HYGRQSQOPISM., 



285 



anthemum tripolium). On the approach of rain, or 

 when placed in water, these seed vessels gradually- 

 open like a star, closing again as they become dry. 

 Thunberg, remarking on this circumstance, says: — 

 " In this we see the wisdom of an All-wise Creator, 

 inasmuch as this plant, which is found in the most 

 arid plains of South Africa, keeps its seeds closely 



Fig. so. — Capsules of Mesembry- Fig. 51.— Capsule of 



anthemum tripolium closed. Mesembryanthemum tri- 



polium open. 



locked up in time of drought; but when the rainy 

 season comes, and the seeds can grow, it opens its 

 capsules, and lets fall the seeds, that they may be 

 dispersed abroad." These capsules have also been 

 known by the name of " Flowers of Crete." 

 The violent dehiscence of fruits is occasioned in 



