Introductory. ix 



5. The general distribiction in Ceylon and the comparative 

 frequency (in small type) ; followed, in the case of the rarer 

 species, by special localities. 



Very much has yet to be done in tracing out the distribution of our 

 plants through the island, and the information here given is very im- 

 perfect, and will be much modified and increased by further investiga- 

 tion. A brief account of the climatic regions and zones of altitude is 

 appended (C). 



The time of flowering and colour of the flowers. 



The flowering period is liable to considerable variation in different 

 years and in different climatic districts, being dependent to a consider- 

 able extent on varying distribution of the rainfall ; the months here given,, 

 correct as far as they go, cannot be regarded as at all exhaustive. 



6. The general range of distribution beyond Ceylon (also 

 in small type). 



Usually taken from the ' Fl. Brit. Ind.' with occasional additions or 

 modifications. 



Any subsequent paragraphs are occupied with brief notes 

 on the history and nomenclature of the species, on any 

 special peculiarity in its structure, and on its properties, 

 products, and uses. 



Intercalated in their proper places among the species thus 

 fully treated are certain other plants which are not natives of 

 Ceylon, but have been certainly introduced by the agency of 

 man, and are now met with in a more or less completely 

 wild or naturalised state. The names of these are printed 

 in Italic, not Clarendon, type, and the whole account runs 

 on in a single paragraph. 



The coloured figures (in 4to) accompanying this book are 

 a small selection only from the extensive series illustrating 

 the Ceylon flora which is preserved in the Library of the 

 Botanic Gardens at Peradeniya. This was commenced more 

 than fifty years ago, and has been steadily continued under 

 successive Directors. It now numbers several thousand 

 drawings, and has been wholly the work of three members 



