-2- Water Lilies

The February newsletter contained an article, written by the late Dr. J.A. Clark, dealing with the establishment of water lilies at the Experimental Farm. This was of particular interest to me because I was employed at the Experimental Farm, now called the Research Station, from 1929 to 1970.

The lily pond was always a favorite attraction for summer visitors. It is doubtful whether all six species have survived. On several occasions the roots became so thick and matted that it was necessary to remove large quantities so that more and better blooms would be produced. No attempt could be made to thin by varieties and it seems likely that the present population is a result of "survival of the fittest."

For many years requests for roots were responded to and there should be many lily ponds about the province. One in particular is, or was, located at East Baltic. Several years ago this pond rivalled the one at the Farm for beauty and numbers. I have not seen it for some time and it is possible that the area has been drained to increase cultivated acreage.

It would be interesting to know if other plantings in the province proved successful. If any readers know of such ponds why not drop a line to the Natural History Society?

R.B. MacLaren 5 Rosemount Drive Charlottetown, P.E.I.

Flora Quiz

Each statement is either true or false. For answers refer to page 3.

l. Spotted touch-me-not (Impatiens capensis) is named for its juices which many people find irritating to the skin.

he 0 teris) are found in the same areas as beech trees

gran l 0 1a).

3. The mayflower (Epigaea re ens) was reportedly mmmfl such by the Pilgrims who saw the p ant after they landed at Plymouth Rock on the ship, Mayflower.

2. Beech-drops (Epifagus virginiana) and beechferns (Dr ooteris (Fagus

a. Ostrich fern (Pteretis pensylvanica) fiddleheads are suspected of containing a cancer‘causing chemical, much to the dismay of connoisseurs.

5. Sweet flag (Acorns calamus)is the floral emblem of Quebec.

6. Eel-grass (Zostera marina, var. stenophylla) is the dominant grass species formed on Prince Edward Island sand dunes.

7. Forget-me-not (Myosotis scorpioides) is a common plant on the Island that was introduced from Europe and is now prominent in wet areas which it graces with its small blue flowers.

8. Ragwort (Senecio jacobaea) is reported to be a major irritant to those who suffer from hay fever.

9. If sheep-sorrel (Rumex acetosella) is growing on farmland, it is an indicator that the land 18 acidic and in need of a treatment with lime.

lO. Lesser duckweed (Lemna minor), the smallest flowering plant in . . —-—!- —-———- tne world, is common in Island ponds.

Diane Griffin Edmonton, Alberta