Domestic Encyclopædia (1802)/Spring-Grass

SPRING-GRASS, the Sweet-scented, or Vernal-grass, Anthoxanthum odoratum, L. an indigenous perennial, growing in meadows and pastures; flowering in the months of May and June.—This is one of the earliest British pasture-grasses, and occasions the delicate flavour perceptible in newly-made hay. It is eagerly eaten by cows, horses, goats, and sheep; on account of its aromatic taste, and juicy, nutritive nature.—Mr. Swayne, however, observes, that it abounds in wet lands, particularly on peat-bogs; and that it appears to be of little consequence; as it is neither very productive to the farmer, nor palatable to cattle.—Nevertheless, other agriculturists are of a different opinion; and Mr. Sole (Letters and Papers of the Bath and West of England Society, vol. ix.) conceives that the vernal-grass would be an useful addition to meadows, by sowing it in the proportion of one-eighth. This judicious advice, every practical husbandman will be induced to adopt; as it is a well-known fact, that this fragrant herb not only remarkably spreads, and increases in its bushy stalks, when cultivated in favourable situations, but it also effectually checks the growth of moss, in sour meadows.—It is farther remarkable, that the root of this grass possesses a strong odour, resembling that of musk.—The dried blossoms are, on the Continent, employed for imparting an agreeable flavour to snuff and tobacco.