XXVII. POETULACE^E. 



259 



Caryophyllece mostly inhabit the extra-tropical regions of the northern hemisphere, extending to the 

 Arctic regions and to the tops of the highest Alps. They are rarer in the southern hemisphere, and 

 still more so in the tropics, where they are almost confined to the mountains. 



Some Caryophylledi possess refreshing and slightly demulcent properties, but they have fallen into 

 disuse. Such are Holosteum umbellatum, Cerastium arvense, Stellaria Ilolostea and media ; the latter, 

 which grows everywhere, is the common Chickweed whose seeds form the food for many cage-birds. 

 The seeds of Spergula were formerly recommended for consumption. The root of Saponaria officinalis, 

 an indigenous species, contains a gum, a resin, and a peculiar matter which froths in water like soap, 

 whence it has been placed among demulcent and depurative medicines ; some doctors even substitute it 

 for Sarsaparilla in cases of syphilis. The White Lychnis (Melandrium dioicum) and Lychnis chalcedonica 

 are also used as demulcents. Silene Otites, a bitter and astringent herb, is prescribed for hydrophobia. 

 The root of Silene virgimca is used as an anthelminthic in North America. Pinks, and especially Dian- 

 tJms Caryophyllus, have sweet-scented petals, with which. chemists prepare a syrup and a distilled water. 

 The Rose Campion (Lychnis Gitliago) is common amongst corn : its aeeds are acrid, and render bread 

 poisonous when mixed with the flour in too great quantities. 



XXVII. PORTULACE^, Jussieu. 



Portulaca. 

 Flower (mag.). 



Portulaca oleracea. 



Portulaca. 

 Style and stigmas (mag.). 



Portulaca. 

 Stamens (mag.). 



Portulaca. 

 Flower cut vertically (mng.). 



Portulaca. 

 Fruit, entire ami dehiscent. 



Portulaca, 

 Seed, entire and cut vertically (mag.). 



Portulaca. 

 Flower-bud (mag.). 



s 2 



