44 PASTORAL AND AGRICULTURAL BOTANY 



2. Study and draw the aril and sectioned seeds of the yew shrub previously 

 preserved in alcohol. 



3. Study and draw branches, berries, etc., of the red cedar (Juniperus virginiana) 

 similarly preserved. 



4. Taxin obtained by purchase from the analytical chemist, is a white, loose 

 amorphous powder, very bitter, slowly soluble in water, readily in alcohol and ether, 

 fusible to a yellow resin by gentle heat, soluble in dilute acids. It should be kept as a 

 stock supply for the following tests which should be performed by each member of 

 the class. Precipitate by caustic alkalis and tincture of iodine. Test with concen- 

 trated sulphuric acid which produces a purplish-violet color. This color can be de- 

 colorized with water. 



