42 NAT. ORDER. SCROPHULARINEiE. 



two lips, the upper of which is divided into two, and the lower into 

 three segments, all of them irregular, the two uppermost very 

 much so ; at the base of the middle segment of the lower lip, are 

 two prominent ridges, of a somewhat deeper color ; the stamens 

 are four, two long, and two short ; the anthers are of a deep orange 

 cruciform, within the flower ; the stigma is white, and two-lipped ; 

 lips closed or expanded, according to its age ; the style is filiform ; 

 the germen oblong, at the base of which is a gland of considerable 

 size, which secretes small quantities of honey. 



This plant is a native of the warmer parts of both North and 

 South America, and is found in blossom during most of the sum- 

 mer months. It is easily increased by cuttings and layers, and 

 would, no doubt, if properly managed, prove a valuable acquisition 

 to the flower-garden. 



Medical Properties and Uses. This plant partakes of the 

 properties of those generally contained in this order. The leaves 

 and roots act both as purgatives and emetics, in many respects re- 

 sembling Digitalis: in fact, those properties are so prominent, that 

 its use as a medicine is considered highly dangerous. The pow- 

 dered leaves, or an extract of them, will produce vomiting, dejec- 

 tion and vertigo, and, if continued even in small doses, will increase 

 the secretion of the saliva and urine, reduce the pulse, and even 

 cause death. According to the account given of this plant, by 

 Vauquelin, the purgative qualities depend upon the presence of a 

 peculiar substance, analagous to resin, but differing, as it is soluble 

 in hot water. It is recorded that the Indians of Spanish America 

 procure an infusion of the roots and tops, and administer it for the 

 cure of fever and ague, which, however, they recommend to be 

 given in extremely small doses. Cattle, horses, sheep, and other 

 animals, feeding upon the prairies where this plant is abundant, 

 have fallen victims to its narcotic and stupifying influence. There 

 is, however, another species of this plant — the Mimulus guttatus.- 

 the leaves of which are eaten as salad, by the natives en the coast 



