CLASS DIDYNAMIA. 
219 
or Virgin’s bower, is a beautiful climbing plant, which supports 
itself by winding its petioles or leaf-bearing stems around other 
plants : the flowers are white and clustered in corymbs ; the seed 
has a long silk-like fringe which gives it a fine appearance after 
the blossoms have faded. This plant contains many species, and 
is cultivated both in this country and in Europe. 
The Anemone is a beautiful native flower ; by cultivation its 
petals multiply as in the Rose. 
The Ranunculus contains many species: it belongs to the same 
natural family as the Anemone ; but as you will find these plants 
very common, and are now able to analyze them, we will not at 
this time devote attention to them. 
The Hellebore, ( flelleborus ,) is an exotic much spoken of 
by classical writers. Hippocrates one of the most ancient phy- 
sicians remaiks upon its qualities : it grew about Mount Olym- 
pus, and was regarded as a very poisonous plant. 
The Magnolia* and Tulip tree are among the most splendid 
trees of North America ; they are said also to be common to 
China. The Magnolia grandiflora extends from . South Caroli- 
na to the isthmus of Darien. In some cases these trees rise 
to the height of 90 feet before sending off any considerable 
branches ; the spreading top is then clothed with deep green ob- 
long, oval leaves like a Laurel ; these are at most seasons enliv- 
ened by large and fragrant white flowers. 
The class Polyandria, though not important for its fruits, con- 
's tains some valuable medicinal plants, besides opium and tea 
which we have noticed. 
LECTURE XXXII. 
CLASS XIII DIDYNAMIA, AND XIV TETR ADYNAMIA. 
The two classes which are to afford subjects for our present 
observations, are founded upon the number and relative length 
of the stamens. 
In distinguishing their orders the number of styles is not regar- 
ded, but new circumstances of distinction are introduced, viz: 
t he seeds being enclosed in a capsule, or destitute of any such 
covering ; and the comparative length of pods. 
* Named in honour of Magnol, a distinguished botanist. 
Anemone — Ranunculus — Hellebore — Magnolia. 
The two classes now to be considered — on what founded — Orders how 
distinguished. 
