The New Check-List of PlantsList of Pteridophyta and Spermatophyta Growing without Cultivation in Northeastern North America.

Abstract

Recent Literature. 349 tions of the students in its native habitat. As a matter of fact, however, the author does not adhere strictly to the advice above given but generally takes it for granted that the plant has also been observed while growing. Chapters are given on seeds, germination, the root, stem, leaf, flower and fruit. Then the so-called flowerless pla nts are taken up, and the sea weeds and their allies,' molds and rusts, mosses and liverworts, ferns and horsetails are studied. The conifers and leading families of monocotyledons and dicotyledons follow in their natural order. Each chapter begins with a list of material needed for study, contains minute and practical directions to the student and closes with an admirable summary. Copious references to the literature of the subjects are given in foot notes. One of the most valuable features of the work are the numerous questions asked and the special topics for stud y which the author suggests under each group. Simple physiological experiments, such as any student working alone, or teacher even in our district schools can easily perform, are described. Such subjects as seed dispersion and protection, fertilization, assimilation, respiration, and transpiration, adaptation of various plant organs to their environment as well as plant relationships are treated in a fresh and interesting manner quite different from the ordinary laboratory guides. When one considers the great diversity and looseness of terminology employed by many prominent botanical writers, the difficulty as well as the necessity is apparent of having accurate definitions and plant descriptions. The glossary at the close of Professor Spalding's Guide is most commendable, and constitutes one of the many admirable characters of work which we heartily commend to all lovers of plant life. Not only secondary schools, but also students working by themselves will find it exceedingly helpful. We know of nothing better adapted to the short winter courses given by some of our Agricultural Colleges, and for use in University Extension instruction.