274 



Fig. 268. BRIZA MEDIA L. Sp. PI. 70. 1753. QUAKING-GRASS.— A slen- 



der, erect perennial 1..D-6 dm. d 



high, with rather short, flat leaf-blades 



and capillary, spreading panicles 4-12 cm. (li'-5') long. Sheaths shorter than 

 the internodes; ligule 1 mm. (h") long or less; leaf-blades 2-8 cm. (l'-3') long; 

 2-0 mm. (l"-2i") wide. Spikelets (a) 4-5 mm. (2"-2i") long, 5 to 12 flowered, 

 orbicular to deltoid-ovate; empty glumes about 2 mm. (1") long; flowering 

 glumes (b) 2-3 mm. (1"-1^") long, scarious margined. The palea is shown by 

 (..—Sparingly naturalized in fields and waste grounds, in Ontario. New England, 

 and California. (Europe and Asia.) May to July. 



This species was introduced from Europe because of its pleasing appearance 

 and is occasionally cultivated for ornamental purposes. It is little known in 

 this country, but is classed as a valuable meadow grass in middle Europe, and 

 is recommended for mixtures for pastures on dry. thin soils. 



