*Onopordum Acanthium.—A native biennial plant of bold, habit and vigorous growth, with stout, branching stems often more than 5 ft. high, and very large, undulating, spiny leaves, covered with long, whitish, cobweb-like hairs. Flowers purplish, in large, solitary, terminal heads. O. illyricum has greener and more deeply-cut leaves, stiffer stems, a more branching habit, and much more spiny leaves and stems. O. arabicum grows to the height of nearly 8 ft. with an erect and very slightly branching habit, and has both sides of the leaves, as well as the stems, covered with a white down. All these species are very hardy, and thrive well in ordinary soil. They are particularly adapted for the rougher and more neglected parts of pleasure-grounds, where they will sow themselves.
*Osmunda regalis.—This, the largest and most striking of our native ferns (sometimes attaining a height of 8 ft.), is one of the most ornamental subjects that can be grown in certain positions. It should be planted in moist peaty soil in half-shady places, on the banks of streams, the margins of pieces of water, by cascades, etc. It may also be planted in the water with good effect. It has been found to do well exposed to the full sun, when its roots are in a constantly moist, porous, moss-covered soil, in a position sheltered from strong winds. In shady positions it would be found to attain great stature if planted in deep, well-manured soil. The various North American Osmundas should also be associated with this. There are several varieties to be met with in gardens, the handsomest of which perhaps is O. r. cristata. Popular and almost universally cultivated as the Osmunda is; however, it is not at all common to see the Royal Fern and several other Osmundas otherwise than in a shabby, or at best in a half-developed, condition. Mr. A. Parsons, of Danesbury, a well-known florist and cultivator of ferns, has overcome this difficulty, and narrates his marked success in the pages of the Florist and Pomologist. He formed a very large fernery in an old chalk-pit, and with much success; but, notwithstanding all the care taken of the Osmundas and allied ferns, they were tried for four seasons with no satisfactory results, the roots of the surrounding trees robbing them of both soil and water. “A change was then made: a piece of ground, of irregular shape, large enough to contain about 20 plants, was staked out, and the mould, or, more correctly speaking, the chalk, was removed to the depth of 3 ft.; a bricklayer followed, and put in a floor of three bricks laid on the flat, set in good Portland cement, and over that a layer of plain tiles, the sides being made up to the ground-level with a 4½-inch wall, well built up in the same kind of cement; this made the whole water-tight, and prevented the roots of the surrounding trees from penetrating and robbing the ferns of their moisture. The space was filled up with earth, compounded of good loam, peat, and leaf-mould, in equal proportions, with about one-fifth of good rotten manure added thereto; these ingredients were thoroughly mixed and well trodden in, and then the ferns were planted. In forming this bed, provision was made for the escape of the surplus water, by introducing into the front wall, at about 4 ins. from the bottom, a common 3-in. drain-pipe, which communicated with a small tank, about 3 ft. square, sunk into the chalk, so that all waste water became absorbed. This method proved to be eminently successful, the plants far surpassing in size any I have ever seen under artificial cultivation, and, judging from report, rivalling their growth in their natural habitats. Last season I could boast of Osmunda regalis with fronds at least 8 ft. in length, Osmunda spectabilis 4½ ft., Osmunda Claytoniana 5 ft., Osmunda cinnamomea 3 ft., and the beautiful Osmunda regalis, var. cristata, 3 ft. in length. Adiantum pedatum grew from 2 ft. to 3 ft. in height, and others were proportionally fine. The plants were not drawn up by being planted closely together, but were placed at a fair distance apart, and became handsome and noble specimens. Every spring I apply a dressing of about two inches of rotten manure to the surface, and just cover it with mould for the sake of appearance. The artificial swamp is the admiration of all the visitors here. The plants are always in a healthy and vigorous state, and have none of that half-starved appearance so frequently to be seen. The result of my experience induces me to believe that a more liberal treatment would not be found objectionable in the cultivation of many more of our native ferns. I intend making the experiment this season, and may possibly find time to make known what amount of success I may meet with. In concluding my remarks upon what I may term ‘growing Osmundas under difficulties,’ I would observe that the points to be principally attended to are—(1) a deep water-tight and root-tight tank, the depth of which may, with advantage, be more than in the case I have described; (2) a rich nutritious soil; (3) a reasonable amount of water; and (4) a drain to carry off the surplus.”
*Pæonia tenuifolia.—A charming plant, about 1½ ft. or 2 ft. high, with numerous upright stems almost completely hidden by the dense finely-cut leaves, producing an effect which very much resembles that afforded by the foliage of the Ferulas. The flowers are of a deep crimson, or purplish-red, and about 2½ ins. broad, solitary and erect on the tops of the stems. It does well in almost any soil or position, and might with advantage be now and then used as an isolated specimen on the turf.
*Panicum altissimum.—A very handsome hardy perennial grass, very like P. virgatum, and often confounded with it, although much more elegant in habit. It forms dense, erect tufts from 2 ft. to 6½ ft. high, according to climate, soil, and temperature. The leaves are linear, finely toothed, long, and arching. When in flower the plant presents a very attractive appearance, the inflorescence consisting of very large panicles of slender whorled branchlets covered with numerous small spikelets of flowers, which ultimately assume a tinge of dark chestnut-red.
*Panicum bulbosum.—A tall and strong species, with a free and beautiful inflorescence. It grows about 5 ft. high, and the flowers are very gracefully spread forth. It forms an elegant plant for the flower-garden in which grace and variety are sought; for dotting about here and there, near the margins of shrubberies, etc.; and for naturalisation.
*Panicum capillare.—A hardy annual kind, growing in tufts from 16 ins. to 20 ins. high, and very ornamental when in full flower, the tufts being then covered with large, pyramidal panicles, which are borne both at the ends of the stems and in the axils of the stem-leaves. Grows in any soil or position, and sows itself. I noticed it in great abundance in cultivated fields in many parts of Canada and the United States. Well suited for border beds or isolation, being one of the most graceful plants in cultivation. It is commonly grown under the name of Eragrostis elegans.
*Panicum virgatum.—A handsome, bold, hardy species from N. America, growing, in good soil, to a height of nearly 3½ ft. It forms close, compact tufts of leaves, a foot or more long, which, from July to the first frosts, are crowned with very large, dense, branching panicles. The general colour of the plant is a fine lively green, and its graceful habit renders it an admirable subject for the picturesque flower-garden, the pleasure-ground, etc., in isolated tufts. It is also fine for borders. The best mode of multiplying it is by division in the spring, when vegetation is just commencing.
*Papaver bracteatum (Great Scarlet Poppy).—A remarkably vigorously-growing perennial species from Siberia and N. Russia, with simple, rough, hairy stems more than 4 ft. high, each terminated by a single flower 9 ins. broad, and of a bright deep brick-red colour, with a large black spot at the base of each petal, and 2 or 3 leaf-like bracts at the base of each flower. The radical leaves, which are very deeply divided, form a dense broad tuft resting on the ground. A very ornamental plant for the open parts of pleasure-grounds, flourishing in almost any kind of well-drained soil. It will prove most effective as an isolated plant in the rougher parts of the pleasure-ground. A plant of it would also show to great advantage in a group of green-leaved subjects like the Ferulas. Very closely resembling the preceding is the Armenian species P. orientalis. It is however smaller in every respect, and the flowers want the distinguishing bracts.
Papyrus antiquorum (Egyptian Paper-plant).—A very graceful reed, or rather cyperus, which yielded the material used as paper by the ancient Egyptians. The rootstocks spread horizontally under the mud in places where the plant grows, continuing to throw up stems as they creep along. These stems are triangular and grow from 3 ft. to 8 ft. high; they are quite leafless except at the top, where they bear a large parasol-like tuft of green, gracefully-arching filaments. Shallow parts of pieces of water in a warm position are the most suitable places for this plant. It may, however, also be planted in soil which is kept constantly moist. Multiplied by division of the rootstocks; the pieces to be planted under water, if possible. In gardens south of London this fine plant may be tried in the open air in summer from June till September in warm spots; if not planted in shallow water, or the artificial bog, it should receive a very liberal supply of water in summer.
*Paulownia imperialis.—A Japanese tree of moderate size, with a large, dense, spreading head, and broad, entire or lobed, opposite leaves covered with hoary down. The flowers are nearly 2 ins. long, in terminal panicles, and of a purplish-violet colour. Young plants, say of a year, or in the first spring of their existence as independent plants, will, if cut down to the ground, make a luxuriant growth during the current year, and indeed prove more effective than the Ferdinanda eminens. The stem rises quite vertically and with great vigour, and looks simply a column of noble leaves. Plants growing in an ordinary nursery-quarter were (Sept. 8, 1868) 7 ft. and 8 ft. high from the ground, and the leaves from 20 ins. to 22 ins. in diameter. It was noticeable, too, that those at the top of each shaft were as large as those half-way up and near the base, which is not usually the case; and of course every variation of this kind is valuable, as it helps us to produce variety. Planted in rich ground and treated specially to secure a subtropical effect, greater dimensions than the above may readily be obtained, and older plants when cut down may be expected to produce stronger stems and leaves. They should be cut down every year in winter or spring, and confined to one stem.
*Petasites vulgaris.—A native plant of vigorous growth and striking appearance, forming dense spreading tufts of enormous radical leaves, usually about 2 ft. or 2½ ft. high. The leaves are heart-shaped in outline, and sometimes 3 ft. in width. A suitable subject for planting in any position where the soil is moist and deep, as on the margins of pieces of water or in damp glades. There is a variety (P. v. niveus) which has white, instead of rosy, flowers. This is also quite hardy, but does best in a slightly shaded position in deep clayey or sandy-clay soil.
Phœnix dactylifera (Date Palm).—A handsome palm with a rugged stem, and pinnate dark-green leaves from 6 ft. to 12 ft. long; the divisions linear-lance-shaped, very much pointed, and standing out quite straight. Easily increased from seed. Suitable for the greenhouse in winter and the open garden in summer, from the end of May till the beginning of October. Africa and India.
Phormium tenax (New Zealand Flax).—A hardy plant, with something of the habit of a large Iris, forming tufts of broad, shining, leathery leaves from 5 ft. to 6½ ft. high, gracefully arching at the top. The flowers, of a lemon colour, are borne in erect loose spikes just above the foliage. Generally with us it will be found to enjoy greenhouse temperature, though in genial places in the south and west of England and Ireland it does very well in the open air. Its best use is for the decoration of the garden in summer, a few specimens well grown and plunged in the grass or the centre of a bed giving a most distinct aspect to the scene. The larger such plants are, the better, of course, will be the effect. The small ones will prove equally useful and effective in vases, to which they will add a grace that vases rarely now possess. It is pre-eminently useful from its being alike good for the house, conservatory, and hall-decoration in winter. Multiplied by division of the tufts in summer, and thriving best in a light deep soil. Wherever indoor decoration on a large scale is practised it is indispensable, and it should be remarked that, unless for vase decoration, it requires to be grown into goodly specimens before affording much effect out of doors; but when grown large in tubs, it is equally grand for the large conservatory and for important positions in the flower-garden. In the extreme south of England and Ireland the New Zealand Flax will thrive in the water as well as on dry land; and where this is the case it may of course be used with fine effect as an aquatic. Doubtless, too, the variegated variety of the New Zealand Flax would be a capital plant to try in the open air in nice situations in the south and west of England and Ireland, where the green plant sometimes does so well. In any case it will do finely out of doors for the summer.
*Phytolacca decandra (Virginian Poke).—A vigorous herbaceous perennial, from 5½ ft. to nearly 10 ft. high, with stems of a reddish hue, very much branched above; the branches, leaf-stalks, veins of the leaves, and flower-stalks being also red. The flowers are numerous, in cylindrical spikes, and are at first white, afterwards changing to a delicate rose-colour. In autumn the leaves change to a uniform reddish tinge, which has a fine effect, contrasted with the numerous pendent purple berries. This is a very hardy plant, requiring hardly any attention and growing in almost any kind of soil. Multiplied either by seed or by division. It forms a very free and vigorous mass of vegetation, and, though perhaps scarcely refined enough in leaf to justify its being recommended for flower-garden use, no plant is more worthy of a place wherever a rich herbaceous vegetation is desired; whether near the rougher approaches of a hardy fernery, open glades near woodland walks, or any like positions. N. America.
*Poa aquatica.—A stout, rapidly increasing native grass, growing from 4 ft. to 6 ft. high, with broad, flat leaves and the inflorescence in much-branched handsome panicles, sometimes nearly a foot long. It is not uncommon in England and Ireland, mostly occurring in wet ditches, by rivers, and in marshes. It is one of the boldest and handsomest hardy grasses, for planting by the margins of pieces of artificial water or streams, associated with such plants as the Typhas, Acorus, bullrush, great water-dock, etc.
*Poa fertilis.—Just within the main entrance of the Royal Gardens at Kew a very graceful-looking grass might have been seen isolated on the turf during the past year or two. It is a comparatively dwarf subject, and not at all striking in bloom like the Pampas, but withal very distinct and desirable. It is one of the most elegant grasses, forming dense tufts of long, soft, smooth, slender leaves, which arch outwards and downwards in the most graceful manner on every side, and, in the flowering season, are surmounted by airy, diffuse, purplish or violet-tinged panicles, rising to a height of from 20 ins. to 3 ft., the grassy tufts being usually about half that height. This plant is widely distributed over Southern Europe, Northern Asia, and North America, in wet meadows and on low banks of streams. Of all the dwarf perennial grasses it is perhaps the best for isolation on the grass, where its fine dense and graceful tufts of long hair-like leaves and elegant panicles form a quite distinct-looking and ornamental object.
*Polygonatum multiflorum (Solomon’s Seal).—This, one of the most graceful of our native plants, is too distinct and pleasing in aspect to be omitted from an enumeration of ornamental subjects. It is best suited for a shady position under trees, or the fringes of shrubberies, or groups of tall and widely-branching plants, where its elegantly arching stems and pretty pendent flowers would attain greatest perfection, and exhibit a very marked contrast to the surrounding types of vegetation. A well-drained, sandy, and peaty soil will be found to suit it best, and it is well adapted for the wild and semi-wild parts of the pleasure-ground. Easily multiplied by division of the rootstocks.
*Polygonum cuspidatum (Sieboldi).—Forms large and noble tufts of lively green, which increase in beauty from year to year. It grows to a height of 3½ ft. to 6 ft. and more, the stems being at first erect and simple, then becoming much branched, the branches arching, and spreading nearly horizontally at the top. The white flowers, which are disposed in clusters forming close panicles, are succeeded by handsome rosy-white fruit. When planted singly, and away from other subjects, its head assumes a rather peculiar and pretty arching character; and therefore it is not quite fit for forming centres or using in groups, so much as for planting singly on the turf, there leaving it to take care of itself and come up year after year. In this way it would be particularly useful in the pleasure-ground or diversified English flower-garden. It is also good for any position in which a bold and distinct type of vegetation is desired, while of course, when we come to have fine groups of hardy “foliage-plants” in our gardens, its use will be much extended. The deeper and better the soil, the finer will its development prove. You cannot make the soil too deep and good if you want the plant to assume a very striking character. It runs very much at the root in all directions horizontally just below the surface of the soil. By cutting away the runners, and thus concentrating the sap in the central stems, tufts have been obtained from 9 ft. to 13 ft. high, and as much across. Japan.
Polymnia grandis. (See Montagnæa heracleifolia.)
Polymnia pyramidalis.—A free, bold, and tall plant, with somewhat of a sunflower habit, but withal very fine, and making a tall green growth by the end of July, before many other things used in this way begin to push. The leaves are not so large as those of the other species, and differ in shape, being nearly cordate; but the growth is vigorous, and the habit distinct. It pushes up a narrow pyramidal head of foliage to a height of nearly 10 ft. in Paris gardens, and will be found to do well in the south of England. Easily multiplied in spring by division or cuttings from plants placed in heat in January, or from seed sown in a pot. The species Uvedalia and maculata are rather coarse herbaceous plants, fitted for rough places in warm positions, and deep, rich soil. New Granada.
*Pontederia cordata.—One of the handsomest water-plants in cultivation, combining gracefulness of habit and leaf with beauty of flower. It forms thick tufts of almost arrow-shaped, erect, long-stalked leaves from 1½ ft. to more than 2 ft. high, crowned with the handsome blue flower-spikes, which issue from the leafstalks just below the base of the leaves. It should be planted in shallow pieces of water. Multiplied by division of the tufts at any season. N. America.
Pothos acaulis.—A noble plant of the Arum family, with huge simple dark-green leaves, forming a magnificent rosette. It requires stove treatment in winter and spring, and having made its growth and been hardened off under cover, it may be placed out in the open air in sheltered warm places in the southern counties, from the middle of June to the end of September. It, however, sometimes suffers from cold, and is on the whole only likely to be of very partial use. Among the other large Aroids which have been tried in Battersea Park, the best are Philodendron macrophyllum, P. Simsii, and Anthurium Hookeri. Being rather tender they all require a very warm and well-sheltered position. W. Indies.
*Rhaponticum cynaroides.—A hardy perennial from the Pyrenees, 3 ft. or more in height, with a rigid, simple, furrowed stem, and lobed or entire oblong radical leaves, covered underneath with silvery down. Flowers solitary, purple, in very large heads. It thrives in a deep, substantial, moist, but well-drained and free soil. This and, to a smaller extent, the following species are worthy of a place in full collections of hardy fine-leaved plants, for borders, the margins of groups, and, in the case of R. cynaroides, for isolation. Both are easily increased by division.
*Rhaponticum pulchrum.—A hardy perennial from the Caucasus, with numerous simple stems 2 ft. or more in height, and much-divided, undulating, toothed leaves of an ashy or sea-green colour on the upper side, and whitish underneath. The flowers are borne in small solitary purplish heads late in summer. A very suitable subject for embellishing dry, arid, rocky positions. R. scariosum is another kind, useful for the same purposes as the preceding species.
The Rhubarbs, from their vigour and picturesqueness, are well worthy of cultivation among hardy, fine-leaved plants. They are so hardy that they may be planted in any soil, and afterwards left to take care of themselves. Their fine leaves and bold habit make them valuable ornaments for the margins of shrubberies (the best way is to plant one singly a few feet from the margin of the shrubbery, so that when they die down in autumn no blank may be seen), and for semi-wild places where a very free and luxuriant type of vegetation is desired. Though not particular as to soil, they enjoy it when it is deep and rich, and the more it is made so the better they will grow.
Rheum Emodi is undoubtedly the handsomest and most distinct of the genus in cultivation. The figure conveys an accurate idea of the outline of its leaves, and of its aspect when in flower. The large leaves have their veins red, which distinguishes it from any other species. It has a large and deep-feeding root, black on the outside, and yellow within. The flowers are very small, of a yellowish white. It comes up somewhat later than the common kinds, and is not by any means common, though it may be found in botanic gardens and nurseries where collections of herbaceous plants are formed. It may, like all the species, be increased by division, but a young plant should not be disturbed for several years after being planted. It is a native of Nepaul.
The palmated rhubarb, Rheum palmatum, is immediately distinguished from its cultivated fellows by its leaves
being deeply cut into lobes. It is scarcely so ornamental or imposing as the fuller-leaved kinds, but is an interesting plant. I have seen it grown in some Irish gardens for culinary purposes, but do not remember to have noticed it in English kitchen-gardens. When well grown in deep and rather light and well-drained earth, the flowering-stem of this species attains a height of about nine feet. It is a native of Tartary, and well deserves a place. Rheum Ribes is a somewhat delicate species, a native of Southern Persia, which may be seen in one or two of our botanic gardens, and more frequently in those of France; but we fear it is not hardy enough to thrive well in these islands. The most remarkable known species is the Himalayan (R. nobile), which has its flower-stems beautifully clothed with large straw-coloured and pink-edged bracts, so as to form what may be termed a pyramid of leaves; but, as this species is not in cultivation, we need not describe it further. It would prove a very welcome addition to our collection of hardy plants.
The common rhubarbs are said by some of our authorities to have chiefly sprung from Rheum Rhaponticum, and some of them have also come from the wavy-leaved Rheum (R. undulatum). In any case, some of the garden varieties of rhubarb are worth planting for ornamental purposes. They have been so planted in Hyde Park, but in masses—not the proper way to employ them. Kinds deserving of notice are R. australe, R. compactum, R. rugosum, R. hybridum, Victoria rhubarb (a garden variety, with very large leaves and long red stalks), Myatt’s Linnæus, and Prince Albert (also garden varieties, and splendid ornamental plants). Mr. Shirley Hibberd says he has found Scott’s Monarch to be the most imposing and ornamental of all the garden varieties.
*Rhus Cotinus (Venetian Sumach).—A bushy shrub, about 6½ ft. high, with simple, smooth, shining green leaves, and a very remarkable feathery inflorescence of a deep red colour. It requires a dry, gravelly, warm soil, and will grow in the most arid positions. Where it thrives the effect of its peculiar inflorescence is very fine and distinct. It is used with most effect as an isolated specimen, though it would group very well with such plants as Lindley’s Spiræa. S. Europe.
*Rhus glabra laciniata.—This variety of the smooth or scarlet Sumach is a small shrub with compound leaves, growing from 4 ft. to 7 ft. high, a native of North America, with finely-cut and elegant leaves, the strongest being about a foot long when the plants have been established a year or two. When seen on an established plant, these leaves combine the beauty of those of the finest Grevillea with that of a fern frond, while the youngest and unfolding leaves remind one of the aspect of a finely-cut umbelliferous plant in spring. The variety observable in the shape, size, and aspect of the foliage makes the plant charming to look upon, while the midribs of the fully-grown leaves are red, and in autumn the whole glow off into bright colour after the fashion of American shrubs and trees. During the entire season it is presentable, and there is no fear of any vicissitude of weather injuring it. Its great merit is that, in addition to being so elegant in foliage, it has a very dwarf habit, and is thoroughly hardy. Plants three years old and undisturbed for the last two years are not more
than eighteen inches high. The heads of some are branched, but these are not less elegant than when in a simple-stemmed state, so that here we have clearly a subject that will afford a charming fern-like effect in the full sun, and add graceful verdure and distinction to the flower-garden. When the flowers show after the plant is a few years old, they may be pinched off; but this need only be practised in the case of permanent groups or plantings of it. To produce the effect of a Grevillea or a fern on a small scale, we should of course keep this graceful Rhus small and propagate it like a bedding-plant. Like most other shrubs, it has a tendency to branch; but to fully enjoy the beauty of the leaves it is best to cut down the plants yearly, as then the leaves given off from the simple erect stem are much larger and more graceful. It will, however, be necessary to allow it to become established before treating it in this way, as it is at present comparatively new to our gardens. The figure, sketched early in August, represents a young plant little more than a foot high, which had been cut down to the ground during the spring of the past year, and proves that its full beauty may be enjoyed in a very small state. It may be most tastefully used in association with bedding-plants, or on banks in or near the rock-garden or hardy fernery, planting it in light sandy loam. The graceful mixtures and bouquet-*like beds that might be made with the aid of such plants need not be suggested here, while of course an established plant, or groups of three, might well form the centre of a bed. Planting a very small bed or group separately in the flower-garden, and many other uses which cannot be enumerated here, will occur to those who have once tried it. Some hardy plants of fine foliage are either so rampant or so topheavy that they cannot be wisely associated with bedding-plants. This is, on the contrary, as tidy and tractable a grower as the most fastidious could desire. It would be a mistake to put such a pretty plant under or near rough trees and shrubs. Give it the full sun, and good free soil.
*Rhus vernicifera is distinct from the preceding, and has fine leaves. It is a native of Japan, and the source of the best Japan varnish according to Thunberg. Useful for grouping with the preceding or other hardy shrubs of like character.
*Ricinus communis (Castor-oil Plant).—When well grown in the open air, there is not in the whole range of cultivated plants a more imposing subject than this. It may have been seen nearly 12 ft. high in the London parks of late years, and with leaves nearly 1 yd. wide. It is true we require a bed of very rich deep earth under it to make it attain such dimensions and beauty; but in all parts, and with ordinary attention, it grows well. In warm countries, in which the plant is very widely cultivated, it becomes a small tree, but is much prettier in the state in which it is seen with us—i.e., with an unbranched stem clothed from top to bottom with noble leaves. Soon after it betrays, a tendency to develope side-shoots the cold autumn comes and puts an end to all further progress; and so much the better, because it is much handsomer in a simple-stemmed state than any other. The same is true of not a few other large-leaved plants—once they break into a number of side-shoots their leaf beauty is to a great extent lost. It is as easily raised from seed as the common bean, requiring, however, to be raised in heat. It should be sown about the middle of February, and the plants gradually hardened off so as to be fit to put out by the middle of May. The Ricinus is a grand plant for making bold and noble beds near those of the more brilliant flowers, and tends to vary the flower-garden finely. It is not well to associate it closely with bedding-plants, in consequence of the strong growth and shading power of the leaves, so to speak. A good plan is to make a compact group of the plant in the centre of some wide circular bed and surround it with a band of a dwarfer subject, say the Aralia or Caladium, and then finish with whatever arrangement of the flowering plants may be most admired. A bold and striking centre may be obtained, while the effect of the flowers is much enhanced, especially if the planting be nicely graduated and tastefully done. For such groups the varieties of the Castor-oil plant are not likely to be surpassed. East Indies.
The most notable varieties are R. c. sanguineus, the stem, leaf-stalks, young leaves, and fruit of which are of a blood-red colour; R. c. borboniensis, which in southern climates often attains the extraordinary height of 26 ft. in one year; R. c. giganteus, a very tall kind from the Philippine Islands.
Other kinds in cultivation are R. Belot Desfougerès (a very tall and branching kind), R. viridis (of a uniform lively green colour), R. insignis, R. africanus, R. africanus albidus, R. minor, R. hybridus, R. microcarpus.
The better and richer the soil, and the warmer the position, the more vigorous will be the growth of any of the above. Copious watering in summer is indispensable.
*Rumex Hydrolapathum.—A very large native water-plant of a size and habit sufficiently striking to entitle it to a place amongst ornamental subjects by the water-side. The radical long-stalked leaves, which are sometimes 2 ft. or more in length, form erect tufts of a very imposing character. The flowering-stem is frequently 6 ft. in height, and bears a very large, dense, pyramidal panicle of a reddish or olive-fawn colour. The plant is most effective in autumn, when the leaves change to a lurid red colour, which they retain for some time.
*Saccharum ægyptiacum.—A vigorous perennial grass, forming ample tufts of reed-like downy stems 6½ ft. to 13 ft. high, and clothed with very graceful foliage, well adapted for ornamenting the margins of pieces of water, the slopes and other parts of pleasure-grounds, etc., in a warm position. In our climate it does not flower, but even without its fine feathery plumes it is a pretty plant from its foliage and habit alone. Easily and quickly multiplied by division in spring; the offsets to be started in a frame or pit. When established they may be planted out in May or June. N. Africa.
*Sagittaria sagittifolia.—A British water-plant, affording the most remarkable example of the arrow-shaped leaf to be met with among hardy plants. These leaves stand erect, from 1 ft. to 1½ ft. above the water, and from the middle of the tuft the flowering-stem rises in August to the height of 1½ ft. to 2½ ft. The flowers are of a pale rosy-white colour. There is a variety with double flowers (S. sagittifolia flore pleno), which resemble the flowers of the double Rocket. Both the double and single kinds should have a place among water or bog plants.
*Salvia argentea (S. patula).—A handsome biennial about 3½ ft. high, forming broad spreading rosettes of large, oval, heart-shaped leaves, densely covered with long silky hairs of a silvery whiteness, and bearing large panicles of white flowers. An excellent subject for grouping on grass-plats or the uneven parts of pleasure-grounds. Where the effect of the foliage only is desired the flower-stems should be pinched off as soon as they appear; the leaves will then preserve their freshness and silvery colour throughout the year. A light, sandy, or gravelly soil is the most suitable. Easily propagated by sowing in autumn, and keeping the seedlings in a cold frame through the winter, giving them air as often as possible, and watering very moderately. This plant is most effective during its first summer, and before it makes an attempt to flower. S. Europe.
*Scirpus lacustris (Bulrush).—This giant rush sends up numerous smooth green stems as thick as the finger at the base, and from 3 ft. to 8 ft. high. In still water the bases of these are covered with leafless sheaths, but in running water the uppermost sheath produces at its extremity a leaf of several inches in length, in addition to which numerous barren tufts of leaves, often of great length, and resembling those of Sparganium affine, are also produced. When in flower, the stems are crowned with short, umbel-like, chestnut-coloured panicles. It is very effective on the margins of lakes or streams, associated with other tall and imposing aquatic plants.
Seaforthia elegans.—One of the most beautiful of the Palm family, from the northern parts of Australia, where it attains a height of about 30 ft., but in this country seldom arrives at more than half its full size. The leaves are from 2 ft. to 10 ft. in length, and are divided into numerous narrow leaflets from 1 ft. to 1½ ft. long, and of a dark green colour. The whole plant is perfectly smooth, and is one of the finest subjects in cultivation for the conservatory, greenhouse, or subtropical garden. It may be placed in the open air from the middle or end of May until the beginning of October. It is too scarce as yet to be procurable by horticulturists generally, but should be looked for by all who take an interest in these matters and have a house in which to grow it. It stands well in the conservatory during the winter, though generally kept in the stove, where of course it grows beautifully. There are hardier kinds—the dwarf Fan-palm for example—but on the whole none of them are so valuable as this.
Senecio Ghiesbreghtii.—A handsome Mexican plant with stout, round, spotted stems, 3 to 4 ft. high, and large oval-oblong, thick, coarsely-toothed leaves of a light green colour, and slightly rolled down at the margin. Flowers small, yellow, very numerous, in corymbose clusters of enormous size. A useful plant for isolation on grass-plats, or for beds, etc. Young plants are to be preferred for this purpose, as the old ones are apt to become bare and ragged-looking at the base. Plant in a mixture of peat soil and free loam at the end of May. Multiplied by cuttings in winter, struck under glass in a temperate heat in early spring.
Senecio Petasites (Cineraria platanifolia).—Another Mexican species, nearly 3½ ft. high, with a stout, half-shrubby, slightly-branching stem, and large, dark-green, roughish, lobed leaves. It requires a substantial, but free and cool soil, and may be multiplied at almost any season by cuttings. It requires greenhouse protection in winter, grows freely in the open air planted out in early summer, and is suitable for beds or groups associated with the medium-sized subjects.
*Seseli gummiferum. (Silvery Seseli).—An umbelliferous plant with elegantly-divided leaves of a peculiarly pleasing glaucous or almost silvery tone. I am not sure whether this plant is perennial or not, and it is not hardy on cold soils, having perished during several of our most severe winters, but it is so unique in its way that some persons might like to grow it, and if so the best position is on dry and sunny banks, or raised beds or borders. It is one of the few subjects that are at once fern-like and silvery, and if plentiful enough might be used to form charming edgings. It is not difficult to raise from seed, which should be sown soon after being gathered. As it is liable to perish in winter, perhaps the best way to deal with it would be to put it out annually at the end of spring, raising it and keeping it in frames for this purpose; and to secure seeds a few plants might be left in 10 in. or 12 in. pots, so that the seed might be gathered under cover. Doubtless, however, continental raisers can supply it. S. Russia.
*Silphium integrifolium.—This composite has a rough, vigorous, rigid, slightly four-angled, grooved stem, from 2 ft. to 4 ft. high, and leaves from 3 ins. to 5 ins. long, all opposite, lanceolate-ovate, entire, tapering to a sharp point from a roundish heart-shaped and partly-clasping base, and covered with a roughish down. The flower-heads are of a greenish-yellow, on short stalks, in a close, forking corymb. A variety (S. læve) has the leaves and stem smooth, or nearly so. This and the following kinds are only suited for the rougher parts of the pleasure-ground, and by wood-walks, etc.; they will be seen to greatest advantage in rich and deep soil, but will grow in any kind. Division. N. America.
*Silphium laciniatum (Compass-plant).—A vigorous perennial with a stout, round stem, often upwards of 8 ft. in height. The leaves, which are collected chiefly about the base of the plant, are large, wrinkled, and deeply-divided into lance-shaped, pointed segments, and fringed with white hairs. The stem-leaves are few, much smaller, and opposite. Flowers of a fine yellow with a brownish centre, in large, few, solitary, short-stalked, horizontal or drooping heads, which have the peculiarity of facing to the east. Division. N. America.
*Silphium perfoliatum (Cup-plant).—A robust-growing North American perennial from 4 ft. to 8 ft. in height, with a square stem and broad, opposite, oval, lance-shaped, coarsely toothed leaves, 6 ins. to 15 ins. long, rough on both sides, the upper ones united at their bases; the lower ones abruptly narrowed into winged leaf-stalks, which are also united at their bases. Flower-heads about 2 ins. across, with a greenish-yellow disk and a yellow ray. Does best in a deep, free, well-drained, sandy soil, but will grow well when the ground is slightly moist, especially in warm, but not too shady, positions. Division.
*Silphium terebinthinaceum (Prairie-Dock).—A large kind with smooth slender stems from 4 ft. to 10 ft. high, panicled at the summit, and bearing many small heads of light yellow flowers. The leaves are ovate-oblong, thick and rough, especially beneath, and from 1 ft. to 2 ft. long, on slender stalks. A variety (pinnatifidum) has the leaves deeply cut or pinnatifid. This species is remarkable for its strong turpentine odour. Division. N. America.
*Silphium trifoliatum.—This species has a smooth, often glaucous, rather slender stem, from 4 ft. to 6 ft. high, branching above. Leaves lance-shaped, pointed, entire or scarcely serrate, short-stalked, in whorls of three or four, the uppermost ones opposite. Flower-heads yellow, more than 2 ins. across, on long stalks, and forming loose panicles. Division. N. America.
*Silybum marianum (Milk-thistle).—A very robust and vigorous-growing native biennial, 5 ft. or more in height, of strikingly handsome appearance, and well deserving to be associated with other large fine-foliaged plants. Its leaves are of very great size, variously cut and undulated, tipped and margined with scattered spines, and of a bright glistening green colour marbled and variegated with broad white veins. Easily raised from seed, and thrives in almost any kind of well-drained soil. Additional vigour and development may be thrown into the foliage by pinching off the flower-stems on their first appearance. If a few plants are raised in the garden and planted out in rough and somewhat bare places or banks, etc., this will soon establish itself permanently.
Silybum eburneum is a more tender species, very closely resembling the above, but with spines which appear as if made of ivory. It is also more constantly biennial, and in consequence its leaves are almost always in the rosette stage throughout the first year. It is somewhat tenderer than S. marianum. Algeria.
The Solanums.—This family, so wonderfully varied, affords numerous species that look graceful and imposing in leaf when in a young and free-growing state. In selecting examples from this great genus we must be careful, as our climate is a shade too cold for some of the kinds grown on the continent, and many of them are of too ragged an aspect to be tolerated in a tasteful garden. Half a dozen species or so are indispensable, but there is quite a crowd of narrow-leaved and ignoble ones which may well be passed over.
Most of these plants may be raised from seed, while they are also freely grown from cuttings, which struck in February will make good plants by May. All the kinds named are suitable for association with the larger-leaved plants, though they do not as a rule attain such height and vigorous development as those of the first rank, like the Ricinus. As a rule, temperate-house treatment in winter is required, and they should be planted out about the middle or end of May, in rich fight soil, a warm position, and perfect shelter. S. marginatum, planted in a very dwarf and young state, furnishes a most distinct and charming effect: it should be planted rather thinly, so that the leaves of one plant may not brush against those of another. If some very dwarf plants are used as a groundwork, so much the better; but the downy and silvery leaves of this plant are sure to please without this aid. It is very much better when thus grown than when permitted to assume the bush form.