The Illustrated Dictionary of Gardening, Division 1; A to Car. A Practical and Scientific Encyclopædia of Horticulture (part 3 of 5)

The Illustrated Dictionary of Gardening, Division 1; A to Car. A Practical and Scientific Encyclopædia of Horticulture (part 3 of 5)

=A. uniflora= (one-flowered).* fl. sub-globose, pure white, sometimes freckled with brown, spotted profusely with pink inside. Columbia, 1844. One of the best in cultivation.

=ANGURIA= (one of the Greek names for the cucumber). ORD. Cucurbitaceæ. A stove genus of evergreen climbers allied to Momordica. Flowers monœcious; corolla joined to the calyx, ventricose, red, with a five-parted spreading border. Fruit somewhat tetragonal. Several species have been introduced from time to time, but they are rarely seen in our gardens. Some of them are handsome plants, and well worthy of cultivation.

=ANHALONIUM.= See =Mammillaria=.

=ANIGOZANTHUS= (from anoigo, to expand, and anthos, a flower; in reference to the branching expansion of the flower stalks). SYN. Schwægrichenia. ORD. Hæmodoraceæ. Greenhouse or half-hardy perennial herbs. Flowers large, racemose or corymbose; perianth tubular, elongated, woolly. Leaves linear ensiform. The species thrive in a turfy compost of peat and loam, three parts of the former to one of the latter; the whole intermixed with sand to make it porous. In the growing season they must be kept well watered, and somewhat dry during their period of rest in winter. They are very easily propagated by dividing the roots in spring.

=A. coccineus= (scarlet).* fl. scarlet; perianth swelling towards the summit, hairy, segments a little reflexed; disposed in dichotomously-forked panicles; pedicels rather long. June. l. lanceolate, deep green. Stem ciliated. h. 5ft. Swan River, 1837.

=A. flavidus= (yellowish-green-flowered).* fl. yellowish green, panicled; scapes long. May. l. lanceolate, smooth, as is also the stem; down of branches deciduous. h. 3ft. New Holland, 1808. There is a scarlet and green-flowered variety of this species. See Fig. 103.

=A. Manglesii= (Mangle's). fl. green; stigma capitate, projecting beyond the tube, in a short terminal spiked raceme. May. Stem erect, clothed with short thick crimson persistent velvety down. h. 3ft. Swan River, 1833.

=A. pulcherrimus= (beautiful).* fl. yellow; panicles much branched, clothed with rufous bristles. May. l. equitant, linear falcate, covered with stellate tomentum. h. 3ft. Swan River, 1844.

=A. tyrianthinus= (purple).* fl. purple and white; panicle clothed with purple tomentum. May. l. linear, stiff, straight, glabrous. Stem tall, ternate, panicled, clothed with hoary tomentum below. h. 3ft. Swan River, 1844.

=ANIL.= See =Indigofera Anil=.

=ANIME RESIN.= See =Hymenæa Courbaril=.

=ANIMATED OAT.= See =Avena sterilis=.

=ANISANTHUS.= See =Antholyza=.

=ANISE= (Pimpinella Anisum). A hardy annual, occasionally used for garnishing or seasoning. Sow seed, in ordinary garden soil, on a warm sunny border, in May, where it is intended for the plants to remain.

=ANISEED TREE.= See =Illicium=.

=ANISOCHILUS= (from anisos, unequal, and cheilos, a lip; in reference to the inequality of both lips of calyx and corolla). ORD. Labiatæ. A very ornamental genus of stove perennials or biennials. Whorls of flowers densely imbricate into oblong cylindrical spikes; corolla with an exserted, defracted tube, inflated throat, and bilabiate limb. They thrive in any light rich soil. Cuttings will root in a sandy soil under a bell glass, in heat; seeds may be sown in February in heat.

=A. carnosum= (fleshy). fl. lilac; whorls densely imbricate into oblong cylindrical pedunculate spikes. June to September. l. petiolate, ovate-roundish, obtuse, crenated, cordate at the base, thick, fleshy, tomentose on both surfaces. Stem erect. h. 2ft. East Indies, 1788.

=ANISOMELES= (from anisos, unequal, and melos, a member; in reference to the anthers of the longer stamens being halved). ORD. Labiatæ. Ornamental greenhouse or evergreen stove shrubs, herbaceous perennials, or annuals. Whorls sometimes densely many-flowered, at others few, and loose; corolla with upper lip erect, oblong, entire; lower lip larger, spreading, and lateral lobes ovate, obtuse. They are of very easy culture in light rich soil; young cuttings strike freely in spring, in heat, under a bell glass. A. furcata requires little or no artificial heat, but the protection of a bell glass is beneficial. Seeds of A. ovata may be sown in spring, in heat, and, after due hardening off, the seedlings may be planted outside in May.

=A. furcata= (forked).* fl. small, elegantly variegated with white, red, and purple, in loose many-flowered racemose cymes. July. l. petiolate, ovate, acuminated, crenated, cordate at the base, hispid on both surfaces. h. 4ft. to 6ft. Nepaul, 1824.

=A. malabarica= (Malabar). fl. purplish; whorls distant, many-flowered, dense. July. l. oblong-lanceolate, 2in. to 4in. in length, obtuse, serrately crenated in the upper part, quite entire at the base. h. 2ft. to 5ft. Tropical Asia, in humid places, 1817. Shrub.

=A. ovata= (ovate-leaved).* fl. purple; lower lip of a deeper colour; whorls many-flowered, lower ones distant, upper ones interruptedly spicate. August. l. ovate, obtuse, broadly crenated. h. 2ft. to 3ft. Nepaul, 1823. An annual. Habitat similar to last.

=ANISOMEROUS.= Unequally-parted; unsymmetrical.

=ANISOPETALUM.= See =Bulbophyllum=.

=ANNUALS.= All plants which spring from the seed, flower, and die within the course of a year. A number of things, however, which are not strictly of annual duration, but which are sown every year in preference to housing the roots before they are killed by late autumn or winter frosts, are generally classed, for the sake of convenience, under the head of Annuals. Hardy Annuals are those which require no artificial aid to enable them to develop, but grow and flower freely in the open air. These are best sown in the spots where they are intended to remain during March and April, and care must subsequently be taken to keep the ground clear of weeds, and also to thin out the seedlings, allowing each sufficient room to develop and exhibit its true character. If allowed to remain too crowded, the plants, as a matter of course, suffer, and the size and number of the flowers and the general effect are considerably decreased. Successional sowings of a good many of the showy species will be found to prolong their flowering season. In well-kept establishments, where Annuals are duly appreciated, several sowings are made in pots at intervals of a few weeks. As the previously-sown clumps begin to get shabby, they are removed, and replaced by others which have still to flower. By this means a continual sheet of blossom can be maintained for a long time. It is much better to trust to plants grown in pots in order to carry out the plan just sketched, as these receive no check when placed in their new quarters; whilst transplanted clumps frequently fail, and many species do not transplant at all readily from an open border. In order to secure, in early spring, a fine show of such plants as several of the Silenes, Myosotis, Saponaria, and a number of others, it is best to sow the seeds in an open, sheltered border, about the end of July or beginning of August, taking care to keep a small reserve stock in a cold frame, in case very severe weather kills the unprotected plants. Half-hardy Annuals are those for which our climate is not sufficiently warm, or, rather, our summer is not, as a rule, either hot enough or long enough, to allow them to grow, flower well, and ripen seeds, if sown in the open air. Many of these are amongst the showiest of garden plants, so it is worth while to give them the shelter of a warm frame during their earlier stages, and gradually harden them off, planting out at the end of May or beginning of June, when danger resulting from severe weather is passed. After germination, the seedlings should have plenty of light and air, or a weak, spindly growth, and, as a consequence, poor flowers, will result. The most satisfactory method of watering very tiny seeds is to place a piece of fine muslin over the seed-pot, through which the water will be easily conveyed to the seeds, and thus prevent disturbance. Tender Annuals require the same treatment as the half-hardy ones, except that they need throughout their existence the protection of a glass structure. All, or nearly all, garden Annuals delight in full sunlight and plenty of air. In the open, these requirements, as a rule, obtain, but sometimes mistakes are made under glass by keeping the plants too close and over much shaded, as well as too great a distance from the glass.

=ANNULAR.= Having a ring-like form.

=ANNULATE.= With the appearance of rings.

=ANŒCTOCHILUS= (from anoiktos, open, and cheilos, a lip; in reference to the spreading apex of the lip). SYNS. Anecochilus, Chrysobaphus. ORD. Orchideæ. Stove terrestrial orchids, the radical leaves of which are the chief attraction, being amongst the most beautiful and delicate objects in the vegetable kingdom. The flowers, which should be pinched off so soon as they appear, are, as a rule, small and unattractive. Few of the species exceed 6in. in height, with leaves from 2in. to 6in. long, including the fleshy petioles. They require a good deal of attention. To one part of silver sand, thoroughly washed twice or three times, add two of sphagnum, which should also be well washed and picked over, when it should be chopped into minute particles, in order that it may freely amalgamate with the sand; mix a little loam and peat with the whole. In the pots, when well drained by first placing a large piece of potsherd over the bottom and nearly half filling up with pieces broken small and of uniform size, place a thin layer of crude sphagnum, afterwards filling firmly with the mixture above mentioned, and bringing it up more or less in the form of a cone above the rim of the pot, into which the plants should be firmly fixed. Plants which have been propagated by division should be carefully transferred to 32-sized pots. About five separate pieces might be placed evenly over the surface. Make holes with a neat dibble, and into these drop the roots their entire length, pressing the soil firmly with the dibble. Fix them so that they may grow inwardly, and not out over the rim of the pots, pegging each creeping root needing such attention firmly down upon the surface of the soil afterwards; after a good soaking, they may be replaced in any warm, shady situation. For propagating, a strong plant is necessary; it may be cut into pieces just below the first joint, each piece having a root. The bottom piece should have two eyes--one to root from, and the other to push into a shoot. The "bottom," or plant which has been cut, should be replaced in its pot, and then put under a bell glass. It will soon throw up a young shoot; this ought to be left on until well rooted, when it may be separated and treated similarly to the portion first removed, still leaving the old part in the pot. These plants must be grown in glass cases, or under bell glasses, but they should always have a little air, for, as Mr. Williams says, when too much confined, they grow up spindly, and damp off in the stem; the latter, being fleshy, requires more substance and sturdiness. Air should be admitted through a space of about 1in. or 2in. The following ranges of temperature are advised: Winter, night, 55deg. to 60deg.; day, 65deg. to 70deg. during March, April, and May; night, 60deg. to 70deg.; and, afterwards, a few degrees higher, with a maximum day temperature of 80deg. Bottom heat should not be given, as it induces a weak, fast growth. Great care will be needed to prevent ravages of insects. The most suitable month for repotting is March, just before growth commences, when the plants will need plenty of water up to October, excepting when it is desirous to utilise them as drawing-room ornaments, in which case they should be kept rather dry for a short time previous. See also =Dossinia=, =Goodyera=, =Hæmeria=, =Macodes=, =Physurus=, and =Zeuxine=.

=A. argenteus pictus= (silvery-painted). A synonym of Physurus pictus.

=A. argyroneurus= (silvery-veined).* l. light green, dark mottled; veins forming a beautiful silvery network. Java.

=A. Boylei= (Boyle's).* l. ovate, acuminate, 2in. long and broad, olive-green, netted and pencilled with gold. India.

=A. Bullenii= (Bullen's).* l. 2-1/2 in. long, ground colour bronzy green, with three broad distinct lines of coppery-red, or golden stripes running the entire length. Borneo, 1861.

=A. concinnus= (neat). l. ovate, acuminate, rounded at base, dark olive-green, netted and striped with shining coppery-red. Assam.

=A. Dawsonianus= (Dawson's).* l. ovate, of a dark velvety, rich olive-green, traversed by about seven longitudinal copper-coloured veins; the space on each side of the midrib being filled with fine reticulations of the same colour. Malay Archipelago, 1868. The proper name of this plant is Hæmeria discolor Dawsoniana.

=A. Dayi= (Day's). A synonym of Dossinia marmorata Dayi.

=A. Dominii= (Dominy's). l. dark olive-green, streaked down the centre with pale coppery-yellow, the main ribs marked by pale lines. Hybrid between Goodyera discolor and A. Friderici Augusti.

=A. Eldorado= (Eldorado). l. dark green, with small tracery of a lighter colour, deciduous. Central America.

=A. Friderici-Augusti= (Frederick Augustus').* l. 2-1/2in. long, and 1-1/2in. broad, dark velvety green, with broad orange and green stripes down the centre, covered with a beautiful golden network. h. 5in. Very distinct. See Fig. 104. SYN. A. xanthophyllus.

=A. Heriotii= (Heriot's). l. 3-1/2in. long, 2-1/2in. broad, dark mahogany-colour, golden-reticulated, and with shadowy network. India.

=A. hieroglyphicus= (hieroglyphic-marked). l. small, dark green, with hieroglyphic-like, silvery-grey blotches. Assam.

=A. intermedius= (intermediate).* l. 2-1/2in. long, and 1-1/2in. broad, with a silky surface, dark olive, striped and veined with gold. h. 3in. Will succeed with a glass covering, in a stove, if shaded.

=A. javanicus= (Java). fl. pink, small, spicate; scape 9in. high. l. 2in. long, 1-1/2in. broad, dark olive-green, with lighter blotches and faint golden reticulation, pinkish beneath. Java.

=A. latimaculatus= (broad-spotted).* l. dark green, with silvery markings. Borneo. A distinct and free-growing kind.

=A. Lowii= (Low's).* l. 4in. to 5in. long, 3in. broad, dark velvety-green, shading to orange-brown, lined from base to apex with deep golden veins, crossed by lines of the same hue. h. 6in. Borneo. The correct name of this plant is Dossinia marmorata.

=A. L. virescens= (greenish).* l. brighter green, with brighter markings over the whole surface.

=A. Ordianus= (Ordi's).* l. shape and habit of A. Dawsonianus, but the colour is a vivid green, and lined with golden veins. Java, 1869. The proper name of this plant is Hæmeria discolor Ordiana.

=A. pictus= (painted). A synonym of Physurus pictus.

=A. querceticola= (forest-dwelling). A synonym of Physurus querceticolus.

=A. regalis= (royal).* King Plant. l. 2in. long, 1-1/2in. broad; surface a beautiful velvety green, veined in regular lines, and covered with a network of gold. h. 4in. Java, 1836. If examined with a lens in sunshine, the beauty of the network will be plainly seen. SYN. A. setaceus (of gardens). There are several varieties, the best of which are:

=A. r. cordatus= (heart-shaped). l. rounder, and gold markings broader. Very rare.

=A. r. grandifolius= (large-leaved).* l. light green, beautifully laced and banded with a network of gold. Also rare.

=A. r. inornatus= (unadorned). l. dark rich velvety, with a few slight markings, destitute of the golden reticulation. Java.

=A. Reinwardtii= (Reinwardt's).* l. rich, deep velvety-bronze, intersected with bright golden lines. Java.

=A. Roxburghii= (Roxburgh's).* l. 2-1/2in. long, 1-1/2in. broad, dark velvety-green, striated with well-defined lines of silver. h. 3in. India. The true species is very rare; several are sold as such.

=A. Ruckerii= (Rucker's).* l. broadly ovate-bronzy-green, with six rows of distinct spots running from base to apex. Borneo, 1861.

=A. setaceus= (bristly). A garden synonym of A. regalis.

=A. striatus= (striated). A synonym of Zeuxine regia.

=A. Turneri= (Turner's).* l. large, rich bronze, freely golden-reticulated. One of the handsomest; a very free grower.

=A. Veitchii= (Veitch's). A synonym of Macodes Petola.

=A. xanthophyllus= (yellow-leaved). A synonym of A. Friderici-Augusti.

=A. zebrinus= (striped).* l. ovate-lanceolate, deep olive green, with copper-coloured veins. India, 1863. Dwarf and elegant.

=ANOMATHECA= (from anomos, singular, and theca, a capsule, or seed-pod). ORD. Irideæ. Very pretty little bulbous perennials. Perianth hypocrateriform; tube triquetrous, constricted at the throat. The species are hardy when planted in warm sunny situations in the open border. Their dwarf stature, brilliance, profusion of flowers, and habit of blossoming continuously over a long period, render them very popular subjects amongst growers of hardy perennials. Although generally credited with being hardy, when cultivated out of doors they should be lifted and stored in frost-proof quarters before winter commences, until the following March. They are excellent as window garden plants, and also for pot culture. If grown in pots, they should be shaken out, and repotted in February or March. They multiply very rapidly, and may be divided in patches, not by single bulbs, once yearly. Light sandy loam, mixed with a little leaf mould, is the best compost. Anomathecas are sometimes increased by seed, which may be sown so soon as ripe, very thinly, in seed pans. Thin out the seedlings if growing very close together; the next season they may be put out four or five in a pot. When they become crowded, shift into a much larger pot, but do not disturb the ball. The young seedlings will probably produce flowers the second season.

=A. cruenta= (bloody).* fl. rich carmine-crimson; perianth segments elliptical, three lower ones broader than the others, with a dark blotch at the base; tube long, whitish; scapes secund, bearing about five or six flowers. Summer and autumn. l. two-ranked, about 1/2in. broad, sword-shape, somewhat tapering. Bulb ovate, rather large. h. 6in. to 12in. Cape of Good Hope, 1830.

=A. juncea= (rushy). fl. very bright pink, with a dark spot at the base, produced in profusion. The leaves are narrower than those of the foregoing. Cape of Good Hope, 1791. A rare species.

=ANONA= (Anona is the name applied to these plants in St. Domingo). Custard Apple. ORD. Anonaceæ. Stove evergreen shrubs, with fragrant leaves. Petals six, in two rows. Carpels indefinite, joined into one fleshy, many-celled, edible, roundish fruit, with a muricated, scaly, or reticulated skin. Anonas thrive best in rich loamy soil, mixed with a little peat. Ripened cuttings, with leaves intact, will root if inserted in sand and placed under a hand glass, in a moist heat. When seeds are procurable, they should be sown in pots, and plunged into a hotbed.

=A. Cherimolia= (The Cherimoyer). fl. outer petals somewhat concave, linear-oblong, brown on the outside, each marked with a dark spot at the base; peduncles opposite the leaves, solitary. July. fr. somewhat globose and scaly, dark purple; esteemed by the Peruvians as one of their most delicate, and as being not inferior to any fruit in the world. l. ovate-lanceolate, not dotted; under surface silky tomentose, strong scented. h. 20ft. Peru, 1739.

=A. glabra= (smooth-fruited).* fl. outer petals ovate, obtuse, brown; calyx leathery, large; peduncles opposite the leaves, two-flowered. July. fr. greenish-yellow, conoid, blunt, smooth. l. ovate-lanceolate, smooth. h. 10ft. West Indies, 1774.

=A. longifolia= (long-leaved). fl. purplish; outer petals concave, thick, all acute, large, axillary, solitary, stalked. May. fr. ovate-globose, dotted, and reticulated, flesh-coloured. l. oblong, acuminated, mucronate, smooth. h. 20ft. Guiana, 1820.

=A. muricata= (muricated-fruited).* The Sour Sop. fl. outer petals cordate, concave, thick, acuminated, green on the outside, yellow inside, and spotted; peduncles solitary, one-flowered, sweet-scented. fr. muricated, with fleshy points, green. l. ovate-lanceolate, smooth, shining. h. 15ft. West Indies, 1656.

=A. palustris= (marsh). Alligator Apple; Cork-wood. fl. yellow; petals all acute. fr. rather areolate, large, heart-shaped, sweet-scented. l. ovate-oblong, leathery, quite smooth. h. 10ft. to 20ft. South America, 1788.

=A. reticulata= (netted). The Custard Apple, or Bullock's Heart. fl. outer petals oblong-lanceolate, acute, somewhat concave at the base, brownish on the outside, whitish-yellow on the inside, marked with dark purple spots. fr. ovate-globose, reticulate, as large as a tennis ball, with yellowish soft flesh; it is much esteemed by some people. l. oblong-lanceolate, acute, smooth, somewhat dotted. h. 15ft. to 25ft. Brazil, 1690.

=A. squamosa= (scaly). Sweet Sop. fl., outer petals linear-oblong, somewhat concave at the base, nearly closing, greenish-yellow. fr. egg-shaped, scaly. l. oblong, bluntish, smooth, full of pellucid dots, rather glaucous beneath. h. 20ft. South America, 1739.

=ANONACEÆ.= An order of trees or shrubs, mostly tropical, with axillary peduncles, lateral or opposite the leaves, and with alternate, simple, entire or hardly toothed leaves, without stipules. Anona is the typical genus.

=ANONYMO.= A synonym of =Saururus= (which see).

=ANONYMOS BRACTEATA.= See =Zornia tetraphylla=.

=ANOPLANTHUS= (in part). A synonym of =Phelipæa= (which see).

=ANOPLOPHYTUM.= See =Schlumbergeria= and =Tillandsia=.

=ANOPTERUS= (from ano, upwards, and pteron, a wing; in reference to the seeds, which are winged at the apex). ORD. Saxifrageæ. A very handsome greenhouse evergreen shrub, having a free branching habit, large dark shining green leaves, and long panicles of salver-shaped flowers. It would probably prove quite hardy in the south and west of England, and parts of Scotland, provided it had a slight winter protection. It grows well in sandy loam and peat. When grown in pots, it requires plenty of room and water. Half-ripened cuttings root freely under a bell glass in a cool house or frame in summer.

=A. glandulosa= (glandular).* fl. white, rose tinted, large; racemes erect, simple, terminal. April, May. l. alternate, rarely nearly opposite, ovate-oblong, attenuated at both ends, nearly sessile, leathery, toothed. h. 3ft. Van Diemen's Land, 1823.

=ANSELLIA= (named after Mr. Ansell, the botanical collector who accompanied the ill-fated Niger Expedition). ORD. Orchidaceæ. Strong growing, free flowering stove epiphytal orchids. Best grown in large pots, as they produce a quantity of roots. They require a compost of turfy peat, with moderate drainage. An ample supply of water during the growing season is needed; but care must be taken not to let any remain in the heart of the plants, as they are very likely to rot. During the season of rest, little or no water, but a damp atmosphere, are the chief requirements. Propagated by divisions of the bulbs just after flowering.

=A. africana= (African).* fl., sepals and petals nearly 2in. long, greenish yellow, spotted with brownish red; lip small, yellow; spikes large, drooping, branched, each sometimes bearing nearly a hundred blooms. Stems 3ft. to 4ft. high, with light evergreen foliage. Fernando Po, 1844. Lasts two months in perfection.

=A. a. gigantea= (gigantic).* fl. on upright spikes from the top of the pseudo-bulbs, but smaller, of a light yellow tint, with very few narrow, transverse, brown bars, and a deep yellow lip, without warts of any kind on its middle lobe, and with more or less crenulated keels. Natal, 1847. The perfume is very peculiar. Very rare.

=A. a. lutea= (yellow). Not so strong a grower; producing clusters of light yellow flowers from the top of the pseudo-bulbs. Natal.

=A. a. nilotica= (Nile district).* As a garden plant this is much superior to the type. The habit is dwarfer, the colours of the flowers brighter and more distinctly defined. The sepals and petals, too, are more spreading. Eastern Africa.

=ANSERINA.= See =Potentilla anserina=.

=ANTENNÆ.= Two movable, articulated organs attached to the heads of insects and crustacea, commonly called "horns" or "feelers." They are variable in form and length. Antennæ seem to serve for touch, and, perhaps, for smell and hearing.

=ANTENNARIA= (from antennæ; in reference to the similarity which exists between the seed down of the plant and the antennæ, or feelers, of an insect). ORD. Compositæ. Hardy herbaceous perennials, distinguished by the dry, coloured, chaffy scales encircling each head of flowers, of which the stamens and pistils are on different plants. These are charming little alpine plants, admirably adapted for rockwork, pots, edgings, or borders, in any light soil. Propagated by divisions of the roots in spring, and seeds; the latter should be sown in spring in a cold frame. Grown chiefly for their leaves.

=A. dioica= (diœcious).* fl.-heads pink, in crowded corymbs, 3in. to 4in. high. June. l. radical ones spathulate, woolly chiefly beneath; upper ones lanceolate. Stems simple; shoots procumbent. Britain. The two or three varieties of this pretty species exceed the type in beauty. SYN. Gnaphalium dioicum.

=A. d. hyperborea= (northern). l. woolly on both surfaces.

=A. d. minima= (smallest).* A very small growing variety.

=A. margaritacea= (pearly).* fl.-heads white, corymbose. August. l. linear-lanceolate, acute, alternate, cottony, especially beneath. Stems branched above. h. 2ft. Naturalised in England and on the Continent. Said to have been introduced from America about the sixteenth century. The prettier but much rarer A. triplinervis, from Nepaul, comes close to this species. See Fig. 105.

=A. tomentosa= (downy).* fl.-heads corymbose. Summer. One of the dwarfest and best of silvery-leaved plants, either as an edging for small beds or for covering the higher portions of rockwork; it is much used in carpet bedding. It scarcely grows more than 1in. high, and forms a dense carpet in a short space of time. It should be grown separate from other plants. It is frequently known under the name of A. candida.

=ANTERIOR.= Placed in front, or outwards.

=ANTHEMIS= (from anthemon, a flower; referring to their general floriferous character). Camomile. ORD. Compositæ. Receptacle convex, chaffy. Involucre hemispherical or nearly flat; scales imbricated, membranaceous at the margin. Pappus none; ray florets ligulate; disk tubular. This is a large genus, principally of medicinal value, and contains very few species worth the cultivator's trouble. Of easy culture in any ordinary soil. Propagated by divisions.

=A. Aizoon= (Aizoon).* fl.-heads resembling a white Daisy; florets of the ray fourteen to eighteen, trifid, twice as long as the breadth of the disk. Summer. l. lanceolate, or broadly so, acutely and deeply serrated, narrowed towards the base, covered with white down; lower ones crowded; stem-leaves rather acute, gradually lessening in size. h. 2in. to 4in. Northern Greece. Free grower, dwarf, and compact.

=A. Biebersteinii= (Bieberstein's).* fl.-heads yellow. Summer. l. pinnately divided into linear three-lobed segments, which are covered with white silky pubescence. h. 1ft. to 2ft. Caucasus.

=A. Chamomilla fl. pl.= See =Matricaria=.

=A. nobilis= (noble). Common Chamomile. fl.-heads solitary; disk yellow; ray white; scales of the receptacle membranaceous, scarcely longer than the disk. l. bipinnate, segments linear-subulate, a little downy. Stem procumbent, and much branched. England. A very strong smelling plant, of great medicinal value. For culture, see =Chamomile=.

=A. tinctoria= (dyer's). fl. bright yellow, in large heads. July and August. l. bipinnatifid, serrate, downy beneath. Stem angular. h. 1-1/2ft. England. A very pretty plant.

=ANTHER.= The male part of a flower containing the pollen.

=ANTHERICUM= (from anthos, a flower and kerkos, a hedge; in reference to the tall flower stems). SYN. Phalangium. ORD. Liliaceæ. A large genus, belonging to the capsular group of the order, and inhabiting, for the most part, the Cape of Good Hope. Flowers white, racemose or panicled, scapose; perianth segments either spreading from near the base or campanulately united; stamens short, with naked or bearded filaments. Leaves radical, filiform or linear. The hardy varieties are now extensively grown, and are among the most ornamental of border plants. They thrive best in rich light soil, and are excellent subjects for pot culture; for which purpose use a compost of fibrous loam, leaf mould, or well-decayed manure, and coarse sand. The pots should be about 12in. across, well drained, and the plants potted just previous to, or so soon as, growth commences. During activity, plenty of water is needed, until the plants have finished flowering, when the quantity may be lessened; but never allow them to get dry. Propagated by division of the roots or seeds, sowing the latter, as early as possible after they are ripe, in a cold frame.

=A. graminifolium= (grass-leaved). A garden name of A. ramosum.

=A. Hookeri= (Hooker's). See =Chrysobactron Hookeri=.

=A. Liliago= (Liliago).* St. Bernard's Lily. fl. pure white, 1in. to 1-1/2in. across; perianth segments spreading; style curved. May to August. l. tufted, narrow, channelled, 12in. to 18in. high. South Europe, 1596. A very free flowering species, of which there is a major variety in gardens. SYNS. Phalangium and Watsonia Liliago.

=A. Liliastrum= (Liliaster).* St. Bruno's Lily. fl. much larger than the last, 2in. long, and as much across, fragrant, of a transparent whiteness, with a delicate green spot on the point of each segment, campanulate, arranged in loose spikes. Early summer. l. long, narrow, six or eight to each plant, about 1ft. to 2ft. long, h. 1ft. to 2ft. South Europe, 1629. SYNS. Czackia Liliastrum and Paradisia Liliastrum (this is the correct name). See Fig. 106.

=A. L. major= (greater). fl. about 1in. larger than the type. h. about 6ft. A very desirable border plant.

=A. ramosum= (branched).* fl. white, rather smaller than those of A. Liliago; perianth segments narrow and spreading; style straight; flower stems much branched. June. l. long, narrow, channelled, grass-like. h. 2ft. South Europe, 1570. A rapid grower. SYN. A. graminifolium (of gardens).

=A. serotinum= (late-flowering). See =Lloydia=.

=A. variegatum= (variegated). l. keeled, grass-like, striped and margined with white. South Africa, 1875. Half hardy. The proper name of this plant is Chlorophytum elatum variegatum. SYNS. A. Williamsii and Phalangium argenteo-lineare.

=A. Williamsii= (Williams'). Synonymous with A. variegatum.

=ANTHERIDIA.= The reproductive organs in cryptogamic plants, analogous to anthers in flowering plants.

=ANTHERIFEROUS.= Bearing anthers.

=ANTHESIS.= The opening period of flowers.

=ANTHOCARPOUS.= Bearing a fruit resulting from many flowers.

=ANTHOCERCIS= (from anthos, a flower, and kerkis, a ray; in reference to the radiated corolla). ORD. Solanaceæ. Handsome greenhouse evergreen shrubs, with alternate leaves, attenuated into the petioles or base, thick, sometimes glandularly dotted. Flowers axillary, generally solitary; corolla campanulate. Cuttings strike freely in sand under a bell glass, with a mild bottom heat. So soon as they have well rooted, pot off into very small pots in two-thirds good loam and one of peat. After having made a little headway, the leading shoots should be pinched off, to induce a lateral growth; they may be transferred to pots a size larger when the roots have filled the first pot. Continue growing throughout the summer in frames or in the greenhouse, near the glass, allowing plenty of air. Vigorous growth should be checked; thus encouraging bushy plants.

=A. albicans= (whitish-leaved).* fl. white, streaked with bluish-purple inside the tube, fragrant; petals longer than the tube. April. l. oblong, obtuse, densely tomentose on both surfaces, as well as the branches. h. 1-1/2ft. to 2ft. New South Wales, 1824.

=A. floribunda= (many-flowered). fl. white. h. 3ft. New South Wales.

=A. ilicifolia= (Holly-leaved). fl. yellowish green. June. h. 6ft. Swan River, 1843.

=A. littorea= (shore). fl. white. June. h. 3ft. New Holland, 1803.

=A. viscosa= (clammy).* fl. large, white. May. l. obovate, glandularly dotted with scabrous margins; young leaves and branches clothed with fine down. h. 4ft. to 6ft. New Holland, 1822.

=ANTHOLOMA= (from anthos, a flower, and loma, a fringe; in allusion to the fringed or crenulated limb of the corolla). ORD. Tiliaceæ. A very fine greenhouse evergreen tree; it thrives best in a light loamy soil, mixed with a little peat. Cuttings of ripened wood will strike root in sand, under a hand glass.

=A. montana= (mountain).* fl. white; corolla ovately cylindrical, with a crenate, rather toothed margin; racemes axillary, somewhat umbellate, reflexed. May. l. elliptical-oblong, leathery, stalked, scattered at the top of the branchlets. h. 20ft. New Caledonia, 1810.

=ANTHOLYZA= (from anthos, a flower, and lyssa, rage; in reference to the opening of the flowers, which resemble the mouth of an enraged animal). SYN. Petamenes. Including Anisanthus. ORD. Irideæ. A very pretty genus of bulbous plants from the Cape of Good Hope, having narrow, erect, Iris-like leaves, and flower-spikes that over-top the foliage, bearing numerous bright-coloured flowers. Perianth tubular, six-cleft, unequal, the upper segments longest; stamens three. The species may be grown in a greenhouse, or planted out in a frame. They also thrive excellently out of doors, and should be planted 8in. or 9in. deep for fear of frost, or have a winter protection of several inches of cocoa-nut fibre refuse or litter. The safer plan is to raise the roots, winter them in some dry part of the greenhouse; but, previous to storing, divide the clumps, clean them, and re-plant or pot in February, or early in March. A mixture of equal parts peat, sandy loam, and leaf soil is most suitable for their culture. Just previous to flowering, if in pots, frequent doses of weak manure water will be found beneficial. They may be propagated by offsets, which are produced in abundance, at almost any time. Seeds are sometimes procured, which should be sown so soon as ripe, in light soil, in a cool house, where they will germinate the following spring, and will be fit to plant out in the summer of the same year. With the exception of A. Cunonia, they all much resemble each other. Only four or five species of this genus are worth cultivating.

=A. æthiopica= (Æthiopian).* fl. scarlet and green. June. h. 3ft. 1759. SYNS. A. floribunda, A. præalta.

=A. æ. ringens= (gaping). fl. red and yellow, rather smaller than those of the type. SYN. A. vittigera.

=A. bicolor= (two-coloured). Synonymous with A. Cunonia.

=A. caffra= (Caffrarian).* fl. rich scarlet; spike distichous, many-flowered. June. l. long, linear, or linear-ensiform. h. 2ft. 1828. A very showy and pretty species, but rarely seen in our gardens. SYN. Anisanthus splendens.

=A. Cunonia= (Cunon's).* fl. scarlet and black, a combination of colours uncommon among bulbous plants; spikes secund. June. h. 2ft. 1756. SYN. Anisanthus Cunonia.

=A. floribunda= (much-flowered). A synonym of A. æthiopica.

=A. præalta= (very tall). Synonymous with A. æthiopica.

=A. vittigera= (glandular). Synonymous with A. æ. ringens.

=ANTHOMYIA.= See =Beet Fly=, =Cabbage Fly=, and =Onion Fly=.

=ANTHONOMUS.= See =Grubs=.

=ANTHOSPERMUM= (from anthos, a flower, and sperma, a seed). Amber Tree. ORD. Rubiaceæ. An ornamental greenhouse evergreen shrub from the Cape of Good Hope. It thrives in peat, loam, and sand, with a summer temperature of 50deg. to 65deg., and winter, 40deg. to 45deg. Increased by cuttings, in sand, under a bell glass. There are above twenty other species belonging to this genus.

=A. æthiopicum= (Æthiopian).* fl. diœcious, male brownish, and the female ones green, disposed in verticillate spikes. June. l. linear-lanceolate, three in a whorl, shining above, glabrous beneath, about 1/4in. long. Stem much branched, downy above. h. 2ft. to 3ft. 1692.

=ANTHOTAXIS.= The arrangement of flowers on an inflorescence.

=ANTHOXANTHUM= (from anthos, a flower, and xanthus, yellow). Spring Grass. Calyx of two valves, glumaceous, one-flowered; corolla double, each of two valves: the exterior awned; the interior small, awnless; stamens two, not three, as is usually the case with grasses. ORD. Gramineæ. A pretty native hardy perennial, of easy culture in common garden soil.

=A. odoratum= (sweet). fl. panicle spiked, oblong, dense, becoming dullish yellow. l. short, pale green. h. 1ft. The pleasant smell of new-made Hay is chiefly owing to this plant, which in drying emits an odour similar to that of Asperula odorata. See Fig. 107.

=ANTHURIUM= (from anthos, a flower, and oura, a tail; referring to the inflorescence). ORD. Aroideæ. Flowers densely disposed on a cylindrical spadix, at the base of which is a large bract-like spathe, that ultimately bends backwards. Leaves of various shapes. This very large genus of handsome stove and greenhouse plants is remarkable both for the peculiar inflorescence and often noble leaves, and is distinguished in structure from all the European members of the order in the flowers being hermaphrodite. Fibry peat, loam, sphagnum, broken crocks, or charcoal, and silver sand, form the most suitable compost. In preparing the peat, it should be broken up into small lumps, and then have most of the earthy matter knocked out of it by giving it a few raps with a stick, or by shaking it about in a sieve. To this, after so treated, add about one-fourth its bulk of sphagnum, and about half its bulk of fibrous loam, and just a sprinkling of fresh broken crocks, or small pieces of charcoal and sharp silver sand. In placing them in the pots--—which must be well drained--—carefully spread out the roots and work the mixture among them, keeping the plant well up, so that when finished it stands clear above the rim of the pot at least 2in. or 3in., and forms a kind of mound or hillock. They must then be kept freely syringed or watered, and placed in a moist atmosphere, where they can enjoy a temperature ranging between 60deg. and 70deg., or a few degrees lower for the less tender species. Raising plants from seed requires patience. About a year elapses from the time the flowers are fertilised--—which should be done artificially--before the seed ripens, and often another to get up plants. Sow as soon as ripe in shallow, well-drained pans or pots, filled with the potting mixture, and cover slightly, and place in a close, moist propagating case, where a temperature of from 75deg. to 85deg. is maintained, or they may be covered with bell glasses. The principal thing is to keep the air about them constantly humid, and the material in which they are sown in a uniformly moist condition; if this is done, the young seedlings will make their appearance in due course. When these are of sufficient size to handle, they should be pricked off in the same sort of compost, and be kept close and moist till they get a start, after which gradually inure them to more air. January is the best month of the year wherein to propagate these plants by divisions. This is done by carefully turning them out of their pots and shaking out what soil they have amongst their roots, which must be tenderly dealt with, so as not to bruise or injure them. This done, they may then be pulled apart, and as many plants made as there are separate crowns, or the mass may be simply halved or quartered, according to the stock required. Treat now as recommended above for potting. They are all moisture-loving plants, and must have a copious supply of water at all times, although, of course, much less during the winter than spring and summer months. There is no season of the year when they can be handled for any purpose with less risk or check than January. A moderate moist stove heat is advisable for them generally. The species enumerated are selected from nearly 150, and will be found to be a very representative collection. See also =Spathiphyllum=.

=A. acaule= (stemless).* fl., spadix blue in a young state, borne on long footstalks, sweetly scented. Spring. l. broad, oblong, acuminate, 1ft. to 3ft. in length, erect, arranged in a rosulate manner, dark shining green on the upper surface, somewhat paler beneath. West Indies, 1853. A noble species.

=A. Andreanum= (André's).* fl., spadix about 3in. long, yellowish, with a broad central band of white; spathe open, cordate-ovate, orange red, leathery, 3in. to 4in. across, and 6in. to 9in. long; surface irregularly corrugated. l. ovate-lanceolate, deeply cordate, green. Columbia, 1876. A very beautiful species. See Fig. 108.

=A. Bakeri= (Baker's).* fl., spathe small, green, reflexed; the spadix, wherein lies the plant's principal beauty, exhibits a lovely combination of pink and bright scarlet; the fleshy rachis being pink, and the pea-sized fruits bright scarlet. July. l. linear, leathery, green, with stout midribs. Costa Rica, 1872.

=A. cordifolium= (cordate-leaved).* l. 3ft. long and 20in. broad, heart-shaped, deep shining green on the upper surface, and paler below. h. 4ft. New Grenada. One of the best, and may be grown in a greenhouse or even in a sheltered spot of the sub-tropical garden during July and August. A. Browni, although quite distinct, comes close to this species.

=A. coriaceum= (leathery).* l. very thick, leathery, ovate, about 2ft. long; petioles stout, about the same length. Brazil. An admirable sub-tropical species.

=A. crystallinum= (crystalline).* l. large, ovate-cordate, acuminate, bright rich velvety green, principal veins elegantly banded with pure crystal white; when young, the leaves are violet colour; petioles terete. h. 2ft. Columbia. See Fig. 109.

=A. cuspidatum= (cuspidate). fl., spathe crimson, reflexed, shorter than the purplish spadix. l. ovate-oblong, acuminate, 10in. to 20in. long, green. h. 2ft. to 3ft. Columbia.

A. ferrierense (Ferrières).* fl., spathe cordate, about 5in. long, and 4in. wide, bright red; spadix erect, about 4in. long, ivory white. l. large, cordate. A handsome hybrid between A. ornatum and A. Andreanum.

=A. fissum= (cut-leaved). fl., spathe green, erect, narrowly lanceolate-acuminate. l. cut into four to seven elliptic oblong-acuminate segments, green; petioles longish, terete. h. 2ft. Columbia, 1868.

=A. Harrisii pulchrum= (beautiful).* fl., spathe linear-lanceolate, creamy white, deflexed, and pinkish at top; spadix erect, deep crimson; scape about 1ft. long, pale green. l. lanceolate, rounded at the base, pale green, with confluent white markings intermixed with dark green. Stem short. Brazil, 1882. A beautiful variegated plant. The typical A. Harrisii is extremely rare.

=A. Hookeri= (Hooker's). fl., spathe green; spadix green or violet. l. obovate-spathulate, narrowed to a wedge-shaped base, and shortly stalked, shining, about 30in. long and 8in. broad. h. 3ft. Tropical America, 1840. SYNS. A. Huegelii, Pothos acaulis.

=A. Huegelii= (Huegel's). A synonym of A. Hookeri.

=A. insigne= (showy).* l. three-lobed, middle lobe lanceolate, the two lateral ones are nearly ovate, and have from three to five longitudinal ribs; when young, the leaves have a bronzy tinge; petioles terete, slightly sheathing at the base. Columbia, 1881. A very handsome species.

=A. Kalbreyeri= (Kalbreyer's).* l. palmate, about 2-1/2ft. across; leaflets nine, obovate-oblong, acuminate, sinuate, thick, glabrous, rich deep green, those furthest from the stem are much larger than those next the axis; petiole cylindrical, thickened at the top. New Grenada, 1881. A very handsome climbing species.

=A. lanceolatum= (lanceolate). fl., spathe lanceolate, deflexed, yellowish green; spadix dark brown. l. lanceolate, stalked, green, 1ft. long, narrowed to the base. There appears to be much confusion as regards this and many varieties of A. Harrisii; and the specific designation is indiscriminately applied to lanceolate-leaved forms generally. The true species was introduced to Kew from the West Indies. SYN. A. Wildenowii.

=A. leuconeurum= (white-nerved). Green. Mexico, 1862.

=A. Lindenianum= (Linden's).* fl. fragrant, spathe very pretty, white, not reflexed, but the pointed apex slightly arches over and shelters the white or purplish spadix. October. l. deeply cordate, of a roundish outline; petioles long. h. 3ft. Columbia, 1866. SYN. A. Lindigi (of gardens).

=A. Lindigi= (Lindig's). A garden synonym of A. Lindenianum.

=A. macrolobum= (large-lobed).* l. large, deflexed, cordate, acuminate, with an open sinus at the base, and about three acute marginal lobes, dark green, marked with about five pale green ribs; petioles green, terete. Stem erect, short. A fine hybrid.

=A. nymphæifolium= (Nymphæa-leaved). fl., spathe white; spadix purplish. Venezuela, 1854.

=A. ornatum= (adorned).* fl., spathe linear-oblong, white, 5in. to 6in. long, on terete green scapes, enclosing cylindrical purplish spadices of about the same length as the spathes, and studded with white points arranged spirally. Spring. l. ovate or oblong-cordate, on slender terete petioles. h. 2-1/2ft. Venezuela, 1869.

=A. regale= (royal).* l. large, cordate-acuminate, 1ft. to 3ft. long, dull metallic green, with white veins; young leaves tinged with rose, on long smooth footstalks. East Peru, 1866. An excellent species for conservatory or window decoration during summer.

=A. Scherzerianum= (Scherzer's).* fl. on bright red peduncles, which spring from among the base of the leafstalks; spathe ovate-oblong, 3in. long and nearly 2in. broad, intense and brilliant scarlet; spadix orange coloured. l. oblong-lanceolate, 12in. to 18in. long, and 2in. or more broad, deep rich green, leathery. Costa Rica. A very compact dwarf-growing evergreen about 1ft. high. It continues in beauty about four months. See Fig. 110.

=A. S. album= (white). A synonym of A. Scherzerianum Williamsii.

=A. S. maximum= (greater).* A very fine variety, with "gigantic flower spathes, which measure about 9in. in length by 4in. in breadth, and are of the most brilliant scarlet colour." See Fig. 111.

=A. S. pygmæum= (small).* Altogether smaller than the type, with narrow leaves, which are from 4in. to 6in. long, and about 1/2in. broad. It is one of the best varieties, and produces flowers very freely. 1880.

=A. S. Rothschildianum= (Rothschild's). fl., spathe creamy white, spotted with crimson; spadix yellow. 1880. Exactly intermediate between its parent plants--the typical species and the following variety.

=A. S. Wardii= (Ward's).* fl., spathe 6in. long, 4in. broad, very brilliant. l. broader and more robust than those of the typical species. A splendid variety.

=A. S. Williamsii= (Williams's).* fl., spathe white; spadix yellowish. May. l. lanceolate-acuminate. Costa Rica, 1874. SYN. A. Scherzerianum album.

=A. signatum= (well-marked). l. apparently three-lobed; front lobe about 1ft. long and 4in. wide; the two side ones 4in. long, and about 6in. from the midrib to the extremity, dark green; petioles about 1ft. long. Venezuela, 1858.

=A. spathiphyllum= (Spathiphyllum). fl., spathe about 1-3/4in. long, and nearly as much broad, erect, boat-shaped, broadly ovate, white; spadix nearly 1in. long, very obtuse, pale yellow. l. narrow lanceolate, 16in. to 24in. long, and about 2in. wide, bright green above, pale greyish green beneath; midrib prominent; petiole 3in. to 6in. long, trigonous. h. 1-1/2ft. Tropical America, 1875.

=A. splendidum= (splendid).* l. cordate, with an open sinus, the lobes meeting behind; "the course of the nerves is marked by a broadish band of deep lustrous velvety green, the intervening spaces of about equal width being in striking contrast, of a pale yellowish green; the leaf surface is scabrous, and the portions between the ribs strongly bullate, as if raised in papillose blisters; the veins on the under surface are angular, with tooth-like projections at intervals, while the whole under surface is punctuated with small pallid dots" (W. Bull). Stem short, thick. South America, 1882. A very beautiful species, quite distinct from any others of the genus. See Fig. 112.

=A. subsignatum= (nearly allied to Signatum).* l. thick and fleshy, hastate, with blunt points, 12in. to 18in. long, and as much in breadth at the widest part; dark shining green above, paler beneath; petioles about 1ft. long. h. 1-1/2ft. Costa Rica, 1861. An excellent species.

=A. tetragonum= (four-angled). l. erect, commences very narrow, 1ft. wide at its broadest part; margins undulate, deep shining green on the upper surface, paler below; petioles short, quadrangular. Tropical America, 1860. An excellent sub-tropical species.

=A. triumphans= (superior). fl., spathe narrow, green; spadix stout, greenish-white; peduncle quadrangular. l. alternate, elongately cordate, bright green; ribs prominent, and of a paler hue. Stem erect. Brazil, 1882. A handsome plant.

=A. Veitchii= (Veitch's).* l. ovate-oblong, greatly elongated, 2ft. to 3ft. long, with a breadth of less than one-third of these dimensions, leathery, deep green, with a glossy metallic surface when first expanded that becomes paler with age; the principal nerves are arched and deeply sunk, imparting a curiously waved appearance to the surface. h. 2-1/2ft. Columbia, 1877. Rare but very handsome.

=A. Waluiewi= (Walujew's).* l. broadly cordate, 12in. to 14in. long, 8in. to 10in. broad, olive metallic green, when young, bright reddish crimson; petioles four to five-angled. h. 2ft. Venezuela, 1880. A very distinct and noble species.

=A. Waroqueanum= (Waroque's).* l. elongated, from 24in. to sometimes 36in. long, and 8in. to 11in. broad, very rich deep green, of a velvety lustre; midribs and veins light, forming a very pleasing contrast. Columbia, 1878. A very free grower.

=A. Wildenowii= (Wildenow's). A synonym of A. lanceolatum.

It may be here remarked that by far the majority of species enumerated in the Supplement of Johnson's Dictionary are chiefly of botanical interest, and will, therefore, never become extensively cultivated.

=ANTHYLLIS= (from anthos, a flower, and ioulos, down; flowers usually downy). Kidney Vetch. ORD. Leguminosæ. Herbaceous or sub-shrubby plants, of variable habit. Flowers in spikes or heads; calyx tubular, five toothed, permanent after flowering, more or less inflated. Petals nearly equal. Although not extensively grown, all the species are very beautiful when in flower, the hardy sorts being admirably adapted for rockwork. The herbaceous perennials may be easily propagated by seed or division. The seeds of the annual kinds should be sown in a rather dry, warm situation in the open ground. The shrubby evergreens will need the protection of a frame or cool greenhouse in cold northern climates, and are best grown in a mixture of loam, sand, and peat. Young cuttings of most species will root in a pot of sandy soil, with a bell glass placed over them, in a cool house or frame.

=A. Barba-Jovis= (Jupiter's beard).* fl. pale yellow, numerous, in globose, bracteate heads. March. l. pinnate, and are as well as the branches, clothed with silky tomentum; leaflets nine to thirteen, oblong-linear. h. 4ft. to 8ft. Spain, 1640. Shrub.

=A. erinacea= (prickly).* fl. bluish-purple; heads few flowered, on short peduncles, bracteate. April. l. very few, oval, or oblong. h. 6in. to 12in. Spain, 1759. A much branched, spiny, almost leafless, and slow-growing species; hardy in a dry sunny position on the rockery. SYN. Erinacea hispanica.

=A. Hermanniæ= (Hermann's). fl. yellow; heads few flowered, nearly sessile in the axils of the upper leaves. April. l. almost sessile, simple, or trifoliate; leaflets oblong-cuneated, glabrous or clothed with adpressed pubescence. h. 2ft. to 4ft. Corsica, 1739. Shrubby, much branched.

=A. montana= (mountain).* fl. pink or purplish, in dense heads, on peduncles, with a leafy involucre. June. l. pinnate, and are as well as the branches, silky and hoary; leaflets numerous, oval-oblong, acute, small, entire. h. 3in. to 6in. Alps of Europe, 1769. A very handsome little rock plant, with a dwarf and tufted habit.

=A. tetraphylla= (four-leaved). fl. white; heads axillary, sessile, few flowered. July. l. pinnate, the terminal leaflets ovate and large, the other three small and acute. South Europe, 1640. A procumbent annual.

=A. Vulneraria= (Common Woundwort).* fl. generally yellow, sometimes white, red, or pinkish, in crowded twin heads. Summer. l. pinnate, with five or more unequal leaflets; the lower ones smallest. An elegant native herbaceous, perennial, admirably adapted for rockwork. It is plentiful in most dry pastures. There are several varieties, the best of which is alba.

=ANTIARIS TOXICARIA.= This is the famous Upas tree of Java, from which is obtained poison of a most deadly nature. It belongs to the NAT. ORD. Urticaceæ.

=ANTIGONON= (from anti, against, or opposite, and gonia, an angle). ORD. Polygonaceæ. Elegant stove climbers. Flowers racemose, cirrhose at the apex of the rachides; petals five, three outer ones broadly cordate, two inner oblong. Leaves alternate, cordate. Although extremely handsome plants, they are difficult to flower. They seem to succeed best when planted out in a very thoroughly drained border over hot-water pipes or flues, the long climbing stems being trained near the glass in full light.

=A. amabile= (lovely).* fl. bright rose, profusely borne in axillary and terminal racemes. l. 3in. to 5in. long, ovate-cordate, and deeply lobed at the base. It is of free slender growth, the young shoots are pubescent, and having a slight reddish tinge. An exceedingly attractive and effective species.

=A. guatemalensis= (Guatemala). Probably the same as A. insigne.

=A. insigne= (remarkable).* fl. very numerous, borne in tufts along the sides of long racemes or panicles, which terminate in branched tendrils; the calyx, which is the showy part of the flower, has five membranous sepals, the three outer are of a beautiful rosy pink colour, about 1in. in length by rather less in breadth, cordate at the base, oblong, rounded towards the apex; the two inner sepals about the same length as the outer ones, but much narrower, falcate, lanceolate; pedicels 3/4in. long. l. broadly ovate oblong, deeply cordate at the base, with two rounded lobes; 4in. by 3in., the upper ones smaller, supported on short terete downy stalks. Stems slender, angular, pubescent. Columbia, 1876.

A. leptopus (slender-stemmed). fl. numerous; the outer three sepals of a beautiful rose colour, the centre of a much deeper tint; racemes secund, bearing several coloured bracts as well as flowers, and end in a branched tendril. l. alternate, cordate, petiolate. Stem slender, sub-pubescent. Mexico, 1868.

=ANTIGRAMME.= See =Scolopendrium=.

=ANTIRRHINUM= (from anti, like, and rhin, a nose or snout; alluding to the shape of the corolla). Snapdragon. ORD. Scrophulariaceæ. Hardy herbaceous plants. Flowers in terminal racemes, or solitary and axillary; corolla personate; tube ample, saccate at the base; lobes of the upper lip erect; lower lip spreading, having the middle lobes smaller than the lateral ones, with an ample bearded palate, which closes the throat. Seed pod or capsule two-celled, upper cell bursting by one pore, lower by two many-toothed pores. See Fig. 113. Leaves entire, rarely lobed. The genus contains several very handsome species, suitable for borders and the rockery, while innumerable varieties have originated from A. majus, which are very popular, and extremely useful for bedding purposes; these may be increased by cuttings or seeds; if it is desired to increase certain colours or varieties, the former is the only sure method to adopt. They should be taken in September, when they will readily root in a cold frame, or under a hand glass, or they may be rapidly propagated in gentle heat in spring. Seeds should be sown in July or August, when they will produce good plants by the following season; or if sown in March in warmth, the plants will bloom late in the same year. The "Tom Thumb" strain is especially desirable for bedding, being very dwarf and free. All the other species may be increased by cuttings and seeds treated in the same way. Light soil, well enriched with manure, is most suitable for all of them, especially for the varieties of A. majus.

=A. angustifolium= (narrow-leaved). Synonymous with A. siculum.

=A. Asarina= (Asarina).* fl. axillary, solitary; corolla 1-1/2in. long, white, sometimes tinged with red; palate yellow; tube glabrous, compressed on the back, marked by purple spots, and bearded by yellow hairs inside. June. l. opposite, on long petioles, five-nerved, five-lobed, cordate, and crenated. South France, &c., 1699. A greyish clammy procumbent plant, requiring a warm position on the rockery. See Fig. 114.

=A. hispanicum= (Spanish). fl. in loose spikes; corolla hardly an inch long, purple, with a golden yellow palate; tube villous. Summer. l. oblong-lanceolate, contracted at the base, bluntish; lower ones opposite; superior ones alternate, narrower. h. 1ft. Spain, 1878. SYN. A. latifolium.

=A. latifolium= (broad-leaved). Synonymous with A. hispanicum.

=A. majus= (large).* Greater, or Common Snapdragon. fl. racemose, approximate; corolla 1in. to 2in. long, shades infinite; palate yellow at top, very prominent; tube downy outside. Spring, summer, and autumn. l. oblong-lanceolate, 1in. to 3in. long; upper ones narrower, attenuated at both ends, glabrous. Branches erect, usually branched again. h. 2ft. Europe (naturalised in Britain). The named varieties are numerous, but it is unnecessary to enumerate any, as an equal amount of variation can be obtained from seed. See Fig. 115.

=A. molle= (soft).* fl. few, at the tops of the branchlets; corolla 1in. long, whitish, with a yellow palate; upper lip striped with purple. July. l. opposite, petiolate, clothed with glandular and clammy hairs, about 1/2in. long, and little more than 1/4in. broad; branches procumbent, slender, clothed with woolly hairs. Pyrenees, 1752. A very pretty plant, which should have a warm position on the rockery. A. sempervirens comes close to this species.

=A. Orontium= (Orontium). fl. axillary, distant; corolla rose-coloured or white, striped with purple; tube furnished with a few glandular hairs; palate veined with purple; sepals linear-lanceolate, large. June. l. oblong-lanceolate, acutish, attenuated at both ends, glabrous, 2in. long. h. 6in. to 12in. Europe (British cornfields). Annual. See Fig. 116.

=A. O. grandiflorum= (large-flowered). A variety with larger, paler, and more approximate flowers, and with broader leaves, than the type. Europe (British cornfields).

=A. siculum= (Sicilian). fl. in loose racemes; corolla hardly 1in. long, white or yellowish, rarely purple; tube rather hairy; lobes of the upper lip and the middle lobe of the lower lip emarginate. July. l. 1in. to 1-1/2in. long, linear-lanceolate, opposite, alternate or three in a whorl, narrowed into petioles at the base. Branches erect. h. 1ft. to 2ft. Sicily, 1804. SYN. A. angustifolium.

=A. tortuosum= (twisted).* fl. disposed in spiked racemes, approximating by threes and fours; corolla (the largest of the genus) purple; tube short; upper lip large. June. l. linear, acute, opposite or three in a whorl, 2in. long, attenuated at both ends; upper ones very narrow. Branches erect. h. 1ft. to 1-1/2ft. Italy.

=ANTONIA.= A synonym of =Rhynchoglossum= (which see).

=ANTROPHYUM= (from antron, a cavern, and phuo, to grow; referring to its place of growth). Including Polytænium. ORD. Filices. A small genus of stove ferns, very rarely seen in cultivation, all with simple fronds, of firm but fleshy texture, and copious, uniform, hexagonal areolæ. Sori carried along the veins, imperfectly reticulated. For culture, &c., see =Ferns=.

=A. cayennense= (Cayenne). sti. 1in. to 4in. long. fronds 6in. to 9in. long, 1in. to 1-1/2in. broad, lanceolate-oblong, narrowed at both ends; edge thickened, entire; areolæ half as broad as long. sori sub-superficial, often forked. Guiana, &c.

=A. coriaceum= (leathery). fronds 6in. to 8in. long, about 1/2in. broad, narrowed very gradually from the centre to the base, very acute at the apex, very thick; areolæ very long and narrow, distinctly raised on the upper surface. sori quite immersed, sometimes confluent. Himalayas, &c.

=A. lanceolatum= (lance-leaved).* fronds 1ft. or more long, 1/4in. to 1/2in. broad, point acute, edge entire, the lower half narrowed very gradually to the base; areolæ two or three times as long as broad, about three rows between the midrib and the edge. sori slender, superficial, often joining. West Indies, southwards to New Grenada, 1793.

=ANTS= (Formicidæ). Well-known pests, easily distinguished from all other insects. There are a great number of species, differing more or less in habits; but, as a rule, they dwell underground in communities, and construct extensive ant-cities, which are occupied by three classes--the neuters or workers (by far the most numerous), the males, and the females. There are often, in addition to these, larger and stronger neuters, known as the "soldiers," or defenders of the community. Ants have a long, slender body, supported on long and slender legs. The head bears a pair of elbowed horns or antennæ, constantly waving about and touching everything the insect comes across. They have powerful mandibles for cutting, sawing, and biting, and it is with these instruments that Ants do mischief in gardens. The winged males and females become mature in summer, and on a warm day they ascend in a body into the air; after a short time, they fall to the ground, the females at once free themselves from the henceforth useless wings, and begin to form new colonies. Vast numbers of eggs are laid, from which issue larvæ, and these soon become pupæ, and then perfect Ants. Some kinds are injurious from their habit (in some species) of collecting aphides together, and farming them for the sake of the honey secreted by the aphides, and that passes out from their honey-tubes (thus helping to perpetuate the stock of these most injurious insects); and also from the mechanical damage they do in pots, and other receptacles for plants. They likewise cause unsightly hills on lawns and paths, and the large black species that live in decayed wood often injure the framing of greenhouses, &c., when the woodwork has become somewhat decayed. Where fruit, such as peaches or wall pears, are grown, Ants will at times inflict damage, and, therefore, they should be kept away; but this is a comparatively easy matter, as the placing of an obnoxious substance along the base of the walls and around the stems of the trees will deter them. For the extirpation of Ants from indoors, the Arsenical solution described below is most efficacious, but it is extremely dangerous.

* * * * *

Lime. Air-slaked lime plentifully dusted, in warm, dry, weather, over and around the hills and other places infested, will cause the Ants to vacate them in a short time. A thick chalk line drawn round a smooth tree, or across an upright board or post, will render it impassable.

Arsenic. This must be used with the utmost caution, as it is a poison most fatal to animal life. Recipe: 1oz. of ordinary arsenic is placed in an old iron pot with a quart of water, and then boiled until reduced to a pint or a little more of liquid, to which is added 1/2lb. of coarse sugar. This mixture can either be dropped about the runs and around the nests, or placed in saucers in the Ants' haunts.

Ferrocyanide of Potassium. This is also very dangerous: Ferrocyanide of potassium, 1dr.; raspings of quassia, 1dr.; and enough sugar to form a syrup. Use in the same way as the preceding.

Calomel and Sugar. Mix together one part of calomel and ten parts of finely-powdered loaf sugar, and lay it in little heaps about their nests and runs; the Ants will eat it and die. Spring is the best season for this method.

Guano, when fresh, if sprinkled on and around their quarters, is said to be efficacious in driving them away.

Camphor. If a piece of camphor, about the size of a filbert, be placed in two quarts of hot water, and this, when cool enough, applied to pot or other plants infested with Ants, the insects will be driven off without injury to the plants.

Bones. Lay a quantity of partially-picked boiled bones in the haunts, and they will be quickly covered with insects. As soon as this occurs, throw the bones into hot water. Before laying them down again, let all superfluous moisture drain off. This is a cheap remedy, and, if persisted in, is very effectual.

Carbolic Acid. This, if of good strength, diluted with about ten or twelve times its bulk of water, and well sprinkled over paths or other places where there is no vegetation, will keep the Ants away. It has, however, an objectionable smell.

Paraffin Oil. Paraffin, mixed with six times its bulk of water, and sprinkled over the nests every few days, will kill and drive away Ants; but the smell is disagreeable.

Quassia. 4oz. of quassia chips, boiled in a gallon of water for about ten minutes, and 4oz. of soap added to the liquor as it cools, if used like the preceding, is fairly effectual; but this, like the other remedies, must be persisted in for some time.

Fly pans or saucers, nearly filled with thin honey or sweet oil, attract Ants, and they are drowned in them. Ants are very hard to clear effectually out of a place, and therefore it is very desirable, in all attempts to be rid of them, to persist in the above remedies. When not living close to the roots or stems of plants, the best and surest remedy of all is to flood them out or scald them in with boiling water. The specifics are endless, but the best are mentioned above.

=ANTWERP HOLLYHOCK.= See =Althæa ficifolia=.

=AOTUS= (from a, without, and ous, an ear; in allusion to the absence of appendages in the calyx, which distinguishes it from its allied genus, Pultenæa). ORD. Leguminosæ. Elegant little greenhouse evergreen shrubs, with yellow flowers, and simple, linear-subulate leaves, revolute at the margins, alternate or nearly opposite, or three in a whorl. They should be grown in a compost of equal parts loam, sand, and peat, with a little charcoal, and the pots should be well drained. Cuttings of half-ripened wood, made in April, root freely in sand, under a bell glass.

=A. gracillima= (most slender).* fl. yellow and crimson, small, on long, dense, graceful spikes, which are often over a foot long; pedicels short. May. h. 3ft. New Holland, 1844. A very pretty slender growing shrub.

=A. villosa= (soft-haired). fl. axillary, disposed in racemose spikes along the branches; calyx silky. April. l. smoothish on the upper surface. h. 1ft. to 2ft. New Holland, 1790.

=APEIBA= (the native name in Guiana.) ORD. Tiliaceæ. Very handsome stove evergreen trees or shrubs, clothed with starry down. Flowers large, golden yellow, pedunculate, bracteate. Capsule spherical, depressed, rough from rigid bristles. Leaves broad, alternate, entire or serrate. They thrive in a mixture of loam and peat. The best way to induce them to flower in this country is by cutting a ring round the bark of a large branch; by this means the growth is stopped. Well ripened cuttings should be planted in sand in heat, under a bell glass, which should be tilted occasionally, so as to give a little air to the cuttings, otherwise they are apt to damp off.

=A. aspera= (rough).* fl. golden yellow; peduncles opposite the leaves, branched, many flowered. May. l. ovate-oblong, somewhat cordate, quite entire, smooth. h. 30ft. to 40ft. Guiana, 1792.

=A. Petoumo= (Petoumo). fl. yellow, similarly disposed to A. aspera. August. fr. densely clothed with bristles. l. ovate-oblong, somewhat cordate at the base, entire, hoary beneath. h. 40ft. Guiana, 1817.

=A. Tibourbou= (Tibourbou).* fl. dark yellow. August. fr. densely clothed with bristles. l. cordate, ovate-oblong, serrated, hairy beneath. h. 10ft. Guiana, 1756.

=APETALOUS.= Without petals.

=APEX.= The summit or point of anything.

=APHELANDRA= (from apheles, simple, and aner, a male; the anthers being one-celled). ORD. Acanthaceæ. Very handsome stove evergreen shrubs, mostly of an erect habit of growth, and having handsome shining leaves, which in some instances are variegated. Flowers produced in terminal four-sided spikes-—the preponderating colours being brilliant shades of orange or scarlet—-conspicuously situated above the foliage; they are exceedingly attractive; corolla ringent, two-lipped, upper lip three-lobed; central lobe large. They bloom generally during the autumn months, and if the plants are removed to a warm dry atmosphere so soon as the flowers begin to open, they will continue much longer in perfection than if left in the moisture-laden atmosphere of the stove. From the time the flower spikes are at first seen till they bloom, the plants will derive much benefit from frequent applications of clear manure water. When the plants have finished flowering, they should be allowed to rest, by reducing the supply of water, but never allow them to shrivel. During this time they may be kept in a house or pit, where the atmosphere is rather dry, with a night temperature of 50deg. to 55deg. Here they may remain till March, when they should be pruned. This operation is commenced by thinning out the weakest shoots altogether, and cutting the others back to one or two of the strongest joints or buds above the old wood in order to keep the plants dwarf and bushy. When pruned, the plants should be placed in the stove, giving moderate supplies of water at the roots, and occasionally sprinkling the stems overhead till growth commences. When the young shoots have attained an inch or so in length, the plants should be turned out of the pots, removing the crocks and as much of the old soil as can be got away easily, at the same time shortening-in any of the straggling roots. They should then be placed into smaller-sized pots, keeping them rather close, and watering them carefully for a time till growth has commenced. When fairly started, they may be transferred into larger-sized pots, in which they are to flower. During the summer, these plants require a moist atmosphere, with a temperature of 65deg. by night, allowing it to rise 15deg. or 20deg. by day, and whilst active growth is taking place they should be frequently supplied with moisture at the roots, keeping them well exposed on all sides to the light. After growth has commenced, it is not advisable to stop the shoots, for the stouter and stronger they grow up the finer will be the flower spikes when they appear. The compost should consist of equal parts fibry loam, leaf soil, and peat, with a good proportion of sand added. In preparing it, it should be rather lumpy, and, before using, should be warmed to about the temperature of the house in which the plants are grown. Clean pots and perfect drainage are most essential. Cuttings are best prepared from half ripened wood, or taken off when young with a heel. The base of each cutting should invariably be cut clean across. These may be inserted an inch apart, in pots of sandy soil, and plunged in a brisk bottom heat. To obtain young shoots for cuttings, if the old plants break freely after pruning, and very large specimens are not required, when the shoots are 2in. long they should be thinned out, leaving the requisite number of the strongest to form the plant. If the surplus pieces are removed with a slight heel of the older wood, they make good cuttings, and should be treated the same as the others. These cuttings strike root quickest, and when rooted, if potted into 5in. or 6in. pots, and allowed to grow up without stopping or pinching out the tops, they will flower the first season. Although Aphelandras can be grown into large sized specimens, it will be found to be more generally satisfactory to have specimens of neat and moderate dimensions. The mealy bug and scale insects are very troublesome, and must be kept down, otherwise they will prove most prejudicial to the plants.

=A. acutifolia= (acute-leaved). fl. large, deep vermilion red; the upper lip of corolla concave, and projected forward, the lower one consists of three oblong-obtuse spreading lobes. October. l. broad, oblong-ovate, acuminate. Columbia, 1868.

=A. aurantiaca= (orange-coloured).* fl. deep orange scarlet; upper lip of corolla erect, bidentate, concave; lower one spreading horizontally, three lobed. December. l. broad, ovate, opposite, dark green, somewhat wavy at the edge. h. 3ft. Mexico, 1844.

=A. a. Roezlii= (Roezl's).* Differs chiefly from the type in the curiously twisted leaves, which are dark green, shaded with a silvery hue between the primary veins; in the brighter scarlet of the flowers; and a few other, but purely technical, points. It is one of the best. Mexico, 1867. SYN. A. Roezlii.

=A. cristata= (crested).* fl. brilliant orange scarlet, 2in. or 3in. long, in large terminal branching spikes. August to November. l. large, broadly ovate, and tapering to a point. h. 3ft. West Indies, 1733. A handsome and continuous bloomer. SYN. Justicia pulcherrima.

=A. fascinator= (fascinating).* fl. bright vermilion, in very large spikes. Autumn. l. ovate acuminate, olive green, beautifully banded with silvery white, whilst the under side is of a uniform purplish violet. h. 1-1/2ft. New Grenada, 1874.

=A. Leopoldi= (Leopold's).* fl. citron-yellow. l. opposite, ovate-oblong, acuminate; ground colour on the upper surface dark green, the midrib and primary veins pure white; under surface uniformly pale green. Brazil, 1854.

=A. medio-aurata= (golden-centred). fl. unknown. l. ovate-lanceolate, sinuate, bright green, with yellow central brand. Brazil, 1871. SYN. Graptophyllum medio-auratum.

=A. nitens= (shining).* fl. glowing vermilion-scarlet, very large, in erect, simple, terminal spikes, which, after the flowers have fallen, are clothed with the imbricating, lanceolate, appressed bracts. l. ovate, sub-acute, leathery, brilliant glossy on the upper surface, dark vinous purple underneath. h. 2ft. to 3ft. Columbia, 1867.

=A. Porteana= (Porte's).* fl. in fine terminal heads; corolla and bracts bright orange. l. rich green, with metallic silvery-white veins. h. 2ft. Brazil, 1854.

=A. pumila= (dwarfish).* fl. orange-coloured; upper lip erect, concave, entire; bracts large, purplish. l. large, cordate, ovate-oblong, acute. h. 8in. Brazil, 1878. Very distinct from all others.

=A. punctata= (dotted).* fl. bright yellow, in large and rather dense spikes; the spiny-edged long pointed bracts are also yellow, with the exception of the tip, which is green, and forms a pleasing contrast. November. l. opposite, elliptic, acuminate; the green midrib is conspicuous in the middle of a white central band, which also extends beside the green veins, this silvery band breaking up on its margin into numerous small white dots, producing a pretty and distinct form of variegation. South America, 1881.

=A. Roezlii.= A synonym of A. aurantiaca Roezlii.

=A. variegata= (variegated). fl. yellow; spike, 6in. long, with bright orange-red bracts. l. ovate-lanceolate, acuminate, dark green with white veins. h. 1-1/2ft. Brazil.

=APHELEXIS= (from apheles, simple, and exis, habit). ORD. Compositæ. A genus of elegant dwarf evergreen greenhouse shrubs. Flower-heads large, solitary, or small and two or more together. Leaves small. These plants are valuable for exhibition purposes, on account of their bright colours, and the length of time they last in perfection; they are included among what are familiarly known as "everlastings." The most suitable soil is a compost of two parts of good fibrous peat and one of leaf mould, with a liberal supply of silver sand, and a few pieces of charcoal added to it. Repot the plants firmly in February, and allow thorough drainage. Cuttings can be made in spring or summer; small half-ripened side shoots are best; and these will root in sandy soil, under a bell glass, in a cool greenhouse.

=A. ericoides= (heath-like).* fl.-heads white. April. l. very small, three-cornered, imbricated, appressed; branches numerous, very fine, filiform. h. 1ft. Cape of Good Hope, 1796.

=A. fasciculata= (fascicled). fl.-heads purplish, solitary, terminal; peduncles scaly. March. l. acerose linear, roundish, downy above; lower spreading; upper appressed. h. 2ft. Cape of Good Hope, 1779. There are two or three forms of this species, varying in the colour of the flowers.

=A. humilis= (humble, or dwarf).* fl.-heads pink, solitary, terminal, opening only in sunshine; peduncles scaly. April. l. subulate, erect, imbricate. Branches numerous, slender, covered with white tomentum. h. 2ft. Cape of Good Hope, 1810. A handsome greenhouse plant, with much-branched stems, terminated by the flower-head. SYNS. A. macrantha and Helipterum humile.

=A. h. grandiflora= (large-flowered).* fl.-heads rosy-purple, produced in great abundance. Habit rather dwarf, and free branching. Very highly esteemed.

=A. h. purpurea= (purple).* fl. dark purple, very abundant. l. silvery white and shining. A vigorous grower, and perhaps the best for exhibition purposes. It is known in gardens as A. macrantha purpurea; also under the name of A. spectabilis.

=A. h. rosea= (rose-coloured).* fl.-heads delicate rose, very profuse. Habit very compact and free-branching. A very showy and desirable variety, known in gardens as A. macrantha rosea.

=A. macrantha= (large-flowered). Synonymous with A. humilis.

=A. sesamoides= (Sesamum-like). fl.-heads purple and white, sessile, solitary, terminal. April. l. acerose linear, keeled, smooth, appressed. h. 2ft. Cape of Good Hope, 1739.

=APHIDES=, or =PLANT LICE=. These belong to the order Homoptera, meaning "same winged," and the name has reference to the fact that the fore wings are uniform in their structure from base to apex, not divided into a leathery base and a membranous tip. Aphides are all minute in size, soft bodied, and generally long legged; the mouth is furnished with a curiously-constructed beak, or rostrum, for sucking the juice of plants; the antennæ, or feelers, are long and slender; the legs have usually two joints in the tarsi, one of which is generally very ill-developed; and near the tip of the abdomen, on the back of a ring, in many kinds, stand two prominent tubes, called honey-tubes, from which a sweet secretion, much sought after by ants, is emitted. They are very destructive, and nearly every plant has its own peculiar Aphis; but among the worst are the cherry fly and bean fly. All these insects are very destructive to the young shoots and foliage of plants, on which they cluster in large numbers, sometimes completely hiding the stems, increasing with marvellous rapidity. They produce eggs in autumn, which lie dormant through the winter, and upon the approach of warm weather in spring, hatch and produce individuals which, during the summer, are viviparous, budding off young insects at a surprising rate, which quickly in turn become possessed of the same marvellous power; hence the enormous number which are produced in so surprisingly short a time. It has been computed that in a few weeks many millions of young might be produced directly or descended from a single female. See also =Black Fly= and =Bean Fly=.

The following remedies may be successfully employed:

Tobacco. This is applied, as a rule, in three forms, each of which is useful for particular purposes. Tobacco powder is useful as a dry application to plants where, from any cause, the other modes of employing it are not desirable. It causes no smell, and is useful in conservatories, &c., for that reason. The mode of applying it is to dredge or dust it over the foliage of the plants affected, and to syringe off in from three to thirty hours, according to the nature of the plants. Fumigation with tobacco, if done in a proper way, is very effective, but it leaves an unpleasant smell. The foliage of the plants should be quite dry, and a still day must be chosen for the work; the house should be filled with smoke, but no flame must arise in the burning. The plants should be well syringed the next morning, and full ventilation allowed; if the fumigation is repeated twice or thrice, it will prove very effectual. Tobacco water is made by soaking a pound of coarse shag in 6gals. of hot water, to which 1/2lb. of size or soft soap has been added. The plants should be dipped into or syringed with this mixture, and well syringed with clean tepid water about twelve hours after. It should not be employed for plants having woolly or hairy foliage. Tobacco paper and cloth are used for fumigating in the same manner as tobacco; but as they vary in strength, more care is necessary, as they sometimes cause the leaves to become spotted. Judiciously employed, they are cheaper than Tobacco.

Quassia. Boil 1lb. quassia chips in 4gals. of soft water, for about ten minutes, and after straining off the chips, add 1lb. of soft soap. Apply in the same way as Tobacco water, and syringe the plants with clean water after ten minutes or a quarter of an hour.

Soft Soap. This, in proportion of 8lb. to 12gals. of rain water, and 1gal. of tobacco water added after it is cold, is a cheap and good remedy out of doors, and requires the same mode of application as tobacco water.

Soap Suds. Where bleaching powder, or much soda, is not mixed with these, they make a good insect killer for hard-foliaged plants, but should be washed off with clean water in twelve hours. No mixture containing chloride of lime should be used.

Various. Fir-tree Oil, Gishurst's Compound, and Fowler's Insecticide, are all serviceable, if used as directed on the labels. Hardeman's Beetle Powder, applied with the little French powder-bellows which is sold with it, is very efficacious. For outdoor work, nothing surpasses clean cold water, applied often and forcibly with a syringe.

The best mode of clearing Aphis off Beaus, Currants, &c., is to remove the tops of the infested shoots, and to wash the plants with soapy water, or a solution of Gishurst's Compound. In some cases, a good dusting with soot and wood ashes, while the plants are wet, will keep them in check. The "Golden Eyes" or "Lacewing" fly, and also ladybirds, are to be encouraged, as the larvæ of each of these wage incessant war against Aphides, especially the green varieties, and thin them out considerably.

=APHROPHORA.= See =Frog Hopper=.

=APHYLLANTHES= (from aphyllos, leafless, and anthos, a flower; the flowers are on rush-like branches). ORD. Liliaceæ. A very pretty rush-like hardy perennial, forming dense, erect tufts. It thrives best in sandy peat, requires a warm sunny situation, and slight protection in winter. Increased by division of the roots, and seeds; the latter should be sown in pots in a cool greenhouse as soon as ripe.

=A. monspeliensis= (Montpelier).* fl., perianth six-cleft, spreading at the apex, deep blue, nearly an inch across, disposed in a small head, on slender scapes. June. l. absent; the very slender scapes are leaflike, with membranous sheaths at the base. South of France, 1791.

=APHYLLOUS.= Without leaves.

=APICRA= (from apicros, not bitter). ORD. Liliaceæ. A group of succulents allied to Aloe, and having the following among other characters:--Flowers small, loosely sub-spicate; perianth regular, cylindrical, with short spreading segments; peduncles simple or forked. Plants small; rosette leaves always elongated. Leaves thick, diffuse, never spinosely dentated. They require treatment similar to Aloes, under which genus they are included by some authors.

=A. aspera= (rough).* fl., perianth 1/2in. long; raceme loose, 3in. to 4in.; pedicels three to four lines long; peduncle slender, simple, nearly 1ft. l. dense, in many rows, spreading, rounded, deltoid, six to seven lines long and broad; face rather flat; middle three to four lines thick; back convex hemispherical, wrinkled. Cape of Good Hope, 1795.

=A. bicarinata= (double-keeled).* fl. unknown. l. dense, in many rows, ascending, deltoid-lanceolate, nine to twelve lines long, six lines broad, dirty green; face flat; middle two lines thick; margin scabrous; back copiously tubercled. Cape of Good Hope, 1824.

=A. congesta= (congested). fl., perianth six to seven lines, whitish; raceme loose, sub-spicate, about 1ft.; pedicels short; peduncles 6in. long, simple. l. dense, spreading, in many rows, deltoid-lanceolate, eighteen to twenty-one lines long, three to four lines thick; back convex; top unevenly keeled towards the margins. 1843.

=A. deltoidea= (deltoid). fl., perianth greenish, five to six lines long; raceme about 1ft. long, sub-spicate; pedicels short; peduncles 6in., simple or branched. l. in five regular rows, spreading, nine to twelve lines long, deltoid, shining green; when mature, upper surface rather flat, apex pungent; middle two to three lines thick; back distinctly keeled upwards; margins and keels minutely serrated. South Africa, 1873.

=A. foliolosa= (small-leafy).* fl., perianth greenish, five to six lines long; raceme loose, sub-spicate, about 1ft.; pedicels two to three lines long; peduncle 6in., simple. l. dense, spreading, in many rows, rounded deltoid, cuspidate, six to eight lines long and broad, without spots or tubercles; face rather flat; middle one and a half to two lines thick; back obliquely keeled upwards towards the margins. Cape of Good Hope, 1795.

=A. imbricata= (imbricated). Synonymous with A. spiralis.

=A. pentagona= (five-angled).* fl., perianth whitish, 1/2in. long; raceme about 1ft., loose; lower pedicels two to three lines long; peduncles 1ft., often branched. l. dense, regular, lower ones spreading, upper ones ascending, lanceolate-deltoid, fifteen to eighteen lines long; bottom six to eight lines broad, shining green; face flat; middle three to four lines thick; apex pungent; margin scabrous; back irregularly one to two keeled at top. Cape of Good Hope, 1731.

=A. p. bullulata= (little-blistered). l. irregularly spiral, five rowed; back with spreading close wrinkled tubercles.

=A. p. spirella= (small spiral). l. smaller and more deltoid, 1in. long, six to eight lines broad at the bottom, irregularly five rowed, or as if in many rows.

=A. spiralis= (spiral).* fl., perianth reddish-white, 1/2in. long; raceme loose, nearly 1ft.; pedicels ascending, two to three lines long; peduncles 6in., simple or branched. l. dense, in many rows, strong, ascending, lanceolate-deltoid, twelve to fifteen lines long, six to eight lines broad; face almost flat, without tubercles; apex pungent; back swollen, scarcely keeled; margins obscurely crenulated. Cape of Good Hope, 1790. SYN. A. imbricata.

=APICULATE=, =APICULATED=. Terminated in a little point.

=APIOS= (from apion, a pear; in reference to the form of the tubers of the root). ORD. Leguminosæ. An elegant little hardy twining perennial, easily trained into almost any shape. It must have a well-exposed, sunny position, and the soil should be of a warm or light sandy nature. Propagated by division of the tubers.

=A. tuberosa= (tuberous).* Ground Nut. fl. brownish-purple, sweet-scented, in axillary racemes. Summer and early autumn. l. pinnate. Tubers edible, farinaceous. Habit very light and graceful. Pennsylvania, 1640. SYN. Glycine Apios. See Fig. 117.

=APIOSPERMUM.= A synonym of =Pistia= (which see).

=APIUM= (from apon, Celtic for water; in reference to the habitat). ORD. Umbelliferæ. This genus contains no species worth growing for ornament, and nearly all are more or less acrid and poisonous. A. graveolens is the Celery of gardens, for culture of which, see =Celery=.

=APLECTRUM= (from a, without, and plectron, a spur; flower spurless). ORD. Orchideæ. A monotypic genus from North America. A curious, hardy, terrestrial orchid, requiring a shady spot in light loam and leaf mould, moderately damp. Very difficult to cultivate.

=A. hyemale= (wintry).* fl. greenish-brown, large, racemose, borne on a naked scape after the leaves have died down; labellum as long as the sepals; column sessile, rather long, wingless. April. Stem pseudo-bulbous, with one large, broad, ribbed leaf. h. 1ft. 1827.

=APLOTAXIS.= Included under =Saussurea= (which see).

=APOCARPOUS.= Having the carpels or fruit separate, or disunited.

=APOCYNACEÆ.= A large order of trees, shrubs, or rarely herbs, usually with a poisonous, milky sap. Flowers regular, solitary or corymbose; corolla salver-shaped or campanulate. Leaves simple, opposite, sometimes alternate or whorled. Well known genera belonging to this order are: Allamanda, Nerium, Tabernæmontana and Vinca.

=APOCYNUM= (from apo, away, and kyon, a dog; adopted by Dioscorides, because the plant was supposed to be poisonous to dogs). ORD. Apocynaceæ. Dog's Bane. Perennial erect herbs, with cymose flowers and membranous, opposite leaves. There are several species belonging to this genus, but only the one described below is worthy of being cultivated. They are of extremely easy culture, thriving in any ordinary soil; and may be propagated by suckers, divisions, or seeds. The best time to divide is just as they are starting into fresh growth in spring.

=A. androsæmifolium= (Tutsan-leaved).* fl. pale red, with darker stripes; corolla campanulate; cymes terminal and lateral. July. l. ovate, glabrous, petiolate, pale beneath. h. 1ft. to 2ft. Virginia, and Canada, 1683. A very old garden favourite, thriving best in peaty soil, with Azaleas, &c. See Fig. 118.

=APONOGETON= (from apon, Celtic for water, and geiton, neighbour; alluding to the habitat of these plants). ORD. Naiadaceæ. Very ornamental aquatic perennials. There are several species, but A. distachyon is superior to the others. This species may be cultivated in small tanks or aquaria; it delights in an abundance of light and air, and is perfectly hardy, having become naturalised in many parts of the country. Pot the plants in rich sandy loam and rotten cow manure, using, of course, small pots, if the vessel in which it is to be grown is restricted. When introducing it to large tanks or lakes, commence with strong, previously well-established plants, in large pots, breaking the latter when the plants are immersed. Place them in positions where the water is about 1ft. 6in. to 2ft. deep; they will then rapidly increase by offsets and seeds, and, when established, will flower nearly all the year round. The other kinds will thrive with the same treatment; but they are neither so hardy nor so vigorous, and should only be grown in small tanks or aquaria.

=A. angustifolium= (narrow-leaved). fl. white. July. Cape of Good Hope, 1788. Half hardy.

=A. distachyon= (two-spiked).* Cape Pond Weed; Winter Hawthorn. fl. with a delicious Hawthorn-like perfume; petals none; bracts, or showy portion oval, entire, white; anthers purple-brown; scape two-spiked, each spike being from 2in. to 4in. long. l. oblong-lanceolate, entire, bright green, on long stalks, floating. Cape of Good Hope, 1788. See Figs. 119 and 120.

=A. monostachyon= (simple-spiked). fl. pink. September. h. 1ft. East Indies, 1803. Stove species. Rare.

=A. spathaceum junceum= (rush-like).* A very pretty, but rare, half-hardy aquatic plant, with the forked inflorescence having both bracts and flowers suffused with a delicate blush colour. l. rush-like, standing clear up out of the water. South Africa, 1879.

=APORETICA.= A synonym of =Schmidelia= (which see).

=APPENDICULATE, APPENDICULATED.= Having appendages.

=APPLANATE.= Flattened out.

=APPLE= (Pyrus Malus). The Apple is one of the most useful, and probably most largely cultivated, of our hardy fruits. It is known as the Crab in its wild state, and is indigenous to Britain and to all the temperate and warmer parts of Europe. It is supposed that the progenitors of the varieties now grown were introduced to this country at various times from the Continent, and not obtained here as direct improvements on the native Crab. Those now cultivated are extremely numerous, and include good varieties that can be made to prolong the season all the year round. Apart from its great value as a fruit, the apple is a strikingly handsome tree when in flower (see Fig. 121). A fruiting branch is shown at Fig. 122.

Propagation. Seeds are sown extensively, chiefly for raising stocks to graft approved sorts on; also with a view to raising new varieties. The seeds do not retain their germinative properties very long, consequently they must be sown soon after being taken from the fruit. As grown in this country, they are generally sown in the autumn, transplanted the following year, and so on until they are of sufficient size for Grafting purposes. The standard of excellence being at present so high, improved forms raised from seed are comparatively scarce.

Grafting. This method of propagation is the one generally adopted for most purposes, the stocks being previously prepared for size or height of tree required. Cordon and other dwarf-trained trees should be worked near but not below the ground, while standards are best worked on stocks of the desired height. The practice of working standard trees low, and growing the scion to form the stem of the future tree, is not recommended, as many of the tenderer sorts will not grow straight or strong enough for the purpose. Whip-grafting is the most preferable mode adopted. The scions should be selected from healthy trees not later than January, and laid in singly in the ground until the stocks have slightly advanced in growth, which is generally about the middle of April. Several other methods of Grafting may be adopted with success, but the one above recommended is considered the best.

Budding. Apples may be successfully propagated by Budding, and this method is practised much more now than formerly. It has many advantages, as it requires to be performed at a season when there is not so much work in hand. It should be done in damp, dull weather, if possible, as the weather if dry soon destroys the buds. July and August is the proper time for the purpose. The stocks and woods from which the buds are taken should be as much as possible in the same condition.

Propagation by Cuttings, Layers, &c. This system may be made use of in the case of new varieties or where it is desired to increase any one variety with a limited number of scions, but the results are uncertain--at least in the case of cuttings; consequently, it is much better to resort to the safer method of Grafting.

Pruning. See =Pruning=.

Training. See =Training=.

Planting. The best time to plant is as soon as most of the leaves have fallen, which is generally about the end of October. The roots being then in an active state, and the ground still retaining a certain amount of heat, they will form new roots before winter, which is a material advantage. Where it is impossible to plant at this time, it may be done in suitable weather any time during the winter, but it is best not deferred till spring. It is important in planting that the soil should be moderately dry and free from frost; this condition cannot always be obtained during winter. The effects of soil and situation have a very important bearing on the Apple, specimens of the same sort from different places being often hardly recognisable. Although not over fastidious in the matter of soil as far as growing is concerned, the best results are obtained where it is of a rich loamy character and well drained. Dry, sandy soils invariably produce canker, while the trees are often overgrown with lichens in undrained land. The addition of heavier loam, or sometimes trenching and mixing the sub-soil with that at the top, will convert light soils into those suitable for Apple culture; while, on the other hand, heavy soils may be improved by drainage, the addition of lime, vegetable refuse, burnt earth, and other matters. Rank manure should on no account be used anywhere near the roots, but a little well-decayed manure, mixed with the soil or used as a mulching, is beneficial. The site best suited is an open, though not exposed one, with a south, south-east, or south-west aspect. Shelter from north-east winds in spring, which destroys the bloom, and from west and south-west winds in autumn, which blow down the fruit, should be the aim of cultivators. Planting in a valley should be avoided on account of spring frosts. In Planting, care must be taken to make the bottom of the hole tolerably firm, and slightly raised under the base or bole of the tree. The roots should then be carefully spread out all round, and if any have been ruptured in transplanting, cut them clean off on the upper side, thus inducing new roots to be formed near the surface. The soil should be trodden firmly after a quantity has been filled in, if it is in a dry, suitable condition, as previously recommended. Secure with stakes in proportion to the size of tree, or injury will be caused by the wind. The distance at which Apple trees are planted varies considerably. Standards in orchards may be planted in good soil, from 20ft. to 40ft. apart, especially if they are strong-growing culinary sorts. Pyramids may be planted from 5ft. to 15ft., according to size; and similar distances will suit Bush trees. The oblique Cordon system of training admits of a large number of varieties being cultivated in a small space, as they may be planted as close as 18in. or 2ft. apart. Horizontal Cordons should be planted about 5ft. asunder, and one branch trained each way. Watering will be necessary after planting in most cases, especially should the winter and following season be at all dry. Thinning the fruit is sometimes advisable for obtaining good specimens, but it is not generally necessary, at least with many of the shy-setting sorts. If, however, the crop should be exceptionally heavy, it is best to thin the fruit, or the tree may be unable to make and ripen its wood for the crop of the succeeding year.

Gathering. The three following tests are sure indications of the gathering period: (1) The apples will begin to fall of their own accord; (2) their seeds will be plump and brown in colour; and (3) the fruit will separate with a mere touch from the trees; the second test may be said to be infallible. All Apples should be gathered before the end of October, for none will bear frost with impunity. They must be gathered in dry weather, and handled with the greatest care, laid gently in baskets and trays, in single file only, and conveyed to the store room.

Storing. The simplest and best method is in choosing or forming some room or place free from extremes of heat and cold, dryness or damp, where a temperature of about 45deg. is maintained. A current of air is not necessary. The shelves should be made of poplar, sycamore, lime, or other white wood. Deal, oak, ash, elm, and almost all other woods, give a bad taste to the fruit. One sheet of paper--and paper only--should be placed under the fruit. They ripen best, and are of the highest flavour when left fully exposed to the free atmosphere of the fruit room, and in order to preserve a more even temperature the light should be shut out. Early and late ripening varieties must be stored in separate places, as well as all inferior or injured fruit. The plan of isolating each fruit by packing in tissue paper, sand, burnt earth, or other substances, often destroys the flavour of the fruit, and possesses no material benefit otherwise.

Diseases. Apple Mussel Scale, Apple or Codlin Grub, Canker, Mildew, American Blight, Scale, and Insect Pests, such as Caterpillars, Maggots, and Weevils, see under their separate headings.

The following are some of the best varieties in cultivation:--

=Adams' Pearmain.= Dessert. Fruit medium, very handsome; flavour juicy and sugary. December to March.

=Alexander.= Kitchen. Very large, showy, and good. September to December.

=Alfriston.= Kitchen. Very fine, large, white flesh. November to April.

=Ashmead's Kernel=, or =Cockle Pippin=. Dessert. Fruit below medium; flavour very rich and sugary. This variety is, according to Mr. Rivers, much esteemed in Gloucestershire. November to January.

=Bedfordshire Foundling.= Kitchen. Fruit large. One of the finest and most useful sorts, a great bearer. February to May.

=Bess Pool.= Kitchen. Fruit large. Good late cooking apple. December to May.

=Betty Geeson.= Kitchen. Fruit large, produced in great abundance. February to May. A valuable sort.

=Blenheim Pippin.= One of the best kitchen sorts. November to February.

=Boston Russet.= Dessert. Fruit medium; flavour very sugary and rich, similar to the Ribston Pippin. An excellent American variety. January to May.

=Brabant Bellefleur.= Kitchen. Fruit large, round, pale yellow, red-streaked. A most useful cooking variety, also useful for dessert. November to April.

=Calville Blanche.= Dessert. Fruit large; flavour first-class. October to December. See Fig. 123.

=Cellini.= Kitchen. Fruit perfect in form, size, colour, and quality. October to January.

=Claygate Pearmain.= Dessert. Fruit medium; flavour rich, aromatic, excellent, same as Ribston Pippin. January to May.

=Coe's Golden Drop.= Dessert. Fruit small, with a crisp and juicy flavour. November to January. A delicious variety.

=Cornish Aromatic.= Dessert. Fruit medium; flavour rich, juicy, and aromatic. October to December.

=Cornish Gillyflower.= Dessert. Fruit medium; flavour very rich, quite aromatic. October, November to January. An excellent variety, thriving best in a warm situation.

=Court of Wick.= Dessert. Fruit medium, very handsome; flavour somewhat similar to Golden Pippin. December to March.

=Court Pendu Plat.= Dessert or kitchen. Fruit medium, rich russet brown, of first-rate quality, and the tree is a good cropper. November to April. See Fig. 124.

=Cox's Orange Pippin.= Dessert. Fruit medium, very handsome; flavour rich aromatic. October to December. One of the best apples grown.

=Cox's Pomona.= Kitchen. Fruit very large, of superior quality. October.

=Devonshire Quarrenden.= Dessert. Fruit medium, excellent quality, and handsome. July to September. A very prolific sort.

=D. T. Fish.= Kitchen. Fruit large, roundish, of a clear straw-colour, with small specks of russet, slightly flushed with crimson on the side where the sun strikes it; flavour sub-acid. November to January. A fine and handsome variety.

=Duchess of Oldenburgh.= Kitchen. Fruit large, red-striped. August to October. A very desirable and handsome Russian variety.

=Duke of Devonshire.= Dessert. Fruit medium; flavour crisp, juicy, rich and sugary. December to March.

=Dumelow's Seedling=, or =Wellington=, or =Normanton Wonder=. Kitchen. Fruit firm, large, and somewhat acid. November to March.

=Early Harvest.= Dessert. Fruit medium; flavour juicy, excellent, with a pleasant sharpness. July to September. According to Mr. Rivers this variety is equally good for cooking or dessert, and is a very fertile tree on the Paradise stock.

=French Crab.= Kitchen. Fruit large, pale green, firm, acid. An excellent sort, and the longest keeper.

=Golden Pippin.= Dessert. Fruit small, very excellent flavour. November to January. A well-known and highly-esteemed sort.

=Golden Reinette.= Dessert. Fruit rather small, yellowish red, streaked with red; flavour excellent, sweet and rich. One of the best and most useful of dessert apples. October to December.

=Gravenstein.= Kitchen. Fruit large, handsome, sweet and crisp. November to January. A very prolific sort.

=Greenup's Pippin.= Kitchen. Fruit very large. February to May. A vigorous grower and abundant bearer.

=Irish Peach.= Dessert. Fruit medium, yellowish-green, very early; flavour juicy, excellent. July and August. A very good variety, often known as Early Crofton.

=Jolly Beggar.= Kitchen. Fruit large, pale yellow, tender and juicy. November to January. A very desirable sort and an extraordinary cropper.

=Keddlestone Pippin.= Dessert. Fruit small, yellow or golden colour, specked with russet; flavour delicious, highly aromatic. December to March. An excellent variety.

=Kerry Pippin.= Dessert. Fruit medium, firm, yellow, and red; flavour sugary and rich. September to October.

=Keswick Codlin.= Kitchen. Fruit large and early. August to October. An admirable sort for market purposes.

=King of the Pippins.= Dessert. Fruit medium, yellow and red; flavour juicy and rich. October to January.

=Lady Henniker.= Kitchen. Fruit yellow, with crimson streaks near the sun, highly flavoured, and with a pleasant perfume. February to May. An excellent sort, suitable for dessert or kitchen.

=Lodgemore Nonpareil.= Dessert. Fruit small; flavour rich, sugary, and aromatic. January to May. An excellent sort.

=Lord Suffield.= Kitchen. Fruit very large, white, soft, excellent for sauce and tarts. August to September.

=Manx's Codlin.= Kitchen. Fruit large. September and October. One of the finest and most useful of kitchen sorts.

=Mère de Ménage.= Kitchen. Large and good. October to March.

=Mr. Gladstone.= Dessert. Fruit large and handsome, very early, scarlet cheek, striped and shaded; of excellent quality. July and August. New.

=New= or =Winter Hawthornden=. Kitchen. Fruit very large, excellent. November to January. An extraordinary bearer, one of the best for sauce and cooking.

=Nonsuch.= Kitchen. Fruit large, juicy. August to October. An admirable sort, unequalled for sauce and cooking.

=Norfolk Beefing.= Kitchen. Large and good flavour, excellent keeper, most useful for baking whole and preserving. November to July.

=Norfolk Greening.= Kitchen. Fruit medium; rather acid. Keeps till April or May.

=Northern Spy.= Dessert. Fruit large, tender; flavour highly aromatic. December to May.

=Old Nonpareil.= Dessert. Fruit medium, tender, and juicy. November to January. A prolific variety.

=Pitmaston Pineapple.= Dessert. Fruit small; flavour very rich. July to September. According to Mr. Rivers this variety is a very abundant bearer on the Paradise stock; it is not a vigorous grower.

=Red Astrachan.= Dessert. Fruit good size, bright; flavour delicate and rich. August to September.

=Red Ingestrie.= Dessert. Fruit very pretty bright red next the sun, on a yellow ground, flesh pale yellow; flavour brisk and sparkling, like the Golden Pippin in quality. August and September. An excellent sort.

=Red Juneating=, or =Margaret=. Dessert. Fruit medium, early, very good quality. July and August. A well-known sort, with numerous synonyms.

=Red Quarrenden.= Dessert. Fruit under medium, bright scarlet; flavour crisp and sweet. August. One of the best summer sorts.

=Reinette du Canada.= Dessert. Fruit greenish-yellow and brown, large; flavour juicy, brisk, sub-acid. November to May. See Fig 125.

=Reinette Grise.= Dessert. Flesh yellowish-white, sugary, pleasant; flavour sub-acid. November to April. It does best on the Paradise stock, and is an abundant cropper. See Fig. 126.

=Ribston Pippin.= Dessert. Fruit greenish-yellow and red, medium; flavour rich, aromatic, excellent. October to December.

=Sam Young.= Dessert. Fruit small, yellowish with russet spots; flavour delicious, tender, and juicy. October to December. An excellent Irish sort.

=Scarlet Crofton.= Dessert. Fruit medium, yellow and red; flavour crisp, juicy, and sweet. October to December.

=Scarlet Nonpareil.= Dessert. Fruit well coloured, large; flavour crisp and juicy. January to March.

=Small's Admirable.= Kitchen. Fruit large, green, crisp, sweet, and juicy. November to January. A prolific cropper.

=Stamford Pippin.= Dessert. Fruit large, with a brisk flavour and an agreeable aroma. November to January. A very desirable sort.

=Sturmer Pippin.= Dessert. Fruit medium; flavour brisk and rich. February to June.

=Syke House Russet.= Dessert. Fruit small; flavour very rich. January to May. An excellent sort.

=Tower of Glammis.= Kitchen. Fruit yellow, very large, square-shaped, crisp, and excellent. February to May. A very excellent sort.

=Van Mons Reinette.= Dessert. Fruit small, with a rich, aromatic, and excellent flavour. November to January.

=Waltham Abbey Seedling.= Kitchen. Fruit large. November and December. An admirable sort.

=Warner's King.= Kitchen. Fruit large, handsome, and good. November to March.

=Worcestershire Pearmain.= Kitchen. Fruit large, conical, of a very brilliant colour; flavour crisp and juicy. August to October. A splendid variety, said to be as prolific as Lord Suffield.

=White Juneating.= Dessert. Fruit small, very early, and good quality, but a bad keeper. July and August. A prolific sort.

=White Nonpareil.= Dessert. Fruit medium, very delicious. March to June. A very desirable sort.

=Winter Quoining=, or =Queening=. Dessert. Fruit very bright, almost red; flavour excellent. November to May. An excellent sort, useful for dessert or culinary purposes.

=Winter Strawberry.= Dessert. Fruit yellow, medium, striped with red; flavour brisk aromatic. November to March. A very useful sort.

=Wormsley Pippin.= Kitchen or dessert. Fruit of an excellent quality, large, pale green; excellent for kitchen or dessert. September to October.

=Yorkshire Greening.= Kitchen. Fruit large, juicy, tender. November to January.

=For Cordons= the following are the best:--BETTY GEESON, COE'S GOLDEN DROP, COX'S ORANGE PIPPIN, DUKE OF DEVONSHIRE, KING OF THE PIPPINS, LODGEMORE NONPAREIL, NORTHERN SPY, REINETTE DU CANADA, RIBSTON PIPPIN, SCARLET NONPAREIL.

=For Pyramidal, Bush, and Espalier Trees=, the best are:-—ADAMS' PEARMAIN, ASHMEAD'S KERNEL, BOSTON RUSSET, CLAYGATE PEARMAIN, CORNISH GILLYFLOWER, COURT OF WICK, COURT PENDU PLAT, COX'S ORANGE PIPPIN, EARLY HARVEST, GOLDEN PIPPIN, GOLDEN REINETTE, IRISH PEACH, KEDDLESTONE PIPPIN, KERRY PIPPIN, RED INGESTRIE, RED QUARRENDEN, REINETTE DU CANADA, RIBSTON PIPPIN, SAM YOUNG, SCARLET CROFTON, SCARLET NONPAREIL, STURMER PIPPIN, SYKE HOUSE RUSSET, WORMSLEY PIPPIN. The following Kitchen sorts are well adapted to this method:-—ALFRISTON, BED-FORDSHIRE FOUNDLING, BRABANT BELLEFLEUR, CALVILLE BLANCHE, CELLINI, COX'S POMONA, D. T. FISH, DUCHESS OF OLDENBURGH, DUMELOW'S SEEDLING, JOLLY BEGGAR, KESWICK CODLIN, LORD SUFFIELD, MANX'S CODLIN, NEW HAWTHORNDEN, NONSUCH, WALTHAM ABBEY SEEDLING, WARNER'S KING.

=For Cold and Exposed Situations=, the following are the best:--BESS POOL, CLAYGATE PEARMAIN, FRENCH CRAB, GREENUP'S PIPPIN, KESWICK CODLIN, NONSUCH, STURMER PIPPIN, TOWER OF GLAMMIS, WINTER STRAWBERRY, WORMSLEY PIPPIN.

=For Cottage Gardens=: ALEXANDER, BEDFORDSHIRE FOUNDLING, BLENHEIM PIPPIN, KING OF THE PIPPINS, MANX'S CODLIN, NEW HAWTHORNDEN, REINETTE DU CANADA, RIBSTON PIPPIN, STURMER PIPPIN, WALTHAM ABBEY SEEDLING, WARNER'S KING, WORMSLEY PIPPIN.

=APPLE BERRY.= See =Billardiera=.

=APPLE-BLOSSOM WEEVIL= (Anthonomus pomorum). This is a small beetle of a reddish-brown colour, with three inconspicuous stripes of a paler colour behind the head; the wing cases show a large pitchy-coloured blotch, with oblique striæ and yellowish spots thereon. The female busily engages herself in piercing the flower buds; while the male may be usually seen flying about the trees during the breeding season, which, of course, varies according to the earlier or later expansion of the buds. The female, by means of strong jaws at the end of the long proboscis, bores a hole in the bud, in which she lays a single egg, finally closing the opening, then passing on to other buds. The laying season lasts for two or three weeks, or, indeed, as long as the buds remain unexpanded; eggs are never laid in open blossoms. In warm weather, the eggs are hatched in six or seven days, usually about the end of April, into small, white, legless maggots, which feed upon the stamens and pistil; hence, although the petals are normally coloured, and expand, the flowers ultimately wither, and in some seasons very serious consequences have arisen from these injurious little pests. The maggot is fleshy, whitish, with a few hairs and a black, hard head; in a few days, it turns into a brown chrysalis or pupa, which, in turn, is changed into the Weevil, only about a month having elapsed from the deposition of the egg till the Weevil is developed. It feeds upon the foliage during summer, and hybernates in crannies of the bark, or under the soil at the base of the trees, during winter, waking up in the following spring to go through the same performances as its parents.

Remedies. Some of the methods advised for the extirpation of the American Blight will prove very useful for the destruction of this pest. Clear away all useless portions of the bark and rubbish round about the tree during the winter, and many will be destroyed. Place bandages of tarred cloth around the stem in spring; this will prevent the females crawling up, as they seldom fly. If a white cloth is placed beneath the tree affected when in bud, and the tree is severely shaken, a large number will be caught, as the Weevil falls to the ground when alarmed. Timely thinning of the trees, allowing the free admission of light and air, is also a very effectual preventive, as it has been proved that the greatest ravages are committed where neglect of this has been the rule; and that, on the other hand, in proportion to its being done, the pest has been lessened in numbers.

=APPLE MUSSEL SCALE= (Aspidiotus conchiformis). This insect attacks the bark of Apple and Pear-trees. It is in outward appearance like the half of a mussel shell. Under the scale is the insect. It is closely allied to the true scale insects, and has similar habits. The scales are about 1/8in. long, brown, and wider at one end than at the other. The female is like a fat, green, fleshy maggot, without jointed limbs. The eggs of this curious insect are not laid, but simply remain in the body of the mother until she dies, thus leaving a protecting shield or case from which the hatched larvæ emerge. To get rid of this insect, therefore, the females containing eggs should be destroyed. It differs from most other species in the absence of the long tail filaments. If numerous, this Scale causes the trees to become sickly and unfruitful. It is difficult to extirpate.

Soft-soap Lather. When the leaves fall, in autumn, the trees should be treated with a stiff sash-tool, and all the Scale rubbed off, keeping the brush just moist, and not rubbing the buds. Applied for two seasons, this should clear the trees. All loose bark should be removed.

Seal Oil is sometimes recommended as a good remedy: but oils are rather unsafe applications to the bark of trees, especially of the young branches.

=APPLE OR CODLIN GRUB= (Carpocapsa pomonana). During the month of May, the well-known Codlin Moth (see Fig. 127) lays its eggs in the calyces, usually one in each, of the young, quickly-growing apple. The moth itself is a small insect; the fore-wings are grey, prettily speckled with delicate, darker streaks, and with a curved golden mark on the hinder part, inclosing one of a reddish-brown colour. The hind wings are usually dark, as is also the body. The caterpillar, when hatched, is white, with black head and neck, and with four rows of black marks along the whole body. The colours soon, however, become less decided, taking an indistinct brownish or grey hue. After being hatched, the caterpillar gnaws its way down the fruit, keeping clear of the core, and gradually forces its gallery towards the rind of the fruit, which it finally pierces, the opening serving as the outlet for the dirt. When nearly full grown, it pierces the core and feeds upon the pips, which injury speedily causes the fruit to drop. The insect then emerges therefrom, and finds a suitable shelter in a cranny of the bark, where it spins a cocoon; and, according to British authorities, it remains in the larval state for some weeks, finally assuming the chrysalis form, and thus passing the winter; the moth emerges the following season. Shortly after development, the moths pair, the female depositing eggs in the fruit in June or July, according to the season.

Practically, there is no preventive; but the following hints will serve to greatly reduce the numbers. All apples that fall ere they are ripe should be picked up as promptly as possible, and be given to the pigs; or pigs should be turned into the orchard to clear off the fallen fruit. The following is the only serviceable remedy:

Hayband Trap. This is simply a loosely made hayband twisted around the stems of the trees, about 1ft. from the ground. The grubs, in searching for a suitable place in which to make a cocoon, will generally choose the bands. At the end of the season, all the haybands should be collected and burnt, and the stems of the trees from which they were removed should be cleared of any cocoons which may adhere to them. All loose bark and other rubbish should be removed from the tree trunks, and also from the ground below.

=APPLE OR CODLIN GRUB TRAP.= An exceedingly ingenious and effective method of alluring that obnoxious pest, the Apple Grub. The trap (Fig. 128) consists of two, three, or more thin pieces of board, 12in. to 20in. in length, and 2in. to 4in. wide, with a screw (a) through their centre. The screw must be long enough to be firmly driven into the trunk of the tree, so as to hold the boards in position. Small slips of wood (b) are inserted between the boards, to keep them sufficiently open to allow of the entry of the grubs, as shown at d. The boards are cut on each side of the screw, as at c, to facilitate their separation when fastened together by the silken threads of the grubs, and to better expose the latter when the trap is opened. This handy trap, which is of American origin, is very cheap. A great number of them may be collected with little trouble, submitted to a killing heat, and replaced again; and they can be used either on the ground or on the trees. As regards killing the grubs when caught, Mr Weir, the inventor, says: "The quickest and best way is to have a large tin pan, bent in on one side, so as to fit closely to the trunk of the tree. When you reach the tree, drop upon your knees, place the depression in the pan against the trunk of the tree, hold it there by pressing your body against it, and you have both hands free to open the trap. When opening it, many of the pupæ or chrysalids will fall into the pan. The trap must be turned clear around, as many will be found between it and the bark. A person will open and kill the worms in from four hundred to eight hundred traps in a day."

=APPOSITE.= Placed side by side.

=APPROXIMATE=, =APPROXIMATED=, =APPROXIMATING=. Near together.

=APRICOT= (Armeniaca vulgaris). The Apricot, or, as it was formerly written, "Abricock," is a much esteemed and luscious fruit. It is said to have been introduced into this country during the reign of Henry VIII. The Apricot is one of the earliest flowering of fruit-trees (see Fig. 129), and is generally in bloom during February. This fact is a great drawback, as it is a difficult matter to save the flowers from destruction by the spring winds and frosts. The fruit (see Fig. 130) contains less acid than most stone fruits, and in appearance it is perhaps the handsomest of all. Success with its culture in many gardens is by no means certain, but with careful preparation of borders and protection of the flowers in spring, satisfactory results are often obtained. Large quantities of fruit are annually imported to this country from France; but their quality and flavour cannot be compared with that of good home-grown produce.

Propagation is effected by seeds or budding. The stones, selected from the best varieties, may be sown as soon as the fruit is ripe, in August or September, in light rich soil, and covered with about 2in. of earth, over which a little litter should be spread during winter. After one season's growth, the plants should be lifted, and the tap roots slightly cut back if the trees are intended for walls. They should then be planted in nursery lines, allowing about a yard between the rows, and 2ft. from plant to plant.

Budding is the most general mode of propagating Apricots. They are frequently budded from the beginning to the middle of June on seedling, and also on plum stocks, of which latter the Mussell, Saint Julien, Brussels, and Black Damson are the best. For dwarf trees, the stock should be budded about 1ft. from the ground. There are many disadvantages in having a great length of stem. "Rider" trees require a stem from 3-1/2ft. to 6ft.; half-riders, 2-1/2ft. to 3ft. Grafting by the Whip method is sometimes employed, but, for many reasons, it is much inferior to Budding.

Planting, &c. South-west and western aspects suit the Apricot best, but the fruit has been ripened in warm localities on walls facing several points north. Large areas of garden wall (see Figs. 131 and 132), the walls of stables, barns, outbuildings, and two sides of at least hundreds of cottages, might thus be utilised for the cultivation of this tree. If well drained, almost any garden soil will bring these fruits to perfection; light, fibrous, rather sandy loam will, however, prove most satisfactory. There should be a considerable depth of soil; a yard is not too much, provided it be on a dry base, which is most important. Heavy soils may be improved for Apricot culture by the addition of an equal portion of light loam, mortar rubbish, or charred refuse. In furnishing walls, the distance apart may vary from 2ft. between Cordons, to 12ft., 15ft., or even 20ft. between Fan-shaped trees. The roots should be carefully arranged, interlayered at all points with fine soil, and the whole covered to a depth of 3in. or 4in. Not only should the roots have a good covering of suitable earth, but a secondary one of litter, or other light material, should be added, to render them frost proof in winter, and drought and heat proof in summer. Newly planted trees should, on no account, be allowed to get dry at the root. A thorough soaking of soft rain, or manure water, will often save a crop, and restore the trees, when all other surface remedies or appliances fail. Surface sprinklings overhead with the garden engine, in the afternoons of bright days, are beneficial, and help to keep the foliage clean and healthy. So soon as the trees are cleared of their fruit, attention should be directed to the maturation of the wood. All superfluous shoots should be removed, any excess of growth left on the shoots cut back, and every effort made to perfect the wood already made, rather than force the tree to make more. Unless the weather be very dry, water should not be applied after this stage.

Protection. It is almost hopeless to expect a crop unless the blossoms are protected, by mats or other means, from spring frosts. Temporary wooden copings, from 1ft. to 2ft. wide, laid on iron brackets, are indispensable for warding off storms, and keeping other coverings away from the flowers. These should not be put up till the trees are just bursting into bloom, and may safely be removed about the end of May. A few fish or other nets, spread over the trees, afford considerable resistance to the radiation of heat. This is assuredly one of the easiest, if not one of the most efficient, modes of protection. Frigi-domo and other thick shadings are sometimes used, but they require to be removed from the trees in the day time. The thinner nets mentioned are generally not in use for other purposes at this time of year, and may remain over the trees altogether. Glass copings are the best, but, being rather expensive, they cannot be used by the majority of cultivators. They have, however, been applied with good results to trees that had previously failed.

Cropping, &c. Thinning of the fruit needs early and careful attention. The average of 3in. apart may be chosen for a maximum yield. As the fruit approach maturity, overhanging leaves, or branches of young wood, must be removed, to admit sun and light to properly ripen and colour them. Apricots for preserving should be gathered quite dry, and with the sun upon them. For dessert, they should be plucked in the morning, and placed in a cool room till wanted.

Under Glass. The Apricot will hardly bear forcing. It is more sensitive to heat than almost any other of our semi-hardy fruits. Practically, it is found that a confined atmosphere, or the slightest excess of heat, brings its blooms off in showers, and this, of course, mars all prospect of fruit. But in cold climates and northern latitudes under glass is the best and only means of growing them. Should red-spider appear, it is proof that the roots or the atmosphere, probably both, have been too dry; more moisture, and syringing over the leaves, are the surest remedies. The borders need to be about 2ft. or 2ft. 6in. deep, of any light rich soil. Fresh planted trees should be frequently syringed overhead before and after the flowering period. After they have become fully established, less overhead sprinkling is needed. During all the earlier stages of growth, and until the fruit are stoned, an artificial temperature of 45deg. should not be exceeded. After that stage, the fruit will bear a heat of 50deg. or 55deg. It is hardly safe or desirable to exceed the latter under glass, and unless abundance of air is given, 55deg. may bring off the fruit, even at an advanced stage. A thorough soaking, at intervals of fourteen days during the height of the growing season, may be applied; and, should the trees be heavily cropped, manure water may be given at every alternate watering. It is also a good practice to mulch the surface of heavily cropped trees with 3in. or 4in. of good dung. The fruit should, however, be freely thinned to distances of from 4in. to 6in. apart at the most. There are three general methods of growing them under glass: The trees may be trained on trellises or walls; grown as natural standards, tall or dwarf; and as bushes, either planted out or in pots.

Varieties. The varieties of Apricot, unlike most other fruit, are not numerous; and the following will be found in every way representative and satisfactory:

=Blanche=, or =White Masculine=. A small and delicate fruited sort. Fruit pale whitish-yellow, tinged with brownish-red next the sun, covered with a fine white down; rich, delicate, and sugary.

=Blenheim=, or =Shipley's=.* Very early and prolific. Colour deep yellow; flesh medium, rich, and juicy. Ripe in July.

=Breda.=* A small sort, of excellent quality. Colour deep orange; flesh firm, juicy, and rich. Hardiest sort grown.

=Kaisha.=* Fruit round, much smaller than Moorpark. Colour pale citron; flesh tender, rich, juicy; flavour delicate and delicious; kernel very sweet.

=Large Red.= The deepest coloured of all. Fruit very large; colour deep reddish-orange; flesh rich and juicy; kernel bitter.

=Moorpark.=* The sort most generally grown; large, handsome, and of excellent quality. Colour brownish-orange; flesh rich, juicy, and sweet. It is one of the best and most useful sorts in cultivation.

=Peach=, or =Grosse Peche=. Distinct and very desirable. Fruit very large; flesh rich, firm, and juicy. One of the very best.

=Royal.=* Not unlike Moorpark, but with a more robust constitution, and less given to limb dying. Fruit large, dull, yellow, rich, and juicy.

=Turkey.=* A good variety. Colour pale yellow; flavour rich and juicy; flesh firm.

For modes of Training and Budding, Diseases, Insect Pests, &c., full information will be found under each individual title.

=APTERANTHES.= See =Boucerosia=.

=APTEROUS.= Without wings.

=AQUATIC PLANTS.= The culture of Aquatic Plants, both indoors and in the open air, has been greatly neglected of late years; they are, therefore, rarely seen to perfection in places other than where their culture is made a speciality. Generally speaking, they are most easily grown. The following stove and greenhouse genera are well worth attention: Aponogeton, Cyperus, Damasonium, Herpestis, Limnocharis, Nelumbium, Nymphœa, Ouvirandra, Pistia, Pontederia, Salvinia, Thalia, Trianea, Victoria. Many species belonging to some of the foregoing genera are hardy, as are also the following: Alisma, Butomus, Calla, Hottonia, Menyanthes, Nuphar, Polygonum, Sagittaria, Trapa, Typha, Villarsia.

=AQUATICUS.= Living in water.

=AQUATILIS.= Living under water.

=AQUIFOLIACEÆ.= See =Ilicineæ=.

=AQUILEGIA= (from aquila, an eagle; in reference to the form of the petals). Columbine. ORD. Ranunculaceæ. Erect hardy perennial herbs with fibrous roots. Flowers solitary or panicled, drooping; sepals five, petaloid, deciduous; petals five, concave, spurred; spurs very large, produced downwards into hollow tubes, and frequently curved at the extremity; carpels five, sessile, free. Radical leaves on long stalks, twice or thrice ternate, with trifid-toothed, usually blunt segments. Too much praise can scarcely be lavished upon this elegant genus of plants. They prefer a moist and sheltered situation, with exposure to the sun. The more robust species will thrive in ordinary garden soil, but the rarer and more delicate kinds require a good friable sandy loam and leaf soil, with good drainage. Seed is produced in abundance, and must be sown very thinly, as soon as practicable after being ripe, in a shady place or in pans in a cold frame. When up, and strong enough to remove, the seedlings may be planted out where they are to bloom, allowing every plant at least 9in. each way. The strong-growing kinds may be placed in the border, the dwarf ones on the rockery. When in bloom, the inferior sorts should be weeded out, retaining only the best varieties. To obtain seed true of any species, it is absolutely necessary to plant the separate kinds far apart, and cover them with fine muslin, to prevent the access of insects to the flowers, as none are more easily cross-fertilised. Division of the root is the only way to perpetuate any particular variety with certainty, unless seed is saved in the way mentioned, or imported from the native habitats of particular species. There are many beautiful hybrids, as well as species, in cultivation.

=A. alpina= (alpine).* fl. from 2in. to 3in. in diameter when expanded, deep blue or blue and white, on leafy, two to three-flowered stems; spurs straight, but somewhat incurved at the apex, one-half shorter than the petal limb. May. l. with segments deeply divided into linear lobes. h. 1ft. Alps of Switzerland, in shady humid places, 1731. Plant this on the rockery.

=A. arctica= (Arctic). A form of A. formosa.

=A. atropurpurea= (dark purple). fl. dark purple or bluish violet, about 1in. or 1-1/2in. in diameter when expanded, two or three in a head; spurs straight, equal in length with the petals' limb; sepals about as long as the petals. May. l. petioled, biternate. h. 2ft. to 3ft. Siberia. Border plant.

=A. aurea= (golden).* A synonym of A. chrysantha flavescens.

=A. Bertoloni= (Bertoloni's).* fl. about 1in. across, blue-violet throughout; sepals about 3/4in. long, rounded; petals about the same length; spurs very short, knobbed; stems two to four flowered. June and July. l. small, dark green, and glaucous. A very pretty little alpine, growing about 1ft. high. SYN. A. Reuteri.

=A. cærulea= (sky-blue).* fl. several on a stem, blue and white, sometimes more or less tinted with lilac or claret, rarely pure white, when expanded 2-1/2in. to 3in. in diameter; spur very slender, nearly straight, green tipped, about 2in. long. April to July. l. large, biternate. h. 9in. to 15in. Rocky Mountains, 1864. A very lovely species for the border or base of the rockery. SYNS. A. leptoceras, A. macrantha. See Fig. 133.

=A. c. alba= (white).* fl. the same size and form as the type, white throughout. Rocky Mountains. A very rare and lovely variety; sometimes met with under the name of A. grandiflora.

=A. c. hybrida= (hybrid).* fl. blue and white, not so wide across as the type, but more numerous, and the plant has a much more vigorous habit. Of garden origin.

=A. californica= (Californian).* A form of A. formosa.

=A. canadensis= (Canadian).* fl. scarlet, mixed with yellow, less than 1in. in diameter; spur straight, longer than the limb; styles and stamens protruding; sepals acutish, a little longer than the petals' limb. April to June. l., segments three-parted, bluntish, and deeply toothed at the apex. h. 1ft. to 2ft. North America, 1640. Border or rockery; very pretty. See Fig. 134.

=A. chrysantha= (yellow-flowered).* fl., sepals primrose yellow, spreading horizontally in full expansion, nearly or quite 1in. long, tinted claret at the tip; limb of petals deeper yellow, not quite so long; spur straight, very slender, divergent, 1-1/2in. to 2in. long; stems many-flowered. May to August. l. biternate. h. 3ft. to 4ft. California, 1873. One of the finest of all hardy perennials for the border.

=A. c. flavescens= (yellow). fl. of a uniform bright canary yellow, tinged with red; spur somewhat shorter than in A. canadensis, and slightly incurved. California, 1872. SYN. A. aurea.

=A. eximia= (choice). Synonymous with A. formosa.

=A. formosa= (handsome).* fl., sepals bright red, usually less than 1in. long, with an obtuse green tip; limb of petals yellow, about half as long as the sepals; spurs 1/2in. to 3/4in. long, slender in the lower half, nearly straight, distinctly knobbed at the tip; stems many-flowered. May to September. l. biternate. h. 2ft. to 4ft. North America. Border. The following are synonyms and varieties: A. arctica, A. californica, A. eximia, and A. f. truncata, revealing only trivial differences. There is a very beautiful hybrid known in gardens as A. californica hybrida, with the sepals and petals yellowish, or tinged with orange, while the long slender spurs are orange red; it is one of the handsomest of all. All the forms are very showy, and well worth growing.

=A. fragrans= (fragrant).* fl. white or pale claret purple, finely pubescent, very fragrant; sepals about 1-1/2in. long, not reflexing, twice longer than the broad petals' limb; spur slender, slightly curved, knobbed at the top, same length as the petals; stems few-flowered. May to July. l. biternate. h. 1-1/2ft. to 2ft. Himalayas, 1839. This requires a warm position.

=A. glandulosa= (glandular).* fl., sepals bright lilac blue, about 1-1/2in. long, more than twice the length of the petals' limb; petals white; spur 1/4in. long, or but little more, stout, much incurved; stems one to three-flowered. Spring. l. biternate. h. 8in. to 12in. Siberia, 1822. Extremely pretty. See Fig. 135.

=A. g. jucunda= (pleasant). fl. rather smaller. Very handsome little plants, freely hybridised, and it is necessary to keep raising fresh batches, as they are scarcely more than biennial.

=A. glauca= (glaucous). fl. white, tinted claret, fragrant; sepals 1in. long, not reflexing; limb of petals 3/4in. long; spur straight, or a little curved, about 1/3in. long; stem three to four-flowered. June. l. biternate. h. 1ft. to 1-1/2ft. Himalayas, 1839. Rather tender; plant in a warm dry position.

=A. leptoceras= (slender-horned). A synonym of A. cærulea.

=A. macrantha= (large-flowered). A synonym of A. cærulea.

=A. olympica= (Olympic).* fl. large, delicate mauve blue; petals white, rather shorter than the sepals; spur stout, short, obtuse. l. bi- or triternate, glaucous. h. 1-1/2ft. 1880. Mount Olympus. See Fig. 136.

=A. pyrenaica= (Pyrenean).* fl., sepals bright lilac blue, about 1in. long, but not quite as much broad; limb of petals about 1/2in. long, and half as broad; spur slender, nearly straight, or rather incurved, nearly or quite 3/4in. long, scarcely knobbed at the end; stem one to three-flowered, with small and little compound deep green leaves. Summer. h. 9in. to 12in. Pyrenees, 1818. Plant on the rockery.

=A. Reuteri= (Reuter's). Synonymous with A. Bertoloni.

=A. sibirica= (Siberian).* fl. bright lilac; sepals very blunt, 1in. or a little more in length, spreading or slightly reflexing when fully expanded; limb of petals sometimes white, about 1/2in. long; spur stout, much incurved, 1/2in. to 3/4in. long; stems many-flowered, glabrous. Summer. l. biternate. h. 1ft. Siberia, 1806. Rockery species. Here are referred, by Mr. Baker, A. bicolor, A. Garnieriana, and A. speciosa. See Fig. 137.

=A. thalictrifolia= (Thalictrum-leaved). fl., sepals oblong, acute, lilac blue, about 1/2in. long; limb of petals about as long, and rounded at the top; spurs slender, not quite as long as the sepals; stems about three-flowered. Summer. l. with three-stalked segments cut into deep oblong lobes. h. 2ft. Tyrol, 1879. Entire plant clothed with fine pubescence.

=A. viridiflora= (green-flowered). fl., sepals oval-oblong, shorter than the petals; spurs straight and longer than the petals; stems two to three-flowered. h. 1ft. to 1-1/2ft. Siberia, 1780. Border. Rather a pleasing and sweet-scented green-flowered species, but not very ornamental.

=A. vulgaris= (common). Common Columbine. fl. variously coloured; sepals ovate acute, about 1in. long, and half as broad; limb of the petal rarely exceeding 3/4in. long, and half as much broad, rounded at the apex; spur much incurved, stout, knobbed at the end, as long as the petals; stems many-flowered. Spring and early summer. l. biternate. England, &c. There are numerous varieties of this very handsome species, both double and single-flowered.

=A. v. alba= (white). fl. pure white.

=A. v. a. fl.-pl.= Double white flowers.

=A. v. cærulea nana fl.-pl.= Very dwarf, with double deep blue flowers.

=A. v. hybrida= (hybrid). fl., sepals lilac purple, oblong-lanceolate, less than 1in. long; limb of the petals white, about 1/2in. long; spur scarcely incurved.

=A. v. Vervæneana.= This variety has pretty yellow mottled foliage.

=A. v. Wittmanniana= (Wittmann's). fl. large, bright lilac purple; sepals ovate-acute, 1in. to 1-1/4in. long, more than half as much broad; limb of petals white, about half the length of sepals; spur curved. A very fine variety.

The following names are also met with in gardens, some of which represent specific forms, but none are effective as garden ornaments: advena, Burgeriana, Haylodgensis (hybrid), grata, longissima, nevadensis, oxysepala, &c.

=AQUOSUS.= Watery.

=ARABIS= (origin of the word not clear). Wall Cress; Rock Cress. ORD. Cruciferæ. Hardy perennial trailers, except where otherwise stated. Flowers mostly white; racemes terminal; pedicels bractless. Radical leaves usually stalked; cauline ones sessile or stem-clasping, entire or toothed, rarely lobed. Most members of this genus are peculiarly well adapted for rockwork and the alpine garden, both from their natural hardihood as well as their early and profuse flowering habits. They are of the easiest possible culture in any dry soil. The perennial species may either be increased by divisions of the root, by cuttings, placed in a shady border during the summer, or by seed. The latter may be sown outside, or in pans, in spring, when most of them will germinate in two or three weeks. The annuals and biennials are for the most part devoid of any cultural beauty.

=A. albida= (whitish).* fl. white; racemes terminal; pedicels longer than the calyx. January to May. l. few-toothed, hoary, or downy with branched hairs; radical ones obovate-oblong; cauline ones cordately sagittate, clasping the stem. h. 6in. to 9in. Tauria and Caucasus, 1798. SYN. A. caucasica.

=A. a. variegata= (variegated).* A very pretty variegated form for edgings.

=A. alpina= (alpine).* fl. white, smaller than those of A. albida; racemes terminal; pedicels longer than the calyx, which is smoothish. March to May. l. many-toothed, lanceolate, acute, villous with branched hairs; radical ones somewhat stalked; cauline ones cordate, clasping the stem. h. 6in. European rocks, in sunny places, 1596. There are one or two varieties, including a variegated-leaved form, in cultivation. See Fig. 138.

=A. arenosa= (sand-loving).* fl. rose coloured, very rarely white or bluish; petals obovate; pedicels spreading. April to July. l. villous, with forked hairs; radical ones pinnatifid, with the upper lobes much larger than the lower; cauline ones deeply toothed. Stem branched, hispid, with simple hairs. h. 6in. Middle Europe, 1798. See Fig. 139.

=A. blepharophylla= (fringed-leaved).* fl. rosy purple; petals roundish, narrowing to the base, with slender claws. Spring. l. naked, except the margins, which are fringed with very stiff hairs; radical ones spathulate; cauline ones oblong, sessile. h. 3in. to 4in. California, 1874. This succeeds best in a cool frame, where it will flower in January.

=A. caucasica= (Caucasus). A synonym of A. albida.

=A. lucida= (shining).* fl. white; petals entire, narrowed at the base, twice as long as the calyx. Summer. l. obovate, thickish, shining, clasping the stem. h. 4in. to 6in. Hungary, 1790. A very pretty species, with a dwarf habit; it is especially adapted for edgings, borders, or rockwork.

=A. l. variegata= (variegated).* A great improvement upon the type, being broadly edged with yellow, and the green somewhat lighter. When grown in tufts or as edging, it is very effective, and should be prevented from flowering. This exceedingly desirable variety is a gem for the rockwork, and when seen in crevices, or in bold tufts, it is very striking. It must be increased by slips or rootlets, which should be taken in early summer.

=A. mollis= (soft). fl. white, in terminal racemes. May to July. l. grossly toothed, somewhat pubescent, with small stellate hairs; lower ones on long petioles, cordate-roundish; cauline ones ovate-cordate, clasping the stem. h. 2ft. Caucasus, 1823.

=A. petræa= (rock).* fl. white; petals ovate, with stalks. June. l. smooth, ciliated or scabrous, with simple or bifid radical ones on longish stalks, entire, toothed; cauline ones oblong-linear, entire, or toothed. h. 3in. or 4in. Britain.

=A. præcox= (early). fl. white; petals obovately cuneated, double the length of the calyx. April to June. l. oblong, acute, sessile, quite entire, smooth. Stem covered with close pressed rigid hairs. h. 6in. to 9in. Hungary.

=A. procurrens= (procurrent). fl. white; petals obovate, double the length of the calyx. May and June. l. ovate, quite entire, smooth, ciliated with two-parted hairs; radical ones narrowed into a petiole; cauline ones sessile, pointed. Stolons creeping. h. 9in. Servia, 1819. There is a brilliantly variegated form of this pretty species well worth growing.

=A. rosea= (rosy).* fl. rosy purple; petals oblong, somewhat wedge-shaped, double the length of the calyx; pedicels longer than the calyx. May to July. l., cauline ones oblong, somewhat cordate, and rather stem-clasping, scabrous with branched hairs. h. 1ft. Calabria, 1832.

=A. verna= (spring). fl. small, purple, with a white claw; pedicels shorter than the calyx. May to June. l., cauline ones cordate, clasping the stem, toothed, scabrous with three-parted hairs. h. 3in. to 6in. South Europe, 1710. The best annual species.

=ARACEÆ= or =AROIDEÆ=. An extensive order of herbaceous plants, with tuberous rhizomes. Flowers on a spadix, unisexual or hermaphrodite, protected by a spathe. Leaves large, radical. Well known genera belonging to this order are: Alocasia, Arum, Caladium, Colocasia, and Dieffenbachia.

=ARACHIS= (from a, without, and rachis, a branch; plant branchless). Ground or Earth Nut. ORD. Leguminosæ. A stove annual, of economical value. Corolla resupinate; calyx a long tube, with a bilabiate limb; ovary stipitate, inclosed in the tube of the calyx; the stipe at first short, but afterwards becoming elongated. Sandy loam is the soil most suitable for their cultivation. Seeds should be sown in heat; and, when the plants have grown to a sufficient size, they should be potted off singly, and placed among other stove annuals. After the plant has finished flowering, and the pods begin to lengthen, the pedicels force them into the earth, where they ripen their seeds.

=A. hypogæa= (underground). Monkey Nut. fl. yellow, five to seven together in the axils of the leaves. May. l. abruptly-pinnate, bearing two pairs of leaflets, without any tendril; stipulas elongated, adnate to the petioles. h. 1ft., or procumbent. South America, 1812. See Fig. 140.

=ARACHNIMORPHA.= A synonym of =Rondeletia= (which see).

=ARACHNOID.= Resembling a cobweb in appearance; seeming to be covered with cobweb, in consequence of the entanglement of long, white hairs.

=ARALIA= (meaning unknown). ORD. Araliaceæ. This widely-grown genus includes stove, greenhouse, and hardy, herbaceous and shrubby plants. Flowers inconspicuous, umbellate, the umbels usually disposed in panicles; petals five, inserted on the margin of the disk; stamens five (see Fig. 142). Leaves usually compound. These plants are of moderately free growth, and the majority are easy to manage. Those requiring indoor treatment thrive well under the ordinary routine of management. One most important requirement, however, is that they must be kept well supplied with water at the roots. The finer, or stove varieties, should be potted in a mixture of sandy loam and peat, with the addition of a little fibrous leaf soil, and sufficient sand to keep the whole porous. The stronger growing kinds thrive in a richer compost. Propagation by cuttings of the roots is a common and very successful method. To obtain the roots, one of the strongest plants should be turned out of the pot, and the roots should be cleared of soil by shaking or washing it out; the requisite number of pieces should then be selected. As each piece is removed, it should have the end nearest the stem cut horizontally, to distinguish it from the other or furthermost end. In planting cuttings of the roots, it is best to place the end nearest the stem uppermost. The pieces may be left about 2in. long, and should be inserted in pots, well drained, and filled with sandy soil, leaving the tops of the cuttings about level with the surface of the soil. A square of glass must be placed over the top of each pot, plunging them in moderate bottom heat. The stems of the plants from which the roots have been taken may be cut into pieces 1in. or 1-1/2in. long, leaving an eye or bud near the top; a slice of half the shoot may be taken off opposite the bud. When prepared, these pieces should be pressed into pots of sand or sandy soil, and plunged into bottom heat. The stems may be cut down without disturbing the roots; in that case, if the pots are plunged in bottom heat, and kept moderately supplied with water, they will probably throw up several suckers or shoots from the roots. These, if taken off with a portion of root to each, and placed in small sized pots, will, with a little care, soon make useful plants. All the hardy species and most of the greenhouse ones are propagated readily by cuttings or pieces of roots. Some of the stove species, however, are very difficult to increase, except by grafting. Among these are A. leptophylla, A. Veitchii, &c. These should be worked on stocks of A. Guilfoylei or A. reticulata, the latter being the better of the two. Cuttings of either of these strike readily, and stocks fit for grafting are easily procured. In sheltered and warm positions, the greenhouse species are admirably suited for sub-tropical gardening, either planted singly or in groups. See also =Dimorphanthus=, =Fatsia=, =Hedera=, =Heptapleurum=, =Monopanax=, =Oreopanax=, and =Panax=.

=A. canescens= (greyish). A garden synonym of A. chinensis.

=A. Chabrierii= (Chabrier's).* l. alternate, pinnate, about a foot long; pinnæ opposite, 6in. to 9in. long, linear-lanceolate, deep green, with a heavy crimson midrib. 1882. Suitable for table decoration. A charming stove species.

=A. chinensis= (Chinese).* fl. white; panicles terminal; peduncles umbelliferous. l. petiolate, coriaceous, woolly on both surfaces when young (only); pinnæ seven, ovate, serrated at the apex, erect and distinct. h. 5ft. to 6ft. 1838. This species, if planted in a soil with a dry porous bottom, will prove to be hardy. SYN. A. canescens, of gardens. See Fig. 141.

=A. concinna= (neat). l. unequally pinnate; pinnæ lobed and serrate. Stem spotted. New Caledonia, 1879. A handsome stove species, but very rare. SYNS. A. spectabilis, Delarbrea spectabilis.

=A. crassifolia= (thick-leaved). A synonym of Pseudopanax crassifolium.

=A. edulis= (edible).* fl. numerous, white; umbels globose, axillary and terminal, united into simple or compound racemes. Summer. l., lower ones pinnate, with five leaflets, or three pinnate, with divisions of three to five leaflets; upper ones generally simple, with stalked leaflets, having a cordate base, ovate, acute, finely toothed, downy. h. 4ft. to 6ft. Japan, 1843. Hardy, herbaceous, perennial, hairy, and spineless.

=A. elegantissima= (most elegant).* l. digitate, on long dark green footstalks, which are mottled with white; leaflets seven to ten, filiform, and, being pendulous, impart a very graceful character to the plant. Stem straight, erect. South Sea Islands, 1873. Stove species, excellent for table decoration.

=A. filicifolia= (fern-leaved).* l., leafstalks sheathing at the base, and terete in the upper part, expanding into a broad leafy limb which is impari-pinnately divided; pinnæ opposite, deeply pinnatifid, bright green, with a purplish midrib. Stem and leafstalks purplish, thickly marked with oblong white spots. Polynesia, 1876.

=A. gracillima= (most graceful). Synonymous with A. Veitchii gracillima.

=A. Guilfoylei= (Guilfoyle's).* l. pinnate, on long smooth terete petioles; leaflets oblong-elliptic, bluntish, from three to seven, they are sometimes obscurely lobed, and irregularly spinose, serrate, varying in size from 2in. to 3in. long, neatly and evenly margined with creamy white, the surface being in addition occasionally splashed with grey. Stem erect, copiously dotted with lenticular markings. South Sea Islands, 1876. Stove species.

=A. heteromorpha= (many-formed).* l. sometimes ovate-lanceolate and serrated, and at others bifid or even trifid at the apex, about 6in. to 8in. or 9in. long, bright shining green. A very desirable species, of robust and compact habit.

=A. japonica= (Japanese). Another name for Fatsia japonica.

=A. Kerchoveana= (Count Kerchove's). l. digitate, almost circular in outline; leaflets nine to eleven, spreading, elliptic-lanceolate, conspicuously serrated or undulated margins, of a deep glossy green relieved by a pale midrib. 1883. A very elegant slender-stemmed plant from the South Sea Islands, and likely to prove valuable for decorative purposes. Stove species.

=A. leptophylla= (slender-leaved).* l. compound, bearing often seven or more petiolate leaflets of a somewhat pendent character, and dark green in colour. 1862. An elegant stove or greenhouse slender growing species.

=A. longipes= (long-stalked). l. digitate, long stalked, and rather distant; leaflets oblanceolate acuminate, slightly undulated at the edge; petioles elongated. Stems simple. North Australia, 1882. A very distinct erect-growing evergreen stove species.

=A. maculata= (spotted). l. of a light green colour; leaflets oblong-acuminate, in about four pairs. Stem erect, which, as well as the stalks of the leaves, is of a blackish-purple hue, thickly spotted with green dots. This peculiar colouring is very distinct and conspicuous. South Pacific Islands. Stove species.

=A. Maximowiczii= (Maximowicz's).* l. on long stalks, palmately five to seven-lobed; lobes lanceolate, 3-1/2in. long, serrate. Japan, 1874. An elegant and distinct hardy shrub, with erect spiny stem. SYN. Acanthopanax ricinifolium.

=A. monstrosa= (monstrous).* l. pendent, pinnate; leaflets three to seven, oblong elliptic, deeply and irregularly serrated (this serration sometimes takes most fantastic forms), broadly margined with creamy white, the surface blotched with grey. South Sea Islands, 1880. Stove species.

=A. nudicaulis= (naked-stemmed).* fl. greenish; scape trifid at the apex, shorter than the leaf, each division bearing a many-flowered umbel. June. l. radical, the divisions pinnately five foliate; leaflets oblong-oval, with a long tapering point, serrate. Root horizontal, very long. h. 3ft. to 4ft. North America, 1731. Quite hardy, herbaceous perennial.

=A. Osyana= (Osyan).* Resembling A. leptophylla, but with leaflets deeply bifid at the ends; surface colour bright green; primary veins and tips of the leaflets chocolate brown. South Sea Islands, 1870. Very elegant stove species.

=A. pentaphylla= (five-leaved).* l. digitate, or sometimes only three leaflets are produced, each varying from 6in. to 10in. in length, and from 1in. to 2in. in breadth, deeply lobed or pinnatifid, bright shining green. Stem arboreous, prickly. h. 20ft. Japan. SYN. Panax spinosa.

=A. p. variegata= (variegated). l. broadly edged with creamy white. Japan, 1874.

=A. quercifolia= (oak-leaved).* l. opposite, trifoliate; leaflets deeply sinuate; lower petioles about 3in. long, light shining green. New Britain, 1880. Very pretty stove species.

=A. racemosa= (raceme-flowering).* fl. greenish-white, petals spreading; peduncles axillary, disposed in a terminal raceme, umbelliferous. June. l. petioles tripartite, the partitions bearing each three to five ovate or cordate, acuminated, serrated, smoothish leaflets. h. 3ft. to 4ft. North America, 1658. Hardy herbaceous species, highly ornamental. See Fig. 142.

=A. reticulata= (netted). l. alternate, strap-shaped when young, becoming larger with age, dark green, reticulated with a lighter shade of the same colour. A very handsome species, requiring stove heat during winter. In spring and summer it is admirably suited for conservatory or indoor decoration, having a light and graceful aspect.

=A. rotunda= (round). l. sometimes of a single leaflet only, which is spreading, orbicular, cordate at the base, margined with distinct white tipped teeth; at other times, especially when approaching maturity, the leaves are trifoliate, the leaflets being rounded and toothed, and the terminal one being about double the size of the lateral ones. Stems erect, brownish-green, spotted when young with pale elongate blotches. Polynesia, 1882.

=A. Scheffleri= (Scheffler's). l. on long petioles, digitate; leaflets five, petiolulate, lanceolate, attenuated at the base, serrulated, glabrous on both surfaces. Stem shrubby, smooth. New Zealand. Greenhouse species.

=A. spectabilis= (showy). A synonym of A. concinna.

=A. spinosa= (thorny).* Angelica Tree. l. doubly and triply pinnate; leaflets ovate, acuminated, deeply serrated. Stem simple, prickly (as are also the petioles), forming into an umbrella-like head, deciduous. h. 8ft. to 12ft. North America, 1688. A very fine hardy species for sheltered spots.

=A. spinulosa= (small-spined). l. alternate, pinnate; pinnæ ovate acuminate, dark green, margined with little reddish-crimson spines or prickles. Stems and petioles spotted and suffused with crimson. 1880. A bold and robust stove plant.

=A. ternata= (three-leafleted).* l. opposite, ternate; leaflets oblong-lanceolate; margins in some cases deeply serrate, in others sinuate, light green. New Britain, 1879. A slender growing species.

=A. trifolia= (three-leaved). A synonym of Pseudopanax Lessonii.

=A. Veitchii= (Veitch's).* l. digitate, with about eleven filiform undulated leaflets, glossy green above, dark red beneath; petioles long and slender. New Caledonia, 1867. A very handsome (said to be the best) species, with slender, erect growing stem. See Fig. 143, for which we are indebted to Messrs. Veitch and Sons.

=A. V. gracillima= (most graceful).* l. alternate, spreading; leaflets nearly linear, but slightly narrowed at both ends, having a prominent ivory-white central rib. South Sea Islands, 1876. An erect growing species, with an elegantly graceful habit. It is allied to A. reticulata, but is more handsome. This charming variety is undoubtedly the finest for table decoration, and is frequently grafted upon stocks of the typical form. It enjoys plenty of heat. SYN. A. gracillima.

=ARALIACEÆ.= An order of trees, shrubs, or (rarely) herbaceous plants, often pubescent, and sometimes spiny. Flowers variously disposed, hermaphrodite or unisexual, regular; petals usually five, and valvate. Leaves alternate, or (rarely) opposite. This order is closely allied to Umbelliferæ; and the best known genera are Aralia and Hedera.

=ARAR-TREE.= A common name for =Callitris quadrivalvis= (which see).

=ARAUCARIA= (from Araucanos, its name in Chili). SYN. Eutacta. ORD. Coniferæ. A noble genus of diœcious or sub-diœcious evergreen trees, with usually imbricated persistent flat sessile scale-like leaves. Male cones large, cylindrical, terminal; female ones very large, globular, terminal, with dense ligneous deciduous scales, each bearing a solitary seed. The majority of the species are not, unfortunately, sufficiently hardy to withstand our winters out of doors. Few trees can compete with them in symmetry and elegant proportion for conservatory decoration, where they may be grown in large tubs, or planted out. Small plants grown in pots are most serviceable for table and other decorative purposes. They thrive in a good fibrous loam, mixed with leaf soil and sand. Propagation by means of seed is the surest and most satisfactory method; the seed should be sown in pans or boxes, or if in large quantities, in a bed, with but gentle heat; they usually take some time to germinate. Cuttings are procured by taking off the leading shoots, and fixing them firmly in a pot of sand; they first require a cool place, but may afterwards be subjected to slight warmth. When rooted, they should be potted off into the soil above mentioned. The young growths which afterwards shoot from the plant, whence the cutting, may be taken off and treated in much the same manner. These are the only methods of propagation worth pursuing.

=A. Balansæ= (Balansa's). male cones cylindrical-conical, 2in. female cones elliptic globose, 4in.; scales obovate, cuneate. l. arcuately-uncinate, ovate triangular, imbricated round the distichous, simple branchlets. h. 130ft. to 160ft. New Caledonia, 1875. A fine greenhouse plumosely branched tree.

=A. Bidwillii= (Bidwill's).* Bunya-Bunya Pine; Moreton Bay Pine. cones sub-globose, longest diameter 10in. to 12in., shortest 9in. to 10in. l. ovate-lanceolate, in two nearly horizontal rows, acuminated, slightly convex above, concave beneath, leathery, deep shining green. h. 150ft. Moreton Bay. Habit very regular and symmetrical. Greenhouse species.

=A. brasiliensis= (Brazilian). l. oblong-lanceolate, much attenuated at the point, loosely imbricated, deep green; lower part of the trunk usually free from branches, terminating in a rounded head. h. 70ft. to 100ft. Brazil, 1819. A. b. gracilis, and A. b. Ridolfiana are two forms of this species.

=A. columnaris= (columnar). A synonym of A. Cookii.

=A. Cookii= (Cook's).* l. awl-shaped, short, densely imbricated around the frondose branches. Described by Mr. Abbay as having "a somewhat curious habit, even when growing alone, of shedding their branches for five-sixths or more of their height, and then replacing them by a smaller and more bushy growth, so that the tree at a distance presents a very columnar appearance, the resemblance being increased by the summit being crowned with a mass of foliage somewhat like a capital." h. 200ft. New Caledonia, 1851. SYN. A. columnaris.

=A. Cunninghami= (Cunningham's).* l. on the sterile branches needle-shaped, obscurely quadrangular, rigid, acute; on the fertile branches shorter, stouter, closely appressed, bright green; upper branches ascending, lower ones horizontal. h. 100ft. Moreton Bay. This fine species we have found to be quite hardy on the south-west coast of England.

=A. C. glauca= (milky-green). A very handsome variety, with silvery glaucous leaves.

=A. excelsa= (lofty).* The Norfolk Island Pine. l. awl-shaped, curved, sharply acuminated, bright green, densely packed on the frondose, deltoid, horizontal, or pendulous branches. When well grown, this is a beautifully symmetrical greenhouse or conservatory species, attaining to a height of 150ft., and a circumference of 20ft. or more. Norfolk Island. This is especially desirable in a small state. There are several varieties known, the best being: A. e. glauca, having lighter green, and very glaucous foliage; and A. e. robusta, which is larger in all its parts. See Fig. 144.

=A. Goldieana= (Goldie's).* Allied to A. Rulei. l. produced in whorls, pendulous, dark green, varying in size. New Caledonia. Most distinct and elegant for conservatory decoration.

=A. imbricata= (imbricated).* The Monkey Puzzle. fl., male and female catkins on separate trees; the males are six or seven in a cluster, pedunculate, yellow, and oval with numerous scales, imbricated, long, and recurved at the points; the female catkins are oval, with numerous wedge-shaped scales, with narrow oblong brittle points; they are produced at the ends of the branches. cones, when fully ripe globular, from 3in. to 4in. in diameter, dark brown. The branches are horizontal, inflexed, and ascending at the extremities, and are produced in whorls. l. ovate-lanceolate, sessile, thickened at the base, stiff, leathery, straight, somewhat keeled-shaped below, and strongly mucronate at the apex; verticillate, with seven or eight in a whorl, imbricate, and closely encircling the branches, concave, glabrous, shining, marked with longitudinal lines, dotted on both sides. h. 50ft. to 100ft. Chili, 1796. A well known hardy tree, of striking aspect, and indispensable to Arboreta and shrubberies. See Fig. 145.

=A. Rulei= (Rule's).* male cones oblong obtuse; female cones oval. l. oblong-lanceolate, with a prominent dorsal nerve, more closely appressed, and less sharply pointed than in the foregoing species; imbricated in four rows. Branches horizontal; branchlets often quite pendulous. h. 50ft. Papuan Archipelago.

=A. R. elegans= (elegant).* l. smaller; whorls of branches closer together; branchlets more slender. An elegant form; and, from its comparative dwarf and graceful habit, should be very generally grown.

=ARBOR.= A tree. A perennial plant, having a distinct bole or trunk, from which the main branches grow.

=ARBORESCENT.= Having a tendency to become a tree.

=ARBORETUM.= A collection of hardy trees formed for pleasure or instruction, and which, when well managed, is a source of much interesting study. They afford shelter, improve the local climate, renovate bad soils, &c., and also, by concealing or hiding disagreeable objects, heighten the effect of agreeable ones, create beauty, and add value. A properly arranged Arboretum should be constructed with a view to picturesque beauty, and not systematically, as is usually the case in Botanic Gardens, although scientific purposes are best served by a systematic arrangement.

=ARBOR-VITÆ.= See =Thuja=.

=ARBOUR.= A seat surrounded by lattice work, covered by Vines, Wistarias, or other climbing plants.

=ARBUTUS= (from arboise, Celtic for austere bush; in allusion to the austere quality of the fruit). Strawberry Tree. ORD. Ericaceæ. Trees and shrubs, with evergreen alternate laurel-like leaves. Corolla globose, or ovately campanulate; petals five, reflexed. Very ornamental subjects for lawns and shrubberies, thriving well in a light sandy or peaty soil. They may be propagated by seeds, which should be sown in sand during March; by budding, and by inarching; the first mentioned method is the one most generally employed, with good results. The various sorts may be grafted, budded, or inarched upon A. Unedo. The greenhouse species are rare in cultivation, but their management does not materially differ from other plants requiring a similar temperature.

=A. Andrachne= (Andrachne).* fl. greenish-white; panicles terminal, erect, clothed with viscid down. March and April. l. oblong, bluntish, entire in some, a little serrated in others, glabrous. h. 10ft. to 14ft. Greece, 1724. A fine ornamental tree.

=A. A. serratifolia= (saw-edge-leaved). fl. yellowish, disposed in rather large terminal clusters. l. serrated, and narrower than those of the species. SYN. A. serratifolia.

=A. andrachnoides= (Andrachne-like). A synonym of A. hybrida.

=A. canariensis= (Canary). fl. greenish-white; panicles erect, hispid. May. l. oblong-lanceolate, serrated, glaucous beneath. h. 8ft. to 10ft. Canary Islands, 1796. Greenhouse.

=A. densiflora= (thickly-flowered).* fl. white; corolla oval; pedicels furnished with three bracteas at the base; panicle terminal, composed of closely packed racemes. l. 4in. to 5in. long, on long petioles, oblong, acute, sharply toothed, coriaceous, glabrous above and shining, but downy beneath, the middle nerve with rusty villi; branches angular, hairy. h. 20ft. Mexico, 1826. Greenhouse.

=A. hybrida= (hybrid).* fl. white; panicle terminal, pendulous, downy. September to December. l. oblong, acute, serrated, glabrous; branches pilose. h. 10ft. to 0ft. A half-hardy garden hybrid; it originated about 1800. SYN. A. andrachnoides.

=A. Menziesi= (Menzies').* fl. white; racemes axillary and terminal, panicled, dense-flowered. September. l. broad-oval, quite entire, glabrous, on long petioles. h. 6ft. to 10ft. North-west America, 1827. A noble hardy tree. A. laurifolia comes close to this species. SYN. A. procera.

=A. mollis= (soft). fl. rosy, drooping; panicle terminal, crowded, racemose. June. l. oblong-acute, sharply toothed, coriaceous, clothed with soft pubescence above, and white tomentum beneath. h. 6ft. Mexico. Greenhouse shrub.

=A. mucronata= (mucronate). A synonym of Pernettya mucronata.

=A. pilosa= (pilose). A synonym of Pernettya pilosa.

=A. procera= (tall).* A synonym of A. Menziesi.

=A. serratifolia= (saw-edge-leaved). A synonym of A. Andrachne serratifolia.

=A. Unedo= (Unedo).* The Strawberry Tree. fl. white, deep red in some of the varieties, nodding, in terminal racemose, bracteate panicles. September. fr. large, scarlet, nearly globose, granular, edible. l. oblong-lanceolate, glabrous, serrulated; branchlets clothed with glandular hairs. h. 8ft. to 10ft. West of Ireland, and South Europe. There are several varieties of this plant in cultivation. It is one of the greatest ornaments in the months of October and November--the season when it is in flower, and when, also, the fruit of the former year is ripe.

=A. Xalapensis= (Xalapan). fl. reddish white; corolla ovate; panicle terminal, composed of many racemes. April. l. petiolate, oblong, acute, quite entire, about 2in. long, glabrous above, but clothed with brownish tomentum beneath; epidermis separating, brownish purple. Young branches glabrous, but beset with ramentæ. h. 6ft. to 9ft. Mexico. Greenhouse species.

=ARCHEGONIUM.= The female organ in ferns, &c., analogous with the ovary in flowering plants.

=ARCTOSTAPHYLOS= (from arktos, a bear, and staphyle, a grape; bears eat the fruit of some species). ORD. Ericaceæ. Handsome hardy or half-hardy shrubs or sub-shrubs, agreeing in generic characters with Arbutus, except that the fruit is five-celled and the cells one-seeded, and not granular on the outside. For culture, &c., see =Arbutus=.

=A. alpina= (alpine).* Black Bearberry. fl. white or flesh-coloured, in terminal, reflexed racemes; pedicels rather hairy. April. l. obovate, acute, wrinkled, serrated, deciduous. Stems procumbent, trailing. Scotland (but rare), &c. SYN. Arbutus alpina.

=A. nitida= (shining).* fl. white; racemes terminal. May. l. oblong-lanceolate, acute, smooth on both sides and shining above. h. 4ft. Mexico, 1839. An erect half-hardy evergreen.

=A. pungens= (stinging).* fl. white; pedicels close; racemes short, at first terminal, but at length lateral. February. l. ovate-oblong, acute, mucronate, rather pungent, quite entire, coriaceous, clothed with fine down on both surfaces; branchlets angular, downy. h. 1ft. Mexico, 1839. A dwarf, much branched, half-hardy evergreen shrub.

=A. tomentosa= (tomentose).* fl. pure white, campanulately urceolate, bracteate; peduncles axillary, shorter than the leaves, somewhat capitately racemose. December. l. oval, acute, sub-cordate at the base, clothed with white tomentum beneath, on short petioles; branches hispid. h. 4ft. North-west America, 1826. Shrubby species; hardy.

=A. Uva-ursi.=* Bearberry. fl. flesh-coloured, with a red mouth, growing in small clusters at the extremities of the branches. April. l. obovate, quite entire, coriaceous, shining. Highlands of Scotland and Wales. A hardy evergreen procumbent trailer. SYN. Arbutus Uva-ursi.

=ARCTOTHECA= (from arktos, a bear, and theke, a capsule; so named from the roughness of the fruit). ORD. Compositæ. Greenhouse herbaceous perennial, allied to Arctotis. Heads radiate; involucral scales imbricate in many rows, the outer linear, herbaceous, inner larger, scariose, very obtuse; receptacle honeycombed, bearing many little fringes; achenes ovate, somewhat four-sided, without wings or pappus. It thrives in a compost of peat, leaf soil, and loam. Propagated by divisions of the plant, or cuttings, in spring. Several species formerly classed in this genus are now included under Arctotis.

=A. repens= (creeping). fl.-heads yellow. July. l. petioled, lyrate-pinnatifid, green and mostly smooth above, white-woolly beneath. Cape of Good Hope, 1793. A stemless, creeping or decumbent herb.

=ARCTOTIS= (from arktos, a bear, and ous, an ear; in reference to the shaggy fruit). ORD. Compositæ. Mostly half-hardy herbaceous perennials. Involucral bracts numerous, imbricated, scariose on the margin; receptacle pitted, studded with bristles between the florets; achenes grooved, crowned with a pappus of membranous scales. The species of this genus are of easy culture in a compost of loam and leaf soil. Propagated by cuttings at any time of the year; these should be pricked in pots of very sandy soil, and placed in gentle warmth; they must be kept uncovered and moderately dry, or they will rot. The Arctotis are very handsome plants in sunny, dry positions outside during the summer months, but they must be protected during winter.

A. acaulis (stemless).* fl.-heads yellow and red. Summer. l. hoary on each side, ternate, lyrate. Stem very short, decumbent. h. 4in. Cape of Good Hope, 1759. Very rarely met with.

=A. arborescens= (tree-like).* fl.-heads, ray-florets white above, pink beneath; disk-florets yellow; disposed in large circular Daisy-like heads. Summer. l. linear-oblong, pinnate; upper ones amplexicaul; lower ones stalked. h. 2ft. Cape of Good Hope, 1815.

=A. argentea= (silvery). fl.-heads orange. August. l. lanceolate-linear, entire, downy. h. 1ft. Cape of Good Hope, 1774.

=A. aureola= (golden). Synonymous with A. grandiflora.

=A. breviscapa= (short-stalked). Synonymous with A. speciosa.

=A. grandiflora= (large-flowered).* fl.-heads orange; outer scales of involucre reflexed, cuneate, oblong, with a broad short point, somewhat cobwebbed. July. l. pinnatifid, serrulate, three-nerved. h. 1-1/2ft. Cape of Good Hope, 1710. SYNS. A. aureola and A. undulata.

=A. reptans= (creeping). fl.-heads white, orange. July. l. hairy beneath; lower lyrate toothed; upper lanceolate toothed. Stem ascending. h. 8in. Cape of Good Hope, 1795.

=A. rosea= (rosy). fl.-heads pink. Autumn. l. spathulate-lanceolate, repand-toothed, hoary. Stem procumbent. Cape of Good Hope, 1793.

=A. speciosa= (showy).* fl.-heads yellow; outer scales of involucre linear recurved. July. l. lyrate, pinnatifid, hoary beneath, three-nerved. Plant stemless. h. 1-1/2ft. Cape of Good Hope, 1812. Closely allied to A. acaulis. SYN. A. breviscapa.

=A. undulata= (wavy). Synonymous with A. grandiflora.

=ARCUATE, ARCUATED.= Curved or bent like a bow; forming an arch.

=ARDISIA.= (from ardis, a point; in reference to the acute, spear-pointed anthers). SYN. Pyrgus. ORD. Myrsineæ. An extensive genus of greenhouse or stove, mostly ornamental, evergreen trees and shrubs. Flowers white or rose-coloured, more or less panicled; panicles sometimes many-flowered at the extremities of the branches, and longer than the leaves, sometimes few-flowered and in the axils of the leaves. Leaves alternate, rarely almost opposite, or three in a whorl, dotted. Propagated by cuttings of the half-ripened wood taken from the side shoots of the plant any time from March to September; but, as the points of these side shoots bear the blossoms and fruit, they are not well adapted for making good plants. To obtain the best plants, the largest, ripest, and best-coloured berries should be sown early in spring, as soon as gathered, in a wide-mouthed pot or seed pan, well drained and filled with loam and peat in equal parts, with the addition of some sand, and plunged in bottom heat, the soil being kept moderately moist. The seeds will germinate in a few weeks after sowing, and when about 2in. high, the strongest seedlings should be selected and placed in 3in. pots, the same mixture of soil being used, with the addition of a fourth part well decomposed manure. After potting, the plants must be moistened overhead twice a day with a fine rose or syringe, and be kept in a close atmosphere until the roots have taken to the fresh soil. When the plants begin to grow again, they should be removed to a light situation in the house; and when the pots are well filled with roots, a shift into 6in. pots may be effected, water being given judiciously until well established, and here they may remain to fruit. Until the berries are coloured, clear manure water, given once or twice a week, will be found beneficial. The plants arrive at their best when about 18in. or 2ft. high; after that, they begin to get naked at the bottom. It will then be wise to cut the worst plants down to within 2in. of the pots, in early spring, allowing them to become dry at the roots before this operation is performed. By giving moisture to the roots when the cut has become dry, the plants will soon break into growth again, when some of the worst placed shoots should be rubbed off, leaving only one or two of the strongest and best placed, calculated to develop into a well formed plant. When the shoots have grown 2in. or 3in., the plants should be turned out of their pots, the soil shaken out from the roots, and the long ends of the roots trimmed in a little with a knife; they must then be placed in a pot sufficiently large to hold the roots without squeezing. The plants should now occupy the warmest end of the house in which they are grown, care being taken in watering until new roots are formed, when they may have more air and somewhat liberal supplies of water. As soon as they are sufficiently advanced in growth, they should be transferred to a larger-sized pot. With proper treatment, they will flower and fruit the same season as they are cut down, and form handsome plants. Although most species of this genus are classed as stove plants, they will succeed very well in a temperature that does not fall below 45deg. in winter; and, when so grown, they are not so liable to become infested with large brown scale and other insect pests. This is particularly the case with A. crenulata, and cool treatment is also favourable to the ripe berries hanging on the plants for a much longer time than when grown in a stove. Moreover, they do not suffer so much when removed for decorative purposes.

=A. acuminata= (taper-pointed). fl. nearly white; petals small, acute, dotted; panicles terminal and axillary, many-flowered. July. l. entire, glabrous, oblong, acuminated, attenuated at the base. h. 6ft. to 8ft. Guiana, 1803.

=A. crenulata= (round-notched-leaved).* fl. reddish violet; panicles terminal; pedicels umbellate. June. Berries numerous, bright coral-like. l. lanceolate-ovate, tapering at both ends, repandly crenulated, pilose. h. 3ft. to 6ft. Mexico, 1809. When grown in a cool atmosphere, as previously alluded to, it is quite common for one crop of berries to hang on the plants until another crop is ripe. This is a splendid plant, superior even to the red-berried Solanums for decorative purposes, for which it is largely grown. See Fig. 146.

=A. crispa= (curled). fl. small, drooping, red; cymes terminal, usually solitary, often compound; pedicels smooth, finely veined, umbellate, drooping. July. Berries red, size of peas. l. bluntish, oblong-lanceolate, attenuated at both ends, with repandly crenulated glandular edges, glabrous. h. 4ft. India, 1809.

=A. humilis= (humble). fl. rose-coloured; peduncles solitary, bearing each a simple racemose umbel of many pretty, large, drooping flowers; petals lanceolate, first recurved, afterwards revolute. June. Berries size of peas, shining, black, juicy. l. oblong-lanceolate, acuminated at both ends, glabrous, veined, shining. h. 4ft. India, 1820.

=A. japonica= (Japanese).* fl. white; pedicels red, sub-umbellate, secund, drooping; racemes simple, axillary. June. l. nearly opposite, or three to five in a whorl, on short petioles, cuneate-oblong, acute, glabrous, serrated; 4in. long. h. 1ft. Japan. Perhaps the hardiest of all the species.

=A. macrocarpa= (large-fruited).* fl. flesh-coloured, dotted; petals ovate, obtuse; racemes terminal, corymbose, almost sessile, slightly hairy. Berries vermilion coloured, as large as gooseberries. l. oblong, acute, tapering downwards, glandularly crenated, dotted, close together, leathery, 6in. to 8in. long, paler beneath, veinless. h. 5ft. to 6ft. Nepaul, 1824. A beautiful shrub.

=A. Oliveri= (Oliver's).* fl. rose pink, white eye: corolla rotate, 1/2in. across; lobes obtuse; heads terminal, consisting of a number of stalked, many-flowered corymbs; pedicels about twice as long as the flower. July. l. nearly sessile, entire, glabrous, 6in. to 8in. long, by 2in. in the broadest portion; oblanceolate, acuminate, tapering towards the base. Costa Rica, 1876.

=A. paniculata= (panicled).* fl. rose-coloured; panicles terminal, composed of many alternate compound branches, large and elegant; petals and sepals ovate. July. Berries red, smooth, size of a pea, juicy. l. glabrous, cuneate-oblong, almost sessile, reflexed, 6in. to 20in. long, and from 3in. to 5in. broad, crowded at the ends of the branches. h. 8ft. to 10ft. India, 1818.

=A. punctata= (dotted). fl. greyish white, sub-campanulate, secund, beset with dark dots, and the pedicels with dark lines; peduncles umbellate, terminal, and axillary; umbels involucrated by deciduous bracts. June. l. glabrous, lanceolate, leathery, repandly crenated, tapering to the base. h. 6ft. to 10ft. China, 1822.

=A. serrulata= (finely serrated).* fl. deep red; petals ciliated; calyces and pedicels coloured; panicles terminal; pedicels umbellate. July. l. glabrous, lanceolate, acuminated, wrinkled, serrulated, beset with rusty dots beneath; branches downy. h. 2ft. to 3ft. China, 1820.

=A. villosa= (hairy). fl. whitish, umbels axillary and terminal, very villous. October. Berries villous. l. lanceolate, acuminated, villous beneath, crenulated, 5in. to 7in. long, tapering to the base, copiously dotted. China. All the upper parts of the plant are densely beset with hairs.

=A. v. mollis= (soft).* This variety has very fine red berries, and is superior to the type.

=A. Wallichii= (Wallich's). fl. red, in loose racemes; peduncles axillary, one-half shorter than the leaves, and are, as well as the pedicels, pilose. July. l. obovate, acute, or obtuse, narrowed into the marginate petioles, repandly crenulated, 4in. to 5in. long, and 2in. broad, thickish. h. 2ft. India.

=ARDUINA= (in honour of P. Arduini, curator of the Economical Garden of Padua, in the time of Linnæus). ORD. Apocynaceæ. A singular and pretty greenhouse evergreen shrub, of easy culture in carefully drained pots of peat and loam, mixed in equal proportions. Propagated by cuttings in sand, under a glass. The winter temperature should not be allowed to fall below 40deg.

=A. bispinosa= (two-spined). fl. small, white, sweet-scented, terminal, corymbose. March to August. Berry red. l. cordate-ovate, mucronate, nearly sessile, dark green, larger than those of Box. Spines twin, simple, but usually bifid; in this last case, one of the clefts points downwards, and the other upwards. h. 3ft. to 5ft. Cape of Good Hope, 1760. SYN. Carissa Arduina.

=ARECA= (Areec is its name in Malabar, when an old tree). The Cabbage Palm. ORD. Palmeæ. This genus is now broken up into several, and many species formerly here arranged are now found under Acanthophœnix, Euterpe, Hyophorbe, Kentia, Oncosperma, Phænicophorum. Very ornamental and graceful stove palms, with a branching spadix, and double spathe, which incloses the flowers. Flowers unisexual, borne upon the same spike; female flowers having six rudimentary stamens, and male flowers a six-cleft perianth. Fruit one-seeded. They thrive in a compost of loam, peat, and leaf soil, in equal parts, with a liberal addition of sand; but when they are fully grown, loam should preponderate to the extent of about two-thirds, and some rotten cow-manure may be added. Propagated from seeds, which should be sown in a compost similar to above, and placed in a moist gentle heat. They are employed, when young, with much success for the decoration of drawing rooms and dinner tables.

=A. Aliciæ= (Princess Alice's). l. pinnatisect; segments sessile. North Australia. A very handsome species, with a comparatively dwarf habit; it is a valuable decorative plant.

=A. Catechu= (Catechu). l. pinnate, from 3ft. to 6ft. long; leaflets 12in. to 24in. in length, and about 2in. broad, light green; petioles broadly sheathed at the base. h. 30ft. India, 1690. One of the best and oldest species in cultivation, very effective, in a young state, for dinner table decoration. It produces the Betel nut, of which enormous quantities are used in India.

=A. concinna= (neat). l. pinnatisect, sub-glabrous; segments sickle-shaped, much acuminated. Stem green, 8ft. to 12ft. high, 1in. to 2in. in diameter. Ceylon. The Cingalese chew the albumen of the seeds with their Betel.

=A. gigantea= (gigantic). A synonym of Pinanga ternatensis.

=A. glandiformis= (gland-formed). l. pinnatisect, 9ft. to 12ft. long when fully grown. h. 30ft. Moluccas. A handsome stove palm, of bold aspect, and very suitable, when young, for decorative purposes.

=A. Normanbyi= (Normanby's). A synonym of Ptychosperma Normanbyi.

=A. triandra= (three-stamened). l. pinnate, like those of A. Catechu in size, &c. h. 20ft. India, introduced to Britain about 1810.

=ARENARIA= (from arena, sand; in which most of the species are found). Sandwort. ORD. Caryophyllaceæ. TRIBE Alsineæ. A very large genus of hardy herbaceous plants, consisting of about 150 species. It is distinguished by having generally three styles. The perennials only are worth growing; these are extremely pretty little alpine plants, and will thrive in any ordinary soil in exposed places; the rarer species may be grown in small pots, well drained, in a mixture of sand, loam, and leaf soil, or in well-drained crannies of the rockery. They may be increased by either division, seeds, or cuttings; the latter, placed under a hand-glass, will root freely. The best time to divide the plants is early spring, or July and August. Seeds should be sown in spring in a cold frame.

=A. balearica= (Balearic).* fl. white, sepals erect; peduncles elongated, one-flowered. March to August. l. very small, ovate, shining, rather fleshy, ciliated. h. 3in. Corsica, 1787. A pretty little creeper, one of the best plants for covering damp borders of the rockwork.

=A. cæspitosa= (tufted). Synonymous with A. verna cæspitosa.

=A. ciliata= (ciliated). fl. white, usually solitary; sepals ovate, acute, five to seven ribbed; petals obovate, twice as long as the sepals. July. l. ovate, or obovate, roughish, with a few hairs, one-nerved, and ciliated. Ireland. h. 6in. A thick, tufted, spreading, procumbent plant.

=A. graminifolia= (grass-leaved).* fl. white; panicle three-forked, hairy, loose; sepals very blunt, much shorter than the obovate petals. June. l. long, awl-shaped, filiform, scabrous on the margins from serratures. Stem erect, simple. h. 6in. to 9in. Caucasus, 1817.

=A. grandiflora= (large-flowered).* fl. white, usually solitary; peduncles very long, pubescent; sepals ovate, awned, three-nerved, smaller than the petals. June. l. awl-shaped, broadish, flat, three-nerved, ciliated, radical ones crowded. h. 3in. to 6in. France, 1783. A. g. biflora is a two-flowered, and A. g. triflora a three-flowered, variety.

=A. laricifolia= (Larch-leaved).* fl. white; sepals bluntish, triple nerved, hairy; petals twice as long as the sepals; stems ascending, one, three, or six flowered, somewhat scabrous; calyx cylindrical. June. l. awl-shaped, denticulately ciliated. h. 6in. Switzerland, 1816.

=A. longifolia= (long-leaved). fl. white; sepals ovate, obtuse, not half the length of the obovate petals; panicle three-forked, glabrous, crowded. June. l. awl-shaped, filiform, serrulated. Stem erect, simple. h. 6in. to 9in. Siberia, 1823.

=A. montana= (mountain). fl. large, white; peduncles terminal, very long, one-flowered; sepals lanceolate, acuminated, much shorter than the corolla. April. l. lanceolate-linear; sterile stems very long, procumbent. h. 3in. France and Spain, 1800.

=A. peploides= (Peplis-like). fl. white; sepals ovate, shorter than the oblong petals. May to July. l. ovate, light green, rather fleshy; branches procumbent, fleshy, deciduous. h. 3in. to 4in. Sea shores of Britain. SYN. Honckenya peploides.

=A. purpurascens= (purplish).* fl. purplish; pedicels tomentose, scarcely exceeding the leaves; sepals lanceolate, smooth, with shrivelled margins, longer than the corolla; branches two to three-flowered. May. l. ovate-lanceolate, acuminated, glabrous. Plant tufted, decumbent. h. 6in. Higher Pyrenees.

=A. rotundifolia= (round-leaved).* fl. white, solitary; petals roundish-ovate, longer than the sepals. July and August. l. about 1/4in. across, roundish, ciliated, on spreading tufted branches. h. 4in. to 6in. Siberia.

=A. tetraquetra= (four-angled). fl. white, somewhat capitate; sepals stiff, acute, keeled, ciliated, almost equal in length to the corolla. August. l. ovate, keeled, recurved, edged, imbricated in four rows. Stem straight, pubescent. h. 3in. to 6in. France, 1731.

=A. verna= (spring-flowering). fl. small, white; sepals ovate, lanceolate, acuminated, with three remote equal ribs, longer than the obovate petals. May. l. awl-shaped, bluntish. Stems panicled, elongated. h. about 3in.

=A. v. cæspitosa= (turfy). A variety having very leafy stems. Calyces and peduncles smoothish. Europe. SYN. A. cæspitosa.

=ARENGA= (name of doubtful origin). SYN. Saguerus. ORD. Palmæ. An extremely useful and interesting palm. The medulla of the trunk is used as sago, and the saccharine juice forms excellent sugar. It requires a strong heat and rich mould. Propagated by seeds only.

=A. saccharifera= (sugar-bearing). fl. striped. June. h. 40ft. Moluccas, 1829.

=AREOLATE.= Divided into distinct angular spaces, or areolæ.

=ARETHUSA= (mythological: named after a nymph of Diana's, who was changed into a fountain; in allusion to the habit of the plants). ORD. Orchideæ. A small genus of very pretty, but rare, terrestrial orchids. They require a moist shady spot with a northern aspect, and thrive best in a compost of well-rotted manure and sphagnum. A mulching in winter, by way of protection, is needed.

=A. bulbosa= (bulbous).* fl. large, bright rose purple, solitary, sweet-scented, terminal; lip dilated, recurved, spreading towards the summit, bearded-crested down the face; scape one-leaved. May. l. linear, nerved. h. 8in. Carolina.

=ARETIA.= See =Androsace=.

=ARGANIA= (from argam, its aboriginal name). ORD. Sapotaceæ. A very fine greenhouse evergreen tree, said by Don to flourish against a south wall, out of doors, with the protection of a mat in severe weather. It will thrive in ordinary garden soil. Increased by layers and cuttings in autumn and spring, the latter requiring a bell glass covering; both operations must be performed in a moderately heated greenhouse.

=A. Sideroxylon= (Iron-wood). fl., corolla greenish yellow, cup-shaped, five-parted, with ovate-lanceolate, sub-emarginate segments; lateral and axillary, scattered, crowded, sessile. fr. dotted with white, size of a plum, full of white, milky juice. July. l. lanceolate, entire, bluntish, glabrous, paler beneath; branches terminated by strong spines. h. 15ft. to 20ft. Morocco, 1711. As the specific name implies, the wood is excessively close and hard, so much so that it sinks in water. SYNS. Elæodendron Argan, Sideroxylon spinosum.

=ARGEMONE= (from argema, cataract of the eye; in allusion to some real or fancied medicinal properties). ORD. Papaveraceæ. Very handsome annuals and perennials, abounding with yellow juice, and covered with stiff prickles. Sepals two to three, concave, mucronate; petals four to eight; peduncles axillary, always erect. Leaves sessile, repand-sinuated, usually spotted with white; recesses spiny-toothed. The species will thrive in almost any garden soil in the open border. Seed may be sown out of doors about the end of March; those of the rarer species on a hotbed, and planted out about the end of June.

=A. albiflora= (white-flowered).* fl. white; petals usually three. July and August. l. sessile, feather-nerved. h. 1ft. Georgia, 1820. Hardy annual.

=A. grandiflora= (great-flowered).* fl. large, panicled, white with yellow anthers. July. l. sinuated, smooth, glaucous, spiny-toothed; nerves unarmed. h. 2ft. to 3ft. Mexico, 1827. This species, when raised from seed, does not flower until October; but when the roots have existed through the winter, the plants produce flowers early in the summer. Hardy perennial. See Fig. 147.

=A. hirsuta= (hairy).* fl. pure white, 3in. to 5in. in diameter. September. l. pinnatifid, bristly. h. 2ft. California, 1879. A very beautiful hardy annual.

=A. mexicana= (Mexican). Devil's Fig. fl. solitary, yellow; petals four to six. June. l. profoundly repand-sinuated, spiny, blotched with white. h. 2ft. Mexico, 1592. Hardy annual.

=A. ochroleuca= (yellowish-white).* fl. pale yellow, solitary; petals six. August. l. profoundly sinuated or pinnatifid, glaucescent nerves with prickly bristles, blotched with white. Stem prickly. Mexico, 1827. Hardy annual.

=ARGENTEUS.= Silvery. A pale colour resembling silver.

=ARGOLASIA.= See =Lanaria=.

=ARGIYREIA= (from argyreios, silvery; in reference to the silvery undersides of the leaves). Silver-weed. ORD. Convolvulaceæ. An elegant genus of greenhouse and stove climbers. Sepals five; corolla campanulate. Shrubs for the most part silvery, but sometimes silky and tomentose. The greater number of the species are robust, extensive twiners or climbers, usually requiring plenty of room to run, before they will flower. A. cuneata, and one or two others, are of dwarf habit, and produce their splendid blossoms in abundance. All the species grow well in light rich soil, or a mixture of peat, loam, and sand. Cuttings root readily if planted in sand, with a hand glass placed over them, in a little bottom heat.

=A. capitata= (headed). fl., corolla 1in. to 2in. long, rose coloured or purple, hairy outside; peduncles exceeding the petioles. July. l. cordate-ovate, acuminated, 2in. to 5in, long, and 1in. to 3in. broad, hairy on both surfaces; hairs glandular at the base. Plant clothed with strigose hairs. Silhet, 1823.

=A. cuneata= (wedge-leaved).* fl., corolla large, of a beautiful deep bright purple; peduncles downy, shorter than the leaves, three to six-flowered. July. l. obovate-cuneate, emarginate, glabrous above, but beset with short, crowded hairs beneath, hardly petiolate. Stem clothed with powdery down at top. h. 2ft. to 5ft. India, 1822.

=A. cymosa= (cyme-flowered).* fl., corolla pale pink, tubularly funnel-shaped, villous outside; peduncles as long or longer than the leaves, leafy at top, and cymosely many-flowered. l. roundish-cordate, or reniformly-cordate, obtuse, terminated by a very short prickle, glabrous on both surfaces, or clothed with pruinose down. Malabar (mountains), 1823.

=A. malabarica= (Malabar). fl. rather small; bottom of the bell deep purple; throat pink, with the edges paler, almost white, and slightly ten-lobed; peduncles as long or longer than the leaves, many-flowered at the apex. June. l. roundish-cordate, acute, glabrous, or furnished with a few scattered hairs on both surfaces. Coromandel, 1823.

=A. pomacea= (Apple-fruited). fl. large, rose coloured; peduncles villous, exceeding the petioles a little, cymose, many-flowered. Berry size of a cherry, yellow. l. ovate-elliptic, obtuse, clothed with cinerous, velvety down on both surfaces, but especially beneath, sometimes sub-emarginate at apex. Mysore, 1818.

=A. speciosa= (showy).* fl., corolla nearly 2in. long, of a deep rose colour; peduncles about equal in length to the petioles, umbellately capitate. July. l. 3in. to 12in. long, and 2in. to 4in. broad, cordate, acute, glabrous above, or rarely villous, thickly nerved beneath, and clothed with silky, silvery down. India, 1818.

=A. splendens= (splendid).* fl., corolla tubularly campanulate, 1-1/2in. long, rather villous outside, pale red; peduncles exceeding the (hoary) petioles, corymbosely many-flowered. November. l. ovate-oblong or ovate-elliptic, entire or pandurately sinuated, sometimes somewhat three-lobed, smooth above, but clothed with silvery, silky down beneath, 6in. long, acuminated. India, 1820.

=ARGYROCHÆTA.= A synonym of =Parthenium= (which see).

=ARGYROXYPHIUM= (from argyros, silver, and xyphion, a corn-flag; in allusion to the leaves). ORD. Compositæ. An ornamental greenhouse perennial herb. Involucre campanulate; receptacle conical; heads pedunculate, racemose, or in thyrsoid panicles. Leaves alternate; lower ones close, elongated, thick, on both sides silver-lined. Stems simple or slightly branched. It thrives well in rich sandy loam and leaf mould. Propagated by seed-heads.

=C. sandwicense= (Sandwich Islands). fl.-heads purplish. l. linear lanceolate, imbricate, clothed, like the stems, with silvery hairs. h. 3ft. Sandwich islands, 1872. SYN. Argyrophyton Douglasii.

=ARIA.= See =Pyrus Aria=.

=ARISÆMA= (from aron, Arum, and sana, a standard; in reference to the close alliance to Arum). ORD. Aroideæ. Small tuberous rooted greenhouse (except where stated otherwise) herbaceous plants. Spathe rolled round the spadix at the base; spadix bearing unisexual flowers below. and rudimentary flowers in the upper part. Leaves peltate, pedate, palmate, or simple. For culture, &c., see =Arum=.

=A. concinna= (neat).* fl., spathe convolute, tubular at the base; upper portion bent over at the mouth, and gradually narrowed into a tail-like appendage about 3in. long; spathe of the female plant longitudinally barred with white and green, the latter colour being replaced with blue-purple in the male. June. l. solitary, sheathing at the base, and made up of ten or twelve lanceolate, entire, light green leaflets, which radiate from the top of the petiole, the latter being 1ft. to 2ft. high. Sikkim, 1871.

=A. curvatum= (curved).* fl. crowning a scape which overtops the foliage; tube of spathe cylindrical, green, obscurely striped with white; the elliptic blade arches forward, green on the inner surface, and brownish-red on the outer; spadix produced into a purplish-red tail, about 1ft. long. April. l. pedate. The large bracts, which sheath the base of the stem, are beautifully marbled with dark olive green, red, and light green. h. 4ft. Himalayas, 1871. SYN. A. helleborifolium.

=A. galeata= (helmeted).* fl., spathe about 4in long; tube and cylindrical side of spathe green, tinted purplish at base, with many longitudinal white lines; inside of the tube purple. July. l. solitary, trifoliate; middle leaflet 6in. long by 3-3/4in. broad; lateral ones 7in. long and nearly 4in. broad. h. 1ft. Himalayas, Sikkim, 1879.

=A. Griffithi= (Griffith's).* fl., spathe large, hood-like, brown-violet, with green veins; spadix brown-violet, and the barren end at the base above the flowers has a disk-like projection, while its free extremity is prolonged into a long thread-like appendage. Spring. l. with bold roundish leaflets. h. 1ft. to 1-1/2ft. Sikkim, 1879. Hardy; very handsome. SYN. A. Hookerianum.

=A. helleborifolium= (Hellebore-leaved). A synonym of A. curvatum.

=A. Hookerianum= (Hooker's). A synonym of A. Griffithi.

=A. nepenthoides= (Nepenthes-like).* fl., spathe above the tubular portion extended into two decided auricles, which serve to distinguish it from other species, ochre, brown, green; spadix yellowish Spring. l. pedate, of five lanceolate or oblanceolate leaflets; central one 6in. long, the others shorter. h. 2ft. Himalayas, 1879.

=A. præcox= (early). A synonym of A. ringens.

=A. ringens= (gaping).* fl., spathe striped green and white, erect and cylindrical below, then arching suddenly over, and again contracting into a rather small deep purple orifice, with broad, reflexed margins; spadix erect, pale yellow-green. Spring. l., leaflets three, ovate-oblong, acuminate, and produced into a filiform point; peduncle short. Japan. Hardy. SYNS. A. præcox and A. Sieboldi.

=A. Sieboldi= (Siebold's). A. synonym of A. ringens.

=A. speciosa= (showy).* fl., spadix deep glossy purple, greenish and white, with a long flexuous prolongation, sometimes nearly 20in. in length; spathe also terminating with a filiform elongation. March. l. solitary, trifoliate; leaflets petioled, dark green, conspicuously edged with blood red; petioles long, mottled with white. h. 2ft. Temperate Himalayas, 1872.

=A. triphylla= (three-leaved).* fl., spathe 4in. to 6in. long, striped with broad lines of purplish-brown, with about 1in. of green in the middle; spadix 3in. long, spotted with brown. June to July. l. on long stout petioles, trifoliate; leaflets entire, equal, acuminated. h. 9in. to 1ft. North America, 1664. This is quite hardy. SYNS. A. zebrina and Arum triphyllum. See Fig. 148.

=A. zebrina= (zebra). A synonym of A. triphylla.

=ARISARUM= (name of Greek origin). ORD. Aroideæ. A small genus of half-hardy herbaceous plants, possessing but little horticultural interest, and allied to Arisæma. Flowers unisexual, spadix having no rudimentary flowers. Leaves on long stalks, heart-shaped or spear-shaped. The only species in cultivation thrives in a sand, loam, and peat compost. Propagated by seeds or divisions of the root in spring.

=A. vulgate= (common). fl., spathe livid purple. May. h. 1ft. South Europe, 1596.

=ARISTATE.= Having a beard or awn, as the glumes of barley.

=ARISTEA= (from arista, a point or beard; in reference to the rigid points of the leaves). ORD. Iridaceæ. A genus of greenhouse herbaceous perennials from the Cape of Good Hope. Flowers blue; perianth rotate, six-parted, twisted after flowering; scape two-edged, rigid, often branched. Leaves narrow, sword-shaped. The species are more interesting than ornamental, and may be grown in a compost of three parts turfy peat, and one of loam. Easily propagated by divisions and seeds. They vary in height from 3in. to 3ft., and flower generally in summer.

=A. capitata= (headed). fl. blue. July. h. 3ft. Cape of Good Hope, 1790.

=A. cyanea= (bright blue). fl. blue. June. h. 6in. Cape of Good Hope, 1759.

=ARISTOLOCHIA= (from aristos, best, and locheia, parturition; in reference to its supposed medicinal character). Birthwort. ORD. Aristolochiaceæ. A very large genus of stove, greenhouse, or hardy, evergreen or deciduous, climbing or erect shrubs. Flowers axillary, clustered, or solitary, pendulous, of most extraordinary forms; perianth tubular, curved, or straight, with an oblique, cordate limb; stamens six, rarely four, or numerous, adhering to the stigma; capsule six-valved. Leaves cordate entire or lobed. Good loam, with a small proportion of decayed manure and a slight addition of sharp sand to secure efficient drainage, is a good compost for the whole. They will thrive when planted out in the conservatory more satisfactorily than elsewhere; for as they usually grow a considerable height before flowering, they require very long trellises in pots, and have to be trained up and down; or, better still, round a pillar of uniform circumference, a pyramid form being useless. The best way is to train them round, close down to the pot, and keep on about 2in. from one turn to the next. Some of the larger sorts will require more room. Cuttings root freely in sand under a bell glass with bottom heat.

=A. anguicida= (snake-killing). fl. white, spotted brown; tube of perianth inflated at base, dilated and oblique at the mouth; peduncles axillary, solitary, one-flowered. December. l. on short petioles, cordate acuminate; stipules cordate-roundish. h. 10ft. New Grenada, 1845. An evergreen stove twiner.

=A. barbata= (bearded). fl. purple, axillary, 2-1/2in. long; perianth straight; limb spreading; lip spathulate, bearded at the end. July. l. cordate, oblong. h. 10ft. Caraccas, 1796. Stove evergreen.

=A. caudata= (tailed).* fl. lurid; perianth cylindrical ventricose, and six-spurred at the base; lip cordate, cuspidate; the cusp twisted, filiform. June. l., lower ones reniform, lobed; upper ones three partite. h. 5ft. Brazil, 1828. Deciduous stove twiner.

=A. ciliosa= (fringed).* fl. purple-yellow; tube of perianth obliquely ventricose at base, stretched out, from the middle to the apex cylindrical, fringed; peduncles one-flowered. September. l. cordate reniform. Plant glabrous. h. 6ft. Brazil, 1829.

=A. Clematitis= (Clematis-like). fl. pale yellow, upright; lip oblong, shortly acuminate. July. l. cordate. Stem erect. h. 2ft. A hardy herbaceous perennial, naturalised here and there in Britain.

=A. clypeata= (shielded). fl. axillary; tube yellowish, cylindrical; limb elliptic, white, blotched with purple, long and large, funnel-shaped. l. subcordate-ovate, acuminate. Columbia, 1871.

=A. cordiflora= (cordate-flowered). fl. axillary, very large, with broad cordiform limb, creamy yellow, with blotchy purple veining. May. l. cordate acuminate. h. 30ft. Mexico, 1860.

=A. deltoidea variegata= (deltoid variegated variety). l. variegated with white. h. 6ft. Columbia, 1870.

=A. Duchartrei= (Duchartre's).* fl. racemose; tube brown; limb cream colour, with purple blotches. January. l. reniform-cordate, acuminate. Upper Amazons, 1868. h. 5ft. This stove species flowers from the old wood. SYN. A. Ruiziana.

=A. floribunda= (free-flowering).* fl. numerous; limb purplish-red, with yellow veins, centre yellow. July. l. cordate ovate, acuminate. h. 10ft. Brazil, 1868. Stove species.

=A. galeata= (helmeted). fl. creamy, with reticulated veins. August. l. cordate, with broad open sinus. h. 20ft. New Grenada, 1873.

=A. gigas= (giant). fl. purple; perianth large, cordate ribbed outside, reticulated, downy; tube inflated, contracted in the middle; limb large, cordate ovate, with a long tail. June. l. downy, cordate, acuminate; peduncles solitary, bracteate. h. 10ft. Guatemala, 1841.

=A. Goldieana= (Goldie's).* fl. greenish outside, deep yellow with chocolate veins inside, bent into two unequal portions, the lower portion surmounting the ovary about 8in. in length, somewhat cylindrical, terminating in a club-shaped curved knob; the upper portion, commencing from this knob, is about a foot long, funnel-shaped, ribbed, dilated above into a somewhat three-lobed limb. Stamens twenty-four--a very unusual number in the whole family. The enormous flowers are 26in. long by 11in. in diameter. July. l. ovate, or triangular-cordate, acuminated. Old Calabar River, 1867. This noble climber should be repotted in fresh soil in February or March. But little water will be necessary until the young shoots have made about 6in. of growth; the quantity should then be increased with moderation until early in September, when the old stem dies down within a few inches of the surface of the pot--at this period, and during winter, water must be entirely withheld. This species blooms freely in a temperature of 65deg. to 70deg.

=A. indica= (Indian). fl. purple; perianth erect; peduncle many-flowered. July. l. elliptical, blunt, somewhat emarginate, slightly cordate. h. 10ft. India, 1780. Stove evergreen.

=A. labiosa= (great-lipped).* fl. greenish; perianth incurved at base, saccate, two-lipped in the middle. July. l. reniform, roundish cordate, amplexicaul. h. 20ft. Brazil, 1821. Stove evergreen.

=A. leuconeura= (white-veined). fl. purple brown. September. l. cordate, acuminate. h. 12ft. Magdalena, 1858. Stove species.

=A. odoratissima= (sweetest-scented).* fl. purple, sweet-scented; peduncles one-flowered, longer than the leaf; lip cordate lanceolate, longer than the perianth. July. l. cordate, ovate, evergreen. Stem twining. h. 10ft. Jamaica, 1737. Stove evergreen.

=A. ornithocephala= (bird's-head).* fl. purple, very large, and extremely singular. To render any description at all lucid, this species may be said to have the head of a hawk and the beak of a heron, with the wattles of a Spanish fowl, which, however, are grey, netted with brown; head of the same colour, veined; and the beak grey. l. between cordate and reniform, obtuse. October. h. 20ft. Brazil, 1838. Stove species.

=A. ringens= (gaping).* fl. extremely grotesque, 7in. to 10in. long, pale green, marbled and reticulated with black purple. The perianth has an obovoid ventricose sac, or cup, 2-1/2in. long, which is woolly inside; tube ascending obliquely from the sac, terete, dividing into two very long lips, the upper of which (lower as the flower hangs) is oblong-lanceolate, recurved, and hairy inside below the middle, while the lower one is shorter, with recurved margins, and expanding into an orbicular or almost reniform limb. Unlike many other species, the flowers are produced on the young shoots. July. l. bright green, glabrous, roundish-reniform. h. 20ft. Brazil, 1820. Stove evergreen.

=A. Ruiziana= (Ruiz's). A synonym of A. Duchartrei.

=A. saccata= (pouch-flowered). fl. purplish-red, forming a large pouch; throat circular, vertical. September. l. 12in. to 15in. long, and 4in. broad, scattered, ovate-cordate, narrowed at apex, slightly waved and sinuated, entire, more silky beneath than above. h. 20ft. Sylhet, 1829. Stove evergreen.

=A. sempervirens= (evergreen). fl. purple; perianth incurved. May. l. cordate, oblong, acuminate. Stem prostrate, flexuous, somewhat climbing. h. 4ft. Candia, 1727. Greenhouse species.

=A. Sipho= (tube-bearing).* fl. yellowish-brown; corolla ascending; limb in three equal portions, not expanding, flat, brown; bracts of the peduncle large, ovate. May and June. l. cordate, acute. Stem twining. h. 15ft. to 30ft. North America, 1763. This hardy, climbing, deciduous shrub grows freely in a deep, free, rather dry soil. See Fig. 149.

=A. Thwaitesii= (Thwaites'). fl. yellow. March. h. 3ft. Old Calabar, 1854. Stove species.

=A. tomentosa= (tomentose).* fl. purple; perianth with its tube twisted back, and much more deeply divided than in A. Sipho, expanding, flat, and yellow, with the mouth of the tube of a deep purple; peduncle solitary, without a bract. July. l. cordate, downy beneath. h. 20ft. North America, 1799. Hardy.

=A. tricandata= (three-tailed).* fl. dark purple-brown, solitary, split into three subulate tails. August. l. oblong acuminate, rugose, 5in. to 8in. long. Mexico, 1866. A curious, but pretty, stove shrub.

=A. trilobata= (three-lobed). fl. purple; perianth cylindrical, broken saccate at base; lip cordate cuspidate. June. l. three-lobed. Stem twining. h. 8ft. South America, 1775. Stove evergreen.

=A. ungulifolia= (claw-leaved). fl. racemose; perianth brownish-purple, stipitate at base, above which it is swollen out in a globose or oblong form, with two thickened projections near the end; upper end of tube contracted, somewhat curved, terminating in a two-lipped limb, one lip large, ovate, the other minute. June. l. 6in. to 7in. long, cordate, and pedately five-nerved at the base, three-lobed below the middle, with broad sinuses, the two lateral lobes arcuate, and blunt at the apex. Labuan, 1880. Stove species.

=ARISTOLOCHIACEÆ.= An order of very curious plants, with singularly inflated flowers, consisting of a calyx only, of a dull, dingy colour. It is popularly known as the Birthwort family, and has an English representative in Aristolochia clematitis.

=ARISTOTELIA= (said to be named in honour of Aristotle, the Greek philosopher). ORD. Tiliaceæ. A hardy evergreen shrub. Calyx campanulate; petals five, inserted in the base of the calyx, and alternating with its lobes. Easily grown, in ordinary garden soil, in the shrubbery. Propagated by ripened cuttings, which root freely if placed under a hand glass; or by layers.

=A. Macqui= (Macqui's).* fl. small, greenish, axillary. May. l. nearly opposite, stalked, oblong, acute, smooth, shining, dentate, permanent. h. 6ft. Chili, 1733. A shrub esteemed for its handsome foliage. The berries are about the size of a pea, very dark purple, at length becoming black. The variegated form is not so hardy as the type, but much more ornamental.

=ARMENIACA= (from Armenia, the native country of the Apricot). Apricot. ORD. Rosaceæ. TRIBE Drupaceæ. Small, hardy, deciduous trees. Flowers appearing before the leaves from scaly buds, solitary, or few together, almost sessile. Leaves, when young, convolute. Drupe ovate-globose, fleshy, covered with velvety skin, containing a nut, or stone, which is acute at one end and blunt at the other, with a furrow on both sides; the rest smooth, not wrinkled. For culture, &c., see =Apricot= and =Prunus=.

=A. brigantiaca= (Brigancon).* fl. white or pink, glomerate, almost sessile. March. l. somewhat cordate, acuminated, sharply toothed; the teeth numerous, and lapping over each other. h. 6ft. to 8ft. South Europe, 1819.

=A. dasycarpa= (thick-fruited).* fl. white, pedicellate; pedicels filiform. March. l. ovate, acuminate, serrated; petioles glandular. h. 10ft. to 15ft. China, 1800.

=A. sibirica= (Siberian). fl. rose-coloured. April. l. ovate, acuminate; petioles glandless. h. 8ft. to 20ft. Dahuria, 1788.

=A. vulgaris= (common).* Common Apricot. fl. pinkish-white, sessile. February. l. ovate, or cordate, glabrous, glandularly serrated. h. 15ft. Levant, 1548. Of this species numerous varieties, differing in the foliar outline, &c., are sometimes met with. See =Apricot=.

=ARMERIA.= (from Flos Armeriæ, Latin name for the flowers of a species of Pink). Thrift; Sea Pink. ORD. Plumbagineæ. A very interesting and pretty group of hardy alpine tufted perennials. Flowers pedicellate, collected in dense solitary heads; involucre scarious, sheathing the scape and turned downwards; petals cohering at the base, persistent; flower scapes leafless. Leaves linear, radical. As the majority of the species differ in mere technical details, we have given a representative group only. They are easily cultivated in a sandy loam and leaf soil, and are increased by seeds and division, separate pieces being planted as cuttings under hand glasses; or the rarer kinds should be potted and placed in a frame. The seed should be sown in spring, in pots of sandy soil, and placed in a cold frame. Although best grown as rock plants, most of them do well in pots and borders. A. vulgaris makes one of the best of edging plants.

=A. cephalotes= (round-headed).* fl. deep rose or crimson, in a large roundish head on erect stalk. Autumn. l. broadly lanceolate, glabrous, acute; petioles channelled, sheathing at the base. h. 12in. to 18in. South Europe, 1800. This is perhaps the finest species, and is best raised from an annual sowing of seed, as it is somewhat difficult to increase by divisions. SYNS. A. formosa, A. latifolia, A. mauritanica, and A. pseudo-armeria.

=A. dianthoides= (Pink-like).* fl. light pink, in close heads about 6in. high. May and June. l. spreading, flattened, nerved, slightly downy. South Europe, 1810.

=A. formosa= (handsome). Synonymous with A. cephalotes.

=A. juncea= (rush-like).* fl. rose pink, in small heads about 3in. high. June. l. small, erect, roundish, pointed, deep green. South Europe. A very pretty little alpine species.

=A. juniperifolia= (Juniper-leaved).* fl. deep rose, in small densely packed heads. May and June. l. short, stiff, erect, Juniper-like. h. 6in., with a dense tufted habit. Spain, 1818. Plant in a warm well-drained portion of the rockery in very sandy soil, with some nodules of sandstone intermixed.

=A. latifolia= (broad-leaved). Synonymous with A. cephalotes.

=A. leucantha= (white-flowered). A white-flowered variety of A. plantaginea.

=A. maritima= (sea). Synonymous with A. vulgaris.

=A. mauritanica= (Mediterranean). Synonymous with A. cephalotes.

=A. plantaginea= (Plantain-leaved).* fl. bright rose; scapes taller than in A. vulgaris. l. broader, three to five-nerved, and with a stouter growing habit than the common species. h. 1ft. South Europe, 1818. A very pretty species. SYNS. A. leucantha, which is frequently called A. p. alba, and A. scorzoneræfolia.

=A. pseudo-armeria= (false-Armeria). Synonymous with A. cephalotes.

=A. scorzoneræfolia= (Scorzonera-leaved). Synonymous with A. plantaginea.

=A. setacea= (bristly).* fl. light rose, in small heads about 2in. high, very freely produced from the axils of the leaves. April to June. l. in dense rosettes, erect, or nearly so, narrow, acute, the tufts having a bristly appearance. h. 3in. South Europe. Plant in a semi-perpendicular cranny of the rockery, with a sunny position.

=A. vulgaris= (common).* Common Thrift; Sea Pink. fl. pink, rosy red, lilac, or white (the latter known as A. v. alba), collected into a rounded head on the top of the simple scape. June to August. l. all radical, numerous, linear, usually one-nerved, more or less pubescent. h. 6in. to 12in. Britain, on the sea coasts. A. v. alpina is a dwarf alpine form of this species. The white-flowered variety is very handsome. A. v. Laucheana is also a pretty form, with deep pink flowers in dense heads about 6in. high, and a very tufted habit. Crimson Gem, of garden origin, is stronger growing, with stems about 9in. high, carrying heads of bright crimson pink flowers, also of tufted habit. SYNS. A. maritima, Statice Armeria.

=ARNEBIA= (its Arabian name). ORD. Boraginaceæ. Handsome hardy herbaceous perennials or annuals, allied to Lithospermum. Cuttings should be removed with a heel in autumn, dibbled in sandy soil in small pots, and placed in a cool house, where they will ultimately, though slowly, root; they should then be gradually hardened off, and finally planted out. A. echioides is also easily increased by making cuttings of the strong roots, which should be dibbled in pots of sandy soil, and placed in gentle heat; it is also raised from seed.

=A. echioides= (Echium-like).* fl. bright primrose yellow, with a purplish spot in the sinuses between the lobes of the corolla, which gradually disappears in a few days; spikes terminal, large, solitary, secund. May. l. sessile, alternate; margins-—as well as the stems-—ciliated. h. 9in. to 12in. Armenia. One of the showiest of hardy perennials for the border or rockery.

=A. Griffithii= (Griffith's). This differs from above in having narrower leaves, rather smaller flowers, which are of a more decided yellow, a differently shaped calyx, and a longer corolla. h. 9in. North-west India. Equally desirable, were it a perennial; but, being an annual, it must be constantly raised from seed.

=ARNICA= (from arnakis, lambskin; in reference to the texture of the leaves). ORD. Compositæ. Hardy, dwarf, herbaceous perennials, allied to Senecio. They thrive best in loam, peat, and sand; the plants are best divided in spring. Seeds should be procured when possible, and sown in a cold frame, in spring. The only species worth growing are described below.

=A. Aronicum.= Synonymous of A. scorpioides.

=A. Chamissonis= (Chamisso's).* fl.-heads yellow, 1-1/2in. to 2in. across, arranged in a corymb. July to September. l. oblong-lanceolate, acuminate or acute, tomentose, tapering to the base. h. 1ft. to 2ft. North America. A rather scarce, showy species.

=A. Clusii= (Clusius's). fl.-heads yellow, solitary, terminal; stalks long, thickened towards the top, and covered with long hairs. Summer. l. soft, radical ones entire, or nearly so, oblong, obtuse, attenuated into the petiole; cauline ones sessile, half stem-clasping, lanceolate, toothed in the lower part. h. 1ft. Switzerland, 1819. SYN. Doronicum Clusii.

=A. foliosa= (leafy).* fl.-heads pale yellow, about 1in. across, from three to seven in a corymb. August. l. lanceolate, stalked, acute, denticulate, smooth. h. 1ft. to 2ft. Stems springing from slender rhizome-like shoots. United States. Closely allied to A. montana. It requires a damp situation.

=A. montana= (mountain).* Mountain Tobacco. fl.-heads yellow, three or four together, about 2in. in diameter; ray florets numerous. July. l. radical, except a few on the scape, oblong-lanceo-late, entire, smooth. Habit tufted. h. 1ft. Europe. 1731. A very handsome but rare plant; excellent for a rockery. It is slowly increased. See Fig. 150.

=A. scorpioides= (scorpion-like).* fl.-heads yellow, large, solitary; scape one to three-flowered. Summer. l. pale green, denticulated; radical ones on long petioles, broadly ovate; the lower stem leaves shortly stalked, amplexicaul; the upper ones sessile. h. 6in. to 12in. South Europe, 1710. Border. SYNS. A. Aronicum, Aronicum scorpioides.

=ARNOPOGON.= See =Urospermum=.

=AROIDEÆ.= See =Araceæ=.

=ARONIA.= See =Cratægus Aronia= and =Pyrus=.

=ARONICUM.= See =Arnica scorpioides= and =Doronicum=.

=ARPOPHYLLUM= (from arpe, a scimitar, and phyllon, a leaf; the leaf is sword-shaped). ORD. Orchideæ. Distinct evergreen epiphytes. There are about six species known, and the genus belongs to the Epidendreæ division of orchidaceous plants; their general characters are: Flowers small, numerous, in closely packed cylindrical spikes; anther-bed broad, shorter than the broad extension of the upper edge of the stigma; pollinia eight. Stems rather long, with white sheaths. They thrive well in fibrous peat, one-third turfy loam, freely interspersed with lumps of fresh charcoal and an abundance of crocks. When growing, a liberal supply of water at the roots is essential, as is also a situation near the light, where they will blossom much more profusely than if in any way shaded. The flowers last in perfection about four weeks.

=A. cardinale= (cardinal). fl., sepals and petals light rose; lip deep red, on upright spikes about 1ft. high. Summer. New Grenada.

=A. giganteum= (gigantic).* fl. dark purple and rose, densely and symmetrically arranged on the cylindrical spikes, which are from 12in. to 14in. long. April and May. l. dark green, about 2ft. long, borne on slender pseudo-bulbs. Mexico.

=A. spicatum= (spike-flowered).* fl. dark red, on an upright spike about 1ft. long. During winter. Guatemala, 1839.

=ARRACACHA= (its Spanish name in South America). ORD. Umbelliferæ. A half-hardy tuberous perennial, highly esteemed as an esculent in South America, where it yields a food, which is prepared in the same manner as potatoes, and is said to be grateful to the palate and extremely easy of digestion. It thrives best in rich loam, and is increased by divisions of the roots.

=A. esculenta= (edible). fl. white; umbels opposite the leaves or terminal; involucre wanting. July. l. pinnate; leaflets broadly ovate, acuminated, deeply pinnatifid, profoundly serrated; the two lower leaflets petiolate, sub-ternate. h. 1ft. to 2ft. Mountainous districts of Northern South America, 1823. SYN. Conium Arracacha.

=ARRHOSTOXYLUM.= Included under =Ruellia= (which see).

=ARROW ARUM.= See =Peltandra virginica=.

=ARROWGRASS.= See =Triglochin=.

=ARROW-HEAD.= See =Sagittaria=.

=ARROWROOT.= See =Maranta=.

=ARTABOTRYS= (from artao, to suspend or support, and botrys, grapes; in reference to the way the fruit is supported by the curious tendril). ORD. Anonaceæ. A handsome stove evergreen shrub, thriving in a good sandy loam and peat, to which a little rotten dung may be added. Propagated by cuttings made of ripened wood, insert in sand under a bell glass, with bottom heat, in early spring. Seed, when procurable, should be sown as soon after receipt as possible.

=A. odoratissimus= (sweetest-scented).* fl. reddish brown, extremely fragrant; peduncles opposite the leaves, hooked beneath the middle. June and July. l. oblong-lanceolate, acuminated, smooth, shining. h. 6ft. Malayan Islands, 1758. In Java, the leaves are held to be invaluable as a preventive of cholera.

=ARTANEMA= (from artao, to support, and nema, a filament; in reference to a tooth-like process growing on the longer filaments). ORD. Scrophularineæ. An interesting and handsome greenhouse evergreen shrub, allied to Torenia. Flowers disposed in terminal racemes, and on short pedicels. Leaves opposite, sub-serrated. It may be treated as hardy during summer, for which purpose seeds should be sown in spring; but it requires the protection of a greenhouse during winter. Artanema grows freely in light rich soil, and is readily increased by cuttings and seeds.

=A. fimbriatum= (fringed). fl., corolla blue, large, tubularly funnel-shaped, clothed with minute glandular pubescence outside; lobes unequally serrated; racemes terminal, four to sixteen-flowered. June, November. l. lanceolate, acute, serrated, rough to the touch from numerous elevated dots. Stem smooth, glossy. h. 2ft. to 3ft. New Holland (on the banks of the Brisbane River at Moreton Bay), 1830.

=ARTANTHE.= See =Piper=.

=ARTEMISIA= (from Artemis, one of the names of Diana). Mugwort; Southernwood; Wormwood. ORD. Compositæ. A very large genus of mostly hardy herbaceous perennials, few of which, comparatively speaking, are worth growing. Flower-heads disposed in spikes, or racemes, and these are usually arranged in panicles; pappus none; involucre few-flowered, ovate or rounded, imbricated; florets of the disk all tubular; of the ray, if any, slender, awl-shaped. Leaves alternate, variously lobed. All the species are of the easiest possible culture in any dry soil. The shrubby kinds are best propagated by cuttings; the herbaceous ones, by dividing at the root; and the annuals, by seeds.

=A. Abrotanum= (aromatic herb).* Southernwood. fl.-heads yellowish. August to October. l., lower ones bipinnate; upper ones pinnate, with the segments hair-like. Stem straight. h. 2ft. to 4ft. Europe, 1548. A deciduous shrub; well known for its fragrance.

=A. A. humile= (low). A low spreading variety. h. 1-1/2ft.

=A. A. tobolskianum= (Tobolskian). A much more vigorous growing variety than the last, and larger in all its parts than the type.

=A. alpina= (alpine).* fl.-heads yellow, solitary, on long slender stalks; scales of involucre lanceolate. Summer. l. pinnate, covered with whitish silky hairs; lobes linear, entire. h. 6in. to 10in. Caucasus, 1804. Dwarf, with a very tufted habit.

=A. anethifolia= (Anethum-leaved). fl.-heads yellowish-green, small; panicle very large, densely packed, nearly 2ft. long. Autumn. l. chiefly cauline, much divided into thread-like segments, greyish-green. Stem shrubby at the base, nearly glabrous, branching at the top. h. 3ft. to 4ft. Siberia, 1816.

=A. argentea= (silvery).* fl.-heads pale yellow, roundish, closely packed. July. l. ovate-oblong, very freely divided, densely clothed with soft silvery hairs. h. 1-1/2ft. Madeira, 1777. A very pretty species, requiring a warm sunny position on the rockery.

=A. cana= (hoary).* fl.-heads yellow, small, uninteresting, ovate, in a close spiky panicle. August. l. silky, hoary; lower ones wedge-shaped, sharply three-cleft; cauline ones linear-lanceolate, three-nerved. Stem ascending; branches erect. h. 2ft. to 3ft. North America, 1800. This is a very distinct species, and its silvery leaves and stems render it well worthy of cultivation.

=A. cœrulescens= (bluish).* fl.-heads bluish, erect, cylindrical. August. l. hoary, most of them lanceolate, entire, tapering at the base; lower ones variously divided. h. 2ft. South Europe. An ornamental evergreen shrub.

=A. Dracunculus.=* Tarragon. fl.-heads whitish green; racemes panicled; heads sub-globose. July. l., radical ones three-fid; cauline ones sessile, linear or linear-oblong, acute, entire, toothed. h. 2ft. South Europe, 1548. See =Tarragon=.

=A. frigida= (frigid). fl.-heads yellow, uninteresting, small, roundish, racemosely panicled. August. l. pinnate; segments narrow, silvery. h. 1ft. Siberia, 1826. A pretty creeping, herbaceous plant.

=A. maritima= (maritime). fl.-heads brown; racemes oblong, erect or drooping. August and September. l. downy, bipinnatifid, oblong; segments linear. Britain. A much branched, erect, or decumbent plant, excellent for rough rockwork or very dry banks, etc.

=A. Mutellina= (Mutellina).* fl.-heads yellowish-green; lower ones stalked, upper ones sessile. July. l. all palmate, multifid, white. Stem quite simple. h. 6in. European Alps, 1815.

=A. pontica= (Pontine). fl.-heads yellow, roundish, stalked, nodding. September. l. downy beneath; cauline ones bipinnate; leaflets linear. h. 3ft. Austria, 1570.

=A. rupestris= (rock). fl.-heads brown, globose, stalked, nodding. August. l. sub-pubescent; cauline ones pinnatifid; leaflets linear, acute. h. 6in. Norway, &c., 1748.

=A. scoparia= (twiggy-branched). fl.-heads small, whitish; panicle broad, densely packed, about 1-1/2ft. long. Autumn. l. much divided; segments hair-like; lower branches very slender. h. 3ft. to 5ft. East Europe.

=A. spicata= (spicate). fl.-heads brown, spicate. June and July. l. hoary; radical ones palmate multifid; cauline ones pinnatifid; upper linear, entire, blunt. Stem quite simple. h. 1ft. Switzerland, 1790.

=A. Stelleriana= (Steller's).* fl.-heads yellow, uninteresting, round, somewhat erect. Summer. l., lower ones spathulate-incised; upper ones obtusely lobed; end lobes often confluent, about 2in. long, silvery white. h. 1ft. to 2ft. Siberia.

=A. tanacetifolia= (Tanacetum-leaved). fl.-heads brownish; racemes simple, terminal. Summer. l. bipinnate; lobes linear sub-lanceolate, entire, acuminated, rather downy. Stem sometimes branching at the base, herbaceous. h. 1-1/2ft. Siberia, 1768.

=A. vulgaris= (common).* Mugwort. fl.-heads yellow, somewhat racemed, ovate. August. l. pinnatifid; segments white, and downy beneath. Stems 3ft. to 4ft. high, furrowed. Britain. The variegated form of this species exhibits a very pleasing contrast. There is also a pretty variety with golden leaves.

=ARTHROPHYLLUM MADAGASCARIENSE.= See =Phyllarthron Bojeriana=.

=ARTHROPODIUM= (from arthron, a joint, and pous, a foot; the footstalks of the flowers being jointed). ORD. Liliaceæ. Very pretty greenhouse herbaceous perennials, allied to Anthericum. Flowers purplish or white, in loose racemes. Leaves grass-like, radical. They thrive well in a compost of sandy loam and peat, and may be increased freely by divisions or seeds.

=A. cirratum= (curled). fl. white; racemes divided; bracteas leafy. May. l. lanceolate, ensiform, spreading, 1ft. long. h. 3ft. New Zealand, 1821.

=A. fimbriatum= (fringed). fl. white. July. h. 1-1/2ft. New Holland, 1822.

=A. neo-caledonicum= (New Caledonian).* fl. small, white, on a much-branched, many-flowered panicle. May. l. tufted, linear-lanceolate, barred with black linear markings near the base. h. 1-1/2ft. New Caledonia, 1877.

=A. paniculatum= (panicled).* fl. white; racemes divided; pedicels clustered; inner sepals crenulate. May. l. narrowly lanceolate. h. 3ft. New South Wales, 1800. A. minus is a small form of this species.

=A. pendulum= (pendulous).* fl. white, clustered in threes, pendulous. June to August. l. linear, keeled, shorter than the branched scape. h. 1-1/2ft. New Holland, 1822.

=ARTHROPTERIS.= See =Nephrodium= and =Nephrolepis=.

=ARTHROSTEMMA= (from arthron, a joint, and stemon, a stamen; in reference to the stamens or connectives being jointed). ORD. Melastomaceæ. Beautiful stove or greenhouse evergreen shrubs. Tube of calyx turbinate or campanulate, usually clothed with bristles, pili, or scales; lobes four, lanceolate, permanent, without any appendages between them; petals four. A mixture of loam, peat, and sand, suits them best; and cuttings of small firm side shoots will root, in April or August, under a hand glass in sandy soil. Only three or four out of the half-dozen species belonging to this genus have been as yet introduced.

=A. fragile= (brittle). fl. rosy; cymes loose, terminal, few-flowered; calyx glandular. July. l. ovate-cordate, acute, five-nerved, serrated; branches tetragonal, beset with glandular hairs. h. 3ft. Mexico, 1846. Stove species.

=A. nitida= (glossy-leaved). fl. lilac; peduncles axillary towards the top of the branches, three-flowered, longer than the petioles. June. l. ovate, acute, serrulated, glabrous on both surfaces, shining above, but glandularly hispid on the nerves beneath. Stems shrubby, erect, and are, as well as the branches, tetragonally winged, beset with coloured hairs. h. 2ft. to 3ft. Buenos Ayres, 1829 greenhouse species.

=A. versicolor= (changeable-flowered). fl., petals obovate, ciliated, at first white, but at length becoming reddish, terminal, solitary. September. l. petiolate, ovate, serrulated, five-nerved, discoloured beneath. Plant shrubby; hairy. h. 1ft. Brazil (on the sea shore), 1825. Stove species.

=ARTHROTAXIS.= See =Athrotaxis=.

=ARTICHOKE, GLOBE.= (Cynara Scolymus, a cultivated form of C. Cardunculus). As a vegetable, the Globe Artichoke is cultivated for the use of the immature flower-heads, and is highly esteemed. A good open position, free from overhanging trees, is best suited for its culture generally, but, by planting successional suckers in different aspects, the season may be considerably prolonged. The soil must be of good depth, rich, and not too heavy. It may be greatly improved for Artichoke culture by the addition of sea-weeds or salt applied as manure.

Preparation of Soil. Trench the ground two spits deep if possible, mixing a liberal dressing of well-rotted manure in autumn, and ridge up for the winter, to sweeten. Crude manure full of straw, leaves, and sticks, often induce fungoid growths, and are most injurious to the crowns of the plants. Clay or stiff loam is about the worst soil on which to attempt the culture of this vegetable; this drawback may, however, to some extent be alleviated by the addition and thorough amalgamation of a light free soil or liberal dressings of sandy road drifts, or similar materials. An ill-drained soil is also fatal to good results. During hot, dry weather, the plants are greatly benefited by copious applications of clear water and dilute liquid manure; and this must be especially attended to on such soils as are liable to burn or dry up in summer.

Cultivation. When the beds have been properly prepared, the plants should be put in them in April or May. Place three together in rows between 3ft. and 4ft. apart, and about 3ft. from plant to plant. Water-in carefully to settle the soil around the roots, and apply a mulching of half-decayed manure, to prevent an undue evaporation of moisture. During hot, dry weather, give liberal supplies of water, and the plants will become established as fine stools the first season. A few heads will probably be produced the first year; but there will not be much of a crop until the second season, when five or six good heads will be got from each plant, and for three or four years the produce will be large if the beds are properly attended to; after which time it will become desirable to make up new plantations. In October or November, it will be necessary to apply a good mulching of straw or fern to the beds, to protect the plants from frost. In April, all this litter should be cleaned off, a dressing of rotten manure applied, and the beds forked over and kept clean for the rest of the season, treating as before described. Great care must be taken to remove the heads as soon as they are in a fit state; and, when the whole of them are removed from the stems, cut the latter out as low as possible. Globe Artichokes will keep for some considerable time if laid in a cool place, although they will deteriorate in quality. These plants may be used in the background of flower borders in the kitchen garden, their handsome foliage being peculiarly well adapted for such purposes, whilst their economical value is also secured. See Fig. 151. Where there is plenty of room in light, warm sheds, orchard houses, or other places where frost can be kept out, some stools can be taken up with the root intact in the early part of November, placed in boxes of soil, and well watered-in. When drained, the boxes may be put in any of those positions for their winter quarters, and, if kept moist, will develop much earlier than the outdoor crops, provided they are planted out early in April on a warm border, and protected with mats when the weather is cold. Propagation may be effected by seeds, or by suckers from the old stools, the latter being the better plan. In the former case, sow the seeds in March, on a gentle hotbed, and prick the seedlings off singly, when large enough, into small pots. Harden off by the last week in May, and plant out in threes as previously recommended, protecting the plants from late frosts. During the growing season, give an abundance of water and liquid manure mulching, to prevent undue evaporation. In November, well cover with dry litter which will not heat; and, in hard frosts, or heavy snow, throw a few mats over the beds, uncovering at the same time as recommended above for the older plants. To propagate by rooted offsets or suckers, take up and divide the stools, when they have made a fair amount of growth in April or early in May, separating the suckers with as many roots and as much soil adhering to them as possible. The old woody portions are of little use, but they may be replanted to give off a fresh supply of suckers for the next year, if required. Propagation by suckers, if they are to be obtained, has many advantages; but care must be taken, in removing them from old plants, that some roots are attached, or growth will be uncertain. Seeds generally produce a large percentage of plants that are useless, and this is not found out until the flower-heads appear. On the other hand, suckers reproduce the parent plant, and if these are previously selected, the superior stock is thereby perpetuated.

Sorts. The Green and Purple are the best for ordinary purposes; and of these preference should be given to the former. See also =Cynara=.

=ARTICHOKE, JERUSALEM= (Helianthus tuberosus). A hardy tuberous-rooted herbaceous perennial, native of Brazil. The roots are used as a vegetable principally during the winter, sometimes as a dish, but more generally for flavouring purposes. Plants will grow in almost any position, but the best results and largest tubers are obtained where they receive plenty of room and liberal treatment. Their culture has been recommended as a substitute for the potato, but they are not likely to take the place of this vegetable, the flavour being disliked by many persons. A few are, however, generally acceptable.

Cultivation. To ensure the most successful results, trench over a piece of ground in autumn, and give a light dressing of manure. Fork over in March; at the same time plant good-shaped tubers (see Fig. 152) in rows about 3ft. apart, and allow from 18in. to 2ft. between the tubers in the rows. Keep clear of weeds; and, as soon as the foliage is yellow, in the latter part of the autumn, the roots will be fit for use. The best plan with this crop is to leave it in the ground till wanted, or till the end of February, and then to take up every tuber, replanting those which are wanted for stock, and storing the others away in a cold dry place. When they commence growth, they turn black, and are of little use for cooking, save for flavouring soups. This vegetable has of late years grown into favour as a marketable crop, and the demand seems to be increasing. Considering its very easy culture, it is fairly remunerative. See also =Helianthus=.

=ARTICULATE, ARTICULATED.= Jointed; having joints.

=ARTILLERY PLANT.= See =Pilea microphylla=.

=ARTOCARPEÆ.= A tribe of the large order Urticaceæ.

=ARTOCARPUS= (from artos, bread, and carpos, fruit; the fruit, when baked, resembling bread). Bread Fruit. SYNS. Polyphema, Rademachia, Rima. ORD. Urticaceæ. TRIBE Artocarpeæ. Included in this most remarkable tribe, in addition to the Bread Fruit Tree, is the virulent poisonous Antiaris toxicaria, and the economic Cow Tree (Brosimum Galactodendron), of Caraccas. A genus of stove evergreen trees, requiring a high and very moist atmosphere, a copious supply of water, perfect drainage, and a compost of two parts rich loam and one of leaf mould, with the addition of a little silver sand. Under all conditions, this genus is difficult to propagate; the young and slender lateral growths are adapted for cuttings; and suckers may be utilised when procurable, which is very rare.

=A. Cannoni= (Cannon's).* l. alternate, petiolate; petiole and midrib bright red; upper surface glossy, of a rich, full bronzy crimson hue, beautifully tinted with purple; under surface bright vinous red. The leaves vary much in form; some are simple and cordate at the base, with the apex irregularly lobate; some have the apex regularly three-lobed, with short, entire lobes; and others, again, are deep three-lobed, being divided nearly to the base, the segments, of which the centre one is largest, being slightly sinuate-lobed. h. 7ft. Society Islands, 1877. This is a most distinct and handsome ornamental-leaved plant.

=A. incisa= (incised).* True Bread Fruit. l. from 2ft. to 3ft. long, deeply lobed or incised, deep green on the upper side, paler below. h. 50ft. South Sea Islands, 1793. This is a noble tree when full grown, and forms a most distinct and beautiful stove plant. The extraordinary fruit is produced from the axils of the leaves in large globular heads, and is highly valued as an article of food in its native country.

=A. integrifolia= (entire-leaved). l. oblong, undivided, sinuated, scabrous, downy beneath. h. 30ft. India, 1778.

=A. laciniata metallica= (laciniate, metallic). l. bronzy above, reddish purple beneath. Polynesia.

=ARUM= (formerly aron, and probably of Egyptian extraction). ORD. Aroideæ. A large genus of ornamental or curious, hardy, greenhouse or stove perennials, with thick rhizomes and pedate or hastate leaves. Spathe large, convolute; spadix naked and club-shaped at the top. They are all of easy culture, and the indoor species will thrive with such treatment as is given to Alocasias, Caladiums, &c. Rich soil is one of the first conditions of success. Like most plants grown for the beauty of their foliage, rapid and free growth is necessary. A compost of good rich loam, with a third of sweet manure, thoroughly rotted, or leaf mould, with some sharp sand, is very suitable. Plenty of moisture is necessary during the growing season, after which the tender kinds should be kept moderately dry, warm, and at rest during the winter. The hardy kinds may be left in the ground. Propagated by seeds or division of the roots--usually the latter. The best time to divide them is just as they commence their new growth, securing as many roots as possible to each division. Any rootless pieces should be placed in heat shortly after removal; this hastens the formation of roots and excites top growth. Arums are useful in sub-tropical gardening, and are otherwise interesting plants both for indoors and outside cultivation; and the hardy kinds are very suitable for naturalising in woodlands, &c. There are many other species besides those here described, but the following list comprises the best. Sub-sections of the genus will be found treated separately, such as =Amorphophallus= (which see), &c.

=A. bulbosum= (bulbous). Synonymous with A. ternatum.

=A. Dracontium= (Green Dragon). fl., spadix subulate, longer than the oblong convolute green spathe. June. l. pedate, entire. h. 2ft. North America, 1759. Hardy.

=A. Dracunculus= (Common Dragon).* fl., spadix lanceolate, shorter than the ovate, flat, smooth, brown spathe. July. l. pedate, entire. h. 3ft. South Europe, 1548. Hardy. SYN. Dracunculus vulgaris. See Fig. 154.

=A. indicum= (Indian). See =Colocasia indica=.

=A. italicum= (Italian).* fl., spathe ventricose below, opening nearly flat and very broad above; apex often falling over very shortly after expansion, sometimes greenish yellow, at others nearly white; spadix yellowish or creamy white, club-shaped, about one-third as long as the spathe. Spring. l. appearing before winter, radical, triangular-hastate. h. 9in. to 2ft. Channel Islands and Cornwall, &c. Hardy.

=A. i. marmorata= (marbled).* l. marbled with yellow. A very pretty and effective hardy border plant.

=A. maculatum= (spotted). Lords and Ladies; Cuckoo Pint. fl., spathe ventricose below and above, constricted in the middle, with inflexed edges when open, spotted with dull purple; spadix usually purple, shorter than the spathe. Spring. l. vernal radical, hastate-sagittate, with deflexed lobes. h. 9in. Britain, &c. This species is admirably adapted for a corner in the wild garden. See Fig. 153.

=A. Malyi= (Maly's). fl. whitish. Montenegro, 1860.

=A. Nickelli= (Nickel's). Levant, 1859. A form of A. italicum.

=A. orientale= (eastern). fl. resembling those of A. maculatum. June. l. brownish, simple, ovate, slightly sagittate. h. 1ft. Tauria, 1820. Hardy.

=A. palæstinum= (Palestine).* fl., spathe 7in. to 11in. long, purplish blotched or spotted outside, rich velvety black inside and yellowish white at the base of the tube; spadix much shorter than the spathe; petiole usually rising 8in. or 9in. above the leaves. May. l. four or five, triangular-hastate, acute, from 6in. to 14in. long, and from 3-1/2in. to 7-1/2in. broad; petioles 12in. to 18in. long. Jerusalem, 1864. Tender.

=A. pictum= (painted). h. 2ft. Corsica, 1801. Hardy.

=A. proboscideum= (proboscis-like).* fl., spathe greenish purple, navicular, horizontal, terminated by a straight tail; scapes arising from among the petioles. May. l. radical, about four, cordate-elliptic, entire. h. 6in. South Europe, 1823. Hardy.

=A. spectabile= (showy). fl., spathe ovate-oblong, acuminate, dark purplish inside, longer than the purplish spadix. l. broadly hastate-sagittate. h. 1ft. Asia Minor. Half-hardy.

=A. spirale= (spiral). fl., spadix lanceolate, shorter than the oblong-lanceolate spirally twisted brown spathe. May. l. linear-lanceolate. Plant stemless. h. 1ft. China, 1816. Tender.

=A. tenuifolium= (narrow-leaved).* fl., spadix subulate, longer than the white lanceolate spathe. April. l. linear-lanceolate. Plant stemless. h. 1ft. South Europe, 1570. Hardy.

=A. ternatum= (three-leafleted). A synonym of Pinellia tuberifera.

=A. variolatum= (variegated). Dalmatia, 1859. Hardy.

=A. venosum= (veined). A synonym of Sauromatum guttatum.

=A. Zelebori= (Zelebor's). A form of A. maculatum.

=ARUM LILY.= See =Richardia æthiopica=.

=ARUNDINARIA= (altered from arundo, a reed). ORD. Gramineæ. A small genus of hardy or nearly hardy shrubby grasses, having strong jointed stems, and frequently included under Bambusa. For sub-tropical gardening purposes more particularly it is exceedingly ornamental as an isolated tuft. It thrives best in a deep, rich soil, and requires plenty of water when in a growing state. Increased by division of the roots.

=A. falcata= (sickle-shaped).* l. linear-lanceolate, very acute, shortly stalked, very light green. Stems freely branched, deep green, and very slender. h. 3ft. to 6ft. India. An extremely handsome species for greenhouse decoration; also for outdoor work, particularly in the South of England, &c. SYN. Bambusa gracilis, of gardens.

=A. Maximowiczii= (Maximowicz's). This Japanese species is believed to be allied to, if not identical with, Bambusa Simonii. Quite hardy.

=A. Metake= (Metake). l. lanceolate, with very sharp points, dark green, persistent, narrowed into a short leafstalk, 6in. to 12in. long; sheath ample. h. 4ft. to 6ft. Japan. A handsome, hardy, dwarf, much-branched species, forming grand specimens, and producing flowers very freely. SYN. Bambusa japonica.

=ARUNDO= (origin of word doubtful; stated by some authorities to be from arundo, a reed; and others as from the Celtic arn, signifying water). Reed. ORD. Gramineæ. A very ornamental group of half or quite hardy plants, of very easy culture in ordinary garden soil, preferring damp situations. Panicle loose; calyx two-valved, unequal, many-flowered; corolla of two very unequal valves; all, except the lower and imperfect one, surrounded by a tuft of hairs. Fruit free, covered by the corolla. Arundos are very valuable either for conservatory decoration, sub*-tropical gardening, or cultivation in clumps on the turf of the flower-garden or pleasure ground, and the margins of lakes. Although well worth growing, all are inferior to their ally, the Pampas Grass. Propagated by seeds or divisions, the spring being the best time to adopt either method of increase.

=A. conspicua= (conspicuous).* fl. silky-white, on large drooping racemes, and lasting in beauty for several months. h. 3ft. to 8ft., but in a good deep and sandy loam it sometimes attains the height of 12ft. New Zealand, 1843. This fine species grows in dense tufts, from which arise numerous leathery, narrow, smooth (or slightly rough), long curving leaves, and erect, slender culms. The plant is not sufficiently hardy to withstand a severe winter, and should, therefore, be protected with mats, or be grown in tubs, so that it can be removed under shelter before the approach of winter. These precautions are unnecessary in the more southern counties of England.

=A. Donax= (Donax).* Great Reed. fl. reddish, ultimately whitish, in numerous spikelets, forming a large compact panicle 12in. to 16in. long. Autumn. l. alternate, lanceolate-acute, large, and ornamental, glaucous green, arching. h. about 12ft. South Europe, 1648. This also requires protection during winter in the colder counties. See Fig. 156.

=A. D. versicolor= (various-coloured).* h. 3ft. South Europe. Although much smaller, this variety is far superior to the type for gardening purposes, and has its leaves ribboned with white. It requires a deep, well drained, sandy loam to thrive well, and a thorough winter protection of cocoa-fibre refuse or coal ashes. For isolated tufts or groups, few plants can equal it. It is propagated by placing a stem in water, which induces little rooted plants to start from the joints; these should be separated, potted off, and kept in frames until thoroughly established.

=A. mauritanica= (Mediterranean Reed). This is a rare greenhouse species, closely allied to A. Donax, but inferior to it.

=ARYTERA.= A synonym of =Ratonia= (which see).

=ASAFœTIDA.= See =Narthex Asafœtida=.

=ASARABACCA.= See =Asarum europæum=.

=ASARUM= (from a, not, and saron, feminine; derivation doubtful). ORD. Aristolochiaceæ. Curious hardy herbaceous perennials, with bell-shaped, three-cleft perianths. They should be planted at the foot of the rockery, or in borders or woodlands, as they are not very showy, but are, nevertheless, worth growing, and easily propagated by divisions, in spring.

=A. canadense= (Canadian).* fl. brown, campanulate, on a short peduncle, sometimes nearly buried. May and June. l. in pairs, broadly reniform. h. 1ft. Canada, &c., 1713.

=A. caudatum= (tailed).* fl. brownish-red, with attenuated or caudate calyx lobes. July. l. cordate-reniform, hooded, sub-acute, or bluntish, slightly pubescent. California, 1880. A rare and pretty species. See Fig. 157.

=A. europæum= (European). A sarabacca. fl. dull brown, solitary, rather large, drooping; segments of perianth incurved. May. l. two on each stem, roundish-reniform, stalked, slightly waved. h. 1ft. England.

=ASCENDING.= Directed upwards; as the stem, which is the ascending axis.

=ASCLEPIADEÆ.= A large order of, for the most part, lactescent, climbing shrubs. Flowers sub-umbellate, fascicled or racemose, interpetiolar; pollen collected in the form of waxy masses, coalescing to the cells of the anthers; follicles two, one of which is abortive. Leaves entire, usually opposite.

=ASCLEPIAS= (the Greek name of Æsculapius of the Latins). Swallow-wort. ORD. Asclepiadeæ. Erect, hardy, herbaceous or sub-shrubby perennials, except where otherwise specified. Corolla five-parted, reflexed; umbels interpetiolar; corona seated on the upper part of the tube of the filaments, five-leaved. Leaves opposite, verticillate, sometimes alternate. Most of the hardy species are very handsome border plants, thriving in peaty, or light rich soil, and are increased by dividing the roots in spring, and sometimes also by seeds. The doubtfully hardy or rarer species should always be grown in a peat soil, and have a little protection during severe frost, by mulching the roots. The most important of the greenhouse and stove species is A. curassavica. In order to obtain good bushy specimens of this, it will be necessary to cut the plants back annually, after keeping them slightly dry, and resting for a month or two in midwinter. When growth has sufficiently advanced, they should be shaken out and repotted. At this stage, a close, moist atmosphere will be needful to produce the usually very free growth. The points of the shoots must be nipped out, in order to promote a bushy habit. When the pots have become filled with roots, liquid manure may be applied; but it must be quite clear and not over strong. All the indoor species grow best in good fibry loam and leaf mould, and require to be potted firmly. Cuttings should be secured in spring, struck in gentle heat, under a bell glass, and as soon as they are well rooted, potted into 60-size pots. A shift must be given as often as the pots become filled with roots, up to the time when the plant commences flowering. Seeds may be sown in pots in spring, pricked out singly when large enough, and then treated similarly to cuttings.

=A. acuminata= (taper-pointed).* fl. red and white; umbels lateral, solitary, erect. July. l. ovate, sub-cordate, acuminated, on short petioles; superior ones sessile, glabrous, but rough on the edges. Stems erect, glabrous, simple. h. 2ft. New Jersey, 1826. Hardy, herbaceous.

=A. amœna= (pleasing).* fl. beautiful purple; umbels terminal, erect; appendages of corona exserted, red. July. l. opposite, almost sessile, oblong-oval, downy beneath, with a large purple middle nerve. Stem simple, with two rows of down. h. 2ft. to 3ft. New England, 1732. Hardy, herbaceous.

=A. Cornuti= (Cornuti's).* Synonymous with A. syriaca.

=A. curassavica= (Curassavian). Redhead. fl. reddish orange-scarlet; umbels erect, solitary, lateral. July to September. l. opposite, oblong-lanceolate, tapering at both ends. Stem rather downy, simple, seldom a little branched. h. 1ft. to 3ft. Tropical America, 1692. The white-flowered variety is a very pretty contrast. Stove herbaceous.

=A. Douglasii= (Douglas's).* fl. large, waxy, purplish-lilac, sweet-scented, in many-flowered umbels. Summer. l. opposite, ovate-cordate, acuminated, 6-1/2in. long by 5in. or more wide, glabrous above, downy beneath. Stem thick, woolly, simple. h. 2ft. to 3ft. West America, 1846.

=A. hybrida= (hybrid). A synonym of A. purpurascens.

=A. incarnata= (flesh-coloured).* fl. red or purplish; umbels numerous, usually twin. July. l. opposite, lanceolate, rather woolly on both surfaces. Stem erect, branched and tomentose at the top. h. 2ft. Canada (on the banks of rivers), 1710. Hardy, herbaceous.

=A. mexicana= (Mexican). fl. white; umbels many-flowered. July. l. verticillate, linear-lanceolate, with revolute edges; lower ones four to six in a whorl; upper ones three in a whorl, or opposite. h. 2ft. to 3ft. Mexico, 1821. Greenhouse evergreen.

=A. phytolaccoides= (Phytolacca-like). fl. purple; corona white, with truncate leaflets; umbels lateral and terminal, solitary, on long peduncles, drooping. July. l. broad, ovate-oblong, acute, glabrous, paler beneath. Stem erect, simple, spotted with purple. h. 3ft. to 4ft. Virginia and Carolina (on the mountains), 1812.

=A. purpurascens= (purplish). fl. purple; umbels erect. July. l. opposite, large, ovate, with a purplish middle nerve, villous beneath. Stem simple, rather hairy at top, brownish green at bottom. h. 2ft. to 3ft. Virginia (in shady swamps), 1732. Hardy. SYN. A. hybrida.

=A. quadrifolia= (four-leaved).* fl. white, small, sweet-scented, with red nectaries; umbels twin, terminal, loose-flowered; pedicels filiform. July. l. ovate, acuminated, petiolate; those in the middle of the stem larger, and four in a whorl; the rest opposite. Stems erect, simple, glabrous. h. 1ft. New York, 1820. Hardy species.

=A. rubra= (red), fl. red; umbels compound, July, August. l. alternate, ovate, acuminated. Stem erect, simple. h. 1ft. to 2ft. Virginia, 1825.

=A. Sullivanti= (Sullivant's). Similar to A. syriaca, but having larger and deeper coloured flowers.

=A. syriaca= (Syrian).* fl. pale purple, sweet scented, in large, loose, drooping umbels. July. l. opposite, lanceolate-oblong, or oval, gradually acute, tomentose beneath. Stems simple. h. 3ft. to 5ft. North America, 1629. SYN. A. Cornuti.

=A. tuberosa= (tuberous).* fl. bright orange, very showy; umbels disposed in a terminal sub-corymb. July to September. l. scattered, oblong-lanceolate, hairy. Stems erectish, divaricately branched at top, very hairy. h. 1ft. to 2ft. North America (in stony, sandy fields and woods), 1690. A desirable hardy herbaceous border plant. See Fig. 158.

=A. variegata= (variegated). fl., petals and foliola of corona white, fructification red, in dense umbels, very handsome; umbels almost sessile; pedicels hairy. July. l. opposite, ovate, petiolate, wrinkled, naked. Stems simple. erect, variegated with purple. h. 3ft. to 4ft. New York to Carolina (on dry, sandy hills), 1597.

=A. verticillata= (whorled). fl., corolla with yellowish green petals and white nectaries; umbels many-flowered. July and August. l. very narrow, linear, thick, quite glabrous, usually verticillate, but sometimes scattered. Stems erect, often branched, having a downy line on one side. h. 1ft. to 2ft. New Jersey, 1759.

=ASCYRON.= See =Hypericum Ascyron=.

=ASCYRUM= (from a, without, and skyros, hard; that is to say, a plant which is soft to the touch). ORD. Hypericinæ. A genus of elegant little herbs and sub-shrubs, with sessile, entire leaves, destitute of pellucid dots, but usually furnished with black dots beneath. Flowers resembling Hypericum. They require to be protected during winter by a frame; for this purpose they should be grown in pots, as they never exist long in the open border. A compost of peat, pure leaf soil, and sand, in equal portions, suits them well; young cuttings of the shrubby kinds will root in sand under a hand bell glass. Propagated by careful divisions of the roots in spring. All may be raised from seeds.

=A. amplexicaule= (stem-clasping). fl. yellow, few, axillary, and terminal; corymbs naked. July. l. stem-clasping, ovate, cordate, sinuately-curled. Stem dichotomously panicled. h. 2ft. North America, 1823. The flowers and leaves are longer in this than in any other of the species.

=A. Crux Andreæ.=* St. Andrew's Cross. fl., petals narrow-pale, yellow, nearly sessile, in terminal corymbs. July. l. ovate-linear, obtuse, usually in bundles in the axils. Stem shrubby, round. h. 1ft. North America (in sandy fields), 1759. This proves to be quite hardy in many situations.

=A. hypericoides= (Hypericum-like). fl. yellow. August. l. linear-oblong, obtuse. h. 2ft. North America, 1759.

=A. stans= (standing). St. Peter's Wort. fl. yellow. August. l. oval or oblong, somewhat clasping. h. 2ft. North America, 1816.

=ASHES.= The earthy or mineral particles of combustible substances, remaining after combustion. Ashes are amongst the most economical manures.

Vegetable Ashes are generally the best application for manuring boggy, cold, and, consequently, sour and unprofitable land, in quantities of about forty bushels per acre, thinly and evenly distributed. The annual exhaustion of salts from large crops of grain, roots, and grass, is from 180lb. to more than 250lb. per acre; and the aggregate of a few years will so far impoverish the soil in one or more of the principles necessary to sustain a luxuriant vegetation, that it will cease to yield remunerating returns. The ashes of vegetables consist of such elements as are always required for their perfect maturity, and it is evident they must furnish one of the best saline manures which can be supplied for their growth; they contain, in fact, every element, and generally in the right proportions, for insuring a full and rapid growth. Both gardener and farmer will therefore perceive the great value of Ashes to their crops.

Coal Ashes. The bituminous and anthracite coals afford Ashes, and, although inferior in quality to those made from wood and vegetables, are, like them, a valuable manure, and they should be applied to the land in a similar manner. If they contain many cinders, from not having been thoroughly burned, they are more suited to heavy than to light soils. Coal Ashes, if very fine, may be sprinkled half an inch deep on the surface, over peas and beans, &c., to preserve them from mice; they may also be used for garden and greenhouse walks, where bricks or tiles are absent, being tidy in appearance, and an excellent substitute for other and more expensive material.

Peat Ashes. Peat approaching to purity, when thrown out of its bed and thoroughly dried, may be burned to an imperfect Ash, and when it does not reach this point, it will become thoroughly charred, and reduced to cinders. The process of burning should be as slow as possible. In either form, it is a valuable dressing for the soil.

=ASH-TREE.= See =Fraxinus=.

=ASIATIC POISON BULB.= See =Crinum asiaticum=.

=ASIMINA= (meaning unknown). ORD. Anonaceæ. Hardy shrubs, with oblong, cuneated, usually deciduous leaves. Flowers sometimes rising before the leaves, usually solitary and axillary. They thrive freely in a mixture of sand and peat. Propagated by layers put down in the autumn, or by seed, procured from their native country. Seedlings should be raised in pots, and sheltered in winter, until they have acquired a considerable size.

=A. triloba= (three-lobed).* fl. campanulate, the three outer petals pale purplish, and the three inner ones smaller, purplish on the outside as well as the inside at the base and apex, with the middle yellow, about 2in. diameter, produced between the upper leaves. May. l. oblong-cuneated, often acuminated, and, as well as the branches, smoothish. h. 10ft. Pennsylvania, 1736. A small tree or shrub. See Fig. 159.

=ASKALLON= (the Eschallot). See =Allium ascalonicum=.

=ASPALATHUS= (from a, not, and spao, to extract; in reference to the difficulty of extracting its thorns from a wound). Including Sarcophyllus. ORD. Leguminosæ. Shrubs or sub-shrubs, natives, with one exception, of the Cape of Good Hope. Flowers usually yellow, furnished with three bracteoles, or a leaf comprised of three leaflets. Leaves of three to five leaflets, disposed palmately, rarely pinnately, having scarcely any or very short petioles. All the species are pretty when in flower, and thrive in a mixture of loam, peat, and sand. Young cuttings of half-ripened wood will strike in April, in sand, under bell glasses, which must be wiped dry occasionally. But little water is needed. Over a hundred species are known; those introduced are very rarely seen in cultivation.

=ASPARAGUS= (from a, intensive, and sparasso, to tear; in reference to the strong prickles of some species). ORD. Liliaceæ. Erect or climbing herbs or shrubs, with very small scale-like leaves, and a profusion of numerous slender fascicled-needle, rather spiny branchlets. Flowers axillary, inconspicuous. Fruit baccate. The indoor species will all thrive well in a warm greenhouse temperature, provided they have partial shade, a good supply of moisture at the roots, and are not kept too close, in a moderately rich sandy compost. The hardy species are propagated chiefly by seeds and divisions of the roots. Rich sandy loam is necessary, and otherwise they may be treated as ordinary perennials. Some of the species belonging to this genus are among the most elegant of foliage plants for cutting purposes. A. decumbens and A. scandens make excellent plants for Wardian cases, and may be cut in freely if they exceed their limits.

ASPARAGUS (A. officinalis) AS A VEGETABLE. The value and importance of this plant as a vegetable cannot be over-estimated; it is extensively grown, and, when properly managed, produces a fairly lucrative crop.

Soil and Bed. The first thing to be done in the preparation of an Asparagus bed to stand for any length of time, is to secure an efficient drainage; and on wet soils this is best effected by placing a layer of brick rubbish over the whole of the bottom, and connecting this with a drain. On gravelly or other soils which are drained naturally, of course, this is not needed; but if really good crops are a desideratum, water should not stand within 3ft. of the surface. In all cases, the ground must be dug to a depth of 18in., and, if stiff, a goodly amount of road sweepings, or other gritty materials, should be well mixed with the staple soil. Asparagus requires a good soil, neither too heavy nor too light.

Manuring. After the soil has been well trenched, and has lain long enough to settle down, a good dressing of manure--thoroughly rotted, and not too rank, at the rate of from twenty to thirty tons to the acre, dug into the surface of the beds-—will be found very beneficial. If possible, this should be introduced in January; and then, if the weather permits, the beds should be forked two or three times by the end of March, so as to render the soil as friable as possible. A very good manure, and one that is easily obtained, is common garden salt. This may be given annually to established beds. A moderate dressing should be applied just before growth commences in spring, but a little will do no harm at other times during the summer. It is best scattered on with the hand, and a showery day should be selected, as it will then soon disappear. Salt, besides acting as a manure, has also the properties of keeping the beds cool and moist in hot weather, and of preventing the growth of weeds.

Planting. Asparagus can be planted during March and April, the latter month being the best time for the work. The soil having been thoroughly prepared, the next point is to decide on the size of the beds; this depends on the size of garden, and the class of "grass" desired. When very large and fine stocks are the object in view, the best results will accrue if the plants are fully a yard apart each way; but this means a comparatively small crop. A good plan is to make the beds 3ft. wide, planting two rows, at a distance of 1ft. from each other, and allowing 18in. between each plant, placing them in alternate order. An 18in. alley should be allowed between the beds. The roots used for making the beds should be one year old, and fresh from the ground. In planting, pull out a wide drill with a hoe, or other tool, to the depth of about 3in. or 4in., and spread out the roots all round. Carefully shake the soil in amongst the roots, and, if dry, apply some water through a coarse-rosed watering pot, to settle the earth around them. At intervals, as necessary, give other waterings till September, when they should be discontinued. At all times, keep the beds free from weeds, removing them by the hand to prevent injury to the crowns of the plants. If the ground is good, no liquid manure will be needed the first year. As soon as the foliage turns yellow, cut it off, cleanly rake over the beds, and leave till about January, when a top-dressing of from 1in. to 3in. of thoroughly rotted manure may be applied with advantage. At the end of February, rake off the bed all loose straw or other debris, and throw on them a little of the soil from the alleys, raking down, and finishing off the edges squarely and neatly. During this and succeeding years, apply liquid manure and clear water, from time to time, as required; and, provided the manure is not of too great strength, there is scarcely any limit to its application; but, in many instances, beds which have only received an annual dressing have given a good return. Each year they must be cut over and dressed as before described, but care must be taken to keep them flat on the surface, otherwise the plants will die out for want of moisture. When the produce appears, the beds should be kept cut over until the 20th of June, after which, cutting should cease, or they will be rendered comparatively unproductive. Cutting can commence the second or third year, or as soon as there is any "grass" worth taking. Several methods of growing these plants could be cited, but that which we have recommended will be found most satisfactory.

Seeds. Plants are raised by sowing seeds in rows across the kitchen garden, or selected quarter, about the month of April. The seedlings make a growth, and form good plants during the first season. In March or April of the following year, or the year after, they may be removed, and planted out permanently, as already alluded to. Many cultivators prefer growing their own plants from seed; because during the transit of the roots from any distance to where they are to be grown, a frequent and injurious exhaustion takes place, and particularly so when they are carelessly packed.

Forcing. Asparagus can, if properly treated, be obtained from December onwards; and at Christmas time the produce is very valuable; but, in order to obtain it at this season, it will be necessary to resort to forcing. Prepare some beds to secure a lasting heat, and on these place about 3in. of ordinary garden soil, not very stiff. Then take the roots, and place them crown upwards, and moderately close together, shaking the soil well amongst the roots, and covering about a couple of inches deep. Water well, to settle the whole, and put on the lights, allowing a little ventilation, to let out any steam which may arise. Unless the weather be very cold indeed, give a little air at all times, and only cover the lights in actual frost. From time to time, apply fresh linings of hot manure, and in cold rains, or wind, cover the outsides of the frames with old sacks, or other things which will keep in the heat. A regular and steady temperature of 60deg. will force this plant with better results than a higher one. Houses that are fitted with hot-water pipes to give bottom heat can be used equally as well as manure beds, and so long as the soil is kept moist, the heat thus obtained is as good as any for the purpose, and much less trouble than fermenting materials. To keep up a regular supply, a succession of beds will be necessary. Asparagus can be forced, or rather forwarded, in pots or boxes, in a warm greenhouse or vinery, and, of course, when the plants are done with, they can be cast away. We give an illustration (Fig. 160) of a bearing crown fit for gentle forcing; but, of course, it must not be left so bare of earth as appears here, which is done for the purpose of clearness.

Varieties. Connover's Colossal, and Giant, are the most esteemed. Strains are frequently largely advertised as improvements on the sorts above-mentioned, and the charges are higher accordingly. The difference may be generally attributed to the culture the plants receive more than to an improved variety. When saving seed for home sowing, they should be taken from the strongest growths, or deterioration will ensue.

=A. æthiopicus ternifolius= (ternate). fl. white, in shortly-stalked racemes, very profuse. August. l., false ones in threes, flattened, narrow, linear; prickles solitary, reversed; branches angular. h. 30ft. South Africa, 1872. A greenhouse evergreen.

=A. Broussoneti= (Broussonet's).* fl. very small, succeeded by small red berries. May. l., lower ones solitary, the others ternate, 1in. long, needle-shaped, persistent, distant, glaucescent; stipules with reflected spines at the base. Summer. Stem tapering, streaked, shrubby. h. 10ft. Canary Islands, 1822. A very pretty hardy climber.

=A. Cooperi= (Cooper's). fl. axillary, one to three, from the same nodes as the false leaves; perianth cream-coloured, one line long. April and May. l. minute, deltoid, scariose, reddish-brown; false leaves six to fifteen to a node, subulate, moderately firm, 1/4in. to 3/8in. long, spreading or ascending. h. 10ft. to 12ft. Africa, 1862. A greenhouse climber, with a shrubby terete main stem, 1-1/2in. to 2in. thick at the base, sending out crowds of spreading branches, which bear abundant slender, firm, alternate branchlets; nodes of branches and branchlets, furnished with distinct red-brown, subulate prickles, those of the main stems 1/4in. long, deflexed, but not curved.

=A. decumbens= (decumbent).* Stem unarmed, decumbent, much branched; branches wavy; leaves setaceous, in threes. Cape of Good Hope, 1792. A greenhouse evergreen herbaceous perennial.

=A. falcatus= (hooked-leaved). l. fascicled, linear, falcate; branches round; prickles solitary, recurved; peduncles one-flowered, clustered. h. 3ft. India, 1792. A greenhouse evergreen perennial.

=A. officinalis= (officinal). Common Asparagus. fl. greenish-white, drooping. August. l. setaceous, fasciculate, flexible, unarmed. Stem herbaceous, mostly erect, rounded, very much branched. h. 1ft. Said to grow on "Asparagus Island," Kynance Cove, Lizard, but we have never found it there, and it has probably long since been exterminated.

=A. plumosus= (plumed).* fl. white, small, produced from the tips of the branchlets. Spring. l., true ones in the form of minute deltoid scales, with an acute ultimately reflexed point; the false ones are grouped in tufts, each being 1/8in. to 1/4in. long, bristle-shaped, and finely pointed. South Africa, 1876. An elegant evergreen climber, with smooth stems and numerous spreading branches. It forms an excellent plant when trained in pots, and is invaluable for cutting.

=A. p. nanus= (dwarf).* A very elegant dwarf variety of above. Stems tufted, slender, and gracefully arching. South Africa, 1880. For bouquets, the cut sprays of both type and variety have the advantage of much greater persistency than any fern, retaining their freshness in water from three to four weeks. See Fig. 161, for which we are indebted to Messrs. Veitch and Sons.

=A. racemosus= (racemose). fl. greenish-white, in many-flowered axillary racemes. May. l. bundled, linear-subulate, falcate; branches striated; prickles solitary. h. 3ft. India, 1808. Greenhouse evergreen shrub.

=A. ramosissimus= (very branching). fl. solitary, at the tips of the branchlets; pedicels hardly perpendicular, one and a-half to two lines long; cream coloured. June. l. obscurely spurred at the base; false leaves three to eight-nate, flattened; linear-falcate acute, 1/4in. to 3/8in. long, spreading. South Africa, 1862. A wide climbing, copiously branched, slender greenhouse shrub, with very numerous spreading or ascending branches and branchlets.

=A. scandens= (climbing).* fl. whitish, axillary on the ultimate branchlets, succeeded by round orange-coloured berries. The annual, much-branched, unarmed stems bear, usually in threes, numerous small linear-pointed leaves, which on the ultimate branches spread nearly in one plane. Cape of Good Hope, 1795. An elegant climbing greenhouse perennial.

=A. virgatus= (twiggy).* A remarkably elegant feathery looking plant, of shrubby habit. The stems, which issue from the crown of the stout fleshy roots, are of a dark green colour, and bear at the upper end a corymbose head of erect branches, of which the lowest is the youngest or most recently developed. These branches are again twice branched, the ultimate branchlets being furnished with needle-shaped false leaves, 1/2in. long, which usually grow in threes. South Africa, 1862.

=ASPARAGUS BEETLE= (Crioceris asparagi), or "Cross-bearer." This beautiful little insect is blue-black or greenish; the thorax is red with two black spots, and the wing-cases are yellow, with a black cross on them; the legs and antennæ are black. The short grey larva is flat underneath, arched on the back, and covered with hairs. The sides are of an olive hue, and the little legs and head are black. It ejects a drop of blackish fluid from the mouth when touched. When full grown, which takes about a fortnight, the larva measures about two lines in length; the average length of the perfect Beetle is about three lines. Although this insect does not actually destroy the plants, it inflicts much damage on the foliage, and checks the growth of the stems after they have attained some size, in consequence of which the foliage becomes much less in the next season. The eggs are fixed to the shoots, and are small, dark, pointed bodies. The larvæ do the harm, as they feed on the bark and tender portions of the plants. The mature Beetles should be picked off by hand, and, by commencing early enough in the season, their numbers will be greatly reduced. Syringing the plants with water, heated to a temperature that will not injure the plants, is found a useful method for removing the grubs.

White Hellebore. Freshly-ground White Hellebore, sprinkled over the foliage while it is damp, and repeating the operation at intervals of about eight days for a season, will generally effect a riddance; but the following will usually be found better in such cases. Neither must be applied until after cutting ceases, as they are very poisonous.

Paris Green. This, mixed and used as for Cherry Fly (see =Black Fly=), will generally got rid of the Beetle, if applied about thrice each season for two years. It should, however, only be used in severe cases.

Soot, applied in the same manner as White Hellebore, and in liberal quantities, will, in a season or two, clear the beds. If a bushel of salt be mixed with each twenty bushels of soot, it will enhance the effect.

=ASPARAGUS KNIFE.= The Asparagus Knife consists of a strong blade fixed in a handle. There are, or were, three kinds employed: In one form, the blade was blunt on both sides, straight, with a sharp tip, and not unlike a small chisel. Another had its blade slightly hooked, and serrated at one end. But the best is that now almost universally employed, and which is illustrated by Fig. 162.

=ASPASIA= (from aspazomai, I embrace; the column embraced by the labellum). ORD. Orchidaceæ. A genus of elegant stove Epidendrum-like epiphytal orchids, with the lip united to the column, and broad, thin pseudo-bulbs. The name Aspasia is now and then met with attached to a totally different genus. Salisbury gave it to a liliaceous plant which is now referred to Ornithogalum. For culture and propagation, see =Stanhopea=.

=A. epidendroides= (Epidendrum-like).* fl. whitish yellow; sepals linear oblong, acute; petals obtuse, concave, lateral lobes of lip roundish, entire, middle lobe crenated emarginate. February. Pseudo-bulbs oblong, two-edged. h. 1ft. Panama, 1833.

=A. lunata= (crescent-marked).* fl. green, white, and brown, solitary; sepals and petals linear obtuse, spreading; lip three-lobed, lateral lobes short, middle one flat, nearly square, wavy. February. Pseudo-bulbs oblong, two-edged. h. 1ft. Rio Janeiro, 1843.

=A. papilionacea= (butterfly-like).* fl., sepals and petals yellowish, mottled with brown lines on their internal inferior halves; lip fiddle-shape, its back very great, elliptic, apiculate; an orange-coloured area stands at its base, a wide violet disc before and around it. h. 9in. Costa Rica, 1876. Distinguished from A. lunata in having thirteen keels at the base of the lip, which is higher inserted, and in the echinulate anther. It is a beautiful but rare novelty.

=A. psittacina= (parrot-like).* fl., sepals and petals light green, with brown transverse bars, which sometimes consist of separate stripes, at other times of confluent ones; the fiddle-shaped lip shows two keels and a few purplish dots over its top; the column is brown at its top, then violet, and white at the base. Ecuador, 1878. It has a raceme of several flowers, usually one-sided, bent over.

=A. variegata= (variegated).* fl. green, spotted with yellowish red; sepals linear oblong; petals somewhat rhomboid, acute; lateral lobes of lip recurved, middle one fleshy, serrated. February. h. 9in. Panama, 1836. Deliciously sweet-scented in the morning.

=ASPEN.= See =Populus tremula=.

=ASPERA.= Rough, with hairs or points.

=ASPERULA= (from asper, rough; in allusion to the leaves). Woodruff. ORD. Rubiaceæ. Hardy herbs, rarely small shrubs. Flowers terminal and axillary, in fascicles. Leaves opposite, with one, two, or three stipulas on each side; they are therefore called four to eight in a whorl, but between the uppermost leaves there are no stipulas. Stems and branches usually tetragonal. Most of the species are very pretty when in flower, and are, therefore, well adapted for borders, rockwork, and shady places, in almost any garden soil. Propagated by divisions of the roots during spring and early summer. Herbaceous perennials, except where otherwise stated.

=A. azurea-setosa= (blue-bristly). A synonym of A. orientalis.

=A. calabrica= (Calabrian). A synonym of Putoria calabrica.

=A. cynanchica= (Cynanche-like). fl. on erect branches, forming a fastigiate corymb, white or bluish-coloured, elegantly marked with red lines, or sometimes pure white. Summer. l. four in a whorl; floral ones lanceolate-linear, acuminately awned; lower ones small, oblong, upper ones opposite. Plant glabrous, erectish. h. 9in. to 12in. England.

=A. hirta= (hairy). fl. white at first, changing to pink, with oblong divisions. July and August. l. usually six in a whorl, four towards the upper part, linear, hairy, deep green. h. 3in. Pyrenees, 1817. A charming but rare little alpine, thriving best in a rather damp position on the rockery.

=A. longiflora= (long-flowered).* fl. whitish, yellowish inside, and reddish outside; tube of corolla elongated; fascicles terminal, pedunculate; bracteas small, subulate. Summer. l. four in a whorl, linear; lower ones small, obovate; upper ones opposite. Stems weak, numerous, from the same neck, erectish, glabrous. h. 6in. Hungary, 1821.

=A. montana= (mountain).* fl., corollas pink, four-cleft, scabrous externally; in fascicles. June, July. l. linear; lower ones six in a whorl; middle ones four; upper ones opposite; floral leaves linear. Stem weak, glabrous. h. 6in. to 8in. Hungary, 1801.

=A. odorata= (sweet-scented).* Sweet Woodruff. fl. snowy white; corymbs terminal, pedunculate, usually trifid, each division bearing about four flowers. May, June. l. eight in a whorl, lanceolate, smooth, with serrulately scabrous edges. Stems tetragonal, simple, erect, or ascending. h. 6in. to 12in. Britain. This very pretty little plant is scentless when fresh, but, when dried, it diffuses an odour like that of spring grass; and when kept among clothes, it not only imparts an agreeable perfume to them, but preserves them from insects.

=A. orientalis= (Oriental).* fl. sky blue, in terminal heads; bracts of involucre shorter than the flowers. Summer. l. lanceolate, bristly, about eight in a whorl. h. 1ft. Caucasus, 1867. A charming little, profuse blooming, hardy annual, bearing clusters of fragrant flowers, admirably adapted for bouquet making. SYN. A. azurea-setosa. See Fig. 163.

=A. taurina= (bull). fl., corollas white, elongated; corymbs pedunculate, axillary, fasciculately umbellate, involucrated; bracteas ciliated. April to June. l. four in a whorl, ovate-lanceolate, three-nerved, with finely ciliated margins. Plant smoothish, erect. h. 1ft. South Europe, 1739.

=A. tinctoria= (Dyers'). fl. white, reddish on the outside; usually trifid. June. l. linear; lower ones six in a whorl; middle ones four; and the uppermost ones opposite; floral leaves ovate. Plant procumbent, unless supported. Stem 1ft. to 2ft. long, purplish. Europe, 1764.

=ASPHALT.= Artificial Asphalt is now generally used in England for footpaths, &c. The recipes are various, one of the best being the following: Lime rubbish two parts, coal ashes one part (both must be very dry), sifted very fine; mix them, and leave a hole in the middle of the heap, wherein pour boiling hot coal tar; mix well together. When as stiff as mortar, lay it down, 3in. thick, on a dry and previously well-levelled surface. A boy should follow with dry, finely-sifted sand, distributing just enough to prevent his boots sticking to the tar. Two men should be employed for the tarring, whilst another should attend to the boiling operation. Only just enough tar to last ten minutes must be taken from the furnace at one time, as, if it be not boiling, the walks will become soft under the action of very hot sun. This may be repeated every three years. It is imperative that the surface, lime, coal ashes and sand be perfectly dry, and that the days selected for the operation be very fine, the hotter the better. Another excellent plan is that of using gas lime and coal ashes. There must be a firm foundation and smooth surface. Spread the gas lime to about 1-1/2in. deep, and level with the back of a spade. Over this place a thin layer of coal dust, and well roll. The work is then complete.

=ASPHODEL.= See =Asphodelus=.

=ASPHODELINE.= ORD. Liliaceæ. A genus of plants allied to Asphodelus, but distinguished from it by having erect leafy stems. They thrive in any ordinary garden soil. Propagated by division.

=A. brevicaulis= (short-stemmed). fl. in lax, often panicled racemes, yellow, veined with green. l. subulate, ascending, lower ones 4in. to 6in. long. Stem slender, often flexuose. Orient.

=A. damascena= (Damascene). fl. white, in dense generally simple racemes, 6in. to 12in. long. l. in dense rosette, 6in. to 9in. long, subulate. Stem simple, erect. h. 1-1/2ft. to 2ft. Asia Minor.

=A. liburnica= (Liburnian). fl. yellow, striped with green, in generally simple lax racemes, 6in. to 9in. long. Stem simple, erect, strict, 1ft. to 2ft. high, upper half naked. South Europe.

=A. lutea= (yellow). fl. yellow, fragrant, in a dense, very long, straight, simple raceme, in the axils of buff-coloured bracts, which are nearly as long as the flowers. Summer. l. numerous, awl-shaped, triangular, furrowed, smooth, dark green, marked with lines of a paler tint; root leaves tufted. Stem 3ft. or 4ft. high. Sicily, 1596. The best known and handsomest species. SYN. Asphodelus luteus.

=A. l. fl.-pl.= This resembles the species, but the flowers are double, and last much longer than those of the typical form; it is a very pretty plant.

=A. taurica= (Taurian). fl. white, striped with green, in generally simple dense racemes, 6in. to 12in. long, 1in. to 2in. wide. Stem simple, erect, 1ft. to 2ft. high, densely leafy at base of raceme. Asia Minor, &c. SYN. Asphodelus tauricus.

=A. tenuior= (slenderer). fl. yellow, in simple lax-flowered racemes, 3in. to 4in. long, 2in. wide. Stem simple lower half leaf, upper naked, 1ft. Orient. SYN. Asphodelus tenuior.

=ASPHODELUS= (from a, not, and sphallo, to supplant; in allusion to the beauty of the flowers). Asphodel. ORD. Liliaceæ. Very pretty hardy herbaceous perennials, with fleshy fasciculated roots. Perianth white or yellow, of six equal spreading segments; stamens six, hypogynous, alternately long and short. Leaves usually radical, tufted, narrow, or triquetrous. All the species enumerated thrive in good deep sandy loam, and are very suitable for borders and shrubberies. Propagated by division of the root, which is best done in early spring.

=A. æstivus= (summer). fl. white. Summer. h. 2ft. Spain, 1820.

=A. albus= (white).* fl. white; peduncles clustered the length of the bracts. May. l. linear, keeled, smooth. Stem naked, simple. h. 2ft. South Europe, 1596.

=A. creticus= (Cretan).* fl. yellow. July. l. filiform, striated, toothed, ciliated. Stem leafy, naked above, branched. h. 2ft. Crete, 1821.

=A. fistulosus= (pipe-stalked). fl. white. July, August. l. upright, striated, subulate, fistular. Stem naked. h. 18in. South Europe, 1596.

=A. luteus= (yellow). A synonym of Asphodeline lutea.

=A. ramosus= (branchy). fl. large, white, with a reddish-brown line in the middle of each segment, springing from the axils of ovate-lanceolate bracts, and in very long dense racemes. Summer. l. sword-shaped, stiff, sharply keeled below, channelled above. Stem much branched. h. 4ft. to 5ft. South Europe, 1829.

=A. Villarsii= (Villars'). fl. white; raceme dense, elongated; bracts dark brown. Stem simple or rarely branched. h. 1ft. to 2ft. Eastern France. See Fig. 164.

=ASPIDISTRA= (from aspidiseon, a little round shield; in reference to the form of the flower). SYN. Porpax (of Salisbury). Including Plectogyne. ORD. Liliaceæ. Hardy, or nearly hardy, evergreen, foliage plants. Flowers insignificant, produced close to the ground, remarkable for the curious mushroom-like stigma, by which this genus is characterised. They thrive in almost any ordinary garden soil, but are best grown in rich loam, leaf soil, and sand; plenty of moisture being allowed. Propagated by suckers.

=A. elatior= (taller).* l. oblong, large, on long petioles, leathery; plant stemless. h. 1-1/2ft. to 2ft. Japan, 1835. This very easily cultivated and quite hardy foliage plant is much grown for window gardening and other decorative purposes, for which it is well suited.

=A. e. variegata= (variegated).* A fine variety with alternately-striped green and white leaves.

=A. lurida= (lurid). fl. purple. July. l. oblong-lanceolate, on long petioles. h. 1ft. to 1-1/2ft. China, 1822. A very graceful species, with long evergreen leaves. It is an effective plant for the outdoor garden during summer, and is nearly, if not quite, hardy. See Fig. 165.

=A. punctata= (dotted). l. lanceolate, on long stalks. h. 1ft. China. This is very closely allied to A. elatior, but of inferior value.

=ASPIDIUM= (from aspidion, a little buckler; in allusion to the form of the involucre). Shield Fern. ORD. Filices. Including Cyclodium, Cyclopeltis, Cyrtomium, Phanerophlebia, and Polystichum. Stove, greenhouse, or hardy ferns. Sori sub-globose, dorsal or terminal on the veinlets; involucre orbicular, fixed by the centre. They thrive in a compost of sandy peat with a little loam. Several species are admirably adapted for the indoor fernery. The hardy species are best grown in the shade; a little sandstone should be incorporated with the soil. For general culture, see =Ferns=.

=A. acrostichoides= (Acrostichum-like).* sti. 6in. to 8in. long, densely scaly below. fronds 1ft. to 2ft. long, 2in. to 6in. broad; pinnæ of the lower half barren, 2in. to 3in. long, 1/4in. broad, spinoso-serrated throughout, auricled at the base above; the pinnæ of the upper half fertile, much smaller. sori occupying the whole under side. North America. SYN. Polystichum acrostichoides. Hardy.

=A. a. grandiceps= (large-crested).* A very handsome fern, having the apices of the fronds and pinnæ heavily crested; equally desirable for the hardy or temperate fernery. Of garden origin.

=A. a. incisum= (incised).* A variety with the pinnules deeply cut and acutely pointed.

=A. aculeatum= (sharp-pointed).* The Hard Shield Fern. sti. tufted, 6in. to 12in. long, more or less scaly. fronds 1ft. to 3ft. long, 6in. to 12in. broad, ovate-lanceolate; lower pinnæ close, lanceolate, 4in. to 6in. long, 1/2in. to 3/4in. broad; pinnules ovate-rhomboidal, unequal sided, auricled on the upper base; teeth aristate. sori nearer the midrib than the edge. A variable and hardy species, common throughout the world. SYN. Polystichum aculeatum. A. a. proliferum is a proliferous Australian form. A. a. vestitum has the rachis densely clothed to the point, both with reddish-brown fibrillose and large lanceolate dark brown scales. See Fig. 166.

=A. amabile= (lovely). sti. scattered, 6in. to 12in. long, slightly scaly below. fronds 1ft. or more long, 6in. to 12in. broad, with a lanceolate terminal pinna, and three to six lateral ones on each side, which are 3in. to 6in. long, 1in. to 1-1/2in. broad, the lowest sometimes divided at the base; segments sub-rhomboidal, with at least half the lower side cut away, the upper side and part of the lower lobed and sharply spinuloso-serrated. sori sub-marginal. Ceylon. Stove species. SYN. Polystichum amabile.

=A. angulare= (angular). The Soft Shield Fern. Botanically this is only a variety of A. aculeatum; but, to the cultivator, it is abundantly distinct. The fronds are not so tapered at the base, the pinnules are more equal in size, and the lower ones distinctly stalked, while the texture is much less rigid than in A. aculeatum, the caudex has a tendency to elongate. Almost cosmopolitan in its distribution. SYN. Polystichum angulare. There are an enormous number of varieties, many of which are not under cultivation. Amongst the best found in gardens are alatum, Bayliæ, concinnum, corymbiferum, cristatum, curtum, dissimile, grandiceps, imbricatum, Kitsoniæ, lineare, parvissimum, plumosum, polydactylon, proliferum, rotundatum, Wakeleyanum, Woollastoni.

=A. a. grandiceps= (large-crested). This is a narrow fronded variety, having the apices of the fronds branched and crested, ultimately producing a broad tasselled head. A very handsome fern. See Fig. 167.

=A. anomalum= (anomalous). sti. tufted, 1ft. to 2ft. long, densely scaly below. fronds 2ft. to 3ft. long, 1ft. or more broad; lower pinnæ 6in. to 9in. long, 2in. to 3in. broad; pinnules lanceolate, cut down in the lower part into oblong segments; teeth blunt or slightly mucronate. sori placed near the sinuses of the pinnules. Ceylon. Stove species. SYN. Polystichum anomalum.

=A. aristatum= (awned).* rhiz. creeping. sti. scattered, 9in. to 18in. long, very scaly below. fronds 1ft. to 2ft. long, 9in. to 12in. broad, ovate-deltoid, tri- or quadripinnatifid; lower pinnæ largest, 4in. to 6in. long, 2in. to 3in. broad; lowest pinnules much the largest, lanceolate-deltoid; teeth copious aristate. sori small, principally in two rows near the midrib. Japan, Himalayas, New South Wales, &c. Greenhouse species. SYN. Polystichum aristatum.

=A. a. coniifolium= (Conium-leaved).* fronds more finely divided; segments copiously toothed, with lower lobes distinct.

=A. a. variegatum= (variegated).* A handsome variety, with a broad band of green running through the bases of the pinnules along the course of the rachis.

=A. auriculatum= (eared).* sti. tufted, 4in. to 6in. long, scaly below or throughout. fronds 12in. to 18in. long, 2in. to 4in. broad; pinnæ numerous, sub-sessile, usually close, 1in. to 2in. long, about 1/2in. broad, ovate-rhomboidal, falcate, acute, spinoso-serrated, the upper base auricled, the lower one truncate. sori in two rows. India, widely distributed. Stove species. SYNS. A. ocellatum, Polystichum auriculatum.

=A. a. lentum= (pliant). Pinnæ cut into oblong mucronate lobes about half-way down to the rachis, the auricle sometimes quite free.

=A. a. marginatum= (margined).* A variety with more coriaceous texture; upper edge of the pinnæ slightly lobed.

=A. capense= (Cape).* sti. scattered, 1ft. to 2ft. long, densely scaly below. fronds 1ft. to 3ft. long, 12in. to 18in. broad, sub-deltoid; lowest pinnæ the largest, 6in. to 9in. long, 3in. to 4in. broad; pinnules and segments lanceolate, the latter bluntly lobed. sori very large and copious. South America, New Zealand, Cape Colony, Natal, &c. Greenhouse species. SYNS. A. coriaceum, Polystichum capense.

=A. confertum= (compressed). Synonymous with A. meniscioides.

=A. coriaceum= (leathery). Synonymous with A. capense.

=A. falcatum= (hooked).* sti. tufted, 6in. to 12in. long, densely scaly below. fronds 1ft. to 2ft. long, 6in. to 9in. broad, simply pinnate; pinnæ numerous, the lower stalked, ovate-acuminate, falcate, 3in. to 5in. long, 1in. to 2in. broad; edge entire or slightly undulated, the upper side narrowed suddenly, sometimes auricled, the lower rounded or obliquely truncate at the base. sori small, copious, scattered. Japan, China, Himalayas, &c. SYN. Cyrtomium falcatum.

=A. f. caryotideum= (Caryota-like) has pinnæ sometimes larger, sharply toothed, slightly lobed, sometimes auricled on both sides. SYN. Cyrtomium caryotideum.

=A. f. Fortunei= (Fortune's).* This differs from the type in having pinnæ narrower and more opaque. All are most useful house ferns, and quite hardy in many parts of the country. SYN. Cyrtomium Fortunei.

=A. falcinellum= (finely-hooked).* sti. tufted, 4in. to 8in. long, densely scaly. fronds 9in. to 18in. long, 3in. to 6in. broad; central pinnæ 2in. to 3in. long, 1/4in. broad; point acute; edge finely serrated; the upper side bluntly auricled, the lower obliquely truncate at the base. sori in two long rows. Madeira. Greenhouse species. SYN. Polystichum falcinellum.

=A. flexum= (bending). rhiz. stout, wide-creeping. sti. scattered, 1ft. long, scaly. fronds 2ft. to 3ft. long, 9in. to 12in. broad; lower pinnæ lanceolate-deltoid, 4in. to 6in. long, 2in. to 4in. broad; pinnules lanceolate-deltoid, cut down to the rachis below into oblong bluntly-lobed segments. sori large, in two rows, copious. Juan Fernandez. Stove species. SYN. Polystichum flexum.

=A. fœniculaceum= (Fennel-leaved).* rhiz. creeping. sti. scattered, 6in. to 12in. long, densely scaly below. fronds 1ft. to 2ft. long, and 9in. to 12in. broad, lanceolate-deltoid, four to five pinnatifid; lower pinnæ 6in. to 8in. long, 3in. to 4in. broad; ultimate divisions linear, awned, with a firm texture. sori solitary. Greenhouse species. Sikkim, 7,000ft. to 10,000ft. SYN. Polystichum fœniculaceum.

=A. frondosum= (leafy). sti. scattered, 1ft. to 2ft. long, densely scaly below. fronds 18in. to 24in. long, 1ft. or more broad, sub-deltoid; lower pinnæ much the largest, long stalked; pinnules lanceolate; segments very unequal sided, pinnatifid, with rounded mucronate lobes, obliquely truncate at the base below. sori large, copious. Madeira. Greenhouse species. SYN. Polystichum frondosum.

=A. Hookeri= (Hooker's). sti. 1ft. or more long, naked. fronds 2ft. to 3ft. long; pinnæ 6in. to 8in. long, 1in. broad, cut down to a broadly-winged rachis into nearly close, spreading, entire, linear-oblong lobes 1/8in. broad. sori nearer the edge than the midrib. Malay Archipelago. Stove species. SYNS. A. nephrodioides and Cyclodium Hookeri.

=A. laserpitiifolium= (Laserpitium-leaved).* sti. 4in. to 6in. long, stramineous, scaly at base. fronds 12in. to 18in. long, 6in. to 9in. broad, ovate-deltoid, tripinnate; lower pinnæ the largest, with pinnules on the lower side prolonged, lanceolate, imbricated with small, distinct, bluntly-lobed segments. sori in two rows, very copious. Japan. A very desirable greenhouse species. SYNS. Lastrea Standishii (of gardens) and Polystichum laserpitiifolium.

=A. lepidocaulon= (scaly-stemmed). sti. tufted, 6in. to 9in. long, densely clothed with large cordate scales. fronds 1ft. or more long, 4in. to 6in. broad, sometimes elongated and rooting at the point: pinnæ 2in. to 3in. long, 1/2in. to 3/4in. broad, lanceolate-falcate, the two sides unequal, the upper one auricled at the base. sori principally in two rows, near the midrib. Japan. Greenhouse species. SYN. Polystichum lepidocaulon.

=A. Lonchitis= (spar-like).* The Holly Fern. sti. densely tufted, 1in. to 4in. long, scaly at base. fronds 1ft. to 2ft. long, 1in. to 3in. broad, pinnate throughout; pinnæ 1/2in. to 1-1/2in. long, 1/4in. to 1/2in. broad, ovate-rhomboidal, sub-falcate, the two sides unequal, point mucronate, edge spinuloso-serrated, the upper side sharply auricled at the base, the lower obliquely truncate. Britain, &c. A very widely-spread hardy species. SYN. Polystichum Lonchitis.

=A. meniscioides= (Meniscium-like). sti. 1ft. to 2ft. long, scaly below. fronds 2ft. to 3ft. long, 1ft. or more broad, pinnate; barren pinnæ sessile, 6in. to 9in. long, 1-1/2in. to 2in. broad, oblong-acuminate, nearly entire; fertile pinnæ much smaller. sori in two close rows between the primary veins. West Indies, &c. Stove species. SYNS. A. confertum and Cyclodium meniscioides.

=A. mohrioides= (Mohria-like). sti. tufted, 2in. to 6in. long, more or less densely scaly. fronds 6in. to 12in. long, 2in. to 3in. broad, bipinnate; pinnæ numerous, frequently imbricated, lanceolate, cut down below into slightly toothed, oblong-rhomboidal pinnules. sori copious. Patagonia and the Cordilleras of Chili. Greenhouse species. SYN. Polystichum mohrioides.

=A. mucronatum= (mucronated).* sti. tufted, 2in. to 4in. long, densely scaly. fronds 12in. to 18in. long, 1-1/2in. to 2in. broad, pinnate throughout; pinnæ very numerous, often imbricated, 3/4in. to 1in. long, 1/4in. to broad, sub-rhomboidal, unequal-sided, mucronate, sub-entire, distinctly auricled at the upper base. sori in a long row on each side the midrib. West Indies. Stove or greenhouse species. SYN. Polystichum mucronatum.

=A. munitum= (armed).* sti. tufted, 4in. to 9in. long, densely scaly. fronds 1ft. to 2ft. long, 4in. to 8in. broad; pinnæ close, 2in. to 4in. long, about 1/2in. broad, acuminate, finely spinulose and serrated throughout, the upper side auricled, and the lower obliquely truncate at the base. sori in two rows near the edge. California, &c. Hardy; very fine. SYN. Polystichum munitum.

=A. nephrodioides= (Nephrodium-like). Synonymous with A. Hookeri.

=A. ocellatum= (spotted). Synonymous with A. auriculatum.

=A. pungens= (stinging). rhiz. stout. sti. scattered, 1ft. long, scaly below only. fronds 2ft. to 3ft. long, 9in. to 12in. broad; lower pinnæ 4in. to 6in. long, 2in. to 3in. broad; pinnules ovate-rhomboidal, unequal-sided, often deeply pinnatifid. sori principally in two rows near the midrib. Cape Colony. Greenhouse species. SYN. Polystichum pungens.

=A. repandum= (wavy-leaved). sti. 1ft. to 2ft. long, naked. fronds 2ft. or more long, 12in. to 18in. broad, apex deeply pinnatifid, with linear-oblong, slightly sinuated lobes; lower pinnæ four to eight on each side, 6in. to 8in. long, 1-1/4in. to 1-1/2in. broad, acuminate; edge bluntly sinuated, the lowest stalked and forked. sori in two distinct rows near the main vein. Philippines. Stove species.

=A. rhizophyllum= (frond-rooting). sti. tufted, 1in. to 2in. long, slender. fronds 2in. to 6in. long, 3/4in. broad, with the long, narrow upper half of the frond lengthened out and rooting, the lower half cut down to a flattened fibrillose rachis into oblong-rhomboidal sub-entire lobes about 1/2in. broad, 1/4in. deep. sori scattered. Jamaica, 1820. Stove or cool house species. SYN. Polystichum rhizophyllum.

=A. semicordatum= (half-cordate). sti. scattered, 6in. to 12in. long. fronds 2ft. to 3ft. long, 8in. to 12in. broad, simply pinnate; pinnæ spreading, 4in. to 6in. long, 1/2in. to 3/4in. broad, nearly entire, acuminate, cordate or truncate at the base. sori in one to three rows on each side, the inner one close to the midrib. Tropical America, &c. SYN. Polystichum semicordatum.

=A. trapezioides= (Trapezium-like). Synonymous with A. viviparum.

=A. triangulum= (triangular).* sti. tufted, 2in. to 6in. long, base scaly. fronds 1ft. or more long, 1-1/2in. to 2in. broad; pinnæ numerous, sessile, lower ones distant, central ones 3/4in. to 1in. long, about 5/8in. broad, sub-deltoid, lower side obliquely truncate; apex mucronate, edge sub-entire or slightly lobed, with blunt or spinose teeth, one or both sides auricled at the base. sori principally in two rows near the edge. West Indies. Stove or greenhouse species. SYN. Polystichum triangulum.

=A. trifoliatum= (three-leaved). sti. tufted, 1ft. or more long, base only scaly. fronds 12in. to 18in. long, 6in. to 12in. broad, with a large ovate-acuminate terminal pinna, narrowed or forked at the base, and one or two lateral ones on each side, the lowest mostly forked. sori in rows near the main veins. Tropical America. Stove species.

=A. t. heracleifolium= (Heracleum-leaved). A form with pinnæ pinnatifid on both sides at the base.

=A. tripteron= (three-winged). sti. 6in. to 9in. long, densely scaly at base. fronds 12in. to 18in. long, with a large terminal and two small spreading lateral pinnæ at the base of it, the former 2-1/2 in. to 3in. broad, with very numerous spreading pinnules on each side, 1-1/2in. long, about 1/2in. broad, unequal sided, acute, deeply inciso-pinnatifid, the lower lobes again toothed; lateral pinnæ 3in. to 5in. long, 1-1/2in. to 2in. broad. sori principally in two rows midway between midrib and edge. Japan. Greenhouse species. SYN. Polystichum tripteron.

=A. varium= (variable).* rhiz. sub-creeping. sti. 6in. to 12in. long, densely fibrillose below. fronds 12in. to 18in. long, 9in. to 12in. broad, lanceolate-deltoid; lower pinnæ much the largest, sub-deltoid, unequal sided, 4in. to 6in. long, 3in. to 4in. broad; pinnules lanceolate, imbricated, with oblong, blunt, slightly toothed segments. sori principally in two rows near the midrib. Japan. Greenhouse species. SYNS. Lastrea varia and Polystichum varium. It is frequently met with in gardens under the former name.

=A. viviparum= (bud-producing). sti. tufted, 4in. to 6in. long, scaly at the base. fronds 12in. to 18in. long, 4in. to 6in. broad; pinnæ numerous, nearly lanceolate, the central ones 2in. to 3in. long, about 1/2in. broad, mucronate, sometimes bud-bearing, the edge more or less deeply lobed, in the lower part sometimes quite down to the rachis, the upper side auricled. sori in two or four rows. West Indies. Stove or greenhouse species. SYNS. A. trapezioides and Polystichum viviparum.

=ASPLENIUM= (from a, not, and splen, spleen; referring to the medicinal properties formerly attributed to the genus). Spleenwort. ORD. Filices. Including Anisogonium, Athyrium, Ceterach, Cænopteris, Darea, Diplazium, Hemidictyum, Neottopteris. A very large and widely-spread genus, including species suitable for the stove, temperate, and hardy ferneries. Sori dorsal or submarginal, linear or oblong. Involucre similar in shape, straight or occasionally curved, single or double, plane or tumid, bursting along the outer edge. The tropical species should be grown in a compost of peat, loam, and sand; the hardy sorts in a mixture of fibrous peat and sand. Good drainage is at all times required. For general culture, see =Ferns=.

=A. abscissum= (clipped). sti. tufted, 4in. to 8in. long. fronds 6in. to 12in. long, 3in. to 4in. broad, sometimes proliferous at the apex, with twelve to twenty horizontal pinnæ on each side, which are 1-1/2in. to 2in. long, about 1/2in. broad, bluntish; edge inciso-crenate, the upper one narrowed suddenly at the base, the lower one obliquely truncate. sori short, in two regular rows, falling short of both midrib and edge. Tropical America. Stove species. SYN. A. firmum.

=A. acuminatum= (taper-pointed).* sti. 6in. to 9in. long. fronds 1ft. to 2ft. long, 9in. to 12in. broad, with very numerous close-placed lanceolate-oblong pinnæ on both sides, which are 4in. to 6in. long, 1-1/2in. to 2in. broad; pinnules numerous, unequal-sided, lanceolate, acuminate; edges sharply toothed, the lower base obliquely truncate. sori in two rows in the upper part, of the pinnules, often diplazioid. Sandwich Islands. Greenhouse species. SYN. A. polyphyllum.

=A. Adiantum-nigrum= (Black Spleenwort). sti. tufted, 6in. to 9in. long. fronds 6in. to 12in. long, 4in. to 6in. broad sub-deltoid; lower pinnæ deltoid, 2in. to 3in. long, 1-1/2in. to 2in. broad; all the pinnæ pinnate. sori copious, at last often occupying the whole under surface of the segments. Great Britain. World-wide in its distribution. Hardy. A. solidum, from Cape Colony, is supposed to be a mere form of this species. There are several varieties the best of which are described below. See Fig. 168.

=A. A.-n. acutum= (acute). fronds 9in. to 15in. long, deltoid, tripinnate; ultimate segments linear, and very acute. Ireland. A copiously divided and very elegant variety. Habit more graceful than the type.

=A. A.-n. grandiceps= (large-crested). fronds 6in. to 12in. long; pinnæ comparatively short, and slightly crested; apex freely divided, and expanded into a broad crest, which gives the frond a very graceful contour. Frame or greenhouse variety. See Fig. 169.

=A. A-n. oxyphyllum= (sharp-leaved). fronds 4in. to 6in. long, ovate-lanceolate; ultimate segments narrow and very acute. A very pretty little variety.

=A. affine= (related). sti. 6in. to 12in. long. fronds 12in to 18in. long, 6in. to 12in. broad, bipinnate, with numerous pinnæ on each side, the lower ones lanceolate-rhomboidal; pinnules rhomboidal, inciso-serrate. sori copious, linear. Mascaren Islands, &c. Stove or warm greenhouse species. SYN. A. spathulinum.

=A. alatum= (winged).* sti. 4in. to 6in, long, slender, the upper part and the rachis, winged. fronds 1ft. to 1-1/2ft. long, 3in. to 4in. broad, with twelve to twenty horizontal sessile pinnæ on each side, which are 1in. to 1-1/2in. long, and about 1/2in. broad, bluntish; edge uniformly inciso-crenate, the base nearly equal on both sides. sori distant, not reaching either the midrib or edge. West Indies, &c. A very elegant stove species.

=A. alismæfolium= (Alisma-leaved). sti. 2in. to 6in. long. fronds varying in shape, from simple oblong-lanceolate, 6in. to 9in. long, 2in. to 3in. broad; apex acuminate; edges entire, to ternate or pinnate, with a large terminal and three pairs of lateral pinnæ, each like the entire frond of the simple state; texture coriaceous. Isle of Luzon. Stove species. SYN. Anisogonium alismæfolium.

=A. alternans= (alternated). sti. tufted, 1in. to 2in. long. fronds 6in. to 8in. long, 1in. to 1-1/2in. broad, lanceolate-oblong, cut down into numerous bluntly-rounded lobes on each side, which reach very nearly down to the rachis, the lower gradually reduced. sori copious. N. W. Himalayas. Greenhouse species. SYN. A. Dalhousiæ.

=A. alternifolium= (alternate-leaved). Synonymous with A. germanicum.

=A. angustifolium= (narrow-leaved).* sti. tufted, about 1ft. long. fronds 18in. to 24in. long, 4in. to 6in. broad, simply pinnate, lanceolate-oblong, flaccid, with twenty to thirty sub-sessile pinnæ on each side, sterile ones largest, 2in. to 3in. long, 1/2in. broad, acuminate; edge obscurely-crenate, base rounded and equal on both sides; fertile pinnæ narrower and more distant. sori very close and regular, extending from the midrib nearly to the edge. Canada, &c. Greenhouse species.

=A. anisophyllum= (unequal-leaved). sti. tufted, 6in. to 12in. long. fronds 1ft. to 2ft. long, 6in. to 9in. broad, oblong-lanceolate, simple pinnate, with ten to sixteen sub-sessile pinnæ on each side which are 3in. to 5in. long, about 1in. broad, acuminated, crenate, the two sides unequal, the upper one narrowed suddenly, the lower one obliquely truncate at the base. sori distant, elliptical, reaching half-way from the edge to the margin. Cape Colony, &c. Greenhouse species.

=A. apicidens= (apex-toothed). A variety of A. Vieillardii.

=A. arborescens= (tree-like). cau. oblique. sti. 1ft. to 2ft. long. fronds 3ft. to 4ft. long, 2ft. to 3ft. broad, deltoid, tripinnatifid, with numerous pinnæ, the lower ones 12in. to 18in. long, 4in. to 6in. broad; pinnules 3in. long, about 1/2in. wide, acuminate, edge cut two-thirds of the way down to the rachis into nearly entire lobes, 1/4in. deep, 1/8in. broad. Lower sori 1/8in. long. Mauritius, &c., 1826. Stove species. SYN. Diplazium arborescens.

=A. Arnottii= (Arnott's). sti. smooth, angular. fronds ample, tripinnatifid; lower pinnæ 9in. to 12in. long, 4in. to 6in. broad; pinnules 3in. to 4in. long, 1in. or more broad, cut down below to a distinctly winged rachis into deeply crenate, blunt, oblong lobes, 1/2in. deep, 1/4in. broad. sori copious, nearly all diplazioid, and filling up when mature nearly the whole surface of the lobes. Sandwich Islands, 1877. Greenhouse species. SYNS. A. diplazioides and Diplazium Arnottii.

=A. aspidioides= (Aspidium-like). sti. tufted, 6in. to 12in. long. fronds 1ft. to 2ft. long, 8in. to 12in. broad, ovate-deltoid, tripinnatifid; lower pinnæ 6in. to 8in. long, lanceolate-deltoid; pinnules lanceolate, cut down below nearly to the rachis into inciso-pinnatifid ovate segments, two lines broad. sori copious, oblong, the lower ones curved. Tropical America, &c. Greenhouse species. SYN. A. multisectum.

=A. attenuatum= (attenuated). sti. tufted, 3in. to 4in. long. fronds simple, linear-lanceolate, about 1ft. long, about 1/2in. broad, narrowed upwards very gradually, sometimes proliferous at the point, the margin toothed; the lower third also lobed; the lowest roundish, lobes reaching down nearly or quite to the rachis. sori reaching nearly to the edge. Queensland, &c. Greenhouse species.

=A. aureum= (golden). A variety of A. Ceterach.

=A. auriculatum= (auriculated).* sti. tufted, 4in. to 8in. long. fronds 12in. to 18in. long, 4in. to 6in. broad, simply pinnate, lanceolate-oblong, with ten to twenty-stalked horizontal pinnæ on each side, which are 2in. to 4in. long, 3/4in. to 1in. broad, lanceolate, often sub-falcate; edge deeply crenate, the two sides unequal, the upper one with a cordate auricle, the lower one obliquely truncate. sori distant, not reaching either the midrib or edge. Tropical America, 1820. Stove species.

=A. auritum= (eared). sti. tufted, 4in. to 8in. long. fronds 6in. to 12in. long, 2in. to 4in. broad, simply pinnate, with ten to fifteen stalked horizontal pinnæ on each side, which are 2in. to 3in. long, and about 1/2in. broad, acute or bluntish; edge sharply toothed or often lobed, especially on the upper side towards the base. sori in two broad rather oblique rows. Tropical America. Stove species.

=A. australasicum= (Australian). A variety of A. Nidus.

=A. Baptistii= (Baptist's).* sti. 6in. to 8in. long. fronds 1ft. long, bipinnate, broadly ovate; pinnæ stipitate, the lower about 5in. long, with four narrow stipitate linear-toothed pinnules, 2in. long, and a terminal lobe, 3-1/2in. long, 1/4in. broad, furnished with distinct linear marginal teeth, pointing forwards, and terminating in a long attenuated point, which is toothed nearly to the end. sori linear-oblong, straight, parallel with, and close to, the midrib. South Sea Islands, 1879. A very handsome stove species.

=A. Belangeri= (Belanger's).* sti. tufted, 4in. to 8in. long. fronds 12in. to 18in. long, 2in. to 3in. broad, bipinnate; pinnæ numerous, 1in. to 1-1/2in. long, 1/2in. broad, rounded at the point, truncate at the base on the lower side; pinnules linear, erecto-patent, half line broad; one vein and sorus to each segment, the latter marginal. Malayan Peninsula. Stove species. SYNS. A. Veitchianum, Darea, Belangeri, &c.

=A. bipartitum= (twice-partite). sti. tufted, 3in. to 6in. long. fronds 6in. to 8in. long, 2in. to 3in. broad, bipinnate, with about ten to fifteen stalked pinnæ on each side, which are 1in. to 1-1/2in. long, 1/2in. to 3/4in. broad, bluntish, cut down at the base on the upper side into one distinctly-stalked cuneate pinnule, sometimes into two or three, the outer edge inciso-crenate, the base on the lower side obliquely truncate. sori in two regular rows, reaching nearly to the edge. Mascaren Isles. Stove species.

=A. bisectum= (bisected).* sti. tufted, 4in. to 6in. long. fronds 12in. to 18in. long, 4in. to 6in. broad, bipinnatifid, with twenty to thirty horizontal pinnæ on each side, which are 2in. to 3in. long, 1/4in. broad, with a very long, narrow, deeply inciso-pinnatifid upper portion, the base on the upper side narrowed suddenly, on the lower obliquely truncate. sori almost all in two parallel rows close to the midrib. West Indies, &c. Stove species.

=A. brachypteron= (broadly-winged). sti. tufted, 2in. to 4in. long. fronds 4in. to 6in. long, 1in. to 1-1/2in. broad, bipinnate, with twelve to twenty-four horizontal pinnæ on each side, of which from half to nearly the whole of the lower side is cut away, the largest 1/2in. to 5/8in. long, cut down to the rachis into simple or forked linear pinnules, 1in. to 1-1/2in. long. sori solitary, often quite marginal. Madagascar, &c. Stove species. SYN. Darea brachypteron.

=A. brevisorum= (shortly-soriate). sti. 12in. to 18in. long. fronds 2ft. to 3ft. long, 9in. to 18in. broad, tripinnate; lower pinnæ 1ft. or more long; pinnules lanceolate, distant, 2in. to 3in. long, and 1-1/2in. broad; segments lanceolate, 3/4in. long, two lines broad, deeply and sharply toothed. sori small, six to twelve to a segment, in two rows near the midrib, the lower ones curved, often double. Jamaica, &c. Stove species. SYN. Athyrium brevisorum.

=A. bulbiferum= (bulb-bearing). sti. tufted, 6in. to 12in. long. fronds 1ft. to 2ft. long, 8in. to 12in. broad, oblong-deltoid, with numerous horizontal pinnæ on each side, which are often proliferous from the upper surface, the largest 4in. to 8in. long, 1-1/2in. to 2in. broad; pinnules lanceolate-deltoid, slightly toothed. sori oblong, when mature often filling the whole breadth of the segments. New Zealand, &c., very widely distributed. Greenhouse species.

=A. b. Fabianum= (Fabia's). Lower segments deeply pinnatifid, with narrow divisions and sub-marginal sori. SYN. A. Fabianum.

=A. b. laxum= (loose). Habit more slender; segments narrow, so that the sori are often as if marginal.

=A. caudatum= (tailed). Probably a form of A. falcatum, but having the sori more confined to the centre of the pinnæ, being often restricted to two parallel rows close to the rachis. Polynesia, &c. Greenhouse species.

=A. Ceterach.=* Scale or Scaly Fern. sti. densely tufted, 1in. to 3in. long, scaly. fronds 4in. to 6in. long, 1/2in to 1in. broad, cut down nearly or quite to the rachis into alternate, blunt, sub-entire, broadly-oblong or roundish pinnæ, with a rounded sinus between them; upper surface naked, lower densely clothed with deep brown membranous scales. sori linear oblique. Britain, throughout Europe, Northern Asia, &c. This is a variable species, but the forms do not remain constant under cultivation. It should be firmly planted in a vertical chink of the rockery in loam, lime rubbish, rock chippings, and sand, and be watered freely during the summer. SYN. Ceterach officinarum. See Fig. 170.

=A. C. aureum= (golden).* A large variety, producing fronds from 9in. to 15in. long, 1-1/2in. to 3in. broad, and pinnæ more oblong than the type; scales toothed. Canaries and Madeira. This is a charming fern, requiring greenhouse treatment. SYN. Ceterach aureum.

=A. cicutarium= (Cicuta-leaved).* sti. tufted, 4in. to 8in. long. fronds 6in. to 15in. long, 4in. to 6in. broad, tripinnate, with ten to fifteen horizontal pinnæ on each side, the lower ones 2in. to 3in. long, 1in. broad, cut down to the rachis into numerous ovate-rhomboidal pinnules, which are 3/8in. to 1/2in. long, 1/4in. broad, obliquely-truncate on the lower side; segments once or twice cleft at the apex. sori principally in two rows along the pinnules. Tropical America, &c. Stove species.

=A. Colensoi= (Colenso's). sti. tufted, 3in. to 4in. long. fronds 6in. to 9in. long, 2in. to 4in. broad, tripinnatifid, with numerous rather rigid erecto-patent pinnæ, the lower on stalks 1/4in. to 1/2in. long; lower pinnules spreading, deeply inciso-pinnatifid, with linear segments. sori oblong, solitary. New Zealand. A beautiful greenhouse species. SYN. A. Hookerianum.

=A. compressum= (compressed). sti. tufted, 6in. to 8in. long. fronds 2ft. to 3ft. long, 8in. to 12in. broad, simply pinnate, lanceolate-oblong, with ten to twenty sessile pinnæ on each side, which are 4in. to 6in. long, about 1in. broad, acute or bluntish at the point, edge slightly dentate, the upper ones decurrent at the base upon the stout fleshy compressed rachis, the upper side narrowed suddenly at about a right angle, the lower one obliquely truncate. sori broad, distant, not reaching either the midrib or edge. St. Helena. Stove or greenhouse species.

=A. contiguum= (contiguous). sti. tufted, 6in. to 9in. long. fronds 12in. to 18in. long, 4in. to 6in. broad, with twenty to thirty horizontal sub-falcate pinnæ on each side, which are acuminated at the apex; edge more or less serrated, the base narrowed suddenly, and sometimes auricled on the upper, obliquely truncate in a curve on the lower side. sori close, copious, falling considerably short of the margin. Sandwich Isles. Greenhouse species.

=A. crenatum= (crenated).* sti. 6in. to 12in. long, scattered. fronds 9in. to 15in. each way, deltoid, tri- or quadripinnate, with nine to twelve pinnæ on each side, the lowest much the largest, 6in. to 9in. long, 1-1/2in. to 2in. broad; pinnules lanceolate, cut down to the rachis except towards the point on each side into four to six blunt oblong segments, two lines long, one line broad, which are bluntly toothed. sori two to six to a segment, oblong, usually nearly straight, often double. Scandinavia, &c. Hardy species.

=A. cultrifolium= (hook-leaved).* sti. 4in. to 6in. long. fronds 6in. to 12in. long, 4in. to 6in. broad, bipinnate, deltoid-ovate, with a lobed terminal point and six to ten pinnæ on each side, which are 3in. to 4in. long, 1/2in. to 3/4in. broad, acute; edge broadly toothed, sometimes lobed below nearly or quite to the rachis, the base nearly at a right angle on the upper, but obliquely truncate on the lower side. sori falling short both of the edge and midrib. West Indies, 1820. Stove species. SYN. Diplazium cultrifolium.

=A. cuneatum= (wedge-shaped). sti. tufted, 6in. to 9in. long. fronds 6in. to 15in. long, 6in. to 9in. broad, tripinnatifid, narrow-deltoid, with numerous spreading pinnæ on each side, the lower 3in. to 4in. long, 1in. to 1-1/2in. broad, lanceolate-deltoid, cut down to the rachis into several distinct ovate-cuneate pinnules, which are dentate and cut down in the lower part nearly or quite to the rachis. sori linear, sub-flabellate. West Indies, and widely distributed in both hemispheres, 1832. A very handsome stove species.

=A. Dalhousiæ= (Dalhouse's). Synonymous with A. alternans.

=A. decussatum= (decussate). sti. 1ft. to 2ft. long. fronds 2ft. to 4ft. long, simply pinnate, with numerous pinnæ on each side, which are 6in. to 12in. long, 1in. to 2in. broad, often proliferous in the axils; edge nearly entire. sori reaching nearly to the edge, and copiously double. Polynesian and Malayan Islands, &c. Stove species. SYN. Anisogonium decussatum.

=A. dentatum= (dentated).* sti. tufted, 2in. to 6in. long. fertile fronds 2in. to 3in. long, 1in. broad, with six to eight pairs of stalked, sub-opposite pinnæ, which are 1/2in. broad, 3/8in. deep, oblong-rhomboidal, the lower side at the base truncate in a curve, the outer edge irregularly crenate. sterile fronds smaller, on shorter stalks. sori copious, in two parallel rows. West Indies, &c., 1820. A pretty little greenhouse species.

=A. dimidiatum= (unequal-sided).* sti. tufted, 6in. to 12in. long. fronds 6in. to 15in. long, 4in. to 6in. broad, deltoid, simply pinnate, with six to nine opposite pairs of pinnæ, which are 2in. to 3in. long, 3/4in. to 1in. broad, acuminated, sharply serrated. sori radiant, narrow, long linear. Tropical America. Stove species.

=A. dimorphum= (two-formed).* sti. tufted, 6in. to 12in. long. fronds 2ft. to 3ft. long, 12in. to 15in. broad, ovate-deltoid, sterile and fertile ones different or combined; lower pinnæ ovate-deltoid, 6in. to 8in. long, 2in. broad, bluntly toothed, and the base on the lower side obliquely truncate; fertile pinnæ the same size, but with very narrow simple or forked pinnules. sori linear, solitary, marginal. Norfolk Island. One of the handsomest warm greenhouse species. SYNS. A. diversifolium (of gardens), and Darea dimorpha.

=A. diplazioides= (Diplazium-like). A synonym of A. Arnottii.

=A. diversifolium= (diverse-leaved). A garden synonym of A. dimorphum.

=A. diversifolium= (diverse-leaved). Synonymous with A. maximum.

=A. ebeneum= (ebony-stalked).* sti. tufted, 3in. to 6in. long. fronds 12in. to 18in. long, 2in. to 3in. broad, linear-lanceolate, with twenty to forty sessile pinnæ on each side, which are about 1in. long, 1/8in. broad; point acute or bluntish; edge faintly serrate; base hastately auricled, often cordate. sori ten to twelve on each side, oblong, short. Canada, &c., widely distributed, 1779. Greenhouse species. A. ebenoides is very like this, but the pinnæ are not cut down to the rachis, and the frond has an elongated point, which is only sinuated with a single row of sori on each side.

=A. erectum= (erect). Synonymous with A. lunulatum.

=A. erosum= (bitten). sti. tufted, 6in. to 9in. long. fronds 6in. to 12in. long, 4in. to 8in. broad, deltoid, with nine to fifteen pinnæ on each side, which are 3in. to 4in. long, 1/2in. to 3/4in. broad, the edge slightly lobed and crenato-dentate, the point acuminate, the two sides unequal. sori falling short of the edge. West Indies. Stove species.

=A. esculentum= (edible).* cau. sub-arborescent. sti. 1ft. to 2ft. long. fronds 4ft. to 6ft. long, pinnate or bipinnate; lower pinnæ 12in. to 18in. long, 6in. to 8in. broad; pinnules 3in. to 6in. long, about 1in. broad, acuminate; edge more or less deeply lobed; base narrowed suddenly, often auricled; lines of sori often on all the lateral veinlets. India, &c., 1822. Stove species. SYN. Anisogonium esculentum.

=A. extensum= (extended). sti. tufted, 4in. to 6in. long. fronds 12in. to 24in. long, about 1in. broad, with twenty to forty sessile pinnæ on each side, which are 1/2in. long, 1/4in. to 3/8in. deep, blunt and entire, the upper side rather the broadest and often cordate, the lower merely rounded at the base. sori linear-oblong, two or three on each side of the midrib. Andes of Columbia and Peru. A very rare greenhouse species, allied to our native A. Trichomanes.

=A. Fabianum= (Fabia's). Synonymous with A. bulbiferum Fabianum.

=A. falcatum= (hooked).* sti. tufted, 6in. to 9in. long. fronds 6in. to 18in. long, 4in. to 6in. broad, lanceolate, with six to twenty stalked, nearly horizontal pinnæ on each side, which are 2in. to 3in. long, 1/2in. to 1in. broad, acuminated, the edges lobed often one-third of the way down, and the lobes sharply toothed, the two sides unequal, and the lower one at the base obliquely truncate. sori in long irregular lines reaching nearly to the edge. Polynesian Islands, &c., widely distributed. A very elegant greenhouse species.

=A. fejeense= (Fijian).* rhiz. wide-climbing. sti. 6in. long, scaly below. fronds 18in. to 24in. long, 1in. to 1-1/2in. broad, lanceolate, caudate, or acuminate at the apex, and often proliferous, narrowed below to a truncate base, the margin nearly entire. sori reaching from the midrib nearly to the edges. Fiji, Samoa. &c. Stove species.

=A. Fernandesianum= (Juan Fernandez). A variety of A. lunulatum.

=A. Filix-fœmina= (Lady Fern).* sti. tufted, 6in. to 12in. long. fronds 1ft. to 3ft. long, 6in. to 12in. broad, oblong-lanceolate, with numerous pinnate pinnæ, the lower ones spreading, lanceolate, 3in. to 6in. long, 1in. to 1-1/2in. broad; pinnules deeply inciso-pinnatifid. sori linear-oblong, the lower ones often curved. Britain, and world-wide in its distribution. SYN. Athyrium Filix-fœmina. This handsome deciduous species has a great number of varieties, the most important of which are described below:

=A. F.-f. acrocladon= (summit-branched).* fronds 9in. to 15in. long, slender, bi- or tripinnate, the lower part very narrow, with the apices of the pinnæ sometimes crested; upper portion of the frond freely branched, divisions narrow and crested, the whole forming a broad head.

=A. F.-f. acuminatum= (taper-pointed).* fronds 9in. to 12in. long, lanceolate-acuminate in outline, with closely set pinnæ, which are similarly characterised, and particularly tapering at the apices.

=A. F.-f. apiculatum= (apiculate).* fronds 6in. to 15in. long, 2in. to 4in. broad, lanceolate-acuminate in outline, with variously furcate apices; pinnæ closely set with distinctly acuminated apices, and small roundish obtuse serrated pinnules.

=A. F.-f. Applebyanum= (Appleby's).* fronds narrow, 12in. to 24in. long, with short blunt pinnæ, while the extremities are dilated into a broad furcated crest, which is very striking upon such a narrow frond.

=A. F.-f. Barnesii= (Barnes's).* fronds 9in. to 15in. long, 3in. to 4in. wide, lanceolate in outline, abrupt at the top, bipinnate; pinnæ alternate, closely set, lanceolate, acutely pointed, with densely set, narrow, acutely serrate pinnules, with a very membranous texture.

=A. F.-f. calothrix= (beautiful-hair).* fronds 9in. to 15in. long, copiously divided into exquisitely fine segments, so that the fronds present a very light and delicate appearance.

=A. F.-f. contortum= (contorted).* fronds very diversified, the various pinnæ occasionally combining the characters of the varieties Applebyanum and Victoriæ.

=A. F.-f. coronatum= (coronate).* fronds 6in. to 12in. long, 2in. wide; pinnæ distinctly forked, sometimes slightly crested at the apices; the upper extremity of the frond copiously forked, and by the ramification of the divisions a broad crest is formed, about 3in. to 4in. across.

=A. F.-f. corymbiferum= (corymbose).* fronds 12in. to 18in. long, 4in. to 7in. broad, lanceolate-acuminate in general outline; pinnæ closely set, usually forked and crested at the apices, while the extremities of the fronds are dilated into broad crests, nearly or quite as wide at the broadest portion of the frond.

=A. F.-f. crispum= (crispy or curled).* fronds 6in. long, densely set with very finely divided pinnæ, which are thickly curled, presenting a crispy appearance.

=A. F.-f. dissectum= (dissected).* fronds 6in. to 12in. long, ovate or broadly lanceolate in form, with irregular and unequal pinnæ; the pinnules also differ very much, and are deeply cut, nearly down to the rachises.

=A. F.-f. Elworthii= (Elworth's).* fronds 12in. to 20in. long, lanceolate, tripinnate, terminated with a very dense crest, from 4in. to 6in. across; pinnæ and frequently the pinnules also more or less forked and crested.

=A. F.-f. Fieldiæ= (Field's).* fronds 12in. to 20in. long, narrow, with regular or variously-forked divided pinnæ, sometimes arranged crosswise, with a very graceful disposition.

=A. F.-f. Friselliæ= (Frisell's).* fronds pendent, sometimes 2ft. long, rarely exceeding 1in. wide, bi- or tripinnate; pinnæ alternate, imbricated, flabellate, with the margins of the pinnules or ultimate divisions dentated.

=A. F.-f. grandiceps= (large-crested).* fronds 9in. to 15in. long, lanceolate in outline, copiously forked both at the extremities of the pinnæ and frond. The latter is furnished with a very large globose crest, which causes the frond to present a beautifully arched appearance.

=A. F-f. Grantæ= (Grant's).* fronds 9in. to 12in. long, lanceolate, or broadly so, very thickly set with pinnæ, copiously divided, with the apices of the latter turned up, so that the plant has a crisp or bristly appearance.

=A. F.-f. Jonesii= (Jones's).* fronds 12in. to 18in. long, oblong-lanceolate in outline, slightly acuminate, bipinnate, furnished at the extremities with a small crest; pinnæ alternate, copiously forked and crested at the apices, even having larger crests than the one at the upper extremity of the frond; pinnules narrow, dentate, slightly crested.

=A. F.-f. minimum= (smallest).* fronds 4in. to 6in. long, 1in. wide, lanceolate, bipinnate; pinnules densely set, imbricated, and crispy.

=A. F.-f. Moorei= (Moore's).* fronds 4in. to 8in. long, linear, terminated with a broad tasselled crest, 3in. or more in diameter; pinnæ small, scattered, variously forked, crested, and slender.

=A. F.-f. multifidum= (many-fid).* A very vigorous growing variety, producing fronds as large as those of the type, terminated with large tasselled crests; pinnæ and pinnules narrow, the former furnished with small crested apices. A variety known as nanum much resembles the foregoing, but the crests are more dense, and the fronds are usually not more than half the length.

=A. F.-f. pannosum= (pannose).* fronds 10in. to 20in. long, lanceolate in outline, from 4in. to 6in. in the broadest part, bi- or (rarely) tripinnate; pinnæ thickly set, closely alternated, lanceolate-acuminate in form, with deep cut pinnules, and distinctly but irregularly lobed; the whole frond is frequently tinged with reddish-purple.

=A. F.-f. plumosum= (feathery).* fronds 12in. to 30in. long, 4in. to 10in. broad, broadly lanceolate in outline, tripinnate, beautifully arched; pinnæ of the same form as the frond, copiously divided; pinnules again divided into very fine segments. There are several forms of this charming variety.

=A. F.-f. Pritchardii= (Pritchard's).* fronds 12in. to 30in. long, very narrow, tapering especially towards the apices; pinnæ decussate, imbricate, rather irregular, with the margins of the pinnules dentate. There is also a variety named cristatum, which is finely crested at the apices of the pinnæ, and is particularly striking.

=A. F.-f. ramosa= (branched).* fronds 9in. to 12in. long, the lower portion sparsely set with short irregular pinnæ, sharply cut into finely dentate pinnules; the upper part is divided into two main branches, which are again variously forked, and furnished with short pinnæ, the ultimate divisions furcate and slightly crested.

=A. F.-f. scopæ= (heavily-crested).* fronds 6in. to 16in. long, with a few scattered irregular pinnæ along the main rachis; some of the pinnæ are almost obsolete, while others are an inch long with oblong-dentate pinnules and a heavy terminal crest; the upper portion has several ramifications, each of which is copiously forked and heavily crested, the whole forming a corymbose head 3in. or 4in. in diameter, which gives the plant a pendent habit.

=A. F.-f. sub-lunatum= (half-crescent-shaped).* fronds 9in. to 20in. long, less than 1in. wide, with curious alternated, nearly crescent-shaped, much contracted pinnæ, sparingly divided, arching.

=A. F.-f. Victoriæ= (Victoria's).* fronds long, lanceolate in outline, with the apices crested, as well as those of the pinnæ; the latter are forked at the base, the divisions being divergent, and crossing those of the neighbouring pinnæ. A form named gracilis has narrower fronds, is more compact, and cresting rather thicker. There is also another form named lineare, having very small heavily crested fronds, and an extremely elegant appearance. The foregoing are the most important varieties, but a very comparative few of the total number. Although forms of an essentially hardy species, the greater number--and particularly the rarer sorts--should have a winter protection; or, what is far more preferable and satisfactory, they should be grown in the frame or temperate fernery.

=A. firmum= (firm-textured). Synonymous with A. abscissum.

=A. fissum= (cut).* sti. tufted, 2in. to 6in. long. fronds 2in. to 5in. long, 1in. to 2in. broad, oblong-deltoid, tripinnatifid, with a few distant pinnæ on each side; pinnules flabellato-cuneate, deeply pinnatifid; ultimate segments under half a line broad. sori linear-oblong, when mature occupying the whole breadth of the segments. South Europe. A pretty little frame or greenhouse species.

=A. flabellifolium= (fan-leaved).* sti. tufted, 3in. to 6in. long. fronds procumbent, wide straggling, elongated, and rooting at the apex, 6in. to 12in. long, 3/4in. to 1in. broad, with ten to fifteen sessile flabellate pinnæ on each side, which are 1/4in. to 1/2in. each way, broadly lobed; lobes sharply toothed, the base cut away in a curve on the lower side. sori oblique, irregular, copious. Temperate Australia, &c. Greenhouse species.

=A. f. majus= (greater). This is a larger form, with longer fronds and broader pinnæ.

=A. flaccidum= (relaxed). sti. tufted, 4in. to 8in. long. fronds 1ft. to 3ft. long, 4in. to 8in. broad, often pendent, with numerous lanceolate pinnæ, which are 4in. to 8in. long, and about 1/2in. broad, sometimes rather rigid and recurved, sometimes quite flaccid and drooping, like the main rachis, sometimes deeply pinnatifid, but more often cut down to the thick rachis in oblique or sub-falcate linear lobes. sori in the divided form quite marginal. New Zealand, &c. SYNS. A. odontites and Darea flaccida.

=A. fœniculaceum= (Fennel-like). A variety of A. fragrans.

=A. fontanum= (rock).* sti. tufted, 2in. to 4in. long. fronds 3in. to 6in. long, 1in. to 1-1/2in. broad, oblong-lanceolate; lower pinnæ short, reflexed; central ones horizontal, about 1/2in. long; pinnules stalked, lower ones oblong, deeply inciso-pinnatifid. sori copious, covering nearly the whole under surface of the pinnule. England, &c. Hardy. This requires to be planted in a well-drained chink of the rockery, in rich gritty soil. SYN. A. Halleri. A. refractum is a well-marked variety. See Fig. 171.

=A. formosum= (beautiful). sti. tufted, very short. fronds 12in. to 18in. long, 1in. broad, with twenty to thirty sessile horizontal pinnæ on each side, which are 1/2in. long, one and a-half to two lines deep; upper edge deeply cut, point rather obtuse, lower edge truncate in a straight line. sori linear-oblong, short, oblique, placed one to four on each side of the midrib. Tropical America, &c., 1822. A very elegant stove species.

=A. fragrans= (fragrant).* sti. tufted, 4in. to 8in. long, fronds 6in. to 9in. long, 3in. to 6in. broad, sub-deltoid, tripinnate, with numerous close placed deltoid pinnæ on each side, the lowest 3in. long, 1in. to 1-1/2in. broad; pinnules lanceolate-deltoid; segments sub-spathulate, one line broad, dentate round the outer edge. sori copious. Tropical America, 1793. A. fœniculaceum is a variety with narrowly linear ultimate segments. Both are very handsome stove plants, the latter being especially beautiful.

=A. Franconis= (Franconis).* sti. tufted, 1ft. long. fronds 1ft. to 2ft. long, 9in. to 15in. broad, deltoid, with numerous pinnæ on each side, the lower ones 6in. to 8in. long, much acuminated, cut down in the lower half into distinct pinnules, 1-1/2in. to 2in. long, 1/2in. broad, lanceolate, unequal sided, the edge cut half-way down below into oblong sharply-toothed lobes; the lower side obliquely truncate. sori in parallel rows, not reaching the edge. Mexico, &c. Stove species. SYN. Diplazium Franconis.

=A. furcatum= (forked).* sti. tufted, 4in. to 8in. long, fronds 6in. to 18in. long, 4in. to 6in. broad, with twelve to twenty pinnæ on each side, which are lanceolate-deltoid, 2in. to 3in. long, 3/4in. to 1in. broad, nearly or quite pinnate; pinnules linear-cuneate, sharply serrated on the outer edge. sori linear, distant. Very widely distributed in the tropical and sub-tropical regions of both hemispheres. A most elegant greenhouse species. SYN. A. præmorsum.

=A. germanicum= (German).* sti. densely tufted, 2in. to 4in. long. fronds 2in. to 3in. long, 1/2in. to 1in. broad, lanceolate, cut down to the rachis into a few narrow flabellato-cuneate pinnæ on each side, the lowest of which are again deeply cleft. sori linear, when mature covering the whole breadth, but falling short of the point of the pinnæ. Scotland and Norway to Hungary and Dalmatia. Hardy or frame species. SYN. A. alternifolium.

=A. giganteum= (gigantic). A synonym of A. radicans.

=A. Goringianum pictum= (painted).* A very pretty form of A. macrocarpum; the fronds are from 6in. to 18in. long, pendulous, somewhat lanceolate in form; rachis reddish, with the pinnæ next it on each side variegated, forming a central grey band throughout its entire length. Japan. Greenhouse species, or hardy in sheltered positions.

=A. grandifolium= (large-leaved). sti. 1ft. or more long. fronds 2ft. to 3ft. long, 9in. to 12in. broad, deltoid-lanceolate, the point pinnatifid, with twelve to twenty pinnæ on each side; the lower ones 2in. or more apart, distinctly stalked, 4in. to 6in. long, 1in. to 1-1/2in. broad, acuminate; edge slightly toothed, and sometimes broadly lobed below, the base equally rounded on both sides. sori irregular, falling slightly short of both midrib and edge. Tropical America, 1793. Stove species. SYN. Diplazium grandifolium.

=A. Grevillei= (Greville's). fronds undivided, 12in. to 18in. long, 2in. to 3in. broad, lanceolate-spathulate, narrowed to an acute apex, and suddenly below to a broadly winged stipe, which grows very gradually narrower downwards; the margin entire. sori usually extending within a short distance of the edge. India. Stove species.

=A. Halleri= (Haller's). Synonymous with A. fontanum.

=A. Hemionitis= (Hemionitis).* sti. tufted, 4in. to 8in. long. fronds 4in. to 6in. each way, hastate, with a triangular, acute terminal lobe, and two large, cordate, acute lateral ones, again bluntly or acutely lobed at the base; the basal sinus rounded, 1in. or more deep, and the lobes on each side imbricated over one another and the petiole. sori narrow upon the simple veins. South Europe, &c. A pretty greenhouse species. SYN. A. palmatum.

=A. H. cristatum= (crested).* Similar in frond form and size to the species, but the apices are crested and tasselled. Where variety is sought, this should certainly be grown.

=A. H. multifidum= (much-divided).* fronds quite as broad as long; the main divisions again freely divided or deeply cut, so as to give them a fringed outline. Azores.

=A. heterocarpum= (various-fruited).* sti. scattered, 4in. to 9in. long. fronds 6in. to 15in. long, 1-1/2in. to 2in. broad, narrow-lanceolate, with very numerous close-placed dimidiate pinnæ on each side, which are 3/4in. to 1in. broad, 1/4in. deep; the lower edge quite entire, the upper broadest towards the base, where it is narrowed suddenly, deeply incised throughout. sori one, or rarely two, together in the teeth. Himalayas, and widely distributed in south-eastern Asia. A very lovely stove or greenhouse species.

=A. heterodon= (variously-toothed). Synonymous with A. vulcanicum.

=A. Hookerianum= (Hooker's). Synonymous with A. Colensoi.

=A. incisum= (incised). sti. tufted, 1in. to 3in. long. fronds 6in. to 12in. long, 1-1/2in. to 2in. broad, lanceolate, with numerous pinnæ on each side; lower distant and blunt, central ones 1in. long, 1/2in. broad, lanceolate-deltoid; pinnules ovate-rhomboidal, pinnate, much truncated at the base on the lower side and deeply inciso-pinnatifid. sori linear-oblong, one to each vein. Japan, &c. Greenhouse species.

=A. javanicum= (Javanese). See =Allantodia Brunoniana=.

=A. lanceolatum= (lanceolate).* sti. tufted, 3in. to 4in. long. fronds 6in. to 9in. long, 2in. to 4in. broad; lower pinnæ distant, 1in. to 1-1/2in. long, 1/4in. to 3/8in. broad; pinnules oblong-rhomboidal, sharply toothed, and often broadly lobed below. sori copious, when mature covering nearly the whole under surface. South-west Europe, including southern England, &c. Hardy species.

=A. l. crispatum= (curled).* fronds 4in. to 8in. long, broadly-lanceolate, bipinnate, with the margins of the pinnules involute and sharply toothed, giving them a curled appearance.

=A. l. microdon= (small-toothed).* fronds 4in. to 6in. long, simply pinnate, with deeply lobed pinnæ, the margins of the lobes very finely dentated and toothed. A pretty little gem, well adapted for case culture.

=A. lanceum= (lance-shaped). sti. scattered, 4in. to 6in. long. fronds 6in. to 9in. long, 3/4in. to 1in. broad, attenuated gradually upwards and downwards, the edge entire or slightly undulated. sori linear, irregular, reaching nearly to the edge, but not to the midrib. Himalayas, &c. Greenhouse species. SYN. A. subsinuatum and Diplazium lanceum.

=A. laserpitiifolium= (Laserpitium-leaved).* sti. tufted, 6in. to 12in. long, naked. fronds 1ft. to 4ft. long, 4in. to 18in. broad, deltoid-lanceolate, with numerous pinnæ on each side, 2in. to 9in. long, and from 2in. to 6in. broad, cut down to the rachis into numerous distinct pinnules, the lowest with rhomboidal-cuneate segments. sori short, irregular. Polynesian Islands, North Australia, &c. A very handsome greenhouse species.

=A. laxum= (loose). A variety of A. bulbiferum.

=A. lineatum= (streaked). sti. tufted, 6in. to 9in. long. fronds 1ft. to 2ft. long, 4in. to 8in. broad, oblong-lanceolate, with twenty to thirty pinnæ on each side, which are 3in. to 4in. long, about 1/2in. broad, acuminate, dentate, nearly or quite sessile, the base cuneate. sori very regular, reaching from the midrib nearly to the edge. Mauritius, &c. There are several forms of this species: those with small narrow cuneate pinnules, inequale; those with deeply bifid or pinnatifid pinnules, bifida. Stove species.

=A. longissimum= (longest).* sti. tufted, 3in. to 12in. long. fronds 2ft. to 8ft. long, 4in. to 8in. broad, lanceolate-elongate, pendulous, proliferous, and rooting at the apex, with very numerous pinnæ on each side, which are 2in. to 4in. long, 1/4in. broad, acuminated, the two sides nearly equal, with a distinct central midrib; edge slightly toothed, the base on both sides often auricled. sori numerous, in two regular rows on each side the midrib, and reaching nearly to the edge. Malacca, &c., 1840. A very distinct stove fern for baskets.

=A. lucidum= (clear). A synonym of A. obtusatum lucidum.

=A. lunulatum= (crescent-shaped).* sti. tufted, 2in. to 4in. long. fronds 6in. to 18in. long, 1-1/2in. to 2in. broad, simply pinnate, narrowly lanceolate-oblong, with twelve to twenty pinnæ on each side, which are 1in. to 1-1/2in. long, 1/4in. to 1/2in. broad, bluntish or acute, more or less deeply inciso-crenate throughout, the two sides unequal; the upper one on the base narrowed suddenly, the lower one obliquely truncate; lower pinnæ often deflexed. sori falling short of both edge and midrib. Tropics. SYN. A. erectum.

=A. l. Fernandesianum= (Fernandez).* A form with a more rigid rachis and sub-coriaceous, rather narrower pinnæ. Juan Fernandez.

=A. macrocarpum= (large-fruited). sti. 6in. to 9in. long. fronds 12in. to 24in. long, 6in. to 12in. broad, ovate-lanceolate, with numerous pinnæ on each side, the lowest 3in. to 6in. long, 1in. to 1-1/2in. broad, lanceolate; pinnules oblong-rhomboidal, inciso-crenate or pinnatifid. sori copious, large. Himalayas. Greenhouse species. SYN. Athyrium macrocarpum.

=A. macrophyllum= (long-leaved). Synonymous with A. nitens.

=A. marginatum= (margined). sti. 2ft. to 3ft. long, strong, erect woody, about 1/2in. thick at the base. fronds simply pinnate, 4ft. to 6ft. long; pinnæ in several opposite pairs, the lowest 1ft. to 2ft. long, 3in. to 4in. broad, the edge entire, the base often cordate. sori long, linear, confined to the free veins. Tropical America. Stove species. SYN. Hemidictyum marginatum.

=A. marinum= (sea).* Sea Spleenwort. sti. tufted, 3in. to 6in. long. fronds 6in. to 18in. long, 2in. to 4in. broad, oblong-lanceolate, apex pinnatifid; pinnæ of the lower half quite deltoid, the point acute or obtuse, margin crenato-dentate. sori broad, falling short of the edge. Europe, including Britain. Although perfectly hardy, this requires to be grown in a frame or cool house.

=A. m. coronans= (crowned).* fronds 4in. to 6in. long, simply pinnate; pinnæ for two-thirds of the way up variable in form, and irregularly lobed and cut; the upper third freely branched with numerous imbricated, curled, and slightly crested divisions, forming a dense head 2in. or more across. A dwarf and pretty form.

=A. m. crenatum= (crenated). fronds 4in. to 8in. long, broadly-lanceolate; pinnæ nearly trapeziform, obtuse, with deeply crenated margins. A very pretty form.

=A. m. mirabile= (wonderful).* sti. 2in. to 4in. long. fronds about the same length, the rachis divided about half way down from the top into two nearly equal divisions, which are again freely forked, with the pinnules and segments obtusely lobed; the whole expanded, but not crested, into a breadth equal to the length of the frond; the lower pinnæ are more or less abnormal and bluntly lobed.

=A. m. plumosum= (feathery).* sti. 3in. to 4in. long. fronds 6in. to 15in. long, bi- or tripinnatifid, broadly-lanceolate; pinnæ very variable, closely set, and imbricated, cut nearly to the rachis into ovate or oblong divisions, which are again more or less deeply cut and lobed, the entire frond having a very elegant appearance.

=A. m. ramo-plumosum= (branched and feathery).* fronds divided nearly to the top of the stipes into two main branches, which are distinctly pinnate; pinnæ distant below, imbricated upwards, cut nearly to the rachis into ovate or oblong lobes, the margins of which are slightly dentated. It is a very handsome form, the width of the frond being greater than its length.

=A. m. ramosum= (branched). fronds from 4in. to 8in. long, branched at the apices; pinnæ oblong, with the margins obtusely-dentate, and slightly undulated.

=A. m. sub-bipinnatum= (half-bipinnate). fronds 6in. to 12in. long, lanceolate; pinnæ distant, deeply lobed, or cut nearly to the midribs. A very rare and pretty variety.

=A. m. Thompsonii= (Thompson's).* sti. 3in. to 4in. long, smooth. fronds 6in. to 10in. long, ovate-lanceolate, bipinnatifid; pinnæ closely set, sub-deltoid, unequal-sided, deeply cut into oblong, slightly undulated lobes below, gradually less divided upwards. A very rare and handsome variety. All the forms of A. marinum require a very moist atmosphere, consequently they will not thrive in the open air, unless along the sea-coast.

=A. maximum= (largest). cau. erect. sti. 2ft. or more long. fronds several feet long, 2ft. to 3ft. broad, deltoid-lanceolate, with numerous pinnæ on each side, the lowest 9in. to 18in. long, 4in. to 8in. broad; pinnules sub-sessile, 2in. to 4in. long, 3/4in. broad; edge more or less lobed. sori medial, the lowest two lines long. North India. Stove species. SYNS. A. diversifolium and Diplazium decurrens.

=A. melanocaulon= (black-stiped).* sti. 1ft. to 2ft. long. fronds 2ft. to 3ft. long, 9in. to 18in. broad; lower pinnæ 4in. to 9in. long, 4in. to 6in. broad; pinnules lanceolate, 2in. to 3in. long, 3/4in. broad, cut down two-thirds of the way to the rachis into linear-oblong, falcate, inciso-crenate lobes. sori short, oblong, not touching either midrib or edge. Fiji. Stove species. SYN. Diplazium melanocaulon.

=A. Michauxii= (Michaux's).* cau. stout. sti. 4in. to 8in. long. fronds 9in. to 24in. long, 3in. to 9in. broad, ovate-deltoid, bi- or tripinnate; pinnules oblong, deeply serrate, or cut quite to the rachis. United States. A very handsome hardy species, closely related to the Lady Fern, of which it may be only a variety.

=A. monanthemum= (one-flowered).* sti. densely tufted, 3in. to 6in. long. fronds 12in. to 18in. long, about 1in. broad, with twenty to forty horizontal, sessile, sub-dimidiate pinnæ on each side, which are about 1/2in. long and 1/4in. deep, the upper side crenate, suddenly narrowed at the base, the lower more or less distinctly cut away in a straight, or, in the lower pinnæ, decurved line. sori linear-oblong, usually one or two, parallel with the lower edge of the pinnæ. Temperate regions of both hemispheres. Greenhouse species.

=A. montanum= (mountain).* sti. tufted, 2in. to 3in. long. fronds 2in. to 3in. long, 1in. broad, lanceolate-deltoid; lowest pinnæ distinctly stalked, deltoid, sharply serrated round the outer edge. sori short, copious. United States, 1812. Frame or greenhouse species.

=A. multisectum= (much-cut). Synonymous with A. aspidioides.

=A. musæfolium= (Musa-leaved). A variety of A. Nidus.

=A. myriophyllum= (myriad-leaved). A variety of A. rhizophyllum.

=A. Nidus= (nest).* Bird's-nest Fern. fronds undivided, 2ft. to 4ft. long, 3in. to 8in. broad, lanceolate, acute or acuminate at the apex, tapering gradually below into a short stem; the edge entire, the midrib rounded on the back; veins fine and parallel, about 1/2in. apart. sori reaching about half way towards the margin. India, &c., 1820. SYN. A. australasicum. See Fig. 172.

=A. N. australasicum= (Australian). Midrib keeled on the back, often black. Australia, &c. The two former are best treated in the stove; the latter thrives well in the greenhouse. SYN. Thamnopteris australasicum.

=A. N. musæfolium= (Musa-leaved).* fronds larger, sometimes 6ft. long, 1ft. broad. sori extending nearly to the edge.

=A. nitens= (shining). sti. scattered, 6in. to 9in. long. fronds 1-1/2in. to 2in. long, 6in. to 9in. broad, with twelve to twenty ascending or sub-falcate pinnæ on each side, which are 4in. to 6in. long, 1/2in. to 1in. broad, much acuminated; edge finely toothed, base broadly rounded on the upper, truncate in a curve on the lower side. sori in close regular rows, not extending more than half way from the midrib to the edge. Mauritius. Stove species. SYN. A. macrophyllum, of gardens only.

=A. nitidum= (shining).* sti. 1ft. long, naked. fronds 2ft. to 3ft. long, 6in. to 12in. broad, with many lanceolate-deltoid pinnæ on each side, which are cut down to the rachis into numerous stalked deltoid pinnules, these are again cut into broad fan-shaped cuneate segments, sharply serrated round the outer edge. sori short. North India, Ceylon, &c. Greenhouse species.

=A. novæ-caledoniæ= (New Caledonian).* sti. tufted, 6in. to 12in. long. fronds 9in. to 12in. long, 6in. to 9in. broad, sub-deltoid, tripinnate; lower pinnæ and pinnules deltoid; segments rigid, scarcely flattened, 1/2in. or more long, distant, and erecto-patent. sori long, linear, marginal. New Caledonia. A rare greenhouse species. SYN. Darea novæ-caledoniæ.

=A. obtusatum= (obtuse). sti. tufted, 3in. to 6in. long. fronds 6in. to 12in. long, 3in. to 4in. broad, oblong or ovate-deltoid, with a terminal pinna not much longer than the others, and two to six pairs on each side, which are 1in. to 2in. long and about 1/2in. broad, obtuse, edge crenate, the base truncato-cuneate, shortly stalked. sori copious, broad, linear-oblong, falling short of the edge. Peru. A. difforme is a variety with an ovate-deltoid frond, and the pinnæ cut quite down to a narrow-winged rachis in the lower part into distinctly separated roundish or oblong-sinuated pinnules. New Zealand, Australia, &c. Greenhouse kinds.

=A. o. lucidum= (clear).* fronds often 2ft. long, with fifteen to twenty pairs of pinnæ on each side, which are more herbaceous in texture, darker green in colour, the lowest 6in. long, 1in. to 1-1/2in. broad, narrowed gradually to a long acuminated point, edge more deeply toothed. Greenhouse variety. SYN. A. lucidum.

=A. obtusifolium= (obtuse-leaved).* sti. almost tufted, 6in. to 9in. long. fronds 12in. to 18in. long, 4in. to 6in. broad, ovate-lanceo-late, with twelve to twenty stalked horizontal pinnæ on each side, which are 2in. to 3in. long, 1/2in. to 3/4in. broad, acute; edges slightly undulato-crenate, the upper side with a distinct auricle at the base, and then narrowed suddenly, the lower side obliquely truncate. sori distant, in two regular rows, falling short of the edge. West Indies, &c., 1838. Stove species.

=A. obtusilobum= (obtuse-lobed).* sti. tufted, 2in. to 4in. long. fronds 4in. to 6in. long, 1-1/2in. to 2in. broad, with nine to twelve sub-deltoid pinnæ on each side, of which only the inner third on the lower side is cut away, the largest nearly 1in. long, 3/4in. broad; lowest pinnules 3/8in. deep, flabellately cut into three to five linear blunt lobes. sori sub-marginal. New Hebrides, 1861. A very pretty little stove species. SYN. Darea obtusiloba.

=A. odontites= (much-toothed). Synonymous with A. flaccidum.

=A. oxyphyllum= (sharp-leaved).* sti. firm, 6in. to 12in. long. fronds 1ft. to 2ft. long, 6in. to 12in. broad, lanceolate, with several pinnæ on each side, which are 3in. to 6in. long, 1in. to 2in. broad; pinnules lanceolate, in the larger forms again pinnatifid; teeth mucronate. sori in two rows on the pinnæ or pinnules midway between the midrib and edge. Himalayas. A very variable greenhouse species. SYNS. Athyrium oxyphylla and Lastrea eburnea.

=A. paleaceum= (scaly).* sti. densely tufted, 1in. to 3in. long, spreading, densely scaly. fronds 6in. to 9in. long, 1-1/2in. to 2in. broad, sometimes proliferous and rooting at the apex, with twelve to twenty sub-sessile pinnæ on each side, which are 1in. long, about 1/2in. broad, bluntish; edge inciso-dentate, the upper base auricled and narrowed suddenly, the lower obliquely-truncate; the lower ones stalked, and nearly as broad as long. sori linear, extending nearly to the edge. Tropical Australia. Stove or warm greenhouse species.

=A. palmatum= (palmate). Synonymous with A. Hemionitis.

=A. parvulum= (small). Synonymous with A. trilobum.

=A. persicifolium= (Peach-leaved). sti. and rachis grey, with a few scattered minute grey scales. fronds oblong-lanceolate, 2ft. to 3ft. long, often gemmiferous at the apex; pinnæ ascending, fifteen to thirty-jugate, sub-petiolate, 4in. to 5in. long, linear-ligulate-acuminate, 1/2in. to 3/4in. broad, distinctly crenate throughout. sori regular, reaching nearly to midrib and edge. Philippine and Sandwich Isles. Stove species.

=A. Petrarchæ= (Petrarch's).* sti. densely tufted, 1in. to 2in. long. fronds 2in. to 3in. long, 1/2in. broad, linear-lanceolate, with six to ten horizontal sessile pinnæ on each side, which are 1/4in. long and nearly as much broad, cordate-ovate, blunt; edge sinuated; the base unequal, slightly truncate on the lower side. sori oblong, very short, four to six on each side of the midrib. South Europe, 1819. A very rare little gem, best treated in a cool house.

=A. pinnatifidum= (pinnatifid). sti. tufted, 2in. to 4in. long. fronds 3in. to 6in. long, 1in. or more broad at the base, lanceolate-deltoid, with a long, gradually narrowing point, which is sinuated only; the lobes below this 1/4in. to 1/2in. deep; the lowest ovate-oblong, 1/2in. deep by nearly as broad, sinuated and reaching down nearly to the rachis. sori copious. Pennsylvania. Greenhouse or sheltered places outside.

=A. planicaule= (flat-stiped).* sti. tufted, 3in. to 6in. long, naked. fronds 6in. to 12in. long, 2in. to 3in. broad, with twelve to twenty stalked horizontal pinnæ on each side, which are 1in. to 1-1/2in. long, 1/4in. to 3/8in. broad, acute; edge lobed about half-way down, and deeply serrated. sori copious, reaching nearly to the edge. Himalayas, up to 6000ft., &c., 1841. Greenhouse species.

=A. plantagineum= (Plantain-like). sti. tufted, 6in. to 9in. long. fronds 6in. to 9in. long, 2in. to 3in. broad, simple, acuminate, base rounded; edge slightly undulato-dentate upwards, sometimes lobed towards the base. sori slender, linear, sometimes nearly touching both edge and midrib. West Indies, &c., 1819. Stove species. SYN. Diplazium plantagineum.

=A. polyphyllum= (many-leaved). Synonymous with A. acuminatum.

=A. præmorsum= (bitten). Synonymous with A. furcatum.

=A. prolongatum= (prolonged). Synonymous with A. rutæfolium.

=A. pulchellum= (pretty).* sti. tufted. 1in. to 2in. long. fronds 3in. to 6in. long, 1in. to 1-1/2in. broad, with twelve to eighteen pinnæ on each side, which are 1/2in. to 3/4in. long, two lines to three lines broad, bluntish, almost dimidiate; the upper edge crenate, and narrowed suddenly at the base. sori linear, oblique, falling short of the edge. Tropical America. Stove species.

=A. pumilum= (small). sti. tufted, 3in. to 4in. long. fronds 4in. to 6in. each way, deltoid, the upper part sinuated only, the lower cut down to the rachis into distinct pinnæ, of which the lowest pair are much the largest; the pinnules on the lower side sometimes 2in. long, reaching down to a slightly winged rachis, acuminate and deeply lobed. sori very oblique, the lower ones sometimes 1in. long. West Indies, &c., 1823. A very rare and pretty stove species.

=A. rachirhizon= (rachis-rooting). A variety of A. rhizophorum.

=A. radicans= (rooting). cau. erect, sub-arborescent. sti. 1ft. to 2ft. long, tufted. fronds 3ft. to 5ft. long, 2ft. to 3ft. broad, deltoid; lower pinnæ 12in. to 18in. long, 6in. to 8in. broad; pinnules lanceolate, sessile, the upper ones entire, lower ones 3in. to 4in. long, 3/4in. to 1in. broad, with blunt lobes, 1/4in. broad, reaching about half way down to the rachis. Lower sori sometimes 1/4in. long. Tropical America. A very variable species. SYNS. A. giganteum, Diplazium radicans, D. umbrosum, &c. See Fig. 173.

=A. refractum= (refracted). A variety of A. fontanum.

=A. resectum= (cut or pared).* sti. scattered, 4in. to 8in. long. fronds 6in. to 15in. long, 2in. to 4in. broad, lanceolate-oblong, with ten to thirty sub-sessile horizontal pinnæ on each side, which are 1in. to 3in. long, 1/4in. to 1/2in. broad, almost dimidiate, the point bluntish, all except the truncate part crenate, the upper half at the base narrowed nearly at a right angle. sori not reaching either the midrib or edge. India, &c., widely distributed, 1820. Greenhouse species.

=A. rhizophorum= (root-bearing).* sti. tufted, 4in. to 8in. long. fronds 1ft. to 2ft. long, 4in. to 6in. broad, elongated, and rooting at the apex; pinnæ twelve to thirty on each side, sub-sessile, 1-1/2in. to 2in. long, about 1/2in. broad, inciso-dentate throughout; the two sides unequal, the upper one auricled and narrowed, the lower one obliquely cuneate. sori not reaching either to the edge or midrib. Tropical America. A very variable stove species. A. r. rachirhizon, has distinctly separated oblong-rhomboidal pinnules, again deeply cut into narrow segments.

=A. rhizophyllum= (leaf-rooting). sti. tufted, 2in. to 6in. long. fronds 6in. to 12in. long, 1-1/2in. to 2in. broad, cut down into numerous close-placed horizontal pinnæ on each side; central ones 1in. long, 1/4in. to 3/8in. broad, cut down throughout nearly to the centre into simple or forked erecto-patent pinnules, the lowest on the under side suppressed. sori solitary, sub-marginal. A. r. myriophyllum is a variety with broader fronds; central pinnæ 1-1/2in. long, with lower pinnules cut down into several simple or forked linear segments. North America, &c., 1680. Both handsome greenhouse kinds.

=A. rutæfolium= (Rue-leaved).* sti. tufted, 4in. to 9in. long. fronds 6in. to 15in. long, 2in. to 4in. broad, ovate deltoid, with twelve to twenty pinnæ on each side, the lowest sub-deltoid, 2in. or more long, cut down to the rachis into numerous erecto-patent distant pinnules on each side, the lowest on the upper side again cut down into erecto-patent linear segments. sori small, marginal. Cape Colony. A beautiful greenhouse species. SYNS. A. prolongatum and Darea rutæfolia.

=A. Ruta-muraria= (Wall-rue).* sti. tufted, 2in. to 4in. long. fronds 1in. to 2in. long, about 1in. broad, deltoid, cut down to the rachis into a few pinnæ on each side, the lower ones again cut down into spathulato-cuneate pinnules, which are serrated round the outer edge. sori copious. Great Britain, and almost worldwide in its distribution. Hardy species. This requires a well-drained position, and a soil composed mainly of old mortar rubbish.

=A. salicifolium= (Willow-leaved). sti. tufted, 6in. to 12in. long. fronds 12in. to 18in. long, 6in. to 9in. broad, oblong, with a terminal pinna and four to ten distinctly stalked ones on each side, which are 4in. to 6in. long, 3/4in. to 1in. broad, acuminate; edge usually entire, the base equally truncato-cuneate on both sides. sori falling short both of the edge and midrib. West Indies, &c. Stove species.

=A. Sandersoni= (Sanderson's).* sti. tufted, 1in. to 2in. long. fronds 6in. to 9in. long, 1/2in. to 3/4in. broad, linear, often gemmiferous at the apex, with twelve to twenty horizontal dimidiate pinnæ on each side, which are deeply crenate on the upper edge, and at the base narrowed suddenly into a winged petiole, the lower one nearly straight and quite entire. sori oblong. Natal, &c. A very rare greenhouse species.

=A. schizodon= (cut-toothed). Synonymous with A. Vieillardii.

=A. Schkuhrii= (Schkuhr's). cau. erect. sti. 1ft. to 1-1/2ft. long. fronds deltoid, 1-1/2ft. to 2ft. long, tripinnatifid; lower pinnæ distant, oblong-lanceolate, 6in. to 8in. long, 1-1/2in. to 2in. broad, rachis winged to base; pinnules ligulate-oblong, 3/8in. broad, sessile, cut into shallow, close, oblong blunt lobes. sori 1/8in., medial in a single row in the pinnules. Ceylon. Stove species. SYN. Diplazium Schkuhrii.

=A. Selosii= (Selose's).* sti. densely tufted, 1in. to 2in. long, wiry. fronds 1/2in. to 3/4in. long, palmately cleft, usually into three nearly equal forks, which are about one line broad, the edge slightly inciso-serrate. sori copious, ultimately occupying the whole surface. Tyrol and Carinthia. A very rare and curious little species, requiring the protection of the frame or cool house; it should be firmly potted between pieces of sandstone in loam, leaf-soil, rock chippings and sand, with good drainage.

=A. septentrionale= (northern).* sti. densely tufted, 3in. to 4in. long. fronds simple, or cleft from the apex into two or three cuneate divisions, 1in. to 1-1/2in. long, one line broad, with a few sharp lateral and terminal teeth. sori elongated, copious, often at last hiding the whole under surface. Great Britain, and widely distributed in both hemispheres. This rare little species requires to be securely planted in a well-drained elevated chink of the fernery outside, in loamy, gritty soil.

=A. Shepherdi= (Shepherd's).* sti. tufted, 1ft. long. fronds 12in. to 18in. long, 6in. to 9in. broad; lower pinnæ stalked, 4in. to 6in. long, 1in. to 1-1/2in. broad, point acuminate, edge lobed above, 1/4in. broad, somewhat toothed. sori linear, not reaching the edge. South America. Stove species. SYN. Diplazium Shepherdi.

=A. S. inæquilaterum= (unequal-sided). fronds, texture firm, colour duller than that of the type; pinnæ much acuminated; the lobes deeper, more uniform, and falcate, the two sides unequal, the lower one unequally truncate at the base.

=A. spathulinum= (spathulate). A synonym of A. affine.

=A. spinulosum= (very spiny).* sti. 6in. to 12in. long, scattered. fronds 9in. to 12in. each way, deltoid, tri- or quadripinnatifid, with nine to twelve pinnæ on each side, the lowest much the largest, 6in. to 9in. long, 2-1/2in. to 3in. broad, ovate-lanceolate; pinnules lanceolate, cut down to the rachis on each side into six to nine oblong-rhomboidal mucronate segments, two lines long, one line broad, which are sharply toothed. sori two to ten to a segment, usually round, but occasionally oblong. Amur-land, &c. Greenhouse species. SYN. Athyrium spinulosum and Cystopteris spinulosa.

=A. splendens= (splendid). rhiz. creeping, scaly. sti. 6in. to 9in. fronds deltoid, 6in. to 1ft. long, two to three-pinnate; lower pinnæ stalked, deltoid, 1in. to 2in. broad, pinnate or bipinnate; segments cuneate-flabellate, 1/4in. to 1/2in. broad, slightly lobed, sharply toothed round outer edge. sori copious, slender, irregular, reaching from base nearly to tip of segments. Cape Colony. A very rare greenhouse species.

=A. subsinuatum= (half-waved). Synonymous with A. lanceum.

=A. sundense= (Sundanese). Synonymous with A. vittæforme.

=A. sylvaticum= (woods). cau. decumbent. sti. 1ft. long. fronds 1ft. to 2ft. long, 4in. to 8in. broad, ovate-lanceolate, with numerous spreading pinnæ, the largest 3in. to 4in. long, 1/2in. to 3/4in. broad, acuminated; edge broadly and briefly lobed; base narrowed suddenly on both sides. sori in long slender lines, reaching nearly to the edge. India, &c. Stove species.

=A. thelypteroides= (Thelypteris-like). sti. 1ft. long. fronds 1ft. to 2ft. long, 6in. to 12in. broad, lanceolate, with numerous spreading pinnæ, the lower ones 4in. to 6in. long, 1in. broad, cut down to a broadly-winged rachis into numerous nearly entire elliptical spreading pinnules. sori in close regular rows, reaching nearly from the midrib to the edge, slightly curved, the lower ones often double. North America, &c., 1823. Hardy or cool house species. SYN. Athyrium thelypteroides.

=A. Thwaitesii= (Thwaites's).* rhiz. wide-creeping, stout. sti. 6in. long, slender, densely clothed with strong white woolly hairs. fronds 1ft. or more long, 4in. to 6in. broad, with eight to ten distinct pinnæ beneath the pinnatifid apex, the largest 3in. long, 5/8in. broad, cut down two-thirds of the way to the rachis in oblong crenulated lobes, 1/4in. deep, two lines across. sori reaching half-way to the edge, the lowest about one line long. Ceylon. Very fine stove species. SYN. Diplazium Thwaitesii.

=A. Trichomanes= (maiden-hair).* Maidenhair Spleenwort. sti. densely tufted, 1in. to 4in. long. fronds 6in. to 12in. long, about 1/2in. broad, with fifteen to thirty opposite pairs of sessile horizontal pinnæ, which are 1/4in. to 3/8in. broad, one and a-half to two lines deep, edge slightly crenate, the two sides unequal, the upper one the broadest, and narrowed suddenly at the base. sori linear-oblong, three to six on each side of the midrib. Great Britain, and almost cosmopolitan. Hardy species. See Fig. 174. There are several varieties in cultivation, of which the following are the most important:

=A. T. cristatum= (crested).* fronds 4in. to 6in. long, simply pinnate, with roundish pinnæ, and broad crests at their extremities, sometimes divided, each fork crested. A very pretty little variety, requiring frame or greenhouse treatment. See Fig. 175.

=A. T. incisum= (deeply-cut).* fronds 3in. to 6in. long; pinnæ deeply pinnatifid, the lobes again deeply cut or serrated. A very rare and pretty form.

=A. T. multifidum= (much-divided).* fronds 3in. to 6in. long, once, twice, thrice, or, rarely, quadri-furcate, each division terminated with a little crest. A free-growing kind.

=A. T. ramosum= (branched).* fronds 5in. to 8in. long, freely branched, each division being again forked; pinnæ deeply cut or crenated, or serrate. More hardy than any of the other forms.

=A. trilobum= (three-lobed).* sti. tufted, 2in. to 3in. long. fronds 1in. to 1-1/2in. long, 1in. broad, rhomboidal, apex acute, base cuneate, entire, the margin undulato-crenate, or the lower part deeply lobed, with broad inciso-crenate divisions. sori broad and short. Chili and South Brazil. A very rare little stove species. SYN. A. parvulum.

=A. umbrosum= (shady). sti. 1ft. or more long, scaly at the base. fronds 2ft. to 5ft. long, 12in. to 18in. broad, ovate-deltoid; pinnæ ovate-lanceolate, 6in. to 9in. long, 3in. to 6in. broad, with lanceolate pinnules, which are again cut down to the midribs into unequal-sided rhomboidal lobes, with the margins sharply crenated. sori copious, oblong, with large tumid membranous involucres. Madeira, Canaries, Himalayas, &c. Very widely distributed. A very handsome greenhouse species. SYNS. Allantodia australe, Athyrium umbrosum.

=A. varians= (variable). sti. tufted, 1in. to 3in. long. fronds 4in. to 6in. long, 1in. broad, oblong-lanceolate, with eight to twelve pairs of pinnæ on each side, lower ones sub-deltoid, 1/2in. to 3/4in. long, 1/4in. broad, cut down to the rachis into a few cuneato-flabellate pinnules, the lowest two lines across, sharply toothed on the outer edge. sori copious, when mature, covering nearly the whole under surface of the pinnules. Himalayas, and widely distributed. Greenhouse species.

=A. Veitchianum= (Veitch's). Synonymous with A. Belangeri.

=A. Vieillardii= (Vieillard's).* sti. tufted, 4in. to 6in. long. fronds 6in. to 9in. long, 6in. to 8in. broad, with large linear-lanceolate terminal pinna, lengthened out at the point, and deeply serrated, and three to four pairs of erecto-patent similar lateral ones, which are 3in. to 4in. long, upwards of 1/2in. broad, equally truncato-cuneate, and the lower ones slightly stalked at the base. sori distant, falling short of both edge and margin. New Caledonia. A very graceful greenhouse species. SYN. A. schizodon. A. apicidens is but a variety of this, with shortened sori and more obtuse venation.

=A. viride= (green). Green Spleenwort.* sti. densely tufted, 2in. to 4in. long. fronds 4in. to 6in. long, 1/2in. broad, with twelve to twenty sub-sessile pinnæ on each side, ovate-rhomboid; upper edge narrowed suddenly at the base, the lower one obliquely truncate, outer part deeply crenated. sori copious, linear-oblong, oblique. Great Britain, &c., widely distributed in both hemispheres. It requires to be planted in a well-drained but moist situation. Hardy species. See Fig. 176.

=A. vittæforme= (narrow-fronded).* rhiz. creeping. sti. short, erect. fronds entire, lanceolate, 12in. to 18in. long, 1-1/2in. to 3in. broad, narrowed to an acute point, and very gradually into the stem below; margin obscurely toothed. sori copious, often reaching from the midrib nearly to the edge. Java, &c. Stove species. SYN. A. sundense.

=A. viviparum= (plant-bearing).* sti. tufted. 6in. to 9in. long. fronds 1ft. to 2ft. long, 6in. to 8in. broad, ovate-lanceolate, with numerous close-placed erecto-patent pinnæ on each side, which are 3in. to 4in. long, 1-1/2. to 2in. broad, cut down to a compressed rachis into numerous pinnatifid pinnules, the lower segments of which are again forked; ultimate segments 1/4in. to 3/8in. long, quarter-line broad. sori solitary, marginal. Mauritius, &c., 1820. A very handsome stove species.

=A. vulcanicum= (volcanic). sti. 6in. to 9in. long. fronds 1ft. to 2ft. long, 4in. to 8in. broad, oblong-lanceolate, with a linear-terminal pinna, or gemmiferous at the apex, and six to twelve lateral ones on each side; lower ones stalked, 2in. to 4in. long, 3/4in. to 1in. broad, acuminated; edge slightly dentate; the base truncate. sori very regular and parallel, falling short of the edge. Malay Islands. Stove species. SYN. A. heterodon.

=A. zeylanicum= (Ceylonese).* sti. scattered, 4in. to 8in. long. fronds 6in. to 12in. long, 1in. to 2in. broad, the point acuminated, apex slightly lobed, the lower two-thirds more deeply so, and the base quite down to the rachis; lobes blunt, 1/4in. to 1/2in. across. sori linear, two to three lines long. Ceylon. Stove species. SYN. Diplazium zeylanicum.

=ASSONIA= (commemorative of Ignatius de Asso, a distinguished Spanish botanist, who wrote on the plants of Arragon). ORD. Sterculiaceæ. This genus is now included by best authorities under Dombeya. Ornamental stove evergreen trees, with undivided leaves, and axillary, bifid, sub-corymbose peduncles. They are of easy culture; thriving freely in any light rich soil, or a mixture of loam and peat. Young cuttings will root freely in sand, with a brisk bottom heat, if covered by a bell glass.

=A. populnea= (Poplar-leaved). fl. white, disposed in a terminal, bifid corymb; peduncles scarcely longer than the petioles. June. l. cordate, acuminated, smooth, a little serrated. h. 10ft. to 20ft. Bourbon, 1820.

=A. viburnoides= (Viburnum-like). fl. white; peduncles three times longer than the petioles. l. cordate, somewhat acuminate, crenated, tomentose beneath, as well as younger leaves. h. 10ft. to 20ft. Bourbon, 1822.

=ASTARTEA= (a mythological name: Astarte, the Syrian Venus). ORD. Myrtaceæ. An ornamental greenhouse evergreen shrub, requiring a mixture of loam, peat, leaf soil, and sand. Young cuttings root readily in sand under a bell glass in gentle heat.

=A. fascicularis= (bundle-flowered). fl. white, pedicellate, solitary, axillary. May. l. opposite, linear, fleshy; when young, disposed in axillary fascicles. h. 6ft. to 9ft. West Australia, 1830.

=ASTELMA= (from a, not, and stelma, a crown; in reference to the construction of the fruit). ORD. Compositæ. Greenhouse evergreen shrubs from the Cape of Good Hope. Some species of this genus, which is now generally referred to Helipterum, are very handsome, and thrive well in a mixture of fibrous peat, leaf soil, and sand, with thorough drainage. Fill the pots one-third full of crocks; water carefully, and only when absolutely necessary; and place in a situation near the glass, allowing a free admission of air. Seeds should be sown in pots of light, open soil, and placed in a gentle heat; half-ripened cuttings will strike readily in sandy soil with a hand glass placed over them. They are now but rarely seen under cultivation.

=A. canescens= (hoary). fl.-heads purple; scales of involucre ovate; branches one-flowered. May to June. l. oblong, blunt, imbricated. h. 1-1/2ft. 1794.

=A. eximium= (fine).* fl.-heads crimson; corymbs sessile. July. l. sessile, ovate, close, erect, white with thick woolly pubescence. Stem stout. h. 3ft. 1793. This is a very beautiful species.

=A. speciosissimum= (showiest). fl.-heads white, large, solitary, terminal. July. l. sessile, lanceolate-obovate, acute, three-nerved, woolly. h. 8ft. 1691.

=ASTEPHANUS= (from a, without, and stephanos, a corona; corona absent). ORD. Asclepiadeæ. A genus of pretty evergreen greenhouse twiners. Flowers few, small, disposed in interpetiolar umbels; corolla campanulate. Leaves small, opposite. They thrive in a compost of turfy peat, leaf soil, and loam, in equal parts. Very little water is required when the plants are at rest. Cuttings root readily in sandy soil in a moderate heat. Propagation may also be effected by division.

=A. linearis= (linear). fl. white; umbels dividing in threes, lateral and terminal. July. l. 1in. long, opposite, linear-lanceolate. Stem glabrous. Cape of Good Hope, 1816.

=A. triflorus= (three-flowered).* fl. white; umbels generally three-flowered. July. l. opposite, lanceolate, villous beneath. Stems hairy. Cape of Good Hope, 1816.

=ASTER= (from aster, a star; general shape of flower-heads). Michaelmas Daisy; Star-wort. SYN. Pinardia (of Necker). ORD. Compositæ. Hardy herbaceous perennials, except where otherwise stated. Heads solitary, corymbose, or panicled, heterogamous, rayed; ray florets pistiliferous, one or two-seriate, fertile or neuter; ligule elongated, white, blue, or purple; disk florets hermaphrodite, fertile, tubular, yellow, five-cleft; involucre campanulate or hemispheric; bracts few or many-seriate, outer smaller or larger; receptacle flat or convex; pappus hairs few or copious, scabrid, outer sometimes shorter, rigid, and paleaceous. Leaves alternate. This large genus contains many handsome border and alpine deciduous perennials (rarely biennials) of easy culture in ordinary soil. They may be propagated by divisions in autumn or spring, or by seeds in spring. The greenhouse species are mostly evergreen shrubs, requiring a compost of peat, leaf soil, and loam. Cuttings root readily in a sandy soil, under a hand glass, with very little heat.

=A. acris= (acrid). fl.-heads blue; involucre imbricated, twice as short as the disk. August. l. linear-lanceolate, not dotted, three-nerved. h. 2ft. South Europe, 1731.

=A. acuminatus= (taper-pointed).* fl.-heads white; panicle corymbose. September. l. broad-lanceolate, narrowed at base, entire, with a very long point. Stem simple, flexuous, angular. h. 2ft. North America, 1806.

=A. adulterinus= (false). fl.-heads violet; involucre squarrose, shorter than the disk. September. l. amplexicaul, lanceolate; lower ones sub-serrate, smooth; those of the branches linear squarrose. h. 3ft. North America.

=A. æstivus= (summer-flowering).* fl.-heads blue. July. l. lanceolate, somewhat amplexicaul, narrowed at the end, scabrous at edge. Stem erect, hispid; branchlets pilose. h. 2ft. North America, 1776.

=A. albescens= (whitish). fl.-heads purple or whitish, nearly 1in. across; corymbosely panicled; scales of involucre ovate-linear, apiculate; ray twenty-flowered. August. l. lanceolate on short petioles, denticulate, downy. Plant beset with rusty down. h. 3ft. Nepal, 1842.

=A. alpinus= (alpine).* fl.-heads bright purple, 1in. to 2in. across; scales of involucre nearly equal, lanceolate, bluntish. July. l., radical ones lanceolate-spathulate; those of the stem lanceolate. Stem one-flowered. h. 6in. to 9in. Europe, 1658. A very attractive species, having a dwarf, stout habit; it forms a useful and handsome subject for edging, and its flowers are valuable for cutting purposes. See Fig. 177.

=A. a. albus= (white).* fl.-heads white, in other respects resembling the type; but it is much less desirable, and has not nearly so vigorous a habit. Europe, 1827.

=A. altaicus= (Altaian).* fl.-heads blue-purple, about 2in. across; stem simple, corymbose, downy. June, July. l. linear-lanceolate, entire, blunt mucronate, three-nerved at base, veiny. h. 1ft. Siberia, 1804. This, which is frequently considered a variety of A. alpinus, is one of the handsomest.

=A. alwartensis= (Alwart). fl.-heads red; ray very fine; involucre loosely squarrose. May. l. ovate, narrowed at base, entire, about five-nerved. h. 1ft. Caucasus, 1807.

=A. Amellus= (Amellus).* fl.-heads purple, solitary, numerous; involucre imbricated squarrose; leaves blunt; inner membranous, coloured at edge. August. l. oblong-lanceolate, scabrous. h. 2ft. Italy, 1596. One of the best border kinds.

=A. A. bessarabicus= (Bessarabian).* A most desirable variety, frequently seen in gardens; it is rather taller than the type, with larger flower-heads, of a deep purple colour. One of the showiest of all the Asters. See Fig. 178.

=A. amplexicaulis= (stem-clasping). fl.-heads violet. July. l. ovate-oblong, acute, amplexicaul, cordate, serrated, smooth. Stem panicled, smooth; branches one to two-headed. h. 3ft. North America.

=A. amygdalinus= (Almond-leaved). fl.-heads white; involucre closely imbricated. August. l. lanceolate, narrowed at base, acuminated, scabrous at edge. Stem simple, corymbose at end. h. 2ft. North America, 1759.

=A. argenteus= (silvery).* fl.-heads purple. August. l. oblong-lanceolate, silky, sessile. Stem slender, decumbent, loosely branched; branches and branchlets one-headed. h. 1ft. North America, 1801.

=A. bellidiflorus= (Daisy-flowered). fl.-heads pale red; involucre with spreading scales. September. l. amplexicaul, narrow-lanceolate, scabrous above, lower sub-serrated. Stem much branched. h. 3ft. North America.

=A. Bigelovii= (Bigelow's).* fl.-heads corymbose, 2-1/2in. diameter, ray-florets lilac, disk yellow. Summer. l. scabrous pubescent, oblong-spathulate; cauline ones amplexicaul, ovate-oblong, crenate, obscurely-toothed. h. 2-1/2ft. Colorado, 1878. A very handsome biennial species. SYN. A. Townshendi.

=A. blandus= (charming). fl.-heads pale purple; racemes scarcely longer than the leaves. October. l. sub-amplexicaul, oblong-lanceolate, acuminate, sessile, smooth. Stem pyramidal. h. 2ft. North America, 1800.

=A. canescens= (hoary). fl.-heads pale purple; involucre imbricated, very acute, longer than disk. September. l. linear. Panicle corymbose, much branched, leafy. h. 2ft. North America, 1812. Biennial or perennial.

=A. cassiarabicus= (Arabian Cassia). fl.-heads pink; panicles corymbose. September. l. ovate, acute, serrated, tapering at the petioles. Plant erect, pilose. h. 2ft. Russia, 1834.

=A. caucasicus= (Caucasian).* fl.-heads purple, solitary; scales of involucre nearly equal, linear. July. l. ovate, sessile, scabrous. h. 1ft. Caucasus, 1804.

=A. ciliatus= (ciliated). fl.-heads white. September. l. ciliated; cauline ones linear-lanceolate, nerved; those of the branches very short lanceolate, three-nerved. Stem branched, downy; branches downy. h. 3ft. North America.

=A. concinnus= (neat).* fl.-heads purple; involucre closely imbricated. October. l. sub-amplexicaul, lanceolate; lower ones sub-serrate, smooth. Stem simple, panicled at end. h. 2ft. North America, 1800.

=A. concolor= (one-coloured). fl.-heads purple; raceme terminal. October. l. oblong-lanceolate, hoary on each side. Stem simple, erect, downy. h. 1ft. North America, 1759.

=A. conyzioides= (Conyza-like). Synonymous with Seriocarpus conyzioides.

=A. cordifolius= (heart-leaved). fl.-heads blue, small, disposed in crowded racemes, which are slightly drooping. July. l. cordate, pilose beneath, finely serrated, stalked. Stem smoothish, panicled; panicle spreading. h. 2ft. North America, 1759.

=A. coridifolius= (Coris-leaved). fl.-heads pale blue. October. l. very numerous, linear, blunt, reflexed, hispid at edge. Stem branched, diffuse, smooth; branches one-headed. h. 1ft. North America.

=A. corymbosus= (corymbose). fl.-heads corymbose, about 1in. in diameter; ray-florets few, narrow, white; disk-florets pale yellow. Autumn. l. 3in. long, cordate acute, lobed at the base, coarsely toothed. Stems brittle, blackish purple. h. 2ft. to 3ft. SYN. Biotia corymbosa. See Fig. 179.

=A. diffusus= (diffuse). fl.-heads white; involucres imbricated. October. l. elliptic-lanceolate, equal, serrated, smooth. Branches spreading. Stem pubescent. h. 2ft. North America, 1777.

=A. Douglasii= (Douglas's).* fl.-heads purple; involucral scales linear or spathulate-linear, loosely imbricated. August. l. lanceolate, acute, entire, or rarely serrate, mostly tapering at the base. Stem smooth, slender, paniculately branched, leafy. h. 3ft. to 4ft. California, &c.

=A. dracunculoides= (Tarragon-like).* fl.-heads white, about 1in. across, disposed in dense cymose clusters; involucre imbricated. September, October. l. linear, acuminated, entire; lower ones linear-lanceolate, sub-serrate. Branches corymbose. h. 3ft. North America, 1811. A very handsome species.

=A. dumosus= (bushy).* fl.-heads white, about 1/2in. across, disposed in broad clusters; involucre cylindrical, closely imbricated. October. l. linear, glabrous; those of the branches very short. Branches panicled. h. 2ft. North America, 1734.

=A. d. albus= (white).* fl.-heads quite white, and rather smaller than those of the species. North America.

=A. d. violaceus= (violet). fl.-heads violet-purple. North America.

=A. elegans= (elegant). fl.-heads blue, small; corymb contracted, drooping; scales of involucre oblong-cuneate, blunt, squarrose. September. l. scabrous; cauline ones oblong-lanceolate, acute; radical ones oblong, stalked. h. 2ft. North America, 1790. A very elegant species, having a graceful habit.

=A. eminens= (eminent). fl.-heads light blue. October. l. linear-lanceolate, acuminate, scabrous at edge; lower ones sub-serrated. Stem panicled; branches one-headed. h. 2ft. North America.

=A. ericoides= (Heath-like).* fl.-heads white; involucre squarrose, leaflets acute. September. l. linear, glabrous; those of the branches subulate, close together; and those of the stem long. h. 3ft. North America, 1758. A very pretty species. See Fig. 180.

=A. floribundus= (many-flowered).* fl.-heads light purple. September. l. sub-amplexicaul, lanceolate; lower ones serrated. Stem smooth; branches corymbose. h. 4ft. North America.

=A. foliosus= (leafy). fl.-heads pale blue; involucre imbricate. September. l. linear-lanceolate, acuminate, narrowed at each end. Stem downy, panicled, erect; branches few-headed. h. 3ft. North America, 1732.

=A. fragilis= (fragile). fl.-heads flesh-coloured, small; involucre imbricated. September. l. linear, acuminate, entire; radical ones oblong, serrate. Branches in corymbose panicles. h. 2ft. North America, 1800.

=A. grandiflorus= (large-flowered).* fl.-heads purple, large, terminal; scales of involucre squarrose. November. l. linear, rigid, acute, sub-amplexicaul; those of the branches reflexed, hispid at edge. h. 2ft. North America, 1720. See Fig. 181.

=A. hyssopifolius= (Hyssop-leaved).* fl.-heads white, or purple shaded; scales of the involucre about half as long as the disk. August to October. l. linear-lanceolate, acute, with the margins scabrous. Branches fastigiate and corymbose, smooth. h. 1-1/2ft. to 2ft. North America.

=A. lævigatus= (smooth-stemmed). fl.-heads flesh-coloured, about 1in. across, disposed in large panicles. September. l. sub-amplexicaul, broad-lanceolate, sub-serrate, smooth. Stem glabrous. Branches many-headed. h. 3ft. North America, 1794.

=A. lævis= (smooth).* fl.-heads blue; involucre imbricated with cuneiform leaflets. September. l. sub-amplexicaul, remotely oblong, entire, lucid; radical ones sub-serrated. h. 2ft. North America, 1758. One of the best border species.

=A. laxus= (loose-flowered). fl.-heads white, about 1in. across; clusters loose. October. l. linear-lanceolate, scabrous at edge; lower ones sub-serrated; stem ones reflexed. Stem loosely panicled. h. 2ft. North America.

=A. linarifolius= (Toad-flax-leaved). fl.-heads pale blue. September. l. numerous, linear, mucronated, nerveless, not dotted, keeled, scabrous, rigid. Branches fastigiate, one-headed. h. 1ft. North America, 1699.

=A. linifolius= (Flax-leaved). fl.-heads white; involucre imbricated, short. July. l. linear, nerveless, dotted, scabrous, reflexed, spreading. Branches corymbose, fastigiate, leafy. h. 2ft. North America, 1739.

=A. longifolius= (long-leaved).* fl.-heads white, 1in. across, in dense corymbose panicles; involucre squarrose. October. l. linear-lanceolate, rarely toothed, very long, smooth. h. 3ft. North America, 1798. There are several varieties of this handsome species.

=A. l. formosus= (charming).* fl.-heads pink, produced in dense corymbs. h. 1-1/2ft. to 2ft.

=A. macrophyllus= (large-leaved). fl.-heads white. August. l. large, ovate, stalked, serrated, scabrous; upper ones cordate, sessile. Stem branched, diffuse. h. 2ft. North America, 1739.

=A. multiflorus= (many-flowered).* fl.-heads white, small; corymb large, elongated; involucre imbricated; scales oblong, squarrose, acute. September. l. linear, glabrous. Stem much branched, diffuse, downy; branchlets one-sided. h. 3ft. North America, 1732.

=A. myrtifolius= (Myrtle-leaved). fl.-heads white; involucre imbricated; scales length of disk. August. l., stem ones, amplexicaul, scabrous; those of the branches small. h. 2ft. 1812.

=A. novæ-angliæ= (New England).* fl.-heads purple, in terminal clusters. September. l. linear-lanceolate, pilose, amplexicaul, auricled at base. Stem simple, pilose, straight. h. 6ft. North America, 1710. One of the best; having a tall and robust habit.

=A. n.-a. rubra= (red).* fl.-heads deep red pink, in other respects like the type. North America, 1812.

=A. novæ-belgii= (New York).* fl.-heads pale blue. September. l. sub-amplexicaul, lanceolate, glabrous, scabrous at edge; lower ones sub-serrated. Branches divided. h. 4ft. North America, 1710. There is a variety known in gardens which belongs to this species, under the name of amethystinus, the flowers of which are much larger and very showy.

=A. obliquus= (oblique). fl.-heads numerous; ray white; disk purplish. Autumn. l. alternate; lower ones linear-lanceolate, oblique; upper stem ones smaller. h. 5ft. North America. A very fine species, forming large tufts.

=A. paniculatus= (panicled).* fl.-heads light blue; involucre loose. September. l. ovate-lanceolate, sub-serrated, stalked, smooth; petioles naked. Stem much branched, smooth. h. 4ft. North America, 1640.

=A. pannonicus= (Pannonian). fl.-heads violet; scales of involucre lanceolate, blunt, equal. July. l. linear-lanceolate, hispid at edge. Stem simple, corymbose. h. 2ft. Hungary, 1815.

=A. patens= (spreading). fl.-heads light purple, about 1in. across. October. l. oblong-lanceolate, ciliate, cordate, amplexicaul, scabrous on each side, hairy. Stem branched, hairy. h. 2ft. North America, 1773.

=A. pendulus= (drooping).* fl.-heads pure white at first, ultimately rosy pink, small. September. l. elliptic-lanceolate, serrate, smooth, those of the branches distant. Branches much spreading, pendulous. h. 2ft. North America, 1758. A very pretty species.

=A. peregrinus= (foreign).* fl.-heads bluish purple, 2in. across. July, August. l. lanceolate, sub-acute, entire, smooth, those of the stem rather narrower than the radical ones. Stem smooth, or nearly so, two or three-flowered. h. 1ft. North America. A very pretty little species for the rockery or border.

=A. pilosus= (pilose). fl.-heads pale blue; involucre oblong, loose, imbricated. September. l. linear-lanceolate, hoary. Stem branched, villous; branchlets somewhat one-sided, one-headed. h. 2ft. North America, 1812.

=A. præcox= (early). fl.-heads violet; involucre imbricated; scales nearly equal; outer scales somewhat spreading. July. l. oblong-lanceolate, narrowed at the base. Stem hairy. h. 2ft. North America, 1800.

=A. pulchellus= (beautiful).* fl.-heads purple, solitary; scales of involucre nearly equal, linear, acuminate. June. l., radical ones spathulate; cauline ones linear-lanceolate. h. 1ft. Armenia.

=A. puniceus= (red-stalked). fl.-heads blue, about 1in. across; panicle large, pyramidal; involucre loose, longer than the disk. September. l. amplexicaul, lanceolate, serrate, roughish. Branches panicled. h. 6ft. North America, 1710.

=A. pyrenæus= (Pyrenean).* fl.-heads lilac-blue (disk yellow), large, three to five in a short corymb. July. l. scabrous on both sides; cauline ones oblong-lanceolate, acute, sessile, sharply serrated on the upper part. h. 1ft. to 1-1/2ft. Pyrenees.

=A. Reevesi= (Reeves's). fl.-heads white, with yellow centre, small; panicle dense, pyramidal. Autumn. l. linear, acute. Branches slender. h. 9in. to 12in. North America. A very desirable species, suitable for rockwork.

=A. reticulatus= (netted). fl.-heads white. July. l. lanceolate-oblong, acute at each end, sessile, revolute at end, netted, and three-nerved beneath. Plant hoary all over. h. 3ft. North America, 1812.

=A. rubricaule= (red-stemmed). Synonymous with A. spurius.

=A. salicifolius= (Willow-leaved). fl.-heads flesh-coloured; involucre lanceolate, imbricate; scales acute, spreading at end. September. l. linear-lanceolate, nearly entire, smooth. Stem smooth, panicled at end. h. 6ft. North America, 1760.

=A. salsuginosus= (salt-plains).* fl.-heads violet-purple; involucral scales linear, loose, glandular. July. l. entire, the lower spathulate, obovate, tapering into a margined petiole; the upper ones lanceolate, acute, with broad base, usually sub-amplexicaul. Stem minutely pubescent, leafy nearly to the top, few-flowered. h. 9in. to 18in. North America, 1827. A very handsome species.

=A. s. elatior= (tallest). This variety grows 2ft. or more high, and has rather larger flowers than the type. North America.

=A. sericeus= (silky). fl.-heads deep blue; terminal, about 1-1/2in. across. Summer and autumn. l. oblong-lanceolate, sessile, entire, three-nerved, silky with down. h. 3ft. Missouri, 1802. This is a half-hardy evergreen shrub, and requires a warm, well-drained soil.

=A. serotinus= (late-flowering). fl.-heads blue. September. l. oblong-lanceolate, acuminate, sessile, smooth, scabrous at edge; lower ones serrated; branches corymbose, smooth. h. 3ft. North America.

=A. Shortii= (Short's). fl.-heads purplish blue, about 1in. across; panicles long, racemose. Autumn. l. lanceolate, elongated, acuminated, cordate at the base. h. 2ft. to 4ft. Stem slender, spreading. North America.

=A. sibiricus= (Siberian). fl.-heads blue; involucre loose; leaflets lanceolate, acuminate, hispid. August. l. lanceolate, sub-amplexicaul, serrate, pilose, scabrous. h. 2ft. Siberia, 1768.

=A. sikkimensis= (Sikkimese).* fl.-heads purple; leaflets of involucre linear, acuminate, sub-squarrose. October. l. lanceolate, acuminate, spinosely denticulate; radical ones on longer petioles; cauline ones sessile; corymbs large, of many heads, leafy, erect, glabrous, branched. h. 3ft. Sikkim, 1850.

=A. spectabilis= (showy).* fl.-heads blue; scales of involucre loose, leafy. August. l. lanceolate, roughish, somewhat amplexicaul; lower ones serrate in the middle. h. 2ft. North America, 1777. A very pretty species.

=A. spurius= (spurious). fl.-heads purple, large, few; inner scales of involucre coloured. September. l. linear-lanceolate, amplexicaul, polished. Stem virgate, panicled. Branches racemose. h. 4ft. North America, 1789. SYN. A. rubricaule.

=A. tardiflorus= (late-flowering). fl.-heads blue, numerous. Autumn. l. sessile, serrated, smooth, spathulate-lanceolate, narrowed at base, and bent down towards each side. h. 2ft. North America, 1775.

=A. Townshendi= (Townshend's). Synonymous with A. Bigelovii.

=A. Tradescanti= (Tradescant's).* fl.-heads white; involucre imbricated. August. l. lanceolate-sessile, serrated, smooth; branches virgate. Stem round, smooth. h. 3ft. North America, 1633. A. multiflorus is very much like this species, and, perhaps, a mere form thereof, with somewhat smaller flowers and more obovate-oblong leaves.

=A. tripolium= (Tripoli). Michaelmas Daisy. fl.-heads blue; disk yellow; scales of involucre lanceolate, membranous, obtuse, imbricated. August. l. linear-lanceolate, fleshy, obscurely three-nerved. Stem glabrous, corymbose. h. 2ft. Britain.

=A. turbinellus= (turbinate). fl.-heads delicate mauve, disposed in panicles; involucre top-shaped, scales imbricate. Summer and autumn. l. lanceolate, smooth, entire, with fringed margins, somewhat stem-clasping; those of the branchlets awl-shaped. h. 2ft. to 3ft. North America. A very desirable species. See Fig. 182.

=A. undulatus= (undulated). fl.-heads pale blue. August. l. oblong-cordate, amplexicaul, entire; petioles winged. Stem panicled, hispid. Branchlets one-sided. h. 3ft. North America, 1699.

=A. versicolor= (various-coloured).* fl.-heads white, changing to purple; scales of involucre shorter than disk. August. l. sub-amplexicaul, broad-lanceolate, sub-serrate, smooth. Stem glabrous. h. 3ft. North America, 1790.

The annuals (Callistemma hortensis), usually known as French, German, or China Asters, are very extensively grown, both for beds and pots, and their diversity and generally compact growth render them almost universal favourites. They require a rich loamy soil, and as the roots are produced near the surface, a mulching of rotten dung will be found most beneficial. Seeds may be raised in a cold frame in March or April, and, when the seedlings are large enough, they must be transplanted into beds from 9in. to 12in. apart each way. If it is desired to have them in pots, they may be removed thence with a good ball of earth adhering just before they commence flowering, liberally watered, and kept lightly shaded from the sun, until root action is resumed. Those kinds required for exhibition purposes should have several of the side shoots removed, so that the whole growing energy of the plant may be centralised into from five to seven flower-heads, by which means fine blooms may be obtained. The dwarf kinds are most valuable for bedding and pots, as the taller kinds frequently require stakes for support. The following are the most important sections:

=Betteridge's Prize.= Very beautifully formed and brilliantly coloured varieties, unsurpassed for exhibition purposes. As this class has rather a straggling habit of growth, it is less suitable for bedding and borders than many of the others.

=Boltze's Miniature Bouquet Pyramidal.= Dwarf and elegant, in compact bouquets of six or eight; the truss of flower-heads springs directly from the ground, having only a few leaves at base. Colours very varied. h. 6in. to 8in.

=Crown.=* Distinct. The central portion, or disk, of the head of flowers is pure white, surrounded by a broad margin of coloured ray florets, such as purple, violet, crimson, rose, &c. Flower-heads large, flat, freely produced. h. 1ft. to 1-1/2ft.

=Dwarf Chrysanthemum-flowered.=* In size of flower-heads and habit of growth, this surpasses all other dwarf varieties. The flowers are full, Chrysanthemum-shaped, produced in clusters, or bouquets, from ten to twenty in a truss, very delicate and beautiful in colour. h. 1ft.

=Dwarf Pyramidal= or =Dwarf Bouquet=. A pretty little class, and extremely floriferous, each plant producing from twenty to fifty heads of bloom. Some of the colours are: Exquisite carmine with white points, white with blue or carmine points, white with salmon centre, &c. h. 1ft.

=Improved Imbricate.= The best strain of pyramidal Asters with recurved florets; fine regular form of flowers, double to the centre, producing but few seeds. Colours very brilliant. h. 2ft.

=Improved Rose.= A handsome class, producing a branched head, displaying no less than fifty large double flower-heads, the outer florets finely imbricated, and filled up to the centre when quite open. The colours are of great brilliancy, and of many shades. h. 2ft.

=Pompone Goliath.=* Flower-heads globular, and florets very closely set. Valuable for bouquets, as the flowers remain intact for a considerable time.

=Pyramidal Hedgehog.= Singular and unique. Stems upright, and branched; each branch terminated by a single flower-head, which is filled up with quill-like florets. Colours various. h. 1-1/2ft.

=Truffaut's Pæony Perfection.=* Vigorous upright growers, having large, hemispherical-formed heads of flowers with incurved florets, 4in. across. The colours also are very varied. h. about 2ft. See Figs. 183 and 184.

=Victoria.=* One of the most popular classes of Asters grown; flower-heads very double, imbricate, globular, 4in. in diameter, from ten to twenty on a plant, of various shades. h. 1ft., with a pyramidal habit. See Fig. 185.

=ASTERACANTHA= (from aster, a star, and acantha, a spine; referring to the disposition of the spines). ORD. Acanthaceæ. A handsome greenhouse herbaceous perennial, of easy culture in sandy loam. It should be grown in a sunny position, and be kept moderately dry, otherwise little but foliaceous growth will be produced; but, if thus treated, it flowers freely. Propagated by divisions in spring; or by seeds, sown in August.

=A. longifolia= (long-leaved). fl. yellow, in dense axillary fascicles. July. l. lanceolate, tapering to the base, narrow, sessile, serrately ciliated. Stem quadrangular. Plant rather hairy. h. 2ft. India, 1781.

=ASTERACEÆ.= See =Compositæ=.

=ASTEROCEPHALUS.= See =Scabiosa=.

=ASTILBE= (from a, without, and stilbe, brilliancy; in allusion to the inconspicuous flowers of some of the species). ORD. Saxifragaceæ. Tall branching herbs, with triternate or biternate leaves, allied to Spiræa, from which they differ in having not more than three carpels, eight or ten stamens, and numerous albuminous seeds. They are all more or less graceful, and some indispensable, either when grown in isolated clumps, or intermingled with other herbaceous plants. They thrive well in almost any rich garden soil, preferring damp positions, and are easily propagated by division, which is best done in early spring. A. japonica is grown very extensively for decorative purposes, its elegant spikes of pure white flowers rendering it especially valuable. The majority of the plants cultivated are imported, but they may be grown fairly well in this country in heavily manured soil. They should be potted as early as possible in the autumn, and plunged in ashes or fibre outside, when they will soon commence to root, after which they may be placed in heat, and forced as required, always giving an abundance of water. Indeed, the pots may be stood in pans of water, especially when the plants are well furnished with growth.

=A. barbata= (bearded). A synonym of A. japonica.

=A. decandra= (ten-stamened). fl. white, in spicate racemose panicles. May. l. biternate; leaflets cordate, deeply lobed and serrated, glandular beneath, and on the petioles. h. 2ft. to 3ft. North America, 1812.

=A. japonica= (Japanese).* fl. small, pure white, in large branching racemose panicles. May. l. triternate or pinnate, serrated. h. 1ft. to 2ft. Japan. This is best grown in pots, as early frosts generally cut it down in the open air. SYNS. Spiræa barbata and japonica, also Hoteia and A. barbata. See Fig 186.

=A. j. variegata= (variegated).* l. prettily variegated with yellow; panicles much more dense than the type; indeed, it is far superior in that respect.

=A. rivularis= (brook).* fl. yellowish-white, or reddish, in large panicled spikes. Late summer. l. biternate; leaflets ovate, doubly serrated, villous beneath and on the petioles. h. 3ft. Nepaul. A grand plant for the margins of lakes or damp woodlands. See Fig. 187.

=A. rubra= (red).* fl. rose, very numerous, in dense panicles. Late summer and autumn. l. biternate; leaflets oblique, cordate, 1in. to 2in. long, with elongated, serrated points. h. 4ft. to 6ft. India, 1851. A very pretty, but rare species; excellent for sub-tropical gardening.

=A. Thunbergi= (Thunberg's).* fl. small, white, very numerous, in erect, much branched, pyramidal panicles, with reddish and slightly downy stalks. May. l. unequally pinnate or bipinnate; leaflets broad, yellowish green, sharply toothed. h. 1-1/2ft. Japan, 1878. This pretty little sub-shrub is extensively propagated on the Continent for forcing purposes.

=ASTRAGALUS= (a name applied to a shrub by Greek writers). Milk Vetch. ORD. Leguminosæ. A very large genus of hardy herbs or sub-shrubs. Flowers in axillary clusters; standard larger than the wings. Leaves unequally pinnate. About one hundred species have from time to time been introduced in English gardens; many of these are lost to cultivation; the comparative few here described are still generally grown, and are good representative species. They are all of easy culture. The shrubby kinds grow well in any light dry soil, and are slowly increased by cuttings placed in a cold frame, or by seeds. The herbaceous perennials prefer a dry light soil, and may be increased by divisions or seeds; the latter mode is preferable, as many species are very liable to die if transplanted or divided, which is at best but a slow method. Seed should be sown in pots of sandy soil placed in a cold frame as soon as ripe, or very early in the spring, as they may lie a long time before germinating. The dwarfer species constitute admirable rockwork plants, and can be grown in pots containing a mixture of loam, peat, and sand. Seeds of the two annual species, A. Cicer and A. Glaux, merely require to be sown in the open border early in spring.

=A. adsurgens= (adsurgent).* fl. bluish purple; spikes oblong, pedunculate, longer than the leaves, densely packed. June. l. with eleven to twelve pairs of ovate-lanceolate acute leaflets; stipules acuminated, length of leaves. Plant ascending, smoothish. Siberia, 1818. A very handsome and rare perennial species.

=A. aduncus= (hooked). fl. rose purple, in oblong spikes; peduncles rather shorter than the leaves. June and July. l. with numerous pairs of roundish-ovate, smooth leaflets, sometimes downy. h. 6in. to 9in. Caucasus, 1819. Perennial.

=A. alopecuroides= (foxtail-like).* fl. yellow, disposed in thick dense ovate-oblong spikes, on short axillary peduncles. June. l. with numerous ovate-lanceolate, pubescent leaflets; stipules ovate-lanceolate, acuminated. Plant erect. h. 2ft. to 5ft. Siberia, 1737. One of the finest perennial species grown.

=A. alpinus= (alpine). fl. bluish-purple, sometimes whitish, drooping, disposed in racemes of about 1/2in. long. Summer. l. impari-pinnate, with eight to twelve pairs of ovate or oblong leaflets. Britain. A very desirable, hairy, prostrate perennial.

=A. arenarius= (sand-loving).* fl. blue; peduncles few-flowered, rather shorter than the leaves. June. l. with linear-obtuse leaflets; stipules connate, opposite the leaves. Plant diffuse, tomentose from white adpressed down. h. 6in. Denmark, 1800. Perennial.

=A. austriacus= (Austrian).* fl. few; upper petal, or vexillum, blue, the rest purple; racemes pedunculate, longer than the leaves. May. l., leaflets glabrous, linear, truncately emarginate. Plant diffusely procumbent. South Europe, 1640. Perennial.

=A. canadensis= (Canadian). fl. yellow, disposed in spikes; peduncles about as long as the leaves. July. l. with ten to twelve pairs of elliptic-oblong, bluntish leaflets. Plant nearly erect, rather hairy. h. 2ft. to 3ft. North America, 1732. Perennial.

=A. Cicer= (Vetch-like). fl. pale yellow, disposed in spike-like heads; peduncles longer than the leaves. July. l. with ten to thirteen pairs of elliptic-oblong mucronate leaflets. Plant diffusely procumbent. Europe, 1570. Annual.

=A. dahuricus= (Dahurian). fl. purple, in dense racemes, which are longer than the leaves. July. l., leaflets, seven to nine pairs, oblong, mucronate. Plant erect, pilose. h. 1ft. to 2ft. Dahuria to China, 1822. Perennial.

=A. dasyglottis= (thick-tongued).* fl. purple, blue, and white mixed, in capitate spikes; peduncles a little longer than the leaves. June. l., leaflets elliptic-oblong, somewhat emarginate; stipules connate, opposite the leaves. h. 3in. to 4in. Plant diffuse. Siberia, 1818. A charming little alpine perennial.

=A. falcatus= (hooked). fl. greenish yellow, in spikes; peduncles rather longer than the leaves. June. l. with sixteen to twenty pairs of elliptic-oblong, acute leaflets. Plant erect, rather hairy. h. 1ft. to 2ft. Siberia (in wet, grassy places). Perennial. SYN. A. virescens.

=A. galegiformis= (Galega-like).* fl. pale yellow, pendulous, racemose; peduncles longer than the leaves. June. l. with twelve to thirteen pairs of elliptic-oblong leaflets. Plant erect, glabrous. h. 3ft. to 5ft. Siberia, 1729. A showy perennial species.

=A. Glaux= (Milkwort). fl. purplish, in dense heads; peduncles longer than the leaves. June. l. with eight to thirteen pairs of small, oblong, acutish leaflets. Spain, 1596. Procumbent annual, clothed with whitish hair.

=A. glycyphyllos= (sweet-leaved).* fl. sulphur coloured, in ovate-oblong spikes; peduncles shorter than the leaves. June. l. with four, five, to seven pairs of oval, bluntish, smooth leaflets; stipules ovate-lanceolate, entire. h. 2ft. to 3ft. Britain. A perennial prostrate trailer.

=A. hypoglottis= (under-tongued).* fl. variegated with purplish, blue and white, disposed in roundish heads; peduncles longer than the leaves, ascending. June. l. with numerous little ovate, obtuse, dark green leaflets, somewhat emarginate; stipules connate, ovate. Stems prostrate, rather hairy. h. 3in. Britain, &c. Perennial trailer.

=A. h. alba= (white-flowered).* This resembles the type, except in the colour of the flowers.

=A. leucophyllus= (hoary-leaved).* fl. pale yellow, about 1/2in. long, in dense racemes; peduncles much longer than the leaves. July and August. l., leaflets in numerous pairs, broadly-linear, covered with soft, silky pubescence. h. 2ft. to 3ft. North America. Perennial.

=A. maximus= (largest).* fl. yellow; spike sessile, cylindrical, nearly terminal. June. l. with ovate-lanceolate, pubescent leaflets; stipules oblong-lanceolate. h. 2ft. to 3ft. Armenia. A very handsome, erect, perennial species.

=A. monspessulanus= (Montpelier).* fl. usually purplish, spicate; peduncles longer than the leaves. June. l., leaflets twenty-one to forty-one, ovate or lanceolate, outer ones rather the smallest. Leaves hoary, and plant almost stemless when growing in dry exposed situations; but in rich earth or moist places the leaves are almost glabrous, and the stem becomes elongated. South Europe, 1710. This species is much appreciated, and well deserves a place in all collections. Evergreen trailer. See Fig. 188.

=A. narbonensis= (Narbonne). fl. yellow, disposed in somewhat globose spikes, on short axillary peduncles. June. l. with oblong-linear leaflets; stipules lanceolate. h. 2ft. to 3ft. Narbonne and Madrid, 1789. An erect hairy perennial.

=A. odoratus= (sweet-scented). fl. pale yellow, sweet-scented, disposed in spikes; peduncles same length as leaves. June. l. with eleven to fourteen pairs of oblong acute leaflets; stipules connate. Plant erect, rather ascending. h. 6in. Levant, 1820. Perennial.

=A. onobrychioides= (Onobrychis-like).* fl. beautiful purple, in capitate spikes on long peduncles. July. l. with eight to ten pairs of elliptic leaflets; stipules connate, opposite the leaves. Plant rather diffuse, shrubby at the base, clothed with adpressed hairs. h. 9in. to 12in. Iberia, Persia, &c., 1819. A very handsome perennial species.

=A. Onobrychis= (Onobrychis). fl. purple; spikes oblong-ovate, pedunculate, longer than the leaves. June. l. with seven to sixteen pairs of oblong leaflets. h. 1-1/2ft., or procumbent. Mountains Southern Europe, 1640. This is an elegant perennial, and ranks among the very best. The varieties, all white flowered, are: alpinus, major, microphyllus and moldavicus, but only the first-named is now in cultivation.

=A. pannosus= (woolly).* fl. rose-coloured, in compact globose heads, with peduncles shorter than the leaves. July. l. with four, five, to nine pairs of ovate-lanceolate leaflets, thickly coated with long white woolly hairs. h. 6in. to 9in. Siberia. Perennial.

=A. ponticus= (Pontic). fl. yellow; spikes sessile, almost globose. July. l. oblong, smoothish; stipules lanceolate. Stem rather hairy. h. 2ft. Tauria, 1820. A very showy, erect, border perennial.

=A. purpureus= (purple). fl. purplish blue, disposed in capitate spikes; peduncles longer than the leaves. June. l., leaflets obovate, bidentate at the apex; stipules connate, opposite the leaves. Plant diffuse, procumbent, rather hairy. h. 3in. to 6in. Provence, 1820. Perennial.

=A. sulcatus= (furrowed).* fl. pale violet, but with a white keel, tipped with brown; racemes pedunculate, longer than the leaves. July. l. with linear-lanceolate leaflets. Plant erect, glabrous; stem furrowed. h. 2ft. to 3ft. Siberia, 1783. Perennial.

=A. Tragacantha= (great goat's thorn).* Gum Tragacanth. fl. pale violet, two to five together, axillary, sessile. June. l. with eight to nine pairs of linear hispid leaflets; young stipules connate, clothed with silky hairs; adult ones glabrous; petioles permanent, at length becoming hardened spines. h. 1-1/2ft. to 3ft. Levant, 1640. Evergreen shrub. Tragacanth, a partially soluble gum, was formerly supposed to be furnished by this plant. It is, however, now known that A. Tragacantha yields none. Several species from mountainous regions in Asia Minor, &c., furnish the gum.

=A. vaginatus= (sheathed-stipuled). fl. rosy-purple, with white-tipped wings; calyx rather inflated, covered with soft white and black hairs; spikes dense. Summer. l. impari-pinnate, with seven or eight pairs of elongated-oblong leaflets, both surfaces covered with short silvery hairs. h. 1ft. Siberia. Perennial.

=A. vesicarius= (bladdery). fl., upper petal purple, the wings yellow, and the keel white, tipped with yellow; calyx clothed with black adpressed down and long white spreading hairs; peduncles longer than the leaves. July. l. with five to seven pairs of elliptic leaflets. Plant diffusely procumbent, hoary from adpressed silky down. h. 6in. to 9in. France, 1737. Perennial trailer.

=A viminens= (twiggy). fl., upper petal purplish rose, much longer than the pure white wings; calyx clothed with black hairs; spikes somewhat capitate, pedunculate, longer than the leaves. June. l. with four to six pairs of lanceolate acute leaflets, beset with adpressed hairs. h. 6in. to 1ft. Siberia, 1816. A handsome perennial.

=A. virescens= (greenish). Synonymous with A. falcata.

=A. vulpinus= (fox).* fl. pale yellow; spikes nearly globose, on very short peduncles. June. l. with obovate, obtuse, emarginate, rather velvety leaflets. Plant erect; stem glabrous. h. 2ft. to 3ft. Caucasus, 1815. A handsome border perennial.

=ASTRANTIA= (from astron, a star, and anti, in composition signifying comparison; in reference to the appearance of the umbels of flowers). ORD. Umbelliferæ. Ornamental, hardy, herbaceous perennials, natives of Europe and Caucasus. Universal umbels irregular, of few rays, surrounded by variable involucre; partial umbels regular, and containing many flowers, surrounded by many-leaved involucels. Radical leaves petiolate, palmately lobed; cauline ones few, sessile. Roots blackish. These are suited for borders, banks, and woodlands, growing well in any ordinary garden soil, but preferring a damp position. Easily increased by root divisions in autumn or spring.

=A. carniolica= (Carniolan).* fl. white. May. l. of involucre twelve to thirteen, quite entire, white, with a green line running along the middle of each, tinged with red; radical ones palmate; lobes five to seven, oblong, acuminated, unequally serrated. h. 6in. to 12in. Carniola, 1812. A pretty species.

=A. helleborifolia= (Hellebore-leaved).* fl. (and involucre) pink, pedicellate. June. l. of involucre twelve to thirteen, ovate-lanceolate, exceeding the umbel a little, bristly; radical ones palmate; lobes three, ovate-lanceolate, unequally serrated. h. 1ft. to 2ft. Eastern Caucasus, 1804. SYN. A. maxima.

=A. major= (greater).* fl. pinkish, pedicellate. May. l. of involucre fifteen to twenty, linear-lanceolate, quite entire, hardly longer than the umbel; radical ones palmate; lobes five, ovate-lanceolate, acute, rather trifid, toothed. h. 1ft to 2ft. Europe, 1596. Very distinct and ornamental.

=A. maxima= (greatest). Synonymous with A. helleborifolia.

=ASTRAPÆA= (from astrape, lightning; alluding to the brightness of the flowers). ORD. Sterculiaceæ. Elegant stove evergreen trees. Peduncles axillary, long, bearing on their apex an umbel of large sessile flowers, enclosed in a leafy involucre. Leaves alternate, stalked, cordate, three to five-lobed. They thrive well in a mixture of loam and peat, and require a plentiful supply of water; but the best results accrue if the bottom of the pot can be stood in a saucer or tub of water. Propagated by cuttings of young wood, made in April, placed in a compost of loam and peat, or sand, under a bell glass, in heat.

=A. tiliæflora= (Lime-tree leaved). fl. pink. h. 20ft. Isle of Bourbon, 1824.

=A. viscosa= (clammy). fl. pink. h. 20ft. Madagascar, 1823.

=A. Wallichii= (Wallich's).* fl. scarlet; umbels drooping. July. l. large, cordate, angularly lobed; stipulas leafy, ovate-acuminated; peduncles long, hairy. h. 30ft. Madagascar, 1820. This splendid species has often been described as being one of the finest plants ever introduced into this country; and, when in full flower, nothing can exceed it in beauty and grandeur.

=ASTROCARYUM= (from astron, a star, and karyon, a nut; referring to the disposition of the fruit). SYN. Phœnico-phorum. ORD. Palmaceæ. Very ornamental stove palms, allied to Cocos, having the trunk (when present), foliage, fruit-stalks, spathes, and sometimes the fruit, covered with spines. The flowers develop from the axils of the old decayed leaves. Drupes oval, one-seeded, orange or yellow, in some species fragrant. Leaves pinnate, with linear segments, dark green above, and often of a silvery white below. The species thrive in a compost of two-thirds rich loam and one-third vegetable mould; water may be given copiously. Propagation may be effected by seeds, which should be sown in spring in a hotbed; or by suckers, if they are to be obtained.

=A. acaule= (stemless). l. pinnate, 3ft. to 10ft. long, slender and spreading; pinnæ narrow, arranged in clusters, pendent. Spines very numerous, long, flat, black. h. 10ft. Brazil, 1820.

=A. aculeatum= (prickly). h. 40ft. Guiana, 1824.

=A. argenteum= (silvery).* l. arching, wedge-shaped, pinnate, distinctly plicate, bright green on the upper surface, the under surface, as well as the stalks, covered with a fine white scurf, which gives them a silvered appearance. Columbia, 1875. One of the best of silver palms.

=A. filare= (thready).* l. erect, narrowly cuneate, with two divergent lobes; petioles covered with white scurf, both on the upper and under surfaces. Distinct and elegant, with a comparatively small and slender growth. Columbia, 1875.

=A. granatense= (New Grenadan). l. pinnate, with oblong-acuminate segments; the rachis is spiny, like the petiole, both on the upper and lower surfaces; leafstalks brownish, armed with numerous scattered needle-shaped dark-coloured spines. Columbia, 1876.

=A. mexicanum= (Mexican). Mexico, 1864.

=A. Muru-Muru= (Murumuru). l. pinnate, 10ft. to 12ft. long; leaflets lanceolate, sub-falcate, dark green above, silvery white below. Stem 12ft. to 15ft. high, densely clothed with strong reflexed black spines, over 6in. long. h. 40ft. Brazil, 1825.

=A. rostratum= (beak-sheathed). l. irregularly pinnate, 3ft. to 8ft. long; pinnæ 12in. to 18in. long; terminal lobe much larger and bifid, dark green above, silvery white below; petioles broadly sheathing at the base, densely armed with black spines, sometimes 2in. long. Stem slender, densely clothed with long black spines. A slow grower, ultimately becoming 30ft. high. Brazil, 1854.

=A. vulgare= (common). h. 30ft. Brazil, 1825.

=ASTROLOBIUM.= See =Ornithopus=.

=ASTROLOMA= (from astron, a star, and loma, a fringe; in reference to the bearded limb of the corolla). ORD. Epacridaceæ. Very handsome, little, diffuse, greenhouse, evergreen shrubs. Flowers solitary, axillary; corolla tubular, distended above the middle, and with five bundles of hairs in the inside, near its base. Leaves crowded, alternate, linear, or obovate-lanceolate and mucronate. They thrive best in an equal mixture of sand, loam, and peat, with thorough drainage. Propagated by young cuttings, which root readily in sandy soil, under a bell glass, in a cool house.

=A. denticulatum= (finely-toothed). fl. axillary, erect; corolla pale red, with a ventricose tube. May to July. l. scattered, lanceolate, ciliated, usually procumbent, but sometimes slightly erect. h. 1ft. New Holland, 1824.

=A. humifusum= (trailing). fl. scarlet, similar to the foregoing. May and June. l. lanceolate-linear, rather convex above, with ciliated edges. Shrub prostrate, much branched. h. 1ft. New Holland, 1807.

=ASTROPHYTUM MYRIOSTIGMA.= See =Echinocactus myriostigma=.

=ASYSTASIA= (meaning not clear). ORD. Acanthaceæ. Stove evergreen shrubs. Flowers disposed in axillary or terminal clusters; corolla somewhat funnel-shaped, five-lobed; calyx five-lobed, regular. Branches slender. They require a compost of peat and loam, with a little sand, and, to induce a vigorous growth, a little dry cow-dung may be applied. Propagated by cuttings of young shoots, placed in sandy soil, under a bell glass, in April, with a brisk bottom heat.

=A. chelonioides= (Chelonia-like).* fl. in terminal racemes, reddish purple, the border white. l. opposite, ovate-acute. h. 34ft. India, 1871. A pretty dwarf sub-shrub.

=A. coromandeliana= (Coromandel). fl. deep lilac; racemes axillary, elongated, secund, strict. July. l. opposite, cordate-ovate; branches diffuse. h. 4ft. India, 1845. SYN. Justicia gangetica.

=A. macrophylla= (large-leaved).* fl. bilabiate, bell-shaped, rosy purple outside, and almost pure white within; spikes terminal, erect, 1ft. long. June. l. very large, obovate-lanceolate. h. 8ft. to 20ft. Fernando Po, 1867.

=A. scandens= (climbing).* fl. cream-coloured; tube of corolla widened and recurved above, lobes of limb crenately curved; racemes terminal, compact, thyrse-formed. July. l. obovate or ovate acute, glabrous. h. 6ft. Sierra Leone, 1845. This handsome stove climber requires a high, moist temperature after shifting. SYN. Henfreya scandens.

=A. violacea= (violet).* fl. violet purple, striped with white, in terminal racemes. l. shortly-stalked, ovate-acuminate, deep green, minutely hairy on both surfaces. h. 1ft. to 2ft. India, 1870. A pretty dwarf plant.

=ATACCIA CRISTATA.= See =Tacca integrifolia=.

=ATALANTIA= (mythological: Atalanta, the daughter of Schœneus). ORD. Rutaceæ. A genus of ornamental stove evergreen shrubs, having the eight stamens united below into a tube, and with undivided leaves. It comprises about ten species. They thrive well in a mixture of loam and peat. Propagated by means of ripened cuttings, which will root readily if planted in sand under a hand glass, in heat.

=A. monophylla= (one-leaved). fl. small, white, in axillary racemes. fr. golden yellow, about the size of a nutmeg. June. l. simple, ovate-oblong, emarginate at the apex. Spines small, simple. h. 8ft. India, 1777. A thorny shrub.

=ATAMASCO LILY.= See =Zephyranthes Atamasco=.

=ATHAMANTA= (named from Mount Athamas, in Sicily, where some species are found). ORD. Umbelliferæ. A genus of greenhouse or hardy herbaceous plants, usually velvety from villi on the stem, leaves, and fruit. Flowers white; involucra of one or few leaves; involucel of many leaves. The undermentioned is the only species in cultivation, and is a very graceful perennial, with Fennel-like foliage. It thrives well in any ordinary soil. Increased by divisions, or by seeds sown in spring.

=A. Matthioli= (Matthioli's). fl. white, twelve to twenty-five to an umbel. Summer. l. three or four ternate; leaflets linear-filiform, elongated, divaricate. h. 1ft. to 2ft. Alps of Carinthia, 1802.

=ATHANASIA= (from a, not, and thanatos, death; alluding to the length of time which the flowers last). ORD. Compositæ. Rather ornamental greenhouse evergreen shrubs with yellow flowers, from the Cape of Good Hope. They grow well in a soil consisting of three parts loam and one part peat. Propagation is effected by cuttings, taken from half-ripened wood in spring, and placed in sand, under a hand glass.

=A. capitata= (headed).* fl.-heads yellow. March. l. pinnati-partite; younger hoary, older smooth. h. 1-1/2ft. Cape of Good Hope, 1774.

=A. pubescens= (downy). fl.-heads yellow. July. l. oblong, entire (or tridentate), softly hairy on both sides; when old, sub-glabrous. h. 6ft. Cape of Good Hope, 1768.

=ATHEROSPERMA= (from ather, an awn, and sperma, seed; seeds awned). ORD. Monimiaceæ. A beautiful greenhouse evergreen tree, with the aspect of a stately conifer. Flowers panicled, diœcious; perianth five to eight-fid. Leaves opposite, aromatic. A compost of loam and peat, in about equal proportions, is necessary. It can be readily propagated by cuttings.

=A. moschata= (Musk-scented). Plume Nutmeg. fl. white. June. h. 40ft. New Holland, 1824.

=ATHEROSPERMEÆ.= See =Monimiaceæ=.

=ATHRIXIA= (from a, not, and thrix, a hair; the receptacle being destitute of hairs). ORD. Compositæ. A greenhouse evergreen shrub. It succeeds best in turfy loam, peat, and sand, and requires to be potted firmly. Propagated by cuttings of young wood, placed under a bell glass in sandy soil, and treated like Ericas (which see).

=A. capensis= (Cape).* fl.-heads bright crimson, solitary, terminal. April. l. narrow, lanceolate, alternate, entire. h. 3ft. Cape of Good Hope, 1821.

=ATHROTAXIS= (from athros, crowded together, and taxis, arrangement; in reference to the disposition of the scales of the cones). ORD. Coniferæ. A small genus of Tasmanian evergreen diœcious trees or shrubs, with small scale-like leaves, and small globular cones of many imbricated scales, with from three to six carpels under each scale. In very sheltered situations they will probably prove hardy; but, otherwise, they are only suitable for botanical collections. Increased by cuttings. This genus is almost universally misspelt Arthrotaxis.

=A. cupressoides= (Cypress-like). l. small, thick, leathery, spirally arranged, closely imbricated, deep glossy green. h. 30ft. A small, erect, and very slow growing tree, with numerous slender branchlets.

=A. Doniana= (Don's). A synonym of A. laxifolia.

=A. imbricata= (imbricated). A garden synonym of A. selaginoides.

=A. laxifolia= (loose-leaved). Differing from A. cupressoides in having longer, more pointed, open, and spreading leaves, which stand out from the stem in a Juniper-like fashion. Its lateral growths are rather pendulous. h. 20ft. to 25ft. SYN. A. Doniana.

=A. selaginoides= (Selago-like). l. glossy green, scale-like, spirally disposed, closely appressed to the shoots, branches and their ramifications very numerous. h. variable, up to 40ft. Very interesting, and quite distinct. SYN. A. imbricata (of gardens).

=ATHYRIUM.= See =Asplenium=.

=ATRAGENE= (a name originally given to Clematis Vitalba by Theophrastus). ORD. Ranunculaceæ. A genus of ornamental, hardy, climbing, deciduous shrubs, closely allied to Clematis, from which they differ in having numerous petals. They are increased by cuttings, which should be pricked in light sandy soil and placed under a hand glass; also by layering in the autumn. Both methods are slow; the layers should not be separated for about a year, when they will be vigorous plants. Seeds must be sown in early spring, in gentle heat; when the seedlings are large enough to handle, they should be pricked off and grown on in pots till they are strong plants.

=A. alpina= (alpine).* fl. blue, varying to white; petals ten to twelve, linear at the base, but dilated at the apex; peduncles one-flowered, longer than the leaves. May. l. biternate; leaflets ovate-lanceolate, acuminated, serrate. Mountainous parts of Europe, 1792. The white-flowered variety, named alba, is in cultivation. SYNS. A. austriaca and A. sibirica. See Fig. 189.

=A. americana= (American).* fl. large, purplish-blue; petals acute; peduncles one-flowered. May. l. whorled, in fours, leaflets stalked, cordate, lanceolate, acuminated, entire or somewhat lobed, or serrated. North America, 1797. SYN. Clematis verticillaris.

=A. austriaca= (Austrian). Synonymous with A. alpina.

=A. macropetala= (large-petaled).* fl. blue. Manchuria, 1870.

=A. sibirica= (Siberian). Synonymous with A. alpina.

=ATRIPLEX= (from a, not, and traphein, to nourish). Orach. ORD. Chenopodiaceæ. A genus of, for the most part, uninteresting weeds, of very variable form and habit, and having the calyx, which encloses the fruit, enlarging after flowering. For culture, see =Orach=.

=A. hortensis= (garden). An annual species from Tartary, of no value as an ornamental plant, but considered a very desirable substitute for spinach. The leaves must be gathered for use when young. The variety A. h. atro-sanguinea is a very pretty form, having handsome crimson leaves, and growing to a height of about 4ft. It is well worth growing with such plants as Amaranthus, &c.

=ATROPA= (name of mythological origin). Belladonna; Dwale. ORD. Solanaceæ. A small genus, having a campanulate regular corolla, and a leafy persistent calyx. The berries of this native herbaceous perennial are exceedingly poisonous. The plant is of no horticultural value.

=A. Belladonna.= fl. green and purple, solitary, pedunculate, drooping. Summer. Berries about the size of a small cherry. l. ovate, acuminate, 4in. to 8in. long h. 2ft. to 4ft. Britain. See Fig. 190.

=ATTALEA= (from attalus, magnificent; referring to the beauty of the genus). ORD. Palmaceæ. A genus of handsome stove palm trees, distinguished from other genera in having the pinnæ arranged vertically, and not horizontally. The leaves spring up almost perpendicularly at the base, but in the upper part arch over. The pinnæ stand at right angles to the rachis--which is very narrow in proportion to its thickness--and while those of the lower side of the arch hang straight down, those of the upper side point straight up. They thrive well in a mixture of peat and loam in equal quantities, and enjoy a copious supply of water. Summer temperature, 65deg. to 80deg.; winter, 55deg. to 60deg. All the species are robust trees; but, although several have been introduced, few appear to be generally grown.

=A. amygdalina= (Almond-fruited).* l. pinnate, 3ft. to 6ft. long; pinnæ 12in. to 18in. long, and about 1in. broad; terminal lobe broad and bifid, rich dark green. Stem slender. New Grenada. One of the best. SYN. A. nucifera.

=A. Cohune= (Cohune).* l. erect, ultimately spreading, pinnate, furnished with from three to four dozen dark green pinnæ, sometimes 18in. in length; petioles rounded, and dark brown below, flat and green upon the upper side. Plant unarmed. h. 50ft. or more in its native habitat. Honduras.

=A. compta= (decked). h. 22ft. Brazil, 1820.

=A. excelsa= (tall).* h. 70ft. Brazil, 1826.

=A. funifera= (rope-bearing). The Piassaba Palm. l. vivid deep green, very ornamental, and of economic value in Brazil. 1824. The sheathing bases of the leafstalks separate into a coarse black fringe, which is collected and exported to Europe, being used in the manufacture of brooms, brushes, &c.

=A. nucifera= (nut-bearing). A synonym of A. amygdalina.

=A. speciosa= (showy).* h. 70ft. Brazil, 1825.

=A. spectabilis= (remarkable). h. 70ft. Brazil, 1824.

=ATTENUATED.= Tapering gradually to a point.

=AUBERGINE=, or =EGG PLANT= (Solanum melongena, variety ovigerum). These plants, besides being useful for culinary purposes, are very ornamental, and present an attractive appearance on walls or trellises, or in the flower garden; and, as they do well in any ordinary rich garden soil, if the position is warm, they give a good variation to the general run of plants used for decorative effects. The Black-fruited kind is particularly suited for this purpose. Sow the seeds in a gentle heat, in the middle of April. As soon as the seedlings are large enough to handle, prick off into 4in. pots, replacing in heat till they root out freely. Gradually harden off by June, and then transfer to the positions where they are to grow. Let the plants be at least 2ft. apart, and place a strong stick to each one to support the fruit when it comes. For trellises, select the more moderate-sized varieties. In hot, dry weather, the application of liberal supplies of liquid manure tends to increase the size of the fruit, and also to make the foliage more vigorous and handsome. Where very large fruit are needed for show or other purposes, it is well to remove all but the best one on the plant, and, by careful feeding with liquid manure, specimens of from 10lb. to 12lb. weight can be had. The foliage should not be pinched, as this would prevent the free swelling of the fruit. Aubergines are not so much grown in England for culinary purposes as in France and Italy, where they are largely used in stews and soups. The following are the most desirable varieties: New York Purple, the largest kind grown, and although not as ornamental as the next, is quite as useful; Black-fruited, large black fruit, with blackish violet leaves; and White-fruited, the sort most generally cultivated. See Figs. 191 and 192.

=AUBRIETIA= (named after M. Aubriet, a famous French botanical draughtsman). ORD. Cruciferæ. A small genus of hardy evergreen trailers. Racemes opposite the leaves, and terminal, lax, few-flowered. Leaves ovate or oblong, entire or angularly toothed, hairy. They make excellent rock plants, and will thrive in a deep rich loam anywhere, excepting under the shelter of trees. Cuttings struck, or seeds sown, during April or May generally make fine, dense, cushion-like growths, if transplanted on to a somewhat cool or shaded border, and carefully lifted in the autumn; the cuttings are best "drawn," or grown until they are soft, in a frame before they are removed. Where a stock of old plants exist, layer the long slender branches any time after flowering, and cover with a mixture of sand and leaf soil; they will then root freely and establish themselves in time for spring blooming, for which purpose, when grown en masse, they are most useful. After flowering, they may be divided and transplanted.

=A. deltoidea= (deltoid).* fl. purple; petals twice the length of the calyx; pedicels short, filiform; racemes opposite the leaves and terminal, lax, few-flowered. Early spring. l. with one or two large teeth on each side (therefore they are rhomboidal, not truly deltoid), scabrous, with short branchy stellate hairs. h. 2in. to 4in. Naples, &c., 1710. There are several garden varieties, the best of which are described below; most of them are regarded as distinct species. See Fig. 193. (S. F. G. 628.)

=A. d. Bouganvillei= (Bouganville's).* fl. light violet purple, with very even imbricated petals. Habit very dwarf and compact, with short peduncles. A pretty form.

=A. d. Campbelli= (Campbell's).* Larger deep violet blue flowers, and of far more vigorous constitution than the typical form. Grandiflora comes very near this. SYN. A. Hendersonii.

=A. d. Eyrei= (Eyre's).* A very fine variety, with a free branching habit, and large flowers of a rich violet-purple colour, rather longer than broad. A. olympica is very near, if not identical with this.

=A. d. græca= (Grecian).* fl. light purple. h. 4in. Greece, 1872. One of the best and largest flowered forms; very vigorous grower, with neat compact habit. A variety of this, named superba, has rather deeper-coloured flowers, produced over a very extended period. (R. G. 697.)

=A. d. purpurea= (purple).* Larger flowers and more erect habit than the type. l. broader, with two to five teeth. Stems more leafy. There is a variegated form, which is very pleasing and effective, useful for carpeting or edging small beds. See Fig. 194.

=A. d. violacea= (violet).* This is a hybrid form, even finer than Campbelli, with large deep violet-purple flowers, fading to reddish-violet, and is more effective than any of the others.

=A. Hendersonii= (Henderson's). A synonym of A. d. Campbelli.

=AUCUBA= (the Japanese name of the shrub). ORD. Cornaceæ. A genus of hardy evergreen shrubs, thriving better than any other in the smoky atmosphere of dense cities. They grow in ordinary well-drained garden soil, and require no special culture. If grown in pots, they should be planted firmly in rather sandy yellow loam, with plenty of drainage. They should not be allowed too large pots, or an unfruitful growth is likely to result. During the growing season, an abundance of water is needed, which must be lessened when the plants are fully developed. If cultivated in the greenhouse or conservatory, they should be plunged out of doors during summer. To insure a good supply of the very ornamental berries, which are produced on the female plant, careful fertilising is necessary. The time for applying the pollen is when the pistil exudes a slightly gummy substance, and otherwise shows signs of maturity. When it happens, as is sometimes the case, that the male blooms are open and the pollen mature before the female blooms are ready, the pollen should be collected on a dry camel-hair pencil, transferred to a piece of glass, and covered over by another piece, both of which must also be dry. It may be applied afterwards when wanted, as it retains its power for some weeks. Propagated by cuttings, inserted in any light sandy soil, with or without a covering, in spring or autumn; or readily increased from seeds, sown as soon as ripe.

=A. himalaica= (Himalayan).* l. lanceolate, or lanceolate acuminate; branches of the panicle very pilose. Berries spherical, not oblong. Himalaya. (F. d. S. 12, 1271.)

=A. japonica= (Japanese).* l. opposite, petiolate, broad, ovate-lanceolate, acuminated, toothed, leathery, glabrous, shining, pale green, beautifully spotted with yellow, having the midrib rather prominent, the rest of the leaf reticulately veined. h. 6ft. to 10ft. Japan, 1783. The numerous varieties, both of the male and female forms, among which will be found many of great beauty, all differ, more or less, in the variegation of their leaves. They are in very general cultivation, and nearly every nurseryman has an assortment. Among the best of them are the following: albo-variegata, aurea, bicolor, latimaculata, limbata, longifolia, macrophylla, ovata, pygmæa, and pygmæa sulphurea.

=AUDOUINIA= (in honour of V. Audouin, a profound entomologist). ORD. Bruniaceæ. An ornamental greenhouse evergreen shrub, thriving in a mixture of peat and sandy loam. Propagated by cuttings of half-ripened wood, inserted in sand, under a bell glass, in gentle heat.

=A. capitata= (headed). fl. purple, crowded into oblong, spike-like, terminal heads. May. l. spirally inserted, a little keeled. Branches erect. h. 1ft. to 2ft. Cape of Good Hope, 1790.

=AULACOSPERMUM.= A synonym of =Pleurospermum= (which see).

=AULAX= (from aulax, a furrow; the under surface of the leaves of the original species being furrowed). ORD. Proteaceæ. Greenhouse evergreen shrubs, from the Cape of Good Hope, thriving best in a compost of fibrous loam, leaf soil, and sharp sand, with thorough drainage. Ripened cuttings, taken off at a joint, and inserted in pots of sandy soil, will root readily under a hand glass, in a cool house.

=A. pinifolia= (Pine-leaved). fl. yellow, racemose. July. l. filiform, channelled. h. 2ft. 1780.

=A. umbellata= (umbelled). fl. yellow. June. l. flat, spathulate*-linear. h. 2ft. 1774. (B. R. 12, 1015.)

=AURANTIACEÆ.= An order of trees or shrubs, including the Orange and Lemon trees. Flowers fragrant. Fruit fleshy, edible. Leaves alternate, articulated above the stem, filled with transparent oil cysts, giving them a dotted appearance. Well-known genera are Citrus and Limonia.

=AURICULA= (Primula Auricula). This favourite spring flower (see Fig. 195) was, at one time, almost universally cultivated, but has of late years fallen into much neglect; it is now, however, happily regaining enthusiastic admirers. Although its culture is not nearly so difficult as is generally understood, a few special items of treatment are nevertheless necessary to grow it successfully.

Frames for the reception of Auriculas should be prepared, with a good bottom drainage, and an inside staging, similar to the back stage of a lean-to greenhouse, arranged as near the glass as possible. If the frames are about 4ft. wide, they will be very convenient; 1ft. deep in the front, and about 3ft. at the back. This will allow for a good stage arrangement. Of course, it is not necessary to construct an expensive staging, as common boards can be laid upon pots of various heights, the same results being practically secured. These frames should face north from May to October, and south in winter, during which latter time it will be necessary to well cover the sides with straw or brake. When frosty, the lights must also be mated; but, unless there is absolute fear of frost, the glass should not be covered, as the more light the plants receive the better. On all suitable occasions, both during summer and winter, air must be freely admitted, and a good look-out kept during showery weather; hence it may be necessary to tilt the lights with blocks rather than remove them entirely. The latter plan should be adopted whenever practicable, especially during early spring, and after they are well established in their fresh pots in summer. This will greatly assist to ripen the crown, and produce hard, stout foliage, which will endure the winter much better than if grown with less air. Many cultivators prefer small span or lean-to houses to frames; and it must be admitted that these are better, more convenient, and in every way more beneficial. Simple, inexpensive structures, no higher than is absolutely necessary for convenience, with top and side ventilation, will meet all requirements; and if a 2in. hot-water pipe is arranged next the eaves inside, it will be a decided advantage during very severe weather.

Soil. The best compost that can be prepared for Auriculas is as follows: Four parts good fibrous loam, one part well-rotted cow manure, one part good leaf soil, and one part coarse river or silver sand, with a little charcoal or pounded oyster-shells added. Carefully mix the whole together before using. The loam should be stored about twelve months previous to being used, and it should be selected from districts with a fine atmosphere; the turf should be cut about 3in. thick. Cow manure that has lain for a year or so, and been subjected to sharp frosts, is most suitable, as insect life, which it very probably contains, is thereby destroyed, and the whole materially sweetened.

Potting. This operation requires to be carefully done as soon after flowering as possible, unless it is desired to save seed, when it must be deferred until the seed is ripened. May and June are the best months for general potting, and whatever the size of the pots used, they should be carefully and thoroughly drained. After a good layer of potsherds, place some charcoal, leaf mould, or spent hops. Many good growers use the last very advantageously. For good flowering plants, 48-sized pots are used, many cultivators preferring glazed pots to the unglazed; but such are not absolutely necessary to ensure success. Before repotting, remove most of the old soil, and with a sharp knife cut off any bruised or cankered portion of roots; the stout tap-root may also be cut away if devoid of fresh rootlets. Do not pot very firmly. Remove the plants to their summer quarters, withholding water for a few days, and keep the frames close. About a week after potting, water may be advantageously given, the plants will then soon resume root-action, and air may be admitted afterwards on all suitable occasions. The collar or neck of the plant must be left well above the surface of the soil.

Watering is a point that requires careful attention, as neglect in this matter will result in failure. During the growing season, Auriculas require an abundance of water; in fact, they must never be allowed to get dry. In the winter, they must only be watered when they are really dry, especially during a severe season. Care must be taken to avoid watering the leaves, particularly in early spring, as this tends to spoil the effect of the charming farinose foliage. Above all, water must not be allowed to stand in the heart of the plant, as such will inevitably cause incipient decay. Hence it is necessary to keep a sharp lookout for drippings from the glass, and to maintain tightly-glazed frames. On all occasions, decaying leaves must be removed, and especially during winter.

Top-dressing. About the middle or end of February, when the plants commence new growth, the surface soil should be removed about an inch or so deep, and the pots re-filled with a rich compost made up of the following: Two parts of turfy loam, one of rotten cow or hen manure, and one of leaf soil; if a little Standen's Manure is added, the compost will be improved. After this top-dressing, the plants may be watered freely.

Propagation by Offsets. When top-dressing, any offsets with roots should be removed, and as soon after as possible the remaining ones should be taken off, as it is much more desirable to do so early than later on, when repotting; for, when making the first growth, they are the more likely to root better, and stand a greater chance of making good plants before the season is over. Fill well-drained 3in. pots with sandy soil, and arrange about four offsets round the sides; place under a bell glass, or in a close handlight, watering very sparingly so as to prevent them damping off. They will soon establish themselves, after which air may be admitted, and the plants may ultimately be potted off singly. To induce choice varieties to make offsets, the top of the old plant should be removed and treated like the others, when, as a rule, several shoots will be produced, which in due time may be removed. By this means, a nice stock of the rarer kinds may be obtained; whereas, if such a course were not adopted, the rate of increase would be extremely slow.

Flowering. During the flowering period, watering, as already stated, must be carefully attended to, for if the plants are allowed to get dry, the flowers will quickly shrivel. They must also be kept well shaded from sunshine, which quickly destroys the delicate blossoms. As the trusses are developing, particular attention must be given to night protection. It is, perhaps, better to cover every night than to run the risk of exposing the unexpanded flowers to frost, as the effect is very prejudicial; in fact, if subject to frost, smooth even flowers may not be expected.

Seed Saving and Sowing. The only way to obtain new varieties is by seed; hence the value of careful seed-saving will be apparent. Severe discrimination must be exercised in the selection of parents, and the flowers must be very carefully crossed. The anthers should be removed from the pistillate parent, if possible, before expansion, so as to prevent any possibility of self-fertilisation; and, when the stigma is ready, the pollen must be conveyed by means of a small camel's-hair brush, care being taken not to mistake the brushes used in different classes. It has been observed in Auriculas that the issue from crossbred seed favours the pollen more than the pistillate parent; hence the necessity of selecting good pollen parents. It is best to confine hybridisation to separate classes--i.e., cross a Self with a Self, and a Green-edged variety with another of the same class. The importance of selecting the best in each class scarcely needs suggestion, having regard to constitution as well as the quality of the flowers. The seed should be sown as soon as ripe, or early in March, in well-drained pots, filled with sandy soil, which must be well watered previous to sowing. When this operation is completed, the seed must be lightly covered with coarse sand, a sheet of glass placed over the pot, and the latter stood in the hand glass, where the offsets are rooted. Some of the seedlings will appear in a month, but the bulk from that sown when ripe will not be seen until the following spring; while others will germinate even during the ensuing summer. The late comers should be particularly cared for, as they frequently produce the best varieties. When the seedlings are large enough, they must be pricked off in pots of sandy soil; and, when well established, potted off singly into small thumb pots, and afterwards encouraged as judgment suggests. Some growers allow the seedlings to remain in the store pots till they flower, when the best are kept, and those not required disposed of.

Insect Pests. Green fly are often very troublesome, and should be exterminated as speedily as possible, by tobacco fumigation, or by dipping the plants in a solution of Gishurst's Compound, or carefully prepared Fir-tree Oil, all of which are effectual. Many authorities denounce fumigation, while others advocate it. The roots are also attacked by a mealy louse, named Trama auriculæ, which clusters about the roots and collar of the plants, sucking nutriment therefrom; and although, provided they do not attack the collar, they have no greatly prejudicial effect on the plant, yet it is desirable to exterminate them. The only effectual way of accomplishing this is to remove all soil, and thoroughly cleanse the roots and collar in a solution of soft soap, with a little Fir-tree Oil added. Of course, this is most easily managed when repotting; and, unless the plants are very badly infested, it would not be advisable to run the risk of root washing later in the year.

Classes. Auriculas are now arranged in five classes, four of which constitute what are known as "show or stage Auriculas," while the other is known by the name of "Alpines." Each class is characterised by special points of distinction, which, in the opinion of the strict "florists" school, it is of the utmost importance to observe; and as there is room for systematists in this, as well as in any other branch of floriculture, we will follow the arrangement usually adopted, and describe the distinguishing features of, and enumerate some of the best varieties in, each class, with their raisers' names attached:

=Green-edged.= Outer edge green, or but sparingly dusted with powder; next, a zone of colour known as the body colour, which varies, the darkest being most esteemed; both edges of this zone should be even, especially the inner one, but there are few flowers perfect in this respect. Next to the body-colour is the paste, which occupies the space between the inner circle of the latter and the throat, this should be pure and dense, with a distinctly circular outline at the throat; the throat and tube should be bright yellow. Of course, this ideal standard has not yet been reached, as there are supposed defects in all or some sections of the flowers at present known. Leading Varieties: ADMIRAL NAPIER (Campbell), ALDERMAN WISBEY (Headley), APOLLO (Beeston), CHAMPION (Page), COLONEL TAYLOR (Leigh), DUKE OF WELLINGTON (Dickson), FREEDOM (Booth), GENERAL NEILL (Traill), HIGHLAND BOY (Pollitt), IMPERATOR (Litton), LADY ANN WILBRAHAM (Oliver), LORD PALMERSTON (Campbell), LOVELY ANN (Oliver), LYCURGUS (Smith), PRINCE OF GREENS (Traill), PRINCE OF WALES (Ashton).

=Grey-edged.= Edge heavily dusted with powder, so as almost to hide the normal green colour; other points same as the Green-edged varieties. Leading varieties: ALEXANDER MEIKLEJOHN (Kay), CHAS. E. BROWN (Headley), COMPLETE (Sykes), CONQUEROR OF EUROPE (Waterhouse), DR. HORNER (Read), F. D. HORNER (Simonite), GENERAL BOLIVAR (Smith), GEORGE LEVICK (Walker), GEORGE LIGHTBODY (Headley), JOHN WATERSTON (Cunningham), LANCASHIRE HERO (Lancashire), RICHARD HEADLEY (Lightbody), ROBERT TRAILL (Lightbody).

=White-edged.= Edge so heavily dusted with farina as to completely hide the green and give it a white appearance; the powder frequently as dense as on the paste portion; other points like the first. Leading varieties: ACME (Read), ANNE SMITH (Smith), ARABELLA (Headley), BEAUTY (Traill), BRIGHT VENUS (Lee), CATHERINA (Summerscales), CONSERVATIVE (Douglas), COUNTESS OF WILTON (Cheetham), EARL GROSVENOR (Lee), FAVORITE (Taylor), FRANK SIMONITE (Simonite), GLORY (Taylor), JOHN SIMONITE (Walker), NE PLUS ULTRA (Smith), REGULAR (Ashworth), SMILING BEAUTY (Heap), SYLVIA (Douglas), TRUE BRITON (Hepworth).

=Selfs.= Tube bright yellow, and circular at the top; paste dense, pure, with an even edge; all the rest of the flower of one colour, without shades or edging; any colour holds good. Leading varieties: APOLLO (Hay), BLACKBIRD (Spalding), C. J. PERRY (Turner), DUKE OF ARGYLE (Campbell), FORMOSA (Smith), GARIBALDI (Pohlman), HELEN LANCASTER (Pohlman), LORD OF LORNE (Campbell), MAZINNA (Pohlman), METEOR FLAG (Lightbody), METROPOLITAN (Spalding), MRS. DOUGLAS (Simonite), MRS. STURROCK (Martin), OTHELLO (Netherwood), PIZARRO (Campbell), TOPSY (Kaye).

=Alpines.= Centre golden yellow, or white, and destitute of powder; body colour various; edge one-coloured, shading off paler towards the margin. These are much hardier than any of the other classes, and will do well outside in most places. Leading varieties: A. F. BARRON (Turner), BEATRICE (Turner), BLACK PRINCE (Turner), BRONZE QUEEN (Turner), COLONEL SCOTT (Turner), DIADEM (Gorton), DUCHESS OF CONNAUGHT (Turner), EVENING STAR (Turner), GEORGE LIGHTBODY (Turner), JOHN LEECH (Turner), MRS. BALL (Turner), MRS. DODWELL (Turner), MRS. LLEWELLYN (Turner), MRS. MEIKLEJOHN (Meiklejohn), MRS. THOMSON (Turner), QUEEN VICTORIA (Turner), RUBENS (Turner), SAILOR PRINCE (Turner), SELINA (Turner), SPANGLE (Turner), SYDNEY (Turner), TRIUMPHANT (Turner).

=AURICULATE.= Having ear-like appendages.

=AUSTRIAN ROSE.= See =Rosa lutea=.

=AVENA= (derivation obscure). The Oat. ORD. Gramineæ. A genus of grasses with loose panicles and compressed spikelets. Of agricultural importance only, with the following exception, which is an annual of easy culture in ordinary garden soil. Propagated by seeds, sown in spring or autumn.

=A. sterilis= (barren). The Animated Oat. fl. in drooping panicles of large spikelets. h. 1-1/2ft. to 2ft. Barbary, 1640. An elegant plant.

=AVENS.= See =Geum=.

=AVENUES.= In forming an Avenue, the plan must neither be tortuous nor of a "tedious sameness," but a gradually winding line should, above all, be obtained, which must in no way interfere with the view from the house. About 12ft. is the width usually allowed for the road, but this depends upon individual taste or idea--this remark applies to planting in double rows, the trees forming a series of triangles, or in single rows. The distance across the road from one row of trees to those opposite should be at least 24ft. The Lime is extensively used for Avenues on account of its regular growth and the shade it affords. The Cedar of Lebanon is one of the best and most suitable evergreens. The Dutch Elm is used because of its rapid growth, and forms one of the best deciduous trees for this purpose. The well-known Horse Chestnut, in sheltered spots, is very ornamental, as is also the Spanish Chestnut; the latter spreads rapidly. Where immediate effect is required, nothing gives more satisfaction than the White Poplar; it grows in a wet soil better than anything else. Deodars, Araucarias, Douglas Pine, the Mexican, Chinese, and Japanese Cypresses, and many others, are eminently suited for Avenue planting. Shrubs and herbaceous plants should be introduced between the trees, and so remove any bareness that may occur. Diervilla rosea, and its variegated form, Aucubas, Rhododendrons, Hypericums, and many others, could be mentioned to serve this purpose. A moderately good soil will be found to answer generally.

=AVERRHOA= (in honour of Averrhoes, of Cordova, a celebrated Arabian physician, who resided in Spain during the domination of the Moors, about the middle of the twelfth century; he translated Aristotle into Arabic). ORD. Geraniaceæ. Ornamental stove trees, thriving in loam and peat. Half-ripened cuttings will strike in sand, under a hand glass, about April, with bottom heat. The leaves of the first-named species are irritable to the touch.

=A. Bilimbi= (Bilimbi-tree). fl. reddish purple, disposed in racemes, rising from the trunk. May. fr. oblong, somewhat resembling a small cucumber, with a thin, smooth, green rind, filled with a grateful acid juice, and the substance and seeds not unlike that of a cucumber. l. alternate, with from five to ten pairs of ovate-lanceolate, entire, smooth leaflets on short stalks. h. 8ft. to 15ft. Native country unknown, 1791. (B. F. S. 117.)

=A. Carambola.= Carambola-tree. fl. red, scattered, disposed in short racemes, usually rising from the smaller branches, but sometimes from the larger ones, and even the trunk. fr. the size of a hen's egg, acutely five-cornered, with a thin, yellow rind, and a clear watery pulp. l. alternate, with about four to five pairs of ovate, acuminated, entire, stalked leaflets, the outer ones largest. h. 14ft. to 20ft. 1793. This, as well as the first-named species, is cultivated throughout the hotter parts of India, but where it occurs truly wild is not known.

=AVOCADO PEAR.= See =Persea gratissima=.

=AWL-SHAPED.= Narrow-pointed, resembling an awl.

=AWLWORT.= See =Subularia=.

=AXIL.= Literally the armpit; in plants applied to the angle formed by union of the leaf and stem.

=AXILLARIA.= See =Polygonatum=.

=AXILLARY.= Growing in the axil of anything.

=AYRSHIRE ROSE.= See =Rosa repens capreolata=.

=AZALEA= (from azaleos, dry, arid; in allusion to the habitat of the plant). ORD. Ericaceæ. A genus of very popular and beautiful hardy or greenhouse plants. The species enumerated were included under Rhododendron by Don, Loudon, and others, contrary to the classification of Linnæus, but the distinctive characters are not consistent. In this genus, the stamens are usually five, but in Rhododendron ten is the typical number.

Ghent or American Azaleas. These are extremely popular hardy deciduous shrubs. When plants are grown in the open, artificial crossing will be unnecessary; but this method must be employed upon those grown in the cool greenhouse, if well fertilised seeds are required. The seed should be gathered and sown when ripe in a large shallow frame containing from 2in. to 3in. of peat, over which more peat must be laid very level by means of a fine sieve; or they may be kept until early the following spring. No covering will be necessary, but a thorough watering with a fine-rosed water-pot must be given. The lights should be darkened, and the frames kept close until the young seedlings begin to appear, when they must have air (carefully admitted), shade, and a daily sprinkling of water. By the autumn, they will be large enough to transplant in small clumps into boxes of peat and coarse sand, and to place in other frames, or in the open. In each case, they will need watering, shading, and to be kept close until growth commences. The hardier the plants are before winter commences, the better; but a protection of mats or similar material will prevent the probability of their being killed by severe frosts. During the following season, they will only require water during dry weather, and no protection need be afforded this winter. The next spring, they should be planted out singly in beds, sufficiently wide apart to allow the development of two years growth. If an upright growth is being made, the leading shoot must be shortened, in order to secure dwarf, well-branched plants. The same methods should be employed on a smaller scale where but a few are wanted. Grafting is largely practised to increase the stock of named varieties or choice seedlings, the stock employed being A. pontica. This process, of course, ensures the quicker production of flowering plants. Layering in March, encasing the part buried with moss, is also some times practised; but the layer must be left two years before separating. Cuttings of the last year's wood, 2in. or 3in. long, taken with a heel, root readily in sand; about the end of August is the best time for so doing. If they are pricked off in pots or pans of sandy soil, and kept in a cool frame until they are calloused, and afterwards introduced into a slight bottom heat, they root quicker, but this is not absolutely essential. When placed outside, they should be covered with a handlight for about two months, and, at the end of this time, air should be gradually given and increased. Ghent Azaleas are now forced extensively for the market as well as in private gardens; and, by judicious culture, they can be had in full blossom by Christmas. With this end in view, they should be grown in pots, and have the growth prematurely completed soon after flowering with the aid of a little artificial heat; after which they may be placed outside. During very hot and dry weather, the north side of a wall is necessary, to prevent their flowering in the autumn. The same plants must only be forced every alternate year. Commence to place the plants in heat in October, and keep up a succession until the following March. The best plants for forcing purposes are obtained from the Continent, where they are grown in enormous quantities. When grown permanently out of doors, the most suitable soil is peat and rough sand mixed. Failing this, leaf mould, maiden loam, and sand, will be found satisfactory. In many cases, we have known them to flourish in ordinary garden soil.

The following varieties of Ghent Azaleas are distinct, and all worth growing; ADMIRAL DE RUYTER, deep red-scarlet, very fine; ALTACLERENSIS, bright yellow; AMŒNA, light pink; CARNEA ELEGANS, pale pink, shaded sulphur; COCCINEA MAJOR, dark scarlet, very fine; CUPREA SPLENDENS, rich pink, shaded yellow; DECORATA, lovely pink; DIRECTEUR CHARLES BAUMANN, rich vermilion, spotted yellow; ELECTOR, rich orange-scarlet; GEANT DES BATAILLES, deep crimson, very fine; MADAME JOSEPH BAUMANN, bright pink, very free and good; MARIA VERSCHAFFELT, shaded pink and yellow; MIRABILIS, very lovely pink; MORTERI, rich yellow, shaded rosy-red; PONTICA MACRANTHA, rich deep sulphur, very large and fine; PRINCESSE D'ORANGE, salmon-pink, very fine; SANGUINEA, deep crimson; VISCOSA FLORIBUNDA, pure white, very fragrant.

=A. arborescens= (tree-like).* fl. large, reddish, not clammy, leafy; tube of corolla longer than the segments; calyx leafy, with the segments oblong and acute. May. l., of the flower buds large, yellowish-brown, surrounded with a fringed white border, obovate, rather obtuse, smooth on both surfaces, glaucous beneath, ciliated on the margins, and having the midrib almost smooth. h. 10ft. to 20ft. Pennsylvania, 1818. Deciduous species.

=A. balsaminæflora= (Balsam-flowered).* fl. bright salmony red, finely double and rosette-like, the segments regularly imbricated, much resembling in general appearance the blooms of a Camellia-flowered Balsam. Japan. It is a distinct species, and remains in bloom for a considerable period; the flowers are invaluable for bouquets. See Fig. 196, for which we are indebted to Mr. Bull.

=A. calendulacea= (Marigold-like).* fl. yellow, red, orange, and copper coloured, large, not clammy, rather naked; tube of corolla hairy, shorter than the segments. May. l. oblong, pubescent on both surfaces, at length hairy. h. 2ft. to 6ft. Pennsylvania to Carolina, 1806. This is said to be the handsomest shrub in North America. There are several varieties of it in cultivation. Hardy; deciduous. (B. M. 1721, 2143.)

=A. hispida= (bristly). fl. white, with a red border and a tinge of red on the tube, which is wide and scarcely longer than the segments, very clammy, leafy; stamens ten. July. l. long-lanceolate, hispid above, and smooth beneath, glaucous on both surfaces, ciliated on the margins, and having the nerve bristly beneath. Branches straight, and very hispid. h. 10ft. to 15ft. New York, &c., 1734. A hardy deciduous species. (W. D. B. 1, 6.)

=A. ledifolia= (Ledum-leaved).* fl. pure white, showy; corolla campanulate; in threes at the extremities of the branches; calyx erect, glandular, and viscid. March. l. elliptic-lanceolate. h. 2ft. to 6ft. China, 1819. The whole shrub is very hairy. Hardy; evergreen. SYN. A. liliiflora. See Fig. 197. (B. M. 2901.)

=A. liliiflora= (lily-flowered). Synonymous with A. ledifolia.

=A. nudiflora= (naked-flowered).* fl. in terminal clustered racemes, appearing before the leaves, rather naked, not clammy; tube of corolla longer than the segments; teeth of calyx short, rather rounded; stamens much exserted. June. l. lanceolate-oblong, nearly smooth and green on both surfaces, ciliated on the margins, having the midrib bristly beneath, and woolly above. h. 3ft. to 4ft. North America, 1734. This species hybridises very freely with A. calendulacea, A. pontica, A. viscosa, &c., and descriptive lists of a host of hybrids of almost every conceivable shade, both double and single, are to be found in continental and home catalogues, to which the reader is referred. Hardy. (W. F. A., t. 36.)

=A. pontica= (Pontic).* fl. leafy, clammy; corolla funnel-shaped; stamens very long. May. l. shining, ovate, oblong, pilose, ciliated. h. 4ft. to 6ft. Levant, Caucasus, &c., 1793. The varieties of this species are also numerous, differing principally in the colour of the flowers and the hue of the leaves. The flowers are of all shades, and frequently striped. The name generally adopted, as above, must not be confounded with Rhododendron ponticum. If the genus Azalea is merged into Rhododendron, as is done by most systematists, this plant must be called by Don's name, Rhododendron flavum. (I. H. 1864, 415.)

=A. procumbens= (procumbent). See =Loiseleria procumbens=.

=A. speciosa= (showy).* fl. scarlet and orange coloured; corolla silky, with obtuse, ciliated, lanceolate, undulated segments; calyx pubescent. May. l. lanceolate, ciliated, acute at both ends. Branches hairy. h. 3ft. to 4ft. North America. The varieties of above are several, varying in the shape of the leaves and the colour of the flowers. (L. B. C. 1255)

=A. viscosa= (clammy).* fl. white, sweet-scented, in terminal clusters, downy, clammy, leafy; tube of corolla as long as the segments. July. l. oblong-ovate, acute, smooth, and green on both surfaces, ciliated on the margins, having the midrib bristly. h. 2ft. to 4ft. North America, 1734. Like nearly all species belonging to this genus, the varieties are many, varying in the colour of the flowers and otherwise. (T. S. M. 438.)

=A. v. nitida= (shining).* fl. white, tinged with red, clammy, leafy; tube of corolla a little longer than the segments. April. l. oblanceolate, rather mucronate, leathery, smooth on both surfaces, shining above, having the nerve bristly beneath, with revolute, ciliated margins. h. 2ft. to 4ft. New York, 1812. Hardy; deciduous. (B. R. 5, 414.)

Indian or Chinese Azaleas. This is a section of greenhouse evergreen varieties obtained from A. indica (which see), blooming continuously from November to June, or even later, and of the greatest value for all purposes, whether for decoration, cutting, or exhibition. Cultivation: Thorough drainage is essential, and a compost of half peat, the other half made up of fibrous loam, leaf soil, and sand, in equal quantities. They cannot have too much light and air, and may be grown to almost any size by shifting from one pot to a size larger. In repotting, the whole of the crocks should be taken away from the base of the ball of soil and roots, and the top should also be removed till the fine roots are reached. The plant should then be put in the new pot, and the additional soil rammed firm, in order to prevent the water running through it, and thus depriving the plant of any benefit therefrom. In all cases, the roots near the stem must be above the soil, so that the water may not sink in next the stem, or death will most certainly ensue. After potting, for a few days the plants should be kept close and freely syringed, and as the growth is completed, they may be well hardened off. The best time for potting is after flowering, before the new growth has been made. From October to June the plants should be in the greenhouse, and during the other months in a cold frame, or plunged in pots in the open; or, what is preferable in favoured localities, planted out in prepared beds; they will thus be kept cleaner, and the growth will be much superior. In autumn they may be lifted and repotted, placing in a shady position for a few days. Water in abundance must be given throughout the blooming and growing season; and the plants must, on no account, be allowed to become dry. At the same time, a proper amount of care is most essential, as an excessive amount of moisture is equally as fatal as drought. Cuttings should be placed in sand under a bell glass with moderate bottom heat; half-ripened ones are preferable. They must be cut up to a joint--the base of a leaf--the lower leaves for an inch stripped off, and the stem stuck into the sand, which should lay, about an inch thick, on the top of sandy peat soil; the bottom of the cuttings should reach, but not go quite into, the soil. The whole should be covered with a bell glass, which must be wiped dry every morning. Soon after the cuttings have commenced growing, place them in small pots. They are also very largely and easily increased by grafting; indeed, this is the only satisfactory method of securing standards. Seeds may be sown similar to the last section, but in the greenhouse, and, when well up, pricked out into little pots 1in. apart. Azaleas are liable to the attacks of thrips and red spider, the latter being especially troublesome if the plants are in a dry position; frequent syringing will materially help to eradicate both pests. If insufficient, syringe with a solution of Gishurst's Compound.

=A. amœna= (pleasing). fl. almost campanulate, rich crimson, about 1-1/2in. across, hose-in-hose conformation, produced in great profusion. April. l. small, size of the common Box, hairy. h. 1ft. China. This is an elegant little neat and compact growing shrub, which has proved to be quite hardy in England. (B. M. 4728.) A very beautiful series of hybrids have been obtained by crossing this species with A. indica, which are most serviceable and free. The following are most desirable: LADY MUSGRAVE, light carmine; MISS BUIST, pure white; MRS. CARMICHAEL, rich magenta, shaded crimson; PRIME MINISTER, soft pink, deep shaded, very free; PRINCESS BEATRICE, light mauve, very distinct and free; PRINCESS MAUDE, rich magenta, rose shaded.

=A. indica= (Indian).* fl. campanulate, terminal, solitary or twin; calycine teeth long-lanceolate, obtuse, ciliated, spreading. l. cuneate-lanceolate, finely crenelated, covered with sharp, close-pressed rigid hairs, attenuated at both ends. Branches also covered with sharp, close-pressed, rigid hairs. h. 3ft. to 6ft. China, 1808. See Fig. 198. There are a great number of garden seedlings of the Indian Azalea, including every shade and colour. A selection to any extent may be made from the nurserymen's catalogues, but, for the guidance of the amateur, we have made a rigid selection of the best double and single varieties.

Double-Flowered: A. BORSIG, pure white; ALICE, rich deep rose, blotched with vermilion, very fine; BERNARD ANDRÉ, dark violet-purple, large, semi-double; CHARLES LEIRENS, dark salmon, good form and substance; COMTESSE EUGENIE DE KERCHOVE, white, flaked with red-carmine, semi-double; DOMINIQUE VERVAENE, bright orange, very fine; DR. MOORE, deep rose, with white and violet shading, very fine; EMPEREUR DE BRÉSIL, rich rose, banded white, the upper petals marked red; FRANCIS DEVOS, deep crimson; IMBRICATA, pure white, sometimes flaked with rose; MADAME IRIS LEFEBVRE, dark orange, shaded with bright violet, and blotched with chocolate; PRESIDENT GHELLINCK DE WALLE, intense rose, upper petals blotched with lake, and crimson-rayed; SOUVENIR DE PRINCE ALBERT, rich rose peach, broadly margined with pure white, very free and beautiful.

Single-Flowered: CHARMER, rich amaranth, very large; COMTESSE DE BEAUFORT, rich rose, the upper petals blotched with crimson; CRITERION, rich salmon pink, white-margined; DUC DE NASSAU, rich rosy-purple, very free and large; ECLATANTE, deep crimson, rose shaded; FANNY IVERY, deep salmon-scarlet, blotched magenta, very fine; FLAMBEAU, rich glowing crimson, extremely showy; JOHN GOULD VEITCH, lilac-rose, netted and bordered white, and blotched with saffron, very showy; LA SUPERBE, rich lake, bordered orange, and black spotted, a very fine variety; LA VICTOIRE, centre reddish, white towards the edge, the upper petals spotted with maroon-crimson; LOUIS VON BADEN, pure white, a grand variety; MADAME CHARLES VAN ECKHAUTE, pure white, with beautifully crisped edges, of excellent form and substance; MADAME VAN HOUTTE, richly flaked with carmine and rose, very large and free; MARQUIS OF LORNE, brilliant scarlet, of the finest form and substance; MRS. TURNER, bright pink, white-margined, and spotted with crimson; PRESIDENT VAN DEN HECKE, white, striped and speckled with crimson, with a yellow centre; PRINCESS ALICE, pure white, one of the best; REINE DES PAYS-BAS, rich violet-pink, margined with white; ROI D'HOLLANDE, dark blood-red, spotted with black; SIGISMUND RUCKER, rich rose, white bordered, with crimson blotches; WILSON SAUNDERS, pure white, striped and blotched with vivid red, very fine.

=A. mollis= (soft). Synonymous with A. sinensis.

=A. sinensis= (Chinese). fl. campanulate, downy, flame coloured; stamens equal in length to the petals. May. l. slowly deciduous, elliptic, acutish, pilosely pubescent, feather-nerved, with ciliated margins, greyish beneath. h. 3ft. to 4ft. China and Japan. A large number of seedlings and hybrids from this species are in cultivation, known under the name of Japanese Azaleas, and all are valuable for the decoration of the cool conservatory, or for outdoor work. SYN. A. mollis. (L. B. C. 885.)

=AZARA= (in honour of J. N. Azara, a Spanish promoter of science, but of botany in particular). ORD. Bixineæ. Showy evergreen, hardy and half-hardy shrubs, with alternate, simple, stalked stipulate leaves, and fragrant flowers. They thrive well in a compost of loam, leaf soil, and sand. Ripened cuttings root readily if placed in sand, under glass, in slight heat. It is believed that all the species enumerated will prove hardy if a slight winter protection in midland and northern counties be afforded. This precaution will be unnecessary in more southern parts.

=A. dentata= (toothed). fl. yellow; corymbs sessile, few-flowered. June. l. ovate, serrated, scabrous, tomentose beneath; stipules leafy, unequal in size. h. 12ft. Chili, 1830. (B. R. 1728.)

=A. Gillesii= (Gilles').* fl. bright yellow; panicles axillary, densely packed. Spring. l. large, Holly-like, ovate, coarsely toothed, smooth. h. 15ft. Chili, 1859. (B. M. 5178.)

=A. integrifolia= (entire-leaved).* fl. yellow, on numerous short axillary spikes, of an aromatic fragrance. Autumn. l. obovate or oblong, entire, smooth; stipules equal, permanent. h. 18ft. Chili (about Conception), 1832. The variegated-leaved form, although rare, is very ornamental. The variegation consists of greenish-yellow, with a blotch of dark green, and in a young state edged with deep pink.

=A. microphylla= (small-leaved).* fl. greenish, corymbose, succeeded by numerous small orange-coloured berries. Autumn. l. small, distichous, obovate, obtuse, dark-shining green. h. 12ft. Chiloe and Valdavia, 1873. This shrub is very ornamental as a standard, and also excellent for covering walls. Quite hardy. See Fig. 199, for which we are indebted to Messrs. Veitch and Sons.

=BABIANA= (from babianer, the Dutch for baboon; in reference to the bulbs being eaten by baboons). ORD. Iridaceæ. A genus of very ornamental bulbous plants confined to the Cape of Good Hope, with the exception of a single species, which is found in Socotra. Flowers occasionally fragrant, and generally characterised by their rich self-colours, or the striking contrast of very distinct hues in the same flower; perianth regular and symmetrical, with six ovate divisions (tube varying in length). Stems from 6in. to 9in. high, arising from a small bulb-like corm, and bearing tapering plaited leaves, which are usually more or less densely covered with long hairs; the scapes are racemose, each bearing about six or more simultaneously expanding flowers. They may be successfully grown in pots. By this plan there is, perhaps, less danger of loss, and their flowering season can be prolonged considerably. A light sandy compost, with a small proportion of well-decayed manure, is required, and thorough drainage is also most essential. Use 48 or 60-sized pots, placing four or five corms in the former, and two or three in the latter, and keep moderately dry until they commence to form roots. October is the best time to pot. As soon as the plants appear above ground, water may be carefully given, and the supply proportionately increased as the plants develop. Very weak liquid manure, applied twice a week, just as the spikes are pushing up, will be beneficial. When the flowers fade, and the stems show signs of decay, the supply of water must be gradually decreased, thus inducing the thorough maturation of the corms, upon which the next season's display depends. When quite down, store the pots in a dry place till the time for repotting arrives, when the corms should be carefully cleaned, and all offsets separated, the latter being potted up in the same way as the parent corms in order to produce flowering specimens; or they may be kept in a pot of sand and planted in a warm border outside in March. Outdoor culture: A sheltered, sunny, and well-drained situation is most essential to success. Although not absolutely necessary, it is preferable to replant every year in early spring, placing the bulbs about 5in. or 6in. deep, with a little sand sprinkled about them. Planting may, of course, be done in autumn, when it will be necessary to cover with cocoa nut fibre refuse to the depth of 5in. or 6in. In warm, sheltered situations, the corms may remain undisturbed; but, as a rule, it is desirable to remove them late in autumn, when the leaves are dead, and store them in dry sand through the winter in a cool, airy position, free of frost. Mixed Babianas may be purchased from dealers at a cheap rate, and, for general purposes, they are best to plant. Propagation may be effected by offsets and seeds. The former is the best and quickest method. The offsets should be grown in boxes or planted out in light rich soil until large enough for flowering. Seeds sown in pans, and placed in a gentle heat, will grow at almost any time; the young plants will require to be carefully transplanted each season until they develop into blooming corms.

=B. cœrulescens= (bluish). Synonymous with B. plicata.

=B. disticha= (two-ranked).* fl. with a Hyacinth-like fragrance; perianth pale blue; divisions narrow; margins undulated or crisped. June, July. l. lanceolate, acute. h. 6in. 1774. (B. M. 626.)

=B. plicata= (folded).* fl. with a very fragrant clove carnation-like perfume; perianth pale violet-blue; anthers blue, and stigmas yellow. May, June. l. lanceolate, distinctly plicate. h. 6in. 1774. SYNS. B. cœrulescens, B. reflexa. (B. M. 576.)

=B. reflexa= (reflexed). Synonymous with B. plicata.

=B. ringens= (gaping).* fl. scarlet, irregular in form, gaping, very handsome. May, June. l. narrow, acute, deep green. h. 6in. to 9in. 1752. (L. B. C. 1006.)

=B. sambucina= (Elder-scented). fl. bluish-purple, with an Elder-like fragrance; perianth divisions spreading. April, May. l. lanceolate, slightly plicate. h. 6in. to 9in. 1799. SYN. Gladiolus sambucinus. (B. M. 1019.)

=B. stricta= (strict).* fl., perianth segments narrow, acute, outer three white, inner three lilac-blue, with a dark blotch near the base of each. May. l. broadly lanceolate, obtuse, ciliated. h. 1ft. 1795. (B. M. 621.)

=B. s. angustifolia= (narrow-leaved). fl. fragrant; perianth bright blue, slightly pink in the tube. May and June. l. linear, acute, light green. h. 1ft. 1757. (B. M. 637.)

=B. s. rubro-cyanea= (red-and-blue).* fl. 2in. or more in diameter; upper half of the perianth very brilliant blue, and the lower part rich crimson, forming a central zone, in striking contrast to the blue portion. May, June. l. broad, acuminated, downy on the under surface. h. 6in. to 8in. 1796. See Fig. 200. (B. M. 410.)

=B. a. sulphurea= (sulphur-coloured).* fl. cream-coloured or pale yellow; anthers blue, and stigmas yellow; segments spreading. April, May. l. narrow-obtuse. h. 9in. 1795. SYNS. Gladiolus sulphureus, G. plicatus. (B. M. 1053.)

=B. s. villosa= (villous).* fl., perianth smaller than the last, with the narrower segments rather more widely spreading than in B. s. rubro-cyanea, brilliant crimson, with violet-blue anthers. August. h. 6in. 1778. (B. M. 583.)

=BABINGTONIA= (named after C. C. Babington, Professor of Botany at Cambridge, and a distinguished botanical author). ORD. Myrtaceæ. A very pretty greenhouse evergreen shrub, allied to Bæckea, from which it differs in having the stamens collected in groups opposite the sepals. Cuttings of the young unflowering shoots may be planted in sand under a bell glass, and kept in a moderate heat until rooted, when they should be placed singly in small pots, in a compost of equal parts loam and peat, with the addition of a little sand. As the small pots fill with roots, the plants should be removed into larger ones, and the compost have less sand in it; but this should not be done until the next February. The established plants must have a good shift about March or April, and should be kept in a light, airy greenhouse; the first shoots may be topped to moderate their vigour, and to produce a greater profusion of less luxuriant ones. In May, when most plants are removed from the greenhouse, these should be set to grow under a frame which, while shielding them from heavy rains, and supporting some slight shading in the hottest parts of the sunny days, will not prevent a free circulation of air. To this end, the frame should be elevated from the rests or supports at its corners; the lights should be left off at night in fine, mild weather, and on dull, cloudy days, being only replaced during heavy rains, and when shading is necessary. Towards autumn, the plants must be returned to the greenhouse.

=B. Camphorasmæ= (camphor-smelling).* fl. pinkish-white, in little cymes, disposed in long terminal racemes. Summer. l. linear, opposite, nerved. h. 7ft. Australia, 1841. (B. R. 28, 10.)

=BACCATE.= Berried, fleshy; having a pulpy texture.

=BACCHARIS= (from Bacchus, wine; referring to the spicy odour of the roots). Ploughman's Spikenard. ORD. Compositæ. A genus of hardy, stove, or greenhouse herbs, shrubs, or trees. Flower-heads many-flowered, diœcious, terminal. Involucre sub-hemispherical or oblong, in many series, imbricated. Leaves simple, alternate, exstipulate, deciduous, oblong-lanceolate, notched, serrated, or entire. Shrubs of short duration. These plants are neither beautiful nor ornamental, but are of easy cultivation in ordinary soil. Propagated by cuttings.

=B. halimifolia= (Halimus-leaved). Groundsel Tree. fl.-heads white. July. l. oblong-cuneate, obovate, coarsely toothed; branches angular. h. 6ft. to 12ft. Northern United States, 1683. Hardy.

=BACHELORS' BUTTONS.= The double-flowered forms of Ranunculus acris, Lychnis diurna, &c.

=BACKHOUSIA= (commemorative of the late James Backhouse, a botanical traveller in Australia and South Africa). ORD. Myrtaceæ. A greenhouse evergreen shrub, requiring a compost of fibry peat, loam, and a little white sand. Propagated, in April, by half-ripened cuttings, inserted in sand, under a bell glass, in a cool house.

=B. myrtifolia= (Myrtle-leaved).* fl. white, disposed in corymbs, and often produced on cuttings soon after having struck root. May. l. ovate, acuminate, smooth. Branches slender. h. 16ft. New South Wales, 1844. (B. M. 4133.)

=BACONIA.= A synonym of =Pavetta= (which see).

=BACTRIS= (from baktron, a cane; the young stems being used for walking sticks). ORD. Palmaceæ. Very ornamental, slender growing, and prickly stove palms. Peduncle of the spadix bursting through about the middle of the leaf sheath. Drupes small, ovate, or nearly round, and generally of a dark blue colour. Leaves pinnatisect; segments generally linear and entire. Instead of being confined to the apex of the trunk, the leaves are scattered over nearly the whole surface, and the lower ones retain their verdure long after the upper ones have fully developed. Stems slender, varying from 2ft. to 10ft. in height. Some of the species are of easy culture in a compost of loam, peat, loaf mould, and sand, in equal parts; but most of them are very difficult to manage. Propagation may be effected by suckers, which are very freely produced. Many species are ornamental only when in a young state.

=B. baculifera= (cane-bearing). l. pinnate, bifid at the apex, 2ft. to 6ft. long; pinnæ arranged in clusters about 1ft. long and 2in. broad, dark green above, paler below; petioles sheathing and densely clothed with sharp brown and black spines, 1-1/2in long. South America.

=B. caryotæfolia= (Caryota-leaved).* fl., spathe ovate, prickly; branches of spadix simple, flexuous. l., pinnæ wedge-shaped, three-lobed, and erose; rachis, petioles, and caudex, prickly. h. 30ft. Brazil, 1825.

=B. flavispina= (yellow-spined). Synonymous with B. pallidispina.

=B. major= (greater). fl. greenish-yellow, with a broadly ovate spathe. h. 25ft. Carthagena, 1800.

=B. Maraja= (Maraja). Maraja Palm. fl. yellow, with a prickly spathe. h. 30ft. to 50ft. Bahia, 1868.

=B. pallidispina= (pale-spined).* l. pinnate, bifid at the apex; pinnæ clustered, 6in. to 12in. long, 1in. wide, dark; petioles sheathing at the base and furnished with a profusion of long, yellow spines, which are tipped with black. Brazil. SYN. B. flavispina.

=BACULARIA= (from baculum, a walking-stick). ORD. Palmaceæ. A small genus containing a couple of stove species, which are amongst the smallest palms of the Old World. Both are confined to the east coast of tropical Australia. B. monostachya--in allusion to its slender stem, which rarely exceeds in thickness that of the thumb--is known as the Walking-stick Palm.

=B. minor= (lesser). l. attaining 3-1/2ft. Stems, several from same rhizome, 2ft. to 5ft. high, 1/2in. thick. Queensland.

=B. monostachya= (one-spiked). l. pinnate, pendent, 6in. to 12in. long, bifid at the apex; pinnæ about 4in. across, broad, irregular in shape, with ragged and irregular ends; dark green. Stem slender, petioles sheathing. h. 10ft. New South Wales, 1824. SYN. Areca monostachya. (B. M. 6644.)

=BADGER'S BANE.= See =Aconitum meloctonum=.

=BÆA= (commemorative of Rev. Dr. Beau, of Toulon, brother-in-law to Commerson, the discoverer of the genus). SYN. Dorcoceras. ORD. Gesneraceæ. Curious and pretty greenhouse herbaceous perennials, requiring a rich sandy loam. They are easily propagated by seeds. Probably the only species in cultivation is the following:

=B. hygrometrica= (hygrometric).* fl. pale blue-coloured, yellowish at the throat; segments of the limb more or less reflexed; corolla five-lobed, somewhat resembling that of the Violet; scapes numerous, naked, few-flowered. Summer. l. in a rosette, thinly covered with coarse white hairs, ovate acute at both ends, crenate serrate. h. 6in. North China, 1868. (B. M. 6468.)

=BÆCKEA= (named after Abraham Bæck, a Swedish physician, and an esteemed friend of Linnæus). ORD. Myrtaceæ. Very pretty greenhouse evergreen shrubs. Flowers white, pedicellate, small. Leaves opposite, glabrous, dotted. They thrive in a compost of sandy peat, leaf soil, and lumpy, fibrous loam. Cuttings, taken from young wood, root readily, if pricked in a pot of sand, with a bell glass placed over them, in a cool house.

=B. diosmæfolia= (Diosma-leaved).* fl. axillary, solitary, approximate, sessile. August to October. l. oblong, rather cuneated, keeled, acute, crowded, imbricate, and are, as well as the calyces, ciliated. h. 1ft. to 2ft. New Holland, 1824.

=B. frutescens= (shrubby).* fl. solitary; pedicels axillary. November. l. linear, awnless. h. 2ft. to 3ft. China, 1806. (B. M. 2802.)

=B. parvula= (little). fl., peduncles axillary, umbelliferous. l. elliptic-oblong, obtuse, rather mucronate. h. 1ft. New Caledonia, 1877. This is very close to B. virgata. (R. G. 886, 2.)

=B. virgata= (twiggy).* fl., peduncles axillary, umbelliferous. August to October. l. linear-lanceolate. h. 2ft. to 3ft. New Caledonia, 1806. (B. M. 2127.)

=BÆRIA= (named in honour of Professor Baer, of the University of Dorpat). ORD. Compositæ. A genus consisting of about half a dozen species. Probably the only one in cultivation is that mentioned below; it is a very pretty plant, of easy culture in ordinary garden soil. Propagated by seeds, sown in spring.

=B. chrysostoma= (golden-mouthed). fl.-heads bright yellow, solitary, terminal, about 1in. across; involucre of about ten leaflets, in two series. Early summer. l. linear, opposite, entire. Stems erect, downy. h. 1ft. California, 1835. (S. B. F. G. ii. 395.)

=BAGGED.= Swelled like a sac or bag.

=BAHIA= (probably from Port of Bahia, or San Salvador, in South America). SYN. Phialis. ORD. Compositæ. An ornamental, hardy, herbaceous perennial, much branched from the base of the stem, and having a greyish appearance. It may be increased by seeds, or by divisions.

=B. lanata= (woolly). fl.-heads yellow, solitary, produced in great numbers. Summer. l. alternate, or with the lower ones sometimes opposite, deeply divided, and sometimes ligulate and entire. h. 6in. to 15in. North America. This species thrives on borders of light and well-drained sandy soil. (B. R. 1167.)

=BALANIUS.= See =Nut Weevil=.

=BALANTIUM= (of Kaulfuss). See =Dicksonia=.

=BALANTIUM= (of Desvaux). See =Parinarium=.

=BALBISIA= (commemorative of Giovanni Battista Balbis, a Professor of Botany at Turin). SYN. Ledocarpum. ORD. Geraniaceæ. A very ornamental half-hardy evergreen shrub, requiring a cool, dry atmosphere. As it is very liable to rot off, water must be applied with great care. Propagated by cuttings of half-ripened wood, inserted in sand, under a hand glass; or by seeds.

=B. verticillata= (whorled). fl. yellow, large, with a whorl of narrow bracts beneath. Autumn. l. opposite, three-parted; segments linear-oblong. Branches slender, glaucous. h. 3ft. to 6ft. Chili, 1846. (B. M. 6170.)

=BALCONY.= A projection from the external wall of a house, usually resting on brackets, and having the sides encompassed by a balustrade. It should at all times be prettily decorated with plants, which in the summer is a comparatively easy matter. During winter, evergreens of various kinds are most serviceable, the best being Arbutus, Aucubas, Boxes, Euonymuses, Hollies, Irish and Goldon Yew, Portugal Laurel, Retinosporas, Vincas, &c. These may be grown in pots, and when replaced by the summer occupants, should be plunged in some reserve quarter, where they should receive plenty of water; by this means, they will increase in size, and keep in a healthy condition. Very little water will be required during the winter. Climbing plants, such as Ivy, Passion Flower, Virginian Creeper, Climbing Roses, &c., are indispensable for covering the trellises, and draping the pillars and arches.

=BALDINGERA.= A synonym of =Premna=.

=BALL.= This term is used in reference to the roots and mass of earth as they are moulded into form and pressed into hardness by the pot. The masses of roots and earth which, in the case of fibrous-rooted subjects (such as Rhododendrons), must be taken intact when removing the plants, are also termed Balls.

=BALM= (Melissa officinalis). A perennial herb, often used in the manufacture of a drink for sick persons, and sometimes employed for culinary purposes. It may be grown in ordinary garden soil, and is propagated by divisions, in spring. A pretty variegated form is sometimes met with, having the additional advantage of being equal to the normal species for medicinal purposes.

=BALM OF GILIAD.= See =Cedronella triphylla= and =Populus balsamifera=.

=BALSAM= (Impatiens Balsamina). A well-known ornamental and tender annual, native of India. It is one of the showiest of summer and autumn flowers, and well deserves a place in every garden. Although of comparatively easy cultivation, good blooms and well-grown plants are far too rarely seen. A good Balsam bloom should be quite as double as a perfect Camellia, and to show to the greatest advantage should appear like one in the arrangement of the petals. To secure this, seeds should only be saved from the finest and most perfect flowers, although the quantity must, of necessity, be small. They should be sown, about the third week in March, in properly prepared pans of rich sandy soil, and placed in a gentle bottom heat of about 65deg. As soon as the first rough leaf appears, the plants should be potted off into 3in. pots, care being taken to let the cotyledon, or seed leaves, be close to the soil. When the roots touch the sides of the pots, the plants should be moved into larger ones, and this should be repeated until they are in 8in. or 10in. pots. Some growers place one or two seeds in small pots, so as to avoid the first shift, and a good plan it is. During the time the plants are under glass, they should be kept as near the light as possible, and be frequently turned around, so that they do not draw to one side; and careful training must be given to those that are required in fine form. Disbudding is also necessary to such as are wanted at their best, removing all bloom from the main stem and base of branches until the plants are of sufficient size, and then the buds at the tops will bloom almost simultaneously. The buds that will be formed afterwards will cause a continuance of blossom for a long time, in fact, for some months, if the plants are liberally supplied with liquid manure. If it is desired for them to flower out of doors, the plants should be transferred, about May, to a frame where the heat is not above 50deg., and be kept in a steady growing state, air being admitted on all suitable occasions, cold winds and heavy rains avoided, and water supplied when needed; never allow them to get dry. They require training and disbudding the same as those grown in the greenhouse. About June, the plants should be fully exposed during the day; and, when danger of frost is over, the lights may be kept off altogether. These should bloom at the end of July. In all cases, plenty of drainage must be allowed, as the amount of water required is very great. Insects must be sharply looked after, as well as slugs and snails. There are several sections, such as Camellia-flowered (see Fig. 201), Rose-flowered, &c., each containing variously striped, spotted, and entire coloured blooms, and it is best to pay an extra figure to secure a good strain.

=BALSAM APPLE.= See =Momordica Balsaminea=.

=BALSAMINA.= See =Impatiens=.

=BALSAMINEÆ.= A tribe of plants belonging to the order Geraniaceæ. Sepals and petals all coloured, consisting of six segments, "two outer ones small, flat, and oblique; the next large, hood-shaped, ending below in a conical spur; the fourth opposite to it, small, very broad, concave; the two innermost very oblique, and more or less divided into two unequal lobes." The best known genus is Impatiens.

=BALSAMODENDRON= (from balsamon-—an old Greek word used by Theophrastus-—balm or balsam, and dendron, a tree). ORD. Burseraceæ. Greenhouse or stove balsamiferous trees. Flowers small, green, axillary, often unisexual; calyx four-toothed, permanent; petals four, linear-oblong, induplicately valvate in æstivation; stamens eight, inserted under the annular disk, having elevated warts between them. Berry, or drupe, ovate, acute, one to two-celled, marked with four sutures. Leaves with three to five sessile, dotless leaflets. They thrive in a compost of thoroughly drained sandy loam. Propagated by cuttings of ripe young wood, taken in April, and placed under a hand glass, in bottom heat. The species named below doubtfully belongs to this genus, as the characteristics above enumerated will show.

=B. zeylanicum= (Ceylon).* fl. white, three-petaled, glomerated, involucrated; racemes interrupted, downy. l. impari-pinnate, with five to seven-stalked, ovate, acute leaflets. h. 30ft. Ceylon.

=BALSAM OF CAPEVI.= See =Copaifera=.

=BALSAM-TREE.= See =Clusia=.

=BAMBOO CANE.= See =Bambusa=.

=BAMBUSA= (from bambu, the Malay name). Bamboo Cane. ORD. Gramineæ. A genus of ornamental, shrubby, greenhouse, half-hardy or hardy shrubs, each culm flowering but once. Flowers usually hexandrous. Leaves, as a rule, relatively shorter than the stems, lanceolate, and narrowed at the base. Stems jointed, flexuose, branching, usually hollow, and, when mature, of a hard, woody nature. In well drained, sheltered situations, in the open, with rich, loamy soil, some of the species make extremely graceful objects, particularly so in the more southern counties of England, and in parts of Scotland. Unless a very severe winter is experienced, they may be left without protection. Plants of all the species, however, should have the shelter of a cold greenhouse till about the end of April; when they should be gradually hardened off, and transferred to a warm, sheltered spot, such as in woodlands, by the margins of lakes, &c., as they like plenty of moisture during the summer. A good watering must be given after planting, to settle the soil. Propagation is effected by careful division of well-developed plants, which should be done in early spring, just as new growth is commencing; and it is advisable to establish the divisions in pots. See also =Arundinaria=.

=B. arundinacea= (reed-like).* Stem very stout, rising like a beautiful column to some 50ft. or 60ft. in height; the laterals producing a profusion of light green leaves, the whole presenting the appearance of a huge plume of feathers. India, 1730. This species is best treated as a stove plant, but it may be placed out of doors in summer. See Fig. 202. (B. F. S. 321.)

=B. aurea= (golden).* l. lanceolate, acute, light green, distinguished from B. nana by having their under surface less glaucescent, and the sheath always devoid of the long silky hairs. China. This very handsome species forms elegant tufts, with its slender much-branched stems, which attain a height of from 6ft. to 10ft., and are of a light green colour in a young state, ultimately changing into a yellowish hue. Hardy in most parts of the country. See Fig. 203.

=B. Fortunei= (Fortune's).* l. linear-lanceolate, abruptly pointed, somewhat rounded at the base, on very short hairy stalks, serrated and often fringed with long hairs on the margin, downy on both sides, and distinctly variegated, the transverse veins often of a bottle-green colour. h. 1ft. to 2ft. Japan. A dwarf tufted species, with very slender stem. Quite hardy. There are only variegated varieties of this in cultivation, viz., variegata and argenteovittata. (F. d. S. 1863, t. 1535.)

=B. glauca= (milky-green). A synonym of B. nana.

=B. japonica= (Japanese). Synonymous with Arundinaria Metake.

=B. Maximowiczii= (Maximowicz's). Synonymous with Arundinaria Maximowiczii.

=B. Metake= (Metake). Synonymous with Arundinaria Metake.

=B. mitis= (small). l. deep green, lanceolate, acute, striated, clasping the stem; panicle simple, erect, close; spikes long, imbricated. Stem tapering. h. 40ft. Cochin China and Japan. This vigorous-growing species can be cultivated out of doors during summer, and, in most localities, it may be left out all the year.

=B. nana= (dwarf).* l. lanceolate, acute, glaucous, stoutish, with the footstalks slightly downy. h. 6ft. to 8ft. India, 1826. A rather tender species, requiring to be grown in the stove or greenhouse. SYNS. B. glauca and B. viridi-glaucescens. See Fig. 204.

=B. nigra= (black). See =Phyllostachys nigra=.

=B. Ragamowski= (Ragamowsk's).* l. 9in. to 18in. long, and about 1in. to 3in. broad. China and Japan. This species "can readily be recognised by the tomentose line on one side of the midrib, running nearly the whole length of the leaf on the underside, this line being always on the longer side of the leaf." Hardy. SYN. B. tessellata.

=B. Simonii= (Simon's).* l. narrow, nearly 6in. to 10in. long, occasionally striped with white. Stems growing with great rapidity, mealy-glaucous at the joints; branchlets numerous, rather closely crowded. h. 10ft. China and Japan, 1866.

=B. striata= (striated).* l. linear-oblong; culms striped yellow and green. h. 6ft. to 20ft. China, 1874. A very slender and graceful, rather tender, species. May be grown in the open air during summer, and in very favoured spots it is probably hardy, especially if covered with a mat in winter. It makes an excellent pot plant. SYN. B. viridi-striata. (B. M. 6079.)

=B. tessellata= (tessellated).* A synonym of B. Ragamowski.

=B. violescens= (nearly-violet).* l. green above, bluish-grey beneath, with an elongated ligule, surrounded by a bundle of black hairs. Stems much branched, blackish-violet. China, 1869. This handsome and vigorous species is intermediate between Phyllostachys nigra and B. nana. It requires protection during winter.

=B. viridi-glaucescens= (glaucous-green). A synonym of B. nana.

=B. viridi-striata= (green-striped). A synonym of B. striata.

=BANANA=, or =PLANTAIN=. See =Musa=.

=BANEBERRY.= See =Actæa=.

=BANISTERIA= (named after John Baptist Banister, a traveller in Virginia in the seventeenth century, author of a catalogue of Virginian plants, inserted in Ray's "Historia Plantarum"). ORD. Malpighiaceæ. Stove trees or shrubs, frequently climbing. Flowers yellow; calyx five-parted; petals furnished with long stalks; stamens ten. Leaves simple, stalked. They are for the most part very ornamental, but are not often seen in flower in this country. They will grow in a mixture of loam, leaf soil, and peat, with some sharp sand added. Cuttings, made from ripened wood, will root freely in sandy soil, under a hand glass, in stove heat, taking about three or four weeks to do so.

=B. chrysophylla= (golden-leaved).* fl. deep orange, axillary, corymbose. l. ovate, oblong, acutish, somewhat sinuated towards the top, clothed beneath with golden shining down. Brazil, 1793. Climber.

=B. ciliata= (ciliated).* fl. large, orange-coloured, umbellate. June. l. cordate, orbicular, smooth, ciliated. Brazil, 1796. Twiner.

=B. ferruginea= (rust-coloured). fl. yellow; racemes panicled. June. l. 2in. long, ovate, acuminated, smooth above, and shining, rusty beneath, and are, as well as the petioles, clothed with close pressed hairs. Brazil, 1820. Climber.

=B. fulgens= (glowing).* fl. yellow, in umbellate corymbs. l. ovate, acuminated, smooth above, and clothed with silky pubescence beneath, as well as the petioles. Branches dichotomous. West Indies, 1759. Climber.

=B. Humboldtiana= (Humboldt's).* fl. yellow; umbels lateral and terminal, sessile. l. roundish-ovate, cordate, rather acuminated, mucronate, membranaceous, smoothish above, clothed beneath with soft hoary down as well as the branchlets. South America, 1824. Climber.

=B. sericea= (silky). fl. yellow, racemose. July. l. ovate, obtuse, with a mucrone; younger ones downy on both surfaces, adult ones only on the under surface; down of a golden shining colour. Brazil, 1810. Climber.

=B. splendens= (splendid).* fl. yellow; racemes axillary, dichotomous, umbellate. Floral leaves orbicular, and nearly sessile. l. cordate, kidney-shaped, orbicular, clothed with silky down beneath. South America, 1812. Climber.

=BANKS.= These are usually formed with a view to increasing the amount of surface ground, and for the acceleration or retarding of vegetable crops, such as strawberries, &c. They should be from 6ft. to 12ft. apart, according to the depth of soil, and run from east to west. In constructing Banks of a uniform size, great care, and a constant use of the garden line, will be found necessary. For the warmest side of the Banks, Dwarf French Beans, Peas, Vegetable Marrows, Cucumbers, New Zealand Spinach, Capsicums, &c., may be grown. On the opposite side, and when a prolonged supply is desired, Cauliflower, Broccoli, Lettuce, Turnip, Spinach, &c., may be sown thinly in drills, to be thinned out, and remain. It needs but little discretion to produce valuable crops by this method.

=BANKSIA= (named in honour of Sir Joseph Banks, once President of the Royal Society, and a distinguished patron of science, particularly of Natural History). ORD. Proteaceæ. Greenhouse evergreen shrubs, natives of Australia, principally grown for the beauty of their foliage. Leaves variable in form, usually dark green, clothed with white or rufous down beneath; margins deeply serrated or spinous, rarely entire. The following is the mode of culture recommended many years ago by Sweet. The pots should be well drained, by placing a potsherd about half way over the hole at the bottom of the pot, then laying another piece against it that it may be hollow, afterwards putting some smaller pieces all around them, and on the top of these some others broken very small. All the plants belonging to the order Proteaceæ should be drained in a similar manner, as the roots are very fond of running amongst the broken potsherds, and consequently there is less danger of their being overwatered. Care must also be taken not to allow them to flag, as they seldom recover if once allowed to get very dry. The plants should be placed in an airy part of the house when indoors. Cuttings are generally supposed to be difficult to root, but this is not the case if properly managed. Let them be well ripened before they are taken off; then cut them at a joint, and place them in pots of sand, without shortening any of the leaves, except on the part that is planted in the sand, where they should be taken off quite close. The less depth they are planted in the pots the better, so long as they stand firm when the sand is well closed round them. Place them under hand glasses in the propagating house, but do not plunge them in heat. Take the glasses off frequently to give them air, and dry them, or they will probably damp off. When rooted, transfer to small pots; after which, place them in a close, unheated frame, and harden by degrees. Seeds are a very unsatisfactory means of multiplying the stock.

=B. æmula= (rivalling).* l. 6in. to 10in. long, 1in. broad, linear-oblong, tapering slightly at the base; edges deeply toothed, deep green on both sides; midrib of under surface clothed with rich brown hairs. h. 20ft. 1824. SYN. B. elatior. (B. M. 2671.)

=B. australis= (southern). A synonym of B. marginata.

=B. Caleyi= (Caley's). l. 6in. to 12in. long, linear, deeply and regularly toothed from base to apex, dark green above, paler below. h. 5ft. to 6ft. 1830. Said to be an elegant species.

=B. collina= (hill-loving).* l. 2in. to 3in. long, 1/2in. broad, linear; apex præmorse, as if bitten straight off; upper surface dark green, silvery below. h. 6ft. to 8ft. 1822. This forms a dense and handsome shrub, especially with its large head of yellow flowers. SYNS. B. Cunninghami, B. ledifolia, and B. littoralis. (B. M. 3060.)

=B. Cunninghami= (Cunningham's). A synonym of B. collina.

=B. dryandroides= (Dryandra-like).* l. 6in. to 10in. long, 1/4in. broad, pinnatifid, divided almost to the midrib; lobes triangular, deep green above, and reddish-brown below. Stem clothed with reddish-brown hairs. h. 6ft. 1824. This plant is extremely graceful and elegant as a table decoration.

=B. elatior= (taller). Synonymous with B. æmula.

=B. integrifolia= (whole-leaved). l. cuneate-oblong, 6in. long, nearly 1in. wide at the broadest part; edges entire; upper side dark green, silvery white beneath. h. 10ft. to 12ft. 1788. SYNS. B. macrophylla, B. oleifolia. (B. M. 2770.)

=B. i. compar= (well-matched). l. very densely set upon the branches, oblong, tapering at the base, blunt at the apex; edges serrulate; upper side dark olive green, silvery white beneath. h. 6ft., finely branching. 1824.

=B. latifolia= (broad-leaved). l. 6in. to 10in. long, 3in. broad, obovate-oblong; edges serrated; upper surface deep green, beneath clothed with woolly greyish hairs, those on the midrib bright brown. h. 20ft. 1802. (B. M. 2406.)

=B. ledifolia= (Ledum-leaved). Synonymous with B. collina.

=B. littoralis= (shore). Synonymous with B. collina.

=B. macrophylla= (large-leaved). Synonymous with B. integrifolia.

=B. marginata= (margined). l. 1in. to 2in. long, 1/2in. broad, blunt at the apex, armed with several short spines, and tapering at the base, deep green on the upper surface, snowy white beneath. h. 5ft. to 6ft. 1822. SYN. B. australis. (B. M. 1947.)

=B. occidentalis= (western).* fl. yellow, rather handsome, in spikes about 4in. long. April to August. l. 5in. to 6in. long, 1/4in. broad. h. 5ft. 1803. West coast of New Holland. A beautiful species. (B. M. 3535.)

=B. oleifolia= (olive-leaved). Synonymous with B. integrifolia.

=B. Solanderi= (Solander's).* l. 4in. to 6in. long, and over 2in. wide, deeply pinnatifid, with three to six pairs of lobes on each leaf; apex as if bitten off; upper side dark green, under silvery white. h. 6ft. 1830.

=B. speciosa= (showy).* l. 8in. to 14in. long, about 1/2in. wide, pinnatifid, but divided almost to the midrib; lobes semicircular, with a spine on the end of each; upper side deep green, beneath silvery white, with the midrib clothed with ferruginous woolly hairs. h. 6ft. 1805. Both this and the preceding species are very handsome, and highly deserving of the most extensive culture.

=B. quercifolia= (Oak-leaved). l. cuneate-oblong, deeply incised at the margins, and having a short spine upon each lobe. h. 5ft. 1805. (B. R. 1430.)

=BANKSIA= (of Forster). A synonym of =Pimelea=.

=BAOBAB-TREE.= See =Adansonia=.

=BAPHIA= (from baphe, a dye; the tree produces the camwood of commerce). Camwood or Barwood. ORD. Leguminosæ. A stove tree, requiring a loam and peat soil. Cuttings, not deprived of any of their leaves, will root in a pot of sand, under a hand glass, in heat.

=B. nitida= (shining). fl. white; corolla with a roundish spreading vexillum, linear wings, which are about the length of the vexillum, and an acute carina; pedicels two to three together, one-flowered, axillary. June. l. entire, oval-oblong, acuminated, shining. h. 30ft. Sierra Leone, 1793. (L. B. C. 367.)

=BAPTISIA.= (from bapto, to dye; so named from the economical use of some of the species). ORD. Leguminosæ. North American hardy herbaceous plants, with trifoliate, rarely simple leaves, and racemes of yellowish or blue flowers. They are somewhat shy bloomers, but grow freely in a loamy soil. Propagated by divisions, or, more easily, by seed, which latter may be sown in sand and leaf mould in the open, or in pots placed in a cold frame.

=B. alba= (white).* fl. white; racemes terminal. June. l. stalked, glabrous; leaflets elliptic-oblong, obtuse; stipules deciduous, subulate, shorter than the petioles. Branches divaricate. h. 2ft. 1724. (B. M. 1177.)

=B. australis= (southern).* fl. blue; racemes few-flowered, elongated, shorter than the branches. June. l. stalked, smooth; leaflets oblong-cuneated, obtuse, four times longer than the petiole; stipules lanceolate, acute, twice the length of the petiole. Stem branched, diffuse. h. 4ft. to 5ft. 1758. (Flora, 1856, 2; B. M. 509.)

=B. confusa= (confused). fl. dark blue, alternate, bracteate; racemes elongated. June. l. stalked, smooth; leaflets oblong-cuneated or obovate; stipules linear-lanceolate, twice the length of the petioles. Stem branched. h. 1ft. to 2ft. 1758.

=B. exaltata= (exalted).* fl. deep blue; racemes many-flowered, elongated, twice the length of the branches. June. l. ternate, stalked; leaflets lanceolate-obovate, five times longer than the petioles; stipules lanceolate, acuminated, three times longer than the petioles. Stem erect, branched. h. 3ft. to 4ft. 1812. (S. B. F. G. 97.)

=B. leucophæa= (dusky-white). fl. cream-coloured; racemes many-flowered, lateral, with the flowers leaning to one side. July. l. sessile, somewhat villous; leaflets rhomboid-obovate; stipules and bracts ovate, acute, broad, leafy. h. 1ft. 1870. (B. M. 5900.)

=B. minor= (less). fl. blue; racemes axillary, bracteate. June. l., leaflets rhomboid-lanceolate; stipules lanceolate, longer than the petioles. Stem erect, solid. h. 1ft. to 2ft. 1829.

=B. perfoliata= (perfoliate-leaved).* fl. yellow, small, axillary, solitary. August. l. perfoliate, roundish, quite entire, rather glaucous. h. 3ft. 1793. (B. M. 3121.)

=B. tinctoria= (dyers').* fl. yellow, with wings each furnished with a callosity, or lateral tooth; racemes terminal. l. stalked, upper ones nearly sessile; leaflets roundish-obovate; stipules setaceous, almost obsolete. h. 2ft. to 3ft. 1759. (L. B. C. 588.)

=BARBACENIA.= (named after M. Barbacena, a Governor of Minas Geraes). Formerly placed in ORD. Hæmodoraceæ, but now referred by Bentham and Hooker to Amaryllidaceæ. Very singular and pretty stove evergreen herbaceous perennials, allied to Vellozia. Flowers purple, large, showy; perianth funnel-shaped, resinosely hairy on the outside; limb spreading; scapes one-flowered, usually clothed with glandular hairs. Leaves firm, spiral, spreading, acutely keeled. Lindley says that they are capable of existing in a dry, hot air without contact with the earth, on which account they are favourites in South American gardens, where, with Orchids and Bromeliads, they are suspended in the dwelling houses, or hung to the balustrades of the balconies, in which situation they flower abundantly, filling the air with their fragrance. They are rarely seen in our gardens. They may be grown in baskets of fibrous loam and peat, with some nodules of charcoal added.

=B. purpurea= (purple).* fl. funnel-shaped, six-cleft, terminal, solitary; ovarium elongated, tuberculated. July. l. linear, keeled, with spiny serratures. h. 1-1/2ft. Brazil, 1825. See Fig. 205. (B. M. 2777.)

=B. Rogieri= (Rogers').* fl. purple; scape and ovaria tubercled; filaments broad, bifid. July. l. linear, acuminated, imbricate, with broad stem-clasping bases, finely spinely serrated on the margin, and keel recurved; caudex short. h. 1-1/2ft. Brazil, 1850. (L. J. F. 82.)

=BARBADOS CHERRY.= See =Malpighia=.

=BARBADOS GOOSEBERRY.= See =Pereskia aculeata=.

=BARBADOS LILY.= See =Hippeastrum equestre=.

=BARBAREA= (anciently called Herb of St. Barbara). Winter Cress; American Cress. ORD. Cruciferæ. Hardy glabrous perennial herbs. Flowers yellow; racemes erect, terminal. Stems erect. They are of easy culture, but scarcely worth growing in the pleasure garden. Propagated by cuttings, suckers, divisions, or seeds.

=B. præcox= (early). l., lower ones lyrate; terminal lobe ovate; upper ones pinnate-parted; lobes linear-oblong, quite entire. h. 1ft. to 1-1/2ft. Commonly known as American, or Black American Cress. Here and there on roadsides, and in dry gravelly places in Great Britain. An escape from cultivation. (Sy. En. B. 124.)

=B. vulgaris= (common). l., lower ones lyrate; terminal lobe roundish; upper ones obovate, toothed, or pinnatifid. h. 1-1/4ft. The double flowering form of this native species is the only one of this genus worth growing for beauty; it is generally known as Double Yellow Rocket. The variegated form is also rather pretty, and comes true from seed. (Sy. En. B. 120.)

=BARBATUS.= Having long weak hairs, in one or more tufts; bearded.

=BARBERRY.= See =Berberis=.

=BARBIERIA= (in honour of J. B. G. Barbier, M.D., a French physician and naturalist, author of "Principes Generaux de Pharmacologie ou de Matière Medicale," Paris, 1806). ORD. Leguminosæ. An ornamental stove evergreen, requiring a mixture of peat, loam, and sand. Propagated by cuttings of half-ripened wood, which should be placed in sand, under a glass, in stove heat.

=B. polyphylla= (many-leaved).* fl. scarlet, 2in. long; racemes axillary, few-flowered, shorter than the leaves. l. impari-pinnate, with nine to eleven pairs of elliptic-oblong, mucronate leaflets, pubescent in an adult state. Porto Rico, 1818. SYNS. Clitorea polyphylla and Galactia pinnata.

=BARBS.= Hooked hairs.

=BARK.= The outer integuments of a plant beyond the wood, and formed of tissue parallel with it.

=BARK-BOUND.= This condition is generally the result of very rich soil, or insufficient drainage. In most fruit trees a gummy exudation takes place. If caused by stagnancy, thorough drainage should immediately be effected. Scrubbing the stem is also recommended. Slitting the bark with a knife is likely to do more harm than good, particularly so in the hands of the inexperienced.

=BARKERIA= (name commemorative of the late G. Barker, of Birmingham, an ardent cultivator of orchids). ORD. Orchidaceæ. From a scientific point of view, this genus should be included in Epidendrum. Very handsome, deciduous, epiphytal, cool-house orchids, having slender pseudo-bulbs, from 6in. to 12in. high, from the top of which the numerous flower-stems are produced. In a cool, airy temperature, these plants grow vigorously, suspended in pans or small baskets close beneath the glass, and slightly shaded with tiffany. They succeed well also on flat blocks of wood, on the top of which they should be tied, without any moss, as their freely-produced, thick, fleshy roots soon cling to the blocks. During the season of growth, a good supply of water is needed, and in hot weather it may be applied three or four times daily; the blocks and plants are best immersed in water; but when at rest, a slight watering twice or three times a week will suffice. Propagated by divisions, just previous to the commencement of new growth.

=B. elegans= (elegant).* fl. in loose racemes, four or five in each; each blossom about 2in. across; sepals and petals dark rose; lip reddish crimson, spotted and edged with a lighter colour. Winter. h. 2ft. Mexico, 1836. Of this beautiful slender-growing species, there are two or three varieties in cultivation. (B. M. 4784.)

=B. Lindleyana= (Lindley's).* fl., raceme 2ft. long, very slender, bearing from five to seven blossoms near its apex; sepals and petals rosy purple; lip white, with a deep purple blotch at its apex. September, remaining in beauty for a considerable time. h. 2ft. Costa Rica, 1842. (B. M. 6098.)

=B. L. Centeræ= (Center's).* fl. rosy lilac; lip oblong; margins crenulated or crisped; apex blotched deep purple. Costa Rica, 1873.

=B. melanocaulon= (dark-stemmed).* fl. on an erect spike; sepals and petals rosy lilac; lip broader at the base than at the top, reddish-purple, having a blotch of green in the centre. August. h. 1ft. Costa Rica, 1848. Very rare.

=B. Skinneri= (Skinner's).* fl. deep rose-coloured; spikes 6in. to 9in. long, from the apices of the ripened growth, often branched, forming a dense mass of deep purple blossoms, which, if kept dry, lasts from eight to ten weeks. h. 1-1/2ft. Guatemala. (P. M. B. 15, 1.)

=B. S. superbum= (superb).* fl. dark rose; lip somewhat deeper tinted, and marked towards the base with yellow streaks. Guatemala. This far surpasses the type in size and number of flowers, as well as in brilliancy of colour. (W. S. O. 38.)

=B. spectabilis= (showy).* fl. quite 2in. across, produced eight or ten together, on a spike issuing from the top of the pseudo-bulb; sepals and petals oblong, acuminate, rosy lilac; lip white, margined with deep lilac or rosy purple, and dotted or spotted with crimson. This very distinct and desirable species lasts from eight to ten weeks in beauty, and forms a very handsome object when placed in the drawing-room and covered over with a large glass shade. Guatemala, 1843. (B. M. 4094.)

=BARKING-IRONS.= Instruments used in taking off the bark of trees.

=BARKLYA= (named after Sir H. Barkly, formerly Governor of South Australia). ORD. Leguminosæ. A large greenhouse tree, thriving in a compost of loam and leaf mould. Propagated by seeds and cuttings; the latter should be half ripened, and placed in sandy soil, under a bell glass, in a cool house.

=B. syringifolia= (Syringa-leaved). fl. golden yellow, numerous, disposed in axillary or terminal racemes. l. alternate, simple, coriaceous. h. 30ft. Moreton Bay, 1858.

=BARK STOVE.= A hothouse adapted for moisture-loving exotics, and having a pit from 2ft. to 4ft. deep, containing fermenting matter, chiefly tanners' bark, by which means a steady heat is maintained for a considerable time. The Bark Stove is now almost obsolete. Bark is, however, still largely used in pine pits, and in some propagating beds; but such beds are generally superseded by hot-water or hot-air tanks.

=BARLERIA= (named after J. Barrelier, a French botanist of the seventeenth century). ORD. Acanthaceæ. A genus of interesting and ornamental stove evergreen shrubs. Flowers axillary or terminal; calyx four-sepaled, the two outer larger than the others. They thrive best if grown in loam and peat, with a little rotten dung added. Propagated by cuttings made of the young wood, and placed in a similar compost, under a bell glass, in stove temperature, with bottom heat.

=B. flava= (yellow).* fl. yellow, aggregate, terminal, tubular; bracts very narrow, setose. Summer. l. lanceolate, hairy, entire. Plant unarmed. h. 3ft. India, 1816. SYN. B. mitis. (B. M. 4113.)

=B. Gibsoni= (Gibson's). fl. pale purple, rather large, sub-terminal. Winter. l. ovate or oblong-lanceolate. India, 1867. A glabrous stove shrub, of branched habit. (B. M. 5628.)

=B. Leichtensteiniana= (Leichtenstein's).* fl. very curious; spikes axillary, 2in. to 3in. long, ovoid or oblong, consisting of a large number of closely packed overlapping bracts, all turned to the fore or lower part of the spike; bracts ovate-acuminate, mucronate, spine-toothed, one-ribbed, with prominent and curved veins, and 1in. to 1-1/2. long. l. opposite, 1in. to 2in. long, linear-lanceolate, entire, mucronate, tapering at the base into a very short stalk. Branches slender, virgate, sub-angular. South Africa, 1870. This plant is covered over its whole surface with close, white, hoary down. (G. C. 1870, p. 73.)

=B. longifolia= (long-leaved). fl. white; spines of whorls six. Summer. l. ensiform, very long, rough. h. 2ft. India, 1781. This is a biennial.

=B. lupulina= (Hop-headed). fl. yellowish; spikes ovate; bracts ovate, concave, imbricated. August. l. lanceolate, quite entire; spines simple, spreading. h. 2ft. Mauritius, 1824.

=B. Mackenii= (MacKen's).* fl. purple, large, in a terminal raceme. Spring. l. recurved, narrow-ovate, or elliptic-lanceolate, sub-acute, petioled. Natal, 1870. (B. M. 5866.)

=B. mitis= (small). Synonymous with B. flava.

=B. prionitis= (Prionitis-like). fl. orange; spines axillary, pedate, in fours. Summer. l. quite entire, lanceolate-ovate. h. 3ft. India, 1759.

=BARLEY.= See =Hordeum vulgare=.

=BARNADESIA= (named after Michael Barnadez, a Spanish botanist). ORD. Compositæ. Pretty greenhouse deciduous shrubs, requiring a dry atmosphere. They should be grown in peat, loam, and sand, in equal proportions. Propagated either by seeds, sown in hotbeds in March, or by cuttings, made of half-ripened wood in April, and placed in sand under a bell glass.

=B. rosea= (rosy).* fl.-heads rose-coloured, solitary, ovate-cylindrical, downy, sessile; florets bilabiate, one lip oblong-emarginate, villous, the other filiform; hairs on receptacle twisted; pappus stiff, plumose. May. l. alternate, ovate, acute at both ends. h. 1-1/2ft. South America, 1840. See Fig. 206. (B. M. 4232.)

=BARNARDIA.= Included under =Scilla= (which see).

=BAROMETER.= An instrument for measuring the density of the atmosphere, and hence determining the probable changes of weather, or the height of any ascent. To the gardener the Barometer is indispensable as a warning to take due precaution.

=BAROSMA= (from barys, heavy, and osme, smell; referring to the powerful scent of the leaves). Name often incorrectly spelt Baryosma. SYN. Parapetalifera. ORD. Rutaceæ. Very pretty small, Heath-like, greenhouse evergreen shrubs, from the Cape of Good Hope. Calyx equally five-parted; petals five, oblong; stamens ten. Leaves opposite or scattered, coriaceous, flat, dotted, with their margins sometimes glandularly serrulated, sometimes almost entire or revolute. They thrive in a mixture of sand, peat, and a little turfy loam, with good drainage and firm potting. Cuttings, taken from ripened wood, inserted in a pot of sand, and placed in a shady position in a cool house, with a bell glass over them, will root readily in a few weeks.

=B. betulina= (Birch-leaved). fl. white, axillary, solitary. February to September. l. opposite, obovate, serrulate, sessile, spreading. h. 1ft. to 3ft. 1790. (B. M. Pl. 45.)

=B. dioica= (diœcious).* fl. purplish; peduncles axillary, usually in threes, shorter than the leaves. April. l. scattered; upper ones ternate, lanceolate, tapering to both ends, full of glandular dots, spreading. h. 1ft. to 2ft. 1816. (B. R. 502.)

=B. latifolia= (broad-leaved). fl. white, usually solitary, lateral. July. l. opposite, ovate-oblong, sessile, serrulated, smoothish, without glandular dots; branches villous. h. 1ft. 1789.

=B. pulchella= (pretty).* fl. pale red or purple; peduncles axillary, usually solitary, exceeding the leaves. February. l. crowded, ovate, quite smooth, with thickened, crenate-glandular margins. h. 1ft. to 3ft. 1787.

=B. serratifolia= (saw-edged-leaved).* fl. white; peduncles axillary, sub-divided. March to June. l. nearly opposite, lanceolate, stalked, glandularly serrulated, smooth. h. 1ft. to 3ft. 1789. (B. M. 456, and B. Z. 1853, 12.)

=BARRED.= Marked in spaces with a paler colour, resembling bars.

=BARREN FLOWERS.= The male or staminate flowers of many plants, such as the Cucumber, Melon, &c., are popularly known as Barren Flowers, i.e., they produce no fruit. This condition is, in some respects, similar to "blind" Strawberries or "blind" Cabbages, so far as fruition is concerned, but structurally and functionally it is widely different. The Barren Flowers of the Cucumber, Melon, &c., are produced by what are known as monœcious plants, i.e., having male and female organs in different flowers, but on the same plant. In the Strawberry, &c., Barren Flowers are generally the result of unfavourable surroundings, or unskilful cultivation. A good example of Barren Flowers is seen in the ray-florets of many Composite plants, which are frequently really neuter, having neither male nor female organs.

=BARREN SOILS.= A term signifying such soils as are normally unprofitable. The term can only be correctly applied in very few cases; as almost any soil may be rendered capable of affording a basis for some kind of vegetable life, arboreal or other. The question of planting up the enormous quantity of what is now waste land, might well engage the most practical consideration. Of course, the natural state of any land will, to a great extent, determine what would be its ultimate condition, after all that could be effected by mechanical agency has been accomplished. Drainage, irrigation, enrichment, pulverisation, are all matters which can only be considered upon a particular basis; but we doubt not that the thousands of acres of land now practically almost useless, might, by the adoption of proper means, be rendered fairly remunerative.

=BARREN-WORT.= See =Epimedium=.

=BARRINGTONIA= (named after the Hon. Daines Barrington, F.R.S.). ORD. Myrtaceæ. A genus of stove evergreen trees and shrubs, very difficult to cultivate. Flowers large, racemose. Leaves opposite or whorled, generally obovate; margins toothed or entire. Fruit one-seeded, fleshy. They require a compost of two parts loam, one peat, and one sand. Water should be given in abundance, and a moist atmosphere at all times maintained, the temperature ranging from 65deg. to 95deg. Propagated by cuttings obtained from the lateral shoots; these, taken off at a joint when the wood is ripe, planted in sand, with a hand glass over them, root readily. The cuttings should not be stripped of any of their leaves.

=B. racemosa= (raceme-flowered). fl. red; racemes pendulous, very long. l. cuneate-oblong, acuminated, serrulated. h. 30ft. Malabar, 1822. (B. M. 3831.)

=B. speciosa= (showy).* fl. purple and white, large and handsome, disposed in an erect thyrse. l. shining, cuneate-oblong, obtuse, quite entire. h. 20in. to 30in. in England. This beautiful species seldom attains a height of more than 6ft. or 8ft. (G. C. 1845, p. 56.)

=BARROW.= Garden Barrows are very numerous, both with and without wheels. The Flower-pot Barrow has a wheel and a flat surface, on which plants, pots, or leaves are placed, either directly, or, when small, in shallow baskets. The Haum Barrow is an open box or case, of wicker or other work, placed on, or suspended from, a pair of handles, with or without a wheel, and is useful for carrying litter, leaves, &c. The Water Barrow, instead of a box, contains a barrel, tub, or cistern, in which fluid manure, or ordinary water, is conveyed to different parts of the garden. The Hand-barrow is a frame of wood, carried by two levers, which form four handles; for removing large pots or tubs of trees or shrubs it is very useful.

=BARTLINGIA.= A synonym of =Plocama= (which see).

=BARTONIA= (in honour of Benjamin S. Barton, M.D., formerly Professor of Botany at Philadelphia). ORD. Loasaceæ. Hardy annuals or biennials, downy, with stiff and bearded hairs. This genus is now placed under Mentzelia in most standard botanical works. Flowers white or yellow, large, terminal, expanding in the evening, when they are very fragrant, and becoming reddish as they fade. Leaves alternate, interruptedly pinnatifid. The species are very showy, and well worth growing. Any ordinary garden soil suits them. Seeds should be raised in a gentle heat in spring; and, when the seedlings are sufficiently large, they should be potted singly into small, well-drained pots. In winter, they should be placed on a dry shelf in a greenhouse or frame. B. aurea is one of the brightest of hardy annuals, and may be sown either in a frame, or in the open border in April.

=B. albescens= (whitish).* fl., petals ten, pale yellow, disposed in a leafy panicle. July. l. sinuately toothed. Stem with a white shining epidermis. h. 1ft. to 4ft. Chili, 1831. Annual or biennial. (S. B. F. G. ii., 182.)

=B. aurea= (golden).* fl. two or three together, terminal, bright golden yellow, as large as a half-crown; petals five. June. h. 1ft. California, 1834. Annual. See Fig. 207. (B. M. 3649.)

=B. nuda= (naked) and =B. ornata= (adorned) are two very pretty white-flowered biennial species. h. 2ft. Missouri, 1811.

=BARYOSMA.= See =Barosma=.

=BASAL=, or =BASILAR=. Situated at the base of anything; as the embryo, when situated at the bottom of the seed.

=BASELLA= (its Malabar name). Malabar Nightshade. ORD. Basellaceæ. Annual or biennial stove trailers, with white or pinkish flowers, of no great horticultural value. In India, and elsewhere throughout the tropics, some of the species are cultivated as pot herbs, and are used as a substitute for Spinach.

=B. alba= (white).* fl. white. August. l. heart-shaped, pointed. h. 8in. India, 1688. This plant, either when allowed to fall in festoons from the roof of a warm house, or treated as a basket plant, forms an elegant object when in flower.

=BASELLACEÆ.= A series of usually herbaceous climbers, and considered a tribe of Chenopodiaceæ.

=BASIL, SWEET= (Ocymum basilicum). This is a tender annual from India, and must be raised in gentle heat. The foliage is somewhat largely used for flavouring purposes. Seeds should be sown in April, the seedlings pricked out into boxes to strengthen, and finally planted out about 8in. asunder, in beds of light rich soil, in June, being well watered until fully established. As soon as they bloom, they should be cut down to within a few inches of the ground, and the portions cut off should be tied up in small bunches and dried in the shade for winter use. Some of the plants can be lifted in September, potted up, and placed in a warm greenhouse for the winter, when the fresh green leaves will be found very useful. Bush Basil (Ocymum minimum) is a dwarfer plant, but may be treated in the same way. Wild Basil is botanically known as Calamintha Clinopodium.

=BASIL-THYME.= See =Calamintha Acinos=.

=BASI-NERVED.= When the nerves of a leaf spring from the base.

=BASING-UP.= The raising of a small bank of earth entirely round a plant, so as to retain water immediately about the root. The term is sometimes used to signify =Earthing= or =Moulding=, which see.

=BASKETS.= Few objects contribute more to the adornment of a window, or the decoration of the diningroom, drawing-room, or glass-house, than Hanging Baskets, tastefully filled with handsome foliaged and flowering plants. Baskets are made in different forms and of various materials, such as wire, terra-cotta, wood, and cork. The Wire Baskets have a very light and elegant appearance, and are generally used. In filling Baskets, the inside should be lined with a thick layer of moss, or Selaginella Kraussiana, next to which a layer of coarse sacking must be placed, to prevent the soil from working through. Terra-cotta Baskets are very pretty, and are extensively employed in domestic rooms, but they should always have one or more holes at the bottom, to facilitate drainage. Rustic Baskets, of cork or wood, are also very suitable for floral arrangements; those composed of teak-wood are very generally used for orchids. The compost should be prepared according to the requirements of the plant or plants intended to be grown, which can be easily ascertained on reference to such plants in this work. The soil should not be allowed to get dry; in the event of this happening, however, a thorough soaking by immersion must be given. As a rule, attention should be given in the matter of watering every other day, and light syringing every morning and evening during the spring and summer months will be most beneficial. The Baskets should be examined every week, all dead or decaying leaves being removed, and any insects, which are so likely to get a foothold, destroyed. In arranging the subjects, the centre plant should be the tallest, the next outer ones shorter, and the marginal ones of a trailing or drooping habit, so that the whole may present a symmetrical, and at the same time a natural, appearance. Wickerwork Baskets are used for carrying or transferring plants, and are generally made 18in. wide by 20in. deep; they are extremely useful, and should be in every garden. Split wood and withes are largely employed in making Baskets. The Planter's Basket, described by Loudon as a flat, rectangular utensil of wickerwork or boards, partitioned into three or more parts, for the purpose of carrying with the gardener when about to plant or remove plants, is now, unfortunately, almost obsolete. One division is for the plants, another for those taken up, and a third for the tools to be made use of, and for any decayed parts of plants, stones, weeds, or other refuse which may be collected. By using this Basket, order, accuracy, and neatness are secured. The Sussex "Truck" Baskets, made of willow-wood, are very useful, being both light and durable. See also =Measures=.

=BASSIA= (named after Ferdinando Bassi, Curator of the Botanic Garden at Bologna). ORD. Sapotaceæ. Handsome lofty-growing lactescent stove trees, with axillary, solitary, or aggregate flowers, and quite entire, smooth, coriaceous leaves. They require stove heat, and a compost of peat and loam. Cuttings, taken from ripened wood, strike readily in sand, under a hand glass, in a strong moist heat.

=B. butyracea= (buttery). The Indian Butter Tree. fl., pedicels aggregate, and are, as well as the calyces, woolly. l. obovate, 8in. to 9in. long, and 4in. to 5in. broad, tomentose beneath. h. 30ft. to 70ft. Nepaul, 1823. (B. F. F. 35.)

=B. latifolia= (broad-leaved). The Mahwah Tree of Bengal. fl., corolla thick and fleshy; pedicels drooping, terminal. l. oblong or elliptic, smooth above, whitish beneath, 4in. to 8in. long, and 2in. to 4in. broad. h. 50ft. India, 1799. (B. F. S. 41.)

=B. longifolia= (long-leaved). fl., pedicels axillary, drooping, crowded round the ends of the branchlets. l. ovate-lanceolate, approximate at the tops of the branches, 6in. long, deciduous. h. 50ft. Malabar, 1811. (B. F. S. 42.)

=BASS= or =BAST MATS=. These are prepared, chiefly in Russia, from the inner bark of various Limes (Tilia), and are very largely used in this country by nurserymen for packing purposes. They are also extensively employed as coverings, being excellent preventatives of the effects of frost. They are beneficial as a covering for beds of early vegetables, to prevent radiation during the night. For tying purposes they are now greatly superseded by Raffia Grass. Archangel Mats are larger, and of better quality than the St. Petersburgh. Dunnage Mats are heavy, and generally used for covering, as they are much cheaper.

=BASTARD ACACIA.= See =Robinia Pseudo-acacia=.

=BASTARD BALM.= See =Melittis=.

=BASTARD BOX.= See =Polygala chamæbuxus=.

=BASTARD CABBAGE-TREE.= See =Geoffroya=.

=BASTARD CHERRY.= See =Cerasus Pseudo-cerasus=.

=BASTARD CINNAMON.= See =Cinnamomum Cassia=.

=BASTARD CORK TREE.= See =Quercus pseudo-suber=.

=BASTARD INDIGO.= See =Amorpha=.

=BASTARD LUPINE.= See =Trifolium Lupinaster=.

=BASTARD QUINCE.= See =Pyrus Chamæmespilus=.

=BASTARD VERVAIN.= See =Stachytarpheta=.

=BASTARD VETCH.= See =Phaca=.

=BASTARD WIND-FLOWER.= See =Gentiana Pseudo-pneumonanthe=.

=BASTARD WOOD-SAGE.= See =Teucrium Pseudo-scorodonia=.

=BAST MATS.= See =Bass Mats=.

=BATATAS= (its aboriginal name). ORD. Convolvulaceæ. This genus is now referred to Ipomæa. Strong, free-growing, greenhouse or stove deciduous twiners. Calyx of five sepals; corolla campanulate; stamens inclosed. They are of easy culture, only requiring plenty of room to spread, and are well adapted for trellis work, or to run up pillars. They are all tuberous rooted, and therefore require to be kept dry when in a dormant state. A rich, open, loamy soil is most suitable. Young cuttings strike readily under a hand glass, in heat.

=B. bignonioides= (Bignonia-like).* fl., corolla dark purple, funnel-shaped, with a curled limb; peduncles many-flowered, nutant, shorter than the petioles. July. l. three-lobed; hind lobes rounded, imbricate. Cayenne, 1824. (B. M. 2645.)

=B. Cavanillesii= (Cavanilles').* fl. pale whitish-red; lobes of corolla obtuse, crenulated; peduncles one to three-flowered. August. l. quinate; leaflets ovate, entire, unequal. Native country unknown, 1815.

=B. edulis= (edible).* Sweet Potato. fl., corolla 1in. long, white outside and purple inside; peduncles equal in length to the petioles, or exceeding them, three to four-flowered. l. variable, usually angular, also lobed. Stem creeping, rarely climbing. East Indies, 1797. See Fig. 208.

=B. glaucifolia= (milky-green-leaved). fl., corolla small, purplish, with an inflated tube, and ovate, acute segments; peduncles two-flowered, length of leaves. May. l. sagittate, truncate behind, on long petioles. Mexico, 1732.

=B. heterophylla= (various-leaved). fl. blue; peduncles solitary, axillary, bearing each three sessile flowers. July. l. quinately palmate; lobes or leaflets ovate-spathulate, acute. Plant very villous. Cuba, 1817.

=B. paniculata= (panicled).* fl. large, purple; peduncles much exceeding the petioles, many-flowered, dichotomously and corymbosely panicled. June l. palmate, five to seven-cleft; lobes ovate-lanceolate or elliptic, bluntish, rarely sub-acuminated. India, 1799. (G. C. n. s., x., 341.)

=B. senegalensis= (Senegalese). fl. white or purplish, large; peduncles three-flowered. June. l. quinately palmate; lobes ovate, obtuse, middle one the largest. Stem white, tubercular. Guinea, 1823.

=B. venosa= (veiny). fl. purple; peduncles umbellate, with an ovate-cordate, solitary leaf at the base of each pedicel. July. l. digitately quinate; leaflets petiolate, acuminated, quite entire. France, 1820.

=BATEMANNIA= (named after Mr. J. Bateman, a collector and cultivator of orchids, and author of a "Monograph of Odontoglossum," and other works on orchidaceous plants). ORD. Orchidaceæ. A small and easily-grown genus of dwarf, compact-growing epiphytes, closely allied to Maxillaria, but differing from that genus in having the anther-bed with a membranous border. They may be grown in pots, in a compost of peat and moss, or on blocks of wood with moss. They require an intermediate house and plenty of water in the growing season. Propagated by divisions and offsets. They have generally a free-flowering habit; but some of the species are not so ornamental as many other orchids.

=B. armillata= (braceleted). fl. green, white. 1875. (R. X. O. 316.)

=B. Burtii= (Burt's). fl. red-brown, yellow base, 3in. across; lip white, tipped chocolate. Autumn. l. elliptic-oblong, or ligulate, sub-distichous. Plant bulbless. Costa Rica, 1872. (B. M. 6003.)

=B. Colleyi= (Colley's). fl. on a pendulous raceme, rising from the base of the pseudo-bulbs; sepals and petals brownish-purple within, green without; lip white. Autumn. h. 6in. Demerara, 1834. (B. R. 1714.)

=B. grandiflora= (large-flowered).* fl., flower-spike coming up with the young growth, bearing three or four flowers, of curious structure; sepals and petals olive-green, striped with reddish-brown; lip white, with reddish-purple streaks, orange or yellow towards the base. Pseudo-bulbs ovate, 3in. or 4in. long, and bearing two large, broad, leathery leaves. New Grenada, 1866. (B. M. 5567.)

=B. Wallisii= (Wallis').* fl., sepals light greenish-yellow outside, olive-green to chestnut-brown inside, with some yellow at the base; petals with scarlet stripes at the very base, but otherwise coloured like the sepals; lip blade greenish, with a brownish hue at the anterior part; peduncles slender, corymbose. h. 1ft. Columbia, 1876.

=BATSCHIA.= See =Lithospermum=.

=BAUERA= (named after Francis and Ferdinand Bauer, German botanical draughtsmen). ORD. Saxifragaceæ. Small shrubs, natives of Australia, New Zealand, &c. Flowers axillary, solitary, pedunculate. Leaves six in a whorl, approximating by threes, and therefore, as it were, opposite and ternate, exstipulate. Easily cultivated in a compost of sandy loam and peat. Propagated by cuttings, placed in sandy soil, under a glass. These very pretty little greenhouse evergreens flower nearly the whole year through.

=B. humilis= (low). fl., corolla red, one-half smaller than B. rubioides, and the plant is altogether much smaller. July to December. l. oblong, crenated. h. 1ft. New South Wales, 1804. (L. B. C. 1197.)

=B. rubiæfolia= (madder-leaved). Synonymous with B. rubioides.

=B. rubioides= (madder-like).* fl. pale red, or pink. l. lanceolate, crenated. h. 1ft. to 2ft. New South Wales, 1793. SYN. B. rubiæfolia. (A. B. R. 198.)

=BAUHINIA= (in honour of John and Caspar Bauhin, two famous botanists of the sixteenth century). Mountain Ebony. ORD. Leguminosæ. Very showy stove evergreen shrubs. Flowers racemose; petals five, spreading, oblong, rather unequal, upper one usually distant from the rest. Leaves two-lobed, constantly composed of two jointed leaflets at the top of the petiole, sometimes nearly free, but usually joined together, more or less, and with an awn in the recess. They succeed well in a mixture of sand, loam, and peat, requiring good drainage and moderately firm potting. Propagated by cuttings, which should be taken when the wood is neither very ripe nor very young; the leaves must be dressed off, and the cuttings planted in sand, under a glass, in moist heat. Although glorious objects in the tropics, few of the species flower under our comparatively sunless skies; those which hitherto have succeeded well in Britain are marked with an asterisk.

=B. acuminata= (taper-pointed-leaved). fl. pure white; petals broadly ovate, hardly stipitate. June. l. rather cordate at the base, smoothish; leaflets connected beyond the middle, ovate, acuminated, parallel, four-nerved. h. 5ft. to 6ft. Malabar, 1808.

=B. aurita= (eared). fl. white; petals ovate, on short stipes. August. l. glabrous, cordate at the base; leaflets connected the fourth part of their length, oblong-lanceolate, nearly parallel, six to eight-nerved. h. 4ft. to 6ft. Jamaica, 1756.

=B. corymbosa= (corymbose).* fl. in loose racemes; petals pinkish, regular, crenulated at the edge. Summer. l., leaflets semi-oval, obtuse, parallel, connected nearly to the middle, three-nerved, cordate at the base, the nerves on the under surface, as well as the petioles, branches, and calyces, clothed with rufous villi. Shrubby climber. India, 1818. (G. C. 1881, xvi., p. 204.)

=B. inermis= (unarmed). fl. white; petals linear; racemes terminal, leafless, simple. l. ovate at the base, ferruginous beneath; leaflets oblong, acute, four-nerved, parallel, connected a little beyond the middle. h. 6ft. to 8ft. Mexico, 1810.

=B. multinerva= (many-nerved). fl. snow-white; petals linear. Legume 8in. to 12in. long. l. elliptic, rounded at the base, membranous, shining above, rather pilose beneath; nerves ferruginous; leaflets semi-ovate, obtuse, approximate, five-nerved; free. h. 20ft. Caracas, 1817.

=B. natalensis= (Natal).* fl. white, 1-1/2in. across, opposite the leaves. September. l. small, alternate, of two obliquely-oblong rounded leaflets. Natal, 1870. (B. M. 6086.)

=B. petiolata= (long-petioled). fl. white, 3in. long, in terminal clusters. Autumn. l. stalked, ovate-acuminate, five-nerved, glabrous. Columbia, 1852. SYN. Casparia speciosa. (B. M. 6277.)

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