GRASSES OF THE UNITED STATES. 



Peimakia, Flugge. 



Spikelets acuminate, in unilateral snbsessile spikes, with one per- 

 fect terminal flower and one exterior empty glume, which is mem- 

 branaceous, three to five nerved, acute, about equalling the fertile 

 glume. Fertile glume and palet indurated or membranaceous, finely 

 punctnlate. Stamens 2, styles 2, distinct to the base. Stigmas long 

 and plumose. Culms ascending, diffusely branched at the base. 



1. K. oligostachya, Munro. Florida. 



This species varies from the character of the genus in usually 

 having a second outer glume either fully or imperfectly developed 

 in a portion of the spikelets of each spike. 



H. acuta occurs in Cuba, and will probably also be found in 

 Southern Florida. 



Paspalum, Linn. 



Spikelets obtuse or rarely short acuminate, each with one terminal 

 perfect flower, in one or two rows along one side of the slender soli- 

 tary or paniculate flattened spikes. Glumes 3, the two outer ones 

 membranous, equal, or in a few species the outer one smaller or dis- 

 appearing ; the flowering glume more or less concave, becoming in- 

 durated, embracing the shorter palet, which is of the same texture. 

 Stamens 3, styles 2, distinct to the base. Stigmas plumose. Spikes 

 simple, terminal, or subdigitate, or approximate or scattered along 

 the general peduncle ; spreading or reflexed. 



This genus has its rauge principally in the Southern and South- 

 western States. The species are very numerous, are mostly peren- 

 nials, and vary much in form and habit. Some are tall and erect, 

 some decumbent or spreading, and others have the habit of sending 

 out runners which take root at short intervals, and thus spread and 

 form dense patches. They are all relished by cattle, and some of 

 them are considered of great value as pasture grasses. 



1. P. CEespitosum, Flugge. Florida. 



2. P. ciliatifolium, Michx. Southern States. 



3. P. conjugatum, Berg. Florida to Texas. 



