IN EXTRA-TROPICAl COUNTRIES. 213 



Panicum framentaceum, Roxburgh. 



The Shamalo or Deecan Grass. Probably introduced from 

 tropical Africa into South Asia. It serves as a fodder grass 

 and produces also a kind of millet. The grain much recom- 

 mended by Mr. C. B. Taylor for culinary purposes. To this 

 species is allied P. sarmentosum, Roxb., from Sumatra, which 

 is now likewise much cultivated in tropical countries. It is 

 perennial. 



Fanicnin Italicnm, Linne. 



This grassj notwithstanding its specific name, is of Indian 

 origin, ascending the Himalayas to 6,500 feet. It is annual and 

 worthy to be cultivated as a tender green fodder, attaining a 

 height of 5 feet. It keeps weeds down. The ■ abundantly- 

 produced grain is not only one of the best for poultry, but 

 that of some varieties can also be utilised as millet. Con- 

 sidered by many a delicious grain for cakes and porridge. The 

 Brahmins hold it in higher esteem than any other grain (Dr. 

 Ainslie). P. Germanicum, Eoth., is a form of this species. 

 The similar P. macrostachyum, Nees, occurs in many tropical 

 regions. 



Panicum Koenig^i, Sprengel (P. Helopus, Trin.) 

 India. A good fodder grass. 



Panicum latissimum, Mikan. 



Brazil. A highly ornamental grass. Leaves extremely broad, 

 but hard ; panicle very rich. 



Panicum maximum, Jacquin.* (P. jumentorum, Persoon.) 



The Guinea Grass. Tropical Africa; elsewhere not indi- 

 genous. This perennial grass attains a height of 8 feet in, 

 tropical countries. It is highly nutritious and quite adapted 

 for the warmer temperate zone, hardy as far south as Buenos 

 Ayres. A favourite grass in tropical countries for stall fodder. 

 Succeeds even on poor clay soil and on sea-sand. 



Panicum miliaceum, Linne.* (P. miliare, Lam.) 



The true Millet. South Asia, ascending the Himalayas to 

 11,000 feet. North Australia, but cultivated in Southern 

 Europe so early as Hippocrates' and Theophrastos' time. 

 Annual, attaining a height of 4) feet. Several varieties occur, 

 one with black grains. They all need a rich but friable soil. 

 It is one of the best of all grains for poultry, but furnishes 

 also a palatable and nutritious table food. It ripens still in 

 Middle Europe. 



