[1770] The cultivated hemp is the Cannabis sativa of Linnæus.
[1771] He is speaking of the hemp marsh-mallow here, and not the real hemp; though at the same time he mingles with his statement several facts which are stated by Dioscorides with reference to the genuine hemp. See B. xix. c. [56].
[1772] This is evidently stated in reference to the hemp-mallow.
[1773] For an account of the Ferula, see B. xiii. c. 42.
[1774] An accidental circumstance, Fée says, and no distinctive mark of sex or species.
[1775] Fée thinks that Pliny’s meaning is, that it is eaten as a confection, similar to those of angelica and parsley stalks at the present day. That, however, would hardly appear to be the sense of the passage. In B. xix. c. 56, he speaks of it being dried and used as a seasoning.
[1776] Fennel-giant is considered to be a good stomachic.
[1777] This, Fée thinks, is probably the fact.
[1778] The pith, in reality, of the Umbelliferæ, is insipid and inert.
[1779] In B. xix. c. 43.