54 



THE PLANT WOELD 



attachment was apparently weak, exactly as if a pin liad been passed 

 vertically down, holding one below the other almost on a pivot, but 

 firm enough to last for years, as none showed any decay. 



It would seem strange indeed if nature had resorted to this method 

 of preserving the species, since the location affords abundant opportu- 

 nity for seed distribution and plant growth. I hope to be able to con- 

 tinue investigations on the subject during the coming season. — Joseph 

 Crawford, Philadelphia, Pa. 



m^ 



An Abnormal Seedling. 



Recently while making some germination tests with gingko {Ghujhf 

 biloba L.) seeds, a peculiar plant appeared. This bears four leaves 

 which are fully developed. The first one is normal. The edges of the 

 second have coalesced along their entire length, giving the leaf a cornu- 

 copia-like form. In the third and fourth leaves the edges have coalesced 

 for about half their length. It is some time since the last leaf came 

 out, and there is no terminal bud apparent. If the bud develops and 

 the plant lives, it will be interesting to see if the tree preserves this 

 peculiar form of leaves. — E. Brown, Department of Agriculture, Wash- 

 ington, D. C. 



