CURRANTS AND GOOSEBERRIES 87 



lined for currants are the entry here of calyx, 

 markings, and bloom, for description. The 

 calyx is more prominent on gooseberries 

 than on currants, and occasionally offers 

 points of distinction of some value. The sur- 

 face of the gooseberry, too, is usually marked 

 with more or less distinct meridian lines ; and 

 these ought always to be carefully noted, 

 and, where expedient, entered in the descrip- 

 tion. The bloom on the gooseberry is often 

 important and characteristic. Furthermore, 

 certain varieties, especially natives derived 

 from Ribes cynosbati, are apt to be thorny on 

 the surface. Since this takes the place of 

 bloom in such instances, it will be convenient, 

 though illogical, to enter the description of 

 the surface generally under the head of 

 bloom. 



