THE CATKIN-BEARERS, 



241 



a variable member of lobes (I.). Stamens usually 

 about ten (but only six are given in I.). The female 

 flowers are on the same tree, the oak being monoecious. 

 First to be noticed is the little cu^d composed of over- 

 lapping or imbricated scales (II.). Within this is the 



m. 



3ir 



Fig. 94.— a. Catkin of the Oak. I. Male flower of Oak. II. Female flowers. 

 (Both X 3.) III. Female flower, cut vertically. 



female flower. It consists of a pistil of three carpels, 

 as shown by the three-lobed stigma, the ovary being 

 invested by a receptacular tube, and is, therefore, 

 inferior. 



The calyx limb is almost imperceptible, being a 



