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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 
 
 BOTANICAL DIVISION. 
 SPECIAL BU/EEETEST. 
 
 THE 
 
 AGRICULTURAL GRASSES AND FORAGE PLANTS 
 
 OF THE 
 
 UNITED STATES; 
 
 AND SUCH FOREIGN KINDS AS HAVE BEEN INTRODUCED. 
 
 By Dr. GEO. VASEY, Botanist; 
 
 WITH AN 
 
 APPEXDIX 
 
 On the Chemical Composition of Grasses, by Clifford 
 
 Eichardson, aud a glossary of terms used 
 
 iu describing grasses. 
 
 A NEW, REVISED, AND ENLARGED EDITION, 
 
 WITH Hi PLATES. 
 
 PUBLISHED BY AUTHORITY OF THE SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE. 
 
 WASHINGTON: 
 
 GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE, 
 
 1889. 
 
CtlLTUR* 
 
 LWRAR. 
 
LETTER OF SUBMITTAL. 
 
 Sir: Herewith I present a Report on the Agricultural Grasses and 
 Forage Plants of the United States, with illustrations. 
 
 This report is largely a revised and enlarged edition of the "Agricult- 
 ural Grasses of the Duited States" published by this Department in 
 1884. Iu the present report the principal forage plants, other than 
 grasses, which are employed in agriculture, are treated of. The purpose 
 is to give plain, general descriptions of the plants, together with prac- 
 tical notes and observations from persons who have tested them in 
 actual cultivation or who have given them special investigation. The 
 larger portion of the plants treated of are natives of the United States, 
 but such foreign species as have been tried here have also received 
 proper notice. 
 
 The great extent of this country, with its extraordinary diversities 
 of climate and soil, makes necessary a corresponding diversity in the 
 subjects and methods of agriculture. With respect particularly to 
 grasses and forage plants adapted to different sections of the country 
 we are yet in the infancy of our knowledge, and must patiently and in- 
 telligently conduct such experiments as will give us the precise infor- 
 mation we need. Every farmer and stock- raiser in the country is in- 
 terested in this subject, and it has been the endeavor of the writer to 
 present to the attention of such persons in any part of the country 
 some grasses or forage plants suitable to their wants. 
 Respectfully, 
 
 Geo. Vasey, 
 
 Chief of Botanical Division. 
 Hon. J. M. Rusk, 
 
 Secretary of Agriculture. 
 
AGRICULTURAL GRASSES AND FORAGE PLANTS OF THE UNITED 
 
 STATES. 
 
 INTRODUCTION. 
 
 Every thoughtful farmer realizes the importance of the production 
 on his land of a good supply of grass for pasturage and hay. He who 
 can produce the greatest yield on a given number of acres will be the 
 most successful man; yet this is a subject which has been, and still is, 
 greatly neglected. 
 
 In the United States we have many climates, many kiuds of soil, 
 many geological formations, many degrees of aridity and moisture. It 
 must be apparent that one species of grass can not be equally well 
 adapted to growth in all parts of this extensive territory; yet hardly a 
 dozen species of grasses have been successfully introduced into our 
 agriculture. True it is that this number answers with a tolerable de- 
 gree of satisfaction the wants of quite an extensive portion of the 
 country, chiefly the northern and cooler regions. But it is well known 
 that iu other localities the same kinds of grasses do not succeed equally 
 well, and one of" the most important problems for those regions is to 
 obtain such kinds as shall be thoroughly adapted to their peculiarities 
 of climate and soil. This is particularly the case in the Southern and 
 Southwestern States, the arid districts of the West, and in California. 
 
 •The solution of this question is largely a matter of experiment and 
 observation. 
 
 The grasses which we have in cultivation were once wild grasses, and 
 are still such iu their native homes. 
 
 The question then arises, can we not select from our wild or native 
 species some kinds which will be adapted to cultivation in those por- 
 tions of the country which are not yet provided with suitable kinds ? 
 Many observations and some experiments in this direction have already 
 been made, and if proper research is continued, and sufficiently thorough 
 experiments are followed up, there is no reason to doubt that proper 
 kinds will be found for successful cultivation in all parts of the country. 
 
 The plains lying west of the one hundredth meridian, together with 
 much broken and mountainous interior country, nearly treeless and 
 arid, in New Mexico, western Texas, and Arizona, are unreliable for 
 the purposes of ordinary agriculture, but are becoming more and more 
 
important as the great feeding ground for the multitudes of cattle which 
 supply the wants of the settled regious of our country as well as the 
 constantly increasing foreign demand. The pasturage of this region 
 consists essentially of native grasses, some of which have acquired a 
 wide reputation for their rich nutritious properties, for. their ability to 
 withstand the dry seasons, and for the quality of self-drying or curing, 
 so as to be available for pasturage in the winter. This quality is due 
 probably to the nature of the grasses themselves and to the effect of 
 the arid climate. It is well known that in moist countries, at lower 
 altitudes, the grasses have much succulence; they grow rapidly, and 
 their tissues are soft; a severe frost checks or kills their growth, and 
 chemical changes immediately occur which result in rapid decay : 
 whereas in the arid climate*of the plains the grasses have much less 
 succulence, the foliage being more rigid and dry, and therefore when 
 their growth is arrested by frost the tissues are not engorged with 
 water, the dessicating influence of the climate prevents decay, and the 
 grass is kept on the ground in good condition for winter forage. Gen- 
 eral Benjamin Alvord, of the U. S. Army, in an article on the subject 
 of these winter-cured grasses, states that they only acquire this prop- 
 erty on land which is 3,000 feet above the level of the sea. The region 
 having such an altitude includes, he says, all, nearly up to the timber 
 line, of Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, Colorado, and New 
 Mexico; five-sixths of Arizona, one-half of Dakota, one-fourth of Texas, 
 one-fifth of Kansas, and one-sixth each of California, Oregon, and 
 Washington Territory, embracing about one-fourth of the area of the 
 whole United States. 
 
 Many of the grasses of this extensive region are popularly known as 
 "buuch grass/' from their habit of growth ; others are known as 4 -mes- 
 quite ,1 and "grama grass." These consist of many species of different 
 genera, some of them more or less local and sparingly distributed, 
 others having a wide range from Mexico to British America. 
 
 The most important of the " bunch grasses" may be briefly mentioned 
 as follows: Of the genus Stipa there are several species : Stipa comata 
 and Stipa setigera occur abundantly in Xew Mexico. Texas. Arizona, 
 and California, reaching to Oregon. In Colorado, Kansas, and all the 
 prairie region northward, stretching into British America, Stipa spartea 
 is the principal one of the genus. On the higher plateaus and near the 
 mountains the Stipa viridula is very common, extending from Arizona 
 to Oregon and British America. Somewhat related botanically is Ory- 
 zopsis cuspidata, a very rigid bunch grass, with a fine, handsome panicle 
 of flowers. It is equally widespread with the preceding. Another 
 widely diffused grass is Deschampsia cwspitosa, varying much in size 
 and thriftiness according to the altitude and amount of moisture where 
 it grows, but always having a light, elegant, spreading panicle of 
 silvery gray flowers. 
 
 One of the most extensively diffused grasses is Kwleria cristata, vary- 
 
ing in height from 1 foot to 2J feet, with a narrow and closely flowered 
 spike. Several species of fescue grass (Festuca) are intermixed with 
 the vegetatiou in varying proportions ; the most important of these 
 probably are Festuca ovina in several varieties, and Festuca scahrella, 
 the latter especially in California, Oregon, and Washington. 
 
 The genus Calamagrostis (or Deyeuxia, as it has been called) furnishes 
 several species which contribute largely to the vegetation of this region. 
 They are mostly tall, stiff, and coarse grasses, but leafy and some of 
 them very nutritious. Of these, Calamagrostis sylvatica and Calama- 
 grostis neglecta are the least valuable. Perhaps the best of them is 
 Calamagrostis Canadensis, which is soft and leafy. Next in value, prob- 
 ably, is Calamagrostis Aleutica, of California and Oregon, extending 
 into Alaska. Calamagrostis (Ammophila) longifolia, confined chiefly to 
 the plains east of the Eocky Mountains, is tall and reed-like, growing 
 in dense clumps, from 4 to G feet high. 
 
 Several species of Andropogon are diffused from Arizona to British 
 America, but are not found on the western coast. The principal species 
 are Andropogon scoparius, A. furcatus, and A. (Chrysopogon) nutans. 
 Some of them are known under the name of "bluejoint." 
 
 Other grasses also widely spread, but in more sparing quantity, are 
 several species of Poa and Glyceria. Several varieties of Agropyrum 
 repens, or couch grass, occur abundantly in saline soils, and also Agro- 
 pyrum glaucum, which is widely known as " blue stem," and is considered 
 among the most nutritious of grasses. Brizopyrum spicatum, now called 
 Disticlilis maritima, and some species of Sporobolus, also form extensive 
 patches or meadows in saline soils. Besides there is a large number 
 of grasses of low growth and of more spreading habit, which are known 
 in the southwest and east of the Rocky Mountains under the names of 
 "inesquite" and u buffalo "" grasses. The former belong mostly to the 
 genus Boutelona, the most important species being B. racembsa, or tall 
 mesquite, and B. oligostachya, or low mesquite. The true buffalo grass 
 is, botanically, Buchloe dactyloides, which in many places forms exten- 
 sive fields over large areas. It is of a low and densely tufted or matted 
 habit. Another similar grass, but of little value, spreading out in low, 
 wide patches, is Munroa squarrosa. The above-mentioned species form 
 the larger proportion of the grassy vegetation of the great plains. 
 
ERE ATA. 
 
 Page 35, after "Andropogon furcatus" insert li {A. provindalis) ". 
 
 Page ill, after "Ammophila arundinacea " for "43" read "48"; after "Clover, 
 pin" for " 103" read " 102." 
 
 Page 112, after " Eucblama luxurians" for "30" read "31." 
 
 Page 113, after " Sporobolus heterolepis" for "107" read "106"; after " Sweet 
 vernal grass" for "39" read "40"; after "Trifolium stoloniferum " for "82" read 
 "83"; after " Trisetum subspicatum" for "51" read "52"; after "Wire grass" for 
 "107 "read "106." 
 
 Page 147, for " Millium " read " Milium " ; in tbe same line, for " 41 " read "40." 
 
 Page 148, after "Trifolium incaruatum " for "94" read "93." 
 
 Plate 10, for "bine grass " read " millet." 
 
 Plate 62. for " Gramma" and "gramma " read " Grama " and " grama." 
 
 Plate 63, for "gramma" read " grama." 
 
 Plate 83, for " Rougb-leaved fescue " read " Buncb grass." 
 
GRASSES FOR GENERAL CULTURE. 
 
 The grasses form oiie of the largest and most widely diffused families 
 of plants, being spread over all habitable parts of the globe. Some 
 kinds are restricted to particular localities, others are diffused over large 
 countries, and a few are either native to all the continents or have fol- 
 lowed in the tracks of commerce and discovery, so as now to be found 
 in every principal country. Over three thousand species are now known 
 and described. Among these there is an immense diversity in size and 
 form of growth, some kinds never growing more than an inch or two 
 high, and others in tropical regions attaining a height of 60 or 70 feet, 
 with such a density of stem as to be useful in the building of houses, 
 for masts for vessels, and many other purposes; as the bamboos of 
 China, Japan, and India. 
 
 The grasses are of greater economic importance, as furnishing food 
 for man and animals, than any other or all other plants. The truth of 
 this remark will at once be recognized when we consider that all the 
 staple cereals of the world, as wheat, rye, barley, maize, rice, oats, mil- 
 let, etc., are grasses. 
 
 These grasses have been objects of cultivation from time immemorial. 
 There can be no doubt that they were originally selected from wild 
 forms on account of the size, quantity, and nutritive value of their 
 grains. The fact of their great value being discovered, the observation 
 would soon follow that by planting the seeds in suitable ground, and 
 caring for the growing plants by the exclusion of all other vegetation, 
 a certain and reliable resource for sustenance would be obtained. 
 
 This was the beginning of agriculture, and agriculture made possible 
 the numerical increase and diffusion of human population. 
 
 History of Grass Culture. — The selection and cultivation of particular 
 kinds of grasses with reference to their superior grazing qualities and 
 f < r the greater production of hay is, however, a comparatively modern 
 practice. 
 
 In the Philippine Islands, as we are informed by the United States 
 consul at Manilla (Mr. Julius G. Voight), a species of rice grass (Leer- 
 sia hexandra) is cultivated for the purpose of supplying feed for the few 
 domestic animals which are kept for the cultivation of land and for the 
 carrying of burdens. 
 
 9 
 
10 
 
 This grass (locally called zacate) is cultivated exclusively in low, wet 
 ground, and is flooded occasionally alter the manner of rice, being first 
 started in seed beds and then transplanted to the previously flowed 
 field. How far this custom prevails in otber eastern countries we do 
 not know, but from the general antiquity and uniformity of the prac- 
 tices of husbandry in those countries we may suppose that this practice 
 is there of ancient origin.. 
 
 But as far as western nations are concerned the cultivation of spe- 
 cial grasses for hay is a modern improvement, fer. Martin J. Sutton, 
 in a recent work on "Permanent and Temporary Pastures," states that 
 Lolium perenne, or perennial rye grass, was the first grass gathered 
 separately for agricultural purposes. Ee further states that it has 
 been known since 1611, the date of the earliest agricultural book which 
 mentions it. Mr. George Sinclair, in his advertisement to the fourth 
 edition of tlie " Hortus Gramineus Woburnensis," says: 
 
 The time has heeu in this country [i. c, England] when providing sufficient for- 
 age for live stock in winter was a matter of the greatest difficulty; and great losses 
 were sustained, and many advantages given up, on account of the absolute want of 
 winter fodder. Old turf, suitable either for grazing or for the scythe, was supposed to 
 be a creation of centuries, and that a farmer, who wished to lay down a meadow in his 
 youth, must see the end of his " three score years and ten " before he could possibly 
 possess a piece of pasture capable of keeping a score of sheep or a couple of cows. 
 So much was the want of grass land felt among arable farmers iu times past that the 
 tenancy of it was eagerly sought, its value was consequently highly prized, and 
 heavy fines were imposed for breaking it up. The banks of riveis were usually made 
 commonable, in order that the surrounding farmers might each have a share: and 
 these meadows were in many cases irrigated in order to increase still more the scanty 
 stock of winter fodder. 
 
 Perennial rye grass, as we have seen, began to be cultivated early 
 in the seventh century, and it seems to have been about the only grass 
 so cultivated for a hundred years longer. Iu 17G3 it is said that a Mr, 
 Wynch brought from Virginia into England the Phleum pratense, under 
 the local name of Timothy grass, it having been cultivated iu the 
 United States for some forty years. This was also soon established as 
 an agricultural grass in England, and a few years later was followed 
 by the introduction of orchard grass {Dactylis glomerata) from Virginia, 
 by the Society of Arts ; at least this statement is made by Mr. Parnell 
 in his work on British grasses, but is probably an error. It is con- 
 sidered doubtful by Mr. Charles Johnson in the "Grasses of Great 
 Britain," who says it is eminently European, being distributed natu- 
 rally over the whole of Europe ard the adjoining parts of Asia. It is 
 not known to be native in the United States. 
 
 As to Phi en 7n pratense (Timothy grass), it is naturally widely diffused 
 over Europe, but it is admitted by all that its cultivation was first under- 
 taken in the United States, where it is also indigenous in mountainous 
 regions. It is, however, well known that in Europe up to about the year 
 1815 there were but three or four kinds of grass generally cultivated. 
 
11 
 
 At that time the Duke of Bedford instituted his famous series of ex- 
 periments at Woburn, in England, for determining the nutritive prop- 
 erties of different grasses. These experiments brought into notice 
 many before unnoticed grasses and greatly stimulated their cultivation ; 
 and the subsequent development of this branch of agriculture has been 
 the means of obtaining astonishing results, not only in the multiplied 
 facilities for the grazing and fattening of cattle and sheep, but also in 
 the reaction of this business on the cultivation of grain, by t'ie greatly 
 multiplied means of obtaining manures by which the exhausted lands 
 were renewed and the yield of grain increased. 
 
 History of Grass Culture in the United States. — In the early history of 
 this country, particularly in the Northern States, while the settlements 
 were sparse, the natural pasturage was abundant, and the natural 
 meadows and marshes furnished a supply of hay for winter feeding. 
 But in course of time, by the increase of population, the farms began 
 to crowd each other, and the range for cattle was restricted. 
 
 Then probably arose the question of forming meadows and pastures 
 of limited extent. Early in the last century Mr. Jared Elliot (of Con- 
 necticut) made some valuable investigations respecting the grasses suit- 
 able for cultivation, and by practice and teaching sought to bring this 
 subject to the attention of the people. 
 
 In 1749 he wrote a particular account of the fowl meadow grass (Poa 
 serotina) which is native in New England, giving an interesting account 
 of its value as a meadow grass. 
 
 He also reiers to Herd's grass, or Timothy, as having been found " in 
 a swamp in Piscataqua by one Herd, who propagated the same." It is 
 also said to have been cultivated in Maryland about the year 1720. This 
 was some fifty years before its cultivation in England. It is also stated 
 by Paruell in his work on the British Grasses, that orchard grass 
 (Dactylis glomeraia) was first cultivated in the United States, and thence 
 introduced into England about the middle of the eighteenth century. 
 Probably soon after this date two other standard grasses came into use, 
 viz, Poa pratemis (Kentucky blue grass) and Agrostis alba (redtop). 
 Some other grasses have had a limited trial, but the Timothy grass, 
 blue grass, orchard grass, and redtop have continued to be the prin- 
 cipal meadow grasses of the Northern States. To these should be added 
 red clover, which, although not a grass, is a very common meadow crop, 
 usually combined with Timothy. 
 
 Grass in the South. — Although the Southern States were earlier settled 
 than the Northern ones, there was a very different condition of agri- 
 culture as respects grazing and hay-making. In some of these States 
 the climate permits of the growth of grasses during the greater part of 
 the year, some species making their growth during the hot season and 
 others during the colder mouths, so that cattle may commonly obtain 
 subsistence in the field throughout the year, and hay is little employed 
 except for horses and cattle kept to labor. 
 
12 
 
 But these places suffer from protracted droughts in summer and fall, 
 which parch the pastures so that cattle and sheep are not then able to 
 find a sufficiency of feed. The pasture and meadow grasses of the iSorth 
 have not been generally cultivated with Success in the States which 
 border on the Gult of Mexico, and the greatest want of agriculture in 
 that region is the introduction of grasses that will maintain growth and 
 vigor during protracted droughts. 
 
 The same remarks may be made with respect to the grasses needed 
 for cultivation in the arid districts of the West, and there is every rea- 
 son to expect that grasses adapted to such conditions of climate and 
 soil will be*found. 
 
 Permanence of Pastures and Meadows. — It has long been a question as 
 to how long land should be allowed to continue in pasture or meadow. 
 The answer to this question will depend very much on circumstances. 
 
 Unquestionably the best plan for farming is the practice of mixed 
 husbandry, or a mixture of raising grain crops and the fattening of do- 
 mestic animals; for with a diversity of products there is an alleviation 
 of the evils of frequent crop failures, which are usually limited to one 
 or two kinds, and also an alleviation of the fluctuations in the prices of 
 crops, so that where some grain crops fail from any cause, the farmer 
 has a resource in those of another kind and in his live stock. Besides, 
 the rotation of crops, including the periodical laying down of cultivated 
 ground to grass, and the change of grass land to the growth of field 
 crops, results in the best condition of the soil. 
 
 In the practice of most farmers, meadow lands are seldom continued 
 more than three or four years without a. change to the plow. But 
 pasture lands are more frequently kept undisturbed for a longer 
 time, and so long as they continue in a healthy, clean, and productive 
 state there can be no objection to their permanence; but whenever a 
 pasture becomes overgrown with weeds, or filled with worthless or 
 unproductive grasses, it is time for it to take its place in a system 
 of rotation and renovation, at the same time regarding the needs of 
 the soil in respect to fertilizing and cleaning from rocks, briers, and 
 other shrubs. 
 
 Drainage of Grass Lands. — Generally speaking, there is the same benefit 
 to be derived from the proper drainage of grass lands, that is so con- 
 spicuously shown in lands devoted to other crops. All lands with an 
 impervious subsoil of stiff clay, or soils that are water-clogged, may be 
 greatly benefited by proper draining, both in the quality and quan- 
 tity of the grass product. On such land, properly drained, the grass will 
 start earlier in the spring and will continue to grow later in the fall 
 than without drainage. All soils which rest upon a porous subsoil do 
 not need it, and land may have so strong a slope that the water is dis- 
 charged from it with sufficient rapidity without the aid of a drain. 
 Wet, water-soaked pastures generally abound in rushes and sedges, 
 which may grow luxuriantly, but are coarse and innutritious. The valu- 
 
13 
 
 able grasses on such pastures are injured or destroyed by the tramping 
 of cattle, whose hoof's penetrate the wet ground. 
 
 An eminent German scientist has demonstrated that there is an intimate connection 
 between a warm, dry soil and economy in feeding cattle. Friable land absorbs more 
 heat than land which is saturated with moisture, and retains the heat for a longer 
 period. Upon the one, animals lie warmer, especially at night, than they do upon the 
 other. Now a largo portion of the food consumed by animals is utilized for the pro- 
 duction of the heat which is constantly dissipated from their bodies. It follows that 
 additional food becomes necessary to replace the animal heat lost by the colder sur- 
 roundings.* 
 
 The Selection of Grasses. — The selection of the proper kinds of grasses 
 to be employed for meadows or pastures must depend on several cir- 
 cumstances, such as soil, drainage, habit of growth, productions, etc. 
 No one kind of grass can be expected to be adapted to all conditions, 
 neither can any given mixture of grasses. There has been a great 
 amount of empiricism in this matter. One man finds a certain grass to 
 be very thrifty and productive on his farm, and thinks he has found the 
 great desideratum, and at once proclaims his grass, perhaps gives it a 
 new name, and recommends its use, without regard to the conditions or 
 circumstances which may be absolutely essential to its success. 
 
 Others purchase seed of the new grass, perhaps at exorbitant prices, 
 and without a knowledge of its peculiar habits or wants, give it a trial 
 and find it a failure, probably because climate or soil, or other essential 
 conditions are unsuitable to its wants. 
 
 Mr. Sutton, writing on this subject, says : 
 
 The whole question is one of experience, and I am well persuaded that those who 
 possess the largest knowledge, drawn from the widest sources, will concur in the 
 opinion that each individual case should be considered independently and upon its 
 own merits. I would lay great stress upon the necessity of starting with a clear under- 
 standing of the condition and capability of the soil. The subsoil, too, must be taken 
 into account ; for sooner or later its influence will tell decisively upon the existence 
 of certain grasses. 
 
 Then the purpose of the grass crop must not be overlooked. Whether it is chiefly 
 for hay or entirely for grazing will prove an important consideration in determining 
 the sorts to be sown. Even the kind of cattle the land is intended to carry is worth 
 more than a passing thought. Milch cows, fattening stock, sheep, and horses, or a 
 combination of these animals, can be provided for if a definite object is held steadily 
 in view. 
 
 In an old and well-settled country there is much accumulated experi- 
 ence among farmers, which a beginner may avail himself of to the avoid- 
 ance of serious mistakes. Still an observing and progressive man will 
 often find occasion for a departure from established rules and practices 
 in the introduction of new kinds for cultivation ; indeed it is only thus 
 that progress and improvement can be made ; but it will also be wise to 
 make such experiments with caution and without incurring too much risk. 
 
 In some portions of our country the experience of the past is very 
 unsatisfactory with respect to grass culture ; and in other portions, as 
 
 * Sutton on Permanent aud Temporary Pastures, 
 
14 
 
 in the new settlements of the arid districts, all culture must be in the 
 nature of experiment, and much judgment and large information are 
 needed to guide the experimenter to the best results. 
 
 Relation of Stock to Pastures. — The farmer and grazier should always 
 bear in mind that his pastures should be adapted to the kind as well 
 as the quantity of stock which he keeps. Cattle and sheep are very 
 different in their feeding habits, the sheep cropping the grass very 
 close, and cattle requiring to have the grass longer in order to get a 
 bite. Horses again do not bite as close as cattle. By judiciously 
 proportioning the kind of stock kept on the pasture a much better 
 result may be obtained by keeping both cattle and sheep thau by 
 keeping either alone. The field will thus be kept cleaner and in better 
 condition. 
 
 Management of the Pasture. — Care must be observed that cattle or 
 sheep be not put upon grass too early in the spring, before the grass has 
 fairly commenced to grow. This rule applies particularly to sheep, who 
 will in such cases eat the heart out of the grass crown, to its entire 
 destruction. When, however, the grasses have made a good start there 
 will be much of the taller stalks and coarser culms which the sheep will 
 reject, and which cattle will crop with avidity. As the season advances 
 there are often bunches of grass neglected by both cattle and sheep, giv- 
 ing to the pasture a rough and uneven appearance, when the mower 
 should be run over the pasture, after which the old tufts will send up 
 another crop of tender blades. 
 
 No precise date can be given for beginning to graze pastures in the spring. Cattle 
 should not be „urned in until there is enough feed to keep them going without too 
 much help from hay, nor until the ground is firm enough to prevent their hoofs from 
 damaging the youug shoots of the grasses. 
 
 On the other hand, if the grass gets too old, the animals refuse much of it, and the 
 fodder will be lost. Pastures consisting largely of early, stroug-growiug grasses, 
 particularly cock's foot (orchard grass), will need to be stocked before others which 
 produce finer and later varieties.* 
 
 It is sometimes a nice question to determine when to take stock off 
 the pastures in the fall. This will depend much on the length of the 
 growing season in any particular locality. In northern latitudes the 
 growth of vegetation will be arrested early, and when the grass has 
 quite ceased to grow the stock should be removed that the ground may 
 be in proper condition for an early start in the following spring. Usu- 
 ally, however, in northern sections of the country the question is effect- 
 ually settled by the early descent of the winter snows. In southern 
 latitudes the climate is so mild that the growing season continues all 
 winter, so that stock live mainly or entirely upon the growing grass, 
 there being sorts there which naturally make their principal growth in 
 the coolest portion of the year. 
 
 * Sutton on Permanent and Temporary Pastures. 
 
15 
 
 Supplementary Feed. — It often happens that a drought occurs in the 
 summer or fall, in which the pastures are dried and parched so that the 
 cattle fail to get a sufficient amount of feed. It is, therefore, the prac- 
 tice of careful and provident farmers to huve a tract of land sown to 
 some kind of fodder, which may be drawn upon to supply the deficiency 
 of pasturage, and not only to keep the animals from suffering, but to 
 keep them also in a growiug condition. Corn sown broadcast or in 
 close drills, or sorghum sown in like manner, are some of the best 
 grasses for this purpose. 
 
 Some varieties of sweet corn, combining earliuess and productiveness 
 or large size, will be better than common held corn, especially to keep 
 up the supply of milk from cows. 
 
 Hungarian grass and millet make excellent fodder crops. They are 
 both considered to be but varieties of the same species, and there is 
 practically little difference between them. If sowed on tolerably rich 
 ground they will produce sometimes a very large yield of grass. They 
 are of rapid growth, and are frequently ready to be cut two months 
 from the time of sowing. They generally produce an abundance of nu- 
 tritious seeds, on account of which cattle thrive better on them than on 
 corn fodder. Beets and prickly comfrey are also recommended as fod- 
 der plants in some localities. 
 
 The pastures may also often be relieved by turning stock on to 
 stubble after harvest. 
 
 Humanity dictates that a man should not keep any more stock than 
 he can under ordinary circumstances care for and give sufficient feed. 
 But a provident and good manager will be enabled safely to keep a 
 much larger number than a man who is shiftless and careless. He will 
 do this by making provision for casualties and probable contingencies. 
 It is much better and more profitable to have a surplus of feed than to 
 have a deficiency. 
 
 Kind of Grasses for Meadows and Pastures. — In this country there has 
 been very little variety in the kinds of grasses cultivated, the range 
 being generally Timothy, blue grass or June grass, orchard grass, and 
 redtop, usually combined more or less with red or white clover. 
 
 Farmers are influenced somewhat by the markets they supply. The 
 most popular hay in the markets of the great cities is Timothy, and 
 meadows of this grass alone are very common, and when well managed 
 are very satisfactory and profitable. It is also very common to combine 
 Timothy with red clover in various proportions. 
 
 In low, wet meadows, particularly in New England, redtop is con- 
 siderably employed, and it is a common constituent of pastures in all 
 the Northern States. 
 
 In England, great attention has been given to combining several 
 kinds of grasses in meadows, and it is claimed that the practice is 
 setter for the land and gives a larger yield than when one variety only 
 is employed. By using a mixture the ground may often be more uni- 
 
16 
 
 fonnly covered, and in pastures there will be, from the different flow- 
 ering time of the different species, a succession and continuation of a 
 supply of tender foliage. 
 
 Some species of grass are adapted to clay lands, some to sandy soils, 
 some to loam, some to dry upland, and some to low laud; but even for 
 land of a uniform quality it is believed that a mixture of five or six suit- 
 able varieties will yield a larger crop than one aloue. The mixture of 
 several varieties is perhaps most valuable in land that is designated for 
 pasturage, as then they reach maturity at different times and furnish 
 a succession of good feed, and also cover more completely and uniformly 
 the ground. But no general mixture of grass seed can be adapted to all 
 situations and soils. Every farmer should study carefully the nature 
 of his grounds, its altitude, drainage and composition, and then adapt 
 his grasses to the circumstances. • 
 
 Generally there are few cases where there will be any advantage in 
 employing more than five or six well-selected varieties for cultivation 
 in one field. For a permanent pasture under most circumstances the 
 following kinds in proper proportions would make a good mixture, viz : 
 June grass (blue grass), fox-tail {Alopecurus pratensk), redtop (bent 
 grass), Timothy, tall fescue, and perennial rye grass. This will give 
 a succession as to earliness of growth and flowering. 
 
 But in some localities and for some soils, as in Kentucky for instance, 
 the farmer who has a good pasture of blue grass will not think it capa- 
 ble of much improvement. As we speak of the individual kinds of 
 grasses and their adaptation to different soils, the farmer will be able 
 to judge how far they will suit his circumstances. 
 
 Mixed Grasses for Pasturage.— For pasturage, however, we recommend a vari- 
 ety of grasses and thick seeding. Stock like variety and thrive better on it. Each 
 variety has its season of greatest excellence, and thus the best pasturage can be kept 
 up throughout the year. The common red clover should be sown with the grasses 
 for all pastures. It is a rank grower and resists drought admirably. We are glad 
 more attention is being paid to pasturage. Improved farming can not be carried on 
 without it. and in nothiug are the majority of our farmers more neglectful than in 
 seeding inore of their farms to good pastures.* 
 
 A Kentucky farmer gives the following mixture where an immediate 
 pasture is wanted : 
 
 Blue grass pounds.. 8 
 
 Orchard grass do 4 
 
 Timothy do.... 4 
 
 Red clover do.... "6 
 
 To this may be added Italiau rye grass, 4 pounds, and the same 
 amount of fescue grass if preferred, but the other is ordinarily sufficient. 
 This quantity is a heavy seeding for one acre. The blue grass will 
 not be seen much at first, but by the time the clover dies out it will 
 have taken hold of the entire surface. 
 
 * Colman's Rural World. 
 
17 
 
 A writer in the New England Farmer recommends the following for- 
 mula for a permanent pasture : 
 
 Early varieties— 
 
 Red clover pounds.. 10 
 
 Alsike clover do 5 
 
 Orchard grass bushel . . 1 
 
 June grass do 1 
 
 Perennial rye grass do 1 
 
 Late varieties — 
 
 Herd's grass do ^ 
 
 R. I. bent grass do ^ 
 
 Redtop do 1 
 
 This forms an unusually heavy seeding, and probably the quantities 
 may be advautageously reduced, but the combination presents a vari- 
 ety that will give a succession from early till late in the season. 
 The more common mixture for meadows is as follows per acre : 
 
 Redtop bushel . . 1 
 
 Timothy do -J 
 
 Red clover pounds . . 4 
 
 On highlands orchard grass might be substituted for the redtop. 
 
 Time and Manner of Seeding Grass Seed. — There has been much diver- 
 sity of opinion as to the proper time of seeding land to grass. A very 
 common practice has been to sow the seed in the spring with a grain 
 crop, generally of oats. If the season is favorable this method suc- 
 ceeds very well, having the advantage of no loss in the regular crops 
 of the land. The growing grain furnishes to the young grass shelter 
 and shade from the heat of the sun, and after the removal of the crop 
 the grass spreads, and sometimes the same season furnishes a light crop 
 tor the scythe or some grazing for the cattle. But the success of this 
 plan of seeding is not by any means certain. In a very dry season the 
 young plants may perish from drought, or in a wet season the grain 
 may lodge and smother the young grass. Hence others recommend 
 late summer or early fall seeding. A writer in the Massachusetts 
 Ploughmau makes the following statement : 
 
 The last half of August is generally considered the best time for seeding ; earlier 
 than this the weather is apt to be too hot for the ready germination of the seed, and 
 weeds will get a start before the grass. The first half of September is a good time, 
 and we have sometimes had very good success with seeding as late as October 1, but 
 would prefer to sow earlier if possible. If rye is sown with the grass seed it is best 
 done about the middle of September; too much rye will choke the grass, but a light 
 seeding of about oue-half to five-eighths of a bushel per acre will not injure the 
 grass much, and will give a much better return the next season than the grass alone. 
 
 Too little care is usually bestowed upon the preparation of the laud for seeding : 
 it should be worked only when just moist enough to make the lumps crush easily, ami 
 should be harrowed repeatedly and rolled before sowing the seed, then brushed and 
 rolled again, which will leave the land in fine, smooth order for the mowing-machine 
 or scythe. 
 
 It is customary to mix Herd's grass, redtop, and clover seed in seeding, but we 
 prefer to seed high land with Herd's grass (Phleum pratense) only low, moist land 
 with redtop (Agrosiis vulgaris) and fescue, and clove" by itself in the spring, for the 
 3594 GR 2 
 
18 
 
 that the season of maturity of the-' grai is very different ; the clovershould 
 
 be cat about the 15th of June while in blossom, the Herd's grass aboat Jnly 1, and 
 the redtop about July 15. When they are mixed it will he impossible to cut them 
 
 all in perfection ; and if the Herd's grass is cut too early in dry weather it is almost 
 Bure to be killed out. 
 
 Mi. T. C. Alvord, of Vermont, writes in the Boston Cultivator as fol- 
 lows : 
 
 For a number of years past I have sown grass seed only in the spring. On such 
 lands as I wish to seed down without grain I tit my laud in the fall if I can. as that 
 saves valuable time in the spring ; but if I do not have time to perform the work in 
 the fall, I tit the land as early as I can in the spring, sowing the seed then. On all lauds 
 that I seed down I finish working the land before the seed is sown, never covering 
 the seed. I think where grass seed is harrowed, raked, or brushed in much of the 
 seed is covered so deep that it never comes up. 
 
 Many people think that grass seed sown in the spring will not make a good crop of 
 hay the first season, and that it requires two seasons to do it. This is an error. On 
 all the lands that I have sown with grass seed in the spring the grass has been ripe 
 enough to cut in from ten to twelve weeks from the time the seed was sown, while I 
 invariably get better crops than I do when I seed down with grain. If the grain lodges 
 it will kill the grass, and if the weather is dry the grass will dry up, while in both 
 eases the land will need reseeding; also weeds aud foul grasses will occupythe soil. 
 
 If grass seed is sown by itself in the spring it will generally get so good a start that 
 no ordinary dry or hot weather in the summer will injure the crop. When seeding 
 laud in this way a sufficient quantity of seed should be sown, so that if it all grows 
 the land will be all occupied with grass, thus preventing the growth of weeds, also 
 giving a large yield with a better quality of grass, while forming a thicker turf to 
 be turned under for the enrichment of the soil when the land is again plowed. 
 
 On all lands which I have seeded in this way the first crop of hay has averaged 
 two tons per acre. 
 
 Reseeding Old and Worn-out Meadows. — We have already stated that all 
 wet lands with a clay subsoil should be subjected to a system of tile 
 drainage, but in some cases a temporary substitute may be found in a 
 certain manner of plowing, as is detailed in the following communica- 
 tion from a correspondent of the American Cultivator: 
 
 I will state my experience, in brief, on cold, wet, swale-land lhat was once a black- 
 ash swamp. The grass was so light and wild it did not pay for cutting. Immedi- 
 ately after haying I plowed it in deep wide furrows, being sure to lap them and turn 
 ilat over. I took pains to make dead furrows where they should be. aud also a clear 
 outlet at the lower end of the furrows. I harrowed lightly with a hue harrow, and 
 went over the field with a hoe aud tixed the loose sod. and top-dressed with a light 
 coat of manure and gravelly loam scraped up in the milking yard, and sowed on a 
 mixture of redtop. timothy, and English flat turnip seed, then brushed lightly. 
 Now for results: In the first place. I harvested turnips enough from the piece to pay 
 for the labor of plowing and fitting the piece, and the next harvest I cut the heaviest 
 burden of hay from that land that I ever saw on any meadow : it was waist-high and 
 very thick. I accounted for it in this way. the land was thoroughly drained by the 
 spaces left between the furrows, aud the decaying sod provided a rich, warm seed- 
 bed above the cold, wet, hard-pan. a portion of which had been brought to the sur- 
 face by the deep plowing. Of course a roller would not have been tolerated on the 
 piece, as it would have been detrimental to the best results. I wanted to get the 
 land up and keep it up as long as I could, and let it breathe by leaving space for air 
 t.» pass in under and come up through : and I believe that if such land was plowed 
 in that way clear up to freezing time and seeded then or left until early spriug, when 
 clover seed could be added, most excellent results would follow. 
 
GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF GRASSES. 
 
 A grass possesses the following parts : (1) The root, (2) the stem, (3) 
 the leaves, (4) the flowers. 
 
 (1) The roots are the fibrous branching organs which extend down- 
 ward into the ground and appropriate the water or other liquid nutri- 
 ment to be conveyed into the stem aud leaves. 
 
 (2) A stem that rises above ground, either erect, ascending, or re- 
 clining, is called a culm. In some species, in addition to the culm, 
 there are horizontal subterranean stems, improperly called roots. They 
 are known botanically as rhizomes, and are sometimes several feet long. 
 They may be distinguished from the true roots by their bearing a 
 greater or less number of scales and sending out erect branches as 
 well as fibrous roots. In some grasses there is a kind of bulb at the 
 base of the stem, in whieh is stored a concentrated mass of food for 
 the support of the plant under peculiar circumstances, as in protracted 
 drought. This bulbous formation is a part of the stem, and not of the 
 root. The stem or culm of grasses is usually cylindrical and hollow ; 
 sometimes it is more or less compressed or flattened. It is divided at 
 intervals by transverse thickened portions called joiuts or nodes, at 
 which points leaves and sometimes branches are given off. These 
 nodes tend also to strengthen the stem. Stems are usually simple and 
 unbrauched, except at the top, where they commonly divide into the 
 more or less numerous branches of the panicle or flowering part. But 
 some stems give rise from the side joints to leafy branches, which may, 
 like the main stem, produce smaller panicles at the top. 
 
 (3) The leaves take their origin at the nodes or joints in two ranks — 
 that is, they are placed alternately on opposite sides of the stem at 
 greater or less distances; thus, the first leaf will be on one side, the 
 second on the opposite side a little higher up, the third still higher and 
 directly over the first, the fourth over the second, and so on. The leaves 
 consist of three parts: (1) the sheath, (2) the ligule, and (3) the blade. 
 The sheath is that part which clasps the stem. It is generally open on 
 one side, as will be readily observed in the leaves of a corn-stalk, but in 
 some grasses the sheath is partly or even completely closed together 
 by the adhesion of the opposite edges. The sheath is analogous to the 
 stem or petiole of the leaves of many higher plants. At the point where 
 the blade of the leaf leaves the stem, at the top of the sheath and cr 
 
 19 
 
20 
 
 the inner side, there is usually a small, thin, membranous organ, called 
 the ligule or tongue. This is sometimes naif an inch long, more com- 
 monly only two or three lines, and sometimes it is almost absent or re- 
 duced to a short ring, but its length and size are very constant in the 
 same species. This ligule represents the stipules which occur at the 
 base of the leaves iu many of the higher plants. The blade or lamina 
 is the expanded part of the leaf, but is usually called by the general 
 name leaf. In the majority of grasses the leaf is long and narrow ; that 
 is, many times longer than wide. There is one central nerve, called the 
 midnerve or midrib, extending to the point of the leaf, with numerous 
 finer nerves on each side running parallel to it, and not connected by 
 conspicuous transverse nerves nor giving off branches. These leaves are 
 in some species rough, in others smooth, hairy, or downy, etc. The agri- 
 cultural value of a grass depends mainly upon the quantity, quality, 
 size, and nutritive properties of the leaves. 
 
 (4) The flowers of the grasses are generally at the end of the stem or 
 the side branches, sometimes very few in number, sometimes in great 
 abundance, sometimes in a close spike, and sometimes in a panicle, with 
 many spreading branches or rays. The flowers may be single on the 
 branches or on the pedicels, or they may be variously clustered. In 
 the common redtop (Agrostis alba or A. vulgaris) there is a single flower 
 at the end of each of the small branchlets of the panicle. Each of these 
 flowers is inclosed by a pair of small leaf-like scales or chaff, called the 
 outer or einpty glumes. The flower consists of (1) the essential organs 
 and (2) the envelopes. The essential organs are the stamens and pistils, 
 which may readily be seen when the grass is in bloom. The stamens, 
 of which there are usually three in each flower, consist of the anther and 
 filament, the anther being the small organ which contains the pollen or 
 dust which fertilizes the pistil or female organ, and the filament being 
 the thread-like stem on which the anther is borne. 
 
 The pistil is the central organ of the flower, and consists of three 
 parts ; the ovary, the style, and the stigmas. In most grasses the style 
 is divided into two branches. The stigmas are the delicate organs, 
 usually of a plumose form, at the extremities of these branches, which 
 receive the pollen for the fertilization of the flower; and the ovary is 
 that part at the base which contains the future seed. 
 
 The envelopes of the flower are usually two leaf like scales or husks, 
 inclosing between them the stamens and pistil. These scales lace each 
 other, one being a very little higher on the axis than the other, and also 
 usually smaller and more delicate in texture. This smaller scale is 
 called the palet; the other larger and usually coarser one the flowering 
 glume; its edges generally overlap and partly inclose the palet. 
 
 The flower constituted as above described, together with the pair of 
 outer or empty glumes at the base, form what is called a spikelet. In 
 many cases, however, there are two, three, or more flowers, sometimes 
 even ten to twenty, in one spikelet. in which case they are arranged 
 
21 
 
 alternately on opposite sides of the axis, one above the other, with a 
 
 pair of empty or outer glumes at the base of the cluster. Such may be 
 
 seen in the blue grass (Poa pratensis), fescue grass (Festuca) and many 
 
 others. 
 
 There are innumerable modifications of these floral organs, and upon 
 
 the differences which exist in them the distinctions of genera and species 
 
 are based. In some cases the glumes are entire in outline, in some they 
 
 are toothed and lobed, and sometimes running out into a slender point 
 
 called an awn, sometimes with a bristle or awn on the back, etc. They 
 
 also vary in size from the twentieth part of an inch to an inch or more 
 
 in length. 
 
 PLATE l. 
 
 Fig. 1. 1, fibrous roots ; 4, culm; 5, node ; 6, leaf. 
 
 2. 2, rhizoma; 4, culm ; 6, blade of leaf; 7, ligule ; 9, scales of the rhizoma. 
 
 3. 1, root libers; 3, bulbous base of culm ; 4, culm ; 5, sheath ; (5, blade. 
 
 4. 2, scaly rhizomas; 4, node; G, blade; 7, ligule ; 9, scales of the rhizoma. 
 
 5. 1, fibrous roots; 2, creeping rhizoma: 4, culm; 5, sheath : G, blade; 7, calm; 
 
 8, nodes. 
 
 PLATE 2. 
 
 The numbers in each of the figures are as follows: 1, sheath ; 2, blade ; 3, culm : 4, 
 node, or joint; 5, ligule. 
 The ligule is best shown in the lower right-hand figure. 
 
 PLATE 3. 
 
 Fig. 1. A dense spike (Alopecurus pratensis). 
 
 2. An elongated, one-sided spike (Paspalum dilatatum). 
 
 3. Spike (Hordeum prateuse). 
 
 4. Spike (Agropyrum repens). 
 
 5. Spike (Elymus condensatus). 
 
 G. Spike (Bouteloua polystaehya). 
 
 7. Spike (Bouteloua oligostachya). 
 
 8. Panicle (Panicum Crus-galli). 
 
 9. Panicle (Agrostis exarata). 
 
 10. Panicle (Koeleria cristata). 
 
 11. Panicle (Distichlis maritima). 
 
 12. Panicle (Bromus secaliuus). 
 
 13. Panicle (Hierochloa borealis). 
 
 14. Panicle (Poa pratensis). 
 
 15. Panicle (Dactylis glomerata). 
 
 PLATE 4. 
 
 Fig. 1. Two spikelets, one closed, one opened, of Agrostis vulgaris. 
 
 2. Two spikelets, one closed, one opened, of Agrostis exarata. 
 
 3. Two spikelets, one closed, one opened, of Sporobolus Indicus. 
 
 4. An opened spikelet of Calamagrostis Canadensis. 
 
 5. Two spikelets, one closed, one opened, of Phleum prateuse. 
 
 6. Two spikelets, one closed, one opened, of Muhlenbergia diffusa. 
 
 7. Two spikelets, one closed, one opened, of Paspalum dilatatum. 
 
 8. Two spikelets, one closed, one opened, of Paspalum laeve. 
 
 9. A spikelet of Aristida purpurea. 
 
 10. Two spikelets, one closed, one opened, of Setaria setosa. 
 
22 
 
 Fig. 11. Two spikelets, one closed, one opened, of Setaria glauca. 
 
 12. Two spikelets, one closed, one opened, of Alopecurns pratensis. 
 i;>. Two spikelets, one closed, one opened, of Holcns lanatus. 
 
 14. A spikelet of Deschampsia csBspitosa and one of its flowers. 
 
 15. A spikelet of Poa serotina and one of its flowers. 
 
 16. A spikelet of Bromns erectus and one of its flowers. 
 
 17. The male and female spikelets of Buchloe dactyloides, the former hoth 
 
 closed and opened. 
 
 PASPALUM. 
 
 In this genns the panicle does not divide into numerous slender branches as in 
 many other kinds, hut the flowers are arranged in several rows on one side of a nar- 
 row, flattened branch, called a rhachis. Each flower consists of two empty glumes 
 of equal or nearly equal length, of a dowering glume of a thickish, hard texture, the 
 edges of which overlap a palet of similar texture, and between these two are inclosed 
 the stamens and pistils. 
 
 This genus has its range principally in the Southern and Southwest- 
 ern States. The species aie very numerous, are mostly perennial, and 
 vary much in form and habit. Some are tall and ereet, some decum- 
 bent or spreading, and others have the habit of sending out runners, 
 which take root at short intervals and thus spread and form dense 
 patches. They are all relished by cattle, and some of them are consid- 
 ered valuable as pasture grasses. 
 
 Paspalum dilatatum. 
 
 This may be called the hairy-flowered Paspalum. It has been found 
 native in Virginia, Tenuessee, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and 
 Texas, and has been introduced iuto other States. It also occurs in 
 South America. It grows from 2 to 5 feet high, with numerous leaves 
 about a foot in length and one-third to one half an inch in breadth. It 
 does not creep upon the ground like the following species, but is in- 
 clined to grow in tufts, which may attain considerable size. It is rec- 
 ommended both for pasture and hay by the few who have tried it. 
 
 This species has also been called Paspalum ovatum, but the name 
 above given, having been first applied, is the proper one. 
 
 Charles X. Ely, Smith Point, southeastern Texas, says : 
 
 Paspalum dilatatum was brought to this country about twelve years ago. and planted 
 by S. B. YVallis. It is a promising grass for hay and pasture, growing best on moist 
 lands, but doing well on upland. It is easily subdued by cultivation, and is not in- 
 clined to encroach on cultivated lauds. It is best propagated by roots or sets, the 
 seed not being reliable. It is rather slow in starting, but when well rooted it spreads 
 and overcomes all other grasses. Tramping and grazing is more of an advantage to 
 it than otherwise. I think that this grass will succeed in a great variety of soils and 
 climates, but those planting it must have patience with it at first. 
 
 .Mr. Wallis, above referred to, says: 
 
 This I consider the most valuable of all the grasses with which I am acquainted : it 
 is perennial and grows here all the year round, furnishing excellent green feed for 
 stock at all seasons, except that the green blades freeze in our coldest weather per- 
 haps two or three times in a winter. It increases rapidly from seels, and also repro- 
 duces itself from suckers, which sprout from the nodes of the culm after the first crop 
 
23 
 
 of seed has ripened. I have seen those suckers remain green for six or eight weeks 
 ■iter the old stalks were as dead and dry as hay, and then, when the old stalks had 
 fallen to the ground, take root and form new plants. It grows well on all kinds of 
 dry land. Plants two or three years old form stools 12 to 18 inches across. The grass 
 has very strong roots and grows in the longest drought almost as last as when it 
 rains. 
 
 (Plate 5.) 
 
 Paspalum platycaule. 
 
 This has'sometimes been called Louisiana grass. It occurs in all the 
 Gulf States and iu the West Indies and South America. It grows flat 
 on the ground rooting, at every joint, and forming at the South a thick, 
 permanent, evergreen sod. It does well on almost any upland soil, 
 and is said to stand drought better than Bermuda grass. It usually 
 grows too short and close to the ground for hay, but for grazing it ap- 
 parently has many good properties. It may be distinguished from the 
 other Paspalums and from Bermuda grass by its flattened stems (whence 
 the uaine) and the very slender seed stalks, each bearing only two or 
 three very narrow, somewhat upright spikes. The leaves, especially on 
 the long runners, are short and blunt. 
 
 The facts of its being a perennial and seeding freely, of its doing- 
 better than any other grass on poor soil, forming a compact tuft to the 
 exclusion of other plants, and of its being easily killed by cultivation, 
 will doubtless recommend it for more extended growth. 
 
 Dr. Charles Mohr, Mobile, Ala., says : 
 
 It has taken a firm foot-hold in this section. It is perfectly hardy, prefers damp 
 localities, and surfers somewhat from long droughts. It grows best in a sandy loam, 
 rather close, compact, and damp, in exposed situations, as it does not stand shade 
 well. It stands browsing and tramping well, and is greedily eaten by all kinds of 
 stock. Its vegetation begins earlier in spring than that of Bermuda. 
 
 G. A. Frierson, Frierson's Mill, La., in the Southern Live Stock Jour- 
 nal, says : 
 
 It grows everywhere in rather low, wet, clay lands, and stands grazing as well or 
 better than Bermuda. 
 
 B. H. Brodnax, Morehouse Parish, La. : 
 
 Paspalum platycaule was first noticed here about 1870 in very small patches. Since 
 then it has spread rapidly from seed. It is not cultivated. It stands frost very well 
 when firmly rooted, staying green nearly all winter, and it stands drought splendidly. 
 It grows best on a poor quality of land high above overflow, or where water could 
 not stand on it. It is a splendid pasture grass, making a sod equal to Bermuda, but 
 it is not cut for hay. It is very easily destroyed, one plowing being sufficient to kill it. 
 
 Mr. Prentice Bailey, of Baker County, northern Florida, sends a 
 specimen of Paspalum platycaule for identification, and says of it: 
 
 On all old roads, where travel has killed the other grasses and packed the soil, it 
 covers the ground with a close, even turf; it forms such a thick turf that it is called 
 here "blanket grass." The cattle in the woods are so fond of it and keep it eaten down 
 so close, that it is difficult to find any of it more than 2 or 3 inches in height, but on 
 
24 
 
 good ground in protected places it grows to the height of several feet. It is only par- 
 tially killed through the winter. From the avidity with which it is eaten by all. 
 kinds of stock, the closeness of turf formed, its ability to resist almost any amount of 
 tramping, and its rapidity of growth I think that it is a most valuable grass for this 
 country. 
 
 Mr. F. W. Thurow, of Harris Comity, Tex., says that at present Pas- 
 palum platyeaule furnishes about five-eighths of the pasturage in south- 
 eastern Texas, forming a dense sod. Stock of all kinds seem to relish 
 it, but is not as nutritious as Bermuda grass. (Plate 6.) 
 
 Paspalum distichum. 
 
 Several species of Paspalum have received attention in the South as 
 being useful pasture grasses and very durable from their creeping and 
 rooting habit. Paspalum distichum is one of these species. It grows 
 principally in low, moist ground. Its stems and culms are mostly pros- 
 trate and running, sending up here and there a few flower-bearing 
 culms. It is found in the Southern States and Texas, thence to Cali- 
 fornia. Farther south it is found in most tropical countries. Mr. W. 
 A. Sanders, of Fresno County, Cal., writes recently as follows : 
 
 Are you aware of the value of Pasj)aliim distichum for seeding pond-holes that dry 
 up or nearly so in autumn ? Such ponds are usually spots of bare, stinking mud, but 
 when well set to this grass will yield all the way up to 80 tons (in the green state) of 
 autumn feed for stock, especially valuable for cows first, then follow with sheep till 
 every vestige is devoured. Surely it has an immense food value in such places. 
 
 (Plate 7.) 
 
 BECKMANNIA. 
 
 Beckmannia erucaeformis (Slough Grass). 
 
 This genus is closely related to Panicum and has considerable re- 
 semblance to some forms of Panicum Grus-galli. It grows abundantly 
 in the Rocky Mountain Region from California and Oregon eastward 
 as far as Iowa and Minnesota. It is found in marshy ground and in 
 sloughs, particularly in the neighborhood of streams. 
 
 It usually grows in tufts, and is of a coarse growth, the stout, roughish 
 culms rising* to about 3 feet in height; the thickish leaves are about 
 half an inch wide and 6 to 8 inches long. These, as well as the loose, 
 long sheaths, are strongly marked with numerous parallel veins. The 
 panicle is generally long and narrow, from 6 to 10 inches long, and half 
 an inch to an inch wide, composed mostly of many very short, closely- 
 set branches, which are more or less interrupted below where the 
 branches are generally longer, sometimes 2 inches long and erect. 
 
 The spikelets are crowded very closely together on the one sided 
 spikes, and each one consists of a pair of thickish, compressed, inflated, 
 boat-shaped, empty glumes, and between these, one lanceolate, acute 
 flowering glume, of thinner texture, with its still thinner palet, and the 
 stamens and styles. These are represented in plate 8, a showing an 
 enlarged spikelet, b the same expanded to show the separate parts. In 
 
25 
 
 some localities tbis grass is abundant and forms a valuable resource for 
 stock. The bottom leaves and sterile shoots are tender and much rel- 
 ished. (Plate 8.) 
 
 PANICUM. 
 
 In tliis genus the mode of inflorescence is very variable, but most of the species 
 have a spreading, much-branched panicle, the terminal branchlets of which have 
 spikelets of a single perfect llower, or in some cases with a lower male or i in per fed 
 flower also. There are two or three empty glumes, the lower one generally much 
 shorter than the others; the perfect llower has a thick, hard glume with a palet 
 similar in texture, and with the stamens and pistil inclosed between them. The 
 other imperfect flower when present has a glume similar to the empty ones. 
 
 The name is probably derived from the Latin word jpawis, bread, be- 
 cause some of the species were used, and are still used, for bread- making. 
 The species of this genus are very numerous (more than three hundred 
 on the globe), and of widely different appearance. We have about fifty 
 native species, most of which have little practical value except as adding 
 more or less to the wild forage of our woods and fields. But some 
 species, both native and foreign, are of very high agricultural value*. 
 
 Panicum maximum (True Guinea Grass). 
 
 This is a native of Africa, which has been introduced into many 
 tropical countries, and in the West Indies is extensively cultivated. 
 It has been brought into Florida and other places along the Gulf coast, 
 but is little known in the United States. It requires a long season, is 
 very susceptible to frost, and ripens seed only in the warmest part of 
 the country. It has often been confounded with Johnson grass, which 
 is very different. A sufficient point of distinction is the fact that John- 
 son grass spreads by underground stems, while Guinea grass does not, 
 but remains in bunches. 
 
 Its chief value is for hay or soiling, and it should be cut frequently 
 to prevent it becoming too hard and coarse. It grows tall and rank, 
 reaches the height of 6 or 8 feet when mature, and yields a seed much 
 resembling millet. It is not adapted to the climate of the Northern 
 States. Panicum jumentorum is a synonym. (Plate 0.) 
 
 Panicum Texanum (Texas Millet). 
 
 This grass is a native of Texas, and was first described and named 
 in 1866 by Prof. S. B. Buckley, in his preliminary report of the "Geo- 
 graphical and Agricultural Survey of Texas." It is frequently called 
 Colorado grass, from its abundance along the Colorado River in that 
 State. In some localities it is known as river grass • in others as goose 
 grass, from its being supposed to have been introduced by wild geese. 
 In southern Texas it is sometimes called buffalo grass, and in Fayette 
 County it is known as Austin grass from the fact that it was first util- 
 ized as hay near Austin. 
 
 The most numerous and 'favorable reports regarding it are from 
 Lampasas, Burnet, and Travis Counties, along the Colorado River, and 
 
26 
 
 southward through the central part of the State. From no grass, so 
 little known, have more favorable reports been received, especially 
 from the section in which it is most abundant. It is but little known 
 outside of Texas. Of the thirty five valuable reports in regard to it, 
 all but six were from that State, and most of them from the region 
 above indicated. 
 
 The grass is an annual, growing usually from 2 to 4 feet high, and is 
 especially valuable for hay. It prefers rich alluvial soils, but stands 
 drought well, though on dry uplands its yield is much reduced. The 
 plant is furnished with an abundance of rather short and broad leaves, 
 and the stems, which are rather weak, are often produced in consider- 
 able number from a single root, and where the growth is rank are in- 
 clined 1o be decumbent at the base. It is valuable for all purposes for 
 which the ordinary millets are used, and should be tried throughout 
 the South. In Texas, where most largely grown, it generally over- 
 comes other grasses and weeds; but in some of the other Southern 
 States crab grass and weeds have interfered with its growth. It has 
 not been much cultivated in the Northern States, but is deserving of a 
 trial ; as with a good season it will probably be more productive than, 
 and of superior quality to, common Hungarian millet. (Plate 10.) 
 
 Panicum proliferum, var. geniculatuni. 
 
 This variety occurs in the Southern States, where it is sometimes 
 called u sprouting crab grass. " It is an annual, growing in low, moist 
 ground. The stems are first erect, then become decumbent and spread- 
 ing, frequently attaining a length of G or 7 feet, bent and rooting at the 
 lower joiuts. It has much the same habit as P. Te.canum, but the stems 
 are smooth and more flattened; the leaves also are smoother and longer. 
 The stems are sometimes nearly an inch thick at the base and very suc- 
 culent. The main stem is terminated by a diffuse panicle sometimes 
 2 feet long. 
 
 Dr. Charles Mohr, of Mobile, says of it : 
 
 In damp, grassy places it prefers rich ground throughout the coast region. It com- 
 mences to vegetate vigorously in the hottest part of the summer, throwing out 
 numerous shoots from the joints, forming large-branched bushes. The foliage is rich 
 and tender; and the succulent, thick stems are sweet and juicy. After cutting, it 
 throws out numerous sprouts from the lower joints, which grow rapidly, so as to 
 allow repeated cuttings until frost. It is through all stages of its growth much rel- 
 ished by horses and cattle. 
 
 (Plate 11.) 
 
 Panicum barbinode (Para Grass). 
 
 This species has been introduced from South America in some locali- 
 ties of the Southern States. Id Cuba it is cultivated and highly valued 
 for its prolific growth and nutritive properties. It is not adapted to 
 culture in the Northern States. It is a coarse, reed-like grass, that 
 looks as if it should grow in the water; Vjut it makes a heavy growth 
 on the high pine ridges of Florida. (Plate 12.) 
 
27 
 
 Panicum miliaceum. 
 
 This is the millet grass of India, or at least one of the Indian millets. 
 It has, in Asia, been cultivated for ages, and is, in many parts, an 
 important article in the food supply of the natives. It is also cultivated 
 in Egypt, Turkey, and Southern Europe. It has been cultivated to a 
 limited extent in this country for forage, and will thrive and ripen in 
 the Xorthern as well as the Southern States. 
 
 Mr. Charles L. Flint says : 
 
 Millet is one of the best crops we have for cutting and feeding green for soiling 
 purposes, since its yield is large, its luxuriant leaves juicy and tender and much 
 relished by milch cows and other stock. The seed is rich in nutritive qualities, but 
 it is very seldom ground or used for flour, though it is said to exceed all other kinds 
 of meal or flonr in nutritive elements. An acre well cultivated will yield from 60 
 to 70 bushels of seed. Cut in the blossoms, as it should be for t'et ding to cuttle, the 
 seed is comparatively valueless. If allowed to ripen its seed, the stalk is no more # 
 nutritious, probably, than oat straw, it is well adapted to culture in dry region*. 
 
 (riate 13.) 
 Panicum Crus-galli (Barnyard Grass). 
 
 This is an annual grass, with. thick, stout culms usually from 2 to 4 
 feet high. In the Southern States it is often employed, and is consid- 
 ered a valuable grass. Professor Phtires, of Mississippi, says: 
 
 In that and some other States it is mowed annually, and is said sometimes to fur- 
 nish four or five tons of hay per acre. It annually reseeds the ground and requires 
 no cultivation or other care, save protection from stock and the labor of harvesting. 
 In one county in Mississippi hundreds of acres are annually mowed on single farms. 
 Cows and horses are very fond of it whether green or dry. 
 
 In the Northern States it is seldom employed. (Plate 14.) 
 
 Panicum sanguinale (Crab Grass). 
 
 This is an annual grass, which, although a native of the Old Worla, 
 has become spread over most parts of this country, and indeed over all 
 tropical countries. It is the most common crab grass of the Southern 
 States. It occurs in cultivated and waste grounds, and grows very 
 rapidly during the hot summer months. The culms usually rise to the 
 height of 2 or 3 feet, and at the summit have from three to six slender 
 flower spikes, each from 4 to 6 inches long. The culms are bent at the 
 lower joints, where they frequently take root. At the Xew Orleans 
 Exposition there were specimens of this grass 5 feet 10 inches long. 
 
 Professor Killebrew, of Tennessee, says : 
 
 It is a fine pasture grass ; although it has but few base leaves and forms no sward, 
 yet it sends out numerous stems or branches at the base. It serves a most useful 
 purpose in stock husbandry. It fills all our corn-fields and many persons pull it out, 
 which is a tedious process. It makes a sweet hay, and horses are exceedingly fond of 
 it, leaving the best hay to eat it. 
 
 Professor Phares, of Mississippi, says that the corn and cotton fields 
 are often so overrun with it that The hay which might be secured would 
 be more valuable than the original crop. It is sometimes mowed from 
 between the rows, sometimes cut across the ridges, with the corn. 
 
28 
 
 Although so much esteemed in the South, it is considered a pest in 
 the Northern States. (Plate 15.) 
 
 Panicum virgatum (Tall Panic Grass ; Switch Grass). 
 
 A tall perennial grass, 3 to 5 feet high, growing mostly in clumps in 
 moist or even in dry, sandy soil, very common on the sea-coast, and 
 also in the interior to the base of the Rocky Mountains. This is a good 
 and prolific grass if cut when young ; when ripe it becomes harsh and 
 unpalatable. It forms a large constituent of the native grasses of the 
 prairies, particularly in moist localities. It is said to be cultivated in 
 some parts of Colorado, and with very satisfactory results. (Plate 10.) 
 Panicum agrostoides. (Redtop Panicum.) 
 
 This is a perennial grass, commonly growing in large clumps in wet 
 meadows or on the muddy margins of lakes and rivers. It grows 4 to 
 G feet high, is erect in habit, and developes its reddish panicles from 
 several of the joints as well as at the apex. The stem is somewhat 
 flattened and very smooth, as are the sheaths; the leaves are 1 to 2 
 feet long, about half an inch wide, and somewhat rough on the margins 
 and midrib. The terminal panicle is 6 to 12 inches long, at first some- 
 what close, but becoming quite open and diffuse. The lateral panicles 
 are shorter and partly inclosed by the sheath at the base. The branches 
 of the panicle are mostly 1 or 2 inches long and rather densely flowered 
 nearly to the base. The spikelets are a little more than a line long on 
 very short pedicels, mostly racemose on one side of the branches, oblong, 
 acute, the lower empty glume ovate, acute, half as long as the upper 
 one, which is rather long-pointed and five-nerved; the lower or sterile 
 flower is a little shorter than the longer glume and a little shorter than 
 the perfect flower, which is oblong, obtuse, and under a lens shows a 
 few beards at the apex. This grass produces a large amount of foliage, 
 which makes fair hay if cut before flowering time; if left later it con- 
 tains too many wiry stalks. It may be utilized as a hay crop in low 
 grounds, but it is doubtful if it can be made productive on dry, tillable 
 land. (Plate 17.) 
 Panicum anceps. (Two-edged Panic Grass.) 
 
 A perennial grass, when well developed resembling the preceding, but 
 of a smaller, lighter growth, generally found in moist clay soil. It has a 
 flattish erect stem, 2 to 3 feet high, with smooth leaves a foot or more 
 long, of a bluish-green color, and mostly near the base of the stem. The 
 root- stock is thick, scaly, and creeping near the surface of the ground. 
 The panicle is 6 to 12 inches long, with short branches near the top, the 
 lateral brauches 3 to inches long, rather distant, erect or somewhat 
 spreading. Usually there are also several smaller lateral panicles from 
 the upper joints of the culm. The spikelets are about a line and a half 
 long, a little longer than those of Panicum agrostoides, oblong, lanceo- 
 late, a little curved, and sessile, or on very short pedicels. The lower 
 empty glume is broadly ovate, and about half as loug as the five to 
 
29 
 
 seven-nerved upper one. The lower glume of the sterile flower is as 
 long as the upper empty glume, and much like it in texture 1 , while the 
 palet is thin, obtuse, and much shorter. The perfect flower is one third 
 shorter than the upper empty glume, oblong; the flowering glume and 
 its palet, as in most species of Panicum, is thick and of hard texture. 
 This can not be considered a valuable grass, but it frequently occurs 
 in neglected and poor land in sufficient quantity to afford considerable 
 grazing for stock. It makes its growth late in the season, usually 
 reaching the flowering state in August. Dr. Mohr, of Mobile, remarks 
 that it is not muc'h relished by stock, being rather harsh and dry. 
 Professor P hares says : 
 
 It forms strongly rooted spreading clumps, often completely carpeting the ground 
 with pretty, glossy, light-green foliage. 
 
 (Plate 18.) 
 
 SETARIA. 
 
 In this genus the flowers are constructed as in the Panicums, but they are arranged 
 in narrow, more or less cylindrical spikes. Below the spikelets are several bristles, 
 generally longer than the spikelets, which remain on the spike after the fall of the 
 flowers. 
 
 Setaria Italica (Hungarian Grass; German Millet). 
 
 This grass is supposed to be a native of the East Indies, but it has 
 been extensively introduced into most civilized countries. It has long 
 been cultivated as a fodder grass both in Europe and in this country. 
 It is an annual grass of strong, rank growth, the culms erect, 2 to 3 feet 
 high, with numerous long and broad leaves, and a terminal, spike-like, 
 nodding panicle, 4 to G inches long, and often an inch or more in diam- 
 eter. The varieties and forms of this grass differ greatly, so much so 
 that some of them have been considered different species; but the gen- 
 eral opinion of botanists is that they are all varying forms of the same 
 species, dependent upon the character of the soil, thickness of seeding, 
 moisture or dryness, and time of sowing. It owes its value as a fodder 
 plant to the abundance of its foliage, and to the large quantity of seed 
 produced. In some instances objection has been made to this grass on 
 account of the bristles which surround the seed, and which have been said 
 to penetrate the stomachs of cattle so as to cause inflammation and death. 
 But it is plain that this opinion is not generally held, as the cultivation 
 of the grass is widely extended and everywhere recommended. 
 
 For forage it should be cut as soon as it blooms, when, of course, it is 
 worth nothing for seed ; but it is most valuable for forage and exhausts 
 the land much less. If left for the seeds to mature they are very abun- 
 dant and rich feed, but the stems are worthless, while the soil is more 
 damaged. 
 
 Professor Phares says : 
 
 The matured stems are very hard, indigestible, and injurious, and the ripe seeds 
 will founder more promptly than corn, and sometimes produee diabetes if moldy and 
 too freely used. If cut at the right stage the whole plant is safe aud very valuable 
 
30 
 
 forage. On good soil, if the ground be moist, it will be ready for mowing in sixty 
 days from seeding, and produce from 2 to 4 tons of hay per acre. It is folly to sow 
 it on poor land. 
 
 (Plate 19.) 
 Setaria glauca and Setaria viridis. 
 
 These two kinds, called pigeon grass, are very common in cultivated 
 fields, especially among stubble after the cutting of grain. They are as 
 nutritious as Hungarian grass but not so productive. (Plate 20.) 
 
 PENNISETUM. 
 
 The flowers in this genus are arranged in close spikes much like those of Setaria, 
 but the bristles at the base of the spikelets fall off with the spikelets, instead of re- 
 maining attached to the rhachis. 
 Pemiisetum spicatum (Penicillaria spicata) (Pearl Millet; Cat-tail Millet; Egyptian 
 
 Millet). 
 
 This is supposed to be a native of Africa, but has been known from 
 time immemorial in cultivation in India, Arabia, and Egypt. 
 
 It is an annual grass of luxuriant growth, frequently reaching 6 or 
 8 feet in height, with long, broad leaves, and a stout, solid culm ter- 
 minated with a thick, erect spike, b' to 10 inches long, and three-quarters 
 of an inch in thickness, having a resemblance to the heads or spikes 
 of the common cat-tail (Typha latifolia). The stalks are freely pro- 
 ductive of suckers which furnish a large amount of succulent, sweet 
 leaves. 
 
 Professor Phares states: 
 
 It has been grown to some extent for twenty-five years in many parts of the 
 Southern States, more largely since 1865. 
 
 No crop will pay better or yield more forage than this on very rich, highly fertilized 
 land. On such land it has been cut on an average every forty-five days, from the 
 time of planting till frost, with a reported product of 80 or 100 tons of green forage, 
 or from 16 to 20 tons of dry hay. When it grows luxuriantly it is impossible to cure 
 it for hay on the ground upon which it is grown ; so that it would be impracticable 
 to make hay of a large field of it sown solid. Hence it must be sown in small patches 
 or in beds, with spaces between upon which to spread it when cut This difficulty 
 would occur only on rich and highly manured land. Any one can have the crop as 
 light as he chooses by sowing on poorly prepared or on exhausted land. 
 
 It is best adapted for cultivation in the South, where it will ripen 
 seeds, but in a favorable season it may produce a large amount of for- 
 age, in the Northern States. 
 
 TRIFSACTJM, 
 
 Tripsacum dactyloides (Gaina Grass). 
 
 A tall, stout, perennial grass, growing sparingly at the North, more 
 common southward and in the Western States. The flowers are in 
 spikes, generally from one to three at the top of the culm or from side 
 shoots. The spikes are 2 to 4 inches long, the male flowers by them- 
 selves on the upper part, and the female flowers on the lower part. 
 The lower flowers mature seeds in short joints, which break apart at 
 
31 
 
 maturity. Professor Phares says it was formerly found widely diffused 
 through the Southern States, from the sea-shore to the mountains. It 
 is uow seldom seen, having been destroyed by cattle. 
 Mr Howard, of South Carolina, says of it: 
 
 This is a native of the South, from tho mountains to the coast The seed stem runs 
 up tc the height of 5 to 7 feet. The seeds break off from the stem as if from a joint, a 
 single seed at a time. The leaves resemble those of corn. When cut before the seed 
 stems shoot up they make a coarse but nutritious hay. It may be cut three or four 
 times during the season. The quantity of forage which can be made from it is enor- 
 mous. Both cattle and horses are fond of the hay. The roots are almost as large and 
 strong as cane roots. It would require a. team of four to six oxen to plow it up. It 
 can. however, be easily killed by close grazing, and the mass of dead roots would 
 certainly enrich the land. As the seeds of this grass vegetate with uncertainty, it is 
 usually propagated by setting out slips of the roots about 2 feet apart each way. 
 On rich land the tussocks will soon meet. In the absence of the finer hay grasses 
 this will bo found an abundant and excellent substitute. The hay made from it is 
 very like corn fodder, is quite equal to it in value, and may be saved at a tithe of 
 the expense. « 
 
 (Plate 21.) 
 
 EUCHLAENA. 
 
 Euchlaena luxurians (Teosinte). 
 
 This grass is allied to and somewhat resembles Indian eorn. Like it, 
 it has the male flowers in a tassel at the top of the stalk, and the fertile 
 ones arranged in slender spikes mostly concealed from view by the loose 
 husk or sheath in which they are contained. These husks come from 
 nearly every joint. 
 
 Prof. Asa Gray, in the American Agriculturist for August, 1880, 
 speakiug of this plant, writes : 
 
 The director of the botanic garden and Government plantations at Adelaide, South- 
 ern Australia, reports favorably of this strong-growing, corn-like forage plant, the 
 Euchlcena luxurians; that the prevailing dryness did not injure the plants, which 
 preserved their healthy green, while the blades of the other grasses suffered materially. 
 The habit of throwing out young shoots is remarkable, sixty or eighty rising to a 
 height of 5 to 6 feet. Further north, at Palmerston (nearer the equator), in the course 
 of five or six months the plant reached the height of 10 to 14 feet, and the steins on 
 one plant numbered fifty-six. The plants, after mowing down, grew again several 
 feet in a few days. The cattle delight in it in a fresh state, also when dry. Undoubt- 
 edly there is not a more prolific forage plant known ; but, as it is essentially tropic 
 in its habits, this luxuriant growth is found in tropical or subtropical climates. The 
 chief drawback to its culture with us will be that the ripening of the seed crop will 
 be problematical, as early frosts will kill the plant. To make the teosinte a most 
 useful plant in Texas, and along our whole Southern border, the one thing needful is 
 to develop early flowering varieties so as to get seed before frost. And this could be 
 done, without doubt, if some one in Texas or Florida would set about i f . What it has 
 taken ages to do in the case of Indian corn, in an unconscious way, might be mainly 
 done in a human life-time by rightly directed care and vigorous selection. Who is the 
 man who is going to make millions of blades of grass grow where none of any account 
 ever grew before ? 
 
 Seeds of this semi-tropical forage plant were distributed by the De- 
 partment in the spring of 1886 and again in 1887. The plant consider- 
 
32 
 
 ably resembles Indian corn, bat is more Blender, gives off suckers more 
 abundantly, and produces its seeds, a few together, in small tufts of 
 husks instead of in ears. Bach seed is inclosed by the peculiar hardened 
 outer glumes, which would probably make it more difficult to digest 
 than corn. The plant has not yet been extensively tried, owing to the 
 difficulty of obtaining seed, which it was necessary to import, and 
 which was therefore expensive and liable to be of poor quality. Expe- 
 rience has shown, however, that it will ripen iu southern Florida, and 
 in a few other favorable localities in the United States. Professor 
 Phares, of Mississippi, believes, from instances that have come under his 
 notice, that the seed may be successfully grown in some locations in the 
 southern portion of that State, and over a considerable part of south- 
 eastern Louisiana, and that in all parts of the Gulf States, even where 
 it does not mature, it is destined to become a most valuable forage 
 plant. It is probable that by selection and continued trial it may be 
 made to ripen where it now does not. 
 J. C. Xeal, Archer, northern Florida: 
 
 Often tried, and with much fertilizer makes a tremendous growth, giving a large 
 amount of good forage, easily dried, and available. The seeds 1 received from the 
 Department of Agriculture last year were deficient in vitality, and hut few grew, hut 
 they showed that with good seed aud care the teosinte would he a valuable forage 
 plant. If will not ripen seed I have tried to ripen it for ten years and failed. 
 
 J. G. Knapp, Limona, southern Florida: 
 
 Great difficulty has been experienced in obtaining live seed of this most valuable 
 fodder plant, seed obtained from seedsmen, having been imported from Honduras, 
 being too old to germinate. But during the past season a neighbor of mine has suc- 
 ceeded in obtaining a few seeds which grew, and his plants have matured their - 
 all of which will be planted the present year. Seed has also been matured at Fort 
 Meade, in Polk County. Thus the question can be considered as settled, so far as 
 this locality is concerned, that teosinte will mature its seed, aud the country is 
 placed in possession of the best soiling and fodder plant known to the agriculturists 
 of the world. It endures heat, drought, and rains as well as sorghum aud better 
 than corn, and may be cured for hay. 
 
 Dr. Charles Mohr, Mobile, Ala. : 
 
 This tropical grass does not ripen its seeds in this latitude : it scarcely unfolds 
 its blossoms before the advent of the first frost. It is very tender, being easily af- 
 fected by frost or drought. During a cold spring it is difficult to secure a good 
 stand, and it is only after warm weather has fairly set iu that it begins to make a 
 rapid growth, affording three cuttings and over of rich fodder on well manured 
 ground in a season of genial showers. It is too succulent to be easily cured for hay. 
 On that account aud from the difficulty in securing a good stand and from the neces- 
 sity of procuring each season a supply of seed from abroad, this grass has not found 
 tin' favor with the cultivators of this section with which it is held in the subtropical 
 zone. 
 
 J. S. Newman, Director Experiment Station, Auburn, Ala.: 
 
 Teosinte was cultivated ou our experiment grounds last season with very satisfac- 
 tory results. It tillers like cat-tail millet, but makes a much more luxuriant growth. 
 It responds promptly and vigorously under the knife, and may be repeatedly cut dur- 
 
33 
 
 ing spring and summer. I( docs not, however, withstand drought as well as millo 
 maize or kailir corn, and it died completely during our seventy-five days of drought 
 last fall. I have a few seeds which were matured on the grounds of Mr. George W. 
 Benson, in the open air, at Marietta, Ga. He ripened seeds two years ago on a few 
 plants which were forced in early spring and transplanted to the open ground. Last 
 year this seed was planted in the open ground, and produced the plants which ma- 
 tured the seed which I have. He seems thus to have succeeded in acclimating the 
 plant, which is therefore likely to prove a valuable acquisition. 
 
 (Plate 22.) 
 
 ZIZANIA. 
 
 Zizania aquatica (Wild Kice; Indian Rice). 
 
 Its ordinary growth is from 5 to 10 feet high, with a thick, spongy stem, and abnn- 
 dant long and broad leaves. The panicle is pyramidal in shape, 1 to 2 feet long, and 
 widely branching below. The upper branches aro rather appressed and contain the 
 fertile flowers, while the lower branches contain only statu inate ones. The spikelets 
 are oue-llowered, each with one pair of external husks or scales, which are by some 
 botanists called glnmes, and by others called palets. These hnsks or glumes in the 
 fertile tlower are nearly or quite au inch long, with an awn or beard as long, or twice 
 as long. The grain inclosed between them is half an inch long, slender and cylin- 
 drical. The glumes of the stamiuate flowers are about half an inch long and without 
 awns, each flower containing six stamens. These flowers fall off soon after they ex- 
 pand. The fertile flowers also drop very readily as soou as the grain is ripened. 
 
 This is botairicall y related to the common commercial rice ( Oryza sativa) 
 but is very different in general appearance. It is widely diffused over 
 North America, and is found in Eastern Siberia and Japan. It grows 
 on the muddy banks of rivers and lakes, both near the sea and far in- 
 land, sometimes in water 10 feet or more deep, forming patches or mead- 
 ows covering many acres or extending for miles. 
 
 The grass abounds in the small lakes of Minnesota and the "North- 
 west, and is there gathered by the Indians for food. The husk is re- 
 moved by scorching with fire. It is a very palatable and nutritious 
 grain. Some attempts have been made to cultivate the grass, but the 
 readiness of the seed to drop must interfere with a successful result. 
 
 Near the sea coast multitudes of reed-birds resort to the marshes, 
 where it grows, and fatten upon the grain. The culms are sweet and 
 nutritious, and cattle are said to be very fond of the grass. It is not 
 adapted to culture on any ordinary farming land, as*it will live only 
 in the presence of water. (Plate 23.) 
 
 LEERSIA. 
 
 The flowers grow iu spreading panicles. The spikelets are sessile, on short, one- 
 sided branches or spikes. The spikelets are one-flowered, possessing but two scales, 
 which may be called glumes or palets, which are strongly compressed, without awns, 
 bristly ciliate on the keels, the lower one broader and inclosing the seed. Stamens 
 one to six; stigmas two ; grain flattened. 
 
 A genus of rough-leaved grasses growing for the most part iu marshy 
 or moist ground throughout nearly all parts o*' the United States. There 
 are about live species, two of which are confined to the Southern States; 
 3594 GR 3 
 
34 
 
 tbe others, at least two of them, are very common, though rarely occur- 
 ring in great quantity. They are sometimes cut for hay. They cau 
 not be recommended for culture, but may be utilized wherever the.Y 
 grow spon tan eonsly. 
 
 Leersia oryzoides (White Grass ; Cut Grass; False Rice). 
 
 This is a handsome grass, the culms decumbent. It is commouly 
 called rice grass, from its strong resemblance to common rice. The 
 leaves are pale green, frequently a foot or more long, prominently veined 
 below, very rough on the margins and ou the sheaths. The panicle is 
 about 1 foot long, diffusely branched, the branches mostly in twos, and 
 an inch or two distant. The spikelets are very flat, about 2 lines long, 
 nearly sessile, and borne mostly towards the ends of the long branches. 
 The leaves are so rough on the margins as readily to cut the hand if 
 roughly drawn through it. 
 
 Leersia Virginica (Small-flowered White Grass). 
 
 In this species the panicle is much smaller and narrower, and the 
 branches appressed. The spikelets are smaller, the glumes narrower 
 and smoother than in the first. (Plate 24.) 
 
 Leersia hexandra. 
 
 This species occurs in wet ground on the Atlantic and Gulf coast. It 
 also occurs in other tropical and semi tropical countries. It might be 
 utilized iu this country, if it becomes necessary, as it now is in some 
 other countries. In Manilla, one of the Philippine Islands (as we learn 
 from the United States consul at that place), this species is cultivated 
 as food for horses aud cattle. It is treated like rice, being transplanted 
 to wet and previously plowed meadows. The local name there is va- 
 cate. 
 
 HILARIA. 
 
 Hilaria Jamesii (Gietta Grass). 
 
 This is one of the characteristic grasses of the arid districts of Texas, 
 New Mexico, and Arizona, where it is sometimes called black grama. 
 It is found sparingly also in Colorado and Utah. There are several 
 other species growing in the same region, in some places quite abun- 
 dantly. They are relished by cattle, and are considered as next iu value 
 to grama grass. (Plate 25.) 
 
 ANDROPOGON. 
 
 This genus is quite largely developed in the United States. They are 
 perennial grasses, mostly tall, and with rough, wiry stems. Some of 
 them occur in nearly all parts of the country from New England to 
 Florida and west to Arizona. They are most abundant, however, in 
 the Southern States, where they have been employed for permanent 
 pastures. When they occur in quantity they can be utilized, but to be 
 of value they should be kept from sending up their strong stems, as 
 these are universally rejected by cattle and horses, Most of the species 
 
 
35 
 
 are not to be recommended for cultivation, but some have been praised 
 in the South as furnishing, with proper management, permanent and 
 reliable pastures. 
 
 Andropogon Virginicus and Aiidropogon scoparius (Broom Sedge). 
 
 Andropogon Virginicns and A, scaparivs are the ones commonly em- 
 ployed in this way. 
 
 Dr. Charles Mohr, of Mobile, says that Andropogon ncoparius grows 
 extensively in old fields, and in the dry, sandy soil of the pine woods. 
 
 Much despised as it is as a troublesome weed, it has its good qualities, which en- 
 title it to a more charitable consideration. In the dry pine woods it contributes, 
 while green and tender, a large share to the sustenance of the stock. 
 
 It is common on the Western prairies, growing in dense tufts, and is 
 known under the names of wire grass and bunch grafts. It is, in most 
 places, a constituent of prairie hay, and it makes good fodder if cut 
 early. (Plates 2Q and 27.) 
 
 Andropogon macrourus. 
 
 Andropogon macrourus, or heavy-topped broom grass, is frequent near 
 the coast, from New Jersey to Florida, and thence west to Texas, and 
 even to southern California. It has a stout culm, 3 to 4 feet high, with 
 large, leafy clusters of flowers near the top. (Plate 28.) 
 
 Aiidropo goa furee atus. (X- f '^AW^tA- (HAA- 
 
 This is the tallest of our species. It grows erect to the height of 5 
 or 6 feet, in rocky or hilly ground; or at the West it is abundant on the 
 native prairies, where it is frequently called blue stem. The leaves are 
 long aud frequently somewhat hairy on the sheaths and margins. The 
 spikes are in small clusters of from three to six, terminating the stalk, 
 and also with several clusters from the side branches. The spikes are 
 usually 2 to 3 inches long, rather rigid, and contain ten to twenty flow- 
 ers each. At each joint there is one sessile, perfect flower, and one 
 stalked one, which is staminate only ; otherwise it is nearly like the fer- 
 tile one. The outer glumes are about four lines long, the upper one 
 tipped wij;h a short, stiff awn. 
 
 This species, as above stated, is abundant on the prairies of the West, 
 where it is one of the principal hay grasses of the country, and is ex- 
 tensively cut and cured for winter use. (Plate 29.) 
 
 Andropogon Hallii. 
 
 This species much resembles the preceding, but the culms are stouter, 
 the leaves thicker and more succulent, the flower spikes are larger, and 
 the flowers generally more hairy. It prevails in very sandy soil, and 
 is most frequent in western Kansas and in Colorado, Nebraska, and 
 northward along the Missouri River. The leaves and stems are com- 
 monly of a light, bluish-green color. It will probably be well adapted 
 to light, sandy soils. 
 
36 
 
 CHRYSOPOGON. 
 
 Chrysopogon nutans (Sorghum nutans) (Wild Oats). 
 
 The stalks are 4 to 6 feet high, smooth, hollow, straight, and having at the top a 
 narrow panicle, G to 12 inches long, of handsome straw-colored or brownish flowers, 
 which is gracefully drooping at the top. The spikelets are at the ends of the slender 
 branches of the loose panicle, generally of a yellowish color. At the base of each of 
 the spikelets are two (one on each side) short, feathery pedicels: the flowers which 
 they are supposed to have been made to support have entirely disappeared. The 
 outer glumes are about three lines long, both alike, lanceolate, obtusish, coriaceous, 
 live to seven-nerved, the lower one sparsely hairy, and with hairs at the base and on 
 the stalk below. 
 
 This is a tall, perennial grass, having a wide range over all the country 
 east of the Bocky Mountains. It grows rather sparsely and forms a 
 thin bed of grass. 
 
 It is a nutritious grass, but should be cut early, as at full maturity 
 the stems are coarse and are rejected by cattle. (Plate 30.) 
 
 SORGHUM. 
 
 In this genus the spikelets are much as in Clirysopogon and A ndrapo- 
 gon, differing chiefly in habit and in the glumes of the fertile spikelets 
 becoming hardened after flowering. 
 
 There are several species. 
 
 Sorghum halepense (Johnson Grass; Mean's Grass). 
 
 This grass is a native of Northern Africa and the country about the 
 Mediterranean Sea. 
 
 It was introduced into cultivation in this country more than fifty 
 years ago, and has recently attracted renewed attention, especially in 
 the Southern States. The name Johnson grass, which is the one now 
 most generally adopted in this country, originated from William John- 
 son, of Alabama, who introduced the grass into that State from South 
 Carolina about the year 1840. It had previously been known as Mean's 
 grass, and that name is still occasionally used, It has also been largely 
 grown under the name of Guinea grass, but that name should be re- 
 stricted to Panic urn maximum, described in another part of this bulletin. 
 It has been called Egyptian grass, Green Valley grass, Cuba grass, Al- 
 abama Guinea grass, Australian millet, and Morocco millet. In Cali- 
 fornia it is best known as evergreen millet or Arabian evergreen mil- 
 let. There seems to be good evidence that some of these names have 
 been used at times in order to sell the seed as a new kind at an un- 
 reasonably high price. Johnson grass seeds abundantly, and the seed 
 may be obtained of nearly all seedsmen under that name. 
 
 This grass is best adapted to warm climates, and has proved most 
 valuable on warm, dry soils in the Southern States. It has been tested 
 quite generally throughout the- country, and is often recommended for 
 cultivation even in the North, but there its growth is much smaller than 
 
37 
 
 at the South, and in severe winters it is killed outright It is occasion- 
 ally more or less winter-killed as far south as the northern portion of 
 Texas and Alabama. Its chief value is for bay, in regions where other 
 grasses fail on account of drought. If cut early the hayjs of good 
 quality, and several cuttiugs may be made in the season ; but if the 
 cutting is delayed until the stalks are well grown the hay is so coarse 
 and hard that stock do not eat it readily. The seed may be sown at 
 any time when the soil is warm and not too dry. Failures often occur 
 from sowing the seed too early. If there is danger that the soil should 
 dry out before the seed can germinate, soaking the seed may be resorted 
 to with good results.' Thick seeding gives a heavier yield and a better 
 quality of hay. From 1 to 2 bushels are usually sown per acre, accord- 
 ing to the cleanness of the seed. In case of failure to get a good stand 
 the crop may be allowed to go to seed the first year, after which the 
 vacant places will be found to be self-seeded. On small patches in such 
 cases the ground is sometimes plowed up and the underground stems 
 scattered along in the furrows over the vacant spots. In most localities 
 it is generally considered desirable to plow the land set in Johnson 
 grass about every third year; otherwise the root stocks become matted 
 near the surface, and the crop is more affected by drought. Plowing 
 causes it to grow more thickly and vigorously. If desired, a large por- 
 tion of the root stocks may be removed at the time of plowing without 
 injuring the stand. The greatest objection to Johnson grass is the diffi- 
 culty of eradicating it. Care should be taken not to introduce it into 
 fields intended for cultivation. It spreads rapidly, both by the root 
 and by seed, and is apt to enter fields where it is not wanted. On stock- 
 farms this feature is not so objectionable as elsewhere. The grass is 
 not well adapted to pasture, and close pasturing is one of the means of 
 getting rid of it. Its succulent, subterranean stems are usually well 
 liked .by hogs after they have become accustomed to them, and by 
 keeping hogs closely confined upon it, it may be eradicated. Another 
 method of eradication which is recommended is to plow in the fall, so 
 as to expose it to the action of frost. In the South, where the grass is 
 most largely grown, this is only partially successful. 
 
 There has been much discussion in the Southern papers respecting 
 this grass, some considering it a great blessing, others a curse, the fact 
 being that it is a blessing where a permanent grass is desired, and a 
 great pest in land desired for general cultivation. It is probably too 
 tender for the Northern States, but needs further trial. (Plate 31.) 
 
 Sorghum vulgare. 
 
 This name as at present applied includes several varieties quite dif- 
 ferent in appearance, as the variety saccharatum, or ordinary sugar 
 sorghum, millo maize, Kaffir corn, dourra, and broom corn. The 
 broom corn variety we need not discuss here. Some of the other vari- 
 
38 
 
 eties have been cultivated in various sections, and deserve especial 
 attention in certaiu localities. 
 
 This plant has been widely discussed within the last few years in the 
 agricultural press, and is valued by many who have grown it as a fod- 
 der plant in the South. There is considerable difference of opinion, 
 however, as to its relative value as compared with the other sorghums 
 and Indian corn. The following from among the replies received are 
 given as additional evidence in regard to it: 
 
 J. S. Newman, Director Experiment Station, Agricultural and Me- 
 chanical College, Auburn, Ala. : 
 
 The popularity of this plant is waning, it having no special advantages over com- 
 mon com, cat-tail millet, or common sorghum. 
 
 As evidence that millo maize has undergone acclimation, I will add 
 that plants grown from seed freshly imported from South America do 
 not mature seeds here. 
 
 Dr. Charles Mohr, Mobile, Ala. : 
 
 In the last three seasons this has been grown successfully in this vicinity by several 
 parties. It ripens its seed before the advent of frost, which kills the plants to the 
 roots. It does very well in the light soils of the coast plain, and perhaps every- 
 where in the pine region where there is a clay foundation. The growth of this grass 
 during the early part of the season is much retarded by the chilly nights and spells 
 of continued cold weather. It is only after the advent of settled warm weather that 
 it enters upon its period of more vigorous growth. 
 
 Four cuttings may be taken during the season. Plants intended fur seed are left 
 undisturbed, and grow to a height of 18 or 20 feet, ripening in October. Great 
 trouble in securing the seed is caused by the ravages of numerous birds. 
 
 The fodder obtained from the repeated cuttings, on account of its succulence, is 
 difficult to cure, and in damp weather almost impossible. To cure dry fodder for 
 winter use the plants are, after the second cutting, left to grow until towards the 
 end of the season, when, having attained a height of 12 to 15 feet, and before opening 
 their flowers, the stalks are cut and placed on end in small shocks. After being suf- 
 ficiently dried they are placed upright under an airy shed or barn, protected from 
 the damp. In this way sufficient ventilation is secured to prevent heating and mold- 
 ing, and to keep the fodder sweet and palatable. The fodder is said to be preferred 
 by all kinds of live stock to any other fodder or hay. As to its nutritious value as 
 compared with corn fodder opinions differ. The seeds are planted in spring in beds, 
 which can be covered over during cool nights, and from these are transferred, when 
 8 to 10 inches in height, to the field, and thereafter treated in the same manner as 
 corn. 
 
 Florida Farm and Fruit-Growers: 
 
 Hed Millo Maize. — It stands drought and does not blow down easily, but it does 
 not make as rank a growth as yellow millo maize. The seed is smaller than any of 
 the other sorghums, and makes a first-class chicken-feed. 
 
 PHALARIS. 
 
 Phalaris arundinacea (TCeed Canary Grass). 
 
 A perennial grass, with strong, creeping rhizomes, growing from 2 to 
 5 feet high, usually in low or wet ground. It ranges from New England 
 and New York westward to Oregon, and northward to Canada, also in 
 
39 
 
 ♦ 
 
 the mountainous parts of Pennsylvania and Virginia. It is common 
 
 also in the north of Europe. The eulin is stout, smooth, and leafy; 
 the leaves are mostly from G to 10 inches long ami about half an inch 
 wide, the upper ones shorter. 
 
 The well known ribbon grass of the garden is a variety of this grass, 
 and will, it is said, easily revert to the normal type. In mountainous 
 regions it may be worth trial for meadows. (Plate 32.) 
 
 Phalaris intermedia (Southern Reed Canary Grass; Gilbert's Relief Grass; Stew- 
 art's Canary Giass; California Timothy Grass . 
 
 This species resembles the foreign Canary grass (/'/<« laris Canariensis) which pro- 
 duces the seed commonly sold as food for Canary birds. It is. however, a taller and 
 more robust species, growing 2 or 3 feet high, with a stout, erect culm and broad, 
 linear leaves, which are from 4 to 10 inches long. The spike is oblong and compact, 
 1 or 2 inches long. There is a variety called var. angusta, in which the spike is :J or 
 4 inches long. The spikelets are much like those of the preceding species (Phalaris 
 anoidiiiacca), having one perfect flower and two abortive ones. The outer glumes 
 are lanceolate and nearly alike and have a narrow wing extending down the keel. 
 The glumes of the feitile flower are nearly like those of Phalaris arundinacea already 
 described. 
 
 This species grows in South Carolina and the Golf States, extending 
 to Texas, then stretching across to the Pacific coast and occurring 
 through California and Oregon. It has frequently been sent to the De- 
 partment from the Southern States as a valuable winter grass. 
 
 Mr. Thomas TV. Beaty, of Conway, S. C, writes as follows: 
 
 The grass I send you was planted last September, and the specimens were cut on 
 the 9th of March, following. You will notice that it is heading out and is just now 
 in a right coudition for mowing. It is wholly a winter grass, dying down in the latter 
 part of April aud first of May ; and it seems to me should be a great thing for the 
 South if properly introduced aud cultivated, or rather the ground properly prepared 
 and the seed sown at the right time. It would afford the best of green pasturage for 
 sheep and cattle all winter. It is what we call Gilbert's relief grass. 
 
 Many years ago Dr. Lincecum, of Texas, experimented with this grass 
 aud recommended it very highly. In California it is called California 
 Timothy, and is said to have little or no agricultural value. It is an 
 annual or biennial. Professor Phares says: 
 
 The variety angusla is much larger and more valuable. It grows 2 to 3 feet high 
 and in swamps 5 feet, with many leaves 4 to 10 inches long, the spike somewhat re- 
 sembling the head of Timothy ; stock like it well, especially as hay. Mr. D. Stewart, 
 of Louisiana, having tested other grasses, prefers this for quantity and quality for 
 wiuter and spring grazing, and for soiling for milk cows. There is much testiinouy 
 from many parts of the South of the same import, and this grass is doubtless worthy 
 of extended, careful testing. 
 
 (Plate 33.) 
 
 ANTHOXANTHTJM. 
 
 Panicle somewhat spike-like. Spikelets apparently three-flowered, 
 but only the terminal one perfect; the lower pair of glumes are equal, 
 the lower one much smaller than the upper one : above these aud be- 
 low the perfect flower are two short, thin, two-lobed pubescent glumes, 
 
40 
 
 sometimes called abortive flowers, each one with an awn between the 
 lobes; the upper or perfect flower is smaller, consisting of one broad, 
 thin, three-nerved glume, and one (commonly considered the palet) nar- 
 row, one-nerved, hyaline glume. No true palet. Stamens two; styles 
 two, distinct. 
 
 A. odoratum (Sweet Vernal Grass). 
 
 A perennial grass, native of Europe, much employed as a part of 
 mixed lawn grasses, and frequently naturalized in meadows. It grows 
 thinly on the ground, with slender culms, seldom more than 1 foot to 18 
 inches in height, and scanty in foliage. The panicle is 2 to 3 inches 
 long, narrow, close, but expands considerably during flowering time. 
 It is very fragrant and gives a pleasant odor to hay. (Plate 34.; 
 
 ALOPECURUS. 
 
 Alopecurus geniculates (Water Foxtail). 
 
 This species and its variety aristulatus, which is the more abundant 
 form, is native to this country. It commonly grows on the muddy 
 banks of streams and lakes, and sometimes is found in wet meadows 
 and ditches. It seldom reaches more than a foot in height: the stem 
 is usually bent at the lower joint, and the sheaths of the leaves are 
 more or less swollen, especially the upper one. It is of no value for 
 cultivation, being useful only for the amount of grass it may contribute 
 to the wild forage of the place in which it grows. 
 
 Alopecurus pratensis (Meadow Foxtail). 
 
 This is a perennial grass, a native of Europe, but it has been introduced into this 
 country and is frequently found in meadows of the Eastern States. It has consider- 
 able resemblance to Timothy, but will be readily distinguished by an examination. 
 It ordinarily grows but 2 feet high, bnt frequently in good soil reaches 3 feet or more. 
 The cnlms are erect, with four or live leaves at pretty uniform distances. The 
 sheaths are long and rather loose, particularly the upper one. The blade of the leaf 
 is 3 or 4 inches long, about one-quarter of an inch wide at the base, and tapering 
 gradually to a point. The panicle terminates the stalk, and is a cylindrical spike 2 or 
 3 inches long, dense, soft, and with the awns of the flowers conspicuously projecting. 
 The spikeletfi are single-flowered, between 2 and 3 lines long. The outer glumes 
 are strongly compressed, boat-shaped, keeled, nearly equal, sometimes slightly united 
 together at the base, and have a line of soft, short hairs on the keels. These glumes 
 closely inclose the llower, which is of nearly the same length, and consists of a flower- 
 ing glume, but without any true palet. This flowering glume is folded upon itself 
 and incloses the stamens and styles. It gives rise on its back, near the base, to a tine 
 awn. which extends two or three lines beyond the glumes. 
 
 Mr. J. S. Gould says : 
 
 It nourishes in May. nearly four weeks in advance of Timothy, and is one of the 
 earliest grasses to start in the spring. Pastures well covered with this grass will 
 afford a full bite at least one week earlier than those which do not have it. It does 
 not llonrish in dry soils, but loves moist lands ; no grass bears a hot sun better, and 
 ii i- not injured by frequent mowings, on which account, as well as for its early 
 verdure, it is valuable for lawns. 
 
 (Plate 35.) 
 
41 
 
 Alopecuius occidentalis ^ Rocky Mountain Foxtail). 
 
 This species is indigenous in Montana and [dalio, and is very com- 
 mon along mountain streams, frequently covering acres of the mountain 
 
 meadows. It is called in some localities mountain Timothy. It yields 
 a large quantity of line, bright hay, for which purpose it is often har- 
 vested and highly valued. It is of little value for grazing. Probably 
 under cultivation it would become as useful as the European species. 
 
 ARISTIDA. 
 
 Spikelets one-llowered, in a spicate <>r an open branching panicle, generally on lili- 
 form pedicels; outer glumes unequal, often "bristle-pointed : flowering glnrae narrow. 
 rolled around the flower, terminating with a trifid awn. or apparently three-awned. 
 Palet small and thin, inclosed in the flowering glume. 
 
 The grasses of this large genus are generally either worthless or of 
 little agricultural value. The perennial species in some localities fur- 
 nish a considerable amount of wild forage of an interior character. They 
 are very abundant in sandy and sterile soil, especially in the Rocky 
 Mountain region. 
 
 Aristida purpurea. 
 
 Aristida purpurea prevails extensively on the Western plains, and it 
 is said to form an important part of the early feed of the cattle. It grows 
 in bunches, and is about 1 foot high. The panicle is somewhat spread- 
 ing, and the flowers are purplish, with spreading, slender awns, 1 inch 
 or more in length. (Plate 3G.) 
 
 STIPA. 
 
 Spikelets one-flowered, terete, spicate, or paniculate. Outer glumes membranaceous, 
 keeled; flowering glume narrow, coriaceous, rigid, involute, with a simple twisted awn 
 from the apex; palet usually small and inclosed by the flo weeing .glunie. Stamens 
 generally three. The dowering glume has a hardened, often sharp-pointed and bearded 
 pedicel or stipe at its base. 
 
 This genus has its principal range in the region of the Eocky Mount- 
 ains and the Great Plaius. They are mostly coarse, rigid grasses, hav- 
 ing little agricultural value. In common with many other kinds they 
 are usually called bunch grass, sometimes beard grass, or feather 
 grass. The more abundant species are Stipa spartea, Stipa comata, and 
 Stipa viridula. These prevail from British America southward, on the 
 plains, aud in the mountains. The genus is particularly distinguished 
 by the awn or beard of the flowering glume, and the sharp-pointed and 
 barbed stipe or base of the glume. Complaint has been made among 
 stockmen of great injury to sheep by the penetration of these sharp 
 points into the wool, and even into the flesh. The awns or feathery 
 appendages are in some species 4 to 6 inches long, and are subject to a 
 spiral twisting when dry, which assists in forcing the seed into the 
 ground for germination. Stipa avenacea is the only species prevailing 
 in the Eastern and Southern States, and is of no agricultural impor- 
 
42 
 
 tance. The long, feathery awns of Stipa pennata are beautiful and orna- 
 mental. (Plate 37, Stipa viridula.) 
 
 Stipa spartea. 
 
 JStipa spartea is called porcupine grass, arrow grass, and devil's 
 knitting-needles, from the long, stiff, twisted awns inclosing the seed. 
 The seeds ripen early and drop to the ground, and later in the season 
 the grass may be easily recognized by the persistent, bleached culms 
 and empty glumes of the spreading panicle. The long root-leaves con- 
 tinue green and vigorous throughout the summer, frequently being 2 
 feet long. Although somewhat coarse the grass makes a very good hay, 
 and forms a considerable part of the wild prairie hay in Iowa, Nebraska, 
 Minnesota, and southern Dakota. It is called buffalo grass in the Sas- 
 katchewan region. It should receive attention in Western experiments 
 for a pasture grass. (Plate 38.) 
 
 ORYZOPSIS. 
 
 This genus differs from Stipa chiefly in having a shorter ovate or oblong flower, 
 with the callus at the base shorter and broader, and in having usually a very short 
 and deciduous awn to the flowering glume. 
 
 Oryzopsis cuspidata (Bunch Grass). 
 
 This grass has a wide distribution, not only in the Sierras of Califor- 
 nia, but northward to British America, and eastward through all the 
 interior region of Utah, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Colorado, and 
 Nebraska, to the Missouri River. It is a perennial, growing in dense 
 tufts, whence its common name. 
 
 The culms are 1 to 2 feet high, with about three narrow, convolute leaves, the up- 
 per one having a long, inflated sheath which incloses the base of the panicle. The 
 radical leaves are narrow, rigid, and as long as or longer than the culm. The panicle 
 is about 6 inches long, very loose, spreading and flexuous. The branches are in pairs, 
 slender, rather distant, and are subdivided mostly in pairs. The spikelets are at 
 the ends of the capillary branches, each one-flowered. The outer glumes are 3 to 
 4 lines long, inflated and widened below, gradually drawn to a sharp-pointed 
 apex, thin and colorless except the three or five green nerves, and slightly hairy. 
 The glumes inclose an ovate flower, which is covered externally with a profusion of 
 white, silky hairs, and tipped with a short awn, which falls off at maturity. This 
 apparent flower is the flowering glume, of a hard, coriaceous texture, and incloses a 
 similar hard, but not hairy, and smaller palet. 
 
 In Montana it is one of the most esteemed bunch grasses, and thrives 
 on soil too sandy for other valuable species. Professor Brewer states 
 that in southern California it is called saccatoo or saccatoa. (Plate 39.) 
 
 MILIUM. 
 
 Spikelets panicled ; outer glumes membranaceous, equal and convex, the flowering 
 glume and its palet coriaceous, much as in I'anicutn, but the articulation with the 
 rhachis is above the outer glumes. All the glumes are unawned, aud there is no ster- 
 ile pedicel. 
 
43 
 
 Milium effusum. 
 A tall, perennial grass, 4 or 5 feet high, growing in clamp woods iu the northern 
 
 portions of the United States and in Canada. It is also found in Northern Europe 
 and iu Russian Asia. 
 
 IIou. J. S. Gould, iii the Report of the New York State Agricultural 
 Society, says, respecting this grass : 
 
 Meadows and borders of streams and cold woods. It thrives when transplanted t<> 
 open and exposed situations. It is one of the most beautiful of the grasses; the pan- 
 icle is ofteu a foot long, and the branches are so exceedingly delicate- that the small, 
 glossy spikelets seem to be suspended in the air. Birds are very fond of the seed. 
 Mr. Colman says that he has raised 3 tons to the acre of as good, nutritions hay as 
 could be grown from it, when sown iu May. The plants multiply by the roots as 
 well as by the seed, sending out horizontal shoots of considerable length, which root 
 at the joint as they extend. 
 
 (Plate 40.) 
 
 MUHLENBERGIA, 
 
 Spikelets one-flowered, small, paniculate, articulated above the outer glumes; 
 flowering glume with a very short, usually hairy callus. 
 
 Muhlenbergia diffusa (Nimble Will). 
 
 Professor Killebrew, of Tennessee, says : 
 
 It is hardly more than necessary to mention this grass, which forms in many sec- 
 tions the bulk of the pastures of the woods. It does not grow in fields, but in woods, 
 where, after rains have set iu, it carpets the earth with living green. Various opin- 
 ions are entertained as to its nutritive qualities. Some fanners assert that their stock 
 are fond of it, and that on sufficient range, cattle, horses and sheep will go into the 
 winter sleek and fat from this vigorous grass. Others regard it as well nigh worth- 
 less. 
 
 (Plate 41.) 
 
 Muhlenbergia glomerata (Spiked Muhlenbergia). 
 
 This grass grows* ia wet, swampy grounds, chiefly in the Northern 
 and Western portions of the United States. It is found in Colorado, 
 Utah, Nevada, New Mexico, aud Texas. It grows to the height of 2 or 
 3 feet, stifrty erect and generally unbranched. 
 
 The culm is hard, somewhat compressed, and very leafy. The panicle is narrow, 
 2 to 4 inches long, composed of numerous close clusters of flowers, becoming looser 
 below, forming au interrupted glomerate spike. The spikelets are closely sessile in 
 the clusters. The root-stock is hard and knotty, aud furnished with numerous short, 
 firm shoots or stolons. 
 
 Tn the Eastern States it is utilized as one of the native products of 
 wet meadows in the making of what is called wild hay. Specimens 
 have been sent from Colorado and Kansas, and recommended as an 
 excellent grass for forage. (Plate 42.) 
 
 Muhlenbergia Mexicana. 
 
 A perennial grass of decumbent habit, 2 or 3 feet high, much branched, 
 from scaly, creeping root stocks. It is frequently found in moist woods 
 and low meadows or prairies. It probably would not endure upland 
 
44 
 
 culture, but in its native situations if fills an important place among 
 natural grasses. (Plate 43.) 
 
 Muhlenbergia sylvatica. 
 
 This species has much the appearance and habit of Muhlenbergia Ilex- 
 han<i. The panicle is looser, the spikelets not so densely clustered, and 
 the flowering glume bears an awn two or three times as long as itself. 
 1 1 is found in dry, open, or rocky woods and fence corners. In agricult- 
 ural value it corresponds to that species. (Plate 44.) 
 
 PHLEUM. 
 
 Fhleum pratense (Herd's Grass [of New England and New York]). 
 
 This is oue of the commonest and best-known grasses. For a hay 
 crop it is extensively cultivated, especially in the Northern and West- 
 ern States. The height of the grass depends on the soil and cultiva- 
 tion. In poor ground it may be reduced to 1 foot, while in good soil 
 and with good culture it readily attains 3 feet, and occasionally has 
 been found twice that height. It is a pereunial grass, with fibrous roots. 
 
 The base of the culm is sometimes thickened and inclined to be bulbous. The culm 
 is erect and firm, with four or five leaves, which are erect, and usually 4 to G inches 
 long. The flower spike is cylindrical and very densely flowered, and varies from 2 to 
 6 inches in length. The spikelets are sessile, single-flowered, and cylindrical or ob- 
 long in outline. The outer glumes are rather wedge-form, with a mncronare point or 
 short bristle. The main nerve on the back is fringed with a few short hairs. 
 
 This grass, as known in cultivation, is supposed to have been intro- 
 duced from Europe, but the earliest account that we have of its culture 
 is that given by Jared Elliot, who says it was found by a Mr. Timothy 
 Herd in a swamp in Xew Hampshire, and that he began its cultivation. 
 As it was found to be a valuable grass, its cultivation soon spread, and 
 it was known as Herd's grass. 
 
 It was not introduced into cultivation in England until some fifty 
 years later. I consider it very probable that the specimens found by 
 Mr. Herd were of native growth, for it is believed to be native in the 
 White Mountains, in the Kocky Mountains, in Alaska, and in Labrador. 
 It is also a native of Europe. But, however the question of its nativity 
 may be settled, the thanks of this country are due to Mr. Herd for the 
 introduction into agriculture of one of the most valuable of grasses. It 
 is now a favorite meadow grass over a large part of the country, and its 
 hay is a staple, and more sought after in the markets than any other 
 kind. 
 
 Timothy thrives best on moist, loamy soil of medium tenacity, and is 
 not suited to light, sandy, or gravelly soils. Under favorable circum- 
 stances and with good treatment it yields very large crops, often four 
 tons to the acre. One writer states that he has known whole fields 
 in Missouri grow to the height of 5 or feet, the soil, a pulverized 
 clay, being particularly suited to this grass. He also states that he has 
 
45 
 
 known fields of this grass to be highly productive for thirteen years in 
 
 succession. Fanners should not lose sight of the fact that the roots do 
 not extend widely, and that much of its vitality depends on the thick- 
 ened bulb-like base of the stem; therefore there is danger that, if mowed 
 too late in the season so that the bulbs and roots are left unprotected 
 from the weather, they may suiter from the action of frost, being some- 
 times lifted out of the ground from this cause. 
 
 A well-informed farmer, writing in the Prairie Farmer, says that 
 Timothy is an exhaustive crop, the roots not penetrating deeply enough 
 to obtain nourishment from the subsoil. Feeding off with stock lays 
 the crown of the plants bare, which, being of a bulbous nature, are 
 easily injured by exposure. When, however, the aftermath is very 
 abundant, Timothy meadows may be pastured sparingly in the tall to 
 reduce the heavy growth of rowan that sometimes accumulates so as to 
 interfere with the mower; but in no case should sheep be allowed upon 
 it, as they are very apt to nip off the crown of the plant and thus destroy 
 it. In order to keep up the productiveness of a Timothy meadow, a good 
 top-dressing of s able manure should be applied and evenly spread in 
 the fall. This will protect the roots and cause a much thicker and 
 stronger growth. Timothy is often sown with clover in different pro- 
 portions, and under some circumstances this is a judicious practice. 
 But the more general practice is to have the Timothy meadows free 
 from other plants, and to sow about 12 pounds of seed to the acre. 
 
 When this grass is grown for the crop of seed, it should be allowed to 
 stand until the heads are ripe; 30 bushels to the acre have been pro- 
 duced. Of course the hay left after thrashing out the seed is coarse 
 and of inferior value. The clean seed weighs about 45 pounds to the 
 bushel. (Plate 45.) 
 
 SPOROBOLUS. 
 
 Spikelets one, rarely two-flowered, in a contracted or open panicle ; onter glomes 
 unequal, the lower one shorter, often acute, unawned, out 1 to three-nerved, mem- 
 branaceous; flowering glume mostly longer, unawned; palet about equaling the 
 flowering glume and of the same texture, prominently two-nerved. Seed mostly 
 loose in a hyaline or rarely coriaceous pericarp. 
 
 Sporobolus cryptandrus. 
 
 This species has an extensive range. It is common in sandy fields in 
 the Northern and Southern States, as well as over all the dry plains 
 west of the Mississippi, extending from British America to Mexico, fur- 
 nishing a considerable share of the wild pasturage of that region. 
 (Plate 46.) 
 
 Sporobolus Indicus. 
 
 This grass is a native of India, but has spread over most tropical and 
 warm climates. It occurs more or less abundantly in all the Southern 
 States, and is called smut grass, from the fact that after dowering the 
 heads become affected with a black smut, It grows in tufts or loose 
 
46 
 
 patches, from 1J to 3 feet high, with an abundance of long, flat, fine- 
 pointed leaves at the base, and a narrow terminal panicle, frequently a 
 foot in length, composed of short, erect, sessile branches, which are 
 very closely flowered. 
 
 Professor Phares says : 
 
 It grows abundantly and luxuriantly on many uncultivated fields and commons, 
 and furnishes grazing from April till frost. It thrives under much grazing and many 
 mowings, and grows promptly after each if the soil is moist enough. Cattle and 
 horses are fond of it, if it is frequently cut or grazed down, but if allowed to remain 
 untouched long they will not eat it unless very hungry, as it becomes tough and un- 
 palatable and probably difficult to digest. 
 
 (Plate 47.) 
 
 AGROSTIS. 
 
 Spikelets one-flowered, in a contracted or open panicle ; outer glumes nearly equal 
 or tbe lower rather longer, and longer than the flowering glume, one-nerved, acute, 
 unawned ; flowering glume shorter and wider, hyaline, three to five-nerved, awnless 
 or sometimes awned on the back ; palet shorter than the flowering glume, frequently 
 reduced to a small scale or entirely wanting ; stamens usually three; grain free. 
 
 Agrostis vulgaris (Redtop, Finetop, Herd's Grass [of Pennsylvania], Bent Grass, etc.) 
 A perennial grass, growing 2 or 3 feet high from creeping root-stocks, 
 which interlace so as to make a very firm sod ; the culms are upright, 
 or sometimes decumbent at the base, smooth, round, rather slender and 
 clothed with four or five leaves, which are flat, narrow, and roughish, 
 from 3 to 6 inches long, with smooth sheaths, and generally truncate 
 ligules. It is extensively cutivated. 
 
 Agrostis alba, the florin grass of Ireland, and Agrostis stolonifera are 
 usually considered synonymous, and are distinguished from Agrostis vul- 
 garis by having a closer, more verticillated panicle and with longer and 
 more acute ligules. 
 
 Mr. J. G. Gould says of Agrostis vulgaris: 
 
 This is a favorite grass in wet, swampy meadows, where its interlacing, thick roots 
 consolidate the sward, making a firm matting which prevents the feet of cattle from 
 poaching. It is generally considered a valuable grass in this country, though by no 
 means the best one. Cattle eat hay made from it with a relish, especially when 
 mixed with other grasses. As a pasture grass it is much valued by dairymen, and in 
 their opinion the butter would suffer much by its removal. 
 
 Professor Phares, of Louisiana, says, respecting this grass: 
 
 It grows well on hill-tops and sides, in ditches, gullies and marshes, but delights in 
 moist bottom-land. It is not injured by overflow, though somewhat prolonged. It 
 furnishes considerable grazing during warm spells in winter, and in spring and sum- 
 mer an abundant supply of nutriment. Cut before maturing seed, it makes hay and 
 a large quantity. It seems to grow taller in the Southern States than it does farther 
 north, and to make more and better hay and grazing. 
 
 Mr. Flint says: 
 
 It is a good permanent grass, standing our climate as well as any other, and con- 
 sequently well suited to our pastures, in which it should be fed close ; for if allowed 
 to grow up to seed the cattle refuse it ; and this seems to show that it is not so much 
 relished by stock as some of the other pasture grasses, 
 
 (Plate 48.) 
 
47 
 
 Agrostis canina. 
 
 A grass usually of low size, G to 12 inches high, with slender calms, 
 and a light, flexible, expanded panicle, and with a perplexing variety 
 of forms. There are several varieties growing in mountainous regions 
 
 throughout the United States, and in Europe. It forms a close sod, 
 and affords considerable pasturage in those regions. It is probably one 
 of the grasses called Rhode Island bent grass. 
 
 Agrostis exarata. 
 
 This is chiefly a northwestern species, being found in Wisconsin and westward to 
 the Rocky Mountains, also from British America and California to Alaska. It is 
 very variable in appearance, and presents several varieties. It is generally more 
 slender in growth than the common redtop. The panicle is usually Longer, narrower, 
 and looser. In all the forms the palet is wanting or is very minute. The form chiefly 
 growing on the Pacific slope from California to Alaska is often more robust than the 
 Agrostis vulgaris, growing 2 to 3 feet high, with astout, firm culm, clothed with three 
 or four broadish leaves, 4 to 6 inches long. The panicle is 4 to o' inches long, pale 
 green, rather loose, but with erect branches. 
 
 It deserves trial for cultivation, at least ou the Pacific side of the con- 
 tiueut. (Plate 49.) 
 
 CINNA. 
 
 Spikelets one-flowered, much flattened, in an open, spreading panicle : outer glnmes 
 lanceolate, acute, strongly keeled, hispid on the keel, the upper somewhat longer 
 than the lower ; flowering glume manifestly stalked above the outer glumes, about 
 the same length as the outer ones, three-nerved, short-awned on the back near the 
 apex; palet nearly as long as its glume, only one-nerved (probably by the consolida- 
 tion of two, Bentham); stamen one. A sterile pedicel sometimes present. 
 
 Cinna arundinacea (Wood Eeed Grass). 
 
 A perennial grass, with erect simple culms from 3 to 6 feet high, and a creeping 
 rhizoma; growing in swamps and moist, shaded woods in northern or mountainous 
 districts. The leaves are broadly linear lanceolate, about 1 foot long, 4 to (5 lines 
 wide, and with a conspicuous elongated ligule. The panicle is from G to 12 inches 
 long, rather loose and open in the flower, afterwards more close. 
 
 This leafy -stemmed grass furnishes a large quantity of fodder, but 
 experiments are wanting to determine its availability under cultivation. 
 (Plate 50.) 
 
 Cinna pendula. 
 
 This species is more slender, with a looser drooping panicle and more 
 capillary branches, and with thinner glumes. It occurs in the same 
 situations as the preceding, and is more common in the Rocky Mount- 
 ains and Oregon. 
 
 AMMOPHILA. 
 
 Spikelets one-flowered, in a contracted, spike-like or open, diffuse panicle, with or 
 without a bristle-like rudiment opposite the palet; outer glnmes large, nearly equal, 
 rigid, thick, lanceolate, acute, keeled, five-nerved; flowering glume similar in texture. 
 about equal in length, sometimes mucronate at the apex ; palet as long as iis glume, 
 of similar texture, two-keeled, sulcate between the keels; hairs at the base of the 
 flower usually scanty and short, 
 
48 
 
 Ammophila aiundinacea (Beacb Grape; Sand (ii 
 
 This is Galamagrostis arenaria of the older books. The entire plant 
 is of a wliitisli, or pale-green color. It grows on sandy beaches of the 
 Atlantic, at least as far south as Xorth Carolina, and on the shores of 
 the Great Lakes, but has not, so far, been recorded from the Pacific 
 coast. It also grows on the sea-coast of the British Isles and of Europe. 
 It forms tufts of greater or less extent, "its long, creeping roots extend- 
 ing sometimes to the extent of 40 feet, and bearing tubers the size of a 
 pea, interlaced with death-like tenacity of grasp, and form a net-work 
 beneath the sand which resists the most vehement assault of the ocean 
 waves." The culms are from 2 to 3 feet high, rigid and solid ; the leaves 
 long, involute, smooth, stiff, and slender-pointed; the panicle is dense, 
 to 10 inches long, close and spike-like; the spikelets are about half 
 an inch long, compressed, crowded on very short branchlets. 
 
 This grass has no agricultural value, but from time immemorial its 
 utility in binding together the loose sands of the beach, and restrain- 
 ing the inroads of the ocean, has been recognized and provided for in 
 some places by law. Mr. Flint, in his work on grasses, says that the 
 town and harbor of Provincetown, once called Cape Cod, where the 
 Pilgrims first landed, one of the largest and most important harbors of 
 the United States, sufficient in depth for ships of largest size, and in 
 extent to anchor three thousand vessels at once, owe their preservation 
 to this grass. The usual way of propagating the grass is by transplant- 
 ing the roots. It is pulled up by hand and placed in a hole about a 
 foot deep and the sand pressed around it by the foot. There are un- 
 doubtedly many places on the sea-coast where this grass would be of 
 inestimable value in restraining the encroachment of the ocean. It 
 would also be useful in forming a dense turf for the protection of dikes 
 and banks subject to water-washing c 
 
 CALAMAGROSTIS. 
 
 This genus is characterized by having one-flowered spikelets, with the addition 
 at the base of the flowering glume of a small hairy appendage or pedicel, which is 
 considered to be the rudiment of a second flower. In addition to this the flower is 
 also generally surrounded at the base with a ring of soft hairs, and the flowering 
 glmne usually bears an awn on its back, which is generally bent and twisted. 
 
 In this genus there are two sections, viz: 1st. Deyeuxia. in which there is a small 
 hairy pedicel in front of the palet of the single perfect flower : the glunres thin and 
 membranaceous. In this section are most of our North American species. 2d, Calamo- 
 vilfa, in which the glumes and palet are thicker and more compressed, and the sterile 
 pedicel or rudiment is wanting. 
 
 Calamagrostis (Deyeuxia) Canadensis (Blue-joint; Small Eeed Grass). 
 
 A stout, erect, tall perennial grass, growing chiefly in wet, boggy 
 ground or in low, moist meadows. Its favorite situation is in cool, ele- 
 vated regions. It prevails in all the northern portions of the United 
 States, in the Rocky Mountains, and in British America. In those dis- 
 tricts it is one of the best and most productive of the indigenous grasses. 
 
It varies much in luxuriance of foliage and size of panicle, according 
 
 to the locatiou. 
 
 The culms are from :* to 5 feet high, stout and hollow, hence in some places it is 
 called the small reed grass. The Leaves arc 1 fool or more long, flat, from a quarter 
 
 to nearly half an inch wide, and roughi&h : the stein and sheaths smooth. 
 
 The panicle is oblong in outline, open, and somewhat spreading, especially (taring 
 flowering; it is from 4 to C or even S inches in length, and "J or 3 inches in diameter, 
 of a purplish color; the branches are mostly in lives at intervals of an inch 0] 
 These branches vary in length from 1 to 3 inches, the long ones flowering only toward 
 the extremity. The spikelets are short-stalked, the outer glumes about one and one- 
 half lines long, lanceolate and acute; the silky white hairs at the base of the flower- 
 ing glume are about as long as the glume : those on the sterile pedicel also nearly as 
 long. The flowering glume is thin and delicate, about as long as the outer glumes. 
 and somewhat finely toothed at the apex, three to five-nerved, and bearing on the 
 back, below the middle, a delicate awn, reaching about to the point of the glume, and 
 not much stouter than the hairs. The proper palet is thin, oblong, and about two- 
 thirds the length of its glume. 
 
 Mr. J. S. Gould says : 
 
 It constitutes about one-third of the natural grasses on the Beaver Dam Meadows 
 of the Adirondacks. It is certain that cattle relish it very much, both in its green 
 state and when made into hay, and it is equally certain that the fanners who have it 
 on their farms believe it to be one of the best grasses of their meadows. 
 
 Professor Crozier, who spent some time in northwestern Iowa and 
 adjacent parts of Minnesota and Dakota, in studying the native graa 
 says : 
 
 This is considered by some to produce the best hay for cattle of all the native 
 grasses. It is very leafy, and stands remarkably thick on the ground. The seed 
 ripens early in July, but the leaves remain green until winter. It is probably 
 hardly equal to some of the upland grassss in quality, but it gives a larger yield, and 
 is undoubtedly worthy of cultivation. It is usually found upon the margins of ponds; 
 it Will thrive, however, on land that is only slightly moist, and often occurs along 
 the banks of roadside ditches. On rather low land which has been broken and 
 allowed to go back it frequently comes in, and after a few years occupies the land to 
 the exclusion of all other vegetation. 
 
 (Plate 51.) 
 
 Calamagrostis (Deyeuxia) sylvatica (Bunch Grass). 
 
 . A coarse perennial grass, growing in large tofts, usually in sandy 
 ground in the Bocky Mountains at various altitudes, also in California, 
 Oregon, aud British America. It furnishes an abundant coarse forage 
 in the regions where it is found. The culms are from 1 to 2 feet high, 
 erect, rigid, and leafy; the radical leaves are frequently as long as the 
 culm, two or three lines wide, sometimes flat, but generally involute 
 and rigid. The culm leaves are from 3 to G or 8 inches long, rigid 
 and rough. The panicle is narrow and spike-like, 3 to 5 inches long, 
 erect, rather dense, sometimes interrupted below, and varying from pale 
 green to purple. (Plate 52.) 
 Calamagrostis longifolia. 
 
 This grass grows on the sandy plains of the interior from British America to Ari- 
 zona, and on the borders of the Great Lakes. It has strong, running root-to. ks. like 
 
 3594 CrR 4 
 
50 
 
 the preceding, but is much taller, the culms being 3 to 6 feet high, stout and reed- like ; 
 the leaves long, rigid, and becoming involute, with a long, thread-like point. The 
 panicle is quite variable, from 4 to 1G inches long, at first rather close, but becoming 
 open and spreading, the branches in the smaller forms being 2 or 3 inches long, and 
 in the larger ones often 10 or 12 inches and widely spreading. It is abundant on the 
 plains of western Nebraska, Kansas, and Colorado, and furnishes a resource in winter 
 for food for the cattle of the ranches. 
 
 (Plate 53.) 
 
 HOLCUS. 
 
 Spikelets two-flowered, crowded in an open panicle, the lower flower perfect, the 
 upper one male only, and with a minute, hairy rhachilla or rudiment at its base. 
 Outer glumes nearly equal, compressed, membranaceous, large (fully inclosing the 
 two flowers), flowering glumes half shorter, the lowest awuless, the upper with a 
 short dorsal awn. 
 
 Holcus lanatus (Velvet Grass; Velvet Mesquite; Soft Grass, etc.). 
 
 Introduced from Europe and naturalized in many parts of the United 
 States. It makes a striking and beautiful appearance, but stock are not 
 very fond of it, either green or cured. It is a perennial, but not very 
 strongly rooted, and does not spread from the root as do most perennial 
 grasses. It seeds abundantly, and is generally propagated by seed, 
 though sometimes by dividing the plants. It prefers low land, but does 
 very well even on sandy upland, and its chief value is in being able to 
 grow on land too poor for other grasses. 
 
 The seed has been in market many years, but it has come into culti- 
 vation very slowly, and it is not generally held in very high esteem as 
 an agricultural grass, either in this country or in Europe. Some speak 
 well of it, however, and it has frequently been sent to the Department 
 from the South, with strong recommendations for its productiveness. 
 
 C. Menelas, Savannah, Ga. : 
 
 Known almost all over the South as yielding more than orchard grass, but for some 
 reason only grown where nature lias planted it. 
 
 Mrs. J. W. Bryan, Dillon, northwestern Georgia : 
 
 My meadows and ditches are full of it, though it is not sown here. It is very valu- 
 able for pasture, and gives a very early aud heavy yield of hay. 
 
 L. S. Kicholson, Cruinly, northeastern Alabama: 
 
 This grass has been grown on a farm I own for about teu years. It does best on 
 rich, moist land, but grows fairly well on poor, dry, sandy laud, where other and, I 
 must say, better grasses fail. 
 
 It grows from 2 to 3 feet high, and makes apparently sufficient hay, but very light 
 and chaffy and of inferior quality. It appears to be Lardy and will withstand drought 
 well. The grass is right pretty when growing, and nice for pasturing, but we have 
 other grasses so much better that can generally be grown on laud that this would 
 occupy that I shall vote against it for all purposes. 
 
 Clarke Lewis, Chftonville, Miss. : 
 
 It grows on poor, sandy laud to a height of 3 to 4 feet ; stands drought well, but 
 can be killed by a slight overflow. It is valuable as a soiling plant, but makes infe- 
 rior hay. It is au annual, and if intended for a permanent meadow must be cut only 
 once, and then allowed to reseed itself. 
 
51 
 
 II. W. L. Lewis, secretary Louisiana state Grange, Tangipahoa Par- 
 ish, La. (P. O., Osyka, Miss.): 
 
 It is hardy and cultivated in small lots, doing best on rich, sandy loam, yielding 2 
 to 3 tons per acre. I have experimented more than any one else in my section with 
 forage plants, especially winter grains and grasses. Have used rye and barley for 
 winter feed, but have given them up in favor of the Holcua lanatlts; have had this in 
 cultivation for thirty years. It is a perennial, hut owing to its shallow roots it dies 
 out during our long, dry summer and fall from 50 to 75 percent. One lot kept the 
 third year had less than 10 per cent, of the grass alive. Bence I have for twenty 
 years or more used it as an annual, sowing it with turnips, collards, or by itself. A 
 good way is to sow the seed broadcast and cover lightly in a late crop of turnips after 
 the last cultivation. After the turnip crop is removed the first warm days in January 
 or February will start the grass into rapid growth. It is cut frequently through the 
 spring for green feed, arid after oats are ready to cut is allowed to mature seed. 
 
 Prof. D. L. Phares, in his " Farmer's Book of Grasses," says: 
 
 In the Eastern States this grass is called Salem grass and white Timothy ; in the 
 South, velvet lawn grass, and velvet mesquite grass; in England, woolly soft grass 
 and Yorkshire white. It has been sent to me for name more frequently than any 
 other grass. Having found its way to Texas, people going there from other States 
 have sent back seeds to their friends, calling it Texas velvet mesquite grass, supposing 
 it a native of that State. So far as has come to my knowledge nine-tenths of all so- 
 called mesquite grass planted in the Southern States is this European velvet grass. 
 It grows much larger in some of the Southern States than in the Eastern States or in 
 England, and seems to have greatly improved by acclimation. 
 
 Velvet grass may be readily propagated by sowing the seed or dividing the roots. 
 It luxuriates in moist, peaty lands, but will grow on poor, sandy, or clay hill lands 
 and produce remunerative crops where few others will make anything. The reason 
 that cattle do not prefer it is not because of a deficiency in nutrition, but because of 
 its combination. It is deficient simply in saline and bitter extractive matter which 
 cattle relish in grasses. 
 
 It is by no means the best of our grasses, but best on some lands. Other gi 
 are more profitable to me. It should be sown from August to October, 14 pounds equal 
 to 2 bushels per acre. Northward it is perennial, in the South it is not strictly so. 
 
 (Plate 54.) 
 
 TRISETUM. 
 
 Spikelets two to three, rarely five-flowered, in a dense or open pan- 
 icle, the rachis usually hairy and produced into a bristle at the base of 
 the upper flower; outer glumes unequal, acute, keeled, membranaceous, 
 with scarious margins; flowering glumes of similar texture, keeled, 
 acute, the apex two-toothed, the teeth sometimes prolonged into bristle- 
 like points, the middle nerve furnished with an awn attached above the 
 middle, which is usually twisted at the base and bent in the middle ; 
 palet hyaline, narrow, two-nerved, two-toothed. 
 
 Trisetum palustre. 
 
 A slender grass, usually about 2 feet high, growing in low meadows or 
 moist ground throughout the eastern part of the United States. The 
 culms are smooth, with long internodes and few linear leaves, 2 to 4 
 inches long; the panicle is oblong, 3 to 4 inches long, loose and grace- 
 fully drooping, the branches two to live together, rather capillary, 1 to 
 
52 
 
 \.\ inches long and loosely flowered ; the spikelets are two-flowered; 
 tbe outer glumes are about two lines long, the lower one one-nerved, 
 the upper rather obovate and three-nerved ; the lower flower is com- 
 monly awnless or only tipped with a short awn; the second flower is 
 rather shorter and with a slender, spreading awn longer than the flower. 
 This is a nutritious grass, but is seldom found in sufficient quantity 
 to be of much value. (Plate 55.) 
 
 Trisetum subspicatum. 
 
 The culms are erect and firm, smooth or downy. The panicle is spike-like, dense, 
 and cylindrical or elongated, and more or less interrupted, generally of a purplish 
 color. The spikelets are two or three-flowered. The flowers are a little longer than 
 the outer glumes, slightly scabrous, the flowering glumes acutely two-toothed at the 
 apex, and bearing a stout awn which is longer thau its glume. 
 
 A perennial grass of the mountainous region of Europe and North 
 America ; undoubtedly furnishes a considerable portion of mountain 
 pasturage. It is found sparingly in New England, on the shores of 
 Lake Superior, in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, Utah, California, 
 Oregon, and northward to the Arctic circle. It varies in height accord- 
 ing to the latitude at which it grows, being sometimes reduced to 3 or 
 4 inches, at other times running up to 2 feet high. (Plate 50.) 
 
 AVBNA. 
 A vena fatua (Wild Oats). 
 
 This species is very common in Calfornia. It is generally thought to 
 have been introduced from Europe, where it is native, but it has become 
 diffused over many other countries, including Australia and South 
 America. It is thought by some to be the original of the cultivated 
 oat, Arena saliva, that the common will degenerate into the wild oat, 
 and that by careful cultivation and selection of seed the wild oat can 
 be changed into the common cultivated oat. But on this question there 
 is a conflict of opinions, and the alleged facts are not sufficiently estab- 
 lished. The wild oat differs from the cultivated one chiefly in having 
 more flowers in the spikelets, in the long, brown hairs which cover the 
 flowering glumes, in the constant presence of the long, twisted awn, 
 and in the smaller size aud lighter weight of the grain. It is a great 
 injury to any grain-field in which it may be introduced ; but for the 
 purposes of fodder, of which it makes a good quality, it has been much 
 employed in California. (Plate 57.) 
 
 ARRHENATHERUM. 
 
 Arrheuatherum avenaceurn (Evergreen Grass; Meadow Oat Grass; Tall Oat Grass). 
 Culms 2 to 4 feet high, erect, rather stout, with four or five leaves each : the sheaths 
 smooth, the leaves somewhat rough on the upper surface, 6 to 10 inches long, and about 
 [\ lines wide, gradually pointed. The panicle is loose, rather contracted, from 6 to 10 
 inches long, and rather drooping; the branches very unequal, mostly in fives, the 
 longer ones 1 to 3 inches, and subdivided from about the middle: the smaller branches 
 very short, all rather full-flowered, The spikelets are mostly on short pedicels, The 
 
53 
 
 structure of the flowers is similar to iliat of common oats, buf different iu sev< raJ 
 particulars. The spikelel consists of two flowers, the loner of which is stamiuate 
 only, the upper one both Btamiuate and pistillate; the outer glunu i and 
 
 transparent, the upper ones about 1 lines long and three-nerved, the low crone nearly 
 :? lines long and one-nerved. The flowering glome is about 1 lines long, gr^< u, 
 strongly seven-nerved. Lanceolate, acute, hairy at base, roughish, and in the lower 
 flower gives rise on the back below the middle to a long, twisted, and bent awn ; in 
 the upper flower the glume is merely bristle-pointed near the apex. The palet is thin 
 and transparent, linear and two-toothed. 
 
 This grass is much valued on the continent of Europe. The herbage 
 is very productive and its growth rapid. When growing with other 
 grasses, cattle and sheep eat it very well, but do not like to be confined 
 
 to it exclusively. It is a perennial grass of strong, vigorous growth, in- 
 troduced from Europe and sparingly cultivated. 
 Professor Phares, of Mississippi, says : 
 
 It is widely naturalized and well adapted to a great variety of soils. On sandy or 
 gravelly soils it succeeds admirably, growing 2 to 3 feet high. On rich, dry upland it 
 grows from 5 to 7 feet high. It has an abundance of perennial, long, fibrous roots 
 penetrating deeply in the soil, being therefore less affected by drought or cold, and 
 enabled to yield a large quantity of foliage, winter and summer. These advantages 
 render it one of the very best grasses for the South, both for grazing, being evergreen, 
 and for hay, admitting of being cut twice a year. It is probably the best winter 
 grass that can be obtained. It will make twice as much hay as Timothy. To make 
 good hay it must be cut as soon as it blooms, and after it is cut must not be wet by dew 
 or rain, which damages it greatly in quality and appearance. For green soiling it may 
 be cut four or five times, with favorable seasons. In from six to ten days after bloom- 
 ing the seeds begin to ripen and fall, the upper ones hist. It is therefore a little 
 troublesome to save the seed. As soon as those at the top of the panicle ripen suffi- 
 ciently to begin to drop, the panicle should be cut off and dried, when the seeds will 
 all thrash out readily and be matured. 
 
 After the seeds are ripe and taken off, the long, abundant leaves and stems are still 
 green, and being mowed make good hay. It may be sown in March or April and 
 mowed the same season ; but for heavier yield it is better to sow in September or Octo- 
 ber. Xot less than 2 bushels (14 pounds) per acre should be sown. The average an- 
 nual nutriment yielded by this grass in the Southern belt is probably twice as great 
 as in Pennslyvania and other Northern States. 
 
 A. P. Eowe, Frederieksburgh, Va. : 
 
 Tall oat grass has been seeded here and does well. It comes in with orchard 
 grass for hay, and the two might be seeded together with the best results. 
 
 T. W. Wood & Sons, Richmond, Va. : 
 
 It is cultivated very generally for pasture and hay : and is the best grass we know 
 for thin soils. It is hardy, stands drought moderately well, is easily subdued, and 
 lasts live or six years. 
 
 Dr. W. J. Beal, Agricultural College, Michigan : 
 
 It is cultivated in a Few places in the State, proving perfectly hardy, and doing best 
 on deep, porous soils where it stands drought very well, yielding perhaps 3 tons 
 per acre. It makes good pasture, and lasts a long time. 
 
 J. J. Dotson, Cedarton, Tex. 
 
 It is very fair for early spring pastures, and to cut for green feed when it first heads, 
 in March, but it is not liked as hay. It is too light and the seeds fall oft' too easily. 
 I have never known it cultivated. Thrives only on low bottom-land. 
 
 (Plate 58.) 
 
54 
 
 CYNODON. 
 
 Cynodon Dactylon (Bermuda Grass). 
 
 Alow, creeping perennial grass, -with abundant short leaves at the base, sending 
 up slender, nearly leafless, flower stalks or culms, which have three to five slender, 
 diverging spikes at the summit. The spikelets are sessile in two rows on one side of 
 the slender spikes ; they each have one flower, with a short-pediceled, naked rudi- 
 ment of a second flower; the outer glumes nearly equal, keeled ; the flowering glume 
 boat-shaped, broader, and prominently keeled; the palet narrow, and two-keeled. 
 
 This is undoubtedly, on the whole, the most valuable grass in the 
 South. It is a native of Southern Europe, and of all tropical coun- 
 tries. It is a common pasture-grass in the West Indies and the Sand- 
 wich Islands, and has long been known in the United States, but the 
 difficulty of eradicating it when once established has retarded its intro- 
 duction into cultivation. Its value, however, is becoming more appre- 
 ciated now that more attention is being given to grass and relatively 
 less to cotton, and better methods and implements of cultivation are 
 being employed. Still, it seems probable, from the reports received, 
 that at the present time a majority of farmers would prefer not to have 
 it on their farms. It seeds very sparingly in the United States, and as 
 the imported seed is not always to be had, and is expensive, and often of 
 poor quality, those who have desired to cultivate it on a large scale 
 have seldom been able to do so. It is generally used as a lawn grass, 
 and to hold levees or railroad embankments, and for small pastures. 
 In some localities, however, it has spread over a considerable extent of 
 territory. Its natural extension into new territory has been slow, 
 owing to the partial or entire absence of seed, but it spreads rapidly 
 by its rooting stems when introduced. It is usually propagated arti- 
 ficially by means of the sets or rooting stems. These are sometimes 
 chopped up with a cutting-knife, sown broadcast, and plowed under 
 not very deeply ; sometimes they are dropped a foot or two apart iu 
 shallow furrows, and covered by a plow; sometimes pieces of the sod are 
 planted two feet apart each way. By any of these means a continuous 
 sod is obtained in a few months if the soil is good and well prepared. 
 
 The chief value of Bermuda grass is for summer pasture. It grows 
 best in the hottest weather, and ordinary droughts affect it but little. 
 The tops are easily killed by frosts, but the roots are quite hardy 
 throughout the Southern States. It is grown to some extent as far 
 north as Virginia, but in that latitude it possesses little advantage over 
 other grasses. In Tennessee, according to Professor Killebrew, its 
 chief value is for pasture, there being other grasses there of more value 
 for hay. Farther South, however, it is highly prized for hay.- To make 
 the largest quantity and best quality it should be mowed several times 
 during the season. The yield varies greatly according to soil, being 
 generally reported at from a ton and a half to two tons per acre. Much 
 larger yields have been reported, however, in specially favorable local- 
 ities where several cuttings were made. 
 
55 
 
 Bermuda grass is more easily eradicted from sandy land than from 
 clay, and on such land may be more safely introduced into a rotation. 
 To kill it out it should be rooted up or plowed very shallowly some time 
 in December and cultivated or harrowed occasionally daring the winter. 
 If severe freezes occur most of it will be killed by spring; or it may be 
 turned under deeply in spring and the land cultivated in some hoed 
 crop or one which will heavily shade the ground. 
 
 M. M. Martin, Comanche, Comanche County, central Texas: 
 
 Bermuda grass grows on any kind of soil in Texas, but will not stand the tramping 
 of stock on loose, sandy soil. It is hard to beat for a grazing grass, though long 
 droughts cause it to dry up. It is not very early to start in tin- spring. 
 
 Whitfield Moore, Woodland, Red River County, northeastern Texas: 
 
 Bermuda stands droughts well, isa good fertilizer, grows well from fifteen to t wenty 
 years from one planting, then only needs plowing to renew it. It is tolerably easily 
 subdued by shallow turning in early winter, so that it will freeze. It yields heavy 
 crops of hay and can be mowed three times a year. It is the finest grass 1 have ever 
 seen for summer grazing, and when inclosed from stock during the summer it is tine 
 winter grazing. It will stop washing, and cause low, wet land to till up and become 
 dry. 
 
 E. W. Jones, Buena Vista, Miss. : 
 
 Bermuda has been a great terror to planters until recently. If plowed shallow late 
 in the fall, and allowed to freeze during winter, there is no trouble to cultivate a crop 
 the next season. The ground becomes perfectly mellow, and though the grass is not 
 dead, it does but little injury to the crop. 
 
 E. Taylor, Pope's Ferry, Ga.: 
 
 Nothing kills it except severe freezing. It is the best of all grasses, and thrives on 
 any soil, but best on clay. It furnishes good pasture from May until the middle of 
 November. For winter grazing bur clover is taking its place. The yield of hay is 
 about 2 tons per acre. It will reclaim the poorest lands, and is not very difficult to 
 subdue. It ripens seeds in this State sparingly. 
 
 J. B. Wade, Edgewood, DeKalb County, northern Georgia : 
 
 This is about the most northern limit at which Bermuda grass grows in this State. 
 It is beginning to be highly appreciated both for grazing and for hay. It stands 
 drought well, keeping green from May until November. It makes good hay, and can 
 be cut two or three times a year, producing on an average 2\ tons of hay per acre. 
 While this is the most northern limit of Bermuda grass, it is also the most southern 
 limit of blue grass. The two growing together on the same land produce a most per- 
 fect pasture, as the blue grass is green nearly all the fall, winter, and spring months, 
 while during the heat of summer, which prevents the growth of the blue grass, the 
 Bermuda flourishes. The two together in good, strong soil make a perfect pasture, 
 good all the year around. 
 
 Prof. S. M. Tracy, now Director of the Mississippi Agricultural Ex- 
 periment Station, formerly of the Agricultural College, Columbia, Mo.: 
 
 It has been in cultivation near St. Louis, in one locality only, for many years. It 
 barely survives the winter and would doubtless be destroyed by pasturing. I have 
 noticed it very carefully about New Orleans, where it is by far the most valuable 
 
56 
 
 permanent pasture grass, and is thoroughly naturalized, if not a native. It is almost 
 the only grass grown there for winter pastare or for lawns. It stands drought well, 
 and grows anywhere exeept on very wet ground. It can he subdued hy one year of 
 thorough culti\ ation. 
 
 Prof. J. B. Killebrew, in "The Grasses of Tennessee, 7 ' says: 
 
 Occasionally the traveler meets v\ith patches of Bermuda grass in the cotton fields 
 of the South, where it is carefully avoided hy the planter, any disturbance giviugnew 
 stmt to its vigorous roots. Some ditch around it, others inclose it and let shruhhery 
 do the work of destruction. It forms a sward so tough that it is almost impossible 
 for a plow to pass through it. It will throw its runners over a rock feet across and 
 hide it from view, or it will run down the sides of the deepest gully and stop its 
 washing. It does not, however, endure shade, and in order to ohtain a good stand 
 the weeds must he mown from it the first year. It Avould he a good grass to mix with 
 blue grass, as when it disappears in winter the blue grass and white clover Avould 
 spring up to keep the ground in a constant state of verdure. This experiment has 
 been tried with eminent success. It grows luxuriantly on the top of Lookout Mount- 
 ain, having been set there many years ago. This mountain is 2,200 feet high, and 
 has, of course, excessively cold winters. 
 
 (Plate 59.) 
 
 SPARTINA. 
 
 A genus of coarse, perennial grasses, growing mainly in marshy grounds, from 
 strong, scaly root stocks. The flowers are produced in one-sided sifikes of the pan- 
 icle. The spikelets are closely sessile, and mostly crowded on the triangular axis. 
 They are one-flowered, and much flattened laterally. The empty glumes are unequal 
 strongly compressed and keeled, acute, the keel mostly hispid, the upper one longer 
 than the lower ; flowering glume compressed and keeled, awnless ; palet about 
 equaling its glume. 
 
 Spartina cynosuroides (Cord Grass). 
 
 A coarse and stout grass, growing from 3 to 5 feet high, with leaves 2 to 3 feet 
 long. The top of the culm for about 1 foot is occupied by from five to ten spikes, which 
 are from l-£ to 3 inches long, and the spikelets are very closely imbricated. The 
 lower glume is linear-lauceolate, the upper one lanceolate with a long, stiff point. 
 
 This species has a ^vide range, from near the coast to the base of the 
 Rocky Mountains. In the Western States it is very common, often 
 forming a large part of the grass of the sloughs and wet marshes of 
 that region. It is frequently cut for hay, but is of inferior quality 
 unless cut very early. 
 
 In the bottom-lauds of the Mississippi, where it is abundant, it has 
 been manufactured into paper. (Plate 60.) 
 
 Spartina juncea (Salt Grass : Marsh Grass). 
 
 A much smaller species than the preceding, usually 1 to 2 feet high, from a 
 creeping, scaly root stock, the culms rigid aud the leaves nearly round and rush-like. 
 There are from two to five spikes, which are 1£ to 2 inches long and on short peduncles. 
 
 This grass forms a large portion of the salt-marshes near the coast. 
 It makes an inferior hay, called salt hay, which is worth about half as 
 much per ton as Timothy and redtop. It is much employed as a pack- 
 ing material by hardware and crockery dealers. (Plate 01.) 
 
51 
 
 BOUTELOUA. 
 
 (Grama Grass.) 
 
 Spikes single or numerous in a racemose, commonly one-eided panicle; Bpikeleta 
 commonly densely crowded in two rows on one side of the rhachis, each consisl 
 one perfect flower and a stalked pedicel bearing empty glumes and one to tin. 
 awns; outer glumes unequal, acute, keeled, membranaceous ; flowering glume broader, 
 
 usually thicker, with three to five lobes, teeth, or awns at the apex : palel narrow 
 hyaline, entire or two-toothed, infolded by its glume. 
 
 Bouteloua oligostachya (Grama Grass; Mesquite Gra 
 
 This is the commonest species on the great plains. It is frequently 
 
 called buffalo grass, although that name strictly belongs to another 
 
 plant (Buchloe dactyloides). On the arid plains of the West it is the 
 
 principal grass and is the main reliance for the vast herds of cattle 
 which are raised there. It grows chiefly in small, roundish patches 
 closely pressed to the ground, the foliage being in a dense, cushion-like 
 mass. The leaves are short and crowded at the base of the short 
 stems. The flowering stalks seldom rise over a foot in height, and bear 
 near the top one or two flower-spikes, each about an inch long, and from 
 one-eighth to one-quarter of an inch wide, standing out at right angles 
 like a small flag floating in the breeze. Where much grazing prevails, 
 however, these flowering stalks are eaten down so much that only the 
 mats of leaves are observable. In bottom-lands and low, moist ground 
 it grows more closely, and under favorable circumstances forms a pretty 
 close sod, but even then it is not adapted for mowing, although it is 
 sometimes cut, making a very light crop. Under the most favorable 
 circumstances the product of this grass is small compared with the 
 cultivated grasses. It is undoubtedly highly nutritious. Stock of all 
 kinds are fond of it and eat it in preference to any grass growing with 
 it. It dries and cures on the ground so as to retain its nutritive 
 properties in the winter. Xo attempt is made by stockmen to t'avd cat- 
 tle in the winter; they are expected to "rustle around," as the phrase 
 is, and find their living; and in ordinary winters, as the fall of snow is 
 light, they are enabled to subsist and make a pretty good appearance 
 in the spring; but in severe winters there are losses of cattle, some- 
 times very heavy ones, from want of feed. (Plate 62.) 
 
 Bouteloua racemosa (Mesquite Grass; Tall Grama Gra 
 
 This species ranges from Mexico to British America and east of the 
 Mississippi Eiver, in Wisconsin and Illinois. It is easily distinguished 
 from the others by its taller growth and by the long, slender raceme of 
 twenty to fifty or more slender spikes. These are usually about half 
 an inch long and reflexed. There are from six to ten spikelets on each 
 spike. Although eaten by cattle, especially when made into hay. it is 
 not so much relished as some other kinds. 
 
 There are about a dozen other species of this genus occurring more 
 or less extensively in the Southwest, chiefly in New Mexico and Arizona, 
 
58 
 
 all of which are nutritious grasses, bat seldom occurring in sufficient 
 
 quantity to be particularly important. (Plate 63.) 
 
 ELEUSINE. 
 
 Spikes two to five or more, finger-like, at the summit of the col id, sometimes a few 
 scattering ones lower down; spikelets sessile ami crowded along one side of the 
 rhaehis; two to six (orniore)-flowered, the uppermost flowers imperfect or rudimentary; 
 outer glumes membranaceous, shorter than the spikelet; flowering glumes usually 
 obtnse ; palet folded, two-keeled. 
 
 Eleusine Indica (Yard Grass; Crow-foot; Crab Grass; Wire Gross). 
 
 The culms are from 1 to 3 feet high, usually coarse and thick, and very >eafy, es- 
 pecially below. The leaves are long and rather wide. At the top of the culm there are 
 two to five or more thickish densely-flowered spikes proceeding from a common point, 
 with sometimes one or two scattering ones lower down on the clnm. The spikelets 
 are sessile and crowded along one side of the axin, each being from two to six-flow- 
 ered, the upper flower imperfect or rudimentary ; the outer glumes are membranaceous, 
 shorter than the flowers, the flowering glumes usually obtuse; the palet folded and 
 two-keeled. 
 
 An annual grass belonging to tropical countries, but now naturalized 
 in most temperate climates. In the Southern States it is found in 
 every door-yard and in all waste places. 
 
 Professor Phares, of Mississippi,, says : 
 
 The clumps have many long leaves and stems rising 1 or 2 feet high, and many 
 long, strong, deeply-penetrating, fibrous roots. It grows readily in door-yards, barn- 
 yards, and rich, cultivated grounds, and produces an immense-quantity of seeds. It is 
 a very nutritious grass, and good for grazing, soiling, and hay. The succulent lower 
 part of the stems, covered with the sheaths of the leaves, render it difficult to cure 
 well, for which several days are required. It may be cut two or three times, and 
 yields a large quantity of hay. 
 
 (Plate 64.) 
 
 Eleusine iEgyptiaca (Crow-foot.) 
 
 Two species of grass in the Southern States have received the name 
 of crow-foot, viz : Eleusine Indica and Eleusine JEgyptiaea, or, as it is 
 sometimes called, Dactyloctenium JEgyptiacum. Dr. IT. W. Eavenel, of 
 Aiken, S. C, states that in the lower and middle portions of that State 
 the name of goose grass is generally applied to the former, while the 
 latter is universally called crow foot. E. Indira, he says, is confined 
 to rich waste places and old yards and gardens, and is rarely or never 
 seen in ordinary cultivated fields, and is never used for hay, because 
 it is found only in tufts and sparsely, whilst E. JEgyptiaca, is as abun- 
 dant as crab grass (Panieum sanguinale) in all cultivated fields, and it 
 is commonly used for hay. 
 
 This is an important distinction, which ought to be generally known 
 and noticed in our popular account of these grasses. (Plate 05.) 
 
BUCHLOE. 
 Buchloe dactyloides (Buffalo Grass). 
 
 This grass is extensively spread over all the region known as the 
 Great Plains. It is very low, the bulk of leaves seldom rising more than 
 3 or 4 inches above the ground, growingin extensive tufts, or patches, 
 
 and spreading largely by means of stolons or off-shoots similar to those 
 of the Bermuda grass, these stolons being sometimes 2 feet long, and 
 with joints every 3 or 4 inches, frequently rooting and sending up 
 flowering culms from the joints. The leaves of the radical tufts are :; 
 to 5 inches long, one or one-half line wide, smooth or edged with a few- 
 scattering hairs. The flowering culms are chiefly dioecious, but some- 
 times both male and female flowers are found on the same plant, but 
 in separate parts. Next to the grama grass it is, perhaps, the most 
 valuable plant in the support of the cattle of the plains. (Plate 00.) 
 
 TRIODIA. 
 
 Spikelets several to many-flowered in a strict spike-like or an open, spreading pan- 
 icle, some of the upper flowers male or imperfect; outer glumes keeled, acute or 
 acutish, awnless; flowering glumes imbricated, rounded on the back, at least below, 
 hairy or smooth, three-nerved, either mucronate, three-toothed, or tbree-lobed at the 
 apex, or obscurely erose, often hardened, and nerveless in fruit; palet broad, promi- 
 nently two-keeled. 
 Triodia seslerioides (Tall Redtop). 
 
 This grass grows from 3 to 5 feet high. The culms are very smooth; the leaves 
 are long and flat, the low'er sheaths hairy or smoothish. 
 
 The panicle is large and loose, at first erect, but finally spreading widely. The 
 branches are single or in twos or threes below, and frequently (5 inches long, divided 
 and flower-bearing above the middle. The spikelets are on short pedicels, '•> to 4 
 lines long and five or six-flowered. The outer glumes are shorter than the flowers, 
 unequal and pointed; the flowering glumes are hairy towards the base, having 
 three strong nerves, which are extended into short teeth at the summit. It is a large 
 and showy grass when fully matured, the panicles being large, spreading, and of a 
 purplish color. 
 
 It grows in sandy fields, and on dry, sterile banks, from New York 
 to South Carolina and westward. It is eaten by cattle when young, 
 but the mature culms are rather harsh and wiry and not relished by 
 them. It is, however, cut for hay where it naturally abounds. 
 
 The genus Triodia has its chief distribution in Texas and the adja- 
 cent region, where there are several species which seem to have some 
 importance in the grass supply of these arid districts. Among these 
 are Triodia trinerviglumis. Triodia stricta, Triodia Texana, and Triodia 
 acuminata. 
 
 These deserve further investigation. (Plate 07.) 
 
 ARTJNDO. 
 
 Tall grasses with an ample panicle, spikelets two to many-flowered, the dowers 
 rather distant, silky-hairy at the base, and with a conspicuous silky-bearded rhachis, 
 all perfect ; outer glumes narrow, unequal, glabrous, lanceolate, keeled, acute; flow- 
 ering glumes membranaceous, slender, awl-pointed; palets much shorter than the 
 glumes, two-keeled, pubescent on the keels. 
 
60 
 
 Arundo Donax (Giant Reed Grass). 
 
 This grass is often cultivated for its very ornamental plumes. It is 
 ii native.of Southern Europe, but is well established on the borders of 
 the llio Grande River, where it is probably indigenous, and has been 
 recommended for cultivation. 
 
 PHRAGMITES. 
 
 Only differing from Arundo in the lowest flower of the spikelets being 
 staminate only and glabrous. 
 
 Phragmites communis (Reed Grass). 
 
 A tall, coarse, perennial grass, growing on the borders of ponds and 
 streams, almost rivaling sorghum in luxuriance. It attains a height of 
 to 10 feet ; the culms sometimes an inch in diameter, and leaves 
 an inch or two in width. The panicle is from 9 to 15 inches long, 
 loose, but not much spreading, of an oblong or lanceolate form, 
 and slightly nodding. The branches are very numerous,, irregularly 
 whorled, 4 to 8 inches long, much subdivided, and profusely flowering. 
 The largest panicles form very ornamental plumes, almost equal to 
 those of Arundo Donax, so much cultivated for ornamental purposes. 
 It sometimes attains the height of 15 feet. It is resorted to by cattle 
 only when finer and more nutritious grasses fail, (Plate 68.) 
 
 KCELERXA. 
 
 Koeleria cristata. 
 
 This grass has a very wide diffusion, both in this country and in 
 Europe and Asia. It favors dry hills or sandy prairies, and on the 
 Great Plains is one of the commonest species. It occurs throughout 
 California and extends into Oregon. It varies much in appearance, 
 according to the location in which it grows, these varieties being so 
 striking that they have been considered different species ; and perhaps 
 two species ought to be admitted. It is perennial, with erect culms 
 usually from 1 to 2 feet high, and a spike-like panicle varying from 
 3 to G inches in length, and more or less interrupted or lobed at 
 the lower part. When grown in very arid places the culms may be 
 only a foot high, the radical leaves short, and the panicle only 2 
 inches long. When grown in more favored situations the radical leaves 
 are sometimes 18 inches long, the stem 3 feet, and the panicle 6 inches. 
 The branches of the panicle are, in short, nearly sessile clusters, crowded 
 above, looser and interrupted below. The spikelets are from two to 
 four-flowered. On the prairies west of the Mississippi it is ,one of the 
 commonest and most useful of the grasses. In Montana it is sometimes 
 called June grass. It is an early grass, ripening about the first of 
 July. ' (Plate C9.) 
 
61 
 
 ERAGROSTIS. 
 
 Spikelets Beveral; usually many-flowered, pedicellate <>r Bessile, in a loose and 
 spreading, or narrow and clustered panicle : the rhachis of the Bpikelets usual! 
 brons and articulate nndei the flowering glomes, but often tardily bo, and sometimes 
 inarticulate. Outer empty glumes unequal, and rather shorter than the flow* 
 ones, keeled, one-nerved; flowering glumes obtuse or acute, onawned, three-nerved, 
 the keel prominent, the lateral nerves sometimes very faint : palet shorter than the 
 glume, with two prominent nerves or keels, often persisting alter the glume and 
 grain have fallen away. 
 
 Eragrostis major. 
 
 This is a foreign grass which has become extensively naturalized, 
 
 not only in the older States, bat in many places in the Western and 
 Southwestern Territories. It is found in waste and cultivated grounds, 
 and on roadsides, growing in thick tufts, which spread out over the 
 grouud by means of the geniculate and decumbent culms. The calms 
 are from 1 to 2 feet long, the lower joints bent and giving rise to 
 long branches. The sheaths are shorter than the internodes, the 
 leaves from 3 to G inches long. The panicle is frequently 4 or 5 inches 
 long, oblong or pyramidal, somewhat open, but full-flowered; the 
 branches single or iu pairs, branched and flowering nearly to its base. 
 This grass is said to have a disagreeable odor when fresh. It produces 
 an abundance of foliage, and is apparently an annual, reaching impu- 
 rity late iu the season. We are not aware that its agricultural value 
 has been tested. (Plate 70.) 
 
 Eragrostis Abyssinica. 
 
 Eragrostis Abyssinica is a species which has been introduced from 
 Abyssinia, and cultivated in Florida and some of the Southern ami 
 Southwestern States, and is said to be remarkably productive and val- 
 uable for hay. It is an annual grass, growing to the height of 2 to 3 feet. 
 
 The native Abyssinian name of this grass is " teff 7 n and from the 
 seeds the Abyssinians make their bread. It may be cultivated with 
 ease at a height of G,000 or 7,000 feet above the sea-level, where maize 
 can hardly thrive. It comes to maturity in four months, yields forty 
 times its volume of seed, and, in the best variety, is said to make a 
 white, delicious bread. The traveler Biuce mentions teff with ap- 
 proval, aud there is some account of it in other books. The Royal 
 Gardens of Kew obtained a quantity of seed, of which they sent a por- 
 tion to the IT. S. Department of Agriculture, and by the Department 
 it has been distributed to the agricultural stations for trial. There 
 are many other species, but none of much agricultural importance. 
 
 DISTICHLIS. 
 
 Distichlis maritima (Salt Grass: Akaline Gi 
 It has strong, creeping root stocka covered with imbricated leaf-sheaths, Bending 
 
 up culms from G to IS inches high, which arc clothed nearly to the top with the 
 numerous, sometimes crowded, two-ranked Leaves. The leaves are generally rigid 
 
62 
 
 .and involute, sharp-pointed, varying greatly in length on different specimens. The 
 plants are dicecious, some being entirely male and some female. The panicle is 
 generally short and spike like, sometimes, especially in the males, rather loose, with 
 longer, erect branches, and sometimes reduced to a few spikelets. The spikelets are 
 from 4 to G inches long and live to ten-flowered, the flowers being usually much 
 compressed. The outer glumes are smooth, narrow, and keeled ; the flowering ones 
 are broader, keeled, acute, rather rigid, and faintly many-nerved. The palets have 
 an infolded margin, the keels prominent or narrowly winged. The pistillate spike- 
 lets are more condensed and more rigid than the staminate. 
 
 This is described in most botanical works as Bryzopyrum spicatum, but 
 recently the name given by Kafiuesque lias been accepted and restored 
 to it by Mr. Benthain. It is a perennial grass, growing in marshes 
 near the sea-coast on both sides of the continent and also abundantly 
 in alkaline soil throughout the arid districts of the Rocky Mountains. 
 
 Although this can not be considered a first-rate grass for agricultural 
 purposes, it is freely cut with other marsh grasses, and on the alkaline 
 plains of the Rockv Mountains it affords an inferior pasturage. (Plate 
 71.) 
 
 DACTYLIS. 
 
 Dactylis glomierata (Orchard Grass). 
 
 The culm and leaves roughish, the leaves broadly linear, light green, and five to 
 six on the culm. The panicle is generally but 2 or 3 inches long, the upper 
 part dense from the shortness of the branches ; the lower branches are longer and 
 spreading, but with the spikelets glomerated or closely tufted. The spikelets are 
 usually three to four-flowered, one-sided, and on short, rough pedicels. The glumes 
 arepoiuted and somewhat unequal, the upper one being smaller and thinner than the 
 lower. The flowering glumes are ovate-lanceolate, roughish, and ending in a sharp 
 point or short awn, and are rather longer than the outer glumes. 
 
 This is one of the most popular meadow grasses of Europe, and is 
 well known to most farmers in the Northern and Eastern States. It is a 
 perennial of strong, rank growth, about 3 feet high. 
 
 Professor Phares, of Mississippi, says: 
 
 Of all grasses this is one of the most widely diffused, growing in Africa, Asia, every 
 country of Europe, and all our States. 
 
 It is more highly esteemed and commended than any other grass, by a large num- 
 ber of farmers in most countries, a most decided proof of its great value and wonder- 
 ful adaption to many soils, climates, and treatments. Yet, strange to say, though 
 growing in England for many centuries, it Avas not appreciated in that country till 
 carried there from Virginia in 1764. But, as in the case of Timothy grass, soon after 
 its introduction from America, it came into high favor among farmers, and still re- 
 tains its hold on their estimation as a grazing and hay crop. It will grow well on 
 any soil containing sufficient clay and not holding too much water. If the land be 
 too tenacious, drainage will remedy the soil; if worn out, a top dressing of stable 
 manure will give it a good send-off, and it will furnish several mowings'the first year. 
 It grows well between 29 degrees and 48 degrees latitude. It may be mowed from 
 two to four times a year, according to latitude, season, and treatment, yielding from 
 1 to 3 tons of excellent hay per acre on poor to medium laud. It is easily cured 
 and handled. It is readily seeded and catches with certainty. It grows well in open 
 lands aud in forests of large trees, the underbrush being all cleared oif. I know but 
 one objection to it. Like tall oat grass it is disposed to grow in clumps and leave 
 
63 
 
 much of the ground uncovered. This may be obviated by thick seeding, using 
 
 2£ or, hotter, 3 bushels of seed per acre. The gaps may be prevented by sowing 
 with it a few pounds of redtop seed. But as the latter multiplies annually from 
 
 seeds dropping, it would in a few years root out the orchard grass. In common with 
 many others I prefer red clover witli orchard grass. It tills the gaps and matures at 
 the same time with the orchard grass; the mixture makes good pasture and good hay; 
 hut if mewed more than twice a year, or grazed too soon alter the second mowing, 
 the clover will rapidly fail. One peck of red clover seed and (i pecks of orchard 
 grass seed is good proportion per acre. 
 
 After being cut it has been found to grow 4 inches in less than three days. Sheep 
 leave all other grasses if they can hud this, and acre for acre it will .sustain twice as 
 many sheep or other stock as Timothy. Cut at the proper age it makes a much bet- 
 ter hay than Timothy, and is greatly preferred by animals, being easier to masticate, 
 digest, and assimilate; in fact more like green grass in flavor, tenderness, and solu- 
 bility. 
 
 Mr. J. S. Gould, of Xew York, says : 
 
 The testimony that has been collected from all parts of the world for two centuries 
 past establishes the place of this species among the very best of our forage gra 
 and wo have not a shadow of a doubt that the interests of our graziers and dairymen 
 would be greatly promoted b} 7 its more extended cultivation. It is always found in 
 the rich old pastures of England, where an acre of land can be relied on to fatten a 
 bullock and four sheep. It is admirably adapted for growing in the shade, no grass 
 being equal to it in this respect, except the rough-stalked meadow grass (Poa tri- 
 vialis). It receives the name of orchard grass from this circumstance. We have 
 seen it growing in great luxuriance in dense old New England orchards, where no 
 other grass exeept Poa trivialis would grow at all. It affords a good bite earlier in 
 the spring than any other grass except the meadow foxtail (Alopccurus pratensw). 
 It affords a very great amount of aftermath, being exceeded in this respect by no 
 other grass except Kentucky blue grass (Poa pratemis), and it continues to send out 
 root-leaves until very late in the autumn. When sown with other grasses its tend- 
 ency to form tussocks is very much diminished ; indeed it is always unprofitable to 
 sow it alone in meadows or pastures, as it stands too thin upon the ground to make a 
 profitable use of the land, and the tilling up of the interspaces with other varieties 
 greatly improves the quality of the orchard grass by restraining its rankness and 
 making it more delicate. 
 
 From Column's Rural World : 
 
 Orchard grass makes good winter pasturage, equally as good as blue grass, and far 
 better pasturage in seasons of drought than blue grass, as it is a deeper and larger- 
 rooted plant and resists drought better. When once established it can be fed as 
 closely as any other grass, and is no harder on land than any other, indeed, laud 
 pastured in orchard grass will continue to improve in fertility. If half of each of 
 our farms were well seeded to orchard grass it would bo a great advantage to them. 
 
 From the Farmers Home Journal: 
 
 This is one of the most valuable of all the grasses, and is better adapted to the 
 South than any other with which we are acquainted. Its rapidity of growth and 
 the luxuriance of its aftermath, its power of enduring drought and the cropping of 
 cattle, commended it highly to the farmer, especially as a pasture grass, and it is 
 rapidly growing fti favor. It starts earlier in the spring, and continues growing 
 later in the fall, and starts agaiu more quickly after being cut, than any other grass, 
 thus furnishing both the earliest and latest grazing. Orchard grass is less exhaust- 
 ing to the soil than Timothy. It will endure considerable shade. In a porous sub- 
 soil its fibrous roots extend to a great depth. It does well ou auy soil of even mod- 
 erate fertility which is not too wet for grass, and will grow and thrive where no other 
 
64 
 
 grass will. It does besl on a sandy loam with a porous subsoil, but will grow on a 
 sand-bank if made rich enough. When sown alone, we would sow 2 bushels to 
 the acre. From the nature of its growth thick seeding is necessary to secure the best 
 results, and we think the farmer will never regret the extra first cost of sowing two 
 
 bushels per acre. 
 
 When sown thickly and properly protected from grazing it forms a close and very 
 durable turf. Nothing will hurt it except plowing. As to time of sowing, it may be 
 sown in August. September, October, February, March, or April, alone, or on wheat, 
 rye, or oats. Hay made from a mixture of this grass with clover is very nutritious, 
 second only to best Timothy hay made, falling very little behind it, while in 
 most lands in the South the yield will exceed that of Timothy. 
 
 Orchard grass is ready for grazing in the spring ten or twelve days sooner than any 
 other that affords a full bite. When grazed down and the stock turned oft', it will be 
 ready for regrazing in less than half the time required for Kentucky blue grass. 
 
 (Plate 72.) 
 
 POA. 
 
 Spikelets somewhat compressed, usually two to five-flowered, in a narrow or 
 loose and spreading panicle, the rhachis between the flowers glabrous or sometimes 
 hairy, the flowers generally perfect, in a few species ditecious : outer glumes com- 
 monly shorter than the flowers, membranaceous, keeled, obtuse or acute, one to three- 
 nerved, not awned : flowering glumes membranaceous, obtuse ar acute, five or rarely 
 seven-nerved, the intermediate nerves frequently obscure, often scarious at the apex 
 and margins, smooth or pubescent, often with a few loose or webby hairs at the 
 base: palet about as long as the flowering glumes, prominently two-nerved or two- 
 keeled. 
 
 Poa arachnifera (Texas Blue Grass). 
 
 This species was first described by Dr. John Torrey in the report of 
 Captain Marcy's exploration of the Ked River of Louisiana, as having 
 been found on the headwaters of the Trinity, and named Poa arach- 
 nifera from the profuse webby hairs growing about the flowers, although 
 it is found that this character is very variable, probably depending 
 somewhat on the amount of shade or exposure to which the grass is sub- 
 jected. 
 
 Several years ago Mr. Hogan, of Texas, sent specimens of the grass 
 to this Department, and as it was shown to be a relative of the Ken- 
 tucky blue grass, Mr. Hogan adopted for the common name Texas blue 
 grass. We give some extracts from his letters relating to the grass : 
 
 I find it spreading rapidly over the country, and I claim for it all and more in Texas 
 than is awarded to the Poa pratens'xs. It seems to be indigenous to all the prairie 
 country between the Trinity River and the Brazos in our State. It blooms here about 
 the last of March, and ripeus its seeds by the 15th of April. Stock of all kinds and 
 even poultry seem to prefer it to wheat, rye, or anything else grown in winter. It 
 seems to have all the characteristics of Poa pratensis, only it is much larger, and 
 therefore affords more grazing. I have known it to grow 10 inches iu,teu days dur- 
 ing the winter. The coldest winters do not even nip it, and although it seems to die 
 down during summer, it springs up as soon as the first rains ftill in September, 
 and grows all winter. I have known it in cultivation some five years, and have never 
 been able to find a fault in it. It will be ready for pasture in three or four weeks 
 after the first rains in the latter part of August or 1st of September. I have never 
 cut it for hay. Why should a man want hay when he can have green grass to feed 
 his stock on ? 
 
- « 65 
 
 Mr. James E. Webb, of Greensboro ugb, Bale County, Ala., writing 
 to the Department December 26, 1888, says: 
 
 Recent experiments show that the Texas blue grass (Poa arachnifera) flourishes 
 and grows hero in west Alabama as finely as could be wished, and is like!) ere long 
 to furnish us what we so much need, a line winter grass. With Texas blue 
 Melilotus and Bermuda grass, Alabama is a line stock country. 
 
 Mr. S. C. Tally, of Ellis County, Texas, has sent specimens of this 
 grass. He says it is abundant there, bears heavy pasturing, and makes 
 a beautiful yard or lawn grass. 
 
 Similar favorable accounts have been received from others. It is 
 likely to prove one of the most valuable grasses for the South and 
 Southwest. By means of its strong stolons or offshoots it multiplies 
 rapidly and makes a dense, permanent sod. It produces an abundance 
 of radical leaves which often become 2 feet in length, and those of the 
 culms are smooth and of good width, about 4 to 8 inches long 
 and 2 lines wide. The culms are 2 to 3 feet high, each with two or 
 three leaves, with long sheaths and blade, the upper leaf sometimes 
 reaching nearly to the top of the panicle. The ligule is round and 
 short, or lacerated when old. The panicle is from 3 to 8 inches in length, 
 rather narrow, and with short, erect branches of equal length, in clus- 
 ters of from three to five, the longest seldom 2 inches, most of them 
 short, some nearly sessile and profusely flowering to the base. The 
 spikelets usually contain about five flowers. 
 
 In many cases there is a remarkable development of long, silky hairs 
 at the base of each flower, but sometimes these are quite absent. (Plate 
 73.) 
 
 Poa compressa (English Blue Grass; Wire Grass). 
 
 This species has sometimes been confounded with the Kentucky blue 
 grass, from which it differs in its flattened, decumbent, wiry steins, its 
 shorter leaves and shorter, narrower, and more scanty panicle. It is 
 found iu many old pastures, on dry banks, and in open woods. The 
 culms are hard and much flattened, 1 foot to 18 inches long, more or 
 less decumbent, and frequently bent at the lower joints. The leaves 
 are scanty, smooth, short, and of a dark, bluish-green color. The pan- 
 icle is short and contracted, 1 to 3 inches long. Very contradictory 
 accounts have been given as to its agricultural value, some denouncing 
 it as worthless and others entertaining a good opinion of it. It thrives 
 well on clay or hard, trodden, and poor soils. 
 
 Hon. J. S. Gould says, respecting it: 
 
 It is certain that cows that feed upon it both in pasture and in bay give more milk 
 and keep in better condition thau when fed on any other grass. Horses fed on this 
 hay will do as well as when fed on Timothy bay and" oats combined. 
 
 These discrepant opinions may be due in part to having mistaken 
 the Poa pratensis for this grass. It is probably a nutritious grass, but 
 from its spare yield can hardly obtaiu much favor for a hay crop. 
 (Plate 74.) 
 
 3591 GR 5 
 
66 ' 
 
 Poa pratensis (June Grass ; Kentucky Blue Grass ; Spear Grass). 
 
 A perennial grass, growing usually H to 2 feet high, with an abundance of long, 
 soft, radical leaves, and sending off numerous running shoots from the base. The 
 panicle is pyramidal or obloug in outline, from 2 to 4 inches long, the branches 
 mostly in lives, at least below, 1 to 2 inches long, open and spreading, the longer 
 ones flowering above the middle. The spikelets are about 2 lines long, ovate, 
 closely three to five-flowered, mostly on very short pedicels. The outer glomes are 
 acute; the flowering ones acute or acutish, five-nerved, the lateral nerves prominent, 
 the lower part of the lateral nerves and of the keel more or less hairy, and the base 
 clothed with webby hairs. 
 
 There are several well-marked varieties, which are much modified 
 and improved by cultivation. It is indigenous in the mountainous re- 
 gions of this country as well as of Europe, and has been introduced into 
 cultivation in many countries. 
 
 Its principal use is as a pasture grass and for lawns. For hay-mak- 
 ing there are many other grasses which furnish a heavier and more 
 profitable crop. It is a grass which seems to require special conditions 
 to bring out its best qualities, and hence it is held in very light or very- 
 great estimation in different regions. In England it is used but little, 
 and never sown alone, but is generally recommended as a constituent 
 of permanent pastures because of the earliness of its growth. In New 
 Zealand, where it has been introduced, it is considered a curse rather 
 than a blessing, because it overruns alike pastures and cultivated 
 ground, and is as difficult of extermination as quack grass (Agropyrum 
 repens). It varies much in size and appearance according to the soil in 
 which it grows. 
 
 In all the Middle and Eastern States it forms the principal constitu- 
 ent of pastures, but in some parts it is not highly esteemed. From the 
 unexampled success its cultivation has met with in Kentucky it has 
 acquired the name of Kentucky blue grass. 
 
 The following very valuable notes on this grass are from the pen of 
 Major Alvord, in Cassell, Peter & Co.'s work on Dairy Farming : 
 
 The Poa pratensis of the botanist has cbtained a very wide reputation as the Ken- 
 tucky blue grass, and led many into the mistaken belief that it was a peculiarly 
 American grass, confined to the famous pastures of the region whence it derived its 
 name. On the contrary, it is one of the most common grasses in nearly all parts 
 of the country, being variably known as June grass, green meadow grass, com- 
 mon spear grass, and Rhode Island bent grass, and it is the well-known smooth- 
 stalked meadow grass, or greensward, of England. There is no grass that accommo- 
 dates itself to any given locality with greater facility, whether it be the Missisippi 
 Valley, New England, Canada, the shores of the Mediterranean, or the north of Rus- 
 sia. It is found thriving upon gravelly soils, alluvial bottoms, and stiff clay lands 
 in the permanent pastures of Missouri, and along the roadsides of Minnesota. Soil 
 and climate cause varieties in fts size and appearance, and this protean habit ac- 
 counts for the various names by which it is known. 
 
 It probably attains its highest luxuriance and perfection as a pasture grass in the 
 far-famed blue grass district of Kentucky. The central part of Kentucky, an area of 
 15,000 square miles or more, over limestone foundation, seems to be the richest blue 
 grass country. There its seed-stalks are 2 to 3 feet high, with several long, parallel- 
 
G7 
 
 sided leaves to each plant, and radical leaves often numbering thirty to a stalk. The 
 root is perennial and throws off numerous and Long-creeping root-stocks, enabling it 
 
 to form a dense matted tuft. The chief reputation of this grass is as a pasture grass ; 
 the sod is easily obtained and very enduring, there being no such thing known as 
 
 its running out on good laud. Pastures sixty years unbroken afford their owners an 
 annual profit of at least flO an acre. It starts very early in the spring, and grows 
 rapidly after being grazed oil'. It will furnish more late feed than most grasses, and 
 no amount of pasturing is sufficient to utterly destroy it. It endure.-, the frosts ot 
 
 winter better than any other grass on the continent, and therefore pushes its way 
 northward into the Arctic Circle. Severe droughts injure blue grass, yet it grows as 
 far south as the hilly parts of Georgia and Alabama, and in Arkansas, not, however, 
 as vigorously as farther north. Although in a drought it often becomes dry enough 
 to burn, it, is greedily eaten by stock ; it dries full of nourishing properties, and cattle 
 will fatten upon it unless it has been drenched with rains. Blue grass can not lie re- 
 commended for the meadow, as it is hard to cut and difficult to cure; the foliage is 
 too short and too light after being dried. 
 
 It is an excellent grass for lawns, as it makes a dense, uniform mat of verdure, 
 and sends up but one flowering stem u year; for this purpose it is thickly seeded and 
 and kept closely mown. 
 
 An experienced Kentucky agriculturist says the seasou of sowing 
 may be any time from August to April. 
 
 The seed should be sown from 1| to 2| bushels per acre, and lightly brushed in on 
 a well-prepared surface. The seed may be sown on a grain held without any prepara- 
 tion. Some prefer to sow on small grain in February or March, on the snow. One 
 advantage in this is the evenness with which the seed may be sown. If the sowing 
 is done later it would be advisable to harrow the held before suwing it, and roll it 
 afterward. A very loose or open surface is fatal to blue grass in the young state if 
 the weather be the least dry. No stock should be permitted on the grass the first 
 year. Blue grass is sometimes destroyed in sandy soils by cattle, which in grazing 
 pull it up. In stiff clay this is not so likely to happen. 
 
 (Plate 75.) 
 
 Poa serotina (Fowl Meadow Grass). • 
 
 Culms erect, 2 or 3 feet high, without running rootstocks. The leaves are nar- 
 rowly linear, 3 to 6 inches long, and 2 to 3 lines wide, the sheaths long, smooth, and 
 striate, the ligules long. The panicle varies with the size of the plant, from 5 to 10 
 or 12 inches long and 1 to 3 inches wide and lax; the branches mostly in fives or 
 more numerous, nearly erect, from 1 to 4 inches long, the longer ones subdivided and 
 tlowering above the middle. There are some mountain forms or varieties in which 
 the culms are 1 foot or less in height and the panicle greatly reduced. The spike- 
 lets are 1 to 2 lines long, two to five-flowered, on short pedicels. The outer glumes 
 are about 1 line long and sharp-pointed. The flowering glume is rather obtuse, the 
 lateral nerves not prominent, slightly pubescent on the margins below, and somewhat 
 webby at the base. 
 
 This species is most common in the Northern States, particularly in 
 Xew England, New York, and westward to Wisconsin, and also in re- 
 duced forms in all mouutainous districts. « 
 
 Professor Beal says : 
 
 The name fowl meadow grass is said to have been applied to this grass because 
 ducks and other wild water-birds were supposed to have introduced the grass into a 
 poor, low meadow in Dedham, Mass. 
 
68 
 Mr. J. S. Gould, ot Xew York, says : 
 
 I have found it to grow on almost every kind of soil, bnt it attains the greatest 
 perfection in a rich, moist one. It is one of those grasses that thrive best when 
 combined with others; it will not make a superior turf of itself, but it adds much 
 to the value of a .sward from its nutritive qualities and powers of early and late 
 growth. As it perfects an abundance of seed it may be easily propagated. 
 
 Professor Phares, ot Mississippi, says : 
 
 In portions of the Western States the grass has for some years been very highly 
 recommended. In the Eastern States it has been cultivated for one hundred" and 
 fifty years or longer and valued highly. Jared Elliott, in 1749, spoke of it as grow- 
 ing tall and thick, making a more soft and pliable hay than Timothy and better 
 adapted for pressing and shipping for use of horses on shipboard. He says it makes 
 a thick abundant growth on land more moist than is adapted to common upland 
 grasses, and may be mowed any time from June to October, as it never becomes so 
 coarse and hard, but the stalk is sweet and tender and eaten without waste. It has 
 not been sufficiently cultivated iu the Southern States, so far as I am aware, to know 
 how long a meadow set with it may remain profitable. It is, however, worthy of 
 extended trial. 
 
 Mr. Charles L. Flint says : 
 
 It grows abundantly in almost every part of Xew England, especially where it has 
 been introduced and cultivated in suitable ground, such as the borders of rivers and 
 intervals occasionally hooded. It never grows so coarse or hard but that the stalk 
 is sweet and tender, and eaten without waste. It is easily made into hay, and is a 
 nutritive and valuable grass. 
 
 (Plate 70.) 
 
 Poa tenuifolia. 
 
 This species, in several varieties, is common in California, Oregon, 
 Montana, etc., and is one of the numerous bunch grasses referred to in 
 the accounts of the wild pasturage of that country. The foliage of some 
 forms is scanty, but of others the radical leaves are long and abundant. 
 It is stated that the Indians gather its seeds for food. (Plate 77.) 
 
 Poa trivialis (Rough-stalked Meadow Grass). 
 
 This species very much resembles the Port pratensis. It is distin- 
 guished chiefly by its having rough sheaths, by its long, pointed ligtiles, 
 its fibrous roots, and the smooth, marginal nerves of the flowering 
 glnines, whereas in Poa })ratcnsis the sbeaths are smooth, the ligules 
 obtuse, the root stock running, and the marginal nerves of the flowering 
 glumes are hairy. 
 
 It has been little cultivated by itself in this country, but is sometimes 
 found in low meadows or on the banks of shaded streams. It flourishes 
 best in low or wet ground and in shaded situations, and is not so well 
 adapted to general cultivation as the blue grass. 
 
 Professor Phares, of Mississippi, says: 
 
 It is especially adapted to wood pastures, as it delights in shade, banks of streams, 
 and moist ground generally. It bears tramping, and is an excellent pasture grass. 
 It makes a good mixture with redtop and tall oat grass, and with other pasture 
 grasses. 
 
69 
 
 Poa trivialis var. occidentalis : 
 
 Tbis grass, apparently a variety of Poa trivialis, appears to be indige- 
 nous in Colorado and New Mexico, li lias a larger, looser panicle 
 
 than the introduced plant. 
 
 Poa audina. 
 
 This is a smooth, rigid, perennial grass, growing on the great west- 
 ern plains in arid situations. It varies in height from 1 to 2 feet, with 
 short, rigid, pointed root-leaves, and with usually one or two stem- 
 leaves, the upper one with a very short blade, or almost none. The 
 panicle is close and rather dense, 2 to 3 inches long, the spikelets about 
 three flowered, the empty glumes rather large and broad, and tin' 
 flowering glumes pubescent on the nerves below. 
 
 It is probable that this species may be introduced with advantage 
 into cultivation in the arid districts of the West. (Plate 78.) 
 
 GLYCERIA. 
 
 Spikelets terete or flatfish, several to many- flowered, in a narrow or diffuse panicle, 
 the rhachis smooth, and readily disarticulating between the flowers; outer glumes 
 shorter than the iiowers, unequal, membranaceous, one to three-nerved, unawned; 
 flowering glume membranaceous to subcoriaceous, obtuse, awnless, more or Less hya- 
 line and denticulate at the apex, rounded (never keeled) on the back, live to nine- 
 nerved, the nerves separate, and all vanishing before reaching the apex: palet about 
 as long as its glume, two-keeled, entire or bifid at the apex. 
 
 The species of this genus are seldom employed in cultivation. They 
 mostly grow in wet or swampy ground, and where found in abundance 
 can be utilized for pasturage or hay-making. 
 
 Glyceria arundinacea (Tall Meadow Grass: Reed Meadow Grass). 
 
 This species is widely diffused in the northern portions of tlie United 
 States and Canada, and in the Rocky Mountains from Mexico to .Mon- 
 tana. It lias a stout, erect, leafy culm, 3 to 4 feet high. The leaves 
 are a foot or two long, a quarter to halt' an inch wide, flat, and some- 
 what rough on the edges. The panicle is large. 9 to 15 inches long, and 
 much brauched. (Plate 79.) 
 
 Glyceria Canadensis (Rattlesnake Grass: Tall Quaking Grass). 
 
 The culms stout, about 3 feet high, smooth and leafy. The leaves linear-laneco- 
 late,6 to 9 inches long, or the lower ones much Longer, about \ lines broad and rather 
 rigid. The panicle large and effuse. 6 to 9 inches long, oblong, pyramidal, and at 
 length drooping. The whorls an inch or more distant, the branches semi-verticillate, 
 mostly in threes, the largest :i to 4 inches long, and subdivided from near the base. 
 
 A grass belonging to the northern portion of the United States, usu- 
 ally fouud in mountainous districts, in swamps, and on river borders, 
 growing in clumps. It is quite an ornamental grass, resembling the 
 quaking grass (Bri.za). Cattle are fond of it. both green and when 
 made into hay. It is well adapted to low meadows. 
 
70 
 
 Glyceria fluitans (Floating Manna Gi 
 
 Culms arc usually :? to 1 feet high, rather thick and succulent, and quite leafy. 
 The leaves are 4 to 9 inches long, and :> to 4 lines wide. The panicle is often a foot 
 long, very narrow, the short distant branches mostly in twos or threes, 1 or '2 inches 
 long, erect and close, each having usually two or four spikelets. The spikelets are 
 half an inch to three-quarters of an inch in length, rather cylindrical and nearly of 
 the same thickness throughout, seven to thirteen-flowered. 
 
 This species grows in shallow water on the margins of lakes, ponds, 
 and sluggish streams. 
 
 Hon. J. S. Gould says : 
 
 This grass is found growing in shallow water, overflowed meadows, and wet woods, 
 but will bear cultivation on moderately dry grounds. Schreber says that it is culti- 
 vated in several parts of Germany, for the sake of tbe seeds, which form the manna 
 crop of the shops, and are considered a great delicacy in soups and gruels. When 
 ground into meal they make bread, very little inferior to that made from wheat. In 
 Poland large quantities of the seed are obtained for culinary purposes. All granivor- 
 ous birds are exceedingly fond of these seeds. Trout, and indeed most fish, are very 
 fond of them: wherever it grows over the banks of streams the trout are always 
 found in great numbers waiting to catch every seed that falls. 
 
 There is a great difference of opinion among agricultural writers with respect to the 
 fondnesss of animals for the leaves and culms of this grass. We have often seen the 
 ends of the leaves cropped by cattle, but have never seen the culms or root-leaves 
 touched by them. On the other hand, reliable writers have asserted that cattle, 
 horses, and swine were alike fond of it. 
 
 Glyceria nervata (Nerved Meadow Grass). 
 
 This is similar in appearance to the tall meadow grass, but is smaller, 
 with a lighter panicle and smaller flowers. It has also much the same 
 general range. It usually grows along the wet margins of streams and 
 swamps. It is nutritions and might be advantageously mixed with 
 other grasses in wet grounds. It is especially abundant in the Eocky 
 Mountains. It is sometimes improperly called fowl meadow grass. 
 Xo attention has been given to its cultivation in this country. In the 
 Woburn Agricultural Experiments conducted in England by the Duke 
 of Bedford, this grass was under trial, and was very highly esteemed. 
 Mr. Sinclair states that in February, 1811, after the severe winter pre- 
 ceding, this grass was perfectly green and succulent, while not one 
 species of grass, out of nearly three hundred that grew around it re- 
 mained in a healthy state, but were all inferior and more or less injured 
 by the severity of the weather. The aftermath was found to be re- 
 markably abundant and nutritive. It was found to be adapted to most 
 soils except such as were tenacious. Mr. Sinclair also said that further 
 experience in the cultivation of the grass enabled him to stare that it 
 possesses very valuable properties, and that it will be found a valuable 
 ingredient in permanent pastures, where the soil is not too dry, but of a 
 medium quality as to moisture and dryness. (Plate SO.) 
 
71 
 
 FESTUCA. 
 
 Spikelets three to many- dowered, variously panicled, pedicellate, rhachia of tbfl 
 spikelets nol hairy; outer glumes unequal, shorter tb.au the flowers, the lower one- 
 nerved, and the upper three-nerved, narrow, keeled, acute; flowering glume mem- 
 branaceous, cbartaceous, or subcoriaceous, narrow, ronnded on the back (no! 
 keeled), more or less distinctly three to rive-nerved, acute or tapering into a Btraight 
 awn, rarely obtusish; palet narrow, flat, prominently two-nerved or two-keeled. 
 
 Festuca elatior (Meadow Fescue Grass; Tall Fescue; Randall Grass). 
 
 A perennial grass, growing from 2 to 4 feet high, with flat, broadisb leaves about a 
 foot long. The panicle is .somewhat one-sided, loose, and spreading when in flower, 
 contracted after flowering, from b" to 10 inches long, the branches 1 to 2 inches long, 
 erect, mostly in pairs below, single above, subdivided; the spikelets are lanceolate 
 or linear, about half an inch long, five to ten-flowered. The flowering glume is lance- 
 olate, about three lines long, firm in texture, five-nerved, Bcarious at the margin, 
 acute, and sometimes with a short but distinct awn at the apex. 
 
 This is an introduced species now frequently met with in meadows; 
 it is one of the standard meadow grasses of Europe. Cattle are said to 
 be very fond of it, both green and as hay. 
 
 There is a smaller form or variety, which is the variety pratensis or 
 Festuca pratensis, Hudson. 
 
 Professor Killebrew, of Tennessee, writes of it as follows : 
 
 This grass has received some attention in different parts of the State, and has met 
 with a warm reception from those testing it. It ripens its seeds long before any other 
 grass, and consequently affords a very early nip to cattle. It has been raised under 
 various names in Virginia, as "Randall grass, "and in North Carolina as -'evergreen 
 grass." 
 
 Mr. James Taylor, writing from North Carolina, says : 
 
 The evergreen grass is very good for pasturing through the fall and winter. It will 
 do best when sown on dry land, and is well adapted to sheep. It grows well on rocky 
 soil to the height of 4 or 5 feet when ripe, continuing green in the spring, and af- 
 fording fine herbage throughout the winter. It is best to sow in the spring, with 
 oats. A peck of well-cleaned seed is enough for an acre, or a bushel in the chaff. It 
 ripens about the first of June. If sown in the spring this grass will not go to seed 
 before the next year, but if sown in the fall it will bring ^wd the next spring. From 
 the limited cultivation it has met with in Tenneesee, it seems to be better adapted to 
 moist, low lands, though I have seen it growing on some of the high ridges of Easi 
 Tennessee, at least 1,500 feet above the sea. There it thrives luxuriantly, and makes 
 a very superior pasture. 
 
 Professor Phares, of Mississippi, says : 
 
 It grows well in nearly ail situations, wet or dry, on hill or bottom land, even 
 though subject to overflow, and matures an extraordinary quantity of seed. The 
 seeds germinate readily, and it is easy to set a piece of land with this grass. Seeded 
 alone, 28 pounds, or about 2 bushels of seed, should be sown broadcast in August, 
 September, October, or from the middle of February to the 1st of April. From re- 
 maining green through the winter it is somel imes called " evergreen grass." Mowed 
 and dried it makes a good hay, much relished by stock. 
 
 (Plate 81.) 
 
72 
 
 Festuca ovina (Shesps* Fescoe). 
 
 A densely tufted, perennial grass, with an abundance of rather narrow, sometimes 
 involute, short, radical leaves, and slender culms. 1 to H feet high. The panicle is 
 •J to 4 inches, long, narrow, the branches mostly single and alternate, erect and few- 
 flowered; the spikelt-ts are mostly three to five-flowered, and about 3 lines long; 
 the outer glumes are acute ami narrow. The dowering glumes are lanceolate, two 
 lines long, roughish, and with a short, rough awn about half a line long. 
 
 This species Las many varieties both in this country and in Europe. 
 It is indigenous in the mountainous parts of New England, in the Rocky 
 Mountains, and in various northern localities. 
 
 As found in cultivation it has been derived from Europe. 
 
 Hon. J. S. Gould, of New York, says : 
 
 It forms the great bulk of the sheep pastures of the highlands of Scotland, where it 
 is the favorite food of the sheep, and where the shepherds believe it to be more nutri- 
 tious for their flocks than any other. Gmeliu says that the Tartars choose to encamp 
 during the summer where this grass is most abundant, because they believe that it 
 affords the most wholesome food for all cattle, but especially for sheep. Nature dis- 
 tributes it among dry. sandy, and rocky soils, where scarcely any other species would 
 grow. It is without doubt the very best of the grasses growing on saudy soils. It 
 roots deeply, and forms a dense, short turf, which adapts it admirably for lawns and 
 pleasure grounds, where the soil is saudy. It is almost useless as a hay crop, as its 
 leaves and culms are too fine to give a remunerative amount of hay ; it is only as a 
 pasture grass on sandy soils that it is valuable ; and in these, when highly manured, 
 it is driven out by the more succulent species. It is often found 4,000 feet above the 
 level of the sea. Its seeds weigh about 14 pounds to the bushel. 
 
 (Plate 82.) 
 
 Festuca scabrella (Bunch Grass).. 
 
 The culms are usually 2 to 3 feet high, erect, and smooth ; the radical leaves are 
 numerous, about half as long as the culms, generally rigid, involute, and scabrouson 
 the margins: the blade is prone to separate when old, leaving an abundance of leaf- 
 less sheaths at the base ; the cauline leaves are about two, short and poilited. 2 to 4 
 inches long ; the sheaths scabrous, the ligule short or wanting : the panicle is usually 
 3 to 5 inches long. 
 
 A perennial grass growing in strong clumps or bunches, and hence 
 called u bunch grass. n It is a native of the Rocky Mountain region, 
 from Colorado westward to California and Oregon. 
 
 In Montana it is called the great bunch grass and is one of the prin- 
 cipal grasses of that country. It is the prevailing species on the foot- 
 hills and mountain slopes at from 0,000 to 7,000 feet altitude. "It is 
 rather too hard a grass for sheep, but there is no grass more valued on 
 the ' summer ranges' for cattle and horses. It makes excellent hay 
 for horses and is cut in large quantities for this purpose. It grows in 
 large tussocks, making it rather a difficult grass to mow with a ma- 
 chine." It is one of the most important grasses of eastern Oregon and 
 Washington. (Plate 83.) 
 
73 
 
 BROMUS. 
 
 (Brome Grass.) 
 
 Spikelets five to many-flowered, in a dense, or lax, or diffuse panicle : the rhachis 
 between the flowers glabrons ; outer glumes more or Less unequal, shorter than the 
 lowest flower, membranaceous, acute, awnless, or short mncronate, one to oine- 
 nerved ; flowering glume from membranaceous to rigid, and Bubcoriaceous, rounded 
 
 on the back or compressed and keeled, five to nine-nerved, acute, and awned from 
 below the mostly two-cleft apex ; palet rather shorter than the glumes, two-keeled, 
 
 the keels rigid and ciliate; grain adhering to the palet. 
 
 Bromus secalinus (Chess; Cheat). 
 
 It is an old tradition which some farmers still cling to that chess is a 
 degenerated wheat; that the action of frost and other causes occasion 
 the deterioration, whereas the truth undoubtedly is that chess seed was 
 either in the land or in the seed sown, and, being more hardy than 
 wheat, it survived the frost and took possession of the ground. Sonic 
 years ago this grass had a temporary popularity under tin 1 name of 
 Willard's brome grass, but it was soon abandoned when brought into 
 competition with better grasses. 
 
 In the South it would perhaps be a good winter grass, like its relative 
 Bromus unioloides, but it is not as vigorous a grass as that species, 
 and does not produce such an abundance of foliage. (Plate 84.) 
 
 Bromus uuioloides (Schrader's Grass; Rescue Grass). 
 
 Iu its early growth it spreads and produces a large amount of leaves ; early in the 
 spring it sends up its flower stalks, which grow about 3 feet high, with a large, open, 
 spreading panicle, the ends of the hranchlets bearing the large, flattened spike- 
 lets, which, when mature, hang gracefully upon their stems, giving them quite ;m 
 ornamental appearance. These spikelets are from 1 inch to H inches in length, and 
 composed of two acute, lanceolate glumes at the base, and from seven to ten flowers, 
 arranged in two rows alternate on each side of the axis. The flowers are lanceolate, 
 or ovate-lanceolate, the flowering glume extending into a line point or short awn. 
 
 This is one of the so-called winter grasses; that is, it makes, iu the 
 South, a large share of its growth during the winter months. 
 
 During several years past this grass has been sent to the Depart- 
 ment, chiefly from Louisiana and Texas, and has been much com- 
 mended. Many years since the same grass w r as distributed and experi- 
 mented with under the name of Australian oats, or Bromus Schraderi. 
 It is not adapted to use in a country with severe winters, and hence 
 did not give satisfaction in all places. 
 
 Mr. C. Mohr, of Mobile, says of it: 
 
 Only of late years found spreading in different parts of this State : makes its ap- 
 pearance in February, grows in tufts, its numerous leafy stems growing from 2 to 
 3 feet high; it ripens the seed in May; affords in the earlier months of spring a 
 much-relished, nutritious food, as well as good hay. 
 
 It is said to have been introduced into Georgia by General Iverson, of 
 Columbus, and by him called rescue grass. The favorable opinion which 
 it at first received does not seem to have been well sustained in that 
 State. 
 
74 
 Professor Phares, of Mississippi, says : 
 
 This grass is also called Bromus Schraderi, Bromus Willdenovii,Ceratochloa unioloides, 
 and Festuea unioloides. It is an annual winter grass. It varies in the time of start- 
 ing growth. I have seen it ready for mowing the first of October, and furnish fre- 
 quent cuttings till April. Again, it may not start before January nor be ready to 
 cut till February. This depends on the moisture and depression of temperature of 
 the fall, the seeds germinating only at a low temperature. When once started, its 
 growth after the successive cuttings or grazings is very rapid. It is tender, very 
 sweet, and stock eat it greedily. It makes also a good hay. It produces an im- 
 mense quantity of leaves. On loose soil some of it may be pulled up by animals 
 grazing it. 
 
 (Plate 85.) 
 Bromus ciliatus. 
 
 A tall, coarse species, much addicted to rocky woodlands, but of no 
 agricultural value. 
 
 LOLIUM. 
 
 Spikelets several-flowered, solitary on each joint of the continuous rhachis of the 
 simple spike, placed edgewise against the rhachis, the glume wanting on the inside, 
 the outer empty glume nearly as long as, or longer than, the spikelets; flowering 
 glume rounded on Ihe back, not keeled ; palet shorter, two-keeled. 
 
 Lolium perenne (Italian Rye Grass). 
 
 A perennial grass, introduced from Europe. The culms are 2 to 3 feet high, very 
 leafy, and terminating in a loose, spike-like panicle, 6 inches or more in length. 
 The spikelets are arranged alternately on the axis, placed edgewise ; that is, with one 
 edge of the flat spikelet applied to the main stem at short distances, so that there 
 may be twenty or more in the panicle. The spikelets are one-half to three-fourths 
 of an inch long; generally seven to eleven-flowered. The inner empty glume is gen- 
 erally wanting, so that, except on the terminal spikelets, only one glume is apparent, 
 which is half or more than half the length of the spikelet, narrowly lanceolate, and 
 acute. The general appearance of the panicle is like that of couch grass (Agropyrum 
 repens). The flowering glumes are thickish, obscurely nerved, rather hispid, acutely 
 pointed, or, in the variety Italicum, with a rather long awn. The proper palets are 
 similar to the flowering glumes, and of nearly equal length. 
 
 An intelligent writer whom we have frequently quoted, says, respect- 
 ing this grass : 
 
 It occupies the same place in Great Britain that Timothy does with us, and is there 
 esteemed, on the whole, higher than any other species of grass, and is called rye grass 
 or ray grass. Of all the varieties of Lolium perenne which are known, that called 
 Italicum is by far the most valuable. Its spikelets are conspicuously bearded, the 
 flowers being all terminated by long, slender awns, which character distinguishes it 
 very easily from Lolium perenne. Its name (Italian rye grass) is derived from the fact 
 that its native habitat is on the plains of Lombardy, where broad and extensive plains 
 of pasture land are frequently inundated by the mountain streams which intersect 
 them. It is mainly adapted to irrigated meadows, and in these it is undoubtedly 
 superior to any other grass. 
 
 Professor Phares says: 
 
 This grass stands drought well aud grows most luxuriantly in our Southern States. 
 If not kept grazed or mowed, however, the leaves cover the ground so deeply and 
 densely that an excess of rain in very hot weather in the extreme South causes it 
 
75 
 
 to rot suddenly, destroying even the roots. Tliis I have never soon or hoard men- 
 tioned by any other person, bat it occurred 00 my own farm one .season, where I was 
 reserving a lot for seed. 
 
 (Plate 8G.) 
 Lolium temulentum (Poison Darnel). 
 
 This species is frequently found in grain fields. The seeds have 
 long enjoyed a reputation of being poisonous to stock, and also to man- 
 kind when mixed in large quantity with the wheat or rye used in 
 the making of bread. The question seems hardly yet decided, but it is 
 best to exterminate the grass as a weed and a pest. 
 
 AGROPYRUM. 
 
 Spikelets several-flowered (three to nine, or more), compressed, alternately sessile 
 on the continuous or slightly-notched rhachis of the simple spike, and with the side 
 against the rhachis; outer glumes nearly equal and opposite, membranaceous or 
 herbaceous, one to three-nerved, scarcely keeled, tapering to a point or awned; the 
 flowering similar to the outer ones, rounded on the hack ; three to seven-nerved, 
 pointed or awned from the apex; palet nearly as long as its glnme, the two prominent 
 nerves almost marginal, scahrous ciliate. 
 
 Agropyrum glaucum (Blue Stem ; Bluejoint). 
 
 This species, which has been considered a variety of the next, pre- 
 vails on the Western plains from Texas to Montana, and is well 
 known to stockmen. It differs from Agropyrum repens in having a 
 stiffer, more erect and rigid stem and leaves, the leaves often becoming 
 involute. It is generally of a light, bluish-green color. The spike is 
 generally shorter, denser, and with larger spikelets. 
 
 Professor Scribner, writing of this grass in Montana, says : 
 
 It is the most highly praised of the native grasses for hay. Wherever it occupies 
 exclusively any large area of ground, as it does frequently in the lower districts, 
 especialy near Fort Benton, it is cut for hay. Naturally it does not yield a great 
 bulk, hut its quality is unsurpassed. After two or three cuttings the yield of hay 
 diminishes so much that it is scarcely worth the harvesting. It is then customary to 
 drag a short-toothed harrow over the sod, which breaks up the creeping roots or 
 underground stems, and each fragment then makes a new plant. 
 
 The same valuable opinion of this grass is entertained by stockmen 
 in Nebraska, Colorado, and New Mexico. It occurs nearly everywhere, 
 but sparsely, on the plains, and extending quite up into the mountains. 
 In the valleys and along streams it frequently forms large patches and 
 grows closer and more abundant, when it is commonly cut for winter 
 use. (Plate 87.) 
 
 Agropyrum repens (Conch Grass; Quack Grass). 
 
 There has been a good deal of discussion relative to this grass, some 
 pronouncing it one of the vilest of weeds, and others claiming for it 
 high nutritive qualities overweighingall thedisadvantages of its growth. 
 Whichever party may be right, it is proper that farmers should be ac- 
 quainted with it in order to know how to treat it, and hence our de- 
 scription. It forms a dense sod by means of its far-reaching rhizomas or 
 root stocks, which have short joints, and roots tenaciously at every joint. 
 
76 
 
 It has an abundance of foliage, and sends up a flowering culm 2 to 3 
 feet high, which is terminated by a close, narrow spike of flowers from 
 3 to G inches long. This spike consists of a succession of closely set 
 spikelets, one at each joint of the axis, and placed flatwise with the side 
 against the stalk. Each spikelet contains several (three to eight) flow- 
 ers, with a pair of nearly equal and opposite three to five-nerved glumes 
 at the base. 
 
 Hon. J. S. Gould says : 
 
 The farmers of the United States unite in one continuous howl of execration against 
 this grass, and it seems strange, when every man's hand is against it, that it'is not 
 exterminated. Yet, we could never really satisfy ourselves that its presence in 
 meadows and pastures was such an unmitigated curse. In lands where alternate 
 husbandry is practiced it must be admitted to be an evil of great magnitude. Its 
 hardiness is such, and its rapidity of growth is so great, that it springs up much more 
 rapidly than any other crop that can be planted, and chokes it. Still, it has many 
 virtues. It is perfectly cosmopolitan in its habits. It is found in all sorts of soil and 
 climates. Its creeping roots are succulent and very nutritive, and are greedily de- 
 voured by horses and cows. 
 
 (Plate 88.) 
 
 Agi opyrum tenerum. 
 
 This grass prevails in the Rocky Mountain region from New Mexico 
 to Oregon, and has been commonly called a variety of Agropyrum re- 
 pens, from which it differs essentially in wanting the running root stalks, 
 in a narrower, nearly cylindrical spike, and in growing in clumps. It 
 occurs mostly in low, moist grounds, and, like the Agropyrum glaucum, 
 it is one of the best grasses for hay. It ripens in July, and affords very 
 little feed thereafter. 
 
 HORDEUM. 
 
 Inflorescence a dense spike, with two or three spikelets at each joint of the notched 
 rhachis ; spikelets one-flowered, with an awl-shaped rudiment of a second flower, the 
 central spikelet of the cluster perfect and sessile, the lateral ones short-stalked and 
 imperfect or abortive ; outer glumes side by side, two to eacb spikelet, usually slender 
 and awn-pointed, or bristle form ; flowering glume herbaceous, shorter, oblong, or 
 lanceolate, rounded on the back, not keeled, five-nerved, acute or long-awned ; palet 
 shorter, two-keeled. 
 
 Hordeum jubatum (Wild Barley ; Squirrel-tail Grass). 
 
 On the sea-coast and saline soil in the interior, especially on the Rocky 
 Mountains. It has no agricultural value, but its long-barbed awns are 
 injurious to the mouths of cattle. 
 
 Hordeum murinum. 
 
 Professor Brewer states that this grass, unfortunately, is extensively 
 naturalized in California and is a vile pest ; it comes in when land is 
 overstocked; is known there as "squirrel grass," "squirrel tail," "fox- 
 tail," and "white oats." The heads break up and the barbed seeds 
 work into the wool of sheep and even into the flesh of lambs, killing 
 them. It damages the eyes and throats of animals. 
 
77 
 
 Hordeum pratense. 
 
 An annual or biennial grass growing principally in alkaline soil in 
 the Western States and Territories. It is eaten by cattle when in a 
 young state, but when mature it is worthless and pestiferous on account 
 of its barbed awns. 
 
 ELYMUS. 
 
 Spikelets two to four at each joint of the rhachia of the simple stout spike, Bessile, 
 one to six-flowered ; outer glumes two for eaeb ; spikelets nearly side by side in it u 
 front, forming a kind of involucre for the cluster, narrow, rigid, one to three-nerved, 
 acuminate or awned ; flowering glumes herbaceous, rather shorter, oblong or lan- 
 ceolate, rounded on the back, not keeled, acute or awned; palet shorter than its 
 glume, two-keeled. 
 Elymus Canadensis (Wild Eye ; Rye Grass ; Lyme Grass). 
 
 A perennial, coarse grass, growing on river banks and in rich, shaded 
 woods. In some localities, especially on moist prairies and banks in the 
 west, it is quite common and is cut for hay. It should be cut early to 
 be of value. (Plate 89.) 
 
 Elymus condensatus (Giant Rye Grass.) 
 
 This is a perennial grass, ranging from San Diego throughout Cali- 
 fornia, and into Oregon and Washington Territory, also in the Rocky 
 Mountain region of the interior. It is very variable, but always a strong, 
 heavy rooted, coarse grass, from 3 to 5 or even to 12 feet high. Mr. Bo- 
 lander states that it seems to do excellent service by fixing the soil on 
 the banks of creeks and rivers. In the larger forms the culms are half 
 an inch thick. The leaves are smooth, 2 feet long and an inch wide or 
 more, and the panicle 8 to 14 inches long and 1£ inches thick. As it 
 usually occurs in arid grounds, it is from 3 to G feet high, the leaves 
 about 1 foot long and half an inch wide, and the spike-like panicle 4 to 
 8 inches. In the large form the branches of the panicle are subdivided 
 and 1 or 2 inches long. 
 
 Mr. W. G. Cusick, of Oregon, says : 
 
 This is a very valuable grass, commonly known as rye grass. In Baker County 
 large quantities are cut for hay, for which it is said to be excellent. It is also much 
 used as a winter forage plant. Cattle are driven into the dry bottoms, where it grows, 
 and live upon it when the shorter grasses are covered with snow. 
 
 (Plate 90.) 
 
 Elymus triticoides. 
 
 This has been considered a variety of Elymus condensatus, from which 
 it differs in having strong runners, and not growing in thick clumps, 
 but scattering and singly. Mr. Cusick says it is a valuable grass in 
 Oregon, and cut for hay in wild meadows. 
 
 Elymus Virginicus (Wild Rye Grass; Terrell Grass). 
 
 The culm is rather stout, 2 to 3 feet high, leafy ; the lower leaves are 10 to 15 inches 
 long, broad and rough. The sheath of the upper leaf usually incloses the stalk, 
 and sometimes the base of the flower-spike. This spike is erect, dense, and rigid, 2 
 to 4 or 5 inches long, and one-half inch thick. The epikelets are two or three to- 
 
78 
 
 gether at each joint, all alike ami fertile, sessile, two to five -flowered, and each with 
 a pair of empty glomes. These glomes are very thick and coarse, strongly nerved, 
 lanceolate and bristle-pointed, about 1 inch long. The floweriog glumes terminate 
 in a still', straight awn, half an inch to nearly an inch long, the lowest one in the 
 spikelets having the longest awn, the others gradually shorter. The palet is oblong, 
 obtuse, and as long as the flowering glume, excluding the awn. 
 
 A coarse, perennial grass, growing on alluvial river banks, or in rich, 
 low grounds. 
 
 This grass frequently forms a considerable portion of native meadow 
 lands, and makes a coarse bay. It starts growth early in the spring, 
 and thus affords a good pasturage. Professor Killebrew, of Tenuessee, 
 says it is very valuable and ought to be tried in cultivation. 
 
 Professor Phares, of Mississippi, says: 
 
 This perennial grass is a native of the Southern States. As all farm stock, except 
 hogs, are fond of it, and it is green through the winter and spring, it has been de- 
 stroyed when grazing animals have access to it at all times. It is, however, found in 
 many of our States, along the banks of wooded streams, of ditches, and in fence cor- 
 ners among briers and thickets. It will grow on thin clay, gravelly, or sandy soil, 
 but much better on rich lands, dry or rather moist, and will thrive ten, twenty, or 
 more years on the same land. 
 
 (Plate 91.) 
 
 ARTJNDINARIA. 
 
 Spikelets many-flowered, flattened, racemose or paniculate, the uppermost flowers 
 imperfect ; outer glumes very small, membranaceous, the upper one larger ; flowering 
 glumes much larger, membranaceo-herbaceous, convex on the back, not keeled, many- 
 nerved, acuminate, mucronate, or bristle-pointed; palet shorter than its glume, 
 prominently two-keeled. 
 Arundinaria tecta (Switch Cane ; Small Cane). 
 
 Professor Phares, of Mississippi, says of this grass : 
 
 This largest of our grasses has a hard, woody stem from one-half to 3 inches in diame- 
 ter, and from 10 to 40 feet high, erect, tapering from near the base, jointed every 8 to 12 
 inches for one-half the length or more, then the joints becoming shorter and smaller 
 to the top; leaves 1 to 2 inches wide, persistent, on clustered, spreadiug branches 
 which also are jointed and appear the second year. On rich laud in spring the young 
 stems shoot up full size, ten or twenty feet high, and are as crisp as asparagus, and 
 by some persons as much relished. Hogs, cattle, and other animals are fond of the 
 young plants and seeds. The age at which the large cane blooms has not been defi- 
 nitely decided. It probably varies with the latitude, soil, and surroundings, from 
 ten to thirty years. When the seeds mature the caue dies. Grazing animals feed 
 greedily on the leaves in the winter and find protection from the driving rains and 
 piercing winds under the dense roof of the canebrake or thicket. The stems are 
 used for fishing-rods, scaffolds for drying cotton, for pipe-stems and pipes, and splints 
 for baskets, mats, and other purposes. The small cane is different in habit from the 
 large cane. It blooms sometimes two or more consecutive years without dying down 
 to the root. Live stock like it as well as the large cane. Both grow best on rich 
 lands, hills, or bottoms; but they will grow on thin clay soil, improve it, and if pro- 
 tected from stock, rapidly extend by sending out long roots (rootstocks) with buds. 
 
 The small cane is found sparingly as far north as Baltimore, Md, 
 The large cane is probably conliued to the Gulf States, but this is un- 
 certain. 
 
CULTIVATED FORAGE PLANTS OTHER THAN GRASSES. 
 
 Order LEGUMINOS.E. 
 The Clover Family. 
 
 This order is characterized by having alternate, usually compound, loaves, with 
 stipules; flowers polypetalous, the calyx mostly five-lobed, the corolla generally with 
 five irregular petals, usually ten stamens, sometimes five, or many, usually united by 
 the filaments, or nine united and one free, or sometimes all distinct ; the ovary a one- 
 celled carpel, becoming a legume or pod with few or many seeds, the pod sometimes 
 marked into joints called foments. 
 
 The order embraces an immense number of plants of varying char- 
 acter, some small and insignificant, some trees of large size. Many 
 of the most useful vegetable products are obtained from it. 
 
 TRIFOLIUM. 
 
 (The Clovers.) 
 
 This genus is one of the most useful of the order and embraces a large 
 number of species, several of which are well known in cultivation. 
 
 The genus is characterized by having the leaves mostly trifoliate; that is, made up 
 of three leaflets at the end of the leaf-stalk ; some species have five or more leaflets, 
 either close together at the end of the leaf-stalk or somewhat scattered in opposite 
 pairs. The flowers are collected in roundisb or oblong heads, with or without a gen- 
 eral involucre. The calyx is five-toothed, the petals five, irregular, persistent ; nine 
 stamens united and one free ; the pod small, mostly inclosed in the calyx, and one to 
 four- seeded. 
 
 Trifolium pratense (Red Clover; Common Clover). 
 
 Red clover is so well known to the agricultural community that it 
 requires very little description. It is usually a perennial of a few years 
 duration, a native of Europe and Asia, but early introduced into this 
 country. Its cultivation is said to have begun in England about two 
 hundred and fifty years ago. It is one of the most important of culti- 
 vated crops, both for feed for animals and as an improver of the soil. 
 
 A writer in the Country Gentleman says : 
 
 No matter how mismanaged, clover is a benefit, and whatever else he may do, the 
 farmer who grows clover is making his farm better. It does not need cultivating ; the 
 long deep-reaching roots mellow and pulverize the soil as nothing else can. If it 
 grows thriftily the top acts as a mulch, seeding the ground and keeping it moist. A 
 crop of 2 tons or more of clover plowed under or cut for hay can hardly fail to 
 leave the ground better than it was before. It should be the farmer's aim to grow 
 the largest possible crop of clover. 
 
 79 
 
80 
 The Rural New Yorker says : 
 
 Ten acres of good clover are worth more than so much wheat, if the value of 
 what is left in the ground by the clover is taken into account. When a crop of 
 wheat is taken the ground is exhausted of so much of its fertility, which is carried 
 off in the wheat, but when a crop of clover is taken the soil is actually in better 
 condition than before, and is good enough to yield a crop of wheat or corn. 
 
 A Wisconsin farmer says : 
 
 If you want to clear your land of weeds, sow clover and sow it thick. If you want 
 to grow big corn-crops, grow clover and pasture off with hogs. Plow up the land in 
 the fall, and the corn-crop following will make you happy. If you want to make rich 
 farms and make money, grow clover, corn, and hogs. 
 
 Professor Beal says : 
 
 Red clover is well adapted to many portions of the temperate regions of the earth. 
 It likes best a soil of clay loam, rich in lime, but will thrive better than Timothy and 
 most other true grasses where the land is sandy or gravelly. On good grass-land it 
 is usually the custom to sow Timothy with red clover, although it blossoms some 
 three weeks later. Many prefer to sow orchard grass with clover, as they flower and 
 aie ready to cut at the same time. Timothy is well adapted to sow with the large, 
 late, or mammoth clover. 
 
 There, are some portions of the country where, owing either to cli- 
 mate or soil, red clover has not been successful, and in those places 
 some other leguminous plant can generally be substituted with advan- 
 tage. 
 
 Trifolium medium (Mammoth Clover). 
 
 The true botanical position of the clovers cultivated in this country 
 under the names of mammoth, sapling, or pea-vine clover, etc., is still 
 somewhat in doubt. They are usually regarded as being the above- 
 meutioned species, but are perhaps a variety or varieties of the com- 
 mon red clover, Trifolium pratense. 
 
 They agree in having a larger and later growth than the ordinary 
 red clover, and on this account are for some purposes more valuable. 
 
 The following records of experience may be relied upon for the lo- 
 calities mentioned. 
 
 Prof. Samuel Johnson, Agricultural College, Michigan : 
 
 It grows too rank and coarse to make good hay. For pasture or for manurial 
 purposes it might prove better than the smaller sort. When grown for seed it is 
 usually pastured until the 1st of June, and then allowed to grow up and mature 
 
 the crops. 
 
 M. C. Alger, Augusta, Michigan: 
 
 Pasturing until the first of June insures a larger yield of seed, as it is cooler while 
 filling, but many do not pasture. I do not think it can be cut more years than the 
 smaller kind. It is said to stand drought better, but I doubt that. -It will give 
 three times the amount of pasture during the season that is given by the smaller 
 kind if kept down pretty close, but during the fall the amount of pasture produced is 
 less. It is said to smother out in winter if a large amount is left on the ground. 
 Another objection is that it requires cutting just at harvest-time. 
 
81 
 C. M. Alger, Newaygo, Michigan : 
 
 I have raised the mammoth clover, but do not like it for my heavy land, as it grows 
 too large. For every acre that I raise I have to buy or borrow two more of my neighbor's 
 to cure it on. It is, however, excellent for pasture, as it stays on the ground longer 
 than the medium variety. It is good for raising swd, as it nearly always tills full. I 
 have seen 8 bushels per acre. The seed is always grown on the fust crop, as tin; 
 second neAer blossoms. It grows here from 4 to 5 feet high and is good for plow- 
 ing under for manure. 
 
 Austin Potts, Galesburgb, Michigan : 
 
 Perhaps not over 20 per cent, of the clover grown here is of the mammoth variety. 
 It does not seed as well as the common clover. 
 
 L. H. Bursley, Jeuisonville, Michigan : 
 
 I do not find it as good for hay as the common red clover : the stalks are so large 
 that stock will not eat them at all. For pasture it is better than the small variety. 
 It does not require pasturing in spring in order to produce a crop of seed. 
 
 James Hendricks, Albany, N. Y. : 
 
 About twenty years ago there was treble the quantity sown in this part of Albany 
 County that there is at present; now nearly all our farmers sow the medium clover 
 with Timothy. 
 
 Prof. F. A. Gully, Agricultural College, Mississippi : 
 
 On good laud with us it grows rank, and the long steins fall down and mat on the 
 ground, and if we happen to have wet weather the lower leaves and parts of the 
 stalk will begin to decay before the plant is in full bloom. 
 
 The secoud crop ripens seed, but to what extent I can not say ; I consider the 
 common red clover more desirable here, although it may not yield as well. 
 
 Trifolium hybridum (Alsike Clover). 
 
 This differs from common red clover in being later, taller, more ten- 
 der and succulent. The flower-heads are upon long peduncles, and are 
 intermediate in size and color between those of white and red clover. 
 The botanical name was so given from its being supposed by Linnreus 
 to be a hybrid between those clovers, but it is now known to be a dis- 
 tinct species. It is found native over a large part of Europe, and was 
 first cultivated in Sweden, deriving its common name from the village 
 of Syke in that country. In 1834 it was taken to England, and in 1851 
 to Germany, where it is largely grown, not only for its excellent forage 
 but also for its seed, which commands a high price. In France it is 
 little grown as yet, and is frequently confounded with the less produc- 
 tive Trifolium elegans. 
 
 The following is condensed from "Les Prairies Artificielles, 7 ' by Ed. 
 Vianno, of Paris : 
 
 Alsike does not attain its full development under two or three years, 
 and should therefore be mixed with some other plant for permanent 
 meadows. It is best adapted to cool, damp, calcareous soil, and gives 
 good results upon reclaimed marshes. It is adapted neither to very dry 
 soils, nor to those where there is stagnant water. Being of slender 
 growth, rye grass, rye, or oats are often sown with it when it is to be 
 3594 GR 6 
 
82 
 
 mowed. In fertile ground weeds are apt to diminish the yield after a 
 few years, so that it requires to be broken up. It is generally sown in 
 May, at the rate of G or 7 pounds of the clean seed per acre. Some- 
 times it is sown in the pods at the rate of 50 to 100 pounds per acre, 
 either in spring or in autumn after the cereals are harvested. 
 
 Alsike sprouts but little after cuttiug, and therefore produces but one 
 crop and one pasturage The yield of seed is usually 130 to 170 pounds 
 per acre. The seed separates more easily from the pods than that of 
 ordinary clover, and as the heads easily break off when dry, care is 
 required in harvesting. 
 
 It does not endure drought as well as the common red clover, but 
 will grow on more damp and heavy soils, and it is said that it can grow 
 on laud which, through long cultivation of the common clover, has be- 
 come 4t clover sick." (Plate 92.) 
 
 Trifolium incarnatum (French Clover). 
 
 This annual clover is a native of Europe. It grows to the height of 
 about 2 feet. The heads are about 2 iuches long, very densely flowered, 
 with the petals ranging from a pinkish to a crimson color. 
 
 It has been introduced and tried to some extent for cultivation in 
 this country, but has not met with much favor. It deserves trial, how- 
 ever, in the dry climates of the West. (Plate 93.) 
 
 Trifolium repens (White Clover ; Dutch Clover). 
 
 This is a small perennial species, with prostrate stems which take root 
 strongly at the joints. It is said to be the shamrock of Ireland. It is 
 a native of Europe and Northern Asia, and has been introduced into, 
 and naturalized in, many other countries. It is said that, although in- 
 digenous in England, it only began to be cultivated at the beginning 
 of the eighteenth century. On account of its creeping habit, when once 
 established, it soon covers the ground and spreads extensively. Mr. 
 Sutton, an English writer, says : 
 
 It prospers on mellow land containing lime, and on all soils rich in humus, from 
 marl to gravelly clay. It does better in poor land than red clover. In early spring 
 it produces very little food, and the plant is so dwarfed that it is practically useless 
 for cutting for a crop of hay. Still, perennial white clover forms an essential con- 
 stituent of every good pasture. All cattle eat it with relish, but it is of less use for 
 the production of milk than of flesh, and is of special service in fattening sheep. It 
 is not suitable for culture by itself, and its herbage is better for cattle when mingled 
 with other grasses, especially with perennial rye grass. 
 
 A correspondent of Farm and Home says : 
 
 Every pasture should contain some white clover. It will afford more feed at certain 
 times of the year than grass or any other kind of clover. It will not flourish in damp 
 soils, or those that are very poor. It will do well iu a partial shade*, as a grove or 
 orchard, but to make the highest excellence it should have the advantage of full sun- 
 light. It is easy to secure patches of white clover in a pasture hy scattering seed in 
 early spring on bare places and brushing it in. One pound of seed iy enough to start 
 white clover in a hundred places. The disposition of this clover is to spread by means 
 of the branches that run along the ground and take root. 
 
83 
 
 Prof. W. J. Beal, of Michigan Agricultural College, says: 
 
 White clover is a fickle plant, coining and going with the varying seasons. It often 
 
 burns out in hot weather. An old, hard road, once abandoned, is likely to send up 
 white clover in advance of the grasses. It is a well-known and highly prized bee- 
 plant. It is often sown with some of the liner grasses for lawns. 
 
 Trifolium stoloiiiferum (Running Buffalo Clover). 
 
 This is a native perennial species, growing abont a fool high; long- runners an; sent 
 out from the base, which are procumbent at first, becoming erect. The leaves are all 
 at the base, except one pair at the uppei part of the stem. The root-leaves are long- 
 stalked, and have three thinnish obovate leaflets, which are minutely toothed. The 
 pair of leaves on the stem have the stalk about as long as the Leaflets, pointed ami 
 entire on the margins, the lower ones nearly an inch long, the upper ones about half 
 as long. There are but one or two heads on each .stem at the summit, each on a pedi- 
 cel longer than the Leaves. The heads are about an inch in diameter, rather loosely 
 flowered, each flower being on a short, slender pedicel, or stem, which bends back- 
 ward at maturity. Each flower has a long-toothed calyx about half as long as the 
 corolla, which is white, tinged with purple. 
 
 This species is found in rich open woodlands, and in prairies in Ohio, 
 Illinois, Kentucky, and westward. It is of a very vigorous growth, but 
 somewhat smaller in size than the common red clover. It should re- 
 ceive the attention, of farmers and its value be ascertained by cultiva- 
 tion and experiment. (Plate 91.) 
 
 ONOBRYCHIS. 
 
 Onobrychis sativa (Sainfoin). 
 
 A perennial, having somewhat the appearance of Lucerne, but of smaller size and 
 different habit. It seldom exceeds 1.1 feet in height, with a weak stem, rather long, 
 pinnate leaves, and flowers of a pink color in a loose spike, 2 to 4 inches in length, 
 raised on a long, naked peduncle or stalk. The flowers are succeeded by short, single- 
 seeded pods, which are strongly reticulated or marked by raised lines and depressed 
 pits. 
 
 This leguminous forage plant has recently been introduced into this 
 country under the name of "aspercet." Esparsette is the German 
 name; sainfoin is the name used in France and England. 
 
 Jt is a native of Central and Southern Europe and Western Asia, and 
 in Europe has long been in cultivation. From experiments made by 
 the Duke of Bedford, in England, we learn that it was first introduced 
 to English farmers as a plant for cultivation from Flanders and Prance, 
 where it has been long cultivated. It was found to be less productive 
 than the broad-leaved clovers, but on chalky and gravelly soils there 
 was abundant proof of the superiority of sainfoin. It produces but 
 little herbage the first year, but improves in quantity for several years. 
 Mr. Martin J. Sutton, in a recent work on "Permanent and Tempo- 
 rary Pastures," says that it has been cultivated in England for over 
 two hundred years. He says that it is essentially a food for sheep, and 
 in pasturing the sheep do it no injury. It is also useful for horses, but 
 produces nothing like the quantity of green fodder that can be obtained 
 
84 
 
 from the Lucerne patch. When sown alone Mr. Sutton says that sain- 
 foin is liable to decrease and become overrun with weeds. He recom- 
 mends its use as a predominant constituent in a mixture of grasses and 
 clovers. He says that combined with strong growing grasses there is 
 less risk, and the grasses keep down the weeds which otherwise are apt 
 to overrun the sainfoin. In a green state it is quite free from the 
 danger of blowing cattle (hoven), and when made into hay is an ad- 
 mirable and nutritious food. But it requires great care in drying when 
 made into hay. 
 
 Mr. Sinclair states that the produce of sainfoin on a clayey loam with 
 a sandy subsoil is greater than on a sandy or gravelly soil resting upon 
 clay. 
 
 A French writer says that sainfoin can not accommodate itself to 
 damp soil, which, although dry, rests upon a wet subsoil. It delights in 
 dry soil, somewhat gravelly, and, above all, calcareous. It flourishes 
 upon the declivities of hills where water can not remain, and in light soil 
 where its powerful roots can readily penetrate. But although surviving 
 in the poorest calcareous soil, like clover and lucerne, its productive- 
 ness is always relative to the permVability and fertility of the land. It 
 prefers open, sunny places, with a southern or eastern exposure. 
 
 Sainfoin has received several trials in this country, but without much 
 success, probably from the experiments having been made upon un- 
 suitable soil. We can not expect that it will be preferred in places 
 where clover succeeds, but in light soils and in regions with a light 
 rainfall it should receive a thorough trial. A recent bulletin of the 
 Iowa Agricultural College gives the result of some /experiments with 
 this plant which are very satisfactory. Observations there made indi- 
 cate that it stands early freezing quite as well as Kentucky blue grass. 
 It produces at the rate of 3 tons of dry hay per acre. It deserves trial 
 in Kansas, Nebraska, and Colorado, (Plate 95.) 
 
 MEDICAGO. 
 
 Medicago sativa (Alfalfa). 
 
 This plant is called Lucerne, medick, Spanish trefoil, French clover, 
 Brazilian clover, and Chilian clover. It is not a true clover, though be- 
 longing to the same natural family as the clovers. Alfalfa, the name by 
 which it is commonly known in this country, is the Spanish name, which 
 came into use here from the fact that the plant was introduced into culti- 
 vation in California from South America under the name of alfalfa, or 
 Brazilian clover. The plant had previously been introduced into the 
 Eastern and Southern States, but attracted little attention until its 
 remarkable success in California. In Europe it is generally known as 
 Lucerne, probably from the canton of Lucerne, in Switzerland, where 
 it was largely cultivated at an early day. It has been known in cultiva- 
 tion from very ancient times, and was introduced from Western Asia into 
 Greece about 500 B. C. It is now largely grown in southern France, 
 
85 
 
 and to a considerable extent in other parts of Europe. It has been in- 
 troduced into several of tlie countries of South America, and on the 
 pampas of Buenos Ayres it has escaped from cultivation and grows ex- 
 tensively in a wild state. Though known tor a long time in the United 
 •States, alfalfa is not yet cultivated to the extent that it should be. 
 
 In the Southern States east of the Mississippi it is especially desire- 
 able that its merits should be better known. The climate of that sec- 
 tion is nearly as favorable to its growth as that of southern California, 
 but much of its soil less suitable, hence reports from different localities 
 vary somewhat as to its value. 
 
 Climate. — Alfalfa is less hardy than red clover, and is adapted to a 
 milder climate ; still, it has stood the winter safely as far north as Ver- 
 mont, New York, and Michigan, though farther west, where less pro- 
 tected by snow, it winter kills more or less even as far south as Texas. 
 The young plants are very susceptible to frosts, and the mature plants, 
 if not killed by the cold winters of the Northern States, are so weakened 
 that they endure there for a much shorter period than in milder cli- 
 mates. A cold of 25 degrees is said to kill the tops, but in the Southern 
 States the plant quickly recovers from the effect of frost and grows most 
 of the winter. In the Northern States, even where it endured the win- 
 ter, the yield is so much less than at the South that it has little or no 
 advantage over the common red clover. Farther south, however, even 
 where both may be grown, alfalfa is often preferred, not only for its 
 larger yield, but also for its perennial character. Alfalfa is especially 
 adapted to dry climates, and withstands drought much better than or- 
 dinary clovers. 
 
 Soil. — Although alfalfa improves the fertility of the soil, it must have 
 a rich soil to start with, and it therefore is of little value as a renovater 
 of worn-out lands. It prefers sandy soils, if fertile. The failure on 
 sandy soils in the East and the South has been mainly due to the lack 
 of fertility to give the young plants a good start and enable them to 
 become deeply rooted before the advent of drought. On this account it 
 usually thrives best on rich bottom-lauds. Lands that are tenacious 
 and hold water are not adapted to its culture unless well drained. Most 
 of the lands in the West upon which it is grown successfully have a 
 permeable subsoil. When the soil permits, its roots penetrate to a great 
 depth. Cases have frequently been observed of their reaching a depth 
 of 12 or 15 feet, and depths of more than 20 feet have been reported. 
 Hence, after the plant is established, the character of the subsoil is of 
 more importance than that of the surface. 
 
 Culture. — Sow at any time that the ground is in suitable condition, 
 and when there will be time for the plants to become well established 
 before they are subjected either to drought or extreme cold. In the 
 Northern States the month of May will be about the right time. Far- 
 ther south, in the latitude of northern Mississippi, September is prob- 
 ably the best month, and in the extreme South, or in the warm valleys 
 
86 
 
 of California, any time will answer from fall until spring. The soil 
 should be thoroughly prepared, and the seed sown at the rate of 15 
 to 20 pounds to the acre. If sown broadcast, about the latter quan- 
 tity will be required; if in drills, the former amount will be sufficient. 
 If the raising of seed is the main object, 12 or 14 pounds to the acre 
 will give the best results, as the plants will be more vigorous and yield 
 more seed, though they will be coarser and less desirable for feed. 
 
 Drill-culture gives the best results, especially if the soil be dry or 
 weedy. The drills may be 12 to 18 inches apart according to the tool 
 to be employed in cultivation. The seed, if sown broadcast, may be sown 
 alone or with grain, but it generally gives the best results when sown 
 alone. It is often sown with oats with good results, but in a wet season 
 it is liable to be smothered out unless the grain is sown quite thin. 
 After the first year the harrow may be employed to advantage, and 
 even a narrow plow, of such form as will not cut the roots too severely, 
 is sometimes used with good effect, especially where the planting is in 
 rows. In all cases where weeds are inclined to appear it is desirable to 
 give some kind of cultivation every year. This is not so important where 
 the plant is irrigated as elsewhere. In much of the country reaching 
 from Texas to thePacific, irrigation is only essential the first year, or un- 
 til the roots have penetrated deeply into the soil, though the crop is 
 greatly increased by an abundant supply of moisture at all times. In 
 parts of California and adjoining States alfalfa is grown only by irriga- 
 tion, and this must sometimes be resorted to, even when not essen- 
 tial for the growth of the crop, in order to kill the gophers, which are 
 liable to destroy the plants by eating off the roots a few inches below 
 the surface. Immediate irrigation will also prevent many of the plants 
 so eaten off from dying. 
 
 Alfalfa should be neither mowed nor pastured until it has made a 
 considerable growth and becomes well established. 
 
 Harvesting, Feeding, etc. — Alfalfa is perhaps best known in most lo- 
 calities as a soiling plant. For this purpose it has scarcely a superior. 
 It may be cut repeatedly during the season, furnishing a large amount 
 of nutritious forage, which is relished by all kinds of stock. It is said 
 to be less liable than clover to cause slobbers in horses. There is some 
 danger, however, especially to cattle, in feeding it while wet or very suc- 
 culent, of its causing bloat or hoven. On this account it is a good plan 
 to feed it in the green state in connection with straw or hay, or to let it 
 lie several hours to become partially wilted before being fed. 
 
 It is when used as pasture that the greatest danger occurs in the 
 use of alfalfa. Many have used it for years, both for soiling and as 
 pasture, without any injurious results, but numerous instances have 
 been reported where cattle have bloated and died from eating too freely 
 of it when succulent or wet. In some instances cattle have been kept 
 upon it from the time it started in spring until June or July, with no 
 evil results, and then, when the growth has become very rank or been 
 
87 
 
 wet with dew or rain, they have been taken with bloat. The danger is 
 greater, as Is well known, when cattle arc suddenly turned into a rank 
 growth and allowed to eat all they will. It cattle are hungry or have 
 not been accustomed to green food they should not be allowed in such 
 a pasture more than half or three-quarters of an hour, in the dry le- 
 gions of the West there is less danger in the use of alfalfa for pasture 
 than elsewhere, and it is largely used there tor that purpose, especially 
 in the fall after a crop or two of hay has been cut. There is consid- 
 erable danger, however, of the plant becoming killed out by close or 
 continued pasturing, as it does not stand grazing as well as the ordi- 
 nary grasses and clovers. For hay, the cutting should be done as soon 
 as the blossoms appear, otherwise it becomes hard and woody. Con- 
 siderable care is required to cure it properly and prevent the loss of the 
 leaves in drying. The yield is so large and the plant so succulent at 
 the time that it must be cut, that unless there is good weather it is dif- 
 ficult to cure ; on this account it is used less for hay, except in dry cli- 
 mates, than it otherwise would be. The increase in the cultivation of 
 alfalfa has created a good demand forthe seed, which has thus become 
 one of the most important items of profit in its cultivation. For clean- 
 ing the seeds, F. C. Clark, of Alila, Tulare County, Cal., says: 
 
 In this part of the State the ordinary grain-thrasher is need. Some extra screens 
 are used and a few changes made in the arrangement of the cylinder and concave 
 teeth. It is the opinion of some of the experienced alfalfa thrashers that a machine 
 combining the hulling process and some of the machinery of the ordinary thrasher 
 would do better work. 
 
 The seed is usually taken from the second crop, and the yield is greater than that 
 from red clover, frequently amounting to 10 or more bushels per acre. 
 
 The following reports are given from persons who have grown al- 
 falfa in various parts of the country : 
 J. R. Page, professor of agriculture, etc., University of Virginia: 
 
 I have cultivated alfalfa for forty years, both in the tide-water and Piedmont 
 regions of Virginia, and I regard it as the most valuable forage plant the farmer can 
 cultivate for soiling. It is ready to be mowed by the 1st of May and may be cut 
 three or four times during the season.*" Grazing kills it out. It should be top-dressed 
 with manure every fall and plastered in the spring and after every mowing. 
 
 Thomas S. Stadden, Clarke County, Y<\. : 
 
 Alfalfa is grown here to a limited extent. It does well in favorable localities, but 
 is hard to get set. It lasts four to six years. 
 
 H. C. Parrot, Kinston, N. C. : 
 
 Alfalfa is adapted to rich, open soils in all the Southern States. It is excellent 
 feed either green or cured. It should be sown in drills 18 inches apart and cultivated 
 the lirst year. After it is well rooted it will stand drought well and crowd every- 
 thing else out. It will last from eight to sixteen years, according to soil and location. 
 
 J. G. Knapp, United States statistical agent, Limona, southern 
 Florida : 
 
 Many persons in Florida; have exxierimcnted with this plant, so valuable in other 
 regions, but nearly all have failed. Sometimes a plant which has come up in the 
 
88 
 
 fall ami survived the winter has bloomed, but no roots have lived through the wet, 
 warm months of summer. I remember that in New Mexico, whenever it was desir- 
 able to destroy the alfalfa, in order to plow the ground, the surface was covered with 
 water daily for two weeks daring the heat of summer. The United States consul 
 at Lambayeque, Peru, states (United States Agricultural Report, 1877, p. 544) that 
 it will not bear water, an abundant irrigation or inundation causing speedy death to 
 the plant. The result in this country has been the same. Alfalfa has invariably 
 perished during the rainy months. All the clovers are affected the same way. 
 
 Mr. Knapp incloses a letter from Dr. B. J. Taliaferro, of Maitland, 
 Orange County, the only person in bis knowledge who has been suc- 
 cessful in growing alfalfa in that region. 
 
 Dr. Taliaferro says : 
 
 There is no doubt but that alfalfa can be successfully grown in south Florida. My 
 old patch is now twelve months old, and has been cut five times. I am so pleased 
 with it that I have just put in 5 acres more. The great difficulty is getting a 
 good stand. If the ground is not just right the seed will fail. I have failed several 
 times by sowing when the sun was too hot or not hot enough, or when the land was 
 not sufficiently moist. From my short experience I think September is the best month 
 in which to plant. If we plant early in the spring or summer it is almost impossible 
 to keep the crab grass from taking it. I sow in drills 1(5 or 18 inches apart, and wait 
 for a warm, moist day for sowing. The plant is very delicate at first, and must be kept 
 clean from grass and weeds. I shall try a small piece broadcast this fall, but doubt 
 whether it will prove a success, as crab grass is its greatest enemy in my portion of 
 Florida. The piece I have growing is on high, dry, pine land, such as would be suit- 
 able for orange-growing. Alfalfa, having a very long tap-root, would not do on 
 low land. It is very necessary to prepare the land thoroughly. My plan is as fol- 
 lows: After getting the land clean of all stumps, rubbish, etc., I plow it deeply with 
 a two-horse turning-plow, then harrow and hand-rake. Early in spring I put on a 
 light dressing of cotton-seed meal, and sow down in cow peas broadcast, and when 
 the vines are in full bearing I turn them under with a three-horse plow, and as soon 
 thereafter as possible harrow deeply, and broadcast again with some good fertilizer 
 (I prefer cotton-seed meal, bone meal, and potash), harrowing it in well with a spring- 
 tooth harrow. It would be well to repeat the harrowing as often as possible before 
 sowing. About the 1st or middle of September hand-rake perfectly smooth, and put 
 in the seed with a seed-drill, about G pounds per acre. Keep clean of weeds and 
 crab grass, and cut when in bloom. A top-dressing of land plaster after the first 
 cutting will prove very beneficial. I have experimented with a number of forage 
 plants, but failed, with all except millo maize until I tried alfalfa. 
 
 J. S. Newman, Director Experiment Station, Auburn, Ala. : 
 
 I have had it fourteen years in profitable growth from oue seeding, and have seen 
 it in Gordon County, Ga., twenty-five years old, and still in vigorous and profit- 
 able growth. If used for hay it must be cut before it blossoms, or the stems become 
 too woody. Like other leguminous plants it requires especial care in curing, to pre- 
 vent the loss of its leaves. It may be cut from three to five times in one season, ac- 
 cording to the frequency of rains. It is a mistake to suppose that because of its long 
 tap-root it is not seriously affected by drought. It thrives well upon all classes of 
 lands, if fertile and well drained. 
 
 Clarke Lewis, Cliftonville, Mass. : 
 
 It grows readily in this State on poor, sandy soil, but best on sand loam. It will 
 bear cutting year after year without new seeding, if not too heavily grazed. As a 
 permanent soiling plant it has no superior. It must be cut early, when first coming 
 into blossom; if cut later it becomes woody and makes poor hay. Its introduction 
 has been confined, to a few localities. 
 
89 
 Prof. James Troop, La Fayette, I ml. : 
 
 It is naturalized here, but little cultivated. It is perfectly hardy on our black, 
 sandy loam, but yields no more than Timothy or clover. It will not last here in or 
 than three or four years. 
 
 Leonard A. Heil, of the Texas Live Stoek Journal, San Antonio, 
 Tex.: 
 
 Alfalfa has been successfully raised in this locality only by irrigation, which is practi- 
 cable to but a limited extent. There are those who claim that it can l>c successfully 
 grown with only the natural rains, but after careful investigation I seriously doubt 
 its practicability. 
 
 James Perry, Whitesborongh, northeastern Texas : 
 
 Alfalfa is a fair success in our black, waxy soil, and can be cut twice a year, yield- 
 ing l'to 3 tons at a cutting. Broadcast sowing is the usual method, and seems 
 to be sufficient on clean laud. It stands the drought well and the freeze of ordinary 
 wiuters. Three years ago, however, I had 7 acres badly killed by "spewing up" in 
 winter, but the scattering plants that remained are doing well. 
 
 C. A. Graves, Fiskville, central Texas : 
 
 It is cultivated here only to a small extent. It dies out in spots, just as •cotton, 
 sweet potatoes, and some other vegetables do, and apparently for the same unknown 
 reason. In some localities, the spots where it dies out cover one-fourth of the ground. 
 The uncertainty of moisture on and near the surface for any length of time, owing 
 to hot suns and drying winds, makes the catch from all seeds that germinate near 
 the surface uncertain. 
 
 Dr. E. P. Stiles, Austin, Tex., says: 
 
 Alfalfa is not permanent here. For two or three years it will produce good, crops, 
 and theu it begins to die out in circular patches. The spots increase in size until in 
 a year or two they become confluent. Cotton plants sometimes die in the same way, 
 and apple-trees put into such soil are subject to a sudden blight. I have uQver known 
 alfalfa to be killed by eitber cold or drought, but its growth is very slight in very 
 dry soil. In Green County it is grown quite successfully under irrigation, but it dies 
 in some localities there the same as here. 
 
 J. E. Willett, Farmington, northwestern New Mexico: 
 
 Alfalfa grows finely here, and yields so enormously that we want nothing better. 
 We cut it four times during the season, obtaining a ton and a half of hay at each cut- 
 ting. We raise nothing here except by irrigation. As soon as the crop is taken oil', 
 we turn on the water in many places at once and flood the land for several days, for 
 Alfalfa requires an abundance of water, notwithstanding the fact that land which 
 is low and wet will not answer. It flourishes on rock uplands that are very poor, but 
 must have plenty of water at the right time. The soil is fdled with large, long roots, 
 reaching as deep as 20 feet. 
 
 George H. Jones, Naranjos, northwestern New Mexico : 
 
 It grows well without irrigation after the second or third year on any ordinary 
 soil, and yields very satisfactory results where properly put in. I know one piece 
 which has stood eight years and still yields well. 
 
 A. L. Siler, Eanch, Utah : 
 
 I know Lucerne patches that have stood for twenty-four years, and they are as 
 productive as when first planted. It does well with irrigation on any porous soil, 
 yielding 4 to 6 tons per acre. Without irrigation it would produce nothing. 
 
90 
 William Leam an, Cannonsvillo, Utah: 
 
 Lucerne dees very well in this mountain country, where there is very little rain, 
 and produces from 2 to 2£ tons per acre, and makes from three to four crops per year, 
 but I am well satisfied that it will not stand much wet weather, us excessive water- 
 ing kills it here, and water running over it in the winter and forming ice over it 
 kills it. 
 
 Prof. A. E. Blount, Fort Collins, Colo. : 
 
 Our soil is mostly sandy loam and clay loam, gray, and to all appearances very 
 poor. It is dry, hard, and destitute of black soil, except in low, marshy places and 
 on the streams. On this soil, which has never been leached or deprived of its fertil- 
 ity by moisture, we sow alfalfa at the rate of 20 pounds to the acre. If kept well 
 irrigated, two crops can be taken the same season that the seed is sown, yielding as 
 high as 3 or 4 tons per acre. The second season, if a good stand was secured, three 
 cuttings are made, yielding as high in some localities as 7 tons. Our largest yields 
 come from those farms where water is applied immediately after each cutting. 
 Among the best farmers 4 tons to the acre is a very small average. I have known 9 
 tons to be taken from an acre where the most careful attention was given. When 
 once rooted it is next to impossible to eradicate or kill the plant. One man plowed 
 up a piece and sowed it to oats, and after having thrashed out 42 bushels of oats per 
 acre he cut 3 tons of alfalfa hay per acre from the same land. Some have raised 
 wheat, corn, and potatoes with excellent success, after turning under a crop of alfalfa, 
 without in any way interfering with the stand of the latter the next year. 
 
 F. W. Sweetser, Winnemucca, Kev.: 
 
 Alfalfa is cultivated quite extensively in several parts of the State. It does best 
 in a dark loam. It is hardy and yields, with irrigation, about 5 tons per acre. One 
 season without irrigation will kill it. 
 
 O. P. Wright, Teinescal, San Bernardino County, Cal.: 
 
 Alfalfa is cut from one to six times per year. The yield when good is as follows : 
 First cutting, 2 tons of not very good hay ; second cutting, 3 tons of good hay ; third 
 cutting, 2-\ tons of good hay; fourth cutting, 2^ tons of good hay ; fifth cutting, 1 ton 
 of good hay. If the land is v.ry dry there may be but one cutting, the roots living, 
 but the tops apparently dead. If it is very dry the roots die also. 
 
 Pasturing in the latter part of summer does not injure it much, but in winter and 
 spring, when annual plants are growing, it soon kills it. A good stand can not be 
 obtained without mowing, for worthless weeds would otherwise choke it out. The 
 plants increase in strength for three years. 
 
 E. G. Jiulsou, Lugonia, San Bernardino County, Cal.: 
 
 Alfalfa is fairly hardy, but it can not stand extreme cold. On dry lands it cannot 
 be grown without irrigation. It can be subdued by repeated plowings or keeping 
 away water. 
 
 William Schulz, Anaheim, Los Angeles County, Cal.: 
 
 Alfalfa fails without irrigation on account of the gophers, which eat off the roots a 
 few inches below the surface. It is one of the best forage plants we have. 
 
 William C. Cusick, Union, Oregon : 
 
 Alfalfa is not extensively grown in this locality. It is hardy only at the lowest al- 
 titudes, or where snow falls deeply. It prefers dry, sandy soils that can be irrigated, 
 on such lauds yielding 3 to 4 tons per acre. Without irrigation it is hardly worth 
 cutting. This applies to a portion of the State east of the Cascade Mountains. 
 
91 
 
 A few extracts from various agricultural papers and other publications 
 are here inserted. 
 
 Southern Live Stock Journal : 
 
 The value of alfalfa in California is inestimable. The plant is eminently adapted 
 to the soil and climate of that State. It is wonderfully productive. It is grown with 
 success in Colorado and some of the Territories, and now and then an isolated reporl 
 comes up from the great State of Texas that it is fulfilling the highest hopes of those 
 who have given it, their attention. Here and there from the Carol inas, Georgia, 
 Florida, Mississippi, Alabama, and Louisiana come favorable reports, bnt these in- 
 stances are few and far between. The fact is, alfalfa has never yet bad a fair tri;il 
 in Southern agriculture. Our people, as a people, have never appreciated its value 
 as a worthy addition to southern grasses and 7 forage plants. 
 
 The failures that have been made with this plant in the South are doubtless due to 
 the fact that (1) the weeds are allowed to choke it out the first year, or the stock to 
 graze it too closely and bite off the crowns of the plants before the roots were firmly 
 established; (2) the land was not rich enough — it requires very rich land ; (3) that 
 the land was not suitable to its growth, or that it held too much water and ought to 
 have been underdrained. 
 
 Tulare County (California) Kegister: 
 
 Alfalfa is the foundation of prosperity in Tulare County. It begins to yield the 
 very year it is sown, and increases its yield many years afterward. It will grow 
 where nothing else will, and sends its roots deep down into the moist strata which 
 underlie the top soil all over the country. Alfalfa not only furnishes food lor 1, 
 cattle, and sheep, but hogs and poultry thrive upon it as upon nothing else until fat- 
 tening time comes, when a little Egyptian or Indian corn must be fed to make the 
 llesh solid. In Tulare, alfalfa yields from (5 to 10 tons of hay per acre each slim- 
 mer, besides supplying good pasturage the rest of the season ; when it goes to Beed 
 it often yields a return of $40 to ,$G0 per acre in seed alone, besides yielding nearly as 
 valuable a hay crop as when not permitted to go to seed. Upon alfalfa and stock, 
 Tulare is building a great and assured prosperity. 
 
 George Tyng, in Florida Dispatch : 
 
 Sow in any month when the ground is moist and at least four to six weeks before 
 heavy frost or before the season of heat and drought. Less seed will bo required if 
 it is soaked before sowing. Put the seed into any convenient vessel and cover with 
 water, not boiling but too hot to be comfortable to the hand, and keep in a warm 
 place for eighteen to twenty-four hours, until the seeds swell enough to partially 
 rupture their dark hulls. When the seeds are ready for sowing drain oil* all the 
 water through a sieve or bag and dry the seeds with cotton-seed meal, land plaster, 
 or other material, increasing the bulk to a bushel and a half or two bushels for every 
 20 pounds. If the ground be dry, cultivate just before sowing and sow in the after- 
 noon. Cover as soon as possible, and guard against covering too deeply. The best 
 convenient thing for this purpose is a light drag made of the bushy branches of 
 trees. 
 
 Prof. E. W. Hilgard, in the Report of the Department of Agriculture 
 for 1878, page 41)0, says : 
 
 Undoubtedly the most valuable result of the search after forage crops adapted to 
 the California climate is the introduction of the culture of alfalfa, this being the 
 name commonly applied to the variety of Lucerne that was introduced into Cali- 
 fornia from Chili early iu her history, differing from the European plants merely in 
 that it has a tendency to taller growth and deeper roots. The latter habit, doubt- 
 less acquired in the dry climate of Chili, is of course especially valuable in Cali- 
 fornia, as it enables the plant to stand a drought so protracted as to kill out even 
 
92 
 
 more resistant plants than red clover. As .1 substitute for the latter it is difficult to 
 overestimate the importance of alfalfa i«> California agriculture, which will be more 
 ami more recognized aa a regular system of rotation becomes a part of the general 
 practice. At tirst alfalfa was used almost exclusively for pasture and green-soiling 
 purposes, but daring the last three or four years alfalfa hay has become a regular 
 article in the general market, occasional objections to its use being the result of 
 want of practice in curing. On the irrigated lands of Kern, Fresno, and Tulare 
 Counties three and even four cuts of forage, aggregating to something like 12 to 14 
 tons per .acre, have frequently been made. As the most available green forage during 
 the slimmer, alfalfa has become an invaluable adjunct to all dairy and stock farming 
 wherever the soil can, during the dry season, supply any moisture within 'I or 3 feet 
 of the surface. 
 
 Peter Henderson, in an article on alfalfa in the Report of the De- 
 partment of Agriculture for 1884, page 567, says: 
 
 Mr. William Crozier, of Northport, Long Island, one of the best-known farmers and 
 stock-breeders in the vicinity of New York, says he has long considered alfalfa one 
 of the best forage crops. He used it always to feed his milch cows and breeding 
 ewes, particularly in preparing them for exhibition at fairs, where he is known to be 
 a most successful competitor : and he always takes along sufficient alfalfa hay to feed 
 them on while there. Mr. Crozier's system of culture is broadcast, and he uses some 
 15 or 16 pounds of seed to the acre, but his laud is usually clear and in a high state 
 of cultivation, which enables him to adopt the broadcast plan ; but on an average 
 laud it will be found that the plan of sowing in drills would be the best. Mr. Cro- 
 zier's crop the second year averages IS tons, green, to the acre, and about 6 tons 
 when dried as bay. For this section, the latitude of New York, lie finds that the 
 best date for sowing is the first week in May ; a good cutting can theu be had in 
 September. The next season a full crop is obtained when it is cut, if green, three or 
 four times. If to be used for hay it is cut in the condition of ordinary red clover — in 
 blossom; it theu makes, after that, two green crops if cut. Sometimes the last one, 
 instead of being cut, is fed on the ground by sheep and cattle. 
 
 (Plate 96.) 
 
 Medicago denticulata (Bur Clover). 
 
 This is a native of the Mediterranean region, which has become nat- 
 uralized in most warm countries. It was early introduced into Cali- 
 fornia and has become widely distributed in that State, where it is con- 
 sidered of great value. 
 
 It is not of first quality either as pasture or hay, but coming at a time 
 of year when other feed is scarce, and often growing where little else 
 will, it is eaten by all kinds of stock. The pods, or burs, are especially 
 sought after in the dry condition, as they remain good until spoiled by 
 rains. Although this plant does not withstand drought as well as many 
 others, it is enabled to grow on dry soils in climates having pro- 
 longed drought from its making its growth daring the rainy season. 
 Sown early in autumn in the sections to which it is adapted, it grows 
 during the winter and ripens the following spring or early summer. It 
 has been introduced from California into the Southern States, where it 
 is generally highly regarded by those who have tried it, both for graz- 
 ing and as a renovator of the soil. Being an annual, and ripening 
 early, other crops may be grown on the same land during the summer 
 
93 
 
 without interfering with the next growth of the clover. The clover is 
 usually allowed to reseed itself. But little of the seed is sold iu the 
 
 market, and it is usually sown by tanners without being cleared from 
 the burs, or pods. One serious objection to the plant is the liability of 
 the burs to infest the wool of sheep. 
 There is another species, called spotted medick (Medicago maculata), 
 
 which is often confused with this, and is probably the more common 
 east of the Rocky Mountains, but the two are much alike and of about 
 the same agricultural value. 
 
 Only Medicago denticulata is mentioned by Professor Watson in his 
 Botany of California as being found in that State. 
 
 J. W. Alesworth, Slack Canyon, Monterey County, Cal. : 
 
 On the coast, where the climate is moist, bar clover makes a rank growth and is 
 considered good feed late in the season. My place being 40 miles from tin 
 and 1,410 feet in altitude it only grows here to a limited extent, though it is gradually 
 extending. When I came to this place, in 1870, there was none here. Bur clover is 
 good, rich feed, but is not sought after by stock until the other clovers and altilaria 
 are gone. 
 
 Daniel Griswold, Westminster, Los Angeles County, Cal. : 
 
 It is grown in all the lower valleys of California wherever the land is not very 
 salty, but scarcely any is found in the high valleys. It grows large and falls down 
 and curls around so that it is very difficult to mow, but all stock eat it on the ground, 
 green or dry. The seed is never saved, though it is produced abundantly. 
 
 O. F. Wright, Temescal, San Bernardino County, Cal. : 
 
 It grows here abundantly on high lands, with alfilaria. These are the only plants 
 on such lands that cattle will eat. They are never killed by cold here, but die when 
 dry weather comes. Stock pick on the bur clover while growing (from January to 
 June), and after it dies they hunt for the burs which are on the ground, and in their 
 efforts to get them they roll the old dry stems into rolls often as big as windrows of 
 hay. 
 
 S. H. McGinnes, of Belmont, Tex. : 
 
 The California bur clover does well here, making good hay and pasture. It comes 
 up in October and ripens in May. It takes but very few bunches to produce a bushel 
 of seeds (burs) and it only has to be planted once. Horses and hogs do well upon the 
 burs after they ripen and fall off. 
 
 Edwin C. Beed, Meridian, Miss. : 
 
 Bur clover has been grown here to a limited extent, and a few who have grown it 
 twelve or fifteen years find it all that could be desired for winter and spring past- 
 ure. All stock eat it freely when they acquire a taste for it, and sheep and hogs eat 
 the burs left on the ground. The plant reseeds itself, but the ground should be plowed 
 and harrowed in August to secure an early winter pasture. It matures the 1st of 
 June, after which peas may be broadcasted on the same land, when it will require no 
 fall plowing. On rich lands it sometimes seeds in Bermuda beds, affording both win- 
 ter and summer grazing. I have grown vines Gi feetlong, hip high, and as thick as 
 it could stand. I prize it above all other winter pastures. It is admirably adapted to 
 the Eocene formation, where red clover does not succeed, and it is far better if it 
 did, as bur clover is a winter plant. 
 
94 
 
 J. S. Newman, Director Experiment Station, Agricultural and Me- 
 chanical College, Auburn, Ala. : 
 
 First introduced into the cotton States, as Far as I know, by the late Bishop George 
 Pierce, from California, about 1867, and planted at his home in Hancock County. Ga. 
 It lias since become quite popular in some localities. 
 
 (Plate 07.) 
 
 DESMODIUM. 
 
 Desmodiuin is a genus belonging- to the same family as the pea and 
 clover, and like them is rich in nutritious material. There are about 
 forty species native in the United States, many of them hard and 
 woody, but several of them furnishing valuable woods-pasture to wild 
 and domestic animals. These are often called beggar-tick, beggar-lice, 
 beggar- weed, or tick-weed, from the tendency of the seed-pods to cling 
 to the clothing of persons or the hair of animals. The same or similar 
 names, however, are applied to other plants. 
 
 The, species of perhaps the most importance is Desmodium tortuosum, 
 which is confined to Florida or the vicinity of the Gulf coast. Seeds 
 of this species were distributed by the Department of Agriculture in 
 1879, under the name of Desmodium molle, and a number of favorable 
 reports have been received from those who have tried it in the southern 
 portion of the Gulf States. It is valued most as a renovating crop for 
 lands where clover can not be successfully grown, It is also of con- 
 siderable value as pasture, and has sometimes been used for hay. 
 
 J. G. Knapp, Limona, Fla. : 
 
 Few forage plants bear a better reputation here than Desmodium molle (tortuosum), 
 commonly known as beggar-weed. Horses prefer it to any other growing plant. It 
 comes as a volunteer in fields planted with other crops. "When the stalks are ISO 
 or 40 inches high it may be cut for hay. and as many as 2 tons secured from an 
 acre. The stubble will put forth new shoots and mature sufficient seed to restock 
 the field. It will thrive on the poorest sandy soil, and in a few years, if turned under 
 wheu matured, will render them rich and productive. 
 
 J. C. Xeal, Archer, Fla. : 
 
 It is especially valuable to Florida, as it enriches the soil beyond any other crop 
 and is not in the way of the corn crop, germinating after corn is laid by. Cattle and 
 horses fatten on this plant rapidly ; in fact, nothing is better to restore health and 
 vigor to a worn-out beast than a few weeks in a beggar-wred patch. It is of no 
 value for hay or wiuter forage. 
 
 J. A. Stockford, Cary ville, Fla. : 
 
 It is at home in middle Florida, and is being introduced in western Florida by 
 some enterprising farmers who had a chance to test its value in middle. Florida while 
 fanning there. Those who have condemned it have usually done so without apparent 
 reason. 
 
 D. S. Denmark, Quitman, Brooks County, Ga. : 
 
 We have a plant here known as beggar-weed that grows on cultivated lands, and 
 when once seeded always seeds itself. It is a line summer and fall forage plant; also 
 fine for hay and for renovating worn-out lands, but difficult to exterminate. It 
 grows only in south Georgia and in Florida. 
 
95 
 
 W. B. McDaniel, Faceville, (la. : 
 
 Beggar-tick or beggar-lice grows well in the southwestern pari of Georgia, is an 
 excellent plant for forage, both green and cured, and is splendid as a fertilizer, build- 
 ing up land very rapidly. From the 1st of July it will entirely cover the ground the 
 same season. 
 
 R. J. Redding, Atlanta, Ga. : 
 
 Introduced from Florida and cultivated in southern Georgia for hay and as B icno- 
 vator of the soil, especially tho latter. It is not hardy againsl cold, and Is not grown 
 in middle and northern Georgia. 
 
 Whitfield Moore, Woodland, Red River County, Tex.: 
 That which 1 cultivated was from seeds from the J >epartmen1 of Agriculture, and ap- 
 pears somewhat different from the native. It has to be seeded annually. It will not 
 stand much grazing, but is a good fertilizer, and drought seems not to affecl its growth 
 in the least. It is best adapted to light, sandy land, and will grow a heavy crop from 
 4 to feet high ou the poorest sandy land we have, and in the driest seasons. The 
 hay is very sweet and nutritious, and all stock eat it more greedily than anything else 
 I have ever fed. The only objection to it is the trouble of saving and cleaning the 
 seed. 
 
 LESPEDEZA. 
 
 Lespedeza striata (Japan Clover). 
 
 This plant was introduced in some unknown way, over forty years ago, 
 from China into the South Atlantic States. It was little noticed before 
 the war, but during the war it extended north and west and has since 
 spread rapidly over abandoned fields, along roadsides, and in open 
 woods, and now furnishes thousands of acres of excellent grazing in 
 every one of the Gulf States, and is still spreading northward in Ken- 
 tucky and Virginia, and westward in Texas, Indian Territory, and 
 Arkansas. It is an annual and furnishes pasture only during summer 
 and until killed by frost in the fall. The small purplish blossoms are 
 produced singly in the axils between the leaf and stem, and the seeds 
 ripen, a few at a time, from about the 1st of August until the close of the 
 season. It reproduces itself from seed on the same ground year after 
 year, and on this account has been erroneously called a perennial. It 
 will grow on poor soils, either sand or clay, but prefers the latter. It 
 is better adapted to poor soils than Bermuda grass, both from giving a 
 more certain and perhaps larger yield, and from being more useful in 
 restoring their fertility. On poor upland soils it is seldom cut for hay, 
 growing only from 6 inches to 1 foot in height, and being incliued to 
 spread out flat upon the surface. On rich bottom-lauds it grows thicker, 
 taller, and more upright, and is largely cut for hay. It has been sown 
 artificially only to a limited extent as yet, but seed is now offered in the 
 market, and its cultivation is likely to be liberally extended, especially 
 on lands too dry or poor for alfalfa and where the true clovers do not 
 succeed. Japan clover is remarkable for holding its own against other 
 plants. It will run out broom sedge and other inferior plants, and 
 even Bermuda in some localities. It does not withstand drought as 
 well as either Bermuda or Johnson grass, but soon recovers after a 
 
96 
 
 rain. The young plauts are easily killed by drought or frost, and for 
 this reason a good catch is more certain on an unbroken sod than on 
 well-prepared land. Still, there is believed to be less difficulty in ob- 
 taining a catch with this than with some other forage plants. A good 
 method of seeding is to sow in March at the rate of one-half bushel per 
 acre, on small grain sown the previous autumn or winter. 
 
 For hay it should be cut early, before it becomes woody. It is cured 
 in the same manner as clover, and the hay is apparently relished by 
 all kinds of stock. There is some complaint that stock do not at first 
 eat it readily while growing, and that horses and mules are liable to be 
 salivated if allowed to eat it freely while luxuriant. In both these re- 
 spects, however, it probably differs little from the ordinary clovers. 
 Xo cases have been reported of bloat or hoven being caused by it. 
 
 E. L. Allen, Brownsville, Haywood County, Tenu.: 
 
 Lcspedeza striata (Japan clover) grows luxuriantly, is very hardy, and is the best 
 pasture we have in summer. It is especialiy adapted to poor upland, covering the 
 earth, eradicating weeds and sedge grass, preventing land from washing, aud in- 
 creasing its fertility. It grows well in the open timber. Our special need has been 
 a grass to withstand the heats of summer and afford pastures for the early fall. Japan 
 clover has met this requirement. 
 
 £[. H. Lovelace, Como, Henry County, Tenn.: 
 
 Japan clover made its appearance here three or four years ago, and now occupies 
 nearly all lands that have been exhausted and turned out, growing on laud too poor 
 to grow any other plant. In fact, it will grow in a red gully ; hence it is the best 
 thing to prevent washing I ever saw, besides all kinds of stock are fond of it ; and 
 grow fat on it. 
 
 B. D. Baugh, State statistical agent, Carrollton, Miss. : 
 
 Japan clover is the most wide-spread of the natural forage plauts of this State. It 
 grows luxuriantly on any kind of soil except light prairie ash-land. It is easily cured, 
 makes hay of excellent quality, and furnishes more than half of the long forage of 
 this State. It grows well on upland, but best ou bottom-laud and alluvial soil, 
 where it frequently attains a height of 30 inches. If intended for hay it should be 
 mowed when the first bloom appears, and be '• browsed " or stacked after six or eight 
 hours' exposure to the sun. It affords good pasture from the 1st of May until killed 
 by frost, about the middle of November. 
 
 George Echols, Longview. Gregg County, northeastern Texas : 
 
 It appeared here four years ago, and it now has possession of all the open idle land. 
 It seeds very abundantly, and grows so densely that it forms a mat. It flourishes 
 with Bermuda grass, so that the hay mowed is about half and half. 
 
 Dr. D. H. Brodnax, statistical correspondent, Brodnax, Morehouse 
 Parish, La. : 
 
 Lespede:a was first noticed here about 1865. It is supposed to have been introduced 
 in the cavalry hay fed the horses of the Federal cavalry, which occupied this parish 
 for a short time. It has since covered nearly the whole parish. It is not cultivated* 
 but i-; rapidly rooting out nearly every other grass iu the parish. It kills our bitter- 
 weed (dog fennel), Bermuda grass, and everything else. It is a splendid forage crop, 
 and excellent for grazing until frosts destroy it. 
 
Dr. Charles iMolir, Mobile, Alabama : 
 
 Le8j)vdeza striata (Japan clover) is an animal plant, winch, during the last fcwentj 
 years, Las spread all over the Gulf States. It bloouia and ripens its seeds from the 
 early summer months to the close of the season, and -row > spontaneously it- exposed, 
 Uiore or less damp, places of a somewhat close, loain\ Boil. No al tempts at its cult iva- 
 tion have been made. In the stronger soil of the lauds iu tbo iuterior this plaut, 
 protected from the browsing of cattle, -rows from H to 2 leer iu height, and yields 
 large crops of sweet, nutritious hay, the same plol affording a cut in Augusl and an- 
 other in October, yielding, respectively, \h tons and 1 ton of hay to the acre. The 
 plant is perfectly hardy, and is not known to have been killed out by a long drought. 
 It is easily subdued by cultivation, as it does not again make its appearance on laud 
 where it has been plowed in, and is not found among the weeds the farmer has to con- 
 tend with in the cultivation of Lis crop. Jt is a perfect pasture plant, easily estab- 
 lished, and standing browsing and tramping by cattle well. Its propagation through 
 the woods and pastures is effected by cattle, the seeds passing through the animals 
 with their vitality unimpaired. As a fertilizing plant it is greatly inferior to the 
 Mexican clover. 
 
 J. B. Wade, Edgewood, De Kalb Couuty, Ga. : 
 
 It is said by the old residents here that Japan clover was unknown in this part of 
 the country until "after the war." It now grows spontaneously on most of the land 
 of middle Georgia that has a red-clay subsoil, and which has been turned out, i. <., 
 not plowed or cultivated for two or three'years. It grows sufficiently high to make 
 
 hay, hut as it springs up in February, or even earlier should there come a warm spell 
 of weather, it is mostly used for grazing, as it lasts from February to November. 
 
 J. B. Dai-tint, Denver, S. C. : 
 
 It does not stand drought as well as Bermuda; both are our best pasture plants. 
 For cattle we have nothing better than Japan (lover ; but it salivates horses and 
 mules after the 1st of July, especially if verv luxuriant. 
 
 J. W. Walker, of Franklin, X. 0., in a letter to the Blade Farm, says: 
 
 Seventeen years ago Japan clover was found here, occupying an are;; not exceeding 
 10 feet square. It now covers thousands of acres, upon which al! kinds of stock keep 
 fat and sleek, while the yield iu milk and beef products has iu creased a hundred-fold. 
 Our exhausted aud turned-out lands that have hitherto yielded nothing but that 
 worse than useless broom sedge [Andropogon scoparhis), now have in its stead a 
 beautiful carpet of most nutritious verdure. 
 
 This plant grows anywhere and on any kind of land, rich or poor, wet or dry, high 
 or low. It has been found in luxuriant growth on the summit of the Blue Ridge, at 
 a height of 4,000 feet. It will catch and grow luxuriantly where none of the clovers 
 proper will grow at all. Unlike them it never runs out. 
 
 J. B. McGekee gives the following" experiences in a letter to the 
 Southern Live Stock Journal, September, 1886 : 
 
 This has proved tho worst season for its propagation that 1 have met with. I have 
 this week examined over 200 acres of my last spring's sowiug, where I sowed one- 
 half bushel per acre, and I find the most spotted stand I ever saw ; and of tin- whole 
 200 acres I will get a crop of hay on not to exceed 50 acres*. My first sowing of about 
 80 acres was commenced about March 22, and finished about the 1st of April. This 
 was coming ttp thickly when the freeze of the 0th of April came, and I am convinced 
 that all seeds then sprouting were frozen out and killed. The sowings during April 
 did better, hut anything like a reasonable stand is found only on moist places. The 
 reason for this is the fact that not a drop of rain fell from April 26 to June 6. My 
 worst catch was on comparatively clean land, an oat field, in which the oats had 
 3594 GR 7 
 
98 
 
 been mostly killed by the winter. My best catch was on a grass sod. I found that 
 a freeze or a drought catching the plants before the roots have penetrated the soil 
 are equally disastrous. On some uu-adows of previous sowings I am now cutting a 
 heavy crop of almost pure Lespedeza. The reverses of this year will not loosen the 
 hold of the giass on my estimation in the least. 
 
 (Plate 1)8.) 
 
 MISCELLANEOUS PLANTS. 
 
 OPUNTIA. 
 Opuntia Engelmanni (Nopal; Prickly Pear). 
 
 One of the principal characteristics of the vegetation of arid districts 
 is the prevalence of different species of Cactacew or cactus-like plants. 
 These are exceedingly variable in form and size, and are divided into 
 several genera. Of these the Opuntia* are extremely common. There 
 are two kinds of these — one with broad, flat joints, and one with cylin- 
 drical or club -shaped joints. 
 
 Of the flat, broad-jointed kind there are many species. The Opuntia 
 vulgaris is common in sandy ground in the Eastern Atlantic States. In 
 western Texas and other parts of the arid regions reaching to Califor- 
 nia there is a much larger kind, of the same general appearance, ^vhich 
 is called Opuntia Engelmanni, This is a stout, coarse-looking plant, 
 growing from 4 to G feet high, and much branched. The joints arc, 
 in large specimens, a foot long and or 10 inches broad, with groups 
 of stout spines from J to 1£ inches long. They are apparently leaf- 
 less, but in young specimens minute, fleshy leaves may be detected. 
 Springing from the side of these joints at the proper season are hand- 
 some flowers 2 or 3inches in diameter, which are succeeded by a round- 
 ish fruit, nearly 2 inches long, filled with a purplish pulp, generally of 
 an insipid taste, while imbedded in the pulp are numbers of small, hard 
 seeds. The common name of this Opuntia among the Mexicans is u nopal," 
 and some of the species have fruit which is edible and highly esteemed. 
 The use of the above species of prickly pear, or cactus, for forage in the 
 dry regions of Texas and westward is a matter of considerable impor- 
 tance. An extended account of its use is given in Bulletin 3, of this 
 Division. The usual method of preparing the plant for feeding is to 
 singe the prickles over a brisk blaze. To some extent, especially by 
 sheep, the plant is eaten in the natural state, but serious consequences 
 frequently result in such cases. Its chief use is 3S a substitute for fod- 
 der in times of scarcity, but when properly prepared and fed with hay 
 and grain it forms a valuable article of food for cattle. 
 
 J. A. Avent, Sr., Bexar County, southern Texas: 
 
 I have been feeding- prickly pear for thirty years. It is an excellent feed for cattle 
 if fed with fodder or hay of any kind ; when not too full of sap it may be fed alone. 
 Ii cut in January it can be fed until March 20, but if left standing it is not good feed 
 after the 20th of February. There is nothing that cattle like better than prickly 
 pear when accustomed to it. Wc feed it only in dry years when grass is scarce. We 
 begin feeding about the 1st of November and continue until the 20th of February, 
 
The old stumps with a little coru will fatten cattle very fasl . We burn off t lie thorns 
 in feeding it, but most stock-raisers do not. The apples ripen aboul (he 1st of July 
 and are eaten by almost everything. Hogs gel fat enough upon lliem to Lender into 
 lard when the crop is good, and it seldom fails. 
 
 A. J. SSpeocer, OValde, Tex.: 
 
 It is eaten by cattle, sheep, -oats, and hogs. They eat it mainly as found ou t lit* 
 range, though sometimes the thorns are scorched off. It is considered one of the best 
 native forage plants, especially to carry these stock through the loug droughts that 
 
 occur occasionally in western Texas. It is a partial substitute for water I'd all stock 
 that eat it. The only injury I have known to result from eating it has been to sheep, 
 
 and then only when eaten while frozen. 
 
 S. S. Jamison, Burnet, Tex. : 
 
 It is used extensively in the southwestern part of the State, especially by Mexicans, 
 for wintering work-oxen, cows, and other cattle upon. The thorns are Bcorched off 
 he fore feeding, and no harm results from its use unless it be too great a laxness at 
 times. Only one kh?d is used as far as I know, but it varies in height in different 
 
 localities. In this country it grows from 6 inches to 2 feet. Farther south it -rows 
 taller. 
 
 Prof. George W. Curtis, College Station, Tex.: 
 
 It is used quite extensively for cattle and sheep. The prickles are singed off, or the 
 # w hole plant is boiled and fed, mixed with bran. Only the Opuntia vulgaris, and per- 
 haps a variety .of the same, are used, so far as 1 know. I have no positive knowledge 
 
 of any injury to stock from feeding upon it. but from its purgative nature I should 
 be afraid that it might cause abortion in pregnant cows. 
 
 Has your attention been called to the use of the pi ickly-peai cactus as a lubricant .' 
 Certain of the Western railroads have used it with excellent results. It is gathered 
 in Texas, shipped to St. Louis, ground up coarsely, and pine tar added to keep the 
 albuminoids from decomposition (I do not know whether anything else is added or 
 not), after which it is barreled and returned. The total cost is 2\ cents per pound, 
 and it is said to do tho work of 6 or 8 cents' worth of grease and rags formerly used. 
 It is especially useful in preventing and cooling hot boxes. If this comes into gen- 
 eral use it will open a new Held of production. 
 
 Leonard A. Heil, San Antonio, Tex.: 
 
 The cactus, or prickly pear, grows abundantly in nearly every section of south- 
 west Texas, often reaching a height v£ 10 or 12 feet. Ever since the settlement of 
 the country by the English, and probably years before, it has been used to supplement 
 grass in times of drought, but now it is being used with other feeds at all times, and 
 especially in the winter. Sheep do well upon it without water, there being sufficient 
 moisture in the leaves. The herder goes along with a short sword and clips the 
 points of the great leaves, so that the sheep can insert its nose, when it readily eats 
 the in entire. 
 
 Dr. A. E. Carotbers, an extensive ranchman of Cotulla, La Salle 
 County, Tex., began feeding prickly pear and cotton-seed meal to four 
 hundred Lead of steers for the purpose of fattening for the market, and 
 at the last account was highly pleased with the result and confident of 
 financial success. He singes off the thorns with a flame, and cuts up 
 the pear and feeds it mixed, in troughs, with the cottonseed meal in 
 the proportion of about 5 pounds of meal to 70 pounds of pear. The 
 steers eat this food with great relish and take the food rapidly. They 
 have about a ^oOO-acre ikld to run in, If tins method of feeding proves 
 
100 
 
 ii success, it may work a revolution in this section, as thousands of tons 
 of cotton seed are exported annually to England, and the supply of the 
 pear is simply inexhaustible. The feeding of the pear need in no way 
 diminish the supply, as whenever a piece of leaf is kept on the ground 
 it takes root and makes another plant, growing rapidly. Corn is always 
 high, and can never be transported here for stock-feed and the stock 
 be shipped back again over the same road with a certainty of success. 
 The utilizing of prickly pear and cottonseed meal will make beef-rais- 
 ing, as well as breeding, profitable in this portion of the country, and 
 make the ranchmen entirely independent of all other sections. 
 
 Dr. Carothers, above mentioned, writes, March, 1887 : 
 
 In pursuance of a correspondence had with your Department last summer, begun 
 by Mr. A. J. Dull, of Harrisburg, Pa., who has cattle interests in this State, I have 
 fed four hundred beeves, and am now feeding eight hundred more, on this food. From 
 the analysis furnished by Mr. Richardson of your Department, I found that the cac- 
 tus was deficient in albuminoids, and from the well-known richness of the cotton- 
 seed oil cakes in these elements, I selected it to supply the deficiency, which it did 
 very well. At first I burned the thorns off the cactus, then cut it up by a machiue 
 which I devised, and spread it in large troughs, scattering the cotton-seed meal over 
 it, when the cattle ate it with great avidity. I soon found, however, that the burn- 
 ing was injurious, as it was impossible to conduct it without cooking the cactus to a 
 greater or less extent, which caused purging in the animals. To remedy this, i. e., 
 to destroy the thorn without scorching, I took advantage of the botanical fact that 
 the thorns of Opuntia Engelmanni, the only one I use, are set at an angle of about 60 
 degrees backward to the plane of the leaf, and that a cut of half an inch would strike 
 every one of them. I therefore set the knives of my machine to a half-inch cut, aud 
 find that when cut in this manner cattle eat it fully as well as when scorched, with 
 none of the unpleasant results referred to. I feed per head about 60 pounds of the 
 cactus and an average of about 6 pounds of the meal per day for ninety days. A 
 train-load of three hundred and thirty head of these cattle sold last week iu Chicago 
 at A\ cents per pound. The meat is singularly juicy and tender, the fat w T ell distrib- 
 uted among tho muscles. I have sold it at 1 cent per pound gross over grass cattle in 
 San Antonio. 
 
 John C. Ohesley, Hamilton, Hamilton County, central Texas : 
 
 The prickly pear is used hero to a great extent. We have a ranch in Stephens County 
 where we are now feeding tho pear to over a hundred of our poorest cattle, and they 
 aro doing well on it. It is fed at nearly all of the ranches of Stephens County where 
 they aro feeding at all, and there are thousands of cattle being fed this winter on 
 prickly pear that are doing well and will come to grass in good shape that would 
 otherwise have died, or at least the larger part of them. 
 
 Tho pear should be cut and hauled to the feed-lots while tho sap is in the roots, or 
 before the warm days come, for if it is fed when the sap is in the tops it is liable to 
 cause laxness and weaken the animals. We prepare it for feeding by holding it for a 
 moment over a blaze. I believe that in the southern part of the State they have a 
 burner with which they burn of! the prickles without cutting the plants from the 
 ground, and then let the cattle eat them as they please, but we prefer to cut and feed 
 as above stated. One good man can prepare the cactus and feed about a hundred 
 head of cattle in this w T ay. A poor or half-starved animal should be fed only a small 
 quantity of it at first, which may be gradually increased until the animal is allowed 
 to eat all it wants- When fed in this manner to range-cattle we have never known 
 any injurious results. But if it is fed to steers, and they are worked immediately af- 
 terwards, even if the feed is small and they are accustomed to it, they are liable to 
 
101 
 
 Swell up. We have had them do so when we thought there was danger of its proving 
 fatal. They can be given a t'rvd at night, however, and then worked the following 
 morning without danger of any injurious results. 
 
 H. J. Hunter, M. D., Palestine, Tex. : 
 
 West of the Colorado River, in this State, the cactus grows in vast forests. I have 
 Been cattle and sheep feed on it as it grows wild. Stockmen cul it on the ground, 
 singe off the prickles, and cut in small bits for their stock. 
 
 Mr. Alonzo Millett, of Kansas City, Mo. : 
 
 I confine the treatment of my stock in La Salle. County, Tex., for their firsl six 
 weeks or two months, in that locality, almost exclusively to the feeding of prickly 
 pear, which simple measure has proved highly successful, and is worthy of more gen- 
 eral trial as a preventive of Texas fever. There is a cactus, called by the Mexicans 
 Nopal dc Castilliano, which is cultivated in this State Cor its fruit. This plant grows 
 very large and yields enormous crops of fruit, which is sold on the street for food and 
 to make beer. The young growth of the cactus is used in early spring by the Mexi- 
 cans of western Texas as food. It is cut in small pieces, mixed with Hour in a hatter. 
 and fried. It is said to bo as palatable as egg-plant. 
 
 Otanes F. Wright, Temesoal, San Bernardino County, Gal.: 
 
 .Many kinds of cactus grow here. The flat kind, or prickly pear, is abundant in 
 places. Cattle, goats, and sheep eat it sometimes without any preparation when very 
 hungry, but it looks as though needles and pins would he a pleasanter and safer diet. 
 I have never known, however, any had results to come from eating it. After boiling 
 to soften the thorns it makes good food for milch cows, and is much relished. Tin; 
 trouble of boiling prevents its extensive use. 
 
 (Plate 99.) 
 
 EUROTIA. 
 
 Eurotia lanata (White Sage). 
 
 It is a perennial, halt" shrubby plant, growing a foot or two high, with slender, 
 woolly twigs, which are abundantly covered with linear sessile leaves an inch and a 
 half long, with a velvety surface of a grayish color and with the margin rolled hack. 
 They are mostly in small fascicles or clusters. The flowers are minute and in small 
 clusters in the axils of the leaves, chiefly on the upper part of the stem. The flowers 
 are of two kinds, male and female, on separate parts of the stems, or sometimes on 
 separate plants. The small fruit is covered with long and close whitish hairs. The 
 plant belongs to the order Chenopodiacea', or the' same order as the common pig-weed. 
 
 The plant known as "white sage," or " winter fat," is abundant in 
 plaees through the Rocky Mountain region from Mexico to British 
 America. Prof. S. M. Tracy, who visited portions of Nevada, Arizona, 
 and adjoining territory, in 1SS7, investigating the native forage plants, 
 under the direction of the Commissioner of Agriculture, states that in 
 the more arid districts of Arizona, Nevada, ami Utah, this plant, with 
 grease-wood (Sarcobatus vermiculatus) , are the most highly valued plants 
 for winter forage. Au important fact in regard to the plant is its 
 ability to thrive in somewhat alkaline soils. It. is employed as a remedy 
 for intermittent fevers. (Plate 100.) 
 
102 
 
 ERODIUM. 
 
 Erodium cicutarium (Allilaria). 
 
 This annual, supposed to have been introduced from Europe, does not 
 seem to be mentioned in any work on forage plants. It occurs abun- 
 dantly and is of much value for pasture over a large extent of territory in 
 northern California and adjoining regions; elsewhere in the United 
 States it is sparingly introduced and usually regarded only as a weed, 
 though it is not very troublesome. Besides the above name it is known 
 as storksbill, pin clover, pin grass, and filaree ; it is neither a grass 
 nor a clover, but belongs to the geranium family; it starts very early, 
 grows rapidly, furnishing good early pasture, and ripens seed before the 
 hottest weather; it is of little value as hay, and is not worth introducing 
 where the ordinary forage plants can be grown. The seed is seldom 
 sown, but the plant comes spontaneously each year from self-sown seed. 
 A lew have begun its artificial propagation, and it is undoubtedly worthy 
 of introduction into other regions in the South and West having pro- 
 longed droughts; it is hardy at the Forth, but makes a much smaller 
 growth there. 
 
 Brewer and AVatson* in " The Botany of California " say in regard 
 to it: 
 
 Very common throughout fhe State, extending to British Columbia, New Mexico, 
 and Mexico; also widely distributed in South America and the Eastern Continent. 
 It has generally been considered an introduced species, but it is more decidedly 
 and widely at home throughout the interior than any other introduced plant, and 
 according to much testimony it was as common throughout California early in the 
 present century as now. It is popularly known as alfilaria, or less commonly as 
 pin clover and pin grass, and is a valuable and nutritious forage plant, reputed to 
 impart an excellent flavor to milk and butter. 
 
 Prof. E. W. Hilgard, in an article on the Agriculture and Soils of 
 California, in the Report of the Department of Agriculture for 1878, 
 page 4S8, says : 
 
 Two species of crane's-bill (Erodium cicutarium and moschatum) are even more com- 
 mon here than in Southern Europe, and the first-named is esteemed as one of the 
 most important natural pasture plants, being about the only green thiug available 
 to stock throughout the dry season, and eagerly cropped by them at all times. Its 
 Spanish name of alfilerilla (signifying a pin. and now frequently translated into 
 '-' pin weed 1 ') shows that it is an old citizen, even if possibly a naturalized one. 
 
 Otanes F. Wright, Temescal, San Bernardino County, Cal. : 
 
 Allilaria grows plentifully and is native here. It is the best grass that we have 
 during the wet season while green, but does not amount to much when dry, for it 
 shrinks much in drying, and when dry breaks easily into very tine bits, almost to 
 dust. 
 
 Allilaria and bur clover nearly always grow together on the same land; cold 
 weather never kills either of them. Stock pick for the allilaria while growing 
 (from January to June), but after it dies they hunt for the clover-burs which are on 
 the ground, and in their efforts to get the burs they roll the old dry stems into rolls, 
 sometimes as big as windrows of hay. 
 
1 03 
 
 Bur clover and filaria (alfilaria) grow on high land, and die when dry weather 
 comes. I do not know but they might be Kepi green all the year if kepi wet. 
 
 They arc about the only plants which gTow on the high laud all the year us alfalfa 
 does on the low lands. As nine-tenths of our land is dry land, you can see the extent 
 of our needs. 
 
 Daniel Griswold, Westminster, Los Angeles, Cal.: 
 
 I think alfilaria would be a good thing to raise iu the Southern States, but it, will 
 be a rather hard seed to gather, though not so hard as Bermuda grass. It produces 
 a small-jointed seed, with a beard or curl attached. Butte or Colnsa County would, 
 be the best place to obtain the seed. The plant is native here. It is never cultivated 
 but comes np of itself whenever there is rain enough. It grows everywhere (ex- 
 cept in swamps) in damp land, on the driest land, and on the tops of hills up to tins 
 snow-line. It has a root that runs slightly downward, and it has to be very dry to 
 prevent it making seed. On damp, rich land it grows huge enough to make a good 
 swath of hay. On poor or dry laud it is small and dries up, but even in its dry state 
 stock eat it clean and are very fond of it. 
 
 C. K. Orcutt, San Diego, Cal. : 
 
 Erodium cicutarium and Erodium moschatum (about equally used). grow abundantly 
 
 in southern California and through northern lower California, sometimes attaining 
 a height of 2 feet or more. They grow on dry lands, but only in wet years or where 
 there is abundant rain-fall do they attain any size. 
 
 O. F. Thorton, Phoenix, Maricopa County, Ariz. : 
 
 It is not cultivated, but is rapidly spreading on the dry ranges ({. c, valleys and 
 mountain sides), and is one of the very best wild grasses, either green or dry. 
 
 (Plate 101.) 
 
 RICHARDSONIA. 
 
 Richardsonia scabra (Mexican Clover; Spanish Clover ; Florida Clover; Water 
 Parsley; Bell-fountain; Poor Toe ; Pigeon-Weed, etc.). 
 
 This is an annual plant of the family Rubiacece which contains the 
 coffee, cinchona, and madder. It is therefore not a true clover, that 
 name having perhaps been given from the general appearance of the 
 plant and the fact that the flowers are mostly borne in terminal heads. 
 The stem is spreading, branching, and somewhat hairy, and the leaves, 
 unlike the clovers, are composed of a single piece. The plant is a native 
 of Mexico and South America, which has become naturalized in the 
 United States, especially along the Gulf coast, where its chief value 
 seems to be as a renovator of poor, sandy soils. In more dry, exposed 
 regions it seems to require rich, cultivated soils in order to do well. It 
 has been but little cultivated, and it is not known how for north it may 
 be grown successfully, but it would probably have little value where 
 clover can be readily grown. The statements in regard to its value for 
 pasture and hay are very conflicting. It is usually quite succulent and 
 not readily cured in the climate where it is most largely grown, As it 
 grows chiefly in cultivated grounds, it is often looked upon only as a 
 weed. 
 
104 
 
 B. B. Van fiuron, Lakeside, Fla. : 
 
 I Lave disseminated the Spanish clover all over my place, as I consider it a val- 
 uable plant for improving the land. It is also a very good forage plant, and will 
 grow on the poorest soil without manure. 
 
 J. C. Neal, M. D., Archer, Fla.: 
 
 Grows rapidly, seeds itself, and makes a fair looking lawn or field, but I have not 
 
 found a cow or horse that would touch it green or dry. 
 
 J. G. Knapp, Hillsborough County, south era Florida: 
 
 Found in moist fields in this county and considered a valueless weed. It is not 
 eat i'ii green by either cattle or horses, and grows Hat on the ground, so that it can not 
 he cut for hay. On account of the large number of seeds it perfects it is difficult to 
 eradicate. It is spoken of in some sections as a. fertilizing plant. In my opinion it 
 has no other value, and I estimate it low for that purpose. 
 
 B. C. Smith, Cold Water, Ga. : 
 
 Thrives only on highly fertilized soils, in the best of tilth, where it gives a large 
 yield. Mexican clover, being very similar to purslane, is very hard to cure, and is not 
 well relished by cattle or horses. 
 
 C. Menelas, Savannah, Ga. : 
 
 I have seen it only on the Gulf coast, where it nourishes luxuriantly without cul- 
 tivation, and is dreaded by nearly every one as a weed. Stock appear to be very 
 fond of it, and the yield per acre must he very heavy. 
 
 Dr. Charles Mohr, Mobile, Ala. : 
 
 Introduced from the neighboring tropics and perfectly naturalized. It is never 
 cultivated, hut takes possession of the fields, and arrives at the period of its fullest 
 growth after the crops of vegetables, Irish potatoes, corn, and oats, are laid by or 
 have been removed, yielding spontaneous crops of hay and affording fully two cut- 
 tings during the season of from 1 to 2 tons per acre, according to tin; fertility of the 
 field. 
 
 In 1874 the same gentleman sent a sample of hay of this plant to the 
 Department, which was found to be nearly as rich in food elements as 
 clover hay. In his letter he then said : 
 
 It forms a large and important part of the pine-woods pasture in this county. It 
 is much relished by horses and mutes, which seem to thrive Avell upon it, and sheep 
 feed upon it with great avidity. The plant is known here by the name of " Mexican 
 clover," "poor toes," or "pigeon- weed." Seventeen years ago it was hut sparse; 
 now it occurs in all our cultivated grounds, covering them with a luxuriant vegeta- 
 tion after the crops of the summer have been removed. 
 
 Thomas J. Key, editor Southern Agriculturist, Montgomery, Ala.: 
 
 It grows luxuriantly on cultivated, sandy lands in the southern part of the State, 
 makes excellent hay, and matures after corn has been laid by. 
 
 James B. Siger, Haudsborough, southern Mississippi: 
 
 Of late years Mexican clover has been introduced and grown among the crab grass. 
 It is spreading rapidly. Its habits and manner of cultivation are the same as crab 
 grass. Cattle will pick it out from any other hay and eat it in preference to any. 
 
 Edward C. Reid, Meridian, Miss.: 
 
 It is hardy, and grows on the poorest sandy land from the coast up to* the Cretace- 
 ous formation. It stands drought and is hard to exterminate. It conies up after 
 corn is laid by, and on cotton-land covers the cotton. It. is not especially valuable 
 as a pasture plant, as it comes up late and pasturing kills it out. In cultivated 
 lands it reseeds itself, and comes up year after year. 
 
Clarke Lewis, Cliftonville, Noxubee County, Miss.: 
 
 It prows in the Gulf States, on sandy land, and furnishes abundant forage of fail 
 
 quality on poor soil. There is none in this section. 
 
 W. II. Nevill, Binnsville, Miss.: 
 
 Does well in the southern half of the Gulf States. 
 
 J. II. Mnrdock, Bryan, Brazos County, central Texas : 
 
 It is grown hero and stands drought very well on our light, sandy soils, and makes 
 good pastures iu its season. 
 
 Mr. Matt. Coleman, Leesburgb, Sumter County, Fla., in 1878, wrote 
 to the Department: 
 
 The tradition is, that when the Spanish evacuated Pensacola this plant was dis- 
 covered there by the cavalry horse;* feeding upon it eagerly. Five years ago I pro- 
 cure d some of the seed and have since grown it in my orange groves as a forage plant 
 and fertilizer. It grows on thin pine land 4 to C feet in length, branching, and form- 
 ing a thick mat, which affords all the mulch my trees require. It requires two days' 
 sun to dry it, and its sweet hay is relished by horses and cattle. The white bloom 
 opens in the morning and closes at evening, and is visited by bees and butterflies. 
 
 (Plate 102.) 
 
ADDENDUM. 
 
 So much interest is now felt in the matter of new varieties of grasses, 
 especially by the Western experiment stations, that it is thought best 
 to add descriptions and figures of some additional species which have 
 been recommended for trial. 
 
 The Colorado experiment station, aided by this Department, gave 
 especial attention last summer to the collection of seeds of the native 
 grasses of that region, and some fifty kinds were selected, and will be 
 subjected to cultivation on the arid land of that section. 
 
 Other western stations will take up the same line of work in the 
 future. The illustrations given are especially valuable for the identifi- 
 cation of the various species by students or by any persons who are in- 
 terested in the subject. 
 
 e Panicum gibbum. 
 
 A perennial species, growing in .swamps and low, wet ground in the Southern 
 States from North Carolina to Florida. The stem is decumbent, branching and. root- 
 ing at the lower joints. The panicle is 3 to 5 inches long, and narrow, the branches 
 being appressed. The leaves are smooth or smoothish, half an inch broad, and fi to 8 
 inches long. The whole grass is of a deep green color. The flowers drop off soon 
 after flowering. The grass, if it occurs in abundance, would be of considerable value, 
 as it furnishes a good deal of nutritious matter. 
 
 Mr. J. H. Simpson, of Manatee, Fla., writes as follows : 
 
 This most valuable grass seems to have been entirely overlooked as far as its quali- 
 ties for hay and pasturage are concerned. It is perfectly at home in any situation. 
 It usually grows in wet places, with culms 2 or 3 feet high. The late J. N. Harris 
 informed me that he believed that from 3 to 5 tons of most excellent hay could be 
 cut per acre, and that it was an excellent pasture grass. He had experimented with 
 it for years. 
 
 (Plate 103.) 
 
 Muhlenbergia comata. 
 
 This species is closely related to M. glomcrata. It grows throughout the Rocky 
 Mountain region in Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Idaho, and California, usually on the 
 sandy and alluvial banks of streams. It grows in tufts from firm, creeping root 
 stocks. The culms are erect, 2 to 3 feet high, and leafy below. Tne panicle is 2 to 
 4 inches long, narrow and close, sometimes interrupted below, generally of a dark 
 lead-color, and of soft texture. The outer glumes are very narrow and acute, and 
 the flowering glume is surrounded at the base by a copious tuft of silky hairs. The 
 slender awn of the flowering glume is three or four times its length. 
 
 (Plate 104.) 
 
 Sporobolus heterolepis (Bunch Grass; Wire Grass). 
 
 This is called bunch grass and wire grass from the abundant, long, 
 wiry leaves and stems. 1 found it a considerable element in the prairies 
 10G 
 
107 
 
 bf southern Dakota, and It-occurs southward to Texas. It was also 
 Common on the prairies of Illinois and Wisconsin before the incoming 
 of settlements. West of the 100th meridian, however, especially in 
 
 sandy soils, this species is replaced by two others of the same genus, 
 viz: Sporobolus cryptandrm and 8. airoides. All these species should 
 receive attention. 
 
 It grows in dense, firmly rooted tufts, principally west of the Mississippi River, 
 from British America to Arkansas. The panicle is from :\ to 6 inches long, rather 
 loose; the branches, two to three together, slender, and with a few rather distant 
 flowers. 
 
 A writer in the Agricultural Report for 1870 says; 
 
 This species may he identified from its long, slender leaves, growing abundantly 
 from the base of the plant, gracefully curving; from its-tendency to grow in bunches 
 or stools, and when in fruit from its small panicle of sharp-pointed spikelets and its 
 round seeds. These, when bruised, emit a strong, heavy, and rather disagreeable 
 
 odor. It is sometimes cultivated for hay, and makes an article of line quality. 
 
 Sporobolus airoides (Bunch Grass ; S^ilt Grass). 
 
 Culms (arising from strong perennial creeping root-stocks) 2 to 3 feet high, thick- 
 ened at the base and clothed with numerous long, rigid, generally involute, long- 
 pointed, smooth leaves, which are bearded in the throat of The sheath. The panicle 
 is C to 12 inches long and 3 to 4 inches wide, thin and spreading ; the branches cap- rt 
 illary, and scattered or in whorls below, subdivided above the middle, and rather 
 sparsely flowered. 
 
 It is common on the arid plains of the West, is sometimes called salt 
 grass, and affords persistent pasturage where other grasses are tramped 
 but. (Plate 105). 
 
 Agrostis exarata, var. Pacifica (Pacific Coast Redtop). 
 
 This variety grows chietly on the Pacific coast, from California to Alaska. It is 
 often more robust than the common or eastern redtop. growing 2 to '.) feet high, with 
 a stout, firm culm, clothed with three or four broadish leaves 4 to <> inches long. 
 The panicle is 4 to 6 inches long, rather loose, heavier, and closer than tic proper 
 species. 
 
 There is reason to believe that tliis species can be made to supply the 
 same valuable place on the Pacific coast that the A. vulgaris does at 
 the East. It deserves trial. (Plate 10(3). 
 
 Deschampsia caespitosa (Hair Grass). 
 
 This is an exceedingly varied species, having a wide distribution in 
 this and other countries. It is somewhat rare east of the Mississippi, 
 but on the elevated plains of the Rocky Mountains and in California 
 and Oregon it is one of the common bunch grasses which afford pastur- 
 age to cattle and horses. At the East it is found in the hilly regions 
 of New England and the Alleghanies. It grows in bunches, which are 
 firmly rooted. The culms are 2 to 4 feet high. The root-leaves are 
 very numerous, long, and narrow. The panicle is very handsome, pre- 
 senting a purple and glossy hue, and a loose, graceful appearance. Its 
 cnlins are too light for hay - making, but the abundant root leaves may 
 
108 
 
 make it valuable for pasturage, especially in the arid districts. (Plate 
 107.) 
 
 Chloris alba. 
 
 An annual grass, growing in tofts, 2 to !_ feet high, smooth, the culms branching 
 and bent at the lower joints: the leaves are numerous and rather broad, the nppe 
 sheaths dilated and at tir>t inclosing the flower spikes, which are in a close cluster, 
 eight to fifteen in number and 2 to H inches long. The flowers are Bessile am 
 crowded in two rows on one side of The spikes. It is a common gras^ in the arid dis 
 tricts of Texas. New Mexico, and Arizona. It furnishes a large amount of foliage; 
 ami may prove useful in localities to which it is adapted. (Plate 108.) 
 
 Diplachne dubia. 
 
 A perennial grass of vigorous growth, growing 3 or 4 feet high, the culms rathe 
 stout and erect, with an abundance of foliage, the leaves being quite long and nar 
 row. The panicle is from 6 to 12 inches long, consisting of from 10 to 20 narrow 
 spreading spike>. each 4 to 6 inches long, mostly scattered on the axis, or 
 or three together. The spikelets are three to rive-tlowered, the empty glumes linear 
 lanceolate and acute. The flowering glumes are oblong, obtuse, two-lobed, and smootl 
 except on the margins. 
 
 Its principal range is in the South west, from Texas to Arizona. 11 
 
 is a promising' grass, and should receive the attention of agriculturists 
 
 (Plate 109.) 
 
 Melica. 
 
 Spikelets two to many-flowered : the flowers usually convolute around each other 
 the upper one small and imperfect: the empty glumes arc membranaceous and awn 
 
 38, he lower one three to five-nerved, the upper five to nine-nerved, the lateral nerv 
 not reaching to the apex. The flowering glumes are of thicker texture, becoming 
 coriaceous. Bcarious near the apex, mostly rounded on the back, live to nine-nerved 
 the lateral nerves not reaching the apex, the central one sometimes ending in a shor 
 point or even in a long awn : the palets shorter than their glumes, two-keeled and cil 
 iate on the keels. Of this genus we have ten or twelve species. 
 
 Melica diffusa. 
 
 A perennial species, growing in rocky woods or ravines throughout the Rocky Mount 
 ains in Colorado and New Mexico. It grow* in loose tufts, the culms about 2 feet high 
 the lower h aves and sheaihs soft hairy, the upper leaves narrow, 3 to 4 inches loin 
 and pointed. The panicle is or 8 inches long. open, with rather few (6-8) branches 
 3 to 4 inches long, rather distant from each other, and somewhat spreading: tin 
 spikelets are large. 4 to 6 lines long, and three to" five-flowered, the upper flower im 
 perfect. The empty glumes are quite unequal and much shorter than the spikelets 
 The dowering glumes are many-nerved below, with a broad scarious margin above 
 The palets are narrower and shorter than the flowering glumes and fringed on the 
 keel. 
 
 This grass is relished by cattle, but as its preference is for shaded 
 places it may not be adapted for general culture. (Plate 110.) 
 
 Melica bulbosa. 
 
 This species is distinguished by its large bulbous roots, or, more properly, by the 
 bulb-like enlargement of the base of the stem. It grows 2 to 3 feet-high, the leaves 
 narrow, scabrous, and becoming involute. The panicle is narrow, from 1 to 6 inche 
 long, with short appressed branches. The spikelets are about half an inch long, with 
 five to Beven perfect flowers; the empty glumes are three to four lines long, or nearly 
 
10!) 
 
 as long as fche flow •■] ing glumes, which are oblong-lauci olate, si veu- u< i \ «■<!, and ob- 
 
 t use or notched al t he apex. 
 
 This species grows in Oregon, Washington, California, Nevada, Mon- 
 tana, Utah, and Colorado. (Plate 111.) 
 
 Melica imperfecta. 
 
 This is one of the commonest grasses throughout California, particularly in fche 
 eoutheru portion. There are several varieties, which differ considerably in size and 
 general appearance. The culms ait' from 1 to 3 feel high, rather slender and wiry, 
 t lie loaves rather numerous and narrow. The pani< le varies from 6 to 12 iuches in 
 length, sometimes narrow, but usually spreading, with rather long and distant 
 branches, which are whorled about in threes of unequal length and numerously 
 powered. The spikelets have one or two perfect flowers, with a short, club-shaped, 
 imperfect one. The empty glumes arc shorter than fche flowers and three to five- 
 nerved, the flowering glume about seven-nerved, usually purplish and acute. It is 
 not bulbiferous. 
 
 The larger forms of this grass certainly deserve trial for culture in 
 California. (Plate lllV 
 
 Uniola. 
 
 This genus has closely many-flowered spikelets, usually large, very flat, and two- 
 edged, one or more of the lower flowers consisting only of an empty glume; the 
 empty glumes are closely folded together, keeled, rigid, or coriaceous; the flowering 
 
 ones are of similar texture, but larger, many-nerved, usually acute and entire, the 
 palet -rigid, with the keels narrowly winged. 
 
 Uniola latifolia (Broad Leaved Uniola ; Large-flowered Oat Grass). 
 
 This is a handsome grass, growing 2 to 3 feet high, witb very broad 
 leaves and a large spreading panicle. The drooping- spikelets are larger 
 than those of any other North American grass, being- an inch or more 
 long and half as wide, consisting- often or twelve flowers.' 
 
 It grows from Pennsylvania to Kansas and southward. 
 
 Dr. Charles Mohr, Mobile, Ala., says of this grass: 
 
 A line vernal grass with a rich foliage, hlooming early in May ; frequently in damp, 
 sandy loam, forming large tufts. This perennial grass is certainly valuable, affording 
 an abundant range early in the season ; if cultivated it would yield large crops ready 
 for cutting from the 1st of May. It is called by some wild fescue or oat grass. 1 am 
 not able to judge of its value as a pasture grass. 
 
 (Plate 113.) 
 
 Glyceria Canadensis (Rattlesnake Grass ; Tall Quaking Grass). 
 
 Of this genus two species have been already described. This species belongs to the 
 northern portion of the United States, usually found in mountainous districts, in 
 swamps, and river- borders, growing in large tufts. The culms are stout, about 3 
 feet high, smooth and leafy. The leaves are 6 to 9 inches long, the lower ones often 
 twice as long and quite broad. The paniele is large and diffuse, 6 to ( J inches long, 
 the branches long, slender, and drooping. The branches are more or less whorled, 
 mostly in threes, the largest 3 to 4 inches long, and often subdivided. The spikelets 
 are oblong or ovate, rather turgid, usually six to eight-flowered. 
 
 This is quite an ornamental grass. Cattle are fond of it, both green 
 and when made into hay. It is well adapted to low meadows and yields 
 a large quantity of foliage. 
 
110 
 
 Hon. J. S. Gould says: 
 
 It is usually found at high elevations, in swampy land, and by the margin of streams 
 It is very anl to grow in clumps. Ir is one of the most beautiful oi and is 
 
 exceedingly ornamental in grass boquetS. It is abundant on the Catskill and White 
 
 Mountains, and on the Raqnette waters of the Adirondacks. Cattle eat it very well 
 in oast uic and when made into hay. 
 
 (Plate 111.) 
 
 
I N I> K X 
 
 Page. 
 
 Agropyrum glaucum 7,7") 
 
 Agropyruni lepens 7, 75 
 
 Agropyrum tenerum 70 
 
 Agrogtis alba 40 
 
 Agrostis canina .. 47 
 
 Agrostis exarata 47 
 
 Agrostis exarata var. Pacifica 107 
 
 Agrostis stolonifera 4fi 
 
 Agrostis vulgaris 40 
 
 Alfalfa 84 
 
 Alfilana 102 
 
 Alkaline grass 61 
 
 Alopecurus geniculatns 40 
 
 Alopecuras geniculatns, var. aristulatus 40 
 
 Alopecurus occidentalis 41 
 
 Alopecurus pratensis 40 
 
 Ammophila arundinacea 43 
 
 Andropogon furcatus 7,35 
 
 Andropogou Hallii 35 
 
 Andropogon macrourus '. 35 
 
 Andropogan provindalis 35 
 
 Andropogou scoparius 7, 35 
 
 Andropogon Virginicus 35 
 
 A uthoxanthum odoratuni 40 
 
 Aristida purpurea 41 
 
 Arrhenatherum avenaceum 52 
 
 Arrow grass '. 42 
 
 A r undo don ax 00 
 
 Arundinaria tecta 78 
 
 Austin grass . . •■ 25 
 
 A vena fat ua 52 
 
 Barley, wild 70 
 
 Barnyard grass 27 
 
 Beach grass 48 
 
 Beckinannia erucaeformis 24 
 
 BeU-fouutain 103 
 
 Bent grass - 40 
 
 Bentgrass, Rhode Island 47 
 
 Bermuda grass 54 
 
 Blanket grass 23 
 
 Blue grass, Kentucky 00 
 
 Blue grass, Texas 04 
 
 Blue t;rass, English 65 
 
 Blueprint 48,75 
 
 Bin- stem 35, 75 
 
 Boutelona oligostacbya 7,57 
 
 Bouteloua racemosa 7,57 
 
 Brizopyrum spicatum 62 
 
 Bromus ciliatns 74 
 
 Bromns Schraderi .'. 74 
 
 Bromus secalinus 73 
 
 Bromus unioioides 73 
 
 Bromns "Willdenovii 74 
 
 Broom corn . . , — . . 37 
 
 Page 
 
 Broom grass, heavy-topped 35 
 
 Broom sedge 35 
 
 Buchloe dactyloidcs 
 
 Buffalo grass 25, 57, .',u 
 
 Bunch grass 6, 35, 12, 72, 107 
 
 Bur clover i 92 
 
 Cactus 
 
 Calamagrostis Aleutica 7 
 
 Calamagrostis Canadensis 7, 1 - : 
 
 Calamagrostis longifolia 7, 49 
 
 Calamagrostis neglecta 7 
 
 Calamagrostis sylvatica 7, 19 
 
 Canary grass, reed 38 
 
 Canary grass, southern reed 39 
 
 Canary grass, Stewart's 39 
 
 Cane, small 78 
 
 Cane, switeli 78 
 
 Ceratochloa unioloidos 71 
 
 Cheat 73 
 
 Chess 73 
 
 Chloris alba 108 
 
 Chrysopogon nutans 7, 3G 
 
 China arundinacca. 17 
 
 Cinna pendula 47 
 
 Clover, Alsike 81 
 
 Clover, Brazilian 81 
 
 Clover, bur ( J2 
 
 Clover, Chilian. 81 
 
 Clover, Dutch 82 
 
 Clover, Florida 103 
 
 Clover, French 82, 81 
 
 Clover, Japan 95 
 
 (Mover, mammoth 80 
 
 Clover, Mexican It 3 
 
 Clover, pin 103 
 
 Clover, red 79 
 
 Clover, running buffalo 83 
 
 Clover, Spanish 103 
 
 Clover, white 82 
 
 Cord grass 50 
 
 Corn, broom 37 
 
 Conch grass 75 
 
 Crab grass 27, 58 
 
 Crowfoot 62 
 
 Cuba grass 30 
 
 Cut grass 34 
 
 Cynodon Dactylon 5i 
 
 Dactylis glomerata 02 
 
 Dactyloctenium iEgyptiacum 58 
 
 Darnel, poison 75 
 
 Deschampsia csespitosa 6, 107 
 
 Desmodium molle U4 
 
 Desmodinm tortuosum 94 
 
 Devil's knitting m-edles 42 
 
 11! 
 
112 
 
 Deyeuxia Canadensis. . 
 !)• in uxia sylvatica ... . 
 
 Diplachu tlubia 
 
 Distich I is marititna ... 
 
 Dotu ra 
 
 Egyptian mass 
 
 Eleusine .Lgyptiaca . . . 
 
 Eleusine Cndioa 
 
 Blymus Canadensis ... 
 Elyiuu.s condensatns . 
 Ely ma a triticoides . . . 
 
 Elymus Virginicaa 
 
 Eragrostia A-byssinica 
 
 Eragrostia major 
 
 Erodium ciciitarinm .. 
 
 Esparsotto 
 
 Euchlaeua Luxurians.. . 
 
 Eurotia lanata 
 
 Evergreen grass 
 
 False rice 
 
 Fescue, meadow 
 
 Fescue, Bbeep's 
 
 Fescue, tail 
 
 Festuca elatior 
 
 Festuca ovina 
 
 Festuca pratensis 
 
 Festuca scabrella . ... . 
 
 Festuca anioloidus 
 
 Filaree 
 
 Finotop 
 
 Fioriu 
 
 Fowl meadow grass 
 
 Foxtail, meadow 
 
 Foxtail. Rocky Mountain 
 
 Foxtail, water 
 
 Gi-ama grass 
 
 Gietta grass 
 
 Gilbert's relief grass 
 
 Glyceria arundinacea 
 
 Glyceria Canadensis 
 
 Glyceria flnitans 
 
 Glyceria nervata 
 
 Goose grass 
 
 Grama, black 
 
 Grama grass 
 
 Green Valley grass 
 
 Guinea grass, Alabama 
 
 Guinea grass, true 
 
 Hair grass 
 
 Herd's grass (of Now England and New 
 
 York) 
 
 Herd's grass (of Pennsylvania) 
 
 Hilaria Jamesii 
 
 Holcus lanatus 
 
 Hordeumjubatum 
 
 Hordeum murinnm 
 
 Ilordeum prat en se 
 
 Hungarian grass 
 
 Indian rice 
 
 Johnsou grass 
 
 June urasa 
 
 Ivaderia cristata 
 
 Leersia hexandra 
 
 Leeraia oryzoides 
 
 Leersia Virginica 
 
 i- 
 
 19 
 
 108 
 
 ,<il 
 
 37 
 36 
 
 Gl 
 61 
 
 102 
 83 
 30 
 
 101 
 52 
 34 
 71 
 
 71 
 71 
 
 r, 72 
 
 71 
 
 r. 72 
 
 74 
 102 
 4G 
 46 
 G7 
 40 
 41 
 40 
 30 
 34 
 39 
 G9 
 109 
 70 
 70 
 25 
 34 
 3,57 
 36 
 36 
 25 
 107 
 
 44 
 46 
 34 
 50 
 7G 
 
 Page. 
 
 Lespcdeza b1 i iata Of 
 
 Lolium polemic 74 
 
 Lolium temnloutum 75 
 
 Louisiana grass 23 
 
 Lucerne. 81 
 
 Lyme grass 77 
 
 Manna grass, floating * 70 
 
 Marsh grass 56 
 
 Meadow grass, fowl G7 
 
 Meadow grass, nerved 70 
 
 Meadow grass, reed 69 
 
 Meadow grass, rough-stalked G8 
 
 Meadow -rass, tall 69 
 
 Meadow oat grass - 52 
 
 Mean's grass 36 
 
 Medicago denticulata 92 
 
 Medicago maculata 93 
 
 Medicago sativa 84 
 
 Medick M 
 
 Melica bulbosa 108 
 
 Melica diffusa 108 
 
 Melica imperfecta ^03 
 
 Mesquite 6.57 
 
 Milium eflusum 43 
 
 Millet, Arabian evergreen 36 
 
 Millet, Australian 36 
 
 Millet, cat tail 30 
 
 Millet, Egyptian 30 
 
 Millet, ever.reen.. 36 
 
 Millet, German 29 
 
 Millet, Morocco 
 
 Millet, pearl 
 
 Millet, Texas 25 
 
 Milletgrass 27 
 
 Millo maize 37 
 
 Millo maize, red 38 
 
 Muhlenbergia comata 106 
 
 Muhlenbergia diffusa 43 
 
 Muhlenbergia glonn rata 43 
 
 Muhlenbergia Mexicaua 43 
 
 Muhlenbergia, spiked 43 
 
 Muhlenbergia sylvatica — 41 
 
 Mnnroa squarrusa 
 
 Nimble Will '. ^ 
 
 Oat grass, large flowered 109 
 
 Oat grass, meadow 
 
 Oat grass, tall 
 
 Oats, wild 36. 52 
 
 Onobrychis sativa 81 
 
 Opuntia Engelmariui 98 
 
 Opuntia vulgaris --• 96 
 
 Orchard grass 62 
 
 Oryzopsis cuspidat i 6,41 
 
 Panic grass, t wu-edged m 
 
 Panic grass, t. ill 
 
 Panicum agros t ides 
 
 Panicum ancops 
 
 Panicum barbinode 
 
 Panicum Crus-galli 27 
 
 Panicum gibbuin 100 
 
 Panicum jximentorum 
 
 Panicum maximum '-' ' 
 
 Panicum miliaceum 
 
 Panicum proliferum, var. geniculatum. ... 
 Panicum redtop 
 
113 
 
 . Pag* 
 
 Panicnm sanguinale 27 
 
 Panicum Texauuni 25 
 
 Panicum virgatura 28 
 
 rass.- 26 
 
 Parsley, water 103 
 
 Paspalum dilatatnm 22 
 
 Paspalutn distich inn 24 
 
 Paspalum, hairy- flowered 22 
 
 Paspalum ovatutn 
 
 Paspalum platycaulo 23 
 
 Penicillaria spicata 30 
 
 PeDuisetum spicatnra -.. 30 
 
 Phalaris arundinacea 38 
 
 Phalaris intermedia 39 
 
 Phalaria intermedia, var. angusta 39 
 
 Phleum pratenBe 44 
 
 Pigeon grass 30 
 
 Pigeon wind 103 
 
 Pin clover 102 
 
 l'iu grass '. 102 
 
 Pragmites communis — 60 
 
 Poa andina G9 
 
 Poa arachnifera 64 
 
 Poa compressa 65 
 
 Poa pratensis 66 
 
 Poaserotina 6" 
 
 Poa tenoifolia 68 
 
 Poa trivialis 6S 
 
 Poa trivialis, var. occidentals GO 
 
 Poor toe 103 
 
 Porcupine grass 42 
 
 Prickly pear 98 
 
 Quack grass 75 
 
 Quaking .mass, tall 109 
 
 Randall grass TL 
 
 Rattlesnake grass 109 
 
 Red millo maize 38 
 
 Redtop 40 
 
 Redtop, Pacific coast 1 7 
 
 Redtop Panicum 28 
 
 Reed grass 50 
 
 Reed mass, giant GO 
 
 Reed grass, snail 4* 
 
 Reed grass, wood 47 
 
 Relief grass, Gilbert's 39 
 
 Rescue grass 7:> 
 
 Rice, false 34 
 
 Rice, Indian 33 
 
 Rice, wild 33 
 
 Richardsonia scabra •. 103 
 
 River grass 25 
 
 Rye grass 77 
 
 Rye grass, giant 77 
 
 Rye grass, Italian 74 
 
 Rye grass, wild 77 
 
 Rye. wild 77 
 
 Saccatoo 42 
 
 Sage, white 101 
 
 Sainfoin 83 
 
 Salt grass 5G, 61, 107 
 
 Sand grass 48 
 
 Sarcobatus vennieulatns 101 
 
 Schrader's grass 73 
 
 Setaria glauca 30 
 
 3594 GR 8 
 
 Setaria Italics 2'.) 
 
 i viridis 30 
 
 Slough grass 2! 
 
 Smut grass 15 
 
 s-.ii prass 50 
 
 Sorghum halepense :;i» 
 
 Sorghum, sugar 37 
 
 Sorghum vulgare :;7 
 
 Spartiua cyuosuroides. 56 
 
 Spartinajuncea 56 
 
 Spear grass GO 
 
 Sporoholus airoides 107 
 
 Sporoholus cryptandrua 45 
 
 Sporoholus heterolepis 107 
 
 Sporoholus Indicus ;". 
 
 Sprouting crab grass 20 
 
 Squirrel-tail grass 70 
 
 Stipa avenacea ;: 
 
 Stipa comata 
 
 Stipa pi nnata ;_■ 
 
 Stipa setigera 6 
 
 Stipa spartea. 0, 41. 42 
 
 Stipa viridnla 0.41 
 
 Storksbill 102 
 
 Sweet vernal grass 39 
 
 Switch cane 78 
 
 Switch grass 28 
 
 Teff-... 61 
 
 Teosinte 31 
 
 Terrell grass 77 
 
 Timothy 44 
 
 Timothy, Ca] ;;:) 
 
 Trefoil, Spanish 84 
 
 Trifolium hybridum 81 
 
 Trifolium incarnatum 82 
 
 Trifolium medium 80 
 
 : 79 
 
 Tiii'olimu repens 82 
 
 Trifolium stoloniferum 82 
 
 Triodia acuminata 59 
 
 Triodia sesleroides 59 
 
 Triodia stricta 59 
 
 Triodia Texana 59 
 
 Tripsacnm dactyloidea 30 
 
 Trisetum palustre 51 
 
 Tris< turn subspicatum 51 
 
 Uniola, hroad leaved 109 
 
 Uniola latifolia 109 
 
 Velvet glass 50 
 
 Velvet nn isquite 50 
 
 Vernal grass, sweet 40 
 
 Water parsley 103 
 
 White grass 34 
 
 White grass, small-flowered 34 
 
 White Bag-i 101 
 
 Wild barley 76 
 
 Wild oats 36, 52 
 
 Wildrice 33 
 
 Wild rye 77 
 
 Wire grass 35. 107 
 
 Wood reed grass .47, 58, 65 
 
 Yard grass ^>'S 
 
 Zacate 34 
 
 Zizauica aquatica 33 
 
NOTE. 
 
 It has been thought well to attach to the foregoing, in the form of an 
 appendix, a report of Mr. Clifford Richardson, formerly Assistant 
 Chemist of the Department of Agriculture, on the Chemical Composi- 
 tion of American Grasses, from investigations made by him in the 
 laboratory of the Department of Agriculture, 1878-1882. 
 
 The appendix also includes, for the benefit of those readers who may 
 wish to familiarize themselves with them, a glossary of the botanical 
 terms used in describing grasses. 
 
 115 
 
APPENDIX. 
 
 THE CHEMICAL COMPOSITION 
 
 OF 
 
 AMERICAN GRASSES 
 
 FROM 
 
 INVESTIGATIONS IN THE LABORATORY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF 
 AGRICULTURE, 1878-1882. 
 
 CLIFFORD RICHARDSON. 
 
 FORMERLY ASSISTANT CHEMIST. 
 
 ir 
 
THE CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF AMERICAN" GRASSES. 
 
 In submitting grasses to chemical analysis, with a view of judging of 
 their nutritive value, it is usual to determine the amount present of 
 water, ash, fat or oil, liber, and nitrogen. From the latter the amount of 
 albuminoids to which it is equivalent is readily calculated by multiply- 
 ing by a factor which represents the percent, of nitrogen present in the 
 average albuminoid, and by substracting the sum of all these constitu- 
 ents from one hundred, the percentage of undetermined matter is ob- 
 tained, and as it of course contains no nitrogen, and consists of the ex- 
 tractive principles of the plant, it is described as "Nitrogen free extract." 
 It includes all the carbo-hydrates, such as sugar, starch, and gum, to- 
 gether with certain other allied substances, with which we are less in- 
 timately acquainted, but which have a certain nutritive value. 
 
 Although it has been customary to state as albuminoids the equiva- 
 lent of the nitrogen found, this is rarely entirely correct, as a portion is 
 generally present in a less highly elaborated form of a smaller nutritive 
 value. This portion is described as non-albuminoid nitrogen, and in 
 analyses of the present day the amount is always given as an additional 
 source of information, although our knowledge of its exact value to the 
 animal is rather uncertain. 
 
 The ultimate composition of the ash is also frequently determined, 
 and examples of the results obtained are of interest as showing the min- 
 eral matter that grasses withdraw from the soil. 
 
 Without entering into a discussion of the nutritive value of the several 
 constituents ot the grasses, for which reference can be made to Armsby's 
 Manual of Cattle Feeding, it is sufficient to say that during the past few 
 years the greater portion of the species described by Dr. Vasey in the 
 preceding portion of this Bulletin have been analyzed, and the results 
 collected and re-arranged, with some corrections, from the annual reports 
 of the Department are presented in the following pages. 
 . The first series consists of analyses made with specimens collected at 
 or near the time of blooming. Their origin is as follows: 
 
 No. of anal. 
 
 1. Paspalum Iceve (Water Grass). From Prof. S. B. Buckley, Austin, Tex. 1^78. 
 
 2. Paspalum la re (Water Grass). From the Eastern Experimental Farm, West 
 
 Grove, Chester County, Pa. 1880, August 23-29. 
 
 3. Paspalum dilatatum. From S. L. Goodale, Saco, Me. 1880. 
 
 4. Pa si) a I urn praecox. From Charles Mohr, Mobile, Ala. 1879. 
 
 119 
 
120 
 
 No. of annl. 
 
 5. Panicum filiforme. From Charles Mohr, Mobile, Aia. 1878. 
 (>. Panicum sanguinale (Crab Grass). From Charles Mohr, Mobile, Ala. 1878. 
 
 7. Panicum sanguinale (Crab Grass). From the grounds of the Department. Jane 
 
 23, 1880. 
 
 8. Panicum sanguinale (Crab Grass). From the Eastern Experimental Farm, West 
 
 Grove, Chester County, Pa. August It, 1880. 
 
 9. Panicum maximum. From Charles Mohr, Mobile, Ala. 1878. 
 
 10. Panicum Tcxanum (Texas Millet). From Prof. 8. B. Buckley, Austin, Tex. 1879. 
 
 11. Panicum proliferum (Large Crab Grass). " Very ripe and rank." From Charles 
 
 Mohr, Mobile, Ala. 1879. 
 
 12. Panicum agrostoides (Marsh Panic). From W. S. Robertson, Muscogee,' Ind. T. 
 
 1879. 
 
 13. Panicum anccps. From Charles Mohr, Mobile, Ala. 1879. 
 
 14. Panicum dnceps. From the Eastern Experiment Farm, West Grove, Chester 
 
 County, Pa. July 31, 1880. 
 
 15. Panicum Crus-galli (Barnyard Grass). From Charles Mohr, Mobile, Ala. 1879. 
 1(>. Panicum Crus-galli (Barnyard Grass). From Prof. S. B. Buckley, Austin, Tex. 
 
 17. Panicum Crus-galli ( Cock'sfoot). From the Eastern Experimental Farm, West 
 
 Grove, Chester County, Pa. August 25, 1880. 
 
 18. Panicum virgatum (Panic Grass). From W. S. Robertson, Muscogee, Ind. T. 1879. 
 
 Low growth. 
 
 19. Panicum virgatum (Tall Panic or Switch Grass). From Prof. S. B. Buckley, Aus- 
 
 tin, Tex. 1878. 
 
 20. Panicum virgatum (Tall Panic or Switch Grass). From Charles Mohr, Mobile, Ala. 
 
 1878. 
 
 21. Panicum virgatum (Tall Panic or Switch Grass). From W. S. Robertson, Musco- 
 
 gee, Ind. T. 1879. Tall growth. 
 
 22. Panicum divarication. From Charles Mohr, Mobile, Ala. 1879. 
 
 23. Panicum gibbum. From Charles Mohr, Mobile, Ala. 1879. 
 
 24. Panicum obtusum. From Prof. S. B. Buckley, Austin, Tex. 1878. 
 
 2.">. Panicum capillare (Witch Grass). From W, S. Robertson, Muscogee, Ind. T. 1879. 
 
 26. Panicum dichotomum. From Charles Mohr, Mobile, Ala. 1879. 
 
 27. Setaria Italica. From the Eastern Experimental Farm, West Grove, Chester 
 
 County, Pa. July 24, 1880. 
 
 28. Setaria glauca (Fox-tail). From the grounds of the Department. July 24, 1880. 
 
 29. Setaria glauca (Fox-tail). From the Eastern Experimental Farm, West. Grove, 
 
 Chester County, Pa. August 11, 1880. * 
 
 30. Setaria seiosa (Bristle Grass). From Prof. S. B. Buckley, Austin, Tex. 1878. . 
 
 31. Tripsacum dactyloidcs (Gama Grass). From D. L. Phares, Woodville, Miss. 1878. 
 
 32. Tripsacum dactyloidcs (Gama Grass). From the Eastern Experimental Farm, West 
 
 Grove, Chester County, Pa. 1880. 
 
 33. Spartina cynosuroides (Whip Grass). From A. C. Lathrop, Glen wood, Pope County, 
 
 Minnesota. 1879. 
 
 34. Spartina cynosuroides (Whip Grass). From J. I). Waldo, Quincy, 111. 1879. 
 
 35. Spartina cynosuroides (Whip Grass). From W. S. Robertson, Muscogee, Ind. T. 
 
 1879. 
 30. Andropogon Virginicus (Brown Sedge, Sedge Grass). From Prof. S. B. Buckley, 
 Austin, Tex. 1878. 
 
 37. Andropogon scoparius. From Charles Mohr, Mobile, Ala. 1879. Before bloom. 
 
 38. Andropogon scoparius (Broom Grass). From Charles Mohr, Mobile, Ala. 1878. 
 
 39. Andropogon scoparius. From W. 8. Robertson, Muscogee, Ind. T. 1879. 
 
 40. Andropogon macrourus (Broom Grass). From Charles Mohr, Mobile, Ala. 
 
 41. Andropogon furcatus (Blue joint Grass). From A. C. Lathrop, Glenwood, Pope 
 
 County, Minn. 1879. 
 
121 
 
 No of ana] 
 
 42. Andropogon furcatus (Blue joint). From D. II. Wheeler, Nebraska. 1879. 
 
 43. Andropogon furoatus (Bine joint). From W.S. Robertson, Muscogee, Iml.T. 1879. 
 44'. Andropogon furcatua (Bine joint Grass). From the Eastern Experimental Farm, 
 
 West Grove, Chester County, Pa. September 2, 1880. 
 45. Andropogon argenteua (Silver Beard Grass). From W. S. Robertson, Muscogee, 
 
 Ind. T. 1880. 
 46*. Sorghum halepenae (Johnson Grass). From Charles Mohr, Mobile, Ala. 1878. 
 47. Sorghum nutans. From W. S. Robertson, Muscogee, Ind. T, L879. 
 ■i-\ Sorghum nutans (Wood Grass). From Prof. 8. 15. Buckley, Austin Tex. 1878. 
 
 49. Phalaris intermedia, var. angusia (American Canary Grass). From South Caro- 
 
 lina, 1879. 
 
 50. Anthoxanthum odoratum (Sweet Vernal Grass). From James O, Adams, Manches- 
 
 ter, N. II. 1H70. 
 
 51. Anthoxanthum odoratum (Sweet Vernal Grass). From the Eastern Experimental 
 
 Farm, West Grove, Chester County. Pa. May 11-24, 1880. 
 
 52. Anthoxanthum odoratum (Sweet Vertfal Grass). From the grounds of the Depart- 
 
 ment. May 1, L880. 
 
 53. Eierochloa borealis (Vanilla Grass). From E. Hall, Athens, 111. 1878. 
 
 f>4. Alopecurus pratensis ( Meadow Fox-tail). From the grounds ofthe Department. 
 
 May 1, 1880. 
 55. Ari8tida purpurascen s (Purple Beard Grass). From W. S. Robertson, Muscogee, 
 
 Ind. T. 
 50. Milium effusum. From C. G. Pringle, Hazen's Notch, Vt. 1880. 
 
 57. Muhlenbergia diffusa (Dropseed Grass). From Prof. S. B. Buckley, Austin, Tex. 
 
 1878. 
 
 58. Muhlenbergia diffusa (Dropseed Grass). From the Eastern Experimental Farm, 
 
 West Grove, Chester Grove, Pa. Aug. 25, 1880. 
 HO. Muhlenbergia Mexicana. From Eastern Experiment Farm, West Grove, Chester 
 
 County, Pa, August 22, 1880. 
 60. Muhlenbergia glomerata (Satin Grass). From A. C. Lathrop, Glen wood, Pope 
 
 County, Minn. 1870. 
 
 01. Muhlenbergia sp.? (Knot Grass). From James O. Adams, Manchester, N. If. 1879. 
 
 02. Phleum pratense (Timothy, Herd's Grass). From the grounds ofthe Department. 
 
 June, 18, 1880. 
 
 03. Phleum pratense (Timothy). From the grounds of the Department. Wayside 
 
 growth. Jnno..4, 1680. 
 01. Phleum pratense (Timothy), from the grounds ofthe Department. June 26, 
 
 1882. First year's growth from seed. 
 05. Phleum pratense (Timothy). From the Eastern Experimental Farm, West Grove. 
 
 Chester County, Pa. June 20, 1880. 
 GO. Phleum pratense (Timothy, Herd's Grass). From J. W. Sanborn, Hanover, N. II. 
 
 1881. 
 07. Phleum pratense (Timothy). From W. II. Haekstatf, La Fayette, Ind. 1882. 
 68. Phleum pratense (Timothy). From J. M. Robinson, Queen Anne County, Md. 
 
 July 4, 1882. Unmanured for years. 
 00. Sporobolus Indieus (Sweet Grass). From D. L. Phares, Woodville, Miss. 1878. 
 
 70. Afjrostis vulgaris (Redtop, Herd's Grass). From the grounds of the Department 
 
 June 23, 1880. 
 
 71. Agrostis vulgaris (Redtop). From the grounds of the Department. Wayside 
 
 growth. June 18, 1880. 
 
 72. Agrostis vulgaris (Herd's Grass). From the Eastern Experimental Farm, West 
 
 Grove, Chester County, Pa. 
 
 73. Agrostis vulgaris (Redtop), From J. J. Rosa, Milford, Del. 
 
 74. Agrostis exarata (Native Redtop). From Theo. Louis, Louisville, Wis. 1878. 
 
122 
 
 No. of anal. 
 7f>. Cinna arundinacea (Reed Grass). Prom W S. Robertson, Muscogee, Inrt. T. 
 70. Holcu8 lanaiua (Velvet Grass). From the grounds of the Department. May 25, 
 L880. 
 
 77. Avena striata (Mountain Oat Grass). From Cyrus G. Pringle, Charlotte, Vt. 
 
 1879. 
 
 78. Arrhenatkerum avenaceum (Oat Grass). From the grounds of the Department. 
 
 May 25, 1880. 
 70. Arrhenathcrum avenaceum (Oat Grass). From Dr. W. C. Benbow, Greensborough, 
 N. C. Late bloom. May 12, 1880. 
 
 80. Danlhonia spicata (Wild Oat Grass). From James O. Adams, Manchester, \. 
 
 II. 1879. 
 
 81. Dan thonia compressa (Wild Oat Grass). From Cyrus G. Pringle, Charlotte Vt. 
 
 1847. 
 
 82. Cynodon Daetylon (Bermuda Grass) From Charles Mohr, Mobile, Ala. 1878. 
 
 83. Cynodon Daetylon (Bermuda Grass.) From D. L. Phares, Woodville, Miss. 1878. 
 
 84. Bouteloua oligostachya (Gramma Grass). From A. C. Lathrop, Glenwood, Pope 
 
 County, Minn., 1879. 
 
 85. Eleusine Indica (Yard Grass, Crowfoot Grass). From Prof. S. B. Buckley, Austin, 
 
 Tex. 
 
 86. Eleu8ine Indica (Yard Grass, etc.). From Dr. W. A. Cresswell, Americus, Ga. 
 
 1878. 
 
 87. Eleusine Indica (Yard Grass, etc.). From Charles Mohr, Mobile, Ala. 1878. 
 
 88. Leptocheoa mucronata (Feather Grass). From Prof. 8. B. Buckley, Austin, Tex. 
 
 1878. 
 HO. Triodia purpurea (Sand Grass). From W. S. Robertson, Muscogee, Ind. T. 1879. 
 
 90. Triodia seslerioides (Tall Redtop). From Prof. S. B. Buckley, Austin, Tex. 
 
 1878. 
 
 91. Uniola lalifolia (Fescue Grass). From Charles Mohr, Mobile, Ala. 1879. 
 
 92. Uniola latifolia (Fescue Grass). From M. S. Robertson, Muscogee, Ind. T. 1879. 
 0L J . Dactylis glomerata (Orchard Grass). From James O. Adams, Manchester, N. H. 
 
 1879. 
 04. Dactylis glomerata (Orchard Grass). From the grounds of the Department, May 
 
 13, 1880. First growth. 
 95. Dactylis glomerata (Orchard Grass). From the grounds of the Department, June 
 
 18, 1880. Later growth. 
 9G. Dactylis glomerata (Orchard Grass). From the Eastern Experimental Farm, West 
 
 Grove, Chester County, Pa. 1880. a 
 
 07. Dactylis glomerata (Orchard Grass). From W. EL Cheek, Warren County, N. C # 
 
 Early bloom. May 16, 1880. 
 98. Dactylis glomerata (Orchard Grass). From Dr. W. C. Beubow, Greensborough, 
 
 N. C. 1880. Early bloom, May 12. 
 00. Dactylic glomerata (Orchard Grass). From S. L. Goodale, Saco, Me. 1880. 
 
 100. Poapratensis (Blue Grass, June Grass). From Theo. Louis, Louisville, «Wis. 
 
 1878. 
 
 101. roa pratensis (Blue Grass, etc.) From James O. Adams, Manchester, X. If. 
 
 1870. 
 
 102. Poa }>ratensis (Blue Grass, etc.). From the grounds of the Department. May 28. 
 
 1880. Growth from best soil. 
 
 103. Poa )>ratcnsis (Blue Grass, etc.). From the grounds of the Department. May 8, 
 
 1880. Growth from poorer soil. 
 
 104. Poa prat en sis (Blue Grass, etc. ). From the grounds of the Department. May 10, 
 
 1880. Growth by wayside. 
 
 105. Poa pratensis (Blue Grass, etc.) From J. D. Waldo, Quincy, 111. May 17, 1880. 
 10(5. Poa jiratensis (Bine Grass, etc.). From W. B. Cheek, Warren County, N. C. 
 
 1880. Before bloom. 
 
12.°, 
 
 No. of anal. 
 
 107. Poa pratentis (Blue Grass, etc.)- From the Eastern Experimental Farm, West 
 
 Grove, Chester Connty, Pa. 1880. 
 
 108. Poa compressa (English Blue Grass, Wire Grass). From James O. Adams, Man 
 
 Chester, N. H. 1879. 
 
 109. Poa compressa (English Bine Grass). From the grounds of the Department. 
 
 June 17. L880. 
 
 110. Poa compre88a (English Blue Grass). From the Eastern Experimental Farm, 
 
 West Grove. Chester Con uty, Pa. June 10, 1880. 
 
 111. Poa compre8sa (English Blue Grass). From J. J. Rosa, Milford, Del. June 6, 
 
 1880. 
 
 112. Poa serotina (Fowl Meadow Grass, False Redtop). From Theo. Louis. Louisville, 
 
 Wis. 1878'. 
 
 113. Poa arachnifera. From Ellis Connty, Tex. 1882. 
 
 114. Poa ahodes. From the Eastern Experimental Farm. West Grove, Chester, County, 
 
 Pa. Juno 2, 1880. 
 
 115. Glyceria aquatica (Reed Meadow Grass). From Cyrus G. Pringle, Charlotte, Vt. 
 
 * 1879. 
 
 116. Glyceria nervata (Fowl Meadow Grass). From Cyrus G. Pringle, Charlotte, Vt. 
 
 L879. 
 
 117. Glyceria nervata (Fowl Meadow Grass). From James O. Adams, Manchester, 
 
 N. H. 1879. 
 
 118. Glyceria nervata (Fowl Meadow Grass). From the Eastern Experimental Farm, 
 
 West Grove, Chester County, Pa. June 2, 1880. 
 
 119. Festuca ovinia (Sheep's Fescue). From James O. Adams, Manchester, N. II 
 
 1879. 
 
 120. Festuca ovinia (Sheep's Fescue). From the grounds of the Department. May 21 
 
 1880. 
 
 121. Festuca clatior (Meadow Fescue). From the Eastern Experimental Farm, West 
 
 Grove, Chester County, Pa. June 2, 1880. 
 
 122. Festuca pratensis (Meadow Fescue). From James O. Adams, Manchester, N. TT 
 
 1879. 
 
 123. Festuca pratensis (Field Fescue). From the grounds of the Department. June 
 
 1, 1880. After bloom. 
 
 124. Bromus secalinus (Cheat, Chess). From James O. Adams, Manchester, N. H. 
 
 1879. 
 
 125. Bromua unioloides (Schrader's Grass). From the grounds of the Department. 
 
 1879. 
 
 126. Bromua unioloides (Schrader's Grass). From the grounds of the Department. 
 
 May 13, 1880. 
 
 127. Bromus erectus (Chess). From the grounds of the Department. May 19, 1880. 
 
 128. Uromus carinatus (California Brown-grass). From E. Hall, Athens, 111. 1878. 
 
 129. Lolium perenne (Common Darnel, Ray, or Rye Grass). From the grounds of the 
 
 Department. June 1, 1880. 
 
 130. Folium perenne (Rye Grass, etc.). From the Eastern Experimental Farm, West 
 
 Grove, Chester County, Pa. 
 
 131. Lolium Italicum (Italian Rye Grass). From the grounds of the Department. 
 
 May 26, 1882. 
 
 132. Agropyrum repem (Couch, Quitch, or Quack Grass). From James O. Adams. 
 
 Manchester, N. H. 1879. 
 
 133. Agropyrum repem (Couch Grass, etc.). From the Eastern Experimental Farm, 
 
 West Grove, Chester County, Pa. 
 
 134. Agropyrum repens (Couch Grass). From S. L. Goodale, Saco, Me. 1880. 
 
 135. Agropyrum ripens (Conch Grass, etc.). From the grounds of the Department. 
 
 June 23, 1880. Early bloom. 
 
 136. Elymus canadensis (Wild Rye Grass). From D. H. Wheeler, Nebraska. 1879. 
 
124 
 
 Tlie specimens, it will bo soon, are from all parts of the country and 
 grown under every condition of soil and environment. Those collected 
 by Dr. Peter Collier in 1878 and 1879 were mostly from the poorer 
 soils, and were intended to represent the wild grasses of the country. 
 Those collected in subsequent years by myself were chiefly cultivated 
 varieties. The development in nearly every case was full bloom or 
 shortly after, that being the period at which the grasses as a whole 
 M'cin to be cut for hay. 
 
 The analyses have been calculated for u dry substance," and also for 
 "fresh grass." where the amount of water in the fresh grass had been 
 determined ; otherwise, for the average amount of water in hay as given 
 by Wolff. This figure is probably too high for the United States, owing 
 to our drier climate; but, in the absence of exact data for the selection 
 of a more accurate one, it has been provisionally accepted. It is very 
 easy to calculate from the composition of the dry substance what effect, 
 the presence of any percentage of water would have on the absolute 
 amount of any constituent present in a given weight of grass. 
 
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 The great variation in com posit ion of grasses becomes apparent on ex. 
 ainining the one hundred and thirty-six analyses ; and by selecting the 
 Lighest and lowest determinations the following table of extremes has 
 been prepared : 
 
 Limits of composition of yrasscs. 
 
 Dry substance. 
 
 Ash 
 
 Fat 
 
 Nitrogen-free extract 
 
 Crude li ber 
 
 Albuminoids 
 
 Nitrogen — 
 
 Non-albuiniiioid nitrogen 
 
 Per cent, of nitrogen as non-albuminoid 
 Water in fresh grass 
 
 Highest 
 
 4 
 
 19. 24 
 
 5.77 
 GO. 01 
 37. 72 
 23.13 
 
 Lowest. 
 
 3. 57 
 
 1.48 
 
 34.01 
 
 17.08 
 
 2.80 
 
 3.70 
 
 1. 64 
 
 60. 70 
 
 76.50 
 
 .45 
 
 .00 
 
 .00 
 
 60. 00 
 
 The highest ash is undoubtedly owing* to the presence of adherent 
 soil, and the lowest carbo-hydrates are dependent relatively on the 
 saint 4 cause. The wide variations in fiber and albuminoids must be re- 
 garded, however, as being entirely due to physiological causes, which 
 are difficult to explain. Panicum sanguinale, for instance, which in one 
 specimen contains the extreme amount of albuminoids and a small 
 amount of fiber has in another only half as much albumen and one and 
 three quarter times as much fiber. We learn, then, that species are not 
 in themselves at all lixed in their composition, there being as large vari- 
 ations among specimens of the same as between specimens of different 
 species. Examples may be found in several portions cf the preceding 
 tables, and, for illustration, several analyses of Phleum pratense and of 
 Dactylis glome rata from widely separated localities are given in the 
 following tables : • 
 
 Analyses of Phleum pratense (Timothy) from various localities. 
 FULL BLOOM. 
 
 Locality. 
 
 Department garden, 1881 
 
 Department garden, 1880 
 
 Maryland . 
 
 New Hampshire 
 
 Indiana 
 
 3594 gk 9 
 
 7.10 
 5.0i 
 4.93 
 
 4.57 
 
 7.05 
 
 
 M 
 
 
 1) 
 
 
 © 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 a a 
 
 
 
 
 bt* 3 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 cs 
 
 
 l=H 
 
 ^ 
 
 4.47 
 
 50. 03 
 
 3. 58 
 
 58. 03 
 
 4. 22 
 
 52. 83 
 
 4.20 
 
 57. 10 
 
 2.18 
 
 52. 99 
 
 27.35 
 21.93 
 30.43 | 
 28.28 
 32.26 
 
 10.99 
 9. 90 
 7.09 
 
 1.75 
 
 1 . 58 
 1.23 
 
 .9! 
 
 .88 
 
 a a 
 a 5c 
 
 .51 
 .38 
 .15 
 
 . in 
 .00 
 
 c* a 
 
 E 5 
 
 29.1 
 24.0 
 
 1 2. 2 
 10.8 
 
 .0 
 
130 
 
 Analyses of Dachjlis glomcrata (Orchard grass) from various localities 
 FULL LL( OM. 
 
 
 
 
 ►4 
 
 
 
 
 • 
 
 ~. = 
 
 
 
 
 - 
 o 
 
 it 
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 - - 
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 T.~Z 
 
 Locality. 
 
 
 
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 o 
 
 9.91 
 9.53 
 
 H 
 
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 C* 
 
 
 7.42 
 8.07 
 
 3.56 
 
 3.24 
 
 56.03 
 53.76 
 
 23.08 
 25. 40 
 
 1.58 
 1.53 
 
 .30 
 .16 
 
 19 
 
 Distiict of Columbia 
 
 10.5 
 
 
 8.02 
 6.00 
 6.33 
 
 3. 39 
 
 3.62 
 2.66 
 
 54.80 
 57. 34 
 54. 99 
 
 26. 05 
 24. 42 
 27.51 
 
 8.74 
 8.62 
 8.56 
 
 1.40 
 
 1.38 
 ! 1.37 
 
 .36 
 .42 
 .51 
 
 25.7 
 
 
 30.4 
 
 Pennsylvania 
 
 37.2 
 
 
 8.44 
 
 3.49 
 
 54.75 
 
 24.91 
 
 8.41 
 
 1.35 
 
 .42 
 
 30.9 
 
 
 
 AVERAGE. 
 
 Five localit ies 7. 38 
 
 3.33 
 
 55.17 
 
 25.19 
 
 8.91 
 
 1.43 
 
 , 36 
 
 25.2 
 
 The average composition of American grasses, as derived from the 
 preceding analyses of grasses in bloom, and averages for different sec- 
 tions of the country, lias been calculated. The results presented in the 
 following table, with Wolff's averages for German grasses, are of inter- 
 est: 
 
 Average comjwsition of grasses. 
 
 American : 
 
 United States 
 
 North of Potomac. . . 
 
 South 
 
 Middle West 
 
 West of Mississippi 
 German (Wolff): 
 
 Fair 
 
 Good 
 
 Very good 
 
 o a> 
 
 .3 
 
 a 
 
 a 
 ft 
 
 135 
 70 
 27 
 
 7.97 
 7.64 
 
 8.80 
 8 7.12 
 
 30 8. 23 
 
 6.30 
 7.23 
 8.24 
 
 3.14 
 3.44 
 2.74 
 
 2.34 
 2.92 
 3.29 
 
 K 
 
 
 © 
 
 
 o 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 JO 
 
 g u 
 
 ca 
 
 fc£~ 
 
 
 
 rz 
 
 
 3 
 
 
 
 ft 
 
 u 
 
 53.97 
 
 25.71 
 
 55.01 
 
 23. 70 ! 
 
 52. 55 
 
 26.68 ' 
 
 54. 58 
 
 25. 39 
 
 52. 67 
 
 29.60 
 
 46.53 
 
 34.09 
 
 47.84 
 
 30. 69 
 
 48.93 
 
 25.77 
 
 9.21 
 10.21 
 9.23 
 9.95 
 6.64 
 
 10.74 
 
 11 
 
 32 
 
 13 
 
 77 
 
 1.47 
 1.63 
 1.47 
 1.60 
 1.06 
 
 1.72 
 1.81 
 2.20 
 
 
 .45 
 .32 
 .56 
 .41 
 .41 
 
 cs a 
 5 a 
 
 a " = 
 
 8&g 
 
 30.6 
 19.6 
 38.1 
 25. 6 
 38.7 
 
 The different sections furnish very different qualities of grasses, and 
 for the reason that those from the Xorth were almost entirely from cul- 
 tivated soil, while those from the other sections were inauy or most of 
 them wild species from old sod. The improvement brought about by 
 cultivation is marked, and the difference between a ton of wild Western 
 and Eastern cultivated hay is apparent. 
 
 In comparison with German grasses onr best do not equal in amount 
 of albuminoids those classed by Wolff as fair, but they are far superior 
 in having a much smaller percentage of liber and consequently a larger 
 
131 
 
 amount of digestible carbo-hydrates. In the grasses of both countries 
 the liber increases with regularity as the nitrogenous constitutents 
 
 decrease, and of the la tier the non-albuminoid portion is relatively 
 great the poorer the quality of the grass, 
 
 CHANGES IN COMPOSITION DURING GROWTH. 
 
 In addition to the single analysis previously tabulated, analyses 
 have been made of series illustrating the changes in composition of 
 several species from the appearance of the blade to the maturity of the- 
 seed. 
 
 The grasses examined comprise : 
 
 I. Agrostis vulgaris. (Redtop.) 
 
 A series from richer soil. 
 A series from poorer soil. 
 II. Phleum pratense. (Timothy.) 
 A series from richer soil. 
 A series from poorer soil. 
 
 A series of first year's growth from seed sown in garden soil. 
 A series from La Fayette, Iud. 
 A series from Hanover, N. H., the two latter from rather poor soil. 
 
 III. Dactylis glomerata. (Orchard Grass.) 
 
 A series from the first growth. 
 A series from later growth. 
 
 IV. Alopecurus pratensis. (Meadow Fox tail.) 
 
 A series from good sod. 
 V. Poa pratenses. (Bine Grass, Meadow Grass.) 
 A series from good soil. 
 A series from poorer soil. 
 A series from the wayside. 
 A series from Qnincy, 111. 
 VI. Poa compressa. (Wire Grass. 
 
 A series from poor soil. 
 VII. Bromus unioloides. (Schrader's Grass.) 
 
 A series from rich, garden soil. 
 VIII. Bromus erecius. (Broom Grass.) 
 A series from poor soil. 
 IX. Rolcus lanatus. (Satin Grass.) 
 
 A series from poor soil. 
 X. Arrhenatherum avenaceum. 
 
 A series from medium soil. 
 XI. Setaria glauca. 
 
 A series from medium soil. 
 XII. Anlhoxanthum odoratum. (Sweet Vernal Grass.) 
 A series from medium soil. 
 
 XIII. Festuca ovina. (Sheep's Fescue.) 
 
 A series from poor soil, growing in bunches. 
 
 XIV. Lolium perenne var. Italicum. (Italian Rye Grass.) 
 
 A series from low, moist soil. 
 
 A series of first year's growth from the seed in garden soil. 
 XV. Lolium perenne. (Rye Grass, Darnel.) 
 A series from medium soil. 
 
132 
 
 With a few exceptions the specimens were personally collected in the 
 grounds of the Department, and are to be so understood when nothing 
 else is said in their description. They all grew in the summer of 1880 
 except the few series illustrative of the first year's growth of certain 
 species. The character of the soils has been designated as rich or gar- 
 den soil, good soil, poorer soil, and wayside soil. The first is that of the 
 experimental garden of the Department, and is above the average rich- 
 ness of cultivated soils ; the second is that of the lawns about the De- 
 pa^tment building, the third, a light gravelly soil, occurring in a portion 
 of the grounds, and the last the gutters and paths. 
 
 The specimens were cut close to the roots, weighed and dried rapidly 
 in a current of air at 00° C. The methods of analysis were such as 
 have been described in previous reports. 
 
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138 
 
 The preceding analyses furnish the data from which is derived the 
 general conclusion that as a grass grows older its content of water 
 decreases, ash decreases, fat decreases, albumiuoids decrease, carbo- 
 hydrates increase, crude liber increases, non albuminoids decrease till 
 bloom or slightly after, when it is at its lowest, and then increases again 
 during the formation of the seed. 
 
 There are exceptions to these rules, but for the large majority of spe- 
 cies under ordinary conditions of environment they hold good. 
 
 There are almost no exceptions to the fact that the water decreases in 
 tbe maturer specimens; that is to say, the plant gradually dries up and 
 becomes less succulent. The ash is very dependent on locality and 
 surroundings, and as in the analyses which are here published it in- 
 cludes whatever soil there may be mechanically adherent to the blade 
 or stalk as collected, it sometimes shows irregularities from one period 
 to another. 
 
 The albuminoids decrease in amount with great regularity, the few 
 cases where an increase appears being due to the fact that the speci- 
 mens were probably grown under varying conditions. 
 
 The fiber sometimes decreases, as in Bromus erectus, but the change 
 in that direction is never large. 
 
 The non-albuminoid constituents, however, are often quite the reverse 
 of constant in their manner of appearauce and disappearance, and show 
 themselves to be largely or more aflected by environment than any other 
 constituent. In Agrostis vulgaris they continue to decrease after bloom, 
 and in Anthoxanthum odoratum and Festuca ovina they increase steadily 
 from early growth to maturity. The relative amount present in the 
 same species from different localities is extremely variable, as may be 
 seen in the analyses of Ph Jeum pratense, where specimens from Indiana 
 contain almost no non-albuminoid nitrogen, while those from the Dis. 
 trict of Columbia and elsewhere are well supplied. The specimens from 
 poorer soil having the smallest amount in some cases and the largest in 
 others, the fact can hardly be due directly and entirely to the lack of cul- 
 tivation, but as the averages show that the best grasses contain the least 
 non albuminoids it is plain that it is dependent on the sources of nitro- 
 gen and the supply furnished the plant. The usual changes in the non- 
 albuminoids seem to point to the possibility that they increase at the 
 time of the formation of the seed in the act of transferring to the seed, 
 as amides, the nitrogen of the plant. 
 
 THE BEST PERIOD OF GROWTH AT WHICH TO CUT FOR HAY. 
 
 Although largely a matter of opinion, it would seem from the forego. 
 ing results that the time of bloom or very little Liter is the fittest for 
 cutting grasses to be cured as hay. The amount of water has dimin- 
 ished relatively, and there is a proportionately larger amount of nutri- 
 ment in the material cut, and the weight of the latter will be at its 
 highest point economically considered. Later on, the amount of fiber 
 
139 
 
 becomes too prominent, the stalk grows bard, arid, indigestible, and the 
 
 albuminoids decrease, while the dry seeds are readily detached from 
 their glumes and lost with their store of nitrogen. 
 
 For different species, however, different times are undoubtedly suit- 
 able, and experience must be added to our chemical knowledge to 
 enable a rational decision to be arrived at. 
 
 THE COMPOSITION OF THE ASH. 
 
 The ash of many foreign varieties of grasses have been analyzed and 
 the results collected and published by Wolff. Of American growth the 
 ash of only a number of the wild glasses collected in 1878 have been 
 examined. The results are here given : 
 
 A sh a n a 1 uses — G ra sses . 
 
 Name. 
 
 I* 
 
 T. — 
 
 si 
 
 ITierocliloa bnrealis (Vanilla Grass) 7. 42 
 
 Pleusine Indira | Wire Grass) | 2. 69 
 
 FAeusine Indica (Wire Grass) 9.68 
 
 Eleusine Indica (Wire Grass) 9.84 
 
 T'ni(da latifolia (Fescue Grass). 4.92 
 
 Cynodon Dactylon (Bermuda Grass) ... C. 20 
 
 Cynodon Dactylon (Bermuda Grass) i 5.09 
 
 Sporobolus Indicus (Smut Grass) I 6.02 
 
 Andropogon Yirginicus (Broom Grass) .. 2.97 
 
 Andropogon scoparius 1.33 
 
 Port pratetuii (Kentucky Blue Grass) . . 9. 88 
 
 Poa serotina (Fowl Meadow Grass) . . . 10. 80 
 
 Dactyloctcnium Egypt. (Egyptian Grass). 8 37 
 
 Panicum sanguinale (Crab Grass) 6. 40 
 
 Panicum maximum (TrueGuinea Grass) 4. 37 
 
 Panicum obttisum 5.18 
 
 Panicum rirgatum (Tall Panic Glass) 5. ."0 
 
 Panicum sp.\' 4.37 
 
 Panicum Texanum (Texas Millet 8. 48 
 
 J'anicum Crus-galli (Barnyard Grass) .. 4.27 
 
 Panicum filiform* (Slender Crab Grass) 6. 37 
 
 Sorghum kaiepente (Johnson Grass) 10. 44 
 
 Chrysopogon nutans (Indian Grass) 2. 35 
 
 Muhlcnbergia diffusa (Drop Seed) 6.05 
 
 BromxM unioloidcs (Schroder's Grass) ... 8. 79 
 
 Jiromus carinatius (Broom Grass) 9.2!) 
 
 Agrostis exarata (Browntop) 8.01 
 
 Paspalumbt-re (Water Grass) 6.18 
 
 Sctaria getosa ( Bristly Fox-tail ) ' 3. 24 
 
 Leptochloa mucronata (Feather Grass).. 6.46 
 
 Tripxacum dacth/loides (Gama Grass)... 2.52 
 
 Tricupis sederioides (Tall Kedtop) 1. 58 
 
 55 
 4.24 
 5.79 
 8.55 
 2. 02 
 9.37 
 
 11.31 
 4.60 
 2.80 
 
 trace 
 4.76 
 3.35 
 4.42 
 
 4. 02 
 2.51 
 6.71 
 3.56 
 5.29 
 4.63 
 3.69 
 4.84 
 2. 96 
 
 2. 13 
 
 3. 39 
 5.61 
 3.94 
 1.93 
 
 5. 04 
 3.51 
 3.31 
 3.69 
 4.04 
 
 42. 73 
 
 47. 5(5 
 24 61 
 
 16. 25 
 66. 87 
 30. 29 
 ,30. 27 
 27.36 
 58. 33 
 64. 62 
 30. 25 
 37. 10 
 34. 17 
 30.93 
 1(3.51 
 48.60 
 51.17 
 45.10 
 ■34.31 
 42. 18 
 40. 36 
 |22.21 
 61.56 
 39. 98 
 
 4.84 
 38. 33 
 34. 63 
 44. 65 
 42. 59 
 55. 92 
 37.84 
 37. 52 
 
 E a 
 
 o- 
 
 3S 
 
 4.49 
 
 10. 09 
 6.71 
 9.61 
 4.71 
 6.05 
 9.46 
 
 11.03 
 6.37 
 
 15. 65 
 6.30 
 3.80 
 6.76 
 6.04 
 7.77 
 4.20 
 4. 93 
 4.06 
 6.55 
 
 11.48 
 
 12. 17 
 4.58 
 6.11 
 8.21 
 
 16.84 
 3.30 
 3.60 
 1.73 
 3.81 
 2. 89 
 
 13.08 
 
 3.97 
 10. 27 
 13. 05 
 11.10 
 
 7. 15 
 13. 44 ' 5. 00 22. 99 
 
 2.54 31.51 
 
 4.10 10.27 
 
 7.38 24.79 
 
 5.57 30.98 
 
 . 02 5. 52 
 
 2.64 
 6.76 
 2.12 
 4.81 
 6.70 
 20. 67 
 
 4. 40 
 10. 18 
 
 5.91 
 7.87 
 7.39 
 7. 39 
 7.23 
 4.69 
 
 12. 87 
 2. 92 
 
 11.95 
 4.43 
 6. 19 
 5.61 
 9 36 
 2.31 
 
 5. 94 
 1.64 
 
 .89 
 33. 53 
 
 1.83 13.93 
 .58 
 
 3.23 33.81 
 
 2.92 31.71 
 
 6.91 21.20 
 
 7.98 33.56 
 
 14. 16 J35. 93 
 
 3. 13 21. 65 
 
 3.63 18.76 
 
 7.98 
 4.57 
 5.52 
 5.18 
 6.73 
 1.36 
 4.39 
 
 22. 53 
 27. 95 
 13.26 
 12.98 
 
 35. 72 
 16.84 
 
 17.32 
 
 4.64 37.20 
 
 2. 19 31.61 
 
 3.84 38.41 
 
 5 26 25. 44 
 
 1.56 39.33 
 
 2. 60 20. 21 
 
 1.07 29.06 
 
 .53 38.49 
 
 4 54 
 9. 52 
 7.39 
 4 55 
 5.19 
 6.66 
 9.61 
 
 12. 16 
 7.01 
 
 15.70 
 6.95 
 2.79 
 7.50 
 6.67 
 8.57 
 4.62 
 3.36 
 1.54 
 4.54 
 
 12. 00 
 
 13.41 
 3.68 
 6.74 
 6.78 
 
 16.38 
 
 3.'97~ 
 
 1.81 
 6.30 
 8.13 
 
 3 
 
 c 
 
 ■Jl 
 
 2.17 
 
 .25 
 1 26 
 
 3.55 
 
 42 
 
 .83 
 
 1.22 
 
 1.74 
 
 1.58 
 
 .37 
 
 '.'81 
 
 1.33 
 1.27 
 2.98 
 
 1.12 
 
 2.47 
 
 .80 
 
 4.77 
 
 CONCLUSION. 
 
 The work which has been collected in the previous pages extended 
 over several years, from 1878 to 1883. It was inaugurated by Dr. Peter 
 Collier, as chemist to this Department, and the laboratory work for the 
 first year was in the hands of Mr. Henry B. Parsons, Mr. Charles Wel- 
 lington, and myself. The remainder of the work has been under my 
 own supervision, and has been almost entirely carried out by Mr. Miles 
 Fuller and myself. It is hoped that the collection and re-arrangement 
 of the results will give them an increased value. 
 
GLOSSARY OF TERMS USED IN DESCRIBING GRASSES. 
 
 Abrupt. Terminating suddenly. 
 
 Acuminate. Extended into a, tapering point. 
 
 Acute. Sharp-pointed. 
 
 Alternate. Situated regularly one above the other on opposite sides. 
 
 Annual. Living but one season. 
 
 Anther. The organ containing the pollen or flower- dust. 
 
 Apex. The top or extreme end of any part. 
 
 Appressed. Pressed together, not spreading. 
 
 Arietate. Having an awn or beard. 
 
 Articulated. Connected by a joint or joints. 
 
 Ascending. Rising obliquely from the ground. 
 
 Awl-shaped. Gradually narrowed to a fine point like an awl. 
 
 Awn. A bristle-like organ proceeding from the glumes. 
 
 Axis. The central stem of a panicle, spike, or spikelet on which the flowers are dis- 
 posed . 
 
 Beard. A long slender hair or awn. 
 
 Biennial. Living through two seasons. 
 
 Bifid. Divided into two portions at the apex. 
 
 Bisexual. Having both stamens and pistils. 
 
 Blade. The expanded portion of a leaf. 
 
 Boat-shaped. Folded together in the form of a boat; convex outwardly and concave 
 on the inside. 
 
 Branch. A division of the stem or panicle. 
 
 Branchlet. A secondary division of the branch. 
 
 Brisths. Short, stiff hairs. 
 
 Bulbous. Thickened like a bulb. 
 
 Ccespitose. Growing in bunches or tufts. 
 
 Capillary. Hair-like, very slender. 
 
 Carinate. Keeled, having a prominent ridge in the center. 
 
 Cartilaginotis. Firm and tough like cartilage. 
 
 Catiline. Belonging to the culm or stem. 
 
 Chaff. The dried glumes and palets of grasses. 
 
 Chartaceous. The texture resembling paper or parchment in thickness. 
 
 Ciliate. Having the margin or nerves fringed with hairs. 
 
 Compressed. Flattened laterally. 
 
 Contorted. Twisted. 
 
 Convolute. Rolled together inward from the margins. 
 
 Coriaceous. Of a leathery consistence. 
 
 Cornaceous. Of a horn-like consistence. 
 
 Culm. The stalk or stem of grasses. 
 
 Cuspidate. Ending in a sharp, stiff point. 
 Decumbent. Reclining on the ground, but rising at the top. 
 Dichotomous. Branching in twos, forking by pairs. 
 Digitate, Dividing from a common point. 
 
 141 
 
142 
 
 Dioecious. Having the stamens and pistils on separate plants, the stainiuato flow 
 on one and pistillate flowers on another. 
 
 Diverging. Widely spreading. 
 
 Dorsal. Belonging to or growing from the hack. 
 
 Emarginate. Having a notch at the end. 
 
 Entire. Without notches or divisions. 
 
 Equal. Alike in length. 
 
 Exsjerted. Protruded, extended beyond, standing out. 
 
 Fertile Having perfect pistils; producing fruit. 
 
 Fibrous. Having thread-like divisions. 
 
 Filament. The stalk or support of the anther. 
 
 Filiform. Thread-like. 
 
 Flexuous. Bending freely. 
 
 Floret. The (lowers of grasses are sometimes called florets. 
 
 Foliaceous. Resembling a leaf. 
 
 Fusiform. Spindle-shaped, largest in the middle and tapering to both ends. 
 
 Geniculate. Bent abruptly, like a knee. 
 
 Genus. A group of species having a general agreement in structure. 
 
 Glabrous. Smooth, without hairs or roughness. 
 
 Glaucous. Having a grayish green color. 
 
 Glomerate. Clustered in small roundish heads. 
 
 Glumes. The chaff-like leaves forming a part of the flowers. 
 
 Herbaceous. Herb-like, not woody. 
 
 Hirsute. Pubescent, with rather stiff and coarse hairs. 
 
 Hyaline. Thin and transparent. 
 
 Imbricate. Closely overlapping each other, as frequently the flowers of a spikelet. 
 
 Indigenous. Growing naturally ; not brought from some other country. 
 
 Inferior. Lower in position. 
 
 Inserted. Growing out of, or upon another. 
 
 Internode. The space between two nodes or joints. 
 
 Involute. Rolled together inwards. 
 
 Joints. Thickenings in the stem where the leaves originate ; separable parts of an 
 axis ; point of issue of the branches of a panicle. 
 
 Keel. Au elevated longitudinal ridge, in the middle of a leaf, glume, or palet ; re- 
 sembling the keel of a boat. 
 
 Lamina. The free or expanded portion of a leaf, as distinguished from the petiole or 
 the shea'h; the blade of a leaf. 
 
 Lanceolate. Tapering gradually to the apex, like a lancet. 
 
 Lateral. At or from the side. 
 
 Ligule. A tongue-like appendage at the upper part of the sheath of a leaf. 
 
 Line. The twelfth part of au inch. 
 
 Linear. Long and narrow, with parellel sides. 
 
 Lobe. Some division of a glume. 
 
 Male f outer. A flower that has stamens, but without pistil. 
 
 Membranaceous. Thin like a membrane, generally somewhat translucent. 
 
 Alonaciou*. With stamens and pistils in different flowers on the same plant. 
 
 Midrib. The central and principal nerve of a leaf or glume. 
 
 Mucronate. Abruptly tipped with a short awn or bristle. 
 
 Nervis. The ribs or veins of a leaf, or leaf-like organ. 
 
 Neutral. Having neither stamens nor pistils. 
 
 Nodes. Knots or thickened portions in the culms. 
 Oblong. Longer than wide, with nearly parellel sides. 
 Obovale. Egg-shaped, with the wider end uppermost. 
 Obtuse. Blunt or rounded at the apex. 
 Oval. Broadly elliptical, approaching a rounded form. 
 
 
14;) 
 
 Ovary. That part of the pistil which contains the seed. 
 
 Ovate. Egg-shaped. 
 
 Palet or palea. The inner scale or chaff of the proper flower, placed nearly opposite 
 
 and a little higher on the axis than the flowering glume. 
 Panicle. A branched and subdivided stem bearing the flowers. 
 Pedicel. A small branchlel support inn ;l spikeiet. 
 Peduncle. The main stem or stalk of a flower-spike. 
 Perennial, Living more than two years, or indefinitely. 
 Perfect. Having both stamens and pistils. 
 Petiole. The stem of a leaf. 
 
 Pistil. The central or female organ of a fertile flower. 
 Pistillate. Having only pistils without stamens. 
 Plumose. Feather-like. 
 
 Pollen. The powder contained in the anthers. 
 Pubescent. Clothed with short and soft hairs. 
 Radical leaves. Those growing from the base of the culm. 
 Revolute. Ro ling backwards or outwards. 
 Ehachis. The axis or stem on which the tlowers of a spikeiet are arranged ; also the 
 
 common axis of a close spike or of a panicle. 
 lihi;oma or Hoot-stock. A horizontal underground stem. 
 Bibs. Prominent nerves of the leaves or glumes. 
 Rugose. Wrinkled or furrowed. 
 
 Scabrous. Rough, with small point" or short stiff hairs. 
 Scarious. Dry and thin, and generally transparent. 
 Sericeous. Covered with soft, silky hairs. 
 
 Serrate. Having teeth on the margin, pointed towards the apex. 
 Serrulate. Finely-toothed. 
 Sessile. Without a foot-stalk or pedicel. 
 Setaceous. Like a bristle. 
 
 Sheath. That part of the leaf which embraces the culm or stalk. 
 Sj)ike. A collection of sessile or nearly sessile tlowers on a close, narrow axis. 
 Spikeiet. A ilower or cluster of ilowers having one pair of outer glumes. 
 Stamen. The male organs of a ilower, including the anther and filament. 
 Staminate. Having only stamens. 
 Sterile. Imperfect tlowers not producing seed. 
 Strict. Erect and close. 
 
 Stoloniferous. Sending off offshoots or runners from the base. 
 Strigose. Having spreading, bristly hairs. 
 Style. That portion of the pistil bearing stigmas or a stigmatie surface ; in grasses 
 
 often branching. 
 Subulate. Stiff and linear, shaped like an awl. 
 Succulent. Fleshy and juicy. 
 Truncate. Abruptly cut off at the apex. 
 
 Unequal. Xot of equal length. 
 
 Vcrticillute. Arranged in a whorl or whorls. 
 
 Villous. Velvety, clothed thickly with long, soft hairs. 
 
 Whorl. A number of leaves or branches arranged around a stem on the same plane. 
 
 Woolly. Clothed with long and matted hairs. 
 
INDEX OF PLATES. 
 
 Plato. 
 
 Agropyrum glaucum . m c7 
 
 repeus 
 
 Agrost is 48 
 
 exarata 49 
 
 oxarata var. PaeUica IOC 
 
 vulgaris 48 
 
 Alfalfa 96 
 
 Aliilaria - 101 
 
 Alopecums pratensis 35 
 
 Audropogou furcat us 29 
 
 uiacrourus 28 
 
 seoparius 27 
 
 Virginicus 2(5 
 
 Antlioxanthum odoratuui 34 
 
 Aristida purpurea 36 
 
 Arrheuatlieruni avcuaceum 58 
 
 Avena falna • --- • 57 
 
 Barnyard grass 14 
 
 Beckiuanuia erneaeformis 8 
 
 Bei muda grass 59 
 
 Blue grass, Englisb 74 
 
 Kentucky 75 
 
 mountain 78 
 
 Texas 7:3 
 
 Bluejoint 20,51 
 
 Blue stein, Colorado 87 
 
 Bouteloua oligostachya 02 
 
 raceraosa 03 
 
 Bromus seealinus 84 
 
 unioloides 85 
 
 Broom sedge 27 
 
 Bnchloe dactvloides 06 
 
 Bulla! o grass 06 
 
 Bunch grass 83 
 
 Cactus 99 
 
 Calamagrostis Canadensis 51 
 
 longitolia 53 
 
 sylvatica 52 
 
 Canary grass, American 33 
 
 Cheat ...... B4 
 
 Chess ^4 
 
 Chlorisalba 108 
 
 Chrysopogon nutans 30 
 
 Cinua arundinacea 50 
 
 Clover, Alsike 93 
 
 buffalo 94 
 
 bur 97 
 
 3594 Gil 10 M5 
 
14G 
 
 Plate. 
 
 Clover, J;i pan 98 
 
 Mexican 102 
 
 Cord grass GO 
 
 Couch grass 8S 
 
 Crab grass 15 
 
 Crow foot 05 
 
 Cut grass 24 
 
 Uynodon Dactylon 59 
 
 Dactylis glomerata 72 
 
 Deschampsia cacspitosa T 107 
 
 Diplachoe dabia 109 
 
 Disticlilis maritima 71 
 
 Eleusine Aegyptiaca 65 
 
 Iudica 64 
 
 Elymus Canadensis B9 
 
 condensatas 90 
 
 Virginicus 91 
 
 Eragrostis major 70 
 
 Erodiuni cicutarium 101 
 
 Esparset to 95 
 
 Euchlaena luxuriaus 22 
 
 Eurotia lanata 100 
 
 Fescue, sheep's 82 
 
 tall meadow 81 
 
 Festuca elatior 81 
 
 oviua 82 
 
 scabrella 83 
 
 Fowl meadow grass 76 
 
 Foxtail, meadow 35 
 
 Gama grass 21 
 
 General illustrations of grasses : 
 
 Dissections of iiowers 4 
 
 Inilorescence 3 
 
 Roots and rhizomes 1 
 
 Sheaths, ligules, and blades 2 
 
 Glyceria arundinaeea 79 
 
 Canadensis 114 
 
 nervata 80 
 
 Grama grass 62 
 
 black 62 
 
 tall 63 
 
 Guinea grass 9 
 
 Herd's grass 45 
 
 Hilaria Jamesii 25 
 
 Holcus lanatus - 54 
 
 Hungarian grass 19 
 
 Johnson grass 31 
 
 June grass 75 
 
 Kceleria cristata 69 
 
 Leersia Virgin ica 24 
 
 Loliuni perenne 86 
 
 Lespedeza striata 98 
 
 Lucerne - 96 
 
 Medicago denticulata 97 
 
 sativa 93 
 
147 
 
 Plate. 
 
 Melica bulbosa HI 
 
 diffusa HO 
 
 imperfecta 112 
 
 Millet grass, Indian 13 
 
 Mil li urn e tins 1 1 in 41 
 
 Muhlenberg ia comata 104 
 
 diffusa 41 
 
 glomerata 42 
 
 Mexieana 43 
 
 sylvatica 44 
 
 Nimble Will 41 
 
 Oat grass, tall meadow 58 
 
 wild 30 
 
 Onobrychis safciva 95 
 
 Opuntia Engelmanni 99 
 
 Orchard grass 72 
 
 Oryzopsis cuspidata 39 
 
 Pauieum agrostoides 17 
 
 anceps - 18 
 
 barbiuode 12 
 
 Crns-galli 14 
 
 gibbnni 103 
 
 ma xi in nin 9 
 
 miliaceum 13 
 
 proliferum 11 
 
 sanguiualo 15 
 
 Texaiuun 10 
 
 virgatuni 1G 
 
 Paspalum platycaule 6 
 
 Para grass 12 
 
 Phalaris arandinacea 32 
 
 intermedia 32 
 
 Pbleum pratense '. 45 
 
 Pbragniites communis 68 
 
 Pigeon grass 20 
 
 Pin grass 101 
 
 Poa andina 78 
 
 aracbuifera 73 
 
 compressa 74 
 
 pratensis ....". 75 
 
 serotina 70 
 
 ten ni folia „ 77 
 
 Prickly pear 99 
 
 Quack grass 88 
 
 Reed grass 08 
 
 Redtop 48 
 
 western 49 
 
 Relief grass, Stewart's 33 
 
 Ricbardsonia scabra 102 
 
 Rye grass, perinnial 86 
 
 Sainfoin 95 
 
 Salt grass 71 
 
 Setaria glauca 20 
 
 Italica . . , 19 
 
 Smut grass 47 
 
148 
 
 Plata 
 
 Sorghum halepense 31 
 
 Spartina cynosuroides GO 
 
 jancea (il 
 
 Sporobolns airoides L05 
 
 cryptandrua 46 
 
 Indicus 47 
 
 Stix>it Bpartea 38 
 
 viridnla 37 
 
 Sweet vernal grass 34 
 
 Switch grass 1G 
 
 Teosinte 22 
 
 Timothy 45 
 
 Trii'olinin hybridnm 92 
 
 incarnatam 94 
 
 stolon item in 94 
 
 Trisetnm palastre 55 
 
 sabspicatam 5G 
 
 Triodia seslerioides G7 
 
 Tripsaenni dactyloides 21 
 
 Uniola latifolia 113 
 
 Velvet grass 54 
 
 White grass , 24 
 
 Wild oats 57 
 
 Wild rice 23 
 
 Wild rye 89,91 
 
 Winter fat 100 
 
 Wood grass 30 
 
 Zizania aquatica 23 
 
Plate 1 
 
 Roots and rhizomes of grasses. 
 
Plate 2. 
 
 Sheaths, ligules. and blades of grasses. 
 
Plate 3. 
 
 
 1 # 
 
 %i 
 
 i 
 
 m.-%\ -f j% 
 
 
 
 11 
 
 te?^ 
 
 flf 
 
 m. 
 
 %m 
 
 
 
 
 
 -/ 
 
 
 
 
 ^ 
 
 // # 
 
 IP 
 
 r 
 
 
 Inflorescence of grasses. 
 
 //ff 
 
Plate 4. 
 
 Dissections of grass flowers. 
 
Plate 5. 
 
 Paspalum dilatatoi. 
 
Plate 6. 
 
 W.R.,ScHCLL.deL 
 
 Paspalum platycaule. 
 
Plate 7. 
 
 -mt<j$c?wii.aeis* 
 
 Paspalum distichoi. 
 
Plate 8. 
 
 TmSchoU.ael,. 
 
 Beckmannia erucjeformis. 
 
- : ' a//, /t 
 
 Plate 9. 
 
 Panicum maximum, Guinea grass. 
 
Plate 10. 
 
 tex Id 
 
 
 
 
 § X 
 
 
 Paxicuji Texaxtm, Texas -btee-gwiss. 
 
Plate 11 
 
 \ mi I fi 
 
 i 1 
 
 
 Panicum proliferoi. 
 
Plate 12. 
 
 . 
 
 I 
 
 ! / 
 j 
 
 1 
 
 Panicum barbixode, Para grass. 
 
Plate 13. 
 
 ™ __ ^ -v - 
 
 Panicum miliaceum, Indian millet grass. 
 
ifti 
 
 "\\\m. 
 
 j\ % ^- 
 
 
 Panicum Crus-galli, Barn-yard grass. 
 
Plate 15. 
 
 urcm 
 
 Panicum sanguis ale, Crab grass. 
 
Plate 16. 
 
 Paotcum virgatum, Switch grass. 
 
Plate 17. 
 
 Pakicum agrostoides. 
 
Plate 18. 
 
 Panicum axceps. 
 
Plate 19. 
 
 Set aria Italic a, Hungarian grass. 
 
 'JiUm (/el 
 
Plate 20. 
 
 MkBK-DEL. 
 
 Set aria glauca, Pigeon grass. 
 
Plate 21 
 
 jEty. m 
 
 Trips acum dactyloides. Gama grass. 
 
Euchl^xa luxuriaxs, Teosinte. 
 
Zizaxia aquatica, Wild rice. 
 
Plate 24. 
 
 JtiSchoCia* t- 
 
 Leersia Virgixica. White grass. Cut grass. 
 
Plate 25. 
 
 TTTT,*m\ .Ta^uf.^tt. 
 

Plate 26. 
 
 AXDROPOGON VlKGINICUS. 
 
Plate 27. 
 
 Andropogon scopaiuus, Broom sedge. 
 
Plate 28. 
 
 tofc&X.DEl.. 
 
 { ^ W&MOVJS. 
 
 Andropogon macrourus. 
 
Plate 29. 
 
 WEOC At\,. 
 
 Andropogon FDECATUB, Bluejoint. 
 
Plate 30. 
 
 Wu w. 
 
 Chrysopogok nutans. Wild oat grass. W< od giass. 
 
Plate 31 
 
 Sorghum halepense, Johnson grass. 
 
Plate 32. 
 
 : BE ::•■ ivnn : 
 
 Phalaris aruxdixacea. 
 
Plate 33. 
 
 Phalaris intermedia, Stewart" s relief grass, American Cb 
 
 H.H.NICHOLS, Sd 
 
 anary grass. 
 
Plate 34. 
 
 ^X^XAfcU 
 
 ANTHOXANTHUM ODORatum, Sweet vernal grass. 
 

 
Plate 35. 
 
 *.Y\.tt\cHOLS-tna. 
 
 ttKK/^S-U 
 
 Alopecurus pratensis. Meadow foxtail. 
 
Plate 36. 
 
 ^J\ 
 
 Aristida PURPUREA, Awned I anch grass. 
 
 WAR X.DEL. 
 

Plate 37. 
 
 Stipa viridula. 
 
Plate 38. 
 
 Stipa spartea. 
 

Plate 39. 
 
 Oryzopsis cuspidata. Indian millet grass. 
 
Plate 40. 
 
 Milium effusum. 
 
Plate 41 
 
 \WXTV It. 
 
 Muhlexbergia diffusa, Nimble Will. 
 
Plate 42. 
 
 'KRX.OSA. 
 
 MUHLENBERGIA GLOMERATA. 
 
 W.ri.WGWvJ\-S. 
 

Plate 43. 
 
 MUHLEXBERGIA MeXICANA. 
 
 arl U 
 
Plate 44. 
 
 F.tf.N 9c. 
 
 MARX. DEL 
 
 MUHLEXBEBGIA SYLVATICA. 
 
 • 
 
Plate 45. 
 
 1 A/Jyl 
 
 Phleum pratexse. Timothv. 
 
 urn* 
 
Plate 46. 
 
 $ 
 
 Sporobolus cryptandrus. 
 

Plate 47. 
 
 WCX kv 
 
 Sporobolus Indicus, Smut grass. 
 
Plate 43. 
 
 MARX DE 
 
 Agrostis vulgaris, Red top. 
 
Plate 49. 
 
 AGEOSTIS exarata. Western red top. 
 
Plate 50. 
 
 ClNNA ARUNDINACEA. 
 
Plate 51 
 
 t\\£Y\Q\-S-EUG. 
 
 vM\FJn-OE\_. 
 
 Calamagrostis CDeyeuxia) Canadensis, Blue joint. 
 
Plate 52. 
 
 Calamagkostis (Deyeuxia) sylvatica. 
 
Plate 53. 
 
 .1 
 
 Calamagrostis longifolia. 
 

Plate 54. 
 
 lj 
 
 ft 
 
 
 I 
 
 1ft \ 
 
 i 
 
 
 |l ! 
 
 1 | 
 i I' 
 
 
 '.HMcholsAc 
 
 Marx Ud. 
 
 Holcus lanatus. Velvet grass. 
 
Plate 55. 
 
 TRI8ETUM PALUSTRE. 
 
Plate 56. 
 
 teALNic 
 
 Ltis* 
 
 Trisetum subspicatum. 
 
Plate 57. 
 
 A YEN A fatua, Wild oats. 
 
Plate 58. 
 
 Arrhexatheroi ayenaceol Tall meadow oat grass. 
 
Plate 59. 
 
 -r/- st 
 
 Cyxodon Dactylox, Bermuda grass. 
 
Plate 60. 
 
 Spartixa cynosuroides. Cord grass. 
 
Plate 61. 
 
 OJ-ifiDGMANN.SC. 
 
 Sparti^a juncea. 
 
Plate 62. 
 
 Bouteloua oligostachya, Gramma grass. Black gramma. 
 
Plate 63. 
 
 iA/.R.Scholl. deL 
 
 Bouteloua RACEMOSA, Tall gramma grass. 
 
Plate 64 
 
 Wm£i ■ ' fv 
 
 Eleusine Indica. 
 
ETiEUSTXF. ^.fiVPTTAPi rVrm-frvr>+ 
 
Plate 66. 
 
 Bvchloe dactyloides, Buffalo grass. 
 
Plate 67. 
 
 Triodia seslerioides. 
 
/ II 
 
 /■' 
 
 ll 
 
 Plate 68. 
 
 tf -' /"Wv- : ' V-"-' "' ' 
 
 // 
 
 
 ' ' A \\ 
 
 3 
 
 y^»i^f-'- :/ '^A>? 
 
 
 mmm 
 
 
 \ m 
 
 •> 
 
 
 
 
 W%m. 
 
 2 > 
 
 V\ ^-^ 
 
 
 ^ 
 
 v/i/ar/ j a i. 
 
 Phragmites communis, Reed grass. 
 
Plate 69. 
 
 1V5SLS. 
 
 TaJNUSPJdtV-. 
 
 KCELERIA CRISTATA. 
 
_ 70. 
 
 Eragrostis major. 
 
 Sa, 
 
 ^ 4d 
 
Plate 71 
 
 Distichlis maritima. Salt grass. 
 
Plate 72. 
 
 %RX.CE.L 
 
 Dactylis glouerata. Orchard grass. 
 
Plate 73. 
 
 Poa arachxifera. Texas blue grass. 
 
Plate 74. 
 
 fcMOMOLY.. 
 
 Poa coajpressa. English blue grass. 
 
Plate 75. 
 
 
 "few*, jtv 
 
 Poa pratensis, Kentucky blue grass, June grass. 
 
Plate 76. 
 
 toust ia 
 
 Poa serotina, Fowl rueadow grass. 
 
Plate 77. 
 
 \Kr?;x^i., 
 
 POA TENUIFOLJA. 
 
Plate 78. 
 
 Poa ANDINA, Mountain blue grass. 
 
Plate 79. 
 
 w 
 
 m 
 
 Glyceria aruxdixacea . 
 
Plate 80. 
 
 IARX.DEL 
 
 Glyceria nervata. 
 
Plate 81 
 
 Festuca elatior, Tall meadow fescue. 
 
 NICHOLS 
 
Plate 82. 
 
 U;ti.U\CUOLS £N 
 
 Festuca otixa, Sheep's fescue. 
 
Plate 83. 
 
 Festuca scabrella, Rough-leaved fescue. 
 
Plate 84. 
 
 YAKRX.tt^A-. 
 
 Bromus secalinus, Chess. 
 
Plate 85. 
 
 Bromus unioloides (half size). 
 
Plate 86. 
 
 Lolium perenne. Perennial rve grass. 
 
Plate 87. 
 
 WZcholl.del 
 
 Agropyroi glaucum, Colorado blue stern. 
 
Plate 88. 
 
 Agropyrum repexs, Quack grass, Couch grass. 
 

Plate 89. 
 
 Elymus Canadensis, Wild rve. 
 
Plate 90. 
 
 Elymus condensatus. 
 
PLATE 91 
 
 Elymus Virginicus, Wild rye. 
 
Plate 92. 
 
 Trifolium hybridoi. Alsike clover. 
 
Plate 93. 
 
 CblUinadcl 
 
 Trifolium INCARNATUM. 
 
Plate 94. 
 
 Trifolium stoloniferum, Buffalo clover, 
 
Plate 95. 
 
 v&cru/nq tax- 
 
 Onobrychis sativa, Sainfoin, Esparsette. 
 
Plate 96. 
 
 mt *- u. 
 
 Medicago satiya, Alfalfa, Lucerne. 
 

Plate 97. 
 
 W.SHQLLdel 
 
 Medic ago denticulata, Bur clover 
 
Plate 98. 
 
 Lespedeza striata, Japan clover. 
 
Plate 99. 
 
 -3» 
 
 OpOsTIa Engelmanni, Prickly pear, Cactus. 
 
F)Comnyy 
 
 Eurotia lanata, Winter fat. 
 

Plate 101. 
 
 V> Wf^ 
 
 
 I M, 
 
 uv 
 
 w^i-i ■ 
 
 3b 
 
 ^ 
 
 
 .mm 
 
 7 A 
 
 Erodium cicdtarium, Pin grass, Alfilaria. 
 

Plate 102. 
 
 m£fc U- 
 
 M.v.ircKrus sc. 
 
 Richardsonia scabra, Mexican clover, 
 

Plate 103. 
 
 Paxicum gibbum. 
 
Plate 104. 
 
 viVJb. 
 
 MtJHLENBERGIA COMATA. 
 
Plate 105. 
 
 Sporobolus AIROIDES. 
 
Plate 106. 
 
 
 H.H.N, 
 
 Agrostis exarata var. Pacifica. 
 
Plate 107. 
 
 <fr*M 
 
 Deschampsia c^espitosa, Hair grass. 
 

Plate 108. 
 
 TOorxAi. 
 Chloris alba. 
 
Plate 109. 
 
 DlPLACHNE DUBIA. 
 

Plate 110. 
 
 
 Melica diffusa. 
 
Plate 111. 
 
 i\.H.UVCHOLS. 
 
 Melica bulbosa. 
 
 t:\M\J3RJMEL. 
 
Plate 1 12. 
 
 Melica imperfecta. 
 
Plate 11 3. 
 
 UXIOLA LATIFOLIA. 
 
Plate 114. 
 
 Y 
 
 Glyceria Canadensis. 
 

Due 
 
 Date Due I 
 
 Returned Due Returned tf^J^^jMs, 
 
 A-Vvrjil" 
 
 § J0H0 9 W« 
 
 jm ftl^ 
 
 
 ?m. 
 
 
 i'.- _^» ! 
 
 
 ft 
 
 r JDlD5W2 
 
 :#KS 
 
 V 
 
 jy> w£^^^h 
 
 M 
 H 
 
 
 a 5 
 
 J, b 
 
 u5» 
 
 -^ 
 
 
 W- 
 

 tu 
 
 3 1262 04839 9066 
 
 ;■: 
 
 -;v 
 
 
 £&*mlL 
 

 ilhiriiriilllilfmH^fl 
 
 W1 
 
 of 
 
 «u? 
 
 nil 
 
 111 
 
 
 1 
 
 Ih2J 
 
 I^Hta 
 
 II