Vermont Shrubs and Woody Vines 



1Y5 



over old fences and stones. The leaves are curiously variable 

 in shape and size. The purplish flowers resemble potato blos- 

 boms. The red berries are egg-shaped, about the size of large 

 currants, borne in clusters which become conspicuous and beau- 



Climbing Nightshade. 

 Branch with flower and fruit, X %. 



tiful as they ripen in the autumn. The plant has medicinal 

 properties and was formerly used as an herb remedy in Europe. 

 The name bittersweet probably arose from the fact, as stated 

 by Lindley, that in England the young stems collected in the au- 

 tumn for medicinal purposes "have at first a bitter taste which 

 is succeeded by an agreeable sweetness." The berries yield 

 green and violet dyes. The climbing nightshade is sufficiently 

 attractive so that it is planted as an ornamental vine to cover 

 low banks and trellises. For most places preferable plants can 

 be found, unless this is introduced for variety's sake. 



MADDER FAMILY. RUBIACEAE 



This large family of plants includes several of much eco- 

 nomic interest such as madder and other dye plants, the ipecac 



