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SOMBRERO

Volume 17 · 145 words · 1797 Edition

the name of an uninhabited island in the West Indies in the form of a hat, whence the name is derived. It is also the name of one of the Nicobar islands in the East Indies.

Wonderful Plant of Sombrero, is a strange kind of sensitive plant growing in the East Indies, in sandy bays and in shallow water. It appears like a slender straight stick; but when you attempt to touch it, immediately withdraws itself into the sand. Mr. Miller gives an account of it in his description of Sumatra. He says, the Malays call it lalan lou, that is, sea grass. He never could observe any tentacles; but, after many unsuccessful attempts, drew out a broken piece about a foot long. It was perfectly straight and uniform, and resembled a worm drawn over a knitting needle. When dry it appears like a coral.