Ch. XXII] CLASSES AND ORDERS. 141 
Ciass XII. Potyanpria, more than fen stamens inserted on 
the receptacle. 
591. In this class we find the sta- 
mens separate from the calyx, und at- 
tached to the receptacle or top of the 
flower stem. The number of stamens 
in this class varies from ten to some 
hundreds. This class does not, like the 
one we have last examined, contain 
many delicious fruits, but abounds in 
poisonous and active vegetables. The 
mode of the insertion of the stamens 
is to be regarded in considering the 
wholesome qualities of plants; it is 
asserted that no plant with the stamens 
on the calyx is poisonous; we know 
that many with the stamens upon the 
receptacle are so. 
592. Fig. 83 represents, at a, a flower of the Clematis with 
its many stamens growing on the receptacle; b shows the re- 
ceptacle with numerous short styles attached to it, c and d re- 
pecsent a stamen and petal which were inserted on the receptacle 
elow the styles. On account of its many styles, the clematis is 
placed in the 13th order. 
Orpver 1. Monoeynta, one pistil. 
593. We find here some flowers of a curious appearance, as 
the Mandrake, or May-apple. This plant is common in moist, 
shady places, where you may often see several growing toge- 
ther; each stem supports a large white flower and two large 
peltate palmate leaves ; the fruit is yellow. and eaten by many 
as a delicacy ; the root is used in medicine. 
594. The Side-saddle flower (Sarracenia) is a very curious 
and elegant plant; it has large leaves proceeding directly from the 
root. These leaves form a kind of cup, capable of containing a gill 
or more of water, with which liquid they are usually filled. The 
stem is of that kind called a scape, growing to the height of 
one or two feet, bearing a single large purple flower. This plant 
is found in swamps; its common name, Side-saddle flower, is 
given on account of the form of its leaf. It is sometimes call- 
591. What remarks are made respecting Class Polyandria ? 
592. Describe Fig. 83. 
593. What is said of the Mandrake or May-apple? 
994, Describe the side-saddle flower 
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