FEATHER GRASS, in botany: A genus of plants belonging to the class of triandra, and order of digynia; and in the natural system ranging under the 4th order, Gramina. The calyx is bivalved. The exterior valve of the corolla is terminated by an awn; the base is jointed.

There are nine species, the pennata, juncea, capillata, ariflora, tenacissima, avenacea, membranacea, arguens, and spicata. Of these only is British, the pennata or common feather grass. The beards are feathered. The plant rises to the height of 10 inches, grows on mountains, and flowers in July or August.