Alonsoa.--A pretty and free-blooming half-hardy annual, which produces
fine spikes of orange-scarlet flowers in June. It is multiplied by
cuttings or seeds. Height, 1 ft. to 1-1/2 ft.
Aloysia Citriodora.--This favourite lemon-scented verbena should be
grown in rich mould. If grown in the open, it should be trained to a
wall facing south, and in winter the roots need protecting with a heap
of ashes and the branches to be tied up with matting. It is increased
by cuttings planted in sand. August is its flowering season. Height, 3
ft.
Alsine Rosani.--This pretty little herbaceous plant, with its cushions
of green growth, makes a very fine display on rock-work or in any
shady position. Ordinary soil suits; it is of easy culture, and
flowers during June and July. Height, 3 in.
Alstromeria (_Peruvian Lilies_).--These beautiful summer-flowering
hardy perennials produce large heads of lily-like blossoms in great
profusion, which are invaluable for cutting for vase decorations as
the bloom lasts a long time in water. Plant in autumn 6 in. deep in a
well-drained sunny situation, preferably on a south border. Protect
in winter with a covering of leaves or litter. They may be grown from
seed sown as soon as it is ripe in sandy loam. They bloom in July.
Height, 2 ft. to 3 ft.
Alternantheras.--Cuttings of this greenhouse herbaceous plant may be
struck in autumn, though they are usually taken from the old plants in
spring. Insert them singly in 4-1/2-in. pots filled with coarse sand,
loam, and leaf-mould. When rooted, place them near the glass, and keep
the temperature moist and at 60 degrees or 65 degrees, then they will
flower in July. Height, 4 in. to 1 ft.