SHOOTS 7t 



have been given to every kind of variation, so that their 

 study is often not much more than learning the definitions 

 of names. However, if we seek to discover tlie life-rela- 

 tions of flowers we find that they may be stated very simply. 

 55. Life-relations. — The flower is to proiluce seed. It 

 must not only put itself into proper relation to do this, but 



Fig. 69. The rootstock of a rush (Junci/S), showing ho^v it advances LieneuLh the 

 ground aud sends above the surface a succession of branches. Tlie brealciug up 

 of such a rootstock only results in so many separate individuals.— After Covvles. 



tliere must also be some arrangement for putting the seeds 

 into proper conditions for developing new plants. In tlie 

 production of seed it is necessar^v for the flower to secure a 

 transfer of certain yellowish, powdery liodies whicli it pro- 

 duces, known as jjollen or 2}oIIen-grains. to tlie oi-gan in 

 which the seeds are produced, known as the ju'stil. This 

 transfer is called poUi nation. One of the important things, 

 therefore, in connection M'ith the flower, is for it to put 



