lithospermum

[Lat. Hi tho sperm on; Gr. litho sperm on = gromwell (see def.): lithos = stone, and sperm a a seed.] 1. Bot .: Gromwell; the typical genus of the boraginaceous tribe Lithos per mere. The calyx is in five deep segments, the corolla funnel-shaped, its mouth naked or with very minute scales; the stamens included, filaments very thick, style simple, achenes stony with a truncated base, seated on a hypogynous disc. Known species about fifty, all from the temperate zone. 2. Chem.: A red coloring matter obtained from the root bark of Lithospermum arvense. It resem bles alkanet. lith-o-stro-ti-on, s. [Greek lithostrōtos =paved with stones: lithos = stone, and strotos = spread, laid.] Palæont.: A genus of Rugose Corals, family Cyathophyllidse. In some places they are so abundant as to make the bed in which they are somewhat resemble a coral reef.