a genus of plants belonging to the triandria clas; and in the natural method ranking under the 4th order, Graminae. See Botany Index.

This plant was highly valued by the ancients, both as an article of luxury and medicine. The unguentum nardinum, was used at baths and feasts as a favourite perfume. Its value is evident from that passage of Scripture, where our Saviour's head was anointed with a box of it, with which Judas found fault. From a passage in Horace, it appears that this ointment was so valuable among the Romans, that as much as could be contained in a small box of precious stone was considered as a fort of equivalent for a large vessel of wine, and a proper quota for a guest to contribute at an entertainment, according to the ancient custom:

Nardo vina merere, Nardi parvus onyx efficiet cadum.