Chapter V: Introduction (5)

The oval leaf is long, tapering at both ends; usually notched on the edge, slightly rough above, and downy beneath; it is coarse in texture, and in the quality of its green color.

The flower-heads are small, and bright yellow; they grow on curving branchlets in a many-sided plume, on the top of the stalk.

*Noble Goldenrod.* _Solidago speciosa._

Found during September growing in dry soil, near the woods often.

The smooth, round, single stalk varies from 3 to 6 feet in height. Its color is a fine dark red.

The leaf is long and narrow, and tapers at both ends; its margin is entire, the edge being a little rough, and the midrib is strong and curving, and a trifle taut, which fulls the blade; the texture is fine and thick, and the surface is smooth. The color is yellow-green. The leaves are set alternately upon the stalk.

The stamens of the disc flowers are long; the rays 5 or 6 in number; full-toned yellow in color. The heads are rather large, and are arranged in a large pyramid-shaped terminal spike.

A strikingly handsome plant, with its strong red stems, which color also tempers the green of its foliage into an excellent harmony with the numerous flowers. Its manner of growth in circular settlements of many plants together is a very individual trait.

*Small Spike Goldenrod.* _Solidago nemoralis._

Found in September along dry roadsides and in sandy fields.

The stalk, which seldom grows higher than 2 feet, is single, and very leafy, of a strong fibre, and slightly rough, or not quite smooth to the touch. It is grayish green in color.

Disc flowers are few, the rays are seldom more than 8 in number, arranged in little one-sided spires to form a close, leafy, spike-like plume. The color is very clear in hue.

Common to all localities favorable to the Goldenrods, and, as observed, reaching its fullness of bloom in September rather than in August.

*Broad-leaved Goldenrod.* _Solidago latifolia._

Found in September and October on the edges of woods, and moist copses.

The stalk grows from 1 to 3 feet high; it is often zigzag in gesture or angular, is leafy, smooth to the touch, and woody-fibred. Its color is green.

The broadly-oval leaf tapers at both ends, the margin is cut in sharp slender teeth, ribs are marked, and the surface is rough to the touch. Color, yellowish green.

The disc flowers are small, and the ray flowers are few, from 4 to 6 in number; in color they are clear yellow. The cups are pale green, and the heads are gathered, in small clusters, on the end of the stalk, and in the angles of the upper leaves.

This is a pleasing variation from the common types of the Goldenrods; its prolonged leafy stem, slender in growth, and strung with small clusters of yellow flowers, is less showy, but more refined in general bearing than many others.

*Wreath Goldenrod.* _Solidago cæsia._

Found, during September and October, growing in rich woods or on the borders of thickets.

The very slender, curving, stalk varies from 10 to 18 inches, or more, in height; it often branches near the end, and is leafy all the way; smooth. Clear green in color.

The leaf is long-oval in shape, tapering at both ends, with a sharp tip; it has a strong midrib, the margin is notched with sharp teeth, the texture is thin, and surface smooth. Green in color. The arrangement is alternate, the leaves being set on the stalk near together.

The ray flowers, 4 or 5 in number, are small; the little heads are clustered upon the stalk in the angles of the leaves for a considerable part of its length. The color is a pleasing yellow.

These slender, swaying, golden wreaths of bloom love best a shady wood road, though they bear transplanting into gardens fairly well.

*Upland White Aster.* _Aster ptarmicoides._

Found among rocks, in dry soil, in August.

The stalk, erect in bearing, from 1 to 2 feet in height, is single, and very slender; smooth at the foot, though rough above. Of a gray-green color.

The leaf is like a grass blade, long, and narrow, with an entire margin, and noticeable midrib; the upper surface is rough, the edge being harsh to the touch, the under surface is shining. Color, gray-green. Arranged alternately, and clasping the stalk with an upward curve.

The disc flowers are small; of a pale yellow-green. The ray flowers, 15 or 20 in number, are short, pointed; pure white. The heads are arranged in a flat-topped loose cluster.

When the disc flowers mature they turn to a light brown color; at one period of development the pale pistils are prominent. There is an individual excellence about this Aster, existing especially in the curve of its leaf.

*White Wood Aster.* _Aster corymbosus._

Found in moist woods during July and August.

The stalk, 12 or 15 inches high, branches near the top, and is sometimes zigzag in growth; slender, and smooth. In color a strong rich purple, or green, streaked with red or purple.

The lower leaves are heart-shaped, the upper long-oval, with tapering points; the margin notched, and the texture thin. Color green, lighter underneath. Set on short stems, and arranged alternately.

The disc flowers are few, and yellow; the 4 to 8 ray flowers are about a half inch long, narrow, delicate in texture, arranged in a scattering row, and pure white in color. The cups are small; the heads grouped in loose, leafy terminal clusters.

Perhaps the most daintily finished of the white Asters, it is also the most shy, loving shady nooks and lonely places amongst trees.

*New England Aster.* _Aster Novæ-Angliæ._

Found in September in moist fields and waysides.

The strong stalk varies much in height (from 3 to 7 or 8 feet); it branches somewhat at the summit and bears many leaves, and is hairy to the touch. In color green, or purplish.

The leaf is lance-shaped, with a pointed tip, and a heart-shaped base, an entire margin, and hairy surface. The color is a fine, cool green. The leaves clasp the stalk closely, and are arranged alternately, and near together.

The disc flowers are yellow, inclining to purplish, gathered in a large, noticeable tuft; the ray flowers are large and long (15 to 20 in number), of fine texture, and of a rich deep violet or almost royal purple color. The cup is large, sticky, and its many tips turn abruptly outward; green in color. The heads are set on short, sometimes leafy, stems in small terminal groups.

A singularly handsome Aster, with a fine, free gesture, and admirable color harmony.

*Starry White Aster.* _Aster multiflorus._

Found in August and September, in dry open fields, and waste places.

The stalk (from 1 to 2 feet in height) is leafy and shrubby in growth, and the branches are long and curving; it is slender, and rough to the touch. Green.

The lowest leaves are broad lance-shaped, pointed at each end, the margin sometimes notched; the upper leaves are long, and narrow, with an entire margin, and diminishing in size till they become line-like near the top of the stalk. The midrib shows plainly, the texture is firm. The color is gray-green, rather dark. The leaves are set immediately upon the stalk, closely and irregularly, and generally alternate.

The disc flowers are few; yellow, changing to brown. The ray flowers are fine and small, 10 to 15 in number; white. The cups very small; silvery green. The heads are arranged in profusion along the leafy branches.

The feathery prettiness of these curving spires of green and white loses nothing of its attraction because of its plentiful growth in barren places amidst the one-toned monotony of the Goldenrods. The quality of its green deserves especial regard.

*Early Purple Aster.* _Aster puniceus._

Found in August in damp or swampy places.

The stalk varies from 3 to 5 feet in height, and is widely branching; the fibre is coarse, and it is roughened by hairs. The color is green, very often becoming purple near the foot.

The leaf is a long oval (near the foot sometimes fully 3 inches long), with strong and hairy midrib, and a slightly notched margin; the edge and upper surface are disagreeably rough to the touch. In color light green, the midrib sometimes purple. The arrangement is alternate.

The disc flowers are yellow, turning to tawny; the ray flowers (20 to 30 in number) are long, and of a delicate light purple. The cups are composed of several rows of long, fine, spreading green parts. The heads are arranged in small groups, set on short stems, which rise from the angles of the leaves.

Though somewhat awkward in manner of growth the blossoms of this early Aster are very pretty and profuse. The rays, as they lie folded in the bud, are silvery pale.

*Pointed-leaved Aster.* _Aster acuminatus._

Found in August in rich woods (Mountains of Vermont).

It grows about 1 foot high, and has a slender, sometimes zigzag stalk, which is slightly rough, and bears the leaves and flowers clustered at the top.

The leaf, from 2 to 4 inches long, tapers at tip and base, and is coarsely toothed on the edge; the surface is a little hairy, and the texture is thin; the leaves, set directly on the stalk, are alternate at short distances, giving the effect of a whorl of leaves. Color green.

The flower-head has from 12 to 18 long, narrow, rays, white or faintly tinted with violet, while the disc flowers are dull yellow. The flower-heads are apt to be few, on slender stems in a branching cluster, on the top of the stalk.

This Aster lacks richness of color, but has a certain charm of slender growth peculiar to wood Asters; its few pale flowers set above the full cluster of the broad pale leaves have an air of selection, unknown to its more luxuriant relatives.

*Broad-leaved Aster.* _Aster macrophyllus._

Found in the woods in September, generally in upland regions.

The single, very stout growing, stalk is between 1 and 2 feet in height; it is slightly rough to the touch. In color light green.

The lowest leaves (generally 3 in number) are very conspicuous, being especially large, and nearly round, with a heart-shaped base, and a suddenly sharp tip; with many ribs, and the margins prettily cut in rounding scallops, with tiny sharp teeth; these leaves are set on long trough-like stems that clasp the stalk. The upper leaves become, very abruptly, quite small; with fine-pointed tips, entire, slightly and irregularly notched margins, and showing only the midrib; they are set on very short stems, or, near the flowers, are placed immediately upon the stalk. All the foliage is exceptionally thin in texture, and rough on both surfaces; the arrangement is alternate. The color is a fine gray-toned green.

The disc flower is small; yellow turning to brown; the rays, 12 to 16 in number, are long and slender, of a very delicate texture, and pale lilac (sometimes nearly white it is asserted) in color. The cup is cylindrical, and slightly sticky, as are the foot-stems. The heads are arranged in a loose, terminal cluster.

An odor of camphor mingles with the sweet scent of these flowers, and is distinctly perceptible at a distance. The decorative quality of the leafage is of unique excellence.

*Pine Aster.* _Aster linariifolius._

Found chiefly on the edges of pine woods in September.

The stalk reaches from 1 to 2 feet in height; it is single, leafy, slender, and rough to the touch. In color, pale green, tinged with red.

The leaf is long, and narrow, with an entire margin; the surface covered with a minute down that is harsh to the touch; the fibre is stiff. The color is green. The leaves are set upon the stalk, irregularly, alternating, and numerous.

The disc flowers are yellow; the ray flowers, 12 to 20 in number, are long and slender, and pale bluish-lavender in color. The heads are few, and grow, on slender stems, either singly, or in a terminal flat-topped cluster.

The stiff edges of the leaves and their rigid bearing are not unlike the needles which carpet the favorite haunts this Aster loves. Though not pleasant to pluck, on account of its harsh texture, this is a very attractive plant to look upon.

*Variable-leaved Aster.* _Aster undulatus._

Found in dry woods, and thickets, during September.

The slender, branching stalk (2 to 3 feet high) is soft, with down, to the touch. Light green in color. Leaning and swaying in gesture.

The leaves are very variable in shape, the lowest being decidedly heart-shaped, and set on long margined stems (these margins somewhat notched) that clasp the stalk with shallow wings; above, the leaves are somewhat heart-shaped, and are set on short stems, that clasp the stalk with broad wings; while the upper leaves are set immediately upon the stalk, and clasp it by their prolonged bases. All the leaves have tapering tips, entire, or very slightly, notched margins, with a rough upper surface, while underneath it they are soft-hairy to the touch; they are placed alternately. The color is cool green.

The disc flowers are pale yellow at first, but become reddish-brown in maturity. The ray flowers, 10 to 20 in number, are pale lavender or lilac. The heads are arranged in loose clusters.

The color of this leafage, and its shapes, are very pleasing. Gray’s _Manual_ states the color of its rays as “bright blue”!

*Later Purple Aster.* _Aster patens._

Found during September and October along the borders of dry woods and thickets.

The stalk (from 1 to 2 and ½ feet high) is branching, and leafy, with a fine texture, and smooth surface; slender and swaying in growth. Its color is sometimes green, often a dull reddish-purple.

The leaf is long, and narrow, tapering at the tip, and partly clasping the stalk at the base; the margin is slightly rough to the touch, the texture is firm and thick, and the surface is smooth to the touch. Color, a cool dark grayish-green. The arrangement is alternate.

The disc flowers are sometimes yellow, or often reddish-violet; the rays, from 20 to 30, are a deep rich violet. The heads are set in vase-shaped green cups, whose parts are overlapping; they are numerous in large terminal clusters.

As the flowers mature, the rays curl inward around the disc, and dry thus on the plant; its leafage is very fine in quality, and in beautiful harmony with the rich brilliance of the blossoms.

*Branching Aster.* _Aster cordifolius._

Found in the latter part of September in shaded thickets and on dry banks.

The stalk is often about 4 feet high, very widely branching, leafy, and bearing a profusion of flowers; it has a coarse, very rough surface usually. In color reddish.

The leaf has a heart-shaped base, and pointed tip, a slightly notched or entire margin, and a coarse texture, the surface generally being rough above and also on the underside of the midrib; the upper leaves clasp the stalk, while the lower, and larger, leaves are set on short hairy stems. In color, a rather dull green. They are numerous all the way from foot to tip.

The many flower-heads, are small, with 14 to 20 delicate, short, pale-lavender rays; the cups are smooth and shining, and are set on leafy foot-stems, in large loose clusters.

Coming just as its purple and white sisters are departing, and as though desiring to atone for their cessation, this delightful late Aster fills the country roads and lanes with the generous abundance of its misty gray-lavender bloom.

LOBELIA FAMILY.

LOBELIACEÆ.

*Spiked Lobelia.* _Lobelia spicata._

Found in pastures and waysides during July and August.

The single, very erect stalk varies from 1 to 2 feet in height, and is very slender, grooved, and noticeably twisted; its fibre is fine, and near the foot it is hairy to the touch. In color green, with a trace of red at the leaf.

The foot-leaves are large, and a wide oval in shape, and set on margined stems; the upper leaves are a long narrow, oval shape, diminishing in size to a mere line, and are set immediately upon the stalk; the margins are irregularly notched, they are downy to the touch, and light green, tending to yellow. Their arrangement is alternate.

The small flower is 2-lipped, the lower lip being 3-parted with a pair of swellings at the throat of the tube, the upper lip divided by a cleft down the length of the tube; all parts of the corolla are sharp-pointed, and flaring from the 5-parted calyx; the texture is fine and smooth, and the color a pure pale lavender, faintly lined with dark, white near the throat, and pinkish in the tube, the green calyx being also tinted with pink. The flowers, on short foot-stems, are set alternately, and close, in a long, very pretty spike.

There is something individual about the alert carriage of this plant, its whole gesture is erect and animated. It grows numerously in pastures, though in less close fellowship than its little brook sister.

*Brook Lobelia.* _Lobelia Kalmii._

Found on moist ground in limestone soil, blossoming in July and August.

The erect, minutely angular stem, is slender, smooth and polished, fine and at the same time strong in fibre; in color a light grass-green.

The small, narrow and grass-like leaf is about an inch long; towards the root it broadens a little at the tip; color grass-green. The growth is alternate.

The corolla of the small, irregular flower is in 2 divisions, the upper one with 2 narrow, upright parts, between which the stamens show; the lower one with 3 broad equal lobes; the color varies from deep lavender to light, and from a bluish to a pinkish tone, the lower division is marked with a broad white wedge-shaped spot near the throat. The small calyx has 5 thread-like divisions, green, tinged with lavender. From 3 to 4 flowers blossom at once on the top of the stem.

This little Lobelia flourishes especially in the limestone regions of the Green Mountains. It grows in communities among the short grass, beside some wayside spring or runlet; the flowers, all facing in the same direction, appear as though turned to greet the wayfarer. It is a plant of delicate finish and color, with a lithe and graceful gesture.

*Indian Tobacco.* _Lobelia inflata._

Found in damp places, and along roadside ditches, in August.

The leafy, sometimes branching stalk grows from 12 to 18 inches, and is not large, though less slender than the Spiked Lobelia, its texture being also coarser; it is very slightly rough to the touch, and light green in color.

The leaves near the foot are about an inch long, and a blunt oval shape; near the top they become smaller and narrower; with coarsely toothed margins, a thin texture, and dull green color. They clasp the stalk alternately.

The flowers are smaller than the other Lobelias mentioned; the corolla is lilac, with a white spot on the lower lip; the calyx, whose 5 divisions are thread-like, is purplish-green. The flowers, on their little foot-stems, are placed in a scattering fashion upon the stalk to form a long terminal spike; each flower is supported by a little leaf or bract.

As the blossoms fall the seed-pods swell into a round and inflated shape, which, together with the scantiness of its bloom, gives the spike an untidy look, unusual in this class of delicate forms and elegant proportions.

*Cardinal Flower.* _Lobelia cardinalis._

Found on the margins of small streams, in light shade, and in low moist ground, from July to October.

The single, rather large stalk is round, and somewhat irregularly grooved, smooth to the touch, and a full green color. It grows from 2 to 4 feet high.

The leaves are generally from 2 to 3 inches in length, tapering at both ends with the veins distinctly showing, and irregularly toothed margins; their texture is fine, and the color a full dark green. They are set immediately upon the stalk, in an alternate arrangement.

The irregular corolla is somewhat 2-lipped, with a long slender tube which is split down its upper side; the lower lip is broad and 3-cleft, the upper being narrow and in 2 parts; its color is a deep and glowing red, with a darker spot near the throat upon the lower lip. The pistil and 5 stamens, which curve outwards noticeably, are of a lighter red color with fine gray tips; the calyx is 5-parted and green. The flowers are arranged in a long, usually one-sided, spike.

Coming into bloom when the midsummer vegetation is growing dusty, this plant fills the eye with the richness of its dark green leafage toned into perfect accord with the glowing hue of its flowers,--their color a truly royal one, of unusual depth as well as brilliancy. The Cardinal Flower should not be plucked ruthlessly, lest it be exterminated, an ever-present danger to the beautiful annuals man appreciates. It can be cultivated from the seed with considerable success.

CAMPANULA FAMILY.

CAMPANULACEÆ.

*Venus’ Looking-glass.* _Specularia perfoliata._

Found in blossom from June through July, among the grass, in open fields, and on hills.

The simple stalk grows from 12 to 20 inches high; it is somewhat angled, and roughened on the angles; rather weak in fibre it leans against the surrounding vegetation. It is of a light green color.

The small, shell-shaped leaf is broad, heart-shaped at the base, with a scalloped margin. The leaves are strung on the stalk, alternately, at short distances; they are stiffish in texture, and light green in color.

The deeply divided 5-pointed corolla is a deep reddish-violet; there are 5 stamens, and the pistil is 3-parted; the long, cylindrical, green calyx has 5 slender points. The flowers grow from the angles of the leaves, there being usually a number open at once toward the top of the stalk.

The lower flower buds do not open, ripening their seeds without the show of blossoming. As the flowering season advances the stalk lengthens out into a long wand, strung with shell-like little green leaves, each one holding in its hollow a seed-case.

*Harebell.* _Campanula rotundifolia._

Found during July and August in rocky soil, along roadside thickets; in damp shade, or on exposed and barren uplands.

The stems of this lovely plant are very slender, like leafy wands, from 10 to 16 inches in height; they are firm and fine in fibre, smooth and shining, and bronzy-green.

The grass-like leaf is about an inch long, fine and thin and smooth; its color betrays the violet hues that temper all the green parts of the plant.

The blossom varies in size rather noticeably. Its corolla is shaped like a bell with 5 small pointed tips which curve outward to show the long lavender pistil with its malachite-green tip; the texture of the bell is delicately thin and yet firm, and the color an exquisite violet, which ranges from pale lavender, or even almost white, to a reddish-purple hue. The green calyx is 5-parted, its divisions very slender, half as long as the bell, and clinging closely to its shape. The many blossoms nod on thread-like stems.

In early spring the Harebell plant consists of a tuffet of small, round, slightly notched leaves, on spreading stems; these mostly disappear when the flowering stems begin to rise. In part, the swaying, flexile grace of gesture belonging to these flowers may be due to the light way in which the bells are caught in their tiny calices. When advanced in maturity the pistil becomes 3-parted and loses its vivid green tip. The Harebell is commonly credited with a love of shade, but it is frequently found in the crevices of exposed rock-ledges; and a favorite haunt, in one instance, is a bare mountain ridge, covered only by thick dry gray mosses, where these lovely bells nod amidst the Ebony Fern leaves (_A. ebeneum_), in thrifty vigor under the broad sunlight.

*Bellflower.* _Campanula rapunculoides._

Found in July on dry roadsides, and along walls and fences.

The stalk is single and leafy, slender, and slightly rough with hairs, from 2 to 4 feet in height; light green.

The root-leaves are small, and heart-shaped, with scalloped margins, set on stems that are sometimes 6 inches long. The lowest leaves along the stalk are shaped like an Indian arrow-point; the upper leaves are long and narrow: the margins are irregularly toothed, they are thin in texture, hairy, and light green; and are set on short broad stems which clasp the stalk alternately.

The corolla is bell-shaped with 5 outward-curving, tapering tips, and a beautiful violet-blue color; the pistil is 3-parted, protruding, and purple tinted; the green calyx is 5-parted, its divisions abruptly turned back. The flowers are set along one side of the stalk in the angles of the small upper leaves, forming a long wand-like spire.

Although the flowers bloom first at the base of the spire, frequently, when the tip has begun to hang out its noticeable bells, fresh buds will push forth far below, and open beside the old dried blossoms at the foot,--for the withered flower clings long to the calyx.

HEATH FAMILY.

ERICACEÆ.

*Trailing Arbutus.* _Epigæa repens._
*May flower.*
*Ground Laurel.*

Found in the woods, or clearings near woods, and upland pastures, during April. It particularly favors pine woods.

The branching leafy stalk is low, and trailing close to the ground under dry leaves and dead grass; it is tough and woody-fibred, and rough-hairy to the touch; rather slender. Its color is rusty brown, and very rich in tone.

The oval leaf is heart-shaped at the base, with a strong midrib which is somewhat taut and gives the entire margin usually an undulating character; the fibre is tough, and rough to the touch. The color is a strong positive green, more or less worm-eaten, and rust-spotted; it is evergreen. The leaves are set, on slender rough stems, alternately, at irregular intervals, and more closely near the flowers. The new leaves come after the blossoming time.

The flower has a tubular corolla, spreading into 5 rounded points; its color varies from an exquisite white to a deeply tinted rose; the inconspicuous stamens show only as a feathery, pale yellow ring in the centre. The 5-parted, pale green calyx is set around with 5 similar leafy bracts. The blossoms, on their little foot-stems, are gathered in close clusters along the ends of the stalk and branches. They exhale a sweet and spicy fragrance.

The plant, with its green and rusty leaves, hugs the earth so closely that often only the tips of the flowery clusters show here and there among the dried leaves, which almost conceal them from their friendly enemies, whose love of their beauty knows no better manner of exhibiting itself than by tearing the vine up by its roots. This selfish ignorance is fast exterminating the lovely flower in the populous districts of New England,--already it has become in certain place as mere tradition. As though in revenge, nature keeps fast the secret of its growth, and the Arbutus refuses to live in man’s care for more than one or two seasons.

*Cassandra.* _Cassandra calyculata._
*Leather-leaf.*

Found in April and May, in marshes and swamps, sometimes standing in water to the depth of two feet.

This shrub, about 3 or 4 feet high, branches often, and is tough-fibred; the bark when new is smooth, but is inclined to become frayed and to split when it is old. The color is brown, of a golden hue.

The leaf is oval, widest near the tip, the midrib is prominent beneath, the margin is entire and slightly thickened on the edge, the texture is coarse grained and tough, but not thick; while the upper surface is smooth and shining, the underside is dull. It is evergreen; in color green, rusty underneath. The arrangement is alternate, and close together, and the leaves are so set as to point upwards; their short stems are often reddish.

The corolla is a small 5-pointed bell, curved inwards at the throat and spreading its points to show the thread-like, green pistil; of a fine smooth texture and pure white; the 5-parted calyx is curved closely to the bell,--white, or yellow, or tawny-tinted; at its base are found 2 little rusty, or white bracts. The flowers are set on short rusty stems which grow from the angles of the leaves, and turn downward.

It is worth the effort to discover the shy Cassandra’s haunts, in order to see the bush, its slender branches set close with pretty hanging bells beneath the alert leaves, that stand upright above them, in watchful military rows.

*Marsh Andromeda.* _Andromeda polifolia._
*Wild Rosemary.*

Found in swamps and marsh lands, in May.

This shrub grows between 1 and 2 feet high; it is branching, leafy, and slender, with a woody fibre. The bark on the young shoots is smooth and firm, when old it is rough and inclined to split.

The leaf is evergreen. In shape it is long and needle-like, a resemblance caused by its closely rolled edges which give it a stiff erectness of bearing; the texture is firm and dry, its upper surface being slightly grained, though it is smooth underneath. In color it is a dark, rich green, pale beneath. The leaves are set, on very short tawny stems, close together, and alternately.

The mouth of the small bell-shaped flower is almost closed; its oval form is diversified by the little pinched folds which run up from between its 5 little tips. In color it is a rosy tinted white; the little 5-parted calyx being colored like the corolla. The bells are set on short white foot-stems that are enfolded by tiny greenish-pink bracts; they are close gathered in small groups, and nod at the ends of the branches.

The fine-pointed leaves, whatever the angle from which they spring, all turn upward, giving a curious flat and conventionally decorative effect to the branches.

*Privet Andromeda.* _Andromeda ligustrina._

Found in moist wayside thickets and swamps; blossoming in June.

The tough, woody stalk, erect, branching, and leafy, is covered with a smooth, light gray bark. It grows from 3 to 6, or more, feet in height.

The small leaves are from 1 to 2 inches long, tapering at both ends; they are alternate, on very short foot-stems. The margin is entire, or very finely notched, surface smooth, and texture firm. Color, green.

The small, bell-shaped flower is nearly round, with 5 tiny, recurved points at the top. It is inconspicuous in color, being of a dull greenish white, the tawny stamens showing within. The flowers, on short, curved stems, hang from one side of the twigs, on the ends of the branches.

The seed-case is small, round, brown, and 5-parted; it is especially noticeable in winter and early spring, and is at all times more attractive to the eye than the colorless flowers,--it adds a graceful touch to the winter bouquet gathered by the twig-loving wayfarer.

*Pink Azalea.* _Rhododendron nudiflorum._
*Swamp Pink.*
*Honeysuckle.*

Found in swamps, moist woods, and on hillsides in May.

This woody-fibred, branching, and leafy shrub, varies in height from 3 to 6 feet; it has a light, warm-gray bark, nearly smooth to the touch.

The charming leaf is oval in shape, tapering at both ends, with an entire margin; its texture is thin, and the fine surface bears a few soft short scattering hairs. In color it is a light pure golden green. The growth is alternate, and somewhat clustering.

The large flower is, in shape, a long slender tube spreading at the top into 5 long-pointed divisions with a fold in the center of each; the 5 stamens and pistil are all long and slender, extending their curving ends far out from the tube; the calyx is hardly noticeable. The color of the corolla varies from pale to deep rose-pink, the tone deepening toward the base of the tube, while the stamens and pistil are rosy crimson,--the tip of the pistil is pinkish-brown. The flowers grow in groups of 5 or more, on short pale green stems, from the ends of the branches. They are very fragrant.

The very essence of spring seems to dwell in the pink and green colors and the spicy breath of this Azalea. The gesture in dropping its flowers is graceful,--the blossom, sliding down the long pistil, hangs swaying on its tip for some time before it finally drops softly to the earth. The branches, especially the lower ones, swing out from the bush in long free curves.

*White Azalea.* _Rhododendron viscosum._

Found in swamps and wet lands during July.

This shrub grows from 4 to 6 or even 7 feet high, and branches less regularly than the Pink Azalea, and is somewhat less leafy in habit; it is rather slender, woody-fibred, and the bark is dry and slightly rough. In color, reddish-gray.

The oval leaf is widest near the tip whose extreme point is noticeably sharp; its midrib is marked, and the margin is entire, the edge and underside of the midrib being hairy; the texture is thin and firm, the upper surface glossy. The color of the new growths is a fine green (less golden than its sister) which becomes dark when older. The leaves grow in clustered groups.

The flower is smaller than the earlier Azalea, and its points are more curled; it is pure white in color, the outside of the tube being covered with tiny red hairs which are sticky to the touch. The white stamens, with their straw-colored tips, are shorter than the pistil which is faintly pink-tinted, with a darker tip. The calyx is not observable without close inspection; the green foot-stems are very short; and the flowers are grouped terminally upon the twigs.

There is a reddish tinge to the bud, and the flower is delightfully odorous, and the blooming time is pleasantly prolonged.

*Low Blueberry.* _Vaccinium vacillans._

Found in dry uplands, and light woods, in May.

The woody, branching stalk, from 1 to 2 feet high, has a smooth, thin, green bark.

The oval leaves are small, about an inch long, unbroken on the edge, and set opposite each other on scarcely perceptible stems; they are rather few in number, fine in texture, smooth, and of a light green color.

The small, bell-like corolla is slightly contracted at the top, 5-parted, with the small tips rolled back. Color white, more or less tinged and streaked with light red. There are 10 orange-tipped stamens, and 1 pale green pistil; the 5-parted calyx is green, tinged with red. The flowers hang on short stems, drooping in clusters of 5 to 7, or more, from the ends of the twigs.

The flowers appear while the leafage still shows the red flush of the new growth. The green twiggery of this low bush gives an early promise of spring, long before the leaves think of showing themselves. The round, sweet and juicy berries, dark blue with a fine bloom, surrounded by the harmonious green of the leafage, have a decided charm of color too rarely noted by those who seek them for their edible qualities only.

*Deerberry.* _Vaccinium stamineum._
*Squaw Huckleberry.*

Found in June, in dry woods.

A branching, leafy shrub, which grows from 2 to 4 feet high; its stalk is stout, and woody, and covered with a gray bark.

The oval leaf seems rather small for the size of the bush; it has an entire margin, a firm texture that is somewhat tough-fibred, and smooth surface. Color, light green, and pale beneath. The leaves are set on very short stems, alternately.

The small bell-shaped corolla spreads into 5 outward curving points; it is white. The stamens form a close, pointed cluster about the pistil and hang out from the flower bell,--they are dull orange in color; the small calyx is green. These bells swing on slender stems, from the angles of little leaves, in thick clusters along the lower sides of the branches.

The Deerberry’s branches stretch out in a nearly horizontal direction; its profusion of pretty bells begin to open while still undeveloped, and are about a fortnight in coming to their full beauty, to which a pleasing touch of individuality is given by the orange-tipped stamens. The fruit is flat to the taste, and gives the bush its second folk-name.

*Mountain Laurel.* _Kalmia latifolia._

Found in rocky pastures, uplands and light woods, and swampy grounds, in June.

This is a large shrub varying in height from 4 to 8 feet, and occasionally taller. Its stalk and branches are more or less twisted and angular in growth, and woody, of a fibre compact and tough; the old growths are covered with a roughened gray bark.

The beautiful leaf is evergreen; of an oval shape, with a tapering tip, an entire margin, strong midrib, a firm fine texture, and a smooth surface. The color is a fine dark green in the old growths, a light vigorous green when new. The leaves, on very short stems, are usually placed alternately, but are sometimes opposite each other, and toward the end of the branches are clustered.

The corolla is bowl-shaped, with 5 or 6 points; around the middle of this bowl are 10 little pockets,--each one of which holds the tip of a stamen until it is ready to spring out and scatter its pollen,--these pockets, or sacs, projecting on the outside of the bowl, form little spurs all around it. The color of the flower is white, or pink; in the bottom of the bowl a 10-pointed star is outlined in dark crimson, and flecks of crimson occur just above the little pockets. The tiny seed-box in the center is green; the elastic stamens are silky white; the little calyx is green; the flower-stems pale and sticky. The flowers form large and conspicuous clusters on the ends of the branches.

The flowers and buds have a pretty shell-like quality. Shortly after flowering, the vigorous light green shoots put forth, and the ripening seed-boxes take on a crimson hue, making the Laurel pasture all aglow a second time with rich color. This 5-angled seed-box, turned to brown, remains throughout the winter in pleasing contrast to the fine evergreen leafage.

*Pale Laurel.* _Kalmia glauca._

Found in cold bogs and swamps, during June.

This shrub is between 1 and 2 feet in height; it is woody-fibred, hard and firm, with a thin, close bark. The branches are curious in growth, being formed of short sections that are two-edged and somewhat flat; these sections are placed alternately and at right angles to each other. The color is a dark rich brown.

The leaf is oblong, with a blunt tip, and a noticeably rolled-under edge; the surface is glossy above, and the texture is tough. It is evergreen, dark above and whitey-green underneath, the midrib being yellowish. The leaves grow in pairs, upon very short stems that spring from the section-joints, at right angles to each other.

The flower is small, similar to the Mountain Laurel; of a clear light crimson color, with dark-tipped stamens. The blossoms are set on dull crimson-red stems, and arranged in terminal groups.

This is rather rare, and not easy to become acquainted with owing to its preference for swamp holes. The tiny seed-pods on their thread stems are very pretty.

*Sheep’s Laurel.* _Kalmia angustifolia._

Found on upland slopes and hilly pastures, in June.

This branching, very leafy, bush is 18 inches to 2 or 3 feet in height, with a woody fibre, and tough bark. The new shoots are green, the older growths turning to reddish-brown.

The leaf is a long oval, with a rolled-under edge; not large, but otherwise like that of the Mountain Laurel. It is evergreen, the old growths dark and dull, with rusty spots of weather-wear; the fresh leaves are bright green, the midrib being yellow, with a hint of pink underneath. The leaves are set on short stems, and placed in little groups near together.

The blossom is smaller and more shallow than the Mountain Laurel; it is in color a strong dark pink, with the star design outlined in dark crimson. The 10 stamens are shining, and pale pink, with crimson tips; the curved pistil is light pink. The flowers, on tiny foot-stems, are arranged in loose clusters, of a dozen or more, upon a short stem; these clusters are placed in a whorl about the stalk, at the summit of last year’s growth, and beneath the over-topping new shoot.

The old leaves bend downward, while the new stretch themselves upward, holding their tips nearly erect.

*Shinleaf.* _Pyrola elliptica._

Found in the woods in June.

The little underground stalk throws up a few leaves, and a flower stem which reaches 6 or 8 inches in height.

The leaf is round, or oval, showing the midrib and veins, with an entire margin whose edge curls under, and a tough leathery fibre. It is evergreen, dark and strong in color, the ribs and veins being whitish. It is set on a short, margined, reddish stem, which is protected at the ground by an enfolding dark sheath.

The 5 petals of the flower form a cup; they are thin and waxen in texture, and are pale greenish-white; the 10 yellow-tipped white stamens huddle all together in the upper part of the cup; the long curved pistil is down-bent; the calyx is 5-parted, flat, and green. Several flowers on short, down-turned, green-reddish stems, are placed together upon a slender, erect, green stem which rises from the ground; it is tinted reddish at its base, and midway its length bears one small red-green bract.

There is a smack of individuality about this plant; it presents an appearance of being self-sufficing, and exclusive, though growing in more or less numerous companionship with its kindred.

*Small Pyrola.* _Pyrola secunda._

Found in woodlands during June and July.

The 3- to 6-inch-long flower-stem springs, along with several leaves, from the top of an underground, somewhat square, stalk.

The leaf is oval, with a somewhat pointed tip, a midrib that is strong and prominent above as well as beneath, and a finely scalloped margin; its texture is thin and firm, and its surface glossy; it is evergreen. Set on slender trough-like short stems, the leaves form a small group. In color a fine, clear green.

The flower is small; the 5 obtuse-pointed, greenish-white petals curve in the shape of a bell, the slightly curving, green pistil protruding; the 5-parted calyx is very small and greenish. The flowers, on their little foot-stems, are set along the stem in a nodding row, whose weight, apparently, pulls the erect stem to one side. A few tiny leafkins occur on this stem.

When the flowers fall, the little 5-scalloped seed-pods with the long pistils remain long in their places. The buds do not open in regular sequence, as is usual among blossoms similarly arranged.

*One-flowered Pyrola.* _Moneses grandiflora._

Found usually in pine woods, by shaded brooks, in June.

The small, round, and pale stalk runs along the earth just under its surface, and terminates in a rosette of a few leaves, loosely lying upon the ground, and a flower stem from 2 to 4 inches high.

The round leaf is very smooth underneath, while the ribs and veins we prominent above; the margin is finely notched, and the texture is thin. In color a rich, cool green.

The 5-pointed petals of the flower are a shallow shell-shape; their margins curl under somewhat, their texture is thin and waxen, and their surface is smooth to the touch; color, white, inclined to ivory. The 10 white stamens have curious 2-horned, dull-yellow tips,--they lie back, with a quick curve, in the hollows of the petals; the bright green pistil bends, or curves downward; the flat 5-parted calyx is very small. The single flower is set on the crook-like tip of the pale-green flower-stem, which bears one or two tiny pale bracts.

This boldly curved crook of the flower-stem is completely straightened when the petals fall,--the seed-box is held upright. Like most of its tribe this is a gregarious little plant, and grows in plantations.

*Prince’s Pine.* _Chimaphila umbellata._
*Pipsissewa.*

Found in dry woods during July.

The simple leafy stalk varies from 4 to 10 inches in height, and is round, tough-fibred, and woody at the base. Color, green.

The oblong leaf is widest toward the tip, and tapering toward the base; the margin is notched, the texture is fine, firm, and thick, with a smooth and shining surface. The color is dark green, lighter beneath; it is evergreen. The leaves, on very short stems, grow in whorls of 5 (generally speaking), about the stalk.

The flower has 5 rounded, concave, white petals, with a rose colored ring marked in its center; the 10 pinkish stamens are set around the large, conical, green pistil, whose summit is flat and sticky; the small 5-parted calyx is green. Several flowers, on short curving stems, grow in a cluster, from the top of the flower-stem.

Pipsissewa’s seed-cases are interesting; they are round and brown, and, borne upright on the end of the slender stems, are truly decorative in aspect, and with the shining green leaves remain unchanged by winter’s cold. In Maine the plant is called “Love-in-winter.”

*Spotted Wintergreen.* _Chimaphila maculata._

Found in dry woods, commonly under evergreen trees, in July.

The dull red, tough stem, 5 or 6 inches in height, bears one or two whorls of leaves.

The leaves, about 2 inches long, are tapering at the tip, with a few small notches on the margin; they are thick, and leathery, with a smooth surface, and are set in whorls of 4 or 5 on short foot-stems. In color, dark green, with the ribs marked out by broad lines of light.

In general form, the flower is much like that of the Pipsissewa. The petals are white, the stamens pale cream, and the pistil green.

This form of the Pipsissewa is less common in the New England than in the Middle States. Its variegated leaves are a pleasing, somewhat rare note in our winter leafage.

*Wintergreen.* _Gaultheria procumbens._

Found during July in woods, and along the edges of woods.

The creeping stalk sends up an erect stem, leafy at the top, about 4 or 5 inches high, woody-fibred and tough, and smooth to the touch. Its color is green,--red toward the root.

The leaf is a broad oval, with a rounded tip, an obscurely notched margin, of a tough and thick fibre, and smooth, polished surface. It is evergreen: when old a dark green, often bronzy; more yellow-green, tinged with dull red, when young. The alternate leaves, on very short stems, are clustered at the top of the stalk.

The small bell-shaped flower is minutely 5-parted, and all white. The flowers, on short curving stems, grow singly from the angles of the leaves, hanging their bells downward.

The fruit is round and small, a bright cherry red in color; it ripens in the fall and remains throughout snow-time, always ready to lend its glowing color, with the bronzy leaves that surround it, to a winter bouquet from the woods. The new shoots put forth from the ground in June, and are called “youngsters” in the country; they have an aromatic, pungent flavor, and going “youngstering” is a favorite diversion of childhood. The plant is a great colonist, and year after year its plantations thrive in the same localities.

*False Beech Drops.* _Monotropa Hypopitys._
*Pine Sap.*

Found growing upon the roots of pine or oak trees, from June to September.

The single and erect stalk is about 6 or 8 inches high; thick, fleshy, and smooth, or downy. It is pale at the foot, deepening to a crimson-red near the flowers.

The small and sheath-like bracts are indeterminate in shape, thin and dry. In color yellow-red, turning blackish when withered. A few only occur upon the stalk.

The small flowers are irregularly vase-shaped, and composed of 8 or 10 narrow fleshy parts with crinkled tips; they are set on short stems, in the clasp of a bract, and arranged in terminal groups of 2 to 5 in number. The color is rosy-red, with yellow tips,--flowers, bracts, and the top of the stalk following the same scheme of color.

A parasite, growing upon the roots, and, though not unpleasing in general aspect when perfectly fresh, betraying the base quality of its nature when mature, for an unwholesome mould spreads over its parts as it grows old. When first opened the flowers turn down, but become erect with age.

*Indian Pipe.* _Monotropa uniflora._
*Corpse Plant.*

Found in dark, damp woods, from June to August.

The thick, round, flower-stem varies from 3 to 8 inches in height, and is fleshy, smooth, and clammy. Its color is white, or faintly flesh-tinted.

The small, scaly bracts, which serve for leaves, are white.

The large bell-shaped flower is formed of 5 long, narrow, fleshy white parts, whose tips flare a little. The 10 stamens are dull tawny. The flowers are nodding, usually solitary, though sometimes 2 or even 3 are grouped on one stem.

A parasitic growth on roots and decaying vegetable matter, speedily turning black when gathered, the Indian Pipe displays none of the pleasing attributes commonly associated with healthful sun-loving vegetation. It is, by nature, designed for the semi-twilight of the dark forest, and illy bears transportation into the brighter light of the open; even in the shadows of the woods, it is often found covered by dead leaves.

PRIMROSE FAMILY.

PRIMULACEÆ.

*Star-flower.* _Trientalis Americana._
*Star Anemone.*
*Star-of-Bethlehem.*
*Chickweed Wintergreen.*

Found in moist shade during May.

This very slender and smooth little stalk grows from 3 to 5 inches in height, bears one or two sheath-like leaves near the root, and terminates in a whorl of leaves at the top. It is green, slightly reddish at the foot.

The long leaf is sharp-pointed at both ends, with an entire margin, a thin and delicate texture which shows plainly the pattern-like tracery of the ribs and veins, and a shining surface; the color is a full green. 6, or more, leaves, of unequal size, spread in a whorl upon the summit of the stalk.

The flower has 7 nearly diamond-shaped parts, of a thin texture, and pure white color; they spread flat, their edges just overlapping in a 7-pointed star, the 7 long, and narrow, greenish divisions of the calyx alternating with them; the 10 thread-like stamens are white, with orange tips. A single flower, borne on a slender stem, rises from the whorl of leaves.

The number of the corolla-divisions sometimes varies, but 7 is the usual measure. It is noticeable that the flower-stem is set a trifle underneath the lap of the leaves, causing an inclination of the star to one side. A tiny leaf is found sitting on the stalk just under the leafy canopy.

*Loosestrife.* _Lysimachia quadrifolia._

Found in moist grounds, and woods, in June and July.

The single stalk, from 12 to 18 inches in height, is hairy and faintly ridgy, and light green in color.

The leaf is oval and pointed at both ends; from 2 to 3 inches long, with a strong midrib; the upper surface smooth to the touch, the lower hairy, and the color yellow-green. The leaves are set close on the stalk in whorls of fours and fives, with a single pair occurring near the foot of the stalk.

The divisions of the flower are 5, long-pointed, fine in texture, and light yellow, with a few tiny red streaks, and a bright red marking at their base; the 5 erect, pale yellow stamens, tipped with tawny, are united at the foot in a collar; the calyx-parts are 5, narrow, pointed, and light green. The flowers, set on thread-like stems spring from the angles of the leaves,--a flower for each leaf.

As many as six or seven whorls of leaves, four often accompanied by flowers, are found on a single stalk.

*Spike Loosestrife.* _Lysimachia stricta._

Found in moist lands and fields, in July.

The stalk, from 12 to 18 inches in height, is branching near the top, leafy, and smooth, but grooved beneath the branches; it is hollow, and has a stiff fibre; pale yellow-green.

The long and narrow oval leaf is sometimes 2 and 3 inches long and only ½ an inch in width; its texture is thin, its surface very smooth, and the margin entire. The color is a light yellow-green. The leaves clasp the stalk in pairs, which occur at right angles to each other, and are near together.

The flowers are about half an inch across, otherwise in color and shape exactly resembling _L. quadrifolia_; they are set on inch long stems, and arranged in irregular rings about the stalk, forming a noticeable feathery spike, 5 or 6 inches in length.

The blossoms open first at the bottom of the spike, several rings flowering at one time. The branches occur in pairs, symmetrically.

*----* _Steironema ciliatum._

Found in low places, and among shrubby growths, in July.

The single, smooth, 4-angled stalk is from 2 to 3 feet in height, and a shining, light green color, sometimes bronzy.

The leaf is long oval, blunt or very slightly heart-shaped at the base, tapering to a long and very sharp tip; the margin is entire, the ribs noticeable, and the upper surface is velvety to the touch; the color light green. The leaves are set on short stems, which are fringed with erect hairs along their upper edges, and arranged in pairs, the pairs being at right angles to each other.