GRASSES OF BRITAIN. 217 



tuse ; the ribs of the upper leaf more numerous and distinct ; and 

 the anthers about one-thu'd of the size. 



It is likewise distinguished from Poa Borreri in the spikelets being 

 larger, the panicle not so much contracted, and the outer palea 

 considerably more obtuse. 



These characters, although not very prominent, are quite sufficient 

 to distinguish the species. 



Explanation of Plate XCVI. Poa distans (variety) obtusa^ natu- 

 ral size. 



Fig. 1. Spikelet, showing the two glumes and seven florets. 



2. Glximes. 



3. Floret, showing the two paleje. 



4. Outer palea opened, showing the five ribs and obtuse summit. [ § 



5. Ligule of upper sheath. j ^ 



6. Ovarium, pistils, stamens, and scales. 



