IN EXTRA-TROPICAL COUNTRIES. 53 



to remain free from the attack of aphis. Chemical constituents : a 

 peculiar fixed oil, crystalline sinapin, the fatty sinapisin, myronic 

 acid and myrosin. 



Brassica oleracea, Linne.* 



An annual or biennial coast-plant, indigenous to various parts of 

 Europe. It is mentioned here with a view of showing that it might 

 be naturalized on any rocky and sandy sea-shores. From the wild 

 plant of the coast originated various kinds of cabbages, brocoli, 

 cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kail, kohlrabi, &c. Some regard the 

 fattening qualities of cabbages as superior to those of turnips, 

 particularly for stable-food during the autumnal season. The 

 gluten of cabbages on one acre has been estimated at 1,500 Ibs. 

 against 1,000 Ibs. of gluten obtainable from turnips. Other races of 

 this species are collectively represented by Brassica Bapa, L. (B. 

 campestris, L.), the wild Navew, yielding most of the varieties of 

 turnips, some with other cultivated forms transferred to us from 

 ancient times. Again, other varieties are comprehended within 

 Brassica Napus, L., such as the Swedish and Teltower turnips, 

 while the Bape-seed, so important for its oil (Colza) is also derived 

 from a form of B. Napus. The rape should be produced here as 

 an agrarian produce, giving a rapid return wherever it should 

 remain free of aphis. Ordinary Bape is a good admixture to sum- 

 mer-fodder. Important where bees are kept. The hardier turnips 

 could be produced on our highest Alps, as they are grown still 

 within the Arctic Circle, and, according to Sir J. Hooker, at a 

 height of fifteen thousand (15,000) feet in the Himalaya Moun- 

 tains. 



Bromus asper, Murray. 



Europe, North and Middle Asia. A good perennial fodder-grass 

 for wood-regions ; but, like Festuca gigantea, late in the season. 



Bromus erectus, Hudson. 



Europe, North Africa. Important as a perennial nutritious grass 

 for dry limestone regions ; much liked by cattle and sheep. 



Bromus ciliatus, Linne. 



North America. A perennial fattening grass resembling the Prairie 

 grass, growing all the winter, and also during summer, if any 

 drought is not too long continued, starting afresh after the least 

 rain (Dr. Curl). 



Bromus unioloides, Humboldt* (B. Schraderi, Kunth.) 



In Australia called the Prairie-grass. From Central America to 

 the sub-alpine zone of Northern Argentina. It has spread over 



