Artificial Systems of plant classification

1006. Artificial Systems arose from its being found necessary to have some definite modes of distinction; when, as Dr. Lindley observes, ' botanists set themselves to work to discover some method of arrangement, that should be to Botany what the alphabet is to language, a key by which the details of the science may be readily ascertained. With this in view, Rivinus invented, in 1690, a system depending on the formation of the corolla; Kamel, in 1693, upon the fruit alone; Magnol, in 1720, on the calyx and corolla; and finally Limnﾵus, in 1731, on variations in the stamens and pistil.' (Lindl. Veg. King., Introd. p. xxiii.) All these systems, however, are liable to the very great and insurmountable objection, that, depending on a single feature, they become uncertain if that feature should chance to be altered, as it often is, by any accidental circumstance arising from the soil, situation, weather, &c. Thus, for instance, when the artificial arrangement depends upon the corolla, if from a very dry season, or any other cause, the flower happens to be distorted, it becomes impossible to recognise the species.