364 PLANTS OF NEW ZEALAND 



shapely bush ; but, as it grows older, the lower branches get 

 broken off, and the tree becomes gnarled and distorted. The 

 black buds are protected by a gummy secretion. The leaves 

 are full of translucent oil-glands, which give them a highly 

 characteristic appearance. These glands, though most con- 

 spicuous in the leaf, are found in other parts of the plant, and 

 indeed similar secreting spaces are found throughout the order. 

 Their function is apparently unknown. As the upper epidermis 

 is often lens-shaped over the glands, it is possible that they 

 may in some way or other be related to the light reaction of 

 the leaf. 



According to Colenso, a decoction, made from the leaves of 

 Myoporum, was used by the Maoris to protect the face and 

 hands from the bites of sand-flies and mosquitoes. 



Labiateae. 



THE THYME FAMILY. 



Distribution. A very large family, chiefly found in temperate regions. The 

 species are often aromatic, the leaves containing volatile fragrant oils. These leaves 

 are much used for flavourings or as ingredients in perfumes. Some of the species 

 are medicinal. The Lavender, Mint, Rosemary, Sage, Patchouli, Marjoram, 

 Penny-royal, Thyme, Basil, and Horehound, all belong to this family. Some 

 exotic species of Salvia are cultivated for the beauty of their flowers. The family 

 is represented in New Zealand by two unimportant genera. 



Key to the Genera. 



Calyx almost equal. Stamens equal- Mentha, p. 364. 



Calyx 2-lipped. Stamens in pairs- tScutellaria- 



tNot further described. 



Genus Mentha. 



Perennial, strongly aromatic herbs. Flowers in whorled cymes, often form- 

 ing dense heads. Calyx 5-toothed ; corolla 5-lobed or two-lipped. Stamens, 4. 

 Nuts smooth, dry. Several British species have been introduced into New 

 Zealand. (Name from the Greek). 1 sp. 



