Superior lemma 9-nerved, pilose but the hairs not in tufts, bidentate, with an awn 10–15 mm. long.
Palea keels narrowly winged, without auricles or appendages.
Inferior glume 1/2 length of spikelet, acuminate.
Panicle 20–35 cm. long, loose.
Spikelets 9–13 mm. long.
Inferior lemma 7-nerved.
Culms 1–2.5 m. high.
Perennial.