Agropyrum repens may have a mucronate awn-point or not. The small palea 10-12, the caryopsis 5-6 mm. (see p. [169] for description).
This troublesome weed (Couch-grass) presents similar difficulties with Lolium perenne that Agropyrum caninum does with Lolium temulentum—see p. [168]. It is moreover extremely variable.
Dactylis glomerata, L. (Fig. [64]).
Stiff awn-point just below the two teeth of apex of pale. Rachilla dilated above. Paleæ 5-6 mm. long exclusive of point, compressed and inflated, ribbed and ciliate-bristly on keel, the tip incurved. Caryopsis yellow-brown, ellipsoid, 2 mm.
An important grass, said to be adulterated with Lolium, Fescues, Holcus, Molinia, Bromus, &c., most of which should be readily detected. The curved tip is an important distinctive character. Cynosurus and Festuca arundinacea, F. ovina and F. rubra present resemblances. The seed is larger than that of Poa.
F. ovina and F. rubra are smaller, rounded dorsally, and have no keel or cilia: the nerves are less prominent and the rachilla smaller.
Sesleria cærulea, Ard.
Palea distinctly toothed at the apex, making it almost three-lobed and very characteristic; with awn-point; five ribs, serrulate. Fruit grey-yellow, obovate.
It is a mountain-and moor-grass of little value.
B. “Seed" awned—i.e. the investing palea bears, or tapers into, a distinct bristle or hair at least as long as itself or nearly so.