GNETALES 



365 



which separates the crown (shortened stem) from the rest of the body 

 (tap root) two enormously long parallel-veined leaves arise, which 



Figs. 405-407. — Welwitschia mirabilis: fig. 405, two views of the youngest speci- 

 men sent by Welwitsch to Hooker, showing the leaves in an entire condition; 

 figs. 406, 407, side and top views of an older specimen, showing laceration of the end 

 of the leaf; all one-half natural size. — After Hooker (i). 



extend upon the ground sometimes for 3 to 3 . 5 meters, and become 

 split into numerous ribbons (fig. 408). The single pair of opposite 



