Ixia foliis linearibus, medio costatis, gramineis; scapus biflorus, filiformis; corollis sub-campanulatis, profunde coccineis.
Ixia with linear leaves ribbed in the middle and grassy; flower-stem two-flowered and thread-shaped; blossoms rather bell-shaped and of a deep crimson.
REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.
1. The Empalement.
2. A Flower cut open.
3. The Pointal, one of the tips magnified.
Although this species is not scarce, yet, from the general method of treating it, that is, by giving it no more heat than has been found necessary for the generality of Cape Ixias, few have seen its blossoms, though they possess the roots. To ensure their flowering, as soon as the bulbs are well rooted, which will be about January, if planted in October; they may be then put into the heat of a melon or cucumber frame, or taken into the hothouse, where they will flower about the latter end of May. This Ixia was first introduced, from Holland, about the year 1778, under the name of Ixia Kermosina speciosa; and, under that title, is to be found, in most collections; wherefore, considering it a distinct species, having drawings of two varieties, we have continued the specific name of speciosa. Our drawing was made at the Hammersmith nursery, in May 1799.[Pg 172]
