between its lobes. Sir J . E. Smith says that these filaments
are wanting in M. annua, but I think that they may always
be found by a minute examination of either flower or
fruit. In that plant they are much shorter than in the
species before us, not being more than half as long as the
fruit; they are also much more slender.
Different as this plant appears from M. annua, I have still
doubts concerning its specific distinction; and it is much to
be wished that some botanist, who may have the requisite
opportunities, would submit it to experiment in cultivation.
Notwithstanding my doubts I think that it would be far
from judicious to reduce it to a variety, as has been done
by De Candolle, until such experiments have been carefully
made.
I am informed by my friend Mr. Borrer, that this plant
has recently been found in the Isle of Wight by Dr.
Bromfield. Our specimens were gathered, July the 25th,
18o7,in Jersey, where it frequently occurs upon waste stony
land by road sides. It appears to flower throughout the
summer.—C. C. B.