Chapter II: Book 4: Anatomy of Leaves, Flowers, Fruits and Seeds (1)

Anatomy of Leaves
Anatomy of Flowers
Anatomy of Fruits
Anatomy of Seeds
LECTURES
Mixture
Luctation
Lixivial Salts
Marine Salts
Colours of Plants
Tasts in Plants
Salts in Water
INDEX
EXPLICATION OF TABLES
TABLES

_At a Meeting of the Council of the_ ROYAL
SOCIETY, _Feb. 22. 1681/2_

Dr. _Grew_ having read several _Lectures_ of the _Anatomy_ of _Plants_, some whereof have been already printed at divers times, and some are not printed; with several other _Lectures_ of their _Colours_, _Odours_, _Tasts_, and _Salts_; as also of the _Solution_ of _Salts_ in _Water_; and of _Mixture_; all of them to the satisfaction of the said _Society_: It is therefore Ordered, That He be desired, to cause them to printed together in one Volume.

_CHR. WREN_ P.R.S.

THE

ANATOMY

OF

PLANTS.

WITH AN

IDEA

OF A

Philosophical History of Plants,

And several other

LECTURES,

Read before the

ROYAL SOCIETY.

By _NEHEMJAH GREW_ M.D. Fellow
of the _ROYAL SOCIETY_, and of the
_COLLEGE_ of _PHYSICIANS_.

Printed by _W. Rawlins_, for the Author, 1682.

TO HIS MOST

Sacred Majesty

CHARLES II.

King of Great Britain, &c.

May it please Your Majesty,

_The Dedication of one Part of the following_ Anatomy _having been very graciously received by Your Majesty: I am now emboldened most humbly to present the Whole into_ Your Royal Hands.

_By which Your Majesty will find, That there are_ Terræ Incognitæ _in_ Philosophy, _as well as_ Geography. _And for so much, as lies here, it comes to pass, I know not how, even in this Inquisitive Age, That I am the first, who have given a Map of the Country._

_Your Majesty will here see, That there are those things within a_ Plant, _little less admirable, than within an_ Animal. _That a_ Plant, _as well as an_ Animal, _is composed of several_ Organical Parts; _some whereof may be called its_ Bowels. _That every_ Plant _hath_ Bowels _of divers kinds, conteining divers kinds of_ Liquors. _That even a_ Plant _lives partly upon_ Aer; _for the reception whereof, it hath those Parts which are answerable to_ Lungs. _So that a_ Plant _is, as it were, an_ Animal _in Quires; as an_ Animal _is a_ Plant, _or rather several_ Plants _bound up into one_ Volume.

_Again, that all the said_ Organs, Bowels, _or other_ Parts, _are as artificially made; and for their_ Place _and_ Number, _as punctually set together; as all the_ Mathematick Lines _of a_ Flower _or_ Face. _That the_ Staple _of the_ Stuff _is so exquisitely fine, that no_ Silk-worm _is able to draw any thing near so small a_ Thred. _So that one who walks about with the meanest_ Stick, _holds a Piece of Natures Handicraft, which far surpasses the most elaborate_ Woof _or_ Needle-Work _in the World._

_That by all these Means, the_ Ascent _of the_ Sap, _the_ Distribution _of the_ Aer, _the_ Confection _of several sorts of_ Liquors, _as_ Lympha’s, Milks, Oyls, Balsames; _with other parts of_ Vegetation, _are all contrived and brought about in a Mechanical way. In sum, Your Majesty will find, that we are come ashore into a new World, whereof we see no end._

_It may be, that some will say, into another_ Utopia. _Yet not I, but Nature speaketh these things: the only true_ Pallas, _wherewith it is treasonable for the most couriously handed_ Arachne _to compare. In whose Name, I, the meanest of her Pupils, do in all humility crave Your Majesties Gracious Patronage. Whereof I cannot doubt, since Your Majesty hath been pleased to be the Founder, and to style Your Self the Patron of that_ Society, _of which I have the honour to be a Member. Your Majesty deeming it to be a more Noble Design, To enlarge the Territories of Knowledge, than those of Dominion: and the Highest Pitch of Human Glory, not to rule, in any sort, over many; but to be a Good Prince over Wise Men. I am_

Your Majesties
most humble
and
most obedient
Subject

_NEHEMJAH GREW._

THE
PREFACE.

It is a _Politick_ or _Civil Virtue_ in every prudent mans Eye, To set himself an example, in what he doth, unto others. And in so doing, he looks upon himself as accountable, in some sort, to all Men. To those therefore, who may either expresly, or tacitly, expect the Reasons, upon which I first undertook the _Anatomy_ of _Plants_, and also made the after-progress therein; I shall summe them up as follows.

The first occasion of directing my Thoughts this way, was in the _Year 1664_, upon reading some, of the many and curious Inventions of Learned Men, in the _Bodies_ of _Animals_. For considering, that both of them came at first out of the same _Hand_; and were therefore the _Contrivances_ of the same _Wisdom_: I thence fully assured my self, that it could not be a vain Design; to seek it in both. And being then newly furnished with a good stock of _Seeds_, in order to raise a _Nursery_ of _Plants_; I resolved, besides what I first aimed at, to make the utmost use of them for that purpose: that so I might put somewhat upon that side the _Leaf_ which the best _Botanicks_ had left bare and empty. And in which, notwithstanding some other Learned Men had inferred somewhat of this nature; as Dr. _Highmore_ in his _Book_ of _Generation_, Dr. _Sharrock_ of the _Propagation_ of _Plants_, and Mr. _Hook_ in his _Micrography_: yet but collaterally, and whithout shewing any purpose of managing this _Part_ of _Natural History_. And although it seemed at first an Objection in my way, That the first projectors seldome bring their business to any good end: yet I also knew, That if Men should stay for an Example in every thing; nothing extraordinary would ever be done.

But notwithstanding the reasonableness of the Design; yet I did not forget, that, in respect of the Undertaker, there might be _Impar congressus_. And therefore, before I had ventured very far, in the Year 1668, I imparted it to my Brother-in-Law, the Learned Dr. _Henry Sampson_, now _Fellow_ of the _Colledge_ of _Physicians_ in _London_. Who not only very well liked the same; but also excited me to a vigorous and accurate prosecution of it. Which he did, partly, by mentioning a very pertinent passage of Dr. _Glisson_, in the _Preface_ to his _Book de Hepate_,[1] which I had not then read.

_Plantæ quoque in hunc censum_ (sc. Anatomicum) _veniunt; variâ enim
Partium texturâ, & differentiis constant: & proculdubio, ex acurata
earundem dissectione, utiles valde observationes nobis exurgerent:
præstaretque in illis (inferioris licet ordinis) rebus examinandis
operam impendere, quam in transcribendis ut sæpe sit, aliorum
laboribus, inutiliter ætatem transigere. Quippe hoc pacto, ignavarum
apum more, aliena duntaxat alvearia expilamus, nihilque bono publico
adjicimus._

[1] Ch. 1.

After I had finished the _First Book_, that I might know the sense also of other Learned Men, whether the steps I had already taken, would warrant me to proceed any further: I put some part of it into the same Hand; who, in the Year 1670, communicated the same to Mr. _Oldenburge_, then _Secretary_ to the _Royal Society_: and after he had read it over, it was, upon his motion, delivered to that excellent Person Dr. _John Wilkins_ then _Bishop_ of _Chester_; who produced it at a Meeting of the _Royal Society_, and desired, they might see the rest. Which, or the greatest part, being also presented to them, the Right Honourable the Lord Vicount _Brouncker_, then _President_ of the _Royal Society_, was pleased to peruse the same. Presently, after which, at a Meeting of the Council of the said _Society_, the following _Order_ was made, and entred in their Council-Book with this Date, and in these words:

_May 11ᵗʰ 1671._

_Then was Licensed Dr._ Nehemjah Grew’_s Book, Entituled,_ The
Anatomy of Vegetables _begun; together with an account of_ Vegetation
_grounded thereupon. And Ordered to be Printed by the Printer to the_
Royal Society.

Hereupon, I was obliged to send the Book to the Press. And upon the 9ᵗʰ of _November_ following in the same Year 1671, when it was near being printed, my Lord _Brouncher_ signed the forementioned _Order_: the Printer, whose Name was to be inserted therein, not having received his _Diploma_ till that time.

The Book being quickly after printed off; I ordered it to be Presented to the _Royal Society_; which was accordingly done at one of their Meetings _December 7, 1671_. And also to be sent to the Bishop of _Chester_; who was pleased to signifie his acceptance thereof by a Letter dated at _Chester_, _December_ 26ᵗʰ 1671. now filed amongst others in the Custody of the _Royal Society_: part whereof, in regard it relates to matter of Fact, I shall here recite.

Sir,

_I did yesterday receive your Book; and am very sensible of the
Honour you have done me in the Dedication of it. You was very happy
in the choice of this Subject to write upon; one of the most Noble
and the most Copious parts of_ Philosophy; _and such an one, as hath
hitherto lain uncultivated. And you have been very successful in
your first Attempt about it, in so many remarkable Observations and
Discoveries, as you have made already. I could heartily wish, that
you would still apply your self to this kind of Enquiries. You will
find that Additionals will come in more copiously and easily. And it
is not fit, that any one should, by his Superstructions, carry away
the praise from him, who was the first Inventor, and who laid the
Foundations, wherein the greatest difficulty doth consist, &c._

Having thus submitted my self to the Judgment of many Learned Men; I saw that my Journey must not here end. So that, like one who is got into a Wood, I thought I might as fairly find my way out, by going on, as by making a retreat. Whereupon, I began to draw up a _Scheme_ of the whole _Design_.

While I was doing this, I received news from _London_, that the same day, _December 7. 1671_, in which my Book, then printed, was presented to the _Royal Society_: there was also presented a _Manuscript_ (without _Figures_) from Seignior _Malpighi_, upon the same Subject; dated at _Bononia_, _November,_ 1ˢᵗ 1671. the same, which Mr. _Oldenburge_, when it came to be printed, calleth his _Idea_. And of this, entry was made in their Journal Book. So that the _Royal Society_ having now a Prospect of the good service of an Ancient _Member_, and one, who had highly merited by his Works then extant; from thence forward, I looked upon my self to be excused.

But soon after, receiving another Letter from the Bishop of _Chester_, dated at _London_, _Febr. 18. 1672_. I found the matter otherwise; and that the _Society_ were pleased to engage me to proceed. Whereof entry was made by the _Secretary_ in their Journal Book, at one of their Meetings, _April, 18. 1672_, in these words:

_The_ Society _was made acquainted with one particular lately passed
in the Council;_ sc. _That the Bishop of_ Chester _had there proposed
Dr._ Grew _to be a Curator to the_ Royal Society _for the_ Anatomy
_of_ Plants: _and that the Council had approved of that_ Proposal.
_Upon which, it was Ordered, That the Thanks of the_ Society _be
returned to the Lord Bishop of_ Chester, _for this_ Proposal, _and to
the Council for their Approbation of the same._

This they might be induced to do; upon considering, that it would be no disadvantage to the credit of those matters, which were so new and strange, to be offered to the World from a double Authority. For one, although he may have no mind to deceive; yet is it more likely for one, than for two, to be deceived. Likewise, that the same Subject, being prosecuted by two Hands, would be the more illustrated by the different Examples produced by both. And that, as in other matters, so here, the defects of both, would mutually be supplyed.

Whether for these, or other Reasons also, they were pleased to pass the forementioned _Order_; that being done, it had been very ill manners in me, not to have answered their expectation therein. And therefore reassuming the Design I had laid by, and having reduced it to some intelligible _Idea_, it was submitted to the Censure of the _Royal Society_: and it was thereupon ordered it should be printed.

Not long after, I received a Curious and Learned Book from Mons. _Dodart_, _Archiater_ to the Prince of _Conde_, and _Fellow_ of the _Royal Academy_ at _Paris_; in persuance of whose Order, it was by him composed and published. Which being a Design of a like Import, I was glad to see it so far justify’d by that Illustrious _Society_, as well as by our own.

In this _Idea_, one principal Thing I insist upon, for a _Philosophical History_ of _Plants_, is _Anatomy_. And, agreeing to the _Method_ therein proposed, all the Observations conteined in the _First Book_, except one or two, were made with the _Naked Eye_. To the end, I might first give a proof, How far it was possible for us to go, without the help of _Glasses_: which many Ingenious Men want; and more, the patience to manage them. For the Truth of these Observations, Seignior _Malpighi_, having procured my Book to be translated into Latin for his private use, speaks his own sense, in some of his Letters to Mr. _Oldenburge_, printed at the end of his _Anatomy_ of _Plants_. And some of them, have since been confirmed, both by our Learned Country-men Dr. _Wallis_, and Mr. _Lister_; and by the Ingenious Mr. _Lewenhoeck_, abroad.

Having thus begun with the bare Eye; I next proceeded to the use of the _Microscope_. And the Observations thereby made, first on _Roots_, and afterwards on _Trunks_ and _Branches_, together with the _Figures_, were all exhibited to the _Royal Society_ at several times from _May 15. 1672._ to _April 2. 1674_; being the _Materials_ for the _Second_ and _Third Parts_: and hereof _Memorials_ were inserted in their Journal Books.

After this, the _Royal Society_ received from Seignior _Malpighi_ his _Second Part_ of the _Anatomy_ of _Plants_, together with the _Figures_ therein described, and his _Letters_ to their _Secretary_, dated at _Bononia_ _Aug. 20ᵗʰ_ of the same year 1674. when, and not before, he gave leave that the two said _Parts_ should be printed.

So soon as I had finished the _Second_ and _Third Parts_, I proceeded to the _Last_, _sc._ of _Leaves_, _Flowers_, _Fruits_ and _Seeds_: and those Things I met with, more remarquable, were presented to the said _Society_ in the Years 1676 & 1677. And the publishing of the former _Parts_ successively, as well as of all together, hath been done in pursuance of their several _Orders_ for the same.

Having concluded the _History_ of _Perfect Plants_; I intended to have subjoyned the _Description_ of those which are _Imperfect_. As also of _Parasitical_, _Marine_, and _Sensitive Plants_. And lastly, a view of the chief Particulars, wherein the _Mechanisme_ of a _Plant_, is different from that of an _Animal_. But these things I leave to some other Hand.

The _First Book_, a little after it came forth; was translated into the French _Tongue_, by Mons. Le _Vasseur_ an Ingenious Gentleman in _Paris_; elegantly, and in the Judgment of those who are well skilled in that _Language_, with much exactness, as to the sense. He having taken special care, to have all the difficulties of our own, by Me, cleared to him. And in a late Book Entituled, _Philosophia vetus & nova_ printed at _Noriberg_ 1682. the Learned Author seems to have made use of this Translation, for all that he hath taken notice of in that my _First Book_.

By the Ingenious Collectors of the _German Ephemerides_, both my _First_, _Second_, and _Third Books_, are all published in _Latine_. But their unskilful Interpreter doth often fail of the _Grammatical Sense_. Whose Errors, many of them very gross, I desire may be imputed neither to them, nor to my self.

Besides these, the _Second Lecture_ of _Mixture_ is also translated into _French_, by Mons. _Mesmin_ a Learned Physician in _Paris_: whose _Version_ is very well approved by those who are competent Judges hereof.

This, and the rest which follow, are placed, not in the order of _Time_; but more according to their Nature or Relation one to another. All of them intended as a Commentary upon some particulars mentioned, either in the _First Lecture_, or in the _Idea_.

In the _Plates_, for the clearer conception of the _Part_ described, I have represented it, generally, as entire, as its being magnified to some good degree, would bear. So, for instance, not the _Barque_, _Wood_, or _Pith_ of a _Root_ or _Tree_, by it self; but at least, some portion of all three together: Whereby, both their _Texture_, and also their Relation one to another, and the _Fabrick_ of the whole, may be observed at one _View_. Yet have I not every where magnify’d the _Part_ to the same degree; but more or less, as was necessary to represent what is spoken of it. And very highly, only in some few Examples, as in _Tab. 40._ which may suffice to illustrate the rest. Some of the _Plates_, especially those which I did not draw to the _Engravers_ hand, are a little hard and stiff: but they are all well enough done, to represent what they intend.

AN

IDEA

OF A

Philosophical History

OF

PLANTS.

Read before the

ROYAL SOCIETY,

_January 8._ and _January 15. 1672_.

By _NEHEMJAH GREW_ M.D. Fellow of the
_Royal Society_, and of the _College_ of _Physicians_.

=The Second Edition.=

_LONDON_,

Printed by _W. Rawlins_, 1682.

TO THE

Most Illustrious

THE

ROYAL SOCIETY,

The following

IDEA

Is most HUMBLY

PRESENTED.

AND,

In their NAMES also

PROPOSED

TO THE

_CONSIDERATION_

Of other

Learned Men.

By the AUTHOR

_NEHEMJAH GREW_.

THE
CONTENTS.

_Unto what Degree the knowledge of_ Plants _is arrived, §. 1. Wherein defective, §. 2. Why concluded to be so, §. 3. Yet capable of Improvement, §. 4. And worthy of it, §. 5._

_Divers Instances given, wherein; first of the_ Organical Parts, _as to their external Accidents and Oeconomical Uses, 6. Then of their Contents, Qualities, and Powers, 7. And an_ Improvement _of this Part, will further that of divers other parts of knowledge; whereof Instances are given, 8._

_In order whereto,_ Five General Means _are propounded, 9. The_ First, _a particular and comparative Survey of whatever is of more_ External _consideration about_ Plants, _10. Instanced as to their Figures, 11, 12. Proportions, 13. Seasons, 14. Places, 15. Motions, 16._

_The_ Second, _A like_ Survey _of the_ Organical Parts _by_ Anatomy, _as that which is very necessary, 17. In what manner to be prosecuted, both without, and with the_ Microscope, _18. What thereupon to be observed, 19. And what, from observantion made, probably attainable, 20._

_The_ Third, _A like_ Survey _of the_ Contents _of_ Plants; _their several Kinds, 21. Of all which, their Receptacles, 22. Motions, 23. Qualities, 24. Consistence, 25. Colours, Smells, and Tastes, 26. Where also the same Qualities are to be inquired into, as generally belonging to_ Plants, _26. As their Colours, 27. Odours, 28. Tastes, 29. Also their Faculties, 30. All these to be further examined, 31. By Contusion, 32. Agitation, 33. Frigifaction, 34. Infusion, 35. Subsession, 36. Digestion, 37, 38. Decoction, 39. Destillation, 40. Arefaction, 41. Assation, 42. Ustion, 43. Calcination, 44. By Composition with other Bodies, 45. And by Compounding the Experiment it self, 46. What hence attainable, 47._

_The_ Fourth, _A like_ Survey _of the_ Principles, _as well as of the_ Contents, _of the_ Organical Parts, _48. The Difficulty hereof, in some respects cleared, 49. Further, by two_ Instances, _50, 51. Some Remarques hereupon, of the_ Principles _of_ Plants, _52. From hence will be attainable a further knowledge of the Modes of Vegetation, 53. Of the_ Qualities _of_ Vegetables, _54. And of their Powers, 55, 56._

_The_ Fifth, _A like_ Survey _of those_ Bodies, _either from which these_ Principles _are derived, or wherewith they have any communion, 57. Which are_ Four _in general,_ soil, Earth, _and all solid Receptacles, 58._ Water, _and all liquid Receptacles, 59._ Aer, 60. _And_ Sun, 61.

_A_ Sixth _General Inquiry, only hinted, 62._

_The Conclusion, 63._

AN

IDEA

OF A

Philosophical History

OF

PLANTS.

IF WE take an account of the _Degrees_ whereunto the Knowledge of _Vegetables_ is Advanced, it appeareth, That besides the great Varieties, which the Successful _Arts_ of _Florists_, or Transplantations from one _Climate_ to another, have produced; we have very many _Species_ brought to light, especially Natives of the _Indies_, which the _Ancients_, for any thing that appears in their _Writings_ now extant, were ignorant of. In which particular _Clusius_, _Columna_, _Baubinus_, _Boccone_, and others, have performed much. Withall, That their _Descriptions_ (of all Parts above ground) their _Places_ and _Seasons_, are with good diligence and preciseness set before us. Likewise their Order and Kindred: for the adjusting whereof our Learned Countryman Mr. _Ray_, and Dr. _Morrison_, have both taken very laudable pains. As also the ordering of them with respect to their _Alimental_ and _Mechanick_ Uses; for which, amongst others, Mr. _Evelyn_ and Dr. _Beal_ have deserved many thanks, and great praise. We are also informed, of the _Natures_ and infallible _Faculties_ of _many_ of them. Whereunto so many as have assisted, have much obliged their _Posterity_.

2. §. By due Reflection upon what hath been _Performed_; it also appears, what is left _Imperfect_, and what _Undone_. For the _Virtues_ of most _Plants_, are with much _uncertainty_, and too _promiscuously_ ascribed to them. So that if you turn over an _Herbal_, you shall find almost every _Herb_, to be good for every _Disease_. And of the _Virtues_ of many, they are altogether silent. And although, for the finding out, and just appropriation of them, they have left us some _Rules_, yet not all. The _Descriptions_ likewise of many, are yet to be perfected; especially as to their Roots. Those who are very curious about the other _Parts_, being yet here too remiss. And as for their _Figures_, it were much to be wished, That they were all drawn by one _Scale_; or, at most, by Two; one, for _Trees_ and _Shrubs_; and another for _Herbs_. Many likewise of their _Ranks_ and _Affinities_, are yet undetermined. And a great number of _Names_, both _English_ and _Latine_, not well given. So what we call _Goat’s-Rue_, is not at all of kin to that Plant, whose _Generical Name_ it bears. The like may be said of _Wild-Tansy_, _Stock-July-Flowers_, _Horse-Radish_, and many more. So also when we say _Bellis Major_, & _Minor_, as we commonly do, these _Names_ would intimate, That the _Plants_ to which they are given, differ (as the great double _Marigold_, doth from the less) only in Bulk: whereas, in truth, they are two _Species_ of _Plants_. So we commonly say, _Centaurium Majus & Minus_, _Chelidonium Majus & Minus_, and of others in like manner, which yet are distinct _Species_, and of very different _Tribes_. But for the _Reason_ of _Vegetation_, and the _Causes_ of all those infinite _Varieties_ therein observable (I mean so far as _Matter_, and the various _Affections_ hereof, are instrumental thereunto) almost all Men have seemed to be unconcerned.

3. §. That Nothing hereof remaineth further to be known, is a Thought not well Calculated. For if we consider how long and gradual a _Journey_ the _Knowledge_ of _Nature_ is; and how short a Time we have to proceed therein; as on the one hand, we shall conclude it our ease and profit, To see how far Others have gone before us: so shall we beware on the other, That we conceive not unduly of _Nature_, whilst we have a just value for Those, who were but her _Disciples_, and instructed by Her. Their Time and Abilities both, being short to her; which, as She was first Designed by _Divine Wisdom_; so may Her vast Dimensions best be adjudged of, in being compared Therewith. It will therefore be our Prudence, not to insist upon the Invidious Question, Which of Her _Scholars_ have taken the fairest measure of Her; but to be well satisfied, that as yet She hath not been Circumscribed by Any.

4. §. Nor doth it more behove us to consider, how much of the Nature of _Vegetation_ may lie before us yet _unknown_; Than, to believe, a great part thereof to be _knowable_. Not concluding from the acknowledged, much less supposed Insuccessfulnes, of any Mens Undertakings: but from what may be accounted Possible, as to the Nature of things themselves; and from _Divine Providence_, by Infinite Ways conducting to the knowledge of them. Neither can we determine how great a part This may be: Because, _It is impossible to Measure, what we See not_. And since we are most likely to under-measure, we shall hereby but intrench our Endeavours, which we are not wont to carry beyond the _Idea_, which we have of our _Work_.

5. §. And how far soever this kind of Knowledge may be attainable, its being so far also worthy our attainment will be granted. For beholding the Many and Elegant Varieties, wherewith a Field or Garden is adorned; Who would not say, That it were exceeding pleasant to know what we Se_e_: and not more delightful, to one who has _Eyes_, to discern that all is very fine; than to another who hath _Reason_, to understand _how_. This surely were for a Man to take a True Inventory of his Goods, and his best way to put a price upon them. Yea it seems, that this were not only to be _Partaker of Divine Bounty_; but also, in some degree, _To be Copartner in the Secrets of Divine Art_. That which were very desireable, unless we should think it impertinent for us to design the _Knowing_ of _That_, which _God_ hath once thought fit to _Do_.

6. §. If for these, and other _Reasons_, an inquiry into the Nature of _Vegetation_ may be of good Import; It will be requisite to see, first of all, What may offer it self to be enquired of; or to understand, what our _Scope_ is: That so doing, we may take our aim the better in making, and having made, in applying our Observations thereunto. Amongst other Inquiries therefore, such as these deserve to be proposed. First, by what means it is that a _Plant_, or any _Part_ of it, comes to _Grow_, a _Seed_ to put forth a _Root_ and _Trunk_; and this, all the other _Parts_, to the _Seed_ again; and all these being _formed_, by continual Nutrition still to be _increased_. How the Aliment by which a _Plant_ is fed, is duly prepared in its several _Parts_; which way it is _conveyed_ unto them; and in what manner it is _assimilated_ to their respective Natures in them all. Whence this Growth and Augmentation, is not made of one, but many differing Degrees, unto both extremes of _small_ and _great_; whether the comparison be made betwixt several _Plants_, or the several _Parts_ of one. How not only their _Sizes_, but also their _Shapes_ are so exceeding various; as of _Roots_, in being Thick or Slender, Short or Long, Entire or Parted, Stringed or Ramified, and the like: of _Trunks_, some being more Entire, others Branched, others Shrub’d: of _Leaves_, which are Long or Round, Even-edg’d or Escallop’d, and many other ways different, yet always Flat: and so for the other _Parts_. Then to inquire, What should be the reason of their various _Motions_; that the _Root_ should _descend_; that its descent should sometimes be _perpendicular_, sometimes more _level_: That the _Trunk_ doth _ascend_; and that the ascent thereof, as to the space of _Time_ wherein it is made, is of different _measures_: and of divers other _Motions_, as they are observable in the _Roots_, _Trunks_, and other _Parts_ of _Plants_. Whence again, these _Motions_ have their Different, and Stated _Terms_; that _Plants_ have their set and peculiar _Seasons_ for their _Spring_ or _Birth_, for their _Full Growth_, and for their _Teeming_; and the like. Further, what may be the Causes as of the _Seasons_ of their _Growth_; so of the _Periods_ of their _Lives_; some being _Annual_, others _Biennial_, others _Perennial_; some _Perennial_ both as to their _Roots_ and _Trunks_; and some as to their _Roots_ only. Then, as they pass through these several _Seasons_ of their _Lives_, in what manner their convenient _feeding_, _housing_, _cloathing_ or _protection_ otherwise, is contrived; wherein, in this kind and harmonious _Oeconomy_, one _Part_, may be officious to another, for the preservation of the health and life of the _whole_. And lastly, what care is taken, not only for themselves, but for their _Posterity_; in what manner the _Seed_ is prepared, formed and fitted for _Propagation_: and this being of so great concernment, how sometimes the other _Parts_ also, as _Roots_, in putting forth _Trunks_; _Trunks_ in putting forth _Roots_; yea in turning oftentimes into _Roots_ themselves; whereof, in the _Second Book of the Anatomy of Plants_, I shall give some instances. With other _Heads_ of Inquiry of this kind.

7. §. Nor are the _Natures_, _Faculties_, and _Contents_ of _Vegetables_ less various, or a particular Inspection hereinto, of less concernment. For since All, or Most, seem to grow in the same manner, with one _Sun_, one _Rain_, indifferently well upon one _Soil_, and, to outward appearance, to have the same _Common Parts_; it may be asked, _How_ it comes to pass that their _Liquors_, or other _Contained Parts_, are of such different _Kinds_; one being _Watry_, another _Winy_, a third _Oily_, a fourth _Milky_, and the like. _How_ also there is such a variety in their _Sensible Qualities_, as their _Colours_, _Tastes_, and _Smells_; what those _Materials_ are, which are necessary to the _Being_ of these _Qualities_; and those _Formalities_, wherein their _Essence_ doth consist; as what it is that makes a _Plant_, or _Flower_, to be _white_ or _red_; _fragrant_ or _fetid_; _bitter_ or _sweet_; or to be of any other _Colour_, _Smell_, or _Taste_. In like manner, their _Faculties_ and _Powers_, what that is, or those things are, by which they are constituted; as whence one becomes _Purgative_, another _Vomitory_, a third _Diaphoretick_, _&c._, These, I say, with many other particular Inquiries depending hereupon; as they cannot but much oblige the Reason of Man to be obsequious to them, so by bringing in, at least, some satisfaction, will no less reward it. Especially, if it be withal considered, that besides our satisfaction as to the _Nature_ of _Vegetation_; some further Light, to divers other parts of Knowledge, may likewise hence arise.

8. § For since the present Design will ingage us, to an accurate and multifarious Observation of _Plants_; we may hereby be enabled to _range_ and _sort_ them with more certainty, according to the Degrees of their _Affinity_. And all _Exoticks_, _Plants_ or _Parts_ of _Plants_, may probably be reduced to some such _Domesticks_, unto which they may bear the best Resemblance. Again, it may frequently conduct our minds to the consideration of the _State_ of _Animals_; as whether there are not divers material Agreements betwixt them both; and what they are. _Wherein_ also they may considerably differ, and what those things are which are more essential to their distinguishment. And _besides_, not only to compare what is already known of both; but also, by what may be observed in the _one_, to suggest and facilitate the finding out of what may yet be unobserved in the _other_. So _also_ the consideration of the _Colours_, _Smells_, and _Tastes_ of _Vegetables_, may conduce to the Knowledge of the same _Qualities_ in General; or of what it is, that constitutes them such, in any other Body: not as they are _actually_ received by _Sense_; but so far, as such _Materials_ or external _Circumstances_, are requisite to their becoming the _Adequate Objects_ thereof. _It may_ lead us also to inquire into further Ways of _Cultivation_, with respect to the whole _Plant_, or to the _Flower_, _Fruit_, or other _Part_: To amend them as to their _Sizes_, _Colours_, _Tastes_, _Fruitfulness_, or otherwise: To think of other Ways of _Propagation_; or to apply those already known to other _Plants_ than hath been used. Likewise the Knowledge of their _Mechanical_ Uses may hereby be enlarged; both as to the Reason of their use, in such particular _Trades_ and _Manufactures_, already known; and the discovery of other uses yet unknown. As also their _Alimental_, with respect both to _Meats_ and _Drinks_; the preparation of some, and the finding out of others. But especially their _Medicinal_; some _Plants_ which have hitherto been neglected, may be applied to use; the _Perverted_ uses of some, and the _Confused_ uses of others, may be rectified. What may best correct their _Malignancies_, or inforce their _Virtues_; When needful to add the preparations of _Art_ to That of _Nature_; How to Enlarge those of _Art_, and Rectifie those which are indeed Inartificial, may hereby be better conjectured. The knowledge of all which, that we may know how far it is accessible, and what probable Approaches may be made towards it; those several Means I have thought of, and suppose necessary thereunto, are next to be proposed.

9. §. Reflecting then upon the present Design, and seeing this to lie wide; we shall, in the first place, conclude the _Means_ attending thereon, should do so likewise. Wherefore, although some may present themselves unto us as more promising; yet let us suppose what several Persons, were they hereunto engaged, each according to his Sense and Genius, would possibly make choice of. Believing, that although Considering Men may vary, in the approval of their own Sense and Notion; yet not always mearly, because it is their own; but because each, may probably see somewhat more in his own, than others do. Wherefore it will be our surest Logick to conclude, Not because no _Mean_ may be approved by all Men, that all _Means_ should be rejected; but rather, because each may be approved by some, that therefore, all be made choice of. And these, I think, may be comprehended under Five General _Heads_ of Enquiry. _First_, Of those Things, which are of more _External_ Consideration about _Plants_, as their _Figures_, _&c._ _Secondly_, Of their Compounding _Parts_, as _Vessels_, _&c._ _Thirdly_, Of their _Liquors_, and other _Contents_. _Fourthly_, Of their _Principles_, as _Salts_, _&c._ _Fifthly_, Of their _Aliment_, as _Water_, and other Means of Growth.

10. §. AND FIRST of all, whatever is of more _External_ Consideration, ♦ The First General _Mean_. ♦ as the _Figures_, _Proportions_, _Motions_, _Seasons_, _Situations_ of _Vegetables_, and of their several _Parts_, should be observed. In doing which, a particular survey of all their Varieties should be taken. And then a Comparison made betwixt these, and the several _Plants_, or _Parts_ of _Plants_, whereof they are the _Properties_. To the end, We may, if possible, be thereby conducted to find out, what other, either sensible, or more recluse _Property_, any of them may agree together in. For it is not more certain, that the three Angles of every _Rectilinear Triangle_, because all ways equal to two _Right Angles_, are therefore, if put together, always the same: than that _one Property_, agreeing to divers _Vegetables_, should have one _Cause_: For although the _Scope_ and _End_ may vary; yet the _Cause_, as it is the _Cause_ of that _Property_, must be _one_: and consequently, must also import some _Identity_ in the _Nature_ of all those _Vegetables_ wherein it Acts. Wherefore by thus comparing of them, we shall be able more exactly to state the _Orders_ and _Degrees_ of their _Affinities_; Better to understand both the _Causes_ and _Ends_ of their _Varieties_: And more probably to conjecture of their _Natures_ and _Vertues_.

11. §. First then the various _Figures_ of their several _Parts_ should be observed; and that with respect both to the _Forms_, and the _Positions_, by which their _Roots_, _Trunks_, _Branches_, _Leaves_, _Flowers_, _Fruits_, and _Seeds_ may vary, or agree; and those several _Lines_, by which both the said _Varieties_ are determin’d. In which of these _Parts_, the agreement chiefly lies; this being both more observable, and more material in some of them; less in the Root, more in the Flower, or Seed. And in how many of these _Parts_ together; whether one, more, or all. By both which, the _Orders_ and _Degrees_ of _Affinity_, which are many, may be accounted; either as to what we strictly call _Kindred_, or else _Analogy_. For there are found, not only _Herbs_ accounted of several _Tribes_, which are ally’d; and some of the Smallest, which are of kin to the Greatest: But there are also, probably, some _Herbs_, which have a particular Relation, to many Kinds of _Shrubs_; and some _Shrubs_, to many Kinds of _Trees_. Thus the several sorts of _Letuce_, are of Kin, together in the _First Degree_; with _Endive_, in the _Second_. The several _Clarys_, amongst themselves in the _First_; with _Horehound_, in the _Second_; with _Lamium_, in the _Third_. All _Strawberries_ agree together, in the _First_ Degree; with _Cinquefoyl_, in the _Second_; with _Tormentil_ in the _Third_; and with _Avens_, _&c._ in other Degrees more remote. So _Agrimony_, hath alike Analogy unto _Strawberry_; as _Goats-Rue_, hath to _Claver_: And _Strawberry_, the like unto the _Rasp_; as _Goosberry_ to the _Vine_; or _Burnet_, to the _Rose_. Amongst the several _Sorts_ of _Grass_, there are some which match all those of _Corn_; which is but a greater kind of _Grass_. So again all _Pulse_, are not only of kin, in their several Degrees, to one another; but likewise, to almost all kinds of _Trefoyls_, as _Melilot_, _Fœnugreek_, and the common _Clavers_ themselves; as by comparing not only their _Leaves_, but _Flowers_, _Seeds_, and _Cods_ together, may be evident. For the several _parts_ of the _Flower_ of a _Trefoyl_, are so many more _Flowers_, containing so many _Cods_ of small _Seeds_, all, in shape, agreeable to the _Flowers_, _Cods_, and _Seeds_ of _Pulse_. The same Relation, which _Trefoyls_ have to the _Peas_ or other _Pulse_; _Colts-foot_, hath to _Buttyr-Bur_; _Chickweed_ to _Leucanthemum_; _Groundsell_, to _Jacobæa_; or _Scorodonia_, to _Foxglove_: Or, to go higher, as the _Leguminous_ Kinds of _Herbs_, have to _Sena_, or some other of the _Lobed Shrubs_ and _Trees_. And, as among _Animals_, there are some which connect several Kinds; as the _Batt_ doth _Beasts_ and _Birds_: So, among _Plants_, there are some also, which seem to stand between two _Tribes_; as _Lappa_, between _Knapweeds_ and _Thistles_; _Lampsana_, between the _Intybaceous_ Kind, and the _Mouse-ears_.

12. §. From hence likewise, the _Natures_ of _Plants_ may be conjectured. For in looking upon divers _Plants_, though of different _Names_ and _Kinds_; yet if some affinity may be found betwixt them, then the _Nature_ of any one of them being well known, we have thence ground of conjecture, as to the _Nature_ of all the rest. So that as every _Plant_ may have somewhat of _Nature individual_ to it self; so, as far as it obtaineth any _Visible Communities_ with other _Plants_, so far, may it partake of _Common Nature_ with those also. Thus the _Wild_, and _Garden Cucumers_, have this difference; that the one _purgeth_ strongly, the other, _not at all_: yet in being _Diuretick_, they both agree. The _Natures_ of _Umbelliferous Plants_, we know, are various; yet ’tis most probable, that they all agree in this one, _scil._ in being _Carminative_. The several sorts, both of _Corn_ and _Grass_, are all akin; there is no doubt therefore, but that the _Seeds_ of _Grass_ themselves (of _Rye_ and _Oats_ it is tryed) if it were worth the while to order them, as _Barley_, would yield an inflammable Spirit. So likewise the several Kinds of _Pulse_, have some one community in their Form, as is said: for which reason, I question not, but that in some Cases, wherein _Cicers_ are esteemed a good _Medicine_; a _Decoction_ of the better sort of _Pease_, especially that we call the _Sugar-Pease_, may go beyond them. As doth also the _Flower_ or _Meal_ of _Beans_, that of the _Seeds_ of _Fœnugreek_; even there, where they are accounted excellent. So _Tulips_, _Lillies_, _Crocuses_, _Jacynths_, and _Onions_ themselves, with many others, in their several Degrees, are all _allied_. If therefore _Crocuses_, _Onions_, _Lillies_, agree in one or more _Faculties_, then why may not all the rest? as in being _Anodyne_; or in some other _Common Nature_; whereby, in their _Vegetation_, their _Parts_ are Governed and Over-ruled, to one Common or _Analogous Form_.

13. §. The _Proportions_ likewise, amongst the several _Parts_ of _Vegetables_, for the same Reasons, deserve to be observed; the comparison being made, both betwixt the _Parts_ of several _Plants_, and the several _Parts_ of one. And here again, either betwixt any Two of the _Parts_, or any One of them, and the Whole besides, or all the rest put together. So some larger _Seeds_, produce a small _Root_; as those of _Cucumer_: and others smaller, produce one very great; as those of _Bryony_. Some _Plants_, as the _Melon_, though themselves but very slender, yet have a vast and bulky _Fruit_; others again, as _Thistles_, and many yet more substantial, have no other _Fruit_, besides their _Seed_. So the _Seeds_ of all _Pulse_, and especially, the _Garden Bean_, though large, yet produce but a small _Plant_: but those of _Foxglove_, _Mullen_, _Burdock_, _Sun-flower_, _&c._ being themselves much less, do yet produce a far greater. And especially, those _Seeds_, which are inclosed in the Thicker sort of _Cover_, (analogous to that I have elsewhere called the _Secondine_) as that of _Peony_; ♦ Anat. Plant. Book I. Chap. ult. ♦ whose _Seed_, so called, is only the _Nest_ wherein the true and real _Seed_ is lodged, no bigger than a little Pins head: which is also observable of the _Seeds_ of divers other _Plants_. These, and the like _Proportions_, as they lie betwixt the several _Parts_, should be noted: and to what _Plants_ or _Parts_ especially, any of them may agree: comparing also in what other kind of _Properties_ an agreement betwixt the said _Parts_ may be found: that so doing, we may, if possible, amongst all their _Individual Natures_, be instructed to single out those _Common Ones_, which are concomitant to such Agreeing _Properties_.

14. §. The several _Seasons_ also of _Plants_, and of their _Parts_, should be considered. Observing at what particular Times of the Year, any of them chiefly _Spring_, Early or Late. The Times wherein they _Germinate_; whether for some Space only, or all the Year long. Wherein they _Spring_, after Sowing; or _Flower_, after Springing, sooner, or slower. Which Flower, the _first_ Year, or not till the _second_. Which _after_ the _Leaves_ are put forth, or _before_ them; for so, some do, as the _Crocus Vernus_, _Bears-foot_, _Hepatica aurea_, and others; all the _Leaves_, at the time of their flowering, being old, or of the foregoing Year’s growth. So likewise the _Maturation_ of the _Fruit_ or _Seed_; how long after the _Flower_, and the like. All or some of which _Varieties_, being laid together, we may probably conjecture the _Causes_ thereof, and the _Natures_ of the _Plants_ in which they are seen: _scil._ as such a Degree of Heat may be necessary for the Fermentation, or the better Distribution of the _Sap_ of such a _Plant_; or for the Impregnation of the _Aer_, to be mixed therewith; or the due Disposing of the _Soil_, to render the most convenient Aliment thereunto. So the _Principles_ of such _Plants_, which flower all the Year, may be more equally proportion’d. Those which flower before the _Leaves_ put forth, as the _Crocus Vernus_, and those which flower in _Spring_, may be accounted _Rank_, and full of _Volatile Salt_. But _Autumn Plants_ especially, to abound with a Fixed: and the like.

15. §. The proper _Places_ also of _Plants_, or such wherein they have, from their _Seeds_, or other way of _Propagation_, a Spontaneous growth, should be considered. And that as to the _Climate_; whether in one Colder, Temperate, or more Hot. The _Region_; Continent, or Island. The _Seat_; as Sea, or Land, Watry, Boggy, or Dry; Hills, Plains, or Vallies; Open, in Woods, or under Hedges; Against _Walls_, rooted in them, or on their Tops: and the like. And perhaps the _Seeds_ of some _Plants_, as of _Mosses_, (which, through their smallness, will ascend like Moths in the Sun) may fly or swim for some time, in the Aer, _viz._ till they begin to shoot, and so become heavy enough, to fall down upon the Ground. From whence, in like manner, as from their _Seasons_, their particular _Natures_ may be directed unto. In that, so far as we may conjecture the nature of such an _Aer_, _Soil_, or _Seat_, we may also of such a _Plant_, to which they are _congenial_.

16. §. So likewise, those many Varieties observable in the _Motions_ of _Plants_, and of their Parts, both Kinds and Degrees; _Ascending_, _Descending_, and _Horizontal_; _Rectilinear_, and _Spiral Motions_, should be noted; to what _Plants_ they agree, and wherein any of these Motions may be analogous to those of _Animals_. And in a word, any other _Forensick Properties_ of _Plants_. And then, to Compare them all together; both being necessary. For _Thoughts_ cannot work upon nothing, no more than _Hands_. He that will build an House, must provide Materials. And on the contrary, the Materials will never become an House, unless, by certain Rules, we joyn them all together. So, it is not, _simply_, the Knowledge of _many things_, but a multifarious Copulation of them in the Mind, that becomes prolifick of further Knowledge. And thus much for the first General _Mean_.

17. §. THE NEXT which I propose, and that a most necessary one, is _Anatomy_. ♦ The Second General _Mean_. ♦ For when upon the Dissection of _Vegetables_, we see so great a difference in them, that not only their Outward _Figures_, but also their Inward _Structure_, is so Elegant; and in all, so Various; it must needs lead us thus to Think, That these Inward _Varieties_, were either to no _End_; or if they were, we must assign to what. To imagine the first, were exceeding vain; as if _Nature_, the Handmaid of _Divine Wisdom_, should with Her fine _Needle_ and _Thred_, stitch up so many several _Pieces_, of so difficult, and yet so groundless a Work. But if for some _End_, then either only to be looked upon, or some other besides. If for this only, then this must be such as in respect whereof, Her Work is at no time, nor in any degree frustrate; the contrary whereunto, is most manifest. For although Men do every where, with frequent pleasure, behold the Outward Elegancies of _Plants_; yet the Inward Ones, which, generally, are as Precise and Various as the Outward; we see, how usual it is, for the beholding of These, to be omitted by them. And besides, when we have observed _Nature’s_ Work, as well as we can; it may be no impediment to our best Endeavours, to believe, That some Parts of it, will still remain behind, _Unseen_. So that if to be _Seen_, were the only End of it, it must needs be wholly frustrate, as to the greater number of Men; and, in some part, as to all. Wherefore, we must suppose some other _Ends_ of the said Varieties, which should have their _Effect_, and so These, not be in vain, whether Men beheld them or not; which, are, therefore, such as have respect to _Vegetation_: That the _Corn_ might grow, _so_; and the _Flower_, _so_, whether or no Men had a mind, leisure, or ability, to understand _how_.

18. §. If then the _Anatomy_ of _Vegetables_ be so useful a _Mean_, we ought not to streighten it; but to force this, as well as the rest, to its utmost Extent. And therefore, first of all, To go through all the _Parts_, with equal care; examining the _Root_, _Trunk_, _Branch_, _Leaf_, _Flower_, _Fruit_, and _Seed_. Then to Repeat or Retrograde the Dissection, from _Part_ to _Part_: in that, although the best Method of Delivery, for clear Discourse, can be but one, according to that of _Nature_, from the _Seed_ forward, to the _Seed_: yet can it not but be useful, for That of Dissection, to proceed _to_ and _fro_; somewhat or other being more Visible in each several _Part_, from whence still an Hint may be taken, for the ushering in the observation of it in the others. To examine, again, not only all the _Parts_,but _Kinds_ of _Vegetables_, and comparatively, to observe divers of the same _size_, _shape_, _motion_, _age_, _sap_, _quality_, _power_, or any other way the _same_, which may also agree, in some one or more particulars, as to their _Interiour Structure_: and to make this comparison, throughout all their _Parts_ and _Properties_. To observe them likewise, in several _Seasons_ of the Year, and in several _Ages_ of the _Plants_, and of their _Parts_; in both which, divers of them may be noted to change, not only their _Dimensions_, but their _Natures_ also; as _Vessels_, do into _Ligaments_; and _Cartilages_, into _Bones_, sometimes, in _Animals_. And to do all this by several Ways of _Section_, Oblique, Perpendicular, and Transverse; all three being requisite, if not to Observe, yet the better to Comprehend, some Things. And it will be convenient sometimes to Break, Tear, or otherwise Divide, without a _Section_. Together with the _Knife_ it will be necessary to joyn the _Microscope_; and to examine all the _Parts_, and every Way, in the use of That. As also, that both Immediate, and Microscopical Inspections, be Compared: since it is certain, That some things, may be demonstrated by Reason and the Eye conjunct, without a Glass, which cannot be discovered by it; or else the discovery is so dark, as which, alone, may not be safely depended on.

19. §. By these several Ways of Inspection, it will be requisite, To observe their Compounding _Parts_; as _Simply_ considered, and as variously _Proportioned_, and _Disposed_. As _Simply_ considered, to note their _Number_; what, and whether the same, in all: their _Kinds_, wherein different in the same, or divers _Vegetables_: their _Original_, in part, or in whole: _Structure_, as to their _Contexture_ and their _Cavities_; Their _Contexture_, within themselves severally, and as joyned together: their _Cavities_, as to their _Size_, _Shape_, and _Number_; in which a great variety will be found. Next their _Positions_ one amongst another, which are also various; as Anterior, Posterior, Collateral, Surrounding, Mediate, Immediate, Near, Remote; both as they respect the several _Parts_, and the several portions of one: And all these, as few, or more; these or others of them, may be diversely Compounded together. And then the _Proportions_ they bear one to another; whether as to Minority, Equality, or Excess; each _Part_ compared with each, and that as to the several Degrees appearing in the said _Proportions_; the Varieties whereof may be exceeding numerous. For if we should suppose but _Four_ considerable _Parts_ generally constitutive of a _Vegetable_: These _Four_, produce a Variety _Four_ ways. First, when One is Unequal; and then it produceth only _Four_ Varieties: and those two ways, _scil._ when one is Greater, and the other three, Equal and Less; or when one is Less; and the other three, Equal and Greater. Secondly, when Two be Unequal; and then they produce _Six_ Varieties. Thirdly, when Three be Unequal, which produceth _Twelve_ Varieties. Or lastly, when all Four be Unequal; which produceth _Twenty four_: which general Varieties, may be further multiplied by their several Degrees.

20. §. From all which, we may come to know, what the _Communities_ of _Vegetables_ are, as belonging to all; what their _Distinctions_, to such a Kind; their _Properties_, to such a Species; and their _Peculiarities_, to such Particular ones. And as in _Metaphysical_, or other Contemplative Matters, when we have a distinct knowledge of the _Communities_ and _Differences_ of Things, we may then be able to give their true _Definitions_: so may we possibly, here attain, to do likewise: not only to know, That every _Plant_ Inwardly differs from another, but also wherein; so as not more surely to Define by the Outward _Figure_, than by the Inward _Structure_, What that is, or those things are, whereby any _Plant_, or Sort of _Plants_, may be distinguished from all others. And having obtained a knowledge of the _Communities_ and _Differences_ amongst the _Parts_ of _Vegetables_; it may conduct us through a _Series_ of more facile and probable _Conclusions_, of the ways of their _Causality_, as to the _Communities_ and _Differences_ of _Vegetation_. And thus much for the Second General _Mean_.