919 



vulpina is tolerably constant; but in C. paniculata it is so exceed- 

 ingly variable, that the only part on which we can depend as afford- 

 ing a permanent specific character is the fruit.* The fruit indeed is 

 now generally referred to by botanists in their characters and descrip- 

 tions of the numerous species of Carex, but its value will be peculiarly 

 apparent in a plant, the habit of which is so liable to variation as that 

 of C. paniculata. No dependance can be placed on the inflorescence, 

 for in my specimens this varies from a nearly simple elongated spike, 

 through different gradations, up to a regular panicle with branches 

 between three and four inches long — a variation pointed out by Mr. 

 Babington and other botanists. A good character would seem to be 

 afforded by the tendency of the root to form large tufts ; but as this 

 appears also to be the case with the root of the new Carex paradoxa, 

 as well as, although in a less degree, with that of C. teretiuscula ; we 

 are obliged, especially for home study, to have recourse to the fruit 

 for a character, and a most satisfactory one is afforded by it. Figures 

 a. and b. are copied from Leighton's ' Flora of Shropshire,' and well 



a,b. Perigynium and nut of Carex paniculata. c,(l. The same parts of C. teretiuscula. e,f. The same 

 of C. pseudo-paradoxa, Glhs. 



express the usual form of the perigynium and nut of Carex panicula- 

 ta : the former with its bidentate beak and somewhat serrated densely 

 fringed wings ; and the latter with its ovate outline and the enlarged 



* It may perhaps prevent misunderstanding, if I lieie repeat that I use the term 

 fruit for the perigynium and incUuled nut. 



