus, Redtieldia flexuosa,
Spartiua pateus, .Si)inifex birsutus, Steuotapbrum dimidiatum, Tbuarea sanuentosa,
Uuiola pauiculata, I'oa maorantba, Zoysia puugeus. (Sfe paper ou "Grasses as
Saud and Soil Binders "' iu the Year-book of the Department for 1894.)

INDEX.

[The English names printed in italics are the ones in most common use; these only appear in the
text. The references are to the numbers, not to pages.]

African Cane

Millet 88

Alabama Guinea-grass

Aleppo-grass

Alkali-grass

Saccaton

Alopecuras fulviis

JS"o.

188

188

21

21

86

221

15

American Canary-grass 192

Oat-grass

38

173

42

159

197

2

192

Timotlnj 192

Angola-grasw

Animated Oats

An-kee

Annual Meadow-grass

Apache Blue-grass

Millet

21

58

31

31

226

Arizona Cotton-grass 162

Arabian Millet

Arctic-grass

Aristida bromoides .

' schiedeana

stricta

Arrow-grass

Astrebla triticoides.
Austin-grass

Australian Millet.
Oats ..

Prairie-grass

236
37

175
21

58
58
^52

Sand-grass

Austrian Brome-grass 54

Avena barbata 39

fatua glabrescens 39

pratensis 32

Awued Wheat- grass 1

Awnless Brome-grass 54

Bahama-grass 79

Bajree Millet 188

Bamboo 43

Barley 126

grass 126

Barn-grass 159

Barnyard-grass 159

Millet 159

No. -

Beach-grass 18, 249

Bear-grass 234

Beard-grass 31

Bearded Crowfoot 74

Darnel 134

Mesquit 232

138

1

28

'.. 70

14

7

79

24

Saccaton . ...
Wheat-grass:

Bene.

Bengal-grass

Bent

grass

Bermuda-grass

Big Blue-stem

Bitter Panic-grass 1.55

Black Bent 176

Bunch-grass 120

Fruited Mountain Bice 147

• Grama 45, 46, 47, 120, 141

Oat-grass 232

Blady-grass 128

Blow-ozit-grass 141, 213

Blue Grama 47

grass 5, 24, 201, 207

joint 5,24,60

stem 5, 24

Bonnet-grass

Borden's-grass

Bottle-grass

Foxtail

Bottom-grass.

I
14
73
69
175
220
76

Branch-grass

Branching Foxtail

Bristly Foxtail 70, 72

Briza maxima 52

minor 52

Broad-leafed Spike-grass 248

Brook-grass 20

Broom-corn Millet 165

grass 26, 29

sedge 26, 29

Brown Bent 9

Millet 165

79

80

No.

Broun ioi) 101

Buchloe v8e<' Bulbilis) 57

Buft'alo Bimcli-grass 1 15

grass 47, 59, 175, 229, 236

Bull-grass 218,244

Bulrusli Millet 188

Buiicli-grass. 26, 107, 199, 200, 230, 234, 238

Ked top 100

Spear-grass 199

Buucbecl Wheat-grass 2

BuriU'ii's-grass 9, 14

Bur-grass 68

Bushy Blue- stem 23.

Buzzard-grass 88

Calf-kill 122

Calit'uruia Blue-grass 202

Timothy 192

Canadii Lyme-grass 91

Canadian Bhie-{jrass 201

Small-reed 60

Cane 34, 36

Caiiary-gni-ss 191

Capim gorduro 136

mellado 136

Carpet-'jrass 180, 225

Carrizo 36

Cafs-tail-grass 194

Cat-tail Millet 70, 188

Chaudlers-grass 4

Cheat 57

Cheis>i 57

Ch Iclan Corn 27

Chloris gracilis 74

polydactyla 74

Chloropsis blauchardiaua 240

Coast Couch-grass 252

Cock's-foot 81, 158

Cock-apnr 66

grans 68

Colorado Blue-stem 5

grass 175

Saud-grass 22

Commou Mauua-grass 152

Meado%v-grass 209

Reed 195

Sea-reed IS

Spear-grass 207

Coucho-grass 175

Cord-grax'i 218

Coru-bea<ls 78

Cotlon-<ira>'X 163

Couch Brome 54

j/crtsv 4, 79

Crab-yruui 89, 171

Creek-aedtjc 220

No.

Creeping Beard-grass 144

Unit 13

Crab-grass 172

Fescue 114

(i ;•(( ma 49

Mesquite 119

Panic 170

Poa 201

Sea Meadow-grass 212

Spear-grass 212

Soft-grass 123

Spear-grass 201

Wheat-grass 4

Crested Dog's-laU 80

Crop-grass 89

Crowfoot-grass 81, 89

Gram ;

Cteuium {see Campulosus).

Cuban Cane

Cuba-grass

Darnel

Dcer-graffs .

Devil's Darninii-needles

47
67
36
21

Curly Mesi/nit 119

Dagassa 88

Dakota Milbt 70, 165

.... 134

97

.... 236

4

.... 236

7

.... 184

79

4

31

9

89

.... 79,89

79

40

32

Kuitting-ueedles .

Dew-grass

Ditch Millet

Doab

Dog-grass

Town-grass .

Dog's Bent

Tail-grass .

Tooth-grass

Doorba

Downy Oat-grass

Triple- awn

I Drop-seed 224

! grass 137, 139, 225

j Duck-grass 204

4

4

Durfa-grass .
Durfee-grass

Dutch-grass 4, 89

Dwarf Mi'adow-gia>s

Karly Jlnnch-grass

Meadow-gr;

197

87

197

.-)'.)

106

188

27

21.82

.Millet 21,188

Knirlish Beut 7

Mes(iuit

Spriug-griis:
East ludia Millet
Egyptian Corn . . .
irrass . . .

81

No.

English Blue-grass 110, 201

grass 207

Eye-grass 133

Epicampes macroura 97

Eragrostis iieo-nioxicaiia 98

Eriochloa anuulata 105

Esparto 237

Eiicliln'iia Inxuriaiis 108

Evergreeu-grass 33

Millet 21

Everlasting Grass 106

Fall Bedtop 243

False Couch-grass 3

Guinea-grass 21

Mesquit 59

Oat-grass 33

Bedtop 204

Feather Bunch-yrass 238

jSed(je-(jrass 25

Grass 122, 230, 232, 233, 238

Festuca ruljra glaucesceus 114

Fibrous-rooted Wheat-grass 1

Fine-bent 14

Fine-top 9, 14

Salt-grass 222, 223

Finger-grass 171

Fiuger-spiked Beard-grass 24

Wood-grass 24

Fiu's-grass 4

Fiorin 7,13

Flat-stalked Blue-grass 201

Meadow-grass 201

Floating Foxtail 15

Grass 127

Manna-grass 152

Fly-away Grass 12

Fool-hay 12, 156

Fox-grass 219

Foxtail 124, 125

Fowl Meadow-grass 60, 151, 204

French Rye-grass 33

Fresh-water Cord-grass 218

Fringed Brome-grass 53

Furze-top 9, 14

Galleta 120,121

G ama- grass 244

German Millet 70

Giant Millet 71

Bye-grass 92

Gilbert's Relief-grass 192

Guinea-grass 164

Glyceria (sec Panicularia) 150

maritima («eePucciuellia) 212

Golden Millet 70

Oat-grass 245

4393—^0. U G

Golden Top 131

Goose-grass 89, 175, 197, 212

Grama 47, 138

China 141

Grapevine-grass 167

Mesqiiit 167

Grass of the Andes 33

Great Bunch-grass 115

Green Foxtail.
grass ..

Pigeon-grass
Yalley-grass ,

Guatemala grass
Gumbo-grass

73

207

73

21

108

5

Gynerium variegatum 118

roseum 118

Hair-grass 12

Hairy Finger-grass 171

-tlowered ijaspaluui 181

Mesquit .,

Hard Fescue

grass

Hassock-grass . .
Hedgehog-grass
Herd's-grass

45

. . . 109

229

84

68

7. 14, 194

Hierochloe {see Savastana) 216

Hog Millet 165

Holy-grass 216

Hordeum decorticatum.

spontaneum ..

Horse Millet

Hungarian Blue-grass

Brome-grass

126
126
188
122
54
70

grass

Imperata hookeri 128

Indian Corn 259

Couch-grass 79

grass 23, 26

Millet 107, 188

Beed . .
Rice..,
Wheat
Italian Millet

77
251
157

70

Rye-grass 132

Japan Millet 188

Japanese-grass '. 51

Lawn-grass 252

Panicle-millet
Wheat-grass .

Job's Tears

Joh nson-grass

Joint-grass

165

51

78

21

182

219

June-grass 130, 207

Juncus gerardi.

Jungle Rice.

15«

82

So.

Kafir Corn 27

Kentucky Jilue-grass 207

Khusbns 28

King's Fescue 112

Knol-grass 182

Knot-root-grass 139

Koda 184

Korakau 88

Large Caue 34

Crowfoot-grass 159

Waier-grass IM

Wbite-graiued Mountain

Eice 14G

Lemon grass G7

Lime-grass 84

Little Blue-stem 26

Cral)-gra8s 172

Long-leafed JJcnt-grass 65

Loiv Grama 48

Sjjcar-grass 197

Louisiana-grass 18i)

Lygeiim spartum 237

Lyme-gras3 96

Macoun's Eye-grass 93

Marsh Bent-grass 7

grass 218, 219

Maiden Cane 160

Mais de Coyote 250

Maize 250

Marram 18

Mandua 88

Manisuris couipressa 135

Manitoba Millet 165

Manna-grass 171

Manorriu 251

Many-eared Grama 4S

flowered Millet-grass 149

Mat-grass 18

May-grass 197

Meadow Cat's-tail-grass 194

Fescue 110

Foxtail 17

Soft-grass 122

Spear-grass 153

ifean's-grass 21

Mesquit 31,50, 119

-grass 47, 59

Mexican liroom-root 97

Krerlasiing-grass 105

Lawn-grasK 117, 143

Salt-grass KM)

;/7(i.sA 97

Millet 7(1. 165

M issiun-grass 229

Mitebell-grass 37

Ifo.

Muhlenberg's-grass 142

Mublenbergia viresceus 138

Munro-gras>! 154

Mnskit-grass 45, 47

Mutton-grass 202

Molasxes-grass 136

Morocco Millet 21

Mountain Blue-grass 2

Foxtail 16

Oat-grass 83

Eedtop 9,11

Eice 146

Sedge-grass 26

Spear-grass 199

Timothy 16, 193

Native Meadow Oat-grass 38

Timothy 193

Xeedle-a u d-th rea d 230

grass 31,230

Nerved Manna-grass 153

Nevada Blue-grass 206

Nimbi.- Will 137

Northern Eedtop 11

Oats 41

Oat-grass 33

Old Witch-grass 156

Orchard-grass 81

Orcheston-grass 209

Palm-leafed Grass 168. 174

Pami)a8-grass 118

Panic Bent-grass 154

Para-grass 166

Paramatta-grass 225

Pearl Millet 188

Peunisetum longistylum 189

Perennial Eye-grass 133

Pbalaris angnsta 192

Pigeon-grass 73

Pimento-grass 229

Pine Bunch-grass 113

grass &i

Pinyon-grass 113

riumv-grasg 103. 104, 138

Poa llava 205

Poison Eye-grass 134

Polish Millet 171

Wheat 247

Pollinia cummingii 211

I'ony-grass 63

I'lircu pine-grass 236

Prairie-grass 87. 130

Juni -grass 130

Pungent Miadow-grass 99

Purple Beard-grass 31

grass 178

83

No.

Purple paspalum 179

Top 243

Wood-grass 26

Qnack-grass 4, 86

Quake-grass 4

Quaking-graxs 52

Quick-grass 4

Qiiitcb-grass 4

Quivering-grass 107

Eadlx anatheri 28

graminis 4

Ragi Millet 88

Kancheria-grass 90

Randall-grass 110

Range-grass 167

Bat-tuU-grass 135

EattJesnake-grass 44, 151

Ray-grass 133

Reel Fescue 114

Millet 171

Red Top 7,14,60

panic-grass 154

EedfielcVs-grass 213

Reed 18,86,251

Bent-grass 61

Canary-grass 190, 192

Fescue 110

grass 23,195

Meadow- grass 150

Ecscue-grass 58

Rbode Island Bent 9,14

Ribbon Cane 215

grass 190

Eice 145

River-grass 175

Rolling Spinil'ex 221

I'ottboeriia (see Mauisuris) 135

Rough Bent 12

Cock's-loot 81

leafed Bent 8

Meadow-grass 209

Stalked Meadow-grass 209

Rougliish Meadow-grass 209

Running Mesquit 119

Rush-grass 226

Marsh-grass 219

Russian Millet • 165

Rye 217

grass 92, 133

Saccaton 228

Salem-grass 122

Salt-grass 86, 219, 222

Marsh-grass 219

Sand-hur ()S

grass CO, 65, 107

No.

Sand Oats 39

Reed 18

Spur 68

Satin-grass 142

Schradei*'s Brome-grass 58

Scutch-grass 4, 79

Sea-coast Bent 10

Lyme-grass 90

Speai'-grass 212

Sand Reed 18

Seaside Millet 182

Oats 249

Sedge 220

grass 29

Seed Mesquit 50

Seneca-grass 216

Sesame-grass 244

Setaria {see Chietochloa) 69

Shama Millet 158

Sheep's Fescue 45

Side-oats 45

Silk-grass 12

Silt-grass 182

Silver Beard-grass 25

Simpson's-grass 160

Six- Weeks-grass 48, 197

Sleejjy-grass 235

Slender Fescue 116

Meadoiv-grass 101

fl' heat-grass 6

Slough-grass 44,218

Small Cane 35

Indian Millet 148

Smaller Blue-gra.-<s 201

Smooth Brome 54

Brome-grass 56

Chloris 75

Meadow-grass 207

Faspalum 183

Rye-grass 96

Stalked Meadow-grass 207

Soft Sea Lyme-grass 94

Sorgh urn 27

Southern Canary-grass 192

Eragrostis 102

Spear-gra.ss 102

Spanish-grass 166

Spear-grass 197, 207, 236

Spike-grass 86, 249

Spiny Rolling-grass 221

Sprouting Crab-grass 170

Millet 169

Squirrel-grass 125

-tail- grass 229

67. Augustine-grass 229

84

No.

St. Mary's-grass 21. 164

Stewart's Canary-grass 192

Stickers "72

Stinl-grass 99

Stipa ponnata neo-niexicana 233

Suffolk-grass 197

Sugai- Cane 215

grass 211

Summer Dew-grass 14

Smnl-grass 225

Swa)n2) C/fCss 53

Millet 129

Wire-grass 204

Sweet-grass 216

Keed 77

Vernal-grass 30

Scented-grass 30

Spriug-grass 30

Yerual-grass 30

Su'itch-g7'ass 176

Syrian-grass 21

Tall Fescue 110

Grama 45

Meadow Fescue 110

Oat-grass 33

Oat-grass 33

Quaking-grass 151

Redtop 14,243

Sheep's Fescue 109

Tame Timothy 194

Tear-grass 78

Tef .'. 98

Tennessee Fescue 114

Oai-grass 83

Teosinte 108

Terrell-grass 91, 96

Texan ISIesquit 50

Texas lilue-graxs 198

Millet 175

Thatch 220

grass 218

Tickle-grass 12

Timothy 194

Tooth-aehr grass 67

Trillium n-stivum speltmn 246

Tufted Hair-grass 84, 85

Turheg-foot 22. 24

Tuscarora Rice 251

Tussock-grass 203, 225

Twisted Beard-grass 19

Twitch-grass 4

Viiiola coiideusata 249

TJpright Chess 56

Sea Lymc-grass 90

I'sar-graxa 227

TaniUa-graas 216

iN'o.

Various-leafed Fescue Ill

Vaseg's Spear-grass 208

Velvet-grass 122

Lawn-grass 122

Meadow Soft-grass 122

Mesquit 122

\'ernal-grass 30

Vetivert 28

Vine-Mesquit 167

Virginia Beard-grass 29

Lyme-grass 96

Wall Barley 125

Water Couch 182

Foxtail 15

grass 159

Meadow-grass 150

Oats 251

Rice 251

Western Beard-grass 31

Brome-grass 55

Couch-grass 3

June-grass 130

Quack-grass 3

Rye-grass 92

Wheat-grass 5

Wheat 246

grass 4,5

Wheeled s Blue-grass 210

White Bent 7. 26

Grama 45, 47

Rush 219

Spear-grass 150

Timothy 122

-top 7

Wild Bailey 124

Fescue-grass 248

Goose Wheat 247

Millet 73,107

Oat-grass 23, 238

Oats^. 39, 61 . 236, 238, 248

Quack-grass 5

Red-top 176

Rice 158,251

Rye 91, 95, 96

Timothy 44,142

AVheat 95

Willard's Brome-grass 57

Windmill-grass 76

Wire Bunch-grass 2

Grama 119,140

grass . 26, 32, 79, ><^, 137, 167, 201, 226

Wiry Wheat-grass 2

Witch-grass 4

Wood-grass 23, 139

Hair-graxa 85

85

Ko.

fj'ood Meadow-grass 205

Reed-grass 77

S2)ear-g)ass 196

Woolly Beut -grass 65

Jointed Grama 45

Soft-grass 122

Yard-grass 89

Yelloiv Foxtail ...

Oat-cfrass .

Top

Verba de Para . . .

Yorkshire Fog . . .

White

Zacate

TSo.

69
245

62
166
122
122
228

©

Bulletin No. 14. (Revised.) Agro8.34

U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE.

DIVISION OF AGROSTOLOGY.

[Orat§!ii and Fornigr Plant TnreMtigatiouM.J

ECONOMIC GRASSES.

BY

F. LAMSON-SGRIBNER,

AGROSTOLOGIST.

WASHINGTON:

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.
1900.

LETTER OF TRANSMllTAL.

U. S. Department of Agriculture,

Division of Agrostology,
Washington^ D. C.^ February 26, 1900.
Sir: Owing to a continued demand for copies of Bulletin No. 14
of this Division, entitled "Economic Grasses," after the first edition
was exhausted, I have revised the matter contained therein and have
the honor to request the printing of a new edition of same. This bul-
letin embraces brief descriptions of the more important economic
grasses of this country, or those which have been introduced because
possessing some merit, and it is believed ailords a ready answer to the
usual inquiries respecting a large number of our grasses. Much of
the matter here presented is taken from Bulletin No. 3 of this Division,
but owing to the fact that that bulletin exceeded 100 pages the edition
pu])lishcd was limited to 1,000 copies, and consequentl}' was very
quickly exhausted.
Respectfully,

F. Lamson-Scribnek,

A(j7^ostologist.
Hon. James Wilson,

Secretary of Agriculture.

CONTENTS.

Page.

Descriptions 7

Grasses for special soils or uses 77

Hay grasses 77

Pasture grasses 77

Lawn grasses 77

Grasses for wet lands 77

Grasses for embankments 78

Grasses for holding shifting sands 78

3

ILLUSTRATIONS.

PLATES.

Page.

Plate I. Fig. 1. — Planting Beach grass in sand near Provincetown, Mass.
Fig. 2. — Kafir corn in grass garden of tbe U. S. Department of

Agriculture 10

II. Single plant of native "Giant Millet" in grass garden of the U. S.

Department of Agriculture 28

III. Fig. 1. — Young plants of Teosinte in grass garden of the U. S. De-
partment of Agriculture. Fig. 2. — Keed Canary grass in grass

garden of the U. S. Department of Agriculture 38

FIGURES.

Fig. 1. Agropyron ropens 8

2. Agrostis alba 8

3. Alopecurus geniculatus 10

4. Alopecurus pratensis 11

5. Ammophila arenaria 11

6. Andropogon halepensis 12

7. Andropogon untans 12

8. Andropogon provincialis 13

9. Andropogon scoparius 14

10. Andropogon virginicns 15

11. Anthoxanthum odoratum 16

12. Aristida fasciculata 17

13. Arrhenatherum elatius 17

14. Arundinaria macrosperma 18

15. Avena fatua 19

16. Beckmannia eructeforinis 21

17. Bouteloua curtipendula 21

18. Bouteloua oligostachya 22

19. Briza media 23

20. Bromus inermis 23

21. Bromus secalinus 24

22. Bromus unioloides 24

23. Bulbilis dactyloides 25

24. Calamagrostis canadensis 25

25. Calamovilfa longifolia 26

26. Campulosus aromaticus 27

27. Cenchrus tribuloides 27

28. Chtetochloa glauca 27

29. Cha^tochloa germanica 28

30. Chictochloa italica 28

31. Chloris glauca 29

32. Cynodon dactylon 30

33. Cynosurus cristatus 31

34. Dactylis glomerata .• 31

35. Dactyloctenium legyptium 32

36. Deschampsia flexuosa 33

5

Paga

Fig. 37. Distichlis spicata 33

38. Eleusine indica 34

39. Elymus arenarius 35

40. Elymus virginicus 35

41. Epicampes rigeiis 36

42. EragTostis luaj or 36

43. Eriocoma cuspidata 38

44. Euchliieua mexicaua 38

45. Festuca elatior arundinacea 39

46. Festuca rubra glaucescens 40

47. Festuca scabrella 40

48. Hilaria cencliioides 41

49. Hilaria rigida 42

50. Holcus lanatus 42

51. Hordeuui j ubatutu 43

52. Imperata hookeri 44

53. Lolium italicum 45

54. Lolium perenne 46

55. Muhleiibergia diifusa 47

56. Muhleubergia mexicaua 47

57. Muhleubergia racemosa 48

58. Panicularia cauadensis 50

59. Panicularia fluitaus 50

60. Panicularia nervata 51

61. Pauicum agrostoides 51

62. Panicum amarum 51

63. Panicum crus-galli 52

64. Panicum maximum 53

65. Panicum sauguinale 55

66. Panicum serotinum 55

67. Panicum texauum 56

68. Panicum virgatum 56

69. Paspalum compressum 57

70. Paspalum disticbum 58

71. Paspalum Lcve 58

72. Phalaria cauariensis 60

73. Phalaris angusta 60

74. Pbleum i^ratense 61

75. Poa buckleyana 62

76. Poa pratensis 64

77. Redfieldia flexuosa 65

78. Savastana odorata 66

79. Spartiua cyuosuroides 6i)

80. Spartiua patons 66

81. Spartiua stricta maritima 67

82. Spinifex birsutus 68

83. .Sporobolus airoides 69

84. Sporobolus iudicus 69

85. Sporobolus wrigbtii 70

86. Stcnotaphrum dimidiatuni 71

87. Stipa viridula 72

88. Tripsacum dactyloides 73

89. Uniola latiiolia 74

90. Zizauia aquatica 75

91. Zoysia pungens 76

ECONOMIC GRASSES.

DESCRIPTIONS.

No. 1. Agropyron caninum (L.) R. & S. Bearded Wheat-grass.

A fibrous-rooted, rather slender, upright perennial, 2 to 3 feet high, with bearded,
nodding heads or spikes resembling sleuder heads of wheat. This grass is more
or less frequent in the northern parts of the United States, ranging from Maine
westward to the Dakotas. Bearded Wheat-grass is closely related to the more
common and better known Couch-grass (A. repens), but differs markedly from
that species in having no creeping rootstocks, and in the longer beards or uwns
to the spikelets. No attempts have been made to introduce this grass into gen-
eral cultivation, but its habit of growth and other characters indicate that it
may possess considerable agricultural value. It is readily propagated by seeds,
which- may be easily gathered.

No. 2. Agropyron divergens Nees. Wire Bunch-grass.

A slender, usually densely tufted perennial, 1 to 2 feet high or more, with very nar-
row, spreading leaves, and bearded or beardless spikes. The beards or awns,
when present, are widely spreading or divergent. This grass is common in the
Eocky Mountain and Pacific Slope regions, extending westward to the coast. On
rich lands it often grows to the height of 3 feet, but upon the dry bench lauds it
rarely exceeds a foot or 18 inches in height. On dry lands the stems become
wiry with age, and are avoided by stock; but the grass is considered valuable
by the ranchmen for winter grazing. Samples of this grass received from some
points in the West, particularly from Washington, indicate that it possesses
much agricultural value when grown upon good soil, and as it will thrive in
the semiarid regions of the Northwest, its cultivation may prove desirable,,
Propagated readily by seed, which can be easily gathered.

No. 3. Agropyron pseudorepens Scribn. & Smith. Western Couch-grass.

A perennial, with creeping rootstocks, abundant in the northern prairie States, pro-
ducing tall and leafy stems, which resemble those of Couch-grass, but are less
wiry. This is less plentiful in the semiarid belt than the Western Wheat-grass
or Colorado Blue-stem, but is better adapted for cultivation as a hay grass
because of its softer stems and leaves. It is one of the most promising native
species.

No. 4. Agropyron repens (L.) Beauv. Couch-grass. (Fig. 1.)
A grass abundant everywhere in the Eastern and Middle States, growing in the open
fields, and in mauy places it has become one of the worst of Aveeds. Ofteu the
chief labor in managing hoed crops consists in subduing this pest. When once
established, it is hardly less difficult to eradicate than the well-known .Johnson-
grass of the Southern States. It is, however, a valuable hay grass, and for two
or three years the yield is large, but, like the Western Blue-stem, it "binds
itself out," and the sod requires breaking in order to -restore the yield. It is an

7

8

excellent grass for bindiug railroad and other embankments subject to wash, and
can be recommeudetl for this purpose. The roots are well known in medicine
under the name of iiafZi\r </ra»(iHi'8. The simple infusion is used as a diuretic.
Propagated by "root cuttings" or by seed.

No. 5. Agropyronspicatum (Pursh) Scribn. & Smith.
Western Wlieat-grass.

A grass closely resembling the Couch-grass of the
Eastern States, and by some regarded as ouly a
variety of it. It has the same strong and exten-
sively creeping rootstocks, and the foliage and
spikes are very similar, but the whole plant usually
has a bluish color, whence the common name " Blue-
stem," most frequently applied to it in the West.
It grows naturally on the dry bench lands and
river bottoms; and, although the yield per acre is
not large, the quality of the hay is unsurpassed by
any other species of the region where it grows. In
Montana and the neighboring States it furnishes a
considerable amount of native hay, and is there
regarded as one of the most important of the native
forage plants. After three or four successive an-
nual cuttings, the yield diminishes very much, but
the grass is " brought iip "
by letting it stand a year
or two, or by dragging
over the sod a sharp-
toothed harrow, thus
breaking the roots into
small pieces, every frag-
ment of which makes a
new plant. This grass is
quite distinct from the
"Blue-stem" grasses of
Nebraska, which are
specieaof An(lro2)ogon (A. proviricialis). There are a num-
ber of other species of Agropyron or wheat-grasses in
the Rocky M ountains, some of which are evidently excel-
lent hay grasses and well deserve the attention of the
agriculturist.

Fig. 1— Couch-grass (Agropyron
re'pens) .

No. 6. Agropyron tenerum Vasey. Slender Wheat-grass.

A perennial bunch grass growing in the northern prairie
region from Nebraska to Montana and Manitoba. Seed
of this grass is now on the market, its sterling quali-
ties for hay having long been recognized liy North-
western farmers. It pioduces an abundance of soil,
leafy stems and root leaves, and ripens a large amount
of seed that is easily gathered — two of the chief requi-
sites of a good hay grass. This grass is well adapted
for cultivation, and the area devoted to it is deservedly
increasing each year.

fe«*

Fin.

2. -Redtop
alba).

(AfjrosHs

No. 7. Agrostis alba Linn. Redtoj) or Herd's-grass.

Under the botanical name of Agrostis aUm are included a number of varieties, some
of which have received distinct Latin names; as, for example, Agrostis vulgaris

and Agrostis stoJonifera, and many English or local names; that most generally
applied in the Middle and Eastern States being Herd's-grass, and in the South
and West, Eedtop. The great variability of this grass has led to much diversity
of opinion in regard to its value. The taller forms are largely cultivated for
hay, being usually mixed with timothy and clover. This grass requires con-
siderable moisture in the soil, and is one of the best for permanent pastures in
the New England and Middle States. It makes a very resistant and leafy turf,
which well withstands the trampling of stock. It grows well, also, as far
south as Tennessee. Among the forms of low growth are two varieties which
are unsurpassed, either in fineness or richness of color, for making lawns.

No. 8. Agrostis asperifolia Trin. Rough-leafed Bent.

This grass is common in the Rocky Mountain regions and on the Pacific Slope, grow-
ing chiefiy in the mountain parks and along water courses. Its slender leafy
culms are 2 to 3 feet high, and the narrow, pale-green, and densely flowered
panicles 4 to 6 inches long. Judging from the appearance of this grass, it is
likely to prove, under cultivation, superior to the Herd's-grass or Redtop of the
East, at least for hay.

No. 9. Agrostis canina Linn. Rhode Island Bent.

This species of bent has been introduced into this country from Europe, and is
cultivated to some extent in the Eastern States. It resembles Herd's-grass (Red-
top) somewhat, but has shorter and narrower leaves. It makes a close sod,
and is considered valuable for permanent meadows and pastures. It is one of
the best grasses for lawns, and for this purpose should be sown at the rate
of 3 to 4 bushels per acre. Retail price of seed quoted in New York catalogues,
$2.75 per bushel.

No. 10. Agrostis coarctata (Reichb.) Ehrh. Sea-coast Bent.

A creeping perennial with slender culms, the upright branches 1 foot high, short and
narrow flat leaves, and densely flowered panicles 2 to 4 inches long. It grows
in damp soils and sands along the sea coast from Newfoundland to New Jersey,
often occurring where constantly drenched by the flying salt spray. It is a fine-
leafed, excellent turf-forming species, valuable for lawns. A similar if not
identical species is common in western Oregon and Washington.

No. 11. Agrostis exarata Trin. Northern Redtop.

The grass upon which this species was founded is a native of Alaska, but a number
of forms which occur in the Rocky Mountain regions and on the I'acific Slope
have been referred to it. Some of these have been characterized as distinct
species, and there are several among them which, from their tall, leafy habit
and vigorous growth, indicate the possession of considerable agricultural value,
although none of them have as yet been introduced into cultivation. They are
deserving of the attention of the agriculturist, and their culture is recommended,
particularly on the Pacific Slope. They would doubtless thrive in the Eastern
and Middle States, and possibly supplant, by their greater luxuriance and better
qualities, some of the species now cultivated.

No. 12. Agrostis scabra Willd. Rough Beut.

A slender, erect, tufted annual, with numerous very narrow basal leaves, and deli-
cate, widely spreading capillary panicles, which at maturity break away from
the culm, and are blown about by the wind, hence one of the common names,
"fly-away-grass." Before the panicle has fully expanded, this grass is some-
times gathered and sold under the name of "silk-grass " for dry bou(iuets. It is
widely distributed throughout the United States, but is of little or no agricul-
tural value. In irrigated meadows of the Northwest this species, or a form of
it, is occasionally sufflcieutly abundant to furnish a large amount of hay which
is regarded of good quality.

10

No. 13. Agrostis stolonifera Linn. Creeping Bent.

By some regarded as only a variety of Agrostis alba, with long, prostrate or creeping
stems, well adapted for sandy pastures near the coast, and useful, perhaps, for
binding shifting sands or river banks subject to wash or overflow. It makes a
good pasture grass for low lands, especially for those which are somewhat sandy,
and produces a fine and enduring turf for lawns, for which is is especially well
adapted. It is not a productive hay grass, although it has a record of yielding
on rich, peaty soil 7,742 pounds of hay and 2,722 pounds of green aftermath per
acre. If sown alone, sow at the rate of 2 bushels per acre, or for lawns 3 bush-
els. Current retail price in Xew York, $3.50 per bushel.

No. 14. Agrostis vulgaris With. Herd'e-grass ; Redtop.

This is little more than a variety of Agrostis alba, already noted. It is quoted in the

seed catalogues as a distinct species, and is
recommended for mixtures designed for
permanent pastures or meadows. It suc-
ceeds as far south as Tennessee, and is often
sown with timothy and red clover. Retail
price of seed. New York market, $1 to if 1,50
per bushel.

No. 15. AlopecurusgeniculatusLinn. Water
Foxtail. (Fig. 3.)

A low, usually procumbent grass, with slender
stems 8 to 18 inches long, often rooting at
the lower joints. It usually grows in wet
places, and is very widely distributed
throughout the north temperate zone. It
has cylindrical heads or panicles, resem-
bling those of Meadow Foxtail, but much
smaller. This grass enters into the natural
herbage of low, wet meadows and pas-
tures, and in such places affords excellent
grazing, being tender and nutritious.
Alopecurus fulvtis is simply a variety of
this, with short-awned flowering glumes.
Under favorable circumstances this grass
makes a good turf and a pleasing lawn of
a deep rich green color, remaining green
throughout the severe winter weather of

■c^^ o -ITT- * T> i 1 ,.7 the Middle States.

Fig. 3.— Water Foxtail (Alopecnnts

genieulatus). No. 16. Alopecurus occidentalis 8cribn.

Mountain Foxtail.

A grass of the mountain meadows of the Rocky Mountains, growing in rich soil
along streams and in the open parks. It lias slender, erect stems 2 to 3 feet
high, with short, oblong heads, thicker and shorter than those of common
Meadow Foxtail. This grass is occasionally found covering extensive areas to
the exclusion of other s])ecies. It yields a large bulk of tine, long, bright-
colored hay, which is highly valued where it can bo obtained. For the more
elevated meadows of the Rocky Mountain region, and doubtless also for the
New Knglaud and North Midfllo States, this grass would form an excellent
addition to the cultivated species, and its introduction is recommended.

No. 17. Alopecurus pratensis Linn. Meadow Foxtail. (Fig. 4.)

This well-known European grass has been introduced into this country and culti-
vated to some extent in the New England and Middle States. It is a valuable
grass for moist meadows and pastures, particularly the latter, on account of its

Bui. 14, Div. of Agrostology.

Plate i.

Fig. 1.- Planting Beach Grass in Sand near Provincetown. Mass.

Fig. 2.— Kafir Corn in Grass Garden of the U. S. Department of Agriculture.

11

early growth, being one of the earliest of the cnltivated grasses. It is very
hardy, and on good soil yields a large amount of excellent forage. In Europe
it is regarded as one of the best perennial pasture grasses. It should enter into
all mixtures for permanent pastures, because it is very last-
ing, highly nutritious, and earlier than most other species.
This grass has a record of producing 20,418 pounds per acre
of green grass, 6,125 pounds of hay, and 8,167 pounds of
aftermath. It is never sown by itself, but is always mixed
with other grasses and forage jjlants, because it gives a
full yield only in the second or third year. Average number
of seeds in a pound, 907,000. Price of seed quoted in New
York catalogues, $2.30 per bushel, or $32 per 100 pounds.

No. 18. Animophila arenaria (Linn.) Link. Beach-grass.

(Fig. 5.)
This grass grows more or less abundantly along tiie sandy coasts

of the Atlantic and the shores

of the Great Lakes. It has

strong, creeping rootstocks,

upright stems 2 to 4 feet high,

and long, rather rigid leaves.

The narrow, densely flowered

panicles which terminate the

stems are from 3 to 10 inches

long. It is one of the most

valuable grasses adapted to

binding the drifting sands of

our coasts, and has been culti-
vated for this purpose in this

as well as in other countries.

The action of this grass in hold-
ing the drifting sands is like

that of brush or bushes cut and

laid upon the ground in accu-
mulating snow when drifted by the wind. The sand
collects around the clumps of grass, and as it accu-
mulates, the grass grows up and overtops it, and will
so continue to grow, no matter how high the sand
hill may rise. This process goes on over the whole
surface of the plantation, and thus many acres may
be raised far above theirorigiual level. A plant will,
by gradual growth upwards, finally form stems and
roots sanded in to the depth of fully 100 feet.
Beach-grass is best propagated l)y transplanting
(PI. I, fig. 1). The grass is pulled by hand and
planted 1 to 2 feet apart, according to the slope,
by forcing a long spade or shovel into the sand,
which is then carried forward, making an opening
into which the roots are thrust, the spade then
being withdrawn and the sand pressed close about
them. The planting may be done either in the
spring or fall, i:»referably in the fall. When projia-

gation is by seed, the sowing should bo done early in the spring and brush laid
over the ground for holding the sand and seed temporarily in place. Beach-
grass has been used for the manufacture of coarse paper, and it makes an excel-
lent and very durable thatch. It is of no value for fodder.

FiQ. 4.— Meadow Fox-
tail (Alopecurus pra-
tensis).

Fig. 5. — Beacli-grasa
phila arenaria) : a.

(Amnio-
base of

culm; 6, inflorescence; cjijcule.

12

No. 19. Andropogon contortus Linn. Twisted Beard-grass.

A stout, leafy perennial, 1 to 3 feet high, aftording excellent grazing when young,
but the mature seeds are much dreaded by sheep owners, as by their peculiar
structure tbey not only become attached to and injure the wool, but ofteu pene-
trate the skin and even the intestines of these animals. The strong rhizomes and
tough fibrous roots which this grass has, commend it as a soil binder for river
lianks, dams, etc. The awns indicate by their twisting the amount of moisture
in the air, and may be used as rain or fair weather indicators. In India this grass
is used for thatching. It is a native of tropical and subtropical regions of both
liemispheres, extending northward into we.stt'rn Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona.

No. 20. Andropogon glonieratus
(Walt.j B. S. r. Brook-grass.

A stout perennial, 2 to 4 feet high,
with dense, more or less elon-

^^:

Fig. 6. — Johnson-gras-s {Andropogon hale- Fig. 7. — Bushy Hlue-stem (Andropogon nutans) : a to/,
pensis). details of the spikelet.

gated, broom-like panicles. It grows in low grounds and marshes from southern
New York to Florida, also occurring in Mexico and Lower California. This
species is esteemed a valuable pasture grass in the .South. Its stems and
leaves when young, are ten<ler and Juicy and are relished by stock of all kinds.
Later the stems become tough and woody and are of less value.

No. 21. Andropogon halepensis (L.) Brot. .Johnson-grass. (Fig. 6.)
A stout perennial, with smooth, erect culms, 3 to 6 feet high, and strong, creeping
rootstocks. The panicles are expanded during ilowering and are from 6 to 12
inches long. It is a native of southern Ilurdjie and the warmer parts of Asia and
north<Tii Africa. It was introduced into this country about sixty years ago, and
has now become widely distributed ami well known throughout the Southern

13

states. In the warmer parts of tlie Southern States it makes rapid growth, is
but little affected by drought, and the hay, if cut just as the grass is coming
into bloom, is much liked by all kinds of stock. Two or three cuttings may be
made during the season. The extensively creeping rootstocks are fleshy and
tender, and hogs are very fond of them. These roots literally fill the ground near
the surface, and every joint is capable of developing a new stem. This grass,
when once it has become established, is exceedingly difiiicult to eradicate, and
hence has come to be greatly feared by the majority of farmers. Unless one
wishes to give up his laud entirely to Johnson-grass, and can certainly prevent
its spreading to the lands of others, its introduction would be of doubtful econ-
omy, owing to its powerful and
rapidly spreading roots. In
India the natives make rude
writing pens from the stems.

No. 22. Andropogon hallii Hack.
Turkey-foot.

This is a stout grass, from 3 to 6
feet high, closely related to
the Big Blue-stem (Andropogon
provincialis) , but appears to be
confined to the sandy regions
of the West. It is a good sand
binder and is common in the
sand hills of Nebraska, and
extends southward into Texas.
Its agricultural value is not
known, but although more
woody, it is probably nearly
as valuable as Big Blue-stem.

No. 23. Andropogon nutans

Linn. Bushy Blue-stem. (Fig. 7.)

This is a stout perennial, 4 to 6 feet
high, growing in dry soil along
the borders of fields and open
woods, and on the prairies of
the West it often forms a large
proijortion of the so-called
prairie hay. It is held in little
esteem in the Eastern and
Southern States, but in the
West it is said to make excel-
lent hay, and is particularly
valuable because of the rela-
tively large amount of long

root-leaves which it produces. All stock eat it greedily. In South Dakota it
is given the first place among the native grasses as a hay-producing species,
thriving best on the rich prairie bottoms. During the dry season it produces
but little seed, though it usually makes a good growth of root leaves. In the
middle Atlantic States this grass seeds, freely and the seeds are easily collected.

No. 24. Andropogon provincialis Lam. Big Blue-stem. (Fig. 8.)

A stout perennial, with erect, more or less branching, and often bluish or glaucous

stems, 2 to 6 feet high, long leaves, and flowers in short spikes, which stand two

to five close together at the apex of the stem or its branches. These spikes are

bluish or purple, sometimes pale green, and more or less hairy. This grass has

Fig. 8. — Big Blue-stem (Andropogon provincialis) :
g, details of the spikelet.

a to

14

a wide range, extendiug over the United States east of the Rocky Mountains,
and in the West and Northwest, particularly in the Missouri region, it is very
abundant, and is highly valued for hay. It grows in a great variety of soils,
and under extremely varying conditions of climate, and enters largely into the
composition of the hay of the prairies. The early growth consists of a great
adundance of long leaves, and if cut in early bloom the hay is readily eaten by
horses and cattle, but if allowed to fully mature the stems become hard and
woody and the hay produced is of inferior quality. Investigations of the seed
production of this Andropofjon indicate that it matures seed rarely. It is stated
that a very favorable season of moisture is required to make it fruit abun-
dantly. This lack of fertility, if really true, will be a serious obstacle to the
general propagation of the grass by the usual and convenient method of seeding.

No. 25. Andropogon saccharoides Swz. Feather Sedge-grass.

A variable grass, growing to the height of 1 to 3 feet, with nar-
row, silvery-bearded panicles. Some forms of this species
have been introduced into cultivation for ornament. It is a
native of our Southwestern States and Temtories, in some
of its varieties extending southward to Chile, where it is re-
garded as one of the best pasture grasses of the Cordilleras.

No. 26. Andropogon scoparius Michx. Little Blue-stem.
(Fig. 9.)

A rather slender perennial, 1 to 3 feet high, more or less branched
above; the slender racemes are single and terminate the
culm or its branches. This grass has a similar range to the
Big Blue-stem, extending over nearly all of the United States
east of the Rocky Mountains, and in the prairie regions it is
nearly always found associated more or less abundantly
with the Big Blue-stem and Bushy Blue stem. It is common
in the mountain districts of the South, and is valued there
for grazing. In the West it is cut for hay, but is not so
much thought of as the Big Blue-stem. In South Dakota
this is one of the most common grasses in the basins of the
Bad Lands.

No. 27. Andropogon sorghum sativus Hack. Includes the

cultivated varieties of sorghum.
Andropogon sorghum includes many varieties, a number of
which have been recognized by some authors as distinct
botanical species under the genus Sornhum; others, includ-
ing Hackel, have referred them all to the genus Andropogon.
Ilackel has elaborately worked out the botanical characters
of the species and characterized the known varieties, giving
to each a technical name. It is not necessary here to follow
out his classification, which is apparently good. In the works of others there
is much confusion in the botanical classification, and still more in the applica-
tion of the common or English names. The same name has been applied to
different varieties and the same variety has often been designated under various
names. All the forms are of Eastern origin, and have arisen pri)I»ably from a
comniun stock tinough ages of cultivation. From varieties of this species are
obtained grain, which furnishes nutritious food for man and domestic animals,
l)aiticularly poultry. Sirup and sugar in commercial quantities are obtained
from the saccharine varieties. The variety xacvharainx, or Chinese sugar-grass,
yields about 13 per cent of sugar. Hrooms and brashes, tised in all civilized
countries, are made from the indorcscence of the variety known as broom corn,
and all furnish fodder of more or less value for farm stock. In Africa alcoholic

I

V

Fia. 9.— Little Blue,
stem (Andropogon
scoparius) .

15

drinks are prepared from the grains, and useful coloring pigments are con-
tained in the fruiting glumes. The variety known as Katir corn (PI. I, fig. 2),
Avhich grows to the height of 4 or 6 feet, has been cultivated with great succeBS
as a fodder plant in the semiarid regions of the West. In fact, all tlie sorghums
will grow in drier climates or under more trying conditions of drought than
Indian corn. They may be cultivated in much the same way as that cereal,
but the seed may be planted more thickly. In chicken corn or white
Egyptian corn (var. cernnnm) the densely flowered panicle is abruptly bent
or recurved, so that it jioints downward. This variety is largely cultivated in
tropical and northern Africa and in some parts of southern Asia, where it is
used as a cereal. It is occasionally grown in this coun-
try, the seed being prized as food for poultry. The vari-
eties adapted for the production of fodder or silage are
particularly valuable for cultivation in the South and
Southwest. The amount of fodder produced is often
very large, of excellent quality, and there are few among
the larger grasses better adapted for soiling. Yellow
Milo Maize, White Milo Maize, and Jerusalem Corn, non-
saccharine varieties of Andropoyon sorghum, are grown
both for fodder and for the seed, particularly in the
Southwestern States.

No. 28. Andropogon squarrosus. Linn. fil. Vetivert.

A stout perennial, 4 to 6 feet high, with strong, fibrous, and
highly fragrant roots. A native of India, occurring also
in some of the West India Islands and Brazil, growing
in marshes and on river banks. Introduced into Loui-
siana many years ago, and now spontaneous in some of
the lower parts of that State. Cultivated successfully
at Knoxville, Tenn., where the fragrance of the rhizomes
and roots was developed to a marked degree, but the
plants did not bloom. In India this grass is largely used
for thatching, and is woven into mats, which serve as
screens or shades for doors and windows (tatties), awn-
ings, covers for palanquins, and fans, and brushes used
by weavers in arranging the thread of the web are made
from cither the roots or the whole plant. The roots, laid
among clothing, impart a pleasing fragrance to the gar-
ments and are said to keep them free from insects. Fans
made from the root fibers wei"e among the articles on sale
at the World's Fair in the Javanese bazaar. The roots
are an article of commerce sold by druggists. In Euro-
pean drug stores the roots are known as Badix anatheri or Eadix vetiverice , a stim-
ulant or antiseptic. They yield a perfume known as vetivert, or, in India, itar.

No. 29. Andropogon virginicus Linn. Broom-sedge. (Fig. 10.)

A rigidly erect perennial, 2 to 4 feet high, bearing a narrow, elongated, and loosely-
branched panicle of silky-bearded racemes. The stems are strongly flattened
near the base, and at maturity they are too hard and woody to be eaten by stock
or to be of any value for hay. When young, however, this grass affords most
excellent grazing. Milch cows fed upon it are said to yield butter of superior
quality. There is probably no native grass better known to the farmers of the
South than this, and although possessing some value, as here indicated, it is,
broadly speaking, one of the worst weeds of that section, interfering seriously
with the formation of permanent meadows. Constant tillage or very close graz-
ing appears to be the only means of keeping this grass from occupying the land.

Fig. 10. — Broom Sedge
(Andropogon virgini-
cus).

16

No. 30. AntLoxanthum odoratum Linn. Sweet Vernal-grass. (Fig. 11.)
A perennial, early-flowering, sweet-scented grass, introdnced into this country from
Europe, and now widely distributed over the Eastern and Central States. It is
an inferior fodder grass, but owing to its earliness it possesses some value in
mixtures for pastures, and its sweet scent adds a pleasing fragrance to hay, of
which it should form only a small percentage. The leaves have a bitter taste,
and the grass is apparently unpalatable to stock, for they will not readily eat
it. It is regarded as a serious pest in New Zealand. The stems have been used

in the manufacture of imitation Leg-
horn hats. Average number of grains
in 1 pound of pure seed, 924,000.
Price of seed quoted in New York
it% catalogues, $6 per bushel. Weight

per bushel, about 10 pounds.

No. 31. Aristida fasciculata Torr.
Needle-grass. (Fig. 12.)

ISeedle-grass grows from 6 inches to a foot
high, and is a native of the arid re-
gions, from Montana southward to
Texas, where it is particularly abun-
dant in poor soils, and presents a great
variety of forms. It is usually found
in dry, gravelly soils on the plains,
mesas, and foothills. In the Eastern
and Middle States the species of Aris-
tida are deemed of little or no value,
but in the Southwest, where every
mouthful of fodder of any sort has
value, they are not wholly worthless.
Aristida schiedeana and A. hromoides,
growing upon rocky and desert soil in
Arizona and New Mexico, supply in
their thin, scattered tufts ''dainty
bits seized upon by stock with avid-
ity." (Priugle.)

No. 32. Aristida stricta Michx. Wire-
grass.

This is one of the "wire-grasses" of the
Southern States, growing to the height
of 2 or 3 feet. The simple stems are ter-
minated by a narrow panicle, usually a
foot in length. It is common along dry,
sandy ridges and in the pine barrens.

Fia. 11.— Sweet Vernal-grass (Anthoxanthiim
odoratum): a, spikclet; b, llorot; c, audro-
gynecium.

No. 33. Arrhenatherum elatius (L.) M. & K. Tall Oat-grass. (Fig. 13.)
A loosely tufted perennial, 2 to 4 feet high, introduced from Europe as a fodder grass
and now quite generally distributed over the regions east of the Mississippi. In
Etirope it is regarded as one of the best meadow grasses, but is not recommended
for pastures. It does well in the Southern States, where it is frequently culti-
vated, and is valued both for winter grazing and for hay. In California it is
spoken of in the highest terms, particularly for its drought-resisting (pialKies.
It does not form a very compact turf, and when sown sliould be mixed with
other grasses. It grows rapidly, blooms early, and when cut dries out readily.
It is not suited to heavy, moist soils, but thrives best on loamy sands or loams.
It produces a large yield, and on good soils three or four cuttings may be

17

obtained during the season. It is best sown in the spring, but in the Southern
States it may be! sown in September to advantage. In New Zealand this grass
is spoken of as fast becoming a weed in mixed pastures; and, further, it is stated
that the early growth is much relished by stock, but later in the season it is not
touched. On rich, clayey loam this grass has made a yield of 17,015 pounds of
green fodder, 6,380 pounds of hay, and 13,612 pounds of green aftermath per
acre. When sown alone, the amount of seed to sow per acre is 5 to 6 bushels.
Owing to the structure of the seed, it may be sown deeper than most other
grasses. Average number of grains in one pound of jjure seed, 1.59,000. Price of

seed, quoted from New York
catalogues, $3.2.5 per bushel,
or $18 per 100 pounds.

Fig. 12. — Needle-grass (Aristida fasciculata) : a, spikelet ;
6, indurated flowering glume, the awns cut oif.

Fig. 13.— Tall Oat-grasa (Arrhe-
natherum elatius).

No. 34. Arundinaria macrosperma Michx. Cane. (Fig. 11.)

This is the bamboo which forms the well-known canebrakes of the South. It is
perennial, with woody stems 10 to 30 feet high, and evergreen leaves, which
furnish a valuable supplement to the winter pastures. The plant blooms but
once, and when the seeds mature the cane dies. The canes are used for many
purposes, such as fishing rods, scaffolds for drying cotton, splints for baskets,
mats, etc. Attempts made to cultivate this grass have not been successful.

No. 35. Arundinaria tecta (Walt.) Muhl. Small Cane.

This is regarded by some as only a variety of the cane mentioned above, but it is of
smaller growth, rarely exceeding 10 feet in height, and extends as far north as
Maryland. It forms extensive "canebrakes" in many parts of the Southern
States, and its perennial leafage, together with the younger stems and branches,
supply forage for thousands of cattle duriug the winter season. This fodder,
4393— No. 14 2

18

however, does little more than sustain the life of the animals. It is of little or
no value for fattening cattle or for milch cows.
No. 36. Arundo donax Linn. Reed.

A tall, leafy perennial, attaining the height of 10 to 15 feet, or in very favorable
locations even 30 feet. The leaves are broad and widely spreading and the
stems are leafy to near the top. The panicle has some resemblance to that of
pampas grass, but is not so large. This grass is grown for lawn decoration and
to conceal unsightly objects. It is a native of southern Europe, northern Africa,

and western Asia, and is said
to be spontaneous along the
Kio Grande. In some coun-
tries the stout stems are used
for latlis and, when split, for
woven work ; the leaves are
used for thatch or rooting, and
the stout rhizomes are em-
ployed as a diuretic. A culti-
vated variety has its broad
leaves striped with longitudi-
nal white bauds. It presents
a very striking appearance.
This grass is propagated by
transplanting the roots, which
work may be done at any time
during the season. After
growth has fairly commenced
the subsetiuent development
is very rapid, and for this
reason it is one of the most
important plants of its class
for quickly producing scenic
effects or for concealing un-
sightly objects.

No. 37. Astrebla pectinata F. v.

Muell. Mitchell- grass.
A smooth, erect grass, 1^ to 3 feet
high, with flat, long-pointed
leaves and densely flowered
terminal spikes or heads. It
is a native of Australia, grow-
ing naturally upon the inte-
rior plains. It is regarded by
the stockmen of that country
as the best of all native
grasses, both for its drought-
enduring (lualitics and for its
fattening properties. If cut just when coming into bloom, it makes excellent
hay. The seed is produced in abundance, and is easily collected. This may
prove a valuable grass for the semiarid districts of the Southwest. The seeds
of this grass, as well as those of the closely related Astrebla triticoides, were
formerly used as food by the natives of Australia.
No. 38. Avena americana Scri1)n. American Oat-grass.

In the grassy parks and on tlie foothills of the eastern slopes of the Rocky Moun-
tains, tliis Arena, which closely resembles the A vena pratensis of Euroi)e, is fre-
quently found associated with the other native gra.sses. Where abundant it

Fia. 14.

-Cane (Arundinana inacrosperma)
b, paleaamllodii'ules; c, grain.

a, floret;

19

makes a valuable adflltion to the grazing resources of the country. It is deserv-
ing of a trial under cultivation.

No. 39. Avena fatua Linn. Wild-oats. (Fig. 15.)

An erect annual, 2 to 3 feet high, with loose, open panicles, 8 to 10 inches long, the
whole aspect of the plant closely resembling forms of the cultivated oat. The
spikelets are larger, however, and the flowering glumes are covered with long,
brown hairs, and have a twisted awn an inch in length. It is a native of the
Mediterranean region, but is now widely distributed over grain-growing coun-
tries, and with the closely related J. harhata Brot. is especially common in Cal-
ifornia and Oregon, and has spread eastward to Minnesota. It is of rare
occurrence in the Eastern States. By some this is supposed to be the original
of the cultivated oat {Avena sativa),
which is said to readily degenerate into
it. Avena fatua is in most places regarded
as a troublesome weed. When abundant
in the grain fields, it occupies the place
of better plants, and reduces the grade
of the thrashed grain by the admixture
of its inferior and lighter seeds. The stiff
and twisted awns are injurious to stock,
as they frequently cause irritation of the
nostrils and mouths of the cattle feeding
upon them. In California the young
plants, before the bearded or awned spike-
lets mature, are esteemed for grazing and
forage. ' 'The use of the Wild-oat, with its
brown, hairy seed and twisted awn, as an
artificial fly by fishermen, is well known,
the uncoiling of the awn when wetted
causing those contortions by which it
imitates a fly in trouble." (Hooker.) A
form of the Wild-oat with the flowering
glume smooth (var. (jlahreacens Coss.) is
quite widely distributed on the Pacific
Slope, where it has become a most trouble-
some weed in wheat fields.

No. 40. Avena pubescens Linn. Downy
Oat- grass.

This grass is similar in habit and appearance
to Avena fatua, but is much less com-
mon. It is a European grass, and has thence been introduced into this country.
It is occasionally found in the grain region of the Pacific Slope. The soils best
suited to the growth of this grass are sandy loams, upon which it is valuable
for early mowing and pasturage Under favorable conditions it has produced
15,654 pounds of green fodder, or 5,870 pounds of hay, aud 6,860 pouudo of after-
math per acre.

No. 41. Avena sativa Linn. Oats.

A well-known erect annual, 2 to 4 feet high, with flat leaves and expanded panicles
of rather large pendulous spikelets. There are many varieties, which have been
divided into two classes, "panicleoats" with widely spreadiugpanicle branches;
and "banner oats" with the panicles somewhat contracted and one-sided.
These two races are divided into "chafiy" and ''naked-fruited" sorts; further
varieties are established upon the color, form, or some special character of the
grain. Oats have been cultivated from very early times in Europe, and they

Fig. 15.— "Wild Oats (Avena fatua).

20

form the princii>al grain of such nortliern countries as Norway and Sweden, and
Scotland, and in these countries boiled oatmeal and oatmeal cakes are impor-
tant articles of food. Boiled oatmeal is also much used in this country, espe-
cially at breakfast. The grain, however, is principally cultivated here as food
for horses. In the Southern States, oats, particularly winter oats, are largely
grown for forage. Sown in August, they furnish the best grazing from Octo-
ber to the latter part of April, and will then yield a more certain and a larger
crop of grain than spring-sown oats. They are often cut green for soiling and
for hay. Oat hay is quite extensively used in the South and in California. The
practice is to cut when the grain is in the "dough" stage, or when the straw
commences to turn yellow below the head and the leaves are still green. The
yield ranges from 3 to 4i tons ]ier acre, according to the variety and the season.
The feeding value of oat hay is higher than that of timothy, containing about
8.8 percent of crude protein, and 55 to 65 percent of fat formers, while the latter
(timothy) contains from 5 to 7 per cent crude protein, and 45 to 55 per cent
fat former.s. Among the cereals, oats are the most nutritious, but oaten flour
lacks the gluten of wheat, rendering the making of bread from it impossible.
Oatmeal is richer in nitrogenous matter than soft wheats, and contains more fat
than any of the other grains. Russian " quas" beer is made from oats.

No. 42. Aveua sterilis L. Auimated Oats.

A stout, oat-like grass, with one-sided panicles, and very large, awnedspikelets ; the
awn is very long, twisted, and "kneed" or geniculate. It is the twisting and
untwisting of these awns when exposed to changes of moisture and dryness that
has given to this grass the common name of "animated oats." The untwisting
or coiling-ui> of the awn causes the spikelcts to tumble about iu various directions,
suggestive of independent motion or life-like activity.

No. 43. Bambusa. Bamboo.

The bamboos belong to the Bambusew, a tribe of grasses numbering about 175 species,
chiefly limited to South America, southern and eastern Asia, and the East Indies.
There are no European species, and only two in North America (see Arundmaria).
Of the whole number of species only one is common to both hemispheres. The
largest bamboos attain a height of 120 feet, with a diameter of a foot or more.
A Soutb American species has leaves 3 to 12 inches wide and 5 to 15 feet long.
In India are extensive bamboo forests, and in countries where these grasses
abound they are employed for many purposes. They furnish material for the
complete construction and furnishing (including domestic utensils) of houses.
They are used in shipbuilding and in the construction of bridges. Buckets,
])itcher8, flasks, and cups are made from sections of the stems. Baskets, l)oxe8,
fans, hats, and jackets are made from split l)amboo. Ropes and Chinese paper
are made from these grasses. A Chinese umbrella consists of bamboo paper,
with a bamboo handle and split bamboo for a frame. The leaves are used for
packing, filling beds, etc., and occasionally servo as fodder for stock. The
young shoots serve as a vegetable. Tabashir, or bamboo manna, a silicious
and crystalline substance which occurs in the hollow stems of some bamboos, is
regarded as jiossessing jnedicinal properties. Good drinking water collects in
quantities in the hollows of the intornodes of nuiny of the; bnger bamboos. All
sorts of agricultural implements, appliances for spinning cotton and wool or for
reeling silk, are often constructed entirely from bamboo. Very many articles
of household use or decoration made from bamboo have become articles of com
mcrco in Europe and this country. So numy and varied are the uses of the
several species of bamboo, that it is possible to mention litre only a small part
of them. B;imbooH .-ire ]>ropagated by seed, but more often b.\' cuttings. I'lante
from the seed do not attain a sufficient growth to admit cropping under 10 or 12
years.

21

No. 44. Beckmannia eriicaeformis (L.) Host. Slough-grass. (Fig. 16.)
A stout, erect, subaquatic perennial, 1 to 4 feet high, with narrow, densely flowered
panicles. The leaves are broad and flat, and the stems are coarse but tender,
becoming somewhat woody when old. It grows along the banks of streams and
rivers and frequently follows the course of the irrigating
ditches. When young, however, this grass is palatable
and readily eaten by stock. In some portions of the North-
west, to which region this grass is confined in this country,
it often occurs in such quantities as to constitute an import-
ant part of the forage of low pasture lands. It may be recog-
nized by the peculiar, spike-like branches of the panicle,
which have some resemblance to the rattles of a rattle-
snake, and for this reason it is sometimes called " Rattle-
snake-grass." It-is deserving of trial under cultivation for
low meadow lands in the more Northern States, and is
especially adapted to irrigated alkaline lands.

No. 45. Bouteloua curtipeudula (Ms.) Torr. Side Oats.

(Fig. 17.)

This is among the tallest of our species of Bouteloua, the rather

stout, tufted stems being from 1 to 3 feet high. It has

tough, perennial, fibrous roots, flat, long-pointed leaves,

and many short spikes arranged along tlie upper portion

of the stem. Its range extends
from New Jersey westward to
the Rocky Mountains and south-
ward through Texas into Mexico.
Where abundant, it is said to
make fair hay, and the numerous
root leaves afi'ord good pastur-
age. The hay is readily eaten
by stock, but on the range cattle
show a decided preference for
Blue Grama. Several species of
Grama have been successfully

grown in small cultures at some of the experiment
stations, but none of them, although apparently most
valuable as pasture grasses for the semiarid regions,
have been introduced into general cultivation.

No. 46. Bouteloua eriopoda Torr. Black Grama.

This is one of the species of Grama so valuable for grazing
in New Mexico and Texas. The slender stems are 1 to
2 feet high, and from its thrifty habit of growth it
forms dense and excellent pasturage wherever it
grows abundantly. It is a common grass along the
Rio Grande and in the region between the Pecos and
the Gila; also in the Olympia, Guadalupe, and Eagle
mountains, and on the Staked Plains in Texas. The
woolly-jointed stems at once serve to distinguish this
from the allied species of Bouteloua.

Fig. 16.— Slough-grass
{Beckmannia erucce-
formis).

Fig. 17. — Side Oats (Boute
loua curtipendula) .

Blue, or

No. 47. Bouteloua oligostachya (Nutt.) Torr.
White Grama. (Fig. 18.)
This is one of the most abundant and most valued of the Grama grasses, and extends
from Wisconsin we.stward to California, and southward into Texas and northern
Mexico. It is a perennial, 6 to 18 inches high, its strong rhizomes and numerous

22

root-leaves forming dense and more or less extensive patches of excellent tnrf.
In Montana it is known as Buffalo-grass. It frequents the bench lands of that
State, growing at elevations of from 3,000 to 4,000 or 5,000 feet, and not infre-
quently covers wide areas. No other grass better withstands the tramping of
stock, and it is unsurpassed for grazing purposes. In the early days in the
Southwest it formed a large proportion of the hay delivered at the various mili-
tary posts and stage stations, and was considered the best ol)tainable there.
Like the true Buffalo-grass, it cures during the dry season in the turf into perfect
hay, losing none of its nutritious properties.

No. 48. Bouteloua polystachya Torr. Low Grama.

This is a small, slender grass, of good quality. It is one of the smallest of the
Gramas, and only occurs sparingly here and there in scattered tufts. It rarely

exceeds 6 inches in height, and is confined to the
arid regions of the Southwest.

No. 49. Bouteloua repens (HBK.) Scribn. Creep-
ing Grama.

A common grass in the vicinity of Acapulco, Mexico,
where, according to Dr. E. Palmer, it occurs on
the highest mountains aud down their stony
slopes to the water's edge. Greedily eaten by
stock.

No. 50. Bouteloua texana Watson. (Seed Mesquit.)

This is a small but excellent grass, common about San

Antonio and at other points in. Texas, chiefly along

the Rio Grande. It is recognized as an important

grass in the stock ranges.

No. 51. Brachypodium japouicum Miq. Japanese
Wheat-grass.

A promising Japanese perennial, closely resembling
Bearded Wheat-grass (Agropyron caninum), but of
rather stronger growth. It was introduced into
California by the Agricultural Experiment Station
of the Uuiveisity of California, at Berkeley, from
New Zealand, in 1886, and the first seed was dis-
tributed in California in 1889. It has been culti-
vated with success at a number of points iu Cali-
fornia and at several of the experiment staf ions in
the East. In the Southern States it is regarded as
a valuable grass for winter grazing, as it makes
its best growth during the cooler months.

Small Quaking-grass. (Fig. 19.)
An erect perennial, from 1 to 2 feet high, introduced into this country from Europe
because of its pleasing oniamoutal aitpearanee. It has escaped from cultivation
in many places, and has become sparingly naturalized. It is occasionally culti-
vated for ornament; the nodding panicles of rather showy spikelets arc used
for winter bonciuets. It is but little known here, but is classed as a valuable
meadow grass in Middle Eurojte and is recommended as an admixture for pas-
tures on dry, thin soils. liriza minor is a smaller and more delicate annual
species, also cnltivated occasionally as an ornamental and for dry boui|uet8.
liriza viarima, also an annual, is a larger ornamental species.

No. 53. Bromus ciliatus l,inn. Swamp Chess.

A native perennial of wide range, frequent in ojxmi woodlands, growing to the height
of 3 to 5 feet. It is leafy to the toj). and would doubtless make a hay grass of

Fig. 18. — Blue, or White Grama

{Bouteloua oligostachya) .

No. 52. Briza media Linn.

I

23

good appearance, althougli of somewhat inferior quality. No attempts have
been made to cultivate it for agricultural pui'poses. It makes a vigorous early
growth on good soils and is recommended for propagation in wooded parks and
woodland pastures.

No. 54. Bromus inermis Leyss. Smooth Brome-grass. (Fig. 20.)
An erect perennial, 2 to 5 feet high, with strong creeping rootstocks, and a loose open
panicle, 4 to 6 inches long. A native of Europe introduced into this country by
the Agricultural Experiment Station of the University of California about 1880,
which gives considerable promise of value both for haj^ and pasturage. It is
strongly stolon if erous, and quickly makes a thick, firm turf. It appears to
grow with equal vigor in Canada and in Tennessee, remaining green through-
out the winter season in the latter State. The strong perennial character of

Fig. 19. — Small Quaking-grass (Briza
media).

Fig. 20. — Smooth Brome-grass (Bromus
inerm^is) .

this Brome-grass and its unusual drought-resisting powers are qualities which
recommend it for general cultivation, particularly in the semiarid regions of the
West and Northwest. It thrives well on dry, loose soil, but of course the better
the soil the greater the yield. Its nutritive value is comparatively low, and
before undertaking its cultivation the fact should be remembered that it is
somewhat difiQcult to eradicate when once established, although by no means so
difiScult as Couch-grass or Johnson-grass. In Europe it is classed among the
best hay grasses. The seeds are quoted in New York catalogues at from $20 to
$22 per 100 xjounds. A bushel weighs about 14 pounds. Sow two bushels to
the acre if sown alone. In this country the yield of seed per acre has been 600
pounds, which at the prices named would make it a very jirofitable crop. Pro-
fessor Fletcher, of Canada, reports a yield of 3f tons of hay per acre.

24

No. 55. Bromus pumpellianus Scribn. Western Brome-grass.

A native of the Northwestern .states in the Rocky Mountain region, extending into
Canada. In habit of growth it closely resembles Hungarian, or Smooth Brome-
grass (B. inermis), and is doubtless equally valuable. Prof. James Fletcher, who
has cultivated this grass at the experiment station at Ottawa, Canada, says,
"This is a very valuable grass, producing an abundance of leaves, continuing in
llower for a long time, and giving a heavy aftermath."

No. 56. Bromus racemosus Linn. Upright Chess.

An introduced annual, 1 to 3 feet high, with more or less spreading and nodding
panicles and smooth spikelets. This is a very common grass in cultivated fields
and waste places, and is often mistaken for Chess, from which it differs chiefly
in its narrower panicles and straight awns, which are nearly as long as the

Fig. 21.— Chess {Bromus secalinus).

no. 22.— Rescue- grass {Bromus unioloides).

flowering glumes. This grass has booorae very common in certain sections, par-
ticularly in the South. A field of it presents an attractive appearance, and the
hay produced is of good quality.

No. 57. Bromus secalinus Linn. Chess; Cheat. (Fig. 21.)

A well-known, weedy, annual grass, introduced into this ccmntry many years ago,
and now coniinon in grain fields and waste lands. The panicle is spreading and
more or less drooping, and the awns of the flowering glumes are usually much
shorter than the glumes thciniselves and nioie or less flexuose. The idea that
Cheat or Chess is degenerated wheat has no foundation whatever in fact. Only
Cheat seeds will produce Cheat, and it is certain that wherever these plants
appear they were preceded by Cheat seeds, which may have been introduced with
the grail) sown, <.r brought by birds or animals from other fields. Cheat and
wheat are only remotely related; they Welong to (luite distinct tribes in the grass

25

FiQ. 23.— Bnffalo-^rasa (Bui-
bilisdactyloideg). a, female
plant; b, male plant.

family; wheat is less likely to change into cheat in a single generation than
into the more nearly allied oats, or than -wheat is to change into barley, with
which it is very closely related.

No. 58. Bromus unioloides Willd. Eescue-grass. (Fig. 22.)

This Bromu8, which is a native of South America, and probably also of the extreme

southwestern portion of the United States, is a strong-growing grass, with

rather broad, much flattened, usually bearded spil^elets. It grows to the height

of 1 to 3 feet, and in the more vigorous plants the

branches of the nodding panicle are widely spreading.

It grows rapidly, seeds freely, and dies after seeding.

If, by frequent mowing or close grazing, it is prevented

from going to seed, its duration may be continued

over two or three years or more. If the seeds are

allowed to fall, as they frequently do when mature,

young plants soon appear, and a fairly continuous

growth of this grass may thus be maintained. In

many parts of the Southern States, where it has been

most cultivated, it has come to be regarded as one of

the best winter grasses, as it makes its chief growth

during the cooler months of the year. Sow in August

or September, at the rate of 30 to 40 pounds to the acre.

No. 59 Bulbilis dactyloides (Nutt.) Eafin. Buffalo-
grass. (Fig. 23.)

This is the true Buffalo-grass of the Great Plains region,

which is reported to have been much more abundant and more widely distributed
in times past than It is at present. Now, however, it is known to extend from
the British Possessions southward into Texas, where it is considered an invalu-
able grass and one of the best constituents of sheep pastures. It has a low habit

of growth, rarely more than 5 or 6 inches high, and pro-
duces numerous creeping and widely spreading branches
or stolons, which root at the joints, each joint forming a
new tuft, and in this way the grass often covers large
areas with a close mat of fine-leafed herbage, which is
greatly relisshed by all grazing animals. As a winter for-
age, it is without an equal. The habit of growth of this
plant is very similar to that of Bermuda-grass, but the
stems and leaves are much finer and the turf formed more
compact. Live roots transplanted from Nebraska to the
grounds of the Department of Agriculture at Washing-
ton, D. C, have grown with remarkable vigor, and it may
be possible to utilize this most palatable and nutritious
grass in portions of the Ea^ern or Southern States.

No. 60. Calamagrostis canadensis (Michx.) Beauv. Blue-
joint. (Fig. 24.)
A native grass common in the Northern and Northwestern
States, extending clear across the continent, usually
Fig. 24.— Blue-joint (CaJ- growing in moist meadows. The leafy stems are 3 to 5

amagroitis canadensis). feet high, and the open brown or purplish panicles have

some resemblance to those of Redtop. Occasionally it is
found occupying considerable areas to the exclusion of other grasses, and under
such conditions it yields a large amount of excellent hay, highly prized by farm-
ers and eaten with avidity by all farm stock. This grass grows naturally on low,
moist meadows, and has succeeded well under cultivation. In the northern por-
tion of the United States its more extended culture for hay is recommended.

26

No. 61. Calamagrostis cinnoides (Mulil.) Spreug. Reed. Bent- grass.

A stout, reed-like grass, 3 to 5 feet bigli, not infrequent in low, moist grounds and
swamps, ranging from New England southward to Tennessee. No attempts
have been made to cultivate it, and little is known of its agricultural value.
Probably of some use for low woodlands where grasses are desired for pasturage,
and if it will thrive in the open it would make a most excellent bay-grass for
low meadows.

No. 62. Calamagrostis hyperborea amerioana (Vasey) Kearn. Yellow-top.

A very common grass in low meadows and shady river banks throughout the North-
west. It affords a large amount of excellent hay if cut iu proper season. A
good grass for cultivation in moist, sandy meadows.

No. 63. Calamagrostis neglecta(Ehrb.)Gaertn. Pony-

A rather slender, erect jierennial, with narrow leaves,
and a contracted, densely flowered, brownish panicle,
3 to 6 inches long. A native of Northern Europe and
North America, ranging along our northern borders
from Newfoundland and Maine to the Pacific, being
most abundant in tbe Eocky Mouutain region. Under
experimental cultivation it has succeeded well. It is
a productive grass, much liked by stock, especially
horses, and is deserving a place among the cultivated
species.

No. 64. Calamagrostis suksdorfii Seribn. Pine-grass.

A rather slender, erect grass, 2 to 3 feet high, with
smooth stems, narrow leaves, and contracted, usually
pale, straw-colored panicles. A common grass in the
Northwest, growing in low pine woods or on moist
mountain slopes. It is said to be one of the most
common grasses in Washington, and it presents all
the qualities of an excellent hay or pasture grass.

No. 65. Calamovilfa longifolia (Hook) Seribn. Sand-
grass. (Fig. 25.)

A stout, long-leafed grass, 1 to 4 feet high, growing in
sands or sandy soil along the shores of the Great
Lakes and in the Missouri region of the West, ex-
tending southward to Kansas. Its very strong and
far-reaching rhizomes or creeping "roots" make this
an exceedingly valuable grass for binding drifting
sands, or those subject to Avasli by swift currents or
As a sand binder for interior regions of the country

Fig. 25. — Sand-grass (Oalamo-
vilfa longifolia).

the beating of the waves

Its long, tough leaves suggest a possible

this grass is probably unsurpassed
value for paper making.

No. 66. Campulosus aromaticus (Walt.) Seribn. Toothache-grass. (Fig. 2fi.)

A perennial grass with erect stems 3 to 4 feet high. Native of the Southern States
from Virginia southward, growing iu the wet pine barrens, possessing no agri-
cultural value, but rather curious iu appearance. The strong rootstocks are
lemon-scented and have a pungent taste.

No. 67. Cenchrus echinatus Linn. Cock-spur.

A rather stcmt annual, with branching culms 1 1o 2 feet long, and dense heads or
spikes made up of 20 or more globular, spiny burs containing the spikelets. It
is a weed of the fiehls and waste places of the Southern and Southwestern States.

27

No. 68. Cenchrus tribuloides Linn. Sand-bnr. (Fig. 27.)

A widely distributed grass growing in sandy soils along river hanks, the seashore
and more or less scattered throughout the interior of the country in sandy dis-
tricts. It is one of the worst of annual weeds wherever it becomes abundant.
The prostrate branching stems are 1 to 2 feet long ; the spikes are composed of
10 to 15 strongly spiny burs, which readily become detached and adhere to
passing objects. No pains should be spared in efforts to exterminate this grass
wherever it makes its appearance.

No. 69. Chaetochloa glauca (Linn.) Scribn. Yellow Foxtail. (Fig. 28.)
An erect annual, 1 to 2 feet high, with flat leaves, and a bristly, cylindrical, spike-
like, densely flowered panicle 1 to 3 inches long. This grass is widely distrib-
uted throughout the tropical and warmer temperate regions of the world, grow-

FlG. 26. — Toothache -grass
{Oainpulotus aromaticus).

Fig. 27. — Sand-bnr {Cenchrus tribu-
loides) .

Fig. 28.— Yellow
Foxtail (Chaeto-
chloa glauca).

ingas a weed in cultivated grounds. It is especially common in the Southern
States, where it continues to bloom throughout the season, from June to Octo-
ber. It is distinguished from Setaria vb'idis by its somewhat larger spikelets
and more widely spreading yellowish bristles.

No. 70. Chaetochloa italica (Linn.) Scribn. Millet; Hungarian-grass. (Fig. 30.)
This grass, in some of its varieties, has been cultivated in the East for many centu-
ries, and in some parts of India and Trans-Caucasia it still forms an important
article of food. Its culture extends back to an early date in Egypt, and in the
lake dwellings of the stone age it is found in such quantities that it must be
regarded as tbc main bread supjily of the prehistoric peoples (Hackel). In
Europe and in this country it is cultivated to some extent for fodder and for the

28

seed, the latter being used chiefly for fowls. It grows rapidly, and may be cut
within sixty or sixty-five days from the time of sowing. If used (or fodder, it
should becut just as it. begins to head, before blooming, for when more advanced
it is apt to be injurious to stock fed upon it. When cut in good season it is one
of the most valuable of soiling plants. German Millet (fig. 29) is only a vaiiety
of ChcetocMoa italica, distinguished by its smaller, more compact, and erect
heads, the bristles of which are usually purplish. Sow 2 to 3 pecks per acre
for hay. One peek is sufficient when sown for seed.

No. 71. Chaetochloamagna (Griesb.) Scribn. Giant Millet. (PI. II.)

This native millet grows in swamps along the coast from Florida to Delaware, The

leaves are very broad and long, and the stems are often 8 or 10 feet in height.

It is one of the most promising grasses for use in the reclamation of swampy

Fig. 29.— German Millet.

Fig. 30.— Millet (Okcetochloa italica).

lands along the coast. It has been grown successfully in the grass garden on
the Department grounds. A single plant, with much branched stems, is shown
in PI. IT.

No. 72. Cliaetochloa verticillata (Linn.) Scribn. Bristly Foxtail.

Has about the same wide distribution as ChatocMoa glauca, but is much less com-
mon in the United States. It is rarely found except in waste town lots and
about dwellings in the Atlantic States. The bristles in this species are barbed
downward, on account of which the "heads" cling to clothing or other objects
with which they may come in contact. A weed.

No. 73. Chaetochloa viridis (Linn.) Scribn. Green Foxtail.

Similar in habit to Clmtochloa f/lauca, with about the same distribution, and equally
common in this country, appearing as a weed in all cultivated grounds. It

Bui. 14, Div. of Agrostology

Plate M

Single Plant of native "Giant Millet"" in Grass Garden of the U. S.
Department of /Agriculture.

29

begins to l)loom a little earlier than tli<i Yellow Foxtail, the more numeroas
spilcelets are smaller, the head or panich; less erect, and the hristles usually
green, not yellow, as in that species. The stems are very tough and may be
utilized for making paper.

No. 74. Chloris barbata Sw. Bearded Crowfoot.

This and the very similar C. eleyans of our Southwestern States and Territories are
pleasing ornamental grasses, growing to the height of 1 to 2 feet, the main stem
and branches being terminated by 3 to 10 bearded spikes, which impart to them
a striking appearance and make them valuable ornamentals. C. pohjdacUjla,
a West Indian species wiiich has been found in southern Florida, is equally
attractive, and has longer and more griicc lul spikes. C. Ixirhafa ii].pears to be
the only one generally cultivated, but there are several native species which
are quite as ornamental. C. gracUis,
a native of Central America and Mex-
ico, is another species occasionally
cultivated for ornament.

No. 75. Chloris glauca (CJhapm.) A^asey.

Smooth Chloris. (Fig. 31.)
A strong-growing grass, with diffusely

spreading and ascending stems, 2 to

4 feet long, bearing 10 to 25 sleuder

terminal spikes. Native of Florida,

growing on brackish marshes and

along the borders of cypress swamps.

This is a handsome species, well de-
serving the attention of the dorist

and although not at present recog-
nized as possessing any agricultural

value, it produces a large amount of

comparatively tender herbage and

may jirove to be a desirable fodder

plant for certain localities along the

Gulf coast. It has made a good

growth under cultivation on clayey

soil at Washington, D. C.

No. 76. Chloris verticillata Nutt.
Windmill-grass.

A low, spreading perennial, with upright
flowering branches 6 to 20 inches high.
The small awned spikelets are in slen-
der spikes, which are crowded near the apex of the stems, and become widely-
spreading at maturity. This grass is common in many places in central Texas,
New Mexico, Arizona, northward to Kansas, and by some ie spoken of very highly
as an excellent grass for grazing, and one not easily tramped out. The arrange-
ment of the spikes gives the grass an odd and somewhat pleasing appearance, mak-
ing it of some use as an ornamental species for gardens. It is a good turf-former.

No. 77. Ciima arundinacea Linn. Indian Reed.

A tail, leafy grass, 3 to 7 feet high, native and frequent in shaded swamps and damp
woods or along streams in wet meadows. For such places it may possess some
agricultural value, as it yields a large amount of excellent hay Avhere growing
abundantly.

No. 78. Coix lacryma-jobi Liun. Job's Tears.

This grass is a native of southern Asia, and is occasionally cultivated in this country

L' IG. 31.— Smooth Chloris (Chloris glauca).

30

for ornament or as a curiosity. It is cultivated for food by some of the liill tribes
of India, and supplies a staple article of diet of the Tankhul Nagas of Manipur.
The female flowers of this grass are inclosed in a nearly globular, capsule-like
covering, which is very hard and becomes nearly white with age. In some coun-
tries these capsules are used for dress ornamentation and by the Catholics for
rosaries. In China this grass is cultivated to some extent, because the fruit is
believed to be valuable as a diuretic and antiphthisis. It is a hardy annual, 2 to
3 feet high, with Itroad leaves and a curious, nodding inflorescence. The "seeds"
may be obtained from any of the leading seedsmen.

No. 79. Cynodon dactylou Pers. Bermuda-grass. (Fig. 32.)

A grass widely dispersed over the tropical regions and warmer countries of the globe.
It has a creeping habit of growth, extending over the surface of the ground and

rooting at the joints. In poor soils the
leaves are short and the upright flowering
stems are only a few inches high, but on
good land it grows to the height of 1 to 2
feet and yields a large amount of excellent
hay. It may be cut three or four times dur-
ing the season. In the Northern States it
does not afford a profitable crop and is of
little value for pasturage north of Virginia,
but in the Southern States and in the warm-
er regions of the Southwest and on the Pacific
slope it is cultivated extensively and is most
highly prized, chiefly for grazing, all kinds
of stock being exceedingly fond of it. It
grows freely on sandy soils where other
grasses will not thrive, and resists extreme
drought and high temjjeratures. It is par-
ticularly a sun-loving grass, and will not
thrive in the shade. It is useful for binding
drifting sands and the loose soil of embank-
ments or those subject to wash. It makes a
pleasing lawn grass, and is extensively used
for this purpose in the hotter portions of
the United States, for it will thrive where
the grasses ordinarily employed for lawns
could not survive. The yield of hay under
good conditions is from 3 to 4 tons to the
acre, and as high as 10 tons to the acre have
been produced under peculiarly favorable
circumstances. While this grass Avill sur-
vive the winters of the latitude of Phila-
delphia, the leafage is very sensitive to cold and turns brown Avith the first
frosts. This fact renders it objectionable as a lawn grass, except in regions
where the Avinter season is very mild. In many portions of the Southern States
there is probably no gra.ss equal to Bermuda for summer pastures, and none
Avhich will better resist the trampling of stock. Bermuda does not mature seed
except in the extreme southern portion of our country, but seed obtained from
more southern latitudes is offered for sale by some of our leading seed dealers.
The most direct and certain method of propagation is by transplanting, which
may be effected by cutting up Bermuda turf into small pieces, scattering these
along shalloAV furrows and covering them lightly. When once established, Ber-
muda grass is very persistent and dinicult to eradicate, and it sh(mld not be
introduced upon land Avhich is likel.v to be used for other crops. New York
catalogues quote the seed at $1 to $1.25 jier pound, retail. In the vicinity of

Fig. 32.-

-Bermiida-grass (Cynodon
dactylon).

31

Washington, D. C, Bermuda-grass is known as wire grass, and in Australia it
is called Couch-grass.

No. 80. Cynosurus cristatus Linn. Crested Dog's-tail. (Fig. 33).

A slightly tufted perennial grass, 1 to 2 feet high, with line and chieliy radical
leaves. It is a native of Europe aud is adapted to cultivation in moist, tem-
perate regions, and has been sparingly introduced into this
country. On moist, rich land it is fairly productive, hut is
rarely sown alone, excepting for seed or the formation of
lawns, for which latter purpose it is well adapted, as it
forms an even and compact sward when thickly sown. It
is said to thrive well in the shade, a fact which gives it im-
portance to those having shaded lawns. It forms a good
bottom grass, has a highly nutritive value, and is recom-
mended for all mixtures used for permanent pastures, espe-
cially in hilly regions. The mature stems of this grass are
among the most valuable of those used in the manufacture
of Leghorn hats. Number of seeds in a pound of pure seed
is about 1,127,000. Price of seed in New York, 40 to 60 cents

per pound, or $7 to $12 per bushel of
It 21 pounds.

No. 81. Dactylis glonierata Linn.
Orchard-grass. (Fig. 34.)

This is one of the best known aud most
popular of our cultivated grasses.
It will grow well on any soil con-
taining a reasonable amount of fer-
tility, excepting that which is very
wet. It is a hardy grass and may
be grown successfully anywhere in
the United States, except in the ex-
treme South and in the arid regions
of the West. It yields au abundant
crop of excellent hay, and may be

sown alone for this purpose, but

Fig. 33.-Creste(l Dog's-
tail {Cynosurus cris-
tatus.)

owing to its habit of forming tufts
or tussocks, the land should be

seeded heavily or the seeds should be mixed with other
kinds, to act as fillers or bottom grasses. It is -a good
pasture grass, especially for open woodlands, and affords
excellent grazing earlier than almost any other species.
The aftermath is une(xualed in amount by any of the
grasses ordinarily cultivated for hay. When sown with
other grasses, the tendency of Orchard-grass to form tus-
socks is much diminished and the sward greatly improved.
Heavy rolling is also recommended for checking or pre-
venting the tufted growth which this grass naturally
assumes. By this operation the tufts are pressed down
to the level of the other grasses and the turf becomes
more uniform. In old, rich meadows of Orchard-grass
it is advisable to harrow in the spring and afterwards use
the roller. Its best record of yield, made by Sinclair, was 27,905 pounds green,
11,859 pounds of hay, and 11,910 pounds of green aftermath per acre. Sow 3
to 4 bushels to the acre. The average number of grains in one pound of pure
seed is 579,500. Price of seed, as given in New York catalogues, $3 per bushel
of 14 pounds. In England Orchard-grass is known as Cock's-foot.

FiQ. 34.— Orchard-grass
(Dactylis glomerata) .

32

No. 82. Dactyloctenium aegyptium (Linn.) Willd. Crowfoot-grass. (Fig. 35.)
This grass, which is a weed thronghout all the warmer countries of the world, has
become quite common in some of the Southern States. It closely resembles the
more common Goose-grass or Duck's-grass {Elensine indica), from which it dif-
fers chiefly in having the terminal spikes shorter and each tipped with a sharp
prolongation of the axis. It is usually found in cultivated fields, and often in
such abundance as to displace the less vigorous native sorts, and is sometimes
cut for hay. In parts of Africa,where this grass is common, a decoction is pre-
pared from the seeds, wliich is used for inflammation of the kidneys. In Aus-
tralia it is valued for pasture. In India the grain is sometimes used for food
by the natives in times of scarcity. The ilobave Indians of California also use

the grain for food, grinding it and mak-
ing the flour into cakes or mush. (C. R.
Orcutt.)

No. 83. Danthonia

Tennessee Oat-grass.

compressa Austin.

A slender, erect, tufted perennial, usually
growing to the height of about 2 feet,
Avith long and narrow root-leaves, and
few-flowered spreading panicles. It is a
common grass in the hilly regions of New
England and the Middle States, and ex-
tends southward into North Carolina and
Tennessee along the mountains, where
it forms the bulk of the forage of the
so-called "balds" or parks which are com-
mon to mountains in the South. It is
highly nutritious, as determined by
chemical analysis, as well as by its effect
upon the stock grazing upon it. It stands
well the trampling and grazing of both
horses and cattle, but sheep are too close
feeders, and where these range it soon
disappears.

No. 84. Deschampsiacaespitosa (L.) lieauv.
Tufted Hair-grass.

A native perennial, ranging from New Eng-
land to Pennsylvania, and westward to
the I'aciflc Coast. It yields an inferior,
coarse, harsh forage, and is not eaten by
stock except when young. It has a record of producing 10,209 pounds green
and 3,;U8 pounds dry hay per acre. Johnson, in his work on British grasses,
says of the tendency of Tufted Hair-grass to form tussocks: "In the economy
of nature these tufts, so unsightly and disiiguring to the landscape, are valuable
by contri))uting to elevate and solidify low lands liable to be overflowed by
rivers, and where they occur on hill and mountain slopes, by binding the spongy
soil and preventing the slips which would leave them bare." This grass is most
abundant in the Rocky Mountain region, where it doubtless serves to a consid-
erable extent the purpose here mentioned. In Englan<l it is sometimes used by
the farmers to make door mats. In Germany it furnishes the "Lyme-grass"
used in upholstery. Price of the seed in New York, $22 per 100 pounds.

No. 85. Deschampsiaflexuosa (L.) Trin. Wood-Hair grass. (Fig. 36.)
A slender perennial grass, 1 to 2 feet higli, with numerous very flne root-leaves and
a delicate capillary panicle. It grows in tufts like Deachavipnia caspitona, and is

Fio. 35.

- Crowfoot-grass ( Dactyloctenium
cegyptiutn) .

33

more common in the Eastern States than that species, Imt is even less valnable
for meadows. It is, however, of some value for woodland pastures, as it will
grow very well in the shade. It extends southward along the mountains into
North Carolina and Tennessee. Its range westward is limited. It has a record
of producing 12,209 pounds of rowen and 3,318 of dry hay per acre. The price of
seed quoted in New York catalogues is $15 per 100 pounds.

No. 86. Distichlis spicata (L.) Greene. Salt-grass. (Fig. 37.)
An upright, wiry grass, 10 to 20 inches high, with strong, extensively creeping root-
stocks. Common along the coast on both sides of the continent, and abundant
in the alkaline regions of the interior, where it is often found covering consider-
able areas to the exclusion of other grasses. It thrives even in ground heavily
crusted with alkali and other salts sufficient to destroy almost any other kind

Fig. 36. — Wood Hair-grass {Deschampgia

jiexuosa).

Fig. 37 Salt-grasa (Digtichlis

spicata).

of vegetable growth. Prospectors and miners consider its presence a sure sign of
water near the surface, and when crossing the desert select spots where it grows
to dig for water (Orcutt). In farming lands it is deemed a nuisance, for its
tough, matted roots make a sod almost impossible to l)reak up with a plow.
Although sometimes eaten by stock in the absence of better sorts, it has little
agricultural value. It ia a good grass for binding loose sands or soils subject
to wash.

No. 87. Eatonia obtusata (Michx.) Gray. Early Bunch-grass.

A tufted perennial, 1 to 2 feet high, with flat leaves and rather densely flowered
nodding panicles. This is a native sjiecies, growing usually in moist soil, and
ranging from New York to California and southward. A tender grass, readily
eaten by stock, which, when abundant, supplies considerable native forage of
good quality.

4393—1^0. U 3

34

No. 88. Eleusine coracana (L.) Gii-rtu. African Millet.

An erect annual grass, 2 to 4 feet high, closely related to and much resembling out
common crowfoot (Eleusine hidica), but of rather stouter habit and with larger
spikes and seeds. It is cultivated in India, southern China, Japan, and in many
parts of Africa for the grain, which is used as food. It forms the principal food
of many African tribes. In spite of the bitter taste of the flour, a kind of
bread or unleavened cake is made of it. Beer is brewed from the grain in
Abyssinia. Said to yield good crops, even on very poor soil, and may be culti-
A^ated in the same way and for the same purposes as millet. The seeds are
marked with very line, comb-like lines.

No. 89. Eleusine indica (Linn.) Gnertn. Goose-grass. (Fig. 38.)
A coarse, tufted annual, with erect or spreading stems, 6 inches to 2 feet high; spike-
lets arranged in a number of spikes which are clustered at the top of the stem.

This grass is distributed throughout
the warmer countries of the globe,
and is particularly abundant in the
Southern States, growing in culti-
vated grounds about dwellings, etc.
It has somewhat wiry, flattened
stems, many springing from a single
root, and rather thick leaves. Some
authors have spoken of it as being
nutritious and good for grazing or
soiling and for hay, but it is more
generally regarded as a weed, and
often a troublesome one in door-
yards or lawns.

No. 90. Elymus arenarius Linn. Sea

Lyme-grass. (Fig. 39.)

A stout, coarse grass, 2 to 8 feet high,
with strong, creeping rootstocks,
smooth stems, long, rigid leaves, and
dense terminal spikes 6 to 12 inches
long. The spikelets are about an
inch long and three- to four-flowered.
This grass is common along the sea-
coast of northern Europe, our north
Atlantic coast, and on our Western
shores from Santa Cruz, Cal., north-
ward to within the Arctic zone. It
is one of the best gnisscs known for
biniling the drifting sands of the
coast, and in northern Europe has been cultivated along with Beach-grass for this
l»ur]»osc. These two grasses when combined seem admirably adapted for the pur-
pose of forming a barrier to the encroachnient of the sea; the sand that Beach-
grass arrests and ((dlects about itself the Lyme-grass secures and holds fast.
The seeds are us(!d for food by the Digger Indians of the Northwest, and as the
grass springs up around their deserted lodges it is called by the settlers "Uanche-
ria " grass. This Lyme-grass is usually regarded as possessing little or no forage
value, but in very moist climates or under certain favorable conditions it may
yield a valuable fodder, for Avhen young the grass is tender and nutritions.

No. 91. Elymus canadensis Linn. AVild Kye.

A rather stout, smooth perennial, 3 to 5 feet high, with broad, flat leaves, 6 to 12
inches long. 'I'he bearded spikelets arr arranged in a terminal spike or " head,"
which has some resemlilanco to a head of lye. Common in 1()W thickets and

Fio. 38.— Goose-grass {Eleusine indica).

35

.Vi

along streams in rich, ojieu woods throughout the (•f)untry. In the Nortlnvest
it is regarded as of some agricultural value; its cultivation is evidently worthy
of trial, for if it could be successfully grown its yield of hay would be large,
and, judging from appearances, the hay would be of good quality.

No. 92. Elymus condensatus Presl. Giant Eye-grass.

The largest of the native Rye grasses, growing to the height of
5 to 10 feet. Common in the Rocky Mountain regions and
on the Pacific slojie, usually growing along rivers or streams
the banks of which are protected and held together by the
strong, spreading rootstocks of the grass. This grass is
useful for holding the sand on railway banks, etc. Wlien
young this grass makes excellent hay, and when allowed to
stand it affords a considerable amount of fodder for stock on
the winter ranges. The seeds are used for food by the Indians.

No. 93. Elymus macounii Vasey. Maconu's Rye-grass.

A perennial grass, found quite abundantly in moist meadows,
in the gravelly foothills of the northern Rocky Mountains.
The culms are leafy, and this grass contributes quite
largely to tlie native hay cut by the ranchers of the North-
west. It is apparently a very valual>le species.

No. 94. Elymus mollis Trin. Soft Sea Lyme-grass.

A grass which closely resembles and has
the same habit of growth as Elymus
arenarius. It is distinguished by
having the stem soft-downy just be-
low the head or spike and in having
five to seven flowered spikelets, the
outer glumes of which are broader
and five- to seven-nerved. This grass
occurs along the shores of the Great
Lakes and northward on both the
Atlantic and Pacific coasts.

No. 95. Elymus triticoides Xutt. Wild
Wheat.

By some this has been regarded as a small, reduced form of
lilymiis condensatus, mentioned above. It grows to the
height of 2 to 3 or 4 feet and is native of the Rocky Moun-
tain region and Pacific Slope, extending eastward nearly
to the Mississippi. While it is a grass of good appear-
ance and possibly of some agricultural value, no attempts
have been made to cultivate it.

No. 96. Elymus virginicus Linn. Terrell-grass. (Fig. 40.)
The most common of our native species of Lyme-grass,
growing along streams, the borders of woods and thick-
ets, more rarely in the open ground. It is an erect,
smooth grass, 2 to 3 feet high, with rigid terminal spikes,
which are often partly included within the upper leaf-
sheath. This grass has the appearance of possessing some
agricultural value; it forms an inferior turf, and by the
time it blooms all the lower leaves are usually dead.
When young it doubtless possesses some value as a native pasture grass. In
Kansas, South Dakota, and Nebraska it is regarded a valuable grass for wood-
land pastures.

Fig. 39. — Sea Lyme-
grass (Elyinvs are-
nariut).

Fifi. 40. — Terrell-grass
(Elyrnus virginicux).

36

No. 97. Epicampes rigens Benth. Dcor-grass. (Fig. 41.)

A stout, erect grass, 3 to 4 feet bigh, with rigid, wiry stems, aud a very long, narrow,

densely llowered, spike-like panicle. This grass is not nncommon in Arizona,
southern California, and New Mexico, growing in sandy soil. It is regarded as

one of the best native dry land grasses, and is clo.sely
grazed wherever stock can get at it. The roots of Epi-
campes macronra — Mexican Broom-root or Mexican
Whisk — are used in making brushes and are exported
from Vera Cruz to Europe for this purpose.
No. 98. Eragrostis abyssinica Link. Teff.
A branching, leafy annual, 2 to 4 feet high, with widely
spreading capillary panicles of many spikelets. This
grass grows readily from seed, which is produced abnnd
antly, and it may be of some value for hay in parts of the
South or Southwest. In northeastern Africa, where the
grass is apparently native, the grain is extensively used
for food, being made into
bread, which possesses a
slight but agreeable acid
taste. There are two va-
rieties ci;ltivated, a white
aud a red variety, the for-
mer being much superior
to the latter and used only
by the higher classes. It
is sometimes grown in gar-
dens for the elegant pani-
cles, which are nsed in
bouciuets. Era<jroslis iieo-
mexicana Vasey, with the
general habit of growth of
Teft', occurs in New Mex-
ico, springing up after

rains, particularly in the region about Doming,

where it is called "Crab-grass." It is an annual,

growing to the height of 2 to 4 feet, with widely

spreadiug, many flowered panicles, and is largely

cut for hay.

No. 99. Eragrostis major Host. Stink-grass.

(Fig. 42.)

A rather showy, much-branched annual, with erect or
ascending stems, (i inches to 2 or 3 feet high.
This species, which is a native of Europe, has
become widely distributed in this country, grow-
ing chieliy in cultivated or waste grounds, especially in light soils. When fresh
it emits a strong, unpleasant odor.

No. 100. Eragrostis obtusiflora (Fourn.) Scribn. Mexican Salt-grass.

A rigid perennial, 12 to 18 inches high, with strong and extensively scaly rootstocks,
stiff and 8har])-})ointed leaves, aud more or less sjjreading panicles. Abundant
in the highly alkaline soils of Sul])hur Springs Valley, Arizona, where the large
rootstocks serve to bind the shifting sands. In the altscnce of other grasses it
is eaten by stock.

No. 101. Eragrostis pilosa (I. inn.) Heauv. Slender Meadow-grass.

A slender l)rancliing ainiual, (> to 18 inches high, with narrow, flat leaves and capil-

FiG. 41.— Deer-grass {Epi-
campes rigens).

FiQ. 42.-

Stink -grass (Eragrostif!

tnujiir).

37

lary, open panicles. This grass is widely distributed, throughout the subtropi-
cal and warmer temperate regions of both hemispheres. In this country it has
received no attention or is regarded as little more than a ^^eed, but in Australia
and India il is spoken of as being an excellent fodder grass, and the seeds are
eaten by the natives of Ajmere, India.

No. 102. Eragrcstis purshii Schrad. Southern Spear-grass.

A native annual, similar in appearance to Eragrostis pilosa, and growing in similar
situations. It is common from the Middle States south ward, and extends south-
westward into Texas and Arizona, where it exists in a great variety of forms.
It grows to the height of 1 to 2 feet. It is nowhere considered of any agricultural
importance.

No. 103. Erianthus raveunae Beauv. Plume-grass.

A stout grass growing to the height of 8 or 10 feet, with large and plume-like pani-
cles 10 to 20 inches long, resembling in some degree Pampas-grass. Cultivated
for lawn decoration, as is also the variety with variegated leaves. A native of
the Mediterranean region.

No. 104. Erianthus saccharoides Michx. Plume-grass.

A tall stout grass of striking appearance, 4 to 6 feet high, with a reddish or silvery-
white showy panicle from 5 to 10 inches long. This grass ranges from New .ler-
sey to Illinois and southward to the Gulf, growing in very wet places and open
swamps. Of no agricultural value, but deserves notice as an ornamental grass
for lawns and gardens.

No. 105. Eriochloa aristata A'asey. Mexican Everlasting-grass.

A branching leafy annual, 2 to 3 feet high ; native of Mexico. Seed of this grass was
obtained by the Dei»artment in 1888. It was cultivated in the grass garden
located at Starkville, Miss., by Prof. S. M. Tracy, who says that it is a much
more promising grass than E. annidata, more hardy, less injured by drought, and
produces a heavier growth. It will make two good crops of hay annually in the
South, the best crop being from the second growth, which is ready to cut in
October. The grass produces an abundance of seed and reseeds itself, making
its production comparatively inexpensive.

No. 106. Eriochloa punctata (Linn.) Hamilt. Everlasting-grass.

A quick-growing, smooth, succulent perennial, 2 to 3 feet high, with flat leaves and
narrow panicles 2 to 4 inches long. Widely distributed within the tropical and
subtropical regions of both hemispheres. In Australia it is regarded as an excel-
lent pasture grass, lasting all the year round and well liked by stock. The seed,
which is produced abundantly, is easily gathered. This grass deserves the
attention of Southern dairymen. In Arizona it grows throughout the valleys
in irrigated soil, or in the rich moist places of the plains, yielding abundant
herbage eagerly sought by all kinds of stock.

No. 107. Eriocoma cuspidata Nutt. Indian Millet. (Fig. 43.)

A grass of rather striking appearance, 1 to 2 feet high, widely distributed through-
out the Rocky Mountain region from British America southward to Texas and
New Mexico, eastward to the Missouri, and westward to the Sierras of California.
It grows in dry sandy soils, forming bunches of greater or less size, and from
this habit of growth it has been called, along with a number of other grasses,
"Bunch-grass." It thrives in soil too dry and sandy for the growth of most
other grasses, and is much esteemed for grazing in the regions where it abounds.
In New Mexico this grass is by some decerned superior to grama, on account of
its huge and nutritious seeds or grains, which are used by the Indians to some
extent for food.

38

No. 108. Euchlaeiia mexicaiia Schrad. Teosiute. (Fig. 44.)

v\. stout, leafy, annual grass, 8 to 10 or 12 feet higli, resembling Indian corn, to \vlii( h
it is botanically closely related. The variety TJ. Jiixiirians, of the seed cata
logues, wliich has been cultivated in various parts of the South and West, has a
habit of tillering, or sending up many — 1*0 to .50 — stalks from the same root
(Plate III, fig. 1). From this habit the bulk of fodder produced to the acre is
very large, probably unequaled by any otlier grass. It is liked by all kinds of
stock, and has especial value as a green fodder when other forage is dried up.
It may be cut several times during the season, but nearly as good results will be
obtained from a single cutting, made before there is any frost. The stalks are
tender, and there is no waste in the fodder when dry or green. One pound of
seed to the acre, planted in drills 3 feet apart and thinned to a foot apart in the
drill, is recommended. It is a native of the warmer portions of Mexico and

Central America. The seed rarely matures
north of southern Florida.

No. 109. Festuca duriuscula Lam. Hard Fescue.

A slender, densely tufted, perennial grass, 1 to 2
feet high, with numerous very fine radical
leaves and open panicles. This is one of the

Flo. 43. — Iiiiliiui Millcl (Eriocoma cuxpidata).

Fui. 44.— Teosinte {Enchlcena mexicana).

forms of .Sheep's Fescue, and is of little value except in pastures. Its particular
merit lies in its ability to thrive on dry sandy soils unlit for the growth of bet-
ter gr.-isses, and it well rt^sists long ]ieriod8 of sununer drought . It is well
adajited to the cooler and mouutaiuous regions of our country, being a native
of the cooler temperate regions of both hemispheres, (in well-manured, clayey
land this Fescue has produced upon a single acre 18,370 pounds of green hay at
time of tl<)wcring, and 8,200 pounds of hay besides 10,020 pounds of afterm;ith. It
possesses some Viilue as a lawn gr;iss, but if used for this ])nr|)ose it should be
sown thickly .lud unmixed with other sorts. Sow 2i to 3 bushels to the acre.
Price of seed in New York market, $16 to $18 i)er 100 pounds.

No. 110. Festnca elatior Linn. T;ill, or Meadow Fescue.

Tills grass liiis been widely ciilti v.ited in this country, h;iving been introiliiced from
Europe, and has become thoroughly n;ituralize«l. It is an exceedingly valuable

3ul. 14, Div. of Agrostology.

Plate. Iii.

Fig. 1.— Young Plants of Teosinte in Grass Garden of the U. S. Department of

Agriculture.

■IG. 2. -Reed Canary Grass in Grass Garden of the U. S, Department i:f

Agriculture.

39

grass oithtr for mowing or pasture. It is productive on soils which are not too
dry, and, heing of long duration, is especially valuable for permanent pastures.
It thrives best on moist soils rich in humus, whether marls or clays. The variety
pratensis, or Meadow Fescue, is a common form, rather smaller than the species,
with a narrower and fewer-flowered panicle. Variety arundinacea, or Reed
Fescue (fig. 45), is a very vigorous, tall form, 3 to 4 feet high, exceedingly hardy,
and yields a very large amount of hay of excellent quality, succeeding best ou
lauds that are comparatively moist. The seed of Meadow Fescue is quoted in
some of the New York catalogues at $3.50 per
bushel or $22 per 100 pounds. A bushel weighs
about 14 pounds.

No. 111. Festuca heterophylla Lam. Various-
leafed Fescue.

A rather slender European grass, 2 to 4 feet high,

with very narrow (setaceous) root-leaves, and

narrow but Hat culm leaves. It is a perennial,

closely related to Creeping Fescue, of which it

has been made a variety by some authors. The

panicle is comparatively large, open and nod-
ding at the apex. It is a species preferring a

rather mild climate, and grows naturally in open

woodlands or along their borders. It makes its

best growth on low-lying lands which are not

too dry, but upon good soil it withstands pro-
tracted periods of drought verj^ well. Owing to

the great production of fine root leaves, this

species makes a good bottom grass, and as these

leaves are quite soft the grass is well adapted

for lawns, and is particularly recommended for

those which are too much shaded for the suc-
cessful growth of other lawn grasses. It is an

excellent grass, also, for woodland parks where

the soil is not sandy. European authorities

have classed it with the best forage i)lants. It

is little known in this country, but the si ed is

offered for sale by our leading seedsmen, th»j#

retail ]irice being from $2.75 to $3 per bushel of

about 14 pounds. j-j^ 45 _i{ee(l Fescue (Festuca da-

No. 112. Festuca kingiKS. Wats.) Scribn. King's tior arandinacca).

Fescue.
A tall dicEcious bunch grass, common in the foothills and canyons of Colorado and

Montana. It is a very robust species, and supplies a large amount of good

though coarse winter forage. Growing naturally at an elevation of 7,000 to

8,000 feet, it might prove valuable in cultivation in similar localities.

No. 113. Festuca ovina Linn. Sheep's Fescue.

Sheep's Fescue exists iu many varieties in the Northwestern States, especially in the
Rocky Mountain region. Some of these varieties attain the height of 2 or 3 feet,
but for the most part they are rarely more than a foot high, producing a large
amount of fine herbage, which is valuable for grazing, especially for sheep.
Some of the native varieties are well worthy the attention of the agriculturist.
All the forms of Festuca ovina are "bunch-grasses," and are devoid of the creep-
ing roots, the jiresence of which distinguishes the Red Fescue (Festuca rubra)
from this species. Sheep's Fescue is well adapted for cultivation on light, dry
soils, especially those which are shallow and silicions. Although a native of
this country, our seed supply comes mostly, if not entirely, from Europe, where

40

i

the grass is also native. Sow 2A to 3 busLels per acre. The weight of a hushel
of seed is about 14 pounds. Price per bushel, $2.25 to $2.75 in New York.

No. 114. Festuca rubra Linn. Red Fescue.

This grass grows along the Atlantic coast of the New England and Middle States,
and in the Northern Slates, extending westward to the Pacific. Like Festuca
ovina, it presents many forms, but in some respects is superior to that species, as
by its creeping rhizomes it will form a compact and durable
turf. On account of this habit of growth, it is a useful
grass for binding moving sands along the seacoast, or cov-
ering gravelly banks and dry slopes. In Germany, Red
Fescue is regarded as one of the most valuable grasses for
dry, sandy meadows. Owing to the great production of fine
root leaves, this species makes a good bottom grass, and as
these leaves are quite soft the grass is well adapted for
lawns, and is particularly recommended for those which are
too much shaded for the successful growth of other lawn
grasses. It is an excellent grass also for woodland parks
where the soil is not sandy. European authorities have
classed it with the best forage plants. It is little known in
this country, hut the seed is offered for sale by our leading
seedsmen, the retail price being from $2.50 to $3 per bushel
of about 14 pounds. A variety, F. rubra glaucescens Hack,
(fig. 46), is the best pasture grass in the mountain meadows
of North Carolina and East
Tennessee.

No. 115. Festuca scabrella Torr.

Great Bunch-grass. (Fig. 47.)

A strong perennial, growing in

large tufts or bunches 1 to 3

or 4 feet high. A native of

th<^ Rocky Mountain regions,

extending from Colorado

northward and westward to

California and Oregon. It

often occupies extensive

mountain parks, to the ex-
clusion of other grasses, where it affords excellent
grazing. It may be cut for hay, of which it fur-
nishes a large amount, excellent in (juality, espe-
cially for horses. It is one of the best grasses for
winter stock ranges. In the Northwest, particu-
larly in the Rocky Mountain region, there aie
many native sjx'cies of the genus Fcntuca which
are well deserving the attention of stockmen and
farmers.

No. 116. Festuca teuuifolia Sibth. Slender Fescue.

A low ;md tine-leafed grass, in habit of growth resem-
l)liiig Fentuca oriiia, of which it is regarded as
only a variety by most authors. It has no special
agricultural value, but will grow in dry and
comparativi'ly sterile soil. Its line, hair-like

leaves and densely cespitosc haliit of growth render it a good lawn grass when
])roperly treated, especially for shady places, and it is also a good plant for
edgings.

Fig. 46. — Tonuessee
Fescue (Fentnca ru-
bra glaucescens).

Fio. 47. —Great HmicligrassCFcs.
tuca scabrella).

41

No. 117. Pourniera niexicana Scribn. Mexican Lawn-grass.

A low, extensively creeping grass that grows in tlie mountain valleys of western

Mexico. Stock cat it with avidity. An excellent lawn and pasture grass for

subtropical regions.

No. 118. G-ynerium argenteum Noes. Pampas-grass.

A stout perennial, 8 to 12 feet bigh, with mostly radical, narrow leaves 3 to 6 feet
long, and sbowy, silvery white or rose- red panicles 15 to 30 inches long. A iiiiich-
prized ornamental for lawn decoration. The liandsomc ]);uiicles are usc<l l'(tr
dry bouquets. Growing Pampas plumes is an important imlustry in some parts
of California. These plumes or
panicles are cut when exposed only
a few inches from the leaf sheath,
then dried, aud done up into bun-
dles for shipment. Pampas-grass
is a native of southern Brazil and
Argentina, and there the long
leaves are used for paper making,
and a decoction of the rhizome is
used as a diuretic, ^t. rosenvi is a
horticultural variety, with i)ale,
rose-colored plumes, (i.variegatum
is a form with variegated leaves.

No. 119. Hilaria cenchroides IIBK.

Curly Mesquit. (Fig. 48.)

A delicate perennial with slender,
creeping stems, the upright, leafy
shoots a few inches to nearly a foot
high. This is one of the most val-
uable of the grasses of the dry
plains and mesas of the Southwest.
It forms a dense, green sward, and
in habit of growth closely resem-
bles the true Butfalo-grass. It has
the habit of creeping over the
ground aud rooting at the joints
of the stems, from which spring
leafy branches that in turn reach
out for other places in whieli to
take root. It makes a thick mat
of leafy turf during the summer,
matures on its roots, and in the fall
and winter, when not rotted by
late rains, atKbrds excellent pastur-
age for all classes of stock. No

grass stands the long dry spells to which the Southwest is periodically subject
better than the Curly Mesquit. At such times it dries up and appears dead,
but in a few hours after a warm rain it becomes green to the end of the smallest
branches. It is best propagated by transplanting the runners. Seed is produced
in abundance, but is both ditificult to harvest and of rather uncertain vitality.

No. 120. Hilaria mutica Benth. Black Buucli-grass.

This is a rather coarse perennial, with creeping rootstocks, aud stems 12 to 18 inches
high. It is common on the dry mesas of New Mexico and Arizona, extendiug
eastward into Texas and Indian Territory. Where abundant it is regarded as
one of the most valuable native grasses aud furnishes excellent pasturage at all

Fig. 48. — Curly Mestjuit (Hilaria ccn.ehroidei); a,
group of spikeleCs ; i.spikelet; c, d, florets.

42

times wheu not covered with snow, and is frequently cut for hay. It forms
dense i)atches of greater or less extent on hillsides, mesas, and plains. It is also
called "Black grama," and is largely gathered for hay, being uprooted with a
hoe. (Pringle.)

No. 121. Hilaria rigida (Thurb.} Scribn. Galleta. (Fig. 49.)

In the driest regions of southern California and Ari-
zona, growing in the deserts where other grasses
are rarely seen. It has coarse, muchbrancLed,
and woody stems, 2 feet high or more, growing in
great clumps, resembling in its habit some of the
dwarf bamboos. The stems and leaf sheaths are
clothed with a dense, white-matted pubescence,
which gives to the grass a peculiarly striking
appearance. In the regions where it grows it is
regarded as valuable forage for pack animals and
mules, there being little other vegetation which
they can eat. Without this grass miners and
prospectors would lind great dithculty in travers-
ing the arid mountain and desert regions of the
Southwest, since scarcely any other forage plants
occur iu the districts oc-
cupied by it (Orcutt).
The Hilarias, of which
we have four species,
are grasses peculiarly
adapted for growth in
the drier lauds of the
Southwest, and al-
though they are, with
the exception of Hilaria
cenchroides, wiry and
tough, the forage they
aftbrd is very accept-
able iu the absence of
more succulent plants.

Fig. 49.— Galleta {Hilaria rigida).

No. 122. Holcuslanatus Linn. Velvet-grass. (Fig. 50.)

A perennial, 1 to 2 feet high, with a creeping rootstock, and
stems and leaves clothed all over with a soft, whitish
pubescence. This grass has been introduced into this
country from Europe, and has become naturali/.ed in
many places. It possesses little nutritive value, and
is not well liked by stock, particularly hor.ses. it
possesses some value, however, on peaty or sandy soils
where the better grasses will not grow. Its cultiva-
tion, however, is not recommended. It is entirely
unsuited for lawns.

No. 123. Holcua mollis Linn.

Fig. 50.— Velvet-grass (Hoi-
cus lanatu*).

('reei)ing Soft-grass.

Closely allied to Velvet-grass, and said to be similarly

well adapted to light, sandy forest lands. It is occasionally Ibiind in the East-
ern States, the seed having been introduced witii that of olher grasses from
Europe, as both Jfohim molViH and Ilolcim himitus are often used to adulterate
the seeds of more expensive grasses, especially the so-called prepared mixtures

43

of seedsmen. In Germany this grass is used on railway embankments, where
on the poor, thin soil its strong, creeping roots form a turf wliich holds the
earth together, thus preventing it from being washed or blown away.

No. 124. Hordeum jubatiim Linn. Squirrel-tail-grass. (Fig. 51.)
A rather slender annual or biennial, usually about a foot high, growing along the
sandy seashore, borders of the Great Lakes, and in the alkaline regions of the
West. The long, slender awns of the glumes are widely spreading, and. the head
or spike is thus given the appearaut-e of the "brush" of the fox, hence the com-
mon name, '"foxtail." This grass is sometimes recommended for cultivation for
ornament, and if the tops are cut off before the awns have expanded they may
be used for dry bouquets ; but the heads soon break up, and. for this reason the
srass is of little value even for ornament. It
has no agricultural value, and, in fact, where
it has s])read in the West, as it often does along
the irrigating ditches, it becomes a serious
pest. Hay containing this squirrel-grass is
considered nearly valueless. The sharp-pointed
joints of the spike, each with several long and
slender beards, stick fast in the nose and
mouth of horses and cattle, often penetrating
the flesh, and cases are reported where they
have caused the death of these animals.

No, 125. Hordeum murinum Linn. Wall Barley.

A coarse, tufted annual, 6 inches to 2 feet high, with
dense and somewhat flattened, bear<led spikes
2 to 4 inches long The beards or barbed awns
are 1 to li inches long and rather rigid. This
grass IS a native of Europe, and has been intro-
duced along the Pacific Coast, particularly in
California, where it has become a serious pest.
At maturity the head or spike readily breaks
up, and the groups of spikelets, which are sharp
pointed at the base, adhere to almost any jiass-
ing object; they work up the nostrils of cattle
and into the fleece of sheep, and may do in-
jury to the animals in much the same way as
the native Uordeum juhatum.

No. 126. Hordeum sativum Jessen. Barley.

Cultivated barley presents many varieties, pri- Fig. 51.— Siiuirrel-Uil-grass {Hordeum
marily divided into two-rowed, four-rowed, juhatum).

and six-rowed races. The varieties under these

races are based upon the varied characters presented bj'^ the head, beards, or grain.
All api>ear to have originated from Hordeum spontaneum Koch, which grow.s wild
in the conntries of southwestern Asia. Six-rowed barley has been in cultivation
since prehistoric times in southern Europe ; two-rowed barley is now largely cul-
tivated in England aud central Europe. The four-rowed barleys are of later
origin than the others, and are most generally cultivated in northern Europe and
in this country. The bailey crop of the United States for 1895 was 87,072,714
bushels, of which amount six States jtroduced over 73,000,000 bushels, California
leading with 19,023,678 bushels. Barley is the most important cereal of the far
north, some of the varieties being cultivated in Norway to latitude 70°. It is
employed in making bread also in northern Asia and Japan. Barley soup is an
article of diet in central Europe. From naked barley {Hordeum decurllcatum) a

44

luiicilaginous tea is prepared, used in medicine. The graiu is largely fed to
horses, both iu this couutry and in Europe, but the chief use is for brewing beer.
" Brewers grains," a by-product, both wet and dry, are fed to cattle, chiefly iu
the vicinity of breweries.

No. 127. Hydrochloa carolinensis Beauv. Floating-grass.

A slender aquatic grass of the Gulf States, growing along muddy banks and In
eliaUow streams. Tile steins are often 2 feet or more in length, and in shallow
water tlieir summits appear above the surface, while in water of greater depth

the uppermost leaves are
floating. The tender
stems and leaves are eat-
en by stock, and m:iy af-
ford some food for water-
fowl.

No. 128. Imperata arundi-
uacea Cyrill. Blady-grass.
A sand and soil binder com-
mon throughout the
warmer temperate and
tropical regions of both
hemispheres. It is a
stout, erect, leafy grass,
1 to 3 feet high, with sil-
very-white spike-like
panicles. The rootstocks
form a perfect network
of strong fibers, and iu
warm countries the grass
is recommended for bind-
ing river banks, the sides
of dams, and the loose
sands of the coast. This
grass is easily propagated
by root cuttings, an<^
might be utilized along
the Gulf Coast or along
the Lower Mississippi in
strengthening the levees.
In the Malay Archipelago
this Imperata is the prin-
cipal grass of the Alang
Alang fields, and is used
by the natives for thatch-
ing roofs. Cattle eat it when young with .-ippareut relish, .md in Bengal it
forms a very large portion of the pasturage. The Tclingas make use of it in
their nuirriage ceremonies. In western Texas and Arizona there is a native
species, Imperata hookeri (fig. 52), A^ery much like the one above described, iu
appearance and habit of growth. It grows naturally around the borders of
.•ill<aline sjiriniis.

No. 129. Isachne australis R. Br. Swamp Millet.

A sleinhir grass, (Tee])injx at the haav, the upright stems 1 to 2 feet high, with loose,
open panicles of very small spikelets. It is a native of southern .Vsia and Aus-
tralia, generally found growing alonj; the sides of stre.ims and on swampy
ground. It is said to be liked by cattle, and Mr. Fred Turner recommends it

Fia. 52. — Imperata hookeri; a to g, details of spikelet.

45

for planting on the banks of rivers or dams to protect them from injury hy heavy
rains or floods. The tmdcrground steins and roots quickly form a perfect mat
in tlie soil, and when once establislied they make a very firm turf. The grass
may be propagated by seeds or pieces of the root.

No. 130. Koeleria cristata (Linn.) Pers. Prairie June-grass.

This is a common grass upon the open meadows and phiins of the Central and West-
ern States, and extends beyond the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific Coast. It is
one of the "bunch-grasses" of the plains region, where it is generally associated
with the more common Buuch-grasa, I'oa hnclxleucina. On the dry bench lands
it is seldoui over a foot high,
but in irrigated ground grows
to the height of 2 feet or more,
and makes excellent hay. Its
cultivation is not to be recom-
mended where better grasses
may be had. However, it pos-
sesses some value for furnishing
early forage, and might be used
in reseediug the native pas-
tures.

No. 131. Lamarckia aurea
Moench. Golden-top.

A low annual, 3 to 12 inches high,
with flat leaves and elegant
one-sided panicles 2 to 3 inches
long. This very attractive and
favorite ornamental grass is a
native of southern Europe and
southwestern Asia. It is fre-
quently cultivated in gardens,
and is a pleasing grass for edg-
ings. It has escaped from cul-
tivation in southern California,
and has become apparently
spontaneous there.

No. 132. Lolium italicum A. lir.
Italian Rye- grass. (Fig. 53.)

A well-known and excellent grass
for rich and rather moist lands,
particularly for the Eastern
States. It is a very rapid grow-
er, forms a dense turf, and in
Euro])e, whence the grass was

introduced into this country, it is regarded as one of the best hay grasses. On
stiff, heavy clays or on very dry soil it does not do well; but on good, calcare-
ous loams or marls, or on moist, loamy sands, where the soil is in good condi-
tion, it is very productive, and no other grass rej^ays manuring so well. It is
not recommended for permanent pastures, as its duration is only two or three
years, but it is a most excellent species for temporary meadows. Few grasses
develop more rapidly than this, and where the soil is rich and its fertility
maintained by applications of liquid manure, cuttings may be obtained within
three or fonr weeks from seeding, and at intervals of a month or six weeks
successive crops may be harvested. Owing to its succulent character and rapid
growth, this makes one of the best grasses for soiling. Italian Rye-grass is at

Fig. .53. — Italir.n Kye-grass (Lolium italicu7n): a, spikp-
let; h, c, florets; d, e, cai'yopsis.

46

once (listingnished from any of the forms of perennial Rye-grass by its awned
or bearded spikelets. Adulterations of the seed of Italian Rye-grass are rare,
owing to its relative cheapness. The average purity of commercial seed is 95 per
cent, while the gcrminative power is 70 per cent. The germiuative iiower dimin-
ishes rapidly with the age of the seed. One pound of seed contains on an average
285,000 grains, and the weight per bushel varies, according to the quality, from 16
to 24 pounds. Three Ijushels of seed of average quality are required for sowing
an acre of land. The current price in the New York market is $10 per 100 pounds.

No. 133. Lolium perenne Linn. Perennial Rye-grass.

Perennial Rye-grass has been cultivated in England for more than 200 years, and is
therefore one of the oldest if not the very first grass gathered and cultivated

separately for agricultural purposes. It is indig-
enous to Europe, North Africa, and western Asia,
and was many years ago introduced into this
country from England. Here it has never been
so highly esteemed as in England, where the soil
and climate appear to be especially well adapted
to its growth. Moist and rich loams or clays are
the soils best suited to it. as with Italian Rye-
grass, it responds promptly to the application of
quick manures. For pastures on heavy soils in
moist climates it is especially valuable, and under
such conditions is largely used in mixtures for
permanent pastures. It is a good hay grass where
the conditions are favovable, but in this country
will never be so highly esteemed as Timothy.
Thtre are several varieties of perennial Rye-grass
recognized by agriculturists. Pacey's Perennial,
a vigorous form, is one of these. The average pu-
rity of perennial Rye-grass seed is given at 95 per
cent, and the germinative power at 75 per cent.
Good commercial seed should grade higher than
this. One pound of pure seed contains on an aver-
age .336,800 grains. Of course, where the seeds are
larger and heavier, this number would be consid-
erably less. The best seed weighs from 25 to 35
pounds per bushel, and 2 to 3 bushels of seed are
required per acre. The current retail price of
good seed is $8 per 100 pounds.

No. 134. Lolium temulentum Linn. Darnel.

An annual grass, 2 to 3 feet high, having a general re-
semblance to Italian Rye-grass, bnt usually stouter, more strictly erect, with
longer glumes and larger seeds. It has been introduced into this country with
the seeds of other grasses, and is occasionally met with in grain fields and
about dwellings. The grain contains a narcotic or jjoisonous principle, which
causes eruptions, treinbling, and vertigo in man and llesh-eating animals. If
the seeds are malted with barley, the ah' causes intoxicition very suddenly. It
is contended by some that perfectly liealthy Darnel seeds are innocuous— that
only grains which are ergotized or otherwise diseased are injurious.

No. 135. Manisuris. Rat-tail-grass.

The native species of Manisuris an? branching, leafy perennials, with slender, cylin-
drical, many-jointed spikes, which readily break up. They are found chiclly in
the pine-barren swanqis of the Gulf States. They areof little agricultural value
in this country. Manisuris compreasa, a native of southern Asia, south Africa,

Fio.

54. — Perennial Rye-grass

( Lolium perenne).

47

and Australia, where it is called Mat-grass, has creeping or ascending flattened
stems, rather short leaves, and slender spikes. In some parts of Australia it is
highly esteemed for pasturage, and is said to retain its greenness throughout
the year in dry climates. It is not injured by light frosts. The prostrate stems
sometimes attain a length of 5 or fi feet. A closely related
species, M. fascicidata, occurs on the lower Rio Grande.

No. 136. Melinis minutiflora Beauv. Molasses-grass.

A sweet and highly nutritious species, and the most esteemed
of the grasses of central Brazil, where it is native, grow-
ing upon the hills and dry lands. It is regarded a most
excellent grass for dairy cows, and deserves a trial in the
Southern and Southwestern States and California. The
Brazilian names for this grass are "Capim mellado" and
"Capim (jordura." The English name given above is a
translation of these. This species occurs also in Ascension
Islaiul, Natal, and Madagascar.

No. 137. Muhlenbergia diffusa Schreb. Nimble AVill.

(Fig. 5.5.)
A low, slender, diffusely branched grass growing on dry hills,

in woods, and especially in shady,

waste grounds about dwellings.

The leafy, wiry stems, which are

from 6 to 18 inches long, spring

from extensively creeping and

ra.ther tough rhizomes, which make

a turf very difficult to break up.

When young, this grass is readily

eaten by all kinds of stock, but

after it matures it is so tough that

few animals will touch it. It pos-
sesses really very little agricultural

A-alue, and some look upon it rather

as a weed. It is a native from

southern New England to lowa^
Michigan, and southward, blooming in the latter part of
summer.

No. 138. Muhlenbergia distichophylla Kth. Bearded

Saccaton.
This is a strong, firmly rooted grass, 3 to 4 feet high, with

rather long and rigid leaves, and a narrow panicle often

exceeding a foot in length. It is frecjuent in the rich

valleys in Arizona and New Mexico, and on rich bottom

lands it is often cut for hay. It is a coarse grass, like

Sporoholua icrighiii, and by the settlers is classed witli

it under the general name of Saccaton. In Arizona it

forms the more common "hay" that one finds in the towns

and Avay stations, being pulled by the Mexicans or Indi-
ans and brought in on the backs of donkeys or on carts.

There are many species of Muhlenbergia in the south

western part of the United States and northern Mexico,

and doubtless many of them are of considerable agricultural value. 2InhJenhe)-gia

rireacens is a soft and leafy species growing in clumps on the higher slopes of the

mountains in Arizona, and with Poa fendleriana forms the chief herbage of the

so-called "deer parks" of the mountains. (Pringle.)

Fw. 55.— Nimblo Will
{Muhlenbergia dif-
fusa).

Fig. E6. — Knot-root "rass
{Muhlenbergia mexi-
cana).

48

No. 139. Miihlenbergia mexicana (Linn.) Trin. Knot-root grass. (Fig. 56.)

A mnch-liiaucbed, leafy iieremiial, 2 to 3 feet higli, with strong, scaly, creeping root-
stocks, which often do good service in binding river banks, along which this
grass frequently grows. In the Northeastern States this grass is common in low
meadows, where it occasionally forms a considerable proportion of the native
hay of snch places. If cut before the stems have become woody, which they do
after Howering, the hay produced is of good quality. It ranges from New Eng-
land southward to the Gulf and westward to the Rocky Mountains. In the
Eastern States it blooms in August.

No. 140. Muhlenbergia porteri Scrlbn. Wire grama.

This grass is a native of New Mexico and Arizona, erowins
on the dry mesas and table-lands. It has a strasrirlino'
habit of growth. The stems are 1 to 2 feet long, much
branched, and often matted together. It furnishes ex-
cellent feed for cattle in the regions where it srows,
and yields good hay, which is harvested in considerable
abundance by the ranchmen. It withstands drought
.very Mell, but is soon run out under the continued
trampling of cattle.

No. 141. Muhlenbergia pungens Thurb. Blow-out grass.

A rather rigid perennial, 12 to 18 inches high, vrith firm
sharp-pointed leaves and open panicles. It has strong,
creeping roots, and often does good service as a sand
binder. In the sand-hills region of Nebraska it grows
abundantly around the borders of the so-called "blow-
outs," preventing their extension and assisting mate-
rially in restoring the turf. In some parts of Arizona
where it occurs it is esteemed a valuable forage plant.
It grows from Nebraska southward to New Mexico and
Arizona, and along the Colorado River above Fort Yuma.

No. 142. Muhlenbergia racemosa (Michx.) B. S. P. Wild
Timothy. (Fig. .57.)

An upright, usually 8])aringly branched perennial, 2 to 3
feet high, with densely llowered, narrow panicles 2 to
4 inches long, often resembling those of timothy. The
rootstocks are very tough, and closely covered with
thickened scales. It frequents bogs and low grounds
from New England westward to the Rocky Mountains,
extending southward to Tennessee, New Mexico, and

Texas. It is little prized in the E.ast, but in the Northwestern States is recom-

nn'ndcfl as an excellent grass for hay.

No. 143. Opizia stolonifera Presl, Mexican Lawn-grass.

An extensively creeping, dio-cious grass, the very slender, ]u-ostrate stems sending
uji leafy tufts 1 to 4 inches high. Similar in habit to Bermuda, but mor<' deli-
cate. According to Dr. E. Palmer, this is one of the most important grasses of
Mexico. Growing dose to the ground, it forms a tliick sod over all exposed snr-
faci's, even ov(!r the cobblestones in the streets of towns, it is used in the public
squares with good effect. By regular watering it is easily kept green, and but
little cutting is necessary. The seed is diOicult to obtain, owing to the constant
nibbling of domestic animals. Proj>agation by cuttings of the rooting, pros-
trate stems is probably the best mcth<id. Trials with this grass ought to bo
undertaken in the Southern States, both lor lawns and iiastures.

Fic
(J/

57. — Wild Timothy
uhlenberjia racemosa.)

49

No. 144. Oplismentis setarius R. & S. Creeping Beard-grass.

A slender perennial of the Gulf States, with decumbent or creeping stems, and short
and rather broad leaves. It possesses no recognized agricultural value, but as it
grows naturally under the dense shade of trees it might be used for covering the
ground in shady places where other grasses will not thrive. It can be propagated
by pieces of the stem, which root at the joints, and if cared for, will in a short
time make a good turf. A closely allied grass of similar habit of growth, with
variegated leaves, is often grown in greenhouses for its ornamental appearance.

No. 145. Oryza sativa Linn. Rice.

A tropical or subtropical, semiaquatic grass, the grain of which is the staple food of
one-third of the human race. It is most extensively cultivated in southern Asia,
China, and Japan. The annual produce of these countries is estimated at
100,000,000 tons. The rice-growing districts of China support the densest popu-
lation in the world. In this counti-y rice is cultivated iu the States of South
Carolina, Georgia, Louisiana, and Texas. The estimate of the crop of cleaned
rice produced in Louisiana in 1895 was 82,436,832 pounds. " Paddy " is the grain
in the husk. There are many varieties of rice, distinguished by color or size of
the grain, absence or presence of beards, etc. There are two classes known as
"lowland rice" and "upland rice." The latter is cultivated to some extent in
western Tennessee. Rice straw is used for making paper.

No. 146. Oryzopsis asperifolia Michx. Mountain Rice.

A perennial, 6 to 18 inches high, with very long basal leaves overtopping the stems.
Thisgrowsinrich, open woods, upon hillsides, from New England to Minnesota and
northward. It is one of the early blooming species, flowering in May and ripen-
ing its seed in .June and July. The leaves remain green throughout the winter.

No. 147. Oryzopsis melaiiocarpa Muhl. Black-fruited Mountain Rice.

A rather stout, long- aud broad-leafed grass, 2 to 3 feet high, with a simple panicle
of a few rather large spikelets. Grows in rich, rocky woods from New England
southward to Pennsylvania and westward to the Rockv Mountains, bloomiuirin
July and August. These species of Oryzopsis have no recognized agricultural
value, but they are very hardy perennials and might be propagated .o advantage
in woodland parks.

No. 148. Oryzopsis micrantha Thurb. Small Indian Millet.

A perennial, quite widely distributed throughout the central and western counties
of the Dakotas and in eastern Montana. It grows in dry, sandy soil, and though
tough and wiry, is nutritious and is considered a valuable grass.

No. 149. Oryzopsis miliacea (Linn.) Hack. Many-flowered Millet-grass.

A perennial, 2 to 3 or 4 feet high, with a many- and small-flowered nodding panicle,
6 to 12 inches long. It is a native of central and southern Europe, growing iu
dry, open woods and thickets. Was introduced into California in 1879, and has
been cultivated experimentally with varying success at a number of points in
that State. On the granitic soil of San Diego, California, it has grown 3 feet high
without irrigation, and remained green throughout the year. Horses and cattle
are said to eat it greedily. In Europe it is not regarded as possessing much, if
any, agricultural value.

No. 150. Panicularia americana (Torr.) MacM. Reed Meadow-grass.

A stout, erect, leafy perennial, 3 to 4 feet high, with long, rather broad leaves, and a
large, nodding panicle. It is common iu the northern Middle States and south-
ward along the mountains to Tennessee and North Carolina, extending westward
to the Rocky Mountain region. It grows along streams and in moist meadows,
and in such places often forms a considerable portion of the native hay. It is
liked by cattle and is a good pasture grass for wet lands.
4393— No. 14 4

50

No. 151. Panicularia canadensis (Miclix.) Kuntze. Rattlesuake-grass. (Fig. 58.)
A grass similar in lialiit to the last and growing in similar situations in the Northern
States, extending southward to Pennsylvania and westward to Kansas. It is
less common than F. americana. It has received no attention from the agricul-
turist. The nodding panicles of rather large spikelets are sometimes gathered
for dry bouquets.

No. 152. Panicularia fluitans (Linn.) Kuntze. P^loating Manna-grass. (Fig. .59.)
This grass grows to the height of from 3 to 5 feet, and has a narrow panicle composed
of rather few long and narrow or cylindrical spikelets. It is a cosmopolitan
species, found in all temperate regions of the world, and is regarded as one of
the best fodder grasses for swampy meadows. In some parts of Europe the
seeds are gathered and used for human food in the form of soups and gruels.

Fig. .'•)8. — Rattlesnake-gr.iss {Panicularia cana-
dinsis).

Fig. .59.— Floating ^rannagT-ass {Panicularia
Jill) tans).

No. 153. Panicularia nervata (Willd.) Kuntze. Fowl ^Meadow-grnss. (Fig. 00.)
A leafy jterennial, 1 to 3 feet high, with expanded nodding panicles of small spike-
lets. This is a common species in low meadows and moist grounds, extending
from New England southward to the Gulf States and westward to the Pacific
coast. It is a good fodder plant for moist meadows. Varies greatly in size,
according to soil and location. I'anicnluria amcrivana and J'aniciilciria nerrata
furni.sh food for water fowl during the fall migrations and are valuable in game
preserves along with Zizania aquatica.

No. 154. Panicum agrostoides Muhl. Munro-grass. (Fig. 61.)
A native perennial, with branching, leafy stems, 2 to 4 feet high, and a panicle
resembling that of Kedtop. It grows in low meadows and along tlie banks of
creeks, shores of ponds, etc., and often yields a large amount of very good native

51

hay. In low, moist, and rather rich meadows its cultivation would doubtless
be profitable, and it is certainly deserving of a trial in such locations.

No. 155. Panicum aniarum Ell. Bitter Panic-grass. (Fig. 62.)

A grass of the sandy seacoasts, ranging from Connecticut southward to Florida and
along the Gulf. It has coarse, hard stems, 1 to 5 feet high, and strong, creeping
rootstocks, making it an excellent sand binder. The islands oft" the coast of
Mississipj)i are almost wholly made up of drift sands, the outer sides being
dunes from 10 to 30 feet high, while the middle of the islands is usually low and
occupied by swamps or lakes. This bitter panic is very abundant upon the out-
side of these dunes, where it is exposed to the winds and waves, and where
it serves to eft'ectually bind the otherwise shifting sands. The leaves and stems
have a bitter taste, hence the common name.

_n^ig^i^

Fifj. 60. — Fowl Meadow-grass
{Panicularia nervata).

Fig. 61 — Munro grass
(Panicitm aiiroitoi-
des).

Fig. 62.— Bitter Panic-grass ( Pan
icum amarum) .

No. 156. Panicum capillare Linn. Old Witch-grass.

An annual, with usually coarse, branching stems, 1 to 3 feet long, hairy leaf sheaths,
and widely spreading panicles. Grows in cultivated grounds, where it often
becomes a somewhat troublesome weed. Being an annual, however, it is easily
eradicated. Possesses no value for fodder excepting for fall feed on stubble.

No. 157. Paiiicuni ciliatissimum Buckl. Indian Wheat.

A more or less extensively creeping perennial, with short leaves and upright flowering
stems, 6 to 18 inches high. The panicles are narrow and few flowered, and in
the prostrate forms usually partly included within the leaf sheaths. This grass
is a native of western Texas, and doubtless possesses some agricultural value for
the drier regions of the Southwest. The creeping stems resemble somewhat
those of Bermuda-grass, but the leaves are usually more crowded and broader
in proportion to their length.

52

No. 158. Panicum colonum Linn. Sliama Millet.

A native of the tropical and warmer temperate regions of the Old World. In
northern India it is considered one of the best fodder grasses. Introduced into
the Southern and Southwestern States, where it is occasionally found in waste
grounds about dwellings. It is closely related to Panicum crus-gaUi, differing
from that grass in its smaller size and more simple inflorescence. The stems
and leaves are .tender and readily eaten by stock. In India the grain, which
is produced abundantly, is sold in the markets and used for food.
No. 159. Panicum crus-galli Linn. Barnyard-grass. (Fig. 63.)
This well-known annual of rank growth is common in rich, cultivated ground, espe-
cially around dwellings. There are several forms presented by this species.

That growiug as a weed around barn-
yards and dwellings, in cultivated
grounds in the Atlantic States, was
probably introduced from Europe.
There are, however, several native varie-
ties, or possibly good species. One of
these occurring in the brackish marshes
or meadows along the seacoast, grows to
the height of 3 to 5 feet, with the lower
leaf sheaths very hirsute, and the spike-
lets long-awned. A tall, smooth form
occurs in New Mexico, Arizona, and the
Mohave desert region, springing up after
the summer rains in all swampy places
or lowlands. It grows to the height of 6
or 7 feet, and its seeds, which it produces
abundantly, are collected by the Mohave
Indians, ground into dour, and cooked
for food. The poorer classes of India
also use the grain for food. A variety
introduced from .Japan has been culti-
vated at some of the experiment stations
and treated as a millet. At the Hatch
Experiment Station, in Massachusetts,
the crop produced was very uniform,
averaging 7 feet in height. The yield
was at the rate of 11,207 pounds of straw
per acre and 60.7 bushels of seed. When
sown for silage or for soiling at the rate
of one peck of seed to the acre, the yield
was at the rate of from LI to 18 tons per acre. A field sown July 26, after a crop
of hay was removed, yielded 12 tons ].(r acre. It is very much liked by stock,
and is a valuable forage plant for feeding green or for the silo. It is not so well
adapted for liay, as it is a coarse, succulent grass, and rather dififlcult to dry.
No. 160. Panicum digitarioides Carpenti^r. Maiden Cane.

A rathei coarse grass, 2 to 4 feet high, growing along ditches, in swamps, and in

moist sands from Delaware soiitliward to Florida and along the Gulf near the

coast. It has strong and widely spreading or creeping rootstocks, which are

useful in l)in<ling sandy railroad embankments in the Southern and Gulf States.

No. 161. Panicum fasciculatum S\v. Hrown-top.

A rather coarse and much-l)ranched leafy auiuial, growing in clumps to the height
of 2 to 3 feet. The leaves are flat, one-fourth to one-half an inch wide, and 2 to
6 inches long. It is a native of Texas and Florida. Similar m character and
closely allied botanically to ranUitm texanum.

Fig. 63 — Barnyard-grass (.Panicum crus-galli).

53

No. 162. Panicum lachnanthum Torr. Arizona Cotton-grass.

This is a native of the dry regions of Arizona and New Mexico. It resembles Pani-
cum hmatum, but has more slender stems, which ii.se from strong, woolly, and
knotted rootstocks. This may prove to be a valuable pasture grass for the dry
or semiarid regions of the Southwest.

No. 163. Panicum lanatum Rottb. Cotton-grass.

A variable species widely distributed throughout the tropical regions of both hemi-
spheres. It is a perennial with slender or stont stems 1 to 3 feet high, usually
with Hat leaves and narrow panicles, the spikelets being densely clothed with
long silky or cottony hairs, which are white, or sometimes brownish or purplish.
When abundant this grass yields excellent pasturage. It has been found in
southern Florida and at other points near
the Gulf coast. There is a variety of this
species growing in the dry regions of Ari-
zona and New Mexico which has more slen-
der stems, that spring from strong woolly
and knotted rhizomes. Doubtless this form
would be a valuable pasture grass for the
dry or semiarid regions where it is native.

No. 164. Panicum maximum Jacq. Guinea-
grass. (Fig. 64.)

This grass was long ago introduced into Amer-
ica, presumably from tropical Africa, and
has lor many years been cultivated iu trop-
ical South America and the West Indies.
In these regions it is spoken of as being a
splendid pasture grass, growing to the
height of 12 feet, forming dense tufts. It
is readily propagated by cuttings of the
creeping rootstocks. It has been intro-
duced into some of the Gulf States, par-
ticularly Florida, where it is highly valued.
Few grasses yield a larger amount of fod-
der, and it may be cut as often as once a
month during the growing season. If
allowed to attain its full size it becomes
coarse and unfit for forage. Its stems are
killed by the first frosts of autumn. It
seeds only in the warmest parts of the
States bordering the Gulf. It is much less
hardy than .lohnson-grass, with which it has been confounded by some, and has
quite a distinct habit of growth.

No. 165. Panicum miliaceum Linn. Broom-corn Millet.

A rather coarse annual, attaining a height of 2 to 4 feet, with large, drooping,
loosely flowered panicles. There are several varieties, distinguished by the
color of the fruit or character of the ijanicle. This is the true millet which has
been cultivated in the East from prehistoric times, so that now its native coun-
try is not known. It is still cultivated to a considerable extent in China and
Japan, also in South Russia and Roumania, and to a limited extent in other
parts of Europe and North Africa. It requires a rich soil, and under favorable
conditions its growth is very rapid and its production of seed large, in some
instances amounting to 60 or 70 bushels to the acre. The grain is nutritious,
and is one of the best for feeding poultry. When ground, the flour makes a

Fig. 64. — Gninea-grass (Panicum maxi-
mwjn.) .

64

rich and nutritions porridge, for which purpose it is chiefly used in the eastern
couiitrits where the grass is grown. In uortiiern India, where the grain is
hirgely used, a preparation of it constitutes a favorite food at marriage cere-
monies. Owing to its rapid and somewhat succulent growth, it is an excellent
soiling plant. It has, however, l>een little cultivated in this country, lint is occa-
sionally found in the older settlements in cultivated liclds and waste grounds
about dwellings. The number of grasses termed millets in various i)arts of the
world is large, and includes many very ditt'erent species, whose grain, however,
is used for human food. Most of the so-called millets belong to the genera
Chdlochloa, I'anicum, and I'aspalum. They form the principal food grains of the
natives of many parts of Africa and Asia. It has been estimated that the
millets feed one-third of the human race.

No. 166. Panicum molle Sw. Para-grass.

A rather coarse, reed-like perennial, 1 to (> feet high, with hairy nodes, and narrow,
lax i)anicles, 6 to 8 inches long. It is cultivated in .South America, and in the
West Indies and Mexico, and has been introduced into some of the Gulf States.
It is grown with success on the high ]»ine ridges of I'lorida, and wherever culti-
vated it is most highly esteemed ami regarded as a very fattening pasture grass.
How far to the north this grass may be grown successfully does not ajjpear to
have been determined, but it is hardy at the Cape of Good Hope and other far
extra tropical regions (Baron von Mueller). It is propagated either by seeds or
root cuttings.

No. 167. Panicum obtusum H. li. K. ^'ine Mesquit.

A stolouifcrous grass, the runners attaining a length of 8 to 10 feet, the upright
dowering culms 12 to 24 inches high. This grass ranges from Colorado to Texas,
New ilexico, Arizona, and southward into Mexico. It is usually found in irri-
gated lands or in the low, damp soil of the valleys, most frequently under the
shade of trees and shrubs. No attempts have been made to cultivate this grass,
l)ut its appearance and habit of growth indicate an agricultural value of suflS-
cient importance- to call for experiments in its cultivation. In New Mexico this
species is called "Wire-grass."

No. 168. Panicum plicatum Lam. Palm-leafed Grass.

A broad-leafed perennial, 3 to 4 feet high or more, native of India. The leaves are
elegantly striate and usually i)licate, giving to the grass an unusual and at the
same time attractive apjiearance. It is a favorite ornamental for greenhouse
culture.

No. 169. Panicum proliferum Lam. Sprouting Crab-grass.

A smooth and usually much-branched native annual, with rather coarse, spreading or
ascen<ling stems 2 to 6 feet long, tlat leaves, and difluse terminal and lateral
panicles. It grows naturally in moist, rich soil along the banks of streams and
rivers, around the shores of ]ionds and lakes, and in the South is often abundant
in rich, cultivated liebls, growing willi Crab-grass. The stout, succulent stems
are Hweetisb and niucii liked by horses and cattle. Its range is from Maine to
Nebraska, and southward to the Gulf, blo.ssomiug in the latter part of summer (»r
eiirly autumn. The HiMiiitaneous growth of this gr.iss in cultivated lields after
the removal of croj)S is ol some value tor hay or pasturage, but its cultivation can
not bo recommended in view of the fact that we hav'e many annual gnisses much
superior to it. In the Northern and Middle States it is classed with the weeds.

No. 170. Panicum repeus Linn. Creejjiiig Panic.

An extensively creeping grsiss, with rather stiff upright stems, 1 to 2 feet high or
less. It is common in the maritime districts in southern Asia, northern Africa,

55

southern Europe, and Australia. It is also found along the shores of the South-
ern States bordering the Gulf, extending westward to Mexico. It has no agri-
cultural value, but is a natural sand binder. Upon the sandy islands lying off
the Gulf Coast it grows abundantly upon the outside of dunes, protecting tlieni
from the action of the winds and waves.
No. 171. Panicum sanguinale Linn. Crab-grass.

(Fig. 65.)
A well-known annual, common in nearly all parts of the
United States, growing in cultivated fields and
about dwellings. It is a weed in gardens and among
hoed crops. In grain fields after harvest it fre-
quently^ springs up in such quantity, particularly
in the Southern States, as to yield one or even two
good cuttings of hay. This spontaneous growth
affords excellent pasturage, as well as hay of first
quality if properly cured. The stems are much
branched, and in good soil attain a length of 3 to 4
feet. This grass contains little fiber, and dries
quickly when cut, but if after cutting it is wet by
rains or heavy dews its value for hay is almost
wholly destroyed. In Bohemia, Crab-grass is

cultivated upon

sandy soils and the

grain is used for

food in the form of

mush or porridge.

No. 172. Panicum sero-
tinum (Michx.) Trin.

Fig. 65.— Crab-grass (Panicum
saiKjiiinale) .

Little Crab-grass. (Fig. 66.)

A species related to Crab-grass {Panicum mnguinah),
common in the Southern States near the Gulf, dis-
puting with Louisiana-grass the claim of being
the most valuable native pasture grass of that
section. It is probably a biennial. It is much
like Crab-grass, sending out leafy, creeping shoots
at every joint, but is smaller in every way, with
shorter and more hairy leaves of a lighter green
color. It is invaluable for pasturage, forming a
close turf, and driving out nearly all other plants.
It grows best in sandy soil where there is a little
moisture.

No. 173. Panicum spectabile Nees. Angola-grass.

A stout grass, 3 to 5 feet high, with rather broad and
long (1 to 2 feet) leaves, and a terminal, densely
dowered, compound and narrow spike 8 to 10
inches long. Imported iuto South America many
years ago from the west coast of Africa (the region
of Angola). It is cultivated ou the low lands in
the eastern part of Brazil, particularly in the
region of Rio de Janeiro, where it is called
"Capim d' Angola." This Panicum is closely related to and resembles some
forms of Barnyard-grass (/'. crus-yalli). It is spoken of as an extremely
productive and nutritious fodder-grass, and may prove valuable for the low
regions along the Gulf coast.

FiH. 66.— Creeping Crab-grass
(Panicum serotinum).

56

No. 174. Panicum sulcatum Aubl. Palm-T.eafed-yrass.

A South Amoricau perennial, 4 to 6 iect high, with pahu-like leaves 1 to 2 inches
broad and 16 to 20 inches long, and long, terminal, narrow panicles which taper
above and below. The leaves of this grass are deeply sulcate or plicate, like
those of the Indian /*. jjJicatum. Sometimes cultivated for ornament in green-
houses or upon lawns.

No. 175. Panicum texanum Buckl. Colorado-grass. (Fig. (i7.)

A branching, leafy annual, 2 to 4 feet high, with a narrow panicle 6 to 8 inches long
terminating the main stem and branches. It is nutritious, of rapid growth, and
upon good soil yields a large amount of excellent hay, and may be cut twice or
even three times during the season. It reseeds itself readily. It prefers ricli,

i'lu. 07.— Colorailo-;rra88 (Panicum
lexanvm).

Fig. 08. — Switch grass {Panicum
virgattnn).

alluvial soil along river bottoms, etc., and upon such land withstands drought
well. In certain parts of Texas, particularly in the counties along the Colorado
Kiver, in the; central part of the State, where it appears to be native and where
it often comes up in cultivated fields after the removal of corn or other grain
croi>8, it is s])oken of in the highest terms as a hay-producing grass.

No. 176. Panicum virgatum Linn. Switch-grass. (Fig. 68.)

A tall, native perennial, 3 to 5 feet high, with strong, creeping rootstocks, long, Hat
leaves, and ami)le, spreading )ianiclt's. When young this affords good grazing,
but .-it maturity the stems become hard and practitally worthless for fodder. It
ranges from Maine southward to tlits Gulf and westward to the Rocky Mountains.
It is particularly common near tlu^ coast in sandy soil bordering the marshes,
and oftentimes plays an important parttliere, in preveutiug the drifting of sands

57

by the wiiuls or the washing of soils by overflows aud high tides. On good
lands it is very productive, and if cut before the stems have become hard yields
a large amount of hay of very good quality.

No. 177. Pappophorum laguroideum Schrad.

A handsome ornamental, 3 to 5 feet high, with narrow, plume-like panicles a foot or
more long. It is a native of Mexico, and has been successfully grown from seed
on the grounds of the Department of Agriculture. It is worthy of introduction
as an ornamental for gardens aud lawns because of the beauty of its pale straw-
colored panicles.

No. 178. Pappophorum wrightii S. Wats. Purple-grass.

A slender and apparently annual grass of western Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona,
growing on the open plains and
among the foothills of the moun-
tains. It has short, narrow leaves
and narrow, densely flowered
heads or panicles, which are
softly bearded and grayish or
l^urplish. It is said to be fuUy
equal to Grama or Buffalo-grass
innutritive value, and more pala-
table to horses or mules.

No. 179. Paspalum bosciauum
Fliigge. Purple Paspalum.

A rather stout perennial with ascend-
ing branching stems, 2 to 3 feet
high, long, flat leaves, and numer-
ous racemes crowded near the
summit of the culm and its
branches. It is a native of the
Southern States, growing in moist
grounds, preferring rather heavy
soils. Like other species of Pas-
palum, it grows in tufts and
often occurs covering consider-
able areas to the exclusion of
other grasses. It yields a good
bulk of sweet hay, but is rather
slow in drying.

No. 180. Paspalum compressum
(Sw.) Nees. Carpet-grass.

A slender, erect, or more frequently
prostrate and extensively creep-
ing perennial, rooting at the
nodes, and sending up numerous
leafy, flower-bearing branches,
6 to 24 inches hinrh. The verv
slender racemes or spikes borne at or near the summit of the stems are 1 to 3
inches long. The prostrate creeping stems spread rapidly, and soon form a dense,
carpet like growth, crowding out all other vegetation. It withstands protracted
drought, grows well on almost any soil, and in the more southern districts is
evergreen, yielding good pasturage both summer and winter. It is regarded as
one of the most valuable native pasture grasses of the regions bordering the Gulf,
and is a most excellent lawn grass, superior to Bermuda and less difficult to
eradicate. It is found in the warmer regions of both North and South America.
It is readily propagated by sets and seeds.

Fig. 69. — Carpet-grass {Paspalum coinprcssrtm): a,
attachment ofspikelets to racliis; b and c, spikelets;
d, floret.

58

No. 181. Paspalum dilatatum Poir. Large Water-grass.

A rather coarse leafy perennial, growing in clumps 2 to 5 feet high, bearing near
the summit of the stems two to ten, more or less spreading racemes or spikes of

crowded, hairy spikelets. It is a native of Brazil and
possibly was originally introduced into the Southern
States (where it has become ([uite widely distributed)
from that country, although it may be a native here.
It ranges northward from the Gulf to southern Virginia
and Tennessee, and westward to Texas, growing most
abundantly on low, black soils, which are well supplied
with moisture. It is considered an excellent pasture
grass, and when well established endures seasons of ex-
cessive drought without injury. It is particularly val-
uable as furnishing excellent late summer and autumn
feed, during which period it makes its principal growth.

No. 182. Paspalum distichum Linn. Knot-grass. (Fig. 70.)
A low creeping species, resembling Bermuda-grass. It is
common in the Southern States along the seacoast and
in the interior, extending southward from Virginia to the
Gulf, and westward to Texas, Arizona, southern Cali-
fornia, and northward to Oregon. It occurs throughout
the tropical regions of both the Old and New Worlds. It
grows in more or less
sandy soils around the
margins of ponds and
along river banks. In
such places it often
does good service in
binding soils subject
to wash. The grass
can well be recom-
mended for this use.

Its stems are somewhat succulent, extensively

creeping, rooting at the nodes. The leaves

are tender, affording excellent grazing. The

upright stems are a few inches to a foot high,

and bear at their summits two slender spikes.

This character at once serves to distinguish

it from Bermuda, which has several spikes at

the apex of the flowering culms.

No. 183. Paspalum laeve Michx. Smooth Pas-
palum. (Fig. 71.)
A tufted native perennial, with ascending or

erect 8t((ms, 1 to 3 feet long, liat leaves, and

two to five, more or Ifss spreading spikes, 2

to 1 inches long. Common in the Middle and

Southern States, growing in open fields,

meadows, etc., usually where the ground is

somewhat moist. It is a late summer grass,

blossoming from .July to October. Well liked

by all ivinds of stock. In cultivated grounds,

and particularly on lawns, which it occasionally invades, it must tee classed as

a weed.

Fig. 70. — Knot-grass {Pas-
palum dintichum).

Fio. 71.— Smooth P.ispalum (Patpalum

lii'Ve).

f

59

No. 184. Paspalum scrobiculatum Linn. Ditch Millet.

A smooth uniiuul, with branching, erect or ascending steins, 2 feet high or more.
Widely distribnted throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of both
hemispheres. In northern India this grass is cultivated throughout the plains-
region as a "rainy-season crop," It is usually sown on the poorer kinds of soil,
the grain being chiefly consumed by the lower classes. The straw is used for
fodder. (Duthie.) A variety of P. scrobiculatum, called "hureek'' in India,
which is perhaps the Ghohana-grass, an Indian species reputed poisonous, is said
to render the milk of cows that graze iipon it narcotic and drastic. (Lindley.)

No. 185. Pennisetum japonicum Trin.

Erect, with flattened simple stems, 1 to 2 feet.high, very narrow leaves, and compara-
tively loosely flowered purplish or yellowish nodding panicles. A native of
Japan. Occasionally cultivated as a curiosity or for ornament.

No. 186. Pennisetum latifolium Spreng.

A rather broad-leafed ornamental perennial, 3 to 5 feet high, branching above, with
greenish rather dense panicles U to 2 inches long. Native of Uruguay and
Argentina. In the latter country it is used for covering roofs of houses. Occa-
sionally found cultivated here as an ornamental grass. It forms large tufts and
is easily propagated by the roots or seeds. It may possess some value as a
forage plant.

No. 187. Pennisetum macrourum Trin.

A South American species, with unbrauched stems, 3 to 4 feet high, and densely
flowered, cylindrical, yellowish panicles 6 to 8 inches long. Cultivated occa-
sionally for its odd and ornamental appearance.

No. 188. Pennisetum spicatum. Pearl Millet.

An annual of luxuriant growth, 6 to 10 feet high, with long, broad leaves, stout
culms, and terminal, erect, cylindrical, dense spikes 6 to 12 inches long, closely
resembling those of the common cat-tail of the marshes. It is a native of the
East, where it has been cultivated for its grain for many years. It is an impor-
tant agricultural grass of Central Africa. It requires a rich loose soil to obtain
the best growth, and under favorable conditions produces an enormous (xuantity
of green fodder, for which purjiose it can be cut several times during the season.
It does not dry out readily and is often difficult to cure into hay. It has been
cultivated with success as far North as Pennsylvauia and in many parts of the
South for a good many years. It is best sown in drills, about 2 feet apart, and
5 to 6 pounds of seed are required per acre. The weight of good seed per bushel
is 56 pounds. The current price is $12 to $14 per 100 pounds.

No. 189. Pennisetum villosum Brown.

An Abyssinian species which has been introduced into cultivation because of its
ornamental appearauce. It grows to the height of 1 or 2 feet, has long narrow
leaves, and dense, oblong or cylindrical, finely bearded heads 2 to 4 inches
long. It is a hardy ])erennial, graceful and attractive in appearance, and is very
frecjuently cultivated as an ornamental under the name oi Pennisetum ton<iistylum.

No. 190. Phalaris arundinacea Linn. Reed Canary-grass. (PI. Ill, fig. 3.)
A tall, leafy perennial, 2 to 4 feet high, from a creeping rootstock, with smooth
sheaths and narrow, branching panicles 4 to 8 inches long. It is a native^ com-
mon on low, wet grounds, from New England southward to Tennessee, and
extending across the continent to California and Washington. It is native also
in Europe and northern Asia. It is little affected by either drought or cold, and
thrives well in the shade. It succeeds best on stiff, wet land, and on wet,
flooded fields and will grow fairly well upon rather dry, sandy soil. The root-
stocks are very strong and creep extensively, making this grass particularly
valuable for binding banks of rivers and ditches where the water supply is

60

amplf. It does not attain its full size until the second year, and if designed for
hay should be cut before flowering, for when fully mature the stems become
woody and are too hard to make good fodder. The seed, which matures in July
and August, is easily gathered. Good seed should have 95
per cent purity and 60 per cent gi-rmination. It may be prop-
agated by seed or by cuttings of the rootstocks, these being
laid down at intervals of 1 foot, and slightly covered. The
retail price of seed quoted in the New York market is ,$35 per
100 ))ouiid8. A variety with white-striped leaves, called Rib-
l)on-grass, is cultivated in gardens for ornament.

No. 191. Phalaris canariensis Linn. Canary-grass. (Fig. 72.)
An erect annual, 1 to 3 feet high, with flat leaves, and dense, ovoid
jianicles or heads about an inch long. This grass is aj)))ar-
eutly a native of the wanner countries of Europe, also of
north Africa and western Asia. It has become widely dis-
tributed throughout the warmer temperate and tropicaL re-
gions of the world, including Australia. Cultivated in Ger-
many and southern Europe. It has been introduced into this
country, and is occasionally cultivated for its seeds, which
are used for bird food. The flour from the seeds is utilized in
certain processes of cotton manufacture
(weaver's glue), and is even employed
in the making of some kinds of cake. It
is frequently met with in waste grounds
Fig. 72.— Canary- about dwellings in the vicinity of

grass U-halaris toy^riii.

canariensis) .

No. 192. Phalaris caroliniana Walt.
Southern Canary-grass ; Apache Timothy.

This and J'halaris (imjusta (Fig. 73) have usually been regarded
as one species, the latter as a variety with more elongated
heads and rather stouter growth. Both the species and
variety are perennials, ranging from South Carolina to
Florida and westward to Texas, Arizona, California, and
northward on the Pacirtc slope to Oregon. I'halaris angusta.
a stout grass, 2 to 5 feet high, is sometimes called Apache
Timothy, owing to the resemblance of its heads to those
of timothy. In California it is not esteemed as of any
agricultural value, but in the Southern States it has
been cultivated to a limited extent, and is spoken of by
some a being aTi excellent grass for winter and spring
grazing, as it remains green throughout the winter
season.

No. 193. Phleum alpinum Linn. Mountain Timothy.

This grass is a native of the mountain regions from Maine to

California and northward; also in northern Europe and

Asia. It is closely related to cnlti\ ateil timothy. The

stems are usually stouter, more leafy, but not so tall, under

most favorable conditions attaining a height of 2 feet, but no. 73.— Apache Tim-

rarely exceeding a foot. othy {Phalaris an-

gvsta).
No. 194. Phleum pratense Linn. Timothy. (Fig. 74.)

This is one of the best known and most extensivoly cultivated hay grasses. It is a
nativ<5 of Euroi)e (where it is known as cat's-tail), north Africa, and northern
and middle Asia, and has become thoroughly naturalized in North America. It

61

appears to have been first cultivatecl in this country, and it was from this conn-
try that the seeds were obtained for its cultivation in England about the year
1760. It has never attained the same high esteem in England that it holds here,
where it is regarded as the standard of comparison for all other grasses grown
for hay. It succeeds best on moist loams or clays. In very dry ground the
yield is apt to be light. On such soils the base of the stem is often thickened
and bulb-like. Timothy is usually sown in mixtures with other grasses and
clovers. It may be used with red or alsike clovers, or with redtop. Good fresh
seed should have an average purity of 97 ])er cent and a germinative power of
85 to 90 per cent, a bushel weighing 4« pounds. The aujount reciuired per acre
varies with the (£uality of the seed, but of that containing 87 per cent pure in
germinating, 16 pounds to the acre is sufficient. It is better, however, to sow
half a bushel to the acre if sown alone. With red or alsike
clovers about 10 ])er cent timothy is a proper mixture.

No. 195. Phragmites vulgaris (Lam.) B. 8. P. Common Reed.

This is one of the largest of our native grasses, growing to the
height of 12 feet, the rather stout culms bearing numerous
broad, spreading, and sharply pointed leaves 1 to 2 feet long.
It has deeply penetrating and extensively creeping rootstocks,
making it one of the most valuable grasses for binding the
banks of rivers subject to periodical Hoods. It is occasion-
ally found along the coast in brackish marshes and sometimes
upon sandy soils, and possibly may be employed with advan-
tage for binding drifting sands or those liable to be shifted
by high tides. The rootstocks are very strong, and when the
grass is once established scarcely anything can remove it.
The young shoots are liked by cattle and the mature stems
make the best of thatch. It is very widely distributed
throughout the temperate regions of both hemispheres, grow-
ing along river banks, borders of lakes, etc.

No. 196. Poa alsodes A. Gray. Wood Spear-grass.

A slender, erect perennial, 1 to 3 feet high, with flat leaves and
a narrow, rather few-flowered panicle. It is a native, growing
upon the wooded hillsides of New England, extending west-
ward to Wisconsin, and southward through Xew York, Penn-
sylvania, and Virginia, to the mountain regions of North Car-
olina and Tennessee. It possesses no recognized agricultural
value, but is apparently a good fodder grass, and may possi-
bly prove of value in cultivation in woodland parks. Other
closely related species of Foa extend westward across the
continent.

Fig. H. — Timothy
{Plileum itra-
tenge) .

No. 197. Poa annua Linn. Low Spear-grass.

A low, spreading annual, with erect or ascending somewhat flattened stems, 2 to 12
inches high. This is an introduced grass, coumion in every dooryard and about
dwellings and cultivated grounds. It may be found in bloom in the Southern
States in almost every month in the year. It often forms a considerable ingre-
dient in poorly kept lawns, as a result of its spontaneous growth.

No. 198. Poa arachnifera Torr. Texas Blue- grass.

A strong-growing perennial, 1 to 3 feet high, with extensively creeping rootstocks,
long leaves, and narrow, densely flowered panicles. This grass is apparently
dioecious. The pistillate or seed-bearing plants have the spikelets densely woolly,
while the male spikelets are smooth. It is a native of Texas, but is now well
known in most of the Southern States, where it has been introduced into culti-

62

vation, liavin<;bepn hif;hly recwmmendcd as n piTmanent pasture jxrass. It may
1)6 propagated by seeds or "root cuttings," which can be obtained from leading
seedsmen. It makes its principal growth during the winter months, coming
into bloom in the latter part of April or early in May. It makes a good sod and
withstands well the heat of summer and protracted drought. Owing to the wool-
liness of the seeds, they are difticult to sow, and as they are rather expensive
this grass has not been so extensively propagated as it otherwise would have been.
A somewhat troublesome, but more certain, method of propagation is by root
cuttings. These may be planted at any time during the lall or early spring
months, being set out in rows 2 feet apart and 6 to 10 inches apart in the rows.
The retail price of the seed, according to New York catalogues, is .$3 per pound.
No. 199. Poa arida Vasey. Ibincli Sjjear-grass.
A smooth, upright ])(rennial, 1 to 2 feet high, with rather rigid,
sharp pointed leaves, and a close or narrow panicle 2 to 3
inches long. This grass is a native of the Rocky Mountain
resrion, from the British Possessions southward to Arizona.
It has short, creeping rootstocks, and although more rigid
than many species of Foa, is one of the most valuable pas-
ture grasses of the dry regions of the West.
No. 200. Poabuckleyana Nash. Bunch Ked-top. (Fig. 7.5.)
Ilather slender, 1 to 2 feet high, with no creeping rootstock,
very narrow root leaves, and contracted panicles of usually
]»urplish spikelets. It is a perennial, aiid a native of the
Rocky Mountain regions, growing on the lower foothills
and in the valleys. It grows in bunches, not forming a
turf, and is regarded by the ranchmen as one of the most
valuable "bunch grasses'' of the cattle ranges. It has
never been introduced into cultivation, but is deserving of
attention, for it responds readily to improved conditions,
and when growing along streams or in irrigated land
makes a luxuriant growth of foliage, and often attains a
height of 2 or 3 feet. There are many species of I'oa native
to the northern portion of our country, particularly in the
Northwest, and all are tender, nutritious pasture grasses.
Wherever grasses grow, from the seashore to the highest
mountain tops, fron\ one arctic zone to the other, the genus
Poa has its representatives.
No. 201. Poa coinpressa Linn. Canadian Blue-grass.
A slender ]ierennial, with much-flattened stems, 6 to 20 inches
higli, and small, narrow jianicles. This grass has exten-
sively creeping rootstocks, and forms a strong turf. It is a
native (d'hurope, which lias become thoroughly naturalized,
and is now very widely distributed over our territory. It is closely related to
Kentucky Blue-grass, but it is more decidedly blue in color, and is readily dis-
tinguished from that species by its strongly llatteneil stems, lower habit of
growth, and smaller panicle. It is the " Blue-grass" of the farmers of the New
Kiigland and Middle .States. It will grow upon a great variety of soils, even
upon those so poor and thin as to exclude the growth of other grasses. In culti-
vated lands it is likely to beccmie troublesome, owing to its creeping rootstocks.
There is ix^rhaps no better pasture grass for dry and poor soils, iiarticularly in
the Eastern and Middle States. It is especially valuable for dairy pastures;
cows feeding on it yield the richest milk and iinost butter. On good land it
becomes sufliciently tall for hay. :m<l as it shrinks very little in drying, tlie hay
is heavy in i)roportion to its bulk. Seed is advertised by leading lirms at $14
per 100 pounds.

no. 75.— P.imfli Iicd-
loj» {J'lia buckliy.
ana).

63

No. 202. Poa fendleriana (Steud.) Vasey. Mutton-grass.

Widely distributed iu the Rocky Mountain regiou and on the Pacific Slope, extend-
ing southward tlirougli Arizona into Mexico. It grows in tufts to the height of
1 to 2 feet, Las numerous long root-leaves, and short, compact heads or panicles.
It is tender, and affords a large amount of excellent grazing in the regions where
it grows abundantly, and may prove a valuable acquisition to the I'orage grasses
of the Atlantic States.

No. 203. Poa flabellata Hook. Tussock-grass.

A native of the Falkland and adjacent islands, which has attracted the attention of
travellers by its stout habit of growth and evident nutritious qualities. The
flowering stems are 5 to 8 feet high, and these are ofteu exceeded by the numer-
ous radical leaves. This grass grows in great tussocks, 1 to 4 or 5 feet across.
The stems and long leaves are used for thatch. "'It hives a rank, wet, peat bog,
with the sea spray dashing over it, and wherever the waves beat with greatest
vehemence and the saline spray is carried farthest, there the tussock grass thrives
the best, provided, also, it is on the soil it prefers." It thrives in cold countries
near the sea in pure sand at the edge of peat bogs. The base of the stem is
edible, having a taste of mountain cabbage, a species of palm. The introduction
of this grass to certain points along our Northern seaboard, where other grasses
will not thrive or where there is danger of encroachment upon the land by the
sea, may be desirable. The nutritious (jualities of the grass and its furnishing
good fodder the year round upon the Falkland Islands has been repeatedly noted
by authors.

No. 204. Poa flava Linn. False Red-top.

A native of northern Europe and the northern portions of our own country, growing
naturally in wet meadows and along the low banks of streams. It attains the
height of 2 to 3 feet, or even 4 feet in rich, moist soils, and has an expanded,
nodding panicle of rather small, purplish, or "bronzed" spikelets. It is found
in nearly all parts of New England, and often forms a very considerable and
valued portion of the native hay of the low meadows. It has been cultivated
to some extent, but should only be used in mixtures, as it does not make a good
sod when sown alone. It blooms in July and August.

No. 205. Poa nemoralis Linn. Wood Meadow-grass.

The larger forms of this are hardly to be distinguished from Poa flava, and have a
similar range. It will, however, grow in a drier soil, excessive moisture being
harmful to it. In Montana this species ascends to the altitude of 9, 000 feet. At
this elevation it is dwarfed in habit, but at lower elevations it becomes taller
and affords excellent forage. There are several varieties of this grass in the
Rocky Mountains and the Northwest, some of them growing upon the dry foot-
hills and bench lands. The larger forms are well adapted for hay. It is less
jiroductive than many others, and its cultivation is not recommended, excepting
in shady parks or ojien woodlands where an increase of forage is desired, or in
shaded lawns, and then only in the Northern and Middle States.

No. 206. Poa nevadensis Vasey. Nevada Blue-grass.

A ])erennial bunch grass from the western prairie and plains regions. It grows on
both dry and damp soils, produces a large amount of excellent hay, and is
apparently worthy of cultivation.

No. 207. Poa pratensis Linn. Kentucky Blue-grass. (Fig. 76.)

This is apparently native throughout the temperate regions of the noithern hemi-
sphere. It ranges from Laljrador to South Carolina, westward to the Pacific
coast and northward to Alaska. In the limestone regions of Kentucky and
Tennessee it attains its greatest perfection and is there regarded as the king of

64

pasture jiTasses. It iccinircs a j^ood soil <<iutaiuiiin; some lime in order to yield
prolitable crops. It is largely employed in the Kasterii and Middle States as a
lawn grass, for which use it is well adapted. It makes a good, lirm sod, and is
particularly well suited for turfing the slopes of terraces and embankments,
where the soil is good. There are several varieties, which dilVer chiefly in the
breadth and length of the leaves, particularly those at the base of the stem.
It is not so well adapted for the i)roduction of hay as it is for ])asturage. It
should enter into all mixtures designed for permanent ])a8ture. The slender
stems of this grass afford an excellent material for the manufacture of the finer
kinds of Leghorn hats. Good and well-cleaned seed should have 95 per cent
purity and 50 per cent germinating power. The pow er of germination, how-
over, is usually much below tiiis figure. When use<l for lawns, sow at the rate

of 3 bushels i)er acre. According to Steb-
ler and Sehroeter, the seeds should, never
be covered, but only rolled after sowing,
because they germinate better in the light
than in darkness. This is the June-grass
of the Northern States, (ireen-grass of
Pennsylvania, and Smooth-stalked Mead-
ow-grass of England.

No. 208. Poa subaristata Scribn. Vasey's
Spear-grass.

A perennial, from central Montana, where it
is common on dry hills and mountain
slopes, forming a large percentage of the
grass and supplying good pasturage. It
is an excellent species for cultivation in
Northern pastures.

No. 209. Poa trivialis Linn. Eough-stalked
Meadow-grass.

,\n erect jierennial, 1 to 3 feet high, with an
open, spreading panicle, closely related
to Kentucky Blue-grass, from which it
differs in having no consiiicuous root-
stock and the stem distinctly rough below
the panicle. It has been cultivated for
many years in England, ami is now highly
esteemed as an ingredient in mixtures for
permanent pastures. It succeeds best
where the climate and soil are rather
moist and cool, but is not adapted to
sandy soil. In northern Italy this grass is known as the "queen of forage
plants," but elsewiicre,i)articularly in this country, it is not so highly esteemed,
its principal use being to form bottom grass in i»ermaneiif pastures. Seed of
good quality should have 95 per cent purity and 50 i)er cent germination.
When sown alone Ik to 2 bushels of seed are reciuired ])er acre.

No. 210. Poa wheeleri Vasey. Wheeler's Hlue-grass.

.\ iierenniai native pasture grass that grows on the high plains and on the mountain
sloi)es, ))elow timber lino, from Colorado northward. It is one of fht> best graz-
ing grasses of the Rocky Mountains and promises to do well in cultivation.

No. 211. PoUinia fulva Heiith. Sugar-grass.

A slender or rather stout perennial, 1 to I feet high, with narrow leaves and two
to tiirec terminal sjiikos, which are clothed with brown, silky hairs. It is a

Fifi. 7(5.— Kent iiiliv Blue-grass (Poa pm
ten sis).

65

native of Australia, found througliout all the colonies of that country, growing
chiefly on the richest soils and on deep alluvial flats bordering rivers and creeks.
It is prodiictive, and much prized by cattlemen. The name "sugar-graes" is
applied to this species ou account of the sweetness of its stems and foliage. Mr.
Fred Turner recommends it for cultivation on good land, especially in grazing
districts, and he speaks of it as being a good grass to plant on the banks of
rivers, creeks, and dams, as its strong, penetrating roots would help to bind the
soil and prevent its being washed away by heavy rains or floods. This grass is
classed as a variety of Pollinia cumminyii Nees, bj^ Hackel.

No. 212. Puccinellia maritima (Huds.) Pari. Sea Spear-grass.

A slender grass, 12 to 18 inches high, with creeping rhizomes. It occurs in the
marshes along the seacoasts of New England and the Middle States, and forms a
valuable element of the hay of tide-
water marshes.

No. 213. RedQeldiaflexuosa(Thiirb.)

Vasey. Eedfield's-grass. (Fig. 77.)
A stout, native perennial, 18 inches to
4 feet high, with long, narrow
leaves and difl'usely spreading pan-
icles, growing in the sandy districts
of Nebraska, Colorado, and Kan-
sas. It has deeply penetrating
and widely spreading underground
stems or rhizomes, making it a val-
uable species for binding drifting
sands. It is a characteristic grass
of the sand hills of central Nebras-
ka, growing in the drifting sands
and "blow-outs," and is a conspic-
uous and almost the only grass
found on the sand dunes south of
the Arkansas River, near Garden
City, Kans.

No. 214. Saccharuni ciliare Anderss.

A tall, handsome grass of India, with
smooth stems, 8 to 10 feet high,
long leaves, and large, showy pani-
cles of silky-hairy flowers. Used
in the manufacture of mattins:,
rope, and paper, and for thatching. The stems are made into sieves, scieens,
and baskets. The thicker portion of the stems is used for lining wells, and
in making chairs and C(>uche.s. The leaves are sometimes used for fodder,
and when young the grass is grazed by cattle.

No. 215. Saccharum officinarum L. Sugar Cane.

A stout grass with many-jointed stems, 8 to 15 feet high, broad leaves, 3 to 4 feet
long, and long (16 to 32 inches), pyramidal panicles. Native country unknown,
but .sparingly spontaneous in the South Sea Islands, Avhere it blo,ssoms freely.
Cultivated in all tropical countries. Propagated chiefly by cuttings of the
stems. There are many varieties, distinguished chiefly by the color and height
of stem. The leaves arc sometimes used for fodder, and, to a limited extent, also
in paper making. The cane is cultivated, however, for its sweet juice, which
yields from 12 to 20 per cent sugar. Fnder favorable circumstances an acre of
ground will produce about 20 tons of cane. In this country the production
of cane sugar on a commercial scale is practicallv limited to the States of Loui-

^393— ]S"o. 14 5

Fig. 77 — Redfielfl's-grass {Redfieldia flexuosa).

66

Biana and Texas. The sugar production in Louisiana in 1889 was 292,124,050
pounds. Tbf world's production of cane sugar was then aliout 3,000,000 tons,
more than one-third of which was produced by the West Indies. Molasses is
a product of sugar cane (the uncrystallizable sugar), and rum is made from
molasses. Refuse cane, from which the juice has been expressed, yields a
strong liber, and in parts of India is used for torches, etc.

No. 216. Savastana odorata (Linn.) Scribu. Yanilla-grass. (Fig. 78.)

A rather slender, sweet-scented perennial, 1 to 2 feet high, with short culm leaves

and brownish i)anicles. Moist meadows and mountains of the Northeastern States,

extending we.stwai"d to Oregon. This grass, remarkable for its fragrance, has

long, creeping rhizomes, from which spring the lloweriug culms and numerous

Fig. 78. — A'jinillagrass {Suva-
xtana odorata).

Fig. 79. — Cord-grass
(Spartina cyncsu-
roides) .

Fi<i. 80. — Fox-.irra.s8
imparlina iiatens).

long-leafed sterile or flowerless shoots. These long leaves are woven into small
mats and boxes by the Indians, and liiid a ready market because of the sweet
odor, whicli tiiey retain for a long time. This odor le.scmblcs that of sweet
vernal grass, but is more powerful, especially when this grass is dry. In some
I'uropean countries it is believed to have a tendency to induce" 8h>ep, and
bunches of it are hung over beds fr)r this purpose. It makes a good turf, but is
of little value for forage. In the Northwest Vanilla-grass is generally called
Sweet-grass.

No. 217. Secale cereale Linn. Rye.

An annual. I to 6 feet high, with liat leaves and a terminal, somewhat liattened,
bearded spike 1 to (i inciies long. The rye cjop of tiie I'liited States in 1805
was 27,210,070 bushels, nearly half of which was produced in the States of

67

Pennsylvauia, New York, and Wisconsin. Eye is more largely cultivated in
central and northern Europe than in America; the grain is there very largely-
used for making hread. It is comparatively little used in this country for that
purpose, being chiefly employed in the maoinfacture of malt and spirituoua
liquors. The straw, which is longer than that of other grains, and more uniform
in size throughout, is employed in the making of a great variety of articles,
such as paper, hats, bonnets, mats, slippers, toys, and fancy articles. Rye
straw is little valued for fodder, but when green it is esteemed as a forage plant,
and is sometimes sown for this piirpose in the Sonthei-n States, cattle being
allowed to graze on it during the fall and winter months. For winter graz-
ing it should be sown upon well-prepared land early in
August, Avhen it will be ready to pasture or to cut green
in the latter part of October, and may be grazed through-
out the Aviuter months.

No. 218. Spartina cynosuroides (Linn.) Willd. Cord-
grass. (Fig. 79.)

Stout, with erect, simple stems 2 to 9 feet high, fiat and
long-pointed leaves, and numerous erect or spreading
spikes 2 to 5 inches long. This is a native, common
along our ocean and lake shores, borders of rivers, -etc.,
ranging from Elaine to the C'arolinas, and westward to
the Pacific. It makes a fair but rather coarse hay Avhen
cut early, and has been successfully employed in the
manufacture of twiue and paper. The strong, creep-
ing, scaly rootstocks of this grass adapt it for binding
loose sands and river banks, and in the AVest it is used
for thatch.

No. 219. Spartina patens (Ait.) Muhl. Fox-grass. (Fig.80.)
A rather slender species, 1 to 2 (rarely 3 to 4) feet high,

with two to four sknder, erect, ov widely spreading

spikes. This is common upon the salt marshes, and is

one of the most valued species which go to form the

salt hay that these marshes produce. It ranges from

Maine southward to Florida and along the Gulf coast to

Texas. It is useful for packing glassware, crockery,

etc., and in the larger towns along the coast is much

used for this purpose. Fox-grass and lilack-grass (Jun-

cus gerardi) are regarded as the best of the grasses of the

salt marshes for the production of hay, and chemical

analyses have proved the correctness of this opinion.

Salt hay, composed chiefly of these grasses, at average

market prices is decidedly cheaper than timothy hay.

No. 220. Spartina striata inaritima (Walt.) Scribn. Creek-sedge. (Fig. 81.)
An erect and often stout salt marsh grass, with fiat leaves, and few to many erect
spikes. It varies a good deal in size, the larger form attaining a height of 5 to 8
feet. It grows along the ditches and creeks of the marshes, and is conspicuous by
its size and long, shining leaves, which are of a deep green color. Smaller forms
are found over the marshes away from the ditches, and these often are of a pale-
green tint, with comparatively short and shining leaves. All the forms are
somewhat succulent and have a rank odor, which is imparted to the milk and
butter of cows feeding upon them. The species is of little value for fodder, but
makes excellent thatch, and is used to some extent for litter and mulching.
This is a characteristic grass of the salt marshes, and is found along both the
Atlantic and Pacific coasts of our country and on the shores of Europe.

No. 221. Spinifex hirsutus Labill. Spiny Rolling-grass. (Fig. 82.)

A sand binder of the coasts of Australia, New Zealand, and Tasmania. It has stout,

Fig. 81. — Creek -sedge
(f^par.tina striata man-
tima)

68

creeping stems, rooting at thejoiuis, and sending np coarse, Irafy tnfts. The
Avliole plant is flotlied with soft hairs. The male and female llowers are bornt^
ou separate plants, the latter in globnlar heads, which fall oflF at matnrity and
are driven over the sands by tin- winds, dropping their seeds as they roll along,
or are carried abont by the waves and deposited on newly formed sand bars,
there to continue the emljankiug process. It has no vahic for forage, but in
New South Wales is regarded a most useful grass for fixing drift sands when
encroaching upon valuable lauds. It is readily propagated by cuttings or joints

of the stem.s, is of
comparatively (piick
growth, and is very
persistent when once
established. It would
doubtless bo of some
value on our own South
orn and Californian
coasts as a sand binder.

No. 222. Sporobolus ai-
roide.s Torr. Alkali Sac-
caton. (Fig. 83.)
A stout ratlier coarse and
rigid grass, growing ou
tussocks in sandy and
more or less alkaline or
saline soils along rivers
and streams, ranging
from Montana south-
ward to Texas and
westward to Califor-
nia. It has a widely
s p r e a d i n g ]> a n i e 1 e,
more open than sacca-
ton, and the grass
rarely exceeds 2 feet in
height. In some places
in Nevada, I'tah, aud
New Mexico it occurs
abundantly, and yields
a coarse fodder, which
is eaten by stock wlien
more tentler grasses
are not available.

No. 223. Sporobolus as-

perifolius (Nees and
Mey.) Tlinrb. Fine-top
Salt-grass.
A low, somewhat creeping
grass, 6 to l."> inches high, with numerous short, spreading, acute leaves, and an
expanded eapillarv i»ani(le 'A to o inches long. It grows ou alkaline plains from
Texas ncjrthwest to itritish ('r)lnmbia, in similar situations as JHsticIiliii sphalu.
andlike that species often forms a dense, continuous turf. It grows well on
strongly alkaline soil, and may prove valuable for propagation on such lands.

No. 224. Sporobolus cryptandrus (Torr.) A. (iray. Dropseed.
Astronjily rooted jjereniiial, 2 to 3 feet high, with usually narrow, rather densely
dowered panicles, which are generally jtarti.dly inclosed within the upper Icaf-

rio. 82. — Si)iiiy Iiolling-gr.i88 {Spini/cx hiisuUa) : a, nialo iuflores-
cence; 6, feiiialo iiilloreHceiice; a', iiinle spikelet; h', female
spikelct.

69

sheath. Common on the Western plains and in the Rocky MoTintain region. It
is a tender species, apparently well liked "by stock, and where it occurs abun-
dantly is very generally regarded as an important forage plant. In northern
central Kansas it is spoken of as one of the best early grasses, and the same is
said of it in Young County, Texas.

No. 225. Sporoboliis indicus (Linn.) E. Br. Smiit-grass. (Fig. 84.)

A tufted, wiry, erect perennial, 1 to 3 feet high, with narrow, densely flowered,
spike-like panicles 4 to 12 inches long. This grass is widely distributed through-
out the warmer temperate regions of the world, and has become quite common
in many parts of tlie Southern States, growing in scattered tufts or patches
about dwellings and in dry, open fields. As the season advances, the long, slen-
der panicles often become overgrown by fungus, so that they appear as if

Fig. 83.— Alkali Saccaton (Sporobolus
uiroides).

Fig. 8-t. — Smut-grass {Sporobolus in-
dicus) .

attacked by smut ; hence the common name " Smut-grass."' By some it is looked
upon as valuable for forage, but the stems soon become too tough and wirj' to
be readily eaten by stock, and in fields where this grass occurs it is usually
avoided by cattle when other food can be had.

No. 226. Sporobolus junceus (Michx.) Kuntli. Rush-grass.

Common in the dry, pine-barren regions of the Southeastern States. It grows to the
height of 18 inches to 2 feet, and is df little or no agricultural value. This and
Arintida stricta are known throughout the South as " Wire-grass."

No. 227. Sporobolus orientalis Kth. Usar-grass.

A wiry, creeping perennial, witli rather short, rigid leaves and diffuse panicles. It
is a native of India, growing upon saline soils, often constituting the entire veg-
etation of the extensive "usar" tracts of northern India. A valuable grass for

70

alkaline or saline soils, yielding a liberal supply of fodder where other plants are
unable to exist.

No. 228. Sporobolus -wrightii Munro. Saccaton. (Fig. 85.)

A stout, erect perennial, 4 to 8 feet high, with long, narrow leaves and a slightly
spreading panicle 12 to 36 inches long. It grows in great clumps, jiroducing a
large quantity of coarse, tough stems and leaves, which, however, in the regions
where this grass is native — Arizona and New Mexico — yield a hay which is
valued for liorses and mules. As a hardy perennial for saline bottoms subject
to Hooding or incapable of cultivation, this species deserves notice. The Indians
and Mexicans of Arizona and Lower California call all hay grasses "zacate,"
without any distinction between the species.

No. 229. Stenotaphrum dimidiatum (Linn.)

Brongn. St. Augustine-gra.s.s. (Kig. 86.)

This grass has a wide distribution, being found in
the tropical and warmer temperate regions of
both the Old and New World. In New South
Wales it is known as Buifalo-grass, and in
Jamaica it is called Pimento-grass. It grows
upon every variety of soil, from the apparently
sterile sand dunes to heavy clays, but is rarely
found far away from the coast. The flattened
stems emit tibrous roots at every joint, where
they also readily separate, each piece becoming
anew center of growth. The leaves are flat or
simply folded, blunt or obtuse at the apex,
nearly one-fourth of an inch broad and I to 10
inches long. Tlie Ho weriug stems grow to the
height of 6 inches to a foot or more. St. Au-
gustine-grass grows along our ocean shores as
far north as South Carolina, and is extensively
used for lawns in Charleston, S. C, and cities
in the South ueav the coast. It is useful for
holding sloping embankments, especially those
subject to wash. It is propagated by cuttings
or sets, and quickly eo\ ers the most sandy yards
with a dense, carpet like growth. In South
America the creeping steins are (Muployed in
medicine as a diuretic. This is the Bufl'alo-grass
of Australia, and other local names in this coun-
try are Mission-grass and Charleston Lawn-
grass.

No. 230. Stipa oomata Trin. & Kupr. Needle-aud-Thread.

ThLs is one of the bunch grasses common in the Rocky Mountain region, growing
on the dry mesas and foothills. It is a rather stout, leafy perennial, 1 to 3 feet
higli, with a panicle usually partly inclosed in the upper leaf sheath; the slen-
der awns of the spikelets are 4 to 6 inches long and llexuose. This grass lias
some value, all'ording forage of good (piality in the regions wiiere it grows
abundantly. In Dakota, Wyoming, etc., it is valued as a hay grass.

No. 231. Stipa elegantissinia Labill.

A native of Australia, with erect, branching stems 2 to 3 feet high, narrow leaves,
and loose panicles 6 to 8 inches long. Tiie axis and long, thread-like branches of
the )):iniclc are elegantly plumose with tine, spreading hairs, rendering it
highly ornamental. Cultivated in gardens.

Fig. 85. — Saccaton (Sporobolus
wrightii).

71

No. 232. Stipa leucotricha Trin. & Rupr. Bearded Mcsquite.

An erect perenuial; 1 to 3 feet high, with very narrow leaves and a loose panicle
with a few loug-awned spikelets. One of the best native hay grasses of central
and southern Texas.
No. 233. Stipa pennata Linn. Feather-grass.

A native of southern Europe, 1 to 2 feet high, growing in dry, open ground, and
often cultivated in gardens as an ornamental, the very long, slender awns being
clothed with spreading, silky hairs, presenting a very graceful plume-like
appearance. A variety of this grass {Stipa pennata neo-mencana) grows wild in
the mountain regions of western Texas and Arizona. It is an elegant form of
the species, growing in clumps 6 to 12 inches in di-
ameter, and is deserving the attention of the florist.
No. 234. Stipa setigera Presl. Bear-grass.
A native of California, extending northward to Oregon
and eastward through New Mexico and Arizona to
Texas. It is common on the coast ranges and on
the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, where it is re.
garded as one of the most valuable of the native
bunch grasses.
No. 235. Stipa spartea Trin. Porcupine-grass.
Rather stout, 18 inches to 3 feet high, with long leaves
and few-flowered panicles. The stout and twisted
awns are 3 to 6 inches long, and at the base
of the flowering glume is a long and very sharp-
pointed callus. When mature, the awned flowering
glumes soon fall off, leaving the large, pale, straw-
colored, persistent empty glumes, which impart to
the panicle a characteristic oat-like appearance.
The awns, when dry, are bent and very strongly
twisted, but when moistened they gradually untwist,
a character which enables the seeds to bury them-
selves in the ground, this being possible on account
of the very sharp callus at the base of the fruiting
glume. The same character also renders the seeds
of this grass dangerous to sheep, as they readily
become attached to the wool, and may penetrate the
flesh of the animal, causing serious injury. Aside
from this danger of aff'ecting the quality of the
wool, and possibly the life of the sheep, this grass
may be considered a good forage plant, as it makes a very good hay, although
somewhat coarse. It is particularly common in the prairie regions of Iowa,
Nebraska, South Dakota, and Minnesota, extending westward to the Rocky
Mountains, where it frequently occurs upon the dry foothills and bench lands.
This is the Butt'alo-grass of the Saskatchewan region. In some localities it is

Fig. 86.— St. Avigustine-grasa
(Stenotaphrum dirnidiatum) .

known as Needle-grass, but that name is reserved for Aristula fasciculata.
also known as "wild oats" in North Dakota.

It is

No. 236. Stipa tenacissima Linn. Esparto.

A native of the sandy regions of southwestern Europe and northern Africa. It is a
tall perennial, with long, stiff, and very tough leaves, from which ropes, baskets,
mats, hats, and other articles are woven. The leaves are employed largely in
England and this country in the manufacture of paper, for which purpose this
grass is superior to straw. It is one of the most important articles of export
from Algeria, and from northern Africa and Spain more than 2,000 tons of Esparto
are exported to Great Britain annually. "Ten tons of dry Esparto, worth from
$18 to $25 per ton, can be obtained from an aci'e under favorable circumstances."

72

The grass will grow ou almost any kind of soil, from that whith is poor and
sandy or gravelly to heavy calcareous and clayey soils. It thrives in the dry
and hot climates of northern Africa, where many millions of acres are covered
almost exclusively with it. This grass is extensively cultivated in the south of
France, and possibly its introduction into some of our Southwestern districts
may render profitable, regions now practically worthless. It may be propagated
by seeds or by divisions of the root. The latter is the more common method.
This and Lygeum spartum constitute the Esparto of commerce.

No. 237. Stipa vaseyi Scribu. Sleepy-grass.

A stout bunch-grass 3 to 5 feet high, which grows in the Rocky Mountains at an
altitude of from 5,000 to 6,000 feet. This grass, although producing a large bulk
of stems and leaves, is regarded with suspicion by stockmen. It is said that

when this grass is eaten in a fresh state by
horses it has a narcotic or i)oisonous oftVct,
causing the animals to become crazed or
"locoed," its action thus resembling that of
the deadly loco weed {AfttraijaJus moJUssimus).
Hay made from this grass does not appar-
ently possess any poisonous qualities.

No. 238. Stipa viridula Trin. Feather Bunch-
grass. (Fig. 87.)

A rather slender grass, 1 to 3 feet high, growing
in the Rocky Mountain region and on the
foothills and mesas, from British Columbia
southward to Mexico and westward to the
coast On good land, under irrigation, this
grass attains the height of 3 feet or more,
and is by far the most valuable of the Stipas
for hay. The leafy culms are terminated by
a narrow, many-flowered panicle of compar-
atively small and rather short-awned spike-
lets. The seed may be easily gathered. The
callus at the base of the fruiting glume is
short and barely pointed and not produced
into a long, very sharp, spur-like extension,
as in Porcupine-grass.

No. 239. Thuarea sarmentosa Pers.

A low, extensively creeping grass, rooting at the
joints, with ascending flowering branches,
short leaves, and slender spikes about an inch
A native of Ceylon, northern Australia, etc., growing on the sands of
the coast. It is a tender grass, and may be useful in binding coast sands in
tropical countries or in the formation of lawns.

No. 240. Trichloris blanchardiana Scribn.

A perennial, H to 3 feet high, with flat leaves, and six to eighteen slender, bearded
spikes, which are 2 to 5 inches bmg, digitate or fasciculate at the apex of the
culm. It has long been known to florists under the name of Chlorojish hlaiich-
ardiaiia, and is esteemed as an oruauu'utal grass, its attractive appearance mak-
ing it worthy of attention
South America.

Fig. 87.— Feather Buncb-grass (Stipa
viridula).

long.

It grows in Arizona and Mexico, extending into

No. 241. Tricholaena rosea Neos.

A South African annual (?), with diffusely branching stems 2 to I feet high. The
spikelets are in loose panicles, and clothed with reddish, silky hairs. It pre-

73

sents a pleasing appearauce when in flower, and the panicles are valnod for dry
bouquets. It has recently received souie attention by agriculturists on account
of its very vigorous rapid growth and productiveness. Experiments made in
this country and elsewhere indicate that it possesses much value as a meadow
or hay o-rass in mild climates. Three hundred stems have been counted on a
single plant. These stems take root wherever they touch the ground, and an
acre has been calculated to yield 30 tons of green fodder in the rich valleys of
the Macleay Elver, New South Wales. It is easily propagated by seed.

No. 242. Triodia exigua Kirk.

A little alpine grass, endemic in New Zealand. It forms even plots of turf, often
many square yards in extent ; the leaves are firm, short, and shining ; the com-
pact growth of the turf or sward prevents the encroach-
ment of other grasses or weeds. It is particularly to be
recommended for croquet lawns, never reciuiring mowing
(Kirk). In the mountain regions of the West are sev-
eral of these small turf-forming grasses, which would,
if cultivated, make excellent carpet-like lawns in the
region of the Northern and Middle States.

No. 243. Triodia seslerioides (Michx.) Beuth. Fall Red-
top.
A stout, erect, native perennial, 3 to 5 feet high, with long,

flat leaves and an ample, spreading, usually purple pan-
icle 6 to 12 inches long, growiug in dry or sandy fields

from southeru New York southward and westward to

Missouri, blooming in August and September. It is a

striking grass, and often covers considerable areas, but

18 apparently not liked by stock, and is not recognized

as itossessing any agricultural value.

Linn.

Gama-grass.

No. 244. Tripsacum dactyloides

(Fig. 88.)
A tall, coarse perennial, 3 to 8 feet high, growing in large
tufts, and producing a great mass of broad leaves,
which when young and succulent are eaten with avidity
hy all kinds of stock. When abundant it aflords a large
amount of natural forage, and is valuable to this extent.
It has very strong, creeping rootstocks, and the quan-
tity of forage produced is large and of excellent quality.
The grass may be deserving of cultivation for forage
under certain conditions, and it makes an interesting
and attractive plant for lawn decoration or the garden,
moist soil 18 best suited to it.

Fig. 88. — Gama-grass
{Tripsaevm dactyloides) .

A rich and rather

No. 245. Trisetum. pratense Pers. Yellow Oat-grass.

A rather slender, loosely tufted perennial, growing to the height of 2 feet. It is a
native of Europe, northern Africa, and western Asia. It occurs along roadsides,
in open fields, and on grassy mountain slopes, where its i^iesence is said to indi-
cate land of good quality. In Europe, Yellow Oat-grass is classed with the best
fodder plants and is highly valued for temporary, but more particularly for per-
manent pastures. It can be grown on almost every variety of soil, is fairly pro-
ductive, and is readily eaten by stock. This grass has a record of yielding on
clayey loam soils 8,167 pounds green grass, 2,858 of hay, and 4,083 of aftermath
per acre. In this country it has received little attention. It is quoted in New
York seed catalogues, the price ranging from $70 to $115 per 100 pounds. Sown
only in mixtures.

74

No. 246. Triticum aestivum Linn. Wheat.

Wheat in its many varieties is one of the most important of the true grasses. It is
one of the oldest of the cultivated cereals, the grains having been found in very
ancient Egyptian monuments, dating back to 2,.500 or 3,000 B, C. The numerous
varieties are distinguished by the firmness of the axis of the spike (continuous),
or its brittleness (articulated) ; by the presence or absence of awns or beard; by
the color of the chalf, and color and size of the grain. Triticum astirnm speltiim,
of -n-hich there are a number of subvarieties, is one of the oldest grains, and was
everywhere cultivated throughout the Roman Empire, forming the chief grain
of Egypt and Greece. It is still grown to some extent in parts of Europe, notably
in northern Spain and southern Germany. In 1895 the wheat crop of the United
States was placed at 467,102,947 bushels, while the wheat crop of the world is

estimated at 2,400,000,000 bushels. For a
discussion of the classification of the vari-
eties of wheat, see Hackel's True Grasses
(English translation), and the Fourth
Annual Report of the New York Agricul-
tural Experiment Station, 188.5.

No. 247. Triticum polonicum Linn. Wild-
goose Wheat.
A very striking species or variety of wheat,
with large, compressed, and usually bluish-
green spikes or heads. The native coun-
try of this Triticum is not known, but it
probably originated in Spain, where it is
now cultivated to a considerable extent.
It is also cultivated more or less in Italy
and Abyssinia. The long and slender fruit
resembles rye, but is on the whole larger.
It has sometimes been advertised by seed
dealers and sold to farmers under the name
of (iiant Rye. It is inferior to many other
varieties, for, although the heads present
a fine appearance, the production of ker-
nels is small; consequently the yield of
grain is light.
No. 248. Uniola latifolia Michx. Hroad-

leafed Spike-grass. (Fig. 89.)
Erect, with rather stout, leafy stems 2 to 4
feet high, and drot)i)ing panicles of large.
Hat spikelets. The leaves are broad and
widely spreading, and these, togetlicr
with the graceful, nodding, open panicles, render it pleasing in appearance and
worthy of cultivation for ornament. It has very strong, creeping roots, and is
found chieriy along streams and thicket borders from Fcnnsylvania southward
and westward to Illinois. A grass of little or no agricultural value.

No. 249. Uniola pauiculata Linn. Seaside Oats.

A native, with stout, erect stems 3 to 5 feet high, long, rigid leaves, and showy nod-
ding panicles of broad, pale straw-colored spikelets. The panicles are gathered
for dry bou<iuets, and are often seen in our markets, along with the plumes of
Pampas-grass. It grows in the drifting sands along the seashore, .just above
high tide, from Virginia southward to Florida, and along the Gulf Coast west-
war<l to Texas. It is an excellent saiul binder, its rootstocks being very strong
and penetrating deeply into the soil, nmch like those of Beach or Marram gra.98,

Fig. 89.— Broad-leafed Spike-grass {Uniola
latifolia).

75

of which it is a soiitheru analogue. The leaves are sometimes cropped by-
cattle, but the grass is too tough aud dry to be of any importance as a forage
plant. UnioJa con den sat a of similar habit of growth, but with more densely
flowered panicles, is found in the sands along the coast of Lower California.

No. 250. Zea mays Linn. Indian Com or Maize.

One of the most valued of the cultivated cereals. The many varieties which have
originated in cultivation have been variously classified. They differ much in
size, in the form, size, color, aud hardiness of the grain, and in the time required
for ripening. Husk Maize, in which the kernels are separately enveloped in
broad, herbaceous glumes, may approach the native form, which doubtless had
its origin in tropical America. Mais de coijote, regarded by some as a distinct
species, is said to grow wild in some parts of Mexico. The stems of this variety
are branched above, and the numerous small
ears are borne in the upper leaf axils all along
the branches. The kernels are rounded and de-
l^res.sed, or conical with a rather acute apex
pointing forward in two opposite rows, or irreg-
ularly arranged in four to six rows. Aside from
its great value as a cereal, ordinary field corn
is the best of the annual forage plants for soil-
ing, and is also valued and used by many farm-
ers for ensilage, being cut for this purpose when
the kernels commence to glaze. Among the
many uses of corn may be mentioned that of
making cakes and corn bread, mush or hasty
pudding, which is boiled corn meal, a very com-
mon dish in New England; mixed with rye and
wheat flour the corn meal is used in making
"brown bread"; green corn, boiled or roasted,
is very largely eaten in its season, and canned
corn is an important article of food; pickled
green corn also is a favorite dish with many;
liuUed corn, or hominy, prepared by soaking the
ripe grain in lye for a certain length of time and
then removing the hulls or covering of the ker-
nels, is a favorite dish in New England ; popped
corn, obtained by shaking the shelled corn of
certain varieties in a suitable dish over live
coals or a hot stove, is a luxury with children,
and mixed with sugar or sirup is made into corn
balls and various kinds of candy ; corn and corn
meal are largely fed to farm stock in this coun-
try, particularly to cattle and hogs; alcoholic liquors in immense quantities are
distilled from the grain ; corn husks (the leaves covering the ears) are used in
making paper, in upholstery, and for filling mattresses. The total corn crop
of the United States for the year 1895 was 2,151,138,580 bushels, valued at
$544,985,534. The largest crop of any one State for that year was produced by
Iowa, and amounted to 298,502,650 bushels.

No. 251. Zizania aquatica Linn. Wild Rice. (Fig. 90.)

A tall, erect annual, 3 to 10 feet high, growing in shallow water along rivers and
lakes from Canada southward to Florida and westward to Texas. The grain is
a favorite food of the re 3d bird, and the grass is cultivated to some extent by
sportsmen with a view to attracting these and aquatic fowl. It grows very rap-
idly in 1 to 8 feet of water, and matures its seeds in August or early in Septem-
ber. It succeeds best when sown in the fall broadcast in 2 or 3 feet of water

Fig. 90..

-Wild Rice {Zizania
aquatica).

76

having a muddy bottom, but it can be sowu in the spring in water from 6 inches
to 5 feet deei). Before sowing soak the seeds in water tweutj'-fonr hours. Cur-
rent retail price of the seeds is 25 cents per pound. This grass is abundant in
the tide waters of the rivers of the Middle States, notably in the Delaware
below Philadelphia, where it is always designated as "the reeds." The stems
are used by coopers for making the joints of barrels intended to hold whisky or

petroleum perfectly
tight. This grass is
the Manornn of the
Chippewa Indians, who
gather the grain for
food.

No. 252. Zoysia pungens
Willd. Japanese Lawn-
grass. (Fig. 91.)

A creeping maritime grass
growing on the sandy
shores of tropical and
eastern Asia, Australia,
and New Zealand. In
Australia it is consid-
ered an excellent sand-
binder, and, while val-
uable for this purpose,
it is at the same time
an excellent forage
plant. Under favor-
able circumstances it
forms a compact turf
and affords a large
amount of choice pas-
t u r a g e . Constant
cropping appears to
improve it and increase
the density of the turf.
In the foreign settle-
ments of China and .la-
pan it is prized as a
lawn grass, especially
for tennis courts. It is
finer-leafed than St. Augustine-grass, and may prove superior to that for lawns
in the Southern and Gulf States. The habit of growth of Japanese lawn-grass
is very similar to that of Heriiiuda, but the creeping stems are rather stouter
and more rigid and the upright branches or tufts of llowering steins are never
80 tall, rarely exceeding 6 inches. It may be propagated by root cuttings or by
seed. Importations of both roots and seeds from Korea have been siiceessfiilly
grown litTC, and the grass lias ])roved hardy as far north as Connecticut,
leaves turn brown in the autumn, as do those of Bermuda.

Fig. 91. — Japanese Lawn-grass [Zoysia pungens); a to d details
of the spikelet.

The

GRASSES FOR SPECIAL SOILS OR USES.

The following lists include the best known and most valuable of the
economic grasses. Descriptions of the species enumerated will be found
in the body of the work under the initial letter of the Latin name.
Seeds or roots of nearly all can be obtained from seedsmen.

HAY GRASSES.

Slender wheat grass {Agropyron tenerum), redtop or herd's grass (Agrostis alha and
A. vuh/aris), meadow foxtail {Alopeciirus pratensis), Johnson grass {Andropogon hale-
pensis), big blue stem (Andropogon provincialis) , sorghum {Andropogon sorghum), tall
oat grass (Arrhenatherum elatius), Mitchell grass (Astreila peeiinacea), oats {Arena
satira), side-oats grama {Bouteloua curti2)endida), Japanese wheat grass {Brachiipoduim
japonicinn), smooth brome grass {Bromus hiermis), millet (Cluttockloa itaJica), Ber-
muda grass {Cynodon dactyloii), crested dog's tail {Cynoaurus cristatus), orchard grass
(Dactylis glomerata), teft" {Eragroatis abyssinicn), teosinte {Euchlania mexieana), tall
fescue (FestKca elatior), barley (Hordeinn satirum), Italian rye grass {Lolium Halicum),
perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne), rice {Oryza satira), barnyard millet {Panicum
crus-galli), guinea grass {Panicum maximum), broom-corn millet {Panicum miliaceum),
Para grass {Panicum moUe), crab grass (Panicum sanguinale), Colorado grass ( Panicum
texanum), pearlmillet (Pennisetum spicatum), reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacca),
timothj (Phleum pratense), Kentucky blue grass (Poapratensis), sugar cane (Saccharum

officinarum), (Tricholwna rosea), yellow oat grass (Trisetum pratense), wheat

{Triticum wstivum), corn (Zea mays).

PASTURE GRASSES.

Wire bunch grass (Agropyron divergens), redtop or herd's grass (Agrostis alba and
A. vulgaris), creeping bent (Agrostis stolonifera) , bushy blue stem (Andropogon nutans),
big blue stem (Andropogon provincialis), little blue stem (Andropogon scoparius),
needle grass (Aristida faseiculata) , Mitchell grass (Astrehla pectinacea), side-oats
grama (Bouteloua curtipendula), black grama (Bouteloua eriopoda), blue grama (Bou-
teloua oligostachya), Japanese wheat grass (Brachypodium Japonicum), rescue grass
{Bromus unioloides), smooth brome (Bromus incrinis), buffalo grass ( Bulbilis dactyloides),
windmill grass (Chloris rerficillata), Bermuda i;rass (Cynodon daciylon), orchard grass
(Dactylis glomerata), everlasting grass (Eriochloa punctata), Indian millet (Eriocoma
cuspidata), hard fescue (Festuca duriuscula), tall fescue (Festuca elatior), sheep fescue
(Festuca orina), red fescue (Festuca rubra), curly mesquite (Hilaria cenchroides). per-
ennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne), Indian wheat (Panicum ciliatum), carpet grass
(Paspalum comjiressum), 'knot grass (Paspalum distichum) Texas blue grass (Poa
arachnifera), Canada blue grass (Poa compressa), Kentuckj^ blue grass (Poa pratensis),
rough-stalked meadow grass (Poa trivialis), rye (Secale cereale), St. Augustine grass
(Sienotaphrmn dimidiatum).

■LAM7N GRASSES.

Seacoast bent (Agrostis coarctata), creeping bent (Agrostis stolonifera), Rhode Island
bent (Agrostis canina), buffalo grass (Bulbilis dactyloides), Bermuda grass (Cynodon
dactylon), various-leafed fescue (Festuca heterophylla) , red fescue (Festuca rubra),

77

78

Mexican lawn grass (Fourniera mexicana and Opizia siolonifet-a), carpet grass (Pasjm-
htm compressum), wood meadow grass {Poa iiemoralin), Kentucky blue grass (Poa
pratensia), i-ough-stalked meadow grass (Poa trivialis), St. Augustine grass {Sienota-
phrum dimididtiini), Japanese lawn grass iZoyaia jjungens). (See paper on "Lawns
and Lawn Making,'' in the Yearbook of the Department of Agriculture for 1897.)

GRASSES FOR WET LANDS.

Redtop or herd's grass (Agrosiis alba and A. imlgaria), seacoast bent {Ayrostts (coarc-
taiit), (•ieeping1)ent {Aijroxtls sfolonifera), cane {Arundinaria macronperma and A. iecta),
blue-joint {Calamagrostia canadensis), giant millet {Chaetochloa magna), salt grass
(Distichlis spicaia), red fescue {Festuea rubra), velvet grass (Holcus lanatiis), Italian
ryegrass {LoUum italicum), rice {Qryza aatlva), nd&A meadow grass (Panictilaria
amcricana), floating mauua gra.ss (Panicularia Jimtans), fowl meadow grass {Panicn-
laria uervata), barnyard grass {Paniciim criifi-t/alU), Para grass (Paniciim mollc), car-
pet grass {Paspahim compressum) , knot grass {Paspalum distichum), reed canary-
grass {Phalaris arundinacea), timothy (Phleiim 2)ralensc), false redtop (Poa Jlara),
Kentucky blue grass (Poa pratensia), St. Augustine gra.ss (Stenoiajihrum dimidiatum),
wild rice (Zizania aquatiea).

GRASSES FOR EMBANKMENTS.

Conch grass (Agropijron repens), Johnson grass (Andropofion halcpensis), vetivert
(Audropogon sqiiarrosus), cane (Arund'mnrUi macrosperma), smooth l)rome (Bromus
inermis), sand grass (Calamorilfa longifolia), Bermuda grass (Cynodon daetylon), salt
grass (Distichlis sjncata), red fescue (Festuea ?•«//»•«), blady grass (Imperata arundi-
nacea), maiden cane (Panicum digitarioides), vine mesqnite (Panicuin o6<«s«n(), creep-
ing panic grass (Panicum repens), carpet grass (Paspalum compressum), knotgrass
(Paspalum distichum), reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea), conmionreed (Phrag-
viitcs vulgaris), cord grass (Sparlina cynosurus), St. Augustine grass (Stenotaphrum
dimidiatum), .Japanese lawn grass (Zoysia pungcns).

GRASSES FOR HOLDING SHIFTING SANDS.

Seacoast bent (Agrostis coarctata), beach grass (Ammophila arenaria), turkey foot
(Andropogon liallii), sand grass (Calamorilfa longifolia), Bermuda grass (Cynodon
daetylon), sea-lyme grass (Flymus arenarius), soft sea-lyme grass (Flymus mollis),
Mexican salt grass (Eragrosiis obtusiflora), blady grass (Imperata arundinacea), blow-
out grass (Muhlenbergia pungens), bitter panic (Panicum amarum), creeping panic
(Panicum repens), Redlield's grass (litdfieldia Jlexuosa). fox grass (Spartina jiatens),
8i)iuy rolling gra.ss (S2)inifcjc hirsuta), St. Augustine grass (Stenotaphrum dimidiatum),
seaside oats ( Uniola panic ulata), seaside blue grass (Poa macrantha), Japanese lawn
grass (Zoysiu pungeus). (See papers on "Grasses as Sand and Soil Hinders" in the
Ycarboolv of the Department oi' Agriculture for 1894, and " Saud-biuding Grasses ' in
the Yearbook for 1898.)

INDEX.

[The English names printed in italics are the ones in most common use; these only appear in the
text. The references are to the numbers, not to pages.]

No.

African Cane 188

Millet 88,188

Alabama Gu iuea-grass

Aleppo-grass

Alkali-grass

Saccaton

Alopecurus fulvns

American Canary-grass

Oat-grass

21
21
86

221
15

192
38

Angola-grass 173

42

159

197
2

192

Animated Oats

An-kee

Annual ileadow-grass

Apache Blue-grass

Millet

Thnotlnj 19S

Arabian Millet

Arctic-grass

Aristida bromoides —

schiedeana . . .

stricta ,

Arizona Cotton-grass . . .

Arrow-grass

Astrebla triticoides

Austin-grass

Australian Millet

Oats

Prairie-grass

21

58

31

31

226

162

236

37

175

21

58

58

252

■^o

Sand-grass

Austrian Brome-grass 54

Arena barbata 39

fatua glabrescens 39

pratensis 32

Awued Wheat-grass 1

Awnless Brome-grass 54

Bahama-grass 79

Bajree Millet 188

Bamboo 43

Barley 126

grass 126

Barn-grass 159

Bariiyard-f/russ 159

Millet 1.59

No.

Beach-grass '. 18,249

Bear-grass 234

Beard-grass 31

Bearded Crowfoot 74

Darnel 134

Mesquit 232

138

1

28

70

14

7

79

24

Saccaton . ...
Wheat-grass .

Bene.

Bengal-grass

Bent

grass

Bermuda-grass

Big Blue-stem

Bitter Panic-grass 155

Black Bent 176

Bunch-grass 120

Fruited Mountain Bice 147

Grama 45, 46, 47, 120, 141

Oat-grass 232

Blady-gruss 128

Blow-out-grass 141, 213

Blue Grama 47

grass .5, 24, 201, 207

joint , 5,24,60

stem 5, 24

Bonnet-grass 7

Bordeu's-grass 14

Bottle-grass 73

Foxtail 69

Bottom-grass 175

Branch-grass 220

Branching Foxtail 76

Bristly Foxtail 70, 72

Briza maxima 52

minor 52

Broad-leafed Spike-grass 248

Brool-grass 20

Broom-corn Millet 165

grass 26, 29

sedge 26, 29

Brown Bent 9

Millet 165

79

80

Xo.

Broini top 1(51

Hucbloe (see Bulbilis) 57

Buffalo Bunch-grass 115

grass 47, 59, 175, 229. 236

Bull-grass 218. 24 1

Bulrush Millet 188

Bunch-grass. 26, 107, 199, 200, 230, 234, 238

Ked top 100

Spear-grass 199

Bunched Wheat-grass 2

Burdcn's-grass 9, 14

Bur-grass 68

Bushy Blue- stem 23

Buzzard-grass 88

Calf-kill 122

California Blue-grass 202

Timothy 192

Canada Lyme-grass 91

Canadian Bine-grass 201

Sniall-reed 60

Cane 34, 36

Canary-grass 191

Capim gorduro 136

nudlado 136

Carpet-grass 180, 225

Carrizo 36

Cat's-tail-grass 194

Cat-tail Millet 70, 188

Chandler's-grass 4

Cheat 57

Chess '. ■>"

Chicken Corn 27

Chloris gracilis 74

polydactyla 74

Chloropsis Llauchardiana 240

Coast Couch-grass 252

Cock's-foot 81, 158

Cock-spur 66

trrass 68

5

175

22

ir.2

liOO

195

18

Colorado Blue-stem

grass

Saud-grass

Common Manna-grass . .
Meadow-grass

Keed

Sea-reed

Spear-grass 207

Concho-grass 175

Cord-grass 218

Corn-beads ~H

Cotton-grass 163

Couch Broiiie 51

grass 4. 79

Crab-grass ■'<9. 171

Creek-sedge 220

No.

Creejiing Beard-grass 144

Bcnl 13

Crab-grass 172

Fescue 114

Craina 49

Mesquite 119

Panic 170

Poa 201

Sea Meadow-grass 212

Spear-grass 212

Soft-grass 123

Spear-grass 201

AVheat-grass 4

Crested Dog's-tail 80

Crop-grass 89

Crowfoot-grass 81, 89

Grama 47

Ctenium («ce Cainpnlosus) 67

Cuban Cane 36

Cuba-grass 21

Curly Mesquit 119

Dagassa 88

Dakota Millet 70.165

Darnel 134

Deer-grass 97

Devil's Darning-needles 236

grass 4

Kuitting-ueedles 236

Dew-grass 7

Ditch Millet 184

Doab 79

Dog-grass 4

Town-grass 31

Dog's Bent 9

Tail-grass 89

Tooth-grass 79. 89

1 )oorba 79

Downy Oat-grass 40

Triple awn 32

Drop-seed 224

grass 137, 139, 225

Duck-grass 204

Durfa-grass 4

1 )urlee-gras8 4

Dutch-grass 4, 89

Dwarf Meadow-grass 197

Early Bunch-grass 87

Meadow-grass 197

Me8(|uit 59

S])ring-gr.i8S 106

Kast India Millet 188

Egyptian Corn 27

grass 2 1 . S2

Millet 21,18X

Knj^lish Bent 7

81

No.

Englisli Blue-grass 110, 201

grass 207

Rye-grass 133

Epicampes luacroura 97

Eragrostis iieo-nifxicaua 98

Eriochloa auimlata 105

Esparto 237

Euchla'Da Inxuriaiis 108

Evergieon-gi'ass 33

Milk't 21

Everlasting Grass 106

Fall Bedtop 243

False Couch-grass 3

Guinea-grass 21

Mesquit 59

Oat-j;rass 33

Uedtop 204

Feoth er Biinch-f/rans 238

iiedfje-yrass 25

Grass 122, 230, 232, 233, 238

Fcstuca rubra glaucesceus 114

Fibrous-rooted Wheat-grass 1

Fiue-beiit 14:

Flue-top 9, 14

Salt-grass 222,223

.... 171

24

24

4

r luger-grass

Finger-spiked Beard-grass

Wood-grass

Fin's-grass

Fiorin 7,13

Flat-stalked Blue-grass 201

Meadow-grass 201

Floating Foxtail 15

arass 127

Manna-grass 152

Fly-away Grass 12

Fool-hay 12,156

Fox-grass 219

Foxtail 124, 125

Fowl Meadow-grass 61), 151, 204

Frencli Eye-grass 33

Fresh-water Cord-urass 218

Fringed Brome-grass

53

Furze- top 9, 14

Galltta 120, 121

Gama-grass 244

German Millet 70

Giant Millet 71

liye-grass 92

Gilbert's Relief-grass 192

G uinea-grass 164

Glyceria {see Panicularia) 150

maritima (seePuccinellia) 212

Golden Millet 70

Oat -grass 245

4393— No. 14 0

No.

Golden Top 131

Goose-iirass 89, 175, 197, 212

Grama 47,138

China 141

Grapevine-grass . . 167

jMesquit 167

Grass of the Andes 33

Great Bunch-grass 115

Green Foxtail 73

grass 207

Pigeon-grass 73

Valley-grass 21

Guatemala grass 108

Gmiibo-grass 5

Gynerium variogatuin 118

roseum 118

Hair-grass 12

Hairy Fiuger-grass 171

-flowered paapalum 181

Mes(juit 45

Hard Fescue 109

grass 229

Hassock-grass 84

Hedgehog-grass 68

Herd's-grass 7, 14, 194

Hierochloe (.s(e Savastana) 216

Hog Millet 165

Holy-grass 216

Hordenm decorticatum 126

spontaneum 126

Horse Millet 188

H uugar ian Blue-grass 122

Brome-grass 54

grass 70

Imperata hookeri 128

Indian Corn 250

Couch grass 79

grass 23, 26

Millet. ..'. 107, 188

Eeed 77

Rice 251

Wheat 157

Italian Millet 70

Rye-grass. 132

Japan Millet 188

Japanese-grass 51

Latvn-grass 252

Panicle-millet 165

Wheat-grass 51

Job's Tears 78

Joh n son-grass 21

Joint-grass 182

Juncus gerardi 219

June-grass 130, 207

Jungle Rice 158

82

No.

Kafir Corn 27

Kentucky Blue-grass 207

Ivhushiis 28

King's Fescue 112

Knot-grass 1?^2

Knot-root-grass 139

Koda 184

Korakau 88

Large Caue 34

Crow foot- grass ir/J

If'ater-grass 181

Wbite-graiuod M o n n t a i u

Bice 146

Lemon grass 67

Lime-grass 84

Little Blue-stem 26

Crab-grass 172

Loug-leafed ik'iit-grass 65

Lou Grama 48

Spcar-grass 197

Louisiaua-grass 180

Lygeum spartum 237

Lyme-gras3 96

Macoun's Bye-grass 93

Marsh Bent-grass 7

grass 218,219

Maiden Cane 160

Mais de Coyote 250

Maize 250

Marram 18

Mandna 88

Mauisuris coinpressa 135

Manitoba Millet 165

Manna- grass 171

Maiiorrin 251

Mauy-eared Grama 48

flowered Millet-grass 149

Mat-grass 18

May-grass : 197

Meadow ( at's-tail-grass 194

Fescue 110

Foxtail 17

Soft-grass 122

Spear-grass 153

Mean's-grass 21

Mesquit 31,50,119

-grass 47, 59

Mexican ]5room-root 97

Krerlasling-granH 105

Lawn-grass 117, 143

Salt-grass 100

llhixh- 97

Millet 70. 165

Mission-grass 229

Mitchell-grasH 37

No.

Muhleiiberg'e-grass 142

Mublenbergia viresieus 138

Muiiro-grass 154

Mnskit-grass 45. 47

Miitton-gra>'8 202

136

21

2

16

83

9,11

146

. 26

199

Molasses-grass

Moroceo Millet

Moiiutaiu Blue-grass
Foxtail

Oat-grass.

Eedtop

Eice

Sedge-giass

Spear- glass

Timothy 16,193

Native Meadow Oat-grass 38

Timothy 193

Xeedle-and-iliread 230

grass 31,230

Nerved Manna-grass 1 53

, 206

137

11

41

33

156

81

209

Palm leafed Grass 168. 174

Nevada l^lne-grass.

Nimble Will

j Northern Kedtop

j Oats

I Oat-grass

Old Witch-grass .

Orchard-grass . . .

Orcheston-grass .

Pampasgrass

Panic Bent-grass
Para-grass

ibs

.. 154

166

J'aramatta-grass 225

Pearl Millet 188

Pennisetnin Ictnglstylnm 189

Perennial Eye-grass 133

Phalaris angnsta 192

Pigeon-grass 73

Pimento-grass 1^29

Pine Bnneh-grass 113

grass 64

Pinyon-grass 113

riumc-grass 10;{, 104, 138

Poa il a va 205

Poison Eye-grass 131

.. 171

.. 217

.. 211

63

. . 236

. 87,130

. . 13 )

99

31

178

Polish Millet

Wlieat

Polliuia cnmmiugii

I'ony-grass

Pori-upine-grass

Prairie-grass

June-grass

Pungent Meadow-grass

]'uri)le Beard-grass

grass

83

No.

Purple paspalum 179

Top 243

Wood-grass 26

Qnafk-grass 4, 86

Quake-grass 4

Quaking-grass 52

Quick-grass 4

Quitcli-grass 4

Quivering-grass 107

Eadix anatheri 28

graminis 4

Eagi Millet 8^

Eanolieria-grass 90

Eaudall-grass 110

Eange-grass 167

Bat-tail-grass 135

Ilattlesnale-grass 44, 151

Eay-grass 133

Red Fescue 114

Millet 171

Eed Top 7, 14, 60

pauic-grass 154

Eedjield's-grass 213

Eeed...-- 18.36,251

Bent-grass 61

Canary-grass 1 30, 192

Fescue 110

grass 23,195

MeadoK grass 150

Bcsciie-grass 58

Ehode Island Bent 9, 14

Eibbon Cane 21.5

grass 190

Eice 145

Elver-grass 175

Eolling Spinifex 221

Eottl)oellia (see Manisuris) 135

Eougli Bent 12

Cock's-loot 81

leafed Bent 8

Meadow-grass 2ii9

Stalked Meadow-grass 209

Eonghish Meadow-grass 209

Enuuing Mescjuit 119

Ensh-grass 226

Marsh-grass 219

Eussian Millit 165

Eye 217

grass 92, 133

Saccaton 228

Salem-grass 122

Salt-grass 86, 219, 222

Marsli-grass 219

Sand-hitr 68

grass . 0, 65, 107

No.

Sand Oats 39

Eeed 18

Spur 68

Satin-grass 142

Schrader's Bronie-giass 58

Scutch- grass 4, 79

Sea-coast Bent 10

Lyme-grass 90

Spear-grass 212

Sand Eeed 18

Seaside Millet 182

Oats 249

Sedge 220

grass 29

Seed Mesquit 50

Seneca-grass 216

Sesame-grass 244

Setaria {see Cha-tochloa) 69

Shama Millet 158

Sheep's Fescue 45

Side-oats 45

Silk-grass 12

Silt-grass 182

Sil ver Beard-grass 25

Sinipson's-grass 160

Six- Weeks-grass 48, 197

Slecj»!i-gra8S 235

Slender Fescue 116

Meadow-grass 101

IVheat-grass 6

Slough-grass 44, 218

Small Cane 35

Indi;:n:\Iillet.. 148

Smaller Blue-grass 201

Smooth lirome 54

Brome- grass 56

Cliloris 75

Meadow-grass 207

Paspalum 183

Eye-grass 98

Stalked Meadow-grass 207

Soft Sea Lyme-grass 94

Sorgh um 27

Southern Canarjj-grass 192

Eragrostis 102

Spear-grass 102

Spanish-grass 1C6

Spear-grass 197, 107, 236

Spike-grass 86, 249

Spiny Eolling-grass 221

Sprouting Crab-gra.ss 170

Millet 169

Sqnirrel-grass 125

-tail- grasx 229

St. .iugiisiine- grass 229

84

72

99
233
197
215
211

14
225

5:^
129
204

No.

St. Mary's-grass 21, 164

Stewart's Cauary-gra>ss 192

Stickers

Stiiik-(/r((f>ii

Stipa jHiinata neo-mexicaiia

Suffolk-grass

Sugai' Cane

(/rass

Summer Dew-grass

Sm It '.-(jraSH

Stcamp Che^x

Millet

Wire-grass

Sweet-grass 216

Keed 77

Vernal-grass 30

Scented-grass 30

Spring grass 30

Verual-grass 30

Switch-grass 176

Syrian-grass 21

Tall Fescue - - - HO

Grama 45

Meadow Fescue 110

Oat-grass 33

Oat-grass 33

Quaking-grass 151

Redtop 14,243

Sheep's Fescue 109

Tame Timothy 194

Tear-grass 78

Teff 98

Tennessee Fescue 114

Oat-grass 83

Teosinte 108

Terrell-grass 91, 96

Texan ^fesciuit 50

Texas Illue-grass 198

Millet 175

Thatch 220

grass 218

Tickle-grass i2

Timolhy 194

Tootli-achi grass 67

Triticum a-stivum speltnm 246

Tufted Hair-grass 84, 85

Turkey-foot 22, 24

Tns<:iroia Rice 251

Tussock-grass 203, 225

19

4

249

56

90

227

Twisted Beard-grass . . .

Twitch-griiss

Uuiola condensata

Uprxgh t Chess

Sea Lyme-grass
I'sar-grass .

Tunilla-grass -'16

No.

Various-leafed Fescue HI

Vasey's Spear-grass 208

Velvet-grass 122

Lawn-grass 122

Meadow Soft-grass 122

Mesquit 122

^ ernal-grass 30

Vetivert 28

Viue-Mesquit 167

Virginia Beard-grass 29

Lyme grass 96

Wall Barley 125

Water Conch 182

Foxtail : 15

grass 159

Meadow -grass 150

Oats 251

Rice 251

Western Beard grass 31

Brome-grass 55

Co uch -grains 3

Jnne-grass 130

Quack-grass 3

Rye-grass 92

Wheat-'irass 5

Wheat 246

grass 4, 5

Wheeler's Blue-grass 210

White Bent 7, 26

Grama 45, 47

Rush 219

Spear-giass 150

Timothy 122

-top 7

Wild ]?arley 124

Fescue grass 248

Goose Wheat 247

Millet 73,107

Oat-grass 23,238

Oats 39, 61, 23(i, 238, 248

Quack-grass 5

Red top 176

Rice 158,251

Rye 91, 95, 96

Timolhy 44, 142

Wlieat 95

Willards Bronie grass .57

Windmill-grass 76

Wire Bunch-grass 2

Grama 119,140

grass . 26. 32, 79, S9, 137, 167, 201, 226

! Wiry Wheat-grass 1'

Witch-grass 4

Woiid-grass 23, 139

Hair-grass . - 8h

85

No.

Wood Meadow-grass 205

Reeil-grass 77

Spear-grass 196

Woolly Bent-grass 65

Jointed Grama 45

Soft-grass 122

Yard-grass B9

No.

Yellow Foxtail 69

Oat-grass 245

Top 62

Yerba de Para 166

Yorkshire Fog 122

White 122

Zacate 228

O

Bulletin No. 15. Agros.as.

U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE.

DIVISION OF AGROSTOLOGY.
[CiraiUM and Forajjc Plant Inve!<«tigations.]

A REPORT

UPON THE

FORAGE PLANTS AND FORAGE RESOURCES

OF THE

GULF STATES.

BX

S. M. TRACY,

Formerly Director of ihe Mississippi Af/riciiltural Experiment Station.

PREPARED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE AGROSTOLOGIST.

WASHINGTON:

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.
1898.

LETTER OF TRANSMinAL.

U. S. Department op Agriculture,

Division of Agrostology,

Washington, I). C, July 15, 1898.

Sir : I have the honor to trausmit herewith, aud recommend for i)ub-
lication as Biilletiu No. 15 of this Division, a report by Prof. S. M.
Tracy, of Mississippi, ou the Forage Plants aud Forage Resources of
the Gulf States east of Texas. This report is iu liue with the investi-
gations of the grasses and forage plants of the South now being car-
ried ou by this Division.

The grazing and forage problems iu the South are of great impor-
tance; keen competition is compelliug the adoption of a more diversi-
fied system of agriculture than has existed iu the past. Fine cattle
and good milk and butter are more profitable than cotton, and there is
an increasing demand for good hay aud i)asture grasses and other for-
age crops. The climate is excellent for the growth of raauy kinds of
grasses, and the soils are for the most part good or readily susceptible
of care and cultivation.

There are between 300 and 400 species of grasses in the five Gulf
States east of Texas. One observer has found in the State of Alabama
alone 255 kinds. A large proportion of these grasses are unknown in
the Northern and Western States, being peculiar to the Gulf coast
region. This abundance of native grasses indicates that the South
is naturally a good grass country, and there are wide areas in each
of these States which may be profitably devoted to the formation of
meadows and pastures.

The value aud adaptability of these many kinds, and of foreign sorts
as well, to special purposes, or to local conditions, ought to be systematic-
ally investigated. The work of determining the most practical methods
of introducing and cultivating those grasses which are most likely to
succeed and which will at the same time be best suited to meet the
needs of the stock raisers and dairymen, has been approved by you,
with instructions to this Division to begin an investigation of the grasses
and forage plants and forage problems of the Gulf States. Particular
attention will be given to noting the abundance and value of the native
forage plants and the possible methods to be employed in maintaining
or improving the existing conditions of pasturage and forage supplies.
A circular letter requesting information relative to the points involved

3

4

in the investigation was sent to parties interested in tlie work i^roposed,
and many replies containing much valuable information bearing on the
subject have been received.

In connection with the preparation of the present report, Professor
Tracy made a large collection of the native Southern grasses, and fur-
nished the l^ivision much valuable information relative to the preva-
lence and distribution of the species. The data thus acquired, together
with that afforded by collections in the National Herbarium, will be
used in preparation of a list of the grasses of the South, while the infor-
mation contained in the replies to the circular letters above referred
to will be used in the compilation of a report of a more practical nature.
The illustrations for the present bulletin have been carefully selected
by the Agrostologist from the drawings prepared under his supervision.
Eespectfully,

F. Lamson-Scribner,

Agrostologist.
Hon. James Wilson,

Secretary of Agriculture.

CONTENTS.

Pa^e.

Introductory 9

Soils of the Gulf States 9

Natural pastures 10

The formation of pastures 13

The essentials of a good pasture 16

Selection of varieties 16

Care of pasture lauds 17

Temporary pastures 17

Winter pastures 18

Meadows 19

Alfalfa 19

Bermuda grass 20

Cowpeas 21

Crab-grass 21

German millet 22

Johnson grass 22

Eed clover 23

Soiling and fodder crops 24

The more imjiortaut hay and pasture plants 25

Grasses 25

Miscellaneous forage crops 42

5

ILLUSTRATIONS,

Page.

Fig. 1. Characteristic Sontbern grasses 11

2. Alfalfa - 19

3. Bermuda grass 20

4. .Johnson grass 22

5. Big Blue-stem 2fi

6. Little Blue-stem 28

7. Orchard grass 30

8. Colorado grass, or Texas millet 31

9. Rescue grass 34

10. Side-oats Grama 36

11. Tall oat-grass 37

12. Teosiute 31)

13. Large Water-grass _. 41

14. Bur-clover 4^3

15. Canada field pea 44

16. Cassava 45

17. Japan clover 46

18. Peanut 47

19. Soy Bean 48

20. Hairy Vetch 51

7

FORAGE PLANTS AND FORAGE RESOURCES OF THE

GULF STATES.

INTRODUCTORY.

Until within the last fifteen years it was commonly believed that good
pastures did not exist in the Gulf States of Louisiana, Mississippi,
Alabama, Georgia, and Florida, and that good hay could not be made
in that region. With rare exceptions the pastures used were composed
of the wire grasses and broom sedges of the pine woods, and the larger
part of the hay which was found on the market, even in the smaller
towns, was brought from the Xorth.

The work which has already been done by the United States Depart-
ment of Agriculture, together with that of many intelligent planters,
has demonstrated that the soil and climate of the Gulf States are such
as will produce a heavy yield of forage, and that the quality of Southern-
grown hay is fully equal to that of any which can be imported from
other localities.

SOILS OF THE GULF STATES.

The soils of the Gulf States, excepting a small area in northern Ala-
bama and Georgia, are all alluvial. They may be subdivided into six
quite distinct sections with quite ditterent types of soil. These are :

(1) The treeless prairie region of southwestern Louisiana.

This region is mostly low, intersected by numerous rivers and bayous,
and the soil, a sandy loam, is of wonderful fertility.

(2) The Gulf coast region, including a narrow strip along the coast
from Louisiana to Florida.

This region has a rather sandy soil, often quite light on the immediate
coast, but becoming more loamy and usually underlaid with a heavy
clay formation a few miles back from the beach.

(3) The pine woods region, extending from central Louisiana eastward
to Georgia and northern Florida.

The soil in this region is usually a sandy, easily worked loam under-
laid with clay, becoming lighter toward the South, where it merges into
the alluvial soil of the coast district.

(4) The clay loam region of the upper or northern section, extending

from northern Louisiana to central Georgia.

9

10

In tliis region the pine growth is more or less mixed with oaks, hick-
ories, and other deciduous trees. The soil is variable, bdng rich and
fertile along the creek bottoms, but harder, drier, and often somewhat
sterile on the hills. These lauds often suffer seriously from washing.

(5) The black i)rairie region of northeastern Mississippi and western
Alabama.

The soil in this region is black, rich in lime, and affords some of the
best grass lands in the South.

(G) The river bottoms.

While five of the divisions or regions named above are in irregular
belts extendi ug from west to east, all are crossed by rivers, the Ked,
Mississippi, Pearl, Tombigbee, Chattahoochee, and others, which flow in
a southerly direction. Much of the land along these rivers is of very
recent formation and is quite different from that of the neighboring
hills. It is generally extremely fertile, but often suffers from overflows
and for want of drainage. In each of these regions wide variations of
soil may be found, and these difierences occur sometimes on a single
farm.

NATURAL PASTURES.

The natural forage plants vary as widely as the soils. Some adapt
themselves to almost any situation and are quite general in their dis-
tribution, while others are extremely local; some become more vigorous
and abundant under frequent grazing, while others soon disappear
with any change of surroundings^

The natural pastures of the Gulf States are composed largely of
such grasses (fig. 1) as are native to the more or less open pine woods,
while along the streams and roads many foreign grasses and legumes
(clovers or beggar weeds) have become thoroughly naturalized and
add very materially to the value of the range. Of native forage
plants not less than 3~A) species and varieties of grasses alone have
been identified. Of that number, 25 yield fully 75 per cent of the
grazing. Fully 90 ],)er cent of the natural grazing is aftorded by not
more than 30 species. Of the 12 or 15 naturalized and widely distrib-
uted species the proportion of valuable sorts is much larger, as only
those which are able to thrive in this soil and climate and make places
for themselves on ground already occupied by native species could
become established without assistance.

The best native pastures are tho.se of the prairie region of Louisiana,
where the soil is fertile, the climate favorable for an abnost continuous
growth, and where there are no trees to shade the ground or to appro-
priate the moisture and nourishment necessary for the growth of
abundant and nutritious herbage. There the FasjHiluins are the char-
acteristic and most abundant grasses, carpet-grass [P. coniprcsfium}^
large water-grass {P. <lilalati(ni), smoofli water-grass {P. Icnti/erum),
and slender pasi^alum (/'. setactum) being the most common species

11

on the wild prairie, while on lauds which have been grazed for a con-
siderable time carpet-grass occupies a large portion of the ground and
makes a vigorous growth. Among other grasses which are abundant in
this region are Munro-grass {Fanicnm atjrostoides), narrow-leafed panic-
grass (P. angustifoUum)^ barnyard- grass (P. criis-gaUi), mutton-cane (/*.
dichotomum), sprouting crab-grass (P. proliferum), Colorado grass (P.
texamim), switch-grass (P. virgatum), gama {Tripfiacuni dactyloides),
silver-beard [Andropogon argyroius), Elliott's broom sedge [A. elliottii),
big blue-stem {A. provin-
cialis), little blue-stem {A.
scoparius)^ sedge wire-grass
{Aristida paJustru), redtop
{Agrostis vulgaris), and shin-
iuglove-gvi\ss{Eragrostisnit-
ida).

The pastures of this region,
unlike those of most other
sections, improve under
rather heavy grazing on ac-
count of the unusual abun-
dance of water-grasses. Dr.
Knapp, of Lake Charles, La.,
states that while the wild
lands will support one cow
on about three acres, old pas-
tures will give good grazing
for a cow on one acre, and he
has kept two cows per acre
in good condition during nine
months of the year.

The natural pastures along
the alluvial lands of the Red,
Mississippi, and other rivers
are exceedingly variable,
both in quality and in variety
of plants. The tree growth
is usually so dense that or-
dinary grazing plants will
not grow excepting in open
places, and the cane {Arxndhiaria) is the only true grass which is able
to hold its place. In many localities this forms extensive "canebrakes"
which furnish, both winter and summer, grazing for thousands of
cattle. Too heavy grazing soon kills the cane, and it is seldom renewed.
Along the borders of streams and swamps, and wherever the sun can
penetrate, Munro-grass, flat-stemmed panic-grass {Panicum anceps),
barnyard-grass, switch-grass, many- flowered love-grass {Eragrostis
glomerata), fall redtop {Triodia seslerioides), large water-grass, smooth

Fig. 1.— Characteristic Southern grasses, (a) Elymui
virginicus ; (h) I'aspalum ovatum ; {c) Panicum virgatuin ;
(d) Panicum agrostoidcs ; (e) Panicum viscidum ; (/) Pha-
laris angiista ; (g) Danthunia compressa.

12

paspalum {Paspalum kcve), and slender paspaluni, together with two or
three species of vetches, add largely to the grazing. When the lauds
have been grazed for a considerable time the species of Panicum, Era-
grostin, and Triodia disappear and are replaced by carpet-grass, where
the soil is sufficiently sandy, and by Bermuda and redtop on heavier
soils.

In the uplands of the northern pine region of Louisiana and Missis-
sippi the sedge-grasses, wire-grasses, and panic grasses form a large
j)art of the natural growth. Big blue-stem, little blue-stem, and broom-
sedge {Andropogon virginicus), branching triple awn-grass {Aristida
dichotoma), prairie triple-awn- grass {A. oligantha), purplish triple-awn-
grass {A. purpiirascens), slender paspalum, and prairie-grass {^porobolus
asper) are among the more common species on the hills, while along the
streams large water-grass, Terrell-grass [Elymus virginicus), cane, and
gama are more abundant. Under continued grazing many of these,
especially the broom-sedges and wire or needle grasses, disappear and
are largely replaced by Bermuda and lespedeza. W hen grazed too
closely even these become so weakened that they fail to hold the ground
against the worthless and aggressive bitter-weed {Helenium autumnale).
Where the soil is rich in lime, as in the black i)rairie region of Missis-
sippi and Alabama, sweet clover soon establishes itself and becomes
one of the most important of the naturalized species.

Much the same conditions obtain farther to the eastward, in northern
Alabama and Georgia, the wire-grasses (species of Aristida and Sjwro-
bolus) forming a large part of the natural growth; while bunch-grass
{Andropogon tener) grows thickly on the sandy hills, and prairie-grass,
rush-grass {Sporobohis junceus), and southern poverty-grass {S. vaginw-
florns) are common on the more clayey soils.

In the long-leaf pine region along the Gulf coast the number of
species, both of the true grasses and of other forage plants, is much
larger than farther north, and as the woodlands are mostly open and
with very little undergrowth, the natural pastures are better than in
some other sections. Panic grasses, water-grasses, and sedge-grasses
are abundant, and several species not found in other sections assume
considerable importance here. Fringe leafed paspalum {Paspalum cil-
iatifolium), large water-grass, smooth jiaspalum, carpet-grass, slender
paspalum, Munro-grass, flat-stemmed panic, mutton cane, switch-grass,
creeping beard-grass {()2)lismenus setarius), smooth foxtail {CJtaiochloa
hvvigata), Elliott's broom-sedge, brook-grass (.1. glomcratus), big blue
stem, bunch-grass and broom-sedge, branching triple awn-grass, slender
triple-awn-grass {Aristida gracilis), purplish triple-awn-grass, swamp
l)Overty-grass, Muhlenberg's hair-grass {Muhlenbergia capillaris), prai-
rie-grass, rush grass, and Triodia ambigua are among the more promi-
nent species. Branching panic-grass in its several varieties, and here
known as "mutton-cane,'' is, perhaps, the most abundant of any single
species, continuing its growth throughout the entire year and furnish-
ing the bulk of the grazing for thousands of sheep and cattle which

13

winter in tlie woodlands. Continued grazing destroys many of the
wire grasses, which are largely replaced by water-grasses, mutton-cane,
Japan clover or lespedeza, and Bermuda.

Immediately along the coast and on the adjacent islands there are a
number of conspicuously abundant species, though limited in range to
the immediate vicinity of the water. Among these are bitter panic
{Panicum amarum) and creeping panic (P. repens), seaside finger-grass
{Chloris petrcea), St. Augustine grass {Stenotaplirum dimidiatum), salt
grass {Bistichlis spicata), and creek-sedge {Spartina stricta maritima).
In the salt marshes wild-rice millet {Zizaniopsis miliacea), Munro grass,
and switch-grass are abundant, while giant millet {Chtvtochloa magna)
and barnyard-grass often make immense growths. Among other native
forage plants abundant in this region are low killinga {KiUhujapumila),
which often covers considerable areas and is the most valuable of the
sedges for summer grazing, wild bean ( Vigna glabra), with its pea-like
growth, and Florida beggar- weed {Desmodium tortuosum) on the more
sandy soils. When the field is grazed so closely as to weaken the ^
growth of the sedge-grasses and wire grasses, carpet- grass takes pos-
session of the Southern pasture.

As a whole, the native pastures of the Gulf States contain a much
larger number of species than do those of the North, and so furnish
excellent grazing while they last, but many of them soon become so
weakened by constant grazing and trampling that they finally give
place to worthless weeds or leave the ground bare, to be washed and
-gullied by the winter rains.

THE FORMATION OF PASTURES.

With a climate favorable to an almost continuous growth, and with
soil easily worked and promptly responding to good management, it is
not difficult to secure permanent pastures of the highest quality; but
in order to obtain the best returns, the same intelligent care must be
used in their preparation and management as are given other portions
of the farm.

The best pastures are those which contain the greatest variety of
plants yielding palatable food for stock. These plants should be such
as make their greatest growth at different seasons, in order that there
may be a continuous supply; a portion of them should be legumes, both
for their superior fattening qualities and for their effect on the soil, and
as large a proportion as possible should be perennials. Such a pasture
can not be made in one season, but requires time for its best develop-
ment, and when once secured its value and feeding capacity will increase
yearly under good management.

Excellent pastures are sometimes made from the natural sod, but in
most cases it is more satisfactory, and in the end less expensive, first
to plow the ground and use it two or three years for corn or cotton,
which will kill the wild broom-sedges and wire-grasses and change the

14

character of the soil so that the cultivated grazing plants will be able
to establish themselves so thoroughly as to prevent the growth of
other and less desirable sorts. The prairie lands of Louisiana make
excellent pastures without plowing, and the tliiu, sandy lands along
the Gulf coast can be made into very satisfactory pastures simply by
grazing to destroy the wire-grasses and to encourage the growth of
carpet-grass. The coming in of the carpet-grass can be materially
havStened by mowing an old pasture in July or August when the grass
is maturing its seed and scattering the hay over the new field. Wet
places should be planted with either roots or seed of the large water-
grass, which grows well in such places and is especially valuable during
winter. Many of the coast soils are so deficient in lime that it is diffi-
cult to secure a good growth of any of the clovers. Where the soil is
not too light, lespedeza will do fairly well, and as its growth improves
year after year, it pays to sow it in all pastures. On light soils which
contain lime, like many of those in southern Georgia and Florida, the
Florida beggar -weed grows well, reseeds itself freely, and makes good
summer and fall grazing, but yields nothing during the winter and
spring months. It is very little trouble to make good pastures on the
coast soils which have once been in cultivation, as carpet-grass takes
possession of such fields very quickly. Bermuda will cover the more
fertile spots, and the sowing of lespedeza or beggar- weed will provide
the best leguminous grazing plants for these soils.

Kich and moist alluvial soils, like those along the rivers and large
streams, will finally become covered with a growth of Bermuda grass,
but even on such lands the spread of the grass is slow, and the ground
can be covered much more quickly if it is first plowed to kill the coarser
growth and bring it into better mechanical condition. These soils
make better pastures than do any other, as they are naturally the
most fertile, most easily kept in condition, and will support a greater
variety of plants. For these, as for all fertile soils, Bermuda is the
best possible foundation, and should be planted as described on page 25,
but as its season for good grazing lasts only six or eight months, it
should have other species planted with it. Large water-grass and
Terrell-grass will give good winter grazing along the water courses and
in damp places, while bur-clover and lespedeza should be sown on the
drier portions. Along creeks, the borders of marshes, and other wet
places redtop and alsike clover should be sown at the rate of a bushel
of the former and two quarts of the latter per acre. On black soils
four quarts of red clover seed may be added with advantage.

On the drier and harder upland soils it is almost impossible to secure
good pastures without previous cultivation of the laud. The natural
pastures in this region are all that can be desired during the summer
and early fall, but fail (juickly after the first frosts and do not become
really good again until April. Here, as elsewhere, Bermuda and les-
pedeza are the best foundation for a i^asture, as both make vigorous

15

growths and both are permanent, although neither is of much value
during winter or spring. No grazing phint has been found which will
make a satisfactory winter and spring growth on the dry, hard, clay
hills of this region, and such localities can be depended upon for
summer and fall grazing only.

On the seepy hillsides and on the lower lands the grazing season may
be greatly extended and good permanent pastures are not hard to mako
by the use of the same plants which have been recommended for the
alluvial soils. Bur-clover does well on these soils, and in many places
wild vetches are abundant, beginning their growth in the early winter
and making good grazing by February or March.

On moist lime soils, especially where partially shaded, Kentucky blue
grass does well, but it is of no value on the light colored or on the red
clay soils. Where the soil is somewhat sandy, old fields are often made
into pastures by mowing carpet-grass and scattering the hay over the
knolls and hilltops in the fall, and following this with lespedeza seed
in the spring. It costs but little to seed a pasture in this way, and it
is often the best plan to follow. The ground is sure to be covered with
a good growth of crab- grass the first year, and by the second year the
carpet-grass and lespedeza will be scattered over the entire field. In
the "cane-hill" region of northern Louisiana and southern Mississippi
this is the more common method of making pastures. On many farms
temporary pastures with annual plants in rotatioji with cultivated crops
are more economical and satisfactory than are permanent pasture fields.

Farther eastward, on the clay uplands of Alabama and Georgia, good
permanent pastures are still more difficult to secure. When the sparse
natural growth of wire-grass and broom-sedges has disappeared, better
grasses fail to take their places, and the land produces only a scant
growth of poverty weed with a little thin fescue in early spring, with
fall panic and similar grasses later in the season. The bottom lands
of this section, however, make fine grazing lands and are capable of
producing a great variety of plants, both true grasses and legumes.
Bermuda gives the bulk of the grazing, but redtop, Canadian blue
grass, lespedeza, bur-clover, and the vetches all do well. In some
places Texas blue grass flourishes and makes a heavy yield for winter
grazing.

Farther south, on the immediate Gulf coast and in the greater part
of Florida where the growing season is practically continuous, Bermuda
is largely replaced by carpet-grass, while fewer perennials and more
annuals are used to add to the yield and variety. Crab-grass and Mexi-
can clover are everywhere in cultivated fields from which the crops
were removed by midsummer, and on many of the native pastures beg-
gar-weed is the predominant growth. In the larger part of this region
only a very small proportion of the land is in cultivation, so that cattle
have such an abundant range in the woods that the need of permanent
pastures has scarcely been felt as yet, and but little attention has been

16

given to tlie cultivated grazing plants. Judge J. M. Jones, of Florida,
states that on the natural ranges and in the old fields cattle will make
a good gain for six months, about hold their own for three months, and
will need feeding duriug theother three months to keep them in good con-
dition. As the proportion of cultivated lands increases, the ranges and
permanent pastures will become as important in Florida as elsewhere.
In the black prairie district of Mississippi and Alabama good pastures
can be made with but little trouble by the use of Bermuda, lespedeza,
and melilotus, with redtop and alsike for the wet soils.

THE ESSENTIALS OF A GOOD PASTURE.

In general, the making of a good permanent pasture is a more dififlcult
matter in the South than in the North, as it is necessary to provide for
a louger grazing season. There is no one grazing plant which continues
in active growth through the entire year, and the best growth of most
species is made in the course of three or four mouths. Some make
nearly their whole growth in the early spring months, others do not
begin their growth until late and continue to grow until killed by frost,
while still others begin their growth with autumn rains and mature
their seed in the early spring. AVhen one species has completed its
growth, or becomes dormant for a few months, others are ready to take
its place at once, and so a constant succession is maintained.

SELECTION OF VARIETIES.

With such constant changes it is often difficult to select species for
a mixture, each of which will hold its own without overgrowing weaker
species or being crowded out by its stronger neighbors. The best
plants for permanent pastures must be either perennials, or annuals
which reseed the ground freely and surely. They must be adapted to
soils of widely different character, their roots must be able to endure
continued drought, and they must be palatable to all kinds of stock.
No one species will cover and hold the ground throughout the whole
year, and so it is necessary to use a mixture of several kinds, at least
one of which should be a legume, and it is difficult to arrange these
mixtures so that they will be suited to the widely varying Southern
soils, or even to the different soils which are usually found on a single
form. Whatever may be planted will usually i)rove to be only the
foundation of the pasture, as every locality has native or naturalized
species which will finally occupy a considerable portion of the ground,
and often some of these self introduced sorts will i)rove as valuable as
many of those which have been introduced and deliberately planted.
For the whole of the Gulf States, excepting the sandy soils near the
coast, Bermuda and Japan clover should be the foundation of every
permanent pasture. On alluvial lands add redtop and alsike clover
for the damper soils, with orchard grass, sweet clover, and bur clover
for the drier lands. On the uplands, yellow loam, and clay sections,
orchard grass and bur clover do well on the dry soils, while for wet

17

places redtop, large water-grass, and alsike clover should be added.
For the black prairie region Texas blue grass and sweet clover are the
best additions. On the light soils of the coast region carpet grass,
large water-grass, giant beggar-weed, and mutton-cane largely replace
the redtop and clover of more Northern sections.

CARE OP PASTURE LANDS.

When a satisfactory permanent pasture has been secured, it needs
the same care and attention which are given to other parts of the farm.
Heavy fertilizing is seldom necessary, though an occasional applica-
tion of cotton seed meal and muriate of potash are profitable for stim-
ulating a better growth on thin spots. The most common injury to
pastures is that caused by being grazed too closely. When grazed so
closely as to leave the surface of the ground partially exposed and to
weaken the roots of the grasses, rolling lands are often seriously injured
by washing. Small washes are easily stopped by driving in a few
stakes and banking around them witli Bermuda sods. On clay soils
the presence of bitterweed is a sure indication that the land has been
overpastured. It is practically impossible to destroy the weed by
digging or mowing, and the best treatment for a pasture in whicli it
has made its appearance is to fertilize liberally and graze it less
heavily, when the weed will soon disappear. It is never troublesome
in fertile pastures which are not overgrazed.

TEMPORARY PASTURES.

tn a region where it is so difticult to secure perennials for permanent
pastures, and where the growing season is so long that two or more
crops can be grown on the same land yearly, temporary pastures of
quick-growing annuals will always be largely used, and in many sec-
tions will afford the most economical grazing for different seasons.
Fields from which oats, melons, potatoes, and other early crops have
been removed make fine pastures from July until the end of summer.
Cornfields in which cowpeas have been i)lanted make the best of fall
grazing, while oats and vetches make abundant and nutritious winter
feed. These can be grown on laud from which early crops have
already been taken. Tliey cost nothing but the seed and the sowing,
and on many soils heavy volunteer crops give fine grazing for three or
four months with absolutely no cost. Under such conditions tempo-
rary pastures are not makeshifts, but are an important part of a well-
arranged rotation.

The most valuable plants for summer and fall grazing are crab-grass,
crowfoot, Mexican clover, and Florida beggar- weed, all of which make
volunteer growths so late in the season as not to interfere with other
crops, and will cover and protect fields which would otherwise be idle.
Crab grass is abundant everywhere in cultivated land. Crowfoot is
rare in the northern and western sections, but is common southward
5729- No. 15 2

18

from tlie begiuuing of tlie sandy pine region in Alabama and Georgia,
and often covers the gronnd as thickly as does crab-grass in other
sections. Mexican clover is abundant only near the coast, where it is
usually found in fields with crab-grass, but is valued less for grazing
than for hay. Beggar- weed is more abundant in Florida than elsewhere,
though fields containing a mixed growth of that plant, crab- grass, and
crowfoot are often seen in southern Alabama and (Georgia. Beggar-weed
has been sown in many localities in the coast region, but does not seem
to have gained the foothold elsewhere that it has in Florida. Where it
does do well it is regarded as the most valuable plant for summer and
fall pastures. It is eaten by all kinds of stock and is fattening, but
it is said that horses and mules can not stand hard work without other
feed.

For later grazing the same plants may be used, and cowpeas and
chicken corn, together with pickings from the corn and hay fields, make
the fall pastures ricli and varied in favorable seasons; but in seasons of
severe drought they often become dry and poor, and it is in such seasons
more than at any other time that silos and soiling crops are needed.
Although cowpeas do not bear grazing well they make the best of feed,
and are often more profitable when used for pasturage than when used
in any other way. The droppings from the grazing animals are left in
the field and serve to maintain the fertility of the soil. On very light
or sandy soils the plowing under of the vines is less beneficial than
the trampling of the stock and the addition of the manure. While it is
more profitable to cut the vines for hay when grown by themselves,
pasturing them is usually better when they are grown in cornfields.
The fertilizing value of the crop is worth more than the cost of the
seed, so that the pasturage is all clear prolit. Chicken corn is more
abundant in the black prairie region than elsewhere, and makes its
growth late in the season after corn is nearly matured. Being a vol-
unteer crop, it costs nothing and is worth nearly or (juite as much as
sorghum for grazing puri)Oses. A good grazing plant which will bear
the autumn drought without injury would be a great boon to the
Southern stock raiser.

WINTER PASTURES.

For winter grazing, oats, rye, barley, and hairy vetch are the most
successful crops, and a mixtun; of "turf oats" and hairy vetch has
given more satisfactory results than has any other winter-grazing
crop which has been tested. The turf oats are more hardy than are
most other varieties, never having been injured by cold in central
Mississippi or Alabama. They stool very freely, often sending up 100
or more stems from a single root, and they bear close and long-con-
tinued grazing without injury. For winter grazing they should be
sown as early as October, though December sowing may be made for
early spring feed.

These oats ripen later than do other varieties, and the yield of grain
is about the same. Ordinarily they are entirely free from rust, though

19

wben ou low aud wet ground they sometimes suffer from that disease.
The vetch grows best on a rich and heavy soil, does fairly well ou rather
thin clay lauds, but is worthless ou light soils. Wheu sowu with turf
oats, it makes but little show iu early winter, but from January ouward
it nearly doubles the amount of grazing and does not interfere with the
growth of the oats. Mr, E. R. Lloyd, the agriculturist of the Missis-
sippi experiment station, says: "This is the best combination I have
ever seen for winter grazing, and our farmers are beginning to realize
its value. Ou the bottom land where we grew the mixture last year
we grew a crop of peas during the summer, with a view to hilling out
the Johnson grass. This fall
there is very little of the
Johnson grass to be seen,
while the oats and vetch
came up well after the first
fall of rain, without reseed-
ing. The field is now (No-
vember 14) very green and
would make fine grazing.''
On good soils the mixture
may be grazed from jSTovem
ber to March, when, if the
stock be taken off, it will
make fully a ton of fine hay
per acre by the last of May.
If grazed continuously until
June, it will usually reseed
the ground sufficiently for a
crop the following season,
though the volunteer oat crop
is rather uncertain.

MEADOWS.

Bermuda, Johnson grass,
and cowpeas furnish fully
three-fourths of the hay used in the Gulf States. A dozen or more
other si)ecies are used to some extent, and a still larger number might
be advantageously cultivated. Much of what has been said in regard
to permanent pastures applies equally well to the formation of per-
manent meadows. The more important of the grasses and forage
plants used in the formation of such meadows are described below.

Fig. 2. — Alfalfii (Medicago sativa).

ALFALFA.

Alfalfa (fig. 2) is rapidly growing in favor, especially on well-drained
alluvial soils, where it gives repeated cuttings and improves with age.
On the rich soils along tlie Ked and Mississippi rivers it is especially
valuable, and it is also succeeding well in many places along the Gulf

20

coast froui Louisiana to Florida. It is not often successful ou tlie yellow
or red clay uplands, but is very promisino- on the strong lime soils, even
where the rotten limestone rock comes within a few inches of the surface.
Alfalfa is often grown ou lands which are seeded to Johnson grass,
and in such fields the yield of hay is very large, from 3 to 5 tons per acre
of very fine (luality. Such fields make very satisfactory and profitable
meadows for a few years; but as the Johnson grass needs an occasional

plowing, which can not be
given without killing the
alfalfa, the latter must be
resoW'U each time the laud
is plowed.

BERMUDA GRASS.

lu the region in question
no grass is used more
largely for hay than Ber-
nuula (fig. 3). After a
meadow has been in this
grass some years the sod
becomes so matted with
roots that the growtli is
lessened, and it should be
idowed or cut n'ith a disk
harrow, in order to give the
grass a fresh start. If
plowed in the fall, after the
last cutting has been made,
the field should be sown
with oats, vetches, or a
mixture of the two. As
the sod is very tough, it
should be thoroughly har-
rowed both before and after
the seed is sown, and, if
l)ossible, finished with a
roller, so as to leave the
surface smooth for the
mowing machine. The oat and vetch crop will make a. heavy yield of
very snperior hay in May, and by October the Hermnda will fully
occu])y the ground and yield a heavy cutting. As the grass rarely
matures seed in this country, the manure made from feeding it may be
used without danger of spreading the grass where it is not wanted.
Ked clover is often sown where the land is first set with Bernuula, and
although it does not usually make a heavy growth and becomes very
scattering after the first two or three years, it very materially incieases
the yield of hay, wliicli i« superior in (juality toeitlier Bermuda or clover.

Flo. ^.—Bernuula frrass (Oiinutlon (larhilon).

21

COWPEAS.

Of all annual plants used for liay, cowpeas are tlie most important,
the most widely used, and the best. The cowpea is one of the few crops
which will make rich fall grazing or yield abundant crops of good hay,
aiul at the same time leave the soil iu an improved chemical and
mechanical condition for succeeding crops. Cowpeas make the best
" catch crop " which can be grown for hay. They are the best crop
which can be grown on land from which wheat, oats, or any early matur-
ing crop has been gathered. There are many cultivated varieties of
cowpeas, some maturing within sixty days from planting, while others
continue to grow six months or more. If a heavy yield of hay is wanted
the Clay, Whip-poor-will, and Unknown are the best varieties. If the
crop is to be pastured the Black, Ked Ripper, and Unknown are good;
while for stock Black Crowder, Clay, and Unknown give heavy yields.
When the crop is to be saved for hay it should be cut as soon as the
first pods become yellow, and the planting should be timed so that this
will occur during the dry weather of September and October. Although
the hay is regarded as being somewhat difficult to cure, it is not so when
cnt at the proper stage of maturity and handled with care. Bulletin
No. 40 of the Mississippi Experiment Station gives the following direc-
tions for saving the hay:

Tlie mower is started in tlie moi'uiug as soon as tlie dew is off, and run until noon,
or until as much lias been cut as can be bandied in the afternoon. As soon as the
top of the cut vines is well wilted the field is run over with a tedder to turn the
vines over and expose them more thorougly to the air and sun. When the crop is
very heavy the tedder is used a second time, though this is seldom necessary. Vines
which have been cut in the morning and teddered in the afternoon are usually dry
enough to put into small cocks the nest afternoon, and if the weather promises to
be favorable they are left in the cocks two or three days before being hauled to the
barn.

If it should rain before the vines are put in cocks they are not touched until the
surface is well dried off, and then they should l)e teddered as though freshly cut.
The vines in cocks are not opened until well dried on the outside, and are then
handled as little as is possible to secure a thorough airing. A light rain does very
little damage to the hay, even after the curing has begun, if handled promptly and
properly, and a heavy rain for a day or two may fall on freshly cut vines and do little
or no damage. The essential point in making the hay is to do the work as ra])idly
as possible, and to avoid any handling of the vines when wet with either dew or rain.
We find that it pays well to use a tedder for stirring up the freshly cut vines so as
to admit the sun and air freely, though if a tedder can not be had the work can be
done nearly as well, though more slowly, with a fork.

Cowpeas may be planted at any time from May until August, either
broadcast or in drills. If the large growing varieties are planted in
hills early in the season, 4 quarts will plant an acre, while if dwarf
varieties are sown broadcast in August, 2 bushels should be used.

CRAB-GRASS.

Crab-grass is one of the volunteer grasses used largely for hay. It
is a universal growth in fields from which oats, wheat, and other early
crops have been harvested, and on rich soils will make a heavy yield of

22

excellent Lay. In the northern section it often occupies the ground
alone, but in the coast region it is usually mixed with beggar- weed or
Mexican clover, especially the latter. On well fertilized, sandy soils
near the coast, crab grass, and clover often yield fully 2 tons per acre

of hay. It needs unusual
care in drying, but if cut
before it is overripe, and
properly cured, the hay is
of good quality.

GERMAN MILLET.

German millet in nearly
all of its various forms can
be grown as a "catch crop"
on ground which becomes
vacant in June or Julv, as
it will mature in from six to
eight weeks from sowing
and can be gathered in time
for fall planting. The crop
is exhausting to the soil,
and should be sown only on
good ground. Good crops
can be made by alternating
with hairy vetch, the latter
seeming to provide the ni-
trogen needed by the millet.
The vetch is mowed as soon
as the sied begins to ma-
ture, about the first of June.
The land isthcn plowed and
sown with millet, which is
cut in July. After that a
moderate crop of crab grass
can be cut in Octobei-, and
the vetch seed left in the soil will cover the ground for winter grazing
or for an early crop of hay. This is one of the best hay rotations
uliich can be used for a rich and fairly heavy soil.

Fig. 4. — Johnson grass (Andrnpoi/on halepense).

JOHNSON GRASS.

Johnson gra.ss ((ig. 4) is a rich lund grass. It is at the same time
the most highly praised and the most severely condemned grass found
in the South, ami both ojjinions have ample foundation. It uiuloubtedly
yields moie and better hay than any other i)lant grown in this region.
It will give from two to four cuttings yearly, and each cutting will make
from 1 to 2 tons of hay. The hay, although coarse in appearance,

23

is sweet, tender, and nutritious. Horses and mules prefer it to any
other. It is easy to secure a good stand of the grass, and when once
established, a meadow is easily maintained as long as the planter may
desire. The serious objections to its cultiv^ation are the great difficulty
of destroying it when the land is wanted for other purposes and the
ease with which it spreads to Gelds where it is not wanted. In many
localities it is the worst weed with which the cotton planter has to con-
tend. It is more persistent on rich, heavy, and somewhat moist soils?,
and on such soils it is very seldom that it is ever completely eradicated.
On dry and sandy soils it can be killed in one season by frequent and
repeated plowings, but on heavy soils the fleshy roots will retain their
vitality for months, even though frequently disturbed. Practically, it
is never completely destroyed when once established on a favorable
soil, and the farmer wlio plants it should do so only after careful consid-
eration and with the expectation that it will remain on the land forever.
- When cultivated for hay, the roots form such a dense mat in three or
four years that the yield is much lessened. The ground should then be
plowed and thoroughly harrowed during the winter or early spring,
after which the grass will make a growth as vigorous as ever. The
yield of hay is largely increased by sowing sweet clover with it, as the
latter makes its first growth so early in the spring as to aflord an
additional cutting, while its deep biennial roots serve to keep the soil
in a much better chemical and mechanical condition. Johnson grass
does not bear grazing well, and when pastured it will soon almost
wholly disappear, though it will still make sufficient growth to keep
the roots alive and ready to start vigorously when the land is plowed
again. When Johnson grass meadows begin to fail, many planters
pasture them a year or two, and then plant in corn or cotton. Two or
three cultivated crops cau be grown on such land with very little
trouble from the grass, but after a few crops have been made it will
usually have regained such a hold that the ground needs only to be
smoothed again to make it a profitable meadow. This grass seems
specially adapted to the black prairie region and is now more or less
abundant in all of that section. In other parts of the country it is
more abundant on heavy alluvial soils than elsewhere, and is quite rare
along the coast.

RED CLOVER.

Eed clover grows well on rich lime soils which are in good condition,
but needs to be managed somewhat differently from the method fol-
lowed in the Northern States. Here, it should be sown in the fall,
as soon as possible after the first of September. When sown at that
time on well-prepared and finely pulverized soil, the land being rolled
to compact the surface soil and prevent it from drying too deeply,
the seed seldom fails to germinate and to make sufficient growth to
become well established before cold weather. The crab-grass and
weeds which come up with it are killed by the first heavy frost, and

24

when the warm days of spring come, the clover grows so rapidly as to
keep down the weeds. On good soil it will make from 2 to 2i tons of
hay in May, with another lighter crop of hay or a good crop of seed in
Jnly. In favorable seasons it will make a third cutting, after which it
usually begins to fail, and the ground should then be plowed for late
corn. It is nndoubtedly the best of the clover family for rich soils
which are in good condition, but it is useless to sow it on barren fields
or on rough and poorly prepared lands of any kind. It has not been
satisfactory on either sandy or white lime lands.

SOILING AND FODDER CROPS.

The soiling crops available are not numerous, although there are
many grasses and legumes which might be used. Alfalfa is used more
than any other one plant, and on favorable soils its yield is heavy and
continues for a long time. In central Mississippi, Alabama, and Geor-
gia it can be cut once in six weeks from March until its growth is
stopped by fall drouth, while further south its growth is more nearly
continuous, Teosinte Avill outyield any other plant on the rich alluvial
soils near the coast, but it is not ready for use before midsummer.
Johnson grass is used extensively, while raillo maize, Kafir corn, Jeru-
salem corn, and other sorghums yield repeated cuttings from August
until killed by frost. In Florida, rice and Para grass are used largely
for soiling. A considerable amount of forage, most of which is used
on the farm, is made from oats, rice, corn fodder, and other annual
crops. Corn fodder, made by stripping the leaves from the stalks as
soon as the grain becomes hardened, is used very largely, and consid-
erable amounts of it are sold in the country towns. The forage made
in this way, when well cured, is of excellent quality, but so much work
is necessary in gathering it that it can not be made profitably with
hired labor. A large part of what is saved is gathered by laborers on
shares, the share of the planter thus costing him nothing except the
injury to the grain crop, which may amount to as nuich as 18 per cent
of the grain when the fodder is stripped before the leaves have ceased
their growth.^

When oats are cut just after heading, they make hay of the finest
(juality, though if allowed to stand a few days too long but little of the
straw will be eaten. As the crop is one which can be grown during the
winter on ground from which corn or some other crop has been har-
vested, and is otf the ground in time for planting in the si)iiiig, it is
often the cheapest hay crop which can be grown.

nice is grown for hay near the coast, and has about the same hay
value as oats in the northern sections. Two successive hay crops are
often grown (m the same ground during the year, the yield of each crop
being about the same as that of oats, averaging about one and a half
tons i)er acre of each.

'Bulletin No, 30, Mississippi Agricnltunil Experiment Station,

25

As nearly the whole country is covered with timber very little wild
hay is cut exceptiug- iu the prairie region of Louisiana. There several
species of water-grasses are the common species of the wild lands, and
make a very fair hay.

THE MORE IMPORTANT HAY AND PASTURE PLANTS.

In the following- list only the more important of the native or culti-
vated hay and pasture plants are named. Many of these are rarely
seen in other sections of the country: a few are regarded as worthless
weeds in other localities; while others, common and valuable else-
where, have not proved suited to the soil and climate of the Gulf

States.

GRASSES.

Bermuda Grass (Cynodon dcictylon) (fig. 3). — An extensively creeping and spread-
ing jierenuial, stems slender; leaves numerous, spikes digitate, mucli like those of
crab-grass, but shorter and more slender. Bermuda grass is to the South what
Kentucky blue grass is to the North, and is the best hay and pasture grass for all
soils which are not too wet. It is the most common grass in all parts of the Gulf
States, and the vigor of its growth is a very good indication of the quality of the
soil on which it is found. Its leaves and stems are so tine, and its creeping stems lie
so close to the ground, that it makes an excellent lawn grass. Bermuda grass is
never injured liy protracted drought, and is unhurt by the most frequent grazings
or cuttings. Its rootstocks are so strong and wiry that it is the best of soil-binders,
and is used extensively for protecting levees and embankments. It is one of the
best grasses for grazing, and may well be used in the Gulf States as the foundation
for all permanent pastures. As a hay grass it is unexcelled. In favorable seasons it
will give two cuttings, and on good soils its yield is from 2 to 4 tons of hay per acre.

Bermuda grass is usually propagated by transplanting the roots. This may be
done at almost any time except during the coldest winter months, and tlie work is
not more expensive than is the seeding of ground in the ordinary manner. Shave
off sods an inch or two in thickness, cut them in pieces about an inch square, and
drop on the ground about two feet apart each way, stepping ou each one and crowd-
ing it into the soft ground as it is dropx»ed. If it is necessary to do the work when
the ground is too hard for this method, one man can make small holes with one
stroke of the hoe, while another drops tlie sods and covers them with his foot. When
the ground is in good condition, and th(> sods convenient, one man can plant an acre
in a day.

If seed is used in i)ropagating Bermuda grass the ground must be very carefully
prepared, being harrowed as tine as possible. The seed should be sown in March, at
the rate of about 6 pounds per acre and covered with a roller, though if sown just
before a rain no other covering will be needed. As the seeds arc small they must
not be covered deeply or they fail to germinate. Being expensive and unreliable,
seed is seldom used.

If the land is to be used for pasture only, the easiest means of securing a sod is to
run shallow furrows from 2 to 4 feet apart into which sods are dropped every few
feet and tramped into the soft soil. This method does very well for pastures, but
leaves the ground too rough for mowing. So easily may Bermuda grass be prop-
agated that good stands can be secured by scattering a dozen or more sods to the
acre and then cultivating the land in corn or cotton two or three years, after which
the grass will have become so well distributed that the field will need only to be
plowed and harrowed once in three to five years. The yield is greatly increased,
and the grass responds very quickly to an application of fertilizer, esjiecially of
stable uianure,

26

When once estalilishecl, it is somewhat difficult to eradicate, and this is occasionally
an objection to its general cultivation. The best method of destroying it is to plow
the ground immediately after the hay is cut, leaving it as rough as possible. Plow
again in November and sow to oats, and when that crop is harvested plow again
and sdw thickly with cowpeas, which will smother the few plants which may have
survived the oats and will leave the land in hue condition for any future croj).
'l\ui for ton, Bermuda grass has a feeding value fully equal to that of the best
timothy, and many horsemen prefer it to any other hay.

Broom-sedges. — The Broom-
sedges are among the character-
istic grasses of the Gulf States,
no less than forty species and
varieties being found there. All
have the same general character,
yielding a great amount of graz-
ing and hay of fair quality if cut
early, but becoming dry, hard,
and woody with the development
of the flowering stems, and al-
most worthless in the late au-
tumn. Some species are among
the most common of the large
grasses in the dry pine barrens,
while others grow only in the
damp savannahs, or act as sand
binders on the island sand dunes.
Under continued pasturing they
give way to other grasses, and
only two or three make their
apjiearance again in fields which
have been once cviltivated. All
are perennials, but are killed by
the first plowing.

l>ui Blue-stem {Audropogon
provincialiH) (fig. 5.). — Usually in
clumps, from large, coarse root-
stocks; stems 3 to (5 feet in height,
with several branches, more or
less purple in color; leaves long
and abundant, smooth or hairy;
spikes 2 to 1, digitate at the sum-
mit of the branches; spikelets
sparsely covered with rusty or
yellowish hairs.
This is the most valuable species in the group and is used more largely for hay
than any other. If cut when the flowering stems are not more than half grown it
makes excellent hay, but, unfortunately, it reaches that stage at a tinu) when most
planters an; crowded with work in the cotton fields, and hence is usually cut too
late to make forage of the best quality. It has a large cluster of tender root-leaves
which cure on tlie i)lant and remain there during the winter, forming an important
addition to the winter forage. While there arc other gra.sses which are better worth
cultivating, the spontaneous growth of this is valuable.

l'>K()()K-GiiAs.s (Audropogon glomeratm). — Most abundant <>n uuirshes :ind low
ground; steins large and coarse, 2 to 6 feet iiigli, brandling much toward the sum-
mit; leaves very long, rather wide, smooth, and glaucous, or hairy; spikes usually
densely crowded afc the summit of the .stem,

I'lO. 5. — Big Jiliie-stem (Andropogon provincialis) .

27

This is qnite common and alinndant on damp soils, and its long and abundant
leaves give it considerable value lor grazing, but its stems are too coarse and woody

for bay.

Bkoom-sedge {Androi)ogonviroinici(s).— Stems strictly erect from an almost woody
base, flattened below and loosely brancbed above; lower leaves about 1 foot long,
upper leaves sborter, smooth or hairy; panicle long and loose; spikes usually in
pairs and partially inclosed by the sheaths; spikelets covered with white or yellow-
ish hairs, and with awns nearly four times their length.

One of the most common species in old flelds and on dry soils, being usually the
iirst to make its appearance in old fields and often causing great annoyance in
meadows. When young and tender it is grazed to some extent, but soon becomes
tough and worthless. It is one of the most troublesome weeds of lawns and
meadows, and has so little value for pastures that its growth should never be
encouraged.

Bunch-Grass {Andropo(jon /en«-).— Stems very slender, with many widely spread-
ing branches; leaves numerous, narrow, short, and smooth; spikes single, 1^ to 3
inches long, slender; spikelets slightly hairy, half as long as the bent and twisted
awn. The most slender and earliest flowering species in the group.

Very common in open, dry pine barrens, but the numerous stems are so wiry and
the leaves so slender that it is not eaten well when other grasses are available.

Johnson Grass {Jnclropogon lialepense) (fig. 4).— Perennial from long, creeping
rootstocks; stems single or in clumps, erect-branching, coarse, 3 to 6 feet; leaves
numerous, long and broad, panicle open and spreading; seeds large and numerous.
Much like a small sorghum in general appearance.

This grass has been in cultivation in this country since about 1830, and is now
quite generally distributed through the Gulf States. It grows best on the rich and
heavy lime soils of the black prairie region and along the creek bottoms of the yel-
low-loam region, and is rarely seen in the pine-woods region near the coast. In
localities where it grows well it is at the same time one of the most valuable hay
grasses and the most troublesome and pestiferous weed. As a i)asture grass it has
but little value, as it begins its growth late iu the season and the tops are killed by
the first heavy frost in autumn. Its large and fleshy rootstocks are near the surface,
and are so injured by trampling that the grass soon almost wholly disappears from
the fields, though there is always enough left to restock the land when it is again
brought under the plow. Its greatest value is as a hay grass, and for that purpose
it can not be excelled. On land which is suited to its growth it will give at least
three cuttings annually, and make a total yield of from three to five tons per acre.
The hay is coarse and not attractive in appearance, but stock of all kinds eat it
greedily, seeming to prefer it to any other hay. Liverymen who have used it state
that it is the best hay they can find, but it is rarely fed in stables where there is a
ready sale for the manure, for the seeds spread the grass wherever the manure may
be used. But if the hay is mt, as it should be, before the heads appear, the manure
from it can do no harm.

The objections to the cultivation of Johnson grass are the rapidity with which it
spreads to fields where it is not wanted, and the great difliculty in eradicating it
from fields where it has become established. It will soon almost disappear when
fields are pastured, but the roots remain alive and will again take possession of the
field as soon as it is plowed. Instances are known where fifteen aud even twenty
years of continuous pasturing have failed to produce any appreciable eft'ect on the
vitality of the roots. When there are only occasional small patches of it in a field
they can be destroyed by hoeing and covering with salt to the depth of half an inch,
but when it covers any considerable portion of a field the only practicable method
of killing it is by weekly hoeings continued from early spring until late summer.
On sandy soils it can be readily killed in this manner, but on heavy clay or black
lands the work is more difficult, and will require a longer time. In any case, the
field should be watched constantly for plants which are almost sure to make their

28

appearance from seeds wasbed in from adjoining fields or dropped l»y birds, rattle,
or passing teams. It is so difficult to eradicate that it is rarely advisable to sow it
on clean land, but if it is already established on the land it is often better to encour-
age it than to fight it, as a heavy crop of good hay is more profitable than is an
ordinary crop of either corn or cotton.

Little Blue-stem {Andropogon scoparius) (fig. 6). — Stems usually in clumps from
strong roots, 2 to 4 feet high, flattened at the base, with numerous long branches,
usually tinged with red or purple; lower leaves long and numerous, upper leaves

short, smooth, or hairy; spikes on
long and slender peduncles, single,
1 to 2 inches long, with 5 to 10
joints.

Very common in dry fields and
easily recognized by its purplish color
and its habit of growing in bunches.
Next to the Big Blue-stem this is the
most abundant and valuable of the
group, and furnishes a large part of
the natural pasturage. It has a less
abundant supply of leaves than the
former, and the sterns become hard
and woody sooner, so that it is less
valuable for hay.

.Seaside Bkoom-sedge {Andropogon
marittmus). — Stems slender, coming
from a crown which is often a foot or
more below the surface of the sand,
1 to 2 feet tall, not branched; leaves
3 to 6 inches long, very numerous,
and abruptly reflexed, sheaths over-
lapping; spikes single, or sometimes
in pairs, 1 to 1^ inche.* long, partly
inclosed by the sheath of the sub-
tending leaf.

Found only on the sandy coast lands
and islands, where it is a valuable
species. As its roots are buried deep
in the sand, it acts as an excellent
sand binder, suffers but little from
dry weather, and can not be pulled up
by cattle. Stock appear to be very
fond of it, as it i.s usually eaten down closely before other broom-sedges or other
grasses are touched.

Bur Grasses {Cenchrns). —A^nu\u\\s, with spreading or decumbent and much-
branched stems, 1 to 3 feet high; spikes siugh', with from 5 to 25 spiny burs.

There are several species of these grasses which are common on the sandy lands
of the South, especially near the coast. While young the leaves are tender and are
grazed closely, but after the seeds with their spine-like coverings are develojied they
are avoided. Sand bur (C. fribttloidca) is the most connnou and a troublesome weedy
sjiecies, while the cockspur (C. echinatua) is the largest and is often cut for hay.

Crowfoot Grass (liactgloctdniKm <rg>iptinm).— Annual; stems several and branch-
ing, erect or spreading, 1 to 2 feet high; leaves numerous, long, smooth; si)ikes 2
to i"), 1 to 2 inches long, digitate.

A common grass in cultivated groun<ls from central Alabama and (ieorgia south-
ward, coming ui> as a volunteer crop alter oats, melons, and other early field crops have

riG. 6. — Little Blue-stem (Andropogon scoparius).

29

been harvested. It is visimlly more or less mixed with crab-grass, Mexican clover,
and beggar-weed, and is highly valued as a hay plant. It comes nj) so late in the
■season that it is rarely troublesome as a weed. Most feeders prefer it to crab-
grass, as it cures more easily. It appears to be more abundant iu Georgia than else-
where, and in many sections of that State nearly all the hay saved for home use is
from this grass, grown in cornfields. Crowfoot hay is of good quality, though the
yield is seldom more than one ton per acre when the grass is grown alone; it is often
double that amount when mixed with Mexican clover or beggar-weed.

Feather-grass {LeptocMoa mncronata). — Annnal ; stems clustered, erect, branched
from near the base, 2 to 3 feet; leaves rather numerous, long, flat, somewhat rough-
ened; panicles large and widely spreading, branchesvery slender and wiry; spikclet
small. Common in rich, cultivated ground, and quite showy, but the leaves are so
rough and the stems so hard and woody that stock refuse it when grazing, and it has
almost no value. Usually regarded as a weed.

Goose-grass {Elensine indica). —Ammal; at first prostrate, but finally becoming
erect ; stems much flattened, smooth, 1 to 2 feet high ; leaves numerous, long, smooth ;
spikes 3 to 6, digitate, 1 to 2 or 3 inches long.

A late species, which grows in cultivated ground in all parts of the South and is
everywhere regarded as a troublesome weed. When sufficiently abundant to be cut
for hay it makes a good crop, and as it makes its best growth late in the season it
adds considerably to the fall grazing.

Japanese 'Wheat-^ra.ss {Brachypodium jajwnicum) . — A short-lived perennial; stems
several, spreading or upright, 2 to 3 feet lall; leaves numerous, long, nearly smooth,
one-half to threc-l'ourths of an inch wide at the base; spikes 6 to 10 inches long,
rather diffuse ; spikelets half an inch in length, with awns twice as long ; whole plant
usually more or less tinged with purple.

A winter-growing plant, first introduced into California from New Zealand, Avhich
does well under the same treatment as that required for Rescue grass, being at its
best in March and April. It is valuable as a part of .a mixture for newly prepared
pasture lands. It has succeeded well in trial plots at all the Southern experiment
stations, but has been less successful under ordinary field conditions.

Kentucky Blue grass {Poa pralenns). — This grass is not the uniform success in
the Gulf States which it is farther north, though in some places it is of considerable
value. On low ground where the soil is dark colored and contains an abundance of
lime and on seepy hillsides it sometimes gives good late fall and winter grazing,
but it is useless to sow it on dry clay hills, and it nowhere makes the smooth lawns
and broad meadows which it docs in more northern States.

Lizard-tail Grass (Rackclochloaf/ranularis). — Annual; stems usually single, erect,
much branched, 2 to 4 feet; leaves few at the base, very abundant on the stems,
rather long and wide, rough; spikelets terminating the branches, 1 to 2 inches long,
slender; seeds abundant.

An introduced sjiecies which is found occasionally in cultivated places, though
rarely abundant. As it produces an unusual amount of seed, it makes a very rich
hay, though the lower part of the stem is rather hard and dry. Regarded as valu-
able where it grows spontaneously, but not deemed worth cultivating.

Millet {(Jha-iochloa italica). — When a crop of hay is wanted from land which
has been occupied by some early crop, some variety of millet can often be used to
advantage. It is a grass which requires rich land, and is exhausting to the soil;
hence should not be followed by cotton or corn, though it may often be used to pre-
cede clover or the seeding of a field for permanent pasture. If cut early, before the
seeds begin to harden, it makes excellent hay, but if the stems are allowed to
mature they become so hard and woody that they are not eaten, and the seeds, if fed
in any considerable quantity, are often injurious to horses and mules. The crop
sometimes fails on account of a drought soon after sowing, but if rains follow, so as
to germinate the seed and give the plants a fair start, they sufter little from later
droughts. There are several varieties, difl'ering principally in size, the form known

30

as rSerman millet beiiij; the largest, i^rowing from 3 to 5 feet high, and makinji the
best yield on heavj' .soils; the common millet, growing from 2i to 4 feet high, being
the best variety for light soils; and Hungarian millet being the smallest and most
(|nickly maturing sort of the three. Seed may be sown at almost anj' time during
the summer, even as late as the first of August, at the rate of from 35 to 50 pounds per
acre, and the early maturing sorts will be ready for cutting in about forty days
from sowing.

Nimble Will ( Mnhleiiheyf/ia d'ljTu^u). — Perennial; stems numerous, nmch branched,
sjjreading and ascending, very slender and wiry, 1 to 2 feet; leaves numerous, short,

narrow, slightly roughened; panicle
very slender, 3 to 6 inches; branches
few, erect; rather densely flowered.

Very common in dry, shaded places,
esjjecially along fence rows, on the
borders of woods, and abr)ut dwellinjrs.
The stems are so tough and wiry that
the grass is difficult to mow, but it
often forms a considerable addition to
the winter grazing. A very good pas-
ture grass, but hardly worth culti-
vating.

Orchard Grass {DartyUs f/lomcrata)
(fig. 7). — I'erennial; stems in large
clumps, erect, simple, 2 to 3 feet high ;
leaves very numerous, flat and broad,
slightly roughened, often 18 inches in
length.

This is one of the most widely grown
of the cultivated grasses, and in the
Gulf States is one of the best for win-
ter pastures, as it makes a good growth
on wet and heavy clay soils with ordi-
nary field treatment. It commences
its growth with the first warm days of
February, and if not pastured is ready
to cut for hay in April, and will tlien
alTord excellent grazing until checked
by the summer drought. With the first
autumn fains it starts a new growth
of leaves, making rich fall ]>asturage,
and remaining fresh and green through-
out the winter. The hay made from it
is of excellent quality, though its habit of growing in large clum))s is against its
use as a hay grass; but it bears grazing well and recovers (juickly when cropped
down. It does well when mixed with redtop, or alsiko clover, and succeeds better
than almost any other grass in woodland pastures. Sandy soils arc not suited to its
growth, and it can not be recommended for light and thin lands. Seed sliould
be sown in August, or very early in the spring, at tlie rate of 30 to 10 pounds per
acre.

Panic Grasses. — The g(!nus I'anicnm contains more species than any other in the
Gulf Statis, no less than 91, besides numerous varieties, having been found there,
many of them being peculiar to that region. They grow in all situations, from
swamps to ilry hilltojis. Some of the species are Inuinl only on wild lands, w liere
they furnish more than half the grazing, while others rarely occur i'xct])t on lands
which li.ive betin in <ulti vation. and where they often make heavy yields of hay,
which costs nothing but the harvesting. Although so abundant, there are few

Fia. 7.— Orchard grass (Dactylia glomerata).

31

species whicli are really wortli cultivating. They are tlift natural grasses of tbe
wild lands, and few of tlieni flourish under the changed conditions brought about
by cultivation. The following are among the more important 8})ecic8.

Autumn Panic {Panicum autumnaJe). — Perennial; stems numerous, often in clumps
of considerable size, spreading, 6 to 12 inches; leaves very numerous, short; pan-
icle large and diffuse, about as long as the stem; branches very slender.

It grows on thin and dry upland soil, where it often forms a large part of the late
summer and fall grazing. The var. pnhifloritm is the more common form in central
Alabama and Georgia, and stock
graze it freely, but it is not worth
cultivating.

Barxyaud Grass {I'anicum crm-
galli). — Annual; stems single or in
clumps, erect, sparingly branched,
3 to 6 feet high; leaves very long
and abundant; panicles heavy and
compact; si)ikelets awned or awn-
less.

This requires a rich and some-
what moist soil, its name, "barn-
yard" grass, indicating the locality
which it prefers. It is a coarse and
succulent grass, which is not easily
cured into hay, but it is (juite valu-
able for soiling and for the silo, as
it yields heavily and produces an
unusual amount of seed. In some
sections of Mississippi and Florida
it makes a good part of the volun-
teer growth which is used for hay.
Dr. Phares, of Mississippi, says that
"hundreds of acres are annually
mowed, and farmer's who have
tested it thoroughly for many years
prefer it to the best corn fodder."
Several varieties of this, under the
name of "Japanese barnyard mil-
let," have been recently introduced
and promise to be of great value. No
reports of the value of these millets
have been published from the Gulf
States, but they have made such
good yields in the north that they
should be carefully tested there.

Bitter Pank; (Panicmn nmarum). — Perennial, from long, creeping, and Ijranching
rootstocks; stems erect or decumbent, not branched, 2 to 5 feet tall; leaves long
and numerous; panicle erect, slender, often partly inclosed by the sheath of the
upper leaf; whole plant very smooth and blue-glaucous.

This grass is confined to sandy beaches, and is one of the more prominent sorts on
the coastal islands, where it furnishes grazing for hundreds of cattle. Its long and
tough rootstocks and its ability to grow in the sandiest soils make it a valuable
sand-bind«r.

Colorado Grass, or Texas Millet {Panicum texanum) (lig. 8). — Annual; stems
few, branching or erect, often rooting at the base, 2 to 4 feet; leaves very numerous,
large, nearly smooth; panicle 4 to 8 inches long, slender, branches closely flowered.

This has Aery much the same habit of growth as crab-grass, but is larger and
coarser. It prefers low, damp soils, and in suitable locations will make two or

Fig. 8. — Colorado jirass, or Texas millet (I'atiiciim,
iexanuin).

32

three cuttings in a season, the hay heing of very good quality. Like crab-grass, it
reseeds the ground freely, and will often make a heavy volunteer crop after cultivated
crops have been harvested, though it never becomes a troublesome weed. It is grown
quite largely in some parts of Louisiana, and is regarded there as being the best of
the annual grasses for a volunteer hay crop.

Ckab-grass (ranicum sanguinaJc).— Annual; though often perennial by its spread-
ing stems, which root at each joint near the base; stems many and branching,
spreading 2 to 4 feet long; leaves very numerous; 3 to 5 spikes, 3 to 5 inches long,

digitate.

The most common grass in cultivated ground, making its principal growth late in
summer after other crops have been harvested or laid by, and so furnishing a large
amount of hay with no expense, excepting that of harvesting. Although not often
on the market, crab-grass furnishes more forage for home. use in the Gulf States
than any other grass. When oats, melons, and other early crops have been har-
vested it Avill soon cover the ground, and by October will often make a yield of 2
tons per acre, while in the pine woods and coast region it will make nearly or quite
as much on land from which corn has been harvested in August. Near the coast it
is usually more or less mixed with Mexican clover, and on soils which are well
fertilized the mixture will often give as much as 3 tons per acre of excellent hay.
The objection to the hay is that, if allowed to become overripe before cutting, the
seed shatters oft' badly and the stems become woody and tough. It is also rather
difficult to cure;, and must be allowed to dry several weeks before it can be baled

with safety.

Guinea Grass {Panicum maa;tm?tm}.— Perennial by stout, creeping rootstocks;
stems numerous, often in large clumps, coarse, 10 to 12 feet; leaves very numerous,
large; panicle loose and spreading.

Probably an African species, but now well established in many sections of Florida
and grown occasionally at other places near the Gulf coast, where it is valued highly
for both hay and pasture. In regions suited to it, it grows very rapidly, and needs
to be cut about once a month to prevent the stems from becoming too large and
coarse. It makes good grazing and gives a constant and heavy yield for soiling.
Seed ripens only in the extreme South and it is usually propagated by means of pieces
of the rootstocks, which grow readily when transplanted. The stems are killed to
the ground by the first heavy frost, and if the ground freezes slightly the roots are
killed also. It has sometimes been confounded with Johnson grass, but is much less
hardy and is much coarser and less valuable as a hay plant. Also, it is less trouble-
some as a weed.

Maiden Cank {Panicum digUarioides).—?e>vennm\, from widely spreading root-
stocks; stems erect, simple, smooth, 3 to 5 feet; leaves very abundant, broad, ten-
der; panicle long, its branches long and slender.

Common in ditches and along the borders of marshes, where it aftbrds a large
amount of good grazing. It will not endure drought and is of little value for hay.
Its strong creeping rootstocks make it desirable as a soil binder.

MrxRo Grass (/'aniV«Hi fl//ros<o/rfc8).— Perennial; stems clustered, branched, erect,
8nuK)th, 1 to 2 feet; leaves very numerous, often a foot or more in length; panicles
pyramidal, terminating each of the branches, much like those of re<ltop.

This is a wet-ground species whicli is very common on the borders of ponds or
marshes and along the banks of streams, where it frequently makes a dense growth
covering considerable areas. It makes good though rather coarse hay, of which two
cuttings can bo made in a season, but as it grows best on land too wet and uneven
for mowing, its chief vnliie is as a pasture grass. For late fall grazing it is one of
the best of the family, and is well worth sowing on the wet places in pastures, but
is worthless for dry soils.

Mitton-Cank (Panicum dirhofominii). — \\iremu:i\\ stems clustered, spreading,
much l)ranched, very slender, 10 to L", inches; leaves numerous, short, and narrow;

33

panicles loose and spreading, rather large, and on long peduncles in the spring, bnt
small and almost sessile later in the season.

One of the most abundant native species, usually o<furring on lands which have
not been in cultivation. It is exceedingly variable in its habit of growth, assuming
very dilferent forms at different seasons, but making an almost continuous growth
and forming the best part of the pastures on the pine-woods soils. During the win-
ter its growth is confined to a tuft of very broad leaves at the surl'ace of the grouml,
but in early spring stems are formed which continue to branch aud produce seed
until late iu the fall. Sheep are especially fond of this grass, and many flocks live
upon it almost wholly during the winter. Although so valuable in the native pas-
tures, it is soon crowded out by other species when the land is pastured too closely
or is brought into cultivation.

Paua Grass {Fanicum molle).- Perennial; stems decumbent aud often 10 to 20 feet
in length, with a few feet at the extreme end becoming erect; leaves very abundant,
long aud broad; panicle loose and spreading, 9 to 12 inches long.

This has been introduced from the West Indies or South America, and, where the cli-
mate is not too cold in winter, will produce an immense amount of forage. It does not
mature seed iu this country, but the roots live through the winter, the new growth
being ready to cut by June 1, and it will furnish good cuttings every six weeks from
that time until the end of the season, although it should not be cut after October 1,
in order that it may have time to produce a crop of leaves to serve as a winter ])ro-
tection to the roots. It is of considerable value near tlie coast, but is too tender for
regions subject to severe frosts.

Smooth Crab-grass (I'anioim lineare). — Perennial by creeping stems; stems
prostrate, rooting at the joints; leaves very numerous, short, hairy, light colored;
spikes digitate like those of crab-grass, but shorter and more slender.

Common on cultivated ground, especially on sandy soils, where it frequently forms
a thick mat similar to carpet-grass. It remains green and continues to grow during
the winter, and is grazed to some extent, but cau not be regarded as valuable.
When cattle are grazed on fields containing a large proportion of this grass they
often become "sanded" from the accumulation of sand in the stomach, and losses
from this cause are not uncommon.

Sprouting Panic {Panicum proliftruvi). — Annual ; stems many and diffusely
branched, succulent, smooth, 2 to 4 feet long; leaves very numerous, large and
smooth; panicles many, diffusely branched.

This grows naturally on rich, moist soil by roadsides and ditches, but is often
abundant in cultivated fields with crab-grass. It is rather difficult to cure for hay,
but cattle and mules are very fond of its sweet and juicy stems, aud as it makes its
best growth late in the season after many of the early grasses have been killed by
drought it is of considerable value, although hardly worth special cultivation.

Poverty Grasses (Aristida). — The species iu this group are easily recognized by
the 3-parted beard at the upper end of each spikelet. They are widely distributed,
growing in every variety of soil, but are not usually regarded as valuable any-
where. They are among the first grasses to take possession of worn-out and
abandoned fields, roadsides, and other barren spots, aud their jjresence is usually
regarded as an indication of a thin aud unproductive soil. A few of the species are
common on good soils, and in the dry pine barrens they form no small part of the
grazing for spring and early summer, but are never grazed after the culms begin to
grow. A. stricta is one of the numerous perennial "wire grasses" of the pine
woods, growing in clumps 2 to 3 feet tall. This giv^es more grazing than any other
of the group, but is a pest to sheep, as the sharp, bearded "seeds" catch in the
wool and often work their way into the skin. A. paliistris is a common swamp spe-
cies, growing 3 to 4 feet tall, but is coarse and harsh, even when young. A. gradVis
is a small and slender species, seldom more than a foot in height, which is occasion-
ally found in cultivated lands and is one of the first to appear when cultivation
5729— No. 15 3

34

has ceased. As a whole, the Jnsfi(i«s are more nearly worthless in the South than
any other group of grasses, though none of them become troublesome weeds.

Purple-Top {AntJuvnanlia rufu). — Perennial, from astout rootstock; stems usually
single, 2 to 3 feet tall; root leaves abundant, long, narrow and smooth, stem leaves
few and short; panicle compact, 3 to 5 inches long; spikelets very hairy and usually
bright purple.

Common on the pine barrens of the coast region, although nowhere making a dense
growth. It is eaten well, even when quite mature, and it is an important element in
the natural jiasture. There is another species {A. villosa) which is found on damp

soils. The root leaves are short
and few, lying flat on the ground,
so that it has little grazing value.
Redtop {Afirostis alha). — This
grass is found in nearly all parts
of the United States and presents
many forms by some regarded as
distinct species. Its greatest
value in the Gulf States is as a
pasture plant for damp soils. For
this purpose the form having
long, underground rootstocks
{Ayrostis utoJonifera) is the best,
as it is least injured by tramp-
ling. It does best on a soil which
is rich and moist, but will grow
fairly well on a dry clay soil, al-
though not on dry sand. It bears
continued overflows without in-
jury, even when covered by water
two or three weeks, and on most
soils is more persistent and pro-
ductive than Kentucky blue
grass. It is one of the best grasses
for winter and early spring graz-
ing, and should be used on the
damp places in every i^astnre. It
makes a moderate yield of fair
hay and isespecially A'aluable for
mixing with orchard grass, alsike
clover, and other moisture-loving
sorts. It makes but little show
the lirst season after seeding, but
becomes stronger and more dense
with age, and holds its plai'C well
against other grasses and weeds.
In seeding, one bushel \mv acre
should be used, and to that it is
well to add half a bushel of perennial rye-grass, which will occupy the ground the
first year, but will disappear as the redtop becomes stronger.

Rescue Grass { livomun iniioloides) (lig. 9). — Annual or perennial; stems single or
ill small tufts, creet, not l)ranched, 2 to 4 feet high; leaves numerous, long, tender;
panicle large, loose, and spreading, spikelets drooping.

This is apparently a native of the southwestern part of the United States, and was .
one of the first of the native grasses to bo brought into cultivntion. It is known as
Australian oats, Australian brome, Arctic grass, and Schrader's brome. Although
usually ail ;iniiiial, repeated cuttings or persistent grazing will prevent seed-bearing,
and so enable the plant to live several years. It grows best on a rich, loamy soil, and

J} J s^ 0/

Fig. 9. — Rescue grass {Broinus unioloides).

35

in most localities should bo treated as an annual, as it is soon crowded out by other
grasses on land which has not recently been plowed. It seeds freely, and yields vol-
unteer crops as far north as the District of Columbia. When sown on suitable soil
in August or September it begins its growth with the first autumn rains, and in a
favorable season will give good grazing in December, while in a dry ajd unfavor-
able season it may be worth but little before February or March. When at its best
it will often give two good cuttings for hay. Should it be desired to grow it con-
tinuously on the same held, the land ought to be plowed after the seed has matured,
and during the summer it may be used to grow a crop of cowpcas or of crab-grass,
which should be cut in September to permit the rescue grass to secure an early
growth. Seed should be sown in August or September at the rate of from 30 to 40
pounds per acre.

Rough Bent (Agrofitin xcahra). — ^An annual with slender, smooth, clustered stems
and open panicles, 1 to 2 feet long, with widely spreading, capillary branches.
Found everywhere, but more common on rather dry and hard clay soil. It makes
its growth early in the spring, and so adds some forage to the early pastures, but it
is not eaten after it comes into bloom in May, and soon disappears.

Rye-grasses {LoHiim itaUcion and L. perennc). — Short-lived perennials; stems
clustered, often decumbent at the base, becoming erect, 2 to 3 feet tall; leaves very
numerous, dark green, rich and tender, 4 to 8 inches long; spikes long and slender,
often drooping.

These are among the oldest cultivated grasses, and are probably grown more
widely than any others iu Europe. They have been used largely in the Northern
States, where they are often satisfactory, but in the South they have not done well
except in a few especially favorable locations. They succeed best on a rich, moist,
sandy soil containing a fair amount of lime, and on such vSoils are fairly permanent,
but on dry, thin soils and heavy clays they soon disappear. They will cover the
ground sooner and make a better sward in a few weeks after planting than will most
other grasses, and so are valuable where quick results are wanted and for covering
the ground while other and more permanent sorts like redtop or orchard grass are
becoming established. When sown alone on rich soils their growth is so rank that
the ground is soon covered ^jith a dense mat of long leaves, which make the best of
grazing or hay, but if allowed to become too dense will die and decay after heavy
rains. While excellent for mixing with other grassi^s for both pastures and meadows,
they can not be recommended for sowing alone. The more common varieties are the
Italian, Pacey's, and the perennial rye-grasses. The perennial or English rye-grass
is the longer lived and so the best for permanent pastures. The Italian rye-grass
makes a ranker growth and covers the ground more qnicklj". Seed may be sown in
either fall or spring, and from 2 to 3 bushels per acre are required when sown alone
or 1 bushel when sown with other grasses.

Salt-grass (Z>ts<ic/i?(s spicata). — Perennial, from long, creeping rootstocks; stems
slender, erect, wiry, branching; leaves short, smooth; spikes of two forms, stami-
nate and pistillate, the first rather slender, while the latter are shorter and thicker.

Growing on salt marshes everywhere, and of little value except as a sand or soil
binder. When not too old and tough it is eaten by horses and mules, where other
grasses are not to be had, but it makes poor grazing and is worthless for hay.

Side-oats Grama (Bouteloiia cnrtipendula) (fig. 10). — Perennial; stems single or
few together, simple, erect, 2 to 3 feet tall ; leaves 6 to 12 inches long, rough ; spikes
forming a long raceme and usually refiexed, about half an inch long, purple.

This is the southeastern representative of the large group of grama or mesquite
grasses which are so numerous in the pastures of the Southwest. Like them, it
grows on dry soil, is rarely injured by drought, and is so deeply rooted that it is not
injured by grazing. It is found from Mississippi to Georgia, though rarely abundant,
and its growth should be encouraged. The seeds are easily gathered and grow
readily on lawns already set with other grasses. There is another BouteJona found
in Florida, but neither species is so abundant as to be of much importance.

&

36

Small Cane (Arundinaria iccta). — Perennial; stems woody, branching above, from
a few inches to many feet in height; leaves numerous, lanceolate, somewhat rough
and hairy, remaining green until the second season. Seeds as large as grains of
barley, in panicles resembling those of rescue grass; maturing in February and
Manh. There is also a second species, A. viacroNperma, which sometimes reaches a
height of 40 feet. These canes are indigenous on alluvial lauds and along streams
throughout the whole Gulf region, reaching their greatest perfection on the low
lands near the Mississippi River and in Florida, where they often form extensive
"canebrakes" whose growth is so dense as to be almost impenetrable. It is too
woody to be cut for hay, but where it grows in sufficient abundance it makes valu-
able winter grazing, and thousands
of cattle are wintered without any
other feed . The seeds are produced
on slender canes from 1 to 3 feet tall,
but only at long intervals, and the
whole plant dies soon after the seed
is matured. Usually all the plants
in a localitj", which may be from a
few rods to many acres in extent,
produce seed the same season. Cat-
tle fatten rai>i<lly on the large,
starchy seeds, and the dying i)lants
are replaced by a new growth the
following season. Attempts to cul-
tivate the cane, either by seeding or
by ti'ansplanting roots, have not
been very successful, and as it grows
only on the richest soil its area is
rapidly decreasing with the opening
of new fields.

Smooth Brome {Bromns iner-
mis). — Perennial, from extensively
creeping rootstocks. Stems un-
branched, erect, 2 to 3 feet high;
leaves abundant, long, smooth ; pan-
icles spreading when in flower, but
becoming close, with the branches
erect as it approaches nuiturity.

Although this grass has been pop-
ular in Furopean pastures for more
than a hundred years it does not ap-
pear to have attracted attention in
the United States until about lifteeu
years ago, when it was highly rec-
ommended by the California cxperi-
mentstation. It wassion tested by
many of the stations in other parts
of the country, and nearly all of the earlier reports publishcil were strongly in its
favor. At all of the stations in the Gulf States it succeeded iincly , and was thought
to be of great value lor winter ])asture8. It grows well in cool w(!ather and bears
drought. Cattle gra/.e it with relish. In tlio South it is more valuable for pastiiie
than for hay, and does better on dry than on wet soils. Although its growth ou^the
trial plots was all that could be desired, its growth in the field has often been disap-
]»ointiiig, and it is not gaining in geiu'.ral favor excepting in the Northwest. After
eight years of exp<'rience witli this grass on a great variety of soils it api)ears to bo
of doubtful value in the Gulf States. It has here some value for winter grazing on
dry and loose soils, but its place can be better filled with other species.

0/
Fic. lo.-

-Side-oats Grama {Bouteloua curtipcndvla).

37

Southern Canary-grass {I'halaris raroliniuna) . — Perennial; stems sinj^le or in
small clumps, slender, erect, not branched, 3 to 4 feet; leaves abundant, 10 to 15
inches long; spikes erect, 3 to 6 inches long, much like those of timothy. This grass
has so much the appearance of timothy that it is often called "southern timothy,"
though it is closely related to the true canary-grass. It is ■widely distributed on
damn soils along the coast from Louisiana to Florida, and is valued highly for winter
and early spring grazing. Attempts to cultivate it for hay liave not resulted suc-
cessfully, as it fails to cover the ground well. Its chief value is as a pasture grass,
and for that purpose it is well worth using as a part of the mixture for wet lands.

Smut Grass (Sporobohis indicus). — Perennial, often in largo clumps ; stems slender,
erect, seldom branching, soon be-
coming woody and tough, 2 to 3 feet
tiill; leaves abundant, long, and
smooth ; spike long and slender, usu-
ally blackened by a smut {Uelmin-
thosporium ravcnellH).

Very common everywhere in door
yards and other places where the
soil is rich and has been well tram-
pled. It is worthless as a hay grass,
but as the leaves remain green
through the winter, it is of consid-
erable value for grazing, especially
lor horses.

St. Augustine Grass {Ste)iotaj>h-
7'iini dimidiatum). — Perennial by its
widely creeping, flattened stems,
which are much branched, and often
reach a length of several feet; fruit-
ing branches erect, 4 to 8 inches
high ; leaves numerous, short, rather
broad and olituse.

Common, sandy soils near the
coast. A valuable sand-binder. It
is frequently u ed as a lawn grass
and makes a fair turf, but its color
is too light to make it as attractive
as Bermuda, and the stems and
leaves ari' coarser.

Tall Fescue (Festuca elaiior). —
Perennial; stems usually in small
clumps, rather stout, smooth, erect,
2 to 3 feet ; leaves abundant, long
and slender, dark green; panicle 6
to 9 inches long, loose and spreading.

One of the popular introduced species, sometimes known as tall meadow fescue,
Huglish blue grass, Randall grass, and by other names. It succeeds best on rather
moist, rich alluvial or clay soils such as are commonly found along creek bottoms. It
makes good hay, and as it remains fresh and green longer than most others, it is quite
valuable for permanent winter pastures. When grown for hay it should always be
mixed with other grasses on account of its habit of forming large clumps when grown
alone. Redtop and alsike clover will grow well on the same kinds of soil, and the
three make an excellent mixture for either meadows or permanent pastures.

Tall Oat-grass {.irrhcnatlierum elalius) (lig. 11).— Perennial; stems 2 to 4 feet tall,
simple; leaves not numerous; panicle similar to that of the cultivated oat, but
smaller, and the spikeleta only about one-third of an inch in length.

Fig. 11. — Tall Oat-grass (Arrkenatherum clatius).

38

Introduced from Europe, where it is one of the most valuable species for both hay
and pasture. It is so highly prized in Europe that it has heeu plauted repeatedly
in all parts of the United States, and with widely varying results. In most cases
it has been more successful in the Xorth than in the South. I'rofessor Scribuer
recommends it for Tennessee, and it has also been highly recommended for northern
Alabama, (leorgia, and Xorth Carolina, but that seems to be about the southern limit
of prolitable cultivation. Farthc^r south it is so weakened by the long summers that
after a few years it is crowded out by other species. It grows best on a light and
rather dry loam ; it makes its best growth early in the season, and is easily cured for
hay. It does not cover the ground well wbeu sown alone, and for cither h.iy or
pasture should be mixed with orchard grass, perennial rye, red clover, or some other
plant which will occupy the ground more fully.

Texas Blue grass (I'oa a ra dm if era). — Perennial from underground rootstocks;
stems scattered, erect, rather stout, seldom branched, smooth, 18 to 24 inches ; leaves
abundant, long, thick, smooth; panicle loose; spikelets covered with white woolly
hairs.

This is emphatically a winter-growing si)ecies. In favorable location it begins its
growth in October, and from November to May furnishes an abundance of luxuriant
pasturage. It matures its seed in April and from the first of June until October
makes but little growth. It is difficult to propagate by seed, but can be increased
rapidly by means of the suckers which are produced in great numbers. A rich, loamy
soil seems best suited to its growth, but in many places where the soil has ai)peaied
to be favorable its growth has been disaiipointing. Its only value is for winter jias-
tures. It has given good results at the experiment stations of Missis8ii)pi, Alabama,
Georgia, and Florida, but owing to the difficulty of propagation it has been very slow
in coming into general cultivation.

Tecsinte {Eudilwna luxurians) (fig. 12). — Annual; stems very numerous, sometimes
60 to 70 from a single seed, 6 to 12 feet tall. The stalks, leaves, and spindle resenilile
Indian corn.

This is the plant of which Prof. Asa Gray said, "Possibly affording an opportunity
for one to make millions of blades of glass grow where none of imy account grew
before." At the experiment stations of Louisiana, ilississii)pi, (ieorgia, and Florida
it has given the heaviest yields of any of the forage crops grown, Georgia rei)orting
38,000 pounds of green forage per acre, Mississippi 44,000, and Louisiana the enor-
moMsamonnt of over 50 tons. It needs a long season of hot weather, a lichsoil, and
abundant moisture in order to succeed well, and it is useless to plant it where all
these conditions can iu)t be had. It is a remarkably vigorous grower, reaching 10
to 12 feet in height, with an unusually aliundant supply of leaves and tender stems,
which continiu- to grow until i<illed by frosts. If cut when it reaches 4 or ."> feet in
height it makes excellent fodder, and will produce a second cro]> fully as large as
till' first. \i' lelt to grow until September or October it furnishes excellent material
for tlie silo, in greater amount ])cr acre than either corn or sorghum, and there are
few i)lants which are its equal for soiling purposes. Its leaves are similar to those
of sorghum, but much longer, and the stalks contain from 8 to 10 per cent of sugar.
Its value for feeding and soiling is a))parent from the fact that the entire crop of 50
tons jier acre grown at the Louisiana station was sold to local dairymen at the rate
of $2 per ton while standing in the field. Its season of growth is so long that it
.seldom matures seed north of latitude '.W\ but it has ri]iened well at Ihe Louisiana
and I'lorida stations. The seed, I to 5 jtounds per acre, should bo ])lanted in hills 4
to 5 feet ajiart each way, aliout cotton-jdanting time, and the crop cultivated like
corn. The greater distance should bo gi\-cn on the richer soils.

Timothy ( I'lilrnm jiratoiar). — K'arely successful in .iiiy part of the (Jnlf States. It
makes one good (■iitting in the sjjring after it is sown, but the long summer weakens
the l)ulb-like roots so that but few jdants survive until tiie next year.

Toothache-grass {Campidosua aromal'n-nn). — Perennial from stout rootstocks;
stems siugh- or clustered, erect, uiibranched; leaves long, narrow, smooth; sjukes

39

X

'■ '■•■../fk'V'W.I,-'.' '

A

y

Fiu. 12.— Teosinte (Euchl(rna hiTvrimu) : a. one of the 'oars' inclose«i by the "husk"; 6, the
same with a portion of the husk n'uiov tMl. slunviuu' the grains; c and d, views of the grain.

40

tonninal and at rijrbt angles to the stem, becoming curved when old ; spikelets with
awns one-lbnrth of an inch long.

( 'oinniou on wot pine barrens, and one of the most conspicnons of the native grasses.
Tlie rootstoeks, wlien mature, have a pungent, aromatic taste, and chewing tlicni is
said to be a remedy for toothache. The whole plant is more or less aromatic, and is
rarely eaten by stock

Velvet-grass ( //o/(»« lanatiis). — Perennial; otten in large clumps; stems erect,
not branched, 1 to 2 feet high; leaves very numerous, long, and wide; panicle 2 to
3 inches long, erect, compact, often tinged with ])urple; wliole plant clothed with
soft white hairs, which give it a very striking a])i)carancc.

This is one of the European grasses which has boen higlily recommended and
extensively planted, but has rarely been successful iu the Gulf States. It sometimes
remains (airly permanent on thin soils wliere it is not crowded by other sorts, but is
never eaten well by stock. On richer and nioister soil it is often seriously atfected
by one of the same rusts which attacks oats. It should be sown only when in mix-
tures and (m thin soils.

Water-grasses { PaspaJums).— The Paspalums rank next to the panic grasses in
imiiortancc and in number of species in the native pastures, 3G being found in the
South. Like the panic grasses, very few are of much value for hay. The group fur-
nishes several of the best past ure grasses, however, and some of these are well worth
cultivating. Most of the species ])refer a moist soil, and though they are often found
on soils wliich arc (luite sandy, they are rare on dry clay hills. Most of them are
perennial, and several bear cold so well that they are of considerable importance in
winter pastures.

Caui'KT-(;rass (Paspalnm covipreifum). — Perennial; stems erect or decumbent,
extensively creeping and rooting at the Joints, upright stems (5 to 18 inches; leaves
very numerous, short, obtuse, smooth; peduncles long and slender, terminated by 2
to 4 very slender spikes 1 to 2 inches long, similar to those of crab-grass.

Tliis is ai)parently indigenous along the coast, and is slowly spreading northward,
being now somewhat conunou iu central Mississippi and Alabama. It is undoubt-
edly the best pasture grass we have tor sandy soils, and it will bear more hard tramp-
ling and close grazing than will any other species. On heavy soils it is often crowded
out by Hirmuda and other s])eeies, but on light soils of oven moderate fertility it
will soon cover the ground, to the exclusion of all others. It is a grass which soon
comes iu when sandy soils are jtiisturcd closely aud will ch(d<e out the broom-sedge
and other less desirable sorts. It is easily destroyed by plowing and never becomes
a weed. It rarely grows large ont)ugh to be cut for hay, though on the prairies of
southwestern Louisiana, where it is known as "prCit fiazon^' it reaches a height of
2 feet or more and covers a large part of the native meadows. The seed is rarely
tbnnd in the market, but the jtlant is easily ])roi>agated by mowing when the seed
is ripe, and scattering the hay over the liebl where the grass is wanted. Even if but
few plants should ai)pear the tirst year, the seeds will soon be spread by stock so as
to cover the entire lield. It bears heavy frost without injury, and so affords consid-
erable grazing during the entire winter. It is often used as a lawn grass on soils too
light and sandy for Bermuda, and is excellent for that purpose, though its rather
light color uuikes it less attractive than a grass having a richer green.

lloNKV Dkw (I'aspdiiitn plicatiihim). — i'erennial, though often growing as an
annual ; stems, many from a single root, nnnh branched, spreailing or erect, smooth,
2 to 3 feet; leaves nruuerous, rather long. n«'arly smooth; spikes 1 to 10, spreading,
2 to 3 inches l<mg. hairy on the axils; spikelets usually in I rows; stems aud leaves
usually purple in color.

Common on moist and heavy .soils, though often found in dry jilaces. In habit of
growth it is nuich like crab-grass, couiiug uj) in cnltivati-d tields after other crops
havi' bieu laid by, aud making a good yield of hay, which is sweet and well liked by
stock, but is slow in curing. This is one of the prominent 8i)ecies in the native
meadows of the Louisiana i)rairies, and is one ol the more abundant sorts ea.stward

41

to Florida, often covering entire fields from which oats, melons, or other early crops
have been harvested.

KNOT-(iRAS.S (Pasjuihim disticlium). — Perennial; stems creeping extensively and
rooting at the joints, with ascending or erect branches 6 to 12 inches tall; leaves
very numerous, short, small; spikes usually 2, divergent, 1 to 2 inches long.

A grass having much the same habit of growth as carpet-grass and Bermuda, but
confined to very moist soils on the borders of ponds or streams and similar locations.
It is very common in ditch l)ottonis, where it is sometimes quite troublesome, as it
catches the sediment from the running water and soon fills the ditch. Both stems

and leaves are ipiite succulent
and tender, and aie grazed close-
ly during the late summer, but
as it is killed down by moderate
frosts it is of but little value for
winter pastures.

Largk Water-grass (Pas-
imluw dUatatum) (fig. 13). — Per-
ennial; stems in clumps, erect,
seldom branched, smooth, 3 to 4
feet; leaves very numerous near
the ground, fewer on the stems,
a foot or more in length ; spikes
4 to 7, erect or spreading, 2 to 4
inches long, with a small cluster
of white hairs on the axils;
spikelets pubescent.

A rather coarse grass, which
grows best on rich and rather
damp soils. It spreads slowly
from the roots, but seeds freely,
and when once started will soon
cover a field where the soil is
suited to its growth. The stems
are rather coarse for hay unless
cut early, but it produces a very
large amount of long and broad
leaves, which remain fresh and
green during the entire winter.
It withstands the longest
droughts without injury, bears
grazing well, starts its new
growth early in the spring, and
is one of the best pasture grasses.
Its habit of growing in clumps
is an objection to its use for
hay, but it is an excellent vari-
ety for mixing with redtop, as it grows best on the same character of soil and largely
increases the yield.

Wild Barley ( Horde mn nodosum). — Annual ; stems single or in small clumps, gen-
iculate at the base and becoming erect, smooth, 9 to 12 inches high ; leaves abundant,
short and narrow; spikes slender, 2 to 3 inches long; spikelets bearded, soon falling
apart.

This is often abundant in early spring on hard clay soils which are heavily tramped.

It gives a little good grazing in March, but is not eaten after the heads begin to

show, and by May the stems are dead and dry. Little more than a worthless weed.

"Wild Rye {Ehjmus). — There are three species of wild rye which are rather com-

FlG. 13. — Large Water-grasa ( ' as^iahim dilatatum).

42

inon throughout the South. All grow in stools similar to those of wheat or oats,
with erect stems 3 to 5 feet high; leaves and spikes like those of rye.

Eather coarse grasses, common along fence rows and creek bottoms, where the soil
is rich and somewhat damp. The Canadian wild rye (E. canadensis) is the tallest
and coarsest of the three, and has but little value. Dennett-grass {E: striatus) i.s
more valuable, but not as good ;is the Terrell-grass ( E. rirf/inicits). The latter grows
in woodland pastures and furnishes a large amount of grazing through the winter
and early spring.

Woodland Bunch-grass (Eraf/rostis glomeraia). — Perennial; often in large
clumps; stems slender, erect, smootli, 1 to 2 feet; leaves numerous, slendtsr, rather
short; panicle sometimes a foot in length, slender and couipact, jjroducing a
very large amount of seed.

This is an excellent summer grass for moist woodland pastures, often growing on
the edges of marshes and other damp locations where l)ut few good grasses are
found. Cattle appear to be very fond of it, and it is doubtless worth planting in
pastures. This is almost the only species of EragrosUs which is of value found in
the Gulf Sates.

MISCELLANEOUS FORAGE CROPS.

Alfalfa {Medicaf/o saliva) (fig. 2). — One of tlie most common cultivated forage
plants of the West, and rapidly coming into favor in the South. It is a very deep-
rooted plant which bears drought well, but the roots can not endure stagnant water
or sour soil, so that it must always be grown on lands which have good drainage. It
is a very prolific hay plant, as it will give from two to four, or more, cuttings annu-
ally, each cutting making from 1 to 2 tons of hay. It should be cut as soon as it
comes into bloom, or before the stems become hard and woody. The hay should
be handled ;is little as possible, as the leaves drop ofi:' very easily, and when badly
handled the hay is little more than coarse stems. Well-made hay has about the
same value as that from red clover. As a pasture plant it is good for horses, mules,
and sheep, but not safe for cattle, as it occasionally causes bloating. It is one of
the best plants for a summer hog pasture, and also affords considerable winter graz-
ing. The greatest difficulty in growing it is in securing a good stand. The land on
which it is to be sown shoiild be put in the best possible condition, and seeded in
September at the rate of 15 to 20 jiounds per acre, though good results are often
secured with 10 pounds of seed. The ground should be rolled after sowing. On
most lands crab-grass and weeds will come up thickly with the nlfiilfa, but will be
killed by the first heavj- frosts, and by spring the alfalfa will be strong enough to
smother oth(?r growths.

Seeding may also be done in the spring, but if the field is not watched many of
tht! alfalfa plants will be smothered by grass and weeds. If weeds threaten to
injure the stand, the field should be mowed, setting the mower as high as possible
to avoid cutting the young alfalfa, after which it will usually be strong enough to
l)rotect itself. When a stand is once secured it is permanent. Professor Newnum,
director of the South Carolina experiment station, states that he has known a field
of alf.ilfa to give good crops fourteen years in succession in Alabama, and twenty-
five years in Georgia. It springs up quickly after each cutting, and Dr. Taliaferro,
of r)r;ing(! County, I'la., states that he has cut five crops within twelve months from
seeding, while Dr. Stubbs, of tin- Louisiana station, reports fourteen cuttnigs in
eighteen months from seeding. Farther north it is less prolific, but is everywhere
one of the best soiling crops.

Alsike Clover (TrifoUum Inihriihnn). — Perennial; intermediate between the white
ami red cioxers in hiibit and appearance.

Alsike is the best of the clovers for wet grounds, but is of no value on dry soils.
r)n thf^ holders of marshes, seepy hillsides, and jtlaces too wet for other cloveis this
makes its l>est growth. It seldom grows sulliciently large to make a good yield of
hay, but is an excellent pasture plant, and should always be sown with redtop on

43

the damp places in a permanent pasture. Sow 6 pounds of seed per acre in Septem-
ber or March.

Artichoke (//e/irt»i^ftH8 /h?)c/-os«s).— Perennial, by underground tul)er8; stems erect,
5 to 8 feet ; leaves and dowers much like those of the ordinary suntiower, but smaller.
One of th<! best and most profitable crops for winter hog pastures. The tubers may
be cut in small pieces for planting, as is done with Irish potatoes, and about the
same amount of "se»'d" per acre is required. They are planted in the same manner and
require the same cultivation as the Irish potato. The tubers make very little growth
before October, and do not become thoroughly matured before December. The yield
is larger than that of any otlier root crop, being ordinarily from 400 to 600 bushels
per acre, while double those yields are secured under specially good conditions.

When the crop is fully matured a few
rows should be plowed out to secure
"seed" for spring planting, and this
should be buried like potatoes. When
the field is turned over to the hogs
enough of the tubers will be left in the
ground to restock the field, Init as the
hogs will leave the ground very rough
and uneven, and the plants will be so
irregular that they can not be culti-
vated, it is much better to plow the
entire field in the spring and replant in
resrular rows. When it is desired to
clear a field in which artichokes have
been grown it can be accomplished by a
single plowing in June or July, after
the new growth has exhausted the old
tubers and before the new crop has
formed.

Birdfoot Clover. Yellow Trefoil
{Lotus coniiciilalus). — Perennial; stems
branching, slender, nearly prostrate, 3 to
12 inches; leaves very numerous, small;
flowers yellow, in small heads.

This grows well on hard and sterile
soil, roots deeply, bears drought well,
and is of considerable value as a pasture
plant. It begins its growth very early
in the spring, but is little esteemed after
the beginning of summer. It is well worth sowing in dry pastures.

Buffalo Clover (Trifol'nim refiexiim).—A\mna\ or biennial; stems in large clumps,
erect, downy, il to 12 inches; leaflets roundish or obcordate; flowers nearly white;
calyx reflexed when mature.

Very similar to red clover in appearance, excepting in size and color of flowers.
It is widely distributed, being more common along fence rows and ditch banks than
elsewhere, and is nowhere abundant. It is a good grazing and hay plant, but
grows so poorly in open fields that it is not profitable for cnltivation.

Bur-clover {M(dica<io macnlata and M. denUculatu (Wy^. 14). — Annual; stems
branching, decumbent, 1 to 3 feet; leaves very numerous, large, tri-foliate, each
leaflet with a dark brown spot in the middle; flowers small, yellow, in small heads
on long peduncles; seeds in a small bur.

Extensively introduced, and a valnahlc. pasture plant for early grazing. Eaten
well by cattle and sheep, and occasionally by horses and mules; of little value for
hay. Seed should be sown in October, on rich loamy soil, and the plants will make
good grazing by February or March. The seed matures in April and May, after

Fig. 1-1.— Biir-( Idvoi- ( J/('(?icoj7o inaculata).

44

which the ground may be plowed and cultivated in other crops during the summer.
The clover seed will remain in the ground, and if the Held is cleared of its sununer
crop by October no reseeding will be required. An excellent plant to mix with
Bermuda on a calf pasture.

Bush Mallow {Sida eZ/io«ii).— Perennial; stems slender, erect, 2 to 3 ft^et;
branches long and straight; leaves very narrow; flowers yellow, 1 inch wide.

Kather conunon in dry, ojjen woods, and eaten well by cattle, probably for its
mucilaginous seeds, even late in the season
after the stems become dry and hard. Not
worth cultivating.

Butterfly Pea (Clitoria mariana). — Per-
ennial; stems erect or twining, 2 to 4 feet;
leaflets 3, ovate-obhmg; flowers pale blue,
2 inches in diameter; legumes 11 to 2 inches
long.

Common on dry, woodland soils, and
yields nutritious grazing, but is too scat-
tering to be of much value.

Canada Field Pea (I'isum arvense) (fig.
15). — An annual, much like the common
garden pea. It has been planted at many
places in the Gulf States, but has never
proved valuable. When sown in the fall
its growth is not equal to that of the
vetches, while if sown in spring it suflers
severely from mildew.

Carolina Clover ( TrifoUiim carolinia-
MMm). — Perennial; stems tufted, prostrate,
6 to 10 inches; leaflets small, obcordate;
flowers white, tinged with purple; calyx
reflexed when mature, (.'ommon on dry
clay soils, making its growth early in the
spring and soon disappearing; valuable
only because it gives a little early grazing on soils too poor for most otlier jdants.

Cassava (Manihot aijn) (fig. 16). — Perennial; stems erect; branching. 4 to 6 feet;
leaves large, palniately compound; roots 3 to 5 feet long, 1 to 2 inches in diameter,
and very starchy. A native of the tropics, but recently introduced in Louisiana
iuid Florida. On fertile soil it is said to yield as much as 10 tons of roots per acre,
and the roots are worth fully as much as potatoes for feeding. The plant is ])ropa-
gated by planting short cuttings of the stems, and requires only ordinary cultiva-
tion. As the roots decay (piickly after being taken out of the ground, they should
be dug only as wanted for use.

Chinese Yam {I Hoxcorca batatas).— A perennial twining vine, often reaching a
length of 20 feet; leaves heart-shai)ed ; flowers small, white, in rather dense clusters.

The roots are (|uite large, club-shaped, often leaching 3 feet in length with a
diameter of 3 inches at the lower (Mid. They are starchy and mucilaginous, and
make a food fully as rich as sweet potatoes, but their peculiar shape makes them
hard to dig. The ])laiit is projiagated i)y means of small tubers which are produced
in immense numbers in the axils of the leaves, and on a rich loamy soil tht; yield of
these tubers is often fifty or more bushels per acre. These tubers remain on the
surface of the ground uninjured during ordinary winters, and so are a valuable
winter food for hogs.

Chufa {Ci/pcrHH (.nctdentus). — A perennial sedge that jiroduces a large yield of small
tubers wiiich are a valuable food for hogs. It grows best on a sandy soil which has
been well fertilized, where it makes a yi<ld of from 7;") t<> 10(» liushels i)er acre. The
tubers are ]ilanted in early spring, 12 to 1.^ inches ajiart in rows 3 to 4 feet apart, and

Fig. 15.— Canada field i»ea (IHsum arvente).

45

the only cultivation needed is to keep down grass and weeds. The tubers mature in
October and November, aud are easily rooted out by the hogs. Of little value on
heavj' soils.

Cowpea {Vigna catjavr/). — Well-known annual of unknown origin; cultivated
throughout the South for more than one hundred years. kSonie varieties mature
within sixty days from planting, while others will continue to grow until killed by
frost. In planting it is better to select varieties which will mature a good x)art
of the seed before time for frost. The heavier yield is secured by planting in drills
and cultivating, but Avhen seed is cheap and labor scarce a less expensive crop can
be made by sowing broadcast. The better farmers always plant peas between the
rows of corn at the last plowing, and the crop isone which can be grown with profit
during any two months of warm weather when the land would otherwise be idle.
Crimson Clover {Trifoliiimincarnatum). — Anniial; stems erect, somewhat branch-
ing, 1 to 2 feet ; leaves nu-
merous, oboA^ate, rather
large; tlowers bright crim-
son, in long spikes.

Introduced from Europe ; a
valuable plant in nearly all
of the country east of the Al-
legheny Mountains from New
Jersey to Georgia, but has
rarely succeeded well in any
of the Gulf States. Seed
should be sown in September
or October at the rate of 20
pounds per acre, and where
it grows well it can be grazed
during the winter or cut for
hay in the spring before the
seed begins to mature. The
plant has not proved gener-
ally valuable west of the Al-
leghanies, and in the South
has rarely made a crop of any
value, as the plants usually
die during early winter. The
matured plant is dangerous
for feed as the stiff hairs on
the calyx form balls in the
stomachs of animals and
often cause death.
Perennial; much like winter vetch in

Fig. 16. — Cassava (Manihot aipi).

Flat Pea {Latliyrua sylvestris wagneri).
appearance.

This was introduced from Europe a few years ago, and extravagant claims were
made for its luxuriant growth on the hardest and most sterile soils. It has been
tested repeatedly at each of the Southern experiment statious and by hundreds of
farmers, but has been uniformly disappointing. Its growth the first year from seed
is rarely as much as 12 inehes, and it requires the best of care to make it survive the
summer. Older plants are more hardy and vigorous, but fail to hold the ground
against native grasses and weeds, and soon disappear.

Florida Beggar-weed {Desmodium tortuosum). — Annual; stems erect, branching,
4 to 7 feet; leatiets 3, rhombic or elliptical, tomentose beneath, rough above; flowers
small; legumes 1 to 1^ inches long, 3 to 6 jointed, rough-hairy.

Very common on sandy soils in Florida, and extending into South Georgia and
Alabama; often planted and becoming naturalized along the coast farther west.

46

This is tlie best leguminous forage plaut which has been found for light sandy soils,
and it makes a vigorous growth on soils too light for most other crops. Its primi-
pal use is as a grazing plaut, stock of all kinds grazing it freely and fattening rap-
idly where tlie phmt is abundant. As it does not begin its gmwth until late in tlit^
spring and is killed by moderate frosts, it is valuable only during the summer and
fall. It often grows as a volunteer with crab-grass and crowfoot on cultivated
lands, and is then cut for hay. When used for hay, it should be cut when only 2 or
3 feet high, as the stems become hard and woody as the plant grows older. Besides
its use as a hay and grazing ])lant it is a valuable fertilizing crop, and the seed is
often scattered in corn tields at their lust cultivation. When sown for hay, from six
to eight pounds of seed are used per acre, and after land has once been seeded it
seldom needs reseeding, though the plant never becomes a troublesome weed.

Several other species of Desmoditim are found, usually in dry woodlands, through-
out the entire region. Among the more common of these are D. acuminatum, vudi-
florum, paucijiorum, and riridifiorum. All are eaten
fairly well and add considerably to the woodland
pastures, but are rarely abundant.

Groundnut (Jpios tuherosa). — Perennial ; stems
climbing; leaflets .5 to 7, ovate or ovate-lanceolate;
brownish-purple flowers in axillary racemes.
Common in wooded swamps from Mississippi to
Florida and northward. Eaten by all kinds of
stock, hogs being very fond of the small tubers
on the roots.

Hog Peanut (Amphicarpwa monoica). — Peren-
nial; climbing; leaflets 3; flowers of two kinds —
those on the stems in drooping racemes and
sterile, those at the base fertile, fruiting under-
ground. Occasional in rich, damp woods from
Mississippi to Florida and northward. The vines
are eaten by cattle, and hogs are fond of the
underground nuts.

Horse Beau {Faha vulgaris). — Annual; stems
erect, 2 to 3 feet; leaflets 3, oval, smooth and
glaucous; flowers in small axillary clusters; pods
2 to 4 inches long.

Highly prized in Europe, but not successful
here, as the plants are usually destroyed by blight
at about the time they begin to bloom.

Jack Bean (Canavalia ensiformis). — Annual;
stems erect, bushy, rather stout; leaflets 3, large;
flowers few, in dense axillary racemes; pods 3
to () in a cluster, a foot or more in length ; seeds
large, white.

This came into notice about 1890, and since then has been planted in many places.
The growth of the plaut is all that could Ije asked, and the yield of bc^ans is from
30 to .")() l)ush(;ls per acre; but, unfortnnately, iieitLer the beans nor tli(^ jdants are
eaten well. At the Mississippi station the beans were fed in many ways — dry,
soaked, ground into meal, and cooked — but neither horses, mules, cattle, nor hogs
would eat them.

Japan Clover (Lespedeza striata) (fig. 17). — Annual; stem branching, slender and
wiry, 3 to 24 inches; leaves very nunnTous, small; flowers small, in axillary clusters.
This may be classed among the most valuable leguminous hay and pasture ]>lants of
the (iulf .States. It is a native of .lajian, wliicli was introduc<>(l into tliis country
about 1830, and is now thoroughly naturalized over the whole country south of the
Ohio Kiver. It grows on all soils, liut does best on good loams containing a fair

Fig. 17.— Japan clover (Lespedeza
striata).

47

amoujit of lime. It will also grow on lianl, dry clay, and even wLere the soil is
quite sandy. On thin soils its growth is very flat and spreading, while on better
soil it becomes erect, and is often 2 feet in height. It endures heat and drought
without injury, and stock eat it greedily. It never causes bloating, but occasionally
has a slight salivating effect on horses, though that appears to occur in only a few-
localities. It starts late in the spring, but from May until after heavy frost it gives
the best of grazing, and should be in every pasture. Although mostly used for
grazing it is a valuable hay plant, making a good yield of from 11 to 2 tons per acre.
When wanted for hay, it should be sown in early spring, at the rate of one-half
bushel per acre, or it mayT)e sown with oats in the fall, as it makes but little growth
before the oats are harvested. For pastures it is necessary only to scarify the sur-
face of the ground with a disk harrow, and it will often grow well without any

previous preparation of the soil. There
are a number of native species of lespedeza
which are quite common in dry, open lands
throughout the South, and although all
are grazed, they are not worth cultivating.
Kidney Bean (Phaseohts diccrsifo-
lius). — Annual; stems prostrate or trail-
ing, slender, 2 to 4 fe6t ; leaflets 3, oval or
2 to 3 lobed ; flowers purple, on long pe-
duncles ; pods long and slender.

Common on dry, sandy soil, affording
some summer and fall grazing, but hardly
worth cultivating.

Three other species of the same genus
are quite widely distributed throughout
the South, but are not sufficiently abun-
dant to be of much importance.

Mexican Clover {liichardsonia sca-
hra). — Annual; stems branching, diffuse
2 to 4 feet; leaves numerous, oval, rough;
flowers nearly white, in small heads.

This is not a true clover, but takes its
name from its habit of growth, which is
much like that of red clover. It is a na-
tive of Mexico and Central America, but
has become thoroughly naturalized along
the Gulf coast, and is found occasionally
as far north as central Mississippi and
Georgia. A sandy soil seems essential to
its vigorous growth in cultivated fields
after other crops have been laid by.
Where this and crab-grass grow together on well-fertilized soils the yield of hay is
often two tons per acre, and costs nothing but the cutting. Feeders are somewhat
divided as to its value, some claiming that it makes hay of fine quality, while others
declare it to be worthless. Chemical analysis of the hay indicates that it is nearly or
quite as rich a food as red clovei", and it is certain that many animals keep in good
condition through the winter with no other feed. It has but little value for grazing.
Milk Pea (Gnlactia (jJabella). — Annual ; stems prostrate, 2 to 3 feet long, very slen-
der ; leaflets 3, rather rigid, 1 inch long ; flowers large, reddish purple, 3 to 6 in a cluster.
Common on dry pine barrens and eaten well, but scarcely worth cultivating.
Eight or ten other species of Galactia are more or less abundant, usually in dry
woods.

All are eaten freely, but their growth is too thin and scattering to make them of
much value.

Fig. 18. — Peanut (Arachis hypogea).

48

Peanut (Arachis hypogea) (tig. 18). — Of some value for hay, and cultivated for
hog pastures iu all parts of the South. There are two very distinct types in culti-
vation, the "common" and the "Spanish." The former is the one which produces
the peanut of commerce. The plant grows as straggling as a potato, and the nuts
are produced on long peduncles and often (juite scattered. This is seldom used for
hay, though often grown for hogs. The Spanish variety is a smaller, more compact,
and erect plant, which produces an immense number of very small nuts clustered
closely at its base. This variety is growing in favor for hay, as the plant with its
closely adhering nuts is easily pulled up. The yield is from 1 to 2 tons per acre.

Fio. 19. — Soy Bean {Glycine hispida).

and as nearly half the weight is in the nuts, the hay is richer in protein than any
other in common use. Either variety makes tine fall pasturage for hogs, and as the
hogs do the harvesting, jteanuts furnish tin- chca])est food for the season.

Prickly Comfrey {Symphiilitm. dsjxrrimiim). — rerenuial; stem erect, coarse, 2 to 4
feet; leaves very large and abundant, rough.

A very rank-'growing jtlant which has been highly recommended for forage, espec-
ially for soiling. It is propagated by cuttings of the roots, which are planted about
1« inches apart in each direction and which continue to produce heavy crops of
leaves for several years. Cattle do not cat tlie leaves readily until they become

49

accnstomed to them, and there are other jilants which are more profitable in the
South.

Ramie {Boehmeria nivea). — Perennial; stem erect, coarse, 2 to 4 feet; leaves
numerons, large; flowers very small and inconspicuous, in axillary clusters.

Although this is ordinarily cultivated as a fiber plant, it is grazed well by cattle
and is an excellent crojt for soiling. On rich soil it will give from three to six cut-
tings of the stems from 2 to 4 feet in height, and if cut before becoming mature
they are so tender that the entire stalk is eaten. It is profitable only on rich soil,
and does much better near the coast than farther north, as it needs a long season
with abundant rains.

Red Clover {Trifolinm prateiise). — Red clover is becoming more popular each
year, and is now quite a common crop in the black prairie region and in other sec-
tions where the soils contain a fair amount of lime. It requires a soil which is rich
and in fairly good condition to insure a "catch " of the seed. On many soils where
it makes a good start and yields two or three cuttings it soon becomes overrun with
other plants and is choked out. It is the best of the family to occupy a good soil
two or three years, but is of little value on poor soils. Seed should be sown in
September at the rate of 10 to 12 pounds per acre, and it will then give a heavy
cutting the following May. It succeeds best in the South when sown with no
nurse cro]).

Sedges (Carues).— Very similar to the true grasses in general aj)pearance, but
with the stems 3-angled and the leaves 3-rauked, while among the true grasses the
stems are nearly round and the leaves are 2-ranked.

Usually on soils which are too wet and heavy for most of the true grasses, very
common in swamps and tide marshes; nearly all are grazed when yoang, but as they
approach maturity most species become so tough and tasteless that they are not
touched by stock. The hay made from them is of poor quality, and one of the
species is worth oultivating.

Soy Bean {Chjcine hispida) (fig. 19). — Annual; stem stout, erect, branching but
little, 2 to 4 feet; leaflets, 3; flowers in axillary clusters; pods short, 2 to 4 seeded;
whole plant rough-hairy.

One of the staple crops of Japan, which attracted little attention in this country
until about ten years ago, but is now becoming quite common. The crop is culti-
vated like corn, the seed being i)lanted in drills at the rate of half a bushel per acre.
The stems alone are too coarse to make good hay, but are covered with such a dense
growth of leaves and are so prolific in fruit that the hay is prized highly, especially
for milch cows and for fattening animals. The yield of green forage is very heavy
when grown on good soil, and the yield of beans is from 20 to 30 bushels per acre.
Those who have had most experience with this crop find that the best way to handle
it is to cut or pull the plants when the first pods begin to open, and thrash as soon
as dry enough. In this way the coarse stalks are so broken in pieces and mixed with
the leaves and immature fruit that nearly all will be eaten. It is doubtless the best
of the legumes for the silo, as it can be more easily handled for the cutter than can
plants like clover or cowpeas. There are a number of varieties, diftering mainly in
the time of ripening and the color of the seeds.

Spurred Butterfly Pea {( 'eniroaema virfiiniana). — Perennial; stems twining, 3 to 5
feet; leaflets, 3; flowers on short axillary peduncles, blue or purple, li inches long;
legumes, 4 to 6 inches long.

Common on dry soil in woods; eaten well, and might be worth planting in wood-
land ])asture8.

St. John's Bread; Carob Bean (Ceratonia fiiliqiia). — A tree which is grown
rather commonly in Florida, and occasionally farther west. It is valued for its
sweet, flesh j^ pods, which are very rich in sugar, and so are good feed for fattening
stock.

Sulla (Hedysarnm coronarium). — Perennial; stem erect, branched, 4 to 6 feet;
leaves very numerous, pinnate; flowers in large showy clusters.
5720— No. 15 4

50

A very (leep-rootiDg plaut wliicli grows best on a well-drained soil. It makes a
heavy yield in early spring, but is so tender that it can not be retouimended except
in Florida, as the plants are killed by frosts.

"When sown in the fall it makes an enormous growth during the winter, which is
slightly injured by very severe frosts without being killed. Scarcely hardy enough
for a winter crop, and yet not sui cessful as a summer one."'

Sweet Clover (Melilotus alba). — Biennial; stems erect, widely branched, 3 to 5
feet; leaves abundant, tri-foliate; leaflets elliptical; flowers white, in slender spikes.

Common where the soil is rich in lime. Even on the white, rotten lime-stone
hills in the black prairie region, where no other plants can grow, this makes a
good yield. Its growth is much like that of a coarse alfalfa, but it will grow well
on a much poorer soil and on one which is in poor mechanical condition i)rovided it
has an abundance of lime. It may be sown with Johnson grass, when it will make
one cutting before the grass has much growth, and the later cuttings are heavier
than when either plant is grown alone. It is an excellent pasture plant, beginning
its growth in early spring. Cattle not accustomed to it do not always eat it readily
at first, but if turned into the pastures before other vegetation furnishes much
grazing they soon acquire a taste for it. The roots are very large and deep, and as
they decay at the end of the second season they are fine fertilizers. Seed may be
sown in either October or February. Usually but one cutting of hay can be made
the first year, but the second season it will make three good cuttings. Although a
biennial, a few plants will produce seed the first year and a few will live three
years, so that land needs to be seeded but once to secure continuous occupancy by
melilotus.

Sw^eet Potato {Convolvulus edulis). — The ranker-growing and coarser varieties
of sweet potatoes are used largely for hog pastures, as the crop is one which can be
grown with very little expense, and the harvesting is done by the hogs. The yield
is often 200 bushels per acre, and the crop is one of the best and the cheapest that
can be grown on sandy soil. The vines are sometimes saved for hay, but are hard
to cure.

Velvet Bean (Mucnna uiilis). — Annual ; climbing stems sometimes 50 feet in length ;
leaflets 3, large; pods numerous, 2 to 3 inches long, each containing 3 or 4 large oval
beans.

A newly introduced plant which has not been extensively tested, but which has
been highly recommended by the experiment stations of Louisiana and Florida.

Vetches. — Six species of vetch are native to the Gulf States, two or three of
whi<h are very widely distributed, being quite common in open woods and along
creek banks. All make their growth in late winter and early spring, and often are
80 abundant as to make considerable early grazing. None of the native species are
Worth cultivating as a field crop, but when seed can be gathered without too much
labor it will pay to sow it on pastuie lands.

DwAKF Vetch (Lathyrua pusillus). — Annual; stem slender, nearly erect, 12 to IH
inches; leaves pinnate; peduncles long, 1- or 2-flowered; pods long, 12- to 15-seedeil.

Common along roadsides and on dry soils. Good earlj' grazing, but too dwarf ibr
profitable cultivation.

IlAinv ViCTCii {Ficia rillosa) (fig. 20). — Annual; stem straggling, much branched,
8 to 12 fret; leaves pinnate, very numerous, flowers ])urple, in erect ractnies.

The best of the winter-growing legumes on a rich loam soil, but usually a failure
on sandy lands. Seed should be sown in September or October at the rate of 1
bushel per acre. The growth is weak until .January, when it begins to grow vigor-
ously, and by March will usually make a mass of forage 2 feet deep. The seed
matures in May or June, and the crop should be cut for hay as soon as the first pods
ripen. The ground may then be plowed and cultivated for summer crops to be
gathered by October, when the vetch seed scattered by the mowing will germinate

Bui. Xo. 19, Louisiana experiment station.

51

and again cover the ground. The crop may be used either for grazing or for hay,
and the yield of either is largely increased if oats are sown on the same ground.

Spring Vetch or Tares (Vicia sativa). — Annual; stems trailing, pubescent, 1 to 2
feet; leaves variable in shape, from obovate to linear; flowers axillary, in pairs,
nearly sessile.

An introduced plant which is of considerable value for winter grazing and for
growing with winter oats, but less prolific than the hairy vetch.

Fig. 20.— Hairy Yetcli (Ticia villosa).

Winter Vetch (Laihymshirsutus). — Annual; stem climbing or straggling, branch-
ing, 2 to 4 feet; leaves 3 to 6 in cluster; pods short, 2 seeded.

Introduced and naturalized in many places. Seed sown in September or October
will germinate with the first autumn rains, though the plants make but little growth
before January or February, after which they grow rapidly and cover tlie ground
with a dense mass of forage by March or April. The plants bear graziug well, and
reseed the ground freely. They will not bear qnitc as nmch frost as will the hairy
vetch, but are eaten fully as well, and seem to be i)referred by horses, though not by
cattle. An excellent winter and spring pasture plant.

62

White Clover {Trifoluvi jv>j;eHs).— Uncertain and unreliable in its growth, some-
times covering the ground with a thick mat of vigorons plants, and then often dis-
appearing for several seasons. A good grazing plant for cattle, but thought by M
some to be injurious to horses and mules. ■

Yellow Lupine {Litpinus 7h/<;hs).— Annual ; stem erect, stout, 2 to 3 feet; leaves
numerous, palmately compound, large; flowers in large and showy terminal clusters.

This plant, unlike most other legumes, grows best on a soil containing but little
lime, and so is especially valuable for the soils aloug the coast and ior much of the
pine-woods region. It affords good grazing, and the hay is valued as fully equal to
that from red clover. The seed is high priced, and as from 75 to 100 pounds are
required per acre the plant is not yet common, but is well wi;rth planting experi-
mentally on soils poor in lime. In Europe it is used successfully for renovating
worn out sandy soils.

INDEX

Page.

Agrostis alba

xcabra

stulonifera

vulgaris

Alfalfa 19,20

Amphicarptva tmmoica

Andropogun argi/rceus

elllottH

gloiDcraUix

haU'pense

maritim us

proviucialis

xcdpaiiiis

tener

virginicug

Anthcenantia riifa

villosa

Apios fuberosa

Arachis hypogma

Arctic grass

A ristida dlchotoma

gracilis

oligantha -• - • ■

paluitris

purp^irascens

stricta

A rrhenatherum elatius

Artichoke

Arundinaria

macrosperma

tecta

Barley

wilfl

Baruyard grass 11-

Beani Carob

Horse

Jack

kidney

soy

velvet

wild

Beggar-weed 18,

Florida 13,17,

giant

Bermuda 12, 13, 11, 15, 16, 17, 19, 20, 25,

Bitterweed

Blue-grass, Canadian

English

Kentucky 14,24,

Texas

Blue-stem, big 11, 12,

little

Jiaehineria nivca

Bouteloua curtipendula

Urachy podium japonicum

Bronie, Auatraliau

Sclirader's

smooth

Bromus inermis

vnioloides

Brook-grass

Broom-sedge 12, 15, 26,

Elliott's

seaside

Bunch-grass

wood

Bur-grass

Bush-mallow

Cainpulosus aromaticus

Canary-grass

southern

34

35

34

11

42,50

46

11

11

12,26

22 27

'28

11,26

11, 2,S

12,27

12

34

34

46

47,48

34

12

33

12

11.33

12

33

37

43

11

36

36

18

41

13,31

49

46

46

47

49

50

13

22,29

18, 45

17

37,44

12

15

37

29,34

17,38

26,28

11,28

49

35

29

34

34

36

36

34

12,26

27,40

n,r2

28
12,27
42
28
43
38
37
37

Page.

OanavaUa ensiformis 46

Cane -' 11,12

small 36

Garex 49

Carpet-grass 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 1 6, 33, 40

Cassava 43

Cenchrus echinatus 28

tribuloides 28

Centrosema virginiana 49

Ceratonin silif/iia 49

Chcvtochloa italica 29

hvvigata 12

magna 13

Clitoris pet icea 13

Chufa 44

Clitoria mariana 43

Clover, alsike 14,16,17,30,34,37,42

birdfoot 43

Buffalo 43

bur 14, 15, 16, 43

Carolina 43

crimson 45

Japan 13, 16, 16

Mexican 15,17.18,22,29,32,47

red 20. 23, 38. 47, 49. 52

.sweet 16,17,23,50

white 52

Cockspur 28

Colorado gra.ss 11.31

Convolvulus ediili)' 50

Corn 18,24,28,29,38

chicken 18

Jerusalem 24

Kafir 24

Cotton 3,13,28,29

Cowpea 17, 18, 19, 21, 26. 35, 45, 49

Crab- grass. . - 15. 17, 18, 21, 22, 25, 29, 32, 33, 35, 42, 46

smooth 33

sprouting 11

Creek-sedge 13

Creeping beard-grass 12

Crowfoot - 17,18,28,46

Cynodon daciglon 25

Cyperiin esculentus 44

Dactylis gUnnerata 30

Dactylocienium cvgyptiuin 28

Dennett-grass 42

Desnuodium acuminatum, 46

nudiflorum 46

pauciflorum 46

tortuosimi 13, 45

viridiflorum 46

Dioscorea batatas 43

Distichlis spicata 13, .35

Eleusine indiea 29

Elymus canadensis 42

striatus 42

virginicus 12

Eragrostis glomerata 11,42

litida 11

Euchlcena luxuvians 38

Faba vulgaris 40

Feather-grass 29

Fe.-scue, tall 37

tall meadow 37

thin 15

Festuca elatior 37

Finger-grass, seaside 13

Foxtail, smooth 12

Fringe-h'afed pasi)alum 12

Galactea glabella 47

53

54

INDEX.

Page.

Gama 11, 12

Glycine hinjtida 49

Goose-grjiss 29

Grama, siUe-oats 35

Grouudniit 46

Guinea grass 32

Hackekiehloa grn inilaris .. 29

IlediinariimcoroiiHiium 49

Helenitiiii antuiiinale 12

HelianUiiis tubtrosux 43

Hi'lminthosjiuiium ravenellii 37

Uolcux lanaliis 40

Hoiicy-tlew 40

Hordeiiin iiodogtnn 41

JapanL'sc wlieat -grass 29

J olmson-grass 19, 20, 22, 23, 24, 27, 50

KilUnija pumila 13

Knot-grass 41

Lathy r lis hirsutus 51

pitsilliis 50

sylvestfii wagneri 45

Legumes 13,16,24,49

Lepcochloa mucronata 29

Legpedeza 12, 13, 14, 15

striata 46

Lizard-tail grass 29

Lotux coriiiciilntus 43

Love-grass, many-flowered 11

ahinlng 11

Lupine, yellow 52

Lujnnus luteits 52

jVIaidencaiie 32

Manihot aipi 44

Medicaya denticvlata 43

maculata 43

sativa 19. 42

Melilotux alba 50

Melons 17,32

Millet 29

common 30

( Jerman 22, 30

giant 13

Hungarian 30

Japanese barnyard 31

Texas \ 31

w ild-rice 13

Miio iiiai/.e 24

Mucinia tUilin 50

Muhlenbenjia capillaris 12

dijuta 30

Muhlenberg's hair grass 12

Munro-grass 11,13,32

Mutton cane 11,12,17,32

Needle-grass 12

Niml.lewill 30

Oat -grass, tall 37

Oats 17.18,20,21,24,20,32,42,47

Australian 34

turf 18

winter 51

OpUsiiienu.'i geta riux 12

( )rcliard-giass 16, 30, 34, 35, 38

Panic-grass 12,.30

autumn 31

bitter 13,31

brandling 12

creeping 13

fall... 15

llat-stenuucd 11, 12

narrow-leafed 11

sprouting 3.")

Pamcum ayrontoidcs 1 1 , 32

aiiKinini 13, 31

a II ci'pg 11

anyiixtijidium 11

aiitii III iinle 31

criisynlli II. 31

dicliiitnin inn 1 1, 32

diqita riiiidcs 32

llniaie 33

maiiiiium 32

inolle 33

proliferaiii 11 3H

jniliijUirum 31

ri'jii'iiK 13

aanyuiiiale 32

texamiiii 11,31

Page.

Panicum rirgatum 11

Para-gra.ss 24, 3:-t

Paspahiiii ciliati/idiitm 12

coiiiji resell III 10, 40

dilatatiiiii 10,40

dixtlchiim 41

fringe-leafed 12

loKve 12

Iditifcnon 10

2)licatiilinn 40

setaci'ii III 10

slender 10,12

smooth 12

Pea, butterfly 43

Canadalield 43

flat 45

milk 47

spurred -bntterfly 49

Peanut 47. 48

hog 46

"Petit gazon" 40

Plialaris caroliniana 37

Plianeohis divirei/olnis 47

Plili'uin jiratente 38

I'ifiit in arri'iiite 44

}'oa aracli ni/era 38

pratensis 29

Potatoes 17, 43, 44. 48

sweet 44. 50

Poverty -grass 33

southern 12

swamp 12

weed 15

Prairie-grass 12

Priekley comfrey 48

Purple-top 34

Ramie 49

Randall-grass 37

Redtop 11, 14, 15, 16, 17, 30, 34, 35, 37, 42

fall 11

Rescue-grass 29, 34

Rice 24

Richard sonia hcahra 47

Rough bent 35

Rush-grass 12

Rye..: 18,42

Canadian wihl 42

wild 41

Rye-grass 35

English 35

Italian 35

Pa<'ey 's 35

perennial 34, 35, 38

St. Augustine grass 13, :i7

St. John's bread 49

Salt-grass 13, 35

Sand-bur 28

Sedge grass 12, 13

Sedges 49

Hida elUottii 43

Silver-beard H

Smut grass 37

Sorghum 18, 24, 38

Sorghiiin halepcnsc 22,27

Siiartin a utricta inariti ma 13

Spnrobidus as/ier 12

indiciis 37

jiinciug 12

Stenotaphruin dimidiatinn 13, 37

Sulla. 49

Sw itch-grass 11.12,13

Syniphytii in aupcrrimum 48

Tares 51

Teosinte 24.38.:W

Terrell-grasa 12. 14

Timothy 37, :tK

southern 37

Toothache grass 38

Trefoil, yellow 43

Trifuliuin Carolinian u in 43

hybridinn 42

incarnatti in 45

pratense 49

reflcTum 43

repinn 52

Triiidia amliiijiia 12

.sexier iiiides 1 1

INDEX.

55

Page.

Triple-awn-grass, branching 12

prairie 12

])urplisli 12

Tripsacum dactyloides 11

Velvet bean 50

Velvet-grass 40

Vetcb IJ, 14. 1 .-., 17, 20, 44, 50

dwarf 50

bairy 18, 22, 50, 51

spring 51

winter 51

Ticia saliva 51

Page.

Vicia villosa 50, 51

Tigna catjang 45

glabra . 13

Water-grass 11, 13, 40

large 10,11,12,14,16,41

smooth 10

Wheat 21, 42

Wheat-grass, Japanese 29

Wire-grass 12, 13, 14, 15, :i3

sedge 11

Tani, Chinese 43

Zizaniuj'sis miliacea 13

Bulletin No. 16. Agros.32.

U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE.

DIVISION OF AGEOSTOLOGY.
[OraMM :iii<l Foragt' I*laiil IiiveslijjaitiouN.]

GRAZING PROBLEMS IN THE SOUTHWEST

AND HOW TO MEET THEM.

BY

JARED G. SMITH,

ASSISTANT AGROSTOLOGIST.

PREPAKED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE AGROSTOLOGIST.

WASHINGTON:

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.
1899.

LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL

U. S. Department of Agriculture,

Division of Agrostology,
Washington, D. C, January 25, 1899.
Sir: I have the honor to trausuiit herewith, and to recommend for
publication as Bulletin No. 10 of this Division, a report on the grazing
l)roblems iu the Southwest and how to meet tliem, by Jared G. Smith,
assistant chief of this Division.
Kespectfully,

F. Lamson-Scribner,

Ayrostologist.

Hon. James Wilson,

ISecretary of Agriculture.

PREFACE.

The vast areas of grazing lands in the Southwest have long been
justly famous, and the almost numberless herds of cattle and bauds of
horses raised and fattened upon the nutritious grasses of that region
have enriched thousands of individuals and have been a source of great
commercial wealth to the nation.

Less than thirty years ago 4,000,000 buffaloes and countless numbers
of wild horses roamed unrestricted over the region in question, grad-
ually moving northward as the season advanced, returning southward
at the approach of winter. This natural movement of the stock per-
mitted alternation of pasturing and rest for the land, resulting in the
maintenance of the forage supply; in fact it was an ideal method of
fostering and improving these pasture lands which covered nearly
200,000 square miles of country.

The nature and extent of the interests here, make this region an espe-
cially important one in the line of grass and forage i)lant investigation.
The carrying capacity has diminished fully 40 per cent through over-
stocking and bad management during the past fifteen years, and the
grazing and forage problems of the region demand serious and careful
attention.

The Secretary of Agriculture, fuily appreciating these conditions,
directed this Division early in 1807 to begin investigations of these for-
age problems and conditions throughout the region of the Southwest,
with instructions that particular attention be given to the native
grasses and forage plants, their abundance and value, their preserva-
tion, and the possible methods to be employed in restoring the former
carrying capacity of the ranges. The Division was also emjjowered to
establish experiment stations for testing the grasses and forage plants
in different sections of this region and to x^iactice such methods of
range renewal as might seem worthy of trial.

As a preliminary to these investigations a circular of inquiry was
sent out to over 1,500 stockmen in Texas, New Mexico, etc. The
reiilies, together with other correspondence which these circulars
elicited, have brought together many valuable facts and demonstrated
that the stockmen throughout the region in question are anxious that
the work should be commenced and willing to cooperate with the
Department in any way possible.

The assistant chief of the Division was sent to Texas about the mid-
dle of May, 1897, and between that time and the 1st of September col-
lected botanical material and made extensive notes and observations on
range conditions of central and southern Texas, visiting some 30 sta-
tions in that State and ISfew Mexico, securing information by direct

3

4 PREFACE.

observation in about 50 counties, and getting a great many notes from
stockmen in regard to the grasses and topography of the country and
the natural conditions of sections which it was impossible to exi)lore.
The work was carried uj) the Pecos Valley as far as Roswell and to
Demiug and Silver City in western New Mexico.

Mr. H. L. Bentley, of Abilene, was given a commission to collect speci-
mens, make notes and write a report on the past and present conditions
of the grazing industry in central Texas. His report, applicable to
the territory, 200 miles long and 150 miles wide, between the ninety-
eighth meridian and the western edge of the Staked Plains, has been
published by this Division, in Farmers' Bulletin No. 72 and Divisional
Bulletin No. 10. Mr. Orrick Metcalfe was employed to collect seeds of
the best of the range grasses in the vicinity of Silver City and along
the valley of the Gila.

As a result of this work it was decided to obtain control of a body
of overgrazed land in the Panhandle and another in central Texas
in order to carry on experiments in methods of practical range
improvement. After correspondence with a number of the leading
stockmen Prof. C. C. Georgeson was sent in March, 1898, to inspect the
sections ofi'ered for the use of this Division. He chose 640 acres near
Channing, on the north plain, north of the Canadian River, and another
CiO acres near Abilene, just south of the western arm of the western
cross timber belt. Professor (leorgeson organized and commenced
experiments at Channing, but was unable to establish the work at
Abilene because of a transfer to another line of work in the Depart-
ment, and Mr. Smith was ordered to Abilene to superintend the matter
during the latter part of March and first of April. In order to carry
on the work as outlined Mr. H. L. Bentley, of Abilene, Tex., was given
a commission as special agent in charge of the experiments at that
I)oint.

This work in range imjirovement is the first that has been tried
either by the Government or by any State exi)eriinent station. The
only experiment at all comparable was that begun some years ago at
Garden City, Kans.

Some preliminary work had been done in the Southwest by this
Division in 1890. In February of that year Mr. C. K. Orciitt, of San
Diego, Cal., was given a commission for three months. He was
instructed to proceed through Arizona and New Mexico as far east as
El Paso, and to collect such specimens and make such general observa-
tions concerning the grasses and forage plants of the region as wonld
be of interest to the Division. In September, 1890, the assistant chief
of the Division was instructed to proceed to several points in Texas
and New Mexico for the i)iirpose of accpiiring information concerning
the grasses and forage plants of that region. In consequence of this
trip we have been able to secure, through Mr. James K. Metcalfe, of
Silver City, N. ]Mex., quantities of seeds of native grasses and forage
plants, which have been used in the experimental work of the Division.

PREFACE. 5

It will be of interest to many to note here the work previously done
by the Department of Agriculture in the Southwest,

In 1886 Dr. George Vasey, in Bulletin No. 1 of the Division of Botany,
drew attention to the enormous loss of cattle in the Southwest throngh
overstocking of the ranges and lack of protection from storms in win-
ter. In 1883-84 the Bureau of Animal Industry investigated the range
problems with special reference to the loss of stock from storms. This
loss was estimated to vary from 5 per cent in a mild winter in Texas
to 18 or 20 per cent in the Dakotas and Montana. The next report
which treated of the condition of affairs in Texas was Bulletin No. 3 of
the Division of Botany, published in 1887, in which the attention of
the general public was for the first time drawn to the value in cultiva-
tion of Colorado grass {Panicum texanum) and Texas blue grass {Poa
arachmfera), and also to alfilaree, bur clover, Japan clover, mesquite
bean, and prickly pear. In 1887 an expedition was conducted in
western Texas by Mr. G. C Nealley, and in New Mexico, Arizona,
Nevada, and Utah by Prof. S. M. Tracy, who was at that time at
the University of Missouri. Professor Tracy's report was largely
botanical, while Mr. Nealley's was not only botanical, but contained
many economic notes in regard to the grasses and such forage plants
as " sotol," mesquite bean, and prickly i^ear. The reports of Messrs.
Tracy and Nealley were published in Bulletin No. 6 of the Division of
Botany. An enumeration of the grasses of Texas, with descriptions by
Mr. L. H. Dewey, assistant botanist, was published in Vol. II of the
Contributions to the National Herbarium in 1890.

In 1891 Dr. Vasey, accompanied by Mr. L. II. Dewey, made a trip
along the line of the Southern Pacific Pailroad in Texas, New Mexico,
and Arizona, stopping en route to make botanical collections and secure
notes. These, however, were never i>ublished. Considerable collect-
ing was done in 1890-91 by G. C. Nealley, mainly in the territory along
the line of the Mexican National, the International, and the Southern
Pacific railroads. In 1891 Mr. F. V. Coville, Chief of the Division of
Botany, and Frederick Funston investigated from a botanical stand-
point the flora of southwestern Nevada and southeastern California,
incidentally gathering notes concerning the forage value of many of
the plants of that region.

Previous to 1888 there were a dozen or more expeditions through
some parts of the Southwest, but the notes made were almost solely in
regard to the botanical relationship of the different plants. We are
indebted for much of our knowledge of the forage plants other than
grasses to the work of Drs. Palmer and Havard, the latter having been
stationed at different army posts in Texas and the Southwest for a num-
ber of years. Dr. Ilavard's most valuable contribution was published
as "A report on the flora of southern and western Texas" in Vol.
VIII of the Proceedings of the United States National Museum, 1885.

F. L.-S.

CONTENTS,

Page.

Introduction '^

Free ranges 8

Overstocking the range 9

Investigation of grazing problems 10

Destruction of grasses l>y animal pests 14

Deterioration through increase of weeds 15

Prickly pear 15

Mesquite bean 18

Renewing the cattle ranges 19

Rest versus alternation of pastures 21

Additional aids to range improvement 22

Stack silage .' - 23

Hay 26

Water 26

Grazing regions in Texas and New Mexico 27

The coastal prairies 28

The cactus plains 33

The middle plains 36

The gran ite region 37

The red prairies 37

TheStaked Plains 40

The Pecos Valley 42

Relation of land laws to range; improvement 43

llenetits of improving the ranges 45

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Fig. 1. Bunch salt-grass (Spartina jiimiformis) 30

2. Torr(!y's sedge-grass (Andropotjon sacvharoides torrei/onun) 31

3. Bur-grass ( Cenchrus iribuloidcs) 33

4. Seed mesquite (Boutelona texana) 31

5. Rescue grass {Bromus nnioloides) 36

6. Needle grass (Arixtida faxciciilata) 3S

7. Black grama {Hilaria mutlca) 39

8. Curly iiies(iuite ( Hilaria eencliroides) 40

9. Woolly-foot {BoKteloiia eriupoda) 43

6

GRAZING PROBLEMS IN THE SOUTHWEST AND HOW

TO MEET THEM.

INTRODUCTION.

The plains and prairies of Texas have long been famed as grazing
regions. There are few similar areas where the natural conditions at
the time of first occupation were so favorable to the rapid development
of the stock industry. The country lying between the Rio Grande and
the thirty-fifth parallel of latitude and between the ninety-eighth and
one hundred and fifth meridians is a successiou of prairies and plains,
rising gradually by successive broad steps from the coast to the table-
land of the Staked Plains at an altitude of about 4,000 feet. This
series of plains is broken by mountains only in the southern and south-
western portion and west of the Pecos River beyond their borders.
Of the 11>0,000 square miles embraced in this territory probably not
more than 10 per cent is adapted to successful agriculture under present
methods, although one-fifth or one-third of it is capable of conversion
into farm lands, and doubtless will be so converted at some future
period, when the farmer is able to preserve the abundant natural
resources of the region and profit thereby.

At the time of the earliest settlement this Texas territory was for
the most part treeless, excepting along the streams and where the two
bodies of "cross timbers" entered it ou the north and where a wedge-
shaped tongue of the east Texan timber belt penetrates the prairies
south of Austin and San Antonio. The land was well covered with
grasses, and was grazed by immense herds of buffalo, wild horses, and
great numbers of deer and antelope.

Among stockmen the tendency has been to look upon these wild
lands as never having been grazed until cattle and sheep were intro-
duced, but there is abundant evidence to show that they have always
been closely pastured. The early explorers differed in their accounts of
the luxuriance of the grass vegetation, but the differences were no
greater than can be accounted for by local or temporary causes, such as
variable seasonal rainfall, which occur at the present day.

It is estimated that the southern buffalo herd contained not less than
four million head.* This vast number grazed in the district south of
the Platte River, retiring to the plains of western Texas and the Indian
Territory at the approach of winter, and turning northward again in

*Smithson. Report Nati<m:il Mnseiim, 1887. The Exterminatiou of the Auierican
Bisou, p. 498 iiud foUowiug. Hoinaday.

8

early spring. There were also miraberless herds of wild horses, accord-
iug to the narratives of some of the early exj^lorers and hunters.

There was a constant shifting of the wild herds in their search for
the best pasturage, and with the season, drifting northward with the
spring aud southward at the approach of winter, congregating where
there was water and grass. The conditions were entirely natural and
the movements of the herds were almost unrestricted. The intermit-
tent grazing and resting of the laud resulting from the roving habits
of the buffalo and mustangs was an ideal method of fostering aud
improving the natural pasturage. The result of this alternation of
pastures, conducted on a gigantic scale, was that the native grasses
were allowed to fully ripen their seeds, and perpetuate themselves each
year in the most liberal manner. The best grazing grasses were devel-
oped by the processes of natural selection and survival of the fittest.
Weeds and brush were kept in check by the annual tires set by the
Indians in early spring to improve the pasturage for their ponies and
the wild game. In this manner the encroachment of thorny shrubs,
cactus, and mesquite was prevented, aud each grew only where pro-
tected in the valleys along the streams or in scattered clumps at rare
intervals in the open. The disappearance of the buffalo* was nearly
coincident with that of the Indian,! and there was a period of fully ten
years after the destruction of the butfalo herds before the number of
cattle and sheep on any portion of the ranges equaled the great herds
of game. These years, from 1874 to 1884, may be called the ''golden
period" of the Southwestern stockman, or at least a golden one for
those whose flocks and herds were already on the ranges. During this
intermediate decade there were fewer head of stock, wild or domestic,
than at any previous period. There were also abundant rains and the
seasons were mild and ftivorable to the full development of the grasses.
Grasses and forage i)lants,ungrazed, grew and thrived, reseeded them-
selves, and increased to a wonderful degree of luxuriance, so that the
stockmen on entering this pastoral paradise thought that it was not
possible to put enough cattle and sheep on the laud to eat down all of the
rank growth of vegetation. It is the common testimony of the older
stockmen that in the early eighties the grass was often as high as a
cow's back, not only along the river bottoms, but also on the uplands
far from the creeks and rivers.|

FREE RANGES.

Before 1883 the ranges of central and western Texas were free to any
man who chose to run stock upon them. The laud was inaccessible
from the railroads aud was considered of no value for general farming

*Tho .Southern hufifalo herd was almost cxt<Tiiiiiiate(l in 1873. Hornaday, 1. c.
tThf last Indian tribes were removed Irom Texas by act of Congress in 1S74. Han-
croft'a Works, Vol. XVI, p. 25, 18«y.

\ Farmers' bul. No. 72, Cattle liauges ol'thc Southwest.

9

purposes. In 1883 the Texas and Pacific Railroad was built tbrougli
the heart of the rauge country, and there was an influx both of owners
or agents of the lands and of investors who were seeking to acquire
free ranges and free grass. Toward the close of this ten-years' shortage
of stock there were undoubtedly sections where the native grasses
would support 300 head of stock per square mile; and the average
carrying capacity of the ranges as a whole was, so far as known, higher
than at any time before or since. With the building of the railroad
the stock industry underwent a very rapid development. Newcomers
who had not seen the land when it was possessed by the Indian, the
buffalo and mustang, at the time when the herbage was eaten down, or
kept in check by fires or drought, naturally thought that this rich
profusion of vegetation was the normal condition and that the saying
that it was impossible to i)ut enough cows on the land to eat all the
grass was literally true. The result was a rapid and exhausting over-
stocking of every available square mile of range land. The best grasses
were eaten down to their very roots, the roots were trampled into the
earth, and every green thing was cut down so that it could neither rii)en
seed, and thus perpetuate its kind, nor recover from the trampling and
exjiosure of its roots to the air and sun. The recuperative power of
the grasses was lessened or destroyed, and weedy species which were
present before, but which had been held in check by the luxuriance of
the better, dominant sorts, immediately increased in number by rapid
bounds. So also the mesquite bean and the cactus, both of which may
be destroyed by fire, grew in numbers and commenced to crowd out
the grasses.

OVERSTOCKING THE RANGE.

There are many square miles of territory in the Southwest where the
ruthless destruction of grass has been carried to the extent mentioned
above. The grazing capacity of large bodies of land has been reduced
within a period of twenty years from one head to 2 to 5 acres, to one
head to 20 or 25 acres. As late as 1883 from 128 to 320 head of cattle
could be supported on a single section, where to support a like number
now requires from 4 to 12 square miles. Where the conditions have
been especially unfavorable, stockmen report that it sometimes requires
60 acres i)er head, and the laud there is almost bare of vegetation.
Su(;h denuded areas occur in New Mexico and Arizona, aud are due
almost entirely to the ruthless destruction of free grass on public lands.

The chief cause of overstocking in the first place was the free-range
system, under which lands owned by the State, public institutions, or
corporations, under the common law and in the absence of the owners
or their agents, were considered as commons upon which any man was
free to pasture all the cattle or sheep which he could command. The
holding or use of lands in common always results in rapine, because of
the principle that what is everyone's property is no one's, and no one
is responsible for its abuse and spoliation. Because the legal owners.

10

of the land — in this case largely the State and public institutions and
railroads — were not on liand to maintain their riglits, they were ignored,
and the result was then as it is now in most of tlie Western States
and Territories containing unalienated Government land, that every
blade of free grass was stripped from the soil. No thought was given
to preserving the inheritance of those who were to occupy the land
in future years; it was every man for himself, and he was the best
man who could put the most cattle on the ranges to eat the most of the
free grass. The natural outcome of this was that the ranges through-
out the entire region were overstocked. Cow men thought that they
could not put enough cattle on the ranges to eat all the free grass,
and it was a very great surprise to most of them when in 1884 they
began to discover the fallacy of this idea. The losses at that time
throughout the whole Southwest were enormous, and the only thought
of those who continued in the cattle business during the succeeding
years was to recoup at all hazards and to follow the same tactics
that had been previously employed— putting upon the pasture every
head of stock which it was believed the land would sustain. As the
strength of any structure is equal to the strength of its weakest part, so
the carrying capacity of any large area may be considered equal to the
number of stock which may be supported upon it during its poorest
years. Just so sure as the number of grazing animals is allowed to
increase beyond this conservative estimate there enters a greater lia-
bility to loss. For example, it is never safe to attempt to graze 75 or
80 head upon a section of land which will only safely carry 50 head the
year round, although if the natural conditions are exceptionally favor-
able during a particular year a man nuiy overstock his pastures and
realize a profit during that year. On the contrary, should the natural
conditions not prove to be as favorable as the stockman had hoped, his
losses at 75 or 80 head per square mile will largely exceed the normal
losses were the land stocked only to the extent of its mininuini carry-
ing capacity. Not only will the pecuniary loss, or the liability to such
loss, be less and the actual profits on the cattle be more in the case of
undergrazing, but the land itself will gradually increase in value and the
grazing capacity will be augmented from year to year. In one case the
land is stocked beyond its carrying capacity, so that it rapidly and con-
tinuously deteriorates in value; in the other case there is a constant
increase in value both of the land and its products during the same
series of years.

INVESTIGATION OF GRAZING PROBLEMS.

In the prosecution of an investigation of the Texas ranges a num-
ber of circular letters were sent by the chief of the division to cattle
and sheep owners in the Southwest asking for estimates as to the per-
centage of increase or decrease of the carrying cai)acity of the ranges.
An inquiry was also made as to what , in the opinion of stockmen, were

11

the chief forage problems of this section; and advice was asked as to
methods of restoring, renewing, and improving the ranges where tbey
had been overgrazed. About 300 repHes were received from stock and
range owners in the State of Texas, and some of the data furnished are
here tabulated :

County.

Aransas

Archer

Armstrong

Atascosa

Bexar

Brazoria —

Average

■ Salt grass

Prairie

Wooded bottoms

Brewster

Brown

Burnet

Castro

Callioun

Callahan

Camp

Carson ,

Childress

Clay (average)

Coke

Collin

Collin

Coleman

Collingsworth

Coh)rado

Comal

Comanche ,

Concho

Cooko

Crockett

Crosby

Dallas (average)

Deaf Smith..:

Denton

Dewitt

Dickens

Donley

Dnvai ,

Eastland

Ector

El Paso

Erath

Fisher

Foard

Gallagher

Galveston

Goliad

Gray

Gravson

Hale

Hall

Hansford

Hardeman

Hartley

Hemphill

Ho])kin8

Hood

Howard

Hutchinson

Irion

Jack

Johnson

Jones

Num-
ber of
persons
report-
ing.

4

10

1

2

1
3
1
1
1
1
1
3
1
1
4
3
1
4
1
5
1
1
2
1
2

3

10
1
1
1
1
1
1
3
3
1
1
5
4

The present carrying capacity
of the ranges; number of
head per square mile.

Cattle.

80
40
35
53
66

90
128
130
82
45
40

45
213
GO
10
65
58
84
50
" 150
c250
70
64
75
60
60
50
80
25
40
77
32
83
97
45
52
64
68
25
16
62
47
51
40
200
70
50
210
32
52
40
45
64
34
83

32

52

64

200

Horses.

50

40
50

90

Slieep.

300 to 700

Estimated percentage of increase
or decrease in carrying capacity
of the range in a period of twenty-
tive years.

Decrease
(per cent).

40
38

25

40

40

40
'35 ]

8
'25

300

45

30

40

30
40

20
20
30
85

85
"56

20

35
64
10

10
11
64

28
75

30
'46

640
6 90

1,000
300

200

100
100
100
210

600
256'

100

200 to 640
150

35
25

10
33

50
50
50
e5 to 17
38

38
27

33
29
29
38
33

25
50
50
26
40

29

160

200
' 266

126' to 266

12
50
50

33
33
50

Neither de-
crease nor
increase.

(a)

(a)

(a)

(a)
(a)

(a)

(a)
(a)

(a)

(a)
'(a)

(a)

ia)
W

(a)
(a)
(a)
(a)

(a)
(a)

(a)

(a)

(a)

Increase
(per cent).

(d)

(d)

20 to 25

(d)

33 to 50

(d)
"(d)"

(d)

(d)

a No decrease except through occasional bad seasons.

c March to November. d Marked improvement.

33

6 Decrease from brush.
e In twenty years.

12

County.

Karnes

King

Knox

Lasalle

Lipscomb

Live Oak

Lubbock

Lynn

Jtf atagorda

TMaverick

IMcLennan

McMuUen

^Midland

TMenard

:Mit<bell

Montague

Moore

Nolan

iNueces

'Ochiltree

Oldham

Palo Pinto

Parker

Potter

Presidio

Kains

Randall

Roberts

Runnels

San A.ugustiiie-

San Patricio

Sau Saba

Scurry

Shackcllbrd

Sherman

Starr

Sterling

Stephens

Tarrant

Taylor

■ Throckmorton .

Titus

Tom Green

Uvalde

Vjilverde

Victoria

AValler

Ward

"VV heeler

Wichita

"Wilbarger ....

"VA'illiaiii.son ...

"Wise

"Wood

Young

Zavalla

Num-
ber of
persons
report
ing.

The present carrying capacity
of the ranges; number of
head per square mile.

1
1
2
1

■ft

1
2
2
2
1
1
2
7
1
5
5
2
4
5
1
1
3
1
10
1
3
I
5
2
1
3
2
2
6
1
1
3
4
5
1
1
3

12
1
2
4
1
5
2
3
9
3
1
3

12
1

Cattle. Horses.

100
45
52
60
40
80
32
40

132
33

100
70
30

I

53
68
50
48
74
57
35
80
100
32
30
57
64
34
75
83
56
65
38
64
60
35
45
64
96
04
32
20
53
60
50
122
210
17
35
66
44
48
100
90
60
55

Sheep.

58

40
50
25
60
25
32
80
24

45

24

40
60

30
60

75
50
30
30
62

20
50

40
30
25
55

32
45
80
60

39
30

17
30

32
25

35

28

220

640

640
250

500
170

420
104

150
225

Estimated percentage of increase
or decrease in carrying capacity
of the range in a period of twenty-
five years.

Decrease
(per cent).

300

850

L200

200

60

150

300

120

250

450
620

210
250
150

120

112

100

75
30
38
50
50

6 25
38

c50
38
40

23
c33

Neither de-
crease nor
increase.

Increase
(per cent).

(o)

id)

45
33
40
6 35
80
33
38

(d)

(o)
(a)
(a)

25

65

33

18
20
6 50
28
25

(d)

UD

id)

66
83
31

10
30
70
33
50
33

50
38
24
28
40
30
80
42

40

id)
(d)

(d)

(d)

(d)
(rf)

[a)

(a)

(a)

100

Number of counties ■

Number of stockmen rejjorting cattle

Averagi! (;arry iiig Ciii)acity. cattle, i)er square mile

Number of stixkiiiiii r<iiorting horses

Average < arrying (capacity, hiirses, per H(|uare mile

Number of count ios whiie carrying cai)acity has decreased

A veragi' pcn!i'nt age of ilectrcase • ■■ ,"

Number of counties reporting improveuient in pastoral conditions

115
302

64.8

67

33

82

19

aMarked improvement.

c Decrease from prairie dogs.

6 Decrease from brush.

dNo decrease cvcejil IhrougU occasional bad .soa.sons.

Accordiiif;- to the above data it will be seen tliat the average grazing
capacity of the State as a whole, as reported by 302 stockmen, in 115
counties, is a trilie over 04 head per siiuare mile, or 1 head to 10 acres.

13

The estimated average decrease in the carrying capacity amounts to
40 per cent in 82 counties, while in 19 counties a marked improvement
iu the pasturage within recent years is reported. Accepting this
estimate of a 40 per cent average decrease, the grazing capacity in
former years must have averaged at least lOG head of stock cattle to
the square mile. This loss, in the central and western portions of the
State, is almost entirely due to the ravages of prairie dogs and to put-
ting too many cattle on the laud. Farther south the encroachment of
brush and cactus and a large increase in the number of jack rabbits are
additional causes. The pecuniary loss which the stock owners of the
State have sustained since 1883 is not the only evil arising from graz-
ing too many cattle on the land. Overstocking not only causes loss of
cattle and sheep from starvation in time of drought, but it causes the
rapid extermination of the most valuable of the native grasses and
forage plants. In any pasture the grasses which are first eaten down
are those which are most nutritious or most palatable. Unless the
pasturage is fostered atul these best grasses are protected by resting
or by artificial care and cultivation, they are soon reduced in number
and become unimportant factors. They are prevented from rii^ening
seed and are eaten so close that often the roots are killed by exposure.
The first result of overgrazing is the disappearance of the best grasses,
that is, a lessening of the potential carrying capacity of the pasture.
If the best grasses cover 25 per cent of the range, the loss from over-
grazing will be at least that amount. If the pasture is still overstocked,
a similar i)rocess is continued with the remaining species until at last
there is not a blade or fragment of a stem left to suj)port any grazing
animal. The young shoots are eaten off as rapidly as put forth by the
plant and the vitality of the plant is sapped, so that it is unable to
endure extremes of temperature or shortage of water suj^ply to the
same degree as when its growth has been uninterrupted. It has been
noted that very often in times of drought the best grazing grasses,
such as sedge grasses, needle grasses, gramas, and curly mesquite,
which will ordinarily withstand the hardest usage, are destroyed root
and branch by being eaten into the ground. Not only is the grass
destroyed, but the ground over extensive areas is trampled and com-
pacted by the cattle until every sprig that grows upon it breaks up
and is blown away. Following the destruction of the valuable peren-
nials, the low annuals, such as the six weeks' grama, come iu and sup-
ply almost the only feed. At the same time that the valuable grasses
are disappearing the laud is being invaded by a vast number of ram-
pant weeds which are not eaten by any grazing animal.

It is the opinion of a majority of stockmen who replied to the ques-
tion as to the amount of range deterioration, that there has been a very
large loss in what may be called the capital value of the grazing lands
within a very short period. The land which is made poor by this
stripping j)rocess suffers actual decrease in fertility through exposure

14

of the surface layers to the sun and air. Soils which are covered with
verdure are always fertile and those which lack a protecting plant cov-
ering are sterile and deficient in "life." Overgrazing also subjects the
soil to the destructive action of torrential rains. When rain falls upon
any field thickly covered with grass or other vegetation, the surface
drainage is much retarded because the total surface for the retention
of water is largely increased; but when the grass is eaten olf, or
destroyed in any other way, not only is less of the rainfall absorbed
but the full force of the rushing waters is exerted upon the exposed
surface, and vast quantities of the finest and richest jiarts of the soil
covering are washed into tbe streams. This denudation of land by the
destruction of its grasses, while perhaps not so familiar as that following
from the destruction of forests, nevertheless is proceeding quite rapidly
in a great number of places in the West. The washing away of the
soil iiroceeds less rapidly on the plains where the slopes are less abrupt
than in the mountains, but the result is just as sure, although the obvi-
ous destruction is less marked. Wherever grasses are allowed to fnlly
mature and are not entirely eaten down, there is a decided difference
in the amount and rapidity of the drainage. Less water runs off" into
the streams in the form of floods and more is absorbed into tbe soil.
These are the various results of the evil course of overstocking the
grazing lands of the West, which if persisted in will surely supply
another example of the transformation by human agencies of a fertile
land into a desert waste.

DESTRUCTION OF GRASSES BY ANIMAL PESTS.

In addition to the destruction of the grasses by stock, the number
of grass-eating pests, especially prairie dogs and jack rabbits, has
rapidly increased. These were formerly kept in check to a large
extent by their natural enemies, but when the bulk of the gray wolves
and coyotes were killed off" by the stockmen, on account of their depre-
dations among sheep and young cattle, there was nothing to prevent
the grass destroyers from rapidly increasing and spreading out over new
territory. Another potent cause of the spread of these pests to new
land is the destruction of the grass and the consequent diminution of
their natural food supply. There are now hundreds of square miles
of prairie-dog towns in the central and western portion of the range
country, while in the South the jack rabbits are becoming very numerous.
Five jack rabbits will consunje enongh grass i^er annum to keep one
sheep, and twenty prairie dogs will eat and spoil even more. Like the
rabbits in Australia, both of these pests breed rui)idly, so that it takes
only a short time after the decdmation of either one by epidemics or by
l)oisoning to fully recruit their numbers. Poisoning can be made
effective if there is concert of action among the stockmen in any given
locality. The dogs and rabbits must be killed in all the pastuies within
a district. To destroy them in one i»a,sture or township and not in the

15

adjohiing ones amounts to throwing away time and money. There is
great need of systematic effort to check the increase of both rabbits
and prairie dogs. The amount of forage annually destroyed by them
is enormous. The loss of grass is distributed among a large number of
stockmen, and so is not felt in its entirety by individual owners, but the
loss in taxable values to the counties and the State is no small one.
The grass eaten by 100,000 rabbits would support 20,000 sheep, and
there are nuxny counties in southern Texas where this would be a very
moderate estimate of their numbers. In the heart of the prairie dog-
infested region the writer has seen extensive villages where, at a very
conservative estimate, tliere were from 2,000 to 5,000 prairie dogs to the
square mile. ]S"ow, on a square mile of land so infested the dogs eat
and defile grass enough to maintain from 100 to 250 sheep per annum.
Prairie dogs will not tolerate tall grass near their burrows, probably
partly on account of the cover thus given to their enemies, and partly
because these grasses are better relished by the dogs. They dig up the
roots of all of the more succulent species, like the sedge grasses, and
permit only the low turf formers to remain. The dog- village grasses
are needle grass, curly mesquite, woolly oats {Triodia avenacea), and, in
western Texas and New Mexico, hard grass {Scleropo(/on hrevifoHus),
a harsh-stemmed turf-former seldom found in abundance anywhere
else. Some of the grasses that occupy the prairie dog-infested land
are intrinsically valuable for grazing, especially in winter when cured
on the ground, but they lack the bulk of the taller kinds which would
grow on the land if the prairie dogs were killed. Lands occupied en-
tirely by these grasses are not and can not be called productive; they
have reached almost the lowest stage of deterioration, and are next to
valueless for grazing purposes. The extermination of prairie dogs
and jack rabbits means a great deal if the grazing industry is to be
developed to its fullest extent.

DETERIORATION THROUGH INCREASE OF "WEEDS.

Another factor which is tending to decrease the carrying capacity of
the ranges, as a whole, is the rapid spread of prickly pear and thorny
shrubs in the South and of the mesquite bean on the table lands and
higher prairies. At certain times or in certain seasons both the prickly
pear and the mesquite bean are of some value as sources of food, but
their increase can not be looked upon as wholly beneficial.

PRICKLY PEAR.

The iiat joints of the prickly pear {Opuntia engelmanni) are mucilagi-
nous and watery, and in times of drought serve to some extent as
food, or, more especially, water. Cattle and sheep may be kept alive
for several months on prickly pear when all other forage has become
dried and broken and has blown away — a state of affairs that often
occurs duriug a severe drought. At such times, if the stockman

16

has put his trust entirely in the native herbage and the natural water
supply and has made no provision for bad seasons by putting up hay or
by digging wells or making storm water tanks, the prickly pear may be
considered a valuable forage plant, as without it the stockman could
not bring his cattle through the drought alive. But in the good
years — and there are a great many more good years than bad ones —
the prickly pear takes up space that might be better filled by grasses,
for when there is plenty of grass, cattle do not touch the cactus, and its
rank growth shades and chokes out the better forage. In the lower
valleys, from the Guadalupe River west, this cactus forms thickets with
the various spiny shrubs that compose the "chaparral" — tangled copses
with paths winding here and there among clumps that are each year
becoming more impenetrable. The only grasses that thrive here are
shade-loving species, which, compared with those that grow in the full
sunlight, are unpalatable and of little feeding value. A few sprawling
stems of some of the better and formerly abundant grasses struggle
upward toward the light wherever i)rotected from extermination by the
sharp-spined cactus, but it may no longer be called a well-grassed coun-
try. From the standpoint of the botanist the prickly-pear thickets are
splendid collecting grounds, but from the standpoint of the ranchmen
the increase of cactus, rapid in good years and slow in bad ones, is
extremely prejudicial and withal disheartening. Scarcity of rainfall
does not seem to influence the prickly pear the same way as the grasses,
the former simply holding its own during times of scarcity and shooting
ahead with renewed vigor when the rainfall becomes normal, the latter
quickly dying to the ground. On the southern prairies the stockmen
have seen the change within fifteen or twenty years from open country,
covered knee-high with luxuriant grasses, to a tangled thicket with
grasses only at intervals, and the prickly pear so thick that it is hard
to drive cattle through it.

How to destroy pricJcly 2)ear. — Fire is the only remedy which is always
effective in lighting the prickly pear, but to develop) enough grass and
undergrowth so that a fire will run through thickets composed of this
cactus requires that cattle shall be kept out of the pastures one and
often two years, and few stockmen are willing to sacrifice two years'
growth of grass even to rid themselves of the prickly pear. Mr.
William Benton, of ^S^ueces Count)', estimates the loss of pasturage from
encroachments of prickly pear within tlie last ten years at from 2.") to 35
per cent, year in and year out, and the present outlook is worse rather
than better. In otlier words, lands which have not suffered to any
appreciable extent in actual fertility, or in Avhat may be called the
potential fertility of the soil constituents, have only the capacity of
producing from two-thirds to three-fourths as much forage now as ten
years ago, although they are at present covered with a far greater
bulk and amount of vegetation. Many stockmen who have noted the
progress of this pest are of the opinion that in another twenty years
prickly })ear will cover a large part of the now open or fairly open

17

grazing- lands in the southern part of Texas, to the detriment of all
stock and land owners. As to the cost of destroying prickly pear by
means of fire, take, as an example, 1 square mile of land which will
carry G4 head of stock cattle the year round without winter feeding.
It requires three years to mature a steer, so that the grass product of
the square mile for one year will be equivalent to the amount of forage
necessary to fully mature 21 head. It has been estimated that a cow
or growing steer of 1,000 pounds live weight requires per day in pas-
ture about 110 pounds of green grass, containing from 24 to 27 pounds of
digestible food. At 110 pounds per day this would amount to 20.07 tons
of green grass per head of stock per year. Hence a pasture that carries
1 head to 10 acres must produce at the rate of 2 tons of green grass
per acre. Taking $20 as a fair average valuation for the cattle, the
market value of the grass turned into beef would be 21 times $20 or
$420, per square mile per annum, or about G6 cents per acre. Sixty-six
cents per acre would, according to the factors assumed, be the money
loss in grass if the pasture were burned after a lapse of one year. It is
doubtful whether any other method anywhere near as cheap could be
used to destroy the prickly pear. To be the most effective the pasture
should be burned in spring just after the new growth has commenced,
because the cactus is then most easily destroyed. The young and
tender shoots would be scorched and cooked and prevented from fur-
ther development, and the singeing oft" of the spines on the older shoots
would expose them to destruction by animals. The fire would also
check the development of the weeds and brush that thrive in the
shelter of the clumps of cactus. If hogs or goats could be herded on
the prickly pear after the fire, the destruction would be much more
complete. Goats especially are good scavengers to clean up weeds and
all kinds of noxious rubbish.

The following statements serve to illustrate the change that has
taken place in southwestern Texas through the increased growth of
prickly pear. Bartlett * says :

About the parallel of 29° 30' the table-land breaks off into numerous spurs,
descending to the great plains or prairies, which extend in a broad belt from 150 to
200 miles in width. The whole of this district consists of gently undulating plains,
without timber save along the margins of the streams, and is covered with the most
luxuriant grass. The indigenous prairie grass is tall, coarse, full of seed at the top,
and when young resembles wheat in the spring. But in grasses the glory of the
State is the mesquit, found only in western Texas. It yields a fine soft sward, pre-
serves its verdure in the winter, and beyond all comparison affords the best wild
pasture in the world.

Now this same region is covered with brush and cactus. Again'
describing the country between the Ilio Grande and Corpus Christi,
Bartlett says that the chaparral only occupied the immediate Rio
Grande Valley, a strip 0 to 8 miles wide, and that beyond this to the
northward there was a rolling prairie with a few scattered bodies of
(Cactus and low mesquite trees.

Bartlett, Personal Narrative, 1854, Vol. II, p. 566.

13475^5^0. 1(3 2

18

THE MESQUITE BEAN,

The niesquite beau [Prosoiris juUiiora) lias a very wide natural distri-
butiou from Texas to Argentina, it is oue of the characteristic trees
of the lo ver Souorau zoue, an area where the conditions as to rainfall
and climate range from arid to semiarid — that is, the rainfall varies
froui less thau 10 to about 25 inches per annum. With the exceptiou
of the coastal idain immediately bordering the Gulf, all of the best
grazing lands lie within this zone. In habit of growth the mesquite
bean resembles a peacli tree with rather scattering foliage. It nor-
mally i)roduces from one to three crops of beans every year. The pods
are filled with a sweetish palp, which causes them to be much sought
after when ripe by cattle and horses, and stockmen consider them as
fattening as grain. The production of pods is governed largely by the
season. In a year when the rains are uniformly distributed through
the growing season the yield will be light.

Stockmen say that if there is a sirring drought followed by abundant
summer rains, and then again an autumn drought, the mesquite trees
Avill either make two crops of ripe beans or will shed the first crop
before fully ripe and throw out a second lot of fiowers in midsummer.
This, of course, depends on the stage of growth which the beans have
attained when the midsummer rains come. The beans are produced iu
greatest abundance during the dry years, and are then very valuable
forage. The sweet pods are greedily eaten by cattle, and prove almost
as fattening as barley or other grain. The yield varies from a few
bushels to often 75 or 100 bushels of ripe pods from the trees on an
acre of land. The seeds are hard and indigestible, and remain iu the
dung when the pods are eaten by cattle. They then seem to be even
more sure of germination than when the pod is left to rot on the
ground. By this means alone this tree is spreading rapidly each year
over new territory, the seeds being scattered far and wide by all classes
of animals that feed on the i)ods. In the early days, when the central
prairies were sparsely settled, they Avere burned over each year, and
the young seedlings of this aud other trees were killed to the ground.
Twenty years ago it was hard to find a mesciuite bean on the open
prairies that was larger than a small shrub. The only places where
they occurred of any size were in the valleys and the '' timber islands" —
small scattered groves at interv^als on the prairies, usually about some
swale or along a ravine or a rocky knoll. Since the more complete
settlement of the country, fires are not allowetl to sweep the ])rairies,
on account of the possible loss of cr()])s and improvements. There is
nothing to check the growth of the mes(iuite bean, and they have
grown to the size of small trees, at the same time largely augmenting
in iiumbei'.

A mesquite grove has two distinct advantages, viewed from the
standpoint of the stockman, it supplies cover during "northers" aud

19

severe winter storms, and it produces varying crops of nutritious
beans, often at the time of the greatest scarcity of other feed. On the
other hand, there are several disadvantages. These mesquite groves
are centers of infection for the range in that they form natural covers
for the protection of prickly pear, cat's claw, wild currant {Berber is)
and other spiny shrubs and noxious weeds. They tend to choke out,
by overshadowing, the best and most nutritious sun-loving grasses.
Furthermore, the truidvs and branches cover quite au area of land on
every section, so that it is a question whether the grasses which are
displaced during nine good years would not be worth as much or more
than the crop of beans during the tenth dry year.

The best grasses are those that grow in the bright sunshine. There
is among grasses something of the same adaptation to locality, though
perhaps not so marked, as among plants of other natural families.
Some grasses — like the gramas, needle grasses, and blue stems —
mature only in the bright sunlight, clear and unobstructed; others
thrive only in half shade where protected by shrubbery and under-
growth, and others still would be burned out by the direct sunlight in
a single day. The feeding value of the grasses also varies directly
according to the amount of sunlight which they receive during the
growing season, and the grasses that live in the full sunlight are far
more nutritious, will fatten au animal sooner, and cause more rapid
gain in weight than those which grow either in the woods or in half
shade. Viewed from this standpoint, the rapid encroachment of the
mesquite bean on the open range must in time be detrimental to the
carrying capacity of the range. The consideration of these points
must enter into the problem of range deterioration and improvement.
The wild grasses of the high xirairies and tablelands depend upon the
Hood of sunlight for their high feeding value. If that is cut off or the
light rays are interrupted by the foliage of trees, the inherent fattening
qualities of the grasses are lessened. In this way both the individual
cattle owner and the State will sulier. The individual losses may seem
very small and unimportant, but in their aggregate they amount to no
inconsiderable sum, which must be subtracted from the total working
capital of the State.

RENEWING THE CATTLE RANGES.

That the natural pastures are in need of practical and scientific
treatment in order to increase their grazing capacity no one who is
acquainted with their past and present condition will deny. The most
obvious methods of bringing about the desired improvement are either
resting for several seasons to enable the grasses to retake the land
which has been denuded of its most valuable grasses, or cultivating the
surface of the pasture in order to accelerate the gradual natural proc-
esses.

Besides these, there is need of finding out what can be done in the

20

way of cultivating the best native grasses, of increasing the number
of valuable sorts by introduction of foreign species, of determining
whether a stand of certain forage plants may be secured by sowing
the seeds on the unbroken sod or on land which had simi)ly been har-
rowed, and of determining the practicability of inoculating range
land with turf-forming grasses.

For the purpose of carrying on such experiments two sections of
land have been leased by this Department, one atChanning, in Hartley
County, Tex., which will represent, in a large measure, the conditions
that prevail in the high plains of the Panhandle, and one at Abilene,
Tex., to serve for the central and western prairies up to the border of
the Staked Plains. On each of these sections three SO-acre and two
40-acre pastures have been fenced and are being treated as follows:

Pasture jVo. 1. — No treatment except to keep stock oft" until June 1,
pasturing the balance of the season.

Pasture No. 2. — Cut with a disk harrow and keep stock off" until June
1, pasturing the balance of the season.

Pasture No. 5. — ISTo treatment exce^it pasturing until June 1, and
keeping stock ofi' the balance of the season.

Nos. 1, 2, and 5 each contain 80 acres. Pastures numbered 3 and 4,
each consisting of 40 acres, are being grazed alternately, the stock being
changed from one pasture to the other every two weeks. In addition
to these fenced and stocked pastures, SO acres of land were dragged with
an ordinary straight- toothed iron harrow, one 80-acre tract was disked,
and a tbird was left as a check without any treatment whatever except
that, in common with the other two, no stock was allowed to run on it
during the lirst season. The remaining 80 acres are devoted in part
to the cultivation of grasses and forage plants, using both such as can
be obtained in the markets, and the native sorts, while a portion has
been set apart for minor experiments. Among the latter may be men-
tioned the breaking of east and west furrows at intervals in order to
intercept and catch the seed of the needle grasses and other bearded
seeds which are blown over the ground by the prevailing north and
south winds; the sowing of seeds of various wild and cultivated forage
plants directly upon the sod without other treatment, and experiments
in transplanting the best of the Avild turf forming grasses to bare spots
by setting bits of turf in the ground with a spud or sim])ly i)ressing
them with the boot heel into the soft earth after rain. On some por-
tions of this 80-acre field, experimoits will be made in sowing allilaree,
bur clover, Bokhara clover, and valuable wild forage plants which grow
in other similar regions directly on the sod without further treatment
than to keep stock off during at least the lirst year. The section at
Abilene was inspected before the commencement of the work by a com-
mittee of stockmen who made an estimate of the carrying capacity of
the land at that time. It will be judged at intervals throughout the
experiments by the same committee in order to determine as exactly as

21

possible the rate and percentage of improvement in the different pas
tures under the different methods of treatment. These experiments
will be carried on for three years, at the end of which time sulffciently
definate results ought to be secured to enable the stockmen to decide
what is the most practical method of bringing back the grasses. On
the cultivated land a large number of species Avill be tested in regard
to their adaptability to semiarid conditions. Not only will the seeds-
man's lists of grasses and forage plants be drawn upon, but a special
effort will be made to cultivate such native plants as tallow weed,
Metcalfe bean, Texas pea, and Buffalo pea. From the results thus far
secured at the close of the first season's work, it would appear that the
land which has been disked is improving at the most rapid rate. Even
at the rate of 40 cents per acre, which was paid for the work, this
treatment costs fully one-third less than simply resting the land with-
out treatment, and more than enough grass can be secured from the
disked land the first year to pay for the cost of the labor.

The best results have accrued from loosening the surface of the
ground in early spring before the grasses commence their new growth.
It stimulates the roots of such grasses as are already established,
causing them to grow with renewed vigor. At Abilene at the close of
the season (October 15, 1898) it was estimated tliat the grasses on land
which had been disked in the early spring had improved at least 25 per
cent in carrying capacity — that is, there was 25 per cent more grass on
the land at the end of the first season than appeared on adjoining pas-
tures which were not treated in any way. Both pastures were grazed
with the same amount of stock and treated as far as possible alike.
The experiments here referred to were commenced in the spring of
1898.

REST VERSUS ALTERNATION OF PASTURES.

A great many of the stockmen who have rei)orted concerning the
state of their ranges have suggested that the resting of the land would
be the cheapest and most practicable method of again bringing it up
to its highest value. Eesting is an excellent treatment wherever suf-
ficient grass remains to reseed the land. It is, however, not the most
rapid method, nor can it be considered the cheapest when one takes
into consideration the fact that the land to become fully regrassed
must be rested sometimes three or four years. Complete resting of a
pasture is really a more expensive means of improving the pasturage
than many would suppose. As shown above, in the case of range
deterioration through the growth of cactus, the grass on an acre of
land on a section capable of carrying 04 head of stock cattle is worth
66 cents per acre when the cattle are appraised at a valuation of §20
each. At this rate the cost of the renewal of the pasture in the course
of a few years would amount to very nearly the value of the land.

22

Partial resting, or resting during different seasons of the year, a system
which may be designated the alternation of pastures, secures the same
result at much less expense. Thus a range might be divided up into
a number of small i>astures provided with water, in each of which the
cattle would be allowed to run for not more than two or three mouths
at a time and then be transferred to another. In this way the succes
sion of grasses which normally occurs in nature can be fostered and
improved. Let us suppose a range of 100,000 acres in extcMit divided
into ten pastures of 10,000 acres each. At the average carrying capac-
ity for the State this body of land will produce forage enough to iSus-
taiu 10,000 stock cattle throughout the year. These divided up into
their various classes — beef steers, two-year olds, and yearlings, cows
and calves — could be held three months in one pasture and then trans-
ferred to another which had been kept free from stock during that
ength of time. A rest of two or three months during the growing-
season in early spring would enable the early grasses to ripen and shed
their seeds, thus perpetuating the early species. After the seed had
fallen, the cattle could be turned on the grass for two or three months
and again transferred to a fresh pasture. In the same way autumn
and winter pastures can be secured. Several stockmen who have
employed this method on a large scale for a number of years say that
their ranges are continually improving, in marked contrast to the dete-
rioration that had occurred through bad treatment of neighboring
properties where the old methods were practiced. It is also claimed
that pasture land thus treated will carry more head of cattle through
the year and bring them out in better condition than where the herd
has access at all seasons of the year to all portions of the range.
Where winter feeding is practiced in connection with alternation of
pastures, the very best results may be obtained at the least cost,
and the owner will find that with judicious care the value of his prop-
erty will constantly increase and the annual i)roflt as represented by
the increased number of marketable steers will more than compensate
for the cost and labor of changing cattle from oue pasture to another.

ADDITIONAL AIDS TO RANGE IMPROVEMENT.

In addition to the methods of improving the range by cultivating
the surface of tlie grouiul, raising native grasses, plowing occasional
furrows to arrest the wind-borno seeds, and scattering the seeds of
native and introduced forage plants on the unbroken sdd, the cultiva-
tion of the ranker and buUvier forage crops should be encouraged.
On aliiu)8t every ranch there are strips of valley lands, or often exten-
sive meadows, which are naturally well watered, or Avhich are so situ-
ated that they may be inigated from artificial tanks. These lands
should be put into cultivation. The rancher is often loath to incur the
expense and trouble necessary to gi-ow and cure a patch of sorghum
or of some hay grass, but the i)ossessi(m of a sulluiient amount of

23

cured fodder or hay will insure liiui against excessive loss as the result
of drought or of the rotting of the natural pasture grasses through
autumnal or winter rains.

STACK STLAGE.

Tlie practice of making good hay from alfalfa, cowpeas, Johnson
grass, the sorghums, and other coarse or succulent plants is often
attended with much difficulty, and the product varies in qnality and
value according to treatment. Successful hay making requires con-
siderable experience, besides taking time and a large force of laborers,
so that the expense of preparing a cured crop often amounts to very
nearly its feeding value. The fact that it recjuires a number of men
will sometimes prevent cattle owners from trying to put up any hay.
The desirability of having a quantity of green, or at least succulent,
feed during times of drought and during late winter and early spring
months is well recognized. In the farmiug districts that want may be
supi)lied by the cultivation of soiling crops, root crops, and by putting
up silage, the latter prepared in strongly built silos. The cost of
building a silo precludes its use by the majority of farmers and stock
owners, especially in the more sparsely settled districts and in the arid
and semiarid portions of the Southwest, where lumber and labor are
high priced. Fodder and hay are very desirable, but they must be
cheap and easily prepared else they will not be used. Stack silage or
oi)en-air silage is extensively used in portions of Australia, South
Africa, and northwest India, where the general conditions as to fer-
tility of the soil, rainfall, and climate are about the same as in Texas
and the Southwest.

It is claimed that the value of stack silage was first discovered about
1867, when a New Zealand farmei- whose haying operations were inter-
rupted by heavy rains, raked the green, freshly cut grass into a great
pile, his idea being to save the, as he supposed, rotten mass for fer-
tilizing purposes during the coming season. Instead of the grass rot-
ting a fermentation took place and the product was eaten greedily by
stock which were turned into the field during the winter. Whatever
may be the source of the practice, the fact remains that stack silage
finds a very wide use in hot countries among stock farmers and men
whose means do not permit them to j)urchase silage cutters and build
silos.

The theory of making silage is to pack the green forage into a com-
pact mass, thus preventing the entrance of air into the material. The
green mass undergoes a sufficient fermentation to partially cook and
preserve it. In building a silo the walls are constructed of heavy tim-
bers, braced and covered both inside and out with sheathing, tar paper,
and matched boards, made as nearly as possible air-tight, for it has
been found that wherever air penetrates into the mass or the fermen-
tation is carried too far the silage becomes moldy, producing an indi-

24

gestible mass. Where air lias free access during fermentation, the
process will be carried too far, but where the amount of air is limited
the fermentation is only carried to a certain point and the palatability
of the food is improved. It has been found that a silo and fodder-
cutting machines to chaff the stems into small pieces are entirely
unnecessary in dry climates. Instead, the green grass or green fodder
is raked and stacked as soon as cut. Then, when the pile has been
carried up as high as convenient, weights are put on the top and the
sides are trimmed down i)erpendicular with a hay knife. This method
produces a sweet silage, which has very nearly the same feeding value
as silage prepared at greater cost in built silos.

Mr. Fred Koehler, of Bee County, Tex., has used stack silage made
of sorghum, and considers it, when fed in connection with cotton-
seed meal and hulls, the cheapest and best fattening material for top-
ping oft" beef steers for the market. He builds a sort of paling fence,
using 4- or 6-inch fence boards in 10 to 16 feet lengths, woven together
with heavy galvanized fencing wire, leaving about a 2-inch space
between the boards. The length of this fence can be accommodated
to the diameter of the stack which it is desired to make. When the
sorghum is ready to cut, which is about the time that the seeds are
commencing to harden, one of these paling fences is set up in a circle,
varying from 12 to 20 feet or more in diameter. Then using horse
rakes, loaders, and stackers, the freshly cut or slightly wilted sorghum
is fed over the tops of the boards into tliis pen, and the process is con-
tinued until the pen is tilled. During the lilling, the fodder is stamped
down around the edges so as to leave no air s])aces. When the pen is
filled to the top a layer of straw is added and built up to a peak to shed
rain. On tliis is piled dirt or stones or bags of earth to the depth of 2
or 3 feet, in order that the pressure shall range from 125 to 200 pounds
to the square foot. Pressure may also be applied by means of a Span-
ish windlass or by levers. The palings remain in place until the stack
has settled and compacted sufficiently to stand alone, when they may
be removed and set up elsewhere and the process repeated.

It has been found that by applying the pressure at the right time
one may readily control the fermentation and produce either sour or
sweet silage as desired. Thus, if the fermentation is not allowed to
proceed above 130° F., if the stacks are weighted when this temi)era-
ture is reached sour silage is produced. If the fermentation is allowed
to go on until the temperature rises to between 150° and 165° F. before
the stacks are weighted, the mass Avill often become highly carbonized,
appealing dark brown, or almost as black as charcoal, but the silage is
sweet and relished by cattle. Sour silage is considered more satisfac-
tory for dairy purposes than sweet silage.

The ])ossibility of i)reserving largo <|uantities of the coarser forage-
plants by this method will undoubtedly prove valuable for extensive
districts in the arid grazing regions. It will not, however, be adapt-

25

able to humid climates. Wherever the rainfall amounts to more than
25 or 30 inches, or where the air is moist through a large i)art of the
year, silos will have to be built. The manufacture of stack silage
opens great possibilities and will enable stockmen to increase the num-
ber of cattle upon the range. If palings are not available for conlining
the silage and making the sides perpendicular, the stack may be
built up in the same way as a haystack. At the close of the operation,
after the forage is well settled and compacted, the looser outside por-
tions may be trimmed off perpendicular with a hay knife and piled on
top of the stack as a thatch.

Corn can not be depended on as a forage plant in semiarid regions.
The best crops, and those which seldom fail, are sorghum, milo maize,
Kafir corn, and Johnson grass, the latter for the richer bottom lands.
Of the first three forage crops, from 10 to 20 tons of the green forage
may be secured per acre, and at least two cuttings, from 4 to 8 tons
each, of the Johnson grass. Two crops of sorghum may often be grown
on the same land in one season. Fodder made from the sorghums is
rather difficult to cure, or, to speak more properly, is difticult to handle
after curing, on account of its bulk and the harshness of the leaves and
stalks. Moreover, in the dry climate of the Southwest much of the best
part of the fodder and leaves is lost in the process of handling, because
becoming so dry and brittle. The stalks are also tougher than corn-
stalks, and there is more waste in feeding.

In the case of Johnson grass there are grave objections to its use for
hay on a large scale, because of its weedy character when introduced
into farm lands. The territory where Johnson grass is the most valu-
able hay grass, comprises the red prairie region, which includes the
headwaters of the principal streams that in their lower courses flow
through the rich farming lauds of eastern and southern Texas. The
seeds of this grass are liable to be washed down from the headwaters
in time of flood, inoculating new fields with this, to the cotton farmer,
undesirable pest. If the Johnson grass is tnrned into stack silage
instead of being made into hay, the danger of spreading a bad weed
will be obviated, because the germinating power of whatever seeds may
be in the stack will be destroyed by the heat generated in the course of
fermentation.

The principle of stack silage is not by any means a new one. The
methods of curing clover and alfalfa in cocks are practically the same, as
are also those of curing green corn and sorghum in shocks. In such
cases fermentation of the ])artially wilted substance takes place, the
difference being that the fodder in shocks ferments at a much lower tem-
perature than in stacks. Thus silage can be made at very much less
expense than hay. Enough has been done by stockmen and feeders to
show that stack silage is not an experiment, but is entirely practical.
It is probable that much may be added to our knowledge, especially in
regard to such details as the best height and width of the stacks and

2(5

ill regard to the time of maturity of the crop from TV^liich tlie silage ia
to be made. It will also liave to be. determined wlietlier the legumi-
nous forage crops, such as alfalfa, soy beans, and cowpeas, can be put up
in the same manner or whether they can be added in alternate layers in
the stack, as is often done in the manufocture of silage in air-tight
silos. The principal caution in putting up such stacks will be to see
that no large cavities are left in the material, for wherever too much air
has access the fermentation is liable to be carried to the putrefactive
stage, following which molds will grow and render it very injurious, if
not actually poisonous. These precautions are less necessary in the
case of Johnson grass or broadcast sorghum, because the mass will be
much more compact.

HAY.

In addition to putting up considerable quantities of stack silage, it
is advisable that cattle owners provide hay, if a suj^ply can be secured
irom natural or artificial meadows on the ranch. Very often stockmen
who have not made this provision have to buy feed during winter,
especially during the heavy snowstorms in the spring before the new
grass has started and after the prairie grasses have either all been
eaten off or have been rotted by rains or melting snows. In such cases
hay often sells from $10 to $20 per ton and is hard to get in time to pre-
vent losses. Prairie hay can be put up at the cost of usually not more
than $1 to $2 per ton, using modern machinery and appliances. With
the large number of kinds of hay grasses to choose from, any rancher
who has fairly good laud has no excuse for not putting up enough hay
to carry his stock at least through the severer storms of the winter.

WATER.

Another precaution that must be taken, if the stock ranges are to be
restored to anything like their former value, is that water must be pro-
vided in .sufficient amount so that cattle will not have to travel long
distances for it in times of severe drought. Nearly the entire western
portion of Texas is underlaid by artesian waters ranging from 150 to
1,500 feet below the surface. Wherever the drainage slopes are not
too precipitous, artificial tanks may be formed across the draws by
building dams, and if the bottom of the tank is carried down to hard-
pan, or is puddled before being filled, a supply sullicient to last through
the dry season may be secured at small expense. Such tanks, or wells,
either artesian, or where the water is lifted by windmill ]tumps, should
be provided at least every 4 miles over the range, so that cattle will
never have to travel more than a couple of miles to water. Where the
wells, water holes, or tanks are 8, 10, or more miles apart, as they very
frequently are on some of the western ranges, cattle greatly overstock
tlie range in the vicinity of the water, especially during midsummer,
while tlie back country is thickly covered with jiood feed. Thus a

27

portion of the range will be overstocked while another j)ortion will be
nnderi^razed. In the one case the grasses are eaten down and trampled
for a few miles back from the water so that it may reqnire several
good seasons to undo the injury done in one bad year. In addition,
the forage on the large area back from the water is entirely lost through
not being grazed. The cost of constructing dams or providing wind-
mills will often be but a small percentage of the loss incurred when no
water is provided. It has been often observed that the period of How
of the rivers in countries wliich have been overgrazed is very much less
than it was formerly. This is because the tramjding of the herds has
compacted the soil, and also because the waters are not retarded from
running off the surface as they would be when the land is covered with
a thick coating of grasses. Hence the drainage of the surplus water
takes place in a very much shorter time. There are many streams and
springs which in former years afforded a continuous supply throughout
the dry season, which now only run during or immediately succeeding
periods of abundant rainfall. Thus less dei)endence is to be placed
upon the streams as a source of stock water. New artificial sources of
supply must be provided.

GRAZING REGIONS IN TEXAS AND NBV7 MEXICO.

Texas may be divided into seven or eight well-defined agricultural
jtrovinces, each differing from the others in the general character of the
soil and amount of rainlall. These differences of soil are mainly due to
difference in geological formation, while the causes of the climatic
variation are the natural phenomena which govern continental condi-
tions, such as altitude, proximity to the Gulf, and presence or absence
of vegetation. The areas or belts where soils and natural conditions
are alike, or have only casual differences, are usually marked by the
growth of certain plants, which form a characteristic, though not always
the most prominent feature, in the grass flora. The region under dis-
cussion may well be divided along these lines and treated by areas.*
These are:

The Coastal Prairies, bounded by a line drawn parallel with the coast
about 70 miles back from the Gulf.

The Cactus Plains, which include all of the region between the
Colorado and Rio Grande from the border of the coastal prairies to the
" rim " of hills that breaks to the northward from San Antonio, just
below the thirtieth parallel of latitude.

The Middle Plain, a low table-land, rather mountainous, extending
from the southern "rim" to the Concho, and from the Colorado to the
Pecos. This is the Edwards Plain of the geologists.

The Granite Region, occupying a very limited area in the center of
the State between the central plain and the red prairies.

* From data supplied by Prof. Robert T. Hill, of the United States Geological
Survey.

28

The Red Prairies, extending- from the Concho to the Red River,
bounded on the east by the black lands and on the west by the Llano
Estacado,

The Staked Plains, or Llano Estacado, a high level table-land which
extends into New Mexico, containing the sources of all the rivers flow-
ing to the eastward.

The Pecos Valley, an elevated valley which has the same soils as the
red prairies, but a much smaller rainfall, so that the conditions are
arid.

Before the ranges were overgrazed the grasses of the red prairies
were largely blue stems or sage grasses {Andropogon), often as high as
a horse's back. After pasturing and subsequent to the trampling and
hardening of the soil, the dog grasses or needle grasses {Aristlda) took
the whole country. After further overstocking and trampling, the
needle grasses were driven out and the mesquite grasses {lUlaria and
Bulbilis) became the most prominent species. The occurrence of any
one of these as the dominant or most conspicuous grass is to some
extent an index of the state of the land and of what stage in over-
stocking and deterioration has been reached.

There is often a succession of dominant grasses in nature through
natural causes, but never to so marked an extent as on the cattle
ranges during the process of deterioration from overgrazing. Thus, the
grasses in any given valley are liable to change in a long series of years
through destruction by wood lice, prairie dogs, by fires, unusually early
or late frosts, or by failure on the part of the i)]ant to ri])en seed.
This latter contingency frequently occurs in the case of the big blue
stem and feather sedge, and j^robably with some other of the Andropo-
gon species. The curly mesquite will stand almost any amount of
drought, trampling, and hard usage, but is easily killed and rotted out
during a wet, cold winter. The drought-resistant needle grass is fre-
quently destroyed by wood lice over considerable areas. This usually
happens in the spring on burned areas after light local showers.
Finally, the entire seed crop may be destroyed by early autumn fires.
Thus it is seen that through some one of many natural causes a species
of grass may be all but exterminated and its place taken by others,
often of less value.

On overstocked lands there is uniformly an alternation of needle grass
and mes(iuite at short intervals, unless the overstocking is carried too
far, when these perennials give way to annuals and worthless weeds.
The carrying capacity then depends almost absolutely on the i>roper
distribution of rainfall through the growing season in order to briug
this transient vegetation to its fullest maturity.

THE COASTAL PRAIRIES.

The low-lying i>rairies along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico con-
stitute a region of very recent geological formation; in fact, so recent

29

that many of the fossils contained in the strata are identical with the
species now living- in the waters of the Gulf The alluvial plain is flat,
swami)y, and poorly drained, and is intersected by numerous sluggish
streams with precipitous banks. The land is well grassed wherever it
has not been overstocked, and the vegetation is very similar to that of
the savannas and coastal plains in the Gulf States.

Along the immediate coast there is usually a sloping beach backed by
a line of not very high nor very broad sand dunes. There are no drift-
ing sand dunes to compare with those along the Atlantic coast except
at intervals opposite the "jiasses" between the coastal barrier islands,
where the winds and tides have free sweep from the ocean. Wlierever
the coast is protected from these by the islands, the only dune is about
100 yards back from high tide, perhaps not more marked than a narrow
ridge, a few feet in height, whose surface is well covered with vegeta-
tion. On the land side of the dune there is usually a lagoon, and back
of this a marsh containing numerous more or less parallel lagoons and
sluggish water courses. This marsh extends from 2 or 3 to sometimes
15 or 20 or more miles back along the entire coast line from the mouth
of the Sabine River to Aransas Pass.

The dominant grass on the beach between the ridge and the water is
usually salt grass {Distichlis Hpicata). On the sand ridge there are Era-
grostis secundijiora^ salt grass, and slender cord grass {Spartina patens).
On the seaward edge of the marsh, which is frequently inundated, the
l^rincipal grass is Monanthochloe littoralis, a rough, wiry species with
extremely short, harsh, and shari^-i^ointed leaves. This could never be
called a turf grass, and yet its interlaced stems form the closest kind of
a mat, extending from 100 yards to a mile or more inland, depending
on the elevation of the land above high tide. Next in the succession
is the bunch salt grass {Spartina junciformis) (fig. 1), which grows in
great tufts 3 to 6 feet across and from L to 1 feet in height. The leaves
of this are evergreen, harsh, and rather stiff, spiny pointed, and so sharp
that they will make a horse's legs sore when he is ridden through or
over it. The leaves are resinous, and will burn at any time during the
year, smouldering along even through a shower of considerable vio-
lence. Between the tufts or tussocks the ground is either bare or
covered with low rushes or other insignificant plants. The salt grass
supplies fully 90 per cent of the vegetation of the marsh, and often
occupies its surface to the almost total exclusion of other sorts.

These salt-grass meadows are well stocked with cattle. Unlike the
salt grasses of the marshes along the Atlantic coast, this can not be
mown for hay on account of its bunchy nature, and hence grazing is
the only practicable method of utilizing the vast amount of forage
produced. The bunch salt-grass marshes will carry from 80 to 120
]3ead of stock cattle to the square mile. It is said to be a fine grass on
^hich to f/roic cattle, but they can not be fattened on it; at least, that
js the. opinion of a stockman iii Brazoria Gounty who has ranged cattle

so

l"'iu. 1.— I5uuili Hall gruBH (iyiiardnajunciformin)

31

ou the marshes for forty-five years. When the stock are nearly
matured they must be takeu to the i)rairies farther iuhiud or shipped
to the fattening jyens.

The only treatment ever given the marsh pastures is to burn them
over at intervals of three or four years. This clears out the dead leaves
and stems that fill the centers of the tussocks and acts as a fertilizer
by adding a top dressing of ashes. Marsh soils are as a rule deficient in
potash, and hence the marsh grasses need all that which is contained
in the ashes. Summer burning should never be practiced on the salt
marshes, because to destroy the
entire i)lant to the roots at the
time it is in its prime is simply
to needhissly sap its vitality;
whereas if the grass is burned
in late winter or early spring-
while it is resting, before the
new growth starts, the burning
over will act as a stimulant
to quicken the growth and in-
crease the amount of vegetation .

The extent of salt, marshes
along the coast between the Sa-
bine Itiver and their southern
terminus amounts to perhaps
1,000 square miles, which at the
estimated grazing capacity as
given above can support yearly
between 80,000 and 120,000head
of cattle.

The best ranches in this sec-
tion of the coastal plain are those
whicli extend far enough back
from the tide water to include
some of the sedge grass jjrai-
ries and wooded bottoms. The
cattle may then be transferred
from one character of pasture

to another with the changing seasons, thus providing both variety of
diet for the growing cattle and also securing that alternate grazing and
resting which is most desirable in the formation of the best pastures.

The open prairies, where they still occur, are very fine grazing lands.
They are covered with a great variety of species, it often being possi-
ble to gather fifty or more different kinds on a single section in one day.
The most conspicuous of these are the sedge grasses: Feather sedge
[Androponoit saceharoide.s), Torrey's sedge (var. iorret/anus) (fig. 2), ami
big blue stem {A. j/rocmvialin). The first of these is very abundant

Fiii.

-Torrey's sedge grass (Andropogon aaccha-
roides turreyanus).

32

aud has caused the stockmen to refer to these meadows as the "sedge-
grass prairies." However conspicuous these grasses may be, they are
not the most abundant. There are a few spots where the sedge grasses
occur so thickly that they make up fully 80 per cent of the vegetation.
But in the majority of the coastal prairie pastures the sedge grasses
do not amount to more than 10 per cent. On prairies at the mouth
of the Brazos River buffalo grass [Bulbilis dactyloidcs) comprises about
60 per cent of the total, while rescue {Broinus unioloides), knot grass
{Paspalum compressuni), Bermuda {Cynod<m dactylon), and smut grass
{Sporoholus indicus) together amount to about 25 per cent. The remain-
ing 15 per cent consists of from thirty to fifty species which occur as
scattered individuals. The land is here more suited to agriculture
than to stock raising. The rainfall is so heavy that the autumnal and
winter grasses are frequently rotted instead of curing into hay on their
own roots, so that it is necessary to jirovide winter feed.

The carrying capacity of the coastal prairies is probably on the whole
about tlie same as that of the salt marshes, though they deteriorate
from overgrazing, not because the soils become worn out, but through
influx of weeds and sour grasses which gradually displace the better
ones.

Farther down the coast, in Victoria, Calhoun, and Jackson counties,
the three sedge grasses mentioned above constitute 40 per cent of the
vegetation. Bearded mesquite {Stipa leucotricha) makes up fully 25
per cent, while honey dew {Paspalum pUcatulum) amounts to 20 per cent.
The other 15 per cent is made up as before of a great variety of forms,
including knot grass, broad-leafed B^vrnvidm [Paspalum distichum), wild
barley [Hordeum pusillum), wild millets {Chaetochloa), switch grass,
white grama, Colorado grass {Panicttm texanum), and a score of others,
all in great profusion of form, but no one species supplying any very
large portion of the forage.

The grasses of the wooded bottoms are neither abundant nor nutri-
tious, so that their grazing capacity seldom amounts to more than one-
fourth as much as that of the open prairies. The dominant, and at the
same time the most valuable, species is elm grass {Panicum prostratum).
With this there occur Terrell grass [Elymns virginicus), wild timothy
( Phalaris am/usta), cotton-top {Panicum lachnanthum ), and others. Here
also in the dense shade occur numerous wild beans and what stockmen
call a wild four-leaf clover {Marsilia macropoda), one of the fernworts,
a relative of the Australian " Nardoo," which is also regarded as of some
value as forage.

Between Kockportand the southern shore of Corpus Christi Bay the
soil is black "hog-wallow" prairie extending to the beach, with no
marsh intervening. Salt-water cord grass {Spartina striata) replaces
bunch salt grass to a considerable extent. It grows as well between
high and low tide as farther back on the landward side of the marshes,
and is here a rapid land builder, continually advancing, forming little
peninsulas which stretch out into the sea aud cause shallows to lorm

33

where driftwood and sediment are caught. The shore line is thus
encroaching upon the waters of the bays. If this grass coukl be util-
ized artiticially in the same way, a broad beach could be rapidly formed
along the entire coast wherever there are existing shallows.

THE CACTUS PLAINS.

The black land coastal prairies end a few miles below Corpus Christi,
where the transition between the "hog- wallows'' and the "sands" is
quite sharply marked. The southern Buffalo grass [Bulbilis) is the
most common ijrairie grass, pro-
ducing in many places fully 75 per
cent of the forage. Bermuda grass
is abundant along the streams and
on the borders of tanks and ponds.
The bur-grass {Cenchrvs trihuloi-
(les) (fig. 3) is very plentiful, and is
considered valuable up to the time
when the burs are ripe. After that
it is a great pest. Were it not for
the burs this would be one of the
best of the wild grasses, because it
is one of the earliest to com-
mence growth in spring and is
also quite hardy. Cattle relish
the herbage, usually eating it down
closely, even before the surround-
ing taller grasses are touched.
Bur-grass is now widely distrib-
uted and probably occurs in every
county in Texas and jSI e w Mexico
where sheep are grazed, the burs
being widely disseminated in the
fleeces of these animals. It is
probable that its objectionable
qualities as a weed quite outweigh
its value for early spring feed.

Dr. De Eyee, of Corpus Cbristi, states that the country between there
and the Eio Grande was entirely open thirty years ago, sparsely grassed,
and with only here and there a bunch of mesquite beans. is"ow all of
the open spaces have been filled with thorn-thickets, often impenetrable
to horsemen. In parts of Starr, Hidalgo, and Cameron counties the
loose sands which comprise the surface soil are underlaid by fresh water
at a depth of from 2 to 10 feet. The grasses here are mainly such as
grow in bunches, like the needle grasses and bearded mesquites.

There is a low ridge or watershed parallel with the Rio Grande
about 20 miles east of Laredo. From this ridge the land slopes both
ways, forming a gradual descent to the east and a more abrupt one to
13475— No. 16 3

FiQ. 3. — Bur-gras3 (Cenchrus iribuloides) .

34

tlie south aud west. The east slope consists of a broad border of black
alluvial soil along the river, then a strip of sauds 60 miles wide, aud
then black ''hog wallow'" prairie on the northern edge of the sands.
Each of these soil formations has its peculiar grasses. At San Diego,
which is on the western border of the arable soil, the dominant species
are seed mesquite {Boutcloua texana) (fig. 4) and two gramas, B. trijida
and B. hromoides. The occurrence of the gramas as the dominant spe-
cies seems always to mark the transition from arable to pasture lands.
Proceeding toward Laredo on the line of the Mexican National Eailroad,

the soil changes abruptly from
gray-black to brick-red, and soon
becomes almost pure sand. On
these sands, as on the sands of
Cameron County, the vegetation
is largel}" bunch grass. There
is still an open strip about 35
miles wide near Hebronville, but
it is only a question of a few years
before the brush and cactus will
have advanced from both direc-
tions to take complete possession
of it.

The valley of the Rio Grande
is arid, receiving only a small
amount of rainfall, poorly dis-
tributed, throughout the year.
The soil is shallow, and sterile
because of an insufficient supply
of moisture. The vegetation con-
sistsofdensechaparral, with close
thickets of various kinds of cac-
tus, and the grasses are few and
scattering. There is almost no
water back from the river, and
thebrackish or salty underground
flow lies from 200 to 300 feet be-
low the surface. The carrying
capacity of thechaparral covered
valley lands is never more than
30 Lead to the square mile. Grasses exist so sparsely that the destruc-
tion of brush and cactus bj^ fire is almost out of the question, and could
only be accomplished by sacrificing the grass accumulation of several
years. The only i)racticable method of improving the conditions would
be the introduction of forage shrubs from similar arid regions abroad,
the construction of reservoirs or tanks to catch and hold the storm waters
which descend as torrential rains, and the irrigation of the narrow val-

FlG. 4.— Seed mesquite {Boutelaua texana).

35

ley. It is possible that tlie tlioruless Iiidiaii-fig cactus of Algiers aud
soutbern France could be introduced with profit into the Rio Grande
Valley. A similar cactus is grown in the vicinity of Monterey, Mexico,
and has been cultivated at Corpus Christi by Dr. William De Ryee and
at Santa Gertrudes by Mr. R. J. Kleberg, However, this pear cactus
is not frost-proof, like the native species. Dr. De Ryee states that the
spines may bo eliminated from the common species by pursuing the
same course of treatment as that used in the production of the spine-
less form by the Mexican gardeners, who grow it for its superior fruit
and not for its excellence as a forage plant. A young shoot or joint of
the flattened stem taken before the spines are fully formed is set out in
fertile soil. As soon as this has taken root and started to grow, a
young cutting from the i)lant is treated in the same way, and so on,
continuing for two or three seasons, always planting in rich and well-
watered soil. By the third or fourth year the cactus will usually have
lost all of its spines, so that there is nothing to prevent its being eaten
by cattle. This Mexican cactus might be acclimated by the method of
gradual transference each year a little farther north, and also by selec-
tion of the most hardy stocks; or, better, the same method of cultivation
and improvement might be applied to cuttings of the superabundant
Texan prickly ])ear with the view of securing an unarmed form of it for
propagation in the arid portions of the State. The experiments wonld
necessarily last through a long term of years, because the same care would
be required in selecting hardy and drought-resistant spineless forms
as in coaxing the plant to repress its spines. If the smooth form is
transferred abruptly back to normal conditions of sterile soil and
lack of moisture, the spines at once reappear, while both stem and fruit
lose whatever points of excellence they may have acquired through
cultivation. The experiment would have to be continued long enough
for the acquired characters to become in some measure fixed. Such an
improvement through cultivation would elevate the pear cactus to the
rank of the cultivated plants. The rancher who wished to avail him-
self of it would have to grow the spineless forms on good rich soil, and
sow the seed over the ranges at intervals of a few years. There would
certainly be a return to the normal form in time, just as there is in the
case of the carrot, or of the red pepper grown first on cultivated soils
aud then allowed to run wild, but if the spineless habit could become
sufficiently fixed as a result of growth under improved environment
the reappearance of sharp spines when the plant is grown on poor soil
might be retarded several years. Such experiments ought to be under-
taken, for if thornless cactus of some forage value could be grown in the
place of the inedible wild varieties it would prove of immense pecuniary
advantage to the stockmen of this portion of the State. A spineless
form of the common prickly i)ear of India ( Opuntia dillenii) is there used
for forage, and it is reported that good silage has been made from a
mixture of cactus and grass placed in the silo in alternating layers. A

36

spineless pear cactus also occurs- in South Africa, and is there used as
forage.

Proceeding northward from Laredo the character of the land remains
much the same for 50 miles, improving very gradually until the valley
of the Nueces is reached. From the Nueces to the Guadalupe the soils
are mainly rich black or chocolate loams, "well grassed with an abun-
dance of species, the curly mesquite predominating on the uplands, and

Bermuda along tbe streams.
The carrying capacity is
high, ranging from 55 to 70
head per square mile, and,
while held to have decreased
from one-fourth to two- fifths
on account of overstocking
during droughts, the quality
is now considered to be stead •
ily improviug. The chief
means of betterment of the
forage conditions here is the
cultivation of hay and coarse
forage such as sorgbum, Col-
orado grass, cowpeas, alfalfa,
and milo maize. Stack silage
can also be used to advan-
tage with cotton-seed hulls
and meal for winter feeding.

THE MIDDLE PLAINS.

The region 100 miles west
and 150 miles northwest
from Bexar County is all
broken country, with Hinty
limestone outcrops on lower
slopes of the water sheds.
The soils are i)atchy — black
prairie loams on the back-
bone of the ridges, with
gray, red, brown, chocolate,
and black soils in the valleys and on the lower slopes. There are in parts
of this region numerous and extensive gravel deposits of apparently
lacustrine origin. Much of the section is quite mountainous. The rain-
fall is rather abundant, coming mostly during the spring and early sum-
mer months, but is not entirely limited to any one season, so that the
conditions are excellent from the stockman's standpoint. This is a tran-
sition area as regards the grass flora. The striking grasses of the river
valleys are those which thrive in the humid eastern portion of the State,
including Llmnodca, rescue grass (fig. 5), satin grasvses [Muhlcnheryia)^

Fig. 5.— Rescue grass (Bromue unioloidet) .

Uniola latlfolia, Melica mutica, wild rye aud Terrell grass. The grasses
of the uplands are the same as those of the prairies. The needle grasses
compose 25 per cent of the total; seed mesquite aud the two curly mes-
quites each 10 per cent, aud side-oats grama, feather sedge, switch
grass, wild millet, windmill grass, and species of Triodia, Uragrostis,
and Siwroholus together supplying the remainder.

THE GEANITE REGION.

In the mountainous granitic area of Burnet, Llano, and Gillespie
couuties there are fewer turf- forming grasses and fewer well grassed pas-
tures than in almost any other portion of the State. Bur grass is omni-
present, and the other species are in the main those of central Texas.
A noticeable feature is the great abundance of leguminous plants.
Vetches {Vicia and Lathyrm) and wild beans {Fhaseohis) occur along
every stream and in the scrub-oak copses. The buffalo peas {Lupinus
and Astragalus) give color to the landscape in early spring, while in
April the Texan pea {Astragalus nuttallianus) forms a thick growth over
square miles of the granitic ridges. This area was originally more or
less thickly covered with oak forest, and is now very brushy. The
winter and spring pasturage is as good as anywhere in the State.
The addition of good grasses to supplement the native legumes and
supply summer and autumn feed would make this part of Texas the
best grazing ground in the State, for there is plenty of water and good
shelter at all seasons of the year. In tiuies of drought the oak scrub
is eaten by cattle and will keep them alive until the rains come. The
mesquite beans are valuable at such times, as is also the mistletoe, which
is parasitic on them. Mistletoe is said to be poisonous when fed to very
young stock, and liable to cause abortion among cows, especially if
eaten when other feed is scarce. The average carrying capacity of this
mountainous area is about 40 or 50 head of cattle per square mile.
The range could be improved by introducing upland alfalfa, Japan
clover, Bokhara clover, and legumes adapted to rocky soils, and by
devoting a larger acreage of the better valley lands to the cultivation
of sorghum and Kafir corn or milo maize. In this aud other portions
of the State the unrestricted pasturing of hogs has been a potent factor
in the destruction of the grasses. They not only disseminate seeds of
the prickly pear more rapidly than would be the case were they kept
within bounds, but they consume seeds, roots, and tubers of a variety
of valuable plants to such an extent that many of the best are all but
exterminated.

THE RED PRAIRIES.

To the northward of the middle plain and granitic area there lies a
prairie region whicli slopes gently downward from the eastern edge of
the Staked riains, by a succession of steppes, to about the ninety-eighth
meridian. This prairie region ranges from 1,200 to 3,000 feet in alti-
tude aud, while it is intercepted in the southern portion by a number of

38

low mountainous ridges lying between the rivers, the bulk of the lands
are level or gently rolling.

The entire region lying north of the Colorado and Concho rivers is
well grassed and watered and is not overrun to such an extent by the
mesquite beau and prickly pear as are the ranges farther to the south-
ward. The chief pest and the one which causes the greatest destruc.
tion of grasses is the prairie dog, which, according to stockmen, is
rapidly increasing in numbers, so that in some places the carrying
capacity has diminished fully 50 per cent within less than ten years

from this cause alone. This
portion of the State, to-
gether with the Staked
Plains, was formerly the
winter feeding ground of a
large part of the great south-
ern herd of buffalo, and it is
the portion which benefited
most during the ten years
immediately succeeding the
destruction of the buffalo.
The rainfall at Abilene,
which may betaken asacen-
tral point from east to west,
averages about 27 inches
per year, although there
has been a variation of from
11 to 35 inches during a
series of twenty-live years.
The rainfall of the region
as a whole is' probably be-
tween 20 and 30 inches,
placing it within the cate-
gory of semiarid sections.
During average years cere-
als and cotton may be suc-
cessfully grown, but the
whole area is liable to suffer from severe droughts in off years, during
which no dependence can be placed ui)on any of the cultivated crops.
Such semiarid countries, no matter where they exist, can best be utilized
in pasturing live stock, and the live-stock interests will always be the
most important ones, even thongh certain of the more fertile valleys are
converted into farm lands. The carrying capacity of the land here was
formerly ecjual to the best. It is estimated that in IbSO the average for
this whole region could not have been much loss than 100 head per square
mile, while picked sections would carry 320 head. Now it has been
reduced to between 40 and 50 head, a fall of fully 50 per cent in the
producing value of the land in the course of less than twenty years.

Fig. 6.— Needle grass {Aristida fasciculata) .

39

The predominating grasses are tbe needle grasses {Aristida fasci-
culata and A. coarctata) which form fully 50 ])er cent of the entire
grass vegetation, and more thaii that on the pastures which have been
overgrazed. Stockmen consider the needle grass most nutritious and
valuable, although many of the closely related species that occur in
the Gulf States are there known as the much despised poverty grasses,
held to be characteristic of the poorest land and all but worthless for
pasturage. However, there is no doubt that here the needle grasses
hold a position which could not be tilled by anything else. They are
thelirstto start growth in the spring,
and after the sharp bearded seeds
have fallen in autumn, cattle and
sheep greatly relish the stems and
leaves. The stalks remain green
at the base long after the curly
mesquite has become brown and
dry. The bearded seeds undoubt-
edly cause some inconvenience to
animals, esi)ecially to sheep. Losses
among lambs are frequently re-
ported through the needle-grass
seeds piercing their skins or perfo-
rating their intestines. But aside
from such tritling losses the fact re-
mains that there is no grass which
will spread so rapidly if only given
a chance to ripen its seeds, as the
three long beards attached to each
enable it to be readily blown about
by the winds. When the sharp point
catches in loose earth the drying and
wetting of the beards causes theseed
to bore into the soil, burying it deep
enough to insure germination.
Wherever there is a ridge or mound
of bare earth, or a furrow, the needle-
grass seedlings grow abundantly.

The black grama {Eilaria mutica) (fig. 7) occurs quite abundantly in
some of the valley pastures. It was formerly much more plentiful. It
is one of the best of the winter grasses. Cattle do not seem to relish
it in summer as long as there are tenderer annual grasses in abun-
dance. Its stems and lower leaves remain green long after the first
frost, and the whole plant cures on its own roots, forming first-class
natural hay which is much relished in winter. Black grama hay was
highly valued in the early days, but it is hardly ever found now suffi-
ciently abundant to mow. The river valleys of this region are the

Fig. 7.— Black grama (Hilaria mutica).

40

origiual liome of the Colorado grass or Texan millet [Panicum texanum)^
a leafy annual, whose merits as a hay grass have led to its becoming
widely eultiv^ated. Everlasting grass {Eriochloa annulata) and an
Indian millet [PanicHm cUiatissimum) also grow along the river bottoms
and supply leafy herbage that is greatly relished by cattle.

The curly mesquite grasses [Hilaria cenchroidcs (fig. 8) and BuIbiUs
dactyloirles) are omnipresent. They monopolize a large share of the
range, supjilying sometimes as much as 80 per cent of all the vege-
tation. Their long, creeping run-
ners and short, crisp leaves fitrm
a matted sward that improves
under an amount of abuse and
hard usage that would kill out
less hardy grasses.

The blue grama [Bouieloua oli-
gostachyd) and side-oats grama {B.
ctirtipen(hda) are abundant, form-
ing a valuable factor of the range
pasturage. The chief needs of the
lied Prairie region are better win-
ter and early spring forage. The
former may be supi)lied by putting
up fodder, hay, or stack silage.

To supply spring grazing the
tallow weed {Acfhiella lineari-
folia) should be cultivated. This
plant belongs to the tansy family.
It is widely distributed in Texas
and the Southwest, clothing the
l)rairies Avith its ])right yellow
flowers and strap-shai)ed leaves
long before any of the grasses
have commenced to grow. Cattle
and sheei) '^^'^^ equally fond of it
and its feeding value may be
Judged from the common name
which it bears among stockmen.
It is said that there is no wild forage jdant which M'ill jiut so much fat
on an animal in so short a time. The tallow weed is truly a blessing
to stock and stockmen, whose only criticism in regard to it is tiiat
there is not enough of it.

Fio. 8. — Curly mesquite (Ililaria ccnchroules)

THE STAKED PLAINS.

Tlie Llano Estacado or Staked Plains consist of an oblong ])lateau hav-
ing a greatest width of about 180 miles from east to west, with a length
of about 225 miles from north to south. This tableland lies approxi-

41

mately between the one hundred and first and one hundred and fourth
degrees of longitude and between the tliirty-second and thirty-tifth par-
allels of latitude. The altitude ranges from 3,500 to 4,500 feet, being
greatest along the western border in IS'ew Mexico, thence sloping uni-
formly toward the southeast. The plains proper contain about 35,000
square miles in Texas and New Mexico. The surface is a succession of
gently rolling hills with long ridges and valleys, the ascents being so
gradual that they are hardly noticeable. The soils are mainly choco-
late or reddish loams. Well water can be obtained almost anywhere
within moderate depths from the surface. The northwestern border of
the Staked Phiins is more or less channeled with deep "arroyos" or
canyons. The upper valleys of the Salt and South Forks of the Brazos
Kiver and of the Ked Eiver are very wide, showing that they formerly
carried much more water than during recent years. The southern half
is more sandy than the northern, with bare sand hills in Cochran,
Terry, Yoakum, Gaines, and Anderson counties, Tex., and in eastern
Chaves and Eddy counties, IST. Mex. There are numerous brackish or
saline lakes at about the geographical center of the plains, occurring
through Gaines, Lynn, Terry, Hockley, Land), and Bailey counties, Tex.
The entire region, with the possible exception of the sand hills, is admi-
rably adapted for stock raising. It is well grassed with an abundance
of species, and, while not watered by flowing streams as are the lower
l)rairies bordering the Plains on either side, yet the confignration of the
underlying strata is such that, as previously stated, an abundance of
sweet water for stock ])urposes can be secured almost anywhere. The
geological formation indicates that this entire region was formerly the
bed of a great inland lake, and since its elevation in recent geologic
times it has lost less by erosion and its character has undergone less
change than the better-drained and better- watered prairies to the east-
ward. The soils are exceedingly rich, so that in good seasons or wher-
ever water is near enough to the surface to be cheaply and abundantly
raised by means of windmills for use in irrigation large crops of cereals,
vegetables, fruits, and forage plants can be grown; but in ordinary
seasons, or in the absence of water within moderate distance below the
surface, the amount of moisture retained by the surface soils is not
sufficient for the purposes of agriculture. The native grasses grow
luxuriantly. The species are mostly identical with those which thrive
on the high plains of western Kansas and Nebraska, consisting of wheat
grass {A(jropyron spieatum)^ little blue stem {Andropogon scoparins)^
side oats grama {Boutelona curtipendula), blue grama (Z>. olii/ostachya),
and buffalo grass {Bulbilis daetyloides). These species supply the
larger part of the grazing, especially in the northern portion of the
Plains. On the sandy lands in the southern half of the Plains, feather
sedge {Andropogon saccharoides) coming up from the prairies of south-
ern Texas displaces tlie little blue stem, and a number of other grasses
identical with those of the Pecos Valley are abundant, including the

42

two species of black grama {Bouteloua eriopoda and Hilaria mutica),
aud the southwestern species of Sporoholus, Muhlenheryia, Aristida, and
Panicum. In the southern portion of the Phiins the number of species
of granias {Bouteloua) increases aud they, together with iZiiarm mutica,
form the bulk of the grass vegetation. The gramas of this region are
Bouteloua polystachya, B. oliyostachya, B. eriopoda, B. vestit((, B. curti-
pendula^ B. hirsuta, and B. ramosa. The number of species of Sporoho-
lus also increases, and Aristida arizonica, A. micrantka, and A. bromoides
take the place of the common dog-towu needle grass {A. fasciculata) of
the i)rairies. Because of the absence of running streams and surface
water for stock purposes, the Staked Plains have been less severely
overgrazed than the lower plains and prairies surrounding them. Now,
however, since it is found that water is fairly abundant aud within reach
of windmill power, the land is being rapidly stocked. The grazing
capacity is higher than m many other portions of the range country
which have been stocked for a much longer period.

The best means of improving the range on the Staked Plains are,
first, to provide stock water at intervals not greater than 4 or 5 miles
apart, so that cattle will not have to travel more than 2h miles in any
direction; second, to provide winter shelter or protection from the
storms which have uninterrupted sweep over this table-land during the
winter months; and, third, to provide sufficient hay or coarse fodder to
feed the cattle during the heavy storms.

On almost every ranch there will be found old lake beds, sinks, or
shallow valleys where the soil contains enough moisture within reach
of the surface to be readily available to the roots of cultivated i)lants.
On such lands sorghum, Kafir corn, milo maize, the millets, and iu
especially favored localities alfalfa, and perhaps the soy bean, can be
grown, and enough hay saved to provide against periods of shortage
either during winter or in time of drought.

The carrying capacity of the Plains ranges from 40 to G4 head per
square mile. Assuming the preposterously low figure of 30 head per
square mile as the average annual grazing capacity, more than 1,000,000
head of cattle can be pastured. The capacity for improvement here is
as great as in any other part of the Southwest, so that with a Judicious
use of the natural resources the number can easily be doubled or
trebled within the next ten years.

THE PECOS VALLEY.

The Pecos Vallc}' in New .Alexico, extending almost due north and
soutli, from about the thirty-fourth parallel to the southern border of
the State, was formerly very well grassed. All of the living tribu-
taries of the Pecos below Fort Sumner enter it from the west. For
fully 200 miles below this ])oint there is no stream of any importance
which drains into the Pecos Jtiver from the direction of the Staked
Plains. The lauds iu the valley are exceptionally well located lor culti-

43

vation under irrigation, and several hundred thousand acres are under
ditch, Avhile it is estimated that 1,000,000 acres are capable of being
thus improved.

The principal grasses in the Pecos Valley are salt grass [Dis-
tichlis spicaia), in the alkali spots along the lowest portion of the
valley, saccaton {Sporoholus icrighfii), wild rye {Elymns canadensis),
western wheat grass [Afjropiiron spicatum), and alkali grass {Sporobo-
lus airoides). Back from the
immediate river valley on the
richer bottom lamls blue grama
{Bouteloua oligostachya) grows
sometimes almost pure, or inter-
miugled with woolly foot {B.
eriopoda) (fig. 9), and black
grama {Hilaria mutica). In the
northern j)ortiou of the valley
the grasses are practically iden-
tical with those of the northern
half of the Staked Plains. The
gramas are the most abundant,
supplying fully 80 per cent of
the entire forage of the ranges,
the balance being furnished by
perhaps twenty- five or thirty
species. The carrying capacity
of the ranges in the Pecos Val-
ley varies more widely than in
any region in Texas, because
of the unrestricted grazing of
cattle and sheep on the public
lands. In dry years there are
often areas where 60 acres would
hardly support 1 cow, while in
good seasons the same lands
if undergrazed in the droughty
seasons will support from 40
to 60 head to the square mile. -w,r- q w n <• *,d .?

y ii*ivy tiiii^j. ^ [^j g — \\ oolly-foot (Bouteloua eriopoda).

RELATION OP LAND LAWS TO RANGE IMPROVEMENT.

The range lands in Xew Mexico, with the exception of frontages
along streams, sections, or quarter sections containing springs and
land which may be artificially watered by shallow artesian wells, are
still owned by the Federal Government, 69 per cent of the territory
being Government land, and 58 per cent is classed as grazing lands,
amounting to 45,000,000 acres. Texas having been independent pre-

44

vious to its annexation to the United States contains no public laud
other than that belonging- to the State, and the use of pasture lands
within its borders is regulated entirely by State land laws. With the
exception of California it is the only one of the Western States where
the ownership of the ranges does not lie entirely in the National Gov-
ernment. The only way in which the noninineral lands can be filed
upon is either under the right of preemption, under timber claim laws,
desert land laws, or those relating to irrigated lands. There is no sys-
tem for disposing of areas unsuited for agriculture other than under
some one of these laws, and the result is that the grazing lands are
held as commons open to any stockman who can ruu his cattle upon
them. There is no law ivliich recognizes the existence of pasture lands or
in any n- ay provides for their management and disposal.

The problem of range improvement in Xew Mexico, and in every one
of the Western States and Territories where there are still large
bodies of Government lauds, is not wholly the introduction of new and
better grasses nor the cultivation of better forage crops. The first and
foremost necessity, if the extravagant waste of the public domain is to
be prevented, is to devise some system by which grazing lands can be
placed in a class separate from agricultural lands, and under which
property rights in lands now free to everyone may be assumed by indi-
vidual stockmen.* It has been the experience in all pastoral countries
that proper care and conservation of the forage resources can only
be secured and will only be practiced where the tenure of the land is
sure. The necessary fixity of tenure might be legally provided for by
long-term leases directly from the General Government at a nominal
rental per acre.

As it is at present, xhe value of the grazing on the public lands
depends almost entirely upon such matters as seasonal rainfall and
accessibility. The winter of 1896-97 was accompanied by exceptionally
heavy rainfall over almost the entire southern and eastern portion of
New Mexico. This combined with the extraordinarj^ shortage of cattle
on the ranges permitted the rapid develo])ment of the range grasses,
so that during 1897-98 the snpply of feed was unusually large;
and, Avhereas the sonthern ])()rtion of the valley not having received
any more than the normal i)recii)itation, would not carry in the spring
of 1897 more than 10 to 20 head per square mile, the upper portion of
the valley at the same period was covered with grasses and would have
carried at least 50 head to the mile on almost any i)ortion of it.

Aside from the effect of overgrazing on the lands themselves and on
the natural grasses with which they are covered, it is well to note that
millions of cattle .and sheep are grazed on free lands in every Western
State and Territory. These lands contribute no taxes for the support
of the State governments. The cattle when marketed may be sold at a
much lower figure than those raised on taxed lands owned bj'^ the-stock

" F. V. Covillc, in Forum, Septomber, 1898.

45

grower and still make a profit. It is not fair to the people who are
compelled to bear the expenses of local government for large untaxed
areas, nor on the other hand to the cattle men and woolgrowers of the
East whose products come into competition with those grown almost
without expense on free Government lands. The policy which governed
the settlement of the prairie States might well be modified to meet
the demands of the stock raisers, especially as a very large percentage
of the Government land now remaining is not agricultural and can not
be made so by irrigation. The best policy is that which will the best
promote permanent settlement. It is necessary that timely action shall
be taken to open up the public lands for settlement in tracts extensive
enough to encourage men to build ranches and make permanent improve-
ments upon them. The continued existence of great bodies of free lands
covered with free grass is demoralizing to all those who take advantage
of the opportunities presented thereby. As suggested above, probably
the most feasible plan would be to provide for long-term leases of the
public lauds for grazing purposes.

BENEFITS OF IMPROVING THE RANGES.

The number of cattle owned in the State of Texas on January 1,
1899, was estimated at 4,533,897 head, valued at $7G,6G5,937. At the
same time there were 2,513,917 head of sheep, valued at $4,448,039,
and 1,137,015 horses, valued at $20,088,788. The total value of
sheep, horses, and cattle, exclusive of milch cows, at that date was
$101,202,764. Nearly all of the sheep and a majority of the cattle
and horses were grazed or fed within the territory included in this
report. It can be safely taken as correct that 75 per cent of the
8,215,000 of live stock of these three classes is pastured on an area of
less than 200,000 square miles, or, in round numbers, about six and
one-fifth million head of stock are pastured on one hundred and thirty
million acres of land. iSTow, if by any of the methods which have been
suggested here, or by any treatment which may be devised, the carrying
capacity of these arid land pastures could be improved and increased
even to the extent of 25 per cent, it would mean an increase in taxable
values of the State of at least $25,000,000. It is the opinion of a majority
of stockmen who have raised cattle and sheep in Texas and Kew Mexico
during the last twenty-five years that there has been a marked decrease
in the amount and value of the natural forage, resulting in a proportional
decrease in the number of cattle grazed. As has been stated above, an
average of decrease taken from estimates made by 300 stock owners in
Texas in 1897 was about 40 per cent. There is no doubt whatever in
the minds of men who have studied the capabilities of the Texas soils
that the lauds themselves are nearly as fertile as they ever were. In
fact, it is a general law that the lauds in exclusively pastoral countries
are continually improving in fertility as opposed to lands devoted to
the cultivation of cereal and staple crops, because little of the essen-

46

tial mineral ingredients are removed, while the organic matter in the
soils is steadily increased. Fortj^ per cent of increase over present
capacities is not an improbable one, and there are many of the more
sangnine stockmen Avho believe that the grazing capacity of large areas
can be increased 100 per cent by undertaking proper methods of treat-
ment. Such improvement will undoubtedly be slow, but the results
will justify the eftort.

INDEX.

I'age.

Alfalfa 36

Alkali grass 43

Bailey, wild 32

Beans, mesquit 18, 33

wild 32,37

Bermuda grass t 32

broad-leafed 32

Blue-stem, big 19,28.31

little 41

Buffalo grass 32,33,41

Buuch salt-grass 29

Bur grass 33,37

Cat's claw 19

Cbaparral 16

Clover, Bokhara 37

four-leafed 32

Japan 37

Colorado grass 32, 36, 40

Cord-grass, salt-water 32

slender 32

Cotion-top 32

Cowpeas 19

Curraut, wild 19

Elm grass 32

Everlasting grass 40

Forage shrubs 34

Grama, black 19, 34, 39, 42, 43

blue 40,41,43

side-oats 37, 40, 41

six-weeks 13

Granite region 27

Hard grass 15

Honey-dew 32

Indian fig cactus 35

Johnson grass 25

Knot-grass 32

Kafir corn 37

Llano Estacado 28

Mesquit, bearded 28, 32

Page.

Mesquit, curly 15, 28, 37, 40

seed 34, 37

Millet, Indian 40

Texan 40

wild 32,37

Milo maize 36, 37

Mistletoe 37

Nardoo 32

Needle grass 15 19.37,38,39,42

Oats, scrub 37

woolly 15

Pea, buffalo 37

Texan 37

Pecoa Valley 28,42

Plains, cactus 27

middle 27

Staked 28,40

Prairies, coastal 27

red 28

Prickly pear 15,19

Kescue 32, 3(?

Rye, wild 37,43

Satin grass 36

Sedge grass 28, 31, 32

feather 31,37,41

Torrey s 31

Smut grass 32

Sorghum 24,36,37

Stack ensilage 23, 36

Staked Plains 28, 40

Switch grass 37

Tallow weed 40

Terrell grass 32, 37

Timothy, wild 32

Vetches 37

Wheat-grass 41

western 43

Windmill grass 37

Woolly-foot 43

47

ro^^vvseleJ-.s^e ^o,Sf

Bulletin No. 1 7. (Agros. 40.)

U. S, DEPAETMENT OP AGEICULTUEE.

DIVISION OF A(;UOSTOLOGT.

[Grass and Forage Plant Investigations.]

AMERICAN &RA.S8ES-I1

( ILI^XJSXR^^TED.j

BY

iF. L.^i^:M:soisr-sci?,iB:isrEE,,

AGROSTOLOGIST.

■VTASHrN'GTOX:

GOVERXMENT PRIXTINO OFFICE.

1899.

LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL.

IT. S. Department of Agriculture,

Division of Agrostology,
Washington, T>. C, April 8, 1899.

Sir : I liave the honor to transmit herewith the manu-
scrii)t and illustrations for "American Grasses — II," and
recommend its publication as Bulletin No. 17 of this
Division. "American Grasses — I" was published as
Bulletin No. 7, and contained illustrations of 302 species.
In this second part 325 additional species are described
and illustrated, making a total ot G27 sp<^cies. Many of
our grasses are here illustrated for the first time, and
as a whole it is believed that the work will be helpful
to students of grasses in determining the species of this
most important family of plants. In the preparation of
this part more attention has been given to synonymy
aud to the citation of authorities, and the descriptions
have been extended in order to facilitate identification.

Of the species now illustrated, 19 may be regarded as
characteristic of the Atlantic Coast region, 83 to the
region of the Gulf of Mexico, 92 to the Southwest, in-
cluding the States of Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and
southern California, 74 to the States of California, Ore-
gon, and Washington, aud 61 to the Kocky Mountain
region, of which 19 may be regarded as more properly
the prairie species of that region. The distribution of
some of the si^ecies is very limited, while that of others

may extend tlirougUoiit all the States and even to other
countries.

The genus Blepharoneuron Nash is here recognized,
while Stapfia Davy is referred to AnthochJoa Xees. A
few species are here published for the first time, and a
number of those recently described as new, particularly
of the genus Panicum, are included more for the pur-
pose of calling attention to them than as an expression
of tlie acceptance of their validity. In the two parts
eighty-seven species of Panicum are illustrated, many
of them by drawings made from type specimens.

For information concerning the forage or other
economic values of the species described, reference is
made to previously published bulletins of the Division,
especially to Bulletin No. 14. The illustrations are of
the same character as in American Grasses— I (Bul-
letin No. 7), and have been executed by the same artists.
Kespectfully,

F. Lamson-Scribner,

Ayrostoloijisf.

Hou. James Wilson,

Secretary of Agriculture.

ameeica:^ grasses-ii.

( I LL,L STRATED . )

BY F. LAMSON-SCEIBNER.

METEIO MEASUREMENTS AND THEIR
ENGLISH EQUIVALENTS.

The metric system adopted in this bulletin, as in
No. 7, is now quite generally employed in botanical and
other scientific publications. For those unfamiliar with
this system the following expression of equivalents may
be useful :

1 millimetre (1 mm.) = «iie twenty-fifth of an inch — exactly
0.0394 inch.

1 ceutinietre (1 cm.)=nearly one-half of au inch ; 10 cm. = about
4 inches.

1 decimetre (1 dm. ) = about 4 inches, or 3 dm. = 1 foot.

1 mitre (1 m.) =ab.)ut 3 feet 3f inches— exactly 39.37079 inches.
6

Fig. 303. Imperata brasiliensis Triu. in M^m. Acad. Potersb.
VI, 2 : 331 (/. caudata Chapm. Fl. S. St. 668, not Trin.). Brazil-
ian Blady-grass.— A rather slender, erect perennial, 3 to 7 dm.
high, Avith narrow, white-hairy panicles, 6 to 12 cm. long, and
linear-lanceolate leaves, 10 to 30 cm. long. Spikelets linear, about
4 mm. long, the onter glumes (b and c) clothed with long hairs
from the base to near the middle.— Rich, dry soil, .Sonthern
Florida. [Mexico and South America.] May.

8

Fig. 304. Erianthusalopecuroides (L.) Nash in Britt. & Browu,
111. Flor., 1: 98, not Ell. (A', conioriii-s Ell. Sk. Bot. S. Car. & Ga.
1, 40. E. saccharoides contortus Hack.) Spikal-awned Plumk-
GHAss.— A stout, erect pereiniial, 2 to 3 in. high, -with long leaves
and hairy, bearded paui<les 15 to 30 cm. long. Spikelets (a ) 6 to
7 nun. long; the deeply cleft fourth or flowering glume (e) with a
stout, twisted awn 14 to IS mm. long; hairs as long as or exceed-
ing the spikclet.— Low moist grounds, New Jersey to South Car-
olina and westward to Texas. September.

9

Fig. 305. Manisuris corriigata (Baklw.) Kuntze. {RotthoeUia
corrHgr«/a Baldw. in Sill. Journ. 1: 355. 1819.) Tall Rat-tail-
grass. — A stout, erect pereniiial, 1 m. or more liigb, with flattened
culms and sheaths, subcylindrical, spike-like racemes, 6 to 8 cm.
long, terminating the branches from the upper joints of the cnlm.
Sessile spikelets, 5 to 6 mm. long, with transverse ridges and
irregular depressions on the back of the first glume {h). — Swampa
and wet pine barrens, Fla. to Miss. Sept., Oct.

10

Fig. 3()6. Manisuris rugosa (Xutt.) Kuutze, Rev. Geu. J'l. 2:
780. 1891. (EoiihoeUiaruiioHa'Sntt. Gen. l:Si.) Rough-flowekkd
Rat-tail-grass. — A rather stout percnnical, with compressed
culms 1 to 2 m. high, narrow leaves 30 to 50 cm. long, and slender
terminal and axillary racemes -1 to 5 cm. long. Outer glume of
the sessile spikelet about 4 mm. long and strongly transversely
rugose. — In moist or wet soil from Delaware to Florida and Ala-
bama, and westward to Texas, chietly near the coast. August-
October.

11

Fig. 307. Manisuris cylindrica (Michx.) Kuntze, Rev. Geu.,
PL 779. 1891. {Trixjsacum cylindricum M-ichx.; Rotthoellia cylindrica
Ton-., Chapm.). Slender Rat-tail-grass. — A slender perennial
with nearly terete, erect culms 60 to 90 cm. high, narrow leaves
15 to 30 cm. long, and cylindrical spike-like racemes 12 to 18 cm.
long. Sessile spikelet (&) 6 to 7 mm., long with the iirst glume
(c) firm in texture and slightly pitted on the hack. — Prairies,
Florida to Arkansas, Oklahoma, Indian Territory, and Texas.
June-Septemher.

12

Fig. 308. Elionurus tripsacoides Humb. et Bonpl. ap. Willd.
Sp. PI. 4:941. 1805. {Hotlhoellld ciliata'Sntt.) Astout, lirauchiiig
perennial 7 to 12 dm. high, with narrow leaves 15 to 50cm. long, and
slender, more or less pilose racemes 8 to 14 cm. in length. Sessile
spikclet lanceolate, 7 to 10 mm. long, with tlie first glnme (c) glab-
rons on the hack or shortly pubescent near the base. — Low pine
barrens and marshy grounds, Florida to Texas. [Sonth America.]
August, September.

13

Fig. 309. Andropogon tener Kuntli, Revis. Gram. 2 : 565.
Bkardless Broom Sedge.— A slender perennial grass 2 to 6 dm.
high, with long, narrowleaves, and very slender racemes 3 to 6 cm.
long. Sessile spikelet (a) 4 to 5 mm. long, with the ciliate and
deeply cleft fourth glume (/) bearing a slender awn 8 to 14 mm.
long.— Dry sandy hills and pine barrens, Florida, Alabama, and
Mississippi to New Mexico. [Cuba, Mexico.] July-September.

14

Fig. 310. Andropogon semiberbis Kunth, Euum. 1 : 48!'. (./.
/eHe>- Curtiss, N. Am. Tl. No. 3ti3:3, not Kuiitli.) Sii<>1!t-i{kaiu>f.I)
liuooM SEixiic. — A rather stout, cn'siiito.so perennial t! fo 10 tliii.
high, witli narrow leaves and slender racemes 8 to 12 < m. long.
Sessile 8i)ikelct (a) 7 to 8 mm. long, with the slender awn of the
deeply cleft fourth glume (<■) 10 to 16 mm. long. — Florida to New
Mexico and Nevada. [Cuba, I'uerto Kico.] .Siptember-April.

15

Fig. 311. Andropogon hirtiflorus oligostachyus (Chapm.)
Hack, iu 1). C. Monog. Phan. 6:372. (Andropogon oligostachyus
Chapm.) A slender perennial G to 12 dm. liigh, with narrow
leaves and slender racemes 5 to 6 cm. long. Sessile spikelet (a)
6 to 7 mm. long with the first glnme (h) liirsute, and the deeply
cleft fourth glume (e) bearing a slender, geniculate awn about 15
mm. long. Florida, Arizona. [St. Domingo and Mexico.] July-
Septemher.

16

Fig. 312. Andropogon gracilis Rprenn;. Svst. 1:2S1, not
Presl. Si.KXUEK Bkoo.m SKixiii.— A slender, erect perennial 3 t<>
4 dm. high, with tliread-like leaves 10 to 20 cm. Ions arid termi-
nal, silky-hairy racemes 3 to 5 cm. long. Sessile spikelet (a) 4 to
6 mm. long, with tlie awn of the flowering glnme (<;) 13 to 19 nmi.
l,„,g_ — l)ry pine woods, Scmthern Flori<la. [West Indies.] Juue-
Angust.

17

i^lG. 313. Andropogon virginicus tetrastachys (Ell.) Hack,
in DC. Mouog. I'ban. Prod. 6; 411. (J. tctra.-^lachys Ell. A.
citrtissianum Steud.) Many-flowered Broom Sedge. — A tall,
slender variety with the leaf-sheaths often villous above and the
lower leaves very villons. Panicles 30 to 50 cm. long, sessile
spikelets 4 to 4.5 mm. long, awns IG to 20 mm. long. — Moist pine
barrens and old fields, Florida, Alabama to Mississippi. Septem-
ber, October.

19819— Xo. 17 2

18

Fk;. 311. Andropogon mohrii Hack. Contrib. l'. S. Xat. Hcrl).
3: 11. 18512. (J. li(hm(ninl mohrii Hack, iu DC. Moiio{/r. riiaii. 6:
413. 188!).) Moiiu's BuooM Skdge. — A stout, erect pen'uiiiai, 10
to 1.") dm. hisb, with densely villous sheaths and leaves, aud lax
pauicles 50 to 60 cm. long. .Ses.sile spikelcts about 4 mm. lou>j,
with the uanow fourth jjlume bearing a slender awn about 20 mm.
long. — Low pine barrens, Alabama, Mis.sissippi, aud Louisiana.
October, November.

19

Fig. 315. Andropogon longiberbis Hack. Flora, 68 : 131. 1883.
(J. tetrasiaclii/tts var. dlsiadnjus Chapm.) Long-beahdkd Broom
Sedge.— A slender grass, G to 8 dm. high, with compressed, silky-
villous sheaths, comparatively short and llarI■o^Y leaves and slen-
der panicles, 20 to 30 cm. lung. Eacenies 3 cm. long. Sessile
spikelets 4 to 4.5 mm. long, somewhat broader than in A. vinjini-
ciis, with the shortly 2-toothcd lonith glume (e) hearing a slender
awn about If! mm. long. — High pino lands, Florida. May, June.

20

?%^

Fui. 31ti. Andropogon brachystachys ('liaixii. M. S. St.

Sn]l])l. ()(iX. SlKlKT-SI'IKKl) I'.KooM SKIXiK. — A sl (til t , cMect i»t'reii-

ui.il 11' to 15 dm. liiuli, with riitlier l<>ug, very siiiootli leaves and
uarittw, iiiiicli liriiiiclifd iiaiiicle.s 60 to 70 cm. long. Kiicenies in
])air8, l.f) to 2 cni. long. Ses.silc; spikelet iiarrow-lanccolate, aliout
.") nun. long with tlie lirst glnnie '/)) very aciiic the Coiirtli glnnie
(«) hearing a slenih r awn 7 to S nun. lonl,^ — I'iiu' liai r<Mis. Florida.
S(']»tonihf'r, Ocloher.

21

P'lG. 317. Andropogon glomeratus (Walt.) L>. S. 1'. {China
fjlomeraia Walt. Flur. Car. 39. 1788 ; A . macrouriis Michx. ) Brook-
GRASS.— A stout peieimial 6 to 12 liiii. high. Fertile spikelets
4 uiiu. long. — Low grouuds New York to Florida, westward
to Texas, New Mexico, aud Nevada. [Mexico, Lower Califoruia,
Cuba, aud Jamaica.] September-November. Note.— Another
form of this species is figured in Bull. 7.

22

Fig. 318. Aiidropogon niaritiiniis (ii.ipm. Fl. S. St. .Stippl.
6tj8. (./. 8(op<irius iiiurilimK/^ llai k. i Sani> Hhoo.M Skdhe. — A
rather slender perennial, with nuimroiis, .ihniiitly rellexed and
glalirous leaves 5 to lOeui. lony, and stonl racemes 4 to 5 cm. lonj;;
soKsilf spikelets 10 mm. lonj^, with tiie biti<l loiirth jjlume (r) bear-
ini; an awn about 13 mm. long. — Sand dnni-s along the coaBt, west
Florida to Mississipjji. September-Xoxcniber.

A good sand binder. Allied to A. ntujiar'nin, but (juite distinct.

23

Fig. 319. Andropogon hallii Hack. Sitzungsber. Ak. Wiss.
Wieu,89: 127. 1884. Colorado Sand-gkass.— A stout, glabrous
perennial 4 to 10 dm. or more bigli, with rather long (the lower 10
to 20 cm.), flat leaves and stout racemes which are in pairs or iu
threes and 5 to 8 cm. long. Sessile spikelet (a) about 8 mm. long,
with the first glume (b) ciliate along the keels and pilose-hairy
toward the apex. Awn shorter than the spikelet or wanting. —
Dry sandy soil, North Dakota, Montana, southward to Kansas,
Texas, and New Mexico, [Mexico.] July-September.

24

Fig. 32(1. Andropogon wrightii Hack, in Flora, 68 : loi). 1885.
"WiJiGin'.s Hhoom Skixjk. — A slender, croct ]terennial 5 to 8 dm.
hii^li, witli lonj;', flat leiives \T} to L'O ciii. long, and 3 to 4 di;^'itate
or Bulifastif!;iate racemes about 4 cm. loiijjf. Sessile spikelet
r).,l to t) mm. louji, witli the very narrow fourth j^hune ye) heaiiiig
a slendei' a\\n \'2 to 13 mm. Ioiili;. — l>ry mcsi.s, N(^\v Mexico.
[Mexico.]

25

Fig. 321. Andropogon halepensis Brot. {Sonjiuiin halepense
Pers; Eolcua halepensis Linn. Sp. PI. Ed. 1, 1047.) Johnson
Gkass.— A stout, sniodtL, erect perenuial 1 to 2 m. liigL, from
stron.t;, creeping rootstocks, with long, flat leaves, 1 to 2 cm. broad,
and open panicles 15 to 30 cm. long. Sessile spikelets (a) 4 to 5.5
mm. Icmg, the awn of the lloweriiig glume 10 to 15 mm. long. — In-
troduced and cultivated in many of the Southern States for hay.
[Southern Europe, Asia, and North Africa.]

26

Fig. :f2'2. Andropogon contortus Linn. Sj). 1*1. td. 1, 1045.
Twisted 1{e.\ki)-(;r.\.ss. — A ntoiit iicicnnial-l to Id dm. iii^li, with
rather broad leaves and solitary, bearded racemes, terminating
the cuhn or its branches. Kacenics about ."> cm. b>iig. Sessile
spikelet i) to 10 mm. long, pubescent. Awns twisted 8 to 10 cm.
long. — Sandy soil, Texas to Ari/ona. [Tropical and snbtropical
countries of both hemispheres.] Ai>ril-<)ctober.

27

Fig. 323. Andropogon melaiiocarpus VIU. Sk. Bot. S. Car.
«feGa.,l:146. 1817. (Stipa melanocarjni Mnhl.) LARtiE-FRUiXED
Bkakd-ghass. — A stout, branching annual ^Yith slightly com-
pressed culms, .5 to 20 dm. high, leaves 15 to 40 cm. h)ng, 0 5 to
1 cm. wide, and terminal or lateral racemes 4 to 6 cm. long. Sessile
spikelet (b) 7 to 9 mm. long with a sharp barbate callus 3 mm.
long, and a stout, densely villous awn X to 12 cm. long. — Fields
and roadsides, Florida to Alabama. [Throughout the tropics.]

2-S

Fig. 324. Nazia aliena (Spien<^,). (Lappat/o alivna Spreiij;.
Nciie Entd. 3 : 15. \S2'2. TriKjim occhleutaliH Ncps. ; Sn:hi xu eiuoxa
aliena .Sciibn. cV Smith, Dej)!. A}j;r. I)i\ . Agios. IJull. 1.) \VKSTr.i:x
PRICKI.E-CUASS. — A rather slender and (lill'iisi'lv Id'aiichiiig auiiiial
1 to 3 dm. high, with s]neadiiig, Hat leaves, sleuder 8i)ike-likc
raceiiies and iiard snikclcts, tlie hccoiid glume being rdvered witli
rigid liooked i)ri(klc.s.— Dry, rocky liillsidcs, irxa^, New Mexico,
and Arizona. | Mexico, Went Indies, and Suiitli Anieiica. I

21)

Fi(i. 325. Paspalum mucronatum Miilil. Cat. 8, 1813. ( /'.
Jiuilaus Kuuth.) Floatino \Vatei{-gi:as.s. — An aquiitic with much
branched, ascending ciiliii.s iVom a creeping or Hoatingbase, 1.5 to
10 dm. long, and 10 to 50 slender racemes 2 to G cm. long.
Spikelets in 2 series, siiljacntc, 1.5 mm. long. — Southern Illinois
to Florida, Louisiana, Indian Territory, and Texas. [Tropical
America.] .July-* ictoher.

30

Fig. 326. Paspalum inembranaceuui Walt. Fl. Carol. 7r>. 1788.
Not T.aTii. (/'. wdJiciidiiiim Schnltes.) Waltkk's Paspaltm. — A
low, creeping, seiiiiiuiuatic grass, ■with much branched, smooth
stems ] .5 to 4.5 dm. long, short, Hat leaves and. 2 to 6 small racemes,
1 to 2 cm. long. Spikelets ovate, obtuse, about 2 mm. long,
crowded in 2 lows on on(^ side of the broad (2 to 3 mm. ), Hat
racliis. — Wet soil, New Jersey and Delaware, south to Florida
and westward to southern Ohio and Texas. [Cuba.] .hily-
Uctober,

31

P^iG. 327. Paspalum boscianum Fliigge, Mouog. 170. 1810.
{P. purpurascens Ell. ; /'. viriiatinn Walt, not Linn.) Piki-lk Pas-
palum.— A stout perennial ■with ascending, liianching culms G to
9 dm. Ligb, long, Hat leaves and numerous, usually purple-
flowered racemes 2 to 6 cm. long, crowded near the summit of the
culm or its branches. Spikelets glabrous, obovate, obtuse, 2 mm.
long. — Low woodlands and along ditches. North Carolina and
Tennessee to Florida westward to Mississippi and Louisiana.
July-September.

32

w^

d- e

Fig. 328. Paspalum vaseyanum Siriln:. ii. sji. (/'. vir</atum
pithifloriim ^';l8('y, not I'aspahirn piih[jlorinn \l\\\n\) Vasky"8 Pas-
I'Ai.UM. — A rather stout, erect perennial 1) to IS dm. liigb, with
loii;^, ihit, glabrous leaves and 12 to 20 ascending racemes 5 to 10
cm. long. Spikelets ovate, 2 to 2.5 mm. long, the a<'nte outer
glumes long-haiiv (»n the margins, the tirst thinly hairy all over. —
Along ditches, roadsides, and in old lidds, Louisiana to Texas.
July-!September.

33

Fig. 329. Paspalum curtissianum Steud. Syn. PI. Glum. 1 : 26.
1855. CuRTiss' Paspalum.— A coarse, erect pereunial 9 to 17 dm.
high witli the lower sheaths usually densely villous, long, flat
leaves, and 3 to 8 spikes 4 to 10 cm. long. Spikelets (c, b) nearly
orbicular in their outline, strongly compressed on the back, about
3 mm. long.— Damp piiio barrens, Florida to Mississippi. July,
August. No. 4990, A. II. ('urtiss. 1894, and 3865, S. M. Tracy.

11)81 9— No. 17 3

34

Fig. 330. Paspalumlividum Trill. MS. Sdileclit in Linuii a, 26:
383. 1853-55; Vasey, Bnll.Torr. Bot. Clnb, 13 : 164; Coutrih. V. S.
Nat. Herl).. 3: 18.— A rather slemler, c;i'spitose perennial with
very sharp-poiuted, usually erect leaves and 1 to 8 approximate,
usually somewhat curved racemes 2 to 3 eiu. lon<^. Spikelets
erowded, oliovate, subacute, 2 to 3 mm. louu;. — Low i^rinuuds. Texas.

riaut uftou geuiculate, more or less creepiuj^ at the Ijaae.

35

Fig. 331. Paspalum scrobiculatiim Linu. Mant. 1:29. 1767.
Triu. Icon. Gram. t. 143. Ditch Mii.i.kt.— Adeiisely ea'spitose
pereunial, 2 to6 dm. liigli, with rather soft cuhiis often genicuhite
at the lower joints ; narrow, flat leaves and 2 to 5 racemes approxi-
mate near the summit of the culm or its branches, 2 to 4 cm. long.
Spikelets (h, c) rounded, obtuse, 2 to 3 mm. long.— Wet places,
Florida (No. 5760, Curtiss, 1896). [Tropical countries of both
hemispheres.] August, September.

36

Fig. 332. Paspalum blodgettii, Cliapm. Flor. So. U. S. 571.—
A slender, densely ca-spitose, erect perennial, 4 to 10 dm. high, with
flat, glabrons, thin leaves and slender racemes 2 to i cm. long.
Spiktdets (h, <■) elliptical-olilong, olitnse, about 1.7 mm. long, with
the Snerved outer glumes thinly and minutely pubescent.
Florida.

Very variable as to the length of leaves.

37

Fig. 333. Paspalum giganteum Yasey, Descrip. Cat. 6; Bull
Torr. Bot.Club. 13 : 166. 1886. Giant Water-(;ras.s.— Ast.mt,
erect perennial, 8 to 16 dm. high, with broad (often 2 to 3 cm.)^
flat leave.s, and 2 to 5 racemes, l.j to 2.5 cm. loTig. Spikelets {h, c)
crowded, plauo-couvex, obtuse, about 3 mm. long.— Moist grounds
and ditches, Florida. June-August.

38

Fk; 334. Paspalunibifidum uV. Bi'itol.) Nasli. ISKT. {raspa-
luin racemuIoKiim Chapm.) Loosely-flowerkd I'aspahim. — A
slender, erect ])ereiiuial 6 to 12 dm. liigli, loiij;. Hat leaves, Ailloiis
slii'iiths, at least tlie lower ones, and slender, ratlier remotely
flowered racemes .") to 12 em. long. Spikcleta (a. b) on eompara-
tively long pedicels, ohovate, obtuse, aliont 8 mm. long. — Dry,
sandy soil, pine barrens of Alabama and Florida westward to
J,oui.'<iana and 'I'exas. August-* >(t(ili(;r.

39

^ Vis

Fig. 335. Paspalum moncstachyum Vasey iu Cha])m. Fl. S.
States, Snppl. Gfip; r>nU. Torr. P.ot. Clnl), 13 : 163. 1886. A rigid,
erect perennial G ti) 10 dm. liigli, from a creeping rootstock, with
very long, narrow, involute leaves, tlie lower ones often 3 to 6 dm.
long, and one (rarely two) terminal raceme 15 to 20 cm. long.
Spikelets crowded, oblong, ohtnse, 3 mm. long. — Low gronnd.s,
t^lorida to Texas.

40

'■ms^\^

Fig. 33<). Anthenan ia lufa tKU.) Schiiltes, Mant. 2: 258.
{Jularanili IIS riif IIS llU.V'ot.: 103. I'auicinii rnfitin Kimtli.) Rkd-
HAIKKD Am IIKNAN ilA. — A slciiiler, erect, filnhrons and rather
ri^id penimial 3 to S dm. liigb, from orcepiti;: rootstocke, with
narrow, green, or often rufous, rather loosely Howered panicle 8
to 15 cm. long. Spikelet.s («) 3 mm. long, villous, witli si)reading
hairs on the outer glnmes.— Moi.st, sandy soil, ^line l)arrens, North
Carolina to Floriila and westwartl to Texas. August-October.

41

Fig. 337. Anthenantia villosa (Michx.) Benth. {I'lialufis villosa
Michx. Fl. 1:43. 1803. Paniciim ({iiioratum Knnth.) — Au erect,
somewhat wiry perennial, 6 to 12 dm. liigli, from strong, creeping
rootstocks, with flat, rather short leaves, and loosely flowered
panicles, 10 to 20 cm. long. Spikelets (a) about 3 mm. long, outer
glumes villous with spreading hairs. — Dry sandy soil, in open pine
barrens, etc.. South Carolina to Florida and westward to Loui-
siana and Texas. July-October.

42

Fio. 338. Eriochloa sericea IMnnro, MS. ; \';isey Coiitrib. U. S.
Natl. Herb., 3: 21, ami 111. N. Am. (Jrasses, I'ait 1, 1. 1. Silky Evkk-
i,ASTiN(i-Gi!Ass. — A slender, orcct, tufted peiciuiinl 3 to lOdm.lii.uli,
with numerous basal leave.s and slender, simple, racemose panicles.
Spikelcts (/' and c) elliptical-obloujjj, acute, 3 to 4 mm. long, imbri-
cate in two rows aloni;- ono side of the Hat rachis; outer glumes
silky-villons. rediet-ls bearing hairs as long as the spikelets.—
Dry soils, Texas to Arizona. September.

43

Fig 33i». Panicum sanguinale Linn. Sp. PI. 84. 1753. (/>«|/i-
taria smujuinalh Seop. ; Syuiheri^ma pra-cox Walt. ) Ckau-graSS.
A ,u,.ch-branched, leafy annual, ux.re or less (lecunibent and root-
in., .t tbe lower nodes. Stems 3 to 9 or 11' dm. long, nodes an.l
sheaths nsnally hairy. Spikelets 2J. to 3 mm. lung, m digitate or
subiascicnlate racemes, which are 5 to 18 cm. long.-A weed m
cnltivated lields and lawns. [Warmer temperate regions of bot n
hemispheres.] .luui-September.

44

Fiii. 310. Panicuin platyphyiluin .Muino, ex Wiij,rlit in >;iuv.
Fl. Cub. 197, without (It-scription ; V;isey in Contrib. U. S. Natl.
Herb., 3:27. Fi.at-lkafkd Panic-gkas.s. — A iiiuch-branclied,
ascemlint^, leafv ixTennial, rooting at the lower joints; Howi-ring
(stems H to 5 dm. liif;h. Spiivclcts («, h, c) broadly ovate, oblong,
obtuse, iil)out 1 mm. lonu, aiianu^ed iu slender, spike-like racemes,
wliicli arc ap)>roximato near the :ii)ox of the culm or it> branches. —
Low i^roiiuds, Texas. [Cuba.] .June, .July.

45

Fig. 341. Panicum prostratum Linn., Sp. PI. 87; Chapm. Fl.
8. States, Suppl. GHG. Low Panic-* ;kass. — A slender, creeping,
and mucli-brancbcd perennial, with short, ciliate leaves and
terminal panicles cumpDsed of 5 to 10 simple racemes. Spikelets
(a, h, c) ovate-oblong, glabrous, about 2 mm. long. — Moi.'^t or wet
grounds, New Jersey (ballast), Alabama to Florida, and west-
ward to Louisiana and eastern Texas. [Tropical countries of
botli hemispheres.] September.

46

Fk;. 342. Paiiicum saccharatum liuckl. Prel. Rep. Geol. and
Agr. Suiv. Tex. 2. 1866. ( P. lachnanihum Ton- , 1857, not ITochst.
1855). Aui/oNA C()iT()N-(iKASs. — A leafy, cn^ct pireuuial, S to 9
dm. bigli, usually nnuli-bniiiclied below; ciilnis tciiuinatctl by
narrow panitles 10 to 20 cm. long. Spikelets (a, h) about 3 mm.
long, densely silky-villoiis, tlio sjn-cading bairs lu-arly 3 to 1 mm.
long. — Dry billsidcs, ranyon.s, etc., soutbeiii Colorado, Texas, New
Mt-xico, and Arizona.

47

^ I

Fig. 343. Panicuni tenerrimum (Nees) Kuuth, Grain. 1 : 39.
(Trichachne tenuis 'Nees.) Slkndkk Woolly Panic. — A sleuder,
erect, l»ranebiiig, and leafy perennial ( "? ) 2 to 5 dm. lii.nb, with
short and rather rigid Hat leaves, and simple panicles about 10 cm.
long. 8pikelets (a, h, c) 2 mm. long; the first glume glabrous;
the second and third glumes densely clothed with short, silky
hairs. — Low grounds, Texas (Pecos County); rare. September,
October.

48

Fig. 344. Panicuni ciliatissimum Biickl. Buckl. Prel. Rep.
Geol. and Agr. Suiv. Tox. 4. 1S66. Vascy, U. 8. Dcpt. Agr., Div.
Hot., Bull. 8:2«. 1889. Iniman Wiikat. Caki'i:t ck.vss.— A
creeping, much branched, leafy perennial with upright flowering
stems 1 to 3 dm. high and narrow few-flowered panicles 2 to 4 cm.
long. Spikelets (a,'') about 3.5 to 4 mm. long, with the second
and third gluint-s densely ciliate-hairy near the myrgins. — Low
grounds, southern Texas. May.

This grass la locally known as carpet grass. TIic extensively
creeping, short-jointed, and leafy stems of this grass suggest a
close resemblance to Bermuda grass.

49

Fk;. 345. Panicuni urvilleanum Kuutb, Revis. Gram., 1 :35 et
2 : tab. ll.j. Woolly-flowered Panic. — A stout, erect peren-
nial 3 to 5 dm. liigh, with long, flat leaves and open panicles 15 to
25 cm. long. Spikflets {a, h, c) 4 to 6 mm. long, ovate, the outer
glumes clothed with rather long hairs. Whole plant more or
less hairy. — Sandy soil, southern California. [South America.]
March-.Jnne.

19S19— No. 17 -i

50

Fig. 346. Pauicum flexile (Gattiuger) Scribu. Bull. Torr. Hot.
Club. 20:476. 1893. (^P. cupillare var. jUxilc Gutuugvr, Trim.
VI. 1)4. 1887.) Wiry Panic cha.ss.— A ratbor sb-iuler, erect au-
uual, 3 to 6 dm. bigb, brancbing at tbe bast,-, witli Hat leaves,
capillary panicles, and ratlier distant, acute spikelets (a, />, c),
3 HUM. loug. In botb moist antl diy sandy .soiN, I'cnnsylvauia niid
Micbigau, soutbward to Florida and Mississippi. July-October.

51

CL I

Fig. 347. Pauicur.i cognatum Schultes, Mant. 2 : 235. 1824.
(P. divergins Muhl. 1817, not H. 13. K. 1815; P. aatumnah Bosc.
1825.) Fall Witch-grass. — A slender, erect, or ascending peren-
nial, usually much branched at th(3 base, 3 to 6 dm. high, with
rather short, narrow leaves, diffusely branching panicles, and
acute, lanceolate spikelets (a, h, c) about 3 mm. long. — Dry soil,
South Carolina and Florida to Illinois, Minnesota, Kansas, and
Arizona. June-October.

52

Fio. 348. Panicum capillarioides Vasey, Contr. TT. S. Nat. Ilorb.
1 : 54. 189i>. Texas Wit<u-(;i:ass. — An erect, moreork'ssbrauch-
iug perennial, 2.5 to ."> dm. tall, witli narrow and more or less
elongated, flat leaves and dittnse panicles l."> cm. lonir. .Spikflets
(a, h) narrowly lanceolate, arntc, ."> to (i mm. long. — t?an Diego and
Pt. Isabel, Texas. May.

53

Fig. 349. Panicum minus Nash, Bull. Toir. Bot. Club, 22 : 421.
r. capiUare var minimum Scribn. Bull. Tenu. Agr. Exp. Sta.
7: 44, fig. 39). Small Witch-grass. — A slender annual, rarely
more than 3 dm. bigli, with long-pilose sheaths, narrow, flat
leaves iind oval or pj'ramidal, few-flowered i)anicles 8 to 16 cm.
long. Spikelets ia,'b,c) about 1.5 mm. long.— Dry, open Avood-
lands and thickets, New Brunswick southward to Georgia and
westward to Wisconsin and Alabama. August, September.

54

Fit'.. 350. PanicumcapillareLinii. Sp. Pl.*^(). Old Witch-GRa.ss
OK Fool. Hay.— An aimiiul with usually coarse, biauching stems
3 to !» dm. liij^li, liairy or liirsute sheaths, and widely spread-
ing capillary panicles G to 24 cm. long. Spikclets («, h, c) acute,
smooth, about 2 mm. long.— A. Avced in cultivated fields, special) y
in sandy soils. Maine and Nova Scotia to British Columbia,
southward to Florida and Texas. [Kiiropc] July-October.

55

su^

Fig. 351. Panicum hirticaulum J. S. Presl in Rel. Haeuk. 1:
308. 1830. Rough P.\N!C-gi:ass.— A .slender, or occasionally
rather stout, erect perennial, often geniculate at the lower nodes,
with papillate-pilose sheaths, Hat and usually glabrous leaves
and terminal, more or less spreading, many-flowered panicles.
Spikelets («, h, c) lanceolate, acute, about 3 ram. long, glabrous.—
Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona to Washington. [Mexico, Gala-
pagos Islands]. August, September.

56

M

Fk;. 352. Paiiicuni elongatum ruish, I'lor. Am. Sept., (iSJ.
1814. ( I'uniciint a>jrost()id('s'M\\h\. 1817.) MUNKO-GKA.ss. — Astmit,
erect, glabrous, aud biancbin;; ])eieuuial 9 to 15 dm. bigb. witb
buifi, tlat b-avoa, and pyraniidal ]>aniclt>8 terminating tlio cnlm
aud its branches. Spikclctis (a, b, c) very acute, about 2.5 mm.
lousr. (TO .vded. — Wet nuaibius iiiid aloui^ tbe banks of streams,
New Jersey to Nortb Carolina and Ki'iitnckx . August, September.

57

Fig. 353. Paniciim divaricatuni Liuii. Am. Atacl.,5: 302. (/'.
latifolium Liiiu. S]). PL in part.) Small Cane. — A coarse, -woody,
bamboo-like pereuiiial, reclining or climbing over l)nsbes, Avitb
usually numerous, sbort and spreading, liower-beariug branches
at the nodes. Leaves lanceolate-acute; panicles simple, few-
flowered. Spikelets (a, &) swollen, about 4 mm. long. Glumes
tipped with a tuft of hairs. — Dry woods and thickets, southern
Florida [West Indies, Mexico, and tropical America]. March-
September.

58

Fig. 354. Panicum gymuocarpon Kll. IJot. 8. C. and (ia., 1:
1 17. Cliapni. Floi-. S. U. S. 573. Marsh Panic-grass.— A liinous-
rooted, smooth perennial with tionlcnlate, asoeudinfj: stems (! to 12
dm. high, with h)ng and rather broad, Hat leaves and simple ter-
minal panicles al)out 30 cm. long. Spikelets (a, h) lanceolate-
acute, about (5 mm. long, arranged along one side of the panicle-
branches. Outer glumes much longer than the llowering one. —
Low grounds, Georgia and Floriila westwanl to Louisiaua an<l
Texas. July-September.

59

Fk;. 355. Panicum subspicatum Vasey, U. S. Dept. Agr. Div.
Bot., Bull. 8: 25. 1889. Narrow-topped Panic— A sleuder,
erect, more or less branching, leafy perennial, 2 to 4 dm. high, with
flat, more or less spreading leaves and narrow, nearly simple, ter-
minal panicles, the ultimate branches terminating iu a short
bristle. Spikelets {a, h, c) about 2.2 mm. long.— Dry, sandy plains,
southern Texas. August.

60

I'li;. ;r>(!. Paiiicuin reverchoni \ .iNoy, II. S. iJcpt. Aj;i'. I'i\.
r.ol., Iiiill.8 : LT). 18S!t. lv'i;\ i.ici iion's I'anmc. — A Mlciider, t-roct,
;iii<l ijither driiscly crspiloso p(i(Mini;il with very narrow, croct
It-avoM anil tc-rniinal. hIimijIo ]taniclfH, tlio approssccl liranilids ter-

niiiiatin;,' in slior) hristlos. Sjtikcli-ts (n, b) ',i.r> U> 1 i \'>\\'j;. —

Sanilx' |ilains, 'I'cxas. .Iinui Sciifcnilirr.

(;i

Fi(,. I'.r.T. Panicum wiightianuni Sc.rilin., H. S. Ih^pt. A^t. luv.
Agros. r.iill. 11: II. — yV sloiidcr, iimcli luaiichrd, Icjily pcrniiiiiil,
Willi Miiiootli, lU'Jiciitf! p!iiiiiI(!H 2 to :! cm. Ioiil;, ;m(l Hiiiiill (li;ir(lly
1 nun. l<)ii^?)8pik. dels (rt, h,(;), tliosccond ;in<l t lli^(lf(llllll<•f^ <'f wliich
arominntcly and (IcmHcly 1)11 iMHcrnt,. LcavcH 1 to 3 fii\. \'>u<x. L' t..:{
iniii. wide, niiiiut(!ly iiiibcHcont nii tlio under Hide — MoihI,, .s;mdy
•soil in (}]um ])\uo. woodlnndsi, {"lorida. [('iiIim]. .Iiily-OclobiT.

62

Fig. 35H. Panicum baldwinii Scribn. U. S. Dept. Agr. Div.
Agios, liiill. 11 : 4o. {ranlciim nitidiDii \aY. mivor Vascy; /'.
dicholoinnm var. nUidum Chapui.). — A denst-ly cirspitose, slender,
glabrous perennial, 1 to 3 dm. liigb, with sLort, narrow, and nmre
or less spreading leaves, ovoid or pyramidal panicles '2 to 1 cm.
long, anil glabrous, ovoid, or pear-shaped spikelets (a, b, c) about
1 mm. long.— Katlier dry, sandy soil, Georgia and Florida to
Mississi])]!). March-August.

63

Fig. 359. Panicum albomarginatum Nash, Bull. Torr. Bot.
Club, 24 : 40, 1897.— A slender, erect, glabrous, ca-spitose per-
ennial, 1.5 to 4.5 dm. bigb, with short sheaths, comparatively
firm, erect leaves 1.5 to 4.5 cm. long, bordered with a conspicuous,
serrulate, white margin. Panicles ovate, 2.5 to 4 cm. long, with
many obovate, obtuse, minutely i)ubescent spikelets (a, b) 1.5 mm.
long. — Low pine woodlands and swam^is, Pennsylvania and Dela-
ware to Florida and westward to Texas. April-October.

64

Fig. 360. Pauicum leucothrix Nash, iinll. Torr. Hot. Club, 24:
41. 18!)7. — A sk'uder, erect, or asceuding, 8parin{j;ly branclieil per-
ennial, 1 to 1.5 dm. liif^li, with short, erect leaves 2 to (? cm. long,
and ovate or oval panicles 2.5 to 6 cm. long. Sjiikelets (a,h,c)
obovato about 0.65 mm. long. Sheaths pubesceut, with ascend-
ing or closely appressed, long, white hairs. — Sandy noil in low
jtinc barrens and cypress swamps, sonthcru Florida. April-Jnly.

65

IM,.

Fig. 361. Panicum erectifolium Nash, Bull.Torr. Bot. Club, 23 :
148. 1896. (/'. spharocarpoii Jluridanum Vasey not P. Floridanum
Trin.)— A rather stout, f^labrous perennial, 4 to 6 dm. high, with
erect and rather rigid leaves, and terminal, finally exserted, many-
flowered, ovate or oblong panicles, 7 to 12 cm. long. Spikelets
(a, b, c) about 1.5 mm. long, the second and third glumes minutely
pubescent.— Swamps, Florida. March-.Iuly.

19810— No. 17 5

6G

Fig. 362. Panicum sphagiiicolum Nnsh, Hull. Torr. Bot. Clul),
22 : 422. 1895.— A very slender, asceudiug or recliniuji: pareunia],
4 to 10 dm. liij^li, at first hiiiii)lc, (inally boconiiiij; iimcli braiK^lied,
with spreading, smooth leaves 4 to 8 (111. long, and Bmall spread-
ing panicles 4 to 5 cm. long. Spikelets (a, h, <■) 2.5 to 3 mm. long.
■with the second uud third glnnies miuutoly i)iilie.socnt, at least
near the apex.— Low, boggy places, chielly in thickets an<l stag-
nant swamps, Florida. .Iuue-( )ctol)('r.

67

Fig. 363. Panicum lucidum Ashe, Journ. E. Mitch. Sci. Soc. 15 :
47. 1898. {F. ramulosum 'MchxJ.) A very slender, erect, or re-
clining, glabrous perennial 3 to 10 dm. high, with rather short
(2 to 5 em.), flat, acute leaves, and small, spreading panicles, 2 to
6 cm. long. S])ikelets eJliptical-ovate, obtuse, 1.8 uini. long, with
the second and third glumes glabrous. — Low woods. New .Jersey
southward and westward to Texas, common.

Distiuguislied from /'. sphaynicoluin by its smaller aud glabrous
spikelets.

68

Fig. 3f)4. Panicum werneri Scrilm. in liritt. & Brown, 111. Flor.
3:501. ISitiS.— A 8l(>udcT, erect, glabrous i){>renni;vl with en-ct,
noiirly linear, vury acute leaves "> to 8 cm. long, and open, ovoid or
pyramidal i)anicles 5 to S em. long. Hranclies of tlie panicle
llexuoiis. Si)ikclet8 obovate or oblong, obtuse, about 2.2 mm.
long, the obtuse second and third glumes glabrous or sjiarsely and
niinutcdy pubescent. Ohio.

69

Fig. 365. Panicum polyanthes Schulfes, Maut., 2 : 257. 1824.
(P. multijiorum Ell. 1S17. not Poir 1816; P. microcarpon Muhl.
June, 1817, uot ex Elliott Jan., 1817). — A rather .stout, erect, and
finally sparingly branched, smooth perennial, 3 to 8 dm. high,
with hroad, spreading leaves, many-tiowered panicles, 7 to 18 cm.
long, and minutely pubescent, nearly spherical spikelets {a, h, c)
about 1.5 mm. long. — Dry open woodlands and occasionally in
open grounds. New York southward to Florida and westward to
Michigan, Nebraska, and Texas. June-October.

70

Fig. 366. Panicum dichotomum Linn. Sp. PI. 58. — A slender,
smooth, and finally much branched above, somewhat wiry i)eren-
nial, 2 to 6 dm. high, with i)ale-grcen, spreading leaves 4 to 8 cm.
long, and open jjanicles. Lateral panicles small and few-tlowered.
Spikelcts («, b, c) oblong-elliptical, nearly 2 mm. long, glabrous.
The later growth of this si>ecies has the a8i)eet of a little tree. —
Dry thickets and open woodlands, New York to Nebraska and
southward to the Gulf of Mexico. May-October,

71

Fic. 367. Panicum pubescens Lam. Enoycl., 4 : 748. 1797.
Scribu. Grasses of Tennessee, 2: 52, fig. .58, 1894. (P. villosiim Ell.).
A slender, erect, and finally mucli-branclied perennial 1.5 to 5 dm,
high, with Hat, ascending, and rather firm, narrowly lanceolate,
pubescent leaves 5 to 10 cm. long, anddififuse, ovati-, or pyramidal
panicles bearing obovate spikelets (a, h, c) which are 2 mm. iu
length.— Dry soil, usually in open woodlands, from New Jersey to
South Dakota and southwai d to the Gulf. May-September.

72

Fig. 3(i8. Panicum brittoni Nash, Bull. Torr. ]5ot. Club, 24:
194. 18t)7. I5i;rrr()N'.s Panic-grass. — A slender, erect, csespitose
perennial with rigid culms 1 to 2 dm. high, erect leaves, and ovate
panicles 2 to 3 cm. long. Spikdcts (a, h) oval or obovoid, obtuse,
1.1 mill. long_ with the second and third flumes densely pubes-
cent.— I'ine barrens. New Jersey.

73

Fig. 369. Panicum octonodum J. G. Smith, n. sp. A slender,
erect, nnbranched. glabrous perounial 4 to 6 dm. bigh, witbliucar,
rigid, erect or ascending leaves, and narrowly pyramidal, rather
densely flowered panicles 5 to 10 cm. long; spikelets elliptical-
ovate, acute, 1.2 mm. long; second and third glumes faintly
7-uerved and glabrous. — Texas. Allied to P. lindheimeri Nash.

74

Fk;. 370. Panicuin tsugetorum Nash, I5ull. Torr. Bot. ("luh,
25 : 86. 1898. — A slciukT, tufted, and at length much branched
perennial 2 to 4.5 dm. high with the cnlin, sheaths, and lower sur-
face of the leaves ai)j)ressed-itubescent, and liroa<lly ovate panicles
4 to (i..") cm. long. Sjiikelets {a,h) about 1.8 ram. long, broadly
obovate, the <>ut<'r glumes imbesccnt with short, spreading hairs. —
Open woods under evergreens, New York. June-August.

75

Fig. 371. Panicum eatoni Nasli, Bull. Torr. Bot. Clnl), 25 :
84. 1898. — A smooth, erect, c:L'spitose perennial, finally much
branched, with erect, lanceolate leaves and rather narrow and
densely flowered panicles, 7 to 13 cm. long. Spikelets oval-oblong,
about 1.6 mm. long, the second and third glumes densely pubes-
cent with spreading hairs.— Maine to New York, near the coast.

76

Fk;. 372. Panicum atlanticum Nash, Bull. Tdir. hot. Club,
24: 346. 1897. — A slender, erect, imicli-branched pereuuial 3 to
5 dm. high, with the culm, sheaths, and erect, linear-lanceolate
leaves, papillate-pilose with long, -white, si)reading hairs. Pan-
icle 4 to 6.5 cm. l<mg. Spikelets obovate, obtuse, about 2 mm.
long, the 9-nerved second and third glumes densely pubescent
with short, spreading hairs. — lu opeu woods, JSlainc to ^'irginia.

77

Fig. 373. Panicum implicatum. Scrilm. U. S. Dept. Agr. Div.
Agros. , Bull. 11 : 43. July 20, 1898. — A weak, sleuder, hairy peren-
uial 3 to 5 dm. liigh, with rather short, mostly erect leaves and
diffusely branching, pyramidal panicles 3 to 5 cm. long. Axis of
the panicle and its flexuons branches pilose. Spikelets (a, b, c)
1.5 mm. long, obovate, obtuse, minutely pubescent. — Low grounds
near the coast, from Maine to Delaware. June-August.

78

Fig. 374. Panicum addisonii Nash, Hull. Toir. Bot. Club, 25:
83. 18<)8. — A rather sleiidfr, erect, o'-decniubeut, and finally luucb-
branched perennial 2.5 to 4 dm. high, with more or less pubescent
sheath.s, lanceolate and rather thickish, glabrous leaves, and ovate
or oblong panicles 2 to Ct cm. long. 8])ikelets (a, h) broadly obo-
vatc, 2 mm. long, with the 9- to 11-ncrvcd second and third gluuies
densely pubescent, with long spreading hairs. — .Sandy soil, New
Jersey. May-.Juno.

79

^v^

Fig. 375. Panicum pedicellatum Vasey, U. S. Dept. Agr. Div.
Bot., Bull. 8 : 25. 1889. — A slender, erect, or ascending, and finally
much-branched perennial 3 to 6 dm. high, with ascending, acute
leaves 5 to 8 cm. long, open, few-flowered panicles, and oblong,
minutely pubescent sjiikelets (a, h, c) about 4 mm. in length. — In
open, rocky Avoodlands, Texas. May, June.

80

Fig. 376. Panicum iiudicaule Vasey, U. S. Dept. Aj^r. Div. Bot.,
I'.iill. 8 : 81. 1881*.— A slender, erect, suiootli i)creiinial, 8 to 6 dm.
lii>;li, with narrow, lanceolate leaves 5 to 10 cm. lonj^, much-ox-
serted, icw-ll()wered panicles .5 to 8 cm. long, and elliptical-oblong,
glabrous spikelets («, h) 2 to 5 niui. long.— Swamps, Santa Kosa
County, Florida. April, May.

81

Fig. 377. Panicum webberianum Nasb, Bull. Tovr. Bot. Club,
23 : 119. 1896. Webber's Panic-grass. — A rather rigid, erect or
asceuding and more or less branched perennial 2 to 4 dm. high,
with lanceolate, spreading leaves and ovate, spreading panicles 6
to 9 cm. long. Spikelets {a, h, c) elliptic or obovate, 2.5 mm. long
vfith the second and third glumes minutely pubescent, as is the
fourth or flowering glume near its obtuse apex. — Low pine lands,
Florida. May-August.

19819— is^o. 17 G

82

Fig. 378. Panicum laxiflorum Lam. Encycl. 4 : 748. 1797. —
A slender, densely tufted iiereiuiial about 3 dm. liigli, with rather
long, pale-green, soft leaves and loosely fow-Howered panicles 4 to
0 cm. lonj;;. Sheaths papillate-pilose with spreading or deflexed
liairs. ypikelets (a, h, c) ovate-elliptical, ohtuse, about 2 mm.
long. Second and third glumes pubescent. — Dry or moist, open
woodlands, A'iiginia to I'lorida and westward to Tennessee and
Louisiana. March-October.

83

Fig. 379. Panicum ciliatifolium Kunth, Revis. Gram. 1 : 36.

1835. {P. ciliatinn Ell. not Tliuul).). — A slender, densely tufted
perennial 1 to 3 dm. liigli, with rather short, c-iliate leaves and dif-
fuse panicles. Leaves 2 to 6 cm. long, 4 to 12 mm. wide. Panicles
ovate-pyramidal, 2 to 3 cm. long. Spikelets (a, b, c) about 2 mm.
long, glabrous or minutely puljcsceiit. — Moist open woodlands in
sandy soil, North Carolina to Florida and westward to Mississippi.
March-October.

«4

W'Mm

Fig. 380. Panicum polycaulon Nash, Bull. Torr. Bot. Cliih.
24: 200. 1897.— A low, palc^ grt-eu, densely ciespitose perennial

1 to 2 dm. high, with erect or ascending, oblong-lanceolate leaves

2 to 7 cm. long and ciliate on tLe ni.argins, and ovate panicles 2 to

3 cm. long. Spikelets {a, h) abont 1.5 mm. long, ol)nvate, obtuse,
the 7-nerved second and third glnmes glabrous. — Florida.

This is separated from the closely allied /'. ciViatifolium Kniith
by its narrower leaves, more slend.T culms, and smaller, glal>ri)us
spikelets.

85

-^

'* \lfl rife f ^

mmm'

Fig. 381. Panicum glabrifolium Nash, Bull. Torr. Bot. Club,
24: 196. 1897. — A slender, densely ctespitose, and rigidly erect,,
^iry perennial 1.5 to 4 dm. high, -vrith narrowly linear, erect, and
rather rigid leaves and ovate panicles 4 to 6 cm. loug. Spikelets
((I, h) 0.5 to 0.8 mm. long, obovate, the 5-to 7-nerved second and
third glumes glabrous. — Florida.

86

Fig. 382. Panicum ciliiferum Nash, Bull. Toir. Bot. Club. 24:
19.5. 1897.— A densely c;i'spitose, erect, or finally niucli-branche<l
and decumlx'ut peienuial 2 to 8 dm. liigh, with cuiiiis, sheaths,
and lower surface of leaves pubescent or hirsute, and broadly
ovate panicles 7 to 9 cm. loni:;. Spikdets obovate, subacute, 3
mm. Ion,;;, the 9-nerved second and third glumes strongly pubes-
cent.— Florida.

87

Fig. 383. Panicum manatense NasL, Bull. Torr. Bot. Club, 24 :
42. 1897.— A glabrous, niucb-braucbed pereuuial with diffusely
sin-eadiug culms 2 to 4 dm. long, nearly erect leaves 3.5 to 9 cm.
long, and ovate, ratber few-flowered panicles 4 to 6 cm. long.
Spikek'ts (a, &, c) elliptical-oblong, pubescent, about 3.5 mm.
long, witb distinct papilla- between tbe nerves of the second
and third glumes.— Florida and ( ?) Georgia to Louisiana.

Distinguished from P. commulatum by its larger and more acute
spikelets. Very closely allied to P.Jooiii Vasey.

88

Fig. 384. Panicum ensliiii Tiin. MSS., Nees, Agros. Bras.. 2:
227. 1829. (/'. ?/)Hrtr//o/i((«i Scribu. U.S. Dept.A.uT.. Div. Agios..
Bull. 11: 42 PI. 1.)— A slender, erect, densely Cii-spitoso perenni.il
2 to 4 dm. high, with long, linear-lanceolate, erect leaves and
simple, open panicles 5 to 8 cm. long. Spikelets (a. h)2to 2..". mm.
long, obovat(>, obtuse, with the T-nervcd second and third glumes
glabrous or sparingly pilose.— New England southward to Vir-
ginia and westward to Texas. To be compared with I', feiine
iluhl.

89

Fig. 385. Panicum depauperatum Mubl. Gram. 112. 1817.—
A slender, erect, or ascending perennial, nsually lunch branched
near the base, about 1.5 to 4 dm. high, with very narrow, erect
leaves 8 to 20 cm. long, few-flowered narrow panicles 4 to 10 cm.
long, and rather smooth spikelets (a, b, c) 3 to 4 mm. long. — Open
woodlands and gravelly fields from Nova Scotia and Manitoba
southward to Florida and Texas. May-August.

90

Fig. 38G. Panicum viscidum Ell. Bot. S. Car. A: Ga., 1 : 123.
1817. {P. scojxvium ]Miclix.iiot Lam.). — A rathoi- stout, erect or
iscending. liually much brauched perennial, (! to ll' dm. lii'^li.
Leaves rather hroad, very acute, those on the primary stem V2 to
'25 cm. long. Panicle 10 to 15 cm. long, ovate or Mihpyramidal,
many-flowered. Spikelets (a, b, c) 2 mm. long, rounded-obovate,
the whole plant, or at least the culm and sheaths denselj' ])ul)e8-
cent with soft, si)reading hairs, and all parts somewhat viscid
when fiesh. — Low ground, borders of thickets, etc., from \ew
Jersey and Delaware southward to llorida and westward to
Indiana and Texas. .June-October.

91

Fig. 387. Panicum scabriusculum Ell. Sk. Dot. S. Car. & Ga.
1: 121. 1817.— A rather stout, erect, and finally sparingly branched
perennial, 9 to 15 dm. high, with narrowly lanceolate leaves 8 to
ir> mm. Avide and 7 to 20 cm. long. Panicle spreading, 12 to 20 cm.
long. Spikelets («, h, c) 2 mm. long, glabrous.— Low grounds,
North Carolina to Florida and westward to Texas. May-August.

This species is closely allied to I'dtucnm riscidnm.

92

Fig. 3b8. Panicum claiidestinum Liuu. Sp. PI. 58.— A stout,
erect or asceudiug perennial, finally branching above, 8 to 12 dm.
liigb, with broad leaves and terminal, dift'usc panicles 8 to 13 cm.
lon.u-. Spikelets (a, h, d) oblong, smooth or finely pilose, 3 mm.
long. The jjanicb-s on the branches arc for the jiiost part inchulcd
within the uppermost sheaths.— Low thickets, Quebec to Michi-
gan, and southward to Georgia and Texas. May-September.

93

\

Fig. 389. Panicum malacon Nash, Bull. Torr. Bot. Club, 24:
197. 1897. — A rather rigid, erect perennial, finally mncli branched
near the base, with bearded nodes, hairy sheaths and stems, firm
leaves 3 to 10 cm. long, and open few-fiowered panicles 7 to 10
cm. long. Spikelets {a, h) obovate, obtuse, pubescent, 3 to 3.5
mm. long. Whole plant pubescent, with white, ascending hairs. —
New Jersey (?), high pine lands of southern Florida. May.

94

Fig. 3yu. Panicum angustifolium Kll. Bot. S. Cur. A: <i.a. 1: V29.
1817. — A rather slender but rij^id, erect, more or less pubescent
perennial, 3 to 0 dm. high, at first simjile, finally much branched
throughout. Leaves of the primary stems erect, 8 to 1.") cm. long
and 1 loC mm. wide; those of the wiry branches shorter and much
narrower. Panicles 7 to in cui. long, si)reading, and rather loosely
floweroil. Spikcjcts (a, h, v) 3 mm. long, obloTig, obtuse; outer
glumes finely ])ub(!sc{'nt. — Dry soil, North Carolina to Florida and
westward to Missouri and Texas. March-October.

;i5

ilH^;v'

,|f^//

Fig. 391. Pauicum wilcoxianuni Vasey, U. S. Dept. Agr. Div.
Bot., Bull. 8 : 32. 1889. — A rather slender, very bairy, aud fiually
much-branched x)erennial 2 to 2.5 dm. high, -with erect, acnte
leaves, and small, spreading panicles 2 to 3 cm. long. Spike-
lets (a, b, c) oblong, obtuse, 3 mm. long, with pubescent outer
glumes. — Dry prairies, Kansas northward through Nebraska aud
South Dakota to Manitoba. .Tune-August.

9fi

Fig. 392. Panicum malacophyllum Nash, Bull. Torr. Bot.
Club. 24 : 198. 1897. — A hairy, erect, or ascending perennial,
2 to 4 dm. high, at length much branched above with narrow,
softly pubescent leaves and open panicles 3 to 5 cm. long, the Hex-
uous branches bearing obovate spikelets (a, &, c) 3 to 3.5 mm. long.
Outer glumes densely pubescent, with rather long, spreading
hairs. — Cedar barrens, etc., Tennessee to Arkansas and Indian
Territory. May-July.

V i

Fig. 393. Panicum scribnerianum Xasb, Bull. Torr. Bot. Club,
22 : 421. 1895. (P. scoijarium A. Gray in part, not Lam.). — An erect
and finally brandling perennial 1.5 to 6 dm. high, witli nsnally
papillate-pilose sheaths, more or less spreading, flat leaves, which
are smooth and scabrous beneath, and small, ovoid panicles 2 to 3
cm. long. Spikelets(rt. 6, c) obovoid, 3 mm. long, nearly glabrons. —
In dry or moist soils from Maine and Ontario westward to Wyo-
ming, and southward to Tennessee, Texas, and Arizona. May-
September.

19810— No. 17 7

98

Fig. 394. Panicum pauciflorum Kll. Sk. Bot. S. Car. i^ Oa.
1: 120. — A compuratively stout, usually tTcct, and fmally branch-
ing perennial 3 to 5 dm. liigli, with hairy sheaths, narrow leaves,
and small, few-llowered pan ides. Leaves smooth above, roughened
beneath. .Spikelets (a, h, c) oval or oblong, 1 mm. long, the second
and third glumes jiubrscent. Loose or more or less sandy and
usually damji soils. — Georgia and .South ( aroliu.i. May-October.

99

Fig. 395. Panicum equilaterale f^cribu. 17. S. Dept. Agr., Div.
Agros., Bull. 11: 42. PI. 2. 1898.— A rather stout, erect, and
densely cai'spitoso, glabrous perennial 3 to 6 dm. higli. with long,
lanceolate leaves and open i)anicles 7 to 10 cm. long. Spikelets
(fl. h, c) elliptical or obovate, obtuse, 3 to 3. .5 mm. long, with the
first glume 3-nervcd, the second and third nearly equal, 7- to 9-
nerved, slightly pubescent. — Pine and ''liunnnock"' lands, Flor-
ida. June-August.

100

Fic. 396. Panicum latifoliiim Linn. Sp. PI. i:<l. 1. 58. 175.3,
exdntling reference to Sloauc. { I', ivalteri Poir. ; I', poito-ianxvi
Nash.).— A rather slender, brauchiuj-- perennial 3 to G dm. high,
Avith hroad, ovate-lanfeolato leaves, aud few-tlowered, nearly
siriiple panicles. Spikelets (a, b, c) ovate-elliptical or pear-shajicd,
obtuse, aljont 4 nun. long, ontcr glnnn-s shortly pubescent.— Com-
mon in open woodlands and thickets. Maine and Ontario to Min-
nesota, and southward to Florida aud Texas. May-October.

101

Fig. 397. Panicum leibergii Scribu. U. S. Dept. Agr. Div.
Agros. Bull. 8 : 6. pi. 3. {P. scopariuiii leiheryli Vasey, Coutr
U. S. Nat. Herb., 3 :31.) — A slender, erect, or ascending perennial
grass, 3-6 dm. high, Avith rather broad, tlat leave.s and few-tlowered
panicles of comparatively large, obtuse spikelets (a, h, <:■) 3 to 4
mm. long, the outer glumes papillate-pilose with stiff, spreadiu«
hairs. — Iowa, Mimiesuta, the Daliotas, and Missouri. May-July.

102

Fig. 398. Panicum ovale Ell. St. V«n. S. Car. & Ga. 1 : 123.
1817. — A rather Htoiit. erect, and liiially nuifli-Uraiiclu'd ])i'renuial
with villous sheaths and leaves (later becoming smooth) and ovate
panicles 5 to 6 cm. long. Spikelets (a, b, c) obovate or oval.
2.5-3 mm. long, thti second and third glumes pubescent. Leaves
of the culm erect, 6 to 12 cm. long and 1 to 7 mm. wide. — South
Carolina to Fhn ida.

103

Fig. 399. Panicum xauthophysum A. Gray, Ann. Lye. X. Y. 3 :
233. 1835. — A slender, or occasionally rather stout, erect peren-
nial, 3 to 6 dm. high, sparingly branching near the base, with
liroadly lanceohitc leaves 6 to 15 cm. long, and simple, rather I'ew-
Howered, racemose panicles 3 to 8 cm. long. Spikelets {a, h, c)
obovoid, obtuse, about 3 mm. long, the second and third glumes
pubescent. — Dry, sandy soil, Maine to New Jersey and westward
to Minnesota and Manitoba. June-September.

104

Fk;. 400. Oplismenus hirtellus ( Linn.) K. ct S. Syst. 2 : 481.
{raiiicitm hirlcUtim Linn.) Ckekpiku I}eai;d-(;rass.— A Aveak,
decumbeut, and more or less extensively creeping perennial 3 to
6 dm. long, with broad, flat leaves, and simple, racemose panicles
6 to 8 cm. long. Spikelets (a) about 3 mm. long. — Moist wood-
lauds and swamp.s, Georgia and Florida, westward to Louisiana
and Texas. [Mexico and .South America.] June-October.

105

Fig. 401. Chaetochloa glauca (Linn.) Scribn. U. S. Dept. Agr.
Div. Agros., Bull. 4 : 39. 1897. ( Panicum (jJaucum Liuu. ; Setai-ia
(jlanca Beanv.) Yellow Foxtail.— An erect, leafy annual 3 to G
dm. high, usually much branched near the base, with flat leaves
and bristly, spike-like panicles 2 to 8 cm. long. Bristles 5 to 10 to
each spikelet, usually yellow. Spikelets about 3 mm. long, with
the second glume about half the length of the transversely rugose
flowering-glume.— Fields and waste places about dwellings, etc.,
throughout. Naturalized from Europe. June-September.

106

Fig. 402. Chaetochloa magna (Griseb.) Scribn. U. S. Dept.
Agr. Div. Agros., liiill. 4:39. 1897. (Setaria magna Griseb.)
Giant .Millet.— A stout, erect, leafy animal ( .') 18 to 3G dm. biyli,
ranch branched below, with broad, Hat leaves and bristly, densely
llowered panicles 15 to 35 cm. long. Spikelets (b) 2 mm. long, with
tiie second glnnu; as long as the smooth fruiting glume. — Low
grounds along the coast from southern Maryland and Virginia
southward to riori<la and westward to Texas. [West Indies and
Bermudas.] July-October.

107

Fig. 403. Chaetochloa verticillata (Linu.-) Scribn. U. S. Dept.
AgT., Div. AgTos., Bull. 4 : 39. 1897. ( raiiicum rerticiUaium Linu. ;
Setaria rerticillnta I'.eauv.) Bristly Foxtail. — A leafy, upright
annual 3 to 6 dm. Ligb, much branclied near the base, with rather
slender, spike-like panicles 2 to 6 cm. long. Bristles as long as or
a little exceeding the spikelets, downwardly barbed. — Fields and
waste places, New England to Virginia and Kentucky, westward
to South Dakota and Nebraska. Naturalized from Europe. June-
September.

108

Vui. 404. CenclirusgracillimusXash, r.uU. Torr. T.ot. Club, 22 :
SOO. 1SH5. Si.KXDDii Saxd-iur. — An asceudiiig, sparingly
branched, slender, leafy anunal 3 to 0 dm. bigb, -with loosely
(lowered, slender spikes 3 to 5 cm. long. Juvoluere (h) ovate,
smooth, with nnmerons long, slender, nsnally purplish spines. —
High pine lands, Florida. April-September.

109

Fig. 405. Cenchrus incertus M. A. Curt. Bost. Jonrn. Nat.
Hist. 1 : 13.5. 1837. (C. stricius Chapm. Coult. Bot. Gaz. 3 : 20.
1878.) SofTHKRX Sand-bur.— A smooth, asceuding, aud more
or less brauclied perennial ( ?), i.o to 9 dm. liigh, with dat leaves
and slender spikes 5 to 8 cm. long. Spikelets inclosed in a bur-
like involucre (a) which is naked below, with 6 to 12 stout spines
jiljove.— Sandy soil along the coast, Georgia to Florida aud west-
ward to Texas. June-October.

Fig. 406. Cenchrus niacrocephalus Scribii. new name. (C.
tribuloidcs macroccpltulus Doell, J'lor. Ih'as.. 2 : i)art 2, 312. 1877.
ex char.) Lakge Sand-buh.— A coarse, mncli branclied and leafy
aimnal, witli prostrate or ascending culms 3 to 6 dm. long, and
dense spikes 2 to 8 cm. long. Involiicros or "burs" (a) jiubesceut,
about 8 mm. long and G lum. broad, with numerous stout spines. —
Sands along the coast, New Jersey and southward ( ?), New Orleans.

I3ur.s about twice the size of tiiosc of Cenchrus iribitloides.

Ill

Fig. 407. Cenchrus echinatus Linn. 8p. PI. 1488. Cock
Spur. — A stout, erect or ascending perennial 3 to 10 dm. liigl).
with rather broad, Hat leaves and cylindrical, dense spikes 8 to 12
cm. long. Involucres (a) pilose or downy, with many spines above
and bristly near the base.— Dry soil, fields and waste places.
South Carolina to Florida and westward to Texas. [Mexico and
south ward. ] March- September .

112

Fig. 408. Zizauiopsis miliacea (Michx.) Doell »fc Aschers.
{Zi:an\a mUiacca ^licbx. Flor. Bor. Am. 1 : 74. 1S03.) W.\.TER
-Millet. — A .stout, erect, glabrous, semiiK^iiatic grass 12 to 45 dm.
liigh, from long, creeping rootstocks, ^Yith long, broad leaves and
dense panicles 30 to 45 cm. long. Spikelets staminate (c) and
pistillate {u,h), the former 6 to 8 mm. long, awnless, the latter
about 6 mm. long, the outer glume with an awn 2 to 6 mm. long. —
.Swamps, etc., Florida to Texas and (according to Kiddell) north-
ward to r)bi<). May-August.

113

Fig. 409. Zizania aquatica Linn. Sp. PI. 001. Wild Rice
"Keeds."— A stout, erect, aquatic annual 9 to 30 dm. high, with
broad, Hat leavi-s and large panicles 30 to 60 cm. long. Stami-
nate spikelets (c) 6 to 12 mm. long, awuless; tlie pistillate
spikelets (a) 8 to 24 mm. long, the outer one bearing an awn 24 to
48 mm. long. Grain linear, 10 to 16 mm. long.— Swamps and
shallow margins of sluggish streams and rivers, New Brunswick
to Manitoba, southward to Florida and Texas. June-October.
19819— No. 17 8

1L4

' Fig. 410. Savastaua alpina (Sw.) Sciibii.M<;m. Ton. IJot. Club,
5:34. 18!t4. {IIoIcuh alphniH Sw. Hierochloa uliiiiia R. &. S.)
Ai.i'iNK lIoi-YiiHAss. — A Hl<ii(l(ir, ^ilahious, oicct pcironnijil l.Hto
'!..") dm. Iiigli, Willi Hilt Ic:iv<!H jiikI (•(inliiicti'd jjanioIoH in Id 'A ciii.
li)ii;f. Spikolets r> to 7 niiii. lon;^, vvil li ^ll<^ .i wii r>r i he Iniiit li ;;liiiii()
more or leHH beiil, iiiid ii))()ut 0 mm. loii^.— (iirciilaiid U> AIiihImi
jiiid on the liigli iiKiiintiiiiiH of New lliiglainl mid Now York.
[Nortliern Kiiropo and Asia. J .Inly, August.

MCW YOUK
OTA NIC Ai.

Fk;. 411. Phalaris anindinacea Mim. Sp. I'l. nr). Iv'kko
(Janaky-ckass.- a Htonl, iicct, f^lalnoim, l.ioiul-loaftul pcitniiiial,
(I to If) dm. Iiit;li, wiMi di'iistily llowi^idd piiiiiclcH, (i to Iti cm. loiij,'.
SpikclotH (a) r. loO mm. lonj;, wit.li HcaWrouH, li-iicrvc-d oiilcsr (.^liiincH
(^),()im-r()iirthlon;r«il,li,iii|,li()(>l>tiiHc, piil)(!M(ciit,(lovvfrmi.c<;liim«.—
Moist i»1;kcs and in Hhiillow vviitor, Nova Scotia to i'.i iti.sii Col
iimhiii, and Hontlnv;ird to Maryiiind, 'I'«niH)HHe(>, KaiiHa-H, An/.on.i,
iiiid (';ililoi ni;i. |l'.nrop<-,, AHiii.| .) iiiic-ScptiMiilnsr.

116

Fig. 412. Phalaris lemmoni, Vasej-, Contrib. Nat. Herl). 3 : 12.
1892. Le.m.mon'.s C'ANAHY-iiijAS.'^.— a rather sleudcr, erect per-
ennial 4 to 10 dm. high, with short, Hat leaves aud spike-like,
cylindrical panicles 4 to 15 cm. long. Spikelets 4 to 5 mm. long,
with acute, wingless outer glumes (a) and lanceolate, acuminate,
l)ul)e8cent flowering glume (/;) nearly as long as the outer ones.—
California. June.

117

Fig. 413. Aristida californica Tliuib. iu Brewer & S. Wats. Bot.
Calif. 2:289. 1880.— Hare's Grass.— A slender, densely tufted,
pubescent perennial, with very narrow involute leaves and race-
mose, few-llowered panicles 2 to 4 cm. long. Outer glumes
unequal; flowering glume shorter than the first glume. Awns
slender, nearly equal, 3 to 4 cm. long, twisted below into a slender
stipe, which is articulated with the flowering glume.— Dry, desert
places, Arizona to southern and Lower California. May.

118

Vui. 414. Aristida dichotoma Michx. Flor, Bor. Am. 1 : 41.
180:1 P<)\F.KTY Grass. — A slender, erect, dichotonioiisly lnaucli-
iiii; annual 1.5 to <> dm. high, with narrow, usually involute
leaves and slender, spike-like racemes or simple panicles 4 to 10
cm. long. Spikelets about 6 mm. long, with nearly equal outer
glumes and narrow, three-awned llowering glumes; lateral awns
2 mm. long or less, the middle awn coiled at the base, 5 to 8 mm.
long. — Dry, saudy soil IVom Canada southward to Florida and
westward to Ontario, Missouri, and 'I'exas. August, September.

119

Fig. 415. Aristida basiramea Engelm. ; Vasey, in Coulter Bot.
Gaz. 9 : 76. 1884. Tufted Triple-awn.— An erect, slender,
smooth, rauch-branclied perennial 1 to 4 dm. liigh, with narrow,
involute-setaceous leaves, and few-flowered, spike-like panicles
6 to 10 dm. long. Empty glumes (a) unequal; middle awn 12 to
18 mm. long, coiled at the base and divergent.— Dry soil, Illinois
and Manitoba, to Virginia and Kansas. August, September.

120

1

Fig. 416. Aristida desmantha Trin. A- Kupr., M<^in. Acad. St.
Petersb. (VI ), 5 : lUl). 1842. M'kstkhn IJrNcii-ouASs. — A slender,
but rather rigid, erect, glabrous perennial 3 to (! dm. high, Avith
narrow, attenuate-poiutid leaves and narrow panicles about 12
cm. long. Spikelets witli the nearly ccinal outer glumes (ft) about
12 mm. long, exceeding the llow(;ring glume (a), which bears 3
nearly equal, reflexed, somewhat (toiled awns about 24 mm. long. —
Dry soil, Kansas ( ?), Indian Territory, and Texas. August.

121

Fig. 417. Aristida spicifonnis Ell. Bot. S. Car. & Oa. 1 : 141.
1817. Spike-like Poveuty Gkass. — A stout, erect pereunial, 3 to
9 dm. liigb, with rather long, linear leaves and densely flowered,
cylindrical, spike-like panicles. Outer glumes much shorter than
the flowering out-, which is twisted above to the spreading or
divergent awns. The middle awn lunger than the lateral ones. —
Moist pine barrens, Georgia and Florida to Mississippi. July-
October.

122

Ku;. 418. Aiistida oligaiitha Mx. Flor. Bor. Am. 1 : 41. 1803.
I'HAiRiE TrirLK-AWN. — A tuftod, nuK'li-braiicbcd native annual,
with slender stems 2 to 4 dm. hi<;;b, loose sheaths, narrow leaves
and lax, fcnv-flowered panicles. — In ]){)or. dry soil from the Middle
States southward to Louisiana and Texas and also in Oregon and
California. .July-October.

123

Fig. 419. Aristida fasciculata Tuir. Auu. Lye. N. Y. 2 : 154.
1826. Dog-town Grass. — A slender or sometimes rather stout,
densely ca'spitose, wiry perennial 2 to 4 dm. high, with narrow,
rather rigid, involute leaves, and contracted, few-flowered pan-
icles 5 to 12 cm. long. Spikeleta usually purplish, with very
unequal empty glumes, the first about one-half the length of the
second, which is 14 to 24 mm. long; the flowering glume usually
about 12 mm. long, terminated by three divergent, nearly equal
awns varying in length from 2 to 10 cm. — Dry soil, Minnesota to
Kansas and Texas, and westward to British Columbia and Arizona.
April-September.

124

Fig. 420. Aristida havardii Vasey, Bull. Ton. Bot. Club, 13 :
27. 1S86. Havai{I)'s Poverty (Jkass. — A slender, erect, braiicb-
iug pereunial, usually about 3 dm. hij^h, witb setaceous leaves
and divaricate-spreading, flexnous panicles 8 to 12 cm. long.
Empty glumes (a), sligbtlj' unequal. Awns spreading, nearly
equal, 12 to 14 mm. long. — Western Texas to New Mexico and
Arizona. August -October.

125

Fig. 421. Aristida divergens Yasey, Contrib. Nat. Herb., 3:
48. 1892. Texas Povekty-grass. — A rather rigid, erect peren-
nial, 3 to 6 dm. high, witli narrow, involute leaves and diffuse
panicles 10 to 16 cm. long. Second glume a little longer than the
first (a), bristle-pointed, and slightly exceeding the flovrering
glubie (h), which is 6 to 8 mm. long. Awn 10 to 12 mm. long, the
lateral awns wanting or nearly so. — Arizona and Texas. August,
September.

12()

Fi(;.422. AiistidafloiidanalChapiu.) Vasey. 1892. {Streptachne
Jloridaiia Cbapm. Fl. S. St. 554.) Florida Ci'Rly Heard.— A
slender, erect, somewhat wiry perennial, abont 6 dm. high, with
nearly filiform leaves and narrow panicles 80 cm. long. Spikelets
(«) with nearly equal, purplish empty glumes and a strongly
involute, linear flowering glume ta])ering into a long, more or less
curved or lUxuous awu; lateral :iwus wanting. — Florida. Sep-
tember.

127

Fig. 423. Stipa aveiiacea Linu. Sp. PI. 78. (^>^. barbata Michx.)
Black Oat-grass. — A smooth, erect perennial 3 to 7.5 piii.
high, with involute, filiform leaves and open, few-flowered pani-
cles 10 to 16 cm. long. Spikelets 8 to 10 mm. long. Awn 3 to 5
cm. long.— Dry open woodlands, etc., Rhode Island to Ontario
and Wisconsin and southward to Florida and Mississippi. April-
.luly.

128

Fig. 424. Stipa avenaceoides Nash, Bull. Torr. Bot. Clnl), 22 :
423. 1895. Fkaiuku (Juass.— A latbrr sleiuler, erect, smooth
pereuuial, 6 to 12 dm. high, with lon^ involute-setaceous leaves
and simple i)anicle8 8 to 20 cm. lonjf. Spikclets few, witii acumi-
nate empty ylumes («), l'> to 20 mm. iu length; (lowering glumes
{!>), including the callus, 14 to 16 mm. long. Awn G to 8 cm. long,
jiuhescent below, twice geniculate. — Florida in pine lauds, near
Cassia, Lake County. March-July.

129

Fig. 425. Stipa comata Trin. & Rupr. Agrost. 3 : 75. 1842.
Nkedle Grass. — A rather stout, erect, cfespitose perennial
3 to 9 dm. high, with mostly involute leaves and loosely-flowered
panicles 16 to 24 cm. long. Spikelets wiih nearly equal long-
attenuate-pointed empty glumes (a) about 24 mm. long, and
thinly pubescent flowering glumes (6) about 12 mm. long. Awn
slender, 8 to 10 cm. long, strongly flexuous or variously curled
and twisted.— Dry sandy soil, British Columbia to California and
eastward to the Dakotas and Nebraska. May-September.
19819— Xo. 17 0

130

Fig. 426. Stipa oregonensis Scribii. new name. (S. stricia
Yasey, not ham.) Narrow-toppkd Feather-orass.— A slcixlor,
iTect, tufted perennial 3 t<> 5 dm. high, with narrow, setaccoiisly
])oiuted loaves and contracted, erect jjauiclcs 8 to 16 cm. long.
Empty glumes (a) lO mm. long, exceeding the thinly pubescent
llowering glumes. Awn 21 to 36 mm. long, pubescent or subplu-
uioso in the lower half. — Oregon and Washington.

131

Fig. 427. Stipa hassei Vasey, Contrib. Nat. Herb. 1 : 267. 1893.
Hasse's Featiikr-grass. — A .slender, wiry, and densely tufted
perennial, 3 to 4. .5 dm. high, with narrow, almost thread-like, erect
leaves and narrow panicles 4 to 6 cm. long. Spikelets aboiitGmm.
long, with narrowly lanceolate, nearly equal, acute empty glumes
(a) which slightly exceed the smooth flowering glume. Awn 16
to 18 mm. long, smooth. — Dry soil, ridges, etc., southern Califor-
nia. April.

132

Fig. 428. Stipa neo-mexicana (Thmlieij. new ooiiil). (5. jjcm-
iiaia neo-mcxicana Thurber in ^"asey, 111. N. Auur. Gras.ses (f - : No.
X, 1891.) Nkw Me.mcax Fkather-guass.— a latlicr stout, erect,
densely tufted perennial 8 to 9 dm. liij;li, with involute leaves and
naiiow, raccaiose panicles 8 to 10 cm. long. Awns 8 to 12 cm.
long, I'eatiier-plnuiosc exct-pting near the base.— High northern
slopes ot the mountains of southern Colorado, New Me.xico, Ari-
zona, and Texas. May-September. Ornamental.

133

Fig. 429. Stipa pringlei Scribn. Contrib. Nat. Herb. 3 : 54.
1892. {Oryzopsis pringlei Beal.) Pkingle's Feathek-grass. — A
slender, erect, cavspitose perennial 6 to 12 dm. high, with long,
flat leaves and loosely few-flowered panicles 15 to 20 cm. long.
Spikelets 8 to 10 mm. long, with acute, 5-nerved empty glumes
(rt), and pubescent flowering glumes {h). Awn slender, about 20
mm. long. — Dry slopes, Texas, to Arizona and California. [Mex-
ico.] .July-October.

154

Fic. 430. Stipa viridula Trin. Mem. Acad. St. Petersb. (VI.)
2: 39. 1836. Fkatiieii BuNiii-iiii.vss.— A slender or rather stout,
Ccespitofse, erect i)erennial ."> to 10 dm. liii:;h, with iiivoliit('-i)ointt'd
leaves and narrow, C(nitracted panicles V2 to 20 cm. long. Spike-
lets with nearly cipial, subulate pointed empty glumes 6 to <J mm.
long, and hairy or pilose flowering glume, which is about 5 mm.
'ong and has a short, obtuse callus. Awn about 24 mm. long,
linally separating I'rom the glume.— Colorado to Montana, and
westward.

155

Fig. 431. Stipa macounii Scribn. Macoun Cat. Can. PI. 5: 390.
1890. (.S'. richardsonii A. Gray, 1856, not Link, 1833.) Macouk's
Stipa.— A slender, densely cjpspitose perennial 3 to 6 dm. high,
with very narrow leaves and few-dowered panicles 4 to 10 cm.
long. Empty glumes (a) about 4 mm. long, the pubescent flower-
ing glumes a little shorter than the empty ones. Awn, 8 to 10
mm. long.— Maine to Lake Superior and northward. July-
August.

\3G

Fig. 432. Stipa ieiiuissima 'liin. Mem. Acad. St. Petersb. {VI. )
2:36. 1830. Sij:ni>kk Fkathku (;h.\s.s.— A sleuder, den.st'ly-
tiifted peremiial 5 to 8 dm. high, with loug, tilifonn haves and
narrow panicles 15 to 20 cui. long. Empty glumes (a), subulate-
pointed, the fiist 12 to 18 n)m., the second 5 to 8 iinn. long; dow-
eling glume (/)) about 2.5 nun. long. Awn He.Kuons, 7 to 8 cm.
long. — Limestone hills, etc., Texas and Xew Mexico. [Mexico.]
August, September.

137

Fig. 433. Stipa bloomeri Boland. Proc. Calif. Acad. Sci. 4 :
168. 1870. (6. si&imaThurb., not Lam.) Bloomer's Stipa.— A
slender, densely ciespitose perennial 3 to 9 dm. high, with long,
narrow or involute leaves and more or less open panicles 12 to 24
cm. long. Spikelets 8 mm. long, empty glnmes (a) acute, one-
fourth longer than the hairy flowering glume {h). Awn 12 to 18
mm. long. — California and Montana.

138

Fic. 434. Stipa coronata Thurber, in Brewer iSc S. Wats. Hot."
Calif. 2 : 287. 1880. Crested Featueij-gkass. — A stout, erect
pereimial 12 to 18 dm. bigb, witb Hat leaves, the lower ones often
9 dm. lonfz;, and erect, narrow, aiul ratber densely llowcicd ])an-
ick'S 3 to 4 dm. long. Spikelets wilb luieiiual, acuminate-pointed
empty glumes (a), the lower one about Ifi mm. long, and silky-
hairy flowering glumes (h), which have a crown of longer (4 mm.)
hairs. Awn slender, about 2 cm. long. — Sandy plains and bill-
sides, Arizona and California. March-September.

159

Fig. 435. Stipa richardsoni Link, Hort. Berol. 2 . 245. 1833.
Richardson's Feather-grass. — A slender, erect perennial H to 9
dm. high, with narrow leaves, and nodding, open, few-llowered
panicles 7 to 12 cm. long. Spikelets (a) 8 to 9 mm. long, the
broadly lanceolate, acute empty glumes exceeding the thinly
hairy flowering glume (/>). Awn slender, scabrous, 12 to 20 mm.
long. — Dry hillsides and open woods, South Dakota, Colorado,
Wyoming, Montana, and Canada. July-September.

Fig. 436. Stipa occideutalis Thurb. Bot. Wilkes Esped. 483.
1874. Westekn Needle-ckass. — A sleutler, erect pereunial 3 to
6 dm. high, -with rigid, iuvolute leaves aud coutracted panicles (3
to 12 cm. long. Spikelets about 10 mm. long, llowering glumes
(b) pubescent, G to 7 nun. long. Awn 3 cm. long, plumose below. —
Prv soil aud rocky banks of the plains aud foot-hills, Nevada,
California, Oregon, aud Washington. May-July.

141

^t\

Fig. 437. Stipa vaseyi Scribn. U. S. Dept. Agr. Div. Agros.
Bull. 11 : 46. 1898. {Stipa riridula \ar. robiistaVasey; not Stijja
robusta Nutt.) Sleepy Grass. — A stout, erect perennial 12 to 18
ilm. high, with long, tlat leaves and erect, densely lloNvered panicles
30 to 45 cm. long. Spikeleta aliout 10 mm. long, with pubescent
flowering glumes {b) 6 to 7 mm. long. Awn slender, about 26 mm.
long. — Colorado, New Mexico, southern California. [Mexico.]
Juue-September.

142

Fig. 438. Stipa scribneri Vnsoy, Hull. 'I'orr. Hot. Club, 11 : 12.'5.
1884. SCHinxKi'.'s Fkatiii:k-(;kass. — A stout, erect, smooth peren-
nial 4.5 to 7.5 dm. liij,^li, witli rather long, narrow, iiivf>lute-
]»ointo(l leaves ami contracted iianicloa 12 to 10 ini. Idui;. S]»ike-
lets 12 to 14 mm. lonjf, with imhcsci^ut llowcrin;; ylinucs (b)
which are (i to 10 mm. long .ind crowned with a tuft ol" rather
long hairs. — Dry soil ol" mesas and canyons, Colorado aud New
Mexico. .Juue-September.

143

Fig. 439. Stipa parishii Xasey, Coult. Bot. Uaz. 7 : .32. 1882.
Parish's Featiiek (;iiA-.s. — A ratli<!r stout, erect, tufted i)ereniiial
3 to 4.5 din. liigli, with Ti<^id, involute leaves and opeu, erect
panicles about 1.5 cm. long. Spikelets 12 to 14 mm. long, with
flowering glumes (h) densely covered with long, silky hairs. Awn
about 18 mm. long. — Dry soil, iiionntaiiis of snuthc^ni and Lower
California. .June-August.

144

Fig. 440. Stipa speciosa 'I'riii. lV Kiipr. Sp. Gram. Stip. 45.
1842. Showy Featiieu-(;kass.— A ratlu?!' istout, erect, cu'spitose
pereujiial 3 to 6 dm. high, with long, narrow, radical leaves and
erect, contracted panicles 12 to 16 cm. long. Spikelets 16 to 18
mm. long, with silky-pubescent llowcriiig glumes (ft) 10 to 12 mm.
long. Awn 3 to 4 cm. long, pluuiose below tlic middle. — Dry soil,
Colorado and Arizona to southern and Lower Califi>niia. [South
America.] April-September.

145

Fig. 441. Oryzopsis webberi (Thuib.) Vasey, Bull. Torr. Bot.
Club, 15 : 49. 1888. {Eriocoma wehheri Tliurb. in Brewer &. S.
Wats. Bot. Calif. 2: 283. 1880).— A slender, wiry, and densely
tufted perennial 1 to 2 dm. high, with rigid, pungent-pointed,
convolute leaves, and narrow, few-llowered panicles. 2 to 5 cm.
long. Spikelets about 8 mm. long with acuminate empty glumes,
and awned flowering glumea which are densely clothed with white,
silky hairs. Awn very slender, aboitt 4 mm. long. — California.

19819— No. 17 10

146

Fui. 442. Oryzopsis juncea (Mx.) ]$. S. V. I'rel.Cat. N. Y. G7.
1888. (Stqia Jinuta M\. ; Uryzopsis canadensis Torr.) Small
Mountain Kick. — An erect, glabrous, slender, tufted perennial
1.5 to G dm. liii;li, with erect, involute leaves and narrow ])aiii-
cles 2 to 5 cm. loufr. tSpikelets H to 4 mm. long, with pubescent
llowcriug glumes which bear a slender, deciduous awn 1 to 2 mm.
long. — Dry, rocky soil and open Avoodlands, Maine to IJritish f'o-
umbia southward to I'ennsylvania and Colorado. May-August.

147

Fig. 443. Muhlenbergia trichopodes (Ell.) Chapm. Fl. S. U.
S. 553. 1860. {Agrosiis trichopodes Ell.) Bunch Haiu-grass. — A
slender, rather rigid perenuial, 6 to 9 dm. Mgh, with veiy narrow,
involute leaves and capillary panicles nearly 30 cm. long. Spike-
lets (a) with nearly e(£ual empty glumes which are hardly more
than half the length of flowering glume {c), which is terminated
by a sliort, straight awn.— Dry piue barrens, North Carolina to
Florida and westward to Texas. July-October.

Ful. 111. Muhlenbergia comata (Thurb.) IJeutli. ; .lour. Liiiii.
Soc. 19 : 83. 1X81. ( f'ancya comata Thurb. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci.
I'hila, 18f)3. 7!». Woolly Duor-SEKD.— A rather stout or slender,
upright i)erennial, 3 to t) dm. liigh, with llut leaves and densely
Howered, more or less lobed, or interrupted panicles, (5 to 8 cm.
long. 8i)ikel('ts about 3 niui. long, with densely silk\ -hairy flower-
ing glumes {b). — Rather moist, broken ground, in mountains and
foothills, Nebraska to Oregon, south to Colorado and California.
July-September.

149

Fig. 445. Muhlenbergia dumosa Sciibn. in N'asey, Contrih.
Nat. Herb. 3:71. 1892. (Sjyorobolns depauperatiis (?) Scribii. iu
Bull. Torr. Bot. Club. 9: 103. 1882.) Shrubby Droi'-skkd.— A
stout, woody, much-branched and leafy perennial, with erer-t or
ascending culms 6 to i) or 12 dm. long, and slender, simple panicles
1 to .3 cm. long. Spikelets about 3 mm. long with short awned
dowering glumes. — Rocky canyons and along streams iu the
mountains of Arizona. [Mexico]. May, Juue.

150

Flc. ilCu Muhlenbergia monticola Hiicklt y, Proc. Acad. N;it.
Sci. I'bila. LSlil', 'Jl.— A slender, wiry, iiuuh-biaiieliod pereiinial
3 to 6 dm. high, with short, narrow leaves and strict (or in aiithesis
spreading) panicles 8 to 20 cm. long. Spikelets with lUHMiiial
empty glumes, the longer second one 2 mm. long and usually
obtuse or toothed at the apex; the narrow flowering glume is
3 mm. long, pilose near the base and tipped with a very slender
flexuose awn 10 to l.T mm. long.— Dry soil, Texas to Arizona.
[Mexico]. August-October.

151

Fic;. 447. Muhlenbergia lemmoni Scribn. Contrib. Nat.
Herb. 13 : 70. 1892. Lemmon's Drop-seed. — A leafy, ascending,
wiry perennial 3 to 6 dm. bigb, much branched at the base, with
narrow, denselj^ flowered, interrupted panicles 6 to 8 cm. long.
Spihelets about 4 mm. long, with lanceolate-acuminate empty
glumes (a), and broadly lanceolate, short-awned flowering glumes
which are densely pubescent below. — Mountains, Texas to Ari-
zona. September.

152

Fk;. 448. Muhlenbergia capillaris Jriu. l.'iiill. litl. 1824.
(StijHi capillaris Lam. 17'Jl.) Bkardkd Haik-grass.— A rij^id,
erect, glabrous, and unbrancbed perennial 6 to 10 dm. liigh, with
long, involiiti' leaves and showy, eay)illary panicles 15 to -iri cm.
long. SpiUelets about 4 mm. long, with nearly equal empty
glumes and smooth llowering glume which bears a slender awn (!
to 18 mm. long. — Dry, sandy, or rocky soil, o])en woods, etc.,
Massachusetts to Florida and westward to Texas
October.

Augn-t-

ir)3

Fig. 449. Muhlenbergia parviglumis Yasey, Contrib. Nat. Herb.
3 : 71. 1892. SMALL-(iLrMEDDKOr-sKKD. — A slender, ereftperon-
uial 3 to 6 dm. liigh, ofteu branching, with rather rigid, narrow
leaves and narrow panicles 8 to 14 cm. long. Spikelets about 3 mm.
long, wilh minute, nearly equal and obtuse empty glumes (a), one-
fourth ti) one-fifth as long as the narrow, sharply two-toothed
flowering glume, which bears a slender awn between the teeth 12
to 20 mm. long. — Texas. September, October.

154

Fig. 450. Lycurus phleoides HBK. Nov. Geu. 1 : 142, t. 45. 1S15.
Tkxax Timothy. — A slender and somewhat wiry perennial 2 to
4.5dMi. high, much brauchL'd and often geniculate at the base, with
narrow, long-pointed leaves and cylindrical, spike-like panicles 3
to 6 cm. long. Spikelets 4 mm. long, with awned glumes, the iirst
glume (C) often terminating in two unequal awiis, the flowering
glume terminating in an awn as long as its(df. — Dry soil on the
plains and mesas, Colorado to Texas and westward to New Mexico
and Arizona. [Mexico.] May-October.

155

Fig. 451. Plileum alpinum Linn. Sp. PI. 59. Alpine Tim-
othy.—A glabrous, erect perennial, 1.5 to 4.5 dm. high, with
flat leaves and cylindrical, ovoid, or oblong, spike-like panicles 1 to
5 cm. long. Empty glumes (a) short-awned 3 to 4 mm. long.—
Moist soil in the mountains, Labrador to Alaska, south to New
England, Arizona, and California. [Europe, A.sia, South Amer-
ica.] June-September.

156

Fig. 45-'. Alopecurus alpiuus .). E. Smith, Engl. Bot. pi. 1126.
1S03. Alpink Foxtail.— a <rl;il)ions, erect perennial 1 to 6 dm.
hifrli, with Hat leaves and cylindrical, ovoid, denscly-llowcred
panicles 1 to 3 cm. long. Spikelcts 4 mm. long, with obtuse,
densely villoii.s outer glumes (a) about the length of flowering
glume, whicli is pubescent near the apex, glabrous below, and
bears upon the back, just below the middle, a slender awn a little
exceeding the glumes. — Moist places, (ireenland, Labrador to
Alaska. [Arctic regions of Europe and Asia.] .July, August.

157

Fig. 453. Coleanthus subtilis Seid. litt. R. & S. Syst. 2 : 276.
1817. {Schmidlia ntriculosa Sternb. 1819; S. subtilis Tratt.)
Moss-grass.— A low, moss-like grass growing iu loose tufts 2
to G cm. high, with short, recurved leaves, inflated sheaths, and
simple panicles 1 to 2 cm. long. Spikelets {a, h) hardly 1 mm.
long, in small, umbellate clusters.— Wet, muddy places, Wash-
ington and Oregon. [Northern Europe.] September, October.

158

Fig. 454. Sporobolus serotinus (Torr.) A. Gray, Man. 577.
1848. (Agrostis aeroiina Torr. 1824.) Late Duop-sf.ko.— A
slendiT, erect perennial 1..5 to 4. .5 dm. liigli, with very narrow,
Hat leaves and delicate, open i)anicles 6 to 18 cm. loni;. Spike-
lets about \.5 mill, long, with the outer glumes (a), about one-
half the length of the lowering glume.— Botrs and wet, sandy
soil, Maine to New Jersey and westward to Michigan. August,
September.

159

Fig. 455. Sporobolus juuceus (Michx. ) Kuutli, Revis. Gram. 1 :
b"8. 1835. {Agrostis jiincciis Michx. Flor. Bor. Am. 1: 52. 1803.)
Rush Gjjass. — A glabrous, erect, sleuder, wiry iierennial with
setaceous leaves, the basal ones 12 to 24 cm. long, and open pani-
cles 6 to 14 cm. in length. Spikelets (a) 2.5 to 3 mm. long, with
very unecjual empty glumes, the first one-fourth to one-third as
loug as the second, which equals the subactite flowering glume. —
Dry, sandy soil, Virginia to Florida and westward to Texas. Feb-
ruary-December.

160

Fic. 456. Sporobolus cryptandrus (Ton.) A. Gray, Man. 576.
1818. {Jfjrustin i.rijptandrtt Torr.) Sand Kish-grass. — An en^ct,
glabrous, cajspitose perennial, 4 to 7 dm. high, witli flat leaves 6
to 12 cm. long, and open jjaniclea 12 to 20 cm. long. Spikelets 2
to '.i mm. long. — Sandy soil, Massacluisetts and I'ennsylvania,
westward to Montana and Washington, southward to Texas and
New Mexico. [Mexico.] June-September.

Ifil

Fig. 457. Sporobolus domingensis (Trin. ) Knnth, Enum. PI. 1:
214. 1833. ( J'ilfa domiiujensis Trin. ; J(jrosils domimjensis Schnltes.)
West Indian Rusii-gras;:-.— .\u erect, glabrous, branching per-
ennial, usually about 3 dm. bigh, with rather rigid, flat, attenu-
ate-pointed leaves and narrow, niany-flowered panicles 5 to 6 cm.
long. Spikelets nearly 2 raai. long.— Saline soil, near the coast,
Florida. [West Indies.] Juno-September.

19819— No. 17 11

162

Fig. 458. Sporobolus-wrightii Scrihn. l\nU. Torr. But. (iiilj,9:
103. 1882. Saccaton. — A stout, erect pereuuial, 10 ti) 18 dm. high,
■with loiijjj leaves ami many-Howered, open panicles 30 to 60 cm.
long. Hpikelets (a) 2 mm. long, with thin, uneciual, empty glumes,
the second nearly as long as the ilowering glume, which is oC
similar texture to the euii)ty ones. — ''Adobe'" soil, Texas, New
^lexico, and Arizona. July-Sej)teniber.

163

Fig. 459. Sporobolus buckleyi Vasey, 111. N. Am. Grasses 1- :
No. 17. 1891. Buckley's Rush-grass. — A rather stout, erect
perenuial 6 to 9 d in. liigli, with long, flat leaves and erect, open
panicles 20 to 35 cm. long. Spikelets (a) about 1.5 mm, long,
with acute, unequal empty glumes, the second being nearly as
long as the smooth, hyaline flowering glume. — Texas. [Mexico.]
July.

HU

Fig. 4fi0. Sporobolus jouesii Vasey, Coult. Bot. Gaz. 6 : 2!i7.
1881. .loNKs' Krsii-GRA.SJS. — A sleuder, wii-y, densely tufted, erect
pciciinial, .S to 4.5 dm. liij^h, Avith nuiiierons slioTt, rigid, involute
ladical leaves, and more or less spreading panicles 3 to (5 dm.
long. .Spikelets about 3 mm. long, with nearly truncate, or erose-
dentatc empty glumes (a, v. d) which are one-thiid to one-half as
long as the acute llowering glume. — Soda .Springs, near Sunmiit,
California. July.

185

Fig. 461. Sporobolus ligulatus Vasey & Dewey, Contrib. U. S.
Nat. Herb. 2 : 518. 1894.— A slender, smooth, upright perennial,
3 to 4 5 dm. high, with narrow, flat leaves, and contracted pani-
cles 8 to 12 cm. long. Spikelets (a) 3 to 4 mm. long, subterete,
with obtuse, nearly equal, empty glumes (fc) which are about one-
half as Jong as the smooth flowiTing glume. — Canyons, western
Texas. September.

Ifi6

Fk;. 4()2. Sporobolus nealleyi Vasey, Bull. Toir. Hot. Club,
15:49. 1888. Nealley's Ku.SI1-(;uass.— A pale green, slender,
densely tufted, erect, perennial 1.5 to 5 dm. high, with more or
less villous sheaths, rigid, Hat, spreading leaves 4 to 10 cm. long,
and oi)en panicles 3 to 8 cm. long. Spikelets (a, b) about 2 mm.
long, with narrow, unequal, empty glumes. — Western Texas and
New Mexico. July.

167

Fig. 463. Sporobolus texanus Vasey, Contrib. Nat. Herb. 1 : 57.
1890. Texan Drop-sekd.— A rntlier slender, rigid perennial
about .3 dm. high, with stiff, flat leaves 4 to 6 cm. long, and open,
capillary panicles 10 to 16 cm. long. Spikelets (a) about 2 mm.
long on capillary pedicels, with unequal empty glumes, the first
about oue-half as long as thespikelet.— .Salt marshes, etc.. Kansas
to Texas. July, August. Closely allied to Sporohulus asperifoUus.

ins

Fig. 464. Sporobolus asperifolius (Need & Mey.) Thnib. in
Brewer & S. Wate. Bot. Calif. 2 : 269. 1880. ( Vilfa aspcri/oHa
Nees A Meyer). Uougii-kkafko Sai-T-gijass. — A sliMider, nuieli-
branched, leafy perennial 1 to 3 5 dm. lii,i;li, with dill'iise panicles
6 to 10 cm. long. Spikelcts 1 to 5 mm. lonn with nearly eiinal,
•.cnte empty glumes (a). — Alkaline soil, Assinihoia to the D:i'<()t:is
,nd Missouri westward to British ('olninl)ia and California.
J une-Septcniber.

169

Fig. 465. Sporobolus thurberi Scribn. U. S. Dept. Ayr. Div.
Agros. Bull 11 : 48. fig. 5. 1898. Thurber"s Rush-grass. — A
slender, very much brauclied and leafy pereunial 1.5 to 2.5 dm.
high, from creeping rootstocks, with contracted, linear, long-
exserted panicles 3 to 5 cm. long. Spikelets straw-colored, 4 to 5
mm. long. Flowering glume (/>, c), are pilose for half their
length. — Xew Mexico( t)

170

Fig. 466. Sporobolus vaginaeflorus (Torr. ) Wood, Classltook
of Bot. 775. 1861. {nifa nujhia'jlora, Torr. 1834.) Southern
I'ovKRTY-GRASs.— A slender, ca-spitose anuiial, 1.5 to 4 dm. high,
with very narrow, short leaves and simple, few-flowered, terminal
and axillary, spike-like panicles wliicli an> abont 2 cm. long and
mostly inclosed in the somewhat inllated leaf-sheaths. Spikelets
2 to 4 mm. long. — Dry flelds and waste places, Vermont to South
Dakota and Wyoming, southAvard to Georgia and Texas. August,
September,

171

Fig. 467. Sporobolus utilis Torr. Pac. K. Ry. Eept. 5 : 36.5.
1853. Apare.jo Grass —A slender, vriry, much branched peren-
nial, with short, spreading, or recurved, involute leaves and nar-
row, simple, few-flowered panicles. Spikelets about 2.5 mm.
long, with the empty glumes (a), about one-half the length of the
obtuse flowering glume.— Swampy places, alongmountain streams,
Avestern Texas to Nevada and southern California. [Mexico.]
January-December.

172

Fig. 468. Sporobolus simplex Scribu. U. !S. Dept. Agr. Div.
Agios. Hull. 11 : 4S, lig. 6. July, 1898. Moi'ntaix Dkoi"-
SEED. — A low, densely citspitosc, leafy aunual 0..") to 1.5 dm.
high, with smooth culms, short, Hat leaves, ami linear iiauicli's
2 to 1 em. long. Spikelets 2 to 2.3 mm. long, with broadly ob-
tuse or truncate empty glumes (a), which are hardly one-hall" as
long as the uiucnmatc-poiuted (lowering glumes. — Moist places
in the motintains of Colorado and Idaho. .Iuly-Sej)tember.

173

Fk;. 469. Sporobolus filiformis (Thurb.) Scribn. New Comb.
( Vilfa dejjauperata fiJiformis Thurb. in S. Wats. Bot. King Exped
376. 1871.) Si.EXDER Rush-grass. — A very slender, densely
tiiited annual 0.8 to 3 (usually about 1.5) dm. higli, Avith short,
narrow leaves, scape-like culms, and linear, few-fiowered panicles.
Spikelets about 2 mm. long. — Moist hoil in the mountains, Wash-
ington to California and eastward to Utah and ( ? ) Colorado.
J uly-Sei)tember.

174

Fig. 470. Sporobolus virginicus Kunth, Revis. Gram. 1 : til.
183:"5. (Agro8tisrir(iinicaL>um.) Seasidk Rush-grass. — Adecuin-
bent, or ereft and more or less branching, b-afv ]><'rennial !.."> to
6 dm. high, with bnig, creeping rootstocks and densely Ibiwered,
spike-like panicles 3 to 6 cm. long. Spikelets 2 to 3 mm. long.—
Sandy shores Virginia to Florida, westward to Texas. [Mcvico
and West Indies.] August-September.

175

Fk;. 471. Blepharcueuron tricholepis (Toit.) Nasli, Bull.
Ton-. Bot. Club, 25: 88. (f) {nifa tricholepis Torr. Pacif. R. Ry.
Rept. 4 : 155. 1857). — A slender, erect, densely ca'spitose perennial
2.5 to 6 dm. liigh, with narrow, glabrous leaves and more or less
spreading panicles 6 to 18 cm. long. Spikelets 2.5 to 3 mm. long,
with the nerves of the dowering glume h) densely clothed with
long hairs.— Dry soil, Utah, Colorado to Texas, and westward to
Arizona. [Mexico.] July-September.

176

Fig. 472. Polypogon littoralis (With.) Smith Comp. Fl. Brit.
Ed. 2, 13. 1816 {A(/rontis littoralis With. I'.ot. Air. Brit. PI. Ed. 3,
2 : t. 23. 1796). Bp:ai{D Grass. — A tufted, slender, or rather
stout perennial, 3 to 6 dm. high, with scabrous, flat leaves and
narrow, densely flowered, much lobed panicles, 5 to 12 cm. lon;^.
Spikelets, 2 to 3 mm. \im<r,, with scabrous, siiliulatc-jxiiiited empty
glumes («) and l)roadly truncate or cmargiuate, awncd flowering
glumes, 1 mm. long. Awn about 2 mm. long. — Wet jdaces Cali-
fornia and Oregon to Vancouver Island. [Europe and South
America.] May, .June.

177

Fig. 473. Polypogon niaritimus Willd. in Nov. Act. Soc. Nat.
Cur. Berol. 3 : 443. 1801. (rideitm criniium Roxlj.) Sea-side
Beard-grass. — Aii erect, slender annual 1.5 to 3 dm. higb, with flat
leaves and densely-flowered, spike-like panicles 2 to 4 cm. long.
Spikelets with two-lobed, awued empty glumes (a), which are vil-
lous at the apex and twice longer than the short-awned floral
glume (b). Awn of the empty glumes 4 to 6 mm. long. — Lower
California and, according to Chapman, along the seashore of
North and South Carolina. [Europe.] June.
19819— Xo. 17 12

178

Fig. 474. Arctagrostis latifolia (R. Br.) Griseb. in Ledb. Flor.
Koss. 4 : 434. 1853. (Colpodhim laiifoliiim TJ. Br. Siippl. App.
Parry's Voy. 286. 1824). Bkoad-leafed Arctic Bent.— A rather
stout, glabrous, erect perennial 1.5 to 6 dm. high, with narrow
panicles 3 to 16 cm. long. Spikelcts 3 to 4 mm. l()ng,with nearly
equal empty glumes (a) shorter than 1ho obtuse, scabrous tlower-
iug glume and palea {b). — (ireenland and Labrador to Alaska.
[Northern Europe and Asia.] August.

179

Fig. 475. Arctagrostis ariindinacea (Trin.) Beal, Grasses N.
Am., 2:317. 1896. {rUfa ariindinacea Trin. Unifl., 157. 1824;
Icon, t., 55. Sporoholns ariindinaceus Vasey. Colpodium arundina-
ceum Hook.). Rked Bent. — A stout perennial 6 to 12 dm. Mgh,
with flat leaves and open panicles 20 to 35 em. long. Spikelets
compressed, with nearly equal glumes (a) about 4.5 mm. long. —
Alaska and British America. [Northeastern Asia]. July, Aiagust.

180

Fig. 47fi. Ciniia bolauderi Scrilm. Proc. Acad. Xat. Sci. I'liiln.
1884. 290. Calii-orxia.n Rki;i)-<;kass. — A .stout, leafy, erect per-
ennial 15 to 22 dm. liijj;li, with loose, open i)aniclcs 2.") to36 cm.
long. .Spikclets about .5 mm. long, with liroadly lanceolate, nearly
equal empty glumes (a), wbich are a little longer than the nearly
sessile floret (&). — California, No. ()0!in, 7'>olauder. August.

181

Fig. 477. Cinna latifolia (Trev.) Griseb. iu Ledb. Fl. Rosa. 4 :
435. 1853. { A(jrosiis hiiifolia Treviran,18?iO; Cinna jjendulaTTin.
1841.) Slender Ixdiax Reed. — A rather ^leucler, smootli per-
ennial, witli erect, simple culms, long, flat leaves 4 to 12 mm.
-wide, and open, nodding panicles 10 to 20 cm. long. Spikelets (a)
;ibont 3 mm. long, with nearly equal, acute outer glumes and short-
awned or nearly awnless flowering glume (/>), which is raised on
a short stipe. — Thickets and moist woodlands, Newfoundland
to liritish Columbia and southward to North Carolina and Utah.
July-September.

182

"»

Fig. 478. Agrostis perennans (Walt.) Tudcerm. Am. Joiirn.
Sci. 45:44. 1813. {Cor)iiic(>}>i<r])ercini(tiis\\'a\t.nSS.) rEiiENNiAi,
Bent or Tiiix Grass. — A slender, sp;iiiii,uly branched, leafy per-
ennial, with weak, ascending culms 3 to 7.5 dm. long, and dilVuse,
capillary panicles 8 to 16 cm. lon.t,'. Spikelets 1..") to 2 mm. long,
with acute empty glumes (a), which are a little longer than th.'
glabrous flowering glume (&). — Damp, shaded places, Maine to
Minnesota and Nebraska, southward to South Carolina and Mis-
sissippi. May-September.

183

FIG. 479. Agrostis geminata Triu. Unifl. 207. 1824. Moun-
tain Bent.— A slender, erect, densely csespitose perennial 2 to 6.o
dm lii"-li, ^vith short, flat leaves, chiefly basal, and capillary,
spreading panicles 5 to 8 cm. long. Spikelets 2.5 to 3 mm. long,
truncate or retuse flowering glumes (?>) about 1.7 mm. long.
—British Columbia to Alaslia. August.

184

Fig. 480. Agrostis rubra Linn. Sp. PI. 02. (A. rujiesirix Chapiii.
not All). llvA) Bent.— A tufted, iili)ine perennial 1.5 to 4 dm.
Ligh, with narrow, flat leaves, open, capillary panicles 5 to 10
cm. long, and awued spikelets («) 2.5 to 3 mm. long. — High moun-
tains, Vermont and New Hampshire to North Carolina and Col-
orado; also in Labrador and Newfoundhuul. [Euroitc] .July-
August.

185

Fig. 481. Agrostis varians Trin. Agrost., l^ : 68. 1841. Slen-
der Bext-GRASs. — A densely ctespitose perennial 1 to 2.5 dm.
high, with flat, erect leaves and contracted, almost spike-like
panicles 3 to 5 cm. long. Spikelets 2.3 mm. long, with nearly
equal, subacute empty glumes (a) and minutely toothed, hyaline,
awuh'ss flowering glumes (h) 1.7 mm. long.— Mountains of Oregon,
Washington, and California July-September.

186

Fig. 482. Agrostis paludosa Sfirilm. U. S. Dept. Agr., Div.
Agios., Bull. 11: 49. fig. 7, 1898. Marsh Bent.— A low, densely
cii-spitose perennial 1 to 1..5 cm. high, with soft, narrow leaves,
and narrow, ratlur densely flowered panicles 3 to 5 cm. long.
Spikelets abont 3 mm. long, with ovate-lanceolate, acute empty
glnmcs (a), which are a little longer than the broadly obtuse and
minutely scabrous dowering glume (''). Palea 0..") mm. long. —
Labrador. August, September.

187

Fig. 483. Agrostis alba Linn. Sp. PI. 63. Herd's Grass or
Rkd-top. — A well known perennial of variable habit, often stolo-
niferous, with smooth culms 3 to 9 dm. high, flat leaves, and erect,
many-flowered, open panicles 4 to 18 cm. long. Spikelets 2 to
3 mm. long, with abruptly acute empty glumes (a), which are a
little longer than the obtuse or truncate flowering glume. Palea
one-half to three-fourths as long as the glume.— Throughout the
United States, excepting in the extreme South. [Europe.] June-
September.

188

Fig. 481. Agrostis verticillata Vill. I'rosp. 16. 1779; Trin. Icon.
Gram. t. 36 (A. sii^hmiftra LJ.) Water Bknt-ghass. — A slenilcr
perennial, wi til flat leaves, erect or decumbent culms, 2 to 6 dm,
lonj^, and densely flowered, more or less iiiterrnpted ]iaiiicles 5 to 2.5
cm. long. Spikelets about 1.. 5 mm. long with nearly ('(jnal, minntelj'^
pubescent, empty glumes («) about one-half longer than tlie
obtuse and minutely dentate, awnless flowering glume. — Moist
places, Utah to Texas, and westward to California. [Mexico,
South America, Europe, and India.] May-August,

181)

V\r.. 185. Calamagrostis cinnoides (Muhl.) .Scribn. Mom. Toir.
Club. 5: 42. 189."). (Jrundo cinnoides yinhl.; Calamagrostis nulial-
liana SteucL). Nuttai.l's Reed-gkass.— A stout, erect pereiiniiil,
9 to IT) dm. lii^li, with liiiher broad, Hat loaves and contracted
panicles (i to 11 dm. long. Si)ii<elet,s (5 to 8 mm. long; iirolongation
of the rachilla (c), bearing at its apex a tuft of hairs.— Moist soil,
Maine to North Carolina and Alabama, and west to Ohio. Angnst,
September.

190

Fig. 486. Calamagrostis breweri Tliui b. iu Brovrer & S. Wats.
Bot. Calif. 2 : 2S0. 1880. Bhewkk's Reed-grass.— A sleuder,
densely tufted perennial, 1.5 to 4 dm. liijib, with numerous, seta-
ceously involute, basal loaves, short eulni leaves and open, few-
flowered panicles 2 to 6 cm. long. Spikclets with nearly equal
glumes wliich are 3 to 4 mm. long, the 4-tootbed flowering glume
with a small tuft of very short hairs on each side at the base
and an exscrted straight awn. — Mountains of California. July,
August.

lyi

Fig. 487. Calamagrostis inexpansa A. Gray in Torr. Fl. N. Y.

2 : 445, t. 152. 1843. {Calamagrostis confinis A. Gray, Man. Ed. 2,
547, not Nutt. ?) BoG Reed-grass. — A slender, erect perennial

3 to 6 dm. high with narrow, flat leaves and contracted panicles
5 to 18 cm. long. Spikelets 3 to 4 mm. long with nearly equal,
acute empty glumes (a) about the length of the flowering glume,
the basal hairs of which nearly equal it in length or are one-third
shorter. — Damp, sanJy soil, New York and New Jersey westward
to South Dakota and Colorado. .July-September.

192

Fi<;. 4NS. Calamagrostis porteii A. Gray, Proc. Am. Acail. 6:
79. 1862. PoRTKU's Rekd Bent.— A sleiulor, erect, glabrous i>er-
ennial 6 to 12 dm. high, with rough, flat loavi-s and uarrow,
rather loosely llowered panicles 8 to 10 cm. long. .Spikeicts 2 to
5 mm. long, with nearly equal glumes, the scabrous outer ones (a)
very acute; the flowering glumn obtuse, scalirous, with the basal
hairs ouo-fourth to one-third its length.— Dry woodlands, Xew
York and Pennsylvania. August.

193

Fig. 4<s9. Calamagrostis scopulorum M. E. Jones, Proc. Calif.
Acad. Sci. (2), 5 : 722. 1895. Broom Reed-grass. — A slender, erect
perennial .5 to 8 dm. high, with flat leaves and narrow, rather
loosely flowered panicles 8 to 12 cm. long. Spikelets with nar-
rowly lanceolate, acnte, empty glumes («) 5 mm. long, very short-
awued or nearly awnless flowering glumes about 4 mm. long, and
short callus hairs. — Wahsatch Mountains, Utah. September.
10819— is^o. 17 13

194

Fig. 490. Calamagrostis vaseyi Beal, (Irasses N. Am. 2 -.'Mi.
1890. Vasey's Rked-gkass.— a densely cicapitose, erect peren-
nial, 6 to 7.5 dm. Ligh, with flat and rather rigid leaves and con-
tracted, spike-like, often interrnpted panicles 0 to 8 cm. long.
.Spikelets abont 4.5 mm. long; flowering glume 3 mm. long with
a nearly straight awn 3 to 4 mm. long.— Mountains of Washington
and Oregon. July, August.

195

Fig. 491. Calamagrostis purpurascens R. Br. iu Eich. App.
Frankl. Jouru. 731. 1823. Purple IJekd-isext. — A rather rigid,
(leusely Ciespitose, erect perennial 3 to 6 dm. high, with firm,
strongly involute leaves and densely llowered, spike-like paniclesB
to 8 cm. long. Spikelets 6 to 7 mm. long; llowering glumes (b)
about 4. .5 mm. long ; awn much exceeding the glumes. — Dry, rocky
soil in the mountains, Colorado to California and northward to
Alaska. July, August.

196

Fig. 402. Calamagrostis niacoiiniana Vasey, Contr. Xat. llcrl).
3:81. 1S92. {Deijetixia viactmniaua \'asey, Coult. l?ot. Ga/.. 10 :
2!I7. 18X5.) Macoun's Keed-isf.xt.— a slender, erect, leafy per-
ennial 3 to 6 dm. liigli, with narrow, flat leaves and narrow or (in
antlicsis) open, pyramidal ]iani(le8 6 to 8 cm. louir. Spikelets
■with nearly equal empty glumes (a) about 3 mm. long, scarcely
exceeding the short-awned flowering glume. — Moist sandj' soil,
AssinilMiia to Missouri, Montana, and Washington. May-August.

197

Fig. 493. Calaniagrostis fasciculata Kearney, U. S. Dept.
Agr., Div. Agros., Bull. 11 : 23, fig. 1. July, 1898. Couch Bent-
GKASS. — A slender, rather rigid, erect perennial 6 to 10 dm. high,
from creeping rootstocks, Avith narrow, mostly erect leaves and
<ontracted panicles 5 to 10 cm. long. Spikelets about 4 mm. long,
M'ith a truncate and 4-dentate floral glume, which has a few short
liairs at the base and ])ear8 an awn on the back below the middle,
which usually exceeds the glume. — Mendocino and Marin coun-
ties, Cal. July, August.

198

Fk;. 49i. Calamagrostis langsdorffii Triu. Gram. Unifl. 225,
t. 4, f. 10. 1824. Langsdokf's Kkkd-hknt. — A stout, erect iktbii-
nial 6 to 12 dm. high, with loug, flat leaves and open, pyramidal
])anie]e8 4 to 12 cm. long. Spikelcts with long-acuminate, sca-
brous, empty glumes (a) 4 to 6 mm. long. — Moist meadows, etc.,
Newfoundland to Alaska and soutlnviird to the mountains of
New England, Colorado, Utali, and northern California. June-
September.

199

Fig. 495. Calamovilfa curtissii (Vasey) Scribn. n. comb.
{Calamagrostis cKrlissii Vasey, Contrib. Nat. Herb. 3:8,5. 1892;
AmmophUa curtissii Vasey, Bull. Torr. Bot. Club, 11:7. 1884.)
Southern Reed-grass. — A rather slender, "wiry, erect perennial
9 to 18 dm. bigh, from a stout rhizome, with narrow, involute
leaves and a contracted panicle 16 to 20 cm. long. Spikelets
about 5 mm. long, with unequal empty glumes (a) and more or
less hairy flowering glume and palea (b) bearing a few short
hairs on the callus. — Low pine barrens, Florida. July, August.

200

Fig. 496. Trisetum muticum (Holaiid.) Siribn. U. S. Dept. Aijr.,
Div. Agros., iJulI. 11 : .50, tig. 10. July, 18!)8. ( Triscium snhsjiioUim.
var. miiticum Hoi.; Trisetum n-olfii Vasey, in part.) Beardless
False Oat.— A rather stout or more often slender, erect, c.ispi-
lose perennial, 3 to 7.,t dm. high with Hat, glabrous, sometimes
pilose leaves, narrow or densely flowered panicles 8 to 18 cm. long.—
Dry sit nations, ISIon tana to British America and southward to Cali-
fornia, ^Vyoming, and Colorado. July-September.

201

Fig. 497. Trisetiim wolfii Vasey, in Bot. AVheeler Exped. 6:
294, t. 27. 1878. Wolf's False Oat.— A slender, erect, tufted per-
ennial, with rather short, flat, scabrous leaves and loosely-flow-
ered, nodding and contracted panicles 5 to 10 cm. long. Spikelets
2-flowered, .5 to 6 mm. long, with lanceolate, very acute, nearly
equal empty glumes (a) and acute, punctate-scabrous, short-
awned flowering glumes (c).— Mountains of Colorado. August.

202

Fig. 498. Trisetum argenteum Scribu. U. S. Dept. Agr., Div.
Agros., Bull. 11 : 19, fig. ?<. .July, ISMS. Sii.VKU Oat-cuass.— A
slender, erect perennial, with smooth culms 5 to 7 dm. high,
minutely scabrous sheaths and leaves and narrow, silvery gray
or ]iurplish panicles 10 to 20 cm. long. .Spikclets 1 to 5 mm.
long, 1- to 2-liowered, with unequal, acute, empty glumes and
minutely scabrous, short-awned lloworing glumes, the tirst one
of which is about I mm. long. — Near Silvertou and Twin Lakes,
Colorado. August.

203

Fig. 499. Avena fatua Linn. Sp. PI. 80. Wild Oat.— An erect,
glabrous annual 6 to 12 dm. liigb, with Hat leaves and spreading
panicles of large oat-like, nodding spikelets. Spikelets 2-to 4-
flowered, with long (1.5 to 2 cm.) empty glumes (a) and pubes-
cent flowering glumes {h) 12 to 18 mm. long. Awns nearly twice
as long as the spikelets. — Fields and waste places from Minnesota
westward; abundant in grain tields on the Pacific slope. [Intro-
• duced from Europe.] June-September.

204

Fig. 500. Bouteloua polystachya (]5entli.) Torr. in Pjicif.
Rail. Rep. 5 : 3(16, t. 10. 1857. {Chvudrosimti itohji^taLhyum
Benth. Bot. A^oy. Sulpli. 56. 1844.) Six-weeks Grama.— A
Kleiidcr and diffusely fsprcading, miioh-brancbed animal, 1 to 4
dm. high, Avitii short, narroiv leaves and 3 to 6 linear spikes
about 2 cm. Ion-;, approximate near the apex of the culm or its
branches. Spikelets with glabrous, uueqnal empty glumes (a),
the larger second one 1.5 mm. long, and 4-lobed ilowcring
glumes (//), which are awned between the lobes and ciliate on
the nerves.— River valleys, etc., Utah to Texas and westward
to southern tJalifornia. [Mexico.] .July-September.

205

Fig. 501. Bouteloua piostrata Lag. Varied. Cienc. 2^ : 141.
1805. Tufted Gra^nia. — A 8len<ler, tufted annual, 1 to 2 dm. high,
with short, narrow leaves and solitary, curved, terminal spikes
1.5 to 2 cm. long. Spikelets witli very unequal, glabrous empty
glumes (a), the second about 4 mm. long, and broadly oblong,
3-lobed and 3-awned flowering glumes which are pubescent on
the back below. — Common on bottom lauds, New Mexico, Colo-
rado, and (?) Arizona. [Mexico.] June-October.

206

Fig. 502. Bouteloua bromoides Lag. Geu. Sp. Nov. 5. 181fi.
{Dinchra bromoides II. B. K. j Spi;lx'E-top. — A rather stout, erect
perennial 3 to (5 dm. high, with flat leaves and 5 to 7 more or less
si)reading spikes, racemose along the upper portion of the culm.
Sjiikelets 5 to 11 in each spike; Jlowering glume 5 to 6 mm. long,
with 3 short awns; imperfect floret (c) raised on a short stipe,
and with 3 long awns and a palea. — New Mexico and Arizona.
[Mexico.] August, September.

207

Fig. 503. Orcuttia greenii A^asey, Coult. Bot. Gaz. 16 : 146.
1891 ; 111. X. Am. Grasses, 2 : 50. Cnico Grass.— A rigid, Cfespilose,
and more or less branching, leafy annual 1 to 2.5 dm. high, with
narrow and rather densely iiowered spikes 2 to 6 cm. long. Spike-
lets (a) compressed, 8 to 12 mm. long, 9- to 15-flowered, with many-
nerved, papillate-pilose and dentate glumes. — Chico, Cal. June.

208

Fi(i. 501. Blepharidachne kingii (S. Wats.) ITackcl in DC.
Moiiog. I'hau. 6 : 261. 1889. {L'reiiiuchloe kiiKjii ,S. Wats, in Bot.
King's Exped. 382, t. 40. 1871.) King's Dksert-grass.— A low,
denselj' tufted piTennial 0.2 to 0.6 dm. bigh, with nnnierons short,
.spreading, lecnrved leaves and deu.sely llowered, suhcapitate pan-
ieh'S partly inclosed in the upper leaf-sliealhs. Spikelet.s .ihout
3-flowered, with lanceolate, acute empty glumes («) 6 to 7 luin
long. Flowering glumes {h) densely hairy at the base aiul along
the keel and marginal nerves, the nerves extending into short
awns, the middle one longest (c).— Dry foothills in the deserts of
Nevada and Arizona. April-.Iuly.

209

Fig. 505. Tiiodia mutica (Torr.) Scribn. Bull. Torr. Bot. Club
10:30. 1883. {Tricuspis mutica Torr. Pac. R. Ry. Rept. 4: 156.
1857.) Slexdkh Triodia. — A sleuder, wiry, erect perennial 3
to 5 dm. higb, with short, narrow leaves and contracted panicles
10 to 20 cm. long. Spikelets 5- to 8-flowered, 8 to 10 mm. long,
w-ith obtuse or emarginateHoweriug glumes (c) which are pubes-
cent on the keel and marginal nerves near the base. — Dry hill-
sides, Texas and Arizona. [Mexico.] April-October.
19819— No. 17 14

210

Fu;. 506. Triodia trinerviglumis ^'ascy, 111. N. Am. Grasses,
1- : No. 40. 1891. Wiky Thiodia. — A slender, erect, Ciespitose
pereunial 6 to 10 cm. liij:;h, with narrow leaves and contracted,
^>l)ike-like panicles 8 to 16 cm. long. 8i>ikelets7- to 9-llo\vered, 6
to 10 mm. long; flowering glumes (b) 4 to 5 mm. long and pubes-
cent on the nerves below. — Dry soil, Missouri to Arkansas and
Avest to Colorado and Arizona. June-September.

211

Fig. 507. Triodia stricta (Nutt.) Vasey, 111. N. Am. Grasses
1-:, No. 38. 1891. {Whuhoria stricta Nutt.) Spiked Trio-
dia.— A stout, erect, ctespitose jiereunial 12 to 11 dm. iiigh, with
rather long, rigid leaves and densely flowered, spike-like pani-
cles 10 to 30 cm. long. Spikelets nearly sessile, 5- to 8-flowered,
4 to 5 mm. long, with lanceolate, acute empty glumes (a) and
oblong, obtuse flowering ghiines (c) which are 2 to 3 mm. long. —
Moist soil, Louisiana and Mississippi to Kansas and Texas. Au-
iinst-October.

212

Fig. 508. Sieglingia decumbeiis Bernli. Syst. Ver/. d. Erluith.
I'll. 40. 1800. (7V(0(/«a rfec((m/v(/(s ]5eauv. Agrost. (57. 1812. Fen-
titca decuinhens Linn. ) Heatiieu-gkass. — An erect or often dccnm-
IxMit, glabrous perennial, witli narrow leaves and simple, con-
tracted panicles 2 to 4 cm. Jong. Spikelets (a) 3- to 5-(lowered, (i
to 10 mm. long, with acute empty glumes and obtusely 3-toothed
flowering glumes (c) which are ciliate on the margins below. —
Newfoundland. Introduced. [Europe, Asia. ] August, Septem-
ber.

213

Fig. 509. Triplasis purpurea (Walt.) Chap. Fl. So. St. 559. (Aira
purpurea Walt. Fl. Car. 78. 1788. Tricuspis purpurea A. Gray;
SieoUngia purpurea Kimtze.) Purple Sand-grass. — A smooth,
erect or spreading, cn'spitoso pereunial 3 to 9 dm. high, with nar-
row, rigid leaves and simple panicles 2 to G cm. long. Spikelets
2- to 5-flowered, 5 to 8 mm. long, with smooth empty glumes («)
and hairy, 2-lobed and short-awned lloweriug glumes (d). — In
sandy soil along the coast, from Maine to Florida and westward
to Nebraska and Texas. July-Octoher.

214

Fig. 510. Molinia caerxilea(L.)Moeuch, Meth. 183. 1794. {Aira
cwrulea I.. Sp. PI. 63; Enodium cceruleum Gaud.) Molinia. — A
rather coarse and rij^id perennial fi to 10 dm. liijjh, with rather
Ktiff leaves and narrow, usually purplish panicles 15 to 30 cm.
long. Spikelets 2- to 4-flowered, 5 to 8 mm. long, with obtuse,
3-nerved flowering glumes about 4 mm. long. — Sparinglj' intro-
duced by ships' ballast and in waste places. [Europe.] August,
September.

215

I'lG. 511. Eragrostis major llust, Gram. Austr. 4: 14, pi. 24.
1809. {Eragrostis poaokhs var. mefiasiachiia A. Gray.) C.\ndy-
GUASS- — A rather showy, much-branched aunual, with erect or
ascendiug stems 1.5 to 9 dm. high. Spikelets (a, b) 5- to 40-flow-
ered, 5 to 16 mm. long and about 3 mm. wide. — Naturalized in
cultivated or waste ground, usually in sandy soil, almost every-
where in the United States and in Ontario. [Europe, Asia,
naturalized in tropical America.] .June-October.

216

Fig. 512. Eragiostis pilosa (Linn.) IJeauv. Agrost. 162. 1812.
{Poa pilona L. Sp. PI. 68.) Slexder Meadow-grass.— A slcuder,
branchin<j annual 1.5 to 4.5 dm. high, with narrow, flat leaf-blades
and open, capillary panicles of small, appressed, 5- to 12-flowered
spikelets (a) 3 to 6 mm. long.— In cultivated fields, roadsides, and
sandy shores, Massachusetts to Illinois and Kansas, south to Flor-
ida, Texas, and Arizona. [Widely distributed in tropical and
warm temj)erate countries.] June-September.

217

Fk;. 513. Eragrostis trichodes (Nntt.) Nash, Bull. Torr. Bot.
Club 22:465. 1895. {Foa trichodes Nutt. ; Eragrostis tenuis A.
Gray, not Steud.) Braxciiing Speau-grass.— A tall perennial
6 to 15 dm. liigb, with rather narrow, elongated, many-flowered
panicles and somewhat rigid leaves. Spikelets 3- to lO-lloworcd,
5 to 10 mm. long, with acute glumes. — Sand-hills and prairies, Illi-
nois to Nebraska, Indian Territory and Texas. July-September.

218

Fig. 514. Eragrostis capillaris Nees, Agrost. Bras. 505. 1829.
{ I'oa cajnllaris Liinn. Sp. P1.68; Foa tenuis FAl.) Lace-GRASS. —
An erect auimal, 15 to 60 cm. Ligli, branching at the base, with
an oblong-ovoid, widely expanded panicle of very small 2- to
I (lowered spikelets, 2 to 'A mm. long. — Dry, sandy fields and road-
sides, Khode Island to Illinois and Missonri, south to Georgia
and Texas. August, September.

219

Fig. 515. Eragrostis obtusiflora Scribu. U. S. Dept. Agr.. Div.
Agros. Bull. 8 : 10, Plate 5. May, 1897. Mexican Salt-guass. —
A rigid, erect, branching perennial 3 to 5 dm. bigb, from strong,
scaly rootstocks, with stiff, pungent-pointed leaves, and more or
less spreading panicles 8 to 14 cm. long. Spikelets 5- to 12-
flowered, 7 to 15 mm. long, the rigid flowering glumes obtuse and
about 4.5 mm. long. — Sandy, alkaline soil, Arizona. Resembles
salt-grass (Distichlis spicata) in habit. August, September

220

Fig. 516. Eragrostis secundiflora Presl, Keliq. Haenk. 1:27(5.
1830. {Erafjrontis ojylejns Torr. ; Voa inierrupta Nutt. not Lam.)
PuiU'LK LoVE-CKASS.— A Smooth iiereunial 1.5 to 9 dm. bigb, with
rather rigid, uarrow leaves and contracted or o^ten panicles 'A to
12 cm. long. Spikelets (a, h) crowded, strongly compressed, 8- to
40-flowered, 6 to 20 mm. long, with acute glumes.— Dry soil,
Florida, Alahama and wcstwanl to Kansas, Indian Territory,
Texas, and (.'alifornia. [Mexico and Central America.] .Iiily-
Novembcr.

221

Fig. 517. Anthochloa colusaua (Davy), Scribuer, u. comb.
{Stapfm colusana Davy, Eryth. 6:110. 1898; Neostapfia colusana
Davy, Eryth. 7:43. 1899.) — A densely ca>spitose, spreading or
ascending, glabrous annual (?) with loose sheaths, rather short,
flat leaves, and densely flowered, oblong or cylindrical, spike-like
panicles 3 to 7 cm. long. Spikelets (a) usually 3- to 5-flowered, 6
to 7 mm. long, with verj' broad, flabelliform, ciliate-fringed flow-
ering glumes (c) about 5 mm. long. Lower empty glumes, when
present, narrowly lanceolate. — Uncultivated alkali " goose-
lands." Colusa County, California.

222

Fig. 518. Melica imperfecta Triii. Gram. Suppl. Bull. Sc. Acad.
St. Petersb. 1:68. 1836; Icou. Gram. l. 35."). (J/, colpodioides
Nees; M. iKivicuides Nntt.) Small-fi.owehed Melic- grass. —
A somewhat skiudcr, erect perennial 6 to i» dm. high, with narrow,
flat leaves and more or less diffusely spreadiuj^f, many-flowered
panicles. Spikelets 1- to L'- flowered, 3 to 5 mm. long, with the empty
glumes (a) shorter than the spikelut; rudimentary Jioret sessile or
nearly so. — Hillsides and grassy mountain slopes, California.
[Lower California.] March-July.

223

Fig. 519. Melica torreyana Scribn. Proc. Acad. Nat Sci. Phila.
1885:47. Turkey's Melic-grass. — A slender, leafy, cajspitose
perennial 6 to 9 dm. bigh, witb flat leaves and more or less spread-
ing panicles 12 to 20 cm. long. Spikelets usually 1-flowered, witb
tbe rudiment of a second flower raised upon a long pedicel; empty
glumes (a) as long as or exceeding tbe flowering glume, wbicb is
minutely pubescent toward tbe apex. — California. May-Sep-
tember.

224

Fig. 520. Melica fugax Bolaml. Proc. Calif. Acad. Sci. 4: KM.
1870; Vasey, III. N. Aiuer. Grasses 2: PI, LXV. Small Melic-
(iKASS — A slender, erect perennial, 1..5 to 3.5 dm. high, fn)iii a
l)ulltou8 l»ase, with flat leaves and few-flowered, narrow itaiiicles
8 to 16 cm. long. Spikelets 6 to 8 mm. long, 'A- to 5-flowcred;
glumes obtuse, the floral ones about 4 mm. long. — Low grounds
lu open pine woods, dry mountain sides, etc., Washington to
(California. May-June.

'^25

J^iG. 521. Melica longiligula Scribn. & Kearney, sp. nov. —
A sleuder, erect, ca-spitose pereuuial, 0 to 7 dm. liigli, with narrow
leave.s, aud strict, more or less interrupted panicles 15 to 20 cm.
loug. Spikelets 3- to 5-tlowered, G to 8 mm. long, ou short, pubes-
cent pedicels; glumes obtuse, minutely scabrous, the outer ones
unequal, the larger second one 5 to 5.5 mm. loug; the first flower-
ering glume 5 to 6 mm. long. Ligule 5 to 6 mm. long. — Southern
California (No. 865. Parish Brothers, 1881).
19819— No. 17 15

22G

\^-

Fig. 522. MelicacalifornicaScribn. Proc Acad. Nat. Sci. Pliila.
1885: 4(). {M.pori aides Torr. in Pacil". K. Ky. Rep. 4 : 157, notNntt. ;
M. bulbosa Thmb. in I'lewer and S. Wats. Bot. California, 2 : oOl,
not Geyerj. Oaufcjkma Mki-ic-cikass. — A slender, erect peren-
nial, fromabnlb-like base, 3to9dm. high, with very narrow leaves
•Mid contracted, densely Uowered piinieles 8 to 1(5 em. long. Spike-
lets abont 8 to 10 nun. long, nsnally with thr(!e perfect tlowers;
llowering glumes obtuse, the liist one about 8 mm. long. — Dry
slopes and ridges, California. April-.) unt\

227

Fig. 523. MelicafrutescensScribn. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila.
1885: 45, pi. 1, figs. 15 and 16. Woody Melic-ghass. — A stout,
leafy pereunial, 6 to 10 din. high, somewhat woody at the base,
with flat, scabrous leaves and rather densely-flowered, strict pani-
cles 10 to 30 cm. long. Spikelets nsually 5-tlowered, about 12 mm.
lo:ig, with the empty glumes (a) nearly as long, the first floral
aiume obtuse, and about 8 mm. long. — Southern California.
1 Lower California, Mexico.] April-June.

228

Fig. 524. Melica inflata Vasey, Contrib. Nnt. TTerb. 1 : 200. 1893.
Inflated ■Mei.ic-crass. — An erect, leafy perennial, 'J to 18 dm.
high, bulbous at the base, with Bpreading, simple pauicles 12 to
20 cm. long. Spikelets 12 to 18 mm. long, 6- to 8-Ho\vered, with
subacute, scabrous flowering glnnies (b) about 8 mm. long. —
Mountains of California. June, July.

Allied to M. californica.

229

Fig. 525. Melica haifordii Boland. Proc. Calif. Acad. Sci. 4:
102. 1870; Thurb. iu Brewer aud S. Wats. Bot. California 2:
305. Harford'.s Mklic-gkass.— a rather slender, erect, wiry
perennial, 6 to 15 dm. bigh, with narrow, flat leaves aud erect,
narrow, light-green or straw-colored panicles, 10 to 20 cin. long.
Spikek'ts 12 to 16 mm. long, 4- to 8-flowered, the flowering glumes
8 mm. long, usually short-awned, and ciliate with long, shiuing
hairs for two-thirds of the margin below. — Mountains of Cali-
fornia, Oregon, and Washington. June, July

230

Fi(}. 526. Melica subulata (Hong.) Scribn. Proc. Aiad. Nat. Sci.
I'hila. 1«85. 47. (Festiica mihnlaia }Um}r. \eg. Sitch. ITS. 1831;
Melka acuminata Holaiid.) Slendku-Flowkiikd Melic-ghass. —
An erect, leafy peniimial, it to 12 uiii. liigli, from a bulbous base,
with flat leaves and rather lax panicles 10 to 20 i-iu. long. Spike-
lets ;•{- to .")-llow(ired, witli long-attciiuate i)ointed llowering
glumes, about 12 mm. long, ciliate on the margins and hirsute on
the back below, — Shaded canyons and damp woodlands, British
Columliia to California, east to Montana. May-September.

231

Fig. 527. Melica smithii (Porter) Yasey, Bull. Torr. Bot. Club
15:294. 1888. (Avena smithii T. C. Forter.) Smith's Melic-
GRASS.— A slender, erect perennial, 5 to 10 dm. high, with flat
leaves, and spreading panicles 12 to 24 cm. long. Spikelets 3- to
6-tlowered, 20 mm. long, with unequal emptj' glumes and awued,
glabrous flowering glumes (&) about 10 mm. long. Awn one-
fourth to one-half as long as the glume.— Moist woodlands Michi-
gan, Montana, Washington, and British Columbia. June-August.

Allied to M. arisfala. Thurb.

232

Fig. 52S. Melica aristata Thiirb. in Brew. & Wats. Bot. Calif.
2:30."j; Bol. I'loc. Calif. Acad. 4 : KW. Bkahded Mr.uc guass.—
A slender, tufted perennial, 4 to 10 dm. liigli, witli (lat, usually
pubescent leaves .-ind narrow panit-les lOto 25 cm. long. Spikclets
vi- t().5-llo\vered,with uneiiual empty glumes Ca), and awned flower-
ing glumes, which are 10 to 12 mm. long and have a few stiff, mar-
ginal hairs near the base. Awn 8 to 11 mm. long. — Wa.shingtou
to Califoriiia. .lunc, .Tulv.

233

Fig. 529. Pleuropogon californica (Nees) Vasey. 111. N. Am.
Grasses 2: No. 68. 1893; {Lojjliochlana califoniica yeen Aun. 'Sat.
Hist. (ser. 1.) 1:283. 1838; Hook. &. Arnot, Bot.Beechy 403, t. 95.)
California Pleuropogon. — A pale greeu, tufted perennial, with
soft or rather weak culms 3 to 6 dm. high, flat leaves, and termi-
nal racemes of 6 to 12 erect or spreading spikelets about 2 cm.
long. Flowering glumes scabrous, about 6 mm. long, with a
rough awn of nearly equal length. — Low, moist grounds, Cali-
fornia. May.

234

Via. 530. Uniola longifolia Scribn. Bull. Ton-. I?ot. Clul. 21:
229. 18!>4. L()X(;-i,E.\iKi) SriKixiUA.ss. — A ratlier stout, peren-
nial 6 to 12 dm. high, with long (the lower ouea 30 cm.), flat leaves,
and narrow panicles 15 to 45 cm. long. Spikelets (a) 3- to 4-flow-
ered, 7 to 8 mm. long, with 9- to ll-nerved tloweriug glumes, 3 5
to 5 mm. long. Lower slicath.s more or les.s pubescent. — In dry
soil, low woods, and thickets, or in hummock laud, East Tennes-
see to Florida, Texas, and Indian Territory. .Inne-September.

235

Fig. 531. Uniola sessiliflora Poir. Eucyc. 8 : 185. 1806. ( U)nula
nitida Ell.). Short-stalked Uniola.— A rather slender, wiry
perenuial 3.5 to 9 dm. high, with flat, spreading leaves, and sim-
ple, rigid panicles 5 to 20 cm. long. Spikelets (a) strongly flat-
tened, 6-to8-tiowered, 12 to 16 mm. long, with sharply acuminate-
pointed empty glumes 6 to 8 mm. long.— On hummocks in shady
swamps near the coast, Georgia to Louisiana. June-October.

236

Fig. 532. Disticlilis texana (Vasey) Scribn. new comb. {Voa
<fj-«no Vasey, (Jontril). Nat. Herb. 1 : (JO. 1890; Siviilingia irrh/hiH
Vasey, loc. tit., 269. 1893.)— Aratbor stout, rigid, glabrous, rrtep-
ing or stolon iierous perennial 3 to 6 dm. higli, witb flat leaves and
densely llowered, narrow panicles 10 to 20 cm. long. Staminate
spikelets (o) compressed, 5- toT-flowercd; pistillate spikeltts sub-
terete, fusiform, 12 to 2."> mm. long. — Western Tex;is, New Mexico
(No. 2038 C. Wright). [Mexico.]

Fk;. 533. Poa annua Linn. Sp. PI. 68. Low Spear grass or
SuMMKR-GRASS. — A low, tuftecl annual, with erect or ascendinjf,
somewhat flattened stems 0.5 to 3 dm. high, smooth, flat^ spread-
ing leaves, and short, pyramidal panicles. Spikelets (a) 3- to
6-flowered, about 4 mm. long, with slightly unequal empty
glumes and obtuse flowering glumes which are hairy on the
nerves below and pilose at the base. — Fields and waste places,
•looryards, etc., throughout the United States and British America.
[Europe.] April-September.

238

Fig. 534. Poa bigelovii Vasey & Pcribn. C^ontrib. U. S. Nat.
Herb. 1:270. 1893. Bigki.ow's I{mk-(;ka.ss.— A slender, smooth
annual 1 to G dm. bigh, with liat leaves and narrow panicles 4 to
12 cm. long. Spikelets (a) 4 to (5 ram. lonjj;, 3- to S-flowered, with
the acute empty glumes n.inly as Ion;:' as the dowering ones,
which are 3 to I mm. long, and villous on the keel and on the
lower half of the marginal nerves, with long, cobwebby hairs at
the base.— Moist soil, Colorado southward to Texas, New Mexico,
Arizona, and Call forn ill. [Mexico.] A])ril-.Tnly.

239

Fk;. 535. Poa debilis Torr. Fl. N. Y. 2 : 459. 1843. Slender
Spear-grass. — A slender, erect, smooth perennial 3 to 7 dm. bigh,
with rather short, fiat leaves and nodding, few-dowered, open
panicles 4 to 12 cm. long. Spikelets 3 to 4 mm. long, 2- to 4-
flowered with uneqnal, acute empty glumes (a), broadly obtuse
and scarions-tipped dowering glumes which are conspicuously
webbed at the base. — lu rocky woodlands, Nova Scotia and New
Brunswick, southward to Pennsylvania and westward to Minne
sota. May-.July.

240

Fig. 536. Poa alsodes A. Gray, Man. Ed. 2 : 562. 1856. Woon-
LAN'i) Ri.CE-CKASS.— A sIciuUt, orc.ct, sniootb perennial 2 to 6 dm.
high, with Hat leaves and open panicles 5) to 20 cm. long. Spike-
lets (a) 5 ram. long, 2- to 3-Howered, with very acnte glumes, the
outer ones uuequai, the flowering glumes (h) ahoiit 4 mm. long
with a long tuft of cobwebby hairs at the base.— Thit Ivets and
open woodlands, Nova Scotia to Ontario and Minnesota, south
ward to North Carolina and Tennessee. May, June.

241

Fig. 537. Poaleptocoma Bong, de Veget. ins. Sitch. 170. 1831.
Slender Mountain Blue-grass. — A slender, erect perennial,
about 3 dm. high, with flat leaves and delicate, open panicles, 4 to
8 era. long. Spikelets 3-flowered, about 6 mm. long, with slightly
unequal empty glumes (Z») and liuear-lanceolate flowering glumes,
which are villous on the keel and marginal nerves beh)w, and
webbed at the base. — Wet, boggy places, mountains of Colorado,
northward to Alaska. July, August.
19819— No. 17—16

242

Fig. 538. Poa reflexa Vasey & Scribn. Contrib. Nat. Herb., 1:
276. 1893. Nodding Blue-grass.— A slender, erect perennijil.witb
soft, flat leaves and open, pyramidal panicles Avitb capillary,
rather distant and finally rellexcd branches. Spikelets (a) 3 to
4 mm. long, 2- to 3-flowered; empty glumes nearly equal; flower-
ing glumes ovate-lanceolate, obtuse, jiubescent on the middle and
lateral nerves, and webbed at the base.— Wet, boggy places,
mountains of Wyoming and Colorado to Washington and British
America. July, August.

243

Fig. 539. Poa trivialis Linu. Sp. PI. 67. Rough-stalked
Meadow-grass. — An erect, usually slender perennial 3 to 9 dm.
high, with flat leaves and open, many-flowered panicles, 6 to 1.5
cm. long. Culms usually rough near the panicle. Spikelets 2- to
3-flowered, about 3 mm. long, with Tery acute empty glumes (a),
and strongly 5-nerved flowering glumes, silky-pubescent on the
keel below and with long, cobwebby hairs at the base. — Meadows
and roadsides throughout. [Europe.] May-August.

244

Fig. 540. Poa occidentalis Vasey, Contr. Nat. Herl). 1 : 274.
1893. Westekx Blue-gua.'^.'^.— a sleDcler or somewhat stout, leafy
perennial 5 to 8 dm. high, with oiten, loosely flowered panicles 15 to
30 cm. long. Spikelets 4 to 6 mm. long, mostly 3-flowered. with
acute empty glumes and obtuse floral glumes, which arc 3 to 4
mm. long and slightly pubescent on the keel below, with a distinct
tuft of cobwebby hairs at the base.— In moist soil, New Mexico
northward to Colorado and Wyoming; also (?) Alaska. June-
September.

245

Fig. 541. Poa tracyi Vasey, Bull. Torr. Bot. Club, 15 : 49. 1888.
Tracy's Blue-grass. — A rather stout, erect perenuial 5 to 10 dm.
high, with fiat leaves and open panicles 15 to 25 cm. long. Spike-
lets clustered near the ends of the branches, 3- to 4-flowered,
about 5 mm. long, with obtuse glumes, the floral ones nearly 4 mm.
long and white pubescent on the back below, ciliate-hairy on the
marginal nerves and keel. — Moist soil, Colorado and New Mexico.
June-August.

246

Fio. 542. Poa arachnifera Torr. Marcy. Expd, Red Kiv. Bot. 301.
1853. Texas Blue-grass. — A hardy perennial 3 to 9 dm. h\<i;h,
with strong, creeping rootstocka, long. Hat leaves, and niirro\v,
rather densely flowered panicles. Spikelets ovate-lanceolate, 3- to
7-flowered, 4 to 8 mm. long, with acute empty glumes, ;ind (in the
fertile plants) very hairy flowering glumes.— -A native of Texas,
and introduced into cultivation in some of the Southern States.
April-.June.

247

Fig. 543. Poa fendleriana (Steutl.) Vasey, 111. X. Am. C4rasses.
2 : 74. 1893, in part. {Era(jrost[s fendleriana Steutl., Gram, 278.
1855. Fendler's Blue-Grass. Mutton Grass. — Au erect, cses-
pitose perennial 3 to 6 dm. liigh, with nnmerous, rather narrow
basal leaves and narrow panicles -1 to 8 cm. long. Spikelets 4- to
8-flowered, 7 to 8 mm. long. Flowering glumes pubescent below
on the keel and marginal nerves, otherwise smooth. — Mesas and
dry hills, Colorado to Arizona and California. April-June.

248

I'iG. 544. Poa compressa Linu. Sp. I'l. (><). Canai>a Blttk-
GRASS. — A sloiulor but rather rigid aud somewhat wiry peren-
nial, with strongly llattened stems 1.5 to 5 dm. high, and usually
small, narrow, few-llowcred i)anicle8. Spikelets («) .3- to 5- (rarely
7- to (•-) flowered, 4 to 6 mm. long, with acute 3-nerved empty glumes
and ratlua- llrm, obscurely nerved flowering glumes 2 to 3 mm.
hmg, sparingly pubescent toward the base. — Dry meadows and
waste places, Newfoundland to .South Carolina, Tennessee aud
westward. [Europe.] May-Septemlni-.

249

Fig. 545. Poa bolanderi Vasey, Coult. Bot. Gaz. 7 : 32. 1882,
111. N. Am. Grasses, 2 : 73. Boi.ander's Spear-grass. — A smooth,
loosely tufted, erect perennial 3 to 6 dm. high, with short, flat
leaves and spreading iianicles 8 to 12 cm. long. Spikelets (a) l-to3-
llowered,3 to 4 miii. long, with unequal empty glumes and ovate-
ohlong flowering glumes (/)), which are about 2.5 mm. long and
nearly smooth except for a slight weh at the base. — Mountains
of California and Oregon. March-August.

250

Fk;. 546. Poa nemoralis Linu. Sp. PI. U'J. Xoktiiekn Si-kak-
GKASS or Wood Mkadow-ghass. — A slender, erect, aiul rather
rigid iierennial 1.5 to 6 dm. liiiih, witli narrow, flat leaves and
nsnally open panicles 4 to 10 cm. long. Spikclots 2- to 5-flowered,
3 to 5 mm. long, with very acute empty glumes (a) aud faintly
nerved flowering glnmes, which are 2 to 3 mm. long and webbed
at the base.— Dry or rather moist soil, Labrador and Xcwfonnd-
laud to Pennsylvania, westward to British Columbia, Idaho, and
Colorado. [Europe, Asia.] .lune-Soptember.

251

Fig. 547. Poa lettermani Vasey, Coutiib. Nat. Herb. 1 : 273.
1893. Letteuman's Blue-gras.s.— A densely tufted, low perennial
0.5 to 1 dm. high, with loose sheaths, short, flat leaves and oblong,
rather densely-flowered panicles 1 to 2 cm. long. Spikelets 3 to 4
mm. long, with rather broad and nearly equal empty glumes (a)
exceeding in length the adjacent flowering glumes, which are 2 to
3 mm. long, obscurely nerved, obtuse, and glabrous.— Summits of
high mountains, Colorado. .July, August.

252

Fig. 548. Poa pattersoni \'as(iy, Coutrib. Nat. Herb. 1:275.
1893. Pattkusox's lil.tixJitAss. — A low, densely tufted perennial
1 to 1.5 dui.bigb, witb iiunicious basal leaves, 4 to G cm. long and
oblong, den.sely flowered panicles. Spikelets 2- to 3-flowered 4 to 6
mm. long witb nearly c<inal, acute emiity glunie-s nearly as long as
Ibe lloral ones (4 mm.) wbicb ;ire pubescent on tbe lateral nerves
and keel below tbe middle but not webbed.— Higb mountains of
Colorado. August.

253

Fig. 549. Poa pringlei Scribn. Bull. Torr. Bot. Club 10 : 31.
1883. Pringle's Blue-grass.— A densely tufted perennial from
a creeping rootstock, with rather firm, spreading, smooth, narrow
leaves and slender, scape-like culms 1 to 1.5 dm. high. Panicles
contracted, few-flowered, usually about 2 cm. long. Spikelets
3- to 5-flowered, 6 to 8 mm. long.— Moist places, high mountains,
California and (?) Oregon and Washington. August, September.

254

Fig. 550. Poa leckeubyi Sciibu. U. S. Dept. Agr., Div. Agros..
Cir. 9 : 2. 1899. Sand Bluk-grass. — A pale green, tufted peren-
nial 6 to 8 <lni. high, with long, iiaiTow, Hat leaA'es, somewhat
iiiliated, persistent basal sheaths and pale, rather narrow pau-
iclt'S about 10 to 15 cm. long. Spikelets obloug-lauceolate, 5- to
6-flowered, 9 to 11 mm. long, with subequal, 3-nerved, acute
empty glumes («) and scarious-margined llowcriug glumes (c),
wliich arc pubescent on the back below, especially on the keel and
marginal nerves. — Dry and very sandy soil, AVashington. June.

A valuable hay grass lor ' ery sandy soils.

255

Fig. 551. Poa nevadensis Scribii. Bull. Torr. Bot. Club 10:
66. 1883. Nevada Bi.ue-grass. —An erect, rather stout ijerenuial,
with flat leaves and narrow panicles 10 to 25 cm. long. Spikelets
lanceolate-oljlong, 3- to 8-flowered, 6 to 12 mm. long, with slightly
unequal empty glumes (a) and oblong-elliptical, usually obtuse,
flowering glumes, which are 4 to 5 Dim. long and strongly sca-
brous on the keel. — Moist soil. North Dakota to British Columbia,
and southward to Nebraska and Nevada. May- August.

256

Fig. 552. Poa lucida Vasey, Contrib. Nat. Herb. 1: 274. 1893.
Yellow Spear-gra.s.>^.— A slender, tufted pereuuial, 4 to 6 dm.
high, with flat leaves and narrow but lax panicles 10 to 15 cm. long.
Spikelets (a) G to 8 mm. long, 3- to 4-ilo\vered, with obtuse glumes,
tlie (lowering ones 4 mm. long and slightly pubescent on the keel
and lateral nerves near the base.— Dry, rocky places, moist brook-
sides, canyons, etc., alt. 1,500-3,300 ni.; mountains of Colorado^
Wyoming, Montana, and British Columbia. July-September.

257

Fig. 553. Poa unilateralis Scribn. iu Vasey 111. N. Am. Grasses,
2= : No. 85. 1893. One-sided Blue-grass. — An erect, densely
tufted, leafy perennial, 2.5 to 5 dm. high, with soft, narrow, basal
leaves and densely flowered, usually one-sided panicles 2 to 6 cm.
long. Spikelcts 4- to 7-flowered, with acute glumes, the floral
ones 4 mm. long, a little pubescent near the base, but not webbed. —
Bluffs along the coast, California. April, May.
19819— No. 17 17

258

Fig. 554. Poa giacillima ^':lsey, Coutrib. Xat. Herb. 1 : 272.
1893. Slender Speak-(;i:ass.— .\ smooth, deusely tnfted, erect
perennial, with soft, narrow. Hat leaves and open panicles 8 to 10
ciM. long. Spikclets (a) 3-to 5-llowcred, 6 to 8 mm. long, with rather
distant lloretH, acnte empty glumes and obtuse flowering glumes,
which are 3 to 4 mm. long and scabrous or pubescent on the keel
and nerves below.— Dry. rocky soil on ridges and mountain sides,
central and northern California to Washington and British Colum-
bia. May-August.

259

Fig. 555. Poa cusickii Yasey, Contrib. U. S. Nat. Herb. 1 : 271.
1893. Cusick's Blue-grass. — A densely c;espitos6, glabrous
perennial, 3 to 4 dm. high, with very narrow leaves and con-
tracted panicles 6 to 10 cm. long. Spikelets (a) 3-to 5-flowered,
8 to 10 mm. long, with acute empty glumes aud lanceolate, acute
tiowering glumes which are 5 to 6 mm. long and finely scabrous on

the back, at least below.
June.

-In canyons, Oregon and Idaho. May,

260

Fig. 556. Poa nudata Sciibn., Cir. U. S. Dept. Agr., Div. Agros.
9: 1. Feb. 24, 1899. {Poa capiJIaris Scribu. U. S. Dept. Agr..
Div. Agros., Bull. 11 : 51, fig. 11. July 20, 1898, uot Linn.) FiXE-
LEAFED Blue-guass.— A slcnder, erect, densely cu-spitose peren-
nial 3 to 4 dm. liigh, with capillary, flexuous basal leaves and
long-exscrted densely flowered panicles 3 to 5 cm. long. Spikciits
3- to 5-flowered, 7 to 10 mm. long, with broadly lanceolate, acnte
empty glumes; flowering glumes 4 to 5 nun. long, scabrous on the
back, with short, appressed hairs near the base. — California.

261

Fig. 557. Poa purpurascens Vasey, Coult. Bot. Gaz. 6 : 297.
1881. Purple-top Blue-grass. — A tufted, erect, soiuewLat wiry
perennial, 2.5 to 3.5 dm. high, with flat leaves and rather densely
flowered panicles 4 to 6 cm. long. Spikelets ovate, 3- to 5-flowered,
5 to 7 mm. long. Floral glumes obtuse, minutely scabrous on
the back and hispid-ciliate on the keel. — Moist hillsides and
meadows, California northward to British Columbia. July,
August.

262

Fig. 558. Poa tenerrima Scrilm. V. S. Dept. Agr., Div. Agios.,
fMr. 9:4. 1S0!». Si-ENDkh-klow kkkd I{i,uk-gi:ass.— A very .sIcmi-
«1er, erect, ca'Spitose perennial, IJ to 5 dm. liigli, with sliort, lilifonii
leaves and spreading, capillary panicles 7 to 9 cm. long. Spike-
lets 3- to 4-llo\vcred, aWout 7 mm. long with acute empty glumes
anil ohtu.se llowering glumes, which are smooth excepting for a
short, crisj) puhesceuce near the hase, and are ahout 4 mm. long. —
California.

263

Poa vaseyochloa Scribn. U. S.

Dept. Agr.

Div.

Fig. 559.

Agros., Cir. 9 : 1. 1899. {P. pidchella Yasey.) Vasey's Blue-
grass. — A slender, ca'spitose perennial -with short, filiform leaves,
sruootb, erect cnlms 1 to 1.5 dm. bigb, and delicate, open panicles
2 to 3 cm. long. Spikelets 3- to 5-flowered, 6 to 8 mm. long, with
short, and usually obtuse outer glumes (a), and scabrous, obtuse,
flowering glumes (c). — Moist places among rocks, Idaho, Wash-
ington, and Oregon. April, I\Iay.

204

Fig. 560. Poa argentea Howell. BviU. Torr. Bot. Club 15 : 11.
1888; Vasey, 111., N. Am. Grasses, 2: No. 72. Silvery Bli e-
GRASS.— A slender, smooth, densely ciuspitose, erect perennial 1.5
to 2.5 dm. liij;li, Avitli llat leaves and narrow, oblong, ratlier loosely
flowered panicles 2 to 4 cm. long. Spikelets (« ) oblong-lanceolate,
2- to 3-flowcred, 6 to 7 mm. long, with thin, oblong, obtuse glumes,
the lloral ones {b) smooth, 4 to 5 mm, long.— In the mountains
of western Oregon. Julv.

265

Fig. 561. Poa glumaria Triu. Mem. Acad. St. Petersb. (VI)
1:379. 1831. Large-floweked Blue-grass. — A stout, erect,
smootli perennial 3 to 9 dm. high, from strong, creeping root-
stocks, with thick, flat leaves, closely flowered, contracted pani-
cles 8 to 16 cm. long. Spikelets 3- to 5-flowered, 8 to 12 mm. long ;
with nearly equal, acute, firm, empty glumes (a), and broadly-
ovate flowering glumes which are 4 to 5 mm. long and pubescent
on the margins and keel below, not webbed. — Nova Scotia, Que-
bec, and westward to Alaska. May-September.

266

Fig. 562. Poa douglassii Nees, Ann. Nat. Hist. 1: 284. 1838.
Tliurb. in Brewer and S. Wats. Bot. Calif. 2 : 314. {Jlrizopurum
doiifilassii Hook. & Am.) Douglass' Sand-grass.— A slender,
tnl'ted perennial, 1.5 to 3 dm. high, from long, creeping root-
stocks, with nnmerous, convolute radical leaves, ilat culm leaves,
and densely llowerod panicles 2 to 4 cm. long. Spikelets 3- to 5-
flowered, about 8 nun. long, witli acute empty glumes {a c) and
acute flowering glumes which are 6 mm. long, ciliate-pubescent
on the keel above, and softly hairy or more or less crisped-wo(dly
bp,],,^v. — In sands along the coast, California and northward.
May.

An excellent sand binder.

2G7

Fig. 5fi3. Colpodium pendulinum (Laest.) Griseb. in Letleb.
Flor. Ross. 4 : 386. 1853. Nodding Colpodium.— A smooth,
erect perennial 6 to 7 dm. high, with flat leaves and open, nod-
ding panicles about 12 cm. long. Spikelets (a) oblong, 4- to 6-
flowered, 4 to 6 mm. long, with smooth, nearly equal empty
glumes and broadly ovate-oblong flowering glumes which are 3
to 3..5 mm. long, with a few short hairs at the base.— Moist banks,
British America and Alaska. [Northern Europe.] July, August.

2G<S

Fig. 564. Colpodium fulvum (Triii.) Griseb. iu Ledeb. Flor.
Ross., 4: 38.5. 1853. {Poa fiilra Trin. Mem. Acail. St. Petersb.
Ser. 1, 6:378. 1845. Craphephontm fulrnm A. Gray). Yellow
Colpodium.— A rather stout, erect, leafy, and glabrous perennial,
2 to 6 dm. high, with flat, sharp-pointed leaves and o])en panicles
8 to 15 cm. long. Spikelets 4- to G-llowered, 5 to (i mm. long, with
broadly lanceolate empty glumes («) and obtuse flowering glumes
about 4 mm. long.— Moist situations, British Columbia to Alaska.
[Greenland and Northern Europe.l August.

269

Fig. 565. Dupontia psilosantha Knpr. Flor. Samaj. Cisaral.
65, t. 6. 1845. {Graplicphorum Jhheri j>s(7os((»//((//*t A. Gray.)
Slender Dupontia. — A slender, erect, glabrous perenuial 2 to 4
dm. bigh, from a creeping rootstock, witb flat, attenuate-pointed
leaves and contracted or, in antbesis, spreading jianicles 7 to 12
cm. long, Spikelets 2- to 3-flowered, G to 7 mm. long, with broad
and usually obtuse empty glumes (a) and obovate, obtuse, gla-
brous flowering glumes. — Xewfoundlaud, Hudsons Bay to Alaska.
[Arctic-.Siboiia.] August, Sei)tember.

270

Fig. 5G('). Dupontia fischeri T?. Br. in Parry's Voy. App. 291.
1824. Fisiikk'-s DuroNTiA.— a slender, erect pereuiiial 1 to 2.5
ilni. liigli, from a creepini;- rootstock, with ilat, attenuate-poiuted
leaves and contracted, simple panicles 4 to 7 cm. long. Spikelets
2- to 3-flowerod, G to 7.5 mm. long, with lanceolate, acute empty
glumes (rt), and obtuse or acutt> tlowering glumes which are silky-
pilose on the back toward tlic base. — Moist situations, Arctic
America. [Siberia.] .June-August.

271

Fig. 5G7. Scolochloa festucacea (Willd.) Liuk. (Arnndo fes-
Uicacea Willd. Emim. 1: 126. 1809.) SriiANOLE-roP. — A stout,
erect, glabrous perennial 9 to 1.^ dm. high, with long, flat leaves
and open panicles 16 to 30 cm. long. 8pikelets 3- to 5-flowered, 6
to 8 mm. long, ■« ith nue(inal, acute, onter glumes (a) and 7-nerved,
scabrous flowering glumes which have a tuft of hairs at the base. —
Wet grounds or in shallow water, Minnesota, Iowa to Nebraska,
and northward. [Northern Europe.] June-August.

272

Fig. 508. Panicularia acutiflora (Ton.) Kiiutze. {ahjcerla
acutijlora Ton: I'l. C. S. 1 : 104. 1821. ) Acutk-flowered Manna-
grass. — A rather slender, glabroua perennial 3 to G dm. liigli, with
ilat leaves and narrow, simple panicles 15 to 30 cm. long. Spike-
lets (fl) narrow, 21 to 42 nnn. long, 5- to 12-llowered ; empty glumes
unequal, acnte; flowering glumes scabrous, acute, about 8 ram.
long, exceeded by the long-acnminato paleas. — Wet soil auc> in
shallow water, Maine to Ohio, and southward to New Jersey and
Tennessee. May, Juno.

273

Fig. 569. PaniculariaborealisXash, Bull. Torr. Bot. Club, 24 :
348. 1897. Northern Manna-grass. — A rather slender, smooth
perennial 4 to 15 dm. high, -with flat leaves and narrow panicles
12 to 40 cm. long. Spikelets («) 10 to 18 mm. long, 7- to 13-flowered
■with thin, unequal empty glumes, and obtuse flowering glumes
which are hispidulous along the nerves and 4 to 5 mm. long. —
Margins of streams and ponds, New England and New York west-
ward to Washington and California. June-September.
1^819— No. 17 18

274

I'lG. 570. Panicularia obtusa (Miilil.) Kiintze {Poaohtuxa Miibl.
Gram. 117. 1817.) Dknsf.i.y i i.owKitr.D MAXXA-dUASs. — A Ktout,
orect, glabrous grass 3 to H dm. liiyb, witli rather broad, Hat
leaves, aud coutrarted, luaiiy-llowered panicles G to 18 ciii. long.
Spikelets 3- to 7-llo\verod, 4 to G iniii. lonj;-, with broad, obtuse
ildweriiig glumes {h) about 3 mm. loug. — Wet, swampy places.
New liruuswick to New York and Pennsylvania, south fo \iri;iuia
and North Carolina. .Tulv-October.

275

Fig. 571. Puccinellia distans (Linn.) Pari. Flor. Ital. 1: 367.
1848. {Poa distant Liiuu.) Si'Ueading Speak-gkass. — A sloncler,
erect, or sometimes decumbent, tufted, glabrous perennial 3 to 6
dm. bigh, with flat leaves and diffusely spreading panicles, 5 to 18
cm. long, branches often becoming finally deflexed. Spikelets 3-
to 6-fli)wered, 3 to 5 mm. long. — Saline soils, Nova Scotia to New
Jersey and Peuuaylvania and on the west coast from California to
Alaska. [Europe, Asia.] June-August.

276

Fig. 57i'. Puccinellia lenimoni (Vasey). Scribii. n. comb.
( I'oa lemmoni Yasey, Coulter Hot. Gaz. 3: 1878.) Lkm.mox's
Speak-guass. — A tufted, i)ale green or glautoiia perennial, with
slender, smooth and somewhat wiry, upright culms 3 to 4.5 dm.
liigh, with numerouH, short basal leaves and sjjreadiug panicles 6
to 10 cm. long. Spikelets very narrow, 3- to 7-llowered, 4 to 6
mm. long. — Alkali Hats, Nevada and Calitornia to Vancouver
Island, Alberta, and Assiniboia. June, .July.

277

Fig. 573. Festucakiugii (S.Wats. )Scribn. U. S. Dept. Agr., Div.
Agros. 5 : 36. 1897. { Fesiuca confinis Yasey ; Poa K'mgh S. Wats.
Bot. King's Exp. 387. 1871.) King's Fescue.— A stout, erect,
strongly ciespitose pereimial 6 to 9 dm. high, with rigid culms,
long, narrow leaves, and contracted panicles 8 to 10 cm. long.
Spikelets (a) 3- to 5-flowered, 6 to 8 mm. long, with ovate-lanceo-
late, acute outer glumes, nnd scabrous, rather rigid floweriug
glumes about 6 mm. long.— Dry mountain sides, Montana to Ore-
iron and south to Colorado and Nevada. May-August.

278

Fig. 574. Festuca obtusa Spreng. Mant. Fl. Hal. ;U. 1807.
( F. .v7iorHiKuuth,Woocl's Class Book of Botany, 794. 1861.) Short's
Fkscue. — A rather stout, erect, glabrous pcreiuiial 6 to 12 dm.
liigh, ■with Hut leaves aiul rather narrow, nodding panicles 8 to
It) cm. long. Spikclets l)roadly obovate, .S- to 6-llowored, 5 to 6
mm. long, with the flowering glumes about I imn. long. — Op«'n
woods anil thiclvcts, Pennsylvania to Illinois, Tennessee, Kansas,
Mississiiipi, and 'i'exas. July, August.

279

Fig. 575. Festuca jonesii Vasej-, Coutiib. Xat. Herb. 1 : 278.
1893. Jones's Fescue.— An erect, iisuallj' sleuder, ctespitose,
leafy perenuial 6 to 12 dia. higli, with flat leaves 10 to 24 cm.
long and open, nodding panicles 15 to 30 cm. long. Spikelets
abont 12 nun. long, including the awns, 3- to 5-flowered, with une-
qual, acute empty glumes (b) and narrow flowering glumes about
5 mm. long. — Moist i)laces near springs and borders of woodlands
in the mountains, Wyoming, Utah, California to Vancouver
Island, and Alaska. June-August.

280

Fig. 576. Pesluca dasyclada Hackl. in Beal, Grasses N. Am.
2 : 602. 1896. 1 1 ackel's FKStTE. — A slender iierennial 2 to 1 dm.
high, the culms often geniculate below, with smooth eheaths, nar-
row leaves, and ovoid-]iyraiui(laI i)anicles7 to T_'rm long. Spike-
lets usually 2-ilowered, about 7 nun. long, with aiuto empty glumes
(6) and scabrous, short-awned flowering glumes (a) about 6 mm.
long. — Southern California and (?) Utah.

281

Fig. 577. Festuca ovina Linn. Sp. PI. 73. 1753. Sheep's
Fescue.— A slender, densely tufted, erect perennial 2 to 6 dm.
hieli, with narrow or filiform, inv(»ltite leaves and contracted
(expanding while in bloom) panicles 3 to 6 cm. long. Spikelets 3-
to 5-flowered, with unequal empty glumes (a), and usually short-
awned, smooth llowcriug glumes 3 to 4 mm. long. - New England
to Pennsylvania, and westward to the Pacific; especially abun-
dant in many varieties in the Rocky Mountain region. June-
September.

282

Fig. 578. Festuca microstachys Nutt. Jouni. Acad. (n. ser. )
1:187. 1848; Vasey 111. N. Am. Grasses, 2:91.) Smali.-toi'Peu
Fkscuk.— A slender, c:i-spitosc annual 1 to i dm. hif^h, with nar-
row, filiform leaves and simple, racemose or spike-like panicles
2 to 10 cm. long. Spikelets 1- to 5-flowered with nearly equal
empty glumes and awned flowering glumes 4 to 0 mm. long;
awu 6 to 10 mm. long.— Utah, Nevada, and Idaho to Vancouver
Island, southward to Arizona and southern California. April-
.June.

283

Fig. 579. Festuca sciurea Nutt. Tiaus. Amer. Phil. Soc. 5 •
147. 1837. — A slender, erect, ciespitoso aniuuil 1.5 to 5 dm. high,
with short, filiform leaves and narrow, simple panicles 5 to 20 cm.
long. Spikelets 4 to 6 mm. long, 3- to 7-tlowered, with unequal
empty glumes (a), the second 3-nerved, and very narrow flowering
glumes which are pilose, especially above, and terminate in slender
awns 8 to 12 mm. long. — Arkansas, Indian Territory, Mississippi,
and Texas.

Distinguished from 7''. octojlora by its pilose flowering glumes
and longer awns.

284

Fig. .ISO. Festuca octoflora Walt. Flor. Carol. 81. 1788. {Fex-
titca /eH«Z/a Willil. Enuiii. 1:113. 1809.) Slkndkk Fescie.— A
slfiider, (^rect, more or less ciespitose annual 1 to 5 dm. liigli, with
narrow, simple panick-s 2 to 15 cm. long. Spikelets 5- to 13-tlow-
ered, 6 to 10 mm. long, with slightly nncMjual, acnto empty glumes
{a) and narrow, usually scabrous, short-awned or nearly awnless
llowcring glumes 3 to 5 mm. long.— Dry, sandy, gravelly, or rocky
soil from Canada to Florida, and westward to Washington iind
California. May-August.

285

Fig. 581. Festiica myuros Liiin. Sp. PI. 71. 1753. Rat's-tail
Fescue.— A suiootli, slender, erect annual 3 to 6 dm. high, with
narrow, involute leaves and contracted, usually one-sided pani-
cles 8 to 24 cm. long. Spikelets 3- to 6-flowered, with very unequal,
acute empty glumes (a), and narrow, scabrous, slender-awued
flowering glumes 4 to G mm. long. Awns much longer than the
glumes.— Fields and waste places, Massachusetts to Florida, and
westward to California and Washington. [Europe.] April-July.

286

Fio. 5^!2. Bromus hookerianiiG Tlmil). in ]>ot. AVilkes Expl.
Exped. 2 : 4it:!. LsTl. [Ccriilochha grandiHura Hook. Flor. l?or.
Am. 2 : 253. 1840.) Great Westekn Bko.mk.— A stout, erectper-
cmiial 3 to 12 dm. liigli, with pube.sceut or liirsute sheaths aud
leaves and nearly simple, lax panicles 20 to 35 em. long'. Spike-
l(^ts 35 to 50 mm. long, 0- to IS-flowercd, strongly compressed,
seabrid-pubescent, Avith shaiply aiiiniinate-pointed empty glumes
and il-nerved. short-awncd llowering glumes; these more remote,
less compressed, and niucli longer awuud than in li. breriarixtntits. —
California to Washington, aud eastward to Montana. ,

287

Fig. 583. Bromus ciliatus Liuu. Sp. PL 77. 17.j3. Swamp
CiiKSS. — A stout, erect, leafy perennial, 6 to 12 dm. high, Avith flat
leaves and open, nodding panicles 10 to 25 cm. long. Siiikelets 5- to
8-flowered, 10 to 20 mm. long, with acute outer glumes, the first
1-uervcd, the second 3-nerved, and short-awned flowering glumes,
which are ciliate-pubescent near the margins and 8 to 10 mm.
long. — Open woodlands and borders of thicket, Canada, British
Columbia, and southward to Florida and Texas. June-September.

A widely distributed native grass of little agricultural \ alue.

288

Fig. 584. Bromus kalmii A. Gray, Man. 600. 1848. Kalm's
Brome-GKASs.— A rather sleuder, erect perennial. 4..") to 9 dm. high,
with usually pubescent sheaths and leaves, and nodding, lew-
llowered panicles 5 to 1.5 cm. long. Spikelets 6- to 10-llowered,
12 to 24 mm. long, on slender, tle.xnous pedicels; thf first gluuio
3-nerved, the second 5- to 7-nerved; the Uoweriug glume about 8
mm. long, densely silky-pubescent, and short-awned.— Dry soil,
Canada to Pennsylvania, and westward to Utah, Idaho and British
Columbia. .June-August.

289

Fig. 585. Bromus hordeaceus Linu. Sp. PI. 77. 1753. {B. mollis
Linn. Sp. PI. Ed. 2. 112. 1762.) Soft Chess.— An erect, usually
slender, pubescent annual, 2 to 6 dm. high, with flat leaves and
contracted panicles 2 to 6 cm. long. Spikelets 3-to 8-flowered,
1.5 to 2 cm. long, with pubescent glumes, the flowering ones 7 to
9 mm. long, obtuse and awued. Awns 6 to 8 mm. long. — In fields
and waste places throughout. [Adveutive from Europe.] May-

August.

19810— No. 1]

-19

290

Fig. 586. Bromus tectorum Liun. 8p. PI. 77. 1753. Downy
Brome-gkass.— A slender, erect, leafy annual, 1.5 to 6 diu. L'njli,
-with narrow, softly pubescent leaves and open, nodding pauiclea
6 to 15 cm. long. Spikelets 5- to 8-dowered, witli unequal, acumi-
nate-pointed, hirsute empty glumes, and rough or hirsute flowering
glumes S to 12 mm. long. Awns 12 to 16 mm. long.— Waste places,
New Ihigland to Virginia and Ohio; also California to Washing-
ton. A weed, introduced from Europe.

2;)i

Fig. 587. Lolium temulentum Linn. Sp. PL 83. 1753. Dar-
nel.— A glabrous, erect, and usually rather stout annual, 6 to 12
dm. higli, witli flat leaves and erect spikes 10 to 30 cm. long.
Spikelets 4- to 8-flo\vered, 10 to 18 mm. long, the empty glume (a)
as long as or exceeding the spikelet. — Waste places and cultivated
grounds. A -weed, introduced from Europe. May-August.

292

Fiu. 588. Lepturus filiformis (Kofli) Trin. Fimd. Agros. 123.
181'0. {notiboellia fiUj'ormis Jioih,CaiUi\., 1:21. 1797.) Slender
IIakd-GKASS.— A slender aud rather rigid, nmeh-bruncbed animal,
1 to 3 dm. high, with narrow, flat leaves, and slender, erect, or
cnrve<l spikes 2 to 12 cm. long. Spikelets 1 to 5 mm. long, with
acute empty glumes and 1-nerved fl() wering glumes H.5 mm. long. —
Waste places, southern Pennsylvania to Virginia. Introduced
from Eurojje. May-July.

2!I3

Fig. 589. Lepturus incurvatus (Linu.) Trin. Fuucl. Agros. 123.
1820. {Aegilops incurvata Linn. Sp. PI. i: 1051. 1753; Rotthccllia
incurvata Ijinn. Suppl. 114.) CURLY Hard-grass. — A low, much
branched annual 1 to 2 dm. high, with narrow leaves and usually
strongly incurved sjjikes 2 to 8 cm. long. Spikelets about 6 mm.
long, the acute empty glumes much exceeding the hjaline floral
glume. — Borders of brackish marshes, Maryland to southern Vir-
ginia, New Jersey (on ships' ballast) and California. Introduced
from Europe.

294

Fig. 590. Agropyron parishii Scribn. & Smith, U. S. Dept. Ayr.,
Div. Agros. Bull. 4 : 28. 1897. Parish's Wheat-grass.— A rather
stout, erect, ca>spitose perennial 6 to 10 dm. high, with Hat leaves
and erect or nodding spikes, 15 to 30 cm. long. Spikclets remote,
5- to 7-flo\vered, 16 to 20 mm. long. PZmpty glumes («) two-thirds
as long as the spikelets. Flowering glumes lanceolate, 9 to 11
mm. long, short-Mwiuul. — San Bernardino Mountains, California.
May, June.

295

Fig. 591. Agropyron violaceum (Hornin.) Vasey. (Triticum
violacetimUornm.Fl.'Da.n. t.2044. 1832.) 1883. Northern Wheat-
grass. — Au erect, c;espitose perennial, Avith rather short, flat
leaves and comparatively stout spikes 2 to 6 cm. long. Spikelets
3- to 4-flowered, with short-awued or awnless glumes, which are
broadest above the middle.— Labrador and southward in the moun-
tains of New England, New York, and Pennsylvania, westward to
Colorado and Utah, and northward to Alaska. June-September.

296

Fig. 592. Agropyron pseiidorepens .Scribn. & Snii th, IJ. S. Dept.
Agr., Div. Agios. I5nll. 4:34. 1897. False Coi'CU-(iRASS.— An
ereot, rather stout perennial 3 to 9 dm. high, from creeping root-
stock.s, with tlat, scabrous leaves, and erect spikes 8 to 16 cm.
long. Spikelcts 10 to 16 nun. long, 3- to T-llowered, with linear-
lanceolate, nearly equal and 5-nerved empty glumes, and acumi-
nate or awn-pointed tlowering glumes.— Rather moist soil, Texas
and Arizona to Nebraska, Montana, aud British America. May-
September.

297

Fig. 593. Agropyron tenerum Vasey, Coult. Bot. Gaz. 10:
258. 1885. t^LENUER Wheat-(;rass. — Au erect, ciespitose, rather
stout, smooth perennial 6 to 9 dm. high, with narrow, flat leaves
and slender, cylindrical spikes 8 to 15 cm. long. Outer glumes
(a) 5-nerved; flowering glumes lanceolate 8 to 10 mm. long,
tipped with a stift', straight awn 1 to 4 mm. long. — Dry soil, New
Mexico and southern California to Washington and British Co-
lumbia, and eastward to New Hampshire and Labrador. July,
August.

298

Fig. Sill. Agropyron spicatum (Pursh) Scribn. A: Smith, Bull.
U. 8. Dopt. Agi-., Div. Agros. 3 : 12. IXdd. Colokado Uluk-stem.
Wejsteun Wheat-grass. — A rigid, upright, glaucous perennial 3
to 12 (lui. high, from creeping rootstocks, with rather lirm, bhiisli-
green leaves, and straight, beardless spikes 6 to 14 oni. long.
Spikelets 7- to 13-Howered, 12 to 20 mm. long, with lanceolate,
acuminatcvpoiuted, empty glumes («), and acute flowering glumes
8 to 12 mm. long. — Dry or moist soil, Wisconsin to Iowa, and
westward to Washington, Texas, and Arizona. June-September.

299

Fig. 595. Agropyron riparium Scribn. & Smith, U. S. Dept.
Agr.,Div. Agros., Bull.4 ; 35. 1897. Eiver-side Wheat-gkass.—
A rather sleuder, tufted, glaucous perennial, 4.5 to 6 dm. high,
with narrowly involute leaves, pubescent sheaths, and densely
tlowered spikes 5 to 8 cm. long. Spikelets 5- to 7-llowered, 10 to
12 mm. long, awnless. Empty glumes (a) less than oue-half as
long as the spikelet. — Elver banks, Montana. Julj^, August.

300

Fig. 596. Agiopyron laaceolatum Scribn. & Smith, U. 8. Dept.
Agr., Div. Agios. Bull., 4 : 34. lS!t7. {Ti-itinim Jitnreum Hook.
Not Liuii.) — A rather stout, yellowish-green or glaucous perennial
6 to 9 dm. high, with long, flat leaves, with erect or flexuous spikes
of large, subconipressert, acute, 4- to 7-tlowerecl spikelets 10 to 20
mm. long. Enii)ty glumes (<i) abruptly acuminate, 6 to 9 mm. long;
flowering glumes (shown in Ji) Itroadly lanceolate, rounded on
the back and more or less pubescent. — Idaho to Oregon and
Washington. May-July.

301

Fig. 597. Agropyrou richardsoni Schrad. Linnit-a 12 : 467.
1838, (fide Kew Index); (Triticum richardsoni Triii. in Reliq. in
Schrad., Linn. 12 : 467. 1838.) -Richardson's Wheat-grass. — An
erect, smooth perennial, 6 to 8 dm. high, with rather rough, iuvo-
hite-pointed leaves and erect, usually one-sided, bearded spikes,
7 to 10 cm. long. Spikelets 3- to 4-flo\vered, with long-awned
flowering glumes 8 to 9 mm. long.— Dry soil, Nebraska and Min-
nesota to the Saskatchewan, and south to Colon'ido. June-Sep-
tember.

302

Fig. 598. Agropyron vaseyi Scribii. & Smith, U. S. Dept.
Agr., 13iv. Agrow. ]5ull.4: 27. 1897. Va.skv's Buncii-chas.s.— A
slender, wiry, erect, densely ca-spitoso ])erennial 3 to 4.5 dm. liijjh,
witli short, involute, setaceous leaves, and few-tlowered, iuter-
inpted spikes 4 to 8 cm. long. Spikelets rather remote, 3- to
5-llowered, S to 10 mm. long. Empty glumes awuless ; flowering
glumes with a div<'rgent awn 8 to 10 mm. long. — Dry, gravelly
soil, Montana and Nevada to Oregon and Washington. May-
August.

303

Fiu. 599. Agropyrou diveigens Nees in Steud. ISyu. PI. (jram.
347. 1855. {TrUicum dinrgeiis Steud.) Wire Bunch-grass. — A
rigid and often wiry, densely tufted perenuial 3 to 9 dm. high,
with narrow, i\ni, or involute leaves, and terminal, usually erect
spikes « to 20 cm. long. Spikelets rather distant, 3- to 6-tiowered,
with rigid and usually acute empty glumes (a) about one-half as
long as the spikelet. Flowering glumes 8 to 10 mm. long with
widely divergent arms. — Dry, rocky soil and bench lauds, Wash-
ington and Oregon to Montana, Colorado and Nevada. June-
August.

304

Fig. 600. Agropyron arizonicum Scribu. &. Suiitli, U. S. Dept.
A^r., Div. Agros. Bull. 4 : 27. 1897. Arizona Wheat-grass.— A
glaucous, erect perennial 4.5 to 6 dm, liigli, with soft, flat leaves
l'> to 18 cm. long, nodding 8i)ikelets 12 to 22 cm. long, and rather
remote, 5- to 7-flowered spikelets, 18 to 24 mm. long. Emi)t,v
glumes (a) about one-half as long as the sjtikelets; flowering
glumes loug-awued; awn divergent, about 24 mm. long. — Moun-
tains, New Mexico and Arizona. [Mexico.] August, September.

305

Fig. 601. Agropyron gmelini Scribn. & Smith, U. S. Dept.
Agr., Div, Agros. 8 Bull. 4 : 30. 1897. Short-leafed Wheat-
grass. — A rather slender, erect, glabrous, caespitose perennial,
6 to 12 dru. high, ^vith flat leaves, the lower ones short, and slender
spikes 8 to 20 cm. long. Spikelets 7- to O-flowered, 12 to 18 mm.
long; empty glumes (a) unequal, two-thirds as long as the spike-
let. Flowering glumes 10 to 12 mm. long, shorter than its slender
awn. — Moist soil, mountains, Washington to western Nebraska.
May-August.

19819—^0. 17 20

306

Fig. 602. Secale montanum Gnss. Flor. 8ic. Prod. 145. 1827.
MouNT.MN liVK. — A libroiis-rooted, erect, glal)rr)n8 perennial,!^) to
12 <liii. liigli, witli Hat leaves and nodding, soniewbat coiuiiresscd
8i)ike8 6 to 10 < m. long. Spikelets about 15 mm. long, witb \ cry
naiTow,awnless,orsliort-awnedemi>ty glumes and ei]iate,.5-nerved,
awned dowering glumes; awns 2H to 'M) mm. long. — Sparingly in-
troduced into enltivation. July.

Probably a good bay grass.

307

Fig. 603. Hordeum jubatumLinu. Sp. PI. 85. 1753. Squirrel-
tail Grass. — A smooth, slender, and erect pereuBial (f),2 to 6
dm. liigh, with flat leaves, and long-bearded, nodding spikes 5 to
10 cm. long. Empty glumes awn-like, 3 to 5 cm. long, the flower-
ing glnme of the central spikelet 6 to 8 mm. long, terminating in
a slender awn 3 to 5 cm. long. — Moist saline soils, Canada, tlie
United States south to Kansas, Colorado, and California Alaska.
May-August.

308

U' hi 1,1

Fig. 601. Hordeum maritimum With. Hot. Air. 172. 1776.
Scribn. & Smith, U. S. Dept. Agr., Div, Agros. Hull. 4 : p. 24. 7189.
Seasidk Barley. — A smooth, upright, or spreading, c;r8pito.se
annual, 1 to 3 dm. high, witli short leaves and terminal, bearded
spikes 2 to 4 cm. long. Spikelets, including the rigid, spreading
awns, 10 to 12 mm. long, the outer glumes not eiliate.— Sandy
soil along the coast, Hritish Columbia to southern California.
[Naturalized from Europe.] May-.July.

309

Fig. 605. Hordeum murinum Linu. Sp. PI. 85. 1753. Wall
Barley. — A rather stout, c;espitose annual, 3 to 6 dm. high, with
short, tiat leaves, inflated sheaths, and compressed spikes 5 to 10
cm. long. Spikelets, including the awns, 4 cm. long, the glumes
of the middle spikelet lanceolate and conspicuously ciliate ou the
margins. — On ballast New York, New Jersey, and Delaware, and
alona: the Pacific coast from British Columbia to southern Call-
fornia. [Europe.] April-July.

310

Fig. 60G. Hordeum gussonianum Pari. ri.Palerm. in obs. 244.
184.5. — A slciultT, cM'Spitosc, erect or ascending annnal, 1 to 3 dm.
liigli, witli short leaves and spikes. Empty glumes siibulatc,
long-awned, the inner pair distinctly llattened. Kesembling B.
maritimiim in habit. — California ami Oregon. [Europe.] May,
.June.

311

Fig. 607. Hordeum adscendens HBK. Nov. Gen. 1 : 180. 1815.
Scribu. & Smith, U. S. Dept. Agr., Div. Agros. Bull. 4 : 24. 1897.—
A rather slender, erect, leafy annual (?) 6 to 9 dm. high, with
pubescent lower sheaths, flat and rather rigid leaves, and bearded,
terminal spikes G to 8 cm. long. Empty glumes setaceous, rounded
on the back, grooved on the inner face below; those of the cen-
tral spikelet about 2 cm. long. Flowering glume of the central
spikelet 9 to 10 mm. long, w ith an awn 20 to 24 mm. long. Lateral
spikelets neutral. — ^long irrigating ditches, Arizona. [Mexico. 1
April-.lnne.

312

a — -0

Fig. 608. Hordeum montanense Scribn. in Boal Grasses N.
Am. 2 : 6t4. 18'.)6. Montana Uahley. — An ort'Ct, leafy biennial
or perennial G to 9 dm. high, with Hiiiootli culms, scabrous leaves
and bearded spikes 4 to 6 cm. long. Empty glumes linear-
lanceolate. 12 to 20 mm. Ion*:;, inelmling the slender, scabrous
awns. The central spikclet of each group usually 2-flo\vered.
First flowering glume about 10 mm. long, awned. Awn 16 to 18
mm. long. Lateral spikelets 2-flowered, florets nearly sessile. —
Moist thickets, Montana.

313

Fig. 609. Hordeum nodosum Linu. Sp. PI. Ed. 2, 56. 1762.
Wild or Meadow Baulky. — A slender, erect, caespitose grass 2 to
6 dm. high, with flat leaves, and narrow, bearded spikes 2 to 8 em.
long. Empty glumes all setaceous or awn-like; lateral spikelets
imperfect. Awns 6 to 12 mm. long. — Thin, dry soils, Indiana and
Minnesota to Alaska, and south to Tennessee, Mississippi, Texas,
and California. May-August.

314

Fig. 610. Hoideum pu-sillum Nutt. tien. 1 : 87. 1818. Little
Bakley. — A slender, rather rigid, erect, glabrous perennial, 1 to
3.5 dm. high, with comparatively short, flat leaves, and terminal
spikes 2 to 7 cm. long. Outer glumes of the central si)ikelet8 and
lower ones of the lateral spikelcts much broadened above the
base. — Arid, saline, or alkaline soils from Ontario to British Co-
lumbia and south U^South Carolina, Louisiana, and Texas.
.\]»ril-Angnst.

315

Fig. 611. Elymus striatusWilld. Sp. PI. 1: 470. 1797. Slender
Lyme-GRASS. — A rather slender, erect, leafy perennial with flat
leaves and slender, bearded, somewhat nodding- spikes 7 to 10 cm.
long. Spikelets 1- to 3-tiowered, with awl-shaped, hispid ur hirsute
empty glumes and scabrous, slender-awned flowering glumesabout
6 mm. long. Am'us 16 to 30 mm. long. — Woods and river banks,
Maine to South Dakota and south to New .^rsey, Tennessee, Ar-
kansas, and Texas. June-August.

316

Fig. 612. ElymusvirginicusLiiin. Sj). P1.84. 175;^. Teukkll-
GRASS.— A rather stout, leafy, erccT, glabrous perennial 6 to 10
dm. high, with terminal, erect spikes 4 to 14 cm. long, the bases of
which are usually inclosed in the inlhited uppermost sheath.
Spikelets with thick and rigid, lanceolate empty glumes l(j to 24
mm. long (including the short awn).— Moist soil, borders of thick-
ets and open woodlands. Nova Scotia and New Brunswick to
Florida, and westward to Manitoba and Texas. June-September.

317

Fig. 613. Elymus robustus Scribu. &. Bmitb. U. S. Dept. Agr.,
Div. Agios. Bull. 4 : 37. 1897. Gkeat Lyme-grass.— A stout,
leafy peieuuial 9 to 18 dm. high, with thick, terminal, long-bearded
spikes 10 to 14 cm. long. Spikelets 3- to 4-tiowered, with linear-
subulate empty glumes and scabrous or pubescent flowering
glumes. Awns spreading 3 to 4 cm. long. — Rich moist soil, Illinois,
and Montana to Kansas and New Mexico. June-September.

318

Fig. 614. Elymus macounii Vasey, Bull. Torr. Bot. C'liib, 13 :
119. 1886. Macoin's Lymk-grass.— A slender, upriylit, suiootb,
cu'spitose perennial 3 to 8 dm. high, with narrow, erect leaves and
slender, nearly cylindrical spikes 6 to 10 cm. long. Spikelets 1- to
3-flowercd, with mirrowlyliinceolato empty glMnies(«)8 to 10 mm.
long.— Rather moist soil, South Dakota lo Colorado and Montana.
[British Columbia.] .Tune-August.

319

Fig. 615. Elymus salinus Jones, x'roc. Cal. Acad., ser. 2, 5 :
725. 1895. Alkali Lyme-grass. — A rigid, wiry, erect, densely
ciespitose perennial 3 to 6 dm. high, with rather rigid, involute,
spreading leaves and narrow, erect spikes 5 to 10 cm. long. Spike-
lets nsnally single at each joint, about 12 mm. long and 5- to
9-flowered. Empty glumes (o) nearly subulate, unecjual; flower-
ing glumes short-awned, about 8 mm. long. — Alkali soil, Utah and
Wyoming. June-August.

320

Fig. 616. Elymus simplex Scribn. ami Williams. U. S. Dept.
Agr.,Div. Agros. ]5ull. 11:57, pi. 17. 1898. Salt Lyime-grass.—
A wiry, erect ])(;rennial, 3 to 1 dm. high, from strong, creeping
rootstocks, with Hat (finally involute) pungeutly-pointeil, rigid
leaves and densely-flowered, erect spikes 5 to 8 cm. long. Spike -
lets solitary or in pairs, 5- to 7-flowered, about 15 mm. long, with
very rigid and subulate-pointed empty glumes and smooth liow-
ering glumes, which are about 7 mm. long, with rigid awns 5 to 6
mm. long.— Borders of ponds, Wyoming. July, August.

321

liG. 617. Elymus condensatus Presl, Reli((. Haeuk. 1:265.
1830. Giant Rye grass. — A stout, erect pereunial 10 to 24' dm.
high, often growing in great clumps or bunclies, with long, rather
rigid, flat leaves and dense spikes 10 to 30 cm. long. Spikelets 3 to 6
flowered, with subulate empty glumes (a) and smooth, mucronate-
l)ointed flowering glumes 8 to 10 mm. long. — Usually moist and
alkaliue soils, Nebraska aud the Dakotas to Washington and Ore-
gon, south to Arizona and California. June-September.
10819— No. 17 21

322

Fk;. 618. Elymus flavescens Scribn. & Smith, U. S. Dept.
Agr., Div. AjAios. P.ull. 8 : .s, lig. 1. 18!t7. Vei,lo\v-iiaii{i:i) T.ymk-
(iKASS. — A stout, erect perennial 6 to 10 dm. bigli, Irom long,
creeping rootstocks, with long, somewhat rigid leaves and rather
loosely-flowered yellowish spikes 10 to 20 cm. long. Spikelets 'A- to
fi-flowered, 10 to 20 mm. long, densely villous, with long wliitisli or
yellowish liairs. Glumes awnless, the outer ones very unecjual :iuil
glahrous. — Dry sandy soil, Idaho to Oregon .lud Washington.
May, .June.

32

Fig. 619. Elymus imiovatus Beal, Grasses of North America,
2 : 650. 1896. ( KJiimun brownei Scribu, & Smith, U. S. Dept. Agr.,
Div. Agros. Bull. 8 : 7, PI. IV.) Brown's Wild Eye.— A rigid,
rather slender, erect perennial .5 to 9 dm. high, with short cauline
leaves, and densely flowered, pubescent spikes 4 to 10 cm. long.
Spikelets 3- to 6-flowcred, 10 to 15 mm. long, with densely pubes-
cent flowering glumes 8 to 10 mm. long.— Gravelly or sandy
banks, Sonth Dakota, Wyoming, British Columbia, and northward
to Alaska. June-September.

324

Fic. 620. Elymus hirsutiglumis Si rihii. V. 8. Dept. Agr., Div.
Agros. Hull. 11: 5X. 11SLI8. {E. intermedins S)i'ri\)i\. \ Smith, U. 8.
Dept. Agr., Div. Agros , Bull. 4:38. 1897. Not E. inienneditis
Bieb., Flor., 1:82.) Hairy-flowkkkd Lyme-(;rass. — A rather
stiiiit, erect, loiifj' perennial (5 to 9 <lni. high, with smooth culms and
sheaths, and erect, slender spikes 15 to 8 cm. long. Empty and
flowering glumes awn-pointed ; awns 8 to It? mm. long. — Maine to
Virginia and westward to Illinois and Nebraska. July, August.

325

Fig. 621. Elymus dasystachys littoralis (Pall.) Griseb. Ledb.
Flor. Ross. 4 : 333. 1853. Scribn. U. S. Dept. Agr., Div. Agros. Bull.
8:8. {Triticum littorale PaAl. It. 3:287.) 1776. — A stout, erect
perenuial 8 to 10 dm. high, from strong, creeping rootstocks, with
long, sharp-pointed leaves, aud loosely flowered, often branched
spikes 20 to .30 cm. long. Spikelets 5- to 9-flowered, with rigid,
narrowly lanceolate empty glumes (a), and acute flowering glumes
which are 12 to 14 mm. long and pubescent on the back, excepting
near the apex. — Washington aud Idaho. August.

326

Fig. 622. Elymus villosissimus Scribn. 8p. nov. Northern
Lymk-gka.ss. — A stout, erect pcrenuial :3 to 4 dm. high from a
Ktroug, creeping rootstock, with rather broa<l, comparatively short.
Hat leaves, and short, densely flowered panicles 5 to 7 or 8 cm.
long. Spikelets (a) 3-to 5-flo\vered, about 1.5 cm. long, with
densely villous or lanate glumes, the outer ones narrowly lanceo-
late aiul SMbnlat(!-p()inte(l, nearly ecjuaiing the spikelet. Ligule
nearly obsolete.— Uplands, .^t. ratil Isliind, Bering Sea; also
\Vran;;ell Island, Arctic America.

Type specimen from St. Paul Island, .James M. Macouu (1622G).
.Inly, August.

327

h ^^

Fig. 623. Elymus saundersii Vasey, Bull. Toir. Bot. Club, 2:
126. 1884. Saundehs Lyme-grass. — A slender, tufted, erect
perennial 6 to 10 dm. high, with narrow, rather rigid leaves and
long-bearded spikes, 10 to 14 cm. long. Spikelets 2-to 4-flowered ;
awns of the glumes slender, 40 to 50 mm. long; lower flowering
glume about 10 mm. long, 2-toothed at the apex. — Veta Puss,
Colorado.

Axis of the spike readily breaking up, as in Sitanion.

328

Fig. 624. Sitanion hanseni (8cribii.) ,T. 0. S. n. ^-omh. {El yiniis
hanseni Sciibu., V. S. Dept. Agr., Div. A<,mos. Bull. 11: 50, fig. 12
1W>«). IIan.si:n"s Sitanion.— A rather istoiit, glabrous pereuuial
9 to 12 dm. liigb, with iiarrow, Hjireadiug leaves and slender,
fragile Hiiikes5 to 8 cui. long, heaves 10 to 30 cm. long. Spike-
lets 3- to .5-llo\vered, about 1.5 iijm. long, exclusive of the awns,
which are 2 to 5 cm. long. Empty glumes tipped with 2 or some-
times 3 unequal awns, the longer ones often 3.5 cm. long. — Dry,
ojieu grounds. Amador County, California.

329

Fig. 625. Sitanion glaber J. G. Smith, sp. nov. Orchard
Barley.— A ratbei- stout, erect, densely ctespitose perennial, 3
to 5 dm. higli, with the sheaths and under side of the leaves
glabrous, the long-bearded spikes 5 to 8 cm. long. Awns of the
floral glumes 40 to 50 mm. long.— California to Washington.

Type No. 914, Coville and Funstou, from Coso Mountains, Cali-
fornia.

330

Fig. 626. Asperella californica (Bol.) Real, Grasses N. Am. 2 :
657. 18!)6. { Gijnut Ob- licit urn calif or nicum, lioland. Cat. 35. 1870.)
California Bottle-brush.— A stout, erect perennial, 10 to 20
dm. high, with hirsute lower sheaths, broad, ll;it leaves, and ter-
minal, bearded spikes 15 to 25 ciii. long. Spikclets 1- to 3-flow-
ered, witii nearly obsolete empty glumes and strongly hispid
flowering glumes terminated in a stout, rough awn nearly as
long as the glume itself. — California.

331

Fig. 627. Arundinaria macrosperma Michx. Flor. Kor. Am.
1 : 74. 1803. Cane. — A stout, woody, almost arborescent grass
45 to 90 dm. high, with lanceolate leaves and lateral panicles com-
posed of a few simple racemes. Spikelets 25 to 45 cm. long, 5- to
9-tlowered,witli short empty glumes and lanceolate, short-awned,
flowering glumes about 16 mm. long. — North Carolina to Florida
and westward to Texas.

INDEX-ENGLISH NAMES.

[The nnraber.i refer to the number
Bulletiu 7]

Acute-flowered Manna-grass 568

Alkali-grass 207

Lyuie-grass 615

Saccatone 56

Alpine Foxtail 452

Holy grass 410

Timothy 451

American Oat 165

Panic-grass 60

A])are.io Grass 467

Arizona Cotton grass 342

W lieat-grass COO

Baiiiier Sorghum 10

Baruyard-gniss 61

Beiicli-grass 149

Beard-grass 132, 472

Bearded Hair-grass 448

.joint 53

Me'.ic-grass 523

Short-Husk 112

Beardless Broom-Sedge 309

False Oat 490

Bermuda-grass 171

Big Blue-stem 14

Bigelow's Blue-grass 534

Bitter Panic-grass 55

Black Bunch-grass 20

Grama 19

Mountain Rice 92

Oat-grass 423

Bloomer's Stipa 433

Blue Grama 204

Bog Reed-grass 487

Bolander'a Spear-grass 545

Bottle Brush 302

Branching Foxtail 67

Spear-grass 513

f tlio illustration. Numbers 1-302 are iu

Brazilian Blady-grass 303

Brewer's Reed-grass 486

Bristly Foxtail 403

Mesquit 205

Britton's Panic-grass 368

Brizalike Brome-grass 292

Broad-leafed Arctic Bent 474

Spike grass 261

Brook-grass 9, 317

Broom Reed-grass 489

Sedge 10

Brown's Wild Rye 619

Buckley's Rush-grass 459

Bufl'alo-grass 220

Bunch Hair-grass 443

Red-top 278

Burks Grama 207

Canada Blue-grass 544

Candy-grass 5il

Cane 627

California Bottle Brush 620

Melic grass 522

Pleuropogun 529

Timothy 81

Triple awn 413

Califoruian Hair-grass 154

Reed-grass 47&

Carpet-grass _ 344

Catch-fly-grass 74

Cheat 291

Chess 291

Chico Grass 503

Clustered Salt-grass 212

Cock Spur 407

Colorado Blue-stem 594

Sand-grass 319

ComiDon Reed 229

333

334

Cottagrass 223

Cotton-grass 42

Coiuh Bentgrasa 4;!3

-grass 2U8

Crab-grass 240, 339

Creek Sedge 177

Creeping Bearil-grass 400

Panic 52

Reiniaria 22

Crested Feather-grass 434

Crowfoot grass 210

Curly Hard-grass 089

Mesijiiite 18

Curtiss' Paspalum 329

Cusick's Blue-grass 505

Darnel 587

Deer- grass 1^0

Deusely-tiowered Bent 137

Manna-grass . . . 570

Plume-grass 3

DitchMillet 331

Dog-town Grass 419

Dog'stail-grass 2 J5

Douglass' Sand-grass 502

Dowuy Bronie-grass 58G

Oal-gi ass 160

Early Buiieh grass 252

Wild Oat-grass 153

I'.aton's Grass 251

Elliott's Broom Sedge 12

Paspalum 23

Everylastiiig-grass. 35, 338

Fall Wilcli-grass 347

False Butt'alo-grass 227

Coucli-gi ass 502

Feather Bunch-grass 430

-Grass 219,424

Fendler's Blue-grass 543

Few-llowered Sorglnim 17

" Fiue-leafed Blue-grass 556

-t,0)> Salt-grass 127

Fisebers l)u])ontia 566

Flat-leafed Pauie-grass 340

-stcinmed Panic 53

Sporobolos 125

Floating Foxtail 115

Manna grass 285

Water-grass 325

Florida Aniiihicarjion 33

Curly Beard 422

Paspalum ■ 30

Fool Hay 350

Fox-grass 1 74

Fowl Meadow-grass 281

Freshwater Cord grass 173

Galleta 21

Gania-grass 1

Giant Millet 402

Rye-grass f;i7

"Water-grass 333

Gibbous Panic-grass 47

Golden-top •270

( loose grass 209

(jreat Lynie-grass 013

Western Brome 582

Green Foxtail 65

Hackel's Fescue 576

Hairy-Howered Lyme-grass (^20

Grama 202

Hansen's Sitanion (.24

Hare's grass 413

Harford's Melic-grass 525

Hasse's Feather-grass 427

Havard's Giama 198

Poverty grass 420

Heather-grass 508

Herd's Grass or Red-top 483

Hungarian Bromegrass 290

grass 08

Indian grass 15

Millet 97

Reed 134

AVheat 344

Inflated Melic-grass 524

Italian Millet 6S

Rye-grass 290

Jamaica Crab-grass 43

Johnson grass 321

Jones's Fescue 575

Rush-grass 400

Jungle Rice 63

Kalm's Brome-grass 584

Kellogg's Spear-grass 274

Kentucky Blue-grass 273

King's Desert-grass 504

Fescue 573

Knot-grass 25

Lace -grass 514

Langsdorf's Reed Bent 494

Barge tlowered Blue-grass 561

Melica 260

-fruited Board-grass 323

335

Large-leafed Vanilla-grass 84

Sand-bur 406

Water grass 31

Late Diop-seed 454

Lenini(m"8 Canary-grass 412

Drop-seed 447

Spear-graaa 572

Wool-grass 36

Letterrnan's Blue-grass 547

Little Barley 610

Blueatem 13

Crab-grass 38

Mountain Kice 95

Lizard-tail-grass 6

Long-awned Poverty-grass 88

bearded Broom -sedge 315

leafed Spike-grass 530

Sporobolus 120

spiked Bur-grass 70

stalked Panic 62

Loosely-flowered Paspalum 334

Louisiana Carpet-grass 24

Low I'auic-grass 341

Spear-grass 533

Macoun's Lyme-grass 614

Ke.'dBent 492

Stipa 431

Many-tiowered Broom-sedge 313

Trichloris 190

spiked Cbloris . . 187

Marram-grass 149

Marsh Bent 482

Oat-grass 159

Panic-grass 354

Mat-grass 5

Meadow Barley 609

Fescue 288

Foxtail 116

Mexican Drop-seed 100

Salt-grass 515

Mission-grass 72

Molir's Broom-sedge 314

Montana Barley 608

Morton's Oat-grass 166

Moss grass 453

Mountain I5ent 479

Drojt-seed 468

Foxtail 117

Hair-grass 158

Rye 602

Spear-grass 272

Muuro-grass 352

Mutton grass 543

Naked Beard-grass 191

Narrow-topped Feather-grass 426

Panic grass 355

Nash's Panic-grass 61

Nealley 's Leptochloa 216

Rush-grass 462

Needle grass 425

Nevada Blue-grass 551

New Mexican Feather-grass 428

Nimble Will 99

Nit-grass 141

Nodding Blue-grass 538

Colpodium 563

Oatgrass 164

Pleuroi)ogon 263

Northern Lyme-grass 622

Manna-grasa 569

Panic-grass 58

Spear-grass 546

Wheat-grass 591

Wild Barley 300

Nuttall's Reed-grass 485

Oat-like Hair-grass 157

Old Witch-grass 350.

One-flowered ( Iratna 194

-sided Blue-grass 553

Orchard Barley 626

-grass 269

Pale Manna-grass 283

Parish's Feather-grass 439

Wheat-grass 590

Patterson's Blue-grass 548

Perennial Bent 478

Phippsia 118

Porcupine-grass 89

Porter's Reed Bent 488

Poverty grass 414

Prairie-grass 119

Spear-grass 277

Triple-awn 418

Pringle's Blue-grass 549

Feather-grass 429

Purple Canary-grass. 79

-grass 221

Love-grass 516

Paspalum 327

Reed Bent 491

Sand-grass 509

Purple-top Blue-grass -557

330

Pnrsh"s xVniphicarpon - . 32

QuaUing-gta.ss 268

Rat's-tail Fesciio 581

Kattlesnake-grass 28i

KedBent 480

Keaiield's Grass 2;i8

IJed-Iiaircd Authenantia 33G

Itedtoi) -183

Ilccd Hciit 475

Canary-grass 411

Muadow-grass 280

Fescue 287

Ueeds 409

Kescue-grass 293

Eeverchon's Panic-grass 3u0

Rice Cut-grass 76

Richardson's Feather-grass 435

"Wheat-grass 597

Rocky Mountain Oat-grass 101

Rot hrock's Grama 203

Rough-flowered Rat-tail-grass 306

FoxlaJl 66

-leafed Salt-grass 464

Leptochloa 2i5

Panic grass 351

-stalked Meadow-grass 539

Rdund-Howcred Panic 57

Ru.sli-like Spaitina 170

Tiiuotliy 113

-grass 455

Rye-grass 295

Saccaton 458

Salt Cedar 220

Lymc-grass 016

Reed-grass 172

Sand Blue-grass 550

Broom Sedge 318

Bur 69

Rush-grass 456

Saunders Lynie-grass 6^3

Scribner's Feather-grass 438

Sea Lynie-grass 301

Spear-grass 280

Seaside Barley 601

Beard-grass 47 J

Fiuger-grass 182

Oats 265

Rush-grass 470

Seed Mesquitc l'.)7

Sheep's Fescue 577

Short-awued Grama 201

Short-avrned Reed-grass 143

-bearded Broom-sedge 310

-haired Reed-grass 150

-leafed Beard-grass 192

Wheat-grass 601

-spiked Broom-sedge 310

-stalked Eragrostis 242

Meadow-grass 247

Uniola 531

Shorfs Fescue 574

Showy Feather-grass 440

Shrubby Drop-seed 445

Side Oats 195

^ ilky Oat-grass 170

Silver-beard 11

Oat-grass 498

Silvery beard-grass 1 1

Blue-grass 560

Hair-grass 152

Oat-grass 163

Panic-grass 40

Six-weeks Grama 500

Mesquit 190

Sleepy Grass - - 437

Slender Beut-grass 481

Broom-sedge 312

Cut-grass 78

Dupontia 565

Featlier-grass . 432

Fescue 580

-flowered Melie-grass 526

Blue-grass 558

Dropsced 101

Hair-grass 150

Hard-grass 583

Indian lleed 477

Lyme-grass 611

Meadow-grass 512

Mountain Blue-grass 537

Oat-grass 102

Panicuni 39

I'aspalum 20

Rat tail-grass 307

Rusli-grass 469

Sand-bur 404

Spear-grass 535-554

Triodia 505

Wlieat-grass 593

woolly jianic 343

Slough-grass 208

Small Cane 353

337

Small-flowered Melic- n;rass 518

Mountain Rice 96

-glumeil Drop-seed 4-19

Grama 206

-jointed Panic-grass 46

Melic-grass 520

Mountain Rice 442

-topped Fescue 578

Witch-grass 349

Smith's ilelic-grass 527

Smooth Brome 290

Chloris 180

Crab-grass 37

Paspalum 27

Smut-grass 126

Soft Chess 585

TTool-grass 34

Southern Canary grass 80

Poverty-grass 466

Reed-grass 495

Sand-btir 405

Spear-grass 241,276

TVater-grass 41

Spider Bent-grass 140

Spike-like Poverty-grass 417

Spiked Triodia 507

Spiral-awned Plume-grass 304

Sprangle-top 567

Spreading Spear-grass 571

Sprouting Crab-grass 51

Spruce-top 502

Sqiiirrcl-tail Grass 603

Stapfia 517

Strong-scented Sporobolus 121

Summer-grass 533

Swamp Chess 583

Poverty-grass 86

Sweet Vernal-grass 82

Switch-grass 54

Tall Grama 195

Oat-grass 167

Rat-tail-grass 305

Tennessee Fescue 289

Oat-grass 169

Terrell-grass 612

Texan Crab-grass 193

Drop-seed 403

Timothy 450

Texas Millet 44

Blue-grass 542

Poverty-grass 421

19819— :N"o. 17 22

Texas "Witch-grass 348

Thatch 177

Thick-rooted Bunch-grass 261

Thin grass 478

Threadlike Muhlenbergia 108

Thurber's Rush-grass 465

Timothy 114

Toothache-grass 178

Torrey 's ^Melic-grass 519

Silver Beard-grass 8

Tracy's Blue-grass 541

Tufted Grama 501

Hair-grass 155

Triple-awn 415

Twisted Beard-grass 322

Vanilla-grass 8.i

Vasey's Blue-grass 550

Bunch-grass 598

Paspalum 328

Reed-grass 490

Velvet-grass 151

Vine Mesquite-grass 45

Viscid Leptochloa 213

Wall barley 605

"Walter's Paspalum 326

"U'ater Bent grass 434

"Water millet 4U8

"Water "Whorl-grass 256

"Warty Panic-grass 49

Watson Blue-grass 540

Webber's Panic-grass 377

West Indiana Rush-grass 457

Western Blue-grass : . . . 540

Bunch-grass 416

Cord-grass 175

Xeedle-grass 436

Prickle-grass 324

Wheat-grass 594

White-grass 77

Mountain Rice 93

Top 233

Wild Barley 600

Millet 98

Oat 499

Oat grass 108

Rice 409

Timothy 103

Windmill-grass 185

Wire Bent 294

Bunch-grass 599

-grass 85

338

Wiry Grama 200

Panic-grass 346

Triodia 506

Wolfs False Oat 497

Wood ileadow-grass 546

■Woodland Blue-grass 536

Drop-seed 102

Spear-grass 275

"Wood yMelic-grass 523

Drop-seed 444

"Woolly -jointed Grama 199

-flowered Panic-grass 345

Poverty-grass 87

"Wright's Broom Sedge 320

"Wrinkle-flowered Paspalum 28

Yard-grass 209

Yellow Colpodium 564

Fox-tail 401

•haired Lyme-grass 618

Spear-grass 552

INDEX-LATIX NAMES.

[The figures refer to the nnmher of the illustration. Jfumhers 1-302 inclusive
are in Bulletin Iso. 7. Names in italics are synonyros.]

Agrostis alba L 483

arachnoides Ell 140

asper Michx llf)

coarctata Ehih 136

comprcssa Torr 125

cryptandra Torr 456

densitiora Tasey 137

(liegoensis Vasey 139

dowH'njrcji.sts Schultes ... 457

elliottiaua Schult 140

/oJio«(i Vasey 139

geniinata Trin 479

humilis Vasey 135

junceiis Michx 455

latifolia Treviran 477

littoralin With 472

l>aluclosa Scribn 482

lierennans Tuckerm 478

pringlei Scribn 138

rubra Linn 480

rnpestris Chapm 480

serotina Torr 454

stolon if era Linn 484

coarctata Keichb 136

tricholcpis Ell 443

varians Trin 135, 481

verticillata Vill 484

virginica Linn 470

^gilops aroh}atica\*! aXt 178

Agropyron arizonicum Scribn. &

Smith 600

divergens Nees 599

gme lini Scribn. &
Smith 601

lanceolatum Scribn. &
Smith 596

parishii Scribn. ic
Smith 590

pseudorepens Scribn. &
Smith 592

repens Beauv 298

richardsoni Schrad 597

Agropyron rip ari urn Scribn. &

Smith 595

scribneri Va sey 299

spicatum Scribn. &

Smith 594

tenerum Vasey 593

vaseyi Scribn. &.

Smith 598

violaceum Vasey 591

Aira ccerulea L 5io

caryopbyllea L 152

cristata Linn 517

danthonioides Trin 157

nitida Spr 253

praecox L 153

purpurea "Walt 509

subspicata L 160

Alopecurus alpinus J. E. Smith . . . 452

geniculatus L 115

occidentalis Scribn ... 117

pratensis L 116

alpestrig A.

Gray 117

Ammophila arenaria Link 149

ariindinacea Host 149

curtissii Yasey 495

Amphicarpon floridanum Chapm . 33

purshiiKunth 32

Andropogon argyraeus Schultes ... 11
brachystachys

Chapm 316

contortus L 322

curtissianiim Steud.. 313

elliottii Chapm 12

furcatug iluhl 14

glomeratus B. S. P. 9,317

gracilis Sprang 312

halepensia Brot 321

hallii Hack 319

hirtitlorus var. oli-
gostachyus Hack. 311
339

340

Andropofcon licb in a n n i mohrii

Hack 314

longiberbis Hack .... 315
macron III s Michx . 9,317
niaritinms Cliapm . .. 318

luclanocarpus Ell 323

mohrii 314

nutans arenaceus

Hack 15

paiicitloins Hack 17

provincialis Lam .... 14
oli g 0 s t a c h yu s

Cbapm 311

pohjdactylon L 187

saccliaroides torrey-

anus Hack 8

.scopariua Michx 13

scoi)arius mari-

ti)«MS Hack 318

seeundug'EW 10

semiberbis Kuutli . .. 310

tenor Kuntb 30n

?ener Curtiss 310

tetrastachys Ell 313

var. (lis-
tachyug
Cliapm 315

torreyamts Steud 8

unilaterali.s Hack 16

virgiuicus L 10

t e t r a-
sta c b y 3
Hack ... 313

wrightii Hack 320

Anthenantia rnfa Scliultes 336

villosaBentb 337

Antbochloa colusana Scribn 517

Antlioxantlium odoraliiin L 82

Arctagrostis aruiidi nncca T'>cal 475

latit'olia Gri.seb 474

Ariatida basiramca Eugelni. 415

californica Tlmrb 413

de.smantliaTrin. it Ilupr. 416

dichotoma Michx 414

divergen.»» Va.scy 421

fasciculata Torr 419

floridana Vaspy 422

gOH.sy])iiia Itosc 87

hiivardii Vasey 420

laiiataVoir 87

oligantbu Mx 418

Aristida palustris Vaspy 86

spicilbnuis Kll 417

stricta Michx 85

tubcrculo.sa Kntt 88

rinjata 'jiidustrix C\\\i\''m . 86

Arrhcnatboiiim clatius Beauv 167

Aruudinaria maciospenua, Michx . 627

Arundo hrevipiliK Torr 150

cinnoidcs Miibl 485

festncacen Willd 507

j)h rarivi itcs 1 229

vulgaris Lam 229

Asperella californica l?cal 626

li>strix Mopncb 302

Asprella liystrix Willil 302

Aitlazantlnis rufim TiU 03(i

Avena amcricaua (Scribn.) 1C5

elatiorlj 107

I'atua Linn 499

/iooA-eri Scribn ifi.")

smithii T. C. Porter 527

mortoniana Scribn 1 (!6

pratensix var. americana

Scribn 1G5

tpicata L 168

Bcckmanniaerucreforrais Host ... 208

r.lcpbaridachne kingii Hack 50 1

IJlepbaronoiuou tri(liolei)i,s Xaah . . 471

Boutelouaari8ti(b)ide.<i Tlmrb 190

brcviscta Vasey 201

bromoides Lag 502

burkii Scribn 2;17

cnrtijjcndiila Torr l'X>

eriopodu Torr 199

bavardi Vasey 198

hirsuta Lag 205

oligostachya Torr 20 1

polystacbya Torr 500

prostrata Lag 5ul

racern oso Lag 19.')

riimosa Scribn 200

rothrockii Vasey 203

texana S.Wats 197

trifida Tlmrb 200

nnitlora X'ascy 194

vestita Scribn 202

Bracbyelytnini arislatum K. & S. . 112
erectum Beauv .. . 112

Briza media L 208

lirizii]/!iri'iit(louglaiiiiiilIoo\i.& Am 562
Bromiis l>ri/.:i't'ornii» Fiscli. & Mey 292

341

Br^raua ciliatus Liuu 583

hookerianus Thurb 582

honleaceus Linii 585

inerniis Leyss 290

kalmiiA. Gray 584

mollis Linu 585

secaliuiis L 291

spicattis Xces 211

tectorum Linn 586

unioloides K DK 293

Buchloc dactijloides Eugelm 220

liulbilis dactyloides Raf 220

Calaiuagrostis alentica Triii 1-15

bolanderi Thurb. . . 147
breviseta Scribn . . . 143

breweri Tbiirb 486

cinnoidcs Scribn... 485
confiiiis A. Graj- . . . 487
crassiglumis Thurb 142

cui-tissii Vasey 495

desch ampsioides

Trin 144

fasciculata Kearney 493

howellii Vasey 148

inexpansa A.Gray- 487
laugsdorffii Trin . . . 494
macouniana Vasey. 492
inckeringii A. Gray 143
nuttalliana Steud . 485

porteri A. Graj' 488

purpurascens K.

Br 490,491

scopulorum M. E.

Jones 489

t weedy i Scribn 146

vasey i Heal 490

Calamovilfa brevipilis Scribn 150

curtissii (Vasey) 495

Campulosus aromaticus Trin 178

chapadensis Trin 179

Capriola dactylon Kuntze 171

Catabro.<a aquatica Beauv 256

Cathestecum erectum Vasey 224

prostratnm Presl 224

Cenchrus echinatus L 407

gracillimns Xash 404

granidari.t JAun 6

incertns M. A. Curt 405

macrocephalus Scribn . . 406

myosuroides HBK 70

stricttis Chapm 405

Cenchrus tribuloides L 69,406

tnbuloicJes var. inacro-

cephalusJ)oe\l 406

Ceratochloa grandiflora Hook 582

Chaitochloa composita Scribn 67

corrugata Scribn 66

glauca Scribn 401

italica Scribn 68

magna Scribn 402

verticillat a Scribn 403

viridis Scribn 65

Chloris alha Presl 186

cucnllata Biscli 184

duUa HBK 217

elegans HBK 180

floridana Vasey 183

glaucaVasey 180

negleetaKash 181

petraea Sw 182

polydactyla Sw 187

sirartziana Doell 182

tesensis Xash 188

verticillata Nutt 185

C'ho7idroduns 2)olystachyra'Benth . 500

Cinna arnndinacca L 134

bolanderi Scribn 476

glomerata "Walt 317

macroura Thurb 130

latifolia Griseb 477

pendida Trin 477

Coleantlius subtilis Seid 453

Colpodium ariindinaceum'Roo'k. . . 475

fulvuni Griseb 564

latifolium 11. Br 474

pendulinum Griseb 563

Corn ucopice percnn ans "Walt 478

Cottea pappophoroides Kth 223

Cnjpsis schoe7ioides Lam 113

Ctenium ainericanumSpTeug 178

chax>adense DoeW 179

Cynodon dactylon Pers 171

Cynosurus cegyptiusL, 210

cristatus L 255

Dactylis glomerata L 269

jnariiim« "Walt 177

patens Ait 174

Dactylocteniumopgr!/_p<iac«m WiUd. 210
ffigyptiura "U'illd . . 210

Danthonia compressa Austin 169

sericea Xutt 170

spicata Beauv 16S

342

Deschampsiaatropurpnrea Sc'heele 158 !

calycina Presl 157

. elougata ^luuro l.'iG

fiexuosa Triu 155

holcit'ormis Presl 154

Deyeuxia macouniana Vasey 492

Diarrhena americana Beauv 262

Digitaria saivjuinalis Scop 339

serotina Mx 38

Dinebrabrotnoides H. 15. K 502

Diplachne dubia Hcrihn 217

imbrieata iScribu 214

rigida Vasey 250

reuerr/iojii Vasey 211

spicatn Doell 211

viscida Scribii 213

Bissantlieliuin Californicum Btiith 239

Disticblis maritima liaf 267

spicnta Oreeue 267, 515

texaiia Sciibu 532

Dupoiitia fischeri K. Br 566

psilosantba Kupr 565

Ka t on ia dudleyi V^aaey 253

filifiirmis Vasey 254

iiitida Xasb 253

obtusata A. Gray 252

jiennsylvanica A. Gray... 251

Kleiisiiio iiulicaGaertu 209

Kliimuriis barbi('ubui8 Hack 7

tripsacoides Huinpb. &.

Bonpl 308

Elymiis arenariiis L 301

brownei Scribn 619

c-oiulensatus Presl 617

rtasystacbys littoralis Gri-

seb 621

flavescens Scribn. i Sniitli 618

Aa»i«eni Scribn 024

bir.sutigliiniis Scribn 620

innovatiLs Beal 619

interniedius Bieb 620

intermcdiun Scribn. &

Smitb 620

macounii Vasey 614

robu.stus Scribn. &. Sraitb. 613

salinns Jones 615

saiiudcrsii Vasey 623

simplex Scribn. & "Wil-
liams 616

striatus "Willd Oil

villosissimus Scribn 622

Elynnis virginicus Linn 612

Enodium cceruleumG:\w\ 510

Ei)icanii)es ligulata Scribn i:il

rigeiis Bentli lliO

Eragrostis abyxsin ica 240

brownei Xees 244

capillari.s Nees 514

ciliarisLink 248

cilia lis jiatcns Chuym. . 249

cuii/eita Trill 240

curtipedicellata Buckl. 242

fendleriana Steud 543

frankii Steud 247

glomerata L. II. Dewey 246

hypnoides B. S. P 24.1

major riost 511

neo-mexicana Vasey. .. 240

obtusiflora Scribn 515

oxylcpi'i Torr 516

pectinacea Stued 243

pilosa Beauv 512

plumosa Link 249

pooeoides var. tnegas-

tachija A . G ray 511

purshii Scbrad 241

reptans Nees 245

secunditiora Presl 516

sessilispica Buckl 250

tenuis A.Gray 513

fricbodca Nasli 513

Eremocidd' kiiigii S. Wats 504

Eriantbus alopecuroides Xasli 304

compactus Xasb 3

eoiitortiisFM 304

tacchaioides contort ns

Rack 304

strictus BaUUv. 4

Eriochloalenimoni Vasey & Scribn. 36

midlis Kuntb 34

]>unctata W. Ilamilt 35

sericea Munr 338

Eriocoma cuspidata Xutt 97

webberi Thnrh 441

Eustachys fioridana ("liai>ni 183

glatica Cbajmi 180

Festucaco«ft'/ii* Vasey 573

dcciiiiibens Linn 508

dasyclada Ilackl 576

elatiorarundin.-ici'a Hack. 287

])ratensis Hack. . .. 288

jonesii Vasey 575

343

Festuca kjngii Scribn 573

niicrostacliys Xutt 578

rayiiros Liuu 581

obtusa Spreiis 574

octotloni Walt 579, 580

oviiia Linn 577

rubra glaucescens Hack.. 289

sciuiea Xutt 579

sliortii Kuntb 574

subiilata Bong 526

tenella Willcl 580

Gastridium australe Beauv 141

lendigerum Gaudin. .. 141

Glyceria aeutijlora Torr 568

aquatica J. E. Smith 280

canadensis Trin 284

distans Wahl 571

clonrjata Trin 282

jlidtans "R-Bv 285

lemmoni Vasey 572

niaritima M. & K 286

iiercataTrin 281

pallida Trin 283

Graphepborum/fXMoSMWi, Thurb . 238
fulvum A. Gray . . 564
niellcoideum

Beaiiv 279

pMosantlms ( ?) . 565

Greenia arkansana Xutt 133

Gyynnostichum californicuni Bo-
land 626

hijitrix'ArAiV^h 302

Gymnopogon ambiguus B. S. P 191

brevifolius Trin 192

racemoius V>ea.\i\' 191

Hackelochloa grannlaris Kuntze.. 6

Heleochloa schoenoides Host 113

Hemarthriafasciculata Kunth 5

Hierochloa alpina R. & S 410

horealis 'R. Sz, a 83

macrophylla Thurb 84

Hilaria cenchroides HBK 18

jamesii Beiith 20

muticaBenth 19

rigida Vasey 21

Holcus alpinus Sw 410

halepensis Linn 321

lauatus L 151

Homalocenchrus hexandrus Brit-
ton 75

Homalocenchrus 1 e n t i c u 1 a r i s

Scribn 74

monandrus Brit-
ton 78

ory/.oides Poll. .. 70
virginicus Brit-
ton 77

Hordeum adscendens H BK 607

boreale Scribn. \- Smith . 300

gussonianuui Pari 606

jubatum Linn 6u:i

maritimum AVitli 604

montanense Scribn 608

murinum Linn 605

nodosum Linn 600

pusillum Nutt 610

Hystrix patiila Moeuch 302

Imiterata brasiliensis Trin 303

brevifolia Vasey 2

caudata Chapm 303

Scribn 2

hookeri Rupr 2

lichcemiim secundatuni Wait 72

Kaderia cristata Pers 517

Korycarpus diandrus Kuntze 202

Lamarckia aurea Moench 270

Lappago aliena Spreng 324

Leersia hexandra Sw 75

lenticrdaris Michx 74

monandraSiW 78

oryzoides S w 76

virginica Willd 77

Leptochloa dubia Xees 217

Leptochloa imbricata Thurb 214

fascicularis A. Gray . . 212

langloisii Vasey 215

mucronata Kunth 219

neallcyi Vasey 216

pringlei Beal 218

scabra Nees 215

spicata Scribn 211

stricla Fourn 216

viscida Beal 213

Lepturas bolanderi Thurb 297

flliformisTrin 588

incur vatii.s Trin 589

Lesourdia karwinskyana Fourn. . . 225

muUiflora 225

Limnodia arkansana Dewy 133

Loliumitalicum A. Br 296

perenue L 295

344

Lolium ti-niulentuni Linn 587

Lopkochlaeiia cali/ornica Nees 529

refracta A. Gray ... 263

Liizidla alabaniensis Chapm 73

Lyciirus i)bleoiil('S HBK 450

Manisnris compressa Knntze 5

coiTugata Kuntze 305

cylindrlca Kiiutze 307

gran ularis Sw 6

rugosa Kuntze 306

Melica acuminata Boland 526

aristata Thurb 528

bulbosa Tburb 522

bulbosa Gej-er 261

californica Scribn 522

colpodioides Kees 518

frutcscens Scribn 523

iugax Boland 520

glahra Mx 257

liarl'ordii Boland 525

imperfecta Trin 518

inflata Vasey 524:

loDgilignla Scribn. & Kear-
ney 521

mutica "Walt 257

iniUica ijarvijlora Porter. . - 258

panicoides Xiitt 518

parviflora Scribn 258

poaeoides Torr 522

porteii Scribn 258

sniitbii Tasey 527

spectabilis Scribn 259

stricta Boland 260

Melica siibiilata Scribn 526

torreyana Scribn 519

Milium eflusum L 98

lendigerum Linn 141

Molinia cajrulea Moench 510

ilonantbocbloe littoralis Engelm . 226

Mubk'ubergiacapillaria Trin 448

comata Bentli 444

diflusa Sclireb 99

duniosa Scribn 445

filiculinis Yasey 108

(jlonifiata Trin 103

gracilliiiia Torr 108

gracilis Trin Ill

lenimoni Scribn 447

nifxicana Trin 100

monticola Buckley. 446
parviglumis A'asey. 449

Mublenbergia i)orteri Scribn 105

pringlei Scribn 104

puDgeus Thurb 107

racenidsa B. S. P 10:j

scliaflneri Fouru ... 109

sylvatica Torr 102

tenuifloraB. S. P... 101

texanalhurh 105

trichopodcs Chapm. 443

virescens Trin 110

icilldenovii Trin 101

Munroa arjuarrosa Torr 227

Kardus stricta L 294

Nazia aliena Scribn 324

racemosa aliena Seribu. &

Smith 324

Keostapfa cohisana Davy 517

Oplismenus hirtellus K. & S 400

Orcuttia californica Tasey 228

greenii Vasey 503

Oryzojisis asperifolia Michx 93

canadennis Torr 442

exigua Tburb 95

fimbriata Hemsl 94

junceaB. S. P 442

kingii Beal 90

melanocarpa Mubl 92

tnemhranacea Vasey ... 97

micrantha Thurb 9G

pnnijlei Beal 429

■\vebberi Vasey 441

Panicularia acutiflora Kuntze 5G8

aquatica Kuntze 280

borealis Xash 569

canadensis Kuntze . . . 284

elongata K iiutze 282

fluitans Kuntze 285

ncrvata Kuntze 281

obtusa Kuntze 570

jiallida Kuntze 283

Panicum addisonii Nash 374

agrnstoidcs iluhl 352

albomarginntum Nash .. 359

aiiiannu Ell 55

anceps Michx 53

ancepx utrictidn Chapm . . 40

aiigustata 509

aiiiiustifolium Ell 390

atlanliciiin Xash 372

autiimnale Jioac 347

345

Panicum baldwinii Scribn 358

barbulatum Michx 59

boreale Nash 58

bri ttoiii Nash 368

bulbosum HBK 56

capillare Liun 350

capillaro var. fiexile Gat-

tingpr 346

capillare var. minimum

Scribn 349

capillaroides Va.sey 348

ciliatissimuni Biiekl 344

ciliaium Ell 379

ciliatii'olium Kuuth 379

ciliiferum Nash 382

clamlestinum Linn 388

cognatuni Schultes 347

colon u m L 63

colunibianum Scribn 60

corruijaUnn Ell 66

crus-aalli L 64

dactyljn L 171

demissum Trm 01

depauperatura Mulil 385

dichotomuiu Linn 366

dichotomum var. nitidum

Ciiapm 358

dyf((sit??i Pursh 349

divaricatum Linn 353

diuergen* Muhl 347

eatoni Nash 371

elougatnm Parsh 352

eusliui Triu 384

equilaterale Scribn 395

erectifoliiiin Xash 361

filipes Scribn 50

flexile Scribn .346

gibbum Ell 47

glaucum Linn 401

glabrilbliuni Nash 381

glabrum GeinA 37

gracillimum Scribn 39

grossariuiu L 43

gymnocarpon Ell 3.'J4

Mans VA\ 48

hirtellum Linn 400

hirticauluni .J. S. Presl .. 351

ignoratuni Kunth 337

implicatum Scribn 373

lachnanthum Torr 342

lanatum Rottb 42

Panicum latifolium Linn 353, 396

laxifloruui Lam 378

leibcrgii Scribn 397

leucoconium Scribn 40

leucothrix Nash 300

leucoiihceum H BK 42

lineare Krock 37

lineurifolium Scribn 3f-4

1 o u g i ]) e d u n c n La t u III

Scribn 62

lucidum Ashe :^63

■macram Kunth 384

lualacon Nash 381)

raalacopliylhim Nash 392

manatense Nash 383

melicariiim Michx 48

inicrocarpon Muhl 305

luinns Nash 349

5«o^/e Michx 34

midtijlorum Ell 365

nashianuni Scribn 01

nitidum var. minor Ya-

sey 358

nudicaule Vasey 370

obtusuui HBK 45

octonodum J G.Smith .. 369

ovale Ell 398

paspaloides Pers 41

paucifloriim Ell 389,394

pedicellatum Vasey ..... 375

pltceotlirix ^iCTihn 40

platyphyllum Miniro 340

polyanthes Schultes 305

polycaulon Nash 380

portcrianum Nash 3',)6

proliferum Lam 51

prostratum Linn ... 341

pnbescens Lam 307

ramulosum Michx 363

repens L 52

reverchoni Tasey 350

ruf am Kunth 336

saccliaratum Buckl 342

sanguinale Linn 171,339

scabriuscuhim Ell 387

scoparium A. Gray 393

leibergii Vasey 397

Michx 386

scribneriauum Nash 333

serotinum Trin 3<

sphairocarpon Ell 57

346

Panicuin sphitrocarpon var. liori-
d a u u m
Vasey.. 361

sphagnicolum Nash 362

steuocles Oriscb 46

subspicatuiu Vasey 355

U-nerriiuuiu Kuntb 343

texanum Biickl 44

tseu£retorum Nash 370

urvilleauuin Kunth 345

verrucosiini iliihl 49

veiticillatum hinn 403

villosuni Ell 367

virgatum L 54

viiideL, 65

■viscidum Ell 386, 387

ualteri Poir 396

webberiauum Nash 377

werneri Scribn 364

wilcosianum Vasey 391

wrightiannm Scribn 357

xauthopysum A. Gray. . . 399

Pappophoruiu npertum Scribn 222

boreale Torr 221

wrightii S.Wats.... 221

Paspaluiu bitidiim Nash 334

blodgcttii Chapm 332

boscianum Flugge 327

compressuni Nees 24

curtissianmu Steiid 329

ditToniie Lc Conte 29

d'njita lia Poir 23

dilatatum Poir 31

distichum L 25

elUottii S. Wats 23

floridanuni Michx 30

fluUans Kunth 325

giganleum Vasey 333

lacivoMiehx 27

li vidum Triu 330

njembranaceum Walt. . . 326
ni«n()staihyiini Vasey.. 335

mucronatiim ^luhl 325

ovatum Nees 31

paspaloides Scribn 23

■plattjcaulc Vo'iv 24

]dicatuliini Michx 28

pubijlorum Ruin- 328

purpurascens Ell 327

racemiilomnii Cliapni . . . 334
scrobiculatum Liun 331

Paspalum setaceum Michx 26

vaseyanuni Scribn 328

virgatum Walt 327

puhiflo rv,in

Vasey 328

walterianum Schultes . . 326

Pennisetum setosuiii llicb 71

Phalaris aiuethystina Trin 79

angustaNees 81

arundinacea Linn 411

caroliuiana Walt 80

e;'wtf«/ormis Linn 208

intennedia Bosc 80

a n g u s t a

Chapm 81

lemnioni Vasey 412

villosa Michx 337

Phleum alpinum Linn 451

crinitum Eoxb 473

pratense L 114

schcenoides L 113

Phippsia algida R.Br 118

Phragmites communis Trin 229

vulgaris B. S. P 229

Pleiiraphig rigida Thurb 21

Pleuropogon californica Vasey 529

refraclum Benth 263

Poa alpina L 272

alsodes A. Gray 536

amUgua Ell 232

annua Linn 533

arachnifera Torr 542

argentea Howell 560

arida Vasej' 277

bolandsri Vasey 545

bigelovii Vasey & Scribn 534

brevifolia Muhl 276

buckleyana Nash 278

capillariis Scribn 556

capillaris Linn 514

chapmaniana Scril)n 271

ciliaris L 248

conipressa Linn 544

confevta Ell 246

cusickii Vasey 555

deliilis Torr 535

distans L 571

douglassii Nees 562

elongata Torr 282

feudleriana Vasey 543

fuba Trin 564

347

Poa glomerata Walt 246

glumaris Trin 561

gracillima Vasey 554

hypnoides Lam 2-15

iiiterrtipta Nutt 516

kelloggii Yasey 274

kingii S. Watts 573

leckenbyi Scribn 550

lemmoni Vasey 572

leptocoma Bong 537

lettermani Vasey 547

lucida Vasey 552

maritima Huds 286

obium Muhl 570

occidcntali.s Vasey 540

nemoralis Linn 546

nevadensis Scribn 551

nudata Scribn 556

pattersoni Vasey 548

pilosa L 512

pratensis L 273

priiigloi Scribn 549

pulchdla Vasey 559

purpurascens Vasey 557

reilexa Vasey <fc Scribn 538

sylvestris A. Gray 275

tenerrima Scribn 558

tenuifolia Buckley 278

tenuis Ell 514

texana Vasey 532

tracyi Vasey 541

trichodes Nutt 513

trivialis Linn 539

unilateralis Scribn 553

vaseyocbloa Scribn 559

Polypogon littoralis Smitb 472

maritimus Willd 473

monspiliensis Desf 132

Puccinellia distans Pari 571

lemmoni (Vasey) 572

maritima Pari 286

Redfieldia tiesuosa Vasey 238

Reimaria oligostachy a Munro 22

Bottboellia ciliata Nntt 308

comjjressa L. f 5

corrugata Baldw 305

cylindrica Chsi]i 307

filifonnis Roth 588

incurvata Linn 589

rugosa Nutt 306

Saccharum contortum Nutt 304

Savastana alpina Scribn 410

macrophy Da (Scribn.)-- 84

odorata Scribn 83

Schedonnardus paniculatus Trea-

lease 193

texanus Steud 193

Schmidtia subtilis Tratt 453

utrieulosa Sternb 453

Scleropogon brevifolius Pliilippi.. 225

Scolocbloa festucacea Link 567

Scribneria bolanderi Hack 297

Secale montan um G uss 602

Sc'taria compoaita HBK 67

corrugata Scbult 66

^iawca Beauv 401

italica Yiea.\iY 68

magna Griseb 402

verticillata Beauv 403

viridix Beauv 65

Sieglingia acuminata Kuntze 235

albescens Kuntze 233

americana Beal 237

decumbens Bernh 508

eragrostoides Dewey 230

piilchella Kuntze 236

nealleyi I'ewey 234

purpurea Kuntze 509

wrightii Vasey 532

Sitanion glaber J . G. Smith 625

banseni J. G. Smith 624

Sorghum halepenae Pers 321

paucijiorum Chapm 17

Spartina cynosuroides Willd 173

dennfiora Brongn 176

glabra Muhl 177

gouini Fourn 176

gracilis 'Crin 175

jitncea Ell 174

juuciformis Engelm &

Gray 176

patens Muhl 174

polystachya Ell 172

stricta maritima Scribn.. 177

Sporobolus airoides Terr 127

argutus Kunth 128

arundinaceus Vasey . . 475

asper Kunth 119

asperifolius Thurb 464

buckleyi Vasey 459

compressus Kunth 125

confusus Vasey 129

348

Bporobolus curtissii Small 124

(■ryptandrus A. Gray . . 456
•loraingensis Kiinth. .- 457

fliividanus Chapni 123

jloridanus curtissii

Vasey 124

heterolepis A. Gray... 121

iiKlicnsR. Br 126

intcrruptus Vasey 122

jonesii Tasey 460

junccus Kunth 455

ligiilatus Vasey and

Ue way 461

lougitblius Wood 120

nealleyi Vasey 462

serotinus A. Gray 454

simplex Scribn 468

texauus Vasey 463

thiirberi Scribn 465

iitilis Torr 467

vaginietlorus Wood . . . 466

virgiuicus Kuntb 470

•wrigbtii Scribn 458

Stapfia coh(sana Davy 517

Stenochloa calif ornica Xutt 239

Stenotapbruui a in e r i c an u m

Schrank 72

s e c II n d a t u m

Kuntze 72

Sti'pa aveiiacea Linn 423

aveuaceoides Nash 424

baibata Michx 423

bloomori Boland 433

capillarisLani 448

comata Tiiu. .S; Itujir 425

coronata Tliurbei- 434

hassei Vasey 427

jtincea tilx 442

kingii Bolaud 90

macouiii Scribn 431

vielaniicari)a iluhl 323

7nemhranacea Pursh 97

mongolica Trin 91

neouiexicaua Scrilm 428

occidentaliH Tliiirl) 436

oregoni'usis Scril)u 426

parishii Vasey 439

p en not a var. neo-mexicana

Vasey 42s

pringlei Scribn 429

Stipa richardsoiii Link 435

richardsonii A. Gray 431

■robusta Kutt 437

scribueri Vasey 438

sibirica Thurb 433

spartea Trin 89

speciosa Trin. & Kupr 440

stricta Vasey 426

tenuissima Trin 432

vaseyi Scriljn 437

viridula Trin 430

viridula var. robusta Vasey . 437

Streptachne jioridana Cbapm 422

Syntherisma linearis Nash 37

^u«'CO.r AValt 339

sfj-o^um Walt 38

Thurberiaarkansanalicuxh 133

Trachynotia polystachya Michx . . . 172

Tragus occidentaUs Xecs 324

Trichachne teimis Nees 343

Trichloris blancbardiana Scribn . . 189

fasciculala Fouru 189

pluriflora Fourn 190

Tricuspis monstrosa Muuro 225

vtuticaTorr 505

imrpnrca A. Gray 509

Triodia acuminata Vasey 235

albescens "^'asey 233

ainbigua Vasey 232

dccumbens Beauv 508

eragrostoides Vasey it

Scribn 230

mutica Scribn 505

nealleyi Vasey 2;;4

]puUhclIa HBK 230

stricta Vasey 507

texana S.Wats 231

trinervighimis Vasej' 506

Triplasis americana P.eauv 237

imrpurea (Chapm.) 509

Tripsacuni cylindricitm Michx .... 307

dactyloides L 1

Trisetum argenteuni Scribn 498

canescens liuckl 103

cernuum Trin 104

elunr/atum 162

interruptum Buckl 1G2

niontauuni Vasey 161

iiiuticuni Scribu 490

l)ahi8tro 'I'orr 150

349

Trisetum subspicatum Beauv 160

iubspicatuin var. muti-

cioiiBol -- 496

wolfli Vasey 496, 497

Triticxim divergens Steud 599

junceum Hook 596

littoraleVM 621

repens L 298

richardsoni Trin 597

violaccum Horniim 591

TJniola grraciJis Miclix 266

latifolia Micbx 264

laxaB.S.P 266

loiigifolia Scribn 530

nitida Ell 531

paniculata L 265

seasilitlora Poir 531

Tasej/a comata Tburb 444

Vilfa arnuta Neea 128

arimdinacea Triu 475

asperi/olia^eva S: Meyer... 464
depauperata var. filiformis S.

Wats 469

dommgcnsis Trin 457

rigens Boland 130

tricholepis Torr 471

vaginceflora Torr 4ti6

Windsoria pallida Torr 283

stricta Niitt 507

Zizania aquatica Linu 409

miliacea Micbx 408

Zizaniopsis miliacea Doell <!c As-
chera 408

o

Bulletin No. 18. Agros.46.

U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE.

DIVISIOX OF AGROSTOLOGY.

[Orasiii and l^'orajg*- I'Isiiil I ■■rcNti;:alioii)<.]

AMEEICAN GEASSES.

A SYNOPSIS OF THE GENUS SITANION.

BY

JAREE) G^. SMITH.

PREPARED UKDER THE DIRECTION OF E. LAMSONSCRIBXER, AGROSTOLOGTST.

ISSXJIl:!) JUISTK 2 t, 1800.

WASHINGTON:

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.
1899.

LETTER OE TRANSMITTAL.

U. S. Department of Agriculture,

Division of Agrostology,
Washington, I). 0., May 3, 1899.

Sir: I have the liouor to transmit lierewitli the manuscript of a
paper entitled " Synopsis of the genus Sitanion,'" prepared under my
direction by Mr. Jared G. Smith, assistant agrostologist, and recom-
mend the same for publication as Bulletin ISTo. 18 of this division
under the general title of " Studies on American Grasses."

Eespectfully,

F. Lamson-Scribner,

Agrostoloyist.

Hon. James Wilson,

Secretary of Agriculture.

3

INTRODUCTION.

The many and striking" difif'ereiices presented by the specimens which
have been referred to Sitanion hystrix [Ely m us si tan ion) have long been
recognized, bnt no one has heretofore attempted to define or classify
them. From the material in the herbarium of the Academy of Natural
Sciences of Philadelphia, it is evident that Nnttall distinguished at
least two species. These are shown in Plate I, the tickets attached
to the specimens being in NuttalTs handwriting-. The large amount
of material in the National Herbarium, gathcre 1 from numerous and
widely separated localities by many collectors, has attbrded an excellent
opportunity for a study of the variations which with the increase of the
collection became more and more apparent, and the necessity of their,
classification more and more evident. The present paper, pre[)ared by
my direction, was undertaken to meet this necessity, autl while the
species here defined may require some modification after further studies
in the field, and while some classed as species may eventually be reduced
to varieties, the subject as i)resented can hardly fail to be of interest
to the student of grasses and helpful in the close discrimination of the
species of a critical group of plants,

Nuttall,' who first described the species of this genus, referred it to
the European ^Er/Uops and named his plant J^yilops hystrix. His
description was carefully drawn up and his species can be readily
recognized. A year later, Rafinesque- published his genus Sitanion,
based upon a single species, which he named iSitanion etymoides. It has
been found impossible to determine with certainty which of the species
enumerated in the present paper was the one named by IJafinesque; it
certainly was not, however, the grass described by Nuttall.

Our leading authorities, Bentham and Hooker,^ Hackel,^ and Baillon,^
have all reduced Sitanion to a section of Elym us. The articulate rachis,
readily breaking up at maturity, and the usually bifid or many parted
and awned empty glumes are well-defined characters, distinguishing
the si)ecies from Ulymus, and justifying their separation as a distinct

1 Genera North American Plants, 1: 86. 1818.

Mourn. Phys., 89: 103. 1819.

^Genera Plautarnm 3: p. 1207.

^Die Natiirlichen Pflanzenfamilien 2: part 2, p. 88.

*Histoire des Plantes, Monographie des Graminees, 2.58.

G

genus. To be sure there are species so closely connecting FJymm with
Sitanion that it is ditticult to determine to which genus they ought to
be referred, but the same is true in the case of Elymns and A(iyopyron;
there are intermediates which may with equal propriety be placed
either in the oue genus or the other.

That there are forms connecting Sitanion with Elijmus indicates their
close relationship, but this fact does not afford suflBcieiit reason for
uniting them, and the paper here presented, describing the many
species into which Sitanion may be divided, affords good evidence and
ample justification for its separation.

F. LaMSON SCRIB>EK.

C 0 \ T I: X T S

Page.

Characters of the genus 9

Analytical key to the species 9

Description of the species 10

Section I'olyautherix 10

Section Eiisitanion 12

Sectioii Horileiforni;:e 17

Section Elynioides 19

Index 21

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Page.

Plate I. Sitauion villosum J. G. Smith. Type 11

II. Sitiinion bystrix (Nutt. ) J. G. 8initb. Photograph of Nuttall's

type in the Herbarium of the Philadelphia Academy of Science... 15

III. Sitanion lirevifoliiim ,1. (i. .Smith. Typical 17

IV. Sitanion anoinalnm J. G. Smith. Cotyjie 20

8

A SYNOPSIS OF THE GENUS SITANION.

CHARACTERS OF THE GENUS.

SITANION Rafine8(iiie, in .Tonni. Phy.s., 89: 103, 1819.

J'UjUops Nutt., Gen. N. Am. PI., 1: 86, 1818; not Linn. (1737.)
Polyantherix Xees, iu Ann. Nat. Hist., Sev. I, 1: 284, 1838.

Ciespitose perennials with intravaginal innovations. Rbacliis of tlie spike artic-
ulating at the nodes; spikelets rarely 1, usually 2, or sometimes 3 at each node,
each subtended by 2 persistent empty glumes. Empty glumes all subulate,
setaceous and entire; or lanceolate and bitid; or many-parted from near the
base; with recurving or spreading, scabrous awns terminating each lobe.
Flowering glumes all alike, lanceolate, acute,* or that of the lowest floret sterile
and resembling the subulate-setaceous long-awned empty glumes; entire or
with a single terminal recurving or spreading awn, or tritid and 3-awned.
Inllorescence a spike, or very rarely spiciform-paniculate. A "enus endemic to
western North America, containing 23 species.

NoTK : Sitanion, section KhjmoUhx, consists of 4 species intermediate between this
genus and Elymiis. They are placed here tentatively, as being more closely allied
to Sitanion.

AXALYTKAL KKY TO THK SI'F.CIKS.

* Empty glumes many-lobed; lowest floret sterile, subulate-setaceous.

t Culms robust, 6-9 dm. high, spike and florets large; awn of the flowering

glume 8-10 cm. long 1. S. Jiiluitiim,

ft Culms l-o dm. high; spike and florets medium or small; awn of the flower-
ing glume 2-7 cm. long,
t Leaves short, flat, divergent; the blades and sheaths villous.

2. -S. villosum
U Leaves long, erect or ascending, involute, strigose or pubescent.

= Awns of the empty and flowering glumes about as long as the axis

of the spike 3. S. mnltiseium.

= == Awns of the empty and flowering glumes shorter than the axis
of the spike.
« Leaves of the innovations involute, filiform, pilose.

4. S. iwlyantherir.
h l.,eave8 of the innovations involute, rather rigid, strigose.

5. <S. hreiiariitaium.
**Some of the empty glumes 2-nerved, bifid from about the middle, the lobes
abruptly divergent; lowest floret of one or both spikelets sterile and like the
empty glumes, but inserted on tlie rhachilla and falling away with it.

tOnly one spikelet at each joint with fertile florets 6. .*^. minus.

tt Both spikelets Ijearing fertile florets.

i Sheaths and dorsal surface of leaves glabrous; glaucous.

(t Low alpine plants 7. -S. rioidum,

h Krect, densely ctespitose 9. S^^labriim.

oEi-ect, slender; flowering glume half as long as its awn.

10. S. inanlare.

rfSlender; innovations very numerous 13. S. cdspiiosum.

9

10

tJ Leaves dorsally i»nl>o8ceiit or scabrous.

V\ Awn 2 to 3 times as long ns the flowering glniue. 11. S. cinereum.
H Awn iit It'ust 4 times .Is long as the flowering glume.

1. TunovatiouB very numerous; culms slender. 12. S.hystrix.

2. Innovations few ; culms robust.

(( Culm leaves 2-8 cm. long; flat, rigid, obtuse, divaricate.

8. S. caUfornieum,
/-Culm kaves 1-2.5 dm. long, flexuous; flowering glume

scabrous 15. S. atrifiosiim.

rCulm leaves short, rigid, ascending, 5-10 cm. long;
flowering glume smooth below, scabrous above.

14. N. montaniim,
</Culm leav«-s rigid; flowering glume glabrous.

16. S. moUe.
•"•* Empty glumes subulate-setaceous, entire; lowest floret hermaphrodite.

a Culm leaves very long, flexuous, filiform-involute 18. S. lo)igifoUum.

fcCulm leaves short, rigid, spreading, or horizontally divaricate.

1 Flowering glume 1 cm. long, glaucous; culms robust. 17. S. hrevifoUum.

2 Flowering glume 7 mm. long, soft pubescent; culms low.

• 19. S. pubitforum.

**** Empty glumes lanceolate, 2-5-nerved, entire or lobed.
t Lowest floret longer than the internodcs of the rachis.

t Leaves flat, glaucous, more strongly nerved on the back than above, 5-8

mm. wide 20, S. planifoliiim.

i t Leaves involute, more prominently nerved above than on the back, 2-3

mm. wide 21. jS. Janceolatum.

1 1 Internodes of the racliis longer than the lowest floret.

1 One si)ikelet at each node. 22. S. han>^nn.

2 Two spikclets at each node 2S. N. anomalum.

DESCRIPTION OV THE SPECIES,

^ Polyantherix. (Nees, as a genus.) Lowest flouieruxj f/liime of one or both spikeUts
Hterile, airnlilce; emptij (jliums deeply cleft into from .; to U or more setaceoux awnn.

1. SITANION JUBATUM J. G. Smith, sp. nov.

Culms stout, erect, or ascending, 6 to 9 dm. high, robust, terete, smooth. Nodes
glabrous. Lower sheaths hirsute, the upper ones minutely pubescent or when
young sparsely hirsute, becoming smooth, much exceeding the internodes, open
at the throat. Ligule cartilaginous, 1 mm. long. lUadc narrowly linear-lance-
olate, 10 to 18 cm. long, 3 to 5 nun. wide, rather rigid, Hat at the base, involute
toward the acuminate apex, strigose-puboscent throughout, sparsely hirsute
above and ou the ba(dc toward the base, iinely nerved above, with the midnerve
]in)minent beneath. Sjiike 1 to 2 dm. long, often nuirc than 1.5 dm. in diameter
to the tips of the spreading awns, densely flowered, exserted or the basal portion
inclosed in the uppermost leaf sheath. Empty glumes 4, 3- to mauy-parted from
about the middle, the lobes setaceous, IVom 1 to 10 cm. long. S])ikclets 2 at a
node, each 2- to 4-flowered, the lowest sterile, the second hermaphrodite, the
upitermost staminate or sterile. Flowering glunu' linear-lanceolate, acute, 8 to
1(1 mm. long, smooth and shining below, 5-nerved I'rom about the middle, sparsely
HcaliroMs above, trilid at the apex, the lateral lobes setaceous, the middle one
jirolonged into a slender, scabrous, subllexuous awn, 8 to 12 cm. long. Inter-
nodes of the ra<'liis 5 to 7 mm. long, compressed or plano-convex, spatulate,
g]:ibr<uis.

Type (oHcctcd by K'obert .M. Homer. No. 57:^, Waitsburg, Wash.. May 27. 1897,
ilistribiited as " FAymuK ailanion Jiibaliim.'' Also collected by Iraiik \V. Hubby,
No. 48, among rocks, O.jai Valley, California, May 7. 189t>.

Bui. 18, Div. of Agrosiology.

Plate I.

(;//j//rfi

^:?t^'

277062 j

OtCTt.^^.^ T-id^t

'♦-9i Ht"^

T-ilCllon^-a^ ■>».

^ Jifj

UNITED tTATCt NATHWAL

lONAL HCRBARIUM.''^ Ig^

11. .^1*1. ISvTItt'll.lV T'

Tm.--'^ —

SiTANION VILLOSUM J. (;. Siiiitli Type

11

This grass is the largest aud most robust species of SifanioiK It belongs to the
S. mnltisetum group, dittering froui all other species iu the A-ery large spike and
exceptionally long awu of the flowering glume.

2. SIT ANION VILLOSUM .1. G. Smith, sp. nov. PI. I.

Culms stout, erect, or slightly geniculate, 2 to 3 dm. high, densely leafy at the base,
forming close, matted tufts. Sheaths rather densely hirsute, the lower strict,
the uppermost somewhat inflated, scabrous. Ligule almost obsolete. Blades
short, rigid, ascending or divaricate, flnely strigose-pubescent aud more or less
densely hirsute, scabrous along the cartilaginous margin.s, linear-lanceolate,
acuminate, puugently-pointed, 4 to 8 cm. long, about 3 mm. wide, flat, or at
length involute. Spike G to 8 cm. long, subflexuous, its base inclosed in the
greatly elongated uppermost leaf-sheath. Empty glume 3- to 7- or 8-parted
from near the base, each lobe a very slender, scabrous, divaricate awn from 2.5
to 8 cm. long. Lowest floret usually sterile, its glume many-parted, like the
empty glumes. Perfect florets 1 or 2. Flowering glume about 8 mm. long,
obli(iuely lanceolate, smooth and shining at the base, scabrous for the upper
two-thirds, 3-awued, the middle awn rather stout, divergent, 8 to 10 cm. long,
the lateral ones very slender, 5 to 10 ram. long Palca as long as the flowering
glume, obtuse, acute, or with two short, slender awns at the apex. Internodes
of the rachis 4 to 5 mui. long, linear-compressed, glabrous.

Type collected by A. D. E, Elmer, No. 266, on rocky hilltops, Almota, Whitman
County, Wash., June 13, 1896; also collected by C. V. Piper, Xo. 2.598, on dry,
gravelly prairies, Spokane, June 2.5, 1897; aud Hobert M. Horner, No. 574,
Waitsburg, Wash., June 3, 1897.

This species may be separated from Sitanion pohjantherlx, to which it is closely
related, by the short, rigid, hirsute basal culm leaves.

3. SITANION MULTISETUM J. G. Smith, sp. nov.

Culms 3 to 5 dm. high, terete, striate, glabrous or .minutely strigose-pubescent, erect
or slightly geniculate, much branched from the very base. Sheaths rather loose,
open at the throat, scarious along the margins above, strigose-pubescent and
hirsute on the back, mostly longer than the internodes. Ligule very short,
membranaceous. Blades 5 to 10 cm. long, rigid, erect or ascending, linear, acute
and puugently pointed, flat, becoming involute, sparsely hirsute on the back,
scabrous on the margins, hirsute and scabrous along the prominent nerves above.
Spike erect, 5 to 8 cm. long. Spikelets two at each node but usually only one
bearing perfect florets. Empty glumes many-parted nearly to the base, the
slender, ascending, scabrous awns varying from 1 to 5 or rarely 8 cm. long.
Lowest flowering glume of the sterile spikelet subulate, resembling the segments
of the empty glumes, but somewhat lanceolate at the base. Flowering glume
of the fertile spikelet about 8 or 9 mm. long, linear-lanceolate, rounded on the
back, smooth aud shining below, keeled and scabrous above, 3-awned, the middle
awn stout, rigid, scabrous, 5 to 6 cm. long, the lateral ones slender, 3 to 8 mm,
long. Palea as long as the flowering glume, acute or bicuspidate. Internodes
of the rachis compressed, spatulate above, smooth and shining, scabrous along
the margins, 4 to 5 mm. long.

Type specimen collected by Coville and Funston. Xo. 1121, Tehachapi Valley, Kern
County, Cal., June 25, 1891. Other specimens which may be referred to this are
Samuels, No. 225, Sonoma County, Cal. ; a specimen collected by Bolander at San
Francisco without date or number ; Dr. Palmer, No. 2422, Petaluma, 1892 ; Hansen,
No. 617, Clinton, Amador County, June 30, 1893 ; a specimen marked "J. A. Allen,
California ; " and L. Schoenefeldt, No. 3439, Nachoguero Valley, Lower California,
June 14, 1894.
It diff"ers from SUaiiion pohjanlherix and .?. hreviaristatnm iu the very much longer and
more rigid, erect or ascending awns of the empty glumes, and the leaves hirsute
dorsally toward the base and along the nerves above.

12

4. SITANION POLYANTHERIX J. (i. Smith, new name. Puli/autherii- In/atrix

Nces. ill Ann. Nat. Hist. 1: L'SI (1S38), uot Ju/ilops hiff<lrix Nutt.

Culms 3 to 4 «lm. high, terete, striate, miuutely striji^ose-pnbesceiit. Sheatbs striate,
scabrous, closely enveloping the internotlo.s and longer than them, hirsute.
I-ignle very short, membranaioous. Jilailes G to "Jo cm. long, linear, long-atteuuato
or liliform, involute, acuminate, t!ie lower hirsute ou the back, the upper smooth,
scabrous and sparsely hirsute on the nerves above. Spike 7 to 10 cm. long, rather
rigid and densely llowered. Spikelets 2 at each node; all the florets of one of
the spikelets sterile and the lowest and uppermost florets of the other either
stamiuate or sterile, only the second producing seed. Empty glumes 5- to many-
parted from near the base, the seguients extending into slender, abruptly divari-
cate awns, 6 to 25 mm. long. Flowering glume of the hermaphrodite floret
linear-lancecdate, acute, smooth and shining for its lower two-thirds, slightly
scabrous above, with a rigid, scabrous awn 2.5 to 3 cm. long arising from between
two minute teeth. Palea a little longer than the flowering glume, acute. Inter-
nodes of the rachi.s very short, smooth and sliiniug, compressed, broadest above,
about 3 iiiiii. long.

Tyi>e collected by Douglas, in (alil'ornia. There is a sijecimen iu the National Hcrl)a-
riuni, labeled Silairioti pohjantlierix, which was collected by Dr. J. M. Bigelow,
surgeon and botanist to Lieut. A. W. Whipple's expedition for a railway route
from the Mississippi Kiver to the Pacilic Ocean, near the thirty-flfth parallel
of latitude in 18"3-54, California, without locality, and it is from this plant that
the above description is drawn.

This species may be separated from S. hreviarintatum, to which it is related, by the
very long-attenuate, filiform leaves, and taller and more slender cnlms.

5. .SITANION BREVIARISTATUM .T. (i. Smith, sp. nov.

Lo\v , c;is])iti>sf pcremiial, with slender, erect spikes and very loug, rigid, erect or
ascending leaves. Culms about 2 dm. high, erect, clothed with dead leaf-sheaths
at the base. Sheaths smooth, closely envelopingandlonger than the iuternodes,
scarious along tlie margins. Ligule nearly obsolete. Blades 5 to 15 cm. long,
linear, rigid, pungently pointed, densely strigose pubescent on both surfaces,
closely involute. Spike slender, rigid, 3 to G cm. long. Empty glumes 2-1o
many-parted, bearing scabrous, flexuous, divergent awns, from 7 to 20 mm. long.
Flowering glume about (> mm. long, narrowly lanceolate, smooth below, scabrous
above, tij)ped with a short, rigid awn from 1 to 1.5 cm. long. I'alea as long ;is
the llowering glume, acute, 2-nerved, scarious along the margins, bicuspidate.
Grain adherent to the ])alea, elli]»tical, oblanceolate, 5 mm. long, compressed,
acute at the base, rounded at the apex. Iuternodes of the rachis coujpresscd,
4 to 5 mm. long. si)atulate above, glaucous.

Tyjie si»eciiuen collected by Coville and Funston, No. 833, AVillow Cr.-ck Canyon,
I'anamiut Mountains, Californi.i, May 22, 1S91.

This species di Hers froui Siluiiion iiiiiltixeliim towjiich it i.s related, iu the low, densely
ca^spitose habit; sliorl, slender s])ikes; aiul very short awns of the empty and
tli.wering glumes. The ba.ses of the eulms ;ue clothed with papery leaf-sheaths.

^ij> Eusitaiiioii. Loinat tloni of „iu or holh sj,ih,lel.s gtrrih and like the vinphj fjliimoi;
xomi I,/ thr ciiipli/ (jinnies Injiil from ahoiil Ike viiddlc, llir dirinioiis direriient: ihe
oiliet'H entire, mthiilale-aetacroiis.

fi. SITANION MINUS .1. (1. Smith, sj). nov.

Culms 1.5 to 2 dm. iiigh, slender, rigid, erect, terete, glabrous. Noiles glabrous.
Culm leaves 5. .Sheaths ;;iabrous. closely enveloping and longer than the inter-
nod. h. I.igule :ilmo>t obs(di-te. lilades 5 to 7 cui., those of the innovations 8 to
12 (Ml. long, rigid, erect or somewhat di\ arieate, linear, acuminate, involute,
Hnu)olli and gl.ibrousim the back, scabrous on the margins, strigose-pubeseent on
III., ii.ivs above. Spikes 3 to 5 cm. buig, sletidir, their bases included in the

13

upper leaf sheaths, closely-flowered. Empty glumes 4, subulate or one of the
lateral ones often lanceolate and 2-uerved, bifid from above the middle, scabrous,
25 to 32 mm. long. Spikelets 2-liowered, both florets of one of them sterile,
reduced to subulate awns. Lower floret of the other hermaphrodite, the flower-
ing glume 5 mm. long, lanceolate, strongly nervctl and scabrous above the
middle, smooth below, entire, tii»ped by a slender scaltrous, subflexuous awn
about 3 cm. long. Palea as long as the flowering glume, bicuspidate. Second
floret rudimentary, awned. luternodes of the rachis 2 to 3 mm. long, siiatulate,
glabrous.

Type collected by L. Schoenefeldt, No. 3277, International Boundary Commission,
Jacumba Hot Springs, near monument 23.3, altitude 900 m., May 24, 1894.

Related to Sitanion multisetum.

7. StTANION RIGIDUM ,J. G. Smith, sp. nov.

Culms 1 to 2 dm. high, terete, striate. Nodes glabrous. Sheaths longer than the
internodes, smooth and glaucous, or the lower ones hirsute, open at the throat.
Ligule cartilaginous, 1 ram. long. Blades 3 to 8 cm. long, 2 to 3 mm. wide, rigid,
involute, smooth and glaucous on the back, obtuse or acute at the apex, scab-
rous along the margins aud nerves above. Spike 2 to 8 cm. long, ascending,
exserted its own length, or the base included in the uppermost leaf-sheath;
empty glumes 4 and entire, or 6 (/. e., the two lateral ones at each node divided
to the very base) awned, strongly divaricate, 2 to 3 cm. long. Lowest floret
sometimes sterile, like the empty glumes. Spikelets few-flowered. Flowering
glume 7 to 9 mm. long, linear-lanceolate, tritid, smooth and glaucous below,
scabrous above, tipped with a stout, divergent awn 3 to 4 mm. long. Internodes
of the rachis 3 to 4 mm. long, compressed, scabrous on the margins.

Type collected by O. D. Allen, No. 178, Cascade Mountains, Washington, 1896. Other
specimens examined are Elmer, No. 1145, Washington, 1898; and G. K. Vasey,
Washington, 1889; H. E. Brown, No. 372, north side of Mount Shasta, California,
1897; R.M.Horner, No. 579, Blue Mountains, Washington, July 29, 1897; A. Nel-
son, No. 1021, Union Pass, Wyoming, August 13, 1895; J. N. Rose, No. 271, Timber
Reserve, northwest Wyoming, August 28, 1893; Frank Tweedy, No. 79, Teton
Forest Reserve, Wyoming, July, 1897; aud S.Watson, No. 1337, E. Humboldt
Mountains, Nevada, August, 1868.

This grass is related to S. glahntm, diftering in the dwarf habit of growth and rigid
glaucous leaves.

8. SITANION CALIFORNICUM J. G. Smith, sp. nov.

Culms low, ascending, 1.5 to 2.5 dm. high, terete, striate, densely pubescent above,
geniculate at the nodes. Sheaths longer than the internodes, the lower ones
densely hirsute, the upper minutely puberulent, the uppermost many times
longer than the blade. Ligule obsolete. Blade 2 to 8 cm. long, 3 to 4 mm. wide,
rigid, divaricate or ascending, prominently striate, linear-lanceolate, abruptly
contracted at the base, attenuate toward tlie obtuse or subacute apex, scabrous
above and on the margins, densely puberulent on the back. Spike subflexuouS,
erect or ascending, loosely few-flowered, 5 to 8 cm. long, barely exserted or the
base inclosed in the uppermost leaf-sheaths. Lowest floret of one of each pair
of spikelets sterile. Empty glumes 4, entire, subulate-setaceous, divaricate, 3
to 5 cm. long. Flowering glume linear, acute, abruptly rounded at the base, 10
to 12 mm. long, finely scabrous, terminating in a stout, divaricate, scabrous
awn about 4 cm. long, arising from between two minute lateral seta-. Palea 2
mm. shorter than the flowering glume, truncate or obtuse, scabrous on the
nerves above. luternodes of the rachis compressed, 4 to 5 mm. long, scabrous
throughout.

Type collected by S. B. Parish, No. 3295, San Bernardino Mountains, California, alti-
tude 2,1.50 m., June 23, 1894. Closely related to S. rUfidum, but with leaves
pubescent throughout and longer flowering glumes.

14

9. SITANTQN GLABRUM J. G. Smith, sp. nov.

Culms oreot, terete, smooth and shiuing, glaucous. Sheaths glaucous, glabrous,
rather closely eiivclojiing and shorter than the interuodes, scarlous aloug the
margins, open at the throat. Lignle nienibranaceons, almost obsolete. Blades
7 to 15 cm. long, 2 to 5 mm. wide, broadly linear, acute, flat becoming involute,
smooth and glabrous on the back, scabrous-pubescent along the nerves above.
Spike 5 to 8 cm. long, slender, subtlexuous. its base inclosed in the swollen
uppermost sheath. Empty glumes bifid from the very base, the lobes subulate,
setaceous, G to 8 cm. long, subflexuous, slender, divaricate. Flowering glume 7
to 8 nmi. long, rounded on the back, smooth and shining for its lower two-thirds,
linear-lanceolate, acute, entire or minutely bifid at the apex, tipped with a
slender, rigid, setaceous awn 4 to 5 cm. long. Palea as long as the flowering
glume, bidentate, scabrous on the nerves above. Interuodes of the rachis
obcuneate, compressed, about 3 mm. long.

Type collected by Coville and Funston, No. 914, near Crystal Spring, C'oso Mountains,
Calitbruia, June 12, 1891. Also collected by J. A. Allen, California, without date
or locality. Xo. 821, Hall, San .Jacinto Mountains, may be i)laced here ; and also
I'urpus, No. 5289, Pah Mountains, 1897. The latter has the habit of typical
.S. (jlahrum, but the leaves and sheaths are minutely soft pubescent and the spike-
lets and empty glumes purplish. Otherspecimens examinedare: L. Schoenefeldt,
No. 3ti09, Laguna, Cal., .June 14, 1894 ; and C. V. Piper, No. 1952, dry slopes Mount
h'ainier, Wash. 2,100 ni., August. 1895.

10. SITANION INSULARE J. G, Smith, sp. nov.

Culms slender, erect, terete, glabrous. Nodes glabrous. Culm leaves 4 or 5. Sheaths
glabrous, closely enveloping the culm, open at the throat, shorter than the inter-
nodes. Ligule almost obsi>lete. Blades linear, 1 to 1.5 dm. long, glabrous on
the back, strongly nerved and strigose-pubescent on the nerves above, scabrous
along the margins. Spike slender, 5 to 8 cm. long. Empty glumes lanceolate,
bifid and 2-awued, 4 to ."> mm. long, 2 nun. wide, tipped with divergent, slender,
scabrous awns, 10 to 20 mm. long. Flowering glume 8 mm. long, linear-lanceo-
late, smooth and shining, glabrous for the lower two-thirds, rounded on the
back below, keeled above, 3-toothed, the middle nerve extending into a stout,
scabrous, divaricate awn about 15 mm. long; lateral teeth 1 to 2 mm. long.
I'alea as long as the flowering glume, 2-toothed at the apex. Interuodes of the
rachis linear, dilated above, sharply 2-edged, scabrous on the margins, 7 to 10
mm. long.

Type lollected by Sereno Watson, No. 1338, Carrington Island, Salt Lake, Utah,
.June, 1869.

This species is quite distinct from any other in the National Herbarium. It has the
broad empty glumes of Klj/iinis, but two-})arted, as in Kiisilatiioii, with divaricate
aw lis. Tlie emi>ty glumes are inserted as in Siianio)i. while the form of the
spikelets and the habitat of the inflorescence resembles some species of J </ro/ji/ron.
As in the other SHanioit species the rachis breaks u]) into segments at maturity.

11. SITANION CINEREUM .1. G. Smith, sp. nov.

Slendtr, :iseen<ling, lealV iterennial. 2 to 3 dm. high, the entire plant ashy-gray with
a close, dense pubescence. Innovations as long as the culms. Culms slender,
terete, jmbescent. Nodes glabrous. Shejiths closely enveloping the iuternodes
and shorter than them, densely ciliate-pubescent. Ligule almost obsolete.
Blades linear, rigid, involute, the ui)])erniost 5 to 7, the lower 15 to 20 cm. long,
densely strigose-pubescent on the nerves above, 8oft-pubes(;ent or hirsute below.
S])ike slender, 4 to 5 em. long. ICmpty glumes very scabrous, bifid, 2-awned,
the strongly divergent scabrous awns 2 to 3 em. long. Flowering glumes 7 to 8
nun. long, roundi'd on tlie back, scabrous throughout, 3-nerved toward the apex,
3-awned, the lateral awns very slender, 2 to 4 mm. long, the middle one stout,

Bui. 18. Oiv. of Agrostology.

Plate II.

i^M HJL

•/<^/«l^-»«.^av

^"^^ -V-

I

4

tuiiii M utitu MiKB. riiiiiurot

iit

r

SiTANION HYSTRIX iNiitl i .T. C Smith.
1'li..i -t ,|,ii uf Nnlljill's ty|M- ill Dm- Ilcihariimi <il' ilw I'hll.iili'l|iliiii .Vca.lcmy of Science.

15

divaricate, 2 to S cm. long. Palea as long as the tioweriug giiiaie, tipped with
two slender scabrous awns. Internodes of the rachis scabrous along the mar-
gins; 2 to 4 mm. long.
Type collected by S. M. Tracy, Xo. 222, Reno. Nev., 1887.

It differs from any other specimen in the National Herbarium in being densely gray-
ish-pubescent throughout. In the character of the spikelets it approaches S.
hystrlx. No. 127, Suksdorf, Bickleton, Yakima County, Wash., June 7, 1884,
with similar leaves and inflorescences, but the plant less densely pubescent and
quite glaucous, may be placed here. Also a specimen collected by Dr. C. H.
Merriam on Mount Shasta, California, 1898.
12. SITANION HYSTRIX (Nntt.) J. G. Smith, new combination. {JEgilops Injslrix

Nutt. Gen. N. Am. PI., 1: 86, 1818.) PL II.
Culms 1 to 3 dm. high, slender, erect or ascending, scabrous above, clothed at the
base with papery leaf-sheaths. Innovations very leafy, one third to two-thirds
the length of the culms. Sheaths striate, strigose-pubesceut, o\>en at the throat,
closely enveloping the internodes. Ligule almost obsolete. Blades narrowly
linear, flat or at length involute, strigose-pubescent throughout, prominently
9-nerved, scabrous along the margins, erect or ascending; those of the innova-
tions 7 to 12 cm. long, 1 to 2 mm. wide ; culm leaves about as long, 2 to 4 mm.
wide. Spike 5 to 7 cm. long, erect or subflexuous, exserted, or its basal portion
inclosed in the uppermost leaf-sheath, closely flowered. Spikelets 3- to 4-flow-
ered, compressed. Empty glumes bifid, from near the base and unequally
2-awued; the strongly scabrous, glaucous, divergent awns, 3 to 4 cm. long.
Flowering glume 7 to 8 mm. long, liuear-lancedlate, minutely pubescent, 3-awued,
the middle awn rather slender, recurved, about 3 cm. long. Palea as long as or
longer than the flowering glume, scabrous, tipped with two slender awns, 2 to
3 mm. long. Internodes of the rachis glaucous, linear, not at all dilated above,
about 5 mm. long.
A common, worthless bunch grass on shale hills and among the sagebrush on the

high plains from western Colorado to eastern Washington.
Specimens examined: JFyomin;/ : P. A. Rydberg, No. 2028, Wamsutter, July 24,
189.5; C. L. Shear, No. 280i, Wamsutter, June 24, 189.5; No. 283, Green River,
June 25, 1895; Thomas A. Williams, No. 2437, dry rocky hillsides; Evanston,
July 10, 1897; No. 2379, dry sagebrush hills. Green River, July 9, 1897; Aven
Nelson, No. 3058, Green River Hills, May 31, 1897; No. 3669, Wamsutter, July
10, 1897; No. 3784, North Vermilion Creek, July 20, 1897.
Washington: C. V. Piper, No. 2579, on sagebrush land, Ellensburg, July 9, 1897. A. B.

Leckenby, Walla Walla, July 12, 1898.
Colorado: John Wolfe, No. 623, 1873 ; C. Thomas, 1869 ; and F. E. Clements, No. 60, Wal-

senburg, July 10, 1896.
There are in the herbarium of the Philadelphia Academy of Science two of Nuttall's
specimens of SUanion. One of these, labeled " Chretomeris trichoides, R. Mts.
Platte," is exactly identical with No. 3784, A. Nelson, and No. 283, C. L. Shear,
both collected in the Red Desert of Wyoming. The other, labeled "Elijmus
difformi.% R. Mts. Platte," is nearly identical with No. 2028, Rydberg, from Wam-
sutter, Wyo. If these specimens are those from which Nuttall's description of
JEgilops hyatrix was drawn, and they agree lietter with liis description than any
specimen from the "arid plains of the Missouri "so far examined, then there was
undoubtedly a mistake made iu referring the habitat of this to that locality.
I am assured by Dr. E. L. Greene that it is highly improbable that Rafiuesque drew
his description of S. ehjmoides from Nuttall's plant, and it is certain that Rafln-
esque's description (Jouru. Phys. 89 : 1819) differs in important particulars from
that of J'lgUops hjistrix, Nuttall. I am, however, unable definitely to identify any
SUanion with which I am familiar as the true S. elymoides, Raf. The locality,
"Missouri," of 1819, was then applied to what now constitutes several largo

16

Siat< s in wliicli a dozeu or iiioro separatt* spt-cies occur. I?atiiies(|ne apparently
li fi no type, and the original description is too fragmentary to enable one to
more than jiues8 at the identity of the plant which he described.

13. SITANION CiEsPITOSUM J. G. Smith, sp. no\ .

Densely ca-spitose, with flat leaves, and weak, ascending culms. Sterile shouts
viry leafy, erect «)r spreading, 1 to 2 dm. long. C'nlms 2 to 3 dm. high, very
.-linder. terete, glabrons. Nodes glabrons. Sheaths striate, open at the throat,
smooth and glabrons. Ligule membranaceons, entire, very short. Blades 4 to
10 em. long, 2 to 3 mm. wide, linear, flat, or the margins incnrved, prominently
Tiierved above, glabrons on the back, scabrous above. .Spike 4 to (J em. long,
its base sometimes inclosed in the uppermost sheath, mostly exserted, somewhat
flexiions. Kmpty glumes entire or bitid, 3 to 4 cm. long, divaricate, scabrous.
Flowering glume of the lowest fertile floret linear-lanceolate, entire, smooth and
shining below, sparsely scabrous above the middle, about 7 mm. long, tipped
with a flexuous scabrous awn, about 5 mm. long. Callus rounded, glabrous.
I'alea as long as the flowering glume, ronmled at the apex. .Joints of the rachis
glabrous, except along the margins, not at all dilated above, two-thirds the
length of the lowest floret.

Growing in rich soil in the canyons around Silver City, N. Mex.

Type spe<iraens collected by .hired G. Smitii, near Clifl', N. Mex., August 19, 1897.
Also eollecte<l at the same locality in August, 1896. It grows only in shaded
canyons, and on moist talus slopes in the mountains at an altitude of about
2.rt(»()ui. Its leaves continue green during the winter. It is one of the "mutton
grasses." formerly abundant and highly valued as forage for sheep and cattle,
now to be found only in protected situations. Probably also occurring in the
mountains of western Texas, althr>Mgh there are no speeiniens from any otlier
locality than the typical one in the National Herbarium.

Closely related to 5. hyntrix (Nutt.) JGS., but the sheaths ami Idade.s are glabrous
on the back.

14. SITANION MONTANUM .J. G. Smith, sp. nov.

Culms rather st<mt, erect, 2 to 4 dm. high, terete, striate, glabrons below, scabrous
above. Sheaths rather loose, open at the throat, as long as, or longer than, the
internodes, smooth, s( abroiis or pubescent. Hlades .") to 10 cm. long, 3 to 4 mm.
wide, linear, acuminate, flat or involute, pubescent on the back, scabrous or
strigose-pubesceiit on the prominent nerves above, scabrous ahmg thi- margins,
rigid, erect or ascending, the uppermost usually shorter than the sjjike. Spike
erect, loosely flowered, 5 to 10 cm. long. Empty glumes subulate, scabrous, long-
awned, some of tho.se in the lower part of the spike unequally bifid, the lobes
extending into scabrous, divergent awns .o to 6 cm. long, 2 or often 3 spikelets
at each node. Lowest floret sterile. Flowering glumes 10 to 11 mm. long,
linear-lanceolate, rounded on the back, smooth and shining for the lower thi.d,
Hc.ibrous above jiiid on the margins, tiilid, tiiree-awned, the scabrous, diverg< "^t
middle awn I lo 7 em. long, the lateral awns very short, slender. I'alea as long
IIS the flowering glume, with tsvo short, .setace«)U8, scabrous awns, or sometini' ^
rather obtuHC and muticons. Internodes of the rachis linear or dilated above,
compre^se<l, glaucous, 4 to (i mm. long.

S. monlaniitii diflers from S. Htrii/oxiim in the shorter, flat, and more rigid erect leaves
and smoother flowering glume. This may be Kaliue8<|iie's .S". tlnmoides.

Northern Wyoming .ind Montana to « >regon. Si'K( IMKXS r.x.\Mi.\Ki> : Montana: F.
l.amson-Seribner, No. 137. gravelly bottoms, Indian (reek, July 4, 1883; rather
d«in»ely ciiicrcon8-])ubescent throughout. \\ A. Rydberg, No. :i091 (type), Span-
ish (reek, .Inly l."i. IK'KJ; and No. 3133, .•Spanish Hasin, July 18. 189«. Thomas A.
WilliaiMH, No. 2002, Spanish Creek Hasin, .Inly 16, ISiKi, on sterile, rocky soil.

WtjomuKi : 'Ih(Hn!iH A. Williams, No. 2776, Hull Camp, August 2. 1897: and No. 2."»96,
Ten 81ee)( Lakes, liig Horn Mountains, August 19, 1897.

fit.

Bui. '8, Div. of Ag'osto ogy.

Plate III.

>

un'AKTMrJTO*' ».mi. I t.Ti-lir.

SiTANION BREVIFOLIUM J. G. Sinilli. Tvpical

17

Idaho: B. W. Everman, Xo. 319, shores of Petit Lake, August 13, 1895,

Oregon: A fragmeutary speciiuen collected by the U. S. South Pacific Exploring

Expedition, under the command of Captain Wilkes, 1838-1842, is doubtfully

referred here.

15. SITANION STRIGOSUM J. G. Smith, sp. nov.

Culms stout, erect, 3 to 6 dm. high, terete, striate, glabrous, the uppermost inter-
nodes minutely pubescent. Xodea brownish, glabrous. Sheaths open at the
throat, loose, striate, scarious along the margins above, more or less densely
pubescent, as long as or longer than the internodes. Ligule nearly obsolete.
Blades 1 to 2.3 dm. long, 3 to 6 mm. wide, linear to linear-lanceolate, flat or the
lower ones involute, rounded at the base, long-acurainate pointed, strongly
nerved, strigose-pubesceut throughout, sparsely hirsute along the nerves, sca-
brous on the cartilaginous margins. Spike stout, ^erect, exserted, 8 to 12 cm.
long. Empty glumes with the awn 5 to 6 cm. long, entire or bifid, scabrous, long-
awned, divaricate. Flowering glumes 8 to 10 mm. long, lanceolate, rounded on
the back, scabrous and glaucous, strongly 3-nerved above, the middle awn stout,
recurved, scabrous, 5 to 7 cm. long, the lateral ones 1 to 2 mm. long. Palea
nearly as long as the flowering glume; bifid, with two short awns, ciliate along
the nerves above.

Type collected by P. A. Eydberg, No. 3298, Sheep Creek, Montana, August 8, 1896.
Also collected by Charles A. Geyer, June 10, 1839, " in heavy ferruginous loam,
Missouri, James and Shienne River valleys," probably at the eastern border of
the Bad Lauds, above Mandan, N. Dak.

S. atrigosum difters from S. montanum in the very long, less rigid, more strongly
nerved culm leaves, the uppermost nearly as long as or much exceeding the
spike, those of the innovations half the length of the culm. The flowering
glumes are more scabrous and shorter. This may be Rafinesque's S. elymoides.

16. SITANION MOLLE J. G. Smith, sp. nov.

Culms stout, erect, rigid, 3 to 4 dm. high, clothed at the base with dead leaf-sheaths,
terete, striate, pubescent. Innovations about half as long as the culm. Nodes
glabrous. Sheaths rather loose, open at the throat, longer than the internodes,
pubescent, the lower ones sparsely hirsute along the nerves, the upper puberu-
lent and scabrous on the nerves. Ligule entire, almost obsolete. Blades rigid,
erect or ascending, linear, long-acuminate pointed, 8 to 15 cm. long, 3 to 5 mm.
wide, the uppermost longer than the spike, soft-pubescent throughout, scab-
rous along the cartilaginous margins, on the nerves above and along the mid-
rib beneath. Spike 7 to 8 cm. long, erect, loosely flowered, shortly exserted.
Empty glumes 4, entire or unequally bifid, subulate-setaceous, 6 to 7.5 cm. long,
scabrous, divaricate. Lowest floret of one of the spikelets sterile and like the
empty glumes. Flowering glume of the lowest hermaphrodite floret linear-
lanceolate, acute, 1 cm. long, smooth and shining, glaucous, trifid, or entire,
tipped with a stout, spreading, scabrous awn 5 to 7 cm. loug. Palea as long as
the flowering glume, acute, or bicuspidate scabrous along the nerves.

Type collected by Shear and Bessey, No. 1469, East Side Buff'alo Pass, Larimer
County, Colo., moist, open mountain side, 3,200 m. August 14, 1898.

S. molle is related to S. montanum. It differs in being finely pubescent throughout.
The leaves are longer and less strougly nerved.

$$^ Hordeiformae. Lowest floret hermaphrodite . Empty glumes 4, entire.

17. SITANION BREVIFOLIUM J. G. Smith, sp. nov. PI. III.

Culms 3 to 6 dm. high, terete, stout, erect, obscurely striate, glaucous. Innovations
less than half the length of the culms. Nodes glabrous. Sheaths smooth,
scarious along the margins, glaucous, longer than the internodes, the uppermost
much elongated, the lower sometimes pubescent or hirsute. Ligule almost

20775— No. 18 2

18

obsolete. Blades 5 to 10 or rarely 12 cm. loug, 3 to 4 mm. wide, linear, acumi-
nate, flat or involute, rigid, divergent or ascending, smootli and glaucous on
the hack, scabrous-pubescent along the prominent nerves above. Spike 7 to 15
cm. long, loosely few-llowered, long-exserted. Empty glumes stout, setaceous,
divergent, 5 to 9 cm. long, smooth and shining and often glaucous at the base,
scabrous above. Flowering glumes 8 to 10 mm. long, linear-lanceolate, glau-
cous, scabrous throughout, rounded on the back below, nerved above, entire,
tipped with a stout, scabrous, spreading awn 4 to 8 cm. long. Palea as loug as
the flowering glume, scabrous on the margins above, obtuse. .Joints of the
rachis compressed, glaucous, 5 to 10 mm. long, linear. Closely related to S.
longifoUitm, but the culm leaves shorter and more rigid and the innovations less
than half as long as the culms.

Type collected by J. W. Toumey, No. 797, Tucson, Ariz., 1892.

Specimens kxamined, Colorado: Tracy, Earle & Baker, No. 4274, Hamora Lake,
July 24, 1898; No. 429, Mancas, July 8, 1898; No. 4272, Durango, July 18, 1898.
C. L. Shear, No. 1087, Breckeuridge, August 29, 1896; No. 1070, Dillon, August
26, 1896; No. 612, Georgetown, August 17, 1896; No. 997, Westcliffe, August 12,
1896; No. 912, Marshall Pass, July 27, 1896; No. 1003, Buena Vista, August 15,
1896; No. 814 and 833, Veta Pass, July 13, 1896; No. 1096, Como, September 1,
1896; No. 1240, Animas Canyon, August 5, 1897. P. A. Eydberg, No. 2414,
Georgetown, August 20, 1895 ; No. 2.509, Boulder, September 3, 1895. Shear &
Bessey, No. 1407, Egeria Park, August 4, 1898. Patterson, Georgetown, 1875.

Wyoming : Thomas A. Williams, No. 2573a, Iron Mountain, July 2, 1897, and No.
2621, Bear Lodge, July 23, 1897; A. Nelson, No. 3952, Albany County, August
9, 1897.

Utah: Marcus E. Jones, No. 56636d, Marvine Laceolite, July 23, 1894; No. 568466,
Mount Ellen, Henry Mountains, July 25, 1894, and 5770^), Fish Lake, August 7,
1894.

18. SITANION LONGIPOLIUM J. G. Smith, sp. nov.

Culms 3 to 5 dm. high, stout, ascending, somewhat geniculate at the base, glaucous.
Leaves of the innovations 1.5 to 3 dm. long, attenuate, involute, often as long
as the culms. Nodes glabrous. Sheaths scabrous and glaucous, or more or less
strigose-pubescent, or sparselj^ hirsute, longer than the internodes, loose, open
at the throat, scarious along the margins above. Ligule entire, almost obsolete.
Blades linear, long, attenuate, acuminate, striate, smooth and glaucous or pubes-
cent, or sparsely hirsute on tlie back, 1 to 2 dm. long, 1 to 3 or 4 mm. wide.
Spike Hubflexuous or somewhat nodding, 1 to 1.3 dm. long, rather loosely flow-
ered, its base inclosed in the inflated uppermost leaf-sheath. Spikelets 2 or
rarely 3 at each node. Empty glumes subulate setaceous, divaricate, scabrous,
6 to 8 cm. long. Flowering glumes 8 to 11 mm. long, scabrous, glaucous,
rounded on the back below, keeled above, entire or minutely trifid, tipped with
a stout, scabrous divaricate awn 5 to 6.5 cm. long. Palea as long as the flower-
ing glume, obtuse or bicuspidate, scabrous on the nerves above. Internodes of
the rachis compressed, glaucous, 6 to 8 nmi. long. Closely related to ^S. hrevi-
folium, from which it may be distinguished by the long attenuate flexuous leaves
of the culms and innovations and by the subflexuous spikes, inclosed at the
base in the uppermost leaf-sheaths.

Type collected by C. L. Shear, No. 1213, near Silverton, Colo., August 4, 1897, among
rocks on the open sides of a canyon, altitude 3,000 m.

Specimens examined, Colorado: J.Wolfe, No. 1161-2-3, Denver, 1878. C. L. Shear,
No. 1152 and No. 11.58, Ouray, .July 4, 1897; No. 886, Villa CJrove, July 24, 1897;
No. 836, Veta Pass, July 15, 1896; No. 717, Idaho Springs, August 27, 1895. M. E.
Jones, No. .531, Idaho Si)ring8, August 1, 1878. Tracy, Karle .V Baker, No. 4275,
Chicken Creek, .July (I, 1898. P. A. Rydl)erg. No. 21lt7, Idaho Springs, August
28, 1895.

Kansan: C. H. Thompson, No. 21, Ulysses, June 26, 1893.

19

Wyoming: D. Griffiths, Nos. 493 and 500, Sundance, August 10, 1897; No. 576, Little

Missouri Buttes, August 15, 1897; Xo. 669, Inyankara Mountain, August 23, 1897;

A. Nelson, No. 1602, Laramie Peak, August 6, 1895.
Nevada : Shockley, without date or locality.
Arizona: Dr. Palmer, No. 534, 1876. G. C. Nealley, No. 171, Rincon Mountains,

August, 1891.
Neiv Mexico: C. Wright, No. 2076, in part, 1851-52. E. O. Wooten, No. 322, White

Mountains, August 12, 1897.
Texas: J. Reverchon, Upper Concho River fCurtiss, No. 3536).

19. SIT ANION PUBIFLORUM J. G. Smith, sp. nov.

Low, c-espitose perennial, with stout, rigid, erect culms, 2 to 3 dm. high, and tufted,
erect, rigid innovations, 1 to 1.5 dm. long. Culms terete, strigose-pubesceut above.
Culm leaves 3 to 5. Nodes glabrous, glaucous. Sheaths about as long as, or
longer than, the internodes, open at the throat, not at all inflated, glabrous.
Ligule obsolete. Blades puberulent on the back, rigid, linear-involute, pungently-
pointed, scabrous above, the lowest 10 cm., the uppermost 1.5 to 4 cm. long and
horizontally spreading or divaricate. Spike exserted, erect, about 5 cm. long.
Empty glumes setaceous, divaricate, 4 to 6 cm. long, scabrous throughout, not at
all lobed or divided. Spikelets 2|-flowered, the uppermost floret rudimentary.
Flowering glume of the lowest floret 7 mm. long, linear-lanceolate, acute, with
a rouuded callus, scabrous and finely pubescent, tipped with a straight, erect,
scabrous awn, 5 to 6 cm. long. Palea rounded or entire at the apex, as long as
the flowering glume, scabrous along the margins. Joints of the rachis one-
half to two-thirds as long as the lowest floret, dilated above, scabrous.

Arizona, Neio Mexico, and southeastern Colorado : Type No. 795, J. W. Toumey, Tucson,
Ariz., 1892. Other specimens of this are No. 38, Toumey, south of Ashfork, Ariz.,
June 25, 1892 ; C. R. Orcutt, No. 2.533, Congress, Ariz., April 21, 1896. A specimen
from the Moqui country without data. A. A. & E. G. Heller, No. 3558, Santa Fe,
N. Mex., May 21, 1897. C. S. Crandall, No. 535, Trinidad. Colo., May 13, 1892.

This species is distinguished from S. Irevifolium by the rigid, convolute, erect, puberu-
lent leaves, densely tufted at the base of the low culms, erect spikes, and smaller
pubescent flowering glumes.

§vN§vvElynioides. Empty glumes lanceolate, 2-5-nerved, entire or lobed, lotvest Jlorei
hermaplirodite; spikelets 1 or 2 at a node, when 1, the empty glumes inclosing the spike-
let as in Elymas and Agropyron: rachis of the spike articulate at the nodes.

20. SITANION PLANIFOLIUM J. G. Smith, sp. nov.

Culms stout, erect, 5 to 6 dm. high, the lower internodes smooth and shining, glau-
cous, terete, the uppermost slightly striate, glabrous. Sheaths striate, glaucous,
open at the throat, loose. Ligule obsolete. Blades 8 to 15 cm. long, 5 to 8
mm. wide, flat, lanceolate, becoming involute toward the acuminate apex,
scabrous above, and along the cartilaginous margins, glabrous on the back,
more strongly nerved below than above. Spike erect or somewhat nodding,
6 to 9 cm. long, purplish, long-exserted. Spikelets subcylindrical, com-
pressed. Empty glumes 6 to 7 mm. long, lanceolate, strongly 1- to 3-nerved,
entire or bifid, glaucous at the base, strongly scabrous on the nerves above,
tipped with a slender, spreading, scabrous awn, about 2 cm. long. Flowering
glume 10 to 11 mm. long, lanceolate, flat or rounded on the back, glaucous,
sparsely and minutely scabrous, bearing a stout, scabrous awn 3 to 4 cm. long.
Palea as long as, or slightly longer than, the flowering glume, glaucous, scabrous,
obtuse at the apex. Joints of the rachis linear, compressed, dilated above,
glaucous, 5 mm. long, very sharply 2-edged, scabrous on the margins.

Type collected by W. N. Suksdorf, No. 224, high mountains, Skamania County,
Wash., August 10, 1896.

Closely related to S. lanceolatum, from which it differs in the glaucous sheaths and
culms, flat, lanceolate leaves which are very smooth on the back, and the pur-
plish, long-exserted spikes with glaucous florets.

20

21. SITANION LANCEOLATUM J. G. Smith, sp. iiov.

Culms 2..") to 5 dm. high, erect or ascendiug, ami somewhat geuicalate at the lower
nodes. Culms terete, smooth aud ascending, striate above. Nodes glabrous.
Sheaths glabrous, striate, closely euvelopiug tlie culms, longer than the inter-
nodes. Ligule almost obsolete. 15lades 8 to 15 cm. long, 2 to 3 mm. wide, rather
rigid, linear, erect, or the basal ones divergent, flat or convolute, glabrous on
the back, scabrous on the margins and nerves above. Spike erect, G to 10 cm.
long, barely exserted, or its base imludod in the uppermost leaf-sheath. Spike-
lets cylindrical, subcompressed, the florets closely overlapping one another.
Empty glumes 5 to 6 mm. long, keeled, lanceolate, 2-nerved, oblique, scarious
on the margins, entire or iine<|ually 2-awned, the longer awn scabrous, diver-
gent, 10 to 15 mm. long. Flowering glume 8 to 9 mm. long, glaucous, rounded
on the back, lanceolate, entire, or minutely 3-toothed at the apex, with a stout,
scabrous, divergent awn 2 to 4 cm. long. Palea as long as its glume, obtuse
or emarginate, scabrous on the margins above. Joints of the rachis, 5 to 7
mm. long, linear, spatulate, compressed, scabrous on the margins.

Type collected by P. A. Eydberg, No. 3381, Barker, Mont., August 17, 1896.

The habit of this grass resembles that o{ Af/rojnjron caninoide'i Beal; the spikelets
and empty glumes are arranged as in Elymus, 1)ut the nervation of the empty
glumes, trifid flowering glume, and the rachis dehiscent at the nodes, are suf-
ficient characters to throw this species into Siianion.

22. SITANION HANSENI (Scribn.) J. G. Smith, nom. nov. Elymus hanseni
Scribn. U. S. Dept. Agr., Div. Agros., Bull. 11 : p. 56. 1898.

"A rather stout, glabrous perennial, 9 to 12 dm. high, with narrow, spreading leaves
and slender fragile spikes 5 to 8 cm. long. Sheaths smooth, striate. Ligule
very short, hardly 1 mm. in length, entire. Leaf-blades 10 to 30 cm. long, 2 to 5
mm. wide. Internodes of the racliis about 1 cm. long. Spikelets 3- to 5-flow-
ered, about 1.5 cm. long, exclusive of the awns. Empty glumes lanceolate,
strongly nerved, tipped with 2, sometimes 3, unequal awns, the longer about
3.5 cm. First flowering glume 10 to 12 mm. long, entire or 2-toothed at the apex,
terminating in a straight or very slender awn about 5 cm. long. Palea about
the length of the glume, minutely scabrous on the sharp keels except at the
base, slightly pubescent at the truncate or 2-tootlied apex."

Amador County, Cal.

Related to S. anomalitm, but taller aud more slender, with mostly single rather
remote spikelets, which are longer.

23. SITANION ANOMALUM J. G. Smith, sp. nov. (PI. IV).

Culms erect or ascending, 5 to 6 dm. higli, terete, smooth. Nodes glabrous. Sheaths
smooth or the lower sparsely hirsute, ciliate along the maxgins, shorter than
the internodes. Ligule nuinbranous, 1 mm. long. Blades 4 to 12 cm. Jong, 3 to
4 mm. wide, involute, rigid, linear, long-attenuate, scabrous throughout. Inllo-
rescence simple or thyrsiform, 1 to 1.5 dm. long, few-llowered, interrupted
below, subllexuous. Siiikelets compressed, 4-flowered, the florcta distant.
Empty ghimes mostly lanceolate, entire, but those of the lowermost s^dkelets
bifid above the middle, with short, scabrous, divergent awns 1 to 4 cm. long.
Flowering glumes I cm. long, narrowly linear-lanceolate, rounded on the back,
smooth below, scabrous above the mid<lle, 3-aristate, lateral awns 1 to 2 mm.
long, the middle one straight, erect, scabrous, 3 to 4.5 cm. long. I'alea shorter
than the flowering glume, obtuse, erose, or bidentate, scabrous along the mar-
gins and on the nerves. Liternodes of the rachis 7 to 10 mm. long, aneiiiital,
scabrous on the margins.

Typo cidhjcted by O. I). Allen, near I'asadena, Cal., May 12, 18S5. This grass is
internu'diate between true tSitaiiioti and true Elymus. The habit is that of
Tlhjmui^, but the articulate rachis, occasionally bifid empty glumes and trifid
flowering glumes, indicate a close relationship with Sitanion.

DouHTFl'L Si'KciKs. Sitanion elymoidei Kaf.

8ul. 18, Div. of Agrostology.

PLATt IV.

^

(7c'feti<r>c '

HtuK I AITTD vriTIN lHi-o:T'i

SiTANION ANOMALUM J. G. Smith. Cotype.

INDHX.

Page.

iEgilops 9

hystiix 12.15

Agropyron caninoides 20

Cbretomcris trichoides 15

Elymus rtifformis 15

hanseni 20

sitanion jubatum I'J

Eusitanion 12

Hordeiforinae 1"

Polyantherix 9

Lystrix 12

Sitauion 9

anomalum 10, 20

breviaristatum 9, 11, 12

bre vifolium 10, 17, 18, 19

ca.'spitosuin 9.16

californieum 10. 13

ciuereum 10, 14

Page.

Sitanion elymoides lo, 16, 17, 20

glabniin 9,13,14

hanseni 10,20

liystrix 10,15,16

insulare 9, 14

jubatum 9,10

lanceola turn 10, 19, 20

longif'i)liuni 10, 18

minus 9, 12

niolle 10,17

luoutanuiu 10, 16, 17

luultisetum 9, 11, 12, 13

lilauifolium 10,19

polyantherix 9, 10, 11, 12

l)ubiliorum 10, 19

rigiduiu 9,13

strigoauni 10, 16, 17

villosum 9,11

21

New York Botanical Garden Librar

3 5185 00259 8728

lili m t~ »> -^ ^.^^.^l^^m^>^M;9^ P'

^fiiiililf

iiliii

Mmm-

liiiiiiffiiiir^