77/ 1<: Sl'KUMA TOP 1 1 ) ' TA 



363 



particularly the stamens and carpels, arc typically numerous 

 and have not become stereotyped in number and arrangement as 

 is often the case among higher orders. The Ranales are regarded 

 by many as the most ancient of the dicotyledons and as the center 

 of origin for many of the higher groups. 



Rosales (Fig. 234). — This huge order includes the saxifrage, rose, 

 and legume families and their allies, comprising trees, shrubs, and 

 herbs. The flowers are for the most part conspicuous and 

 attractive, and furnish a large number of our ornamental plants. 

 Many important fruits and vegetables also find their place here. 



Fig. 235.— One of the Umbellales. Fig. 236.— One of the Rubiales. 

 Wild carrot {Daucus carota) , belonging Button-bush (Cephalanthus occiden- 

 to the family Umbelliferae. talis), belonging to the family Rubi- 



Kegularity and symmetry characterize the flowers of the lower 

 members but in the legume family (Leguminosae) the corolla 

 becomes markedly irregular, producing the butterfly-like or 

 papilionaceous type. 



U^nbeUales (Fig. 235).— This includes the dogwood family 

 (mostly shrubs) and the carrot family (mostly herbs). The 

 ovary in the group is inferior, the other floral parts being fused 

 with it or borne upon it. The flowers are very small and 

 arranged in compact, flat-topped clusters called umbels. This 



