BOUGHT WITH THE INCOME FROM THE SAGE ENDOWMENT FUND THE GIFT OF Hettrg W, BdQe 1891 .Jf,..£.J.'f..Z.'7..l ^AJvIa^ 3513-1 Cornell University Library SB 434.W87 Hardy perennials and old-fashioned garde 3 1924 002 825 044 Cornell University Library The original of this book is in the Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924002825044 Hard\J Perennials and 01d«fashioned Garden Flowers. A CORNER OF THE AUTHOR'S GARDEN AT KIRKSTALL. Hardy Perennials and Old-fashioned Garden Flowers. Describing the Most Desirable Plants for Borders, Rockeries, and Shrubberies, AND INCLUDING BOTH FOLIAQE AND FlOWERINQ PlANTS. 5\J John Wood. ILLUSTRATED. Xon&on : L. UPCOTT GILL, 170, STRAND, W.C. LONDON : 1.. UPCOTT GILL, LONDON AND CODNTY PKINTING WOBKS, DRURY LANE, W.C. PREFACE. <»<«<► At the present time there is a growing desire to patronise perennial plants, more especially the many and beautiful varieties known as " old-fashioned flowers." Not only do they deserve to be cultivated on their individual merits, but for other very important reasons ; they afford great variety of form, foliage, and flower, and compared with annual and tender plants, they are found to give much less trouble. If a right selection is made and properly planted, the plants may be relied upon to appear with perennial vigour and produce flowers more or less throughout the year. I would not say bouquets may be gathered in the depth of winter, but what will be equally cheering may be had in blow, such as the Bluet, Violet, Primrose, Christmas Eose, Crocus, Hepatica, Squills, Snowdrops, and other less known winter bloomers. It does not seem to be generally understood that warm nooks and corners, under trees or walls, serve to produce in winter flowers which usually appear in spring when otherwise placed. There are many subjects which, from fine habit and foliage, even when flowerless, claim notice, and they, too, are described PREFACE. Many gardens are very small, but these, if pro- perly managed, have their advantages. The smaller the garden the more choice should be the collection, and the more highly should it be cultivated. I shall be glad if anything I say tends in this direction. Prom my notes of plants useful memoranda may be made, with the object of adding a few of the freest bloomers in each month, thus avoiding the error often committed of growing such subjects as mostly flower at one time, after which the garden has a forlorn appearance. The plants should not be blamed for this; the selection is at fault. No amount of time and care can make a garden what it should be if untidy and weedy plants prevail. On the otl^er hand, the most beautiful species, both as regards foliage and flowers, can be just as easily cultivated. The object of this small work is to furnish the names and descriptions of really useful and reliable Hardy and Perennial Plants, suitable for all kinds of flower gardens, together with definite cultural hints on each plant. Perhaps flowers were never cultivated of more di- versified kinds than at the present time ; and it is a legitimate and not uncommon question to ask, " What do you grow ? " Not only have we now the lovers of the distinct and showy, but numerous admirers of such species as need to be closely examined, that their beautiful and interesting features may gladden and stir the mind. The latter class of plants, without doubt, is capable of giving most pleasure ; and to meet the grow- ing taste for these, books on flowers must necessarily treat upon the species or varieties in a more detailed manner, in order to get at their peculiarities and re- quirements. The more we learn about our flowers the more we enjoy them ; to simply see bright colours and pretty forms is far from all the pleasure we may reap in our gardens. If I have not been able to give scientific information, possibly that of a practical kind may be of some use, as for many years, and never more than now, I have enjoyed the cultivation of flowers with my own hands. To be able to grow a plant well is of the highest im- portance, and the first step towards a full enjoyment of it. I have had more especially in view the wants of the less experienced Amateur; and as all descriptions and modes of culture are given from specimens suc- cessfully grown in my own garden, I hope I may have at least a claim to being practical. I have largely to thank several correspondents of many years' standing for hints and information incor- porated in these pages. J. WOOD. WOODVILLE, KlEKSTALL. • > —»- < • Hardy Perennials OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWERS. Acaena Novae Zealandiae. Otherwise A. Miceophtlla; Nat. Ord. Sanquisoebb^, or Rose Family. The plant, as may be seen by tlie illustration (Fig. 1), is small, and its flowers are microscopic, liax-dly having tie appearance of flowers, even when minutely examined, but when the bloom has faded there is a rapid growth, the calyces forming a stout set of long spines ; these, springing from the globular head in considerable numbers, soon become pleasingly conspicuous, and this is by far the more ornamental stage of the plant. It is hardy, evergreen, and creeping. It seldom rises more than one or two inches from the ground, and only when it approaches a wall, stones, or some such fixed body, does it show an inclination to climb ; it is, therefore, a capital rook plant. As implied by its specific name, it comes fi-om New Zealand, and has not long been acclimatised in this country. The flowers are produced on fine wiry stems an inch or more long, being nearly erect ; they are arranged in round heads, at first about the size of a small pea ; these, when bruised, have an ammoniacal smell. Each minute flower has four green petals and brownish seed organs, which cause the knob of flowers to have a rather grimy look, and a calyx which is very hard and stout, having two scales and four sepals. These sepals are the B 2 HAEDT PERENNIALS AND parts whicli, after tlie seed organs have performed their func- tions, become eloi^gated and of a fine rosy-crimson colour ; they form stiff and rather stout spines, often Jin. long ; they bristle evenly from every part of the little globe of seed vessels, and are very pretty. The spines are produced in great abundance, and they may be out freely ; their effect is unique when used for table decoration, stuck in tufts of dark green selaginella. On the plant they keep in good form for two months. The leaves are lin. to 2in. long, pinnate ; the leaflets are of a dark bronzy colour on the upper side and a pale green underneath, like Fia. 1. Ac£NA Nov^ Zealakbis:. (One-haU natural size.) maidenhair, which they also resemble in form, being nearly round and toothed. They are in pairs, with a terminal odd one ; they are largest at the extremity, and gradually lessen to rudi- mentary leaflets ; the foliage is but sparingly produced on the creeping stems, which root as they creep on the surface. The habit of the plant is compact and custion-like, and the brilliant spiny balls are well set off on the bed of fern-like but sombre foliage. During August it is one of the most efEective plants m the rock garden, where I find it to do well in either moist or dry situations ; it grows fast, and, being evergreen, it is one of the more useful creepers for all-the-year-round effect ; for covering dormant bulbs or bare places it is at once efficient and beautiful. It requires light soil, and seems to enpy grit ; OLD-FASHIONED GABDEN FLOWERS. O nowhere does it appear in better Lealtli or more at home than when carpeting the walk or track of the rook garden. It is self -propagating, but when it is desirable to move a tuft of it, it should be done during the growing season, so that it may begin to root at once and get established, otherwise the wind and frosts will displace it. It blooms from June to September, more or less, but only the earliest flowers produce well-coloured spines. Achillea /Egypttca. Egyptian Taeeow ; Nat. Ord. Composite. This is an evergreen (though herb-like) species. It has been grown for more than 200 years in English gardens, and origin- ally came, as its name implies, from Egypt. Notwithstaiiding the much warmer climate of its native country, it proves to be one of the hardiest plants in our gardens. I dare say many will think the Yarrows are not worthy of a place in the garden ; but it should not be forgotten that not only are fine and useful flowers included in this work, but also the good " old- fashioned " kinds, and that a few such are to be found amongst the Yarrows is without doubt. Could the reader see the collection now before me, cut with a good piece of stem and some foliage, and pushed into a deep vase, he would not only own that they were a pleasing contrast, but quaintly grand for indoor decoration. A. Mgyptica not only produces a rich yellow flower, but the whole plant is ornamental, having an abundance of finely- cut foliage, which, from a downy or nappy covering, has a pleasing grey or silvery appearance. The flowers are produced on long stems nearly 2ft. high, furnished at the nodes with clean grey tufts of smaller-sized leaves ; near the top the stems are all but naked, and are terminated by the flat heads or corymbs of closely-packed flowers. They are individually small, but the corymbs wiU be from 2in. to Sin. across. Their form is that of the common Yarrow, but the colour is a bright light yellow. The leaves are 6in. to Sin. long, narrow and pinnate, the leaflets of irregular form, variously toothed andlobed; the whole foliage is soft to the touch, from the nappy covering, as already mentioned. Its flowers, from their extra fine colour, are very telling in a cut state. The plant is suitable for the borders, more especially amongst other old kinds. Ordinary garden loam suits it, and its propagation may be carried out at any time by root division. Flowering period, June to September. 62 4 HAEDT PEBENNIALS AND Achiliea Filipendula. Nat. Ord. Composite. This grows 4ft. high, and the foliage, though fern-like, has an untidy appearance, from the irregular way in which it is dis- posed. It is herhaceous, and comes from the Caucasus. The flowers are somewhat singular, arranged in corymbs of a mul- tiplex character; they are very large, often Sin. across. The smaller corymbs are arched or convex, causing the cluster or compound corymb to present an uneven surface; the small flowers are of rich old gold colour, and have the appearance of knotted gold cord ; they are very rigid, almost hard. The leaves are linear, pinnate, lobed and serrated, hairy, rough, and numerously produced. From the untidy and tall habit of this subject, it should be planted in the background ; its flowers, however, will claim a prominent position in a cut state ; they are truly rich, the undulating corymbs have the appearance of embossed gold plate, and their antique colour and form are compared to gold braid by a lady who admires "old-fashioned " flowers. It will last for several weeks after being cut, and even out of water for many days. A few heads placed in an old vase, without any other flowers, are rich and characteristic, whilst on bronze figures and ewers in a dry state, and more especially on ebony or other black decorations, it may be placed with a more than floral effect. In short, rough as the plant is, it is worth growing for its quaint and rich flowers alone ; it is seldom met with. Soil and propagation, the same as for A. JEgyptica. Flowering period, June to September. Achillea Millefolium. Common Milfoil ; Nat. Ord. Composite. This is the well-known wild Tan-ow ; it is, however, the typical form of a fine variety, called A. m. roseum, having very bright rose-coloured flowers, which in all other respects resembles the wild form. Both as a border subject and for cutting purposes, I have found it useful; it flowers for several months, but the individual blooms fade in four or six days; these should be regularly removed. The freshly-opened corymbs are much admired. Soil and mode of propagation, the same as for pre- vious kinds. Flowering period, June to November. Achillea Ptarmica. Si/»s. A. Stlvestbis omdPTAEMiOAVrLGARis; Common Names, Wild Takeow, Snbezbwoet, Goose-tongve, and Wild Pellitoey; Nat. Ord. Composit.s:. A very common British plant, or, I may say, weed, which can OLD-PASHIONED GAEDEN FLOWERS. 5 live in the most reeky towns, only mentioned tere to introduce A. P.fl.-pl., wMch is one of the most useful of border flowers. I am bound to add, however, that only when in flower is it more presentable than the weedy and typical form; but the grand masses of pure white bachelors'-button-like flowers, which are produced for many weeks in succession, render this plant desei-ving of a place in every garden, It is a very old flower in English gardens. Some 250 years ago Parkinson referred to the double flowering kind, in his " Paradise of Pleasant Flowers," as a then common plant ; and I may as well produce Gerarde's description of the typical form, which answers, in all respects, for the double one, with the exception of the flowers themselves : " The small Sneesewoort hath many rounde and brittle braunches, beset with long and narrowe leaues, hackt about the edges like a sawe ; at the top of the stalkes do grow smal single flowers like the fielde Daisie. The roote is tender and full of strings, creeping f arre abroade m the earth, and in short time occupieth very much grounde." The flowers of this plant are often, but wrongly, called " bachelors' buttons," which they much resemble. For cutting purposes, this plant is one of the most useful ; not only are the blooms a good white, but they have the quality of keeping clean, and are produced in greater numbers than ever I saw them on the single form. Those requiring large quantities of white flowers could not do better than give the plant a few square yards in some unfrequented part of the garden ; any kind of soil will suit it, but if enriched the bloom will he all the better for it. The roots run freely just under the surface, so that a large stock may soon be had ; yet, fine as are its flowers, hardy and spreading as the plant proves, it is but sgldom met with. Even in small gardens this fine old flower should be allowed a little space. Transplant any time. Flowering period, June to August. Aconitum Autumnale. Autumn Monk's-hood; Nat. Ord. Eanunculace.*:. Haedt, perennial, and herbaceous. This is one of the finest subjects for autumn flowering. The whole plant, which stands nearly 3ft. high, is stately and distinct (Fig. 2) ; the leaves are dark green, large, deeply cut and veined, of good substance, and slightly drooping. The flowers are a fine blue (a colour some- what scarce in our gardens at that season), irregularly arranged on very stout stems; in form they exactly resemble a monk's hood, and the manner in which they are held from the stems further accords with that likeness. These rich flowers are numerously produced ; a three-year-old plant will have as many as six stout stems all well furnished, rendering the specimen very conspicuous. HARDT PEBENNlAliS AND This is one form of the Monk's-hood long grown in English gardens, and is called " old-fashioned." A. japonicum, according to some, is identical with it, but whether that is so or not, there is but a slight difference, and both, of course, are good. I find it likes a rich deep soil. It is propagated by division of the roots after the tops have turned yellow in autumn or winter. It flowers from August until cut down by frosts. Allium Moly. Laege Yellow Garlic; Nat. Ord. LlLIACE^. A HAEDT bulbous perennial, of neat habit, with bright golden flowers, pro- duced in large heads ; they endure a long time and are very effective ; it is by far the best yellow species. Where bold clumps of yellow are desirable, especially if somewhat in the back- ground, there can be few subjects more suitable for the purpose than this plant ; both leaves and flowers, however, have a disagreeable odour, if in the least bruised. It is a very old plant in English gardens, and is a native of the South of Europe. Its chief merits are fine colour, large head, neat habit, and easy culture. The flowers are lin. across, borne in close heads, having stalks over an inch long springing from stout scapes ; the six long oval petals are of a shining yellow colour ; the seed organs also are all yellow and half the length of petals ; the scape is about a foot high, naked, round, and very stout ; the leaves are nearly as broad as tulip leaves, and otherwise much resemble them. Flowering period, June to August. ri8. 2. ACONITDM ADTtTMHALE. (About one-tenth natural size.) Allium Neapolitanum. Neapolitan ALLim; Nat. Ord. Liliace^. This has pure white flowers arranged in neat and effective umbels, and though not so useful in colour as the flowers of A. Moly, they are much superior to those of many of the genus. Flowering period, June to August. OLD-FASHIONED GA&DEN ftOWERS. t Both of the above Alliums may be grown in any odd parts wliicli need decorating witli subjects requiring little care ; any kind of soil will do for tbem, but if planted too near the walks the flowers are liable to be cut by persons who may not be aware of their evil odour. The bulbs may be divided every three years with advantage, and may be usefully planted in lines in front of shrubs, or mixed with other strong-growing flowers, such as alkanets, lupins, and foxgloves. Alyssum Saxatile. Rock Madwort, or Golden Ttjft; Nat. Ord. Ceucifeb^. This pleasing and well-known hardy, evergreen, half-woody shmb is always a welcome flower. From its quantity of bloom Fis. 3, Alysshu Sazatilb, (One-tliird natural size). all its other parts are literally smothered (see Fig. 3). When passing large pieces of it in full blow, its fragrant honey smell reminds one of summer clover fields. 8 HAEDT PERENNIALS AND Its golden yeUow flowers are densely produced m panicles on procumbent stems, 12m. to 18in. long Tte little flo^«-«.J^om Ltinct notches in tlie petals, have a di^erent appearan^e from many of the order Crucifem, as, unless they are well e^.^nded •^ there seem to he eight mstead of four petals. The leaves are inversely ovate, lanceolate, vUlose, and slightly toothed. A specimen wiU continue in good form during average weather for about three weeks. It is not only seen to most advantage on rockwork, where its prostrate stems can faU over the stones, but the diy situation is in accordance with its requirements; still, it is not at all particular, but does well in any sunny situation, in any soil that is not over moist or iU drained. It is easily and quickly propagated by cuttings in early summer. Floweringperiod, April and May. Anchusa Italica. Italian Alkanet ; Nat. Ord. BOEAGINACEa;. A HAEDT herbaceous peren- nial of first-class merit for gardens where there is plenty of room ; amongst shrubs it will not only prove worthy of the situation, but, being a ceaseless bloomer, its tall and leafy stems decked with brilliant flowers may always be reKed upon for cutting purposes ; and let me add, as, perhaps, many have never tried this fine but common flower in a large vase, the stems, if cut to the length of 18in., and loosely placed in an old- fashioned vase, without any other flowers, are more than orna- mental — they are fine. Jts niain features ^re seeift in its bold leafy stems, furnished with Pio. i. Anchdsa Itaiica (Flower Spray). (One-third natural size.) OLD-FASHIONED GAEDEW FLOWERS. 9 large, dark blue, forget-me-not-like flowers, nearly all their length. The little white eyes of the blossoms are very telling (see Kg. 4). The flowers are held well out from the large leaves of the main stem by smaller ones (from lin. to Sin. long), at the ends of which the buds and flowers are clustered, backed by a pair of small leaflets, like wings. Just before the buds open they are of a bright rose colour, and when the flowers fade the leafy calyx completely hides the withered parts, and other blooms take their places between the wing-like pair of leaflets ; so the succession of bloom is kept up through the whole summer. The leaves of the root are very large when fuUy grown during summer — over a foot long — those of the stems are much less; all are lance- shaped and pointed, plain at the edges, very hairy, and of a dark green colour. The stems are numerous, upright, and, as before hinted, branched ; also, like the leaves, they are covered with stiff hairs, a characteristic common to the order. Well- established plants will grow to the height of 3ft. to 5ft. Flowering period. May to September. Anchusa Sempervirens. Nat. Ord. Boeaginace^. This is a British species, and, as its name denotes, is evergreen ; not, let me add, as a tall plant, for the stems wither or at least become very sere, only the large leaves of the root remaining fresh ; and though it has many points of difference from A. Italica, such as shorter growth, darker flowers and foliage, and more oval leaves — these form the distinctions most observable. By its evergreen quality it is easily identified in winter. There is also an important difference from the axillary character of the flower stems. With these exceptions the description of A. Italica will fairly hold good for this native species. This Alkanet has various other names, as Borago sempervirens, Buglossum s., and with old writers it, together with allied species, was much esteemed, not only for the flowers, but for its reputed medicinal properties. To those who care to grow these good old plants I would say, well enrich the soil; when so treated, the results are very different from those where the plants have been put in hungry and otherwise neglected situa- tions ; this favourable condition may be easily afforded, and will be more than repaid. Strong roots may be transplanted at any time, and propagation is more quickly carried out by division of the woody roots, which should be cut or split so that each piece has a share of bark and a crown. Just before new growth has begun, as in January, is the best time for this operation, so that there is no chance of rot from dormancy. Flowering period, May to September. 10 HARDY PERENNIALS AND Andromeda Tetragona. 8yn. Cassiopb Tetragona; Nat. Ord. EaiCACEiE. A DWARF hardy evergreen slirub, which comes to ns from Lapland and North. America; though a very beautiful subject for either rockwork or border, it is rarely seen. It is not one of the easiest plants to grow, which may, to some extent, account for its rarity. Still, when it can have its requirements, it not only thrives well, but its handsome form and flowers repay any extra trouble it may have given. In the culture of this, as of most plants of the order JEricacece, there is decidedly a right way and a wrong one, and if the species now under consideration has one or two special requirements it deserves them. Fig. 5. Andromeda Tetragoka. (One-half natural size). With me it never exceeds a height of 6in. or 7in., is much branched, and of a fine apple green colour; the flowers are small but very beautiful, bell-shaped, pendent, and springing from the leafy stems of the previous year's growth. The leaves are small as well as curious, both in form and arrangement, completely hiding their stems ; their roundish grain-shaped forms are evenly arranged in fom- rows extending throughout the whole length of the branches (whence the name tetragona), giving them a square appearance resembling an ear of wheat, OLD-FASHIONED GAEDEN FLOWERS. 11 but mvLch less stout (see Pig. 5) ; the little leaves, too, are frosted somewliat in the way of many of the saxifrages. It is next to impossible to describe this pretty shrub; fortunately, the cut will convey a proper idea at a glance. All who possess more select coUpctions of hardy plants and shrubs should not fail to include this ; it is fit for any collection of fifty choice species. I struggled long before finding out the right treatment, as presumably I now have, yet it is very simple, m fact, only such as many other plants should have ; but, unlike them, A. tetragona will take no alternative ; it must have partial shade, sandy peat or leaf soil, and be planted in a moist or semi-bog situation. On the raised parts of rockwork it became burnt up; planted in loam, though light, it was dormant as a stone ; in pots, it withered at the tips; but, with the above treatment, I have flowers and numerous branchlets. Many little schemes may be improvised for the accommodation of this and similar subjects. Something of the bog character would appear to be the difficulty here ; a miniature one' may be made in less than half an hour. Next the walk dig a hole 18in. all ways, fiU in with sandy peat, make it firm ; so form the surface of the walk that the water from it will eddy or turn in. In a week it will have settled ; do not fill it up, but leave it dished and put in the plant. Gentians, pyrolas, calthas, and even the bog pimpernel I have long grown so. A. tetragona can be propagated by division of the roots, but such division should not be attempted with other than a per- fectly healthy plant. It should be done in spring, just as it begins to push, which may be readily seen by the bright green tips of the branchlets ; and it is desirable, when replanting, to put the parts a little deeper, so as to cover the dead but per- sistent leaves about the bottoms of the stems which occur on the parts four or more years old. After a year, when so planted, I have found good roots emitted from these parts, and, doubtless, such deeper planting will, in some way, meet its requirements, as in this respect they are provided for in its habitats by the annual and heavy fall of leaves from other trees which shade it. Flowering period, April and May. Anemone Alpina. Alpine Windflowee ; Nat. Ord. Rantnctjlace^. Feom Austria, the foliage closely resembling that of A. sulphurea, but the flowers are larger and of various colours. It is said to he the parent of A. sulphurea. It flowers in June. See A. sulphurea. 12 HAEDT PEEENNIALS AND Anemone Apennina. Mountain Windflowbe ; Nat. Ord. Ranttnctjlace^. This is one of tlie " old-fasliioned " flowers of our gardens — ^in fact, a native species, having a black tuberous root, whict forms a distinct, though invisible characteristic of the species. As the old names are somewhat descriptive, I give them — viz.. Gera- nium-leaved Anemone, and Stork's-bill Windfiower. The appearance of a bold piece of this plant when in flower is exceedingly cheerful ; the soft-looking feathery foliage foi-ms a rich groundwork for the lavish number of flowers, which vary much in colour, from sky-blue to nearly white, according to the number of days they may have been in blow, blue being the opening colour. The flowers are produced singly on stems, 6m. high, and ornamented with a whorl of finely-cut leaflets, stalked, lobed, and toothed ; above this whorl the ruddy flower stem is much more slender. During sunshine the flowers are IJin. across the tips of sepals, becoming reflexed. The foliage, as before hinted, is in the form of a whoil, there being no root leaf, and the soft appearance of the whole plant is due to its downiness, which extends to and includes the calyx. The lobes of the leaves are cupped, but the leaves themselves reflex until their tips touch the ground, whence their distinct and pleasing form. This plant is most at home in the half shade of trees, where its flowers retain their blue colour longer. It should be grown in bold patches, and in free or sandy soU. The tubers may be ti'ansplanted soon after the tops have died off in late summer. Flowering period, April and May. Anemone Blanda. Faib Windplowee, or Bltje Geecian Anemone ; Nat. Ord. Ranunculace^. This is a lovely winter flower, of great value in our gardens, from its showiness. It is a recent introduction from the warmer climes of the South of Europe and Asia Minor ; and though it is not so vigorous under cultivation in our climate as most Windflowers, it proves perfectly hardy. A little extra care should be taken in plantmg it as regards soil and position, in order to grow it well. It belongs to that section of its numerous genus having an involucrum of stalked leaflets. The flowers are produced on stalks, 4in. to 6in. high ; they are nearly 2in. across, of a fine deep blue colour; the sepals are numerous and narrow, in the way of A. stellata, or star anemone. The leaves are triternate, divisions deeply cut and acute; the leaves of the involucrum are stalked, trifid, and deeply cut. The whole plant much resembles A. Apennina. Where it can OLH-FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWERS. 13 be established, it must prove one of tbe most useful flowers, and to possess such charming winter blossom is worth much effort in affording it suitable conditions. The soil should be rich, light, and well drained, as sandy loam, and if mixed with plenty of leaf soil all the better. The position should be sheltered, other- wise this native of warm countries wiU have its early leaves and flowers damaged by the wintry blast, and the evil does not stop there, for the check at such a period interferes with the root development, and repetitions of such damage drive the plants into a state of " dwindling," and I may add, this is the condition in which this plant may frequently be seen. Many of the Anemones may be planted without much care, other than that of giving them a little shade from sunshine. The present subject, however, being so early, is not likely to obtain too much bright weather, but rather the reverse. If, then, it is planted in warm quarters, it may be expected to yield its desirable flowers in average quantity compared with other Windflowers, and in such proportion will its roots increase. The latter may be divided (providing they are of good size and healthy) when the leaves have died off. Flowering period, February and March. Anemone Coronaria. POPPT-LIEB WlNDFLOWEE; Nat. Ord. RAinjNCtrLACE.ffi!. Haedt and tui-berous. The illustration (Fig. 6) is of the double form, in which it may frequently be seen; also in many colours, as blue, purple, white, scarlet, and striped; the same colours may be found in the single and semi-double forms. There are many shades or half colours, which are anything but pleasing, and where such have established themselves, either as seedlings or othei-wise, they should be weeded out, as there are numerous distinct hues, which may just as easily be cultivated. The great variety in colour and form of this Anemone is perhaps its most peculiar characteristic ; for nearly 300 years it has had a place in English gardens, and came originally from the Levant. Its habit is neat ; seldom does it reach a foot in height, the flowers being produced terminally; they are poppy-like, and 2in. to Sin. across, having six sepals. The leaves are temate, segments numerous ; each leaf springs from the tuber, with the exception of those of the involucre. In planting this species, it should be kept in mind that it neither likes too much sunshine nor a light soil ; under such con- ditions it may exist, but it will not thrive and scarcely ever flower. When the tuberous roots have become devoid of foliage they may be lifted, and if they have grown to a size exceeding Sin. long and lin. in diameter, they may be broken in halves with advantage ; the sooner they are put back into the ground the 14 HAEDY PEEENNIAiS AND better ; slight shade from the mid-day sun and good loam will be found to suit them best. When the various colours are kept separate, bold clumps of a score or so of each are very efPective ; mixed beds are gay, almost gaudy ; but the grouping plan is so much better, that, during the blooming period, it is worth the trouble to mark the different colours, with a view to sorting them at the proper time. Fig. 6. Anemone Cobonabxa FlobB'PLbho. (One-third natural size.) The nutty roots are often eaten by earth vermin, especially wireworm. Whenever there is occasion to lift the roots it is a good plan to dress them, by repeated dips in a mixture of clay and soot, until they are well coated ; they should be allowed to dry for a short time between each dip ; this will not only be found useful in keeping off wireworm and similar pests, but will otherwise benefit the plants as a manure. Flowering period. May and June. OLD-PASHIONED GARDEN FLOWEES. 15 Anemone Decapetala. Nat. Ord. Rantinctjlace^. New, from Nortli America ; lias a deteriorated resemblance to A. alpina and A. sulpliurea (wMcli see). The foliage is much, less ; the flower stems are numerous, close together, stout, and 9in. to 12in. high ; they are also branched, but not spreading. The flowers have seven to ten sepals, are an inch across, and of a creamy white colour. The heads of seed are more interesting than their flowers ; they form cotton-like globes, IJin. diameter, and endure in that state for a fortnight. I was inclined to discard this species when I first saw its dumpy and badly- coloured flowers, but the specimen was left in the ground, and time, which has allowed the plant to become more naturally established, has also caused it to produce finer bloom, and it is now a pleasing and distinct species of an interesting character. The same treatment will answer for this species as for A. sulphurea. All the Anemones may be pi-opagated by seeds or division of the roots. The latter method should only be adopted in the case of strong roots, and their division will be more safely effected in early spring, when they can start into growth at once. Flowering period. May to June. Anemone Fulgens. Shining WiNDFLOWEE ; Nat. Ord. RANiJNOcrLACE.ffl;. This is a variety of A. hortensis or A. vavonina, all of which much resemble each other. This very showy flower is much and deservedly admired. In sheltered quarters or during mild seasons it will flower at Christmas and con- tinue to bloom for several months. It will be seen by the illustration (Fig. 7) to be a plant of neat habit, and for efllect and usefulness it is one of the very best flowers that can be introduced into the garden, especially the spring garden, as there is scarcely another of its colour, and certainly not one so floriferous and durable. Though it has been in English gardens over fifty years, it seems as if only recently its real worth has been discovered. It is now fast becom- in<^ a universal favourite. The flowers are 2in. across, and of a Fia. 7. Anemose PnLBEHs. (Plant, one-eighth natural size.) 16 HARDY PERENNIALS AND most brilliant scarlet colour, produced singly on tall naked stems, nearly a foot higli. They vary in number of sepals, some being semi-double. The foliage is bright and compact, more freely produced than that of most Windflowers ; it is also richly cut. It may be grown in pots for conservatory or indoor decora- tion. It needs no f oi'cing for such purposes ; a cold frame will prove sufficient to bring out the flowers in winter. Borders or the moist parts of rockwork are suitable for it ; but perhaps it is seen to greatest advantage in irregular masses in the half shade of trees in front of a shrubbery, and, after all, it is impossible to plant this flower wrong, as regards efEect. To grow it well, how- ever, it must have a moist situation, and good loam to grow in. It is easily propagated by division of strong healthy roots in autumn. Flowering period, January to June, according to position and time of planting. Anemone Japonica. Japan Windflower ; Nat. Ord. Rawttnculace^. This and its varieties are hardy perennials of the most reliable kinds ; the typical form has flowers of a clear rose colour. A. j. vitifolia has larger flowers of a fine bluish tint, and seems to be the hybrid between the type and the most popular variety, viz., A. j. alba — Honorine Jobert — (see Fig. 8). So much has this grown in favour that it has nearly monopolised the name of the species, of which it is but a variety; hence the necessity of pointing out the distinctions. Frequently the beautiful white kind is sought for by the typical name only, so that if a plant wefe supplied accordingly there would be disappointment at seeing a somewhat coarse specimen, with small rosy flowers, instead of a bold and beautiful plant with a base of large vine- shaped foliage and strong stems, numerously furnished with large white flowers, quite 2in. across, and centered by a dense arrangement of lemon-coloured stamens, somewhat like a large single white rose. This more desirable white variety sometimes grows 3ft. high, and is eminently a plant for the border in front of shrubs, though it is very effective in any position. I grow it in the border, on rockwork, and in a half shady place, and it seems at home in all. It wiU continue in bloom until stopped by frosts. The flowers are among the most useful in a cut state, especially when mingled with the now fashionable and hand- some leaves of heucheras and tiarellas ; they form a chaste embellishment for the table or fruit dishes. The plant is sometimes much eaten by caterpillars; for this the remedy is soapy water syringed on the under side of the leaves. Earwigs also attack the flowers ; they should be trapped by a similar plan to that usually adopted for dahlias. OtD-FASfllONED GARDEN FLOWEES. It To those wishing to grow this choice Anemone, let me say, begin with the young underground runners ; plant them in the autumn anywhere you like, but see that the soil is deep, and if Fia. 8. AsBSLONE Japonica Alba (A. Hoi^obine Jobebt), (About one-twelfth natural size.) it is not rich, make it so with well-decayed leaves or manure, and you will have your reward. Flowering period, August to November. Anemone Nemorosa Flore-pleno. Double Wood Anemone, or Windfloweb; Nat. Ord. liANUNCtrLACE^. This is the double form of the common British species ; in every part but the flower it resembles the type. The flower, from being double, and perhaps from being grown in more ex- posed situations than the common form in the shaded woods, is much more durable; an established clump has kept in good form for three weeks. The petals (if they may be so called), which render this flower e 18 HARDr PERENNIALS AND 80 pleasingly distinct, are arranged in an even tuft, being much shoi-ter than the outer or normal sepals, the size and form of which remain true to the type. The pure white flower — more than an inch across — is somewhat distant from the handsome three-leaved involucmm, and is supported by a wiiy flower stalk, Sin. to Sin. long ; it is about the same length from the root, otherwise the plant is stemless. The flowers are produced singly, and have six to eight petal-like sepals ; the leaves are temately cut ; leaflets or segments three-cut, lanceolate, and deeply toothed ; petioles channelled ; the roots are long and round, of about the thickness of a pen-holder. This plant grown in bold clumps is indispensable for the choice spring garden ; its quiet beauty is much admired. It enjoys a strongish loam, and a slightly shaded situation will conduce to its lengthened flowering, and also tend to luxuriance. Soon after the flowers fade the foliage begins to dry up : care should, therefore, be taken to have some other suitable flower growing near it, so as to avoid dead or blank spaces. Pentste- mons, rooted cuttings of which are very handy at this season for transplanting, are well adapted for such use and situations, and as their flowers cannot endure hot sunshine without sufEering more or less, such half-shady quarters will be just the places for them. The double white Wood Anemone may be propagated by divisions of the tubers, after the foliage has completely withei-ed. Flowering period, May. Anemone Pulsatilla. Pasqtjb Flower ; Nat. (h-d. Rantjnculace^. A British species. This beautiful flower has long been cul- tivated in our gardens, and is deservedly a great favourite. It may not be uiiinteresting to give the other common and ancient names of the Easter Flower, as in every way this is not only an old plant, but an old-fashioned flower. " Passe Flower " and "Flaw Flower" come from the above common names, being only derivations, but in Cambridgeshire, where it grows wild, it is called " Coventry Bells " and " Hill Tulip." Three hundred years ago Gerarde gave the following description of it, which, together with the illustration (Fig. 9), will, I trust, be found ample : "These Passe flowers hath many small leaues, finely cut or lagged, like those of carrots, among which rise up naked stalks, rough and hairie ; whereupon do growe beautiful flowers bell fashion, of a bright delaied purple colour ; in the bottome whereof groweth a tuft of yellow thrums, and in the middle of the thrums thrusteth foorth a small purple pointell; when the whole flower is past, there sucoeedeth an head or knoppe, compact of many graie haii-ie lockes, and in OLB-FASHIONED GARDEN PL0WEE8. 19 the Bolide parts of theknopslieth tlie seede flat and hoarie, euery seed having his own small haire hanging at it. The roote is thick and knobbie of a finger long, and like vnto those of the anemones (as it doth in all other parts verie notablie resemble) whereof no doubt this is a kinde." This flower in olden times was used for making garlands, and even now there are few flowers more suitable for such purpose ; Fio. 9. Anemone Pulsatilla. (One-lmU natural size.) it varies much in colour, being also sometimes double. It may be grown in pots for window decoration or in the open garden; it likes a dry situation and well-drained soil of a calcareous nature. In these respects it differs widely from many of the other species of Windflower, yet I find it to do well in a collec- tion bed where nearly twenty other species are grown, and where there are both shade and more moisture than in the open parts c 2 20 HARDY PERENNIALS AND of the garden. It may be propagated by division of the strong root-limbs, each of which should have a portion of the smaller roots on them. Soon after flowering is a good time to divide it. Flowering period, March to May. Anemone Stellata. Stae Windflowee ; Nat. Ord. Ranitnculace^. This gay spring flower (Fig. 10) comes to us from Italy, but that it loves our dull climate is beyond doubt, as it not only flowers early, but continues for a long time in beauty. A. hortensis is Fio. 10. Anemone Stellata. (Oue.haIf natural size.) another name for it, and there are several varieties of the species which mostly vary only in the colours of the flowers, as striped! white and purple. The typical form, as illustrated, is seen to be a quamt little plant ; its flowers are large, of a shinina Ueht purple colour, and star-shaped; the dwarf foliage is of the well- known crowfoot kmd. When grown in bold clumps it is richly ettective, and, hke most other Anemones, is sure to be admired OLD-PASHIONED GARDEN PLOWEES. 21 It thrives well in a light loam and in slight shade ; I have ti'ied it in pots kept in cold frames, where it flowers in mid- winter. It would doubtless make a showy appearance in a cool greenhouse. To propagate it, the roots should be divided after the tops have died down in summer. riowering period, February to June, according to position and time of planting. Anemone Sulphurea. SULPHUK-COLOTJKED WiNDPLOWEK ; Sj/W. A. APIIEOLIA; Nat. Ord. Bantjnctjlacb^. This is a grandly beautiful Windflower from Central Europe. The names, combined with the illustration (Fig. 11), must fail to Fig. 11. Abemohh Sulphtieea. (One-touith natural size.) give the reader a proper idea of its beauty ; the specific name in reference to the colour falls far short, and cannot give a hint of its haudsowe form and numerous finely-coloured gta,mens ; and 22 HARDY PERENNIALS AND tte drawing can in no way illustrate the hues and shell-like sub- stance of the sepals ; there is also a softness and graceful habit about the foliage, that the name, apiifolia (parsley-leaved), does not much help the reader to realise. It may be parsley-like foliage in the comparative sense and in relation to that of other Anemones, but otherwise it can hardly be said to be like parsley. It is said by some to be only a variety of A. alpina ; if so, it is not only a distinct but an unvarying form, so much so that by others it is held to be a species ; the line of difference in many respects seems so far removed, even granting it to be a variety (as in hundreds of similar cases), as to warrant a specific title. It may be more interesting to state that it is a lovely and showy flower, and that the shortest cut to an enjoyment of its beauties is to grow it. The flowers are 2in. to 2iin. across when expanded, but usually they are cup-shaped. The six sepals are egg-shaped but pointed, of much substance, and covered with a sUky down on the outside, causing them to have changeable hues according to the play of wind and light. The stamens are very numerous, the anthers being closely aiTanged and of a rich golden colour ; the flower stems grow from 9in. to 18in. high, being terminated by one flower; it cames a large and handsome involucre of three leaves, a little higher than the middle of the stem, and just overtopping th^ radical leaves, umbrella fashion ; the leaves of the involucre are like those of the root, but stalkless. The radical leaves are stalked, well thrown out, drooping, and over 1ft. long, temate and villous ; the leaflets are pinnatfiid and deeply toothed. • This desirable plant is of the easiest culture, thriving in common garden soil, but it prefers that of a rich vegetable character and a situation not over dry. The flowers are per- sistent under any conditions, and they are further preserved when grown under a little shade, but it should only be a little. For propagation see A. decapetala. Flowering period, May and June. There are two other allied kinds which not only much resemble this, but which flower at or near the same time — viz., A. alpina and A. decapetala, which see. Anemone Sylvestris. Snowdrop A.; Nat. Ord. Ranunculace^. This hardy herbaceous species comes from Germany, but it has been grown nearly 300 years in this country. It is distinct, showy, and beautiful ; it ranks with " old-fashioned " flowers. Of late this Windflower has come into great favour, as if for a time it had been forgotten ; still, it is hard to make out how such a fine border plant could be overlooked. However, it is well OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWBES. 23 and deservedly esteemed at the present time; and, altliougli many haTe proved the plant and flowers to be contrary to their expectations in reference to its common name, " Snowdrop Anemone," the disappointment has been, otherwise, an agreeable one. It only resembles the snowdrop as regards the purity and drooping habit of its flowers. Well-grown specimens have an exceedingly neat habit— the foliage spreads and touches the ground, rounding up to the flower stems (which are about a foot high) in a pleasing manner. The earliest flowers are very large — when fully open quite IJin. across — but they are more often seen in the unopen state, when they resemble a nutmeg in shape. Whether open or shut, they are a pure white, and their pendent habit adds not a little to their beauty, as also does the leafy involucre. The leaves are three-parted, the two lower lobes being deeply divided, so that at a first glance the leaves appear to be five-parted ; each of the five lobes are three-cleft, and also dentate, downy, and veined ; the leaf stalks are radical, red, long, slightly channelled, and wiry ; in all respects the leaves of the involucre resemble those of the root, excepting the size, which is smallei-, and the stalks are green, like the flower stems. In a cut state, the pure satin-white blossoms are fit for the most delicate wreath or bouquet; they have, morever, a deli- cious clover-scent. It enjoys a light vegetable soil in a slightly shaded and moist situation ; if it could be allowed to ramble in the small openings of a front shrubbery, such positions would answer admirably. The roots are underground-creeping, which renders this species somewhat awkward to manage when grown with others in a collection of less rampant habit. On the other hand, the disposition it has to spread might very well be taken advantage of by providing it with a good broad space, than which nothing could be more lovely for two months of the year. It is needless to give directions for its propagation, as the runners spring up all round the parent plant. Slugs are very fond of it, and in early spring, especially when the new growths are appearing, they should be kept in check, otherwise they will eat down into the heart of the strongest plant ; a dose of clear lime water will be found effective and will not hurt the new leaves ; if this is followed up with a few sprinklings of sand, the slugs will not care to occupy such unpleasant quarters. Flowering period. May and June. Anemone Vernalis. Shaggy Windfloweb ; Nat. Ord. Ranunotjlace^. A CURlOirs but pretty alpine species, from the Swiss Alps, consequently very hardy. It is not a showy subject, but its 24 HAEDT PEEENNIAIS AND distinctions are really beautiful, and commend it to those who love to grow plants of a recherche character. The illustration (Fig. 12) will give some idea of it, but no de- scription can convey even an approximate notion of its flowers, which are produced singly, on short, stout, hairy stems, about Sin. high. For so small a plant the flower is large, more than an inch across when expanded, but usually it keeps of a roundish, bell-shaped form. Its colour is a bluish-white inside, the outside being much darker. It would be violet, were not the hairs so long and numerous that they form a brownish coat, which is, perhaps, the most remarkable trait of this species Fia. 12. Ahemone Veenalis (Shagoy Anemoke), (One-lialf natural size). The leaves, too, are very hairy — twice, and sometimes thrice, divided, rather small, and also few. This little plant is most enjoyed when grown in pots. It may be plunged in sand or ashes in an open space, but it should never be allowed to suffer for moisture. When so grown, and just before the flowers open, it should be removed to a cool, airy frame, where it should also be plunged to keep its roots cool and moist ; it wiU. require to be very near the glass, so as to get perfect flowers. ,Such a method of growing this flower affords the best o;pportunity for its close examination ; besides, it is so preserved m finer wd njore endming form. It thrives well io OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN rLOWERS. 25 lumpy peat and loam, but I have found charcoal, in very small lumps, to improve it, as it does most plants grown in pots, espe- cially sucli as require frequent supplies of water. The slugs are very fond of it ; a look-out for them should be kept when the plants are growing, and frequent sprinklings of sharp ashes will be found useful. Mowering period, April and May. Anthericum Liliago. St. Beenaed's Lilt; Nat. Ord. Liliace^. This may be grown as a companion to St. Bruno's Lily, i/Lough not so neat in habit or rich in bloom. In all respects it is very diiferent. It is taller, the flowers not half the size, and more star-shaped, foliage more grassy, and the roots creeping and jointed. AU the Anthericums named by me will do in ordinary soil, but prefer a fat loam of considerable depth. If, therefore, such conditions do not exist, there should be a good di'essing of well- rotted stable manure turned in, and a mulching given in early spring. Anthericums are propagated by division of the roots, which should be carefully performed during the autumn. After such mutilation they should not be disturbed again for three years, or they will deteriorate in vigour and beauty. Flowering period, June and July. Anthericum Liliastrum. '='t. Beuno's Lilt; Nat. Ord. Liliace«. This charming plant is a native of Alpine meadows, and is known by other names, as Paradisia and Cyaclcia, but is more commonly called St. Bruno's Lily. It is emphatically one of the most useful and handsome flowers that can be grown in English gardens, where, as yet, it is anything but as plentiful as itouglit to be. Not only is it perfectly hardy in our climate, but it seems to thrive and flower abundantly. It is fast becoming a favourite, and it is probable that before long it will be very common, from the facts, firstly, of its own value and beauty, and, secondly, because the Dutch bulb-growers have taken it in hand. Not long ago they were said to be buying stock where- ever they could find it. The illustration (Fig. 13) shows it in a small-sized clump. Three or four such specimens are vei'y elective when grown near together ; the satin-like or shining pure white flowers show to greater advantage when there is plenty of foliage. A number planted in strong single roots, but near together, forming a clump several feet in diameter, represent also a good style ; but a single massive specimen, with at least fifty 26 HARDY PEUENNIA-LS AND crowns, and nearly as many spikes of bloom just beginning to imfold, is one of the most lovely objects in my own garden. The chaste flowers are 2in. long, six sepalled, lily-shaped, of a transparent whiteness, and sweetly perfumed ; filaments white, and long as the sepals; anthers large, and thickly furnished with bright orange-yellow pollen; the stems are round, stout, 18in. high, and produce from six to twelve flowers, two or three of which are open at one and the same time. The leaves are long, thick, with membranous sheaths, alternate and stem-clasping, or semi-cylindrical; the upper parts are lanceolate, dilated, Fig. 13. Antheeictjm Liliastrum. (Plaut, one-Bixth natural size j blossom, one-fourth natural size.) subulate, and of a pale green colour. The roots are long, fleshy, brittle, and fasciculate. This plant for three or four weeks is one of the most decora- tive ; no matter whether in partial shade or full sunshine, it not only flowers well, but adorns its situation most richly ; the flowers, in a cut state, are amongst the most useful and efiective of hardy kinds — indeed, they vie with the tender exotics. Flowering period, June and July. OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWEES. 27 A. I. major is a new variety in all its parts like the type, with the exception of size, the flowers being larger by nearly an inch. The variety is said to grow to the height of 8ft. Anthyllis IVIontana. MoTjNTAiN Kidney Vetch; Nat. Ord. Legtjminos^. For rockwork this is one of the most lovely subjects. It is seldom seen, though easy to grow, perfectly hardy, and peren- nial. It is classed as an herbaceous plant, but it is shrubby, and on old specimens there is more wood than on many dwarf shrubs. It is of a procumbent habit, and only 4in-. to 6in. high in this climate. It comes from the South of Europe, where it probably grows larger. In early spring the woody tips begin to send out the hoary leaves ; they are Sin. to 6in. long, and from their dense habit, and the way in which they intersect each other, they present a pleasing and distinct mass of woolly foliage. The leaves are pinnatifid, leaflets numerous, oval, oblong, and very grey, nearly white, with long silky hairs. The flowers are of a purple-pink colour, very small, and in close drumstick-like heads. The long and numerous hairs of the involucre and calyx almost cover over the flowers and render them inconspicuous ; still, they are a pretty feature of the plant; the bloom stsinds well above the foliage on very downy, but otherwise naked stalks. When planted in such a position that it can rest on the edge of or droop over a stone, strong specimens are very effective. It seems to enjoy soil of a vegetable character, with its roots near large stones. I have heard that it has been found difiicult to gi"ow, but that I cannot understand. I fear the fault has been in having badly -rooted plants to start with, as cuttings are very slow in making an ample set of roots for safe transplanting. Its increase by division is no easy matter, as the woody stems are all joined in one, and the roots are of a tap character. Seed seldom ripens ; by cuttings appears to be the readier mode of propagation ; if these are taken off in early spring, put in a shady position, and in leaf soil, they will probably root as the seasons get warmer. Flowering period, June and July. Apios Tuberosa. 8yn. Glycine Apios ; Nat. Ord. LEGtfMiNOSiE. This is a pretty climber, or, more strictly speaking, a twiner ; it is hardy, tuberous, and perennial The tubers resemble pota- toes, but incline to pear-shape, as implied by the generic name. 240 years ago it was introduced from North America ; still, it is 28 HARDY PERENNIALS AND seldom met with^ notwithstanding its good habit and colour. It is one of those happy subjects which most conduce to the fresh- ness and wild beauty of our gardens; the dark and glossy verdure is charmingly disposed in embowerments by means of the delicate twining stems ; and though it grows apace, there is never an unsightly dense or dark mass, so commonly seen in many climbers, but, instead, it elegantly adorns its station, and the outlines of its pretty pinnate leaves may easily be traced against the light. ElG. 14. API03 TUBEROSA. (One-twelftli natural size ; a, flower, natural size.) As may be seen by the illustration (Fig. 14), it is in the way of a climbing bean. The flowers are purple and borne in small clusters from the axils of the leaves, and, of course, as indicated by the order to which it belongs, they are like pea flowers ; they are produced a long time in succession, providing the frosts do not occur ; they have the scent of violets. The leaves are distantly produced on fine wiry stems, which grow to the length of 12ft. • they are pinnate, the leaflets being of various sizes, oval, smooth, and of a dark shining green colour. The roots are not only peculiar in the way already mentioned, OLD-FASHIONED GAEDEN FLOWERS. 29 but tbe tubers have the appearance of being strung together by their ends. They are edible, and where they gi'ow wild they are called " ground nuts." From the description given it will be easy to decide how and where it should be planted. There should be provision made for its twining habit, and it may have the liberty of mixing its foliage with that of less beautiful things during autumn, such, for instance, as the bare Jasmine nudiflora ; its spare but effective leaves and flowers will do little or no harm to such trees, and after the frosts come the jasmine will be clear again. It may also be grown with happy results as shown in the illustration, needing only a well-secured twiggy bush. Cut as sprays it is very seiTiceable for hanging or twining purposes. It most enjoys a light soil, also a sunny situation. Sometimes it has been found slow at starting into growth when newly planted ; this, however, can hardly be the case with newly lifted tubers. I may add that it is no uncommon thing for these to be out of the ground for weeks and months together, when they not only become hard and woody, but when suddenly brought in contact with the damp earth rot overtakes them. There is no difficulty whatever with fresh tubers, which may be lifted after the tops have died oS. Beyond securing fresh roots, there is nothing special about the culture of this desirable climber. Flowering period, August to October. Arabis Lucida. Shining Rock Cress ; Nat. Ord. Ceucieer^. This member of a well-known family of early spring flowers is desirable, for its neat habit and verdancy. There is not a particle of sere foliage to be seen, and it has, moreover, a glossy appearance, whence the specific name. The flowers are not of much effect, though, from their earliness, not without value; they are in the way of the flowers of the more common species, A. alpina, but less in size ; they are also more straggling in the raceme ; these two features render it inferior as a flower ; the stalks are 3in. to Gin. high. The leaves are arranged in lax flattened rosettes, are lin. to Sin. long, somewhat spathulate, notched, fleshy, of a very dark green colour, and shining. The habit is dense and spreading, established tufts having a fresh effect. Though an Hungarian species, it can hardly have a more happy home in its habitat than in our climate. Where verdant dwarf subjects are in request, either for edgings, borders, or rockwork, this is to be commended as one of the most reliable, both for effect and vigour. In the last-named situation it proves useful all the year round, but care should be taken that it does not overgrow less rampant rock plants. A. l.variegata isa.'va.neij'with finfly-marked leaves. The bloom 30 HARDY PERENNIALS AND resembles that of the type, but is rather weaker. It is better to remove the flowers of this kind, as then the rather slow habit of growth is much improved, as also is the colour of the foliage. The leaves being more sei-viceable and effective than the bloom, the uses should be made of it accordingly. They are broadly edged with yellow, the green being lighter than that of the type, but equally bright ; the ends of the leaves are curled backwards, but, with the exception of being a little smaller, they are similar in shape to the parent form. This is a gem for rockwork, and, if it did not belong to a rather ordinary race of plants, it would, perhaps, be more often seen in choice collections. This, how- ever, does not alter its worth. Seen in crevices of dark stone on rockwork, or in bold tufts near the walk^, or planted with judgment near other dwarf foliaged subjects, it ever proves attractive. It is much less rampant, and, perhaps, less hardy than the type. It has only been during the recent very severe winters, however, that it has been killed. The Arabis is easily propagated by slips or rootlets, which should be taken after flowering. The variegated form is better for being so pi-opa- gated every year. If bold patches are desired, they should be formed by planting a number together, Sin. or 4iii. apart, riowermg period, February to June. Aralia Sieboldi. Siebold's Akalia ; Nat. Ord. Aealiace^, The present subject (see Fig. 15) — ^beautiful, hardy, and ever- green — is a species of recent introduction; still, it has already become well known and distiibuted, so much so that it scarcely needs description ; but there are facts in reference to it which would seem to be less known. It is seldom seen in the open garden, and many amateurs, who othei-wise are well acquainted with it, when they see it fresh and glossy in the open garden in the earliest months of the year, ask, "Is it really hardy ?" Not only is such the case, but the foliage, and especially the deep green colour, are rarely so fine when the specimens have indoor treatment, and, on this account, the shrub is eminently suitable for notice here. The order Araliacece is nearly related to VmbelUfercB, from which fact an idea may be had of the kind and ai'rangement of the flowers. Many of the genera of the order Araliacece are little known; perhaps the genus Seder a (ivy) is the only one that is popular, and it so happens to immediately follow the genus Aralia. To remember this wiU further assist in gleaning an idea of the form of blossom, as that of ivy is well known. Aralia Sieboldi, however, seldom flowers in this climate, either in or out of doors. When it does, the white flowers are not of much value ; they are small, like ivy blossom OLD-FASHIONED G.VEDEN FLOWERS. 31 in form, but more spread in the arrangement There are five sepals, five petals, five styles, and five cells m the hemes. _ ihe flowers ai-e produced on specimens 2ft. to 5ft. high during winter, FiS. 15. AbAMA SlEEOlDI. (One-tenth natural size.) When favourahle l^l^^Z' ^:\:tr::ro:r This'S feature of the shrub, and ^^«lri^°^^^°aken from an outside %:^^:'^:r^^^l'^oi:ZiT.Z^ round stal.. 13in. 32 HARDY PERENNIALS AND long; the form of leaf is fan-shaped, having generally seven lobes, each supported by a strong mid-rib; the lobes are formed by divisions rather more than half the diameter of the leaf ; they are slightly distant, broadly lance-shaped, waved at the edges, toothed near the ends, the teeth being somewhat spiny; the substance is very stout and leather-like to the touch ; the upper surface is a dark shining bronzy-green, beautifully netted or veined ; the under surface is a pale green, and richly ornamented by the risen mid-ribs and nerves of the whole leaf; the leaf- stalks are thick, round, bending downwards, and 6in. to 18in. long, springing from the half woody stem. The habit of the shrub is bushy, somewhat spreading, causing the specimens to have a fine effect from their I'oundness, the leaf arrangement also being perfect. Without doubt this is one of the .most distinct and charming evergreens for the orna- mental garden, sub-tropical in appearance, and only inferior to palms as regards size ; it is efPective anywhere. It need not be stated that as a vase or table decoration it ranks with the best for effect and sei-vice, as it is already well-known as such. In planting this subject outside, young but well-rooted examples should be selected and gradually hardened off. At the latter end of May they should be turned out of the pots into a rich but sandy loam. The position should be sunny, and sheltered from the north. Some have advised that it should be gi-own under trees, but I have proved that when so treated the less ripened foliage has suffered with frost, whilst the specimens fully exposed to the sun have not suffered in the least; they would droop and shrivel as long as the frost remained, but as soon as the temperature rose they became nonnal, without a trace of injury. When planted as above, young specimens will soon become so established and inured to open-air conditions, ' that little concern need be felt as regards winter ; even such as were under trees, where they continued to grow too long, and whose tender tops were cut away by frost, have, the following summer, made a number of fresh growths lower down the stems. I should like to say that on rockwork this shi'ub has a superb effect, and I imagine the better drained condition of such a structure is greatly in favour of its health and hardiness. The propagation is by means of cuttings ; slips of half -ripened wood, taken during the warmest months, if put in sandy loam in a cucumber frame, will root like willow. As soon as r'oots have formed, pot them separately and plunge the pots in the same frame for a week or two, then harden off. For the first winter the young stock ought to be kept either in a greenhouse or a cold frame, and by the end of the following May they will be ready to plant out. A well-drained position is important. Flowering period, November to March, in favourable or mild OIiD-FASHIONED GARDEN TLOWEES, 33 Arisaema Triphyllum. Syns. A. Zebrinttm: and Arum Teiphtlltjm ; Common Names, Theeb-lbavbd Aeum and Jack-in-thb-Ptjlpit ; Nat. Ord. Akace^. A HAEDT tuberous-rooted perennial from North America. I will at once explain that the above leading name is not the one generally used here, but in America, where the species is common, botanists have adopted it ; besides, it is, as will be seen from the following description, very distinct from other Arums. The Syn. Ariscema zebrinum,, as given, belongs really to a variety of A. triphyllum,, but the type is marked in its flowers zebra-like, and there are many shades and colours of it, there- fore both or either of the names may be used for the different forms, with a fair degree of propriety, as in fact they are. There is a doubt with some as to the hardiness of this plant ; in my mind there is none whatever. It is no stranger to frosts in its habitats, but I do not found my conviction on anything but my experience of it. It has been grown fully exposed for two winters, and sometimes the frosts must have gone as far down as the roots. There is nothing showy about this plant, but there is some- thing which stamps it as a fitting subject for a garden of choice plants ; its bold, dark green foliage and quaint-looking flowers render it desirable on the score of distinctness. It has, more- over, a freshness upon which the eye can always linger. The flowers are in general form like the caUa-lily ; the upper part of the spathe, or sheathing leaf, which is really the calyx, is, however, more elongated, pointed, and hooked; otherwise the spathe is erect, slightly reflexed just above the folded part, giving the appearance of a pair of small lobes ; this — the calyx — is really the most conspicuous part of the flower ; in the belly it IS beautifully striped with broad lines of a purplish-brown colour, which shade ofE to an inch of green in the middle, when they form again, and continue to the tip of the spathe, whirfh will be 4in. to Gm. long, and nearly 2in. broad at the widest part ; these lines run between the ribs, and, as before hinted, they are of various colours, such as brown, purple, pink, and green. The ribs are nearly white, and the green parts are very pale. The spadix is over Sin. long, club-shaped, spotted with brown, very much so near the end. The anthers at the base of the spadix are curious, and should be examined. They are invisible until the folded part of the spathe is opened ; they are numerous, arranged in a dense broad ring, sessile, and nearly black. This curious flower is produced on a stout, round scape, a foot or more in height. The leaves are radical, having a stalk a foot long. They are, as the specific name implies, divided into three parts, each being of equal length, entire, wavy, and pointed. D M HARDY PEHiENiriALS Alfft The whole plant has a somewhat top-heavy appearance (see Fig. 16), but I never saw it broken down by the weather. It makes quick growth in spring, the scape appearing with the leaves ; m late summer it dies do?m. It looks well in quiet nooks, but it also forms a good companion to showy flowers in more open situations; in a cut state, for dressing "old-fashioned" vases, nothing could be in better character, a few leaves of yarrow, day lily, flag, or similar foliage being aU it will require. ^^«#J» Fia, 16. Abis^ma Tbiphyllttm. (One-fourth natural size.) It may be transplanted, any time from September to the end of January, into good light loam or leaf soil, 4in. or 6in. deep ; if there should be a dry season during the period of growth, the plant should be well watered. To increase it, the tubers may be divided every third year, providing the growth has been of a vigorous tone. I may add, that, from its tall and not over-dense habit, there may with advantage, both to it and the plants used, be a carpet grown underneath — ivy, vincas, or sweet woodruff for some situations, and brighter subjects for more conspicuous parts of the garden, such as the finer kinds of mimulus, ourisia, alpine aster, and dwarf iris. Flowering period, June and Jidy. OLD-PAsHioiiED Garden flowers. 35 Arum Crinitum. Haibt Aetjm, or Dragon's Mouth; Nat. Ord. Aragb^. As may be seen by the illustration (Fig. 17), this is a most sin- gular plant. It proves hardy in this climate if its position is selected ; in other words, it is not hardy in all kinds of soils and situations, but if planted four or five inches deep, in sandy or half decayed vegetable mould, facing the south, there is little to fear either as regards hardiness or its thriving. I think, there- fore, it may be called hardy. It is far more interesting than handsome, but there is at the present time an evidpnt desire amongst amateurs to grow the various Arums, and more espe- cially has this one been sought after ; I have, therefore, intro- duced it amongst more beautiful flowers, and given an enlarged drawing of the entire plant, together with the spathe in its unopened state. The plant is a native of Minorca, and was imported in 1777. In this climate it grows to the height of 18in., developing the flower with the foliage. It is produced on a stout scape nearly 1ft. high, of a pale green colour, marked with dark short lines and spotted with delicate pink dots. The folded spathe is of leather-like substance, rough, almost corky in texture ; also variously marked and tinted. At the base there are a number of green lines an-anged evenly and longitudiually on a nearly white ground. A little higher — the belly part — the lines are less frequent, irregular, and mixed with pink dots. Still higher, the ground colour becomes pale green, the lines dark green, and the pink spots are changed to clouded tints ; the remainder of the folded spathe — to the tip — is a mixture of brown and green dots, the total leagth being fully 9in. When the spathe opens, it does so quickly, bending more than half its length outwards, the division looking upwards. To those who have not before seen-the plant at this stage, it will prove an interesting surprise ; the odour, however, is repulsive. The spathe at its widest part is 6in. broad, and tapers off to a blunt point. It is of a dark purple colour and covered with long bent dark hairs, whence the specific name. They are curiously disposed, and remind one of some hairy animal that has been lifted out of the water the wrong way as regards the direction of the hair. The spadix is comparatively small, black, and also covered with hairs. The flower should be closely watched if its peculiarities are to be fully noted, as it not only opens quickly but soon begins to wither. During the short period that the flower in open the lower part of the spathe or belly becomes fiUed wits all kinds of flies, being held by the spear-like hairs. The. leaves have long stalks, marked and tinted in a similar manner to that of the scape. They are curiously formed and twisted, pedate or bird-foot sh:iped, the outer segments twice d2 36 HAEDY PERENNIALS AND PiQ. 17. Arum Crinitum. (One-fourth, natural size.) OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWEES. 37 cut, lance-shaped, and turned inwards or over the main part of the leaf ; the leaves are of a deep green colour, and of good substance; they seldom exceed four in number to each plant or tuber. This curious species should, as above indicated, have a warm situation, where it will also be comparatively dry in winter. Its propagation may be eftected by division of the roots of strong specimens. Flowering period, June and July. Asters. Michaelmas Daisies, or Staewokts ; Nat. Ord. Composite. Haedt, perennial, and herbaceous. These are a numerous family, and many of them have an ungainly habit and insignifi- cant flowers — in fact, are not worth growing, save as wild flowers in unfrequented places. I will mention a few of the finer sorts, which are mostly species : A. diversifolius, A. ericoides, A. grandiflorus, A. pendulus, and A. Dv/mosus, these are all good, both in habit and flowers ; ericoides and pendulus make I'eally handsome bushes, but the very beautiful A. amellus, and its more dwarf variety (A. Mdme. Soyance), have tempted me to wi-ite of these old-f asjjiioned plants, which may be said to be wholly distinct, as their flowers are so very much brighter (dark purple, with a clear yellow centre), and the rays so much more evenly and compactly furnished. Their stems are 2ft. to 3ft. high, and flowered half their length with clusters of bloom about the size and form of full-grown field daisies. These wand-like spikes in a cut state are bright and appropriate deco- rations. In vases they are very effective, even when used alone. The flowers are very lasting, either out or otherwise ; the plants will bloom six or eight weeks. These subjects will thrive in almost any kind of soil or posi- tion, opening their flowers during the dullest weather, and though they like sunshine, they will not wait for it. It ia scarcely needful to further describe these well-known flowers, but, as well as the species, there are some bright and beautiful varieties which merit further notice All the Starworts are easily increased by root division any time. Flowering period, August to November. Aster Alpinus. Alpine Staewokt, or Blue Daisy; Nat. Ord. Composite An exceedingly beautiful and very much admired alpine plant, which does not die down like most of the Starworts, but has woody stems ; it is seldom seen more than a foot high, 38 HAEDT PERENNIALS AND and its large bright purple flowers seem disproportionate. This is one of the plants which should have a place in every garden, and more especially in rock gardens. There cannot well be a more neat and telling subject ; the form and size of its flowers are not often seen on such dwarf plants, and it also has the merit of being a " tidy " subject when not in bloom. The illus- tration (Kg. 18) will give a fair idea of its main features. Its purple flowers, which are fully 2in. across, have for many days an even and well-expanded ray, when the florets curl or reflex ; Fig 18. Aster Alpinus, (One- third natural size.) the disk is large, and numerously set with lemon-yellow florets, the flowers are well lifted up on stout round stems, covered with short stiff hairs, and furnished with five or six small leaves ; the main foliage is of compact growth, lance-shaped, entire, spathulate and covered with short hairs. Considering that this plant has been in English gardens for 220 years, and that its merits must be seen by anyone at a glance, it is hard to say why it is not better known ; even in choice and large collections it always proves attractive when in flower The OLD-PASHIONED GABDEN FLOWEES. 39 blooms in a cut state are very durable; they not only hold together, but also keep a good colour. Under cultivation it is in no way particular ; it will endure anything but being deprived of light; from its dwarf, stout, and shrubby character, it would form a useful and a handsome edging to the larger walks ; and by growing it so extensively an enviable supply of flowers for cutting would be at hand. A stock of young plants may soon be got up by division of strong roots after the flowering season ; such pieces as have roots may be planted at once in their permanent quarters ; the rootless parts should be dibbled into light sandy loam and shaded with branches for a week or two. riowei'ing pei-iod, June and July. A. a. albus is a white-flowered variety, blooming about the same time. There does not appear to be that vigour about it which characterises the type ; this, however, is not the only shortcoming ; when compared with the rich purple flower, the white one, with its large yellow disk, appears, to say the least, a questionable improvement. Aster Ptarmicoides. BOTXQTJET StAEWOET ; Nat Ord. COMPOSIT.a!. This Starwort is a very recently - imported species from North America. Like many other things which have proved worthless as decorative flowers, this was highly praised, but for a while its weedy-looking foliage caused suspicion ; after becoming well established, it flowered, and, I am glad to say, proves a most distinct and useful Starwort Its small white flowers much resemble the field daisy, but they are borne on densely -branched stems in hundreds ; in fact, the plant, which grows neai'ly 2ft. high, seems to be nearly all flowers. Each one has a single ray of shining white florets, narrow and separate. Those of the disk are of a canary-yellow colour ; the imbricated involucre is pear-shaped; pedicels slender, bent, wiry, furnished with very small leaves ; main stems hispid, woody, and brittle. The leaves of the root are 2in. to 4in. long, smooth, entire, linear, almost grass-like; those of the stems much less, becoming smaller as they near the flowers ; they ai-e somewhat rough, partaking of the quality of the stems. The habit of the plant is much branched, the spreading clusters of flowers being six or ten times the size of the plant, so that it becomes top-heavy; it blooms for many weeks, and is not damaged by coarse weather. Amongst other Asters it shows to advantage, flowering earlier than most of them, but lasting well into their period of bloom. It is sure to prove a useful white autumnal flower ; small sprays when cut look better than on the plant, as they are then seen to be well spread and rigidly held by means of their wiry stalks ; id fiAEDT t-EBENNlAtS AND they have the scent of Southernwood. It grows well with me in ordinary garden loam, the situation being well exposed to the sun. It may be readily propagated by root division. Flowering period, August to October. Bellis Perennis. Common Peeennial Daisy; Nat. Ord. Composite. This native plant, the commonest flower of the field and way- side, and the weed of our grass-plots, is the parent form of the handsome and popular double kinds seen in almost every garden. Well known as these flowers are, it may prove interesting to learn a little more about the fine large double crimson and white kinds — ^their treatment, for instance — in order to have abundance of flowers during the earliest months of the year ; and the uses to which they may be most advan- tageously put ; for, common as are the Daisies, they are, without doubt, amongst the most useful flowers we possess. First, I will briefly give the names and descriptions of the more distiact varieties. B. p. aucvhifolia is the Double Daisy, having a beautifully variegated foliage, mottled with golden-yellow in the way of the aucuba. B. ■p. fistulosa. — This is the double crimson or pink Daisy, having its florets piped or quilled (see Fig. 19). B. p. hortensis embraces aU the double forms raised and cultivated in gardens, no matter what colour, and so distin- guished from the typical foi-m of the fields. B. p. prolifera is that curious and favourite kind called " Hen and Chickens." The flowers are double, and from the imbricate involucre of the normal flower there issue a number of smaller Daisies having straggling florets ; the whole on one main stalk presenting a bouquet-like effect. These kinds, the specific names of which are not only descriptive, but amply embrace the gi'oup, are much added to by flowers having other names and minor distinctions, the latter, for the most part, being only shades or mixtures of colour — as ciimson, pink, white, and bicolours. The florets in many kinds are exceedingly pretty, from the way in which they are tipped and shaded ; notably, a new variety that was sent me under the name of Dresden China. These sorts having different tints are usefully named with " florists' " names — as Pearl, Snowball, Rob Roy, Sweep, Bride, &c. I may say that I have long grown the Daisy largely. Bride and Sweep being the favourite kinds ; both are robust growers, very hardy and early. Bride is the purest white, with florets fuU, shining, and well reflexed ; rather larger than a florin, and when fully developed has a half globular appearance ; another good point is its flower stalks being 4in. OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN PLOWEES. 41 to 5in. long, wliich. renders it serviceable as cut bloom. Sweep is not quite so large, though a good-sized Daisy, it also opens more flat; its colour, however, is first rate, it is the darkest crimson Daisy I ever saw, is of a quilled form and very full. Fig. 19 Beilis Peeenkis Fisidlosa, (One-third natural size.) Its chief point is its constant colour ; if the florets are examined, they are the same deep crimson underneath as on the face of the flower ; this, together with its long stalks, renders it useful, too, in a cut state. To grow this useful flower well and render it doubly valuable by having it in bloom in mid-winter, requires three things : First, timely transplanting ; secondly, rich soil ; thirdly, partial shade ; these conditions will be more briefly and, perhaps, clearly explained, if I state my method. At the end of May or fore part of June, plenty of good rotten stable manure is wheeled into the bush-fruit quaa'ters ; it is worked in with a fork, so as to do as little damage as possible to the bush roots. A line is drawn, and the old Daisy roots which have just been taken up are trimmed by shortening both tops and roots. They are severely divided, and the pieces planted 6in. apart in rows Sin. asunder. In such a cool, moist situation they soon form good tufts, and I need scarcely say that the dressing of manure has also a marked effect on the fruit crop. A planting so made is not only a cheerful carpet of greenei-y during winter, but is well dotted over with bloom. The plants being well established in rich soil, and having the shelter of the bushes during summer and winter, are the conditions which have conduced to such early flowers. This • is the method I have adopted for years, and both Daisies and fruit have been invariably good 42 HABDT PBEENNIALS AND crops. I oTiglit, Lowever, to say that beds more exposed, together with the fact that the Daisy roots have to be trans- planted in October or November, never flower so early, from which it will be seen that the treatment explained hardly applies to such bedding ; but where a breadth of bloom is required, say, for cutting purposes, I know no better plan. As out bloom the daisy is charming in glass trays on a bed of moss, or even in small bouquets, mixed with the foliage of pinks, carnations, and rosemary. Such an arrangement has at least the merit of sweet simplicity, and somehow has also the effect of carrying our thoughts with a bound to spring-time. The ancient names for this "old-fashioned" flower were " Little Daisies " and " Bruisewoorte." The latter name, accord- ing to Gerarde, was applied for the following reasons : " The leaues stamped, taketh away bruses and swellings proceeding of some stroke, if they be stamped and laide thereon, whereupon it was called in olde time Bruise-woorte. The iuice put into the eies cleereth them, and taketh away the watering ;" and here is a dog note : " The same given to little dogs with milke, keepeth them from growing great." Flowering period, February to July. Bocconia Cordata. 8yn. Maclbata Coedata ; Nat. Ord. Papatbeace^. A HAEDT herbaceous perennial from China. It is a tall and handsome plant ; its fine features are its stately habit, finely- cut foliage, and noble panicles of buds and flowers ; during the whole progress of its growth it is a pleasing object, but in the autumn, when at the height of 7ft. it has become topped with lax clusters of flowers, over 2ft. long, it is simply grand. There are other names in trade lists, as B. japonica and B. alba, but they are identical with B. cordata ; possibly there may be a little difference in the shades of the flowers, but nothing to warrant another name. Having grown the so-called species or varieties, I have hitherto found no difference whatever ; and of the hardy species of this genus, I believe B. cordata is the only one at present grown m_ English gardens. During spring and early summer this subject makes rapid ^owth, pushing forth its thick leafy stems, which are attractive, not only by reason of their somewhat unusual form, but also because of their tender and unseasonable appearance, especially during spring; it is rare, however, that the late frosts do any damage to its foliage. It continues to grow with remarkable vigour until, at the height of 5ft. or more, the flower panicles begin to develop ; these usually add 2ft. or more to its taUness. The flowers are very small but numerous, of an ivory-white colour; they aie more beautiful in the unopened state, when the OLD-FASHIONED GAEDBN ELOWEES. 43 two-sepalled calyx for many days compresses tte tassel-like cluster of stamens. Each Balf of the calyx is boat-siaped, and before they burst they have the form and colour of clean plump groats ; as already hinted, the stamens are numerous, and the anthers large for so small a flower, being spathulate. As Fia. 20. BOCCONIA OOEDATA. (About one-tweutietli natural size ; blossoiD, one-half natural Bize.) Boon as the stamens become exposed, the calyx falls, and in a, short time — a few hours — the fugacious anthers disappear, to be followed only a little later by the fall of the filaments ; there is then left a naked but headed capsule, half the size of the buds, and of the same colour ; they may be traced on the panicle in the illustration (Pig. 20). I'rom the fading quality 44 HA.RDT PERENNIALS AND of tte above-named parts, tKe buds and capsules chiefly form tie ornamental portion of the compound racemes. The leaves are from Sin. to lOin. in diameter, the largest being at the base of the tall stems ; their outline, as the specific name implies, is heart-shaped, but they are deeply lobed and dentate, in the way of the fig leai, but more profusely so; they are stalked, of good substance, glaucous, nearly white tindemeath, which part is also furnished with short stiff hairs. The glaucous hue or farina which covers the leaf-stalks and main stems has a metallic appearance, and is one of its pleasing features as a decorative plant. For many weeks the flowers continue to be developed, and from the deciduous quality of the fading parts, the panicles have a neat appearance to the last. In a cut state the long side branches of flowers, more than a foot long, are very effective, either alone or when mixed with other kinds, the little clusters of white drop-like buds being suitable for combination with the choicest flowers. As a decorative specimen for the more ornamental parts of the garden, and where bold subjects are desired, there are few herbaceous things that can be named as more suitable ; from the day it appears above the ground, to and throughout its fading days in the autumn, when it has pleasing tints, it is not only a handsome but distinct form of plant ; as an isolated specimen on the lawn, or by frequented walks, it may be grown with marked effect ; if too nearly surrounded with other tall things, its beauty is somewhat marred ; but wherever it is planted it should have a good fat loam of considerable depth. I ought not to omit saying that it forms a capital subject for pot culture ; plants so treated, when 12in. or 18in. high, no matter if not then in flower, are very useful as window or table plants ; but of course, being herbaceous, they are serviceable only during their growing season ; they need not, however, be a source of care during winter, for they may with safety be plunged outside in a bed of ashes or sand, where they will take care of themselves during the severest weather. It may be propagated by cuttings taken from the axils of the larger leaves during early summer; if this method is followed, the cuttings should be pushed on, so that there are plenty of roots before the winter sets in. I have found it by far the better plan to take young suckers from established plants; in good rich soil these are freely produced from the slightly running roots ; they may be separated and transplanted any time, but if it is done during summer they will flower the following season. Tall as this subject grows, it needs no supports ; neither have I noticed it to be troubled by any of the garden pests. Flowering period, September to August. OLD-FASHIONED GAKDEN FLOWEES. 45 Bulbocodium Trigynum. Syns. CoLCHicuM Oatjcasictjm and Meeendbea Oaucasicum; Nat. Ord. Melanthace^;. This pretty miniatiare bulbous plant is very hardy, flowering in winter. It is a scarce flower, and has recently been represented as a new plant. As a matter of fact, it is not new, but has been known under the above synonymous names since 1823, when it was brought from the Caucasus. In general appearance it is very different from the Colchicum (Sprengle), as may be seen by the drawing (Fig. 21), and Merendera (Bieberstein) is only another Spaaiish name for Colchicum. The new name, autho- rised by Adams, may have been the cause, all or in part, of its Fia. 21. Bdlbocodidm TniaTHDM. (Full size.) being taken for a new species. The specific name may be pre- sumed to be in reference to either its deeply-channelled, almost keeled leaves, which have the appearance of three comers, or in allusion to the triangular way in which they are disposed. It is a desirable flower for several reasons— its earliness, durability, rich perfume, and intrinsic beauty. The little plant, at the height of 2in., produces its rather large flowers in ones and twos in February, and they last for many days in perfect form. The scent reminds one of the sweet honey smeU of a white clover field during summer. The colour is very pale lilac, nearly white; the tube takes on a little greenness; it is also divided, though the slits are invisible 46 HAEDT PERENNIALS AND until the bloom begins to fade. The perianth, of irregular seg- ments, is l^in. across when expanded ; the stamens are half the length of the petal-like segments, and carry anthers of exquisite beauty, especially when young, then they are orange colour, divided like a pair of half -opened shells, and edged with choco- late ; the styles are a delicate pale green, and rather longer than the stamens. The leaves, as already stated, are channelled, broadest at the base, tapering to a point, which is rather twisted; they are 2in. long during the blooming period, of a deep green colour, stifE, but spreading, forming a pretty accurate triangle. This description, together with the cut, will suggest both the uses and positions in which it should be planted ; if a single blossom, when brought indoors, proves strongly fragrant, it is easy to imagine what a clump must be in the garden. Like those of the colchicum, its flowers are quickly developed ; the leaves grow longer afterwards, and die ofE in summer. It thrives in a sandy loam or leaf soil, in a sunny part, and increases itself at the roots like the saffrons. Flowering period, February and March. Bulbocodium Vernum, Spring BrtBocoDniM, or Seeing Sapfeon ; Nat. Ord. Melanthace*. In mild winters, sheltered positions, and light vegetable soil, this bulbous plant may be seen in blossom from January to March. The flowers appear before the leaves, and may, at the first glance, be taken for lilac-coloured croci. Up to a certain stage, however, the colour gradually improves in the direction of purple, and where there are established patches it is no inconsiderable part of the effect caused by this desirable winter flower to see it a mass of bloom in many shades, ranging from white (as in the bud state) to a lively purple. It is an old plant in English gardens, and is largely found wild in mid- Europe. It came from Spain as early as 1629. StiU, it is not generally known or grown ; but within the last few years it has come to the fore, with a host of other hardy and early-flowering subjects. The natural order in which it is classed includes many beautiful genera, both as regards their floral effect and anatomical structures. Veratrwm, Uvularia, and Colchicum are, perhaps, the more familiar, and the last-mentioned genus is a very nearly allied one. A feature of the genus Bulbocodium is implied by the name itself, which means " a wool-covered bulb." This quality, however, will be more observable when the bulb is in a dormant state ; it exists under the envelope. The crocus or saffron -like flowers are aptly named "Spring SafEron," though there is a great botanical difference to be seen between this genus and that of Colchicum when the flower is dissected. The bloom is produced OLD-FASHIONED GARDEK FLOWEES. 47 from the midst of an ample sheatli and overlapping leaves, which are only just visible in the early season of this year ; the perianth of six petal-like divisions is 2in. to Sin. across when expanded, and of various shades and colours, as already stated ; the segments are completely divided, being continued from the throat of the perianth to the ovary by long tapering bases, called nails, claws, or ungues. The leaves are stout, broadly strap- shaped, channelled, and of a deep green colour. The bulb is ratter small ; its form resembles that of the autumn crocus, as also does its mode of growth and reproduction. The early blossoms of this bulb soon disappear, and though the roots are all the better for being well ripened, a thin patch of some of the finer annuals sown in spring amongst their withering leaves will not do much harm, and will prove useful as gap-stoppers. Another good way is to grow these dwarf bulbous flowers with a carpet of creepers, of which there are scores in every way suita.ble ; and where nothing else is available or to be grown with success, the small-leaved ivy will answer well. The dwarf phloxes, however, are more useful; their browned spreading branches form a neutral but warm-looking ground to the pui'ple blossoms ; besides, by the time all trace of the Bulbocodium has shrivelled up, they begin to produce their sheets of bloom. All such prostrate forms not only preserve dwarf winter flowers from the mud, but otherwise give effect to the borders. This bulb thrives best in light soil, well drained; in sheltered nooks it may be had in flower a month earlier than in exposed parts. Under such conditions it increases very fast, and the bulbs may be transplanted with advantage every other year after the tops have died off. In stifE or clay -like soil it dwindles and dies. Flowering period, January to March. Calthus Palustris Flore-pleno. Double Mabsh Marigold ; Old Common Name, " Meadow Bootes "; Nat. Ord. Ranunculace^. The typical, or single-flowering variety of this plant is a British species, and a rather common one ; but the pleasing habit and bright, finely-formed, orange-yellow flower of this double kind renders it a suitable plant for any garden. It is herbaceous and perennial, and loves boggy situations. It is, however, very accommodating, and will be found to do well in ordinary garden soil, especially if it be a stiffish loam ; clayey land is well adapted for it. No matter what kind of weather prevails, it has always a neat and fresh appearance. By the illustration (Kg. 22) the reader will doubtless recognise its familiar form. As already stated, its flowers are orange-yeUow, very full, with petals evenly arranged ; they are lin. across, and produced on round, short, 48 HAEDT PEEBNNIAI,S AND hollow Stems, seldom more than 9m. high. The forked flower stalks are furnished with embracing leaves, difEermg very much from the others, which are stalked, heart-shaped, nearly round, and evenly-toothed. All the foliage is of a rich dark shining green colour. Strong specimens produce flowers for a long time, fully two months, and frequently they burst into blossom again in the autumn. Individual flowers are very last- ing, and, moreover, are very effective in a cut state. It is a robust grower, providing it is not in light dry soil ; it seems with me to do equally well fully exposed to sunshine and in partial shade, but both posi- tions are of a moist character. It has long fleshy roots, which allows of its being transplanted at any time, early spiing being the best, to increase it. The crowns should be divided every when there will be found to be ample roots to Fia. 22. Calihcs Faxhstbis Flobe- Pleno. (One-half natural size.) three years, each one. .Flowering period, April to June. Calystegia Pubescens Flore-pleno. Nat. Ord. OoNTOLViriACE^. This double Convolvulus is a somewhat recent introduction from China ; it is hardy and perennial. So distinct are its large flesh-coloured flowers that they are often taken at the first glance, when cut, for double pyrethmms or chrysanthemums, but, seen in connection with the plant, the form of foliage and climbing or twining habit of the bindweed soon enable the most casual observer of flowers to recognise its genus. The flowers are 2in. to Sin. across, petals long, narrow, wavy, and reflexed; these are well held together by the five-parted calyx, further supported by a bract of two small but stout leaves. The flower stalks are round and wiry. Sin. or 4in. long ; they are produced aU along the twining stems, which are only of the moderate length of 5ft. or 6ft. The leaves are of the well-known Convolvulus form. I find it a good plan to grow this subject amongst tall and early flowering plants, such as lupins, foxgloves, and lUies, the OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWEES. 49 old stems of which form ample supports for the climber ; more- over, they are rendered less unsightly from being thus furnished anew with leaf and flower, even though not their own. Another method is in early summer to place a short twiggy branch over the pushing growths ; it will soon become covered, and if not too large, the ends of the shoots will slightly outgrow the twigs and hang down in a pleasing manner. The plant should be started in light sandy loam and have a warm situation, otherwise flowers will be scarce and the whole specimen have a weedy appearance. When once it becomes established, it will be found to spread rapidly by means of its running roots, which, unless checked, wiU soon become a pest. I simply pull out all growths except such as shoot up in the desired position, and so continue to treat them as weeds throughout the growing season. Stems furnished with flowers a yard or more long, in a cut state, make rich festoons ; single blooms (the smaller ones) look well as " button- holes," being neat and effective, without gaudiness. I ought to state that a succession of flowers is kept up for fully three months ; this fact adds not a little to the value of this handsome flesh-coloured bloomer. Roots may be transplanted at any time ; the smallest piece will produce a blooming plant the first season, if put into a proper soil and situation. Flowering period, July to September. Campanula Grandis. Geeat Bbllflowbe ; Nat. Ord. Oampanttlace^. A HAEDT herbaceous perennial from Siberia, growing to a height of 3ft. Its flowers are large, bright, and numerous ; well-estab- lished clumps will present masses of bloom for more than a month with average weather. As a large showy subject there are few plants more reliable, or that can in any way excel it, more especially for town gardens. It is a rampant grower, quickly covering large spaces by means of its progressive roots ; in gardens or collections where it can only be allowed a limited space, the running habit of the roots will doubtless prove troublesome, and often such free growers, however handsome they may be otherwise, are esteemed common, which should not be. The proper thing to do would be to give these vigorous and fine flowering subjects such quarters as will allow them their natural and unrestrained development. The flowers of C. grandis are more than lin. across the corolla, the five segments being large and bluntly pointed, of a trans- parent purple-blue colour, and very enduring ; they are arranged on short stalks, which issue from the strong upright stems. They form little tufts of bloom at every joint for a length of nearly 2ft. ; the succession, too, is well kept up. Buds continue to form long after the earliest have opened. The leaves are 4in. so SARDT PBfcENNIAtS AN» to Sin. long and fin. wide, lanoe-shaped, stalkless, and finely toothed. They are arranged in round tufts on the unproductive crowns, and they remain green throughout the winter. As regards soU, any kmd will do ; neither is the question of position of any moment beyond the precaution which should be taken against its encroachments on smaller subjects. In the partial shade of shrubs it not only flowers well but proves very effective. Useful as this plant is in the garden, it becomes far more so ia a cut state. When it is needful to make up a bold vase or basket of flowers for room decoration, it can be quickly and effectively done by a liberal use of its long, leafy, but weU-bloomed spikes ; five or six of them, 2ft. to 3ft. long, based with a few large roses, pseonies, or sprays of thalictrum, make a noble ornament for the table, hall, or sideboard, and it is not one of the least useful flowers for trays or dishes when cut short. Propagated by division at any time, the parts may be planted at once in their blooming quarters. Flowering period, June and July. Campanula Latifolia. Beoad-leaved Bellflowee; Nat. Ord. Oampanulace«. A Beitish species, very much resembUng C. grandis, but some- what taller, and flowering a little earlier; the latter quality has induced me to mention it, as it offers a fine spike for cutting pui-poses before the above is ready. Culture, uses, and propagation, the same as for G. grandis. Flowering period, June and July. Campanula Persicifolia. Peach-leaved Bellelowee ; Old Common Names, " Peach- BELs" and " Steeple-eels " ; Nat. Ord. CAMPANrLACE^. This good " old-fashioned" perennial has had a place in English gardens for several hundred years ; it is stUl justly and highly esteemed. It is a well-known plant, and as the specific name is descriptive of the leaves, I wUl only add a few words of Gerarde's respecting the flowers : " Alongst the stalke growe many flowers like bels, sometime white, and for the most part, of a faire blewe colour ; ijut the bels are nothing so deepe as they of the other kindes, and these also are more delated and spred abroade then any of the reste." The varieties include single blue (type) and white, double blue, and different forms of double white. In aU cases the corolla is cup or broad bell shaped, and the flowers are sparingly produced on slightly foliaged stems, 18in. to 3ft. high; there are, however, such marked distinctions belonging to G. p. alba A.-pl. ia two forms that they deserve OLD-FASSIONBt) GARDEN PtOWERS. 51 special notice ; they are very desirable flowers, on the score of both quaintness and beauty. I will first notice the kind with two corollas, the inner bell of which will be more than an inch deep, and about the same in diameter. The outer coroUa is much shorter, crumpled, rolled back, and somewhat marked with green, as if intermediate in its nature between the larger coroUa and the calyx. The whole flower has a droll but pleasing form, and I have heard it not inaptly called " Grandmother's Prilled Cap." The other kind has five or more corollas, which are neatly arranged, each growing less as they approach the centre. In all, the segments are but slightly divided, though neatly formed ; this flower is of the purest white and very beautiful, resembling a small double rose. It is one of the best flowers to be found at its season in the borders, and for cutting purposes I know none to surpass it; it is clean and durable. So much are the flowers esteemed, that the plant is often grown in pots for forcing and conservatory decoration, to which treatment it takes kindly. In the open all the above varieties grow freely in any kind of garden soil, but if transplanted in the autumn into newly-dug quarters they will in every way prove more satisfactory; this is not necessary, but if cultivation means anything, it means we should adopt the best-known methods of treatment towards all the plants we grow, and certainly some of the above Bellflowers are deserving of all the care that flowers are worth. Flowering period, July to September, Campanula Pyramidalis. Pteamidal or Ohisinet Oampanitla; Nat. Ord. Oampanulacb.«!. This herbaceous perennial is a very old flower in this country ; it came from Camiola in the year 1594 It is very hardy, and for several months together it continues to produce its large lively blue flowers, beginning in July and lasting until stopped by frosts. At no time is it in finer form than in September ; at the height of from 5ft. to 7ft. it proves richly efEective amongst the blooming hollyhocks, where, as regards colour, it supplies the " missing link" (see Pig. 23). The flowers are a light bright blue colour, and lin. to IJin. across. The corolla is bell-shaped, the five divisions being deeply cut, which allows the flower to expand well; the calyx is neat and smooth, the segments long and awl-shaped ; the flower stalks are short, causing the numerous erect branches to be closely furnished with bloom during favourable weather. The leaves of the root are very large and stalked, of iri-egular shape, but for the most part broadly oval or lance-shaped. The edges are slightly toothed, having minute glands; those of the stems are much smaller, sessile, and long egg-shaped ; all the foliage is E 2 52 HAEDT PERENNIALS AND smooth, and of a dark green colour ; the main stems are very stout, and sometimes grow to the height of 7ft. Yigorous plants will send up several of these, from which a great number of small ones issue, all assuming an erect habit ; blooming speci- mens are hardly anything else than a wand-like set of flowered stems, and though it is advisable to stake them, I have seen them bend and wave during high winds without damage. In the borders and shrubbery this is a very effective subject ; it is amongst herbaceous plants what the Lombardy poplar is Fia. 23. Campanula PrBAMiDALis. (One-twentieth natural size ; a, one-lmlf natural size.) amongst forest trees— tall, elegant, and distract. Its use, however, is somewhat limited, owing to the stiffness of the stems and the shortness of the flower stalks; but when grown in pots as it often is— for indoor decoration, it proves useful for standing amongst orange and camellia trees. It has very strong tap roots, and enjoys a deep rich loam. Not only does it look well among trees, but otherwise the partial shade of such quarters seems conducive to finer bloom, riowering period, July to October. OLD-FASHIONED GAEDEM FtOWEES. SS C. p. alba is a white flowering variety of the above species ; its other points of distinction are its smaller-sized leaves and much paler green colour, by which alone the plants may be easily recognised from the type. This variety may be grown with good effect in pots or the border ; it scarcely gets so tall as the blue form, but looks well by the side of it. The readiest way to increase these plants is to take the young and dwarf growths from the woody crown of the roots, paring ofi a little of the bark with each. If these are put in sandy loam during the warm growing season and kept shaded for a few days, they will very soon make plenty of roots ; this method in no way damages the flowers. Another way is by seed, but seedlings are two years before they bloom. Campanula Speciosa. Showy Haeebell; Nat. Ord. Oampanulace.s!. A COMPAEATITELT new species, brought from Siberia in 1825, and sometimes called C. glomerata dahurica. It is a good hardy plant, perennial and herbaceous, and one of the earliest to flower. It has a distinct appearance ; it nearly resembles C. aggregata, but the latter does not flower until several weeks later. Apart from its likeness to other species of the genus, it is a flrst-class border flower, having large bells of a fine deep purple colour, and, unlike many of the Harebells, is not over tail, but usually about a foot high, having a neat habit. The flowers are arranged in dense heads, whorl fashion, having very short stalks ; they are nearly 2in. long and bell shaped. The leaves (radical) are oval heart-shaped and stalked ; those of the stems are sessile ; the whole plant is hairy and robust. This is one of the flowers which can hardly be planted out of place in any garden, except- ing amongst the rare and very dwarf alpines ; it is not only true to its name, " showy," but handsome. It will grow and flower well in the worst soil and needs no sort of care ; it would be fine in lines by a shrubbery, and is effective in bold clumps ; and though a new kind, it belongs to a race of " old-fashioned " flowers, amongst which it would mix appropriately. Increased by division in autumn. ^lowering period, June and July. Campanula Waldsteiniana. Nat Ord. OAMPANrLACE.ffi:. A EAEE and distinct alpine species from Oarinthia. It proves perfectly hardy in this cJimate. For the rook garden it is a gem of the first water, its habit being dwarf, dense, and rigid; flori- ferous as many of the Bellflowers are, I know none to excel this one. As may be observed in the following description, there are 54 HAEDT PEEENNIALS AND not a few distinctive traits about it, wHch, more or less, go to make it a desirable subject for rare and choice collections. The flowers are a glistening bluish-Ulao, erect, and fin. across when fully expanded. The corolla can hardly be said to be bell- shaped, as the five divisions are two-thii-ds of its depth, which allows it, when full blown, to become nearly flat, and as the segments are equal, sharply cut, and pointed, the flower has a star-like appearance. The little calyx is cup-shaped, angular, and has small, stout, horn-like segments, which are bent down- wards. Each flower has a pedicel about lin. long, which springs from the axUs of the main stem leaves ; the stems seldom exceed the height of 4ia. or 5in., and they are exceed- ingly fine, thready, as also are the peflicels ; they are, more- over, of zig-zag form, from node to node. The leaves are fin. long, and less than 4in. wide, ovate or nearly cordate, partially folded, and sometimes reflexed at the ends, nearly stalkless, slightly toothed, smooth, of good substance and a peculiar grey- green colour. The foliage for two or three weeks is completely hidden by the large number of flowers, during which time it is a most attractive subject. I grow it with other dwarf Campanulas in a collection bed, where it compares well with the finest, such as C. pulla, C. mv/ralis, and 0. Zoysii, for efEectiveness. Having proved it to thrive well in light sandy soil of a vegetable character, I have not tried it otherwise ; it enjoys a sunny situation. The site should be well drained; it will endure nothing like stagnant moisture — its peculiar roots would iudioate this fact, they are not only tender and fleshy, but thick and of a pith-like nature, and, as I have never been able to gather any seed, and the pro- pagation has to be carried out by root division, there requires to be a careful manipulation of these parts, for not only do they split and break with the least strain, but when so mutilated they are very liable to rot. I have found it by far the better plan to divide this plant after it has begun to grow in March or April, when its fine shining black shoots, which resemble horse hairs in appearance, are about Jin. high. Slugs are fond of this plant ; a dressing once a week of sand and soot, when it begins to grow, will keep them ofE. Flowering period, July and August. Centaurea Montana. Mountain Knapweed ; Nat. Ord. Composite. This is an " old-fashioned " and favourite flower. Every one must be familiar with its thistle-like formed flowers ; it is some- times called the large or perennial Cornflower and also the Large Bluebottle. The blue variety has been grown in English gardens eioce 1696. There are now white and pink coloured OLD-rASHIONED GARDEN FL0WEE3. 55 varieties, all rampant growers, very hardy and perennial. They are in every way superior to the annual kind, which is so largely grown, the flowers beiag more than twice the size, and produced two months eai-lier; the blooming period is maintained until late autumn. The flowers, as before hinted, are thistle-shaped ; the pericline or knob just under the florets is cone-shaped, covered with evenly set and pointed scales, green, edged with a brown margin, set round with short bristle-like teeth. The florets of the outer ring are liia. long, tubular haM their length, the wider portion being five to seven out ; the centre florets are short and irregular, richly tinted with pink at their bases ; the whole flower or ray, when expanded, is Sin. across. They are produced on stems over 2ft. long and of a somewhat procumbent habit, angular and branched near the tops ; the leaves are Sin. to 6in. long, lance-shaped, entire and decurrent, giving the stems a winged appearance. They are of a greyish colour — nappy — whence the name Knapweed. This vigorous species, with its white and pink varieties, may be grown in any kind of soil. It requires plenty of room ; a two- year-old plant will form a specimen a yard in diameter under favourable conditions. The effect is good when all the three colours are grown near each other in bold pieces. They yield an unfailing supply of flowers, which are of a very useful type ; in fact, the more they are cut the more they seem to bloom, and it is a good plan to cut short half the stems about June. They wUl (in a week or two) produce new shoots and large flowers in abun- dance, the gain being flowers of extra size during autumn. Propagated by division of the roots any time. Flowering period, June to September. Centranthus Ruber. 8yn. Valeeiana Rtjbee — Red Yalbeian; Nat. Ord. VALEEIANACE.a;. This is a strong and vigorous garden plant, with a somewhat shrubby appearance ; it is herbaceous, perennial, and sometimes classed as a British species, therefore hardy; but though its classification among British plants is justifiable, it is only so on the ground of its being a naturalised subject, its original habitats being in the South of Europe, It is a favourite and "old- fashioned" flower, and it fully justifies the estimation in which it is held, the flowers being produced in large bunches of a fine rich colour, which are very durable. Its shrubby habit is not one of its least recommendations ; seen at a distance — which it easily can be — it might be taken for a ruby-coloured rhododendron, to which, of course, it has no resemblance when closely inspected. It grows 2ft. high or more. 5TS. It is an abundant bloomer, and a good specimen is a glorious object during the antnmn. It comes from North America, but my experience of it is that it is not so hardy as C. lanceolata and C. auriculata. Habit, uses, culture, and propagation, as for C. lanceolata. Coreopsis Lanceolata. SpEAE-LEATED OoEEOPSIS; Nat. Ord. C0MP0SIT.ffi!. This form of bright yellow flower is in great favour dunng August, but that is not all. The various kinds of this genus are plants of the easiest culture, and their rich flowers are produced in great quantities from midsummer to the time the frosts begin. This species has been said to be only of a biennial character ; it is, however, vmderstood generally to be perennial, though not quite so hardy as others which come from the colder climates of America. It was imported from Carolina in 1724, and in this counti-y proves hardy in selected situations, where its roots are comparatively dry in winter, and I may add that it proves a true perennial. When the plant has attained the height of a foot it begins to flower; each bloom has a long pedicel, nearly naked, also round and smooth. The flowers are a shining yellow colour, and nearly Sin. across; the florets of the ray are flatly arranged, shield-shaped, pleated, and four-toothed, the teeth being some- times jagged ; the disk is small for so large a flower ; the florets brown and yellow. The double involucrum, common to the genus, has its upper set of bracteoles rolled outward ; they are of a brownish colour ; the lower set are green and wheel-shaped during the period of a perfect ray, and they alternate with the upper ones. The leaves, as may be inferred from the specific name, are lance-shaped, 2in. to 6in. long, smooth and entire; they are attenuated to the stems, which they more or less clasp. The habit of the plant is much branched, but only slightly at base ; it becomes top-heavy from the numerous shoots near the top, which cause it to be procumbent; otherwise this subject would rank with tall growers. It is one of tlae most useful OLD-FASHIONED GAEDBN FLOWERS. 67 (lowers, botli in the garden and when cut, the long stalks in both oases adding much to its effectiveness ; its form and brightness are sure to commend it, no matter whether it happens to be a ' fashionable flower or otherwise. It is at once a bold and delicate form, and one that harmonises with any other kinds and colours. It should be grown in deeply-dug and weU-enriched earth, and, as already hinted, the drier the situation the more safely will it winter. Not only that, but on raised beds or banks sloping to the full sunshine it will also flower to perfection. All its family, so far as I have proved them, hate excessive moisture. Its pro- pagation may be by division, as in this damp climate it does not seem to ripen seed, but I have found sometimes not a little diiiiculty in dividing the woody roots, as frequently there is only one stem below the surface with roots. When there are more the difficulty is lessened, but I have noticed that the stronger branches which are weighted to the ground form rudi- mentary roots where in contact with the earth. These may either be pegged and covered with soil, or cut off and made into cut- tings, removing most of the tops. If the latter is done during August they will become well rooted before the frosts appear. Flowering period, July to October. Coreopsis Tenuifolia. Slendee-lbaved Ooeeopsis; Nat. Ord. Composite. Haedt, herbaceous, and perennial ; a native of North America, and a distinct species, from its finely-cut foliage and small, dark, orange-yellow flowers. For several weeks it has a few flowers, but during September it literally covers itself with bloom, so that it is one of the most pleasing objects in the garden. It grows 2ft. high ; each flower has a long nearly nude stalk, slender but wiry; the flowers are l^in. across, and of a deep yellow colour ; the florets of the ray are more distant from each other than is the case with many of the genus ; the disk is small, dark brown, but changing from the appearance and dis- appeai-ance of the yellow seed organs. The foliage, as may be seen by the illustration (Fig. 27), is deeply and finely cut, of a dark green colour, and so arranged that each node has a nearly uniform dressing ; the main stems are slender, and bend grace- fully with the least breeze, and otherwise this plant proves a lively subject. Its habit is bushy and very floriferous, and it is well worth a place in every garden. It cannot fail to win admiration ; even when growing, and befoi-e the flowers appear, it is a refreshing plant to look upon. In a cut state, the bloom, if taken with long stems, is well adapted for relieving large and more foimal kinds. Tastes differ, and in, perhaps, nothing more than floral decorations ; all tastes have a right to a share of indulgence, and in claiming my privilege in the use of this ^2 HARDY PEEENNIALS AND flower, I should place two or three sprays (stems) alone in a glass or bright vase, but there might be added a spike of the cardinal flower or a pair of single dahlias and a falling spray of the riame nasturtium {TropcBolum specioswm). This plant should have a rich soil, sunny aspect, and a raised Via. 27. CottEOPSis Tehdifolia. (One-sixtli natural size ; a, haJl natural size.) or well-drained site, and this is aU it needs ; it is not a subject to increase fast ; not only, however, may it be easily divided, but if properly done after the tops have died down, the smallest pieces will make good blooming stock the first season. Flowering period, August and September. Cornus Canadensis. Canadian Cornell, or Doowood ; Nat. Ord. Coenace^. This pretty herbaceous plant is sometimes said to be a British species; its specific name, however, somewhat forbids that opinion. C. suecica, which is British, is very similar in aU its parts, and the two may have been confounded. They flower, OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN TLOWEES. 69 however, at vei-y difierent dates, G. Canadensis beginning in June and contintdng until well into autumn ; during the month of August the flowers are in their finest form and greatest numbers. It grows 6in. to Sin. high, and notwithstanding its dwarfness, it proves a most attractive obiect, being not only conspicuous for so small a plant, but chastely beautiful. The flowers are exceedingly small, strictly speaking, and are arranged in a minute umbel in the midst of a bract of four white pink-tinted leaves; these latter are commonly taken for the Fig. 28. COKwus Canadensis. (One-half natural size.) petals, and, as may be seen ia the illustration (Fig 28), the real flowers will only appear as so many stamens ; but at their earlier stage these are of a yellowish colour; later the purplish style becomes prominent and imparts that colour to the umbel, and, in due time, small fruit are formed. All the while the bract of pleasing white leaves remain in unimpaired condition ; they are arranged in two pairs, one of larger size than the other, some- what heart-shaped and bluntly-poiated, richly tinted at their 70 HARDY PERENNIALS AND edges and tips with a bright pink colour, and forming a flower- like bract IJin. across the broadest part. The bract and pedicels of the umbel all spring from the extremity of a peduncle IJin. long, square, but of wiry character ; this grows from the midst of a whorl of six leaves, and sometimes only four. They are in pairs, one pair being larger than their fellows, and are from IJin. to 2in. long, elliptical-oblong, entire, smooth, waved, dis- tinctly veined, tinted with pink at the tips and edges, and of a pale apple-green colour. On the stem, below the whorl of leaves, there is one pair more, varying only in size, being rather less. The habit of the species is neatness itself. From the slightly creeping roots, the perennial stems are produced separately, forming compact colonies of bright foliage, topped with its lively bracts. It is a suitable plant for the moist parts of rockwork, where it may be grown with such things as Cardamine trifolia, Galax aphylla, Pyrola rotv/ndifolia, and Saliss reticulata, and it would foi-m a rich edging to choice dwarf plants, more especially if the position were gutter-formed, as it loves moisture in abundance. In such positions as those just raentioned, together with a light vegetable soil, this plant will gi'ow to perfection, and that it is worth a proper place is evidenced by its long-continued blooming. Many flowers come and go during its period of attractiveness, and, after the summer flush, it is one to remain, braving alike the hot sunshine and heavy raiu. Its propagation is by division of the roots in autumn or very early spring. Flowering period, June to October. Corydalis Lutea. Yellow Fumitory; Nat. Ord. Fumariace^. A NATIVE herbaceous perennial, though somewhat rare m a wild state. As grown in gardens, where it seems to appreciate cultural attentions, it proves both useful and effective, especially when placed in partial shade (when its foliage has an almost maiden-hair-like appearance), or as an edging it proves both neat and beautiful. It seldom exceeds a foot in height. The flowers are small, a yellow, white and green mixture, the yellow predominating; they are produced in loose spare racemes, on well-f oliaged diffuse stems, which are also angular; the calyx is composed of two leaves; the petals are four, forming a snapdragon-like flower. The leaves are bipinnate, leaflets wedge-shape, trifoliate, and glaucous ; the foliage very dense, having a pretty drooping habit. It flowers all summer, and is one of the most useful plants in a garden to out from, the foliage being more valuable than the flowers. Its native habitats are said to be old walls and ruins, but I OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWERS. 71 have proved it for years to do grandly in ordinary garden soil, both exposed and in the shade o£ fruit trees. When once established it propagates itself freely by seed. I ought to add that it answers admirably grown in pots for window decoration, the rich foliage nearly hiding the pot. Flowering period, May to October. Corydalis Nobilis. Noble or Gbeat-flowered Ooeydalis; FuMARIAOEiE. Nat. Ord. A HARDY tuberose perennial, imported from Siberia in 1783. It is one of that section of the Fumitories called "HoUowe Roote," Fio. 29. CoKTDALis Nobilis. (0ne.half natural sizej tlossom, natural size.) the appropriateness of which name is most amply illustrated in the species now under consideration. If, in the first or second month of the year, a strong specimen is examined, the long and otherwise stout tuberous root will be found, immediately under the healthy and plump crown, to be not only hollow, but so decayed that the lower and heavy fleshy parts of the root, which 72 HARDY PERENNIALS AND are attached to the crown by a narrow and very thin portion of the root bark, in such a way as to suggest that the lower paros might as well be cut off as useless — but, let me say, do not cut it. If it is intended to replant the specimen, let it go back to " Mother Earth " with all its parts, deformed as some may seem to us ; otherwise Corydalis nobilis will be anything but a noble plant at the flowering season ; it may not die, but it will probably make for itself another " hollowe roote " before it pro- duces any flowers. The habit and form of this plant are perfect (see Fig. 29), and there are other points of excellence about it which cannot be shown by an engraving, in the way of the arrangements of colours and shades. Seldom does the little plant, so full of character, exceed a height of Sin. The speci- men from which the drawing was made was 7in., and grown fully exposed in a pot plunged in sand. Another plant, grown on rockwork, " high and dry," is about the same size, but it looks better fed. Probably the long roots are short of depth in pots, and the amount of decay may soon poison the handful of mould contained therein. Be that as it may, the specimens grown in pots have a hungry appearance compared with those less confined at the roots. The flowers are a pleasing mixture of white, yellow, brown, and green. The four petals are of such a shape and so ar- ranged as to form a small snapdragon-like flower. These are densely produced in a terminal cluster in pyramid form on the stout and richly-foliaged stem ; dense as is the head of flowers, every floret is alternated with a richly-cut leaf, both diminishing in size as they near the top. The older flowers become yellow, with two petals tipped with brown, the younger ones have more white and green, and the youngest are a rich blend of white and green ; the head or truss is therefore very beautiful in both form and colom', and withal exquisitely scented, like peach blossom and lilac. The leaves are stalked bipinnate ; leaf- lets three-parted, cut, and glaucous ; there are few plants with more handsome foliage, and its beauty is further enhanced by the gracefully bending habit of the whole compound leaf. The flowers are too stiff for cutting, and otherwise their fine forms, colours, and perfume cannot well be enjoyed unless the plants are grown either in pots or at suitable elevations on rockwork, the latter being the more preferable way. The long blooming period of this plant adds not a little to its value, lasting, as it does, quite a month, the weather having little or no effect on the flowers. Any kind of sweet garden soil seems to do for it, and its pro- pagation is earned out by careful root division. Flowering period, April to June. OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWEES. 73 Corydalis Solida. Common Name, Fumitoey; Nat. Ord. Fumaeiacb^. This is said to he a British species, but it is a doubtful, as well as somewhat scarce one. Though but a small plant of the height of 6ia. or Sin., it is very effective, being compact with finely-cut foliage of a pale glaucous green, and the stems pleasingly tiuted. For some weeks in early spring it forms a graceful object on rockwork, where it seems to thrive well. The flowers, which are purple, are not showy ; still, they are effective from the way in which they are borne, as the illnstra- tion (Fig. 30) will show. Its specific name is in reference to its Tie. 30. COKTDALIS SOllDA. (One-half natural size.) root, which is bulbous and solid. Many of the Fumitories have remarkably hollow roots, and one of the old names of this genus is written " HoUowe roote." When the flowers fade the whole plant withers, nothing being left but the bulbous roots to com- plete their ripening ; still, this should not hinder its extensive cultivation, because it not only appears in its best form when flowers are rare, but also because it is so pleasingly distinct. I find it to do well on rockwork, also in well-draiaed borders of 74 HARDT PERENNIALS AND liglit loam. It sHould be allowed to increase until it forms good- sized tufts, which, it soon does. To propagate it, it is only necessary to divide the tubers any time from July to October. Flowering period, February to May. Crocus Medius. Nat. Ord. lEiDACB.aE. This is &, charming kind, seldom seen and, perhaps, little known; the name would imply that it is a variety having equal traits of two other forms. It blooms in January and the flowers appear without any foliage. So well is the Crocus known, it will only be needful to state the more striking features of the one under notice. The flowers are produced on tubes Sin. to Sin. long, and stoutly formed ; the colour is a shaded lilac-purple, striped with darker lines ; the petals or divisions of the perianth are 14in. long and Jin. broad, shining or satiny, and become well expanded during the short moments of winter sunshine ; the stamens are half the length of perianth, of a fine deep orange colour, and covered with a thick coat of pollen all their visible length. In rich contrast with these is the style, with its tuft of filaments of a bright orange scarlet colour. From this description it will be seen that the flower is a rather small Crocus, but from the soft tints of the perianth, and more pronounced and bright colours of the seed organs, it is one of much beauty. These features, added to the facts of the bloom appearing in winter and having the scent of wild roses, are sure to render it a favourite kind wherever grown. The leaves are short and narrow, almost grassy. It enjoys a light but rich loam and sunny aspect, and increases itself freely by offsets of the matured corms, clumps of which may be divided after the foliage has withered. Flowering period, January. Cyananthus Lobatus. Nat. Ord. POLBMONACB^. A SMALL plant with a large flower, a veritable gem ; no collection of choice alpines can be complete without this species. A native of Chinese Tartary, brought to this country in 1844, where it proves perfectly hardy in the most exposed parts of the open garden; it is herbaceous and perennial; its large and brilliant lowers are very beautiful, but aU its other parts are small, as may be seen in the illustration (Fig. 31). It is seldom met with except in collections of rare plants, but there is no reason why it should not be more commonly grown, as its requii-ements are now well understood. It is not a showy subject, but, when examined, it proves of exquisite beauty. OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWEES. 75 Tie flowers are of a bright purple-blue colour, over an inch, across, the petals being of good substance, tongue-shaped, and falling backwards, when the china-like whiteness about the top of the tube becomes more exposed; the calyx is very large, nearly egg-shaped, having five finely-pointed and deeply-cut segments ; the bulky-looking part, which has an inflated appear- ance, is neatly set on a slender stem, and densely furnished with short black hairs of even length ; this dusky coat has a changeable effect, and adds not only to the character, but also to the beauty of the flower. The small attenuated leaves Tig. 31, Ctanahthus Lobatus, (Natural Bize.) are alternate and laxly arranged on the flower stems, which are 6in. to 12in. long, round, and nearly red. Bach leaf is less than lin. long, distinctly lobed with five or more lobes, and all the edges are turned back, causing the foliage to appear thick and well finished ; the foliage of the stems not bearing flowers is more closely set. The habit of the plant is procumbent ; stems contorted, and producing solitary flowers. It should be grown on rockwork, where its stems can nestle between the stones and its roots find plenty of moisture, as in a dip or hollowed part; the long and fleshy roots love to run in 76 HABDT PERENNIALS AND damp leaf mould and sand. The position should be open and sunny, in order to have flowers. Cuttings may be taken dui-ing summer, and struck in sandy peat kept moist, or strong roots may be divided. The latter method is the less desirable, not only because of jeopardising the parent stock but also because strong roots show to greater advantage when not separated. Flowering period, September and October. Cypripedium Calceolus. English Lady's Slippee ; Nat. Ord. OKCHiDACE.ffi;. This well-known terrestrial orchid is a rare British plant, very beautiful, and much admired, so much so, indeed, that many de- sire to grow it. It happens, how- ever, that it seldom thrives under cultural treatment, and seems to prefer a home of its own selection, but its habitats are said now to be veiy few in Great Britain, it hav- ing been hunted out and grubbed up everywhere. Fortunately, it can be grown in gardens, and in good form, though rarely seen thus. To see well-grown flowers of this orchid either makes us feel more contented with our own cli- mate or strongly reminds us of othei's where the most gorgeous varieties of flowers and fruit grow wild. It is large and striking, fra- grant, and very beautiful ; no one can see it, especially in a growing state, without being charmed by its freshness and simplicity; it also forms one of the finest speci- mens for the student in botany, and in every way it is a plant and flower of the highest merit (see Fig. 32). It should be in aU col- lections of choice plants, and every amateur should persevere until he succeeds in establishing it. Under cultivation it flowers in early May, at a height of 9in. to 12in. ; the flowers are composed of a calyx of three brownish- PlO. 32. CTPEIPEDIUM CALCE0LT7S. (One- third natural size.) purple sepals, which have only the appearance of two, from the OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWERS. 77 fact of the lower two being joined or grown together, and even bo combined they are somewhat less than the upper sepal. The division may be observed at the tips, though in some speci- mens it is microscopic — in the one now by me it is hardly the eighth of an inch. Two petals ; these are cross-form in relation to the sepals, of the same colour, and a little longer — about 2in. — naiTow, drooping, pointed, and slightly twisted when a few days old; lip, "blown out like a slipper," shorter than the sepals, compressed, richly veined, and lemon yellow. The seed organs are curious, the stigma being foot-stalked, peltate, and placed between and above the anthers. The leaves are pale green, very hairy, many-ribbed, stem-clasping, alternate, ovate, and slightly wavy ; the lower ones are 5in. or 6in. long and 2in. to Sin. wide, and pointed. The root is creeping, the fibres stout, long, wiry, and bent. During spring the plant makes rapid growth, and seldom bears more than one flower ; for the first time a plant produced two with me in 1882. They are sweetly scented, like the primrose. Many amateui-s, who have otherwise proved their knowledge of the requirements of plants by growing large and choice collec- tions, have failed to establish this after many trials ; and were it not for the fact that with me it is growing in various positions and under different modes of treatment, and that it has so grown for several years, I think I should not have ventured to give hints to experienced horticulturists. In my opinion, four con- ditions are strictly necessary in order to establish this native orchid in our garden : (1) A strong specimen with a goodly portion of the rhizoma attached ; (2) Firm or solid planting during autumn ; (3) Moist situation; (4) Shade from the mid-day sun. Further information may be best given by stating the modus operandi : Several years ago a number of good roots were planted in sandy loam of a calcareous nature. They were put in somewhat deeply, the roots carefully spread out, and the soil made solid by repeated waterings, the position being shaded by an apple tree. They are now well established, and only receive a top dressing of leaves and manure to keep them cool and moist in summer. At the same time a number were potted deeply in loam, peat, and broken oyster shells ; when filling in the compost, it, too, was washed to the roots, so as to make all solid by fre- quent applications ; the pots have always been kept in cool and shady quarters, and plunged; they bloom well every season. I have likewise found another plan to answer well. In a moist corner make up a low-lying bed of sand and peat, mostly sand, plant 9in. deep, and make all solid, as before, by water. When the growths appear on the surface, water with weak liquid manure, and if shade does not exist from the mid-day sun, some should be provided ; in this way I am now growing my finest specimens ; but if once the roots become dry, the plants will 78 HAEDT PEKENNIALS AND suffer a serious check. I feel equally confident that the roots enjoy a firm bed, but it should be of such material that they can freely ran in it. Flowering period, May and June. Taphne Cneorum. TsAiLisra Daphne; Common and Poetical Name, Garland Plowek; Nat. Ord. Thtmelace^. An alpine shrub from Austria ; dwarf, evergreen, and having Ta tendency to creep. It is deservedly a great favourite ; it wins admiration by its neat and compact form and its dense and numerous half-globular heads of rosy pink flowers, which are exceedingly fragrant, in the way of the old clove carnation, but more full. The flower buds are formed during the previous season of growth, like those of the rhododendron; for many days before the flowers open the buds have a Fig. 33. Daphne Ci»eordm. (Oae-fouith natural size ; (1) flower, full size.) very pleasing appearance, being closely packed and coral-like; when all the florets are expanded they form a half-globular head lin. to l^in. across, being of a lively pink colour. The flowers are composed of a tubular calyx, four-parted ; leaves inversely ovate, lanceolate, pointed, and entire ; about an inch long, and OLD-FASHIONED GAKDEN FLOWEES. 79 narrow ; of a dark green colour and mucli substance, being arranged in circular form on the round and somewbat wiry, tougb stems, which in time become very long and bare. In order to grow this shrub well, three conditions are needful, viz., a moderately pure atmosphere, exposure to full sunshine, and plenty of moisture ; it also prefers peat or vegetable soil, but this is not stiictly needful if the other conditions are present. I have grown the specimen, from part of which the illustration (Fig. 33) was drawn, for four years in rich loam, without a pai-ticle of peat, but the roots have been protected against drought by large stones at the base of small rockwork. Doubt- less, peat, where it is plentiful, used in addition to the above compost, would prove beneficial. After a few years' growth in one position, bushes which have become long and bare in the stems may be transplanted with advantage, laying in the stems to a moderate depth, from which new roots will issue the first season ; this is also the readiest way of propagation. February or September would be suitable months for such operation, but the latter would probably interfere with its flowering at that time, when frequently a second but spare crop is produced. Flowering periods, April and May, and again in September. Daphne Mezereum. Mezeeeon; Old Names, Spttege-I'LAx, Geeman Olite-spttege, and DwAEF Bay ; Nat. Ord. Thtmelacb.«!. This is a dwarf deciduous shrub, which produces its welcome flowers in great abundance whilst bare of leaves ; it is a British species, though not occurring generally, yet it is pretty well known from its extensive cultivation as a garden shrub. The flowers are very desirable, from the way in which they are pro- duced in knotted clusters on the long stems; they appear in winter; moreover, they are of a hardy and durable nature and very sweetly scented. As a shrub it is very suitable for any sized garden, being dwarf — 2ft. to 4ft. In some parts it is a general favourite, and may be seen in almost every garden; such patronage is well merited, as it not only enlivens the garden at a dead season, but it heralds spring time and furnishes long sprigs of wallflower-scented blossom as cut bloom, which shows to advantage by gaslight. There are interesting facts in connection with this shrub that add to its charm. It was esteemed of old of great virtue ; all its parts are hot and biting, more especially the berries, of which it was said that " if a drunkard do eate — he cannot be allured to drinke any drinke at that time : such will be the heate of his mouth and choking in the throte." Its wood is very soft and tough, and cannot easily be broken ; this, however is a quality common to the genus. The berries are poisonous to man, but 80 HAEDT PEBENNIAtS AND birds are so fond of them that they are rarely allowed to become ripe, at least, such is the case near towns. The seeds of this and allied species are used in the South of Europe as a yellow dye for wool. IVom its importance, the shrub has been long and widely known, and both its botanical and common names are numerous; for these, however, the reader may not care. It is seldom called by any other than its specific name, Mezereon, which Gerarde describes as English-Dutch. Its flowers, which are purple, come on the otherwise naked stems of last season's growth, lateral fashion, in threes mostly, and sometimes the blossomed stems will be over a foot in length ; the flowers are ^in. long, sessile and funnel-shaped; the Emb four-cut ; sweet smelling and very durable. The berries are the size of a small pea, bright green at first, then tui-ning to red, and ultimately to a nearly black colour. The leaves — lance-shaped, smooth, and deciduous — appear after the flowers. The habit is branched and erect, forming neat bushes. In a wild state it flowers in March and April, but under cultivation it is much earlier. In the garden it may be planted under other trees, where it proves one of a scarce class of shade-loving flowering shrubs ; it also does well in open quarters. In gardens, where its fruit is unmolested, it is, perhaps, more attractive than when in blossom, as then the foliage adds to its beauty. The flowers in a cut state are serviceable, pretty, and desirable from their sweetness ; long sprigs mixed with lavender or rosemary form a winter bouquet not to be despised ; or, it may be placed in a vase, with a few small- leaved ivy trails and a spray of evergreen bamboo (Metake). Gerarde's description of this shrub will, doubtless, be read with interest : " The braunches be tough, limber, and easie to bend, very soft to be cut ; whereon do grow long leaves like those of priuet, but thicker and fatter. The flowers come foorth before the leaves, oftentimes in the moneth of Januarie, clustering togither about the stalks at certain distances, of a whitish colour tending to purple, and of a most fragrant and pleasant sweet smell. After come the smal berries — of an exceeding hot and burning taste, inflaming the mouth and throte of those that do i aste thereof, with danger of choking." Flowering period, February to April. There is a variety called D. M. album; the only difference from the typical form is implied by the name, the flowers being white. It also is in bloom at the same time as the species. J>. M. autumnale is another variety, which, however, blooms in the autumn ; the flowers are red ; it is a native of Europe. These shrubs enjoy a light but moist soil of a vegetable nature, but they also thrive in a sandy loam. They may be increased by seed, or, more quickly, by grafting on stocks of spurge laurel ; cuttings may be rooted, but are imcertain. OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN rLOWEES. 81 Dentaria Digitata. TOOTHWOET; Nat. Ord. Ckuciper^. A HAEDT, tuberous perennial, native of Switzerland, but long cultivated in British gardens, and decidedly "old-fasbioned." Imagine a spray of pale purple wallflower, and that will give some idea of the form and colour of its flowers, which are produced on round wiry stems, nearly a foot high, in terminal racemes. The leaves, which are produced mostly in threes on a stem, have a channelled petiole, and, as the specific name denotes, are spread out like fingers, mostly of five parts ; a five-cut leaf of a Christmas rose will give a fair notion of the form, but the Toothwort leaves are less, not so thick, and more herb-like than the hellebore; they are also finely, deeply, but irregularly toothed. The roots ai'e of singular form, almost like human teeth, aiTanged as scales, whence the name Toothwort. Its first appearance above ground is in February, when the young growths are bent or folded like those of the anemone, and in genial seasons it will flower early in March. It loves both a little shade and moisture. I grow it at the base of a bit of rockwork, in black or leaf mould ; the aspect is south-east, but an old sun-dial screens it from the midday sun. The whole plant has a somewhat quaint appearance, but it has proved a great favourite. When the tops have died down the roots can safely be lifted, cut in lengths of one or two inches, and then replanted. It also produces seed freely, but from the easy method of increase by root division, I have not had occasion to experiment with seed. Flowering period, March to May. Dianthus Deltoides. Maiden Pink ; Old Names, " Wild Gilloflowbk," " Vikgin- LiKE Pinke," " Maidenly Pinke "; Nat. Ord. Cakto- phyllacb^ — Silenacb^. A British species of perennial character, never failing to bloom for a long period when it meets with a suitable home in our gar- dens — as in positions ' similar to those described tor Erysimum pwmilum. Seen either wild or in gardens it is much admired; it bears but simple flowers, but therein consists its beauty. As Gerarde says, " Virgin-like Pinke is hke unto the rest of the garden pinkes in stalkes, leaves, and rootes. The flowers are of a blush colour, whereof it tooke his name, which sheweth the difference f i-om the other." It is about the most simple form of the Pink tribe. The flowers are a little over Jin. aci'oss, of a rose coloTir or pleasing blush. It grows nearly a foot high in some soils, but in a poor compost it is more dwarf and floriferous. The flower stems are much divided near the tops, and capable of producing a good effect from their numbers of bright flowers. 82 HARDY PEfiENNIALS AND The leaves are small, scarcely lin. long, linear, lance-shaped, and of a dark green colour ; they are closely arranged on decumbent stems, which sometimes are more than 1ft. long. The habit is compact, both as regards leaves, stems, and flowers. For all such places as afford dryness at the roots this is a suitable plant as a constant bloomer of effective colour. When once it has become established it seeds freely, and the young plants may be seen in the walks for yards around the parent stock. It is one of those happy subjects that can take care of themselves, either braving its enemies or having none. In its wild state it blooms from the sixth to the tenth month, both inclusive; but with cultural attention and during favourable winters, it has been seen in flower to the end of the year. Flowering period, June to October. Dianthus Hybridus. Syn. D. MuLTirLOKUS ; Mule Pink; Nat. Ord. Oakyophyllace^. Hardy and evergreen. The specific name of this variety is not at all descriptive, and it may be better to at once give its common name of Mule Pink, of which there are various colours, as bright scarlet, rose and pure white, all very double and neat flowers. It is the double rose kind which has induced me to speak of this section of the Pink and SweetwiUiam family. I dare say many will be surprised when I state that my strongest plant of this has been in flower more than two years. Severe as the 1881 winter was, when the plant was clear of snow it was seen to have both flowers and buds — in fact, for two years it has flowered unceasingly; the other varieties are not such per- sistent bloomers. The genus to which these hybrids belong is very numerous, and includes Carnations, Picotees, garden and alpine Pinks and Sweetwilliams. They are all remarkable for their fi-esh green and glaucous foliage and handsome flowers. Some species or varieties are amongst the " old-fashioned " garden plants of Parkinson's time, and all are characterised by an exquisite perfume. The Latin name of this genus is a very happy one, meaning " divine flower," in reference to its fragrance. Nearly every form and colour of Dianthus are popular favour- ites, and hardly any garden is without some of them. The Mule Pink is supposed to have been produced from B. harbatus and D. plumarius ; be that as it may, the features of both are distinctly seen in it : the colour and partial form of the foliage, the form of stems, and clustered arrangement of the buds much resemble D. harhatus or SweetwiUiam ; whilst the stout reflexed and pointed features of the leaves, and the general form of the small but double flowers resemble D. plumarius, or the garden Pink. To this description of D. hybridus I will only OliD-VASHIONEt) GAEDEU FtOWEES. 63 add that in both foliage and flowers there is more substance than in either of its reputed parents, and the habit of the plant is semi-trailing or procumbent, as seen in specimens three years old. It is rather more difficult to grow than the common Pink. Any position or soil will not answer ; it does well on rookwork, where it can hardly suffer from damp, so much disliked by all the genus ; but if thus planted, it should be where its thickly- folia.ged stems cannot be turned over and wrenched by strong winds. It may be grown in borders in sandy loam ; and if such borders are well drained, as they always should be for choice flowers, there will be little to fear as to its thriving. Such an excellent flower, which, moreover, is perpetually produced, deserves some extra care, though, beyond the requirements already mentioned, it will give very little trouble. To increase it, the readiest way is to layer the shoots about midsummer, half cutting through the stems, as for Carnations ; thus treated, nice plants will be formed by October, when they may be lifted and transplanted to their blooming quarters ; and I may here state that a line of it, when in flower, is richly effective. A good style also is to make a bold clump by setting ten or twelve plants 9in. apart. Another mode of propagation is to take cuttings at midsummer and dibble them into boxes of leaf soil and sand. Keep them shaded and rather close for a week or more. If the boxes could be placed in a cucumber frame, the bottom heat and moisture would be a great help to them. The object to aim at should be not only to root the cuttings, but to grow them on to fair-sized plants for putting out in the autumn. To do this, when the cuttings are rooted they should be planted 6in. apart in a bed made up of well decayed manure and sand, in which it will be seen that they will make plenty of roots and become stui'dy plants. The wireworm and slugs are both very fond of Pinks and Carnations. Slugs should be trapped, but the wireworm, unfortunately, has often done the mischief before we become aware of its presence, and even then it is a troublesome pest to get rid of. I find notliing more usef al than stirring and digging the soil as soon as there is room to work with a spade or fork; the worm cannot endure frequent disturbance, and such operations are otherwise beneficial to the plants. Mowering period. May to September Dodecatheon Jeffreyanum. Nat. Ord. PEiMULACEa:. This is a distinct and noble species. The older leaves are more spoon-shaped, at least a foot long, rather narrow, not toothed, of a reddish colour at the base, and the mid-rib pale green, almost straw-colour ; the flower scape is also reddish, but the flowers are fewer. As a foliage plant this species is very effective. g2 84 HAEDT PEEENNIALS AND All the Dodecatheons make a rapid growth in spring, their scapes being developed with the leaves ; the genus will continue in flower for two months, after which time, however, their foliage begins to dry up. They should, therefore, be planted with other subjects of later growth and blooming, so as to avoid blank spaces. The oversbading foliage of other thirgs will do them no harm, as it will be only for a season. The position should be moist and somewhat sheltered from high winds, or the stout and tender flower stems will be snapped off. The soil should be of a vegetable character and retentive of moisture. My speci- mens are grown in leaf soil and loam, in a dip of small rockwork. All the kmds were planted that a large flat stone, which we had ready, would so fit to, or over, them as to secure their roots against drought. This I find a good plan with moisture-loving subjects, where suitable positions are not otherwise readily offered. Besides, the varieties so grown have a pleasing appearance, and for purposes of comparison are very handy. Their propagation is easy. The crowns may be divided either in spring or autumn, the latter being the best time, as then probably each piece will flower the following spring. Flowering period, April to June. Dodecatheon Meadia. Shooting Star, or American Cowslip; Nat.Ord.VsiMxrLA.ciiSi. A DISTINCT and pretty herba- ceous perennial, very hardy and floriferous. Those who do not readily recognise it by any of the above names, may do so by the illustration (Fig. 34). It has long been grown in English gardens — nearly 150 years — its habitat being North America. Not only does it do well in this climate, but since its introduction several improved varieties of this species have been produced, which are both good and distinct. A brief notice of them will not be out of place here, but first the general description may as well be given. The flowers much resemble the Cyclamen, but they are only Fie, 34. DODECATHEOH Measu, (One-Bixth natural Bize.) OlD-FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWEES. 85 about one-fourth the size ; the calyx is five-parted ; the corolla has five stout petals inserted in the tube of calyx ; they are well reflexed and rather twisted ; their colour is purplish-lilac, but at the base of the petals there is a rich blending of maroon and yellow. The seed organs are very long, compact, and pointed, giving the appearance of shooting stars. The fiowers are arranged m fine clusters on a scape more than a foot high, each flower having a rather long, wiry, and gi'acefully bending pedicel ; all of them spring from one centre. The leaves are radical, oblong, smooth, dented, and wavy, about Sin. long and nearly Sin. broad. D. M. albiflorum I do not grow, but from what I remember of it, it differs from the above only in being less vigorous and in having white flowers. D. M. elegans. — Shorter and broader in leaf, and roundly toothed ; flower stems shorter, umbels more numerously flowered, bloom deeper in colour. D. M. giganteum has a very large leaf, much larger than the typical form of the species, and of a pale green colour, and in all other respects it is larger, being also more than a week earlier in flower. Flowering period, AprQ to June. Dondia Epipactis. Syns, AsTEANTiA Epipactis and Hacquetia Epipactis ; Nat. Ord. Umbellipee^. This is a little gem, perhaps rather overdone with too many big names; stiU, this choice, hardy, herbaceous perennial is worth knowing by all its titles. Never more than 6in. high, its singular flowers are very attractive ; they spring from the ground almost abruptly, are greenish-yellow and leafy in appearance — in fact, what at first sight might seem to be the petals are really but whorled bracts, which embrace the tiny umbels of flowers. Soon after the flowers the leaves begin to appear, unfolding like many of the anemones, each one springing from the root only; they also are of a peculiar colour and shape, being three-lobed and finely notched. It will stand any amount of rough weather, always having a fresh appearance when above ground. It forms a choice speci- men for pot culture in cold frames or amongst select rook plants ; it should be grown in mostly vegetable mould, as peat or leaf mould, and have a moist position. Not only is it a slow-growing subject, but it is impatient of being disturbed ; its propagation should therefore only be undertaken in the case of strong and healthy clumps, which are best divided before growth commences in February. Flowering period, April and May, ab HAEDT PERENNIALS AND Doronicum Caucasicum. Leopaed's-bane ; Syn. T>. Obientalb ; Nat. Ord. Composite. The specific name denotes sufiiciently whence this comes. It is hardy, herbaceous, and pei'ennial, and one of those plants which deserves to be in every garden ; its genei-al appearance is that of a tender plant, from the pale but fine delicate green of its foliage, a somewhat uncommon shade for so early a season. It begins to flower in March in a warm situation in the garden, when only a few inches high, and it goes on growing and flowering until summer.when it is nearly 2ft. high. A glance at Fig. 35 will give a fair idea of its habit. Si£s55t Pig. 35, Doronicum Caucasicum. (One-third natural size.) The flowers, which are bright yellow, are 2iin. across, produced one at a time, though the leafy stems are well supplied with buds in various stages of development. The leaves, besides being so rich in colour, ^re of handsopie forms, being variously shaped, OLD-FASHIONED GAEDEN FLOWEES. 87 Bome having long stalks, others none ; all are finely toothed and heai-t-shaped ; the radical ones come well out and form a good base, from which the flower stems rise, and they in their turn serve to display the richly veined and ample foliage which clasps them to near their tops. Although this species is not a very old plant in English gardens, it belongs to a genus, several species of which are very " old-fashioned, and, consequently, it shares the esteem in which such subjects are held at the present time. If left alone, after being planted in fairly good soil, it will soon grow to a bold specimen. Plants three years old are 2ft. across ; rockwork or ordinary borders are alike suitable for it, but if planted on the formesr, it should be of a bold character, so as to harmonise. I have obsei-ved that neither grubs nor slugs seem to meddle with this plant, which is certainly a rare recommenda- tion. Its propagation may be carried out at almost any time. Flowering period, March to July. Echinacea Purpurea. Syn. RpDBECKiA Ptjepueea; Ptjeple Conb-flowee; Nat. Ord. Composite. In the autumn season one is almost confined to Composites, but in this subject there is, at any rate, a change as regards colour. Yellows are indispensable, but then predominate too strongly. The flower under notice is a peculiar purple with greenish-white shadings. This will doubtless sound undesirable, but when the flower is seen it can hardly fail to be appreciated. It is much admired ; in fact it is stately, sombre, and richly beautiful — not only an " old-fashioned " flower, but an old inhabitant of English gardens, coming, as it did, from North America in the year 1699. In every way the plant is distinct ; it does not produce many flowers, but they individually last for several weeks, and their metallic appearance is a fitting symbol of their durability. They begin to expand in the early part of Sep- tember, and well-established plants will have bloom until cut ofl: by frost. The flowers are bome at the height of 2ft. to 3ft., and are produced singly on very thick, rigid stalks, long, nearly nude, grooved, furnished with numerous short, bristle-Hke hairs, and gradually thickening up to the involucnim of the flower. Said involucrum is composed of numerous small leaves, a distinguish- ing trait from its nearest relative genus RudbecTcia. The recep- tacle or main body of the flower is very bulky ; the ray is fully 4in. across, the florets being short for so large a ray ; they are set somewhat apart, slightly reflexed, plaited, and rolled at the edges, colour reddish-purple, paling ofE at the tips to a greyish- green; the disk is very large, rather flat, and furnished with spine-like scales, whence the name Echinacea, derived from 83 HAEDT PERENNIALS AND echinus (a Ledgehog). In smelling this flower contact should therefore be avoided ; it is rather forbidding ; the disk has changeable hues o£ red, chocolate, and green. The leaves of the root are oval, some nearly heart-shaped, unevenly toothed, having long channelled stalks ; those of the stems are lance- shaped, distinctly toothed, of stouter substance, short stalked, and, like those of the root, distinctly nerved, very rough on both sides, and during September quickly changes to a dark, dull, purple colour. The habit of the plant is rather " dumpy;" being spare of foliage, thick and straight in the stems, which are dram-stick like ; it is for all that a pleasing subject when in flower; I consider the blooms too stiff for cutting, more espe- cially as they face upwards. Unlike many species of its order, it is somewhat fickle. I have lost many plants of it ; it likes neither shade nor too much moisture ; latterly I have found it to do well in a sunny situation, in deep rich loam and vegetable soil mixed. If planted with other ray flowers it forms a fine contrast, and when once it has found suitable quarters the more seldom it is disturbed the better. It ihay be propagated by division, which may be more safely done after growth has fairly started in spring, or it may be done at the sacrifice of the flowers in late summer or early autumn, before growth or root action has ceased. Flowering period, September to end of October. Edraianthus Dalmaticus. Nat. Ord. Campantilace^. A EAEE and beautiful alpine species, from Dalmatia and Switzer- land. At the end of July it is one of the most distinct and charming flowers in the rock garden, where it not only finds a happy home, but, by its neat and peculiar habit, proves a decorative subject of much merit. This desirable plant (see Fig. 36) is quite hardy in this climate, being herbaceous and perennial; it has, however, the reputation of being difiicult to manage, but, like numerous other things, when once its requirements and enemies are found out, the former supplied and protection from the latter afforded, it proves of easy management. In some instances these conditions may, though stated in such few words, prove comprehensive ; but in this case it is not so. The position and soil it most seems to enjoy may be readily afforded in any garden, as we shall shortly see ; but, so far as my experience goes, the sings are its most persistent enemies. Especially when in flower do they make long journeys to reach it ; they go over sand and ashes with impunity, and often the beautiful tufts of bloom are all grazed off in one night. I had occasion to fetch in from the garden the specimen now Ijefore me, and, when brought into the gas-light, a large slug OLD- FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWERS. 89 was found in the midst of the grassy foliage, and a smaller one inside one of the bell flowers. The " catch and kill 'em " process is doubtless the surest remedy, and three hours after sunset seems to be the time of their strongest muster. Not only does this plant suffer from slugs when in flower, but perhaps equally as much when in its dormant state, especially if the winter is mild; then I have noticed the somewhat prominent crowns eaten entirely off, and it is not unlikely that this plant has come to have the name of a fickle grower, from being the favourite prey of slugs. Fig. 36. Edeaianthus Dalmaticus, (One-half natural size.) It is not more than 4in. high under any conditions in this climate, and more often only Sin. in height. From the thrift- like tufts of foliage there radiates a set of stout round flower stalks, which are Sin. to 4in. long, and rest on the ground ; the large heads of flowers are erect ; the stalks are red, and furnished with short stout hairs and shoi-t foliage, the latter becoming sere long before the bloom fades. The crowded heads, of " bells " are of pale purple colour, in the style of the bell-flower; they are an inch in length, the corolla being somewhat deeply divided; eight to twelve form the terminal cluster, and they have a fleshy calyx, with very long and persistent segments; the lower part can scarcely be seen for the ample and somewhat peculiar bract 90 HAEDT PERENNIALS AND which closely embraces the whole cluster ; said bract springs from the much thickened stalk and is composed of half leaf and half scale-like foi-ms, arranged in two or more circles ; the scales feather off with the leaf -like appendage, the latter being reflexed, but the whole is furnished with spines. The foliage of a well- grown specimen is arranged in tufts, the whole having a grass- like appearance. The leaves are 2in. to 4in. long, rough and hairy on the upper side, smooth and shining underneath, the edges having rather long hairs their whole length; the main root is long, thick, and somewhat woody. To grow this plant well, it requires a good deep loam for its long roots, and a surfacing of grit will be of benefit, as the crowns should be clear of the damp loam. This elevation of the crowns is natural to the plant, and should be provided for. The position cannot well be too exposed, provided the deep searching roots can find plenty of moisture. On rockwork this subject may be planted with considerable effect. If put between large stones iu upright positions, the plant will show its pretty form to advantage. The spoke-like flower stalks, radiating from the rich dark green tufts of foliage, are very pleasing. It may be propagated by offsets from strong and healthy plants. Care should be taken not only to have all the roots possible with each crown, but the y;oung stock should be carefuUy established in pots before planting in the open. Shade and careful watering will be needful ; too much of the latter will render rot inevitable. Soon as the flowering period is past is the best time to divide the roots, which should not be done too severely. Flowering period, July and August. Epigsea Repens. Cebeping or Ground Laurel ; Nat. Ord. Eeicace.®. A HARDY evergreen creeper, long since imported into this country from North America (1/36), but only within the last few years has it won much favour. At the present time it is much sought after. It has the reputation of being a ticklish subject to grow. Many have had it and lost it, and those who still retain a specimen are loth to mutilate it for increase. This may to some extent account for the present demand for and difiiculty ex- perienced in obtaining it. For the last three years, hard as the seasons have been within that time, its flowers have been pro- duced in great abundance on my specimen. Usually it flowers in this climate in April, but when winter has continued open and genial, its blooms are produced as early as the middle of March, and they are in their full beauty in early April. They are white, delicately tinged with pink, of much substance and wax-like appearance. They are small, not unlike in form the lilac flower, but rather more open at the corolla OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWERS. 91 and shorter in the tube. They are arranged in one- sided, elon- gated bunches, which rest on the ground, the blossoms peeping through the foliage. I must not omit to mention perhaps the most desirable property of this species — viz., the perfume of its flowers, which is strong, aromatic, and refreshing. The leaves are cordate, ovate, and entire, nearly 2in. long, slightly drawn or wrinkled, and covered with stiffish hairs. They are ari-anged on procumbent branches, all, like the flowers, facing upwards. To see the clusters of waxy flowers these branches must be raised, when it will be seen that the flower stalks issue from the axils of the leaves all along the branches. In a cut state the flowers are more than useful ; they are, from their delicious scent, a great treat. The plant is a suitable companion to the ledums, kalmias, gaultherias, and other genera of its own order. Its culture, in this climate at least, has, from all accounts, proved rather difficult, so that it may be said to require special treatment; such, at any rate, has been my experience of it. Suitable soil, aspect, sheltei-, moisture, and position, all seem necessaiy for the well-doing of this plant. It deserves them all, and, let me add, they may all be easily afforded. The list of requirements may seem formidable on paper, but to put them into practice is but a trifling affair. My specimen is grown in leaf mould, a little loam mixed in with it, and fine charcoal ihstead of sand, but sand will answer nearly as well ; the aspect is east, it is sheltered from the west by a wall, the north by rhododen- drons, and the south by a tall andromeda. Moreover, its position is one that is sunken between small mounds, where moisture collects, and is never wanting ; and when the specimen was first planted a large sandstone was placed over its roots to further secure them against drought; under these conditions it has thriven and flowered well, and afforded many offshoots. I attribute its well-doing mainly to the sheltered aspect and even state of moisture, but doubtless all the conditions have helped its growth. Its propagation is best carried out by eai-thing up about the collar, so as to induce the branches to become rooted, or they may be pegged near the extremities like carnation layers, but they will he two years, probably, before they can be safely lifted. Flowering period, middle of March to end of April. Eranthis Hyemalis. Syn. HELLEEOEtrs Hyemalis ; Winter Aconite ; Nat. Ord Ranxtnoulacb^. This, though well known and a general favourite, is not seen in the broad masses which ought to characterise its culture. It is nearly related to the Christmas roses, and, like them, 92 . HAEDT PERENNIALS AND flowers in winter, tlie bright golden blossoms suddenly appearing during sunshine close to the earth. A little later the involucrum becomes developed, and is no unimportant feature. It forms a dark green setting for the sessile flower, and is beautifully cut, like the Aconite. There are other and very interesting traits about this little flower that will engage the study of botanists. It enjoys a moist soil, somewhat light; also a little shade. In such quarters not only do the tubers increase quickly, but the seed germinates, and if such positions are allowed it, and garden tools kept off, there will soon be a dense carpet of golden flowers to brighten the wintry aspect of the open garden. Many things in the way of deciduous flowering shrubs may be grown with them, their bareness in winter and shade during summer favouring their enjoyment and growth. Early in the summer they die down. From that time the tubers may be lifted and transplanted. Such work should be finished in early autumn, or the roots will not have time to establish themselves for the first winter's bloom. Flowering period, December to February. Erica Carnea. Winter Heath; Nat. Ord. Eeicace^. A WELL-KNOWN, hardy, evergreen shrub, belonging to a genus comprising many hundreds of species and varieties, which, for the most part, however, are not hardy in this country, being natives of the Cape. The genus is most numerously and beauti- fully illustrated in Loddige's Botanical Cabinet. This might be thought to have no claim to consideration in this book, but I introduce it because of its great value in the spring garden, and because in all respects it may be cultivated like an ordinary border plant, which is saying a deal for one of the Heath family. Erica carnea comes to us from Germany, but it has so long been grown in this countiy that it would appear to have become naturalised in some parts. In the latter part of March it is to be seen in its full beauty ; the flowers are reddish-purple, abun- dantly produced on short leafy stems, and arranged in racemes, drooping; the foliage is of the well-known Heath type; the whole shrub has a procumbent habit, rarely growing more than a foot high ; its fine deep green foliage, compact habit, and bright enduring flowers are its chief recommendations ; the latter often last six weeks in good form and colour, so that little more needs to be said in its praise. It can hardly be planted in a wrong position — on rockwork, in borders, or shrubberies, fully exposed, or otherwise, it proves a cheerful object, whilst as an edging shrub it is second to none, excelling box by the additional chai-m of its flowers. Not long since I was struck by the way in which the common vinca had OLD-FASHIONED GABDEN FLOWERS. 93 interlaced itself with a few bushes of this Heath, both being in full bloom at the same time ; the effect was truly fine, the red of the Heath and pale blue flowers of the periwinkle being so numerous and set on such a fine bright green carpet, of two distinct types of foliage, that to my mind they suggested a most pleasing foi-m of spring bedding, and also one of semi- wildness, which, for quiet beauty, more laboured planting could certainly not excel. Most Ericas require peaty soil ; in the case of this, however, it is not necessary. Doubtless it would do well in peat, but I have ever found it to thrive in ordinary loam or garden soil, so that I have never planted it otherwise, except where peat has been the most handy. It is also easily propa- gated, carrying, as it does, plenty of root as well as earth with each rooted stem ; these only need to be carefully divided and transplanted in showery weather, just before the new growths commence being the best time. An annual top dressing of leaf mould is very beneficial. Flowei'ing period, Febi-uary to April, Erigeron Caucasicus. Cattcasian Pleabanb ; Nat. Ord. Composite. Hebbaceotis and perennial. This species is a somewhat recent introduction compared with some of the same genus which may be called old varieties, from having been introduced as early as 1633, as in the case of E. graveolens. Moreover, the genus is represented by such British species as X acris, E. alpinus, and E. uniflorus. The variety now under notice is, as its specific name implies, a native of the Caucasus, first brought into this country about sixty years ago. It is a pleasing subject when in flower, and is certainly woi-th growing. Its daisy-shaped flowers are less than an inch across, and when fully matured of a rosy purple colour ; but, perhaps, the most interesting and attractive features about this plant are the various forms and colours of its flowers at their different stages of development ; just before opening, the buds are lite minia- ture birds' nests formed of white horsehairs, all arranged in the same way, i.e., roimd the bud, but the points are turned into the centre — these are the unexpanded florets; the next stage of development may be seen in buds, say, two days older, when a few of the florets have sprung from the nest form, and have the appearance of mauve-coloured spiders' legs laid over the bud ; gradually they (being dense and numerous) expand in a similar manner, outgrowing their angularity, and at the same time deepening in colour, until at length we see the rosy-purple, daisy- shaped, and feathery flower with a yellowish centre. These pleasing flowers are borne in loose masses on stems nearly 2ft. high, and remain in bloom all the summer through. 91 HARDY PERENNIALS AND About the middle of August a lai-ge plant was divided, and the flowers were then cut away. The young stock so propagated were in flower in the following June. I may here appropriately name an experiment I tried on this species two years ago. It was sent to me as the dwarf Aster dumosus, which it much resembles in the leaves, these being spoon-shaped from the roots, the others tongue-shaped and stem-clasping, but rougher and lighter green. I also saw it was not woody enough in the stem for the Michaelmas daisy. It was then near flowering, and the winter was just upon us, so, in order to get the flowers out, I covered it with a bell glass, slightly tilted. It flowered, and continued to flower throughout the winter with such shelter, and doubtless many of our fine late-blooming perennials, by such simple contrivances, might have their flowers protected or produced at a much later date than otherwise. Flowering period, June to October. Erigeron Glaucum. Syn. CoNYZA Chilensis; Glaucotjs Flbabane, or Spikenard ; Nat. Ord. Composite. This very beautiful species is far from common. There are many facts in connection with it which render it of more than ordinary value and interest. It is sometimes classed as an alpine ; probably that is only an inference, or it may be so con- sidered by some, from its dwarf habit and suitable association with alpines. It is not an alpine ; it comes from South America, and though that climate differs so widely from ours, the plant grows and winters to perfection in this country. One of its main distinctions is its somewhat shrubby and evergreen character ; of the whole geniis, so far as it is at present comprehended, it is the only species with such traits ; its foliage, too, is of leathery substance, and compares oddly with the herb- like leaves of its relatives ; it is, moreover, as indicated by its specific name, of a glaucous hue; and othei-wise, as may be seen in the following description, there exist well marked dis- similarities. But, what is of moi-e importance, when viewed as a garden subject or an ornamental flower, it is one of the most useful as well as distiuotly beautiful, as much from the fact that it produces its flowers in two crops, which extend over six or seven months of the year, as from their numbers and showiness. The flowers are nearly 2in. across the ray, the florets being of a pleasing lilac-purple, and rather short, owing to the large size of the disk, which is often nearly an inch in diameter ; this part of the flower is more than usually effective, as the disk florets become well developed in succession, when they have the appear- ance of being dusted with gold ; the scales, which are set on the OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN PL0WEE3. 95 swollen stem, are of a substantial character; the numerous imbricate parts, which are covered with long downy hairs point- ing downwards, give the body of the flower a sora.ewhat bulky appearance. It will be observed that I have made no mention of the Conyza traits of divided ray florets and reflexed scales, simply because they do not exist in this species, and though there are other Conyza traits about the plant, notwithstanding its almost isolating distinctions from other Erigerons, it would seem to have more properly the latter name, and which is most often appUed to it. The flower stems, which produce the flowers singly, seldom exceed a height of 12in. ; they are stout, round, and covered with soft hairs, somewhat bent downwards. They spi'ing from the parts having new foliage, and for a portion — about half — of their length are furnished with small leaves, wb ch differ from those on the non-floriferous parts of the shrub, inasmuch as they have no stalks. The leaves are pro- duced in compact tufts on the extremities of the old or woody parts of the shrub, which become procumbent in aged specimens ; the leaves vary in length from 2in. to 4in. long, and are roundly spoon-shaped, also slightly and distantly toothed, but only on the upper half ; they are stout, ribbed, clammy, and glaucous. The habit of the shrub is much branching, dense, and prostrate ; its foliage has a pleasant, mentha-like odour, and the flowers have a honey smell. This subject may occupy such positions as rockwork, borders of the shrubbery, or beds of " old-fashioned" flowers. Its flowers, being, as taste goes at the present time, of a desirable form, will prove very serviceable as cut bloom. A good loam suits it to perfection, and no flower will better repay a good mulching of rotten manure. Its propagation, though easy, is somewhat special, inasmuch as its woody parts are stick-like and bare of roots, until followed down to a considerable depth, therefore the better plan is either to take advantage of its prostrate habit by pegging and embedding its branches, or, as I have mostly done, take cuttings with a part of the previous season's wood to them, put them well down in deeply-dug light soil, and make them firm. If this plan is followed, it should be done during the summer, so that the cuttings will have time to root before winter sets in. The layering may be done any time, but if in spring or summer, rooted plants will be ready for the following season. This subject begins to flower in June, and, as already hinted, it produces two crops of flowers ; the first are from the parts which have been green and leafy through the winter, the second from the more numerous growths of the new season, and which are grandly in bloom in August ; not only are the latter more effective as regards numbers and colour, but the fuller habit or more luxuriant condition of the shrub render the specimens more effective in late summer. 96 HAEDY PERENNIALS AND Eryngium Giganteum. Great Eryngo; Nat. Ord. Umbbllifbe^. This hardy species was brought from the Caucasus in 1820. The genus, though not commonly patronised as garden subjects, are, nevertheless, highly ornamental, and when well grown much admii-ed. Specimens are of various heights, according to position and nature of the soil ; under ordinary conditions they will be 2ft. to 3ft. hip;h at the blooming period. As will be inferred from the order to which the Eryngium Fig. 37. Ebingidm GiOANiEnm. (One-tenth natural size.) belongs, the flowers are aggregate, of a changeable blue, and arranged in cone-shaped heads IJin. long; the heads are neatly embraced by an ample bract of prickly leaves ; the main flower stem is well and evenly branched (see Fig. 37), each node being furnished with leaves which clasp the stems ; they are, like those of the flower bract, deeply cut and prickly ; the radical leaves are very different, long stalked, large heart-shaped and toothed, of OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWERS. 97 good substance and a glossy green colour. The whole plant has a rather stiff appearance, the flower stems, together with the stem leaves, are of a pleasing hue, nearly the colour of blue note paper; this is characteristic of several of the genus, and adds greatly to their effect. Specimens look well with a grassy fore- ground or in borders. Their culture is easy, provided the soil is of a light nature ; a sxmny position is needful, in order to have the tops well coloured. Propagate by division of strong and healthy clumps when dormant. Wireworm and grub are fond of the roots ; when the plants appear sickly, these pests should be looked for. Flowering period, August and September. Erysimum Pumilum. Faiet Wallflower, or Dwarf Trbacle-mtjstaed ; Nat. Orel. Oeitcifbr^. One of the alpine gems of our rock gardens, not in the sense of its rarity, because it grows and increases fast. It came from Switzerland about sisty years ago, and for a long time was esteemed as a biennial, but it is more — it is perennial and ever- green ; at any rate its new branches take root, and so its peren- nial quality is established. Let the reader imagine a shrub, Sin. high, much branched, and densely furnished with pale green foliage, which hides all its woody parts, forming itself into cushions, more or less dotted over with minute canary-yellow flowers, and he will then only have a poor idea of the beauty of this pretty alpine. It flowers in summer, autumn, and winter, and in certain positions both its habit and flowers show to most advantage at the latter season. At no other time during the year have my specimens looked so fresh and beautiful as in January. This I have proved repeatedly to be the result of posi- tion, shortly to be explained. The flowers are produced in terminal racemes, are scarcely iin. across, cruciform in the way of the Wallflower, greenish-yellow, and delicately scented. The leaves vary in shape on the various parts of the branches, some being lance-shaped and others nearly spoon-shaped ; the lower ones being all but entire, and the upper ones, which are aiTanged in rosettes, distinctly toothed. They seldom exceed an inch in length, more often they are only half that size, but much depends on the position and soil. In summer the foliage is greyish-green ; later it is almost a bright or clear green, the latter being its present colour. The habit is branching and compact, by which it adapts itseK to crevices and uneven paits in a pleasing manner; and not only does it best adorn such places, but from the fact of their dryness, they are better suited to the requirements of this little shrub. A sandy loam, such as wiU not bake, suits, and if mixed with a 98 HABDT PERENNIALS AND few stones all the better — this will be found ample food for it ; poor soil and a dry situation grow this subject in its finest form. I may perhaps usefully give the method by which my specimen is giown, after experimenting with it in various parts of the garden, and also the substance of a few notes I made of it. In pots the fine roots soon formed a matted coat next the sides, when the foliage would turn sickly and yellow, so that, useful as the practice is of growing alpines in pots, it does not answer in this case. On rockwork, in vegetable soil, this low shrub grew taller, being less woody, and was killed by severe weather. On the flat, in borders, in rich soil, it did well for a season, then damped ofE, a branch or two together. On the flat, in sand alone, it does well, also on the top of a wall, such being a position especially provided for hardy sempervivums and a few cacti. A bit of the Fairy Wallflower was tried there in a thin layer of sandy loam, and for two years my finest specimen has occupied that position, flowering more or less throughout the winter. "Where there are old walls or rockwork it should be introduced. A ready and effective way of planting it is to get a sod of grass Sin. thick ; measure with the eye the size of the interstice in the side of a wall, partly cut through the sod on the earthy side, open it by bending, and insert the roots of a small specimen ; close up, and cram the planted sod tightly into the selected opening. In one season the shrub so planted will have a snug and pretty appearance. It is self -propagating, from the fact of its lower branches rooting where they touch the soil. These may be taken any time and planted separately. Flowering period, April to winter. Erythronium Dens-canis. Dog's-tooth Violet; Nat. Ord. LiLiACE.Si. A HARDY bulbous perennial. There are several varieties of this species, and all are very handsome. The variety shown at Fig. 38 is the large white-flowering kind ; others have yellow, pale pm-ple, and lilac-coloured blooms. All are produced singly on stems 4in. or 5in. long, and gracefully bending. Dm-ing bright weather the divisions of the lily-like flowers become reflexed and otherwise show themselves to advan- tage. Their foliage forms a rich setting for the flowers, being variously coloured with red, biown, and different shades of green, all charmingly blended or marbled. The leaves are broad and oval, and open out flatly, so that their beauties can be well seen; if they are grown amongst the very dwarf sedums or mosses, they look all the better and are preserved from splashes. Two leaves, one stem, one flower, and one bulb constitute a whole plant; both flowers and foliage remain in beauty for a long time. OLD-FASHIONED OAEDEN FIOWEES. 99 I have them growing in various positions and soils, and I think they most enjoy a vegetable mould, with full exposure to the Bun, but they should not lack moisture ; they seem to increase Fia. 38. Ebtihronium Dens-castis. (Large white variety. One-half uattiral size.) more rapidly in peat than in any other compost. They should not be disturbed more than necessary, and when they are, autumn is the best time to transplant. Flowering period, March and ApriL Euonymus Japonicus Radicans Variegatau Vaeiegatbd Eooting Spindle Teeb ; Nai. Ord. OELASTRACE.ffi!. It is probable that the genus Euonymus is more generally known than that of Celastrus, from which the order takes its name ; h2 100 HARDY PEEENNIAIiS AND besides, the lattei' is composed of unfamiliar genera, so it is more likely that the reader will not care about any reference to them ; it may concern him more to know that the above somewhat long name belongs to a very dwarf hardy evergreen shrub, having a neat habit and very beautiful foliage. This variety is one of many forms which come under the name U. japonicus, none of wnioh, however, have long been cultivated in this country, the date of the introduction of the type being 1804. The genus is remarkable for the number of its species having ornamental foliage, and not less so, perhaps, for the insignificance of their flowers. The species under notice (E. japonicus) in cultivation has proved sportive, which habit has been taken advantage of, whence the numerous forms, including the one I have selected for these remarks. Some of the Spindle Trees do not flower in this climate, and others, which do, produce no seed ; these facts are in connection with the more finely leaf -marked sorts, and it may be inferred that such unfmitfulness arises from their hybrid nature or abnormal tendency, as seen in " sports." The typical form is a tree growing 20ft. high, producing small white flowers, but of the variegated kind Tinder notice established specimens have ever failed to show the least sign of flowering, though othei-wise well developed and of good habit. The leaves are nearly oval, Jin. to l^in. long, sometimes oblong, sharply serrulated, of stout leathery substance, smooth, and much variegated in colour. The markings are mostly on and near the edges, and take the form of lines and marblings. The tints are a mixture of white, yellow, and pink, inclining to purple; these are variously disposed on a dark green ground. The arrangement of the leaves is crowded and panicled on the recent shoots, which are twice and thrice branched ; from the shortness and twisted shape of the leaf stalks, the branchlets have a compressed appearance. The old stems are round, wiry, 9in. to 18in. long, prostrate, and emit roots like the ivy when they come in contact with suitable surfaces, whence the name " radiccms." The habit of the shrub, from its dense and flat- tened foliage, fine colour, and persistent nature, together with its dwarfness and rooting faculty, all go to render it one of the finest rock shrubs for winter effect. The wetness of our climate only seems to make it all the brighter, and it is also without that undesirable habit of rooting and spreading immoderately. It enjoys a sunny situation and enriched sandy loam. Where such conditions exist it may be planted with good effect as a permanent edging to walks or beds ; as such it may be clipped once or twice a year, but I may add that it is worth the extra time required for pruning with a knife, as then the leaves are not cut in two and the outline is left less formal. By such treat- ment the foliage is kept thick to the base of the shrub. The summer prunings may be pricked into sandy loam in a shady OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWERS. lOl ;h.ey .. . g. o: the desired size. part, where they will root and hecome useful stock for the fol- lowing spring, or strong examples may be pulled to pieces of Festuca Glauca. Bltje Grass ; Nat. Ord. GRAMiNEiE. This comes from the warm climate of Southern Europe, but is a perfectly hardy grass in this country ; it is highly ornamental, irrespective of its flowers, and is useful in several ways. With me it is grown somewhat largely, and both professional and amateur gardeners have quickly appreciated its effectiveness, but it has been amusing to see their want of faith when told that " it stands out all winter." It belongs to a section of grasses of fine quality as fodder for cattle, all enjoying good soil of a light and rich nature. Its main features as a garden subject are its dis- tinct blue colour and dense graceful habit ; these qualities, how- ever, are greatly dependent on the quality of soil, which must be positively rich. Its bloom is of no value ornamentally, being much like that of some of our common meadow grasses, and it will be as well to remove it in order that the grass may be all the brighter and more luxuriant. The blades, if they can be sd called, are reed-like, but very fine, 6in. to 12in. long, densely produced, and gracefully bending. The glaucous quality is most pronounced, and quite justifies the common name Blue Grass More need not be said to show that this must be effective m a garden, especially where bedding and the formation of bold lines are carried out ; as single tufts, on rockwork, or in the borders, it looks well ; whilst as an edging to taller grasses and bamboos it shows all to advantage. It is also often grown in pots in greenhouses, where it proves useful for drooping over the edges of the stage ; but if it once obtains a place in the garden and is well grown, the amateur will see in it a suitable subject for many and varied uses. Wherever it is planted the soil should be made sandy and fat with manure ; in this the long roots are not only warmer, but they amply support a rapid gi-owth and metallic lustre. As the roots can easily be lifted from the light soil without damage, this grass may be divided any time when increase is needful. Flowering period, summer. Fritillaria Armena. Nat. Ord. LiLiACE^!. A CHARMING little hardy bulbous perennial, which, although as yet a comparative stranger in this country, bids fair to find a place not only in our gardens, but in the list of the choicest spring favourites, such as lily of the valley, snowdrops, snowflake, 102 HARDY PERENNIALS AND and squills, being of the same or nearly allied order, as well as of corresponding stature. Its yellow flowers, too, higMy com- mend it, as, with the exception of the yellow crocus, we have not a very dwarf spring flower of the kind, and, as may be seen by the illustration (Fig. 39), it difiers widely from the crocus in every way. This is a really charming species; its dark yellow flowers are large for so small a plant, being more than an inch across when expanded by sunshine, but its more common form is bell-shape ; one, and some- times more flowers are produced on the upright, smooth, leafy stem, which, is less than 6iti. high. The leaves are alternate linear, sharply pointed, smooth, and glaucous. Such dwarf flowers always show to most advantage, as well as keep cleaner, where carpeted with suit- able vegetation; the dark green Herniaria glabra would be perfec- tion for this glaucous plant. It seems happy where growing fully exposed in ordinary garden soil, but it is not unlikely that it may require more shade, in common with other Fritillaries, for, as before hinted, it is yet in its trial stage. I am, towever, pretty certain of its hai-dinesB, but not about the best mode of cultiire and propagation. Flowering period, April and May. Fio. 39. Teitillaeia Aemeka. (One-half uatural size.) Funkia Albo-marginata, Common Name, White-edged Planting-leaved Lilt; Nat. Ord. LiLiACE.a). A HARDY herbaceous perennial from Japan, of but recent intro- duction, than which there are few more useful subjects to be found ia our gardens. It combines with its wealth of foHage a bold spike of pleasing lilao flowers, the former, as implied by the specific name, being edged with a white line, which is broad and constant, this quality being all the more commendable from the fact that many variegations are anjrthing but reliable. Speaking of this as a decorative plant for the garden, it may be said to be one of the best; however placed, it has a neatness and beauty which are characteristic, especially when used in lines, and has become well established ; from early spring, when the fresh young leaves appear, until the autumn is well advanced, this plant upholds a fine appearance independent of its flowers ; they are, OLD-FASH lOTJ ED GARDEN FLOWERS. 103 however, not wanting in beauty, produced as they are on stems nearly 2ft. high, and nude with the exception of one or two very small leaves. The floral part of the stem will be Sin. or more in length; the flowers are numerous, 2in. long, tmmpet-shaped, drooping, and so an-anged that all fall in one direction; the colour is lilac, with stripes of purple and white ; each flower is supported by a bract, which, like the foliage, is margined with white. The leaves are 6in. to Sin. long, oval-lanceolate, waved and ribbed, of a dark green colour, margined with white; the leaf stalks are stout, 6in. long, and broadly channelled. Flowering period, June to August. Funkia Sieboldii. Siebold's Planting-leaved Lilt; Nat. Orti. Liliace^!. This is a grand plant ; the lily-like flowers alone are sufiicient to commend it, but when we have them springing from such a glorious mass of luxuriant and beautiful foliage, disposed with a charming neatness rarely equalled, they are additionally effective. The illustration (Fig. 40) gives a fair idea of the form and dimensions of a specimen three years ago cut from the parent plant, when it would not have more than two or three crowns, so it may be described as very vigorous ; and, as if its beauties were not sufficiently amplifled by flowers and form of foliage, the whole plant is of a rich glaucoi^s hue, rendering it still more conspicuous and distinct. It is herbaceous and perfectly hardy, though it comes from the much warmer climate of Japan, whence are aU the species of Funkia. It is a compai-atively new plant in English gardens, having been introduced into this country only about fifty years ; still, it is pretty widely distributed, thanks, doubtless, to its exceptionally fine qualities. I know no plant more capable of improvement as regards size than this; if set in rich deep soil, it will in a few years grow to an enonnous speci- men. One so treated in my garden is 4ft. to 6ft. in diameter, and about the same height when the flower-stems are fully developed. I should, however, add that this is an unusual size, but it, neverthelesss, indicates what may be done by high culture. The flowers are produced on nude stems, 2ft. or 4ft. high, being arranged in somewhat short and irregular one-sided spikes; they spring singly from the axils of rather long bracts (see Fig. 40) and have long bending pedicels, whicn cause the flowers to hang bell fashion ; their colour is a soft pale lilac, nearly white. Size, lin. to 2in. long, and bell or trumpet shaped. They are of good substance, and last a long time in fine form. The leaves have radical stalks, nearly 2ft. long in well-grown specimens, gracefully bending and deeply channelled ; they are from Sin. to 12in. long, and about half as wide, long heart-shaped, somewhat 104 HAEDT PEEENNIALS AND hooded, waved, distinctly ribbed, and evenly wriakled ; glaucous and leathery. The outer foliage is so disposed that the tips touch the ground ; it is abundantly produced, forming massive tufta. Fis. 40. Fttnku Sieboldii, (One-ei|?htli natural Bize.) The long fleshy roots denote its love of a deep soil ; a moist but well-drained situation suits it, and manure may be used — ^both OLD-FASHIONED GAEDEN FLOWEES. 105 dug in and as a top dressing — witli marked advantage. The natural beauty o£ this subject fits it for any position— the lawn, shrubbery, borders, beds, or rookwork can all be additionally beautified by its noble form ; grown in pots, it becomes an effec- tive plant for the table or conservatory. The flowers in a cut state are quaint and graceful, and the leaves are even more useful; these may be cut with long stalks and stood in vases in twos and threes without any other dressing, or, when desired, a few large flowers may be added for a change, such as a panicle of Spiraea aruncus, a large sunflower, or a spike or two of gladioli. Leaves so cut may be used for weeks; after they have become dusty they may be sponged, when they wUl appear fresh, like new-cut ones. In the propagation of this plant certain rules should be ob- served, otherwise the stock of young plants will prove stunted and bad in colour. Do not divide any but strong and healthy clumps, taking care not to damage more roots than can be helped ; do not divide too severely, but let each part be a strong piece of several crowns, and after this they should be allowed to make three years' growth in a good, rich, deep soil before they are again disturbed, and thereby the stock will not only be of a vigorous character, but always fit for use in the most decorative parts of the garden. Flowering period, July to September. Galanthus Elwesii. Elwes's Galanthus or Snowdrop ; Nat. Ord. Amaeyllidace^. This is a splendid species or variety, whichever it may be, said to be the finest of all the Snowdrops ; it is a new kind and not yet much known. My impressions of it last spring were not in accordance with such reports, but I ought to add that, though the bulbs were fresh when sent me, they had only been planted less than a year, when they flowered somewhat feebly. Flowering period, February and March. All the Snowdrops may be propagated by seed or division of crowded clumps — after all the tops have died off is the proper time ; the longer the delay, the worse for next season's bloom, as new root action sets in about that period. Galanthus Imperati. Impeeial Snowdeop ; Nat. Ord. Amaetllidace^. I HATE only recently flowered this kind. It is said by Mr. W. Robinson to be double the size of G. nivalis,' which estimate is probably correct, judging from, the blooms which I have ob- tained. With me the bulbs seem either not to have a. happy 106 HARDY PERENNIALS AND home, or they may have suffered from the vicissitudes of trans- port from the genial climate of Italy. The publisher of this book informs me that he flowered G. imperati the first year in the open borders, from some bulbs procured from Messrs. Collins Bros., and that the blossoms were highly scented, as of elder flowers. Flowering period, February and March. Galsinthus Nivalis. Common Snowdkop, Eaelt Bulbotjs Violet, and Fair Maids of Febetjaet; Nat. Ord. Amabyllidace^. One of the most charming members of the British flora; a native of our fields and orchards, so beautiful as to be beyond description, and, fortunately, so common as to need none (see Fig. 41). It belongs to a noble order of bulbous plants, the Fib. 41. Galahthhs Nivaiis. (One-half natural size.) genera of which are numerous, as are the species too, in perhaps an increased proportion. Comparatively few are hardy in our climate, and very few indeed are natives of this country, so that in this respect the Snowdrop, if not a rare flower, is a rare repre- sentative in our flora of the order Amaryllidaceoe. OLD-FASHIONED GAEDEW FLOWERS. 107 It may be useful to give a few of tte better-known genera to whicli Galanthus is so nearly related : Amaryllis, Nerine, Crinum, Vallota, Pancratium, Alstrcemeria, and Narcissus. The last-named genus is more nearly allied than any of the other genera mentioned ; not only does it resemble the Galanthus in\ style, early period of bloom, and habit of becoming double, but also for the general hardiness of its species, a feature not usual in their order. The literal meaning of the generic name is " Milk Flower.'' The title with such a pleasing reference was given by Linnaeus. The specific name — meaning white — may, for two reasons, seem unnecessary ; first, because milk is white, and again, because no other than white-flowered species are known. All the three common names are happy ones : " Snowdrop" and " Pair Maids of February " are appropriate both to the season and a pretty flower; "Bulbous Violet" pleasantly alludes to its sweetness; all are poetical, as if this lovely flower had the same effect on the different minds of those (including Linnaeus) who first gave them. A dropped name for the Snowdrop was that of "Gillo- flower " ; Theophrastus, the father of natural history, gave it the name of "Violet" {Viola alba or V. bulbosa) — that would be 2100 years ago! The bulbs should be planted by thousands; they will grow anywhere and in any kind of soil ; the demand for their blossom is evei^ increasing, and Snowdrops, as everybody knows, are always in place, on the grass, border, or window sill, or for table; they may be used as emblems of either grief or joy ; they are sweetly pure and attractive, without showiness. Flowering period, February to April. Galanthus Plicatus. Folded Galanthus ; Not. Ord. Amabtllidace.«!. A SPECIES from the Crimea; compared with our native kind, it is larger in the grass, having also other, but very slight, points of difference. The main one is implied by its name, " plicatus," or folded ; its leaves are furrowed, which causes it to have a folded appearance. Culture and flowering period, the same as for the other species. Galanthus Redoutei. Eedoute's Galanthus ; Nat. Ord. AmcAEYLLiDACEiE. This is by far the most distinct foi-m, having broad grass-green foliage. It is somewhat late in flowering (during March and April), and not bo free as others. 108 HARDY PERENNIALS AND Galax Aphylla. Syn. Blandfordia Coedata; Heart-leaved Galax; Nat. Ord. Ptrolace^e. Nearly 100 years ago this charming little plant was imported from North America; still, it is rarely seen, notwithstanding that rock-gardens have long been popular. On rockwork it not only thrives well, but appears to great advantage. No rock- garden should be without it. It is a rare and beautiful subject, remarkably distinct and pleasing; it is perfectly hardy, also Pig. 42. Galax Abhtila. (One-sixth natural eizej 1, natural size.) perennial and herbaceous ; but its last-named characteristic should be qualified, inasmuch as the old leaves remain in good form and colour until long after the new ones are fully grown, so that there are always two sets of foliage. Viewed in this light, it may be called an evergreen plant ; moreover, it is one of those plants which the artist can scarcely do justice to, for though the illustration (Fig. 42) depicts faithfully its neat habit OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN TLOWEES. 109 and tandsome foliage, the living plant makes a better impres- sion. I said it was rare, but this is less in tbe sense of scarcity than because it is little known and seldom seen ; it is also quite distinct from any otter plant, and the only species of the genus. Its milk-white flowers, which, though very simple, are richly effective, are produced on tall, nude stems, 18in. high, round, wiry, and nearly amber-coloured. They are arranged in a dense spike, 6in. to Sin. long. ; the corolla is Jin. across, and composed of five petals ; the calyx has a short tube and five sepals ; the leaves are heart-shaped, nearly round, evenly toothed, and some- times glandular; of leathery substance, and somewhat stiff, smooth, shining, and richly veined or nerved. The leaves of various ages difEer in colour ; the old ones are dark green, con- spicuously reticulated ; the new, but perfectly-developed ones, are pale green, with a ray of yellowish-green next the edges ; the growing ones are nearly red, and aU the sen-ated edges are hemmed with a nearly scarlet line, always brightest at the points of the teeth. This finely-tinted foliage is elegantly disposed by means of the stalks, which bend in various ways ; they vary in length from 4in. to 8in., and are all radical ; they are round, wiry, and once grooved. The bloom lasts for several weeks in good form, and the foliage is always beautiful, more especially in the autumn, when it glows like polished mahogany. Such a plant can hardly fail to please when well grown, but it must be BO developed. This lovely plant certainly requires a little special treatment, but that is easy and simple; in fact, it scarcely can be called special. It may be put in a few words — damp, but not sour vegetable soil, and very slight shade. My specimen, from which the drawing was taken, is growing in a little dip at the base of a small rookery, below the level of the walk, which acts as a watershed ; the soil is nearly all leaf mould — a small portion of loam, and I ought to add that there is a moderate quantity of small charcoal incorporated with it, which will doubtless assist -in keeping the soil sweet. There cannot, therefore, be much difficulty in setting up these conditions ; the charcoal may not be necessary, but an annual top-dressing with it will meet the case of such plants as grow in low damp situations. The propa- gation of this species is very easy in the case of well-grown clumps, which, when dug up in the autumn and thoroughly shaken, will come asunder into many small and well-rooted crowns; these only require to be replanted separately, under similar conditions to those by which they were produced. No attempt should be made to divide other than perfectly healthy clumps. Flowering period, July and August. 110 HAEDT PERENNIALS AND Galega Officinalis. OrnoiNAT. Goat's-etib; Nat. Ord. Leguminos^. A GRAND "old-fashioned" flower. It is 314 years since this plant was brought from Spain ; it is perfectly hardy and herbaceous. Both it and its varieties are among the most useful subjects of the flower gai'den ; they grow to shrub-like bushes, have elegant foliage, and an abundance of bloom, which continues until late autumn. Specimens have a clean and healthy appearance, and though they grow to the height of 4ft., they give no trouble, requiring neither tying nor supports. From their large quantities of flowers they are exceedingly gay ; but it is for the handsome stems in a cut state that they should be most prized. These, cut ISin. long, and placed singly in pots or vases, are truly noble, more especially by gaslight. As win be inferred from the order to which Galega belongs, the flowers are pea-flower-shaped, about ^in. or more long, and the same broad. They are of a pleasing, but tmdecided blue colour, arranged in long conical racemes, on stout, round stalks, as long as the leaves, which are pinnate, having a terminal odd one. The leaflets are evenly arranged in pairs, mostly in six pairs ; they are each about 2in. long, lance-shaped, mucronate, entire, smooth, and glaucous. The floriferous character of the plant may be inferred from the fact that, after the raceme fades, there pushes from the axil a peduncle, which, in a short time, produces many other recemes. G. o. alba, a variety of the above, grows 4ft. high, and is an abundant bloomer; flowers superb for cutting purposes. For culture, see G. Persica lilacina. Flowering period, July to September. Galega Persica Lilacina. Nat. Ord. Legtjminos^. This is a lovely species of Galega imported little more than fifty years ago from Persia. Perfectly hardy; in general form it corresponds with G. officinalis. The following are its distmc- tions : More dense racemes of lilac flowers, a foot less tall, leaflets shorter and broader — in fact, oval, oblong, somewhat twisted or edged up in the arrangement, and often without the terminal leaflet. The above Goat's-raes are of the simplest culture ; they will do in any soil, but if they are liberally treated they will repay it. A fat loam and sunny situation are what they delight in. They may remain year after year in one position, but I find them to do better in eveiy way if they are divided the second year ; it should be done in summer, so that they can make a little growth in their new quarters before winter sets in. In order to carry out OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWERS. Ill this, the older plants (I divide half my stock one year, the other half the year following) should be cut over near the ground, though they may be in full bloom. Divide the roots into several strong pieces, and replant them in soil deeply dug and where they are intended to flower ; they will bloom finely the following season. Flowering period, July to September. Gentiana Acaulis. Gentianella ; Nat Ord. Gentianaoe^. A HARDY, evergreen creeper, its creeping stems running imme- diately under the surface. This is a remarkably beautiful plant, and the wonder is that it is not grown in every garden. The most attractive features, when in flower, of this dwarf Gentian are its immensely large blooms and neat shining green foliage (see Fig. 43). It is easily identified, there being not another Fig. 43. Gentiana Acadlis. (One-fourth natural size.) species like it, and certainly very few to equal it for beauty and service ; it forms one of the best edgings for beds and borders. Many report that it is difficult to grow, which may be the case in some gardens from one cause or other, whilst in many places it runs like quick-grass. , „ , ^ i_ . i. Flowers, dark bright blue, large, long bell-shaped, but not drooping; tube, five-angular, nearly Sin. long ; corolla, five-limbed and an inch or more wide ; the stems are seldom more than 3in. long, square, furnished with small opposite leaves, and termi- nated with one flower on each. That part of the foliage which sends up the flower is an-anged in rosette form, the leaves bemg stout, flat, and acutely lance-shaped. Anywhere or everywhere may this subject be planted; it is always bright, even in winter. 112 HARDY PERENNIALS AND and wlien there are no flowers npon it it forms a rich, covering for the otherwise bare ground ; its blooms will each keep good a week. They are rarely produced in great numbers at one time, but the plants will continue for a long while to yield them sparingly. I find G. acaulis to thrive well at the base of rockwork, as an edging to a flat bed, and in the gutters of the garden walks — it likes moisture. To me this is clearly proved by other plants, which, in all respects but one, ai-e treated the same, the excep- tional condition being that they are planted on the sloping face of rockwork, where they scarcely grow and never bloom. With reference to soil, rich or silky loam is best for it, but any kind, if sweet and retentive, will do. Its propagation may be effected by division of the rooted creeping stems after they have made four leaves. Very early in spring is a good time to do this, but neither these nor the old plant, if it has been much disturbed, will flower the same season after being so mutilated. Flowering period, May to July. Centiana Asclepiadea. SwALtOW-WORT-LEAVED GeNTIAN ; Nat Ord. GENTIANACE^!. A TALL and beautiful alpine species from Austria, very hardy and herbaceous. It has long had a place in English gardens — fully 250 years — and is described by Parkinson in his " Paradise of Flowers." The tall stems are very showy, having an abund- ance of shining dark green foliage, amongst which nestle the large and bright purple-blue flowers ; it is a subject that looks well at a distance, and, as a rule, flowers with that quality are of the greatest value for borders and cutting purposes. It grows nearly 2ft. high ; the stems are round, erect, short- jointed, and very leafy ; the flowers are produced on a third of their length, they are stalkless, and spring from the axUs of the leaves in pairs; the calyx is ^in. long, tubular, angled, and having fang-shaped segments ; the corolla is also tubular and angled, somewhat bellied, the divisions being deeply cut and reflexed ; the whole flower will be fully IJin. long. The inside of the corolla is striped with white and various shades of blue and purple. The leaves are 2in. long, oval, lance-shaped, distinctly ribbed, somewhat lobed at the base, and stem-clasping, which gives the pair of leaves a joined or perfoliate appearance ; the nodes are short, or near together, the lower ones being the more distant, where also the leaves are much smaller ; the foliage is a glossy dark green colour, the whole plant having a sombre but rich effect. From the fact that the long stems are top-heavy and of a brittle character, a sheltered position should be given to this plant, or the wind wiU snap them off. It ought not to have OLD-FASHIOUEt) GARDEN PLOWEES. 113 stakes, as they would mar its good form. A fat loam and a moist situation will suit this Gentian to perfection, and it may be planted with other strong herbaceous things in the borders, where it should be allowed to grow to large specimens. It is one of the quickest growers of its genus, few species of which can be grown in too large quantities. When it is needful to increase this subject, it may be done more readily than the propagation of some Gentians — the roots are more easily separated. It should, however, be carefully done, and early spring is the best time ; or if the autumn should be a dry season and the tops die off early, it may be done then. Flowering period, July and August. Centiana Burseri. Btjesbe's Gentian; Nat. Ord. GENTiANACEiB. A HAEDT perennial species, of a bold but neat habit, while the flowers and foliage combine in rendering it a first-class decora- tive subject. It is a recent introduction, having been brought from the Pyrenees in 1820 ; it is seldom seen in flower gardens, where it cei-tainly deserves to be. Its flowers are not brilliant, but they are effective from their size, number, and persistency ; they are produced in whorls on stout round stems 18in. high, but only on the three or four upper joints. Each flower is 14in. long, lemon-yellow, tubular, angu- lar, having four to six segments, widely separated, and furnished with a membrane at each separation. The segments, and also the tube, are dotted with dark brown spots; each flower is tightly folded in a somewhat one-sided membranous calyx and borne erect. They occur in pairs mostly, but with several pairs in a whorl. They have very short pedicels, and the whorl is sup- ported by a bract of stem-clasping leaves, cupped, and variously shaped, as ovate and beaked ; there are also supplementary bracteoles. The leaves of the root very much resemble the plantain leaf, also that of G. lutea, having longish ribbed and grooved petioles or stalks ; they are 5in. to 6in. long, and over Sin. broad, egg shaped, entire, veined longitudinally, and slightly wrinkled ; they are of a dark green colour, shining, and of good substance. The leaves of the stems, as already stated, are stem- clasping, and differ in shape. The flowers keep in good form for two or three weeks, and otherwise this rigid bright-foliaged Gentian proves very ornamental. I find it to do well in vegetable soil in a moist quarter. Most of the members of this genus enjoy plenty of moisture at their roots, and this specimen is no exception. A flat stone will form a good substitute for a damp situation if placed over the roots ; besides, such a method of growing this and others of the tall Gentians will allow of their being planted on Z 114 HAEDY PEEENNIAL3 AND rockwork, or otherwise, near the more frequented walks, where they must always prove pleasing from their bold and shining foliage, to say nothing of their striking flowers. The propaga- tion of this species should be effected by division of the roots, which are very strong. Each crown should have as much of the more fibrous roots retained as possible, and the parts to be severed should be cut with a very sharp knife; it also ripens seed plentifully. Flowering period, June to August. Gentiana Cruciata. Ceoss-leaved Gentian ; Nat. Ord. GrENTiANACEa;. An interesting species from Austria, and one of the " old- fashioned " plants of English gardens, having been cultivated in this country for nearly 300 years. Gerarde gives a faithful and full description of it, which I wiU quote : " Crossewoort Gentian hath many ribbed leaues spred upon the ground, like unto the leaues of sopewroot, but of a blacker green colour ; among which rise vp weak iointed stalks, trailing or leaning towarde the grounde. The flowers growe at the top in bundels, thicke thmst togither, like those of sweete Williams, of a light blew colour. The roote is thicke, and creepeth in the grounde farre abroade, whereby it greatly increaseth." Its height seldom exceeds lOin., and it is to be commended because it is one of the Gentians that are easily grown, and is handsome withal. It may be planted in either vegetable or loamy soil — ^the common border seems to suit it ; it spreads much faster than any of the other Gentians I know, with the exception of G. acaulis, and it is in broad masses one sees it to greatest advantage. Propagated by division any time. Flowering period, June and July. Gentiana Gelida. Ice-cold-loving Gentian; Nat. Ord. Gentianace.*!. This species comes from Siberia, and has been grown in this country for nearly eighty years. It is a very beautiful species, the whole plant being handsome ; it grows nearly a foot high. The flowers are produced in terminal clusters, one large flower being surrounded by a whorl of smaller ones ; they are of a rich purplish-blue inside the corolla, which is rotate ; the segments (mitre-shaped) and the spaces between are prettily furnished ■with a feathery fringe ; the wide tube is also finely striped inside ; the calyx is tubular, having long awl-shaped segments; the stems are procumbent, firm (almost woody), short jointed, and thickest near the top. The leaves are of a dark shining green colour, from Isin to 2in. long, smallest at the root end, and finishing next the flowers with the largest, which are lance- OLD-PASHIONED GAJIDEN FLOWERS. 115 shaped, the lower ones being heart-shaped; they are closely arranged in pairs, are sessile, and at right angles with the stem. It seems to enjoy a shady damp corner in rockwork, where its distinct forms and neat habit appear to advantage. It should be planted in vegetable soil, such as peat or well-decayed leaves mixed with sand. It cannot endure drought at the roots. It is a slow-growing plant, but very florif erous ; the flowers last fully a fortnight in good form, the weather, however rough or wel, seeming to have no effect on them. In a cut state it is exquisite, but those who properly value the Gentians, especially the slow growers, will hardly care to cut away the stems, as, by doing so, not only will the plant be checked, but next year's growth will prove reduced in both number and vigour. It is propagated by root division when in a dormant state. I have also successfully transplanted this kind after it has made considerable growth, but the roots have been carefully guarded against dryness. f loweidng period, June to August. Gentiana Verna. SrKiNG Alpine Felwoet; Nat. Ord. Gentian ace^. A NATIVE evergreen creeper. This plant has many synony- mous names in old books. It is now, however, well known by the above Latin name. Let me at once say that it is a matchless gem. Its flowers are such as to attract the notice of any bxit a blind person. It is said to be rare now in this country, still, I think it is far from being extinct in its wild state. Be that as it may, it is fortunate that it can be easily cultivated, and nothing in a garden can give more pleasure. Its flowers are blue — but such a blue ! the most intense, with a large and sharply defined white eye, and though only Jin. across, one on each stem, and Sin. high, they are grandly effective. It has a tubular, angled calyx ; corolla five-cut. The leaves are oval, nearly lin. long, and hall as broad ; dark shining green and of leathery substance. The radical leaves are crowded into a nearly rosette form. By many this Gentian is considered difficult to grow, but if a proper beginning is made it proves to be of the easiest manage- ment. Yery suitable places may be found for it in, not on, rock- work, where good fat loam forms the staple soil ; little comers, not above the ground level, but on, or better still, below the ground level, are sure to rueet its requirements ; on the edge of a border, too, where moisture collects in the small gutter, has proved a suitable position for it. But, perhaps, the most suc- essful way of growing it is in pots, for, as with Trientalis Europa and other root creepers, when so treated more compact specimens are obtained. It is important to begin with properly- rooted plants, the crowns of which are often 2in. to Sin. below the surface ; from these spring the numerous, bare, yellow, wiry T 1 lU 116 fiAEDT PEEENlftAtS AND stems, too often taken for roots, whereas the main roots are still deeper, very long for so small a plant, and furnished with silky feeders. Good crowns potted in rich fibrous loam and plunged jn sand, fully exposed, with an unstinted supply of water, is the substance of the simple treatment my plants receive the year round ; they are still in the Sin. and 4in. pots in which they were placed three years ago, and during spring they are covered with flowers. When a pot is lifted out of the sand in which it is plunged, the fine long silky roots are seen to have made their way through the hole. Spring is the best time to plant, riowering period, April to June. Geranium Argenteum, SiLTBEY Oeane's-bill : Nat Ord. Geeaniace^. A HAEDY perennial alpine from the South of Europe, introduced in 1699. It is, therefore, an old plant in this country, and is one Fig. 44 GekANIUM ABGENTEnM (One-half natural size.) of the gems of the rock garden ; very dwarf, but effective, as mav be seen bv the Ulustration (Pig. 44). The foliage is of u OLD-FASHIONED GAItDEN FIOWEES. 117 distinct and somewhat conglomerate character, besides being of a silvery-grey colour. Well-grown specimens of this charming Crane's-bill look remarkably well against dark stones. Its flowers are large for so small a plant, and wherever it finds a suitable home it cannot fail to win admiration. In borders of rich soil it is grown to the height of about six inches, but in drier situations, as on the upper parts of rockwork, it is more dwarf. The flowers are fully an inch in diameter when open, cup- shaped, and striped in two shades of rose colour ; the unopened flowers are bell-shaped and drooping ; they are borne on long naked pedicels, bent and wiry, oftentimes two on a stem ; calyx five-cleft, segments concave; petals five, equal and evenly arranged. The leaves are produced on long, bent, wiry stalks, the outline is circular, but they are divided into five or seven lobes, which are subdivided and irregular, both in size and arrangement; they have a silky appearance, from being furnished with numerous fine hairs or down. The plant continues to flower for many weeks, but, as may be judged, it is, otherwise than when in flower, highly attractive. To lovers of ornamental bedding this must prove a first-rate plant. As an edging to beds or borders of choice things it would be pleasingly appropriate, and, indeed, anywhere amongst other dwai'f flowers it could not be other than decorative. It thrives well in a good depth of loam, its long tap-roots going a long way down. If, therefore, it is planted on rockwork, suitable provision should be made for this propensity. The pro- pagation of the plant is not so easy, from the fact that it makes large crowns without a corresponding set of roots, and its seed is scarce and often taken by birds before ripened. Moreover, the seedlings do not always come true; still, it seems the only mode of propagation, unless the old plants have plenty of time allowed them to spread and make extra roots. Latterly I have gathered the seeds before the capsules burst — ^in fact, whilst green — and, after carrying them in the waistcoat pocket for a few days, they have been sown in leaf soil and sand, and germinated freely. When the seedlings have made a few leaves the deterio- rated forms may be picked out readily. Flowering period. May to July. Gillenia Trifoliata. Syn. Spie^a Teipoliata and S. Triloba — Theee-leated Gillenia; Nat Ord. Rosace.^:. A HAEDT herbaceous perennial from North America, imported in 1713. The main features about this plant are its elegant form and rich tints. The illustration (Fig. 45) may give some idea of the former quality, but to realise tlie latter the reader sljould se§ 118 HAEDT PEEENNIALS AND a Uving specimen in the form of a bold clump. There is a wild beauty about this subject which it is not easy to describe ; as a flower it is insignificant, but the way in which the flowers are disposed on the slender stems, blending with a quaintly pretty foliage, neither too large nor dense, I'enders them effective in then- way. It is, however, only as a whole that it can be considered decorative, and it should be well grown. Although most nearly related to the spiraeas the distinctions from that genus are very marked, notably the very slender stems Fig. 45. GiLLENiA Trifoliata. (One-sixth natural size ; blossom, full size.) and large flowers, which are produced singly on rather long- bending pedicels, almost as fine as thread, and, like the stems, of a bright brown (nearly ruddy) colour. The flowers form a las panicle, interspersed with a little foliage. The calyx is a bright brown colour, rather large and bell-shaped. It contrasts finely with the five long, narrow petals, which are white, tinted with red ; they are also irregular in form and arrangement, somewhat contorted. The leaves, as implied by the specific name, are composed of three leaflets; they have very short stalks, and tlje leaflets are all but sessile, lance-shaped, finely toothed or OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWERS. 119 friuged, ribbed, and somewbat bronzed. Perhaps it is most useful in a cut state ; tbe sprays, even if tbey bave but one or two flowers on tbem, are cbarming for vase work. I may say tbe calyx is persistent, and after tbe petals bave fallen tbey not only increase in size, but turn a fine red colour, and so render tbe sprays additionally effective. To grow tbis plant well it sbould bave a deep soil ; it also loves moisture, and, as already binted, partial sbade; it is a steady grower, far from rampant, like tbe spirseas. Tbis is a capital subject to grow near or under "leggy" sbrubs and trees, wbere, in semi-shade, it is not only at borne, but proves very attractive. It may be propagated by division, tbe best time being early in tbe year, just before growth commences. riowering period, June to August. Gynerium Argenteum. Pampas or Silveet Grass ; Nat. Ord. Graminb^. This handsome grass is well known, at least, its feathery plumes are, from the fact of their being imported lai'gely iu a dry state for decorative purposes. It has not been grown long in this country, and, perhaps, it is not generally known that it endures our climate as an outdoor plant ; in most parts of Great Britain, however, it proves hardy. As far north as Yorkshire I have seen it in the form of specimens 8ft. high ; my own examples are yet young — two and three years old — and are only just beginning to flower, at tbe height of 3ft. to 4ft., diameter about the same. It is a native of South America, occurring mostly on the prairies; it is also found in other parts wbere there are swamps and high temperatures. Tbis would lead us to have doubts as to its suitableness for English gardens, but facts prove it to bave elastic qualities in tbis respect. It proves at all times to be a noble ornament in gardens of moderate size. In its growing or green state it is a distinct and pleasing object, but it is at its greatest beauty when it has ripened its tall and silky plumes, which glisten in the sunshine and are of a silvery-grey colour, and when also tbe very long and narrow grass has become browned and falls gracefully, more or less curling under the tufts. All its parts are persistent, and, as a specimen of ripe grass, it is not only ornamental in itself, but it gives a warm effect to its surroundings during winter. Under favourable conditions it will grow lOft. or 12ft. high, but it is seldom that it attains a height of more than 8ft. or 9ft. As an illustration (Pig. 46) is given, fui-tber description is not needed. I may add that if it is not " laid " by heavy snows, it keeps in good form until the new grass begins to grow in the following spring. I find it to do well in light earth, well enriched with stable 120 HAEDT PEEENNIALS AND manm-e, the soil having a more than ordinary quantity of sand in it ; the position is such as can hare a good supply of moisture, being near walks that drain to it. In stiffish loam a strong clump was planted three years ago, but it has never looked Fig. 46. Gtnerhtm Argenteum. (One-twentieth natural size.) healthy. The best positions for it are well -prepared shrubbery borders ; there it contrasts finely with the greenery, and receives some protection from the high winds. It may be increased by division of healthy roots, when the grass is ripe, but it ought not to be cut off. _ The plumes appear in August, and will keep in good condition till the weather changes to a. wintrjr charactev, OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN PLOWEES. I'A Harpalium Rigidum. 8yn. Helianthtjs Rigidtjs — Rigid Sitnfloweb; Nat. Ord. Composite. One of tte most effective and beautiful ilowers to be seen in autumn ; it would be bard to mention another at any period of tbe year that gives more satisfaction and pleasure tban tbis does, eitber as a decorative plant or a cut flower. A bold specimen, 4ft. tbrougb, is truly fine, and not only tbose who seldom visit a garden, but amateurs well versed in flowers, are alike cbanned witb its ricb and stately blossoms. Most people know wbat a Sunflower is ; many of tnem are coarse and almost ugly; but though the present subject is of the family, it is supremely distinct; it is without the formal character in its ray, and also the herby leafiness of many of its genus, its large, clean, shining, golden flowers, mounted on slender, ruddy, long, and nearly nude stalks, not only render it distinct, but impart an elegance to this species, which is all its own. It grows 4ft. high, is a comparatively new kind in English gardens, and comes from North America ; still, it has become widely known and appreciated, in fact a universal favourite, so much so that, although it increases fast, the demand for it is not yet satisfied ; it is, doubtless, a flower for every garden. The flowers are 4in. across, glistening golden yellow, and formed of a deep ray and small disk; the florets of the ray are Ijin. long and more than ^in. broad, they are incurved at their points, but reflexed at their edges, and ai'e handsomely ribbed or pleated; they are arranged in two or three rays in each flower, and irregularly disposed ; the florets, being weU apart, not only seem to give the bloom body, but also an artistic informality and lightness. The florets of the disk are chocolate colour, whence issue twirled filamentary forms, which impart to the centre of flower the appearance of being netted with a golden thread. The scaly involucre is formed of numerous small members of a dark olive-green colour, neatly arranged and firmly clasping the whole flower. The pedicels are long, round, covered with short stifE hairs, and thickened at the invo- lucre ; the stems are very rough, rigid, hard, and brown or ruddy on the sunny side, sometimes twisted and nude, with the exception of a solitary rudimentary leaf. The main stems have many axillary branches. The leaves of the root are few, 5in. or 6in. long, and oval. Those of the stems more lance-shaped, sessile, and slightly dentate, or toothed, lessening in size as they get higher ; all the leaves are very thick, three-veined, and remarkably hispid, being almost as coarse as sandpaper to the touch. I have also observed another peculiarity about the leaves, when they have been taken from the plant for an hour or more, i.e., they have a most elastic property. Very often the 122 HARDY PERENNIALS AND leaves may be seen in trios, whence spring three side branches, surrounding the upright and central one. The habit of the whole specimen is very rigid, with the exception of the flowers, which are slightly nodding ; the tallest growths need no stakes, and the species enjoys a happy immunity from insect pests, probably by reason of its hispid character. As already stated, as a garden subject this is one of the most useful ; it shows grandly in front of evergreens, and associates well with lilies. In borders of tall perennials, or in conspicuous but distant situations, such as are visible from the doors or windows of the house, or as isolated clumps, on or near the lawn, this fine Sun- flower may be planted with satisfactory results ; in fact, it cannot be planted wrong, provided it is kept away from small subjects. In a cut state it is of such value that it cannot be overpraised — a branch with four fully blown flowers and others nearly out, requires no assistance as a table decoration. Its blooms have the quality of keeping clean, doubtless from the smoothness of the florets. The cultural requirements are few. Ajiy garden soil will do for it, but if deeply dug and well enriched with stable manure, so much the better; it should have a fairly open situation; it is not only a Sunflower in name and form, but it enjoys sunshine. It is self -propagating, and runs freely at the roots, immediately under the surface ; the thick stolons form knobby crowns at their extremities, out of and from under which the roots issue, going straight and deep down, and so forming an independent plant. riowering period, August and September. Hedera Conglomerata. Conglomerate Ity; Nat. Ord. Araliac^. I DO not introduce this as a flowering subject, but as a dwarf ornamental shrub ; it differs so much from all other species and varieties of Ivy, and is so beautiful withal, that I trust no further apology is needed for giving it a place amongst decorative plants and shrubs. I have not been able to learn its habitat or origin ; its stunted tree-like shape, together with other pecu- liarities, would indicate that it is a species ; be that as it may, it has long had a place in English gardens, and yet it is seldom met with — it would be hard to explain why. On a bit of rock- work I have grown a specimen for nearly five years, and it was an old shrub when planted, yet it is not more than 2ft. in diameter and 1ft. high. It is much admired, and many notes have been taken of it. For rockwork, it is one of the best dwarf evergreen shrubs I know. It has very small leaves, densely arranged in flat or one-sided wreaths. They seldom exceed lin. in diameter, and are of various forms, as heart-shaped, sagittate, oval, tri-lobed, and so OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWEES. 123 on. _ Some are notched, others slightly toothed, but many are entire. All are waved or contorted, wrinkled and thickened at the edges, where the younger leaves show a brown line ; the under sides are pale green, and furnished with short stifE brown hairs, as also are the stout leaf stalks. The upper side of the foliage is a dark glossy green, with shadings of brown. In sub- stance the leaves are leathery, inclining to stiffness. The stunted branches have a cork-like appearance as regards the bark, are diffuse, curiously bent, and sometimes twisted loosely together. It is of slow growth, more especially in the upward direction, and though provision may be made for it to cling and climb, and it has also well-formed roots on the branchlets, still, it assumes more the tree-shape. I never saw or heard of its flowering, much less that it ever produced seed ; if it does not seed we are not only deprived of an ornamental feature belonging to the genus from the absence of berries, but it proves that it is only a variety of some species. It may be grown in any kind of sandy soil, and nothing special whatever is needed. An open sunny situation will favour its form and colour of foliage ; under trees I have found it to produce larger leaves of plainer shape and more even colour. During the winter it becomes a conspicuous object on rockwork, where it seems most at home. It may be propagated by cuttings, and spring is a suitable season to lay them in; in well dug light soil they soon make plenty of roots. Helianthus Multiflorns. Mant-floweeed Sunflower; Nat. Ord. CompositjE. This fashionable flower is glaringly showy. Still, it is not wanting in beauty ; moreover, it belongs to an "old-fashioned" class, and is itseli a species which has been grown for nearly 300 years in English gardens. It was brought from North America in the year 1597, and dui-ing the whole of its history in this country, it can hardly ever have been more esteemed than it is to-day ; it is very hardy, and in every way a reliable subject. Everybody knows the Sunflower, therefore no one will care to read a description of it ; still, one or two remarks may, perhaps, be usefully made in the comparative sense, as this is a numerous genus. Many of the Sunflowers are annuals, to which this and others of a perennial character are much superior, not only in being less trouble and not> liable to be out of season from mis- management in sowing and planting, as with the annual sorts, but from the fact that their flowers are of better substance and far more durable ; they are also less in size and more in number — two points of great gain as regards their usefulness as cut bloom. They are, besides, better coloured, and the flowering season more prolonged. Well-established specimens, two or 124 HAEDT PEEENNIALS AND tlu-ee years old, will, in average weather, last in. good form for fully six weeks. The colour (yellow) is common to the Sun- flowers. This species has flowers which vary much in size, from 2in. to Bin. across, and they are produced on stems 3ft. to 6ft. high, well furnished with large heart-shaped leaves of a herh- like character, distinctly nerved, toothed, and rough. Flowering period, August and September. H.m.fl.-pl. is, of course, the double form of the above, the disk being represented by a mass of florets considerably shorter than those of the ray proper. The flowers are not produced in , such large numbers as with the typical form, neither does the plant grow so tall, but the foliage is a little larger ; these con- stitute all the points of difference which I have noticed. These forms of Sunflower are very efBective — ^nowhere, perhaps, so much as amongst shrubs. The plants lift well, carrying a good ball that facihtates their being placed in pots even when in bloom, when, as I have lately seen, they may be used in a most telling manner with potted shrubs in large halls, corridors, and public buildings. In such places they get no sun to make them droop, and a good watering keeps them as fresh as if they had not been disturbed. Of the usefulness of this flower in a cut state nothing whatever need be said — who has not tried it ? Doubtless, when it becomes unfashionable it wiU have fewer patrons, but it will be the same flower, richly beautiful — aesthetic. No special culture is needed, any kind of garden soil will suit it ; if well enriched, all the better. Any situation will do but one too densely shaded. Propagated by splitting the roots after the plants have done flowering, or in spring. Flowering period, August and September. Helianthus Orygalis. Geaceftjl SrsTPiowEE; Nat. Ord. Coia:posiT.«!. Yet another Sunflower, and one, too, of the common yel- low colour, and not otherwise attractive, as may be seen by the illustration (Fig. 47) — of course, I am now referring to the flower only. There are, however, featm-es about this species which all must admire ; stems 7ft. high, furnished with bright foliage, in the manner indicated, are not mean objects, even if topped with but a common yellow composite. This is a native of North America, and of recent introduction ; it is a distinct species, and for foliage a prince among its fellows. I know not another to nearly approach it, H. angust if alius being perhaps the nearest, but that species has never with me proved of more than a biennial character, and its leaves, though long and narrow, are irregular and herby. The flowers need not be further described beyond saying that they are borne on short side shoots, near the top of the main OLD-FASHIONED GAEDEN FIOWBES. 125 Stems, but they harmonise witli the general arrangement of foliage, and, indeed, from their bract-like leafiness, somewhat enrich it. This is one of the latest-blooming Sunflowers. The leaves are Sin. to Sin. long, and Jin. to lin. wide, the lower half on the stems droop, though they are of good substance ; the upper half bend gracefully, and, from their close arrangement, all but hide the stem. At the axils of the larger leaves, tufts of FiQ. 47. HELiANiHns OETaiLia. (One-eiglitli natural size ; flower, one-fourtli natural size.) smaller (much smaller) leaves appear, causing the long stems to be top-heavy. Still, they wave and iDend during the strongest winds without supports or damage. It will be seen that the use- fulness of this plant consists in its distinct form and tallness, and that it is effective is without doubt. Among low shrubs, or with other tall things, will prove suitable quarters for it. Any kind of soil wiU do, shelter from the wind being the most important, and perhaps the only point to study when planting. It is propagated by root divisions when the tops have withered. Flowering period, Septemher and October. 126 HAEDT PEEENNIALS AND Helleborus Abchasicus. Abchasian Hellebobe ; Nat. Ord. RANUNCrLACEa!. This is a native of tte Caucasus, and in tMs climate, where it has been cultirated about fifteen years, it retains its foliage through the winter in a green state. It is a free grower, and flowers well, having a somewhat slender habit. It is sometimes described as having green flowers, but more often as having purple ones. It may be useful to remember that there are varieties, and it is likely that, even in the so-called green flowers, traces of purple will be seen. Not only is it a fact that this species, like H. purpurascens and H. niger, is far from fixed as regards depth of colour, but it is said to be one of the parent forms of some of the fine hybrids. These considerations may help to reconcile the apparently conflicting descriptions as , regards bloom colour. The flower stems are 12in. to 18in. high, distantly forked twice, and of a purplish colour. The flowers are produced in threes and fours on each of the branchlets, are inclined to purple, over 2in. across, and nodding ; sepals oval, waved, and set weU apart at the outer ends ; petals scale-like, green, and numerous ; anthers a beautiful delicate yellow ; leaves of the flower stems few, small, and of irregular form, notched, finely serrate, and of a purplish-green shade ; in their young state more especially does the purple prevail on the imder siirface — they are, in fact, nearly the colour of the flowers. The radical leaves are many, nearly a foot in diameter, of a dark green colour, and leathery substance; the leaflets are rather distant from each other, forming a noble pedate leaf ; they are somewhat one-sided, slightly waved, sharply and regularly toothed nearly all their length. Prom this description it will be inferred that this is one of the most distinct species, and such is truly the case. Moreover, it has a bold and i-ich effect. The older radical foliage, with its long stalks, is for the most part spread on the ground, when the new erect flower stems, furnished with small leaves and nodding buds and blossoms, all of a shining purplish colour, form a peculiar but pleasing contrast, not nearly so marked in any other species with which I am acquainted. There is a variety called H. A. purpti/reus, in allusion to the coloui' of the flowers being a little more purple. This Abchasian species and its varieties are not widely distributed; they are to be obtained, and need no longer be found only in rare collections. It is desirable in every way for the garden, where it forms a most ornamental object during winter. Its flowers last for four or five weeks, and in a cut state they form rich companion bloom to the white Christmas Rose. A good fat loam suits them ; the position should be rather OLB-FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWERS. 1*27 Btady and moist, but by all means well drained. A top dressing of good rotten manure, after all have done blooming, about the end of March, is a great help to them. AU the Hellebores may be easily increased by root divisions, but the stock should be strong and healthy. Roots affected with the least rot or canker should be discarded, as from their slowness of growth they wiU not be worth garden space. Seed may also be raised, but unless sown as soon as it is ripe germination is less certain, and always slower in proportion to the length of time it has been kept dry. I may add that, in February (1883), I noticed a pot, sown with Hellebore seed in February of 1880 ; a few were just pushing through the mould. The seed was sold to me as the produce of 1879. Since 1880 I have sown seed ripened on plants that were bloomed for indoor decoration, it being ready about February. From this I had nice little plants in less than twelve months. But by seed the process of propagation is slow, and not advisable unless the object is to obtain new varieties — a very easy matter, by the way, with this family, if the simple rules of cross- hybridising are applied. All the Christmas Roses should be so planted that they may be conveniently shaded during their blooming time. They mostly flower during the dullest part of the year, and the blossom, more especially the white kinds and those with metallic hues, unless protected, become damaged with mud splashes. Hand-lights or bell-glasses should be freely used. Flowering period, January to March. Helleborus Antiquorum. Ancient Hellebore ; Nat Ord. RANUNCtrLACEiE. In what sense this specific name is applied, or which meaning of the word is supposed to be exemplified in this plant, I have no means of being certain. It is very probable that the name is in reference to its " old-fashioned," but beautiful, flowers ; that they are "worthy," "dearer, more acceptable," and of "more esteem and account," is Kkely to be the verdict of every amateur who grows this kind sucessfuUy, for a more lovely flower could hardly be desired — ^large, white, softly toned with pink and grey. Sepals very large, incurved, overlapping each other, having the appear- ance of being semi-double, and being of good substance. The petals are small, short, of a lively green, and numerous._ It is a bold and effective flower, but to see it in its full beauty it should be gathered spotlessly clean, as grey and pink tints are ugly when soiled. The leaves accompanying the flowers are of the previous season's growth, and are produced on slender round stalks, 1ft. to lift, long, and much thickened at their junction with the leaves. The latter are nearly a foot across, pedate, or palm-shaped ; the segments or leaflets are sub-divided and of 128 HAEDT PERENNIALS AND irregular form, but mostly ovate, lanoe-sliaped, finely and sharply tootied, and of a dull green colour. In a ricli and free loam this kind proves a good grower, and when, in January, it is putting up its flower stalks, the buds being well developed and coloured from the time they appear above the earth, furnished with " floral leaf," in which respect it differs from the common Christmas Rose, it causes a pleased surprise that such a pure and delicate looking blossom can develop and mature in the depth of winter. As a cut flower by many it would be preferred to the better-known S. niger, not only for its antique tints, but for the fine cup form, which is constant, and the overlapping, incurved edges of the sepals. Altogether, its form is distinct, and when used in small glasses as single specimens, or, at most, accompanied only by a fern frond or a few blades of grass, it is a charming object. Cultivation, as for H. Abchasicus. Flowering period, January to April. Helleborus Bocconi. Boccon's Hblleboee ; Nat. Ord. Ranunculace.*!. This, by many, is believed to be a species, but as such is unau- thenticated. It is classed as a variety of H. purpurascens, compared with which, however, there are some well-marked dis- tinctions. It is sometimes called H. muUifidus, a name that suits it well, as being descriptive of its irregularly slashed foliage. It has but recently been brought under cultivation, and was found a native of the Apennines of Etruria. It proves perfectly hardy in this climate, and flowers in midwinter unless the season is very severe. As will be inferred from its near relationship to R. purpv/rascens, like that species it has non- persistent foliage, and the flower stems with their floral leaves appear before the leaves of the root. As a species or variety, whichever it may be, its more marked features are to be seen in the form or cut of the leaves. As a garden flower it is not showy, yet it stands out well in a group ; the nodding cup-shaped bloom is a bright green colour, and, for a time, the outer sides of the sepals only are seen ; but when the flowers are more fully expanded, the numerous and somewhat long stamens (which are a creamy-white) seem to nearly fill the cup ; to my mind, its greatest charm is in the fragrant odour which it yields, resembhng that of elder flowers. A single blossom, if plucked dry and when in its prime, scents a small room ; at such a stage, the anthers are loaded with pollen, and the tubular petals are richly charged with nectar. True, these last-named qualities are common to the genus, but when they are coupled with that of a sweet perfume, and produced by an open-air plant in winter, such a plant, be its blossoms OLD-FASHIONED GABDEN FLOWERS. 129 green or red, is too valuable to be neglected. The flowers are borne on stems 6in. to 12in. bigb, wbioli are twice and thrice branched or forked, having six to twelve blossoms on a stem. The flowers are bright green, nearly 2in. across, cup-shaped, and drooping. The sepals are somewhat oval, concave, and overlapping ; petals very short, pale green, and evenly arranged ; stamens creamy- white ; styles green. The flowers are supported by floral leaves, which are much divided, in the way of those of if. purpurascens, but the segments are more irregular in shape. The radical leaves have long stems, and are palmate ; divisions lobed. It dies down entirely during the autumn. Being a vigorous grower and free bloomer, and the flowers very durable withal, it should be largely grown for the sake of its sweet-scented blossoms for cutting pur- poses. There is an allied variety cultivated under the name of 3. B. angustifolia (narrow-leaved). Assuming that H. Boaconi is a species, this is a variety but slightly removed from the typical form, inasmuch as the latter is not only much cut in the floral and radical leaves, but the shape is uncertain. This fonp, then, which, at least by its name, claims a specific feature in the cut of leaf, may be somewhat diflacult to identify, more especially as there are no other dissimilarities of note. Seen, however, as a well-grown specimen, the featiire of narrow foliage is not only manifest, but the plant is very efEective. Cultivation and flowering period, the same as with H. Abchasicus. Helleborus Colchicus. OOLCHICAN HeLLEBOEE; Nat. Ord. RANUH'CtrLACE^. A NEW species from Asia Minor. This is a strong grower and blooms well. The flowers vary in size and shade, but it may be said to be distinct in form and pronounced in colour, the latter being an uncommon feature with the Hellebores; either growing or cut it is indispensable to a group. Moreover, it is one of the best flowers of the genus, and would stand high even in a selection of the best six; it is one that should have a place in every collection. It flowers amongst the previous season's foliage on branched stems ; the sepals are somewhat round and flat, which gives the flower a stiff appearance. StUl, from their unusual deep purple colour and the yellow stamens, together with the manner in which the sepals overlap each other, the flower is a most effective one ; the petals are a bright green, and blend harmoniously with the yellow and purple parts. The leaves are very large, pedate, dentate, and distinctly veined. In a young state the foliage is richly coloured or tinted with ' bloom." It enjoys a rich sandy loam and summer shade. Cultivation, the same as for H. Abchasicus. flowering period, January to March. E ISO HAEDT PERENNIALS AND Helleborus Cupreus. OOPPEEY Helleboee ; Nat. Ord. Rantjnculace^. Notwithstanding its peculiar colour, as implied by tlie name, this is a pleasing border flower ; moreover, the somewhat large flowers are also numerous ; blossoms Sin. across, arranged m clusters of four and six, and handsomely furnished with new foliage, are no mean things in the depth of winter. The specific name of this Hellebore, though applicable, is not so definite as some, inasmuch as the colour to which it refers ia that of several other species and varieties ; there may be rather more of the metallic hue in our subject, but it is so slight as to be outside the pale of notice to the florist. The Coppery Hellebore is a native of mid-Europe, and is one of recent introduction into this country, where it proves hardy but annually dies down. It grows and flowers freely in January, the flower stalks appearing before the radical foliage, and attaining a height of nearlya foot. The flower stems are a palish green, with purplish markings, are twice branched and f ui-nished with floral leaves ; the latter have ample stipules and seven longish divisions, which are well spread out, distinctly veined underneath, and coarsely toothed. The flowers are 2in. to 3in. across, sepals pointed, overlapping for about half their length, and well expanded ; their outsides are of a purplish colour, which extends along the stalk; the inner surface of the sepals is a yellowish green, the whole being suffused with a metallic hue or "bloom"; the stamens and anthers are a creamy white, the petals short and apple-green. The flowers droop gracefully, and are rendered all the more pleasing by the floral leaves which immediately support them. The leaves of the root are large and pedate, the divisions wide apart and unevenly toothed; the under sides are distinctly veined with purplish-brown when in a young state. The habit is robust, and the bloom is produced well above the radical foliage. There is a peculiar beauty about a strong flowering specimen which would hardly be expected from the above de- scription, and it is even more difficult for me to do it justice. In a out state a whole stem, with its flowers in different stages of development, is fine. The youngest rosy-purple buds, about the size of a cob nut ; the more opened bell-shaped forms, just showing both the inner and outer colours of the sepals ; these surmounted by the longer-stalked, fully expanded, but drooping flower, with its tassel-like bunch of stamens, and all finely inter- spersed with young leaves of two distinct colours, according to the side which meets the eye — all go to make it a charming decoration for indoors, and if cut clean it deserves a place for the whole week or more dui'ing which it remains in good form. Cultivation, as for H. Ahcliasicus. Flowering period, January to March. OLD-FASHIONED GAEDBN PL0WEE8. 131 Helleborus Dumetorum. Bushy Hellebore; Nat. Ord. RANUNcrLACE^. One of the less showy species. It comes from Himgary, and has been grown in this country about seventy years. It entirely renews its foliage yearly, the flower stems appearing before the radical leaves. The flowers are small, green, and drooping ; the sepals are roundish. The flower stems are twice bra,nched, full-flowered, and furnished with the " cut floral leaf," which is nearly stalkless and palmate. The root leaves are very smooth and pedate. The bright green flowers mix well with others, but where Hellebores are grown in limited varieties this may be omitted without loss as regards floral beauty. Cultivation, as for S. Abchasicus. Flowering period, February and March. Helleborus Fcetidus. SiiNKiNa Hellebore ; Nat. Ord. RANrNCULACE.*!. This is a native species, distinct, ornamental, and evergreen. Its name may, with some, prevent its being planted in the pleasure garden, but its foetid odour is not perceptible unless sought for. It is mostly found wild in this country in chalky districts, and it occurs largely in the southern parts of Europe. Though poisonous, it is a valuable herb. Its value as a garden subject consists in its dark evergreen foliage, good habit, and handsome panicles of bloom. The latter is produced under cultivation in midwinter. It never fails to flower then if the position is a sheltered one. In its wild state the flowers appear in March. It belongs to that section of the Hellebores which have leafy stems and many flowers ; its grows 2ft. high, and never seems to rest, but goes on making new leaves throughout winter. The flowers are produced in clusters larger than a man's hand, and are of a green colour, the sepals edged with brown, which turns to a purplish tint; they are nearly an inch across, weU cupped, and mostly hang bell-fashion; the leaves are much smaller than those of most Hellebores, pedate, smooth, of stout substance and dark green colour; the divisions of the leaves are narrow and numerous. The foliage is persistent, and keeps green untU after the new has appeared ; it bends downwards in a pleasing manner, and the leafy stems have a palm-like appear- ance. These, when topped with panicles of flowers, though they be green ones, are worthy objects for any garden. It is a suit- able plant for mixing with deciduous shrubs ; bold specimens of it enuven such borders by their shining greenery, and they are of greatest service when most needed, for in such sheltered quarters they are pretty sure to flower during winter; and K 2 132 HAEDT PEKENNIAL3 AND tke summer Btade, if not too dense, will prove more beneficial to ttem ttan otherwise. Cultivation, ordinary garden soil. Flowering period, December to April. Helleborus Guttatus. Spotted Helleboee ; Nat. Ord. 'RA.NxsscTTLAC'E.m. This is one of tbe newer species or varieties ; its main distinc- tion is well implied by the specific name. The flowers are fully 2in. across, and white ; the sepals are spotted with purple ; the petals are more constant than in some species, and of a rich green colour ; flowers are produced on stems having the floral leaf; the buds are a greenish white, but very beautiful. The foliage is smaller than that of most kinds ; the leaves are radical, rather short-stalked, pedate, and divisions narrow ; they are of a leathery substance and a dark green colour. This is a free bloomer, a fact which, together with those of its winter-blooming habit and distinct flowers, renders it a valuable acquisition t» the open garden. Either cut or growing, it is very lasting. Cultivation, as for H. Abchasicus. Flowering period, January to March. Helleborus Niger. BiiACK Helleboee, or Christmas Rose; Nctt. Ord. RanunotjIiACE^. A HAEDT, herbaceous perennial. It came from Austria in 1597. In favoured situations it proves evergreen; there is nothing black to be seen about a growing plant, and it has often puzzled its admirers as to the cause of its specific name, which is in reference to the black roots of a year or more old. It would appear, moreover, that this is not the true " Black Hellebore " of the ancients (see remarks under S. Orientalis). This " old- fashioned " flower is becoming more and more valued. That it is a flower of the first quality is not saying much, compared with what might be said for it; and, perhaps, no plant under cultivation is capable of more improvement by proper treatment (see Fig. 48). Soil, position, and tillage may all be made to bear with marked efBect on this plant, as regards size and colour of flowers and season of bloom. We took its most used common name — Christmas Rose — ^from the Dutch, who called it Christmas Herb, or Christ's Herb, "because it flowereth about the birth of our Lord lesus Christ," and we can easily imagine that its beautiful form would suggest the other part of its compound name, " rose." In sheltered parts, where the soil is deep and rich, specimens will gi-ow a foot high and begin to bloom in December, continuing until March. OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWEKS. 133 The individual flowers last a long time in perfection, either on the plant or in a cut state ; they vary somewhat in their colour, some being more brown on the outer side of the sepals, and others much suffused with pink; but under glass, whether in the shape of a bell glass in the open garden, or a greenhouse, they mature to a pure white ; their form is som.ewhat like that of a single rose, but may be more properly compared to a flower of its own order — the single pseonia. It is composed of five sepals, and is 2in. to Sin. across, being white or rose-coloured ; these sepals form a coroUa-like calyx ; the petals are very short and tubxilar, nestling down amongst the tassel-like bunch of Fio. *8. Hellebosus Nioee. (One-quarter natural size.) stamens; the flowers are produced on stout leafless scapes, having one or two bractese ; for the most part the flowers are in ones or pairs, but sometimes there may be seen three, and even four, on a scape. The leaves are radical, having stout, round stalks; they are large and pedate in shape, stout, and _ of leathery substance. The habit of the plant is neat, growing into rounded tufts. In suitable quarters it proves a quick grower, whilst m ungenial situations it will hardly increase, though it is seldom killed. As it happens that its flowers are produced at a most unfavourable time for keeping them clean, they shotdd be 134 HABDT PEEENNIAIS AND covered witli some kind of glass shelters, or, where the soil is retentive, the roots may be lifted with large balls of earth to them, and be placed in a cool greenhouse well up to the light. It would, however, be a mistake to adopt this plan where the soil is loose, and during the lifting operation will fall from the roots ; and it is also a mistake to expect flowers from newly -planted roots. Where its fine bloom is required at Christmas, good roots should have been planted fully a year previously. Doubt- less many an amateur will herein recognise his failing point when expecting Christmas Roses from roots planted only a month before, and sometimes less. True, the buds are there, and fine ones, too, perhaps, but the plants, unless transferred with a good ball, suffer a check which it will take at least a year to outgrow. It is a good plan to grow this flower in good-sized pots, which should be plunged in a shady part of the garden all the year, with the exception of the blooming period ; but even with pots well grown and showing plenty of buds, the laistake is often made of suddenly placing them in heat, immediately over hot pipes or flues, the heat from which shrivels the buds and foliage too. Though the Hellebores are amongst our best flowers for forcing, it should be done gently in an atmosphere constantly kept humid. As a cut bloom, the Christmas Rose vies with the eucharis and pancratium. For vase work, or used about the person, it is a flower that wins the greatest admiration, and it is no unusual thing for cut flowers to last indoors quite a fortnight. B. n. angustifolius (narrow-leaved Hellebore) has smaller flowers than the type. The divisions of the leaves or leaflets are narrower, whence its name. The foliage is of a pale or apple green, whereas that of the type is very dark. It was introduced in the same year as its reputed parent. As a foliage plant it is very handsome, the leaves bending gracefully, and the whole specimen having a neat appearance. H. n. maximus is the largest Christmas Rose, and is a truly grand variety ; the flowers are 4in. and 5in. across. The illustration (Fig. 49) is one-fourth natural size. The scapes are very stout, and produce several flowers, which are held well above the foliage ; hke those of the type, they, too, are tinted with a pink colour, which passes away when the flowers ai*e a week or so old. The foliage is remarkably bold, having thick, round, and beautifully marked stalks. Well-established Bpecimens have a shrub-like effect, being nearly 2ft. high, and nchly furnished to the ground. The half -blown buds of this variety are exquisitely beautiful, and vary somewhat in form according to their age ; some resemble a nearly blown tulip, and others a rosebud. As buttonholes, backed with a frond of maidenhair, they are charming. A whole scape, having one fuUy-blown flower and several buds, is the most perfect OLD-fASHlONEb GARDEN FtOWERS. 135 and beautiful decoration imaginable for a lady's hair. This variety is at its best in the montli of December, being a little earlier than the typical form. All these kinds should be grown in moist and rather shady quarters; under trees not too densely foliaged will suit them ; the soil should be a deep rich loam. I may mention that all my Hellebores are grown imder " nxirses," i.e., suitable small trees. I use walnut. About eighteen species and yarieties are planted under six small trees, 4ft. high. The reasons why I use walnut are, that they leaf late in spring and lose their leaves early in Fig. 49. Helleborus Niqeb Maziuus. (One-quarter natural size.) autumn, so affording the greater amount of light during the flowering time of the Hellebores, and screening them in summei from the sun with their ample but not over thick foliage ; a cut under the trees once a year with a sharp spade keeps them dwarf and prevents their making too many strong roots. With- out saying that Hellebores should be grown in this way, it will serve to show how they may be conveniently shaded. Nothing could well look more happy under such treatment, and, once properly planted, they give no further trouble than a mulching of rotten manure in spring, when all the kinds have finished flowering. Christmas Roses are easily raised from seed, provided 136 HABDY PEfiENNIAtS AND it is sown as soon as ripe, but plants so raised are two or three years before they flower. The quicker method of increase is by division of the roots. This can only be done successfully when the old stock is in robust health. Pieces of roots taken from old and unhealthy specimens will remaia in the ground for twelve months as immovable as stones, whereas the least bits of clean young growths will form nice blooming plants the first year. Flowering period, December to March. Helleborus Odorus. Sweet-scented Hellbboee ; Nat. Ord. Ranun ctjlacb^. Like all the Hellebores, excepting the white-flowered H. niger and its varieties, this has, untU very recently, been much neglected, notwithstanding that its name implies the rare and desirable quality of a sweet odour; moreover, it is of easy culture, very hardy, and a fi'ee bloomer. It is a native of Himgary, and was introduced to English gardens in 1817. It is like E. purpurascens, only its flowers are green ; it even more strongly resembles our native H. viridis. All its foliage is renewed annually. It belongs to the section having stems few-flowered, forked, and bearing floral leaves. It grows 9in. to 12in. high. The flowers are green, small, nodding, and scented. The sepals are nearly round, and overlap each other. The flowers are produced at long intervals on the twice-branched, stout, pale green stems ; they are supported by prettily-cut leaves, having lance-shaped segments, finely serrated, also having large sti- pules. The radical leaves are palmate, covered with a fine down on the under suirface. The segments are oblong, undivided, and at the base quite entire, but finely toothed near the top. The bloom lasts a long time, either cut or in the growing state. There is nothing very distinct to the eye about this species, but it is to be commended for the sweetness of its flowers. Like other Hellebores, it should be grown in a shady place, where there is a good depth of rich sandy loam. Propagated by division of healthy stock at almost any period. Flowering period, February to March. Helleborus Olympicus. Olympian Hellebore ; Nat. Ord. Eandncdlace.*!. This comes from a Grecian habitat, as the specific name denotes ; still it is perfectly hardy in this climate, and it deserves a place in every garden. It is not so old in English gai-dens as some kinds, and may not be much known ; at any rate, it is seldom OLD-FASHIONED GAEDEN FLOWEES. 137 met with ; but, from tlie fact of its coming into bloom in the first month of the year, and having finely -formed purple flowers, it is a desirable companion to the white Christmas Rose; it is variously stated to have white and purple flowers, both state- ments being authorised ; they are produced in spare clusters on stems a foot high ; the buds are charming objects, of a ruddy- brown colour, and the size of a big filbert; they are rather close together, and supported by a " cut floral leaf." The leaves are well divided and almost palm-shaped, the leaflets being ovate and toothed. It is a free grower, and never fails to bloom well too. Cultivation and flowering period, the same as with S. niger. Helleborus Orientalis. Eastern Helleboeb; Nat. Ord. RANtrNOTJLACE^. Sometimes also called the Lenten Rose, as it may often be seen in flower during Lent, though it is no uncommon thing for it to bloom in January in favoured situations and mild winters. This is a very old species which has long been known to botanists, but it has only recently been introduced into this country. It is a native of the Levant, is plentiful on mountains and near Thessalonica and Constantinople. It has gone under the name of H. officinalis, and as such was, as it still is, the shop Hellebore of the East. As a garden flower it is to be recommended as one of the best of the genus ; the colour is often a fine rose variously tinted, and the blooms are of good size. It is, however, a species respecting which there is still considerable misconception. One authority says the leaves die off and again appear with the flowers ; another classes it with the group "leaves not annually dying"; then one says, "the greenish- white blossoms are tinted at the margin with purple ''; another, that the flowers are "rose-coloured"; whilst botanical descriptions, usually so taunting to the florist as regards blossom-colour, are no exceptions in this case. " Sepals oval, coloured," does not point out very clearly the information desired. Many of the species of Hellebore are known to produce flowers varying more or less in colour; and we also know that an individual blossom, during the long period in which the sepals keep good, often changes its tints and colours, but we are scarcely prepared to hear that a species has greenish-white flowers, whilst we have always seen a rosy or rosy-purple one produced. Still, the information from another source, that H. orientalis is a species intermediate between S. niger and S. viridis, would seem to favour the greenish-white as the typical colour; be that as it may, it is most likely that the more desir- able rosy-flowered variety will prevail in flower gardens, that being the general recognised colour of the type, and moreover, 138 HAEDT PERENNIALS AND one which renders it pleasingly distinct in the whole genus. There are hybrid kinds which have been raised from this species crossed with S. viridis and, perhaps, others, and some of them have greenish- white flowers; but they should not be confounded with the species under notice. These varieties have received such names as S. orientalis elegans, S. o. viridescens, and if. o. punctatus. If hybrids are to be honoured with specific names, it wiU require much care to avoid confusion, and it is just possible that some such causes have led to the various descriptions above referred to. The type under notice is fairly distinct, and the amateur having a slight acquaintance with the Hellebore family will have little difficulty in making it out. The flowers are produced on forked stems, and are accom- panied by finely-cut floral leaves, nearly sessile and palmate; the radical leaves are large, pedate, downy underneath, having long stalks, and remaining green throughout winter. The habit is to push the stout flower stems well up above the foliage, sometimes as high as 18in. ; the flowers are very durable, at least the major parts — as the sepals — are, the stamens and petals falling some- what sooner than those of most species ; if difEerent positions are given to a few specimens, flowers may be had from Christmas to Lent, according to amount of shelter or exposure therein obtained for the plants. There are facts connected with this plant, as other than a garden subject, which can hardly fail to be generally interesting. " This is the Black Hellebore of the ancients," so that, though H. niger bears the name and is known to be largely possessed of properties similar to those of the oriental species, it is proved to be wrongly applied. So much was claimed by ancient doctors for the Black Hellebore as a medicine in mania, epilepsy, dropsy, and other iUs to which mortals are heirs, that naturally the true plant was sought with much zeal. Dr. Woodville laments the want of proper descriptions of plants and the consequences, and in his " Botany," p. 51, points out some ridiculous errors made in reference to the Black Hellebore previous to 1790; he gives the names of many plants which had been mistaken for it and actually employed, and he assumes that at the time of his writing aU such errors had not only been discovered, but cor- rected, by what he then described as, and we now call by the name of, H. niger, being the true Black Hellebore ; and after all, the potent herb of the ancients has been identified in a plant (a near relation, it is true) other than the white Christmas Bose • — it may be some time before we come to think of our present subject as the true Black Hellebore, especially when anothei-wise popular species bears the name. Cultivation, as for S. niger. Flowering period, December to April. OLD-PASHIONEB GABDEN PLOWEES. 139 Helleborus Purpurascens. PtJEPLISH HeLLEBOEE ; Nat. Ord. E/ANUNCULACEiE. A NATIVE of Podolia and Hungary, introduced sixty to eerenty years ago. It belongs to tlie section whose flowers appear before tbe root leaves, having branched flower stalks and the cut floral leaf. It is a dwarf kind, and varies very much ; I have now an established specimen in bloom at the height of 3in., and others at Sin. or 9in. It also diif ers in the depth of bloom-colour ; some of its flowers may be described as purpHsh-green and others as greenish-pui-ple, slaty and dove-coloured; others have a tinge of red more visible. The flowers are few, on twice- forked stems, are 2in. or more across, and commonly, as the name implies, of a purplish colour ; the inner surface of the sepals is a slaty shade, the purple prevailing on the outer surface ; the foi-m of the flower is nearly round and slightly cupped, from the nearly round or kidney shaped sepals, which neatly overlap each other, and are also incurved at the edges ; the petals are very short and green ; the stamens and anthers of a creamy white ; the floral leaf is nearly stalkless ; segments unevenly toothed. The radical leaves are " pubescent on the under surface, palmate, with the segments cuneated at the base, and from three to five lobed at the apex." The habit is robust and free blooming ; the flowers slightly droop, and, though the colours are not showy, they are attractive from the way m which they are borne on the straight stems and the absence of the larger leaves. It is a desirable species for the garden ; a few specimens grown amongst a mass of the " winter aconite " are enough to make one forget that it is winter. Cultivation, as for H. niger. Flowering period, February to AprU. Hepatica Angulosa. Nat. Ord. RANUNCTrLACE.S!. This is a very distinct species. It comes from North America, and is twice the size of S. triloba in all its parts ; the leaves are more cut, and very woolly ; the flowers are blight mauve, and l^in. across. All the Hepaticas are slow growers, but H. angu- losa is the more vigorous. Some say they should be grown in peat, but I never saw them so fine in peat as in strong loam, well drained and manured; they are the better with slight shade. I do not object to peat, as possibly it may be more suitable than the natural soil of some gardens. Still, if I had to make np a compost for Hepaticas, I should freely use strong loam on a well-drained site. With me they have been in flower nearly three months, commencing in February. It seems desirable to increase these fine spring flowers, but they are most impatient of being disturbed, and, after aU, the 140 HAEDT PBEENNIALS AND increase can exist in no finer form tlian in big clumps, though when they are to he propagated the roots should be divided before the new leaves are produced, which is during the bloom- ing period. A deeply- dug and weU-manured plot should be prepared for them, and their long roots should not be doubled up in the least; they both need and deserve great care. Flowering period, February to April. Hepatica Triloba. Syns. Anemone Triloba and Anemone Hepatic^; Nat. Ord. Rantinculacb^. The well-known common Hepatica, of which there are so many beautiful varieties. It is a hardy perennial, one of the "old- fashioned " flowers of English gardens, and is said by some to be a British species ; anyhow, it was well known and admired in this country 300 years ago. Well-established specimens foi-m Fig. 50. Hepatica Tkiloea. (One-third natural size.) neat tufts of three-lobed leaves on long stems, which are not evergreen in this climate, though the Hepaticas are known to be BO in North America, one of their most extensive habitats. Here, under cultivation, they produce much finer flowers, and more of them. The cut (Fig. 50), however, shows the foliage in more perfect form than it is commonly seen to be in this climate during the period of bloom, when the old is usually OLD-PASHIONED GARDEN FLOWERS. 141 Bered, and tlie new scarcely visible. The varieties of S. triloba differ only in tlie colour and form of their flowers, there being blue, purple, white, and pink. Of the first and last named there are double varieties as well. Cultivation, the same as for S. cmgulosa. Flowering period, February to April. H. t. splendens is a charming Windflower, and one which, from its extra brilliancy, is sure to become a favounte, as, indeed, the whole genus Anemone is. It is a new variety of H. triloba, and is yet somewhat scarce, differing from the more gene- rally known kinds of the same species in only two points, so that, beyond the mention of them, no other description is need- ful: (1) Its flowers are single red, but so much deeper in colour, brighter, and of better substance, as to be quite distinct, and merit the name "splendens." (2) It flowers earlier than the commoner red kind. This handsome seedling of the common Hepatica is very suggestive of what can be done by raising seed from carefully-selected sorts, and within the last few years something has been done in that direction, so that in a little time we may expect to see other good varieties. I may add that seedlings are three years before they bloom, and even longer before a proper idea can be formed of their qualities. Cultivation, the same as for H. angulosa. Flowering period, February to March. Hesperis Matronalis Flore-pleno. Double Sweet Rocket, or Dames' Violet ; Nai. Ord. CrUCI]FER.S!. There are several double forms of this very popular old flower, Buch as purple, ruby, and pure white, the last named being by far the greatest favourite. A few years ago it was said to be very scarce, and in some parts of the country it certainly was so, but when the present taste for the good old flowers became general, it was not only found, but quickly propagated, so that now the double white Sweet Rocket may be had everywhere, and certainly no more beautiful flower can occupy the garden borders, its perfume being strong and deliciously fragrant. The parent plant of these double kinds is widely distributed over Europe ; all are perfectly hardy. They vary in height from 12in. to 18in., branching candelabra- like, the flowers being produced in terminal spikes, arranged in the way of, and very much resembling, the double stocks — in fact, the Hesperis used to be called " Queene's GiUoflower." The leaves may be briefly described as oval, lance-shaped, toothed, and veined ; dark green, and often spotted or blotched. Gerarde's description, too, may be given, as it is always pleasant to recognise the old plants of 300 years ago : " Dames' Violets 142 HAEDT PERENNIALS AND hath great large leaues of a darke greene colour, somewhat snipt about the edges ; among which spring up stalks of the height of two cubites, set with such like leaves ; the flowers come f oorth at the toppe of the branches — like those of the Stock Gilloflower, of a verie sweete smell." These desirable flowers have a long blooming period, and their cultivation is simple ; there is, however, one special point to be observed, otherwise these double kinds will die ofE. It should be remembered that they produce no seed, and propagation must be carried out by divisions of the roots and cuttings; old plants, too, have a habit of forming their perennial crowns nearly out of the soil, so that the roots going down from them are often bare and unestablished ; the older parts, too, are frequently attacked by ground vermin. . No doubt these causes would tend greatly to the former scarcity of the finer kinds, but all the difficulties, if they can be called such, may be overcome by the very simple process of either putting in cuttings like wallflower slips during summer, or, as soon as the old plants are past their best bloom, dividing and replanting the various parts deeper, whereby all of them, however small, will make good plants the following season. This mode of keeping up the stock wiU be found to make the plants vigorous and free blooming, and also will prove a remedy for the complaint so often given expression to in such words as "I lost all my double Sweet Rockets; I cannot keep them above two years." Flowering period, June to August. Heuchera. AlTJM-EOOT; Nat. Ord. SAXirEAGACE.»!. This is a small genus of hardy perennials suitable for the decoration of the English garden from their bold and finely- shaped leaves, which are well marked with various pleasing tints, also because of their perpetual verdure and neat habit. It takes its name from J. H. de Heuoher, a botanist. The species, as many of them as are known, are from American habitats ; nearly aU have been introduced within the last sixty years; the well-known H. Americana, however, is an old plant in English gardens, having heen cultivated for 223 years. The order, as given above, together with the illustration figuring one of the species (see Fig. 51), will give some idea of the usefulness of the genus, especially when it is remembered that in the depth of winter the foliage is fresh, and even in a growing state. The flowers are of little value for ornamental purposes ; they are very small and numerous, and are arranged in panicles or racemes, on_ rather taU and mostly leafless stems, round, and .somewhat •mxj ; calyx, petals, and stamens have a mixed appear- ance, the whole flower being of a dingy colour, often resembling OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWERS. 143 some of the panicled bloom of meadow grass, when seen at a short distance ; the calyces, however, are persistent, they crown the capsules; these and the naked stems, from their durable nature, mar the beauty of the foliage for several weeks, unless cut off. The plants are more ornamental without the flowers, as they impart a seedy appearance ; at no time does the foliage show to more advantage than in January, when most herbaceous plants are dormant, and when their handsome tufts are alike beautiful, either bedewed with fogs, crystallised with hoar-frost, or glitter- ing in the sunshine. As a genus, Heuchera is sometimes placed after Saxifraga and before that of Tiarella ; the latter it much resembles, as well as the genera Mitella and Tellima. Anyone kno-iving these will at once admit the usefulness of the plants under notice. Not only do they make good edgings or Unes to borders, but the leaves in a cut state are of great service for table decora- tion, doing duty repeatedly around dishes, &c., either with or without flowers; after being so used, if placed ia water, they may be kept a fortnight in good form. I am told that the leaves are sold in Covent Garden Market for similar purposes. I have seen them used ia the autumn with the large white anemone, and in winter with the Christmas rose, one flower arranged and tied on the face of a single leaf. These placed round dishes, &c., have a pretty effect. They grow freely in any kind of soil, excepting stiff clay, and are readily increased by division of the crowns. This may be done any time, but, perhaps, spring is the best. The Heucheras bloom from May to August. Heuchera Americana. American Heuchera; Nat. Ord. SAxiFRAaAOEiE. The flowers of this species are a dull or reddish purple. The foliage is rough and clammy; the form of leaf resembles that of H. glabra (see Fig. 51), but the colour is a lighter green. All the genus are of an astringent nature, but this species is remarkably so, and in its native country has earned for the family the name of " Almn-i-oot." For cultivation and flowering period see Seuchera, Heuchera Cylindrica. Otlindrical-spiked Heuchera; Nat. Ord. SAxiFRAGACE.ffl!. This is much in the way of H. Richardsoni, with the distinction indicated by the name, the flowers being arranged evenly round the spike like a cylinder. For cultivation and flowering period see Senchera 144 HABDT FEBENNIALS AND Heuchera Drummondl. Detjmmond's Heuchera ; Nat. Ord. Saxipeagace^. A TALL kind, witli leaves of handsome shape (heart-shaped and lobed) and greener than most varieties. Cultivation and flowering period are described under Seuchera. Heuchera Glabra. Smooth Heucheea; Nat. Ord. Saxipeaoace^. This was introduced in 1824 from North America. The foliage is bold and abundant; the illustration (Fig. 51) not only gives a Fici. 51. Heuchesa Glabra. (One-sixth natural size.) good idea of the form and habit of foliage, but fairly represents the whole genus, as seen during the late (1882) season. This species has dull pinkish flowers ; the scapes have a few leaves ; root leaves are 2in. to Sin. in diameter, heart-shaped, loljed, toothed, smooth, and of a dark bronzy-green colour. The leaf stalks are long and slender; the habit very neat. Cultivation andflowei-ing period are described \mdier Heuchera. Heuchera Lucida. Shining-IiEaved Hetjcheea; Nat. Ord. Saxipeagace.5!. A teet dwarf species, not more than Sin. or 4in. high ; the foliage a clear bright gi-een, nearly kidney-shaped, lobed, and roundly toothed. The fresh appearance of its prostrate leaves, which are 2in. across, forms a pleasing object in mid-winter. Cultivation and flowering period, as given under Heuchera. OLD-S-ASHtONED GARDEN B'L0-ffEE9. 145 Heuchera Metallica. Nat: Ord. Saxipeagaces]. This was presented to me in 1881 by a lady, who informed me that it was introduced by the late Miss Hope. It is a beautiful plant ; the hues somewhat justify the name, but to the touch the leaves are more like a soft fabric, as cloth or velvet. The flowers are of no value, but the foliage is bloom of no mean order, so much 80, that everyone stops to adm^ire this handsome plant Cultivation and flowering period, as given under Heuchera. Heuchera Micrantha. Small-floweeed Heucheea; Nat. Ord. Saxifeagace^. From Columbia. Flowers a yellowish-green; leaves nearly round, bluntly lobed, crenate or round toothed, the teeth homed or pointed; the colour is inclined to auburn during autumn, but it varies, and for a botanical description it would be hard to state a particular colour. The gardener, however, will find in this a most useful plant, where different forms and tints of foliage are desirable. Into the sub-tropical garden it may be introduced with good effect I may add that the leaf stalks are 9in. to 12in. long, also of a rich brown colour, and the leaves are Sin. to Sin. across. Cultivation and flowering period, as described under Heuchera. Heuchera Purpurea. Nat. Ord. SAxiPEAGACE.ffi). This seems to be a less known or newer variety. If the name has reference to the coloiir of the foliage, it is not inappropriate. The bold leaves are a dark green, shading to a bronze, then a purple, the whole having a soft downy effect. It is a charming kind. Cultivation and flowering period, the same as for the Heuchera. Heuchera Ribifolia. Ctjeeant-leated Hettcheea; Nat. Ord. Saxieeagace*. This is another dwarf kind, producing such leaves as the name denotes. Of this species the only useful feature for a garden seems to be its habit of neatly carpeting the ground under deciduous trees. It has also a remarkably fresh appearance during winter. Cultivation and flowering period, as for other Heucheras. h 146 HASDY FEBENNIAIS AiTD Heuchera Richardson i. Richardson's Heucheka; Nat. Ord. Saxifeagace^. A TALLER variety than H. Driimmondi. Tie most striking distinctions are tie pale green colour of tie young leaves con- trasting -witli tie bronzed appearance of tie older ones, and the larger size of its flowers, wMch, however, are green. Cultivation and flowering period, as for other species. Houstonia Ccerulea. Bluets; Nat. Ord. G-entianace^. Hardt and evergreen. This pretty little shining plant never exceeds a ieigit of Sin. Like most species of tiis order, boti flowers and foliage have much substance and endure for a long time in perfection, but its neat form and bright parts most com- mend it— it almost sparkles in both leaf and flower. This species, FiS. 52. HOUSIONIA C