BOUGHT WITH THE INCOMK FROM THE SAGE ENDOWMENT FUND THE GIFT OF Henrg W. Sage X891 ^.xz.M'^^ZAr-/.. Jid/jr/^a.:... 6896-1 RETURN TO ALBERT R. MANN LIBRARY ITHACA, N. Y. Cornell University Library SB 434.V95 Easily-grown hardy perennials, being a de 3 1924 002 825 036 A Cornell University y Library The original of tliis book is in tine Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924002825036 EASILY-GROWN HARDY PERENNIALS, Being a Description, with Notes on Habit and Uses, and Directions for Culture and Propagation, of Selected Perennial and some Biennial Outdoor Plants, Bulbs, and Tubers, comprising all of the best known Genera and Species. Jllustrated by 355 dleproduetions of tPdotograpds. BY GEORGE H.^'VOS, B.A., Etc. (Cambridge.) EDITORIALLY SUPERVISED BY T. W. SANDERS, F.L.S., F.R.H.S., Editor of " Amateur Qardenlng," Etc. LONDON : W. H. & L. COLLINQRIDQE, ALDERSQATE STREET, EC. LONDON : rniNTED Br w. h. and i,. colli ngbidge, 148 AND 149, ALDEBSGATE STREET, E.C. INTRODUCTION. It has boon a groat pleasure to the Author to observe that Hardy Perennials (which include bulbs and tubers as well as fibrous and woody-rooted plants) have been more extensively cultivated during the past few years. That they are deserving of this cannot be doubted, not only on account of their intrinsic merits as ornamental subjects for the garden, and for cut bloom (for which many are well suited), bxit also because they are easy to grow in the open without the aid of any artificial heat, and require but little attention, and may almost all, too, be propagated in the open by division, an easy process, requiring but little, if any, previous experience. Most, more- over, will thrive not only in country air, but also near cities and towns (including London), being thus available for that rapidly increasing section of gardeners, the small suburban householder. As nearly all can now be bought at reasonable prices ready to plant out, there is no reason why every garden, however small, should not contain a goodly representation of them. A selection can be made (if the whole be not cultivated) to provide outdoor flowers during almost every week of the year (except during frost), so that a garden thus stocked need scarcely ever be without bloom of some sort. Amongst them subjects can be found for every position, whether in sun, half or full shade, or even under trees, making them peculiarly adapted to small walled and shut-in gardens. The species described in this volume may, as the title indicates, be "easily grown," and comprise, fortunately, all the finest and most popular of the really hardy spscies that are either indigenous to Great Britain, or that have been introduced IV INTRODUCTION. up to the present day. Special attention has been given in this work to the meanings of the Latin, Greeli, and other names, which those who have not had the advantage of a classical education find so hard to understand, much less remember. These meanings are included in brackets through- out the work. The English titles of genera and species are also given wherever they exist. The countries of origin have been stated, as this gives a clue to the hardiness of the species, and a better idea of their exact requirements. The Author has chosen photography to illustrate his work, chiefly because of its faithfulness to nature. He thinks he may lay claim to some originality in the methods adopted by him, in the production of the negatives, to bring out the flowers in bold relief, and without being indistinguishable from the background, as flowers often are in photographs, though this has been done in some instances at the expense of detail in the foliage. The high quality now attainable in the half-tone process (by which the plates herein have been reproduced) has much facilitated the work, though no such reproductions equal silver printing in the usual way, a method, however, unfortunately not available for illustration in a work like the present. The Author has, in all cases where the subjects were not too large, presented them as they are seen growing in the soil. This natural method has not liitherto been much attempted in the photography of plant life. The Author's best thanks are due to Mr. T. W. Sanders, F.L.S., who has, with much patience and labour, gone through and supervised the proof sheets. If the Author's humble attempts serve still further to stimulate the cultivation of Hardy Perennials, his highest I aspirations in this respect will have been attained. ti ToUmhaiit, London, N. CORRECTIONS. Pag-e 3.— Line U from bottom, first word ; for " noble," rea4 " double" Page 7. — Linea 4 to .6 from bottom; for " pyramidalis," read " pyramidale," Page 19.— Line 3 from top ; read " Gr. a, not." Page JfS. — [Jnder Speciea, line 7; for " Orimaoa Grreen," read '* Crimson Gem." Page 69.— Under Propagation, line 2 ; for '* stray," read " strong." Page 80. — Line 3 from top; for " Oompanalaoeae," read " CampanvilacaaB." Page 105. — Line 9 from top ; for " ahoald be," read " sho||3» U^ ^'■'JiA.. ^*'" ^lA^ t*s: jH^nBI^ ^Jl■i /«* ? '*'"'*^' * .isM^ A ^^... "^'--.... " ' > -^ ■A z;^;- ■■ laa*^ Fig. 31. AsTBB ALPINDS spECiosus ALBCS (Mountain Daisy), (Ht. 6 to 9 ins.) and Erigerons, all of the same natural order as Asters, have a general resemblance to them in the shape of their flowers. 56 EASILY GROWN HARDY PERENNIALS. Habit and Uses. — Early and late summer to late autumn flowering, fibrous-rooted, herbaceous pecennials. Height, 6 in. to 6 ft. When the blaze of summer bloom is past, then are welcome the bright Michaelmas Daisies, the last to FiQ. 32. ■ Aster Amellus bessababiocs {Bessarabian Michaelmas Daisy). (Ht. 2 ft.) bloom of the hardy perennials, except the Chrysanthemums, till the Christmas Eoses appear; and we are glad to have them both, as border ornaments as well as in the vase, for which their pretty, numerous, and long-lasting ASTER AMELLUS BESSARABICUS, 57 flowers are well suited, especially where large quantities are required. One spray makes a bouquet by itself. Their cul- ture is very simple, and their hardiness lets them thrive even in town gardens, whilst the flowers will bravely face for several weeks, uninjured, the storms of rain and wind that may herald the approach of winter frosts. Species, Etc. — These are numerous. The following are some of the best, and representative of the whole genus. All the flowers have greenish-yellow centres. The most bloom on the tall kinds is always borne on the sunniest side of the plants, and on the upper third, and they all face one way, presenting a large gay bouquet-like appearance, which lasts six or more weeks. Leaves small and plentiful. The stems are numerous and close, and do not require staking. The following are dwarf, compact, stemless forms of a tufted habit : Height, 6 in. to 9 in. Flowers, June to July, 2 in. to 4 in. across. Of these, A. alpinvs (Alpine), the blue Mountain Daisy, an old garden plant, is the best. Its white variety, A. alpinus albus, is illustrated (Fig. 31). A. alpinus speciosus (showy), has large flowers. There is also a red form of it, A. alpinus ruber. All are pretty. Then come the tall-stemmed bushy species, flowering from August, and onwards to frost, in branching heads (panicles), 1 in. or more across The heights in the follow- ing list are approximate only : Height, 2 ft. — A. Amdlus (a Lat. name for an Aster-like plant growing on the river Mella), the Italian Starwort, an old garden form, of which the Bessarabian variety, A. Amellus bessarahicus, is illustrated (Fig. 32). It is a fine showy species, but the petals are rather lax ; August. A. Aiiiellus eler/ans {elegant), the lilac (or indigo blue) Starwort. Flowers very small, but numerous. " Diana," one of its forms, is very graceful ; September. A. diffusus (diff'use) native of N. America, the Spreading Starwort is white flowered. A variety of it, A. d. horizontalis (horizontal stemmed), shows well the characteristics of this species, the side stems all growing out at right angles to the main one ; October. A. grandiflorus (large flowered), native of N. America, violet blue, a late bloomer; is considered by some the finest of all the tall Asters ; November. A. Thompsonii (Thompson's), the lilac Himalayan Aster, has large flowers ; is the earliest to bloom, August to October, and one of the most beautiful. Height, 3 ft. — A. amethystinus (amethyst coloured 58 EASILY GROWN HARDY PERENNIALS. flowers), and A. cm'ymbosus (corymbus-flowered), white, both from N. America ; leaves, large heart-shaped ; stems, blackish purple. A. longifolms, long-leaved, bright rose. These Isist three bloom in October. A. acris (acrid), S. Europe ; the blue Starwort is very effective, and one of the prettiest ; August. Height, 4 ft. — A. novi-belgii (New York), a native of N. America, has several varieties, soft blue, lilac, pale blue, deep rosy-lilac, white, bright blue, lavender and rose ; September. A. ericoides (Erica or heath-like), white, a native of N. America ; a very graceful species, with very small flowers, only J in., closely packed, with small leaves on the straggling stems ; September. Height, 6 ft. or more — A. novce- anglioB (New England), a native of N. America, in named varieties with large flowers, blueish-purple, clear rose, bright rich crimson, and deep violet-purple, slightly incurved. The last, known as A. novoe-anglioe William Bowman, is perhaps the finest. This section is the last to bloom of the Asters, con- tinuing from September till the end of November. Culture. — Ordinary soil, preferring that which is rather light and dry. The best position is an open and sunny border, but they, do very well, too, in partial shade, in amongst shrubs or on shrubbery edges. A. alpinus is really a rockery plant, but will thrive also in raised borders, where it is best planted on a sloping ledge ; and is sometimes used as an edging plant, but is apt to die off from wet. Plant from November to March (best in early spring). Propagation. — They are best left to form clumps for two or three seasons, when, to renew their best flowering qualities, they should be divided in October to November, but the clumps will go on enlarging in an irregular manner indefinitely. Division is much the quickest, simplest, and best method of increase, but cuttings taken in autumn will root readily under a hand-glass. Take these from the stem, or from the rootless portions of the divided root-stock. A. Thompsonii will not divide well. Seeds may be sown in spring under a cold frame or hand-glass. If the ground be undisturbed they may seed themselves. ASTRANTIA-STAR PLANT. 59 Astrantia.— Star Plant. Nat. Ord. — Umbelliferce. Derivation. — Gr. Astron, a star, and Anti, signifying com- parison ; from the appearance of the flowers. Also "known as Masterwort, from some former use in medicine. Fig. 33. ASTEE LONGirOLIUS FORMOSUS. (Ht. 3 ft.) Habit and Uses. — Late spring to autumn flowering, herba- ceous perennials, with blackish fibrous roots. Height 6 in. to 2 ft. As larger and larger flowered, more showy genera and species have been introduced, so one by one the old ones have 60 EASILY GROWN HARDY PERENNIALS. disappeared, since " the fashion of this world changeth," and the Astrantias have well-nigh gone from our gardens. But they do not deserve their fate, and are worth growing, jf only for the foliage. Astrantia major used to be found ,^^^^f^^^^^ I^:i^^^ Fro. 34. ASTKANTIA MAJOR {Star Plunt). (Ht. 1 to 2 ft.) wild in Stokesay Wood, near Ludlow, so that the require- ments of this species at all events will be seen to be simple, and the same is true of its fellows. The pretty star-like flowers last an exceptionally long time on the plants or in the cut FLOWERS OF ASTRANTIA MAJOR. 61 state in water, whilst the blooming period is a very prolonged one, as flowers may be found on the plant right up to frost from May. Species, Etc. — Leaves mostly radical ; long stalked, deep green, shining, palmate, resembling those of the Globe Flowers, FiQ. 35. Flowers op Astrantia major. and some of the Buttercup. Flowering period. May to autumn. Some of the best are ^. major (larger), illustrated (Fig. 34), and mentioned above. This is a fine form, and of a compact habit. A. minor (lesser) is similar, but smaller. Another of the same 82 EASILY GROWN HARDY PERENNIALS. height as A. major but not so compact, but with larger peculiarly smelling flowers, also pink, is A. hellehorifolia (Hellebore-leaved), a native of S. Caucasus. A. carniolica (from Carniola, in Germany) is only 6 to 1 2 in. high ; flowers pinkish. Of these A. major is the best. Culture. — Grow in ordinary somewhat sandy soil, to ensure drainage, and in a sunny, or better in the more moist soil of a half shady border, or naturalised in most banks in woodlands, where the weeds are not too strong. Plant in October or in March. A free watering in very dry weather may be needed for them. Propagation. — Allow them to form clumps for several seasons. When necessary, by failure of stems or flowering, or to increase, divide in October or March. Aubrietia. — Purple Rock Cress. Nat. Ord. — Cruciferce. Derivation. — Named after Mons. Aubriet, a French artist, skilled in drawing plants. Habits and Uses. — Dwarf, trailing, evergreen perennials, with fibrous roots, flowering late spring to summer. Height, 2 to 4 in. Established patches of these plants, whether on the rockery or sloping border, produce a profusion of pretty small flowers. The foliage is evergreen, which recom- mends the plants for the rockery, where greenery is needed, especially in autumn and winter, and they give no trouble. They resemble the White Eock Cresses {Arabis), but the flowers are of purple shades, and the plants are, if we may so term it, more aristocratic. Species, Etc — From several we select some of the best, all flowering in April and onwards, and 2 to 4 in. high, viz. : Henderson's or Campbell's, A. Hendersoni or Gamphelli(¥\g. 36), a variety of A. deltoidea (D-shaped leaves), and a native of Naples, with large deep violet-purple flowers, is the most robust. Leichtlin's (A. LeichtUni), flowers reddish-crimson. AUBRIETIA HENDERSONI. 63 The Grecian Aubrietia (A. grceea), with light-purple flowers, a vigorous plant, and not so straggling as the others. Culture. — Sandy or gritty ordinary garden loam. Aubrietias are 'lest at home when planted on stony slopes, or at ^m 1 iHRP^K*^' >^^ "; ^:''' ms^mm 'P-2di r 6." **.-<•. \ -V '^J^ Fio. 36. Adbrietia Hendeesoni {Henderson's Purple Rock Cress). (Ht. 4 ins.) the edge of large stones on a full sunny rockery, over and between the dry surfaces of which they will trail and hang down (see illustration). But they thrive, too, on borders, which are better if sloping gently and strewn with small stones, C4 EASILY GROWN HARDY PERENNIALS. to meet their dislike of dampness. They must not be over- shadowed in any way by other plants. They make good subjects for the sloping ledge of a raised border facing south, or thereabouts. It is important to remember that, though the woody growth likes to cover dry parts, the roots, whether in the rockery or border, must be in as deep soil as possible, or it will not afford them sufficient moisture for the sustenance of the plants. If the border be found too wet for them, this can be remedied by raising it somewhat, and placing a substratum of 2 or 3 in. of small stones about a foot under the surface, which will provide drainage. Plant October to November. Propagat[ON. — It is not until well established (they should be left severely alone) that they show their real beauty, and this may not be for three or four years. If the plants get shabby they may be renewed by pegging down, in February or March, the woody shoots just beneath the soil, being careful not to break them in so doing ; or an inch of earth may be sprinkled over them. Either plan makes them root anew, and, if desired, these portions can then be removed as young plants when rooted or in autumn.' Propagate also by seeds sown in shady beds in April, removing the plants to their position the same autumn. If seed be sown in spring on old walls, in mossy chinks, and watered till started, Aubrietias may be used successfully for their adornment, and will continue growing for several years without attention. Bambusa. — Bamboo. Nat. Ord. — GraminecB. Derivation. — Malay, Bambii. Habit and Uses. — Several species are perennials, some being hardy, and most are herbaceous or green till cut duwn by frost. A few flower in Great Britain, but they are grown chiefly for their beautiful foliage. Height 3 to 20 ft. Habit, tufted and somewhat bushy. Their height is much less in Great Britain than in their native country, or under glass. PHYLLOSTACHYS, OR BAMBUSA FLEXUOSA. 65 Leaves more or less lance-shaped. Flowers, grass-like in summer. Only a few of the Bamboos can be said to be " easily grown " in the British Isles. Even these will require extra care in the choice of a warm, moist, and sheltered spot, well watering in Pig. 37. Phtllostachys ob Bambusa flbxuosa {Bamboo). (Ht. 5 to 6 ft.) summer, and protection in winter and spring. Considering, however, that these necessaries can without much difficulty be supplied, and that the plants will seldom require removal or renewal, the trouble they give will be more than dis- 66 EASILY GROWN HARDY PERENNIALS. counted by their beauty, and the tropical aspect they impart to a garden, raising any collection of plants at once out of the common by their presence. Like many subjects that are somewhat tender, a congenial home should be found for them. Suburban gardens, by reason of the walls which surround them, afford good shelter. All Bamboos do much better on the South Coast, and in warm sea air. The North of England and Scotland are generally too cold for them. It is advisable in obtaining plants to consult growers of repute as to the best for any particular locality. Genera and Species. — There are two genera of Bamboos — Arundinaria and Bambusa. Arundinaria (like Arundo, the Lat. for the Eeed Grass) ; A. Metake (Metake), known also as Bambusa Metake, a native of Japan, a dwarf, almost evergreen, bushy species, height 4 to 6 ft., is one of the easiest grown and best known, but by no means the prettiest ; it flowers freely in Great Britain. A. falcata (sickle-shaped, arching branches), a native of India, 3 to 6 ft., tufted, is very graceful. A, Simoni (Simon's), native of China, 13 to 18 ft., a much spreading Bamboo ; running underground, the young shoots appear at some distance from the parent; plant, therefore, where there is much room for it. Bambusa — (Bambusa is Bamboo, Latinized). — Several members of this genus are also known as Phylloetaehys (Gr. phyllon, a leaf, and stachys, a spike ; the branchlets are leafy). B. or P. aurea (golden leaves, at first green, changing to yellow), is a native of China, height 6 to 10 ft., habit tufted, and very pretty ; B. or P. nigra (black-stemmed), a native of China and Japan, reaches 4 to 5 ft., is one of the best known, and said to be the species that supplies the flexible solid Whangee canes ; B. or P. mitis (small-leaved), a native of Cochin China and Japan, is one of the tallest, growing 15 ft. or more outdoors; and B. or P. flexuosa (see Fig. 37). Culture. — Soil, deep, as the plants want much moisture, and also rich, with plenty of leaf-mould. Make large pockets for them, if necessary. Position, sunny, moist, sheltered beds and borders, and amongst protecting shrubs, or isolated on lawns. Plant in April or May. Do not disturb the ball of earth round the roots. Water freely at and after planting, and for two or three seasons whilst establishing ; also during new growth yearly, in spring time, and in hot BELLIS PERENNIS-THE DAISY. 67 weather. An April mulching every season with old stable manure is of the greatest service ; or (but not so beneficial) two or three inches of seasoned cocoanut-fibre refuse may be placed over the roots. It is always wise to protect the plants during winter, and especially in early spring, to prevent the cold winds cutting tlie early growth, which will destroy or much maim their season's beauty. An easy way of doing this is to cover the roots in late autumn with a foot of dead leaves, retaining them in place by wire netting, allowing the young growth in spring to come up out of them, and not removing the protection till late spring or early summer. In many places, however, the hardier sorts do very well without any extra care. Mats may be used. Do not disturb, unless failing, or to propagate. Pbopagation. — Increase by dividing the whole plant, or better, only portions of established plants, in the end of April or early May, planting out where they are to grow. The roots are very tender, and require careful handling. Bellis Perennis. — The Daisy. Nat. Okd. — CompositcB. Derivation. — Lat. bellus, pretty, and perennis, perennial. The Daisy, or Day's-eye, is so called because the flowers open and shut with the daylight. Habit and Uses. — Dwarf, fibrous-rooted, hardy herbaceous perennials, flowering in spring and early summer. Height, 3 in. Whilst we try to eradicate the common Daisy, a British plant, from our lawns, the finer forms, of which it is the parent, find a worthy place on our borders. Varieties. — These are all double-flowered forms of the above. A crimson-scarlet, called Eeubens, is a great favourite. One of the largest whites is known as Snowflake (see Fig. 38). There is also a peculiar old double pink variety, con- sisting of a centre flower with several smaller ones growing F 2 68 EASILY GROWN HARDY PERENNIALS. around it, suggesting Si " ben m^i chickens," and this name has been given to it (Lat. name, Bellis perennis, var, pivlifera). Another (-0, p. auauhmfalia) has Aucuba-like leaves prettily stained and veined yellow and green, flowers crimson. Elixa, ia a deep pink, Pia. 38. Bellis tBSENNis flore pleno {WJiite DouUe Daisy). (Ht. 3 in.) Culture. — Daisies grow in ordinary soil, but are much finer and have bolder colours if it be enriched with well-decayed old stable manure. If Daisies appear in quantity on your BOCCONIA-TREE CELANDINE. 69 lawn it generally implies that the soil is exhausted, whilst, if Buttercups are seen there, the soil is rich and moist. They like a sunny position and some moisture; in shade they grow lank, and flower poorly. The plants form clumps in a season or two, and as such may be grown on borders, where their best use perhaps is as an edging, for which purpose plant them only a few inches apart, in one or more rows. Such an edging can be kept trimmed in width by merely chopping it off with a spade. Peopaqation. — Seedlings do not make good plants, so it is best to get stray crowns and divide them up carefully, which is best done in March, when they are in flower or immediately afterwards. Plant in rich soil. It is important in planting to pat the soil well down around them, so as to make it firm. To obtain the finest blooms divide the plants every year, and in replanting thoroughly dig and manure the soil each time. Bocconia. — Tree Celandine, or Plumb Poppt. Nat. Oku. — Papaverac&e. Derivation. — Named after Bocconi, an Italian doctor of medicine, and a lover of plants. The leaves somewhat resemble those of the Greater Celandine (Chelidonium major). The Lesser Celandine is the Figwort {Ranunculus Ficaria). Habit and Usks. — Tall, fibrous-rooted, hardy herbaceous perennial, chiefly useful for its handsome leaves. Flowers in summer. Height, 4 to 8 ft. Seldom do we see this plant in gardens, though it has fine foliage, distinct from that of any other hardy perennial. The flowers, borne only at the end of the stems, are small but graceful, and prettier when not yet opened ! The leaves are greyish-white, and repel rain like a duck's back, a property called by botanists "glaucous." The stems are covered with a blueish-white powder. 70 EASILY GROWN HARDY PERENNIALS. Speoibs, Etc. — B. cordata (heart-leaved) China, is the test and most cultivated. (See Figs. 39 and 40). It is described above. Culture. — Ordinary soil, but the plants will thrive more FiQ. 39. BoocoNiA CORDATA (Tree Celandine, or Plume Poppy); (Ht. 4 to 8 fc.) vigorously if a good supply of old stable manure be mixed with it in planting. A sunny position is best, especially if moist. This is ensured by the soil being deep. If a sunny position cannot be found moist enough, place them in half shade, where they BOCCONIA CORDATA. 71 will thrive very fairly. In any case it should be as sheltered as possible, to protect the young spring growth. The plant shows off well in shrubberies, or at the edge, or in the back- ground of borders. Plant in March or April, allowing then: Fio. 40. Flowers of Bocconia cwrdata. plenty of room. The stems are best cut down soon after flowering, as the foliage gets shabby towards autumn. Propagation. — The plants grow into larger clumps each year, their greatest height not being reached for three or four seasons after planting. They need not be disturbed for several 72 EASILY GROWN HARDY PERENNIALS. years, unless showing signs of decay. To increase quickly, outlying portions may be dug up deeply and carefully with a spade in March, when the young shoots first show ; or other- wise propagation is best done by removing suckers from the roots in July ; and not so easily, by cuttings, June to August, of the young shoots which grow from above the leaf stalks (axils), planting both in sandy soil, under a bellglass or cold frame, and transplanting in spring (March). Bulbocodium Vernum. — Spring Meadow Saffron. Nat. OsD.-^Liliacece. Deeivatfon. — Lat. bulbos, a bulb, and Gr. kodion, wool ; the bulbs are somewhat woolly ; and Lat. vernus, spring. Habit and Uses. — Dwarf, early spring flowering bulbs. Height, 4 to 6 in. Bulbocodium vernum (Fig. 41), when in bloom, resembles the autumn flowering Meadow SaiTron (Colchicum autumnale). It is a native of Europe, and indi- genous also to the British Isles, but eradicated on account of its poisonous leaves ; a pretty flower, but too coarse to be included .in this work. Bulbocodium has received the same generic English name as the autumn Meadow Saffron, but it is distinguished from it by being spring flowering, quite difierent in foliage, and much smaller in every way. It is a native of Spain. We seldom see it in gardens, perhaps because it is like the Crocuses, and blooms soon after them. But the tint of its red petals is quite peculiar to it and very pretty, a group forming a prominent object. For these reasons it is well worth growing. There is a hardy species, B. trigynum (having three styles), known also as Merendera caucasica. Merendera is the Spanish name for Colchicum. This species grows only 2 in. high, and bears strongly fragrant flowers in May. Flowers, pale lilac. The leaves in both do not appear till some time after flowering, like the Colchicum. Culture. — Although ordinary soil will suflBce, it is well to add half leaf-mould and some sand to it, and place a little BULBOCODIUM VERNUM. 73 extra round each bulb in planting, for drainage and protection from insects. A half shady position is best, since the bulbs like moisture. Grow on border edges or better on the rockery. Plant in September or October, 3 in. deep and 3 in. apart, best in clumps. Not adapted for town gardens. Fig. 41. BnLBOcoDinM vEBunM (Spring Meadow Saffron). (Ht. 4 to 6 in.) Propagation. — The Bulbocodiums increase more quickly than many bulbs, and may therefore require lifting, dividing, and replanting every second year, in the planting months men- tioned. 74 EASILY GROWN HARDY PERENNIALS. Caltha. — Mabsh Marigold. Nat. Oed. — Banunculacece. Derivation. — Gr. kalathos, a goblet ; referring to the of the flowers. Fig. 42. Caltha palusibis plena (Large Double Marsh Marigold). (Ht. 1 ft.) Habit and Uses. — Early spring-flowering, hardy perennial herbaceous plants, with fleshy roots. Height about 1 ft. Most people are acquainted with the wild British Marigold, Caltha CALTHA PALUSTRIS PLENA. 75 paluslris (L&t. marshy), whose golden flowers, Kingcups, as they are called, vexatiously grow in boggy places, and tempt one to gather them, even at the risk of getting wet feet. Its flowers are often hawked about by tramps in the spring, and find a ready sale, especially amongst the fair sex. Cultivated forms of this plant may be easily grown in damp or even ordinary moist parts of gardens, and are very charming in the early part of the year. Species, Etc. — Here we mention only the varieties of the wild form, a native of Great Britain, before noticed, which are the best. All flower in April. They are C. jp. plerta (double -flowered) (Fig. 42) ; C. p. plena monstrosa, (double- flowered, monstrous), a larger plant ; C. p. plena nana (double- flowered, dwarf), a smaller variety, flowering the earliest. There is a white flowered species, G. leptosepala (Lat. slendei sepaled). All are slow growers ; leaves a dark shining green. Culture. — Whilst, as the name implies, a marsh on the edge of a pond is the home of these plants, still they are accommo- dating enough to grow in ordinary soil in gardens, and to flourish there very well, with occasional waterings, especially in summer. Place them, if possible, in a low-lying spot where the rain collects, and in sun, but half shade will do also, if no sunny position moist enough be obtainable. Depth of soil is conducive to their welfare, since the earth is then more likely not to get too dry. They form abundant roots, which strike deep. A liberal supply of old stable manure or leaf -mould assists the retention of moisture, as well as causing luxuriant growth. In dry positions peat mixed liberally with the soil is very beneficial, as being so moisture-retaining, and an inch or two of cocoanut-fibre over the roots, kept well soaked with water in summer, will prevent undue evaporation. Like Narcissi they prefer a clay, wet-holding subsoil. The plants will grow in sunken half-tubs or artificial bog-beds, in which the earth should be kept constantly wet ; or they may be placed close to a buried tub, in which Aquatics are grown. Plant in March, or preferably in October, since the plants bloom in Spring. Propagation. — Do not disturb unless really needed, or you wish to increase them. The long, fleshy roots of well- established clumps only should be divided after flowering, in July or early in March. This is a better way than propagation by seed. 76 EASILY GROWN HARDY PERENNIALS. Calystegia. — Double Bindweed. Nat. Ord. — Convolvulacece. Derivation. — 6r. kalunx, a calyx, and siege, a covered plape or tent ; referring to the two large persistent bracts which en- close the calyx. Fig. 43. Calystegia pobescens plena {I'he Downy Double Bindweed). (Ht. 5 to 6 ft.) Habit and Uses. — Hardy herbaceous, perennial creepers or trailing plants, with fibrous roots, flowering from mid or late summer to early autumn. Height, 5 to 6 ft. CALYSTEGIA PUBESCENS PLENA. 77 Bindweed in a garden sounds outrageous, yet who can but admire the beautiful trumpet-shaped flowers of the single forms ! The genus Calystegia, resembling the wild Convolvu- lus or Bindweed, which is so common in Great Britain and other countries, but separated as a genus from it, boasts one double species at least, whose beauty and claims for a place in the garden are without dispute. The flowers resemble, except in fragrance, little Roses more than anything else. Though a creeper, we include it here amongst other hardy plants, as it does not reach a great height, and can well be placed among other subjects in the border, training its shoots to sticks. It is of the simplest culture, and will grow almost anywhere. A single flower makes a pretty buttonhole, and the heavily-laden stems are pleasing festoons for the vase. Species. — As above stated, G.pubemens plena (Fig. 43), from China, is the only one here mentioned. Culture. — The above species will succeed in ordinary soil, preferring, however, that which is rather sandy. A sunny position is best, though it may be grown well, too, in half shade, but does not flower so freely there. Plant in October, or perhaps better in March. The stems as they show each year can be staked in the positions in which they come up, long uncut bamboo sticks with tapering ends being excellent for the purpose ; or it can be allowed to cover trellis, tree- stumps, porches, and rustic work of any kind, or the standing dead stumps of other plants ; or twiggy branches can be placed within its reach. But as it comes up in a straggling m&nner, soon getting away from where it is first planted, it cannot be relied upon to cover just what is wanted, so the plan of staking it where the shoots show will be found the best. This plant should not be grown in borders containing choice plants ; its roots and shoots will injure the latter. Propagation. — It grows and spreads rapidly, and once put in will be difficult to get rid of (like Bindweeds generally), but stems growing in inconvenient places can be simply pulled up as soon as they appear each year. To increase it, divide the roots in October or March. Any fragment almost will make a new plant, which, if planted in spring, will probably flower the same season. Sow seeds in April, J in. deep in ordinary soil, where they are to grow, or similarly in deep pots of sandy soil, in a green- house or frame, in March, planting out when strong enough. 78 EASILY GROWN HARDY PERENNIALS. Camassia. — Qtjamasb. Nat. Oed.- -lAliacecB. Derivation. — Quamash is the name by which this species is known to the North American Indians, who eat the bulbs. Fio. 44. Camassia bsoulenta atroccebdlea (Qvamash). (Ht. 1 to 3 ft.) Habit and Uses. — Tall, late spring to summer flowering, hardy bulbs. Height, 1, 2, or 3 ft. These bulbs are grown almost as easily as Squills (Scillas), and require much the same treatment. The pretty flowers, which are in fine long heads CAMASSIA ESCULENTA ATROCCERULEA. 79 (spikes) opening from below upwards, do not, unfortunately, last very long, and this is probably the jeason why they are not more grown. They thrive fairly well in suburban gardens. The buds open well in water. Species, Etc. — These are few, the below-mentioned being the best. They flower in May or June. Leaves, Squill like, but much larger. C. esculenta (edible), Columbia, etc., blue- flowered, is one of the finest and best known. Its varieties are : C. e. atrocnerulea (Pig. 44) ; G. e. luteo-alho (yellowish white), with large flowers, 3 in. across ; and C. e. Broionii, deep blue. C. ZeichtUni (Leichtlin's), native of Columbia, grows 2 to 4 ft. if flourishing ; flowers, creamy-white and large ; a robus*- broad-leaved species. 0. Fraseri (Eraser's) ; East-N. America ; grows only 1 ft. high ; flowers, pale blue ; small, slender, and late flowering. Culture. — Grow in good ordinary garden soil, with sand, and as deep as possible, to ensure moisture ; or better in equal parts loam, leaf-mould and coarse sand. G. Leichtlini likes a stiffer and drier soil than the others. A sunny position, if moist enough, is best ; if not, grow in half shade. The site should be as sheltered as possible, in well-drained raised beds, borders, or rockeries. Plant in October or February, 4 in. deep and 4 in. apart, with some extra sand or charcoal round and under each bulb, to prevent rotting and to keep ofi' insects. An inch of cocoanut-fibre refuse overstrewn keeps the soil well moist. A spring top-dressing with old stable manure is beneficial. Propagation. — Do not disturb for 4 or 5 years. It is best then, however, as they get crowded, to lift and replant the bulbs with offsets. Divide in October or February. Sow seeds i^which mature well in warm positions) as soon as ripe, or in March, just below the surface in a sunny spot outdoors ; or in boxes of light sandy soil in a cold frame, or slightly warmed greenhouse heated to a temperature of 55 deg. Fah. 80 EASILY GROWN HARDY PERENNIALS. Campanula — Bellfloweb. Nat. Obd. — CompanulaeecB. Derivation. — Lat. Gampanula, a little bell ; which the flowers resemble. Fig. 45. Campanula olouerata DAHuiaoA [Dahwican BeUJtower). mt. li to 2 ft) Habit and Uses. — ^A hardy, fibrous-rooted genus containing many perennial herbaceous species, which flower in late spring CAMPANULA-BELLFLOWER. 81 to early autumn. Height, 6 in. to 3 ft. There are so many species of hardy perennial Campanulas, that a large collection could be made of them alone. All are easily grown, and will thrive in suburban gardens, the taller sorts furnishing fine cut Fig. 46. Campandla persicijolia alba grandifloba, oh Backhodsei (Peach-leaved Bellflower). (Ht. 1 to 3 ft.) bloom. Broadly speaking, their flowers may be divided into long and narrow, broader and shorter, and shallow saucer-like bells ; or they could be classified as large (2 in. in diameter), medium, and small (not more than J in. across), as in the short G 62 BASIlV 6ROWN HARDY PERENNIALS. forms and the little wild British, etc., Hairbell, C. rotvndifolia (round-leaved). Or again, they may be distinguished as tall, medium, and short growing species (6 in. to 3 ft.); and still another classification would be blue and white flowered. In this work we will restrict ourselves to a few of the better Fia. 47. Campanula Van Houttei pallida ( Van HouUe's BeUJlower) , (Ht. 1 to 3 ft. ) known and easily cultivated species, and some of their varieties. We have been able to illustrate only a few from want of space," but these will show the chief forms of the flowers. For tKe rest refer to larger works and florists' catalogues. All have a CAMPANULA-BELLFLOWER, 83 common family resemblance, and it would be difficult to assign a special place to any, individual taste for form, size and colour being so variable. Perennial Species. — The flowers in all are five-toothed, and more or less nodding, and last a fortnight or more (especially if in half shade), appearing from April to August. The leaves in many are practically evergreen, are smaller on the flower stems, also often of a different shape to the radical ones. We select the following : — (1) Height, 1^ to 2 ft. or more, suited for beds or borders or rough parts of the garden. The flower stems may require support. C. glomerata (cluster-flowered) ; Europe, and Russian Asia, wild in some parts of Britain. It has many varieties, of which G. (J. dalmrica (Dahur's) or speeiosa (showy) rich purple, is illustrated (Fig. 45). It is a fine border plant, and very floriferous. There is a white variety, G. g. d. alba. They arc some of the earliest of the Campanulas. C. persicifoUa (peach- leaved ; Lat, persica, the Peach tree), Europe ; white to blue, with several varieties ; the best being a white, G. p. alba ; also a larger white form, G. p. a. grandiflora or Baekhousei (Backhouse's), which is illustrated (Fig. 46) ; and a double white C. p. a. plena, whose flowers resemble little Camellias. Another white form of it, C. p. coronata alba, has flowers frilled at the back. These are all fine border plants, about 2 ft. high, flowering from June to August. C. Scheucliztri (Scheuchzer's), South European Alps, is shorter than the above, 12 to 15 in., dark blue, July to August. The following are hybrids: C ZTew&riJow* (Henderson's) 12 to 15 in., blue, July to August ; C. Van Houttei (Van Houtte's) of which the variety pallida is illustrated (Fig. 47). The latter is a lovely- shaped flower of a soft colour, the bells hanging as bells should do, straight down. They are much frequented by bees. The flowers are, however, apt to get scorched at the edge by the sun, which may be somewhat avoided by placing the plants in half shade. The handsome Canterbury Bell, G. media {medium sized) is a biennial, properly speaking. If, however, it survives the winter, it forms splendid plants the next season. (2) Height, 6 to 9 in. Suited for the rockery or the ledge of a raised border. Being short they will require no support. They produce quantities of flowers for a long period. C. garganiea (from Gargano in Italy), 6 in., blue, August to G 2 84 EASILY GRO"^m HARDY PERENNIALS. September, and a white variety, 0. g. alba; C. ccvrpathica (Carpathian), 9 in., blue, of which a white variety, G. c. alba, is illustrated (Fig. 48). C. muralis (wall-loving) or PortensMagiana (Portenschlager's), South Europe, 6 in., blue, June to October; Fio. 48. Caufanula Oakpathica turbinata alba (Carpathian Bdlflower), (Ht. 9 in.) C. Eosti alba (Host's white), G. F. Wilson, and pumila (dwarf), South Europe, are popular kinds. All these make a good ■ show the first season of planting. We would here include the CAMPANULA-BELLFLOWER, R5 blue British ivy-leaved Campanula (C. hederacea), a diminutive perennial species, only 4 in. high, but of the greatest beauty. It delights in a moist shady spot. C. Mariesi (Maries') is a recently introduced form of 0. grandiflorum (large-flowered), the Chinese Bellflower, sometimes called the Balloon Flower. The buds curiously resemble a diminutive balloon. The seed cases are remarkably like those of the Rose. Its place amongst Campanulas from the genus Platycodon, has been much disputed. The flowers are 2 to 3 in. across, of a peculiar metallic dark blue colour, and very large and hand- some. Height, 1 ft. There is a white variety. July. They do not flower their best till established two or three seasons, and are not easy to grow outdoors. Culture. — Any good ordinary garden soil, preferably some- what sandy, and rich with old stable manure, or decayed garden sweepings will suffice. The tall kinds do best in sunny beds or borders, or in partial shade where the flowers are better preserved ; or shrubbery edges, or in wild parts of the garden, where their straggling clumps can grow undisturbed. The short and trailing kinds succeed best on rockeries in full sun, or on the ledge of raised borders facing south or thereabouts. Plant in October or April. Peopagation. — If the soil be good they will grow on almost indefinitely, forming irregular clumps. To increase portions may be dug up, or the whole plants divided in October, or preferably in April. Seeds may be sown in August or March Ya in. deep in sandy soil, in a greenhouse (temp. 55°). The seeds of G. persicifolia and varieties may be sown outdoors in a shady border at first. These and some of the others may seed themselves if the ground around them be not dug. Take cuttings of young shoots in April or March, and insert them in light soil in a cold frame. Division is the simplest way, but cuttings also are very successful. Pot Culture. — A much grown form for a hanging pot is G. isophylla (equal leaved), or flonbunda (numerous flowered) ; also the Ligurian Hairbell, which is covered with small salver- shaped flowers, varieties blue and white, in August. It is hardy, but will not live except on a well-drained spot in sandy soil, being easily killed off by wet. C. pyramidalis (pyramidal), the Chimney Bellflower (so called because of its tafl flower stems rising 4 to 5 ft. high, opening at first below, 86 EASILY GROWN HARDY PERENNIALS. and then irregularly), varieties blue or white, July to autumn, is another favourite pot variety. This species may also be grown outdoors in some parts to form large clumps, but it too is easily killed by the wet of winter. The root-stocks should be kept well above ground, and the stems cut down early, to favour root growth. It requires a well-drained sandy soil, and deep for the long tapering roots. Divide yearly, immediately after flowering. Outdoors, it is generally treated as a biennial. Cuttings of the young shoots from the woody crown, including a little bark, may be taken in spring, or the seeds sown in pots in a cold frame in March, the plants flowering well the next season. Keep the plants in a cold frame during the winter, and repot firmly the next spring, or plant out. Any of the other Campanulas can be grown in pots. Compost for all : equal parts leaf-mould, loam, and sand ; -grow the short and trailing kinds in small pots, suspended in baskets on a wire frame. Pot in March and repot at the same time each year. Water moderately in winter, freely at other times. Grow the tall kinds singly in a 5 in., or three in a 7 in. pot. Sow seeds of these in a cold frame in August. Transplant the seedlings singly into 3 in. pots in October, again into 5 in. pots in April, and finally into a 7 in. pot in May. Catananche. — Copidone, or Blue Succory. Nat. Oed. — Gompodtm. Derivation. — Gr. Katananglee, a word implying the former use of the plants by the Greek women as a strong love-pro- ducing drink ; an idea also conveyed by the English name Cupidone. The flowers much resemble those of the Chicory, Succory, or wild Endive (Oiehorium), a pretty blue-flowered perennial, found on dry wastes and roadsides in summer and autumn, in some parts of Great Britain, Europe, and Asia. Habit and Uses. — -Mid or late summer flowering, hardy herbaceous perennials, having long fibrous roots. Height, 2 to 3 ft. Though of the numerous Composite order, the flowers are quite distinct in appearance and very pretty. They are CATANANCHE BICOLOR. 87 somewhat like the half-hardy annual Everlastings (Heli- chrysum, Rhodanthe, etc.), but cannot be preserved, like them. The plants are easily grown in almoat any garden, and are well worth attention, the more so as the long stalks suit the Fig. 49. Catananche bicolor {Blue Sueeory, or Cupidone).'