34 WONDERS OF PLANT LIFE 



so, the guests are certainly exceeding their duties 

 in driving away the helpful bees. 



Certain plants are seen to develop nectaries in 

 other parts than the flowers. In the common 

 Laurel these occur at the bases of the leaves on 

 the under side. The Cherry, as well as other allied 

 species, produces nectaries in the form of small 

 glandular swellings on the leaf-stalks. In addi- 

 tion, it is found that the Broad Bean bears nec- 

 taries on its stipules. The actual purpose served 

 by these processes has long been the subject of a 

 great deal of speculation. Some have held that 

 they must be regarded as curious protective 

 devices. It is argued that creeping insects bent 

 on plundering the store of good things to be 

 found in the flower are turned aside from their 

 nefarious purpose when they discover the glands 

 secreting nectar. Here is a supply of honey 

 easily secured, so why should the little creatures 

 trouble to go on to the blossom at all ? In the 

 case of the Scabrous Balsam, Kerner has observed 

 that the drops of honey provided at the base of 

 every leaf undoubtedly prevent a large number 

 of wingless creatures from getting to the pollen. 

 But it seems that the matter may be pushed to a 

 still more interesting conclusion. These extra- 

 floral nectaries will, of course, attract large num- 



