[1640] See B. xii. c. 56, and B. xix. c. [52]. Some writers have supposed, but apparently without any sufficient authority, that this is the Ferula communis of Linnæus. Fée is of opinion that one of the Umbelliferæ is meant.
[1641] In B. xix. c. 53.
[1642] It is probable, Fée says, that Pliny does not intend here to speak of the calyx as understood by modern botanists, but the corolla of the plant. The calyx disappears immediately after the plant has blossomed; and is never employed by medical men at the present day, who confine themselves to the heads or capsules.
[1643] The variety Album of the Papaver somniferum. See B. xix. c. [53].
[1644] The variety A. nigrum of the Papaver somniferum of Decandolle.
[1645] The incisions are made in the capsules, and towards the upper part of the peduncle. The account given by Pliny, Fée remarks, differs but little from that by Kæmpfer, in the early part of last century.
[1646] Nine in the morning.
[1647] This plan, Fée thinks, would not be attended with advantage.
[1648] A name, probably, of Eastern origin, and now universally employed.
[1649] “Bilbilis” has been suggested.