tire, and probably consists of two bracts united, leaving a scar 
at the base of the spikes, which latter rapidly attain their full 
size, about two inches long. achis terete, acuminated, bear- 
ing rather sui placed, nearly colourless flowers on all sides. 
Perianth (or perhaps bracteoles*) of two membranous, obovate, 
whitish scales, inserted on the under side of the flower. Stamens 
six. Filaments about as long as the sepals, rather thick, acute 
at the point of insertion of the anther. Anther oval, erect, two- 
celled, ce//s opening laterally and longitudinally. Ovaries three, 
ovate, tapering into a short, slightly curved style. 
* Decaisne has the following note :—‘ An, propter florum fabricam, stamina 
pro floribus masculis distinctis, et ovaria pro feemineis centralibus, perianthiique 
squamz pro bracteis habenda?” 
_ Fig. 1. Extremity of a scape, before the spikes are developed, and while yet 
covered by the calyptriform :—natural size. 2. Lid or bract, fallen off. 
3. Portion of a spike with flowers. 4. Sepal (or bracteole). 5. Stamen. 
6. Pistil:—all except fig. 1 more or less magnified. 
