NATIKAT. 0RDKR8. 137
this remarkable, and I believe, peculiar structure of ovariiun, that induced nic to propose, not their absolute union into one family, but their approximation in the luitural series. I at (he same time/ however, pointed out all the objections that j\I. de Jussieu has since stated to this affniity.^
Of these objections the two principal arc the double floral envelope and ovarium superum of Olax, opposed to the simple perianthiuni and ovarium inferuni in Santalacea*.
The first objection loses nuich of its importance, both on considering that QuiNchamaliuvi, a genus in every other [Vo?> respect resembling Thesium, has an outer floral cnveloi)e surrounding its ovarium, and having more the usual ap- pearance of calyx than that of Olax ; and also in adverting to the generally admitted association of Loranthus and Viscum, of which the former is provided with both calvx and corolla, the latter, in its male flowers at hast, with only a single envelope, and that analagous to the corolla of Loranthus."
The second objection seems to be equally weakened by the obvious affinity of Santalaceac to J'Jxocarjms, which has not only ovarium superum, but the fleshy receptacle of whose fruit, similar to that of Taxus, perfectly rcsend3les, and may be supposed in some degree analogous to, the enlarged calyx of certain species of Olax.
To these objections M. de Jussieu has added a third, which, were it well founded, would be more formidable than either of them, namely, that the ovarium of Santalacea? is monospermous ; ^ a statement, however, which I conclude must have proceeded from mere inadvertency.
URTICE^. In the collection the plants of this family, taking it in the most extensive sense, and considerini)- it as a class rather than an order, belong chietly to Ficu-^^, of which there are seven species. One of these is very nearly related to Picus religiosa ; and like that species in India, is regarded as a sacred tree on the banks of the Congo.
' Pinch: Flor. Nov. Hull. 1, /;. 351. Flinck/'s' Foy. 2, ;;. 571-?. {Jfi^t; p. 4L)
= M<uii. du Mus. d'llist. Nuf. 2, ;;. 439.
' Prodr. Flor. Nov. Hull. 1, /;. 352.
' Mem. di( Mks. d'lIisL Nat. 2, p. 439.
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