Cephalanthus occidentalis. 57
fourths of an inch long, smooth, carmine-red. Costa prominent, bright
carmine-red. Veins raised, of a straw-yellow colour. The leaves
are most frequently opposite, in pairs, but often by threes. Flowers
numerous, very fragrant, in a globular form at the ends of the branches,
about the size of a small walnut, cream-white, with the stigmas
projecting. Florets funnel-form, four-cleft, segments ovate, style
exserted, as long as the corolla. Stigma capitate, yellow. Grows
throughout the union on the margins of water-courses. Flowering in
July.
The genus Cephalanthus is peculiar to North America, and contains
only one well known species. A variety with pubescent leaves
is said by Dr. Baldwin to grow near Riceborough, in Georgia. The
inner bark of the plant figured here, is said to be possessed of tonic
properties. My inquiries on this subject have induced me to believe,
that it is worth the attention of country practitioners.
The table represents the plant as large as nature.