422 



GRASSES OF IOWA. 



Buffalo Grass (Buchloe dactyloides Engelm). The true Buf- 

 falo grass is only indigenous in Lyon county, this state, where it 

 was found by Mr. Leiberg and Prof. Shimek. It is one of the 

 most valuable grasses of the plains, greatly relished by stock 

 of all kinds. It has a low spreading habit of growth, forming 

 dense mats and rarely is more than five inches high. The fine 



Fig. 196. Buffalo Grass. {Buchloe dactyloides) . One of the best of the native 

 grasses of the plains. Suited for dry hills. (Div. Agrost. D. .S. Dept. Agrl.) 



leaves and stems are highly nutritious. Stockmen of central 

 and western Nebraska report it one of the best of the winter 

 forage grasses. Like testimonials come from central and 

 northern Texas. Lamson-Scribner* reports that it grows 

 with great vigor in Washington, D. C , "and it may be pos- 

 sible to use this most palatable and nutritious grass in portions 

 of the eastern and southern states." 



Sporobulus — Several species of this genus are common 

 throughout the state, and at one time were important forage 

 plants. 



'Economic Grasses. Bull. D. S. Dept. Agrl. Dlv. Agrost. 14:25. 



