80 



FLOWERS. 



[SECTION 8. 



of the cyme in Hydrangea. They are likewise familiar in the Hobble-bush 

 and in Wild-Cranberry tree, Viburnum Oxycoccus ; where they form an 

 attractive setting to the cluster of small and comparatively inconspicuous 



perfect flowers which they adorn. In the Guelder Rose, or Snow-ball of 

 ornamental cultivation, all or most of the blossoms of this same shrub are 

 transformed into neutral flowers. 



234. The Essential Organs are likewise 

 of two kinds, placed one above or within 

 the other ; namely, first, the Stamens or 

 fertilizing organs, and second, the Pistils, 

 which are to be fertilized and bear the 

 seeds. 



235. A Stamen consists of two parts, 

 namely, the Filament or stalk (Fig. 219 a), 

 and the Antheb, (b). The latter is the only 

 essential part. It is a case, commonly with two lobes or cells, each opening 

 lengthwise by a slit, at the proper time, and discharging a powder or dust- 

 like substance, usually of a yellow color. This powder is the Pollen, or 

 fertilizing matter, to produce which is the office of the stamen. 



236. A Pistil (Fig. 220, 221) when complete, has three parts; Ovary, 

 Style, and Stigma. The Ovary, at base, is the hollow portion, which con- 

 tains one or more Ovules or rudimentary seeds. The Style is the tapering 



Flo. 218. Kflosplenus, namely, a full double flower of Rose. 

 Fiq. 219. A stamen : a, filament : b, anther, discharging pollen. 

 Fig. 220. A pistil; with ovary, a, half cut away, to show the contained ovules ; 

 b. style; c, stigma. 



