76 



v> 



FIG. 54. Polypogon monspelienais (L.) Desf. BEARD GRASS.— a, Aspikelet: 

 b, the same with the outer empty glumes removed; c, flower. Figs. 472 and 473 

 in Bui. No. 17 illustrate other species of this genus. 



54. POLYPOGON Desf. Fl. Atl. 1 : 66. 1798. Spikelets 1-flowered, hermaph- 

 rodite. Glumes 3; 2 outer ones empty, nearly equal, usually broader above, 

 entire or 2-lobed, awned, awn slender, straight; the 3d or flowering glume much 

 smaller than the outer ones, usually thin and hyaline, entire, emarginate or bifid 

 at the apex, awned; awn slender, straight, or geniculate and twisted below. 

 Palea smaller than its glume. Stamens 1 to 3. Styles short, distinct; stigmas 

 plumose. Caryopsis free. Usually annual grasses with decumbent, or rarely 

 erect stems, flat leaves, and densely flowered terminal panicles. 



Species about 10, in the warmer temperate regions of both hemispheres. 



