Most of the species of this genus of plants have hitherto been considered of little value in our collections, as few of them have woody stems, and from that character have a weedy appearance. This plant however is an exception, and is well worthy a place in collections where ornament only, not variety, is studied. It grows to the height of three feet, flowers in the month of August, is easily increased from cuttings, and may be kept in the hot-house, out of the bark-bed. The Justicia coccinea and this plant approach in the appearance of their flowers and habit; but the leaves differ much as well as many other minuter parts. It is a native of the East Indies, and was introduced about the year 1794. Our figure was taken from a plant in the Collection of G. Hibbert, Esq. Clapham Common.[Pg 51]
PLATE CCCXIV.
ITEA SPINOSA.
Thorny Itea.
CLASS V. ORDER I.
PENTANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Five Chives. One Pointal.
GENERIC CHARACTER.
Calyx. Perianthium monophyllum, quinquefidum, erectum, acuminatum, minimum, persistens, laciniis acutis, coloratis.