Wild Flowers as They Grow 



one and among British wild flowers is only repre- 

 sented by three species altogether, namely, the Wild 

 Mignonette [Reseda lutea) of our sketch, the White 

 Mignonette [Reseda alba) and the Dyer's Mignonette, 

 known also as " Weld," " Yellow Weed," or " Dyer's 

 Rocket " [Reseda luteola). This last has glossy, 

 undivided leaves, long pointed flower spikes, and is 

 taller and more erect than the plant we have been 

 considering. At one time it was largely used by 

 dyers, as its juices gave a beautiful yeUow colour. 

 Linnaeus observed that it follows the course of the 

 sun, turning to the east at dawn, to the south at 

 noonday, to the west at sunset, and due north at 

 midnight. It also has a great partiaUty for waste 

 places and limestone rocks. 



The name Reseda is from resedo — I appease, I 

 calm — because certain species were said to have a 

 sedative effect upon people. Lutea means golden- 

 yellow. 



'52 



