ICO SOUTH INDIAN GRASSES 



acute, 7- to 9-nerved. The third glume is equal to and broader than 

 the second, always paleate and with three stamens and 9-nerved ; 

 pale a is hyaline, oblong, obtuse or subacute, margins folded. The 

 fourth glume is white, coriaceous, smooth and shining, oblong, 

 acute, shortly and broadly stipitate, with the margins folded 

 inwards exposing only a third of the palea ; palea is similar to the 

 glume in texture and marking. Anthers are deep orange in colour. 

 Lodicules are distinct though small. Stigmas are deep purple when 

 mature, and pale when young. 



This grass flourishes in moist situations such as the bunds of 

 paddy fields, tank beds and edges of marshes and is an excellent 

 binder of the soil. When once established it is very difficult to get 

 rid of it, on account of its rhizomes. Owing to the resemblance of 

 the rhizomes to ginger, some call this grass Ginger-rooted grass. 

 Cattle are fond of this grass. 



Distribution. — Throughout India, but not so common on the 

 West and not recorded from Bombay. It is said to occur in South 

 Europe, Australia, North Africa and Brazil. 



