Chapter II: Introduction (2)

The flower is small; its spur rather long, the two side-petals bearded, and the color of the corolla pale violet, running into white at the base of the petals, the lower one being marked with fine lines of dark Violet; the tips of the stamens are orange; the 5-parted calyx light green. The flowers are set on slender pale green stems, and rise from the angles of the leaves.

This charming and profusely flowering Violet is invidiously nicknamed “Dog” by the English, because it is scentless.

*Common Blue Violet.* _Viola palmata, var. cucullata._
*Meadow Violet.*

Found in meadows and roadsides, among the grass everywhere, in May and June.

The leaf and flower stems vary in height from 3 to 6 or 7 inches.

The large heart-shaped leaf (1 or 2 inches wide at the base) is strongly ribbed, minutely hairy, and cut in rounded scallops along its margin; full green in color. The stem is half-round, and grooved on its flat side.

The 5 petals and the spur of the flower are variable in color from dark to light (rarely white), from blue- to red-violet; the bearded side-petals and the lower petal are white at the base. The flower-stem is long, slender and smooth.

“The flower-stems are the length of the leaf-stems usually, or a little shorter, and the blossoms appear in the midst of the rich green foliage. In the new growths the lower edges of the leaves at the base are rolled inwards.

“This violet was taken from N. America to England in 1762, and in some English botanies is called _V. obliqua_.”--Sir D. Wooster.

*Sand Violet.* _Viola pedata._
*Bird-Foot Violet.*

Found in May (later than the Meadow Violet) on dry banks and gravelly soil.

The leaves and flowers rise from the root on slender stems.

The leaf is deeply divided into 3 or 5 narrow and long parts, which are sometimes again cleft into 2 or 3 segments; the middle parts are notched by 2 or 3 rounding scallops, the side parts being shorter, with taper-pointed tips; the ribs show obscurely, the texture is thickish, and the surface is dull above and shining underneath; the color is a dull green. The leaves, on half-rounding stems, that are a darker-hued green than the leaves, spread widely. The early spring leaves are less often divided.

This is the largest of the Violet flowers, with 5 flat petals, the upper ones curling backwards on the stem, and a small, very flat spur; the texture is fine and close, and the color varies from deep red-violet to pale lavender, with a dash of white at the base of the lower petals, just beneath the green-tipped pistil, and dry tawny-orange stamens; the 5-parted calyx is pale green. The flowers are set on large shining, smooth stems, which bear a little pair of wings near the ground.

The Bird-Foot Violet flower does not droop, or nod, but holds itself out at an angle almost parallel with the stem; its bud shows white, and generally the paler lavender tints prevail in the full-blown flowers. Many folk-names are given this plant, which grows in little clumps and sometimes thickly spreads all over a favorably located sand-barren,--it is often found in burnt-over fields, and stump-lots. Its flowering season is not so long as many others of its family and as observed, it seldom blooms again in the autumn.

PINK FAMILY.

CARYOPHYLLACEÆ.

*Field Chickweed.* _Cerastium arvense._

Found in May on dry and sandy banks.

The stalk branches a little for the flowers, and varies in height from 6 to 10 inches; it is rough with hairs, and green.

The small, grass-like leaves are rough-hairy, and green; they are set in pairs, joined about the stalk in a marked cup-like socket; the pairs occur at right angles to each other.

The small flowers commonly have 5 petals apiece, but sometimes the number is scamped and they are contented with 4 instead; each petal is so deeply cleft as to give the appearance of being quite divided; the texture is thin enough to show the veins, the outer surface is glossy, and the color is white; the calyx has as many sharp-pointed divisions as there are petals, and is green; the 10 stamens are pale straw-color. The flowers form little groups on long stems which spring from the angles of the leaves in pairs.

After the manner of the Pinks this nice little plant sets a blossom between the fork of the main stems.

*Common Chickweed.* _Stellaria media._

Blossoming around dwellings in spring, summer, and autumn.

Its weak-fibred stem, lopping over the ground, is green, and smooth, with a barely visible little line of hairs down one side.

The small oval leaves have entire edges, and a smooth surface; they grow in pairs and are of a full green color.

The 5 white petals of the small flower are so deeply notched as to look like 10 very narrow ones; they are shorter than the 5 green calyx divisions; the flowers grow singly on short foot-stems, from the leaf-angles.

The Chickweed is a common plant of the dooryard, but without the usual obnoxious habits of a “weed,--” it is unobtrusive in demeanor, and, the roots having but a slight hold on the ground, is easily removed where undesired. It is a natural weather-glass, and can be trusted not to open its starry eye when rain threatens. The “Hen’s Inheritance” is an English folk-name for this plant.

*Long-Leaved Stitchwort.* _Stellaria longifolia._

Found blossoming in June, in the tall grasses of wet meadows.

This almost thread-like and weak-fibred stalk varies from 6 to 15 inches in height, and is branching and leafy, almost square, with somewhat roughened angles, and pale green color.

The long grass-like leaves are very taper-pointed at each end, thin, and smooth, and in color full green, paler underneath; they are set upon the stalk in pairs, at long intervals.

The flower is small; its 5 petals cleft so deeply as to give the appearance of double the number, very fine and delicate in texture, and pure white, the 5-parted spreading calyx being green, while the 10 silky thread-like stamens are white. The flowers, on long, slight stems, spring singly from the angles of the leaves.

A few-flowered fragile plant, with its tiny star-flowers and sparse flat leafage, this Stitchwort loves to grow among rank sedges and swamp grasses, from whose sturdy rectitude it may claim support and protection.

*Sand Spurrey.* _Buda rubra._

Found on sandy barrens in blossom during June.

This very modest little plant is seldom more than 2 or 3 inches high, with its single, round, slender, and smooth stalk of a light green color, with red rings at the leaf-joints.

The small narrow leaf is entire, flat, a trifle thick in texture, and dusty green in color. The leaves occur in pairs that box the compass around the stalk in little groups, and sit very close together; a dry sheath encircles the stalk at their junction.

The very small flower has 5 scoop-shaped petals, fine in quality, and pale lilac inclining to pink in color, and several pale yellow stamens; its 5 calyx-parts are sometimes longer than its petals and are hairy, and gray-green, with pinkish tips. Two or three flowers occur on the top of the stalk.

Only one flower opens at a time, but the calyx splits apart and shows the color of the petals a day before the bud opens. This smallest of the Pinks grows in such sociable crowds in sandy spots as to form a thick carpet, very pretty to discover when its close green is starred with its tiny flowers.

*Bouncing Bet.* _Saponaria officinalis._

Found on dry soil, by the wayside and in the fields, blossoming in July through September.

The large leafy stalk, which grows from 1 to 2 feet high, is stout, slightly rough, and noticeably enlarged at the joints. Its color is green, or more often a dark crimson.

The oval leaf, tapering at the tip, clasps the stalk at the foot; it is 3-ribbed and the middle-rib being a little short the blade is fulled to it on either side; it has a smooth surface, and is of a thick texture; the color is a grayish-green (usually dusty). The leaves are opposite in growth.

The flower is large, about 1 inch across, with 5 petals, broad and slightly notched at the top, and extended down into a narrow stem-like base, which is confined within the long cylindrical calyx; at the spread of the broad part of the petal are two little thread-like fringes. The color runs from white to pink, the 10 stamens are pale yellow, and the long, 5-notched calyx is a pale yellowish-green. The pistil divides at the tip into two curling spires.

Stocky and sturdy in growth, hearty and wholesome in nature, Bouncing Bet grows in great communities along the waysides, and railroad embankments; it is a little ragged in attire, owing to the habit the flowers have of drying up in the calyx. It looks its best under a gray sky.

*Night-Flowering Campion.* _Silene noctiflora._
*Gentlemen’s Hats (N. H.).*

Found along roadside thickets in July and August.

The sparingly leafy stalk branches in an angular fashion, and grows from 1 to 3 feet high; although stout, the branches are slender; it is round, hairy, and sticky to the touch; light green.

The large leaves are sometimes 3 inches long; near the foot they are oval in shape with a wavy edge, above they are long and narrow; the margins are entire, the surface hairy and gummy to the touch; green. They completely clasp the stalk and are united in pairs, the pairs being set at right angles to each other.

The 5 petals of the flower are deeply cleft; where they spread from the deep tube-shaped calyx, each is provided with a pair of little notched tags, which form a pretty crown about the throat of the flower; the texture of the corolla is thin and fine, and the color is pale pink, or white just tinted with rose; the pale, yellow-green calyx is 5-parted and elegantly ornamented with 10 branching ribs, or veins, of a darker color; it is sticky and hairy. The flowers are set on short stems in the angles of the leaves, in pairs usually, while a single blossom sits on a short stem, in the fork of the branches.

After blossoming the seed-box changes its shape to round, and becomes large, the calyx-tips folding together over its top, and the green pattern of the ribs showing more plainly. There is a faint sweet perfume about the flowers which may be only discovered at twilight or in a gray morning, for this is a night-blooming plant.

*Deptford Pink.* _Dianthus Armeria._
*Mountain Pink.*

Found from July till frost-time, in upland fields and pastures.

The slender, angular and jointed stalk is from 8 to 12 inches in height, occasionally branching, round, smooth and shining. In color dark green.

The leaf is long and narrow, with a strong midrib, an entire margin, thin, tough texture, and a downy surface; in color it is rather a dark and cool green. The leaves, as with all the pinks, clasp the stalk in pairs with a noticeable joint; the pairs occur at right angles to each other.

The 5 petals of the small flower are oblong with finely notched tips; they spread widely, and are of a fine smooth texture, and a deep rose-pink color, dotted with pale pink specks; the green calyx is tubular, 5-parted, and downy, and is enfolded by 4 narrow green bracts. The flowers occur in pairs, from the angles of the leaves, on short leafy stems.

Sometimes, but not often, two flowers are borne on the same stem; it has been observed that the flower-stems are of about equal length with the curving leaves from which they spring. The plant grows in charming jerks and slants, and like all its kin is neatly finished at the joints. An October walk seldom fails to discover a few of these bright-hued Pinks amidst the dying meadow grasses and bare growths of summer; if the seeds are then gathered and spring-sown in the home garden this hardy little plant will consent to cultivation.

ST. JOHN’S-WORT FAMILY.

HYPERICACEÆ.

*Large St. John’s-Wort.* _Hypericum perforatum._
*Common St. John’s-Wort.*

Found from June to September, in broad sunlight or in shade, growing in dry or moist soil.

The branching, leafy stalk, 1 or 2 feet high, rather slender and smooth, is green in color.

The leaves are usually oblong, with a tapering point, but do not rigorously conform to any model; with entire margins and a thin texture, which if held to the light is seen to be perforated by tiny punctures. The color is a full green, and they are set on the stalk in pairs, the pairs being placed at right angles to each other.

The flower is sometimes ¾ of an inch in width, but more often smaller; the 5 petals are finely notched at the tip and along one side, their color is a strong yellow turning in maturity to tawny; the calyx is 5-parted and a light yellow-green modulating between the petal and leaf colors; the many yellow stamens radiate from the center. The flowers are set in leafy terminal groups.

This cheery neighbor to the Daisy and Yarrow, though spruce and pretty when freshly adorned with bloom, is, it must be confessed, a sad slattern, for it does not shed its withered petals but holds them, ragged and unkempt, among the newly opened flowers during the long season of its blossoming. The yellow of the unopened bud is of a noticeably fine quality.

*Lesser St. John’s-Wort.* _Hypericum maculatum._

Found in damp, weedy thickets and fields, during July and August.

The slender, very round, fine-fibred stalk, from 12 to 18 inches high, is noticeably erect in gesture, and bears short angular branches. Its green is often tinged with a ruddy color.

The leaf is oblong, with an entire margin, and smooth, fine texture; the perforations are not conspicuous, and the color is a full green. The arrangement is in pairs.

The 5 petals of the small flower are sharp-pointed, thin, and yellow, faintly marked with black lines which show more strongly on the outside than on the inside of the corolla; the calyx is greenish and 5-parted. The flowers, on short stems, form terminal groups.

This little plant’s habits are in marked contrast to its larger brother John, for it is as tidy in rolling up into tiny bundles its faded petals, as the other is careless of appearances. Though its flower is less conspicuous, the reward, when the plant matures, more than compensates, for as early as mid-July the upper surface of the leaves take on a beautiful crimson flush that mingles with the green of the underside, while the stalk becomes a slender wand of scarlet.

MALLOW FAMILY.

MALVACEÆ.

*Common Mallow.* _Malva rotundifolia._
*Cheeses.*

Found from August till frost-time around dwellings and along waysides.

The lopping, large, round stalk, with many leaves, lies low upon the ground; it is slightly hairy, and green.

The large, rounding leaf is heart-shaped at the base, and is slightly lobed; the margin is notched with small round scallops, the ribs radiate from the base, and the surface is soft to the touch. The leaves, on their long, and short, rough stems (from 1 to 12 inches in length), are placed alternately. The color is a dark green.

The flower has a spreading bell-shaped corolla cut into 5 long points, with notched tips; it is in color a translucent pinky-white, faintly lined with pink. The calyx is 5-parted, and green; just beneath the calyx occur 3 line-like bracts. The flowers, on their slender foot-stems, grow from the angles of the leaves all along the stems, 3 or 4 grouped together.

The seed of this Mallow endears the plant to children by whom it is eaten under the name of “Cheeses”; it is pretty to look at, being round, and light green, and enfolded by the 5 green tips of its calyx-cup.

“Sitting down when school was o’er
Upon the threshold of the door,
Picking from mallows, sport to please,
The crumpled seed we call’d the cheese.”

--_Clare._

GERANIUM FAMILY.

GERANIACEÆ.

*Cranesbill.* _Geranium maculatum._
*Wild Geranium.*

Found in lush grass, or light shade, in fields and roadside banks, during May and June.

The stalk, single at first, but presently parting into twice-forking branches, is from 10 to 18 inches in height, and leafy above the branches; its surface is hairy, and color yellow-green.

The large leaf is 3- to 5-times divided with sharp-pointed tips, an irregularly toothed margin, distinctly showing ribs, hairy surface; yellowish-green in color. The leaves are set on stems in pairs, or near the flowers are placed close together and immediately upon the stalk. The size is variable, but often quite large.

The flower has 5 rounded petals that are somewhat bearded at the base; their texture is so fine it plainly shows the veins, the surface is very smooth, their edges slightly curve, and the color is a delicate pinkish-lavender; the calyx with its 5 needle-pointed tips is hairy, and light green; the 10 long stamens are spreading, and the pistil is 5-parted. The flowers, on short stems, are set in pairs, or in a loose, leafy terminal group.

At the joints of the stems are a pair of leaves and several tiny leafkins. Though set in occasional pairs the blossoms open one at a time. It is noticeable that the flowers which open in cool weather, or in a shady place, are almost crimson in hue, the color being always very variable. The leafage is especially brilliant in autumn, and sometimes as early as July a leaf will be found turned to a vivid scarlet-red. The curious and decorative seed-vessel gives the plant its fantastic folk-name.

*Herb Robert.* _Geranium Robertianum._

Found on moist and shaded banks; in chief profusion of bloom from June to November, though stray flowers may be found in every month of the year save February.

The widely branching, leafy stalk, from 3 to 18 or more inches in height, is very slender and apparently weak-fibred, and covered with soft whitish hairs; it is red or crimson, green only when newly grown.

The leaf is thrice (and sometimes again) divided, with a triangular spread to its shape; the margin is cut into little rounded notches, each with a pointed tip; it is very thin in texture, and downy with hairs; a strong vigorous green in color. The leaves are on long slender stems, in pairs and groups.

The small urn-shaped flower has 5 wedge-shaped petals, of a delicate thin texture, and a violet-tinted rose color, rather deep in hue, and marked with paler lines; the pistil is rose color, the 10 stamens brownish. The 5 divisions of the hairy calyx hug the petals closely, and turn their sharp little tips out under their curve; it is pale, with green veins and margins. The flowers, on their slender stems, are set in pairs, terminally and along the stalk,--but one of the pair comes into bloom at once usually.

The stalk, with all its remarkable vitality, is weak at the root, and the plant is forced to lie somewhat upon the ground or rest against its sturdier neighbors. It takes kindly to indoor potting, and will bloom freely through the winter if kept in a cool place.

*Ladies’ Sorrel.* _Oxalis corniculata, var. stricta._
*Yellow Wood Sorrel.*
*Sheep Sorrel.*

Found in gardens and moist woodlands from June to October.

The branching, leafy stalk, about 6 or 8 inches in height, is smooth, silky with hairs when newly grown, and a clear, light green color.

The leaf is compound, with 3 broad, short, heart-shaped leaflets, that are somewhat folded on the midrib, and are thin, delicate, smooth; a clear green, paler underneath. The leaves, on their long slender stems, are alternately arranged.

The 5 spreading petals of the small flower are delicately thin, and show the veins faintly; they are a bright clean yellow, while the 5-parted shallow calyx is green; the 5 long and 5 short stamens which are joined together at the base are yellow. The flowers are arranged in a group of 2 to 6 on a long, light green stem, that springs from the angle of the leaf-stem and is generally of the same length.

Bud, blossom, and seed-pod may often be seen together on this plant, as is common to such a prolonged season of bloom. The pod is 5-sided, somewhat fuzzy with down, and bright green. Though hard to uproot, as the gardener knows, because of its underground runners, the plant is weak and apt to flop. The leaflets close entirely upon their midribs at night; their juice is slightly sour, and relished by children, who detect in its acid taste a sufficient resemblance to the Red Sorrel (_R. acetosa_) to warrant the folk-name given this oxalis.

*Jewel-Weed.* _Impatiens fulva._
*Spotted Touch-me-not.*
*Lady’s Ear-Drop.*
*Balsam.*

Found in moist and shaded places from July to September.

This large, branching, leafy plant, from 1 to 3 or 4 feet in height, is weak-fibred and juicy; its stalk is slightly ribbed, and swollen at the joints, very smooth, and a pale reddish-green.

The large oval leaf, with its tapering tip and broad base, has a wide midrib, a coarsely toothed margin, and a thin, weak texture; the surface is dull, and pale green, with irresolute flecks of red near the edges. The leaves are alternately placed, on short pale stems.

The curious flower consists of a deep cornucopia-shaped pocket terminating in a slender hook-like spur, and 5 petal-like parts; the texture is fine and smooth, and in color it is orange or red-orange, thickly speckled with tawny-red dots, except the small curving side-parts which are less strong in hue, and even tinged with green; the 5 stamens are gathered in the mouth of the pocket, beneath the stem. The flowers swing on slender foot-stems in small groups.

Like all very juicy plants this wilts quickly when plucked. In bud the wing-like side-parts enfold the pocket. When ripe the seed-pods burst with a sudden snap that throws the seeds to a considerable distance; to this trait, and to the singular shape of the flower, are due the particular favor in which children hold the plant, and afford occasion, also, for the many by-names by which it is called, such as Snap-Weed, Silver-Weed, Lady’s Slipper, Lady’s Pocket, and Kicking Colt.

Pale Touch-me-not (_I. pallida_) is a light lemon-yellow variety, very like _I. fulva_, though the pocket of the flower is shorter, the spur less curved, and it is not so numerously spotted.

HOLLY FAMILY.

ILICINEÆ.

*Black Alder.* _Ilex verticillata._
*Winter Berry.*
*Christmas Berry.*

Found in moist wayside thickets, and on the borders of small streams; the inconspicuous flowers opening in June and July, and the bright berries ripening in October.

This shrub is from 3 to 5 or 8 feet high, and has a round, tough stem, covered with a smooth dark gray bark.

The small oval leaf, tapering at both ends, is thin, and smooth above, but slightly woolly on the ribs beneath; the color is a strong, full green.

The small, inconspicuous flower has 4, 5, 6, and sometimes 7 or 8, small rounded divisions, and an equal number of tiny stamens; these pale, greenish flowers are clustered close to the stem, in the angles of the leaves, on the ends of the branches.

The bright red berries, about the size of a small pea, glow under the green leaves in early October, and later, among the gray twiggery they are like coals of fire.

STAFF-TREE FAMILY.

CELASTRACEÆ.

*Climbing Bitter-Sweet.* _Celastrus scandens._
*Staff-tree.*
*Roxbury Waxwork.*

Found beside walls and in open woods, in June; growing often in damp soil.

This clambering and twisting vine grows to considerable proportions; its stems are very tough, and the bark is firm and close, somewhat shining, and dark gray with occasional bronzy flecks.

The oval leaf, with its many noticeable ribs, finely toothed margin, and fine texture, is short-stemmed; its color is a cool green, lighter and shining underneath. The arrangement is alternate.

The greenish-white flowers are small and inconspicuous, their parts all in fives; they are gathered in loose terminal clusters, which give no promise of their brilliant fruiting.

With the autumn ripening of the seed, the dry round case becomes red-orange in color, and bursts into 3 divisions, which curl backward, with many twisting curves, to display the glistening coral-red fruit. The drooping clusters of gorgeous orange and scarlet berries keep their color long, and if gathered just before the seed-cases open, will last all winter for house decoration.

BUCKTHORN FAMILY.

RHAMNACEÆ.

*New Jersey Tea.* _Ceanothus Americanus._
*Red-Root.*

Found on dry banks and in thicket growths, blossoming in July.

This is a widely branching, very leafy bush, woody-fibred and tough, which grows from 2 to 4 feet high, and has a coarse, roughish bark, slightly grooved, and dull bronzy-green in color.

The oval leaf is sometimes heart-shaped at the base, the veins are hairy beneath and the margin is irregularly and slightly toothed with fine points; the texture is loose; it is downy to the touch, and dull green. The leaves are set alternately on short reddish stems.

The tiny flowers have 5 very slender petals, and are a pinkish-creamy-white; they are set on white thread-like foot-stems, and gathered in close thimble-shaped clusters, upon long stems which form terminal groups. They have a faint sweet odor.

In some localities this thickly blooming shrub is much infested with insects. The flowers fall quickly, but the pretty little silvery seed-vessels are retained through the second season.

VINE FAMILY.

VITACEÆ.

*Virginia Creeper.* _Ampelopsis quinquefolia._
*American Ivy.*

Found on rich ground, in woods and wayside thickets, blossoming in July.

This is a high-climbing vine, with tough, woody-fibred stems, covered with a rough reddish-gray bark.

The large leaf is compound, with the 5 leaflets starting from the same point; the leaflet is taper-pointed, notched on the edge, smooth, shining, of a thin texture, and dark green color. The leaves, alternate in growth, are set on foot-stems 2 or 3 inches long.

The flowers are small, and inconspicuous, with their parts in fives and of a yellowish-green color; they grow in irregularly branching clusters from the angles of the leaves.

The round blue-black berries, on thick red stems, ripen in October. The leaves turn a vivid scarlet, which flames out among the autumn colors. The vine climbs by the aid of tendrils which terminate in flat sucker-like discs. It is easily transplanted and often seen around dwellings.

MILKWORT FAMILY.

POLYGALACEÆ.

*Flowering Wintergreen.* _Polygala paucifolia._
*Fringed Polygala.*

Found in light woods during May.

The single stalk is flattened beneath the leaf, from 3 to 5 inches in height, and slender. It is smooth, and strongly tinted with purple, even with crimson, at the foot.

The lower leaves are small, clasping, and alternate; the upper are on stems, and form a terminal cluster of 4 or 5 around the flowers,--they are oval, with an entire margin, and a thick texture, smooth, and glossy green.

The irregular-shaped flower, like a gayly colored fly, has a very delicate and fine texture, and is of an exquisite clear crimson tint, the one fringed petal being white, tinged with a light yellow-green. From 1 to 3 flowers, on their green stems, form a terminal cluster.

These flowers are the idle beauties of the plant; the unnoted homely Cinderella flower, very small, misshapen, and dull, that sits down in the dust on a little side-stem close to the root, bears the seeds. The leaves last over winter, turning a rich crimson-bronze hue, almost as brilliant as the flowers; the fresh leaves are simultaneous in growth with the blossoms, unfolding as the buds swell. White varieties are occasionally found.

*Milkwort.* _Polygala sanguinea._

Found in moist sandy soil, in September.

The little wiry stalk, which branches near the top for the flowers, is 6 or 8 inches in height, grooved and twisted, and green in color.

The line-like leaf, with its blunt tip, and entire margin, is somewhat thick, and its green color carries a hint of crimson. The leaves are alternate, near together, and clasping.

The very small yellow petals of the flower are hidden within the calyx, two parts of which are larger than the others, and colored crimson. The flowers are so placed in a close cylindrical spike that these crimson calyx-parts are on the outside, overlapping each other in rows like tiles. These crimson spikes are on long stems that grow terminally, and from the angles of the leaves.

The flowers bloom in a single row at a time at the bottom of the spike, which prolongs itself as the buds unfold; when the seeds ripen the lowest rows fall successively, leaving the brownish stem closely beset by the little withered foot-stems of the blossoms.

PULSE FAMILY.

LEGUMINOSÆ.

*Wild Lupine.* _Lupinus perennis._
*Old-Maids’ Bonnets.*
*Wild Pea.*

Found in barren sandy fields, in June.

The tough, woody-fibred, round stalk is about 1 or 2 feet high, erect and leafy, with a rough, hairy surface. The color is light green, with a considerable showing of red.

The leaf is divided into 5 to 15 long narrow leaflets which radiate from a common center (“palmate”), each showing a strong midrib, with an entire margin; the texture is thin, and fine, and pleasing to the touch; the color is a soft green, paler underneath, showing a hint of red at the edge, the tip, and again at the stem. The leaves are set on stems, and arranged in little groups alternately.

The flower has 5 petals: the upper is broad, erect, and much folded back; the side petals are closed about the lower petal, which is not observable until the blossom is ready to fall, when it pushes itself, and the stamens, forward. The upright petal is a deep beautiful red-purple or dark violet, the side petals are violet, lined with blue, the lower petal is tipped with purple; the calyx is 2-parted and green. The flowers, set on short red-purple stems, are arranged loosely in a long terminal spike. The blossom is odorous.

In bud scarcely a trace of the purple tint shows, petals and calyx being pink and greenish-white,--even when the upright petal first turns back, only a few dainty flecks of dark color may be discerned; with maturity the purple and blue increase in depth. The blossoms at the base of the spike begin to open earliest. Not the least of the Lupine’s attractions is the graceful curve of the stalk,--rarely is the flower-spike stiffly erect. It is a communistic plant, spreading all over a sand plain and making it a field of blue in blossom time, the roots buried firmly and to a surprising depth in the loose soil.

*Vetch.* _Vicia Cracca._
*Tare.*

Found along the borders of thickets, and in fields among grasses and grains, in June and July.

The climbing, leafy stalk grows from 1 to 2 feet high; it is tough-fibred, and much grooved with fine lines. Color, green.

The compound leaf is composed of 20 or more side leaflets, and terminates in a tendril; the leaflets are small and narrow, and are tipped with little needle-like bristles; the surface is finely downy. The leaves, on very short stems, are alternate and clasping by a pair of half-arrow-shaped wings. The color is grayish-green.

The flower is small, and shaped like the bean blossom; its color is a fresh, light, bluish-violet tint, the broad upper petal being faintly lined with darker violet; the calyx is unequally 5-parted, and colored like the corolla. The flowers are densely crowded in long, one-sided curving spikes that grow from the angles of the leaves.

The leafage of this plant affords a good example of the refined green generally found accompanying flowers of a blue or violet hue; its stalk is perhaps a little awkward in gesture, but not so the flexible curving flower-clusters. It grows in communities, and seen from a little distance forms a beautiful mass of blue.

*Wild Indigo.* _Baptisia tinctoria._

Found in dry sandy soil in uplands and light woods, blossoming in June and July.

The round stalk, from 2 to 3 feet high, is tough-fibred, and extremely smooth; color, green.

The leaf is divided into 3 small wedge-shaped leaflets, tapering at the base; it has an entire edge, a smooth and very fine surface, of a rich, dark gray-green color. The leaves are alternate, on very short foot-stems.

The corolla of the small pea-shaped blossom is of a clear yellow color, with a light green calyx. The flowers, on short curved stems, grow along the ends of the branches, in slender, elongated clusters, or spires,--the clusters sometimes branch, and are sometimes leafy.

Both the flower and leaf in withering turn black. The plant is attractive in its leafage, which is fine in quality and rich in color; when growing in the open it has a round, compact, bushy top, and a general air of trigness, often unnoted under less favorable conditions.

*Wild Senna.* _Cassia Marilandica._

Found in rich ground by the wayside, in July and August.

The smooth, tough stalk, growing from 3 to 4 feet high, is light green in color.

The compound leaf has from 6 to 9 pairs of narrow oblong leaflets; the midrib of each leaflet extends a little beyond the margin at the tip of the blade; the surface is smooth, and the texture firm and fine. The foot-stems of the leaves show the gland-like swellings frequently seen in members of this family. The leaves are alternate, and green in color, tending toward yellow-green, lighter beneath.

The flower has 5 slightly unequal petals, 3 standing close together, and 2 spreading more widely, while the calyx has 5 long divisions turned backward; there are 10 stamens in 3 sets--one set of 3 is short and rounded at the tip, a second set of 4, opposite the first, is somewhat longer, while the third set of 3 is longer still. The petals and stamens are of a rich soft yellow, the latter being tipped with a very dark brown, while the calyx is a fine greenish-yellow. The blossoms are in loose clusters, on short flower-stems, from the angles of the upper leaves.

The fineness of texture, and the quality of color, accentuated by the irregular dashes of dark of the stamen-tips, give to the Wild Senna the distinguishing air of “style.” The leaves seem slightly sensitive to the touch, and inclined to droop with much handling.

*Wild Pea-nut.* _Amphicarpæa monoica._

Common in rich, open woodlands and damp wayside tangles, usually blossoming in August and September.

A vine: climbing over low vegetation by aid of its slender, twining, green stem.

The 3 leaflets of the compound leaf are very broad across the middle, especially the middle one, which is almost diamond-shaped; the margin is entire, the surface almost smooth, and the texture exceedingly thin; at the juncture of the foot-stem with the blade, and with the main stem, are small gland-like swellings; the alternate leaves, on slender stems, are of a light yellowish-green.

The slender pea-shaped blossom is lavender-tinted, with a pale green 4- to 5-notched calyx; the flowers grow in groups of from 4 to 7, on the end of a short flower-stem, that springs from the angle of the leaf.

The flowers occasionally ripen pods about 1 inch long, holding from 3 to 4 brown-mottled, bean-like seeds. The vine is said also to form subterranean seeds from rudimentary flowers, the seed being enclosed in a fleshy, pear-shaped pod; this perhaps may have been thought a good reason for giving to a slender and well-behaved little vine the opprobrious folk-name of Hog-Pea-nut! But those who know its true character will never degrade it to so low a level!

*White Clover.* _Trifolium repens._

Found in chief profusion in June--though continuing to flower through the summer,--amidst grass, along the roadsides, and occasionally in woodland glades.

The creeping stalk sends up its erect leaf and flower-stems (of 3 to 6 inches height) in great profusion. It is green and pale.

The leaf is compound; the 3 leaflets are oval, slightly notched, or heart-shaped, with obscurely toothed margins; of fine texture, and smooth surface. In color it is a rather dark, cool green, sometimes faintly marked with a triangular band of lighter color on each leaflet.

The upper and larger petal of the little flower is slightly turned back; the color of the corolla is white, the small 5-parted calyx being green. The flowers, on their very tiny foot-stems, are gathered in a close, round head, which is set on a slender, light green stem that springs from the stalk.

As the flowers mature they turn downwards from the head: the trefoil leaf is of especial elegance in shape and color. Roadsides and lawns thickly strewn with these pretty Clover heads, sweeten the air with the wholesome grass-like fragrance of their odorous flowers,--they are beloved by bees.

*Alsatian Clover.* _Trifolium hybridum._
*Alsike.*

Found in June and July, in meadows and fields.

The stalk (from 8 to 12 inches in height) is branching, leafy at intervals, and curving in growth; it is slender, round, and finely grooved. Color light green, speckled with dull crimson.

The leaf is compound, the 3 leaflets small and narrow; the margin is finely notched, the texture delicate and smooth to the touch; the color is a cool light green, with no clover-markings. The leaf is set on slender grooved stems, with a pair of flaring wings at the junction with the stalk; the arrangement is alternate.

The small flower is very like the White Clover, but tinted a beautiful rose color. Set in a loose, small, round head, on a terminal or side stem.

When advanced in age the lower flowers of the head turn downwards, after the manner of the White Clover, which it closely resembles except for the color. It is honey sweet in perfume.

*Crimson Clover.* _Trifolium pratense._

Found, from June to September, growing in meadows, fields, and waysides.

The stalk (from 6 to 15 inches high) is rather large, branching, leafy, strong-fibred, grooved slightly, and roughened by the presence of short hairs. Color, light green.

The leaflets are 3, of varying shape, oval, long oval, or heart-shaped; the margin is slightly irregular, the texture thin; the color is a fine cool green, lighter underneath, and the upper surface of each leaflet is marked with a pale triangular patch in the middle. The leaf is set on a slender stem, with a pair of bristly-pointed, woolly, green and white, membrane-like wings at the junction of the stalk; the arrangement is alternate.

The corolla is large, its upper petal narrow and erect; in color, all shades of crimson to a violet tint. The 5-parted calyx has long thread-like feathery tips; it is light green. The flower-head is large, close, and round or oval; it is set on a terminal or side stem. Beneath the head, like a collar, are found 3 membrane-like leaves.

The violet-crimson flower-head is modified, by the green calices, into excellent harmony with the fine cool green of the leafage.

*Yellow Clover.* _Trifolium agrarium._
*Hop Clover.*

Found, during June and July, in dry fields and waysides.

The stalk branches slightly, and is leafy; it is slender, round, and smooth, and grows from 6 to 12 inches high. The color is light green.

The 3 leaflets of the compound leaf are long and narrow, with an exceedingly fine texture and smooth surface. The leaves, on very short stems, are placed in groups, or singly and alternately, upon the stalk; at the base of the stem, and uniting with it for half its length, occur a pair of enfolding wings.

The flowers are very small, and gathered into a close head, that is set on a little stem growing from the angle of a leaf; the corollas are yellow, the minute calices being green.

The flowers open from the bottom of the head upward, the mature blossoms becoming dry and husky, and turning down after the manner of the hop, as the bloom continues towards the summit; the heads thus show a harmonious gradation of color from brownish-yellow at the base, through yellow, to the yellow-green of the buds at the top of the head. The plant often grows in clumps of a considerable size.

*Stone Clover.* _Trifolium arvense._
*Rabbit-Foot Clover.*
*Pussy Plant.*

Found in August and September; growing in poor, dry soil.

The slender, branching stalk varies from 4 to 10 inches in height, and is smooth, or slightly rough, and light green.

The leaf has 3 long, narrow, and blunt-pointed leaflets,--their midribs conspicuous to the very tips; the margin is entire, the texture fine and downy to the touch, and the color is a rather light green. The leaves, on short stems, are arranged alternately and near together.

The small, greenish-white corolla is shorter than the calyx, which is long, and green, with 5 feathery tips that are rose colored and give to the head its peculiar gray-pink hue. The flower-heads are oblong; 2 or more are found on a branch.

A faint perfume belongs to the newly opened flowers. Doubtless the children’s name, “Pussy Plant,” points to the resemblance the silky, green-rose head bears to the pussy-willow catkins.

*Nonesuch.* _Medicago lupulina._
*Black Medick.*

Found, from July to September, in dry soil and barren fields.

The little stalk, frequently about 6 inches high, is apt to lie upon the ground, and is zigzag or twisted in manner, or occasionally curving; it is slightly rough, and downy near the top. In color green, rusty, and pale near the top.

The parts of the 3-divided leaf are long-oval, broadest at the notched tip, which is further marked by the sharp little projection of the midrib beyond the slightly irregular margin; the surface is rough to the touch, downy when young; the color is a cool gray-green. The leaves, on slight stems, are arranged in groups alternately. A pair of sharp-pointed, notched wings clasp the stalk at the junction of the stem.

The small and delicate corolla is yellow; the minute calyx is green. The flower-head is small and round; on a slender terminal or side stem.

When the seeds ripen the pods swell large and bean-shaped; they turn dark, almost black, and are woolly to the touch; each contains one round seed.

*Purple Clover.* _Medicago sativa._
*Alfalfa.*
*Medick.*
*Lucerne.*

Found, from July to September, in dry fields and sandy barrens.

The bushy, branching stalk reaches 2 or 3 feet in height; it is not very large, and is smooth; light green in color.

The 3 leaflets of the compound leaf are long and narrow, or a pointed-oblong shape, widest near the abruptly-tapering tip; the margin is very slightly irregular, except for a sharp little needle-point at the tip; the surface is downy. Each leaflet is provided with a tiny foot-stem, the middle having the longest one. The color is a cool green, lighter underneath; without markings. The leaves are set on slender stems, arranged in groups, alternately; a pair of slender, fine wings occur at the junction of the stalk.

The flower is smaller than that of the Crimson Clover; it has a fine texture, and the petals are a pure purple color, the upper petal, which is much curled back, being marked with delicate dark lines; the small calyx is pale green. The flower-head is a short and club-shaped spike.

An individual trait is the charming little jerk in the line at the spring of the central leaflet.

*Tick Trefoil.* _Desmodium nudiflorum._

Found on sandbanks and in dry shade in July.

The root sends up a flower-stem, pale, slender and about 2 feet in height, and a stout, woody leaf-stem which is shorter, and gray.

The 3 leaflets of the compound leaf are broad-oval, entire, with many ribs and veins showing in the thin, somewhat papery texture, that is rough and dry to the touch; the color is grayish-green, paler underneath. Three or four leaves on their long strong stems are close set, one above the other, in an apparent whorl upon the summit of the short stem already described. Leaves occur also upon the flower-stems.

The flower is small; the upper petal is notched at the tip, and much turned back; the 4 others are caught by thread-like bases in the shallow 5-parted calyx; they are a clear lilac and white, the upper petal being marked with two purple patches; the calyx is pale reddish. The flowers on red foot-stems are arranged in little groups in a long spire upon the long stem which rises from the root.

One flower only blooms at a time. A tiny pointed leaf, or bract, as long as the calyx, is folded over the bud, but falls when the petals expand.

*Wild Bean.* _Apios tuberosa._

Found on moist banks, among tangles of low bushes and sedges, in August.

This is a twining vine, leafy, rather slender, and slightly rough to the touch. In color, green, sometimes tinged with a dull red.

The leaf is compound, usually of 5 or 7 leaflets; these are oval, largest at the base, and tapering to the tip; the margin is entire, the fibre strong, and the surface slightly rough; color, a strong, full green. The leaves are alternate at intervals, springing from a strong joint.

The upper petal of the flower is broad, and hood like, the middle folded petal is like a beak beneath it, the side petals narrow and hanging like ribbons to tie the hood. Its color is brown-pink, the hood and beak darkest on the inside. The flowers are clustered together in a dense rounded head, set on a short stem that springs from a leaf-joint.

The front view of this flower carries out the fantastic suggestion of the hood shaped petal, for the beak looks like a strongly hooked nose far under its shadow. It is odorous.

ROSE FAMILY.

ROSACEÆ.

*Choke Berry.* _Pyrus arbutifolia._

Found in wooded lands during April and May.

This small, branching shrub grows between 2 and 5 feet in height; it is woody-fibred, and the bark is reddish-gray in color.

The leaf is small, and oval, with an abruptly pointed tip, tapering to the base, the margin being finely toothed, with a smooth and shining surface. Its color is dark green. The leaves, on short stems, are placed alternately.

The 5 round petals of the flower have little claw-like bases, and are white in color; the many stamens are also white, with light red tips; the pistil is 5-parted. The flowers are set on light green foot-stems, and arranged in almost flat-topped clusters from the ends of the branches.

This neat and tidy looking leaf always shines as though just washed in dew. The pretty flower-clusters resemble plum blossoms.

*Wild Strawberry.* _Fragaria Virginiana._

Found during May and June in pastures, and fields, and copse-borders.

The leaf and flower stems, from 6 to 8 inches high, spring from the root, with dry sheaths enclosing them at the ground.

The leaf is compound, the 8 leaflets wedge-shaped; the margin is deeply toothed, and the many ribs show plainly; loose of texture, and roughened underneath with hairs. In color a rich strong green, paler beneath, sometimes reddish, or pink. The stem is hairy; green, and reddish near the foot.

The flower has 5 rounded petals with pointed bases; its texture is thin; pure white in color; the stamens many and orange-yellow. The petals are set daintily around the base of the little green cone, that later becomes the berry, showing the 5 broad divisions of the calyx between; just beneath the calyx, and alternate with its tips, occur 5 narrow bracts which lie so tightly underneath as to appear to belong to it. The flowers, on short foot-stems, are placed in groups on larger leafy stems, these forming a loose terminal cluster set on the hairy stem which rises from the roots.

After the petals fall, the calyx turns up its tips to protect the fruit, which droops, as it reddens and becomes pulpy. The young leaf, as it rises from the ground, is close-folded like a delightful little green fan; the first leaves often lie flat upon the ground, and are rusty in color. The Strawberry has a pleasant way of bursting into a flurry of bloom late in August; along wood-paths and unfrequented lanes one comes upon it as a belated bit of spring. He who has smelled the exquisite fragrance of the field strawberry fruit will not soon forget its wild charm.

*Sweet-briar.* _Rosa rubiginosa._

Found in pastures during June.

This lovely, branching, leafy bush grows to be 7 or 8 feet high under favoring conditions, but is most often about 3 or 5 feet in height; its stalks and branches are large and strong, round, firm-fibred, and smooth, with frequent slender thorns which curve backward. In color, a full clear green when young, only dashed with red-bronze, but becoming red-brown when old. The thorns are highly polished, and of a strong red color when old.

The little leaflets, of the 3- to 7-divided leaf, are oval, with a prominent midrib (upon which they are occasionally creased); the margin is doubly notched, the ribs and foot-stems hairy with little prickles; the upper surface is soft to the touch, while the under is slightly sticky with a resinous gum, which yields a delicious aromatic perfume. The color is a cool and beautiful green. The leaves clasp the stalk with a pair of small fine-pointed wings (“stipules”); they are placed alternately, either singly or in groups, and close together.

The flower is composed of 5 heart-shaped petals, curving like a shell, of an exquisitely delicate texture and smoothness; their color a lovely creamy-rose tint. The stamens are many, curling, and pale straw color. The calyx is 5-parted, the spreading tips notched 3 or 5 times; they are smooth, with a velvet lining which is tinted a very pale creamy-green, while the outside of the calyx is bright green. The flowers are set in groups on little twigs, and scattered profusely along the stalks.

When the flower opens, the calyx-tips turn back. The haws are large, and of a brilliant coral-red color which they retain through the winter. The sturdy young shoots, which grow rapidly, are thickly protected by long bristles of a rusty red color. An element of beauty, in the growth of this most perfect rose, exists in the free curve with which its branches bend downward their wreaths of bloom. The odor of the leaves is like that of green apples.

*Pasture Rose.* _Rosa humilis._

Found on rocky hillsides, and in dry thickets, during June or July.

The branching, leafy stalk is rather slender, firm-fibred, and smooth, and grows about 2 or 3 feet high; its spines are occasional, short and fine, and either straight or slightly down-curved,--they occur also in pairs at the base of the leaf. In color green, with, or without, bronzy-red streaks.

The leaflets, 3 to 7 in number, are a long-oval shape,--frequently narrow,--sharp pointed, with an irregularly toothed margin, a thin, firm, close texture, the ribs bristly underneath. In color a fine rich green. The leaves are alternately placed, and clasp the stalk with a pair of flaring, narrow wings (“stipules”).

The petals are 5, heart-shaped, and shell-like, the texture is thin, showing the veins; color, a pure and delicate rose-pink. The stamens are short, many, and yellow; the pistils gathered in a small crimson center. The bright green calyx-divisions are 5, long and narrow, deeply and sharply cleft, covered with bristles. The flowers on leafy stems, are placed, terminally, or along the branches, in pairs, or singly.

The blossoms are odorous, and abundant,--their petals are beautifully curved. The plants grow in thick plantations, and are partial to upland pastures, where they contest their rights with the Hardhack, and Everlastings, and even crowd upon the red cedars and wild apple trees.

*Smooth Rose.* _Rosa blanda._
*Meadow Rose.*

Found near meadow walls, and along fences, in June.

The stout, rather large stalk, branches a great deal and is very leafy; it varies from 2 to 4 or more feet, and is generally quite without prickles. The new shoots are green, tinged with pink, and show a slight bloom; the old growths (they become woody-fibred) are dark red.

The leaflets are 3 to 7 in number, large and often blunt at the tip, many ribbed, with noticeably toothed margins usually, and a grooved mid-stem. The color is cool green, rather dark, underneath white or pale with bloom. The leaf is set on a short stem, scarcely longer than the conspicuous wings, with which it clasps the stalk; these have pointed tips and are finely toothed, and are green, with a dash of red in the stem. The leaves are close together.

The flower is large and odorous, the 5 petals being broad and curving; in color a glowing rich crimson, pale near the center. The stamens are many, and yellow; the pistils gathered in a flat disc are green or nearly yellow. The calyx is very smooth, the divisions shorter than the petals and downy within; it is a bright clear green. The flowers are set singly, or in groups. The foot-stem is short; midway it bears a pair of pointed leafkins, and at its junction with the stalk a pair of large, oval, toothed leaf-like wings occur.

For profusion of bloom this is a good variety in cultivation, to which it takes kindly, since it remains vigorous and free from blight when its paler sisters show their longing for their old wild life. The hips are large and red. Bristles are sometimes found on the new shoots.

*High-bush Blackberry.* _Rubus villosus._

Found in roadside thickets in early June.