4 
THE AMERICAN BOTANIST. 
botanical resort is to be drained and put under the plow. Such a 
course means the certain destruction of the plants in that particu- 
lar place. 
But civilization, in itself an unavoidable and excusable 
agent, is responsible for a destructive force equally potent. It is 
generally admitted that the flora of Europe is of more recent or- 
igin; newer and therefore more highly developed and capable of 
adaptability to a greater extent, than its more beautiful American 
rival. From the time of the discovery of America and the influx 
of the colonists, the importation of grains and vegetable seeds 
from Europe has been the means of transplanting into the Ameri- 
can soil, many new species of European plants, and, unfortu- 
nately, many of its most obnoxious weeds as well. Because of 
their greater adaptability, the plants thus introduced from Europe, 
from small beginnings, have spread until some of them are now 
numbered among the most widely diffused plants in the United 
States. The dandelion and shepherd's purse, both of European 
introduction, are typical examples. What native plant possesses 
means of seed distribution equal to that of the dandelion? Or 
what native weed, if there be such, can maintain an existence in 
field and street, upon deserted ash heap, or by the trodden wayside, 
like the sturdy shepherd's purse. The Canada thistle, the 
troublesome docks, the Jamestown weed, and many others of for- 
eign origin, survive because of their superior adaptability to their 
environment. And yet there would be no possible conflict, if these 
plants did not outgrow the limits of civilization. Like the En- 
glish sparrow, in its encroachments upon our native birds, these 
plants do not confine themselves to the city and town, but have 
found their way into the fields and woodlands ; yes, even into the 
most secluded haunt, daring to grow side by side with the delicate 
orchid, thriving, spreading, increasing until the native plants are 
- suppressed and die. 
Although the destruction due to these elements is, in a great 
measure, unavoidable, there still remains a destructive agent, 
which can and should be avoided, and is therefore inexcusable. I 
refer to the ruthless destruction of our choicest American beauties 
