70 PACIFIC STATES FLORAL CONGRESS. 



types of vegetation, we find indeed the same alternation of generations, 

 but the importance of the spore-bearing phase continually increases, 

 while the prothallium, on which the sex organs are developed, becomes 

 less and less evident. 



Of the multitude of mosses of this coast we may select a few general 

 types, which will represent the great majority of our Bryophytes. First, 

 there is the Sphagnum, or swamp moss. It is a pale, soft, spongy 

 variety, growing in wet meadows, and forming beds of peat as it sinks 

 and dies. This moss is used extensively by florists, to fill wire frames 

 which are to serve as the foundation of floral designs, and also to 

 wrap around the roots of plants to keep them moist and fresh. It 

 does not grow extensively in this state, but thrives in cool and moist 

 climates. 



Second, the genus Hypnum, and its allies. In texture, many of 

 the Hypnese are quite tough and enduring, contrasting strongly with 

 the Sphagnacea^ just described. The Hypnese are the mosses that we 

 commonly find on trees, being often very abundant near the ground, 

 and forming strong, green mats, which creep upward to a considerable 

 height. They are also found on stones and cool banks. 



Lastly, the Bryeae, consisting of the genus Bryum and its allies. 

 These include the vast majority of mosses, and are found abundantly 

 on the ground or on rocks, especially where the ground is damp and 

 cold. The leaves are small, the stems often creeping, with rhizoids 

 along the whole length. 



In conclusion, it should be stated that the humblest mosses act 

 as soil makers. Living upon the earth, they return to the soil more 

 than they take away, and prepare the ground for a higher class of 

 vegetation. 



In our brief survey of the lowly vegetable organisms which inhabit 

 our coast, we have been impressed with their quiet beauty. Doubtless 

 they have an important practical part in the economy of nature which 

 we can not, with our present knowledge, fully understand. 



However, since we cultivate flowers chiefly for their beauty, we 

 an, at least, appreciate the added charm which lichens and mosses 

 give to nature's more rugged features, and we will learn to declare, 

 Jike their Maker, that they are all "very good." 



Mills College, California. 



