Alelanthacec—-Bulbocodiunt. 535 
4, BULBOCODIUM. 
A genus resembling Crocus in general habit and aspect, 
but differing botanically in having a superior ovary and six 
stamens. The bulbs differ in the downy not fibrous nature of 
their coatings; the name is derived from oABés, a bulb, and 
Kwo.ov, a fleece, in allusion to this character. 
1. B. vérnwm (fig. 258).—Flowers vivolet-purple, appearing 
in early Spring before the leaves are developed, not more than 
2 or 3 inches high. Leaves ultimately 6 to 9 inches long. 
This is still a rare plant in gardens. It isa native of mountain 
pastures of Central Europe. 
5, COLCHICUM. 
A small genus of Autumn-flowering bulbous herbs allied to 
the preceding genus. Leaves not appearing till Spring, larger 
and broader than in Crécus or Bulbocddiwm. The ovary is 
underground, and is not visible until borne aloft by the 
growing leaves in Spring. The ancient Greek name. 
1. C. autumnale. Meadow Saffron.—A native of many 
parts of England, though nowhere very abundant. Flowers 
usnally pale purple, but there are variously-striped varieties 
and also a white variety in cultivation. This is sometimes 
called Autumn Crocus, from its resemblance; but besides its 
technical characters, the long flat leaves are sufficient to dis- 
tinguish it from that genus. It furnishes the drug of the same 
name. 
Orpen XIV.—PONTEDERACER. 
A small order of aquatic or semi-aquatic plants with broad 
leaves and solitary racemose or spicate flowers. Perianth funnel- 
shaped, circinate when withering. Anthers turned inwards. 
Fruit capsular, dehiscing loculicidally. 
1. PONTEDERIA. 
A small genus of pretty aquatic plants with creeping rhizomes 
and long-stalked oblong or cordate leaves, and one-leaved 
stems terminated by a raceme of blue flowers. Perianth some- 
what two-lipped. Stamens 6, the upper 3 often sterile. Ovary 
3-celled, two cells abortive and the other l-seeded. Named 
after an Italian botanist. Natives of America. 
