The flower is larger than those of the other Cinquefoils described; of 5 rounded petals, with slender bases, fine texture and smooth surface; strong yellow in color. There are many short, dark-tipped stamens. The calyx is 5-parted, with an equal number of alternating bracts beneath; it is shining smooth on the inside and downy without; yellow-green, the bracts being greener,—they are also less downy. The flowers, on short downy stems, form leafy close terminal groups.
Possessed of an almost indestructible toughness, and rapid in growth, this plant is one of the worst of pests, sometimes usurping a whole field, from which it is a formidable task to dislodge it. It has been largely introduced into western Vermont through garden cultivation. The petals fall quickly; seen in great masses the general hue is coarse and unpleasing.
SHRUBBY CINQUEFOIL: P. fructicosa.
SAXIFRAGE FAMILY.
SAXIFRAGACEÆ.
| Early Saxifrage. | Saxifraga Virginiensis. |
| Rock-Breaker. |
Found blossoming in April and May, in rocky grounds and hillsides.
The leaves and flowering stems, from 4 to 9 inches in height, rise from the root.
The small oval leaves have rounded tips, short broad foot-stems, and scalloped edges; their texture is thick and smooth, and their color a vigorous green. They form a close round tuffet upon the ground.
The small flowers have 5 long white petals and 10 yellow stamens apiece; their light green calices are 5-parted; and they grow in open clusters on the summit of a thick, round, and downy stem, which rises from the middle of the leafy rosette.