CI^ASSIPICATION. 51 



spgcies, in a large way, is tke unit in horticultural classifica- 

 tion. But the real unit has come to be and now is, in horticul- 

 tural systems, the variety. 



At this time we are not concerned with the question as to 

 the exact constitution of a variety. As our powers of analysis 

 increase we establish varieties along closer and closer lines and 

 the tendency is to make more varieties so that it is increasingly 

 more difficult to give a concise definition of the term. 



When the domestication of plants began, interests centered 

 around the species. There were no varieties nor groups within 

 the species. People but little advanced in horticulture still 

 give attention to the species and largely ignore the variety. But 

 as cultivation of plants has advanced and we have come to know 

 them better, groups within the species are more and more reeog- 

 ni^zed Smaller and smaller groups are now designated by 

 names. While at present the variety is the commonest sub- 

 division of the species yet as our ideas become more refined we 

 shall make more use of other groups, both superior io and 

 within ihe variety. 



In concluding, and repeating, it must be made perfectly clear 

 that, . notwithstanding our changing ideas of the variety, it is 

 yet the unit for the classificatory systems of horticulture. The 

 aim of a system of classification in horticulture is to express 

 the relations of varieties to each other. 



Why Classify ?^The chief practical benefits to be derived 

 from the proper assembling of forms into groups are: First, 

 That the names of varieties may be more readily determined. 

 Second, That synonyms may be avoided. Third, That similar 

 kinds may be better compared. Fourth, That we may better give 

 form and substance to our ideas .concerning the various plants. 



