THE AXGIOSPHRMAE: LEAVES 



991 



to that in the hypsophylls. Thirdly, they may be formed by the modification 

 of stipules in some plants belonging to families such as the Rosaceae, where 

 these latter organs are present. 



Fig. 978. — PhylaciiDH niajiis. Inflorescence showing re- 

 supinate bracts acting as protective coverings to the 

 flowers. {After Collet otni Henisley.) 



The term stipules has been loosely applied to outgrowths at the base 

 of a leaf of very various forms and natures (Fig. 979). Some of these are, 

 however, not of true stipular character and the name should be limited to 

 paired lateral outgrowths of the leaf base, corresponding to the lateral lobes 

 or leaflets which may be produced from the laminar portion of the leaf. 

 Simple though such a definition may appear, it is by no means easy to apply 

 it in all cases. Fusions and displacements during the process of development 

 may obscure the lateral or the paired nature of stipules, so that opinions 

 differ regarding the interpretation of many structures, such as, for example, 

 the ochrea in the Polygonaceae (see p. 993). We shall here relegate the ligules 

 and intravaginal scales of the jNIonocotyledons to a separate category, while 

 admitting that this is a disputable opinion. 



