Orchids.--The four classes into which these charming and interesting
plants are divided may be described as (1) those coming from the
tropics, (2) from South Africa, (3) from the South of Europe, and
(4) our native varieties. The first require a stove, the second a
greenhouse, the third and fourth slight protection during winter. As
their natural character differs so widely it is necessary to ascertain
from what part of the globe they come, and to place them in houses
having as near as possible the same temperature and humidity as that
to which they are accustomed. The pots in which they are grown should
be filled with fibrous peat and sphagnum moss, largely mixed with
charcoal, and abundant drainage ensured. They are propagated by
dividing the root stocks, by separating the pseudo-bulbs, and, in case
of the Dendrobiums, by cuttings. Orchis Foliosa (_Leafy Orchis_) may
be grown in the open ground in good sandy loam. When once established
it is best not to disturb it, but if needed it may be increased by
division, after the tops have died down. Orchis Fusca (_Brown Orchis_)
may likewise be planted in the open, in a sheltered position, in fine
loam and leaf-mould, the soil to be well drained, yet constantly
moist.
Origanum Pulchellum.--Popularly known as the Beautiful Marjoram, this
plant is useful for cutting for vases. It is perennial and hardy, and
thrives in a dry situation with a sunny aspect and in a sandy soil.
The bloom is in its best condition in October. The rooted shoots may
be divided in spring or almost at any other period, or it may be
propagated by taking cuttings in summer. Height, 1-1/2 ft.
Ornithogalum.--O. Arabicum bears a large white flower with a shiny
black centre. It is a fine plant for pot culture, or it may be grown
in water like the Hyacinth. It may be planted in the open early in
spring in sandy loam and peat. Take it up before the frost sets in and
store it in a dry place, as it requires no moisture while in a dormant
state. In September the flowers are produced. Height, 6 in. O.
Umbellatum (_Star of Bethlehem_) is a pretty little flower often found
in English meadows, is quite hardy, and once established may be left
undisturbed for years. It throws up large heads of starry flowers,
which are produced in great abundance. While in a dormant state the
bulbs should be kept almost dry. It is propagated by off-sets; flowers
in May. Height, 1 ft.
Orobus.--These hardy perennials bear elegant Pea-shaped blossoms. The
plants will grow readily in any light soil, and are easily increased
by root-division in the spring, or by seeds. They flower in June.
Height, 2 ft. to 3 ft.
Osmanthus.--These elegant hardy evergreen shrubs succeed best in
light, sandy loam, and like a dry situation. They may be increased by
cuttings of the young shoots with a little old wood attached, or they
may be grafted on to common Privet. The variegated varieties are very
beautiful. They grow well on chalk soils. Height, 4 ft. to 6 ft.
Othera Japonica.--A newly introduced evergreen shrub very similar to
the Holly. It is perfectly hardy and may be treated in the same manner
as that plant.
Ourisia Coccinea.--A hardy herbaceous, surface-creeping perennial of
singular beauty as regards both leaf and flower. The soil in which it
is grown must be well drained, a peat one being preferable; and the
position it occupies must be well shaded from the rays of the midday
sun. It flowers from May onwards to September, the cut bloom being
admirable for mixing with fern leaves. As soon as new life starts in
spring the roots may be divided. Height, 9 in.
Oxalis.--A genus of very pretty bulbous plants that thrive well in a
mixture of loam, peat, and sand, or will grow in any light soil. Most
of the tender kinds may be reared in a frame if protected from frost
in the winter. After they have done flowering they should be kept dry
until they begin to grow afresh. They are increased by off-sets from
the bulb. The hardy species should be planted in a shady border, where
they will grow and flower freely. The seeds of these may be sown in
the open in spring. Some of the varieties have fibrous roots: these
will bear dividing. They are equally suitable for pots, borders, or
rock-work. Height, 9 in. to 3 ft.