Order Lxxv
SAXIFRAGEE.
The whole of these plants constitute the glory and delight of the cultivator of alpine plants. This is to be attributed to the neatness and perpetual verdure of their leaves, and the exquisite simplicity and elegance of their flowers, rather than to any striking attractions, of which they are wholly destitute: their blossoms being generally white or pale pink, occasionally becoming brownish-purple. All the genuine species are humble herbaceous plants, affecting mountainous situations, but occasionally found in marshes by the sides of the sides of springs, and even upon dry walls. All are natives of cold regions, or of the most temperate mountainous situations of hot ones. They are slightly astringent; some of them, as Heuchera americana, eminently so .
Infusions of the leaves have been reckoned lithontriptic, and the powdered root of the last-named plant is used with success in cancerous disorders. Hydrangea, which is shrubby, is not a legitimate inhabitant of the order. 1041 Saxífraga W. 1042 Tiarélla W. 1043 Mitélla W. 606 Heuchéra W. 930 Adóxa W. 361 Gálax W.
ORDER LXXVI.
PHILADELPHEÆ. 1040 Chrysosplénium W. 1039 Hydrángea W.
This consists at present of a single genus, which was formerly referred to Myrtaceæ, but which has lately been separated with much acuteness by Mr. Don. The species are hardy ornamental shrubs, natives of North America, with white flowers; in some cases fragrant. Nothing is known of their properties. 1114 Philadelphus W.