Mint and Thyme 281 
which have already burst when the flower opens, 
though the stigma is not ready. The latter consists 
of two lobes, of which the lower and longer hangs 
down at a later period and touches the bee’s back 
at the spot where it has received pollen from a 
younger flower. The other British species agree 
generally in their arrangements. 
We have five native Dead Nettles (Lamiwm), which 
have no relationship with the Stinging Nettles (Urtica), 
and have only been called Nettles because of a super- 
ficial resemblance between the leaves of the two 
genera. The most striking form is the White Dead- 
nettle (LZ. album), which is specially adapted for 
fertilisation by large bees, notably humble-bees. The 
outline of the corolla is peculiar, 
the back wanting in the continu- 
ally graceful curve that one feels 
it ought to have. Itis a bit flat 
here, and there is an abrupt turn 
there, which give the impression 
of partial distortion; but on care- 
ful examination it will be found 
that these departures from the 
smooth flow of the curve really 
help in the special adaptation, 
whilst they put hindrances in 
the way of  short-tongued 
insects reaching the honey which they are unable to 
earn by fertilising the seed-eggs. The upper lip is 
helmet-shaped, and holds the stamens and pistil as 
well as fitting the bee’s back; the lower lip forming 
the platform as usual, whilst a pair of side lobes 
keeps the insect’s head in the right position. Honey 
White Deadenettle 
