68 CLASS-BOOK OF BOTANY. 
of a well-marked character. It appears to consist of foup 
ovaries, each containing a single ovule, but on close examina- 
tion is found to consist of two carpels, each deeply divided 
into two lobes. From the base of these four divisions Springs 
the style, which is hence called 
gynobasic.* In fruit, each of 
the lobes of the ovary becomes 
a small indehiscent nut, with a 
highly - polished pericarp, which 
makes it look quite like a naked 
seed, and the whole four separate 
quite readily from the receptacle. 
The seeds have a thin testa and 
a nearly straight embryo, without 
any albumen. 
wig! 193. Fruit of Porgot-mo- Some of our indigenous species 
not, in longitudinal section have large flowers, with the an- 
(mag.). thers protruded (exserted) from 
the corolla-tube. 
Compare the (so-called) Chatham Island Lily (Myosotidiwm 
nobile). This is a gigantic Forget-me-not, chiefly conspicuous 
by its large, ovate, perfectly glabrous leaves. As all the 
allies of this plant are protected by rough hairs, the want 
of this characteristic covering seems difficult to account for 
until we remember that the species is now found only in the 
Chatham Islands, where presumably there are few or no 
insects of a kind which would prey on its succulent leaves 
and stems. Probably it was at one time common throughout 
New Zealand, but became extinct in all parts except these 
outlying islands. The fruit is rather different from that of 
Myosotis, the receptacle being produced upwards between the 
lobes of the ovary into a fleshy column, and the 4 nuts being 
compressed and winged. 
The following plants, all of which possess gamopetalous corollas, 
will be found suitable for examination and class-exercises in connection 
with the preceding types :— a 
Jasmine (Jasminum), Privet (Ligustrum), Ash (Fraxinus), and Lilac 
(Syringa)t have 2 stamens and a 2-celled ovary. 
Parsonsia’ albiflora and P. rosea are common indigenous 
climbers, with very variable simple leaves, and panicles of 
white or pinkish flowers. The 5 anthers cohere in a remark- 
able manner ; in each, one cell containing pollen opens inwards 
against the style, while the other is empty and opens out- 
>. eee eee 
* Lit. from the base of the gynoecium. ie Shes # 
t This name is often popularly given to the Mock Orango (Philadel- 
pie coronaria), a plant quite distinct, and very different from the 
ilac. 
