[A.B. Rendle, botanist; The Snowdrop] Autograph Letter Signed A.B. Rendle to Grinling [[C.H.] Grinling, socialist, editor of the Woolwich Pioneer, botanist], discussing the Snowdrop at length.

Author: 
A.B. Rendle [Alfred Barton Rendle (1865 – 1938), botanist].
Publication details: 
[Embossed] 28 Hollybush Raod, Putney, S.W., 14 March [1930?].
£80.00
SKU: 23691

Two pages, cr. 8vo, fold mark, minor repair to closed tear, text complete and legible. Text: I have no personal knowledge as to the seeding of Snowdrops in this country - the species is a very doubtful native & we are about the northern limit of its distribution. I have grown snowdrops for years but have never noticed seedlings among them & they only grow in the area where I have planted the bulbs. They would take probably several (I can't say how many off hand) years to produce flowering bulbs. This is all very vague as I am temporarily laid by the heel at home [...] & haven't access to our library [Natural History Museum]. Is it possible that birds (or mice) have disturbed your bulbs & carried one or more to the new spots? I am continually finding bulbs, especially narcissus, uprooted & lying on the soil. The snowdrop is described as 'few-seeded'. I will keep my eye on my own & see if any mature this year. He then asks him to post a letter to a Mr Whitaker, in a way that suggests they are both members of a Botanical Group.