TLATANTHElLt. 



2 1 3 



of insertion of the first leaf of the bud, invests the whole 

 surface of the infant tuber, aud at its base becomes confluent 

 with the cuticle of the upper surface of the parent leaf. Between 

 these two modes of construction there is every possible degree of 

 transition. When vegetation recommences in spring, the changes 

 which take place are confined, so far at least as relates to our 



Platanthera bifolia 



present subject, to the development of the parts already existent, 

 which are fully expanded towards the end of May or the beginning 

 of June ; the full-formed bud of the previous year is perfectly 

 evolved ; the leaves extend beyond the sheaths, and the peduncle 

 beyond the leaves ; and in case no peduncle is present, the main 

 axis remains very short. The tuber belonging to this bud is 



q2 



