362 



GRASSES OF IOWA. 



Fig. 166. Thin-grass, {Agrostis perennans). Widely distributed In timber. Not 

 especially valuable for forage purposes. (F. Lamson-Scribner, U. S. 

 Dept. Agrl.) 



Redtop is a valuable grass, particularly in low meadows, 

 where it is common. It makes a fine turf and may be pastured 

 without injury. The hay is of the finest quality. Although 

 this grass is naturalized in many parts of the state, it is sel- 

 dom sown. 



Other species. — Several other species of Agrostis are used for 

 meadow and pasture purposes. The most valuable of these 

 are Rhode Island Bent (A. canina, L.) and the rough-leaved 

 Bent (^. asperifolia, Trin.), a native of the Rocky mountain 

 regions. We also have several native species in Iowa, like the 

 Agrostis pei'ennans, which occurs in woodland, and is common in 

 moist, shady places. Though widely distributed, this species 



