308 The Natural History of Selborne 



do not wonder, because they are kindred plants that we expect 

 should keep pace the one with the other ; but other congenerous 

 vegetables differ so widely in their time of flowering, that we cannot 

 but admire. I shall only instance at present in the crocus sativus, 

 the vernal and the autumnal crocus, which have such an affinity, 

 that the best botanists only make them varieties of the same genus, 

 of which there is only one species, not being able to discern any 

 difference in the corolla, or in the internal structure. Yet the 

 vernal crocus expands its flowers by the beginning of March at 

 farthest, and often in very rigorous weather ; and cannot be retarded 

 but by some violence offered ; while the autumnal (the saffron) 

 defies the influence of the spring and summer, and will not blow till 

 most plants begin to fade and run to seed. This circumstance is 

 one of the wonders of the creation, little noticed because a common 

 occurrence ; yet ought not to be overlooked on account of its being 

 familiar, since it would be as difficult to be explained as the most 

 stupendous phenomenon in nature. 



" Say, what impels, amidst surrounding snow 

 Congeal 'd, the crocus' flamy bud to glow ? 

 Say, what retards, amidst the summer's blaze, 

 Th' autumnal bulb, till pale, declining days ? 

 The GOD of SEASONS/ whose pervading power 

 Controls the sun, or sheds the fleecy shower : 

 He bids each flower his quickening word obey, 

 Or to each lingering bloom enjoins delay" 



