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Full text of "Annual report of the state botanist"

MARINE BIOLOGICAL LABORATORY. 

Received fJ,u.,L^ . /^ c/J 

Accession No. -< -- '—' 

Given by 

Place, 



*4*No book OP pamphlet is to be femoved fpom the Uab- 
oiiatopy ujltt:iout tKe pefrnisslon of the Trustees. 




' 3 3 4 3 



[FRoa TUB 48th Report of the New York State Huseqm] 



University of the State of New York 



ANNUAL REPORT 



OF THE 



STATE BOTANIST 



Made to the Regents of the University, Pursuant to 
Chapter 355 of the Laws of 1883 



By CHARLES H. PECK 



Second edition 



ALBANY 

UNIVERSITY OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK . 
1897 



State of New York. 



No. 68. 



IN S B N A T E, 



Jandaet, 1895. 



ANNUAL REPORT 



OF thk 



STATE BOTANIST 



Office of the State Botakist, 
Albany, January, 1895. 

To the Honorable the Regents of the University of the State 
of New YorJk : 

I have the honor to present to you my annual report for 

the year 1894. 

Yery respectfully. 

CHARLES H. PECK. 



REPORT. 



To the Honorable the Regents of the University of the State of 
New York : 

Gentlemen. — I have the honor of communicating to you the 
following report, covering the time from September, 1893, to 
July, 1894. 

Specimens of plants for the State Herbarium have been col- 
lected by the Botanist in the counties of Albany, Clinton, Essex, 
Oneida, Rensselaer, Suffolk, Ulster and Washington. 

The number of species of which specimens have been added to 
the Herbarium is 115, of which L'4 were not previously represented 
therein. The species described as new are 10. A list of added 
species is marked A. 

Correspondents to the nuraberof 11 have contributed specimens. 
Most of these specimens represent extra limital species, but live 
species new to the State are represented by them and four new 
to science. A list of the contributors and of their contributions 
is marked B. 

A record of species not previously recognized as belonging to 
our flora, together with descriptions of new species, is marked C. 

Notes and observations on species already recorded will be 
found uuder D. 

The genus Carex is one of the largest, and at tlie same time one 
of the most distinct and most easily recognized, of all our plant 
genera. In the Flora of the State of New York, Dr. John Torrey 
records 91 species belonging to this genus. In 1^S1 the number 
of New York species had increased to 119. At the present time 
we have more than 130 species. Only 29 are recorded in the 
Manual that have not been found in our State, and six of these 
are introduced species and yet quite limited in their range. The 



6 BEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

genus is a most interesting one to botanists who have acquired 
even a limited knowledge of it, but many pass it by as unworthy 
their attention or too full of difficulties to permit of the easy 
identification of the species. To many beginners in the study of 
botany these plants have been a kind of botanical bugbear. The 
difficulties attending their study seem to have been needlessly 
increased by defective descriptions, by a failure in some cases to 
detect the proper limits of species, and by throwing together and 
describing as one species forms that should be kept separate. In 
the last edition of the Manual there are many instances of the 
reduction of forms which in earlier years were considered 
good species by our most eminent botanists, so that they 
now stand as mere varieties to other related forms. Such 
a grouping of distinct forms seems to me to be opposed 
to that clear and accurate discrimination which the study 
of natural science ought to cultivate, and its tendency seems to 
be to encourage habits of careless observation and loose general- 
ization. Some carices, it is true, resemble each other closely, but 
so long as they have constant characteristic differences, even 
though these may be slight, it seems to me much better to recog- 
nize these differences and give them their just value in classifica- 
tion. And just here appears to be one cause for the absorbing 
interest with which the study of these plants is invested. The 
close observation and the nice discrimination requisite in distin- 
guishing closely allied species is most gratifying to an ardent 
student of nature intent on finding her hidden truths and solving 
her most intricate problems. And it is no mean accomplishment 
to be able to recognize accurately the characters that require the 
separation of closely related species of this genus. 

One species not recognized in the Manual has recently been 
detected by Dr. Howe, others that have hitherto been regarded 
as mere varieties arc, I am confident, worthy of specific value, 
and still other forms that have not been recorded have occurred. 
Influenced by these facts, and having in view the large number 
of species that belong to our flora, it has seemed desirable to me 
to bring together in one report the revised descriptions of all our 
New York species and varieties of tiie genus Carex. 

This will facilitate the study of the carices of our State and 
give to New York botanists an additional incentive to the study 



EEPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 7 

of these interesting plants. I deem myself fortunate in having 
enlisted the interest and the aid of Dr. E. C. Howe in this work. 
Dr. Howe has long made a special study of the carices and his 
thorough knowledge of our species eminently qualifies him to 
speak and write about them with authority. He has prepared 
the monograph of our species which is here submitted and 
marked E. 

In consequence of une.xpected delay and difficulty in issuing 
the descriptions and illustrations of our ediolo and poisonous 
mushrooms in a separate publication, as was at first contemplated, 
it has been thought best to include them with other matter in the 
present report. The edition will be somewhat limited and may 
not be sufficient to supply the demand unless the issue of extra 
copies shall be authorized, but it will be better than a longer 
delay, and is apparently the best that can be done at present. 
This part of the Report is marked F. 

The specimens of fungi that were taken from the Herbarium 
and placed on exhibition at the World's Fair in Chicago last 
year have been returned. None were lost, but owing to damp- 
ness a few were injured by mold. They are j'et in the boxes in 
which they were returned, not having been removed because of 
the possibility that the Kew York State exhibits might be 
required for a permanent exhibit at home. 

Respectfully submitted. 

CHARLES H. PECK. 
Albany, July 1, 1894. 



BBPOBT OF THE 8TATB BOTANIST. 



(A.) 

ADDITIONS TO THE HERBARIUM. 

Neio to the Herbarium. 



Aster longifolius Lam. 
Stachys palustris L. 
Carex littoralis SchiL\ 
Inocybe subtomentosa Pfc. 
Cortinarius ritnosus Pk. 
GoinphidiuB ni^icans Pk. 
Hydnum scabripes Pk. 
Radulum molare Fr. 
Pyrenocha?ta collabens Pk. 
Vermiculare Hepaticre Pk. 
v. Schfenoprasi Aueri. 

Sphajropsis ulmicola E. & E. 



Diplodia subtectoides Pk. 
Septoria centauericola Brun. 
S. Divaricatie E. & E. 

Tolyposporium buUatum Schrcet. 
Ovularia decipiens Sacc. 
Cylindrosporium Padi Karst. 
Cladosporium carpophilum Thum. 
Dendryphiuni nodulosum Sacc. 
Coniotlieciuni Rubi Pk. 
Spliffirella rubina Pk. 
Diaporthe robusta Pk. 
Cucurbitaria CoinptoniaB E. & E. 



JV^ot New to the Herbarium. 



Nasturtium oflBcinale R. Br. 
Hypericum perforatum L. 
Rhus Toxicodendron L. 
Ailanthus glandulosus Desf. 
Vitis riparia Mx. 
Rosa blanda Ait. 
R. humilis Marsh. 
Pyrus arbutifolia L. 
Lonicera hirsuta Katon. 
Spinua salicifolia L. 
Siuni cicuta-'folium Ginel. 
Eupatorium perfoliatum L. 
Solidago ciosia L. 
S. Canadensis L. 

S. nemoralis Ait. 

Aster linariifolius L. 
A. Isevis L. 
A. ericoides L. 
A. multillorus Ait. 
A. ditTusus ^li<. 
A. Tradescanti L. 
A. panifulalus Iaivi. 
A. prenanthoides Mulil. 

A. puniceus L. 
Bldene connata Muld. 

B. cemua L. 
Xanthium Strumarium L. 
X. Canadcnse Mill. 
Hierncium aiirantiacuni L. 
VerbaHcuMi Bluttaria L. 



Cuscuta Gronovii Willd. 

Sonchus arvensis L . 

S. oleraceus L. 

Ipomaa purpurea Lam. 

Callitriclie verna L. 

Potamogeton Spirillus Tuckm. 

P. heterophyllus Schrad. 

Urtica gracilis Ait. 

Amarantlius retroflexus L. 

A. chlorostachys Witld. 

Polygonella articulata Meisn. 

Polygonum aviculare L. 

P. erectum L. 

P. Douglassii Greene. 

P. Hydropiper L. 

P. lapathifolium L. 

P. Muhlenbergii Wats. 

P. Virginianum L. 

P. dumetoruin L. 

Fraxinus Americana L. 

Hedeoma pulegioides Pers. 

Thymus Serpyllum L. 

Sniilax lierbacea L. 

Eleocharis aoicularis R. Br. 

Carex varia Mulil. 

C. prasina U'n/iZ. 

C. arctata Boott. 

C. aurea Nutt. 

Panicum oapillare L. 

Agrostis pereunans Tuckm, 



REPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 



Zizania aquatica L. 
Muhlenbergia sobolifera Trin. 
M. Mexicana Trin. 

M. sylvatica T. & O. 

Avena sativa L. 

Sporobolus vaginaeflorus Vasey. 
Agropyrum caninum R. & O. 
Glyceria grandis Wats. 
G. nervata Trin. 

Hordeum vulgare L. 
H. distichum L. 

Lycopodium clavatuni L. 
Tricholoma terreum Sclueff. 
Hebeloma Colvini Pk. 
Stereum sericeum Schw. 
Caeoma nitens Schw. 



Uromyces Desmodii Cke. 
Puccinia Couvolvuli {Pers). 
P. graminis Pers. 

Ustilago neglecta Niessl. 
Urocystis Waldsteinise Ph 
Septoria Lobeliis PA;. 
S. Dentariaj PA:. 

S. Scrophularife PA;. 

Cercospora clavata (Ger.). 
Plasmopara viticola (B. & C). 
Taphrina rubrobrunnea (PAc.). 
Helvella crispa Fr. 
Leotia marcida Per.t. 
L. circinans Pers. 
Oiatrypella prominena (Hotoe), 



(B.) 



CONTRIBUTORS AND THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS. 

E. J. Durand, Ithaca, N. Y. 



Blephilia ciliata Raf. 



Wm. T. Davis, New Brighton, N. Y. 



Populus heterophylla L. 
Quercus Brittoni Davis. 



I Pinus inops Ait. 



E. W. D. Holway, Decorah, Iowa. 
Ravenelia Holwayi Diet. I Puccinia Cryptanthes D. & II. 



J. Dearness, 
Calamintha acinos Benth. 
Armillaria mellea Valil. 
Phoina panicu'ata E. & D. 
Septoria Negundinis E. & E. 
Rabenliorstia Tiliacece E. & E. 
Hendersonia discosioides E. & D. 
Struiuella stagonosporioides E. cfc E. 
Aschersonia carpinicola E. & D. 
Cy lind rosporiu ni Chrysan themi E.&D. 



Londoa, Can. 

Cercospora Lespedezae E. <£• D. 
C. Symphoricarpi E. & E. 

C. racemosa E. & M. 

Botrytis affinis E. & E. 
Didymosphieria vagans E. <fc E. 
LasiospluBfia striata E. <& E. 
Teichosphseria subcalva E. & E. 
Massariovalsa caudata E. & E. 



A. P. Morgan, Preston, Ohio. 



Cladotrichum polysporuni Cd. 
Sporotrichuin juiiabilo B. & Br. 
Synthetospora electa Morg. 
Cylindrocladiuin scoparium Morg. 
Ophiocera Ohiense E. & E. 



Ceratostoma setigerum E. d- E. 
Hypoxylon Morgani E. <t E. 
H. albocinctum E. & E. 

Hypocrea tremellicola E. & E. 



Wright Rives, Washington, D. C. 
Agaricus subrufescens PA;. 



10 



BEPOKT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 



C. V. Piper, Pullman, Wash. 



jEcidium porosum Pk. 
JE. Cleinatidis DC. 

M. Hydrophylli Pk. 

M. Pentastemonis Sacc. 

Uromyces Erythronii (DC). 
U. Fabaj (Pers.)- 

U. Glycyrrhiza? (Rabh.) 

Puccinia Caricis (Sclium.). 



suaveolens (Pere.). 

Symphoricarpi Hark. 

congregata E. & H. 

Galii Pers. 

Scirpi DC. 

Balsamorhizae PA;. 

Circaeaj Pers. 

SaxifragtB Schlect. 

Troximontis Pk. 

McClatchiana D. & Hal. 

Ziziie E. & E. 

mirabillssitna Pk. 
Chrysomyxa Ledi A. & S. 
C. Bhododendri (DC.) 

Calyptospora Goeppertiana Kuhn. 
Coleosporium Solidaginis (Schw.). 
Melarapsora Tremulfe Tul. 
Dasyscypha GauUheriw E. & E. 
Rhytisma punctatuni I'r. 
R. Salicis(Pers.). 

Coccomyces coronatus Schum. 
Phyllactinia suffulta (Reb.) 
Uncinula SalicU (DC). 



P. 
P. 
P. 
P. 
P. 
P. 
P. 
P. 
P. 
P. 
P. 
P. 



Ascochyta achlyicola E. & E. 

Marsonia Veratri E. & E. 

Phyllosticta rhamnigena Sacc. 

Septoglaeum Nuttallii Hark. 

Septoria Rubi ^^^'s^ 

S. Populi Desm. 

S. saccharina E. & E. 

S. CEnanthis E. & E. 

S. alnifolia E. d- E. 

S. Megarrhiza! E. & E. 

S. cornicpla Desm. 

S. circinata E. & E. 

S. Symphoricarpi E. & E. 

S. Brunell^ E. & H. 

S. Rudbeckiaj E. & Hal. 

Jlacrosporium bybridum E. & E. 

Ramularia Philadelphi Sacc. 

Cercospora rosicola Pass. 

C, ribicola E. & E. 

C, sambucina E. & K. 

Cylindrosporium Filipendulce TTium. 

Peronoapora ribicola Schrcet. 

Physoderina Menyanthis De By. 

Pliysarum papaveraceum McB. 

Linospora BrunidliP E. <fc E. 

Sphaerella arbuticola Pk. 

Spliairotheca Humuli DC. 

MicrospliKria Alni (DC.) 

M. Syinplioricarpi Howe. 

Erysiphe Cichoreacearuni DC. 



Arthur K. Harrison, Lebanon Springs, N. Y. 



Stachys palustris L. 
Thymus Serpyllum L. 
Potamogeton Spirillus Tuckm. 



Lycopodium clavatum L. 
Geaster limbatus Fr. 
Hyuienochreta rubiginosa Lev. 



L. M. Underwood, Groencastle, Ind. 
Gyromitra brunnea Undio. 

E. C. Howe, M. D., Lansingburgh, N. Y. 



Carex deflexa Hornem. 

C. Eminonsii Deir. 

C. Pennsylvanica Lain. 



Carex sterilis Willd. 
C. crus-corvi Shutt. 
C. torta Boott. 



C. L. Shear, Alcove, N. Y. 
PyrenochfEta coUabens Pk. I Ovularia docipiens Sacc 

Diplodia uubtectoidea Pk. \ Diaporlhe robusto Pk. 



EEPOHT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 11 

(C.) 
SPECIES NOT BEFORE REPORTED. 
Carex littoralis Schio. 
Wet places near Islip, Long Island. May. 

Volvaria Peckii Atk. n. sp. 

Pileus thin, convex, glabrous, viscid, finely striate on the mar- 
gin, whitish; laniellaj rather close, thin, pale flesh color; stem 
slightly tapering upward, glabrous, solid, whitish, with a loose, 
well-developed membranous volva at the base; spores even, 
subelliptical, .0003 to .0004 in. long, .0002 to .00024 broad, 
usually containing a single large nucleus. 

Pileus about 3 in. broad ; stem 3 to 3.5 in. long, 3 to 4 lines 
thick. 

Decaying wood. Ithaca. Sept. G. F. Atkhison. 

This species differs from V. speciosa in its striate margin and 
smaller spores. It is probably very rare and but one specimen 
is known to be in existence. 

Inocybe subtomentosa «. sp. 

Gregarious or subca^spitose; ])ileus thin, dry, convex or plane, 
minutely hairy-tomentosc, brownish tawny ; lamella3 thin, close, 
adnate, slightly emarginate, at first whitish, then tinged with 
yellowish green, finallj' brownish-tawny; stem short, solid, 
slightly silky-fibrillose, colored like or a little paler than the 
pileus, often with a conspicuous white mycelium at the base; 
spores subelliptical, .0003 to .0004 in. long, .0002 to .00024 broad. 

Pileus 6 to 12 lines broad ; stem about 1 in. long, 1 line thick. 

Gravelly soil among fallen leaves Rouses Point. Sept. 

This species differs from 1. tomentosa by its darker color, larger 
spores and the entire absence of an umbo. Its prominent 
features are its small size, minutely tomentose pileus and nearly 
uniform brownish- tawny color when mature. The lamellas are 
usually whitish and minutely crenulate or beaded on the edge. 
The species appears to belong to the section Lacerw^ although 
the pileus scarcely shows any laceration, and even the tomentose 
hairiness is hardly noticeable except on close inspection. It is 
distinguished from I. fihrillona by its solid merely fibrillose stem 
and by the absence of scales on the disk of the pileus. 



12 BEPOET or THE STATE BOTANIST. 

Cortinarius rimosus n. sp. 

Pileus flesh}', firm, convex or plane, glabrous, at first pale 
grayish violaceous, then tinged with reddish-brown, the surface 
cracking into appressed scales or becoming variously rimose, 
flesh whitish; lamelku rather broad, distant, subventricose, emar- 
ginate, violaceous when young, becoming brownish ochraceous 
with age; stem equal or sliglitly thickened at the base, white 
and silky with the white veil, tinged with violaceous within; 
spores subelliptical, .0001 to .0005 in. long, .00024 to .00028 
broad, usually' containing a single large nucleus. 

Pileus 2 to 4 in . broad ; stem 1.5 to 3 in . long, 4 to 6 lines 
thick. 

Grassy ground in open places in thin woods. "Westport. 
September. 

This species belongs to the subgenus Dermncybe. It is a 
rather large and stout plant and remarkable for the tendency of 
the epidermis to crack in areas. The thin margin is often split. 
The species belongs to the same group as C. caninus and 
C. azureus, from both of which it dilTers ia its rimose pileus and 
distant lamelia\ The color of the j'oung pileus is suggestive of 
that of Triclioloma persoaatum. 

Gomphidius nigricans 7i. sj). 

Pileus convex or nearly plane, pale brownish-red, covered with 
a tough gluten which becomes black in drying, flesh firm, 
whitish; lamell;c distant, decurrent, some of them forked, white 
becoming smoky-brown, black m the dried plant ; stem subequai, 
longer than the diameter of the pileus, glutinous, solid, at first 
whitish especially at the top, soon blackish by the drying of the 
gluten, whitish within, slightly tinged Avith red toward the base; 
spores oblong-fusoid, OOOG to .001 in. long, .00u24 to .0003 broad. 

Pileus 1 to 2 in. broad; stem 1.5 to 2.5 in. long, 2 to 4 lines 
thick. 

Tender pine trees. Westport. September. 

Tliis species is easily known by the i)lackening gluten which 
smears both pileus and stem and even forms a veil b}' which the 
laraeliic in the young plant are concealed. In the dried state 
the wliolo plant is black. 



EEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 13 

Hydnum scabripes n. sp. 

Pileus fleshy, firm, convex, glabrous, pinkish-gray, the decurved 
margin extending beyond the aculei, flesh white ; aculei whitish 
or subcinereous, becoming ferruginous-brown, decurrent; stem 
stout, nearly equal, scabrous-dotted ; spores subglobose or irregu- 
lar, somewhat nodulose, colored, .0003 in. broad. 

Pileus 4 to 5 in. broad ; stem 4 to 5 in. long, about 1 in. thick. 

Under hemlock trees, Tsuya Canadensis. Elizabethtown. 
September. 

The prominent characters of this species are its peculiar color 
and its scabrous or rough-dotted stem. 

Radulum molare IV. 

Dead bark of elm, Ulmus Americana. Cooperstown Junction. 
June. 

I have seen no description of this species which gives the spore 
characters. In our specimens the spores are naviculoidelliptical, 
.0003 in. long, .00016 to .0002 broad. Sometimes the plant is 
efl'uso-reflexed, in which case the upper surface of the pileus is 
coarsely strigose or fibrous and somewhat resembles the pileus of 
3[er alius tremellos us. 

Pyrenochaeta collabens n. sp. 

Perithecia .014 to .018 in. broad, superficial, crowded or closely 
gregarious, submembranous, subglobose, often collapsing when 
old, tiio upper part sometimes falling away and leaving a cup- 
shaped base, black, the setuj few, black, mostly near tlio base of 
the perithecia; spores narrowly elliptical, nearly colorless, .0003 
to .00045 in. long, .OOUl'J to .OdOiJ broad. 

Bark and wood of apple tree. Alcove. October to January. 
C. L. Shear. 

Vermicularia Hepaticse n. sp. 

Perithecia minute, .003 to .Oiii in. broad, cpiphyllous, furnishf d 
with black diverging setie which sometimes have one or two 
septa near the base ; spores narrowly fusiform, slightly curved, 
acute at each end, .0007 to .0009 in. long, sometimes appearing 
to be spuriously septate in the middle. 

Dead spots on leaves of I/epatica acutiloia. 

Helderberg mountains. July. 

This fungus sometimes occurs in com]iany with Protomyces 
fuscus. It is so small that it is scarcely visible to the naked eye. 



14 EBPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

Vermicularia Schcenoprasi Auers. 

Dead leaves of wild leek, Allium tricoccum. 
Pierrepont Manor. June. 

Sphaeropsis ulmicola E. & E. 

Dead branches of elm, Vlmus Americana. Cooperstown 
Junction. June. 

In our specimens the perithecia are sometimes collected in 
clusters of two or three as in the genus Ilaplosporella, and they 
are erumpent and exposed, not covered by the epidermis. The 
spores are very pale, almost hyaline. But in other respects they 
agree well with the description of the typical form. 

Diplodia subtectoides 71. sp. 

Perithecia small, numerous, erumpent, arranged in a some- 
what seriate manner or in short interrupted straight or flexuous 
lines ; spores obovate or elliptical, continuous or uniseptate, .0005 
to .0006 in. long, .00025 to .0003 broad. 

Dead bark of maple, Acer saccharinum. Alcove. November. 
Shear. 

This species may be separated from its near relative, D. siihtccta, 
by its smaller spores, with simple ones often intermingled with 
those of normal form. 

Septoria centaureicola Bru?i. 

Living leaves of seedling plants of bluebottle, Ceniaurea 
Cyanua. Menands. November and December. 

In our specimens the spores are a little shorter and broader 
than the dimensions given in the description of the typical form. 
The plant is therefore designated Variety hrevispora. Spores 
.0012 to .0016 in. long, .00012 broad. 

Septoria Divaricatse E. <k E. 

Living or languishing leaves of divaricate phlox, PIdox divari- 
cuta. Pierrepont Manor. June. 

Tolyposporium bullatum {Schroet.) 

In the ovaries of barnyard grass, Panicutn crus-galli var. 
muiicum. Whitehall. September. 



EEPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 15 

In our specimens only a few of the ovaries of a panicle are 
ailected. These swell to an unusual size. They are green or 
greenish externally, and are filled with a mass of olive-brown 
spores collected in glomerules varying much in size and shape. 

Ovularia decipiens Sacc. 
Living or languishing leaves of buttercups, Iianu?iculus acria. 
Alcove. June and October. Shear. 

Cylindrosporium Padi Karst. 

Living leaves of cultivated plum, Prunus domeMca. Ilelder- 
berg mountains. September. 

Some mycologists appear to have confused Septori'a cerasina 
Peck, with this sjjecies, but the two are clearly distinct and may 
easily be separated at a glance. In S. cerasina the spores ooze 
out in a gelatinous mass or in tendrils; in this species they form 
a white llocculent mass on the surface of the matrix as do other 
species of this genus. 

Cladosporium carpophilum Tham. 

On peaches. Menands. August and September. The fungus 

forms small olive-green spots on the fruit. Sometimes these 

spots become confluent and form patches. They are often more 

numerous on one side of the peach than on the other, and the 

affected side fails to develop as rapidly as the other, giving the 

fruit a flattened or deformed appearance, and the flesh beneath 

the fungus is more tough and less succulent than the unaffected 

part. The fungus is, therefore, to bo classed among the injurious 

species. 

Dendryphium nodulosum Sacc. 

Dead stems of bleeding heart, Dicentra spectahilis. Menands. 
April. 

The fungus bears some resemblance to IlelminthogjMrium 
interseminatu7n, but is separable even by the naked eye, by 
reason of its more ferruginous color. 

Coniothecium Rubi «. s/^ 
Thinly effused, olive-green ; spores coalescing in glomerules 
varying much in size and in the number of component spores or 
cells, separate spores .00u6 to .0007 in. broad, glomerules about 
.0016 in. broad. 



16 BEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

Injured stems and branches of cultivated raspberry. Menands. 
April. 

The fungus is found in places where the epidermis has been 
broken or removed by the swaying of the plants in the wind and 
rubbing against each other. Numerous hyaline elliptical spores 
about .0UU3 in. long, .0002 broad, are intermingled with the 
larger spores of the species. 

Sphaerella rubina n. sp. 

Perithecia minute, .007 to .009 in. broad, commonly gregarious, 
sometimes forming extended patches, submembranous, obscurely 
papillate, pertuse, subglobose or depressed, at first covered by 
the epidermis, becoming superficial when the epidermis falls 
away, black ; asci cylindrical, subsessile, .003 to .0035 in. long, 
.00045 to .0005 broad ; spores uniseriate or subbiseriate, oblong, 
obtuse, uniseptate, generally constricted in the middle, hyaline, 
.0006 in. long, .00021 to .0003 broad, the upper cell often a little 
larger than the lower. 

Stems of cultivated raspberries. Menands. April and May. 

This species is injurious to the plants it attacks. The affected 
plants either die from the disease or are so weakened by it that 
they are winter-killed wholly or in part. Generally the epider- 
mis is whitened over the patches of the fungus, but sometimes 
brown spots indicate the presence and location of the fungus. 
The mycelium consists of brown septate filaments. From Bidy- 
mella applanata, which this fungus resembles in some respects, it 
is separated by the absence of paraphyses. 

Diaporthe robusta n. sj). 

Pustules numerous, erumpent, surrounded by a black circum- 
scribing line and covered by a black crust ; ostiola obscure or 
prominent and distinct; asci subfusiform, .003 to .0035 in. long, 
.0006 broad in the widest part ; spores crowded or biseriate, 
oblong-elliptical, obtuse, strongly constricted in the middle, .0005 
to .0007 in. long, .00025 to .0003 broad, each cell usually containing 
a single large nucleus. 

Bark of maple, Acer saccharinum and Acer dasycarpum. 
Gansevoort. Peck. Alcove. Shear. 

This species is allied to D. acerina, but is distinguished from it 
by the more numerous pustules, laiger asci and larger, more 
obtuse and more strongly constricted spores. 



EEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 17 

Cucurbitaria Comptoniae E. & E. 

Dead stems of sweet fern, Comptonia asplenifolia. Coopers- 
town Junction. June. 

(D.) 
REMARKS AND OBSERVATIONS. 
Hesperis matronalis L. 
This introduced plant is abundant along the Susquehanna 
river near Binghamton. W. N. Clute. 

Rosa blanda Ait. 
The fruit of this species is described as globose. On the hills 
near Elizabethtown, specimens were found in which the fruit 
•was pointed at the base and subpyriform. These were some- 
times intermingled with fruit of the normal form, even on the 
same plant. The stems of some of the plants were quite prickly 
toward the base. The species is manifestly quite variable, and 
in this case the variation is toward the western Rosa Sayi. 

Eupatorium perfoliatum. 

A form of this plant occurs near Shokan, in which the flower 
heads are purplish. 

Aster cordifolius L. 

The white-rayed form occurs occasionally about "Whitehall, 
also near Westport. 

Aster Isevis L. 

The prevailing form of this beautiful aster, about Whitehall, 
has all the leaves, except the two or three lower ones, very 
narrow and tapering from the base to the apex. They are from 
three to six lines broad and three to six inches long. 

Aster paniculatus Lam. 
A form grows about Whitehall in which the stems and 
branches are slender and weak or half reclining, and the flower 
heads are more scattered than usual. 

Aster longifolius Lam. 
The plant reported under this name in the Thirty-fourth 
liepcrt proves to be another species, but what I now take to be 
3 



18 BEPOBT OF THE STATE B0TANI8T. 

the true species was found along the Oswegatchie river above 
Cranberry lake and between Sternbergs and " The Plains." It is 
a northern species, and will probably not be found as far south 
as the Catskill mountains. 

Aster ptarmicoides T. & G. 
Rocky ledges east of Whitehall. September. 

Bidens connata Muhl. 
In the description of this species in the last edition of the 
Manual, "rays none '' is given as one of the ])romiaent characters 
of the sjjecies, and in the description given in Torrey's Flora of 
New York, it is said that the rays are always wanting. Never- 
theless plants of this species having conspicuous ray flowers 
were found about Whitehall. Also Bidens cernua without rays 
is common there and in other places farther north. 

Senecio Robbinsii Oakes. 
Rocky cliffs east of Whitehall, in company with Aster 

ptaiinicoides. 

Thymus Serpyllum L. 

Stephentown, Rensselaer county. A. K. Harrison. 

Stachys palustris Z. 

Dry gravelly hillsides. Lebanon Springs. August. Ilarrison. 

This species, according to the botany and as indicated b)' the 
name, commonl}'^ grows in wet grounds. But in the locality 
mentioned it has been found only in patches on dry ground. 
The plants are small and starved in appearance, probably the 
result of uncongenial surroundings. The form previously referred 
to this species as variety aspera is now classed as a distinct species, 
and until now the typical form, or true S. palustris, has not been 
represented in the State Ilerbariuni. 

Polygonum Douglassii Greene. 
This plant grows in thin soil covering rocks on Cobble hill near 
Elizabethtown. It was lirst found near the summit, but it occurs 
also near the base. Its branches are usually rather long, slender 
and somewhat straggling, bent or crooked. It blossoms as late 
as September. The sepals are greenish or red. The fruit is 
drooping and drops easily. 



bepoet of the state botanist. 19 

Polygonum nodosum. Fers. 
Shore of Lake Champlaia near Rouses Point. September. 

Potamogeton heterophyllus Schreb 
Both variety maximus and variety minimus are found in War- 
ner's lake, near East Berne. The latter was in fruiting condition 
in September, but the former at the same time bore no fruit, 
although it had flower spikes. 

Panicum capillare L. var. flexile Gait. 
Eocky places near "Whitehall. September. 

Muhlenbergia sobolifera Trin. 
This grass is found as far north as AVhitehall, where it grows 
in dry soil about rocky cliffs. 

Lycopodium clavatum L. 
A singular sterile form of this clubmoss was found by Mr. 
Harrison near Lebanon Springs. The usual peduncles, instead 
of terminating in fruiting spikes, are excessively prolonged, some 
of them being 12 or li inches long, and they remain wholly 
sterile, no fruit spike developing. 

Tricholoma terreum Scha'ff. var. fragrans Peck. 

Near Ticonderoga, also near Elizabethtown. September. 

If this species was not very variable, the variety here noticed 
might easily be regarded as a distinct species. It has a decided 
farinaceous odor and flavor, the pilous becomes paler with age 
and the young moist flesh, which is brownish, fades to white 
when dry. The lamella; are rather thin, close and adnate, and 
the stem, in some forms at least, is solid and white. 

Hebeloma Colvini Pk. var. velatum n. var. 
Scattered or ciespitose ; pileus convex, plane or even slightly 
depressed, brittle, obtuse or umbonate, adorned with a tomentose 
veil, which either disappears with age or persists and makes the 
pileus obscurely floccose-scaly or its margin silky or floccose ; 
lamella; rather close, subventricose, adnexed ; stem equal, brittle, 
hollow, silky-librillose and often somewhat floccose-squamose 
toward the base, sometimes annulate with a thick, soft, cottony 



20 HKPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

ring ; spores subelliptical, even, .OOO-t to .0005 inch long, .00024 
to .0003 broad. 

Pileus 1 to 2.5 inches broad ; stem 1.5 to 2.5 inches long, 2 to 
3 lines thick. 

Gravelly ground under cottonwood trees, Popuhis inoniUfera. 
Rouses Point. September. 

Three forms were found growing together. The first and 
most abundant has the mature pileus glabrous or slightly silky 
on the margin only ; the second has the grayish or reddish- gray 
pileus adorned with appressed floccose scales ; the third differs 
from the second only in the dark chestnut color of the pileus. 
The veil is grayish-white and when well developed it adheres 
partly in fragments to the margin of the pileus and parti}' as an 
annulus to the stem. The cavity of the stem is very small. A 
slight odor like that of radishes is perceptible. The species 
belongs to the section Indusiati. The variety differs from the 
type especially in its strongly developed veil. 

Poria attenuata Pk. var. subincarnata n. var 
This differs from the typical form in the paler color of the 
pores. It grows on hemlock bark and forms small patches rarely 
more than one inch in diameter. Alcove. September. Shear. 

Septoria Cucurbitacearum Sacc. 

A form of this fungus sometimes develops on the fruit of 
squashes. It produces small orbicular whitish spots on which the 
perithecia develop. The epidermis on these spots sometimes 
ruptures in a stellate manner. Menands. November. 

Septoria Dentariae Pk. var. arida ». var. 
LivingleayGS oi Dentariad{j)/ii/Ua. Pierrepont Manor. June. 
Spots definite, arid, whitish. Otherwise like the type. 

(E.) 
NEW YORK SPECIES OF CAREX. 

By E. C. Howe, M. D. 
The object of the following monograph of the species of Carex 
hitherto found in the State of New York is to aid young botan- 
ists in acquiring a knowledge of these interesting but too often 
much neglected plants. It has been too much the custom to omit 



EEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 21 

the study of them until nearly every other genus has received 
attention. That beginners in the study of botany should distrust 
their abilit}'^ to cope with these plants is not strange, since both 
teacher and text book have sometimes warned them to " beware 
of this extremely difficult genus, as none but the most experi- 
enced should approach it." This should not be so. There 
certainly are difficulties to be encountered, but they are no more 
formidable than those with which we meet in other genera, such 
as Aster, Euphorbia and Aspidium. If we except two or three 
groups containing two or three species each, and certain allied 
forms which have been considered good species in one generation 
and mere varieties in another, and which are now considered 
species by one botanist and varieties by another, if we except 
these which are less than a dozen in number, there are no serious 
difficulties in the study of the carices. 

Specimens with mature fruit are desirable and even necessary 
for the satisfactory identification of species of this genus, for the 
descriptions are based upon such specimens, the fully developed 
spikes, perigynia and scales furnishing the most distinctive and 
reliable specific characters. The perigynia, or a few of them, 
should be removed from tlie rachis for study, for in this way 
their characters are more clearly seen. Ordinarily the achenia 
or seeds are neglected, but in some instances thej^ furnish import- 
ant distinguishing characters, and will be a valuable aid to a 
beginner in deciding upon the identity of certain closely related 
species. C. lupulina and C. lupuliformis are cases of this kind. 

In the descriptions that follow, the plan is to define the char- 
acters of each species full}', clearly and minutely without reference 
to its likeness to other species. This his been done even at the 
risk of being thought unnecessarily repetitious. Measurements 
of the different parts of the plant have been freely given, and it 
is believed that in many instances they will be found a most 
satisfactory aid in the identification of the species. 

Varieties are compared with the typical form of the species. 

Carex L. 

Flowers of two kinds, one staminate, consisting of three sta- 
mens in the axil of a scale-like bract (scale), the other pistillate, 
consisting of a pistil terminating in two or three stigmas and 
forming in maturity a dry hard lenticular or triangular seed 



22 BEPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

(achenium) enclosed in ;i thin or membranous seed vessel (peri- 
gynium), vrhich is also in the axil of a scale-lik-e bract ; both kinds 
of llowers arranged in spikes which are staminate (sterile) when 
composed of staminate flowers, pistillate (fertile) when composed 
of pistillate llowers, and androgynous when composed of both 
kinils. The spikes may be either sessile or borne on a peduncle, 
and they are usually subtended by scale- like or foliaceous bracts. 
When both kinds occur on the same plant the inflorescence is 
raona?cious, on different plants, dicccious. The stems or culms 
arc triangular and solid ; leaves three-ranked, narrow, linear or 
setaceous, often rough on the margins, clasping the stem at the 
base and forming a closed sheath around it. 

Perennial herbs growing chiefly in wet, moist or swampy 
places, and most of them perfecting their fruit in the first 
half of the summer season. They may be distinguished from 
the true grasses by their triangular solid stems, their closed 
sheaths and their seed being wholly and singly enclosed in a thin 
seed vessel. 

For the sake of brevity the following characters have been 
employed : 

The sign of degrees (°) stands for " foot " or " feet." 
The sign of minutes (') stands for " inch " or " inches." 
The sign of seconds (") stands for " line " or " lines." 
The dasli between two numbers stands for " to," and with the 
numbers indicates the degree of variation in measurement. 

Synopsis of the Ciroui-s. 

A. Staminate and pistillate flowers in small globose or oblong 
androgynous spikelets placed one above the other and forming 
clusters or interrupted spikes or heads at the summit of the culm, 
or panicled heads (decompound) in 3, 4 and 5. Sometimes the 
lower spikelets in several species are branched. Andeooynk^. 

* Stigmas 2 ; achenium lenticular. 

f Spikelets staminate at the apex, pistillate below. 

Spikelets 2-5 flowered, capitate or in a short interrupted spike ; 
root-stock extennively creepimj. 1-2. 

Spikelets in a close or o]>en panicle or densely clustered in an 
interru])ted spike I'-i' long or more; jierigynia hlackish-brown or 
taioni/. 3-5. 



BEPOET OF THE STATE BOTAOTST. 23 

Spikelets contiguous above, separate below, or all contiguous, 
sometimes the lower ones compound ; perigynia lanceolate, 
without a distinct margin, divergent. G-7. 

Spikelets approximate above, separate below, or all contiguous, 
(capitate in 10) ; perigynia with a distinct margin, widely diver- 
gent or reflexedat maturity. 8-13. 

f Spikelets staminate at the base, pistillate above. 

Spikelets 3-8, 3-5 flowered, the upper ones approximate or 
subdistinct, the lowest distinct or remote (capitate in 15), or 
12-30 flowered and dis])osed in an interrupted spike li'-2^' 
long, silvery green and shining; perigynia spreading but not 
refit xed. 14-17. 

Spikelets 3->!, the upper 2 or 3 appro.ximate, separate below, 
or all contiguous (spikelet single in 18); perigynia slightly con- 
cave, widely divergent or refiexed at maturity \ plants hright green 
becoming yello^oish. 18-21. 

Spikelets 3-15 or more, aggregated or ai)pro.\imate, or the upper 
contiguous and the lower separate (clustered in ;'>1); perig^-nia 
concave, thin, mostly wide winged-margined, the tips erect or 
spreading, not refiexed. 22-31. 

t Staminate and pistillate flowers variously situated ; spikelets 
often wholly sterile or wholly fertile. 32-3-1. 

* Stigmas 3 ; achenium triangular. 

Flowers borne in a short spilce or head, staminate at the apex, 
pistillate below ; pistillate scales small, caducous, the staminate 
mostly conspicuous. 35-36. 

Pistillate scales green and leaf-like, persistent, the lowest as 
long as the spike; perigynia globular, with a long slender beak. 
37-39. 

B. Staminate and pistillate flowers disposed in separate spikes 
on the same culm or ])lant (monoecious), or on separate plants 
(dioecious), the former freciuently androgynous. — Cakex proper. 

* Stigmas 2 (rarely 3) ; achenium lenticular. 

Plant dia'cious. Sterile spike linear, 5' long or less ; fertile 
spike 3"-5" long, densely flowered ; perigynia oblong, reflexed at 
maturity. 40. 

Sterile spikes 1-4, stalked or sessile ; fertile spikes 2-5, erect or 
recurved, sessile or short stalked, densely or subdensely flowered ; 
perigynia with a short point or pointless ; scales blackish-prwple 
or reddishhroion, not atoned. 41-46. 



24 BEPOKT OF THE 8TATK BOTANIST. 

Fertile spikes 2'-4' long, pendulous on stalks l'-2' in length or 
more ; perigynia slightly turgid, scales light brown with long 
rou(j?i awns. 47-48. 

* Stigmas 3 ; achenium triangular. 

f Perigynia biconvex, without a beak. 

Sterile spike single, (rarely 2 or 3) stalked ; fertile spikes 2-4 
on filiform drnophuj peduncles, the upper approximate, the lower 
sometimes distant ; perig^'nia with a minute point or pointless ; 
scales blackish-purple or brown. 49-51. 

Spikes 2-5, the upper half or more of the terminal one fertile, 
sterile below, the others fertile, sessile or short-stalked, erect, green 
or dark purple ; perigynia smooth or pubescent. 52-54. 

t Perigynia obtusely 3-angled, not compressed, mostly con- 
tracted at each end ; obtuse or acutish at the apex. 

Sterile spike cylindrical, usually fertile at the apex ; fertile 
spikes 2-5, linear or cylindrical, densely or loosely flowered, on 
drooping or suherect partly included peduncles (sessile or short- 
peduncled and mostly erect in 55) ; bracts leafy, usually surpass- 
ing the culm; perigynia ovate-oblong or elliptical, nerved, con- 
tracted at each end, the apex entire or pointed and notched. 
55-58. 

Sterile spike single (sometimes 2 or 3 in 59), clavate, lo7ig- 
peduncled ; fertile spikes 2-4, sessile or stalked, erect, mostly dis- 
tant, or remote (the upper -2 approximate in 60); bracts shorter 
than the culm or about equaling it in 59 and 63 ; perigynia with 
a short terete beak in 61. 59-63. 

Sterile spike short-stalked or sessile; fertile spikes 2-5, cylin- 
drical or oblong, densely or subdensely flowered, the upper 1 or 2 
usually sessile at the base of the sterile spike, the others subdis- 
tant or the lowest remote, stalked and erect (all approximate in 
64) ; bracts leafy, longer than the culm; perigynia oblong, obovate, 
or ovate, nerved, without a beak. 64-67. 

t Perigynia with a distinct beak. 

Sterile spike long or short-stalked ; fertile spikes loosely 2-8 
flowered, the ujiper 1 or 2 sessile near the base of the sterile spike, 
the others distant, sometimes remote, erect, subflexuose ; peri- 
gynia densely striate-nerved, with a straight or oblique beak; 
leaves and bracts thin, bright or glaucous green. 68-09. 



tEPOKT OF THB STATE BOTANIST. 25 

Sterile spike clavate or linear, sessile or stalked ; fertile 2-5, 
usually the upper one or'^wo sessile at the base of the sterile spike, 
the others scattered, tne lowest often remote, all on short or 
long peduncles and erect, or sometimes the one or two lower 
ones spreading; densely or loosely flowered; bracts leafy, 
partly sheathing, mostly exceeding the culm ; perigynia ovate, 
obovate or suboval, nerved, with a short, abruptly bent, or long 
tapering recurved bilid beak (^the latter short and barely curved 
in 74; fruit easily detached. 70-74. 

•ft Perigynia acutely angled. 

Sterile spike clavate, short or long-i)eduncled ; fertile spikes 
3-5, mostly scattered on long filiform drooping or erect-spread- 
ing peduncles. Leaves narrow, three-veined. 75-7 G. 

Sterile spike clavate, stalked ; fertile spikes 2-5, mostly distant 
on erect., partly or wholly included sCalks, 3-S flowered ; bracts as 
long as the sheaths or obsolete. Leaves 3'-12' wide or more, 
three- veined, (narrow and one-veined in SO). 77-80. 

ft Perigynia obtusely angled. 

Sterile spike linear, f wide ; fertile spikes small, erect or 
drooping ; bracts obsolete, or leafy and equaling their sheaths ; 
perigynia minute, light or olive-brown. Leaves setaceous, or 
involute when old 81-82. 

Plant dioecious. Fertile spike cylindrical, dark purple ; peri- 
gynia ovate, densely pubescent. A mountain species. 83. 

Sterile spike clavate or linear, sessile or short-peduncled ; fertile 
spikes 1-5, the upper one or two near the cterile, the others sub- 
approximate or sometimes subdistant and the lowest remote, 
(umbellate in 81), 3-10 densely or subloosely flowered, globose 
or short oblong, mostly sessile ; perigynia subrotund, suboval, 
obovate or ova'e, densely or lightly pubescent, with an abrupt 
bilid beak; bracts mostly scalelike, sometimes short leaf-like, 
(perigynia acutely angle;! in 93.) 84-93. 

ft Perigynia slightly inflated. 

Sterile spike clavate or linear, stalked, often fertile at the 

apex ; fertile spikes 2-4, straight or flexuose, cylindrical or sub- 

clavate, densely or loosely flowered ; bracts leaf-like, the lowest 

sheathing, mostly exceeding the culm, (the upper ones setaceous 

in 98) ; perigynia three-angled, ovate or spindle-shaped, with a 

long or short tapering beak. 94-98. 

tt Perigynia moderately inflated. 
4 



26 HBFOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

Sterile spikes 1-5, stalked or sessile ; fertile spikes 2-5, cylin- 
drical or ovoid, densely flowered, approximate above and distant 
and remote below, short peduncled or sessile, erect or the lower 
sometimes long- peduncled and spreading; bracts shorter or 
longer than the culm ; pcrigynia ovoid or oblong-conical, nerved, 
densely hairy or smooth, with a short bidentate beak ; mostly 
coriaceous in texture, (granular dotted and thin in 103). 99-106. 

Sterile spikes 1-5, stalked ; fertile spikes 2-5, cylindrical, densely 
or subdensely flowered, erect on short stalks or sessile ; perigynia 
ovate lanceolate, smooth or hairy, with a long tapering deeply- 
clefl heak, the awn like teeth mosth' recurved ; perigynia not 
rejlexed. 107-109. 

Sterile spike single ; fertile spikes 2-4, cylindrical, on long 
drooping peduncles ; perigynia narrowly lanceolate, with a long 
deeply-cleft beak, the awn-like teeth spreading or recurved ; 
perig3'nia stro7ifjhj reHexed at maturity. 110-111. 

ft Pcrigynia much inflated. 

Sterile spike solitary, (very rarely 2), stalked ; fertile spikes 
2-5, cylindrical, densely flowered, the upper 2 sessile or nearly 
so, ascending, the others subdistant, short-stalked and horizon- 
tally spreading or all separate on drooping peduncles, the lowest 
sometimes remote, 2' long or more, 5'-6' wide ; perigynia ovoid, 
nerved, with a long bifid beak, horizontally spi-eading at matu- 
rity, having a comose appearance. A mountain species (114) has 
1-3 straw-colored spikes, sessile, erect or ascending, 3' wide, with 
ascending perigynia. 112-114. 

Sterile spike long and sometimes long-peduncled ; fertile spikes 
li'-2^' long, 0"-12" wide on stiff erect stalks or sessile; perigynia 
ventricose and stipitate, 6" in length or more. Spikes hop-like in 
aspect. 115-116. 

Sterile spike single (sometimes 2 in 122), stalked or sessile ; fer- 
tile spikes 1-6, globular, ovoid or oblong, compactly or loosely 
flowered, the upper two sometimes contiguous, the others sep- 
arate, or all distant or remote, sessile or pedunculate, rigidly 
erect, bright or yellowish green ; bracts with or without sheaths, 
mostly surpassing the culm ; perigynia ovoid or lanceolate from 
an ovate base, or awl-shaped, nerved, smooth, with a long taper- 
ing hiilentate, or .short notched heak, horizontally spreading or 
reflexed at maturity. 117-125. 



BEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 



27 



Spikes 1-4, rarely 5, the upper half or more of the terminal 
one fertile, sterile below, the others all fertile, cylindrical, 9''-12'' 
long, 4"-C" wide, stalked, erect; perigynia with a slender leak 
longer than the body, horizontally spreading when mature. 126. 

Sterile spikes 1-5, clavate or cylindrical, stalked, sometimes 
androgynous; fertile spikes 1-5, clustered or scattered, or the 
upper 2 approximate, the others subdistant or distant, peduncu- 
late or sessile, mostly erect or ascending (pendulous and loosely 
flowered in 133) the lowest sometimes spreading, densely flowered, 
frequently sterile at the apex, cylindrical or oblong; perigynia 
globular-ovoid or ovate-lanceolate, nerved or nerveless, mostly 
much-inflated and thin, straw-colored or tawny, ascending, widely 
divergent or reflexed, with a tapering bidentate beak, the latter 
needle shaped in 133. 127-133. 

Descriptions of Groups and Species. 

A. Staminate and pistillate flowers intermingled in small 
globular or oblong spikeltts which form clusters, heads or spikes 
or are panicled in 3, 4 and 5. 

Stigmas 2 ; achenium lenticular. 

Spikelets staminate above, pistillate below. 

Inflorescence simple, both staminate and pistillate flowers 
found in the same spike or spikelets. 

Spikelets 2-6, 2-5 flowered, in a short interrupted spike, or 
aggregated in an ovoid head ; perigynia ovate, nerved, of a thick 
coriaceous texture, with a minute entire or notched point ; bracts 
scale-like, the lowest bristle pointed ; rootstock extensively 
creeping. 

Culms slender, leafy at base; spikelets distant tenella. 

Culms rigid, naked; spikelets capitate chordorhiza. 

1 . Carex tenella Schk. 
Stems 6'-l S' high, slender, erect or spreading, rough above; leaves 
about equaling the culm, V wide or less, thin, slightly rough on the 
margins, the loosely tufted radical leaves longer, about 1' wide, 
suberect or spreading ; spike i'-l' long; spikelets 2-4, separate, 
the lowest usually with a bristle-shaped bract ^'-1' in length, 1-4 
flowered, the highest rarely G flowered ; perigynia ovate or 
elliptical, subterete, U" long, prominently finely nerved, the 



28 EKPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

apex tipped with a short entire point; scale ovate, acute or 
mucronate, thin, white, about one-half the length of the 
perigynium. 

Readily distinguished by the nnked or unprotected appearance 
of the well-rounded perigynia. 

A small form occurs which is 4'-6' high, rather rigid, with 
3-5 spikelets and the bristle shaped bract of I he lowest spikelet 
often wanting. 

Ssvamps and wet places. Not rare. June. 

2. Carex chordorhiza Ehrh. 

Stems 6-18' high, erect, smooth, naked, or the prominent 
basal sheaths terminating in narrow blades ^'-1' in length ; leaf- 
stems branching and rooting at the base, springing from the 
large creeping rootstock, 3'-5' high ; leaves variable in length, 
the lower ^'-2' long, those above, usually partly tufted, 3'-6' in 
length, erect or spreading, 1" wide or less, flat or involute, rough 
margined ; spikelets 3- 5, aggregated in an ovoid head 3'-6'' long, 
brown ; perigynia elliptical-ovate, biconvex, nerved, li' long, 
contracted into a short entire or notched beak about the length 
of the ovate, acute brown scale ; bracts scale-like and inconspicu- 
ous e.Kcept the lowest which is sometimes short setaceous. 

Easily determined by its chord like, e.xtensively creeping 
rootstock. 

Sphagnous swamps and swampy shores of lakes and streams. 
Eare. July. Herkimer, Oneida and Seneca counties, and boggy 
margins of lakes in the North woods Fame's Catalogue. 

Inflorescence branched, the spikelets panicled or densely 

clustered. 

Perigynia biconvex, blackish, shining 1 

Perigynia compressed-ovate, not shining vnlpinoidea. 

1 Perigynia ovate, stipitate teretiuscula. 

1 Perigynia obovate, sessile docom))osita. 

3. Carex teretiuscula Good. 

Stems 18-30' high, slender, erect, obtusely angled, rough near 

the spike; leaves usually shorter than the culm, I'-l^' wide, 

somewhat involute when dry, rough on the edges ; spike 

panicled, r-2' long, brown ; spikelets small, crowded on short 



REPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 29 

appressed branches, or the 2 lower sometimes distinct ; bracts 
scale-like, acuminate, the lowest bristle- pointed ; perigynia stipi- 
tate, somewhat thick and corky, ovate, faintly nerved at the 
truncate base, dark brown and shining, tapering above into a 
slender, bifid, greenish beak, nearly covered by the ovate acute 
brown scale. 

The small, short-stalked, ovate, acuminate, shining perigynia, 
as well as the short, appressed branches of the narrow panicle 
distinguish this species. Not rare in swampy fields. June. 

Var. ramosa Boott. Head longer and somewhat nodding, 
spikelets compound, sometimes on appressed branches, looser or 
more scattered. Albany county. 

4. Carex decomposita 3fuhl. 

Stems 20-36' high, flaccid, erect or spreading, smooth ; leaves 
exceeding the culm, stiff, channeled below, 2"-3' wide, rough- 
margined, filiform at the end ; spike decompound, 2-5' long, 
dark or sometimes blackish-brown when mature; spikelets 
numerous on spreading branches, the lower of which are distinct 
or sometimes separated J-'-|-' or more and V-'z' long, those above 
shorter and less distant, gradually tapering to the dense apex; 
bracts of the long branches green and filiform, the others scale- 
like and awnpointed ; perigynia sessile, thick, cork\', rounded or 
obovate, biconvex, nerved on both sides, dark-brown and shining, 
abruptly contracted into a short bifid beak ; scale thin, ovate, 
pointed or cuspidate, tawny or brownish. 

This species differs from others of similar growth in its thick, 
nearly round stem, in its stiff, long, slender-pointed leaves, and 
especially in its panicled spikelets. 

Swamps. July. Very rare or local. Yates and Seneca 
counties. Paine^s Catalogue. 

5. Carex vulpinoidea Mx. 
Stems ]^°-2i° high, firm and erect, acutely angled and rough 
above the smooth terete base ; leaves rough-margined, l^-'^" 
wide, slender pointed and often surpassing the culm ; spike i'-i' 
long, dull brown or sometimes with a tinge of green ; spikelets 
clustered on branches S'-O' long, usually densely aggregated 
above, in the lower half the clusters are mostly S'-b" apart; 



30 KEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

bracts prominent, bristle-form or the lower filiform and sometimes 
exceeding tlieculm; perigynia ovate-acuminate or ovate-lanceolate, 
flat beneath, 2-3 nerved above, contracted into a narrow bilid 
rough- margined beak, about as long as the ovate awn-pointed 
scale, widely divergent at raaturits'. 

A coarse, homely species, somewhat variable, but the main 
characters are too manifest to be confounded with any other 
species. 

Comnon in swamps, ditches and fields. June. 

Inflorescence simj)le or the lower spikelets sometimes branched; 
perigyua piano convex, stipitate, thin, spongy at the base, 
marginless. 

Spikes brown, perigynia compressed-ovate alopecoidea. 

Spikes green, perigynia teretish-lanceolate stipata. 

6. Carex stipata Muhl. 

Stems li"-3° high, erect, flaccid, the acute angles rough above 
the middle; leaves about as long as the culm, l^"-2Y wide, 
smooth, rough-margined ; spikes l'-3' long or more, light green ; 
spikelets 6-15, ovoid or oblong, contiguous above, the lower sepa- 
rate and sometimes branched, the lowest often -J'-l' in length; 
bracts bristle-form and inconspicuous or the lowest i'-l' long; 
perigynia subterete, lanceolate, prominently nerved, 2° long, 
tapering from a stalked truncate base into a slender rough mar- 
gined bifid beak twice longer than the body, widely diverging 
at maturity; scale lanceolate, thin, light brown, about one half 
the length of the perigynium. 

Very easily determined by the fruit, or by the color and bristly 
appearance of the spikes. 

Everywhere common in swampy fields. June. 

Var. crassicurta Peel: n. vat: Spikelets 7-12, aggregated in an 
ovoid or oblong head 9"-12" long, the perigynia horizontally 
spreading or somewhat deflexcd at the base, giving the spike 
an unusually bristly appearance. This well-marked variety is 
of a deeper green, and has a more rigid aspect than the type, 
whereby it may be readily recognized. 

Var. subsecuta Peck n. var. Spikes 2.V Hi' long; spikelets 
9-12, globular, or the lower short-oblong, all conspicuously dis- 
tinct, pale green, mostly smaller than the type, but otherwise 
agreeing with it. 



EEPOKT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 31 

7. Carex alopecoidea Tuckm. 

Stems 18-30' high, erect, acutely angled, flaccid, rough on the 
angles above ; leaves about the length of the culm, erect-spread- 
ing, li"-2Y wide, rough beneath and on the margins ; spike i'-H' 
long, brown ; spikelets G-10, mostly aggregated, or the lower 2 
or 3 sometimes distinct, the lowest sometimes with a few-flowered 
branch, ovoid or oblong, 2^-3" long ; bracts bristle-shaped, the 
1 or 2 lower ^'-1' in length ; perigynia compressed-ovate, stalked 
and truncate or subcordate at the base, obscurely nerved on the 
upper surface, tapering into a flat rough-margined bitid beak, 
more or less divergent at maturity ; scale ovate, acute or cuspi- 
date, brown with whitish margins above the middle, nearly 
covering the brown, or sometimes greenish, perigynium. 

Distinguished by its brown spike and compressed, stalked, 
obscurely nerved fruit. Not common. Mostly in the central 
and western part of the State ; rare in the eastern ])art. June, 
July. 

Spikelets more or less aggregated, light or deep green (brown- 
ish in 13 when mature) ; perigynia compressed, sessile, distinctly 
margined. 

Leaves 2"-4" wide 1 

Leaves less than 2" wide 2 

1 Spikelets distinct below sparganioidcs. 

1 Spikelets contiguous or aggregated cephaloidea . 

2 Spikelets densely aggregated in an ovoid head . . . cephalopbora. 

2 Spikelets contiguous iu an oblong head or approx- 
imate above, distinct below 3 

3 Perigynia orbieular-ovate Muhlenbergii. 

3 Perigynia ovate-lanceolate 4 

4 Beak of perigynia rough-margined rosea . 

4 Beak of perigynia smooth retroflexa. 

8. Carex sparganioides Muhl. 

Stems 18-36' high, erect, robust, smooth, except near the top; 
leaves numerous, light green, smooth except on the edges, 2"'-4" 
wide, shorter or longer than the culm, the longest with filiform 
extremities; spikes 2^'-6' long, strict; spikelets 5-12, the 3 or 4 
upper globose, aggregated, the others more or less oblong, i'-l' 



32 BEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

apart, the 2 or 3 lower 4'-8' in length, 2i''-3' thick, sometimes 
branched, slightly spreading on the straight or flexuose rachis; 
bracts bristle-shaped, inconspicuous ; perigynia 1^" long, broadl}'^ 
ovate, margined, nerveless, tapering or contracted into a short 
rough edged, bidentate beak, usually divergent but not reflexed 
at maturity ; scale thin, white, ovate, acute or cuspidate, about 
one-half as long as the perigynium. 

A reduced form, 18'-20' high, with closer spikelets, usually 
occurring in glades and on shaded rockv banks, is Var. minor 
Boott. This robust, handsome species is readily known by its 
ample graceful foliage and large strict spikes. 

Common in rich soil about woods and in copses. June, July. 

9. Carex cephaloidea Bern. 

Stems 2°-3° high, slender, erect or weak and somewhat spread- 
ing, flaccid, the upper half rough on the angles, smooth below ; 
leaves shorter than the culm, 2"-3" wide, thin, smooth, rough- 
margined, dark green; spikes ^'-1' in length, rarely capitate; 
spikelets 4-7, globose, contiguous, the two lower sometimes dis- 
tinct or 2" apart, 2|" long and broad, ascending ; bracts incon- 
spicuous; perigynia \\" long or more, nerveless, dark green, soft, 
ovate-lanceolate, tapering into a flat, rough-edged, bidentate 
beak, spreading at maturity ; scale thin, white, short-ovate, blunt, 
mucronate, about half as long as the perigynium; achenium 
obovate ; style slightly enlarged at base. 

Moist or swampy places, mostly in woods or copses. June, 
July. 

In the eastern part of the State this species is less common 
than the preceding one to which it has sometimes been added as 
a variety, but from which it is easily separated by its spikelets 
bjing collected in an oblong head. From 0. Muhlenbergii it is 
distinguished especially by its broader leaves. 

10. Carex cephalophora Muhl. 
Stems 10-30' high, stiff, erect, smooth or a little rough near the 
head, often branched at base as if stoloniferous; leaves rather stiff, 
the longest sometimes exceeding the culm, gradually tapering to a 
setaceous point, f-l^" wide, smooth or the margins slightly rough; 
spike capitate, ovate or short oblong, 3'-9' long, pale green ; 
spikelets 4-6, globose, densely aggregated, spreading ; bracts 



KEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 33 

setaceous, 3'-0" long, the upper mostly concealed by the crowded 
spikelets ; perigynia IJ" long, firm, sometimes faintly nerved 
near the distinct margin, round-ovate, tapering into a short, 
rough edged, bidentate beak, widely spreading at maturity ; 
scale white, thin, ovate, with a rough-awned point, a little smaller 
than the perigynium ; achenium round-ovate, the short style with 
a conic base. 

This is one of our commonest species and can not be con- 
founded with any other. It grows in open fields and in and 
about woods and copses. June. 

From forms of C. Muhlenbergii, which sometimes approach it 
in the shape and size of the head, it is easily separated by its 
smaller perigynia. 

1 1 . Carex Muhlenbergii Schk. 

Stems 15-30' high, firm, erect, triangular, rough on the angles 
near the head, smooth below ; leaves shorter than the culm, li"-2' 
wide, open. Hat, or sometimes slightly involute, smooth except on 
the margins, the ends slender and setaceous ; sjiike i'-ii' in 
length, 3" broad or more, green ; spikelets 4-9, globose, contigu- 
ous, 2"-3" long, spreading or the 3 upper erect ; bracts bristle- 
shaped, conspicuous, S'-O" long; perigynia 1^-2* long, firm, 
broadl}'^ round-ovate, strongly nerved on both sides, terminating 
in a short, rough-margined, bidentate beak, spreading but not 
retlexed ; scale ovate, pointed or rough-awned, about as long as 
the perigynium ; achenium round-ovate, the short style with a 
conical base. 

Common ; growing in a variety of soil, but especially in light 
sandy or sterile places. In some forms the head is ovate, resem- 
bling that of the preceding species. June. 

Var. enervis Boott. Differs from the type in its slender, 
spreading, sometimes reclining stems, its soft leaves 1" wide, and 
its shorter spike and fewer-flowered spikelets, its smaller, h ss firm, 
exactly ovate, nervtjless perigynia, the scale thin, mostly smooth- 
pointed or mucronate. This slender form is, perhaps, peculiar 
to south-eastern New York (Westchester county), where it 
inhabits open and slightly shaded grounds. The form which 
differs from the type only in its nerveless perigjnia (Gray's Man.) 
occurs farther north. Eensselaer county. 
5 



34 KEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

12. Carex rosea Schk 

Stems usually clustered, l°-2 high, slender, erect, smooth; 
leaves shorter or longer than the culm, ^"-1" wide, smooth, rough- 
margined ; spikes I'-lf long, green ; spikelets 4—6, globose, the 
2 or 3 upper contiguous, the others 2"-0" apart, 5-12 flowered; 
bracts bristle-shaped or filiform^ extending from an ovoid or 
deltoid base i'-2|' ; perigynia lanceolate, thin, nerveless, gradually 
tapering to a flat rough edged bidentate beak, twice longer than 
the broad blunt thin white scale; achenium ovate, apiculate. 

The base of the beak above is usually clearly defined by an 
abrupt depression of the perigynium. The fruit is stronglj^ diver- 
gent or rcllcxcd at maturity. 

Very common and variable. Woods and open places. June. 

Var. radiata Dew. Culms almost capillary, 6-12' high, the 
leaves often longer, V-1" wide, the spikelets 2—1: flowered, the 
1 or 2 lower often distant, each subtended b\' a filiform bract 
exceeding the culm ; perigynia oval-lanceolate, erect or spreading ; 
6cale broadly ovate, obtuse or acutish, sometimes mucronate. 

Var. minor Boott. This differs from the last in its larger and 
longer culms, and its erect or ascending perigynia, their scales 
ovate, acute or mucronate, or sometimes rough-cuspidate. 

A^ar. pusilla Peck, n. var. Stems 3'-8' high, stiff, smooth ; 
leaves a little longer than the culm, V wide, rough-margined ; 
spikelets 2-4, the upper 2 contiguous, the others \' apart, the 
lowest usually with a setaceous bract ^'-1' long, 3-9 flowered; 
perigynia ovate-oblong, about one-third longer than the ovate 
obtuse or acutish scale, divergent but not rtfloxed. 

Var. staminata Peck, n. var. Stems 15-20' high, slender and 
somewhat spreading ; leaves ^''- J" wide ; spikelets 1-5 flowered, 
each with the staminate portion conspicuous and persistent, the 
mature perigynia horizontally spreading or reflexed. 

13. Carex retroflexa J/u/il. 

Stems tufted, 6-18' high, firm, erect, smooth ; leaves mostly 
shorter than the culm, V-V wide, smooth, rough-margined; spikes 
i"-W or more in length, light green, becoming brown when 
mature ; spikelets 3-8, globose, 3-9 flowered, the upper con- 
tiguous, the 1 or 2 lower sometimes 2'-3'' apart, the lowest with 



BEPORT OF THE STATE BOTANI8T. 35 

a setaceous or filiform bract 3''-2i' long ; perigynia ovate-'icumi- 
nate or lanceolate, with a thick, spongy base, nerveless, tapering 
into a smooth margined bifid beak, a little longer than the ovate 
obtuse or pointed brown scale, reflexed at maturity ; achenium 
broadly ovate^ apiculate. 

Sejjarated from the last by its more rigid culms, its more aggre- 
gate spikelets, and by its smooth-beaked fruit. 

Open woods and fields. Infrequent. June. It occurs chiefly 
in the southern central and western parts of the State. It is rare 
or wanting in the northern and eastern parts. 

Spikelets pistillate above, staminate at the base. 

Leaves mostly narrow, soft and spreading, shorter than the 
culm ; spikelets 3-8, approximate or more or loss distant, 
(capitate in 15), silvery-green ; perigynia plano-convex, ovate, 
somewhat coriaceous or thickened at the base, turning silvery or 
brownish when mature ; bracts scale-like or bristleforra. 

Spikelets commonly 10-30 fl>wered or more ... canescens. 

Spikelets commonly 2-5 flowered 1 

1 Spikelets aggregated in a dense head temiiflora. 

1 Si)ikelet8 not aggregated 2 

2 Leaves less than 1" wide trisperma. 

2 Leaves more than 1 " wide Deweyana. 

14. Carex trisperma Dtio. 

Stems l°-2° high, ver}' slender, spreading, sometimes prostrate, 
smooth ; leaves shorter than the culm, about ^" wide, smooth 
except the margins, flat, soft and thin ; spikelets 2-3, the 2 upper 
J'-l' apart or all L'-2i' distant, the lower with filiform bracts 
^'-2^' long, the highest sometimes with a setaceous bract 3"-5" in 
length, 2-4 flowered ; perigynia oblong-ovate, prominently finely 
nerved on both sides, thick or coriaceous, suberect, terminating 
in a short entire beak ; scale oblong-ovate, pointed or obtusish, 
usually shorter than the perigynium, achenium elliptical, the base 
tapering. 

Swamps and wet places. Common. June, July. 

A form is sometimes found in sphagnous swamps with almost 
filiform leaves. 



36 EEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

15. Carex tenuiflora Wahl. 

Stems 0'-18' high, slender or capillary, erect or spreading, 
mostly naked, smooth ; leaves smooth, flat and involute, -J"-!" 
wide, usually shorter than the culm ; sj)iive capitate, silvery green, 
b 'Coming whitish at maturity ; spikelets 2-1-3 3-5 flowered, 
jiggregated in an ovoid head, or rarely the lowest 2"-3" distant ; 
bracts bristle-form, mostly shorter than the spike; perigynia 
ovate oblong, thick, nerved, light brown, beakless, nearly covered 
by the ovate-oblong whitish scale. 

Stems tufted and branclied at base, the shortest often firm and 
erect, the longest flexile. 

The silvery green spikelets collected in a head distinguish this 
very rare or local species. It has been reported from Oneida and 
St. Lawrence counties. June. 

16. Carex Deweyana Sc/m. 

Stems l°-2° high, slender, erect or diffuse, smooth; leaves 
numerous, smooth, slightly rough-edged, l"-li" wide, shorter 
than the culm, pale green becoming yellowish with age; spikes 
9"-2' long, fle.xuous ; spikelets 2-t, the 2 or 3 u]iper ones approxi- 
mate, the lowest distant or subdistant, 2-6 flowered, silvery- 
green ; bracts bristle-shaped or filiform, the 2 lower sometimes 
exceeding the culm ; perigynia oblong-ovate, acuminate, obscurely 
nerved, thin, 2" long, with a long, rough-margined, bidentate 
beak ; scale thin, whitish, oblong-acuminate or rough awned, as 
long as the perigynium. 

Woods and open ])laces. Common. June. 

Easily recognized by the somewhat bristly asjiect of the soft 
silvery spikelets and the somewhat drooping or flexuous character 
of the spike. 

17. Carex canescens X. 

Stems 15-30' high, erect, rough above the middle ; leaves 
glaucous, smooth, tlic margins rough, I'-l.^" wide, the extremities 
filiform, shorter tlian the culm, or the radical ones sometimes 
e.xceedingit; spikes li'-3' long; spikelets 4-8, densely 10 to 30 
flowered, ovoid or globose, the 2 or 3 upper ones approximate, 
the others 3"-12" apart, all more or less contracted at the base, 
silvery-green ; bracts scale-like, sometimes with a bristle-shajied 



EEPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 37 

prolongation, or the lowest setaceous or leaf-like; perigynia 
ovate, nerved at the base, minutely punctate, whitish, tapering 
into a short bifid or entire beak, divergent at maturity, a little 
longer than the ovate, acute or obtuse scale ; achenium elliptical. 

Swamps and low wet places. Very common. May, June. 

Eeadily determined by its silvery spikes and glaucous-green foli- 
age. Small, slender forms with fewer flowered spikelets, but 
glaucous foliage approach the following variety. A form occurs 
in Suffolk county in which the terminal spikelet is wholly stami- 
nate or bears but few perigynia. 

Var. vulgaris Bailey. Differs from the type in its more slender, 
erect, or diffuse stems ; its narrower, green, not glaucous, leaves ; 
its fewer and smaller spikelets, with fewer flowers, and in its 
green, horizontally-spreading perigynia with more pronounced 
beaks and shorter scales. 

Var. alpicola Wahl. Stems G'-lo' high, firm, erect or spreading; 
leaves green, 1" wide; spikelets 3-5, globular, G-15 flowered, the 
lowest sometimes with a filiform bract 2'-2^' long, sometimes the 
ne.xt above with a bristle-shaped bract i' or more in length ; 
perigynia green with brown spots or tawny ; otherwise as in the 
preceding. A lowland form has capillary stems 15-20' high, 
leaves i" wide or less; perigynia green slightly dashed with 
brown. 

Spikelets 3-8 (single in 18) ovoid or oblong, approximate above, 
interrupted below, or all scattered ; perigynia slightly concave, 
rough or smooth-margined, nerved or nerveless, usually strongly 
rcflexed at maturity; bracts bristle-form or rarely the lowest 
leaf-like. Plants rather rigid, green, often becoming yellowish 
with age. In all the species of this group the terminal spikelet 
appears to be stalked, the lower part being much contracted and 
clothed with the scales of the staminate flowers. 

Perigynia ovate, small 1 

Perigynia ovate or ovate-lauceolale, large 2 

1 Spikelets scattered; perigynia with a short smooth beak. . . seorsa. 
1 Spikelets contiguous or approximate, perigynia rough- 
beaked interior. 

2 Spikelet single, sometimes wholly fertile or wholly sterile, exilis. 

2 Spikelets approximate or scattered sterilia. 



38 BEPOKT OF THB STATE BOTANIST. 

18. Carex exilis -Dew. 

Stems l°-2° high, firm, erect or suberect, rough above; leaves 
iavulute, stiff, smooth, as long as the culm, or much shorter; 
spikes densely flowered, cylindrical or short oblong, contracted 
at the base by the numerous scales of the staminate flowers, 
sometimt-'S wholly staminate or wholly pistillate, ^'-1' long, light 
brown ; perigynia ovate-lanceolate, few-nerved above, spreading, 
tapering to a flat, rough-margined bidentate beak, a little longer 
than the ovate-lanceolate scale. 

Cold swamps in the northern and eastern parts of the State ; 
also on Long Island. Rare. June, July. 

This is a very distinct and easily recognized species. Some- 
times an additional spike or two may develop at the base of the 
usual one. 

19. Carex sterilis Willd. 

Stems 15-30' high, firm, erect, rough above ; leaves rough on 
the edges, longer or shorter than the culm, \"-ji' broad, some- 
times involute above ; spike i'-l^' long, strict or flexuous, 
yellowish-green or tawny ; spikelets 3-6, globose, 2 "-3" in 
length and thickness, IV-Z" apart, or the upper 2 or 3 
contiguous, the terminal contracted below and stalk-like 
from the several staminate scales, or sometimes all staminate 
or again each spikelet partly or wholly sterile ; bracts scale like 
or bristleform, the latter ^'-1' in length ; perigynia variable, 
ovate or evenly lanceolate, subcoidate, one or both surfaces 
nerved, contracted into a short or long, narrow, rough-mar- 
gined, sharply toothed beak, widely divergent at maturity; 
scale ovate, obtuse or acute, whitish or brown, shorter than the 
perigynium ; achenium ovate. 

Culms with a single sterile spike frequently occur, and more 
rarely with the lower half of the spike fertile. The perigynia 
are mostly thin, but sometimes spongy at the base, strongly 
divergent at maturity, their bristling tips occasionally bent or 
deflexed. 

Swamps and wet places. Ver}' common. ^lay, June. 

Var. excelsior BaUey. Differs from the type in its taller, more 
slender culms, mostly 2°-2^°high; its larger, greener, more 
scattered spikelets, y-i" long; its larger perigynia prominently 
nerved on both sides, and in its oblong-ovate, acute or pointed 
scale. 



KEPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 



39 



This and the following varieties constitute the species 
C. stellulata L. of Gray's Man., 5th ed. 

Common in swamps and wet meadows. 

Var. cephalantha Bailey. Resembles the last, but has stouter, 
stiffer culms, l°-2° high ; spikes U'-2' long ; spikelets 5-8, 15-30 
flowered, 3'-4:" long, aggregated or approximate, sometimes 
becoming yellowish with age; perigynia horizontally spreading 
at maturity. 

Long Island. May, June. 

Var. aaquidistans Peck n. var. Stems 12'-30' high, rough, stout, 
or rarely slender; spikes li'-2i' long; spikelets 4-6, 15-30 
flowered, globular or oblong, S"-()' apart ; perigynia horizontally 
spreading, usually the lower onesdeflexed. 

Wet places. Oneida and Essex counties. June. July. 

Var. angustata Bailey. Stems 3-12' high, very slender, wiry, 
erect, the setaceous or flat leaves less than i" wide; the 2-4 
spikelets 2"-3" apart, 2-6 flowered, the terminal erect or oblique; 
perigynia lanceolate, nerved, tajiering into a long, slender bifid 
beak much longer than the scale. Easily recognized by its 
spikelets. (C. stellulata var. angustata Carey). 

In swamps and wet meadows. Infrequent except in the north- 
ern part of the State where it is common in swamps and wet places. 
June, July. 

20. Carex interior Bailey. 

Stems 8' -20' high, erect, rough near the spike; leaves mostly 
shorter than the culm, ^"-1" wide, sometimes involute when dry; 
spikes 3"-G' in length, greenish brown; spikelets 2-4, contiguous, 
or 2''-3'' distant, the terminal one plainly staminate at the base, 
4-10 flowered, a litlle divergent at maturity ; bracts scale-like 
or bristleform ; perigynia widely spreading, small, ovate, nerved 
on the upper side, thick and spongy at the round or subcordate 
base, J"-l" long, contracted into a slender rough-margined bifid 
beak, longer than the ovate, acute or obtuse brown white- 
margined scale. 

Swam])s and wet places. Common in the central counties of 
the State. June. 

Var. capillacea Bailey. Slender, 6'-16' high, stems and 
leaves capillary ; " perigynia broader and more conspicuously 
nerved on both sides." In our specimens the two lower spike- 



40 KEPOBT OF THB STATE BOTANIST. 

lets are often 3"-V apart, the perigynia nerveless or obscurely 

nerved on the upper surface only, and widely divergent at matur- 

it}', agreeing with a form occurring in We^t Albany and Junius, 

having slightly wider leaves (^" wide or less) which cunnects 

the variety and the type. 

Low grounds along streams and shores. Long Island. May, 

June. 

21. Carex seorsa i/bjoe. 

Stems l°-2° high, slender, erect, smooth; leaves mostly a 
little shorter than the culm, 1"-H" wide, rough-margined ; spike 
l'-2i' long, erect, green ; spikelets 4-6, 6-20 flowered, globular 
or oblong, 2"-2i" long, the upper two approximate, the others 
scattered, the lowest ^'-1' distant from the next above, usually 
subtended by a bristle form bract, rarel}"^ by a leafy one 1|' long; 
the terminal spikelet pistillate at the apex, rarely wholly stami- 
nate ; perigynia small, broa^dly ovate, nerved on both sides, 
contracted into a short, smooth-margined, bifid beak, much 
longer than the green and brown white-margined subacute scale. 

Swampy woods and groves. May, June. Lansingburgh, Rens- 
selaer county. Ilowe. East Islip, Suffolk county, and near 
Rome, Oneida county. Peck. 

This species grows in tufts and is separated from C. interior 
by its taller, stouter culms, its longer spikes, more numerous and 
more scattered spikelets, and by its smooth-beaked perigynia. 

Spikelets 2-15 or more, approximate or more or less aggregated, 
ovate, obovoid, globular or clavate, sessile, erect or spreading, 
green, fulvous or silvery-green, whitish or tawny ; perigynia 
concavo-convex, ovate, obovate or lanceolate, mostly nerved, 
prominently wing-margined, with a flat mostly rough-margined 
bifid beak. 

Perigynia ovate-lanceolate, narrowly winged mirabilis. 

Perigv'iia linear-lanceolate or narrowly lanceolate . . 1 

Pericynia orbicular-ovate, broadly winged 2 

1 S])ikek't.s in a dense cluster partly concealed by long 

bracts eychnoccphala. 

1 Si>ikilets contiguous, bracts not concealing them ... 3 
3 Spikelets densely aggregated, perigynia widely 

8])reading or reflexcd cristata, 

3 Spikelets contiguous or aggregated, perigynia not 

retlcxed 4 



BEFOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 41 

4 Spikelets 8-15 obovoid, tips of perigj'nia ascending. . tribuloides. 

4 Spikelets 4-8, ovate, acute, peiigynia erect scoparia. 

2 Spikes often drooping, spikelets green or fulvous, 

perigynia loose, ascending straminea. 

2 Spikes mostly erect, spikelets with a slight yellow- 
ish tinge, bilvery 'green, whitish or fulvous 5 

5 Spikelets globose-ovate, aciuish, perigynia erect albolutescens. 

5 Spikelets whitish, silvery-green or fulvous 6 

6 Spikeletsobovoid, perigynia somewhat spreading. . fcenea. 

6 Spikelets 5"-10" long, ovoid or clavate 7 

1 Spikelets whitish, perigynia appreseed silicea. 

7 Spikelets straw-colored, perigynia ascending alata. 

22. Carex cristata >Sckw. 

Stems 2°-3° high, stout, acutely angled, rough above the 
middle, prominently leafy ; leaves shorter or longer than the 
culm, tbeir sheaths enlarged upward, 2'-3" wide, scabrous on 
the margins; spike f'-H' in length, erect or oblique, cristate; 
spikelets 7-12 or more, globular, densely aggregated, squarrose, 
the lowest with a setaceous or sometimes leafy bract I'-'i^' long; 
perigynia elliptical-lanceolate, winged, nerved, tapering from the 
middle to a rough-edged bidentate beak, recurved or spreading at 
maturity; scale lanceolate, obtusisb, brown, one-third shorter 
than the perigynium ; acheniuni oval, short-stalked. 

Fields and open woods, mostly in wet places. Common. July. 

This fine species is at once known by its squarrose globose 
spikelets and light green foliage. It is not very variable. It is 
reirarded as a variety of C. tribuloides in the Manual, but it is so 
constant and so i)eculiar in its appearance, being easily recogniz- 
able at sight, that it seems worthy of specific distinction. 

23. Carex tribuloides Wahl. 
Stems 2°-3° high, firm, rough on the acute angles above; 
leaves li"-2^' wide, their sheaths loose and wide above, rough 
beneath or mostly on the margins, usually shorter than the 
culm ; spikes I'-l^' long or more, erect, green ; spikelets 
8-15, aggregated or a little interrupted below, subglobose, 
the 1 )west with a setaceous or leafy bract 1-2^' in length ; 
perigynia narrowlj^ lanceolate, nerved, winged, 2"-2^" long, 
tapering from the middle to a long, rough-edged, bidentate 



42 BEPOBT OF THE 8TATK BOTANIST. 

beak, erect or spreading at maturity ; scale lanceolate, obtuse, 
one-half as long as the perigynium ; achenium oval, stalked. 

Low moist ground and swales in fields or thin woods. Com- 
mon. July. 

Var. reducta Bailey. More slender than the type ; spike l'-2' 
long, straight or flexuous, often nodding or recurved, somewhat 
evenly interrupted or moniliform ; spikelets 3-10, 2"-ii^" long, 
subglobose or obovate ; bracts, when present, bristle-form ; peri- 
gynia lanceolate, spreading, a little longer than the scale ; achen- 
ium short-stalked or sessile. 

Swamps or wet places in fields or the borders of woods. 
Common. July. 

The spikelets are smaller than in the typical form of the spe- 
cies, and in general appearance the plant is quite distinct and 
probably worthy of specific distinction. 

Var. Bebbii Bailey. Slender, erect ; leaves l^"-2" wide, much 
shorter than the culm, their sheaths not enlarged above; spike- 
lets 4-6, ovoid, 2"-2i" long, aggregated into an ovoid head 5"-6' 
long, greenish-brown or tawny ; bracts usually present, bristle- 
form ; perigynia lanceolate, narrowly winged, erect-spreading, a 
little longer than the acute brown scale ; achenium oval, sessile. 

Wet places. Rensselaer and Cortland counties and in the 
northern part of the State. July. 

This also might easily be regarded as a valid species. 

24. Carex scoparia Schk. 

Stems l|°-2i° high, slender, erect, rough at the top ; leaves 
shorter than the culm, \"-iV wide, rough-margined ; spike f '-1^' 
in length, straight or a little ilexuous, greenish brown or tawny ; 
spikelets 4-8, oblong ovate or elliptical, acute, the upper contigu- 
ous, the others distinct, or often aggregated into an ovoid head, 
sub-erect ; bracts usually early deciduous, leafy when present ; 
perigynia narrowly lanceolate, nerved, winged, tapering to a 
pointed bifid beak, slightly spreading at maturity ; scale lance- 
olate, acute, brown, about one-half the length of the perigynium ; 
achenium narrowly oval, long-stalked. 

Common in open fields and in ditches by roadsides. July. 

This species is very easily distinguished by its ovate acute 
brownish or tawny spikelets and appressed perigynia. 



EEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 43 

Var. minor Boott. A much reduced form, 6-10' high, the 
spikelets 2"-4:" long and darker than in the tj'po. It often grows 
in drier places. Apparently an off-shoot of this is forma elatior 
Peck, ill JUL which is taller, the spikes da/ker, and the perigynia 
more spreading, a not unusual condition in the Adirondack speci- 
mens. A noticeable feature is the filiform bract, which subtends 
the lowest spikelet. 

25. Carex albolutescens Schw. 

Stems l^°-2° high, erect or slender and recurved at the sum- 
mit; le-rves T'-l^" wide, rough-margined, mostly shorter than 
the culm ; -ipike f'-lj' in length, erect or subflexuous and droop- 
ing, light yellowish-green; spikelets 3-8, approximate, ovoid, 
obtuse or subacute, the terminal one conspicuously staminate 
and contracted at the base ; the scales acute or cuspidate ; bracts 
scale-like or bristle-shaped, that of the lowest spikelet -J'-l J' long; 
perigynia broadly ovate, nerved on both sides, thin, erect, Avith 
a slightly rough-margined bifid beak, a little longer than the 
ovate pointed or cuspidate scale; achenium oval, short-stipitate. 

The spikelets are sometimes globose and green rather than pale 
yellowish-green, but the species is well marked by its erect 
perigynia, shar|)ly pointed scales and bristle-shaped bracts. — 
(C. straminea var. foenea Torr. Gray's Man., 6th ed.) 

Suffolk county. July. 

Yar. cumulata Bailey. Stems taller and leaves shorter; spike- 
lets 5-30, aggregated, abruptly contracted at base, spreading; 
perigj'^nia obscurely nerved, appressed, otherwise as in the type. 

Suffolk county. July. 

26 Carex foenea Wdld. 
Stems 15-30' high, slender, erect or recurved-spreading, 
smooth; leaves light green, l"-lf" wide, smooth, shorter than 
the culm, spike f '-1^' in length, recurved or flexuous, silvery or 
whitish green ; spikelets 5-8, the upper 2 or 3 contiguous, the 
others more or less separate, globose or obovate, contracted at 
the base into a short or long slender stipe, the lowest sometimes 
with a colored bristle-tipped bract ^' long; perigynia broadly 
ovate, prominently nerved on both sides, broadly winged above 
the middle, finely scabrous margined, with a short bidentate 
beak, somewhat loosely spreading when mature; scale ovate, 



4i BBPOBT Ol' THK STATE BOTANIST. 

acute, whitish or tawny, about the length of the perigynium ; 
achenium ovate, apiculate. 

A fine species, easily determined by the slender lax stems, and 
silvery-white, subsquarrose spikelets. 

Woods and copses, especially ia hilly and mountainous parts of 
the State. Common. June, July. 

Var. perplexa Bailey. Larger, stouter, erect; the spiiielets 
larger, the staminate jiortion less conspicuous, approximate, or 
aggregated into an erect head, the lowest sometimes prominently 
bracteate, perigynia of a firmer texture. 

A form occurs which has stiff, subflexuous spikes, silvery-green 
spikelets, ovate above but narrowed below, and somewhat club- 
shaped; perigynia thin, spreading, about as long as the pointed 
scale. 

Dry ground. "Washington and Otsego counties. June, July. 

Var. sparsiflora Olney. Differs from the type in its more slender 
culms, the spikes mostly nodding, and in its fewer, smaller and 
fewer-flowered spikelets. 

27. Carex silicea Olney. 

Stems l°-2° high, firm, often recurved at the summit, mostly 
smooth ; leaves stiff, erect, flat or involute, rough beneath, as 
long as the culm ; spikes l^'-3' long, often flexuous ; spikelets 
4-8 or more, sej)arate, niouiliform, ovate, acute or obtuse, with a 
club-shaped base, silver^'-white or tawny, Z"-b" long, erect or 
spreading ; bracts scale-like, lanceolate, as long as the stipe-like 
base ; perigynia broadly ovate, nerved on both sides, wrinkled on 
the broad wing above, tapering into a short, smooth or ruughish 
bifid beak, about etjual to or a little surpassing the ovate, pointed 
scale ; the tips of the perigynia mostly appressed. 

Sandy soil. Suffolk count}'. Julv. 

This species is abundant near the sea shore. Forms sometimes 
occur in which the spikelets are contiguous or the upper ones 
even aggregated. Occasionally the lowest one is borne on a long 
peduncle or branch, and rarely it is compound. 

28. Carex straininea WUkl. 
Stems 15'-30' high, erect or the summit drooping, smooth ; 
leaves usually shorter than the c ilm, l"-\h" wide, smooth or 
rough-margined, yellowish green; spike I'-IJ' long, flexuous; 



EfePOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 45 

spikeiets 3-S, contiguous or 3'-i' apart, ovate or subglobose above 
the contracted staminate base, 2"-2i" wide, erect or ascend- 
ing ; bracts scale-like, pointed, or the lowest bristb shaped, rarely 
leaf -like ; perig^^nia ovate, faintly or conspicuously nerved on one 
or both sides, moderately winged, with a short or long bifid beak, 
the tips loosely spreading, a little longer than the ovate acute 
tawny scale; achenium oval or obovate, apiculate. — (C. tenera 
Deiv., Wood's CI. E., C. straminea var. tenera Baott., Gray's 
Man., 5th ed.) 

A common species in copses and open fields. June, July. 

Var. brevior Dew. Every wa}' larger than the type ; spike 
stiff and erect ; spikeiets approximate or separate, ovate or sub- 
globose above the staminate base, 3'-5° broad ; perigjnia orbicu- 
lar-ovate, broadly winged, nerved, with a conspicuously short 
bifid beak, the points loosely spreading. 

Var. festucacea Boott. Spike erect, or slightly llexuous and 
recurved ; spikeiets -t-lO, club-shaped, the sterile ]iortion usually 
exceeding the fertile, 4"-G' long, the upper 3 or -i contiguous, the 
others separate, forming an open or interrupted spike l^'-3' long, 
straw-colored or tawn}'. 

Var. Crawei Boott. Differs from the last in its more robust 
habit, its weaker and sometimes drooping spikes, its larger 
globular spikeiets, usually only the highest with a conspicuously 
contracted base, and in its broader winged, longer beaked 
perigynia. 

Saratoga county. 

Var. aperta Boott. Eesembles the type in its slender habit 
and nodding spikes, but has larger spikeiets all prominently 
tai)ering at the base, the perigynia more broadly winged, longer 
beaked, twice the length of the rusty brown scale. 

Var. invisa W. Boott. Stems l°-2° high, lax at the summit; 
leaves as long as the culm, 1" wide or less ; spike narrow, flexuous ; 
spikeiets aggregated or separate, the lowest often distant or 
remote, 2 J "-3" broad, rusty brown ; bracts filiform, 2' -5' in length. 

Sandy soil. Suffolk county. 

29. Carex alata Torr. 
Stems li°-3° high, firm, erect, smooth below ; leaves stiff, 
rough-margined, I'-li'wide, shorter than the culm; spike I'-l^' 
long or more ; spikeiets 4-10, i'-f;' in length ; ovate or obovate, 



46 EEPOKT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

acute, contiguous or separate, greenish or straw-colored, some- 
times tawny ; perigynia orbicular-ovate or obovate, cuneate or 
cordate at the base, nerved, broadly winged, with a short abrupt 
beak, longer and broader than the lanceolate, acute or rough- 
awned scale — (C. straminea Willd. var. alata Bailey.) 

Swales and wet places. SufTolk and Seneca counties. July. 

30. Carex mirabilis Dew. 

Stems 15'-36' high, erect, smooth ; leaves about equaling the 
culm, li"-2" wide, rough-edged ; spike l-^'-2' in length, erect, 
often flexuous ; spikelets 4-1 1, globose, contiguous, or the 2 or 3 
lower ones sometimes i!"-3" apart, ascending or widely spreading, 
green becoming tawny or rusty when old ; bracts scale-like, or 
the lowest usually short setaceous ; perigynia ovate-lanceolate, 
lightly nerved on both sides, narrowly winged, gradually taper- 
ing into a short or long rough-margined bifid beak, widely 
diverging when mature ; scale narrowly ovate, obtus2, much 
shorter than the perigynium ; achenium oval, apiculate and 
stipitate. 

Easily determined by its coarse, rigid aspect and squarrose 
spikelets. Common in copses and fields. June. 

This is added to C. straminea as a variety in the last edition 
of the Manual. 

3 1 . Carex sychnocephala Carey, 

Stems 8'-lG' high, erect, smooth; leaves 4'-!)' in length, I'-l-J' 
wide ; spikelets 4-5, densely aggregated in a head, G'-Q" long, 
Z'-a' wide, partly concealed by 3 leaf-like bracts S'-O' in length; 
perigynia linear-lanceolate, 2.V'-3" long, pointed at the base, 
nerved, the long slender beak sharply toothed, twice the length 
of the blunt or mucronate scale. 

Low wet meadows and moist places. Very rare. June, July. 

Collected aljout fifty years ago in Herkimer and Jefferson 
counties, but it does not appear to have been found in our State 
recently. 

Staminate flowers situated above or below the pistillate or the 
middle spikelets sometimes wholly sterile or wholly fertile. 

Spikelets oblong-lanceolate, perigynia linear-lanceolate. . bromoides. 

Spikelets 4-8, perigynia lanceolate siccata . 

Spikelets 10-15 or more, jiorigynia ovate-lanceolate Sartwellii. 



REPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 47 

32. Carex Sartwellii Dew. 

Stems 18-30' high, erect, smooth ; leaves usually shorter than 
the culm, 1"-U" wide, rough on the slender points; spike l'-2' 
long, erect, brown; spikelets 12-20, contiguous or the lower 
2" or 3" distant, ovate, widely spreading; bracts scale-like, or 
the lower ones setaceous, 3"-6" long ; perigynia ovate-lanceolate, 
nerved, gradually tapering into a short, rough-edged, bifid beak, 
a little exceeding the ovate acute brown scale, loosely spreading 
at maturity. 

Bogs and swamps. Very rare. Seneca county. July. 

The numerous spreading spikelets disposed in a rather compact 
spike distinguishes this species. It is C. disticha Hiids. in the 
fifth edition of the Manual. 

33. Carex siccata D.w. 

Stoloniferous ; stems 15-30' high, slender, erect or spreading, 
smooth ; leaves mostly shorter than the culm, about 1" wide, 
smooth; spikes |'-U' long, brown, dry and chafiFy ; spikelets 
7-10, 4"-6" long, ovate or elliptical, acute or blunt at the apex, 
mostly aggregated ; bracts scale like, the lower lanceolate acumi- 
nate, sometimes rough-awned; perigynia lanceolate, nerved, with 
a long rough bifid beak scarcely spreading at maturity ; scale 
broadly lanceolate, acute, brown, with broad white margins 
above the middle. 

A special feature of this species is the dry or overripe appear- 
ance of the spikes. 

Rich soil in open woods and copses, also on sandy plains. 
Rare in the western part of the State, but more common in the 
eastern and southern part. June, July. 

34. Carex bromoides Sriik. 
Stems l°-2° high, slender, erect or spreading, rougli above the 
middle ; leaves as long as the culm, or shorter, ^"-1" wide, rough- 
edged ; spikes J'-H' long, of a clear light brown; spikelets S-8, 
the upper three usually contiguous, the lower ones more or less 
separate, the lowest sometimes subdistant, erect, cylindrical, 
3"-9" in length; bracts scale-like, the lowest short-setaceous; 
perigynia linear-lanceolate, nerved, tapering below to a thick 
corky base, and above into a long slender rough edged bifid 



48 REPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

« 

beak, much longer than the oblong-lanceolate or ovate acute 
brown scale, erect-spreading at maturity. 

The conspicuously corky base of the perigynia distinguishes 
this species. 

Wooded swamps, wet meadows, etc. Common. May, June. 

Stigtnas 3 ; acheniiim triangular. 
Spikes staminate above, pistillate below. 
Flowers disposed in a single spike 2"-8" long. 
Bracts and scales not leaf -like. 

Perigynia oblong, erect poly trichoides. 

Perigynia awl-shaped, deflexed pauciflora. 

35. Carex poly trichoides Muhl. 

Stems 4-1.5' high, capillary, diffuse or erect, rough above ; 
leaves fiat or capillary, V wide, smooth and soft, mostly about 
the length of the culms; spike linear, 2"-5" long, subloosely 
flowered, green or brownish at maturity ; bracts scale like, ovate, 
bristle-ti[)ped; perigynia 1^" long, subtriquetrous, alternate, 
erect, slightly recurved at the apex, nerved, about twice longer 
than the obtuse or acute, whitish scale, the latter usually caducous. 

Swamps and wet places. Common. June. 

The species is easily distingui.>hed by the small green few- 
fiowered spikes and caducous scales. 

36. Carex pauciflora JJijhtf. 

Stems G'-IS' high, stiff, erect or curved, smooth below; leaves 
flat or involute, -J" wide, rough-margined, stiff and often curved, 
mostly shorter than the culm ; staminate scales 2, light brown, 
conspicuously terminating the spike; s])ike loosely 2-5 flowered; 
perigynia awl-shaped, 4" long, slightly inflated, mostly erect in 
the early stage, becoming widely divergent and strongly detiexed 
at maturity, twice the length of the lanceolate scale. 

Cold sphagnous swamps and bogs. Common in the northern 
part of the State, rare elsewhere. June, July. 

A pretty species, easily distinguished by its single spike and 
subulate at length deflexed perigynia. 

Bracts and scales leaf-like. 

Perjf^ynia 2-5, smooth Backii. 

Perigynia 4-9, rouLfh on the angles and beak Willdenovii. 

Perigynia 2-5, rougli on the beak Jamesii. 



EEPOET OF THB STATE B0TAKI8T. 49 

37. Carex Backii Boott. 

Stems i'-4' high, difiFuse ; leaves 2-4 times the length of the 
culm, li" wide, slightly rough-margined ; perigynia 2-4, globular- 
ovate, abruptly contracted into a long, smooth beak ; scales leafy, 
mostly concealing the spike ; staminate scale-t inconspicuous. 

Woods. Local. June. Found many years ago in Jefferson 

county. The name has recently been changed to C. durifolia 

Bailey. 

38. Carex Willdenovii Schk. 

Stems I'-IO' high or more, slender, erect or diffuse; leaves 
1"_1^" wide, far surpassing the culm, roughish on the margins; 
spike 2"-4" long, 4-9 flowered ; perigynia globose-ovoid, rough on 
the angles and the awl-shaped beak ; scales leaf-like below, the 
upper broadly lanceolate with a green 3-nerved center and 
scarious margins, usually exceeding the perigynia, staminate 
portion 2"-3" long. 

Moist, shady places in woods and ravines. Rare. Jefferson 
and Cavuga counties. June. Sometimes one or two additional 
spikes are borne on subradical peduncles. 

39. Carex Jamesii Schw. 

Stems 3-10' high, capillary, spreading or erect; leaves mostly 
twice the length of the culm, i'-W wide, rough on the margins ; 
spike conspicuous, loosely 2-5 flowered; perigynia globular, 
smooth, abruptly contracted into a long, rough-edged beak ; scales 
leaf like, mostly exceeding the culm; staminate portion 3''-5' 
long. 

"Woods and ravines. Very rare. Cayuga county. June. This 
is C. Steudelii Kunth. 

B. Staminate and pistillate flowers disposed in separate spikes 
on the same culm or plant (monoeecious), or on distinct culms or 
separate plants (dioecious). 

Stigmas 2, rarely 3 ; achenium lenticular. 
Plant commonly dioecious. 

40. Carex gynocrates Wormsk. 
Stems 4-6' high, erect, rough at the summit, as long as the 
capillary leaves ; sterile spike linear, 6" long or less , fertile spikes 
4"-5" in length; perigynia oblong-ovate, teretish, 1^" long^ 

7 



50 BEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

nerved, contracted into a short bifid or notched beak, longer than 
the ovate acute or pointed scale, horizontally spreading at 
maturity. 

Swamps. Eare. June, July. Genesee, Wayne, Yates and 
Herkimer counties. 

Var. substaminata Peck. (C. monosperma Macoun). This has 
a single perigynium at the base of the staminate spike. 

Plant monoecious. 

Staminate spikes 1-3, stalked, often with a few fertile flowers 
at the base or apex; pistillate spikes 1-5, stalked or sessile, 
cylindrical, densely flowered or sometimes loosely flowered 
toward the base, often staminate at the apex ; bracts leaf-like or 
liliform, the lowest usually equaling or surpassing the culm, 
sheathless ; perigynia compressed, ovate or obovate (turgid in 
47 and 48) ; scales dark purple or brown (sometimes greenish 
in 47 and 4s), giving a mottled appearance to the spikes, mostly 
shorter than the perigynia. 

Pistillate spikes erect or spreading (the lower ones 

recurved or drooping in 46), scales awnless 1 

Pistillate spikes nodding, scales rough-awned 6 

1 Perigj'nia stalked, their scales blackish-purple or brown, 2 

1 Perigynia sessile, their scales brown or purple-margined, 5 

2 Perigynia nerved or nerveless, their sca'ea blackish- 
purple rigida. 

2 Perigynia nerveless, their scales brown 3 

3 Perigj'nia obovate, spikes 2' wide aquatilis. 

3 Perigynia ovate or elliptical, sj)ikes less than 2" wide . . 4 

4 Scales sharp pointed, squarrose aperta. 

4 Scales obtuse, perigynia tortuous at the apex torta. 

5 Perigynia nerveless " stricta. 

5 Perigynia slightly nerved lenticularis. 

6 Perigynia obovate crinita. 

6 Perigynia ovate or oblong-ovate gynandra. 

41. Carex rigida Good., van Bigelovii Tuckm. 

Stems 10-15' high, erect, smooth, sometimes stoloniferous ; 
leaves shorter than, or as long as, the culm, smooth, usually 1' 
wide, erect, or the lower ones recurved-spreading, smooth; 



EEPOHT OF THB STATE BOTANIST. 51 

staminate spike linear, 3"-9" long, borne on a stalk T-IO" in 
length, light brown ; pistillate spikes 2-3, approximate, the upper 
two sometimes contiguous and sessile, or the lower two stalked, 
the lowest sometimes borne on an erect or spreading peduncle 
6"-9" long, subdensely or loosely flowered, often interrupted and 
tapering at base, j-'-l^' in length; bracts short setaceous, or the 
lowest sometimes exceeding the spike ; perigynia elliptical, 
nerved or nerveless, whitish green, mostly covered by the blackish- 
purple elliptical scale. 

It may be distinguished from the related species by its small 
size, blackish fertile spikes and by its alpine habit. 

Summits of the higher peaks of the Adirondack mountains, 
especially Mt. Whiteface and Mt. Marcy. 

In the fifth edition of Gray's ilanual, Carey describes a very 
different plant under the above name. 

42. Carex lenticularis JIx. 

Stems 10'-20' high, slender, erect or somewhat spreading, 
mostly smooth; leaves usually shorter than the culm, f-l' wide, 
rough-margined ; staminate spike cylindrical, sometimes bearing 
a few perigynia, S'-IS' long, its stalk 2"-8' in length, brown, 
erect ; pistillate spikes 3-4, 6"-lii' long, approximate or con- 
tiguous, sometimes the lowest distant, short peduncled or sessile, 
erect or ascending, densely flowered above, more or less loosely 
flowered and tapering at the base ; bracts leaf-like, usually sur- 
passing the culm; perigynia ovate, stipitate, lightly nerved, the 
upper third sometimes conspicuously empty and a little recurved, 
minutely pointed, one-third longer than the blunt, green and 
brown scale. 

"Well marked by its densely flowered, nearly aggregated, grayish 
green spikes, and by the usually empty points of the perigynia. 

Gravelly shores of lakes and streams. Adirondack mountains. 
July. 

Var. merens Howe, n. var. DilTers from the preceding in its 
longer, narrower, darker colored fertile spikes, the lowest usually 
short-pedunculate ; in its longer, wider bracts, H'-2^' longer 
than the culm ; in its elliptical perigynia, and in its longer scale 
which nearly covers the perigynium. 



/ 



53 KBPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

43. Carex aquatilis Wahl. 

Stems 2°-3° high, firm, erect, acutely triangular above, smooth ; 
leaves long, sometimes surpassing the culm, H"-2" wide, rough- 
margined, pale green or glaucous ; staminate spikes 1— i, the 
highest on a short stalk, I'-IJ' in length, the others shorter and 
sessile; usually 1 or more with a setaceous or filiform bract; 
pistillate spikes 3-5, sessile or the lowest short-pcduncled, 
approximate or subdistant, or the lowest remote, cylindrical or 
subclavate, the upper often staminate at the apex, i'-2' long, 
compactly flowered; bracts leafy, much surpassing the culm; 
perigynia broadly ovate or elliptical, nerveless, biconvex, minutely 
pointed or pointless, about the length of the narrow, obtuse, 
brown scale. 

Cold upland swamps and wet places. Not common. June, 
July. 

44. Carex aperta Booit. 

Stems 20'-30' high, erect, triangular, rough above the middle ; 
leaves about 1|^" wide, rough-margined, shorter than the culm; 
staminate spikes 1-2, cylindrical, the highest I'-H' long, 
short stalked, the other shorter and sessile, usually with a 
setaceous bract; pistillate spikes 2-4, cylindrical, the upper 
approximate and sessile, sometimes sterile at the apex, the lowest 
distant, short-peduncled, often staminate above, y"-15' long, 
densely flowered above, more loosely at the tapering base ; upper 
bract bristle-shaped, longer than the spike, the lowest leaf}', mostly 
shorter than the culm ; perigynia ovate, stipitate, nerveless, 
olive-brown, minutely dotted, with a small notched point, more 
or less spreading at maturity; scale dark brown, narrowly 
lanceolate, pointed, horizontally spreading, exceeding the 
perig3'nia. 

Rare. Essex county. July. 

This is Carex stricta var. decora I}ailei/ in the 0th edition of 
the Manual. 

45. Carex stricta Lam. 

Stems 2°-3° high, erect, acutely triangular, rough above the 
middle; basal sheaths with DbriUoso margins, the fibrils either 
reticulated or parallel; leaves 1"-!^" wide, rough margined, more 
orlessinvolute whendry, glaucous-green, mostly shorter than the 
cubn; staminate spikes 1-3, i'~li' long, the highest on a stalk 



\ 



BBPOBT OF THK STATE BOTANIST. 53 

^'-1' iu length, the others smaller and sessile, usually with a scale- 
like or short setaceous bract ; pistillate spikes '2-5, ^'-2' long, the 
upper approximate, sessile, the lower subdistant or remote, short 
peduncletl, erect or spreading, cylindrical or clavate, densely 
flowered above the middle, more loosely at the usually tapering 
base, often barren at the summit ; bracts of the upper spikes short 
setaceous, of the lower ones leafy, and mostly shorter than the 
culm; perigynia ovate or elliptical, usually with two or three 
short nerves at the base, minutely pointed, of a creamy white 
color, often dashed with dark purple or sometimes wholly blackish 
purple ; scale narrowly oblong, obtuse, reddish or dark brown, 
about the length of the perigynium, or sometimes longer. 

A common species in wet places. May, June. It almost 
always grows in tufts. It is quite variable. 

Var. strictior Caret/. Pistillate spikes 2-3, approximate, or the 
lowest subdistant, densely flowered ; perigynia ovate, bright 
green, about the length of the acute rusty -brown scale. 

Yar. xerocarpa S. II. Wriyld. Slender; pistillate spikes 2-3, 
linear, more narrow than in the type, on liliform erect spreading 
or drooping peduncles A'-l' long; perigynia lenticular; scales 
mostly green with rusty brown points. A graceful variety about 
one half smaller than the type. 

Var. angustata Bailey. Pistillate spikes cylindrical, strict, 
2'-3' long, densely flowered ; scales more acute, dark-brown or 
rust colored, often exceeding the perigynium. 

Var. curtissima Peclc n. var. Stems lS'-2-i' high, very slender, 
erect, rough, exceeding the narrow (^' wide) rough leaves; 
staminate spike with a minute one at its base, linear-clavate, 
8"-10" long, short-stalked ; pistillate spikes 2, ovoid or oblong, 
densely flowered, sterile at the a])ex, 3"-6" long, 8'-10' apart, 
sessile ; the lowest bract leaf -like, I'-U' in length, the uppermost 
setaceous; perigynia oval with a minute orifice, longer than the 
blunt brown scale. 

46. Carex torta Booit. 
Stems 15'-30' high, erect or spreading, acutely angled, mostly 
smooth; basal sheaths short, brown, fibrillose, leaves l^'-6' or 
more long, l^"-2" wide ; staminate spikes 1-2, cylindrical, 
■J'-l^' long, the terminal one short or long-stalked, the lowest 
sessile ; pistillate spikes 2-5, f '-2^' long, cylindrical, densely flow- 



54 KEPOKT OF TUB 8TATB BOTANST. 

ered, or sometimes loosely flowered toward the base, often sterile 
at the apex, approximate, or subdistant, or even remote, the 
uppermost sometimes erect, the others spreading, recurved or 
drooping, all sessile or the lowest on short, slender peduncles; 
bracts leafy or filiform, the lowest about equaling the culm, the 
others shorter or longer than their respective spikes ; perigynia 
lanceolate, thin, deep-green or olive-colored, nerveless, oblique 
and tortuous or recurved at the empty apex ; scale narrowly 
oblong obtuse or acute, a little shorter than the perigynium. 
Wet places, especially along streams. Common. June. 

47. Carex crinita Lam. 

Stems 2°-4:° high, stout, acutely angled, rough above ; sheaths 
smooth, fibrillose at the base; leaves mostly shorter than the 
culm, i'-i" wide, hispid beneath and on the margins; staminate 
spikes 1-3, |'-3' in length, the longest on filiform stalks ^'-1' long, 
more or less recurved, or even pendulous ; pistillate spikes 3-5, 
2'-4' long, cylindrical, curved, densely flowered, or loosely flow- 
ered and tapering at the base, sometimes staminate at the apex, 
approximate, all on filiform stalks i'-l^' long, recurved-spread- 
ing or pendulous ; lower bracts leafy, surpassing the culm, the 
upper short, filiform, longer or shorter than the spikes ; perigynia 
roundobovate, stipitate, a little inflated, thin, faintly nerved or 
nerveless, with a conspicuous entire point ; scale brown, oblong, 
obtuse, with a rough, green awn, twice the length of the peri- 
gynium. 

Common in swamps, ditches and wet fields. June, July. 

A tall, robust, coarse-looking species, distinguished by its long, 
recurved or pendulous bristly fertile spikes. 

Var. minor Boott. This is every way smaller ; fertile spikes 
more compactly fruited, usually shorter peduncled, the upper less 
drooping ; scales with less conspicuous awns ; plant paler and of 
finer aspect. 

48. Carex gynandra Schxe. 

Stems 2°-i° high, stout or slender, erect, rough on the angles 
and sheaths, those at the base fibrillose ; leaves shorter or longer 
than the culm, 2'-4" wide, hispid beneath and on the margins; 
staminate spikes 1-3, cylindrical, the terminal one on a filiform, 
curving peduncle 1' long, the others short-stalked or subsessile, 



BKPOET OF THE bTATE BOTANIST. 55 

each with a scale like or brislle-form bract ; fertile spikes 3-6, 
subdensely flowered, 2'-4:' long tapering at the base, usually one 
or more sterile at the apex, all short-peduncled and recurved or 
drooping, the lower subtended by foliaceous bracts longer than the 
culm, the upper bracts filiform or setaceous and shorter than the 
stem ; perigynia oblong ovate, subinflated, nerveless or obscurely 
nerved, with a distinct entire point ; scale oblong, obtuse or 
lanceolate, with a long rough awn, twice or thrice the length of 
the perigynium. 

Separated from the last, to which it is closely related, by its 
hispid sheaths, soft fertile spikes, and by its ovate or oblong- 
ovate perigynia. Both specits often grow together and in both 
the staminate spike often bears a few perigynia. 

Stigmas 3; achenium triangular. 
Staminate spike single (sometimes 2 or 3 in 4^) ; fertile spikes 
1-1, on slender drooping stalks; perigynia compressed-triangular 
with a few indistinct nerves : scales dark purple or brown. 

Perigynia oval or oblong-ovate, scale ovate, blunt or 

acute littoralis. 

Perigynia ovate, scale ovate-mucrouatc limosa. 

Perigynia orbicular-ovate or obovate, scale slender 

pointed M*gellanica. 

49. Carex littoralis Schw. 

Stem 15'-2-t' high, slender, erect, acutely angled, smooth; 
leaves much shorter than the culm, I'-lJ " wide, stiff and erect, 
smooth ; staminate spike (rarely 2 or 3) subclavate, G'-IS" long, 
short-stalked, scales brown or blackisb-purple ; pistillate spikes 
2-i, densely flowered, cylindrical, all usually staminate at the 
apex, subapproximate, the uppermost short-peduncled and sub- 
erect, the others on filiform drooping stalks 4'-9" long ; bracts 
sheathless, the upper setaceous or scale-like, the lower Isaf-like, 
shorter than the culm; perigynia compressed-oval, or oblong- 
ovate, lightly few-nerved, with a minute entire orifice, about the 
length of the obtuse or acute dark purjjlo scale. 

Wet places. Suffolk county. May. 

This species has not before been credited to our State. In the 
Manual, New Jersey is given as its northern limit. It is doubt- 



56 BEFOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

ful if it will be found north of Long Island and Staten Island. 
Our specimens were collected near Islip. 

It is C. Barrattii, Sckw. and Ton:, in the 5th edition of the 
Manual. 

50. Carex limosa Z. 

Stoloniferous ; stems l°-2° high, slender, erect, acutely- 
angled, rough above the middle; leaves |"-1' wide, thick, some- 
times involute, rough-margined, shorter than the culm; staminate 
spike solitary, linear, I'-l^' in length, usually equaling its 
peduncle ; pistillate spikes 1-3, approximate or subdistant, ob- 
long or ovoid on recurved or drooping stalks ^'-V long, 10-20 
subloosely flowered, often barren at the summit, I'-l' long, l^'-S' 
wide; bracts slender-setaceous, shorter than the culm; perigynia 
ovate or elliptical, nerved, light green, with a minute, entire 
point; scale lustrous brown, ovate, acute or obtuse, sometimes 
cuspidate, as long and wide as the perigynium. 

Cold swamps and bogs. Eare except in the central and 
northern parts of the State. July. 

It bears some resemblance to C. castanea, but that species has 
pubescent leaves and lanceolate perigynia. 

Yar. radicalis Paine. Staminate spike terminal on the naked, 
erect stout culm ; pistillate spike single, drooping, on a filiform 
radical peduncle 4-9' long. Herkimer county. Paine. 

51. Carex Magellanica Zam. 

Stems 10-20' high, slender, erect, a little rough on the angles 
above ; leaves mostlj" shorter than the culm, I'-l^" wide, erect, 
rough on the margins; staminate spike single, subclavate, i' 
long, its peduncle filiform and drooping; pistillate spikes 2-4, 1' 
in length, lu-21 subloosely fiowered, approximate, all on filiform 
drooping stalks |'-1' long; bracts leaf-like, the 2 lower usually 
surpassing the culm ; perigynia ovate or elliptical, lightly nerved, 
pale green, with a minute entire point, one-half the length of the 
lanceolate, jiointed, dark purple scale, the latter a little divergent 
at maturity 

Cold sphagnous swamps, often in company with C. limosa. 
July. 

This handsome species may be identified bj"^ its short, mostly 
pendulous mottled spikes with long-pointed, dark-purple scales. 



KEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 57 

Spikes 2-4, oblong, ovoid or cylindrical, densely flowered, 
erect, 2"-5" broad or more, ^'-1' long, the upper half or more of 
the terminal one fertile, staminate and stalk-like at the base, the 
others all fertile or nearly so; bracts leaf-like, the lowest shorter 
or longer than the culm. 

Spikes brown f usca. 

Spikes greet], perigynia pubescent virescens. 

Spikes green, perigynia smooth triceps. 

52. Carex fusca All. 

Stems 15'-30' high, erect, or sometimes curved at the summit, 
acutely angled, rough above; leaves subradical, 1' wide, shorter 
than the culm, rough-margined ; spikes 2-4, the terminal one 
staminate at the base, all approximate, or somewhat scattered, 
sesbile, erect, the upper ones with filiform or bristle-form bracts, 
the lowest short-peduncled or sometimes on a spreading stalk 
1' long and subtended by a leafy bract 1-5' long, mostly densely 
flowered, oblong-ovoid or cylindrical, 3'-12" in length or more, 
2J'-6" thick, dark-brown or mottled ; perigynia elliptical, 
prominently nerved, light green, with a minute, entire or slightly 
notched point, shorter than the lanceolate, cuspidate, dark-brown 
scale, the latter more or less divergent at maturity. (C. Buxbaumii 
Wa/d.) 

Bogs and wet places. Albany, Essex, Genesee and Seneca 
counties. June, July. 

The slender, mostly narked culms, and the short thick erect 
dark-colored or mottled spikes sufficiently distinguish this species. 

53. Carex triceps Mx. 

Stems 12-20' high, stiff, scabrous above ; leaves about ihe 
length of the culm, 1"-1^" wide, erect, more or less pubescent, the 
sheaths densely hairy, pale-green ; spikes 3-4, the terminal stami- 
nate at its base, all contiguous, sessile or nearly so, erect, ovate, 
ovoid or oblong, 3 "-8" long, 2''-3" thick, densely flowered ; bracts 
leafy or filiform, the lowest, and sometimes all, exceeding the 
culm, perigynia ovate, obtuse, nerved, smooth or hairy before 
maturity, longer than the ovate, acute, short-awned, variable 
scale. 

Drysoil in pastures copses and thin woods. Common. June. 
8 



58 BEPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

This species is easily distinguished by its three or four short 
thick erect contiguous spikes, at first palegreen but turning 
brownish when old. 

64. Carex virescens Muhl. 

Stems 12-30' high, slender, erect or sometimes spreading, 
rough near the summit; leaves pubescent, l"-li" wide, mostly 
tapering to a long filiform point, often equaling the culm ; spikes 
2-5, the highest staminate at the base, all approximate or con- 
tiguous, ovoid or oblong, 4"-12" in length, about 2" thick, com- 
pactly flowered, all on short stalks, the lowest sometimes 
spreading; bracts leafy or filiform, the lowest exceeding the 
culm ; perigynia ovate, prominently nerved, scabrous-pubescent, 
longer than, or equaling the ovate, mucronate scale. 

Similar to C. triceps in its place of growth and time of maturity. 
It is separated from it by the narrower and often longer spikes, 
and by its hairy perigynia. 

Var. costata Dew. Stems 20-30' high, spikes cylindrical, erect 
or slightly spreading ; perigynia strongly nerved or ribbed. 
Equally common with the type. 

Terminal spike pistillate at the summit, staminate below; 
fertile spikes 3-5, linear or cylindrical, on short, erect or long 
filiform peduncles, approximate, or the lowest sometimes distant, 
subdensely or loosely flowered ; perigynia oblong with a short, 
notched point, or obtuse and pointless. 

Spikes narrowly cylindrical, less than 2" wide 1 

Spikes broadly cylindrical, 2" wide 2 

1 S|iike8 loosely flowered, perigynia acute asstivalis. 

1 Spikes densely flowered, perigynia obtuse gracillima. 

2 Scale shorter than the perigynium f ormosa . 

2 Scale as long as the perigynium Davisii. 

55. Carex aestivalis M. A. Curtis. 
Stems I'-S" high, slender, erect or spreading, rough above the 
middle ; leaves mostly shorter than the culm, I'-li" wide, sparsely 
hairv, bright green, sheaths pubescent ; staminate spike fertile at 
the summit, linear or clavate ; pistillate spikes 3-i, linear, erect or 
spreading, the up|)er 2 or 3 approximate, the ujipermost some- 
times sessile at the base of the staminate, the others short-stalked, 



EEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 69 

the lowest often distant or remote on a filiform spreading 
peduncle 1-2' long, loosely flowered ; bracts leaf}'^ or filiform, the 
lowest surpassing the culm; perigynia small, ^'' wide, ovate, 
acutish at each end, nerved, entire at the apex, twice longer than 
the ovate, hyaline scale ; achenium obovate, substipitate. 

Shaded soil in woods. Rare. July. Otsego county. This 
delicate carcx is distinguished from its near relatives by its slen- 
der, loosely-Jlowered, erect or spreading spikes and its hairy 

sheaths. 

56. Car ex gracillima Sohw. 

Stems 1 8-30' high, erect, mostly smooth ; basal sheaths promi- 
nently librillose ; leaves shorter than the culm, V-J," wide, radical 
leaves tufted, 2"-3Y wide, rough, light green; staminate spike 
with or without pistillate flowers at the apex, linear; pistillate 
spikes 3-4, linear, the upper 2 or 3 approximate, the lowest dis- 
tant, all drooping on filiform peduncles, subdensely flowered, or 
loosely flowered at the base; bracts leafy or filiform, the lowest 
as long as the culm ; perigynia ovate, nerved, entire at the obtuse 
apex; scale ovate, obtuse, hyaline, one-half as long as the perigy- 
nium ; achenium oblong-obovate, apiculate. 

Woods and fields in moist or dry soil. Very common. June. 

Very rarely the lower spikes have 1 or more additional 
branches at the base. 

This species is well marked by the blackish purple, fibrillose 
basal sheaths, and the obtuse perigynia of the linear, subdensely- 
flowered, drooping spikes. 

A^ar. humulis Ballcij. A much reduced form with 2-12 
flowered spikes and smaller perigynia. 

C. gracillima X pubescens Howe. 

Stems 15-30' high, stifi', rough; leaves U"-2y' wide, roughish 
and sometimes hairy, shorter than the culm ; spikes approximate 
or the lowest distant, sessile or stalked, erect; perigynia ovoid, 
hairy with a short bidentate beak, not unlike an abortive peri- 
gyniura of G. pubescens. (Botanical Gazette, Feb., 18bl, p. 1(39.) 
(C. Sullivantii Bi>otL) 

In a swampy meadow. Yonkers, "Westchester county. 1878. 

A similar hybrid, but one more closely resembling 0. gracil- 
lima, occurs in Albany and Greene counties, where it was 
detected by Mi'. C . L. Shear. 



60 BEPOKT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

The terminal spike bears perigynia at its apex; the perigynia 
are smooth and the scale is acute or barely mucronate, not awned. 
In these respects it approaches C. gracillima more closely than it 
docs C. pubescens. This has been somewhat doubtfully con- 
sidered by Professor Bailey to be a hybrid between C. gracil- 
lima X itstivalis, but it is only necessary to suppose that in this 
case the prepotency lies with C, gracillima and in the other with 
G. pubescens to make both forms descendants of the same parent 
plants, as they probably are. 

57. Carex formosa Dew. 

Stems 15-30' high, slender, erect, smooth; leaves short, the 
uppermost sometimes equaling the culm, \^"-1^" wide, slightly 
hispidly pubescent beneath, yellowish green ; spikes 2-5, the ter- 
minal with 6-8 perigynia at the apex, staminate below, long 
peduncled, the others subdistant or apjiroximate, secund, all on 
filiform recurved or drooping peduncles, subdensely flowered, 
with 2 or 3 empty scales at the base; bracts leafy or filiform, 
about equaling the culm ; perigynia ovate, turgid, nerved, thin, 
tapering to a short entire or minutely-notched beak ; scale ovate, 
obtuse, cuspidate, white or brownish, one-half as long as the 
perigynium. 

The spikes are ^'-1' long, and about 2" wide ; the perigynium 
3" long and 1" wide, giving to the former a thick and heavy 
appearance, by which the species may be distinguished. 

Woods and wet places. Eare. June. Columbia, Oneida and 
Yates counties. 

68. Carex Davisii Schw. & Torr. 
Stems l-J°-8° high, erect, rather stout, smooth or with a soft 
pubescence; leaves mostly equaling or exceeding the culm, 
li"-i" wide or more, clothed with a soft pubescence beneath, 
hispid on the veins and margins; spikes ;j-5, the terminal, pistil- 
late above, erect, the 2 upper fertile ones contiguous at the base 
of the sta'uiaato portion, subsossile or sliort-peduncled, the low- 
est distant or remote on a short, erect, or rarely long, spreading 
stulk i'-l^' long, densely flowered, S'-i' wide, light green, erect 
or somewhat spreading ; bracts leaf-like, equaling or exceeding 
the culm; perigynia ovate, conspicuously nerved, turgid, taper- 
ing into a short bifid beak, about the length of the ovate obtuse 
awned scale. 



REPORT OF THE STATE BOTANrST. 61 

Wet meadows Not common. June. Oneida co-mty. 

The drooping of the lower spikes depends on the splitting of 
the long sheaths which, for a time at least, include their short 
peduncles. This species is conspicuously marked by its short, 
thick, mostly erect spikes and large turgid perigynia. 

Staminate spike club-shaped, long-ped uncled; fertile spikes 
2-4, subapproximate or mostly remote, erect ; bracts shorter than 
the culm; perigynia oblong, ovate or obovate, b3akless except 
in 60. 

Upper spikes appproximate or nearly so 1 

Upper spikes not approximate 2 

1 Perigynia oblong, lightly nerved or nerveless lividn. 

1 Perigynia with impressed nerves conoidea. 

2 Sheaths dilated vaginata. 

2 Sheaths not dilated 3 

3 Leaves and bracts l" wide, shorter than the culm tetaniea. 

3 Leaves and bracts I'-l^^' wide, nearly equaling the culm . Crawei. 

59. Carex Crawei Dew. 
Stoloniferous; stems 6-12' high, slender, erect or diffuse, 

smooth ; leaves short, sometimes equaling the culm, 1"-!^" wide, 
smooth, rough-margined ; staminate sj) ke clavate ^'-1' in length 
on a stiff, erect stalk l'-2' long, sometimes with 1 or more short 
additional ones at or near its base, and sometimes with a few fer- 
tile (lowers at the apex; pistillate spikes 2-4, cylindrical, densely 
llowered, 6"-!)" long, distant or remote, sometimes the lowest sub- 
radical on a short exserted stalk ; bracts leafy, sheathing, about 
equaling the culm; perigynia ovate, lightly nerved, slightly 
turgid, roughish, tapering to a small entire point, longer than 
the ovate, cuspidate scale. 

Limestone soil. Rare. June, July. Genesee, Herkimer and 
Jefferson counties. 

Distinguished by its low stature, creeping root-stock, and 
densely flowered distant dull brown nearly sessile spikes. 

60. Carex livida WiM. 

Stems 6-18' high, slender, erect, smooth ; leaves mostly shorter 
than the culm, ^"-1" wide, flat or involute, stiff, rough margined; 
staminate spike cj'^lindrical, acute, ^'-1' in length, on a stiff stalk 
■^'-1' long ; pistillate spikes 1-2, contiguous, rarely a third sub- 



62 EEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

radical one, short oblong or cylindrical, ^'-J' long, 15-20 loosely 
flowered, sessile ; bracts small, leafy or setaceous, scarcely' equal- 
ing the culm; perigynia ovoid-oblong, lightly nerved, pale green, 
tapering to a small, straight, entire point, a little exceeding the 
ovate, light brown scale. 

Cold swamps. Very rare. June, July. Oneida and Herkimer 

counties. 

61. Carex vaginata Taicsch. 

Stoloniferous ; stems 10-24' high, mostlj' weak and diffuse, 
smooth ; leaves subradical, half the length of the culm, iV-i," wide, 
smooth, slightly rough on the margin, radical leaves tufted, nearly 
as long as the culm, 2"-3" wide ; staminate spike clavate, or ovoid- 
oblong and acute, erect or oblique, i'-f long, its stalk f'-li' in 
length, or more ; ))istillate spikes 2 or 3, remote, 4—10 loosely or 
12-15 compactly flowered, ^'-^' or more long, on exserted, filiform 
erect or drooping peduncles ti'-H' ii length, the latter partly 
included in the conspicuously dilated sheaths of the short leafy 
bracts ; perigynia oblong-ovate, nerved, tapering to a short round 
oblique-notched beak, longer than the ovate acute or obtusish 
thin brown scale. 

Swampy places. Very rare or local. June. Genesee county. 

This rare species is conspicuously marked by its dilated sheaths 
and round-beaked perigynia. It stands under the name 
C. Saltuensis Bailey in the sixth edition of the Manual. 

62. Carex tetanica Schk. 
Stoloniferous ; stems l°-2° high, slender, erect, rough at the 
summit ; leaves mostly shorter than the culm ; ^"-1" wide, stiff, 
flat or involute above, roughish on the margins, bright green or 
glaucous; staminate spike clavate or cylindrical 4^-1' in length, 
on a slender, mostly erect peduncle 2'-4' long, light brown; pis- 
tillate spikes 1-3, remote, loosely flowered, cylindrical, usually 
with a tapering base, 4'-l' in length ; the uppermost short- 
stalked or nearly sessile, the lower on slender, erect or spread- 
ing peduncles J^'-3J'long; bracts foliaceous, much shorter than 
the culm ; perigynia triangular-obovoid, prominently nerved, 
abruptly contracted into a short curved entire point, longer 
than the ovate obtuse, sometimes mucronate or cuspidate thin 
white and brown scale; achenium short-obovate, tricostate, with 
a short, bent style. 



KEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 63 

"Wet swampy places. Eare. June. Cayuga, Seneca and 
Jefferson counties. 

This is distinguished from its congeners by the long peduntled 
spikes and obovoid, nerved perigynia. 

Var. Woodii B dley is a lax form growing in deep shade and 
having longer spreading leaves and shorter fewer flowered 
fertile spikes. 

63. Carex conoidea Schk. 

Stems 12-20' high, stiff, rough above ; leaves mostly shorter 
than the culm, 1" wide, rough margined ; staminate spike ^'-1' 
long, clavate, long or short-peduncled, erect, light brown ; pistil- 
late spikes 1-3, G"-0" long, subdensely flowered, the upper 2 
appro.ximate or distant, short stalked or sessile, the lowest 
remote on a spreading or erect peduncle ^'-1^' long ; bracts 
foliaceous, usually shorter than the culm ; perigynia oblong-conic 
with impressed nerves, and a short straight or curved entire 
point, about the length of the ovate rough-awned scale, the 
latter more or less divergent at maturity ; achenium obovate, 
apiculate. 

Moist meadows and grassy places. Common. June. 

This is easily recognized by the shape and nerving of the 
perigynia. 

Fertile spikes 2-C, erect on exserted stalks or the uppermost 
sessile, approximate or the lower distant; bracts leaf-like, 
exceeding the culm ; perigynia oblong or pyriform, obtuse, 
nerved (obscurely in 6i and 65). 

Perigj'nia obscurely nerved 1 

Perigynia distinctly nerved 2 

1 Perigynia oblong pallescens. 

1 Perigynia pyriform aurea. 

2 Perigynia oblong-ovate, \\" long glaucodea. 

3 Perigynia oblong, 2" long grisea. 

64. Carex pallescens L. 

Stems 6-24' high, slender, mostly erect, hispid on the angles 
near the spikes, smooth below; leaves mostly shorter than the 
culm, l"-\\" wide, rough-margined, slightly pubescent on the 
sheaths ; staminate spike often clavate, 4''-8" long, short-stalked ; 
pistillate spikes 2-4, oblong, densely flowered, ^"-& long, con- 



64 BEPOET OF THE 8TATB BOTANIST. 

tiguous, the uppermost sessile, the others on short peduncles, 
erect or spreatling ; bracts leafy, sheathless, often transversely 
wrinkled at the base, exceeding the culm; perigynia oblong, 
faintly nerved, pointless, as long as the pointed scale. 

Fields and grassy places. Common. June. 

The species is well marked by the somewhat clustered, short- 
peduncled, fertile spikes, and the oblong obscurely-nerved point- 
less perigynia. 

65. Carex aurea Nutt. 

Stems 3-18' high, slender, erect or subprocumbent, smooth 
below, roughish above ; leaves mostly shorter than the culm (or 
exceeding it in pigmy forms) i"-l" wide, smooth, slightly rough 
on the margins, bright green ; staminate spike clavate, 3"-S" long, 
sessile and inconspicuous, or stalked and manifest ; pistillate 
spikes 2-4, cylindrical, 3"-9" long, the upper 2 contiguous, sessile 
or subsessile, erect or slightly spreading, the lower subdistant, on 
slender peduncles i'-l" in length, suberect or spreading, some- 
times a subradical spike is present on a long, suberect peduncle ; 
bracts leaf-like, sheathing, exceeding the culm ; perigynia ovoid 
or pyriform, nerved, thick, yellowish or golden brown at matur- 
ity, obtuse at the apex, longer than the ovate, acute ormucronate 
scale ; stigmas 2 or 3, achenium lenticular, apiculate. 

"Wet springy ground and banks of streams. June, July. 

This interesting and infrequent species may be distinguished 
by its small pyriform yellowish-brown perigynia and lenticular 
achenia. 

66. Carex glaucodea Tuckm. 

Stems 6-20' high, erect or spreading, smooth ; leaves mostly 
subradical, usually shorter than the culm, \^"-V wide, rough at 
the extremities, smooth on the lower half, glaucous or pale green ; 
staminate spike subclavate, B'-O" long, sessile, sometimes incon- 
spicuous; pistillate spikes 2-4, subdensely flowered, perfectly 
cylindrical, *'-!' long, the upper 2 usually approximate, the lower 
on ere3t, exserted stalks ^'-l' in length, or the lowest remote on 
a filiform spreading or recurved peduncle 2-5' long, glaucous, 
turning to a dull brown ; bracts like the leaves, sheathing, all but 
the lowest exceeding the culm ; perigynia oblong ovate, numer- 
ously finely nerved, of a thick or leathery texture, tapering to 
an acutish, entire or notched apex, about twice longer than the 



EEPOKT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 65 

ovate, acute or cuspidate scale; achenium obovate; style even 
(not tumid), curved or abruptly bent at the base. 

Thin woods and moist places. Rare. June, July. Cayuga 
and Dutchess counties. 

This species may be separated from C. grisea, which it resem- 
bles, by its shorter stems and leaves, its more cylindrical spikes, 
and shorter perigynia, and by its curved styles. 

67. Carex grisea Wahl. 
Stems 1°-2|° high, firm, usually somewhat robust, smooth, or 
sometimes roughish at the summit ; leaves slightly hispid on the 
upper surface, smooth beneath, l|"-3" wide, the highest exceeding 
the culm, pale green ; staminate spike 3 "-9" long, sessile ; pistillate 
spikes 2-4, oblong, thick, loosely or subloosely flowered, ^'-V in 
length, the upper 2 usually contiguous, the upi>ermost sessile, the 
others more or less distant on stiff, erect peduncles i'--l' lono- 
light green or fading to tawny; bracts leafy, sheathing, erect- 
spreading, or the upper divergent, much longer than the culm ; 
perigynia oblong, obtuse, turgid, finely nerved, about the length 
of the ovate, cuspidate or rough-awned scale ; achenium obovate, 
sometimes apiculate, with a straight, tumid or bulbous-thickened 
style. 

Moist ground and grassy places. Common. June. 

This species frequently forms tufts. Its straight, tumid or 
bulbous-thickened style articulates at or slightly above its base. 
A slender narrow-leaved form occurs whijh closely approaches 
and which perhaps is referable to Var. angustifolia Boott. 

Leaves and bracts alike, sheathing, conspicuously thin, the 
latter exceeding the culm ; perigynia obovoid or ovate-triquetrous, 
finely striate or nerved, distinctly beaked, shorter than the tri- 
nerved, pointed or rough-awned scale. 

Spikes 3-8 flowered, sheaths smooth oligocarpa. 

Spikes 3-10 flowered, sheaths pubescent Hitchcockiana. 

68. Carex oligocarpa Schk. 
Stems 6'-] 8' high, slender, erect or somewhat diffuse, rough on 
fae upper portion ; leaves short, or sometimes equaling the culm, 
about 1" wide, slightly rough on the veins beneath and margins; 
9 



66 EEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

stamiaate spike linear or subclavate, subsessile or on a stalk ^-1' 
in length ; pistillate spikes 2-4, the upper 1 or 2 contiguous or 
distinct, shortpeduncalate or sessile, the others distant or remote 
on stalks ^'-l^' long, all erect, loosely 3-8 flowered on a flexuous 
rachis; bracts with smooth sheaths, thin, longer than the culm; 
perigynia obovoid-triangular, with a distinct straight or slightly 
oblique beak, shorter than the rough pointed or awned scale • 
achenium obovate, apiculate ; style tumid above the minute 
persistent base. 

Woods and shady places. Rare in the eastern part of the 
State, occasional elsewhere. June. 

This species is distinguished by its thin, narrow foliage, few 
and loosely flowered spikes, nearly straight-beaked striate peri- 
gynia, and tri-nerved awned scale. 

69. Carex Hitchcockiana Dew. 

Stems l°-'2° high or more, erect or spreading, rough, or smooth 
below ; leaves short, or the upper equaling the culm, I'-IV 
wide, thin, more or less hispidly pubescent; staminate spike linear 
or subclavate, i'-l' in length, on a slender, erect peduncle i'-lA' 
long ; pistillate spikes 2-4-, loosely 3-10 flowered on a flexuous 
rachis, the upper two approximate, mostly on included stalks or 
the highest sessile, the lower distant or remote on erect, slightly- 
exserted peduncles ; bracts and sheaths roughly pubescent, the 
former mostly surpassing the culm ; perigynia oval or obovate, 
obtusely triangular, striate-nerved, 2" long, with an abrupt or 
tapering oblique recurved truncate beak, a little shorter than the 
broad tri nerved rough-awned white scale; achenium and style 
like the last. 

Woods. Rare in the eastern part of the State. June, July 

This may be distinguished from the preceding species by its 
pubescent sheaths, rougher foliage, shorter-stemmed fertile 
spikes, and by its perigynia, which have a conspicuously oblique 
or recurved beak. 

Var. tri flora Peck n. var. More slender, with the fertile 
spikes 1-3 flowered. 

Collected on Mt. Defiance. June. 

Pistfllate spikes 2-6, more or less flexuous, the upper 2 con- 
tiguous or approximate, sessile or nearly so, the rest scattered 



BKPOET OF THE BTATB BOTANIST. 67 

and stalked, or sometimes all subdistant ; bracts mostl}' exceed- 
ing the culm; perigynia obtusely angled, prominently nerved 
and having an abruptly bent or recurved rarely straight beak. 

Lower or radical leaves 8" broad or more albursina. 

Lower leaves less than 8" broad 1 

1 Pistillate spikes densely flowered, perigynia ovate. .. . granulans. 

1 Pistillate spikes subdensely or loosely flowered ....... 2 

2 Upper spikes usually contiguous, the sterile subsessile, blanda. 

2 Upper spikes rarely contiguous, the sterile stalked . . 3 

3 Spikes subloosely flowered, brpcts shorter than the culm, styloflexa. 

3 Spikes loosely flowered, bracts longer than the culm. . laxiflora. 

70 . Carex laxiflora Lam. 

Stems l°-2° high, erect or spreading, triangular, smooth ; 
leaves mostly subradical, short, U"- 4" wide, smooth e.xcept on 
the margins, the radical often wider and half as long as the culm ; 
staminate spike linear or clavate, ^'-1' long, conspicuously stalked 
or subsessile ; pistillate spikes 2-4, linear, loosely flowered on a 
flexuous rachis ^'--1' in length, the uppermost (rarely 2) sessile 
or short-stalked at the base of the sterile, the others subdistant 
or the lowest remote, all on erect, exserted peduncles J'-H' lono-; 
bracts leafy, short-sheathed, shorter or slightly longer than the 
culm; perigynia obovate, strongly nerved, with a straight or 
slightly recurved beak, exceeding the ovate, obtuse, mostly mucro- 
nate white scale. 

A subradical spike on a slender, flattened peduncle 2'~2^' in 
length is not rare. 

Woods, ravines and open places. Common. June. 

Yar. varians Bailey has stouter culms and broader leaves than 
the type, the fertile spikes a little closer flowered, the upper 2 
mostly contiguous to the sterile, the highest sessile, bracts often 
longer than the culm, the perigynia less strongly nerved. 

Var. patulifolia Carey differs from the type chiefly in its 
broader root leaves, 5"- 7" wide, and in the usually longer bracts, 
equaling or surpassing the culm. 

Very common iu damp shades and ravines. Ma}', June. 

7 1 . Carex styloflexa Buckley. 
Stems 12'-18' high, slender, erect or diffuse, smooth, leaves 
2' -i' loiig, 1" wide, the radical longer and 1"- 1^" wide ; staminate 



68 BEPOBT OF THB STATE BOTANIST. 

spike about i' long on a slender, smooth stalk ^'--|' in 
length ; scales oblong, blunt, light brown ; pistillate spikes 
2-4:, i'-4' in length, 5-10 subloosely flowered, scattered, all 
but the highest stalked, the lowest usually on a filiform 
recurved peduncle; bracts mostly shorter than the culm; 
perigynia obovate, lightly nerved, with a straight or recurved 
beak, longer than the ovate acute brown scale. 

Grassv places. Eare. June. Albany and Cattaraugus counties. 

This has been regarded by some as a variety of the preceding 
species, but it is easily separated by its short spikes. 

72. Carex blanda Dew. 

Stems 8'-20' high, erect, triquetrous, rough on the angles; 
leaves l^'-S" wide, rough above the middle, equaling or shorter 
than the culm ; staminate spike clavate, i'-Q" long, sessile or on 
a stalk -^'-1' long ; pistillate spikes 3-4, S°-d" long, subdensely 
flowered, the upper 2 usually contiguous to the staminate spike 
and sessile or nearly so, the lower pedunculate, erect, or the 
lowest remote on a setaceous peduncle 2'-3' long, suberect or 
recurved; bracts leafy, mostly exceeding the culm; perigynia 
obovate, with a long or short tapering base, prominently nerved, 
terminating in a short recurved or abruptly bent beak, longer 
than the ovate, acute or mucronate white scale, more or less 
diverging at maturity. 

Woods and fields. Very common June. 

Rarely among the large forms 1 or 2 of the lower spikes are 
compressed ; occasionally there is but 1 spike, stalked or sessile 
and contiguous to the staminate, in which case the latter is 
usually long-peduncled, exceeding the bracts. This species has 
been considered by some as a variety of C. laxiflora to which it 
is joined in the Manual, but its short dense pistillate spikes and 
commonly short sessile staminate spike give it such a distinct 
aspect that it may be distinguished at a glance. 

73. Carex albursina iSheld. 

Stems 12'-20' high, erect or spreading, flaccid below, acutely 

triangular and somewhat winged above, smooth; stem leaves 

2'-6' long, l^'-S" wide, the radical longer, 8"-15" broad, smooth; 

staminate spike linear, S'-IS" in length, mostly sessile and often 



KEPOET OF THB STATE BOTAmST. 69 

inconspicuous ; pistillate spikes cylindrical, loosely flowered on a 
slightly flexuous rachis |'-1' long, the upper 1 or 2 contiguous to 
the staminate and sessile or nearly so, the lowest on a filiform 
peduncle l'-2' long, all erect or slightly spreading ; bracts leafy, 
2"-4:" broad, acuminate, the lowest much exceeding the culm ; 
perigynia ovoid-elliptical or obovate, nerved, U"-2 " long, half as 
broad, with a short recurved beak, twice the length of the obtuse 
mucronate white scale. 

Rich moist soil in woods and shaded places. Not common. 
June. Albany, Cayuga and Jefferson counties. 

This species was separated from C. laxiflora, to which it was 
formerly joined as Var. latifolia Boott, because of its broad 
leaves and bracts and its short sessile staminate spike. Its large 
perigynia also confirm the validity of its separation. 

The fruit of this and the three precedmg species shells easily, 
and the specimens should be collected while it is yet scarcely 
mature. 

74. Carex granularis Muhl. 

Stems 10-24' high, mostly erect, smooth ; leaves short, usually 
much shorter than the culm, l"-i" wide, smooth, rough near the 
apex, sheaths prominently glaucous; staminate spike subclavate, 
^'-1' long, sessile or short^peduncled, often inconspicuous ; pistil- 
late spikes 2-5, cylindrical, compactly flowered, ^'-1' in length, 
the upper 2 mostly contiguous to the staminate spike, sessile 
or slightly stalked, the others more or less distant on exserted 
peduncles ^'-2' long, erect or the lowest spreading, or rarely on 
a filiform drooping stalk 3' long ; bracts leafy, rough, the lower 
sheathing, exceeding the culm; perigynia round-ovate or oblong- 
conical, prominently nerved, slightly turgid with a short bent 
entire or notched apex, nearly twice longer than the ovate pointed 
thin white scale; achenium obovate, minutely dotted, tipped with 
the abruptly bent style. 

"Wet or moist ground in meadows and grassy places. Common. 
June. 

It is distinguished by the dense, cylindrical fertile spikes, and 
the strongly-nerved perigynia. 

Var. recta Dew. is usuall}^ smaller, the spikes less densely flow- 
ered, the perigynia with a straight acute or acuminate point. 



70 EKPOHT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

Stamiaate spike clavate, peduaculate; pistillate spikes 2-4^ 
short-cylindrical, 3-9 loosely or subloosely flowered, all on 
exserted erect or spreading filiform stalks, the lowest often sub- 
radical or even radical; bracts leafy, sheathed, shorter or longer 
than the culm ; perigynia acutely triangular, finely and closely 
nerved, with a short recurved or sometimes obsolete point ; scale 
thin, white or brown. 

Pistill ite spikes pendulous; leaves 2"-5" broad laxiculmis. 

Pistillate sjjikes erect-spreadiag, leaves 1 "-1|" broad digitalis. 

75. Carex digitalis Willd. 

Stems 6'-lS' high, slender, almost capillary, erect or at length 
spreading, smooth; leaves about the length of the culm 1"-1^''' 
wide, rough-raai'gined, bright green; staminate spike C"-9" long, 
its stalk i'-2^' in length ; pistillate spikes 2-4, loosely 6-9 flow- 
ered, the highest subsessile or long-peduncled, the lower sub- 
distant or remote on filiform spreading peduncles l'-2^' in length 
or more, the lowest sometimes pendulous ; bracts leafy, sheathing, 
equaling or exceeding the culm; perigynia triangular-elliptical, 
finely nerved, with a short, obliquely bent point, nearly twice 
longer than the acute white scale. 

"Woods and ravines. Not very common. June. 

The species is known by its narrow, 3-veined leaves and the 
small triangular perigynia. It usually grows in tufts. 

76. Carex laxiculmis Schw. 

Stems 10-20' high, slender, suberect or prostrate, smooth ; 
leaves mostly shorter than the culm, l^'-S" wide, conspicuously 
3-veined, glaucous, rough on the margins ; staminate spike 
clavate, 6"-10" long, sometimes subtended by a slender green 
bract 2"-5" in length, mostly long-peduncled, exceeding the leaf- 
like sheathing bracts ; pistillate spikes 3"-G" long, densely 3-8- 
flowercd, all except the subsessile highest one on drooping fili- 
form peduncles li'-2^' long ; perigynia triquetrous, elliptical, 
densely nerved, with a short oblique or curved point, exceeding 
the ovate, obtuse or pointed brown or white scale. (C. retro- 
cur va Dew.) 

Thin woods and copses. Common. June. 



BEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. '71 

The broad glaucous leaves and drooping spikes on long fili- 
form peduncles characterize this species. 

There is a late form (Forma serotina) in which the new growth 
develops fruit soon after the old fruit has matured. In it the 
s.aminate spike is inconspicuous or abortive, and the pistillate 
spikes are erect and on peduncles much shorter than usual. 

Staminate spikes clavate; pistillate 2-5, erect, mostly on in- 
cluded stalks; bracts about the length of their long sheaths or 
obsolete ; perigynia acutely angled, finely nerved (obscurely in 
80) with a short recurved or straight beak ; leaves radical, prom- 
inently 3-ribbed (narrow and 1-veined in 80). 

Leaves narrow, l-veined pedunculata. 

Leaves Sribbed, bracts conspicuous 1 

Bracts obsolete, sheaths purple plantaginea. 

1 Leaves 2"-5" broad, dark green Careyana. 

1 Leaves 3''-12" broad, whitish-green platyphylia. 

77. Carex Careyana Torr. 

Stems l°-2° high, erect-spreading, smooth ; leaves rough be- 
neath or smooth throughout, 2"-5" wide, shorter than the culm, 
dark green; staminate spike clavate, 5"-l0" in length, its stalk 
i'-l' long, usually with a scale-like or slender green bract, scales 
purplish or brown ; pistillate spikes 2-3, loosely 2-S fiowered, 
the uppermost sessile at the base of the sterile, the others scat- 
tered, sometimes the lowest remote on a partly included stalk 
I'-iy long; bracts leafy, as long as their sheaths; perigynia 
acutely triangular-ovate, 2"-2^" long, closely nerved, with an 
oblique or recurved beak, twice the length of the ovate, acute or 
mucronate purple-brown scale. 

Woods and ravines. Rare. May. Cayuga, Genesee and 
Jefferson counties. 

78. Carex platyphylia Carei/. 
Stems 8'-15' high, slender, erect, at length widely spreading, 
smooth ; leaves shorter than the culm or rarely exceeding it, 
^'-1' broad, smooth, glaucous or whitish green ; staminate spike 
4"-lo" long, its peduncle J'-l' in length or rarely subsessile, 
usually with a scale like or bristle-shaped bract ; pistillate spikes 
2-3, 2-10 loosely fiowered, scattered, all erect on included stalks; 



72 KKPORT OF THK STATE BOTANIST. 

bracts leafy, about twice the length of the spikes ; perigynia 
ovoid, acutel}' angled, closely nerved, with a recurved, entire or 
notched beak. IV long, a little longer than the pointed brown 
scale. 

Woods, hillsides and ravines. Common. June. 

This species is easily recognized by its broad pale or glaucous 
leaves, conspicuous leaf-like bracts and short, loose, few-flowered 
spikes . 

79. Carex plantaginea Zam. 

Stems l°-2° high, slender, erect, at length spreading or pros- 
trate, smooth ; basal bracts 4-7, acute, dark purple ; leavps shorter 
than the culm, ^'-1' broad or more, smooth, prominently 3-ribbed ; 
staminate spike subclavate, acute at each end, V in length, its stalk 
5"-ir>" long, with dark purple scales; pistillate spikes 3 4, 3-10 
loosely flowered, |'-|' long, distant, erect on included peduncles, 
or the lowest subradical on an exserted stalk l'-2' in length; 
bracts 2"-4" long, acuminate or bristle-tipped, purple, with dark 
purple sheaths i'-l' long or more ; perigynia triangular ovate, 
flnely nerved, with a short recurved beak, 2"-2^" long, a lit'le 
exceeding the ovate, acute, purple-pointed scale . 

Shaded banks, hillsides, copses and open woods. Infrequent. 
May, June. 

This is a very distinct species, recognizable at a glance by its 
broad radical leaves and its purplish sheaths, bracts and scales. 

80. Carex pedunculata J^/^/i^. 

Stems 3'-12' long, slender, diffuse, smooth ; basal bracts purple 
with acute green points; leaves flat, 1"-U" wide, rough beneath, 
stiff, longer than the culm ; staminate spike cylindrical or ovoid, 
sessile, obtuse or acute, 2''-3" long, with dark purple scales; fertile 
spikes 2 -i, 3-8 subdensely flowered, slightly staminate at the 
apex, 2"-4" in length, the uppermost sessile at the base of the 
sterile spike, the others subdistant on stalks V-1' ^ong, suberect 
or spreading, radical spikes numerous, prostrate on filiform 
peduncles 2'~(!' long; bracts inconspicuous, green, about the 
length of the sheaths; perigynia triangalar-obovate, minutely 
downy or smooth, with a long tapering base and a short recurved 
minutely notched beak, smaller than the broadly obovate awned 
or cuspidate purplish scale. 



REPOBT OF THE 6TA.7E BOTAHIST. 73 

Woods and banks. Common. May, June. 

This species is characterized by its commonly prostrate growth, 
inconspicuous bracts and concealed fruit. 

It inhabits chiefly dry shaded situations, but is found in 
meadows, on banks, and amongst shrubbery in rocky places. 

Pistillate spikes 3-4, few flowered, on erect or drooping partly 
included stalks ; bracts obsolete or as long as their respective 
sheaths; perigynia minute, oblong, obscurely nerved, with a bent 
or straight beak ; olive-brown at maturity ; leaves short, 
setaceous or about 1" wide. 

Leaves subradical, not setaceous capillaris. 

Leaves radical, setace ons eburnea. 

81 . Carex capillaris L. 

Stems capillary, 4-12' high, erect, smooth ; leaves shorter than 
the culm, 1" wide or less, rough on the margins, the radical ones 
numerous, flat, soft, often involute when old ; staminate spike 
clavate, 2"-3" long, its stalk 3"- 9" in length ; pistillate spikes 2-3, 
scattered, the uppermost usually erect and equaling the staminate 
spike, the lower on drooping peduncles 3"- 12" long; bracts leaf- 
like, as long as their respective sheaths or more, the lowest 
usually exceeding its spike; perigynia oblong, 1"-U"in length, 
nerveless, 2-ribbed, slightly turgid, somewhat thin in texture, olive 
brown, with a slender, entire roughish beak about twice the 
length of the ovate obtuse brown scale ; acheuium narrowly 
obovoid. 

Wet places. Local. Cortland county. 

82. Carex eburnea /?oo«. 
Stoloniferous ; stems 5'-12' high, capillary, but firm and erect, 
smooth; leaves bristle-shaped, recurved-spreading, rough above 
the middle, shorter than the culm; staminate spike linear, 3"-5" 
long, sessile or slightly peJuncled between the more elevated and 
conspicuous pistillate spikes, acute at each end, the brown scales 
often partly concealed by the scarious sheaths ; pistillate spikes 
2-4, 2-6 densely flowered, l"-2" long, approximate on slender 
stalks 4"-8" in length, sonielimes the lowest distant ; sheaths 
scarious, white with a tinge of brown at the base; perigynia 
10 



74 KEPOKT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

triangular obovate, obscurely nerved, smooth, olive-brown, shin- 
ing, with a minute round beak, longer than the ovate obtuse or 
acutish light-brown scale. 

Thin soil on or about limestone ledges. June. 

A very small species, but one easily known by its setaceous 
leaves and its very small erect pistillate spikes surpassing the 
staminate one. 

Plant dioecious ; staminate and pistillate spikes of the same size 
and color ; bracts, when present, scale-like or setaceous, sheathless ; 
perigynia dark purple, densely hairy, with a short, entire beak ; 
scales blackish purple. 

83. Carex scirpoidea Mx. 

Stoloniferous ; stems 6'-15' high, slender, erect, smooth : basal 
bracts dark purple, acute or obtuse; leaves subradical, stiff, 
mostl}'^ much shorter than the culm, 1" wide, smooth ; staminate 
spike subclavate, ^'-V in length with a small greenish tri-nerved 
cuspidate bract and dark purple scales; pistillate spikes \'-V 
long, densely flowered ; bracts setaceous, sheathless ; perigynia 
ovate, very hairy, gradually tapering to a short entire or notched 
beak, mostly covered by the acutish blackish-purple ciliate scale. 

Thin soil covering rocks. Adirondack mountains. July. 

Plant mona'cious; staminate s))ikeclavate,sessileorshort-stalked; 
pistillate spikes 1-5, globular-ovoid, oblong or cylindrical, sessile or 
short-stalked, the upper 2 contiguous or approximate, or all distinct 
and the lowest subdistant, each subtended by a scale-like or green 
bract, the lowest often by a leafy one i'-2i' long ; perigynia 
subrotund, oval or elliptical, obtusely or acutely angled, mostly 
densely pubescent, abruj)tly contracted into a slender bifid beak ; 
scale ovate, commonly brown or purplish, equaling or shorter 
than the perigynia. 

Plant pubescent pubescens. 

Plant gl.abrous 1 

1 Pistillate Bpikes on short stems, umbellately clustered, umbellata. 

1 Pistillate spikes not umbellately clustered 2 

2 Br.ict8 sheatbing, puqilish Richardsonii. 

2 Bracts not sheathing 3 

3 Staminate spike a" long or less 4 

3 Staminate spike more than 3" long 6 



KEPt.Er OF THE STATE BOTANIST, 75 

4 Culms weak, recurved or reclining 5 

4 Culms erect or spreading Peckii. 

5 Radical spikes present deflexa. 

5 Radical spikes wanting Emmonsii. 

6 Staminate spike about ^" wide, the lowest pistillate 

spike with a long slender green bract Novse-Angliaa. 

6 Staminate spike more than y wide 7 

7 Plant stoloniferoua, scales of pistillate spikes com- 
monly brown or purplish Pennsylvanica. 

7 Plant not stoloniferous, scales of pistillate spikes 

commonly greenish or tawny varia. 

84. Carex umbellata Schk. 

Stems 2'-'i' high, erect, growing in dense tufts from strong 
fibrous roots, somewhat stoloniferous; leaves 2'-10' long, about 
1" wide, flat, or sometimes involute, rough, stiff, erect or spread- 
ing ; staminate spike clavate, |'- 1' in length, rarely with a pistillate 
spike at its base ; pistillate spikes in clusters of 2 or 3 on stems 
y -2' long ; usually level topped, 3 -8 flowered ; perigynia ovoid or 
triangular-obovate, nerveless, lightly pubescent, green or turn- 
ing to brownish with age, with an abrupt flattish bidentate 
beak, usually covered by the ovato pointed scale. 

Dry or sandy soil and rocky i)laces. Common. May, June. 

The urabel-like clusters of pistillate spikes suggest the name of 
this species. They are often half concealed by the leaves. 

Var. vicina Dew. A form with 1 or '2 fertile spikes at the 
base of the sterile spike. 

It is found with the typical form. 

85. Carex Pennsylvanica Lat7i. 

Stoloniferous ; stems 6-18' high, slender, erect or spreading, 
rough or smooth, basal sheaths purplish or dull brown, tibrillose; 
leaves mostly about the length of the culm but sometimes ex- 
ceeding it, i"-l|-" wide, rough-margined, bright or dull green, 
erect or diffuse ; staminate spike club shaped, 5"-y" long, usually 
sessile, scales oblong obtuse or pointed, brown, or blackish brown ; 
pistillate spikes 1-4, usually 3, globular or oblong, densely or 
loosely flowered, the upper 2 contiguous, sessile, the lowest 2"-6" 
distant, sessile or slightly stalked, bracts scale-like acute or 



76 EBPOBT OF THB STATE BOTANIST. 

bristle-tipped, or sometimes the lowest leaf like and 9"-! 8' in length; 
perigynia subrotund or obovate, obtusely angled, densely or 
lightly pubescent, indistinctly nerved, abruptly contracted at the 
base, and nirrowe I above into a short bifid beili, covered by the 
ovato acute or acuminate, dark purplish or light brown scale. 

Dryish soil in woods, copses or open places. Very common. 
May, June. 

Var. separans Peck. Pistillate spikes 1-3, usuall}' 2, the upper- 
most approximate to the short-stalked dark-brown sterile spike, 
the lowest 5"-10" distant; perigynia with a longer and more 
slender beak ; otherwise like the type (Var. distans. Report 46, 
p. 51). 

Along or within the borders of woods. Jefferson and Otsego 
counties. June. 

Var. gracilifolia Peck, n. nom. Leaves long and slender, ^"-f" 
wide, sometimes slightly involute and almost capillarv, about 
equaling or sometimes considerably surpassing the slender culm. 
(Var. angustifolia I. c.) 

Light or sandy soil in woods or open places. It often grows in 
tufts. This variety*is common on Long Island. May. 

Because of the frequent previous use of the varietal name 
under which this plant was published it is thought best to give it 
a new name. 

Var. glumabunda Peck, n. var. Stems 8'-lS' high, rather 
weak and often somewhat drooping, frequently growing in 
definite tufts; pistillate spikes mostly short and sessile as in the 
type, but sometimes the lowest 3"-8" long, conspicuously stalked 
or on a capillary peduncle 2'-S' long which issues from the axil 
of the uppermost leaf, the others near the staminate spike and 
contiguous to each other or the lower sometimes 4"-6" distant, 
these occasionally sterile and acute at the apex ; scales conspicu. 
ously brown or blackish brown, oblong-ovate or lanceolate, sharp- 
pointed or cuspidate, longer than the perigynia and widely 
spreading at maturity. (Forma paleacea in part, 1. c.) 

Sandy soil. Albany and Suffolk counties. 

Very rarely a second long-peduncled spike issues from the axil 
of one of the lower leaves. In all these varieties the bract of 
the lowest sessile spike is sometimes longer than its spike and 
green or foliaceous. 



BEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 77 

86. Carex varia Muhl. 

Stems 6-18' high, rather stout, erect or spreading, roughish 
above the middle ; basal bracts bright purple, fibrillose ; leaves 
mostly shorter than the culm, l"-2" wide, rough ; staminate spike 
clavate, 4:"-12" long, sessile or short-stalked, tawny or brown ; 
pistillate spikes 2-5, usually 3, globular or oblong, sessile or 
sometimes the lowest short-peduncled, all separate or the upper 
2 occasionally contiguous, each with a scale like bract or the 
lower 2 subtended by leaf like bracts i'-2' long; perigynia sub- 
rotund or obovate, pubescent, abruptly contracted into a short 
bifid beak, covered by the ovate, pointed, pale-greenish, whitish 
or tawny-brown scale. (C. communis Bailey, Gray's Man., 6th ed.) 

It is noteworthy that the smallest plants often have the long 
staminate spikes, and commonly the tall plants the short spikes 
which are i"-G" long. In his description of this species Muhlen- 
berg remarks, " variat spica mascula abbreviata etelongata." No 
other species in this group is known to have such a variable 
staminate spike. 

In some of its forms C. Pennsylvanica approaches this species, 
but the absence of creeping rootstocks, the paler scales of the 
pistillate spikes and the more constant green foliaceous bract of 
the lowest spike will distinguish this plant. The scale of the 
pistillate spike is often entirely whitish or scarious except the 
green midrib. The species is found chiefly in hilly or rocky 
places in loose or gravelly soil. It seems to avoid sandy soil. 
It matures its fruit in May and June. 

The name C. varia Muld. formerly applied to this species was 
referred by Prof. Bailey to C. Eramonsii Dew., and in its place he 
substituted C. communis Bailey. This name was discarded in 
the List of Plants of Northeastern North America, and C. pedi- 
cellata Brltton adopted in its stead. 

87. Carex Eminonsii Bew. 
Stems capillary, 3'-15' high, suberect or procumbent, smooth; 
basal sheaths dull purplish-brown, mostly green at the extremi- 
ties, slightly fibrillose ; leaves lax, about \" wide or more, flat, 
rough-margined, shorter than the culm or sometimes surpassing 
it; staminate spike slender, subclavate, sessile about 3" long, 



78 BEPOHT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

acute or obtuse, commonly pale, but dark brown in the variety; 
pistillate spikes 2-4, ovoid, sessile, the upper 2 contiguous, the 
other distinct, densely 3-S flowered, each with a scale-like bract, 
the lowest often bristle-tipped, or rarely leaf like ; perig\mia tri- 
angular-ovxl, pubescent, with a long slender base, contracted 
above into a narrow, oblique, bifid beak, usually about the length 
oC the body; scale ovate-oblong, pointed, whitish, barely tinged 
with brown, as long as the perigynium. 

Commonly in dry places but sometimes in low wet soil. Com- 
mon. May, June. 

The sjiecies is easily recognized by its weak reclining or pros- 
trate stems, contiguous or approximate pistillate spikes and short, 
narrow, sessile, staminate spike. 

Yar. distincta Howe n. va?: Light or glaucous green ; stam- 
inate spike linear V wide, 2"~5" long; pistillate spikes distinct, 
2*-5" apart, the lowest with a green bract 2-i times the length 
of the spike, 3-5 flowered ; perigynia obovoid, minutely pubescent, 
with a rather short, straight or oblique bifid beak, about the 
length of the acute white scale. 

This variety seems to be intermediate between the type and C. 
Novaj-Anglia;. 

Var. colorata. Differs from the type onl}' in its dark purple 
scales, which give a much darker color to the spikes than in the 
type. Common in Westchester county. It is C. variail/^K/(Z. var. 
colorata Builey in the Manual. 

89. Carex Novae-Angliae Schw. 
Stoloniferous ; stems 4'-12' high, slender, diffuse or erect, 
slightly rough above the middle, usuall}"^ purple and a little 
fibrillose at the base ; leaves mostly shorter than the culm, \"-V 
wide, flat, erect or spreading, rougli-margined, bright green; 
staminate spike linear, 3"-6" long, |" wide, sbort-peduncled or 
subsessile, light brown ; ])istillato spikes 1-3, ovoid, densely 
flowered, the upper 2 contiguous, or sometimes S'-O" apart, 
sessile or the lower one on a short pedicel, each with a scale-like 
awned bract longer than the s])ike, the lowest distant, con- 
spicuously stalked, subtended by a green filiform bract nearly or 
fully equaling the culm; perigynia trianguhxr ol)ovoid, slightly 
pubescent, tapering to a short base and abruptly contracted 



REPOHT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 79 

above into a short, slender, bidentate beak, mostly covered by 
the ovate acute or pointed whitish scale. 

Damp soil in shaded hilly places. Rare. Rensselaer county. 
June. 

The distant lowest pistillate spike with its long slender green 
bract and the very narrow short-peduncled staminate spike are 
noticeable features of this species. 

90. Carex Peckii Jlowe. 

Strongly stoloniferous ; stems 3-18' high, slender, erect or 
spreading, smooth, purplish and lightly fibrillose at base ; leaves 
mostly much shorter than the culm, 1"-H" wide, open and flat, 
soft, erect or spreading, rough-margined, bright green ; staminate 
spike linear, H"-3" long, sessile, often invisible, scales brown, 
white-margined ; pistillate spikes 2-3, ovoid, sessile, 2-8 closely 
flowered, the upper two crowded, usually concealing the stamin- 
ate spike, each with a green setaceous or shortawned, divergent 
bract mostly not longer than the spike, the lowest 1^ "-2 "distant, 
subtended by a green divergent bract about twice the length of 
the spike; perigynia triangular-elliptical, l|"-2" long, |" broad, 
hairy, with an evenly tapering base and a short bidentate beak, 
longer than the ovate acute or cuspidate whitish or brownish 
scale ; achenium exactly elliptical, ^" wide, substipitate, the style 
deciduous at its base. 

Dry soil in woods and open places. May, June. Albany, 
Essex, Jefferson, Cayuga and Yates counties. 

This is C. Emmonsii Dew. var. elliptica Boott. 

9 1 . Carex deflexa Ilomem. 

Densely tufted ; stems 2'"6' high, capillary, curved, diffuse, 
smooth ; basal bracts acute or cuspidate fibrillose, dull brown or 
purple ; leaves shorter or longer than the cidm, |" -1" wide, smooth, 
open and flat ; staminate spike small and inconspicuous ; pistillate 
spikes 1-3, usually 2, contiguous, 2-6 flowered, 1"-1^" in length 
and thickness, green or brownish, the lowest slightly peduncled 
with a green filiform bract 2"-4" long ; radical spikes occasional ; 
perigynia pyriform, tri-costate, thinly pubescent, contracted 
above into a short, flat, slightly curved or oblique beak, a little 
exceeding the ovate acute or acutish, green and purple glume. 



80 EBPOBT OP THE STATE BOTANIST. 

Adirondack mountains. July. 

It forms small dense tufts, the short capillary stems often being 
prostrate at maturity, the longer leaves parti}' concealing the fruit ; 
or, they are suberect, and the spikes drooping; by which, and the 
apparent absence of the sterile spikes, this delicate species may 
be readily known. 

Var. Deanei Hailey. Stems 6'--12' high, mostly longer than 
the leaves ; staminate spilce 2"--3" long, less than \" wide, often 
oblique; pistillate spikes 4-8 flowered, '2"-3" apart, the lowest 
conspicuously stalked, its bract leaf-like and longer than the culm ; 
radical spikes few or numerous. 

Adirondack mountains. 

92. Carex Richardsonii R. Br. 
Stoloniferous ; stems 4'-9' high, stiff, erect or recur ved-spreading, 

rough ; basal bracts dull purple or tawny ; leaves shorter than or 
as long as the culm, 1"-1|-" wide, smooth, rough margined, their 
extremities of ten involute, stiff, erect or recurved-spreadirg; stam- 
inate spike clavate, about 1' long, on a short stalk or subsessile, 
conspicuousl}' mottled ; pistillate spikes 1--2, 3"--9" long, densely 
flowered, approximate, erect, the lowest on an included stalk, 
its sheath (or bract) 6"-9" long, acute or acuminate, usually cover- 
ing the lowest scale, dark purple or brown ; perigynia subglobose 
or obovoid, thickly pubescent, obscurely nerved, with a long 
tapering base, contracted above into a short point with an entire 
or erose oridce; scale ovate-obljng, obtuse, purplish-brown with 
scarious margins. 

Dry ground. Rare. Monroe county. 

This species seems to be quite local. It is, however, well 
marked by its pur])lish bracts and by its spikes appearing as if 
spotted with purple or bixjwnish-purple. 

93. Carex pubescens Mahl. 

Stems l°-2' l^'gb, erect, hairy ; leaves shorter than the culm 
l^"-2^" wide, pubescent, dull green ; staminate spike subclavate, 
on a peduncle 3"-6" long, erect, tawny ; pistillate spikes 2-4, 
oblong or short cylindrical, subdensely ilowered, 5"-9" long, 
approximate, the upper 2 sessile or nearly so, the lowest on stalks 
3"-0" in length, all erect ; bracts conspicuous, the upper setaceous, 
the lowest leaf-like, l'-2' long; perigynia acutely triangular- 



EEPOET OF THB STATE BOTANIST. 81 

obovate, densely hairy, 2" long, f " wide, obscurely nerved, with a 
prominent bifid beak, a little longer than the oblong-ovate, cus- 
pidate white scale. 

"Wet, grassy places. Common. June. 

It is distinguished from the other species of this group by its 
larger size and general pubescence. 

Staminate spike single, stalked, often fertile at the apex ; pistil- 
late spikes 3-5, C3"lindrical, densely or loosely flowered on a 
straight or fle.xuous rachis, all on filiform more or less drooping 
peduncles; bracts sheathing, longer or shorter than the culm; 
perigynia obtusely or sharply triangular ovate or fusiform with 
a long tapering beak, slightly inflated. 

Pistillate spikes densely flowered 1 

Pistillate spikes loosely flowered 2 

1 Spikes clavate or cylindrical, green, perigynia sharply 

angled prasina. 

1 Spikes cj'lindrical, fulvous, perigynia obtusely angled . . . castanea. 

2 Perigynia short-stalked arctata. 

2 Perigynia sessile 3 

3 Perigynia tapering into a long beak debilis. 

3 Perigynia contracted into a rather short beak glabra. 

94. Carex prasina Wahl. 

Stems 15'-30' high, slender, often diffuse, slightly scabrous on 
the acute angles; leaves shorter than the culm, rough at the sum- 
mit and on the margins, 1^" wide or less ; staminate spike cylin- 
drical or club-shaped, I'-l^' long, on a filiform peduncle i'-l' in 
length, mostly drooping, often with a few pistillate flowers at 
the apex ; pistillate spikes 3— l, cylindrical, V-iy long, densely 
flowered or loosel}' flowered at the base, on filiform nodding 
stalks, the upper 2 or 3 approximate, the lowest remote on a 
peduncle 1^-2^' in length ; bracts leafy, the lower ones usually 
surpassing the culm, the upper 1 or 2 often slender, scarcely 
exceeding the spike ; perigynia acutely triangular, few-nerved, 
tapering each way from below the middle, terminating above in 
a short, smooth, minutely-notched or entire beak, exceeding the 
oblong-ovate, acute or cuspidate white scale ; achenium 
triangular-elliptical, apiculate. 

Moist or wet fields and woods. Common. May, June. 
11 



82 EEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

The pistillate spikes, when fresh, are f a'e green and more 
densely flowered than in any of the other members of this group. 
This is C. miliacea Muhl. of the older botanies. 

95. Carex arctata Boott. 

Stems l°-2° high, slender, erect-spreading or diffuse, smooth, 
somewhat stoloniferous, basal bracts dark purple ; leaves mostly 
shorter than the culm, radical leaves numerous, l^"-5" wide, 
smooth, rough-margined ; staminate spike linear, 6"-9" long, its 
filiform stalk 5 "-8" in length, often inconspicuous; pistillate 
spikes 3-5, i'-l^' long, loosely flowered on a flexuous rachis, all 
on drooping peduncles |'-3' long, scattered, or the upper 2 
approximate, the highest usually extending above the staminate 
spike, the lowest remote ; bracts leafy, sheathing, or the upper 
mostly filiform, equaling or extending above the culm ; perigynia 
ovate, stipitate, nerved, obtusely angled, tapering to a short 
bidentate beak, longer than the white, acute or cuspidate scale ; 
achenium obovoid, apiculate. 

Woods and shaded banks. Common. May, June. 

The stipitate perigynia constitute a distinguishing feature of 
this species. 

C. arctata x castanea Bailey. Pubescent; spikes 1" wide, 
loosely flowered, green or yellowish, somewhat approximate, 
erect-spreading or drooping; perigynia ovate, nerved, hairy, with 
a short bifid beak a little e.Kceeding the acute whitish scale. 
(C. Knieskernii Dew.) In the List of the Plants of Nortlipastern 
North America this stands as C. arctata x formosa Bailey. 

96. Carex debilis Mx. 
Stems 1°-2|° high, slender, erect or spreading, smooth, some- 
times stoloniferous; leaves shorter or longer than the culm, 
l^"-2" wide, spreading, rough ; staminate spike linear, pistillate 
at the summit, short-stalked or subsessile ; pistillate spikes ."5-5, 
linear or narrowly cylindrical, loosely flowered on a flexuous 
rachis l'-3' long, the 2 or 3 upper approximate on drooping 
stalks i'-2' in length, or the highest nearly erect, the lowest 
remote, pendulous on a penducle 2' 3' long, rarely branched at 
the base ; bracts leafy, sheathing, exceeding or equaling the culm ; 
perigynia fusiform, nerved, 3" long, tapering into a long slender 



HEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTAKIST. 83 

hyaline bifid beak, twice the length of the obtuse or acutish 
white scale; acheniam exactly elliptical, stipitate, apiculate. 

Fields and woods. Very common. June, July. 

The species is distinguished by its long flexuous fertUe spikes 
and its spindle-shaped perigynia. 

Var. strictior Bi'iley. Stems taller and mostly erect ; leaves 
firmer, 2" wide, spikes stiff and erect or erect-spreading ; peri- 
gynia deep green, a little longer than the scale. 

Var. interjecta Bailey. Stems tall, erect; pistillate spikes 
nearlj' erect, often compound at base, alternately flowered ; peri- 
gynia shorter than in the tj'pe. Differs from the last in its nar- 
rower leaves and more loosely flowered spikes. 

97. Carex glabra Boott. 

Stems l°-2'' high, slender, erect or somewhat spreading, 
smooth ; basal bracts dark purple ; leaves about the length of the 
culm or less, l"-li" wide, rough, bright green ; staminate spike 
linear, 1' long or more, short-ped uncled, often fertile at the apex; 
pistillate spikes 3-4, cylindrical, flexuous, subloosely flowered, 
\'-\\' long, the upper 2 approximate, the lowest remote, all on 
filiform drooping peduncles l'-(J' long, or the uppermost short- 
stalked and suberect ; bracts leafy or the upper ones filiform, 
sheathing, usually exceeding the culm ; perigynia narrowly 
oblong-elliptical or lanceolate, nerved, 2^"-3'' or more in length, 
gradually tapering into an empty sharply bidentate beak, twice 
the length of the obtuse brown-margined scale. 

Wet places. Rare. June, July. Oneida and Otsego counties. 

The few flowered slighth^ flexuous fertile spikes and the large 
perigynia are characteristic of this species, which approaches 
debilis in appearance. 

98. Carex castanea Wald. 
Stoloniferous ; stems l°-2° high, erect, acutely angled, lightly 
pubescent, basal bracts dull brown, pubescent ; stem leaves l'-3' 
in length, the radical half as long as the culm or more, l^"-2* 
broad, soft-hairy, conspicuously veined, glaucous or fulvous-green; 
staminate spike clavate, usually acutish at each end, 6"-9" long, on 
a stiff stalk W-V in length, bright brown ; pistillate spikes 2-i, 
oblong, or cylindrical, densely flowered, sometimes stei'ile at the 
apex or base, ^'-1' long, 2' wide, the upper 2 or 3 aggregated on 



84 KEPOBT OF THB STATE BOTANIST. 

drooping stalks ^'-1' in length, the lowest distant and pendulous ; 
bracts variable, the lowest leafy, 2'-3' long, sheathing, the upper 
setaceous ; perigynia ovate-lanceolate, 2V long, turgid, 2-ribbed, 
obscurely nerved, spreading, tapering into a long smooth or 
roughish, mostly entire beak, about one-third longer than the 
acute, fringed, brown scale. 

Very rare. May, June. Oneida and Herkimer counties. 

Well marked by its glaucous leaves, and its short, yellowish or 
brown spikes, the upper subtended by setaceous bracts. This 
is C. flexilis liudge in the older botanies. 

Perigynia moderately iniiated. 

Staminate spikes 1-4, the terminal stalked ; pistillate spikes 
2-5, sessile or short-stalked (the lower ones long-stalked in 99), 
approximate or distant, ovoid, oblong or C3'lindrical ; bracts leafy, 
longer or shorter than the culm ; perigynia ovoid or oblong- 
conic, nerved, smooth or pubescent, somewhat coriaceous in tex- 
ture, with a short bifid beak. 

Perigynia scabro-pubescent scabrata. 

Perigynia smooth or granular, pistillate spikes distant, 

purple polymorpha. 

Perigynia pubescent 1 

Perigynia smooth or slightly rough, spikes not purple. . 2 

1 Pistillate spikes cylindrical, leaves involute filLformis. 

1 Pistillate spikes cylindrical, leaves not involute 3 

3 Leaves and bracts exceeding the culm lanuginosa. 

3 Leaves and bracts shorter than the culm 4 

4 Spikes ovoid or oblong, approximate vestita. 

4 Spikes oblong-cj'lindrical, distant Iloughtonii 

2 Pistillate spikes 6"-12" long, 2"-4" wide, leaves involute. striata, 

2 Pistillate spikes 2-3' long, 4"-5" wide, leaves flat riparia. 

99. Carex scabrata Schto. 
Stems l°-2° high, rather stout, rough on the angles; leaves 
numerous, the upper ones surpassing the culm, 2"-3 " wide, rough, 
light-green ; staminate spike clavate, 6"-9" long, its peduncle 
2"-6" in length ; pistillate spikes 3-5, cylindrical, densely flowered 
above, thinly at the base, approximate or scattered, the upper 2 
sessile and erect, the others on erect or spreading stalks h'-Ih' in 
length ; bracts leafy, sheathless or sometimes the upper ones 
short-filiform, the lowest surpassing the culm; perigynia ovoid. 



EKPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 85 

nerved, slightly turgid, scabro-pubescent, contracted into a short 
obliquely toothed beak, exceeding the ovate acute or cuspidate 
brown scale ; acheniuni obovate, acutely triangular. 

Scattered or in patches along streams and in wet places. 
Common. June. 

A rather coarse but bright-green species with the fertile spikes 
of a bristly or squarrose appearance when mature. It is some- 
what stoloniferous. 

100. Carex flliformis L. 

Stems \°-Z° high, slender, erect, obtusely angled, mostly 
smooth ; basal bracts l'-2|^' in length, pointed, purplish-brown, 
more or less fibrillose ; leaves 1"-U" wide, carinate, prominently 
grooved, smooth, rough- margined, becoming doubled or involute 
when dry, shorter than the culm, the radical ones numerous and 
longer; staminate spikes 1-3, rarely 4, clavate or cylindrical, 
l'-2' in length, on a slender peduncle 1-2^' long, subtended by a 
scale-like, bristle-tipped, or short setaceous bract ; pistillate spikes 
1-4, usually 2, cylindrical, densely flowered, or sometimes loosely 
at the base, subdistant or remote, sessile, or the lowest short- 
stalked, often staminate at the apex, ^'-1^' in length ; perigynia 
obtusely triangular, ovoid, nerved, of a thick coriaceous texture, 
densely pubescent or tomentose, slightly inflated, contracted into 
a short, sharply toothed beak, mostly covered by the ovate 
lanceolate, pointed or rough cuspidate brown scale, the latter 
usually widely spreading at maturity. 

Swamps and wet meadows. Common. June, July. 

This species may be recognized by the long sterile, and gray- 
ish fertile spikes, and by the usually erect, narrow, carinate 
leaves. It seems to prefer cold elevated swamps and bogs, 
though by no means limited to them. 

101. Carex lanuginosa Mx. 
Stems l"'-2'^ tigh, stout, erect, acutely angled, roughish above 
the middle; root stock some;vha.t creeping ; leaves open and flat, 
smooth, l"-!^' mde, shorter ^han the culm ; staminate spikes 
1-3, \'-\\' long on svili peduncles \'-\\' in length; pistillate 
spikes 2-1, |'-1' in lengtn, 2^r"-3" thick, densely flowered, cylin- 
drical, the uppermost usually sessile, the lower distant on short 
stalks, or the lowest remcte » n a slender peduncle I'-l^' long, 



86 KEFOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

spreading or suberect, the others mostly ascending; bracts 
leafy, the lowest sheathing, longer or shorter than the culm; 
perigynia ovate, nerved, densely hairy, abruptly contracted into 
a short bidentate beak, about the length of the ovate cuspidate 
brown spreading scale. 

Wet meadows, marshes and swales. Not rare. June. 

This differs from the preceding in its open flat leaves, shorter 
bracts and stalked fertile spikes. The carinate or involute leaves 
of the former cause them to appear to be much more narrow 
than those of this species, "which is considered by some to be a 
mere variety of C. filiformis. 

102. Carex vestita Wi/ld. 

Stoloniferous ; stems l°--3° high, rigid, acutelv angled, rough 
at the summit; basal bracts fibrillose ; leaves 1"-!^" broad, rough, 
shorter than the culm ; staminate spikes 1-2, clavate, mostly 
sessile, I' -1 J' long; pistillate spikes 2 -4, ovoid or short-oblong, 
5"-9" in length, compactly flowered, approximate or distant, 
rarely remote, sessile, erect, frequentl}' with a teiv staminate 
flowers at the apex ; bracts leafy, as long as the spikes, or the 
lowest 1^' long; perigynia ovate, nerved, densely hispid-pubes- 
cent, contracted into a short beak, tne white orifice erose or 
slightly notched ; scale ovate, cuspidate, brown with a white 
margin. 

Wet or dry sandy places. Rather rare, Albany, Richmond 
and Suffolk counties. 

It is credited by Dr. Torrey to the western countjes of the 
State, but if there, it must be very scarce. 

103. Carex polymorpha 3f>if>l 

Stems l°-2° high, stout, strict, acutelv angled, smooth; leaves 
l'-6' long or more, I'-S" broad, smooth ; staminate spikes 1-4, 
the terminal short or long-ped uncled, clavate, I'-l' long, fre- 
quently with a few pistillate lluwers at the base ; pistillate spikes 
1-2, usually cylindrical, densely flowered, occasionally sterile at 
the apex, J^'-H' long, on exserted erect stalks V-V in length; 
bracts leaty sheathing, mostly as long as the spike ; perigynia 
oblong ovate, nerved, conspicuously turgid, minutely papillose or 
smooth, abruptly contracted into a slender purplish beak with 



EEPOEr OF THE STATB BOTANIST. 87 

an oblique, entire or slightly notched orifice, longer than the 
ovate, obtuse, dark purple scale. 

" "Western counties." Dr. Torrey in the N. Y. State Flora. 
It does not appear to have been collected in the State recently. 

104. Carex striata Mx. 

Stoloniferous ; stems 15'-30' high, stiff and erect, acutely 
angled, rough near the summit; basal bracts purple, fibrillose; 
leaves shorter or longer than the culm, l"-2" wide, the upper sur- 
face rough, involute when dry ; staminate spikes 2-3, the terminal 
one l'-2' long, short stalked or subsessile, the lowest with a seta- 
ceous bract y -1' in length; pistillate spikes 1-2, distant or 
remote, the highest sessile, the lowest short-peduncled, densely 
or subdensely flowered, 9"--18" long, erect; bracts leafy, shorter 
or longer than the culm, or the highest about equaling it ; peri- 
gynia oblong-ovate or subglobose, prominently nerved, smooth or 
roughish with a scattered pubescence, somewhat divergent, 
abruptly contracted into a short bifid beak with whitish teeth, 
about twice the length of the ovate, obtuse or acute, thin scale. 

Wet places and boggy shores of ponds. Suffolk county. June. 

Var. brevis Bailey. More slender, the leaves and bracts shorter 
and narrower (I" wide), the fertile spikes narrower, the highest 
sometimes sterile at the apex and the perigynia pubescent ; other- 
wise like the type. 

105. Carex Houghtonii Torre;/. 

Stoloniferous; stems l°-2° high, stiff, erect, acutely angled, 
rough at the summit; leaves shorter than the culm, I'-g" wide, 
rough-margined ; staminate spikes 1-2, clavate, the terminal one 
on a stiff peduncle i'-l' long, the lowest often with a setaceous 
or brislleform bract as long as the spike or longer; pistillate 
spikes 1-3, cylindrical or short oblong, subdensely flowered, 
^'-1' long, subdistant, the upper two sessile, the lowest on an 
exserted stalk 3"-9" in length, all erect ; bracts leafj% sheathless, 
or the lowest short-sheathed, equaling or exceeding the culm; 
perigynia broadl}'^ ovate, prominently nerved, rough-pubescent, 
abruptly contracted into a short, slender, sharply toothed beak, 
a little exceeding the ovate pointed or rough-awned brown scale ; 
achenium broadly obovate, minutely dotted. 



8S REPOBT OF THE 8TATB BOTANIST. 

Sandy soil. Rare. Essex and Saratoga counties. June, July. 
Sometimes the mature perigynia become reddish-brown or 
almost chestnut color. 

106. Carex riparia Curtis. 

Stoloniferous ; stems 2^-3^-° high, stout, acutely angled, rough 
above the middle, flaccid at the base ; leaves longer than the 
culm, 2"-5" wide, mostly smooth on the upper surface, rough 
beneath, erect or spreading, glaucous; staminate spikes 2-5, 
cylindrical, the highest H' in length on a stalk 1' long or less, 
the lowest with a setaceous bract 1-14^' long; pistillate spikes 
2-4, densely flowered, or loosely at the base, cylindrical or 
clavate, 14-3' long, 4"-5" thick, distant, the uppermost subsessile, 
the others short-peduncled, all erect, or the lowest sometimes 
spreading; bracts leafy, equaling or exceeding the culm; 
perigynia oblong-conical, finely nerved, smooth, gradually taper- 
ing into a short conical bidentate beak, a little longer than the 
ovate-lanceolate, awned scale ; achenium narrowly obovate, 
apiculate. 

Bogs, swamps and wet places. Common. June. 

This is readily determined by the large erect spikes and 
oblong-conical, finely-nerved, olive-brown perigynia. It is 
C. lacustris Willd. 

Staminate spikes 1-5, stalked or the lower ones sessile, rarely 
fertile at the apex ; pistillate spikes 1-4, cylindrical or short- 
oblong, densely or subdensely flowered, subapproximate, distant 
or remote, sessile or nearly so, erect ; bracts leaf3% the lower 
short-sheathing or sheathless, mostly surpassing the culm; 
perigynia turgid, ovate-lanceolate, nerved, pubescent or smooth, 
with a long bifurcate beak, the teeth mostly recurved-spreading. 

Perigynia smooth aristata. 

Perigynia hairy 1 

1 Staminate Hpikes 1-2 liirta. 

1 Staminate spikes 2-5 trichocarpa. 

107. Carex liirta L. 

Stoloniferous ; stems 8'-24' high, slender, erect or spreading, 
smooth below the summit, obtusely angled ; leaves shorter than 
the culm, or, in low forms, the radical surpassing it, I'-IJ" wide, 



KEPOET OF THE BTATB BOTANIST. 89 

scabro-pubescent, densely hairy on the sheaths, light green; 
staminate spikes 1-2, cjlindrical, ^'-H' long, on a slender 
peduncle l'-2' in length, the lowest ^' long and sessile; pistillate 
spikes 1-3, distant or remote, the highest sessile, the lowest on 
an included stalk ^'-1' ia length, erect, subdensely flowered, 
i'-\y long; bracts leafy, the lowest sheathing, surpassing the 
culm ; perigynia ovate-oblong or lanceolate, prominently nerved, 
turgid, downy-pubescent, 3 " long, tapering into a long slender 
bifurcate beak, longer than the ovate rough-awned scale. 

Introduced. Rare or local. Cayuga county. June, July. 

It is separated from the next by its light green foliage and 
downy sheaths, and by its fewer, softer fertile spikes. 

108. Carex trichocarpa Muhl. 

Stems 2°-3' high, rigidly erect, acutely angled, smooth or his- 
pid on the angles above ; leaves stiff, rough, 2"~3" wide, longer 
than the culm ; staminate spikes 2-5, linear or subclavate, y-iy 
long, the terminal short-stalked, rarely with a few fertile flowers 
at the base or apex, the lowest, which is frequently the longest, 
with a bristleform bract, each tapering to an acute apex ; pistil- 
late spikes 2-4, distant, short-peduncled, or the highest subsessile, 
erect, cylindrical, closely flowered above, somewhat loosely at the 
base, l'-2i' long or more ; bracts leafy, sheathless, longer than 
the culm ; perigynia oblong-ovate, prominently nerved, hispidly 
pubescent, gradually tapering into a long bifurcate beak, the 
teeth sharp and spreading; scale ovate-lanceolate, thin, brown 
with scarious margins, shorter than the perigynium ; achenium 
obovate, apiculate, smooth. 

Marshes and wet places. Common. June, July. 

Prominently marked by its 2-5 narrow acute sessile sterile 
spikes, and its rough-hairy, deeply cleft perigynia. 

Var. imberbis Gray. A. reduced form with rough sheaths, 
smooth perigynia and mostly longer scales. 

109. Carex aristata -R. -Bn 

Stems 1°-2|^° high, erect, stout, acutely angled, smooth below 

the spikes ; leaves longer than the culm, l|^"-3" wide, smooth, 

rough on the margins, stiff, yellowish green ; staminate spikes 

1-4, club-shaped, the uppermost on a stalk ^'-1' long ; pistillate 

12 



90 REPORT OF THE STATE BOTATJIST. 

spikes 2-4, distant, the upper two sessile, the lowest on a short 
included stalk, densely flowered, 9"-24:" in length ; bracts leafy, 
the lowest sheathing, mostly longer than the culm ; perigynia 
oblong-ovate, smooth, prominently nerved, 3"-3|-" in length, 
gradually tapering into a long and slender bifurcate beak, the 
awn-like teeth recurved, a little longer than the ovate-lanceolate, 
hispidly awned scale; achenium elliptical, apiculate, very minutely 
papillose. 
Very rare. June. Jefferson county. 

Staminate spike solitary; pistillate spikes cylindrical, pendu- 
lous ; perigynia stipitate, lanceolate, tinely and densely nerved, 
with a slender deeply cleft beak, strongly reflexed at maturity. 

Perigynia with long, very strongly recurved teeth . . comosa. 

Perigynia with long straightish or divergent teeth . . Pseudo-Cyperus. 

110. Carex comosa Boott. 

Stems 2°-3° high, robust, erect, acutely angled, flaccid at the 
base, rough above the middle, smooth below ; leaves surpassing 
the culm, 4 "-5" broad or more, rough toward the extremities; 
staminate spike cylindrical, l^'-lf in length, subsessile or short- 
stalked, with a filiform bract mostly exceeding the culm; 
pistillate spikes 3-5, l'-24' long, 5"-7" wide, compactly flowered, 
the upper two, or sometimes three, approximate, the lowest dis- 
tant or remote, all on slender pendulous peduncles, frequently 
sterile at the apex ; bracts leafy, sheathless, surpassing the 
culm ; perigynia stipitate, lanceolate, densely nerved, gradually 
tapering into a long, slender bifurcate beak, the awn-like teeth 
strongly recurved ; perigynia reflexed at maturity ; scale lanceo- 
late, bristle-tipped, a little shorter than the perigynium. 

Shores and wet places. Common. July, August. 

The strongly recurved teeth of the reflexed perigynia, the 
former as conspicuous at the time of flowering as at maturity, 
are characteristic of this species, which is closely allied to the 
next following one, of which, by some, it is considered a variety. 

111. Carex Pseudo-Cyperus L. 
Stems 2°-3° high, stout, sharply angleti, smooth below the 
spikes, slightly flaccid at the base ; leaves rough, 2"-4" wide, 
much sur[)assing the culm ; staminate spike cylindrical, lJ'-2^' in 



BEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 91 

length, short-peduncled, with a filiform bract one-half the length 
of the spike or more; pistillate spikes 2-5, compactly flowered, 
exactly cylindrical, 2'-3' in length, usually one or more compound 
at the base and sometimes sterile at the apex, the upper ones 
mostly approximate and the lowest distant, all pendulous on fili- 
form ])ed uncles ^'-2' long; bracts leaf-like, sheathless, rough on 
both surfaces, much surpassing the culm; perigynia triangular- 
lanceolate, prominently nerved, smooth, stallied, gradually 
tapering into a short forked beak, the sharp teeth straight or 
spreading ; scale lanceolate, rough-awned, about the length of the 
perigynia which are strongly reflexed at maturity. 

Shores and wet places. Common. July, August. 

Closely like the preceding when mature, but the spikes are 
more evenly cylindrical, and the teeth of the perigynia less 
fSpreading, and not so strongly recurved. Also, in its early stage 
it has been contounded with the next following species, which it 
resembles, but its longer spikes and peduncles should distinguish it. 

Perigynia much inflated. 

Staminate spike single (rarely 2), stalked, sometimes fertile at 
the summit or base; pistillate spikes 1-i, appro.ximate, or the 
lowest distant and spreading, the upper subsessile and suberect or 
all on short stalks, spreading or drooping, densely flowered, 
squarrose. 

Pistillate spikes erect, 3" wide, perigynia 8-nerved . . . Baileyi. 

Pistillate spikes 6" wide, perigynia 10-nerved tentaculata. 

Pistillate spikes 5"-6 " wide, the lower drooping hystricina. 

112 Carex hystricina Muhl. 
Stems 15-24' high, erect, acutely angled, rough above the 
middle or near the summit, smooth and flaccid at the base ; leaves 
mostly surpassing the culm, 1 V-Z" wide, rough above the middle 
and on the margins ; staminate spike single (rarely 2), cylindrical, 
l'-2' long, mostly short-peduncled, light brown ; pistillate spikes 
2- 3, oblong or cylindrical, densely flowered, f'-ll' long, the 
lowest often with 1 or 2 short branches at the base, approximate, 
the uppermost subsessile and spreading, the others on short nod- 
ding peduncles ; bracts leaf-like, with obsolete sheaths, much 
surpassing the culm; or the highest often filiform and about 
equaling it ; perigynia ovoid or ovate-lanceolate, smooth, many- 



92 KEPOBT OF THS STATE BOTAinSr. 

nerved, gradually tapering into a long, sharply toothed beak; scale, 
ovate-lanceolate, rough-awned, shorter than the widely divergent 
or horizontally spreading perigynia. 

Wet places. Very common. June, July. 

This species may be distinguished from the next by its longer- 
stalked drooping spikes and by its smaller, many-nerved peri- 
gynia. In cold, springy, sterile soil a small form occurs with 
only one or two fertile spikes which are erect and nearly sessile. 
The scales of the sterile spikes of this species and C. Pseudo- 
Cyperus are strikingly alike. 

113. Carex tentaculata, 3Iuhl, 

Stems 18'-30' high, erect or spreading, acutely angled above 
the middle, rough at the summit, mostly smooth below ; leaves 
l}r"-3" wide, rough, longer than the culm ; staminate spike linear, 
very rarely with an additional short spike at its base, H'-2y 
long, short-peduncled ; pistillate spikes 2-4, compactly flowered, 
ovoid-cylindrical, I'-li^' long, the upper two contiguous, sessile 
or nearly so, erect or divergent, the others approximate or the 
lowest sometimes remote on a short stalk, horizontally spreading ; 
bracts leaf-like, far surpassing the culm ; perigynia turgid-ovoid, 
thin, about lO-nerved, widely divergent when mature, tapering 
into a long, slender, roughly-toothed beak, about twice the length 
of the linear-lanceolate, rough-awned scale; achenium ovoid, 
minutely papillose, with a long curved persistent style. 

"Wet places. Very common. June, July. 

This species may be identified by the short-stalked, horizontally- 
spreading lowest s|)ike, and by the spreading, slender beaks of 
the perigynia, which give to the spikes a coarse, comose appear, 
ance. The name ('. lurida, Wa/iL, is applied to this plant in the 
last edition of the Manual. Ilarely the staminate spike is fertile 
at the apex. 

Var. Ilaccida {Baileij). Smaller, with 2,-i loosely flowered, 
approximate, sessile spikes 1' long or less ; the fruit longer than 
in the type and less abruptly contracted into the beak; the 
spikes of a dull or reddish-brown color 

Var. parvula Paine. A diminutive form 5'-10' high with one 
or two globose or ovoid sessile densely flowered reddish brown 
spikes. 



BKPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 93 

C. tentaculata X lupulina {Bailey.). Resembles C. lupulina, 
but is every way smaller ; staminate spike stalked, pistillate 
spikes approximate, sessile, erect-spreading, dull yellowish or 
greenish ; perigynia turgid-ovate, about 15-nerved, the long 
slender beaks widely divergent; scales with long rough awns 
shorter than the perigynia. 

In a meadow bog in Poestenkill with the above-named species 
and C. hystricina, the latter being the most abundant. 

114. Carex Baileyi Britton. 

Stems 19-20' high, slender, erect, acutely angled, smooth or 
rough near the spikes ; leaves I'-li" wide, rough, longer than the 
culm; staminate spike linear, ^'-1' long, short-stalked or sessile; 
pistillate spikes 1-3, compactly flowered, ovoid or exactly cylin- 
drical, i'-li' in length, 2"-3" thick, rigidly erect, sessile, or the 
loAvest subsessile ; bracts leaf -like, sheathless, far surpassing the 
culm ; perigynia turgid-globular, about eight-nerved, evenly 
divergent, very abruptly contracted with a long, slender biden- 
tate beak, a little exceeding the long, rough-awned scale ; achen- 
ium triangular-elliptical, tapering to each end, minutely papillose, 
with a strongly curved style. (C. tentaculata var. gracilis Boott. 
C. lurida var. gracilis Bailey.) 

Swamps and wet places. Adirondack mountains. July. 

This slender handsome species bears but a slight resemblance 
to the preceding, of which it was long ago made a variety by 
Dr. Boott ; nor have intermediate forms been found which might 
possibly connect it with that species. On the other hand, it has, 
since it was first discovered, maintained its perfect identity as a 
mountain-loving species. It does not appear to descend into the 
lower regions, where the other species is so common. Even 
dwarf forms of the allied species have their fertile spikes thicker 
than those of the most luxuriant forms of this, and the two main- 
tain their distinctive characters when growing side by side and 
under similar conditions. The name C. montamans was given to 
this species in the manuscript of this Report, but owing to the 
delay in its publication it becomes necessary to substitute for it 
the earlier published name of Prof. Britton. 

Pistillate spikes 9"-12" broad, erect on stiff peduncles or the 
upper sessile; bracts prominently sheathing; perigynia 6" long 
and 2" broad, ascending. Spikes hop-like in appearance. 



94 HEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

Pistillate spikes r-2' long, achenia without prominent 

mamraillate angles lupulina. 

Pistillate spikes 2'-3' long, achenia distinctly mammil- 

late on the angles lupulif ormis. 

115. Carex lupulina Mahl. 

Stoloniferous ; stems 2°-3° high, erect, robust, acutely angled, 
smooth ; leaves 3"-6" broad or more, smooth, rough-mar- 
gined, conspicuously nodose, reticulated on the upper surface, 
much surpassing the culm ; staminate spike single (rarely 
two), cylindrical, l'-3' in length on a peduncle ^'-1^' long; 
pistillate spikes 2-0, closely flowered, i'-2' long, 8"-10" broad, 
the upper ones approximate, short-stalked or sessile, the others 
somewhat scattered and longer peduncled,or sometimes all sessile 
or nearly so, the lowest usually on a stalk i'-l^' long ; bracts 
leaf like, prominently sheathing, mu3h surpassing the culm; peri- 
gynia ovate-lanceolate, conspicuously stipitate, prominently 
nerved, thin, G"-9" long, erect-spreading, gradually tapering into 
a long bidentate beak, nearly twice the length of the lanceolate, 
awn-pointed scale; acheniura triquetrous, sharply angled, stipitate, 
about 1^" long, scarcely 1" broad, tapering each way from the 
middle, the apex continuous with the persistent tortuous base of 
the style. 

Swamps and water holes. Common. July. 

Var. podunculxta Dew. Differs in its more scattered promi- 
nently peduncled sjiikes, its usually long-stalked sterile spike and 
the more divergent perigynia. 

C. lu})ulina x retrorsa Dudley. Perigynia straw-colored, hori- 
zontally spreading ; scale acute or short-awned. 

116. Carex lupulif ormis Sartwell. 
Stems 2°-3° high, stout, smooth, usually stoloniferous ; leaves 
longer than the culm, 3"-G" wide, smooth, rough-margined ; 
staminate spike clavate, 1 J '-3' long, often long-stalked ; pistillate 
spikes 2-5, mostl)' 4, cylindrical, closel\' flowered, the upper 3 
contiguous, sessile, the others shortpeduncled, the lowest distant 
or remote on an e.xserted stalk ^'-1' in length, all erect and stiff, 
2'-3' long, 9"-I2'' broad or more; bracts foliacoous, sheathing, 
far surpassing the culm ; perigynia ovate-acuminate, 5"-'J " long, 
much inflated, strongly nerved, thin, more or less spreading 



E^IPOKT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 95 

tapering from a stalked base into a long cylindrical, bidentate 
beak, about twice the length of the ovate-lanceolate, pointed or 
rough-awned scale ; achenium nearly as broad as long, with a 
mammillate protuberance on each angle, and a long curved style. 
(C. lupulina var. polystachya Schw. and Torr.) 

Marshes. Rare. Yates and Putnam counties. July. 

The long spikes and peculiar achenia characterize this species. 

Perigynia moderately or much inflated, ascending, divergent 

or deflexed. 

Staminate spike single (rarely 2), clavate, stalked or sessile, 
rarely androgynous; pistillate spikes 1-5, globose, oblong or 
short cylindrical, sometimes sterile at the apex, compactly sub- 
densely or alternately flowered, sessile or peduncled, erect or 
spreading, the upper contiguous or approximate, the others dis- 
tinct or scattered or all scattered, green or yello-vish-green at 
maturity ; bracts leaf-like, with conspicuous or obsolete sheaths, 
erect or divaricate, longer than the culm ; perigynia ovoid, lan- 
ceolate or awl shaped, nerved, mostly smooth with a short notched 
or long bifurcate beak. 

Spikes short-cylindrical, leaves involute extensa. 

Spikes globose or ovoid, distant, bracts sheathing 1 

Spikes globose or oblong, contiguous above, bracts 

obsolete * 

1 Spikes 4-8, distant, perigynia awl-shaped .'. . Collinsii. 

1 Spikes subdensely or densely flowered, perigynia not 

awl-shaped ' 

3 Leaves 2"-6" wide folliculata. 

3 Leaves about 1" wide Michauxiana. 

2 Spikes 3-8-flowered, leaves involute oligosptrma. 

2 Spikes more than 8-flowered, leaves not involute 4 

4 Perigynia deflexed when mature, its beak bent flava. 

4 Perigynia with a straight beak 6 

5 Perigynia small, with a short, minutely notched beak . . ffideri. 

5 Perigynia much inflated, b"-8" long 6 

6 Spikes 15-30 flowered, perigynia 25-30 nerved Grayii. 

6 Spikes 3-12 flowered, perigynia 15-20 nerved intumescens. 

117 Carex Grayii Carey. 
Stems 12-30' high, stout, acutely angled above, smooth; 
leaves surpassing the cubn, is'-S " wide, rough, light green ; stam- 



96 EKPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

inate spike linear or sub-clavate, 1' long, often inconspicuous, 
sessile or shortpeduncled ; pistillate spikes 1-3, usually 2, densely 
flowered, globular, contiguous or subdistant tbe uppermost ses- 
sile, the lower shortpeduncled, erect, fi'-Q" thick ; bracts leafy, 
longer than the culm ; perigynia turgid-ovate or ovoid, 25-30 
nerved, G"-9 " long, smooth, widely spreading and deflexed, taper- 
ing into a long bidentate_ beak, about twice the length of the 
broadly ovate, acute scale. 

Wet places in the central and western part of the State, rare 
in the eastern part. July. 

The large yellowish-green spikes, mostly contiguous and of a 
bur-like aspect, sufficiently mark this tine species. It is related 
to the next following species to which it has sometimes been sub- 
joined as a variety. It is C. AsaGrayi Bailey. 

Var. hispidula G-ray. Perigynia hispidly -pubescent. Greene 
county. 

118 Carex intumescens Rmlge. 

Stems 15-30' high, slender, erect, acutely angled, smooth be- 
low the middle, sometimes with a few short stolons ; leaves 
l^"-3" broad, rough, longer than the culm, dark green ; staminate 
spike cylindrical, |'-2' in length, subsessile or on a stalk i'-iy 
long ; pistillate spikes 1-3, 5-10 loosely or subdensely flowered 
(rarely 1-3 flowered), globular, contiguous or approximate, ses- 
sile or the lowest on a short stalk 3"-6" in length, dark green, 
often becoming blackish in drying; bracts leafy, sheathless, 
much surpassing the culm ; perigynia turgid-ovoid, 15-20 nerved, 
widely spreading, tapering into a long, smooth or roughish bi- 
dentate beak, about twice longer thau the oblong-ovate cuspi- 
date scale. 

Wet places in fields or woods. Very common. June, July. 

This species has more slender culms, darker foliage, fewer 
flowered spikes and fewer nerved perigynia than C. Grayii, to 
which it is closely related. It is quite variable. In shaded 
places there is a very slender form with one to three perigynia 
in a spike; also in open places there is a very slender form with 
two to three scattered spikes having one to five rather small 
perigynia in each. These sometimes assume a reddish-brown 
polor even before maturity. 



EKPOBT OF THE 8TATB BOTANIST. 97 

119. Carex folliculata L. 

Stems 1 5-30' high, slender, erect, smooth ; leaves 2"-6" wide, 
rough beneath, the lowest short and long-sheathing, the upper 
surpassing the culm; staminate spike small and often inconspicu- 
ous, y long or more, sessile or short-peduncled ; pistillate spikes 
3-4, 10-20 subloosel}' flowered, globose-ovoid, 5''-8" broad, 
approximate, distant or remote, the uppermost sessile, the lower 
on exserted peduncles i'-l' long, all erect, green or tawny ; 
bracts leafy, sheathing, longer than the culm ; perigynia ovate- 
lanceolate, many-nerved, inflated, smooth, widely spreading, 
gradually tapering into a short bidentate beak, longer than the 
ovate rough-awned, white scale. 

Swamps and wet places. Common. June, July. 

The species is easily recognized by its short, lower stem leaves, 

and by its usually distant green or yellowish, subglobose spikes. 

On the sand plains west of Rome and in sphagnous marshes of 

the Adirondack region a short form occurs, having the pistillate 

spikes approximate, four of them being included in a space 

of ^'-^'. 

120. Carex Michauxiana Bieckl. 

Stems 10'-20' high, stiff, smooth ; leaves exceeding the culm, 
1"-1^" wide, rough or sometimes smooth below the middle, 
yellowish-green ; staminate spikes 3"-6" long, sessile, mostly 
inconspicuous; pistillate spikes 1-3, densely flowered, globose- 
ovoid, the upper contiguous and sessile, the lowest distant or 
remote on an exserted peduncle I'-V long, yellowish-green ; 
bracts leafy, sheathing, longer than the culm ; perigynia lanceo- 
late, numerously nerved, inflated, smooth, erect, spreading or 
widely divergent, tapering into a short, slender bidentate beak, 
twice longer than the oblong, obtuse, light-brown scale. 
(C. rostrata M.c., C. Michauxii Schw.) 

Swamps and bogs. Adirondack region. July. 

More slender than the last ; spikes fewer, more densely 
flowered, with the perigynia shorter and more slender, and the 
scale much smaller and awnless. An occasional form has the 
lowest spike on a peduncle five or six inches long. 

121. Carex CoUinsii Nutt. 
Stems 6'-20' high or more, slender, erect, rough above the 
middle : basal bracts purple ; leaves exceeding the culm, 1"-!^" 

13 



98 EKPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

wide, rough, bright green ; staminate spike linear, 3 " long ^" 
wide, sessile; pistillate spikes 2-4, distant, sessile or the lowest 
on a short exserted peduncle, all erect, 4-8 loosely flowered, 
green ; bracts leafy sheathing, longer than the culm ; perigynia 
awl-shaped, finely nerved, smooth, slightly inflated, 6" long, 
reflexed, with a long, slender, deeply cleft beak, the awn-like 
teeth deflexed at maturity ; scale lanceolate, cuspidate, less than 
half the length of the perigynium. (C. subulata Mx.) 

Swamps and wet places. Very rare. Long Island and Rich- 
mond county. June, July. 

122. Carex oligosperma JTx. 

Stems 15'- 30' high, slender, erect or somewhat spreading, 
slightly rough on the acute angles above ; leaves as long as the 
culm, 1" wide, becoming involute, smooth or rough-margined ; 
staminate spikes 1 or )i, clavate, J'-l|^' long, on stalks }'-!' in 
length ; pistillate spikes 1-2, globular or ovoid, 3-8 flowered, 
subdistant, the uppermost sessile, the lowest usually short-stalked, 
sometimes half staminate; bracts leaf-like, sheathless, shorter or 
longer than the culm; perigynia turgid ovate, 2"-2|-"long, ly wide, 
prominently nerved, ascending, contracted into a short slender 
bidentate beak, longer than the ovate obtuse brown scale. 

Bogs and marshes. Northern part of the State. July, 
August. 

Conspicuously marked by its tall slender stems, involute leaves 
and few flowered, ovoid spikes. 

123. Carex flava L. 
Stems l°-2° high, erect, smootli ; leaves shorter than the culm, 
l"-\y wide, mostly smooth, yellowish-green; staminate spike 
subclavate, about ^ long, sessileor short-stalked, erect or obl.que, 
sometimes small and inconspicuous ; pistillate spikes 1- 4, ovoid 
or globular, corai)actly flowered, aggregated and sessile or the 
lowest subdistant and short-peduncled, yellowish-green or fulvous ; 
bracts leaf-like, sheathless. divaricate, longer than the culm; 
perigynia turgid-ovate, prominently nerved, smooth, ta])eri'ig 
into a long, slender bent or recurved bidentate beak, strongly 
reflexed at maturity ; scale oblong-ovate acute or obtusisb, brown, 
much shorter than the periirvnium ; achenium short, triangular, 
obovate, apiculate, blackish-brown. 



BEPOBT OF THK STATE BOTANIST. 89 

Bogs shores and wet places. Very common and variable. 
June to Auguit. 

A form sometimes occurs in which the staminate spike is fer- 
tile at the apex. 

Var. graminis Bailey. Differs rrom the type in its much smaller 
size, longer leaves which exceed the culm, its mostly erect bracts, 
and in its smaller, usually straiglit perigynia. The beaks are 
deeply cleft as in the type and occasionally slightly rough. 

This variety is not rare in the Adirondack region. 

Var. fertilis Peck n. var. Stems 15'-20' high, firm and erect, 
smooth; leaves iy-2" wide ; staminate spike invisible; pistillate 
spikes 4-5, ovoid or short-oblong, 5"-6 " long, Z" wide, compactly 
flowered, the upper 3 aggregated, sessile, the lowest subdistant on 
a partly included stalk 3"-5" in length ; bracts short-sheathed, 
divaricate and recurved, .3'-S' long, or the upper sometimes 
setaceous ; perigynia yellowish-green with long rough beaks, a 
little longer than the oblong, acute deep brown scale. 

Low moist ground. Dutchess county. June. 

The staminate spike is apparently almost or wholly fertile. 

124. Carex CEderi Ehrh. 

Stems 5'-20' high, slender, smooth ; leaves mostly exceeding 
the culm, 1" wide or more, smooth, yellowish green, fading to 
fulvous when old ; staminate spike 3"-9" long, often androgynous, 
sessile ; pistillate spikes 2-i, ovoid or short cylmdrical, 3"-S" long, 
densely llowered, aggregated, or the lowest subdistant, all sessile 
and erect, sometimes 1 or 2 prolilerously branched at the base, 
yellowish- green ; bracts Jeaf-like, erect, longer than the culm, or 
the upper sometimes setaceous: perigynia obovoid, straight, 
prominently nerved, divergent or ascending, contracted into a 
short bifid or slightly notched smooth beak, longer than the ovate 
acute thin brown scalf ; achenium triangular, obovate, apiculate, 
sharply angled, blackish-brown. 

Wet places. Common, especially in the western part of the 
State. July, August. 

This is easily separated from C. flava, to which it is closely 
allied, by its much smaller spikes and smaller perigynia with a 
shorter, straight, smooth, slightly notched beak. In the last edi- 
tion of the Manual it is referred to C. flava as Var. viridula 
Bailey. 



100 BEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

125. Carex extensa Good. 

Steins l°-2° high, slender but strict, smooth ; leaves shorter 
than the culm or sometimes surpassing it, involute, smooth ; 
stamiaate spike clavate, S"-10" long, subsessile; pistillate spikes 
densely flowered, ovoid or short cylindrical, 4"-y" long, 2^"-3" 
wide ; the upper ones approximate, sessile, the lowest remote on 
a short partly included stalk ; bracts like the leaves or the upper- 
most often setaceous, the lowest sheathing, surpassing the culm; 
perigynia ovate, prominently nerved, ascending or widely diver- 
gent, gradually tapering into a short bifid beak, longer than the 
ovate acute or obtuse macronate deep-brown scale ; aclienium 
elliptical, substipitate. 

Introduced and local. Coney Island and Long Island. 

Distinguished from the last by its stiff involute leaves, less 
approximate spikes and larger, firmer perig\^nia. 

Spikes 1-4, the upper half or more of the terminal one fertile, 
sterile below, the others fertile, densely flowered ; perigynia long- 
beaked, squarrose at maturity. 

126. Carex squarrosa L. 

Stems li^°-3'' high, stiff and erect, acutely angled, smooth ; 
leaves sur[)assing the culm, U"-*" wide, lax and spreading, 
smooth, or rough above the middle ; spikes 1-4, ovoid or cylin- 
drical, densely flowered, 6"-12" long, 4"-tj" wide, usually approxi- 
mate, short-peduncled, or the lowest on a stiff stalk ^'-1' 
long, all erect, the terminal one pistillate above, stami- 
nate below; bracts leafy, longer than the culm, or the upper- 
most sometimes not exceeding its spike; perigynia turgid, 
obovoid, lightly few nerved, thin and papery, abruptly con- 
tracted into a long slender bifid beak as long as the body, 
the teeth short and thin, horizontally spreading at maturity; 
scale lanceolate, mostly concealed by the crowded perigynia ; 
achenium elliptical. 

Moist meadows and swales. Common. June, July. 

This is a very distinct and peculiar species not closely related 
to any other in our limits. 

Forma robusta Pec^. Stouter, leaves firmer, mostly erect; 
spikes 8"-! 2" long, 6"-7" wide, 2' apart, the lowest on a slender 
drooping pedundcle 2' long. 



HEPOBT OF THB STATE B0TABI8T. 101 

Staminate spikes 1-i, short or long-stalked, often pistillate at 
the base or apex ; pistillate spikes 1-5, cylindrical, usually densely 
flowered, the upper approximate (clustered in 127), sessile or 
short-stalked, erect or spreading, the lower sometimes drooping, 
or all distant, short stalked or sessile, erect or ascending, some- 
times sterile at the apex, straw-colored or tawny ; bracts like the 
leaves, the lower sometimes sheathing, equaling or surpassing 
the culm ; perigynia ovate or globular-ovoid, much inflated, 
nerved or nerveless, ascending or spreading (reflexed in 127) 
shining, with a prominent bidentate beak. (Spikes pendulous, 
loosely flowered and perigynia globular with a needle-shaped 
beak in 133.) 

Perigynia large, l^"-3" wide 1 

Perigynia small, less th in 1^" wide 2 

1 Pistillate spikes 2 or more, ascending Tuckermani. 

1 Pistillate spikes 1 or 2, perigynia widely spreading. . . buliata. 

2 Pistillate spikes less than 4" wido 3 

2 Pistillate spikes 4" wide or more 4 

8 Spikes erect or spreading monile. 

3 Spikes drooping longirostris. 

4 Spikes contiguous, perigynia reflexed retrorsa. 

4 Spikes approximate or distant, perigynia not reflexed, 6 

5 Spikes distant utriculata. 

5 Spikes approximate or the lowest enly distant Schweinitzii. 

127. Carex retrorsa Sc/iw. 

Stems densely clustered, 2^-3° high, firm and erect, smooth 
with obtuse angles ; leaves much longer than the culm, 1^ "-4" 
wide, rough, bright green ; staminate spikes 1-3, often slightly 
pistillate above or at the base, cj'lindric.il, l'-2' long; pistillate 
spikes 3-5, densely flowered, cylindrical, l'-2' long or more, 4"-5" 
thick, the upper contiguous and erect on short included stalks, the 
lowest sometimes distant or remote on a short or long partly 
drooping peduncle, one or more often compound at the base; bracts 
leaf-like, short-sheathing, or sometimes the uppermost filiform, all 
much surpassing the culm ; perigynia ovoid, prominently few- 
nerved, thin, strongl}'^ reflexed, tapering into a long bidentate 
beak ; scale short lanceolate, usually invisibl 

Wet places and water holes. Common. June, July. 



102 BKPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

Readily identified by the clustered spikes and reflexed 
perigynia. 

Var. Ilartii Gray. Slender; fertile spikes more or less dis- 
tant, stalked, loosely flowered ; perigynia slightly reflexed. (C. 
Hartii Dew.) This is regarded by Prof. Britton as a distinct 
species. 

128. Carex Tuckermani Dero. 

Stems l^°-3° high, stout, the acute angles rough ; leaves rough, 
lJ"-2" wide, exceeding the culm; staminate spikes 1-3, cylin- 
drical, I'-l^' long, on a stalk ^'-1' in length, the lowest some- 
times with a few pistillate flowers at its base; pistillate spikes 
2-4, densely flowered, oblong or cj'lindrical, |'-2' in length, -i'-G" 
thick, rather distant, the uppermost sessile, erect spreading, the 
remainder peduncled, the lowest sometimes remote and droop- 
ing ; bracts leaf like, sheathless, longer than the culm ; perigynia 
large, ovate, prominently nerved, thin, 4^"-5" long, 2\"-'A" thick, 
contracted into a slender bidentate beak, twice the length of the 
lanceolate acute or pointed scale. 

Wet places in shaded stations or open fields. Common. June, 
July. 

The rather short thick spikes and the large ovate shining peri- 
gynia are characteristic of this species. When very young the 
perigynia of this species and of C. intumescens, C. Grayii and 
some others with inflated perigynia are very pale or almost 
white. 

129. Carex buUata Schk. 

Stems l°-2° high, slender, erect, acutely angled, rough above, 
smooth below the middle, dark purple and fibrillose at the base; 
leaves smooth or roughish, stifl', mostly erect, 1"-H" wide, about 
the length of the culm ; staminate spikes 2-3, cylindrical or sub- 
clavate, i'-l^' in length on stalks O'-'.t " long ; pistillate spikes 
1-2, densely flowered, G"-9" (rarely 1) long, Z"-t>" thick, sessile 
and erect, or, when 2, approximate or remote, the uppermost 
short-stalked or sessile, the lowest on a slender peduncle 1' long 
or less, erect or slightly spreading ; bracts leafy with obsolete 
sheaths, usually exceeding the culm ; perigynia ovate, much in- 
flated, nerved, thick, shining, widely divergent, tapering into a 
long, smooth or minutely roughened, bidentate beak, longer than 
the lanceolate acute or obtuse scale. 



KEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 103 

A very rare species but one well marked by its 1-2 short thick 
spikes, and its large shining widely divergent perigynia. No 
specimens of it are in the State Herbarium, but it is said to occur 
in Westchester county and in the valley of the Mohawk. 

130. Carex monile Tuckm. 

Stems 2°-3° high, slender, erect, rough on the acute angles 
above the middle; leaves longer than the culm, l^"-2^'' wide, 
rough at the top and on the margins, lax and somewhat spread- 
ing ; staminate spikes 2-4, cylindrical or clavate, I'-l^' in length, 
usually on a stalk 1' long; pistillate spikes 1-3, densely 
flowered, cylindrical, 1-2^' long, Z"-i" thick, scattered, the 
upper ones sessile and erect or erect-spreading, the lowest on a 
slender spreading stalk ^-1' in length, or sometimes sessile and 
erect ; bracts leaf-like, with obsolete sheaths, far surpassing the 
culm; perigynia globose-ovate, much inflated, thin and papery, 
nerved, somewhat divergent, gradually tapering into a long 
bidentate beak, about twice the length of the acute or pointed 
scale. 

Wet places, margins of streams, etc. Common. July. 

It may be known by the slender stems and lax leaves, and by 
the 2-3 distant or remote, mostly erect, narrow, densely flowered 
spikes, and the globose thin shining perigynia. Forms some- 
times occur with a single pistillate spike, and such forms having 
the spike unusually thick might easily be mistaken for C. bullata. 
The species is very common in the Adirondack region. 

131. Carex utriculata Boott. 
Stems 2°-4° high, stout, acutely angled above the leaves, smooth, 
flaccid, conspicuously reticulated below the middle; leaves sur- 
passing the culm, 3"-5" broad, nodulose-roughened, dark green ; 
staminate spikes 3-4, the terminal one short-stalked, the others 
sessile, i'-3' in length, the lowest with a slender bract exceeding its 
spike; pistillate spikes 2-5, densely flowered, sometimes one or 
more staminate at the apex, cylindrical, U'-4' long, 4"-6" thick, 
scattered, the upper sessile, the lower short-stalked, all erect or 
nearly to ; bracts leafy, the lowest short-sheathing, far surpass- 
ing the culm ; perigynia, small, turgid-ovate, of a thick texture, 
few-nerved, divergent, abruptly contracted into a cylindrical, 



104 EEPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

sharply-toothed beak, longer than the lanceolate acute or awned 
scale. 

Swamps, bogs and margins of streams. Common. June, July. 

The spikes are longer than in the last species, the perigynia 
are smaller and firmer. The species may be recognized by the 
nodose-netted stems and leaves. It is common in the Adirondack 
region where there are small forms, Var. minor Boott, with 
spikes scarcely more than I'-l^' long. 

132. Carex Schweinitzii Dew. 

Stoloniferous ; stems l°-2° high, erect, rough on the acute 
angles ; leaves longer than the culm, l^"-3" broad or more, 
rough, yellowish-green; staminate spikes 1-2, clavate, 9"-12'' 
long on peduncles ^-1' in length; pistillate spikes 3-4, densely 
flowered, often loosely at the base, and sometimes compound, 
occasionally staminate at the apex, cylindrical, l'-2' long or 
more, 3"-4" thick, approximate, mostly on short spreading stalks, 
or sometimes the lowest remote on a filiform nodding peduncle 
2'-21' long bracts leaf -like, short-sheathing or not sheathing, 
longer than the culm ; perigynia small, turgid-ovoid, few-nerved, 
thin, divergent, gradually tapering into a slender bidentate beak, 
nearly twice the length of the rou<jh-awned scale. 

Swamps and borders of streams. Oneida and Herkimer coun- 
ties. Apparently rare or wanting elsewhere. June. 

133. Carex longirostris lorr. 

Stems 20'-30' high, slender, erect, smooth ; leaves shorter than 
the culm, 1^-2" wide, rough, light or glaucous green ; staminate 
spikes 2-3, clavate, ^'-1' long, short-pednncled, yellowish-white; 
pistillate spikes 2-5, loosely llowcred, cylindrical, l'-2' long, 
distant, the uppermost short-stalked and mostly erect, sometimes 
half staminate above, the others on filiform, drooping peduncles 
li'-f!' in length; bracts leafy or the uppermost setaceous, the 
lowest barely sheathing, shorter than the culm ; peri^^ynia 
turgid -globular or globose-ovoid, 2-ribbed, nerveless, divergent, 
smooth, very abruptly contracted into a slender bifid beak longer 
than the body ; sca'e lanceolate, whitish, often with a long awn- 
likc point, equal to or a little shorter than the perigynia. 

Dry rocky places in woods or clearings. Not common. June. 

A form with spikes less than one inch long is Var. minor 
Boott. 



BEPOBT OF THE 8TATB B0TAHI8T. 105 

(F.) 
EDIBLE AND POISOlSrOUS FUNGI OF NEW YOKK. 

The figures and descriptions of the '■ Edible and Poisonous 
Fungi of New York " here giren have been prepared with a 
view to meet a growing and popular demand for information, 
concerning a much-neglected department of economic botany, 
and to facilitate and encourage a more general acquisition of a 
knowledge of the natural food products of our State. Many 
who would gladly avail themselves of the agreeable and highly 
nutritious food afforded by our edible fungi are debarred from 
doing so by a lack of the knowledge necessary for a proper dis- 
crimination between the edible and the poisonous or worthless 
species. With this knowledge, the fear of the bad would no 
longer prevent the use of the good. With it many whose cir- 
cumstances are such as to make it difficult or impossible to pro- 
cure an adequate supply of animal food might often obtain a 
very good substitute for it by the slight labor of gathering it in 
the fields and woods. 

European works on this subject are less satisfactory, because 
the species in this country are not wholly the same as in that. 
Some of them are not readily procurable because of their high 
price, others and cheaper ones are less desirable because of 
deficiency in the number or the character of their illustrations. 
It has been the purpose of the writer in his attempt to elucidate 
this subject to be satisfactorily profuse in illustrations. The plates 
are of such dimensions as to admit of figures of natural size in 
all except a single species. Whenever it was necessarj^ a whole 
plate has been devoted to a single species. In nearly all cases the 
appearance of the young as well as of the mature plant has been 
shown, and in several instances well-marked varieties have also been 
illustrated. For the benefit of the botanical student the spores 
of each species have been figured, magnified to a uniform scale 
of four hundred diameters. A compound microscope and a 
micrometer are necessary to ascertain the shape and size of the 
spore. 

Of each species a brief diagnosis or botanical description is 
first given for the use of botanists. This is followed by a more 
full description in plain and simple language which may readily 
14 



106 KEPOET OF THE 8TATK BOTANIST. 

be comprehended by the general reader. This description has 
been made as concise as was compatible with completeness and 
with the avoidance of technical terms. It is supplemented by a 
statement of the usual dimensions of the plant, its habitat or 
usual place of growth, its time of appearance, its qualities as an 
esculont and its relations or resemblances to other species. 

Sixty-three edible species have been figured on thirty-nine 
plates, three poisonous ones on three plates and one unwholesome 
one on one plate. Of the sixty-three edible species, about forty 
have been tested as to their edible qualities by the writer. Of 
the remainder, all save four have been eaten without harm by 
some of his acquaintances or correspondents. The four unprovtd 
species have been recorded as edible by various writers and no 
word of suspicion has ever been raised against them, so that it 
may be asserted most confidentl}' that no species here represented 
as edible is at all dangerous or deleterious if used with modera- 
tion and after proper selection and preparation. All the species 
are not equally sapid, tender or desirable, but any of them may 
be eaten with perfect safety, if collected in good condition and 
eaten in reasonable quantity. Nine of these sjiecies were first 
published as edible in the State Museum reports, seven having 
been proved by the writer, two by his friends. 

Other species belonging to our llora have been classed as 
edible by various writers, but they are not included in the present 
work, bi'causo opportunity has not j'et been found for a personal 
trial of their edible (pialities or for making accurate figures of 
them. It is to bo hoped that in due time it may be possible to 
include them in a supplementary publication which shall com- 
plete this work. 

That there are dangerous species whose use as food should be 
most carefully avoided is an acknowledged fact, but the number 
of such species is far less than many suppose. According to the 
authority of those who have especially investigated tliis subject, 
the dangerously poisonous species found in this country all 
belong to a single genus, Amanita. About a dozen species of 
this genus have been found in our State, and of these, two are 
known to be harmless and edible, three or four only are 
commonl}'^ classeil as jjoisonous, and probably a single one of 
these is responsible for a vast majority of the fatal accidents 



BEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 



107 



resulting from "mushroom poisoning." There are, however, 
some species in other genera that are capable of causing nausea, 
vomiting and derangement of the digestive organs. They are 
unwholesome because of their persistentl}^ bitter, acrid or other- 
wise disagreeable flavor, or because of toughness of texture or 
the possession of some quality rejiugnant to the stomach. They 
may indeed cause sickness and vomiting, but the irritation they 
induce is soon apparent and quickly causes the rejection from the 
system of the offending substance and then the normal condition 
of the system is sooq restored. Sometimes recovery in such cases 
may be hastened by the administration of some simple emetic 
which will assist the stomach in its efforts to expel the unwhole- 
some material. 

The dangerous species do not appear to possess such irritating 
qualities. The symptoms of sickness do not appear till several 
hours after eating, generally eight to fifteen. Then the face 
exhibits an ashy paleness, there is distress in the region of the 
stomach, resulting in nausea, vomiting and relaxation of the 
bowels, the extremities become cold, the pulse feeble, the sight 
affected, and finally stupor and death follow if relief is not 
obtained. To this kind of poisoning, atropine, the active 
principle of Atropa belladonna, has been found to be an antidote. 
It has been administered in doses of -^i „ to tjV of a grain accord- 
ing to the severity of the case, and the dose may be repeated if 
necessary. It should be administered in subcutaneous injections. 
For two thousand years or more people have made use of mush- 
rooms for food and from time to time death has resulted from 
their use, either through ignorance or carelessness. Still men 
persist in their use, and those who would use them if they dared 
frequently ask how they may distinguish mushrooms from toad- 
stools, the word " toadstools " indicating to them poisonous or 
harmful species. Many attempts have been made to answer this 
question and many rules have been formulated by the observance 
of which, it has been claimed, all difficulty and danger would be 
avoided. Some of these rules are entirely unreliable and to 
others there are so many exceptions that they are misleading and 
practically worthless. The rules vary according to the stand- 
point of the one proposing them. One who considers the Com- 



108 BEPOBT or THE 8TATK B0TA1SI8T. 

mon mushroom the only edible species seeks to separate it from 
all others, and says " avoid all which have white gills and a hol- 
low stem." This rule precludes the use of many mushrooms 
which are just as good as the one it sustains, and at the same 
time it is not definite enough to limit the selection to the one 
intended. Another, thinking of the Delicious lactarius which 
has an orange-colored juice, says " reject all such as have a white 
milky juice." This rule forbids the use of several species of lac- 
tarius that are no more harmful and scarcely less sapid than the 
Delicious lactarius. Again we are told by some one who has in 
mind the poisonous amanitas, to "discard all mushrooms that 
have a warty cap or a membranous sheath at the bottom of the 
stem." This would be a very good rule if we might add 
to it the sentence, unless you know the species to be edible 
and safe. The Orange mushroom, which is deemed an edible 
species of first quality, has a membranous sheath at the base 
of the stem, and the Reddish amanita has a warty cap and 
yet is not only harmless but very good, so that the rule which 
would forbid tiie use of these species excludes more than is neces- 
sary. The same may be said of those directions which require 
the rejection of all mushrooms having a viscid cap or an acrid 
taste or whose flesh on being broken quickly changes to a blue 
color. And as to the old-fashioned silver spoon test, by which it 
was thought that a silver spoon thrust among cooking mushrooms 
would be quickly tarnished if they were poisonous and remain 
bright if tliey were edible, that was long ago proved to be most 
unreliable Ij}' a fatal experiment in wliich several persons lost 
their lives because the cook put confidence it. We are, therefore, 
forced to conclude that no abstract rule is at present known by 
which the good can in every case be separated from the bad. 
Tlie only safe and reasonable way to do this is to learn to recog. 
nize each species hy its own peculiar specific characters. It is in 
this way that we recognize the useful and esculent species among 
flowering plants, and it must bo in this way that we select our 
edible mushrooms. A little more care may be necessary in one 
case than in the other, because of a closer resemblance in some 
cases between good and bad inushrDonis than between good and 
bad flowering plants. The i)rinciple that is to govern in this 



EEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 109 

matter is the same ia both cases. The greater the number 
of edible species clearly recognizable by any one the greater the 
field from which he may draw his supplies. IE he is acquainted 
with but one species he should limit his use of mushrojms to that 
one species, unless he can avail himself of the more extensive 
knowledge of some one else or unless he is willing to take the 
risk of eating some poisonous or unwholesome species. In a few 
instances it is possible to affirm of certain groups of species or of 
certaia genera, that no deleterious species are known in them. 
Thus we have in this State si.K species of morels and no morel is 
known to be poisonous. It is, therefore, possible for any one 
who is able to separate a morel from all other fungi, to eat 
morels with considerable confidence though he may not be able 
to distinguish one species of mc.rel from another. The same 
may be said of puff balls. No harmful species is known among 
them, and he who can discriminate between puff balls and all 
other fungi does not incur very much risk in eating any puff ball 
of good flavor, though he may not be able to distinguish the 
species from each other. The probability is that he will suifer 
no harm by so doing, but there is not absolute safety. It is 
possible that some rare species exists having deleterious qualities 
which have not yet been ascertained by experiment, hence the 
lack of absolute certainty; for we know by experience among 
the amanitas that excellent edible species may exist in the same 
genus with and be closely related botanically to dangerously 
poisonous species. Therefore, those rules wliich say all morels, 
all puff balls, and all fairy clubs may safely bo eaten are too 
sweeping, and would be better if modified by the words, "so far 
as known." 

Many mushrooms have a farinaceous taste or odor, or both 
taste and odor are of this character. Some have thought that all 
species having this meal like flavor are edible, and indeed many 
of them are, and no dangerously poisonous species is known to 
have it. But occasionally a species has this flavor combined with 
or followed by a bitter or otherwise disagreeable flavor which 
would at least render the mushroom undesirable if not unwhole- 
some. So that rules designed to aid in tne selection of edible 
species have their exceptions and their weak points as well as the 
rules designed to protect us against the poisonous species. There 



110 BBPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

is, therefore, no escape from the necessity of acquiring a knowl- 
edge of eacli species we would utilize, suHiL-iently clear and exact 
to enable us to distinguish it from all others. Whatever value 
investigators and experimenters, who are willing to take some 
risks for the good of others, may find in such rules or general 
principles, it is evident that they are not sufficiently definite, 
exact and reliable for general use. To any one willing to avail 
himself of the experience of others and to apply himself suffi- 
ciently to learn to recognize the species they have found to be 
edible, nature opens a Held productive of much palatable and 
nutritious food, which is too often left to decay where it grew. 

But some care is necessary in the selection of specimens of 
species known to be edible. The plants selected should be in 
good condition. AVell grown, sound, fresh specimens only should 
be chosen. Old, partly-deca3'ed, water-soaked, worm-eaten or 
withered plants should be discarded. Even young and sound 
ones should not be kept too long before they are cooked. They 
arc in some cases very perishable and deteriorate rapidly. If 
more have been collected at one time than are needed for a single 
meal it will generally be better to cook them all at once and keep 
them in a refrigerator in the cooked rather than in the raw state. 
As a rule it is better to cook them the same day they are col- 
lected. In the case of the inky fungi this will be absolutely 
necessary, for they will not keep in good condition from one day 
till the next. Some of the species literally grow up in a night and 
perish in a day. These also should be cooked with great prompt- 
ness, for they are only desirable while young and before the gills 
have begun to change to a black inky li()uid. PulT balls should 
ouly be used while the inner llosh is pure and white. AVhen the 
yellowish stains of maturity begin to ajipear they are no longer 
fit for food. No one would think of eating them after the llesh 
has changed to the cottony dusty mass of maturity. 

Manv insects are fond of mushrooms. Both they and their 
larviu feed on them and the latter often live in them. A mush- 
room may appear fair externall}', but if it is cut or broken its 
flesh may be seen to be full of holes or galleries excavated by 
larvie, and ])erhaps a colony of the larva^ themselves may be 
found within. It is needless to say that such specimens are 



BBFOBT OF THE 8TATE BOTANIST. Ill 

imfit tor food. Strange as it may seem, a colony of larvae 
in the lower part of the stem of a mushroom will some- 
times affect disastrously the flavor of the cap or upper 
part which they have not yet invaded. This fact may explain in 
part the varying opinions of different writers concerning the 
flavor and edible qualities of certain mushrooms. Slight differ- 
ences in flavor may also be attributed to differences in the char- 
acter of the soil in which they grow, the amount of moisture in 
the atmosphere, degree of temperature, age and rapidity of 
growth and to exposure to the sun and wind. Old and slowly- 
developed individuals are likely to be less tender than young and 
rapidly growing ones. Differences in individual tastes will also 
account in part for differences of opinion on this point. There 
are also peculiarities of constitution which have given origin to 
the saying, " What is one man's meat is another man's poison." 
One person can eat no egf:;, nor anything into which egg enters 
as an ingredient, without suffering or sickness. Another is made 
sick by eating strawberries, nevertheless egg and strawberries 
are not classed as poisonous. Still it is possible that some fungi 
as harmless as egg and strawberries may have been charged with 
poisonous qualities from some such accidental circumstance or 
individual peculiarity. 

In collecting mushrooms for the table it is well, in all cases in 
which the stems are too tough for food, to cut the caps from the 
stems. In this way much dirt and useless material will be left 
where it belongs, and it will be possible in many cases to ascer- 
tain if the caps have been attacked by insects. Most often the 
larvaj mine their way up from the ground through the central 
part of the stem to the cap, and by cutting the cap from the 
stem their holes or galleries are exposed to view. In but few 
species are the stems sufficiently tender to be used. Some have 
recommended that the caps be placed in the coUectmg basket in 
an inverted position, for if placed in their natural position with 
gills downward they will drop their spores and their flavor will 
be impaired. It is very doubtful if this partial loss of spores 
affects the flavor in any appreciable degree. If more than one 
species should be taken during the same excursion it would be 
well to keep them separate from each other by wrapping each 



112 BEPOKT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

species in a piece of paper by itself. This precaution is not 
necessar}' if ttie species are so distinct in color, shape or size that 
they can readily be separated from each other at home, or if they 
are so similar in flavor and texture that they may be treated 
alike in cooking without any detriment to their esculent qualities. 

Should a doubt arise at any time, concerning the identity of a 
supposed edible species, do not use such a mushroom until all 
doubt on this point has been banished. If it is thought desirable 
to compare the plant with the published figures and descviptions 
for the purpose of identifying the species, select for this purpose 
sound specimens which represent both the young and the mature 
forms, that all the specific characters may be shown. Take the 
specimens up carefully from their place of growth, removing all 
the loose dirt from the base of the stem. Wrap the specimens 
carefully in soft paper or large green leaves that they may be 
kept as fresh as possible till the time of examination. On reach- 
ing home, lose no time in making the examination for in some 
species there are evanescent characters which will not be available 
after a few hours' delay. In one family of fungi the color of the 
spores is an important character and a great aid in the identi- 
fication of species. The color of the spores in many species is 
the same as or similar to the color of the mature gills, but there 
are so many exceptions that explicit directions for ascertaining 
their color will be given in another place. 

In the preparation of mushrooms for cooking, the utmost 
cleanliness should be observed. Some have the upper surface of 
the cap covered with a sticky, viscid or glutinous substance when 
fresh This often causes bits of dirt, leaves or sticks to adhere to 
the cap tenaciously. In such cases it is generally best to remove 
this rubbish by peeling the caps. In other cases the dirt may be 
wiped away with a damp cloth or towel, or washed off and then 
the surface dried with a towel. It is also well to peel those 
having a thick tough skin. In boleti, the stratum of pores on 
the lower surface of the cap is apt to form a mucilaginous or 
slimy disagreeable mass in cooking. It is, tlierefore, well to 
remove it before cooking. It is easily separable from the cap 
and can readily be removed by pressing it outwardly from the 
stem with a knife blade. In very large thick-fleshed specimens 
it is best to cut in slices or chop in small pieces. 



EEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. lltJ 

The proper method of cooking will depend somewhat on 
the kind of mushroom, the tastes of those that are to eat 
them and the conveniences at hand. Many of them can 
be cooked in the same manner as a beefsteak. It is 
customary to cook them in a very simple manner, either 
by frying in butter or broiling gently with a little butter 
added and seasoning to taste. They may also be stewed or 
baked. The skillful cook will devise many ways of cooking them 
and various recipes will be found in cook books and in works on 
edible fungi. Too much cooking may spoil a mushroom as well 
as an oyster or a tender beefsteak. My efforts to make a tough 
mushroom tender by steaming have not been successful, but the 
experiments have not been numerous nor long continued. 
Species too tough to be eaten with pleasure or digested with 
comfort have sometimes been utilized by making of them a kind 
of soup or broth which could be eaten with relish and comfort. 
Sometimes mushrooms are used in small quantity to give flavcr 
to meats or other dishes. Those of inferior flavor are sometimes 
made more agreeable by cooking with them a few specimens of 
some more highly flavored species. The same species may vary 
in flavor according to the method of cooking and the kind of 
seasoning used as well as by reason of the circumstances previously 
mentioned. 

Mushrooms may be dried and kept for future use. The best 
method of drying them is to place them in a current of warm air. 
Dry them as quickly as possible without burning them, and keep 
the drying process in operation till completed. A common fruit 
evaporator would doubtless be a good instrument for drying 
them. The drying of thick and moist ones would be facilitated 
by cutting them in slices. 

The general opinion is that mushrooms constitute a very nutri- 
tious and sustaining diet. Chemical analysis and personal 
experience indicate this. The former has shown that in 
their dry matter they contain from twenty to fifty per cent, 
of protein or nitrogenous material. They naay, therefore, 
well be called a kind of vegetable meat and be used as 
a substitute for animal food. Like other vegetables, they are 
largely composed of water, which is from eighty to ninety 
per cent, of the whole. In consequence of this they shrink greatly 
15 



114 BKPOBT OF THE STATE BOTAHIST. 

in drying and lose much weight. The presence of so much nitro- 
genous material induces rapid decay and loathsome decomposition 
in them. It should also teach moderation in their use as food. 
A hearty meal on mushrooms alone would be about as reasonable 
as a dinner on nothing but beefsteak, and might be expected to 
be followed by similar ill consequences. Gormandizing is not 
commendable imder any circumstances nor with any kind of 
food. But especially should it be avoided in mushroom eating, 
for the human system demands but small quantities of the nitro- 
genous elements which enter into its composition. An excessive 
amount is sure to be hurtful, but eaten ia moderate quantity it is 
easily digestible, acceptable and beneficial. The digestive organs 
of the writer are not strong by nature and are easily affected by 
unfavorable treatment or indigestible substances, yet he has never 
experienced any discomfort from eating mushrooms. He has 
eaten them frequently, partaken of many different species, and 
experimented with a considerable number of species not classified 
as edible. The explanation is simple. They have always been 
eaten in moderate cjuantity. In my opinion, cases of sickness 
and digestive derangement that have been attributed to poison- 
ous properties of mushrooms are sometimes really due to the 
excessive use of species that otherwise are perfectl}' harmless. 
In some countries where edible fungi are commonly and exten- 
sively employed as food, even species which we regard as 
unwholesome are utilized. They are soaked in vinegar or in salt 
water for the purpose of destroying or rendering inert their 
noxious properties. They are then carefully washed and thrown 
into hot water for a short time, after which the}'^ are treated in 
the usual way. This ])ractice is not recommended. Aside from 
the danger arising from the inelHciency of the treatment in some 
cases, it is very improbable that any mushrooms so treated would 
still retain a very agreeable flavor. There is, besides, no need of 
running any risks with doubtful or suspected species, for tlie 
number of those known to be good and safe is suHiciently great 
to satisfy all reasonable demands. Possibly the time may yet 
come when the noxious properties of poisonous mushrooms may 
be utilized with advantage in medicine, but such species should 
not be used as food. Ho who is too ignorant to recognize with 
confidence the species known to bo good, would better abstain 



aSPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 115 

from such food entirely unless he can avail himseK of the knowl- 
edge of some one who can recognize them. 

A few edible fungi appear early in the season, but with us 
July, August and September are the months when the greatest 
variety is to be found. The morels occur in May and June. The 
Fairy-ring mushroom and the Glistening coprinus sometimes 
appear in June, and successive crops follow from time to time 
whenever the weather is favorable. During warm, showery 
weather in July and August most of our edible boleti are to be 
found. 

A few of the species continue in September. The latter part 
of August and the first half of September will bring the Common 
mushroom and the Horse mushroom, the weather conditions 
being right. Excessively dry weather and prevailing cold 
weather are unfavorable to mushroom growth. Heat and moist- 
ure combined are favorable. It sometimes happens when the 
fields and open country are too dry for mushroom growth, a 
scanty supply may be found in deep woods and shady swamps. 
It would be useless to look in such places for the Common mush- 
room and the Fairy-ring mushroom, for they do not grow in 
woods; but the Delicious lactarius, the Involute paxiUus, the 
Eough-stemmed boletus and the Chantarelle may be found there. 
The Oyster pleurotus and the Sapid pleurotus may be found in 
woods or clearings at any time between June and October, pro- 
vided there is sutlicient rain to induce growth, but the Honey- 
colored armillaria, the Imbricated tricholoma, the Masked tricho- 
loma and the Elm pleurotus will rarely be found before the last 
week in August or the first of September. Let no one expect to 
find the Granulated boletus, the Yellowish-brown boletus or the 
Small Yellowish boletus except in the immediate vicinity of pino 
trees or in places where pine trees have grown. These hints 
may be something of a guide to the inexperienced mushroom 
hunter. The dates and habitat given under the description of 
each species will furnish more full and definite information on 
this subject. 

Before proceeding to the description of species it may be well 
to explain certain technical terms it may be convenient or 
necessary to use. For illustration of some of the following terms 
see Plate A and its explanation. 



116 REPOET OP THE STATE BOTAMIST. 

The substance of a mushroom takes the name _^ffesk though it is 
quite unlike animal fljsh in texture and appearance. Most mush- 
rooms have an expanded part called the cajj botanically known as 
the 2>i7e!/.sv This is generally supported on a stem, hut in the 
aljience of a stem the cap is sessile. It varies much in shape in 
different species and even in the same species in different stages 
of development. In some mushrooms thin vertical jjlates or 
membranes radiate from the stem to the margin of the cap, or 
in the absence of a stem, from the point of attachment of the cap 
to its free margin. These are called lamellae or gills. Shorter 
ones intervene toward the margin of the cap to fill the spaces 
that would otherwise be left vacant. The gills are attached by 
their upper edge to the lower surface of the caj) and often by 
their inner extremity to the stem. They are adnate when 
attached to the stem by the whole width of their inner extremity ; 
culnexed when attached by a part of their width only ; deourrent 
when they run down on the stem, gradually tapering to a point, 
and/Ve<; when not attached to the stem. Sometimes their lower 
edge is notched or excavated at or near the stem, which fact is 
designated by the words emari/inaie or sinuate. 

In some, the lower surface of the cap is full of small holes or 
cells, called pores. These are so small in some species that they 
are scarcely noticeable but generally they are easily visible. 
They stand like tubes in a vertical i)osition, side by side, with the 
openings or mouths downward. Theoretically they may be sup- 
posed to be formed by numerous gills connected by frequent par- 
titions or transverse membranes. 

In still another group of mushrooms the lower surface of the 
cap has neither gills nor pores, but instead there are numerous 
spine-like or awlshaped projecting points called icel/i. It is very 
mu:h as if closely placed gills had been deeply, regularly and 
finely notched or gashed, but the teeth are not arranged in reg- 
ular radiating rows, as they would be if actually formed in this 
way. 

The ujiper surface of the cap is (jlahrous when it is smooth or 
free from hairs, lil)rils or scales; even when it has no pits, ridges 
or other inequalities ; silky when adorned with soft, close-pressed 
fibrils ; Jihrillose if these fibrils are harsher and looser ; floccoae 



EEPOKT OF THK STATE BOTANIST. 



117 



when they are soft, short and collected in little floes or tufts ; 
tow^ntose when crisped and interwoven so as to form a woolly- 
surface; squamose or scaly when coarse and collected in tufts, 
also when the cuticle breaks or cracks into small flakes or spot- 
like patches. These same terms are also applicable under the 
same conditions to the surface of the stem. The cai* is also said 
to be umbonate when it has a small projection or boss on its 
center; ^<s»^J^7«wfc if it has a small central cavity or umbilicus, 
and hi/gropJianous when it has a soaked or watery appearance, 
the loss of which by drying is accompanied by some change ia 
color. The margin of the cap is striate when marked by nearly 
parallel radiating lines. If these lines are very slight or are 
visible only in the moist or hygrophanous state the fact is indi- 
cated by the term striatulate. 

The stem is eqital or cijUn<h'kal when it is of uniform diameter 
in all its length ; hulhous when more or less abruptly enlarged at 
its base ; stuffed when its interior or central part is of a softer or 
looser texture than the exterior. In some mushrooms a thin 
membrane, in others a mass of webby filaments, stretches from the 
stem to the margin of the cap and conceals the gills in the young 
plant, but as the cap expands, this membrane, called the veil, 
usually separates from the margin of the cap and adheres to the 
stem, forming around it a ring or collar, botanically known as an 

annulus. 

In a few species the young plant is wholly enveloped in a 
membranous or somewhat tomentose volva or wrapper, but this 
is soon ruptured by the growing plant and its remains are in 
some cases entirely left at the base of the stem, in others they 
partly adhere to the upper surface of the cap in the form of vxirts, 
or more rarely and exceptionally in a few small irregular patches. 
The dangerously po'sonous species occur in a geuus in which 
the volva is a prominent character. 

The spores are the seeds or reproductive bodies ( f mushrooms. 
They are as fine as dust and are invisible to the naked eye except 
when collected together in great numbers or in masses. The 
hymenium is the surface or part of the plant immediately con- 
cerned in the production of the spores, and the hynienophore or 
hym<7U>phorum is the part that supports the hymenium. In the 
Common mushroom and many others as well, the spores develop 



lis KEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

on certain specialized cells called basldia (basidium in the singular) 
on each of which four spores usually develop. In the morels, these 
specialized cells are elongated into cylindrical membranous sacks 
called asci (ascus in the singular), in each of which eight spores 
usually develop. In germination the spores send out slender 
threads or filaments called mycelium by botanists, but commonly 
known as sjjaion. The mj^celium permeates the soil or other 
substance on which the mushroom grows and under favorable 
circumstances develops a crop of mushrooms of its own species. 

The method and place of spore development furnishes the basis 
for the primary classification of fungi. The best way to acquire 
a knowledge of our edible mushrooms is to study them in the 
light of the primary characters employed in botanical classifica- 
tion and, therefore, in their natural relations to each other. It is 
my plan to arrange and describe them in their respective classes, 
families and genera. It will be seen that the species here 
described are all included in three great groups or classes, whose 
names and distinguishing characters may be expressed in the 
following general manner : 

Gasteromyceteae. Fungi whose spores are produced in the 
interior of the plant. Example. Puff halls. 

Discomyceteas. Fungi whose spores are produced on the 
upper or exterior surface of the cap and are contained in delicate 
membranous sacks. Example. Morels. 

Hymenomyceteae. Fungi whose spores are produced on the 
lower surface of the cap. Example. Comrnon mushroom. 

In the last class there are a few species in which no cap is 
developed. In these the spores are produced on the exterior of 
upright simple stem-like plants, or of the branches of upright 
bush-like plants, or on the upper surface of jelly-like irregularly 
expanded plants. None of the gelatinous plants will be 
described and only a few species of the other exceptional cases. 
These species all belong to the single genus Clavaria. 

The spore-bearing surface, or hyraenium, is generally recog- 
nizable, even to the naked eye, by its smooth, delicate, waxy 
appearance, which is ijuite unlike that of the sterile surfaces. 

In most of the cap bearing mushrooms the lower surface of 
the cap is furnished with special organs on whose surfaces the 
spores are produced. These are in the forms known as gills, 



EBPOKT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 119 

pores and teeth, and these organs furnish the characters on 
which the three principal families of the Hynienomycete;e are 
founded. These characters will be more fully discussed in their 
proper place. 

Gasteromyceteae. 
Puff Balls. 

Puff balls belong to the class of fungi to which botanists have 
given the name Gasteromyceteie. This name may be translated 
stomach fungi. It has reference to the fact that those plants 
which belong to this class have their stomach, that is, their 
whole interior, filled with spores when mature. The spores are 
developed on basidia as in the Hymenomyceteas. 

These are among the most easily recognized of fungi and the 
larger species in their early state are among the best of our 
edible species. Almost every country lad is familiar with the 
globular iilants with papery rind stuffed full of a mass of brown 
dust like material intermingled with cottony filaments. Time 
and again these have been seen lying on the ground or adhering 
to old stumps or the dead trunks of trees, and often have they 
afforded amusement by being subjected to sudden pressure 
between thumb and lingers that there might be seen the little 
cloud of dust-like spores belched forth like a miniature puff of 
smoke, and like smoke quickly vanishing in the air. But no one 
would think these good to eat, nor indeed are they while in this 
condition. But most puff' balls are white within when young 
and their substance is then of a soft Heshy texture very unlike 
the dusty mass that tills them in mature age. And it in only 
while they are tohite ivithin that they are fit for food. When they 
reach maturity the flesh at tirst assumes greenish-yellow or 
brownish-yellow hues and is apt to become moist or watery. 
They are then spoiled for edible purposes. 

Lycoperdon Taurn. 

Most of our puff balls and both the edible species here noticed 
belong to the genus Lycoperdon. There are about twenty species 
of this genus found in our State, but most of them are quite small, 
being less than two>inches in diameter. They are naturally and 
botanically divided into two groups characterized by the manner 



120 KEPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

in which they open for the dispersion of the spores. In one 
group the rind of the mature plant breaks into irregular frag- 
ments in the upper part of the plant, and graduall\^ falls away 
exposing the mass of spores and permitting them to be 
disseminated by the wind. In the other group the rind opens by 
a small nearly circular but somewhat ragged apical aperture. 
This group includes nearly all of the smaller species, and the rind 
is generalh' thinner anil more papery than in the others. Both 
the edible species here described belong to the first group. Some 
botanists have considered this group as worthy of generic dis- 
tinction and have applied the name Calvatia to it, but for our 
present jjurpose the original names of the species are deemed 
preferable. 

No deleterious species of puff ball is known, but so far as my 
experiments have gone the small species are inferior in flavor to 
the large ones, and these only are at present recommended for 
food. Possibly some of the untried small species may be as 
agreeably flavored as the large ones, and perhaps improved 
methods of cooking may give a more agreeable dish from those 
already tried. We have two species of Bovista, a kind of puff 
ball differing slightly from lycoperdons in the more perfectly 
globular shape and in the more tough and smooth rind of the 
mature plant. These are the Lead-colored bovista, Bovista 
plumhea, and the Bill- shape bovista, Bovista jnla, both of which 
are pronounced edible hy Professor W. Trelease, but as I have 
not tried them thej' are dismissed from further consideration at 
present. 

The genus Scleroderma is allied ti our common puff balls and 
would naturally be classed with them in the popular mind. The 
species differ from puff l)alls in tiieir thicker rind and in having a 
colored flesh even in the immature state. I suspect that their 
disagreeable flavor has kept them out of the list of edible species, 
but one correspondent affirms that he has eaten these fungi and 
considers them good. 

The two species of puff ball now to be described may be con- 
trasted as follows : 

Plant 8 to 15 inches in iliameter, spore mass olivaceous. L. giganteum. 
Plant .3 to inches in diameter, spores mass i)ur()lish. . . L.cyathi forme. 



EBPOKT OF THE STATE B0TA.HI8T. 121 

Lycoperdon giganteum Batsch. 

Giant Pdff Ball. 
Plate 1 . 

Peridium very large, globose or depressed-globose, sessile or 
nearly so, glabrous or slightly tiocculose, ^vhite, whitish or 
slightly yellowish, becoming dingy with age; capillitium and 
spores greenish-yellow, then dingy-olivaceous; spores globose, 
about .001 '16 in. broad. 

The Giant puff ball is our largest species. Its diameter is 
commonly eight to fifteen inches, but sometimes it attains even 
larger dimensions. Its horizontal diameter is often greater than 
its altitude. Its rind is smooth and white or whitish, but ac it 
grows old it becomes yellowish and dusky. The flesh is at first 
white but with maturity it assumes greenish-yellow hues and 
when it becomes dusty it is brownish or brownish-olivaceous. 

It grows in grassy places and appears in August and Septem- 
ber. It is not common, but owing to its large size a single one is 
sufficient for a meal for a large family. Indeed one writer 
advises that, when one is found growing near the house, it should 
not all be taken at once, but that a sufficient quantity of it 
should be taken for a meal and another portion be cut from it 
the next diy for another meal, and so on until it is all utilized 
or until it is too old for use. The largest specimens are apt to 
be depressed so as to resemble in shape a round loaf of bread. 

Lycoperdon cyathiforme Bosc. 
Cdp-Shapei) Tuff Ball. 

Plate 3. 

Peridium three to six inches in diameter, globose or depressed- 
globose, smooth or minutely floccose or scaly, whitish cinereous 
brown or pinkish-brown, often cracking into areas in the upper 
part, commonly with a short thick stem-like base ; capillitium and 
spores purple-brown, these and the upper part of the peridium 
falling away and disappearing when old, leaving a cup-shaped 
base with a ragged margin ; spores globose, rough, purple-brown, 
.0002 to .00025 in. broad. 

The Cup shaped puff ball is smaller than the Giant puff ball and 
more common. Ordinarily it is from three to six inches in 
diameter. It is at first white, whitish or brownish, but it is apt 
16 



122 EEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

to become darker with age, assuming brown or pinkish-brown 
hues. The upper part often cracks into angular areas or patches, 
the chinks being ])aler than the surface. When fully mature the 
upper part of the rind breaks up into fragments which fall away 
revealing the dull purplish-brown mass of spores and filaments 
within. After these have disappeared there still remains a cup- 
shaped base which is suggestive of the name of this puff ball and 
which sometimes persists all winter. From such an effete 
specimen the species was first named and described. 

This species grows in pastures, sometimes in cultivated ground. 
It appears in August and September. In preparing it and the 
preceding species for the table select immature specimens whose 
iiesh is yet pure white. Peel them and cut the flesh into slices 
one-fourth to one-half an inch thick. These slices may be fried 
in butter and seasoned according to taste or they may first be 
dipped in beaten egg and then fried and seasoned. In this way 
they make a kind of mushroom fritters or omelet that is liked by 
almost every one. If preferred, the beaten egg may be thickened 
with bread crumbs or crushed cracker. Some who are very fond 
of the Common mushroom fry the plain slices in butter, adding a 
mushroom or two to increase the true mushroom flavor, or they 
stew them in milk or cream, adding mushrooms if convenient, as 

before. 

Discomycetese. 

M0EEL8, Helvellas and Miteula. 
The Discomycetea; or dish fungi are evidently so named 
because in many of the species the fertile or spore-bearing sur- 
face is flat like a disk. It includes also many cu|)-shapetl fungi 
in which the fertile surface is concave like the inside of a saucer 
or cup. But in the group which contains the edible species here 
to be noticed the fertile surface is neither flat nor concave, but 
decidedly conve.x, conical, oval or even cylimlrical or club 
shaped. In some species also it is very irregular or uneven. In 
all the species, however unlike they may be in other respects, 
there is this agreement, the upper or exterior surface is the 
spore-bearing surface and the spores are developed in thin mem- 
branous sacks, not on basidia within the plant as in the case of 
puff balls. In the morels and allied species the plant consists 
of a stem and cap as in an ordinary mushroom, but these are 



SKPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 



123 



very unlike the stem and cap of a mushroom in general appear- 
ance. Our edible species are placed in four genera, whose 
prominent distinctive characters, so far as our species are con- 
cerned, may be ascertained from the following table: 

Cap coarsely pitted over its whole surface Morchella. 

Cap convolutely lobed Gyromitra. 

Cap irregular or reflexed Helvella. 

Cap club shaped, often irregularly so Mitrula . 

Morchella Dill. 
In the genus Morchella, to which the morels belong, the cap 
is supported on a hollow stem and its whole surface is very un- 
even by reason of a net-work of anastomosing or reticulated 
ridges and their intervening cavities. This gives the surface a 
pitted or honeycombed appearance. The ridges are blunt on the 
edge. The spore sacks are imbedded in the whole surface, both 
of pits and ridges, each sack usually containing eight spores, a 
fact which can only be ascertained for one's self by the aid of a 
microscope. In the mass, the spores are yellowish. 

Six species have been found in our State. All are similar in 
color, and the specific distinctions are not very sharp. They are 
found chiefly in the size and shape of the cap. All are deemed 
edible and similar in texture and flavor, and therefore the sepa- 
ration of the species from each other is not of much practical 
importance if they are sought for food only. The prevailing 
color of the cap in young and growing plants is buff-yellow or 
ochraceous, but as the plants become old or begin to dry, darker 
hues are assumed. The stems are rather stout, white or whitish, 
or barely tinged with yellow, and scurfy or at least not perfectly 
smooth and polished. They are hollow and in plants in which 
the margin of the cap is attached to the stem the cap also is hol- 
low, the cavity being continuous between cap and stem. 

The species may be arranged in two groups, in one of which 
the margin of the cap is wholly attached to the stem, in the 
other it is free. 

All the species occur early in the season. They may be sought 
in wet weather, in May and June. I have never found any of 
them later than June. Most of them seem to prefer to grow un- 
der or near pine and ash trees, though they are sometimes found 
under other trees. 



124 BBPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

There are two or three species of stink horn fungi, species of 
Phallus, which, \7hen old, bear some resemblance to morals. 
They have a pitted cap supported on a stem, but the cap has an 
opening in the top and the stem is porous, and besides, these 
plants have such an intolerable odor that no one would think of 
eating them. It is not likely that any one would mistake them 
for morels. 

In the annexed table the distinctive features of the species are 
indicated. All the species are so much alike that the usual 
botanical diagnosis will be omitted. 

Margin of the cap united to the stem 1 

Margin of the cap free from the stem 3 

1 Cap rounded or oval M. esculenta . 

1 Cap oblong or cylindrical M. deliciosa. 

1 Cap conical or oblong-conical 3 

2 Cap distinctly broader than the stem M. conica. 

2 Cap scarcely broader than the stem M. angusticeps. 

3 Cap free from the stem to the middle M. semilibera, 

3 Cap free from the stem to the top M. bispora . 

Morchella esculenta Pers. 
Common Moeel. 

Plate 3. Figs. 1 to 3. 

In the Common morel the cap is generally a little longer than 
broad. It is sometimes nearly globose and sometimes slightly 
narrowed toward the top. The pits or depressions in its surface 
are rather broader than in other si)ecies and more rounded, thereby 
giving the surface an appearance more like that of a hone^'comb. 

The plant is commonly two to four inches high, with a stem 
a half inch or more thick. 

It bus long been known as an edible species, as its specific 
name implies. 

Morchella conica Pers. 

Conical Mokkl 

Plate 4. Figs. 1 to 4. 

The Conical morel has the cap conical or oblong-conical, as its 
name indicates. The longitudinal ridges on its surface run more 
regularly from top to base than in the Common morel. Thay are 
connected by short transverse ridges which are so distant from 
each other or so incomplete that the resulting pits or depressions 



BEPOKT Of THE STATE B0TAWI8T. 



125 



are generally longer than broad, and sometimes rather irregular. 
The color in the young plant is a beautiful buff-yellow or very 
pale ochraceous, but it becomes darker with age. 

The plants are generally three to five inches high, with the cap 
one and a half to two inches thick in its broadest part, and dis- 
tinctly broader than the stem. 

This is similar to the Common morel in its esculent qualities 
and is generally admitted by writers to be an excellent food and 
of delicate flavor. It has been regarded by some as a mere 
variety of the preceding species. Both may be found growing on 
either sandy, gravelly or clayey soils. 

Morchella angusticetJS Peck. 
Naeeow cap ]\Iorkl. 

Plate 4. Figs. 5 to 9. 

The Narrow cap morel differs from the Conical morel in its 
generally smaller size, more pointed cap and comparatively 
thicker stem. Generally the cap is scarcely thicker than the 
stem, even at its base, which is its broadest part. It is long and 
narrow and sometimes curved. In some specimens the stem is 
widest at the top and gradually tapers toward the base as shown 

in figure 5. 

The plants are commonly two to three inches high, with the 
cap generally less than an inch broad in its widest part, but some- 
times much larger specimens occur. 

Morchella deliciosa Fr. 

Delicious Moekl. 

Plate 3. Figs. 4 to 7. 

The Delicious morel is easily known by the shape of its cap, 
which is cylindrical or nearly so. Sometimes it is slightly nar- 
rowed toward the top and occasionally curved, as in the preced- 
ing species, but its long narrow shape and blunt apex is quite 
strongly contrasted with that species. It is usually two or three 
times as long as it is broad, and generally it is longer than the 
stem. Specimens also occur in which the cap is slightly more nar- 
row in the middle than it is above and below, and rarely it is 
slightlv pointed at the apex. The pits on its surface are rather 
narrow and mostly longer than broad. The stem is often rather 
short. 



126 BBPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

The plant varies from one and a half to three inches high. It 
is a rare species in our State. 

The name indicates that the illustrious Fries, who originally 
described the species, considered it an especially agreeable morel, 
and indeed he says it is more sapid than the Common morel. 
Roques sustains him in this opinion and Quelet speaks of it as 
very line and fragrant. 

In the four spacies already described the margin of the cap is 
united to or continuous with the top of the stem. In the two 
remaining species the margin of the cap is free from the stem, 
and consequently an open space intervenes between it and the 
stem. 

Morchella semilibera D C. 

Half fkee Mokkl. 

Plates. Figs. 11 to IS. 

The Half free morel has a conical cap, the lower fialf of which 
is free from the stem. It rareiy exceeds an inch or an inch and 
a half in length, and is usually much shorter than its stem. Tho 
pits on its surface are longer than broad. Deformed specimens 
occur in which the cap is hemispherical and very blunt or obtuse 
at the apex ; in others it is abruptly narrowed above and pointed. 

The plants are two to four inches high. The species is rare 
with us. 

Some writers claim that its flavor is less agreeable than that of 
the Common morel. The plants are so scarce that I have had no 
opportunity to test its edible qualities. 

The species was described by Persoon under the name Morchella 
hyh'ida, a name having reference doubtless to the character of 
the cap, which, by being half free, partakes of the nature of the 
cap of an ordinary mushroom, while in other respects it retains 
the features of the true morels. This name is adopted in Syllogo 
Fungorum, but most English writers have employed the other. 

Morchella bispora Sor. 

Two-.Sl'OEED MoUKL. 
PUte S. Figs. 8 to 10. 

The Two-spored morel is very similar to the Half free morel 
in external appearance. It is distinguishal)le by its cap which is 
free from the stem almost or quite to tho top. The stem of the 
European plant has been described as stuffed, but in our plants it 



BEPOET OF THE STATE BOTAKIST. 137 

is hollow, though possibly in very young plants it may be stuffed. 
The remarkable and very distinctive character which gives name 
to the species, can only be seen by the aid of a microscope. In 
this species there are only two spores in each ascus or sack and 
these are much larger than the spores of the other species. They 
are two or three times longer and sometimes slightly curved. 
The spores of the other species are eight in an ascus and are very 
much alike in size ana shape, and do not furnish decided specific 
cliaracters ; but in this species their importance can not be over- 
looked. Their length is about .0024 inch, while in the others it is 
.0008 to .001 inch. 

This is probaljly our rarest species. I am not aware that it 
has been found in but one locality in our State. A few years 
ago Mr. H. A. Warne detected it growing among fallen leaves 
in a ravine near Oneida. I have not tested its edible qualities, 
but would have no hesitation in eating it if opportunity should 

be afforded. 

Some writers speak highly of the edible quality of the morels, 
others are less enthusiastic over them. My own limited experi- 
ence leads to the conclusion that, as a rule, they are not very 
highly flavored, though much better than some species classed as 
edible. One correspondent says, " I do not think much of morels. 
If cooked like mushrooms they become tough." And here, per- 
haps, is one cause of dissatisfaction with them. They may be 
spoiled by bad cooking. Some mushrooms are made more tough 
by too severe cooking. It is better to let such kinds simmer 
slowly over a gentle fire. One receipt for cooking morels says, 
cut clean morels in halves, place in a stew pan with butter and 
set over a fire. AVhen the butter is melted add a little lemon 
juice, salt and pepper. Then cook slowly for an hour, adding 
from time to time small quantities of beef gravy. 

Cooke speaks of morels in general as about the safest and most 
delicious of edible fungi, and Cordier rei)resents the Common 
morel as a delicate food and one that is in general demand in 
France. There is one thing in favor of morels. They are gen- 
erally free from insects, and on this account their natural flavor 
is unimpaired, and there is no loss from infested specimens. 
Their flesh is rather brittle or fragile and more dry than that of 
some mushrooms, in consequence of which they are easily dried 
for future use. 



128 BEPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

Gyromitra Fr. 
The genus Gyromitra differs from Morchella in the character 
of its cap. The surface of this is not pitted as in the morels, 
but it is nevertheless very uneven, some parts being prominent 
as if inflated, others depressed. These convexities and depres- 
sions are so irregular and lobed that they suggest a faint resem- 
blance to the convolutions of the brain. In other respects, and 
especially in the spore characters, the relationship to the morels 
is clear. Three species, Gyromitra esculenta, G. cuttipes and 
G. sjihivrospura belong to our State, but the first one only is 
common and known to be edible. 

Gyromitra escuxenta Fr. 
Edible Helvella. Escolext Gyromitra. 

Plate 6. Figs. 1 to 3. 

Pileus rounded, lobed, irregular, gyrose-convolute, glabrous, 
bay red; stem stout, stulfed or hollow, whitish, often irregular; 
spores elliptical, binucleate, yellowish, .ooos to .onOO inch long. 

The Edible helvella, formerly known as Helvella esculenta, is 
easily recognized by its chestnut red irregularly rounded and 
lobed cap with its brain-like convolutions. The margin of the 
cap is attached to the stem in two or three places. When cut 
through it is found to be hollow, whitish within and uneven, 
with a few prominent irregular ribs or ridges. The stem is 
whitish, slightly scurfy, and, when mature, hollow. In large 
specimens it sometimes appears as if formed by the union of two 
or more smaller ones. 

The plant is two to four inches high and the cap commonly 
two to three inches broad. Specimens sometimes occur weighing 
a pound each. It is fond of sandy soil and is found in May and 
June. It grows cliielly in wet weather or in wet ravines or 
springy jjlaces in the vicinity of pine groves or pine trees. 

Cordier says that this species has an agreeable taste and is 
highly esteemed. Also that it is sold in the German markets as a 
true morel. I have repeatedly eaten it without experiencing any 
evil consequences, but its flavor to me is not that of a first-class 
mushroom. But it was simply fried in butter and seasoned with 
salt. Perhaps with more elaborate prejMiration or with the 
addition of a little lemon juice or vinegar its flavor might be 
improved. 



BEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 129 

Care should be taken by those eating it to use it with moder- 
ation and not to cook very old or long-kept specimens. Sickness 
has been known to result from eating freely of specimens that 
had been kept twenty-four hours before being cooked. When 
old and beginning to dry, the cap is apt to assume a darker or 
brown color. Often the lower or unexposed surface of the cap 
is paler than that which is more exposed to wind and sun. 

Helvella L. 
In the genus ITelvella the cap is neither pitted nor convolutely 
lobed, but it is, nevertheless, quite irregular and variously 
rellexed, revolute or contorted so that in no two individuals, even 
of the same species, does it appear exactly alike. The stem in 
some species is stout and conspicuously marked by longitudinal 
grooves or furrows and their intervening ribs or ridges. In some 
species these furrows are continuous, in others, some of them are 
interrupted or short. In one or two species the stems are slender 
and even. All the species are rather small and scarce. They 
grow chieily in woods and do not appear as early in the season 
as the morels and the Edible helvella. Though all are deemed 
edible I have not found them in sufficient cpiantity to verify their 
edible qualities and will describe onlv one of them. 

Helvella crispa Fr. 

White Helvella. 

Plate 5. Figs. 4 to 7. 

Pileus deflexed, lobed or variously contorted, white or whitish; 
stem equal or slightly swollen at the base, deeply and interruptedly 
grooved, white or whitish; spores elliptical, .()UU7 to .Oouy inch long. 

The White helvella is distinguished from all other helvellas by 
its vhite or whitish color and by its peculiar stem, which is 
strongly ribbed and deeply grooved, the grooves or furrows being 
interrupted and varying much in length. A transverse section 
of the stem shows that it contains several longitudinal cavities or 
hollows. The cap is scarcely alike in an}' two individuals. 
Often it is lobed or contorted in such a way as to form two or 
more projecting points. 

The plant is two to four inches high and the stem from one- 
fourth to one-half an inch thick. It grows in woods in August 
and September, but is not often plentiful. 
17 



130 EEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

Most French authors say that it is excellent when young, and 
Cooke says that when fresh it has a pleasant nutty flavor and is 
an excellent substitute for morels. Badham also affirms that all 
helvellas are esculent and have a general resemblance, in flavor, 
to morels. I do not know of any deleterious fungus that could 
reasonably be mistaken for this or any other helvella. 

Mitrula Fr. 
The genus Mitrula has been made by Saccardo in Sylloge Fun- 
gorum to include species having a club-shaped cap. In conse- 
quence of this enlargement of the generic character we find Geo- 
glossum vitdlinum Bres. and a variety of it, or a closely allied 
species, Oeoylossum irreyulare Peck, placed with the mitrulas. 
This pretty little fungus might easily be referred to the genus 
Clavaria, but for the fact that its spores are contained in asci or 
sacks. Nor is it sharply separated from the genus Geoylossum 
except by its spore characters. The New York plant differs from 
the European in its more compressed and irregular cap, and in 
consequence it has been kept distinct as a variety, in Sylloge, and 
stands as 

Mitrula vitellina Sacc. var. irregularis Feck. 
Ibbeoular Mitbula. 

Plate 5. Figs. 8 to 14. 

Pileus clavate, often irregular or compressed and somewhat 
lobed, obtuse, glabrous, yellow, tapering below into the short, 
rather distinct, yellowish or whitish stem ; spores narrowly ellip- 
tical, .()0();3 to .00U4 inch long. 

When the Irregular mitrula is well grown and symmetrical it 
closely resembles the typical European plant, but usually the 
clubs or caps are curved, twisted, compressed or lobed in such a 
wa}' that it is diflicult to find two plants just alike. The plants 
are usually only one or two inches high, so that they would 
scarcely be thought of any importance as an edible species. But 
sometimes it grows in considerable profusion in wet moss\' places 
in woods, so that it would not be ditlicult to gather a pmt of them 
in a short time. Its beautiful bright yellow color makes it a very 
attractive oliject. It is our largest species of Mitrula and occurs 
in autumn. 



BKPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 



131 



It was first reported as an edible species in the Forty-second 
Eeport. Its flesh is tender and its flavor delicate and agreeable. 

This plant was first described in 1879 in the Thirty-second 
Report, under the name GeogUmum irregulare. In 1882 Bresa- 
dola published his Geoglossum vitellinum, from which our plant 
differs so slightly that it has been considered a mere variety ; and 
in consequence of the irregularity in the publication of the 
Thirty-second Report, no extra copies having been ordered, the 
later name has been given precedence. 

Hymenomycetese. 

MUSHEOOMS, BOLEII AND FaIEY ClUBS. 

The mushrooms hereafter to be described belong to the very 
large class of fungi known to botanists by the name Hymeno- 
mycete», a word composed of two parts, signifying membrane 
fungi, and in its present use indicating that in theae fungi 
the spores are produced on thin or membranous parts or sur- 
faces. In the Common mushroom and in all others of similar 
structure, these spore-bearing membranes or surfaces are found 
on the lower or under side of the cap. They are commonly 
called gills, and have already been described. The spores are 
produced on both surfaces of the gills, and when mature they 
drop through the interspaces between the gills and fall to the earth 
below or are wafted awa^-^ by currents of air. All fungi having 
a cap with gills beneath belong to the family Agaricinea?. 

In the Edible boletus and other fungi of similar structure the 
lower surface of the cap is full of small holes or pores, previously 
described. The spores are developed on the inner surface of 
these pores, and when mature they are dropped or ejected into 
the open air below. All fungi having a cap with pores beneath 
constitute a family called Polyporeae. 

In the Spreading hydnum or Hedgehog mushroom the lower 
surface of the cap is furnished with closely-placed depending 
spine like teeth. All fungi of similar structure are included in a 
family named Hydneie, from the genus Ilydnum, the principal 
genus in it. In one species the cap is replaced by spreading 
branches with teeth on their lower surface. Spreading or thinly- 
expanded plants with no stems which belong to this and the pre- 
ceding family are not noticed, since there are no edible species 
among them. 



132 BEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST 

In the Cornucopia mushroom the cap has neither gills, pores 
nor teeth on its lower surface, which is even or sliglitly and 
obscurely wrinkled. It, therefore, belongs to a fourth family 
which takes the name Thelephorese. 

There is still another family with a few edible species in it. It 
is named Olavarieai, from its principal genus Clavaria. In this 
genus the edible species occur. It is composed of two kinds of 
plants. In one kind there is a simple upright club-shaped stem- 
like growth with no well-marked cap or exjjanded part. In the 
other there is a brandling bush-like growth. In both these the 
spores are produced on the exterior surface of tne plants or of 
their branches. A synoptical view of the live families is given 
in the annexed table. 

Cap present 1 

Cap wanting Clavarierc. 

1 Cap with radiating gills beneath AgaricineiE. 

1 Cap with pores beneath Polj-poreiB. 

1 Cap with spine-like or awl-shaped teeth beneath Hj'dnea;. 

1 Cap with neither gills, pores nor teelh beneath Thelephorese. 

Agaricinese. 

Agaeics. 
The family Agaricineie probabl}' includes more edible species 
than any other. Its members are sometimes called "agarics." 
More than 500 species of this family have been credited to our 
State flora. For the sake of convenience in the identitication 
of such a great abundance of material, botanists have divided 
the family into smaller groups or sect;ons depending on the 
color of the spores. We can do no better than to fullow this 
arrangement in the study of the species. It is not a difficult 
matter to ascertain the color of the spores of an agaric. Gen- 
erally they have nearly or (juite the same color as the mature 
gills, but to this there are so many exceptions that t<> be exact 
we must see the spores themselves. Singly they are invisible to 
the naked eye, but when collected in a mass their color is plainly 
to be seen. If the cap of a mushroom is cut from its stem and 
placed in its natural position, gills downward, on any Hat surface, 
say a piece of white paper as broad as itself, it will in a few 



BEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 133 

hours drop enough spores on the paper to show their color, on 
removing the cap. If the spores are white, and we may infer 
that they are if the mature gills are white, white paper will not 
be so good for disclosing their color, as paper of some dark color. 
Black paper is sometimes used when it is suspected that the 
spores are white. Or the cap may be placed on a piece of glass 
and then the glass may be placed over a white or a colored 
background, according to circumstances. 

Fresh, sound, fully-developed specimens should be selected to 
furnish the spores. If the cap is thin it is well to invert a goblet 
or similar vessel over it to prevent it from drying and to exclude 
currents of air. 

Having ascertained the color of the spores the subjoined table 
will show in which section the species belongs. 

Spores brown, purplish-brown or black Melanosporte. 

Spores ochraceous, brownish -ochraceous or rusty-ochra- 

ceous Ocbrosporoe. 

Spores rosy or pinkish Rliodosporte. 

Spores white, whitish or pale yellow Leucosporoe. 

Melanosporae. 

By some botanists the brown and purplish-brown-sporod spe- 
cies are grouped in one section, and the black-spored species in 
another ; but both are united in one section in Sylloge Fungorum 
and this is sufficiently simple for our purpose. Our edible spe- 
cies ot this section are included in two genera, Agaricus and 

Coprinus. 

Agaricus L. 

The genus Agaricus originally included nearly all the species 
that now compose the family Agaricinea^, but it has been divided 
and subdivided until now it includes only such brown spored 
species as have free gills and a stem with a collar. 

There are several edible species in the genus, and, so far as I 
know, it contains no dangerous species. The edible species are 
closely related to each other, and in all here noticed the gills 
have a pink color in young or middle age, but become dark- 
brown or blackish-brown in mature age. There is no simpler 
way of expressing the distinctive specific features than by an 
analytical table. The species may be arranged in two groups, 



134 HEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

depending on their place of growth. This arrangement is not as 
exact and satisfactory as is desirable, but it brings together those 
species that are most closely related to each other. 

Plants growing in pastures, grassy or open 

places 1 

Plants growing in woods or groves 4 

1 Stem stuffed or solid 8 

1 Stem hollow 3 

2 Gills at first pink, about as broad as the 

thickness of the cap A. campester. 

2 Gills at first white, breadth less than the 

thickness of the cap A. Rodmani. 

3 Collar radiately divided on its lower surface . . A. arvensis. 

3 Collar floccose on its lower surface A. subrufescens. 

4 Flesh quickly changing to dull red where 

wounded A. hemorrhoidarius. 

4 Flesh not changing to dull-red where 

wounded 6 

5 Cap with numerous persistent brown scales ... A. placomyces. 

5 Cap without scales or with few evanescent ones. A. silvaticus. 

Agaricus campester Z.* 
Common Mdshroom. Edible Mushroom. 

Plate 6. 

Pileus silky or squaraulose ; lamelhv at first a delicate pink, 
becoming brown or blackish-brown with age ; stem stuffed, glab- 
rous, white or whitish ; spores elliptical, .00025 to .0003 inch long. 

The Common mushroom, sometimes called the Edible mush- 
room, as if it was the only edible species known, and also 
Meadow mushroom in common with A. arvensis, is perhaps more 
generally used and better known than any other. It is the one 
commonly cultivated and the one most often seen on the tables 
of ihc ricii and of fashionable restaurants and public houses. It 
is so eagerly sought in some of our cities that it is dillicult tro find 
the wild ones near these towns, for they are gathered almost as 
soon as they appear, and the cultivated ones usually bring prices 
beyond tne reach of the poor. 

• Thin na-ut- Ih usually written Agaricm campi'strit, but Id Sylloge FuDKOrum the more 
olaulcal and grammatical term here adopted Ik used. 



BEPOBT OF THB STATE BOTANIST. 135 

In very young plants the cap is hemispherical or almost 
globose and the gills are concealed. Such plants of this and 
of the closely related Horse mushroom have received the 
name "button mushrooms," and are preserved in brine or 
other liquid and sold in the leading grocery stores. As the 
cap expands the veil separates from the margin revealing 
the delicate-tinted pinkish gills. When mature the cap is 
very broadly convex or nearly flat. It is generally a little 
silky with close-pressed fibrils, but these often vanish with age 
and the cap appears quite smooth. Its margin, especially in the 
younger plants, extends a little beyond the exterior extremity of 
the gills. The color of the cap is commonly white, but with age 
it may become a little tinged with dingy hues. The flesh is 
white, but sometimes exhibits a tendency to become slightly 
tinged with red when cut and exposed to the air. Its taste is 
mild and iileasant. The epidermis is separable from the cap. 

The gills are closely placed, rounded at the inner extremity 
and not attached to the stem. The beautiful pink hue of their 
early state gradually becomes darker and tinally changes to a 
smoky brown, Avhich, in dried specimens, becomes almost or quite 
black. This peculiarity in the coloration of the gills is so unlike 
anything known in the dangerous species that it seems surpris- 
ing that'any such should ever be mistaken for this mushroom. A 
whole group of pink-spored species, some of which are suspected 
of being hurtful, have pinkish-colored gills, but they never assume 
dark-brown or blackish hues. 

The stem is generally shorter than the horizontal diameter of 
the cap and about equal in thickness from top to base. The cen- 
tral portion is a little softer in texture than the external part. 
A collar encircles it in the upper part. Sometimes this is so thin 
and slight that scarcely any vestige of it remains in old plants. 

The spores are sometimes described as purplish-brown but I 
have never been able to see any decided purple tint in them. 
They are not as dark as seal-brown but approach it. 

This mushroom, like many other plants that have been long 
and extensively cultivated, has developed into several forms 
which exhibit quite well-marked distinctive features. One of 
these, called the Garden mushroom, Variety hortensis, is repre- 
sented by figures 8 and 9. It is often found in cultivation and 



186 HEPOKT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

sold in the markets, but is rarely found growing in the fields. 
Its cap is of a brownish color and frequently adorned with 
darker spots or scales. 

Variety griseus has a grayish shining silky cap. I have not 
yet found it in New York, but it grows in Virginia. It occurs 
in France and is figured by liichon and Roz6. 

Variety alha has the cap and stem white. It is our most 
common form. 

Cap two to tour inches broad, stem one and a half to three 
inches long, one-third to two-thirds of an inch thick. 

The Common mushroom grows in grassy places, in pastures, 
manured ground and mushroom beds, never in thick woods. It 
occurs mostly in August and September. In cultivation in a 
suitable place it may be had in midwinter. Owing to the attacks 
of insects it is better to raise mushrooms in winter than in sum- 
mer, unless the insects can be effectually excluded from the beds 
and the apartments and the temperature properly regulated. 
The wild ones are thought by some to have a better flavor than 
the cultivated ones, but the latter are good enough for any one 
and sometimes command surprisingly high prices. Mushrooms 
of all kinds are more eagerly sought and more extensively used 
in Europe than in this country, but with the great influx of 
Europeans into this country, bringing with them a taste for this 
kind of food, and with the rapid increase in population making 
an increased demand for all kinds of food, it is probable that 
the demand for and the use of mushrooms will soon be as great 
here as in Europe. The chief difficulty in the matter is the lack 
of a sufTicient general knowledge of the species or of the means 
of acquiring the knowledge necessar}' to make it safe to use them. 

In the wild state the Common mushroom usually grows in 
gr()ui)s or a single one in a place, l)ut when cultivated they often 
form large tufts. A kind of out-door cultivation is sometimes 
employed in order to increase the abundance of mushrooms. 
Neglected places in fence corners, pastures or roadsides are dug 
up and manure incorporated in the soil if it is not already very 
rich. Mushroom spawn, after having been soaked in warm 
water or kept moist in a warm place for several hours to start it 
into growth, is then planted in the prepared places and a coat of 
fine manure spread over the surface. 



BEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 



137 



It is well to mulch the surface with some coarse material like 
leaves, straw or hay, to keep the soil moist. If the planting 
is done in spring and the season is favorable a crop of mushrooms 
should appear in autumn. 

Almost every cook claims to know how to prepare this mush- 
room for the table, and recipes for cooking it will be found in 
cook books. No extended directions therefore are necessary 
here. One of the simplest methods and one which is applicable 
to all tender species is to fry gently in butter, seasoning accord- 
ing to taste. They may be stewed in milk or cream, broiled on 
a gridiron or in a steak broiler, or baked in an oven. To some 
they are very acceptable when eaten raw. Doctor Cooke says 
that when abroad on a day's excursion, one or two of these raw 
specimens are an excellent substitute for sandwiches, as they sat- 
isfy hunger, arc nutritive and digestible, and very pleasant and 
grateful to the palate. 

Agaricus Rodmani Peck. 
Rodman's Musheoom. 

Plate 9. Figs. lto6. 

Pileus rather thick, firm, glabrous, white or whitish, dingy- 
yellow or reddish-yellow in the center, flesh white, unchangeable ; 
lamelkc crowded, narrow, at tirst whitish, then pink, finally 
blackish-brown ; stem short, solid, whitish ; spores broadly ellip- 
tical, .0002 to .00025 inch long. 

Rodman's mushroom may easily be mistaken for the common 
mushroom to which it is closely related. It has been separated 
from it because of its comparatively thicker firmer flesh, its more 
narrow gills, which are almost white when very young, and its 
peculiar collar. This seems to be double, and in the mature 
plant the two parts separate in such a way as to leave a deep 
groove or channel between them. In very short-stemmed speci- 
mens the collar is situated so near the base of the stem that it 
appears much like the remains of the volva or wrapper in some 
species of Amanita. The spores are a little shorter and broader 
in proportion to their length than those of the Common mush- 
room, so that at first sight they seem to be nearly globose. 

The cap is two to four inches broad, the stem one to two 
inches long and one-half an inch or less in thickness. 
18 



138 EEPOET OF THE 8T\TE BOTANIST, 

This mushroom was first described and recorded as edible in 
the Thirty-sixth Report. Subsequently Richon and Rozu pub- 
lished a species found in France to which the^^ gave the name 
PsaUiota dm'iuscula, the Firm champignon. They speak of their 
plant as a suspected species with nothing to recommend it, with 
an unpleasant flavor and with a flesh so hard as to render it indi- 
gestible. The figure and description of their species indicate 
that it is not distinct from Rodman's mushroom. But Mr. Rod- 
man ate of his plant and found it perfectly harmless. It is, there- 
fore, classed as edible. I have had no opportunity to test its 
edible qualities, but would have no hesitation in eating it if I 
could find it in good condition. 

It grows in grassy ground and even in crevices of unused 
pavements and paved gutters in cities. It appears from May to 
July. I have not found it in autumn. It is rare. 

Agaricus subrufescens Peck. 
Slightly reddish Mushroom. 

Plate 7. 

Pileus at first deeply hemis])herical, becoming convex or broadly 
expanded, silky fibrilloso and minutely or obscurely squamulose, 
whitish, grayish or dull reddish-brown, usually smooth and darker 
on the disk, flesh white, unchangeable ; lamellas at first white 
or whitish, then pinkish, finally blackish-brown; stem rather 
long, often somewhat thickened or bulbous at the base, at first 
stuffed, then hollow, white ; the annulus ilocculose or floccose- 
squamose on the lower surface; mycelium whitish, forming slen- 
der branching root like strings; spores elliptical, .0UU2i to .00028 
inch long. 

The Slightly reddish mushroom differs especially from the 
Common mushroom in the peculiar deejily hemispherical shape 
of the cap of the young plant, in the white or whitish color of 
the very young gills, in the at length hollow stem, often some- 
what thickened or i)ulbous at the base, and in the collar, 
which has the exterior or lower surface covered with little 
downy flakes or scales. Beside these characters it has others 
which may aid in supporting its claim to specific distinction. Its 
mycelium seems strongly disposed to form strings which adhere 
to the base of the stem like white branching threadlike roots, 
and the flesh has a flavor like that of almonds. This flavor 



EEPOBT OF THB STATE BOTANIST. 139 

appears to me to be more pronounced in the older plants than in 
those that are very young. When raised in large quantities in 
greenhouses it sometimes gives out a perceptible odor of bruised 

almonds. . ^ c -i tu «. 

The reddish-brown color is due to the coating of fibrils that 
cover the cap. These are often collected in minute tufts, which 
give a slight floccose or scaly appearance to the cap. In the 
center the epidermis does not separate into fibrils and scales, and 
in consequence the disk or center of the cap is smoother and 
more distinctly reddish-brown than the rest. The flesh is white 
and unchangeable when cut or broken. In this respect it differs 
decidedly from the Eeddish variety of the Common mushroom, 
Variety rufescens, though it resembles it in having the very 
voung gills white. 

' The stem is generally rather long and more or less thickened 
at the base. It is white and usually slightly flocculose below the 
collar very smooth above it. In the mature plant it is hoUow, 
but the cavity is very small. One of the distinguishing features 
of the species is the flocculent or scaly lower surface of the veil 
or collar It is apparently a double membrane, as in the Field 
mushroom, but instead of the lower membrane breakmg in a 
radiate manner as in that species, it breaks into small floccose 
flakes or scales. By this character and by the color of the very 
young gills it may be separated from the Garden variety of the 
Common mushroom, Variety hortensis, which it approaches in 

the color of the cap. 

The plant often grows in large clusters of many individuals, 
one correspondent affirming that as many as forty individuals 
sometimes occur in one cluster. In size it is similar to the Com- 
mon mushroom, but under favorable circumstances it seems 
sometimes to excel it, the cap attaining a diameter of six inches. 

It has been found but once in a wild state within our limits. 
Mr. Wm. Falconer, of Glen Cove, Long Island, discovered it 
growing on his compost heap composed chiefly of decaying 
Teaves From some of these specimens kindly sent me by the 
discoverer the original description was derived, but the specimens 
were not in satisfactory condition to figure. The present illus- 
trations have been made from specimens kindly furnished by 
Colonel Wright Eives of Washington, in whose greenhouse an 



140 BEPOBT OF THE STATB BOTANIST. 

enormous volunteer crop developed in soil prepared for forcing 
cucumbers. The species is apparently more easy of cultivation 
than the Common mushroom, less subject to the attacks of insects 
and not so intolerant of unfavorable conditions. It is very pro- 
ductive, develops sooner after the planting of the spawn and 
proI)ab]y will keep longer in good condition. Specimens picked 
in Washington on Monday night, reached Albany in a good state 
of preservation on the Thursday following, and some of them 
were eaten for supper on that day, making an interval of three 
da3's and three nights between the picking and the eating, and 
proving the possibility of supplying a distant market with this 
mushroom. Its flesh does not seem to me quite as tender as 
that of the Common mushroom, and its almond-like flavor may 
not be as acceptable to some tastes, but it is nevertheless an ex- 
cellent mushroom and one which may yet supersede the old kind, 
especially in the hands of private individuals who are often dis- 
appointed in their efforts to raise mushrooms. 

Agaricus arvensis Schopf. 
Field Mushroom. IIokse ISIushroom. 

Plate 8. 

Pileus smooth or at first slightly flocculent, white or yellowish ; 
lamella} at first whitish or very faintly pinlsish, soon dull pink, 
then blackish-brown ; stem stout, hollow, somewhat thickened 
or bulbous at the base, white, the collar double, the upper part 
membranous, white, the lower part thicker, subtomentosc. radi- 
ately split, yellowish ; spores elliptical, .0003 to .0004 inch long. 

The Field mushroom or Horse mushroom, also called Meadow 
mushroom, is so much like the Common mushroom that some 
botanists have suj)posed it to bo a mere variet}'^ of that species. 
The most notable differences are its larger size, its hollow, some- 
what bulbous stem, its ])eculiar veil or collar and the paler gills 
of the very young plant. The cap in dried specimens is a])t to 
assume a j'ellow color, which does not jiertain to the Common 
mushroom. The collar appears to be composed of two parts 
clf)scly applied to each other and making a double membrane, the 
lower part of which is of a thicker, softer texture-and split in a 
stellate manner into broad yellowish rays. Tiiis is j)erhaps the 
most distinctive character of the species, and a more detailed 



BEPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 



141 



description is scarcely necessary. No serious harm could come, 
so far as utility is concerned, if it should be confused with the 
Common mushroom. 

It f^rows in cultivated fields, grassy pastures and waste places. 
It is occasionally found under trees and even within the borders 
of thin woods. It has been supposed by some that its spores 
will not germinate unless they have passed through the alimen- 
tary canal of some animal. Whether there is any truth or not 
in such a supposition, it is common enough to find this mushroom 
growing in places where no trace of the dung of animals can be 
seen. It appears from July to September. 

A similar mushroom occurs in open places in woods or along 
the borders of thin woods. The color of its cap and stem is 
white as in the Field mushroom. Its cap is perhaps a little thin- 
ner and more fragile, and its stem is usually longer and has a 
very abrupt or flattened bulb at its base. Its collar is usually the 
same as that of the Field mushroom, but plants sometimes occur 
in which it appears to be a single lacerated membrane. Such 
plants have been referred to the Wood inhabiting mushroom, 
Agaricus dlvicola ; but its general aflinities seem to me to con- 
nect it more clusely with Aijaric.us arvoiuLs, to which I would 
subjoin it as an abrupt variety. Variety ab/'ujdus, the name hav- 
ing reference to the character of the bulb. I have eaten of this 
variety and consider it edible. Dried specimens assume a yel- 
lowish hue. 

Opinions differ concerning the esculent qualities of the Field 
mushroom. According to Berkeley it is inferior to the Common 
mushroom, and Badham says its flavor and odor are strong, and 
it is generally shunned by English epicures. On the other hand, 
Persoon says it is superior to the Common mushroom in smell, 
taste and digestibility, and it is, therefore, generally i)referred in 
France. Vittadini also says it is very delicate and easy of diges- 
tion, but has a stronger odor than the Common mushroom. 
" Very sapid and very nutritious," " odor feeble, but flavor anise- 
like and very agreeable," " delicious when young and fresh, but 
tough when old," are opinions expressed by various writers. One 
author says it is edible and of exquisite flavor, and both these ex- 
pressions have been perpetuated in two of the synonyms of the 
species, Agaricus edulis Kromh. and Agaricus exqidsUus Vitt. 



142 KKPOET OF TUB 8TATK BOTANIST. 

Agaricus placomyces Peck. 
Flat oai" ]\Io8heoom. 

Plate 9. Figa. 7 to IS. 

Pileus thin, at first convex, becoming flat with age, whitish, 
brown in the center and elsewhere adorned with minute brown 
scales ; lamellie close, white, then pinkish, finally blackish-brown ; 
stem smooth, annulate, stuffed or hollow, bulbous, white or 
whitish, the bulb often stained with yellow ; si)ores elliptical, 
.0002 to .00025 in. long. 

The Flat cap mushroom is a rare but a beautiful species. Its 
cap is convex or somewhat bell-shaped when young, but when 
mature it is nearly or quite flat. Its brown center and its nu- 
merous minute brown scales on a whitish background give it a 
very ornamental appearance. It becomes darker with age. 

Its gills, which in the very young plant are white or nearly 
so, pass through the usual shades of i)ink and brown with advanc- 
ing age. 

The stem is rather long and swollen into a bulb at the base. 
It sometimes tapers slightly toward the top near which it bears 
a thin flabby membranous collar. It may be either stuffed with 
a pith or hollow. It is white or whitish, but the bulb is some- 
times stained with yellow. 

Cap two to four inches broad, stem three to live inches long, 
one-fourth to nearly one-half an inch thick. 

It grows in the borders of hemlock woods or under hemlock 
trees from July to September. It has been eaten by Mr. C. L. 
Shear, who pronounces it very good. I have not found it in suffi- 
cient quantity to give it a trial. This mushroom is very closely 
related to the AVood mushroom or Silvan mushroom, ^yaz-iVM^st?- 
vatlcus, a species which is also recorded as edible, but which is 
apparently more rare in our State than even the Flat cap mush- 
room. This differs from the Silvan mushroom in its paler color, 
in having the cap more minutely, persistently and regularly scaly, 
and in its being destitute of a prominent center. In the Silvan 
mushroom the scales, when present, are few, and they disappear 
with age. 

Having had no opportunity to make the drawings of the 
Bleeding mushroom, .ilyaWciw heinorrhoidarius, &nd of the Silvan 



EBPOKT OF THE STATE BOTAHIST. "3 

mushroom, Agaricus silmticus, and not having tested their edible 

qualities, they are, for the present, dismissed from further 

consideration. 

Coprinus Pers. 

The genus Coprinus is easily distinguished from all others by 
the character of the gills of the mature plant. These assume a 
black color and slowly dissolve into an inky fluid which, in the 
larger plants at least, falls to the ground in drops. The thin caps 
of some species also partly or wholly waste away in this manner. 
Because of the production of this black fluid, which has some- 
times been used as a poor substitute for ink, these plants have 
received the name " inky fungi." In a few species the spores are 
brown, but generally they are black. Some of the plants liter- 
ally grow up in a night and perish in a day. Many of the species 
inhabit dung or manure heaps, as the generic name implies. Most 
of them are so small, thin and perishable that they are not valu- 
able as food. Even the larger ones have thin caps, and those 
deemed edible should be gathered when young and cooked 
promptly if used as food. Three species are here noticed. 

Cap whitish C- comatus. 

Cap grayish or grayish-brown C. atramentarius. 

Cap buflE-yellow or tawny-yellow C . mioaceus. 

Ooprinus comatus Fr. 

ShAUUY COPEINUS. 
Plate 10. 

Pileus at first oblong or nearly cylindrical, becoming campanu- 
late or expanded and splitting on the margin, adorned with scat- 
tered yellowish scales, whitish ; lamelliB crowded, white, then 
tinged wiih red or pink, finally black and dripping an inky fluid ; 
stem rather long, hollow, smooth or sligbtly librillose, white or 
whitish, at first with a slight movable annulus ; spores elliptical, 
black, .0005 to .0007 in. long. 

The Shaggy coprinus, or Maned agaric as it is sometimes called, 
is one of the^largest and finest species of the genus. When young 
the cap is quite long and jarrow, but with advancing age the 
margin spreads outward, becomes split in several places and 
curves upward. The surface is adorned with loose fibrils and 
with scales or spots which appear to be due to the breaking up 



144 BBPOBT OF THE BTATK BOTANIST. 

of an epidermis which remains entire in a small patch on the 
very top of the cap. Except the top and the scales the cap is 
white, but in mature plants it often becomes sordid or blackish 
toward the thin margin as if it were stained or soaked by the 
inky fluid formed from the gills. 

The gills at lirst are closely crowded together and white, but 
soon pinkisli, reddish or purplish tints appear, which quickly 
change to black. Sometimes all these hues may be seen at one 
time in one plant. 

The stem is white, smooth and hollow. In the young plant it 
is furnished with a collar which is movable or but slightly ad- 
herent. It is easily destroyed and has often disappeared at 
maturity. 

The cap is one and a half to three inches long before expan- 
sion. The stem is three to five inches long and one-fourth to 
one-third of an inch thick. It grows in rich loose earth by road- 
sides, in pastures, waste places or dumping grounds. It appears 
in autumn and may sometimes be found (juite late in the season. 
It is quite fragile and must be handled with care. It is very 
tender and digestible and scarcely inferior to the Common mush- 
room in flavor, though some think it is improved in flavor by 
cooking a mushroom or two with it. It is lit for the table only 
before the gills have assumed their black color, but even after 
that it is sometimes used in making catsup. 

" When young it is very sapid and delicate;" " cooked quickly 
in butter with pepper and salt, it is excellent;" "edible, tender 
and delicious ; " " in flavor it much resembles the Common mush- 
room, to which it is quite equal, if not superior ; it is clearly more 
digestible and less likely to disagree with persons of delicate con- 
stitutions," are opinions recorded iu its favor. 

Coprinus atramentarius i'>. 
Inky Copkinus. 

PloteU. Figs. 7 to 11. 

Pileus at first ovate, becoming expanded, glabrous or with a 
few obscure, spot-like scales in the center, grayish-brown ; lamelhe 
crowded, at first whitish and ilocculose on the edge, then black ; 
stem glabrous, lioUow, white or whitish ; spores elliptical, black, 
.0003 to .0004 in. long. 



BBPOET OF THK STATE BOTAUIST. 



148 



The Inky coprinus is much less attractive in its appearance than 
the Shaggy coprinus. Its cap is quite smooth except on the disk, 
which is sometimes spotted with a few obscure scales. The color 
is grayish or grayish-brown, sometimes with a slight suggestion 
of lead color. The margin is sometimes ii*regularly notched or 
lobed. 

The gills are at first crowded and whitish, but they soon be- 
come black and moist and gradually dissolve away, forming an 
inky dripping fluid which is suggestive of the name of the spe- 
cies, and which may be used as ink. 

The stem is rather slender, smooth and hollow. It sometimes 
has a slight vestige of a collar near the base, but it soon 
disappears. 

The cap varies from one to three inches or more in diameter, 
the stem is two to four inches long, one-sixth to one-third of an 
inch thick. 

It grows in clusters in rich soil, in gardens, waste places or in 
woods, and appears in late summer or in autumn. The form 
growing in woods is generally smaller and more beautiful than 
that growing in open places. It may be called var. siloestris. 

The cap sometimes appears as if suffused with a bloom. It 
deliquesces rapidly and it is, therefore, more available for catsup 
than for food. If intended for the table it must be cooked as 
soon as brought to the house. In Europe both this and the pre- 
ceding species appear in spring as well as in summer and autumn, 
but I have not seen them early in the season in our State. 

Coprinus micaceus Fr. 

Glistening Copbinos. 

Plate 11. Figs. 1 to 6. 

Pileus thin, at first ovate, then campanulate or expanded, 
striate, sometimes glistening with shining particles when young, 
buff-yellow or tawny-yellow; lamellte crowded, whitish, then 
tinged with pinkish or purplish-brown, finally black ; stem slender, 
fragile, hollow, white ; spores elliptical, brown, .00025 to .0003 in. 

long. 

The Glistening coprinus is a small but common and beautiful 
species. Its cap is somewhat bell-shaped and marked with 
impressed lines or striations from the margin to or beyond the 
19 



146 HKPOHT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

middle. The center is smooth and often a little more highly- 
colored than the rest. The glistening particles which are sug- 
gestive of the name of this little mushroom are not often notice- 
able, and when present on the young cap they often disappear 
with age. The margin is frequently notched or lobed and wavy 
and it is apt to become split as the cap expands. The color varies 
from a pale whitish buff to tawny-yellow or reddish-ochraceous. 
It becomes sordid or brownish in old age, especially if wet or 
water-soaked. 

The gills, as in the preceding species, are at first crowded and 
whitish, but they soon change color, becoming pinkish tinted and 
then brown and black. 

The stem is slender, fragile, smooth, hollow and white. The 
brown color of the spores is unusual in this genus. 

Cap one to two inches broad, stem one to three inches long, 
rarely thicker than a pipe stem. 

The Glistening coprinus grows in clusters on the ground or on 
decaying wood. It occurs from May to November. It appears 
in wet weather and sometimes seems to anticipate rain, starting 
to grow two or three days before a rain storm. Several success- 
ive crops often come up about a single old stump in one season. 
When a cluster appears to grow from the ground it is quite prob- 
able that it really starts from some decaying root or other piece 
of wood buried in the earth. It is not uncommon to find it grow- 
ing from places in the margin of the sidewalks of our cities 
where shade trees have been cut down, the decaying stump and 
roots furnishing the necessary habitat. In such cases the boys of 
the street delight in kicking the clusters to pieces and stamping 
them out of existence, thinking probably that they are abund- 
antly justified in destroying a vile toadstool which might other- 
wise be the means of poisoning some one. These tufts are some- 
times very large and composed of very many plants closely 
crowded together. Sometimes the caps crack into small areas, 
the white llesh showing itself in the chinks. 

European writers do not record the Glistening coprinus among 
the edible species, perhaps because of its small size. But it com- 
pensates for its lack of size by its frequency and abundance, and 
it has the advantage of being easily and frequently procurable. 
In tenderness and delicacy it does not appear to me to be at all 



BEPOET OF THB STATE B0TAH18T. 



147 



inferior to the Shaggy coprinus, and it certainly is harmless, for 
it has been eaten repeatedly by various persons and always with- 
out iU results. It was published as edible in the Twenty seventh 
Eeport. 

Ochrosporae. 
Members of this section may be known by the ochraceous hues 
of their spores. The color may vary somewhat, being ochraceous, 
rusty-ochraceous or brownish-cchraceous in different species. The 
recorded edible species occur in three genera, Pholiota, Cortina- 
rius and Paxillus. No species of the first genus has been proved 
by me. 

Cortinarius Fr. 
Of the genus Cortinarius, eight species have been classed as 
edible by English writers. Four of these occur in our State, and 
three of them have been tried. The genus contains many species, 
and it is almost certain that several others will yet be found to 
be esculent. The genus is distinguished especially by the nisty- 
ochraceous color of the spores and by the webby character of the 
veil. In the young plant fine webby filaments stretch from the 
margin of the cap to the stem, and in many species these are so 
numerous that they at first conceal the gills, but they mostly 
disappear with advancing age and leave little or no trace of a 
collar on the stem. In some instances a few filaments adhere to 
the stem and afford a lodgment for the falling spores, in conse- 
quence of which a rusty-brown stain or iUdefined band of color 
is seen on the upper part of the stem. 

In young plants the color of the gills is generally quite unlike 
that of mature ones. In these the gills become dusted by the 
spores and assume their color, so that there is great uniformity 
in the color of the gills of mature plants in all the species. It is, 
therefore, of the utmost importance in identifying species of 
Cortinarius to know the color of the gills of the young plant. In 
all the species they are attached to the stem at their inner extrem- 
ity, and generally they are emarginate. Most of the species grow 
in woods or groves or along their borders, and are especially 
found in late summer and autumn in hilly or mountainous 
regions. 



148 BBPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

The three species here described may be tabulated as follows: 

Stem not l)ulbou8 1 

Stem with a bulbous base C. violaceus. 

1 Cap viscid or glutinous when moist C. collinitus. 

1 Cap not vigcid, dry and fibrillose C. cinnamomeus. 

Cortinarius violaceus -?5-. 
Violet Coetinaeios. 

Plate U. 

Pileus convex, becoming nearly plane, dry, adorned with 
numerous persistent hairy tufts or scales, dark violet ; lamella* 
rather thick, distant, rounded or deeply notched at the inner 
extremity, colored like the pileus in the young plant, brownish- 
cinnamon in the mature plant ; stem solid, fibrillose, bulbous, 
colored like the pileus ; spores subelliptical, .0005 in. long. 

The Violet cortinarius is a very beautiful mushroom and one 
easy of recognition. At first the whole plant is uniformly 
colored, but with age the gills assume a dingy ochraceous or 
brownish-cinnamon hue. The cap is generally well formed and 
regular and is beautifully adorned with little hairy scales or tufts. 
These are rarely shown in figures of the European plant, but they 
are quite noticeable in the American plant and should not be 
overlooked. The flesh is more or less tinged with violet. 

The gills when young are colored like the cap. They are 
rather broad, notched at the inner extremity and narrowed 
toward the margin of the cap. When mature they become 
dusted with the spores whose color they take. 

The stem also is colored like the cap. It is swollen into a bulb 
at the base and sometimes a faint rusty-ochraceous band may be 
seen near the top. This is due to the falling spores which lodge 
on the webby filaments of the veil remaining attacheil to the 
stem. 

Cap two to four inches broad, stem three to five inches long, 
about half an inch thick. 

The Violet cortinarius grows among fallen leaves in the woods 
of our hilly and mountainous districts, in July and August. I 
have never found it in the open country. It is solitary or scat- 
tered in its growth and not very plentiful. Nevertheless it is a 
very good species to eat, and when botanizing in the extensive 



EEPOBT OF THE 8TATK BOTANIST 149 

forests of the Adirondack region it afforded an excellent and 
very much relished addition to our bill of fare. It retains some- 
thing of its color when cooked, and in consequence a dish of Vio- 
let mushrooms is scarcely as attractive to the eyes as to the 
palate. 

Cortinarius collinitus Fr. 

Smeaeed Coetinarios. 

Plate 13. Figs. 1 to 6. 

Pileus convex, obtuse, glabrous, glutinous when moist, shining 
when dry ; lamelk« rather broad, dingy-white or grayish when 
young ; stem cylindrical, solid, viscid or glutinous when moist, 
transversely cracking when dry, whitish or paler than the pileus ; 
spores subelliptical, .0005 to .0006 in. long. 

The Smeared cortinarius is much more common than the Vio- 
let cortinarius and has a much wider range. Both the cap and 
stem are covered with a viscid substance or gluten which makes 
it unpleasant to handle. The cap varies in color from yellow to 
golden or tawny-yellow and when the gluten on it has dried it is 
very smooth and shining. The flesh is white or whitish. The 
young gills have a peculiar bluish-white or ding^^-white color 
which might be called grayish or clay color, but when mature 
they assume the color of the spores. They are sometimes min- 
utely uneven on the edge. 

The stem is straight, solid, cylindrical and usually paler than 
the cap. When the gluten on it dries it cracks transversely, giv- 
ing to the stem a peculiar scaly appearance. 

The cap is one and a half to three inches broad, and the stem 
two to four inches long and one-fourth to one-half inch thick. 

The plant grows ia thin woods, copses and partly-cleared 
lands and may be found from August to September. 

It is well to peel the caps before cooking, since the gluten 
causes dirt and rubbish to adhere tenaciouslv to tnem. 

Cortinarius cinnamomeus Pr, 
Cinnamon Coetinaeius. 

Plate 13. Figo. 7 to 30. 

Pileus thill, convex, obtuse or umbonate, dry, fibrillose at least 
when young, flesh yellowish ; lamellee thin, close, adnate ; stem 
slender, equal, stuffed or hollow \ spores elliptical, .0003 in. long. 



150 KEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

The Oinnamoa cortinarius is smaller than either of the forego- 
ing species, but it is more abundant. It is quite variable in size, 
shape and color. The cap is generally convex at first, but often 
expands until it is nearly flat. Sometimes it has a central prom- 
inence or umbo. It is more or less coated, at least when young, 
with minute silky fibrils, but sometimes becomes smoothish with 
age. Its color is commonly cinnamon-brown, brownish-och- 
raceous or tawny-brown. The gills are some shade of yellow 
when young, except in one variety, but when mature they assume 
the color of the spores. The stem is rather slender, often Ilex- 
uous, fibrillose or silky, stuffed or hoUosv when old, and yellowish 
or colored like the cap, or a little paler. 

In the Half-red variety, Variety semisanguineus, figures 15 to 
20, the young gills have a dark blood-red color This perhaps 
ought to be considered a distinct species. 

The cap is usually one to two inches broad, the stem one to 
three inches long and one-fourth of an inch thick or less. The 
plant grows in woods or their borders, under trees or in mossy 
swamps. Like many flowering plants which have a wide range 
and are not particular as to their habitat, this mushroom is per- 
plexing because of its variability, but it is believed that the de- 
scription and figures here given will make it recognizable. The 
fresh plant often has a slight odor like that of radishes. 

Paxillus J^. 

The genus Paxillus is characterized by its gills which are 
easily and smoothly separable from the cap just as the tubes of a 
Boletus are, from the cap that supjwrts them. They are reticu- 
lately connected at the base in the single species here considered. 
The spores are ochraceous. 

Paxillus involutus J<V, 
Involute Paxillos. 

Plate 28. Fi^s. 18 to 23. 

Pilous compact, convex at first, soon expanded and centrally 
depressed, nearly glabrous, grayish-buff or ochraceous-brown or 
yellowish ferruginous, the margin involute and when young cov- 
ered with a grayish tomcntum ; lamella? close, decurrent, branched 
and reticulately connected behind, whitish, then yellowish or sub- 
ferruginous, changing to roddish-browi where cut or bruised ; 



BKPOET OF THE 8TATB B0TAKI8T 



151 



Stem central or eccentric, solid, glabrous, colored like the pUeus ; 
spores elliptical, .0U03 to .0004 in. long. 

The Involute paxillus is somewhat variable in color and exhib- 
its a strange admixture of gray, ochraceous, ferruginous and 
brown hues, sometimes one being more prominent, sometimes 
another. It is apt to be viscid when moist and shining when 
dry. The margin is rolled inwards in the young plant, and is 
adorned with a grayish tomentum or villosity. It sometimes ex- 
hibits short markings as in figures 20 and 21. The flesh is not a 
clear white, but tinged with gray. 

The gills are at first whitish, but they become yellowish or 
rust colored with advancing age and assume brownish or red- 
dish brown stains where cut or bruised. They are decurrent and 
a little wavy and reticulately connected where they run down on 
the stem. The interspaces between them are marked with veins. 
The stem is generally shorter than the diameter of the cap acd 
solid. It is colored nearly like the cap and is sometimes adorned 
with a few darker spots. 

Cap two to four inches broad, stem one to three inches long, 
one-third to one-half an inch thick. 

The Involute paxillus grows in woods either on the ground or 
on decayed wood. It grows singly or in groups and seems to 
like damp mossy soil well filled with vegetable matter. It is 
common in cool hemlock or spruce woods, but occurs also in 
mixed woods, and along the borders of marshes. When grow- 
ing on old decayed stumps or the prostrate moss-covered trunks 
of'trees the stem is sometimes eccentric, but in other cases it is 
generally central. It appears from August to November. 
° It is sometimes called the Brown chantarelle, but it is scarcely 
a rival of the true chantarelle. Most authors record it as edible 
but they do not praise it highly Richon and Roze say it is 
edible but scarcely to be recommended. Letellier on the other 
hand says it can be employed as food with much advantage. It 
is also said' to be held in high estimation in Russia. With us it 
is scarcely available except to people living near damp woods or 

swamps. 

Rhodosporse. 

The name of this section, which in some works bears the name 
Hyporhodii, indicates that the spores are red, but their color is 



153 EBPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

really a peculiar pinkish or rosy hue commonly described as 
flesh color or salmon color. It is a combination of ochraceous 
and pink. The mature gills usually have this color. Only a 
few species of this section are known to be edible and some have 
been thought to be unwholesome. There are several genera, but 
the species here considered belong to one only. 

Clitopilus Fr. 
The species of this genus are separable from all others of the 
section by their fleshy stem and decurrent gills. Mushrooms of 
similar structure occur in the genus Clitocybe which belongs to 
the section characterized by white spores. Their gills also are 
generally white in the mature plant. The pink-gilled species 
need not be confused with the Common mushroom and those of 
its relatives that have the gills of a pink color while young, for 
in them the pink color is soon replaced by brown or blackish- 
brown, but in these the gills retain their pinkish hue and never 
assume darker colors. Besides, in the Common mushroom and its 
allies the gills are not attached to the stem by their inner 
extremity, but in the species of this genus they are. Many 
species, not of this genus only but also of other genera in this 
section, have the gills white or whitish in the young plant, but 
with advancing age they assume the more permanent pinkish hue. 

Clitopilus prunulus «S'cqp. 
Plum Clitopilus. 

Plate 14. Figs. 1 to 6. 

Pileus fleshy, compact, broadly convex or nearly plane, some- 
times centrally depressed, dry, suffused with a bloom, whitish or 
grayish, the margin sometimes wavy; lamelkc somewhat distant, 
decurrent, at first whitish, becoming salmon colored ; stem glab- 
rous, solid, white ; spores oblong elliptical, pointed at each end, 
.0004 to .00045 in. long. 

The Plum clitopilus is not a common species with us, and when 
it does occur it is not in abundance. Its cap is white or whitish 
inclining to grayish with the center sometimes decidedly darker 
than the margin. It is dry and firm and often seems to be 
covered with a bloom. Its flesh is white and the plant has an 
odor like that of meal. 



BEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 153 

The gills are at first nearly white but they assume a pale-pink 
or salmon color with age. They run down on the stem. 

The stem is solid, smooth and white. 

Cap two to three inches broad, stem one to two inches long, one- 
fourth to one-half an inch thick. This plant is found in woods 
in warm wet weather in July and August. It is solitary or there 
are but few^ individuals in a place. English writers speak highly 
of it as an esculent, and class it among the most delicious of edible 
species. Gillet says that it is one of the best mushrooms that 
can be found. 

Clitopilus orcella Bull. 

Sweetbread MnsHROOM. 

Plate 14. Figs. 7 to 11. 

Pileus fleshy, soft, broidly convex or nearly plane, generally 
irregular and wavy on the margin, silky, white or yellowish- 
white; lamellte close, decurrent ; stem short, solid, flocculose, 
sometimes eccentric ; spores oblong-elliptical, pointed at each 
end, .00035 to .0004 in. long. 

The Sweetbread mushroom is so much like the Plum mushrocm 
that it is not surprising that they have been regarded as forms of 
one species. The differences indicated in the descriptions would 
make the Sweetbread mushroom generally a little smaller and 
less regular, the flesh softer, the cap slightly viscid in wet 
weather and a clearer white, and the gills a little closer together. 
Intermediate forms seem to connect the two supposed species, 
and however interesting the differences may be to botanists, the 
mushroom eater will scarcely' try to keep the two forms separate. 
Both have the farinaceous odor and are not verv different in taste 
Some have considered the Sweetbread mushroom as slightly 
superior in the delicacy of its flavor. Both are good enough. 
The Sweetbread mushroom sometimes grows in pastures and open 
places. Miss Banning sometimes finds it growing in rings after 
the manner of the Fairy-ring mushroom. She finds some plants 
with the usual strong new- meal odor, others with but little odor 
and all with a flavor suggestive of cucumbers. 

Leucosporse. 

The Leucosporae or white-spored agarics are distributed among 
many genera. The species are more numerous than in any other 

20 



154 EEPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

section and many of them are edible. On the other hand, our 
most dangerous species occur in this section. The spores are 
generally white, as the name of the section indicates, but in a 
few cases they have a dingy or sordid-white hue, and in several 
species they are pale-yellow. In one or two species not found 
within the limits of our State they have a green color, but these 
are not yet recorded as edible species. In one mushroom the 
spores assume a pale-lilac tint after a brief exposure to the air 
and light. Pale-yellow spores occur especially in the genera 
Cantharellus, Laclarius and Ilussula. 

Our edible species are found in about a dozen genera. The 
subjoined anal^'tical table will serve to indicate the leading char- 
acters of each genus and ma}' be used as a guide or an aid in 
tracing any species to its proper genus. 

Plant with a membranous sheath at the base of the 

stem or with superficial warts on the cap 1 

Plant destitute of such sheath and warts 2 

1 Stem furnislied with a collar Amanita. 

1 Stem destitute of a collar Amanitopsis. 

2 Gills narrow, obtuse on the edge Cantharellus. 

2 Gills acute on the edge 3 

8 Gills somewhat waxy in texture Hygrophorus^ 

3 Gills not waxy in texture 4 

4 Cap eccentrically or laterally attached to the stem 

or stemless Pleurotus. 

4 Cap centrally attached to the stem 5 

6 Gills free from the stem Lepiota. 

5 Gills attached to the stem 6 

6 Stem furnished with a collar Armillaria. 

6 Stem destitute of a collar 7 

7 Stem brittle 8 

7 Stem not brittle 8 

8 Gills exuding a white or colored juice where 

wounded , Lactarius . 

8 Gills exuding no juice where wounded Russula. 

9 Dry plant reviving on the application of moisture. . . Marasmius. 
9 Plant putrescent, not reviving on the application of 

moisture 10 

10 Edge of the gills notched or excavated at the stem Tricholoma. 
10 Edge of the gills even , Clitocybe. 



EEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 155 

Amanita Pers. 
In the genus Amanita the very young plant is enveloped in a 
membrane or a tomentose wrapper which is ruptured by the 
.growth of the plant. In some species the remains of the rup- 
tured wrapper persist about the base of the stem, forming a kind 
of cup or sheath; in others, a part of the wrapper is carried up 
on the surface of the cap and adheres to it in small irregular 
patches or in the shape of numerous small warts or prominences 
which are easily separable from it. It sometimes happens that 
these superficial warts are washed ofif by heavy rains. The cap 
in most of the species is regular and broadly convex or nearly 
flat when mature, and in some instances it is slightly sticky or 
viscid when moist. The gills are free from the stem and the 
stem is furnished with a membranous collar. These plants are 
generally large and attractive in appearance. Inasmuch as our 
most dangerous species belong to this genus it is very important 
that the specific characters of the edible ones should be thor- 
oughly understood by those who would use them for food. Mis- 
takes here are attended with too much risk to be lightly made. 
Some would counsel the rejection of all species of Amanita 
because of the presence in it of some poisonous ones ; but it would 
be as reasonable to say we will eat no parsnips because the poison 
hemlock belongs to the same family, or no potatoes, tomatoes or 
egg plant because the deadly night shade is closely related. The 
only thing necessary is the ability to separate the good from the 
bad in one case just as we do in the other. 

Amanita caesarea Scop. 
Okange Amanita. 

Plate IS. 

Pilens glabrous, striate on the margin, red or orange, fading to 
yellow on the margin ; lamelh^ yellow ; stem annulate ; loosely 
sheathed at the base by the ruptured membranous white volva, 
yellow ; spores elliptical, white, .0003 to .0004 in. long. 

The Orange amanita is a large, attractive and beautiful species. 
When very young the cap and stem are contained in a white 
membranous envelope or wrapper not very much unlike a hen's 
eiTo- in size, shape and color. As the parts within develop, the 



156 KEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

wrapper ruptures in its upper part, the stem elongates and carries 
upward the cap, while the remains of the wrapper surround the 
base of the stem like an open sack or loose sheath. The cap is 
at first red or orange, but with advancing age it fades to yellow 
on the margin. Sometimes the whole cap becomes yellow. In 
dried specimens the red color often wholly disappears. The 
margin, even in the young plant, is marked by distinct impressed 
parallel radiating lines or striations. The flesh is white but 
more or less stained with yellow under the separable epidermis 
and next the line of attachment of the lamellce or gills. Its taste 
is mild and pleasant. As in most of our other species of Amanita, 
the cap, when fully expanded, is nearly flat above, and when moist 
its surface is slightly sticky or viscid. 

The gills are rounded at the extremity next the stem and are 
free, that is, not attached or grown fast to the stem. They are 
yellow, and in this respect are unlike the gills of nearly all the 
other edible species of mushrooms here described. Generally the 
color of the gills in the mature plant resembles the color of the 
spores of that plant, but in this species we have an e.'cception. 

The stem and the flabby membranous collar that surrounds it 
toward the top are yellow like the gills, though sometimes they 
are stained in places by darker or saffron-colored hues. The 
stem of the young plant contains in its center a soft cottony sub- 
stance or pith, but with advancing age this disappears and the 
st'.'m is hollow. This character generally holds good in all the 
species of Amanita here described. In the ver}' young plant the 
outer edge of the collar is attached to the margin of the cap and 
thereby it covers and conceals the gills, but with the elongation 
of the stem and the expansion of the cap, the collar separates 
from the margin and remains attached to the stem only. 

The expanded cap is usually three to six inches broad, the stem 
four to six inches long and a half inch or more in thickness. 
Sometimes these dimensions are exceeded. 

The plant grows chieily during rainy weather or just aftei 
heavy rains, in July, August and September. It is found in thin 
woods and seems to be especially fond of pine woods and a sandy 
soil. It is not common. It sometimes grows in rings or in the 
arc of a circle. 



BEPOET OF THB STATE BOTANIST. 



157 



This fungus has been held in high estimation as an article of 
food from very ancient times. It was used by the Greeks and 
Komans and having graced the table of a Roman emperor it 
received the name " Ctesar s mushroom," whence the botanical 
name. Oue ancient writer terms it "Cibus Deorum," the 
food of the gods. Imperial mushroom, Orange mushroom, 
true Orange, Yellow-egg and Kaiserling are other names 
applied to it. 

All authors who have written concerning its esculent qualities 
agree in characterizing it as " delicious." Cordier says that it is 
an exception to the general rule that young plants are better for 
food than those fully grown. The inference is that the mature 
individuals are just as tender and sapid as the young ones. I 
have not tested this point. No charge or even suspicion of noxi- 
ous quality seems to have been entertained against it in any case. 

There is but one harmful species with which it is possible to 
confuse the Orange amanita. It is the Fly amanita, Amanita 
muscaria. These two resemble each other in size, shape and 
color of the cap, but in other respects they are quite distinct. 
The chief distinctive characters may be contrasted as follows : 

Orange amanita. Cap smooth, gills yellow, stem yellow, virix^ 
T^QV persistently memhranotis, white. 

Fly amanita. Cap warty, gills white, stem white or slightly yel. 
lowish, wrapper soon broken into fragments or scales, white or 
yellowish. 

In Europe there is said to be a variety of the Orange amanita 
with the cap wholly white or whitish, but no such variety has 
yet been recorded in this country. 

Amanita rubescens Fr. 

Reddish Amanita. 

Plate 16. 

Pileus warty, even or but slightly striate on the margin, more 
or less tinged with dingy-red or brownish-red hues; lamellas 
white or whitish ; stem annulate, bulbous at the base, whitish, 
but generally with dull reddish stains, especially toward the base ; 
spores elliptical, .0003 to .00035 in. long. 

The Reddish amanita has a peculiarly sordid and uninviting 
appearance, owing to the dingy character of its colors. The 



158 BEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

wrapper which covers the young plant soon breaks up into small 
fragments, those on the cap being carried up with it in the 
growth of the plant and generally remaining on it in the form of 
small wart-like protuberances. The part remaining behind at 
the base of the stem is so fragile and fieeting that nearly all 
traces of it soon disappear, and were it not for the warts on the 
cap and the free lamella; the plant would scarcely be suspected of 
being an Amanita. The warts on the cap are easily removable 
and are sometimes washed off by rain, leaving the cap entirely 
smooth. The margin of the cap is generally even, but some- 
times, especially in fully matured individuals, it is more or less 
striated. While the color is peculiarly duU and sordid it varies 
considerably. The cap may be whitish tinged with pink or red, 
brownish-red or dingy grayish-red. Sometimes it is not uni- 
formly colored but has the margin paler than the center, or there 
may be darker stains in some places. The flesh is white or 
slightly tinged with red. Sometimes wounds of the flesh, gills or 
stem slowly assume a dull reddish color, but this is not a constant 
character. 

The stem has a membranous collar near the top and a bulb at 
its base. In some cases this bulb is quite abrupt, in others it is 
po nted below and gradually narrowed into the stem above. The 
surface of the stem may be smooth in some plants, but generally 
it is more or less adorned below the collar with minute scales or 
mealy or branny particles. It is commonl}^ of a whitish or 
dingy-white color, more or less stained with dull-red, especially 
toward and at the base. The center of the stem is of a looser, 
softer texture than the rest, and in mature plants it sometimes 
becomes hollow. 

Cap tliree to five inches broad, stem three to six inches long, 
and generally about half an inch thick. 

It grows either in woods or in open places, and may be found 
from July to September. 

The Eeddish amanita, as found in New York, is generally of a 
paler color than that indicated by most of the published figures 
of the species. Frequently the cap is almost white, with but a 
slight reddish or brownish-red tint. The strong distinguishing 
character of the species is the almost entire absence of any 
remains of the wrapper at the base of the stem. By this and by 



BKPOBT OF THE BTATE BOTANIST. 159 

the presence of the dull-red hues and stains it may be distin- 
guished from any of our poisonous species. 

Some writers have referred to this species as of doubtful qual- 
ity, suspected character or as poisonous, but later authors agree 
in classing it with the edible species. According to Cordier it is 
largely used in the eastern part of France, and is one of the most 
delicate mushrooms. Gillet agrees with him in this opinion. 
Cooke says it is pleasant both in taste and smell, and is a very 
common, safe and useful species. Stevenson records it as delicious 
and perfectly wholesome. 

Amanitopsis Jioze. 

The principal feature wherein the genus Amanitopsis dififers 
from Amanita is in the absence of a collar from the stem. Its 
species were formerly included in Amanita. We have one edible 
species. 

Amanitopsis vaginata Roze. 

Sheathed Amanitopsis. 

Plate 17. 

Pileus rather thin, fragile, glabrous or adorned when young 
with one or more adhering fragments of the volva, deeply and 
distinctly striated on the margin ; lamellie free, white or whitish ; 
stem destitute of an annulus, sheathed at the base by the torn 
remains of the rather long, thin, flabby volva; spores globose, 
white, .0003 to .0004 in. broad. 

The Sheathed amanitopsis is distinguished from any species of 
Amanita by the absence of a collar from the stem. 

In this plant the cap is quite smooth except in rare instances in 
which one or two fragments of the ruptured wrapper adhere to 
it for a time. The striations on the margin are deep and distinct, 
as in the Orange amanita. The cap is quite regular, but it is 
fragile and easily broken. In some instances a slight blunt pi-o- 
tuberance or umbo develops at its center. It varies considerably 
in color, and several varieties depending on this variation have 
been described. 

The flesh is white, but in the darker-colored forms it is grayish 
under the separable epidermis. 



160 BEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

The gills are white or whitish and are gradually more narrow 
toward the stem. The stem is often smooth but generally it is 
sprinkled with minute mealy or branny particles or floccose scales, 
especially in young and vigorous specimens and in the dark- 
colored forms. It is either hollow or stuffed with a cottony ]nth. 
It is not bulbous, but it is sheathed at the base with a soft, flabby, 
torn membrane, the remains of the wrapper. This adheres so 
slightly to the stem that if the plant is carelessly pulled the sheath 
is left in the ground. 

The cap is two to four inches broad ; the stem, three to five 
inches long and one-fourth to one-half an inch thick. 

The plant grows singly or scattered in woods or in open places. 
It is common in the deep damp vegetable mold of dense evergreen 
woods in mountainous regions, but is not limited to such localities. 
It is found in almost all parts of the State and on a great variety 
of soil. It sometimes grows on much decayed wood. It occurs 
from June to October. 

In the white variety, A^ariety alha, the whole plant is white. 
This is A. nivalis (Grev.) and A.fimgites (Batsch.). 

In Variety yw^ya, A.fulva (Schjeff) figures 1 to 4, the tawny 
variety, the cap is tawny-yellow or pale ochraceous. 

In the livid variety. Variety livida, the cap has a livid or 
leaden-brown color and the gills and stem are more or less tinged 
with a smoky-brown hue. This is A. livida and A. spadicea 
(Pers.). See figures 5 to 9. 

Some of the older authors placed the sheathed mushroom among 
the doubtful or suspected species, but more reoent writers gener- 
ally admit that it is edible. My own experience indicates that it is 
scarcely first class, though some pronounce it "delicate," "delici- 
ous," etc. 

Lepiota Fr. 

The species of Lepiota have the gills typicall}' free from the 
stem, as in Amanita and Amanitopsis, but they differ in having 
no superficial or removable warts on the cap, and no sheathing or 
scaly remains of a wrapper at the base of the stem. In some 
species the epidermis of the cap breaks into scales which persist- 
ently adhere to the cap, and this feature, indeed, suggests the 
name of the genus, which is derived from the Latin word lepis, 
a scale. 



HEPOKT OF THE STATE B jTANlST. 161 

Our State is favored with at least two very good edible species, 
both of which are easily recognized, if the generic characters are 
kept in mind. 

Cap scaly, umbonate L. procera. 

Cap smooth, not umbonate L. naueinoides. 

Lepiota procera Scop. 
Paeasoi, Mushroom. Tall Lepiota. 

Plate 18. 

Pileus thin, umbonate, adorned with brown spot-like scales ; 
lamellae white or yellowish-white, free, remote from the stem; 
stem very long, annulate, hollow, bulbous ; spores large, ellipti- 
cal, .0005 to .0007 inch long. 

The Parasol mushroom is a very neat, graceful and attractive 
species. When \'oung the cap is brownish or reddish-brown and 
somewhat resembles an egg in shape. Its reddish-browm epider- 
mis soon breaks up into numerous fragments, and as the cap 
expands these become more and more separated from each other, 
except on and near the central boss or umbo. As the cap is 
paler beneath the epidermis it appears, when expanded, to be 
variegated by brown spots or scales. The paler surface has a 
somewhat silky or fibrillose appearance, minute fibrils radiating 
from the center toward the circumference. The cap sometimes 
becomes fully expanded, but usually it maintains a convex form 
like an opened umbrella or parasol. This form, together with 
the prominent umbo and the long slender stem, is very suggest- 
ive of the conimuii name of this fungus. The flesh is soft, dry, 
slightly tough and white. It has no unpleasant odor or flavor. 

The gills are whitish or slightly tinged with yellow. They are 
elosely placed side by side, narrower toward the stem than 
toward the margin, and their inner extremity is so far from the 
stem that a conspicuous clear space is left about it. 

The stem is very long in proportion to its thickness and is, 
therefore, suggestive of the specific name procera. It has a 
rather thick, firm collar, which in the mature plant generally 
becomes loosened and movable on it like a ring. At the base it 
swells out and forms a bulb. Generally the part below the collar 
is variegated b}' numerous small brownish dots or scales, but 
these are by no means a constant character. The stem is hollow 
or it sometimes contains a soft cottony or webby pith. 
21 



162 KEPOET OF THE STATB BOTANIST. 

Cap three to five inches broad, stem five to ten inches long, 
one-fourth to one-half an inch thick. 

This plant grows in thin woods, in fields and pastures and by- 
roadsides. It usually grows singly or scattered, but sometimes 
in clusters. It may be found from July to September, but, 
unfortunately, it is not very common with us. 

The Parasol mushroom has been highly commended and is evi- 
dently a first class edible species. " One of the most delicate 
species, although the flesh is slightly tough," "almost the greatest, 
if not the greatest, favorite with fungus eaters," " very delicate, 
of easy digestion and in great demand," are some of the recorded 
utterances in its favor. 

There is no poisonous species with which it can be confused or 
for which it can be mistaken. The very tall slender stem with 
its bulbous base, the peculiarly spotted cap with its very prominent 
darker colored umbo, and the broad space or basin about the 
insertion of the stem and between it and the inner extremity of 
the gills, easily distinguish this mushroom. 

There is a form in which the umbo and spot-like scales are 
paler than usual, and the whole plant, except these, is white. I 
regard it as a mere variety of the species. A form without an 
umbo and with a somewhat shaggy appearance to the cap has 
been found in fie western part of the State. It closely resembles 
the Ragged lepiota, Lepiota rhacodes, a species which is also 
edible. Our plant, however, differs from the description of 
L. rhacodes in having larger spores ; these being scarcely smaller 
than those of tlie Parasol mushroom. It is the opinion of some 
botanists that L. procera and L. rhacodes are forms of one species, 
so closely are they related, and in Massee's Fungus Flora the 
latter is considered a mere variety of the former. 

Lepiota naucinoides Pk. 
SM.OGT1I Lkfiota. 

Plate 19. 

Pileus soft, smooth, white or smoky-white ; lamellaj free, white, 
slowly changing with age to a dirty pinkisii-brown or smoky- 
brown color; stem annulate, slightly thickened at the base, colored 
like the pileus ; spores subelliptical, uninucleate, white, .0003 to 
.0004 in. long. 



BEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 163 

The Smooth lepiota is generally rery regular and symmetrical 
in shape and of a pure white color. Rarely the central part of 
the cap is slightly tinged with yellow or with a smoky-white hue, 
which is occasionally dark enough to be called smoky-brown. 
Its surface is nearly always very smooth and even. In rare 
instances a slight mealiness or granular roughness develops on 
the central part of the cap. A very unusual form someti;iies 
occurs in which the surface of the cap is broken into rather large 
thick scales which give it a singular appearance. To this form 
the name Variety squamosa has been applied. 

The gills are a little narrower toward the stem than they are 
in the middle. At the inner extremity they are rounded and not 
attached to the stem. They are white or slightly tinged with 
yellow until maturity or old age when they acquire a slight 
pinkish-brown or even a smoky-brownish color. In dried 
specimens this last color prevails. 

The stem has about the same color as the cap. It has a white 
collar of which the external edge is generally thicker than the 
inner. It sometimes breaks loose from its attachment to the 
stem and becomes a movable ring upon it as in the Parasol 
mushroom. Occasionally in old specimens it becomes torn and 
disappears entirely. Nearly always the stem gradually enlarges 
toward the base and forms a more or less distinct bulb . It is 
hollow, but as in most of the preceding species, the cavity often, 
contains webby or cottony filaments, especially in the immature 
plants. 

Cap two to four inches broad, stem two to three inches long, 
one-fourth to one-half an inch thick. 

The Smooth lepiota grows in grassy places in lawns and pas- 
tures or by roadsides. Rarely it is found in cultivated fields, 
and even in thin woods. It may be found from August to 
November. 

In my estimation this species is scarcely, if at all, inferior in its 
edible qualities to the Common mushroom. Its flesh is thick and 
white and usually tender and savory. It is very free from the 
attacks of insects and growing, as it often does, in places where 
the grass is short and dense, it has a neat, clean and attractive 
appearance. Its gills retain their white color a long time, and 
in this respect it has an advantage over the Common mushroom, 



164 EBPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

in which they soon pass from the delicate pink of youth to the 
repulsive blackish hue of age. One of my correspondents in 
speaking of this species sa^'s " it grows abundantly hero and is 
one of our hnest edible mushrooms. I have taught our people 
to eat it and it is now highly prized in this region." 

It being similar to the Common mushroom in size and color it 
is sometimes confused with that species. But a glance at the 
color of the gills is sufficient to separate the two. The color of 
the spores and the character of the stem and collar are also dis- 
tinguishing differences. It still more closely resembles the 
Chalky mushroom, Aijaricus cretaceus, but the darker color of 
the gills and the brown color of the spores of that species will 
also abundantly distinguish it. Our plant is apparently the 
American representative of the European Lepiota naiicina, to 
which it was formerl}' referred, and from which it scarcely differs 
except in the shape of its spores and in its smoother cap. The 
spores are described by Fries as globose in the European plant. 
All the species here mentioned are edible, so that discrimination 
between them would not be necessary for safety in using any of 
them for food. It is, however, more satisfactory always to recog- 
nize without any doubt the species used for food. Our figures 
and descriptions will enable any one to do so. The Smooth 
lepiota was first recorded as edible in the Twenty-seventh Report, 
where it stands under the name Agaricus naucinus. 

Armillaria J^r. 

The species of Armillaria differ from all the foregoing white 
spored species in having the gills attached to the stem by their 
inner extremity. Like them their spores are white and the stem 
has a collar, but there is no wrapper at the base of the stem as in 
Amanita and Amanitopsis. By the collar the genus differs from 
the other genera which follow. 

Armillaria mellea Vahl. 
lioNEr-coLouKL) Aemillakia. 

Plate 20. 

Pileus adorned with minute tufts of brown or blackish hairs, 
sometimes glabrous, even or when old slightly striate on the 
margin ; lamellaj adnate or slightly tlecurrent, white or whiiish. 



EEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 



165 



becoming sordid wilh age and sometimes variegated with red- 
dish-brown spots ; stem annulate, at length brownish toward the 
base; spores elliptical, white, .U003 to .OUUt in. long. 

The Honey-colored armillaria is very plentiful and extremely 
variable. The cap is generally adorned with numerous minute 
tufts or scales of brown or bla':'kish hairs, which are often more 
dense on the disk or center than toward the margin. In young 
plants they are often so crowded on the disk as to cover it and give 
it a darker hue than the margin has, and they sometimes are so 
fine and matted tha,t they have a kind of woolly or tomento e 
appearance. In some forms of the species they are entirely 
wanting, or they disappear with age. The cap is sometimes 
charged with moisture, and as this evaporates the color becomes 
slightly paler. Its color varies from almost white to a dark red- 
dish-brown, which is shown in figure 4. The most common hue 
is a brownish-yellow shown in the lower figures of the plate. 
The margin of the cap in mature plants is commonly striated, 
but forms are not rare in which no striations appear. The center 
of the cap is sometimes prominent, as in figure 3. The flesh is 
white or whitish and its taste is somewhat unpleasant or acrid. 

The gills are at first white or whitish, but with age they 
become less clear in color and are often more or less stained or 
spotted with reddish-brown. The inner extremity of those that 
reach the slem is attached to it and usually runs down slightly 
upon it. Sometimes there is a slight notch on the lower edge of 
the gills near the stem. 

The stem is adorned with a collar which may be membranous 
or of a thick cottony texture, or so thin and webby that it entirely 
disappears in the older plants. Externally the stem is rather 
firm and fibrous, but centrally it is soft and spongy or even hol- 
low. It varies considerably in color, but usually it assumes a 
reddish-brown or livid-brown hue, especially toward the base, 
remaining paler above. Sometimes a yellowish green tomentum is 
noticeable at the base of the stem, and occasionally on the collar. 
The stem may be of uniform thickness or slightly thickened at 
the base or even narrowed almost to a point here In one variety 
it has a distinctly bulbous base, in another a tapering base like a 
tap root which penetrates the earth deeply. 



166 KEPORT OF 7HB STATE BOTANIST. 

Cap one to six inches broad, stem one to six inches long, one- 
fourth to three-fourths of an inch thick. 

The Honey-colored ar miliaria is very common and grows either 
in woods or in cleared land, on the ground or on decaying wood, 
A favorite habitat is about stumps and prostrate trunks in 
recently cleared places or in bushy pastures. Its mode of growth 
is either solitary, gregarious or in dense tufts or clusters. Tufts 
a foot in diameter and composed of twenty or more plants 
are not uncommon. The plants are especially abundant in hilly 
and mountainous districts in autumn. They rarely appear 
plentifully before the first of September, though occasional 
specimens have been seen as early as June. 

Monstrous forms sometimes occur, and there is an abortive 
form which consists of a whitish irregular rounded mass of cellu- 
lar matter without any distinction of stem cap or gills. This 
usually grows in company with the ordinary form, and is an inch 
or two in diameter. The mycelium of this fungus is thought to 
be destructive to the wood in which it grows. Probably most 
of the plants which appear to grow on the ground really take 
their rise from mycelium which permeates some fragment of 
wood or some root buried in the ground. It attacks both the 
hard woods and soft woods. 

Authors disagree concerning its edible qualities. Some of the 
older authors considered it poisonous, but modern writers gen- 
erally agree that it is harmless and edible, but of inferior quality. 
Cordier says it is edible and loses its acridit}' in cooking, but the 
stems are tough and not used. 

Richon and Roze affirm that its taste is astringent and that its 
acridity does not entirely disappear in cooking, but that it is 
edible though of indilferent (juality. 

According to Vittadini, it is preserved in vinegar, salt and oil 
for use in winter, and its acridity is lost in cooking. Gillet also 
says that in reality it is harmless, though it !ias an acrid, disa- 
greeable taste, which disappears in cooking. " Esculent but not 
commendable," is the verdict of Berkeley ; " edible but tough," 
says Stevenson, while Cooke tells us that it is very common and 
much used on the Continent, but is not recommended. 

My own cxiierionce in eating it at various times, both fried and 
stowed, has always been without any harm. Cooking has 



EEPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 167 

appeared to me to dispel the unpleasant taste of the raw plant, 
but sometimes when the dish was prepared by stewmg in milk 
and water, a slight, unpleasant burning sensation was felt in the 
throat a short time after eating. I consider it a perfectly safe 
and edible species, but not of first quality. Only the caps of 
young and fresh specimens should be used. 

It is not improbable that such a variable plant as this may 
vary somewhat in flavor. We do not expect all varieties of 
apples to have exactly the same flavor, though the species may 
be one. The degree of toughness, too, may vary according to 
the age and the rapidity of the growth of the plants. Individual 
tastes may also dififer, so that what would please one might be 
distasteful to another. Such facts may account, m part, at least, 
for the varying opinions concerning the edible qualities of this 
very common mushroom. The essential thing to know is, that 
the species is not dangerous. Then those who like it may eat it. 
The following varieties of this species may be noted : 
Variety ohscura has the cap covered with numerous small 

blackish scales. 

Variety jlava has the cap yellow or reddish-yellow, but in 

other respects it is like the type. 
Variety glabra has the cap smooth ; otherwise like the type. 
Variety radicata has a tapering, root-like prolongation of the 
stem, which penetrates the earth deeply. 
Variety hulbosa has a distinctly bulbous base to the stem. 
Variety exanmdata has the cap smooth and even on the margin, 
and the stem tapering at the base. The annulus is very slight 
and evanescent or wholly wanting. The cap is usually about an 
inch broad, or a little more, and the plants grow in clusters, 
which sometimes contain forty or fifty individuals. It is more 
common farther south than it is in our State, and is reported to 
be the most common form in Maryland. 

Notwithstanding the variability of the species, it is easily rec- 
ognized when its characters are once known. I do not know of 
any dangerous species which could easily be mistaken for it. 

The abortive form which often grows with it, is not distin- 
o-uishable from the abortive form of Clitopilus ahoriivus. It has 
a farinaceous taste which is lost in cooking. It is not inferior to 
the normal form in flavor, and may be eaten with safety. 



168 REPORT OF THE STATE KOTANIST. 

Tricholoma TV. 
The species of Tricholoma, and all the white-spored, gill-bear- 
ing fungi to be hereafter described in these pages, differ from all 
the preceding species in having no collar on the stem. In this 
genus the gills are attached to the stem, and are excavated or 
notched on the edge at or near the stem. It often happens that 
this notch is so near the extremicv of the gill that the part 
attached to the stem is more narrow than the gill just beyond 
the excavation and causes the gill to appear as if rounded at the 
inner extremity. This is an important character, though not a 
very conspicuous one. The stem is fleshy and generally short 
and stout. Three species have been tried and approved, and are 
here described. Others reported as edible belong to our flora 
and await further trial. 

Cap viscid when moist T. transmutans. 

Cap not viscid, reddish-brown T. i-nbricatum. 

Cap not viscid, reddish-violaceous T. personatum. 

Tricholoma transmutans Peck. 
Changing Tricholoma. 

Plate 21. Figs. 1 to 5. 

Pileus viscid when moist, tawny-red, becoming reddish-brown 
with age ; lamelhe whitish or pale-yellowish, becoming dingy or 
reddish-spotted when old ; stem whitish, generally becoming red- 
dish-brown toward the base, stuffed or hollow, spores white, 
subglobose, .(»i02 in. l)road. 

The (/'hanging tricholoma has the cap moist and stickv when 
young and fresh, or during wet cloudy weather. Its color at 
first is tawny or tawny-red, but with advancing age it generally 
becomes darker, assuming a cinnamon-red or reddish-brown hue, 
but sometimes retaining a paler hue on the margin than in the 
center. The flesh is white and emits a mealy or farinaceous 
odor, especially when cut. The taste also is farinaceous. 

The gills are i)laced closely side by side and are notched at the 
inner extremity where they are attached to the stem. At first 
they are whitish or slightly tinged with yellow, but when old 
they are much darker and more or less spotted with reddish- 
brown. 



EEPOKT OF TUB STATE BOTANIST. 169 

The stem is about as long as the diameter of the cap. It is 
geaeraliy paler than the cap, being whitish when young, but 
assuming darker hues with age, especially toward the base. It 
is often stufifed with a softer substance or pith when young, but 
it soon becomes hollow. 

Cap two to four inches broad, stem two to four inches long, 
about half an inch thick. 

It grows in thin woods or open places in wet weather. It may 
be found from August to October. It is often found growing in 
tufts or clusters, but it is usually gregarious. It seems to prefer 
a sandy or light gravelly soil. It sometimes grows in company 
with the next species in groves of young spruce, balsam-fir and 
tamarack trees. Its edible qualities are very similar to those of 
the next species, from which it is easily known when moist, by 
reason of the viscidity of its cap. It was first recorded as edible 
in the Forty-second Eeport. 

Tricholoma imbricatum i^. 
Imbricated Tricholoma. 

Plate 81. Figs, 6 to II. 

Pileus dry, innately squamulose, fibrillose toward the margin, 
brown or reddish-brown; lamellai white, or yellowish white, becom- 
ing reddish or spotted with reddish-brown; stem solid, white and 
pulverulent at the top, colored like but generally paler than the 
pileus toward the base; spores elliptical, white, .00025 in. long. 

The Imbricated tricholoma does not differ very greatly from 
the Changing tricholoma in size and color, but it can easily be 
distinguished from that species by the dr}'^, not viscid, upper surface 
of its cap and by its solid stem. The cap is generally a little 
darker colored and its surface often presents a somewhat scaly 
appearance as if the epidermis had been torn into minute, irregular, 
scale like fragments. The color is a cinnamon brown or dark 
reddish-brown. The flesh is firm, white or whitish, and has a 
pleasant farinaceous odor and taste when fresh. 

The gills have very nearly the same color and character as 
those of the Changing tricholoma. 

The stem also is similar to the stem of that species, but it has 
no central cavity. Sometimes when old it becomes hollow by 
the mining of insects. 

22 



170 BEPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

Cap two to four inches broad, stem two to three inches long, 
one-third to two-thirds of an inch thick. 

This species grows under or near coniferous trees, such as pine, 
spruce, henalock and balsam-fir. It ap^^ears in September and 
October. Like the preceding species it sometimes grows in 
clusters. It is often associated with Tricholoma vaccinum, a 
species very similar to it in size and general appearance, but 
which differs in three particulars. The margin in the young 
plant is covered with a soft downy or cottony coat, the stem is 
hollow and the taste is bitter or unpleasant. Nevertheless some 
writers class it among the edible species. Gillet says it is edible, 
but not of a very delicate flavor. So much do the two species 
resemble each other that so good a mycologist as Persoon seems 
to have confused them under the common name Agaricus rufus. 
A mistake of this kind by any one using the Imbricted tricholoma 
for food would not be serious, since this closely related plant has 
no dangerous properties. 

Tricholoma xorsonatum i^. 

Masked Tricholoma. 

Plate 22. 

Pileus moist, glabrous, variable in color; lamellre crowded, 
rounded behind, free or nearly so, separable from the pileus, vio- 
laceous becoming sordid-whitish or fuscous ; stem short, solid, 
fibriUose, whitish, commonly tinged with lilac or pale violet; 
spores elliptical, sordid-white, .0003 to .00035 inch long. 

The Masked tricholoma is worthy of a place among the escu- 
lent species of the first class. When young the cap is very con- 
vex and firm, but when mature it is nearly fiat and the flesh is 
more soft. It is very smooth and usually quite regular in shape 
when young, but in older plants the margin sometimes becomes 
irregular or wavy. In young plants tlie margin is rolled inwards 
and often whitened with downy or mealy particles or frosted 
with a slight bloom, but in old ones it is naked, and in wet 
weather it may even be curved upwards. The caj) is apt to 
become water-soaked in wet weather, in which condition it has 
an uninviting appearance. It varies much in color, but generally 
it has a pale lilac hue, which is apt to change with age to a 
russety shade in the center. Occasionally the color of the cap is 



EEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 1"^ 

almost white or pale grayish. The flesh when dry is nearly 
white and has a pleasant taste. 

The gills are closely placed and rounded at the end next the 
stem, to which they are but slightly attached, or from which 
they may be entirely free in some cases. They are generally 
more brightly colored in the young plant than in the mature one. 

The stem is generally rather short and stout, its length being 
less than the diameter of the cap. It is solid, and externally 
adorned with fibrils and downy particles when young and fresh, 
but it soon becomes smooth. In color it is like the cap or paler 
than it. It is sometimes a little thicker at the base than at the 
top, and in one variety, which I have called var. hulhosuin, and 
which is represented by figures 7 and 8, it is very distinctly 

bulbous. . , 

Cap two to five inches broad, stem one to three inches long, 

one-half to one inch thick. 

It grows in thin woods and in grassy open places. It does not 
often appear before September, but it may be found tiU freezing 
weather stops its growth. It generally grows singly or in 
groups, but occasionally it is found in clusters of several indi- 
viduals, -p^ 

Nearly all writers speak weU of its edible qualities. Dr. 
Badham says that its taste is pleasant, and when not water- 
soaked it is a fine, firm fungus with a flavor like veal. Letellier 
states that it can be eaten with pleasure and without the least 
risk Others pronounce it edible, very good, highly esteemed, 
very savory. My own experience leads me to place it among the 
first-class mushrooms. . . 

In England this species is sometimes called Blewits and in 
France, Blue stem, although the color in our plant is more violet 
or lilac than blue. In Europe it is said to have been sometimes 
confused with Tricholoma nudum, a very closely related species, 
and also with Cortinarius violaceus, the Violet cortinanus, but 
such mistakes could result in no harm to the eater, for both these 
are edible and perfectly safe. So far as known, we have no hurt- 
ful species with which the Masked tricholoma would be likely to 
be confused. Its gills are somewhat separable from the 
hymenophore or flesh of the cap in the same manner as the giUs 
of a Faxillus are, and for this reason the species has sometimes 



172 BKPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

been referred to that genus, but mycologists generally place it in 
the genus Tricholoina. The spores, when dropped on white paper, 
have not tlie clear white color shown by those of most species of 
Tricholoma. The color is dingy-white or sordid-white. 

Clitocybe Fr. 
The genus Clitocyhe differs from Tricholoma in the character 
of the gills. They are attached to the stem by their inner 
extremity as in that genus, but they are not notched or excavated 
on the edge near the stem, and they are generally decurrent. 
Several of our species have been recorded as edible, but trial has 
been made by us of only a few of them. Those here described 
are tabulated below. 

Cap thick- fleshed, witli no reddish hues 1 

Cap thin-fleshed, more or less reddish 2 

1 Cap grayish, gills close together C. nebularis. 

1 Cap brown or blackish-brown, gills wide apart. C. media. 

2 Cap funnel shaped when mature C. infundibuliformis. 

2 Cap convex or nearly plane when mature ... C. laccata. 

Clitocybe nebularis Batuch. 
Clouded Clitocybe. 

Plate S3. Figs. 8 to 13. 

Pileus Heshy, firm, at lirst convex, becoming nearly flat; 
lamelte crowded, adnate or slightly decurrent, white or slightly 
tinged with yellow; stem firm, fibrillose, generally thickened at 
the base; spores elliptical, white, .ono2 in. long. 

The Clouded clitocybe is a rather large and firm mushroom 
with the cap at first convex, but when mature it becomes nearly 
flat or a little depressed. It is smooth and of a grayish or 
clouded-gray color, often becoming paler with age and sometimes 
evidently with a slight yellowish tint. The center of the cap is 
sometimes darker than the margin. In the American plant the 
color is generally paler than that of the European plant, as indi- 
cated by the |)ublished figures. The color of the flesh is white. 

The gills are quite closely placed, and in the young plant are 
attached to the stem by the whole width of the inner extremity, 
but as the cap expands they appear to run down upon the stem 
and terminate in a narrow point. They are white or slightly 
tinged with yellow. 



REPOKT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 



173 



The stem is usually rather short and stout. It is thickest at 
the base and gradually tapers upward. It is firm and more or 
less adorned with longitudinal fibrils. It is generally paler than 
the cap. Its center is somewhat softer in texture than the 
exterior parts. 

Cap two to five inches broad, stem one and a half to three 
inches long, one-half to one inch thick. 

The usual habitat is among fallen leaves in woods where it 
appears in September and October. I have never seen it in fields. 
It is a rare species with us. It sometimes grows in clusters. 

Some of the French mycologists do not admit this among the 
edible species, but English writers speak highly of it. Cordier 
says it is bad ; Richon and Roze say that its flavor is scarcely 
agreeable, and that it should be placed among the suspected 
species. Quelet asserts that he has eaten it often and found it 
good, but that sometimes it is indigestible and nauseous. Roqucs 
classes it as edible. Bulliard says " it is very agreeable to the 
taste." According to Badham it requires very little cooking and 
the flesh is perhaps lighter of digestion than that of any other. 
Stevenson quotes it as edible and very good, with a somewhat 
pungent taste and an odor of curd cheese. Cooke regards it as 
one of his favorite mushrooms, to which ho gives special atten- 
tion, and he thinks that no person, having a practical knowledge 
of its qualities, would place it among the suspected species. 

Clitocybe media Peck. 
Intermediate Clitocybe. 

Plate 23. Figs. 1 to 7. 

Pileus at first convex, becoming flat or slightly depressed, dry, 
dark grayish-brown or smoky-brown, the margin often wavy or 
irregular, the flesh white, taste mild ; lamella; broad, subdistant, 
adnate or decurrent, whitish, the interspaces somewhat venose ; 
stem not at all or but slightly thickened at the base, colored like 
or a little paler than the pilous; spores elliptical, white, .0003 in. 

long. 

The Intermediate clitocybe is very similar to the Clouded clito- 
cybe in size and shape. Indeed, it might easily be mistaken for 
a dark colored variety of that species, but when examined closely 
it will be seen that the gills are not so close together as in that 



174 BBPOKT OF THE BTATB BOTANIST, 

species, the spaces between them being noticeably wider, and 
often marked with little ridges or cross veins. The stem is also 
more cylindrical, scarcely tapering at all from the base upwards. 
In this respect it differs also from the Club foot clitocybe, Clito- 
cyhe elavipes, a species scarcely differing from the Intermediate 
clitocybe in color, although it has a more soft and spongy flesh 
and its cap is more narrow and more gradually tapering down- 
ward into the stem. It therefore appears somewhat like an 
inverted cone, while the stem may be compared to a long and 
narrow cone whose apex is united with the apex of the inverted 
one formed by the cap. 

The Intermediate clitocybe is very scarce, and has been found 
in cool deep woods only, growing among mosses that thickly 
carpeted the ground. It occurs in September. Its flesh is well 
flavored and it is a mushroom well worthy a place among the 
most desirable species. It is a matter of regret that it is not 
more abundant. It was first published as edible in the Forty- 
second Report of the State Museum, its edible qualities having 
been tested by the writer. 

Clitocybe infundibuliformis Schceff. 

FCNNEL-FOKM ClITOOYBE. 
Plate 24. Figs. 1 to 6. 

Pileus at first convex and umbonate, becoming infundibuliform. 
dry, flaccid, reddish or pale tan color, fading with age ; lamella 
decurrent, white ; stem generally tapering upward from the base, 
colored like or paler than the pileus ; spores somewhat elliptical, 
white, .0002 to .00025 in. long. 

The Funnel-form clitocybe is a neat and rather pretty species, 
easily recognized by the funnel-like shape of the mature cap and 
its pale red color. When young the cap is slightly convex and 
often adorned with a very small prominence or umbo in the center. 
If observed closely it will be seen to be coated with a slight down 
or silkiness, especially on the margin. But as the cap expands it 
becomes depressed in the center, and in wet weather it resembles 
somewhat a largo wineglass in shape. The color is apt to fade 
and sometimes the margin of the cap becomes irregular or wavy. 
Occasionally specimens occur in which the cap is almost white. 
The flesh is thin and white. 



BVPOBT 0¥ THE STATE BOTANIST 



175 



The gills also are thin and white or whitish and rather closely 
placed. They run down on the stem in the mature plant, ending 
in a narrow point. 

The stem is quite smooth and generally tapers upward from 
the base. It is sometimes white, but more often is colored like 
the cap. Usually a soft white down or felt is noticeable at its 
base. This is its mycelium which spreads in the soil or among 
the fallen leaves in which it grows. 

The cap is two to three inches across, the stem is two to three 
inches long and one-fourth to nearly one-half an inch thick in the 
largest specimens. 

It is not uncommon in woods in summer and autumn. Like 
many other species it is more abundant in wet weather. It 
delights especially to grow among fallen leaves in mixed woods^ 
and though generally single or scattered in its mode of growth it 
sometimes forms clusters, in which case the cap is apt to be more 
or less irregular. 

Although small in size and thin in flesh it affords a very deli- 
cate and delicious food. 

"When once known it is easily recognized, and I do not know of 
any hurtful mushroom in our flora with which it is likely to be 

confused. 

Clitocybe laccata Scop. 

Laooatk Clitocybb. Waxy Clitocybe. 

Plate 26. 

Pileus thin, convex or nearly plane, sometimes umbilicate, 
hygrophanous, glabrous or minutely scurfy squamulose ; lamellas 
broad, distant, aduate or slightly decurrent, more or less tinged 
with flesh color ; stem slender, equal, fibrous, stuffed, colored like 
the pilous ; spores globose, rough, .0003 to .0004 inch broad. 

The Laccate clitocybe is a small but very common species which 
has a very wide range and is sometimes very abundant. It is 
also very variable, but easily recognizable when its peculiar 
characters are understood. It is thin in flesh, not highly flavored 
and apt to be tough, but because it has been classed among the 
edible species of Europe and because of its abundance and avail- 
ability it is here admitted. 

The cap is convex or nearly plane, even or umbilicate, smooth 
or with a slight scurfy roughness, When moist it has a watery 



176 KEPORT OF THE STATE BOTAKIBT. 

appearance, and as this moisture dries the color changes more or 
less. In the moist state the color is some shade of pale red, buff 
red or flesh red, but when dry it fades to a grayish or pale 
ochraceous hue. 

The gills are broad, rather wide apart and attached to the 
stem by their entire width. Sometimes they are slightl\' decur- 
rect and occasionally einarginate, contrary totbe generic charac- 
ter. They have a peculiar pale fleshy red hue which is more 
persistent than the color of the cap, and which is one of the best 
characters for the recognition of thespecies. When mature, they 
are apt to bo dusted by the white spores. 

The stem is rather long and slender, having a fibrous appear- 
ance and being either straight or flexuous. It is stuffed or 
almost hollow, rather tough and colored like the cap. 

The cap varies from half an inch to two inches in horizontal 
diameter, and the stem from one to three inches in length and 
one to three lines in thickness. 

There are several well marked varieties that have received 
names. One of the prettiest is the Amethyst variety, Variety 
amethydina, Figs. 23 to 27, in which the moist cap is much darker 
colored than in the ordinary form, and when dry it is of a 
grayish hue, but the gills have a beautiful deep violaceous color 
which is quite persistent. The spores are rather large and the 
lamelhc more decurrent than usual. It may be a good species. 

In \'ariety paUiilifoUa, the pale gilled variety, the gills are 
much paler than usual, being but slightly tinged with the ordinary 
flesh color. 

In Variety striatula, the striatulate variety, the plants are 
small, the cap is smooth, and so thin that shadowy lines or 
striations are seen on it radiating from near the center to the 
margin. This variety usually grows in very damp or wet places, 
lis spores are rattier large, which may indicate a good species. 

The Laccate mushroom may be found from the beginning to 
the end of tlie season, if the weather is not too dry. It is not 
particular as to its ])lace of growth, but occurs in woods, groves, 
swamps or open fields, growing on naked ground or among 
errass, mosses or fallen leaves. It is especially fond of pine woods 
or groves where the soil is kept shaded and moist. 

Because of itsdoparture from thogoneric character in its peculiar 
gills and spores it has been placed by some writers in a distinct 



KBPOET OF THE STATE BOTAKIST 177 

genus under the name Laccaria laccata. It is closel}'^ related to 
Clitocyhe ochropurpurea B. & C, a much larger species with a 
paler cap and brighter gills, and a short thick stem and often an 
irregular deformed development. This also should be associated 
with it generically under the name Laccaria ochropurpurea, if 
that genus is sustained. 

Pleurotus Fr. 
The genus Pleurotus scarcely differs from Tricholoma and 
Clitocybe except in the relative ])osition of the stem and the cap. 
In these genera the cap is supported by a stem which is attached 
to it centrally. In Pleurotus the stem is attached to the cap at 
some point to one side of the center. Sometimes this point is on 
the very margin of the cap, and in a few species the stem is 
scarcely developed at all. Some of the species have the gills 
rounded or notched at the inner extremity as in the genus 
Tricholoma, and some have them decurrent on the stem as in 
Clitocybe. A distinctive character which is worthy of notice in 
tbis genus is found in the habitat. All the species, with which 
we have to do, grow on dead wood, while those of the two pre- 
ceding genera, so far as here given, grow on the ground. Gen- 
erally their flesh is more tough than in terrestrial species. 
Sometimes they grow from dead spots or dead branches of living 
trees, and are often out of reach, being far up from the ground. 

Stem present, distinct 1 

Stem wanting or indistinct P. ostreatus. 

1 Spores white P- ulmarius. 

1 Spores faintly lilac-tinted P. sapiduf. 

Pleurotus ulmarius Bull. 
Elm Pleukotus. 

Plate 26. Figs. 1 lo 4. 

Pileus convex or nearly flat, Arm, glabrous, white or centrally 
tinted with reddish-yellow or brownish-yellow, flesh white; 
lamelhe rather broad, rounded or notched at the inner extremity, 
adnexed, white or creamy white ; stem flrm, eccentric, generally 
curved, white or whitish ; spores globose, white, .0002 to .00025 
in. broad. 

The Elm pleurotus, or elm tree mushroom, is a conspicuous 
object, growing, as it generally does, from dead places in or on 
23 



178 BBPOHT OF THB 8TATB BOTANIST 

the stumps of cut branches of standing elms. By its large size 
and white color it easily attracts attention. Its cap is broadly 
convex or nearly flat, quite smooth and usually white or whitish. 
Sometimes it is centrally tinged with a rusty or dull yellowish 
hue, and occasionally adorned with roundish spots as shown in 
figure 2. I have never seen the American plant as highly 
colored as some of the figures of the European plant. Some- 
times the epidermis will be found cracked in small areas giving 
to the cap a scaly or tessellated appearance, and occasionally it 
cracks longitudinally. The flesh is firm and white. 

The gills are quite broad and not very closely placed side by 
side. They are notched at the inner extremitv as in si)ecies of 
Tricholoma. They are white, or when old, tinged with yellow. 

The stem is firm and solid and united to the cap a little to one 
side of the center. It is generally more or less curved. This is 
especially the case when it grows from the side of the trunk of 
the tree. It is commonly smooth, but sometimes a little downy 
or hairy at the base. In color it is white or whitish. 

Cap three to five inches broad, stem two to four inches long, 
one-half to three-fourths of an inch thick. 

It appears from September to November. It is not uncommon 
to see this mushroom late in autumn growing on the elms that 
have been {)lanted as shade trees along the streets of our cities 
and in our public parks. It grows especially on those that have 
been severely trimmed or had their tops cut away. Its time of 
appearance is so late in the season that it is not often infested by 
insects. It therefore persists a long time and will keep two or 
three days without harm. Its flesh is not as tender as that of 
many of the mushrooms that grow on the ground, but it has an 
agreeable flavor and is (piite harmless. Most tree-inhabiting 
mushrooms grow more slowly and ai'e, therefore, more tough 
and more slow to decay than those growing on the ground. 
They are also less easily collected since they often grow high up 
on standing trees. In consequence of their persistent character 
they are easily dried and preserved for winter use. 

The Elm pleurotus sometimes grows on other than elm trees, 
as the maple and poplar. Occasionally when growing from the 
cut surface of an upright stump, or from the ujjper side of a 
branch, its slera is straight and attached centrally to the cap. 
Such a form has received the name Variety verticalis. A form 



BEPOET OF THK STATE BOTANIST 179 

is said to grow in Europe in which the whole stem is downy or 
hairy, but I have not found it in our State. According to Yitta- 
dini the Elm pleurotus is a fungus of first quality and very 
desirable. Lctellier commends it as an article of food because 
of its large size, and Dr. Cooke mentions one specimen which 
was sj laige that it made a good meal for three or four persons. 
Quelet says that it is sapid, but should bo eaten while young. 
When dried specimens are soaked several hours in water they 
resume their original size and are nearly as good as if fresh. 

Pleurotus sapidus Kalchb. 
Sai'id Pleurotus. 

Plate 27. 

Pileus convex or depressed, glabrous, often irregular, variable 
in color, fltsh while; lamelku subdistant, decurrent, whitish; 
stems commonly tufted, growing from a common base, eccentric 
or lateral, glabrous, white or whitish ; spores oblong, pale lilac, 
.00035 to .000-15 in. long. 

The Sapid pleurotus generally grows in tufts or crowded clus- 
ters, whose stems are more or less united at the base, and whose 
caps crowd and overlap each other. The caps are smooth and 
firm and in wet weather are somewhat moist. They are convex 
on the upper surface or centrally depressed, and owing to their 
crowded mode of growth are often very irregular in shape. 
They vary greatly in color, being white, yellowish, ashy gray, 
dull lilac or even brownish. The ilesh, however, is white. 

The gills are rather broad and somewhat wide apart. They 
run down on the stem and there often branch and connect with 
each other. They are whiiish or yellowish and sometimes pre- 
sent a ragged or torn appearance. 

The stems are generally short and two or more usually grow 
from a common base. They are commonly white and smooth, 
solid and lirm, and attached to the cap laterally or a little to one 
side of the center, though specimens occasionally occur in which 
the stem is quite central. 

The peculiar character which distinguishes this species, and 
about the only one that is available for separating it in all cases 
from the next, is the lilac tint of the spores. When these are 
thrown down on black or brown paper they have a sordid, whitish 
appearance, but if caught on white paper the color of the mass 



180 HEPOBT OF THB STATE B0TABI8T 

is a very pale dull lilac as represented by figure 9. It has 
seemed to me that they are whitish, even on white paper, when 
first thrown down, but after a short exposure or after a greater 
accumulation the lilac tint appears. Notwithstanding this pecu- 
liarity in the color of its spores the species is classed among the 
whitespored mushrooms, and it is perhaps a question whether it 
is, after all, anything more than a variety of the next species. 

Cap two to five inches broad, stem one to two inches long, one- 
fourth to two-thirds of an inch thick. 

The Sapid pleurotus grows in woods and open places from June 
to November. It is quite common and more abundant in wet 
weather. It inhabits decaying wood and may be found about old 
stumps, prostrate trunks of trees or even on dead or dying trees 
while yet standing. Sometimes it appears to grow from the 
ground, but a careful investigation would show that it starts from 
some decaying root or some buried piece of wood. In Europe it 
is said to grow on elm and oak, but in our State it inhabits other 
trees also, such as beech, birch, maple and horse chestnut. I have 
eaten it both fried and stewed and consider it about the same as 
the Oyster mushroom inedible qualities. In Hungary, according 
to Dr. Kalchbrenner, it is eagerly sought for food in the woods, 
and is also cultivated on pieces of elm trunks in gardens. 

Pleurotus ostreatus Fr. 
OrsTER Pleurotus. Oyster IMusheoom. 

Plate £0. Figs. 6 to 0. 

Pileus convex, soft, imbricated, glabrous, moist, whitish, ciner- 
eous or brownish, flesh white ; lamella) broad, decurrent, anasto- 
mosing at the base, white or whitish ; stem short, firm, mostly 
lateral and indistinct or absent ; spores oblong, white, .0003 to 
.OOOi in. long. 

The Oyster mushroom or Oyster fungus, so named because of 
its shape probably, rather than because of its llavor, is very simi- 
lar to the Sapid mushroom. According to the descriptions of the 
European plant it is quite variable in color, but with us the pre- 
vailing colors are white or ashy-gra}', changing to yellowish in the 
old or dried state. The stem when present is generally shorter than 
in the Sapid pleurotus and more often lateral. It is sometimes hairy 
at the base aad soiaotimcs wanting entirely. But the caps are 



REPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST 181 

clustered and overlapped very much as in that species, and the 
gills are the same in both. For table purposes there is little need 
of keeping the two distinct. Both are much more liable to be 
infested by insects than the Elm pleurotus. Both grow on decaying 
wood and at the same season and under similar conditions. The 
Oyster mushroom is apparently much less frequent in our State 
than the Sapid mushroom. It has Jong been classed among the 
esculent species, but in consequence of the toughness of its flesh it 
does not rank as a mushroom of first quality. Miss Banning states 
that she has eaten it both raw and cooked, but that she failed to 
detect any resemblance between its flavor and that of the oyster. 
Dr. Cooke says that it is a fleshy fungus, and when slowly and 
carefully cooked it is a pleasant and digestible one, but that it 
may be spoiled by bad treatment. French writers speak well of 
it and agree that it is both safe and excellent, but some recom- 
mend it only while young and tender. No charge of being dele- 
terious is brought against it. 

The remaining white-spored genera here represented differ 
from all the preceding either in the character of the gills or of 
the flesh. 

Hygrophorus Fr. 

In the genus Hygrophorus the gills of the mature plant have 
a soft waxy texture which distinguishes them from all others. 
They are not easily separable into the two membranes which 
form their two surfaces, as in the preceding genera. As in 
Pleurotus, the gills of some of the species are rounded or 
notched at the end next the stem, but of others they are decur- 
rent on it. Those with decurrent gills bear considerable external 
resemblance to the species of Clitocybe, but the gills are generally 
thicker and much further apart than in that genus. No species 
of Hygrophorus is known to be dangerous, though two or three 
have been classed as suspected. 

Hygrophorus pratensis Fr. 
Meadow Hygrophorus. Pasture Hygrophorus. 

Plate 28. Figs. 11 to 17. 

Pileus compact, convex turbinate or nearly flat, glabrous, the 
margin thin ; lamellae thick, distant, decurrent, whitish or yellow- 
ish, the interspaces veiny ; stem short, glabrous, white or whitish. 



182 HBPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST 

sometimes j'^ellowish ; spores broadly elliptical, whitish, .00024 
to .00028 in. long. 

The Meadow hygrophorus, also called Pasture hygrophorus 
and Buff-caps, is a rather small but stout-appearing mushroom, 
which is quite variable in the color of its cap. This is commonly 
buff or yellowish, more or less tinged with red or tawny hues. 
Sometimes it is almost white. When young, the cap is nearly 
hemispherical or strongly convex, but with advancing age the 
thick fleshy center becomes more prominent. In full maturity 
the thin margin is apt to be extended horizontally so that the 
surface of the cap is nearly flat and its shape resembles an in- 
verted cone whose sides are fluted by the widely separated gills. 
The flesh is white or nearly so and has a mild taste. 

The thick gills extend far down on the stem in the mature 
plant, and in the bottom of the spaces between them cross veins 
may be seen connecting them together. 

The stem is mostly white, or if tinged at all with the color of 
the cap, it is paler than it. Sometimes it tapers downward, be- 
coming more narrow at the base than in the upper part. Its sur- 
face is smooth. 

Cap one to two inches broad, stem one to two inches long, 
one-fourth to one-half an inch thick. 

This species grows in old pastures and clearings or in thin 
woods. It is often found in old abandoned fields partly over- 
grown with brakes and bushes. It may be found from July to 
September. 

It has, for many years and by nearly all writers on this sub- 
ject, been classed with the edible species, and Dr. Cooke pro- 
nounces it to be thoroughly wholesome and of delicate flavor. 

Hygrophorus miniatus Fr. 
Vermilion IIvoRorHOEUs. 

Plate 23. FlgB. 1 to 10. 

Pileus thin, fragile, at first convex, becoming nearly plane, 
glabrous or minutely squamulose, often \inibilicate, generally 
red; lamellae distant, adnate, yellow, often tinged with red; 
stem slender, glabrous, colored like the pileus ; spores elliptical, 
white, .0003 in. long. 



EKPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST 



183 



The Vermilion hygrophorus is a very highly colored, beauti- 
ful species. It is small, but ia some localities it is so abundant 
that no difficulty need be encountered in procuring a quantity of 
it sufficient for a meal for a large family. The cap is thin and 
fragile, and it must be handled with care or it will be broken. 
In the young plant it is convex, but it expands with age until it 
is flat or even centrally depressed. Its surface is sometimes 
smooth and even shining, again it is roughened as if coated with 
minute scurfy scales. Frequently there is a little central depres- 
sion or umbilicus in it. AVhen young and moist the margin often 
shows slight striations, but in the dry or mature plant these are 
not seen. The margin is often irregular or wavy, and in very 
wet weather it may become curved upwards so that the cap be- 
comes concave. The color is usually a bright red or vermilion, 
but sometimes it fades to paler or orange shades, and there is a 
variety in which the whole plant is yellow. This I have called 
variety lutescens and have represented it by figures and 10. 
The bright color of this plant is apt to disappear in drying. 

The gills are commonly yellow, but sometimes they are more 
or less tinged with the red color of the cap. They are not so 
wide apart as in the Meadow hygrophorus. They are generally 
attached to the stem by the entire width of the inner extremity, 
but specimens occur in which they are plainly notched at the 
inner end, and others are found in which they are slightly 
decurrent. 

The stem is rather slender. In young ])lants it is solid, but in 
older ones it becomes wholly or partly hollow. It is colored like 
or sometimes paler than the cap. 

Cap one-half to two inches broad, stem one to two inches long, 
one to two lines thick. 

The Vermilion hygrophorus grows in woods, swamps and old 
fields in soil either wet or dry, among mosses or fallen leaves or 
on naked earth. It is sometimes found in great profusion in 
recent clearings over which fire has run. In such places it com- 
monly attains a larger size than in dense woods, the cap attain- 
ing a diameter of even three inches. It is evidently fond of 
moisture and is more abundant in wet weather than in dry. It 
will grow even in the wet Sphagnum of peat bogs, and yet it is 
also found on the dry knolls and hillocks of the Adirondack 



181 BEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST 

region, growing freely under the shade of the brakes {Pteris 
aquilina) that cover tliem. It thus shows a great adaptability 
to varying conditions. It grows either singly, in groups or in 
clusters, and may be found from June to September. It is 
especially abundant in the Adirondack region. 

Having experimented with this species twenty years ago I was 
agreeably surprised to find it scarcely surpassed by any in ten- 
derness of substance and agreeableness of flavor. It was first 
recorded as an edible species in the Twenty-sixth Report of the 
State Museum. 

A common species that closely resembles it is the Chantarelle 
hygrophorus, Ihjijropliorus Cantharelluti. This is a smaller and 
more graceful plant, having a long slender stem and gills running 
very distinctly down on it. The colors of the two plants are the 
same, and they might easily be confused unless the character of 
the gills is noticed. 

Lactarius Fr. 

In the genus Lactarius the gills exude a milky or colored juice 
where cut or broken. This character alone is sufficient to dis- 
tinguish this genus from all others, but there are other features 
whicli are quite characteristic. The texture is such that while 
the flesh seems firm and rigid it is nevertheless very brittle and 
easilj' 1)roken. The fracture is quite even and not ragged or 
t )rn as in more fibrous or filamentous substances. The species 
are mostly stout and fleshy in appearance and resemble in 
outline those of the genus Clitocybe. In the mature plant 
the cap is generally somewhat funnel-shape or like a broad 
inverted cone. The gills are more or loss decurrent and the 
stem is mostly stout and short. Some of the species have the 
cap adorned with circular zones or bands more highly colored 
than the adjacent parts. This feature is rarely seen in any other 
genus. The taste of the juice and ilesh in man}' species is very 
acrid or hot and burning, like that of cayenne pepper. UnlefS 
this can be destroyed by cooking or drying such species must bo 
considered wholly unfit for food. There is much uniformity in 
the spores of ail the species. They are globose or nearly so and 
roughened by minute jioints or jjrotuberances. Their color may 
be white or yellowish, according to the species. 



BEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST 185 

Lactarius deliciosus Fr. 
Delicious Laotaeius. 

Plate 89. 

Pileus at first convex and often slightly umbilicate, becoming 
nearly plane or centrally depressed, sometimes almost funnel- 
shaped, glabrous, yellowish-orange or grayish-orange vai'ied with 
brighter mottled zones; lamellae orange colored ; stem glabrous, 
often marked with a few orange-colored spots, colored like or 
paler than the pileus; juice orange-colored ; spores globose, yel- 
lowish, .0003 to .0004 in. broad. 

The Delicious lactarius is well marked by its peculiar colors 
and is easily distinguished from all our other species of Lactarius 
by its orange-colored juice. The cap is convex when young, 
but in the mature plant it sometimes becomes centrally 
depressed or even shaped like a funnel. It is smooth, and when 
fresh and moist its surface is slightly viscid. Its color is some 
shade of orange enlivened by mottled circles or zones of deeper 
hue. Theae zones often appear as if composed of numerous con- 
fluent spots. They are less distinct in old plants, in which also 
the ground color fades and becomes tinged with greenish hues, as 
shown in figure 4. Such plants have an unattractive ap])earance 
and should not be used for food. The flesh is whitish, but tinged 
with orange, especially along the line of attachment of the gills. 
There is often a sligbtly acrid taste to it when fresh. 

The gills are very similar to the cap in color. The orange- 
colored milk exudes from these in drops if they are cut or broken. 
This milk or juice pervades the whole plant and may exude from 
wounds in any part. Wounds and bruises slowly assume a dull 
greenish hue. 

The stem is colored like or a little paler than the cap and is 
often adorned with a few bright orange spots. It is generally 
quite short when growing on nakod ground, but longer if growing 
aming mosses. In some cases it is narrowed at the base, in 
others not. It is generally hollow in mature plants. 

Cap two to five inches broad, stem one to four inches long, one- 
third to two-thirds of an inch thick. 

Common in woods, groves and damp, mossy places. It is 
especially fond of pine woods and mossy swamps, though not by 
any means limited to these. It may sometimes be found in 
24 



186 EEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST 

swamps when dry weather prevents its growth elsewhere. It 
appears from July to October. 

The following are some of the many quotations that might be 
made concerning the edible qualities of this mushroom. It is 
one of the best mushrooms with which I am acquainttd and 
fully deserves its name and the high estimation in which it is 
held. Its flesh is firm, juicy, sapid and nutritious. Badham. It 
is the most delicate and the safest mushroom known. Vittadini. 
It is a species highly esteemed and generally liked. It is veiy 
good when properly cooked. It is also good preserved in 
vinegar. liichon and Roze. It is certainly very good when 
cooked with care. Quelet. It is most excellent. Berkeley. Fritd 
with butter and salt it has a taste like lamb. Sti/?ics. It is edible 
but it is not as good as its name seems to indicate. Gillet. 
Served at the annual Woolhope dinners, it has alwaj's given 
satisfaction. Cooke. It is the most delicious mushroom known. 
Smith. My own experience with it leads me to consider it very 
good but scarcely equal to the best. Doubtless differences of 
opinion concerning it may be due in part to different methods of 
cooking. It is said to require delicate cooking, for too long or 
too rapid cooking will make it tough. One of the best methods 
is to bake gently three-fourths of an hour in a close covered dish, 
having seasoned it with butter, pepper and salt. I consider it 
one of our most valuable mushrooms, because of its common 
occurrence and goodly size, and because of the almost total 'm- 
possibility of mistaking any deleterious sjiecies for it if regard 
be had to the color of its juice. From this it is sometimes caUed 
the Orange milk mushroom. 

Lactarius volemus Pr. 
Okanoe-iseown Laotakios. 

Plate SO. 

Pileus convex or nearly plane, sometimes becoming centrally 
depressed or almost funnel-form, glabrous, dr}'^, golden-tawny 
or brownish-orange, sometimes darker in the center ; lamellaj 
crowded, adnato or subdecurrent, white or tinged with yellow; 
stem colored like or a Utile paler than the pileus, glabrous; juice 
white, abundant; spores globose, white, .0()ii35 to .00045 in. broad. 

The Orange-brown lactarius is a clean, firm and attractive 
species. It varies but little in color and is, therefore, easily recog- 



EEPOKT OF THE STATE BOTANIST 



187 



nized. The cap is at first convex and, as in nearly all species of 
Lactarius, with advancing age it expands and becomes nearly 
flat or is somewhat depressed in the center and slightly funnel 
form. It is very smooth and generally quite regular. Sometimes 
it has a slight umbo or protuberance in the center as shown in 
figure 2. In the mature plant the epidermis sometimes cracks 
into small angular patches or areas. In the descriptions of the 
European plant this is given as one of the distinguishing charac- 
ters of the species, but it is by no means constant in the Ameri- 
can plant. Indeed, it is more often absent than present. The 
color of the cap is a peculiar mixture of red, brown and yellow, 
somewhat difficult to describe. It has been called reddish- 
tawny, golden-tawny, brownish-orange and orange-brown. It 
varies somewhat in the depth of coloring, some being a shade 
darker or a shade paler than others, but the essential color is 
quite constant. In variety suhrugosios, represented in figure 6, 
the margin of the cap is roughened with wrinkles which form 
irregular reticulations. In this variety the color is generally a 
little darker than in the normal forms. The flesh is white, some- 
times tinged with yellow. 

The gills are closely placed side by side and are attached to 
the stem by the whole width of their inner extremity, or in ma- 
ture funnel-form caps they run down on the stem somewhat. 
They are white or yellowish. Where cut or broken a white 
juice or milk exudes in drops, and wounds or bruises quickly 
assume a brownish hue. 

The stem is colored like the cap, but generally it is a little 
paler. It is quite firm and smooth and generally solid. It varies 
in length but is not often longer than the diameter of the cap. 

Cap two to five inches broad, stem one to four inches long, 
one-third to three-fourths of an inch thick. 

It grows in thin woods and open places. It is especially found 
in woods and groves of che-itnut and oak. It is a common species 
and occurs from July to September. It is most abundant in 
warm showery weather. Usually many individuals will be found 
growing in company or in groups, so that it is not difficult to ob- 
tain a generous supply for the table. It is remarkably free from 
the attacks of insects, which is a point in its favor as an esculent. 
Sometimes in drying it emits an unpleasant odor, which is per- 



188 BEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST 

haps an indication that the specimens should not be kept too 
long before cooking. Many writers allirni that this fungus is 
()uite as good raw as it is cooked, but to nie it often has a slightly 
acrid or astringent flavor in the raw state. All acknowledge it 
to be edible. 

Cordier says it is excellent and among the most agreeable 
edible mushrooms, and that in some countries it is eaten raw as 
well as cooked. Paulet declares it to be fine and delicate and 
that it is eaten with delight. Quolet assorts that it is better raw 
than cooked and that its sweet milk affords an agreeable drink 
for the botanist in the warm days of summer. Stevenson gives 
it as edible and delicious. My own experience with it would 
scarcely lead mo to class it as more than an ordinarily good 
mushroom. I'erhaps it might be improved by better cooking 
than I was able to give to it. I have not eaten it uncooked. 

There are two or three sjiecies somewhat similar to the Orange- 
brown mushrot)m in color, but none of them are hurtful. Wo 
are sometimes cautioned against mistaking the Red lactarius, 
jAiciariuii ruftiK, for it. This is reported by Fries as very pois 
onous. 1 have found tiiis on the high summits of the Catskills 
and in the cold mossy swamps and woods of the Adirondack 
region, but never in comininy with the Orange-brown lactarius. 
It is easily distinguished by its more red color, its smaller size, 
and especially by its exceedingly arrid burning tuste. No one 
who had tasted it in the raw state could be induced to swallow 
the least particle of it. 

Hussula Fr. 

The species of liussulu are very similar to those of the genus 
Lactarius in size, shape, structure and texture. The spores also 
are of the same character. 15ut this genus is at once separated 
by the absence of any milky or colored juice. The coloration is 
also pecuii ir in many of the species, bright or clear reil and pur- 
plish hues prevailing. This character doubtless suggested the 
name of the genus. No species exhibits the colored circular 
zones seen on the caps of so many species of Lactarius. The 
t;iste of the llesh is very similar in both, in some s^)ecies it being 
peppery or acrid, in others mild. 

The following is the only s|)ecies which I have tried, though 
several have been recorded as edible. 



BKPOBT OF THE STATE B0TA.NI8T 1S9 

Russula virescens Fr. 
Gkeenish IluasuLA. 

Plate 31. 

Pileus at first nearly globose, thoa expanded and convex or 
centrally depressed, tirni, dry, adorned with small llocculont 
patches or warts, greenish, sometimes tinged with yellow ; lamel- 
lae modera'.ely close, free or nearly so, white ; stem short, firm, 
white ; spores nearly globose, slightly roughened, white, .UUU:^4 
to .0o{)3 in. broad. 

The Greenish russula is quite distinct and easily recognized by 
its ^reen or grayish-green and warty cap. In the young plant 
this is rounded or almost globular, but it soon becomes convex 
and somolimos when mature it may even be centrally depressed. 
Its surface is dry, not viscid as in some other greenich species, 
and it is broken up into small scales or wart like patches. The 
margin in the typical form is even, but specimens olton occur in 
which it is marked with impressed lines or striations as in figures 
3 and 4. The margin of the exi)aiided ca|) often becomes split. 
The ilosh is white and has a mild taste. 

The gi-ls arc white or whitish. They are narrow at the inner 
extremity and barely reach the stem. Generally some of them 
arc forked and often a few shorter ones intervene between the 
long ones. 

The stem is commonly shorter than the diameter of the cap. 
It i: smooth, white and solid or somewhat softer and spongy in 
the center. 

Cap two to four inches broad, stem one to two inches long, 
one-half to three-fourths of an inch thick. 

In grassy grounds, groves or thin woods. July and August. 

A green color iu mushrooms is very rare, but in the genus 
Bussula there are so.'oral species that exhibit it or tin approach 
to it But these all lack the wart-like adornments that charac- 
terize the Greenish russulii, and therefore need not be mistaken 
for it. The color in our [ilant is not a bri.i'ht green, but one 
more or less mingled with gray or yellowish. Sometimes the 
central part of the cap is more highly colored than the margin 
and sometimes it is paler, exhibiting hero the yellowish tints. 

Vittadini places this among the most safe and delicate species 
of Russula. Iloquos speaks highly of .'y,and says it can be eaten 



190 BBPOBT OF THB STATE BOTANIST 

with entire confidence. According to Cordier it is a deliciouc 
mushroom with a pleasant taste and an aj^reeable odor. Richon 
and liozo say it has excellent qualities but it needs proper season- 
ing One of the most commendable of the edible russulas, 
edible, but its flavor is improved by cooking, edible but in little 
demand, are other opinions recorded concerning it. My own 
experience indicates it as of second-rate quality, but entirely 

harmless. 

Cantharellus Adans. 

The genus Cantharellus is separated from all the preceiiing 
genera by the character of the lamellae. These have an obtuse 
or blunt edge, and are mostly forked or branched. They are 
generallj' narrow. In general appearance the species are not 
mucli unlike species of Clitocybc, for the gills are usually decur- 
rent, but their thick branching and anastomosing habit and blunt 
edge give a very distinct character to the hymenium. 

Cantharellus cibarius Fr. 

Chantabelle. 

Piute 32. 

Pileus fleshy, firm, convex, becoming expanded or slightly 
depressed, glabrous, 3'ellow, the margin at lirst involute, then 
spreading and often wavy or irregular; lamellae narrow, thick, 
distant, decurrent, branched or auastuuKjsing, yellow ; stem firm, 
glabrous, solid, yellow ; spores elliptical, pale yellowish, .0003 to 
.0004: inch long. 

The Chantarelle is beautiful in color if not in shape, and is 
most easily recognized. Its color is a uniform rich egg-yellow, 
which is very constant. This extends to all {)arts of the plant 
except the inner flesh, which is white. The suface of the cap is 
smooth, but owing to the lobing and wavy character of the mar- 
gin the shape is often irregular and unsymmetrical. The cap is 
generally convex or nearly flat above, but sometimes it is cen- 
trally depressed. It is gradually narrowed downwards to the 
stem, often presenting the general outline of a broad inverted 
cone. 

The gills are narrow, with a rounded or blunt edge and with 
irregular branches which ofton connect with a<ljacent gills. In 
some individuals they are more branchoi than iu others. 



EEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST 191 

The stem is variable in length. It is often curved or slightly 
crooked, and sometimes tapers downward. It is smooth and 
solid, and bj some it is considered as good as the cap for food. 

Cap one to three inches broad, stem one to two inches long, 
one -fourth to one-half an inch thick. 

It grows in woods and open places. It is a common species, and 
may be found from June to September. A favorite habitat is in 
the deep shade of hemlock or spruce trees, but it also grows freely 
in thin woods of deciduous trees in wet, showery weather, li 
coram'jnly grows in groups but sometimes in curved lines, as if 
trying to form a "fairy-ring." The European plant is said to 
exhale an odor like that of ripe apricots, but I have not been 
able to detect any decided odor in the American plant. The tasie 
of the law plant is often a little pungent or acrid. 

The Chantarelle has long oeen celebrated for its edible quali- 
ties. Fries says that it is justly enumerated among the most 
sapid fungi; Badhara, that no fungus is more popular; Cocke, 
that it is alike esteemed in France, Germany, Austria and Italy, 
where it is eaten regularly and c.\ posed in the markets for sale; 
Gillet, that it is an excellent plant whether used as food or as a 
condiment; Stevenson, that it is edible and delicious. Accord- 
ing to Berkeley, it is occasionally served u[) at public dinners at 
the principal hotels in London on state occasions, when every 
effort is made to secure the rarest anil most costly dainties. 
Miss Banniug affirms that she has eaten it both raw and cooked 
and that b}' a confirmed fungus eater it would be pronounced 
most charming. My own trials of it would lead me to place it 
among the best and most important of our wild mu^hrooms. 

The Orange chautarello or False cliautareile, CunfhrreHua 
aurantiacus, is the only species liable to be mistaken for the 
edible chautiirelle. It may at once be recognized by the orange 
color of its gills, which are also thinner and more close and are 
regularly and repeatotUy forked. The color of its cap is a paler 
and more dingy yellow, varied with smoky-brown tints. 

Marasmius Ir. 

The genus Marasmius differs from all the preceding genera by 
the tough texture of the small thia plants that composo it. Tha 
plant quickly withers or shrivels in dry weather and I'evives 



192 BEPOBT OF THB STATE BOTANIST 

aofaia under the influence of moisture. The gills are thin and 
have an acute edge. They are ratlier tougli and ilexible like the 
cap. The spores are white. 

Marasmius Oreades Fr. 

FaIKY-EING MudUBOOM. 
Plate 14. Figs. IS to 21. 

Pileus fleshy, tough, glabrous, convex or nearly plane, often 
somewhat uinbonate, reddish or tawny- red, becoming paler with 
aje or in drying ; lamcllce broad, distant, rounded behind or tree, 
whitish or yellowish ; stem slender, tough, solid, coated with a 
close dense villosity, whitish ; spores nearly elliptical, white, 
.0003 to .00035 in. long. 

The Fairy-ring mushroom has received this name because of 
its tendency to grow in rings or circles. In France it is called 
False mousseron and in England, Scotch bonnets. It is also 
called Fairy-ring champignon. When young and moist its cap 
is reddish, tawny-red or pale yellowish-red, but it becomes paler 
with age or as the moisture disappears. When dry it is gener- 
ally palo-yellow or buff, as shown in figures 16 and 17. Some- 
times it is slightly striated on the margin, esoecially when moist, 
as shown in figure 12. Often it is prominent in the center as if 
br.)adly umbonate. This is seen in figures 13 and 14. The 
fljsh is rather thin, white and inclined to be tougn. 

The gills are rather broad and wide apart. They are rounded 
at the inner extremity and scarcely or but slightly attached to 
the stem. They are whitish or yellowish. 

The stem is rather slender but solid and quite tough. It is 
covered with a tine close villosity or tomentum which can be 
scraped away, revealing the smooth surface of the stem baneath. 
Its color is whitish or pale-grayish 

Cap one to two inches broad, stem one to two and a half inches 
long, scarcely one lourth of an inch thick. 

Common in pastures, luwns and grassy places by roads'des. 
May to October ; appearing in wet weather or after heavy rains. 
It usually grows in groups, sometimes in arcs of circles or in 
complete circles ov oven in lines. It sometimes forms clusters. 

It has long been esteemed as edible, l)ut owing to its small size 
and so:nowhat tough substance it has not gained the general 



BEFOST OF TflB STATE BOTANIST 193 

popularity it :leserves. The following recorded opinions of it 
will not be without interest: It is very good while young. 
When young it may be eaten in an omelet It has a very agree- 
able taste and odor and gives a delicious flavor to sauces, but it 
needs cooking a long time. There is little of it and it serves 
only as a condiment. It is edible and recommended especially 
as a condiment. It is delicious when broiled with butter. It 
may be picliled or dried for future use. It is very agreeable but 
in little demand because of its small size. It is a very delicious 
mushroom and the abundance in which it everywhere grows 
makes it a very valuable one. Its tendency to toughness is easily 
overcome by proper cooking. 

There are two or three mushrooms which are somewhat sim- 
ilar to the Fairy-ring mushroom in size and color, and which 
might by carelessness be mistaken for it. One of these, the 
Semiorbicular naucoria, Naucoria semiorhicularis, sometimes 
grows in company with it. It may be distinguished from it by 
the color of the gills, which in the mature plant are rusty brown. 
Its spores when caught on white paper have a dark rusty or 
ferruginous color, and its stem is smooth. 

The Oak-loving coUybia, CoUyhia dryophila, also resembles it 
in the color of the cap and gills, but its gills are more narrow 
and very closely placed side by side, and the stem is ver}' smooth 
and hollow. This usually grows in woods, but sometimes it 
occurs in open places and then might be taken for the Fairy-ring 
mushroom through carelessness. 

An esteemed correspondent gives the following method of 
cooking this mushroom : 

Throw the clean caps into sufficient boiling water to make a 
nice gravy when done, and cook them half an hour. Then rub 
together a small quantity of butter and flour and water, with 
salt and pepper, and add to the mushrooms, stirring for a moment. 
Pour on hot toast and serve in a hot dish. 

Another method is to put the caps in water with butter and 
seasoning and let them simmer slowly ten or fifteen minutes. 
Then thicken with flour and serve alone, or if preferred pour 
over cooked meat. 

As a condiment, chop in small pieces and add to cooking hash, 
stews, broths or meats just before time to serve. 
25 



194 BEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST 

Polyporese. 

BOLETI, POLYPOEI AlTD LiVEK FuNGUS. 

In the family Polyporeie the cap has no gills on the lower sur- 
face, but instead of them there are small tubes, holes or pores. 
The spores of the fungus are produced on the inner surface of 
these pores, and when mature, they are dropped or ejected from 
them into the open air. They may be caught in the same man- 
ner as the spores of agarics, but their color has not been em- 
employed in classification to the same extent that it has in that 
family. The edible species to be described belong to three gen- 
era. Boletus, Polyporus and Fistulina. The distinctive charac- 
ters of these genera are indicated in the subjoined table. 

Pores compacted together and forming a continuous 

stratum 1 

Pores each in a distinct tube Fistulina. 

1 Stratum of pores easily separable from the cap Boletus. 

1 Stratum of pores not separable from the cap Polyporus. 

Boletus Dill. 
The genus Boletus contains most of the edible species of this 
family. The substance of the cap is soft and tieshy and the cel- 
lular or porous stratum on the lower surface may be easily and 
smoothly removed by pressing it outwardly from the stefli 
toward the margin. This is the chief character by which to 
separate a boletus from a pol3'porus. Nearly all boleti grow on 
the ground and have the stem centrally attached to the cap. 
Unfortunately for mushroom eaters, many of them grow only in 
warm and wet or showery weather when insects are numerous, 
and therefore they are very liable to be infested by larva. Care 
must be taken to reject such plants. The stems also must be 
discarded, for they are too tough to be good. The tubes or pores 
are apt to form a disagreeable mucilaginous mass if retained, and 
it is well to remove them before cooking. Some species have a 
viscid surface to the cap which causes dirt, sticks and leaves to 
adhere tenaciously to it. The caps of such plants should be 
peeled before cooking. 

Cap viscid when moist 1 

Cap not viscid S 

1 Ste-n furnished with a collar 3 



BEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST 195 

1 Stem destitute of a collar B. granulatus. 

2 Stem dotted above the collar B. luteus, 

2 Stem dotted both above and below the collar B. subluteus. 

3 Stem rough with prominent colored dots 4 

3 Stem with no dots g 

4 Margin of the cap adorned with adhering fragments 

of a membranous veil B. versipellis. 

4 Margin of the cap naked '. . B. scaber. 

5 Stem solid , B. edulis. 

6 Stem hollow or cavernous B. castaneus. 

Boletus luteus L. 
Yellow-beown Bolet08. 

Plate 33. Figs. 7 to 12. 

Pileus viscid or glutinous, dingy or brownish-yellow, somewnat 
variegated with darker lines, spots or streaks, flesn white, some- 
times tinged with yellow ; tubes minute, yellow, becoming darker 
or ochraceous-yellow with age ; stem short, stout, annulate, yel- 
lowish and dotted above the membranous annulus ; spores yellow- 
ish brown, .00025 to .0003 in. long. 

The Yellow-brown boletus is one of our rarest tungi. Its 
broadly convex or nearly flat cap is of a peculiar dingy color 
formed by a mixture of yellow and brown or reddish-brown, 
which is very obscurely varied by slightly deeper colored streaks 
or spots. When wet it is covered with a sticky gluten which is 
so tenacious that it can be peeled away with the cuticle. The 
flesh is white, but in mature plants it is sometimes tinged with 
yellow. The tubes are nearly plane in the young plant, that is, 
their mouths are in a plane surface. They are at first concealed 
by the white membranous veil which soon breaks from its 
attachment to the margin of the cap and shrinks to the stem, on 
which it forms a kind of collar. The young tubes are yellow, but 
they assume dingy ochraceous hues with age. 

The stem is generally shorter than the horizontal diameter of 
the cap. It is yellowish above the collar and marked there with 
small brown dots. Below the collar it is generally more or less 
covered by a continuation of the veil, so that in very short- 
stemmed plants it appears as if sheathed by a wrapper as in the 
genus Amanita. 



196 EEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST 

Cap two to five inches broao, stem one to two inches long, one- 
half to three-fourths of an inch thick, 

I have tound this species under pine trees only. It occurs in 
autumn. 

European authors have written about its edible qualities as 
lollows : Edible and hipfhly esteemed , us flesh is very tender ; it 
is excellent ; it is good and extensively consumed in Germaiiy. 

Boletus subluteus Peck. 
Small-yellowish Boletus. 

Plate 33. Fie . I. to 6. 

Pileus viscid or glutinous wnen moist, often obscurely streaker} 
or spotted, dingy -yellowish or ierrug^inous-brown, flesh whitish or 
tinged with dull yellow ; tubes plane and yellow in the young 
plant, becoming dingy-ochraceous witn age, and sometimes con- 
vex* stem slender, whitish or dingy fellowish, annulate, dotted 
both above and below the annulus ; spores oblong or subiusiform, 
.0003 to .OOOi in. long. 

The Small-yellowish boletus scarcely differs from the Yel- 
low-brown boletus except in its smaller size and its more 
slender stem, which is dotted both above and below the 
collar. Its collar is less membranous in the mature plant, 
for it collapses or shrinks into a thick, often discolored, 
band instead of persisting as a flexible membrane. It is quite 
probable that it has often been confused with the larger species, 
and so far as its edible character is concerned such confusion 
would not be serious for there is but little difference in their 
flavor. This species is much more frequent than the other. It 
may be found from August to October. It occurs only in pine 
regions or in places where pine trees once grew. It is especially 
fond of a light sandy soil shaded by a thin or scattered growth 
of pine trees. 

I do not know of any dangerous species with which these two 
boleti are liable to be confused. 

Boletus granulatus L. 
Geanhlated Boletus. 

Plate 8<. Figa. 1 toS. 

Pileus viscid or glutinous when moist, variable in color, usually 
grayish-yellow or tawny, the flesh white tinged with yellow; 



EEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST 197 

tubes at first very pale-yeliow, becoming dmey-ochraceous with 
age; stem short, thick, solid, dotted above, whitish or yellowish; 
spores oblong, rusty-ochraceous, .0003 to .0004 m. long. 

The Granulated boletus has the cap viscid or glutinous when 
moist. It varies much in color. It may be pinkish-gray, 
grayish-yellow, reddish or ferruginous-brown or tawny. It is 
sometimes obscurely spotted from the drying gluten. The flesh 
is rather thick and white except along the lower surface next the 
tubes where it is generally tinged with yellow. The tubes are 
at first pale-yellow or almost white, but they assume the dingy- 
ochraceous hue which is common to many species in maturity. 
"When examined closely, the mouths of the tubes are seen to be 
dotted with minute granules which give rise to the name of the 
species. These are at first in the form of drops of a thick juice, 
but with age they become dry and form brownish granules. 

The stem is short, generally less than the horizontal diameter 
of the cap. It has no collar, but is dotted with small brown 
granules similar to those on the tube mouths. These granules 
are more numerous and distinct near the top of the stem. 
Sometimes they extend to the base, sometimes not. 

Cap one and a half to four inches broad, stem one to two 
inches long, one-third to one-half an inch thick. 

The Granulated boletus grows in pine woods and groves or 
under or near scattered pine trees. It may be found from July 
to October. It is one of our most common species in pine 
regions. It usually grows gregariously, many plants occurring 
in a small area. It sometimes grows in circles. 

The absence of a collar on the stem at once distinguishes it 
from the preceding species. 

The American boletus, Boletus Americanus, is often found 
growing with it and may be separated from it by the pale- 
yellow color, both of the cap and the flesh, and by its much more 
slender stem. 

Nearly all authors agree in placing the Granulated boletus in 
the list of edible species. Dr. Cooke says that it has given him 
the greatest satisfaction and that he prefers it to the Edible 
boletus or, indeed, to any other which he has tried. This is a 
pretty strong recommendation, and is the more gratifying because 
this species is so abundant and so easily obtainable. 



198 BEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIbl' 

Boletus versipellis Fr* 
Oeajnok-cap Boletds, 

Plate ^'.. Figs. 6 to 10. 

Pileus convex, dry, smootb or at first very minutely tomentose, 
reddish or orange-red, the flesh white or grayish, the margin 
adorned with the inflexed remains of a membranous concolorous 
veil ; tubes small, depressed around the stem, whitish or grayish- 
white, becoming darker or more dingy with age ; stem ratner 
long, firm, solid, roughened with small reddish oi blackish prom- 
inent dots or scales, whitish ; spores oblong-fusiform, brown, 
.00055 to .0007 in. long. 

The Orange-cap boletus takes its common appellation from the 
color of the cap. This is quite constantlv a dull yeilowish-red, 
less brilliant than orange. The peculiar distinguishing feature 
of the species is found in the torn or somewhat scalloped remains 
of the veil which adheres to the margin of the cap anl is of the 
same color as it. It is generally turned under the margin and 
adheres slightly to the tubes also. It is not difficult to imagine 
it to be an extension of the epidermis of the cap. 

The tubes are rather long, and in the mature plant they often 
form a convex mass, those near the margin and those near the 
stem being shorter than the intervening ones. The color is at 
first whitish or grayish, but in the mature plant it is considerably 
darker and not easily defined. 

The stem is usually equal to or a little longer than the hori- 
zontal diameter of the cap. It is frequently a little narrowed at 
the top. Its color is similar to that of the young tubes, and it is 
adorned with numerous reddish or blackish j)rominent points, 
dots or scales. In some instances these are uniform in color, in 
others the two kinds of points are intermingled on the same stem. 

Cap two to six inches broad, stem three to five inches long, one- 
third to three fourths of an inch thick. 

Woods and open places. I find this species especially in sandy 
soil of pine districts. It is single or scattered in its mode of 
growth and appears from August to October. It is by no means 
as common as the next species, to which, in my trials of it, it 
seemed inferior in esculent qualities. But ditferences in age or 
conditions of growth or in methods of cooking might make the 
ditlerence in Uavor. Dr. Cooke says it is equally as good as the 
next species. 



KBPOET OF THE STATE BOTAHIST 199 

Boletus scaber tV. 
Rough-stemmed Boletus. 

Plate 35. 

Pileus glabrous or nearly so, commonly convex, the flesh white 
or whitish ; tubes small, long soon convex in the mass, depressed 
around the stem, at first whitish, becoming darker, dingy or 
brownish ; stem firm, solid, often narrowed at the top, whitish or 
grayish, roughened with numerous small prominent, reddish or 
blackish dote or scales; spores oblong- fusiform, brown, .00055 to 
.0007 in. long. 

The Rough-stemmed or Scabrous-stemmed boletus may well be 
called our mos*^^ common and, in respect to color, our most variable 
species. Its ca,. varies in color from white to almost black. It 
also varies somewhat in shape. It is generally convex or ;ushion- 
shaped, but Svi-metiraes it is hemispherical or even broadly conical. 
Its surface is commonly smooth, but occasionally specimens are 
found in which it is slightly downy or even scaly. The llesh is 
white or whitish, and the maigiti in mature plants is often thick 
and blunt by reason of ♦^ho lengthening of the tubes. 

The tubes are long and mostly convex in the mass in the 
mature plants. They are much shortened around the stem, thus 
leaving a depression or cavity there. When young and fresh they 
are whitish, but they become darker and dingy or brownish with 
age. Cruises or wounds of the whitish tubes and flesh sometime., 
produce a slight change in color, it assuming pinkish or blacki.h 
hues. 

The stem scarcely differs in any respect from the stem of the 
Orange-cap boletus, and its characters need not be repeated here. 

Several varieties have been described, most of which depend 
on the color of the cap. 

Var. niveus has the cap white. Fig. 3. This is thought by 
some to be a distinct species. 

Var. aurantiacus has the cap orange-red. Fig. 4. This differs 
from the Orange cap boletus only in the character of the margin 
of the cap. 

Vnr. fuligineus has the cap fuliginous or cinereous-fuliginous. 
Fig. 5. 

Y&r.fuseus has the cap brown or dark brown. Figs. 2, 6 and 7. 



200 EEPOET OF THE 8TATB B0TAHI8T 

Other variations ia color are sometimes seen. The epidermis 
of the cap sometimes cracks into small angular areas or scales, 
which give it a peculiar appearance. This form has been desig- 
nated as Var. areolatus, but neither this nor the varieties depend- 
ing on color alone have a very substantial basis. They are 
probably mere forms rather than true varieties. 

Cap one to five inches broad, stem two to live inches long, one- 
third to two-thirds of an inch thick. 

The Rough-stemmed boletus occurs everywhere in woods, 
swamps and open places, and in sandy, gravell}^ loamy or clayey 
soil. It may be found from June to November. It is easily 
recognized by its peculiar stem, no other species, except the 
Orange-cap boletus, havii.g a stem like it. The dots are very 
different in character from those on the stems of the Granulated 
boletus and the Small-yellowish boletus. They are dry and 
fibrous, and not formed by the drying and hardening of a thick 
juice, as in those species. 

Authors differ in their estimate of the edible qualities of this 
boletus. Some simply pronounce it edible ; others say it is less 
agreeable than the Edible boletus, which is generally preferred to 
it. Gillet says that it can be eaten without the least fear, but 
that young plants should be selected for the table, old ones being 
generally more diilicult of digestion. My own experiments with 
it were highly gratifying, and lead me to consider it a hrst-class 
species for the table. 

Boletus edulis Ball. 
Edible Boletus. 

Plate 38. Figs. 8 to 12. 

Pileus glabrous, compact, becoming soft with age, grayish-red, 
brownish-red or tawny-brown, often paler on the margin, the 
flesh white or tinged with j'ellow, reddish under the epidermis ; 
tubes soon convex, depressed around the stem, at first whitish, 
becoming greenish-j'ellow ; stem stout, equal or thickened at the 
base, reticulated in the upper part, sometimes wholly reticulated, 
solid, pale or brownish ; spores oblong-fusiform, .0005 to .0006 
in. long. 

The Edible boletus is one of our large species, though it is by 
no means as common as desirable. When young the cap is firm 
and the tubes white, with their mouths very indistinct. "With 



BEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 



201 



advancing age the cap becomes softer and more yielding to pres- 
sure and the tubes assume a greenish-yellow or greenish-ochra- 
ceous hue and their mouths are then distinct. In color the cap 
is quite variable, exhibiting a mixture of red, yellovr and brown 
hues. It is most often tawny-brown or reddish-brown on the 
disk, with paler and yellowish hues on the margin. The flesh is 
tinged with red under the cuticie. 

The tubes form a couvex mass, being depressed around the 
stem. 

The stem is stout, solid and farm. It is adome<l with a fine 
network of raised lines just below the tubes, and sometimes these 
reticulations extend to the bast. It is most often somewhat 
swollen or thickened toward the base. Its color is generally 
paler than that of the cap, it being brownish or yellowish-brown 
or dingy white. 

Cap four to six inches broad, stem two to six inches long, one- 
half to one and a half inch thick. 

The Edible boletus grows in groves, woods and their borders, 
and sometimes in open waste places. It occurs in warm, showery 
weather, during July and August. It holds a prominent place 
among edible boleti, just as the common mushroom does among 
edible agarics. It has long been known as an edible species, and 
on this account its reputation has become widely spread. It has 
an agreeable, nutty flavor, even when raw, and it has secured 
favorable mention from nearly all writers on this subject. Bad- 
ham recommends, especially, this and the Rough-stemmed 
boletus. Gillet says it is an excellent species, with an agreeable 
flavor, and that it is largely consumed in some parts of France. 
It is also out in slices and dried for future use, and in this way is 
sold in the markets of Europe. 

Boletus castaneus Jhdl. 
Chebtitot Boletus. 

Plate 36. Figs. 1 to 7. 

Piieus convex, becoming nearly plane or depressed, dry, firm, 

at first minutely velvety, commonly reddish-tawny or cinnamon, 

flesh white, unchangeable; tubes short, small, at first white, 

becoming yellowish ; stem firm, short, stuffed or hollow, colored 

26 



202 EHPOET OK THE STATE liOTANIST 

like the pileus; spores oval or oroadly elliptical, pale-yellow^ 
.00(14 to .0005 in. long. 

The Chestnut boletus is unlike any other species here described, 
in having a hollow stem. Its cap is at first convex, but it becomes 
expanded with age and sometimes the margin curves upward, as 
shown in figure i. There is a minute velvety down on its sur- 
face, which is scarcely noticeable except to a close observer. The 
cohjr is generally reddish-tawnj'^ or cinnamon. It is not always 
as dark as is indicated by the name. 

The tubes are small and short. At first they are white, but 
they become yellowish as the plant matures. 

The stem is short and not always straight. It is clothed and 
colored like the cap. Sometimes it tapers towards the top. 
When young it is soft and spongy in the center, but it becomes 
cavernous or hollow when old, as shown in figure 6. Its pale 
yellow spores are also a peculiar feature. 

Some species of this genus quickly assume bluish tints where 
the substance is bruised or broken. The rule is sometimes given 
to avoid all such as poisonous. And yet oie correspondent, an 
enthusiastic mycophagist, informs me that he eats such species, 
and has done so repeatedly without harm. In one instance how- 
ever, which was brought to my notice, sickness and vomiting 
followed the eating of the Sensitive boletus, Boletus sensibUis, 
a species which assumes a blue color in a remarkable manner 
where bruised, cut or broken. Even the pressure of the fingers 
in handling it causes it to assume blue spots where touched. All 
the family partaking of it were made sick, but all recovered. 

Polyporus Mich. 

In members of the genus Polyporus the stratum of pores is not 
smoothly or easily separable from the caj). Most of the species 
grow on dead or decaying wood and are too tough for food. A 
few grow on the ground, but even these are inclined to be tough. 
Very few of the wood inhabiting species have a central stem and 
many have no stem at all. In some the te.Kturo is dry, hard, 
corky or woody, such as no one would think of eating, and of 
those classed as edible, it is generallj' better to select only the 
very 3'()ung plants for food. My personal experience with these 
has not extended be3'ond the single species here described. 



EEPOBT OF THE 8TATB BOTANIST 203 

Polyporus sulphureus i^. 

SULPHUKY POLTPORUS. 
Plate 37. Figs. 1 to 4. 

Pileus broad, somewhat irregular and wavy, growing in tufts 
and closely overlapping each other, uneven, reddish or orange 
color when young and fresh, fading with age, flesh white ; tubes 
very small, short, sulphur yellow ; spores elliptical, white, .0003 
in. long. 

The Sulphury polyporus is easily recognized by its clustered 
mode of growth and its attractive colors. The caps are often 
five or six inches broad and they closely overlap each other, 
sometimes forming tufts or clusters of considerable size. Gen- 
erally the flesh is not more than half an inch thick, white and 
easily broken. When young it is soft and juicy, and in warm, 
moist weather it sometimes exudes a yellowish milk or juice if 
cut or broken. In maturity it is dry and almost friable. The 
color of the young cap is yellowish-red or pale-orange, but the 
red or orange soon fades to yellow or becomes mingled with 
yellow. Its color is generally lost in drying. The margin of the 
growing cap is often beautifully yellow. It is more or less wavy 
or irregular. 

The tubes are minute and short. They are of a bright sulphur- 
yellow color, which is more persistent than the red color of the 
cap. 

There is no stem, but sometimes the cap is prolonged on one 
side into a stem-like base. 

This s])ecies has a wide range and is found in all parts of our 
State. It grows in woods and in the open country. Its showy 
clusters are sometimes seen growing from dead spots in the 
trunks of living standing trees. It is perfectly at home on the 
dead wood of nearly all kinds of trees. Even fruit trees some- 
times support it. It may appear at any time from June to Sep- 
tember, but it delights in showerj^ wet weather. 

A variety sometimes occurs which might well be named variety 
(jlome7'atus. In it a multitude of small caps are so closely and 
intimately united that their individuality is lost in the large mass 
which they form. Irregular and unequal holes or cavities in the 
general surface of the mass afford opportunity for a partial de- 



BEPOBT OF TH8 8TATB B0TANI8T 

ve.opmeat of tae pores ov the imperfect caps. This variety is 
said to be more common in some of the western States than it is 
here. 

In using the Sulphury polyporus for food, only the young and 
freshly grown caps were taken. These thinly sliced and fried in 
butter were much better than I had expected to find them. 
Mature specimens would probably be tough, dry. disagreeable 
and indigestible. 

Fistulina Jiui^. 

In the genus Fistulina the tubes stand close to each other, but 
are separate or distinct from each other and do not form a con- 
tinuous compact mass as in Boletus and Pohjporus. They are at 
first very short and resemble minute warts or papillae, but they 
become cylindrical with age. We have only the single species 
here described. 

Fistulina hepatica Fr. 

LiVEK FiSTOLINA. 
Plate 37. FigB. 5 to 9. 

Pileus fleshy, juicj', soft, dark-red, flesh red, variegated with 
brighter streaks ; tubes small at first, yellowish or slightly tinged 
with pink, becoming dingy with age ; spores elliptical, yeilowish, 
.0002 to .00025 inch long. 

The Liver fistulina has received various popular names in 
countries where its edible qualities are generally known. Among 
these are Oak tongue. Chestnut tongue. Beef tongue and Beef- 
steak fungus. Its cap when young is roughened on the upper 
surface with minute papilke, which, with its shape and red color, 
are suggestive of the name Beef tongue. These papillae dis- 
appear with age. In texture it is soft and juicy, but rather 
tough and somewhat fibrous. Its juice is reddish and the flesh 
is streaked with red. Its surface, when moist, is a little sticky 
or clammy to the touch. Generally there is a short lateral stem, 
but occasionally specimens are found without any stem. 

The tubes are on the lower surface of the cap and quite small. 
At first they are like small pimples or papilla;, but they soon 
lengthen and become cylindrical. They are yellowish, more or 
less tiaged with pink when young an 1 fresh, but with age they 
assume a dingy, ochraceous hue which is almost indefinable. 



BEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST 205 

The cap varies from two to six inches or more in breadth. It 
grows from old stumps of oak or chestnut in wet weather in July 
and August. 

This Vegetable beefsteak or Beefsteak fungus has been highly 
commended by European writers. It has a slightly acid flavor, 
which is by no means disagreeable to some palates. Its tough- 
ness may be an objection with some, but it is not more tough 
than beefsteak. Some authors recommend only the young plant 
for food, but another says it is best when fully matured, the 
young fungus being somewhat bitter and astringent. 

" It is good broiled with a steak and properly seasoned ; " " if 
it is not beef itself, it is sauce for it ; " " it is truly a vegetable 
beefsteak, for the taste resembles meat in a remarkable man- 
ner;" "no fungus yields a richer gravy, and, though rather 
tough when broiled, it is scarcely to be distinguished from broiled 
meat," are some of the expressions concerning the edible qualities 
of this fungus. 

Hydneae. 
Hedgehog Mushrooms. 
In the family Hydneae, the cap, when present, has neither gills 
nor pores on its lower surface, but instead of these there are 
numerous spine like or awl-shaped teeth projecting downwards. 
On the surface of these teeth the spores are developed. There 
are several genera in the family, in which these teeth are vari- 
ously modified in shape and size, but as there are no edible 
species among them, they do not concern us now. Our edible 
species belong to the single genus Ilydnum, 

Hydnum L. 

The distinct awl-shaped teeth or spines on the lower surface oC 
the cap, when the cap is present, characterize this genus. In one 
edible species the cap is replaced by numerous branches, on whose 
inferior surface the teeth are developed. There are many species 
which are merely thin, effused membranous expansions, on whose 
surface the teeth are formed, but these furnish no edible species. 

Teeth on the lower surface of a cap H. repandum. 

Teeth on the lower surface of flattened branches .... H. coralloides. 



206 EKPOET OF THB STATE BOTANIST 

Hydnum repandum L. 
Spbeading Hydnum. 

Plate 36. 

Pileus lleshy, fragile, convex or nearly plane, often irregular, 
nearly smooth, variable in color ; spines pointed, whitish ; stem 
stout, whitish or paler than the pileus, solid, often eccentric; 
spores globose, yellowish, .0003 in. broad. 

The Spreading hydnum, or "hedge hog mushroom," figures 1 
to 6, is not rare with us. Its cap is somewhat variable in color. 
It may be a pale-bufif or rusty-yellow or pale-red or sienna-red. 
It is not often well formed and regular. The margin is apt to 
be wav}^ or lobed, and the stem attached to the cap a little to 
one side of the center. The substance is compact but easily 
broken. It is rather dry and whitish, but sometimes changes 
color slightly if cut or broken. 

The spines or needles of the lower surface are about one-fourth 
of an inch long. They are whitish, often slightly tinted with 
yellow or pinkish. 

The stem is mostly short, solid and stout, sometimes thickened 
at the base, sometimes at the top. It is commonly whitish, or 
at least paler than the cap. 

Cap one to four inches broad, stem one to three inches long, 
one-half to three-fourths of an inch thick. 

The Spreading hydnum grows in woods and in open places, 
either on naked soil or among grass or fallen leaves, either singly 
or in clusters. It appears from July to October. 

The Reddish variety. Variety rufescens {Ilydnum rufescena 
Pers.), figures 7 to 10, is smaller, thinner and more regular, with 
the stem mostly central. Its color is more red than in the typi- 
cal form, and by some it is considered a distinct species. It is 
more common in woods. Its edible qualities are similar to those 
of the typical form. 

According to Badham, the Spreading hydnum is as good as oys- 
ters, which it somewhat resembles in taste. Stevenson says it is 
one of the most delicious fungi, but that it requires about four 
hours slow cooking. Berkeley also pronounces it a most excellent 
fungus, but one that requires a little caution in its preparation for 
the table. One method of cooking it consists in first slicing the 
caps and steeping twenty minutes in warm water ; then placing 
in a stew pan with butter, salt, pepper and beef gravy and sim- 



BBPOBT OF THK STATE BOTANIST 207 

mering slowly for an hour. Cooke suggests that, owing to its 
slight pungency of davor both raw and cooked, it may serve as 
a good substitute for mustard, and be placed with the meat in 
sandwiches. It may be dried and preserved for future use. 

Hydnum coralloides Scop. 
CoEAL-LiKE Hydnum. 

Plate Si. Figs. 11 to 13. 

Plant much branched, pure white, sometimes becoming yellow- 
ish with age; branches numerous, spreading, dense, angular or 
flattened, bearing the numerous crowded awl-shaped teeth along 
the lower side ; spores globose, uninucleate, .0002 in. in diameter. 

The Coral-like hydnum departs very decidedly from the usual 
form of the species of this genus, and is so unlike the others that 
it might easily be thought to belong to another genus, and, indeed, 
some French authors have included it in a separate genus Dryo- 
don. It is 80 white, and its branches and spines are so numerous 
and dense, that it has been compared to a cauliflower in its 
general appearance. Others have evidently thought it resembles 
some species of coral. The plant is generally from two to four 
inches high and nearly or quite as broad, but sometimes it 
attains much larger dimensions. The stem is very short, dividing 
into branches almost at the base. The larger branches are more 
or less angular or compressed. The terminal ones are often 
curved upwards and terminate in a crowded, somewhat spread- 
ing, mass of spines. Generally the spines are closely arranged 
along the lower side of the spreading branches and point down- 
ward toward the earth. They vary from one-sixth to one-third 
of an inch in length. They are easily broken. The pure 
white color of the whole plant, when young and fresh, and the 
unusual appearance of the branches, densely and stilliy fringed 
by the pendulous spines, make this fungus a very noticeable and 
an attractive object. It is said that a desire to study fungi was 
first awakened in the illustrious Fries upon his beholding for the 
first time this beautiful species growing in the woods . 

It occurs on prostrate trunks of trees of various kinds, but with 
us it seems to prefer the beech. It is quite common in hilly and 
mountainous woods in rainy weather. It appears from August 
to October. 



208 BEPOBT OF THB STATE BOTANIST 

In our botanical expeditions in the extensive wilderness of the 
Adirondack region we. were often obliged to camp in the woods 
several nights in succession. On such occasions this beautiful 
fungus sometimes contributed a luxurious dish to our ordinarily 
very simple and, sometimes, very limited bill of fare. In such 
cases it proved as good as it was beautiful. 

It is scarely possible to mistake any deleterious fungus for this, 
and it also has the advantage of generally being free from the 
attacks of insects and from dirt. 

Thelephoreae. 
CoRNUcoi'iA Mushrooms. 
In the family Thelephoreaj the hymenium or spore-bearing 
surface is reduced to its utmost simplicity. It is a perfectly even 
surface of the hymenophore, or one rendered slightly uneven by 
obscure wrinkles or inconspicuous papilhv or granules. But few 
species have a distinct stem and cap. Probably no edible species 
will be found outside the genus Vraterellus. 

CraterelKis Fr. 
In the genus Craterellus the spore bearing surface is even or 
slightly rugose or wrinkled. The caps are generally thin and 
sometimes long and narrowly obconical or funnel-shaped. A 
single representative species is here described. 

Craterellus cornucopioides Pers. 
Cornucopia. CRA.TERELLns. 

ri&te24. rig8. TtolO. 

Pileus thin, flexible, tubiform, hollow to the base, blackish- 
brown, sometimes a little scaly ; hymenium even or somewhat 
rugose-wrinkled, cinereous; stem ver^"^ short, almost wanting; 
spores elliptical, whitish, .OOoS to .0007 in. long. 

The Cornucopia craterellus, or " Uorn of plenty," is more 
common than attractive. It is easily recognized by its elongated 
tubular or narrowly trumpet-shaped cap and its dingy -gra^' or 
sooty-brown hue. It takes its name from its peculiar shape. 
Its flesh is quite thin, a little tough, flexible and dry. The 
surface of the caji is smooth or but slightly roughened 
with a few obscure fibrous tufts or scales. The color varies 
from grayish to a dark smoky-brown or sooty hue. The 



BKPOET OF THE STATK BOTANIST 209 

margin is sometimes erect, sometimes widely spreading and 
decurved like the margin of a trumpet's mouth. It is often 
wavy, lobed, irregular, folded or overlapping, or split. The 
cavity of the cap extends to the very base. 

The spore-bearing surface is commonly a little paler than the 
upper surface and varies from ashy-gray to pinkish brown or 
dark smoky-brown. It is generally a little uneven or rugose- 
wrinkled. It extends nearly or quite to the ground, the stem 
being very short or almost wanting. 

The cap is from two to four inches long and one to two and a 
half broad at the top. The plants grow gregariously or in tufts 
in woods and shaded places. It is found especially in old roads 
in woods on naked soil, or on shaded banks, but sometimes it 
grows among fallen leaves or mosses. It may be found from 
July to September. 

Cordier and some other French writers class this fungus among 
the edible species, but say that it is not very popular because of 
its thin flesh and dark color. Dr. Cooke admits that his first 
trial of this fungus was so satisfactory that he never missed an 
opportunity afterwards of gathering them for the table, and he 
says that a friend who learned of the edible qualities of this 
fungus from him now thinks nothing of walking six or eight 
miles to procure a dish of this craterellus. 

Clavariese. 

Fairy Cldbs. 

In this family no definite cap is developed, and no definite 
inferior fertile surface. The plants are of upright growth, either 
simple or branched, and the spores are developed on the upper 
or exterior surface of the plant or of its branches. The edible 
soecies are found in the single genus Clavaria. 

Clavaria Vaill. 
In this genus the fleshy plant is either simple or branched. 
"When simple it is commonly slightly thickened upward, assum- 
ing a shape similar to a club, a character which has suggested 
the generic name. In some of the branched species the branches 
are very numerous and crowded and the plants have an appear- 
ance strongly suggestive of a bush in miniature. The flesh in 
some species is very tender and fragile. 
27 



210 EEPOET OF THE SfATE BOTANIST 

In collecting them for eating care must be exercised to select 
only sound specimens, for insect larva? usually enter the plant at 
or near the base, so that the branches may appear sound while 
the larv;i3 are at work below. Disappointment in the flavor will 
result from the use of the sound branches of such plants, for 
their flavor is spoiled by the presence of the larvaj in the base of 
the plant. No dangerous species are known in this genus, but 
some have a disagreeable flavor. 

Tips of the branches yellow C. flava. 

Tips of the branches red C. botrytes. 

Tips of the branches colored like the branches C. cristata. 

Clavaria flava Schceff. 
Pale-tellow Clavabia. 

Plate 39. Figs. 1 to 4. 

Stem short, thick, white, much branched ; branches terete, 
even, fastigiate, whitish or yellowish, the tips pale yellow ; spores 
oblong-elliptical, yellowish, .0003 to .00045 inch long. 

The Pale-yellow clavaria has a very thick but short, fleshy, white 
stem, which supports many smooth crowded branches. These 
divide and subdivide until the upper part of the plant is a dense 
mass of small branchlets, each one of which terminates in one to 
three blunt tooth like points. The stem and branches are white 
or whitish, sometimes slightly tinged with yellowish hues, but 
the ultimate branchlets or points are a clear, i)ale yellow while 
young and fresh. When old the 3'ellow tips are apt to fade, and 
then the whole plant is nearly uniformly colored. The flesh is 
white and its taste agreeable. The ])lants are from two to five 
inches high, and the mass of branches is nearly as broad. It 
grows in thin woods and open places, and may be found from 
July to September. 

A''ittadini says that this clavaria is less esteemed in Italy than 
the Red-tipped clavaria. Ilo(|ues says it furnishes a healthful 
food and one easy of digestion, that it is commonly eaten in 
France and in great demand in Germany. Wy own experiments 
in eating it lead me to give it high commendation. Its flesh is 
tender and well flavored, and it seems to me nothing better could 
be desired by the mycophagist, 



EEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST 211 

Clavaria botrytes Pers. 
Red-tipped Clavaeia. 

Plate 39 F.gs. 5 to 7. 

Stem short, thick, fleshy, whitish, much branched ; branches 
often somewhat rugose-wrinkled, repeatedly branched, the tips 
red ; spores oblong-elliptical, .UU05 to .U0U6 in. long. 

The Red-tipped clavaria differs but little from the preceding 
species in size and structure, but is easily distinguished by the 
red tips of the branches. The color elsewhere may be whitish 
or yellow or pinkish. When old the tips sometimes fade, and 
then it is less easy to separate this species from the Pale yellow 
clavaria. The branches are sometimes longitudinally wrinkled. 
It grows in thin woods and open places, and may be found in wet 
weather in July, August and September. Nearly all mycologists 
agree in classing this u mong the edible species. They ascribe to it 
delicious qualities and an agreeable flavor. Unfortunately, it is 
not very common in our Stale. 

Clavaria cristata Pers. 
Chested Clavakia. 

Plate 89. Figs. 8 to 12. 

Stem rather slender, even, tenacious, stuffed, branched; 
branches dilated above, acutely incised or crested, the tips gener- 
ally becoming brown with age ; spores globose or broadh' ellip- 
tical, white, .00025 to .0003 in. long. 

The Crested clavaria is smaller than either of the two species 
alreaay described, but it is much more abundant. It is not often 
more than two or two and a half inches high, but it often grows 
in tufts as broad as they are high. It varies in color, but is com- 
monly white or whitish. Sometimes it has a dingy look as if it 
had been smoked. Again it is faintly tinged with dull pink or 
cream 3' -yellow. It is easily recognized by the peculiar tips of the 
branches. These are rather slender and acute or pointed, and 
sometimes so numerous as to give a crested appearance to the 
apically-flattened branch they terminate. "When old they usu- 
ally turn brown or blackish-brown at the tips. Unusual forms 
of the plant occur in which these acute terminal branchlets are 
wanting. The branches then end abruptly in a blunt point. 
Perhaps these forms are referable to C. coralloides, but that is 
described as having the tips of the branches acute. 



212 EEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST 

The Crested clavaria gron^s ia woods aad in open places. It is 
especially common in the hilly and mountainous districts of the 
State. It loves cool, shaded and moist places, and grows on 
naked soil or among mosses and sphagnum. It usually grows in 
groups, sometimes in lines, and it is so plentiful that it is not 
difficult in some localities to gather enough for the table in a 
short time. 

Poisonous and Unwholesome Fungi. 

As has already Ijeen stated, the most dangerous fungi appear 
to belong to the single genus Amanita, and probably most of the 
fatal accidents from mushroom poisoning are due to two or three 
species. The characters of the genus need not be repeated here. 
The prominent distinctive features of the species here described 
are indicated in the brief tabular statement annexed. 

Cap warty, striate on the margin A. muscaria. 

Cap not warty, even on the margin 1 

1 Remains of the membrauous wrapper closely pressed 

to the base of the stem A. verna. 

1 Remains of the wrapper distant from the base of the 

stem A. phalloides. 

These plants are not ordinarily poisonous to handle, nor are 
they repulsive in taste or odor. They are clean and attractive in 
appearance, and the symptoms of poisoning that follow their use 
as food are slow in appearing. 

On the other hanil, tii(;sc that are classed as unwholesome 
usually i)osses3 some character that may be taken as an indication 
of their unwholesoraeness, though this is not always a sure guide 
to follow. Their toughness of texture, their nauseous and acrid 
taste, or their intolerable odor, will in most cases sound a note 
of warning. 

A single species will hero be illustrated and described as a 
representative of this class of fungi. It is the Bitter boletus, 
Boletus felleus. 

Amanita muscaria A. 
Fi.v Amanita. False Orange. 

Plate 42. 

Pileus warty, slightly striate on the margin; lamellae white; 
stem annulate, bulbous thickened at the base where it is more or 



EEPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST 213 

less scaly iv:>m the fragments of the ruptured volva ; spores 
broadly elliptical, white, .0(i03 to .OOOi inch long. 

The Fly amanita is our most common poisonous species. It is 
also very variable in size and in the color of its cap. It is gen- 
erally a most showy and attractive plant. The cap is adorned 
with numerous white or yellowish warts, the remains of the 
upper part of the wrapper. It is more or less striated on its 
margin, but individuals sometimes occur in which the striations 
are very inconspicuous or even wholly wanting. The color is 
bright-red, scarlet or orange in the young plant, but this nearly 
always fades to yellow on the margin in the mature plant. 
In one variety the cap is wholly yellow, and in another it is 
white. The fading process often goes on until the orange and 
yellow hues are replaced by whitish ones. The warts of the cap 
are sometimes washed off by heavy rains, so that it is possible to 
find specimens of this species without warts. The llesh is white, 
but except in white forms it is yellowish just under the epider- 
mis. The gills are white, or in some cases slightl}^ tinged with 
yellow. The same remark applies to the stem. This is furnished 
with a collar and terminates in a bulb at the base. This bulb 
is not broad and abrupt above as in the Poison amanita, but is 
gradually narrowed into the stem so that it has a somewhat 
ovate form. It, as well as the base of the stem, is more or less 
scaly from the adhering fragments of the wrapper, the remains 
of which do not adhere in an entire membranous sheath as in the 
Orange amanita and Sheathed amanita. As in other species, the 
stem may l)e either stuffed or hollow. 

Cap three to eight inches broad ; stem four to six inches long ; 
one-half an inch or more in thickness. 

It grows both in woods and in open places and pastures. It 
occurs from June till the freezing weather of October or 
November. . 

Very diverse statements concerning the properties of this 
fungus have been recorded. While some have attributed to it 
edible qualities, others have asserted that it is a most active 
poison and has caused numerous accidents by being confused 
with the Orange amanita. It is said to have caused death even 
when eaten in small quantities, and again it is said to have been 
eaten in abundance without any evil result. According to Quelet, 



214 KEPOET OF THE 8TA.TB BOTANIST 

it acts as a cathartic if eaten in small quantity, but causes death if 
eaten freely. One of my own correspondents assures mo that he 
has eaten of the yellow variety, Y&T.formosa, Fig. 6, without 
evil results, and that he regards it as very good. But there 
is no disputing the fact that the species possesses intoxicating 
and poisonous properties. It has long had the reputation 
of possessing properties fatal to flies that sip its juice. 
This suggests the names muscaria. Fly amanita, Fly agaric and 
Fly killer by which it is known. I have myself seen the cap ol 
a single specimen surrounded h\ a circle of lifeless flies that had 
sipped the viscid juice from its moist surface and fallen victimc 
to its virulent properties before leaving the place of their fatal 
repast. 

Some have attempted an explanation of the contradictory 
statements concerning this plant by supposing that its poiconou: 
properties are not always developed, that in some localities or 
under some favorable circumstances it is harmless. This explana- 
tion violates our sense of the constancy of Nature, and is not 
at all satisfactory. In the case of my own correspondent, the 
caps were peeled before cooking. ]\Iay it not be that much of 
the noxious quality resides in the epidermis and the viscid sub- 
stance upon it, and that by discarding this the dish is rendered 
less dangerous? In some instances may it not be true that it 
was eaten in too limited quantity to produce evil consequences ? 
In some cases it is said that those who eat it freely and without 
harm boil it a long time in water and throw away the water. 
In this way, doubtless, much of the poison is abstracted. Long 
soaking in salt and water, also in vinegar, have been recom- 
mended as a means of rendering suspected or noxious species 
harmless, and may have been practiced in some of the cases in 
which this fungus has been eaten with impunity.* Whatever 
may be the explanation of the contradictory statements, the only 
safe way is to consider this species as deleterious and avoid its 
use under all circumstances. There is no need of taking any 
risks with suspected species, since there are so many good ones 
against which no charjje of evil has ever been established. 

• Since thl8 was written another correspondent writes that he has eaten as many as four caps 
of thn yellowUh form of this species at one meal and wllhout any evil consequences, and thai 
the caps were mt peeled. Thli makes pertinent the (I'lestion, Is this variety, Indeed, a distinct 
and harmless species? It scarcely teems possihie that the different experiences are explainable 
by reason of indlTlduai Idiosyncrasy, or by variation in the properUes of the planL 



BEPOKT OF THE STATE BOTANIST 



215 



It is said that some ol ihe people of northern Asia make an 
intoxicating liquor of this fungus by steeping it in water. 

Forms of this species occasionally occur which are wholly 
white or whitish. They are referable to Variety alba. 

Amanita Frosiiana, Frost's amanita, is found in more dense 
woods. It might easily be taken for a very small form of the 
Fly amanita. Its cap is only one or two inches broad, its gills 
and stem are of ten yellow, its collar is slight and of ten evanescent 
and the base of the stem is not scaly, the bulb being slightly 
margined by the remains of the wrapper. 

Amanita verna Bull. 
Veknal Amanita. 

Plate 41. FIgB. 4to7. 

Pilcus glabrous, even on the margin, white, viscid when moist; 
lamellai white ; stem annulate, white, floccose, stuffed or hollow, 
closely sheathed at the base by the remains of the membranous 
volva, bulbous ; spores globose, .0003 inch broad. 

The Vernal amanita scarcely differs from white forms of the 
Poison amanita except in the more persistent and more closely 
sheathing remains of the wrapper at the base of the stem. It is 
probably only a variety of that species, as most mycologists now 
regard it, and it should be considered quite'as dangerous. I have 
not found it earlier than in July, although in Europe it is said to 
appear in spring, as its name implies. 

Amanita phalloides IV. 
Poison Amanita. 

Plates 40 and 41. Figs. 1 to 3. 

Pileus glabrous, even on the margin, white, greenish or brown; 
lamella? white ; stem annulate, abruptly bulbous at the base, the 
bulb slightly and loosely margined above by the remains of the 
volva ; spores globose, white, .0003 in. broad. 

The Poison amanita is very variable in the color of the cap, 
and yet is so definite in its structural characters that only the 
most careless observer would be likely to confuse it with any 
other species. There is, however, a sort of deceptive character 
about it. It is very neat and attractive in its appearance and 
"looks as if it might be good enough to eat."' This appearance 



216 RKPOET OF THE STATE BOTANIST 

is fortified by the absence of any decidedly unpleasant odor or 
taste, but let him who would eat it beware, for probably there is 
not a more poisonous or dangerous species ia our mycological 
tiora. To eat it is to invite death. 

The cap is wholly destitute of warts and of striations on its 
margin. It varies in color, from white to a dark smoky-brown. 
In the most common form it is white or a very pale greenish- 
yellow, as if it was white slightly tinged with yellow or green- 
ish yellow. I have never seen in it the decidedly green or olive- 
green colors which it appears often to have in Europe, and which 
are often indicated in figures of this species. There are two 
brown forms, one having the cap grayish-brown, as in figures 1 
and 2, the other having it a dark smoky-brown, as shown in 
figures 3 to 5. The forms having a grayish or grayish-brown 
cap sometimes have the center of the cap darker colored or 
almost black. In Europe there is a white form with a black cen- 
ter to the cap. 

The gills are persistently white. Thej' are rather broad, rounded 
at the end next the stem and free from it. 

The stem is white in the white-cap forms, but in those having 
a dark-brown cap it is usually tinged with brown, but is paler 
than the cap. The same is true of the collar. These dark-col- 
ored forms are more frequent in the cool woods of mountainous 
regions than elsewhere. When j'oung the stem may be stuffed 
with a cottony pith, but it becomes hollow with age. The bulb 
at the base of the stem is an important character and should 
always be taken into consideration in the identification of the 
species. It is very abrupt, broad and distinct. Its breadth is 
often greater than its length. It is generally narrowly margined 
on the upper side by the remains of the wrapper. Sometimes 
this margin is reduced to a mere acute rim. It is distant from 
the stem, not closely pressed as in the Vernal amanita, and is 
frequently split or notched. 

The cap is three to five inches broad, the stem three to si.v 
inches long and one-third to one-half an inch thick. The bulb 
is from one to one and a half inches broad. 

The Poison amanita grows in woods, groves, open places and 
bushy pastures, and may ba found from July to October. It is 
a common fungus. 



eepoet of the state botanist 217 

I suspect that fatal cases of mushroom poisoning are especially 
attributable to the Vernal amanita and the white forms of the 
Poison amanita. But such accidents could only occur through 
ignorance or gross carelessness, for the distinction between these 
and the common mushroom is plain and unmistakable. It may 
be exhibited as follows: 

Poison amanita. Gills persistently white; stem equal to or 
longer than the diameter of the cap, with a hroad distinct bulb at 
the base. 

Common mushroom. Gills pink, becoming blacHsh-broion ; stem 
shorter than the diameter of the cap, with no bulb at the base. 

From all forms of the edible Sheathed amanitopsis, the Poison 
amanita differs in its distinctly bulbous stem, in having a collar 
on the stem and in the absence of striations on the margin of the 
cap. 

From the edible Reddish amanita, it is easily separated by the 
entire absence of any reddish hues or stains and of warts from its 
cap. 

From the Smooth lepiota its distinct, abrupt and margined 
bulb at once distinguishes it. 

Boletus felleus Bull. 
BiTTEE Boletus. 

Plate 43. 

Pileus fleshy, convex above, glabrous or nearly so, grayish- 
brown, buff brown, reddish-brown or tawny, flesh white, taste 
bitter ; tubes long, convex in the mass in mature plants, at first 
whitish, becoming pale flesh color; stem equal or ta))ering 
upwards, usually reticulated at the toj) only, rarely wholly 
reticulated, commonly a little paler than the pileus; spores 
oblong-fusiform, pinkish, .0005 to .0007 inch long. 

The Bitter boletus takes its name from the bitter flavor which 
its flesh persistently maintains. It is a common species, and one 
easily recognized by its reticulated stem and flesh-colored tubes 
taken in connection with its bitter taste. 

The cap is rather thick, dry and smooth, but quite variable in 
color. This is generally some shade of brown tinged with red or 
yellow. The flesh is white, but when cut or broken and exposed 
to the air it sometimes assumes a pinkish tint. 
23 



218 KEPOBT OF THE STATB BOTANIST 

The mass of tubes is generally somewhat convex in the mature 
plant, though it may be plane in the young plant. This also 
sometimes assumes a pinkish stain where bruised. 

The stem varies greatly in length and thickness, and is some- 
times crooked and deformed. It is usually reticulated at the top 
only. 

Cap one and a half to four inches broad ; stem one to four 
inches long, one-third to two-thirds of an inch thick. 

The Bitter boletus occurs in woods and in open places. A 
favorite place of growth is in a soil largely composed of decayed 
wood and other vegetable matter. It is frequently found growing 
about much-decayed stumps and prostrate trunks of hemlock 
trees. It may be found from July to September. 

The taste of the tiesh in this Boletus, as well as in many species 
of Lactarius and Russula, is an important aid in the specific iden- 
tification. In tasting fungi for this purpose care should betaken 
to select only fresh, sound specimens, and the part tasted should 
not be swallowed. 



LIST OF PLATES AND SPECIES. 



Plate 

A Diagrammatic 

1 



representation of parts of mushrooms 
Lycoperdon giganteum Batsch. Giant Puff-ball 



fFigs. 
8 J L'gs- 



1 Figs. 8 to 
LFige. 11 to 



1 to 3 
4 to 7 
10 
13 



*lFig8. 



Ito 4 
5to 9 



Figs. 1 to 8 



Figs. 
Figs. 



4 to 7 
8 to 14 



L. cyathiforme Bosc. 

Morchella esculenta Pert. 
M. deliciosa Fr. 
M. bispora Sor. 
M. seinilibera DC. 

M. conica Pers. 

M. angusiiceps Peck. 

Gyromitra esculenta Ff. 
Helvella crispa Fr. 



Figs. 1 to 6 
Figs. 7 to 12 



10 



n\l^^ 



Figs. 



1 to e 

7 to II 



12 



13 



■1 

16 
16 

17 

18 

19 
SO 



'Figs. 1 to 6 
Figs. 7 to 14 
Figs. 15 to 20 

; Figs. 1 to 6 

Figs. 7 to 11 

' Figs. 12 to 21 



Cup-shaped Puff-baU 

Common Morel 
Dolicioua Morel 
Two-spored Morel 
Half-free Morel 

Conical Morel 
Narrow- cap Morel 

j Esculent Gyromitra 
j Edible HelveUa 
White Helvella 



Mitrula viteUina v. irregularis Irregular Mitrula 
Peck. 



Agaricus campester L. 
A. subrufescens Peck. 

A- arvensis Schaff. 

A. Rodmani Peck. 
A. placomyces Peck. 

Coprinus comatus Pr 

C. micaceus Fr. 

C. atramentarius Fr. 

Cortinarius violaceus Fr. 

C. coUinitus Fr. 
C. cinnamonieus Fr. 
C. cinnamomeus v. semiss 
guineas Fr. 

Clitopilus prunulus Scop. 
C. orceUa Bull. 
Marasmius oreades Fr. 

Amanita csesarea Seop, 

A. rubescens F^. 

Amanitopsis vaginata Roee. 

Lepiota procera Scop. 

L. naucinoides Peck. 
Armillaria mellea VaM. 



Common Mushroom 

Slightly reddish Mush- 
room 

( Field Mushroom 
( Horse Mushroom 

Rodman's Mushroom 
Flat-cap Mushroom 

Shaggy Coprinus 

Glistening Coprinus 
Inky Coprinus 

Violet Cortinarius 

Smeared Cortinarius 
Cinnamon Cortinarius 
Half -red Cortinarius 

Plum Clitopilus 
Sweet-bread Mushroom 
Fairy-ring Mushroom 

Orange Amanita 

Reddish Amanita 

Sheathed Amanitopsis 

( Parasol Mushroom 
( Tall Lepiota 

Smooth Lepiota 

Honey-colored Armillaria 



220 



BEPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST 



Plate 

^^ 1 Figs. 

22 

oo j Figs. 
^^JFigs. 



1 to 5 Tricholoma transmutans Peck. 
6 to 11 T. iiubricatum Fr. 

T. personatum Pr. 

1 to 7 Clitocybe media Peck. 
8 to 13 C. nebularis Batxch. 



24 



25 



26 



C. infundibuliforrais Selueff. 
, i^s"- • --y^ '^ Craterellus eornucopioides Per 
( Figs. 11 to 13 Uydnum coralloides Scop. 

Clitocybe laccata Scop. 

Pleurotus ulmarius Bull. 

5 to 9 P. ostreatus Fr. 



Figs. 
Figs. 



^Figs. 



1 to 6 

7 to 10 



Ito 4 



I Figs. 



27 

( Figs. 1 to 10 

28-^ Figs. 11 to 17 

( Figs. 18 to 28 

29 



30 

31 
32 

33 

34 

35 

36 

Q, i Figs— 1 to 4 
*" j Figs. 5 to 9 

38 



P. sapidus Kalchb. 

Hygrophorus miniatus Fr. 
H. pratensis fY. 
Paxillus involutus J'V. 

Lactarius deliciosus Fr. 

L. voljemus Fr. 

Russula virescens Fr. 
CanthareUus cibarius Fr. 



Figs. 
Figs. 


Ito 6 
7 to 12 


Boletus subluteus Peek. 
B. luteus L. 


( Figs. 
(Figs. 


Ito 5 
6 to 10 


B. granulatus L. 
B. versipellis F¥. 

B. scaber Fr. 


(Figs. 
■ Figs. 


Ito 7 
8 to 12 


B. castaneus Bull. 
B. edulis Bull. 



{ Figs. 

39 \ Figs. 

( Figs. 



Ito 4 
5to 7 
8 to 12 



40 



41 j ^^ 



Figs. 



1 to 3 
4to 7 



42 
43 



Polyporus sulphureus Fr. 
Fistulina hepatica Fr. 

Hydnutu repandum L. 

Clavaria flava Schcejf. 
C. botrytes Pers. 
C. cristata Pers. 

Amanita phalloides Fr. 

A. phalloides Fr. 
A. verna Bull. 

A. muscaria L. 

Boletus telleus null. 



Changing Tricholoma 
Imbricated Tricholoma 

Masked Tricholoma 

Intermediate Clitocybe 
Clouded Clitocybe 

Funnel-form Clitocybe 
s. Cornucopia Crater, llua 
C.jral-like Hydnum 

Laccate Clitocybe 

Elm Pleurotus 
( Oyster Pleurotus 
j Oyster Mushroom 

Sapid Pleurotus 

Vermilion Hygrophorus 
Meadow Hygrophorus 
Involute Paxillus 

Delicious Lactarius 

( Orange Lactarius 

j Orange-brown Lactarius 

Greenish Russula 

Chantarelle 

Smnll yellowish Boletus 
Yellow-brown Boletus 

Granulated Boletus 
Orange-cap Boletus 

Rough-stemmed Boletus 

Chestnut Boletus 
Edible Boletus 

Sulphury Polyporus 
Liver Fistulina 

Spreading Hydnum 

Pale-yellow Clavaria 
Red-tipped Chwaria 
Crested Clavaria 

Poison Amanita 

Poison Amanita (Whitish) 
"Vernal Amanita 

Fly Amanita 

Bitter Boletus 



EXPLANATION OF PLATE A. 

Fig. 1 An Amanita; c the pUeus or cap; m the striated margin of the cap; 

g the lamelUe or gills; a the annulu.t, ring or collar; s the stem; 

V the volva or wrapper; mc Uie mycelium or spawn. 
Fig. 2 A Boletus; c the cap; 2> the tubes or pores; a the collar; s the stem; 

mc the mycelium. 



Fig. 


4 


Fig. 


5 


Fig. 


6 


Fig. 


7 


Fig. 


8 


Fig. 


9 


Fig. 


10 


Fig. 


11 


Fig. 


12 



KEPOET OF THB STATE BOTANIST 221 

Fig. 3 A Hydnum; c the cap; t tho aculei or teeth; s the stem; mc the 

myeeliwn. 
Figs. 4 to 8 Vertical sections of caps and the upper part of their stems 
showing the relations of gills to stems. 

Gills free from the stem; stem hollow. 

Gills adnexed; stem stuffed. 

Gills adnate; stem solid. 

Gills emarginate, also adnate and having a decurrent tooth. 

Gills decurrent. 

A plant with its cap umbonate, also squamose, and its stem bulbous. 

A plant with its cap umbilicate, its gills decurrent and its stem equal. 

A basidium with its four spores. 

Ad aacus containing eight spores. 

PLATE 1. 

LYCOrERDON aiOANTEUY Batsch. 

Oiant Puff-ball. 

Fig. 1 An immature plant; about one-half the natural size. 
" 2 A mature plant with its rind above breaking into fragments, falling 

away and exposing the dusty mass of spores; about half the 

natural size. 
' ' 3 Two fragments of filaments from the spore mass, magnified about 

400 diameters. 
' ' 4 Several spores, X 400. 

PLAIE 2. 

LYCOPERDON CYATHIFORME BOSC. 

Cup-shaped Puff-ball. 

Fig. 1 An immature plant. 

" 2 A full-grown plant with even surface. 

" 3 A full grown plant with the surface cracked into areas or broad 
spot-like scales. 

" 4 A mature plant with the upper part of the rind bre;iking into frag- 
ments, falling away and exposing the purplish spore mass. 

' ' 5 The ragged cup-shaped base of an old plant after the upper part of 
the rind and the spore mass have been dispersed. 

' ' 6 Vertical section through an immature plant. 

' ' 7 Two fragments of filaments from the spore mass, X 400. 

' ' 8 Seven spores, X 400. 

PLATE 3. 

MOBCHELLA ESCULENTA Per*. 

Ccntimon Morel. 
Fig. 1 A mature plant. 
' ' 2 Vertical section through the center of a mature plant. 
" 3 A spore sack containing eight spores, X 400. 



222 BEPOBT OP THE BTATB BOTANIST 

MORCHELLA DELICIOSA J^. 

Delicious Morel. 

Figs. 4 and 5 Mature plants, two fonas. 
' ' 6 Vertical section through the center of a mature plant. 
" 7 A spore sack containing eight spores, X 400. 

MORCHELLA BI8P0RA SoT, 

Two-S2}ored Morel. 
Fig. 8 A mature plant. 
' ' 9 Vertical section through the center of a mature plant. 
" 10 A spore sack containing two spores, X 400. 

MOBCHELLA SEMILIBERA DC. 

Half-free Morel. 
Fig. 11 A mature plant. 
' ' 12 Vertical section through the center of a mature plant. 
'' 13 A spore sack containing eight spores, X 400. 

PLATE 4. 

MORCHELLA CONICA Per8. 

Conical Morel. 
Figs. 1 and 2 Mature plants. 
' ' 3 Vertical section through the center of a mature plant. 
" 4 A spore sack containing eight spores, X 400. 

MORCHELLA ANGUSTICEP8 Peek. 

Narrow-cap Morel. 
Figs. 5, 6 and 7 Mature plants of various forms. 
' ' 8 Vertical section through the center of a mature plant' 
" 9 A spore sack containing eight spores, X 400. 

PLATE 5. 

Gyromitra esculenta Fr. 

Esculent Oyromitra. Edible Helvella. 

Fig. 1 A mature plant. 
' ' 3 Vertical section through the center of a mature plant. 
" 3 A spore sack containing eight spores, X 400. 

Helvella crispa Fr. 

Figs. 4, 5 and 6 Mature plants of various forms. 
" 7 A spore sack containing eight spores, X 400. 

MiTRCLA VITELUNA Sacc. var. IRREGULARIS J'eck, 

Irregular Mitrula. 

Figs. 8 to 13 Mature plants of various forms. 
" 14 A spore sack containing eight spores, X 400. 



BBFOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST 9S8 

PLATE 6. 

Aqaricus campester L. 

Common Mushroom. 

Fig. 1 A cluster of three young plants, in one of which the veil has just 

separated from the margin of the cap, thereby revealing the gills. 
3 and 3 Plants with their caps partly expanded and their gills yet 

pink-colored . 
" 4 A mature plant with its rap fully expanded and its gills blackish-brown. 
' ' 5 Vertical section of the cap and upper pant of the stem of an immature 

plant. 
' ' 6 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a mature 

plant. 
' ' 7 Four spores, X 400. 

"'^ariety HORTEN8I8, 
Fig. 8 An immature plant. 
" 9 A mature plant. 
■ ' 10 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 7. 

AOARICDS SUBRCFESCENS Peck. 

Slightly Reddish Miuhroom. 
Fig. 1 A young plant whose veil has just separated from the margin of the 
cap, revealing the whitish color of the gUls. 
" 2 A cluster of four plants, two young, and two older ones with the caps 

partly expanded und the gills yet of a pinkish hue. 
" 3 A single plant approaching maturity. 

" 4 A mature plant whose gills have assumed the blackish-brown color. 
' ' 5 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a yoimg 

plant. 
" 6 Verticalsectionof the cap and upper part of the stem of a middle-aged 

plant. 
' ' 7 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a mature 

plant. 
' ' 8 Four spores, X 400. 
' ' 9 Branching strings of mycelium. 

PLATE 8. 

Aqaricus arvensis Schaff. 

Field Mushroom. Horse Mushroom. 

Fig. 1 A young plant with the veil just separated from the margin of the 

cap. 

" i A plant wiih the cap partly expanded, showing the dingy pinkish 

hue of the gills. 



224 EKPOBT OF THB STATB BOTANIST 

Fig. 3 A mature plant with the cap fully expanded and the gills of a blackish- 
brown color. 

' ' 4 Vertical section of the cap and the upper part of the stem of a young 
plant. 

' ' S Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a mature 
plant. 

•' 6 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 9. 

AOARICCS RODMANI Peck. 

Rodman's Mushroom. 
g. I A young plant. 
' 2 A plant with the cap partly expanded, showing the pinkish color of 

the gills. 
' 3 A mature plant with the cap fully expanded. 
' 4 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of an immature 

plant. 
' 5 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem.of a mature 

plant. 
' 6 Four spores, X 400. 

Aqaricus placomyces Peck. 
Flat-cap Mushroom. 
Fig. 7 A young plant with the veil just separated from the margin of the 
cap. 
" 8 A plant with the cap partly expanded. 
" 9 A mature plant with the cap fully expandea. 
' ' 10 Vertical section of the can and upper part of the stem of an immature 

plant. 
" 11 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a mature 

plant, 
' ' 13 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 10. 
CtoPRINUS COMATUS Fr. 

Shaggy Coprinus. 
Fig. 1 A young plant. 
' ' 2 and 3 Immature plants with the cap beginning to split on the margin 

and the gills beginning to assume the pinkish and blackish hues. 
" 4 A mature plant with the margin of the cap much split and recurved 

and the gills blackened, deliquescing and dripping with an inky 

fluid. 
' ' 6 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a young 

plant. 
' ' Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a plant 

approaching maturity. 
• • 7 Four spores, X 400. 



BEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST 225 

PLATE 11. 

COPRINUS MICACEUS Fr. 

Glistening Coprinus, 

Fig. 1 A cluster of seven immature plants. 

" 2 A mature plant showing the blackened gills. 

" 3 A mature plant with the margin of the cap split and somewhat 
recurved. 

' ' 4 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of an imma- 
ture plant. 

' ' 5 Vertical section of tho cap and upper part of the stem of a mature 
plant, the blackened deliquescing gills dripping with an inky fluid. 

' ' 6 Four spores, >: 400. 

COPIUNUS ATRAMENTAR US Fr. 

Inky Coijrinus. 

Fig. 7 A cluster of four plants, one of them young. 
" 8 A mature plant. 

' ' 9 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of an imma- 
ture plant. 
' ' 10 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the £tem of a mature 

plant, showing the blackened dripping gills. 
" 11 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 12. 

CORTINARICS VIOLACEUS Fr. 

Violet Cortinarius. 
Fig. 1 A young plant. 

" 2 A plant w ith the cap partly expanded. 

" 3 A plant with the cap partly expanded, showing the color of the gills. 

" 4 A plant with the cap fully expanded. 

' ' 5 Vertical section of a cap and the upper part of the stem of an imma- 
ture plant. 

' ' 6 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a mature 
plant. 

' ' 7 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 13. 

Cortinarius colunitus Fr. 

Smeared Cortinariiis. 

Fig. 1 A young plant showing the webby veil. 
' ' 2 and 3 Immature plants showing the colot of the young gills. 
" 4 A mature plant with the cap fully expanded. 
" 5 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a mature 

plant. 
' ' 6 Four spores, X 400. 

29 



226 KEPOKT OF THE STATE BOTANIST 

CORTINARIUS CINNAMOMEUS Fr. 

Cinnamon Cortinarius. 

Fig. 7 A young plant showing the webby veil. 
" 8, 9 and 10 Immature plants showing the color of the youn-g gills. 
" 11 and 12 Mature plants showing the color of the mature gills. 
" 13 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a mature plant. 
' ' 14 Four spores, X 400. 

Variety semisawgdineus Fr. 

Half-red Cortinarius. 

Fig. 15 A young plant showing the webby veil. 
• ' 16 and 17 Immature plants showing the color of the young gills. 
" 18 A mature plant showing the jolor of the mature gills. 
" 19 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a matured plant. 
' ' 20 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 14. 

Clitopilus prxjnulus Scop. 

Plum Clitopilus 
Fig. 1 A young plant. 
' ' 2 and 3 Mature plants, one having the margin of the cap wavy or 

irregular. 
' ' 4 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a young plant. 
' ' 5 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a mature 

plant. 
' ' 6 Four spores, X 400. 

Clitopilus orcella Bull. 

Sweet-bread Mushroom. 
Fig. 7 A young plant. 
' ' 8 and 9 Mature plants. 
' ' 10 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a mature 

plant. 
" 11 Four spores, X 400. 

Makasmics oreades Fr. 

Fairy-ring Mushroom. 

Fig. 12 A plant showing slight striations on tlio margin of the cap. 

" 12, 13, 14 and 15 Plants showing the usual color whea fr sh and moist. 

' ' 16 and 17 Plants showing the usual color after the evaporation of the 

moisture. 
' ' 18, 19 and 20 Vertical sections of the caps and upper part of the stems of 

three plants of different forms or stages of development 
' ' 21 Four spores, X 400. 



EEPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST 227 

PLATE 15. 

Amanita c^sarea Scop. 

Orange Avianita. 

Figs, lands Two young plants just emerged from the wrapper. 
' ' 3 and 4 Immature plants with the caps partly expanded. 
" 5 A mature plant with the cap fully expanded and its margin faded to 

a yellow color. 
' ' 6 Vertical section of a cap and the upper part of its stem showing the 

color of the flesh and gills and the cavity in the stem. 
' ' 7 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 16. 
Amanita rubescens Fr. 

Reddish Amanita. 
Fig. 1 A young plant. 
" 2 A plant with the cap partly expanded. 
" 3 A plant with the cap fully expanded and with reddisli stains on the 

gills indicating places where they have been bruised or wounded. 
' ' 4 Vertical section of a cap and the upper part of its stem. 
' 5 A plant from whose cap the warts have disappeared. 
' 6 A plant from wliose cap the warts have mostly disappeared and on 
the margin of whit-li are slight slriations. 
' 7 Vertical section through the center of a plant. 
8 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 17. 

Amanitopsis vaginata Roze. 

Sheathed Amanitopsis. 

Variety fdlva {Slueff.) 
Fig. 1 A young plant. 

' ' 2 and 3 Plants with the cap partly expanded, one having an umbo on 

the cap and the tawny tint to the wrapper. 

" 4 A plant with the cap fully expanded and darker colored in the 

center. 

Variety livida (Pers.) 

" 5 A young plant with two fragments of the wrapper adhering to the 

cap. 
" 6 A plant with the cap partly expanded. 
" 7 A plant with an umbonate cap fully expanded. 
' ' 8 Vertical section of a cap and the upper part of its stem. 
' ' 9 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 18. 
Lepiota procera Scop. 

Parasol Mushroom. Tall Lepiota. 
Fig. 1 A young plant. 
" 2 A mature plant. 

' 3 A smaller mature plant with unspotted stem. 
' ' 4 Vertical section of a cap and the upper part of its stem. 
' ' 5 Four spores, X 400. 



228 KKPORT OF THE STATE BOTAMIST 

PLATE 19. 
Lepiota naucinoides Peck. 

Smooth Lejnota. 
Fig. 1 A young plant. 
' ' 2 and 3 Plants with the cap partly expanded. 
" 4 A plant with the central part of the cap tinged with yellow. 
" 5 A plant with the cap fully expanded and centrally tinged with a 

smoky-brown hue. 
' ' 6 Vertical section of a cap and the upper part of its stem. 
' ' 7 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 20. 

Aruillaria mellea Vahl. 

Honey-colored Armillaria, 

Fig. 1 A young plant growing on decaying wood. 
" 2 A cluster of five plants, one of them quite young and having its gills 

concealed by the veil. 
" 3 A mature plant with the cap striated on the margin and centrally 

darker colored . 
" 4 A mature plant with the cap brown and striated on the margin. 
' ' 5 Vertical section of a cap and the upper part of its stem. 
' ' 6 Four spores, X 400. 

Variety glabra Gill. 
Fig. 7 A plant with tho cap glabrous and yellowish. 
' ' 8 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of tlie stem of a mature 
plant. 

PLA.TE 21. 

Tricboloma transmutaks Peck. 

Changing Tricholoma. 
Fig. 1 A young plant. 

" 2 A plant with the cap partly expanded, 

" 3 A cluster of two young plants and one mature plant, the latter show- 
ing the gills spotted with reddish-brown. 
' ' 4 Vertical section of a cap and the upper part of its stem. 
' ' 5 Four spores, X 400. 

Tricholoma imbricatcm Fr. 

Imbricated Tiichuloma. 
Fig. 6 A young plant. 
" 7 A plant with the cap partly expanded. 
' ' 8 A mature plant showing spots on the gills. 
' ' 9 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a young 

plant. 
' ' 10 Vertical section of the cap and upi)iT part of the stem of a mature 

plant. 
" 11 Four spores, X 400. 



KEPOBI OF THE STATE BOTANIST 229 

PLATE 25. 

Tricholoma. personatum Fr. 

Masked Tricholoma. 
Fig. 1 A young plant. 

" 3 A plant with the cap partly expanded. 

" 3 A plant with the cap fully expanded. 

' ' 4 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a young 

plant. 
' ' 5 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a mature 

plant. 
' ' 6 Four spores, X 400. 

Variety bulbosum Peck. 

Fig. 7 A plant with the cap partly expanded. 
" 8 A plant with the cap fully expanded. 

PLATE 28. 
Clitocybe mkdia Peck. 

Intermediate Clitocybe. 
Fig. 1 A young plant. 
" 3 A plant with the cap partly expanded. 
' 3 and 4 Mature plants. 

' ' 5 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of an imma- 
ture plant. 
' 6 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a mature 

plant. 
' ' 7 Four spores, X 400. 

Clitocybe nebularis Batsch. 

Clouded Clitocybe. 
Fig. 8 A young plant. 
' ' 9 An immature plant. 
" 10 A mature plant. 

' 11 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of an imma- 
ture plant. 
' 13 Vertical section of the cap and stem of a mature plant. 
' ' 13 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 24. 

Clitocybe infundibdlipormis Schceff. 

Funnel-form Clitocybe. 
Fig. 1 A young plant. 
' ' 2 and 3 Mature plants, one showing more fully the upper surface of 

the cap. 
" 4 A mature plant with a wavy margin to the cap. 
' ' 5 Vertical section through the center of a mature plant. 
' ' 6 Four spores, X 400. 



230 EEPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST 

Cratekellus cornucopioides Pers. 

Cornucopia Craterellus. 

Fig. 7 A cluster of three plants of different degrees of development. 

" 8 A single mature plant. 

' ' 9 Vertical section of a small plant. 

" 10 Four spores, X 400. 

Hydnum coralloides Scop. 

Coral-like Hydnum. 

Fig. 11 A plant growing from a piece of wood. 
" 12 A branch with its branchlets and spines. 
" 13 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 25. 

Clitocybe laccata Scop. 

Laccate Clitocybe. 

Figs. 1, 2 and 3 Plants showing the usual color when fresh and moist. 
" 4 and 5 Plants showing the paler color of the caps when dry. 
' ' 6 and 7 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stems of two 

plants of different form. 
" 8 Four spores, X 400. 

' ' 9 and 10 Two plants of a larger form, their caps yet fresh and moist. 
" 11 A plant from whose cap the moisture has evaporated. 
" 12 Vertical section of a cap and the upper part of its stem. 
' ' 13 Four spores, X 400. 

Variety striatula Peck. 

Figs. 14, 15 and 16 Three plants whose caps are yet moist and show the 
marginal striations. 
" 17 A plant wliose cap is dry and paler. 
" 18 Four spores, X 400. 

Variety palltdifolia Peck. 
Figs. 19 and 20 Plants whose caps are yet moist. 
" 21 A plant whose cap is dry and paler. 
' ' 22 Vertical section of a cap and the upper part of its stem. 

Variety ajiethystina Bolt. 
Figs. 23, 24 and 25 Three plants with their caps yet fresh and moist. 
" 26 A plant whose cap is dry and paler. 
' ' 27 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 26. 
Pleurotus ulmarics Bull. 

Elm PleiirotuH. 
Fig. 1 An immature plant. 
" 2 A mature plant showing the central coloration and spotting some- 
times seen on the cap. 



EEPOKT OF THE STATE BOTANIST £31 

Fig. 3 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a mature 
plant. 
' ' 4, Four spores, X 400. 

Pleurotus ostreatus Fr. 
Oyster Pleurohis. 
Fig. 5 A cluster of plants growing from decaying wood. 
" 6 A plant showing the upper surface of the cap. 
" 7 A plant showing the lower surface of the cap. 
' ' 8 Vertical section of a plant. 
' ' 9 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 27. 
Pleurotus sapidus Kalchb. 
Sapid Pleurotus. 
Fig. 1 A cluster of three plants growing from decaying wood, 

2 A clu.ster of four plants branching from a common base. 

3 A plant of reddish-brown color showing the upper surface of the cap. 

4 A plant showing the lower surface of the cap. 

5 A small pale plant with a lateral stem, the upper surface shown. 

6 Vertical section of a plant. 

7 Vertical section of a cluster of three plants. 

8 Four spores, X 400. 

9 Color of the spores aa seen in a mass on white paper. 

PLATE 28. 

Hyorophorus miniatus Fr. 

Vermilion Hygrophorus. 
Fig. 1 A young plant. 

" 2, 3 and 4 Various forms of mature plants. 

" 5 A cluster of four plants. 

' ' 6 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a small 

plant. 
' ' 7 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a larger 

plant with a hollow stem. 
' ' 8 Four spores, X 400. 

Variety lctescens Peck 
Fig. 9 A young plant. 

" 10 A mature plant, 

Hygrophorus pratensis Fr. 

Meadoio Hygrophorus, 
Fig. 11 A young plant. 

' ' 12, 13 and 14 Forms of mature plants. 

' ' 15 and 16 Vertical sections of different forms of mature plants. 

' ' 17 Four spores, X 400. 



232 BEPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST 

Paxillus involutus Fr, 

Involute Paxillus. 
Fig. 18 A young plant. 
' ' 19 An immature plant showing the involute margin of the cap. 
" 20 A mature plant showing spots on the stem and gills where they have 

been bruised. 
" 21 A plant with an eccentric stem. 
' ' 22 Vertical section through the center of a plant. 

' ' 23 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 29. 

Lactarius deliciosus Ft 

Delicious Lactarius. 
Fig. 1 A young plant. 
" 2 A plant with the cap partly expanded. 
" 3 A plant with the cap fully expanded und somewhat funnel-shaped, 

the gills wounded at 3a. 
' ' 4 An old plant faded and tinged with green. 

' ' 5 Part of a vertical section througli the center of the cap and upper 
part of the stem of a mature plant, showing the orange-colored 
juice oozing from a wound in the gill at 5a, 

' ' 6 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 30. 

Lactarids volemus Fr. 

Orange Lactarrus. 
Fig. 1 A young plant. 
" 2 A plant having a small umbo in the center ot the cap. 
" 3 A plant with :i broadly convex cap. 
" 4 A plant with the cap somewhat funnel-sliaped. 
" 5 A large plant with the cap broadly funnel-shaped, and the gills 

wounded, discolored and dripping the white milk at .^». 
" 6 A plant with the margin of the cap corrugated or wrinkled on its 

surface. 
' ' 7 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a small 

plant, a drop of the white juice issuing from a wound in the gill 

at 7a. 

" 8 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 31. 

RUSSULA. VIRESrENS Fr. 

Oreetiish RH.s.iula. 
Fig. 1 A yoimg plant. 

2 A plant with the cap partly expanded. 

8 and 4 Two plants with the caps sHghtly striate on the margin, one 
mature and the cap fully expanded. 

5 A mature plant with the cap fully expanded, split in two places on 
the margin and yellowish-green in the center. 

6 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a [>lant 
whoj(> cap is convex. 

7 Vertical aec^tion of the cap and upper part of the stem of a plant 
whose cap is centrally depressed. 

8 Four spores, X 400. 



BBPOKT OF THE STATE BOTANIST 233 

PLATE 32. 
Canthaeellus cibarius Fr. 
Chantarelle. 
igs. 1,2, 3, 4 and 5 Plants of various sizes and shapes. 

6 A plant with the margin of the cap wavy. 

7 A stout plant with the cap somewhat funnel-shaped. 

8 Vertical section through the center of a plant. 

9 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 33. 

Boletus subluteus Peck. 
Small yellowish Boletus. 
Fig. 1 A young plant with the tubes or hymenium yet concealed by the veil. 
' ' 2 An immature plant showing the yellow color of the tubes. 
' ' 3 and 4 Mature plants showing the ochraceous color of the tubes. 
' ' 5 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a mature 
plant. 

' ' 6 Four spores, X 400. 

Boletus luteus L. 

Ydlmri.ih -brown Boletus. 

Fig. 7 A young plant with the tubes yet concealed by the veil. 

" 8 A plant whose veil has just separated from the margin of the cap. 

' ' 9 and 10 Mature plants. 

" 11 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a mature 

plant. 

' ' 13 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 84. 

Boletus orandlatus L. 

Gramilated Boletus. 
Fig. 1 A young plant. 
• ' 2 and 3 Mature plants differing in the shape and color of the caps, 
' ' 4 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a mature 

plant. 
' ' 5 Four spores, X 400. 

Boletus versipellis Fr. 

Orange-cap Boletus. 
Fig. 6 A young plant. 
" 7 A plant with the dots on the stem of the same color as the cap. 
" 8 A plant with the dots on the stem of different colors. 
' ' 9 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a mature 
plant. 

' ' 10 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 35. 

Boletus scaber Fr. 
Rough-stem med Boletus. 
Figs. 1 and 3 "Soung plants with differently colored caps. 
" 3 A plant with a white cap. 
" 4 A mature plant having a reddish cap. 
30 



234 REPORT OF THE STATE BOTANIST 

Fig. 5 An immature plant having an ash-colored cap. 
" 6 A mature plant with a blackish-brown cap. 
" 7 A plant with a brown cap. 

' ' 8 Vertical section ot the cap and upper part of the stem of a plant. 
' ' 9 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 36. 
Boletus castaneus BhH. 
Chcstmit Boletus. 
Fig. 1 A young plant showing the whitish tubes. 
' ' 2 and 3 Mature plants. 

" 4 A mature plant with the margin of the cap slightly curved upwards. 
' ' 5 Vertical section through the center of a young plant. 
' ' 6 Vertical section through the center of a mature plant. 
' ' 7 Four spores, X 400. 

Boletus edulis Bull. 
Edible Boletus. 
Fig. 8 A young plant showing the white tubes. 
" 9 A mature plant of small size. 
" 10 A mature plant of medium size. 
" 11 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem oi a mature 

plant. 
' ' 12 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 37. 
Polypobus sulphureos Fr. 
Sulj^hury Polyporus. 
Fig. 1 A cluster of four plants growing from decaying wood. 
" 2 A single plant showing the upper surface of the cap and the yellow 

freshly grown margin. 
' ' 3 Vertical section of a plant. 
' ' 4 Four spores, X 400 . 

FiSTULINA HEPATICA i'V. 

Liver FistuUna. 

Fig. 5 A plant showing the upper surface of the cap. 
" 6 A plant showing the lower surface of the cap. 
' ' 7 Lateral view of a plant growing from decayed wood. 
' ' 8 Vertical section of a plant showing reddish streaks in the flesh. 
' ' 9 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 38. 

IIydnum repanpum Tj. 

Spreading Ilydnum. 

Figs. 1 and 3 Plants whose caps are of a pal« color. 
" 2 and 4 Plants whose caps are of a reddish color. 
" D Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the etem of a plant. 
" 6 Foursporee, X 400. 



EEPOBT OF THE STATE B0TAHI8T 235 

Variety rufescens (Pers.) 

Fig. 7 A plant whose cap is somewhat wavy on the margin. 

" 8 A plant whose cap is more regular. 

" 9 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a plant. 

" 10 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 39. 

Clavaria PLAVA Schd'ff. 

Pale-yellow Clavaria. 
Fig. 1 A young plant. 
" 2 A full-grown plant. 

" 3 One of the principal branches with its branchlets. 
" 4 Four spores, X 400, 

Clavaria botrytes Pers. 

Red-tipped Clavaria. 
Fig. 5 A young plant. 
" 6 A full-grown plant. 
" 7 Four spores, X 400. 

Clavaria cristata Pers 

Crested Clavaria. 

Figs. 8 and 9 Plants with few branches. 

" 10 A plant witli many brandies and a dingy whitish color. 

" 11 A mature plant in wliich the tips of the branches have assumed a 

brown color. 
" 12 Four spores, X 400. 

PLATE 40. 

: Amanita phalloidks FY. 

Poison Amanita. 

Fig. 1 A young plant with the cap slightly exjianded, and of a grayish-brown 
color. 

" 3 A mature plant with the grayish-brown cap fully expanded and black- 
ish-brown in the center. 

" 3 A very young plant just bursting from its wrapper, two fragments of 
which still adhere to the cap. 

" 4 A plant with its blackish-brown cap partly expanded. 

" 5 A mature plant with its blackish-brown cap fully expanded. 

" 6 Vertical section through the center of an immature plant. 

" 7 Vertical section of the cap and upper part of the stem of a mature 
plant. 

" 8 Four spores, x 400. 

PLATE 41. 

Amanita phalloidks Fr. 

Poison Amanita. 

Fig. 1 A plant with its whitish cap partly expanded. 

" 3 A plant with its whitish cap fully expanded. 

" 3 Vertical section through the center of a mature plant. 



236 BEPOKT OF THE STATE BOTANIST 

Amanita versa Fr. 

Vernal Amanita. 

Fig. 4 A younw plant just emerging from its wrapper. 

" 5 An immature plant with the cap slightly expanded. 

" 6 A mature plant with the cap fully expanded. 

" 7 Four spores, X •iOO. 

PLATE 42. 

Amanita huscaria L. 

Fly Amanita. 

Fig. 1 A young plant just breaking from its wrapper. 
" 2 A plant with its red cap partly expanded. 
" 3 A mature plant with its cap fully expanded and faded to yellow on 

the striated margin. 
" 4 Vertical section of a part of the cap and upper part of the stem of 

a mature i)lant. 
" 5 Four spores, X 400. 

Variety Formosa FY. 
Fig. 6 A plant with its yellow cap partly expanded. 

PLATE 43. 

Boletus felleus Bull. 

Bitter Boletus. 

Fig. 1 A young plant. 
"2 A young i>lant showing the color of the young tubes. 
" 3 and 4 Mature plants with stems of different shapes. 
" 5 A mature plant with the stem reticulated to the base. 
' ' 6 Vertical section ot the cap and upper part of the stem of a mature 

plant. 
" 7 Four spores, X 400. 



CORRECTIONS OF PLATES.* 



PLATE 1. 

Fig. 3. The exposed inner substance shown in the upper part of the figure is 
too black; it should be dingy-olivaceous. 

PLATE 6. 

Figs. 7, 10. The spores should be brown, not pink. 

PLATE 8. 

Fig. 5. The gills should be blackish-brown, as in figure 3. 
Fig. 6. The spores should be brown, not pink. 

PLATE 13. 

Figs. 3, 3. The gills should have no pink tint. 

Figs. 7 to 13. There should be no stripes on the caps. 

PLATE 14. 

Fig. 31. The spores should be white. 

PLATE 17. 
Fig. 9. The spores should be white. 

PLATE 19. 
Fig. 7. The spores should be white. 

PLATE 24. 

Figs. 1, 3, 3, 4. The upper surface of the cap is too pale. 

Under the name Clitocvbe isfundibuliformjs insert Funnel- 

FOUM CUTOCYBE. - 

PLATE 28. 

Figs. 8, 17. The spores should be white, not pink. 

PLATE 29. 
Fig. 4. The upper surface of the cap shoulil have a dull greenish tint. 

PLATE 30. 
Fig. 8. The spores should be white. 



* Tbc failure of the artist to follow th<i '^opy aud corrected proof closely makes necessary several 
corrections. 



238 EEPOBT OF THE STATE BOTANIST. 

PLATE 34. 
Fig. 10. The spwres should be brown, not pink. 

PLATE 35. 

Fig. 2. The stem should be dotted as in the other figures. 
Figs. 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9. Tlie tubes and spores should have no pink hues. 
For the name soaber read scaber. 

PLATE 36. 

Fig. 4. The lower surface of the cap should be yellowish. 
Fig. 7. The spores should be yellowish, not pink. 



I]^DEX. 



(Synonyms are in italics.) 



PAOE. 

AgarlctnesB IHI 

Agaricua 133 

arvensis 140 

campest«r 134 

placomyces H'i 

Bodmani 137 

subrufescena 13^S 

Amanita 155 

caesarea 155 

muscaria 212 

phalloides 215 

rubeacena 157 

Terna 215 

Amanitopels 159 

fulva 100 

fungites 160 

lividn. 160 

tipadicea 160 

vaglnata 159 

Armlllaria mellea 164 

Aster cordlfollua 17 

Itovia 17 

longifoUus 17 

paolculatus 17 

ptarmicoldea 17 

Bidena connata 18 

Boletus 194 

castaneua 201 

edulla aoo 

f elleua 217 

granulatUB 196 

luteua 195 

scaber 199 

Bubluteus 196 

verfipellis 198 

Cantharellua cibarius 190 

Carex 21 

fBStivalia 58 

alata , 45 

alboluteacena 43 

albursina 63 

alopecoidea 31 

aperta 52 

aquatllla 52 

arctata 82 

arlatata 89 

AsaGrayi 96 

aurea 64 

BackU 49 



Carei — (Continued) . page. 

Ballejl 93 

Barrattii 66 

blanda 68 

bromoIdM 47 

bullata ;03 

Bujcbiumii 67 

canesceDB S6 

capillar :b 7S 

Careyana 71 

castaaea 83 

cepbaloidea 32 

cephalophora 82 

chord orblza , S8 

Colllnali 97 

communis *i7 

comoea 00 

conoidea 63 

Crawel 61 

crinita t4 

crlstata 41 

Davlfil 60 

debilla 82 

decnmpoaita 29 

deflexa 79 

Dew eyana 86 

digital ia 70 

disticha 47 

durt/ulia 49 

eburnea 73 

Emmonali 77 

exilia 38 

extenaa 100 

fllitormis 85 

flava 98 

flejcitis 84 

f cBoea 43 

f olliculata 97 

f ormosa 60 

f usca 67 

glabra 83 

glaucodea 64 

gracillima 59 

granularls 69 

Gray 11 95 

grisea 65 

gynandra 54 

gya<. crates 49 

hirta 88 

Hitchcockiana 66 



240 



INDKI. 



Carez — ^Continued). page. 

Houghtonii 87 

bystricina 91 

Interior 39 

intumescens 96 

Jamesii 49 

Kfiitskt^rnii 82 

lacuktrjs 88 

laDUKinosa 8} 

lax'CLilmiB 70 

laxiflora CT 

lentjcutarls tl 

limosa 56 

llttoralia 11, 55 

llvida 61 

longirostris 101 

luputiformid 34 

lupuliDa 94 

lurida 92 

Mageilanica 55 

Micbauxiana 37 

Michauxii 97 

miliacea 62 

mirabi is 46 

moDlIe 103 

monosperma SO 

NovEB-ADgl s 78 

CElerl 99 

oligocarpa 65 

oligoBperma 98 

pallescena 63 

pauciflwa 48 

Peckli 79 

pedicfUata 77 

peduaculata 72 

Fennsylvanica 75 

plantaginea 72 

platypb; lla 71 

polymorpha 86 

polytricholdea 48 

prasina .... - 81 

PaeudO'Cyperus 90 

pubescena 80 

retrocurva 70 

retrc fleza 34 

retroraa 101 

RIchardBDnll 80 

riglda 50 

rlparia 88 

rosea 34 

roBtrata 07 

Stiltuensis 6 ' 

Sartwellii 47 

Bcabrata 84 

Schweinltzll ini 

Bcirpoidea 74 

scoparia 42 

■eoraa 40 

aiccata 47 

Bllic««i 44 

Bparganioldea 31 

Bquarrosa 100 



Carex — CContinued) . paok. 

Bterilia 38 

Steudelil 49 

atipata 30 

straminea 44 

striata 87 

Btricta 52 

atyloflexa 67 

suhulata 9^ 

SulUvantii 59 

pycbDocepbala 46 

teoella 27 

ienera 45 

U>DtaculBta 9i 

tenuiflora 36 

teretiuscula 23 

tetanica 63 

torta 53 

tribuloidea 41 

trlcepg S7 

trlcbocarpa 89 

triBperma 35 

Tuckermini 103 

umbelldta 75 

utrioulata 103 

vagiaata 62 

varia 77 

Tpstlta 86 

viresceDB 58 

vulpinoidea 29 

Willdenovii 49 

Cladosporium carpuphilum 15 

Clavaria 209 

botrytes 211 

criatata 211 

flavn 210 

Clavarleae 209 

Clltocybe 17J 

Inf UDdlbulifc rniia 174 

nudia 173 

nebularia 172 

ClltopUus ' 152 

orcella 158 

prULUluj 152 

Ooniotbecium Rubl 15 

CoprinuB 143 

atramentariua 144 

comatus 143 

micaceua 145 

Cortlnarius 147 

cinnamomeus 149 

colllnltua 1 49 

rImosuB 12 

violaceua 148 

Craterellua 190 

comucopioldt^a 190 

Cucurbltarla Comptonliu 17 

Cylindrosporlum Padi 15 

Dendrypbium nodulosum 15 



INDEX. 



241 



Diaporthe robugta , • 6 

DIecomycetesa 132 

Eupatorium perfollatum ]7 

Fistulioa hepatica 204 

GasteromycetecB 119 

Oeo(/lo98itm 131 

irregulare 131 

vitelliivim 13J 

Oomphidius nigricans 12 

Qyromitra esculenta las 

Hebelcma Colvlnl 19 

Helvella crispa ijg 

Hesperls matronalis 17 

Hydnees 20."^ 

Hydnum joS 

coralloides 207 

repandum gOfi 

ru/escens 206 

■cabrlpes 13 

HygTophorus lei 

miniatus igi 

prat«n8l8 isi 

Hymenomyceteee 131 

inocyba eubtomentosa u 

Lactarlus igj 

dellclosus 185 

volemus 180 

Leplota i , 160 

naudnoides 193 

procera igi 

Leucosporre 153 

Lycoperdon 119 

cyaihlfonne ;2i 

KiKanteum 121 

Lycopcidluo) clavatuoi 19 

Marasmlus oreades 192 

Melanosporse 133 

MItrula vltelllna 130 

Morchella 133 

angusticeps 125 

bispora 1 jj 

oonloa j2^ 



Morchella -- (Continued). Vkan. 

dellclosa 125 

esculenta , 184 

liybrida ISC 

semiUbera 126 

Muhlenbergla sobollf era 18 

Ochrosporee 147 

Ovularla deciplena 15 

Panlcum caplUare 19 

Pazlllus Invdutus 160 

Pleurotus 177 

ostreatus ISO 

sapldns 179 

ulmartus 177 

Polygon\im Douglassll 18 

nodosum 19 

Polyporeee 194 

Polyporus sulphureuB 803 

Porla attenuata go 

Potamogeton heteropbyllus It 

Radulum molare 18 

RhodosporgB 151 

Rosa blanda 17 

Russula vlreacens igfl 

Seneclo Robblnsil 18 

Septoria centaurelcola 14 

Cucurbltacearum 20 

DentarlB? so 

Dlvarloatea 14 

SphEcrella rublna u 

Sphteropsis ulmlcola ]4 

Stacbys palustris 18 

Thelephorcaj tag 

Thymus Serpyllum 18 

Tolyposporlum bullatum 14 

Trlcholoma les 

imbricatum itg 

personatam 170 

terreum 19 

transmutana 1S3 

Vermlcularla Hepaticee 18 

Scboenoprasi 14 

Volverla Peckll n 



12 



Plate A 




-i 




L 
















n 

lOi 



IS 



«8^ 



11 







^ ( — 





K' 



-mc 











J 



r, H Peck.Df.l 



C FauSEL LlT^ 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 1 



% 



O 



O 4 o 





I 



m 




J 



^ 



C H Peck. Del 



C Fausel.Lith 



LYCOPERDOiM CICANTEUM batsch 

GIANT PUFF-BALL. (Fioe. I & 2 one-haif natural size ) 



EDIBLE FUNGL 



Plate 2 




r. H Peck. Del 



^ rW^TlR 



C FAUSE.U LlT" 



LYCOPERDON CYATHIFORME Bosc 

CUP SHAPED PUFF-BALL 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 3 




C.H PrcK.D 



r Fau 



Fios. 1 TO 3 MORCHELLA ESCULENTA pers. 

COMMON MOREL 

Fiss. 8T0 10 MORCHELLA BISPORA Sor. 

TWO-SPORCD MOREL 



Fi6s. 4 TO 7 MORCHELLA DELICIOSA Fh. 

DELICIOUS MOREL 

Fios. 11 TO 13 MORCHELLA SEMILIBERA fm. 

HALF-FREE MOREL 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 4 




■^KM^i 







y| 



z*'. 



v^; 






1 



/ 



■ ■'■ / 



o 



^v^y 




i 






\i 

ii 



C H Peck, Del 



u 







^^ 




C Fausel.Lith 



Figs. 1 to 4 MORCHELLA CONICA Pers. 
CONICAL MOREL 



Fiaa. Sto9 MORCHELLA ANCUSTICEPS pcck. 
NARROW-CAP MOREL 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 5 





r- 




cS 




C H Peck. Del 




Fioe. 1 TO 3 GYROMITRA ESCULENTA Fr. 
ESCULENT GYROMITRA. EDIBLE HELVELLA. 



Figs. 4 TO 7 H E L VELLA CRISPA FR. 
WHITE HELVELLA 



Fio8. 8T0 14NIITRULA VITELLINA saccVAR. IRREGULARIS peck 
IRREGULAR MITBULA 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 6 




C H Peck Del 



C Fausel LiTM 



ACARICUS CAMPESTER l. 

COMMON MUSHROOM. 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 7 




C H.PrcK.DtL 



C.Fausel.Lith., 



"Ji 



ACARICUS SUBRUFESCENS peck 
SLIGHTLY REDDISH MUSHROOM. 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 8 




C H Peck, Del 



C Fausel. Lith 



ACARICUS ARVENSIS Schaeff 
HORSE MUSHROOM 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 9 




i 




5 





'« 



<s^'. ''.■t.*..v; f/'l-'-^:' 




CH Tf • 



FI08. 1 TO 6 ACARICUS RODMAN! PtcR 
RODMAN'S MUSHROOM 



F.os. 7 TO 12 ACARICUS PLACOMYCES pick 

FLAT-CAP MUSHROOM 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 10 



^' #f n I 




C H Peck.De 



C F* 



COPRINUS COMATUS Fr. 

SHAGGY COPRINUS 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 1 1 




Figs. I TO e COPRINUS MICACEUS fr. 
GLISTENING COPRINUS 



FiQs. 7 TO 11 COPRINUS ATRAMENTARIUS fr. 
INKY COPRINUS 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 12 




C H Peck, Del 



C, Fausel.Lith 



CORTINARIUS VIOLACEUS fr. 

VIOLET CORTINARIUS 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 13 




C H Peck, Del 



C F*USEL.LlTK 



F.O.. 1 70 6 CORTINARIUS COLLINITUS Fr. 
SMEARED CORTINARIUS 



FiG6. 7 TO 14 CORTINARIUS CINNAMOMEUS fr. 

CINNAMON CORTINARIUS 



FiQs. 15 TO 20 CORTINARIUS CINNAMOMEUS Fr. 
v*R. SEMISANCUINEUS fr. 

HALF RED CORTINARIUS 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 14 




F,<i8. 1 10 6 CLITOPILUS PRUNULUS scop 
PLUM CLITOPILUS 



Fios. 7TOI1 CLITOPILUS ORCELLA bull 
SWEET BREAD MUSHROOM 



FiM. 12 TO 21 MARASMIUS OREADES fr 
FAIRY-RING MUSHROOM 



EDIBLE FUNG!. 



^J^5^^^^:^XV\TTITr77777/ 



Plate 15 




C H Peck, Del 



C Fausel Lith 



AMANITA CAESAREA Scop 
ORANGE AMANITA. 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 16 




C H Peck. Del 

wrnrrivi i- 



C FaUSEl. Ll'- 



AMANITA RUBESCENS Fr. 
REDDISH AMANITA. 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 17 




C H Peck, Del 



C Fausel L. 



AMANITOPSIS VAGINATA Roze. 
SHEATHED AMANITOPSIS 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 18 




I 



C H Peck. Del 



C. Fausel Lith 



LEPIOTA PROCERA SCOP. 

PARASOL MUSHROOM. TALL LEPIOTA 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 19 




C,H Peck, Del 



C Fausel Lith 



LEPIOTA NAUCINOIDES Peck 
SMOOTH LEPIOTA. 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 20 




C H Peck.Dcl 



C Fausel.Liti- 



ARMILLARIA MELLEA vahl 

HONEY-COLORED ARMILLARIA 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 21 





C Fausel, Lith 



Figs. I TO 5 TRICHOLOMA TRANSMUTANS pick 
CHANGING TRICHOLOMA 



Figs 6 TO 11 TR ICHOLOM A I M BRICATUM fr. 

IMBRICATED TRICHOLOMA 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 22 




C Fausel. Lith 



C H Peck, Del 



TRICHOLOMA PERSONATUM fr 
MASKED TRICHOLOMA 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 23 




F108. iTo7 CLITOCYBE MEDIA peck 

INTERMEDIATE CLITOCYBE. 



F.os. 8 TO 13 CLITOCYBE NEBULARIS batsch 

CLOUDED CLITOCYBE. 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 24 







^%.r f^^^- 
















^^^^ 



^ 

»^^ 






:^55s^ 






r:g*^ 




C H Peck, Del 



•las. 1 TO 6 CLITOCYBE INFUNDIBULIFORMIS Schaeff 

FUNNEL-FORM CLITOCYBE 



Fios. 7 TO 10 CRATERELLUS CORNUCOPIOIDES peck 

CORNUCOPIA cnATERELLUS 



FiQs. 11 TO 13 HYDNUM CORALLOIDES scop 

CORAL-LIKE HYDNUM 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 25 




^■^^^SSSS^Z^ 



#^ 



^z^r^cis^ 




C H Peck, Del 



C Fausel.Lith 



CLITOCYBE LACCATA Scop 
LACCATE CLITOCYBE 



ts»!f?«? 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 26 





C FauSll LiTF 



FiQs. I TO 4 PLEUROTUS ULMARIUS bull 

ELM PLEUROTUS. 



F1Q6. 5 TO 9 PLEUROTUS OSTREATUS fr 

OYSTER PLEUROTUS, OYSTER MUSHROOM. 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 27 





5 





,.-«««i« wn« »i > ' - ' '.' K«omi». 




t II Pt,-i.- Ilr 



PLEUROTUS SAPIDUS k*lchb 

SAPID PLEUROTUS. 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 28 




C,H PtCr.DtL 



C, Fausel.Lith 



Fios. 1 TO 10 HYCROPHORUS MIMATUS Fh. 
VERMILION HYGROPHORUS 

F.Q8. 18 TO 23 PAXILLUS INVOLUTUS F 
INVOLUTE PAXILLUS 



Fio8. 11 TO 17 HYGROPHORUS PRATENSIS fr. 

MEADOW HYGROPHORUS 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 29 




C H PecK.DEL 



C Fausel, LiTf 



LACTARIUS DELICIOSUS fr 

DELICIOUS LACTARIUS. 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 30 






C H Peck, Del 



C Fausel Lith 



LACTARIUS VOLEMUS fr. 

ORANGE LACTARIUS. ORANGE SROWN LACTARIUS 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



.-.t 



^ £»—<>--0-<?<S>X.rt-T'<^, 



•?2r 




s **-*• \> . 












s. - 



.^^ 





e 



— **i« 



-A 





C H Peck, Del 



C Fausel, LiTH 



RUSSULA VIRESCENS Fr. 
GREENISH RUSSULA 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 32 




C,H Peck, Del 



C Fausel.Lith 



CANTHARELLUS CIBARIUS fh. 

CHANTARELLE 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 33 




C H Peck, Del 



C.Faueel.Lith 



Figs. 1 TO 6 BOLETUS SU BLUTEUS Peck 
SMALL YELLOWISH BOLETUS 



Figs. 7 to 12 BOLETUS LUTEUS L. 
YELLOW-BROWN BOLETUS 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 34 




Figs. 1 to 3 BOLETUS CRANULATUS L. 
GRANULATED BOLETUS 



Fios. 6 TO 10 BOLETUS VERSIPELLIS Fr. 
ORANGE-CAP BOLETUS. 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 35 






C H, Peck. Del 



C Fausel Lith 



BOLETUS SCABER fr. 

ROUGH-STEMMED BOLETUS 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 36 














l^'^^^^^^M^ 




-^.-iiiiiUi^^' 



7 12 



eck.Del 



C Fausl 



Figs. 1 TO 7 BOLETUS CASTAN EUS Bull 
CHESTNUT BOLETUS 



Figs. 6 TO 12 BOL ETUS E DU LIS Bull 
EDIBLE BOLETUS 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 37 



''iElipiTfTr. 




""^^^^^m^mmm^ 







^^''^^^^mmm 




o 






C H Peck. Del 



C Fausel Lith 



FiQs. lTo4 POLYPORUS SULPHUREUS fb. 

SULPHURY POLYPORUS 



Figs. 5 to 9 FISTULINA HEPATICA Fr. 
LIVER FISTULINA 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 38 




HYDNUM REPANDUM l 
SPREADING HYDNUM. 



EDIBLE FUNGI. 



Plate 39 




C FsuSEL.LlTM 



F1G9. 1 TO 4 CLAVARIA FLAVA schaeff. 
PALE-YELLOW CLAVARIA 



Figs, b to 7 CLAVARIA BOTRYTES Pebs. 
RED-TIPPED CLAVARIA 



FI08 8 TO 12 CLAVARIA CRISTATA pers. 

CRESTED CLAVARIA 



POISONOUS FUNGI. 



Plate 40 




I 



C H Psm- OfL 




A 




r 



.:a 



fV 



C Pause L Li^ 



AMANITA PHALLOIDES Ff> 

POISON AMANITA 



POISONOUS FUNGI. 



Plate 41 




F.Gs. I TO 4 AMANITA PHALLOIDES Fr. 

(white form> 

poison amanita 



FioB. 5 TO 7 AMANITA VERNA Bull 
VERNAL AMANITA 



POISONOUS FUNGI. 



Plate 42 




AMANITA MUSCARIA L. 

FLY AMANITA 



UNWHOLESOME FUNGI. 



Plate 43 












BOLETUS FELLEUS bull 
BITTER BOLETUS 



7/ f 



^