Rensselaer Republican, Volume 16, Number 42, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 26 June 1884 — Adaptive Mimicry in Plants. [ARTICLE]

Adaptive Mimicry in Plants.

An extremely curious Chinese plant, called the Hias-taa-tom-ehom, exists in the Flowery Empire. The name of this singular plant means that dnring summer it is a vegetable, hut that in winter it becomes a worm. If it is observed closely at the latter end of September, nothing simulates better the eye of a yellow worm about four inches in length. The apparent transformation takes place gradually, and one can see head, eyes, bodv, etc., in course of formation. This plant is extremely rare; it is to be met with in Thibet, and in the Emperor’s garden at Pekin, where it is reserved for medicinal purposes. The Chinese savants say it is a capital strengthening medicine. Attempts are being made to acclimatize it in South Africa. Lilium Avrattm, whether planted in the open border or pots, requires deep Elanting. It is a good idea to place a ttle clean sand about the bulb on first Betting out. The situation in the garden should not be too much exposed to the sun, but on the contrary partially shaded. Bulbs planted in pots should have a period of rest after flowering. Good drainage is absolutely essential to all lilies. What, think yon, is the rose or lily the queen? the one “love” the other “purity.”