410 
one among numerous cougeiiers of Europe, Asia and Americ a, 
which is drawn to a considerable extent into medicinal use. 
The root and herb contain Valerianic acid and a peculiar 
tannic acid ; the root furnishes an esential oil, which again 
resolves itself into Yalerol(70 per cent.), Valereen, Barneol 
and Valerianic acid. The order of Valerianeas is not repre- 
sented by any native plant in Australia. 
Valerianella olitoria, Moench. 
Lamb’s Lettuce. Europe, North Africa, North and Middle 
Asia. A fair and early Salad-plant. It is an annual plant, 
and has several congeners in Europe and Asia. 
Veratrum album, E. 
Europe, North and Middle Asia, extending eastwards to 
Japan. It delights particularly in sub-alpine locali- 
ties. The root furnishes Veratrin, Jervin and Sabadillic 
acid. 
Veratrum viride, Alton. 
Canada and United States of North America. A near 
relative of the former plant. Its root has come recently 
into medicinal use. 
Vicia Ervilia, Willdenow. {Ervum Ervilia, L.) 
South Europe, North Africa, South-western Asia. An 
annual herb, praised as a valuable fodder-plant on dry cal- 
careous soil. 
Vicia Faba, E.* 
The Straight Beau. Orient, particularly on the Caspian 
Sea. This productive annual herb affords not only its seeds 
for table use, but provides also a particularly fattening 
stable food. The seeds contain about 33 per cent, 
starch. 
Vicia sativa, E.* (V. angustifoUa, Both.) 
The ordinary Vetch or Tare. Europe, North Africa, North 
and Middle Asia. One of the best of fodder-plants, but 
only of one or two years’ duration. Many of the other 
European and Asiatic species of Vicia are deserving our 
attention. 
