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In some instances the systematists use a diversity of names to convey exactly the same idea, as if to conceal the monotony of the character, as for instance in the case of the lack of hairs, which is expressed by the varietal names of Papaver dubium glabrum, Arabis ciliata glabrata, Arabis hirsuta glaberrima, Veronica spicata nitens, Amygdalus persica laevis, Paeonia corallina Leiocarpa, &c.
I have inserted the following, as being known to contain the different colours mentioned; but there are many other plants equally productive of this principle that remain quite unnoticed at present. ACANTHUS mollis. BEAR'S-BREECH. This gives a fine yellow, which was in use among the ancients. ACTAEA spicata. BANEBERRY. The juice of the berries affords a deep black, and is fixed with alum.
Diaetetica, p. 64. SPEEDWELL. Veronica spicata. This is used by our common people as a substitute for tea, and is said to possess a somewhat astringent taste, like green tea. SPOTTED HAWKWEED. Hypochaeris maculata. The leaves are eaten as salad, and are also boiled. STINGING-NETTLE. Urtica dioica.
This is a stronger growing species than C. pauciflora and C. spicata, with large leaves averaging 4 inches long, that are light green above and silky on the under sides. The parallel veins of the leaves are very pronounced, while the leaf-stalks, as indeed the young twigs too, are covered with a hairy pubescence.
In fact, I think it is proper that all the species should be considered as such, and never be made use of, either in medicine or otherwise, without great care in their administration. ACTAEA spicata. BANEBERRY. This plant is also considered as a deadly poison; but we have no authentical accounts of its mischievous effects, although Parkinson has mentioned it in these words:
C. PAUCIFLORA is readily distinguished from the former by its more slender growth, smaller leaves, and fewer flowered spikes. Flowers primrose-yellow. C. SPICATA. Japan, 1864. This Japanese shrub is of very distinct appearance, having leaves like those of our common Hazel, and drooping spikes of showy-yellowish, fragrant flowers that are produced before the leaves.
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