Corydalises
The tuberous-rooted Corydalises are pretty plants resembling in bloom those of the genus which have a herbaceous habit. The best known are bulbosa, known also as solida and tuberosa, also called cava, of both of which there are purple or lilac and white forms. Halleri is a pretty variety of bulbosa. C. nobilis, with yellow flowers, is a handsome May-blooming plant. Semenowii and Sewerzowii are both good yellow species and Scouleri has pale purple flowers and graceful leaves. They like peaty soil and a little shade.
Crinums
The Crinums are remarkably effective flowers, and some are perfectly hardy if given a warm position, preferably one in front of a greenhouse or a wall. The best known is longifolium, also called capense, which has fine fragrant pale rose flowers. The white variety alba is also pretty. Moorei is hardy if planted as recommended, and Powelli and Powelli album are equally as hardy as longifolium. Yemense is a fine white Crinum. Some patience is often necessary until the plants are strong enough to flower. They need copious supplies of water, and should have little litter about them in the first few winters. Their fine leaves are handsome but require a place sheltered from the wind.
Crocosmias and Montbretias
These two flowers go naturally together, not only because Crocosmia aurea is understood to be one of the parents of the hybrid Montbretias, but also because of the resemblance of their long spikes of bright flowers. The only species of Crocosmia, that named above, is a pretty and showy plant, though it is scarcely so hardy as some of the Montbretias and requires protection with dry litter or ashes in some districts when grown in the open. Plant about six inches deep in spring. The form C. a. imperialis is very fine and C. a. maculata is also worth growing. They all make good pot plants for a cool house.
WHITE CROCUSES IN GRASS
The hybrid Montbretias are now so well known as to need no commendation, and the constant production of new varieties renders it inexpedient to give a list of varieties. While they are perfectly hardy in some gardens, in others they must be protected in a similar manner to the Crocosmias. It is also desirable to lift them and replant a few inches apart when they show signs of flowering unsatisfactorily. Otherwise they may be treated like the Crocosmias. They like a sunny, but not too dry, place in the garden.
Crocuses