1910 Field Trips
A RESUME OF THE FIELD MEETINGS OF 1910. By THE HONORARY SECRETARY.
Somehow, I often fancy that naturalists—and perhaps botanists more especially—derive an added interest and happiness from life, to which an outside observer is quite immune and unable to appreciate; and appreciate; as ever been so. Even in the writings of ancient scribes and philosophers one may find occasional more or less vague references to this fact, which is perhaps more aptly and subtly expressed through the medium of the delicate instinct of the poet. The true nature lover is to some extent independent of weather and time, and so at this season one is wont to indulge in happy recollections of experiences, results, and rambles of the past, mingled with pleasant anticipations of experiment, investigation, and excursions in the future.
Rossett and Marford 7 May 1910
The first field meeting of the year was held at Rossett and Marford, on May 7th, under the leadership of Dr. J. W. Ellis. The district in question has long been a favourite resort with naturalists and is one of the few localities within easy reach of Liverpool which possesses an early flora. Although situated just over the Cheshire border, for most of the district—with the exception of an anomalous isolated fragment of Flint—is a portion of Denbighshire, there are few indications that this is a part of Wales. Here the English accent can be distinctly recognised, and the place wears quite an English aspect. The Cambrian element is " not entirely lacking, however, as the name itself bears testimony. Anyone accustomed to the study of English place-names might be at a loss to account for the etymology of Rossett. The name is said to be derived from the Welsh rhos, a moor, and is a corrupt form of the plural rhosydd, literally, the moors. It is interesting to note that the district is frequently referred to locally as ‘‘the Rossett,”’ and that these two significant place-names are practically all that now linger to testify to the former character of the country hereabouts.
Leaving Rossett Station, the field path towards ‘‘ The Roft’’ was followed, with the picturesque Alyn for company. The usual spring flora was well represented, and in places the pungent-leaved garlic afforded a welcome show of bloom. To many of us our vernal flowers have a special charm of their own. And as the years roll on, one spring succeeding another with seeming ever-increasing rapidity, and with the passing of each winter, one experiences an increasing pleasure at every advent of these familiar flower faces.
The leaves of the Sweet Violet were seen here and there, but the flowers were already over. We also observed the narrower and more triangular foliage of its relative Hairy Violet Viola hirta, and both these species, along with various other plants encountered in the neighbourhood, reminded one of certain geological differences between this area and the adjoining English county. Hairy Violet Viola hirta is unknown in Cheshire, while the sweet violet is distinctly uncommon, and a plant of very dubious nativity in that county.
The giant foliage of the Butterbur clothed the banks of the Alyn in many places, but the flowers had almost disappeared, and only an occasional tall fruiting stem remained. There is a little point in connection with the distribution of this species which calls for notice and investigation. The plant is usually sub-diecious, i.e., the capitula of a given individual consist almost exclusively of either staminate or pistillate florets. Although one may generally detect a few staminate florets in a pistillate inflorescence, and vice versa, the plant is practically diecious. In several parts of Flint and Denbigh, where the Butterbur abounds, the pistillate plant appears to be excessively rare, the predominant individuals being staminate.
This seems to apply especially to the coast district. Dr. Russell, of Colwyn Bay, informs me that the Butterbur rarely appears to produce perfect seed in that area, and only staminate plants have been seen. It was only after a long continued search that the pistillate plant was eventually found in an inland station, some seven miles from Colwyn Bay. I have also met with a similar condition at Mostyn on the Flintshire coast. The pistillate plant is of a distinctive habit, and is taller and finer in every way than the staminate plant.
Many of the characteristic plants of the district have already been noted on the occasion of a previous excursion which we held here two years ago, and so it is hardly necessary to say much concerning these. The present meeting was held some six weeks earlier than that of 1908, and so the flora presented rather a different aspect on this occasion. Several noteworthy plants were seen which we had not found previously. An immature example of the peculiar Adder’s-tongue Ophioglossum vulgatum was discovered by Miss E. M. Porter in a meadow between ‘‘ The Roft ’’ and the Alyn. In a ditch or streamlet not far away, quite a quantity of Large Bitter-cress Cardamine amara was found by Miss Hilda M. Williams and Miss F. M. Thomas. This is a decidedly rare plant in North Wales.
In the woods at Marford we found a form of the Lesser Celandine, which agreed with the variety to which the name incumbens has been given. This was growing amongst a patch of the ordinary plant (divergens), and tempted one to regard it as merely an unstable variety, as all kinds of connecting forms were present. In many places the leaves of the Lesser Celandine were found to have orange patches on the under-surface, and to be more or less thickened at these parts. Sometimes the petiole was found to be swollen and distorted, and in both cases this was due to the common microfungus Celandine Clustercup Rust Uromyces dactylidis (=Uromyces poae). Another familiar representative of the Uredineae, or Rusts, was Puccinea adoxae, which was not uncommon on the foliage of the little Moschatel. Dr. Ellis found a single example of a microfungus on the Dog’s Mercury, which he identified as Coeoma mercurialis?
The list of fungi observed on this occasion is due to Dr. Ellis, who kindly acted as mycological recorder. Morel Morchella esculenta, St. George's Mushroom Calocybe gambosa (= Tricholoma gambosum), Chestnut Brittlestem Psathyrella spadicea (= Psilocybe spadicea), Mallow Rust Puccinia malvacearum (on Malva rotundifolia), Uromyces dactylidis (= Uromyces poae (aecidia on Ranunculus ficaria and R. repens).
Whalley 28 May 1910
May 28th was noteworthy as the occasion of the smallest field meeting on record, when three members travelled to Whalley, and were there met by Mr. G. H. Hopley, who, with his usual kindness, had undertaken to act as leader. One can only speculate as to the explanation of the fact that the attendance at this meeting was exactly one-eighth of that at the previous excursion in North Wales. It is perhaps only fair to add that the climatic conditions in the Liverpool area were not particularly favourable at the time of starting, although the weather in the Ribble Valley was all that could be desired throughout the day. Still, it seems rather strange, having regard to the number of theoretically staunch Lancastrians in our ranks!
Martholme Hall, Great Harwood, which is close to Whalley, is of interest as being the birthplace of Thomas Hesketh (1561-1613), one of our earliest Lancashire botanists. At that period there were very few persons who could be regarded as botanists in the present sense of the term. A botanist was then a person who collected plants, or studied them, merely in regard to their curative or pseudo-medicinal properties. Old superstitions die hard, and so even in this more enlightened twentieth century one may still occasionally encounter instances which show that these medieval ideas yet linger here and there. Regarding Hesketh’s botanical attainments we know little, but he is described as being “a painefull Chirugion and simplist.”” He appears to have had some acquaintance with British plants, and was a correspondent of Gerard and Parkinson, and contributed a number of Lancashire records, chiefly from this neighbourhood to their herbals. Some of these early notices are of interest as throwing a little light on the nature of the Lancashire flora at that period, and two are worthy of special note.
“ Monophyllon, or One Blade, groweth in Lancashire in Dingley [Dinkley] Wood, six miles from Preston in Amoundernesse, and in Harwood neare to Blackburne likewise.” This represents a very interesting record of a plant May Lily or False Lily of the Valley Maianthemum bifolium (= Smilacina bifolia) having a curiously restricted area in Britain. The only station for it in the British Isles, which botanists regard as aboriginal, is in Forge Valley, near Scarborough. Although Hooker includes Lancashire in its British distribution, the statement appears to rest only on what Gerard has written. The patch in Caen Wood, Middlesex, is regarded as either a garden escape or intentionally planted. The other record refers to the Bird's-eye Primrose (Mealy Primrose) Primula farinosa, a plant now apparently all but extinct in South Lancashire:—‘‘ Red Bird Eyne (Primula veris flore rubro), and White Bird Eyne (albo), grow very plentifully in moist and squally grounds in the North parts of England, as in Harwood neere to Blackburne in Lancashire.” Neither of these plants were seen on the occasion of the present excursion. It is gratifying to know that the Mealy Primrose yet occurs in the neighbourhood, however. This particular station—which shall be nameless—probably represents the southern limit of this species in Britain. The Rev. W. W. Mason acted as recorder at this meeting and went to some trouble to favour us with a complete list of Phanerogamia observed. From this it appears that no less than 172 species and varieties of flowering plants were noted, a very satisfactory total, all things considered.
Overton-on-Dee 11 June 1910
North Wales was again visited on June 11th, when 23 members journeyed to Overton-on-Dee under the leadership of Mr. G. Loftus. This neighbourhood lies close to the junction of three counties—Flint (an isolated portion of), Denbigh, and Shropshire.
The handsome Bay Willow (Bay-leaved Willow) Salix pentandra was encountered in several places by the roadside between the station and the village and was new to some of us. This is very unlike most of its relatives in some respects and might almost be mistaken for some cultivated evergreen on account of its foliage, did not bark, twigs, buds and catkins identify it beyond doubt as belonging to the Willow fraternity.
On several of the ancient yews in Overton Churchyard—one of “the seven wonders of Wales ’’ - we observed a parasitic fungus growing out of reach. We were unable to obtain examples of this Polypore, which it was thought might be Chicken-of-the-Woods Polyporus sulphureus.
Descending from the village, we followed a field-path with the Dee for company. The country hereabouts is extremely pretty, and the rich meadows and intersecting ditches afforded an attractive flora. Elsewhere additional variety was yielded by the woodland and river bank vegetation. Amongst the pleasant things which draw us back, year by year, to certain familiar places in the woods, is the scent, of growing things, each of which is the essence of some one or other of the seasons, and from each of which the spirit of association is distilled. Amid the many scarcely definable things which contribute to the fascination of the woodland at this season is the subtle perfume of the young beech leaves, which one can hardly dissociate from the freshness of the bluebells growing beneath them.
Then, later on, the flavour of autumn haunts one with the gentle melancholy that belongs to dying leaves and the rain-sodden earth.
The marshy woods fringing the Dee between Overton and Erbistock were teeming with plant life. In places there were miniature forests of Giant Horsetail, with masses of the tall, Pendulous Sedge, whose elegant drooping spikes could hardly fail to attract the attention. Some of us were somewhat puzzled over some seedling plants which occurred in profusion in the wood close to Erbistock. The leaves were of a peculiar tint of green, and so extremely thin and delicate was the foliage that it seemed only natural to find these plants confined to the shaded wood, as one could hardly imagine such frail beings as capable of existence in an open situation or exposed to the direct rays of the sun. We finally solved the identity of this umbrophilous species, which was the Touch-me-not Balsam Impatiens noli-tangere. Some true albino examples of the common Bugle, in which the flowers were entirely white, were also noticed hereabouts.
Several interesting aquatic plants were noticed in the ditches below Overton before reaching the woods. Amongst some sedges found here was a plant which the Rev. W. W. Mason subsequently identified as being ‘‘undoubtedly Fibrous Tussock-sedge Carex appropinquata (= Carex paradoxa), a splendid find.”
Mr. Mason then forwarded specimens to an authority on these plants, who reported that he was uncertain whether to regard it as being Greater Tussock-sedge Carex paniculata or Fibrous Tussock-sedge Carex appropinquata (= C. paradoxa), although it seemed to agree best with the latter. According to some, C. paradoxa is merely a sub-species or form of the much commoner C. paniculata, while others consider it specifically distinct. The two plants are very similar in some respects, and by no means easy of differentiation. Carex paradoxa is an extremely rare British sedge and is so far only known from three localities:—Norfolk, near York, and near Mullingar, in Ireland. I believe recent observations and discoveries tend to shew that this sedge is not quite so rare and local as the above remarks—based on our standard manual of the British Flora—would indicate In view of these facts, it will perhaps be best and safest to consider the identity of the Overton plant as an open question for the present.
So far, the walk had been through that detached portion of the County of Flint, which is known as Maelor, or amongst the Welsh as Maelor Saesneg. Reaching the Ferry, we crossed the Dee in a manner reminiscent of a bygone age, and landed in the County of Denbigh. About the Ferry House and Erbistock Church there was a fine show of the Red Valerian (Spur Valerian) Centranthus ruber (= Kentranthus ruber), and here also was a quantity of yellow Corydalis, Fern-leaved Corydalis Corydalis cheilanthifolia which already afforded a display of ornamental lyre-shaped blossoms. In continuing our walk up the river on the Denbigh side, we encountered some bushes of Sweet Briar Rosa rubiginosa, a very rare rose in this part of the country, and which was readily identified at a distance by the pleasant fragrance of the aromatic foliage. Near by were a few examples of the Soapwort. This is essentially a hawkmoth flower, and the blossoms develop a distinct scent with the advent of dusk. The nectar is secreted at the base of the slender calyx tube and is at such a depth as to effectively baffle most British insects. Occasionally one may observe a flower being visited by a deluded Cabbage White butterfly, but without avail, as the proboscis is all too short to reach the forbidden draught. In its floral biology the Soapwort closely resembles its relative the Nottingham Catchfly Silene nutans. As in the latter, self-pollination is almost entirely excluded by reason of the marked protandry which prevails. The outer whorl of the androecium ripens first, and as a result of the elongation of the filaments, these five anthers are projected beyond the flower and the anthers then dehisce. After the pollen has been liberated, this whorl diverges and leaves the entrance of the flower open. The inner whorl now repeat this process, and lastly, the styles elongate and expand their stigmas at the same level previously occupied by the anthers.
For the very full list of Phanerogamia observed at this excursion we have again to thank the Rev. W. W. Mason, who went to considerable trouble to prepare a complete census. This shows the very creditable total of 237 species. Dr. Ellis acted as mycological recorder, and is responsible for the list of fungi which were found Snapping Bonnet Mycena vitilis, Bulbous Bonnet M. stylobates, Collared Parachute Marasmius rotula, Conical Brittlestem Parasola conopilea (= Psathyra conopilea), Dryad's Saddle Polyporus squamosus (= Polyporus squamatus), Chicken-of-the-Woods Laetiporus sulphureus (= P. sulphureus), Toothed Crust Basidioradulum radula (= Radulum orbiculare), Peniophora cinerea, Pine Jelly Exidia saccharina (= Ulocolla saccharina), Celandine Clustercup Rust Uromyces dactylidis (uredospores), Puccinia poarum (=U. poae (aecidiospores= Aecidium tussilaginis), Thistle Rust Puccinia punctiformis (= P. suaveolens, Mallow Rust Puccinia malvacearum, slime-moulds Trichia varia, Wolf’s Milk Lycogala epidendrum (= L. miniatum), Hypocrea schweinitzii (= Trichoderma lignorum), Myrothecium roridum, Hazel Woodwart Hypoxylon fuscum, Eutypa lata, Eutypella quercina?, Common Grey Disco Mollisia cinerea, Ramularia rumicis?, R. roridus?
To Mr. G. Loftus we are also much indebted for this very pleasant and prolific meeting, the marked success of which is entirely owing to his efforts.
Freshfield and Formby 27 June 1910
An evening excursion to the sand dunes between Freshfield and Formby was announced for June 27th. Owing to the inclement weather there was only a very small attendance. Soon after leaving Freshfield Station, and shortly. after arriving upon the sand-hills, it began to rain heavily, and this continued for most of the night.
Under these circumstances it is hardly remarkable that there should be little to chronicle in connection with this meeting. Certain members, accidentally or otherwise, succeeded in getting lost, and so it is quite possible that interesting but unreported observations are lacking in this account!
In the lane leading to the shore, we noticed some plants of Shepherd’s Purse, which appeared as if they had been liberally sprinkled with whitewash. On closer inspection our suspicions were confirmed, and the ‘‘ whitewash’’ proved to be a parasite, Albugo candida (= Cystopus candidus), one of the ‘‘white rusts which usually selects some member of Cruciferae as a host. This selective parasitism of so many micro-fungi is rather a curious fact. A very large number of these tiny parasites are known, each of which always confines itself to one particular host plant; or sometimes it may be that the fungus shares its patronage between several allied species of host, or in some cases takes a wider outlook but confines itself to some particular natural order or group of plants. It seems very probable that this specific affinity between so many micro-fungi and certain hosts is due to chemotaxis. Almost every plant contains some chemical substance or substances which may be regarded as being more or less peculiar to itself. It may be, and probably is often the case, that such substance or substances are only present in such small amount as to be difficult or impossible of estimation by chemical methods. And it is also true that some of these organic compounds are of a nature which renders their recognition a matter of great difficulty. But neither of these facts in any way weakens my suggestion, as it is well known that extremely small quantities of some substances may be in such minute amount as to be difficult of detection or estimation by chemical methods, and yet this may be quite sufficient to exert a marked physiological effect.” So, it is permissible to suggest that before the spores of many (?all) micro-fungi are capable of germination and development, a certain chemical stimulus due to some particular substance is necessary. If the spores of a parasitic micro-fungus come into contact with a plant containing the requisite substance, then such plant may be regarded as positively chemotactic and adapted as a host for that particular fungus. On the other hand, if the spores of the same fungus alight on a plant which does not possess this essential stimulant, then germination would not occur, and such plant would be negatively chemotactic and therefore incapable of serving as a host for the fungus in question. If this hypothesis is accepted, we have a simple explanation of this peculiar selective parasitism which is characteristic of so many fungi. Many species of Cruciferae are noteworthy for containing various allyl compounds, the ferment ‘myrosin,’”’ and other substances. Hence, we would suggest that possibly some one of these is essential to the germination and development of Albugo candida (= Cystopus candidus). If this is correct, then the apparent predilection of this Phycomycete for Cruciferous hosts is hardly remarkable.
Not far from where we observed the Cystopus, the American plant Springbeauty Claytonia perfoliata was thriving in quantity and appeared to be thoroughly at home. The locally uncommon Bird’s-foot Ornithopus perpusillus was growing along the sandy margin of the lane nearby, and a little further on we saw some small slender cottony-looking plants, which proved to be the Small Cudweed Logfia minima (or Lesser Cudweed Filago minima), a species observed in this same station at a previous meeting of the Society some years ago. At first sight it seems strange that any plant could survive in so arid a situation, but a little examination of the anatomy and morphology of Filago minima will show that this species has effectively solved the problem of ways and means by various ingenious expedients. Near Formby Station there was a large patch of Ambrosia artemisiifolia, one of the American Ragweeds, and a Composite which finds no mention in the Liverpool district floras. Many other interesting plants were observed, but as these are familiar to most of us, and have found mention in accounts of previous meetings in this neighbourhood, it is hardly necessary to mention such.
Leasowe 9 July 1910
The fifth field meeting was held in Cheshire on July 9th, a charming day, when we travelled to Leasowe. This was, or at least supposed to be, a joint meeting in conjunction with the Chester Society of Natural Science and the Warrington Naturalists’ Field Club. We joined at the invitation of the latter, who had undertaken to make all necessary arrangements, and a prominent member had promised to act as leader and meet the party at the station. On arrival at Leasowe, where the Chester party were awaiting us, there was no sign of either the Warrington Society or the person who had undertaken to meet us and act as guide and make all arrangements. No one seemed to have any definite information as to the whereabouts of the missing Warringtonians, so we proceeded towards the coast under the joint leadership of the President and Mr. T. E. Miln, of Chester. On reaching the Common, we observed a small party, including the delinquent leader, who were armed with butterfly nets and apparently busily engaged in the chase of various unfortunate dragonflies and Lepidoptera. Attempts at reminding the theoretical ‘‘leader ’’ of his duties were futile, as he and most of his small party succeeded in keeping a convenient distance away, so we were finally not sorry to leave them behind, with the exception of one or two Warrington naturalists who fell in with the Chester Society and ourselves. Such experiences as this are fortunately unique. We were informed sometime later, on very credible authority, that the “leader ”’ became panic-stricken at the idea of meeting so many botanists and naturalists, and apparently having a more or less exaggerated opinion of their enthusiasm and attainments, took refuge in flight!
We have already noted various facts concerning the flora of this neighbourhood on the occasion of a previous meeting here, and so it is scarcely necessary to repeat many observations. The Buttonweed (Yellow Button) Cotula coronopifolia was extremely luxuriant, and in the height of flowering, and no one could recollect having ever seen it in such fine condition before. A little, white-flowered crowfoot Brackish Water-crowfoot Ranunculus baudotii was seen at its best in the long brackish ditches close to the embankment. Here, too, were two species of Stonewort Bristly Stonewort Chara hispida and Fragile Stonewort Chara globularis (= C. fragilis). A long slender aquatic plant also observed here was Zannichellia palustris, the Horned Pondweed, a species new to some of us. At one point we found a quantity of Bog Pimpernel, which afforded a pretty picture with its neat trailing stems and delicate flesh-coloured blossoms.
Quite a number of examples of the Natterjack were noticed in damp situations behind the embankment. This is a distinctly local amphibian, although not uncommon in several stations in the Liverpool area. It is smaller than the common toad and is easily recognised by the yellowish line running down the back. The toes are only slightly webbed, while the common toad has more or less conspicuously webbed feet. There are other differences, but these simple characters will readily enable one to identify this interesting little amphibian. Amongst several plants found about the embankment were Sea Pearlwort Sagina maritima, a scurvy grass - Danish Scurvygrass Cochlearia danica, and the curious strawberry-headed trefoil - Strawberry Clover Trifolium fragiferum.
Continuing along the coast for most of the way, Hoylake was finally reached, and here tea was obtained. On the way, Mr. J. A. Wheldon found specimens of a lichen which was recently new to science and was first obtained by him on the Lancashire sand-dunes. This diminutive plant, to which the name of Collemopsidium arenisedum (= Arthopyrenia areniseda) has been given by Miss A. Lorrain Smith, appears to have only been found in the counties of Lancashire and Cheshire so far. For the list of Cryptogamia observed at this meeting we are indebted to Mr. Wheldon. Cylindric Beard-moss Didymodon insulanus (= Barbula cylindrica), Tufted Thread-moss Bryum caespiticium (in fruit), Drooping Thread-moss Bryum algovicum (= Bryum pendulum) (in fruit), Heim's Pottia Hennediella heimii (= Pottia heimii) (in fruit), Sand-hill Screw-moss Syntrichia ruraliformis (= Tortula arenicola), Whitish Feather-moss Brachythecium albicans, Yellow Feather-moss Homalothecium lutescens (= Camptothecium lutescens), Fertile Feather-moss Drepanocladus polygamus (= Hypnum polygamum), Lecanora campestris, Common Orange Lichen Xanthoria parietina (= Physcia parietina), Cetraria aculeata, and fungus Fairy Ring Champignon Marasmius oreades.
Stanney Wood and Blackford 20 August 1910
The next excursion was again held in Cheshire on August 20th, when Stanney Wood and Blackford were visited. On arrival at Ellesmere Port a small party of members proceeded to Stanney Wood, under the guidance of the Rev. J. M. New and Mr. G. Loftus. We have to thank Mr. C. N. Watson, of Rake Hall, for courteous permission to investigate this wood, and for kindly placing the services of his keeper at the disposal of the party on this occasion. The flora of this little-known wood scarcely came up to expectations, and Dr. Ellis informs me that perhaps the two most noteworthy Phanerogamia seen here were the Gypsywort Lycopus europaeus and a form of helleborine, which he considers to be Broad-leaved Helleborine Epipactis helleborine (= E. media). A number of fungi were found, and for this list our thanks are due to Dr. Ellis. Plums And Custard Tricholomopsis rutilans (= Tricholoma rutilans), Common Bonnet Mycena galericulata, Milking Bonnet Mycena galopus var. galopus (= M. galopoda), Clitocybe infundibuliformis, Oakbug Milkcap Lactarius quietus, Blackening Brittlegill Russula nigricans, Ochre Brittlegill R. ochroleuca and R. citrina, Sickener R. emetica, Horsehair Parachute Gymnopus androsaceus (= Marasmius androsaceus), Citrine Waxcap Hygrocybe citrinovirens (= Hygrophorus obrusseus), Parrot Waxcap Gliophorus psittacinus (= H. psittacinus), Entoloma? (= Nolanea pascua), Inocybe mixtilis (= Inocybe scabella), Milky Conecap Conocybe apala (= Galera lateritia). Brown Rollrim Paxillus involutus. Dung Roundhead Stropharia stercoraria, Dung Roundhead S. semiglobata, Verdigris Roundhead S. aeruginosa, Chestnut Brittlestem Psathyrella spadicea (= Psathyre spadicea), Weeping Widow Lacrymaria lacrymabunda (= Psilocybe areolata), Magic Mushroom Psilocybe semilanceata. Petticoat Mottlegill Panaeolus papilionaceus var. papilionaceus (= Panaeolus sphinctrinus), Red Cracking Bolete Boletus chrysenteron, Bay Bolete B. badius, Stinkhorn Phallus impudicus, Common Earthball Scleroderma citrinum (= S. vulgare), Dasyscypha calcina? (on Larch), slime mould Arcyria denudata (= A.punicea).
Leaving the wood, the little hamlet of Backford (‘‘the ford by the ridge’’) was reached. Backford Church possesses some interesting associations, and as the Vicar (the Rev. J. M. New) is an ardent archaeologist and naturalist, the party were fortunate in being under his guidance on this occasion. A feature of this old church is the ancient black-letter Bible, bearing the date 1617, and chained to the desk according to the old custom. It is curious to recollect that in the valley below Backford, according to some old historians, there formerly flowed an ancient river, which is said to have united the Mersey and the Dee. Our best thanks are due to the Rev. J. M. New for his kindness to us on this occasion, and his hospitality in inviting the party to tea at Backford Vicarage requires a special acknowledgment.
Llanddulas 3 September 1910
Each year there is usually some field meeting which stands out pre-eminent amongst the rest, and 1910 was no exception. All things taken into account, there can be little question that either Erbistock or Llanddulas must rank first amongst the excursions of the past year. The comparison between the two is perhaps rather invidious and hardly fair, but I think most of those members who were present on both occasions would place Llanddulas first. The seventh field meeting was a day excursion on September 3rd, and the interest and success of this Welsh expedition conclusively showed the advantage and desirability of occasional longer excursions of this kind.
Prettily situated on the Denbigh coast by the mouth of the little River Ddulas. The locality is an ideal one for the botanist or naturalist. Within a comparatively small area one finds shingly shore, clay banks, moorland, limestone cliffs and common, and wooded river banks, each of these possessing a flora of their own.
The shingle on the shore between Llanddulas and Pensarn yielded some acceptable plants. The Yellow Horned-poppy Glaucium flavum was plentiful in places, and the curious and conspicuous long siliqua-like fruits were new to some of the party. The sticky relative of the common groundsel Sticky Groundsel Senecio viscosus was quite at home and equally abundant in similar situations. The Sea Bindweed was also seen, but no flowers were in evidence. The vegetation of this dry shingle afforded an interesting study in adaptation, and as one would expect, was of a distinctly xerophilous type. Amongst other constituents seen here were the Sea Spurge Euphorbia paralias, two species of stonecrop Biting Stonecrop Sedum acre and White Stonecrop S. album, the Spiny Restharrow Ononis spinosa, and the Sea Purslane Honckenya peploides. Here, too, creeping amongst the pebbles, a most unusual situation for it, was the dainty Iivy-leaved Toadflax. By the mouth of the Ddulas we came across the Peppermint and true forget-me-not or Water Forget-me-not Myosotis scorpioides (= M. palustris). At one part of the shore were a few plants of Black Nightshade Solanum nigrum, but we must confess in suspicious company, for close to was garden Canterbury-bells Campanula medium, and some examples of Motherwort Leonurus cardiaca.
Leaving the coast, we struck inland, following the valley of the Ddulas for about a mile and a half, and with Llysfaen hill on our right. This rocky eminence is a portion of the carboniferous limestone range which terminates in the headland of the Great Orme, some nine miles to the north-west. There is a marked similarity in the flora of the two places, which is, of course, of a decidedly calciphilous character. We were very pleased to come across a profusion of that quaint little orchid Autumn Lady's-tresses Spiranthes spiralis (= Spiranthes autumnalis). The flowers are remarkable for their peculiar spiral arrangement, which give the inflorescence a very characteristic appearance. The blossoms, though rather small, are very beautiful, and have a fragrance simulating that of hyacinths. Amongst many interesting species which haunt this limestone hill are the Wild lettuce Great Lettuce Lactuca virosa, which was growing in almost inaccessible situations on the cliffs, Marrubium vulgare (Horehound), the Carline Thistle Carlina vulgaris, and the Spindle tree Euonymus europaeus. The latter was covered with an abundant crop of immature fruit which would doubtless afford a pretty picture later on. Here, too, we observed the Field Gentian Gentianella campestris (= Gentiana campestris), the deep-blue blossoms of which served to remind one of the advent of autumn.
At one place there was a large patch of the slender and tiny- flowered Vervain Verbena officinalis, the sole British representative of its order. This appears to have been a favourite plant with the Druids, by whom it was regarded as being more or less sacred. Anointing with Vervain was considered by them the readiest way of obtaining all that the heart could desire, to keep off fevers, to procure friendship, and the like. Some of the Welsh names for this plant are distinctly suggestive—Cas gan Gythraul (the Fiend’s aversion), Y Dderwen Vendigaid (the blessed oak), and Llysiau’r Hudd (the Enchanter’s plant). In that ancient Welsh work known as Meddygon Myddfai, a quaint production which abounds with interesting plant lore, the following curious recipe is given: - “To Avoid Enemies.” “If one goes to battle, let him seek the Vervain, and keep it in his clothes, and he will escape from his enemies.’’
The Aspen, which was also found at this meeting, possesses a very distinctive local name in some parts of Denbighshire. According to one old Welsh countryman, we were informed—and this has been independently confirmed on further inquiry—that the vernacular name is ‘‘ Tafod y Gwragedd ”;’ in English this would be translated as “Woman’s tongue.”
Eastham Woods 8 October 1910
The last excursion of the session was held at Eastham Woods on October 8th and took the form of a fungus foray. Dr. J. W. Ellis and Mr. H. J. Wheldon, to whom we are indebted for the list of fungi noted at this meeting, acted as mycological recorders. Ninety-four species were observed, which is a very fair number, having regard to the locality and the dry weather which preceded this meeting.
List of Fungi observed at Eastham, October 8th, 1910: -
Honey Fungus Armillaria mellea, Earthy Powdercap Cystoderma amianthinum (= Lepiota amianthina), Rooting Shank Hymenopellis radicata (= Collybia radicata), Spotted Toughshank Rhodocollybia maculata (= C. maculata), Russet Toughshank Gymnopus dryophilus (= C. dryophila), Aromatic Knight Tricholoma lascivum, Common Bonnet Mycena galericulata and M. rugosa, Bleeding Bonnet M. sanguinolenta, Oyster Mushroom Pleurotus ostreatus, Meadow Wax-Cap Cuphophyllus pratensis var. pratensis (= Hygrophorus pratensis), Parrot Waxcap Gliophorus psittacinus (= H. psittacinus), Snowy Wax-Cap Cuphophyllus virgineus var. virgineus (= H. virgineus), Vermilion Waxcap Hygrocybe miniata(= H. miniatus), Slimy Waxcap Gliophorus irrigatus (= H. unguinosus), Russula ochracea, Ochre Brittlegill R. ochroleuca, Blackening Brittlegill R. nigricans, Sickener R. emetica, Fragile Brittlegill R. fragilis, Rosy Brittlegill R. rosea, R. azurea, Charcoal Burner R. cyanoxantha, Geranium Brittlegill R. fellea, Oakbug Milkcap Lactarius quietus, Mild Milkcap L. subdulcis, Clitocybe cenusta?, Deciever Laccaria laccata and Amethyst Deceiver Laccaria amethystina (= var. amythestina), Entoloma pascuum (= Nolanea pascua), Variable Oysterling Crepidotus variabilis (= Claudopus variabilis), Scurfy Twiglet Tubaria furfuracea, Common Conecap Galera tenera, Moss Bell Galerina hypnorum (Galera hypnorum), Conocybe subovalis (= G. ovalis), Star Fibrecap Inocybe asterospora, Brown Rollrim Paxillus involutus, Yellow Fieldcap Bolbitius titubans(= Bolbitius boltoni) ?, Dung Roundhead Stropharia semiglobata and Stropharia stercoraria, Verdigris Roundhead S. aeruginosa, Garland Roundhead S. coronilla, Sulphur Tuft Hypholoma fasciculare, Brick Tuft Hypholoma lateritium (= H. sublateritium), Common Stump Brittlestem Psathyrella piluliformis (=H. hydrophilum),Magic Mushroom Psilocybe semilanceata, Fairy Inkcap Coprinellus disseminatus (= Psathyrella disseminata), Egghead Mottlegill Panaeolus semiovatus var. semiovatus (= Anellaria separata and A. fimiputris), Turf Mottlegill Panaeolus fimicola, Petticoat Mottlegill P. papilionaceus and P. campanulatus, Coprinopsis stercorea (= Coprinus stercorarius), Grey Inkcap Coprinopsis cinerea (= C. fimeitarius), Pleated Inkcap Parasola plicatilis (= C. plicatilis), Shaggy Inkcap C. comatus, Stinkhorn Phallus impudicus, Common Jelly Spot Dacrymyces stillatus, White Spindles Clavaria fragilis (= C. vermicularis), Meadow Coral Clavulinopsis corniculata (= Clavaria muscoides and C. fastigiata), Yellow Stagshorn Calocera viscosa, Common Earthball Scleroderma citrinum (= S. vulgare), Poria vaporaria?, P. quercina?, Turkeytail Trametes versicolor (= Polystictus versicolor), Dryad's Saddle Polyporus squamosus, Birch Polypore Fomitopsis betulina (= P. betulinus), Root Rot Heterobasidion annosum (= Fomes annosus), Flat Oysterling Crepidotus applanatus (= F. applanatus), Beefsteak Fungus Fistulina hepatica, Split Porecrust Schizopora paradoxa (= Irpex obliquus), Grandinia granulosa?, Enveloping Crust Sebacina incrustans (= Soppitiella sebacina), Bleeding Broadleaf Crust Stereum rugosum, Hairy Curtain Crust S. hirsutum, Corticium lacteum, Peniophora cinerea, Wet Rot Coniophora puteana, Trichoderma lignosum?, Coleosporium tussilaginis (= C. sonchi), Dog Vomit Slime Mould Mucilago crustacea (= Spumaria alba), Flowers Of Tan Fuligo septica, Craterium minutum (= C.pedunculatum), Stemonitis fusca, Hymenoscyphus calyculus (= Helotium virgultorum), Cowpat Gem Cheilymenia granulata (= Humara granulata), Ascobolus stercorarius (= A. furfuraceus), Glazed Cup Humaria hemisphaerica (= Lachnea hemispherica), Black Bulgar Bulgaria inquinans, Nettle Rash Leptosphaeria acuta (= Sphaeria acuta), Sycamore Tarspot Rhytisma acerinum, Coral Spot Nectria cinnabarina = Tubercularia vulgaris.
A RESUME OF THE FIELD MEETINGS OF 1910. By THE HONORARY SECRETARY.
Somehow, I often fancy that naturalists—and perhaps botanists more especially—derive an added interest and happiness from life, to which an outside observer is quite immune and unable to appreciate; and appreciate; as ever been so. Even in the writings of ancient scribes and philosophers one may find occasional more or less vague references to this fact, which is perhaps more aptly and subtly expressed through the medium of the delicate instinct of the poet. The true nature lover is to some extent independent of weather and time, and so at this season one is wont to indulge in happy recollections of experiences, results, and rambles of the past, mingled with pleasant anticipations of experiment, investigation, and excursions in the future.
Rossett and Marford 7 May 1910
The first field meeting of the year was held at Rossett and Marford, on May 7th, under the leadership of Dr. J. W. Ellis. The district in question has long been a favourite resort with naturalists and is one of the few localities within easy reach of Liverpool which possesses an early flora. Although situated just over the Cheshire border, for most of the district—with the exception of an anomalous isolated fragment of Flint—is a portion of Denbighshire, there are few indications that this is a part of Wales. Here the English accent can be distinctly recognised, and the place wears quite an English aspect. The Cambrian element is " not entirely lacking, however, as the name itself bears testimony. Anyone accustomed to the study of English place-names might be at a loss to account for the etymology of Rossett. The name is said to be derived from the Welsh rhos, a moor, and is a corrupt form of the plural rhosydd, literally, the moors. It is interesting to note that the district is frequently referred to locally as ‘‘the Rossett,”’ and that these two significant place-names are practically all that now linger to testify to the former character of the country hereabouts.
Leaving Rossett Station, the field path towards ‘‘ The Roft’’ was followed, with the picturesque Alyn for company. The usual spring flora was well represented, and in places the pungent-leaved garlic afforded a welcome show of bloom. To many of us our vernal flowers have a special charm of their own. And as the years roll on, one spring succeeding another with seeming ever-increasing rapidity, and with the passing of each winter, one experiences an increasing pleasure at every advent of these familiar flower faces.
The leaves of the Sweet Violet were seen here and there, but the flowers were already over. We also observed the narrower and more triangular foliage of its relative Hairy Violet Viola hirta, and both these species, along with various other plants encountered in the neighbourhood, reminded one of certain geological differences between this area and the adjoining English county. Hairy Violet Viola hirta is unknown in Cheshire, while the sweet violet is distinctly uncommon, and a plant of very dubious nativity in that county.
The giant foliage of the Butterbur clothed the banks of the Alyn in many places, but the flowers had almost disappeared, and only an occasional tall fruiting stem remained. There is a little point in connection with the distribution of this species which calls for notice and investigation. The plant is usually sub-diecious, i.e., the capitula of a given individual consist almost exclusively of either staminate or pistillate florets. Although one may generally detect a few staminate florets in a pistillate inflorescence, and vice versa, the plant is practically diecious. In several parts of Flint and Denbigh, where the Butterbur abounds, the pistillate plant appears to be excessively rare, the predominant individuals being staminate.
This seems to apply especially to the coast district. Dr. Russell, of Colwyn Bay, informs me that the Butterbur rarely appears to produce perfect seed in that area, and only staminate plants have been seen. It was only after a long continued search that the pistillate plant was eventually found in an inland station, some seven miles from Colwyn Bay. I have also met with a similar condition at Mostyn on the Flintshire coast. The pistillate plant is of a distinctive habit, and is taller and finer in every way than the staminate plant.
Many of the characteristic plants of the district have already been noted on the occasion of a previous excursion which we held here two years ago, and so it is hardly necessary to say much concerning these. The present meeting was held some six weeks earlier than that of 1908, and so the flora presented rather a different aspect on this occasion. Several noteworthy plants were seen which we had not found previously. An immature example of the peculiar Adder’s-tongue Ophioglossum vulgatum was discovered by Miss E. M. Porter in a meadow between ‘‘ The Roft ’’ and the Alyn. In a ditch or streamlet not far away, quite a quantity of Large Bitter-cress Cardamine amara was found by Miss Hilda M. Williams and Miss F. M. Thomas. This is a decidedly rare plant in North Wales.
In the woods at Marford we found a form of the Lesser Celandine, which agreed with the variety to which the name incumbens has been given. This was growing amongst a patch of the ordinary plant (divergens), and tempted one to regard it as merely an unstable variety, as all kinds of connecting forms were present. In many places the leaves of the Lesser Celandine were found to have orange patches on the under-surface, and to be more or less thickened at these parts. Sometimes the petiole was found to be swollen and distorted, and in both cases this was due to the common microfungus Celandine Clustercup Rust Uromyces dactylidis (=Uromyces poae). Another familiar representative of the Uredineae, or Rusts, was Puccinea adoxae, which was not uncommon on the foliage of the little Moschatel. Dr. Ellis found a single example of a microfungus on the Dog’s Mercury, which he identified as Coeoma mercurialis?
The list of fungi observed on this occasion is due to Dr. Ellis, who kindly acted as mycological recorder. Morel Morchella esculenta, St. George's Mushroom Calocybe gambosa (= Tricholoma gambosum), Chestnut Brittlestem Psathyrella spadicea (= Psilocybe spadicea), Mallow Rust Puccinia malvacearum (on Malva rotundifolia), Uromyces dactylidis (= Uromyces poae (aecidia on Ranunculus ficaria and R. repens).
Whalley 28 May 1910
May 28th was noteworthy as the occasion of the smallest field meeting on record, when three members travelled to Whalley, and were there met by Mr. G. H. Hopley, who, with his usual kindness, had undertaken to act as leader. One can only speculate as to the explanation of the fact that the attendance at this meeting was exactly one-eighth of that at the previous excursion in North Wales. It is perhaps only fair to add that the climatic conditions in the Liverpool area were not particularly favourable at the time of starting, although the weather in the Ribble Valley was all that could be desired throughout the day. Still, it seems rather strange, having regard to the number of theoretically staunch Lancastrians in our ranks!
Martholme Hall, Great Harwood, which is close to Whalley, is of interest as being the birthplace of Thomas Hesketh (1561-1613), one of our earliest Lancashire botanists. At that period there were very few persons who could be regarded as botanists in the present sense of the term. A botanist was then a person who collected plants, or studied them, merely in regard to their curative or pseudo-medicinal properties. Old superstitions die hard, and so even in this more enlightened twentieth century one may still occasionally encounter instances which show that these medieval ideas yet linger here and there. Regarding Hesketh’s botanical attainments we know little, but he is described as being “a painefull Chirugion and simplist.”” He appears to have had some acquaintance with British plants, and was a correspondent of Gerard and Parkinson, and contributed a number of Lancashire records, chiefly from this neighbourhood to their herbals. Some of these early notices are of interest as throwing a little light on the nature of the Lancashire flora at that period, and two are worthy of special note.
“ Monophyllon, or One Blade, groweth in Lancashire in Dingley [Dinkley] Wood, six miles from Preston in Amoundernesse, and in Harwood neare to Blackburne likewise.” This represents a very interesting record of a plant May Lily or False Lily of the Valley Maianthemum bifolium (= Smilacina bifolia) having a curiously restricted area in Britain. The only station for it in the British Isles, which botanists regard as aboriginal, is in Forge Valley, near Scarborough. Although Hooker includes Lancashire in its British distribution, the statement appears to rest only on what Gerard has written. The patch in Caen Wood, Middlesex, is regarded as either a garden escape or intentionally planted. The other record refers to the Bird's-eye Primrose (Mealy Primrose) Primula farinosa, a plant now apparently all but extinct in South Lancashire:—‘‘ Red Bird Eyne (Primula veris flore rubro), and White Bird Eyne (albo), grow very plentifully in moist and squally grounds in the North parts of England, as in Harwood neere to Blackburne in Lancashire.” Neither of these plants were seen on the occasion of the present excursion. It is gratifying to know that the Mealy Primrose yet occurs in the neighbourhood, however. This particular station—which shall be nameless—probably represents the southern limit of this species in Britain. The Rev. W. W. Mason acted as recorder at this meeting and went to some trouble to favour us with a complete list of Phanerogamia observed. From this it appears that no less than 172 species and varieties of flowering plants were noted, a very satisfactory total, all things considered.
Overton-on-Dee 11 June 1910
North Wales was again visited on June 11th, when 23 members journeyed to Overton-on-Dee under the leadership of Mr. G. Loftus. This neighbourhood lies close to the junction of three counties—Flint (an isolated portion of), Denbigh, and Shropshire.
The handsome Bay Willow (Bay-leaved Willow) Salix pentandra was encountered in several places by the roadside between the station and the village and was new to some of us. This is very unlike most of its relatives in some respects and might almost be mistaken for some cultivated evergreen on account of its foliage, did not bark, twigs, buds and catkins identify it beyond doubt as belonging to the Willow fraternity.
On several of the ancient yews in Overton Churchyard—one of “the seven wonders of Wales ’’ - we observed a parasitic fungus growing out of reach. We were unable to obtain examples of this Polypore, which it was thought might be Chicken-of-the-Woods Polyporus sulphureus.
Descending from the village, we followed a field-path with the Dee for company. The country hereabouts is extremely pretty, and the rich meadows and intersecting ditches afforded an attractive flora. Elsewhere additional variety was yielded by the woodland and river bank vegetation. Amongst the pleasant things which draw us back, year by year, to certain familiar places in the woods, is the scent, of growing things, each of which is the essence of some one or other of the seasons, and from each of which the spirit of association is distilled. Amid the many scarcely definable things which contribute to the fascination of the woodland at this season is the subtle perfume of the young beech leaves, which one can hardly dissociate from the freshness of the bluebells growing beneath them.
Then, later on, the flavour of autumn haunts one with the gentle melancholy that belongs to dying leaves and the rain-sodden earth.
The marshy woods fringing the Dee between Overton and Erbistock were teeming with plant life. In places there were miniature forests of Giant Horsetail, with masses of the tall, Pendulous Sedge, whose elegant drooping spikes could hardly fail to attract the attention. Some of us were somewhat puzzled over some seedling plants which occurred in profusion in the wood close to Erbistock. The leaves were of a peculiar tint of green, and so extremely thin and delicate was the foliage that it seemed only natural to find these plants confined to the shaded wood, as one could hardly imagine such frail beings as capable of existence in an open situation or exposed to the direct rays of the sun. We finally solved the identity of this umbrophilous species, which was the Touch-me-not Balsam Impatiens noli-tangere. Some true albino examples of the common Bugle, in which the flowers were entirely white, were also noticed hereabouts.
Several interesting aquatic plants were noticed in the ditches below Overton before reaching the woods. Amongst some sedges found here was a plant which the Rev. W. W. Mason subsequently identified as being ‘‘undoubtedly Fibrous Tussock-sedge Carex appropinquata (= Carex paradoxa), a splendid find.”
Mr. Mason then forwarded specimens to an authority on these plants, who reported that he was uncertain whether to regard it as being Greater Tussock-sedge Carex paniculata or Fibrous Tussock-sedge Carex appropinquata (= C. paradoxa), although it seemed to agree best with the latter. According to some, C. paradoxa is merely a sub-species or form of the much commoner C. paniculata, while others consider it specifically distinct. The two plants are very similar in some respects, and by no means easy of differentiation. Carex paradoxa is an extremely rare British sedge and is so far only known from three localities:—Norfolk, near York, and near Mullingar, in Ireland. I believe recent observations and discoveries tend to shew that this sedge is not quite so rare and local as the above remarks—based on our standard manual of the British Flora—would indicate In view of these facts, it will perhaps be best and safest to consider the identity of the Overton plant as an open question for the present.
So far, the walk had been through that detached portion of the County of Flint, which is known as Maelor, or amongst the Welsh as Maelor Saesneg. Reaching the Ferry, we crossed the Dee in a manner reminiscent of a bygone age, and landed in the County of Denbigh. About the Ferry House and Erbistock Church there was a fine show of the Red Valerian (Spur Valerian) Centranthus ruber (= Kentranthus ruber), and here also was a quantity of yellow Corydalis, Fern-leaved Corydalis Corydalis cheilanthifolia which already afforded a display of ornamental lyre-shaped blossoms. In continuing our walk up the river on the Denbigh side, we encountered some bushes of Sweet Briar Rosa rubiginosa, a very rare rose in this part of the country, and which was readily identified at a distance by the pleasant fragrance of the aromatic foliage. Near by were a few examples of the Soapwort. This is essentially a hawkmoth flower, and the blossoms develop a distinct scent with the advent of dusk. The nectar is secreted at the base of the slender calyx tube and is at such a depth as to effectively baffle most British insects. Occasionally one may observe a flower being visited by a deluded Cabbage White butterfly, but without avail, as the proboscis is all too short to reach the forbidden draught. In its floral biology the Soapwort closely resembles its relative the Nottingham Catchfly Silene nutans. As in the latter, self-pollination is almost entirely excluded by reason of the marked protandry which prevails. The outer whorl of the androecium ripens first, and as a result of the elongation of the filaments, these five anthers are projected beyond the flower and the anthers then dehisce. After the pollen has been liberated, this whorl diverges and leaves the entrance of the flower open. The inner whorl now repeat this process, and lastly, the styles elongate and expand their stigmas at the same level previously occupied by the anthers.
For the very full list of Phanerogamia observed at this excursion we have again to thank the Rev. W. W. Mason, who went to considerable trouble to prepare a complete census. This shows the very creditable total of 237 species. Dr. Ellis acted as mycological recorder, and is responsible for the list of fungi which were found Snapping Bonnet Mycena vitilis, Bulbous Bonnet M. stylobates, Collared Parachute Marasmius rotula, Conical Brittlestem Parasola conopilea (= Psathyra conopilea), Dryad's Saddle Polyporus squamosus (= Polyporus squamatus), Chicken-of-the-Woods Laetiporus sulphureus (= P. sulphureus), Toothed Crust Basidioradulum radula (= Radulum orbiculare), Peniophora cinerea, Pine Jelly Exidia saccharina (= Ulocolla saccharina), Celandine Clustercup Rust Uromyces dactylidis (uredospores), Puccinia poarum (=U. poae (aecidiospores= Aecidium tussilaginis), Thistle Rust Puccinia punctiformis (= P. suaveolens, Mallow Rust Puccinia malvacearum, slime-moulds Trichia varia, Wolf’s Milk Lycogala epidendrum (= L. miniatum), Hypocrea schweinitzii (= Trichoderma lignorum), Myrothecium roridum, Hazel Woodwart Hypoxylon fuscum, Eutypa lata, Eutypella quercina?, Common Grey Disco Mollisia cinerea, Ramularia rumicis?, R. roridus?
To Mr. G. Loftus we are also much indebted for this very pleasant and prolific meeting, the marked success of which is entirely owing to his efforts.
Freshfield and Formby 27 June 1910
An evening excursion to the sand dunes between Freshfield and Formby was announced for June 27th. Owing to the inclement weather there was only a very small attendance. Soon after leaving Freshfield Station, and shortly. after arriving upon the sand-hills, it began to rain heavily, and this continued for most of the night.
Under these circumstances it is hardly remarkable that there should be little to chronicle in connection with this meeting. Certain members, accidentally or otherwise, succeeded in getting lost, and so it is quite possible that interesting but unreported observations are lacking in this account!
In the lane leading to the shore, we noticed some plants of Shepherd’s Purse, which appeared as if they had been liberally sprinkled with whitewash. On closer inspection our suspicions were confirmed, and the ‘‘ whitewash’’ proved to be a parasite, Albugo candida (= Cystopus candidus), one of the ‘‘white rusts which usually selects some member of Cruciferae as a host. This selective parasitism of so many micro-fungi is rather a curious fact. A very large number of these tiny parasites are known, each of which always confines itself to one particular host plant; or sometimes it may be that the fungus shares its patronage between several allied species of host, or in some cases takes a wider outlook but confines itself to some particular natural order or group of plants. It seems very probable that this specific affinity between so many micro-fungi and certain hosts is due to chemotaxis. Almost every plant contains some chemical substance or substances which may be regarded as being more or less peculiar to itself. It may be, and probably is often the case, that such substance or substances are only present in such small amount as to be difficult or impossible of estimation by chemical methods. And it is also true that some of these organic compounds are of a nature which renders their recognition a matter of great difficulty. But neither of these facts in any way weakens my suggestion, as it is well known that extremely small quantities of some substances may be in such minute amount as to be difficult of detection or estimation by chemical methods, and yet this may be quite sufficient to exert a marked physiological effect.” So, it is permissible to suggest that before the spores of many (?all) micro-fungi are capable of germination and development, a certain chemical stimulus due to some particular substance is necessary. If the spores of a parasitic micro-fungus come into contact with a plant containing the requisite substance, then such plant may be regarded as positively chemotactic and adapted as a host for that particular fungus. On the other hand, if the spores of the same fungus alight on a plant which does not possess this essential stimulant, then germination would not occur, and such plant would be negatively chemotactic and therefore incapable of serving as a host for the fungus in question. If this hypothesis is accepted, we have a simple explanation of this peculiar selective parasitism which is characteristic of so many fungi. Many species of Cruciferae are noteworthy for containing various allyl compounds, the ferment ‘myrosin,’”’ and other substances. Hence, we would suggest that possibly some one of these is essential to the germination and development of Albugo candida (= Cystopus candidus). If this is correct, then the apparent predilection of this Phycomycete for Cruciferous hosts is hardly remarkable.
Not far from where we observed the Cystopus, the American plant Springbeauty Claytonia perfoliata was thriving in quantity and appeared to be thoroughly at home. The locally uncommon Bird’s-foot Ornithopus perpusillus was growing along the sandy margin of the lane nearby, and a little further on we saw some small slender cottony-looking plants, which proved to be the Small Cudweed Logfia minima (or Lesser Cudweed Filago minima), a species observed in this same station at a previous meeting of the Society some years ago. At first sight it seems strange that any plant could survive in so arid a situation, but a little examination of the anatomy and morphology of Filago minima will show that this species has effectively solved the problem of ways and means by various ingenious expedients. Near Formby Station there was a large patch of Ambrosia artemisiifolia, one of the American Ragweeds, and a Composite which finds no mention in the Liverpool district floras. Many other interesting plants were observed, but as these are familiar to most of us, and have found mention in accounts of previous meetings in this neighbourhood, it is hardly necessary to mention such.
Leasowe 9 July 1910
The fifth field meeting was held in Cheshire on July 9th, a charming day, when we travelled to Leasowe. This was, or at least supposed to be, a joint meeting in conjunction with the Chester Society of Natural Science and the Warrington Naturalists’ Field Club. We joined at the invitation of the latter, who had undertaken to make all necessary arrangements, and a prominent member had promised to act as leader and meet the party at the station. On arrival at Leasowe, where the Chester party were awaiting us, there was no sign of either the Warrington Society or the person who had undertaken to meet us and act as guide and make all arrangements. No one seemed to have any definite information as to the whereabouts of the missing Warringtonians, so we proceeded towards the coast under the joint leadership of the President and Mr. T. E. Miln, of Chester. On reaching the Common, we observed a small party, including the delinquent leader, who were armed with butterfly nets and apparently busily engaged in the chase of various unfortunate dragonflies and Lepidoptera. Attempts at reminding the theoretical ‘‘leader ’’ of his duties were futile, as he and most of his small party succeeded in keeping a convenient distance away, so we were finally not sorry to leave them behind, with the exception of one or two Warrington naturalists who fell in with the Chester Society and ourselves. Such experiences as this are fortunately unique. We were informed sometime later, on very credible authority, that the “leader ”’ became panic-stricken at the idea of meeting so many botanists and naturalists, and apparently having a more or less exaggerated opinion of their enthusiasm and attainments, took refuge in flight!
We have already noted various facts concerning the flora of this neighbourhood on the occasion of a previous meeting here, and so it is scarcely necessary to repeat many observations. The Buttonweed (Yellow Button) Cotula coronopifolia was extremely luxuriant, and in the height of flowering, and no one could recollect having ever seen it in such fine condition before. A little, white-flowered crowfoot Brackish Water-crowfoot Ranunculus baudotii was seen at its best in the long brackish ditches close to the embankment. Here, too, were two species of Stonewort Bristly Stonewort Chara hispida and Fragile Stonewort Chara globularis (= C. fragilis). A long slender aquatic plant also observed here was Zannichellia palustris, the Horned Pondweed, a species new to some of us. At one point we found a quantity of Bog Pimpernel, which afforded a pretty picture with its neat trailing stems and delicate flesh-coloured blossoms.
Quite a number of examples of the Natterjack were noticed in damp situations behind the embankment. This is a distinctly local amphibian, although not uncommon in several stations in the Liverpool area. It is smaller than the common toad and is easily recognised by the yellowish line running down the back. The toes are only slightly webbed, while the common toad has more or less conspicuously webbed feet. There are other differences, but these simple characters will readily enable one to identify this interesting little amphibian. Amongst several plants found about the embankment were Sea Pearlwort Sagina maritima, a scurvy grass - Danish Scurvygrass Cochlearia danica, and the curious strawberry-headed trefoil - Strawberry Clover Trifolium fragiferum.
Continuing along the coast for most of the way, Hoylake was finally reached, and here tea was obtained. On the way, Mr. J. A. Wheldon found specimens of a lichen which was recently new to science and was first obtained by him on the Lancashire sand-dunes. This diminutive plant, to which the name of Collemopsidium arenisedum (= Arthopyrenia areniseda) has been given by Miss A. Lorrain Smith, appears to have only been found in the counties of Lancashire and Cheshire so far. For the list of Cryptogamia observed at this meeting we are indebted to Mr. Wheldon. Cylindric Beard-moss Didymodon insulanus (= Barbula cylindrica), Tufted Thread-moss Bryum caespiticium (in fruit), Drooping Thread-moss Bryum algovicum (= Bryum pendulum) (in fruit), Heim's Pottia Hennediella heimii (= Pottia heimii) (in fruit), Sand-hill Screw-moss Syntrichia ruraliformis (= Tortula arenicola), Whitish Feather-moss Brachythecium albicans, Yellow Feather-moss Homalothecium lutescens (= Camptothecium lutescens), Fertile Feather-moss Drepanocladus polygamus (= Hypnum polygamum), Lecanora campestris, Common Orange Lichen Xanthoria parietina (= Physcia parietina), Cetraria aculeata, and fungus Fairy Ring Champignon Marasmius oreades.
Stanney Wood and Blackford 20 August 1910
The next excursion was again held in Cheshire on August 20th, when Stanney Wood and Blackford were visited. On arrival at Ellesmere Port a small party of members proceeded to Stanney Wood, under the guidance of the Rev. J. M. New and Mr. G. Loftus. We have to thank Mr. C. N. Watson, of Rake Hall, for courteous permission to investigate this wood, and for kindly placing the services of his keeper at the disposal of the party on this occasion. The flora of this little-known wood scarcely came up to expectations, and Dr. Ellis informs me that perhaps the two most noteworthy Phanerogamia seen here were the Gypsywort Lycopus europaeus and a form of helleborine, which he considers to be Broad-leaved Helleborine Epipactis helleborine (= E. media). A number of fungi were found, and for this list our thanks are due to Dr. Ellis. Plums And Custard Tricholomopsis rutilans (= Tricholoma rutilans), Common Bonnet Mycena galericulata, Milking Bonnet Mycena galopus var. galopus (= M. galopoda), Clitocybe infundibuliformis, Oakbug Milkcap Lactarius quietus, Blackening Brittlegill Russula nigricans, Ochre Brittlegill R. ochroleuca and R. citrina, Sickener R. emetica, Horsehair Parachute Gymnopus androsaceus (= Marasmius androsaceus), Citrine Waxcap Hygrocybe citrinovirens (= Hygrophorus obrusseus), Parrot Waxcap Gliophorus psittacinus (= H. psittacinus), Entoloma? (= Nolanea pascua), Inocybe mixtilis (= Inocybe scabella), Milky Conecap Conocybe apala (= Galera lateritia). Brown Rollrim Paxillus involutus. Dung Roundhead Stropharia stercoraria, Dung Roundhead S. semiglobata, Verdigris Roundhead S. aeruginosa, Chestnut Brittlestem Psathyrella spadicea (= Psathyre spadicea), Weeping Widow Lacrymaria lacrymabunda (= Psilocybe areolata), Magic Mushroom Psilocybe semilanceata. Petticoat Mottlegill Panaeolus papilionaceus var. papilionaceus (= Panaeolus sphinctrinus), Red Cracking Bolete Boletus chrysenteron, Bay Bolete B. badius, Stinkhorn Phallus impudicus, Common Earthball Scleroderma citrinum (= S. vulgare), Dasyscypha calcina? (on Larch), slime mould Arcyria denudata (= A.punicea).
Leaving the wood, the little hamlet of Backford (‘‘the ford by the ridge’’) was reached. Backford Church possesses some interesting associations, and as the Vicar (the Rev. J. M. New) is an ardent archaeologist and naturalist, the party were fortunate in being under his guidance on this occasion. A feature of this old church is the ancient black-letter Bible, bearing the date 1617, and chained to the desk according to the old custom. It is curious to recollect that in the valley below Backford, according to some old historians, there formerly flowed an ancient river, which is said to have united the Mersey and the Dee. Our best thanks are due to the Rev. J. M. New for his kindness to us on this occasion, and his hospitality in inviting the party to tea at Backford Vicarage requires a special acknowledgment.
Llanddulas 3 September 1910
Each year there is usually some field meeting which stands out pre-eminent amongst the rest, and 1910 was no exception. All things taken into account, there can be little question that either Erbistock or Llanddulas must rank first amongst the excursions of the past year. The comparison between the two is perhaps rather invidious and hardly fair, but I think most of those members who were present on both occasions would place Llanddulas first. The seventh field meeting was a day excursion on September 3rd, and the interest and success of this Welsh expedition conclusively showed the advantage and desirability of occasional longer excursions of this kind.
Prettily situated on the Denbigh coast by the mouth of the little River Ddulas. The locality is an ideal one for the botanist or naturalist. Within a comparatively small area one finds shingly shore, clay banks, moorland, limestone cliffs and common, and wooded river banks, each of these possessing a flora of their own.
The shingle on the shore between Llanddulas and Pensarn yielded some acceptable plants. The Yellow Horned-poppy Glaucium flavum was plentiful in places, and the curious and conspicuous long siliqua-like fruits were new to some of the party. The sticky relative of the common groundsel Sticky Groundsel Senecio viscosus was quite at home and equally abundant in similar situations. The Sea Bindweed was also seen, but no flowers were in evidence. The vegetation of this dry shingle afforded an interesting study in adaptation, and as one would expect, was of a distinctly xerophilous type. Amongst other constituents seen here were the Sea Spurge Euphorbia paralias, two species of stonecrop Biting Stonecrop Sedum acre and White Stonecrop S. album, the Spiny Restharrow Ononis spinosa, and the Sea Purslane Honckenya peploides. Here, too, creeping amongst the pebbles, a most unusual situation for it, was the dainty Iivy-leaved Toadflax. By the mouth of the Ddulas we came across the Peppermint and true forget-me-not or Water Forget-me-not Myosotis scorpioides (= M. palustris). At one part of the shore were a few plants of Black Nightshade Solanum nigrum, but we must confess in suspicious company, for close to was garden Canterbury-bells Campanula medium, and some examples of Motherwort Leonurus cardiaca.
Leaving the coast, we struck inland, following the valley of the Ddulas for about a mile and a half, and with Llysfaen hill on our right. This rocky eminence is a portion of the carboniferous limestone range which terminates in the headland of the Great Orme, some nine miles to the north-west. There is a marked similarity in the flora of the two places, which is, of course, of a decidedly calciphilous character. We were very pleased to come across a profusion of that quaint little orchid Autumn Lady's-tresses Spiranthes spiralis (= Spiranthes autumnalis). The flowers are remarkable for their peculiar spiral arrangement, which give the inflorescence a very characteristic appearance. The blossoms, though rather small, are very beautiful, and have a fragrance simulating that of hyacinths. Amongst many interesting species which haunt this limestone hill are the Wild lettuce Great Lettuce Lactuca virosa, which was growing in almost inaccessible situations on the cliffs, Marrubium vulgare (Horehound), the Carline Thistle Carlina vulgaris, and the Spindle tree Euonymus europaeus. The latter was covered with an abundant crop of immature fruit which would doubtless afford a pretty picture later on. Here, too, we observed the Field Gentian Gentianella campestris (= Gentiana campestris), the deep-blue blossoms of which served to remind one of the advent of autumn.
At one place there was a large patch of the slender and tiny- flowered Vervain Verbena officinalis, the sole British representative of its order. This appears to have been a favourite plant with the Druids, by whom it was regarded as being more or less sacred. Anointing with Vervain was considered by them the readiest way of obtaining all that the heart could desire, to keep off fevers, to procure friendship, and the like. Some of the Welsh names for this plant are distinctly suggestive—Cas gan Gythraul (the Fiend’s aversion), Y Dderwen Vendigaid (the blessed oak), and Llysiau’r Hudd (the Enchanter’s plant). In that ancient Welsh work known as Meddygon Myddfai, a quaint production which abounds with interesting plant lore, the following curious recipe is given: - “To Avoid Enemies.” “If one goes to battle, let him seek the Vervain, and keep it in his clothes, and he will escape from his enemies.’’
The Aspen, which was also found at this meeting, possesses a very distinctive local name in some parts of Denbighshire. According to one old Welsh countryman, we were informed—and this has been independently confirmed on further inquiry—that the vernacular name is ‘‘ Tafod y Gwragedd ”;’ in English this would be translated as “Woman’s tongue.”
Eastham Woods 8 October 1910
The last excursion of the session was held at Eastham Woods on October 8th and took the form of a fungus foray. Dr. J. W. Ellis and Mr. H. J. Wheldon, to whom we are indebted for the list of fungi noted at this meeting, acted as mycological recorders. Ninety-four species were observed, which is a very fair number, having regard to the locality and the dry weather which preceded this meeting.
List of Fungi observed at Eastham, October 8th, 1910: -
Honey Fungus Armillaria mellea, Earthy Powdercap Cystoderma amianthinum (= Lepiota amianthina), Rooting Shank Hymenopellis radicata (= Collybia radicata), Spotted Toughshank Rhodocollybia maculata (= C. maculata), Russet Toughshank Gymnopus dryophilus (= C. dryophila), Aromatic Knight Tricholoma lascivum, Common Bonnet Mycena galericulata and M. rugosa, Bleeding Bonnet M. sanguinolenta, Oyster Mushroom Pleurotus ostreatus, Meadow Wax-Cap Cuphophyllus pratensis var. pratensis (= Hygrophorus pratensis), Parrot Waxcap Gliophorus psittacinus (= H. psittacinus), Snowy Wax-Cap Cuphophyllus virgineus var. virgineus (= H. virgineus), Vermilion Waxcap Hygrocybe miniata(= H. miniatus), Slimy Waxcap Gliophorus irrigatus (= H. unguinosus), Russula ochracea, Ochre Brittlegill R. ochroleuca, Blackening Brittlegill R. nigricans, Sickener R. emetica, Fragile Brittlegill R. fragilis, Rosy Brittlegill R. rosea, R. azurea, Charcoal Burner R. cyanoxantha, Geranium Brittlegill R. fellea, Oakbug Milkcap Lactarius quietus, Mild Milkcap L. subdulcis, Clitocybe cenusta?, Deciever Laccaria laccata and Amethyst Deceiver Laccaria amethystina (= var. amythestina), Entoloma pascuum (= Nolanea pascua), Variable Oysterling Crepidotus variabilis (= Claudopus variabilis), Scurfy Twiglet Tubaria furfuracea, Common Conecap Galera tenera, Moss Bell Galerina hypnorum (Galera hypnorum), Conocybe subovalis (= G. ovalis), Star Fibrecap Inocybe asterospora, Brown Rollrim Paxillus involutus, Yellow Fieldcap Bolbitius titubans(= Bolbitius boltoni) ?, Dung Roundhead Stropharia semiglobata and Stropharia stercoraria, Verdigris Roundhead S. aeruginosa, Garland Roundhead S. coronilla, Sulphur Tuft Hypholoma fasciculare, Brick Tuft Hypholoma lateritium (= H. sublateritium), Common Stump Brittlestem Psathyrella piluliformis (=H. hydrophilum),Magic Mushroom Psilocybe semilanceata, Fairy Inkcap Coprinellus disseminatus (= Psathyrella disseminata), Egghead Mottlegill Panaeolus semiovatus var. semiovatus (= Anellaria separata and A. fimiputris), Turf Mottlegill Panaeolus fimicola, Petticoat Mottlegill P. papilionaceus and P. campanulatus, Coprinopsis stercorea (= Coprinus stercorarius), Grey Inkcap Coprinopsis cinerea (= C. fimeitarius), Pleated Inkcap Parasola plicatilis (= C. plicatilis), Shaggy Inkcap C. comatus, Stinkhorn Phallus impudicus, Common Jelly Spot Dacrymyces stillatus, White Spindles Clavaria fragilis (= C. vermicularis), Meadow Coral Clavulinopsis corniculata (= Clavaria muscoides and C. fastigiata), Yellow Stagshorn Calocera viscosa, Common Earthball Scleroderma citrinum (= S. vulgare), Poria vaporaria?, P. quercina?, Turkeytail Trametes versicolor (= Polystictus versicolor), Dryad's Saddle Polyporus squamosus, Birch Polypore Fomitopsis betulina (= P. betulinus), Root Rot Heterobasidion annosum (= Fomes annosus), Flat Oysterling Crepidotus applanatus (= F. applanatus), Beefsteak Fungus Fistulina hepatica, Split Porecrust Schizopora paradoxa (= Irpex obliquus), Grandinia granulosa?, Enveloping Crust Sebacina incrustans (= Soppitiella sebacina), Bleeding Broadleaf Crust Stereum rugosum, Hairy Curtain Crust S. hirsutum, Corticium lacteum, Peniophora cinerea, Wet Rot Coniophora puteana, Trichoderma lignosum?, Coleosporium tussilaginis (= C. sonchi), Dog Vomit Slime Mould Mucilago crustacea (= Spumaria alba), Flowers Of Tan Fuligo septica, Craterium minutum (= C.pedunculatum), Stemonitis fusca, Hymenoscyphus calyculus (= Helotium virgultorum), Cowpat Gem Cheilymenia granulata (= Humara granulata), Ascobolus stercorarius (= A. furfuraceus), Glazed Cup Humaria hemisphaerica (= Lachnea hemispherica), Black Bulgar Bulgaria inquinans, Nettle Rash Leptosphaeria acuta (= Sphaeria acuta), Sycamore Tarspot Rhytisma acerinum, Coral Spot Nectria cinnabarina = Tubercularia vulgaris.