2 
ways assumed by the perfect stamens after the anthers have performed their functions. Thirdly, that there is an equal 
analogy between the calyx of the neutral florets and that of the perfect floret ; because both have a peculiar glan- 
dular margin; the same form; both produce their stamens from their surface; and because the upper edge of the calyx 
in the sterile florets has the same relation to the axis of each particular head, as that of the perfect floret has to the 
axis of the whole inflorescence. In Reseda Phyteuma, which has the margin of its neutral florets rolled back, the 
_ same thing occurs in the perfect floret. Fourthly, that there is no instance of the same analogy existing between the 
discus and petals of other plants. We may also observe, that in Reseda Phyteuma there is a campanulate tube to the’ 
calyx, into the upper edge of which the stamens are inserted. 
To determine the affinity of Reseda to other orders will not be so easy as to explain its structure. One cannot 
avoid remarking the resemblance between its calyx and the squama of Amentacee, and Ulmacee. Ficoidee, Grossu- 
lacee and Cacti, on account of placentation and structure of seed, may be supposed to have a certain relation to it : 
as may Chenopodee with regard to inflorescence, absence of petals and habit. But we are disposed to believe its real 
place in the system is in the neighbourhood of Kuphorbiacee, where we have placed itin Flora Scotica. They agree 
with it in having the same sort of aggregation of flowers, similar habit, no corolla, and ternary division of ovarium. 
The insertion of their ovyula is the same, as is also the direction of the radicle. They differ, however, Virstly, in the 
presence of albumen ; which yet is not entirely absorbed in Reseda till the seed is perfectly ripe, and which exists 
even after that time in the seed of R. alba, when it is fleshy as in Euphorbiacee. Secondly, in their solitary seeds ; 
in which respect Resedacee may be supposed to bear the same relation to Kuphorbiacee as Campanulacee do to 
‘Composite ; or as some sections of Rubiacee do to others. In R. suffruticulosa the ovules appeared to be reduced 
to a single row: and the same is said to obtain in Ochradenus. Thirdly, in elastic dehiscence of capsule ; but as this 
is not universal in Huphorbiacee, it is not strictly speaking an objection of importance. 
EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE. 
1. Young head of flowers. 2. The same in a more advanced state. 3. A head of flowers seen from above, after the perfect 
floret has been cut away ; showing the disposition of the neutral florets round the common axis. 4, A vertical section of a head 
of flowers. 5. The outside of an upper neutral floret. 6. Calyx of the perfect floret seen from above, after the stamens and 
ovarium have been removed. 7. Young anthers. 8. Anthers burst. 9. Pollen. 10. Ovarium. 11. A transverse section of 
it, showing the apparently three-fold insertion of ovula. A 1. Seed of Reseda alba. 2. Longitudinal section of the same. 
Obs. Both these are reversed, by an inaccuracy of the engraver, which was not noticed till the impression was struck off. 
