DICOTYLEDONOUS PLANTS 



359 



The common flax (Linum usitatissimum) and the narrow- 

 headed flax (L. angustifolium) are important commercially. 

 They probably originated in the sub-tropical regions of Hindu- 

 stan and the Mediterranean, but are now grown in temperate 

 regions. The early history of flax is unknown, but it was used 

 extensively bv the ancients. The fiber is used for the manufac- 



FIG. 201. Distribution of flax production (seed) in United States. (From U. S. Cens-s 



Report/ 1910.) 



ture of laces, linen, coarse cloth and cordage ; the seeds are har- 

 vested for the manufacture of linseed oil, which is used in mixing 

 paints and for many other purposes (Fig. 201). 



GERANIACE^E '(Geranium Family). Mostly herbs; perfect, 

 usually symmetrical, five-merous flowers ; leaves simple. This 

 family includes the well-known geraniums which are cultivated 

 so extensively as ornamentals, many wild geraniums, the wood 

 sorrels (Oxalis), the touch-me-nots and jewel weeds. 



RUTACE^E (Orange or Citrus Family). Shrubs and trees; 

 leaves alternate ; flowers perfect, sepals four or five, imbricated ; 



