Canary grass
Canary grass
Scientific name: Phalaris canariensis L.
Bangla/local name: Not known
Taxonomic Position According Cronquist (1981)
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Subclass | Commelinidae |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Phalaris |
| Species | P. canariensis |
Botanical Description of Canary Grass
Stem: This large, coarse grass has erect, hairless stems, usually from 2 to 6 feet (0.6- 1.8 metres) tall. The ligule is prominent and membranous, ¼ inch (0.6 cm) long and rounded at the apex. The gradually tapering leaf blades are 3½–10 inches (8.9–25.4 cm) long, ¼–¾ inch (0.6–1.9 cm) wide, flat, and often harsh on both surfaces. The compact panicles are erect or sometimes slightly spreading and range from 3–16 inches (7.6–40.6 cm) long with branches ½–1½ inches (1.2–3.8 cm) long.
Inflorescence: Green or slightly purple at first, then become tan.
Flower: Single flowers occur in dense clusters.
Seed: The seeds are shiny brown.
Economic Importance
The seed is used as bird food and is generally mixed with rapeseed and other seeds that cheapen it. It should be kept in a dry place and away from vermin. Industrially, a flour made from seed is employed in the manufacture of fine cotton goods and silk stuffs.