CELERY-LEAVED CROWFOOT. 



the appellation of Snake's-head Meadow. Into this genus was 

 the Crown Imperial admitted. It was brought from Persia in 

 1596. It is very ornamental. The bright yellow flowers hang 

 in an inverted position, the petals curling outwards and up- 

 wards, each flower closely resembling a turban. The flowers are 

 studded round the stem, which is sometimes four feet high, 

 and are surmounted by a cluster of rich green leaves. The 

 general appearance of the plant in bloom might well .suggest 

 to Cowper to write, — 



" The Lily's height bespoke command, 

 A fair Imperial Flower ; 

 She seemed designed for Flora's hand. 

 The sceptre of her power." 



In each flower of the Crown Imperial has been observed 

 several drops of fluid, which adhere to the bottom of the 

 corolla until it is faded. Then the pedicles of the flowers raise 

 themselves for the seeds to ripen. We are gravely told that 

 " the performances of the six stamina are very curious. Now 

 all are remote from the pistil ; anon three approach at once 

 to do it homage ; then the other three draw near for the same 

 loyal purpose, when the former have retired ! ! " 



CELERY-LEAVED CROWFOOT {Ranunculus 

 sceleratus). — INGRATITUDE. 



The specific name of this plant, which is usually included 

 under the common term " Buttercups," marks its pernicious 

 properties. It is one of the most acrid of the genus, quickly 

 causing great inflammation. It is used among other herbs, 



64 



