Much as we are inclined to tread in the beaten path of our predecessors, and, more particularly, that of the greatest luminary of this intricate science, Linnæus, yet can we, but with regret, forbear an alteration we think so necessary, in the classification of this genus. That the class Gynandria may, or ought to be excluded from the twenty-four, we shall not be forward to give our suffrage, in conjunction with some modern reformers; and, as they term themselves, improvers upon the Linnæan system; but, whilst it is retained, this genus has stronger claims, in our opinion, upon it, than any which has hitherto been thrown to it. Indeed we had so classed it, upon such grounds had formed its generic character; and had hopes, no one would have disputed our position as just, upon an inspection of the dissections annexed to the figure. Yet fearing, by some, it might be considered as a perplexing innovation; for innovation in all cases is certainly more or less so, the genus having passed the scrutinising ordeal of so many botanists; we have, reluctantly, for the present, given up what, nevertheless, we shall consider as necessary for some bolder hand than ourselves to undertake.[Pg 514]
PLATE CCLXXII.
EMBOTHRIUM LINEARE.
Narrow-leaved Embothrium.
CLASS IV. ORDER I.
TETRANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Four Chives. One Pointal.
ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.
Calyx nullus. Corolla tetrapetala. Stamina limbo petalorum inserta. Folliculus polyspermus. Semina alata.
Empalement none. Blossom four-petalled. Chives inserted into the limb of the petals. A one-celled pod many seeded. Seeds winged.
See Embothrium sericeum, Pl. C. Vol. II.