PREFACE 



This paper contains a systematic catalogue of the native 

 and introduced plants of the vicinity of Columbia, Missouri, 

 and is the result of researches carried on during 18Q6-7 and 

 again from 1902 to the present time. 



While it deals chiefly with the systematic relationships 

 of this flora it is an endeavor, not only to list, but also to 

 describe as fully as seems necessary the higher orders — the 

 ferns and flowering plants of the locality. The lower orders 

 will be described, when studies upon them — which are being 

 made here — are completed. 



The paper is, however, not only a systematic catalogue 

 of native and introduced plants, it is also an ecological study 

 of them, and the attempt has been made to indicate the 

 social relationships of the flora ; to determine the external 

 factors of these associations ; and to ascertain the physio- 

 logical adaptations of the plants themselves to their environ- 

 ment. And, as an account of plant association and distribu- 

 tion, as well as of the composition of the flora, it claims a 

 certain finality. 



The method of study has been, essentially, the careful 

 collection of plants from typical localities ; the study of 

 their nature ; their relative abundance ; and the manner of 

 their association. The physical condition of these localities 

 has been investigated, and notes made of what changes are 

 going on, and how these affect the vegetation. 



With the exception of the determination of the plants, 

 all the work has been done in the field. 



It has been hitherto impossible, owing to lack of suita- 

 ble facilities, to submit the work to laboratory tests. This, 

 then, remains for the future. A suitable geological map has 

 been a desideratum during the main course of the investiga- 

 tions, but latterly has been provided. 



In connection with the field-work extensive collections 

 have been made. From these and for the purpose of the 

 study of the local flora an herbarium of Boone county has 

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