Toadflax

Toadflax (Linaria), a genus of plants of the natural order Scrophularineæ, very closely allied to Snapdragon (q.v.), from which it is distinguished chiefly by the spur at the base of the corolla, and the capsule opening by valves or teeth, not by pores. The species are herbaceous perennials or annuals, natives chiefly of the colder and temperate parts of the Old World, of which about 150 have been described. Some of them are natives of Britain, of which the most common is L. vulgaris, a species with erect stem 1 to 3 feet high, glaucous linear-lanceolate leaves which thickly cover the stem, and terminal spikes of yellow flowers. It grows in hedges, the borders of corn-fields, &c. It possesses purgative and diuretic properties, and a decoction of it is used as a fly-poison; but it is regarded as a troublesome weed by farmers. It has found its way, probably along with grain or other grass seeds, into the United States. A very remarkable monstrosity is sometimes seen in this plant, to which the name Peloria has been given, the flower presenting five spurs and five usually imperfect stamens. L. Cymbalaria, the Ivy-leaved Toadflax, or the Mother of Thousands, a favourite window-plant with cottagers in many parts of Britain, is frequently to be seen clothing old garden-walls.