4. The Pointal, cleared of the other parts of fructification.
As an annual, this is a most beautiful little plant; but, although the seeds have been received several times, from the Cape of Good Hope, where it is native; and first at the Royal Gardens, Kew, in 1787, sent by Mr. F. Masson; yet, has it never been seen the second year; owing, we suppose, to the impracticability of procuring ripe seeds in our climate. Perhaps future trials, by different treatment, may meet with a happier issue. The figure was taken at the Clapham Garden, in August 1800; when the plant had apparently attained its greatest perfection; but unfortunately, no seeds ripened; and at present, we believe, there is no vestige of the plant in Britain. It appears to delight in sandy peat, and to be kept under cover, even in the summer season.[Pg 382]
PLATE CCXXXIX.
GERANIUM SELINUM.
Rock-Parsley-leaved Geranium.
CLASS XVI. ORDER IV.
MONADELPHIA DECANDRIA. Threads united. Ten Chives.
ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.
Monogyna. Stigmata quinque.
Fructus rostratus, penta-coccus.