Page:Aspects of nature in different lands and different climates; with scientific elucidations (IA b29329668 0002).pdf/37

 in that of the ramification), by Schinus Molle; Myrtaceæ[31], (Metrosideros, Eucalyptus, Escallonia myrtilloides); Melastomaceæ[32], and the Laurel form[33].

It would be an enterprise worthy of a great artist to study the aspect and character of all these vegetable groups, not merely in hot-houses or in the descriptions of botanists, but in their native grandeur in the tropical zone. How interesting and instructive to the landscape painter[34] would be a work which should present to the eye, first separately and then in combination and contrast, the leading forms which have been here enumerated! How picturesque is the aspect of tree-ferns spreading their delicate fronds above the laurel-oaks of Mexico; or groups of plantains over-*shadowed by arborescent grasses (Guaduas and Bamboos)! It is the artist's privilege, having studied these groups, to analyse them: and thus in his hands the grand and beautiful form of nature which he would pourtray resolves itself, (if I may venture on the expression) like the written works of men, into a few simple elements.

It is under the burning rays of a tropical sun that vegetation displays its most majestic forms. In the cold north the bark of trees is covered with lichens and mosses, whilst between the tropics the Cymbidium and fragrant Vanilla enliven the trunks of the Anacardias, and of the gigantic fig trees. The fresh verdure of the Pothos leaves, and of the Dracontias, contrasts with the many-coloured flowers of the Orchideæ. Climbing Bauhinias, Passifloras, and yellow flowering Banisterias, twine round the trunks of the forest trees. Delicate blossoms spring from the roots of the Theobroma, and from