GXETALES 



115 



and become split into numerous ribbons (Fig. 84). This single 

 pair of opposite leaves succeeds the cotyledons, and is the only 

 pair of foliage leaves produced, growing continually at the base, 



where it is protected by the groove. These leaves last through 

 the lifetime of the plant, which is said to reach more than a hun- 

 dred years. 



The species of Gnetum are either small trees or woody climb- 



