Vanda Parishii Marriottiana was first flowered by Sir W. H. S. Marriott, Bart., in honour of whom it was named by Professor Reichenbach. It is totally distinct from the type, which was figured in the first volume of this work under [Plate 15]; and from which it will be seen that while in that the sepals and petals are distinctly spotted, they are in the variety before us of a bronzy brown, richly suffused with magenta, the lip being altogether of a rich magenta, as in the original form. This variety also differs from the type in having scentless flowers; and, moreover, the growth of the plant is altogether distinct, the leaves being more closely set on the short stem, as well as narrower, and less drooping.
A curious fact is mentioned by Professor Reichenbach, in his original description of this choice variety, namely, that, when fading, the blossoms take on an olive-green tint with dark blotches, thus in some degree reverting to the original colours.
Vanda Parishii Marriottiana requires the same treatment as other Vandas, and which has been already described under [Plate 15].
Orchids in France.—The Chateau de Gouville is situated about twelve miles from Rouen, in a most picturesque part of Normandy, and is the country seat of the Comte de Germiny, a nobleman who is a most ardent admirer of Orchids, and spares no pains to extend his very fine collection, which is unequalled in France. The plant houses are situated near to the Chateau, and are well built of iron and stone, having circular roofs. On entering the first, which is filled with Caladiums and Gloxinias, one is at once struck with the beauty of these flowers; there is an endless variety of colour in the collection, and the size of the flowers is remarkable, larger than any we have previously met with. There is yet another house entirely filled with Gloxinias, which we had to pass through, when a large house is reached, where Stove Plants with ornamental foliage are planted out in the central portion, forming a handsome parterre, through which a stream of water flows. Above this natural undergrowth, the Vandas and Saccolabiums are suspended in baskets, and as a collection, are the finest we have ever seen. Among them we noted grand plants of V. suavis, of V. tricolor and its finest varieties, and of V. cœrulea, some of them being several feet high, and in perfect health. We also noticed enormous masses of Saccolabiums growing on suspended blocks of wood, as imported. The plants evidently like this treatment, as they are rooting most profusely among the undergrowth, and the effect is indeed most charming. On the side stages are some grand plants of Phalænopsis Schilleriana, and of P. amabilis, as well as numerous Saccolabiums, Aërides, &c. We noticed a nice plant of the rare Renanthera matutina in bloom; this is a little gem, reminding one of a miniature Renanthera coccinea. At one end of this fine house, growing on rustic stands, is a fine collection of Nepenthes, forming together with the Orchids and other plants, as viewed from the entrance, a truly imposing tropical scene.
Leaving this house, we came to a compartment where are some grand plants of Cœlogyne cristata, with large masses of Pescatoreas, Bolleas, Dendrobes, &c., in vigorous health. The Cattleya house contains some wonderful examples of cultivation; we noticed particularly the following:—Cattleya exoniensis in bloom; two fine specimens of C. labiata pallida just past flower; Lælia elegans alba; L. Perrinii, fine specimens in bloom; Cattleya gigas just opening; and several grand plants of C. Trianæ, showing quantities of flower, as well as of C. Mossiæ, and Lælia purpurata.
In the Odontoglossum house are many fine plants of good varieties and of rare species, all doing well, and presenting a picture of health. Here we saw the true Cypripedium Chantinii flowering profusely, and C. Spicerianum with several spikes. A small house adjoining this is entirely devoted to Phalænopsids, the plants being suspended from the roof in baskets over tanks of water, which method of cultivation seems to agree well with them.
Altogether this is one of the finest collections of Orchids we have ever had the good fortune to see, the East Indian kinds being especially well cultivated. Great credit is due to M. Rondeau, the gardener, for the manner in which he manages his plants, and as M. le Comte remarked to us, for a gardener to grow his plants well, he must love them as he loves his children.—H. Williams.
PL. 62. MASDEVALLIA IGNEA.