Eleagnus.--Effective variegated shrubs which prove perfectly hardy
in the south of England. They grow in any ordinary soil, and are
increased by cuttings. Height, 10 ft.
Elsholtzia Cristata.--Hardy annuals of great value where there are
bees, the flowers being very sweet. Sow in the open in spring. Height,
1 ft.
Empetrum.--Small hardy evergreen shrubs requiring an elevated and
exposed position, and a dry, barren soil. They flower in May, and are
propagated by layers. Height, 1 ft.
Endive.--Sow at intervals from May till the end of August, but the
principal sowing, to stand the winter, should be made the first week
in August, giving the plants the protection of a frame. When the early
sown ones are 2 in. high transplant them to a rich nursery bed. When 4
in. high lift them carefully, with the soil round the roots, and place
them in drills about 3 in. deep and 1 ft. apart each way. Water well
immediately after planting, and keep the soil moist.
Epacris.--Pretty Heath-like shrubs. They like a sandy peat soil, and
plenty of moisture. The pots in which they grow should be provided
with ample drainage and stood in a larger-sized pot, with wet moss
between the two. As soon they have done blooming cut them back freely,
and when the fresh shoots are 2 or 3 in. long, pot them off, placing
them in a close, cool pit for three or four weeks. Gradually harden
off, then place them in a sunny situation out of doors, and remove
them to the conservatory in October. They only need sufficient heat to
keep out the frost. Cuttings of the young wood placed in sand with a
little bottom-heat will strike.
Epigaea Repens (_Creeping Laurel_).--This creeper is hardy and
evergreen, and its flowers possess a delicious fragrance. It may be
grown in loam and sandy peat or in leaf-mould with a little sand
added, in a well-sheltered and moist situation; and may be propagated
by layers, in the same manner as Carnations. It flowers in April.
Height, 6 in.
Epilobium Angustifolium.--An ornamental herbaceous plant which may be
grown in any common soil from seed sown in autumn, or may be increased
by division of the roots. It puts forth its flowers in July. Height, 4
ft.
Epimedium.--An elegant hardy perennial, suitable for shaded borders
or rock-work. The best soil for it is sandy peat. It flowers between
April and June, and is increased by dividing the root. Height, 1 ft.
Eragrostis Elegans (_Love Grass_).--One of the best of our hardy,
annual, ornamental grasses. Sown in March, it will reach perfection in
August or September. Height, 1 ft.