Chapter IV: Book 4: Anatomy of Leaves, Flowers, Fruits and Seeds (3)

_THis also to be Dissected, §. 1. The_ Skin _hereof, its Original, 2. The_ Cortical Body, _its Original, 3._ Texture, _4._ Pores, _5._ Proportions, _6. The_ Lignous Body, _its Original, 7. Texture, 8. Proportions, 9. The_ Insertment, _its Original, 10. Pores, 11. Number and Size, 12. A fuller description hereof, with that of the Osculations of the_ Lignous Body, _13, 14, 15. The_ Pith, _its original sometimes from the_ Seed, _16. Sometimes from the_ Barque, _17. Its_ Pores, _18, 19. Proportions, 20._ Fibres _of the_ Lignous Body _therein, 21. The_ Pith _of those_ Fibres, _22. How the_ Root _grows, and the use of the_ Skin, Cortical _and_ Lignous Body _thereto, 23. How it groweth in length, 24. By what means it descends, 25. How it grows in breadth, 26. And the_ Pith, _how thus framed, 27. The use of the_ Pith, _27. Of the_ Insertment, 28. _The joynt service of all the Parts, 29, 30, 31._

CHAP. III.

_Of the Trunk._

_THE_ Coarcture, _§. 1. The_ Skin, _its original, 2. The original of the_ Cortical Body, _3. Of the_ Lignous, _4. Of the_ Insertment _and_ Pith, _5. The Latitudinal Shooting of the_ Lignous Body, _wherein observable, 6, 7. The_ Pores _of the_ Lignous Body, _where and how most remarkable, 8. A lesser sort of_ Pores, _9. A third sort only visible through a_ Microscope. _Observed in Wood or Charcoal, 10. Observed in the Fibres of the Trunks of_ Herbs, _11. The_ Insertions, _where more visible, 12, 13. Their Weftage with the_ Lignous Body, _14. The smaller_ Insertions, _only visible through a_ Microscope, _15. No_ Valves _in a_ Plant, _16. The Ranks of the_ Pores _of the_ Insertions, _17. The_ Pores _of the_ Pith, _18, 19, 20. How the_ Trunk _ascends, 21. The disposition of its_ Parts _consequent to that Ascent, 22. Consequent to the different Nature of the_ Sap, _23. The effects of the said Differences, 24, to 28. Which way, and how the_ Sap _ascends, 29, to the end._

_The Appendix._

_Of Trunk-Roots and Claspers._

Trunk-Roots _of two kinds, §. 1, 2._ Claspers _of one kind, 3. The Uses of both, 4, to the end._

CHAP. IV.

_Of the Bud, Branch, and Leaf._

_THE Parts of the_ Germen _and_ Branch _the same with those of the_ Trunk, _§. 1, 2. The manner of their growth, 3. How nourished, 4. And the use of Knots, 5. How secur’d, 6. The Parts of a Leaf, 7. The Positions of the_ Fibres _of the Stalks of Leaves, 8. For what Uses, 9, 10. The visible cause of the different circumference of Leaves, 11. And of their being flat, 12. And filamentous, 13. The Foulds of Leaves, their Kinds and Use, 14, 15, 16. The Protections of Leaves, 17. The use of the Leaf, 18, to the end._

_The Appendix._

_Of Thorns, Hairs and Globulets._

Thorns _of two Kinds; the_ Lignous, _§. 1. The_ Cortical, _2. An argument of the_ Magnetick Descent _of the_ Cortical Body, _3._ Hairs _of divers Kinds, 4, 5. Their Use, 6._ Globulets _of two Kinds, 7, 8._

CHAP. V.

_Of the Flower._

_ITs three Parts, §. 1. The Impalement, of divers kinds, 2. Their use, 3, 4. The_ Foliation, _its nature, 5. Foulds, 6. Protections, 7. Downs, 8, 9. Globulets, 10. Its Use, 11, 12. The_ Attire _of two kinds. The Description of the first, 13, 14, 15, 16. Of the other, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21. Their use, 22, to the end._

CHAP. VI.

_Of the Fruit._

_THE Vital Parts of all, the same, §. 1. The Number, Description, and Original of the Parts of an_ Apple, _2. Of a_ Pear, _3, 4. Of a_ Plum, _5, 6, 7. Of a_ Nut, _8. Of a_ Berry, _9. The use of the Fruit, 10, to the end._

CHAP. VII.

_Of the Seed in its State of Generation._

_WHat here further observed, not in the First Chapter, §. 1. The_ Case, _its Figures, 2. The outer Coat, its Figures, 3. Various Surface, 4. And Mucilages, 5. The nature of the outer Coat, 6. Its Apertures, 7. Next to which the Radicle usually placed, 8. The Original of the Outer_ Coat, _9. The Original of the Inner, 10. Its Nature, 11, 12. The Essential Parts of a_ Plant, _13, 14. The_ Secondine, _15. The_ Colliquamentum _herein, 16. The_ Navel Fibres, _17. In the Generation of the_ Seed, _the_ Sap _first prepared in the_ Seed-Branch, _18, 19. Next in the inner_ Coat, _20. With the help of the Outer, 21, 22. The use of the_ Secondine, _23. Of the Ramulets of the_ Seed-Branch, _24. Of their_ Inosculation, _25. How the_ Colliquamentum _becometh a_ Parenchyma, _26, to the end._

THE

ANATOMY

OF

PLANTS,

BEGUN.

With a General Account of _Vegetation_,
Founded thereupon.

CHAP. I.

_Of the Seed in its State of Vegetation._

BEING to speak of _Plants_; and, as far as Inspection, and consequent Reason, may conduct, to enquire into the visible _Constitutions_, and _Uses_ of their several _Parts_: I choose that Method, which, to the best advantage, may suit with what we have to say hereon. And that is the Method of Nature her self, in her continued Series of _Vegetations_; proceeding from the _Seed sown_, to the formation of the _Root_, _Trunk_, _Branch_, _Leaf_, _Flower_, _Fruit_, and last of all, of the _Seed_ also to be _sown again_; all which, we shall, in the same order, particularly speak of.

2. §. The _Essential Constitutions_ of the said _Parts_ are in all _Plants_ the same: But for Observation, some are more convenient; in which I shall chiefly instance. And first of all, for the _Seed_, we choose the great _Garden-Bean_.

3. §. If then we take a _Bean_ and dissect it, we shall find it cloathed with a doubled _Vest_ or _Coat_. These _Coats_, while the _Bean_ is yet green, are separable, and easily distinguished. Or in an old one, after it hath lay’n two or three days in a mellow Soil; or been soaked as long a time in Water: as in _Tab. 1_. ♦ _Tab. 1. f. 2._ ♦ When ’tis dry, they cleave so closely together, that the Eye not before instructed, will judge them but one; the inner _Coat_ (which is of the most rare contexture) so far shrinking up, as to seem only the roughness of the outer, somewhat resembling _Wafers_ under _Maquaroons_.

4. §. The Inner _Coat_, in its Natural State, is every where twice, and in some places, thrice as thick, as the Outer. Next to the _Radicle_, which I shall presently describe, it is six or seven times thicker; and encompasses the _Radicle_ round about, as in the same _Figure_ appears. ♦ _Tab. 1. f. 2._ ♦

5. §. At the thicker end of the _Bean_, in the outer _Coat_, a very small _Foramen_ presents it self, even to the bare Eye. In Dissection ’tis found to terminate against the point of that _Part_ which I call the _Radicle_. ♦ _Tab. 1. f. 1–2._ ♦ It is of that capacity, as to admit a small _Virginal_ Wyer; and is most of all conspicuous in a green _Bean_. Especially, if a little magnified with a good _Spectacle-Glass_. This _Foramen_ is not a hole casually made, or by the breaking off of the Stalk; but designedly formed, for the uses hereafter mentioned. It may be observed not only in the great _Garden-Bean_, but likewise in the other _kinds_; in the _French-Bean_ very plainly; in _Pease_, _Lupines_, _Vetches_, _Lentiles_, and other _Pulse_ ’tis also found; and in many _Seeds_ not reckoned of this kindred, as in that of _Fœnugreek_, _Medica Tornata_, _Goats-Rue_, and others: In many of which, ’tis so very small, as scarcely, without the help of _Glasses_ to be discovered; and in some, not without cutting off part of the _Seed_, which otherwise would intercept the light hereof.

6. §. That this _Foramen_ is truly permeable, even in old _Setting-Beans_, and the other _Seeds_ above named, appears upon their being soaked for some time in Water. For then, taking them out, and crushing them a little, many small bubles will alternately arise and break upon it.

7. §. Of all _Seeds_ which have thick or hard _Covers_, it is also observable, That they have the same likewise _Perforated_, as above said, or in some other manner. And accordingly, although the _Coats_ of such _Seeds_ as are lodg’d in _Shells_ or _Stones_, being thin, are not visibly _perforated_; yet the _Stones_ and _Shells_ themselves always are; as in _Chap. 7._ shall be seen how. To which _Chapter_, what is farther observable, either as to the nature and number of the _Covers_ of the _Seed_, I also refer.

8. §. The _Coats_ of the _Bean_ being stripp’d off, the proper _Seed_ shews it self; The parts whereof it is composed, are three; _sc._ the _Main Body_, and two more, appendant to it; which we may call the Three _Organical Parts_ of the _Bean_.

9. §. The _Main Body_ is not one entire piece, but always divided, lengthwise, into two halves or _Lobes_, which are both joyn’d together at the _Basis_ of the _Bean_. These _Lobes_ in dry _Beans_, are but difficultly separated or observ’d; ♦ _Tab. 1. f. 2, 3._ ♦ but in young ones, especially boil’d, they easily slip asunder.

10. §. Some very few _Seeds_ are divided, not into two _Lobes_, but into more; as that of _Cresses_ into Six. ♦ _Tab. 1. f. 4. f. 5._ ♦ And some are not at all divided, but entire; as the Grains of _Corn_. Excepting which few, all other _Seeds_, even the smallest, are divided, like as the _Bean_, into just two _Lobes_. Whereof, though in most _Seeds_, because of their minuteness, we cannot by dissection be inform’d; yet otherwise, we easily may, as in this _Chapter_ shall be seen.

11. §. At the _Basis_ of the _Bean_, the two other _Organical Parts_ stand appendent; by mediation whereof, the two _Lobes_ meet and join together. The greater of these two _Parts_ stands without the two _Lobes_, and upon divesting the _Bean_ of its _Coats_, is immediately visible. ♦ _Tab. 1. f. 2. & 3_ a ♦ ’Tis of a white colour, and more glossie than the _Main Body_, especially when the _Bean_ is young. In the _Bean_, and many other _Seeds_, ’tis situated somewhat above the thicker end, as you hold the _Bean_ in its most proper posture for growth. In _Oak-Kernels_, which we call _Acorns_, _Apple-Kernels_, _Almonds_, and many other _Seeds_, it stands prominent just from the end; ♦ _Tab. 1. f. 6_ c. ♦ the _Basis_ and the _End_ being in these the same, but in the _Bean_ divers.

12 §. This _Part_ is found not only in the _Bean_, and the _Seeds_ above mentioned; but in all others: being that, which upon the Vegetation of the _Seed_, becomes the _Root_ of the _Plant_; which therefore may be called the _Radicle_: by which, I mean the Materials, abating the Formality, of a _Root_. In _Corn_, it is that _Part_, which _Malsters_, upon its shooting forth, call the _Come_. ’Tis not easie to be observed, saving in some few _Seeds_, amongst which, that of the _Bean_ is the most fair and ample of all I have seen. But that of some other _Seeds_, is, in proportion, greater; ♦ _Tab. 1. f. 7_ e. ♦ as of _Fœnugreek_, which is full as big as one of its _Lobes_.

13. §. The lesser of the two said Appendents lies occult between the two _Lobes_ of the _Bean_, by separation whereof only it is to be seen. ’Tis enclos’d in two small _Cavities_, form’d in the _Lobes_ for its reception. ♦ _Tab. 1. f. 3_ b. ♦ Its colour comes near to that of the _Radicle_; and it is founded upon the _Basis_ thereof, having a quite contrary production, _sc._ towards the _Cone_ of the _Bean_; as being that very _Part_, which, in process, becomes the _Body_ or _Trunk_, of the _Plant_. In _Corn_, it is that _Part_, which after the _Radicle_ is sprouted forth, or _come_, shoots towards the smaller end of the _Grain_; and by many _Malsters_, is called the _Acrospire_.

14. §. This _Part_ is not, like the _Radicle_, an entire Body, but divided, at its loose end, into divers pieces, all very closely couched together, as Feathers in a Bunch; for which reason it may be called the _Plume_. They are so close, that only two or three of the outmost are at first seen: but upon a nice and curious separation of these, the more interiour still may be discovered. In the _Bean_, this may be done: but in very few other _Seeds_; because of the extreme smallness of the _Plume_. Now as the _Plume_ is that _Part_ which becomes the _Trunk_ of the _Plant_, so these pieces are so many true, and already formed, though not display’d _Leaves_, intended for the said _Trunk_, and foulded up in the same _plicature_, wherein upon the sprouting of the _Bean_, they afterwards appear. In a _French Bean_, and especially in the larger white Kind, or in the great _Indian Phaseolus_, the two outmost are very fair and elegant. ♦ _Tab. 1. f. 8_ b. ♦ In the great _Garden-Bean_ two extraordinary small _Plumes_ often, if not always, stand one on either side the great one now describ’d: From which, in that they differ in nothing save in their size, I therefore only here just take notice of them. And these three Parts, _sc._ the _Main Body_, the _Radicle_, and the _Plume_, are concurrent to the making up of a _Seed_; and no more than these.

15. §. Having thus taken a view of the _Organical Parts_ of the _Bean_, and other _Seeds_; let us next examine the _Similary_, _sc._ those whereof the _Organical_ are compos’d: a distinct observation of which, for a clear understanding of the _Vegetation_ of the _Seed_, and of the whole _Plant_ arising thence is requisite: To obtain which, we must proceed in our _Anatomy_.

16. §. Dissecting a _Bean_ then, the first _Part_ occurring is its _Cuticle_. The Eye and first Thoughts, suggest it to be only a more dense and glossy Superficies; but better enquiry discovers it a real _Cuticle_. ’Tis so exquisitely thin, and for the most part, so firmly continuous with the Body of the _Bean_, that it cannot, except in some small Rag, be distinctly seen, which, by carrying your Knife aslant into the _Bean_, and then very gently bearing upward what you have cut, will separate, and shew it self transparent. This _Cuticle_ is not only spread upon the _Convex_ of the _Lobes_, but also on their _Flats_, where they are contiguous, extending it self likewise upon both the _Radicle_ and _Plume_, and so over the whole _Bean_.

17. §. This _Part_, though it be so far common with the _Coats_ of the _Bean_, as to be like those, an _Integument_; yet are we in a quite different Notion to conceive of it: For whereas the _Coats_, upon setting the _Bean_, do only administer the _Sap_, and, as being superseded from their Office, then die; as shall be seen: this, on the contrary, with the _Organical Parts_ of the _Bean_, is nourished, augmented, and by a real _Vegetation_ co-extended.

18. §. Next to the _Cuticle_, we come to the _Parenchyma_ it self; the _Part_ throughout which _the Inner Body_, whereof we shall speak anon, is disseminated; for which reason I call it the _Parenchyma_. Not that we are so meanly to conceive of it, as if (according to the stricter sense of that word,) it were a meer concreted Juyce. For it is a Body very curiously _organiz’d_, consisting of an infinite number of extreme small _Bladders_; as in _Tab. 1._ is apparent. ♦ _Tab. 1. f. 9._ ♦ The _Surface_ hereof is somewhat dense, but inwardly, ’tis of a laxer Contexture. If you view it in a _Microscope_, or with a very good _Spectacle-Glass_, it hath some similitude to the _Pith_, while _sappy_ in the _Roots_ and _Trunks_ of _Plants_; and that for good reason, as in _Ch. 2._ shall be seen. This is best seen in green _Beans_.

19. §. This _Part_ would seem by its colour to be peculiar to the _Lobes_ of the _Bean_; but as is the _Cuticle_, so is this also, common both to the _Radicle_ and _Plume_; that is, the _Parenchyma_ or Pulp of the _Bean_, as to its essential substance, is the same in all three. The reason why the colour of the _Plume_, and especially of the _Radicle_, which are white, is so different from that of the _Lobes_, which are green, may chiefly depend upon their being more compact and dense, and thence their different Tinctures. And therefore the _Lobes_ themselves, which are green while the _Bean_ is _young_; yet when it is _old_ and _dry_, become whitish too. And in _many_ other _Seeds_, as _Acorns_, _Almonds_, the _Kernels_ of _Apples_, _Plums_, _Nuts_, _&c._ the _Lobes_, even _fresh_ and _young_, are pure white as the _Radicle_ it self.

20. §. But although the _Parenchyma_ be common, as is said, to all the _Organical Parts_; yet in very differing proportions. In the _Plume_, where it is proportionably least, it maketh about three _Fifths_ of the whole _Plume_; in the _Radicle_, it maketh above five Sevenths of the whole _Radicle_; and in each _Lobe_, is so far over-proportionate, as to make at least nine Tenths of the whole _Lobe_.

21. §. By what hath been said, that the _Parenchyma_ or _Pulp_ is not the only constituting _Part_, besides the _Cuticle_, is imply’d: there being another _Body_, of an essentially different substance, embosom’d herein: which may be found not only in the _Radicle_ and _Plume_, but also in the _Lobes_ themselves, and so in the whole _Bean_.

22. §. This _Inner Body_ appears very plain and conspicuous in cutting the _Radicle_ athwart, and so proceeding by degrees towards the _Plume_, through both which it runneth in a large and strait _Trunk_. ♦ _Tab. 1. f. 10, 11, & 12._ ♦ In the _Lobes_, being it is there in so very small proportion, ’tis difficultly seen, especially towards their _Verges_. Yet if with a sharp Knife you smoothly cut the _Lobes_ of the _Bean_ athwart, divers small _Specks_, ♦ _Tab. 1. f. 13._ ♦ of a different colour from that of the _Parenchyma_, standing therein all along in a Line, may be observ’d; which _Specks_ are the Terminations of the _Branches_ of this _Inner Body_.

23. §. For this _Inner body_, as it is existent in every _Organical Part_ of the _Bean_; so is it, with respect to each _Part_, most regularly distributed. In a good part of the _Radicle_ ’tis one entire _Trunk_; towards the _Basis_ thereof, ’tis divided into three main _Branches_; ♦ _Tab. 1. f. 14._ ♦ the middlemost runneth directly into the _Plume_; the other two on either side of it, after a little space, pass into the _Lobes_; where the said _Branches_ dividing themselves into other smaller; and those into more, and smaller again, are terminated towards the Verges of each _Lobe_; in which manner the said _Inner Body_ being distributed it becomes in each _Lobe_ a true and perfect _Root_.

24. §. Of this _Seminal Root_, as now we’ll call it, from the Description here given, it is further observable; That the two main _Branches_ hereof; in which the several _Ramifications_ in each _Lobe_ are all united, are not committed into the _Seminal Trunk_ of the _Plume_, nor yet stand at right angles with _That_ and the _Radicle_, and so with equal respect towards them both: but being produced through part of the _Parenchyma_ of the _Radicle_, are at last united therein to the main _Trunk_, and make acute Angles therewith: as may be seen in the same. _f. 14._ ♦ _Tab. 1. f. 14._ ♦

25. §. This _Seminal Root_ being so tender, cannot be perfectly excarnated, (as may the _Vessels_ in the _Parts_ of an _Animal_) by the most accurate Hand. Yet by dissection begun and continu’d, as is above declared, its whole frame and distribution may be easily observ’d. Again, if you take the _Lobe_ of a _Bean_, and lengthwise pare off its _Parenchyma_ by degrees, and in extreme thin slices, many _Branches_ of the _Seminal Root_, (which by the other way of Dissection were only noted by so many _Specks_) both as they are fewer about the Basis of the _Bean_, and more numerous towards its Verges, in some good distinction and entireness will appear. For this you must have new _Beans_: or else soaked in Water, or buryed for some time.

26. §. As the _Inner Body_ is branched out in the _Lobes_, so is it in the _Plume_: For if you cut the _Plume_ athwart, and from the _Basis_ proceed along the Body thereof, you’ll therein find, first, one large _Trunk_ or _Branch_, and after four or five very small _Specks_ round about it, which are the terminations of so many lesser _Branches_ therewith distributed to the several parts of the _Plume_. ♦ _Tab. 1. f. 11_ c. ♦ The distribution of the _Inner Body_, as it is continuous throughout all the _Organical Parts_ of the _Bean_, is represented, _Tab. 1. f. 14._

27. §. This _Inner Body_ is, by dissection, best observable in the _Bean_ and great _Lupine_. In other larger _Pulse_ it shews likewise some obscure Marks of it self. But in no other _Seeds_, which I have observed, though of the greatest size: as of _Apples_, _Plums_, _Nuts_, &c. is there any clear appearance hereof, upon dissection, saving in the _Radicle_ and _Plume_; the reason of which is partly from its being, in most _Seeds_, so extraordinary little; partly from its Colour, which in most _Seeds_, is the same with that of the _Parenchyma_ it self, and so not distinguishable from it.

28. §. Yet in a _Gourd-Seed_, the whole _Seminal Root_, not only its _Main Branches_, ♦ _Tab. 1. f. 15._ c. ♦ but also the Sub-divisions and _Inosculations_ of the lesser ones, are without any dissection, upon the separation of the _Lobes_, on their contiguous Flats immediately apparent.

And as to the existence of this _Seminal Root_, what Dissection cannot attain, yet an ocular inspection in hundreds of other _Seeds_, even the smallest, will demonstrate; as in this _Chapter_ shall be seen how.

29. §. In the mean time, let us only take notice; That when we say, every _Plant_ hath its _Root_, we reckon short. For every _Plant_ hath really two, though not contemporary, yet successive _Roots_; its _Original_ or _Seminal-Root_ within the _Lobes_ or _Main Body_ of its _Seed_; and its _Plant-Root_, which the _Radicle_ becometh in its growth: the _Parenchyma_ of the _Seed_, being in some resemblance, that to the _Seminal Root_ at first, which the Mould is to the _Plant-Root_ afterwards; and the _Seminal Root_ being that to the _Plant-Root_, which the _Plant-Root_ is to the _Trunk_. For our better understanding whereof, having taken a view of the several _Parts_ of a _Bean_, as far as Dissection conducts; we will next briefly enquire into the Use of the said _Parts_, and in what manner they are the Fountain of _Vegetation_, and concurrent to the being of the future _Plant_.

♦ An Account of the _Vegetation_ of the _Seed_. ♦ 30. §. THE GENERAL Cause of the growth of a _Bean_, or other _Seed_, is _Fermentation_. That is, the _Bean_ lying in the Mould, and a moderate access of some moisture, partly dissimilar, and partly congenerous, being made, a gentle _Fermentation_ thence ariseth. By which, the _Bean_ swelling, and the _Sap_ still encreasing, and the _Bean_ continuing still to swell, the work thus proceeds: as is the usual way of explicating. But that there is simply a _Fermentation_, and so a sufficient supply of _Sap_ is not enough: but that this _Fermentation_, and the _Sap_ wherein ’tis made, should be under a various Government, by divers _Parts_ thereto subservient, is also requisite; and as the various preparation of the _Aliment_ in an _Animal_, equally necessary: the particular process of the Work according whereto, we find none undertaking to declare.

31. §. Let us look upon a _Bean_ then, as a piece of Work so fram’d and set together, as to declare a Design for the production of a _Plant_; which, upon its lying in some convenient Soil, is thus effected. First of all, the _Bean_ being enfoulded round in its _Coats_, the _Sap_ wherewith it is fed, must of necessity pass through these: By which means, it is not only in a proportionate quantity, and by degrees; but also in a purer body; and possibly not without some _Vegetable Tincture_, transmitted to the _Bean_. Whereas, were the _Bean_ naked, the _Sap_ must needs be, as over-copious, so but crude and immature, as not being _filtred_ through so fine a _Cotton_ as the _Coats_ be. And as they have the use of a _Filtre_ to the transient _Sap_; so of a _Vessel_ to that which is still deposited within them; being alike accommodated to the securer _Fermentation_ hereof, as Bottles or Barrels are to Beer, or any other _Fermentative Liquor_.

32. §. And as the _Fermentation_ is promoted by some _Aperture_ in the Vessel; so have we the _Foramen_ in the upper _Coat_ also contrived. That if there should be need of some more _Aiery_ Particles to excite the _Fermentation_; through _this_, they may obtain their Entry. Or, on the contrary, should there be any such _Particles_ or _Steams_, as might damp the genuine proceeding thereof, through this again, they may have easie issue. Or if, by being over copious, they should become too high a _Ferment_; and so precipitate those soft and slow degrees, as are necessary to a due _Vegetation_. The said _Aperture_ being that, as a common Pasport, here to the _Sap_, which what we call the _Bung-hole_ of the Barrel, is to the new tunn’d Liquor.

33. §. And the _Radicle_ being designed to shoot forth first, as presently shall be shew’d how; therefore is it distinctly surrounded with the Inner and more succulent _Coat_. That being thereby suppled on every side, its eruption may be the better promoted.

34. §. The _Sap_ being passed through the _Coats_, it next enters the Body of the _Bean_; yet not indiscriminately neither; but, being filtred through the _Outer Coat_, and fermented in the Body of the _Inner_, is by mediation of the _Cuticle_, again more finely filtr’d, and so entereth the _Parenchyma_ it self under a fourth Government.

35. §. Through which _Part_ the _Sap_ passing towards the _Seminal Root_, as through that which is of a more spatious content; besides the benefit it hath of a farther _percolation_, it will also find room enough for a more free and active fermenting and _maturation_ herein. And being moreover, part of the true Body of the _Bean_, and so with its proper _Seminalities_ or _Tinctures_ copiously repleat; the _Sap_ will not only find _room_, but also _matter_ enough, by whose Energy its _Fermentation_ will still be more advanced.

36. §. And the _Sap_ being duly prepared here, it next passeth into all the _Branches_ of the _Seminal Root_, and so under a fifth Government. Wherein how delicate ’tis now become, we may conceive by the proportion betwixt the _Parenchyma_ and this _Seminal Root_; so much only of the best digested _Sap_ being discharged from the whole Stock in that, as this will receive. And this, moreover, as the _Parenchyma_, with its proper _Seminalities_ being endowed; the _Sap_ for the supply of the _Radicle_, and of the young _Root_ from thence, is duly prepared therein, and with its highest _Tincture_ and _Impregnation_ at last enriched.

37. §. The _Sap_ being thus prepared in the _Lobes_ of the _Bean_, ’tis thence discharg’d; and either into the _Plume_, or the _Radicle_, must forthwith issue. And since the _Plume_ is a dependent on the _Radicle_; the _Sap_ therefore ought first to be dispenced to this: which accordingly, is ever found to shoot forth before the _Plume_: and sometimes an inch or two in length. Now because the primitive course of the _Sap_ into the _Radicle_, is thus requisite; therefore, by the frame of the _Parts_ of the _Bean_ is it also made necessary. The two main _Branches_ of the _Seminal Root_, being produced, as is before observed, not into the _Plume_, but the _Radicle_. Now the _Sap_ being brought as far as the _Seminal Root_, in either _Lobe_; and according to the conduct thereof continuing still to move: it must needs immediately issue into the same _Part_, ♦ _Tab. 1. f. 14._ ♦ whereinto the main _Branches_ themselves do; that is, into the _Radicle_. By which _Sap_, thus bringing the several _Tinctures_ of the _Parts_ aforesaid with it, being now fed; it is no longer a meer _Radicle_, but is made also _Seminal_, and so becomes a perfect _Root_.

38. §. The _Plume_, all this while, lyes close and still. For the sake of which, chiefly it is, that the _Bean_ and other _Seeds_ are divided into _Lobes_, _viz._ That it might be warmly and safely lodged up between them, and so secur’d from the Injuries so tender a _Part_ would sustain from the Mould; whereto, had the _Main Body_ been entire, it must, upon the cleaving of the _Coats_, have lay’n contiguous.

39. §. But the _Radicle_ being thus impregnated and shot into a _Root_; ’tis now time for the _Plume_ to rouze out of its Cloysters, and germinate too: In order whereto, ’tis now fed from the _Root_, with laudable and sufficient _Aliment_. For as the Supplies and Motion of _Sap_ were first made from the _Lobes_, towards the _Root_: so the _Root_ being well shot into the Mould, and now receiving a new and more copious _Sap_ from thence; the motion hereof must needs be stronger, and by degrees proceed in a contrary course, _sc._ from the _Root_ toward the _Plume_: and, by the continuation of the _Seminal Root_, is directly conducted thereinto; by which being fed, it gradually enlarges and displays it self.

40. §. The course of the _Sap_ thus turned, it issues, I say, in a direct Line from the _Root_ into the _Plume_: but collaterally, into the _Lobes_ also; _sc._ by those two aforesaid _Branches_ which are obliquely transmitted from the _Radicle_ into either _Lobe_. By which _Branches_ the said _Sap_ being disbursed back into all the _Seminal Root_, and from thence, likewise into the _Parenchyma_ of the _Lobes_, they are both thus fed, and for some time augmenting themselves, really grow: as in _Lupines_ is evident.

41. §. Yet is not this common to all _Seeds_. Some rot underground; as _Corn_; being of a laxer and less Oleous Substance, differing herein from most other _Seeds_; and being not divided into _Lobes_, but one entire thick Body. And some, although they continue firm, and are divided into _Lobes_, yet rise not; as the great _Garden Bean_. In which, therefore, it is observable, That the two Main _Branches_ of the _Lobes_, in comparison with that which runs into the _Plume_, are but mean; ♦ _Tab. 1. f. 14._ ♦ and so insufficient to the feeding and vegetation of the _Lobes_; the _Plume_, on the contrary, growing so lusty, as to mount up without them.

42. §. Excepting a few of these Two Kinds, all other _Seeds_ whatsoever, (which I have observed) besides that they continue firm; upon the _Vegetation_ of the _Plume_, do mount also upwards, and advance above the Ground together with it; as all _Seeds_ which spring up with one or more _Dissimilar Leaves_: These _Dissimilar Leaves_, for the most part _Two_, which first spring up, and are of a different shape from those that follow, being the very _Lobes_ of the _Seed_, divided, expanded, and thus advanced.

43. §. The Impediments of our apprehension hereof are the Colour, Size and Shape of the _Dissimilar Leaves_. Notwithstanding, that they are nothing else but the _Main Body_ of the _Seed_, how I came first to conceive, and afterwards to know it, was thus. First, I observed in general, that the _Dissimilar Leaves_, were never jagg’d, but even edg’d: And seeing the even verges of the _Lobes_ of the _Seed_ hereto respondent, I was apt to think, that those which were so like, might prove the same. Next descending to particular _Seeds_, I observed, first, of the _Lupine_; that, as to its Colour, advancing above the Ground, (as it useth to do) it was always changed into a perfect Green. And why might not the same by parity of Reason be inferred of other _Seeds_? That, as to its size, it grew but little bigger than when first set. Whence, as I discern’d (the Augmentation being but little) we here had only the two _Lobes_: ♦ _Tab. 2. f. 1._ ♦ So, (as some augmentation there was) I inferr’d the like might be, and that, in farther degrees, in other _Seeds_.

44. §. Next of the _Cucumber-Seed_, That, as to its Colour, often appearing above ground, in its primitive white, from white it turns to yellow, and from yellow to green; the proper colour of a _Leaf_. That, as to its size, though at its first arise, the _Lobes_ were little bigger than upon setting; yet afterwards, as they chang’d their Colour, ♦ _Tab. 2. f. 2._ ♦ so their dimensions also, growing to a three-four-five-fold amplitude above their primitive size. But whereas the _Lobes_ of the _Seed_, are in proportion, narrow, short and thick: how then come the _Dissimilar Leaves_, to be so exceeding broad, or long, and thin? The Question answers it self: For the _Dissimilar Leaves_, for that very reason are so thin, because so very broad or long; as we see many things, how much they are extended in length or breadth, so much they lose in depth, or grow more thin; which is that which here befalls the now effoliated _Lobes_. For being once dis-imprisoned from their _Coats_, and the course of the _Sap_ into them, now more and more encreased; they must needs very considerably amplifie themselves: and from the manner wherein the _Seminal Root_ is branched in them, that amplification cannot be in thickness, but in length or breadth. In both which, in some _Dissimilar Leaves_, ’tis very remarkable; ♦ _Tab. 2. f. 3._ ♦ especially in length, as in those of _Lettice_, _Thorn-Apple_, and others; whose _Seeds_, although very small, yet the _Lobes_ of those _Seeds_ growing up into _Dissimilar Leaves_, are extended an Inch, and sometimes more, in length. Though he that shall attempt to get a clear sight of the _Lobes_ of _Thorn-Apple_, and some others, by _Dissection_, will find it no easie Task; yet is that which may be obtained; and in the Last _Book_ shall be shew’d. From all which, and the observation of other _Seeds_, I at last found, that the _Dissimilar Leaves_ of a young _Plant_, are nothing else but the _Lobes_ or _Main Body_ of its _Seed_. So that, as the _Lobes_ did at first feed and impregnate the _Radicle_ into a _perfect Root_; so the _Root_, being perfected, doth again feed, and by degrees amplifie each _Lobe_ into a perfect _Leaf_.

45. §. The Original of the _Dissimilar Leaves_ thus known, we understand, why some _Plants_ have none; because the _Seed_ either riseth not, as _Garden-Beans_, _Corn_, &c. Or upon rising, the _Lobes_ are little alter’d, as _Lupines_, _Pease_, &c. Why, though the proper _Leaves_ are often indented round; the _Dissimilar_ like the _Lobes_ are even-edg’d. Why, though the proper _Leaves_ are often hairy, yet these are ever smooth. Why some have more _Dissimilar Leaves_ than two, as _Cresses_, which have six, as the Ingenious Mr. _Sharrock_ also observes. ♦ Hist. of the _Prop._ of _Vege._ ♦ The reason whereof is, because the _Main Body_ is not divided into Two, but Six, distinct _Lobes_, as I have often counted. Why _Radishes_ seem at first to have four, which yet after appear plainly two: because the _Lobes_ of the _Seed_, have both a little Indenture, and are both plaited, one over the other. To which, other Instances might be added.

46. The use of the _Dissimilar Leaves_ is, first, for the protection of the _Plume_; which being but young, and so but soft and tender, is provided with these, as a double Guard, one on either side of it. For this reason it is, that the _Plume_, in _Corn_, is trussed up within a membranous _Sheath_: and that of a _Bean_, cooped up betwixt a pair of _Surfoyls_: ♦ _Tab. 3._ ♦ But where the _Lobes_ rise, there the _Plume_ hath neither of them, being both needless.

47. §. Again, since the _Plume_, being yet tender, may be injur’d not only by the _Aer_, but also for want of _Sap_, the supplies from the _Root_ being yet but slow and sparing; that the said _Plume_ therefore, by the _Dissimilar Leaves_, may have the advantage likewise of some refreshment from Dew or Rain. For these having their _Basis_ a little beneath that of the _Plume_, and expanding themselves on all sides of it, they often stand after Rain, like a Vessel of Water, continually soaking and suppling it, lest its new access into the _Ayr_, should shrivel it.

48. §. Moreover, that since the _Dissimilar Leaves_ by their _Basis_ intercept the _Root_ and _Plume_, the greater and grosser part of the _Sap_, may be, by the way, deposited into those; and so the purest proceed into the yet but young and delicate _Plume_, as its fittest _Aliment_.

49. §. Lastly, we have here a demonstration of the being of the _Seminal Root_: which, since through the colour or smalness of the _Seed_, it could not by Dissection be observ’d, except in some few; Nature hath here provided us a way of viewing it in the now effoliated _Lobes_, not of one or two _Seeds_, but of hundreds; the _Seminal Root_ visibly branching it self towards the Cone or Verges of the said _Lobes_, or now _Dissimilar Leaves_.

CHAP. II.

_Of the ROOT._

HAVING Examin’d and pursu’d the Degrees of _Vegetation_ in the _Seed_, we find its two _Lobes_ have here their utmost period: and, that having conveyed their _Seminalities_ into the _Radicle_ and _Plume_; these therefore, as the _Root_ and _Trunk_ of the _Plant_, still survive. Of these, in their order, we next proceed to speak; and first, of the _Root_: whereof, as well as of the _Seed_, we must by Dissection inform our selves.

2. §. In Dissection of a _Root_ then, we shall find it with the _Radicle_, as the _Parts_ of an Old Man with those of a _Fœtus_, substantially, one. The first _Part_ occurring is its _Skin_, the Original whereof is from the _Seed_: For that extreme thin _Cuticle_ which is spread over the _Lobes_ of the _Seed_, and from thence over the _Radicle_, upon the shooting of the _Radicle_ into a _Root_, is co-extended, and becomes its _Skin_.

3. §. The next _Part_ is the _Cortical Body_. Which, when it is thin, is commonly called the _Barque_. The Original hereof, likewise is from the _Seed_; or the _Parenchyma_, which is there common both to the _Lobes_ and _Radicle_, being by _Vegetation_ augmented and prolonged into the _Root_, the same becomes the _Parenchyma_ of the _Barque_. ♦ _Tab. 2. f. 4._ ♦

4. §. The Contexture of this _Parenchyma_ may be well illustrated by that of a _Sponge_, being a Body Porous, Dilative and Pliable. Its _Pores_, as they are innumerable, so, extream small. These _Pores_ are not only susceptive of so much Moisture as to fill, but also to enlarge themselves, and so to dilate the _Cortical Body_ wherein they are: which by the shriv’ling in thereof, upon its being expos’d to the Air, is also seen. In which dilatation, many of its Parts becoming more lax and distant, and none of them suffering a solution of their continuity; ’tis a Body also sufficiently pliable; that is to say, a _most exquisitely fine-wrought Sponge_.

5. §. The Extention of these _Pores_ is much alike by the length and breadth of the _Root_; which from the shrinking up of the _Cortical Body_, in a piece of a cut _Root_, by the same dimensions, is argu’d.

6. §. The proportions of this _Cortical Body_ are various: If thin, ’tis, as is said, called a _Barque_; and thought to serve to no other end, than what is vulgarly ascrib’d to a _Barque_; which is a narrow conceit. If a Bulky Body, in comparison with That within it, as in the young _Roots_ of _Cichory_, _Asparagus_, &c. ’tis here, because the fairest, therefore taken for the prime _Part_; which, though, as to Medicinal use, it is; yet, as to the private use of the _Plant_, not so. The Colour hereof, though it be originally white, yet in the continued growth of the _Root_, divers _Tinctures_, as yellow in _Dock_, _red_ in _Bistort_, are thereinto introduced.

7. §. Next within this Part stands the _Lignous Body_: This _Lignous Body_, lyeth with all its parts, so far as they are visible, in a Circle or _Ring_. ♦ _Tab. 2. f. 4._ b. ♦ Yet are there divers extreme small _Fibres_ thereto parallel, usually mixed with the _Cortical Body_; and by the somewhat different colour of the said _Cortical Body_ where they stand, may be noted. These _Fibres_ the _Cortical Body_, and _Skin_, altogether, properly make the _Barque_. The Original of this _Lignous Body_, as of the two former, is from the _Seed_; or, the _Seminal Roots_ of both the _Lobes_, being united in the _Radicle_, and with its _Parenchyma_ co-extended, is here in the _Root_ of the _Plant_, the _Lignous Body_.

8. §. The Contexture hereof, in many of its parts, is much more close than that of the _Cortical_; and their _Pores_ very different. For whereas those of the _Cortical_ are infinitely numerous, these of the _Lignous_ are in comparison nothing so. But these, although fewer, yet are they, many of them, more open, fair and visible: as in a very thin Slice cut athwart the young _Root_ of a _Tree_, and held up against the light, is apparent. Yet not in all equally; in _Coran_-Tree, _Goosberry_-Tree, _&c._ less, in _Oak_, _Plums_, and especially _Damascens_, more; ♦ _Tab. 2. f. 5._ ♦ in _Elder_, _Vines_, _&c._ most conspicuous. And as they are different in number and size, so also (whereon the numerousness of the _Pores_ of the _Cortical Body_ principally depends) in their shape. For whereas those of the _Cortical Body_ are extended much alike both by the length and breadth of the _Root_; these of the _Lignous_, are only by the length; which especially in _Vines_, and some other _Roots_ is evident. Of these _Pores_, ’tis also observable, that although in all places of the _Root_ they are visible, yet most fair and open about the _filamentous Extremities_ of some _Roots_, ♦ _Tab. 2. f. 7._ a. b. ♦ where about, the _Roots_ have no _Pith_; as in _Fenil_. And in many _Roots_, higher.

9. §. The proportion betwixt this _Lignous Body_ and the _Cortical_, is various, as was said; yet in this, constant, _sc._ that in the _filamentous_ and smaller Parts of the _Root_, the _Lignous Body_ is very much the less; running like a slender _Wyer_ or _Nerve_ through the other surrounding it. Whereas in the upper part, it is often times of far greater quantity than the _Cortical_, although it be encompass’d by it. They stand both together pyramidally, which is most common to _Infant Roots_, but also to a great many others.

10. §. The next _Part_ observable in the _Root_, is the _Insertment_. The existence hereof, so far as we can yet observe, is sometimes in the _Radicle_ of the _Seed_ it self; I cannot say always. As to its substantial nature, we are more certain; that it is the same with that of the _Parenchyma_ of the _Radicle_; being always at least augmented, and so, in part, originated from the _Cortical Body_, and so, at second hand, from the said _Parenchyma_. For in dissecting a _Root_, I find, that the _Cortical Body_ doth not only environ the _Lignous_, but is also wedg’d, and in many Pieces _inserted_ into it; and that the said inserted Pieces make not a meer Indenture, but transmit and shoot themselves quite through as far as the _Pith_: ♦ _Tab. 2. f. 5._ ♦ which in a thin Slice cut athwart the _Root_, as so many lines drawn from the Circumference towards the Center, shew themselves.

11. §. The _Pores_ of the _Insertment_ are sometimes, at least, extended somewhat more by the breadth of the _Root_, as about the top of the _Root_ of _Borage_ may be seen; and are thus different from those of the _Cortical Body_, which are extended by the length and breadth much alike; and from those of the _Lignous_, being only by its length.

12. §. The number and size of these Insertions are various. In _Hawthorn_, and some others, and especially _Willows_, they are most extream small; in _Cherries_ and _Plums_ they are Biger; ♦ _Tab. 2. f. 5. & 6._ ♦ and in the _Vine_ and some other _Trees_, very fairly apparent. In the _Roots_ of most _Herbs_ they are generally more easily discoverable; which may lead to the observation of them in all.

13. §. These _Insertions_, although they are continuous through both the length and breadth of the _Root_; yet not so in all Parts, but by the several shootings of the _Lignous Body_ they are frequently intercepted. For of the _Lignous Body_ it is (here best) observable; That its several _Shootings_, betwixt which the _Cortical_ is inserted, are not, throughout the _Root_, wholly distinct, strait and parallel; but that all along being enarch’d, the _Lignous Body_, both in length and breadth, is thus disposed into _Braces_ or _Osculations_. Betwixt these several _Shootings_ of the _Lignous Body_ thus osculated, the _Cortical_ shooting, ♦ _Tab. 2. f. 8._ ♦ and being also osculated answerably _Brace_ for _Brace_, that which I call the _Insertment_ is framed thereof.

14. §. These _Osculations_ are so made, that the _Pores_ or _Fibres_ of the _Lignous Body_, I think, notwithstanding, seldom or never run one into another; being, though contiguous, yet still distinct. In the same manner as some of the _Nerves_, though they meet, and for some space are associated together, yet ’tis most probable, that none of their _Fibres_ are truly inosculated, saving perhaps, in the _Plexures_.

15. §. These _Osculations_ of the _Lignous Body_, and so the interception of the _Insertions_ of the _Cortical_, are not to be observ’d by the traverse cut of the _Root_, but by taking off the _Barque_. In the _Roots_ of _Trees_, they are generally obscure; but in _Herbs_ often more distinctly apparent; and especially in a _Turnep_: the appearance whereof, the _Barque_ being stripp’d off, is as a piece of close-wrought Net-work, fill’d up with the _Insertions_ from thence.

16. §. The next and last distinct _Part_ of the _Root_ is the _Pith_. The substantial nature thereof, is, as was said of the _Insertment_, the same likewise with that of the _Parenchyma_ of the _Seed_. And according to the best observation I have yet made, ’tis sometimes existent in its _Radicle_; in which, the two main _Branches_ of the _Lobes_ both meeting, and being osculated together, are thus dispos’d into one round and tubular _Trunk_, and so environing part of the _Parenchyma_, make thereof a _Pith_; as in either the _Radicle_, or the young _Root_ of the great _Bean_ or _Lupine_, may, I think, be well seen.

17. §. But many times the Original hereof is immediately from the _Barque_. For in dissection of divers _Roots_, both of _Trees_ and _Herbs_, as of _Barberry_ or _Mallows_, it is observable, That the _Cortical Body_ and _Pith_, are both of them participant of the same Colour; in the _Barberry_, both of them tinged yellow, and in _Mallows_, green. In cutting the smaller Parts of the _Roots_ of many _Plants_, as of _Borage_, _Mallows_, _Parsley_, _Columbine_, _&c._ ’tis also evident, That the _Lignous Body_ is not there, in the least Concave, but standeth Solid, or without any _Pith_, ♦ _Tab. 2. f. 9._ a. ♦ in the Center; and that the _Insertions_ being gradually multiplied afterwards, the _Pith_, at length, towards the thicker parts of the _Root_, shews and enlarges it self. Whence it appears, that in all such _Roots_, the _Pith_ is not only of the same substantial nature, and by the _Insertions_ doth communicate with the _Barque_; and that it is also augmented by it; which is true of the _Pith_ of all _Roots_; but is moreover, by mediation of the said _Insertions_, wholly originated from it; that is to say, from the _Parenchymous_ Part thereof. The various appearances of the _Insertions_ and _Pith_ from the filamentous _Parts_ to the top of the _Root_, see in _Tab. 2_. ♦ _Tab. 2. f. 9._ ♦ The _Pores_ of the _Lignous Body_, as it stands entire in the said filamentous _Parts_, are best seen when they have lain by a night to dry, after cutting.

18. §. A farther evidence hereof are the Proportions betwixt the _Cortical Body_ and _Pith_. For as about the inferiour Parts of the _Root_, where the _Pith_ is small, the _Cortical Body_ is proportionably great; so about the top, where the _Pith_ is enlarged, the _Cortical Body_ (now more properly becoming a _Barque_) groweth proportionably less, _sc._ because the _Insertions_ do still more and more enlarge the _Pith_. Likewise the peculiar frame of some _Roots_, wherein besides the _Pith_, the _Lignous Body_ being divided into two or more _Rings_, there are also one or more thick _Rings_, of a white and soft substance, which stand betwixt them; and are nothing else but the _Insertions_ of the _Cortical Body_ collected into the said _Rings_; but, towards the top of the _Root_, being inserted again, thus make a large and ample _Pith_; ♦ _Tab. 2. f. 8._ ♦ as in older _Fennel_-Roots, those of _Beet_, _Turnep_, and some other _Herbs_, is seen.

19. §. The _Pores_ of the _Pith_, as those of the _Cortical Body_, are extended both by the breadth and length of the _Root_, much alike; yet are they more or less of a greater size than those of the _Cortical Body_.

20. §. The Proportions of the _Pith_, are various; in _Trees_, but small; in _Herbs_, generally, very fair; in some making by far the greatest part of the _Root_; as in a _Turnep_: By reason of the wide circumference whereof, and so the finer Concoction and Assimilation of its Sap; that _Part_ which in most old _Trunks_ is a dry and harsh _Pith_, here proves a tender, pleasant meat.

21. §. In the _Roots_ of very many _Plants_, as _Turneps_, _Carrots_, _&c._ the _Lignous Body_, besides its main utmost _Ring_, hath divers of its _osculated Fibres_ dispersed throughout the Body of the _Pith_; sometimes all alike, and sometimes more especially in, or near, its Center; which _Fibres_, as they run towards the top of the _Root_, still declining the Center, at last collaterally strike into its Circumference; either all of them, or some few, keeping the Center still. Of these principally, the Succulent part of the _Lignous Body_ of the _Trunk_ is often originated.

22. §. Some of these _Pith-Fibres_, although they are so exceeding slender, yet in some _Roots_, as in that of _Flower de liz_, they are visibly concave, each of them, in their several Cavities also embosoming a very small _Pith_; the sight whereof, the _Root_ being cut traverse, and laid in a Window for a day or two to dry, may without _Glasses_ be obtain’d. And this is the general account of the _Root_; the declaration of the manner of its growth, with the use and service of its several _Parts_, we shall next endeavour.