Hòveas, about eight species, pretty plants of New South Wales, blue pea-flowering evergreen shrubs; the finest are H. lineàris, H. rosmarinifòlia, H. longifòlia, and H. Célsii, which is the most superb, and flowers in abundance. They grow and flower freely; the pots should be drained.
Hydrángea horténsis is a well known plant, and much esteemed for its great profusion of very elegant, though monstrous, flowers. They are naturally of a rose colour, but under certain circumstances of culture they become blue. If grown in brown loam with a little sand, they will preserve their original colour; but if grown in swamp earth with a little mould of decayed leaves, they will become blue. The swamp earth and vegetable mould being more combined with aluminous salt than brown loam, is the cause of the change; and, when first found out, (which was merely by chance,) was thought a great wonder. It must have a very plentiful supply of water when in flower, which is produced on the shoots of the previous year. They will neither grow nor flower well if they are not kept constantly in the shade. When kept in the sun, the foliage is very brown; and by being neglected in watering, we have seen the flowers completely scourged. Being tolerably hardy, when the winters are mild, by a little protection in the open air, they will flower profusely; the flowers will be very large, and in bloom from June to October. They are deciduous, soft wooded shrubs.
Hypéricums, St. John's wort, about twenty species. A few of them are very showy, and with few exceptions have yellow flowers. H. monógynum, H. balearicum, H. floribúndum, H. canariénse, H. ægyptìacum, and H. cochinchinense, which has scarlet flowers, are amongst the best, and all of them flower freely; five petals, filaments many in three or five parcels. They are all of very easy cultivation, and bloom generally from April to September.
Ilex, Holly, of I. aquifòlium. There are above one hundred species of them in cultivation in Europe, differing in variegation, margin, shape, and size of the leaves; some are only prickly on the margin of the foliage, others prickly over all the surface. In Europe they are all hardy, but with us few or none of the varieties are so. If they become acclimated, they will be a great ornament to our gardens, being all low evergreen shrubs. The most common and conspicuous varieties are the hedgehog, striped hedgehog, white edged, gold edged, and painted; the flowers are white and small, berries yellow or red; they do not agree with exposure to the sun. J. Cassíne and J. vomitòria have very bitter leaves, and, though natives of Carolina, we have to give them the protection of a Green-house. It is said that at certain seasons of the year the Indians make a strong decoction of the leaves, which makes them vomit freely, and after drinking and vomiting for a few days, they consider themselves sufficiently purified.
Illíciums, Aniseed-tree, three species. I. floridànum, has very sweet-scented, double purple flowers, and the plant grows freely and systematically if properly treated, and deserves the attention of the admirers of flowers. I. parviflòrum has small yellow flowers; I. anisàtum is so very like I. parviflòrum in every respect, as to make us conclude they are the same, were I. anisátum not a native of China, and the other two natives of Florida. When the leaves and capsules of either of them are rubbed, they have a very strong smell of anise;—they grow very freely.
Indigófera; Indigo-tree, about twenty species, belong to the Green-house, and are chiefly pretty free flowering shrubs. I. denudàta, I. amæna, I. austràlis, I. angulàta, I. càndicans, and I. filifòlia, are very fine; flowers papilionaceous, in long panicles; colour various, red, blue, yellow, and pink.
Isopògons, about ten species of Pròtea-like plants, all natives of New Holland. They are very stiff shrubs, with leaves very much divided, and cone-like flowers at the extremity of the shoots. I. formòsus, I. anemonifòlius, I. attenuàtis, and I. polycéphalis, are the finest; flowers are straw, lilac, white, and yellow coloured; the pots must be well drained, and the plants not over-crowded.
Justícias. Only a few of these belong to the Green-house, and are very simple looking flowers. The most beautiful of them belong to the Hot-house. J. nìgricans, small striped flower; J. orchioídes and J. Adhátoda, Malanut, are the only ones that are worth observation, and are very easily cultivated. J. Adhátoda has good looking foliage, but does not flower until the plant becomes large; colour white and light purple.
Jacksònias. A genus consisting of five species. The foliage is varied, and all natives of New South Wales. J. scopària is similar to a plant in our collections, called Vimenària denudata. J. hórrida, and J. reticulàta, are the finest; the small flowers come out of the young shoots, are yellow and papilionaceous; the pots should be well drained.
Kennèdias, about nine species, all evergreen climbers, of the easiest culture, and flower abundantly. K. monophylla, blue flowered, and K. rubicúnda, crimson flowered, are common in our collections. K. prostràta, (once Glycine coccínea) one-flowered scarlet, and K. coccínea, many flowered scarlet, are very pretty. K. Comptoniàna has splendid purple flowers, and K. inophylla is thought the most superb. It is very rare, and we have not seen it flower. They are large purple. The pots should be well drained; and if the plants are much fostered, they will not flower so well; flowers are either in racemose spikes, or solitary, which is rather too much distinction for the same genus.
Lambértias, four species of very fine plants, natives of New Holland. L. formòsa is the finest of the genus that we have seen; flowers large and of a splendid rose colour. L. echinàta is said to be finer, but has not flowered in cultivation. L. uniflòra has single red flowers, and L. inérmis orange coloured. They are rare plants in the collections on this side of the Atlantic. Drain the pots well; the foliage is narrow, and of a hard dry nature.
Lasiopètalums, only two species. There were a few more, but they are now Thomàsias, plants of no merit whatever, in regard to flower; foliage three lobed, small, rough, and rusty-like. Thomàsia solanàcea and T. quereifòlia, are the best species; foliage of the former is large, cordate, and deep indented; they are all of the easiest culture.
Lavándulas, Lavender, about seven species belong to the Green-house, and a few of them very pretty soft-wooded, half shrubby plants, and if touched, are highly scented. L. dentàta has narrow serrated foliage, very neat. L. formòsa and L. pinnàta are desirable; blue flowers on a long spike; should be kept near the glass; they are of the easiest culture.
Laúrus. A few species are Green-house plants. This genus has been divided to Cinnamòmum; still there are a few celebrated plants in the original. L. nòbilis, sweet bay, though hardy, is kept under protection. It will bear the winter with a little straw covering, notwithstanding there should be a plant kept in the house in case of accident by frost or otherwise; there is a variegated variety of it. L. índica, royal bay, L. fœtens, L. aggregàta, and L. glúaca, are favourites. There is a species known in our collections as L. scábra. The Camphire tree, known as L. camphòra, is Cinnamòmum camphòra; the wood, leaves, and roots of this tree have a very strong odour of camphire. It is obtained by distillation from the roots and small branches, which are cut into chips, and put into a net suspended within an iron pot, the bottom of which is covered with water, having an earthen head fitted in it; heat is then applied, and the steam of the boiling water acting upon the contents of the net, elevates the camphire into the capital, where it concretes on the straws, with which this part of the apparatus is lined. They are all fine evergreens, (which the name denotes,) and easily cultivated,
Lìnums, Flax, two or three species are very fine, and flower freely. L. trigynum has large yellow flowers in clusters, and L. ascyrifôlium, whose flowers are large, blue, and white, and in long spikes. The shape of them is very like the flower vulgarly called Morning-glory.
Lobèlias. Several of them when well treated, form most magnificent flowering plants; they are principally herbaceous. L. Tùpa has the largest foliage, and fine scarlet flowers. L. speciôsa, flowers light purple; L. fúlgens, crimson flowers; L. spléndens, scarlet flowers. The three last are of the same habit; the colours brilliant; and to grow them well, they should be divided, (if there are several shoots arising,) when they begin to grow, putting them first into four inch pots, and shifting them frequently, having them to flower in those of nine or ten inches, which will be about the end of June, or first of July, and they will continue until October. The pots must be always kept in pans or saucers filled with water; likewise give plenty to the surface of the earth, which is to be done during their time of growth and flowering. If this is attended to, they will produce flower stalks from four to six feet in height, and covered with branches and spikes of flowers from bottom to top. The corolla is pentapetalous, three down and two up; they require a little shade. The genus consists of about eighty species; seventy of them are exotics; many of them natives of the Cape of Good Hope, with little flowers of brilliant colours. L. cærùlea, L. Thunbérgii, L. corymbôsa, L. pyramidàlis, and L. ilicifòlia, are very fine species, of weak growth, but flower freely.
Lomàtias, about six species; flowers are white or straw colour, and similar to Grevíllea, but the foliage more handsome.
Lophospérmum scándens. This is a magnificent new climbing soft wooded shrub, with purple, campanulate flowers, which are produced from the axils on the young wood; they bloom from May to September; leaves large, cordate, and tomentose; grows rapidly, and flowers abundantly.
Lachnæas, about five species, remarkable for their downy heads of white flowers; leaves small, ovate, lanceolate. L. glaùca, L. conglomeràta, and L. eriocéphala, are the best species. The pots must be well drained, and in summer the plants protected from the sun.
Leonòtis, Lion's-ear, four species. They have very fine scarlet tubular flowers, orifice-toothed. They come out in large whorls, and look elegant; but neither plant nor foliage has an agreeable appearance. They are of the easiest culture. L. intermédia, and L. Leonùrus, are the best flowering species.
Leucospérmums, about eighteen species, of Proteacious plants, chiefly low growing, and are mostly downy or hairy; flowers yellow, in terminale heads. L. formósum, L. grandiflòrum, L. tomentósum, and L. candicans, rose-scented. These are fine species. For treatment, see Pròteas.
Lipàrias, about five species, much esteemed for their beauty of foliage; leaves ovate, lanceolate, downy or woolly; flowers yellow, leguminose, and capitate. L. sphærica, L. tomentósa, L. villósa, and L. serícea, are the finest. L. vistìta and L. villósa are the same, although put in many catalogues as different species. None of them ought to be much watered over the foliage, as it adheres to the down, and causes the young shoots to damp off. Drain the pots well, and keep the plants in an airy situation.
Lysinèmas, four species, closely allied to Epácris. In every respect treatment the same. L. pentapítalum, L. conspicum, and L. ròseum, are the best; the flowers of the two former are white. L. silaifòlia has leaves bipinnatifid and smooth, segments wedge-shaped and cut. L. dentàta and L. ilicifòlia are the finest; the pots should be drained.
Lonícera japónica. There is a plant in our collections known by that name, which is now Nintooa longiflàra; flowers of a straw colour, but come out white. It has been known to withstand the winter, but does not flower, and is frequently killed entirely.
Lychnis coroàta, is an esteemed Chinese plant; flowers-in abundance, pentapetalous, large, and a little indented at the edges; colour a red-like orange; flowers terminale and axillary. The roots must be divided every spring, or they will dwindle away to nothing. Perhaps a good method of treatment would be to divide the roots, and plant them in the garden; they would flower well, and could be lifted in the fall, and put under protection. We have no doubt that it may become acclimated. If not done so, plant them in four inch pots, and repot them into those of six inch in May. Do not expose them while in flower to the mid-day sun, for it will deteriorate the fine colour.
Leptospérmums, about thirty species, all pretty New Holland evergreen dwarf shrubs, with small white flowers. L. baccàtum, L. péndulum, L. juníperinum, L. ovátum, L. stellàtum, L. grandiflórum, and L. scopàrium, are the best of the species. The latter was used as tea by Capt. Cook's ship's crew. It is an agreeable bitter, with a pleasant flavour, when fresh. When young plants are growing, they ought to be frequently topped to make them bushy, and kept in an airy situation, or they will be drawn and unsightly. They are of very easy culture.
Leucadéndrons, Silver tree, above forty species, all natives of Cape of Good Hope. They are evergreens with handsome, silvery-like foliage. L. argentéum (once Pròtea argentéa) is a great beauty; foliage white, lanceolate, and silky. It is a plant that has been long in cultivation, greatly admired, and much sought for, and is the finest of the genus. L. squarròsum, L. stellàtum, (once Pròtea stellaris) L. tórtum, L. servíceum, L. margìnàtum, and L. plumôsum (once P. parviflòra) are all fine species. The pots must be well drained, and the plants never over-watered. They are very desirable in collections for their beauty of foliage; flowers similar to Pròtea.
Magnòlias. There are four species that require the protection of our Green-houses; all the others are hardy. M. fuscàta, and M. annonæfòlia, are very similar in foliage and flower: the young branches and leaves of M. fuscàta is covered with a brown, rusty-like down; the other by some is considered merely a variety; flowers small, brown, and very sweet-scented. M. pùmila is very dwarf growing; leaves large and netted; flowers semi-double, white, pendant, and fragrant. They are natives of China. We have several others from the east, but being deciduous are perfectly hardy. M. odoratíssima, now Talàuma Candólii, a native of the Island of Java, and said to be very odoriferous, but is very rare even in Europe; said to have a straw coloured flower. M. conspícua is desirable to have in the Green-house, if enarched on a stock of M. purpùrea, which will always keep it dwarf, and it will flower magnificently in February and March.
Melalèucas, above thirty species, and a beautiful genus of New Holland plants, of easy culture; flowers come out of the wood like fringes. M. elíptica, M. fúlgens, scarlet, M. decussàta, M. hypericifòlia, M. squarròsa, M. linarifòlia, M. incana, M. tetragònia, M. thymifòlia, are all very fine species, and flower freely if they have been grown from cuttings; the singularity of flower and diversity of foliage make them generally thought of.
Maurándias, three species, of very pretty climbing Green-house plants, flowering from March to October. M. Barclàyana has splendid flowers, large, light blue, campanulate, and very abundant. M. semperflòrens has rose coloured flowers, of the same character. They will flower best if planted in the ground.
Myrsínes, Cape Myrtle, dwarf cape evergreen shrubs covered with small flowers from March to May. M. retùsa has green and purple flowers; M. rotundifòlia, flowers white and purple. They will grow in any situation, and are of easy culture.
Méspilus japónica. The plant, known under that name, is now Eriabòtrya japónica, Loquat, is a fine plant with large lanceolate, distantly serrated leaves, white underneath; small white flowers on a racemose spike, and produces a fruit about the size of a walnut, of a fine yellow blush colour, and of delicious flavour. If it flowers in the fall, it will require the heat of a Hot-house to ripen the fruit. It is of very easy culture, and its noble aspect is never passed unobserved.
Metrosidèros, about five species. Many have been added to Callistèmon. M. flòrida, M. umbellata, and M. angustifòlia, are the best species. C. salígnum, C. lanceolàtum, variety semperiflòrens, C. glaùcum, once M. speciòsa, has splendid scarlet flowers and C. formòsum; these are all beautiful plants, with scarlet flowers. Other two beautiful species with white flowers have been given to Angóphora. A. cordifòlia, once M. híspida, and A. lanceolàta, once M. costàta; these genera are very easily distinguished from any other Australasian shrubs, by the peculiar character of having both sides of the leaves alike. The flowers consist of stamens, stiles, and anthers, coming in hundreds out of the young wood for the length of three or four inches, forming a dense cone crowned with a small twig; leaving capsules in the wood, which will keep their seeds perfect for a great number of years. They grow freely, and the pots should be well drained.
Myrtus, Myrtle, is a well known and popular shrub, especially the common varieties; and was a great favourite, (even to adoration,) among the ancients. It was the mark of authority for Athenian rulers, and is amongst the moderns an emblem of pre-eminence. They are elegant evergreen shrubs, with an agreeable odour. M. commùnis multipléx, double flowering, is a very neat shrub, and flowers abundantly. M. commùnis leucocárpa, White-fruited Myrtle, is quite unique, when the berries are on it. M. itálica variagáta, striped leaved; M. itálica maculàta, blotch leaved, are very fine shrubs; and M. tomentòsa, Chinese Myrtle, is a magnificent erect growing shrub, with a white down over the foliage; the flowers are the largest of the genus. When they first expand, they are white, and afterwards change to purple, so that there are beautiful flowers of several shades of colour on the plant. We have not the smallest doubt but this species will become in many instances as plentiful as the common myrtle. It is more easily grown, but cannot stand much exposure to the sun in summer. M. tenuifòlia is a very fine plant, and a native of New South Wales. Myrtles in general should be sprinkled with water in the evenings, to keep off mildew and red spider.
Nandìna doméstica, the only species, and a popular shrub in the gardens of Japan, where it is called Nandin. It has supra-decompound leaves, with entire lanceolate leaflets, a kind of foliage that is very rare; the flowers are small, whitish green, in panicles, succeeded by berries of the size of a pea; drain the pots well.
Nèrium, (Oleander,) is a genus of beautiful erect growing evergreen shrubs, of the easiest culture, and abundant in flower. N. oleánder is the common rose coloured single flowering species, from which six varieties have originated. At present the most popular is N. oleánder splèndens, which has a double rose coloured flower. There is one that has got in our collections as double white which is only semi-double. We have seen a white, variety as double as N. o. splèndens, and have no doubt but in a few years it will be plentiful. N. oleánder elegantìssimum, a most beautiful plant, with deep silver-edged foliage; and the young wood is striped white and green. We are not positive in respect to the beauty of its flowers, but it has a high character. We have heard of a double-yellow variety, but the reports are not properly authenticated; and we doubt it very much. There are likewise single yellow, single white, and single blotched varieties of N. oleánder. They are subject to the small white scaly insect, and should be frequently washed, as has been directed, to keep it off.
Oleas, Olive, about twelve species and varieties. O. Europæa longifòlia, is the species that is cultivated to such an extent in the south of France, and Italy. O. Europæa latifòlia is chiefly cultivated in Spain. The fruit is larger than that of Italy, but the oil is not so pleasant, which is obtained by crushing the fruit to a paste, and pressing it through a woollen bag, adding hot water as long as any oil is yielded. The oil is then skimmed off the water, and put into barrels, bottles, &c. for use. The tree seldom exceeds thirty feet, and is a branchy glaucous evergreen, and said to be of great longevity. Some plantations at Turin in Italy are supposed to have existed from the time of Pliny. It frequently flowers in our collections, but seldom carries fruit; flowers white, in small racemose axillary spikes. O. cupénsis has a thick large oblong foliage; flowers white, in large terminale panicles. O. verrucòsa, foliage flat, lanceolate, and white beneath, branches curiously warted. O. fragráns, foliage and blossoms are both highly odoriferous; the plant is much esteemed in China, and is said to be used to adulterate and flavour teas. Leaves are elliptic, lanceolate, and a little serrated; flowers white in lateral bunches. It is subject to the small, white scaly insect, and ought to be carefully kept from them by washing. O. paniculata is a fine species. They are all very easily cultivated.
Oxylòbiums, seven species, plants very similar to Callistachys, with ovate, cordate, light coloured, pubescent foliage, with papilionaceous flowers. O. obtusifòlium has scarlet flowers; O. retùsum, orange flowers; and O. ellípticum, yellow flowers. They grow freely, and should be well drained; flower from May to August.
Pelargòniums, Stork's Bill. This genus, so universally known amongst us as Gerànium, from which it was separated many years ago, is a family of great extent and variety, for which we are principally indebted to the Cape of Good Hope. By cultivation from seed many hundred beautiful species and well marked varieties have been obtained. There are about five hundred species, with upwards of two hundred varieties. They are of every character, colour and shade, of the most vivid description. The easy cultivation of the Pelargònium tribe, or Geràniums, as they are commonly called, has rendered them very popular; also the agreeableness of scent and fragrance of which many of them are possessed, makes them favourites. If their flowering season was of longer duration, the varieties and species would be quite indispensable in collections; but there is every appearance that in a few years the aspect of them will be changed. The present prevailing colour of the flower, (which has five petals, three hanging and two erect, the erect petals being always of the darkest shade,) is a white or pink ground, with lilac, purple, or pink stripes, flakes, or spots, and blooms from April to June; though they bloom profusely in large bunches, the time is limited. The species and varieties that have a red ground, with black or dark crimson stripes or spots, generally bloom during the whole summer. These, though scarce in the collections of the country, will in a few years root out those whose flowers are of such short duration, and by their blooms charm us half of the year.
The tuberous and fleshy stemmed species are far more interesting to the discriminating inquirer than the common kinds. Their habit and constitution are so peculiar, that we have frequently wondered that they have not been separated into distinct genera. The cultivation of them is more difficult, water being very prejudicial to them when they are inactive. When they are well managed, they flower beautifully, and the colours are very superior and peculiar, having frequently bright green and purple in the same flower. If some of the colours of these could be compounded with the large flowering kinds, those hybridised would be magnificent.
The best method to adopt in impregnating these, is to choose the female, one that has large flowers, of easy cultivation, and as nearly allied in character and other habits as possible. When a flower of the intended female is newly expanded, take a pair of very fine pointed scissors, and cut off the anthers before the pollen expands; then as soon as the summit of the stile divides, apply the pollen taken from the anthers of the intended male plant on a very fine camel hair pencil, or cut out the stigma entirely, and place the anther on the summit of the stile, which, if correctly done, will have the desired effect. As soon as the seed is ripe, sow it in light sandy soil; and when it has come up, take care not to over-water the soil, which would cause them to damp off. When they are about one inch high, put them into small pots, and treat as the other varieties. Have them all distinctly marked until they flower, which will be in the second year from the time of sowing.
Phórmium tènax, New Zealand flax lily, the only species; foliage resembling an Iris, and very thready. In New Zealand and Norfolk Island, the natives manufacture from this plant a kind of stuff like coarse linen, cordage, &c.; the plant is very hardy, and we would be no way surprised to see it stand the severity of our winters. It bears exposure to the open air in Europe in the 56th degree of north latitude. The flowers are said to be yellow and lily-like; of the easiest culture.
Phylicas, above twenty-five species. Several of them are very pretty growing evergreen shrubs, and of easy culture. P. horizontàlis, P. squarròsa, P. imbricàta, P. myrtifòlia, P. callòsa, P. bícolor, and P. ericoídes, are all neat growing; flowers small, white, in heads; drain the pots well, and keep them in an airy situation. The foliage of several of the species is downy.
Pimèleas, about fourteen species. Most of them are highly esteemed, and are not often seen in our collections. P. decussàta is the finest of the genus, both in foliage and flowers, which are red, and in large terminale clusters; P. rôsea, P. linifòlia, white, P. spicàta, and P. drupàcea, are all fine species. The latter has the largest foliage, which is ovate and accuminate; berry-bearing. They should be well drained. They are very small evergreen shrubs, with white or red flowers.
Pittósporums, about nine species, with handsome foliage, and small white flowers in clusters, which are fragrant. P. Tobìra is a native of China, and nearly hardy; leaves lucid, obovate, obtuse, and smooth. P. undulàtum, P. coriàceum, P. revolùtum, P. fúlvum, and P. ferrugíneum, are very ornamental evergreens, and will grow with the most simple treatment.
Platylòbiums, Flat Pea, four species of fine free flowering plants; flowers leguminose; colour yellow. P. formòsum, P. oràtum, and P. triangulàre, are the best; the foliage of the two former is cordate, ovate; the latter hastate, with spiny angles.
Pistàcias, seven species of trees, principally of the south of Europe. There is nothing particular in their appearance, except their productions in their native country. P. terebínthus is deciduous, and produces the Cyprus turpentine. P. lentíscus is the true mastich tree, which is obtained by cutting transverse incisions in the bark. P. vèra and P. reticulàta are good species; leaves pinnated; leaflets ovate, lanceolate; easily cultivated.
Plumbàgos, Lead-wort. There are only two species of any consequence belonging to the Green-house, P. trístis and P. capénsis. The former is a shy flowerer, but the latter flowers freely; colour beautiful light blue, and flowers in spikes; foliage oblong, entire, and a little glaucous; of very easy culture, and continues in bloom a considerable time.
Psoràleas, above forty species. A few of them are worthy of cultivation, P. odoratíssima, P. spicàta, P. aculeàta, P. argéntea, and P. tomentòsa. They have all blue flowers, and leguminose. They are chiefly low shrubs; and will flower and grow freely; the pots require draining.
Podalyrias, about fourteen species of pretty Cape shrubs; foliage oblong, obovate, and silky-like; the flowers leguminose; colour blue or pink. P. serícea, P. styracifòlia, P. corúscans, P. argéntea, P. liparioídes, and P. subbiflòra, are the finest and most distinct species, and flower abundantly.
Petsoónias, about sixteen species of dwarf evergreen shrubs; leaves oblong, or lanceolate, hairy, or downy; flowers axillary and solitary; the pots should be well drained, and the plants in summer protected from the sun. P. hirsùta, P. móllis, P. teretifòlia, and P. lùcida, are the most distinct, and grow freely.
Pròteas, about forty-four species. The foliage of this genus is very diversified; flowers very large, terminale; stamens protected by an involucrum; many-leaved and imbricated; which is very persistent. P. cynaroídes has the largest flower, which is purple, green, and red. P. speciòsa, P. umbonàlis, once P. longifòlia, P. melaleùca, P. grandiflòra, P. coccínea, P. cenocárpa, P. pállens, P. formòsa, P. magnífica, P. speciòsa rúbra, and P. mellífera, will afford a very good variety. It is almost impossible to describe their true colour, it being so various; red, white, straw, brown, green, and purple, are most predominant, and frequently to be seen in the same flower; the plants must be well drained; and during warm weather be careful that they are not neglected in water, for if they are suffered to droop, they seldom recover. For this reason the pots ought not to stand in the strong sun; the plants can bear it, but to the roots it is injurious.
Pultenæas, about forty species, pretty little dwarf growing shrubs of New South Wales; flowers small, leguminose, all yellow, with a little red outside of the petals. P. villòsa, P. obcordàta, P. argéntea, P. plumòsa, P. fléxilis, shining leaved, fragrant; P. cándida, and P. strìcta, are all fine species, and esteemed in collections. The leaves are all small; they require an airy exposure, and the pots drained.
Rhododéndrons (Rose tree), a magnificent genus, and contains some of the most superb and gigantic plants that adorn the Green-house. All the Azàleas (except A. procúmbens) both Chinese and American, have been arranged under this genus. At present the most admired is R. arbòreum, with varieties. R. arbòreum has deep scarlet flowers, with dark spots and flakes campanulated, and in large clusters; leaves lanceolate, acute, rough, and silvery beneath. R. arbòreum albúm is very rare. R. arbòreum supérbum, flowers same shape as arbòreum, colour bright scarlet; foliage one third larger, but not silvery beneath; grows freely, and generally thought the finest variety. R. arbòrea álte-Clàrance is also very superb. There are several other varieties of minor note. A Green-house without some of the scarlet varieties of that plant, is deficient of a flower whose beauty and grandeur are beyond the highest imagination. It is a native of Nepaul in India, and when found by Dr. Wallach awakened the ambition of every cultivator and connoisseur in Europe. There are several other species brought from that country lately, but none of them has yet flowered. They are highly valued from the productions of the above; the species are R. campanulàtum, R. anthopògon, and R. cinnamòmeum. This is named from the colour of the leaves, which are very peculiar and very handsome; the flowers are said to be rose-coloured. These three last cannot be purchased under an immense price; the others have been rarely seen in our collections, but another year or two will make them more plentiful. Their beauty of flower is beyond description. The pots should be well drained, and if they are large, put several pieces of sandy stones or potshreds around the side, for the fine fibres delight to twine about such, being mountainous plants.
Roéllas, pretty leafy shrubs, with blue terminale funnel-shaped flowers, lip-spreading; R. cilliàta, R. spicàta, and R. pedunculàta, are the finest of the genus. The pots must be well drained, and care taken that they are not over-watered.
Sálvia (Sage), is an extensive genus of soft-wooded, shrubby, or herbaceous plants; very few of them do well in the Green-house, and many of them are very trifling, having no other attraction than the flower, and those of the tender species, when compared with S. élegans, S. spléndens, S. cærúlea, and S. coccìnea, (which in artificial climates constitute the standard of the genus,) are not worth cultivation. These last mentioned, if kept in the Green-house, will merely keep in life, but a situation in the Hot-house would cause them to flower frequently. The best method to adopt with the summer flowering kinds, is to plant them in the garden in May; they will grow strong and flower abundantly, and in the fall they can be lifted, and preserved during winter in pots. They neither grow nor flower so well as when planted out, and even a slip planted in the ground in moist weather will root in a few days, grow, and flower in a few weeks. S. spléndens is the best to select for the purpose. S. aùrea, S. paniculàta, and S. índica, are fine species. The latter is white and blue, with large leaves; flowers monopetalous, and irregular; colour generally red or blue in spiked whorls. All will grow easily with encouragement.
Senècios. Some species of this genus are pestiferous weeds all over the world. They are found near the limits of perpetual snow, where neither tree nor shrub is able to rear its head. Yet there are three species that are neat little plants, and are worthy of a situation, viz. S. grandiflòrus, S. venústus, and S. cineráscens, with the double white and red variety of S. élegans. The two last varieties are free flowering, but if allowed to grow several years, they become unsightly. Being very easily propagated, a few cuttings of them should be put in, in September, and in two weeks they will strike root, when they may be put in pots to keep through the winter, and then planted in the garden, continuing to renew them. The other mentioned species should be frequently done the same way. Do not keep them damp during winter, or they will rot off. Keep them in an airy exposure.
Schótias, a beautiful genus of six species, which will require the warmest part of the Green-house to keep them. The foliage is handsome; leaves compound: leaflets oval-lanceolate, and in pairs from six to ten; S. speciòsa, crimson, flowers nearly papilionaceous, and in bunches, the most superb of the genus. S. alàta, S. latifòlia, once Omphalòbium Schótia, and S. tamarindifólia, are the finest; the flowers of the others are red. The pots require to be drained, and the plants protected from the hot sun.
Swainsònas, four species of free flowering, soft wooded shrubs, natives of New South Wales. S. galigifòlia, S. coronillæfòlia, and S. astragalifòlia, are red, purple, and white; leguminose flowers in spikes from the axils, are of easy culture, and deserving of a situation; the foliage is pinnate; leaflets ovate, acute.
Scòttias, three species of valuable plants; S. dentàta, with scarlet leguminose blossoms; leaves opposite, ovate, accuminate, serrate; S. angustifòlia has brown flowers; S. trapezifòrmus, leaves ovate, acute, serrulate. We do not know the colour of its flowers; the pots must be well drained, and the plants kept in the warmest part of the Green-house, and near the light.
Sparrmánnias, are strong growing Green-house shrubs. S. africàna, is a plant very common in our collections, with large three lobed cordate leaves, hairs on both sides; flowers from March to July. S. rugósa. The leaves are rugged; flowers of both are white, in a kind of corymb, supported by a long footstalk; buds drooping, flowers erect. There is a plant known in our collections, as the free-flowering Sparrmánnia, (which is Entèlia arboréscens,) and is easily distinguished from Sparrmánnia by the leaves being cordate, accuminate, and otherwise, by all its filaments being fertile, and the flowers more branching, and blooming from November to June, profusely; very easily cultivated, and desirable.
Sphærolòbiums, only two species of leafless plants, with yellow and red leguminose flowers, which proceed from the young shoots. S. vimíneum and S. médium. They flower freely, and are easily cultivated. The old wood should be frequently cut out where it is practicable. Drain the pots.
Sprengélia incarnàta,, the only species, a very pretty plant, allied to Epàcris; small foliage, long, accuminate; flowers small, pink, bearded, and in close spikes; grows freely, delighting in shade. The pots must be well drained, and the plants, when dormant, watered sparingly, for if they get sodden about the roots, they very seldom recover.
Stylidíums, six species of pretty litte plants, with small linear leaves, and remarkable for the singular elasticity of the style or column, which, when the flower is newly expanded, lays to one side, and on being touched with a pin starts with violence to the opposite side. S. graminifòlium, S. fruticòsum, S. laricifòlium, and S. adnàtum, are all free flowering; flowers in spikes, very small; colour light and dark pink; blooms from April to July. S. adnàtum is half herbaceous, and should, when growing, be kept nigh the glass, or it will be drawn, and the flowers become of a pale colour. They are all of easy cultivation.
Styphèlias, seven species of very showy flowers, with mucronate leaves; corolla in a long tubular form, having several bundles of hairs in it; segments reflex and bearded. S. tubiflòra, crimson, S. triflòra, crimson and green; S. adscéndens, and S. longifòlia, are beautiful species. They grow freely, and should be well drained, as too much water is very hurtful to them. In summer they ought not to be much exposed to the hot sun, or the foliage will become brown.
Salpiglóssis, four species of fine herbaceous Green-house plants, natives of Chili. The flowers are tubular and campanulate. S. pícta, flowers white and blue painted; S. atropurpùrea, flowers dark purple, and S. isnuàta, flowers crimson, are superb, and if planted in the garden during summer will flower profusely. They must be lifted in October, and taken under protection.
Tagètes lùcida is found in many of our collections. The leaves are simple, oblong, and finely serrated. When rubbed by the hand, they have an agreeable fragrance; the flowers are syngenesious, small, and in terminale bunches. It is herbaceous; and when about an inch grown should be divided and potted into five inch pots. Repot it again about the first of June. It keeps in flower from July to November.
Testudinària, Elephant's foot, or Hottentot's bread, two species remarkable for their appearance. The root or bulb, if it may be so called, is of a conical shape, and divided into transverse sections. Those of one foot diameter are computed to be 150 years of age. It is a climbing herbaceous plant, with entire reniforme leaves of no beauty; flowers small; colour green. The pots must be well drained, for when the plant is inactive it is in danger of suffering from moisture, and ought not to get any water. T. Elephántiphes and T. montàna are the species, natives of the Cape of Good Hope, and require the warmest part of the house.
Táxus nucífera, is the only species that requires protection, and bears a small acorn; flowers are trifling; an evergreen, with ovate, lanceolate foliage, thickly set on the wood; will grow in any situation. There is a plant in our collections known as T. chinénsis or T. elongáta, which is Podocárpus elongàtus. It has lanceolate leaves, erect growing, and very hardy; flowers mœonacious, and of no estimation except to the curious.
Telopèa speciosíssimus, is the only species, and was once called Embóthrium speciosíssimus. It is now called Telopèa in allusion to the brilliant crimson flowers, which from their great size are seen at a large distance, and which render it one of the most conspicuous productions of New South Wales. The leaves are oblong, deeply toothed, veiny, and smooth; wood strong; flower ovate, connate, and terminale, and of considerable duration. There ought to be a specimen of it in every collection. The pots must be well drained, and the plant in the extreme heat of summer not too much exposed to the sun.
Templetònia, a very pretty genus, containing only two species. T. retùsa is an erect growing shrub, with wedge-shaped green leaves. T. gláuca, leaves glacuous, blunt, and a little apiculate; flowers of both scarlet. They are leguminose plants of free growth, and should be well drained; blooming from April to June.
Tristànias, seven species of evergreen shrubs. Several of them require to be very large before they flower. T. neriifòlia is a very neat little plant, and flowers abundantly; colour yellow; shape star-like, and in clusters; leaves lanceolate and opposite. T. conférta, white flowers in spikes, leaves alternate. T. suavèolens, sweet-scented; flowers yellow. They are all of very easy culture.
Verbénas. A few of these are showy, herbaceous, Green-house plants. V. chamædryfòlia, lately known as V. Melíndres, is a beautiful plant of a procumbent habit; flowers brilliant scarlet, in glomerated heads from the axils of the young shoots; blooming from April to October. A large plant will appear as a solid mass of scarlet. V. lambértii and V. pulchélla are also very pretty; colour, rose and lilac. A very good method of treating these plants, is, to plant them in the garden in April; and give them copious waterings in dry weather, and they will flower profusely, lifting some of the plants before frost, to preserve them during winter. They ought to be allowed to run according to their nature; for if tied up, they will not do so well, being in that way too much exposed. There is a plant known in our collections as Verbéna triphylla, which is Aloysia citriodòra. The flowers are in long spikes, very small, and pale purple. The celebrity of the plant is in the foliage, which is linear, lanceolate, ternate, and it has the most agreeable fragrance in the vegetable world. It is of very easy culture, and has been known to survive the winter, in open air, in Philadelphia. It is deciduous, and would do to plant in the garden during summer, lifting it again before frost, and putting it under protection through winter. When large before it begins to grow, in spring cut it into a neat shape or form.
Vibúrnums. A few of these are very ornamental evergreen shrubs, and almost hardy. V. tìnus is the well known Laurestine, (or what is commonly called Laurestinus,) is of the easiest culture; flowers small white, and in large flattened panicles; blooming from February to May, and universally esteemed. It will stand the winter by a little protection, but the flower buds being formed in the fall, the intense frost destroys them; consequently, it will not flower except by the buds, which sometimes form early in summer. V. lùcidum is a good species, and superior in flower and foliage to the former, but does not flower so freely, when the plants are small. When they grow large, they flower profusely. There is a desirable variegated variety. V. odoratíssimum has smooth evergreen, oblong, elliptic, distantly toothed, leaves, and frequently a stripe in them, is sweet-scented, and a free flowerer. V. hirsútum has flowers similar to the above; foliage ovate, with rough brown hairs on both sides, and very characteristic. V. stríctum variagàtum is a very fine variety, and upright growing. These plants are all very desirable, blooming early in spring, and continuing for several months; all easily cultivated.
Viminària denudàta, the only species. This plant is remarkable for its twiggy appearance, but it has no foliage, except when growing from seed. It has at the extremity of the twigs or shoots, an ovate, lanceolate, leaf, disappearing when the plant grows old; the flowers are small, yellow, coming out of the young shoots, to the astonishment of the beholder. It grows freely.
Virgília capènsis is a beautiful cape shrub, with a compound leaf of twenty-five leaflets, ovate, lanceolate, edges hairy; flowers in spikes at the axils; colour blue and leguminose. The pots require to be well drained, and the plants protected from the sun.
Volkamèria japónica. There is a plant known in our collections under that name, which is Clerodéndron fràgrans múltiplex. It keeps in a good Green-house, and flowers well, frequently blooming during winter, and if planted in the garden during summer, will flower superbly. The flowers have a delicious fragrance; but if the foliage is rubbed with the hand, the smell is not so pleasant. The leaves are large, round, ovate, and tomentose; flowers corymbose, compact, and terminale. There are several fine plants in Clerodéndron belonging to the Hot-house. This plant will not bear much fumigation.
Witsènias, four species. W. corymbòsa is a plant that has stood in high estimation ever since it was known, but unfortunately there is a very inferior plant, Aristèa cyànea, got into our collections under that name. The panicles of W. corymbòsa is quite smooth; those of Aristèa are hairy, which is itself sufficient to detect them; but otherwise the appearance of W. corymbòsa is much stronger, and more erect growing, not inclining to push at the roots so much as Aristèa. The foliage is lanceolate and amplexicaule, the leaves having much the nature and appearance of Iris. The plant is of easy culture, and blooms from November to April; colour fine blue. The true one has come into the country lately. W. ramòsa is a very fine species, similar to the above; flowers yellow and blue; plant branching.
Westríngias, a genus of four species, very like the common Rosemary. W. rosmarinifórmis, leaves lanceolate, and silvery beneath; W. longifòlia is similar; both have small white silvery flowers, and are easily cultivated.
Zàmias, about twenty species, eight of which belong to this compartment. The foliage is greatly admired, and is in large fronds, with oblique, lanceolate leaflets. Several of them glaucous. It bears heads of flowers of a brown colour in the centre of the plant, very like large pine cones. Z. hórrida, the finest, Z. púngens, Z. spíralis, and Z. latifòlia, are the most conspicuous. They must be kept in the warmest part of the Green-house; and give them large well drained pots. They are imported from the Cape of Good Hope. All the plants herein named requiring to be drained. In preparing the pots, place first a piece of broken pot, or any similar substitute, with the convex side on the hole of the pot, and then put in a few, or a handful, (according to the size of the pot,) of shivers of broken pots, or round gravel, about the size of garden pease. Those that we have mentioned in this Repotting, as to be done in this, or beginning of next month, is not intended to apply to plants in general, large and small, but to those that are young, and require encouragement, or to those that were not shifted last autumn. The roots must not be disturbed, but the ball turned out entire; and put as much earth as will raise the ball within about an inch of the rim of the pot. Press the earth down around it with a thin-narrow piece of wood, frequently shaking it that no vacancy may be left. If the roots are rotten, or otherwise injured, take all such off. If this be the case, the plant will be sickly. Give it a new pot of a smaller size, administering water moderately until there are visible signs of fresh growth. The plants must not be disturbed while flowering; let the repotting be done afterwards. Plants are, at certain stages of growth, if in good health, in such a state that no one can err in shifting them when desirous to hasten their growth. Those plants that make two or more growths during the summer may be repotted in the interim of any of these growths, and all others just before they begin to push in the spring; that is, when the wood buds are perceptibly swelled. Never saturate with water fresh potted plants. There are many kinds that, without injury, could be repotted when growing; but it requires an experienced operator to decide. It would be of no material service to enumerate them here. When done potting, tie all up neatly with stakes rather higher than the plant, that the new shoots may be tied thereto during their stage of growth, to prevent them from being destroyed by the wind. There may be many that do not require repotting, but would be benefited by a top-dressing. This should be done by probing off all the surface earth down to the roots, replacing it with fresh compost, suitable to the nature of the plant.
When the above is done, arrange all the plants in proper order, and syringe them clean; but if there are any of the Green-fly, they must be fumigated previous to syringing. Take an opportunity, on the first fine day, to wash out all the pavement of the house, which should be made dry before the evening if the nights are cold. Thus every part of the house will be in order before the hurry of the garden commences.
In this method of grafting, the scion is not separated from the parent plant until it is firmly united with the stock; consequently, they must stand contiguously. We intend the following method to apply directly to Caméllias, as they are the principal plants in the Green-house that are thus worked. The criterion for the operation is, just as the plants begin to grow, either in spring or mid-summer. Place the stock contiguous to the plant where the graft or enarch is to be taken from. If the branches, where the intended union is to take place, do not grow at equal heights, a slight stage may be erected to elevate the pot that holds the lower. Take the branch that is to be enarched, (the wood of last or previous year is the most proper,) and bring it in contact with the stock; mark the parts where they are to unite, so as to form a pointed arch. In that part of the branch which is to rest against the stock, pare off the bark and part of the wood to about two or three inches in length, and in the side of the stock which is to receive the graft, do the same, that the inside rind of each may be exactly opposite, which is the first part where a union will take place. Bind them firmly and neatly together with strands of Russia matting, and protect the joint from the air by a coat of close composition; clay of the consistency of thick paint, turpentine, or wax, will equally answer. Finish by fastening the grafted branch to the head of the stock or a rod. Many practitioners make a slit or tongue into the enarch and stock, but we find it unnecessary, more tedious, and likewise more danger in breaking. Caméllias are also grafted, and budded, but these two operations require great experience and continued attention, and seldom prove so successful as enarching. When they have perfectly taken, which will be after the first growth is over, begin to separate them by cutting the scion a little at three different periods, about a week apart, separating it at the third time. If the head is intended to be taken off the stock, do it in like manner after the second growth is over. By the above method, many kinds can be grown on the same stock. The same plan applies to all evergreens.
It is expected that all the pruning is finished. If not, get all expeditiously done, according to directions given in the preceding months, likewise all digging, and that which was dug in the autumn, point over, or half dig, that all may have a neat appearance. This must not be done when the ground is too much imbibed with moisture, as that would harden the soil. Break it well with the spade, leaving it one or two days before the surface is raked smooth, that all may be ready to receive the seeds or plants that are intended to be sown or planted. As soon as the frost is entirely gone, uncover all plants or shrubs that have been protected; preserving carefully such articles as will answer the same purpose next year. The frost disappears generally from the middle to the end of this month. Cut off all decayed shoots, or such as have been hurt by the frost. The Lagerstræmias will flower in greater perfection if they are cut closely; that is, where the wood of last year is cut to within a few eyes of the wood of the previous year, at the same time having regard to the shape that the plant is required to take. Cut off the injured part of any of the evergreens that have had their foliage much injured by the severity of winter, leaving the part that is green, which is essential to the support of these kinds of plants.
Such work as can be done in this month, should not be delayed, such as hoeing, digging, raking, and clearing away all decayed leaves, and litter of every description that have been brought or blown in the garden, during autumn or winter.
May be planted any time this month, or beginning of next, which in most seasons will be preferable. We will give a few simple directions how to accomplish the work. In the first place, dig over the ground deeply where the edging is intended to be planted, breaking the soil fine, and keeping it to a proper height, viz. about one inch higher than the side of the walk; but the taste of the operator will best decide according to the situation. Rake the surface even, and tread it down with the feet, or beat it with the spade. Where it gives most, continue to add, keeping the surface at the desired height. If the edging is to be in a direct line, either on a level or inclined plane, you may be correctly and simply regulated by making the desired level at each end of the line. Take three rods about four feet long each, having a piece of one foot to cross at one end, two of these pieces painted black, the other white. Have a black one at each end of the line on the level, take the white one for the centre, going along the line, and about every twenty feet, level a spot to the exact height, which will be seen by looking over the top of the rods from one end. Having found the level, drive in a peg to it, so that no mistake may occur; beat and level between them, leaving a smooth surface. This being done, strain the line, and with the spade proceed to cut out the trench perpendicularly on the side next the walk, six, eight, ten, or twelve inches deep, according to the length of the plants. Afterwards take the plants, and cut the tops even, with the knife or shears, at the same time shortening the roots. Then with the left hand next the line, plant forward, keeping the tops of the plants level, and from one to two inches above ground, keeping the plants close according to the required thickness. Put in the earth as you proceed, and tread it firm, then rake the surface even, and with the spade beat it smooth. If the weather sets in very dry, the box will be the better of a few waterings. Sometimes boxwood is planted without roots, but it seldom gives satisfaction; not growing equally.
When it is wished to have any of these flower early, if they were not sown as directed last month, on a hotbed, let it be done early in this. Those that were sown and now growing freely, must have plenty of air. In fine days the sashes may be taken off a few hours about mid-day; and where the plants are too thick, thin them out a few inches apart, that the air may circulate amongst them. Have another bed ready to transplant them into about the end of this or beginning of next month. When transplanted, sprinkle them with water, and shade them with mats from the sun, one or two days. By this treatment they will be much stronger for planting into the borders, about the first of May. For the different kinds, see list.
May be sown in the borders about the end of the month, when the ground is prepared, and the weather fine, but avoid it at all times if the earth will not pulverise properly. The neatest and most expeditious method is to take a rod about one foot long, and one inch in diameter, rounding at the end, with which end draw a circle of nine inches diameter, from one inch to one eighth of an inch deep, according to the size of the seeds. Many very small seeds will grow best if sown on the surface of fine mould. When sown, cover in with the back of the rake, placing a small twig, or a tally with the name, in the centre of the circle, to prevent mistakes, either in sowing, planting, or hoeing. When they come above ground, the first moist day should be taken to pull up such as are too crowded. Annuals are generally too delicate to bear transplanting, therefore they ought always to be sown where they are intended to remain. A few kinds do best with removing, such as Balsam, Mary-gold, China Aster, Stockgilly, and several others of a free growing, strong-wooded nature. Annuals are such plants as grow from seed, flower, and perfect their productions, and then die, within one year. For hardy sorts, see list. Sow in rows or fancy spots the varieties of sweet pea.
Are such as are of two years' duration. Being sown this year they flower, seed, or fruit next year, and soon after decay. The seeds should be sown about the end of this or beginning of next month, either in the spot where they are intended to remain, or in a compartment by themselves, regularly marked, and transplanted when convenient. When they appear above ground, thin them out distinctly, that when they are to be removed, a little earth may adhere to them; and if put where they are to stand, leave only three plants.
In every Flower-garden there ought to be a good selection of these plants. They are lasting ornaments, and when judiciously selected, will give yearly gratification. In making a choice, a view should be had to have those that flower abundantly, are of free growth, beauty, and continuation of flower. It would go beyond our limits, to give an extensive description of any, but a few remarks on some of the finest, with their names, are indispensable.
Adònis vernális, is a fine border flower, and will grow in any common soil; flowers large, yellow rayed, having in the rays about twelve petals; leaves much divided, bloom in April and May.
Anemóne, Wind-flower. Several fine species, with flowers from one to three inches in diameter. A. Hallèri, blue; A. pulsatìlla, blue pasque flower; A. alpìna, large white. These are fine plants, and are now given to a genus called Pulsatìlla. A. palmàta flòre-plèno, yellow; A. stellàta versícolor, various coloured; A. pavonìna flòre-plèno, scarlet; A. narcissiflòra, white. Any of these are very desirable.
Antirrhìnums, Snap-dragon. All the varieties of A. màjus are esteemed in the flower borders; the pure white and bright red are very showy. A few of the species, A. mólle and A. sículum, where there is variety required, deserve a situation. The flowers are all large, and similar to the snout of an animal.
Asclèpias. The finest of this genus are native plants, and are highly esteemed in Europe, but frequently rejected with us, because "they are wild plants." A. tuberòsa has beautiful orange flowers, and delight in dry situations. A. rùbra, A. nívea, A. purpuráscens; and A. incarnàta, are the finest of the family. It is best to plant A. tuberòsa in October.
Aconítums, Wolfs'-bane, one hundred and twenty-eight distinct species, with several varieties. Many of them are of consequence and beauty; the flower stems rise from one and a half to six feet upright, and strong, furnished with many palmate and digitate leaves, terminated by spikes of blue, yellow, or white flowers, similar to a hood; hence the name of Monk's Hood is often applied to them. They are scarce in collections, but in a few years we have no doubt but many of them will be plentiful. The finest species are A. speciòsum, A. anthòra, A. neúrbergensis, A. amænum, A. napéllus, A. venústum, A. zoóctonum, A. pyramidàle, A. lycóctonum, A. albùm, and A. versícolor. They flower from May to September, and will grow in any common garden soil. The roots of A. napéllus are like small turnips, and are said to be poisonous.
Cáltha palústris flòre-plèno is a good border plant, delights in moist situations, has large cordate, crenated leaves; flowers double yellow; blooming from April till June; and is a desirable plant.
Béllis perénnis horténsis, Daisy. We might almost say with another, "every one knows the Daisy." It is named from being pretty, and is perfectly hardy, though generally kept under cover. They delight to have a shaded situation during summer, to protect them from the sun, which, as it were, scorches the roots. There are many double varieties in the gardens, which flower early. The one called Crown, or Carnation Daisy, is twice the size of the common varieties, and has white and red petals alternately, and very double. Loamy soil, inclined to moisture, is best adapted to their growth.
Campánulas. This genus affords many very ornamental plants for the Flower-garden and Shrubbery, and they flower superbly during the summer, agreeing better with our climate than with that of Europe. Several have two successions of flowers, C. persicifòlia álba plèna; C. persicifòlia cærùlea plèno; C. urticifòlia, white. Of this last there is also a double variety. C. speciòsa; C. glomerata; C. versícolor; with several others, are worthy of a situation in every garden. Their roots are strong, fleshy, and fibrous. They are easy of culture, and will retain their situation in the severest of our winters. C. grandiflòra is now Wahlenbérgia grandiflòra. It has fine blue large flowers; the flower stems are slender, and should be supported as soon as they grow.
Cheiránthus Chéiri vulgàris is the common garden Wall-flower. There are about ten varieties of it, all admired for their various colours and agreeable odour. The common variety survives the mildest of our winters. The most esteemed variety is Hæmánthus, Double bloody. They should all be protected by a frame. C. mutábilis is a beautiful species; it has many shades of colour from lilac to dark purple. The flowers are on extending racemose spikes; blooming from April to June; it requires a light rich soil; is a half shrubby evergreen plant.
Chelònes. This genus belongs entirely to this continent, and possesses many fine species. It is a matter of astonishment that they are not more cultivated and sought for in our collections. C. glábra; C. oblíqua; C. barbàta; C. atropurpùrea; C. pulchélla; C. venústa; and C. speciòsa; are all handsome, and flower from May to September; corolla large, ringent; ventricose flowers in spikes or panicles.
Chrysánthemums. There are few of this genus of any consequence as herbaceous plants, except the varieties of C. sinénse, of which there are about fifty, all desirable; but in small gardens, where there is a deficiency in room, the following are select in colour and quality: Tubulòsum álbum, quilled white; supérbum, superb white; díscolor, large lilac; fúlvum, Spanish brown; atropurpùreum, early crimson; involùtum, curled lilac; fasciculàtum, superb cluster yellow; serotìnum, late pale purple; papyràceum, paper white; Waratáh, yellow Waratah; versícolor, two-coloured red; stellàtum, starry purple; verecúndum, early blush; and mutábile, changeable pale buff. To grow these in perfection, they require rich light soil; and about the end of this month the roots should be lifted, divided, and planted into fresh soil, either by giving them a new situation, or changing the earth they were in. Two or three stems together are quite sufficient. The flowers, by the above treatment, will be much larger, more double, and finer in colour; where they are wanted to grow low and bushy, top them in June, but not later than the first of July. Where the soil is rich, and the plant having only one stem, by topping it, makes a beautiful bush. They are in flower from the first of October until severe frost; thus beautifying our gardens at a season when they would be destitute of one single attraction. If the season is dry, to water them with liquid manure will add to their vigour. They are all natives of China, and greatly esteemed by the Chinese, who only allow a few blooms to come out on the top of each stem, thereby having the flowers much finer.
Clématis, Virgin's-bower. A few species are good herbaceous plants, of upright growth, and blue flowers, C. integrifòlia; C. angustifòlia; and C. erécta; they grow best in light soil.
Coreópsis, chiefly native plants, and free-flowering; colour principally yellow; flowers rayed. C. tenuifòlia, C. verticilláta, C. díscolor, and C. trípteris, are the finest of the genus, and will grow in any common garden soil.
Delphínums. There are some showy border flowers of these, of strong growth. The leaves are much divided; the flowers in terminale spikes; colour blue, purple, red, white and yellow, with various shades. D. grandiflòrum, with its varieties, are the best of the genus. D. intermèdium, and its varieties, D. elátum, Bee Larkspur, from the ringent part of the flower being very like a bee, and D. montánum, are good varieties, and easily cultivated. When the plants become large, they ought to be divided, and planted in fresh soil. They are in bloom from May to September.
Diánthus. Some of the species of this genus are the most prominent of the Flower-garden, not only for their beauty, but also their fragrance, which is peculiarly grateful, especially in the well known and celebrated pink and carnation, with the Sweet-william, which was esteemed, in the days of old, "for its beauty to deck up the bosoms of the beautiful, and garlands and crowns for pleasure." The finest species are D. barbàtus, and D. barbàtus plèno, Sweet-william; D. discolor D. chinènsis; D. alpínus, D. supérbus; D. caryophyllus, from which have originated the Picotee and the Carnation; D. plumàrius, from which originated the Double Pink; D. fràgrans and D. supérbus. Several of these, although they will stand the severest cold, have to be protected in frames during winter, to have them in the perfection of beauty. For the character of a Pink and Carnation, see May.
Dictámnus. Two species of this genus, D. fraxinélla and D. álbus, have been cultivated and esteemed upwards of two hundred and forty years. A plant of the first of these species, when gently rubbed, emits an odour like that of lemon-peel; and when bruised emits a balsamic scent, which is strongest in the pedicles of the flowers. They have glands of a rusty colour, that exude a viscid juice, or resin, which exhales in vapour, and in a dark place may be seen to take fire. Its flowers are red, those of the other white, in loose terminale spikes; the flower has five petals, clawed and unequal, with glandular dots; in bloom from May to July; delights in sandy loam.
Dodecàtheon. This is a native genus, and commonly called American cowslip. The generic term, a name of the Romans, signifying twelve gods or divinities, is applied with great absurdity to a plant, a native of a world the Romans never saw nor had any idea of, neither resembling, in any particular, the poetical fancy of their writers. The most admired species is D. mèdia; the flowers are in umbels, on a pedicle, from six to twelve inches high; the corolla is rotata reflexa, colour light purple, bottom of petals lake and yellow; blooming in May. The white variety is very much esteemed, and surpasses the preceding. The ground is pure white, the bottom of the petals the same as the other. There is also a spotted variety found on the banks of the Missouri. They delight in brown loam, a half shady situation, inclining to moisture. The foliage soon decays after flowering.