100 FLAX FAMILY. 



immense value of both plant and seed to us ! The 

 woody-fibre of its stem, is spun into thread, of which 

 linen, damask, cambric, lace, <fec. are made in endless 

 quantity and variety of quality. The seed produces a 

 valuable oil, and being mucilaginous, is much used for 

 fomentations, &c., for the sick and suffering. Who 

 can look on this slender little plant, but with grateful 

 admiration ! 



There are two other species with blue flowers, very 

 similar : as they are not common, I will advise you to 

 learn the character of the useful one, by growing the 

 Linseed (as its seed is called) in your garden, or a pot. 



The WHITE FLAX (L. Catharticum) which is to be 

 found on heaths, and in meadows, is from 2 6 inches 

 Tiigh only : with opposite oblong leaves on forked stems ; 

 flowers of 4 or 5 petals, drooping gracefully, before 

 opening. 



