(CRYPTOGAMIA. 351 
Boss. none. 
Pisr. A globule sitting, or supported on a pedicle. Style 
none. | 
S. Vess. Capsule sitting, or on a pedicle, nearly globular ; 
in most instances surrounded by an elastic and jointed 
rmg which is produced from the pedicle; opening 
transversely when ripe, and discharging the seeds. . 
SEEDs many, very minute, globular. (Schreb.) 
_ Inthe months of September and October this curious 
mechanism is very evident in the Common Brakes, 
(PTE’RIS,) or in the Hart’s-tongue, (ASPLE’NIUM 
Scolop.) by the assistance of a good single Microscope with 
a reflecting a The sudden jerk of the springing 
cord frequently carries the object out-of the field of view, 
so that it requires some patience to observe the whole of 
the process. — wae i. RE: SSS ae 
As there are no-certain distinctions in the flowers them- 
selves sufficient to establish the Genera, these are known 
by the disposition-of the seeds under their covers. 
- OPHIOGLOS’SUM vulgatum. Examining the spike 
in its advanced state, with a moderate magnifier, we find 
‘colimns on each side, with cavities opening transversely, 
scattering a powder, and beset with innumerable eminences 
tiled one upon another like scales. With a very fine 
knife slice off a portion, so as it may have a little of the 
column on each side. Examine this in a good compound 
microscope, reflecting the light through it. Transverse lines 
will then appear, which, as well as the interstices between 
them, are more opake than the part on each side. PI, xiii. 
f.7. Tt is easy to scrape off some of the eminences with 
the back of a knife ; put them into a little water, and use 
higher and higher magnifying powers; you will then dis- 
cover simple and. compound bodies, mostly oval, surround- 
ed with a more pellucid line, and containing a granulated 
substance within. f.8. segs 
“Others may decide whether the leaf in this plant an- 
swers the purpose of an Involucre or Calyx whilst it 1s in 
flower; but I consider the spike as bearmg both Stamens 
and Pistils; the Anthers occupying the interstices of the 
Germens, which are furnished with a transverse Summit. 
