JUNCACE^:. 



227 



An herb, with tufted grass-like leaves, and slender erect 

 stems, bearing close heads of small, dry flowers. 



OBSERVE the scarious perianth and extremely minute 

 embryo, by which the Order is distinguished from Liliaceae. 

 In general aspect the species of the Rush Family resemble 



FIG. 171. Vertical section of flower of Field Woodrush. 



Sedges, but differ from them in possessing a complete 

 six-leaved perianth. 



The wick of " Rushlights " is the cellular pith-like 

 tissue of peeled stems of Rush (Juncus effusus}. Under 

 the microscope this pith-like tissue exhibits beautifully 

 star-shaped (stellate) cells. 



68. Natttral Order Orchidacese. The Orchid Family. 

 DISTRIBUTION. Widely diffused through both hemi- 

 spheres ; especially numerous in humid and warm regions. 



Q 2 



