224 PHRAGMITES COMMUNIS. 



sheaths, which extend beyoiid their leaves, and are destitute of ligules. 

 Joints fifteen, smooth and polished. Inflorescence compound-panicled; 

 panicle large, drooping on one side, pale brown in colour. Spikelets 

 numerous, spreading, and of three awnless florets. Calyx of two un- 

 equal, acute, narrow glumes, with a rib on either side; upper one 

 situated on a brief peduncle. Florets of two paleae, exterior one of 

 basal floret lanceolate, three-ribbed, and twice the length of the large 

 glume; inner palea short. The peduncle of the second floret having 

 lengthy, white, silky hairs spreading in every direction, and giving a 

 beautiful silky appearance to the large panicle. Length from sixty to 

 seventy inches. Root perennial and creeping. 



Flowers in August, and ripens its seed in September. 



The specimen for illustration was procured at Highfield House. 



