STUDIES OF PLANT LIFE 



placed on long footstalks; each leaf is divided into three 

 leaflets, which are again twice or thrice lobed and un- 

 equally notched; the upper surface is smooth and of a dark 

 rich green, the under pale and whitish. As the flowers fade 

 the husky hollow seed pods become erect ; the seeds are black 

 and shining. 



The Wild Columbine is perennial and very easily culti- 

 vated. Its blossoms are eagerly sought out by the bees and 

 humming-birds. On sunny days you may be sure to see the 

 latter hovering over the bright drooping bells, extracting 

 the rich nectar with which they are so bountifully supplied. 

 Those who care for bees and love humming-birds should 

 plant the graceful red-flowered Columbine in their garden 

 borders. Indeed, this elegant ornamental species should 

 find a place in every garden. I have seen a striking effect 

 produced by a number of these flowers grown together. 



In its wild state it is often found growing among rocks 

 and surface stones, where it insinuates its roots into the 

 clefts and hollows that are filled with rich vegetable mould; 

 and thus, being often seen adorning the sterile rocks with 

 its bright crown of waving blossoms, it has obtained the 

 name of Rock Columbine. 



PAINTED CUP SCARLET CUP Castilleia coccinea ( Spreng. ) . 



(PLATE VII.) 



" Scarlet tufts 



Are glowing in the green like flakes of fire ; 

 The wanderers of the prairie know them well, 

 And call that brilliant flower the Painted Cup." 



Bryant. 



This splendidly-colored plant is the glory and ornament 

 of the plain-lands of Canada. The whole plant is a glow 

 of scarlet, varying from pale flame-color to the most vivid 



4 o 



