34 
PHAIUS GRANDIFOLIUS AND P. WALLICHI 
We have again recently experienced a difficulty in distinguishing between certain 
forms of these species and P. Blumei. Intermediate forms are met with and may just 
as well be referred to one species as to the other, and there are also others so distinct that 
they cannot be definitely referred to either one or the other although obviously belonging 
to the same group. 
It appears to us however that there is a method by means of which this question 
may probably be settled, and this consists in observation of the seed pods. 
It is known that these vary a great deal in form in the same genus, according 
to the species. For example the greatly elongated seed pod of Epidendrum nocturnum 
measures over 4 inches (rr centimétres), while that of E. nemorale, which is much more 
enlarged and forms a kind of regular hexagon in cross section, does not exceed an 
inch and a half (4 centimétres) in length. Among Cypripediums, Dendrobiums, Masde- 
vallias, and Odontoglossums all orchidists have doubtless noticed remarkable differences 
of a similar nature. 
It would therefore be interesting to study and to compare the seed pods of 
Phaius grandifolius, P. Blumet, P. Wallichi and various doubtful forms. Amateurs 
might very readily assist in this transaction, being, free to cut the capsule as soon as 
it has been well developed if they fear exhausting their plants. It would only be 
necessary before fertilising each flower to note its colour with great accuracy. 
We would also direct the attention of amateurs who are willing to make obser- 
vations on this genus to the great use of making a transverse section of the pod in 
the middle. A sketch of the whole does not show nearly so well the arrangement 
and development ot the angles which are nearly always in evidence, and which are 
formed by the sutures of the pods and sometimes by a kind of intermediate nerve. 
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