Chapter 12. Alphabetical List Of Plants For The Rock, Wall, Paved, Water And Bog Garden

Showing the Detailed and Individual Culture, also the Best Species and Varieties

NOTE. The words in parentheses following the species and varieties indicate first the colour of the flowers, then the time of blooming, and lastly the average height in inches or feet to which the plants may be expected to grow. A x in front of the specific name indicates that the plant is a hybrid.

Abelia. These are hardy and half-hardy evergreen and deciduous shrubs, which, in mild, sunny, sheltered positions, may be grown out of doors. A. chinensis (Rock Abelia), with white flowers grouped in a star-like calyx hung from a long, delicate stem in August and September and growing to a height of 30 inches, is a pretty shrub for the rock garden. Culture. Take cuttings in October and strike in a frame or layer in August. Plant out in March or October in well-drained peaty loam and leaf-mould. Trim to keep in shape only, cut off dead blooms and thin old wood after flowering.

Abies (Fir). Handsome evergreen coniferous trees, which thrive in open positions in good loam. Of numerous species and varieties, A. balsamea, var. Hudsonia (Dwarf Balsam Fir), A. nobilis (American Silver Fir) and A. pectinata (Silver Fir) are beautiful and useful species for planting, in the rock garden. Culture. Plant in March or October. No pruning is required. To propagate, sow seed in the open in March or April. Take cuttings in late summer of the varieties.

Acaena (New Zealand Burr). A genus of trailing plants, the dwarf-growing kinds of which are delightful for carpeting in the rock garden and in the wall garden. They do well in sun or shade in ordinary light sandy soil, and must be kept in check, or they are prone to spread and smother other subjects. The flowers are small and of little value, and it is for the reddish-brown spines that form on the dead flower-heads that the plants are chiefly prized. The bronze fern-like foliage is also very pleasing in the autumn when there is little else in bloom. A. Sanguisorbce, with its pretty grey-green foliage in summer, is a useful little trailer for the wall garden. Culture. Sow under glass in March, take cuttings in August, or propagate by means of division in April. Plant out in spring or early autumn. These plants do not require protection in winter. Species. A. adscendens (Purple, June-Aug., 6 in.); A. Buchananii (Yellowish-red, Summer, 2-3 in.); A. glauca (Grey Blue, July-Aug., 2-3 in.); A. microphylla (Bright Red, June-Aug., 3 in.); A. Novce-Zelandice (Purple, July-Aug., 2-3 in.).

Acantholimon (Prickly Thrift). Useful little rock plants with grass-like evergreen foliage and of tufted habit. The supporting stems bear the most beautiful limonium-like flowers. These plants like a warm, dry, sunny position, and gritty, well-drained loam. They are valuable alike in the rock or wall garden, and are best propagated by means of cuttings with a "heel" in July, or by layering, and, in the case of A. glumaceum, by division of roots. Species. A. Echinus (White); A. glumaceum (Pale Pink); A. venustum (Pink). All flower from June-July, and grow from 5 to 9 inches in height. The last-named species likes a position on the moraine, and protection from excessive moisture in winter by means of a sheet of glass.

Acer (Maple). Hardy deciduous trees for sunny, sheltered, but open, positions facing south or west with well-drained ordinary soil. They are very decorative plants in early spring when their leaves appear in exquisite tints. A. palmatum, var. septemlobum and A. rubrum may be grown with advantage in the bog or marsh garden, where their beautiful foliage of the deepest red may be shown to perfection. Culture. Plant in October or March. No pruning is required. Propagate by means of budding or cuttings in the open in August. A. palmatum s. atropurpureum, A. palmatum dissect urn, A. p. d. ornatum, A. p. d. aureum, all known as Japanese Maples, are handsome shrubs for the rock garden.

Achillea (Milfoil or Yarrow). This genus includes a number of silvery-leaved, dwarf-growing hardy perennials, which are invaluable for crevices and ledges in the rock garden. They need a sunny situation and a light, dry, rather poor soil. A. tomentosa is a delightful subject for the paved and wall gardens, carrying beautiful heads of flowers of the deepest yellow on stems some 6 inches high springing from carpets of bright grey foliage. Culture. Sow seed under glass in March, or propagate by division or cuttings in spring or autumn. Plant out in position for flowering in October or April. Cover with glass in winter. Species. A. ageratifolia [also known as Anthemis Aizoori] (White, June-Sept., 6 in.); A. argentea [syn. Clavence] (White, May-June, 3-4 in.); A. xKelleren (White, June-Aug., 12 in.); A. xLewisii (Yellow, July-Aug., 6 in.); A. moschata (Pale Yellow, June-July, 3-6 in.); A. tomentosa (Yellow, June-Aug., 6-9 in.); A. umbellata (White, July, 3-5 in.).

Aconite. See Eranthis.

Acorus (Sweet Flag, Sweet Sedge, and Myrtle Grass). A genus of hardy perennials of Iris-like nature, and having leathery leaves from 6 to 30 inches high. The flowers are borne in July and August. They are splendid subjects for the marsh or water garden. Culture. Propagate by means of division in March, and plant out in sunny, marshy situations or in shallow water. Species. A. Calamus (Yellow, 30 in.); A. gramineus, var.japonicus (Leaves striped with Red and White, 30 in.).

Actinella. See Rydbergia.

Adiantum (Maidenhair Fern). A. pedatum is a hardy species that will thrive in a shady, sheltered position in the rock garden in a compost of peaty loam, leaf-mould, and sand (no lime). Culture. Propagate by means of spores sown under glass in July, or by division in April. Do not pull the roots apart, but cut them with a sharp knife. Plant out in April. See also Ferns.

Adonis (Pheasant's Eye). A genus of most delightful rock plants, annuals and perennials, thriving in partial shade in a mixture of loam, peat, and leaf-mould. The flowers are in shape like those of the buttercup and the laciniated foliage is very striking. A. amurensis does not like excessive damp in winter, and needs protecting by means of a sheet of glass. It is also suitable for cultivation in the Alpine House. Culture. The annuals may be raised from seed in the usual manner. Perennials Sow seed under glass in March, or propagate by means of division in September. Plant out in spring or early autumn. Species. {Annuals) A. cestivalis (Crimson, May-June, 12 in.); {Perennials) A. amurensis (Bright Yellow, Feb.-April, 12 in.); A. vernalis (Yellow, March-April, 10 in.).

Ethionema (Burnt Candytuft). A genus of dwarf-growing shrubby perennials that are excellent subjects for growing on the moraine or on ledges in the rock garden. They thrive in the sun in gritty or sandy loam, forming in spring small bushes of waxy little leaves and carrying heads of pink and white flowers. A. grandiflorum is also useful in the wall garden. Culture. Sow under glass in March or take cuttings in July. Trim in all straggly shoots after flowering. Species. A. armenum (Pink, June-July, 4-6 in.); A. armenumx Warley Rose and A. armenum x Warley Ruber are garden hybrids, very useful in the rock and wall gardens (former Deep Pink, latter Deep Crimson-rose, May-Aug., 6-9 in.); A. coridifolium (Rose, June-July, 6 in.); A. grandiflorum (Rose, May-July, 12 in.); A. iberideum (White, May-July, 12 in.); A. oppositifolium (Pink, May, 2-4 in.); A. Thomasianum (Rosy-lilac, May-June, 3-5 in.).

Ageratum (Floss Flower). A delightful little half-hardy annual sitting close to the ground and covered all through the summer with dense masses of blue and white flossy flowers. All varieties make excellent subjects for the rock garden. Culture. Sow seed thinly in light soil late in April or in May, in a warm, sunny situation, or under glass in deep boxes of half loam and half leaf-mould and sand in February. Prick off as soon as possible. Harden off in May, and plant out about 12 inches apart the first week in June, the smaller varieties being planted closer together. Cuttings may also be struck in a frame in August. Species. A. Houstonianum [syn. A. mexicanum] (Blue and White, May-Sept., 6-8 in.). Named Varieties. Heavenly Blue (Slate Blue); Imperial Dwarf (Deep Blue); Lavender Band (Lavender); Little Dorrit (Pale Blue); Snow flake (White).

Ajuga (Bugle). Although Ajuga reptans (the Common Bugle) is hardly worthy of notice, this genus includes several pretty little rock plants with attractive foliage. The best of these is probably A. metallica crispa, which has crinkled, dark green leaves with a metallic lustre, and blue flowers. These little plants thrive in almost any situation and in ordinary, gritty soil, and are usually propagated by means of division in March or April. Other attractive varieties are A. reptans atropurpurea with purple leaves, and A. r. variegata with green and white leaves.

Alchemilla (Lady's Mantle). Alchemilla alpina is a low-growing little rock plant of tufted habit with silvery green, strawberry-like foliage and carries tiny greenish flowers in summer. It is useful for carpeting in the paved or rock garden, and likes a sunny, open position and a well-drained, gritty, ordinary soil with a little lime in it. Propagate by means of division in spring or autumn. A. pentaphylla, with tiny white flowers, is also deserving of a place in the rock garden.

Alisma Plantago aquatica (Water Plantain). Hardy perennials of tufted habit, which are useful for bog or water margin in ordinary soil. They grow about 30 inches high, and the rosy-white flowers are borne from June to August. Culture. Sow in March in peat, or propagate by means of division in April, and plant in sunny positions with from 1 to 12 inches of slow-moving water above the crowns.

Allium. Attractive hardy bulbous plants of the onion family, with long, greyish, daffodil-like leaves from the base of which appear slender stalks bearing heads of blue, yellow, rose, and white flowers from May to July. They make interesting subjects for the rock garden, and like a sunny position and a well-drained light loam to which a little sand and leaf-mould have been added. Culture. Plant in September or October, 3 inches deep and 4 inches apart. Lift from the ground when overcrowded and replant immediately. Propagation is by means of seed in a frame in gentle heat in March, or by offsets in October. Species. A. azureum (Sky-blue, 24 in.); A. cyaneum (Blue, 4-6 in.); A. Moly [the Lily Leek] (Yellow, 12 in.); A. narcissiflorum (Lilac-rose, 12-15 in.); A. neapolitanum (White, 12-18 in.); A. Ostrowskianum (Pink, 9-10 in.); A. roseum (Lilac-rose, 12-15 in.).

Alnus (Alder). A deciduous tree, which grows well in sunny, open positions and in a moist, swampy soil. A. glutinosa imperialis (Cut-leaved Alder), A. g. incisa (Cut-leaved Alder), and A. g. laciniata (Drooping Alder) are fascinating species for growing in the large bog or water garden. Culture. Plant in October. No pruning is necessary. May be propagated by means of grafting.

Aloysia nodiflora. See Lippia.

Alsine aretioides. A small Alpine closely related to the Arenarias, making a green carpet over the pans in the Alpine House, and throwing up large white flowers on 2 to 3 inch stems. Culture. They love a position in the moraine also, where they very often require covering with glass in the winter. Propagation is by means of seed or division in the autumn.

Alyssum (Rock Madwort). These are some of the most valuable dwarf annuals and perennials for sunny places in the rock garden. They love a sandy soil; and will not thrive in damp, heavy ground. The annual species, which are quite hardy, bloom nearly the whole summer through, and are excellent for edging or carpeting. The perennials are amongst the earliest and most attractive and showy of spring flowers and constitute some of the best rock or wall garden subjects.

A. montanum is extremely useful in the paved garden or moraine, its woody stems seeming to cling to the stones among which they are growing. From a dense little tuft of grey foliage it sends up loose heads of yellow flowers in early summer. A. Lagascce [syn. Ptilotrichum purpureuni], 2 to 3 inches high, with its lilac-pink flowers in May and June, is useful for the miniature rock garden. Culture. {Hardy Annuals) Sow seed thinly -inch deep in the open from March to May; and when fit to handle thin out to 6 inches apart. {Perennials) Sow seed under glass in March, take cuttings 4 to 5 inches long in April or September and strike in sandy soil under glass, or divide the roots in spring or autumn. Plant out in flowering positions in spring or autumn. They require no protection in winter.

Species and Varieties. {Annuals) A. maritimum [Sweet Alyssum] (White, May-July, 4-6 in.). {Perennials) A. montanum (Yellow, May-June, 3 in.); A. saxatile compactum (Yellow, May, 6-10 in.); A. s. var. citrinum (Sulphur-yellow, April-May, 5-7 in.); A. s.fl. pi. (Summer flowering double, 5-7 in.); A. serpyl-lifolium (Golden Yellow, Summer, 2-3 in.); A. spinosum (White, May, 6 in.); A. s. rubrum (Pink, May-June, 4-6 in.) [syn, Ptilotrichum spinosum].

Amelanchier (June Berry or Service Berry). Hardy deciduous trees and shrubs that thrive in sunny, sheltered positions with moderately light and moist soil. They make suitable subjects for the large bog or marsh garden. Culture. Plant in October or November. Do not prune, but cut out dead wood, and thin when necessary after flowering. Propagate by means of seed in March, by grafting on the thorn in March, by cuttings struck in the open in October, or by layering. Species. A. canadensis; A. alnifolia. Both bear white flowers from April to May, and grow from 6 to 20 feet in height.

Anagallis (Pimpernel). Delightful little half-hardy annuals with soft green foliage that send out from the axil of each leaf on long hair-like stems the most dainty star-like flowers of red, pink, or blue. They should be grown in warm, sunny positions. A. tenella (Bog Pimpernel), said to be perennial, thrives on a moist bank and is a beautiful carpeting plant. Culture. Sow seed thinly in the open in April, or in March under glass {Temp. 50^o F.). Prick out 4 inches apart into boxes, harden off, and plant out 12 inches apart during May. Species. A. Brewerii (Red, Summer, 5 in.); A. grandiflora (Various, Summer, 6 in.); A. tenella (Pink, July, 3-4 in.); A. Willmoreana (Blue, Summer, 2-3 in.).

Anchusa (Alkanet). A. myosotidiflora, with pale blue flowers from May to July, and which grows to a height of 12 inches, is a delightful perennial for the rock garden, forming dense clumps of dark green borage-like leaves from the midst of which emerge slender greyish stems branching here and there and carrying dainty little porcelain-blue forget-me-not flowers. It likes a sunny position, but does not require very rich soil. Culture. Sow seed in the open in April, propagate by means of division in spring or autumn, or take root cuttings in July. Plant out in October or November, and protect the roots in winter. In cold, heavy soil it is better to plant out in the following March.

Andromeda (Marsh or Wild Rosemary). Hardy, evergreen, rhododendron-like shrubs, which grow best in the sun and in moist, peaty soil. Their roots should never be quite dry, but they will grow in well-drained, fibrous loam and peat, if ample moisture is provided and no lime is present. The flowers, borne in sprays at the end of the branches are exactly like those of the Lily of the Valley. Culture. Plant in October. Propagate by means of ripe seed sown in pans or boxes under glass in October, or layer in September. Species. A. floribunda [syn. Pieris floribunda] (White, Spring, 30-60 in.); A. polifolia (Rose-white, May and June, 20 in.); A. compacta (Pink, May, 4-6 in.); A. [syn. Cassiope] tetragona (White, Spring, 12 in.).

Androsaces

Androsace (Rock Jasmine). These most beautiful, low-growing, and typically alpine plants are divided into two main groups: those of rather rampant growth that require a sunny site, ample drainage, and a gritty, sandy loam; and the high alpine or rock-loving class, which needs a dry, hot, rocky crevice with a deep root-run, or a sunny position in shingle. In many cases they are rather like very woolly, thin-leaved houseleeks. They must have ample moisture in the growing season, but it must not come in contact with the minute, furry cushions of foliage.

To the second section belong such plants as: A. alpina [syn. A. glacialis], A. ciliata, A. cylindrica, A. helvetica, and A. pyrenaica. These are extremely difficult to grow in this country, and are of very little value for the garden, but are of interest in the Alpine House. Most androsaces have silky or woolly leaves and these need a covering of glass in winter to keep out excessive moisture. The masses of starry, primula-like flowers are pink or white and are borne in early summer (except A. lanuginosa, July to September), on short erect stems some 3 to 6 inches high.

Culture. Sow seed under glass in March, take cuttings in September and strike in sandy soil under glass, or propagate by means of division in April. Plant out in the open in spring or early autumn. Androsaces may also be increased by layering in July.

Anemone (Windflower and Pasque Flower). Anemones of both kinds, hardy fibrous-rooted herbaceous perennials and the tuberous-rooted, thrive best in an open position in semi-shade and in a moist, light, rich medium loam, but generally succeed in any which is well drained, well dug and manured.

The dwarf-growing kinds are most excellent for carpeting under and amongst small shrubs, and for filling odd corners in the rock garden, while such species as A. blanda (Greek Anemone), A. Hepatica, and A. hortensia may also be grown with advantage in pans in the Alpine House.

The star-like, bell-shaped flowers, appearing through a clump of woolly Globe-flower-like leaves, are delicate and extremely lovely. A few anemones, at least, should be in every rock garden. The list shows some of the more suitable and lovely kinds. Culture. (Tuberous) Plant from October to the end of March. Set the tubers about 3 inches deep and 5 inches apart. The roots are best left undisturbed, but may be taken up as soon as the leaves have died down for removal or for drying-off and replanting in the autumn. A change of position is recommended at intervals of two or three years. These anemones may be propagated by means of division of dry rhizomes from September to March. (Fibrous-rooted Herbaceous Perennials) Sow in April in the reserve garden, thinly in drills a foot apart and 3/4-inch deep. Shade from the sun until the seed is up. Thin-out the seedlings to 3 inches apart, and leave them in the reserve garden until the leaves have died down after flowering the following spring, then lift, and replant in their flowering positions about 8 inches apart early in September.

Autumn-flowering, in types that should only flower in spring, may generally be prevented by excluding light and air by means of heavy top-dressings of well-rotted manure during the summer months.

Anemones For The Rock Garden

These are all tuberous, except those indicated with an *, which are fibrous. A. alpina and A. Pulsatilla like lime in their soil; A. nemorosa and A. sulphurea dislike lime; and A. pratensis and A. Pulsatilla like a rather dry site.

Antennaria. Useful little dwarf-growing rock plants of creeping habit that form silvery tufts of foliage and bear in summer masses of tiny pink or white flowers. They spread rapidly in the sun in sandy, gritty loam, and are extremely useful for carpeting, etc., in the paved and rock gardens. These little flowers are best propagated by means of division of roots in spring or autumn, and require no protection in winter. Species. A. dioica (Rose); A. d., var. rosea (Rose), and A. d., var. tomentosa (White).

Anthemis (Chamomile). Hardy perennials with scented, finely-cut, silvery foliage, the dwarf-growing species of which should be grown in sandy loam on sunny ledges in the rock garden. Culture. Sow seed in heat in March or in the open in April, or propagate by means of division in April or October. Species. A. Aizoon [also known as Achillea ageratifolia] (White, June-Sept., 6 in.); A. montana (White, June-Aug., 12 in.).

Anemone Pulsatilla

Anthericum (St. Bernard's Lily). These are very useful plants of the Lily family, growing well in any warm, dry comer. Culture. Sow seeds in spring, and prick off into pans. Plant out in autumn. Species. A. Liliago (White, June-July, 30 in.); A. ramosum (White, June, 12-15 in.).

Anthyllis {see Erinacea) (Kidney Vetch and Ladies' Fingers). Pretty little shrubby rock plants with silvery, pea-like flowers on 10-inch stems in June and July. They are of tufted habit, and have pointed, downy foliage. A sunny position and a warm, gritty loam suits them best. Culture. Sow seed under glass in March, take cuttings in March and strike in light, sandy soil, or propagate by division in March or September. Plant out in flowering position in spring or early autumn. Species. A. Hermannice (Yellow); A. montana rubra (Deep Rose); A. Vulneraria (Yellow).

Antirrhinum (Snapdragon). Only one or two species of this popular plant are suitable for the rock or wall garden. These are of dwarf or trailing habit, with broad, hairy, and light-grey leaves, and love sunny positions and a dry, well-drained, sandy, and gritty loam. They must be protected from excessive wet by means of glass in winter, and are usually raised from seed sown under glass in March. Species. A. Asarina (White and Yellow, May-Aug., 4 in.); A. glutinosum (Whitish-pink, May-Aug., 5 in.); A. sempervirens (Cream, tinged Purple, June-Aug., 4-6 in.).

Aponogeton distachyus (Cape Water Hawthorn or Pond Weed). A useful hardy aquatic plant, which spreads over the surface of the water, and carries masses of small white flowers from May to October. It does equally well in sun or shade in water with an ordinary soil bottom, and is excellent for ponds, fountains, or basins, but must be kept in check or it will soon smother other aquatics growing with it. Culture. Propagate by means of offsets or division in March. Plant in a weighted basket in slow-moving water with from 6 to 30 inches of water above the crowns. If the water is deeper than the stalks, make a mound of soil in the water and plant so that the leaves will reach the top. There is also a variety A. d. roseum with pink and white flowers.

Aquilegia (Columbine). These are hardy herbaceous perennials and biennials, that do best in rather shady, sheltered positions and in moist, cool, well-drained, deep, rich loam and leaf-mould to which a little lime may be added. Their dainty, fairy-like flowers are borne on wiry, slender stems, and the whole plant is altogether graceful. The dwarf kinds should certainly be tried in the rock or wall garden, or Alpine House. Culture. The columbines cross-fertilize with one another so profusely that they are very difficult to raise true from seed. If seed is used, it should be sown under glass in March or August, or the plants may be propagated by means of division in April or September. Plant out in spring or early autumn in rich, gritty loam in a semi-shaded position. They require no protection in winter. Species. A. alpina (Violet-blue, May and June, 10 in.); A. ccerulea (Pale Blue, May-July, 10 in.); A. canadensis nana (Orange, May-July, 15 in.); A. glandulosa (Lilac-blue and White, May-July, 12-18 in.); A. pyrenaica (Blue and White, May-July, 8 in.); A. saximontana (Pale blue, June, 4 in.); A. scopulorum (Blue, June-Aug., 4 in.).

Arabis (Rock Cress). These are the most frequently seen of all the hardy perennial rock plants. They like a sunny position and ordinary well-drained soil or sandy loam. The coarser varieties of arabis increase rapidly and thus should not be planted in close proximity to more choice plants, as they will be likely soon to smother them, and for the same reason should be trimmed back after flowering. Some varieties have rather attractive variegated leaves (A. albida variegata and A. lucida variegata), and are chiefly used in the front of mixed borders, in the rock garden, and for carpeting. A. albida fi. pl.y A. a., var. Rosabella, and A. androsacea are showy and useful in the wall garden; A. alpina may also be grown with advantage in the Alpine House, also A. Sturii, see Culture. Sow seed under glass in March, take cuttings 3 inches long in August and strike in sandy soil under glass, or propagate by means of division in September. Plant out in flowering position in spring or early autumn. They should be cut well back after flowering.

Arctostaphylos Uva-ursi (Bearberry). This is a pretty little trailing evergreen shrub, with small, roundish, leathery leaves, and in April and May carries flowers shading from white to rose. It is indigenous to certain moorland and mountainous districts, and if similar conditions are provided, can be grown quite easily from seed. It dislikes lime in the soil. A. alpina (The Black Bearberry), with white to red flowers in September, is a delightful little shrub, which rarely grows more than 10 inches high.

Arenaria (Sandwort). Dwarf hardy perennial creeping plants forming carpets and tufts of compact bright green foliage that in summer is smothered with masses of small white, pink, or reddish flowers. They are useful for carpeting, for the paved garden, and are ideal for the rock garden. These plants like the sun and a moist, sandy, gritty loam. A. balearica is also useful for the wall or paved garden, clinging very closely to the ground and smothering the soil with the most minute green leaves from which arise slender stalks bearing little white star-like flowers. Culture. Sow seed under glass as soon as ripe or in March, take cuttings in April and strike in sandy soil under glass, or propagate by division in March or September. Plant out in a rather cool spot in the open in sun or shade in spring or early autumn. No protection need be given in winter. They are apt to spread and encroach on other plants, but do little harm and are easily kept in check.

Species and Varieties. A. balearica (White, May and June, 3 in.); A. ccespitosa (White, June-July, 3 in.); A. montana grandiflora (White, May-July, 3 in.); A. Ledebouriana (White, May-June, 3 in. cushions); A. purpurascens (Reddish-purple, June and July, 3in.).

Armeria (Thrift, Sea Pink, Cushion Pink, etc.). Dwarf and tufted hardy perennials with grass-like evergreen foliage, now mainly seen in the paved and rock garden. The colour of the flowers ranges from a deep pink to white. These little plants like a sunny, open position and a dry, deep, gritty, and strong loam. Culture. Sow seed as soon as ripe under glass or in the open in April, or propagate by means of division in March, and plant out in permanent position. The stronger growing species should be divided at least every third year. Species. A. ccespitosa (Lilac-pink, June, 4 in.); A. juncea (Lilac, June-July, 4 in.); A. maritima and varieties (Rose, Red, Lilac, White, June-July, 6 12 in.); A. plantaginea (Rose, May-July, 18 in.).

Arnebia [syn. Macrotomia] (Prophet Flower). Hardy annuals and dwarf-growing perennials, which do best in the sun and in well-drained, sandy loam. A. echioides, SL perennial, is an attractive little rock plant with clusters of yellow flowers, each spotted with five black dots. A. cornuta and A. Griffiithii, annuals, are other useful dwarf species. Culture. {Annuals) Sow seed in March under glass or in the open in April; {Perennials) Sow seed under glass as soon as ripe or in March, or propagate by means of division in September. These plants, except A. echioides, require no protection in winter. Species. A. cornuta (Yellow, Black Dot, June-Aug., 15 in.); A. Griffithii (Deep Yellow, June-Aug., 10 in.); A. echioides (Pale Yellow, Black Dot, May-Aug., 9 in.).

Artemisia (Old Man, Lad's Love, Southernwood, etc.). This genus comprises hardy herbaceous perennials, also evergreen and deciduous shrubs with fragrant and silvery foliage. They thrive in ordinary soil and in an open position. Several of the dwarf-growing kinds make excellent plants for the rock garden. Culture. Propagate by means of division in October, or increase by cuttings in September. Species. A. Abrotanum (Yellowish White, July-Aug., 3-5 ft.); A. argentea (Yellow or White, June-Sept., 20 in.); A. lanata (Yellow [Silver Foliage], July-Aug., 4-6 in.).

Arundinaria [syn. Bambusd]. A genus of bamboo, the species of which require a moist climate, a deep, rich loam holding ample leaf-mould, and plenty of protection from north and east winds. Arundinarias are valuable for planting near streams and ponds and in the bog garden. All species, save A. japonica, quickly suffer from drought, and it is essential that they shall receive attention in dry weather, if planted where the soil is apt to dry quickly. Of the hardy kinds A. japonica [syn. Bambusa Metake], growing 10 to 15 feet high, is the most generally grown. Culture. Propagate by means of division in May, and plant out in semi-shade. Cut out all dead wood in April. Other hardy species are: A. Falconed (20 ft.); A. nitida (10 ft.); A. Simoni (15 ft.); A. Veitchii (30 in.). Variegated species: A. auricoma (4 ft.), and the dwarf-growing A. Fortunei (20 in.).

Arundo (Great Reed). A perennial which thrives in semi-shade on slightly swampy banks in light, rich loam, and grows to a height of 10 feet. It is very attractive, but is only suitable to large marsh or water gardens. Culture. Propagate by means of division in May. Species. A. Donax (Glaucous Foliage, 10 ft.); A. Donax variegata (Leaves Striped with White, 10 ft.).

Asarum europaeum. A curious and useful little rock plant growing about 12 inches high and during the spring bearing purplish bell-shaped flowers amidst a mass of dark, heart-shaped, leathery leaves, which almost smother them. Culture. Propagate by means of division from September to March, and plant out in permanent position in a shady spot under shrubs and in moist and rich soil. No protection is necessary in winter. A. virginianum is another hardy kind.

Asperula (Woodruff). Beautiful little dwarf-growing perennials with dense moss-like foliage. They make most attractive subjects for the moraine or for rough slopes in the rock garden, and like a sunny site, and sandy loam with ample grit in it and a deep root-run. Protection by means of glass should be afforded during the winter. A. Gussonii is also useful for the wall garden, or may be grown in the Alpine House. A. suberosa dislikes lime in its soil. Culture. Sow seeds under glass as soon as ripe or in April, or propagate by means of division in April. Plant out in permanent position in spring or early autumn. Dress occasionally with granite chips and leaf-mould. Species. A. Gussonii (Rose, May-Aug., 4 in.); A. hirta (Pink [Star-like Flowers], March-Sept., 3 in.) A. odorata (White or Pink, June-Aug., 6-8 in.); A. orientalis [syn. azurea setosd] (Light Blue, June-Sept., 4 in.); A. suberosa (Pink [Silver Foliage], June and July, 3 in.).

Aspidium. See Polystichum, Dryopteris, etc.

Asplenium (Spleenwort). A large genus of hardy and greenhouse evergreen ferns. The hardy species, which are excellent for the rock garden, thrive in the shade and in a mixture of peaty loam, leaf-mould, and old mortar rubble. Culture. Plant in April. Propagate by means of division in April, or sow spores under glass in July. Species. A. adiantum-nigrum (Black Maidenhair Spleen-wort), 6 to 12 inches; and A. ruta-muraria (Wall Rue), 2 inches. See also Ferns.

Aster (Starwort). The dwarf kinds, such as Aster alpinus (6 inches high, with large white, blue, purple, or pink flowers in July), are very lovely and make excellent subjects for the rock garden. They need the sun and a dry site. Culture. Sow seed under glass as soon as ripe or in March, or propagate by means of division of roots in March or October. Do not allow too many shoots to spring from any one crown, or the flowers will deteriorate. Lift and divide the roots triennially. Slugs, unfortunately, are very partial to these asters, and if the plants are to survive, ceaseless war will have to be waged on them. Species. A. alpinus, var. albus (White, June, 6 in.); A. alpinus, var. roseus (Pink, June-July, 6 in.); A. alpinus, var. speciosus (Blue, June-July, 6 in.); A. Farreri (Violet-red, May-June, 9 in.); A. Forrestii (Violet-orange, May-June, 9 in.); A. Pappei (China Blue, Jan.-Dec., 12 in.); A. hybrids various colours autumn.

Astilbe (Goat's Beard). The astilbe is closely allied to the spiraea, having the same loose foliage. It needs a cool, deep, and moist loam, either in sun or shade, and is thus a suitable subject for the marsh or bog garden. When grown in the sun, ample water must be afforded in dry weather and a mulch of leaf-mould should be given every November. These plants grow from 3 inches to 6 feet in height and flower from May to September. See also Spiraea. Culture. Propagate by means of division in autumn or spring, and plant out in permanent position, which should be enriched with ample well-decayed cow-manure or hop-manure. Do not lift or divide the roots for three or four years after planting. Species. A. congest a (Cream, Aug., 12 in.); A. crispa (Pink and White, July, 6 in.); A. glaberrima, var. saxatilis (Pink, June-July, 3 in.); A. simplicifolia (Pale Pink, June-July, 6 in.); A. sinensispumila (Rosy-mauve, July-Aug., 9 in.); A. Davidii hybrids (Red, Pink, White, etc., July-Sept., 4-6 ft.).

Astragalus (Milk Vetch). Hardy dwarf-growing plants of the broom genus, some of which make excellent subjects for the rock garden. They thrive in the sun and in deep loam, sand and mortar rubble. Culture. Sow under glass in the spring and summer, or propagate by division in autumn. Species. A. alpinus (Purple, June-Aug., Trailing); A. monspessulanus (Purple, June-Aug., 6 in.).

Astrantia (Masterwort). Hardy pereninals, which like a shady position and a soil composed of cool, moist loam and leaf-mould. The dwarf-growing kinds are very lovely and exceptionally pleasing for the rock garden. The glossy, deep green foliage is laciniated and the flowers, which are usually whitish or rose, are carried in umbels on slender stems. Propagate by means of root division in spring or autumn. Species. A. Biebersteinii (Rose, May-July, 30 in.); A. major (White, tinged Pink, May-July, 18 in.); A. minor (Pale Rose or White, May-July, 6 in.).

Athyrium (Lady Fern). Hardy deciduous ferns growing from 2 to 4 feet in height and doing best in shady positions and in a mixture of peat, sandy loam, and leaf-mould. They are excellent subjects for the rock garden. Culture. Plant in April. Propagate by means of spores sown under glass in July. See also Ferns.

Atriplex hortensis rubra. This is a hardy annual with ornamental red foliage. It grows to a height of about 4 feet, and makes a most attractive plant for the marsh or bog garden. Culture. Propagate by means of seed sown in the open in April or August, and thin out to 18 inches apart.

Aubrieta (Rock Cress). Pretty perennial evergreen trailing plants, which in spring provide masses of colour in the paved and rock gardens. They thrive amazingly on the moraine and even on the wall in the sun and in dry, rich, sandy loam and leaf-mould. They are happiest when allowed to ramble over the rocks or down the face of a wall. Culture. Sow seed under glass as soon as ripe or in April, prick out to 3 inches apart, and plant out in flowering position in October. Propagate also by means of division in October or March, or cuttings may be taken in July and struck in sandy soil in a frame. Plant out in permanent position when well rooted. After flowering all straggling shoots should be trimmed well back; if this is not done, the old crowns are liable to die back. Varieties. Bridesmaid (Blush-pink); Dr. Mules (Violet-blue); Fire King (Crimson); Lavender; Lilac Queen (Rose Lilac); Magician (Purple); Red Carnival (Deep Red); Warbarrow (Rose). All these and many more varieties flower from April to June, and grow from 4 to 6 inches in height.

Auriculas (Alpine) [syn. Primula Auricula]. Alpine auriculas are most delightful plants for the rock garden, forming tight little clumps of thick, leathery leaves, which in spring are covered with a white bloom or farine. The flowering period is from March to May, when the plants throw up spikes of primrose-like flowers in all imaginable colours. Culture. Sow in a light, sandy soil in a little heat immediately the seeds are ripe or in March. Prick-off into boxes as soon as four leaves have formed. Harden-off in a shady cold frame at the end of May. Plant out 6 inches apart in September or October in a partially-shaded position facing north, and in well-drained, rather heavy loam and cow-manure. Lift, divide, and re-plant triennially after flowering. Very many varieties are obtainable today.

Azalea. Azaleas are distinguished as Ghents (deciduous), Mollis or Japanese (deciduous), and Indian (evergreen). The first two are the most suitable for open-air culture, and some species are very attractive if planted in the bog, marsh, or rock garden; the Indian azaleas are greenhouse plants. A compost of sandy peat and loam, or two-thirds fibrous loam and one-third leaf-mould, is suitable for all species, but they will grow quite well in almost any soil which does not contain lime or chalk. Culture. For outdoor culture, see Rhododendrons. Species. {Hardy) A. mollis (Red, Yellow, etc.); A. nudiflora (Pink or White); A. pontica (Yellow). All these flower from May to June and grow to a height of from 3 to 6 feet. Named varieties are innumerable, and growers' catalogues should be consulted.

Bambusa (Bamboo). There are three great classes of bamboos, namely, Arundinaria, Bambusa, and Phyllostachys. Most species do well in the open in the bog or marsh garden, especially if the soil is of a moist, deep, and light loamy nature, and has some peat or leaf-mould in it, but in exposed situations they require some protection. Culture. Propagate by means of division in May, and plant out in a sheltered position on a slightly swampy bank and in partial shade. Cut out dead canes in April, and mulch annually with a good dressing of leaf-mould or well-rotted manure. Species. (Hardy) B. Fortunei aurea (2-3 ft.); B.japonica [syn. Metake] (5-10 ft.); B. palmata (2-5 ft.); B. pygmcea (H ft.); and B. tessellata (3 ft.).

Bartonia, now included in Mentzelia, which see.

Bellis (Daisy). There are many species of this dwarf-growing hardy perennial, all of which may be grown in the rock garden. Among the most beautiful are the Large Double, the Large Quilled, and the Hen and Chickens. All thrive in the sun and in moderately rich soil, and produce masses of flowers in the spring and early summer. They grow from 6 to 12 inches high. Culture. Sow seed in the open in June, or propagate by means of division after flowering. Plant out in permanent position in October. All daisies flower better if the roots are periodically divided. Species. B. perennis. Named Varieties. Dresden China (Pink, Double); Rob Roy (Crimson, Double); The Bride (White); Victoria (Pink and White).

Bellium minutum [syn. B. rotundifolium]. Attractive little dwarf-growing daisy-like perennials with flowers that are whitish inside and darkish purple on the outside from May to September. They are very suitable for the paved or rock garden. These little plants will grow almost anywhere, but thrive in the sun in a mixture of sandy loam and leaf-mould, growing to about 3 inches high. Culture. Sow seed under glass as soon as ripe or in March, or propagate by means of division in April.

Berberis (Barberry). Beautiful hardy flowering shrubs, evergreen and deciduous, among which are some of the most useful and attractive shrubs in cultivation. The stems are very thorny, and many species bear lovely orange or yellow flowers in spring or early summer, and in autumn carry handsome black, purple, or red fruit. Others have gorgeously tinted foliage in autumn. Culture. Plant from March to April or from October to November in ordinary soil or, better still, sandy loam. When overcrowded thin out old and useless wood after flowering, and shorten long shoots to keep the bushes in shape. Trimming should be delayed until the spring in the case of shrubs grown for autumn foliage. Most species are propagated by means of seeds in the open in October, by half-matured cuttings in a frame in July or August, or by layering in August. B. stenophylla, which is a useful species to grow in the marsh or bog garden, must be propagated by cuttings or suckers. B. Wilsonce, with its golden-yellow flowers in May, is a small-leaved and dwarf-growing plant, which makes a most useful shrub for the rock garden. The coral-red berries appear in the late autumn and last a long way through the winter. Species. (Evergreen) B. Aquifolium (Yellow, Feb. and March, 5 ft.); B. Darwinii nana (Orange, April-May); B. stenophylla (syn. empetrifolia) (Yellow, April-June, 8-10 ft.); B. s., var. coccinea Dwarf, Orange-red); (Deciduous) B. concinna (Yellow, Spring, 3 ft.); B. Thunbergii nana (Yellow, April-May, 3 ft.); B. vulgaris, the Common Barberry (Yellow, May, 4-15 ft.); B. Wilsonce (Yellow, May, 2-4 ft.).

Betula (Birch Tree). Plant in October or November in a sunny, open, but moist position. B. populifolia [syn. alba] (Silver Birch) and B. pendula (Weeping Birch) are graceful trees for the bog or water garden. B. humilis, B. nana, and B. pumila, are more or less dwarf-growing, and make attractive shrubs for the rock garden. All species will thrive in a poor, gravelly soil. No pruning is necessary. Propagate by means of seed or by grafting.

Blechnum (Hard Fern). Hardy and greenhouse evergreen ferns growing from 10 to 30 inches high. The hardy species, which are excellent subjects for the rock garden, thrive in shady positions and in a mixture of sandy loam and leaf-mould with no lime in it. Culture. Plant in April. Propagate by means of spores sown under glass in July. See also Ferns.

Bloomeria. Half-hardy, bulbous-rooted plants, that may be grown in the open in a warm sheltered rock garden. In the more exposed places, however, they should be grown indoors. They do well in a sandy soil, growing from 10 to 15 inches high, and flowering in May and June. Culture. Plant in September or October 2 to 3 inches deep and 3 inches apart. Propagate by means of offsets in September. B. aurea (Golden-yellow) and B. Clevelandii (Yellow) are among the best species.

Borrago (Borage). B. laxiflora is a short-lived hardy perennial. It is of trailing habit and is sometimes grown in the rock garden. In summer it carries quaint rosettes of foliage and bell-shaped, violet-blue flowers. Seed should be sown in the open in March, fresh plants being raised each year.

Brachycome iberidifolia (Swan River Daisy). Summer-flowering, dwarf-growing half-hardy annual, covered during the greater portion of the summer with a profusion of pretty cineraria-like flowers. It grows about 9 inches high, and makes a very effective subject in the rock garden. Culture. Sow seed thinly in light, rich soil in April in the open, or in March or April in gentle heat. Thin out, or plant out 9 inches apart in a sunny position about the end of May. This plant does best when sown where it is to flower. Varieties. White Star, Blue Star, Red Star.

Brodixa (Californian or Missouri Hyacinth). Beautiful hardy and half-hardy bulbous plants with hyacinth-like foliage, amidst which the cup-shaped flowers of various colours are borne on stems but very little taller than the leaves. It is the dwarf-growing species that interest us here, and these may be grown in well-drained, deep, sandy soil mixed with leaf-mould, in sunny sites in the rock garden. Culture. Plant in October, 3 inches deep and 5 inches apart. Protect with ashes during winter, and lift the bulbs from the soil every fourth year only.

Propagate by means of offsets in October. Species. B. grandiflora (Violet-blue, June and July, 15 in.); B. ixioides (Yellow, Summer, 6 in.); B. uniflora (White or Blue, April-May, 6 in.), often seen in catalogues under the name of Triteleia uniflora.

Bruckenthalia spiculifolia. These little dwarf-growing evergreen shrubs, which are closely allied to the heath family, rarely exceed 7 or 8 inches in height, and make excellent subjects for the rock garden. They prefer a light, peaty soil, and the pretty pale-rose, bell-shaped flowers are borne in June and July.

Brunella. See Prunella.

Bryanthus. See Phyllodoce.

Bulbocodium (Spring Meadow Saffron). A pretty little hardy bulb with crocus-like blooms, that appear before the leaves. It makes a worthy addition to the rock garden, and likes a well-drained, sandy soil and a sunny position. Culture. Plant in August, 3 inches deep and 4 inches apart. Lift from the soil every fourth year, and propagate by means of offsets in August. B. vernum (Purple-red, Jan.-March, 5 in.) is the best species.

Butomus umbellatus (Flowering Rush or Lily Grass). A hardy aquatic perennial of tufted habit, which likes a warm, sunny position in a bog or on a muddy bank, or in sheltered still water, with from an inch to a foot of water above the crowns. It grows to some 2\ feet in height and carries pink flowers from June to August. Propagate by means of division in March.

Cacti. Cacti cannot be said to form a genus, but rather a class including a number of genera which possess similar characteristics. They are curious and interesting perennials, many of the species producing magnificent flowers of the most striking and brilliant colours. Half-hardy cacti make most fascinating subjects for the rock or wall garden. They should be planted in spring in a well-drained, sunny, sheltered site and in light loam with a mixture of brick rubble, sand, and gravel. Cereus, Echinocactus, and Mammillaria, and those whose hairy or downy stems are likely to hold moisture, should be covered with glass in winter. Propagate by means of cuttings (partially dried) in summer, by grafting in March, or by offsets. Species. {Hardy) Cereus Engelmanni (Purple, June, 18 in.); Mammillaria setispina (Pink, Summer, 9 in.); Opuntia pulchella (Purple, Summer, 10 in.).

Calamintha alpina [syn. Satureid] (Calamint). A most useful and hardy aromatic plant for the rock and paved gardens. It forms a thick carpet of foliage, and all through the summer carries sprays of violet flowers. This plant should be grown in a sunny site and in gritty loam. Propagate by means of seeds under glass in March, or by division in March or September. C. grandiflora is a taller species (12 in.) with purple-red flowers in July and August.

Calandrinia (Rock Purslane or Portulaca). Beautiful dwarf-growing annual and perennial plants, that thrive in the sun and in sandy loam. C. umbellata (perennial), a trailing species with crimson flowers carried on slender stems, is invaluable for the rock garden, and for dry, hot banks. Culture. Sow seed under glass in March. Thin out as early as possible, harden off, and plant out in May. Propagate perennials by means of division or cuttings in spring or autumn, and plant out in permanent position. No protection is necessary in winter. Species.

(Annual) C. Menziesii (Purple, 9 in.). (Perennials) C. discolor (Lilac, 12-18 in.); C. grandiflora (Rose, 18 in.); C. umbellata (Crimson, 9 in.). All flower from July to September.

Calceolaria (Slipper Flower). There are two distinct kinds of calceolaria, the Herbaceous, raised and reared under glass for flowering in May and June, and the Shrubby, chiefly grown for bedding out. Some of the dwarf-growing species of the latter, such as C. acutifolia [syn. C. polyrrhiza] (6 in.), with soft yellow flowers spotted brown, borne in July, make excellent subjects for a damp position in the rock garden. C. biflora [syn. C. plantaginea] (4-8 in.), with canary yellow flowers from June to September, is another useful species. C. violacea (12 in.), with light bluish-violet flowers in summer, is a very choice but somewhat delicate species. These calceolarias love partial shade and a moist, fibrous loam mixed with leaf-mould or peat and sand. Culture. Take cuttings of vigorous young basal shoots in September and strike under glass, or in a warm north border, and cover with a hand-glass. If the weather turns frosty, throw some covering over the hand-glass. A fortnight later they may either be potted up or kept as cool as possible, 3 to 4 inches apart in the pit, and should be finally transferred to the rock garden towards the end of May or early in June. Division of the roots may be preferred, and this should be done in spring or autumn. Seed may also be sown under glass in March (Temp. 50^o-60^o F.). Transplant the seedlings into boxes as soon as they can be handled, and next pot up singly into 3- to 4-inch pots. Transfer to a cold frame in May, and before the plants become pot-bound, harden-off gradually, and plant out early in June. Species (for the Alpine House). C. biflora (Yellow, June-July, 6 in.); C. Darwinii (Orange, Maroon, June, 3 in.); C. Fothergillii (Yellow and Red spots, July, 4 in.); C. tenella (Yellow, Marked Crimson, June-July, 2 in., creeper).

Calla palustris (Bog Arum). Hardy aquatic plants, which spread over the surface of shallow, still water. They like a sunny position and a firm soil at the margin of ponds. The white flowers are borne from June to August. Culture. Plant in March with not more than 12 inches of water above the crowns. Propagate by means of division of roots in March.

Callirhoe (Poppy Mallow). C. involucrata, a trailing perennial species with beautiful purple-red flowers in July and August, is worthy of a place in any rock garden. It likes a sunny site and well-drained ordinary soil, and is best propagated after flowering by means of cuttings in September. Seed may also be sown in spring or autumn.

Calluna vulgar is (Ling-Heather). A hardy evergreen shrub thriving in full sun and in peaty, non-calcareous soil. Culture. Plant in October; trimming off dead flowerheads in April. To propagate, take cuttings in summer and strike in peaty soil in a frame, or layer in summer. See also Erica. Varieties. Alportii (Crimson-pink, July-Sept., 15 in.); aurea (Golden Foliage, July-Sept., 12 in.); Foxii (Pink, July-Sept., 5 in.); Serlei (White, July-Sept., 18 in.).

Calochortus (Butterfly Tulip, Star Tulip, or Mariposa Lily). Half-hardy bulbous plants, that should be planted in full sun and in sandy, well-drained leaf-mould. Culture. Plant in late October, 3 inches deep and 3 inches apart, in a sunny corner of the rock garden. Cover with straw or fibre in winter, and lift the bulbs when the leaves die down. Propagate by offsets in November. Species. C. Howellii (White, July-Aug., 18 in.); C. pulchellus (Yellow-orange, July-Aug., 12 in.); C. venustus and vars. (Yellow and Red, July and Aug., 15 in.).

Caltha (Marsh Marigold). A useful hardy perennial for the water-side or for a moist position in the bog or marsh garden. Culture. Propagate by means of division of roots in March or July, and plant out on a moist bank or at the water's edge in rich soil and in full sun or partial shade. Species. C. palustris fl. pi. (Rich Yellow [Double], May-July, 12 in.); C. leptosepala (White, May-July, 8-12 in.); C. polypetala, The Giant Kingcup, (Golden, May-July, 20 in.).

Camassia (Quamash). Hardy bulbous plants, which grow well in moist, but sunny positions and in a mixture of loam, leaf-mould, and well-rotted manure. Culture. Plant in October, 4 to 5 inches deep and 10 inches apart; lift from the soil every fourth year. Propagate by offsets in October, or by seed under glass in March. Species. C. esculenta vars. (Purple-blue, Blue, and Silvery White, May and June, 20-30 in.); C. Cusickii (Pale Lavender-blue, May and June, 20 in.).

Campanula (Bellflower). A comprehensive and deservedly popular genus, including annuals, biennials, and perennials, and providing a great variety of plants for the Alpine House, border, and rock garden. The species themselves are numerous, but as they intermarry freely, the hybrids are bewildering in their names and almost overpowering in number. The alpine species are most delightful little plants, and quite indispensable in the rock garden. The flowers are mostly blue, purple, or white in colour, and vary considerably in form. Some are tall and erect; others are prostrate. In shape the flowers are mostly bell-shaped and drooping, but in many cases they are star-like or cup-shaped and are carried erect with their centres facing upwards. Generally the flowers are borne on single stems, but some species carry several flowers on a stalk. These alpine campanulas rarely exceed 6 inches in height, and nearly all of them love an open position in sun or partial shade, doing best in rocky crevices, on walls, on the chip-strewn scree of a moraine, or in the chinks between the stones in the paved garden. They should be given a compost of well-drained, light, sandy loam with ample grit and leaf-mould. Most of these plants are lime-haters. Generally speaking, they are very easy of cultivation, but a few need special conditions. In the list we give a selection of species that are representative, well worth having, and at the same time easy to grow. There are many other species, as, for example, C. Allionii, C. excisa, and C. Zoysii, that are difficult, and best suited for the Alpine House. C. pulla does not like lime in its soil and is essentially a plant for the moraine, but it will grow in gritty leaf-mould in a chink or crevice. C. garganica hirsuta must be protected by means of glass in winter. C. pulla, as well as such species as C. alpina and C. pusilla, are also excellent subjects for cultivation in the Alpine House. There are, in addition, the taller campanulas, as C. grandiflora, C. latifolia, and C. persicifolia, which are really herbaceous border plants, but which may be grown in out-of-the-way corners and on the outskirts. Culture. Most species are easily raised from seed, but many, unfortunately, do not as a rule come true to type, and are, therefore, better propagated by means of division of roots. Sow seed in gentle heat as soon as ripe, or in March, or propagate by means of division in spring or autumn.

Campanulas For The Rock Garden

*Indicates species which like a mixture of gritty, peaty loam, and leaf-mould. It Indicates species requiring a sunny position.

Cardamine (Lady's Smock, Bitter Cress, or Cuckoo Flower). Hardy perennials growing from 4 inches to 2 feet in height and flowering from May to July. They do best in sun or shade and in marshy land in the bog garden. C. pratensis fl. pl.y which grows about 12 inches high and carries pretty lilac-coloured flowers, is a species most suitable for cultivation as is also C. trifolia a small 4-inch clover-foliaged species flowering from May to June in a semi-shaded moist position. There are some annual species also, but these are of no practical interest in the rock garden. Culture. Propagate by means of division in March, and plant out in permanent position.

Carlina acaulis. Pretty little dwarf-growing rosette-shaped plants for the rock garden. The flowers, which appear in summer, are like miniature thistles, nestling closely to the rosette. The plants will thrive almost anywhere, and are easily raised by means of seed sown in spring or autumn. Species. C. acanthifolia (Silver thistle, July, 2-3 in.); C. Cynara (Yellow thistle, July, 9 in.).

Cassinia. Beautiful evergreen shrubs, very branching by nature, which like a sunny position and an ordinary well-drained soil. They grow from 3 to 6 feet high, and flower from July to September. C. fulvida, which grows about 4 feet high and carries pretty creamy-white flowers, is a good species that may be grown with advantage in the rock garden. Culture. Plant from October to November; thin out the branches when overcrowded. To propagate, strike cuttings in a frame in August.

Cassiope tetragona. Beautiful dwarf evergreen shrubs with white flowers hanging like small bells from erect, heath-like stems in April and May. They rarely exceed 6 inches in height, and make excellent additions to the rock garden. Culture. Propagate by means of layering in July or by cuttings in August placed under a bell-jar in a compost of sand and peat. Plant out in April. A cool, moist, semi-shaded site is desirable, also sandy loam and leaf-mould. C.fastigiata and C. Mertensiana are useful subjects for the miniature rock garden also C. hypnoides and C. selaginoides. They are lime-haters.

Ceanothus prostratus. The prostrate blue-flowered member from a large race of shrubs is most suitable. Propagate by means of cuttings and plant out in October or March in a position where its roots may have plenty of room to run deeply into the rock garden.

Cedar (Cedrus). Hardy evergreen trees, dwarf-growing varieties of which, such as C. atlantica aurea, C. a. fastigiata, C. a. glauca, C. a. pendula, C. deodara, var. pendula and C. libani brevifolia, are useful in the rock garden. Plant in September or October in a sunny position and in a well-drained, gravelly, chalky, or sandy soil. To propagate, graft varieties on young plants of species sown in March or April.

Celmisia. A genus of tufted, dwarf-growing plants with long hairy leaves and pretty white daisy-like flowers in summer. The hardy species make delightful subjects for the rock garden. They like a dry, warm position in full sun or semi-shade and a gritty, sandy soil. Culture. Sow seed under glass as soon as ripe or in March. Protect with glass in winter. Species. C. coriacea, C. holosericea, easiest grown; C. grandiflora, C. LindsayU and C. spectabilis. These all grow from 12 to 18 inches high. Two smaller species more suitable for the Alpine House are C. alpina (White, about 6 in.), and C. sessiliflora (with stalkless White flowers forming small cushions upon the chippings in the pan or moraine).

Centaurium scilloides. See Erythraea diffusa.

Centranthus. See Kentranthus.

Cerastium (Mouse-ear, Chick-weed, Jerusalem Star, Snow in Summer). A genus of dwarf-growing and spreading hardy perennials of tufted growth that are extremely useful for carpeting or for crevices in the rock, wall, or paved gardens. Culture. Sow seed under glass as soon as ripe or in April, take cuttings 3 inches long in June and strike in sandy soil under glass, or propagate by means of division in March. Plant out in spring or early autumn in a sunny position and in poor, sandy or gritty loam. After flowering, all straggling growths should be cut back, or less vigorous neighbours will soon be suffocated. No protection is necessary in winter with the exception of C. alpinum lanatum which may be grown in a sunny position where it can be covered with glass in the winter. Species. C. alpinum lanatum, C. Biebersteinii, and C. tomentosum (all White [Silver Foliage], Summer flowering, 6 in.).

Ceratostigma (Leadwort). Low-growing rock plants with thin, wiry stems carrying rather glutinous bright green leaves and breaking out into heads of brilliant cobalt blue flowers in autumn. They grow best in the sun in gritty loam, and are very suitable for rock ledges, crevices, and walls. Culture. Sow seed under glass, or propagate by means of division in March or September and plant out in permanent position. No protection is necessary in winter. C. plum-baginoides (Cobalt Blue, July-Sept., 9 in.), sometimes named Plumbago Larpentce, is the best known.

Cham Keypads. Syn. Cupressus.

Chxnomeles better known under Cydonia.

Charieis (Cape Aster). A pretty little free-flowering hardy annual, which when well grown is very effective in the rock garden. It grows some 6 inches high and flowers from June to September, thriving in any good garden soil. Culture. Sow seed thinly i-inch deep from March to May, and thin out to 6 inches apart when fit to handle. C. heterophylla (Blue, or White, 6 in.) is the most commonly grown species.

Cheiranthus. See Wallflower.

Chionanthus retusus (Fringe Tree). A hardy deciduous shrub, which is well worthy of a place in the bog or marsh garden. It likes a partially shaded and sheltered position and a well-drained, moist loam, and in June and July bears white flowers. Culture. Plant from October to November, or in February and March, and trim to shape only after flowering, as the flowers are borne on the wood made in the previous year. Plants grown as bushes merely require slight trimming to keep them in shape. Propagate by means of layering in September, or strike cuttings of matured shoots with a "heel" in the open during that month.

Chionodoxa (Glory of the Snow). This bulbous plant requires similar treatment to that accorded to bulbs generally, and likes a shady position and sandy loam, but is very easy to grow and thrives almost anywhere. It makes an extremely valuable subject for the rock garden. In March and April it bears some 5 or 6 star-shaped blooms on stems from 6 to 9 inches high. The most popular species is C. Lucilice grandiflora. Culture. Plant in October 2\ inches deep and from 3 to 4 inches apart. Propagate by offsets in October, or raise from seed. The best blooms must never be expected if the bulbs are constantly disturbed. See also Bulbs. Species. C. Lucilice gigantea (Soft Mauve or Blue, and White, March, 9 in.); C. L. grandiflora (Lavender-blue [White Centre], March-April, 9 in.); C. L. sardensis (Deep Blue, March-April, 7 in.).

Chrysanthemum (Perennial Ox-Eye Daisy). Most of these are more suited to the mixed border than to the rock garden, but C. alpinum, which only grows about 5 inches high and in June and July carries white flowers; C. arcticum, 8 inches high with white flowers tinged with lilac in August and September; C. Catananchey which grows about 6 inches high and carries white flowers with a crimson base in June; and C. hispanicum, var. sulphureum which is self-descriptive, producing flowers 6 inches in height in June, are all nice plants for the rock garden. Culture. Sow seed in the open in April, or propagate by means of cuttings or division of roots in March. They like a fairly sunny position and a somewhat moist, gritty soil.

Cbrysogonum virginianum (Golden Knee). A showy herbaceous perennial, somewhat like a sunflower. The star-shaped, golden-yellow flowers are borne all through the summer. It grows to a height of about 10 inches, and will be quite happy in a shady spot in the rock garden. This plant likes a rich, loamy soil and needs ample water in dry weather. Culture. Seed may be sown in the usual way in April, but it is better to propagate by means of division of roots in March or September.

Cistus (Rock Rose). These plants are beautiful free-flowering evergreen shrubs, mostly hardy in warm, sheltered sites, and in the milder southern localities. They grow from 2 to 5 feet in height, and bear very pretty flowers. These are usually white, rose, or purple and are spotted with a different colour, generally purple or yellow, at the base of each petal. Each flower, unfortunately, lasts only one day, but a succession of blooms keeps the bushes gay from June to August. They are commonly known as Rock Roses from the fact that the flowers resemble a large single rose. These plants make admirable subjects for the rock garden, and love the sun, doing well in dry, well-drained, sandy loam or in ordinary soil to which ample lime-rubble has been added. Culture. Do not prune, merely keep the shrubs in shape by "stopping" in March and by removing dead blooms. Propagate by means of layering in August, sow seed in April, or take cuttings of half-matured wood in August and strike in a shaded frame. Grow in pots till ready for planting out. Species and Hybrids. C. x corbariensis (White, June-Aug., 36 in.); C. crispus (Rose-purple flowers, June-July, 24 in.); C. xflorentinus (White, Summer, 20-24 in.); C. x Loretii (large White flowers, June-Aug., 24 in.); C. x lusitanicus (White [Blotched with Carmine], June-July, 36 in.); C. x purpureus (Purple-red [Blotched with Crimson], June-July, 36-48 in.); C. X Skanbergii (Pink flowers, June-Aug., 30 in.); and C. villosus (Purple-crimson flowers, June-July, 24-36 in.). All these plants are delightful.

Claytonia (Spring Beauty). This genus includes a number of dwarf-growing hardy perennial plants that may successfully be introduced into the rock or wild garden. They grow from 2 toll inches high, bear white, pink, or red blossoms in the spring, and thrive in the sun or semi-shade and in almost any non-calcareous soil, though a mixture of half loam and half leaf-mould is to be preferred.

Culture. Sow seed in March where the plants are to flower, or propagate by means of division of roots in spring or late summer. Species. C. Australasica (a carpet of White flowers, 2 in.); C. caroliniana (Pink flowers); and C. virginica (White flowers).

Codonopsis. These are beautiful perennials with twining stems and a strong odour. They may with advantage be grown in some wild dry place high-up in the rock garden. Their pretty creamy-white to pale blue flowers appear in summer, and hang like bells from a twining mass of greyish leaves and stems some 3 to 4 feet in length. They thrive in the sun and in ordinary garden loam. Culture. Seed may be sown as soon as ripe or in March under glass, or, perhaps, the best method of propagation is by means of division of roots in spring or autumn. Species. C. Bulleyana (Blue, June-July, 8 in.); C. clematidea (Blue-grey bells, June-July, 3 ft.); C. convolvulacea (Lavender-blue, June-July, 4 ft.); C. Meleagris (Blue-grey, June-July, 12 in.); C. ovata (Blue, June-July, 8 in.); C. vinciflora (Small Blue flowers on short stems, rising from the main stem, June-July.). Colchicum (Meadow Saffron or Autumn Crocus). Hardy bulbous-rooted plants with flowers very like those of the crocus, only much larger and standing erect. They look like wine-glasses of the most exquisite colouring. As with the bulbocodium, the leaves do not appear until the flowers have faded. The plants are poisonous and should not be planted where children are likely to get at them. They grow from 4 to 10 inches high, with the exception of C. luteum which flowers in spring they bloom in September and October, and are really delightful plants for the rock garden, in view of the late season of their bloom. Culture. Plant in full sun in July or August, 5 inches deep and 6 inches apart in moist, cool loam. Lift from the ground (triennially) in August to increase them. Species. C. autumnale (Lilac-rose, 6 in.); C. Bornmuelleri (Lilac-pink, 9 in.); C. byzantinum (Rosy-lilac, 8 in.); C. cilicicum (Pink, 7 in.); C. luteum (Pale Yellow, 4 in.); C. montanum (Lilac or White, 4 in.); C. speciosum (Crimson, with Purple or White Eye, 10 in.). There are now a number of hybrids on the market which are well worth a position in the rock garden, perhaps the best known are Fern-down Beauty (Claret); Lilac Wonder (Violet); Princess Astrid (Light Violet); Violet Queen (Purple).

Comarum palustre (Marsh Cinquefoil).

Conandron ramondioides. Beautiful little dwarf-growing semi-hardy plants of tufted habit, that will make a pretty show in a sheltered site in the rock garden. The violet or white flowers, in shape like those of the potato, are borne in summer on short stems rising from the glossy, bright green begonia-like foliage. The plants will thrive best in semi-shade and in a well-drained, sandy and peaty loam. Culture. Seed may be sown under glass as soon as ripe, or in March. Protect with glass in winter.

Convolvulus. A number of whose species have now entered the rock garden successfully, without the risk of killing their neighbours, and may be planted in some chink on a high sunny position where they may be protected during severe winters. Propagate from seed sown in the spring and plant out in early summer. Species. C. Cantabrica (Pink, June-Aug., 6 in.); C. Cneorum (Pinkish-white trailer, June-Sept., 18 in.); C. incanus (large carpet Whitish pink flowers, June-Sept., 3 in.).

Cornus (Cornel, Dogwood, Cornelian Cherry). These are free-flowering deciduous shrubs and trees, with beautiful green, silvery-grey, or golden leaves, and a bright red or yellow bark, which features make them very attractive in winter. To name only a few C. alba sibirica (7 ft. high) is one of the most striking in this connection, and has white flowers in early summer. It will make a nice shrub for the bog or marsh garden; so will C. stolonifera, var. flaviramea with clear Yellow stems; C. florida with white flowers and red stems; C. florida rubra with rose flowers or bracts; and C. Kousa with large white flowers or bracts. Two dwarf-growing species, C. canadensis (6 in.) and C. suecica (3-10 in.), are hardy herbaceous perennials, especially useful for carpeting under and amongst small shrubs in the rock garden. Culture. Sow seed under glass, or propagate by means of layering in October, or by suckers in November. Plant out in spring or early autumn in the shade, and preferably in a mixture of moist leaf-mould and peat, or in ordinary soil. When the branches are overcrowded thin out after flowering.

Cistus (Rock Rose)

Corokia. Pretty, half-hardy evergreen shrubs, that grow to about 6 feet in height, and in May bear fragrant yellow or white star-shaped flowers. They do best in a warm, sunny position and in ordinary soil, and are well worth cultivating in the rock garden. Culture. Plant in April or October, and prune only to keep in shape. To propagate, strike half-matured cuttings in a frame in August. Species. C. Cotoneaster (Yellow); and C. virgata (Yellow).

Coronilla (Crown Vetch). Most of these are half-hardy evergreen or deciduous shrubs, but some are herbaceous perennials, and amongst the dwarf-growing species of the latter class are some of the prettiest plants that can be found for a dry wall or for ledges and crevices in the rock garden. They like a well-drained, sandy loam. Culture. Sow seed in a frame in March, or propagate by means of division of roots in October. Plant out in March or October in a sheltered position in either sun or shade. Species. C. cappadocica [syn. C. iberica] (Cream-white, July-Aug., 4 in.); C. minima (Yellow, June-July, 3 in.); C. varia (Pink, Aug.-Sept., 12-18 in.).

Cortaderia (Pampas Grass). Cortaderia is a new name for Gynerium, a very beautiful perennial grass which throws up long, silky plumes in the late summer, and makes a very attractive addition to the bog or marsh garden. A sunny, sheltered position is desirable, also well-drained soil. It grows some 6-8 feet high, and flowers in autumn. Culture. Sow seed in April, or propagate by means of division of roots in April or May. C. argentea has creamy-white plumes; and in C. conspicua the plumes are silvery-white.

Cortusa Matthioli (Bear's Ear). These are beautiful dwarf-growing, rosette-like plants, closely allied to the Primula, which do best in partial shade and in rich, sandy loam and leaf-mould, where in May and June they may throw up their primula-like stems bearing flowers of lovely magenta. They are very valuable for the rock or wall garden. Culture. Sow seed under glass as soon as ripe or in March, or propagate by means of division of roots in March or October.

Corydalis (Fumitory). Pretty little hardy annual and perennial plants with prettily cut foliage that looks much too delicate to withstand the damp and cold of our climate. They may be planted in the dry wall, the paved garden, or the less prominent parts of the rock garden. These plants require shade and will do quite well in comparatively poor soil. Culture. The annuals are hardly worth growing, but may be raised from seed in the usual manner. Sow seed in the open in April, or propagate by means of division of roots in October. Species. {Perennials) C. angustifolia (Pink, May-June, 8 in.); C. cava (bulbosa) (Purple and Rose, April-May, 12 in.); C. capnoides (Cream, May-Sept., 12 in.); C. cheilanthifolia (Yellow, May-June, 12 in.); C. lutea (Yellow, June-Sept., 6-12 in.).

Cotoneaster (Rockspray). This is a genus of hardy ornamental shrubs or small trees, most of which grow best in poor or chalky soil against a wall or trellis facing north or east. The species vary greatly in habit. Some grow as small trees; many kinds make erect bushes; others grow in long, arching shoots; while others again are prostrate and creeping by nature; the last-named class is valuable for the rock garden. C. adpressa is tight and neat in habit and its leaves assume a deep red in autumn. It is excellent for a small rock garden. C. congesta is also of a neat habit, its leaves being slightly larger than those of C. adpressa.

C. horizontalis and varieties, are shrubs, covered with red berries in the autumn upon large flattish branches. C. humifusa [syn. C. Dammeri] has larger leaves again, and is good for a fairly large garden. C. microphylla is a useful species; it grows well near the sea, in the shade, and under the drip of trees. C. thymifolia is of straggling habit, grows to a height of 18 inches, and bears pinkish flowers in April. Culture. Plant in March or October. No pruning is necessary, though certain species require thinning out after flowering. To propagate, sow seed in the open in March or September, take cuttings of hard wood in a frame in July or August, or layer in September or October.

Cotula. Hardy little trailing perennials with attractive fern-like foliage and tiny yellow composite flowers in summer. They thrive in sun or shade and in gritty loam in the chinks of a paved garden. Culture. Propagate by means of division of roots in March or October, and plant out in permanent position. C. pyrethrifolia and C. squalida are the best known.

Cotyledon (Pennywort). These are dwarf-growing succulent plants valuable for the rock or wall garden. They grow to about 12 inches high, bearing their cup-like, fleshy leaves in rosettes, and flowering in June. The cotyledons are happy in the sun and in dry, gritty loam, and sand, and may be propagated by means of seed sown under glass as soon as ripe or in March, by division of roots in spring, or by cuttings that have been dried in the sun for a few days before they are set in the soil. This is to dry up some of the sap in the succulent stems. See also Echeveria, and Umbilicus.

Crassula. A good plant for the Alpine House. It grows to a height of from 6 to 20 inches, and carries red, rose, or white flowers in summer or winter, according to species. The crassula grows well in a compost of f rds sandy loam and Jrd crushed brick and old mortar-rubble. Culture. Pot up in August or September. Keep fairly dry in winter {Temp. 45^o F. Winter to 65^o F. Summer). Water carefully, and keep the foliage dry while growing. These plants bloom well for several years. Propagate by means of cuttings in sand on a sunny shelf in the house in the summer, or by division in the spring. The cuttings should be dried in the sun for 2 or 3 days before insertion. C. sarcocaulis (Red, July-Sept., 12 in.) is a good species. See plants for the Alpine House. C. sarcocaulis is hardy in most parts of the British Isles; no other species is hardy.

Crocus. Besides those which bloom in the early spring (usually February), there are species and hybrids that flower in the autumn and winter. These less-known kinds, of which the violet-blue, September-flowering, C. speciosus, is one of the most lovely, are rather more delicate in shape and colouring and somewhat smaller. They are very lovely and should be much more popular than they are. These like a good light soil to which a little bonemeal has been added, and thrive in sun or shade and in a warm spot in the rock garden. Culture. Crocuses are increased by offsets after the foliage or "grass" has ripened, or by seed, the former being the usual method. Offsets are treated the same as old bulbs, and will bloom the second year. Seed should be sown as soon as ripe very thinly in well-drained pans of light, sandy loam, and placed in a sheltered situation out of doors until late autumn. During heavy rain and cold weather protect with a cold frame. They may remain in the same pans during summer, but should be lifted when the foliage dies down in autumn, being planted in beds of mellow loam in the reserve garden, 2 inches apart and 3 inches deep; here they will form strong bulbs during the third summer, and a few of them may flower, most of them, however, deferring to do so until the fourth spring. Crocuses are very accommodating in regard to the depth at which they are planted. From 2 to 3 inches deep and 4 inches apart is, perhaps, the best average; autumn-flowering species from July to August; spring-flowering species in September or October. Divide and replant every third year. Species. EARLY SPRING C. aureus (Golden Yellow); C. biflorus (White, veined Violet); C. chrysanthus (Rich Orange-yellow); C. Imperati (Lilac or Buff, and Black); C. Sieberi (Lilac-blue and Gold); C. Tomasinianus (Lavender and Orange); C. versicolor (White, feathered Purple); C. vernus and vars. (Various). AUTUMN C. asturicus (Purple); C. byzantinus [syn. C. iridiflorus] (Lavender); C. ochroleucus (Yellow); C. pulchellus (Lavender-blue and Orange Throat); C. sativus (Violet, Mauve, and Orange); C. speciosus (Violet-blue and Orange); C. zonatus (Lilac-pink with Orange Throat). NAMED VARIETIES. Pallas (White and Blue); White Lady (White); Mammoth (Yellow); Whitewell Purple (Lilac-pink); Striped Beauty (Purple, veined White); and Yellow Hammer (Yellow). All grow to a height of about 4 inches.

Crucianella stylosa. A dwarf-growing rock plant, which is sometimes used for filling a gap in the paved garden. It spreads rapidly, grows about 5 inches high, and from May to September carries clusters of small, rose-coloured flowers. A sunny position is desirable, also a gritty loam. Culture. Sow seed under glass as soon as ripe or in March, or propagate by means of division in March or October. This plant must be kept in check, or it will spread overmuch and, perhaps, smother choicer specimens.

Cryptogramma crispa (Mountain Parsley Fern). A hardy evergreen fern, growing some 5 inches high and thriving in partial shade or sun and in dry, sandy loam, peat and leaf-mould. This fern is a very effective plant for more or less shaded positions in the rock garden. Culture. Plant in April. Propagate by means of division in April. See also Ferns.

Cryptomeria japonica (Japanese Cedar). These are handsome evergreen trees, which do best in deep, sandy loam and in a sheltered, sunny situation. C. japonica nana, C. j. spiralis, and C. j. Vilmoriniana are dwarf species that may be grown in the rock garden. Culture -Plant from September to November. No pruning is required. To propagate its dwarf forms strike cuttings in August in sand under hand-lights.

Cupressus (Cypress) many of which are now under the family name of Chamcecyparis. This is a genus of quick-growing conifers, which thrive in sunny, sheltered positions and in almost any soil. C. Lawsoniana argentea compact a, C. L. glauca, C. L. nana, C. pisifera, vars. compacta variegata, C. p. plumosa aurea, C. p. squarrosa sulphurea, C. obtusa, var. tetragona aurea, C. obtusa nana, and C. thyoides, var. ericoides are dwarf-growing forms. Culture. Plant in April or Sept. No pruning is required, except in the case of hedge-plants. Most varieties are propagated by cuttings in a frame in August or September; species, however, are best raised from seed in March.

Cyananthus. These are useful little perennial trailing plants of rather tufted habit, which thrive in shady positions in the higher and drier parts of the rock garden and in moist, sandy loam, and peat. Masses of lovely light blue and purple-blue, bell-like flowers are borne on 3- to 6-inch stems in June, July, and August. Culture. Sow seed under glass as soon as ripe or in March, or propagate by means of division of roots in spring or autumn. Species. C. incanus (Light Blue, and Yellow forms, 3 in.); C. integer (Violet Blue, 3 in.); C. lobatus (the best known Violet Blue, 6 in.); C. lobatus, var. insignis (Light Blue, 6 in.); C. lobatus, var. Farreri (Violet Blue, 4 in.); C. Sheriffii (China Blue flowers on downy foliage, 3 in.).

Cyclamen (Sowbread). A genus of autumn- and spring-blooming, tuberous-rooted plants, with pretty, rounded, dark-green foliage, usually marbled with white. From amongst this foliage appear short, slender stems at the end of which hang the daintiest of crimson, pink, and white star-shaped flowers with all the points of the petals curved sharply backwards. Some of the hardy, dwarf-growing species are extremely attractive and invaluable for cultivation in the rock garden. C. count (3 in.), with purple-red or white flowers and dark green, rounded leaves, blooms in January or February. It is very hardy and excellent for naturalizing on a shady bank of grass. C. ibericum, the other well-known spring-flowering kind, also grows to a height of 3 inches, and bears crimson and purple, or crimson and white, flowers in March. The autumn-flowering species are represented by C. europceum (3 in.) with fragrant crimson blossoms in July and August, and C. neapolitanum, whose large flowers are pink with a purple throat, or pure white, and are borne, in August and September when the foliage appears, on stems 6 inches high. C. repandum, another excellent species, has rose-crimson flowers in May. It is not quite so hardy as the others. Culture. Plant in August, 1 inch deep so that the soil only just covers the tuber, and 2 inches apart, in a shady position and in well-drained, porous, light sandy loam mixed with peat or leaf-mould and ample old mortar-rubble. Protect with fibre in winter, and top-dress annually with leaf-mould and well-rotted manure. Propagate by means of seed in gentle heat in spring, and do not plant the young corms in their permanent positions until of moderate size.

Cydonia [syn. Chcenomeles'] (Quince). This genus includes hardy deciduous flowering trees and shrubs of spreading habit. They grow well in sunny positions and in ordinary soil, making exceedingly attractive subjects for a large rock garden. C. japonica, of which there are varieties with flowers of many shades of white, yellow, pink, or red, is often known as "japonica." When grown as a bush, it will reach a height of from 6 to 9 feet and will flower from March to June. Given the shelter of a south wall, it will often bloom as early as the end of January. C. lagenaria atrosanguinea is an upright shrub carrying blood-red flowers in profusion. A tree of dwarfed growth is C. Maulei, which rarely exceeds 4 feet in height. The flowers appear in March and are crimson, scarlet, orange, pink, or white. Culture. Plant in October or November. Cut out old wood and shorten side-shoots in June, and prune again in winter. Propagate by means of layering, by suckers, or by taking cuttings in October,

Cynoglossum (Hound's Tongue). This genus, whose leaves resemble the tongue of a dog, includes one or two useful annuals, biennials, and perennials, that will thrive in a rather poor soil. They bear deep blue, forget-me-not-like flowers from June to August. For use in the rock garden, we are only interested in C. Wallichii, now known as Eritrichium strict um; a beautiful little hardy perennial with blue flowers in July, on stems 10 inches high. It makes an invaluable addition to any rock garden. Culture. Sow seeds in April or September where they are to flower in the open, and thin out when fit to handle.

Cyperus longus (Nut Grass, Galingale). This belongs to a large genus of grasses or sedges, that thrive in the marsh or water garden. They like a sunny site in marshy soil at the edge of still water, and grow some 2 feet high, flowering in July and August. Culture. Propagate by means of seeds, or by division of roots in March, and plant with up to 6 inches of water above the crowns.

Cypripedium (Lady's Slipper). A genus containing hardy orchids, which thrive in semi-shade and in a compost of moist, sandy peat, or moist loam and leaf-mould. They make very choice subjects for a sheltered spot in the rock garden, and are easily propagated by means of division of roots in April or September. C. reginae [syn. spectabile] (20 in.), with pink and white flowers in June and July, is a useful little plant for the bog or marsh garden. It is best planted in masses on a fairly moist bank. Other Species. C. acaule (Rose and Purple, May-June, 6 in.); C. Calceolus (Brown and Yellow, May and June, 15 in.); C.japonicum (Pink, White, Green, June, 6-12 in.); C. macranthum (Rosy-purple, May-July, 9-12 in.); C. montanum (Brown, Red, White, May-July, 10 in.); C. pubescens (Creamy Pink, May-June, 12 in.).

Cystopteris (Bladder Fern). This is a genus of hardy deciduous ferns growing from 5 to 20 inches high and thriving in the shade in a compost of dry, sandy loam, leaf-mould, and old mortar-rubble. They make very decorative subjects for the rock garden. Culture. Plant in March or April. Propagate by means of division of roots in March or April, or sow spores under glass in July. See also Ferns.

Cytisus (Broom). This genus includes some very lovely shrubs, which are mostly hardy and deciduous, and thrive in a light ordinary soil, and in a dry, sunny position. The species and hybrids C. Ardoinii (Deep Yellow), C. x Beanii (Golden Yellow), C. decumbens (Yellow), C. kewensis (Creamy-white), C. nigricans (Yellow), and C. purpureus (Rose-purple), flowering in May and June, are all dwarf or trailing in habit and bear spikes of pea-like flowers. They are exceptionally suitable for planting on ledges in the rock garden. They flower on the previous year's growth. Culture. Cut back all branches by at least a third, and plant in October. After planting tread the soil well round the plants. Small plants give little trouble. Except when quite young, the cytisuses should only be trimmed to keep them in shape, for new shoots do not "break" easily from the old wood. Pruning must, therefore, be systematic and regular, so that it is not often necessary to cut into old wood. These spring-blooming varieties should be trimmed and pruned directly after flowering. Cytisus varieties are usually propagated by means of cuttings in August. Young plants need occasional "stopping-back." The genista is allied to the cytisus.

Daboecia (Irish Heath). The daboecia is a group of low-growing, hardy evergreen shrubs, rather straggling in habit, which grow to a height of 6 or 18 inches, and bear red, purple or white flowers abundantly from May to October. They are native of Ireland, and thrive in partial shade and in dryish sandy peat or leaf-mould, and loam with no lime in it. The daboecia is a most valuable shrub for the rock garden. Culture. Plant out, with the soil well up to the foliage, in March or October, and cut off dead blooms in October. To propagate, strike cuttings in a frame in July or August, layer in September, or sow seed. Species. D. azorica(Red); D. cantabrica [syn. D.polifoliaalba] (White); D. c. atropurpurea (Mauve-crimson); D. c. bicolor (Purple and White).

Daffodils (Narcissus Family). No spring flower is fairer or more graceful than the daffodil or narcissus. Technically speaking, the terms daffodil and narcissus are synonymous, for daffodil is merely the English for narcissus. The term daffodil, however, is popularly applied to those types of narcissi with long, trumpet-like corollas. The term narcissi, which really includes the whole genus, being reserved for those kinds with short cup-shaped corollas. For cultural details, see Narcissus.

Daphne. These are beautiful dwarf-growing deciduous and evergreen shrubs, remarkable for their fragrant, waxy flowers, and for their bright red poisonous berries. They are not easy to cultivate, but so fragrant and beautiful are the flowers that they are well worth considerable trouble. D. Mezereum (Purple, Rose, or White, March, 3 ft.), which is usually propagated by means of seed, is the best known of the hardy deciduous species. It thrives in ordinary garden loam, but needs shade from the hot sun. If trimming is necessary, it should be done in May. For the rock garden none are better than D. alpina (White, May, \\ ft.); D. Blagayana (Ivory, May, -ft.); and most lovely and fragrant of all the Garland Flowers, D. Cneorum (Purple-pink, May-June, 1 ft.). They thrive in partial shade and in sandy loam and peat or leaf-mould. Other Species. D. retusa (White scented flowers, May-June, 15 in.); D. Somerset of catalogues is one of the best hybrids with sweet scented Pink flowers (May-June, 30 in.); D. Tangutica (Lilac Pink, May-June, 2-3 ft.). Culture. Plant in March or October. No pruning is necessary. Propagate by layering in August, or by grafting in May. Indoor Culture. D. arbuscula (Pink, May-June, 6 in.) and D. petrcea [syn. D. rupestris] (Waxy Pink, April and May, 3-4 in.) are very small and useful species for cultivation in the Alpine House. Plant in a 4-5 inch shallow pan in February in a compost of 2 parts of loam to 1 part of peat and sand, with a little lime in it. (See Alpine House.) Plunge the pans in ashes in a cool, shady position out of doors from June to September. Give water in moderation, but keep on the dry side during winter. Move into the house in September. Propagate by means of cuttings of side shoots under glass in October or November, by layering in March, or by grafting in April.

Delphinium. This is a genus comprised mainly of tall herbaceous plants. There are a number, however, worthy of a place in the rock garden. They do best in good rich loam, and in a situation where they will be exposed to the sun. Culture. Plant out in March or in September. Propagate by sowing seed in March, or by division of roots in spring or autumn. Species. D. Brunonianum 150

Dianthus

(Light Blue and Violet, July-Aug., 18 in.); D. cashmerianum (Dark Violet, July-Aug., 18 in.); D. macrocentron (China Blue, Sept.-Oct, 48 in.); D. nudicaule (Brick-red, June-Aug., 12 in.); D. Pylzowii (Dark Blue, Autumn, 12-36 in.); D. tatsienense (Blue, Summer, 12-15 in.).

Deutzia. A genus of very lovely hardy deciduous shrubs with clusters of pretty snowdrop-like flowers (single or double) in May and June. They grow well in a sheltered, partially-shaded position and in rich, well-drained ordinary soil.

To name just a few the following species D. discolor (3-5 ft.) with white or pink flowers; D. gracilis (2-3 ft.) with white single flowers; D. scabra and D. scabrafl. pi. (6-8 ft.) with white and double pink flowers respectively; and D. Wilsonii (3 ft.) with white flowers, all make most attractive plants for the rock garden. Culture. Plant in October, mulch annually in the spring, and after flowering thin out well and cut away any weak and old wood. To propagate, strike cuttings of soft wood in June in a frame with bottom heat. All flower in May and June.

Dianthus. A beautiful and extensive genus from which a large proportion of very colourful rock plants are derived and which are. comparatively easy to grow, the genera embraces the Carnation, Picotee, Pink, and Sweet William. Of these, however, the Dianthus and its many species and hybrids are the only section that we propose describing a few from. With these the rock gardener may commence.

New varieties may be obtained from seed sown from April to September, and the older sturdier ones may be increased by means of cuttings struck in pots of sandy loam and leaf-mould in June and July, or by splitting the old plants up in spring and replanting where required.

Dianthus (Pinks) For The Rock Garden

Dicentra (Dielytra or Bleeding Heart). These are beautiful hardy perennials, which thrive in a sheltered, sunny site, and love a light, dry soil with ample leaf-mould in it. They produce masses of fern-like foliage, above which rise long, tapering stems from which hang the most charming little heart-shaped flowers of exquisite colour. For the rock garden the most suitable species are: D. canadensis (5 in.) with white flowers; D. chrysantha (18-24 in.) with yellow flowers; D. Cucullaria (5 in.) with creamy-white flowers; D. eximia (15 in.) with purple flowers; and D.formosa (12-20 in.) with red flowers. All these flower in May and June. Although hardy, they require a certain amount of protection in winter, and if D. spectabilis (24 in.), with its beautiful red or white blooms, which appear in June and July, is grown, as it sometimes is, in the rock garden, it is safer to winter it in a cold frame. Culture. Propagate by means of division of roots in April or September, and plant out.

Digitalis (Foxglove). This is a beautiful biennial and perennial which practically everyone has seen in the hedgerows and lanes in our countryside. It makes a useful addition to the drier sections of the bog garden, or close to the shrubs at the edge of the rock garden, for they are fond of partial shade and a rich, leafy, and loamy soil. The plants are easily produced from seed in much the same way as one produces the wallflower. They flower in various colours from June to August and grow from 15 to 30 inches in height. Species. D. dubia (Pinkish Purple); D. ferruginea (Brick-red); D. laevigata (Yellow); D. Mariana (Pink with White lips); and D. purpurea (Various colours).

Dimorphotheca aurantiaca (Cape Daisy or Star of the Veldt). A beautiful half-hardy annual that grows to a height of about 12 inches and bears a profusion of orange-yellow star-shaped flowers from July to September. There are also several hybrid varieties arising from D. aurantiaca and D. annua [syn. Calendula pluvialis], these are salmon, pale yellow, and rosy-cream in colour. They like a sunny position and a light soil, and are extremely useful subjects for inclusion in the rock garden. Culture. Sow seed thinly in May in a sunny position and in light soil, or sow in March under glass, i-inch deep in boxes in a compost of sandy loam, and plant out early in June about 6 inches apart.

Dodecatheon. This is the American Cowslip, which thrives well in a cool, moist, shady site in the rock or marsh garden a*nd in rich, deep, non-calcareous loam. The thick, leathery leaves grow in clumps like those of a primrose, and on the end of the stems appear umbels of beautiful cyclamen-like flowers. Culture. Sow seed under glass in March, or in the open in April, or propagate by means of division of roots in March or September. Species. D. Hendersonii (Rose, May, 6-12 in.); D. integrifolium (Lilac-purple, May-June, 12 in); D. Jeffreyi (Purple-rose, June-July, 18 in.); D. Meadia gigantea (Lilac, Rose, and White, May-June, 12-18 in.); and D. salinum (Lilac-purple, May-June, 6 in.).

Dog's Tooth Violet (Erythronium). The Dog's Tooth Violet, or Adder's Tongue, as it is sometimes called, is a pretty bulbous plant with beautiful spotted leaves and delicate pendulous cyclamen-like blooms on stems from 6 to 12 inches high. It does well in any light soil, and is remarkably effective in the rock garden, where it flowers during April and May. Culture. Plant in September 4 to 6 inches deep and 4 inches apart, in partial shade, in moist, well-drained, sandy loam and ample leaf-mould or peat. Surround the tubers with about an inch of silver sand, and do not lift more often than necessary, but mulch annually with well-rotted manure and leaf-mould. Propagate by means of seed in a frame in August. Thin out but do not plant the seedlings out until the third September after sowing. The plants are also increased by offsets. Species and Varieties. E. californicum (Cream and Yellow); E. citrinum (Yellow); E. Dens-canis (White to Rose); E. Hartwegii (Creamy-white); E. revolutum (Pink).

Douglasia. These are very effective dwarf-growing rock plants and also suitable for the Alpine House. They thrive in moist, gritty loam, growing about 3 inches high and flowering in June. They are of rather trailing habit and the foliage feels soft and silky to the touch. D. Icevigata (Pink); D. montana (Rose Pink); and D. Vitaliana (Yellow) are the best species. Culture. Sow seed under glass as soon as ripe pr in March, or propagate by means of division of roots in March or September, and plant out in semi-shade.

Draba. These dwarf-growing plants, also known as Whitlow Grass, are extremely useful for crevices in the rock or paved garden, for walls, and for the moraine or Alpine House. They grow in little bright green rosettes which form a compact mat that is studded from March to May with tiny flowers. The drabas thrive in a moderately sunny spot, and love a well-drained gritty loam. D. Aizoon is worthy of cultivation in the Alpine House. Culture. Sow seed under glass as soon as ripe or in March or April, or propagate by means of division of roots in April. No protection is necessary in winter. Species. D. Aizoon (Bright Yellow); D. Dedeana (White); D. imbricata (Yellow, Alpine House); D. Mollissima (Golden Yellow, Alpine House); D. polytricha (Golden Yellow, Alpine House); D. pyrenaica (Pale Mauve-pink); D. rigida (Golden Yellow, Alpine House). All flower from March to May, and grow to about 3 inches in height.

Dracocephalum (Dragon's Head). These hardy perennials, which bear blue onosma-like flowers, are well worthy of inclusion in either shady or sunny positions in the rock garden. They do best in a light soil. Culture. Sow seed in the open in April, or propagate by means of division of roots in March or October. Cuttings may also be taken in April and struck in sandy soil in a frame. Species. D. grandiflorum (15 in.); D. Isabella (6-8 in.); and D. Ruyschianum (15 in.). All flower in summer and are violet-blue in colour.

Drosera (Sundew or Youthwort). The foliage of these curious dwarf-growing plants is covered with glandular hairs, which cause it to look as if it were covered with dew. The leaves contract on contact, and thus entrap insects which settle on them. Droseras love a warm, sheltered position in the bog or marsh garden. They grow some 3 to 6 inches high and flower about midsummer. D. rotundifolia (White) is an attractive species, and does well in the Alpine House. Propagate by means of seed sown under glass as soon as ripe, or by means of division of roots in March. Species. D. intermedia (White).

Dryas (Mountain Avens). Pretty evergreen hardy perennials of trailing habit, liking sun or partial shade and a cool gritty loam with lime and leaf-mould in it. They grow about 3 inches high, flower in the summer, and are excellent subjects for carpeting and for planting on ledges in the rock garden, for they are lovely in winter as well as in summer. Culture. Sow seed under glass as soon as ripe or in April, take cuttings 2 inches long and strike in sandy soil in March or September. Plant out in permanent position in spring or early autumn.

They require no protection in winter. D. octopetala, which in June and July has large, white, strawberry-like flowers on stems 3 inches high, is the best known, and is a fascinating little plant for carpeting in the paved or rock garden. Other good species are D. Drummondii, with golden-yellow flowers in June and July, and D. x Sundermannii, with creamy-white flowers in July and August.

Dryopteris. See Ferns.

Echeveria. This genus comprises pretty little half-hardy, dwarf-growing, rosette-shaped plants with thick, fleshy, steely-blue leaves. They bear red and yellow flowers arranged like bells along a tall stem, and love warm, sunny, sheltered positions, but must be brought indoors in October. Culture. Pot-up in March in 4- to 5-inch pots in a compost of loam, leaf-mould and mortar-rubble. (Temp. 45^o F. Winter to 65^o F. Summer.) Place in a sunny position and water well while growing, but keep fairly dry in winter. Propagate by means of offsets growing from the base of the plant; these are easily detached and rooted in any good light soil. See also Cotyledon, in which genus these plants are now usually included.

Edelweiss (Leontopodium alpinum). Contrary to the popular opinion, the Edelweiss is neither rare nor difficult to grow. In Switzerland it is found almost everywhere, on the mountain peaks and in the valleys below. In most gardens this hardy perennial is easily grown, especially if it can have a sunny, dry position, and well-drained, poor, sandy loam to which has been added ample old mortar-rubble. The woolly, cream-white, star-shaped flowers are borne from June to September on stems 6 inches high. The edelweiss is a quaint subject for growing on walls, in the paved garden and in crevices, or on the moraine in the rock garden. Culture. Sow seed under glass as soon as ripe or in March, or propagate by means of division of roots in April, and plant out in permanent position. As it cannot stand too much damp, in winter the plant should be covered by a hand-light or a sheet of glass.

Eichhornia (Water Hyacinth). For culture see Pontederia.

Empetrum nigrum (Crowberry). This is a heath-like, dwarf-growing shrub indigenous to all alpine regions and, given conditions similar to those obtaining in these parts, easy to grow. The beautiful purple and pink flowers appear in early summer and in the autumn these are followed by showy black berries.

Enkianthus. Beautiful flowering shrubs, natives of China and Japan, which like a sunny, sheltered position and deep, moist peat or non-calcareous sandy loam and leaf-mould. The bell-shaped flowers are borne on short stems that radiate horizontally and in rings from the main branches. In autumn the foliage becomes a gorgeous red (in E. japonicus, white). They should certainly be planted in the bog or marsh garden. Culture. Plant in October; no pruning is necessary. To propagate, strike cuttings of mature shoots in October in a frame. Species. E. campanulatus (Cream, Yellow, and Red, May, 4-8 ft.); E. himalaicus (Orange-red, May-June, 10-15 ft.); E. japonicus (White, March, 4-8 ft.).

Eomecon chionanthum (The Dawn Poppy). Requires a warm sheltered corner of the rock garden where it will send up on foot-high stems creamy-white flowers in May and June. May be grown from seed sown in early Spring, and planted out in September.

Epigaea repens. The American Ground Ivy is an ericaceous creeper with pearly white flowers in May. It may be grown in a moist sandy-peat corner of the rock garden. It is best propagated by division in Spring.

Epilobium (The Willow Herb). Hardy herbaceous perennials, the dwarf-growing species of which are especially valuable for the rock garden, and the marsh or water garden, where they will sow themselves in their thousands. They do well in sun or shade on moist banks by the water-side in ordinary soil, but prefer a gritty loam with some peat in it. Culture. Sow seed in the open in April, or propagate by means of division of roots in March or November, and plant out in permanent position. Species. E. Dodonm (Red, June-Sept., 1-3 ft.); and E. obcotdatum (Rosy-purple, Aug.-Oct., 6 in.).

Epimedium (Barrenwort). These pretty dwarf-growing perennials thrive in sun or shade and in sandy loam with a little leaf-mould or peat added. Although the flowers are very beautiful, these plants are especially valuable because of the beauty of their foliage, which is tinted in spring and autumn. They make exceptionally valuable subjects for growing on ledges and rough places in the rock garden. Culture. Propagate by means of division of roots in August. Plant out in permanent position in spring or early autumn. No protection is necessary in winter. Species. E. alpinum (Yellow and Crimson, April-July, 9 in.); E. Musschianum (White, May, 9 in.); E.xrubrum (Rose, April-May, 10 in.).

Eranthis (Aconite). The Eranthis or Winter Aconite is a bright little tuberous-rooted perennial with golden buttercup-like flowers surrounded by a fringe of green. It likes a shady position and moist, sandy loam and leaf-mould. The eranthis grows about 4 inches high, and flowers in January and February. It is a very useful perennial for cultivation in the rock garden. Culture. Plant in October 2 inches apart and 2 inches deep. Do not lift from the ground. Propagation is carried out by means of division of roots in October.This plant also seeds itself freely. Species and Hybrids. E. cilicica (Yellow); E. x Tubergeni (Deep Yellow); and E. hyemalis (Yellow). All flower from January to February and grow about 4 inches high.

Erica. An important genus of hardy and half-hardy evergreen flowering shrubs, often known as Heath or Heather. The hardy dwarfer species are very pleasing when grown as edgings or on slopes in the rock garden. Culture. Plant in October not too firmly and with the soil well up to the foliage. They should be given a sunny or semi-shaded position in well-drained sand and peat, or in any light garden loam without lime (most vars.). Do not prune, but keep the bushes in shape by removing dead blooms from the spring-flowering species in June, from the summer and autumn-bloomers in March, and from winter-flowerers in April. This removal of all shoots that have flowered is essential to the health of the plants. However carefully trimmed, the plants become straggly after five or six years and should then be removed, being replaced by younger and smaller specimens. To propagate, in July strike cuttings of half-matured wood in a frame, sow seed in the open in March, divide the roots in autumn, or layer in autumn. Species. E. carnea (Carmine-crimson and White, Nov.-April, 1/2-1 ft.); E. cinerea [Bell or Scotch Heather] (Purple, Sept., f ft.); E. c. alba (White, Sept., f ft.); E. c. pallida (Very Pale Pink, Sept., f ft.); E. lusitanica (White, Jan.-April, 3/4 ft.); E. mediterranea (Lilac-rose, March-May, 2-3 ft.); E. m. alba (White, March-May, 2 ft.); E. Tetralix [Cross-leaved Heath] (Pink, May-June, 1 ft.); E. vagans (Cornish Heath) (Pink, June, 9 in.). There are now numerous named varieties of all the foregoing on the market and it would require a Heath Garden to accommodate them. Readers should consult a grower's catalogue. See also Calluna and Daboecia.

Erigeron (Fleabane). The erigerons are easily-grown summer-flowering plants with daisy-like blossoms on stems from 4 to 40 inches high, according to species, and most useful for cutting. They are closely related to the Michaelmas Daisies, but have a tendency to be much more trailing in habit. The species grown are hardy herbaceous perennials, which thrive in sunny situations and in ordinary soil. The dwarf-growing species, E. alpinus (Purple, July, 6 in.) and E. aurantiacus (Orange, July-Aug., 6-12 in.) are excellent subjects for the rock garden; E. compositus (Light Blue, May-Sept., 3 in.); E. leiomerus (Violet Blue, May-June, 4 in.); E. mucronatus (this plant was known as Vittadinia triloba) (White and Pink, Summer, 8 in.); and E. trifidus (Pale Lavender, May-June, 3 in.) are exceptionally effective when grown on walls. Culture. Sow seed under glass as soon as ripe or in March, in the open in April, or propagate by means of division of roots in March or October, and plant out in permanent position.

Erinacea pungens [syn. AnthyHis Erinaced] (Hedgehog Broom). These beautiful little shrubs, which in April carry pale purple-blue, pea-shaped flowers on spiny, almost leaflless bushes, are of the Broom family and natives of Spain. They love a hot dry situation. Strike cuttings in October or sow seeds in spring.

Erinus (Summer Starwort). A very pretty hardy and evergreen plant, which is useful for filling in spaces between rocks, and for the crevices in paving or old walls, where it forms clumps and sends up masses of nodding flower stems throughout the summer. It spreads rapidly, grows about 4 inches high, doing well in sun or shade and in sandy loam and old mortar-rubble. Culture. Sow seed under glass in March and plant out in spring or early autumn, or divide the roots in autumn. No protection is necessary in winter. Species. E. alpinus (Lilac-rose and White); E. a. carmineus (Carmine). Hybrids. E. a. Dr. Hanele (Carmine, May-June, 4 in.); and E. a. Mrs. Chas. Boyle (Brilliant Rose, May-June, 6 in.).

Eriogonum. These are pretty little trailing plants with silvery foliage and yellow flowers in August. They like a sunny position and a well-drained, gritty loam, and are very useful in the wall garden. Seed may be sown under glass in March, or division of roots may be carried out in spring or autumn. Species. E. flavum (Yellow, July-Aug., 7-9 in.); E. ovalifolium (Yellow, June-Aug., 7 in.); E. subalpinum (Creamy-yellow, July-Aug., 6 in.).

Eritrichium. Beautiful hardy alpines of the forget-me-not family, that grow best in sheltered, sunny places on the moraine and in a cool compost of gritty loam, leaf-mould, peat, and sand mixed with sandstone, but which are very difficult to grow in England, even on the moraine. They will probably be happier in the Alpine House. Above all, keep moisture away from the crowns in winter. Propagation is by means of division of roots in April, or by seed. They need protection from frost and damp in winter, and must be kept just nicely moist in summer. E. nanum is a dazzling sky-blue flower with a yellow centre and woolly, silvery-grey leaves arranged in a tuft like a pincushion. The flowers are borne on 2-inch stems in May. A taller growing variety sometimes placed in catalogues under Cynoglossum Wallichii, is in fact Eritrichium rupestre (Pale Blue forget-me-not colour, about 6 in.).

Erodium (Heron's Bill). These are perennials of the geranium family, which do well in sandy loam and in dry, warm, sheltered situations on rocky ledges or walls, or on the moraine in the rock garden. Some are hardy, but many are only half-hardy. In many species the fern-like leaves are silvery and fragrant and add to the interest of the plant. E. absinthoides and E. amanum (White and Rose, May-July, 6 in.); and E. chrysanthum (Yellow, June-Aug., 5 in.); are valuable as subjects for culture in the Alpine House, see list. Culture. Sow seed under glass as soon as ripe or in March, take cuttings in July and strike in sandy soil in a frame, or propagate by means of division of roots in April and plant out in permanent position. Other Species. E. chanuedryoides (White, veined Pink, May-Sept., 3 in.), which is also useful in the paved garden; E. corsicum (Rose-pink, July and Aug., 3-5 in.); E. macradenum (White, tinged Rose and blotched Violet, June-Oct., 6 in.); E. romanum (Clear Pink, April-May, 5 in.); and E. Manescavi (Red-purple, May-Oct., 10-15 in.).

Eryngium. A large genus of herbaceous plants belonging to the Thistle family from which one or two are suitable for the larger rock garden or wild garden. Propagated from seed, sown in spring in the nursery, then planted out a little later in the year. They have steel-blue foliage, and those most suitable grow from 9 to 18 inches high and flower in the autumn. Species. E. amethys-tinwn (Lavender-blue); E. alpinum (Blue); and E. serbicum (Blue).

Erysimum (Fairy Wallflower, Hedge Mustard). A genus of free-flowering and exceedingly showy plants very like the wallflower in habit of growth. It includes hardy annuals, biennials, and perennials all excellent for sunny positions in the rock garden and loving a gritty and sandy loam. Culture. All species may be easily raised from seed sown in the open in April or May. Thin annuals out to 12 inches apart when fit to handle, and plant out others in their permanent positions in October. The perennial species are also propagated by division of roots in March. E. Perofsfyianum, a hardy annual 12 to 18 inches high and with small but showy orange flowers from July to October, is one of the best known. E. pulchellum [syn. rupestre] (9 in.) with sulphur yellow flowers in spring and early summer, and E. linifolium (6 in.) with lavender flowers from May to September, make most excellent additions to any rock garden. Other Species. E. asperum (Orange Yellow, May-June, 12in.); andE. capitatum (Creamy-white, April-May, 9 in.).

Erythraea diffusa [syn. Centaurium scilloides]. These are dwarf-growing plants that are worthy of inclusion in the paved garden. They like a sunny site and a gritty loam, and grow about 3 inches high. The rose-coloured flowers are borne in summer over dense little clumps of glistening green leaves. Seed should be sown under glass as, soon as ripe or in March.

Erythronium. See Dog's Tooth Violet.

Eschscholzia (Californian Poppy). A showy and profusely flowering class of hardy annuals with fern-like foliage and poppy-like flowers. They are remarkable for their extremly rich and beautiful colouring and thrive in hot, sunny situations and in poor, light soil. The dwarf-growing species, such as E. tenuifolia, otherwise known as Californica ccespitosa, with rich yellow flowers, makes a welcome addition to the rock garden. The glaucous foliage is erect and grows in tufts some 6-9 inches in height. Culture. Sow seed thinly in the open from March to June or in the autumn, and thin out to 6 inches apart when the seedlings are fit to handle; the autumn-sown plants bloom in the early summer; the spring-sown from June to October.

Euphorbia (Spurge). A large genus, including annuals, biennials, and perennials. Many of them are stove and greenhouse plants. The hardy perennials are the only ones that interest us here. E. epithymoides, 15 inches high, with yellow blooms; and E. myrsinites, 6 inches, with glaucous foliage and yellow flowers, are subjects for ledges in the rock garden and like a well-drained, gritty loam and full sun. E. palustris (Marsh Spurge), 3 feet, may be grown in the drier parts of the bog or marsh garden. Culture. Sow seed under glass as soon as ripe or in March, take cuttings in July and strike in sandy soil under glass, or propagate by means of division of roots in April or September.

Evening Primrose. See CEnothera.

Fabiana (False Heath). These are half-hardy evergreen summer-flowering shrubs, suitable for warm and sheltered positions. They do best in a sandy loam with some peat in it. The best known species, F. imbricata, is sometimes grown in the rock garden. It attains a height of some 5 feet, and in summer carries white, tubular flowers on spikes some 10 inches long. In northern counties it will need the protection of the cool house. Propagate in April or May by means of cuttings of young shoots in a warm frame, or sow seed in heat in March.

Ferns. Hardy ferns thrive in sheltered and shady positions. They should be given a moist but well-drained deep loam with plenty of leaf-mould, peat, and coarse sand in it. They are excellent subjects for the rock garden. Dead fronds should be left to act as a protection in winter. Half-hardy kinds require slight artificial heat in winter, and tender ferns a temperature of 60 F. See chapter on Ferns. Species. {Hardy) Adiantum pedatum (Maidenhair Fern); Asplenium officinarum (Spleenwort); Athyrium filix-fcemina (Lady Fern); Blechnum [syn. Lomarid] (Hard Fern); Nephrodium dilatatum (Broad Buckler Fern); Osmunda regalis (Royal Fern); Polypodium vulgare (Polypody); and Polystichum [syn. Aspidiuni] aculeatum (Hard Shield Fern); P. [syn. Aspidium] angulare (Soft Shield Fern).

Forget-me-not (Myosotis). There are many species of this plant: some are annual; others are perennial, many of the latter being grown as biennials. They all thrive in the sun and in moist, gritty loam, and are extremly useful subjects for the rock garden. M. rupicola, a dwarfer species of M. alpestris, only grows about 3 inches high, and likes a position on the moraine. M. azorica, a half-hardy plant some 9 inches in height with violet blue flowers in June, may only be safely grown in the Alpine House. M. ccespitosa Rehsteineri is suitable for the paved garden, and M. scorpioides is a valuable species for growing at the margin of still or slowly-moving water. Culture. {Annuals) Sow seed thinly from June to July in the open, cover very lightly with mould, and thin out to 5 inches apart when fit to handle. {Perennials) Sow seed in the open from April to July or propagate by means of division of roots in October and plant out about 5 inches apart.

Species. M. pyrenaica (Blue, Pink, and White, June-Aug., 6 in.); M. ccespitosa Rehsteineri (Blue, April-May, 2 in.); M. dissitiflora (Light Blue, April-June, 6-9 in.); M. scorpioides [syn. M. palustris] semperflorens (Sky-blue and Yellow, May-Sept., 6-9 in.).

Frankenia laevis and F. thymifolia (Sea Heath). Hardy evergreen plants of dwarf habit, that are useful for the paved or rock garden. They grow from 1 to 3 inches high and flower from June to August. Culture. Sow seed under glass as soon as ripe or in March, or propagate by division of roots in the spring. They like plenty of sun and a gritty loam to which a little peat has been added.

Fritillaria. These are attractive hardy bulbous plants with pendant, bell-shaped flowers. They will succeed in any garden soil, although a dry, deep and rich sandy loam gives the most satisfactory results, except in the case of F. Meleagris, which thrives on damp banks in the marsh or bog garden. The dwarf-growing species are excellent subjects for shady positions in the rock garden. Culture. Plant in October, 4 inches deep and 7 inches apart, and do not lift from the ground unless overcrowded; when necessary lift and re-plant immediately. Propagate by means of bulbous offsets in October. Species. F. aurea [syn. F. lutea or F. latifolia] (Golden Yellow, 4-8 in.); F. camschatcensis (Dark Wine-purple, 12 in.); F. libanotica (Lilac and Yellow, 15 in.); F. Meleagris (Purple or White, 10 in.); F. pluriflora (Rosy Purple, 6-8 in.); F. pudica (Dark Yellow, 4-8 in.); F. pyrenaica (Brownish-purple, 12-18 in.); F. recurva (Red outside, Orange inside, 12 in.). All flower in April and May.

Fuchsia. Few flowers are more pleasing either in form or colour than the fuchsias. The plants have a grace and beauty peculiar to themselves. In addition to the many species so often met with in the greenhouse, there are hardy kinds that will thrive outdoors, even through severe winters. A great many that are looked upon as tender can stand a winter in the open if they are covered with 3 or 4 inches of dry cinder ashes at the first approach of frost. The best plan, in exposed positions, is to cut them right down in November and to cover the whole bed with a good coating of ashes or fibre. The ashes should not be removed until the fuchsias begin to shoot in the spring. If the bushes have not been cut down to the ground in winter, the dead ends should be trimmed off in March. Hardy fuchsias make a good show in late summer in mild districts, when several kinds are planted together, the colours being judiciously blended. They are also useful if used to form a hedge, and make effective plants for large rock gardens. Except in the south and west of England, a sheltered position is necessary. They are best planted out in March or April in light, well-drained soil with leaf-mould in it. Species. (Hardy) F. magellanica, [syn. corallina F. x exoniensis] (Purple and Red); F. magellanica, var. macrostemma (Scarlet); F. m. globosa (Violet and Purple); F. m. pumila (Bright Ruby, 9 in.); F. m. Riccartonii (Bright Red); F. microphylla (Pink, 24-36 in.); F.procumbens (Pink trailer, 3-5 in.); F. thymifolia (Coral Pink, 24-30 in.). All flower from July to September, and except where otherwise mentioned grow from 5 to 6 feet in height. There are numerous named varieties.

Funkia. See Hosta.

Galanthus. See Snowdrop.

Galax aphylla (Fairies' Wand or Carpenter's Leaf). This is a beautiful little creeping evergreen with white flowers borne in summer on 6-inch long spikes. It has richly tinted foliage in autumn, and thrives in partial shade in the rock garden and in a mixture of moist sandy loam and leaf-mould, or preferably in peat. It is best propagated by division of roots in spring or early autumn.

Garrya. The only species grown to any extent is G. elliptica (Californian Garrya), a hardy evergreen shrub with long, oval leaves and yellow or greenish-yellow flowers from November to March. It forms a bush 8 or more feet in height, or may be grown as a climber on a wall. The garrya is a good shrub for planting in gardens situated near the sea, and is frequently grown in large rock gardens.

Verbena Venosa Gazania, Orange Splendens

Culture. Plant from October to March in ordinary soil and in a sunny, sheltered position. In May trim back long shoots and cut out dead wood^ To propagate, strike cuttings in August in a frame.

Gaultheria (Winter Green, etc.). A genus of low-growing evergreen, heath-like shrubs, some of which are hardy and suitable for the marsh or rock garden. The best of the creeping or dwarf species are G. nummularioides with pinkish white bell-shaped flowers from June to August; G. procumbens; G. trichophylla (Pink); G. Miqueliana (White); G. Shallon (Pinkish White); and G. Veitchiana, are small shrubs. The tiny bell-shaped flowers, white or pink and borne in summer, are quite insignificant.

Culture Plant in April or October in co