THE CINCINNATUS. 



VOL. 11. AUGUST 1, 1857. NO. 8. 



SEXUALITY OF PLANTS— FECUNDATION, HYBKIDIZA- 



TION, Etc. 



In previous numbers of tlie "Cincinnatus," we discussed at some 

 length the physiological character of the root, stem and leaves, 

 and their important functions, and gave the practical bearings 

 of the fticts and principles developed to the Agriculturist and Hor- 

 ticulturist. "We will in our present number resume in a similar 

 manner, the discussion in relation to what may be denominated the 

 reproductive system of plants, or those parts especially employed in 

 the germination and maturation of the seed and fruit. 



And we can not approach this subject without being deeply im- 

 pressed with the conviction that there is not a more remarkable 

 and interesting class of phenomena in the entire vegetable kino-- 

 dom than that under consideration, and under this felt conviction 

 are led to exclaim, in the language of the Psalmist : "0 Lord how 

 manifold are Thy works, in wisdom hast Thou made them all. " 



The teachings of nature in relation to her numerous forms, cor- 

 respondences, and adaptations are not only surpassingly interesting, 

 but when properly studied will be found to contribute their full 

 quota of utility in application. 



It is evident that the root, stem and leaves would not suffice 

 to fit the plant for the discharge of all its functions. It needs, 

 among others, organs or appendages for covering, for support, and 

 for enabling it to propagate and perpetuate itself. To meet these 

 wants members are found to spring up at the very ^jfece where they are 

 needed, and at the very time when they are needed; and when they 

 VOL. II., VIII.— 22. . ^337) 



