wager] 



SPRING WILD FLOWERS 



181 



for the short spadix upon which the blossoms are borne, and later 

 you will be interested also to find the fruits. The spathe frequently 

 appears before the leaves. 



In similar situations, and, indeed, often associated with the 

 skunk cabbage, you will doubtless find the Marsh-marigold. Its 

 light yellow blossoms are conspicuous, and, together with the 

 large leaves, and succulent growth of stem, present an appearance 



Fig. 7. The curious blossoms of the Dutchman's Breeches 



of real opulence. You will find this plant also in the low spots in 

 the meadows, especially if a spring be near to supply a constant 

 abundance of water. 



The preacher of the woodlands, the exhorter and admonisher, 

 is the Jack-in-the-Pulpit. Much like the spathe of the skunk 

 cabbage is that of the Jack, though erected upon a scape, so the 

 effect is far different. This plant, however, you will find even in 

 relatively dry soil. Everybody knows about the Jack-in-the- 

 Pulpit, so we need say nothing about him. 



