_C. r. coccinea_ is another kind; the specific name is misleading. It is

not scarlet, but nearer a rose colour, and when compared with the

typical colour it appears much inferior; still, it is a good variety.

All the three colours, when grown side by side, are very showy when in

bloom.

This species, with its varieties, may be easily propagated by root

divisions at any time from late summer to spring; the long fleshy roots

should not be broken more than can be helped; every piece with a crown

on it will make a flowering plant the first season.

Flowering period, June to September.

Cheiranthus Cheiri.

COMMON WALLFLOWER; _Nat. Ord._ CRUCIFERÆ.

This well-known evergreen shrub (see Fig. 24) is more or less hardy in

our climate, according to the conditions under which it is grown.

Although a native of the South of Europe, it rarely happens, however

severe the winter may be in this country, that we are totally deprived

of the favourite bouquet of Wallflowers in winter or early spring, while

it is equally true that, during the hard weather of one or two recent

winters, in numerous gardens every plant was killed. In favourable

seasons its blooms are produced throughout winter, but the full blow

comes in April. Three hundred years ago it was known by its present

name; in this respect it is a rare exception, as most flowers have many

and widely different names, especially the "old-fashioned" sorts, so

that often the varied nomenclature hinders the identification of the

species. At one time the Wallflower was called the "Gillyflower," but

the name is now only applied to a biennial and single-flowered variety

of the stock--a near relation of the Wallflower. More than 200 years ago

Parkinson wrote, "Those Wallflowers that, carrying beautiful flowers,

are the delights and ornaments of a garden of pleasure."

[Illustration: FIG. 24. CHIERANTHUS CHEIRI.

(One-fourth natural size.)]

Of its well-known beauties, as regards its form, colour, varieties, and

delicious perfume, description is needless, though I may say, in

passing, that its fragrance renders it of value to those whose olfactory

nerve is dead to the scent of most other flowers.

Two errors are frequently committed in planting the Wallflower; first,

at the wrong time, when it is nearly a full-grown specimen and showing

its flowers; next, in the wrong way, as in rows or dotted about. It

should be transplanted from the seed beds when small, in summer or early

autumn, and not in ones and twos, but in bold and irregular groups of

scores together; anything like lines or designs seems out of harmony

with this semi-wildling. There is another and very easy method which I

should like to mention, as a suggestion--that of naturalisation; let

those near ruins, quarries, and railway embankments and cuttings,

generously scatter some seed thereon during the spring showers, when the

air is still; in such dry situations this flower proves more hardy than

in many gardens. Moreover, they serve to show it to advantage, either

alone or in connection with other shrubs, as the whin, which flowers at

the same time; here, too, it would be comparatively safe from being

"grubbed up."

Flowering period, January to June.

Cheiranthus Marshallii.

MARSHALL'S WALLFLOWER; _Nat. Ord._ CRUCIFERÆ.

A distinct and very hardy hybrid, being shrubby and tree-like in shape,

but withal very dwarf. From the compact habit, abundance and long

duration of its flowers, it is well suited for showy borders or lines.

It is not yet well known, but its qualities are such that there can be

no wonder at its quickly coming to the front where known.

It differs from the common Wallflower in being more dwarf and

horizontally branched, while the leaves are more bent back, hairy, and

toothed; immediately below the floriferous part of the stem the leaves

are more crowded, the stems more angular, the flowers much less, not so

straggling, and of a dark orange colour. Other hybrids in the same way

are being produced, differing mostly in the colour of the flowers, as

lemon, greenish-yellow, copper, and so on.

Plants a year old are so easily raised from cuttings, and form such neat

specimens, that a stock cannot be otherwise than very useful in any

garden; besides, they lift so well that transplanting may be done at any

time. My finest specimens have been grown from their cutting state, on a

bed of sifted ashes liberally mixed with well-rotted stable manure; in

such light material they have not only done well, but, when a few roots

were required, they lifted large balls without leaving any fibre in the

ground. To have good stout stock before winter sets in, slips should be

taken from the old plants as soon as they have done flowering; dibble

them into light but well enriched soil, and give water in droughty

weather only.

I ought to mention that this dwarf Wallflower, and also its allied

kinds, are capital subjects for very dry situations; on old walls and

the tops of outhouses they not only do well, but prove decorative

throughout the year. In such places plants will live to a great age, and

sow their own seed freely besides.

Flowering period, May and June.

Chionodoxa Luciliæ.

SNOW GLORY; _Nat. Ord._ LILIACEÆ.

A hardy bulbous perennial, from Asia Minor. It has only been cultivated

about four years in English gardens; still it has been proved to be as

hardy as the squills, which it very much resembles. Mr. Maw, who

discovered and introduced it, found it "near the summit of the

mountain," which (though it is a native of a much warmer climate than

ours) may account for its hardy character. That it is a most beautiful

flower is beyond doubt, but there are those who think it has been

overpraised. It should not, however, be forgotten that Mr. Maw's

description of it was from a sight of it in masses, a state in which it

can hardly have been judged yet in this country, as until very recently

the bulbs were very expensive. It has, however, taken kindly to our

climate, and is likely to increase fast, when it may be seen to greater

advantage.

It grows to the height of 6in. or 8in.; the flower scapes, which are

rather slender, are somewhat shorter than the foliage, the flowers being

longer in the petals than the squills, almost star-shaped, and nearly

1in. across; later on they reflex. Their colour is an intense blue,

shading to white in the centre of the flower. The flowers are produced

in numbers, from three to six on a stem, having slender pedicels, which

cause the flowers to hang slightly bell fashion. The leaves, from their

flaccidness and narrowness, compared with the squills, may be described

as grassy. The bulbs are a little larger than the kernel of a cob nut,

nearly round, having satiny skins or coats.

It may be grown in pots, and forces well if allowed first to make good

roots, by being treated like the hyacinth. It should be kept very near

the glass. It has also flowered fairly well in the open border fully

exposed, but in a cold frame, plunged in sand and near the glass, it has

been perfection. Single bulbs so grown in "sixties" pots have done the

best by far.

All the bulbs hitherto experimented with have been newly imported; very

different results may possibly be realised from "home-grown" bulbs. It

is also probable that there may be varieties of this species, as not

only have I noticed a great difference in the bulbs, but also in the

flowers and the habit of plant. This I have mentioned to a keen

observer, and he is of the same opinion; be that as it may, we have in

this new plant a lovely companion to the later snowdrops, and though it

much resembles the squills, it is not only sufficiently distinct from

them, but an early bloomer, which we gladly welcome to our gardens. It

seems to do well in equal parts of peat, loam, and sand, also in leaf

soil and sand.

Flowering period, March and April.

Chrysanthemum.

_Nat. Ord._ COMPOSITÆ.

The flowers to which I would now refer the reader are of no particular

species, but, like several other genera, this genus has been

considerably drawn upon or utilised by the hybridiser, and the species,

looked upon from a florist's point of view, have been much improved

upon by their offspring. Not only are Japan and China the homes of the

finer flowering species, but in these countries the Chrysanthemum has

been esteemed and highly cultivated for centuries; in fact, such a

favourite is this flower with the Chinese, that they have treated it

with many forms of their well-known art in matters horticultural, and

when the flower was brought to this country it would doubtless be in a

form improved by them. It reached this country nearly 100 years ago, and

was known by the names _C. indicum_ and _C. sinense_; about the same

time a species from the East Indies was called _C. indicum_. This

flower, from the time of its introduction, has been justly appreciated;

and by the skill of several cultivators we have a largely increased

number of forms and colours. Still, there are certain distinctions kept

up amongst the varieties, and they are commonly known by such names as

"large-flowering," "pompon, or small-flowered," "early flowering,"

"anemone-flowered," and "Japanese." These names, besides being somewhat

descriptive, are otherwise useful to the amateur who may wish to grow a

representative collection, and where there is convenience it is

desirable to do so in order to observe their widely different forms and

colours, as well as to enjoy a long succession of bloom.

So well is the Chrysanthemum known that little could be usefully said of

it by way of description; but well as it is known and easy as its

culture is, there are few things in our gardens that show to greater

disadvantage. This should not be with a subject which offers such range

of habit, colour, and period of blooming; and when such is the case,

there must be some radical mistake made. The mistake I believe to be in

the selection, and that alone. If so, the remedy is an easy matter. Let

me ask the reader to remember three facts: (1) Many sorts grown in pots

and flowered under glass are unfitted for the borders or open garden.

(2) The later flowering varieties are of no use whatever for outside

bloom. (3) Of the early blooming section, not only may the finest

varieties be grown with marked effect, but they, as a rule, are of more

dwarf habit, and will afford abundance of bloom for cutting purposes for

nearly two months. Selections are too often made from seeing the fine

sorts in pots; let it be understood that all are perfectly hardy, but

owing to their lateness, their utility can only be realised under

artificial conditions. I am not now considering pot, but garden kinds,

and no matter what other rules may be observed, if this is overlooked it

will be found that though the plant may grow finely and set buds in

plenty, they will be so late as to perish in their greenness by the

early frosts; on the other hand, of the early section, some will begin

to bloom in August, and others later, each kind, after being covered

with flowers for several weeks, seeming to finish naturally with our

season of flowers.

There is nothing special about the culture of this very hardy and

rampant-growing plant, but I may add that, though it will stand for many

years in one place, and flower well too, it is vastly improved by

division of the roots in autumn or early spring every second year. The

earth of its new site should be deeply dug and well enriched with stable

manure; it will not then matter much what sort of soil it is--the more

open the situation the better. How grandly these decorate the borders

when in masses! and as a cut flower I need hardly say that there are few

to excel the Chrysanthemum, either as an individual bloom or for bouquet

and other work.

I do not frequently make mention of many florists' flowers by name, but

in this case I think I may usefully name a few varieties: Andromeda,

cream coloured, Sept.; Captain Nemo, rosy purple, Aug.; Cassy, pink and

white, Oct.; Cromatella, orange and brown, Sept.; Delphine Caboche,

reddish mauve, Aug.; Golden Button, small canary yellow, Aug.;

Illustration, soft pink to white, Aug.; Jardin des Plantes, white,

Sept.; La Petite Marie, white, good, Aug.; Madame Pecoul, large, light

rose, Aug.; Mexico, white, Oct.; Nanum, large, creamy blush, Aug.;

Précocité, large, orange, Sept.; Soeur Melaine, French white, Oct.;

St. Mary, very beautiful, white, Sept. These, it will be seen, are

likely to afford a variety and succession of bloom.

Flowering period, August to November.

Cichorium Intybus.

_Syns._ C. PERENNE _and_ C. SYLVESTRE--WILD

SUCCORY _or_ CHICORY; _Nat. Ord._ COMPOSITÆ.

This herbaceous perennial is a native plant, in many parts being very

common. Not only, however, do many not know it as a wild flower, but we

have the facts that under cultivation it is a distinct and showy plant,

and that of late it has come into great request. Its flowers are a

pleasing blue, and produced on ample branches, and for mixing with other

"old-fashioned" kinds, either in the borders or as cut blooms, they are

decidedly telling; for blending with other Composites it has its value

mainly from the fact that blues are rare in September; the China asters

are too short in the stalk for cutting purposes, and many of the tall

perennial starworts are neither bright nor well disposed. I may also

mention another proof of its decorative quality--it is not common

(_i.e._, wild) in my district, and a plant being cultivated in my garden

for its flowers has been so much admired that it is likely to have other

patrons, and in many instances it is being introduced into gardens where

the choicest flowers are cultivated. I am bound, however, to say that

when not in flower it has the appearance of the commonest weed.

Its flowers are produced when 2ft. to 6ft. high. They are of a fine

glistening blue colour, 1in. to 1½in. across, and in the way of a

dandelion flower, but stalkless individually, being disposed in ones,

twos, and threes, somewhat distantly in the axils of the leaves, and all

over the numerous and straggling branches. The leaves are rough, of a

dingy green colour, and variously shaped, Gerarde's description being as

follows: "Wilde Succori hath long leaues, somewhat snipt about the edges

like the leaues of sow thistle, with a stalke growing to the height of

two cubits, which is deuided towarde the top into many braunches. The

flowers grow at the top blewe of colour; the roote is tough and woodie,

with many strings fastened thereto."

I find this plant not only enjoys a half shady place, but if it is so

placed that its quick growing branches can mix with those of other

subjects in a trellis or other supports, its coarser parts will not only

be partially hidden, but the rich coloured flowers will show to

advantage. I may mention that mine is mixed with Virginian creeper on

wires, and the effect may easily be imagined. It will do in any kind of

garden soil, but if deeply dug and well manured the flowers are vastly

improved. Propagated by seed or division of the stout tap roots.

Flowering period, August to September.

Clethra Alnifolia.

ALDER-LEAVED CLETHRA; _Nat. Ord._ ERICACEÆ.

A hardy deciduous shrub, and mentioned in connection with herbaceous

perennials because of its rich flowers and dwarf habit. It is a native

of North America, having been grown in this country for 150 years; it is

not so often met with as it ought to be, though much esteemed. It

becomes very productive of flowers when only 2ft. high, but grows

somewhat taller when well established; it is more valuable than common

from its floriferousness, during late summer to the end of the season.

Let me at once state that its winning point is the delicious scent of

its pure white flowers; it is very powerful, and like that of the lilac

and alder combined; the racemes are 2in. or 3in. long, and compactly

formed of short-stalked flowers less than ½in. across; they are of good

substance, and in form resemble the lilac flower minus the tube; the

flower stems are somewhat woody, and foliaged to the base of the spike

or raceme. The leaves are of varying sizes, oval, lance-shaped, and

short-stalked, distinctly veined and slightly wrinkled, sharp but finely

toothed, of a dark shining green colour on the upper and a greyish-green

on the under side. The whole shrub is somewhat rough to the touch; the

habit is bushy and branching, increasing in size from suckers; the

numerous twiggy side shoots of the previous year's growth produce the

flowers.

It enjoys a light soil and sunny situation, and it may be planted

anywhere in the shrubbery or borders as a first-class flowering subject.

Its scent loads the air for some distance around, and pleasantly reminds

one of spring flowers. Such sweet-smelling flowers are not too plentiful

in September, and I know not a better one than this amongst hardy

flowers for the late season. Its odour is fine and full; a single sprig

now by me proves almost too much for the confinement of a room. This

quality is invaluable in small flowers that can be freely cut, which,

moreover, as in this case, are otherwise suitable for bouquet work.

Propagated by cuttings and division of the suckers, taken when growth

has ceased; if put in sandy loam and a warm situation, they will become

rooted during the following spring.

Flowering period, August and September.

Colchicum Autumnale.

MEADOW SAFFRON; _Common Name_, AUTUMNAL CROCUS; _Nat.

Ord._ MELANTHACEÆ.

A native bulbous perennial (see Fig. 25). The Colchicums are often

confounded with the autumn-flowering species of croci, which they much

resemble when in bloom; the similarity is the more marked by the

absence, from both, of their leaves in that season, otherwise the leaves

would prove to be the clearest mark of difference. Botanically they are

far removed from each other, being of different orders, but there is no

need to go into such distinctions, not, at any rate, in this case.

[Illustration: FIG. 25. COLCHICUM AUTUMNALE

(about one-sixth natural size.)]

The flowers are well known and they need not be described further than

by saying they are in form crocus-like, but much longer in the tubes and

of a bright mauve-purple colour. The bulbs have no resemblance to the

crocus whatever, being often four times the size of the crocus corms.

Moreover, they are pear-shaped and covered with flaky wrappers of a

chestnut brown colour; if examined, these coverings will be found, near

the neck of the bulb, to be very numerous and slack fitting, extending

above the ground, where they have the form of decayed or blackened

foliage; a singular fact in connection with the roots is, they are not

emitted from the base of the bulb, but from the side of the thickened or

ovate part, and are short and tufty. In early spring the leaves, which

are somewhat like the daffodil, but much broader and sheathed, are

quickly grown; at the same time the fruit appears. In summer the foliage

suddenly turns brown, and in the autumn nothing is seen but blackened

foliage, which is very persistent, and which, a little later, acts as

sheaths for the long-tubed flowers. Unless the weather be very

unfavourable, these flowers last a long time--fully two weeks. The

double variety, which is somewhat scarce, is even more lasting, and I

may add, it is a form and colour so softly and richly shaded that it is

nothing short of exquisite; but the single variety, now more especially

under notice, is also capable of agreeably surprising its friends when

used in certain ways, for instance, as follows: A tray of the bright

green and nearly transparent selaginella, so common in all greenhouses,

should form the ground for twos or threes of these simple but elegant

Saffron flowers; no other should be placed near--their simplicity forms

their charm. It will be seen that the robust but soft-coloured flower of

the meadows harmonises finely with the more delicately grown moss. In

other ways this fine autumnal flower may be used with pleasing effect in

a cut state, and it blends well with the more choice exotics. This is

more than can be said of many hardy flowers, and it is fortunate that

during dull weather, when we are driven from our gardens, there are

still some flowers which may be hastily gathered and so arranged indoors

as to give us all the pleasure which only such flowers can yield at such

a season.

I find this subject to do well in any situation, but I think the blooms

are a richer colour if grown under partial shade. The bulbs should not

be disturbed if abundance of flowers are wanted; but if it is found

desirable to propagate them, the bulbs may be lifted every two or three

years, when the tops have withered, and when there will probably be

found a goodly crop of young tubers.

Flowering period, September and October.

Colchicum Variegatum.

_Nat. Ord._ MELANTHACEÆ.

This comes from Greece, nevertheless it is perfectly hardy; it is not

only peculiarly pretty when closely examined, but a truly handsome

flower, either as cut bloom or seen in groups in a growing state.

Compared with _C. autumnale_, it is shorter in the tube, or more dwarf;

still, it is a larger flower, and its rosy purple petals, or divisions

of the corolla, are more spear-shaped, and each from 2in. to 3in. long;

they have a stout and almost white mid-rib, the other parts of the

segments being distinctly and beautifully chequered with white and rosy

purple; the tube is stout, and of transparent whiteness; the foliage

less than that of the British species, and more wavy. The habit of the

flowers is erect, and during sunshine they become flatly expanded, when

they will be 4in. to 5in. across, being 3in. to 4in. high. It is a very

durable flower, lasting at least a fortnight, and many are produced

from one bulb, appearing in succession, so that the blooming period is

well extended; it braves the worst weather with little or no damage.

Unlike the longer-tubed varieties, it is never seen in a broken state,

and it is this which mainly renders it superior. Either as a cut flower,

or a decorative subject for the borders or rockwork, it is a first-rate

plant, being neat and showy.

It enjoys a sandy loam in a moist but warm situation; at the base of a

small rockwork having a southern aspect it flourishes to perfection; it

can hardly be planted wrongly provided there is no stagnant moisture.

Propagated like _C. autumnale_, than which it is of slower increase.

Flowering period, September and October.

Coreopsis Auriculata.

EAR-LEAVED COREOPSIS; _Nat. Ord._ COMPOSITÆ.

[Illustration: FIG. 26. COREOPSIS AURICULATA.

(One-fourth natural size.)]

The oldest species of the genus grown in English gardens; its flowers

are yellow, but dotted at the base of the ray florets. The leaves, as

implied by the name, are dissimilar to other species, being lobed and

having ear-like appendages; but this feature is far from constant, and

otherwise the leaves differ, being sub-sessile and oval-lance-shaped

(see Fig. 26). It came from North America as long ago as 1699. Slugs are

very fond of these plants, and in winter more especially, when the

dormant eyes are not only in a green, but exposed state; they should be

watched after, or during one mild night the whole may be grazed off, to

the great injury of the plant.

Its habit, uses, culture, and propagation are the same as for _C.

tenuifolia_.

Coreopsis Grandiflora.

LARGE-FLOWERED COREOPSIS; _Nat. Ord._ COMPOSITÆ.

In many parts this resembles _C. lanceolata_, its main distinction being

implied by its name. The flowers are larger and the ray florets more

deeply cut; it is also bolder in the foliage, and the stems grow nearly

as strong as willows. It is an abundant bloomer, and a good specimen is

a glorious object during the autumn. 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.

SPEAR-LEAVED COREOPSIS; _Nat. Ord._ COMPOSITÆ.

This form of bright yellow flower is in great favour during 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, understood 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 country 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 3in. across; the florets

of the ray are flatly arranged, shield-shaped, pleated, and

four-toothed, the teeth being sometimes 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 the most useful

flowers, both, in the garden and when cut, the long stalks in both cases

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 well-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 propagation may be by

division, as in this damp climate it does not seem to ripen seed, but I

have found sometimes not a little difficulty 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

rudimentary roots where in contact with the earth. These may either be

pegged and covered with soil, or cut off and made into cuttings,

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.

SLENDER-LEAVED COREOPSIS; _Nat. Ord._ COMPOSITÆ.

Hardy, 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 2 ft. high; each flower has a long nearly nude stalk, slender

but wiry; the flowers are 1½in. 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 disappearance 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 gracefully 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

before 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 formal 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 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 Flame nasturtium

(_Tropæolum speciosum_).

This plant should have a rich soil, sunny aspect, and a raised or

well-drained site, and this is all 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.

[Illustration: FIG. 27. COREOPSIS TENUIFOLIA.

(One-sixth natural size; _a_, half natural size.)]

Flowering period, August and September.

Cornus Canadensis.

CANADIAN CORNELL, _or_ DOGWOOD; _Nat. Ord._

CORNACEÆ.

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 all its parts, and the two may have

been confounded. They flower, however, at very different dates, _C.

Canadensis_ beginning in June and continuing until well into autumn;

during the month of August the flowers are in their finest form and

greatest numbers. It grows 6in. to 8in. high, and notwithstanding its

dwarfness, it proves a most attractive object, being not only

conspicuous for so small a plant, but chastely beautiful.

[Illustration: FIG. 28. CORNUS CANADENSIS.

(One-half natural size.)]

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 petals, and, as may be

seen in 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,

somewhat heart-shaped and bluntly-pointed, richly tinted at their edges

and tips with a bright pink colour, and forming a flower-like bract

1½in. across the broadest part. The bract and pedicels of the umbel all

spring from the extremity of a peduncle 1½in. 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 1½in. to 2in. long, elliptical-oblong, entire,

smooth, waved, distinctly 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

rotundifolia_, and _Salix reticulata_, and it would form 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 mentioned, together with a light vegetable soil, this plant

will grow 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 rain. 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._ FUMARIACEÆ.

A native herbaceous perennial, though somewhat rare in 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-foliaged 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 cut from, the foliage being more valuable

than the flowers.

Its native habitats are said to be old walls and ruins, but I have

proved it for years to do grandly in ordinary garden soil, both exposed

and in the shade of 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_ GREAT-FLOWERED CORYDALIS; _Nat. Ord._

FUMARIACEÆ.

[Illustration: FIG. 29. CORYDALIS NOBILIS.

(One-half natural size; blossom, natural size.)]

A hardy tuberose perennial, imported from Siberia in 1783. It is one of

that section of the Fumitories called "Hollowe Roote," 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 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 parts 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 produces 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 8in. The specimen 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 arranged 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 colour,

and withal exquisitely scented, like peach blossom and lilac. The leaves

are stalked bipinnate; leaflets 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 propagation is

carried out by careful root division.

Flowering period, April to June.

Corydalis Solida.

_Common Name_, FUMITORY; _Nat. Ord._ FUMARIACEÆ.

This is said to be a British species, but it is a doubtful, as well as

somewhat scarce one. Though but a small plant of the height of 6in. or

8in., it is very effective, being compact with finely-cut foliage of a

pale glaucous green, and the stems pleasingly tinted. 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 illustration (Fig. 30) will

show. Its specific name is in reference to its 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 "Hollowe roote." When the

flowers fade the whole plant withers, nothing being left but the bulbous

roots to complete 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.

[Illustration: FIG. 30. CORYDALIS SOLIDA.

(One-half natural size.)]

I find it to do well on rockwork, also in well-drained borders of light

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._ IRIDACEÆ.

This is a 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 3in. to 5in. long, and stoutly formed;

the colour is a shaded lilac-purple, striped with darker lines; the

petals or divisions of the perianth are 1½in. long and ½in. 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._ POLEMONACEÆ.

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 flowers are very beautiful, but all

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 requirements

are now well understood. It is not a showy subject, but, when examined,

it proves of exquisite beauty.

The 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 appearance, 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 are alternate and

laxly arranged on the flower stems, which are 6in. to 12in. long, round,

and nearly red. Each leaf is less than 1in. 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.

[Illustration: FIG. 31. CYANANTHUS LOBATUS.

(Natural size.)]

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 damp leaf mould and

sand. The position should be open and sunny, in order to have flowers.

Cuttings may be taken during 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 SLIPPER; _Nat. Ord._ ORCHIDACEÆ.

This well-known terrestrial orchid is a rare British plant, very

beautiful, and much admired, so much so, indeed, that many desire to

grow it. It happens, however, 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 very few in Great Britain, it having 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

climate or strongly reminds us of others where the most gorgeous

varieties of flowers and fruit grow wild. It is large and striking,

fragrant, 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 specimens 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 all collections of choice plants, and every amateur

should persevere until he succeeds in establishing it.

[Illustration: FIG. 32. CYPRIPEDIUM CALCEOLUS.

(One-third natural size.)]

Under cultivation it flowers in early May, at a height of 9in. to 12in.;

the flowers are composed of a calyx of three brownish-purple sepals,

which have only the appearance of two, from the fact of the lower two

being joined or grown together, and even so combined they are somewhat

less than the upper sepal. The division may be observed at the tips,

though in some specimens 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.--narrow, 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 3in. 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 amateurs, who have otherwise proved their knowledge of the

requirements of plants by growing large and choice collections, 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 conditions 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 frequent 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 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 run in it.

Flowering period, May and June.

Daphne Cneorum.

TRAILING DAPHNE; _Common and Poetical Name_, GARLAND

FLOWER; _Nat. Ord._ THYMELACEÆ.

An alpine shrub from Austria; dwarf, evergreen, and having a 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.

[Illustration: FIG. 33. DAPHNE CNEORUM.

(One-fourth natural size; (1) flower, full size.)]

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 very pleasing appearance, being closely packed and

coral-like; when all the florets are expanded they form a half-globular

head 1in. to 1½in. 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 narrow; of a

dark green colour and much substance, being arranged in circular form on

the round and somewhat wiry, tough 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

strictly 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 particle of peat, but the roots have

been protected against drought by large stones at the base of small

rockwork. Doubtless, 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.

MEZEREON; _Old Names_, SPURGE-FLAX, GERMAN

OLIVE-SPURGE, _and_ DWARF BAY; _Nat. Ord._

THYMELACEÆ.

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 produced 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 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. From 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 ½in.

long, sessile and funnel-shaped; the limb four-cut; sweet smelling and

very durable. The berries are the size of a small pea, bright green at

first, then turning 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 taste 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.

_D. 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 uncertain.

Dentaria Digitata.

TOOTHWORT; _Nat. Ord._ CRUCIFERÆ.

A hardy, tuberous perennial, native of Switzerland, but long cultivated

in British gardens, and decidedly "old-fashioned."

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 are of singular form, almost like human

teeth, arranged 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 mid-day 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 GILLOFLOWER,"

"VIRGIN-LIKE PINKE," "MAIDENLY PINKE"; _Nat. Ord._

CARYOPHYLLACEÆ--SILENACEÆ.

A British species of perennial character, never failing to bloom for a

long period when it meets with a suitable home in our gardens--as in

positions similar to those described for _Erysimum pumilum_. 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 like 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 from the

other." It is about the most simple form of the Pink tribe. The flowers

are a little over ½in. across, of a rose colour 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. The leaves are small, scarcely 1in. 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. MULTIFLORUS; MULE PINK; _Nat. Ord._

CARYOPHYLLACEÆ.

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 Sweetwilliam 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

persistent 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 fresh 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

favourites, and hardly any garden is without some of them.

The Mule Pink is supposed to have been produced from _D. barbatus_ 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. barbatus_

or Sweetwilliam; 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 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 rockwork, where it can

hardly suffer from damp, so much disliked by all the genus; but if thus

planted, it should be where its thickly-foliaged 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 sturdy 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 nothing more useful 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.

Flowering period, May to September.

Dodecatheon Jeffreyanum.

_Nat. Ord._ PRIMULACEÆ.

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.

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 overshading foliage of other

things 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 specimens are grown

in leaf soil and loam, in a dip of small rockwork. All the kinds 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._

PRIMULACEÆ.

A distinct and pretty herbaceous 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.

[Illustration: FIG. 34. DODECATHEON MEADIA.

(One-sixth natural size.)]

The flowers much resemble the Cyclamen, but they are only 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 flowers are arranged in fine clusters on a scape more than a

foot high, each flower having a rather long, wiry, and gracefully

bending pedicel; all of them spring from one centre. The leaves are

radical, oblong, smooth, dented, and wavy, about 8in. long and nearly

3in. 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, April to June.

Dondia Epipactis.

_Syns._ ASTRANTIA EPIPACTIS _and_ HACQUETIA EPIPACTIS;

_Nat. Ord._ UMBELLIFERÆ.

This is a little gem, perhaps rather overdone with too many big names;

still, 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 specimen for pot culture

in cold frames or amongst select rock 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.

Doronicum Caucasicum.

LEOPARD'S-BANE; _Syn._ D. ORIENTALE; _Nat. Ord._

COMPOSITÆ.

The specific name denotes sufficiently whence this comes. It is hardy,

herbaceous, and perennial, and one of those plants which deserves to be

in every garden; its general 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.

[Illustration: FIG. 35. DORONICUM CAUCASICUM.

(One-third natural size.)]

The flowers, which are bright yellow, are 2½in. 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, are

of handsome forms, being variously shaped, some having long stalks,

others none; all are finely toothed and heart-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 former, it should be of a bold character, so as to harmonise. I

have observed that neither grubs nor slugs seem to meddle with this

plant, which is certainly a rare recommendation. Its propagation may be

carried out at almost any time.

Flowering period, March to July.

Echinacea Purpurea.

_Syn._ RUDBECKIA PURPUREA; PURPLE CONE-FLOWER; _Nat.

Ord._ COMPOSITÆ.

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 September, and well-established

plants will have bloom until cut off by frost.

The flowers are borne 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-like hairs, and gradually

thickening up to the involucrum of the flower. Said involucrum is

composed of numerous small leaves, a distinguishing trait from its

nearest relative genus _Rudbeckia_. The receptacle 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 off 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 _echinus_ (a hedgehog). In smelling this

flower contact should therefore be avoided; it is rather forbidding; the

disk has changeable hues of 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 drum-stick like; it is for all that a pleasing subject

when in flower; I consider the blooms too stiff for cutting, more

especially 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 may 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._ CAMPANULACEÆ.

A rare and beautiful alpine species, from Dalmatia and Switzerland. 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

difficult 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 slugs 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 before me,

and, when brought into the gaslight, a large slug 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.

[Illustration: FIG. 36. EDRAIANTHUS DALMATICUS.

(One-half natural size.)]

It is not more than 4in. high under any conditions in this climate, and

more often only 3in. in height. From the thrift-like tufts of foliage

there radiates a set of stout round flower stalks, which are 3in. 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 short

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 which

closely embraces the whole cluster; said bract springs from the much

thickened stalk and is composed of half leaf and half scale-like forms,

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 in 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

young stock should be carefully 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.

Epigæa Repens.

CREEPING _or_ GROUND LAUREL; _Nat. Ord._

ERICACEÆ.

A hardy evergreen creeper, long since imported into this country from

North America (1736), 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 difficulty experienced in obtaining it. For the last three years,

hard as the seasons have been within that time, its flowers have been

produced 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 and shorter in the tube. They are

arranged in one-sided, elongated 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 arranged 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,

shelter, moisture, and position, all seem necessary 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

instead 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

rhododendrons, 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 earthing 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 be two years, probably, before they can be safely

lifted.

Flowering period, middle of March to end of April.

Eranthis Hyemalis.

_Syn._ HELLEBORUS HYEMALIS; WINTER ACONITE; _Nat.

Ord._ RANUNCULACEÆ.

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, flowers in

winter, the 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._ ERICACEÆ.

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 beautifully 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 country 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, abundantly 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 charm of its flowers. Not long since I was struck by the

way in which the common vinca had 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 form 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 propagated, 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.

Flowering period, February to April.

Erigeron Caucasicus.

CAUCASION FLEABANE; _Nat. Ord._ COMPOSITÆ.

Herbaceous 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 _E. 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 worth 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 like miniature birds' nests formed of white

horsehairs, all arranged in the same way, _i.e._, round 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.

About the middle of August a large 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; GLAUCOUS FLEABANE, _or_

SPIKENARD; _Nat. Ord._ COMPOSITÆ.

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 considered 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 genus, 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 otherwise, as may be seen in the following

description, there exist well marked dissimilarities. But, what is of

more importance, when viewed as a garden subject or an ornamental

flower, it is one of the most useful as well as distinctly 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 appearance of being dusted

with gold; the scales, which are set on the swollen stem, are of a

substantial character; the numerous imbricate parts, which are covered

with long downy hairs pointing downwards, give the body of the flower a

somewhat 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 applied 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 spring from the parts having new foliage, and for a

portion--about half--of their length are furnished with small leaves,

which differ from those on the non-floriferous parts of the shrub,

inasmuch as they have no stalks. The leaves are produced 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.

Eryngium Giganteum.

GREAT ERYNGO; _Nat. Ord._ UMBELLIFERÆ.

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 admired. Specimens are of

various heights, according to position and nature of the soil; under

ordinary conditions they will be 2ft. to 3ft. high at the blooming

period.

[Illustration: FIG. 37. ERYNGIUM GIGANTEUM.

(One-tenth natural size.)]

As will be inferred from the order to which the Eryngium belongs, the

flowers are aggregate, of a changeable blue, and arranged in cone-shaped

heads 1½in. 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 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 foreground or in

borders.

Their culture is easy, provided the soil is of a light nature; a sunny

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.

FAIRY WALLFLOWER, _or_ DWARF TREACLE-MUSTARD; _Nat.

Ord._ CRUCIFERÆ.

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 sixty years ago, and for a long time was esteemed as a biennial,

but it is more--it is perennial and evergreen; at any rate its new

branches take root, and so its perennial quality is established. Let the

reader imagine a shrub, 3in. 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 position, shortly to be explained.

The flowers are produced in terminal racemes, are scarcely ½in. 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 arranged 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 itself to crevices and uneven

parts 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 will not bake, suits, and if mixed with a 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 grown, 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 off, 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 3in. 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._ LILIACEÆ.

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 purple, and lilac-coloured blooms. All are produced

singly on stems 4in. or 5in. long, and gracefully bending. During bright

weather the divisions of the lily-like flowers become reflexed and

otherwise show themselves to advantage. Their foliage forms a rich

setting for the flowers, being variously coloured with red, brown, 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.

I have them growing in various positions and soils, and I think they

most enjoy a vegetable mould, with full exposure to the sun, but they

should not lack moisture; they seem to increase 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.

[Illustration: FIG. 38. ERYTHRONIUM DENS-CANIS.

(Large white variety. One-half natural size.)]

Flowering period, March and April.

Euonymus Japonicus Radicans Variegata.

VARIEGATED ROOTING SPINDLE TREE; _Nat. Ord._

CELASTRACEÆ.

It is probable that the genus _Euonymus_ is more generally known than

that of _Celastrus_, from which the order takes its name; besides, the

latter 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 _E.

japonicus_, none of which, 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 unfruitfulness

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 under notice established specimens

have ever failed to show the least sign of flowering, though otherwise

well developed and of good habit. The leaves are nearly oval, ½in. to

1½in. 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

"_radicans_." The habit of the shrub, from its dense and flattened

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 treatment the foliage is kept thick to the base of

the shrub. The summer prunings may be pricked into sandy loam in a

shady part, where they will root and become useful stock for the

following spring, or strong examples may be pulled to pieces of the

desired size.

Festuca Glauca.

BLUE GRASS; _Nat. Ord._ GRAMINEÆ.

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 distinct blue colour and dense graceful habit; these

qualities, however, 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 so 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 in 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 growth 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._ LILIACEÆ.

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, and squills, being of the

same or nearly allied order, as well as of corresponding stature. Its

yellow flowers, too, highly commend 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 differs widely from the

crocus in every way.

[Illustration: FIG. 39. FRITILLARIA ARMENA.

(One-half natural size.)]

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 sometimes

more flowers are produced on the upright, smooth, leafy stem, which is

less than 6in. 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 suitable vegetation; the

dark green _Herniaria glabra_ would be perfection 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,

however, pretty certain of its hardiness, but not about the best mode of

culture and propagation.

Flowering period, April and May.

Funkia Albo-marginata.

_Common Name_, WHITE-EDGED PLANTAIN-LEAVED LILY; _Nat. Ord._

LILIACEÆ.

A hardy herbaceous perennial from Japan, of but recent introduction,

than which there are few more useful subjects to be found in our

gardens. It combines with its wealth of foliage a bold spike of pleasing

lilac 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 anything

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, 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 8in. or more in length; the flowers are numerous, 2in.

long, trumpet-shaped, drooping, and so arranged 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 8in. 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 PLANTAIN-LEAVED LILY; _Nat. Ord._ LILIACEÆ.

This is a grand plant; the lily-like flowers alone are sufficient 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 amplified by flowers and form of

foliage, the whole plant is of a rich glaucous 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 all

the species of _Funkia_. It is a comparatively 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 enormous specimen. One so treated in my garden

is 4ft. to 5ft. 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, nevertheless, 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, which cause the flowers to hang bell fashion; their

colour is a soft pale lilac, nearly white. Size, 1in. 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 8in. to 12in. long, and about half as wide, long heart-shaped,

somewhat hooded, waved, distinctly ribbed, and evenly wrinkled;

glaucous and leathery. The outer foliage is so disposed that the tips

touch the ground; it is abundantly produced, forming massive tufts. 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 dug in

and as a top dressing--with marked advantage. The natural beauty of this

subject fits it for any position--the lawn, shrubbery, borders, beds, or

rockwork can all be additionally beautified by its noble form; grown in

pots, it becomes an effective 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 _Spiræa

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 will appear fresh, like new-cut ones.

[Illustration: FIG. 40. FUNKIA SIEBOLDII.

(One-eighth natural size.)]

In the propagation of this plant certain rules should be observed,

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._

AMARYLLIDACEÆ.

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.

IMPERIAL SNOWDROP; _Nat. Ord._ AMARYLLIDACEÆ.

I have 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 obtained. With me the

bulbs seem either not to have a happy home, or they may have suffered

from the vicissitudes of transport 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.

Galanthus Nivalis.

COMMON SNOWDROP, EARLY BULBOUS VIOLET, _and_ FAIR

MAIDS OF FEBRUARY; _Nat. Ord._ AMARYLLIDACEÆ.

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 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 representative in our flora of the order _Amaryllidaceæ_.

[Illustration: FIG. 41. GALANTHUS NIVALIS.

(One-half natural size.)]

It may be useful to give a few of the better-known genera to which

_Galanthus_ is so nearly related: _Amaryllis_, _Nerine_, _Crinum_,

_Vallota_, _Pancratium_, _Alstroemeria_, 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 Linnæus. 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 "Fair 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 Linnæus) who first gave them. A

dropped name for the Snowdrop was that of "Gilloflower"; 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 ever 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; _Nat. Ord_. AMARYLLIDACAÆ.

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.

REDOUTE'S GALANTHUS; _Nat. Ord._ AMARYLLIDACEÆ.

This is by far the most distinct form, having broad grass-green foliage.

It is somewhat late in flowering (during March and April), and not so

free as others.

Galax Aphylla.

_Syn._ BLANDFORDIA CORDATA; HEART-LEAVED GALAX; _Nat.

Ord._ PYROLACEÆ.

[Illustration: FIG. 42. GALAX APHYLLA.

(One-sixth natural size; 1, natural size.)]