204 



FREAKS OF PLANT LIFE. 



a brief explanation of the process. The end of the 

 leaf (in Gloriosa Plantii) forms a narrow projec- 

 tion, which is thickened and at first nearly straight; 

 subsequently it bends downwards and forms a hook, 

 which becomes strong enough and rigid enough 



Fig. 28. — Common Fumitory {Fumaria officinalis). 



to catch any object and fasten the plant. The inner 

 surface of the hook is somewhat sensitive, and, when 

 a twig is caught by it, the extremity curves a 

 little inwards and permanently seizes it. If nothing 



