LIFE HISTORIES OF FAMIIJAR PLANTS 



structurally considered, each is as much an orchid 

 as the choice odontoglossum, cattleya, or C3^pri- 

 pedium of the rich cultivator. In Fig. 8i (Plate 

 57) this is clearly illustrated. Here is shown 

 a magnified view of the topmost part of one 

 of these spikes, with one flower fully opened 

 and the lower flowers removed. So enlarged, its 

 orchid form is readily recognised. 



My work amongst the plants to-day has not 

 been cultivation. The spotted orchid, or, to be 

 strictly correct, orchis, needs no attention ; it 

 thrives best when left to its own resources. It has, 

 by slow adaptation of its form and structure to the 

 requirements of its environment, attained a marvel- 

 lous degree of perfection. Indeed, when considering 

 the curious details of its remarkable organisation, 

 one is inclined to wonder if there can be found 

 anything more extraordinary in the whole of the 

 plant world. Perhaps there is nothing more extra- 

 ordinary, unless it be still other species of orchids ; 

 but as each species possesses its own novel charac- 

 teristics together with the general family traits, the 

 spotted orchis is as wonderful as any. My work 

 to-day has been investigation into the mysteries or 

 its existence, and I now invite my readers to share 

 my observations. 



There are the roots of this curious plant. They 

 are well worth a little study, but it will need some 

 considerable care to get them clear of the soil in 

 anything like a perfect condition. Time after 

 time the stems will break off low down in the 

 ground without revealing any signs of the pair of 



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