It proves that the original color quality of
the species has not wholly, but only partly disappeared. It is dormant,
but not entirely obliterated; latent, but not totally concealed;
inactive, but only partially so. Our terminology is an awkward one; it
practically assumes, as it so often does in other cases, a conventional
understanding, not exactly corresponding to the simple meaning of the
words. But it would be cumbrous to speak always of partial inactivity,
incomplete latency or half awakening qualities. Even such words as
sub-latent, [233] which would about express the real state of things,
would have little chance of coming into general use.
Such sub-latent colors are often seen on special parts in white
varieties of flowers. In many cases it is the outer side of the petals
which recalls the specific color, as in some white roses. In violets it
is often on the spur that the remains of the original pigment are to be
seen. In many instances it is on the tips of the petals or of the
segments of the corolla, and a large number of white or yellow flowers
betray their affinity to colored species by becoming red or bluish at
the edges or on the outer side.
The reality of such very slight hues, and their relation to the original
pigment of the species may in some cases be proved by direct experiment.
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