2*6 



MONOCHLAMYDE* 



4. Beta (Beet) 



I. B. maritima (Sea-Beet). The only British species. A tall, 



succulent plant, about 2 feet high, 

 with large, fleshy, glossy, lower leaves, 

 and narrower upper leaves ; angular 

 stems, and numerous leafy spikes of 

 green flowers, which are arranged 1 or 

 2 together, with a small leaf at the 

 base of each. The root-leaves when 

 boiled are quite as good as Spinach. 

 Sea- shore ; common. Fl. June to 

 October. Perennial. 



5. Salsola (Saltwort) 



1. 5. kali (Prickly Saltwort). 

 The only British species. A small 

 plant, hairy and glaucous, with pros- 

 trate, angular, branched stems, 6-12 

 inches high, and succulent awl-shaped 

 leaves, each of which terminates with 

 a sharp prickle ; the flowers are soli- 

 tary, and have 3 bracts at the base of 

 each. The whole plant abounds in 

 alkali salt, whence its name. Sandy 

 sea-shore ;. common. Fl. July. 



Annual. 



Beta Maritima 

 (Sea-Beet) 



6. Salicornia (Glassworf) 



1. S. herbacea (Jointed Glasswort). Stem herbaceous, jointed ; 

 leaves o. A singular plant, 4-8 inches high, consisting of a number 

 of fleshy joints, each of which is fitted into the one below, entirely 

 destitute of leaves, and bearing between every two joints of the 

 terminal branches 3 inconspicuous green flowers. Salt marshes ; 

 abundant. Fl. August, September. Annual. 



2. S. radicans (Rooting Glasswort). Stems prostrate, rooting, 

 woody, and usually of a browner hue. Both species, on account 

 of the soda which they contain, were at one time used in the 

 manufacture of glass hence the name Glasswort. S. herbacea is 

 also made into a pickle. Sea-coasts; uncommon. Fl. August 

 September. Perennial. 



