I90 



SAPINDACE^. 



[CTIAP. 



the leaves and not as axillary branches. A comparison of the 

 tendrils and flower-bearing panicles will show that they are 

 both modifications of the same organ. Each tendril and 

 panicle is regarded as an axis, the loAver portion of which 

 forms the internode (or internodes), immediately below, of the 

 main stem. The succeeding internode of the stem is a new 

 and distinct axis, originating in the axil of the leaf opposite 

 to which the tendril or peduncle is given off. Observe also 

 the tendency of the petals to cohere at their apices, so that 

 they are thrown off as a cap by the expanding stamens. 



To numerous varieties of one species of this Family ( V. 

 viniferci) we owe nearly all our wine, raisin, and dessert 

 grapes. 



In a curious Malayan genus {Pterisanthes) the flowers are 

 arranged upon a broad, flattened, membranous expansion of 

 the peduncle, which looks like a monstrous condition. 



31. Natural Order, Sap'mdacece. — The Soapwort Family. 



Usually trees with alternate, pinnate leaves, and incon- 

 spicuous, often panicled, polygamous flowers. Stamens free; 

 ovary three-, four-, or two-celled. 



Type— The Litchi {Nephelium Litchi). 



