*THE RHUBARBS.
The Rhubarbs, from their vigour and picturesqueness, are well worthy of cultivation among hardy, fine-leaved plants. They are so hardy that they may be planted in any soil, and afterwards left to take care of themselves. Their fine leaves and bold habit make them valuable ornaments for the margins of shrubberies (the best way is to plant one singly a few feet from the margin of the shrubbery, so that when they die down in autumn no blank may be seen), and for semi-wild places where a very free and luxuriant type of vegetation is desired. Though not particular as to soil, they enjoy it when it is deep and rich, and the more it is made so the better they will grow.
Rheum Emodi is undoubtedly the handsomest and most distinct of the genus in cultivation. The figure conveys an accurate idea of the outline of its leaves, and of its aspect when in flower. The large leaves have their veins red, which distinguishes it from any other species. It has a large and deep-feeding root, black on the outside, and yellow within. The flowers are very small, of a yellowish white. It comes up somewhat later than the common kinds, and is not by any means common, though it may be found in botanic gardens and nurseries where collections of herbaceous plants are formed. It may, like all the species, be increased by division, but a young plant should not be disturbed for several years after being planted. It is a native of Nepaul.
The palmated rhubarb, Rheum palmatum, is immediately distinguished from its cultivated fellows by its leaves
being deeply cut into lobes. It is scarcely so ornamental or imposing as the fuller-leaved kinds, but is an interesting plant. I have seen it grown in some Irish gardens for culinary purposes, but do not remember to have noticed it in English kitchen-gardens. When well grown in deep and rather light and well-drained earth, the flowering-stem of this species attains a height of about nine feet. It is a native of Tartary, and well deserves a place. Rheum Ribes is a somewhat delicate species, a native of Southern Persia, which may be seen in one or two of our botanic gardens, and more frequently in those of France; but we fear it is not hardy enough to thrive well in these islands. The most remarkable known species is the Himalayan (R. nobile), which has its flower-stems beautifully clothed with large straw-coloured and pink-edged bracts, so as to form what may be termed a pyramid of leaves; but, as this species is not in cultivation, we need not describe it further. It would prove a very welcome addition to our collection of hardy plants.
The common rhubarbs are said by some of our authorities to have chiefly sprung from Rheum Rhaponticum, and some of them have also come from the wavy-leaved Rheum (R. undulatum). In any case, some of the garden varieties of rhubarb are worth planting for ornamental purposes. They have been so planted in Hyde Park, but in masses—not the proper way to employ them. Kinds deserving of notice are R. australe, R. compactum, R. rugosum, R. hybridum, Victoria rhubarb (a garden variety, with very large leaves and long red stalks), Myatt’s Linnæus, and Prince Albert (also garden varieties, and splendid ornamental plants). Mr. Shirley Hibberd says he has found Scott’s Monarch to be the most imposing and ornamental of all the garden varieties.
*Rhus Cotinus (Venetian Sumach).—A bushy shrub, about 6½ ft. high, with simple, smooth, shining green leaves, and a very remarkable feathery inflorescence of a deep red colour. It requires a dry, gravelly, warm soil, and will grow in the most arid positions. Where it thrives the effect of its peculiar inflorescence is very fine and distinct. It is used with most effect as an isolated specimen, though it would group very well with such plants as Lindley’s Spiræa. S. Europe.
*Rhus glabra laciniata.—This variety of the smooth or scarlet Sumach is a small shrub with compound leaves, growing from 4 ft. to 7 ft. high, a native of North America, with finely-cut and elegant leaves, the strongest being about a foot long when the plants have been established a year or two. When seen on an established plant, these leaves combine the beauty of those of the finest Grevillea with that of a fern frond, while the youngest and unfolding leaves remind one of the aspect of a finely-cut umbelliferous plant in spring. The variety observable in the shape, size, and aspect of the foliage makes the plant charming to look upon, while the midribs of the fully-grown leaves are red, and in autumn the whole glow off into bright colour after the fashion of American shrubs and trees. During the entire season it is presentable, and there is no fear of any vicissitude of weather injuring it. Its great merit is that, in addition to being so elegant in foliage, it has a very dwarf habit, and is thoroughly hardy. Plants three years old and undisturbed for the last two years are not more
than eighteen inches high. The heads of some are branched, but these are not less elegant than when in a simple-stemmed state, so that here we have clearly a subject that will afford a charming fern-like effect in the full sun, and add graceful verdure and distinction to the flower-garden. When the flowers show after the plant is a few years old, they may be pinched off; but this need only be practised in the case of permanent groups or plantings of it. To produce the effect of a Grevillea or a fern on a small scale, we should of course keep this graceful Rhus small and propagate it like a bedding-plant. Like most other shrubs, it has a tendency to branch; but to fully enjoy the beauty of the leaves it is best to cut down the plants yearly, as then the leaves given off from the simple erect stem are much larger and more graceful. It will, however, be necessary to allow it to become established before treating it in this way, as it is at present comparatively new to our gardens. The figure, sketched early in August, represents a young plant little more than a foot high, which had been cut down to the ground during the spring of the past year, and proves that its full beauty may be enjoyed in a very small state. It may be most tastefully used in association with bedding-plants, or on banks in or near the rock-garden or hardy fernery, planting it in light sandy loam. The graceful mixtures and bouquet-*like beds that might be made with the aid of such plants need not be suggested here, while of course an established plant, or groups of three, might well form the centre of a bed. Planting a very small bed or group separately in the flower-garden, and many other uses which cannot be enumerated here, will occur to those who have once tried it. Some hardy plants of fine foliage are either so rampant or so topheavy that they cannot be wisely associated with bedding-plants. This is, on the contrary, as tidy and tractable a grower as the most fastidious could desire. It would be a mistake to put such a pretty plant under or near rough trees and shrubs. Give it the full sun, and good free soil.
*Rhus vernicifera is distinct from the preceding, and has fine leaves. It is a native of Japan, and the source of the best Japan varnish according to Thunberg. Useful for grouping with the preceding or other hardy shrubs of like character.
*Ricinus communis (Castor-oil Plant).—When well grown in the open air, there is not in the whole range of cultivated plants a more imposing subject than this. It may have been seen nearly 12 ft. high in the London parks of late years, and with leaves nearly 1 yd. wide. It is true we require a bed of very rich deep earth under it to make it attain such dimensions and beauty; but in all parts, and with ordinary attention, it grows well. In warm countries, in which the plant is very widely cultivated, it becomes a small tree, but is much prettier in the state in which it is seen with us—i.e., with an unbranched stem clothed from top to bottom with noble leaves. Soon after it betrays, a tendency to develope side-shoots the cold autumn comes and puts an end to all further progress; and so much the better, because it is much handsomer in a simple-stemmed state than any other. The same is true of not a few other large-leaved plants—once they break into a number of side-shoots their leaf beauty is to a great extent lost. It is as easily raised from seed as the common bean, requiring, however, to be raised in heat. It should be sown about the middle of February, and the plants gradually hardened off so as to be fit to put out by the middle of May. The Ricinus is a grand plant for making bold and noble beds near those of the more brilliant flowers, and tends to vary the flower-garden finely. It is not well to associate it closely with bedding-plants, in consequence of the strong growth and shading power of the leaves, so to speak. A good plan is to make a compact group of the plant in the centre of some wide circular bed and surround it with a band of a dwarfer subject, say the Aralia or Caladium, and then finish with whatever arrangement of the flowering plants may be most admired. A bold and striking centre may be obtained, while the effect of the flowers is much enhanced, especially if the planting be nicely graduated and tastefully done. For such groups the varieties of the Castor-oil plant are not likely to be surpassed. East Indies.
The most notable varieties are R. c. sanguineus, the stem, leaf-stalks, young leaves, and fruit of which are of a blood-red colour; R. c. borboniensis, which in southern climates often attains the extraordinary height of 26 ft. in one year; R. c. giganteus, a very tall kind from the Philippine Islands.
Other kinds in cultivation are R. Belot Desfougerès (a very tall and branching kind), R. viridis (of a uniform lively green colour), R. insignis, R. africanus, R. africanus albidus, R. minor, R. hybridus, R. microcarpus.
The better and richer the soil, and the warmer the position, the more vigorous will be the growth of any of the above. Copious watering in summer is indispensable.
*Rumex Hydrolapathum.—A very large native water-plant of a size and habit sufficiently striking to entitle it to a place amongst ornamental subjects by the water-side. The radical long-stalked leaves, which are sometimes 2 ft. or more in length, form erect tufts of a very imposing character. The flowering-stem is frequently 6 ft. in height, and bears a very large, dense, pyramidal panicle of a reddish or olive-fawn colour. The plant is most effective in autumn, when the leaves change to a lurid red colour, which they retain for some time.
*Saccharum ægyptiacum.—A vigorous perennial grass, forming ample tufts of reed-like downy stems 6½ ft. to 13 ft. high, and clothed with very graceful foliage, well adapted for ornamenting the margins of pieces of water, the slopes and other parts of pleasure-grounds, etc., in a warm position. In our climate it does not flower, but even without its fine feathery plumes it is a pretty plant from its foliage and habit alone. Easily and quickly multiplied by division in spring; the offsets to be started in a frame or pit. When established they may be planted out in May or June. N. Africa.
*Sagittaria sagittifolia.—A British water-plant, affording the most remarkable example of the arrow-shaped leaf to be met with among hardy plants. These leaves stand erect, from 1 ft. to 1½ ft. above the water, and from the middle of the tuft the flowering-stem rises in August to the height of 1½ ft. to 2½ ft. The flowers are of a pale rosy-white colour. There is a variety with double flowers (S. sagittifolia flore pleno), which resemble the flowers of the double Rocket. Both the double and single kinds should have a place among water or bog plants.
*Salvia argentea (S. patula).—A handsome biennial about 3½ ft. high, forming broad spreading rosettes of large, oval, heart-shaped leaves, densely covered with long silky hairs of a silvery whiteness, and bearing large panicles of white flowers. An excellent subject for grouping on grass-plats or the uneven parts of pleasure-grounds. Where the effect of the foliage only is desired the flower-stems should be pinched off as soon as they appear; the leaves will then preserve their freshness and silvery colour throughout the year. A light, sandy, or gravelly soil is the most suitable. Easily propagated by sowing in autumn, and keeping the seedlings in a cold frame through the winter, giving them air as often as possible, and watering very moderately. This plant is most effective during its first summer, and before it makes an attempt to flower. S. Europe.
*Scirpus lacustris (Bulrush).—This giant rush sends up numerous smooth green stems as thick as the finger at the base, and from 3 ft. to 8 ft. high. In still water the bases of these are covered with leafless sheaths, but in running water the uppermost sheath produces at its extremity a leaf of several inches in length, in addition to which numerous barren tufts of leaves, often of great length, and resembling those of Sparganium affine, are also produced. When in flower, the stems are crowned with short, umbel-like, chestnut-coloured panicles. It is very effective on the margins of lakes or streams, associated with other tall and imposing aquatic plants.
Seaforthia elegans.—One of the most beautiful of the Palm family, from the northern parts of Australia, where it attains a height of about 30 ft., but in this country seldom arrives at more than half its full size. The leaves are from 2 ft. to 10 ft. in length, and are divided into numerous narrow leaflets from 1 ft. to 1½ ft. long, and of a dark green colour. The whole plant is perfectly smooth, and is one of the finest subjects in cultivation for the conservatory, greenhouse, or subtropical garden. It may be placed in the open air from the middle or end of May until the beginning of October. It is too scarce as yet to be procurable by horticulturists generally, but should be looked for by all who take an interest in these matters and have a house in which to grow it. It stands well in the conservatory during the winter, though generally kept in the stove, where of course it grows beautifully. There are hardier kinds—the dwarf Fan-palm for example—but on the whole none of them are so valuable as this.
Senecio Ghiesbreghtii.—A handsome Mexican plant with stout, round, spotted stems, 3 to 4 ft. high, and large oval-oblong, thick, coarsely-toothed leaves of a light green colour, and slightly rolled down at the margin. Flowers small, yellow, very numerous, in corymbose clusters of enormous size. A useful plant for isolation on grass-plats, or for beds, etc. Young plants are to be preferred for this purpose, as the old ones are apt to become bare and ragged-looking at the base. Plant in a mixture of peat soil and free loam at the end of May. Multiplied by cuttings in winter, struck under glass in a temperate heat in early spring.
Senecio Petasites (Cineraria platanifolia).—Another Mexican species, nearly 3½ ft. high, with a stout, half-shrubby, slightly-branching stem, and large, dark-green, roughish, lobed leaves. It requires a substantial, but free and cool soil, and may be multiplied at almost any season by cuttings. It requires greenhouse protection in winter, grows freely in the open air planted out in early summer, and is suitable for beds or groups associated with the medium-sized subjects.
*Seseli gummiferum. (Silvery Seseli).—An umbelliferous plant with elegantly-divided leaves of a peculiarly pleasing glaucous or almost silvery tone. I am not sure whether this plant is perennial or not, and it is not hardy on cold soils, having perished during several of our most severe winters, but it is so unique in its way that some persons might like to grow it, and if so the best position is on dry and sunny banks, or raised beds or borders. It is one of the few subjects that are at once fern-like and silvery, and if plentiful enough might be used to form charming edgings. It is not difficult to raise from seed, which should be sown soon after being gathered. As it is liable to perish in winter, perhaps the best way to deal with it would be to put it out annually at the end of spring, raising it and keeping it in frames for this purpose; and to secure seeds a few plants might be left in 10 in. or 12 in. pots, so that the seed might be gathered under cover. Doubtless, however, continental raisers can supply it. S. Russia.
*Silphium integrifolium.—This composite has a rough, vigorous, rigid, slightly four-angled, grooved stem, from 2 ft. to 4 ft. high, and leaves from 3 ins. to 5 ins. long, all opposite, lanceolate-ovate, entire, tapering to a sharp point from a roundish heart-shaped and partly-clasping base, and covered with a roughish down. The flower-heads are of a greenish-yellow, on short stalks, in a close, forking corymb. A variety (S. læve) has the leaves and stem smooth, or nearly so. This and the following kinds are only suited for the rougher parts of the pleasure-ground, and by wood-walks, etc.; they will be seen to greatest advantage in rich and deep soil, but will grow in any kind. Division. N. America.
*Silphium laciniatum (Compass-plant).—A vigorous perennial with a stout, round stem, often upwards of 8 ft. in height. The leaves, which are collected chiefly about the base of the plant, are large, wrinkled, and deeply-divided into lance-shaped, pointed segments, and fringed with white hairs. The stem-leaves are few, much smaller, and opposite. Flowers of a fine yellow with a brownish centre, in large, few, solitary, short-stalked, horizontal or drooping heads, which have the peculiarity of facing to the east. Division. N. America.
*Silphium perfoliatum (Cup-plant).—A robust-growing North American perennial from 4 ft. to 8 ft. in height, with a square stem and broad, opposite, oval, lance-shaped, coarsely toothed leaves, 6 ins. to 15 ins. long, rough on both sides, the upper ones united at their bases; the lower ones abruptly narrowed into winged leaf-stalks, which are also united at their bases. Flower-heads about 2 ins. across, with a greenish-yellow disk and a yellow ray. Does best in a deep, free, well-drained, sandy soil, but will grow well when the ground is slightly moist, especially in warm, but not too shady, positions. Division.
*Silphium terebinthinaceum (Prairie-Dock).—A large kind with smooth slender stems from 4 ft. to 10 ft. high, panicled at the summit, and bearing many small heads of light yellow flowers. The leaves are ovate-oblong, thick and rough, especially beneath, and from 1 ft. to 2 ft. long, on slender stalks. A variety (pinnatifidum) has the leaves deeply cut or pinnatifid. This species is remarkable for its strong turpentine odour. Division. N. America.
*Silphium trifoliatum.—This species has a smooth, often glaucous, rather slender stem, from 4 ft. to 6 ft. high, branching above. Leaves lance-shaped, pointed, entire or scarcely serrate, short-stalked, in whorls of three or four, the uppermost ones opposite. Flower-heads yellow, more than 2 ins. across, on long stalks, and forming loose panicles. Division. N. America.
*Silybum marianum (Milk-thistle).—A very robust and vigorous-growing native biennial, 5 ft. or more in height, of strikingly handsome appearance, and well deserving to be associated with other large fine-foliaged plants. Its leaves are of very great size, variously cut and undulated, tipped and margined with scattered spines, and of a bright glistening green colour marbled and variegated with broad white veins. Easily raised from seed, and thrives in almost any kind of well-drained soil. Additional vigour and development may be thrown into the foliage by pinching off the flower-stems on their first appearance. If a few plants are raised in the garden and planted out in rough and somewhat bare places or banks, etc., this will soon establish itself permanently.
Silybum eburneum is a more tender species, very closely resembling the above, but with spines which appear as if made of ivory. It is also more constantly biennial, and in consequence its leaves are almost always in the rosette stage throughout the first year. It is somewhat tenderer than S. marianum. Algeria.
The Solanums.—This family, so wonderfully varied, affords numerous species that look graceful and imposing in leaf when in a young and free-growing state. In selecting examples from this great genus we must be careful, as our climate is a shade too cold for some of the kinds grown on the continent, and many of them are of too ragged an aspect to be tolerated in a tasteful garden. Half a dozen species or so are indispensable, but there is quite a crowd of narrow-leaved and ignoble ones which may well be passed over.
Most of these plants may be raised from seed, while they are also freely grown from cuttings, which struck in February will make good plants by May. All the kinds named are suitable for association with the larger-leaved plants, though they do not as a rule attain such height and vigorous development as those of the first rank, like the Ricinus. As a rule, temperate-house treatment in winter is required, and they should be planted out about the middle or end of May, in rich fight soil, a warm position, and perfect shelter. S. marginatum, planted in a very dwarf and young state, furnishes a most distinct and charming effect: it should be planted rather thinly, so that the leaves of one plant may not brush against those of another. If some very dwarf plants are used as a groundwork, so much the better; but the downy and silvery leaves of this plant are sure to please without this aid. It is very much better when thus grown than when permitted to assume the bush form.
Solanum betaceum.—A small tree from South
America, which in our climate attains a height of nearly 10 ft. if taken up in autumn and kept through the winter in a house. The stems are stout, smooth, and fleshy. The leaves, which resemble those of the Beet, are of an oval, pointed shape, and of a deep green colour, tinged with violet in the variety purpureum. The flowers are small, rose-colour, in pendent cyme-like clusters, and are succeeded by fruit of the shape and size of a fowl’s egg, which become of a fine deep scarlet colour during the winter. Some varieties have flowers tinged with purple and fruit striped with brown. May be placed to great advantage in groups in round beds with dwarfer plants or shrubs at the base, or with climbing plants ascending the stems, but is much better isolated on slopes, etc. It is a vigorous grower, and should have rich soil.
Solanum crinitipes.—A slow-growing woody species with undivided oval leaves somewhat more than a foot long: the young stems and flower-stalks being densely covered with chaffy hairs somewhat like those of a fern. This I have not seen thrive so well in England as the preceding kind, but it is well worthy of trial in full collections in the southern counties. S. America.
Solanum crinitum.—A vigorous-growing species from Guiana, 5 ft. or more in height, with stout stems, set with short strong spines and dense long hairs. It has very large, soft, hairy, spreading, roundish leaves, which in good soil attain a length of 2½ ft.: the upper surface of a tender green colour with violet veinings set with spines, as are also the leaf-stalks; the under side whitish and more thickly furnished with spines. The hairs and bark on the upper portion of each petiole are of a purplish hue, and, on the lower part, of a light pale green, by which the plant may be readily recognised. The flowers are very large and white. Berries roundish, villose, and twice or thrice as large as a cherry. This I have seen attain a very remarkable development in sheltered warm spots in the south of England. It is fine in medium-sized groups.
Solanum hyporhodium.—A fine branching kind from Venezuela, with a stout stem about 5 ft. high, and branches armed with short thinly-scattered spines. The leaves, which attain a length of nearly 2½ ft., are oval, with angular sinuated lobes, the upper surface being of a fine green colour with white veins, and the under side of a violet-red and downy. When young the hue of the leaves is exceedingly lively. The flowers are borne in almost lateral cymes and are of a rosy-white colour with yellow stamens. This plant is sometimes sold as S. discolor and S. purpureum, but is quite distinct from them.
Solanum Karstenii.—This, which is more commonly known as S. callicarpum, is a robust, slightly branching, arborescent shrub about 5 ft. high, covered with long hairs interspersed with spines and of a general variable greyish-violet hue. The leaves are oval, broad, angular, heart-shaped at the base, and 2 ft. or more in length. The flowers are large, of a fine delicate violet colour, and borne in crowded, almost one-sided clusters. This plant is best isolated, as when placed in close groups the leaves of the associated subjects are apt to tear it. Venezuela.
Solanum lanceolatum.—This is the best kind for blooming qualities. The foliage, which is somewhat fluffy and willow-like, possesses no marked character, but the mauve-coloured flowers are borne abundantly in clusters, each containing 20 or more blooms: the stamens, being of an orange colour, add to the effect. There are a dozen or more species that flower freely but have little beauty of leaf: among the best of these is S. Rantonnettii, which has very pretty dark-purple flowers, more than an inch across, with an orange centre. It forms a neat bush, and flowers freely in the southern counties, in warm sunny spots and on light soils. Mexico.
Solanum macranthum.—A fine species from Brazil, confessedly one of the best kinds in cultivation, and somewhat resembling Polymnia grandis. It grows nearly 7 ft. high in one year, with a stout, simple, spiny stem of a deep shining green with grayish spots, and sparsely armed with very strong shortish spines. The leaves are elegant and deeply cut, some of them over 2½ ft. long, falling gracefully earthwards, of a light green on the upper surface, with red veinings, the under side having a reddish hue. The flowers, seldom seen with us, are of a fine violet colour, and grow in corymbs. It will not attain its full character and large dimensions in cold places, and should therefore have as warm positions as possible. Increased by cuttings struck in February: they are fit to plant out in May.
Solanum marginatum.—A vigorous-growing, erect, branching and bushy species from Abyssinia, 3 ft., or more, in height. The leaves are somewhat oval, with a bluntly sinuated margin; the upper surface smooth, of a brilliant green with a white silvery border, and the under side covered with a white satiny down. The flowers are white, with orange stamens, pendulous, very numerous, in clusters. For the positions suited to this plant see the introductory remarks on the genus.
Solanum Quitoense.—A half-shrubby native of Peru and the neighbourhood of Quito, seldom growing higher than 3¼ ft. in cultivation. The stem is spineless, covered with a soft down, and of a delicate green colour suffused with violet, which exhibits iridescent changes. The leaves are broad, stalked, obcordate, with toothed angles, and of a fine green colour, with violet downy veins. Flowers rather large, white, tinged with lilac on the top when in bud, in short clusters. It requires a warm position and a warm season to bring out its best qualities.
Solanum robustum.—A Brazilian species with a vigorous much-branching stem more than 3 ft. high, and furnished with very sharp and strong spines and densely-set, long, reddish, viscous hairs. The leaves, which are very large, are of a rich brown colour on the upper surface and oval-elliptical in form, with 8 or 9 oval-acute lobes, the upper ones nearly triangular; and the midrib and principal veins, which are of a brown colour, are closely set with spines similar to those on the stem. The flowers are white, with orange stamens, and are borne in unilateral clusters. The berries are round, of a brown colour, and the size of a small cherry. As a foliage-plant this is a subject of considerable merit, and one of those most suitable for our climate. It requires a warm sunny aspect in a position which will be at the same time airy and sheltered from strong winds.
Solanum Sieglingii.—A large and handsome kind, which forms a small tree about 13 ft. high after some
years’ growth. The foliage is of a light-green colour, tinged here and there with rose, and sparsely armed with spines; the young unfolded leaves are slightly tinged with violet. Flowers numerous, small and white, appearing when the plant is two or three years old. A good kind which has been little tried in England. Venezuela.
Solanum Warscewiczii.—A very fine and ornamental kind, resembling S. macranthum, but with a lower and more thickset habit, and branching more at the base. The leaf-stalks also, and upper branches, are of a red colour, glandular, and scaly; and the flowers are white and small. The stem is armed with strong slightly recurved spines, and both the stems and the petioles of the leaves are covered with a very dense crop of short stiff brown hairs scarcely rising above the skin. This is one of the handsomest and best kinds we have.
Sonchus laciniatus.—A very graceful composite plant, from Madeira, with a stout stem, growing to a height of more than 5 ft., and large deeply-cut leaves with linear-lance-shaped segments. Flower-heads yellow. When grouped on grass-plats, or open spaces in pleasure-grounds, the fine foliage of this plant is seen to very great advantage; but being so slender and delicate the plants must be placed where they may be seen. It should be planted out at the end of May, and thrives best in rich, substantial soil, in a warm sunny position. Very numerous varieties, with the leaves variously divided and of various shades of green, have been advertised in catalogues under specific names, as S. lyratus, S. gummiferus, etc., etc. Many of these are quite as charming as the type, and are well adapted for the same uses.
*Sorghum halepense.—A handsome hardy grass from S. Europe, N. Africa, and Syria, with an erect stem about 3½ ft. high, and broad flat leaves more than 1 ft. long, chiefly collected round the base of the plant. It is most attractive when in flower in the end of summer, the inflorescence consisting of a dense panicle of purplish awned flowers. Suitable for isolation, groups, or borders.
Sparmannia africana.—A beautiful flowering stove-shrub from 3 ft. to 12 ft. high, very much resembling a Malva in habit, with long-stalked, heart-shaped, lobed leaves, clothed with soft down, and numerous pretty white flowers produced in stalked umbels. It thrives freely in the open air in the south of England, from the end of May to October, if planted in rich light soil and in warm positions. Cape of Good Hope.
*Spiræa Aruncus.—This is a remarkably handsome and effective plant, from 3½ ft. to 5 ft. high, with elegantly-divided leaves, which bear some resemblance to the fronds of certain ferns. The flowers are white, and are disposed above the foliage in graceful, airy plumes. A cool, peaty soil, and a slightly-shaded position, are best suited for this plant, and it may be placed with advantage on slopes with a north aspect, the banks of streams or pieces of water, in glades, and thinly-planted shrubberies, etc. Division. Siberia.
*Spiræa Filipendula.—A hardy, native perennial, with elegant foliage and handsome flowers. The leaves are mostly radical, very finely cut, and form a loosely-spreading rosette. The flower-stems rise to a height of 1½ ft. to 2 ft., and are terminated by dense panicles of rosy-white flowers. There is a fine variety with double flowers. This plant is included here only in consequence of the resemblance of its leaves to a pinnate-leaved fern. By pinching off the flowers it may be used with good effect as a green, fern-like edging plant, and it is pretty in borders. Division in winter or spring.
*Spiræa (Hoteia) japonica.—A handsome, herbaceous perennial, forming rich tufts of dark shining green much-divided leaves, which have a somewhat fern-like appearance. These tufts are usually from a foot to 16 ins. high. The flowers are very freely produced in graceful panicles, of which the bracts, little flower-stems, and all the ramifications are, like the flowers, white. It is particularly fond of a sandy peat, or very sandy loam, a sheltered position, and moist soil. Multiplied by division of the tufts in spring or the end of summer. Japan.
*Spiræa Lindleyana.—A graceful shrub, with erect stems, from 6½ ft. to nearly 10 ft. high, and large compound leaves, with finely-toothed leaflets. Flowers late in summer, white, in very large and handsome terminal panicles. This well-known plant is second to none for its grace and distinctness, both of foliage and flower. It is a native of the Himalayas, and easily procured in our nurseries; it should receive far more attention than the majority of our shrubs do, and should be employed both in a young and fully-grown state in and near the flower-garden. Few things, tender or hardy, known in our gardens, afford a better effect than may be obtained from this.
It is probably one of those plants which would look exceedingly effective if trained to a single stem and cut down every year, as recommended for the Ailantus and the Paulownia; but I have had no experience of it in this way, and its natural habit is sufficiently graceful.
Stadmannia Jonghei.—A tall and stately foliage-plant from Australia, where it attains the dimensions of a small tree, with dark shining green pinnate leaves; the divisions oblong-pointed, with serrated margins, and of a paler colour underneath. Bears the open air of the southern counties in summer well, if placed in sunny and sheltered spots.
*Statice latifolia.—A hardy and very ornamental herbaceous perennial from Russia, with broad leaves, which form a rosette or tuft more or less spreading. The flower-stem is more than 2 ft. high, and very much branched; the branches commencing at from 4 ins. to 8 ins. above the ground, and forming a large and exceedingly handsome panicle of flowers of a light-blue colour, tinged with the greyish hue of the numerous membranous bracts and thin dry calyces. A well-drained, sandy soil, in an open sunny position, is the best for this plant, which, however, grows in any ordinary garden-soil, and is admirably adapted for naturalisation or grouping with the acanthuses, tritomas, etc., the effect of the inflorescence being very remarkable.
*Stipa pennata (Feather-grass).—This plant, which at other times is hardly to be distinguished from a strong, stiff tuft of common grass, presents, in May and June, a very different appearance, the tuft being then surmounted by numerous flower-stems, nearly 2 ft. high, gracefully arching, and densely covered, for a considerable part of their upper extremity, with long, twisted, feathery awns. It loves a deep, sandy loam, and may be used with fair effect in groups of small plants, or isolated; but its flowers continue too short a time in bloom to make it very valuable away from borders.
*Struthiopteris germanica.—One of the most elegant hardy ferns, with fronds resembling ostrich-plumes in shape, nearly 3 ft. long, and arranged in a somewhat erect, vase-like rosette. It is particularly suited for the embellishment of the slopes of pleasure-grounds, cascades, grottoes, and rough rockwork, the margins of streams and pieces of water, and will thrive in moist and deep sandy soil, either in the full sunshine or in the shade. S. pennsylvanica very closely resembles S. germanica, the chief point of difference being the narrowness of the fertile fronds of the former species. Both kinds will prove very effective in adding beauty of form to a garden, and should by no means be confined to the fernery proper. Central Europe.
*Tamarix.—These very elegant hardy shrubs may be used with excellent effect in the flower-garden and pleasure-ground, though they are at present seldom employed in these places. T. gallica or anglica is found apparently wild in several parts of the south of England, and other kinds, such as germanica, parviflora, tetrandra, spectabilis, and indica, are also in cultivation. In the neighbourhood of Paris T. indica thrives very freely, and forms beautiful hedges, but is cut down by frost during some winters. It would probably do better in the south of England. The plants have minute leaves and very elegantly-panicled branches, which gives them a feathery effect, somewhat like that of the most graceful conifers, and, if possible, more elegant: the roseate panicles of small flowers are also very pretty. A finer effect would be obtained from these shrubs by isolating them on the grass than in any other way.
*Tanacetum vulgare var. crispum.—A very elegant variety of the common tansy, much dwarfer in stature, and with smaller emerald-green leaves, which are very elegantly cut, and have a crisped or frizzled appearance. It is quite hardy, and forms an effective ornament on the margins of shrubberies, near rockwork, etc. It does best fully exposed, and probably the only way in which it can be benefited after planting—in deep and rather moist soil it does best, but will grow “anywhere”—is by thinning out the shoots in spring, so that each remaining one shall have free room to suspend its exquisite leaves; thinned thus, it looks much better than when the stems are crowded, and of course, if it is done in time, they individually attain more strength and dignity. The flowers should be pinched off before they open. Britain.
Thalia dealbata.—This is one of the finest aquatic plants which we can employ in the embellishment of pieces of water, streams, etc. In a warm and sheltered position, and on a substantial and rich bottom, it grows vigorously, sometimes attaining a height of 6 ft. The best mode of growing it is in pots or tubs pierced with holes, in a mixture of stiff peat and clayey soil, with a portion of river-mud and sand. In winter these pots or tubs may be submerged to a greater depth, and the plants be thus effectually protected. It would not attain the above size out of doors except in warm places in the southern counties, in which it might be planted out directly without taking the precautions above described. It is generally grown in the stove in this country. N. America.
*Thalictrum minus.—One of the most elegant-leaved of our native plants, forming compact, roundish bushes, from a foot to 18 ins. high, very symmetrical, and of a slightly glaucous hue. It may be grown in any soil, and requires only one little attention, namely, to pinch off the slender flower-stems that appear in May and June. Not alone in its aspect, as a little bushy tuft, does it resemble the “Maidenhair Fern,” as Adiantum cuneatum is often called, but the leaves are almost pretty enough to pass, when mingled with flowers, for those of the fern; they are also stiffer and more lasting than fern-leaves, and are well suited for mingling with vases of flowers, etc. There are probably several “forms” or varieties of this plant. It would look very pretty isolated in large tufts as an edging, or in borders, or in groups of dwarf subjects. Easily increased by division.
*The Tritomas.—So hardy, so magnificent in colouring, and so fine in form are these plants, that we can no more dispense with their use in the garden where beauty of form as well as colour is to prevail, than we can with the noble Pampas grass. They are more conspicuously beautiful, when other things begin to succumb before the gusts and heavy rains of autumn, than any plants which flower in the bright days of midsummer. It is not alone as component parts of large ribbon-borders and in such positions that these grand plants are useful, but in almost any part of the garden. Springing up as a bold, close group on the green turf, and away from brilliant surroundings, they are more effective than when associated with bedding plants; and of course many such spots may be found for them near the margins of the shrubberies in most pleasure-grounds. It is in an isolated group, flaming up amid the verdure of trees and shrubs and grass, that their dignified aspect and brilliant colour are seen to best advantage. However, tastefully disposed in the flower-garden, they will prove generally useful, and particularly for association with the finer autumn-flowering herbaceous plants. A most satisfactory result may be produced by associating the Tritomas with the Pampas grass and the two Arundos, the large Statice latifolia, and the strong and beautiful autumn-flowering Anemone japonica alba, which is peculiarly suited for association with hardy herbaceous plants of fine habit, and should be in every garden where a hardy flower is valued.
The Tritomas are not fastidious as to soil, and with a little preparation of the ground may be grown almost anywhere. They thrive with extraordinary vigour and freedom where the soil is very sandy as well as rich and deep, and are readily multiplied by division.
As every garden should be embellished by well-developed specimens or groups of these fine plants, those who have very poor and thin, or pure clay soils, would do well to excavate the ground to the depth of 2 ft. or 3 ft., and fill in with good rich loam. When the soil is deep, no watering will be required.
*Tritoma Burchelli.—This kind is distinguished by the lighter green of its leaves, by its black-spotted flower-stem, and especially by the colour of its flowers, which are crimson at the base, passing into carmine in the middle, and pale-yellow or greenish at the tips. There is a variety which has the leaves variegated or striped with white, but it is somewhat tender and rare.
*Tritoma glauca.—A dwarfer kind than T. Uvaria, with leaves of a sea-green colour, and very large spikes of scarlet-and-yellow flowers, which, when in bud, are hidden by long, sea-green bracts, streaked and rayed with white. There is a scarce variety with recurved leaves (T. g. recurvata), which has somewhat of the habit of a Bromelia. S. Africa.
*Tritoma præcox.—A recently-introduced, handsome, hardy perennial, with very much the habit of T. Uvaria. The flower-stem grows from 20 ins. to 2 ft. high, and the flowers, which are produced about the middle of May, are of a bright-red colour when exposed to the full sun, and of a bright-yellow when grown in the shade. The leaves are fully 2 ft. long, sharply keeled, and with toothed edges. S. Africa.
*Tritoma Uvaria.—A very ornamental and well-known kind from S. Africa, forming thick tufts of linear, erect leaves. It is a vigorous grower, and small specimens have been known in three years to form tufts from 3 ft. to 4 ft. through, bearing from 50 to 100 flower-spikes. The flowering-stems are about 3¼ ft. in height, and the flowers are borne in dense conical clusters at the top. The upper part of the cluster, containing the young flowers, is of a coral-red colour, the lower part yellow, all the flowers gradually changing to this colour. Other varieties in cultivation are—T. U. grandis or grandiflora, which is much taller than the preceding kind, with stouter stems and larger flower-spikes; T. U. Rooperi, which only differs from the type in being somewhat dwarfer in habit and having softish or flaccid leaves, frequently falling forward; it also flowers later; and T. U. Lindleyana, which has erect, very rigid leaves, and more deeply-coloured flowers than the type.
Tupidanthus calyptratus.—A noble subtropical plant from Bengal, standing in the open air from the beginning of June till October without the slightest injury. The leaves are large, deeply-divided, and of a dark shining green colour. It requires stove treatment in winter and spring, and is suitable for beds or planting singly.
*Typha latifolia (Reed-Mace).—A native aquatic plant, growing in tufts of 2-rowed flat leaves from 1½ ft. to 2 ft. long, and 1 in. or 1½ in. wide. From the centre of each tuft springs a stem 6 ft. or 7 ft. high, which in the flowering season is terminated by a close cylindrical spike 9 ins. long, and of a dark-olive colour, changing to a brownish-black as it ripens. This is one of the most striking and ornamental of our British water-plants, and may be used with excellent effect grouped with such subjects as the Great Water-Dock.
*Typha angustifolia resembles the preceding species in all respects except in the size of its leaves and spike. The leaves are about ½ in. wide and the spike about ½ in. in diameter, and something shorter than that of T. latifolia. Of the two it is perhaps the more graceful in aspect.
Uhdea bipinnatifida.—This is one of the most useful plants in its class, producing a rich mass of handsome leaves, with somewhat the aspect of those of the great cow-parsnips, but of a more refined type. The foliage has a slightly silvery tone, and the plant continues to grow fresh and vigorously till late in autumn. It is well suited for forming rich masses of foliage, not so tall, however, as those formed by such things as Ricinus or Ferdinanda. It is freely propagated by cuttings taken from old plants kept in a cool stove, greenhouse, or pit during the winter months, and placed in heat to afford cuttings freely in early spring. Under ordinary cutting treatment on hotbeds or in a moist warm propagating house, it grows as freely as could be desired, and may be planted out at the end of May or the beginning of June. Mexico.
Uhdea pyramidata.—This kind has been less cultivated in England than the preceding, from which it is distinct in appearance. It is of a lighter and fresher green, and inclined to grow larger in habit, having more of the aspect of a Malva in foliage. Useful for the same purposes as the preceding kind, but not so valuable.
*Veratrum album (White Hellebore).—A handsome, erect perennial of pyramidal habit, 3½ ft. to 5 ft. high, with curiously plaited leaves 1 ft. long and 6 ins. to 8 ins. broad, regularly alternating on the stem and overlapping each other at the base. The flowers, of a yellowish-white colour, are borne in numerous dense spikes on the top of the stem, forming a large panicle. The leaves being handsome, it is worth a place in full collections of fine-foliaged hardy herbaceous plants, and would look to best advantage in small groups in the rougher parts of the pleasure-ground and by wood-walks. Thrives best in peaty soil, and is best multiplied by division, as the seed is very slow and capricious in germinating, sometimes not starting until the second year, and it is some years before the seedlings are strong enough to flower. The root of this plant is exceedingly poisonous. V. nigrum differs from V. album, in having more slender stems, narrower leaves, and blackish-purple flowers. V. viridiflorum resembles V. album in every respect, except that its flowers are of a lively green colour. France.
*Verbascum Chaixii.—Most of us know how very distinct and imposing are the larger Verbascums, and those who have attempted their culture must soon have found out what far-seeding things they are. Of a biennial character, their culture is most unsatisfactory: they either migrate into the adjoining shrubbery or disappear altogether. The possession of a fine perennial species must therefore be a desideratum, and such a plant will be found in Verbascum Chaixii. This is fine in leaf and stature, and produces abundance of flowers. The lower leaves grow 18 ins. or 20 ins. long, and the plant when in flower reaches a height of 7 ft. or 8 ft., or even more when in good soil. It is a truly distinct subject, and may, it is to be hoped, ere long be found common in our gardens and nurseries. Like the preceding, but grown under the name V. vernale, is a kind I saw in the Jardin des Plantes at Paris, and introduced into cultivation in England; but it is as yet scarce.
Verbesina gigantea.—An ornamental shrub from Jamaica, about 6½ ft. high, forming, when young, a very pleasing subject for decorative purposes, its round green stems being covered with large, winged, pinnate leaves of a glistening delicate-green colour, and very elegant outline. Suitable for rich beds or groups; and should be planted out at the end of May or early in June. V. pinnatifida is a rough, half-shrubby species with a winged stem and woolly oval leaves with lobed or toothed margins; they are larger than those of the preceding species, growing 3 ft. long by 14 ins. broad in the first year. Both species require hothouse treatment in winter, and are multiplied by cuttings in early spring. Young plants are to be preferred for effect, and will be much the better for as warm and sheltered a position and as rich and light a soil as can be conveniently given them.
Wigandia macrophylla (caracasana).—This noble plant, a native of the mountainous regions of New Granada, is, from the nobility of its port and the magnificence of its leaves, entitled to hold a place among the finest plants of our gardens. Under the climate of London it has made leaves which have surprised all beholders, as well by their size as by their strong and remarkable veining and texture. It will be found to succeed very well in the midland and southern counties of England, though too much care cannot be taken to secure for it a warm sheltered position, free good soil, and perfect drainage. It may be used with superb effect either in a mass or as a single plant. It is frequently propagated by cuttings of the roots, and grown in a moist and genial temperature through the spring months, keeping it near the light so as to preserve it in a dwarf and well-clothed condition; and, like all the other plants in this class, it should be very carefully hardened off previous to planting out at the end of May. It is, however, much better raised from cuttings of the shoots, if these are to be had. It may also be raised from seed. W. macrophylla has the stems covered with short stinging hairs, and bearing brownish viscid drops, which adhere to the hand like oil when the stem is touched.
W. Vigieri is another fine kind of quick and vigorous growth, and remarkable habit. In the beginning of September, 1867, I measured a specimen with leaves 3 ft. 9 ins. long, including the leaf-stalk, and 22 ins. across; the stem, nearly 7 ft. high and 3 ins. in diameter, bearing a column of such leaves. It is known at a glance from the popular and older W. macrophylla, by the leaves and the stems being covered in a much greater degree with glossy,
slender, stinging bodies. These are so thickly produced as to give the stems a glistening appearance. W. urens is another species often planted, but decidedly inferior to either of the foregoing, except in power of stinging, in which way it is not likely to be surpassed.
Woodwardia.—This noble genus of ferns is of great and peculiar use in the subtropical garden, where their broad and beautifully arching fronds make very effective objects, especially when planted in a vase, on the top of a stump, or small mound, a little above the level of the eye. The principal species are: W. orientalis, W. radicans, W. japonica, W. virginica, and W. areolata. Of these W. orientalis and W. areolata are hardy, and the others nearly so. They may be used as effectively in the conservatory in winter as in the open garden in summer.
Xanthoso sagittæfolium.—A Brazilian plant with very much the habit and appearance of Caladium esculentum, but not so valuable, having arrow-shaped leaves, of a dark-green colour, supported on rather slender stalks. Another equally handsome and large species is X. violaceum, the leaves and leaf-stalks of which are suffused with a delicate violet hue, slightly inclining to hoariness. Positions and treatment similar to those recommended for Caladium esculentum. They should only be tried in the warmer parts of the country, and not be placed in the open air till the beginning of June.
Yuccas.—Among all the hardy plants ever introduced into this country, none surpass for our present purpose the various kinds of Yucca, or “Adam’s Needle,” as it is commonly called. There are several species hardy and well suited for flower-garden purposes, and, more advantageous still, distinct from each other. The effect afforded by them, when well developed, is equal to that of any hothouse plant that we can venture in the open air for the summer, while they are green and ornamental at all seasons. They may be used in any style of garden, may be grouped together on rustic mounds, or in any other way the taste of the planter may direct. If we had but this family alone, our efforts to produce an agreeable effect with hardy plants could not be fruitless. The free-flowering kinds, filamentosa and flaccida, may be associated with any of our nobler autumn flowering plants, from the Gladiolus to the great Statice latifolia. The species that do not flower so often, like pendula and gloriosa, are simply magnificent as regards their effect when grown in the full sun and planted in good soil; and I need not say bold and handsome groups may be formed by devoting isolated beds to Yuccas alone. They are mostly easy to increase by division of the stem and rhizome; and should in all cases be planted well and singly, beginning with healthy young plants, so as to secure perfectly developed specimens.
Yucca aloïfolia.—A fine and distinct species, with a stem when fully developed as thick as a man’s arm, and rising to a height of from 6 ft. to 18 ft. Leaves numerous, rigidly ascending, dark-green, with a slight glaucous bloom, 18 to 21 inches long and broad at the middle, with the horny margin rolled in for 2 ins. or 3 ins. below the point, and finely toothed in the remaining portion. Flowers almost pure white, in a vast pyramidal panicle. This plant is hardy, but the fact is not generally known. It should be tried on well-drained slopes in good sandy loam. There are some varieties, of which T. a. quadricolor and T. a. versicolor have the leaves variously edged with green, yellow, and red. These fine variegated varieties are also very hardy, but as they are as yet far from common, it will be best to utilise them in the greenhouse or conservatory, or place them in the open air during summer. They look very pretty isolated on the grass, the pots plunged to the rim. S. America and W. Indies.
*Yucca angustifolia.—A somewhat dwarf species, the whole plant, when in flower, not being more than 2 or 3 ft. high. The leaves are thick and rigid in texture, from 15 ins. to 18 ins. long and about ¼ in. broad, of a pale sea-green colour, with numerous white filaments at the edges. The inflorescence is a simple raceme of white flowers slightly tinged with yellow. Till more plentiful this had better be grown in warm borders, in well-drained sandy loam. N. America.
*Yucca canaliculata.—The leaves of this species are entire, i.e. neither toothed nor filamentous at the margin, and form a dense rosette on a stem which rises 1 or 2 ft above the ground. Each leaf is from 20 ins. to 24 ins. long, and 2 ins. to 2¼ ins. broad at the middle, very strong and rigid, and deeply concave on the face. The flowers are of a creamy white, in a large panicle 4 ft. to 5 ft. high. Fine for isolation or groups. Till more plentiful should be encouraged in favourable positions and on warm soils. Mexico.
*Yucca filamentosa.—A very common and well-known species, with a much-branched panicle, 4 ft. to 6 ft. high, and apple-green leaves, from 15 ins. to 21 ins. long by 1½ ins. to 2 ins. broad at the middle, fringed at the edges with grey filaments 2 or 3 ins. long: the outer leaves spreading, the central ones erect or slightly recurved. This species varies very much when raised from seed: one variety (concava) has short, strong, broad leaves, with the face more concave than in the type; another variety (maxima) has leaves nearly 2 ft. long by 2½ ins. broad, with a panicle 7 ft. to 8 ft. in height. This species flowers with much vigour and beauty, and is well worth cultivating in every garden; not only in the flower-garden or pleasure-ground, but also on the rough rockwork, or any spot requiring a distinct type of hardy vegetation: and so is its fine though delicate variegated variety. All the varieties thrive best and flower most abundantly in peaty or fine sandy soil. N. America.
*Yucca flaccida.—A stemless species, somewhat resembling Y. filamentosa, but smaller, with a downy branching panicle 3 ft. to 4 ft. high. Foliage in close rosettes of leaves, 1½ ft. to 2 ft. long, by about 1½ in. broad at the middle, often fringed with filaments on the edges: the young ones nearly erect, the old ones abruptly reflexed at the middle, almost appearing as if broken. This gives such an irregular aspect to the tufts that it at once distinguishes this kind from any of the varieties of Y. filamentosa. It also flowers more regularly and abundantly than its relative, and is exceedingly well suited for groups of the finer hardy plants, for borders, or for being planted in large isolated tufts. N. America.
*Yucca glaucescens.—A very free-flowering kind, with a panicle 3 ft. to 4 ft. high, the branches of which are short and very downy. Leaves sea-green, about eighteen inches long, with a few filaments on the margins. The flowers are of a greenish-yellow colour, and when in bud are tinged with pink, which tends to give the whole inflorescence a peculiarly pleasing tone. A very useful and ornamental sort—fine for groups, borders, isolation, or placing among low shrubs. N. America.
*Yucca gloriosa.—A species of large and imposing proportions, with a distinct habit and somewhat rigid aspect. Flower-stem over 7 ft high, much-branched, and bearing an immense pyramidal panicle, of large, almost pure white flowers. Leaves numerous, stiff, and pointed. One of the noblest plants in our gardens, and suitable for use in almost any position. It varies very much when grown from seed—a good recommendation, as the greater variety of fine form we have the better. The chief varieties in cultivation are Y. g. longifolia, plicata, maculata, glaucescens, and minor. The soil for this plant should be a rich deep loam. N. America.
*Yucca pendula.—The best species perhaps, considering its graceful and noble habit, which is simply invaluable in every garden. It grows about 6½ ft. high, the leaves being at first erect and of a sea-green colour, afterwards becoming reflexed and changing to a deep green. Old and well-established plants of it standing alone on the grass are pictures of grace and symmetry, from the lower leaves which sweep the ground to the central ones that point up as straight as a needle. It is amusing to think of people putting tender plants in the open air, and running with sheets to protect them from the cold and rain of early summer and autumn, while perhaps not a good specimen of this fine thing is to be seen in the place. There is no plant more suited for planting between and associating with flower-beds. N. America.
*Yucca rupicola.—A species somewhat resembling Y. aloïfolia, with a stem from 4 ft. to 7 ft. high, and pale-green leaves 18 ins. to 20 ins. long, by 1 in. broad at the middle, almost erect and frequently twisted, the horny margin being broader and the teeth more distinct than in Y. aloïfolia. This is not much in cultivation as yet, and will probably be difficult to obtain for some time to come. N. America.
*Yucca Treculeana.—This species is one of the most remarkable of the noble genus to which it belongs, from its habit, and especially from the dimensions to which its foliage attains. Like many plants of its family,
young specimens differ considerably from those which have reached maturity. Thus, while the former have their leaves bent, generally inflected, the full-grown plants exhibit them erect, rigid, very long, and very straight. The stem of this plant is stout, about 10 ins. in diameter, furnished on all sides with leaves about 4 ft. long, straight, thick, deeply channeled, acuminate for a considerable length, and ending in a stiff, very sharp point, very finely toothed on the edges, which are of a brownish red and scarious. The flower-stalk is very stout, about 4 ft. long, much branched; the branches erect, from 1 ft. to 1 ft. 8 ins. long, bearing throughout their entire length flowers with long and narrow petals of a yellowish white, shining, and, as it were, glazed. It is a hardy and very vigorous plant. It is not rare to see on the Continent specimens of more than 6½ ft. in diameter. Fine for banks and knolls, placed singly, or for the boldest groups. It comes from Texas.
Zea Mays.—Were our climate a little warmer, we should find this noble grass one of the most ornamental, as well as useful, of our plants. But in countries where it is grown for food they would no more think of honouring it with a place in the garden than we should of planting the artichoke in our flower-beds, though far worse things are done every day. In this country, however, where maize is not to be seen as a field crop, a tuft of its tropical-looking blades has a good effect among the “subtropical plants.” Of course it should only be tried in warm districts, and it should always have sunny and sheltered positions and rich soil. In light warm soils, deep, and with a free bottom, it generally thrives very well, if a foot or so of rich and rotten manure is placed beneath its roots. In some seasons it would here and there ripen seeds, and in all cases one could gather a few heads of “green corn.” In warmer countries it is always best to sow maize in the open ground as soon as the frost permits; but in England it is better to raise it on a gentle hotbed in April, although occasionally it will succeed if sown out of doors. Gradually harden off the plants before they have made more than three or four little leaves, keeping them in a cool frame very near the glass, so as to keep them sturdy, and finally exposing them in the same position by taking the lights quite off. This course is perhaps the more desirable in the case of the variegated maize. In neither case should the plants be drawn up long in heat, as, if so, they will not thrive so well. The first few leaves the variegated kind makes are green, but they soon begin to manifest that striping which makes it as attractive as any variegated stove-plant we grow. Cuzko and Caragua are the largest and finest of the green varieties, and gracillima the smallest and most graceful of all the varieties of maize. They should be planted out about the middle of May.
The variegated or Japanese maize is a very remarkable and handsome variety, found by Mr. Hogg in Japan—that great country for variegated plants. Its beautiful variegation is reproduced true from seed, and it is almost an indispensable plant in the flower-garden, not growing so vigorously as the green kinds. It is particularly useful for intermingling with arrangements of ordinary bedding-plants, for vases, the outer margins of beds of subtropical plants, and like positions, where its variegation may be well seen, and where its graceful leaves will prove effective among subjects of dumpy habit. It should in all cases have light, rich, warm soil. It has a habit of breaking into shoots rather freely near the base of the central stem; and where it grows very freely, this should recommend it for planting in an isolated manner, or in groups of three or five, on the turf.
PART III.
SELECTIONS OF PLANTS FOR VARIOUS PURPOSES IN THE SUBTROPICAL GARDEN.
SUBTROPICAL GARDENING.
SELECTIONS OF PLANTS FOR VARIOUS PURPOSES.
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A Selection of the very finest and most distinct Subtropical Plants, both hardy and tender, suited for use in the climate of Britain.
A Selection of hardy perennials affording the finest effects in the Subtropical Garden.
A Selection of the finest tender Subtropical Plants that will succeed in our climate in summer.
A Selection of hardy Plants suited for isolation on the turf of the Flower-garden and Pleasure-ground.
| Acanthus latifolius |
| “longifolius |
| “mollis |
| “spinosissimus |
| “spinosus |
| Aralia canescens |
| “japonica |
| “spinosa |
| Astilbe rivularis |
| Arundo conspicua |
| “Donax |
| “ “ versicolor |
| Bambusa (in var.) |
| Bocconia cordata |
| Canna (hardier kinds) |
| Crambe cordifolia |
| Datisca cannabina |
| Dracæna indivisa (in the southern counties of England and Ireland) |
| Echinops ruthenicus |
| Elymus arenarius |
| “condensatus |
| Eryngium alpinum |
| Eryngium amethystinum |
| Ferula (any kinds) |
| Gynerium argenteum |
| Gunnera scabra |
| Helianthus orgyalis |
| Hemerocallis flava |
| “fulva and others |
| Heracleum eminens |
| Melianthus major |
| Molopospermum cicutarium |
| Morina longifolia |
| Osmunda regalis |
| Phormium tenax |
| Phytolacca decandra |
| Poa fertilis |
| Polygonum cuspidatum |
| Rheum Emodi (and other species and varieties) |
| Statice latifolia |
| Stipa pennata |
| Tritoma (any kind) |
| Yucca (any kind) |
A Selection of Plants useful for the open air in summer and for embellishing the conservatory in winter.
| Agave americana and vars. and other greenhouse species |
| Brexia madagascariensis |
| Chamærops excelsa |
| “Fortunei |
| “humilis |
| “Palmetto |
| Cordyline indivisa |
| Cycas revoluta |
| Dracæna australis |
| “cannæfolia |
| “Draco |
| “indivisa, and most of the other greenhouse kinds |
| Echeveria metallica |
| Ficus Chauvieri |
| “elastica |
| Jubæa spectabilis |
| Monstera deliciosa |
| Musa Ensete |
| Phormium tenax, and vars. |
| Phœnix dactylifera and other greenhouse species |
| Seaforthia elegans |
| Tupidanthus calyptratus |
| Yucca aloïfolia variegata, and vars. |
| Araucaria Bidwillii |
| “Cookii |
| “excelsa |
| “Rulei |
| Areca sapida |
| Caryota urens |
| “sobolifera |
| Corypha australis |
| Latania borbonica |
| Woodwardias |
| Half-hardy Palms, in var. |
A Selection of hardy Plants of vigorous habit and distinct character suited for planting in semi-wild places in pleasure-grounds or near wood-walks.
A Selection of kinds that will best withstand wind.
| Acacia Julibrissin |
| “lophantha |
| Acanthus (all the kinds) |
| Agave americana |
| Ailantus glandulosa |
| Aralia canescens |
| “japonica |
| “spinosa |
| Artemisia annua |
| “gracilis |
| Arundo conspicua |
| “Donax |
| Astilbe rivularis |
| Bambusa falcata |
| Canna (in variety) |
| Carlina acaulis |
| Crambe cordifolia |
| Cycas revoluta |
| Datisca cannabina |
| Dracæna indivisa |
| Echinops ruthenicus |
| Elymus arenarius |
| Eryngium (in variety) |
| Ferula (in variety) |
| Ficus elastica |
| Gynerium argenteum |
| Kochia scoparia |
| Meum athamanticum |
| Molopospermum cicutarium |
| Osmunda regalis |
| Panicum bulbosum |
| “virgatum |
| Phormium tenax |
| Phytolacca decandra |
| Poa fertilis |
| Polygonum cuspidatum |
| Rheum Emodi |
| Ricinus (in var.) |
| Tritoma (in var.) |
| Yucca (in var.) |
Subtropical Plants to raise from seed.
A Selection of annual and biennial Plants useful for the Subtropical garden.
[In this list annual plants grown for the beauty of the flower only are usually omitted.]
A selection of Flowers of various classes for association with Subtropical Plants.
[In this selection the dwarfer bedding-plants, etc., are omitted. Those selected are chiefly such as would bear more intimate association with fine-foliaged plants.]
List of Plants for forming mixtures and carpets beneath Subtropical Plants.
Trees and Shrubs of remarkable foliage suited for the Subtropical garden.
[The trees of this Selection will for the most part display much greater beauty and size of foliage if kept in a dwarf simple-stemmed condition by being cut down every year. Conifers are, of course, excepted.]
A Selection of Conifers for association with flower-garden Plants.
| Abies pygmæa |
| Araucaria imbricata |
| Arthrotaxus cupressoides (selaginoides) |
| “laxifolia |
| Biotia cupressiformis |
| “nana |
| “orientalis elegantissima |
| “orientalis variegata aurea |
| Cephalotaxus drupacea |
| Chamæcyparis sphæroidea variegata |
| “sphæroidea viridis |
| Cryptomeria elegans |
| Cupressus Lawsoniana |
| ““nana |
| ““variegata |
| ““erecta viridis |
| Cupressus nutkaensis |
| Dacrydium glaucum |
| Juniperus chinensis |
| ““variegata |
| “excelsa stricta |
| “fragrans |
| “hibernica |
| “tamariscifolia |
| ““variegata |
| “virginiana viridis pendula |
| Retinospora ericoides |
| “leptoclada |
| “lycopodiodes |
| “obtusa |
| ““aurea |
| ““compacta |
| “pisifera |
| ““alba variegata |
| ““aurea{237} |
| Taxus baccata elegantissima |
| ““variegata |
| Thuja aurea |
| Thuja gigantea |
| “nana |
| Thujopsis dolabrata |
| “lætevirens |
Conifers most suited for the surroundings of the flower-garden and pleasure-ground—kinds which, though noble and graceful as can be in many instances, are yet too large for anything but the framing of the picture, so to speak.
| Abies Douglasii |
| “Engelmanni |
| “Menziesii inverta |
| “Hookeriana |
| “orientalis |
| Cephalotaxus Fortunei |
| Juniperus virginiana glauca |
| ““thurifera |
| Libocedrus tetragona |
| Picea amabilis (magnifica) |
| “nobilis |
| “Nordmanniana |
| Picea Parsonsi |
| “Pinsapo |
| Pinus Cembra |
| “monticola |
| “insignis (where it thrives) |
| Sciadopitys verticillata |
| Thuja gigantea (true) |
| “plicata |
| “pyramidalis |
| Thujopsis Standishii |
| Sequoia gigantea |
| “sempervirens |
A Selection of Gourds.
Amongst the most beautiful are the Turk’s Cap varieties, such as Grand Mogul, Pasha of Egypt, Viceroy, Empress, Bishop’s Hat, etc; the Serpent Gourd, Gooseberry Gourd, Hercules’ Club, Gorilla, St. Aignan, Mons. Fould, Siphon, Half-moon, Giant’s Punchbowl, and the Mammoth, weighing from 170lb. to upwards of 200lb.; while amongst the miniature varieties the Fig, Cricket-ball, Thumb, Cherry, Striped Custard, Hen’s-egg, Pear, Bottle, Orange, Plover’s-egg, etc., are very pretty examples, and very serviceable for filling vases, etc. All these are well adapted to the climate of England, and there are many others equally suitable—a fact sufficiently indicated in one collection shown by Mr. W. Young, which consisted of 500 varieties, all English grown, the greater number of which were sown where grown, and came to maturity without the assistance of glass or any other protection. The ground being manured and dug one spit deep, the seed was sown the second week in May, and from first to last many of the plants had no water supplied to them through the season. Others, by way of experiment, had it in various quantities—the more water was given, the larger, the freer, and the better the produce. Sowing in a frame at the end of April, and exposing them to the free air during the day so as to prevent them being drawn, and then removing the frame altogether to harden them off before planting out, would be the best way to secure an early growth of gourds. Sowing in the open ground under hand-lights would also do, but not so well.
Ornamental Grasses.
| Agrostis nebulosa |
| Arundo conspicua |
| “Donax |
| ““versicolor |
| “festucoides |
| “Phragmites |
| Bambusa, in var. |
| Elymus arenarius |
| “ condensatus |
| Erianthus Ravennæ |
| Gynerium argenteum, and its vars. |
| Calamagrostis argentea |
| Poa aquatica |
| “fertilis |
| Saccharum ægyptiacum |
| “cylindricum |
| “Maddenii |
| Stipa pennata |
| Zea Mays |
| Andropogon argenteus |
| “bombycinus |
| “formosus |
| “Sorghum |
| “strictus |
| “squarrosus |
| Chloropsis Blanchardiana |
| Gymnothrix latifolia |
| Holcus saccharatus |
| Erianthus strictus |
| “violascens |
| Chloris myriostachys |
| Panicum bulbosum |
| “altissimum |
| “capillare |
| “miliaceum |
| “virgatum |
| “maximum |
| “palmifolium |
| “gongyloides |
| Panicum violaceum |
| Penicillaria spicata |
| Sorghum cernuum |
| “halepense |
| “melanocarpum |
| “nankinense |
| “tataricum |
| Tripsacum monostachyum |
| “dactyloides |
| Milium nigricans |
| “multiflorum |
| “effusum |
| Bromus brizopyroides |
| Briza gracilis |
| “geniculata |
| “maxima |
| “rufiberbis |
| Hordeum jubatum |
| Pennisetum longistylum |
| Piptatherum multiflorum |
| Agrostis spica-venti |
| Setaria germanica |
| Stipa capillata |
| Chascolytrum erectum |
| Leptochloa gracilis |
| Agrostis Steveni |
| Echinochloa Zenkowski |
| Paspalum elegans |
List of Ferns that may be grown with advantage away from the fernery proper.
[Even should any of these thrive better in shade, it is usually easy to secure this for them in groups by wood-walks.]
| Adiantum pedatum |
| Asplenium Filix-fœmina and vars. |
| Dennstœdtia punctilobula |
| Diplazium thelypteroides |
| Lastrea Filix-mas and vars. |
| “Goldieana |
| ““ assurgens intermedia |
| “marginalis |
| “noveboracensis |
| “atrata |
| “erythrosora |
| “opaca |
| “Standishii |
| Lomaria magellanica, in warm shady places |
| Onoclea sensibilis |
| Osmunda cinnamomea |
| “Claytoniana |
| “gracilis |
| “regalis |
| Osmunda regalis cristata |
| “spectabilis |
| Polypodium hexagonopterum |
| Polypodium Phegopteris |
| Polystichum acrostichoides |
| “aculeatum |
| “angulare |
| “vestitum venustum |
| Pteris aquilina |
| Scolopendrium vulgare and vars. |
| Struthiopteris germanica |
| “pennsylvanica |
| Woodwardia areolata |
| “aspera |
| “japonica |
| “orientalis |
| “radicans |
| Cyrtomium caryotideum |
| “falcatum |
List of hardy aquatics and bog-plants of bold and distinct habit suitable for grouping on the margins of lakes, etc.
| Nuphar lutea |
| “advena |
| “pumila |
| Nymphæa alba |
| “odorata |
| Menyanthes trifoliata |
| Equisetum Telmateia |
| Rumex Hydrolapathum |
| Typha angustifolia |
| “latifolia |
| Carex pendula |
| “paniculata |
| “Pseudocyperus |
| Scirpus lacustris |
| Butomus umbellatus |
| Poa aquatica |
| Arundo Phragmites |
| Cyperus longus |
| Cladium Mariscus |
| Pontederia cordata |
| Acorus Calamus |
| Iris Pseudacorus |
| Alisma Plantago |
| Orontium aquaticum |
| Lysimachia thyrsiflora |
| Lythrum Salicaria |
| Epilobium hirsutum |
| Calla æthiopica |
| “palustris |
| Hippuris vulgaris |
THE END.
LONDON: PRINTED BY WILLIAM CLOWES AND SONS, STAMFORD STREET
AND CHARING CROSS.