But the most singular trait in the plant is its tardy and protracted mode of flowering. It has already shown flowers, which it will not expand until next July: they are scarce half the size they will then be, and have upon the tip of the large calyptra one of a far smaller size, but similar in shape, and which will soon fall off, as will also the large one, a little previous to the expansion of the stamina next July.
It requires a great deal of root-room, and rich earth; is a very hardy green-house plant, and has hitherto been propagated by imported seeds only.[Pg 81]
PLATE CCCCI.
SERRATULA SPICATA.
Spiked-flowered Saw-wort.
CLASS XIX. ORDER I.
SYNGENESIA POLYGAMIA ÆQUALIS. Tips united. Æqual Polygamy.
ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.