Lygeum
(from lygeo, to bend; alluding to the flexibility of the plant). ORD. Gramineae. The only species of this genus is a hardy perennial grass. It thrives in any light loamy soil, and may be increased by dividing at the roots.
L. Spartum (Spartum). fl. hermaphrodite; peduncle terminal; spikelet usually large, erect or nodding, two, rarely three-flowered. May. l. rush-like, erect, long, convolute-terete, subulate, acuminate. h. 1 1/2ft. Mediterranean region (rocky places on the seashore), 1776. This species furnishes Albardine, a valuable material for paper-making. The plant which yields the Esparto of the paper-makers is Macrochloa tenacissima.