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Volume 15, 1882
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Art. XXXV.—The Naturalized Plants of the Auckland Provincial District.

By T. F. Cheeseman, F.L.S., Curator of the Auckland Museum.

[Read before the Auckland Institute, 30th November, 1882.]

The wonderful rapidity with which plants alien to the New Zealand Flora have established themselves in this country, the rate at which they have spread through the length and breadth of the land, and the marked effect that they have produced and doubtless will continue to produce on the indigenous vegetation, are facts so patent that they cannot escape the notice of the most incurious person. And it is a remarkable circumstance that most of these plants are of European origin. A stranger landing at any one of the chief ports in the colony might almost fancy himself to be in a corner of the northern hemisphere, if the appearance of the vegetation were his only guide. The sturdy and irrepressible plants that occupy the waste places and roadsides of a European town meet him on his arrival here; the weeds of the pastures and meadows are mostly the same; the cultivated fields and gardens are invaded by the same unwelcome and troublesome intruders here as there. And when he comes to carry his observations further into the country, and makes acquaintance with its true flora, still he finds, however far he may extend his travels, that there is no corner,

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remote and apparently inaccessible though it may be, into which some of these species of northern origin have not found their way, and thrust out a portion of the original possessors of the soil.

No part of New Zealand is better suited for studying this “replacement of species”—as it is aptly termed by Sir Joseph Hooker—than the district of Auckland. Possibly in portions of the Canterbury Plains the destraction of the native plants and the estabishment of foreign ones in their place may be more complete over large continuous areas than anywhere in Auckland; but this is a consequence of extensive cultivation, coupled with sameness of physical conditions, and the number of species naturalized is comparatively small. The mildness of the northern climate, warm and moist without being too hot, is not only favourable to the common weeds of Northern and Central Europe, some of which exhibit a luxuriance rarely seen in their native country, but allows many plants from warmer climes to become naturalized by their side, so that the total number of species introduced is large indeed. To mention one instance,—the little County of Eden, which includes simply the Auckland Isthmus, and cannot have a greater area than about 25,000 or 30,000 acres, supports nearly 350 naturalized plants, all of spontaneous origin, and maintaining themselves without direct assistance from man; or, as in most cases it would be more correct to say, in spite of his efforts to destroy them. This is a number almost identical with that of the indigenous species of Phænogams found in the same area.

The only attempt hitherto made to catalogue the naturalized plants of Auckland is that of Mr. Kirk, in the Transactions of the New Zealand Institute, vol. ii. In a valuable paper, entitled “On the Naturalized Plants of New Zealand” (but which deals solely with those of Auckland), he enumerates 292 species. From this number, however, it appears to me that 31 must be struck out, either as being indigenous, or incorrectly introduced by previous writers on New Zealand botany, or as being now extinct. This would leave 261 as truly naturalized. In some subsequent papers Mr. Kirk adds a few additional species, raising the number to 283. In the appended catalogue I give the names of 387 species, with particulars of their distribution; 104 being recorded for the first time. I have taken some little trouble in collecting statistics respecting these 387 species, and it will be useful to give a brief abstract before proceeding to discuss why it is that so large a number of foreign plants have been able to establish themselves here and why they should have such an apparent advantage over the native flora.

First as to their origin. Naturalized plants as a rule have wide ranges, and are often found in an indigenous condition (so far as we can judge) over half a continent or more. Whether this is due to naturalization at a remote

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period through the agency of man, direct or indirect, or whether it is that in addition to possessing great flexibility of character and consequent power of adapting themselves to varied conditions, they have also been able to spread widely by natural means of migration, it is now for the most part impossible to say—probably both causes have operated. Their wide ranges, however, make it difficult to state their distribution with exactness, but the following will be found to be a sufficiently close approximation. 280 are natives of Europe, many of them also ranging into temperate Asia and North America, and some into North Africa, but for our purpose it is not important to specify these. 10 species, not European, are from the eastern portion of North America, and 4 are from the western side of the same continent. This will make a total of 294 species introduced from the north temperate zone. From Australia, notwithstanding its nearness to us, we have only received 10; from Chili and the cool portions of South America, 9; from the Cape of Good Hope, 21. The number naturalized from the south temperate zone is thus only 40. Finally, there are 53 species from the subtropical and tropical portions of both hemispheres, most having a very wide distribution.

With respect to the habit and duration of the species, only 31 are trees or shrubs, the remaining 356 being herbaceous. Of this latter number 176 are annual, 28 biennial, 152 perennial. The large proportion of annual species is noteworthy, as in the indigenous flora nearly all the herbaceous plants are of perennial growth.

If it is endeavoured to divide the species into groups according to the nature of their habitats, it will be found that nearly two-thirds fall, in about equal numbers, into three classes: first, weeds of cultivated lands and gardens; second, inhabitants of meadows or fields; third, plants of roadsides or waste places. Of the remaining third a considerable proportion are escapes from gardens, or other plants whose position it is difficult to define at present, and which occupy very various stations: littoral, paludal, sylvestral, etc.

Finally, we find that the species belong to 233 genera, arranged in 60 orders. The orders best represented are,—Gramineœ, with 60 species, Compositœ 51, Leguminosœ 35, Cruciferœ 20, Caryophylleœ 15, Rosaceœ 14. Of the genera no less than 182 are without indigenous representatives in this country, and 16 of the orders are in the same position. The large number of genera into which the species are distributed shows that our naturalized flora is of a very diversified character; and the fact that most of the genera have no indigenous species, proves that naturalized plants, to succeed in any country, need not have any close affinity with the pre-existing inhabitants.

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With the above facts before us, we are better able to enquire into the general subject of the naturalization of plants in New Zealand and to attempt an answer to the question why the native vegetation should apparently be unable to hold its own against the numerous intruders streaming in on every side. In considering the subject, it appears to me most important to bear constantly in mind that the conditions of plant-life now prevailing in New Zealand are in great measure different to those that existed when European voyagers first visited its shores. When Cook landed here the whole country was covered with a dense native vegetation, hardly interfered with by man. The cultivations of the Maoris were small in area, and as they rarely tilled the same plot of ground for many years in succession, preferring to abandon it when the soil showed signs of exhaustion and to make new clearings elsewhere, there was little chance of the establishment and gradual development of a race of indigenous weeds. In fact, it can be roundly said that the New Zealand Flora contained no such class. At that time there were no herbivorous animals of any kind, either wild or domesticated, to graze upon the vegetation, or to interfere with it in any way. Thus no check existed to the growth of many species which can now hardly live in a district where our introduced cattle are abundant. And the repeated burning off, year after year, of large tracts of open country, was then a circumstance almost unknown. The Maori rarely wantonly destroyed the vegetation, and if he used fire in making his new clearings generally took precautions that it should not spread further than was absolutely required. It is hardly necessary to dwell longer on this point; for all must admit that the advent of European settlers and the colonization of the country have brought into operation a set of conditions injurious to both the indigenous fauna and flora. The chief of these conditions may be conveniently grouped under three heads:—first, the actual destruction of the vegetation by the settlers to make room for their cultivations, or in the construction of roads, or in the cutting down of the forests for timber, etc., etc.:—second, the introduction of sheep, cattle and horses and their spread over the greater part of the country:—third, the practice, now very generally followed, of burning off the vegetation in the open districts at regular intervals.

If the above facts are duly considered there will not be so much cause for wonder in the introduction and rapid spread of so many foreign plants. For instance, it might be expected that the weeds of our corn-fields and pastures—which now form such an important and conspicuous element in the naturalized Flora—would be almost wholly composed of introductions from abroad. The native Flora possessed few plants suitable for the places they have taken, and these few could hardly compete with a chance of

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success against species that have from time immemorial occupied the cultivations of man, and whose best adapted varieties have been rigorously selected. The introduced weeds flourish and multiply because they have an environment suited to them and to which they have been modified; the native ones fail because the conditions have become altogether different to those they had been accustomed to.

Similarly it was to be expected that foreign plants would in some degree displace the indigenous ones in districts grazed over but not actually cultivated. Many native species will not bear repeated cropping, and soon decrease in numbers when cattle or sheep are brought in. Their places will, therefore, be taken by plants that are indifferent to this, or escape by reason of being unpalatable. It hardly needs pointing out that many of our introduced species are in this category. The common thistle, for instance, is protected by its prickly leaves; the docks and buttercups, and many labiate plants, are rejected by stock, save when food is scarce, on account of their unpleasant tast; while most grasses and some leguminous plants may be eaten down repeatedly without suffering much permanent injury. It is obvious that these species would have a good chance of spreading if introduced into a district where sheep and cattle are numerous. At the same time it must be remembered that any native plants possessing similar advantages would also increase; and in many cases this has actually taken place. The spread of such indigenous plants as Poa australis and Discaria in the river valleys in the interior of Nelson and Canterbury; of Cassinia on the shores of Cook Straits; and of some grasses (as Danthonia semiannularis and Microlœna stipoides) in Auckland, are well-known examples, and it would be easy to enumerate more.

But although we may safely credit the changed conditions of plant-life with being a powerful reason for the spread of naturalized plants in New Zealand, it is impossible to consider it as the sole explanation. For we find that not a few species have penetrated into localities where cultivation and cattle are alike unknown, and where man himself is a rare visitant; where, in fact, the conditions are still unchanged. This is the most interesting part of the subject, for it proves conclusively, as remarked by Mr. Darwin, that the indigenous plants of any district are not necessarily those best suited for it. In most cases it is impossible to assign any obvious reason for the fact that these intruders should be able to thrust on one side the native vegetation; but it is significant that all, or nearly all, are common and widely distributed in their native countries; in short, are predominant species; and that they have followed almost everywhere the footsteps of man, being as extensively naturalized in many other countries as in New Zealand. We may, therefore, suppose that by long-continued

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competition with other species, in different localities and in different climates, they have gained a vigour of constitution and a faculty of adapting themselves to a great variety of conditions which enable them to readily overcome plants that have not been so advantageously modified.

This supposition will also throw some light on the curious fact that the vast majority of our plants are of northern origin. It is now generally admitted by geologists that the present continents are of immense antiquity, and that there has been no great alteration in the relative proportions of land and water during vast geological epochs. Mr. Darwin therefore argues that as the northern hemisphere has probably always possessed the most extensive continuous land area, so the wonderfully aggressive and colonizing power of its plants at the present time is due to development where the competition of species has been the most severe and long continued, owing to the presence of facilities for natural migration. The plants of the comparatively isolated countries of the southern hemisphere have not been subjected to the same degree of competition, and consequently could not be so advantageously modified.

It is difficult to predict the ultimate result of the struggle between the invaders and the natives. Many naturalists believe that the foreign species will succeed in displacing and exterminating a large section of the indigenous flora. Mr. Travers, for instance, goes so far as to say273 —“Such, in effect, is the activity with which the introduced plants are doing their work, that I believe if every human being were at once removed from the islands for even a limited number of years, looking at the matter from a geological point of view, the introduced would succeed in displacing the indigenous fauna and flora.” Also, in his presidential address to the Wellington Philosophical Society,† he states:—Indeed, I have no doubt, from the present comparative rarity of many plants which were formerly found in abundance in such districts” (the sub-alpine portions of Nelson), “that in a few years our only knowledge of them will be derived from the dried specimens in our herbaria.” On the other hand, Mr. Kirk, who has paid special attention to the naturalization of plants in New Zealand, and whose views are therefore entitled to careful consideration, takes a much more hopeful view of the future of the native flora. In a paper on the naturalized plants of Port Nicholson,‡ he says:—At length a turning-point is reached, the invaders lose a portion of their vigour and become less encroaching, while the indigenous plants find the struggle less severe and gradually recover a portion of their lost ground, the result being the gradual amalgamation of those kinds best adapted to hold their own in the

[Footnote] * Trans. N.Z. Inst., vol. ii., p. 312.

[Footnote] † Trans. N.Z. Inst., vol. iv., p. 359.

[Footnote] ‡ Trans. N.Z. Inst., vol. x., p. 363.

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struggle for existence with the introduced forms, and the restriction of those less favourably adapted to habitats which afford them special advantages.” Further on in the same article Mr. Kirk combats the view that the majority of our native plants will become extinct, stating that the particular species for which this danger is to be feared might almost be counted upon one's fingers.

My own views on this difficult question are much nearer to Mr. Kirk's than to those of Mr. Travers. I can certainly find little evidence in support of the opinion that a considerable proportion of the native flora will become extinct. Even in isolated localities of limited area, like Madeira and St. Helena, where there is little variety of climate and physical conditions, and where the native plants have been subjected to far more disadvantageous influences, and to a keener competition with introduced forms, than in New Zealand, the process of naturalization has not gone so far as to stamp out the whole of the indigenous vegetation, although great and remarkable changes have been effected, and many species have become extinct. I fail to see why it is assumed that a greater effect will be produced in New Zealand, with its diversified physical features and many varieties of soil, situation, and climate. Surely its far-stretching coast-line, bold cliffs, and extensive sand-dunes, its swamps and moorlands, its lofty mountains and widespreading forests, will afford numerous places of refuge for its plants until sufficient time has been allowed for the gradual development of varieties better suited to the changed conditions. No doubt some few species will become extinct; but these will be mostly plants whose distribution was local and confined even when Europeans first arrived here; and probably all will be species that have for some time been slowly tending towards extinction, and whose final exit has thus only been hastened. I cannot call to mind a single case of a plant known to be widely distributed when settlement commenced that is at present in any danger of extinction. Species have been banished from cultivated districts, of course, but they are still abundant in other situations, and probably there will always be a sufficient area of unoccupied and uncultivated lands to afford them a secure home.

Speaking generally, I am inclined to believe that the struggle between the naturalized and the native floras will result in a limitation of the range of the native species rather than in their actual extermination. We must be prepared to see many plants once common become comparatively rare, and possibly a limited number—I should not estimate it at more than a score or two—may altogether disappear, to be only known to us in the future by the dried specimens preserved in our museums.

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Catalogue of Naturalized Plants observed in the Provincial District of Auckland.

(Those species not previously recorded are marked with an asterisk.)

Ranunculaceæ.

Rannunclusacris, L. Meadows in several localities, but not common. (Europe.)

"repens, L. Damp pastures and waste places. Whangarei; vicinity of Auckland; Waikato district, etc. (Europe.)

* " bulbosus, L. Plentiful in meadows, by roadsides, etc., throughout the provincial district. (Europe.)

* " hirsutus, Curtis. (R. philonotis, Ehr.) Plentiful near Auckland, and in many of the country districts southwards to the Waikato. This species has increased very largely during the last five or six years. (Europe.)

" parviflorus, L. Of common occurrence in pastures, and waste places. Auckland Isthmus; Thames; Coromandel; Waikato; etc. It must not be confounded with the R. parviflorus var. australis of the Handbook, which is indigenous in the Auckland district, and which to me appears to have good claims to rank as a distinct species. (Europe.)

* " muricatus, L. Local. Bay of Islands; waste places near Auckland; Onehunga. (Europe.)

" pusillus, Poir. Recorded by Mr. Buchanan from the island of Kawau. I suspect some mistake, as the true R. pusillus is a North American plant, and not at all likely to occur in New Zealand. (N. America.)

* Aquilegia vulgaris, L. Occasionally seen as a garden escape, but is by no means common. (Europe.)

* Nigella damascena, L. A garden escape in light soils near Auckland. (S. Europe.) One or two species of the allied genus Delphinium are also frequently seen, but they do not permanently establish themselves.

Papaveraceæ.

Papaver rhœas, L. Cultivated fields, not common. Mongonui; Auckland Isthmus; near Alexandra. (Europe.)

* " somniferum, L. A garden escape. Devonport; Ponsonby; etc. (Europe.)

Fumaria officinalis, L. Has become a troublesome weed in light soils in some parts of the Auckland Isthmus. (Europe.)

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* Eschscholtzia californica, Cham. An escape from gardens in light dry soils. Devonport; Mt. Eden; covering the greater part of a field at Panmure in 1879. (California.)

Cruciferæ.

Nasturtium officinale, Br. Now abundant in streams and swamps throughout the district, and attaining a size unknown in Europe. (Europe.)

Barbarea prœcox, Br. This is frequently seen in all the settled districts, but is nowhere very plentiful. (Europe.)

Alyssum maritimum, L. Beach at Kororareka, Bay of Islands; Gisborne, plentiful in January, 1880. (S. Europe.)

Cochlearia armoracia, L. Maintains itself in deserted gardens, but can hardly be considered truly naturalized. (Europe.)

Sisymbrium officinale, L. Waste places, roadsides, etc., pretty generally distributed. (Europe.)

" pannonicum, Jacq. I take this from Mr. Kirk's list. (Trans. ii., p. 135.) I have never seen it. (Europe.)

* Camelina sativa, L. Local. Remuera and one or two other places in the vicinity of Auckland. (Europe.)

Brassica oleracea, L. Plentiful in littoral situations, particularly in the northern portions of the district. (Europe.)

" campestris, L. This, with its sub-species B. rapa and B. napus, is plentiful everywhere in cultivated ground. (Europe.)

"nigra, Boiss. (Sinapis, L.) Waste places near Auckland, scarce. (Europe.)

"sinapistrum, Boiss. (Sinapis arvensis, L.) A weed in cultivated fields, tolerably frequent. (Europe.)

*" alba, Boiss. (Sinapis, L.) Remuera; cornfields near Otahuhu. (Europe.)

Capsella bursa-pastoris, DC. Frequent through the settled portions of the district. (Europe.)

Senebiera coronopus, Poir. Waste places, not common. Bay of Islands; Thames; Onehunga. (Europe.)

" didyma, Pers. Throughout the district, most abundant, especially in waste places near the sea. (Temperate South America?)

Lepidium ruderale, L. Open situations near the sea, and in waste places throughout the Waikato district. (Europe.)

* " smithii, Hook. Pastures near Alexandra. (Europe.)

" sativum, L. A garden escape. Hardly naturalized, though common in a cultivated condition. (Europe.)

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* Rapistrum rugosum, Berg. In the summer of 1876 this plant appeared in great abundance on the Barrack Hill, Auckland, now known as the Albert Park. The grading and laying out of the park during the past year has nearly destroyed it, but a few specimens still linger in the adjoining streets and unoccupied allotments. (Europe.)

Raphanus sativus, L. This has thoroughly established itself in littoral situations, on sand-hills, etc. Mongonui; Bay of Islands; near Auckland; Thames; Raglan, etc. (Europe.)

Resedaceæ.

* Reseda luteola, L. A garden weed in a few localities near Auckland. (Europe.)

Violarieæ.

* Viola tricolor, L., var. arvensis. Near Auckland, scarce. (Europe.)

Polygaleæ.

Polygala myrtifolia, L. A garden escape, but well established at Northcote and several other places in the vicinity of Auckland. (Cape of Good Hope.)

Caryophylleæ.

* Dianthus armeria, L. Fields near Alexandra and other places in the Waikato. (Europe.)

Saponaria vaccaria, L. A garden escape near Auckland. (Europe.)

Silene inflata, Sm. Near Otahuhu; Hamilton; Matamata. (Europe.)

" anglica, L. A common weed throughout the district. The variety quinquevulnera is the most abundant. (Europe.)

* " noctiflora, L. Fields at Matamata, February, 1880. (Europe.)

Lychnis flos-cuculi, L. Pastures at Whangarei, scarce. (Europe.)

" githago, Linn. A weed in cornfields, often seen. (Europe.)

Cerastium glomeratum, Thuill. A common weed throughout the district. (Europe.)

"triviale, Link. Abundant with the preceding. (Europe.)

Stellaria media, L. Universally distributed throughout the district, especially in rich light soils. (Europe.)

* " graminea, L. Panmure; and the larva fields around Mt. Wellington. (Europe.)

Arenaria serpyllifolia, L. Devonport; Penrose; Panmure; and other places in the vicinity of Auckland. (Europe.)

Sagina apetala, L. North Head, Waitemata, where it has regularly appeared every spring, for several years, on rocks just above high-water mark. Penrose; Onehunga; Newmarket; etc. (Europe.)

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Spergula arvensis, L. A common weed in cultivated fields. (Europe.)

Polycarpon tetraphyllum, L. A common roadside weed, also copiously naturalized on sand-hills in the north. (Europe.)

Portulacaceæ.

Portulaca oleracea, L. A troublesome weed in gardens in light soil. (S. Europe and Tropics.)

*Calandrinia caulescens, H.B.K. I am indebted to Mr. Luke for specimens of this from the vicinity of Otahuhu, where in 1881 it appeared in abundance in a freshly-sown grass field. (Peru.)

* " sp. A small white-flowered species of this genus, which I have been unable to identify, has become plentiful in stony places by the South Road near Penrose, and thence to Onehunga. (S. America?)

Hypericineæ.

Hypericum androsœmum, L. A garden escape. Papakura; near Alexandra. (Europe.)

" perforatum, L. Near Auckland; Helensville; common in many localities in the Waikato and Upper Thames districts, especially at Matamata. (Europe.)

" humifusum, L. Whangarei; Remuera; St. John's College; Waitakerei; and other localities near Auckland. Usually prefers stiff clay soils. (Europe.)

Malvaceæ.

Malva sylvestris, L. Waste places near Auckland; and at the Thames; rare. (Europe.)

" rotundifolia, L. Vicinity of Auckland; Otahuhu; Ngaruawahia; Hamilton; etc. (Europe.)

* " verticillata, L. In immense abundance in and near Auckland, often covering unoccupied allotments, waste places, etc., with a dense growth 3–4 feet high. Also plentiful at the Thames, Coromandel, and in most of the country townships. (Europe.)

* " parviflora, L. Waste places near Auckland, but not common. (Europe.)

Modiola multifida, Mœnch. Plentiful in pastures and by roadsides in all cultivated districts. It must have been an early introduction, for it was nearly as abundant and as widely distributed in 1863 as now. (Eastern states of North America.)

Lavatera arborea,L. An occasional garden escape.Panmure;Onehungea; Manukau Heads;Hamilton. (S. Europe.)

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Lineæ.

Linum usitatissimum, L. An escape from cultivation in a few localities. (Europe.)

" marginale, A. Cunn. Abundant throughout the district, especially in meadows and by roadsides. Considered to be indigenous by Mr. Kirk. (Australia.)

* " gallicum, L. Near Lake Pupuke; vicinity of Auckland; Onehunga. Not common; first seen in 1876. (S. Europe.)

Geraniaceæ.

Pelargonium quercifolium, Ait. An occasional garden escape. (Cape.)

* Geranium robertianum, L. A few plants of this were seen at Devonport three years ago, but it has apparently died out. (Europe.)

Erodium cicutarium, L. A common plant by roadsides and in waste places. (Europe.)

" moschatum, L. An abundant weed, especially in light soils. (Europe.)

" maritimum, L. In littoral situations. Mongonui; Bay of Islands; Waiwera. (Europe.)

* Oxalis variabilis, Lindl. Frequently establishes itself in the vicinity of gardens. (Cape.)

* " cernua, Thunb. This species has become a troublesome weed in gardens near Auckland, particularly in the large nursery establishments of Messrs. J. Mason and D. Hay. Its numerous tubers make it difficult to eradicate. (Cape.)

* " compressa, Thunb. Occasionally seen with the preceding, but not common. (Cape.)

* Tropœolum majus, L. A common garden escape, especially near Auckland. (Peru.)

Ampelideæ.

Vitis vinifera, L. Often lingers for many years in deserted gardens, old Maori cultivations, etc. (Tropics.)

Sapindaceæ.

* Melianthus major, L. A garden escape. Near Mt. Eden; Tararu (Thames); etc. (Cape.)

Leguminosæ.

Podalyria sericea, Br. A common garden plant. It is included in Mr. Kirk's list, but I have never seen it except in actual cultivation. (Cape.)

Ulex europœus, L. Plentiful througbout the whole district, and in many localities exceedingly troublesome. (Europe.)

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Cytisus scoparius, Link. Near Papakura; Alexandra; Matamata; etc. (Europe.)

Medicago sativa, L. Cultivated fields, not common. (Europe.)

" lupulina, L. Waste places and fields, tolerably frequent throughout the district. (Europe.)

" denticulata, Willd. Waste places and pastures, common throughout the district. This species and the following often monopolize many of the fields near Auckland, especially where the soil is light and rich. (Europe.)

" maculata, Sibth. Generally distributed. (Europe.)

Melilotus officinalis, L. Fields and waste places, not so common as the following. (Europe.)

" arvensis, Wall. Plentiful, especially in waste grounds near the sea. (Europe.)

* Trifolium arvense, L. A few plants noticed in a field near Otahuhu in December, 1876. Not since observed. (Europe.)

* " incarnatum, L. Occasionally seen in pastures, especially in the Waikato. (Europe.)

" pratense, L. Pastures and roadsides, common. (Europe.)

" medium, L. Pastures, etc., not so common as the preceding. (Europe.)

* " scabrum, L. Beach at Devonport; abundant in December, 1880. (Europe.)

" glomeratum, L. Fields and roadsides throughout the district. (Europe.)

* " hybridum, L. Clover fields in the Waikato, and in other localities. (Europe.)

" repens, L. Fields and roadsides, universally distributed throughout the district. (Europe.)

* " resupinatum, L. Mongonui Harbour and shores of Doubtless Bay, abundant. I am also indebted to Mr. Esam for specimens obtained near Helensville. (Europe.)

" procumbens, L. Not uncommon in meadows in all the cultivated districts. (Europe.)

" minus, Sm. Abundant throughout the district. This mixes more freely with the indigenous vegetation than any other species of Trifolium, spreading along the sides of gullies, etc. (Europe.)

Lotus corniculatus, L. Pastures and roadsides, rather local at present, but increasing. (Europe.)

" major, Scop. Remuera; near the Hunua railway station. (Europe.)

* " angustissimus, L. Remuera; first seen in 1881. (Europe.)

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Psoralea pinnata, L. Included in Mr. Kirk's list. I have only seen it in cultivation in gardens. (Cape.)

Indigofera viscosa, Lam. An occasional garden escape near Auckland. (Tropics.)

Robinia pseud-acacia, L. Copiously naturalized in many places in the Waikato country, forming large groves. Near Taupiri it has established itself in places for several miles on the western side of the river. (United States.)

Vicia sativa, L. Not uncommon in cultivated districts throughout the district. (Europe.)

"tetrasperma, Mœnch. A common and troublesome weed throughout the district, from the North Cape to Poverty Bay. (Europe.)

" hirsuta, Koch. Bay of Islands; vicinity of Auckland, and southwards to the Waikato, but by no means common. (Europe.)

* Lens esculenta, Gr. & Godr. This has become abundantly naturalized in the Auckland Domain, having doubtless escaped from some garden in the vicinity. (S. Europe.)

Lathyrus odoratus, L. Occasionally establishes itself near gardens, but is not likely to become permanently naturalized. (S. Europe.)

* " latifolius, L. An occasional garden escape. (S. Europe.)

Dolichos lignosus, L. Spreads in neglected gardens, etc., but can hardly be looked at in the light of a naturalized plant. (Tropical Asia.)

Acacia dealbata, Link. This increases by means of suckers in neglected plantations, etc., and in some localities is fairly established. (Australia.)

Albizzia lophantha, Willd. This was formerly largely planted about the mission stations and Maori settlements, and as it springs up readily from seed, has in many cases formed large groves. (Australia.)

Rosaceæ.

Amygdalus persica, L. Deserted Maori plantations, etc., and often appearing spontaneously in a variety of situations. (Central Asia.)

Prunus cerasus, L. Maintains itself in deserted Maori plantations and orchards, in a few cases forming small groves. (S. Europe.)

Spirœa salicifolia, Willd. Included in Mr. Kirk's list. I have only seen it where actually planted. (Europe.)

Rubus idœus, L. An escape from cultivation, but well established in a few localities. Lake Pupuke; Hunua; near Drury, etc. (Europe.)

" fruticosus, L. Waste places, hedges, roadsides, etc. Now common in most districts, and rapidly increasing. Several of the subspecies are introduced, R. discolor, W. and N., being perhaps the most frequent. (Europe.)

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Fragaria vesca, L. Both species are frequently seen as escapes from cultivation. (Europe.)

" elatior, Ehr.

* Potentilla reptans, L. Near Hamilton, Waikato; a few plants only observed in 1879. (Europe.)

Alchemilla arvensis, L. In cultivated fields and dry pastures. Vicinity of Auckland; Coromandel; Ngaruawahia, Raglan. (Europe.)

* Poterium sanguisorba, L. Dry pastures near Auckland, and in the Waikato. Not common, and perhaps intentionally sown in the localities in which I have noticed it. (Europe).

Rosa rubiginosa, L. Abundantly naturalized throughout the district, especially in the light pumiceous soils of the Upper Waikato and Taupo districts. (Europe.)

" canina, L. Hedges and waste places in the vicinity of Auckland, etc. (Europe.)

Rosa multiflora, L. Often planted for hedges, and in favourable situations spreads considerably. (China.)

" indica, L. A garden escape. (China.)

Crassulaceæ.

* Tillœa (Bulliarda) trichotoma, E. and L. (?). Sides of the South Road, near Penrose, and spreading rapidly on the lava fields around Mount Smart. I am doubtful as to the identification, the descriptions in the “Flora Capensis” and in De Candolle's “Prodromus,” the only ones to which I have access, being very short and meagre. (Cape.)

Lythrarieæ.

Lythrum hyssopifolium, L. An abundant plant throughout the district, in moist places, ditches, etc. (Europe.)

" graefferi, Ten. Local. Remuera; abundant near Ngaruawahia; Thames. (Europe.)

Onagrarieæ.

* Œnothera biennis, L. Not common. Near Auckland; waste places about Hamilton; abandoned Maori cultivations at Matamata. (N. America.)

" stricta, L. Common in light soils throughout most parts of the district. Very partial to sandy flats near the sea. (N. America.)

*" tetraptera, Cav. A garden escape in one or two localities near Auckland. First seen in 1878. (West. N. America.)

Cucurbitaceæ.

Citrullus vulgaris, Schrad. Often of spontaneous origin about Maori cultivations, but never permanently establishes itself. (Tropics.)

– 283 –

Lagenaria vulgaris, L. This is the “hue” of the Maoris, doubtless introduced by them, and still cultivated in many of their settlements. As a naturalized plant it is in precisely the same position as the preceding species. (Tropics.)

Ficoideæ.

* Mesembryanthemum edule, L. Naturalized on the sandy beach at Kohimarama, Auckland Harbour; doubtless originally an outcast from some garden in the vicinity. (Cape.)

Umbelliferæ.

* Bupleurum rotundifolium, L. Vicinity of Auckland, where it has appeared as a weed in a few large market-gardens. (Europe.)

* Conium maculatum, L. A few plants of this were observed in some waste ground at the Thames in 1880; but in a late visit to the locality I did not observe it. (Europe.)

Apium graveolens, L. Deserted gardens and waste places. Brackish-water swamps between the Thames and Piako rivers, a situation where it will probably spread. (Europe.)

" eeptophyllum, A.DC. Mongonui township; Russell (Bay of Islands); Kawau Island (T. Kirk); streets of Auckland; near Otahuhu, etc. Considered by Mr. Kirk to be indigenous, an opinion with which I cannot agree. (Australia.)

* Ammi majus, L. Rare at present, but likely to spread. Remuera; Auckland Domain. (Europe.)

Larum petroselinum, Benth. (Petroselinum sativum, Hoffm.) An escape from cultivation, but plentiful in several localities, as on the lavafields round Mount Eden, etc. (Europe.)

Pimpinella saxifraga, L. I take this from Mr. Kirk's list. I have not myself seen it in a naturalized condition. (Europe.)

Scandix pecten-veneris, L. Waste places about Auckland, not at all common. (Europe.)

Fœniculum vulgare, Gærtn. Roadsides and waste places, deserted gardens, etc. Of common occurrence. (Europe.)

Peucedanum sativum, Benth. (Pastinaca, L.) A garden escape in a few localities. (Europe.)

Daucus carota, L. Not uncommon in pastures and meadows throughout the district. (Europe.)

Caucalis nodosa, Scop. Waste places, local, Whangarei; vicinity of Auckland; Thames. (Europe.)

Araliaceæ.

* Hedera helix, L. Spreads occasionally in plantations and gardens, but can hardly be considered as naturalized. (Europe.)

– 284 –

Caprifoliaceæ.

Sambucus nigra, L. Often planted for hedges, etc., and sometimes spreads. (Europe.)

Rubiaceæ.

Galium aparine, L. Waste places, hedges, roadsides, etc., plentiful in most localities, and increasing. (Europe.)

* Galium parisiense, L. Fields at Remuera, rare. (Europe.)

Sherardia arvensis, L. Generally distributed through the cultivated districts. (Europe.)

Valerianeæ.

* Centranthus ruber, DC. Occasionally seen as a garden escape. Mongonui; Thames; Ponsonby. (Europe.)

Valerianella olitoria, Mœnch. Waste places and roadsides. Orakei native settlement; Mount Albert; near Hamilton. (Europe.)

Dipsaceæ.

* Dipsacus sylvestris, L. Tauranga; not uncommon in January, 1880. I am also indebted to Mr. Will for specimens gathered at Pakari. (Europe.)

Scabiosa atropurpurea, L. A common garden escape in light soils. (Tropical Asia.)

*" (Knautia) arvensis, L. A few years ago this appeared in abundance in a cultivated field at Remuera, but has since nearly died out. (Europe.)

Compositæ.

Bellis perennis, L. Plentiful in pastures throughout the district, and increasing yearly. (Europe.)

Erigeron canadensis, L. A common plant through the entire district. Probably one of the earliest introductions into New Zealand. (N. America.)

" linifolius, Willd. (Conyza ambigua, DC.) In several localities. Northern Wairoa; Whangarei; Matamata, etc. (Tropics.)

Xanthium spinosum, L. Waste places and roadsides in the vicinity of Auckland; and in the Waikato. It nowhere shows signs of becoming so abundant and troublesome as in certain parts of Australia. (Chili.)

Siegesbeckia orientalis, L. Warm dry soils, not common. Bay of Islands; Whangarei; Northern Wairoa; vicinity of Auckland; Raglan. This must have been an early introduction, for it was more plentiful in 1864 than at present. (Tropics.)

Eclipta alba, Huask. Included in the list of naturalized plants given in the “Handbook” (under the name of E. erecta). I have not seen it. (Tropics.)

– 285 –

Wedelia biflora, DC. The same remarks apply. (Tropics.)

Bidens pilosa, L. On cliffs and light dry soils, not uncommon. Perhaps a true native. (Tropics.)

Achillea millefolium, L. In pastures and by roadsides in most cultivated districts, but nowhere very abundant. (Europe.)

Anthemis arvensis, L. Waste places, roadsides, and fields; a common weed in most localities. (Europe.)

*" cotula, L. Waste places near Auckland. (Europe.)

" nobilis, L. Included in Mr. Kirk's list. I have not seen it except in a cultivated condition. (Europe.)

Chrysanthemum leucanthemum, L. Plentiful throughout the district, and becoming a troublesome weed on stiff soils. (Europe.)

"segetum, L. Local. Cultivated fields at Remuera, and near Otahuhu. (Europe.)

" (Pyrethrum) inodorum, L. Fields on the Auckland Isthmus and elsewhere, not common. (Europe.)

Matricaria chamomilla, L. Fields and roadsides, sparsely scattered over the cultivated portions of the district. (Europe.)

"discoidea, DC. In immense abundance in waste places about Auckland, and along most lines of road into the interior. (North America.)

* Tanacetum vulgare, L. A few plants observed in a lane near Howick. (Europe.)

* Soliva anthemifolia, R. Br. Alluvial flats by the Northern Wairoa River, near Dargaville and Mangawhare. (Australia.)

* "pterosperma, Less.? Rangiriri and near Ngaruawahia; first seen in January, 1879. I am not quite certain about the identification. (S. America.)

Artemisia absinthium, L. An occasional garden escape. Northern Wairoa; vicinity of Auckland; Maori settlements at Matamata. (Europe.)

Senecio vulgaris, L. A common weed in rich soils throughout the district. (Europe.)

* "sylvaticus, L. Near Pukekohe; Raglan. (Europe.)

"mikanoides, Otto. (Harv. et Sond., Flora Capensis, 3, p. 402). Senecio scandens, DC., non Cacalia scandens, Thunb. A common garden escape, now well established in waste places, etc., near Auckland and elsewhere. (Cape.)

† Calendula officinalis, L. A garden escape near Auckland, etc. (Europe.)

Osteospermum moniliferum, L. Recorded by Mr. Kirk. I have not seen it in a naturalized state. (Cape.)

– 286 –

Cryptostemma calendulacea, Br. Light dry soils from Auckland to Waikato; plentiful, but not so abundant as it was four or five years ago. (Cape.)

* Carduus pycnocephalus, Jacq. Near Ellerslie; plentiful in one field and by the adjoining road. (Europe.)

Cincus lanceolatus, L. Throughout the district, often an exceedingly troublesome weed in newly-cultivated rich soils, bush clearings, etc., but seldom long occupying any one locality. (Europe.)

Silybum marianum, Gærtn. Bay of Islands, most abundant. Vicinity of Auckland, but rather scarce. Abundant in the vicinity of Tauranga. (Europe.)

Centaurea nigra, L. Fields and roadsides, occasionally seen. (Europe.)

" calcitrapa, L. Waste places about Auckland, rare. (Europe.)

" solstitialis, L. Waste places, roadsides, and sandy shores; spreading fast, especially in the Waikato. (Europe.)

Cichorium intybus, L. Fields in all the cultivated districts. (Europe.)

* Tolpis umbellata, L. In abundance between Penrose and Panmure, but not observed elsewhere. First seen in 1868. (S. Europe.)

Lapsana communis, L. A common weed in pastures in all the cultivated districts. (Europe.)

Picris echioides, L. (Helminthia, Gærtn.) Fields and waste places, not uncommon. (Europe.)

Crepis virens, L. Waste and cultivated grounds, pretty generally distributed. (Europe.)

"fœtida, L. Fields on the Auckland Isthmus. (Europe.)

" taraxicifolia, Thuill. Remuera; Whau; near Cambridge. (Europe.)

*" setosa, Haller. Remuera; abundant in one field for several years past. (Europe.)

Hypochœris radicata, L. Universally distributed throughout the district; and perhaps quite as abundant as any naturalized plant. (Europe.)

" glabra. Not nearly so plentiful as the preceeding. (Europe.)

Leontodon(Thrincia) hirtus, L. Vicinity of Auckland, but not plentiful. (Europe.)

* "(Apargia) hispidus, L. Pastures at Remuera, and at Epsom; rare. (Europe.)

"(Apargia)autumnalis, L. Panmure; Otahuhu; near Alexandra. (Europe.)

Taraxacum officinale, Wigg. Truly native; but naturalized forms are the only ones that I have seen in the Auckland district. (Europe.)

– 287 –

Sonchus arvensis, L. Cultivated fields, etc. (Europe.)

"oleraceus, L. Everywhere in cultivated soils. This is doubtless in some of its forms indigenous, but others have been introduced. (Europe.)

Tragopogon porrifolius, L. In several localities on the Auckland Isthmus, but'not plentiful. (Europe.)

"pratensis, L., var. minor. Included in Mr. Kirk's list. I have not seen it. (Europe.)

Epacrideæ.

Epacris microphylla, Br. Karaka Flats, between Waiuku and Drury, A. T. Urquhart. See Trans. N.Z. Inst., xiv., p. 364. (Australia.)

Primulaceæ.

Anagallis arvensis, L. A common weed throughout the district. (Europe.)

Apocynaceæ.

Vinca major, L. A garden escape, but now plentifully established in waste places, fields, etc., and increasing. (S. Europe.)

Asclepiadeæ.

Asclepias nivea, L. An escape from gardens near Auckland. (Tropical N. America.)

Gentianeæ.

Erythrœa centaurium, L. Generally distributed in all soils and situations, and often mixing freely with the indigenous vegetation. (Europe.)

Polemoinaceæ.

* Collomia coccinea, Lehm. Has been seen as a garden escape in one or two localities near Auckland. (Chili.)

Gilia (Navarretia) squarrosa, Hk. Arn. Not uncommon in the Waikato country. (California.)

Boraginaceæ.

* Borago officinalis, L. Waste places on the Auckland Isthmus, rare. (Europe.)

* Myosotis palustris, With., var strigulosa. Vicinity of Auckland; Motuihi Island. (Europe.)

* "arvensis, Hoffm. Observed in one locality at Whangarei. (Europe.)

Lithospermum arvensis, L. Fields and waste places near Auckland; Panmure; Ohaupo; Alexandra. (Europe.)

Echium vulgare, L. Matamata, abundant. Near Hamilton. (Europe.)

* "plantagineum, L. Has recently appeared in one or two localities near Auckland. (Europe.)

– 288 –

Convolvulaceæ.

Ipomœa, batatas, L. Deserted Maori plantations, etc., often lingering for many years. (Tropics.)

Cuscuta epithymum, Murr., var. trifolii. Not uncommon in clover fields in the Waikato district, where it first appeared. (S. Europe.)

Solanaceæ.

Lycopersicum esculentum, Mill. A garden escape of short duration. (Tropical America.)

Solanum tuberosum, L. Often lingers for a time in fields where it has been cultivated. (S. America.)

*"marginatum, L.f. A garden outcast near Auckland. A large clump existed for many years in Alten Road, but is now nearly destroyed. (Tropical Asia and Africa.)

"sodomœum, L. Common on the volcanic hills of the Auckland Isthmus, etc., and also noticed at Mongonui, Bay of Islands, and in the Waikato. (S. Europe and N. Africa.)

* "auriculatum, Ait. Noticed in one or two places about Auckland; and I have received specimens from Mahurangi collected by Mr. Moat. (Tropical S. America.)

Physalis peruviana, L. Warm sheltered localities through the district, but not so common now as fifteen or twenty years back. (Tropical S. America.)

"alkekengi, L. Included in Mr. Kirk's list. I have not seen it in a naturalized condition. (S. Europe.)

Capsicum annuum, L. A fugitive garden escape. (Tropics.)

* Nicandra physaloides, Gærtn. Waste places about Auckland. Scarce at present. (S. America.)

Lycium chinense, Mill. Waste places, hedges, roadsides, etc., pretty frequent about Auckland, and in most of the country townships. (Tropical Asia.)

Datura stramonium. Waste places, yards, etc., near Auckland, but not common. (Tropical Asia?)

Nicotiana tabaccum, L. An occasional escape from cultivation. (Tropical America.)

Scrophularineæ.

Verbascum thapsus, L. Volcanic hills, etc., near Auckland; Matamata, plentiful in 1879. (Europe.)

"blattaria, L. Waste places and pastures, Auckland to Waikato. (Europe.)

* "sp. Fields near Henderson, not observed else-where.

– 289 –

Linaria elatine, Mill. Waste places and roadsides. Vicinity of Auckland; Otahuhu; Ngaruawahia; etc. (Europe.)

Digitalis purpurea, L. Auckland Isthmus; Thames; Whangarei. By no means common. (Europe.)

Veronica agrestis, L. A weed of frequent occurrence in most districts. (Europe.)

"buxbaumii, Ten. Plentiful in most cultivated districts. (Europe.)

Veronica arvensis, L. A common weed throughout the greater portion of the district. (Europe.)

"serpyllifolia, L. Fields and moist places, very plentiful. (Europe.)

* Bartsia viscosa, L. Near Helensville; Remuera; in great abundance between Pukekohe and Tuakau. (Europe.)

Orobanchaceæ.

Orobanche minor, L. Whangarei; in several localities on the Auckland Isthmus, especially on the volcanic cones of Mount Eden and Rangitoto; Drury; near Cambridge. (Europe.)

Verbenaceæ.

Verbena officinalis, L. In immense abundance about Mongonui; also plentiful in some parts of the Waikato country. In other districts by no means common. (Europe.)

"bonariensis, L. Waste places about Auckland, rare. (S. America.)

Labiatæ.

Mentha viridis, L. Ditches and waste places in most districts. (Europe.)

"piperita, Huds. All introduced, and spreading, especially M. sativa. (Europe.)

", aquatica, L. All introduced, and spreading, especially M. sativa. (Europe.)

* "sativa, L. All introduced, and spreading, especially M. sativa. (Europe.)

* ", arvensis, L. L. All introduced, and spreading, especially M. sativa. (Europe.)

* ", pulegium, L. Whangarei; in several places about Auckland. (Europe.)

* "australis, Br. Roadsides between Raglan and Ruapuke; plentiful in January, 1877. (Australia.)

Nepeta cataria, L. Local. Vicinity of Auckland; near Alexandra. (Europe.)

Brunella vulgaris, L. Generally diffused through the entire district, in all soils and situations. One of the most abundant and wide-spreading of our naturalized plants. (Europe.)

* Cedronella triphylla, Mœnch. This has become very abundant on the lava streams around Mt. Eden, forming dense clumps many feet in diameter and 3–4 feet high. Doubtless it has escaped from some garden in the vicinity. (Madeira.)

Calamintha acinus, Clairv. Mentioned by Mr. Kirk. It does not appear to have been noticed of late years. (Europe.)

– 290 –

Marrubium vulgare, L. Waste places, roadsides, etc., Auckland to Waikato, not uncommon. (Europe.)

* Salvia verbenaca, L. Appeared by a roadside in the suburbs of Auckland some years ago, but seems to have become extinct. (Europe.)

Stachys arvensis, L. A troublesome weed in cultivated ground throughout the district. (Europe.)

* Galeopsis tetrahit, L. Waste places near Otahuhu, January, 1881. (Europe.)

Plantagineæ.

Plantago major, L. Waste places and roadsides through the district. (Europe.)

" media, L. Vicinity of Auckland and a few other localities, not common. (Europe.)

" lanceolata, L. Everywhere in pastures, etc., specially in medium stiff soils. (Europe.)

" coronopus, L. Waste places and sandy soil near the sea. Bay of Islands; Waitemata; Onehunga, most abundant; Tauranga; Poverty Bay. (Europe.)

" virginica, L.(?) Rangiriri; Ngaruawahia; and other places in the Waikato. (N. America.)

Nyctagineæ.

* Mirabilis jalappa, L. A garden escape near Auckland. (S. America.)

Amarantaceæ.

Amarantus caudatus, L. Occasionally seen about gardens, but is hardly naturalized. (Tropics.)

" retroflexus, L. Streets of Auckland, and waste places and gardens in the suburbs, not common. (Tropics.)

* " hybridus, L. Abundant in waste places about Auckland; also at the Thames and in most of the country townships. Becoming a troublesome weed in gardens in rich or highlymanured soils. (Tropics.)

" blitum, L. Waste places and streets of Auckland, not nearly so common as the preceding, (Tropics.)

"(Euxolus)lividus, L. Recorded by Mr. Kirk. I have not seen

" oleraceus, L. either of them. (Tropics.)

" viridis, L. Waste places and streets of Auckland. Also recorded by Mr. Kirk from the Thames, and gathered many years ago at the Bay of Islands by Allan Cunningham. (Tropics.)

* " (Euxolus) gracilis, Desv. (Euxolus caudatus, Moq., non Amarantus caudatus, L.) Waste places within the City of Auckland, and as a weed in gardens in the suburbs. (Tropics.)

– 291 –

Chenopodiaceæ.

Chenopodium album, L. A common weed in rich soils on the Auckland Isthmus, especially about Onehunga. (Europe.)

" murale, L. Waste places, roadsides, etc., plentiful. (Europe.)

* " bonus-henricus, L. Noticed at Onehunga in 1878, but perhaps only an escape from cultivation. (Europe.)

Salsola kali, L. Shores of the Waitemata and Manukau, not uncommon. Rare at the Thames. (Europe.)

Phytolaccaceæ.

Phytolacca octandra, L. Waste places and roadsides on the Auckland Isthmus, and especially plentiful on the lava streams from Mount Eden. Waitakerei district, becoming plentiful by the sides of the bush tracks. It has also found its way into many other localities in the provincial district. (Tropical America.)

Polygoneæ.

* Polygonum persicaria, L. Fields near Panmure. (Europe.)

* " convolvulus, L. Roadsides and waste places about Auckland, not common. (Europe.)

Fagopyrum esculentum, Mœnch. An occasional escape from cultivation. (Europe.)

Rumex obtusifolius. Abundant throughout the district. The docks must have been very early introductions, for Earl mentions that they were great nuisances in Maori plantations at Hokianga in 1834. (Europe.)

* " pulcher, L. Throughout the district. This species has increased greatly during the last six years, prior to which it was by no means frequent. (Europe.)

" crispus, L. Generally distributed. (Europe.)

" sanguineus, L, var. viridis. Generally distributed. (Europe.)

" conglomeratus, Murr. Recorded by Mr. Kirk. I have not met with it. (Europe.)

" acetosa, L. Not uncommon. (Europe.)

" acetosella, L. A most abundant and troublesome weed throughout the district. (Europe.)

* Emex australis, Stein. This has appeared twice in waste places near Auckland, but does not seem to increase. (Australia.)

Proteaceæ.

* Hakea acicularis. Sm. Has established itself over several miles of open manuka country at the foot of the Waitakerei Range, and is increasing fast. Its origin can be easily traced to a planted hedge in the neighbourhood. (Australia.)

– 292 –

Euphorbiaceæ.

Euphorbia helioscopia, L. Light rich soils, plentiful in the Bay of Islands and Whangarei districts,—scarcer to the south. (Europe.)

" peplus, L. A common weed in gardens and cultivated fields. (Europe.)

" lathyris, L. Waste places and roadsides, not common. Whangarei; Lake Pupuke; Devonport; Mt. Eden. (Europe.)

* " hypericifolia, L. Streets of Auckland. I am indebted to Mr. John Kenderdine for drawing my attention to this plant. (Tropics.)

Ricinus communis, L. Warm and dry localities near Auckland, not uncommon. (Tropics.)

Urticaceæ.

Humulus lupulus, L. Sometimes seen as an escape from cultivation. (Europe.)

Ficus carica, L. This is wonderfully tenacious of life, and not easily killed when once planted. It is thus frequently seen in abandoned gardens, etc., but can hardly be considered naturalized. (N. Asia.)

Urtica urens, L. Both of these species have made their appearance in waste places about Auckland, but they do not seem to spread. (Europe.)

" dioica, L.

* Salix babylonica, L. The “weeping-willow” was planted many years ago at the Mission Station, at Tangiteroria, on the Northern Wairoa River, and from branches and twigs floated down the river has established itself in profusion on the banks, often fringing them for miles, and in some places impeding the navigation. It is also naturalized on the banks of the Waikato, but not nearly to the same extent. (Central Asia.)

Salix alba, L. Naturalized on the banks of the Northern Wairoa and Waikato. (Europe.)

Scitamineæ.

Canna indica, L. A garden escape of moderately frequent occurrence. (Tropics.)

Iridaceæ.

* Sparaxis tricolor, Ker. A garden escape near Auckland, not common. (Cape.)

Sisyrinchium bermudianum, L. Fields on the Auckland Isthmus, not common. Near Matamata, Mr. Kirk (on the authority of Mr. Gillies.) (N. America.)

– 293 –

Iris germanica, L. This species, originally a garden escape, has now firmly established itself in most districts. (Europe.)

* Watsonia angusta, Ker. (?) An escape from gardens. (Cape.)

Gladiolus sp. A frequent garden escape. (Cape?)

Antholyza œthiopica, L. Has established itself in several localities near Auckland. (Cape.)

Amaryllideæ.

Agave americana, L. Old plants throw up a multitude of suckers. (Tropical N. America.)

Liliaceæ.

Asparagus officinalis, L. Solitary plants are frequently seen, doubtless originating from seeds conveyed by birds from gardens. (Europe.)

Allium vineale, L. Not uncommon, especially in abandoned Maori cultivations, and sandy plats near the sea. (Europe.)

* " ampeloprasum, L. Shores of Doubtless Bay. (Europe.)

Asphodelus fistulosus, L. Plentiful about Mongonui. (S. Europe.)

* Aloe latifolia, Haworth. An escape from gardens near Auckland (Cape.)

Juncaceæ.

* Juncus tenuis, Willd. Northern Wairoa; Paparata Valley; Rangiriri; Ngaruawahia; between Hamilton and Cambridge. I am now inclined to consider this species as an importation. (Europe.)

Arvideæ.

Richardia africana, Kunth. Ditches and waste places, now plentiful about Auckland and in many places of the country townships. (Cape.)

Colocasia antiquorum, Schott. The taro of the natives, often lingering in their deserted cultivations for many years. (Tropics.)

Alocasia indica, Schott. Stated in the Handbook to have been introduced and cultivated by the natives. I have not seen it. (Tropics.)

Naiadeæ.

Aponogeton distachyon, L. In streams at Waimate, Bay of Islands. Originally planted by the early missionaries. (Cape.)

Cyperaceæ.

Cyperus tenellus, Linn. f. Now spread throughout the greater portion of the district, from Whangarei to the Upper Waikato. In 1862 confined to a limited district in the immediate neighbourhood of Auckland. Considered to be indigenous by Mr. Kirk. (Cape.)

– 294 –

*Cyperus rotundus, L. The well-known “nut-grass” has found its way into several gardens in the vicinity of Auckland, and is likely to prove a serious pest, as its numerous tubers make it difficult to eradicate. (Tropics.)

*" sp. This belongs to the same section of the genus as the preceding.

I have only seen it near Mongonti.

*Carex panicea, L. Vicinity of Auckland; Mahurangi. (Europe.)

Gramineæ.

Panicum (Digitaria) sanguinale, L. A common and troublesome weed in light rich soils throughout the district. (Tropics.)

" (Digitaria) glabrum, Gaud. Vicinity of Auckland; not common. (Tropics.)

" (Echinochloa) colonum, L. Onehunga. (Tropics.) "" crus-galli, L. Waste places about Auckland and elsewhere; not common. (Tropics.)

Setaria glauca, Beauv. A weed in a few gardens at Onehunga; rare. (Tropics.)

" macrostachya, H.B.K. Between Otahuhu and Papakura, not uncommon. (S. Europe.)

" viridis, Beauv. Vicinity of Auckland, rare. (S. Europe.)

Stenotaphrum americanum, Schrank. Has been planted in many localities, and in some is spreading; but, as it seldom ripens perfect seed, its increase is necessarily slow. (North America.)

Alopecurus agrestis, L. Fields and roadsides; in most districts, but nowhere common. (Europe.)

" pratensis, L. Fields, etc., Auckland to Waikato, not common. (Europe.)

*Polypogon monspeliensis, Desf. Muddy places on the shores of the Manukau and Waitemata Harbours, increasing fast. (Europe.)

*" fugax, Nees. Waste places, ditches, etc., on the Auckland Isthmus, increasing fast. Thames, J. Adams. (Tropics.)

Phleum pratense, L. Common throughout the district. (S. Europe.)

Anthoxanthum odoratum, L. Spread through the whole district, much too abundant in many pastures. (Europe.)

Phleum pratense, L. Often seen in pastures, but not nearly so abundant as it should be, considering the extent to which it is sown. (Europe.)

Agrostis vulgaris, With. Pastures and roadsides, very generally distributed. (Europe.)

" alba, L. Equally abundant as the preceding, but usually affecting stiffer soils and damper situations. (Europe.)

– 295 –

Gastridium lendigerum, Gaud. Auckland Isthmus; Waitakerei; Otahuhu. (Europe.)

*Ammophila arundinacea, Host. Has been planted in one or two places on the western coast to check the progress of sand-dunes, and may be expected to increase, as it has done at Taranaki and Nelson. (Europe.)

* Lagurus ovatus, L. Motuihi Island, extremely plentiful; near Auckland, rare. (Europe.)

Aira caryophyllea, L. Common in most localities. (Europe.)

*" prœcox, L. A few plants observed near Waiuku in December, 1877. (Europe.)

* Deschampsia flexuosa, L. Fields on the Auckland Isthmus, rare. (Europe.)

Holcus lanatus, L. Abundant, one of the most wide-spread of the naturalized grasses. (Europe.)

" mollis, L. Abundant. (Europe.)

* Trisetum flavescens. Local and rare at present. Thames; Hamilton. (Europe.)

Avena sativa, L. Has become extensively naturalized on sea-cliffs in the northern and central portions of the district, in addition to frequently occurring in fields as an escape from cultivation. (Europe.)

Arrhenatherum avenaceum, Beauv. Established in a few situations about Auckland. (Europe.)

Cynodon dactylon, L. Plentiful throughout the district. (S. Europe, etc.)

* Triodia decumbens, L. I am indebted to Mr. H. Hunter for specimens gathered on the Kumeu Flats, Kaipara. (Europe.)

Cynosurus cristatus, L. Not uncommon on stiff soils in various portions of the district. (Europe.)

Eragrostis brownii, Nees. Bay of Islands; Northern Wairoa; Whangarei; near Auckland. (Australia.)

Dactylis glomerata, L. Generally distributed. (Europe.)

Briza minor, L. Generally distributed. (Europe.)

" maxima, L. Northcote; Ellerslie; near Howick. (S. Europe.)

Poa, annua, L. Throughout the district. (Europe.)

" pratensis, L. Throughout the district. (Europe.)

* " compressa, L. Auckland Isthmus, not common. (Europe.)

" trivialis, L. Waste places about Auckland, and occasionally in pastures. (Europe.)

" nemoralis, L. Auckland Domain. (Europe.)

* Glyceria fluitans, L. Made its appearance in some wet places on the Auckland harbour reclamations, about two years ago, but has been lately destroyed. (Europe.)

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Festuca pratensis, L. Pastures, not common. (Europe.)

" myurus, L. The true plant by no means abundant, but increasing. The variety sciuroides = F. bromoides, Sm.—plentiful through the district. (Europe.)

Bromus erectus, Huds. Recorded by Mr. Kirk. I have not observed it. (Europe.)

" sterilis, L. Plentiful, especially in waste or sandy places near the sea. (Europe.)

" madritensis, L. Included in Mr. Kirk's list. I have not seen

" tectorum, L. them. (Europe.)

" mollis, L. Generally distributed. (Europe.)

" racemosus, L. Equally abundant with the preceding, together with its variety B. commutatus, Schrad. (Europe.)

" arvensis, L. Not common. Waste places near Auckland, etc. (Europe.)

" patulus, Reich. Included by Mr. Kirk in his catalogue. I have never gathered it. (Europe.)

" unioloides, DC. The prevailing grass in many of the streets and waste places about Auckland. Not so common in the country, as it will not bear close cropping. (N. America.)

Lolium perenne, L. Plentiful through the district. (Europe.)

" italicum, A. Braun. Pastures and waste places, not common. (Europe.)

" temulentum, L. Cultivated fields in most districts. (Europe.)

Triticum sativum. An occasional escape from cultivation, but never lasts long in one situation. (Europe.)

Lepturus incurvatus, Trin. Common in brackish-water swamps, etc. (Europe.)

Hordeum vulgare, L. Sometimes lingers in cultivated fields. (Europe.)

" murinum, L. Sandy flats near the sea. Waitemata; Thames; Tauranga. (Europe.)

Arundinaria macrosperma, Michx. Lingers in several old Maori settlements, but cannot be looked upon as truly naturalized. (North America.)

The following species, included in Mr. Kirk's Catalogue of the Naturalized Plants of Auckland, should be altogether struck out of our lists:—

Fumaria parviflora, Lam. Mentioned in the “Flora of New Zealand,” vol. 2, p, 321. I believe that I am correct in stating that this has not been seen by any recent botanist.

Gypsophila tubulosa, Boiss. Included by Dr. Hooker in his list of naturalized plants, but is doubtless a true native.

– 297 –

Geranium molle, L. The same remarks apply.

Eutaxia strangeana, Turcz. Stated by its author to come from New Zealand, probably through some mistake. It will doubtless prove to be some well-known Australian plant.

Guilandina bonduc, L. Erroneously stated by Forster to come from New Zealand. See “Handbook,” p. 53.

Opuntia vulgaris, Mill. Recorded by Sir J. D. Hooker in the lists of naturalized plants appended to both the “Flora” and the “Handbook;” but must be expunged, as it never spreads out of cultivation in New Zealand.

Anthriscus cerefolium, Hoffm. “Handbook,” p. 759. Has not been noticed by any recent botanist.

Arnoseris pusilla, Gærtn. If this is the species meant by the name “Lapsana pusilla, L.,” quoted in the “Handbook, page, 760, the preceding remarks apply also.

Stylidium graminifolium, Swz. No specimens of this have been found in New Zealand since the solitary one obtained by the late General Bolton in 1851.

Epacris purpurascens, Br. Fl.N.Z., vol 2, p. 321. It appears preferable to regard this as indigenous.

Cynoglossum micranthum, Br. (?). “Handbook,” p. 197. No. species of this genus has been obtained in New Zealand of late years.

Solanum nigrum, L. “Handbook,” p. 761. Should be considered as indigenous.

" virginianum, L. Kirk, Trans., 2, p. 140. It appears to be quite uncertain what plant Linnœus had in view when he applied this name, which had much better be dropped. I have no idea what species Mr. Kirk had in mind.

Verbascum phœniceum, L. Kirk, Trans., 2, p. 141. Has not been seen in a naturalized state of late years.

Herpestes cuneifolia, Spr. Erroneously included in Raoul's list of New Zealand plants.

Veronica officinalis, L. I am not aware that this has been observed in a naturalized state in the Auckland district.

" anagallis, L. Should probably be looked upon as indigenous.

Phytolacca decandra, L. “Handbook,” p. 701. Introduced into the lists by mistake, as explained by Mr. Kirk (Trans. 2, p. 141.)

Polygonum aviculare, L. It is perhaps preferable to regard this species as indigenous.

" minus, L. “Handbook,” p. 761. Is certainly indigenous, if the variety decipiens is the plant meant; and I am not aware that any other form has been seen in New Zealand.

– 298 –

Chenopodium urbicum, L. I have never seen this in the Auckland district.

" ambrosioides, L. Probably a true native.

Iatropha curcas, L. Fl.N.Z. 2, p. 322. Extremely unlikely to become naturalized in any part of New Zealand.

Dioscorea alata, L. Fl.N.Z., 2, p. 322. May have been cultivated by the Maoris, but I very much doubt its becoming naturalized.

Panicum gibbosum, Br. Erroneusly introduced into Raoul's list.

Aristida calycina, Br. Supposed to have been gathered at the Bay of Islands by Cunningham, no doubt through some mistake.

Eleusine indica, Gærtn. “Handbook,” p. 331. Has not been seen of late years.

Anthistiria australis, Br. “Handbook,” p. 325. The same remarks apply, so far as the district of Auckland is concerned.

Apluda mutica, L. “Handbook,” p. 325. No botanist has observed this since Dr. Sinclair's time.

Andropogon refractus, Br. “Handbook,” p. 325. Reported from New Zealand by Allan Cunningham, but it has not since been met with.

Eragrostis eximia, Steud. Stated by its author to come from New Zealand; but his description has not been recognized.

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