*.?« ...■■.-■■<■■ . ■ : i . j lifts ■: -'. '.:,:' . :. ; ; ''..• •. ' ,!:jf;j . ' ''■"■■'' fi i ■'■ •• " : • ■■■• ■ ' i i % . -.v. ! ■ ■ . v . : y -■■■.■'■■■:■,.... \ ii;j ,.,■ '.'■■-■■■■■, ■ . ■ ■ ■ .. ■■ ■ . , | • . ii, i ■ ■;■ . -. ■■ ,:■■■. ■■■■.-■.....■ 0 • ■■ ■■■■■ ■ ' ■ ■<-,." i - -. ' ■ ■: -''. ;; ■■■: , . i\ i .. ; •■: ! . y ■ '.':■ . ■ : ■ ..<"'"/ ;1 — ' ' \ . '■ ■•■ , , ,; : i \> ■ j ANDBOOK OF AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. LIBRARY BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY __ m St. From 1 Call No. M L Ace. riS£ !6£ BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY .... t. rom :aii No. Ace. N^" . i3S65 8 HENDERSON'S Handbook of Plants AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. PETER HENDERSON, AUTHOR OF y GARDENING FOR PROFIT," "PRACTICAL FLORICULTURE," "GARDENING FOR PLEASURE," ETC., ETC., AND JOINT AUTHOR OF HOW THE FARM PAYS." ■ • • NEW EDITION. »•« • ■ »•• • • »' • «•••' 5 \ • » " ' * > * 0 NEW YORK: PUBLISHED BY PETER HENDERSON & COMPANY, 35 AND 37 CORTLANDT STREET. 1890. Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1889, by PETER HENDERSON & CO., In the Office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington, D. C. t *- t < c i < • • 11', « i - f C * • .». *.. PREFACE TO THE SECOND EDITION. ~y^ LTHOUGH I have every reason to be satisfied with the flattering reception / % given to the first edition of the Handbook of Plants, issued in 1881, yet I HI % have ever believed that its scope was too limited; that the requirements ^*S£) of the thousands of amateurs, young florists and gardeners, needed some- thing having a wider range. To meet that want there is not only added in the present edition all the new genera of any importance up to date, but there is specified in many instances the more important and useful species and varieties of the genera described, together with brief instructions for propagation and culture. The botanical and technical terms, and a very full list of the best-known English or popular names, are also given, and great care has been exercised to have all the generic names accentuated according to the latest authorities. Nearly one thousand engravings of the various plants described in the body of this work are shown. The natural system of arrange- ment being now generally used, is adopted in the descriptions instead of the Linnaean or artificial system. Very full instructions are given for the culture and forcing of all Fruits, Flowers and Vegetables of importance, such as Grape Vines, Strawberries, Roses, Bulbs of all kinds, Celery, Cauliflower, Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Mushrooms, etc. ; in short, I believe that there is sufficient matter given on all gardening subjects to allow me to claim for this book that it is an American Gardener's Dictionary. A series of tables and memoranda on horticultural and agricultural subjects, such as Seeds, Crops, Stock, Forestry, Measures, "Weights, Temperature, etc., is also added, which, together with a carefully compiled glossary of the technical terms used in describing plants, and a monthly calendar of operations for the green-house and window garden, flower, fruit and kitchen garden, will undoubtedly render this edition valuable as a book of reference. The name of the book will now be " The Handbook of Plants and General Horti- culture," and I believe that for all practical purposes it will be better adapted to the wants of American horticulturists than any of the more costly British works on garden- ing, and at one-third of their cost; for though from a foreign standpoint these are all they claim to be, yet for the American climate much of the information, and especially the gardening instructions, are not only useless, but actually misleading. In the first edition of this work I was largely indebted to the following books as authorities : Loudon's Encycloprodia of Plants; Paxton's Botanical Dictionary; Paxton's Magazine of Botany; Johnson's Gardener's Dictionary; Mcintosh's Book of the Garden; Rhind's Vegetable Kingdom ; Lindley's Treasury of Botany ; Orchid Grower's Manual ; Miller's Gardener's Diction- ary; Gerarde's Herbal (1597); Parkinson's Garden of Pleasant Flowers (1629); Dodoen's Plants (1587); Gray's Manual of Botany; Chapman's Southern Flora; American Agriculturist, of New York ; The Gardener's Monthly, of Philadelphia, Pa. ; and The Garden, London, England. In addition to the above, I am indebted for plants of late introduction to — Nicholson's Dictionary of Gardening, The Garden Oracle, Robinson's English Flower Garden, The Gardener's Chronicle, Journal of Horticulture (London), and the various American horticultural journals. In compiling this edition, I have been most ably assisted by Mr. Wm. J. Davidson, of Brooklyn, N. T. , who not only is a thorough botanist, but is perhaps the peer of any man in the United States to-day in his all-round knowledge of garden work. PETER HENDERSON. Jersey City, N. J., January, 1890. INDEX. Although this work is alphabetically arranged, yet as a quicker means of looking up cultural directions of important plants and matters pertaining to general horticulture, we give the follow- ing Index : Page Alfalfa 15 Alpine Plants 17 Annuals 24 Asparagus 35 Avenues 39 Bark 42 Bedding 46 Binding Plants 50 Blackberry 384 Blight 61 Borders, Flower 53 Bouquets, etc 54 Budding 69 Cauliflower 75 Celery 76 Cisterns 88 Club Root 92 Coffee 94 Cold Frames and Pits 96 Color in Flowers 97 Conservatory 100 Coral Tree 144 Cotton Plant 172 Cranberry 294 Cultivator HI Damping off 120 Designs 123 Draining 133 Egg Plant 137 Ferns 152 Fertilizers 153 Florists' Flowers 166 Forcing Fruits, Flowers and Vege- tables 156 Fountains 157 Frozen Plants 159 Gas Lime and Gas Tar 163 Ginkgo Tree 390 Gladiolus 166 Glass and Glazing 167 Grafting 173 Grape Vine. 482 Grasses 173 and 174 Green-bouse 176 Hand Glass 180 Hanging Baskets 180 Heating by Flues, Hot-beds, Hot Water, etc 181-183 Hedges 184 Herbaceous Plants., 186 Page Herbarium 188 Horse-radish 193 Hybridization 197 Immortelles 185 Insecticides 201 Insects 202 Johnson Grass 210 Lawn 219 Lilies 225 Lily of the Valley 101 Magnolia 238 Manures 242 Marker 244 Mildew 253 Moles 266 Mulching 260 Mushrooms 261 Narcissus 269 Orchard 286 Orchid Culture 287 Ornamental Planting 290 Paper Plants 302 Parlor Gardening 303 Pearl Millet 309 Pitcher Plants 273 Planting 330 Planting, Evil of Deep 330 Plant Protectors 331 Plants in Booms 331 Plants for Shady Places 331 Plants for Sea Side 404 Plant Stove 331 Plants, Unhealthy 332 Poisonous Plants 337 Potting 344 Propagation by Cuttings , . 350 Propagation by Layering 862 Propagation by Seeds, etc 349 Pruning 353 Rake, use of 363 Raspberry 384 Rhubarb 367 Rock Garden 373 Rock Work 374 Rollers 375 Roman Hyacinth 195 Rose . 376 Rose, culture of the 380 Rotation of Crops 383 Rust 386 Pagh Rustic Work 386 Sainfoin 283 Screens 402 Sea Kale 403 Seeds, where grown 405' Shading 411 Soil 417 Sorghum 419' Sowing, use of the feet in 422 Smilax 26T Strawberry 435- Strawberry Forcing 436 Stock Gilliflower 245 Subsoiling 440 Sub-tropical Garden 440 Table, Stage and Bench 444 Temperature 448 Transplanting 468- Trenching 460 Tuberose 338 Vases 47* Ventilating 474 Violets 480 Walks 487 Wardian Case 488 WaterCress 270 Waterfall 489 Watering 489 Water Lilies 278 and 478 Water Plants 490 Weeds 492: Winter Flowering Plants 495- Working Roots 497 Glossary 604-510 Calendar of Garden Operations (Monthly) 511-518 Tables on Temperature 519 Soil, Memoranda on 520' Manures, " 620 Fertilizers, " 620- Crops, " 621 Seeds. " 621 Stock, " 622 Forestry, *' 523 Masonry, etc., " 523 Weights and Measures 624 Foreign Money 525 Measuring Trees and other Mis- cellaneous Information 62i HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. AAB Aaron's Beard. Hypericum calycinum. aron's Club. Verbascum Thapaus. Aba'ca, a popular name given to one of the Musas or Bananas of the Philippine Islands, which yields Manilla hemp. Abe'le. The White Poplar, Populua alba, of Eu- rope ; a tree that has been extensively planted as an ornamental tree, but discarded because of its tendency to sucker and spread beyond control. Abe'lia. After Dr. Abel, physician to the embas- sage of Lord Amherst to China. Nat. Ord. Caprifoliacem. A small genus of green-house shrubs, found in India, China, Mexico, and Japan. They are of a slender branching habit, bearing opposite leaves and terminal bunches of tubular rose- colored or dark crimson flowers. A. rupestris, a native of China, is of dwarf habit, and flow- ers profusely in autumn or winter. The flowers are in compact clusters, very fragrant. A. rupestris grandiflora, a seedling of Italian origin, has larger flowers, and the whole plant is more robust. A. Jloribunda, a Mexican species, has dark-colored flowers, produced from the axils of the leaves. All the species are increased by cuttings. Introduced in 1844. Abelmo'schus esculentus. The modern botan- ical name for Okra. See Hibiscus. Abe'ria. A genus of Flacourtiaceai, consisting of a few species, mostly natives of tropical Af- rica, the Cape, and Ceylon. The fruits of A. Caffra, the Kei apple of the Cape, are of a golden-yellow color, about the size of a small apple, and are used by the natives for making a preserve. They are so exceedingly acid when fresh, that the Dutch settlers prepare them for their table as a pickle, without vin- egar. The plant is also much grown for hedges; being densely clothed with strong, dry spines, it forms an impenetrable fence. Aberrant. Something which differs from the customary or usual structure, or deviates from the natural or direct way. Also, a group of plants which stands intermediate, as it were, between two other groups ; e. g., Fuma- riacece, which are by some regarded as an aberrant group of Papaveracece. .Allies. Spruce, Fir. The classical Latin name, Nat. Ord. Coniferm. An extensive genus of hardy evergreen trees. Most of the species are ornamental, and are ABB extensively planted for hedges around large grounds, or for single specimens on the lawn. A. excelsa, the Norway Spruce, is the most commonly planted, and is one of the most graceful and popular species. A. alba is the White Spruce; A. balsamea, the Balsam Fir; and A. nigra, the Black or Double Spruce. The correct name of A. Canadensis, the Hem- lock Spruce, is Tsuga Canadensis, which see. A. Douglasii, syn. Pseudotsuga Douglasii, is a noble species, common west of the Bocky Mountains. It attains a height of two hun- dred feet, and a diameter of ten feet, and is entitled to a place among the "great trees" of California. Abnormal. Opposed to the usual structure. Thus, stamens standing opposite to petals are abnormal, it being usual for stamens to be alternate with petals if equal to them in num- ber. Leaves growing in pairs from the same side of a stem, as in Atropa Belladonna, and flower stalks adherent to the midrib of a bract, as in Tilia, are also abnormal. Abo'bra. Its Brazilian name. Nat. Ord. Cu- curbitaceaz. A. viridiflora is a very pretty climber, suita- ble for planting out during summer. Foliage dark green and glossy ; flowers insignificant, but the small scarlet fruit makes the plant very effective. Boot tuberous, perennial. Keep during winter like the Dahlia. Abortive. Imperfectly developed ; as abortive stamens, which consist of a filament only; abortive petals, which are mere bristles or scales. Abro'ma. From a, privative, and broma, food ; unfit to be eaten. Nat. Ord. Sterculiaceai. Handsome, free-flowering species of easy culture, growing readily in common loam, and propagated by seeds or offsets. The flowers are in terminal or axillary clusters, yellow or purple. A. sinuosa, from Madagascar, intro- duced in 1884, is a very pretty plant of slender habit. The bark of A. augusta, a native of the East Indies, furnishes a very strong white fiber, used in the manufacture of cordage that is not liable to be weakened by exposure to wet. Of easy culture; propagated by seeds or cuttings. Introduced to cultivation in 1770. Abro'nia. Sand Verbena. From abros, deli- cate ; referring to its involucrum. Nat. Ord. Nyctaginacem. These charming annuals are natives of Cal- ifornia. A. umbellata, introduced in 1826, is a HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS ABR handsome trailing plant, well adapted for rock-work, suspended baskets, or beds, flow- ering freely during the autumn months. Flowers in trusses, like the Verbena, of a rosy-lilac color, very fragrant. They succeed well also in the gar ien border. Seed should be sown as soon as the ground is in order. They may with profit be started in a hot-bed or frame, and transplanted to any desired sit- uation. A'brus. Wild Liquorice. From abros, soft ; in allusion to the delicacy of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A. precatorius, the only species, is found in India, the West Indies, and the Mauritius. It is chiefly remarkable for its small, egg-shaped seeds, which are of a brilliant scarlet color, with a black mark, indicating the place where they were attached to the pod. These seeds are much used for necklaces and other orna- mental purposes, and are employed in India as a standard of weight, under the name of Rati. The weight of the Koh-i-noor diamond is known to have been ascertained in this way. The specific name is from precatorius, prayer, the seeds being used for rosaries. Absinth. See Artemisia absinthium. Abu'tilon. Chinese Bell-flower. Arabic name for a plant like a Mallow. Nat. Ord. Malvaceae,. A highly interesting genus of free-growing and free-flowering shrubs, excellent both for the green-house and for garden decoration in summer. They produce white, rose, yellow, or orange-colored flowers, all except the white being veined or striped with red and crimson. They grow rapidly when planted in sandy loam, and are readily propagated by cuttings. Aca'cia. From akazo, to sharpen, on account of the prickliness of the species first noticed. Nat. Ord. Leguminosai. An extensive group of really handsome plants, many of them assuming in their native positions the character of timber trees; but with us are easily accommodated in a good conservatory, where their bright yellow flow- ers, produced in winter and early spring, are highly ornamental. The species best deserv- ing of cultivation are all natives of Australia, New South Wales, and other temperate re- gions, and are among the hardiest and most easily cultivated of green-house plants. They succeed best when planted out in the green- house, but may be satisfactorily managed in pots, if grown in a sandy loam. Cuttings may be struck in a gentle heat under glass, though young plants are more easily obtained from seed. Acae'na. From Akaina, a thorn ; in allusion to the thorns or bristles on the calyx or fruit. Nat. Ord. Rosacea. A small genus, natives of Australia and Tas- mania. A. microphylla is a dwarf-growing plant, with dark brown pinnately-divided leaves, growing freely in light soil ; flowers in globular heads in August and September. It is chiefly remarkable for the crimson-colored spines that protrude from the angles of the calyx. Propagation by cuttings. Introduced 1854. Syn. A. Novw Zealandice. Aca'lypha. From akalos, unpleasant, and aphe, touch. Nat. Ord. Euphorbiaceaz. This genus comprises over two hundred species, widely distributed over the warmer ACA regions, several being extra-tropical Ameri- can. A. tricolor is a handsome green-house shrub with coppery-green foliage, curiously blotched, mottled, and splashed with red and crimson. It is a native of the New Hebrides. Introduced in 1866. A. Macafeeana, A. Mar- ginata, and others of the hybridized varieties, when well grown have highly-colored leaves, and as they stand the sun well, are desirable for vases, rustic designs, or garden decora- tions. They are increased by cuttings. Acantha'ceee. A large order of soft-wooded herbaceous plants with monopetalous axillary flowers. In tropical regions they are very common, constituting a large part of the herb- age. One genus, however, the Acanthus, is found in Greece, and two, Dianthera and Ruellia, are natives of this country. The greater part are mere weeds, but some are plants of great beauty, especially the species of Justida, Aphelandra, Cyrtanthera, anci Ruellia. For the most part they are mucilag- inous and slightly bitter, and some are used in dyeing. Acantholi'mon. From Acanthos, a spine, and limon, sea-lavender; referring to its leaves and bracts. Nat. Ord. Plumbaginacece. A. glumaceum, the only species of interest, is a dense, tufty, prostrate plant, with needle- shaped leaves and pink flowers, closely re- lated to Statice, and formerly grown under the name of S. Ararati; it is well adapted for rock- work ; blooms in July and August. Na- tive of Armenia. Introduced in 1851. Acanthopa'nax. From acanthos, a spine, and Panax ; alluding to the spiny stems andPanax- like aspect of the plants. Nat. Ord. Araliacew. A genus of green-house shrubs, natives of Japan, China, and tropical Asia, differing bo- tanically from Aralia, from which genus they are removed. There are about eight species, of which the most desirable are A. ricinifolia. (syn. Aralia Maximowiczii) and A. spinosum, better known as Aralia penlaphylla. Acanthophip'pium. A genus of terrestrial or- chids allied to Bletia, with large, fleshy, tubu- lar flowers growing almost at the base of the leaves. The flowers are rather pretty and fragrant, remaining a long time in bloom. There are, however, so many more desirable orchids that they are rarely seen in collections of these popular plants. Acanthophoe'nix. A genus of Palms, estab- lished for two species, closely allied to Areca, from the Masearen Islands. They do not ap- pear to differ from that genus except in habit. The stems are shorter, and the petiole and midrib of the leaves are armed with long fili- form prickles. Introduced in 1868. Acanthorhi'za. A small genus of Palms, closely allied to Chamazrops, from which, how- ever, they differ in having their leaves divided into broad segments, and the peculiar spiny roots which surround the base of the stem. These plants are very ornamental, either for the conservatory or the sub-tropical garden. Acan'thus. From akanthos, a spine ; some of the species being spiny. Nat. Ord. Acan' thacem. A group of stately ornamental perennial plants, mostly hardy, remarkable for their vig- orous growth and beautiful foliage. It is con- .c^r- ABKONIA. ADONIS -ESTIVALIS. ADLUMIA. ABIES ALBA. ABUTILON. AGROSTEMMA CORONABIA. ACROCLINIUM. ACHIMEMib. ADONIS VERNALIS. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. ACA jectured that the leaf of A. spinosus furnished the model for the decoration of the capitals of the columns in the Corinthian style of archi- tecture. Propagated by seeds or division of the roots. Acaulescent. With apparently no stem. Accessory. Something additional, not usually present. Acclimatize. To accustom a plant to live in the open air without protection, in a country where it is not indigenous. We give the meaning attached to the term, though we question the popular belief. Plants may be- come acclimatized in the course of ages, but not perceptibly in any one generation. It is true we can temporarily and gradually harden off a plant so that it will stand a great degree of cold, but the product of that plant, whether from cuttings or seeds, will not be hardier than the original individual. Accumbent. Lying against anything ; used in opposition to incumbent, or lying upon some- thing ; a term employed in describing the em- bryo of Crucifers. A'cer. Maple. From acer, hard, or sharp ; the wood is extremely hard, and was formerly much used for making pikes and lances. Nat. Ord. Aceracece. A genus comprised for the most part of handsome deciduous shrubs and trees, well adapted for forming shrubberies, and used ex- tensively as shade trees. Several of the spe- cies produce very valuable timber. Sugar is one of the constituent parts of the sap in all of the species, and in this country large quan- tities of excellent sugar and syrup are manu- factured from the sap of the Sugar Maple, A. Saccharatum. The beautiful varieties of A. Japonicum and A. palmatum, introduced by Mr. Thomas Hogg from Japan, form strikingly handsome objects for lawn decoration. The leaves of some of them are beautifully dis- sected, rivalling fern fronds in beauty, while many others have the richest tints of yellow, pink, red and brown, giving them during the entire summer a rich autumnal appearance. They are perfectly hardy, and are increased by grafting on a dwarf Japanese species. A. negundo, or Box Elder, is now called Negimdo aceroides, or N. fraxinifolium, which see. Acera'ceae. A natural order of trees and shrubs inhabiting Europe, the temperate parts of Asia, the north of India, and North America. The order is unknown in Africa and the southern hemisphere. The bark of some is astringent, and yields reddish-brown and yellow colors. The order only contains three genera, and rather more than fifty species, of which the Maple and Sycamore are well-known repre- sentatives. A'ceras. Man Orchis. From o, without, and Keras, a horn; the lip having no spur. A very interesting genus of terrestrial orchids, the most singular of which is the Green Man Orchis, indigenous to dry, chalky pastures in the southeast of England. Acera'tes. Green Milkweed. A genus of Ascle- pediacem, natives of America and Mexico. The leaves of A. Viridiflora, one of the most com- mon species, are singularly variable in form, ranging Lfrom obovate to lanceolate, or linear. ACI Acerose. Needle pointed ; fine and slender, with a sharp point. Acha'nia Malvaviscus. A synonym of Malva- viscus arborens, which see. Achille'a. Yarrow. Named in honor of Achilles, a pupil of Chiron, who first used it in medi- cine. Nat. Ord. Compoaiice. Free-flowering, hardy herbaceous plants, particularly suited to plant among rock-work, or in situations refused by more tender plants. They are chiefly European plants, and the pre- vailing colors of the flowers are yellow and white. A. millefolium, or Milfoil, the common Yarrow, is common on our roadsides and neg- lected fields. A. tomentosa, of dense habit, is one of the best and brightest yellow flowers for the herbaceous border, or rock-garden. A. Ptarmica flore-pleno is another most useful hardy perennial, producing a wealth of its double white flowers all summer. It is also very useful for cutting. Called erroneously by some A. alba flora-plena. Achime'nes. From cheimaino, to suffer from cold, and a prefixed as an augmentive ; allud- ing to the tenderness of the genus. Nat. Ord. Qesneraceai. One of the finest of modern introductions, the whole of the species being splendid sum- mer ornaments of the green-house or conserv- atory. Flowers of all shades, from white to crimson. The scaly bulbs or tubers require to be kept perfectly dormant in winter, and about January to be potted in light loam and leaf-mould, plunged into a moderate hot-bed, and encouraged with a warm, genial atmos- phere. When they have attained a few inches in height they may be placed several together in a shallow pan, or repotted separately, and by the end of April gradually inured to the temperature of the green-house, where they afford a blaze of beauty the whole of the sum- mer. They are mostly natives of Mexico and Guatemala, though a few have been received from the West Indies. Achyra'nthes. From achuron, chaff, and anthos, a flower; in allusion to the chaffy nature of the floral leaves. Nat. Ord. Amaranthacece. Most of this genus are of but little value. Some of the species are very beautiful, and largely employed in ribbon-gardening, or any situation where plants need to be "trained," as they can be made to grow in any desired shape or form. They require the full sunshine to develop their intense color. Propagated by cuttings. Syns. Iresine and Chamissoa. Acine'ta. From akineta, immovable ; the lip being jointless. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A small genus of curious epiphytal Orchids from Mexico. Flowers yellow, crimson and yellow, and chocolate and crimson, borne on slender spikes about one foot long. They are of easy culture, requiring a house of medium temperature, and to be grown in baskets of moss. Introduced in 1837. Aciphy'lla. From ake, a point, and phyllon, a leaf; referring to the sharply-pointed seg- ments of the leaf. A remarkable genus of Umbelliferm, differing only by its curious habit and spinescent char- acter from IAgusticum. A. Colensoi, a native of New Zealand, forms a circular bush five or six feet in diameter, of bayonet-like spines, having flowering stems six to nine feet high, HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OP PLANTS ACI covered with very long spinous leaflets. Two species are known, both of which are called Spear Grass and Wild Spaniard by the settlers. Propagated by seeds or divisions in spring. Introduced in 1875. A'cis. After Acis, a Sicilian shepherd. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. A genus of hardy bulbs closely allied to the Snowflake; propagated readily by offsets. They should have a sandy soil, and not be often divided. Acme'na. A small genus of green-house ever- green shrubs of the Nat. Ord. Myrtacece. A. ovata has ovate leaves, which, along with the stems and petioles, are dark purple, giving the plants when making new growth a very strik- ing appearance. Acni'da. Water Hemp. Taken from a, priva- tive, and knide, nettle ; the plant being like a Nettle, but without stings. Nat. Ord. Che.no- podiacem. A . cannabina, the only species, is a coarse- growing, uninteresting plant, common in salt marshes on the coast from Massachusetts to the Carolinas. Aconite. See Aconitum. A popular name for Eranthis Aconite, Winter. hyemalis. Aconitum. Aconite, Monkshood, Wolfsbane. From Acone, a town in Bithynia, where found. Nat. Ord. Ranunculacece. Herbaceous perennials, chiefly natives of Europe, but partly of North America and Ja- pan. They are all hardy, and are generally tall-growing, handsome plants, producing abundance of dark blue, purple or yellow flow- ers. They grow freely, and are good plants for the open border. They are readily in- creased by division of the roots, which are generally tuberous, or by seeds. All the spe- cies are more or less poisonous, the poison being strongest in the root. Like all plants which grow with tall, erect stems, and pro- duce their flowers in terminal spikes, they are only suitable for growing in borders in large gardens, or for clumps on a lawn. The species may be divided into two kinds : those with the helmet like a monk's cowl, which are called Monkshood, and those which have an elon- gated conical helmet, and are called Wolfs- bane. Aco'ntias. A small genus of plants so named in allusion to the spots on the stem, which re- semble those of a species of serpent, so called. The genus belongs to the Caladium tribe of the Arum family, and require the same treatment. Natives of Brazil. Syn. Xan- tho8ma. Acorus. Sweet Flag, Calamus. From a, priva- tive, and kore, the pupil of the eye ; referring to its medicinal qualities. Nat. Ord. Aroidece. A well-known genus of marsh plants, natives of the United States, Europe and Asia. A. calamus is the Sweet Flag, esteemed for its medicinal virtues. A. gramineus variegatus is a pretty species, with white-striped leaves forming handsome little tufts, very useful for hanging baskets, vases, &c, as well as for cutting. Acotyledons. Plants having no cotyledons or seed-lobes, as in Cuscuta. In systematic bot- any applied to spore-bearing plants which do ACR not produce cotyledons, as Ferns and Mosses ; also to spores themselves, which are embryos, without cotyledons. Acrade'nia. Nat. Ord. Rutacece. A neat, compact, evergreen green-house plant, introduced from Tasmania in 1845. A. Franklinice has pure white flowers, produced in great profusion in terminal clusters. Leaves fragrant, opposite, and trifoliate. Acrocli'nium. From akros, top, and Mine, a bed ; referring to the open flowers. Nat. Ord. Compositce. This interesting annual is one of the most valuable of the class known as Everlasting Flowers, and is grown extensively for winter bouquets. The seeds should be started in the hot-bed and transplanted where they are to grow. Flowers should be picked as they be- gin to expand, and carefully dried in the shade. Introduced from Western Australia in 1854. Acroco'mia. From akros, top, and kome, a tuft ; referring to the way the leaves are produced. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. A genus of gigantic Palms, natives of South America and the West Indies. Some of the species grow to the height of forty feet, with leaves fifteen feet in length, giving to the coun- tries they inhabit a feature of exquisite grand- eur. The young leaves are eaten as a vege- table, and the fruit, root, and stems are ap- plied to various economic purposes. Some of the species are found in our green-houses, but are too large for general hot-house culture. A'crogens. Plants increasing at the summit, as Ferns, etc. Acrony'chia. From akron, tuft or summit, and onux, a claw, on account of the original spe- cies having an incurved point at the top of the petals. Nat. Ord. Rutacem. A Cunninghami, the only described species, is a tall handsome shrub, bearing clusters of white flowers of an exquisite odor, resembling orange blossoms, combined with the aromatic warmth of ginger. The leaves abound in a resinous or oily fluid of a powerful turpentine- like odor. It requires to be grown in a warm house, and is propagated by cuttings. Introduced in 1838 from Moreton Bay. Acrope'ra. From acros, the extremity and pera, a small sack ; because of the saccate ap- pendage at the apex of the labellum. Nat. Ord. Orchidacew. A small genus of interesting plants from Mexico and Central America, producing their curious flowers plentifully in pendant bunches. A. Loddigesii is one of the more common spe- cies, and is a free-flowering plant of easy cul- ture. None of the species take a very high rank among Orchids. This genus is included under Gongora, by some botanists. Acro'phorus. From akros, summit, andphoreo, to bear. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. A small genus of handsome green-house Ferns from Borneo and New Zealand. They are closely allied to Davallia and require the same treatment. Acrophy'llum. From akros, summit, and phyllon, a leaf ; referring to the way in which the leaves are produced at the summit of the branches above the flowers. Nat. Ord. Cunoniacece. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. ACR A small genus of very handsome green-house plants, that flower profusely in the spring. The flowers are small, white tinged with red, produced in dense whorls round the upper part of the stem and branches. They are na- tives of New Holland, introduced in 1836. Propagated by cuttings. Acro'pteris. From akros, a summit, and pteris, a Fern. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. This beautiful Fern, allied to Aaplenium, is a green-house variety, readily propagated by division of the roots. It requires a light, loamy soil, with a liberal mixture of sand and leaf mould. A native of New Holland. Acros'tichum. Supposed to refer to the begin- ning of a verse, on account of the back sur- faces of the leaves being so lined as to resem- ble in some degree the commencement of lines in poetry. Nat. Ord. PolypodiacecB. An interesting genus of tropical Ferns, that succeed well in a mixture of loam and leaf mould. The species having long fronds, are admirably adapted for growing on blocks or in hanging baskets, and the dwarfer sorts do well in Wardian cases. Increased by division of roots, or by seed. First introduced from the West Indies in 1792. According to some botanists the genus now includes Aconiopteris, Chry8odium, Egenolphia, Elaphoglossum, Gym- nopteris, Olfersia, Polybotrya, Rhipidopteris, Soromanes, Stenochlcena and Stenosemia. Actee'a. Baneberry. From aktara, the Elm; resemblance of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Ranun- culacecB. A genus of hardy herbaceous perennials, of but little beauty; common in rich woods in the Northern States. The berries are poisonous. Actini'dia. From actin, a ray ; the styles radi- ate like the spokes of a wheel. Nat. Crd. TemslrcBmiacece. A genus of ornamental, hardy, deciduous, climbing shrubs, with en- tire leaves and axillary corymbs of white flowers. A. polygama is a vigorous and ele- gant perfectly hardy climber, with white sweet-scented flowers much resembling the Hawthorn, followed by bunches of edible berries. It was introduced from Japan in 1870, and is propagated by seeds, layers or cuttings. A'ctino'meris. From aktin, a ray, and meris, a part referring to the radiated aspect of the plants. Nat. Ord. Compositce. Hardy orna- mental plants, allied to Helianthus, with yel- low Coreopsis-like flower heads; natives of this country, sometimes cultivated. A'ctinio'pteris. From aktin, a ray, and pteris, a Fern ; the fronds are radiately cut into nar- row segments. Nat. Ord. Filices. A small genus of neat and distinct Stove Ferns. The fronds of A. radiata, grow three to five inches high, divided inwards from the margin and is a perfect miniature of the Fan Palm, Livis- tona Chinensia. Aculeate. Furnished with prickles, as dis- tinguished from spines. Acuminate. A term applied to leaves or other flat bodies which narrow gradually till they form a long termination. If the narrowing takes place toward the base, it is so stated, as, acuminate at the base ; if toward the point, the term is used without qualification. Acute. Sharp pointed. ADD A'da. A complimentary name. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A. aurantiaca, the only species, is a beauti- ful epiphytal Orchid, found in high latitudes in New Grenada. It has broad, evergreen foli- age, and long terminal nodding racemes of orange-scarlet flowers, lasting a long time in perfection. It is a free-growing plant, and should have a cool, airy situation in the Orchid-house. It is increased by division. Introduced in 1844. Adam and Eve. See Aplectrum. Ada'mia. Named in honor of John Adam, some time Governor General of India. Nat. Ord. Saxifragacem. A small genus of green-house evergreen shrubs, natives of China and the East Indies. A. versicolor, one of the most beautiful of the few known species, is a native of China, and forms a dwarf smooth-branched shrub, fur- nished with large opposite leaves, resembling those of Hydrangea japonica. The flowers are produced in a pyramidal panicle nearly a foot in diameter, whitish while in bud, but grad- ually change to purple and violet. Propa- gated by cuttings. Introduced in 1844. Adam's Apple. The fruit of Musa paradisiaca. Adam's Needle. See Yucca. Adam's Needle and Thread. Yucca filamentosa. Adanso'nia. Baobab Tree. Named in honor of Michel Adanson, a famous French botanist and author, born in 1727. Nat. Ord. Sterculiacew. A. digitata (called Monkey Bread) is a native of Western Africa, and is also accredited to Egypt and Abyssinia. Previous to the dis- covery of the Sequoia in California, the Adan- sonia, or Baobab, as it is popularly called, was considered the largest tree in the world, some specimens being found thirty feet in diameter. At the height of twenty feet, the trunks sepa- rate into branches forty to fifty feet long and the size of great trees, with their remote branches touching the ground. The roots for a long distance are exposed, some of them measuring more than a hundred feet in length on the surface. How much longer they are, unexposed, could not readily be ascertained. The fruit is gourd-shaped, and is from nine to twelve inches long, and about four in diameter. The pulp is farinaceous and fibrous, and when ripe has a refreshing, acid taste. Eaten with sugar it is both pleasant and wholesome. The negroes on the western coast apply the trunks of these trees to a very extraordinary purpose. The tree is liable to be attacked by a fungus, which, vegetating in the woody part, without changing the color or appearance, destroys life, and renders the part so attacked as soft as the pith of trees in general. Such trunks are then hollowed into chambers, and within these are suspended the dead bodies of those to whom are refused the honor of burial. There they become mummies, perfectly dry, and well preserved, without further prepara- tion or embalming, and are known by the name giuriots. Adder's Mouth. The common name of the Mi- crostylis, a small bulbous plant, common in moist woods southward. Adder's Tongue. A name applied to the Ery- thronium Americanum, and also to the Fern, Ophioglossum vulgatum. 10 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS ADE Adena'ndra. From aden, a gland, and aner, the stamen or male organ ; referring to the aspect of the anthers. Nat. Ord. Rutacem. A somewhat extensive genus of green-house evergreen shrubs from the Cape of Good Hope. Some of them are cultivated for their large terminal corymbs of bright pink flowers, which are produced in June. All the species are in- creased by cuttings of the young wood. Intro- duced in 1812. Adenanthe'ra. The name is derived from aden, a gland, and anthera, an anther, in allusion to a gland on each anther. Nat. Ord. Legumi- nosce. A small genus of handsome tropical ever- green trees. A. pavonia grows to a great size in the East Indies, and yields a solid, useful timber, called Red Sandal wood. A dye is obtained by simply rubbing the wood against a wet stone ; and this is used by the Brahmins for marking their foreheads after religious bathing. The seeds are of a bright scarlet color, and are used by the jewellers in the East as weights, each seed weighing uniformly four grains. Adena'nthos. From aden, a gland, and anthos, a flower ; referring to the glands on the flow- ers. Nat. Ord. Proteacece. Ornamental evergreen pilose shrubs with red flowers, natives of New Holland. Prop- agated by cuttings. First introduced in 1824. Adenoca'rpus. From aden, a gland, and karpos, fruit; referring to the glands on the fruit. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. This genus is allied to Cytisus, and furnishes some remarkably handsome plants because of their profuse racemes of yellow flowers. A. hispanicus is a low, compact, rigid bush, re- markable for the number of its short lateral branches. It is very common on the hillsides of Southern Europe. A. decorticans is a beau- tiful evergreen shrub with bright yellow flow- ers, having the general appearance of Furze. It was introduced from Spain in 1883. Adeno'phora. A genus of hardy herbaceous perennials, allied to Campanula. The flowers are bell-shaped, and produced in branching panicles. They are readily increased by seeds, but will not bear division, and dislike being removed. Flowers blue. Native of Siberia. Ade'smia. An extensive genus of South Amer- ican plants, belonging to the Nat. Ord. Legu- minosai. They are mostly plants of but little interest. A. balsamifera, a Chilian species, called Jarilla, is a plant of great beauty when in flower. It yields a balsam which has a very pleasant odor, perceptible at a great distance. Adha'toda. Native name. Nat. Ord. Acan- thaceaz. A small genus of green-house shrubs, na- tives of India. The few species composing this genus were formerly included in Justicia. One of the more common species, A. vasica, was formerly called Justicia Adhatoda. A. cydoniafolia produces its flowers in panicles at the point of every branch. They are of a rich purple color, the large lower lip having a white stripe in the centre. It is very showy when in bloom, and makes an excellent plant for training up pillars or rafters. They bear a close resemblance to the Justiciar, and re- quire the same treatment. ADL Adia'nteae. A section of polypodiaceous Ferns, in which the receptacles to which the spore cases are attached are placed on the under surface of the indusium itself, so that the fructification is, as it were, upside down, and is hence said to be resupinate. Adi'anto'psis. From adiantum and opais, like ; resembling the Maiden-hair. Nat. Ord. Poly- podiacew. A small genus of elegant little Ferns from South America, the West Indies, and Africa. A. radiata, one of the best known species, is common in the "West Indies. The fronds rise about a foot high from a tufted crown, and radiate in a regular manner from a common center. The species are often seen in cultiva- tion, on account of their small size and elegant character. Propagated from seed. Some au- thorities now place this genus under Cheil- anthes. Adia'ntum. Maiden-hair Fern. From adiantos, dry ; the smooth foliage repelling rain-drops. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacem. Of this extensive and much-admired genus of Ferns, this country furnishes but one va- riety, A. pedatum, our common Maiden-hair, which grows in moist woods in nearly every section. Taken up in early spring and trans- planted into shady corners of our gardens, it grows readily, and is indispensable in the nat- ural arrangement of flowers in vases or bas- kets. Some of the exotic species of this genus may safely be pronounced the most beautiful Ferns known, which is a very broad assertion, in view of the very many rare and beautiful plants to be found in this natural order. All doubts, however, of the truth of the assertion will be removed when we see a well-grown plant of A. Farleyense in the fern-house. This interesting plant is a native of Barbadoes, whence it was introduced in 1864. It is the most distinct and beautiful of all the Maiden- hair Ferns, and the most difficult to grow to perfection. It requires a warm, moist atmos- phere. A. gracillimum and A. cuneatum are magnificent plants, and are grown in large numbers, the young plants, as well as the cut fronds, being used extensively in floral decora- tion. There are many other rare species under cultivation. The growing of this genus from spores has for a long time been practiced, and the several species, with the exception of Far- leyense, have been increased at a rapid rate in this way. But getting new varieties from spores, after hybridizing some of the finer spe- cies, is a new and unexpected result that has been achieved in a most astonishing and satis- factory manner by F. Roenbeck, of Bayonne, N. J. , who has not only given us several varie- ties, but one, A. Roenbeckii, which bears his name, that is, without exception, the most useful as well as the most graceful of any yet introduced. The fronds are erect, with a me- tallic luster, combined with the delicacy and grace of the finer species. It is well adapted for specimen culture, and is particularly useful in the arrangement of cut flowers, and when so used looks like a lace veil hung over the flowers. This variety was first exhibited in 1876. Adlu'mia. Mountain Fringe. Dedicated by Rafinesque to Major Adlum, an American au- thor. Nat. Ord. Fumariacece. ADIANTUM CUNEATCJM. >1- -i £ AGKOSTIS VULGARIS (RED TOP GRASS). AGAPANTHUS UMBELLATUS. »^ •a ... IO AGROKTTS NEBTTL08A. AGROSTEMMA. AGERATUM MEXICANTTM. ALOPECTTRCS PRATENSI8 (MEADOW FOX TAIL GRABS.) ALFALFA OR LUCERNE (MEDICAGO.) AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 11 ADN This beautiful climber is a hardy biennial, growing in moist woods in New York and the Alleghany Mountains of Virginia. It is com- monly called Fumitory, Alleghany Vine, and various other local names. It grows readily from seed, which should be sown in May, near a trellis or arbor. The plants will flower freely, without further care, the following season. Adnate. Grown to anything by the whole sur- face ; when an ovary is united to the side of the calyx, it is adnate. Ado'nis. Name of classical derivation. Nat. Ord. Ranunculacece. Herbaceous plants with showy flowers, na- tives of Europe, and of easy culture in any soil. The most ornamental species are A. ver- nalis, the spring-flowering Adonis, a perennial with bright yellow flowers, which is quite hardy, and is easily increased by division of the root; and A. autumnalis, the common an- nual Flos Adonis, or Pheasant's Eye, with dark crimson flowers. The annual kinds should be sown in autumn, as they will stand the winter in the open air ; or in February or March, as they are a long time in coming up. Adventitious. A term used to denote some part or organ that is developed in an unusual position ; as the leaf-buds that appear on va- rious parts of the surface of the stem, instead of being confined, as is generally the case, to the axils of the leaves. Applied also to roots, etc. ; for example, the Ivy throws out adventi- tious roots from along the stems, by which it clings to walls or trees for supports Adverse. Opposite. JE'chmea. From aichme, a point ; in reference to the rigid points on the calices, or flower en- velopes. Nat. Ord. Bromeliacece. A small genus of tropical plants, often epi- phytal, growing on the trunks of trees in the dense forests. They have strap, or sword- shaped, leaves, and produce panicles of bril- liant scarlet flowers. Propagated by division of the suckers or offsets. First introduced in 1844. iEgi'ceras. From aix, a goat, and keros, a horn ; alluding to the shape of the fruit. Nat. Ord. Myrsinacece. Small trees with obovate entire leaves and white fragrant flowers. JE. fragrans is a stout green-house evergreen milky shrub, flowering in April. Introduced from New Holland in 1824. JE'gilops. Goat's eye. Supposed to be useful for a disease of one corner of the eye ; hence the name. Nat. Ord. Graminacece. A genus of grasses allied to Triticum, or Wheat grass. It occurs wild in the South of Europe and parts of Asia. It has been held that the seeds of this plant may be changed into wheat by cultivation ; and that the ancient worship of Ceres, which considered the fields of Enna and of Trinacoria as the cradles of agriculture, had its origin in this transforma- tion of the native grass. Professor Latopie, of Bordeaux, affirms that, having cultivated the seed of the JEgilops, the plant has changed its generic character, and has made approaches to that of wheat. Other specific botanists have made the same assertion, giving the re- sults of their various experiments. It is, how- 2E23 ever, but just to say that but little credit has been given to these statements. We prefer to believe wheat to have been a special creation, rather than to have evolved from an inferior species. .ffi'gle. Bengal Quince. From JEgle one of the Hesperides. Nat. Ord. RutaceoB. JE. Marmelos, the only species, is a native of the East Indies, where it is highly esteemed for the fragrance of its orange-like flowers, and for its delicious fruit, which also, possesses an aperient quality which is particularly ser- viceable in habitual costiveness. Not only the fruit, but other portions of the plant are used for medicinal purposes; and a yellow dye is prepared from the rind of the fruit. JEgopo'dium. Gout weed. Bishop-weed. An umbelliferous plant with smooth thrice ternate leaves and white flowers, propagating itself by creeping root-stocks, which, like our native bind weed are singularly vivacious, so that when once it gets established, it is very diffi- cult to eradicate. A great pest in British and Continental gardens. A very pretty varie- gated variety is in cultivation, as a border plant. Aeration. The exposure of the soil to the free action of the air, as essential to the growth of plants. Aerial. Plants or parts of plants which grow entirely above the surface of the earth or water. Ae'rides. From aer, the air ; in reference to the power they have of living on air. Nat. Ord. Orchidacem. A splendid genus of East Indian epiphytal Orchids, remarkable for their beautiful white, pink, or rose-colored, fragrant flowers, and for their rich evergreen foliage. The general ap- pearance of these plants, their wonderful tenac- ity of life, the remarkable property they pos- sess of imbibing the whole of their nutriment from the atmosphere, without the intervention of any kind of earth, and the elegance and rich perfume of their flowers, combine to make them objects of universal admiration. They require to be grown in a high temperature and. a very moist atmosphere. The more popular species are of quite recent introduction. -Slschyna'nthus. From aischuno, to be ashamed, and anthos, a flower. Nat. Ord. Gesneracew. A beautiful genus of tropical epiphytal plants. The species are chiefly found in tropical Asia and the East Indies, and may properly be classed with the most gorgeous green-house plants. They have mostly pendant stems, op- posite fleshy leaves, and scarlet or orange-scar- let flowers. One of the finer species, JE. spec- iosus is a native of Java. It is of sub-erect habit, with fascicles of about twenty erect, long-tubed flowers, of rich orange-yellow below and passing into scarlet at the top, with yel- low and black markings. JE. grandiflorus, has orange-scarlet flowers with a band of bright scarlet round the entrance of the tube. JE. longijlorus, with bright crimson and JE. Lobbianus, with scarlet flowers, both intro- duced from Java, are of the same general habit. All the species are admirably adapted for hanging baskets, and require to be grown in considerable heat and moisture. First in- troduced in 1845. HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS MS JE'sculus. Horse Chestnut, Buckeye. From esca, nourishment; referring to the ground flour from the kernels of some species. Nat. Ord. Sapindacem. A genus of hardy ornamental deciduous trees, too well known to need description. JE.Hippocastanum, the common Horse Chest- nut, is a native of Asia, introduced into our nurseries from Europe at an early day. 2E. glabra (Buckeye) is a large growing tree, com- mon South and "West, particularly in Ohio, whence the name Buckeye State. uS7. flava, the Sweet Buckeye, and 2E. pavia, the Bed Buckeye, are shrubs or small trees, natives of Virginia, and West and South. JE. Californica is a beautiful, large, spreading shrub, the most ornamental of the whole genus. Its flowers are rose-colored, in racemes about six inches long, and are produced in great abundance from June till July. All the species are prop- agated by seeds. See Pavia. .^Estivation. The manner of folding the calyx and corolla in the flower bud. JEthione'ma. From aitho, to scorch, and nema, a filament ; in reference to some burnt appear- ance in the stamens. Nat. Ord. Cruciferce. This is a beautiful genus of the Arabis family, but differs from the greater number of the Crucifers in light elegant habit and wiry stems, and usually glaucous leaves. They are mostly found on sunny mountains near the Mediter- ranean, particularly eastward, and are especi- ally valuable for gardens, forming stronger and more free-flowering tufts in cultivation than in a wild state. uSO. grandiflorum forms & spreading bush about a foot high, from which spring numerous racemes of pink and lilao flowers. It is a true perennial, growing well in the ordinary border, but from its prostrate, spreading habit, it is best adapted for the rock- garden, when the roots may descend into deep earth, and the stems fall gracefully over the rocks. The species are easily raised from seed, and thrive well in ordinary sandy loam. The best known kinds are JE. coridifolium, pul- chellum, and grandiflorum. JEthu'sa. Fool's Parsley. The name alludes to the acridity of the plants, and is derived from aithusso, to heat or make hot. Nat. Ord. Urn- belliferm. Quite a hardy species of little beauty. The stem and leaves of 2E. Cynapium, are poison- ous and contain a peculiar alkali called Cynopia. African Almond. Brabeium Stellatifolium. African Lily. See Agapanthus. African Lotus. Zizyphus Lotus. African Marigold. See Tagetes ereda. African Oak and Teak. Vitex Doniana. Aga'lmyla. From agalma, an ornament, and hute, a forest. Nat. Ord. Gesneracem. A small genus of beautiful green-house or hot- house plants from the islands of the Eastern Archipelago. A. staminea is a very handsome plant, epiphytal in habit, creeping and rooting on the trunks of trees. It has very strong stems, large, fleshy, Gloxinia-like leaves, and axillary fascicles of from twelve to fifteen flowers each, tubular-shaped, two inches long, bright scarlet. Propagated by cuttings. Agami'sia. From aganos, desirable ; in reference to the beauty of these neat little plants. Nat. AGA Ord. OrchidacecB. A. pulchella is a very pretty and rare orchid, a native of Demarara. It blossoms at different times of the year and lasts two or three weeks in perfection. The flowers are white, with a blotch of yellow in the centre of the lip. A. carulea, introduced from Brazil in 1876, has beautiful dark-blue flowers, the lip blotched with violet. They require a warm, moist temperature, and suc- ceed best when grown on blocks of wood or cork. Aganos' ma. From aganos, mild, and osme, scent of flowers. Nat. Ord. Apocynacece. A genua of shrubby climbing plants, with opposite leaves, and terminal corymbs of large funnel- shaped white, yellow, or purple flowers. Na- tives of India, they require a warm green- house and thrive best in a compost of loam, leaf-mould and sand. Propagated by cuttings. Agapan'thus. From agape, love, and anthos, a flower. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. The Blue African Lily, A. umbellatus, is a noble plant, with thick, fleshy roots, and re- tains its leaves all the winter. There is a variety with striped leaves. A. albidus has white flowers, but it does not differ from the common kind in any other respect. The Afri- can Lilies all require a loamy soil, enriched with rotted manure, and they should be fully exposed to the light. The plants are always large before they flower ; and when the flower- stalks appear, the plant should be in a large pot, so that the roots may have plenty of room. They should be abundantly supplied with water, taking care, however, not to let any remain in a stagnant state about the roots. Thus treated, this plant will frequent- ly send up a flower-stalk above three feet high, crowned with twenty or thirty flowers, which will open in succession. It flowers in sum- mer, and forms a noble ornament to an archi- tectural terrace, and is also a fine object on a lawn. Agape'tes. From agapetos, beloved, in refer- ence to the showy character of the plant. Nat. Ord. Vacciniacece. A genus of evergreen shrubs with alternate leathery leaves. Na- tives of India. Several species are in cultiva- tion, one of the best of which A. buxifolia, has beautiful bright red flowers about an inch long. It forms an interesting and effective green-house plant. Aga'ricus. Mushrooms. Derived from Agaria, the name of a town in Sarmatia. Nat. Ord. Fungi. This, the most extensive genus in the veg- etable kingdom, is divided into several groups. Some of the species are very beauti- ful in form and color. Many of them are poisonous and some of the species virulently so, while others notably A. campestris the common field Mushroom is not only edible, but is esteemed a great delicacy. See Mush- room. Agathae'a. Blue Daisy. From agathos, excel- lent ; in reference to the beauty of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Composite. A. ccelestis, a native of the Cape of Good Hope, is a neat green-house plant, somewhat resembling the Gazania in foliage and shape of flower. As it blooms profusely, and the color is a rare and beautiful shade of blue, which contrasts finely with the golden yellow AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 13 AGA disk, it is much valued as an ingredient in winter bouquets. It is a neat plant, and the peculiar color (mazarine blue) is very unusual in this class of plants. Propagated by cut- tings. A'gathophy'llum. Madagascar Nutmeg. From agathos, pleasant, and phyllon, a leaf. Nat. Ord. Lauracem. A. aromaticum is a warm green-house evergreen shrub of economic value only. The fruit is aromatic, but en- closes a kernel of an acrid, caustic taste, known as Madagascar Clove Nutmeg. Aga've. American Aloe. Century Plant. From agauos, admirable, referring to the stately form in which some of them flower. Nat. Ord. AmaryllidacecB. This genus is described by B. S. Wil- liams as follows: "They are noble, mas- sive growing plants, and form magnificent ornaments in the green-house or conserva- tory; whilst, from their slow growth they do not rapidly get too large, even for a small green-house. Indeed some of the real gems of this genus are neat, compact-growing plants, seldom exceeding two feet in height. Besides being fine ornamental plants for in- door decoration, the larger growing kinds are unquestionably the finest objects for the em- bellishment of terrace walks, or surmounting flights of steps in the open air during the sum- mer season, and also for plunging in rock- work, or about any rustic nooks in the pleas- ure grounds, as, in such situations, they are quite in keeping, and thrive admirably. As is well known, they attain maturity very slowly; but when this condition is reached, the plant sends up a flower-spike, and after perfecting this, dies." A number of the dwarf er growing species, such as A. applanata, A. attenuata, A. Celsiana, A.filifera, A. Salmiana. A. Victories Regina, and many others, are much used in sub-tropical gardening, and for bedding out on lawns, etc., during summer. A. Americana, is a splendid decorative plant, a native of South America introduced to cul- tivation in 1640. The varieties with striped foliage are considered the most desirable as ornamental plants. It was at one time a pre- vailing idea that this plant only flowered once in a hundred years ; but this is found now to be a popular error. If given sufficient heat, it will flower when ten or twelve years old. The flower stem rises from the center of the plant to a height of about thirty feet, bearing an immense number of yellowish-green flowers, after perfecting which the plant perishes. New plants are formed around the base of the old one in the form of suckers. It furnishes a variety of products ; the plants form impen etrable fences; the leaves furnish fibers of various qualities, from that used in the finest thread to that in the strongest rope cables ; the juice, when the watery part is evaporated, forms a good soap, and will mix and form a lather with salt water as well as fresh ; a very intoxicating drink is also made from the juice, as well as other preparations of a similar nature; the leaves are made into razor- strops, and are also used in scouring all sorts of culinary utensils. Over one hundred spe- cies have been described, but according to Bentham and Hooker, not over fifty are suf- ficiently distinct to rank as such. They are AGR distributed over South America, Mexico, and the Southern States. Agera'tum. From a not, and geras, old; in reference to the flowers being always clear. Nat. Ord. Compositor. A. Mexicanum, the type of this genus is a well known occupant of our flower borders. It bears a profusion of lilac- blue flowers all season, and is very useful for cutting. Several very dwarf varieties of it have originated under cultivation which are very useful in ribbon and carpet bedding. A variegated form is also cultivated for its pretty foliage. Syn. Cozlestina. Agglomerate. Collected into a heap or head. Aglai'a. From Aglaia, one of the Graces. Nat. Ord. Meliacem. A genus of evergreen trees or shrubs, hav- ing very small flowers, borne in axillary pani- cles. The leaves are showy and finely divided. It contains about nineteen species, natives of China, and the Malay and Pacific Islands. A. odorata has small yellow flowers, very sweet- scented, said to be used by the Chinese to scent their teas. Aglamo'rpha. From aglaos, beautiful, and mor- pha, a form. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. A. Meyeniana, the only species, is a beauti- ful herbaceous Fern, a native of the Philip- pine Islands. It is propagated by division or from spores, and requires the same treatment as Polypodium, under which genus it is in- cluded by some authors. Aglaone'ma. From aglaos, bright, and nema, a thread ; supposed to refer to the shining sta- mens. Nat. Ord. Aroideoz. A genus of stove-house plants, allied to Arum, with entire leaves and white fragrant flowers. Agnes, St., Flower. See Leucojum. Agno'stus. A synonym of Stenocarpus, which see. Ago'nis. From agon, a gathering, a collection ; in allusion to the number of the seeds. Nat. Ord. Myrtacew. A genus of evergreen shrubs or small trees, natives of Western Australia. The flowers are white, rather small, in dense globose axil- lary, or terminal heads. The species are still rare in cultivation, and will undoubtedly prove hardy south of Washington. Propagated by cuttings. Agrimo'nia. Agrimony. A corruption of Arge- mone. Nat. Ord. Rosacea. A small genus of yellow-flowered, weedy plants, common throughout the United States. The larger flowered, or common Agrimony, is a native of Europe, but has become pretty generally naturalized. They are plants of but little interest. Agroste'mma. Rose Campion. From agros, a field, and stemma, a crown ; referring to the beauty of the flower. Nat. Ord. Caryophyl- lacecB. A. coronaria is a hardy perennial, introduced from Russia in 1834. Suitable for border plants, their showy white and red flowers con- trasting finely with shrubbery. Propagated by division of roots or by seeds. A. cozli-rosea, or Rose of Heaven, is a favorite annual spe- cies, with delicate rose, white or purple flow- ers. It should be grown in groups. 11 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS AGR Agro'stis. Bent Grass, Red Top. This is the Greek name for all grasses, from agros, a field. Nat. Ord. Graminacece. A well-known genus of grasses, including A. canina, the Rhode Island Bent Grass; A. 8tolonifera, the Creeping Bent Grass, and A. vulgaris, the common Red Top. These species have all been introduced from Europe, but are now thoroughly naturalized in this country. A. pulchella and A. nebulosa are both very del- icate, feather-like annual grasses, valuable for bouquet-making and for winter decorative purposes. Ague Root. A common name for Aletrisfarinosa. Ague Tree. Laurus Sassafras. Ague Weed, Indian. Eupatorium perfoliatum. Aila'ntus. From ailanto, Tree of Heaven, refer- ring to its lofty growth. Nat. Ord. Xantho- xylacea. Deciduous trees of rapid growth, natives of China. They were at one time extensively planted as street trees, and should not now be so generally discarded, as they will thrive well in cities and barren soils, making a beautiful shade tree, as well as valuable timber. The only objection that has ever been made to them is the unpleasant odor of their flowers. That objection can be easily avoided. This tree is dioecious, and is rapidly increased by root-cuttings. By taking cuttings from the female plant, the flowers of which are inodor- ous, they can be increased to any extent. Ai'ra. Hair Grass. The Hair Grass is named from the Greek, and signifies to destroy ; but why it has received this unwelcome name is apparently uncertain. Nat. Ord. GraminacecB. There are several species common to this country and Europe. A. cozspitosa is typical of the genus, a very handsome Grass, the flowers of which are well adapted for decoration, being very graceful. It will flourish in almost any situation, but prefers damp fields, where it forms large tufts, known as "hassocks," and as it is not eaten by cattle except when nothing else can be procured, a field in which it abounds has a singularly unsightly, and to farmers un- welcome appearance. Air Plants. These are plants that grow on trees, or other objects, and not in the earth, deriving their nutriment from the atmosphere. The term was formerly, and is still to some extent, applied to epiphytal Orchids. There are, however, many other families of air plants. The class is to be distinguished from the various parasites that have no roots in the earth, but derive their nourishment di- rectly from the plants on which they grow. Aito'nia. In honor of W. Aiton, once Head Gardener at Kew. Nat. Ord. Meliacem. A small and interesting evergreen shrub from the Cape of Good Hope, bearing pink flowers. Introduced in 1777. A'jax. A subdivision of the genus Narcissus, including the common Daffodil, and other spe- cies having a long trumpet-shaped coronet to the flowers. Aju'ga. Bugle. From o, privative, and zugon, a yoke ; in reference to the calyx being one- leaved. Nat. Ord. Labiatce. A small genus of hardy annual and peren- nial herbaceous plants. A. reptans (common Bugle) has been introduced into the garden, ALE and given a position in massing and ribbon borders of plants for its dark-colored foliage. The species were at one time highly esteemed for the medicinal properties they were sup- posed to possess. "Ruellus writeth that they commonly said in France, howe he needeth neither physician nor surgeon that hathe Bugle and Sanicle, for it not only cureth woundes, being inwardly taken, but also applied to them outwardly." — Gerarde. They are propagated readily from seed. Akaz'za. The name of an ordeal poison used in the Gaboon country, supposed to be the product of a species of Strychnos. Ake'bia. The name it bears in Japan. Nat. Ord. Lardizabalacem. A. quinata was introduced from China, in 1844, by Robert Fortune. It is a hardy climber, of rapid growth, suitable for large arbors or trellises, in sunny or shady situa- tions. It will twine around old trees, com- pletely covering the branches, from which it will hang in graceful festoons. The color of the flower is dark brown, and it is very sweet- scented. In a light, rich soil it will grow to the height of thirty feet. It is propagated readily by layering or cuttings. Alatus. Furnished with a thin wing or expan- sion. Albi'zzia. Named after an Italian. Nat. Ord. Leguminosai. A small genus of ornamental green-house plants, very like Acacias, to which they are often referred. The plant so well known as Acacia lophantha is placed under this genus. Aibu'ca. From albus, white, referring to the prevalence of white flowers in the genus (not a very happy allusion, though, because the flowers are mostly green). Nat. Ord. Liliacece. This is a genus of but little beauty, closely allied to the Ornitkogalum, introduced from the Cape of Good Hope about 1750. They are tender bulbous plants, easily cultivated in the green-house, grown in pots in light, sandy soil. They flower in May and June. Albumen. The matter that is interposed be- tween the skin of a seed and the embryo. It is of a farinaceous, oily or horny con- sistency, and surrounds the embryo wholly or in part, and affords nourishment to the young plant during the earliest stages of germination. Alburnum. The white and softer part of wood, between the inner bark and heart- wood, com- monly known as sap-wood; the young wood before it comes to a proper consistence. Alchemi'lla. A genus of herbaceous annual or perennial plants, belonging to the natural or- der Rosacea,. All the species have lobed leaves and inconspicuous yellow or greenish flowers. A. vulgaris, the common Lady's Mantle, is fre- quent in English woods and wet pastures. Alder. See Alnus. Alder, Black. The popular name for Prinos vertidllata. Alder, Red. Cunonia Capensis. Alder, "White. The popular name for Clethra alnifolia. Ale-cost. An old English name for Pyrethrum Tanacetum, commonly known as Bateamita vul- garis, the Costmary of Gardens. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 15 ALF Ale'tris. Colic-root, Star-grass. From aletron, meal ; referring to the powdery appearance of the whole plant. Nat. Ord. Hwmodoraceae. There are but two species included in this genus, both natives of the United States, and pretty generally distributed. A. farinosa is highly esteemed for its medicinal properties, and is a very pretty plant for the border. It is a herbaceous perennial, the leaves growing in a close tuft, from which arises a flower-stem from one to three feet high, terminating in a spiked raceme of small, white, oblong, bell- shaped flowers. Propagated by division or by seeds. Aleuri'tes. From the Greek word, signifying flour, all the parts of the plant seeming to be dusted with it. Nat. Ord. Euphorbiacece. A. triloba is a handsome evergreen tree, with small white clustered flowers. It is a native of the Moluccas and the Southern Pacific Islands, andis commonlycultivated in tropical countries for the sake of its nuts, which, when dried, are stuck on a reed and used as candles, and as an ai-ticle of food in New Georgia. It is of easy culture, and is propagated freely by cut- tings. Aleurito'pteris. A genus of Ferns, now joined with Cheilanthes. Alfalfa or Lucerne (Medicago Sativa). Though this has been a favorite forage plant in some parts of the Old World for hundreds of years, it is not surprising that in a country so wide- spread and diversified as the United States, a crop that is so valued in some localities is un- known in others. The great value of Alfalfa is in its enormous yield of sweet and nutritious forage, which is highly relished by stock either when green or cured into hay. It will grow and yield abun- dantly in hot, dry sections, and on poor, light and sandy land, where no grasses can be grown, for it sends its roots down to enormous depths, they having been found in sandy soil 13 feet long ; consequently it con- sumes food, moisture, and the leach of fer- tilizers from depths entirely beyond the action of drought or heat, and which have been for years beyond the reach of ordinary plants. Alfalfa greatly enriches the soil even more than ordinary Clovers, as it derives a very large portion of nutritive material from the atmosphere. It aerates the land to a great depth, and a large portion of its great fleshy roots, equalling small carrots in size, annually decay from the outside and keep growing larger from the center, and are constantly increasing the fertility of the ground. Alfalfa is not considered perfectly hardy in our more Northern States, yet experiments made by some of our Northern Agricultural Experimental Stations prove it of more value North than previously supposed. The soil best suited for the growth of Alfalfa is that which is deep and sandy ; hence the soil of Florida and many other portions of the cotton belt is eminently fitted for its culture. When Alfalfa is to be grown on a large scale, to get at the best results, the ground chosen should be high and level, or if not high, such as is entirely free from under water. Drainage must be as nearly perfect as possible — either naturally or artificially. This in fact is a primary necessity for every crop — unless it be such as is aquatic or sub-aquatic. ALF Deep plowing, thorough harrowing and level- ing with that valuable implement, the "smooth- ing harrow," to get a smooth and level surface, are the next operations. This should be done in the Southern States from 1st to 20th October — or at such season in the fall as would be soon enough to ensure a growth of four or five inches before the season of growth stops. Draw out lines on the prepared land twenty inches apart (if for horse culture, but if for hand culture fourteen inches), and two or three inches deep. These lines are best made by what market gardeners call a "marker," which is made by nailing six tooth-shaped pickets six or eight inches long at the required distance apart to a three by four inch joist, to which a handle is attached — which makes the marker or drag. The first tooth is set against a garden line drawn tight across the field, the marker is dragged back- wards by the workman, each tooth marking a line ; thus the six teeth mark six lines, if the line is set each time ; but it is best to place the end tooth of the marker in a line already made, so that in this way only five lines are marked at once, but it is quicker to do this than move the line. The lines being marked out, the seed is sown by hand or by seed-drill, at the rate of eight to twelve pounds per acre. After sowing — and this rule applies to all seeds if sown by hand — the seed must be trodden in by walking on the lines, so as to press the seed down into the drills. After treading in, the ground must be levelled by raking with a wooden or steel rake along the lines length- ways— not across. That done, it would be ad- vantageous to use a roller over the land so as to smooth the surface and further firm the seed, but this is not indispensable. When seeds are drilled in by machine, the wheel presses down the soil on the seed, so that treading in with the feet is not necessary. After the seeds germinate so as to show the rows, which will be in from two to four weeks, according to the weather, the ground must be hoed between, and this is best done by some light wheel-hoe, if by hand, such as the "Planet, Jr." On light sandy soil, such as in Florida, a man could with ease run over two or three acres per day. The labor entailed in this method of sowing Alfalfa in drills is somewhat greater than when sown broadcast in the usual way of grasses and clover, but there is no question that it is by far the best and most profitable plan, for it must be remem- bered that the plant is a hardy perennial, and is good for a crop for eight to ten years. More- over, the sowing in drills admits of the crop being easily fertilized, if it is found necessary to do so ; as all that is necessary is to sow bone dust, superphosphates, or other concentrated fertilizer between the rows, and then stir it into the soil by the use of the wheel-hoe. Because Alfalfa flourishes on poor and worn out lands, it should not be thought unadapted to good soils. In the latter, its yield almost exceeds belief. At the New Jersey State farm, seed of it sown, April 28th, in drills, and the plants cultivated, had grown forty inches tall, when cut on July 7th, 70 days from sow- ing, yielding (green) 1%, tons per acre; the second cutting made on August 18th, yielded (green) 8%, tons per acre ; the third cutting was made September 27th, and yielded (green) 4^- tons per acre ; a total of 20 tons of green 16 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS ALG fodder per acre the first year sown, which would equal at least five tons of cured hay. If sown on light, dry soils during a dry spell, or if sown broadcast, not much, if any, crop can be expected the first year, as the roots have to get a vigorous hold of the soil ; the second year it can (if sown under such conditions) be cut two or three times, but it is not until the third year that it develops into full vigor, and after that it yields magnificent crops for ten or fifteen years. Alfalfa will not flourish on land where water stands a short distance below the surface, nor in heavy, sticky clays. It attains its highest perfection on mellow, well-drained or rolling land where water readily passes away. A'lgse. A large and important tribe of Crypto- gamia, the greater part of which live either in salt or fresh water. They are related on the one hand to Funguses, and on the other to Lichens their distinctive characters being more easily derived from their respective habits, than from differences of structure. Some of the species, as the Dulse and Pepper Dulse, are edible and are used in Britain as a condiment, while the Carrageen or Irish Moss, besides its value in cattle-feeding when boiled and mixed with other nutritious matters, forms an excellent dessert something like curds when boiled in milk. Algce, best known as "Sea-weed," have long been used as manure by the farmers along the coasts of Long Island, New England, etc., im- mense quantities being thrown ashore in the fall of the year. It is generally composted with barn yard manure and is often used as a covering for Strawberries and Asparagus for winter. Algaro'ba Bean, or Carob. The fruit of Cer- atonia Siliqua, which see. Alha'gi. The Arabic name of the plant. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A small genus of shrubby plants, with simple leaves and spiny flower-stalks, inhabit- ing Southern Asia and Western Africa. A manna-like substance is produced from some of these plants in Persia and Bokhara, and is collected by merely shaking the branches. The secretion is supposed by some to be iden- tical with the Manna by which the Israelites were miraculously fed. Ali'sma. Water Plantain. A. Plantago var. Americana, is a native aquatic with small white or rose-colored flowers, arranged in a loose, compound, many-flowered panicle. Alisma'ceae. A small order of aquatic or marsh plants, with three-petaled flowers, on leafless scapes, and simple, radical leaves. The genera best known are Alisma, Butomus and Sagit- taria. A'lkanet, or Hoary Puccoon. The common name of Lithospermum canescens ; also, a name applied to the roots of Anchusa tinctoria, ex- tensively used as a dye, which is also called "alkanet." Allama'nda. Named in honor of Dr. Allamand, of Leyden. Nat. Ord. Apocynacem. This genus consists principally of handsome climbing green-house shrubs. A. Schottii, a native of Brazil, produces immense numbers of large, funnel-shaped flowers, which are of a full yellow, with a deeper yellow throat. A. ALO nobilis, A. Chelsoni and other species are all most desirable flowering plants for green- house decoration. They delight in a warm, moist situation, and should have a light, fibrous soil. Propagated by cuttings. First introduced from Brazil in 1846. Allanto'dia. From allantos, a sausage ; in refer- ence to the cylindrical form of the indusium. A genus of Ferns now reduced to one species, A. Brunoniana, which is a very pretty plant, with fronds one to two feet in length. It is a native of the Himalayas, at an elevation of 6,000 feet, and is of easy culture in the green- house. Syn. Asplenium Javanicum. Alleghany Vine. See Adlumia. All-Heal. Valeriana officinalis. Alligator Apple. See Anona palustris. Alligator Pear. See Persea gratissima. Alligator "Wood. The timber of Guarea grandi- folia, a West Indian tree. A'llium. From the Celtic all, meaning hot or burning ; referring to the well-known qualities of the genus. Nat. Ord. LiliacecB. Of the one hundred and fifty species of this tribe, but few are considered ornamental ; in- deed, the family, probably from prejudice, has been much neglected, where many far less showy plants have found favor. A. Moly pro- duces large trusses of golden yellow flowers in June. A. Neapolitanum is a fine species, bearing pure white flowers in a large umbel. The former is perfectly hardy, and worthy a place in the garden. The latter is tender, re- quiring the protection of the green-house. Propagated readily by offsets. The various species of Allium, as Onion, Leek, Garlic, Chives, etc., are described under their respective names. Allople'ctus. A small genus of interesting green-house shrubs, belonging to the order GesneracecB, and requiring the same treatment. Alloso'rus. From alios, diverse, and soros, a heap ; in allusion to the changing of the sori. Nat. Ord. Polypodiaceoe. A small genus of very beautiful dwarf Ferns. A. crispus, a British Fern, sometimes called the Mountain Parsley Fern, is a beautiful plant for rockeries. Two or three exotic spe- cies are favorites in the green-house. They are propagated from spores. Allspice. Carolina. Calycanthus floridm. Allspice-Tree. See Pimenta. Almond. See Amygdalus communis. Almond, Double-Flowering, Dwarf. Amyg- dalus nana, which see. Almond, Earth or Chufa. Cyperus esculentus. Al'nus. The Alder. From al, near, and Ian, the bank of a river ; in reference to the situation where the Alder delights to grow. Nat. Ord. Betulacem. An extensive genus of shrubs or small trees common throughout North America and Europe. The principal use of the Alder is for charcoal, which is highly valued in the manu- facture of gunpowder. Aloca'sia. A slight alteration of Colocasia. Nat. Ord. Aroidem. This name is applied to a section of the genus Colocasia; by some considered a distinct genus. Natives of India, the Indian Archi- AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 17 ALO pelago, &c. A. metallica is a magnificent spe- cies from Borneo, producing very large oval leaves, having a rich bronze-colored surface, making it a conspicuous ornament for the hot- house. The leaves look like large polished metal shields. Many other species, some of them of great beauty, with large and hand- somely variegated, usually peltate, leaves, are highly-prized occupants of our plant stoves. A'loe. From alloeh, its Arabic name. Nat. Ord. IAliacece. The name Aloe is so frequently applied in conversation to the American Aloe, or Agave, that many persons are not aware that the true Aloe is not only quite a different genus, but belongs to a different natural order, the Amer- ican Aloe being one of the Amaryllis tribe, while the true Aloe belongs to the Lily tribe. The qualities of the two plants are also essen- tially different, the American Aloe abounding in starchy, nourishing matter, while every part of the true Aloe is purgative. The true Aloe also flowers every year, and the flowers are tube-shaped, and produced on a spike ; while each plant of the American Aloe flowers but once, sending up an enormous flower-stem with candelabra-like branches and cup-shaped flowers. The true Aloes are succulent plants, natives of the Cape of Good Hope, and grow best in this country in green-houses or rooms, in a light, sandy soil. To this, when the plants are wanted to attain a large size, may be added a little leaf-mould. When grown in rooms, a poor soil is, however, preferable, as it keeps the plants of a smaller and more manageable size, and makes them less easily affected by changes of temperature. The colors of the flowers will also be richer when the plants are grown in poor soil. The drug called aloes is made principally from the pulp of the fleshy leaf of the A. socotrina, the flowers of which are red, tipped with green ; but it is also made from several other species. A'loe, Partridge-Breast. Aloe tariegata. A'loe, Pearl. Aloe margaritifera. A'loes-Wood. See Aquilaria. Alo'na. From nola, a little bell (letters trans- posed) ; in allusion to the shape of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Nolanaceos. A genus of pretty evergreen shrubs, A. Coe- lestis, has pale-blue, large flowers ; an excel- lent plant for growing out-of-doors during summer. Propagated by cuttings. Intro- duced from Chili in 1845. Alonso'a. The Mask Flower. Named after Za- nomi Alonso, a Spaniard, by the authors of Flora Peruviana. Nat. Ord. (Scrophulariacew. The species are low under-shrubs, or herba- ceous plants, natives of Peru, and two of them — A. incisifolia and A. linearis — are very orna- mental, either in the green-house or grown as annuals in the open border during summer. They thrive well in any light, rich soil, and are readily increased by seeds or cuttings. They are very desirable for flower-gardens, on account of the brilliant scarlet of their flow- ers ; and where there is no green-house, the plants should be raised from seeds sown on a hot-bed in February, or struck from cuttings early in spring, and brought forward in a frame or pit, and turned out into the open air in May. Alopecu'rus. The generic name of the Foxtail Grass ALS Aloy'sia. Lemon Verbena. Named in honor of Maria Louisa, Queen of Spain. Nat. Ord. Ver- benacece. The only known species of this genus is A. citriodora, introduced from Chili in 1784, and formerly called Verbena triphylla, or the Lemon- scented Verbena. Under this name it is gen- erally sold, and is a universal favorite, readily propagated from cuttings, and planted in the open border in May. If taken up after a light frost and put in a cold frame or cool cellar during winter, the plants will keep well ; and, planted out in spring again, they make large and pleasing shrubs. The leaves, when dried, will retain their odor for many years. Syn. Lippia citriodora. Alphabet-plant. Spilanthes acmella. A'lpine. Strictly speaking, this term refers to the higher part of the Alps, in contradistinc- tion to "mountainous," which designates the middle portion of the higher Alps, or tops of inferior mountains. Plants found in very high elevations are called Alpine Plants. Alpine Azalea. The popular name for Loisleu- ria procumbens. A'lpine Plants. This very interesting class con- sists mostly of plants natives of high elevations, and, although they are naturally exposed to the full influence of the sun and wind, they require in our hot, dry summers shade and and shelter more than exposure. Wherever a Rock Garden or Rockery is constructed, a portion of it should be devoted to the culture of Alpines, for as a rule they flourish better on a properly-constructed Rockery than in any other position, because thorough drainage is effected, and the long, fine roots can run down in the crevices where the soil is cool and moist. It should, however, be so arranged that all aspects are secured, shady and sunny, fully, or in a degree only. Many Alpines are easily grown in the ordinary border in a sheltered, well-drained situation. Excavate to the depth of eighteen inches, put in a layer of stones or rubble six inches deep, and fill up with a mixture of good fibrous loam and leaf- mould, adding sand enough to keep it porous. When the desired subjects are firmly planted, the surface may be covered with small stones or rough gravel, which, while allowing the rain to penetrate the soil, checks evaporation, keeping it moist and cool, as well as giving the surface an appearance more in keeping with the plants. Alpi'nia. In memory of Prosper Alpinus, an Italian botanist. Nat. Ord. Zingiberacea,. A genus of tropical herbaceous perennials, mostly natives of the East Indies, requiring to be grown in great heat and moisture. A. vittata is an ornamental- leaved species of small growth. The plant throws up numerous stems from the underground rhizomes, bear- ing lance-shaped leaves, pale green in color, striped with creamy white. A. alba bears a fruit known as Ovoid China Cardamoms ; others, as A. nutans, are remarkable for the exceeding beauty of their flowers. They are increased by division of their roots. Alseuo'smia. From alsos, a grove, and euosmia, a grateful odor ; alluding to the powerful fra- grance of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Caprifoliacece. A small genus of highly-glabrous shrubs, with greenish or red flowers, and generally 18 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS ALS alternate leaves. A. Macrophylla, the only species yet introduced to cultivation, has small, very fragrant, dull-red flowers, some- times streaked with white. It forms a neat green-house shrub, and is propagated by cut- tings of the half-ripened wood. Introduced from New Zealand in 1884. Alsike. See Trifolium hybridum. Also'phila. From alsos, a grove, and phileo, to love ; in reference to the situation best suited to the plants. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. This genus contains some of our most beau- tiful green-house Tree Ferns. A. Australia, the type, is a native of Australia, and one of the most ornamental of the order. In the or- dinary green-house it thrives finely, produc- ing its graceful fronds from three to four feet long and one and a half wide. There are sev- eral species, all tropical, and all worthy a place in the fern-house. They are increased by division or from spores. Introduced in 1833. Alstrceme'ria. In honor of Baron Alstrcemer, a Swedish botanist. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. This is a genus of tuberous-rooted plants, with beautiful flowers, natives of South Amer- ica, and capable of being grown to a high de- gree of perfection in the hot-house, green- house or open air, according to the species. The soil which suits all the Alstrcemerias is a mixture of sandy loam and leaf-mould, or well-rotted manure. Of all the hot-house species, A. Ligtu, with white and scarlet flow- ers, is the most difficult tc flower ; but by giv- ing it abundance of water during th6 summer, and a strong heat in December, it will flower in February ; and one plant will scent a whole house with fragrance like that of Mignonette. A. edulis is another hot-house species, which climbs to the height of ten or twelve feet, and, like all other climbers, thrives best when turned out into the open border. Propagation is effected by separation of the tubers, or by seeds ; the latter is apt to produce new varieties, as they are by no means constant from seed. Alternanthe'ra. Alluding to the anthers being alternately fertile and barren. Nat. Ord. Amaranthaceat. This useful little green-house perennial for ribbon beds and edgings is a native of Buenos Ayres, introduced in 1732. Propagated read- ily from cuttings. The variegated-leaved varieties, of which new and striking sorts are constantly being introduced, alone are culti- tivated, the flowers being inconspicuous. A recent variety, A. paronychioides major, is now known as the Rainbow-plant. Alternate. Placed on opposite sides of an axis, on a different level, as in alternate leaves. Althae'a. Marsh Mallow. From altheo, to cure ; in reference to its medicinal qualities. Nat. Ord. Malvaceae. There are many annuals in this family, some of them of much merit. The Marsh Mallows are hardy perennials, and formerly much used as border plants. A. rosea, the common Hollyhock, is one of our most splen- did ornamental biennials. It grows to the height of from five to eight feet, and there are varieties of almost every color, including white, and purple so deep as to be almost AMA black. The seeds of the Hollyhock, should be sown in March or April. When the plants come up, they should be thinned out, and then suffered to remain till September, when they should be transplanted to the place where they are to flower. Introduced from China in 1573. The hardy shrub commonly known as Althaea, is Hibiscus Syriacus. Alum Root. The common name of Heuchera Americana, the roots of which are very as- tringent. Aly'ssum. Derived from a, privative, and lyssa, rage ; from a notion among the ancients that the plant possessed the power of allaying an- ger. Nat. Ord. Cruciferm. Dwarf hardy perennials, or sub-shrubby plants, with cruciferous flowers. A. saxatile is very suitable for rock-work, or the front part of a flower border, and forms a beautiful spring-blooming bed in the flower garden. Flowers produced in large clusters, of a deep, pure yellow. It is increased by cuttings and seeds. The herbaceous species are propa- gated by division, the sub-shrubby ones by cuttings. Vigorous two-year-old plants are the best for flowering ; the others are unim- portant. The plant commonly called Sweet Alyssum is not of this genus ; it is Koniga maritima, which see. Amarabo'ya. The native name. Nat. Ord. Melastomacew. A small genus (three species) of evergreen shrubs, natives of New Grenada. The branches are thick, bluntly four-angled, with large, prominently nerved leaves, green above and reddish-carmine beneath. The white or carmine flowers are borne in terminal cymes, and are very showy. Introduced in 1887. Amaxantha'ceae. An extensive order of herbs or (rarely) shrubs with inconspicuous apetal- ous flowers, almost in all cases of a scarious or shrivelled texture. The majority of this order are weeds, though many of the species of Amaranthus and Gomphrena (Globe Ama- ranth) are beautiful border plants and are well known. Amaranth Globe. See Gomphrena. Amara'nthus. Amaranth. Derived from a, not, and miaraino, to wither ; in reference to the length of time some flowers retain their color. Nat. Ord. Amaranthaceoz. Ornamental foliaged plants, of an extremely graceful and interesting character, producing a striking effect, whether grown for the deco- ration of the conservatory or the out-door flower garden. If the seeds are sown early in a warm hot-bed and planted out the last of May or in June, in rich soil, they make ex- ceedingly handsome specimens for the center of beds, or mixed flower or shrubbery bor- ders. Most of the varieties are natives of the East Indies, and were introduced into Eng- land about 1600. The well-known A. tricolor, or "Joseph's Coat," is one of the most beautiful of ornamental-leaved plants. A. caudatus, "Love lies Bleeding," is another showy spe- cies, and A. salicifolius, "The Fountain Plant," makes a lovely specimen for lawn decoration or for the centre of a " foliage bed." Amaryllida'ceae. A large Natural Order, con- sisting for the most part of bulbous plants, but occasionally forming a tall, cylindrical, woody stem, as in the genus Agave. They AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 19 AMA differ from Irises in having six introrse sta- mens, and from Liliaceous plants in their ovary being inferior. A few species of Nar- cissus and Galanthus are found in the north of Europe and the same parallels. As we pro- ceed south they increase. Pancratium ap- pears on the shores of the Mediterranean, and on our own Southern coasts ; Crinum and Pancratium in the West and East Indies ; Hwmanthus is found for the first time, with some of the latter, on the Gold Coast ; Hip- peastra show themselves in countless num- bers in Brazil and across the whole continent of South America ; and, finally, at the Cape of Good Hope the maximum of the order is be- held in all the beauty of Hmmanthus, Crinum, Clivia, Cyrtanthus and Brunsvigia. A few are found in New Holland, the most remarkable of which is Doryanthes. Poisonous properties occur in the viscid juice of the bulbs of Bu- phane toxicaria and Hippeastrum; those of Leucojum vernum, the Snowdrop, and Daffodil and other kinds of Narcissus, are emetic. Nevertheless, the Agave, or American Aloe, as it is called, has an insipid, sweet juice. Others are detergent, and a few yield a kind of arrow-root. Between 300 and 400 species are known. Amary'llis. The name of a nymph celebrated by the poet Virgil. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. Bulbous plants, chiefly natives of the Cape of Good Hope and South America, but which have been increased in number tenfold by hy- brids and varieties raised in England and on the Continent. All the kinds are eminently ornamental, and they are all of easy culture, the great secret being to give them alternately a season of excitement and a season of re- pose. To do this effectually, the plants should be abundantly supplied with water and heat, and placed near the glass when they are coming into flower, and water should be withheld from them by degrees when they have done flowering, till they have entirely ceased growing, when they should be kept quite dry and in a state of rest. When in this state they may be placed in any obscure part of a green-house where it is dry, and of a tem- perature not under forty or fifty degrees. If kept in such a situation during winter, some iinds may be turned out into a warm border in spring, where they will flower ; and if the season be fine, they will renew their bulbs in time to be taken up before the approach of frost. The chief value of these plants, how- ever, is to produce flowers in the winter sea- son which they readily do if they are kept •dry and dormant during the latter part of the summer and autumn. Indeed, by having a large stock of these bulbs, a regular succes- sion of flowers may be procured during every month in the year. When the dormant bulbs are intended to be brought into flower, they should be freshly potted in sandy loam and leaf-mould, and put in a hot-house or hot- bed, the heat beginning at fifty degrees, and ascending to sixty or seventy degrees; and when the leaves appear, they should be abundantly supplied with water. Where seeds are wanted the watering must be con- tinued, though somewhat less abundantly, after the flowers have faded, till the seeds are ripe; and when these are gathered, they ought to be sown immediately in light, sandy loam, AMH and placed in a frame, or near the glass, in a moist part of the hot-house. If the young plants are potted off as soon as they are an inch or two in height, and shifted frequently in the course of the growing season, they will attain a flowering size in from fifteen to twenty months. The pots in which these and all other bulbs are grown ought to be thoroughly drained by a handful or more of potsherds (broken pots) laid in the bottom of each pot, and covered with turfy loam, and the mould used should also be turfy, in order the more freely to admit the passage of water. Our long and warm summers enable us to culti- vate many of these beautiful bulbs in the open air, merely protecting the roots in the winter in the same manner as those of the Dahlia. See Hippeastrum. Amary'llis formosissima. kelia, which see. A synonym of Spre- Amaso'nia, Named in honor of Thomas Ama- son, an American traveller. Nat. Ord. Ver- benacem. A genus of South American shrubs found chiefly in Brazil ; closely allied to Cler- odendron, from which they differ chiefly in habit. A. calycina, better known as A. puni- cea, is particularly striking, in having a series of the richest Poinsettia-like, vermilion-crim- son, spreading bracts, arranged along the en- tire length of the racemes, which are a foot long. These bracts are four inches in length, and remain in pei'fection fully two months. Syn. Taligalea. Ambro'sia. The botanical name of Ragweed, Bitterweed, etc. Amela'nchier. June Berry, Shad Berry, Ser- vice Berry. From Amelanchier, the popular name of one of the species in Savoy. Nat. Ord. Rosacea. A. Canadensis (the only American species) and its numerous varieties are low trees, com- mon in the woods in the Northern States, re- markable for their numerous white flowers, which appear about the middle of April, com- pletely covering the tree before the foliage or flowers of the neighboring trees have com- menced their growth. The foliage resembles that of the Pear, and changes to a bright yel- low in autumn. The fruit is a dark-purple berry, ripe in July or August, and has an agreeable flavor. American Aloe. Agave Americana, which see. American Centaury. The popular name for Sabbatia. American Columbo. See Frasera Carolinensis. American American carpus. American American American American American Cowslip. See Dodecaiheon Meadia. Cranberry. See Oxy coccus macro- Cress. Barbarea precox. Frog s Bit. IAmnobium spongia. Ivy. Ampelopsis quinquefolia. Pitcher Plant. See Sarracenia. Wood Lily. See Trillium. Amhe'rstia. In honor of the Rt. Hon. Countess Amherst and her daughter Lady Sarah Amherst ; the zealous friends and promoters of every branch of natural history, but espe- cially of Botany. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. A. nobilis, the only species is an East Indian tree, said to be one of the most magnificent 20 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS AMI blooming trees in existence, bearing in Spring large racemes of vermilion-colored flowers diversified with three yellow spots. The Burmanese name of the plant is Thoca, and handful s of the flowers are offered before the images of Buddha. The tree is to be found in some of the larger English collections ; but requiring so much space it is rarely grown. Ami'cia. This pretty Leguminous green-house perennial is valuable on account of its flower- ing late in the fall. Flowers yellow splashed with purple, branches and petioles pubescent. Introduced from Mexico in 1826. Ammo'bium. From ammos, sand, and bio, to live ; in reference to the sandy soil in which it thrives. Nat. Ord. Composite. Pretty annuals of hardy character from New Holland, producing white everlasting flowers. The seed may be sown in the open border, in almost any situation, between the middle of March and the end of May. Ammobro'ma. From ammos, sand, and bromos, food ; a name given by Dr. Torrey to a leaf- less plant of parasitic habit, native of Northern Mexico. The plant has the habit of an Oro- banche, the scaly roots being buried in the sand, its roots parasitic on the roots of an unknown plant. Colonel Grey, the original discoverer of this plant met with it in the country of the Papigo Indians, a barren, sandy waste, where rain scarcely ever falls but "where Nature has provided for the sustenance of man, one of the most nutritious and palatable of vege- tables." The plant is roasted upon hot coals, and ground with mesquit beans and resem- bles in taste the sweet potato, " but is far more delicate." Ammo'charis. A genus of Amaryllidacece, usu- ally included in Brunsvigia. Ammo'phila. Beach Grass. From ammos, sand, and phileo, to love ; in allusion to its native habitat. Nat. Ord. Graminacea,. A genus of coarse growing, reed-like grasses common on the sea-shores of this country and Europe. A. arundinacea, Syn. Calamagrostis Arenaria, is the best known species; as an agricultural grass it is of no value, but its value as a natural sand-builder cannot be over- estimated ; many thousand acres of land on various parts of our coast are preserved from being overwhelmed with the drifting sand solely by its agency. It seems to have been provided for this special purpose, having very strong rhizomes, or creeping roots, from 30 to 40 feet long, with many small tubers, about the size of peas, which prevent the drifting of the sand from the action of the wind and waves thus forming a barrier against the en- croachments of the ocean. In speaking of the importance of this grass in protecting our coasts, Flint, in his book on grasses says,— "The town of Province town, once called Cape Cod, where the pilgrims first landed, and its harbor, still called the harbor of Cape Cod,— one of the best and most im- portant in the United States, sufficient in depth for ships of the largest size, and in ex- tent to anchor three thousand vessels at once, owe their preservation to this grass. To an inhabitant of an inland country, it is difficult to conceive the extent and the violence with which the sands at the extremity of Cape Cod are thrown up from the depths of the sea, and AMO left on the beach in thousands of tons, by every drifting storm, These sand-hills when dried by the sun, are hurled by the winds into the harbor and upon the town. Beach grass is said to have been cultivated here as early as 1812. Before that time, when the sand drifted down upon the dwelling-houses — as it did whenever the beach was broken — to save them from burial, the only resort was to wheeling it off with barrows. Thus tons were removed every year from places that are now perfectly secure from the drifting of sand. Indeed, were it not for the window-glass in some of the oldest houses in these localities, you would be ready to deny this statement; but the sand has blown with such force and so long against this glass, as to make it perfectly ground." Congress appropriated, between the years of 1826 and 1839, about twenty-eight thousand dollars, which were expended in setting out beach-grass near the village of Provincetown, for the protection of the harbor. Other ap- propriations have since been made, which, to- gether with the efforts of the town committee, whose duty it is to enter any man's enclosure, summer or winter, and set out the grass, if the sand is uncovered and movable. By this means they are now rid of sand-storms, which were once the terror of the place, and the coast appears a fertile meadow. Amo'mum. From a, not, and momos, impurity ; in reference to its supposed quality of counter- acting poison. Nat. Ord. Zingiber aceae. This genus of aromatic herbs furnishes the Grains of Paradise and the Cardamom Seeds, which are aromatic and stimulant. The plants grow readily in the green-house, and are prop- agated by division of the root. Introduced in 1820 from the East Indies. Amo'rpha. False Indigo. From a, not, and morpha, form ; in reference to the irregularity of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A small genus of large, spreading shrubs, natives of North America. The leaves are compound, resembling the Locust, only the leaflets are finer. The flowers are dark-purple or violet, spangled with yellow, disposed in long panicles on the tops of the branches. A. fruti- cosa is a very ornamental shrub for the lawn, and is readily propagated from suckers, which are produced in abundance. A. canescens is a small-growing species, common in the Western and Southern States. It has received the local name of Lead Plant, on account of the white, hairy down with which it is covered. Amo'rphopha'llus. From amorphos, disfigured, and phallos, a mace ; form of spadix. Nat. Ord. Aroidea,. These plants were formerly in the genus Arum, from which they are distinguished by their spreading spathes. They are natives of India and other parts of tropical Asia, where they are cultivated for the abundance of starch that is found in their root-stocks. Most varie- ties are ornamental plants for the green-house or garden. A. Rivieri, called the Umbrella Plant, is particularly so, having large, solitary decompound leaves three to five feet in diam- eter, on a thick, tall, marbled stem, very orna- mental, either as a solitary plant or in groups on the lawn. After planting, the first appear- ance is the flower stalk, which rises to the AMARYLLIS BELLADONNA. AMMOBIUM. AMARYLLIS FORMOSISSIMA. AMARYLLIS YITTATA HYBR1DA. ANEMONE CORONARIA. ANEMONE JAPONICA. AMARANTHTJ8 GIBBOSTJS. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 21 AMO height of two feet. As it expands, the fetor it exhales is overpowering and sickening, and so perfectly resembles that of carrion as to in- duce flies to cover the club of the spadix with their eggs. Propagated by offsets. Amorphous. Without definite form. Ampelo'psis. Woodbine. From ampelos, a vine, and opsis, resemblance : in reference to its re- semblance to the Grape vine. Nat. Ord. Vita- cem. A. quinquefolia is well known by its common names of Virginia Creeper and Five-leaved Ivy. Its flowers have -no beauty, but it is worth cultivating as an ornamental plant, from the brilliant scarlet and orange which its leaves assume in autumn, and which look particularly well at that season, when in- termingled with those of the common Ivy, from the fine contrast they afford. The plant is of very rapid growth in any kind of soil, and it is propagated by layers or cuttings. The Virginia Creeper is one of our finest indig- enous climbers. It grows very rapidly, at- taches itself firmly to wood or stone buildings, or to the trunks of old trees, and soon covers these objects with a fine mantle of rich foliage. Nothing can be more admirably adapted than this plant for concealing and disguising the unsightly stone fences which are so common, and so great a deformity in many parts of the country. . A. tricuspidata (syn. A. Veitchii), with its sub- variety A. t. Royalii, is one of the most valuable of hardy climbing plants, and is now planted in immense quantities. It was first extensively used in this country in Boston, Mass., where it is now to be seen covering some of the finest public and private build- ings in the city. It clings with great tenacity to wood, as well as brick or stone, and in summer the leaves lapping over each other resemble a coat of mail, and form a dense sheet of rich, glossy green, changing in au- tumn to the most gorgeous shades of crimson, scarlet and yellow. It is also used largely on rocky and shaly railroad cuts and embank- ments, where its clinging tendency helps greatly to keep the rocks from dropping on to the track. ]t is perfectly hardy, and is prop- agated by cuttings, layers, or most generally from seeds. Introduced from Japan in 1868. Ampely'gonum. The name is an allusion to the grape-like fruit. Nat. Ord. Polygonacece. This interesting species from China is one from which the finest quality of indigo is ob- tained. It is an herbaceous perennial, obtained readily from seed. Amphicarpae'a. Hog Pea Nut. From amphi, both, and Karpos, a fruit ; in allusion to the two kinds of pods ; those of the upper flowers being scimitar-shaped, three to four-seeded; those of the lower, pear-shaped, fleshy, usu- ally ripening but one seed. These lower pods bury themselves in the ground after fertiliza- tion. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. Ornamental annuals, with herbaceous twin- ing stems, of easy culture. Allied to Wistaria. Amphi'come. From amphi, around, and Kome, hair ; in allusion to the structure of the seeds. Nat. Ord. Bignoniacem. This genus consists of two species of very elegant perennial herbs, natives of the temper- ANA ate regions of North-western India. A. Emodi is a remarkably handsome plant, and well de- serves a place in choice collections. It is about one foot high, and the flowers, which are large for the plant, stand erect when ex- panded. The fruits are about the length and thickness of a small quill, and their seeds are provided with a tuft of hairs at each end, a circumstance which gave rise to the name. Amplexicaul. Stem-clasping ; as when the base of the leaf surrounds the stem, as in Oestrum auriculatum, Lonicera, etc. Amso'nia. In memory of Charles Amson, a cel- ebrated traveler. Nat. Ord. Apocynaceaz. A small genus of herbaceous perennial plants, with beautiful blue flowers produced in ter- minal panicled clusters. The several species are natives of the United States. A. Tabernce- montana, one of the more beautiful species, is common on low grounds in the Southern and Western States. Amy'gdalus. Almond. From amysso, to lacer- ate ; in reference to the fissured channels in the stone of the fruit ; but some suppose from a Hebrew word signifying vigilant, as its eaily flowers announce the return of spring. Nat. Ord. Rosacea. A. nana is the common Flowering Almond of gardens, of which there are several varie- ties, the double white and double pink alone being desirable. Native of Russia. Intro- duced in 1683. Propagated readily by suck- ers. A. communis bears the sweet, and A. am- arus the bitter Almonds of commerce. They are supposed to be natives of Western Asia, and are mentioned in sacred history as among the best fruits of the land of Canaan. The Almond is plentiful in China, in most Eastern countries, and also in Barbary. It is exten- sively cultivated in Italy, Spain and the South of France. The several varieties, such as hard, soft or paper shelled, have all originated from A. communis. Amyrida'ceee. With the appearance of Oranges, and sometimes with the dotted leaves of that order, these plants differ in their fruit, form- ing a shell whose husk eventually splits into valve-like segments. The tropics of India, Africa and America exclusively produce the species. Their resinous juice is of great importance, forming an ingredient of frankin- cense and other preparations demanding a fragrant combustible matter. Anacanthous. Spineless. Anacardia'ceee. When trees or bushes have a resinous, milky, often caustic juice, dotless leaves, and small, inconspicuous flowers, with an ovary containing a single ovule, suspended at the end of an erect cord, it is pretty certain that they belong to this order, of which more than 400 species are described, inhabiting the tropics both north and south of the equator, but not known to occur in Australia. Pistacia and some kinds of Rhus inhabit temperate latitudes. Among the products of the order are the Mango fruit, and that called in the West Indies the Hog Plum ; the nuts named Pistachios and Cashews, the Black Varnish of Burmah and elsewhere, Mastic, Fustic, etc. These varnishes are extremely acrid, and pro- duce dangerous consequences to persons who use them incautiously. 22 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS ANA Anaca'rdium. From ana, like, and kardia, the heart; in reference to the form of the nut. Nat. Ord. Anacardiacem. Ornamental evergreen trees, natives of the East and West Indies, remarkable for their beautiful, fragrant flowers, and for their fruit, known as the Cashew-nut. The trees are too large for introduction into the green-house. Anacy'clus. A genus of Composite comprising about ten species of hardy or half-hardy annual herbs, natives of Southern Europe and North- ern Africa. A. radiatus purpureus, a very pretty and free-flowering hardy annual, is the only species in general cultivation, and thrives well under ordinary cultivation. Anaga'llis. Pimpernel. From anagelao, to laugh ; fabled to possess a virtue to remove sadness. Nat. Ord. Primulacew. A genus of pretty dwarf annual and biennial plants. The former have given place to the many seminal improvements of the the latter, insomuch as to be rarely met with. They are universal favorites for planting in the beds of the flower garden, where their numerous blue or red flowers, expanded when- ever the sun shines, are very effective. They are propagated by seeds or cuttings. When seed is desired, the branch or plant on which it is growing should be taken entire, a little before the autumn frosts begin, and hung up in a dry, sunny place, such as before the windows of a shed, allowing the pods to remain upon it until wanted in the spring for sowing as it requires a long time to become properly ripened ; afterwards it vegetates freely if sown in a gentle hot-bed. The garden varieties are hybrids. The species under cultivation were introduced from Southern Europe in 1830. A. arvensis, the common Pimpernel, is plenty in waste, sandy places in the United States, having been introduced from Europe and become thoroughly natural- ized. Analogy. Resemblance to a thing in form, but not in function, or in function, but not in form. Corresponding with a thing in many points, but differing in more, or in points of more importance. Thus the flowers of Potent- ilia and Ranunculus are analogous. Anami'rta. A genus of plants inhabiting Ceylon, Malabar, and the Eastern Isles of India, and belonging to the natural order Menispermaceaz. The most important, if not the only plant of this genus, is the A. cocculus, the plant which produces the seeds known as Cocculus Indicus, which were formerly used in the adulteration of malt liquors ; it is also used to poison fish. It is a climbing plant, with ash-colored corky bark ; not in cultivation. Anana'ssa Pineapple. From nanas, the Guiana name. Nat. Ord. Bromeliacem. A. 'saliva, the common Pineapple, is universally acknowledged to be one of the most delicious fruits in existence. More than three hundred years ago it was described by Jean de Lery, a Huguenot priest, as being of such excellence, that the gods might luxuriate upon it, and that it should only be gathered by the hand of Venus. It is a native of Brazil, and was first introduced into Europe in 1555, having been sent there by Andre Thevet, a monk, from Peru. The plant is perennial, not unlike the Aloe, but the AND leaves are much thinner, and of a hard fibrous texture, with numerous short, sharp spines on the edges; the variegated form is highly prized as one of the most valuable plants for decorative purposes. The fruit varies like most other species, there now being nearly fifty varieties in cultivation. Anasta'tica. From anastatis, resurrection, in reference to its hygrometrical property. Nat. Ord. Cruciferoz. An annual plant, indigenous to the Egyptian deserts, and called the Rose of Jericho. When full grown it contracts its rigid branches into a round ball, and is then tossed about by the wind. When it alights in water, or damp ground, the branches relax and open out, as if its life were renewed ; hence its name of Resurrection Plant. Among the superstitious tales told of it is, that "it first bloomed on Christmas Eve, to salute the birth of the Redeemer, and paid homage to His resurrec- tion by remaining expanded until Easter. ' ' This curious annual can readily be grown from seed, but will not stand the severity of our winters ; they can, however, be taken up and kept dry in a house. When wanted to expand, put them in a saucer of water. Anceps. Two edged, as the stem of an Iris. Ancho'manes. A remarkable and beautiful stove aroid allied to Amorphophallus. A. Hookeri, has a pale purple spathe appearing before the leaf which when fully developed is much divided and toothed. Introduced from Fernando, Po., in 1832. A'nchovy Pear. See Grias. Anchu'sa From anchousa, a cosmetic paint made from one of the species ; used for stain- ing the skin. Nat. Ord. Boraginacece. Hardy herbaceous plants, suitable for deep shrubbery borders or any unfrequented place. Most of the species have purple flowers. Ancylo'gyne. From ankylos, curved, and gyne, a female ; the pistil is curved. Nat. Ord. Acanthaceai. A small genus of tropical under-shrubs, with terminal spikes or racemes of showy flowers. A. longiflora. from Guayaquil, is a valuable species for the green-house. It produces large, drooping panicles of rich purple, tubulose flowers, two inches long, and of a most attractive character. Propagated by cuttings. Introduced in 1866. Andrew's (St.) Cross. Ascyrum Crux Andrew. Andro'gynous. Producing male and female flowers on the same plant, or on the same spike or head. Andro'meda Kill Calf. A classical name, after the daughter of Cepheus and Cassiope, king and queen of Ethiopia. Nat. Ord. Ericacem. A. Mariana, Stagger-bush, so common on the plains of Long Island, is a beautiful represen- tative of this genus, one much sought after in Europe, where it is considered one of the finest American plants. They are beautiful shrubs, growing about two feet high, with leaves similar to those of the privet ; flowers white, in spikes or racemes three to eight inches long, produced in June. They are conspicuous throughout the season on account of their form and foliage. The foliage is said to poison lambs and calves. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 23 AND Andropo'gon. Beard grass. A genus of grasses of but little value, either for agricultural purposes, or as objects of interest in the garden. They have the widest geographical range ; several of the species are common on our coasts, growing in dry sandy soils. Andro'sace. From aner, a man, and sakos, a buckler, in reference to the resemblance of the anther to an ancient buckler. Nat. Ord. Primulacece. The species forming this genus (which is nearly allied to the Primula) are elegant little plants from the Alps. They consist of annuals, biennials, and perennials, all perfectly hardy, and well adapted for rock-work on partially exposed spots. Propagated by cuttings, or from seeds. Aneile'ma. A genus of green-house perennials belonging to the Nat. Ord. CommelynacetB. They are generally of a trailing or creeping habit and are useful for hanging baskets, etc. Natives of New Holland and China. Flowers blue. Ane'mia. From aneimon, naked ; in reference to the naked inflorescence. Nat. Ord. Poly- podiacem. An extensive genus of tropical Ferns. There are numerous species in the West Indies and South America, some of which are of an ornamental character, and are much prized in collections. A. adiantifolia is one of the most beautiful. The genus is more interesting to the botanist than the florist. Propagated by spores or division. Anemidi'ctyon. Included now with the genus Anemia. Anemo'ne. Wind Flower. From anemos, the wind; inhabiting exposed places. Nat. Ord. Ranunculaceaz. The species are showy flowering plants, valued for their hardy nature, and also because they will flower at any required season, accord- ing to the time the roots are kept out of the ground. The roots of A. coronaria are solid, flattened masses, closely resembling ginger. They should be planted in the garden as early in the spring as possible, in very rich soil and in partial shade. When the tops are dead, take up and store in a dry, airy place, or in boxes of dry sand until the planting season. For indoor cultivation they can be planted at any time in very rich soil in pots or boxes. The prevailing colors are red, white and blue ; flowers double or semi-double. A. Japonica is one of the most beautiful of garden flowers giving a profusion of bloom from August till November, and even later if protected. The flowers of A. Japonica alba are two to three inches across, pure white, with a centre of deep lemon-colored stamens, and are invaluable for cutting. Introduced from Japan in 1844. One of the earliest spring flowers is A. nemorosa, the white Wind Flower of our woods. A. Pulsatilla and its varieties, with whitish, violet and purple flowers, are known in English gardens as Pasque Flowers. Ane'thum. See Dill. Angels' Eyes. Veronica Chammdrys. Angels' Trumpets. A popular name for the flowers of Brugmansia suaveolens. Ange'lica. The name was given in reference to ANI the supposed angelic medicinal virtues of some species. Nat. Ord. UmbellifercB. One of the species, A. Curtisii, is common in moist places, from Pennsylvania southward. The "intrinsic virtues" that it was once supposed to possess are entirely lost, its great virtue now consisting in its efficacy as a trap for earwigs. If the stem be cut in short pieces and thrown among plants, those pests will creep into the hollow stems, and their de- struction is simple and easy. Ange'lica-tree. See Aralia spinosa. Angelo'nia. From angelon, its local name in South America. Nat. Ord. Scrophulariaceaz. A genus of very handsome herbaceous perennials, growing from one to three feet high, and producing dense terminal racemes of deep violet colored and blue flowers. Natives of South America ; propagated by cut- tings of the young shoots. Introduced in 1846. Angio'pteris. From aggeion, a vessel, and pteris, a wing. Nat. Ord. Polypodiaceaz. A small genus of noble tropical ferns, com- mon in Ceylon, India and the islands of the Eastern Archipelago. It is a remarkably hand- some genus, but the plants are too large to be of use in the green-house. Angree'cum. From angurek, the Malayan name for air plants. Nat. Ord. Orchidaceaz. An extensive genus of tropical Orchids, embracing a number of classes that are mere weeds and a few very rare and beautiful spe- cies. Among the latter is A. sesquipedale, a magnificent plant, a native of Madagascar, where it grows in great profusion, covering trees from top to bottom. The stems are three to four feet high, the foliage about a foot long, dark, shining green ; flowers six inches in diameter, ivory white, with a tail from ten to eighteen inches long. Unlike many of this order, the plants flower when quite small. The flowers have a powerful fra- grance, particularly at night. There are about forty species, nearly all natives of tropical or South Africa and the Mascarene Islands. Angulo'a. In honor of Angulo, a Spanish natur- alist. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A small genus of very remarkable terrestrial Orchids, inhabiting the foi'ests of tropical America. They have broad, ribbed leaves, short, leafy scapes, bearing a single large, fleshy flower, white, yellow, or spotted with crimson, on a pale yellow ground. There are several of the species under cultivation. They are increased by division. Introduced in 1845. Angu'ria. One of the Greek names for the Cucumber. Nat. Ord. Cucurbitaceaz. A genus of climbing plants allied to Momor- dica. They have a somewhat four-angled fruit, and some of the species are well worth cultivating. Natives of South America. Anigoza'nthus. From anoigo, to expand, and anthos, a flower ; in reference to the branching expansion of the flower-stalks. A curious and handsome genus of Hcemodo- raceaz from the Swan River district of Austra- lia, including some very distinct and peculiar species. They are perennial tufted-growing plants, with erect stems, clothed with short, thick, persistent, velvety down, which, as it contrasts with the rather large, yellow or dark purple flowers, makes them desirable plants for green-house decoration. 24 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS ANI Animated Oats. See Avena. Anise. Pimpinella anisum. Aniseed Tree. See IUicium. Annuals. These include all plants which spring from the seed, flower and die within the course of a year. Many, however, which are not strictly of annual duration, but which are sown every year, in preference to housing the roots over winter, are generally classed under the head of Annuals. To produce the best results where such seeds are to be sown in the open border, the soil should be enriched with stable manure or other fertilizer, just as for a crop of vegetables or fruits ; thoroughly dug, and raked level and smooth. The location for nearly all kinds of Annual flowers should be free from shade, though many sorts will suc- ceed well where they get sunlight for half the day only. Hardy Annuals are those which require no artificial aid to enable them to develop, but grow and flower freely in the open air. All such may be sown in the open ground as soon as the soil is dry enough in spring to work. Tender Annuals are generally of tropical origin, and should not be sown in the vicinity of New York until the first week in May. Indeed, the best rule for all sections of the country, from Maine to Florida, is not to sow the tender kinds until such time as the farmers begin to plant Corn, Melons and Cucumbers. Many seeds of Annuals may be sown thickly and transplanted, thinning them out sufficiently to allow the plants to develop and exhibit their true character. Successive sowings of many of the showy species will be found to prolong their flowering season. They are usually sown in rows from six to twenty- four inches apart, or in circular patches of from one to two feet in diameter, each circle being from one to two feet apart, according to the growth of the variety. But whether sown in rows or in circular patches, the soil should be first loosened, so that the seed may be cov- ered from one quarter of an inch to one inch in depth. After the seed is sown, shake over it fine soil, sufficient to cover the seeds, lighter or heavier according to their size. It is a good plan to place a label in the centre of each circular patch or at the end of each row, so as to mark where the seed has been sown, for in nearly all soils there are the seeds of weeds, which spring up often quicker than the flower seeds do ; therefore it is necessary to know exactly where the seeds have been sown, so that the weeds can be pulled out or hoed up, and not crowd and smother the young seed- lings. Some of the more tender Annuals require to be started in the green-house or hot-bed, and, after being potted off into small pots, and gradually hardened off, planted out where they are to remain. Annular. Having a ring-like form. Ance'ctochi'lus. From anoiktos, open, and chei- los, a lip ; the apex spreading. Nat. Ord. Orehidacem. These admired little plants have small, white, rather inconspicuous flowers, but the want of beauty here is fully compensated for, in the rich and lovely markings of the leaves, which are covered with a gold network on a choco- late-colored or olive-green velvet like ground. They should be potted in a mixture of leaf- mould, sphagnum and silver sand, and a bell- ANO glass kept continually over them, in the warmest part of the hot-house, in order to assimilate their present condition with their native one in the hot, humid jungles of the East, whence they have been derived. First introduced from Java in 1836. Anomalous. Irregular, unusual, contrary to rule ; as where a plant is very unlike the great majority of those to which it is most nearly allied. Anomathe'ca. From anomos, singular, and theca, a capsule or seed pod. Nat. Ord. Irid- acecs. Interesting little bulbous-rooted plants from the Cape of Good Hope. A. cruenta is useful for planting in masses, as it produces its blood-colored flowers in great profusion. They may be increased to almost any extent from seed, and the young plants will bloom the same season if sown in a gentle heat about the early part of March, and afterward removed to the open air. Ano'na. Custard Apple. From Menona, its Banda name. Nat. Ord. Anonacece. A South American and West Indian genus of shrubs and trees, where several of the species are cultivated for the sake of their fruits. A. muricata, the rough Custard Apple, is a middle- sized tree, growing abundantly on the savan- nahs in Jamaica, and bearing a large, oval fruit of a greenish yellow color, covered with small knobs on the outside, and containing a white pulp, having a flavor compounded of sweet and acid, and very cooling and agree- able. It is, however, too common to be much esteemed by the wealthier people, though it is much sought after and relished by the negroes. The odor and taste of the whole plant is simi- lar to that of the black currant. This fruit is called by the natives Sour-sop. A. squamosa is a low-growing tree or shrub, common in both the East and West Indies. The fruit is nearly the size of the head of an artichoke, scaly, and of a greenish yellow color. The rind is strong and thick ; but the pulp is deli- cious, having the odor of rose-water, and tast- ing like clotted cream mixed with sugar. It is, like many other fruits, said to have a much finer flavor in the Indian Archipelago than in the West Indies. The local name for this fruit is Sweet-sop. A. cherimolia, a South American species, is known as the Cherimoyer in Peru, where it is accounted one of their best fruits. The tree which produces this fruit has a trunk about ten feet high ; the leaves are oval, and pointed at both ends ; the flowers are solitary, very fragrant, and of a greenish color; the fruit is large, heart-shaped, rough on the out- side, and greyish-brown, or nearly black, when ripe. The flesh, in which the seeds are con- tained, is soft, sweet and pleasant, and highly esteemed both by natives and foreigners. A. palustris yields the Alligator Apple, which fruit is shining and smooth in appearance, sweet and not unpleasant to the taste ; but it is a strong narcotic, and therefore not generally eaten. The wood of the Alligator Apple tree is so soft and compressible, that the people of Jamaica call it cork-wood, and employ it for stoppers. Ano'pterus. From ano, upward, and pteron, a wing; in reference to the seeds, which are winged at the apex. Nat. Ord. Saxifragacece. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 25 ANS A. glandulosa, the only species introduced into our green-houses, is a very beautiful shrub, remarkable for its large, handsome leaves, and axillary panicles or spikes of large white and pink flowers. Introduced from Van Diemen's Land in 1846. Propagated by cut- tings. Anse'llia. In honor of Mr. Ansell, the botanical collector who accompanied the ill-fated Niger expedition. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A. small genus of epiphytal Orchids. A. Afri- cana is a very beautiful plant, found growing on oil-palm trees in the island of Fernando Po. It has a tall stem resembling the sugar cane ; broad, strap-shaped leaves, and large, drooping panicles of greenish flowers, blotched with purple. The plant flowers in January, and keeps in perfection for several months. Propagated by division. Introduced in 1844. Antenna'ria. From antenna,, feelers ; in refer- ence to the downy heads of the seeds. Nat. Ord. Compositce. A genus of herbaceous perennials, widely disseminated throughout this country and Europe. Some of the species are used as bed- ding plants. A. Margaritacea, a native spe- cies, popularly known as Pearly Everlasting, is a favorite garden plant in Europe Anterior. Placed in front, or outwards. A'nthemis. Chamomile. From anthemon, a flower ; in reference to the great number of flowers produced. Nat. Ord. Compositce. The genus of plants to which the Chamomile belongs, the flowers of which are much valued as a tonic, and for other medicinal properties. A. tinctoria furnishes a yellow dye. A. Pyre- thrum, the Pellitory of Spain, is a pretty little perennial, with large white flowers, stained with lilac on the back. Miller raised this plant in a rather curious way in 1732, finding its seeds among some Malaga raisins to which they had adhered. Anthe'ricum. From anthos, a flower, and herkos, a hedge ; in reference to the tall flower stems. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. A. Liliastrum, a very pretty hardy herbaceous plant, has broadish grassy leaves, and a flower stalk one and a half to two feet high, bearing many large, pure white, sweet-scented flow- ers, marked on each segment with a green dot. This is commonly called St. Bruno's Lily. A. vittatum variegatum, a species of recent intro- duction, from the Cape of Good Hope, has foliage of a bright grassy green color, beauti- fully striped and margined with creamy white. In variegation and habit it closely resembles Pandanus Veitchii, but is of more rapid growth and easy of cultivation. It has a hardy con- stitution, not as against cold, but as against the dry atmosphere and gases of the drawing- room, which makes it a valuable plant for the conservatory or for filling in baskets, jardin- ieres, or rustic designs. The method of prop- agating this species is both interesting and peculiar. Buds or short shoots are formed on the flower stems, which, put in as cuttings in the ordinary way, root rapidly. It is also propagated by seeds or division of roots. In- troduced from the Cape of Good Hope in 1824. Antheri'dia. The reproductive organs in crypto- gamio plants, analogous to anthers in flower- ing plants. ANT Antholy'za. From anthos, a flower, and lyssa, rage ; in reference to the opening of the flower like the mouth of an enraged animal. Nat. Ord. Iridacece. A pretty genus of Cape bulbs, like the Ano- matheca, but of stronger habit. They should be grown in light, rich earth, and have the protection of a frame, or some other cover- ing, in winter, to exclude frost. Scarlet and orange are the prevailing colors of the flowers. Inteoduced from the Cape of Good Hope in 1759. Propagated by offsets. Anthospe'rmum. Amber Tree. From anthos, a flower, and sperma, a seed. Nat. Ord. Rubi- acem. An ornamental evergreen shrub, from the Cape of Good Hope. A. JEthopicum is an inter- esting plant, with verticillate spikes of green and white flowers, thriving best in peat, loam and sand. Increased by cuttings. Anthoxa'nthum. Sweet-scented Vernal Grass. From anthos, a flower, and xanthus, yellow. Nat. Ord. Qraminacew. A small genus of grasses found in nearly all the temperate portions of the globe. A. odor- atum, the best known species, is a native of Europe, but has become thoroughly natural- ized in this country, so much so that it is gen- erally supposed indigenous. This is one of the earliest spring grasses, as well as one of the latest in autumn, and is almost the only grass that is fragrant. It possesses a property said to be peculiar to this species, known as coumarin, which not only gives it its aromatic odor, but imparts it to other grasses with which it is cured. Professor Johnstone says the fragrant resinous principle which occurs in this grass is the same which gives fragrance to the Tonka Bean, to the Faham Tea of the Mauritius, and to the Melilotus Alba. The vapor of coumarin is stated to act powerfully on the brain, and it is supposed by many that hay fever, to which many persons are liable, may be owing to the presence of this substance in unusual quantities during the period of hay-making. This grass possesses but little value of itself, as its nutritive properties are slight ; nor is it much relished by stock of any kind. A slight mixture of it with other grasses is sometimes used because of its early growth. Anthri'scus. Chervil. Derivation of name uncertain, but said to have been given by Pliny. Nat. Ord. Umbelliferai. A small genus of mostly uninteresting plants, common throughout Europe. There are but two species under cultivation. A. cerefolium, the common Chervil, an annual plant indigenous to various parts of Europe, is sometimes naturalized in and around old gar- dens. It rises to nearly two feet in height, the leaves are of a very delicate texture, three times divided, and the flowers, which are of a whitish color, appear in June. The tender leaves are much used in soups and salads, and those of a curled variety in garnishing. It is easily grown from seed, which should be sown early in May. A. bulbosus (syn. Chairophyllum bulbosum), the tuberous-rooted Chervil, is a native of France, where it is cultivated to some extent as a vegetable. In size and shape the root attains the size of a small carrot. It is outwardly of a grey color, but when cut the flesh is white, mealy, and by no means 26 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS ANT unpleasant to the taste. When boiled the flavor is intermediate between that of the chestnut and potato, in consequence of which it has been recommended by English horti- culturists for cultivation as a substitute for the latter root. Anthu'rium. from anthos, a flower, and oura, a tail ; referring to the inflorescence. Nat. Ord. AroidecB. This very large genus of stove and green- house plants, natives of Central and Tropical America, for the most part growing upon trees or in their forks, is remarkable both for the peculiar inflorescence, and often noble and beautifully veined and colored leaves, and is distinguished in structure from all the Europe- an members of the family in the flowers being hermaphrodite. Of those species most admired for their flowers, A. Andreanum and A. Scherzerianum, are the most noticeable. The singular form and intense coloring of the flowers, together with the gracefully-curved foliage, and long duration of the flowers, render them most valuable plants for the decoration of the warm green-house. A. Splendidum, A. Regale, A. Crystallinum, and many other beautiful species are grown for their magnif- icent foliage and are indispensable in a collection of stove plants. Anthy'llis. From anthos, a flower, and ioulos, down ; literally downy flower. Nat. Ord. Leguminosoz. A genus of trailing herbs or shrubs, annuals and perennials. About twenty species are known, chiefly from the countries bordering on the Mediterranean Sea, most of which are uninteresting plants. A. vulneraria, is a native of Great Britain, and is frequently met in dry pastures near the sea. The leaves are large, of a bluish tinge and downy. The flowers are yellow, and grow in crowded heads, mostly in pairs. Its popular name is Kidney Vetch, or Lady's Fingers. A. Barba- Jovis, is an evergreen shrub, a native of the South of Europe. It has pinnate leaves, and yellow flowers, and the whole plant has a silvery appearance, from which it has derived its name of Jupiter's Beard and the Silver- bush. This is a very handsome shrub, but not hardy north of the Carolinas. Antia'ris. Upas Tree. From antja, its Java name. Nat. Ord. Artocarpacea. A. toxicaria is the fabled Upas Tree of Java, which furnishes a deadly poison in the form of a milky juice that exudes when slightly bruised or cut. The exaggerated accounts, that no other plants, or animals, or birds could live near the tree ; that the death penalty was satisfied if the criminal would cut from the tree a branch or collect some of its juices, were effectually dispelled by Mr. Davidson, author of Trade and Travel in the Far East, who, with a number of friends, climbed up into the tree, took lunch, smoked their cigars, and enjoyed a few hours socially in its branches. The Upas has undoubtedly derived its evil reputation chiefly from its having been found growing in the celebrated valley of Java, where, through volcanic agency, there is a constant evolution of carbonic acid gas, fatal to air-breathing animals, and where both man and beast frequently fall victims to this invisible danger. "As if to prove the saying that reality is more strange than fiction, at ANT least in botany, the very nearest plant in affinity, to this deadly poisonous tree, is the Cow Tree of South America, whose milky juice is as wholesome as that of an ' Alderney,' and that the Bread Fruit Tree is also closely allied to the Upas." Antigo'non. From anti, against or opposite, and gonia, an angle. A splendid genus of green-house climbing plants, belonging to the Nat. Ord. Polygonaceai. A. leptopus, a native of Nicaragua, is a magnificent climber for the stove-house, rival- ling the Bougainvillea in the color and abund- ance of its flowers. The chief attraction of the flowers is afforded by the sepals, which are half an inch long, of a bright rose color. As the flowers are produced in such great pro- fusion, the plant in its season of flowering presents a brilliant and extremely showy appearance. Its discoverer, Dr. Seeman, writes respecting it : "I am well acquainted with the contents of our gardens and the vegetation of most parts of the world, but I have no hesita- tion in giving it as my deliberate opinion that there is no more graceful or beautiful climber than Antigonon leptopus." Antigra'mme. From anti, like, and gramma, writing. Alluding to the arrangement of the sori. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacew. This genus is composed of two species of tender ferns, natives of Brazil. A. Brasiliensis, is a simple-fronded Fern, with something of the habit of the Bird's-nest Fern, Asplenium Nidus, but, in a mature state of a glancous opaque green-color, and remarkable in the young plants, for having a broad band of silvery-gray on each side of the central midrib of the frond, giving it a variegated appearance. Propagated by seeds. Introduced in 1780. This genus is now included under Scolopen- drium, by some authors. Antirrhi'num. Snapdragon. Derived from anti, similar, and rhin, nose. The flowers of most of the species resemble the snout of some animal. Nat. Ord. Scrophulariacece. Annual and perennial plants, natives of the middle and south of Europe, and of which one species, A. majus, the common Snapdragon, is in every garden. There are many varieties of this species, the finest of which, A. m. cary- ophylloides, has the flowers striped like those of a flaked Carnation. All the species of Snap- dragon grow in any soil that is tolerably dry, and they are readily increased by cuttings ; for though they produce abundance of seeds, yet the varieties can only be perpetuated with certainty by the former mode of propa- gation. The beautiful carnation-like variety will, indeed, very seldom produce striped flow- ers two years in succession from the same root ; and thus a person who has purchased a plant with beautifully-striped flowers will gen- erally have the mortification, the second year, of finding it produce nothing but flowers of the common Snap-dragon, unless cuttings have been made from the young shoots of the plant, and the old root thrown away. As this plant, in its wild state, is very commonly found growing on the tops of old walls, it may be considered as one of the most ornamental plants for placing in such a situation. Ants. See Insects. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 27 AOT Ao'tus. From a, not, and ous, ear ; the ear-like appendages to the calyx are wanting. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. A somewhat extensive genus of small ever- green shrubs from New Holland. They are slender plants, with heath-like leaves, arranged in whorls around the stem. The flowers are pea-shaped, bright yellow, on short stalks. A. gracillima, a native of West Aus- tralia, is a favorite species for the green-house. It is a slender shrub, with copious yellow flowers, which are so thickly set on the stems as to hide the leaves from view. Botanists report several very beautiful species not yet in cultivation. Propagated by seeds or cut- tings. Introduced in 1844. Apetalous. Without petals. Aphela'ndra. From apheles, simple, and aner, a male ; the anthers being one-celled. Nat. Ord. Acanthacece. A small genus of dwarf shrubs from tropical America, allied to the Justicia. A. cristata is a remarkably handsome hot-house plant, pro- ducing large spikes of orange-scarlet flowers. A., aurantiaca has no less handsome flowers of light orange color, and grows freely in the green-house. A. Margaritas has bright orange or apricot-colored flowers, growing in short, terminal spikes. The leaves are barred with white on each side of the midrib ; underneath they are of a clear, rose color ; a very showy species, introduced from Central America in 1884. They are increased by cuttings. Aphele'xis. From apheles, simple, and exis, habit. Nat. Ord. Composite. Green-house evergreen shrubs, from the Cape of Good Hope, having much resemblance to that class of everlasting flowers known as Helichrysum. The genus is composed of five species, all of them having very small leaves, which are closely pressed to the stem like those of club-moss. The flowers are solitary, of a pink or yellow color, in small clusters of two or three. A. humilis and its varieties are most showy and valuable green-house plants. When in bloom they remain in per- fection for six or seven weeks. Propagated by cuttings, or from seeds. Introduced in 1796. Aphides. See Insects. Aphylla'nthes. Its stems are like a rush, and bear on their summits a little tuft of flowers ; hence the name, from aphyllos, leafless, and anthos, a flower. Nat. Ord. Liliaceae. A small genus of hardy, herbaceous, rush- like perennials, common in Southern Europe. The flower scape is very slender and grass- like and bears a cluster of small blue flowers, that are of but short duration. This plant is of considerable interest to the botanist, but not of the slightest use to the florist or gar- dener. Aphy'llon. Naked Broom Rape. A genus of Orobanchacem, comprising two species, both natives of this country. They are character- ized by their solitary bractless flowers, regu- larly five-cleft calyx, and almost regular corolla. The flowers are perfect, purplish, on long, naked scapes or peduncles. The plants are brownish or yellowish. Aphy'llous. Destitute of leaves. It sometimes signifies their partial or imperfect produc- tion. APO Api'cra. A division of succulents allied to the Aloe, and comprising along with Haworthia a group of species of very different aspect from the great cylindrical or tubular-flowered Aloes more commonly associated with the name. The present are dwarf or stemless plants, with very crowded leaves and slender flower scapes, bearing erect greenish-white flowers. Apiculate. Terminated in a little point. A'pios, From apion, a pear , in reference to the form of the roots. Nat. Ord. LeguminoscB. A. tuberosa, the only species, is found in the woods and hedges from Massachusetts to the Carolinas. It is an elegant climbing plant, allied to the Wistaria. It bears large clusters of brownish-purple, sweet-scented flowers in July. Readily propagated by division of tubers, which are edible. Commonly known as Ground-nut, and erroneously as Tuberous Wistaria. A'pium. From apon, Celtic for water ; in refer- ence to the habitat of the genus. Nat. Ord. UmbettifercB. Though this genus contains but a few spe- cies, two of our best known vegetables belong to it, viz.: The "Celery," A. graveolens, and "Parsley," A. petroselinum, for culture of which, see under their respective names. Aple'ctrum. Putty Root. Adam and Eve. From a, not, and plektron, a spur ; the flower without spurs. Nat. Ord. OrchidacecB. A. hyemale, the only species, is a hardy bulbous Orchid. The flowers are produced in summer in a raceme a foot or more high, and are of a dingy color, more curious than beau- tiful. The plant is occasionally found in the Northern and Eastern States. Aplopa'ppus. A synonym of Haplopappus, a genus of Composite, of but little interest. Apocyna'ceae. A large natural order of trees, shrubs and herbs, with simple, opposite, some- times alternate or whorled leaves. Most of the species inhabit tropical countries ; the northern forms are the Vinca or Periwinkle, Nerium or Oleander, and a few more. In gen- eral the species form a poisonous, acrid, milky secretion, which renders them dangerous ; but others are mild enough in their action to be useful in medicine, and in a few cases the milk is bland enough to form a palatable beverage. Well-known genera belonging to this order are Allamanda, Nerium, Taberncemontana, and Vinca. About 600 species are known, distri- buted through about 100 genera. Apo'cynum. Indian Hemp. From apo, from, and kyon, a dog; poisonous to dogs. Nat. Ord. Apocynacece. A genus of hardy herbaceous perennials, in- digenous throughout the United States. A. cannabinum is commonly called Indian Hemp, from the fact of the Indians using the fibrous bark as a substitute for hemp in making their fishing-nets, mats, clothing, and various other articles for which the true Hemp is generally used. A. androsmmifolium, is termed by Eng- lish botanists the "Fly Trap of North Amer- ica," and is cultivated as an object of curiosity. They do not class it as insectiverous further than that its flowers catch and kill the flies, but do not feed upon them. None of the spe- cies possesses sufficient beauty to warrant its introduction into the garden. 28 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS APO Aponoge'ton. "Water Hawthorn. The name is derived from the Celtic apon, water, and the Greek word geiton, near ; the species growing in water. Nat. Ord. Naiadacecs. A genus of interesting aquatics, inhabiting the waters of the Cape of Good Hope, the East Indies and Australia. A. distachyon is a handsome aquatic plant, remarkable for its floating branched spikes of small fragrant white flowers. This species is a native of the Cape of Good Hope, but will flourish in a lake or stream if planted at a depth of about two feet of water. In appearance it resembles a Pondweed (Potamogeton), except that it is of a clear green color, without any tinge of brown. The leaves float on the surface of the water, are oblong, about 18 inches long when full grown, flat, and have three distinct veins run- ning parallel with the main rib. A charming variety, with rose-tinted flowers, is also in cul- tivation, having been introduced in 1885. Appendiculate. Having appendages. Applanate. Flattened out. Apple. Pyrus Malus. The history of the Apple shares obscurity with all the fruits, vegetables, and flowers that were in cultivation before any records were kept ; consequently speculation must take the place of facts in connection with the early history of this valuable fruit. The general opinion is that the origin of the culti- vated Apple is the wild Crab, which is found indigenous in nearly all parts of Europe, as well as in most parts of the United States. The Apple can only be grown in small gardens as a dwarf, either kept in a bush form or trained as a pyramid or other shape. Two sorts of dwarfing stocks are used by nursery- men, the Doucin and the Paradise. Trees upon the Doucin will ultimately grow quite large ; and as the Paradise is the only stock which makes really dwarf trees, the amateur who wishes to grow dwarf apple-trees should make sure that they are worked on Paradise stocks. Of course, trees of this kind are not advised as a source of profit; but there can scarcely be a handsomer object in the garden than a bush six feet high, and about the same through, loaded with enormous apples. The following sorts are recommended for garden culture. (For descriptions, see nursery cata- logues.) Baldwin, Gravenstein, Rhode Island Greening, King of Tompkins County, Maiden's Blush, Esopus Spitzenberg, Early Harvest, Northern Spy, Porter, Fall Pippin, Stump, Hubbardston Nonsuch and Jonathan, etc. Apple, Adam's. Citrus Limetta. Alligator. Anona palustris. Balsam. Momordica Balsamina. Beef. Sapota rugosa. Bitter. Cucumis (Citrullus) Colocynthis. Cherry. Pyrus baccata. Chinese. Pyrus (Malus) Spectabilis. Dead Sea or of Sodom. The fruit of Solatium Sodomeum, also applied to the galls of Quercus infectoria. Devil's. Mandragora officinalis. Elephant's. Feronia elephantum. Golden. JEgle marmelos, and Spondias lutea. Kangaroo. Solarium laciniatum. Love. Lycopersicum esculentum, or Tomato. May. Passiflora incarnata, also Podophyllum peltatum. Mamme. Mammea Americana. Monkey. Clusia flava. AQTJ Apple. N. American Crab. Pyrus Coronaria. Oak. A gall produced by insects on the leaves and twigs of the Oak. Of Jerusalem. Momordica Balsamina. Of Paradise. Citrus medica. A fruit used by the Jews at the feast of Tabernacles. Of Scripture. Probably the Apricot, Primus Armeniaca, or the Quince, Cydonia vulgaris. Of the Earth. An old name for Aristolochia rotunda and Cyclamen. Oregon Crab. Pyrus rivularis. Paradise. Pyrus malus prmcox, much used for grafting and budding superior sorts upon. Rose. The various species of Eugenia. Sugar. Anona squamosa. Thorn. Datura Stramonium. Wild Balsam. Echinocystis lobata. Wild Star. Chrysophyllum olivcBforme. Apple-Berry. Australian. The genus Billar- diera, which see. Apple-Mint. Mentha rotundifolia. Apple-Scented Geranium. Pelargonium odor- ata. Apple-Tree of Australia. Eucalyptus Stuartiana. Apple-Tree of New South Wales. Angophora subvelutina. Apple-Tree of Victoria. Angophora lanceolata. Apple-Wood. Feronia elephantum. Apricot. Prunus Armeniaca. The Apricot is a native of Central Asia, China, Japan, Armenia, and Arabia. In all these countries it is found in its native state, and is also exten- sively cultivated. The difference in the quality of this fruit in its wild and cultivated states is not so great as in most other fruits, nature having left less work for man to do in order to enjoy it in its highest condition. The fruit or pulp of the wild Apricot, however, does not compare with many of the cultivated varieties that have resulted from selections, yet it is a fair and wholesome fruit. The Apricot is extensively grown in China and Japan, and the natives employ it variously in the arts. The Persians also grow this fruit extensively ; so highly do they esteem it that they call it" the "Seed of the Sun." The Apricot was introduced into England in 1524 by Woolf, the gardener to Henry VIII. Parkinson (1629) mentions eight varieties. Since then many varieties have been added to the list which is by no means so extensive as that of other kinds of fruit. The ravages of the Curculio prevent the cultivation of this excellent fruit in some parts of this country ; but for that pest it could be produced in the greatest abundance at a very low price. Apterous. Without wings. Aqua'tic Plants. The culture of Aquatic Plants is most interesting, and is yearly becoming better understood. Many of the more tender sorts can be protected during winter, and give quantities of flowers during the summer and autumn months (see Nymphwa). A number of species of the following genera are well worthy of attention. Aponogeton, Butomus, Cyperus, Damasonium, Calla, Hottonia, Lim- nocharis, Menyanthes, Nelumbium, Nuphar, Nymphma, Ouvirandra, Pistia, Pontederia, Polygonum, Sagittaria, Salvinia, Thalia, Trapa, Typha, Villarsia, Victoria, etc. Aqua'ticus. Living in water. Aquatilis. Living under water. ARABIA RIEBOLDI. APIOS TCBEROKA. AUTHOXANTHTJM (SWEET VERNAL GRASS). ANTIRRHINUM ARECA BATJERI. AOECA SAPIDA. ARRHENATHF.RUM (TALL MEADOW OAT GKASS). 29 AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 29 AQU Aquifo'lia'ceae. The common Holly Tree Ilex Aquilfolium, is the type of this small natural order of shrubs and trees. The species may be said to possess in general, emetic qualities, variously modified in various instances. Bird- lime is obtained from the bark of the common Holly, and the beautiful white wood is much esteemed by cabinet-makers for inlaying. A decoction of Ilex vomitoria, called Black Drink, was used by the Creek Indians at the opening of their Councils, and it acts as a mild emetic. But the most celebrated pro- duct of the order is Mate, or Paraguay Tea, the dried leaves of Ilex Paraguariensis, which see. There are about 150 species, and the follow- ing genera Byronia, Ilex, and Nemopanthes. The order is sometimes known as Illicinece. Aquila'ria. Eagle Wood. From aquila, an eagle ; locally called Eagle-wood in Malacca, where it abounds. Nat. Ord. Aquilariacece. A small genus of tropical evergreen shrubs and trees. A. Agallocha, a large tree inhabit- ing Silket, and provided with alternate lanceo- late leaves, furnishes an odoriferous wood called Aloes-wood, or Eagle-wood. The wood contains an abundance of resin, and an essential oil, which is separated and highly esteemed as a perfume. The Orientals burn it in their temples for the sake of its slight fragrance, on which account it was used in the palace of Napoleon the First. Aquile'gia. Columbine. From aquila, an eagle ; alluding to the form of the petal. Nat. Ord. Ranunculaceos. Perennial herbaceous plants growing from one to three feet high, of which several species are very ornamental, especially, A. vulgaris, and its varieties. A. Canadensis is the wild Columbine of the United States. A, chry- santha, from the Rocky Mountains, has canary-colored flowers, contrasting finely with the blue A. alpina and A. ccerulea. There are also many beautiful hybrids, as well as species in cultivation. They are of easy cultivation and are propagated by seeds, or by division of the root. A'rabis. Rock Cress. From Arabia ; probably in reference to the dry situations where many of the species grow. Nat. Ord. Cruciferw. An extensive genus of annual or perennial herbaceous plants, bearing white or, rarely, purple flowers, A. alping, has white flowers, which, in its native country, appear in March ; and A. albida flowers the greater part of the year, commencing in mild winters in January, and producing its large tufts of white blossoms till October. Some of the species and vari- eties, such as .A. verna, A. alpi^jiana, and A. bellidifolia, do not grow above three inches high, and are admirable plants for rock- work. Ara'ceae or Aro'ideae. An extensive genus of herbaceous plants with numerous unisexual or hermaphrodite flowers, closely packed upon a spadix, shielded when young by the hooded leaf called a spathe, as is seen in the common Indian Turnip, Arisamia triphyllum. They are common in tropical countries, but rare in those with a cold or temperate climate. Most of them have tuberous rhizomes, but some acquire the stature of small trees, the most interesting of which is the Dumb Cane a species of Dieffenbachia, others as Philo- dendron and Monstera have scrambling stems ARA by which they attach themselves to the trunks of trees. The tuberous species all contain starch in such abundance that it may be separated in the form of arrow-root, and used as food, only however, after very careful washing to remove the acrid juices; and the Colocasias are grown as an article of food in hot countries as common field crops. Scarcely more than 200 species are known, • Caladium, Richardia, Arum, Amorphophallus, etc., are examples of this order. A'rachis. Peanut. From a, privative, and rachis, a branch; a branchless plant. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A. hypog&a (underground), the only species, is the Peanut of our shops. It is a native of the West Indies and Western Africa, but has become generally cultivated in all warm climates as an article of food, to be eaten like other nuts, or as food for swine. It is also largely cultivated in the East Indies and Cochin China for the oil obtained from the seeds, which is thin and of a straw color, resembling the finer kinds of olive oil. It is said to be of a superior quality, and for table use preferable to the best olive oil. It is free from stearine, and is used by watchmakers and others for delicate machinery. The plant is an annual, of a trailing habit, with yellow, pea- shaped flowers, produced from the axils of the leaves in bunches of five or seven, close to or even under the ground. They should be grown in a light, sandy soil, and the stems covered lightly with earth when in flower, as the seeds are only ripened under ground. The peanut is profitably grown in nearly all of the Southern States. A'rachnis. Name from the Greek : a spider. Nat. Ord. Orchidacem. A small genus of very curious and interest- ing epiphytal orchids from Java ; deriving * their name from their extraordinary resem- blance to a spider. A. moschifera, the best known species, is a very peculiar plant, some- what like a Renanthera in habit. The flowers are large, creamy white, or lemon-color, with purple spots ; they are delicately scented with musk, and continue in perfection a long time. Arachnoid. Resembling a cob-web in appear- ance. Ara'lia. A name of unknown meaning. Nat. Ord. Araliacm. This genus consists of trees, herbs and shrubs, mostly of an ornamental character, but of no value as flowering plants. The roots, of A. nudicaulis, one of our native species is largely sold for sarsaparilla. A. racemosa, is our beautiful Spikenard, much esteemed for its medicinal properties. A. spinosa, one of our native shrubs or low trees, is common in cultivation, and is known as the Angelica Tree and Hercules Club. A. papyrifera, which assumes a tree form, grows in great quantities in the deep, swampy forests of the island of Formosa. The stems of this species are filled with pith of a very fine texture, from which is manufactured the celebrated rice paper of the Chinese, which is chiefly used in making artifi- cial flowers. A. Sieboldi (Syn. Fatsiajaponica) has large leathery, deep green leaves and is much used in sub-tropical and window gar- dening; a very beautiful variegated variety of this species is in cultivation. The vari- ous species with much divided leaves in- 30 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS ABA troduced from the South Sea Islands, such as A. Veitchii, A. reticulata, A. gracillima, etc., are extremely beautiful and admirably suited for the warm green-house and for table decoration. Ara'lia'ceae. These form a small natural order closely approaching Umbellifers, from which they in reality differ in little, except in their fruit. They are also more generally arbores- cent, many of them being trees or large shrubsj and very few herbs. Several are conspicuous for their broad, noble foliage. The species are found in the tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world, and in some of the coldest, as in Canada, the northwest coast of America, and Japan. Aralia polaris even occurs in Lord Auckland's Islands, in 50^° south latitude. Hedera, Panax and Aralia, are examples of this order. Arauca'ria. From araucanos, its name among the people in whose country the Araucaria imbricata grows in Chili. Nat. Ord. Coniferce. The genus consists of lofty evergreen trees, none of which will bear the open air of the climate of the Northern States. The most beautiful of the species is A. excelsa, from Norfolk Island, where it is known as Norfolk Island Pine. It grows to the height of 200 feet. Its symmetrical growth and deep green, finely-cut foliage give it a fern-like appear- ance. All the species are fine ornaments for the lawn during summer, but require the protec- tion of the green-house during winter. Propagation can be effected by cuttings, though a slow and uncertain process. They grow readily from seed. Arauja, is given by Bentham and Hooker as the correct name of the genus Physianthus. Arborescent. Having a tendency to become a tree. Arboretum. A collection of hardy trees formed for pleasure or instruction, and which, when well managed, is a source of much interesting study. They afford shelter, improve the local climate, renovate bad soils, etc., and also by concealing or hiding disagreeable objects, heighten the effect of agreeable ones, create beauty, and add value. A properly arranged Arboretum should be constructed with a view to picturesque beauty and not systematically, as is usually the case in Botanic Gardens, although scientific purposes are best served by a systematic arrangement. Arbor Vitae. A common name for Thuja. A'rbutus. Strawberry-tree. From arboise, a Celtic word for rough fruit. Nat. Ord. Ericaceae. A genus of evergreen shrubs or low growing trees, numbering about twenty species, natives of southern Europe, the Canary Islands, Chili, and in some parts of this country. A. unedo is called the strawberry-tree from its fruit resembling a strawberry at a distance. It is a small tree from ten to twenty feet high. Flowers numerous, white, appearing in September or October. Fruit scarlet, ripen- ing the second year. This fine evergreen is common in southern Europe, and is also met about the lakes of Killarney, in Ireland. The fruit of this species, when eaten in quantites is said to be narcotic. A wine is made from it in Corsica, but it has the same property as the fruit. In Spain both a sugar and a spirit are ABE obtained from it. The bark and leaves of the same plant are used as astringents ; in some parts of Greece they are employed in tanning leather. It is cultivated, where the climate will permit, as an ornamental shrub, and as it ripens its fruit the second year, it is particularly beautiful in October and Novem- ber, being covered at the same time with blossoms and ripe fruit. Archange'lica. From arche, chief, and angelica, from its supposed virtues. Nat. Ord. Umbelli- ferce. A genus of mostly useless biennial plants; a few of the species are natives of this country. A. officinalis, is the Angelica, formerly much used in domestic medicine. Archego'nium. The female organ in ferns, etc. Analogous with the ovary in flowering plants. Archill or Orchill. A coloring matter obtained from various species of Lichens, especially Rocella tinctoria. A'rctium. A name that is now employed by some botanists for the genus Lappa, Burdock. Arctosta'phylos. Bearberry. From arktos, a bear, and staphyle, a berry ; the Greek of the popular name. Nat. Ord. Ericace.ce,. A small genus of fruit-bearing shrubs, com- mon in our Northern and Eastern States. The whole plant of A. Uva-urai is astringent, and has been used for tanning leather. The berries of the several species are a favorite food of game birds. Arcto'tis. Derived from arktos, a bear, and ous, an ear ; shaggy fruit. Nat. Ord. Composite. This genus consists of annuals, biennials, and green-house perennials. The annuals should be started in the hot-bed early, as they require a long season to develop their showy flowers, which are sulphur and orange. They grow freely in ordinary soil, and keep in bloom until killed by frost. Introduced from the Cape of Good Hope in 1774. Arcuate. Curved or bent like a bow ; forming an arch. Ardi'sia. From ardis, a spear head ; in refer- ence to the sharp-pointed divisions of the flower. Nat. Ord. Myrsinacem. Handsome green-house plants from the East Indies, producing either red or white flowers. A. crenulata is admired alike for its white flowers and vermilion berries, being constantly covered with either one or the other, or both. Propagated by seeds in the green-house. Plants usually fruit when one year old, and are invaluable plants for winter decoration. There is also a pretty white-fruited variety. Ardui'na. A genus of Apocynacea,, consisting of shrubs with a milky juice. Natives of Asia, Africa and tropical Australia. A. bispin- osa is a pretty, close-growing green-house shrub, with small, box-like leaves and white, sweet-scented flowers. A. grandifiora is a native of Natal, where the fruits are much valued, and known as the Natal Plum. They have an agreeable sub-acid flavor, and are used to make an excellent preserve. Are'ca. Called areec in Malabar, when an old tree. Nat. Ord. Palmaceai. An extensive genus of lofty, magnificent Palms, natives of the East and West Indies and South America. The most prominent of the species is A. oleracea, the Cabbage Palm. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 31 ARE This is one of the most beautiful and stately of the Palm tribe, and is called in some of the tropical islands the Royal Palmetto. The stem of a full-sized tree at the base is seven feet in circumference, and it rises to the enormous height of one hundred and thirty feet. A noted traveler, in his description of this tree, says : " Near the base, the trunk is of a brown color, hard, woody, and jointed, with a pith inside like the elder. The upper part of the trunk, from whence the foliage springs, resembles a well-turned, finely-polished bal- uster, of a lively green color, gently swelling from its pedestal, and diminishing gradually to the top, where it expands into branches, waving like plumes of ostrich feathers. These are decorated with numerous leaflets, some of which are about three feet long, and an inch and a half broad, tapering into a sharp point. The leaflets gradually decrease in size as they approach the extremities of the branches. This lofty, regular group of foliage, impelled by the most gentle gale, and constantly wav- ing in feathery elegance, is an object of beauty which cannot be imagined by an inhabitant of temperate climes, unused to the magnificent vegetation of a tropical sun. Within the leaves, which constitute the summit of the trunk, the portion called the cabbage lies con- cealed. This substance is white, about two feet long, of cylindrical form, and the thick- ness of a man's arm. It is composed of longi- tudinal flakes like ribbons, and so compact as to form a solid, crisp body. When eaten raw, it tastes somewhat like the almond, but more tender and delicious. When cut into slices and boiled, it is served up with meat as a vegetable. To obtain this great delicacy — growing on the very summit of such a stately trunk — the noble tree must be felled to the ground. In the place where the cabbage grew, a species of beetle generally deposits its eggs, from which, in due time, grubs are hatched, that have received the name of Palm-tree Worms. They are about the size of a man's thumb, very fat and esteemed a great lux- ury. They are fried with a little butter and salt, and their flavor partakes of all the spices of India. A. catechu, is a handsome tree cul- tivated in all the warmer parts of Asia for its fruits, known as Areca or Betel nuts. These nuts are cut into narrow pieces, which are rolled up with a little lime in the leaves of the Betel pepper. The pellet is then chewed, and is hot and acrid, but possesses aromatic and astringent properties, and is considered bene- ficial rather than otherwise. The natives are so addicted to the practice that they would rather go without food than their favorite Areca nuts. Arena'ria. Sandwort. From arena, sand; in reference to the sandy soil in which the plants grow. Nat. Ord. Caryophyllacem. A large genus of diminutive weeds, usually found growing on sandy soils. Are'nga. Name not explained. Nat. Ord. PaU maceoe. A. saccharifera, is a very useful and inter- esting Palm, a native of the Asiatic islands. In its native country the fibres attached to the petioles are twisted into ropes, the me- dulla of the trunk is used as sago, and the saccharine juice forms excellent sugar. It is said that this species alone will supply all the ARI actual needs of the native: food, clothing, and a simple hut made from the leaves, are all supplied from this species, and are all. that a native's necessities require. Known also as Saguerus saccharifer. Areolate. Divided off into distinct spaces, usu- ally more or less angular. The skin of a plant is areolate. Arethu'sa. A classical name, after one of Diana's nymphs. Nat. Ord. Orchidaceoz. , A. bulbosa is a beautiful species found growing in damp places and bogs, Virginia to Maine, and northward. The flowers are a bright rose-purple, from one to two inches long. One of the prettiest of our native Orchids. Arga'nia. From or gam, its aboriginal name. Nat. Ord. Sapotacece. A. Sideroxylon, the Argal tree ; or Iron Wood, is a remarkable evergreen tree, a native of Morocco. It has a spiny trunk of con- siderable size, but of low stature. It gives off branches at a few feet from the ground, which incline downwards until they rest upon the earth; at length, at a considerable distance from the trunk, they ascend, and again reach out to a long distance. A tree mentioned in the Journal of Botany, measured sixteen feet only in height, while its circumference was 220 feet. The wood is very hard, and so heavy as to sink in water. Argemo'ne. Prickly Poppy. From argema, a cataract of the eye ; in reference to its medi- cinal qualities. Nat. Ord. Papaveracece. Highly ornamental hardy annuals and peren- nials from Mexico, with large flowers like those of the Poppy, and of the easiest culture. The plants, spreading widely, require a good deal of room to look handsome. The seed of A. Mexicana is the Fico del Inferno (Infernal Fig) of the Spaniards ; a purgative and power- ful narcotic, especially if smoked with tobacco. Argenteus. Silvery, a pale color resembling silver. Argyre'ia. Named in reference to the white, silvery texture of the leaves, from argyreios, silvery. Nat. Ord. Convolvulacem. A fine genus of strong-growing climbers from the East Indies. They are only adapted for the green-house, and require a long time, with liberal pot room, to bring them into flower. A. cuneata is a dwarf-growing, free- flowering species, colors white and purple, resembling the Ipomoza. Propagated by cut- tings. Introduced in 1822. Aril, Arillus. A fleshy growth which rises up from the placenta and encompasses the seed, like the Mace surrounding the Nutmeg, and the red sac the Euonymus. Arisae'ma. Indian Turnip. Dragon Arum. From aron, Arum, and sana, a standard; in reference to the close affinitv to Arum. Nat. Ord. Aroidece. A genus of hardy tuberous-rooted peren- nials. Two of the species, A. triphyllum, the Indian Turnip, and A. Dracontium, the Green Dragon or Dragon Root, are common in moist woods and along streams in most parts of the United States. They bear cultivation well, and make beautiful plants for a shady border. The flowers are popularly known as Jack-in- the-Pulpit. These are succeeded by a cluster of scarlet berries, that make a showy appear- 32 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS ARI ance until winter. The biting, acrid properties of this genus are such that the smallest por- tion chewed, either of leaves or root, produces a feeling as if the tongue were pierced with needles. Aristate. Having a beard or awn, as the glumes of barley. Ari'stea. From arista, a point or beard; in reference to the rigid points of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Iridacece. A genus of tender herbaceous perennials from the Cape of Good Hope, embracing about fifteen species. They vary in height from three inches to three feet and produce their interesting blue flowers all summer. Easily propagated by division or seeds. Aristi'da. From arista, a beard or awn. Nat. Ord. Graminacem. A genus of harsh perennial grasses, com- mon on dry, barren soils throughout the United States. A. dichotoma is commonly known as Poverty Grass, as it is a sure indication of poor and barren soil. A. strictais the Southern Wiregrass. Ari'stolo'chia. Birthwort. From aristos, best, and locheia, parturition, its supposed medi- cinal character. Nat. Ord. Aristolochiacem. A genus of climbing plants natives princi- pally of South America, a few species being found in North America, Europe and India. Most of them extend their branches a long distance, though some are to be found that are neat and compact in their growth. The flowers of all are extremely curious, generally of some lurid color, and bearing a resemblance to the expanded mouth of a horn. The larger ones have, not inaptly, been compared to the ear of an elephant, while others are distinguished by a long, pendant pouch. The tender species require either the hot-house or green-house, and a few are sufficiently robust to bear ex- posure to our winters. They grow freely in rich loam and leaf mould. A. sipho (Dutch- man's Pipe) is a native of the Southern States, and one of the best climbers for covering walls or trellises; under favorable circum- stances it will grow twenty feet in a season. The foliage is large, of a deep, rich green; it is propagated by seed, layers, or cuttings, and is perfectly hardy. A. serpentaria, the Virginian Snake Root, is well known for its aromatic-stimulant root, and is used in medi- cine. Ari'stolochia'ceae. In the tropical parts of both hemispheres, and occasionally beyond those limits, occurs a race of plants with singularly inflated, irregular flowers, consisting of a calyx only, of a dull, dingy color, varying from yellow to shades of chocolate, purple, or brown, and often emitting an offensive odor. A hot summer appears to be one condition of their existence, with a few exceptions, the most striking of which are the Asarums, little stemless plants, natives of Europe and North America. Aristote'lia. A genus of evergreen shrubs of the Nat. Ord. Tiliacew. A. Macqui is esteemed for its handsome foliage. The berries are purple, becoming black with age and are edible. The wood is used in Chili for making musical instruments, its tough bark forming the strings. The varie- gated form is a very ornamental plant. ARR Arme'niaca. The Apricot. Primus Armeniaca. Arme'ria. Thrift. The Latin name for the Sweet William. Nat. Ord. Plumbaginacew. A genus of highly ornamental, hardy herba- ceous plants, of dwarf habit, with flowers of various shades between pink and purple, pro- duced on the majority of the species in great profusion. The common Thrift, A. vulgaris, is a well-known substitute for Box as an edging to flower borders. They grow with freedom in almost any soil, and without regard to situ- ation, except that the drip of trees is injurious to most of them. Propagated by division. Exceedingly common on the rocky sea coasts of Britain. Several pretty varieties have been introduced into cultivation, especially a gar- den variety called Crimson Gem, with large heads of bright crimson-pink flowers, and tufted habit. Arne'bia. Handsome, hardy herbaceous per- ennials of the Nat. Ord. Boraginaceai; allied to Lithospermum. A. echioides is one of the showiest hardy plants for the herbaceous border or rock- garden. Flowers bright primrose yellow, with a purplish spot, borne in large terminal spikes. A'rnica. From arnakis, a lamb's skin ; in ref- erence to the texture of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Composite. A small genus of hardy, dwarf herbaceous plants. Some of the species are common in this country, though not of special interest. A. montana is a native of the mountainous dis- tricts of Northern and Middle Europe. The tincture of Arnica is prepared from this species ; was first introduced by the homce- opathists, and soon after came into general use, and is considered invaluable for wounds or bruises. Arno'tto, or Ana'tto. See Bixa Orellano. Aromatic Winter green. See Gaultheria. Aroni'cum. From arnikis, a lamb's skin ; in ref- ence to the softness of the flower-heads. Nat. Ord. Composite. A small genus of pretty herbaceous peren- nials, inhabiting Central Europe and Asia. They have flower stalks varying from three inches to two feet high, with terminal heads of bright, yellow flowers. A. Clusii, a pretty little Alpine species growing from three to five inches high, is well adapted for a border plant or for rock-work. They are increased by division, or from seed. Syn. Doronicum Clusii., From arpe, a scimitar, and phyllon, a leaf ; the leaf is sword-shaped. Arpophy'llum. Nat. Ord. Orchidacea. A small genus of handsome Orchids from Mexico and New Grenada. They are of grace- ful habit, easy of culture, and the flowers last long in perfection. They are inci-eased by division, and should be grown rapidly to pro- duce large bulbs, as small ones do not flower. Arrhena'therum. Oat-grass. From arrhen, a male, and anther, a point ; on account of awns on the male spikes. Nat. Ord. Graminacece,. A small genus of strong growing grasses, occasionally cultivated in this country as a pasture grass and for hay ; it is not supposed to be very rich in nutritive matter, but is considered valuable in mixture with other grasses for moist meadows, as it produces a AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 33 ARR plentiful supply of early foliage, which is eaten with avidity by cattle. It is a trouble- some grass with other crops. Arrow Cane. Gynerium saggitatum. Arrow Grass. Triglochin palustre. Arrow-head. Chinese. Sagittaria Chinensis. Common. Sagittaria sagittcefolia. Arrow Poison. Gaboon or Trop. Africa. Stro- phanthus hispidus. Guiana, Curari or Curali. Strychnos toxifera. Javanese. Strychnos Tiente. Malay. Aniiaris toxicaria. Arrow-root. A pure kind of starch employed for dietary and other purposes, obtained from various sources, the principal of which are the following : American. Zea mays. Bermuda. Maranta arundinacea. Brazilian or Tapioca. Manihot utilissima Chinese. Nelumbium speciosum. E. Indian. Curcuma angustifolia, and other species. English. Solanum tuberosum. Mexican. Dion edule. Portland. Arum maculatum. Arrow-wood. American. Viburnum dentatum. Californian. Viburnum ellipticum. British Columbian. Spiraea Douglassi, S. opulifolia. Artane'ma. An interesting genus of plants belonging to the Nat. Ord. Scrophulariacece. A. fimbriatum (closely allied to Torenia) is a handsome evergreen shrub with large funnel-shaped, fringed, blue flowers, bloom- ing from June to November. It was intro- duced from Moreton Bay, New Holland, in 1830, and is readily increased by cuttings or seeds. Art'anthe. Derivation of name not given. Nat. Ord. Piperacea,. A small genus belonging to the Pepper family. They are woody plants, with jointed stems, rough leaves, and spikes of flowers opposite the leaves. A. elongata furnishes one of the articles known by the Peruvians as Matico, and which is used by them for the same purpose as Cubebs, the produce of a nearly-allied plant ; but its chief value is the power it has of staunching blood. The un- der-surface of the leaf is rough, traversed by a network of projecting veins, and covered with hairs ; hence its effect in stopping hem- orrhage is probably mechanical, like that of lint, cobweb, and other commonly used ap- pliances. The species are not esteemed valu- able as flowering plants. Placed by some authors under Piper. Artemi'sia. Wormwood. From Artemis, one of the names of Diana. Nat. Ord. Composite. Shrubby or herbaceous plants with their leaves usually muchdiyided and frequently of a grey color. The genu's is widely distributed over the temperate regions of the globe and most of them are remarkable for their strong odor and bitter taste. In certain parts of the West, as Utah, Texas, New Mexico, etc., there are large tracts almost entirely destitute of other vegetation than that afforded by various kinds of Artemisia which cover vast plains, and give them an universal greyish green hue. They are unfortunately of no value for forage. ART This genus contains amongst others the well known Southern wood or Old Man, A. Abro- tanum, the finely divided leaves of which have a fragrant aromatic odor. A. Absinthium,the common Wormwood, possesses aromatic, bitter, and tonic properties and was formerly much used as a vermifuge ; it is also in con- nection with several species growing in Switz- erland and used in the manufacture of the bitter aromatic tonic " Extrait d' Absinthe." The Tarragon, A. Dracunculus, differs from the majority of its fellows, in that its leaves are undivided, they are narrow, of a bright green color and possess a peculiar aromatic flavor much valued in Salads, etc. Native of Siberia. The Chinese Chrysanthemums are fre- quently miscalled Artemisias. Arthropo'dium. From arthron, a joint, and pous, a foot; the foot-stalks of the flowers being jointed. A genus of Australian and New Zealand Liliacece allied to Anthericum, with grass-like leaves, and purplish or white flow- ers in loose racemes. Arthroste'mma. From arthron, a joint, and stemon, a stamen, in reference to the stamens being jointed. Stove or green-house, ever- green shrubs, from Central America, belong- ing to the Nat. Ord. Melastomacem. Some of the species are very handsome, with rose or lilac flowers, resembling the Rhexias. Propagated by cuttings. A'rtichoke. The Cynara scolymus, the Globe Artichoke of gardens, is a hardy perennial, growing from three to four feet in height, with numerous branches. The leaves meas- ure from three to four feet in length, pinnati- fid, or cut in deep, horizontal, convex seg- ments, which are covered with an ash-colored down, the whole plant resembling a large Thistle. The portion eaten is the under side of the 'head, before the flower opens. The whole head is removed and boiled, the leaves laid aside, and the bottom eaten, dipped in butter, with a little pepper and salt. The Artichoke is a supposed native of the south of Europe. The first account of its cultivation was in Italy, in 1473, and from that period, when it was said to be very scarce, it has steadily grown in favor, and its cultivation extended. The artichoke thrives best in a light, very rich, moist soil. One containing a large proportion of saline properties suits it best. Propagated by seeds or by suckers from established plants. The Jerusalem Arti- choke is in no sense a true Artichoke, but the tuberous root of a species of Sunflower, Heli- anthus tuberosus, a native of the north-western States, the north-western British Possessions and Canada. Its nativity has generally been credited to Brazil, without any good author- ity ; on the contrary, there is abundant proof that it abounds in a wild state in the localities above-named. Its cultivation is now strongly recommended on dry soils, liable to excessive droughts. It is said that 1,500 bushels per acre can be produced, upon which swine will thrive finely, the tubers furnishing sufficient water to allay thirst. They also furnish excel- lent food for sheep. Some agriculturists claim that the tops, cut and properly cured, form an excellent hay, with a yield of five or six tons to the acre. Articulated. Jointed, having joints. 34 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS ART Artillery Plant. See Pilea serpillifolia and P. hemiaricefolia. Artocarpa'ceae. A group of apetalous trees, not unlike the Plane-trees of Europe ; but for the most part inhabiting the tropics. They abound in a milky juice, and have, forthe most part, their female flowers collected into fleshy masses or heads. Moreover, they have great sheathing, convolute stipules, like those of a Fig-tree. This natural order presents strange anomalies : the invaluable Bread-fruit tree of the tropics, the useful Cow-tree of Caraccas, and the virulent poison of the Upas-tree of Java, side by side. The more important genera are Artocarpus and Antiaris. Artoca'rpus. Bread Fruit. From artos, bread, and carpos, fruit ; the fruit baked resembles bread. Nat. Ord. Artocarpacece. A. incisa, the Bread-fruit, originally found in the southeastern parts of Asia and the islands of the Pacific, though now intro- duced into the West Indies and South Amer- ica, is one of the most interesting as well as singular productions of the vegetable king- dom. The Bread-fruit is a beautiful as well as a useful tree. The trunk rises to the height of about forty feet, and, in a full-grown tree, is from twelve to fifteen inches in diam- eter ; the branches come out in a horizontal manner, the lower ones about ten feet from the ground, and they become shorter and shorter until they reach the top, giving the tree an appearance of perfect symmetry. The leaves are of a lively green, divided into seven or nine lobes, from eighteen inches to two feet long. The fruit is about nine inches long, heart-shaped, of a greenish color, and marked with hexagonal warts in clusters. The pulp is white, partly farinaceous and partly fibrous; but when quite ripe it becomes yellow and juicy. The Bread-fruit furnishes the chief sustenance of the inhabitants of the Society and South Sea Islands, and is used to a con- siderable extent in the West Indies. It is usually cut into pieces, and roasted or baked in ovens on the ground heated by hot stones. Arum. From aron; supposed to be an ancient Egyptian word. Nat. Ord. Aroidew. There are several interesting species con- tained in this genus which may be accounted pretty additions to the collections of the hot- house and green-house, though the flowers possess a disagreeable odor. In contrast with the other species is A. Palestinum, that has flowers of deep crimson, with a delicious fra- grance not unlike the Violet. In shape it resembles the Calla Lily, Richardia JEthiopica ; in fact, when it was introduced, in 1876, into the United State3, it was under the name of "Crimson Calla." Numerous offsets are annually produced, by which the species are extended. A. Sanctum, the Black Calla, a late introduction (1887) from the Holy Land, is described as " producing large, sweet-scented flowers, rising above the leaves on a slender but vigorous stalk, of a brown-red color at the lower part and green at the upper end. The spathe is from fourteen to eighteen inches long and four inches wide, of a brilliant dark purple color and green underneath. The spadix is about ten inches long, velvet-like, and quite black. The whole plant is most stately and elegant in appearance." A. Dra- cunculus, the Dragon Arum, deserves a place ASA in the flower garden forits large, very remark- able flowers. This species requires the same treatment as the Gladiolus. The roots of all this natural order, when green, contain a milky fluid, which is exceedingly acrid, exciting a painful sensation of burning heat in the tongue and mouth. When cut in slices and applied to the skin, it will very quickly produce a blister. This same active principle is not confined to the roots of the various genera and species, but is found in the leaves as well. A piece of the Calla leaf, not larger than a pin's head, if taken into the mouth.will produce violent and painful burnings. Some of the species yield an excellent quality of Arrow-root. Arum Lily. Richardia JEthiopica. Spotted Leaved. Richardia maculata. Yellow. Richardia hastata. Arundina'ria. An alteration of the word Arundo, to which this genus may be compared in refer- ence to its large size. Nat. Ord. GraminacecB. A genus of grasses of a shrubby or arbo- rescent nature, with strong- jointed stems, resembling those of the Bamboo cane. They are mostly from the warmer parts of the globe, and in some instances attain a great size. A. falcata is one of the hardiest kinds, and is very ornamental in the sub-tropical garden. This species will endure the winter without protection, from Washington, southward. A. Schomburgkii, a native of Guiana, is an import- ant species. The canes grow sixteen feet high, with a diameter at the base of from twelve to eighteen inches. It is this plant that chiefly furnishes the native Indians with the tubes from which they blow their poisonous arrows, which act with such fatal effect on their vic- tims. A. gigantea and A. tecta, two species found in the Southern and Western States, from Florida to Indiana, form canes from ten to twenty feet high and are now much used by florists for plant stakes, the toughest and best of which come from Indiana. Aru'ndo. Reed. A word of doubtful deriva- tion, perhaps from the Latin word arundo, a reed. Nat. Ord. Graminacece. A. Donax is a splendid Bamboo-looking reed, rather tender in severe winters, but which, if the season be favorable, will grow, in rich soil kept moist, to the height of ten or twelve feet in one year, producing a fine oriental appear- ance when standing singly on a lawn or near water. This variety is a native of Southern Europe, introduced in 1648, and for many years has been an inmate of our flower gar- dens. A. Donax variegata, a variety with leaves beautifully striped in different colors, similar to those of the common Ribbon-grass of our gardens, is one of the most beautiful plants for the sub-tropical garden. It re- quires, however, the protection of the green- house during winter in our Northern States. It is propagated by division of the roots, and will succeed in ordinary garden soil. Asafce'tida plant. Narthex asafcetida. Asafce'tida plant, Persian. Ferula Persica. Asaraba'cca. A common name for Asarum Europmum. A'sarum. Wild Ginger. From a, private, and saron, feminine ; the application of the term unexplained. Nat. Ord. Aristolochiaceai. AND GENERAL" HORTICULTURE. 35 ASC A genus of rather curious hardy herbaceous perennials, common in most parts of the United States, usually in rich, moist woods. They are highly esteemed for their medicinal properties. A. Canadense is the Canada Snake- root or Wild Ginger. It is recognized by its single pair of broad, kidney-shaped leaves, and a single large, brownish-purple flower on a short peduncle, sometimes nearly buried. The roots are pungent and aromatic. Ascending. Directed upwards ; as the stem, which is the ascending axis. Ascle'piada'ceae. The very large natural order which bears this name is known by its pollen being collected in the form of waxy masses or bags, derived from the separable inner lining of the anther cells, and by the fruit consisting most commonly of a pair of divaricating in- flated seed-pods. Fully 1,000 species are known, for the most part inhabiting the tropics of the Old and New Worlds. They vary extremely in appearance, many being leafless succulents, like Stapelia; others (and they are more numerous) consisting of twiners like Hoya; while another portion consists of upright herbaceous plants, such as Asclepias and Vincetoxicum ; a few are tropical trees. As a general rule the species are poisonous ; an acrid milk which pervades all their parts being eminently emetic and purgative. The genera Stapelia, Hoya, Ascle- pias, Vincetoxicum, Ceropegia and Periploca, are good examples of the order. Ascle'pias. Milkweed. The Greek name of the JEsculapius of the Latins. Nat. Ord. Ascle- pia&acew. An extensive genus of tall-growing plants, mostly of a hardy herbaceous character, remarkable for their curious flowers and the silky substance which fills the seed-pod. The most ornamental native species is A. tuberosa, which has fine orange-colored flowers but is somewhat difficult to cultivate. A. Mexicana, white, and A. Curassavica, orange -scarlet, both tender species, are excellent plants for the mixed border in summer; the former is especially valuable for cut flowers. They are all easily raised from seeds. A'scyrum. From a, without, and skyros, hard ; that is to say, a plant that is soft to the touch. Nat. Ord. Hypericaceaz. A genus of elegant little herbs and sub- shrubs numbering five species, all of them American with a distribution from the North- ' em States to New Grenada. A. Crux Andrew, is called St. Andrew's Cross from the circum- ference of the four pale yellow petals approach- ing each other in pairs, they appear like a cross with equal arms. Collectively they are called St. John's-worts. Ash. American Black or Water. Fraxinus sambucifolia. Black Mountain. Eucalyptus Leucoxylon. Blue. Fraxinus quadrangulata. Cape. Ekebergia Capensis. Carolina Water. Fraxinus platycarpa. Chinese. Fraxinus Chinensis. Common. Fraxinus excelsior. Flowering. Fraxinus Omus. Gray. Fraxinus Americana var. cinerea. Ground . ^SSgopodium podograria, and Angelica sylvestris. Hoop. Celtis cras8ifolia. ASP Ash. Jerusalem. Isatis tinctoria, or Reseda luteola. Manna. Fraxinus Omus var. rotundifolia. Mountain or Wild. English. Pyrus aucuparia. Mountain. N. American. Pyrus Americana. Northern Prickly. Xanthoxylum Americanum. Oregon. Fraxinus Oregana. Poison. Rhus Venenata. Prickly. Xanthoxylum fraxineum. Red American. Fraxinus pubescens. Southern Prickly. Xanthoxylum Carolinianum. Wafer. Ptelea trifoliata. Water. Fraxinus sambucifolia. White. Fraxinus Americana var. alba. Ash-keys, or Ash Candles. The fruit of Fraxi- nus excelsior. Ash-leaved Maple. Acer Negundo. Asiatic Poison Bulb. Crinum Asiaticum. Asi'mina. Papaw. Named from Asiminier of - the French colonists. Nat. Ord. Anonacem. A. triloba, the only species, is a low-grow- ing tree or shrub, common in the Western and Southern States, where it is popularly known as Papaw. The fruit is from three to four inches long, yellowish, and when fully ripe is by many highly esteemed. Aspa'ragus. From a, intensive, and spar- asso, to tear; in reference to the strong prickles of some species. Nat. Ord. IAliacem. Of this extensive genus of hardy herbaceous and green-house plants, the common garden Asparagus, A. officinalis, is the best known species. There are, however, several green- house climbing species, natives of Southern Africa, that have of late years been cultivated for decorative purposes, and well deserve a place in every collection, however small. Of these A. tenuissimus is the most largely cul- tivated as it is easily increased by cuttings, and its foliage is remarkable for its extreme slenderness, and delicate appearance. A. plu- mosus, and its variety A. p. nanus, are most elegant plants, with smooth stems, and grace- fully arching, fine filmy foliage, rivalling the delicate beauty of the finest Maiden-hair Ferns, while their cut sprays have the advantage of much greater persistency than any fern, re- taining their freshness in water from three to four weeks. They also form excellent plants for the green-house, when trained in pots, and are invaluable for cutting. They aire un- fortunately slow of propagation being in- creased only by seeds, or by division. They were introduced to cultivation in 1876. The Garden Asparagus, A. officinalis, is a native of Great Britain, Russia, and Poland. In many other parts of Europe it is found growing wild, but is probably an escape in many localities, and is perfectly naturalized, as it is sparingly on our own coasts. The Aspar- agus is one of the oldest as well as one of the most delicious of our garden vegetables. It was cultivated in the time of Cato the Elder, 200 years B. C. ; and Pliny mentions a sort that grew in his time near Ravenna, of which three heads would weigh a pound. From these accounts it would appear that there is nothing new under the sun in the line of Asparagus. Many of our best gardeners con- tend that adaptation of soil, together with thorough cultivation, alone explains the difference in this vegetable, as offered in our markets, but we feel satisfied that there are 36 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS ASP varieties in Asparagus, as well as in other vegetables, and such selections as Conover's Colossal, and the Palmetto, are undoubted improvements on the original sort. Its value and importance as a Vegetable can hardly be over-estimated, it is extensively grown and when properly managed produces a lucrative crop. The preparation of the Asparagus bed should be made with more care than for most vegetables, from the fact that it is a perma- nent crop, which ought to yield as well at the end of twenty-five as of five years, if the soil has been well prepared. The Asparagus bed, to start with, should be on ground thor- oughly drained, either naturally or artificially, and if choice can be had, on a rather light, sandy loam. This should be trenched and mixed with sufficient manure to form a coat- ing at least six inches thick over the bed. This manure should be worked into the soil by trenching to the depth of two feet, as the root6 of the plant will reach quite that depth in a few years. In setting, the crowns of the plants should be placed at least three inches below the surface. Asparagus may be planted either in the spring or the fall. If in the spring, it should be done as early as the ground is dry enough to work ; and if in the fall, just as soon as the plants can be had, which is usually in the early part of October. We prefer fall planting on light, well-drained soils, for the reason that, if it is done then, young roots are formed which are ready to grow on the approach of spring ; but if the planting is done in March, April, or May, this formation of new roots has to take place then, and causes a corresponding delay in growth. Plants are sold by market gardeners and seeds- men ; and as it will save a year or two to pur- chase them, it is not worth while to raise them from seed in a private garden. The edible portion is the undeveloped stems, which, if cut away as soon as they appear, are followed by others, which start from the crown of the plant. The cutting, if continued too long, would finally exhaust the root ; hence it is customary to stop cutting as soon as early peas become plenty, and allow the remaining shoots to grow during the rest of the season, and thus accumulate sufficient strength in the plant to allow it to produce another crop of shoots the next season. The surface of the Asparagus bed should have a top dressing of three or four inches of rough stable manure every fall (November), which should be lightly forked into the bed in the spring. The variety mostly grown is the Colossal, although the new French variety, known as the Palmetto, is likely to supersede it, its merit being that the shoots grow more uniformly large than the Colossal. In some localities Asparagus is attacked by an insect called the Asparagus Beetle. The best method of getting rid of this pest, that we have found, is to coop up a hen, and let the chickens eat the insects and their eggs. Asparagus can also be forced to advantage if brought into market before March. By that time Florida begins to supply our mar- kets in quantity, and the price depreciates. Strong, healthy young plants, three to four years old, are best suited for this purpose, and should be sown yearly and grown on in succession, on the surface plan ; that is, not ASP planted deep in the ground as for permanent beds. The general management for forcing is similar to that required for Rhubarb. See article on " Forcing Vegetables." Aspa'ragus, Bath or Prussian, consists of the spikes when about eight inches long, of Ornithogalum Pyrenaicum which grows abund- antly enough in hedges and pastures in that locality (Bath, England), to be worth gather- ing for sale. Aspa'ragus of the Cossacks. Typha latifolia. Aspa'sia. From aspazomai, I embrace; the column embraced by the labellum. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A small genus of epiphytal Orchids from Central and South America. One of the more important species, A. epidendroides, has yellow and brown sepals, the petals light purple, the lip white, with purple in the centre. The species should be grown in baskets, or on blocks of wood or cork, with plenty of moss. They do not require a high temperature, but need plenty of air. Increased by division. Introduced in 1833. A'spen. See Populus tremula. A'spera. Bough, with hairs or points. Aspe'rula. The diminutive of asper, rough ; in reference to the rough leaves. Nat. Ord. RubiacecB. Pretty, dwarf, hardy plants, chiefly natives of the European Continent, well adapted for shaded situations among trees. A. odorata, the common Woodruff, is esteemed for its delightful scent. This pretty little plant, when wilted, has the odor of new-mown hay, and when kept among clothes, it not only imparts an agreeable perfume to them, but preserves them from insects. Asphalt. Artificial Asphalt is used very gen- erally for foot-paths in gardens, etc. One of the best methods is the following: Lime rubbish, two parts ; coal ashes, one part, (both must be very dry and sifted very fine) ; mix them and leave a hole in the middle of the heap, wherein pour boiling hot coal-tar ; mix well together. When as stiff as mortar, lay it down three inches thick, on a dry and previ- ously well-leveled surface, sprinkle with dry sifted sand and roll thoroughly with a heavy roller. Only just enough tar to last about ten minutes must be taken from the furnace at one time, as, if it be not boiling, the walks will become soft under the action of very hot sun. This may be repeated every three year's. It is imperative that the surface, lime, coal ashes, and sand, be perfectly dry, and that the days selected for the operation be very fine, the hotter the better. Aspho'delus. Asphodel. From a, privative, and sphallo, to supplant ; the stately flowers not easily surpassed. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. Showy plants suitable for the open border, with white or yellow flowers. They may be grown in any soil, and are readily increased by separation of the roots. Most varieties are from the south of Europe, have long been in cultivation in our gardens, and are perfectly hardy. Aspi'dieae. A section of polypodineous Ferns, in Avhich the sori are punctiform or dot-like, and covered either by reniform or peltate indusia. ABTICHOKE (GLOBE) ARUM SANCTUM (BLACK CALLA). -*s*- ASTILBE JAPONICA. ASTER (SCARLET TRIUMPH). ^ h £$E ASPARAGUS TENUI8SIMUS. ASTER (CROWN). STY1 ^*l<-.r,7U ASTER (MINIATURE BOUQUET) AVENA FLAVESCENS (YELLOW OAT GRASS.) 37 AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 37 ASP Aspidi'stra. From aspidiseon, a little round shield ; the form of the flower. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. A small genus found in China and Japan, remarkable for producing their flowers under the surface of the earth. They are useful house plants, and are propagated by suckers. The foliage of -A. elatior variegaia (green with broad stripes of white) contrasts finely with ornamental-foliaged plants. For the produc- tion of well-marked plants, the pots in which they are grown should be small, and the soil liberally mixed with sand. Introduced in 1835. Aspi'dium. Shield Fern, Wood Fern. From aspidion, a little buckler; the shape of the indusium. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. An extensive genus of hardy and green- house Ferns. Many of the species are com- mon in moist, shady places throughout the United States. The green-house varieties are mostly from the West Indies. All the species are of easy culture. Many of them are deservedly popular in the fern-house or shady border. Asple'nieae. A section of polypodineous Ferns, in which the simple linear or oblong sori are parallel with the veins, and oblique to the midrib, produced on one side of the veins, and covered by indusia of the same form. Asple'nium. Spleenwort. From a, privative, and splen, spleen ; referring to its supposed medicinal properties. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. This genus, as established by Linnseus, was a very extensive one, and the species exceed- ingly varied. So much confusion existed in regard to it, that modern botanists have divided and sub-divided it ; yet it contains a large number of hardy and tropical species, many of which are exceedingly beautiful and interesting, and are commonly found in our green-houses. Some of the species have the very singular property of bearing little buds on their surface, from which young plants are formed. It is not an uncommon thing to see fifteen or twenty of these young plants, all perfectly developed, from one to two inches high, on a single frond. They are popularly known as bulb-bearing Ferns. Several of the species are indigenous throughout the United States, and there is scarcely a country in which some of the species may not be found. Aste'lma. Strawberry Everlasting. From a, not, and stelma, a crown ; in reference to the construction of the fruit. Green-house ever- green shrubs from the Cape of Good Hope. The bracts of the flowers of A. eximium are of a rich rosy tint, and are incurved so as to form close heads, bearing some resemblance to Strawberries. It has been long introduced but is comparatively rare in cultivation. A'ster. Star-wort. Michaelmas Daisy. From aster, a star. Nat. Ord. Composite. There are upward of one hundred and fifty species included in this genus, chiefly hardy herbaceous plants, useful for ornamenting the flower borders in the autumn ; generally at- taining a height of from two to four feet, and producing white, purple or blue flowers. They are easily increased by separating the old stools. The well-known German and China Asters are now classed under Callistephus. ATA The sweet, musk-scented plant known as Aster Argophyllus is now placed under Eurybia, which see. Asti'lbe. From a, privative, and stilbe, bright- ness; flowers not very striking. Nat. Ord. Saxifragacece. A. Japonica, sometimes called SpirceaJaponi- ca, Hoteia Japonica and A. barbata, is a native of Japan, and a perfectly hardy herbaceous plant. The dark green cut leaves form a handsome tuft, from which arise numerous crowded panicles of feathery white flowers. Excellent for forcing in pots, and fine for cutting. There is a variety with variegated foliage, green and yellow, not so vigorous in habit, but in all other respects similar. ■ Propagated by divi- sion. See Spiroza. Astra'galus. Milk Vetch. The ancient Greek name for some leguminous plant. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. An extensive genus of hardy annuals, per- ennials, and deciduous trees and shrubs. Many of the species are beautiful plants for the flower garden. They are vigorous growers, and succeed in a well-drained, sandy soil. The genus is widely distributed, there being scarcely a country where it is .not indig- enous. The flowers are pea-shaped, and mostly yellow or purple. Several of our na- tive species produce a fruit resembling green plums, that are edible. On the prairies they are called Ground Plums. A. mollissimus, popularly known as " Loco," or " Crazy Weed," is the notorious cattle-poisoning weed of Colorado and California. Cattle and horses eating it show many of the symptoms of drunkenness, and under certain circum- stances the results are fatal. The gum-like substance called Tragacanth is the produce of several species growing in Persia, Asia Minor, and Kurdistan. The gum exudes naturally from the bark in the same way that gum exudes from the bark of Cherry or Plum trees. While many of the species are useful or ornamental, by far the larger number are troublesome weeds. Astra'ntia. A genus of Umbelliferce. Native of Europe and Western Asia, containing ten or twelve species. They are hardy herbaceous perennials, with black aromatic roots, and generally white or pink flowers. A. Carniola and A. Major are the most distinct and orna- mental species, easily increased by root divi- sion. Astroca'ryum. From astron, a star, and karyon, a nut ; referring to the distribution of the fruit. Nat. Ord. Palmacew. A small genus of Palms allied to Cocos, chiefly natives of the Upper Amazon. They have large pinnate leaves, and are armed with spines, sometimes a foot long, and exceedingly sharp. The fruit of some of the species fur- nishes food for cattle and swine. The young leaves of A. vulgare yield a fine thread, from which the best hammocks are woven. Ata'ccia. Malay name. Nat. Ord. Taccacece. There are few more remarkable-looking plants than A. cristata, sometimes met in the gardens under the incorrect name of Tacca integrifolia. It has a short, conical, under- ground caudex, or rhizome, and produces from this caudex three or four large, oblong, acuminate, purplish-green stalked leaves. 38 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OP PLANTS ATA The scape is about as long as the leaves, erect, stout, angled, dark purple, terminated by a large four-leaved involucre, of which the two outer leaflets are dark purple, and the two inner much larger, placed side by side, green with a deep purple base and stalk. The species are remarkable for their curious struc- ture, but are of no value as flowering plants, or for economic purposes. Atama'sco Lily. See Zephyranthes. Athana'sia. Ornamental green-house ever- green shrubs, belonging to the Nat. Ord. Composite?,. They have yellow flowers, lasting a long time in perfection. Natives of the Cape of Good Hope. Atherospe'rma. Plume Nutmeg. From other, an awn, and sperma, a seed ; the seed awned. Nat. Ord. Monimiacece. A beautiful green-house evergreen tree, with the aspect of a stately conifer. Flowers white, in panicles, the leaves being strongly musk-scented. A native of New Holland, readily propagated by cuttings. Introduced in 1824. Athy'rium. A small genus of ferns, until re- cently included in Asplenium. A. Goringianum pictum is a beautiful half-hardy deciduous va- riety from Japan. Atlee Gall. A gall nut produced abundantly by Tamarix orientalis, which is called Atle by the Egyptians. It is filled with a deep scarlet liquid. Atra'gene. A genus of ornamental, hardy, climbing, deciduous shrubs, closely allied to Clematis, and belonging to Nat. Ord. Ranun- culacece. They occur in the temperate regions of the Old and New Continent. A. Americana (Syn. Clematis verticillaris) is found in Western New England, Virginia and Wisconsin. A. alpina, blue, and its white variety, are not uncommon in cultivation. Atrapha'xis. A genus of Polygonacem. Natives of Asia and the Cape of Good Hope, consist- ing of low shrubs with rigid, much branched, often spiny stems. A few species are culti- vated as green-house plants, but the most in- teresting, A. Spinosa, is perfectly hardy and forms a dense shrub, which when covered with flowers is very showy. It is an excellent plant for the rock-garden, growing well in any situation. Syn. Tragopyron. A'triplex. Orache, Mountain Spinach. From ater, black, and plexus, woven together ; on account of the dark color and habit of some of the species. Nat. Ord. Chenopodiaceai. A. hortensis, the only species of interest, is a tall-growing, hardy plant, annual, known in our gardens as Orache. It is but little grown in this country, but very popular in France. It is a native of Tartary, introduced into France in 1548. It grows freely with ordinary garden culture. Seeds are sown in both spring and fall to secure a succession. A'tropa. Deadly Nightshade. Named after Atropos, one of the Three Fates. Nat. Ord. Solanacew. A small genus of hardy herbaceous perennials and evergreen shrubs, remarkable for their poi- sonous properties. A. Belladonna, one of the best known species, is a hardy herbaceous plant, indigenous to shady grounds and waste AUC places in Southern Europe and Western Asia, also in Great Britain. The root is thick, whitish and perennial, sending forth annually a strong, branched, purple-colored stem, from three to five fee thigh. The leaves are of un- equal size, and are entire, oval-pointed, stand- ing in pairs on very short footstalks. The flowers are large, bell-shaped, pendant, and of a brown purple hue ; appearing in June or July, and are succeeded by round, purple ber- ries, which ripen in September. All parts of the plant are poisonous. It is supposed to have been the plant which produced such re- markable and fatal effects on the Romans dur- ing their retreat from the Parthians, under Mark Antony, as recorded in Plutarch's Life of Antony. Buchanan relates the de- struction of the army of Sweno the Dane, when it invaded Scotland, by the berries of this plant. They were mixed with the drink which the Scots, according to the terms of the truce, were to supply to the Danes, which so intoxicated them that the Scots killed a greater part of Sweno's army while asleep. The extract of Belladonna is exten- sively used in the Homoeopathic practice of medicine, in cases of fever, and also as a diur- etic. Dr. Milno remarks, that nature has been more parsimonious in her warnings in respect to this plant, than to others of the same natural family. Neither the smell nor the taste is offensive, and if the color of the flowers proves in some degree a repellant, that of the fruit, on the other hand, is in an equal degree, at least, attractive and inviting. Attale'a. From attains, magnificent ; in reference to the beauty of these Palms. Nat. Ord. Pal- macece. A genus of very beautiful Palms allied to Cocos. With one or two exceptions, they are natives of Brazil. A. funifera yields a black fiber resembling whalebone, an article of con- siderable commercial value as a material for making brooms and brushes. It is popularly known as Piassaba Palm. The nuts of this species are veiy hard, about four inches long, finely mottled, dark and light brown, and are highly esteemed for turning into knobs, um- brella handles, and various other purposes. A. Cohune furnishes Cohoun nuts, from which is extracted Cohoun oil, used for burning, for which purpose it is superior to cocoanut oil. The species are too large for green-house cultivation. Attenuated. Tapering gradually to a point. Aubergine, Egg Plant. Solanum melongena var. ovigerum. Aubrie'tia. Named after M. Aubriet, a French botanical draughtsman. Nat. Ord. Cruciferm. A genus of pretty little plants, generally about three inches high, admirably adapted for pots or miniature rock-work ; the flowers are purple, and appear in March. They are readily propagated by division. Natives of the South of Europe, introduced in 1710. Au'cuba". The name of the shrub in Japan. Nat. Ord. Cornacem. A genus of hardy evergreen shrubs from Japan, useful, and highly prized for their vigorous habit, rapid growth, and capability of enduring, and even thriving in, the atmos- phere of cities. The flowers are inconspicu- ous, but since the introduction of the male AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 39 AUR or pollen-bearing plant, by Robert Fortune, to England in 1861, we have been enabled to secure the beautiful coral -red berries, which are borne in profusion, and render the bushes exceedingly ornamental. The conspicuously marked foliage of A. Japonica variegata, which is green and yellow, admirably adapts it for the shrubbery border, or as a single plant upon the lawn. This variety is not usually hardy north of Washington. Propagated by cut- tings, which root freely in sand. Introduced in 1783. Aurantia'ceae. The Orange, Lemon, and simi- lar fruits are produced by trees belonging to this natural order. They are all bushy or woody plants, having the leaves filled with transparent oil cysts, giving them a dotted appearance, and a fruit more or less pulpy. Less than 100 species are known. The genera are almost exclusively found in the East In- dies, whence they have, in some cases, spread over the rest of the tropics. Aureus. Of a bright golden color, composed of yellow with a small portion of red. Auricle. An ear. Auricomus. A head or tuft, like hair, of a golden color. Auricula. See Primula auricula. Auriculate. Auricled. Having ear-like ap- pendages, as in the case of many leaves, as in Jasminum auriculatum. Auriculately-sagittate. Eared at the base, so as to give the leaf the appearance of the head of an arrow. Austra'lis (Southern). This term is frequent- ly applied to plants which grow in warm climates, without regard to their being strictly confined to the southern hemisphere. Autumn Bell Flower. Gentiana Pneumon- anthe. Ave'na. Oat. A name of obscure origin. Nat. Ord. Graminacem. A genus of grasses of which the common Oat, A. sativa, is the best known, and which is invaluable in agricultural econ- omy. There are several species of Oats, and a vast number of varieties. The nativity of the Oat is accredited to Mesopotamia; this is, however, a matter of conjecture. The quality and appearance of the Oat vary greatly when grown on different soils and in different climates. The justly celebrated Norway Oat loses its distinctive character when grown in the warm, dry climate of the Middle New England States, and seed has consequently to be imported every season, in order to keep the crop up to the high standard claimed for it. The Naked or Hull-less Oat is A. nuda, found growing wild in many parts of Europe, and considered merely a degeneration of the common Oat. A very fine variety of this species has been introduced from China, but its merits as a farm crop have not been fully tested. A. sterilis, a native of the South of Europe, is the Animated Oat of the gardens. The "animation" is produced by the contraction and expansion of the awns, which cause the seed to crawl a short dis- tance. Moisture from dews is sufficient to produce this slight motion. Avens. Geum urbanum. AZA Avenues in Landscape Gardening. In forming an avenue, a gradual winding line should above all be obtained, which must in no way interfere with the view from the house. An old authority on this subject says that " there never should be any deviation from a straight line unless for some real or apparent cause," so in a winding or curved line a tree, rock or building must be placed at the bends as a reason for going around such obstacles. Twelve to fifteen feet is the width usually allowed for the road, but this depends upon individual taste ; this remark also applies to planting in double rows, the trees forming a series of triangles ; or in single rows. The distance across the road from one row of trees to those opposite should be at least twenty-five feet. The Lime or Linden tree is extensively used for avenues, on account of its regular growth and the shade it affords. The American and English Elms are also valuable trees for this purpose. The Horse Chesnut in sheltered spots, is very ornamental, and the various species of Maples and Planes, are unsurpassed for this purpose. The Spruce and other Firs are also much used and are eminently suited for avenue planting. Groups of shrubs and herbaceous plants may be introduced between the trees, and so re- move any bareness that may occur. Avocado Pear. Persea gratissima. Awl Tree. Morinda citrifolia. Awl- wort. Subularia aquatica. Axil, Axilla. The angle formed by the union of the leaf and stem or other organs ; the point on the stem from which a leaf proceeds. Aza'lea. From azaleos, dry ; in reference to the habitation of the plant. Nat. Ord. Ericacece. Beautiful flowering plants, natives of North America, Turkey, and China. The American or Hardy Azaleas, A. calendulacea, A. nudiflora and A. viscosa, with hosts of garden varieties bred from them, are inhabitants of all our best shrubberies, and have been so wonder- fully improved by seedling culture as to throw into the shade the original species; there can now be selected twenty or thirty varieties better than the very best of the original species. Every year, too, adds to the diversity of sorts and to the size of the flowers which is one of the characteristics of the improved kinds. In many places they thrive in the common soil of the garden, but, in general, they require leaf mould to be dug in with the natural soil ; and where there is to be any quantity grown, or a nursery of them made, beds of leaf mould, or composts of the greatest part of this, must be made up. They are raised from seed sown in beds in the open air, but from its extreme diminutive- ness, many prefer sowing in pans and wide- mouthed pots. "When they are large enough, they should be planted out in beds six inches apart. The second year every alternate plant may be taken out and planted elsewhere, to make room ; and as they increase in size they should have more room. They are propa- gated chiefly by grafting and by layers, but cut- tings of the last year's wood will root readily in sand. A. Pontica is a native of Turkey. A. Indica (the Chinese Azalea) and its varieties are those we meet with in the green-house. The florists' catalogues abound with rare 40 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS AZA sorts, the results of careful and skillful cross-fertilization. We are largely indebted for our finer sorts to the nurserymen at Ghent, Belgium. They are increased easily in spring by cuttings of the half-ripened young shoots. Aza'ra. Named after J. N. Azara, a Spanish promoter of botany. Nat. Ord. Flacourtiacece. A genus of evergreen shrubs, natives of Chili. A. Gilliesii, is the most desirable species. Its leaves are evergreen, somewhat resembling the Holly; flowers yellow, pro- BAL duced in axillary clusters. Propagated by cuttings. Introduced in 1844. Azo'lla. A very curious genus of aquatic cryp- togamous plants found floating upon the water, forming green or reddish patches, throwing down rootlets on the under side, amongst which are situated, principally in the axils of the leaves, the organs of fructifi- cation. The species occur in Australia, and New Zealand. The only native species, A. Caroliniana, is found in still water, from New York to Wisconsin, and southward. B. Babia'na. From babianer, the Dutch for baboon; in reference to the bulbs being eaten by baboons. Nat. Ord. Iridace.cz. A genus of Cape plants, with solid bulbs or corms, which are eaten by the Hottentots, and which, when roasted, are said to resemble chestnuts. All the species have showy flow- ers, of various colors, blue predominating. Some of the varieties are finely variegated. They succeed in very sandy loam, and may be grown either in pots for ornamenting the green-house, or planted in a cold frame, where, if protected from frost in winter, they may be allowed to remain altogether. They increase rapidly by offsets. Introduced from the Cape of Good Hope in 1757. Babingto'nia. Named in compliment to Charles Babington, of Cambridge, England, a distin- guished botanist. Nat. Ord. Myrtacece. B. camphorosmce, the only species of import- ance in this genus, is a graceful green-house shrub from New Holland. It is of easy culti- vation, and produces flowers freely during the summer months, in terminal clusters, color white or pinkish. The branches have a droop- ing habit, giving the plant a graceful outline. Propagated by cuttings. Introduced in 1842. Baby's Breath. See Muscari; also a local name for Gypsophila paniculata. Baccate. Having a pulpy or succulent texture ; berried, fleshy. Bac'charis. Groundsel-tree. From Bacchus, the god of wine ; referring to the spicy odor of the roots. The ancients sometimes boiled down their wines and mixed them with such spices. Nat. Ord. Composite. This genus consists of upward of 200 spe- cies, all South American except three, two of which are found from Massachusetts south- ward, and the third in California. They are tall-growing shrubs, and distinguished from their allies by having the male flowers on one plant and the females on another. The fertile plant of the native B. halimifolia is very con- spicuous in the autumn by its very long and white pappus. There is a singular and remark- able fact in relation to one of the species, B. Douglassi, which is found in California and in Chili, without being found in any intervening place. The medicinal properties of some of the South American species are highly esteemed for fevers and rheumatism. Bachelor's Buttons. A garden name given to the flowers of Centaurea Cyanus, Globe Ama- ranthus, and to the double-flowering buttercup, Ranunculus acris, fl. pi. Ba'ctris. From baktron, a cane ; the young stems being used for walking sticks. Nat. Ord. Palmaceae. A genus comprising several species of slender-growing palms, inhabiting the West Indies, Central and South America. They do not rank with the handsomest of palms, although when young they are of an orna- mental character. B. integrifolia, a native of Bio Negro, is an elegant species, with a slender reed-like stem, producing a small crown of dark-green leaves,densely armed with long, flat, black spines. It can be used with beautiful effect for table decoration. B. Mar- aja, the Marajah Palm of Brazil, grows upon the banks of the Amazon and other rivers. It is the largest species of the genus, its trunk attaining the height of fifty feet. It is thickly armed with spines, and has a succulent, rather acid but agreeably-tasted fruit, from which a vinous beverage is prepared. B. minor, has a stem from twelve to fifteen feet high, and seldom more than an inch in diameter. Its stems are very smooth, and are used for walking-sticks. Bae'ria. In honor of Professor Baer of the University of Dorpat. Nat Ord. Compositor. A genus of bright yellow Californian annu- als, with solitary terminal flowers about one inch across. They are pretty and desirable, B. chrysostoma being of dwarf, slender, erect habit, and very showy. Propagated by seeds sown in spring. Bahi'a. Name probably from the port of Bahia in South America. Nat. Ord. Composites. B. lanata, the only described species, is an ornamental, hardy herbaceous perennial, much branched from the base of the stem, and having a greyish appearance. It produces its large yellow flower heads in great pro- fusion, and is readily increased by seeds or division. Bala'ntium, A name proposed for a genus of Ferns, now considered synonymous with Dick- sonia. Bald Cypress. See Taxodium distichum. Balloon "Vine. See Cardiospermum. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 41 BAL Ballo'ta. Fetid Horehound. From ballo, to reject ; in allusion to its offensive odor. Nat. Ord. LabiatoB. A small genus of mere weeds, occasionally met with in the Eastern States, having found their way from Europe, where they are natives. Ball Thistle. Another name for Globe Thistle. Balm. Melissa officinalis. A perennial herb often used in the manufacture of a drink for sick persons, and sometimes employed for culinary purposes. Bee. Monarda didyma. Field. Calamintha nepeta. Indian. Trillium pendulum. Of Gilead. Cedronella triphylla. Of Gilead Tree. Balsamodendron Gileadense, and Populus balsamifera var. candicans. Of Heaven. Oreodaphne Californica. Balmony . One of the popular names of Chelone glabra. Balsam. Ladies' Slipper. Impatiens Balsamina. A well-known, tender annual, a native of India. It is one of the showiest and most popular of summer flowers, blooming as it does till the advent of frost. Numerous hand- some varieties are grown, the prevailing colors of which are red and white, the former extend- ing to every shade of purple, crimson, scarlet, rose, lilac, and carnation or flesh-color ; but some of the most superb sorts are elegantly spotted with white. The spotted varieties form a class by themselves, and are justly regarded as among the most brilliant orna- ments of the garden ; there are the crimson, scarlet, rose, purple, and violet-spotted. Another class is striped, after the manner of Carnations, with purple, crimson, rose, scarlet on pure white grounds, some with one color, others with two or more colors, and some are curiously mottled and striped. The most improved varieties are very double, and styled Camellia-flowered by the French. Some of the flowers are almost as perfect and as double as those of the Camellia, and nearly as regular in shape. The Germans call them Rose- flowered, as many of them approach the per- fection of that flower in shape and fullness. There is a class of Dwarf Balsams that do not grow over a foot high, but very full and bushy in habit. They do not produce flowers so double as the Camellia or Rose-flowered varieties, but are desirable for the garden. They should not be planted with the tall varieties, which attain the height of two or three feet, when properly cultivated. The only way to propagate the Balsam is from seeds, which do not always produce kinds exactly the same as the parent, but approach very near, when great care has been taken to keep the different varieties by themselves, as is now practiced by those who make a busi- ness of raising the seed. Careful growers of Balsams, who wish to raise prize flowers, never use seed less than three years old ; and they are particular in saving it from the most double and handsomest flowers, the best being those which have their colors distinctly marked, like a Carnation. Introduced from the East Indies in 1596. Balsam. A name given to various gum-resinous or oleo-resinous substances. Bayee Balsam, a product of Balsamodendron pubescens. BAM Canadian Balsam, aproduct of Abies balsamea. Carpathian Balsam, a product of Pinus Gem- bra. Copalm Balsam, aproduct of Liquidam- bar styracif.ua. Hungarian Balsam, an oleo- resinous product of Pinus Pumilio. Balsam of Acouchi, a product of Idea Aracouchini. Balsam of Copaiva, an acrid production of various species of Copaifera. Balsam of Maria, a product of Verticillaria acuminata. Balsam of Peru, a product of Myrospermum Peruiferum. Balsam of Quinquino, a product of Myrospermum pubescens, sold as White Balsam. Balsam of Tolu, a product of Myrospermum toluiferum. Balsam of Umiri, a product of Humirium floribundum. Tam- acoari Balsam, a product of a Brazilian species of Caraipa. White Balsam, the same as the Balsam of Quinquino above. Balsam Apple and Balsam Pear. See Momordica. Balsam Fir. See Abies. Balsami'neae. A tribe of plants belonging to the order Geraniacem, sepals and petals all colored, consisting of six segments one of them ending below in a conical spur. The best known genus is Impatiens. Balsa'mita. A genus of Composite, of but little interest, only that it contains the well known Costmary, or Alecost, B. vulgaris, a native of Italy ; although common in every village garden in Britain and on the continent it is almost entirely discarded for culinary pur- poses, and even in France it is only used occasionally to mix in salads. This plant is the Pyrethrum tanacetum of Linnaeus. Balsa'mode'ndron. From balsamon, an old Greek name for balm or balsam, and dendron, a tree. Nat. Ord. Burseracem. A genus of balsam-bearing trees with small green, often uni-sexual flowers. B. myrrha is supposed to yield some of the gum resin known as myrrh, others produce Balm of Gilead, or Balm of Mecca; a gum resin obtained by incision into the bark, and con- sidered by the ancients as a panacea for almost all the ills that flesh is heir to. Balsam Tree. A common name for Balsam- odendron, and Clusia. Canada. Abies balsamea and Pinus Fraseri. Copalm. Liquidambar Styraciflua. Florida. Amyris Floridana. Hungarian. Pinus Pumilio. Jamaica. Clusia flava. Balsam Weed. A popular name for Gnaphal- ium polycephalum, a native plant used in the manufacture of paper. Bamboo. Australian. Poa ramigera. Blow-pipe. Arundinaria Schomburgkii. Common. Bambusa arundinacea. Fortune's. Bambusa Fortunei. Metake. Bambusa Japonica. Sacred. Nandina domestica. Bambu'sa. Bamboo Cane. From bambu, its Indian name. Nat. Ord. Graminacem. A genus of gigantic reeds, common through- out Southern China and Japan. B. arundi- nacea is the species of greatest importance. When growing it has the appearance of an immense sheaf of wheat standing on end. It grows in large tufts or clumps, some of them upwards of sixty feet in height, and the quantity of canes which they yield is simply 42 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS BAN enormous. The cane is porous in the center and partly hollow. Externally the epidermis is composed of a hard wood, into which silex enters so largely that it will strike fire with a steel like a piece of flint. Although this plant grows spontaneously and most profusely in nearly all the immense southern districts of the Chinese Empire, yet the Chinese give the cultivation of this reed great care and atten- tion. They have treatises and whole volumes solely on this subject, laying down rules derived from experience, and showing the proper soils, the best kinds of water, and the seasons for planting and transplanting the useful production. The variety of pur- poses to which the Bamboo is applied is almost endless. The Chinese use it, in one way or other, for nearly everything they require. The sails of their ships, as well as the masts and rigging, consist chiefly of Bamboo, manufactured in different ways. Almost every article of furniture in their houses, including mats, screens, chairs, tables, bedsteads, and bedding, are made of the same material ; and in some sections entire dwell- ings are constructed of Bamboo. Fine paper is made from the fiber of this plant. In short, scarcely anything is to be found in China either upon land or water, into the composition of which Bamboo does not enter. The same extensive use is also made of this reed in Japan, Java, Sumatra, Siam, and other East- ern countries. Bana'na or Plantain Tree. Musa Sapientum. Abyssinian. Musa Ensete. Dwarf Chinese. Musa Cavendishii. Banded Rush. See Scirpus. Bane-berry. See Actcea spicata. Bane-wort. Atropa belladonna. Baniste'ria. A name applied to a genus of the natural family, Malphighiacem, consisting of trees or shrubs, frequently climbing. They are natives of Brazil and the "West Indies. Several are in cultivation for the sake of their pretty, yellow flowers and in some instances, fine foliage. Propagated by cuttings. Ba'nksia. A genus of ProteacecB, established by the younger Linnaeus in honor of Sir Joseph Banks. Green-house evergreens principally grown for the beauty of their foliage, which is remarkable for its harsh, rigid coriaceous character. The leaves are generally dark green on the upper surface and clothed with a white or rufous down beneath, their margins being either deeply serrated or spinous, rarely entire. This genus is peculiar to Australia and contains upwards of fifty species. Banner Plant. The genus Anthurium. Banyan Tree. See Ficus indica. Baobab Tree. See Adansonia digitata. Ba'phia. Camwood. Barwood. From baphe, a dye, referring to the use of the wood in dyeing. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. B. nitida, the only species, produces the Camwood or Barwood of commerce. It is an evergreen tree, growing to the height of fifty feet, with shining green leaves, composed of two pairs of leaflets and an odd one. Its flowers are yellow, and bear some resemblance to the common laburnum. It is a native of Sierra Leone, and forms an important article of commerce. BAR The native women on the west coast of Africa use the pounded wood for painting their bodies ; amulets are also made of it, and it is used in their Fetish ceremonies. Introduced in 1793. Bapti'sia. From bapto, to dye ; some of the species possessing dyeing properties. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. This genus of native plants (commonly called False Indigo) are rather pretty for the border. Flowers are white, blue or yellow. They grow in any good garden soil, and are increased by division. Barbace'nia. Named after M. Barbacena, a Governor of Minas Geraes. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacea. Very pretty and singular herbaceous perennials. B. purpurea, has flowers of moderate size, of the richest velvety purple imaginable, leaves narrow, long, and droop- ing in the way of Pandanus graminifolius. "Lindley" says that they are capable of existing in a dry, hot air, without contact with the earth, on which account they are favorites in South American gardens, where, with Orchids and Bromeliads, they are sus- pended in the dwelling houses, or hung to the balustrades of the balconies, in which situa- tion, they flower abundantly, filling the air with their fragrance. Barbadoes Cherry. Malpighia glabra. Barbadoes Gooseberry. See Pereskia. Barbadoes Lily. Hippeastrum equesiris. Barbadoes Pride. Adenanthera Pavonina. Barbare'a. Winter Cress. So named on ac- count of its having been formerly called the Herb of St. Barbara. Nat. Ord. Cruciferce. B. vulgaris is a hardy herbaceous plant, in early days esteemed as a salad. It closely resembles the common Water Cress, but grows on dry soils. Its use is now discarded. It is a native of Europe, and has become naturalized in some parts of this country. Barbate. Having long, soft hairs in one or more tufts. Barberry. See Berberis. Barbs. Hooked hairs. Barcla'ya. A singular genus of East Indian aquatics, belonging to the Nat. Ord. Nymphce- acece. They bear but little resemblance to the ordinary water-lilies.though botanically allied. As botanical specimens they are very interest- ing ; as flowering plants they are not likely to occupy a very prominent place in the list of ornamental plants. Bark. All the outer integuments of a plant beyond, the wood, and formed of tissue parallel with it. It is also. the officinal name given to the cortical layers of various plants, used chiefly for medicinal and tanning pur- poses. The name is, par excellence, applied to the Peruvian or Cinchona barks, the source of Quinine. Of these there are many varie- ties, namely : Calisaya Bark, Royal Yellow, Cinchona Calisaya; Light Calisaya, C. Bolivi- ana, C. scrobiculata; Peruvian Calisaya, C. 8crobiculata (Delondriana) ; Carabaya Ash, Jaen, C. ovata ; Dark Jaen, C. villosa ; Hard Carthagena, C. cordifolia, Woody Carthagena, C. Condaminea ; Spongy Carthagena, Coquetta, Bogota, C. lancifolia, (Condaminea); Crown, AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 43 BAR C. Calisaya; Select Crown, C. chahuanguera ; Ashy Crown, C. rhacrocalyx, C. rotundifolia ; Fine Crown, C. crispa; Loxa Crown, C. Con- daminea; Wiry Crown, C. hirsuta; Cinnamon, C. cocdnea ; Cusco, Ariza, C. pubescens ; Red Cusco, St. Ann's, C. scrobiculata ; Huanuco, Gray, C. micrantha, C. glandulifera, C nitida; Original Loja, C. uritusinga; Negrilla, C. heterophylla ; Red, C. conglomerata ; Genuine Red, C. succirubra; Spurious Red, C. magni- folia. The principal sorts are sometimes classed thus : Gray Barks : Crown or Loxa, C. condaminea, C. scrobiculata, C. macrocalyx ; Lima, Huanuco, Silver, C. micrantha, C. lan- ceolata, C. glandulifera, and probably C. pur- purea. Red Barks : C. nitida. Yellow Barks : C. Calisaya, C. micrantha, C. Condaminea, C. lancifolia. Rusty Barks : C. hirsuta, C. micrantha, C. ovilafolia, and probably C. pur- purea. White Barks : C. ovata, C. pubescens, C. cordifolia. For a complete account of the medicinal Cinchona Barks, see Mr. Howard's splendid volume, entitled, " The Nueva Quinologia of Pavon." The following Barks are also employed offi- cinally or economically : Alcornoco or Alcor- noque, the astringent bark of several species of Byrsonima, or, according to some authori- ties, of Bowdichia virgillioides. Angostura Bark, the febrifugal bark of Galipea Cusparia or G. officinalis. Babul Bark, the astringent bark of Acacia Arabica. Bastard Cabbage Bark, the bark of Andira inermis; the same as Worm Bark. Bastard Jesuit's Bark, the bark of Ivafrutescens. Bonace Bark, the bark of Daphne linifolia. Canella Bark, the stimu- lant aromatic bark of Canella alba. Caribbean Bark, the astringent bark of Exostemma cari- baum. Cascarilla or Sweet Wood Bark, the aromatic bark of Croton Cascarilla and C. pseudo-China. China Bark, the febrifugal bark of Buena hexandra. Conessi Bark, the astringent bark of Wrightia antidysenterica. Culilawan Bark, the aromatic stimulant bark of Ciwnamomum Culilawan. Eleuthera Bark, the aromatic bark of Croton Cascarilla. False Angostura Bark, the bark of Strychnos nux- vomica. French Guiana Bark, the febrifugal bark of Portlandia hexandra. Hemlock Bark, the astringent bark of Tsuga Canadensis, used for tanning leather. Jesuit's Bark, the same as Peruvian Bark. Juribali Bark, an astrin- gent bark of Demerara, supposed to be the produce of some Cedrelaceous plant. Me- lambo Bark, the aromatic febrifugal bark of some species of Galipea, or one of its allies. Mesereum Bark, the acrid, irritant bark of Daphne Mezereum. Monesia Bark, the bark of some South American Sapotacem. Muruxi Bark, the astringent bark of Byrsonima spicata, used by the Brazilian tanners. Niepa Bark, the febrifugal bark of Samadera Indica. Ordeal, Sassy, or Saucy Bark, is the poisonous bark of Erythrophkmm guineense, of Sierra Leone. Panococco Bark, the sudorific bark of Swartzia tomentosa. Quercitron Bark, the yellow dye bark of Quercus tincloria. Quillai Bark, the bark of Quillaia saponaria, used as a substi- tute for soap. Sassafras Bark, is the aromatic bark of Atherosperma moschata. Stringy Bark of Tasmania, Eucalyptus gigantea. Sweet Wood Bark, the same as Cascarilla Bark. Nine Bark, an American name for Spiraea opuhfolia. White Wood Bark, the same as Canella Bark. Winter's Bark, the tonic aromatic bark of BAR Drymis Winteri. Worm Bark, the bark of Andira inermis, formerly used as an anthel- mintic. There are other barks, but tnese are the principal ones having a commercial or medicinal value. Barke'ria. After the late Mr. Barker, of Bir- mingham, Eng., an ardent cultivator of Orchids. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A small genus of very beautiful epiphytal Orchids, natives of Mexico and Central America. They closely resemble the well- known genus Epidendrum. B. spectabilis, called in Guatemala, Flor de Isabel, is the finest species. It is one of the votive offer- ings of the Catholics in that country. The plants should be grown in baskets of moss in a warm house. They are increased by division. Introduced in 1843. Barle'ria. After the Rev. J. Barrelier, of Paris. Nat. Ord. Acanthaceoz. A large genus of herbs and shrubs, natives of the tropical regions of both the Old and the New Worlds. The flowers are purple, yellow, orange, or white, produced in axillary or terminal spikes or heads. But few of the species have been introduced into the garden or green-house. B. cristata, a native of the East Indies, is a pretty little hot-house ever- green plant, bearing its purplish-lilac flowers in great profusion in summer, making it a desirable border plant. It is propagated by cuttings. Introduced in 1796. Barley. The common name for Hordeum vul~ gare, which see. Barna'rdia. Name in honor of E. Barnard, F. L. 8. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. A small genus of half-hardy bulbs from China and Japan. The flowers are pale blue, similar to the Scilla, and from the resemblance the finest species has been called B. scillioides. They require to be grown in a frame. Pro- pagated by offsets. Introduced in 1819. Barnyard Grass. The common name for Pani- cum Crus-galli. Baro'sma. From barys, heavy, and osme, odor ; referring to the powerful scent of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Rutaceoe. A genus of evergreen, green-house shrubs, natives of the Cape of Good Hope, where the leaves are used by the Hottentots to perfume themselves with. The Bucku leaves of com- merce, which are much used in medicine as a stimulant and tonic, are produced from sev- eral of the species. Barren Flowers. The staminate, or male flowers of many plants, are popularly known as Barren flowers, and are generally produced, as in the case of cucumbers, melons, etc., by monoecious plants, that is, those having male and female organs in different flowers, but on the same plant. A good example of Barren flowers is seen in the ray-florets of many com- posite plants, such as the Thistle or Aster, which are frequently really neuter, having neither male nor female organs. Barringto'nia. Named after the Hon. Daines Barrington. Nat. Ord. Myrtacece. This genus consists of tropical evergreen trees, some of which are of large dimensions. They are found in many parts of India, but in the greatest numbers in the Malayan penin- sula and the islands of the India Ocean ; two species are found in N. Australia, and one on 44 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS BAR the banks of the Zambesi River, in East Africa. Without exception they are beautiful objects when in flower. B. speciosa, a native of the Moluccas, and one of the handsomest of the genus, attains a height of fifty feet, with a circumference of from ten to fifteen feet ; it is generally found near the sea. From its seeds a lamp-oil is expressed ; mixed with bait they are used to inebriate fish in order to facilitate their cap- ture. The roots, bark, and seeds of the sev- eral species are much used in medicine by the native practitioners. Syn. Stravadium. Barringto'nia'ceae. A small order, now placed as a tribe of Myrtacece. Barto'nia. Named after Dr. Bartonfi one of our distinguished botanists. Nat. Ord. Loasacece. B. aurea, a native of California, is a splendid annual, with golden yellow flowers, which have quite a metallic luster when the sun shines upon them. The seed-pod is curiously twisted. Like all the California annuals, it is very apt to die off if the roots become at all . withered by drought, or if the collar of the plant be exposed to the full heat of the sun ; and thus it does best when grown in masses, so that the ground may be quite covered with its leaves. It succeeds best in a moist situation. Introduced in 1834. Barwood. Baphia nitida. Basal. Situated at the base of anything, or at- tached to the base of any organ or part. Base'lla. Malabar Nightshade. Its Malabar name. Nat. Ord. Chenopodiacece. A genus of climbing plants, mostly biennial. B alba and B. cordifolia are grown in the East Indies as pot-herbs, and are used as a sub- stitute for Spinach. Some of them are also grown in France, to furnish the Paris market with summer Spinach, and they are grown for the same purpose in China. B. rubra, a va- riety of B. cordifolia, yields a rich purple dye. Some of the species have tuberous roots. B. alba is suitable for a suspended pot or basket, being quite pretty when in bloom. B. lucida, when in fruit, is a very interesting plant. Propagated by division and by seed. Basella'ceae. A series of usually herbaceous climbers, and considered a tribe of Chenopo- diacece. Basil, Sweet. Ocimum Basilicum. Which see. Basil, Wild. The genus Pycnanthemum. Basil Thyme. Common name for Calamintha Acinos. Ba'ssia. Butter Tree. Named after M. Bassi, Curator of the Botanic Garden at Boulogne. Nat. Ord. Sapotaceaz. Tall trees, natives of the hottest parts of the East Indies and Africa ; the leaves are al- ternate, produced in terminal tufts. The trees are of considerable importance in their native countries. B. butryacea yields a thick, oil-like butter from its fruit. It makes good soap, and is adapted for burning. From the juice of the flowers a kind of sugar is pre- pared. The flowers of B. latifolia, the Mah- wah Tree, are used as an article of food in India, and when dried keep good a long time. A good sized tree will continue to shed its blossoms for fifteen days, at the rate of one hundred pounds per day, which weight is reduced one-half in the process of drying. BAU A maund (eighty pounds) of dried Mahwah will furnish a fortnight's food to a family of two parents and three children. It is gener- ally eaten with the seeds of the Sal Tree (Shorea robusta) ; a small quantity of rice being sometimes added. The fruit of the Illupie Tree, B. longifolia, yields oil for lamps and various other purposes ; it is also used for food. B. Parkii is the Shea Tree, or But- ter Tree, mentioned by Mungo Park in his travels. Some of the species furnish a very valuable timber for the mechanic arts. Basswood or Whitewood. Tilia Americana. Bast. A strong woody fibre, much used in some places for making brooms, brushes, etc., obtained from the leaf stalks of Attalea funifera and of Leopoldinia Piassaba. Also the inner bark of the Lime Tree, of which the Russian mats used in gardens are made. Cuba Bast is the fibrous inner bark of Paritium datum, much used for tying up cigars, and by gardeners for tying up plants, etc., as is also the bast of the Lime Tree. Raphia, however, is now fast superseding these materials among gardeners for tying purposes. See Raphia. Bastard, or False Acacia. Robinia Pseudo- acacia. Bastard Pennyroyal. See Trichostema dichoto- mum. Bata'tas. Its Indian name. Nat. Ord. Convol- vulacea. A somewhat extensive genus of tuberous- rooted climbing plants, tender or half-hardy. Some of the species are handsome green- house climbers, with large, purple, showy flowers. As the flowers fade quickly and have no commercial value, the species are rarely cultivated. The most interesting species is B. edulis, the well-known Sweet Potato, for description of which see Potato. The several species are natives of Mexico, South America and the East Indies. Batema'nnia. In compliment to James Bate- man, a celebrated English collector and culti- vator of Orchids, and author of the ' ' Orchid- acese of Mexico and Guatemala." Nat. Ord. Orchidaceaz. A small genus of epiphytal Orchids, most of which have small, inconspicuous flowers. Batemannia Burtii is a very rare and showy plant, from Costa Rica, with flowers three inches in diameter, of a reddish brown, with yellow spots, lip white and dark purple. They require to be grown in a house, with moderate heat, and to be watered with great caution. Introduced in 1872. Baue'ra. Named after two brothers, German botanical draughtsmen. Nat. Ord. Saxifra- gaceoe. A genus of small green-house shrubs, natives of New Zealand and Australia. Their pale red or pink flowers are produced in the axils of the leaves in great profusion. They form very neat, pretty green-house ever- green plants, flowering nearly the whole year through. Easily increased by cuttings. Bauhi'nia. Named after the brothers John and Casper Bauhin, botanists in the sixteenth cen- tury. Nat. Ord. Leguminosa. The numerous species that compose this genus are extensively diffused throughout the BAKTONIA. BESSERA ELEGANS. BABIANA. BELLIS (DOUBLE DAISY). BAKBACENIA. BEGONIA COBALLINA. 44 BEGONIA AXGYEOSTYGMA. xn mmmmmm Hi 1 ■\ Pill BEGONIA METAIXICA. BEGONIA (SINGLE TUBEROUS). BEGONIA DIADEMATA. BEGONIA BEX VAK. 45 AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 45 BAY tropics, particularly in Brazil and India. They are generally climbers, frequently at- taining a gigantic size ; some few, however, form trees, or large shrubs. B. tomentosa is a native of Ceylon, where it forms a small tree, growing about fifteen feet high, and having pale, yellow flowers, spotted with crimson, which has given rise to the superstitious idea that they were sprinkled with the blood of St. Thomas, hence the tree is called St. Thomas' Tree. B. Vahlii is the Maloo climber of India, a plant whose gigantic shrubby stems often attain a length of 300 feet, and climb over the tops of the highest trees in the forest, twist- ing so tightly round their stems that they not unfrequently strangle and cause death, the stems ultimately decaying and leaving a sheath of climbers standing in their place. The young shoots and leaves are covered with a rust-colored scurf, and are furnished with tendrils. The leaves are very large, often more than a foot in diameter, composed of two oval-shaped lobes joined together for about half their length, and heart-shaped at the base. The flowers are snowy-white, and arranged in racemes. The exceeding tough fibrous bark of this species is employed in India for making ropes, which, from their great strength, are used in the construction of the suspension bridges across the River Jumna. The bark of another Indian species is used for making the slow-matches used with native guns. Bay-berry. See Myrica cerifera. Bay Oak. Quercus sessiliflora. Bay Rose. Epilobium angustifolium. Bay Tree. Magnolia glauca. Bay Tree. Poison, lllicum Floridanum. Bay Tree. Rose. Nerium Oleander. Bay Tree. Sweet. Laurus nobilis. Beach Grass. See Ammophila. Beach Pea. The common name of Lathyrus maritimus, a species growing plentifully in New Jersey and northward. Bead Tree. See Ormosia. Bean. Phaseolus. The varieties of our com- mon Garden or Bush Bean have their origin in P. vulgaris, which is supposed to be a native of the East Indies, though there are none of the species found wild that in any way resem- bles the varieties under cultivation. The earliest notice that we have of the Kidney Bean is that given by Pliny, who calls them Phaseoli, and says the pod is to be eaten with the seed. "According to Diodorus Siculus, the Egyptians were the first to cultivate it, and to make it an article of common diet, yet they conceived religious notions concerning it which made them at length refrain from eating it. Their priests dared not either touch it or look at it. Pythagoras, who was educated among the Egyptians, derived from them their veneration for the bean, and forbade his disciples to eat it. He taught that it was created at the same time and of the same elements as man ; that it was animated and had a soul, which, like a human soul, suffered the vicissitudes of transmigration. Aristotle explains the prohibition of Pythagoras sym- bolically. He says, that beans being the ordinary means of voting on public matters, the white bean meaning an affirmative, and BEA the black a negative, therefore Pythagoras meant to forbid his disciples to meddle with political government. The Roman priests affirmed that the bean blossom contained in- fernal letters, referring to the dark stains on the wings, and it is probable that all the superstitions on the subject sprang from the fruit." — Am. Ency. This species was first cultivated in England in 1509, having been in- troduced from the Netherlands. Many varie- ties were known to Gerarde in 1590. The running or Pole Beans are of the species P. multiflorus, introduced from South America in 1663. (See Phaseolus.) The English Bean, so called by our seedsmen, and commonly known as Broad Windsor, is Faba vulgaris var. macrosperma, a genus that has been under cultivation as long as we have any records of gardening. It is supposed to have originated in Egypt, from the fact that the early Greek writers mention receiving it thence. Of this class there are many varieties, none of which succeed well with us. Bean. The common name for Faba. Bog Bean, the Buckbean, Menyanthes trifoliata. Cujumary Bean, the tonic seed of Aydendron Cujumary. Egyptian or Pythagorean Bean, the fruit of Nelumbium speciosum. French or Bush Bean, Phaseolus vulgaris. Haricot Bean, the seed of Phaseolus vulgaris. Honey Bean, the seed-pods of Gleditschia triacanthos. In- dian Bean, an American name for Catalpa. Kidney Bean, the common name for Phaseolus, especially for those kinds cultivated as escu- lents. Lima Bean, the popular name for Phaseolus lunatus, of which the Sieva or Southern Lima and its dwarf variety Hender- son's Bush Lima Bean are evidently varieties. Locust Bean, the pod of Ceratonia siliqua. Molucca Bean, the seed of Guilandina Bondu- cella. Ordeal Bean of Old Calabar, the seeds of Physostigma venenatum. Ox-eye Bean, the seed of Mucuna urens. Pichurim Bean, a com- mercial name for the cotyledons of Nectandra Puchury. Sacred Bean, the common name for Nelumbium. Sahuca Bean, the seeds of Soja hispida. St. Ignatius's Bean, the seed of Strychnos mulliflora; also a Brazilian name for the seeds of Fevillea cordifolia. Scarlet Run- ner Bean, the seed of Phaseolus multiflorus. Smoking Bean, the seed-pods of Catalpa big- nonioides. Tonga or Tonquin Bean, the seed of Dipterix odorata. Underground Bean, Arachis hypogaa, commonly called Pea-nuts. Water Bean, an English name for the family of Nelumbiacex. Wild Bean, a common name for Apios. Algaroba Bean is Ceratonia sili- qua. Asparagus Bean, or Yard Long, Dolichos sesquipedalis. HibbertBean, Phaseolus lunatus (same as Lima Bean). Horse or Field Bean, Faba vulgaris var. equina. Horse-eye Bean, Mucuna urens. Inga Bean, the pod of the Bastard Cassia. Malacca Bean is the seed of Semecarpus anacardium. Mesquit Bean, the seed of Prosopis glandulosa. Pigeon Bean is the small-seeded field Bean. Ram's Horn Bean is Dolichos bicontortis. Red Bean is Vigna unguiculata. Sea Bean, Florida Bean, a common name for the seed of Entada scandens and of Ormosia dasycarpa. Seaside Bean is Canavalia obtustfolia and Vigna luteola. Sugar Bean, Phaseolus saccharatus and P. lunatus. Sword Bean is Entada scan- dens and Canavalia gladiata. Tick Bean is the 46 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS BEA common field Bean, Faba vulgaris. Tree Bean of Australia is Bauhinia Hookerii. Yam Bean is Dolichos tuberosus. Year Bean is Phaseolus vulgaris. Vanilla Bean is Vanilla planifolia, etc. Bearberry. See Arctostaphylos. Californian. Rhamnus Purshianus. Beard Grass. See Andropogon and Polypogon. Beard-tongue. A popular name of the genus Pentstemon. Bear Grass. See Yucca. Bear's Foot. Helleborus fcetidus, H. viridis, H. niger, Aconitum napellus and Alchemilla vul- garis. Beato'nia. Named in honor of Donald Beaton, a celebrated Scotch gardener and writer. Nat. Ord. Iridacem. A small genus of Mexican bulbs, allied to the Tigridia, and requiring the same treat- . ment. Flowers purple, growing in pairs or singly on a stem about a foot high. Intro- duced in 1841. Propagated by offsets. Beauca'rnea. A commemorative name. Nat. Ord. Liliaceaz. A name given to a genus of Agave-like lili- aceous plants, formerly described under the name Pincenectitia. The few known species are Mexican plants, with arborescent stems, remarkable for the large bulbiform swelling which, from the earliest stages of its growth, forms at its base ; these support a spreading terminal crown of long narrow leaves. B. re- curvata, is a noble conservatory plant when it has formed a large stem and full head of leaves ; its flowers from 4,000 to 5,000 in number, are white, small, and fragrant, borne in a large terminal panicle, three or more feet in height. Beaucarneas are grown principally for the beauty of their foliage and are grotesque, graceful, and extremely curious in habit and form. They are also excellent subjects for sub-tropical or lawn decoration in summer. Propagated chiefly by imported seeds. Beaufo'rtia. Named after Mary, Duchess of Beaufort. Nat. Ord. Myrtacem. A small genus of very desirable green-house plants from New Holland. They should be grown in loam and sand in about equal quantities, and in a cool part of the green- house will flower splendidly. The flowers are scarlet, pink, or red. Propagated by cuttings of the half-ripened wood. Beaumo'ntia. Named after Mrs. Beaumont, of Bretton Hall, Eng. Nat. Ord. Apocynacece. This genus of green-house twiners has but few species, all natives of the East Indies. B. grandifiora is remarkable for its handsome flowers which are pure white, borne in ter- minal or axillary corymbs. The plant is diffi- cult of propagation, which is effected by cuttings. Great age is required to bring it into flower. When a large plant is obtained and grown under favorable circumstances, it has but few rivals. Introduced in 1820. Beaver Poison. A common name applied to Cicuta maculata. Beaver Tree or Beaver Wood. Magnolia glauca. Bedding. This term is used by florists, mostly when plants are set out in what is known as the "Carpet," "Ribbon Line," or "Massing in Color" style of decorative planting. The BEG "Carpet Style " is that produced by planting low-growing plants of different colors and forms of leaves, to form carpet-like pat- terns. They must be such plants as present a smooth, well defined color, and not exceed- ing three or four inches in height. To pro- duce the proper effect by this style of planting the plants must be set close enough to form a mass, covering the soil completely up, or the effect will not be so good. Bedding in " ribbon lines " is usually done along margins of drives or walks, in widths from one to ten feet, as desired, the plants used being such as to give the most pleasing contrast in color. The plants usually selected are such as will either form a slope to the walk by planting the highest at the back with the lowest growing in front, or else, if the line is a wide one, such as, by placing the highest plants in the center and the others on each side, will slope to each side of the line. But to keep the lines of color well defined and smooth, the plants must be carefully pinched back, so as to keep each line to its proper height. Bedding by "massing in color" is on the same principle, only that, instead of the plants being planted in lines, they are set in contrasting masses of different colors, in any number of shades desired, though the effect is most marked when but few colors are used in one bed. Large beds are often formed of one color, such as scarlet, maroon, blue, pink, or yellow, which, seen at a distance, in contrast with the green of the lawn, is by many more admired than when the colors are placed together. Bed Straw. One of the common names of the genus Galium. Bee Balm. Mellissa officinalis. Bee Flower, or Bee Orchis. Ophrys Apifera. Bee Larkspur. Delphinium grandiflorum. Beech. American. See Fagus ferruginea. Blue. Carpinus Americana. Common. See Fagus sylvatica. Beech-drops or Cancer Root. A common name of Epiphegus Virginica, a parasite that grows on the roots of Beech trees. Beech Fern. Polypodium Phegopteris. Beech Horn, or Horst. Carpinus Betulus. Beef Steak Plant. Saxifraga Sarmentosa, and Begonia Evansiana. BeefWood. The genus Casuarina. Beet, Chard, Sea-Kale, or Spinach. Beta Braziliense, and B. Cicla. Beet. Red. Beta vulgaris, which see. Befa'ria. In memory of M. Bejar, a Spanish botanist. Nat. Ord. Ericaceae. A genus of green-house evergreen shrubs, found in the Alpine districts of Peru and Mexico. They are mostly, extremely beauti- ful plants, and grow at a great height in the mountainous districts, often at the very extreme of vegetation. The genus is nearly related to Rhododendron; it is rarely culti- vated. Syn. Bejaria. Beggar's Lice. A common name of Cynoglossum Morisoni. Beggar's Ticks. The common name of a very disagreeable weed, Bidens chrysanthemoides. It has received this distinctive name because the fruit adheres to anything with which it comes in contact. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 47 BEG Bego'nia. Named in honor of M. Begon, a French patron of botany. Nat. Ord. Bego- niacece. All the species of Begonia are interesting and beautiful winter ornaments of the hot- house or green-house, of the simplest culture in any rich soil if allowed an abundant supply of water. Cuttings may be struck without trouble. B. Rex, the type of the large-leaved sorts, and the most ornamental of the species, is best propagated by cutting the leaves in sections, each being so cut as to form a junc- tion of the ribs at the lower end of the cutting. These should be laid in a damp, warm place, or on the propagating bench with good bottom heat ; or a leaf, or a portion of one, may be laid flat in any shady place in the house. Within the last twenty-five years a new race of tuberous-rooted sorts has been introduced from the South American Andes, of which B. rosceflora, B. Veitchii, B. octopetala and B. Boliviensis are typical species, from which, by cross-fertilization and selection a large num- ber of beautiful and almost hardy kinds have beeD raised. This is shown in the size, sub- stance, and rich colors of the flowers of the majority of the plants of this race. They are equally valuable for the green-house or for out-door decoration in summer. The tubers should be kept warm and dry during the winter, from November to April, when they may be started into growth. Bego'nia'ceee. A natural order, comprising a large number of useful and ornamental garden plants. The only genera are Begonia and Begoniella. The species are common in the East and West Indies, and South America, and a few are found in Madagascar, and South Africa. They are said to possess bitter and astringent qualities. Bellado'nna. See Atropa Belladonna. Bellado'nna Lily. A common name for Ama- ryllis Belladonna. Belleva'lia. In memory of P. R. Belleval, a French botanist. Nat. Ord. hiliacea,. A small genus of bulbous plants found in the Mediterranean region and in temperate Asia. They are perfectly hardy, growing freely under the same conditions in which the Grape Hyacinth, Muscari, is grown, and the finer species of which they closely resemble. Introduced in 1844. Bell-flower. See Campanula. Be'llis. The Daisy. From bellus, pretty; re- ferring to the flowers. Nat. Ord. Compositce. Well-known perennials, of which B.perennis, the common Daisy, has been in cultivation in the British and Continental gardens from time immemorial. The most beautiful varieties are the large double, the large quilled, and the Hen-and-Chickens; but there are many others. In Germany numerous curious varie- ties have been raised by saving the seed of the handsomest kinds. Each sort is much improved by being taken up, divided, and re- planted every autumn. They are all admira- ble plants for making edgings to borders, and they are well suited for growing in pots, though at present they are almost neglected. They thrive best in a loamy soil, richly man- ured, which should be dug over and well broken before planting, and they will bear transplanting even when in flower, provided BER they are taken up with a portion of soil at- tached. These pretty plants are seldom seen in our gardens in as great abundance as they deserve to be, which is owing, no doubt, to their being very impatient of our hot sum- mers. They should therefore be grown in a shady and rather cool border. Be'llium. A genus of pretty dwarf free-flower- ing plants, nearly related to the common Daisy, Bellis perennis, and requiring similar treatment. Excellent plants for rockwork or a similar situation. Bell Pepper. See Capsicum. Bellwort. See Utricularia grandi&ora. Bellworts. The English popular name for the Nat. Ord. Campanulacece. Belope'rone. A considerable genus of Acan- thacece, from Tropical America, containing many species of beautiful shrubs with large purple or blue flowers borne on terminal spikes ; nearly allied to Justicia, and requiring the same treatment. Bene. See Sesamum. Bengal Quince. See JEgle. Benjamin Bush. A popular name of Lindera Benzoin, which is also called Spice Bush. Bent Grass. See Agrostis. Bentha'mia. Named after Mr. Bentham, a dis- tinguished English botanist. Nat. Ord. Cor- nacem. A small genus of half-hardy evergreen shrubs, natives of northern India. The fruit makes it a conspicuous plant for the lawn. It is of a yellowish white color, about the size of a Raspberry, but not edible. B. Japonica, very much resembles the flowering Dogwood, blooming two months later in the season. Propagated from seeds or by cuttings. Benzoin. A genus of native shrubs now known as Lindera, which see. Berberida'ceee. A natural order of shrubs or hardy perennials, with terminal or axillary flowers, usually racemose, with alternate, compound leaves. These plants are found in South America as far as the Straits of Magel- lan, and in the mountainous parts of the northern hemisphere. They are common in the northern provinces of India, but none are found in Africa, Australia, or the South Sea Islands. The fruit of some of the species is used as a preserve, and is sometimes eaten in a fresh or dried state. They possess acid, bitter, and astringent qualities, and oxalic acid occurs in some. The stem and bark of several species are used in dyeing yellow. The astringent substance called Lycium by Dioscorides is supposed to be furnished by the root of various species of Berberry, and a similar preparation is much used in India as a febrifuge. The pinnate-leaved Berberries form the sub-genus Mahonia. The order con- tains twelve genera and a hundred and ten species, among which are Berberis, Leontice, Epimedium, Nandina, Jeffersonia, etc. Berberido'psis. From Berberis, and opis, like ; resembling the Barberry. Nat. Ord. Berberi- dacece. A small genus of half-hardy evergreen shrubs, natives of Chili. B. corallma is a handsome shrub of sub-scandent habit, thick, 48 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS BEE leathery leaves, and drooping, many-flowered racemes of long-stalked, crimson-scarlet flowers. This species is perfectly hardy south of Washington, and is a shrub of re- markable beauty. Propagated by cuttings or from seed. Introduced in 1862. Be'rberis. The Barberry. From berberys, its Arabian name. Nat. Ord. Berberidacece. There are several varieties of the common Barberry, all of which are ornamental shrubs, easily propagated by cuttings or layers, and well adapted for a large lawn, especially the purple-leaved variety. They thrive best, in rather a light, sandy soil. The fruit is acid and highly esteemed for preserving, and for this purpose the seedless variety, B. vulgaris asperina, is mostly preferred. This variety is a native of Europe. B. Darwinii, introduced from Chili in 1849, is one of the most beautiful of the genus. It forms a densely spreading bush with very numerous racemes of bright orange colored flowers. Berche'mia. Named after M. Berchern, a French botanist. Nat. Ord. Rhamnacece. B. volubilis is a common climbing shrub in the swamps of Virginia and the Carolinas, where it is popularly known as Supple-Jack, because of its lithe, tough stems. In foreign countries it is cultivated as an ornamental climber, but in dry soils it rarely grows more than eight or ten feet in height. Berkhey'a. See Stobaza. Bergamot A common name for Mentha citrata. American "Wild. Monardafistulosa. Medicinal. Citrus Bergamia var. vulgaris. Bermuda Grass. See Cynodon Dactylon. Bermuda Lily. See Lilium Harrisii. Bertholle'tia. Brazil Nut. Named after L. C. Berthollet, a distinguished chemist. Nat. Ord. Myrtacece. B. excelsa, the tree that bears the Brazil Nuts of commerce, is the only species of this genus, and is one of the most majestic trees in the Brazilian forests. It often attains a height of 150 feet, and has a diameter of from three to four feet at the base. It is found in the greatest abundance in the forests on the banks of the Amazon, and it is also common in Central America, and in several of the States of South America. The nuts are incased in a shell from four to six inches in diameter, which is extremely hard. Each shell contains abou b twenty nuts. So enormous is the weight of this fruit, that at the period when it falls the natives dare not enter the forests without covering their heads and shoulders with a strong buckler of wood. The time for collect- ing these nuts is in winter, when the Indians, in great numbers, ascend the rivers to obtain their harvest of nuts, upon which they depend for the year's subsistence. When the nuts are spread on the ground all the animals of the forest surround them and dispute their pos- session. The Indians say it is the feast of the animals as well as themselves, but they are angry with their rivalry. The gathering of the nuts is celebrated with rejoicings, like the "Harvest Home" of Old England. About once in Ave years another species or variety is seen in small quantities in a few of the fruit stores of New York. It is of a lighter color, much less angular, less oily, and very much finer in quality than the common Brazil Nut. BET It is called the Paradise Nut, and is quite dis- tinct. It is said to grow in the interior of the country, and is gathered by the Indians, and brought to the coast, which they visit at long intervals for the purpose of trade. Bertolo'nia. In honor of A. Bertoloni, an Italian botanist. Nat. Ord. Melastomacece. A genus of very pretty trailing or creeping plants, natives of the dense forests of Brazil. B. maculata, typical of the genus, is an exceed- ingly beautiful hot-house creeper. The leaves are spotted on the surface, and purple under- neath. It requires a warm, moist atmosphere, and is readily increased by cuttings. Intro- duced in 1848. Beschorne'ria. A genus of Agave-like Amaryl- lidaceous plants, allied to ILittma, and Four- croya. B. tubiflora, and B. yuccoides, are highly ornamental species, very useful for lawn decoration in summer. Besle'ria. Erect, dwarf, branching plants, bear- ing yellow, white, or purple flowers and scar- let or purple berries, introduced from tropical America and belonging to the Nat. Ord. Ges- neracece. They are very pretty stove shrubs, requir- ing a moist, warm atmosphere, and are readily increased by cuttings. Besse'ra. Named after Dr. Besser, professor of botany at Brody. Nat. Ord. Liliacem. A small genus of very beautiful Mexican bulbs, allied to the Squills. The flowers are scarlet, purple, or white, produced on slender scapes about a foot high. They may be grown in a frame, like half-hardy bulbs, but it is less trouble to treat them the same as the Tigridia. The bulbs must be kept warm and dry during the winter, if taken up Propa- gated by offsets. Introduced in 1846. Be'ta. Beet. From bett, the Celtic word for red ; in reference to the red color of the Beet. Nat. Ord. Chenopodiacem. The several species included in this genus are natives of Europe, Northern Africa, and Western Asia. Four of the species are culti- vated as esculents ; the others are of no par- ticular interest. B. vulgaris, the parent of our garden varieties, is a native of Egypt and along the whole sea-coast of the Mediterranean, and is now found growing wild in those locali- ties. The Beet has been highly esteemed as a garden vegetable for more than 2,000 years, and is specially noticed by all the early writers on plants. The roots of the Beet have been much improved by cultivation, both as regards size and quality, and long ago they arrived at that state of perfection beyond which pro- gress in the line of improvement must, of necessity, be slow. The several varieties of Mangel-wurzel and Sugar Beet, now grown so extensively in Europe, belong to the species B. vulgaris var. macrorhiza. The Chard Beet, or Swiss Chard, is B. cycla, a native of Portugal, first introduced into English gar- dens in 1670. It is extensively cultivated in the gardens of Europe, and forms one of the principal vegetables of the laboring class, the leaves only being used. They are stripped off and boiled as a substitute for Spinach. The rib of the leaf, which is strong and fleshy, is sometimes dressed as Aspar- agus. Sea Beet is B. maritima, a species of easy culture, used for greens only, and one of AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 49 BET the best plants under cultivation for that use. It is a native of the British coasts. The Chilian Beet, B. Chiliensis, a species of recent introduction, a native of Chili, as its name implies, is becoming popular for orna- mental gardening, particularly for large rib- bon borders, the two varieties, one with bright yellow, the other with crimson foliage, contrasting finely with other plants. Betony. The common name of Stachys Be- tonica. Be'tula. Birch. From its Celtic name, betu. Nat. Ord. Betulacece. An extensive genus of deciduous trees, com- mon in all the cold and inhospitable climates. Some of the species are the last trees found as we approach the snow in the most elevated districts. This genus is largely represented in our Northern States by B. alba, the com- mon White Birch, which, from the tremulous habit of the foliage, is in some localities called Poplar Birch. This species is remarkable for its elegance. It seldom divides the main stem, which extends to the summit of the tree, giving out from all parts numerous slender branches, forming a very neat and beautiful spray of a dark chocolate color, contrasting finely with the whiteness of the trunk. When grown as a single specimen, this tree assumes a beautiful pyramidal form, making a moder- ate-sized tree of great beauty. B. lenta is the Black or Cherry Birch, so named from its resemblance to the American Black Cherries. The bark of the young twigs of this species has a sweet, aromatic taste. The wood is dark rose color, fine-grained, and much used in fine cabinet work. There are several other native species common in our Northern States, all interesting, mostly low-growing trees or large shrubs. Beurre'. A general name applied to a class of dessert Pears, which have their flesh of what is called a buttery texture, as the name itself indicates. Bi. In compounds signifies twice ; as Bicolor, two-colored ; Bidentate, with two teeth. Bidens. The botanical name of the well-known Beggar's Ticks. Bidwi'llia. Named after Mr. Bidwill, of Sydney, an ardent cultivator of bulbs. Nat. Ord. Liliacem. A small genus of Australian and Peruvian bulbs, allied to Anthericum. The flowers are white, borne in racemes, and differing but little from the Asphodelus. Propagated by offsets. Biennial. Lasting two years. A biennial plant requires two years to form its flowers and fruit ; growing one year, and flowering, fruit- ing and dying the next. This, however, is not true of all climates. Many plants that are classed as biennials in England, when sown in the southern parts of the United States, or in a hot-bed in March, at the North, and planted out in summer, will flower, seed, and die just as many annuals do. Bifrena'ria. From bis, twice, and frcmum, a strap ; in reference to the double strap, or band, by means of which the pollen masses are connected with their gland. Nat. Ord. Orchidace&. A genus of pretty orchids, closely allied to Maxillaria, differing very slightly from that BIL genus, and succeeding well under the same treatment. B. Harrisoniaz, a very beautiful white species, with a purple lip, is known in cultivation under the following synonyms : Colax, Dendrobium, Lycaste, and Maxillaria Harrisonim. Bigno'nia. Trumpet Creeper. Named after Abbe Bignon, librarian to Louis XIV. Nat. Ord. Bignoniacem. An extensive genus of highly ornamental plants, and the type of an order equally beauti- ful. Most of the species are hot-house climbers, though a few assume a more arbo- rescent character. B. capreolata, a native of Florida, is sufficiently hardy to withstand our severest weather when trained against a wall. The flowers of all are large and showy, pro- duced in panicles, and are of various colors, red, blue, white, or yellow. They should be grown in rich loam, in a sunny position, or they will not flower well. Introduced in 1820. B. radicans, is a synonym of Tecoma radicans, which see. B. Venusta, one of the most beautiful of the genus, is particularly suited for large green- houses, for training on rafters, or festooning between pillars, etc. Producing its rich, orange-red flowers in clusters, in great pro- fusion, during the winter months, makes it still more desirable. B. magnifica, with flow- ers varying from delicate mauve to rich pur- plish crimson, introduced from Columbia in 1879, is another very handsome and showy species, flowering in summer. Bignonia'ceae. A large order of trees, or twin- ing shrubby plants, with usually opposite compound leaves, and showy, often trumpet- shaped flowers. The plants are found in the tropical regions of both hemispheres, but most largely in the eastern. In America they extend from Pennsylvania in the North to Chili in the South. Some yield dyes, and others supply timber. There are forty-six genera, and over 450 known species. Bignonia, Catalpa, Tecoma, and Eccromocarpus are rep- resentative genera. Big-Root. See Megarrhiza. Billardie'ra. Apple Berry. Named after Labil- lardiere, a French botanist. Nat. Ord. Pittos- poracew. A small genus of green-house evergreen climbers, natives of Australia and Tasmania. The species are not remarkable for beauty of plant or flower, but are highly esteemed for their sub-acid fruit, which is pleasant and wholesome. The fruit is a small berry, either blue or amber-colored. Propagated by cut- tings. Billbe'rgia, Named after Billberg, a Swedish botanist. Nat. Ord. BromeliacetB. These are handsome plants when well grown. The colors of the flowers are at once rich, vivid, and delicate, and are usually contrasted in the highest manner by the equally bright tints of the colored bracts. They should be grown in pots of rich loam, in a warm green- house, or plunged into an active hot-bed until the growth is completed, when a cooler and drier place, as on a shelf of the hot-house, will induce them to flower freely. Propagated by suckers. Introduced from Brazil in 1825. Billberry. See Vaccinium. Bilstead. A common name of the Liquidambar. 50 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS BIN Binding Plants. A name that may be given to such plants, the roots of which are useful for binding the soil on the banks of reservoirs, aqueducts, etc., as well as the loose sand- banks on exposed shores or wastes. Various species of Willows, Raspberries, Blackberries, Vaeciniums, and with strong spreading roots, are useful for the former. Alsike Clover is also well suited for this purpose, its long, fibrous roots holding the soil well together. The Bermuda Grass, Cynodon Dactylon, is also exceedingly valuable anywhere south of Virginia, and with Ammophila or Calamagrostis arenaria, is invaluable for binding loose sand on exposed sea-shores and water-courses. (See Ammophila). Ampelopsis Veitchii, the Japan or Boston Ivy, has also been found useful for planting on railroad cuttings and embank- ments to prevent loose rocks from falling on the tracks. Bindweed. A popular name for Convolvulus arvensis. Birch. See Betula. Bird Cherry. See Cerasus Padus. Bird of Paradise. A name applied to the flowers of the Strelitzia Regince, from their supposed resemblance. Bird Pepper. Capsicum baccatum. Bird's Bill. Trigonella ornithorrhynchus. Bird's Foot, or Bird's Foot Trefoil. Lotus corn- iculatus. Bird's-nest. Daucus Carota, or Wild Carrot. Bird's-nest Pern. Asplenium Nidus. Birth-root. Trillium erectum. Birth- wort. The genus Aristolochia. Bishop's Cap, or Mitre-wort. The genus Mitella. Bishop' s-wort. Stachys Betonica. Bishop-weed. See JEgopodium podograria. Bismarkia. In honor of the German statesman. An imperfectly-known genus of Palmacece, of which B. nobilis is the only species. It is a very ornamental plant, with the appearance and habit of a Pritchardia. Introduced from Madagascar in 1886. Bitter Almond. Amygdalus communis. Bitter Apple. Cucumis Colocynthis. Bitter Cress. The genus Cardamine. Bitter Nut, or Swamp Hickory. Carya amara. Bitter Root. Lewisia rediviva. Bitter Sweet. A popular name for Celastrus scandens; also applied to Solanum Dulcamara. Bitter Vetch. The genus Orobus. Bitter Weed. Ambrosia artemisiaefolia. Bi'xa. Arnatto. Its native South American name. Nat. Ord. Flacourtiacece. South American trees, or shrubs, B. Orel- lana, commonly known as the Arnatto tree, is a native of tropical America, the West Indies, Sumatra, and Java, and is much valued because of the coloring matter which is pro- cured from the pulp that surrounds the seeds, and which is an important article of com- merce. It seldom attains to more than twelve feet in height. The leaves are of a deeper green on one side than on the other, and are divided by fibres of a reddish-brown color; they are four inches long, broad at the base, BLA and tend to a sharp point. The stem has likewise fibres, which, in Jamacia, are con- verted into serviceable ropes. The tree pro- duces oblong, bristled pods, somewhat re- sembling those of a chestnut. These, at first, are of a beautiful rose -color; but, as they ripen, change to a dark-brown, and bursting open, display a splendid crimson farina, or pulp, in which are contained thirty or forty seeds, in shape similar to raisin stones. This pulp is separated by throwing the freshly- gathered seeds into a tub of water, and stir- ring them until the red matter is detached, when it is strained off and evaporated to the consistency of putty. In this state it is made up into rolls, and is ready for market. This drug is used in coloring cheese, butter, and for inferior chocolates. It is also used by silk- dyers ; and by varnish-makers, for imparting a rich orange tint to some kinds of varnish. Bixi'neae, or Bixa'ceae. A name sometimes given to the order Flacourtiacece, which see. Black Alder, or Winter-berry. Prinos Verti- cillata. Black-berry. See Rubus. Black-berry Lily. See Pardanthus. Black Bind-weed. Polygonum Convolvulus. Black Bryony. See Tamus. Black Gum, or Sour Gum. Nyssa multiflora. Black Haw. Viburnum prunifolium. Black Horehound. Balotta nigra. Black Jack, or Barren Oak. Quercus nigra. Black Moss, or Florida Moss. Tillandsia usneoides. Black Mustard. See Sinapis nigra. Black Oat Grass. Stipa avenacea. Black Oyster Plant. See Scorzonera His- panica. Black Pepper. See Piper nigrum. Black Snake Root. Sanicula Marilandica. Black Thorn. Prunus spinosa, also Crataegus tomentosa. Black Varnish Tree. Melanorrhoea usitatissima. Bladder-wort. The genus Utricularia. Bladder Catch-fly. Silene infiata. Bladder Nut. Staphylea trifoliata, and S. pin- nata. Bladder Senna. borescens. Blanching. This process is effected for the purpose of obtaining crispness, and for con- verting what would, under ordinary circum- stances, be a dangerous plant — in the case of Celery especially so — into a highly popular deli- cacy. Blanching can only be accomplished by entirely excluding the light from the plants, thus depriving the coloring matters of their power to decompose water and carbonic acid gas. Blandfo'rdia. Named in honor of George, Mar- quis of Blandford. Nat. Ord. Liliacem. Beautiful green-house bulbs from New South Wales. They should be grown in large pots filled with leaf mould, loam and sand, placed in the green-house, and, if properly attended to with water, will flower freely. The flowers are crimson or orange. Introduced in 1812. Propagated by seeds and offsets. Colutea herbacea, and C. ar- AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 51 BLA Blazing Star. A common name of Liatris squar- rosa, and also given to Chamcelirium luteum. Ble'chnum. From blechnon, a Greek name for a Fern. Nat. Ord. Polypodiaceoe,. A considerable genus of Ferns of the same group as Lomaria, the distinction between the two consisting in the fructification of Lom- aria being marginal, and that of Blechnum being within the margin. The genus contains a considerable number of species, which are abundant in tropical countries ; South America and the West Indian Islands having contrib- uted the greatest number. Bleeding Heart. The popular name of Dielytra {Dielytra, Dicentra) spectabilis. Blephi'lia. A genus of uninteresting herbs, nearly allied to Monarda, Horse-mint, common in the southern and western States. Blessed Thistle. Cnicus benedictus. A genus of Thistles, natives of the Levant and Persia. Naturalized and common on the roadsides in the southern States ; now called by some authors, Carbenia benedicta. Ble'tia. Named after a Spanish botanist of the name of Blet. Nat. Ord. Orchidaceai. Pretty, tuberous-rooted, terrestrial Orchids, which produce large spikes of shaded purple flowers and require to be grown in pots of fi- brous loam and leaf mould. A somewhat high temperature, say 70° or 75°, with plenty of moisture while they are growing, and a consid- erable reduction of both as soon as it is com- pleted, is necessary to cultivate them in per- fection. They are increased by means of offsets. Introduced from Mexico in 1822. B. Tankervillice, is now included under Phaius, which see. Bli'ghia. Named in honor of Capt. Bligh, who first carried the bread-fruit to the West Indies. Nat. Ord. Sapindacece. This is called the Akee Tree, and is a plant much esteemed in Africa and the West Indies on account of its fruit, which is as large as a goose's egg, and of a reddish or yellow color. This fruit contains several large seeds, the coating of which is eaten ; it is said to possess an agreeable sub-acid taste, very grateful to the palate. Syn. Cupania. Blight. As used by cultivators this term is of vague significance. It is applied to those diseases of grain, etc., which usually depend upon the presence of parasitic Fungi. The Pear Blight so destructive to pear trees for many years past, is now generally believed to be owing to the presence of a Fungus, though not a few still believe that it is to be attributed to a diseased condition of the sap. There have been several theories put forth to account for this destructive disease, and the subject still remains more or less a mystery. Insects have also been charged with producing the disease ; but whatever the cause, all know the results to be only too fatal, and, thus far, without remedy. Blight is not confined to the field and the orchard, but also finds its way to plants in the garden. If Fungi are not the cause of the disease, they may be said to be always present as a result. Blind Shoots. A term given to such shoots as do not show flower buds. Blood Flower. The common name for flee- manthus. West Indian. Asclepias curassavica. . B(E Blood Root. See Sanguinaria Canadense. Blood Wood, Australian. Eucalyptus corym- bosa. E. Indian. Lagerstroemia Regince. Blue Bells. Campanula rotundifolia, and Scilla nutans. Blue-berry. Vaccinium Pennsylvanicum, etc. Blue-bottle. Centaurea cyanus. Blue Cohosh. A popular name of Caulophyllum thalictroides, also called the Pappoose root. Blue Curls. A popular name for the genus Trichostema. Blue Daisy. Agathea coelesUs and Aster Tripo- lium. Blue-eyed Grass. Sisyrinchium Bermudianum. Blue Flag. Iris versicolor. Blue Grass. Kentucky. See Poa pratensis. Blue Gum. See Eucalyptus globulus. Blue Palmetto. See Rhapidophyllum. Blue Pea. See Clitoria ternatea. Blue Tangle. Dangleberry, Huckleberry. Gay- lussacia frondosa. Bluets. Common name for Houstonia ccerulea ; also the French name for Centaurea Cyanus. Blue Weed, or Viper's Bugloss. Echium vul- gar e. Blumenba'chia. In honor of Dr. Blumenbach, of Gottingen, a distinguished comparative anatomist. Nat. Ord. Loasaceas. Elegant branched climbing or trailing, an- nual, biennial, or perennial herbs, with large white or yellow flowers, and generally covered with stinging hairs, which are very objection- able. Bocco'nia. Named after P. Bocconi, M.D., a Sicilian. Nat. Ord. Papaveracece. B. cordata, the only species adapted for the border, is a handsome, hardy herbaceous plant, a small clump or single specimen of which would take high rank among ornamen- tal-leaved plants, but unfortunately, it refuses to be kept within bounds, and will, when once established, not only take possession of the border, but the lawn as well ; and for this reason, notwithstanding its great beauty, it should not be planted on the lawn. Syns. B. japonica and Macleaya yedoensis. Bcehme'ria. Ramee or Ramie. In memory of George Rudolph Bcehmer, a German botanist. Nat. Ord. Urticacem. A genus of herbaceous plants or shrubs, allied to the true Nettles, but differing from them in not having stinging hairs. The most interesting species is B. nivea, the Chinese Grass-cloth Plant. It is a small, shrubby plant, about three or four feet high, throwing up numerous straight shoots, which are about as thick as the little finger, and covered with soft short hairs. Its leaves grow on long hairy footstalks, and are broadly heart- shaped, about six inches long and four broad. They are of a deep green color on the upper side, but covered on the under side with a dense coating of white down, which gives them an appearance like that of frosted silver. The beautiful fabric known as Grass-cloth, which rivals the finest cambric in softness of texture, is manufactured from the fiber ob- tained from the inner bark of this plant. The Chinese bestow an immense amount of care 52 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS BOG and labor upon its cultivation and the prep- aration of its fiber. They obtain three crops of its stems annually, the second being con- sidered the best. To obtain the fiber, the bark is stripped off in two long pieces and carefully scraped with a knife, so as to get rid of all useless matter, after which it is softened and separated into fine filaments either by steeping it in hot water or holding it over steam. This plant has been introduced into the Southern States, where it grows freely ; but the difficulty in separating the fiber so as to make its production profitable, has yet to be overcome. Bog Asphodel. See Narthecium. Bog Moss. See Sphagnum. Bog Myrtle. Myrica Gale. Bog Rush. Juncus. Common in all marshy grounds or swamps. Boilers, Greenhouse. See Heating. Bokhara Clover. One of the popular names of Melilotus Alba; an excellent Bee-food plant all season. Bolbophy'llum. From bolbos, a bulb, and phyl- lon, a leaf; referring to the leaves issuing from the apex of the pseudo-bulbs. Nat. Ord. Orchidacem. A genus of dwarf epiphytal Orchids from Africa and the East Indies, more curious than beautiful. Flowers large, single or in pairs; color, yellow or white, with purple spots or stripes. Not often seen in collections. Syn. Bulbophyllum. Bo'llea. Derivation of name not given. Nat. Ord. Orchidacem. A small genus of epiphytal Orchids, consist- ing of only two species, natives of New Gren- ada. They are showy plants, with radical foliage, from the base of which the flowers are produced on single scapes. The flowers are shaded pink, with a bright yellow lip. They require to be grown in pots of Moss, in rather a warm house, and are increased by division. Placed by some authors under Zygopetalum. Bolto'nia. A genus of three species belonging to the Composite family, and peculiar to North America, where they extend from Canada to the Southern States. They produce an abun- dance of flower heads with whitish or purplish rays, very much like the Asters to which genus they might at first glance be referred. They are well worth a place in the mixed border. Boma'rea. Derivation of name not given. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacem. A somewhat extensive genus of tuberous- rooted plants, formerly included in the genus Alstrcemeria, and differing only in the fruit. The species abound in the Peruvian Andes, and are common in other high elevations in South America. B. edulis is a West Indian species, the roots of which are eaten like those of the Jerusalem Artichoke. For culture and propagation see Alstrcemeria. Bo'mbax. Silk Cotton Tree. From bombax, cotton ; in reference to the woolly hairs which envelop the seed, like those of the Cotton- plant. Nat. Ord. Sterculiaceai. A genus of tall growing trees, that abound in South America and the East and West Indies. B. Ceiba, a typical species, has a spiny trunk, and is one of the tallest trees of BOB both Indies, but the wood is very light and not much valued except for canoes. Their trunks are so large, that when hollowed out they make very large ones, so that in the West Indies they frequently carry from fifteen to twenty hogsheads of sugar, of from six to twelve hundred pounds each. The cotton which is enclosed in the seed-vessels is seldom used, except by the poorer inhabitant, to stuff pil- lows or chairs ; and it is generally thought unwholesome to lie upon. Bonapa'rtea. Named in honor of Napoleon Bonaparte. Nat. Ord. Bromeliacem. A genus remarkable for the gracefulness of their long, rush-like leaves. They are well adapted for growing in vases out of doors in summer. They require a warm house in winter. Propagated by seeds. Introduced from Mexico in 1828. B. juncea has been placed under the genus Agave, as A. geminiflora, by some botanists. Bone Dust. One of the safest and best of con- centrated fertilizers. When used broadcast, it should be sown on the soil after digging or plowing, just thick enough to cover it with a thin layer, about as thickly as sawdust or sand is used on a floor. If used on dug ground, it should be well chopped and mixed through the soil, so as to mix it to a depth of five or six inches. If on ground that has been plowed, a thorough harrowing will mix it to the required depth. This thickness will re- quire at the rate of from fifteen hundred to twenty-five hundred pounds per acre. If to be used in drills or "hills," or only where seed are to be sown or plants planted, and not over the whole ground, it will take only about from one hundred and fifty to three hundred pounds per acre, which should be mixed in the soil in the same manner. Boneset. See Eupatorium. Bonne'tia. Named after C. Bonnet, a disting- uished naturalist. Nat. Ord. Ternstromiacem. A small genus of Brazilian and Peruvian shrubs or low growing trees, the flowers of which are mostly white, nearly as large as those of a Camellia and are produced singly and in panicles. The leaves of B. paniculata, have an agreeable aromatic smell when bruised. Bonus Henricus, Good King Henry. Cheno- podium Bonus Henricus. Boraginaceae. A large order of herbs or shrubs, having spirally coiled inflorescence, round stems and alternate rough leaves. The fruit consists of distinct seeds without albumen. The plants are principally natives of northern temperate regions. They are found in southern Europe, the Levant, and Central Asia. In high northern latitudes they are less frequent, and nearly dis- appear within the tropics. The plants abound in mucilaginous and demulcent quali- ties. Some yield dyes, as Alkanet (Anchusa tinctoria). The common Borage (Borago officinalis), when steeped in water, imparts coolness to it, and is used in the beverage called cold tankard. The leaves of Mertensia maritima have the taste of Oysters, whence the common name of Oyster Plant. The species of Myosotis are universally prized under the name of Forget-me-not. There are fifty- eight known genera of this order, and over BOCCONIA. BRUSSELS SPROUTS. BONAPARTEA. BOBASSU8 (PALMYRA PALM.) BOUVARDIAS. WrftSfeak BORECOLE (BROWN CURLED KALE). BORAGO OFFICINALIS. BROWAXLIA. BORECOLE (DWARF GREEN CURLED SCOTCH KALE). EEUGMANSIA StTAYEOLENS. ERACHYCOME. 53 AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 53 BOR six hundred species. Myosotis, Borago, Cynoglossum, Lithospermum, Cerinthe, Symphy- tum, and Anchusa, are examples of this order. Bora'go. Borage. Altered from cor, heart, and ago, to affect ; referring to the cordial quali- ities of the herbs. Nat. Ord. Boraginacece. Hardy annual and perennial herbs, common throughout Europe. The leaves of B. officinalis are sometimes used in salads or boiled as spinach. The spikes of flowers are aromatic, and sometimes used in cooling drinks. All the species are easily cultivated and are admir- ably adapted for naturalizing in dry, stony places. They also afford excellent food for bees during the whole season. Bora'ssus. Palmyra Palm. Linnaeus applied this name to the spathe of the date-palm. Nat. Ord. Palmacm. A genus of magnificent Palms, consisting of two species only, which have a wide geo- graphical distribution, ranging from the north-eastern parts of Arabia, through the Indian Ocean, and the southern parts of Hindostan, to the Bay of Bengal. The number of Palmyras in the Jaffua peninsula and adjacent islands alone has been estimated at nearly six million and a half, being at the rate of thirty-two trees for each of the popu- lation. The utility of the plant is commensu- rate with its extended dispersion, a providen- tial arrangement in the economy of nature, of which the food-plants afford many instructive examples. This plant is believed to yield one- fourth part of the food of about 250,000 in- habitants of the northern provinces of Ceylon, while it forms the chief support of six or seven millions of the people of India and other parts of Asia ; thus, remarks Seeman in his History of Palms, " proving itself one of the most important plants on earth, rival- ing the date-tree, and ranking only below the cocoa-nut palm in usefulness." The fronds give shelter to scores of animals by night and day, besides affording a refreshing supply of moisture, the grooves of the petioles and the construction of the leaves being peculiarly suitable for conveying and retain- ing rain. The same causes attract orchids and other epiphytes, and ferns, which find their conditions of growth on the stem ; and various species of the fig, including the true banyan-tree, are found in living embrace with the Palmyra. In the Botanic Garden at Calcutta a banyan sprang from the crown of a palm where the seed had been deposited by a bird, and, sending its roots down to the earth through the palm-stem, destroyed and replaced it. But in the region of the Palmyra, the banyan often becomes the foster-mother of that beautiful and serviceable plant. One of the largest banyans of Ceylon, the resort of pleasure parties from Jaffua, has two or three Palmyras growing in it, the united trees cover- ing one and one-twelfth acres of ground. The cocoa palm is celebrated for its 365 uses ; a poem in the Tamil language extols the Palmyra for 800 purposes to which it can be applied, without exhausting the catalogue. The roots yield a medicine ; the young plants are used for food, prepared in various ways ; the wood serves innumerable purposes, in building and furnishing houses, and for the manufacture of umbrella handles, walking-canes, fancy boxes, BOR and for hundreds of other small articles; . fields are fenced with the mid-rib of its leaves, the decayed leaves furnish good manure for the soil ; mats are made of the leaves, and are used instead of carpets on the floors, for ceilings, for drying coffee upon ; baskets, bags, hats, caps, fans, in short, everything manu- factured of wood or straw, is also produced from some part or parts of this palm. The plants reach maturity about the twelfth or fifteenth year. Then they yield a toddy, "a beverage almost as famous for its use as for its abuse." The fruit of this palm is sometimes eaten raw, but more generally roasted, and is in great repute by the natives, who assemble together under the shade of a tree, light a fire, squat around it, sucking the pulp out of the fibres of the roasted fruits, tearing them asunder with nails and teeth in the most approved style, and presenting a truly oriental spectacle of gustative enjoyment. A full grown Palmyra is from sixty to seventy feet high : the trunk at the bottom is about five and a half feet, and at the top, two and a half feet in circumference. Borders. Flower. A flower-border is generally a continuous bed of greater length than width, skirting a shrubbery or fence, and containing plants of a mixed character. It should be thoroughly drained, well manured, and raised slightly above the surrounding level. No rules can be laid down as to the arrangement of the plants, which of course depends on indi- vidual taste ; all formal lines, however, should be avoided, the taller plants either singly or in groups forming the back-ground, with the dwarfer subjects in front. As the object should be to obtain a continuous succession of bloom, the best results will be obtained when the border is made up mainly, of herbaceous perennials as permanent occupants, with a liberal admixture of hardy spring-blooming bulbs, such as Narcissus, Snow-drops, Tulips, Scillas, etc., assisted by quantities of summer blooming plants, Lantanas, Geraniums, Dahlias, Heliotrope, etc. Many sorts of hardy annuals are useful to fill up vacant places, and assist largely to keep up a succession of bloom till frost comes. See Herbaceous Plants. Borbo'nia. A genus of ornamental green- house evergreen shrubs belonging to the pea- flowered section of Leguminosm, and num- bering some thirteen species, all natives of the Cape of Good Hope. The flowers are gener- ally yellow, borne in terminal heads. They require cool green-house treatment and are propagated by cuttings. Borecole. Kale. Brassica oleracea fimbriata. The chief characteristic of the Borecoles or Kales consists in their not producing heads like the Cabbage, or eatable flowers like the Cauliflower or Broccoli, and by their beauti- fully cut and curled leaves, which are of a green or purple color, or variegated with red, green, or yellow. Several of the sub- varieties are known in our markets, and ex- tensively grown by market gardeners, the most popular being the dwarf green curled Scotch, the brown or purple German curled ; and for early spring use, the Siberian Kale or " Sprouts." The Borecole is a native of the British coasts and the north of Europe. The garden varieties are not many removes from the species. 54 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS BOR Boro'nia. Named after Boroni, an Italian attendant of Dr. Sibthorp. Nat. Ord. Rutacew. A genus of elegant green-house shrubs from New Holland. The flowers are pink or whitish. They are very elegant and useful shrubs, requiring the same treatment as ordinary hard-wooded green-house plants, being much aided by a little extra heat in spring when starting into growth. Propa- gated by cuttings. Bossiae'a. Named after M. Bossier Lamartiniere, a French botanist, who accompanied the unfortunate La Peyrouse round the world. Elegant Australian green-house shrubs of the Nat. Ord. LeguminoscB. Flowers yellow or yellow and purple, B. linophylla, B. rotundifolia, B. cinerea (Syn. B. tenuicaulis), and others of the genus are highly ornamental, and no green-house collection of any pretensions is to be found without some of them. Propagation by cuttings or seeds. Boswe'llia. Olibanum Tree. Ornamental and economic evergreen trees of the Nat. Ord. Burseracece. These trees are remarkable as furnishing a gum-resin. B. glabra is used in India in place of pitch ; B. thurifera, known also as B. serrata, a very common tree in Coromandel, furnishes the resin known as Indian Olibanum, which is supposed to have been the Frankin- cense of the Ancients, and is still employed for its grateful perfumes as incense in the Roman Catholic churches. Botry'chium. Moonwort. From botrys, a bunch ; in reference to the bunch-like form of the fructification forming a separate branch on frond. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacem. A genus of hardy ferns, composed of about a dozen species, found in nearly all countries except Africa. B. lunaria, Moonwort, is found rarely in the North and West. B. Vir- ginica is a very beautiful and ornamental native species, easily transplanted to the hardy fernery. Many of the other species are common in rich woods. Bottle-brush. Equisetum sylvaticum, E. arvense, and Hippuris vulgaris. Bottle-brush Flowers. The flowers of Beau- fortia splendens, Melaleuca hypericifolia, Metro- siderosjloribunda, and some species of Callis- temon. Bottle-gourd. Lagenaria vulgaris. Bottle-grass. One of the common names of Setaria. Bottle-tree, Australian. Brachychiton (Dela- bechea) rupestris. Bougainvi'llea. Named after the French navi- gator De Bougainville. Nat. Ord. Nyctagi- naceas. Gorgeous warm green-house or conserva- tory plants, comprising some of the most showy climbers in cultivation. Their beauty lies in the showy rose-colored bracts which envelop the small greenish flowers. Those of B. spectabilis, are singularly handsome. B. glabra may be grown in pots but the other species require more room and are best planted out in the green-house border. Na- tives of South America ; easily increased by cuttings. Bouncing Bet. A popular name of Saponaria officinalis. BOU Bouquets, Baskets of Flowers, etc. Bouquet making is (or at least ought to be) the art of arranging cut flowers. Many people decry the artificial arrangement of flowers, but how shall we otherwise use them to advantage? The moment we begiu to tie them together we leave nature, and ought to do so only to study art. In their simplest arrangement, form and color must be studied to produce the best eftVct, and whoever best accomplishes this, will surely succeed in displaying his flowers to the best, advantage. Probably the simplest, easiest, and com- monly the most desirable, method of using cut flowers is arranging them in vases. The more loosely and unconfused, the better. Crowding is particularly to be avoided, and to accomplish this readily a good base of greens is required, to keep the flowers apart. This filling up is a very important part in all bouquet making, and the neglect of it is the greatest stumbling-block of the uninitiated. Spiked and drooping flowers, with branches and sprays of delicate green, are indispensable to the grace and beauty of a vase bouquet. To preserve the individuality of flowers, which is of the greatest importance, the placing of those of similar size and form together ought to be avoided. Thus Heliotrope, Stevia, Eupa- torium, or Alyssum, when combined, lose their distinctive beauty ; but, if placed in juxta- position to larger flowers, and those of other forms, their beauty is heightened by contrast. It may be stated as a rule, that small flowers should never be massed together. Large flowers with green leaves or branches may be used to advantage alone, but a judicious con- trast of forms is most effective. Some years ago, Bouquets were invariably arranged in the formal style, the colors being used in consecutive rings, or alternating with each other in geometrical forms. Taste, or fashion, if you will, has changed for the better, and closely-made, mushroom-like bouquets, are now the exception rather than the rule. The flowers are now arranged quite loosely, plenty of Maiden-hair Fern and Smilax being used so as to show off each flower distinctly. Indeed the modern Bouquet, especially if composed of roses, looks as if the flowers had been picked up and tied together without any thought of, or attempt at ar- rangement. In these bunches, one color is usually chosen, with a bunch of Violets, Heli- otrope, Mignonette or other sweet smelling flowers, tied on one side as a contrast, and to add fragrance to the arrangement. For extra occasions, Bouquets are made of Orchid blos- soms, generally two or more sorts that har- monize in color, being used, aided by a liberal admixture of Fern fronds or sprays of the beautiful filmy South African Asparagus. Bouquets of Lily of the Valley, forced White Lilacs, Violets, etc., are often used, either alone or in combination with one or two other flowers, the colors generally massed, however, rather than mixed, fashion now leaning to- wards simplicity and naturalness of arrange- ment. Baskets and Plateaus of flowers are also arranged on the same principles, groups of different flowers or of the same flower in different shades being used in preference to an admixture of color. Bourbon Palm. See Livistona. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 55 BOU Boussinga'ultia. Madeira Vine. Named in honor of J. B. Bovssingault, a celebrated nat- uralist and traveler. Nat. Ord. Chenopodiacece. The only species, B. baselloides, is an ele- gant climbing tuberous-rooted plant from the Andes, a rapid grower and profuse bloomer. The flowers are nearly white and deliciously fragrant. It grows readily in any garden soil, and is readily increased by divi- sion or by seed. Introduced in 1836. Bouva'rdia. Named after Dr. Bouvard, curator of the Botanic Garden, Paris. Nat. Ord. Cinchonacece. Green-house evergreen shrubs, introduced from Mexico. They are amongst the most im- portant plants cultivated for winter flowers, owing to the yearly increasing variety of color, and their excellent adaptation for that purpose. They are also effective as bedding plants for the flower garden, beginning to bloom in August and continuing until frost. Many very superior varieties have originated in this country, notably the pure white free-growing and free-flowering B. Davisoni, and the rich crimson B. elegans, both sports from B. Hogarth, a brilliant scarlet variety; the double white B. Alfred Neuner, and double red B. Pres. Garfield, with many other excellent free-flowering sorts. Propagated by root cut- tings, or by cuttings of young wood in sand. Bowe'nia. In honor of W. G. Bowen, a gover- nor of Queensland. A remarkable genus of Cycadacem, consist- ing of but one species, which was discovered in Australia in 1819. The species is described in the Botanical Magazine as follows: "The most prominent character of Bowenia is the compound leaf, its general characters (all but shape), texture and venation ; the leaflets do not differ from those of Macrozamia, and are so very similar to those of the West Indian Zamia that it is difficult to distinguish them generically, except that in Bowenia the leaflet is decurrent by the petiole, and not articulated with rachis." The fern-like aspect presented by this plant is very remarkable and interest- ing, giving it a prominent position among green-house plants. Propagated by seeds or from suckers. Box. The common name of Buocus sempervirens, a plant at one time much used for edgings in ornamental gardening. It is a native of Europe and Asia, and is readily increased by cuttings. Boxberry. A name sometimes applied to the Wintergreen, Gaultlieria procumbens. Box Elder. See Negundo. Boxes for Seeds. Seeds, particularly flower seeds, when sown under glass, do much better when sown in shallow boxes than in flower-pots. A convenient size is the ordinary soap box, cut into four, making a depth of from one and a half to two inches. Or, what is even more convenient, the shallow boxes in which tin is imported. These are filled nearly full with finely-sifted soil, which is made as level and smooth as possible. On this smooth surface the seeds are sown, and then pressed down level into the soil, and , over the seeds is sifted dry moss, leaf mould, or cocoanut fiber (which has been run through a sieve as fine as mosquito wire), in quantity enough to fairly cover the seeds. This, from BRA its spongy nature, retains moisture, while its lightness offers but little resistance to the tender seed germ. The same style of box is used for "pricking off." See "propagation." Box Thorn. See Lycium barbarum. Box-wood. West Indian. Vitex umbrosa. Brabei'um. African Almond. From brabeion, a sceptre, in reference to the racemosed flowers. Nat. Ord. Proteacem. An ornamental green-house evergreen, with white, sweet-scented flowers, disposed in elegant, axillary, spiked racemes. Its seeds are called Wild Chestnuts and Wild Almonds, and are both roasted and eaten, and used as a substitute for coffee. Introduced from the Cape of Good Hope in 1751. Brachychi'ton. From brachys, short, and chiton, a tunic ; plant covered with imbricated hairs and scales. Nat. Ord. Sterculiacem. A genus of tropical and sub-tropical trees from Australia. B. acerifolium is called the Flame Tree about Illawarra, on account of its bright scarlet flowers, which make the tree a conspicuous object at a distance. B. Bidwillii, a native of the Wide Bay district, has bright crimson flowers, produced in axillary bunches. B. Delabechia, Syn. Delabechia rvpestris, is a very interesting species, popu- larly known as the Bottle Tree of Australia. Brachyco'me. From brachys, short, and home, hair. Nat. Ord. Composite. This beautiful annual is found on the banks of the Swan River, in Australia, and has there the very appropriate name of Swan River Daisy, as the flower closely resembles the Daisy. The plant grows from six to ten inches high, and has a closely compact branching habit, producing an abundance of flowers. It is well adapted for small beds or rockeries. Propagated by seeds. Intro- duced in 1840. Brachyse'ma. From brachys, short, and sema, standard ; the flowers having the standard petal short. Nat. Ord. LegwminoscB. A genus of handsome green-house shrubs, mostly climbing, from Australia. B. aphyllum is, as its name would imply, a leafless plant, the branches being singularly compressed and winged, so as to perform the functions of leaves. Small brown scales are found scat- tered over these branches, and from these the flowers grow. They are single, large, and of a bright blood-red color. B. lanceolatum is a very handsome species, and well adapted for the green-house, flowering, as it does, in winter or the early spring months. Its leaves are ovate or lanceolate in form, with a glossy upper surface, and covered with a silvery pubesence underneath. The flowers are in axillary clusters, large and rich scarlet. Bracteae or Bracts. The leaves placed imme- diately below a calyx, if they are at all altered from their usual form. Bracted Bindweed. See Calystegia. Bra'hea. Named after Tycho Brache, the cele- brated astronomer. Nat. Ord. Palmacem. A genus of medium-sized Palms, with fan- like leaves and spiny leaf-stalks. B.Jilamen- tosa, a native of Lower California, is largely cultivated in our green-houses for decorative purposes. It is of graceful habit and rapid growth, succeeding well with but little care in 56 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS BRA the green-house. This species is also known as Pritchardia filifera. It is now said that B. Jilamentosa is neither a Brahea nor a Pritch- ardia, and it is therefore proposed to call it Washingtonia, which see. Young plants are obtained from seed. B. edulis is now placed under Erythea, which see. Brahmin's Beads. An Indian name for the corrugated seeds of Elaiocarpus, which are used by the Brahmins, for necklaces, etc. Brai'nea. After J. C. Braine, of Hong Kong. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacew. B. insignis, the only known species, is a very handsome dwarf Tree Fern, a native of Hong Kong. The stem is from three to four feet high ; the fronds about three feet long, finely pinnate, giving the plant an elegant outline. Sir W. J. Hooker says : "We have here a very remarkable, and, if I may say so, a new form among the Ferns." Brake or Bracken. The popular name of Pteris aquilina, one of our common strong- growing Ferns. Bramble. See Rubus. Brassavo'la. Named after A. M. Brassavola, a Venetian botanist. Nat. Ord. Orchidacem. A small genus of epiphytal Orchids, belong- ing exclusively to tropical America. But few of the species have merits that entitle them to a place in general collections. The few are of easy culture, and produce flowers nearly six inches across, white, or creamy white, spotted with chocolate. The plants are all dwarf, with very short flower stems. They are usually grown on a block, in a rather high temperature, and are increased by division. Introduced in 1840. Bra'ssia. Named after Mr. Brass, a traveler and botanical collector. Nat. Ord. Orchidaceaz. This genus of Orchids is nearly allied to Oncidium, but not so popular because of their dull-colored flowers. Some of the species are highly valued by growers, as they pro- duce, with but little care and trouble, an abundance of flowers from June to August. Flowers mostly yellow, or greenish white spotted with brown. Introduced in 1844. Bra'ssica. Cabbage. From bresic, the Celtic name for Cabbage. Nat. Ord. Cruciferm. From this genus which is found throughout Europe, more particularly in Great Britain, there has been produced a greater variety of culinary vegetables than from any other. It comprehends Cabbage, Cauliflower, Turnip, Borecole, Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts and Kohl Rabi, each of which will be noticed under its popular name. Brassica'ceee. A sub-order or tribe of Cruci- fera. Bravo'a. Named after Bravo, a Mexican botanist. Nat. Ord. AmaryllidacecB. This genus consists of but a single species, B. geminiflora, a graceful little tuberous-rooted plant, native of Mexico. It has a small tuft of narrow leaves, from which arises a flower spike about a foot high, with a ter- minal cluster of small, crimson, Amaryllis-like flowers, in July. It will flower in the open border, but requires the protection of tbe green-house during winter. Propagated by division. BRO Brazilian Tea. Rex Paraguariensis and Sta- chytarpheta Jamaicensis. Brazil Nut. See Bertholletia. Brazil Wood. See Cmsalpinia. Bread Fruit. See Artocarpus. Bread Nut. See Brosimum. Bre'dia. A genus of Melastomaceaz, consisting of two species of shrubby plants from Japan and China, with unequal foliage, and terminal cymes of rose-colored flowers. B. hirsuta is a very showy plant with rosy-pink flowers, one- half inch across, and is increased readily by cuttings or from seeds. It is a native of Japan and was introduced in 1870. Bre'xia. From brexis, rain ; in reference to the protection from rain given by the large leaves of some of the species. Nat. Ord. Saxi- fragaceaz. A small genus of very handsome evergreen trees, natives of Madagascar. The flowers are of a leathery texture, greenish color, and produced in axillary umbels. They have alternate leathery leaves, furnished with spiny teeth. The plants are readily increased by cuttings, but are too large for ordinary cultiva- tion in the green-house. Briar-root. A corruption of the French " Bruyere " of which pipes are made, Erica arborea. Bridal- Wreath. A popular name for Spiraea prunifolia fl. pi. Brimstone (Vegetable). The inflammable spores of Lycopodium clavatum and L. Selago, some- times employed in the manufacture of fire- works. Bristle Fern. Trichomanes radicans. Bristly. Covered with stiff hairs. Bristly Foxtail Grass. See Setaria. Bri'za. Quaking Grass. From brizo, to nod ; on account of the quaking character of the spike. Nat. Ord. Graminaceaz. A handsome genus of grasses, some of which are cultivated in the garden as orna- mental plants. When dried they are highly esteemed for bouquets of dried flowers and grasses. The kinds usually grown are B. media, a perennial, and B. maxima, a larger species, an annual from the south of Europe. It is of easy culture, requiring only to be sown where it is wanted to be grown, in the open border, as early in spring as the ground can be prepared. Brizopy'rum. Spike Grass. Name compound- ed of briza, the quaking grass, and pyros, wheat. Nat. Ord. Graminaceoz. B. Spicatum, the best known species, is a salt marsh grass, with creeping rootstocks, stems from ten to eighteen inches high, in tufts. It has no agricultural value. Broccoli. Brassicaoleraceabotrytis. This vege- table somewhat resembles the Cauliflower, from which it is supposed to have originated, although there is nothing definitely known as to its origin. It is, however, more recent than most others of the genus. Miller says it was introduced into England from Italy in 1724, two varieties, white and purple, from which all the present garden varieties have been produced. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 57 BRO Brodiae'a. Named after J. J. Brodie, a Scotch cryptogamist. Nat. Ord. Isiliacece. Very curious little bulbous-rooted plants. B. Californica, with blue and white flowers, is easily cultivated in sandy loam with the con- venience of a green-house or cold frame. Increase is sparingly effected by offsets. Intro- duced in 1848. Brome Grass. See Bromus. Bromelia'cese. The Pine-apple family. A natural order, consisting of short-stemmed plants, with rigid, channeled, and often scurfy and spiny leaves and showy flowers. They are natives of the American continent and islands, whence they have been distributed to Africa and the East Indies. Ananassa sativa, the Pine-apple or Ananas, is one of the best known and most delicious of this or any other order. The fruit is composed of the pistils and bracts of several flowers united into a succulent mass, and crowned by a series of green leaves. The fibers of the plant are used in manufactures. The Pine-apple is grown under glass very successfully in Europe, but the fine condition in which they are received here from Jamaica and other places, makes their culture under glass here unneces- sary. Some of the Bromeliads grow attached to the branches of trees, and are called Air Plants, the best known here being Tillandsia usneoides, the Tree Beard of South America. Under the name of Florida Moss it is very largely used for decorative purposes. It is also used for stuffing cushions, etc., under the name of Spanish Moss, Black Moss, or Long Moss. There are twenty-eight known genera, and 176 species of this order. Brom- elia, Ananassa, Bilbergia, JEchmea, and Til- landsia, are examples of the order. The bracts of some of the species are exceedingly beautiful. Bro'mus. Brome Grass. So called from bro- mos, the Greek name for a wild oat. Nat. Ord. Graminacece. A genus of poor, coarse-growing grasses, of little use in agriculture, and of little beauty. This is the pest of the farmer, to which he applies a significant and a justly proper name, Cheat or Chess. However much it may cheat the farmer by crowding out Wheat and Rye, we cannot excuse him for cheating him- self with the absurd delusion, so widely preva- lent, that his "Wheat has turned into Chess, from some cause which cannot be explained. The species are annuals, and the seed will remain a long time in the ground, and germi- nate only when the conditions of growth are favorable. It is a native of Europe, though naturalized in many places in this country. B. Schroederi, Rescue Grass, or Australian Prairie Grass, is a valuable forage grass, remarkable for the rapidity of its growth and its productiveness. As soon as the first cut- ting is made a new growth shoots up, and this can be repeated sometimes four or five times during the season, providing it is cut before the seed matures. It thrives in almost any soil, but is better adapted to that which is wet or moist. Brongnia'rtia. Named in honor of Brongniart, a French botanist. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. A valuable and rather scarce plant, having flesh-colored flowers. It should be treated as BRO a green-house shrub, potting it in loam and sand. A native of New Spain, introduced in 1827. Brook Lime. American. Veronica Becabunga. Veronica Americana. Brook Mint. Mentha hirsuta. Brook Weed or Water Pimpernel. The popu- lar name of Samolus, a common plant in wet or marshy places. Broom. A name applied to Cytisus or Saroth- amnus scoparius, and also to Lygeum Spa/rtum, African Broom is a common name for Aspa- lathus. Butcher's Broom is Ruscus aculeatus, and is also a common name for Ruscus. Dyer's Broom is Genista tinctoria. New Zealand Broom is Carmichaelia australis. Rush Broom is a common name for Viminaria; it is also applied to Spartium junceum. Spanish Broom is Spartium juncewm. Broom Corn is Sorghum vulgare, the branched panicles of which are made into carpet brooms and clothes brushes. Broom Grass. Broom Rape. Orobanche. Andropogon scoparius. A popular name of the genus Broom Weed. Corchorus siliquosus. Bro'simum. Bread Nut. From brosimos, good to eat; the fruit being edible. Nat. Ord. Artocarpacem. A small genus of tall-growing trees, natives of the West Indies and South America, where they are highly esteemed for the food obtained from them, and for the valuable timber they furnish. B. Alicastrum is the Bread-nut Tree of Jamaica, the fruit of which is about an inch in diameter, and contains a single seed or nut, which is said to form an agreeable and nour- ishing article of food. "When boiled or roasted the nuts have the taste of hazel-nuts. Snake- wood or Leopard-wood is the heart-wood of one of the species, B. Aubletti, a native of Trinidad and British Guiana. B. galactoden- dron, which is the celebrated Cow Tree of South America, yields a milk of as good qual- ity as that from the cow. It forms large for- ests on the seacoast of Venezuela, growing 100 or more feet high, with a smooth trunk six to eight feet in diameter. Its milk, which is obtained by making incisions in the trunk, so closely resembles the milk of the cow, both in appearance and quality, that it is commonly used as an article of food by the inhabitants of the localities where the tree abounds. Unlike most other vegetable milks, it is per- fectly wholesome, and very nourishing, pos- sessing an agreeable taste, like that of sweet cream, and a balsamic odor ; its only unpleas- ant quality being a slight amount of stickiness. Like animal milk, it quickly forms a yellow, cheesy scum on the surface, and after a few days turns sour and putrefies. Broughto'nia. Named after Mr. Broughton, an English botanist. Nat. Ord. Orchidacew. A small genus of very handsome "West Indian Orchids, somewhat resembling the Lalia and Cattleya. They commonly grow on bushes in Cuba and Jamaica. The flowers are crimson and produced from the top of the pseudo-bulb during the summer, and are of long duration. They are of easy culture, growing best on blocks of wood, and should have plenty of light and sun. Propagated by division. Introduced in 1824. 58 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS BRO Broussone'tia. Named after Broussonet,& French naturalist. Nat. Ord. Urtieaceaz. A small genus of trees closely allied to the Mulberry. B. papyrifera, is the well-known Paper Mulberry, which is so called on account of its fibrous innerbark being used by the Chinese and Japanese for making paper. It grows wild in China and Japan, and also in many of the islands of the Pacific Ocean, where the natives manufacture a large part of their clothing from its bark. It forms a small tree, attaining about twenty or thirty feet in height, with a trunk seldom more than a foot in diameter, and generally branching at a short distance from the ground. The young branches are covered with short, soft hairs. The bark from the young shoots only, is used for making paper. In the South Sea Islands, a strong cloth is made from this bark, which is commonly used for clothing, either plain or printed, and dyed of various colors. Browa'llia. Named after J. Browallius, Bishop of Abo. Nat. Ord. Scrophulariacece. The Browallias are handsome, free-flower- ing, half hardy annuals. They succeed best started in the green-house and repotted before being planted out; they can, however, be successfully grown by being started in the hot-bed ; and often grow well when sown in the open border. The plants will be completely studded over with their beautiful blue or white flowers the whole summer. They are also excellent winter-flowering plants. B. Jamesoni, known also as Streptosolon, is a beautiful autumn flowering species, with large panicles of bright orange-colored, tubular flowers, with a lighter-colored throat. Re-in- troduced recently from New Grenada, after being lost to cultivation for over thirty years. Brown Bugle. Ajuga reptans. Bro'wnea. Named in honor of Dr. Patrick Browne, who wrote a history of Jamaica. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A small genus of low evergreen trees chiefly confined to Venezuela and New Grenada. The leaves are alternate, and from one to one and a half feet long, with from four to twelve pairs of entire leaflets. The flowers are rose- colored or crimson, and disposed in terminal or axillary heads. B. grandiceps has large and beautiful heads of flowers, of a pink color, ar- ranged in tiers, the outer ones expanding first, followed by the others until all are open, when the flower-head somewhat resembles that of a Rhododendron. A singular fact in connec- tion with this plant is, that the leaves droop during the day so as to almost hide the flowers from view, and protect them from the heat of the sun. At evening they rise up again, and remain erect during the night, and the flowers are thus exposed to the falling dew. The species are rarely seen under cul- tivation. Brugma'nsia. Named in honor of Prof. 8. J. Brugmavs, a botanical author. Nat. Ord. Solanacece. Peruvian shrubs, or low, succulent-stemmed trees, of which B. suaveolens (better known by the name of Datura arborea), B. Knightii, and B. sanguinea&re magnificent species. Being large plants, growing to the height of ten or twelve feet, they look best when planted in the ground in a conservatory ; but they will grow well in BRY large pots, or they may be planted in the open garden in the summer season, and taken up and preserved in a cellar, from which the frost is excluded, during winter, to be replaced in the open border the following spring. The flowers, popularly called Angels' Trumpets, are trumpet-shaped, a foot or more in length, and very fragrant. The plants grow freely in light, rich soil; and they are readily propa- gated by cuttings either of the shoots or roots. Brune'lla. Name changed from Prunella, which see. Brunfe'lsia. A name given to a genus of Scrophulariacece, in honor of Otto Brunfels, of Metz, who published the first good figures of plants in 1530. Elegant free-flowering evergreen plants, natives of South America and the West Indies. B. calycina has large purple flowers disposed in large trusses, which are produced in succession throughout the whole year. B. confertifiora, has light blue flowers, borne on terminal heads or cymes. All the species are fragrant, and may be propagated by cuttings. Brunsvi'gia. Named after the house of Bruns- wick. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidaceaz. Of this splendid genus of Cape bulbs, Sweet observes: "Some of the bulbs grow to a great size, and require large pots to have them flower in perfection ; or, if planted out in the open borders in spring, there will be a better chance of their flowering, taking the bulbs up again in autumn ; or the best way to succeed well with them is to have a pit built on purpose for them, so as to occasionally be covered with the lights to keep off too much wet, and to be covered close in severe weather, as they cannot bear the frost. The mould must be made for them of full one-third sand, more than one-third of turfy loam, and the rest of leaf mould, all well mixed together, but not chopped too small, as the roots run better through it for being rough and hollow. When in full growth and flower they require a frequent supply of water, but none while dor- mant." B. Josephines is very seldom induced to flower in this country, though it is no un- common occurrence in its native country, where it is said to produce very large heads of flowers. Several species flower more freely, though none so grand. Propagated by offsets. Brussels Sprouts. Brassica oleracea bullata geminifera, a variety of the Cabbage, which see. Bryo'nia. From bryo, to sprout; in allusion to the quick growth of the stems. Nat. Ord. Cucurbitacew. A genus of climbing, hardy herbaceous per- ennials, natives of Europe, the East Indies, and the Cape of Good Hope. B. alba and B. dioica&re generally considered by botanists to be one species, the only difference being in the color of the berries. The species is what is generally known as the Common Bry- ony, and is found in the hedgerows of Great Britain. It has a very large tuberous root, from which twining stems spring, which are annual and rough. The plants climb by tendrils, and, what is very unusual, the direc- tion of the spiral is now and then changed, so AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 59 BRY that, after proceeding in one course for some distance, the tendril suddenly changes to an opposite direction. The male and female flowers are in separate clusters; sometimes, though not always, they are on different plants. The plant has a fetid odor, and pos- sesses acrid, emetic and purgative properties, and from its elegant appearance in autumn, with its brilliant colored fruit, accidents not unfrequently occur to children and others, incautiously tasting the fruit, which is an active poison. Singularly enough, the young shoots may be cooked and eaten with impu- nity. When served up in the same manner as Asparagus, they are said to equal it in flavor. Many of the species are not poisonous, and are much valued for their medicinal prop- erties. Bryono'psis laciniosa, is a beautiful cucurbi- taceous annual climber with palmately, five- cleft leaves, yellow flowers and very pretty fruit about the size of a cherry, green marbled with white. It was introduced from Ceylon in 1710. It is now placed under Bryonia, by some authors. Bry'ony. See Bryonia. Bryophy'llum. So named from bryo, to grow, and phyllon, a leaf ; in reference to the circum- stances of the leaf, when laid upon damp earth, emitting roots, whence arise young plants. Nat. Ord. Crassulacem. B. catycinum, a species common in the green-house, is a native of India. When in flower it is quite handsome, producing loose panicles of drooping, greenish-purple flowers. It is very easily grown. Buchu, Bucha or Buka. A name applied in South Africa to the leaves of several species of Barosma. Buchne'ra. A syn. for Stephandra. Buckbean. The common name of a plant belonging to the Gentian family, Menyanthes trifoliata, common in wet places and of little interest. Buckeye. See uEsculus. Bucklandia. Named after Dr. Buckland, a pro- fessor of geology at Oxford. Nat. Ord. Ham- amelidacece. B. Populnea, the only species in cul- tivation, is one of the most beautiful trees of the forests of the Sikkim Himalayas at an elevation of 4,000 to 6,000 feet. It attains a height of one hundred feet, with a cylindrical trunk, and oblong crown of evergreen foliage. The leaves are orbicular-cordate and may be likened to those of a Dioscorea, being when young of a rosy purple color with golden-green veins. Introduced in 1875. Buckthorn. See Rhamnus. Buck-wheat. Fagopyrum esculentum. The com- mon Buckwheat is a native of Central Asia, and has long been under cultivation. It is more extensively grown as an article of food in this country than in any other, Buckwheat cakes being purely an American institution. It thrives on a poor soil that would not sustain many other plants, and give a fair yield. Of the improvement in the quality of this grain from its native wild state we have no record. There are several varieties grown, but the quality depends largely upon soil and climate. The Japanese Buckwheat lately introduced has BUG proved to be a great improvement on the ordinary sorts, the kernels being at least twice the size of any other variety, peculiar in shape, and of a rich dark shade of brown in color. Flour made from it is equal in quality, if not superior to any other sort. It is enormously productive, yielding two or three times as much as any other sort, both in grain and straw. Buckwheat Tree. Cliftonia (Mylocaryum) ligus- trina. Budding. This is the practice in use of placing a bud of one variety of plant on another. The •shoot or stock to be budded upon must always be in a thrifty, growing state, so that the bark can be raised freely from the wood, and the bud to be inserted must be in such a state that it shows prominently at the axil of the leaf. Select a smooth portion of the stem of the shoot to be budded upon, strip it of leaves (or thorns, if any) sufficient to allow room for the operation ; then make a cut through the bark to the wood in length sufficient to admit the bud, with a cross cut at the top. Above this cross cut make a slight sloping cut in the bark, about a quarter of an inch in length, so as to admit the easy insertion of the bud. This custom is not general, but it will be found to be easier, and, we think, safer. Next take the shoot from which the bud to be inserted is to be cut, and selecting such as have the properly developed condition of bud, cut it from the shoot about half an inch on each side of the bud, just deep enough to get about as much thickness of the wood as the bark. If the portion of the shoot from which the bud is taken is well ripened, it is best to separate the wood from the bark ; but if not, it will do quite as well not to remove it, but insert the bud in the stock just as it is cut. The edges of the cut in the stock are lifted and slightly pressed outward by the point of the budding-knife, the bud inserted, and pushed down by the ivory handle. To keep the bud in place it is wrapped neatly round with any soft tying material, the fiber known as Raphia being the best. In two or three weeks after the bud has been put in it will be safe to remove the tying. All shoots starting below the bud must be rubbed off as soon as they start, and when the bud begins to grow, the portion of the stock above the graft must be cut off, so that the inserted bud may get the full benefit of growth. Buddle'ia. Named after A. Buddie, an English botanist. Nat. Ord. Scrophulariacem. An extensive genus of herbaceous plants, shrubs, and low-growing trees. Leaves oppo- site and thickly covered with hairs. The flowers of some of the species are very beauti- ful and fragrant; they are mostly small, bright orange, purplish or lilac, and arranged in small globular heads, on long peduncles. They are natives of South America, Mexico, Africa, and tropical Asia. Some of the species are half-hardy, and would be likely to succeed well, south of Washington. Buffalo Berry. Missouri. Shepherdia argentea. Buffalo Grass, or Buffalo Clover. See Tri- folium. Buffalo Nut. Pyrularia oleifera. Bugle. See Ajuga reptans. HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS BUG Bugle Weed. The popular name of Lycopus Virginicus. Bugloss. Lycopsis arvensis. Bugloss. Cowslip. Pulmonaria officinalis. Bugloss. Viper's. Echium vulgar e. Bulb. An underground bud, consisting of numerous fleshy scales placed one over the other, a modified form of the leaf bud. A bulb is usually placed partly or entirely under- ground. There are several kinds of bulbs, the following being the most common : A Naked Bulb is a bulb whose scales are loose and almost separate, as in the Crown Im- perial. A Tunicated Bulb is one whose fleshy scales overlap each other, forming concentric layers, the outer ones being thin or mem- braneous, such as Hyacinths, Onions, Tulips, etc. A Solid Bulb is properly a Corm, which see. Bulbiferous. Bearing or producing bulbs. Bulbil. An axillary bulb with fleshy scales, falling off its pai*ent spontaneously, and prop- agating it. Applied more especially to those buds on the stem, which occasionally assume the character of bulbs, as in Lilium tigrinum. Bulbi'ne. From bolbos, a bulb. Nat. Ord. Liliacea. Half-hardy plants, available for flower- gardening purposes. They are showy, frag- rant, do not require any particular care in their management, and are propagated rapidly by cuttings. Natives of the Cape of Good Hope ; introduced in 1820. Bulboco'dium. From bolbos, a bulb, and kodion, wool ; referring to the woolly covering of the bulbs. Nat. Ord. Melanthaceai. Very handsome hardy bulbs, bearing purple flowers, and well deserving of attention. They should be carefully watered in dry weather. B. vernum, one of our earliest spring flowers, was introduced from Spain in 1629. The other species, B. versicolor, flowering towards the autumn, was introduced from the Crimea in 1820. Bulbophy'llum. Nat. Ord. Orchidaceae. A genus of Orchids containing a number of species, few of which are worth cultivating except as curiosities. Bullace. Prunus insititia. Bullace. Jamaica. Melicocca bijuga. Bullate. Blistered, or puckered. Bull-rush, or Club-rush. The popular name of the genus Scirpus ; also Typha latifolia. Bume'lia. The Greeks gave this name to the common Ash. Nat. Ord. SapotacecB. A genus of spiny shrubs, with hard wood, remarkable for the beauty of their foliage. Natives of the "West Indies and the Southern United States. Our native species are locally known as Gum Elastic, Shittim-wood, Iron- wood, Saffron Plum, etc. Bunch-berry. A common name of Cornus Cana- densis, Dwarf Cornel or Dog-wood. Bu'nium. A genus of tuberous-rooted umbel- liferous plants, chiefly inhabitants of southern Europe and western Asia ; interesting on ac- count of their producing edible tubers. Those of B. flexuosum, a native of Britain, are called Ar-nuts, Pig-nuts, Kipper-nuts, etc. B.ferulce- folium, produces tubers as large as hazel nuts, BUR which are eaten by the Greeks under the name Topana. Bu'phane. A misprint (subsequently corrected by Herbert), for Buphone, from bows, an ox, and phone, destruction, in allusion to the poisonous properties of the plant, but Buphane is the name adopted by the authors of the " Genera Plantarum," and by Baker in his " Amaryllidese." Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacem. A small genus of South Africa bulbs, for- merly included in the genus Brunsvigia. They are remarkable in having precocious flower- scapes, with from 100 to 200 flowers in a single head. B. toxicaria is called the Poison Bulb, and is said to be fatal to cattle. B. disticha has immense bulbs, the flowers of the former are flesh-colored, and quite small ; those of the latter orange-red. All this class are quite difficult to manage. They succeed best grown in a pit, and protected against cold and wet. Buphtha'lmum. Ox-eye. From bous, an ox, and ophthalmos, an eye ; in allusion to the re- semblance the disk of the flowers bears to an ox's eye. Nat. Ord. Composite. A genus including many hardy annuals, perennials, and green-house evergreen shrubs. Two of the more conspicuous species are hardy perennials, natives of Central Europe. They grow from a foot to a foot and a half high ; leaves narrow, flowers large, bright yellow. They have too weedy an appearance for a collection of choice plants. Burbi'dgea. Named after F. W. Burbidge, the discoverer of the genus in Borneo. Nat. Ord. Scitaminece. B. nitida, the only described species, is a very large, brilliant-flowered, stove-house herbaceous perennial, allied to Hedychium. Its flowers are bright orange scarlet, borne in many-flowered terminal panicles four to six inches long. It was introduced from N. W. Borneo in 1879, and is increased by division. Burdock. The well-known popular name for Lappa officinalis, of which there are two varieties, minor and major; the common Bur- dock being the latter. Bur Grass. Cenchrus echinatus. Burlingto'nia. Named after the Countess of Burlington. Nat. Ord. Orchidaceai. A genus of very handsome epiphytal Orchids, inhabiting Brazil. They are remarkable for their long, pendulous racemes of snow-white flowers, with the lip touched or lined with yellow. A few of the species have flowers in which yellow or lilac colors predominate. The plants of this genus are all of dwarf habit, with beautiful evergreen foliage. They will grow either on cork or in baskets, and are propagated by division. Introduced in 1824. Burma'nnia'ceae. A natural order differing principally from Orchidacece in their having perfectly regular flowers. They are all her- baceous plants bearing blue or white flowers, and inhabit marshy or shady places. With the exception of Burmannia biflora, which is found in Virginia, they are all tropical species. Bur Marigold. One of the common names of the genus Bidens. Burnet. See Poterium Sanguisorba. Saxifrage. Pinpinella Saxifraga. 6o BUCKWHEAT (JAPANESE) BKOMUS INEK1II.S (AWNLEKS BROME GRASS). CALANDRINIA. W£>' &*£ CALLIOPSIS (DWARF). CALAMPELIS. CALCEOLARIA. CALENDULA CACTI (GROUP OF). CALOCHORTU.-> 6' AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 61 BUR Burning Bush. Dictamnus Fraxinella. American. Euonymus atropurpureus. Burtonia. Named after D. Burton, a col- lector for the Kew Gardens. Nat. Ord. Legu- minosce. A small genus of dwarf, heath-like shrubs, natives of Australia. The flowers are pea- shaped, axillary, and often thickly gathered on the ends of the branches ; the corolla rich purple, the keel of a deeper color, and the standard generally having a yellow blotch at its base. There are only a few species under cultivation, but they are all conspic- uous objects in the green-house. They come into flower in April, and are propagated from cuttings of the half-ripened wood. Intro- duced in 1803. Bur Reed. See Sparganium. Bur-weed. The common name for Xanthivm. Bush Clover. The popular name of the genus Lespedeza. Bush Honeysuckle. A popular name for the genus Diervilla. Butcher's Broom. See Ruscus. Butoma'ceae. An order of aquatic plants now generally included under AlismaceoB. Bu'tomus. Flowering Rush. From bous, an ox, and temno, to cut; in reference to its acrid juice causing the mouth to bleed. Nat. Ord. Alismacece. B. umbellatus is a beautiful aquatic plant, common in the marshes of Great Britain. Gerarde (1629), in speaking of this plant says : " The Water Gladiole, or Grassie Rush, is of all others the fairest and most pleasant to be- hold, and serveth very well for the decking and trimming up of houses, because of the beautie and braverie thereof." A variety with striped leaves, lately introduced, is now highly recommended for collections of aquatic plants. Butter-and-Eggs. A local name for Linaria vulgaris. CAB Butter-Bur. Petasites vulgaris. Buttercup. See Ranunculus. Butterfly Flower. The genus Schizanthus. Butterfly Orchid. Oncidium Papilio. E. Indian. Phalwnopsis amabilis, and others. Butterfly Orchis. Habernaria chlorantha, and H. bifolia. Butterfly Pea. A name sometimes given to Clitoria. Butterfly Weed. A popular name for Asclepias tuberosa. Butternut See Juglans. Butter Tree. See Bassia. Butterwort. See Pinguicula. Button Bush. Cephalanthus occidentalis. Button Flower. The genus Gomphia. Button Snake-root. Liatris pycnostachya. Button Weed. Centaurea nigra. Button "Wood. See Platanus. Bu'xus. A small but important genus of Spurge- worts (Euphorbiacece), one species of which is the well known common evergreen Box of our gardens, employed both as an ornamental shrub and as an edging plant for walks, etc. It is a native of both Europe and Asia, but found principally in Spain, Italy, the coasts of the Black Sea, Persia, Northern India and Japan. It varies considerably in height, some varieties growing twenty-five to thirty feet, with a trunk of eight to ten inches in diameter, while others never exceed three to four feet, and have very small stems. It is most valued for its wood, the chief character- istics of which are, excessive hardness, great weight, evenness and closeness of grain, light color, and being susceptible of a fine polish. These are the qualities that render it so valuable to the wood engraver, the turner, mathematical and musical instrument makers, and others. 0. Caapeba, Pareira Brava Root, or Velvet- Leaf. See Cissampelos. Cabbage. Brassica oleracea. For the following history of the Cabbage we are indebted to the Treasury of Botany : " The Cabbage, in its wild state, is a native of various parts of Europe, as well as of several places near the sea in England. It is a bien- nial, with fleshy-lobed leaves, undulated at the margin, and covered with bloom ; al- together, so different in form and appearance from the Cabbage of our garden that few would believe it could possibly have been the parent of so varied a progeny as are com- prised in the Savoy, Brussels Sprouts, Cauli- flower, Broccoli, and their varieties. A more wonderful instance of a species producing so many distinct forms of vegetation for the use of man is scarcely to be met with throughout the range of the vegetable kingdom. The common, or cultivated Cabbage, B. oleracea capitata, is well known, and from a very early period has been a favorite culinary vegetable, in almost daily use throughout the civilized world. The ancients considered it light of digestion when properly dressed, and very wholesome if moderately eaten. For the in- troduction of our garden variety of Cabbage we are indebted to the Romans, who are also believed to have disseminated it in other countries. It is said to have been scarcely known in Scotland until the time of the Com- monwealth, when it was carried there from England by some of Cromwell's soldiers ; but it now holds a prominent place in every gar- den throughout the United Kingdom." From its wild state the Cabbage has been brought to its present state of perfection very gradually, 62 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS CAB by careful selection under cultivation. The various stages of these improvements have not been sufficiently noted to enable us to award the credit where it properly belongs. All the Cabbage tribe requires the soil to be rich, deep and well drained — naturally or arti- ficially— and abundantly manured. For the early kinds plant thirty inches between rows and sixteen inches between the plants, and for late kinds plant three feet by two feet. In the improvements made within the last fifty years the market gardeners around New York have taken a conspicuous part, and to them we are indebted for our best market varieties. The three most popular kinds for market purposes are " Early Wakefield," "Early Summer" and "Succession." The Bed Cabbage, B. oleracea rubra, is an entirely distinct variety, but its origin and early development are unknown. It has been known in Holland for several hundred years, and the Dutch have made the growing of the seed an extensive business. The Savoy Cabbage, B. oleracea bullata, differs but little from the other kinds of Cabbage. It is distinguished by its leaves being wrinkled in such a manner as to have a netted appearance. The Savoys are remarkable for their tender, crisp leaves and excellent flavor. It would seem not to be generally known that the Savoys are the most delicious of all the Cabbages. The Brussels Sprouts, or Bud-bearing Cabbage, B. oleracea bullata geminifera, originated in Bel- gium, and has from a very early date been ex- tensively grown around Brussels, where it seems to thrive better than in most other countries. It forms a head somewhat like the Savoy, of which it is considered a sub- variety, differing in the remarkable manner in which it produces at the axils of the leaves, along the whole length of the stem, a num- ber of small sprouts resembling miniature Cabbages of one or two inches in diameter, of an excellent flavor. Cabbage. Arkansas. Streptanthus obtusifolius. Skunk, or Meadow. Symplocarpus foetidus. Cabbage Maggot. See Insects. Cabbage Palm. See Areca and Oreodoxa olera- cea. Caca'lia. Tassel Flower. From kakos, perni- cious, and lian, exceedingly; supposed to be hurtful to the soil. Nat. Ord. Composite. C. coccinea, the only species worthy of cul- tivation in the flower garden, is a half-hardy annual, that can be grown readily from seed sown where wanted to grow. Its bright scar- let blossoms are borne in profusion from July to October. Introduced from New Holland in 1792. Caca'o or Coco'a. The seeds of Theobroma Cacao, which form the chief ingredient in pure chocolate. Caccinia. Named fri honor of G. Caccini, an Italian Savant. Nat. Ord. Boraginacem. A small genus of hardy perennial herbs, natives of the Orient. C. glauca, the only species yet in cultivation, has racemose cymes of violet-blue flowers changing to red. It grows from one to three feet high, and may be increased by seeds or division. Intro- duced from Afghanistan in 1880. Cacta'ceae. A natural order consisting of suc- culent shrubs, with remarkable spines clus- CAC tered on the stems, which are angular, round, two-edged, or leafy, and have their woody matter often arranged in a wedge-like manner. The calyx consists of numerous sepals, the petals are numerous ; the stamens are numerous, with long filaments. The fruit is succulent, and the seeds without albumen. They are natives of various parts of America, but have been introduced into many parts of the world. The fruits of the Opuntias are called Indian Figs, and are edible, having a sub-acid and refreshing juice. The stems of some of the species are eaten by cattle. These stems vary greatly in form, some being spherical, others jointed, while still others are triangular, and some send polygonal shafts sixty feet or more into the air. These stems are very succulent or fleshy, and the plants are thus adapted to dry climates, or, rather, such as have a "dry sea- son." Among the tall-growing kinds may be mentioned Cereus giganteus, growing sixty or more feet high, and from one to two feet in diameter ; C. Peruvianus, with stems thirty to forty feet high ; C. Thurberi, with stems ten to fifteen feet high, and C. Schottii, with stems eight to ten feet high. The spines on some Cacti are very formidable, and on others very numerous. The spines and bristles on a specimen of Echinocactus platyceras were reck- oned at 51,000, and those of a Pilocereus senilis at 72,000. Opuntia vulgaris, our common Prickly Pear, bears an edible fruit. O. cochi- nillifera (Nopalea), the Nopal plant, is very largely grown for rearing the Cochineal insect (Coccus Cacti). The number of known genera is eighteen, and there are over eight hundred species. Cereus, Epiphyllum, Phyllo- cactus, Mammillaria, Melocactus, Pereskia, etc., are examples of this order. Ca'ctus. A name applied by Theophrastus to semi-spiny plants. Nat. Ord. Cactaceaz. The very remarkable succulent plants, arranged by Linnasus under the name of Cac- tus, have been distributed by modern bot- anists over numerous genera, which they are still continually changing and re-arranging. At first a few plants were left in the genus Cac- tus, but now that genus is annihilated, and seven or eight new genera substituted for it ; still, as all the plants that once composed it, and the new ones of the same nature that col- lectors are continually sending home, are known by the general name of Cacti, it has been thought advisable to give here a slight sketch of the whole family. In the time of Linnaeus very few Cacti were known, and even in the year 1807, Persoon enumerated only thirty-two; but now about 500 living species are to be found in a single collection, and numbers of new species are being sent home by collectors every year. These new species are chiefly found in the tropical regions of America, but they extend over 75° of latitude, some being found within the boundary of the United States and some near the town of Conception, in Chili. By far the greater number, however, grow in the dry, burning plains of Mexico and Brazil, where they are subjected to the alternate seasons of extreme moisture and extreme drought. In these arid plains, where all nature seems parched up for six months in the year, the Cacti have been mercifully provided to serve as AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 63 CAC reservoirs of moisture, and not only the na- tives, by wounding the fleshy stems with their long forest knives, supply themselves with a cool and refreshing juice, but even the cattle contrive to break through the skin with their hoofs, and then to suck the liquid they contain, instinct teaching them to avoid wounding themselves with the spines. Some of the species serve the Indians with food. The Cacti are arranged by nature into several distinct groups, the first of which consists of the tree Cacti, or those kinds of Cereus which have long, slender stems, and which usually grow on the summits of the mountains of Mexico and Brazil, forming a singular kind of crest. These are generally thirty or forty feet high, and sometimes are branched like candelabra, and sometimes consists of only one naked stem, not thicker than a man's arm, though of such enormous height. Others, again, not only grow to a height of fifty or sixty feet, but have a diameter of two or three feet. The Mammillarias and Echinocacti, which form another group, grow in the val- leys of the temperate regions, generally in loamy soils and low grass ; and the Opuntias and Pereskias, which form two others, are also principally found in the temperate latitudes. The Melocacti, or Melon Cacti, and the Rhip- salis, which has narrow-jointed stems, and two other groups, are found in the hottest parts of the tropics. With regard to the cul- ture of Cacti, it is found that, generally speak- ing, they ought to have a season of complete rest, followed by one of excitement. They ought to be watered sparingly while dormant, and freely when in bloom, and grown in a light, sandy soil. Several of the best known genera of Cactus, such as Epiphyllum, Cereus and Phyllocactus, will be found under their respective heads. Cactus. Cochineal. Opuntia cochinillifera and O. Tuna. Old Man. Pilocereus senilis. Rat's Tail. Cereus flagelliformis. Turk's Cap. The genus Melocactus. Cactus Dahlia. Dahlia Juarezii. Caducous. Falling off soon ; deciduous. Caesalpi'nia. In memory of Andreas Cmsalpinus, chief physician to Pope Clement VIII. Nat. Ord. Leguminoste. A genus of tropical trees of considerable importance in an economic point of view, but without special beauty. C. coriaria, a West Indian and South American species, yields large quantities of tannin, which is extracted from its seed pods. C. Braziliensis, furnishes the Brazil-wood, exceedingly valuable for dyeing purposes, and an important article of commerce. Caesius. A pale blue ; a blue metallic luster seen on some leaves, as those of Selaginella ccesia. Caffre Bread. A South African name applied to various species of Encephalartos, and Zamia. Caeruleus. Blue ; the clear blue of the sky. Caespitose. Growing in little tufts or patches. Caja'nus. Pigeon Pea. From catjang, its Mala- bar name. Nat. Ord. LeguminoscB. A genus of valuable perennial shrubs, culti- vated in the tropics for their seeds, which constitute an important article of food. C. CAL indicus, is a native of the East Indies, but is now naturalized and cultivated in the West Indies, and most other tropical countries. Of this species there are two varieties, one is called the Congo Pea, in Jamaica, and fur- nishes the negroes with their principal food. The variety fiavus is called in the West Indies No-eye Pea, and is considered in its green state but little inferior to our garden Peas, and, when dried and split, quite as good. Pea- meal of very good quality is prepared from both varieties. Horses and cattle are very fond of the young branches and leaves, either in a fresh or dried state. Although perennial shrubs, they are usually treated as annuals ; 1 after the seeds are gathered the plants are used for fuel. Cajeput-tree. See Oreodaphne. Calabar Bean, or Chopnut. Physostigma ven- enosum. Calabash. Sweet. The fruit of Passiflora mali- formis. Calabash-Tree. Various species of Crescentia. Cala'dium. A word of uncertain derivation, probably from kaladion, a cup. Nat. Ord. AroidecB. Of this genus of tuberous-rooted plants there are many rare and beautiful species and varieties that rank high as ornamental foliage plants, useful only as green-house or rather hot- house plants, as they will not succeed well with a temperature below 60°. They must be kept dormant from October to April, and should never be chilled when started to grow. Those found in the swamps of the River Amazon, in the province of Para, are pre-eminent for graceful growth, and for elegant and brilliant markings. All the species are easily propagated by division of the tuber, just as the growth begins. Introduced in 1828. The plant commonly known as Caladiwm esculen- tum does not belong to this genus, and will be described under Colocasia. Calamagro'stis. A genus of coarse-growing grasses, a description of which will be found under Ammophila, a division of the genus. Calamint. See Calamintha. Calami'ntha. Calamint. From kalos, beautiful, and mintha, mint. Nat. Ord. Labiatm. A genus of coarse-growing, hardy herba- ceous perennials, with purplish or whitish flowers. They are indigenous or extensively naturalized in many parts of this country. They are mostly aromatic herbs, and former- ly had important medicinal properties attrib- uted to them. C. nepeta, Basil Thyme, is one of the best known species. None of them has sufficient merit to warrant its introduction into the garden, either for ornament or use. Cala'mpelis. (Eccremocarpus.) From kalos, beautiful, and ampelis, a vine. Nat. Ord. Bignoniacew. The only species, C. scabra, is a well-known, beautiful, half-hardy climbing plant. Trained to a trellis or to a south wall in the open air, it forms a very ornamental object through the summer months, its bright orange-colored flowers being conspicuous among the pleasing delicate green of the foliage. It grows best in rich loam, and should be protected in a cold pit through the Winter. Cuttings root 64 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS CAL readily in a gentle heat. Chili in 1824. Introduced from Ca'lamus (a Reed). This word has been restricted to hollow, inarticulate stems, like those of Rushes. Ca'lamus. From kalamos, a reed, an old Greek name. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. An elegant genus of Palms very useful in their young state for house decoration. C. Rotang, C. rudentum, C. viminalis, and probably several other species furnish the canes or rattans so commonly employed for the bottoms of chairs, couches and similar purposes. In the countries where these palms abound, the inhabitants make use of them for a great variety of purposes, baskets of all kinds, mats, hats and other useful articles being commonly made of them. Their most important use how- ever, is for the manufacture of the ropes and cables usually employed by junks and other coasting vessels. C. Scipionum, the stems of which are much thicker than the preceeding, furnishes the well known Malacca canes so much prized for walking-sticks. There are over two hundred species in this genus, all natives of tropical and sub-tropical regions, more especially Eastern Asia. Calamus aromaticus. An old name for the Sweet Flag, Acorus calamus. Calandri'nia. Named after Calandrini, a Ger- man botanist. Nat. Ord. Portulacacece. Very beautiful dwarf-growing plants, usu- ally treated as tender annuals, though of per- ennial duration if protected in winter. The seeds may be sown in gentle heat about the middle of March, and when planted in the open air in May, become a blaze of beauty whenever the sun shines upon them. The soil should be light and rather dry. The best of the species are C. speciosa, grandiflora, dis- color, and umbellata. Introduced from South America. Cala'nthe. From kalos, beautiful, and anthos, a flower; literally, a pretty blossom. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A large genus of stemless terrestrial Orchids, having broad, many-ribbed leaves, and long spikes of flowers, which are of various colors, white, lilac, purple, and cop- per-colored. They require a very light house for the perfect development of flowers and to give them good color. The same general treat- ment as given the Bletia, withjihe exception of more careful watering, is all they require. Most species are natives of tropical Asia, and are propagated by division of the roots. In- troduced about 1820. Cala'thea. Zebra Plant. From kalathus, a basket; in reference to the leaves being worked into baskets in South America. Nat. Ord. Scita- minem. A genus of interesting plants, with beauti- fully marked foliage, distinguished from Maranta by mere botanical characters. Many of the most beautiful species of the latter have been transferred to this genus. C. Veitchii, zebrina, Vanden Heckii, regalis, Makoy- ana, Massingeana, and many others are among the most beautiful and showy of warm green-house or stove plants. They are mostly natives of Brazil, and require a high tempera- ture and humid atmosphere for perfect devel- opment. They are increased by root division. CAL Calcariform. Shaped like a spear. Calceola'ria. Slipperwort. From calceolus, a slipper, in reference to the shape of the flower. Nat. Ord. Scrophulariaceai. The numerous species of this well-known genus, found abundantly in the regions of Chili and Peru, are divided into two classes, herbaceous and shrubby. The former are found near the line of the sea, the latter are inhabitants of the higher parts of the Cor- dilleras ; hence it is, that among the many in- troduced species, some are more or less hardy, growing freely in a shady border, and others require the humid atmosphere of a green-house. Many of the original species have been modified by hybridizing, and are rarely found in collections. The hybrids are very numerous, and many are highly prized. The European florists, having made a specialty of this genus, have brought out varieties remarkable for size, color and mark- ings. Propagation of the herbaceous varieties is readily effected by seeds, and the shrubby varieties by cuttings or from seeds. Calceolate. Having the form of a slipper, or round-toed shoe. Cale'ndula. Pot Marigold. From calendar, the first days of the months ; in reference to its flowers being produced almost every month. Nat. Ord. Composite. There are several handsome species, some of which are shrubby and some annuals. The common Marigold, C. officinalis and its double varieties, and C. stellata, are the handsomest of the annual species. The Cape Marigolds, C. pluvialis and C. hybrida, have been removed to a new genus, which is called Dimorphotheca. Both these species are hardy annual plants, with very elegant flowers, which close at the withdrawal of the sun ; and as they do not open at all when it is dark, or heavy clouds foretell the approach of rain, Linnaeus called the commonest species C. pluvialis, or the Rainy Marigold. The florets of the ray of the flowers of this plant are of a pure white inside, and of a dark purple on the outside; while those of C. hybrida are of a dingy orange out- side. A tincture is made from the flowers of the several varieties, that is considered highly efficacious for bruises or sprains, affording relief more quickly than arnica. Calico Bush. See Kalmia latifolia. California Puschia. See Zauschneria. California Laurel. See Oreodaphne. California Nutmeg. See Torreya Californica. California Poppy. See Eschscholtzia. Calisa'ya Bark, or Yellow Cinchona Bark Tree. See Cinchona Calisaya. Calla. Water Arum. From kallos, beauty. Nat. Ord. Aroidem. C. palustris, the only species, is an herba- ceous marsh plant, cf but little interest, com- mon in swamps throughout the Northern States. The roots yield an edible starch, and were formerly procured for that article ; but they are no longer used for that purpose, and the plant is without special merit. Richardia JEthopica, so well known as the " Calla Lily," is frequently erroneously called Calla JEtho- pica. Calla. Black. See Arum sancta. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 65 CAL Callica'rpa. From kalos, beautiful, and carpos, fruit ; referring to the beautiful berries. Nat. Ord. Verbenacem. A considerable genus of low-growing shrubs, mostly tender evergreens. C. Americana, a species common from Virginia southward, is a hardy deciduous shrub, of great beauty, and one of the most desirable for the lawn or shrubbery border. In a good soil it grows about four feet high, very branching from near the root, giving the plant a most grace- ful outline. The flowers are small, incon- spicuous, in numerous axillary cymes or clusters. The beauty of the plant consists in its clusters of violet-colored berries, which are exceedingly showy from September until December. It as freely propagated by seed or from cuttings. C. Japonica is also hardy, with a little protection. Calli'chroa. This genus of Californian Compo- site is now usually included under Layia, which see. Callio'psis. Derived from kallistos, beautiful, and opsis, the eye ; in allusion to the beauti- ful bright eye of the flower. Nat. Ord. Com- posite. This is a genus of showy annuals, separated from Coreopsis. They are of a hardy char- acter, requiring only to be sown in rich earth about the end of March, and afterward thinned out. Those taken up for the purpose may be transplanted, and will afford a later bloom. They usually attain a height of about three feet, and, consequently, should be sown some distance from the margin of the bed. If a very early bloom be desired, a few plants may be raised on heat and transplanted in May. All are American plants, found from Arkansas to Texas. Callipro'ra. Pretty Face. From hallos, beauty, and prora, a front ; referring to the front view of the flowers. • Nat. Ord. Liliacece. C. lutea, the only species, is a beautiful little yellow-flowering California bulb, the flowers of which are produced in August, in umbels, drooping, on short scapes. Not hardy in this climate. Propagated by offsets. Syns. Bro- diea ixioides, and MiUa ixioides. Callirho'e. Named for Callirhoe, a daughter of the river-god Archelous. Nat. Ord. Malvacee. This genus of American plants comprises both annuals and perennials. The former are a showy, free-blooming class, somewhat re- sembling the Scarlet Linum ; the latter pro- duce flowers much larger and very beautiful, but are rarely met. The annual varieties grow readily from seed ; the perennials from seed or by division of the root. Syn. Nuttallia. Callista'chys. From kalos, beautiful, and stachys, a flower-spike. .Nat. Ord. Legumin- osce. Green-house plants from New Holland, pro- ducing beautiful yellow flowers. They grow readily and without trouble under ordinary treatment. Cuttings strike freely in sand, covered with a glass. Introduced in 1815. Syn. Oxylobium. Calliste'mon. A name indicative of the beauty of the stamens, which are of a beautiful scarlet color. Nat. Ord. Myrtacem. All the species of this genus are very orna- mental, and neat in habit. Natives of Aus- tralia, and well adapted for a cool green-house CAL or conservatory. Metrosideros speciosa is a synonym for C. speciosus. Calliste'phus. China Aster. From kallistos, most beautiful, and stephos, a crown. Nat. Ord. Composite. C. Chinensis is the well-known China Aster, the varieties of which are so universally grown. The seed should be sown in March on a gentle heat for the earliest bloom, and others may be sown in the open ground as soon as it is fit to work, to afford a succession of flowers. The first, after being gradually inured to the open air, may be removed to their destined places as soon as danger from frost is past. The soil for them cannot be too rich ; on this, and selecting an open situation, rests all the art of obtaining fine flowers. There are so many varieties now in cultivation that it is impracticable to particu- larize them in a work like this, suffice it to say, they are all beautiful, and deserving of cultivation. The original species was intro- duced from China in 1731. Syn. Callis- temma. Callitha'uma. Derivation not explained. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. A small genus of Peruvian bulbs, with yellow flowers, produced on a slender scape before the leaves start, like the Guernsey Liiy. They may be grown successfully, with the protection of a frame during winter. Pro- pagated by offsets. Introduced in 1843. Calli'tris. From kalos, beautiful ; referring to the appearance of the whole plant. Nat. Ord. Conifere. A small genus of evergreen, cypress-like trees, allied to Thuja. They are natives of New Holland, Barbary, and the Cape of Good Hope. C. quadrivalvis is a large tree with straggling branches. It is a native of Bar- bary, but can be successfully grown from the Carolinas southward. The resin of this tree is used in varnish-making under the name of Gum Sandarach. It yields a hard, durable, and fragrant timber, of a mahogany color ; for which reason it is largely used in the con- struction of mosques and similar buildings in the north of Africa. Syn. Frenela. Calli'xine. A genus of Liliacece. Now included with Luzuriaga, which see. Callu'na. Heather. From kalluno, to adorn ; in reference both to the beauty of the Heather, and to its use as a scrubbing-brush or broom. Nat, Ord. Ericaceaz. C. vulgaris, the only species, is the well- known " Heather " of Scotland, popularly known as Ling or Common Heath ; a low- growing, much-branched little shrub, with very pretty rose-colored, purple, or white, fragrant flowers, produced in crowded axillary clusters, forming one-sided (mostly) spikes or racemes. This beautiful little plant has be- come naturalized in a few localities in this country. It is reported at Tewksbury, Mass., and at Cape Elizabeth, Maine. It is also found sparingly in Nova Scotia and New- foundland. Ca'llus. A hardened part. This term is best known as used to denote the cambium that forms at the cut end of a slip or cutting before the roots appear, and heals the wound over. It has a granular or warty appearance, and hence the name. 66 HENDEKSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS CAL Calocephalus. From kalos, beautiful, and cep- hale, a head ; alluding to the inflorescence. Nat. Ord. Composites. A genus of cottony or woolly annual or per- ennial herbs or shrubs, natives of Australia. C. Brownii, is the only cultivated species and is much used in carpet bedding and ribbon bordering. It is best known in cultivation as Leucophyta Brownii. Calocho'rtus. Mariposa Lily. From kalos, beautiful, and chortus, grass ; referring to the leaves. Nat Ord. Liliacece. This genus contains some of our gayest and most beautiful half-hardy bulbs. They were found in Columbia and California by the intrepid and unfortunate collector, Douglas. The flowers somewhat resemble the Tulip in shape. Colors are white, purple, and yellow, most of them richly spotted. They grow freely in light, sandy loam, should have slight pro- tection in winter, and succeed well grown in pots. They flower from July until September. Propagated by offsets. Introduced in 1826. Calode'ndron. Derived from kalos, beautiful and dendron, a tree ; in reference to the beauty of the plant. Nat. Ord. Rutaceee. C. Capense, the only described species, is a tall growing, green-house evergreen tree of an ornamental character. Its stems are pubes- cent, leaves in opposite pairs, and pubescent on both surfaces. The creamy white flowers, composed of linear oblong petals, are borne in immense terminal panicles. Native of the Cape of Good Hope, first introduced 1789. Calony'ction. The circumstance of the flowers opening at night has suggested the derivation of the generic name, from kalos, beautiful, and nyx, night. The plants comprising this genus are again relegated to Ipornma and Convolvulus. Calo'phaca. From kalos, beautiful, and phake, a lentil; in reference to the lentil-like flowers. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. C. Wolgarica, the only described species is a hardy deciduous shrub from Siberia. Its flowers are yellow, produced in axillary clusters, and somewhat resembles the Cytisus, an allied plant. Loudon says of it : " Grafted standard high on the common Laburnum, it forms an object at once singular, picturesque and beautiful." It is difficult of propagation except by grafting or from seed. Calo'phanes. From kalos, beautiful, and phaino, to appear. Nat. Ord. Acanthacew. C. oblongifolia, is a fine hardy herbaceous plant from Florida, bearing lively blue flowers, of little merit as a border plant, as the flowers are too small to be effective. Introduced in 1832. Calophy'llum. This genus of Guttifercs con- tains about twenty species mainly natives of the East, only four or five being found in America. They are large trees with shining green leaves, elegantly marked by numerous transverse veins. Some species yield valuable oils, and resins, and the timber of some of the larger sorts is much used for building, masts, etc. Several species are in cultivation for their ornamental foliage. Calopo'gon. From kalos, beautiful, and pogon, a beard ; the lip being beautifully fringed. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. CAL A small genus of tuberous Orchids, found in swampy situations on the south side of Long Island and many other parts of the United States. The flowers are borne on a scape growing about one foot high ; color bright purple, quite conspicuous. Like most of our native Orchids, it improves by cultiva- tion. Shady situations and a light, fibrous soil will suit it. Calotha'mnus. One of the beautiful genera of Myrtaceoz, in which Australia abounds. Shrubby green-house plants, with needle-like leaves and scarlet flowers. The name indicates that the branches become covered with the beauti- ful flowers. Propagated by cuttings of the firm young wood. Ca'ltha. Marsh Marigold. Butter Cup. A con- traction of kalathos, a goblet ; referring to the shape of the flower. Nat. Ord. Ranunculacece. C. palustris is an indigenous hardy herba- ceous perennial, common in swamps and marshy places throughout the Northern States. The flowers are bright yellow, borne in large clusters, in April or May. The leaves are highly esteemed as a pot herb. The plant is frequently called Cowslip, a name that properly belongs to Primula veris. Caltrops Water. The fruit of Trapa nutans, which see. Calycantha'ceae. A natural order of shrubs with square stems and opposite, entire leaves without stipules, and solitary lurid flowers, which have an aromatic fragrance ; natives of North America and Japan. The bark of Caly- canthus Jloridus, the Carolina Allspice, is used as a substitute for, and to adulterate cin- namon. There are two known genera, Calycanthus, of this country, and Chimonanthus, of Japan, comprising six species. Calyca'nthus. Sweet-scented Shrub, Straw- berry Shrub, Carolina Allspice. From kalyx, a cup or calyx, and anthos, a flower ; from the closed cup which contains the pistils. Nat. Ord. Calycanthaceai. C. jloridus is a native deciduous shrub, re- markable for the scent of the flowers (which is commonly thought to resemble that of ripe fruit), as well as for their peculiar color. It is a native of the Southern States, perfectly hardy, and will grow in almost any soil or situation. Propagated by seeds or offsets. The bark of this species is used in the adul- teration of cinnamon. There are other species and varieties, but this is the most conspicuous and desirable. Calyciform. Formed like a calyx. Caly'pso. Name from kalypto, to conceal, not merely to the covering of the stigma, but pre- serving an analogy between this botanical beauty, so difficult of access, and the secluded goddess, whose isle was fabled to be protected miraculously from the observation of navi- gators. Nat. Ord. Orchidacem. C. borealis, the only species, is one of the most beautiful of our native Orchids. It is a tuberous plant with one leaf and one flower only. The flower is rose-colored and has something of the appearance of a Cypripedium, owing to its forming a large pouch, which is woolly-hairy inside. It is found in cold bogs and wet woods in northern New England, west and northwards, its bulbs resting in AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 67 CAL moss ; the flowers appear as soon as the snow melts in spring. Calyste'gia. Bracted Bindweed. From kalyx, a calyx, and stega, a covering; in reference to the calyx being hid by two bracts, as is the case with a section of Bindweeds. Nat. Ord. Convolvulacece. This somewhat extensive genus includes our common hedge Convolvulus, but only a few species are considered interesting. C. pubescens, from China, a hardy double-flowered variety, is useful as a screen, or for covering unsightly places, the chief objection to it being its tendency to get beyond control. Propagated by division of root in spring. Calyx. The most external of the floral en- velopes; it is called adherent or superior when it is not separate from the ovary ; free or inferior when it is separate from that part ; and calyculate when it is surrounded at the base by bracts in a ring. Camaro'tis. From camara, an arched roof ; in reference to the form of the Up or labellum. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A small genus of East Indian and Brazilian Orchids, bearing pale rose flowers, with yellow lip, produced on pendulous racemes in March and April. They require a warm, moist house, and need but little rest. They are increased by division. Introduced in 1818. Syn. Sarco- chilus. Cama'ssia. Wild Hyacinth. From quamash, so called by Indians, who eat the bulbs. Nat. Ord. Liliaceoe. Allied to the Scilla or Squill. C. esculenta re- sembles the common blue Hyacinth, but is larger, its leaves being about a foot long, very narrow, and grooved down the inside. Its flower stalks grow from one to two feet high, ' and bear large, showy purple flowers. This plant grows in moist grounds from the Mis- sissippi River to the Pacific Ocean, and its bulbs form a staple food of the Indians, the different tribes visiting the plains for the pur- pose of collecting them, immediately after the plant has flowered. The occasion is one of their feasts, in which the women take an im- portant part, as the labor of digging devolves entirely upon them. The unmarried females endeavor to excel each other in the quantity they collect, their fame as future good wives depending upon their activity upon the Qua- mash plains. The roots are cooked by digging a hole in the ground and paving it with large stones, upon which a fire is lighted and kept up until they are red hot, when they are covered with alternate layers of branches and roots till the hole is full. It is then covered with earth, and a fire kept burning upon it for twenty-four hours, when the roots are taken out, dried, or pounded into cakes for future use. Cambium. The viscid fluid which appears between the bark and wood of Exogens, when the new wood is forming. Came'llia. Named in honor of George Joseph Kamel, or Camellus, a Moravian Jesuit and Eastern traveler. Nat. Ord. Ternstrcemiacece. This well-known genus is so closely allied to the tea family as to be distinguished from it with great difficulty, the great difference being in the number of parts and position of the flower. The number of true species CAM of this splendid genus is very limited, not exceeding six or seven, and only one or two of them are thought worth cultivation, except for botanical purposes. The hundreds of beautiful varieties which grace our collections, possessing at once the most rich and vivid colors in their flowers, and the noblest gran- deur in the whole aspect of the plants, fully compensate for this scarcity of species, and leave us little to desire that may not reason- ably be expected from the same skill and per- severance which have already produced such splendid results. C. Japonica may be regarded as the parent of the whole race of cultivated Camellias. It is a native of China and Japan, where it attains the altitude of a tree, and is much employed by the natives of those countries in decorating their gardens. Camel- lias delight in an even temperature, rapid fluctuation being injurious at any season, and the same regular and equable amount of both light and moisture should prevail for the whole year, that in effect the difference between the summer and winter seasons may be lessened as far as practicable For this purpose the plant should be kept in summer in a cool green-house, moderately shaded from the sun. When the plants are in a grow- ing state they require abundance of water, both at the roots and over the leaves. After making their growth, and setting their flower- buds, they require less attention than at any other period. Moderate supplies of water and a situation as cool as can be afforded without danger of frost or nipping currents of air are best. About the middle of March is the com- mencement of the ordinary growing season, when a higher temperature and plenty of water to the roots should be given them. Potting should be done when the greatest benefit will be conferred on the prospective shoots, which will be before the roots have made much pro- gress, or as soon after blooming as may be. A distinction in the quality of soil to be used should be made in accordance with the state of each plant, bearing in mind that they grow much stronger in loam, but do not usually produce flowers so freely, and vice versa for healthy specimens ; and under ordinary cir- cumstances an addition of leaf mould seems most advisable, introducing a small propor- tion of sand, and using the soil quite rough. At this time it should be determined at what period the plants will be required to bloom in the ensuing season, whether early or late, to accord with which the plants may be either forced or retarded. They will bear almost any amount of heat while growing, but after the formation of the flower-buds it must be withheld, as the slightest application then, instead of hastening their development, will infallibly cause them to fall off. Hence, the only way to "force" Camellias into early flowering in fall and winter is to keep them at a high temperature while growing in spring. A temperature of about 65° is the most proper for such as are desired to flower in the follow- ing winter ; 45° or 50° will be sufficient for the next* or those which may be said to bloom naturally, while the portion required to fur- nish flowers for the late spring months should be placed out of doors. This treatment must be continued until the new growths are com- pleted, and the incipient flower-buds can be discovered, when a cool, shaded situation C8 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS CAM should be provided for each section as they require it ; observing to supply them bounti- fully with water during the whole period of growth, with an occasional sprinkling over the foliage, and moderate shade. Any situa- tion secure from frost will preserve them through the winter, and as the flowers expand, the plants may be removed wherever their presence may be deemed most ornamental. Many of the best Camellias in cultivation have been raised from seed in this country ; several of the finest of which have originated in Boston, with Messrs. M. P. Wilder and C. H. Hovey, and have been awarded the highest honors. The usual mode of propagation is by cuttings, or by grafting or inarching, either of which should be done as soon as the new wood is firm enough to handle. The sub- jects operated on should be placed in a close, humid atmospnere, such as is afforded by a common hand-glass placed over a tan-bark bed. The union takes place in a few weeks, and with encouragement, the scions will form fine plants in one season. The Tea Plant, known generally as Thea Bohea or Thea viridis, is now returned by many botanists to this genus under the name of C. theifera. Camoe'nsia. Named in honor of Louis Cam- oens, a celebrated Portuguese poet. Nat. Ord. LeguminoscB. C. maxima, the only species yet in cultiva- tion, was introduced from Angola in 1878, and is the largest-flowered leguminous plant known. It is one of the most beautiful of tropical climbers. The splendid bunches of pendulous milk-white flowers, tinged with gold on the edges of the petals, grow in droop- ing racemes from the axils of the leaves ; the petals are white, venose, frilled at the margin, where they are tinted with golden-yellow. Propagated by cuttings. Campa'nula. Bell Flower. The diminutive of campana, a bell; literally, a little bell. Nat. Ord. CampanulaeecB. This extensive and well-known genus con- sists of more than two hundred species, including annuals, biennials, and perennials. Some of the hardy perennials are dwarf plants, producing a profusion of flowers, which ren- der them particularly adapted for rock-work or for growing in pots. C. pyramidalis is a tall-growing variety, at one time a very popu- lar plant, and some of the old gardeners still cling to it with a peculiar fondness. When grown in pots it requires frequent repot- ting, which will bring it to an enormous size. When well grown it is a splendid plant. G. medium (Canterbury Bell) is a very ornamental garden flower of the easiest culture, with double and single varieties, bearing blue, red, purple, and white flowers. Like other bien- nials, it may either be sown where it is to remain, any time after midsummer, or may be sown in beds in spring for transplanting. C. rotundifolia (Hairbell) is the most beautiful of our native species. Some of the species are grown in France and Italy as esculent roots. All succeed well in any good soil, and a*re pro- pagated freely by seeds or division. Campa'nula'ceae. A natural order of milky herbs or undershrubs, with alternate leaves, having no stipules, and usually bearing showy blue or white flowers. The plants are chiefly natives of the north of Asia, Europe, and CAM North America, and are scarcely known in hot regions. The chains of the Alps, Italy, Greece, the Caucasus, and the Altai, are their true homes. Several are found at the Cape of Good Hope. The plants have a milky, acrid juice, but the roots and young shoots are often culti- vated as articles of food, as, for example, the Kampion (Campanula Rapunculus). There are twenty-nine known genera, and 540 species. Some of them furnish handsome flowers for the border. Jasione, Phyteuma, Campanula, Adonophora, and Platycodon are examples of the order. Campa'nulate. Bell-shaped, as the corolla of Campanula. Campeachy Wood. The red dye-wood, better known as Logwood, obtained from Haima- toxylon Campechianum. Camphire, or Samphire. Crithmum maritimum. Camphor. See Camphora. Ca'mphora. Camphor-tree. From Camphor, the commercial name of its chief product. Nat. Ord. Lauraceoe. C. officinalis, the only species constituting this genus, is an evergreen tree that grows to a considerable height, dividing into many branches covered with smooth, greenish bark. Its flowers are small, white, destitute of calyx, with a six-petalled corolla. The fruit re- sembles that of the cinnamon. This tree is a native of China and Japan, growing abundantly in the woods of the western part of the island. The roots, wood and leaves have a strong odor of camphor. This substance is found to lodge everywhere in the interstices of the fibres of the wood, also in the pith, but most abundantly in the crevices and knots. The camphor of commerce, or Chinese cam- phor, is obtained from the wood, branches and leaves, by dry distillation. It is chiefly produced in the island of Formosa, and is brought in great quantities to Canton, whence foreign countries are supplied. Campion Moss. Silene acaulis. Bose. Lychnis coronaria, and L. Flos Jovis. Campsi'dium. From Kampsis, a curving. Nat. Ord. Bignoniaceas. C. jilicifolium is a beautiful climber from Chili. The foliage is of a dark shining green color, and resembles the fronds of some Ferns. The flowers are small, of a rich orange color. It is a rapid grower, well adapted for covering rafters or back walls in the green-house. In the woods, in its wild state, it grows forty to fifty feet high, cover- ing the tops of the trees in a most graceful manner. Camptoso'rus. Walking Fern. The rather rare or local C. rhizophyllus, is the only native representative of the genus, and is remark- able for its fronds, tapering above into a slender prolongation like a runner, which often roots at the apex, and gives rise to new fronds, and these in turn to others; hence the popular name. Syn. Asplenium. Campylobo'trys. From kampylos, a curve, and botrys, a bunch ; alluding to the form of the inflorescence. Nat. Ord. Cinchonacem. A genus of very beautiful green-house shrubs, natives of Brazil. They are more remarkable for their glossy foliage than for CAMPANULA (TALL). CATAIiPA. CAPSICUM VAR. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 69 CAM the beauty of the flowers. C. regalis has ellip- tic leaves, with a satiny luster and a rich bronzy-green color. This, with one or two other species, has been introduced into the green-house for the rare beauty of the foliage. They were introduced in 1859, and are propa- gated by cuttings. By some authors this genus is placed under Hoffmannia. Camwood. See Baphia. Canada Balsam. Abies Balsamea. Canada Rice. Zizania aquatica. Canada Tea. Gaultheria procumbens. Canada Thistle, See Cirsium. Canary Bird Flower. See Tropceolum. Canary Grass. See Phalaris. Canava'lia. A genus of elegant twining plants of the Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. The purple or white and red flowers are produced in racemes from the axils of the tri- foliate leaves. Well adapted for training up the rafters of a stove or warm green-house. Cancer Root. A common name applied to the genus Epiphegus, and also to Conopholis, on acconnt of their supposed medicinal vir- tues. Cancer Root. One-Flowered. Aphyllon uni- florum. Cancer-wort. Linaria spuria, and L. Elatine. Candidus. A pure white ; but not so clear as snow-white. Candle-berry Myrtle. Myrica cerifera, and M. Gale. Candle-berry Tree. Aleurites triloba. Candle Tree. Panama. See Parmentiera cerifera. Candle Wood. Californian. Fouquiera splen- dens. Cando'llea. Named for A. De Candolle, of Geneva, author of many botanical works. Nat. Ord. DilleniacecB. A genus of very ornamental evergreen shrubs, natives of Australia. C. tetrandra is a very compact-growing and free-flowering plant with yellow flowers, borne at the ends of the branches. Introduced in 1842. It is a valu- able addition to our fall and winter blooming plants. Propagated by cuttings, or by seeds when obtainable. Candy-tuft. See Iberis. Cane-brake. A common name for different species of Arimdinaria. Cane. Dumb. Dieffenbachia seguine, which see. Chair-bottom. Various species of Calamus, which see. Malacca. Calamus scipionum. Rattan. Calamus draco (C. Rotang). Sugar. Saccharum officinarum. Sugar, Chinese. Sorghum Saccharatum. Cane Stakes. The tree-like culms or stems of two species of Arundinaria, found in swamps and by the margins of rivers from Florida to Indiana. They are much used, especially by florists, for plant stakes, as they can be cut to any desired length, and are ready for use at once. Those from Indiana are considered the best, as they are tougher and more durable. Canescens. More or less gray, verging on white ; grayish-white ; hoary ; a term ap- plied to hairy surfaces. CAN Canker. A rather indefinite term, used to denote a disease resulting in the slow decay of trees or other plants attacked by it. See Carcinodes. Ca'nna. Indian Shot. The Celtic name for a cane or reed. Nat. Ord. Scitaminece. This is an extensive and very interesting genus of tender herbaceous perennials. Most of the species have showy crimson, orange and yellow flowers. They are usually grown for the remarkable beauty of their foliage, which is highly ornamental; hence they are favorite plants in cultivation, and produce a striking effect either singly, or grouped in beds upon the lawn in the summer months. If planted in a rich, deep soil, and freely watered, some of them will grow ten feet during the season, and from a single tuber make a clump three or four feet in diameter. A new section, introduced in 1884 by a Mr. Crozet of France, has a dwarf bushy habit. The flowers are produced in abundance from June to October when they can be lifted and flowered during winter in green-houses. This section comprises many grand varieties, the flowers of many of which are marked like orchids. Beauty is not their only claim to consideration, some of the species, as C. edulis, being grown extensively in Peru and the Sandwich Islands as a vege- table. Arrow-root is also made from this species. Propagated by seeds or more com- monly by division of tubers, which should be kept during the winter like Dahlias. Ca'nnabis. Hemp. So called from ganeh, its Arabic name, and from the Celtic appellation can, reed, and ab, small. Nat. Ord. Urticacem. Of the two species that compose this genus, the truly important one is C. sativa, a native of India, which furnishes the Hemp of com- merce. The Hemp plant is an annual, growing from four to eight feet high ; in very hot climates it frequently grows twenty feet high. The flowers are of separate sexes on differ- ent plants, the males being produced in racemes, and generally crowded together towards the top of the plant or end of the branches; the females are in short spikes, their calyx consisting merely of a single sepal, rolled around the ovary, but open on one side, and they have two hairy stigmas. The fruit (commonly known as "Hemp-seed") is a small, grayish-colored smooth, shining nut, containing a single oily seed. For the production of good fiber the seed is sown close, so as to produce straight stems without branches. The har- vesting takes place at two periods^ the male being pulled as soon as it has done" flowering, and the female not until the seeds are ripe. After gathering it undergoes treatment sim- ilar to that given flax to separate the fiber. In Persia and other very hot countries the plant furnishes a soft resin, which is collected by the coolies, and is smoked like tobacco, or pounded into pulp, so as to make a drink, both being stimulant and intoxicating. The Asiatics are passionately addicted to the use of this means of intoxication, as the names given to the Hemp show : "leaf of delusion," "increaser of pleasure," etc. Canoe-Wood tulipifera. Canterbury Bells The Tulip tree. Liriodendron See Campanula medium. 70 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS CAN Ca'ntua. From Cantu, the name of one of the species in Peru. Nat. Ord. PolemoniacecB. A genus of green-house evergreen shrubs from Peru. The foliage is fleshy, the flowers large and showy, produced in terminal corymbs, the colors being white, scarlet, yellow and blue. They require the same treatment as the Fuchsia. C. buxifolia is the Magic Tree of the Peruvian Indians, and was formerly used to decorate their houses on feast days. All the species are readily increased by cuttings, C. coronopifolia, a native of South Carolina, is Gilia coronopifolia of Ruiz and Pavon. Caoutchouc. The elastic, gummy substance known as Indian Rubber, which is the juice of various plants growing in tropical climates in different parts of the world. It is chiefly obtained from the Ficus elastica, Castilloa elastica, Urceola elastica, etc. The milky juice of Siphocampylos caoutchouc is quite different from the Caoutchouc of commerce. Cape Bulbs. A term employed to designate a large number of bulbs from the Cape of Good Hope, that require the protection of a frame to be grown in this latitude. They are not sufficiently hardy to endure our winters with- out protection. Among the class may be found Ixias, Babianas, Sparaxis, Tritonias, Geissorhiza, etc. Cape Figwort. See Phygelius. Cape Gooseberry. Physalis Peruviana. Cape Jessamine. See Gardenia florida. Cape Poison Bulb. Buphane disticha (Syn. Brunsvigia toxicaria). Cape Pond "Weed. Aponogeton distachyon. Cape Treasure Flower. Gazania pavonia. Caper tree. See Capparis. Capitate. Having a head ; pin-headed, as the stigma of the Primrose. Also, growing in a head, or close terminal clusters, as the flowers of Composites, etc. Capparida'ceas. A natural order composed of herbs, shrubs, or trees with alternate leaves and solitary or clustered flowers. The order is divided into two sub-orders : Cleomeai, with dry, dehiscent (splitting) fruit, and Cap- parece, with a berry fruit. The plants are chiefly tropical, and abound in Africa and India. Some are found in Europe and in North America. They have pungent and stimulant qualities, and have been used for scurvy. The flower buds of Capparis spinosa furnish the well-known Capers. C. JEgyptiaca is thought by some to be the Hyssop of Scrip- ture. There are thirty-three known genera and 355 species. Capparis, Cleome, Polanisia, and Cratceva, are examples of the genera. Ca'pparis. Caper-tree. From kabar, the Arabic name for Capers. Nat. Ord. Capparidacem. An extensive genus of tender or half-hardy climbing or trailing plants. The best known of the species is C. spinosa, a native of the south of Europe. In habit it resembles the common bramble. The Capers are the buds, which are gathered just before expanding, and pickled. In Italy the unripe fruit is some- times pickled in vinegar in the same manner as the buds. Capers are chiefly imported from Sicily, though they are extensively grown in the south of France. CAR Caprifolia'ceae. A natural order of shrubs or herbs, often twining, natives of the northern parts of Europe, Asia and America, found sparingly in northern Africa, and unknown in the southern hemisphere. Some are astrin- gent, and others have emetic and purgative qualities. Many have showy and fragrant flowers. The common Honeysuckle (Lonicera) is one of the most esteemed of our climbing or twining plants. Among other plants of the order may be mentioned the Snowball or Guelder Rose (Viburnum opulus), the Snow- berry (Symphoricarpus racemosus), the Elder (Sambucus nigra), and the Laurustinus (Vi- burnum Tinus), as well as Linncea borealis. The black berries of the species of Viburnum found on the Himalaya Mountains are eatable and agreeable. Capse'lla. A common weed belonging to Nat. Ord. Cruciferce. C. Bursa-pastoris, Shepherd's Purse, a native of Europe, is so called from the resemblance of its pods to some ancient form of purse. It has accompanied Europeans in all their migrations, and established itself wherever they have settled. It is a troublesome weed, hence its utilitarian popular name, "Pick- pocket," is more appropriate perhaps, than the sentimental one "Shepherd's Purse." Ca'psicum. Chili Pepper. From kapto, to bite; referring to its pungency. Nat. Ord. Solanacece. An extensive genus of tender annual and biennial plants, natives of the East and West Indies, China, Brazil and Egypt. C. annmim is the common garden pepper, a native of India, from which many varieties have origi- nated. C. frutescens, a native of Chili, is the species that furnishes the Cayenne Pepper of commerce, and is also used in the preparation known as Pepper Sauce. C. grossum, a native of India, is the Bell Pepper of our gardens. Capsule. A dry dehiscent seed vessel or fruit. Caraga'na. Siberian Pea-tree. So called from Carachana, its name in Tartary. Nat. Ord. Leguminosaz. An Asiatic genus of shrubs or low growing trees. One of the best knowu of the species is, C. Arborescens, the Siberian Pea-tree, a low sized shrubby tree, with numerous yellow, tapering twigs, and very small, pinnate leaves of the same character as those of the Acacias, but much smaller and of a rare golden-green color ; the flowers are small, yellow, and pro- duced singly or in clusters, at the axils of the leaves. It is a tree of marked beauty in early summer, by the contrast it presents with shrubs of dark and less delicate foliage. C. Chamlagu, a Chinese species, is a low spread- ing shrub, two to four feet high, with branches at first upright and then decumbent. Loudon says: "When grafted on C. arborescens, it forms a singularly picturesque pendulous tree ; beautiful not only when it is in leaf or in flower, but from the graceful lines formed by its branches, even in the midst of winter, when they are completely stripped of their leaves." The flowers are produced freely in large clusters, yellow or reddish, in May or June. Carageen or Carrageen. Irish Moss. A name given in Ireland to Chondrus crispus and some other allied Alga. Vast quantities are col- AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 71 CAR lected for sale, and supply a useful article for feeding cattle, and making jelly for invalids. Its decided sea taste and odor are against its being a perfect substitute for isinglass. There is no doubt, however, that in the sick chamber it is a far better substitute than gelatine, as that has very small, if any nutri- tive qualities, a fact not perhaps sufficiently known. Caragua'ta, A genus of Bromeliacece, closely allied to Tillandsia ; stove-house epiphytes. Their bright scarlet bracts are very showy when in bloom. Caraway. See Carum. Carcinodes. A term applied to what is com- monly called Canker in trees, which may be characterized as a slow decay, and in regard to which the Rev. M. J. Berkeley, an excellent authority, says : " The appearances are very different in different plants, and the causes different. The same plant, as the Apple, may even exhibit three or four different kinds of Canker. One form arises from the attack of the Woolly Aphis; a second from the devel- opment of bundles of adventitious roots, whose tips decay and harbor moisture, and contaminate the subjacent tissues ; a third exhibits itself without any apparent cause, m the form of broad, dark, or even black patches, spreading in every direction ; while a fourth shows pale, depressed streaks, which soon become confluent, and eventually kill, first the bark, and then, as a necessary conse- quence, the underlying wood. The only remedy is to cut out completely the affected parts, and that is not always efficacious. The Canker of the Plum and Apricot is brought on by gumming. In many cases Canker arises doubtless from the roots penetrating into some ungenial soil, which vitiates the juices and induces death to the weaker cells, from which it spreads to surrounding tissue. The rugged appearance is generally due to a struggle between the vital powers of the plant and the diseased action." Cardami'ne. Ladies' Smock. Cuckoo Flower. From kardamine, a diminutive of kardamon, cress ; referring to the acrid flavor. Nat. Ord. Cruciferce. An extensive genus of hardy herbaceous perennials, common in many parts of the United States, Europe, and northern Asia. C. pratensis, popularly known as Ladies' Smock or Cuckoo Flower, is a very pretty meadow plant, with large lilac flowers, common in Europe, but a rather rare plant in this coun- try. A double variety of this species, some- times found growing wild, is remarkably proliferous, the leaflets producing new plants where they come in contact with the ground, and the flowers, when they wither sending up a stalked flower-bud from their centers. The leaves of some of the species are used in salads. Ca'rdamon. See Amomum. Cardinal Flower. See Lobelia cardinalis. Cardiospe'rmum. Balloon Vine. From kar- dia, a heart, and sperma, seed ; in allusion to the shape of the seeds. Nat. Ord. Sapin- dacece. Of this small genus only one species is grown as an ornamental plant, viz., C. Hali- cacabum, which is a rapid-growing, handsome CAR climber, remarkable for an inflated mem- branous capsule, from which it receives its common name, Balloon Vine. It grows readily from seed. Introduced from India in 1504. Cardoon. See Cynara. Ca'rduus. Thistle. From ard, the Celtic word for a prickle or sharp point ; referring to the spines of the Thistle. Nat. Ord. Composites. Some of the species are very ornamental, though many of them are tall, robust-growing plants, which require a great deal of room and are too large for a small garden. C. Marianus (Syn. Silybum Marianvm) the Holy Thistle, is well marked by the white veins on its large, shining leaves, fabled to have been produced by a portion of the milk of the Vir- gin Mary having fallen on them. They are annuals, growing freely from seed. Ca'rex. From careo, to want; the upper spikes being without seeds. Nat. Ord. Cyperacece. This genus includes more than 1,000 species, widely distributed over the temperate and Arctic regions. They are all perennial grasses ; a few species are handsome plants for the green-house, and useful for basket work and aquariums. They are usually found growing in bogs, marshes, or moist woods, where they yield a very inferior quality of grass. C. Fraseri is the handsomest species of the genus, resembling at a short distance, when in flower, one of the IAliaceoz. The leaves of several of the species are used for seating chairs, and various other purposes for which we use the common Flag. There are more than 300 species in this country, all of which are without interest except to the botanist. Caricature Plant. See Graptophyllum. Carinate. Keel-shaped. Carludo'vica. Named after Charles IV. of Spain, and Louisa, his queen. Nat. Ord. Cyclanthacecs. A genus of low-growing, palm-like, stove- house plants. Some of them have long, climbing stems, sending out aerial roots, which fasten upon the trunks of trees or hang down like ropes, while others are stemless and form dense thickets. C. palmata is one of the more interesting species. Its leaves are shaped and plaited like a fan, and are borne on long, slender stocks. They are of tolerably large size, and deeply cut into four or five divisions, each of which is again cut. It is from the leaves of this species that the well-known Panama hats are made. The leaves are cut when young, and the stiff par- allel veins removed, after which they are slit into shreds, but not separated at the stalk end, and immersed in boiling water for a short time, and then bleached in the sun. This species is also exceedingly useful for any orna- mental or decorative purpose. C. plicata is a very interesting climbing species, with foli- age similar to that of C. palmata, but with much shorter leaf-stalks. There are several other species useful for decorative purposes, and valuable from the fact that they will suc- ceed in any out-of-the-way corner, where most other plants would perish. This genus is common throughout the shady thickets of Panama, and along the coast of New Grenada and Ecuador. They are increased from suckers or from seed. Carnation. See Dianthus caryophyllus. s 72 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS CAR Carneus. Pale red, or flesh-color. Carnivorous Plants. A term applied to Dioncea mu8cipula, Darlingtonia Californica, the Dro- seras, and other insect-catching plants, on the supposition that they feed on the insects which they entrap. Carob Tree. See Ceratonia. Carolina Allspice. A popular name of the Calycanthus, or Sweet-scented Shrub. Carolina Jasmine. See Gelsemium. Carpel. A division of the ovary; one of the rolled-up leaves of which the pistil is com- posed, whether they are combined or distinct; the small parts of which compound fruits are formed. Carpente'ria. Named after the late Professor Carpenter of Louisiana. Nat. Ord. Saxifrag- acece. An ornamental, hardy, tall-growing shrub with pure white flowers, and broadly-lanceolate pinnately-veined leaves, whitened beneath, with a minute and close pubescence. Intro- duced to cultivation from the Sierra Nevadas, California, in 1880. Carpi'nus. Hornbeam, Iron Wood. From the Celtic car, wood, and pinda, head ; the wood being used for the yokes of cattle. Nat. Ord. Corylacew. C. Americana, the only representative of this genus in our woods, is a low-growing tree of compact form, and a very rigid trunk. It is particularly handsome in autumn, because of its richly-colored foliage. It is found in nearly all parts of the country, but is not plentiful in any section. The wood of this tree is exceedingly hard and close-grained, and is well suited for any work requiring great hardness and strength. Carpoly'za. From karpos, fruit, and lyssa, rage ; in reference to the three-celled fruit, or seed-pod, opening like the mouth of an enraged animal. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidaceaz. A genus of South African bulbs, the only species being G. spiralis, which is a very pretty little plant. The leaves and flower scape are twisted, from which fact it derives its specific name. The flowers are white, sepals pink, tipped with green. It requires protection in winter, or may be kept dry and grown in pots, starting them about the first of February. They are propagated by offsets. Introduced in 1791. Carrion Flower. Coprosmanthus herbaceus, Smilax herbacea, and the genus Stapelia. Carrot. Daucus carota. The wild Carrot, indig- enous to Great Britain and many other parts of Europe, and so extensively naturalized in this country as to become one of the most troublesome pests of the farmer, has generally been supposed to be the parent of the many varieties of the common garden Carrot, which has been under cultivation from time im- memorial. Dioscorides describes accurately the Carrot, both as a wild plant and as culti- vated as an esculent root. The parentage was not questioned until Miller, the celebrated English gardener and botanist, undertook to improve the wild Carrot by cultivation, and signally failed in his many and varied attempts. Others have experimented at dif- ferent times, with no better success. The prevailing opinion now is that the garden CAR Carrot is a distinct species, or was obtained under circumstances entirely different or unknown at the present day. The carrot was introduced into England, in about its present form, by the Dutch, during the reign of Queen Elizabeth, and soon thereafter became a favor- ite vegetable, and a useful as well as a profit- able field crop. Careful selection has gradually improved the quality in eertain respects, of the Carrot, during the past hundred years, and good cultivation is now required to keep the varieties up to their proper standard. Cartha'mus. Safflower. From quartom, to paint, in Arabic ; the flowers yield a fine color. Nat. Ord. Composite. This genus consists of two species only, annual plants, found in Caucasus and Egypt. C. tinctorius, the Saffron Thistle, is extensively cultivated in India, China, and other parts of Asia, for the coloring matter which its flowers yield. These flowers contain two kinds of coloring matter — the one yellow, which is soluble in water, the other red, which being of a resinous nature, is insolu- able in water, but is soluble in alkaline carbon- ates. The fruit is never converted to any use, as it dyes only dull shades of color ; the other is a beautiful rose-red, capable of dyeing every shade, from the palest rose to a cherry-red. It is chiefly used for dyeing silk, affording various shades of pink, rose crimson and scarlet. Mixed with finely-powdered talc it forms the well-known substance called rouge. In France this species is grown for the beauty of its flowers, and in Spain it is grown in gardens to color soups, olives and other dishes. It is readily grown from seed, which should be started in the hot-bed or green- house. Ca'rum. Caraway. From Caria, in Asia Minor, where it was first discovered. Nat. Ord. Vmbellifera,. A small genus of hardy biennials, but one species of which, C. Carui, is of any special interest. This is a native of Europe, and pro- duces the Caraway seeds which contain an aromatic volatile oil, and are used in flavoring. The plants are of the simplest culture, requir- ing only to sow the seeds where the plants are wanted to grow. Ca'rya. Hickory. The Greek name for the Walnut. Nat. Ord. Juglandaceai. A well-known genus of hardy deciduous trees, confined wholly to North America. C. alba is the common Shell-bark or Shag-bark Hickory, so called on account of the rough, shaggy bark of the trees, peeling off in long, narrow strips from large trees. This species furnishes the best Hickory nuts. C. olivcefor- mis is the Pecan-nut tree, common from Illi- nois southward. It is a large and beautiful tree. Its delicious nuts are well-known. C. porcina is the Pig-nut, one of the most valu- able as a timber tree, but the fruit is worth- less. C. amara is the Bitter-nut or Swamp Hickory-nut. C. sulcata is the Western Shell- bark Hickory, remarkable for the size of the nut which has a very thick shell, but is of excel- lent quality. C. tomentosa, common in the West and South, bears the largest nuts of any of the species, the size, however, being at tha expense of the quality. The timber of all the species is valuable for any purpose where strength and elasticity are required. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 73 CAR Caryoph'yllaceae. An extensive order of herbs, • with stems swollen at the joints, the flowers terminal, solitary, or disposed in racemes, panicles or corymbs ; the leaves entire and opposite. The plants of this order are natives principally of temperate and cold regions. They inhabit mountains, rocks, hedges and waste places. Humboldt says that Clove- worts constitute a twenty-secondth part of the flowering plants of France, one twenty- seventh of those of Germany, one seventeenth of Lapland, and one seventy-secondth of North America. There are some very showy flowers in the order, such as the well-known and popular Pinks and Carnations ; but the greater number are mere weeds. The Clove Pink (Dianthus Caryophyllus) is the origin of all the cultivated varieties of Carnations, as Picotees, Bizarres and Flakes. The common Chickweed (Stellaria media) and Spurry (Sper- gula arvensis), the latter used as fodder for sheep, are other examples. There are about sixty genera and 1,100 species. Dianthus, Silene, Lychnis, Cerastium, Arenaria, Alsine, Saponaria, are examples of this order. Caryophy'llus. Clove-tree. From karuon, a nut, and phyllon, a leaf; referring to the appearance of the flower-buds. Nat. Ord. Myrtacece. C. aromaticus, the tree producing the well- known spice called Cloves, is a handsome evergreen, rising from fifteen to thirty feet, with large elliptic leaves and purplish flowers, arranged in terminal heads on short-joiuted stalks. It is a native of the Molucca Islands, where it is not only cultivated for its great commercial value, but also as an ornamental tree. The whole tree is highly aromatic, and the foot-stalks of the leaves have nearly the same pungency as the calyxes of the flowers. A celebrated writer who had visited the islands, says : " Clove-trees as an avenue to a residence are perhaps unrivalled — their noble height, the beauty of their form, the luxuri- ance of their foliage, and, above all, the spicy fragrance with which they perfume the air, produce, on driving through a long line of them, a degree of exquisite pleasure only to be enjoyed in the clear, light atmosphere of those latitudes." Caryo'pteris. From karuon, a nut, and pteron, a wing; the fruit is winged. Nat. Ord. Ver- benacece. C. Mastacanthus, the best known species, is a hardy herbaceous plant, of easy culture, blooming in autumn. The flowers are light azure-blue in color, and are borne in axillary globose heads. It grows about two feet high, and was introduced from China in 1844. Caryo'ta. Toddy Palm. The old Greek name used by Dioscorides ; the Greeks first applied this name to their cultivated Date. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. G. urens, commonly called Fish-tail Palm, is the most prominent species of this genus. It is a beautiful tree, growing from sixty to eighty feet high, with a trunk a foot in diam- eter, producing many pendulous spikes of flowers, which are succeeded by strings of suc- culent globular berries, dark red when ripe, and are very sharp and acrid in taste. In Ceylon it yields a sort of liquor, sweet, whole- some, and no stronger than water. It is taken from the tree two or three times a day, each CAS yield from a large tree being from three to four gallons. "When boiled down it makes a coarse brown sugar called jaggory. When the tree has come to maturity there comes out a bud from the top ; that bud the natives cut and prepare by putting salt, pepper, lemons, garlic, leaves, etc., over it, which keeps it from ripening. They daily cut off a thin slice from the end, and the liquor drops into a ves- sel, which they set to catch it. The buds are most delicious to the taste, resembling wal- nuts or almonds. The species are natives of the Indies, and are grown in the green-house, where they succeed well with the same treat- ment which other tropical Palms require. Cascari'lla Bark. See Croton. Cashew-Nut. See Anacardium. Cassa'ndra. Leather-leaf. C. Calyculata, the only known species, sometimes included under Andromeda, is generally distributed through- out the northern hemisphere. It is a low, much-branched shrub belonging to the Nat Ord. Ericaceae,, and produces its pretty white flowers on one-sided racemes, early in spring. Cassava Bread, or Cassava Meal. See Mani- hot utilissima. Ca'ssia. Senna. From the Greek name of a plant, Kassian, of the Bible. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. An extensive genus of hardy herbaceous and green-house perennials, found scattered over nearly all parts of the globe. Many of the species are well known, and considered of great importance for their medicinal proper- ties. The leaflets of several of the species constitute what is' known in medicine as Senna leaves. Those from C. acutifolia and C. obovata, African and East Indian species, are the most highly esteemed. The leaves of C. Marilandica, wild Senna, a native of the Middle and Southern States, have, to some extent, the same properties, and are some- times used as a substitute for the officinal Senna. This species may be j ustly regarded as one of our most valued plants for the border. It grows from three to four feet high ; foliage a beautiful deep green, not unlike the finer Acacias; flowers bright yellow, produced in short axillary racemes, continuing a long time in succession. Some of the roadsides of Long Island are bordered with this plant, and no public park, with all that art can bestow upon its drives in the way of ornamentation, can compare in simplicity and beauty with these roadsides. G. nictitans, Wild Sensitive Plant, another native species, is a very beau- tiful hardy annual, common on our roadsides, growing about six inches high, and in appear- ance almost identical with the Sensitive Plant, Mimosa pudica, and well worth cultivating for its beautiful foliage. C. chammcrista, com- monly known as Partridge Pea, is a very pretty species, common in the Southern States. Cassi'nia. Named after M. Henri Cassini, an eminent French botanist. Nat. Ord. Com positm. A very handsome genus of shrubby plants or herbaceous perennials, natives of Australia and New Zealand. C. Vauviliersii produces numerous small white flowers in compact 74 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OP PLANTS CAS clusters, which though pretty, are not enough to recommend the plant for general culture ; but its golden coat which suffuses the back of the leaves, and still more densely the entire young stems, will always make it an object of interest. It is perfectly hardy, and is readily increased by cuttings. Casta'nea. Chestnut. From a town of that name in Thessaly. Nat. Ord. CorylacecB. The Chestnut Tree is well known because of the nuts, which are universally esteemed. There are two species indigenous to this country, the common Chestnut, C. ves- ca, found throughout the States, and C. pumila, a low-growing tree or shrub, common south- ward, which produces a smaller nut, known as the Chinquapin. The Spanish Chestnut, a variety of C. vesca, differing from our native Chestnut mainly in the size of the fruit, is a native of Asia Minor, introduced at a very early date. This tree grows to an immense size. A tree near Queens, L. I., planted nearly one hundred years ago, has a trunk almost twelve feet in circumference, and is about fifty feet high, with immense spreading branches. It is one of the noblest shade trees to be found in this country. A species of late introduction from Japan promises to become one of our most useful as well as most ornamental trees, or, more properly, tall shrubs. The fruit of this species was received in New York a few years since in a consignment of goods from Japan. The merchant receiving the same, seeing the nuts were of such excellent quality, fully equal to those of our native species, and as large as the Spanish Chestnut, attempted the growing of them, and with remarkable success. In five years they commenced- to fruit, and are now bearing profusely. The shrub is of an orna- mental character, suitable for the lawn. The fruit or nuts are borne within two feet of the ground. Those who have had a favorable opportunity to judge of its character, predict its early adoption as a hedge plant, for which purpose it seems well adapted. In addition to its value as an ornamental hedge, it would undoubtedly prove valuable for its yield of nuts. Castille'ja. Painted-Cup. Named in honor of Don Castilleja, a Spanish botanist. Nat. Ord. ScrophulariaceoB. This genus consists of about forty species, nearly all of which are American, a few being found in northern Asia. They are remarkable for their brightly colored floral leaves or bracts, the most of which are more showy than the flowers, which are commonly yellowish ox- greenish. C. indivisa, a beautiful perennial species, has recently been introduced into our gardens from Europe, although it is a native of Colorado. It is one of our most desirable hardy plants, producing its brilliant scarlet bracts in great profusion. This species is so entirely distinct from most other plants, and at the same time so showy, and can be grown with as little difficulty as most other herbaceous plants, that we cannot but consider it a great acquisition. Castillo'a. A Mexican tree belonging to the Nat. Ord. Urticacece, and having male and female flowers alternating one with the other, on the same branch. C. elastica, contains a milky juice yielding Caoutchouc. CAT Castor Oil Bean. See Ricinus. Casuari'na. Beef-wood. Supposed to be named from the resemblance the leaves bear to the feathers of the Cassowary. Nat. Ord. Casurir naceaz. A genus of very curious trees, constituting of themselves a distinct family. They have very much the appearance of gigantic Horse- tails {EquisetacexB), being trees with thread- like, jointed, furrowed branches, without leaves. The flowers are not of a showy char- acter. These plants are met most abundantly in tropical Australia, and occasionally in the Indian Islands, New Caledonia, etc. In Aus- tralia, from their somber appearance, they are planted in cemeteries. The timber fur- nished by these trees is valuable for its ex- treme hardness and its red color, it is called in the islands Beef-wood. The several species .are highly esteemed for their uses in the me- chanic and useful arts. A few of them have been introduced into green-houses for their singular appearance. Cata'lpa. Indian Bean. Cigar Tree. The Indian name of the first discovered species. Nat. Ord. Bignoniacem. A small genus of ornamental trees, natives of North America, the West Indies, Japan and China. C. bignonwides (syn. Syringafolia), a native of the Southern States, and one of the most beautiful shade trees, has bright, yellow- ish-green, heart-shaped leaves, and is remark- able for its numerous loose panicles of white flowers, spotted with orange and purple. C. b. aurea, a golden-leaved variety, is slower growing than the parent and is golden over the entire leaf on the young growths in June, and the second growth in August and September. C. speciosa, the Western Catalpa, cultivated and now widely naturalized in southern Arkansas, western Louisiana, and eastern Texas, has white flowers, in rather large pan- icles and in general appearance is similar to C. bignonioides, but may be easily distin- guished from that species by its much larger flower, fruit, and seed. C. Bungeii, generally known as C. Kazmpferi, is probably a small form of C. bignonioides, and is a remarkable shrub, growing from six to eight feet high, with a diameter from eight to ten feet. The trees when young make a rapid growth, and are particularly valuable for lawn or street decoration, being, so far, entirely exempt from the ravages of insects and caterpillars. Catana'nche. From katanangke, a strong in- centive; in reference to an ancient custom among the Greek women of using it in love potions. Nat. Ord. Composite. A small genus of annuals and hardy her- baceous perennials. C. cwrulea, a perennial species, with slender stalks, long, narrow leaves, and large heads of sky-blue flowers, is a native of the south of Europe. From this species several varieties have been pro- duced with white and double flowers, all very desirable for the open border and for cuttings. They are increased by division or from seeds. C. lutea, an annual species with yellow flowers, is a native of Candia. Catase'tum. From kata, downward, and seta, a bristle ; referring to the position of the two horns of the column. Nat. Ord. Orchidacew. An extensive genus of strong and rapid growing, terrestrial orchids, common in the AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 75 CAT tropical portions of South America. The flowers of this genus are remarkable for sin- gularity of form, and some are very beautiful, and have a delicious fragrance. The same plant not unfrequently produces what would seemingly appear to be totally different flowers, it has a decided propensity to ' ' sport. ' ' The singular shape of their flowers, and other marked characteristics, entitle them a place in every collection. When at rest they should be kept cool and dry ; in a growing state, they require strong heat and copious waterings. Increased by division. Cat-brier. See Smilax. Catchfly. See Silene. Lobels'. See Silene armeria. Ca'techu Tree. Acacia (Mimosa) Catechu. Caterpillars. Scorpiurus vermiculatus. Catkin. A deciduous spike, consisting of uni- sexual apetalous flowers. The flowers of the Willow, Hazel, etc., are Catkins. Cat-Mint and Catnip. See Nepeta. Cat-Tail. One of the popular names of Pearl Millet ; also applied to Equisetum, Hippuris, and a few other plants. Cat-Tail Flag. See Typha. Cat's Tail Grass. One of the common names of the genus Phleum, Timothy or Herd's Grass. Cattle-poison Plant. W. Australia. Several species of Gastrolobiums. Cattle'ya. Named after Mr. Cattley, a dis- tinguished patron of botany. Nat. Ord. Orchidacecs. What the Rose and Carnation are among garden plants, the Cattleya is among Orchids, pre-eminently beautiful. Not a species but possesses claims of the strongest nature on the culturist's attention, either for its delicate loveliness or the rich and vivid coloring of its large and handsome flowers. They are na- tives of the temperate parts of South America, and in cultivation are found to succeed in a lower temperature than is necessary for the majority of plants of the same order. They will grow either on cork, blocks of wood, or in pots of sphagnum, carefully drained and moderately watered at all times ; indeed, the damp atmosphere of the house is nearly suffi- cient for them through the winter ; and if about fifty degrees of heat is steadily main- tained through this period, with an increase of about ten degrees in summer, the plants will be found to grow vigorously, and conse- quently flower in perfection. The colors of the flowers run through all the shades of white, rose, rosy-lilac, crimson and carmine, nor is even yellow absent. Where all are beautiful it is scarcely necessary to select. The following, however, should be in every col- lection. C. citrina, crispa, Harrisonice, inter- media, labiata, Loddigesii. Percivilleana, Skin- neri, Mossice and Triance, with their numerous varieties, and many others. All the Cattleyas are increased by division. See Orchids. Caudate. Tailed ; having a process like a tail. Caudex. The axis of a plant, consisting of the stem and root. Applied also to the trunk of Palms and Tree Ferns. Caudex repens is a creeping stem, or what is now called a rhizome. Caudex dexcendens is the root. CED Caulescent. Acquiring a stem. Cauliflower. Brassica oleracea cauliflora. The Cauliflower is the most delicate and delicious of the genus Brassica. Its early history is entirely unknown, but it is supposed to have originated in Italy. It is mentioned by Gerarde in 1597, as then very rare in England, and it was not brought to any degree of per- fection, or grown for the market, until about 1700. From that period until the present, there has been a slow, but marked and steady improvement in the size and quality of this vegetable. To the English and Dutch gar- deners we are chiefly indebted for the per- fection the Cauliflower has attained. Heads of immense size are now grown for the market ; it being by no means uncommon to see a head perfectly sound and smooth, fully ten inches in diameter, and, contrary to the usual rule, size is not obtained at the expense of quality, the larger, if differing at all, being more tender and delicious. The varieties of the Cauliflower are numerous. In this work we cannot point out the best, as locality and se- lection cause variations more marked than even the varieties. The most popular in the United States at this time are Snowball and Erfurt for early, and Algiers for late. For the perfection of the Cauliflower a deep, rich, loamy soil is required, a low, moist situation being preferable ; it will not succeed in dry ground. Where irrigation can be employed, the greatest benefits will be derived ; in fact, a large crop will be secured with irrigation, when without it the result would be total fail- ure. Culture nearly the same as for cabbage, which see. Caulophy'llum. The generic name of the plant commonly known as Blue Cohosh, sometimes called Pappoose-root. Cayenne Pepper. See Capsicum. Ceano'thus. Red Root, New Jersey Tea. An obscure name in Theophrastus, probably mis- spelled. Nat. Ord. Rhamnacew. A genus of low-growing shrubs, one of the most conspicuous and best known being C. Americanus, a species common in dry wood- lands. This shrub attained considerable notoriety during the American Revolution, on account of its leaves being dried and used as a substitute for tea, a practice not yet wholly discontinued. The roots are used in dyeing wool of a Nankeen or cinnamon color. There are species from Mexico and South America, that have lately been introduced into the green-house, and regarded with favor. Their season of flowering is too short to warrant very general cultivation. Cecro'pia. Snake wood. A genus of orna- mental, evergreen, soft-wooded, milky trees, natives of South America, and belonging to the Nat. Ord. Urticacece. C. peltata, the Trumpet Tree of the West Indies and South America, so called be- cause its hollow branches are used for musi- cal instruments, is the only species of interest. Cedar. See Juniperus. Barbadoes and Bermuda. Juniperus Bermu- diana. Red Californian. I/ibocedrus decwrreus. Red Virginian. See Juniperus. 76 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS y CED Cedar- Apples. The Pennsyivanian name for the curious excrescences on Juniperus Virgini- cmus, caused by a fungus. Cedar of Lebanon. See Cedrus. Cedre'leae. Formerly regarded as a distinct order, now included as a tribe of the Nat. Ord. Meliacece. Cedrone'lla. Supposed to be derived from kedron, the cedar, because of its fragrant resinous scent. Nat. Ord. Labiatce. A small genus of sweet-scented perennial herbs, rarely shrubs, with pale, purplish flowers in spikes or terminal racemes ; natives of North America and the Canary Isles. C. cordata, a neat little alpine plant with a leaf somewhat like the Ground Ivy, and a lilac, slightly dotted, flower somewhat like that of the Salvia, is very dwarf and pretty, and will probably prove a -desirable plant for rock work. Cedron Tree. See Simaba. Ce'drus. The Cedar. From Latin Cedrus, Greek Kedros ; a name for a coniferous tree in the time of Homer. Nat. Ord. Coniferce. This genus consists of a few species that have been separated from Abies and Juniper- us, their characteristics being their evergreen leaves, disposed in bundles, or fasicles, and their upright cones. The Cedar of Lebanon is one of the most prominent species, so often mentioned in Sacred History. It is one of the most beautiful evergreen trees for lawn decoration, though rarely met with. There is a noble specimen on the grounds of "W. F. D. Manice, at Queens, L. I. It is upwards of thirty feet high, with a trunk four and a half feet in circumference. There was a still larger speci- men a few years since on the grounds of the late Geo. C. Thorburn, at Astoria, L. I. C. Deodara, the Deodar or Indian Cedar, is of vigorous pyramidal form with light silvery glaucous-green foliage, very graceful and drooping. It is a most charming evergreen, not entirely hardy, north of Philadelphia, but one of the most beautiful ornamental trees in the Southern States. Ce'landine. The popular name of the genus Chelidonium, which see. Celastra'ceae. This natural order consists of shrubs, or small trees, natives of the warmer parts of Europe, Asia, and North America, and far more abundant beyond the tropics than within them. There are thirty-five known genera, and over two hundred and fifty species. Celastrus, Euonymus, and ElcBodendron, are examples of this order. Cela'strus. Staff Tree, Bitter Sweet. From kelas, the latter season ; referring to the fruit hanging on the trees all winter. Nat. Ord. Celaslracece. This genus, consists of trees, shrubs, and climbers. One native species, C. scandens, is a handsome twining shrub, remarkable for its orange-colored capsules, and the scarlet coating of the fruit. It is planted as an ornamental climber, and is known by its pop- ular name of Bitter Sweet. Propagated by seeds and suckers. Celeriac or Turnip-Rooted Celery. Apium graveolens var. rapaceum. A very distinct variety of Celery, the peculiarity of which consists in the root, which closely resembles CEL that of a turnip, and is the part eaten. It is more hardy than the common Celery, and can be preserved for use much later in the spring. It is but little grown except in France and Germany, where it is employed as a vegetable and as a salad. It is usually boiled until tender, and then slightly pickled in vinegar. Ce'lery. Apium graveolens. Celery is a native of England, and is found in its wild state in marshy places and ditches near the coast. It is a biennial. There are in its wild state two kinds, the red and the white-stalked, of both of which there are numerous garden varieties, the cultivation of which is carried on to a very great extent, both here and in Europe. As it is a crop of vast importance we give in a con- densed form such information regarding its cultivation, as will enable anyone to succeed in its cultivation. The seeds are sown on a well-pulverized, rich border, in the open ground, as early in the season as the ground can be worked. (For instructions in sowing, see article headed "Sowing and Planting, Use of the Feet in.") The bed is kept clear of weeds until July, when the plants are set out for the crop. But as the seedling plants are rather trouble- some to raise, when for private use only, and as they can usually be purchased cheaper than they can be raised on a small scale, it is scarcely worth while to sow the seed. But when wanted in quantity, the plants should al- ways be raised by the grower, as Celery plants are not only difficult to transplant, but are usually too expensive to buy when the crop is grown to sell. The European plan is, to make a trench six or eight inches deep in which to plant Celery ; but our violent rain storms in summer soon showed us that this plan was not a good one here, so we set about planting on the level surface of the ground, just as we do with all vegetables. Celery re- quires an abundance of manure, which, as usual with all other crops, must be well mixed and incorporated with the soil before the Celery is set out. When the ground is well prepared, we stretch a line to the dis- tance required, and beat it slightly with a spade, so that it leaves a mark to show where to place the plants. These are set out at distances of six inches between the plants, and usually four feet between the rows, when the Celery is to be " banked" up for early or fall use ; but when grown for winter use, from two to three feet between the rows is suffi- cient. Great care must be taken, in putting out the Celery, to see that the plant is set just to the depth of the roots ; if much deeper, the " heart " might be too much covered up, which would impede the growth. It is also important that the soil be well packed to the roots in planting, and this we do by returning on each row, after planting, and pressing the soil against each plant firmly with the feet ; and if the operation can be done in the evening, and the plants copiously watered, no further at- tention will be required. Planting may be done any time from the 15th of June to the first week in August. After planting, nothing is to be done but keep the crop clear of weeds until September ; by that time the handling process is to be begun, which consists in drawing the earth to each CELERY (HANDLING) CELERY *' BANKED UP." 75 CELERY (STORING IN TRENCHES FOR WINTER). CELERY (HALF DWARF). CEREUS «RANDIFLORUS. mr tlfclill* CELOSIA JAPONICA. CENTA.UREA iLEMENTEl. CENTUANTHUS MACROSIPHON. CELOMA CRISTATA. CERASTIUM. CEPHALOTUS FOLLICULABJ8. CEL06IA PLUM06A. CENTAUREA CYANUS AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 77 CEL side of the Celery, and pressing it tightly to it, so as to give the leaves an upward growth preparatory to blanching for use. Supposing this handling process is done by the middle of September, by the first week in October it is ready for " banking up," which is done by digging the soil from between the rows, and laying or banking it up with the spade on each side of the row of Celery. After being so banked up in October, it will be ready for use in three or four weeks, if wanted at that time. But if, as in most cases, it is needed for winter use only, and is to be put away in trenches, or in the cellar, as will hereafter be described, all that it requires is the operation of " handling." If the Celery is to be left in the open ground where it was grown, then a heavy bank must be made on each side of the rows, and as cold weather approaches — say in this latitude by the middle of November — an additional covering of at least a foot of leaves or litter must be closely packed against the bank, to protect it from frost ; but it is not safe to leave it in the banks where it grows, in any section of the country where the tem- perature gets lower than 10 degrees above zero. Perhaps the best way to keep Celery for family use is in a cool cellar. This can be done by storing it in narrow boxes, of a depth a little less than the height of the Celery. A few inches of sand or soil are placed in the bottom of the box, and the Celery is packed upright, the roots being placed on the sand at the bottom ; but no sand or anything else must be put between the stalks of the Celery, all that is needed being the damp sand on the bottom of the box, the meaning of which is, that before Celery will blanch or whiten, it must first start at the root ; hence the neces- sity of placing the roots on an inch or so of damp sand. Boxes thus packed and placed in a cool cellar in November, will be blanched fit for use during January, February, and March, though for succession it will be better to put it in the boxes, from the open ground, at three different times, say October 25th, November 10th, and November 20th. Or if the boxes are not at hand, the Celery may be put away on the floor of the cellar, in strips of eight or nine inches wide, divided by boards of a width equal to the height of the Celery. That is, if the Celery is two feet high, the boards separating it must be about the same height. The reason for dividing the Celery in these narrow strips by boards is to prevent heating, which would take place if placed together in too thick masses. The dates above given apply, of course, to the latitude of New York ; if further south, do the work later ; if further north, earlier. If one has no suitable cellar, the Celery can be very readily preserved in the manner followed by market gardeners. Thus, after ithas been " handled " or straight- ened up, as before described, what is intended for use by Christmas should be dug up about October 25th ; that to be used in January and February, by November 10th ; and that for March use, by November 20th, which latter date is as late as it can be risked here. Al- though it will stand quite a sharp frost, the weather by the end of November is often severe enough to kill it, or so freeze it in the ground that it cannot be dug up. The ground in which it is to be preserved for winter use CEL must be as dry as possible, and so arranged that no water can remain in the trench. Dig a trench as narrow as possible (if it should not be wider than ten inches), and of a depth equal to the height of the Celery; that is, if the plant of Celery be eighteen inches high, the trench should be dug eighteen inches deep. The Celery is then packed exactly in the manner described for storing in boxes to be placed in the cellar; that is, stand it as near upright as possible, and pack as closely together as can be done without bruis- ing it ; no soil or sand must be put between the stalks. As the weather becomes cold, the trenches should be gradually covered with leaves or litter to the thickness of six or eight inches, which will be enough to prevent severe freezing, and enable the roots to be taken out easily when wanted. Another method now practised by the market gardeners of New Jersey is as follows : before the approach of very cold weather — say the middle of Decem- ber— the Celery in the trenches is pressed somewhat closely together by passing a spade down deeply alongside of the trench on each side, but about three or four inches from the Celery. It is best done by two men, so that they press against each other, thus firming the top of the Celery in the trench until it is compact enough to sustain a weight of three or four inches of soil, which is taken from the sides of the trench and spread over the Celery. This earth covering keeps it rather fresher than the covering of litter, though on the ap- proach of cold weather the earth covering is not sufficient, and a covering of six or seven inches of leaves must yet be placed over the earth covering. From 200 to 500 roots are usually required for the use of an ordinary family. The vari- eties we recommend are the Golden Dwarf, Sandringham, Golden Self-blanching, "White Walnut, White Plume, and London Red. The peculiarity of the variety known as "White Plume" is that naturally its stalks and portions of its inner leaves are white, so that by closing the stalks, either by tying them up with matting, or by simply drawing the soil up against the plants and pressing it together with the hands, and again drawing up the soil with the hoe or plough, so as to keep the soil that has been squeezed against the Celery in its place, completes the work of blanching ; while it is well-known that in all other kinds of Celery, in addition to this, the slow and troublesome process of "banking" with the spade is a necessity. Another great merit of the "White Plume" Celery is that it far exceeds any known vegetable as an ornament for the table, the inner leaves being disposed somewhat like an ostrich feather, as to suggest the name we have given it of "White Plume." It is well known that one- half the value of a Celery, particularly in our best hotels and restaurants, is held to be its value as a table ornament, and for this purpose this new variety is admirably fitted. In addition to this, its eating qualities are equal to the very best of the older sorts, being crisp, solid and having a peculiar nutty flavor, peculiar to the "Walnut" and some of the red sorts; altogether we cannot find words sufficient to describe its many merits as it deserves. The great bugbear in the cultiva- tion of Celery, by those engaged in growing it 78 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS CEL for market, has been the labor entailed in the "banking" to whiten or blanch it; and with the unskilled amateur growing a few hundred for private use, the troublesome process of "banking" has usually been detriment suffi- cient to prevent him from trying. In the first week of October, of 1882, the Celery banks in Hudson Co., N. J., must have cost at least $10,000 in labor to erect ; but a rain storm of twenty-four hour's duration washed the banks down and destroyed the work of weeks. Had this new Celery been under process of blanch- ing, no high banks would have been needed and the storm would have been nearly harm- less, as the "wash" would have done but a trifling injury. But absolute perfection is hardly to be expected in anything, and the "White Plume" Celery has one drawback; the very qualities that make its culture so simple in the fall and early winter months, unfits it for a late Celery that will keep until spring, as its tenderness of structure causes it to rot quicker than the old green kinds ; but, to be used during the months of October, November, December and the early part of January, we advise it to be grown, if quality and the saving of labor is a consider- ation. It is equally as hardy against frost as the other kinds; in size and weight it is very similar to those popular kinds: the "Golden Dwarf " and "Half Dwarf "—in fact it originated in what is known as a "sport " from the " Half Dwarf ; " that is, a single plant showed the whiteness of stem and peculiar feathery leaves, which fortunately, permanent- ly reproduced itself from seed and gave us this entirely new type of Celery. Its culture is in all respects the same as that directed for the other sorts, with the exception that we are saved the trouble of high "banking." It is also we think, the earliest Celery in cultivation, and though fit to use long before other sorts, is found to keep nearly as well as the best of the older kinds, except perhaps the red which though comparatively new in cultivation in this country is fully equal if not superior in flavor and crispness to the white, and is de- cidedly more hardy and a much better keeper. A new variety known as the "Bouquet" Celery, with beautiful feathery foliage, intro- duced in 1888, is very useful for table decoration, as well as for all purposes for which Celery is used, as it is equally as good as any of the others. We are often asked for the cause of and remedy for Celery rusting or burning. The cause, we think, is the condition of the weather, which destroys the tender fibers, or what are called the working roots of the plant, for we find it is usually worse in seasons of extreme drought or moisture, particularly in warm weather. We know of no remedy, nor do we believe there is any. We may say, however that it is less liable to appear on new, fresh soils, that are free from acids or sourness, than on old soils that have been surfeited with manure, and have had no rest. Although, under ordinary conditions, if proper varieties of Celery are used, the crop should never be pithy or hollow, yet we have found that now and then even the most solid kinds of Celery have become more or less hollow when planted in soft, loose soils, such as reclaimed peat bogs, where the soil is mostly CEN composed of leaf mould. In fact, on heavy or clayey soils the Celery will be specifically heavier than on lighter soils. Cells. Cavities in the interior of a plant. The cells of tissue are those which form the interior of the elementary vesicles. Cells of the stem, air-cells, etc., are spaces organically formed by a peculiar building up of tissue for various vital purposes. Cellular System. That part of the plant which consists of cells or elementary vesicles. Celo'sia. From kelos, burnt; in reference to the burnt-like appearance of the flowers of some of the species. Nat. Ord. Amaranthacece. These are ornamental or curious plants. Only one or two species, however, are regarded as sufficiently ornamental to be included in ordinary collections. One of these, C. cristata, the common Cockscomb, is almost universally grown. To be grown well, the seed should be sown in March, in the green- house or hot-bed. As soon as the young plants can be handled safely, they should be placed singly in small pots, filled with the same kind of soil in which they are started. In these they should remain until symptoms of flowering appear, when they may be changed into larger pots or turned out into the border, where they should have a rich soil, such as loam and rotten manure, in equal parts ; then, with a liberal supply of liquid manure, flower-heads of enormous size will be obtained. It is on this account that small pots are recommended for the young plants up till the appearance of the flowers ; for if the roots be allowed much space at this period, the stem naturally increases in height without a compensating increase in the size of the " comb." This species was introduced from Asia in 1570, and from it florists have produced a great number of varieties. The other species differ from O. cristata in having large plumes of inflorescence, which form pyramidal masses of color. Many sorts have a graceful pendant habit, which renders them objects of great beauty. When well grown they are excellent subjects for table decora- tion, and also for the green-house, or for cut- ting during the autumn and early winter months. Ce'lsia. A small genus of Scrophulariads, con- sisting of hardy or half-hardy annuals or biennials. C. cretica. a hardy biennial, is the best known and by far the showiest of the species. As cultivated, it grows three to four feet in height, with a long terminal spike of large yellow blossoms, each of which arises from the axil of a small leaf or bract. A native of Crete. Introduced in 1752. Ce'ltis. Nettle Tree, Hack-berry, Sugar-berry. An ancient name for the Lotus. The fruit of the European Nettle Tree is supposed to have been the food of the Lotophagi. Nat. Ord. Urticaceai. A genus of hardy deciduous, low, or medi- um-sized trees, of an ornamental character. Several of the species and their varieties are common in the Southern and Western States, where they have received the various popular names above given. Ce'nchrus. Bur Grass, Hedge-hog Grass. From Kegchros, the Oriental name of the Millet. Nat. Ord. Graminacem. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 79 CEN C. tribuloides, the only species, is common on the sandy hills on the coast, or near salt water ; also near the great northern lakes. It is regarded as a troublesome weed, on account of its prickly burrs. Centa'urea. The classical name of a plant fabled by Ovid to have cured a wound in the foot of Chiron made by the arrow of Hercules. Nat. Ord. Composite. An extensive genus of hardy herbaceous perennial and annual plants, varying in height from one to five feet, and of nearly every shade of color from yellow to red, blue, or deep purple. As they continue to bloom for a long time, they are well suited for the margin of borders in the flower garden, and some of the dwarf species may be even admitted into beds. The perennial kinds grow in almost any description of soil, nor are the annuals more particular ; they merely require to be sown where they are to remain, being afterward thinned to the proper distances from each other. Centaurea cyanus, a native of Britain, is the Blue Bottle or Ragged Sailor of our gar- dens. C. candidissima and C. gymnocarpa are natives of the Levant, and are most valuable border plants, their leaves being heavily clothed on both sides with a white, downy covering, which gives them a striking aspect. Propagated by seed sown in January or Feb- ruary in a hot-bed. Centauri'dium. Origin of name unknown. Nat. Ord. Composite. The only species of this is C. Drummondi, a Texas plant, free-flowering, and succeeding well in a light soil. Color bright orange. A hardy annual, growing freely from seed. Syn. Xanthisma Texana. Ce'ntaury. Erythrcea centaurium. Centaury. American. A common name for the genus Sabattia. Centrade'nia. From kentron, a spur, and aden, a gland ; having spur-like glandular append- ages to its anthers. Nat. Ord. Melastomacece. Tropical undershrubs and herbaceous per- ennials, C. rosea and grandifolia, natives of Mexico, are moderate-sized, dwarf, spreading plants of easy growth, producing freely in spring close heads of pinkish-white flowers. They require the same treatment as the Fuchsia, and are increased from cuttings. Centra'nthus. Red Valerian. From kentron, a spur, and anthos, a flower; referring to the spur-like process at the base of the flower. Nat. Ord. Valerianacece. A small genus of hardy annuals from Gre- nada, and herbaceous perennials from the south of Europe. They are mostly of com- pact habit, free-flowering, and very pretty. The annuals are well adapted for rock-work or ribbon borders, and grow freely in common garden soil. Introduced in 1849. Centroclinium. A synonym for Onoseris, which see. Centropo'gon. From kentron, a spur, and pogon, a beard; in reference to the fringe which envelops the stigma. Nat. Ord. Lobeliacece. A small genus of very handsome herbaceous perennials from Surinam and Guatemala. One of the species bears edible fruit. C. tovariensis is a very beautiful plant for the green-house, having rosy-crimson flowers, similar in form CEP to the Lobelias, but of larger size, produced singly on short axillary peduncles. The most popular member of this genus is a hybrid between C. fastuosus and Syphocampylos betu- Icefolius, and known as C. Lucyanus. It has pretty rosy-carmine, tubular flowers, and from its flowering naturally during the dead of winter it is a most desirable plant. Raised by M. Desponds, of Marseilles, in 1856. They are increased by division or from seed. Centrose'ma. Spurred Butterfly Pea. A genus of Leguminosce, consisting of hardy and green- house twining perennial plants, with one exception confined almost exclusively to South America, and mostly to Brazil. The leaves are made up of three leaflets, rarely five or seven, the leaflets opposite and the terminal one rather distant. Some of the species pro- duce large and elegant pea-like flowers, singly or in axillary racemes ; colors, white, violet, rose or blue. C. Virginianum is widely distrib- uted, the species being common in dry, sandy woods from Maryland southward, also in Brazil and West Africa. All the species are increased readily from seed. Included by many botanists with Kennedya. Centroste'mma. A genus of tropical climbing shrubs, closely allied to Hoya. Century-plant. See Agave Americana. Cephae'lis. From kephale, a head ; in reference to the arrangement of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Rubiacece. Shrubs, rarely perennial herbs, mostly na- tives of Tropical America. C. Ipecacuanha pro- ducing the true Ipecacuanha belongs to this genus, and is a native of Brazil. It is a most ornamental and deciduous shrub, the root of which has been long used in medicine. It is in cultivation, and was introduced in 1839. Cephala'nthus. Button Bush. From kephale, a head, and anthos, a flower ; The flowers are disposed in globular heads. Nat. Ord. Rubi- acece. A small genus of hardy deciduous shrubs confined to North America, and common in marshy places from the Atlantic to the Pacific coasts, and from Maine to Florida. C. occidentalis, is a handsome bushy shrub, bearing numerous creamy white flowers, in round heads. Cephalota'xus. A small genus of Japanese Coniferse, resembling the Yew in general ap- pearance. C. Fortunei, the best known species, is a tree of medium size, rounded form, dark green foliage, and long, slender, drooping branches. Propagated by seeds or cuttings. Cephalo'tus. New Holland Pitcher Plant. From kephalotes, headed ; the filaments of its stamens are capitate. Nat. Ord. Saxifraga- ceoe. C. follicularis, the only species, is a native of swampy places in King George's Sound. It has a very short or contracted stem, with spoon-shaped stalked leaves, among which are mingled small pitcher-like bodies, placed on short, stout stalks, and closed at the top with lid s like the true Pitcher Plants (Nepen- thes). These pitchers are of a green color, spotted with yellow or brown, and provided with hairs. The flowers are white, small, and produced on a long spike. Propagated by offsets. Introduced in 1822. 80 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS CER Ceraceous. Wax-like. Cera'stium. Mouse-ear Chickweed. From keras, a horn ; because many of the species have capsules like an ox's horn. Nat. Ord. Caryophyllacece. Of this somewhat extensive genus only a few of the species are worthy of cultivation, but none of the annuals. Some of the hardy trailing species are quite ornamental when used for edgings or rock-work. C. tomentosum has greyish-white foliage, and is largely em- ployed as an edging to summer flower beds, and as a ground-work in carpet bedding. Pro- pagated by division of the roots or by seeds. Cera'sus. Cherry. From Cerasus, a town of Pontus, in Asia, whence the Cherry was brought to Rome by Lucullus. Nat. Ord. Rosacece. A genus of hardy deciduous trees and shrubs, the species and varieties including some of our most ornamental trees for the lawn, as well as highly prized fruit trees for the orchard. The numerous varieties of cul- tivated Cherries are supposed to have origin- ated from C. avium and C. vulgaris. Those belonging to C. avium are best represented by the Bigarreau and Black Heart varieties ; those of C. vulgaris by the May Duke and Morello. Both of these species appear to be natives of Europe, although Pliny states that there were no Cherries in Italy before the victory obtained over Mithridates by Lucul- lus, who was, according to the above author, the first who brought them to Rome from Cerosante about sixty-eight years before the Christian era. It is also stated by the same authority, that " in less than 120 years after, other lands had Cherries, even as far as Britain beyond the ocean." Theophrastus, 300 years B. O, mentions the Cherry as being common in Greece, from which some writers contend that the name of the city was de- rived from the tree, instead of the tree from the town or city. The Cherry-tree begins to bear usually in two or three years after plant- ing trees of the size sold at the nurseries, and continues to enlarge in growth and pro- ductiveness annually, until it often attains a larger size than most of our fruit-trees. It grows freely in almost any soil that is free from moisture, preferring, however, like most other fruits, a deep loamy soil. The tree may be trained as desired, either in pyramidal form or with a round top, by pruning and directing the shoots. They are now worked extensively on the Mahaleb stock. Many varieties being found to be more hardy on it, and it is adapted to a greater variety of soil. The following are good varieties (for descrip- tion see nursery catalogues) : Black Tartarian, Coe's Transparent, Downer's Late, May Duke, Kirtland's Mary, Rockport, Yellow Spanish, Late Duke, and Morello. The well-known Wild Cherry of our woods is C. serotina. The common double Cherry and the French double Cherry deserve a place in every garden ; and equally so do the Chinese Cherry, C. p8eudo-cerasus ; the All-Saints' Cherry, C. semperfiorens ; the Bird Cherry, C. padus; and the Virginian Bird or Choke Cherry, C. Virginiana. Cerato'nia. Carob Tree. From keras, a horn ; in reference to the shape of the seed-pod. Nat. Ord. Legummosa. CER C. siliqua, the only species, is a tree of medium size, growing extensively in the south of Europe, particularly in some of the Spanish provinces, and produces a fruit known as the Algoroba or Carob Bean, which is an import- ant article of commerce. It is chiefly used for the feeding of cattle, but is largely used by the poor for food when there is a scarcity of grain. This is generally considered the Locust Tree of Scripture ; and in Spain, where the seeds are eaten, it is called St. John's Bread. Under this name the pods are often sold on the streets in New York. It is now generally supposed that the shells of the Carob pod were the husks that the prodigal son desired to partake of with the swine. Cerato'pteris. A peculiar genus of tropical aquatic Ferns, found growing in quiet waters. The fronds are much divided, membranaceous, and succulent, the sterile ones being more foliaceous and less divided, with evident reticulated veins. C. thalictroides is the only species, and when well grown in water, forms a handsome plant and is not inaptly called the Floating Stag's-horn Fern. Ceratoste'ma. From keras, a horn, and sterna, a stamen ; the anthers are spurred. Nat. Ord. Vacciniacew. A small genus of very pretty green-house evergreen shrubs, natives of Peru. The flowers are tubular, of orange, crimson, or scarlet color, produced in terminal clusters in May. Propagated by cuttings. Introduced in 1846. Ceratosti'gma plumbaginoides. This is now given as the correct name of Valoradia plum- baginoides, better known in cultivation as Plumbago Larpenlaz. Ceratoza'mia. A genus of Cycadaceai, deriving its name from the presence of two horns on the scales of its Zamia-like fruit. C.fusco- viridis is a magnificent plant of recent intro- duction from Mexico. It is a tree of moderate size, with leaves from three to four feet long, broadly pinnate, and of a fine arching habit. The young leaves are of a rich, bronzy, choco- late color, gradually changing to olive green, and ultimately developing into deep green. Young plants are obtained by suckers or from seed. Cercidiphy'llum Japonicum. A late and valu- able introduction from Japan. The leaves are medium sized, heart-shaped and purple when young, like those of the Judas Tree. The flowers are inconspicuous. The shape of the tree is pyramidal, bark smooth and as a whole, is a stately and beautiful object. Ce'rcis. Judas Tree. From kerkis, a shuttle- cock ; the name given by Theophrastus. Nat. Ord. LeguminoscB. A genus of handsome, low-growing trees, with singular leaves and very showy flowers. The flowers have an agreeable acid taste, and are frequently used by the French in salads, or made into fritters with batter, and the flower buds are pickled in vinegar. It is an orna- mental tree in spring as the flowers completely clothe the branches and even the upper part of the trunk with purple before the leaves appear. C. siliquastrum is a native of the south of Europe, and of which Gerarde, in com- pliance with the popular notions of his time, says : *' This is the tree whereon Judas did AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 81 CER hang himself ; and not upon the Elder Tree, as it is said." (Herbal, 1596.) C. Canadensis, a native species, is common on the banks of streams from Canada to Louisiana. C. Japon- ica, from Japan, is a very dwarf tree or shrub, with bright rosy-pink flowers, much larger than C. Canadensis, and exceedingly beautiful in early spring. Ce'reus. Torch Thistle. From cereus, waxy; referring to the shoots of some of the species being easily bent. Nat. Ord. Cactaceaz. An extensive genus, the species of which are remarkable for their singularity of form, and for the beauty of their flowers. Few classes present greater contrasts. Some are round, some angular, some smooth, and others fluted. Some are climbers or creepers, while others grow like huge trees, attaining a height of sixty feet, with a diameter of two or three feet. The night-blooming section is very interesting and beautiful, C. grandiflorus, the type, usually requires age to flower well. A strong plant will frequently have six to ten exceedingly large and beautiful sweet-scented flowers open in an evening. They are very transient, lasting only a few hours, neither do they open again when once closed. They begin to open between six and eight o'clock in the evening, are fully expanded by eleven, and by three or four in the morning they are closed; but during their short continu- ance there is scarcely any flower of greater beauty, or that makes a more magnificent appearance. The flowers of the night-bloom- ing section vary in size from six to fourteen inches in diameter, according to the species, C MacDonaldi, being the largest, and some- times measuring fourteen to sixteen inches. The sepals in some are brown, in others brownish-yellow, and in others again pinkish- brown. The petals in some are pale, yellow- ish-white, and in others pure white. The stamen are usually a bright yellow. Some are sweet-scented, others the reverse, while some are odorless, but all are beautiful. The flowers of the day-blooming section are usually small, but very bright and pretty. For other night-blooming kinds, see Phyllo- cactus. Ceriferous. Bearing, or producing wax. Ceri'nthe. Honeywort. From keros, wax, and anthos, a flower; referring to its being a favorite flower with bees. Nat. Ord. Boragin- acece. A small genus of hardy annuals, common in Central Europe. One species, a native of the south of France, is a hardy perennial. The annuals have long been cultivated in gardens, under the name of Honeywort. They have tubular, yellow flowers, in one-sided droop- ing racemes. They sow themselves when once planted, and require but little care. Cernuous. Inclining a little from the per- pendicular; generally applied to drooping flowers. Cerope'gia. A genus of Asclepediacea, contain- ing over fifty specijs, usually twining, some- times erect perennial plants, often with tuberous roots ; remarkable for the peculiar shape and marking of the flowers. C. elegans, has been long in cultivation, but is surpassed by C. Gardnerii, with creamy white and purple flowers, and C. Thwaitesii, with yellow flowers CHA beautifully sprinkled with dark blood-red spots. The two latter are comparatively late introductions from Ceylon, and are elegant green-house twiners. Cero'xylon. Wax Palm. From keros, wax, and xylon, wood ; the trunk being coated with wax. Nat. Ord. PalmacecB. A small genus of Palms, consisting of three species, two of which are handsome trees of great size. C. andicola, the Wax Palm of New Grenada, was discovered by the cele- brated traveler, Humboldt, who describes the tree as attaining the prodigious height of 160 feet, while it differs from other species of Palms in flourishing under a much colder temperature, it being found on elevated moun- tains, extending as high as the lower limit of perpetual snow. Its tall trunk is covered with a thin coating of a whitish waxy sub- stance, giving it a marbled appearance. This substance, which forms an article of com- merce, consists of two parts resin and one of wax and is obtained by scraping the trunk. It is mixed with tallow and made into candles, which are of superior quality. The trunk yields a valuable timber, used for building purposes, and the leaves are used for thatch- ing roofs. Propagated from seed. Ce'strum. From Kestron, an ancient Greek name. Nat. Ord. Solanacece. Green-house shrubs, natives of the East Indies and South America. C. Parqui, syn. C. noctumum, frequently called the Night- Blooming Jasmine, is a much esteemed species, which flowers abundantly all sum- mer, if planted in the open air in May, and fills the whole garden with its fragrance at night, though perfectly inodorous during the day. It should be taken up in autumn, and if kept in a box or pot, rather dry, may be easily preserved in a warm cellar until spring. C. aurantiacum, with large panicles of orange- colored flowers, is an excellent plant for early winter green-house decoration. Some au- thors include Habrothamnus under this genus. Ce'terach. From Chetherak, the Arabic name. Nat. Ord. Polypodiaceaz. A small genus of Ferns, somewhat resem- bling the Aspleniums. C. officinarum, the Scale Fern, is an interesting species, suitable for rock- work, but impatient of much water, as are all of the species. Both the hardy and green-house species are valuable in collec- tions. They are natives of Great Britain and the Canary Islands. Chaeno'stoma. A considerable genus of herbs and under-shrubs, belonging to Scrophula- riacece, and natives of South Africa. C. hispida is a dwarf shrubby species with white axillary flowers produced in great abundance all the season. Propagated by seeds or cuttings. Chaerophy'llum Bulbosum. Bulbous rooted Chervil. See Anthriscus. Chaerophy'llum Sativum. A synonym of An- thriscus cerefolium (Chervil). Chain Pern. See Woodwardia. Chamaeba'tia. From chamai, on the ground, dwarf, and batos, a bramble ; referring to its low growth and bramble-like flowers. Nat. Ord. Rosacea. C. foliosa, the only representative of this genus, is a beautiful Californian shrub, about three feet high. The leaves are very finely 82 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS CHA divided, resembling those of the Millfoil (Achillea), but of a much harsher texture, and having a pleasant balsamic odor. The flowers are white, in terminal cymes, very much like those of the Hawthorn. Chamaecla'don. From chamai, dwarf, and kladon, a branch ; in allusion to the habit of the species. Nat. Ord. Aroidece. A genus of stove-house plants, natives of tropical Asia, and the Malayan Archipelago. C. metallicum, the only species yet in cultiva- tion is a grand arad, of close tufted growth, with ovate leaves of a rich, deep bronzy-green color. Introduced from Borneo in 1884. Chamaecy'paris. From chamai, dwarf, and kwparissos, Cypress ; The Bastard, or Dwarf Cypress. White Cedars. Nat. Ord. Coniferm. A genus ranking extremely close to Cu- pressus, the principal distinction between the two, being the more numerous ovules beneath the fertile scales of the latter. Like most of the other genera belonging to this order this one is overloaded with synonyms, scarcely any two authorities agreeing as to the correct generic name. Many species of Cupressus, and Retinospora, are placed under this genus by some botanists. Chamaedo'rea. From chamai, dwarf, and dorea, a gift ; referring to the nuts of this Palm being easily reached. Nat. Ord. Palmacew. A genus of Palms containing about forty species, common in Mexico and South America. C. Ernesti-Augusti is a small species, a native of New Grenada. It grows from four to five feet high, with wedge-shaped leaves about two feet long. The female flower spikes of this species, which are very beautiful, are about a foot long, cylindrical, and undivided. At first they are of a dark green color, studded with red, bead-like flowers. After these fall away, the spike be- comes a bright coral-red color. Several of the species are interesting green-house plants, and are readily grown from seed. Chamaeli'rium. Devils-bit. C. luteum, the only species, is a Liliaceous plant, nearly allied to Helonias, and is not uncommon in low grounds from western New York to Illinois. It is a smooth herb with a bitter, thick, and ab- ruptly-tuberous root-stock, and a tall, erect stem, terminated by a long spiked raceme of small white bractless flowers. Known popu- larly as Blazing Star. Chamaepe'uce. From chamai, dwarf, and peuke, a pine ; resemblance. Nat. Ord. Composite. A genus of uninteresting plants, annuals, perennials, and biennials, common through - out Europe. Of the entire genus, the only two deserving attention are C. Casabonce, and C. diacantha. Both of these are effective for sub-tropical gardening, growing in compact rosette-like patches and not producing flower stems until the second year. Chamee'iops. From chamai, dwarf, and rhops, a twig ; most of the species being dwarf. Nat. Ord. Palmaceai. A genus of low-growing Palms, including several species, some growing as far north as the Carolinas. The Palmetto State furnishes 0. Palmetto, hence the name. Many of the species are half-hardy, and all make beautiful plants for lawn decoration. They make a rapid growth in summer if given a rich loam, CHE and liberal applications of liquid manure. They are increased by seed. Chamisso'a. A genus of Amaranthacece, now included in Achyranthes, which see. Chamomile. The popular name of Anthemis nobilis. Chara'ceae. A small natural order of Acrogens, consisting of two, or at most three, genera. The species are all aquatic, and are found in almost all parts of the world, but they are most common in temperate countries. The species are either monoecious or dioecious, the two kinds of fruit being often seated close to each other. Cha'ries Heterophylla. Given by some authors as the correct name of Kaulfussia amelloides. Charlock. The common name of Sinapis arven- sis, a well-known weed. Cheat, or Chess. See Bromu8. Checkerberry. See Gaultheria. Cheila'nthes. Lip Fern. From cheilos, a lip, • and anthos, a flower ; in reference to the form of the indusium. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacem. An extensive genus of Ferns, found scat- tered over nearly all parts of the world. There are several species found in most parts of the United States. Some of the tropical species are exceedingly pretty, among which C. fari- nosa, a native of the Island of Luzon, has ivory-black stems, the fronds being dark green above, and of a pure white beneath, caused by a powdery substance, which has given this species the popular name of Silver Fern. Many other species are in cultivation ; C. hirta, lanuginosa, viscosa, Ellisii, and many others being particularly desirable. They are prop- agated from spores, or by division of the roots when just commencing to grow. Cheira'nthus. Wallflower. From cheir, the hand, and anthos, a flower ; in reference to the custom of carrying the Wallflower in the hand for a nosegay. Nat. Ord. Cruciferm. Well-known herbaceous plants, much prized for the delightful odor of their flowers, which are produced from April to July. C. Cheiri, the common Wallflower, is generally grown, and is a great favorite in English gardens, where it flowers freely. Our climate does not suit it so well as that of England, as it delights in a moist atmosphere. The fine double varieties are increased by cuttings, and should be grown in a cool house, in a strong, rich loam. Most of the species are from southern Europe, and have been grown for centuries. Chelido'nium. Celandine, Swallow-wort. From Chelidon, a swallow ; it is said that the plant flowers at the time of the arrival of the swal- lows, and dries up at their departure. Nat. Ord. Papaveracem. C. majus, the only species, is a perennial herb, abounding in an acrid, saffron-colored juice. It is a common plant in waste places. Chelo'ne. Shell-flower. From chelone, a tor- toise ; the back of the helmet of the flower being fancifully compared to a tortoise. Nat. Ord. Scrophulariaceoj. Most of the genus are hardy herbaceous perennial plants, common in moist places westward. The flowers are white, rose-color, or purple, their singular beauty entitling them to a place in every collection. They succeed well in ordinary garden soil, and are AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 83 CHE propagated by division of the roots and by- seed. Chenopodia'ceae. A natural order of herbs or under-shrubs, generally inconspicuous plants, but including some valuable species used as pot-herbs. Spinach, Spinacia oleracea, and Beet, Beta vulgaris, are examples. There are seventy-four known genera, and over 500 species in this order. Chenopodium. From chen, a goose, and pous, a foot ; in allusion to the shape of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Chenopodiacem. An extensive genus, many of the species being troublesome weeds, the more common being G. album, the Pig- weed ; C. glaucum, Goose-foot ; and C. Ambro- soides, Mexican Tea. The stems of che Mercury Goose-foot or Good King Henry, are still used in some parts of England as a substitute for Asparagus, while the leaves are used while young instead of Spinach. Cherimoyer. See Anona Cherimolia. Cherokee Rose. See Rosa laevigata. Cherry. See Cerasus. Barbadoes. Malphigia glabra. Bird. Cerasus padus. Choke. Cerasus Virginiana. Cornelian. Cornus mas. Laurel. Prunus Laurocerasus. Plum. Prunus cerasifera. Winter. Physalis Alkekengi. Cherry-Pepper. Capsicum cerasiforme. Chervil. See Anthriscus. Chervil. Tuberous rooted, or Turnip. Chmro- phyllum bulbosum. Chess. See Bromus. Chestnut. The common name for Castanea vesca. Earth. Bunium flexuosum and Conopodium denudatum. Horse. ^SJsculus Hippocastanum. Spanish or Sweet. Castanea vesca. Water. Trapa natans. Chestnut-oak. Quercus Prinus, and Q. Castanea. Chick Pea. See Cicer. Chick Weed. Stellaria media. Mouse-ear. Cerastium vulgatum. Water. Montia fontana. Chicory. See Cichorium Intybus. Chili Pepper. A common name for Capsicum oaccatum. Chilo'psis. From cheilos, a lip, and opsis, like : referring to the irregular lobes of the corolla. Nat. Ord. Bignoniacece. C. linearis, the only species, is a native of Mexico ; it is an erect branching shrub, with long alternate leaves, producing beautiful rose-colored flowers in terminal dense spicate racemes. It is but rarely met in green-house collections. It was introduced in 1825, and is propagated by cuttings. Chima'phila. From cheima, winter, and phileo, .to love; these little plants remaining green all winter. Nat. Ord. Ericaceae. A small genus of pretty little native, hardv. trailing, evergreen plants, commonly known as . Pipsissewa and Spotted Winterqreen, the latter name being applied to C. maculata, one Zl??J ???* beauxtiful native plants with varie- gated foliage. It is common in dry woods CHI throughout the Middle States, but is very diffi- cult of cultivation in the garden. Chimona'nthus. Japan Allspice. From cheimon, winter, and anthos, a flower ; referring to the time of flowering. Nat. Ord. Calycanthacece. C. fragrans, the only species is a native of Japan, and is remarkable for the fragrance of its flowers, which appear in early spring, be- fore the leaves begin to unfold. It is a slen- der, much branched shrub, with flowers about an inch in diameter, made up of a large number of pale yellow waxy petals, arranged in several rows, either yellowish-red or choco- late-colored, and which last for a long time. In this latitude it requires a sheltered position. China Aster. See Callistephus. Chinese Bell-flower. See Abutilon. Chinese Grass-cloth Plant. See Baehmeria. Chinese Hawthorn. See Photina. Chinese Primrose. See Primula. Chinese Rose. Hibiscus rosa-sinensis. Chinese Sugar-cane. See Sorghum. Chi'nquapin. Castanea pumila, the most palat- able of all the Chestnut family ; indigenous to the Middle Atlantic States. Water. See Nelumbium luteum. Chiona'nthus. Fringe Tree. From chion, snow, and anthos, a flower ; in reference to its long racemes of pure white flowers. Nat. Ord. Oleacem. A genus of hardy deciduous shrubs. C. Virginica, one of the best known, and com- monly grown under the popular name of Fringe Tree, is a very ornamental shrub of easy cultivation, particularly adapted for the lawn, not only for its showy flowers in spring, but for its deep green glossy foliage, which) under favorable circumstances, will equal in size that of the Magnolia grandiflora, retain- ing its freshness until late in the autumn. This species is a native of Pennsylvania and southward, and is readily propagated from seeds or cuttings. It succeeds best when grafted on the common ash, being much more vigorous, and will attain a height of twenty- five feet. Chio'nodo'xa. Glory of the Snow. From chion, snow, and doxa, glory; in reference to the plants flowering among the melting snows of their native habitats. A small genus of hardy IAliacem. C. ImcUIoj, which has lately been reintroduced, is praised by all as one of the most exquisite of spring flowering plants. It is also valuable for winter blooming in the house and for cut flowers. Native of Asia Minor and Crete. Chionogra'phis. From chion, snow, and graphis, a pencil ; the flower spike being like a brush of snow. Nat. Ord. Liliacew. A very ornamental herbaceous perennial, with pure white flowers. Introduced from Japan, in 1880. It requires a slight protec- tion outside in winter, and is propagated by seeds or divisions of the roots. Chiri'ta. A small genus of Gesneracece, natives of tropical Asia. The flowers of C. lilacina are very beautiful and are produced in great abundance; color pale blue with a white throat, ornamented with a large yellow blotch at the base. G. sinensis is also a very fine species. Culture similar to Gloxinia. 84 HENDEKSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS CHI Chiro'nia. A classical name, after Chiron, one of the Centaurs, fabled to be the father of medicine. Nat. Ord. Gentianaceos. Green-house plants of short duration, and, consequently, requiring to be frequently raised from cuttings, which strike freely in sand. C. floribunda, with rose-colored flowers, and its variety, with white flowers, are the most desirable, and, with other species, are frequently raised from Cape seeds, the plants being all indigenous to the Cape of Good Hope. Introduced in 1756. Chives. The popular name of Allium Schozno- prasum, the smallest of the Onion family, though one of the finest flavored. It is a hardy herbaceous perennial, native of Siberia, and of the easiest culture, growing freely in almost any soil or situation. Propagated by division, either in spring or autumn. Chlida'nthus. From chlideios, delicate, and anthos, a flower ; alluding to the delicate tex- ture of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. C. fragrans, the only species, a pretty, bulbous-rooted plant, which may be grown in the flower garden during the summer, when its bright yellow flowers are highly interest- ing. In winter it requires the same treatment as the Gladiolus. It is propagated freely by offsets, which should all be removed before planting, to enable the bulb to flower well. Introduced from Buenos Ayres in 1820. Chlo'ris. From chloros, green ; alluding to the color of the herbage. Nat. Ord. Graminacece. A very extensive genus of grasses, including a few desirable species for the green-house. Among them is C. radiata, a pretty little annual species, with beautiful one-sided spikes of silky flowers, which give it a very curious appearance. There are several other species under cultivation, all useful for basket and similar work. Chloro'galum. Soap-plant. From chloros, green, and gala, milk ; referring to their green juice. Nat. Ord. Liliacem. A genus of distinct, hardy bulbs, containing three species, all natives of California. C. pomeridianum has branched, panicled stems, with white, purplish-veined flowers^ opening only after mid-day, whence its specific name, meaning "afternoon." The bulbs are some- times used in California as a substitute for soap. Syns. Phalangium pomeridianum, and Omithogalum divaricatum. Chloro'phora. From chloros, greenish, and phoreo, to bear; alluding to the economic properties of C. tinctoria. Nat. Ord. Urti- caceai. A small genus of milky trees, consisting of two species, one native of tropical Asia, and the other of tropical Africa. C. tinctoria, the Fustic Tree, yields yellow, brown, olive, and green dyes. Syn. Maclura tinctoria. Chlo'rosis. A disease to which plants are sub- ject, and often admitting no cure. It consists in a pallid condition of the plant, in which the tissues are weak and unable to contend against severe changes, and the cells are more or less destitute of chlorophyl. It is distinct from blanching, as it is also from the white color in ornamental-leaved plants, of which, how- ever, it may be a modification. Plants may be affected by chlorosis as soon as the cotyl- edons make their appearance. The best cul- CHO ture will not always restore such plants to health. The most promising remedy is to water them with a very weak solution of sul- phate of iron. An example of this condition is to be found in cases where the variegated leaves of Pelargoniums, etc., run to pure white without any green. In all such cases death is certain to ensue, unless the leaves again become more or less green. Chloro'xylon. Satin-wood. From chloros, greenish-yellow, and xylon, wood. Nat. Ord. MeliaceoB. C. Swietenia, the Satin-wood tree of the East Indies, attains a large size, and is a valuable timber tree. The wood is very handsome, light-colored, with a satin-like lustre, and sometimes beautifully mottled or curled in the grain, bearing some resemblance to box- wood, but rather deeper in color. The best kind of satin-wood, however, comes from the West Indies, and is the produce of a different tree, of which we have no description. Chocolate. See Theobroma. Choi'sya. Named after M. Choisy, a botanist of Geneva. Nat. Ord. Rutacem. C. ternata, the only species, is a handsome white-flowered, sweet-scented shrub, growing about six feet high, quite hardy in the Southern States. It is a native of Mexico, an evergreen, and will succeed well with ordinary green- house treatment. It is increased by cuttings. Introduced in 1825. Choke-Berry. The popular name of the fruit of the Pyrus arbutifolia, a common shrub from two to ten feet high, found in damp thickets. Choke Cherry. See Cerasus Virginiana. Choko. See Sechium. Chondri'lla. From choncbros, a lump ; the plants bear lumps of gummy matter on the stems. Nat. Ord. Composites. A genus of mostly uninteresting plants al- lied to Lactuca (Lettuce). C.juncea, a native of southern Europe, has escaped from the garden and become naturalized in some of the Southern States. It is a straggling, many- branched plant, and almost destitute of leaves when in flower. There are more than twenty species included in this genus, mostly weedy plants. Chore'tis. From choros, to unite in chorus ; this genus being an intermediate link between Hymenocallis and Ismene. Nat. Ord. Amarylli- dace&. An interesting genus of half-hardy bulbs from Texas and Mexico, requiring a rest from November until May. They grow freely in a light, sandy soil in the open border, or they may be grown in pots in the green-house, and for this purpose they should be started in March in a cool house, heat and water to be increased with their growth. The flowers are very beautiful, pure white, with a green eye and a greenish stripe. Propagated by division of the bulbs. Chori'zema. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. This interesting green-house plant was first discovered in Western Australia by Labillar- diere. This botanist was attached to the ex- pedition sent by the French Government in search of the lost La Perouse, and on one of his excursions suffered much, with his party, for the want of water. At last they met with CLARK) A CHELONF. BARBATA C3I0N0D0XA L.VCILLM CHAM^PEUCE DIACANTHA. CHRYSANTHEMUMS (CHINESE). CHRYSANTHEMUMS (JAfANESE). CHRYSANTHEMUM (MRS. ALPHEUS HARDY). CHRYSANTHEMUM (ANEMONE FLOWERED) CINERARIA MAR1TIMA. CHRYSANTHEMUM (SINGLE ANNUAL). CINERARIA HYBRIDA. 85 AND GENEKAL HORTICULTURE. 85 CHE springs that furnished an ample supply, near which he found this plant, which he named Chorizema, from choros, a dance, and zema, a drink ; in allusion to the joyful feelings of the party on meeting with a supply of water. Of this really beautiful genus there are many species; the one most commonly met is G. varium, a rapid-growing and free-flowering kind. The flowers are of a bright orange red color, in long terminal racemes, flowering through the winter months. It is readily propagated by cuttings, which should be taken in February, and grown in small pots until the weather is suitable for planting out, as they should be grown in the border during summer. Before there is danger from frost, take up and pot in five-inch pots, in good rich loam and sand. Cut well back, and give it a warm, sunny situation, with liberal watering as soon as the new growth commences. It will begin to bloom in eight to ten weeks. Christinas Rose. Helleborus niger. Christopher Herb. Actcea spicata and Osmunda regalia. Christ's Thorn. Crataegus Pyracantha and Paliurus aculeatus. Chrysa'nthemum. From chrysos, gold, and anthos, a flower ; alluding to the color of some of the flowers being yellow. Nat. Ord. Composite. A large and important genus of herbaceous or slightly shrubby plants, of which the Ox- eye Daisy of our fields is a well known repre- sentative. Many species have been introduced from various countries of which C. grandi- fiorum from the Canary Islands, and C. pin- natifidum from Madiera, are of a shrubby habit, and flower during a large portion of the year. G. frutescens is " the Marguerite " or Paris Daisy of the florists, the flowers of which and others of a similar description are largely used in floral decorations. The variety " Etoile d' Or," and the double yellow sort called the "Golden Marguerite," are also very popular and are good subjects for the flower border in summer. C. coronarium from the Levant and G. carinatum called also G. tricolor, from Barbary, and their many va- rieties, are very ornamental border annuals. The species, however, which holds so high a rank, and with reason, among florists' flowers is C. sinense the Chinese Chrysanthemum, the value of which as an ornament of the flower- garden, the green-house or conservatory in the autumnal months, is well known and duly appreciated. Their cultivation is exceedingly simple. If wanted to flower only in the open ground, all that is necessary is to plant them in the open border in any good ground, well enriched with-manure. If possible, plant them in a warm sheltered spot, particularly in any section north of Baltimore, as, being the latest of all flowers of autumn, a better development will be had if planted in a place sheltered by a fence, hill or shrubbery. As they are usually grown in pots, they can be planted out any time from April to July, though preference may be given to May. They form an average width by October of two feet in diameter, if the tops are pinched off so as to make them bushy; they should be set out at about two feet apart each way. The "topping" or "pinching" back, as it is called, should not be done CHR later than 1st of August, if much later it might destroy the flowering to some extent. When wanted to be grown for green-house or house culture, the best plan for amateurs is to put each plant when received in a flower pot six, seven or eight inches wide and deep ; plunge these pots to the rims in the open ground, level with the soil, treating exactly the same as recommended for planting in the open border, by pinching, etc. Care should, however, be taken to turn the flower pots round every eight or ten days, so as to prevent the roots getting through the bottom of the pot, the object being to confine the whole roots within the pot. This same plan is the best for amateurs who cultivate any kind of plant to grow in the house or green-house in winter. The large flowers which are seen at the exhibitions are obtained by pinching off all the buds but one on each shoot, just as soon as the buds can be seen; "disbudded," as it is called, in this way, many kinds of Chrysanthemum flowers can be obtained six to nine inches in diameter. This is the method used to obtain all the fine flowers seen at the Exhibitions. It is deceiving, how- ever, to those unacquainted with the plan, because a flower so obtained showing six or seven inches in diameter, if grown with half a dozen flowers on the same spray, would not be half the size. Hence amateurs who have selected special kinds from the cut flower tables at Exhibitions, must not be disappoint- ed at finding them half the size when they flower, unless they use the same process of disbudding to obtain large flowers. The Chrysanthemum is classed by growers into the following sections : Incurved, Ra- nunculus flowered or Exhibition, Recurved or Reflex-flowered, Anemone or Quilled-Aster flowered, Pompone, Small Reflexed or Chusan, Daisy-flowered, Quilled or Pin-feathered Jap- anese, and Large-flowered Japanese, in all of which there are many beautiful varieties. Chrysanthus. Yellow flowered. Chryse'is. A name sometimes given to Esch- scholtzia. Chrysoba'ctron. From chrysos, gold, and bac~ tron, a wand ; alluding to the magnificent racemes of C. Rossii. Nat. Ord. IAliacexz. This is a small genus from the Auckland and Campbell Islands, New Zealand, closely allied to Anthericum. They are found growing in marshy places, and vill only succeed well with pot culture. The soil should be a fibrous loam, and the pots in which they are grown should be partly immersed in water. The flowers are bright yellow, produced in racemes, and are very beautiful. Propagated by division of the roots. Introduced in 1848. Chrysoba'lanus. From chrysos, gold, and balanos, an acorn ; in reference to the yellow fruit of some of the species. Nat. Ord. Rosa- cea. A genus of stove or green-house shrubs, with simple leaves and white flowers borne in panicles ; fruit edible. Natives of Florida. Chryso'gonum. From chrysos, gold, and gonu, a knee, or joint; the flowers are generally produced at the joints of the stem. Nat. Ord. Composite. C. Virginianum, the typical species and probably the only one in cultivation, is found in the Western States from Illinois south- HENDEESON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS CHE ward. It is a very pretty, hardy perennial, with yellow flowers, well worth a place in every herbaceous border. Chrysophy'llum. Star Apple. From chrysos, sold, and phyllon, a leaf; referring to the color of the underside of the leaves. Nat. Ord. SapotacecB. A genus of ornamental leaved evergreen trees. C. imperiale, a very showy and desira- ble species, is best known in cultivation as Theophrasta imperialis. Chryso'psis. From chrysos, gold, and opsis, aspect; in allusion to the golden blossoms. Nat. Ord. Composites. _ A genus of hardy annual or perennial JNorth American plants, a greater portion of the species having all their parts covered with villous or silky hairs. C. Mariana grows about two feet high, and is quite ornamental when in flower. C. villosa, with numerous yellow flower heads half an inch in diameter, is said to be one of the commonest plants on the prairies of the Saskatchawan. Chrysu'rus. From chrysos, gold, and oura, a tail ; alluding to the compact heads of flowers. Nat. Ord. Graminaceaz. ' A small genus of annual grasses, natives pi the south of Europe and north of Africa. 6. aurea, the only species of interest, is a very ornamental border plant of free growth, and is very useful for cutting. Native of the south of Europe and north of Africa. Syn. Lamarkia. Chufa, or Earth Almond. Cyperus esculentus. A species of earth-nut used to fatten hogs, not to be confounded with Cocoa or Nut-grass, for though it belongs to the same class, Chufa is eradicated with great ease, and is never a pest. The nuts or tubers are larger and more elongated, and are very sweet and nutritious. Chy'sis. From chysis, melting ; in reference to the fused appearance of the pollen masses. Nat. Ord. Orchidacea. A genus of very handsome Orchids, natives of Central America. The flowers are mostly white, or ereamy white, heavily tipped with pink, the lip being beautifully marked with carmine and yellow. C. aurea maculata, has golden yellow flowers, with a large orange spot; lip white, with violet rays. When m a growing state they require liberal heat and moisture, and a cool, dry house when at rest. Thev are increased by division just as they commence a new growth. Introduced m 1830. Cibo'tium. From kibotion, a small box ; refer- ring to the form of the spore vessels. Nat. Ord. Polypodiaceaz. . A small genus of very interesting Ferns re- lated to Dicksonia. They are large and very handsome, and in some cases arborescent. The fronds are bi-pinnate, and often glaucous beneath. C. Barometz is believed to be the Tartarian Lamb, about which travelers have told so wonderful a tale. This " Lamb con- sists merely of the decumbent, shaggy caudex of a kind of Fern, which is unquestionably this species. The " traveler's tale " is. that on an uncultivated salt plain of vast extent, west of the Volga, grows a wonderful plant, with the appearance of a lamb, having feet, head, and tail distinctly formed, and its skin covered with soft down. The lamb grows upon a stalk about three feet high, the part by which it is CIC sustained being a kind of navel. It turns about and bends to the herbage, which serves for its food, and pines away when the grass dries up and fails. The fact on which this tale is based appears to be, that the caudex of this plant may be made to present a rude ap- pearance of an animal covered with silky, hair-like scales, and if cut into is found to have a soft inside of a reddish, flesh-colored appearance. When the herbage of its native haunts fails through drought, its leaves no. doubt die, and both perish from the same cause, and independently of each other. From these appearances, the common people believe that in the deserts of Scythia there exist creatures half animal and half plant. The species are very interesting plants for the green-house, the fructification on the large bi-pinnate fronds being remarkably pretty. They are propagated by division, and by spores. Introduced in 1824. Ci'cer. Chick-pea. Egyptian Pea. Frovakykis, force or strength ; in reference to its qualities. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. , A genus of leguminous plants, consisting ot annuals, perennials and undershrubs, form- ing one portion of the Vetch tribe. Some of the species are included in the genus Astragalus, by some botanists. C. arietinum, commonly known as OhicR, pea or Egyptian pea, is an annual plant- growing about a foot or more in height, a native of the south of Europe and India, where it is extensively cultivated for its seeds which form one of the pulses known under the name of " Gram," and which are greatly used by the natives as an article of food, being ground into meal, and either eaten in puddings or made into cakes. The leaves of this species consist of from three to seven pairs of leaflets with an odd one at the end, the leaflets being egg-shaped, and ha£in.£ their edges cut into very sharp teeth. Both leaves and stems are covered with glandular hairs containing oxalic acid, which exudes from them in hot weather and hangs in drops, ultimately forming crystals. In Mysore the natives collect the dew from the " Gram " plants by means of muslin cloths, which become saturated with it. The liquid thus obtained, which is very acid, is preserved in bottles for use, and is regarded as a sure medicine in cases of indigestion, being admin- istered in water. It is stated that the boots of a person walking through a dewy Gram field will be entirely destroyed by the pun- gency of this acid given out by the leaves. Cicho'rium. Chicory or Succory. An ancient Egyptian name. Nat. Ord. Composite. _ G. Intybus, the plant so extensively cultivated in Europe as a substitute for coffee, or for its adulteration, is commonly known as Wild Endive, and is found growing wild in most parts of Europe, being by far the most com- mon in England. It is also naturalized in this country, and is common in neglected neias and along roadsides in neighborhoods long settled. Its flowers are bright blue, produced in great profusion in August and September. The plant grows in its wild state from one to three feet high, but under cultivation it oiten reaches six feet. The roots are fleshy, not unlike the Dandelion, to which family it belongs. For the adulteration of coffee, the AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 87 CIC root is dried and ground, in which state it closely resembles ground coffee. The use of Chicory is common and undisguised, and many consider a mixture preferable to pure coffee, and buy the two, and mix to suit their own tastes. So great is the demand for it for this purpose, that, notwithstanding its cheap- ness and ease of culture, it is often adulterated by roasted wheat, rye, acorns, carrots, and other articles of a similar nature. The plants are largely cultivated in France for their leaves, which are blanched and used as a salad. A large-leaved variety, called the " Witloof," is much cultivated in Belgium, the plants being taken up in autumn, forced and blanched in a warm, dark place, and used either cooked or as a salad, forming what is called by the French " Barbe de Capucin." C. Edivia is the Endive, which see. Cicu'ta. Cowbane, Water Hemlock. The ancient Latin name of the Hemlock. Nat. Ord. UmbellifercB. A small genus of biennial plants, very com- mon in moist waste places. C. maculata, com- monly known as Spotted Cowbane, somewhat resembles Sweet Cicely, and is often mistaken for it. The root is an active poison in its green state, but loses its virulent qualities when dried. It is a dangerous pest to the farmer, the herbage often proving destructive to cattle, when eaten by them, and many children have lost their lives by eating the roots, which they have mistaken for Cicely. C. virosa, a species common throughout Europe, furnished the poison given to Phocion and Socrates. Cienko'wskia. Named in honor of Professor L. Cienkowsky, a Russian botanist. Nat. Ord. Scitaminece. C. Kirkii, the only described species, is a handsome and interesting plant, a native of eastern tropical Africa. Its blossoms, which are exceedingly attractive, are produced on a many-flowered scape, and are of a purplish- rose color, with a bifid golden spot in the center. It was introduced from Zanzibar in 1872. Syn. Kcempferia. Ciliae. Somewhat stiffish hairs, which form a fringe on the margin of an organ, as those on the leaf of Sempervivum tectorum. Ciliate. Fringed with hairs. Cimici'fuga. Bug-bane. A genus of Ranun- culaceoB, allied to Actsea. C. racemosa, Black Snake-root. The most showy and best known species is common in rich woods, from Maine to Wisconsin. It has tri-ternate leaves, and a stem three to eight feet high, bearing white flowers in elongated wand-like racemes. Several of the species, also, are natives of eastern Europe and Siberia. Cincho'na. Named after the Countess of Cin- chon, Vice-Queen of Peru, who was cured of a fever in 1638 by this remedy. Nat. Ord. Cin- chonaceoB. This genus yields the well-known Peruvian bark of commerce. It requires the protection of a warm green-house to preserve it in even moderate vigor. It is the type of an extensive and highly interesting order. Cinchona'ceee. A large and important order of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants, now re- garded as a division or sub-order of Rubiacece, which see. CIN Cinera'ria. From cineres, ashes ; in reference to the gray down covering the surface of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Composites. There are upward of fifty species of this genus enumerated, varying in habit from the dwarf herbaceous plant, not rising more than half a foot, to the tall, soft-wooded, suffruti- cose species with a stature of five or six feet. The flowers of most of them are of a pale greenish yellow, though some have white, red, or purple flowers. C. cruenta, introduced from the Canary Islands in 1777, is the species from which all the florist's varieties have originated and which are among the most ornamental and useful plants that can be grown for green-house or conservatory deco- ration. A packet of seeds of a good strain will produce a great variety of colors, and as the plants are of easy culture, and do not re- quire much heat, they should be grown by every one possessing a green-house where frost is excluded during winter; the plants flourishing best in a cool, rather moist atmos- phere. The seeds may be sown from July till September, and potted off separately in a light rich soil, and are best grown in an ordi- nary garden frame or cold pit, facing north, till the advent of frost, when they should be brought into the green-house and repotted at different times, according to their size and forwardness, thus insuring a succession of bloom during the late winter and spring months. As the old plants are very difficult to keep over summer, and seedlings make much more vigorous plants than those sum- mered over, it is better to sow a succession annually of a good strain, and when the plants have flowered throw them away. Through- out the entire existence of the plants they should be guarded from drought, and the at- tacks of green fly, to which they are very sub- ject. Tobacco stems, cut up fine, and placed among the pots on the bench, form an excel- lent preventive for the latter. They should also be fumigated frequently, but not strongly, as although the fly may not be detected at first the plants may be infested beneath the young leaves. All Cinerarias are benefitted by applications of manure water, from the time the ttower-heads are formed until they open. C. Maritima, a native of the south of Europe, has silvery gray foliage, downy beneath ; it is much used for vases and hanging-baskets, as well as in ribbon gardening, etc. Cinnabar. Scarlet touched with orange. Cinnamo'mum. Cinnamon. Derived from the Arabic kinamon, cinnamon. Nat. Ord. Laura- cem. A genus of evergreen trees, well known as furnishing the Cinnamon of commerce. C. Zeylanicum is largely cultivated in Ceylon for its bark, which furnishes the best Cinnamon. The bark is stripped off the branches, when it rolls up into quills, the smaller of which are introduced within the larger, and then dried in the sun. The thinner the bark is, as a rule, the finer the quality. C. Cassia furnishes the Cassia bark, which is much like Cinnamon, but thicker, coarser, stronger, less delicate in flavor, and cheaper. It is commonly used in the adulteration of Cinnamon. Both species furnish what are known as Cassia buds, which are something like cloves, and, like them, consist of the unexpanded flower buds. HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS CIN They possess properties similar to those of the bark. There are several other species of this genus that furnish aromatic barks, which are used in flavoring and in medicine. Cinnamon Fern. The popular name of one of our native Ferns, Osmunda Cinnamomea. Cinnamon Root. A common name for Inula Conyza. Cinnamon Tree. See Cinnamomum. Cinnamon Vine. batatas. A name given to Dioscorea Cinque-foil, or Five-Pinger. One of the popu- lar names of Potentilla, which see. Circae'a. Enchanter's Nightshade. A classical name, after Circe, a celebrated enchantress, skilled in poisonous herbs. Nat. Ord. Ona- graceai. A small genus of hardy herbaceous peren- nials, of but little interest ; natives of Europe, and naturalized in many parts of this country. Circinal. Resembling a circle. Circinate. Bent like the head of a crosier, as in the young leaf of a Fern when it begins to grow. Cirrhope'talum. From cirrhus, a tendril, and petalon, a flower leaf; in reference to the strap-shaped petals. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. An extensive genus of small, very curious epiphytal Orchids, natives of tropical Asia and the South Sea Islands. Their flowers are remarkable for having the lateral sepals pro- longed into narrow streamers. From this peculiar feature, and the fact that they occupy but little room, a few of the species have been introduced into the more general collection of Orchids. Propagated by division. Cirrhose. Either furnished with a tendril, as the Grape-vine or the leaves of Gloriosa superba ; or assuming the form and functions of a ten- dril, as the peduncles of Clematis cirrhosa ; or where the tendrils are in some way remark- able, as the Nepenthes. Ci'rsium. Common or Plumed Thistle. From kirsos, a swollen vein ; in reference to being pricked by the spines. Nat. Ord. Composite. The Thistle family is too well known to need special mention. Two of the more troublesome species, C. lanceolatum, the com- mon Thistle, and C. arvense,the Canada Thistle, are both natives of Europe, though perfectly naturalized in this country. There are many native species, the most conspicuous being C. muticum, Swamp Thistle, a perennial, common in moist woods and swamps, often growing as high as eight feet. This genus is now placed under Cnicus by some botanists. Cissa'mpelos. A genus of Menispermacew, with the climbing character of the Ivy, kissos of the Greeks, and the clustered fruit of the vine Ampelos. The most important plant of the genus is the Velvet-leaf, or Caapeba, C. Pareira, a native of the West Indies, Central America, and India. The root of this plant furnishes the " Pareira brava " of the drug- gists, much used in medicine. Ci'ssus. From kissos, ivy ; in reference to their scrambling habit. Nat. Ord. Vitacece. A genus of climbing plants, allied to Vitis. With a few exceptions, they are plants of but little interest to the florist. One of the species, however, C. discolor, is a plant remarkable for CIS the beauty of its foliage, and its adaptation to the hot-house. This species is a native of Java, and was introduced into England in 1854 by Messrs Rollison and Sons, of Tooting, and is described by Mr. Lowe as follows : " The leaves, which are six inches long and two and a half broad, are colored on the upper surface in the richest manner conceivable, the plant rivaling, in its beautiful foliage, the finest of the Anwctochilus family ; the color being a rich green, clouded with white, peach, and dark purplish crimson, and covered with a metallic luster. The under side of the leaf is a rich brownish crimson. No description or painting can do justice to the beauty of these superb leaves when in perfection." This plant is a rapid grower, requiring a very rich soil and humid atmosphere, together with a high temperature, to bring it to perfection. It should be grown in a shaded house, and care should be taken not to syringe the plant, as water on the leaves destroys the metallic luster. It is readily increased by cuttings. The leaves are much valued by florists for their various work in baskets, designs, etc. Cista'ceas. A natural order of shrubs or herbs, often viscid, with simple entire leaves and showy flowers, found chiefly in the south of Europe and the north of Africa, and rarely in North or South America. They are usually resinous, and have a balsamic fragrance. Helianthemum vulgare, the common Rock Rose of England, has remarkably irritable stamens, which in sunny weather move on being touched. There are eight genera and about 190 species in this order ; the best known of which are Cistus, Helianthemum and Hudsonia. Cisterns. The superior value of rain-water for plant cultivation and general garden purposes is often overlooked when building green- houses, as it is frequently conducted to drains when accommodation for its reception should be provided in the shape of cisterns. These are generally constructed with stones or brick, and coated inside with cement. Where the ground will admit of it, an excellent and cheap method is to have the sides of the cis- tern sloped as much as the soil will allow, and coat it one inch thick with a mixture of one part cement to three of gravel, finishing with a thin coating of pure cement. This forms a wall which when dry becomes as hard as iron, and will last for years. The size of cisterns should vary according to their intended use. If they are to furnish a daily supply of water, they need not be so large as for keeping a sup- ply for summer only. The average depth of rain which falls in this latitude rarely exceeds six to seven inches for two months. The size of the cistern therefore need not exceed that of a body of water on the whole roof of the building seven inches deep. To ascertain this amount multiply the length by the breadth of the building, reduce this to inches, and divide the product by 231, and the quotient will be gallons for each inch of depth. Multiplying by seven will give the full amount for two months' rain falling upon the roof; divide by 31%, the quotient will be barrels. Cisterns intended only for drawing from in times of drought, to hold all the water that may fall, should be about three times the preceding capacity. Ci'stus. Rock Rose. From kiste, a box ; in ref- AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 89 CIT erence to the form of the seed vessel. Nat. Ord. Cistaeece. A genus of handsome shrubs, few of which are in cultivation. They are natives of south- ern and western Europe, north Africa, and the Canary Islands. Some of the species are elegant shrubs, having terminal flower stalks bearing one or more flowers, resembling in appearance those of the Dog Rose. They sel- dom last more than a few hours after expand- ing, and do not open except in sunny weather. The flowers are either white or rose-colored, with yellow or purplish marks at their base. Some of the species furnish a gum that is used in Turkey as a perfume and for fumigation ; also supposed to be a specific for the plague. Propagated by seeds, layers, or cuttings. Cithare'xylum. Fiddle-wood. From kithara, a lyre, and xylon, wood ; in reference to the supposed fitness of the wood for musical instruments. Nat. Ord. Verbenacece. A genus of tall-growing trees, common from Florida to Brazil. It furnishes a hard, dur- able wood, suited for various purposes in the mechanic arts. Its supposed use in the man- ufacture of musical instruments is a mistake. One of the species is called by the French Fidele, for its durability in building. The English have corrupted the name to Fiddle- wood, by which name it is popularly known. Citrinous. Lemon-colored. Citron. (Citrus medica.) This is by some sup- posed to be the same species as the Lemon ; it is a native of the forests of the north of India, but is extensively cultivated in south- ern Europe. In its wild state the tree grows to the height of about eight feet, erect and prickly, with long reclining branches, in gen- eral appearance resembling the Lemon. The fruit is from six to nine inches in length, ovate, with a protuberance at the top. There are two rinds, the outer thin, with innumera- ble glands, full of a most fragrant oil; the inner thick, white and fungous ; it is this inner rind which is preserved and much used in confections, cake, etc. Citrone'lla. Oil Plant. Andropogon citratum. Citrullus. From Citrus, in allusion to the Orange-like fruits. Nat. Ord. Cucwbitacem. A small genus of trailing annual or peren- nial herbs. C. colocynthis furnishes the cathar- tic drug Colocynth, or Bitter Apple. C. vul- garis is the well-known Water Melon, which see. Ci'trus. Orange Tree. Derivation of name unknown. Supposed to refer to Citron, a town in Judea. Nat. Ord. Rutacece. The genus Citrus includes the Orange, Lemon, Lime, Citron, Shaddock, etc., all well deserving cultivation, both for their flowers and their fruit, but of which only a few kinds of Oranges and Lemons are generally grown. When grown for ornamental purposes in green-house or rooms, they all thrive well in a mixture of rich loam with a little rotted dung ; but great care is necessary not to over- pot them, or give them too much water when not in a growing state. The different species and varieties are generally propagated by bud- ding, grafting and inarching on the common Lemon, which grows readily from seed. Oranges are also frequently raised from seed ; but unless they are budded or grafted when CLA about two years old, it will be many years before they flower. Orange Trees may also be propagated by cuttings, which are best from the old wood, struck in sand in a gentle bottom heat, and shaded. Plants raised in this manner flower and fruit much sooner than any others, but they scarcely ever attain a large size. Both the Orange and Lemon are such favorites in this country that scarcely a cottage, where a flower-pot or tub can be put into requisition, is without one or the other of these plants. When placed in unsuitable soil and carelessly watered, they seldom remain long in a good state of health. When they become sickly and yellow they should be turned out of the pots, a large portion of the old soil should be shaken from the roots, and they should be repotted in a mixture of fine loamy soil and rotted manure, with about one- fourth of charcoal dust, or powdered charcoal. There are numerous varieties of Oranges and Lemons grown for the fruit. Our markets were formerly supplied from the south of Europe, the Azores and the West Indies. Until within a few years the "Havana" was the most highly esteemed, but the Florida Orange is now the leading variety in the mar- kets. The cultivation of the Orange in Flor- ida commenced previous to 1820, but was carried on only to a limited extent for some years thereafter. From 1830 to 1835 many large groves were planted, nearly all of which were destroyed by the extraordinary frost of the latter year. The previous year there were trees at St. Augustine that pro- duced each 14,000 oranges — a handsome rev- enue from a single tree. The dreaded effects of a frost almost entirely discouraged further plantings for a number of years. The culti- vation of the Orange is now attracting greater attention in Florida than ever before. The Indian River country abounds in plantations that are yielding large and profitable crops. Some of the more scientific growers, from careful experiments and close observation, hold the opinion that frosts as severe as those of 1835 will not injure the trees if the precau- tion be taken to shade the trunks from the sun a short time, until the circulation of the sap is fully restored. Lemons, Limes and Shaddocks are also largely grown in Florida. In some parts of Texas and in California the cultivation of these fruits is being rapidly extended. Cladra'stis Yellow Wood. Name of obscure derivation. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. This genus includes several species, none of which are of special interest, excepting C. tinctoria, better known, perhaps, as Virgilia lutea, a native species indigenous in eastern Kentucky and southward. It is a small and handsome tree, with a compact, broadly rounded head, leaves compound like those of the Locust, of a light, pleasing green color, changing in autumn to a warm yellow. The flowers appear in June in pendulous racemes of great beauty, pea-shaped, white and fragrant, and are produced in such profusion as almost to clothe the tree, making it a beautiful object for the lawn. It is perfectly hardy, though of slow growth, and commences to flower when only a small shrub. Propagated by cuttings of the roots or by seeds. C. amurensis, the East Indian representative of the foregoing, is a tree reaching the height of forty feet, 90 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS CLA bearing pinnate leaves and long, dense racemes of whitish flowers. It is a very orna- mental tree, flowering freely in August, and being quite hardy, is a decidedly useful addi- tion to the shrubbery or lawn. It was intro- duced from the Amoor Valley in 1880. Clammy. Viscid, sticky. Cla'rkia. In honor of Captain Clarke, who accompanied Captain Lewis in his journey to the Rocky Mountains. Nat. Ord. Onagracem. A genus of hardy annuals, mostly from Cal- ifornia. The whole of the species are indis- pensable to every flower garden where annuals are grown. The first sowing should take place in September ; a few will survive the winter, and afford an early bloom in the following season. The next and principal sowing should be done in March, and a few more put in about the end of April, together with those trans- planted, will continue a fine display through the whole summer. They grow in any soil, so that the situation is open or free from the drip of trees, and merely require to be thinned to about a foot from each other. This rule will apply to nearly all those that are known as "tender annuals." Clary. Salvia Sclarea. A biennial plant of the order Labiatw, a native of the south of France, Switzerland and of Italy. It has been under cultivation as a pot-herb, for seasoning soups, since early in the sixteenth century. It is grown in the same manner as the common sage, Salvia officinalis. Clavate. Club-shaped, as where any organ, slender at the base, gradually enlarges to- wards the apex, as the filaments of Thalictrum clavatum. Claw. The long, narrow base of some petals, analogous to the footstalk of leaves, as in Dianthus. Clayto'nia. Spring Beauty. Named after Dr. John Clayton, an early American botanist. Nat. Ord. Portulacacem. A genus of very pretty, hardy plants, of either annual or perennial duration. The for- mer only require to be sown where they are to remain, and the latter succeed when planted in loam without further trouble. Their flowers are either white or pink of various shades. Several tuberous-rooted perennial species are found in moist woods in this country from Virginia westward to California. They do not differ materially from the annual species in flowering, and are worthy of cultivation. Cleavers or Clivers. See Galium. Cleiso'stoma. From kleio, to close, and stoma, a mouth ; in allusion to the mouth of the spur being closed. Nat. Ord. Orchidaceai. A genus of East Indian epiphytal orchids, the several species of which, are beautiful plants, although most of them have small flowers, a fact that renders them unpopular with orchid growers. They require the same treatment as the Aerides. Cle'matis. Virgin's Bower. From klema, a vine-branch; in reference to their climbing like a vine. Nat. Ord. Ranunculacew. An extensive genus of handsome twining shrubs, natives of North America, Europe, Japan, and occasionally met with in Australia, Asia, and Africa. C. Virginiana is the well- CLE known Virgin's Bower, a species common in the woods and roadsides of New York south- ward. There are several other species com- mon in this country. C. flammula, the sweet- scented Virgin's Bower, is much admired for its gracefulness, delicious fragrance, and poeti- cal associations. For the many large-flowering varieties we are indebted to Sieboldt and For- tune, who discovered them in Japan. From the several species introduced by them very many varieties have been produced, among which is C. Jackmanii, a variety with large pur- ple flowers, very showy, and deservedly popu- lar. Some of the varieties are pure white, with both double and single flowers. The whole of them are quite hardy, though the young growth should be protected the first winter. They delight in a strong, rich soil, and for climbing up stumps of old trees, training to trellises, covering arbors or verandas, or planting to droop over amongst rock- work, no plants are more suitable or will make a more gorgeous display. Not only are they well adapted for running up all kinds of supports, festooning, etc., but many of the grand hy- brid varieties, are equally suitable for trailing over the surface of the ground, and covering beds, either alone or associated with a few distinct foliaged plants. They are pro- pagated by layering the young shoots in sum- mer or by root grafting on some of our stronger growing native varieties. The shoots of the half-ripened young wood can also be freely rooted by cuttings during the summer months. C. crispa, a native species, is very popular, and deservedly so. The flowers, of medium size, are of beautiful purple, and deliciously fragrant ; a characteristic absent from most of the class. C. coccinea, a recent introduction from Texas, presents us with a new and desirable color. Cleo'me. From kleio, to shut ; in reference to the parts of the flower. Nat. Ord. Cappari- dacetB. An extensive genus, consisting of tropical shrubs, annuals and biennials, which are not suitable for general cultivation. This genus, however, contains several very curious and pretty indigenous annuals, with white, rose, and purple flowers, natives of the Southern and Western States. They are all easy of cultivation. They should be started in a hot- bed, and the plants put out in the open border at the proper season for tender annuals. Clerode'ndron. From kleros, a chance, and dendron, a tree ; said to be owing to the uncertainty of the medicinal qualities. Nat. Ord. Verbenaceae. It is difficult to conceive more beautiful objects than several members of this genus when well cultivated. Cuttings taken off any time during summer root readily, or in winter in gentle heat, and should be kept in small pots through the succeeding winter, on a shelf or underneath a bench in the green- house. About the first of February repot them, giving them a liberal shift. The soil should be light and very rich. To flower freely, they require frequent shiftings from smaller into larger pots. With this treatment they can be made to bloom continually during the entire season. Old plants can be grown on with occasional shiftings, and make splen- did plants for garden decoration during sum- AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 91 CLE mer. They must, however, be grown in the shade. After flowering, water freely, in order that they may make a good growth ; after which they should have partial sun to ripen the wood. If not wanted for winter flowering, remove the plants in the fall to a light cellar, free from frost, giving them through the winter just enough water to sustain life. In the spring, when all danger from frost is over, remove the plants to any desired position in the garden or on the veranda for another sea- son of bloom. C. Thompsonce, known also as C. Balfourii, introduced from Old Calabar in 1861, has bright crimson flowers disposed in large panicles, with pure white calyxes, is the best and most showy variety, and one we have seen in full bloom a number of years in succession, with the above treatment. It makes a valuable climbing plant for the green- house when so desired. Cle'thra. White Alder, Sweet Pepperbusb. From klethra, the Greek name of the Alder, which this genus somewhat resembles in foli- age. Nat. Ord. Ericaceae. A genus of deciduous shrubs, several species of which are common in swamps and low places along our southern coast. C. alnifolia is common in the Middle States, and is remarkable for its sweet-scented flowers, which are borne in terminal racemes in July and August. Like many other of our native plants, it improves by cultivation, and will succeed well in a shrubbery border, however dry. It should be transplanted in early spring. Cleye'ra. Named after Andrew Cleyer, M.D., a Dutch botanist of Batavia. Nat. Ord. Tern- strcemiacew. A genus comprising a few Indian and Jap- anese evergreen shrubs with Camellia-like leaves, and small axillary white or yellowish flowers, sometimes sweet-scented. C. Jap- onica tricolor is a very handsome variegated plant, with leathery, obovate, dark-green leaves, obliquely marked with bands of greyish-green, the broad, creamy-white mar- gin, tinged of a bright rose-color, being very conspicuous in the younger foliage. Propa- gated by cuttings of the half-ripened shoots. Clia'nthus. Glory Pea. From kleios, glory, and anthos, a flower. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A genus of magnificent, half-hardy shrubs from Australia, remarkable for their showy flowers, which are borne in terminal or axil- lary racemes. C. puniceus, the Parrot's Bill, is a magnificent, half-hardy, shrubby climber, with bright crimson flowers, a native of New Zealand. It grows very freely in rich loam if its roots are allowed sufficient room ; and it generally thrives best when planted against the back wall of a conservatory. Cuttings planted in pots in the autumn, and kept in the shady part of the green-house, will be rooted by spring, when they may be planted in the open border. It is a plant that rarely flowers well in a pot, as it requires abundance of room for its roots, and grows rapidly, with rather succulent shoots, requiring abundance of water during the growing season, and very little at any other time. "When grown in the open ground the juicy nature of its roots ren- ders it a favorite food for snails, and when kept in the conservatory or green-house it is very apt to be attacked by the red spider. If CLI these enemies be kept away, and the plant be grown in rich soil, composed of equal parts of loam and thoroughly rotted manure, and well supplied with air, light, and water, with abundance of room for its roots, the rapidity of its growth and the splendor of its flowers will almost surpass belief ; but unless these points are attended to, the plant is scarcely worth growing. C. Dampieri, Glory Pea, a species from the desert regions of Australia, is by far the most beautiful of the genus, either for the green-house or the border. Its cultivation is rather difficult. It does not grow to such dimensions as the former, but is of the same habit, and succeeds best when treated as an annual. The flowers are brilliant scarlet, and marked with a black blotch in the center. If the seeds are planted in May in the open border where they are to grow, in a rich, sandy loam, they will make magnificent plants, and flower freely from August until killed by frost. Five degrees of frost will not injure either the plants or the flowers. They will not at any time bear transplanting. Intro- duced in 1852. Climber. A plant that grows upright upon trees, walls, etc., and supports itself by ten- drils or by air-roots ; an example of the for- mer being the Grape Vine ( Vitis), and of the latter the Virginia Creeper (Ampelopsis). Climbing Fern. See Lygodium scandens. Climbing Fumatory. See Adlumia cirrhosa. Climbing Gentian. The genus Crawfurdia. Climbing Hempweed. See Mikania scandens. Climbing Hydrangea. See Hydrangea scandens. The name is also applied to Schizophragma Hydrangeoides. Clinto'nia. Named in honor of De Witt Clin- ton, at one time governor of the State of New York. Nat. Ord. Liliaceoe. Very beautiful and interesting stemless perennials, with creeping root-stocks, admir- ably adapted for the herbaceous border. They are found in rich woods from New York, southward, along the Alleghanies ; one species, with deep rose-colored flowers is found in California. The genus very com- monly known as Clintonia (Douglas), belonging to Lobeliacem, is more properly called Dow- ningia, as the Clintonia of Rafinesque has priority over that of Douglas. See Downingia. Clito'ria. Blue Pea, Butterfly Pea. From kleio, to shut up ; in reference to its seeding within the flower long before the flower drops off. Nat. Ord. Leguminosoz. Very handsome hot-house climbers, of graceful habit, the majority producing large, highly-colored flowers. C. ternatea, Syn. Ternatea vulgaris, introduced from India in 1739, is perhaps the finest, its lovely blue flowers receiving universal admiration. The whole of the perennial species succeed in rich loam, the annual kinds require the ordi- nary treatment of tender annuals. C. Mariana has a curious distribution, being found in the Southern States and Mexico, and appearing again in the Khasia Mountains in India, without being found in any intervening place. Propagated by cuttings or seeds. Cli'via. Named after a Duchess of Northumber- land, a member of the Clive family. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. 92 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS CLO Clivia nobilis, the only species, is a robust growing plant, which, once established, is very prolific of flowers. It grows well in sandy loam, if allowed the warmest part of the green-house, or a cool shelf in the hot- house. Its flowers, which are produced in a pendulous umbel, are of a delicate flesh color throughout the greater part of the tube, heightening to a deep red over the limb, the segments of which are bright green. It is increased by division of the roots. Native of the Cape of Good Hope. Introduced in 1823. Syn. Imantophyllum Aitoni. Cloud-Berry. See Rubus Chamcemorus. Cloud Grass. A common name for Agrostis nebulosa. Clover. The common name for Trifolium, especially applied to the kinds cultivated for hay and pasture. Cloves. The small bulbs formed within the mother-bulb of certain plants; such as garlic. Clove Tree. Caryophyllus aromaticus. The Cloves of commerce are the dried unexpanded flower buds. Club-moss. clavatum. The common name of Lycopodium Club Root. A disease of the most destructive character, which frequently attacks Cabbage, Cauliflower, and other plants of the Brassica tribe. There is a great deal of misconception as to what is the cause of Club Boot, it being attributed variously to wet land, dry land, hog manure, and several other causes that have got nothing to do with it whatever. All observ- ing horticulturists who have had experience in the cultivation of Cabbage or Cauliflower, in any vicinity where there is an oyster shell deposit, know that the Club Boot is never seen in any soil wherein there is an admixture of oyster shells. Thousands of acres on the shores of the Atlantic coast, on Long Island and in New Jersey, have just such soils, and there Cabbage crops have been grown for upward of fifty years successively without a sign of this disease ; while in other soils only a few hundred yards distant, but having no mixture of oyster shell in the soil, it is found that Cabbages cannot be grown successively on the same soil without being attacked by Club Boot. The inference is, therefore, plain, that the insect causing the disease called Club Boot cannot exist in contact with the lime of the oyster shell ; for that the disease is caused by an insect is well proven, as it is found that the excrescence known as Club Boot, when examined, is found to contain a small, whitish, grub-like larva. It is evident that the grow- ing crop of Cabbage invites in some way the perfect insect ; for it is found, that if Cabbage is planted for the first time on new soil, it is rarely attacked by Club Boot, while if planted the next year on the same soil, if lime is not present, it is almost certain to be attacked ; and for this reason it is fair to presume that the perfect insect, allured by the Cabbage crop, deposits its eggs in the soil, which re- main undeveloped until the next season, when they are hatched and attack the roots of the Cabbage plants, and thus bring on the disease. As an evidence of the correctness of this belief, we never fail to find, for example, if we plarft alongside of each other, a crop of COB Cabbage and a crop of Potatoes or Beets, that if the succeeding year we plant the whole with Cabbage, the part only that was planted with Cabbage the year before will be af- fected by Club Boot, and the parts planted with Potatoes or Beets will escape. From our ex- perience that Cabbage planted in soils mixed with oyster shells is exempt from Club Boot, it is evident that the lime in the oyster shells is the agent destructive to the insect ; there- fore, in soils having no oyster shells, we have found if air-slacked lime is put on at the rate of 150 bushels to the acre after plowing, and well harrowed in, so as to mix it with the soil, that it in most cases will destroy the larvae which causes Club Boot. We have also found, from its containing large quantities of lime, that Bone Dust, used as a fertilizer at the rate of one to two tons per acre, is another almost certain antidote against Club Boot. We would advise the use of lime after all plowing, but the Bone Dust should only be put on be- fore the crop is planted in spring. Club-rush or Bulrush. The common name of the genus Scirpus, a common marsh plant ; also applied to Typha latifolia. Clu'sia. Balsam Tree. Named in honor of Clusius of Atrois, author of Historia Plan- tarium, and many other works, 1526-1609. Nat. Ord. Guttiferai. A genus of evergreen trees or shrubs, often epiphytal, peculiar to tropical America, and growing in very humid not places. Nearly sixty species are enumerated, many of which yield resin from the flowers, as well as from the trunks and branches. Clustered. Where numerous similar parts are collected in a close, compact manner, as in the flowers of Cuscuta. Cni'cus Benedictus. Blessed Thistle. An annual herb, with smoothish, clasping, scarcely pinnatifid cut leaves, and large bracted heads of yellow flowers. Native of Europe, scarcely naturalized southwards. The genus Cirsium, is included in the genus by some botanists. Cobae'a. Named in honor of B. Cobo, a Spanish botanist. Nat. Ord. Polemoniacece. The two known species of these plants are elegant, fast-growing climbers, which may be grown in the green-house, the conservatory, or the garden in summer, where, from their rapid development, they are particularly desirable for covering walls, arbors, or other objects of a similar nature. It is preferable to treat them as annuals. The seed should be sown in March, in light, rich soil, on a gentle heat. The young plants should be potted separately into small pots, as soon as they can be handled with safety, using the same kind of soil, and, after being gradually inured to the temperature they are likely to be subject to in their after growth, may finally, when about a foot in height, be placed where they are to remain. It is sel- dom that seed is matured in the open air, but in a green-house or conservatory it is pro- duced abundantly. C. scandens, the species in general cultivation, is a native of Mexico, and was introduced in 1792. A white flowered variety of C. scandens originated here in 1872, and one with variegated leaves in 1874. CLIANTHUS DAMPIEKI. ^sMlfc- COFFEA (COFFEE PLANT). COIX LACHEYM.E. COCCIN1A. H5S«^ COCOS WEDDELLIANA. COB.EA SCANDENS. COCOS NUCIFEKA (COCOA-NUT PALM). t'OLEU.S (VAEIETTES OF). 93 AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 93 COB Cobu'rgia. Named after Prince Leopold of Saxe- Coburg, now King of Belgium. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. An interesting genus of half-hardy bulbs from South America, (mostly from Peru), requiring the same treament as Sprekelia formosissima. The flowers are mostly scarlet and very showy. They require a strong, rich soil. Propagated by offsets. Introduced in 1826, but rarely seen except in botanical col- lections. Coca. See Erythroxylon. Cocci'neus. A pure carmine color, slightly tinged with yellow. Cocci'nia. Derivation of name not given. Nat. Ord. Cucurbitacece. C. Indica, the only species and formerly called Momordica monadelphia, is a climbing shrub, common in the hedges of India. It has large white flowers. The fruit is oblong, marked with ten white lines. When ripe it is of a red color, and is used by the natives in their sauces. The leaves and other parts of the plants are used in medicine. Coccocy'pselum. From kokkos, fruit, and kypsele, a vase ; referring to the form of the berries. Nat. Ord. Rubiaceoe. A small genus of soft-wooded trailing plants from the West Indies and Central America. C. repens is interesting from its bluish-purple berries. As a genus, they do not occupy a prominent place either as ornamental or use- ful plants. Coccolo'ba. Sea-side Grape. From kokkos, a berry, and lobos, a lobe ; in reference to the fruit. Nat. Ord. Polygonaceos. Most of this genus are tropical evergreen trees, interesting and beautiful, but too large for ordinary green-house culture. C. platy- clada is a dwarf species, with curious flat stems, growing from five to ten feet high. It succeeds well planted in an ordinary flower border, and is useful in filling large vases and rustic tubs, or for planting in rock-work. It is propagated freely by cuttings. The flowers are small and white, produced at the axils of the leaves. The correct name of this plant is now given as Muehlenbeckia platyclada, which see. Co'cculus. Derived from kokkos, the systematic name of the Cochineal ; given to this genus because most of the species bear scarlet berries. Nat. Ord. Menispermacece. An extensive genus of climbing shrubs, re- markable for their medicinal properties. With one exception the species are all natives of the East Indies. C. Carolinus, common in woods and thickets from North Carolina to Florida, is a very handsome climber, remarka- ble for its racemes of white flowers, which are succeeded by clusters of bright scarlet ber- ries, that remain on the vine all winter. This is one of the most beautiful climbers under cultivation, and will succeed well where there is not more than ten or twelve degrees of frost. It is increased by cuttings or from seeds. Syn. Wendlandia. Co'cculus Indicus, Plant. See Anamirta (Me- nispermum) cocculus. Co'chlearia. From cochlear, a spoon; the leaves of most species are hollowed, like the bowl of a spoon. Nat. Ord. Cruciferce. COC A genus of annual or perennial herbs, usu- ally smooth and fleshy. There are about twenty-five species widely distributed over the temperate and cold regions of the northern hemisphere. C. officinalis is the Scurvy Grass, valuable as an anti-scorbutic. C. Armoracea is the Horse Radish, which see. Cochleate. Twisted in a short spire, resem- bling the convolutions of a snail-shell, as the pod of Medicago cochleata, or the seed of Salicomia. Cochlioste'ma. From cochlios, spiral, and sterna, a stamen. Nat. Ord. Commelynacem. A genus of green-house perennials allied to Tradescantia, natives of Brazil. They are rather curious in form, having contracted stems and tufted leaves, like those of a Bromelia. The flowers are blue, and borne on branched clusters. Of the two species in cultivation, one is small and the other, C. Jacobianum, is very large and showy, equally valuable from a horticultural point of view, as it is interesting from its peculiar structure. They are increased by division. Introduced in 1866. Cockle. The common name of Lychnis Oithago, a troublesome weed in grain fields. Intro- duced from Europe. Cocklebur or Clotbur. The popular name of Xanthium, a coarse annual weed, common on the sea-coast, especially southward. Cockscomb. See Celosia. Cock's-Foot Grass. Dactylis glomerata. Cock's-Spur Thorn. Cratmgus Crus-galli. Cocoanut. The nut of Cocos nucifera, which see. Cocos. Cocoanut Tree. From the Portuguese word, coco, a monkey ; in reference to the end of the nut resembling the head of the monkey. Nat. Ord. Palmacem. C. nucifera, the well-known Cocoanut Tree, is the type of this genus of Palms, to which, in addition, about a dozen other species be- long. They mostly form tall, graceful trees, and the majority of them are natives of the tropical regions of America, one only, the common Cocoanut, being found in Asia or Africa. The trees grow to a great height, with a straight trunk, and, like almost every species of the Palm tribe, without branches. The leaves are from twelve to fifteen feet long. The flowers come out round the top of the trunk in large clusters, inclosed in a sheath, and the nuts succeed them, commonly ten or twelve together. There are few trees more extensively or variously useful. The leaves are employed as thatch to cover houses, and to make mats either for sitting or lying upon. The leaf, when reduced to fine fibers, is the material of which beautiful and costly carpets are made for those in the higher ranks ; the coarse fibers are made into brooms. After these useful materials are taken from this leaf, the stem still remains, which is about three inches thick, and furnishes fire- wood. The wood of this Palm, when fresh cut, is spongy, but becomes hard after being seasoned, and assumes a dark brown color. On the top of the tree a large shoot is pro- duced, which, when boiled, resembles Broc- coli, but is said to be of a more delicate taste ; and though much liked, is seldom used by 94 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS COD the natives, because, on cutting it off, the pith is exposed, and the tree dies. Between this cabbage like shoot and the leaves there spring several buds, from which, on making an in- cision, there distills a juice differing but little from water, either in color or consistence. It is the employment of a certain class of men to climb to the top of the trees in the evening, with earthen pots tied to their waists, which they fix there to receive the juice, which is regularly carried away before the sun has had any influence upon it. This liquid is sold at the bazaars by the natives under the name of toddy. After being kept a few hours it begins to ferment, acquires a sharp taste, and a slightly intoxicating quality, in which state it is drank by the natives and poorer classes with avidity. It is also used as yeast, for which it forms an excellent substitute. By boiling it a coarse kind of sugar is obtained ; and by distillation it yields a strong, ardent spirit, which is sold at a low price, constitut- ing it a most pernicious beverage. The outside rind or husk of the fruit yields the fiber from which the well-known Cocoanut matting is manufactured. In order to obtain it the husks are soaked in salt water for six or twelve months, when the fibre is easily sepa- rated by beating, and is made up into a coarse kind of a yarn called coir. Besides its use for matting, it is extensively used in the manu- facture of heavy cordage for ship's cables. It is also used for various kinds of brushes, and for stuffing mattresses, cushions, etc. The next important product of the fruit is the oil, which is procured by boiling and pressing the white kernel or albumen of the nut. It is liquid at the ordinary temperature in tropical countries, and while fresh is used in cooking. By the time the nuts reach this country the albumen is solid, and has frequently a rancid smell or taste. When green, or first gathered, this substance is easily separated by pressure into what is termed stearine, which is made into candles, and a very good oil, used for burning in lamps. As an article of food the kernel is of the greatest importance to the in- habitants of the tropics. In the Laccadives it forms the chief food, each person consuming four nuts per day, and the fluid, commonly called milk, affords them an agreeable be- verage. While young they yield a delicious substance resembling blanc-mange. As the nut ripens, the milk is gradually absorbed, or hardens into the white, fleshy substance that we find when we receive them. The Cocoa- nuts brought to this market are chiefly from Central America, where they are gathered from the interior by the natives, brought to the coast, and sold to dealers who make that trade a specialty. Cocos Weddelliana, intro- duced from South America, is the most orna- mental of this group, and one of the most graceful Palms in cultivation. For dinner- table decoration there is no Palm to compare with it. It is very dwarf, with finely-divided foliage, which is recurved with exquisite grace. It deserves a place in the smallest collection of plants. The Cocos are all pro- pagated from seed, and require a temperature of about 70° for the germination of the seed and the growth of the plants. Codiae'um. From Codebo, the Malayan name for one of the species. Nat. Ord. Euphorbia acece. COF By a number of authorities, the greater part of the plants known and described as Crotons, are placed under this genus. They have doubtless all originated from two or three species, and though popularly known as Cro- tons, belonging, as they do, to a different sec- tion of Euphorbiacem, they should come under this genus. Codlins and Cream. A popular name of the flowers of the Narcissus Incomparabilis ; also for Epilobium hirsutum. Ccelia. From koilos, hollow ; in allusion to the pollen masses. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A genus of very curious and pretty stove- house orchids, natives of the West Indies and Guatemala. C. Baueriana has pretty, sweet- scented white flowers, and has been in culti- vation since 1790. Coelo'gyne. From koilos, hollow, and gyne, a female ; in reference to the female organ or pistil. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. An extensive genus of very beautiful Orchids, natives of sub-tropical Asia. Most of the species are great favorites with Orchid grow- ers, on account of their remarkable flowers, which are produced in great numbers with but very little care or trouble. C. cristata, one of the finest of the genus, has beautiful ivory- white flowers with a blotch of yellow on the lip. "This is a magnificent species, which any one having a green-house can grow. Of late years it has been grown in great perfection, and it is as easy to have plants a foot or more in diameter, producing hundreds of flowers, as it is to grow Verbenas. Give plenty of water when growing, free circulation of warm air, and not too much heat." — Rand. It may be grown in moss in pots, and is propagated by division. Introduced in 1837. Coffe'a. Coffee Tree. From Coffee, the name of a province in Narea, in Africa, where it grows in abundance. Nat. Ord. Rubiacece. The coffee of commerce is the fruit of an evergreen shrub, or low-growing tree, rarely attaining a height of twenty feet, which it will only acquire under the most favorable con- ditions of soil and climate, the usual height being from ten to twelve feet. All of our coffee is the fruit of one species. Some botanists, however, claim there are two; but the opinion that the different sorts are merely varieties, resulting from soil, climate, and mode of culture, is the one generally enter- tained. C. Arabica, the parent of the numer- ous varieties in cultivation, is a native of Arabia Felix and Ethiopia, and was first intro- duced to the notice of Europeans by Ran- wolfius in 1573 ; but Alpinus, in 1591, was the first one who scientifically described it. The Dutch were the first to introduce the plant into Europe. Having procured some berries at Mocha, which were carried to Batavia, and there planted, a specimen was sent to Amster- dam, in the year 1690, by Governor Wilson, where it bore fruit, and produced many young plants. From these the East Indies, and most of the gardens of Europe, were furnished. In 1714 a plant was presented by the magistrates of Amsterdam to the French King, Louis XIV. This plant was placed at Marley, under the care of the celebrated Jussieu, who afterward gave a plant to Desclieux, a young officer in the French navy, who took it to Martinique, from which the extensive plantations of the AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 95 COP French West Indies were established, and whence were also derived all the coffee plants in Mexico and South America. The use of coffee was known in Arabia, where the plant is supposed to have been indigenous, long before the periods mentioned. All authorities agree in ascribing its introduction to Megal- leddin, a Turkish doctor of divinity, of Aden, in Arabia Felix, who had become acquainted with it in Persia, and had recourse to it medicinally when he returned to his own country. The progress which it made was by no means rapid at first, and it was not until the year 1554 that coffee was publicly sold in Constantinople. Its use had, in the mean- while, been much checked by authority of the Syrian government, on the ground of its alleged intoxicating qualities ; but more prob- ably because of its leading to social and fes- tive meetings incompatible with the strictness of the Mahommedan discipline. A similar persecution attended the use of coffee soon after its introduction into the capital of Tur- key, where the ministers of religion, having made it the subject of solemn complaint that the mosques were deserted while the coffee- houses were crowded, these latter were shut up by order of the mufti, who employed the police of the city to prevent any one from drinking coffee. This provision it was found impossible to establish, so that the govern- ment, with a strict eye to business, laid a tax upon the sale of the beverage, which produced a large revenue. The Turks are most invet- erate coffee-drinkers, a fact that may in a great measure be accounted for by the strict prohibition which the Moslem religion lays against the use of wine and spirituous liquors. So necessary was coffee at one time considered among the Turks, that the refusal to supply it in moderate quantities to a wife was reckoned among the legal causes for divorce. Coffee cannot be cultivated to advantage in a cli- mate where the temperature at any time descends below fifty-five degrees of Fahren- heit. The trees thrive best in new soils on a gentle slope, where water will not lodge about the roots. In exposed situations it is necessary to plant rows of tall trees, at proper intervals, to moderate the scorching heat of the sun. From Ellis' History of Coffee we learn the following facts : " It is well known that coffee raised in the West Indies does not equal in flavor that produced in Arabia and other parts of the East ; and it is commonly imagined that this inferiority is principally owing to local causes, and is, therefore, inca- pable of being remedied. The seed of the West Indian coffee, from growing in a richer soil and more humid atmosphere, is larger than that of Arabia; though there is reason for believing that the superior quality of Turkey and East Indian coffee is not altogether to be referred to the influences of soil and climate, but depends, in part at least, upon the age to which the seeds are kept before they are brought into consumption. Trees planted in a light soil, and in a dry situation, produce smaller berries, which have a better flavor than those grown in rich, flat, and moist soils. The weight of produce yielded by the latter is, however, double that obtained from the for- mer. The drier the soil and the warmer the situation, the better will be the coffee pro- duced, and the sooner it will acquire a flavor." COL He says further: "The more common or poorest quality of South American coffee will, in the course of ten or fifteen years, be as good, and have as high a flavor, as the best we now have from Turkey; but due care should be taken to keep it in a dry place, and to preserve it properly. Small-grained coffee, produced in a dry soil and warm situation, will be matured in three years. The trees begin bearing when they are two years old ; in their third year they are in their full bear- ing. The produce of a good tree is from one and a half to two pounds. The aspect of a coffee plantation during the period of flower- ing is very interesting. In one night the blossoms expand so profusely as to give the trees the appearance of being covered with snow. This period lasts but one or two days. " The amount of labor required to secure a crop of coffee is very great, and is chiefly performed by negroes. When the trees are in full bear- ing, an industrious man will pick three bushels of berries in a day, and each bushel of ripe berries will yield ten pounds of merchantable coffee. Two systems are employed in curing coffee : A common plan is to expose the ber- ries to the sun in layers of from five to six inches deep, which will cause the pulp to fer- ment in a few days, after which it takes about three weeks to dry sufficiently for the husks to be separated from the seeds by a mill. Other planters remove the pulp as soon as gathered, by a mill constructed for the pur- pose, which bruises the berries and separates the pulp by washing, after which it is dried in the sun, and the husks removed, as in the for- mer process. Cohering. Connected. Cohosh. A popular name for Actcea spicata. Cohosh. Blue. A name applied to Caulophylhim thalictroides. Coix. Job's Tears. A name applied by Theo- phrastus to a reed-leaved plant. Nat. Ord. Graminacece. A genus of perennial grasses that succeed well under ordinary cultivation in the garden. C. lachryma, a native of the East Indies, from whence introduced in 1596, will do well treated as an annual. It is considerably grown for its seeds, which are popularly known as Job's Tears. Mothers, in the last century, thought their children could not be safely carried through teething without a string of Job's Tears around their necks. Cola. The native name. Nat. Ord. Sterculiacece. C. acuminata, the only cultivated species, was introduced from tropical Africa in 1868, under the name of Cola, Kola or Goora nuts. The seeds of this tree are universally used as a condiment by the natives of western and cen- tral tropical Africa.and likewise by the negroes in the West Indies and Brazil, by whom the tree has been introduced into those countries. They are also used in medicine, and to render putrid water wholesome. At the present writ- ing (1889) much interest is exhibited in this nut as an ingredient in a new condensed form of rations for military purposes, combining, it is claimed, two special advantages of great importance. First, its bulk and weight being very much less than those of ordinary rations, it is much more easy to carry on a forced march, thus relieving the marching force of 96 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS COL the impediment of a food-supply train, and secondly, that it greatly increased both the muscular strength and wind of the soldier so that he could march more rapidly and steadily and not become so easily tired out or dis- couraged. It has also been ascertained that horses like it, which is a very important point, and that its alimentary power is equal to that of twice its weight in oats, and that it plainly exerts an exciting action on the nerves and muscles of the horses. M. Elisee Reclus, in several parts of his " Nouvelle Geographie Universelle," mentions the Kola nut. He states that the tree is held sacred by the natives, who, by using it, are enabled "to stand hunger and thirst for a long while, and "be shielded against fevers." There are two kinds of the tree. One bears white and the other red nuts. If the former are sent by a chief they mean peace, if the latter, war and the shedding of blood. When in 1879, two French explorers, Moustier and Zerafel, who were trying to find the head- waters of the Niger, arrived in sight of the hills from which this great Soudanese river emerges, and were within four miles of the main source, they had to come to a bait. The negro sovereign of that region forbade them to advance any nearer and sent them a red Kola nut, as a token that if they disregarded his notification to stop, blood would flow. The French Alpine Club uses the Kola nut, and recommends it to mountain climbers. No doubt it might often be made to serve a good purpose in our country. Colax. From Colax, a parasite. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A small genus of very beautiful Orchids, taken from Maxillaria. They are natives of Brazil and may be grown in moss and in mod- erate heat. Lycaste was formerly included in this genus. Co'lchlcum. Meadow Saffron. Named after Colchis, its native country, in Asia Minor. Nat. Ord. Melanthacece. A hardy bulbous-rooted plant, which will grow well in the border. The flowers come up through the ground without the leaves in autumn, and closely resemble those of the Crocus. The leaves do not appear till the following spring, and great care should be taken of them, as, if they should be injured so as to prevent them from exercising their proper functions in maturing the sap, the bulb will not flower the next autumn. The genus is universally poisonous and is valued for its medicinal properties. Cold Frame. This is the term used for the low glass structure in use for protecting such plants as are not sufficiently hardy to with- stand the winter in the Northern States. They are used to protect Cabbage, Cauliflower, Let- tuce, Parsley, etc., among vegetables, and Violets, Pansies, Daisies, Primroses, Carna- tions, Auriculas, etc., among flowers. The boxes or frames used are simply two boards, running parallel with each other, and nailed to posts to secure them in line, the one at the back or north side being ten to twelve inches in height, and that for the front, or south side, being seven or eight inches, which gives pitch enough to carry off the rain and to catch the sun's rays. The width between these lines of boards should be enough to take the length of COL a six-foot sash, which is the most convenient size. All the plants of the character above- named can be protected in the district of New York, where the thermometer rarely falls lower than 8° below zero, with the glass alone ; but in colder sections the protection of light shutters in addition, over the glass, will be necessary. In the Southern States, in dis- tricts where the thermometer never falls lower than 15° above zero, many of the har- dier green-house plants, such as Fuchsias, Geraniums, Azaleas, Camellias, Verbenas, Abutilons, etc., may be kept equally well in cold frames, as our so-called hardy plants are kept at the north. Cold Grapery. See Vitis. Cold Pits. Are identical with cold frames, except than an excavation of from two to four feet is made below the general level of the ground, so as to admit of larger plants being placed in them. The sunken pit, however, is a better protection than the cold frame on the surface ; for, when sunk to the depth of two or three feet, and covered with glass, it will resist a much heavier frost than the frames on the surface. Care must be taken that both cold frames and cold pits are well drained, either from the nature of the soil, or otherwise, as water standing in them would be destructive to the plants, whether planted in the soil or growing in pots. Co'lea. Named after General Cole, Governor of the Mauritius. Nat. Ord. Bignoniacew. There is but one species of this genus, which is found in Madagascar, Mauritius, and the adjacent islands. It is an exceedingly ornamental green-house shrub, producing large clusters of bright yellow flowers in August and September. Propagated by cut- tings. Introduced in 1839. Coleone'ma. A beautiful genus of Rutacem, from the Cape of Good Hope, related to Diosma, and consisting of very ornamental heath-like shrubs with sharp linear leaves and white flowers. Of the four known species C. Album is the most showy and best known. Coleus. From koleos, a sheath; referring to the way the bottom of the stamens or anther threads are combined. Nat. Ord. Labiatw. This somewhat extensive genus are natives of Asia and Africa. It consists of annuals, sometimes perennials, and rarely shrubs, but none of value as flowering plants but of gen- eral use in ribbon gardening, massing, or any situation where striking effect is wanted. From the original species many varieties, remarkable for their beautiful foliage, have been produced by florists. They are readily propagated by cuttings. The species were introduced about 1825. Colewort. A name applied to varieties of the Cabbage before the hearts become solid. Colic Root. See Aletris. Coliseum Ivy. See Linaria. Colla'nia. Derivation of name unknown. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacea A beautiful free-flowering green-house per- ennial, allied to Alstrameria, which it resem- bles. The species are natives of Peru and will do well in this climate with the protection of a frame. The flower stems are eiect, some- what rigid, slightly curved at the top, and AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 97 COL terminated with an umbel of large, pendulous flowers, upward of two inches long; sepals orange red, tipped with black ; petals yellow, tipped with green. Propagated by offsets. Collar. The ring upon the stipe of an Agaric. Also applied to the neck or line of junction between the root and stem of a tree, etc. Collards. (Brassica oleracea.) This is a curled- leafed variety of Cabbage grown for " greens," but mostly in the Southern States. It attains a height of from six to eight feet. This stem is an inch and a half to two inches in diameter, and is used to a considerable extent in Europe for making light walking canes. Colle'tia. Named after M. Collet, a French botanical writer. Nat Ord. Rhamnacem. A genus of singular shrubs inhabiting Chili, Peru and Mexico. They are much branched, and scantily furnished with minute leaves, having spines which stand at right angles with the stem in alternate pairs. The flowers are yellow or white, and are produced in axill- ary clusters. The species are but half-hardy in this latitude. Colli'nsia. In honor of Z. Collins, Vice-Presi- dent of the Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia. Nat. Ord. Serophulariacece. A genus of free-flowering Californian annu- als of great beauty, and deserving of culti- vation, being well adapted for massing and for mixed borders. For massing, the seed should be sown thick, so as to thin out to four inches apart, which will give the bed an ap- pearance of a solid mass. For this purpose the dwarf species are to be preferred, the taller ones being more suitable for mixed borders. There is a great variety of color, white, purple and crimson predominating. First introduced in 1826. Collinso'nia. Horse-Balm. Named in honor of Peter Collinson, a well-known patron of science and correspondent of Linnaeus, who introduced it into England. Nat. Ord. Labia- tes. A genus of strong-scented perennial herbs, common throughout the United States. None of the species has any special merit that would warrant its cultivation. Collo'mia. From kallo, glue ; referring to the glue which surrounds the seeds. Nat. Ord. Polemoniacece. A genus of hardy annuals from California. They are showy plants, but too coarse and weedy in appearance to entitle them to a place in choice collections. They grow readily from seed, and when once planted need no care except to exterminate the sur- plus quantity. Coloca'sia. Elephant's Ear. From kolokasia, the Greek for the root of an Egyptian plant. Nat. Ord. Aroidece. An interesting genus closely allied to the Caladium, most of the species being known under that name. C. macrorhiza is a beautiful green-house plant, remarkable for the bold and distinct markings of the foliage, consist- ing of light green and pure white. C. odorala has large cordate leaves, with rounded lobes, and forms a stem-like root, and a stock often two feet or more in height. It is an excellent plant for summer decoration. C. esculenta is a favorite plant for single specimens on the lawn, or for borders of a sub-tropical group, in COL a deep, rich soil. If freely watered, the leaves will sometimes grow four feet in length by three feet in width. This species and C. an- tiquorum are grown extensively in the Sand- wich Islands for food, and are called by the natives Taro, the root being eaten like Pota- toes, and the leaves cooked like Spinach. The roots are also eaten by the negroes in the Southern States, and are called by them Tan- yah. See Taro. Co'locynth. Cucumis (Citrullus) Colocynthus. This is one of the gourd family inhabiting various parts of Turkey, although it is not well ascertained in what country it is indigen- ous. It is an annual trailing and climbing plant, like the garden cucumber. The fruit is a round gourd, about the size of an orange, divided into three cells, abounding with a pulpy matter, and containing numerous seeds. The pulp is exceedingly bitter ; a decoction of this pulp in water, and then evaporated, forms the well-known extract of Colocynlh. Cologa'nia. In honor of the family of M. Cologan, of Port Oratavo, in Teneriffe, from whom the men of science, visiting that island, experienced the greatest hospitality. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A small genus of evergreen climbers, allied to the Clitoria, and requiring the same treat- ment. The flowers are of a lively purple, generally in pairs at the axils of the leaves. They are natives of Mexico. Introduced in 1827. Color, Colored. Botanically, this term is used to denote any color except green. In technical botany white is regarded as a color, but green is not. Color in Flowers, The Law of. This matter is referred to in the hope that it may be the means of saving some readers, not only from being duped and swindled by a class of itinerant venders who annually reap a rich harvest in disposing of impossibilities in flowers, but that they may be assured of the utter improbability of their ever seeing such wonders as these fellows offer, thereby saving them from parting with money for worthless objects, and from the ridicule of their friends who are already better advised. This subject cannot be too often brought before our amateur horticulturists. Warnings are given year after year in leading agricultural and other journals devoted to gardening, yet a new crop of dupes is always coming up, who readily fall victims to the scoundrels who live upon their credulity. Not a season passes but some of these swindling dealers have the audacity to plant themselves right in the business centres of our large cities, and hun- dreds of our sharp business men glide smoothly into their nets. The very men who will chuckle at the misfortunes of a poor rustic when he falls into the hands of a mock auctioneer, or pocketbook dropper, will freely pay ten dollars for a rose plant of which a picture has been shown them as having a blue flower; the chance of its coming blue being about equal to the chance that the watch of the mock auctioneer will be gold. It has long been known among the best ob- servers of such matters, that in certain families of plants particular colors prevail, and that in no single instance can we ever ex- pect to see bine, yellow, and scarlet colors in HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS COL varieties of the same species. If anyone at all conversant with plants will bring any family of them to mind, it will at once be seen how undeviating is this law. In the Dahlia we have scarlet and yellow, but no approach to blue, and so in the Rose, Hollyhock, etc. Again, in the Verbena, Salvia, etc., we have scarlet and blue, but no yellow! In the Hyacinth we have blue and a fairly good yellow, but no scarlet. Some have contended that in this family we have the combination, for of course we have crimson ; but crimson is not scarlet any more than blue is purple. If we reflect it will be seen that there is nothing out of the order of Nature in this ar- rangement. We never expect to see among our poultry, with their varied but sombre plumage, any assume the azure hues of our spring Blue-bird or the dazzling tints of the Oriole ; why, then, should we expect Nature to step out of what seems her fixed laws, and give us a blue Rose, a blue Dahlia, or a yellow Verbena? Colt's Foot. See Tussilago. Columbine. See Aquilegia. Columbo. American. See Frasera. Column. The combined stamens and styles forming a solid central body, as in Orchids, etc. Colu'mnea. Named after Fabius Columna, an Italian nobleman. Nat. Ord. Gesneracece. A small genus of curious and beautiful green- house plants, natives of New Grenada. The species are divided between climbers and shrubs. The flowers of the climbers are mostly yellow and orange ; of the shrubs, rose and purple. They are propagated by cuttings, and should be carefully watered. They will grow on blocks of wood, with moss, sus- pended in the green-house. Introduced in 1850. Colu'tea. Bladder-senna. From koloutea, a name adopted from Theophrastus. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. C. arborescens, the common bladder-senna, is a hardy deciduous shrub, with delicate Acacia-like leaves of a warm light-green color. Its flowers are small, butterfly-shaped, and yellow, produced in July or August, and are followed by large bladder-like pods, of a reddish tinge when ripe, which explode with a slight pressure. It is a native of the south of Europe, and is said to grow on the crater of Vesuvius, where there is little other vege- tation. It is increased by suckers or from seed. Combreta'ceae. A natural order of trees or shrubs, with alternate or opposite entire leaves without stipules. They are natives of the tropical parts of Asia, Africa, and America. Some of the plants are cultivated for orna- ment, and others furnish timber. They have astringent qualities, Terminalia Bellerica and T. Chebula yielding the astringent fruit called Myrobalan. The bark of Bucida Buceras is used for tanning. There are twenty-three known genera and upward of 200 species. Combretum, Terminalia, and Gyrocarpus illus- trate the order. Combre'tum. An ancient name adopted from Pliny. Nat. Ord. Combretacece. This genus contains several species, all re- markable for the elegance and brilliant colors COM of the flowers, which are produced in large panicles. They are desirable for covering the roof or columns of an extensive hot-house, and they grow well in a mixture of leaf mould and loam, requiring to be pruned back closely every winter, as it is on the young wood only that flowers are produced. Most of the species are from South America and Africa. Propa- gated by cuttings of well-ripened wood. The plant known as C. purpureum is now placed under Poivrea, which see. Comespe'rma. From kome, hair, and sperma, a seed ; in reference to the seeds being enveloped with hairs. Nat. Ord. Polygalacem. A small genus of green-house evergreen herbs or shrubs, natives of Australia. Their handsome flowers of yellow, white, or purple, borne on terminal or axillary racemes, make them desirable plants. They are easily grown in an ordinary green-house. Propagated by cuttings. Comfrey. See Symphytum. Commeli'SB. Day Flower. Named after J. and G. Commelin, famous Dutch botanists. Nat. Ord. Commelinacece. An extensive genus of annuals and peren- nials, hardy and green-house trailers, found throughout the Southern States and in South America. It is only the hardier species that can now be considered worth cultivation. C. cazlestis forms an excellent border plant. Its flowers are blue, of a brighter shade than perhaps is to be found elsewhere in the whole range of vegetable forms. The tubers of this plant should be taken up in winter, and, in- deed, receive the treatment of Dahlias, except that they do not require to be placed in any elevated temperature to induce them to start into growth. The annual species should be sown in March where they are to remain. Commelina'ceae. An extensive, widely dis- persed order of herbaceous plants, with usually flat leaves sheathing at the base. Flowers with the outer perianth of three segments, the inner also of three and colored. They are natives of New Holland, the East and West Indies, and a few are found in North America, but none in northern Asia or Europe. The underground stems of many yield starch and are used for food. The filaments of the Tradescantias have jointed hairs, in which a granular movement is seen under the micro- scope. There are sixteen known genera, and 260 species. Commelina, Tradescantia, and Cyanotis are examples of the order. Common Petiole. The first and principal leaf- stalk in compound leaves ; the secondary pet- ioles are called partial. Compare'ttia. Named after Comparetti, an Ital- ian botanist. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A genus of epiphytal Orchids, with small rose, purple, or scarlet flowers, produced in small bunches on long stalks. They are natives of Mexico and South America, and succeed best when grown on cork, with a little moss, in a shaded house. The flowers retain their beauty a long time. Introduced in 1838. Compass Plant. See Silphium. Compo'sitas, including Astera'ceae. This is the largest natural order of plants, the species occurring in all parts of the world, and in all AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. COM places, and forming a total of about equal to a tenth of the whole vegetable kingdom. They are recognized by their monopetalous flowers, growing in close heads (capitula), and having at once an inferior one-celled ovary, and sta- mens whose anthers cohere in a tube (that is, are syngenesious). De Candolle states, as the result of his examination of their natural habit, that out of 8,523, 1,229 were annuals, 243 biennials, 2,491 perennials, 2,264 under- shrubs from one to three feet high, 366 shrubs from four to fifteen feet high, 72 small trees, 4 large trees above twenty-five feet high, 81 woody plants, 126 twiners or climbers, and 1,201 about which nothing certain could be as- certained. According to Mr. Bentham, the spe- cies are nearly equally divided between the New and the Old World, there being known about 430 genera with 4,700 species in the former, and 410 genera containing 4,400 spe- cies in the latter. There are about 75 genera common to the two divisions ; but the identi- cal species in the two, and those chiefly arc- tic or high northern, are not more than 70 out of at least 9,100. The uses of the order, xeal or imaginary, are very numerous and conflicting. Some are tonic and aromatic, like Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium), and others, or vermifuges, like those other Artemisias, known in foreign pharmacy as Semencontra, or Semencine. A few are powerful irritants, as the Pellitory of Spain ( Anacyclus Pyrethrum), and various kinds of Spilanthes, which excite salivation. Arnica montana is powerfully narcotic and acrid. Similar evil qualities belong to Crepis lacera, a most venomous species, said to be no infre- quent cause of fatal consequences to those who, in the south of Europe, incautiously use it as a salad ; nor are Hieracium virosum and jH. sabandum altogether free from suspicion. Some species of Pyrethrum have the power of driving away fleas, and are largely used as insecticides, the Dalmatian and Persian In- sect Powders being from this genus. Many yield in abundance a bland oil when their seeds are crushed; such are the Sunflower (Helianthus annuus), the Til or Rhamtil ( Verbe- sinia sativa), largely cultivated in India, and Madia sativa. A purgative resin is obtained from some allies of the Thistles ; others, as Aucklandia Costus, now referred to Aplotaxis Lappa, have aromatic roots. Finally, under the name of Artichoke, Succory, Scorzonera, Endive, Salsify, and Lettuce, we have some of our most nutritious and useful esculents. Botanists adopt various modes of classifying this immense mass of species; but all are subordinate to the four following groups, viz. : Cichoraceoe,, florets all ligulate (strap shaped) ; Corymbiferm, florets tubular in the disk; Cynaracece, florets all tubular, with an articu- lation beneath the stigma ; and Labiatiflorm, florets bilabate (two-lipped). Composts. This term is applied to any mix- ture of soils and manures, either for potting purposes, or for top dressing plants in pots, or in the open ground. It may consist of dif- ferent ingredients according to the habit, or suitable to the requirement of the plants for which it is intended. Manures that by their strength would prove destructive, if applied directly to any plant, may prove beneficial when mixed to form a certain proportion of the compost. In all gardens the accumulating CON refuse of all kinds may be advantageously composted with soil and a liberal admixture of lime, which, when turned over several times during winter, and thoroughly amalga- mated, will prove a valuable top-dressing in spring for lawns or other purposes. Compound, Composite. Formed of several parts united in one common whole ; as pin- nated leaves, and all kinds of inflorescence beyond that of the solitary flower. A com- pound umbel is formed of several simple umbels, etc. Compto'nia. Sweet Fern. Named after Bishop Compton, an ardent cultivator of exotics and a great patron of botany. Nat. Ord. Myri- cacece. C. asplenifolia is a hardy deciduous shrub, common throughout the Northern States on poor soils. It is popularly known as Sweet Fern from its aromatic scent and the resem- blance of the leaves to the fronds of the Aspleni- ums. A decoction or tea made of the leaves is useful, applied externally, in cases of poisoning by the Poison Ivy. Conandron. From konos, a cone, and aner, andron, a male, an anther ; the appendages to the anthers are united in a cone around the style. Nat. Ord. GesneraceoB. C. ramondioides, the only described species, is a very pretty half-hardy herbaceous peren- nial, introduced from Japan in 1879. The flowers are white or pink, with a purple eye, and are borne on leafless scapes in a forked or corymbose cyme, which is at first drooping. It is closely allied to Ramondia, and may be increased by seeds or division. Cona'nthera. From konos, a cone, and anthera, an anther, or pollen bag ; in reference to the six anthers forming a cone in the early stage of the flower. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. This is a small genus of Chilian bulbs, but little known because of the difficulty of pre- serving them. They produce beautiful blue flowers in panicles on a stalk about one foot high, and require, like all Chilian bulbs, a light, dry soil. They will endure our climate with but little protection, if kept nearly dry during winter. They are rapidly increased by offsets. Introduced in 1823. Concave. Hollow. Concentric. Points or lines at equal distances from a common center. Condor-Vine. A common name for Gonobolus Cundurango. Cone. A dense aggregation of scale-like car- pels, arranged symmetrically round an axis, as in the Pine tribe. Cone Flower. See Rudbeckia. Conferva'ceae. A division of the green-spored Algce. Found in all parts of the world, but most numerous in temperate regions. They are sometimes so abundant that, after floods, they form a thick coat like paper on the ground, to which the name meteoric paper has been given. Confluent. The fastening together of homo- geneous parts ; gradually uniting organically. Congo Pea. See Cajanus. Coni'ferae. A large and important natuT.i order consisting of trees or snrubs, mostly with resinous secretions Thvj le.uves are 100 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF. PLANTS CON stiff, sometimes linear or needle-shaped, some- times short and scale-like, or more rarely broad, lobed, or divided. The flowers are uni- sexual, either in cylindrical or short catkins with closely packed scales, or the females are solitary. There are nearly 200 known species, distributed over a great part of the globe, several of them forming large forests in tem- perate climates, or, more rarely, within the tropics ; while some of them extend almost to the limits of woody vegetation in high lati- tudes, or at great elevations. Bentham and Hooker, divide this large family into six tribes, viz. : Abetinese, containing Abies, Ced/rus, Larix, Picea, Pinus, Pseudotsuga and Tsuga ; Araucariee, containing Agathis, Arau- caria and Cunninghamia ; Cupressineee, con- taining Arctinostrobus, Callitris, Cupressus, Fitzroya, Juniperus, Libocedrus and Thuja; Podocarpese, containing Microcachrys, Podo- carpus and Sazegothea; Taxcse, containing Dacrydium, Ginkgo, Pherosphcera, Phyllocladus, Taxus and Torreya; Taxodieee, containing Athrotaxus, Cephalotaxus, Cryptomeria, Sequoia and Taxodium. The Coniferee are very useful and important, yielding valuable timber and resin, oil, pitch and turpentine. Some attain a vast height, as Sequoia gigantea in California, specimens having been measured more than 450 feet high and 116 feet in circumference at the base. Taxodium sempervirens also attains a very great size. The Pines have their leaves in clusters of two, three, four, five or six, surrounded by a membraneous sheath at the base. Pinus sylvestris, the common Scotch Fir, abounds in cold climates, and supplies timber, turpentine and pitch, as well as a hemp-like fiber from its leaves, which is used for stuffing pillows and cushions under the name of pine wool. Pinus pinaster, or the Bordeaux Pine, thrives well on the seashore. Abies includes different species of Fir and Spruce, in all of which the leaves come off from the stem and branches singly. Abies excelsais the Norway Spruce, and A.balsamea is the Balm of GileadFir; Picea pectinata the Silver Fir; Pseudotsuga Canadensis is the Hemlock Spruce; Cedrus comprises those Cedars which have clustered persistent leaves. Cedrus Libani is the Cedar of Lebanon, the Eres of the Bible ; Cedrus Deodara is the sacred Cedar of India. Larix includes the species of Larch, which have clustered de- ciduous leaves. Larix Europea is the Euro- pean Larch ; L. Americana is the American Larch, commonly called Hackmatack ; L. Griffithii is the Himalayan Larch. The Araucarias have single-seeded scales, with ad- herent seeds and many-celled anthers. Arau- caria imbricata is a Chilian species ; A. Bid- willii is from Moreton Bay ; both have edible seeds ; A. excelsa, which yields valuable wood, is the Norfolk Island Pine. Cryptomeria Japonica is the Japan Cedar, of which there are several beautiful forms. Cupressus semper- virens is the common Cypress. The Junipers have a peculiar succulent fruit. Juniperus Bermudiana and J. Virginiana furnish the Cedar for lead pencils. The species of Thuja are known by the name of Arbor Vitse. Co'nhun. Ppison Hemlock. From konao to "• whirl around ; in reference to the giddiness , , caused by eating the leaves. Nat. Ord. Um- bcllifer'd'. CON This genus is almost identical with Cicuta, or Water Hemlock. C. maculatum is a strong- growing, branching herb, the juices of which are very poisonous. Common in marshy places. Naturalized from Europe. Connate. When the bases of two opposite leaves are united together. Also when any parts, originally distinct, become united in after-growth. Connivent. Converging; having a gradually inward direction. Conocli'nium. Mist-Flower. From konos, a cone, and Mine, a bed ; from the conical receptacle. Nat. Ord. Compositm. C. ccelestinum, the only species of much in- terest, is a hardy herbaceous perennial, with terminal corymbs of violet purple or blue flowers, common in the Southern and Western States. It is commonly called Eupatorium, from which it differs only in the receptacle, and is rapidly increased by division or from seed. Cono'pholis. Squaw Root, Cancer Boot. From konos, a cone, and pholis, a scale ; resembling a fir cone. Nat. Ord. Orobanchacece. C. Americana is a very singular little plant, common in oak woods, growing in clusters among fallen leaves. The plant is a fleshy herb, chestnut-colored or yellowish through- out, and as thick as a man's thumb. The stem is without leaves, scaly and generally simple. The flowers are in terminal spikes, and not showy. In this country it is popularly known as Cancer Boot, from its supposed medicinal properties. Conoste'phium. From konos, a cone, and Stephanos, a crown ; referring to the disposi- tion of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Epacridacem. A genus of fruit-bearing Epacridacece, val- ued for its beautiful flowers by gardeners who delight in growing plants that can only be grown with the greatest difficulty ; to which class this plant belongs. The fruit, though wholesome, is not generally liked. The Na- tive Currant of New Holland belongs to this section. Propagated by cuttings. Introduced from Swan River in 1836. Cono'stylis. From konos, a cone, and stylos, a style ; the style, or female organ, grows in the shape of a cone at the bottom. Nat. Ord. H&modoracece. A small genus of green-house herbaceous perennials from New Holland, rather orna- mental, but not of sufficient merit for general cultivation. Propagated by division of the roots. Conservatory. The term usually applied to a green-house structure when attached to the dwelling-house, or when it is used as a house wherein specimen plants are grown or dis- played ; it is usually of an ornamental char- acter and of various sizes. When detached, a convenient size is twenty feet wide by fifty feet in length, with side sashes and curvili- near roofs sloping equally to east and west at an angle of about 35 degrees. The height from the floor to the ridge may be from twelve to fifteen feet, according to circumstances, The height of the front, including three feet of glass, from five to six feet. Constricted. Lightened, or contracted in some particular place. COL0CAS1A (CALADIUM) ESCULENTA. COECHICUM ATJTUMNALE. . COIXINSIA. CEKOPEOIA ELEGANB. COLCHIC0M PAKKINSONI, COLOCASIA FRAGRANS. COSMIDIUM AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 101 CON Contiguous. Where two neighboring parts are in contact through the whole length of their edges or surfaces ; as the sepals of Raphanus and the cotyledons of many species of plants. Contorted. Twisted back upon itself ; arranged so as to overlap other parts. Convalla'ria. Lily of the Valley. From the Latin convallis, a valley, and rica, a mantle ; in reference to the dense covering formed by the leaves. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. The Lily of the Valley, C. majalis, is a plant so well known, and such a universal favorite, that little need be said by way of description, unless we add that of Gerarde in 1596, which is as follows : " The Lilly of the Vally hath many leaves like the smallest leaves of Water Plantaine, among which riseth vp a naked stalke, halfe a foot high, garnished with many white floures, like bels, with blunt and turned edges, of a strong savour, yet pleasant enoughf, which being past, there come small, red berries, much like the berries of aspara- gus, wherein the seed is contained." A mod- ern writer in the Treasury of Botany says : " Without poetical or fanciful conventional- ities, the Lily of the Valley is as perfect an emblem of purity, modesty and humility as the floral world can afford. It may seem idle to observe that a flower of this description cannot be that referred to in the sermon on the mount ; but as that opinion is frequently broached in popular works, it may simply be observed that it never grows in the open field, and that there is nothing in its array to which the term ' glory ' is applicable. Not a little unprofitable commentary might have been spared if the same general meaning had been attached to the term 'Lilies of the Field,' which has, by common consent, been ascribed to the parallel phrase, 'Fowls of the Air,' while the passage itself would have gained in force and dignity by being kept clear from botanical disquisitions." The flowers of the Lily of the Valley are used during the winter months in immense quantities, New York city alone probably using a million, the average price of which is about five cents each, so that for this flower alone $50,000 is annually paid by the bouquet makers to the florist, the con- sumer paying, no doubt, one-third more. The Lily of the Valley is nearly all imported from Germany and France, usually in single crowns or " pips." The method of culture is to place these 'thickly together in shallow boxes as soon as received in November, placing them in a cold frame or in the open ground, cover- ing them up so that they do not get severely frozen. They should remain in this condition at least four weeks before they are brought in to force, which should be done gradually, beginning at 50° and running up to 65° or 70°. If taken every few weeks, a succession may be kept up from January until May. In fact, the flowers are now to be had all the year round, as some growers find it sufficiently profitable to keep the roots in refrigerators, and, thus retarded, they are forced to bloom at will at any time during the summer or fall months. This same system might be used with many other plants, but it is only in very valuable flowers such as this that the expense . would be justified. The plant does well in the garden, and may be put under the shade CON of trees; but wherever placed, the roots should not be disturbed for several years, if at all, as many clumps will not otherwise bloom. Propagated by division. Convex. Rising in a circular form. Convolute. When one part is wholly rolled up in another, as in the petals of the Wallflower, or the spathe of an Arum. Convolvula'ceee. A natural order of herbs or shrubs, usually twining, and with a milky juice, having alternate leaves, without stip- ules, and regular flowers, the flower stalks (peduncles) bearing one or many flowers. They are abundant in tropical countries and rare in cold climates. They twine around other plants and creep among weeds, etc., along the seashore. The plants are characterized chiefly by their purgative qualities, and many of them are used medicinally. Jalap is produced from the root or underground stem of Exogo- nium {Ipomcm) purga, while the gum resin called Scammony is produced by Convolvulus scammonia. Ipomoza Bona-nox, which pro- duces its pure white flowers at night, is the Moon-creeper of Ceylon and other warm coun- tries. Ipomoza (Calonyction) grandiflora is the plant so widely known and distributed as the Moon-flower. Batatas edulis, the Sweet Po- tato, or Batatas, is cultivated in the United States, Japan and China, and also in Spain and Portugal. In the Philippine Islands the Batatas or Camotes are used for making soup, as well as roasted. This order comprises forty-six known genera and nearly 700 species. Convolvulus, Ipomoza, Calystegia, Exogonium, Batatas and Pharbitis are illustrative genera. Convo'lvulus. From convolvere, to entwine ; in reference to their twining habit. Nat. Ord. Convolvulacem. Well-known, splendid climbing plants, hardy and half-hardy, annual and perennial. They should be trained against stakes or trellis- work, as their stems are too feeble to support themselves. Most of the tender kinds of Convolvulus were separated from it by Lin- neeus, and formed into the genus Ipomoza. All the tender kinds may be made to flower in the open air during summer, and the more hardy species only require sowing in the open ground. C. Mauritanicus is a prostrate, twin- ing perennial species having blue flowers, with a white throat and yellow anthers. It is a most useful plant for hanging-baskets, etc. C. minor (tricolor), a dwarf-growing species, is a native of Spain and Portugal. The flowers are often pure white, but generally variegated with blue and yellow, or blue and white ; the more beautiful kind is a bright blue, gradually changing to a pure white in the center. The form of this flower is no less beautiful than the color. The plant spreads with much reg- ularity in every direction from the center, so that a bed of them, with the plants two feet apart each way, will form a compact mass resembling a single plant. It is scarcely exceeded in elegance by any plant in the bor- der when in full flower. The flowers continue open all day if pleasant, but close in case of rain. Seed should be sown as soon as the ground can be got in order in spring. If started in the green-house in pots it makes a charming plant for hanging-baskets, rustic work, or the window. This species has been noticed for more than 250 years in Herbals. 102 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS. CON Cony'za. A genus of Compositor, consisting of herbaceous or shrubby plants of little general interest. They were formerly supposed to have the power, when suspended in a room, of driving away fleas, hence the English name Plea-bane, a name given also to an allied genus. Coope'ria. Named after Mr. Cooper, gardener for many years at Wentworth House, in York- shire, England. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. A small genus of bulbous plants from Texas, allied to the Zephyranthes. C. Drummondi, typical of the species, has narrow, twisted leaves twelve to eighteen inches long, and a scape six to twelve inches high, bearing at the end a single flower, of which the tube is upward of four inches long, of a greenish color, and the limb upward of an inch long and pure white. The flower always expands in the evening, and is not usually perfect after the first night. The nocturnal flowering of this plant is an anomaly in the order, and the more remarkable because its nearest relatives require full sunshine to make them expand. The flower has the fragrance of the Primrose. These bulbs are half-hardy, and will endure our winters with a slight protection if grown in a light, sandy soil, which is the one best suited to them. For effect they should be planted in clumps, and quite close together. Propagated by offsets. Introduced in 1835. Cooper's "Wood. See Pornaderris. Copaiba Balsam. The name of the balsam pro- duced by Copaifera officinalis. Copa'ifera. From the Brazilian name copaiba, and fero, to bear. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. A tender evergreen tree, native of Brazil, valuable only for the medicinal properties of the balsam it yields. Copro'sma. From copros, dung, and osme, a smell. The plants have a fetid smell. Nat. Ord. Rubiaceai. A small genus of green-house evergreen shrubs of easy culture, and of little interest except in their own country, where the leaves are used by the New Zealand priests to dis- cover the will of the gods. The leaves are attached with a cord of flax to sticks, which are laid on the ground, each stick represent- ing a separate party. The priests retire to pray, and after a time the chiefs are sum- moned to examine the sticks, which are found to have been moved, and some have disap- peared entirely. This is considered a certain sign that one of the party will be destroyed. Others are found turned over. If the leaf be turned down the omen is bad; but if the reverse should occur, it is a sign that the party represented by the stick will prosper in his undertakings. C. Baueriana variegata is a strikingly beautiful plant for the green-house and conservatory, or for a place on the lawn in summer. Propagated by cuttings. Co'ptis. Gold-thread. From kopto, to cut ; in reference to the division of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Ranunculacem. C. trifolia, the only species, is a beautiful little evergreen herb, with creeping root- stocks, common in boggy places from Mary- land northward. The long, bright yellow fibres of the root have caused it to receive the common name of Gold-thread. The roots are very bitter, and are used in medicine as a tonic. It formerly held a prominent place COR among domestic remedies, and was considered invaluable for sore mouths in children. Coral Bead Plant. Abrus precatorius. Coral Bush. See Ternpletonia. Coral Cactus. A popular name for Rhipsalis. Coral Honeysuckle. A local name of Lonicera sempervirens, which is also called Trumpet Honeysuckle. Corallorhi'za. Coral Root. Said to be from korallion, a coral, and rhisa, a root. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A genus of curious little Orchids, common in wet or boggy places throughout the United States. Their leaves are like small scales, of a yellowish color, like their stems ; the flow- ers are small, in a loose terminal spike. C. innata, one of the more common species, is a slender plant, from six to nine inches high, of a pale color, and remarkable for its root-stalk, which is formed of a number of short, thick, whitish fleshy fibres, divided into short, blunt branches, and densely interwoven, resembling coral; hence the popular name. All the spe- cies are incapable of cultivation, or, at least, they so rarely live when removed that it is considered a useless task to attempt it. Coral Root. See Corallorhiza. Coral Tree. See Erythrina. Corbula'ria. From corbula, a little basket ; in reference to the shape of the nectary. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacem. A small genus, commonly called Hoop Petti- coats, which has recently been separated from Narcissus. The species are quite ornamental and perfectly hardy, but, like most of what are usually termed "Dutch Bulbs," they do best with a slight protection of leaves or coarse manure. It is a native of Portugal, and is propagated by offsets. Introduced in 1629. Co'rchorus. From kore, a pupil, and koreo, to purge ; in allusion to the laxative qualities of some of the species. Nat. Ord. Tiliacea. An extensive genus of annuals and herba- ceous plants, inhabitants of both hemispheres. As ornamental or flowering plants they are of little value. C. capsularis is much grown in many sections of India for the exceedingly valuable fibre it yields, which is known under the name of Jute, and which forms an impor- tant article of commerce. Cordate. Heart-shaped in outline ; applied to a plane or flat body having two round lobes at the base. Cord Grass. See Spartina. Co'rdia. A genus of Borraginacece, containing nearly two hundred species, scattered over the tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world. They are principally trees or shrubs, some of them of considerable beauty. Some species supply useful and ornamental timber ; the wood of C. Rumphi is brown, beautifully veined with black, and smells of musk. The wood of C. myxu is soft, and is reckoned one of the best kinds for kindling fire by friction, and it is said to be the wood which was used by the Egyptians in constructing their mummy cases. Cordyli'ne. Club Palm. From kordyle, a club. Nat. Ord. Liliacem. A genus of green-house evergreen shrubs, allied to Dracama. The type, C. indivisa, has usually been sold in this country under the AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 103 COR name of Dracaena indivisa. It is an exceed- ingly useful plant for large specimens upon the lawn, or for jardinieres, baskets, or vases, as it will withstand some neglect and thrive where many other plants would perish. This species was introduced from New Zealand in 1850, and is propagated from seed, which should be sown in boxes on bottom heat, or in the green -house. As soon as the plants are three inches high, prick out in small pots. The young plants require a high temperature and liberal waterings. Seedlings of this species vary very much in character, and many desirable varieties, such as C. indivisa Veitchii, atropurpurea, lineata, etc., are in culti- vation. C. Australia is also a most useful species, the leaves being broader and more drooping and graceful than the foregoing. A number of the species and varieties cultivated as Dracaenas, are placed under this genus by many botanists, they being nearly all varieties of C. terminalis (Dracmna), a species cultivated everywhere throughout the tropics, and pro- ducing innumerable varieties from seed. Coreo'psis. From koris, a bug, and opsis, like ; referring to the appearance of the seeds. Nat. Ord. Composite. Most of the showy annuals formerly known by this name are now called Calliopsis, while most of the perennial sp'ecies are still left in this genus. The perennial kinds are quite hardy, the taller sorts requiring plenty of room, but such free-flowering, showy gems as C. auriculata, C. lanceolata, and C tenuifolia should have prominent positions. They are valuable also for cutting, as the closer the blooms are cut, the more they flower. They are propagated by division of the roots, or from seed, which, if sown where it is to re- main, as soon as ripe, will flower early the fol- lowing summer. The many species are found from South Carolina southward to Mexico. Coriaceous. Having the consistence of leather. Coria'ndrum. Coriander. From koris, a bug; referring to the smell of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Umbellifera. C. sativum,, the only species, is a hardy annual, and a native of the south of Europe. It is a plant of little beauty, and of the easiest culture. It is grown only for its seeds, which are quite aromatic, and much used in flavor- ing. The odor and taste depend upon a volatile oil. Co'ris Monspeliensis. The only species of the genus, a native of the western coasts of the Mediterranean is a lowly-branching herbaceous plant, bearing beautiful bright lilac flowers in dense terminal spicate racemes. It belongs to the Primrose family, and is an excellent plant for the rock-garden. Increased by seed, sown as soon as ripe. Cork Tree. Common. Quercus suber. E. Indian. Adansonia digitata. Cork "Wood. Hibiscus iiliaceus. West Indian. Ochroma Lagopus, and Anona palustris, which see. Corm. A fleshy, solid underground stem, hav- ing the appearance of and often called a bulb, and from which it is distinguished by its not being scaly. The Gladiolus, Crocus, Babiana, Sparaxis, etc., are Corms. Corn. See Zea. COR Corna'ceae. A small natural order of trees and shrubs, rarely herbs, natives of the temperate parts of Europe, Asia, and America. The plants are used as tonics and in agues. From the wood of C. mascula, the Turks obtain the dye for their red fez. Some species are grown as ornamental plants, and the common Dogwood, which is very heavy and solid, is much too commonly used in the United States for baling hay, those who buy the hay very properly esteeming it a fraudulent practice. There are nine known genera and forty spe- cies. Comus, Aucuba, and Benthamia are illustrative genera. Corn Flag. Gladiolus segetum. Corn-flower. Blue. Centaurea Cyanus. Corn-Lily. Convolvulus arvensis and C Se- ptum. Corn-Marigold. Chrysanthemum segetum. Corn Pink and Corn Cockle. Lychnis Githago. Corn Poppy. Papaver Rhwas. Corn Salad. See Valerianella, Corn Thistle. Carduus arvensis. Cornel. Comus sanguinea. Dwarf. Cornus suecica and C. Canadensis. Corniculate. Terminating in a process resem- bling a horn, as the fruit of Trapa bicornis. If there are two horns the word bicornis is used ; if three horns, tricornis, and so on. Co'rnus. Dogwood. From cornu, a horn; in reference to the hardness of the wood. Nat. Ord. Cornaceaz. A genus consisting principally of trees and shrubs. Some of the latter are very orna- mental, the bark of the branches being of a brilliant, glossy red in winter, and the leaves of an intense purplish red in autumn. C. florida, or Flowering Dogwood, is a tree grow- ing from twelve to thirty feet high, and is common in rocky woods from New York south- ward. It is an interesting species, not only for its symmetrical growth, but for its large snowy flowers, or rather the involucres which surround the flowers (which are pure white inside and tinged with violet on the outside), and the showy fruit which succeeds them. It is an appropriate and popular tree for ceme- teries and a fine ornament for the lawn. C. Canadensis, Bunch Berry, or Dwarf Cornel, is a small herbaceous species, growing about six inches high, from a creeping subterranean root-stock, the upper leaves crowded into an apparent whorl in sixes and fours, surround- ing the clear white floral involucres — one of the neatest and most interesting plants for the rock-garden. It is common in damp, cold woods northward. Corolla. That part of a flower which intervenes between the calyx and the stamens. Its parts, which are called petals, are almost always colored. Corolliflo'rae. A sub-class of Dicotyledons or Exogens, characterized by the petals being united, so as to form a monopetalous corolla, inserted below the ovary, and by the stamens being usually attached to the corolla, but sometimes inserted separately below the ovary. Such orders as the Heath family, the Gentians and the Labiates may serve as illus- trations. 104 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS COR Corona. A coronet; literally a crown. Any appendage that intervenes between the corolla and stamens, as the cup of a Daffodil or the rays of a Passion Flower, or the crown-like cup which is found at the orifice of the tube of the corolla of the Narcissus, etc. Corona staminea, is a coronet formed from trans- formed stamens. Coroni'lla. From corona, a crown or garland ; in reference to the arrangement of the flow- ers. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A genus of pretty annual and perennial plants found in Europe, Asia Minor and north Africa, but in the greatest abundance in coun- tries bordering on the Mediterranean Sea. Several of the green-house species are very pretty flowering shrubs of easy culture. C. glauca produces its bright yellow, pea-shaped flowers in abundance during the winter, and with its beautiful variegated variety is invalu- able for winter green-house decoration. Prop- agated by cuttings or from seeds, which ripen freely. Corpse Plant. One of the popular names of the Monotropa uniflora, a low-growing para- site on roots, or growing on decomposing vegetable matter, like a fungus. It is also called Indian Pipe. Co'rrea. Named after Joseph Correa, a Portu- guese botanist. Nat. Ord. Rutacece. A genus of green-house evergreen shrubs, natives of New South "Wales, New Holland and Australia, where they are sometimes called Fuchsias, from the slight resemblance the flowers have to the Fuchsia. Several of the species have long been grown in green- houses for the beauty of their flowers, which are white , scarlet or green ; produced in June. The leaves of C. alba are said to be a very good substitute for tea. They are increased by cuttings. Introduced in 1793. Corrugated. When the parts are crumpled up irregularly, as the petals of the Poppy or the skin of some seeds. Cortex. The bark or cortical layer. Corticate. Like bark ; harder externally than internally ; having a rind, as the orange. Corya'nthes. Helmet Flower. From korys, a helmet, and anthos, a flower ; in reference to the shape of the lip or labellum. Nat. Ord. OrchidacecB. A genus of epiphytal Orchids found in Mex- ico and South America. Among the many curious forms peculiar to this genus, perhaps the most singular is that of C. macrantha, which is thus described in the Botanical Reg- ister : " The plant has the habit of a Stanhopea, and pushes forth from the base of its pseudo- bulbs a pendulous scape, on which two or three flowers are developed. Each flower is placed at the end of a long, stiff, cylindrical- furrowed ovary, and when expanded measures something more than six inches from the tip of one sepal to that of the opposite one. The sepals and petals are nearly of the same color, being of an ochrey yellow, spotted irregularly with dull purple. The lip is as fleshy and solid in its texture as the sepals and petals are delicate. It is seated on a deep purple stalk, nearly an inch long ; this stalk terminates in a hemispherical, greenish-purple cup or cap ; and the latter, contracting at its front edge, extends forward into a sort of second stalk of COR a very vivid blood-color, the sides of which are thinner than the center, turned back, and marked with four or five very deep, solid, sharp-edged plaits. These edges again expand and form a second cup, less lobed than the first, thinning away very much to the edges, of a broadly conical figure, with a diameter of at least two inches at the orifice ; this second cup is of an ochrey yellow, streaked and spotted with pale crimson, and seems intended to catch a watery secretion, which drips into it from the succulent horns, taking their origin in the base of the column, and hanging over the center of the cup." There are several species of the genus, all of which must be grown in a hot house. Propagated by division. They flower in June and July. Cory'dalis. From korydalos, a lark; the spur of the flower resembling that of the lark. Nat. Ord. Fumariacece. A handsome genus of hardy tuberous root- ed, herbaceous plants. Their flowers are showy, and of many shades of color. They need an open exposure. The perennial kinds may be increased by division of the tubers about every three years. C. nobilis, a native of Siberia, is one of the most beautiful and early flowering of light yellow colored hardy border plants. The annual species require to be sown in March where they are to remain. Several of the species are indigenous, grow- ing in rocky places, and grow from one to three feet high, bearing flowers of various colors. They are easily propagated by seeds, and are very pretty plants for rock-work. Coryla'cese. This order founded by Lindley, of which the principal genera are Carpinus, Corylus, Castanea, Fagus, and Quercus, is now included under Cupuliferaz. Corylo'psis. From korylos, the Hazel tree, and opsis, like ; nut-like. Nat. Ord. Hamameli- dacem. Very ornamental and interesting, hardy deciduous shrubs ; in habit, leaves and inflor- escence resembling Hazels. Flowers appearing before the leaves in pendulous racemes, each flower nearly sessile with a large sheathing yellow bract. Natives of the Himalayas and Japan. Co'rylus. Hazel-nut, Filbert. From korys, a hood or helmet; in reference to the calyx covering the nut. Nat. Ord. Corylacece. This well-known deciduous shrub, is com- mon throughout this country and Europe. The species that yields the Filbert of com- merce, C. Avellana, is found growing in great abundance near Avellana, a city of Naples, whence the specific name. It is a strong grow- ing shrub from ten to fifteen feet high. The Filbert is monoecious; the male catkins make their appearance in Sep- tember, on the previous year's growth, but are not fully developed or expanded until the succeeding season, when the female flowers appear about the first of February, and in April they are in full flower. The flowers are small and of a beautiful red color. The fruit of this species forms an important article of export from Naples. C. Colurna, a native of Turkey and Asia, is a tall-growing tree, often reaching a height of sixty feet. The nuts are larger than those of the preceding species, and are of excellent quality. This country is represented by two species, C AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 105 COR Americana being our common Hazel-nut. The fruit is smaller and thicker-shelled than the European species. Corymb. A raceme whose pedicels grow grad- ually shorter as they approach the summit, so that the result is a flat-headed inflorescence or flower head, as in Candytuft, etc. A Com- pound corymb is a branched corymb, each of whose divisions is corymbose. Corymbi'ferae. Corymb - bearing composite plants, a sub-order of the natural order Com- posite, containing plants with numerous flowers on a common receptacle, forming a head surrounded by a set of floral leaves or bracts called an involucre. Such plants as Chamomile, Ox-eye Daisy, Dahlia, Sunflower, Cineraria, Ragwort, Groundsel, etc., belong to this sub-order. Coryno'stylis. From koryne, a club, and stylos, a column; alluding to the club-shaped style. Nat. Ord. Violacea. A small genus of very handsome climbing shrubs, inhabiting tropical America. C. albi- flora, is a beautiful green-house plant of a trailing or climbing habit, producing white, trumpet-shaped flowers, about two inches in length, suspended on long thread- like peduncles. These interesting flowers, taken in profile, present the appearance of some long-spurred Tropseolum, while on the front view they bear a resemblance to those of a gigantic Violet. Increased by cuttings of the young wood, or by seeds. Introduced from Para, in 1870. Co'rypha. Fan Palm. From koryphe, the sum- mit; in reference to the leaves growing in tufts on the top of this Palm. Nat. Ord. Pal- macecR. A noble genus of Palms, growing from fif- teen to one hundred and fifty feet high. They are chiefly natives of tropical Asia. The Talipot Palm, C. umbraculifera, is a native of Ceylon and the Malabar coast, where it usually grows sixty to seventy feet high. The leaves have prickly stalks six or seven feet long, and when fully expanded they form a nearly complete circle of thirteen feet in diameter. Large fans are made of these leaves, which are carried before people of rank among the Cingalese. They are also commonly used as umbrellas, and tents are made by neatly joining them together, being the only ones in use for the soldiers of that country. It bears no fruit until the last year of its life, when it throws out great branches of beautiful yellow flowers that emit a most disagreeable odor. The fruit is borne in great abundance, is very hard and round, and about the size of a large cherry. From these the plant is propagated, and requires great heat and a humid atmosphere to grow it success- fully. This species was introduced in 1742. C. australis is synonymous with Livistona australis. Corysa'nthus. From koryos, a helmet, and anthos, a flower ; flowers helmet-shaped. Nat. Ord. Orchidacem. A genus of small but pretty terrestrial swamp orchids, inhabiting Australia and Java, but little seen in cultivation. Cosma'nthus A genus now merged in Phacelia, which see. COT Cosme'lia. From kosmeo, to adorn ; in reference to the beauty of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Epacri- dacea. The only species, C. rubra, is a beautiful dwarf green-house plant, with bright red flowers resembling those of an Epacris, but larger and more swollen in the middle of the tube. It requires to have plenty of air, and is improved by frequent stopping while young. Propagated freely from cuttings. Cosmidi'um. A genus of hardy annuals, re- cently formed from Calliopsis, having the same general character, and under which it is usually described. Syn. Thelesperma. Co'smos. From kosmos, beautiful ; in reference to the ornamental flowers. Nat. Ord. Com- posite. Mexican plants, generally grown as annuals, but which mostly have tuberous roots like the Dahlia, and may be treated like that plant. The flowers are very showy, and of a reddish purple ; the seeds, when the plants are grown as annuals, should be sown in March or April, in a frame or green-house ; or in autumn, if the young plants can be protected during winter. The plants will grow four or five feet high in any garden soil. The beautiful annual species C. bipinnatus, has very finely cut featherly foliage, and large single Dahlia- like flowers, ranging in color from white, to deep rose. An excellent autumn blooming sort, and valuable for cutting. If grown in pots, and housed by the end of September, it will give a succession of flowers all winter. Introduced in 1799. Cossi'gnia. Named after M. Cossigny, a French naturalist. Nat. Ord. Sapindacew. There are but two known species in this genus, both small evergreen trees, with pin- nate leaves, with from one to three pairs of oblong leaflets and an odd one. The upper surface of the leaves is richly veined with golden yellow, the under surface covered witn short white down. The flowers are small, white, and are arranged in terminal panicles. They were introduced from the Mauritius in 1824. Propagated by cuttings. Costa. The midrib of a leaf ; that part which is a direct extension of the petiole, and whence the veins arise ; a leaf may have several costce. Costmary, or Alecost. Tanacetum Balsamita. Co'stus. An ancient name adopted from Pliny. Nat. Ord. Scitaminacew. A genus of tropical herbaceous perennials, having tuberous roots, somewhat fleshy leaves, and flowers in spikes with over- lapping bracts. C. speciosus is a very ornamental warm green-house plant, with white flowers, and leaves silky beneath. Its roots are used by the natives in India to make a kind of preserve. They are of easy culture and are propagated by division of the roots. Cotonea'ster. From Cotonea. Pliny's name for the quince, in reference to the downy leaves of this genus being similar to the quince. Nat. Ord. Rosacem. A genus of half-hardy, deciduous and ever- green trees, upright and trailing shrubs, in- habiting the northern parts of Europe and the mountains of India. The leaves are small and entire at the edge, downy beneath ; the flowers are white or pinkish, and produced in lateral clusters, like those of hawthorn, or 106 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS COT singly, and are succeeded by scarlet, and occa- sionally black, berry-like fruit. Loudon says : "The species are very desirable from the beauty of their foliage, flowers, and fruit.. C. frigida and C. affinis in particular, producing fruit in great abundance, of an intense scarlet color, which have a splendid appearance, and remain on the trees the greater part of the winter." C. microphylla is a yet more valua- ble plant. In this species the branches are trailing, the leaves small and evergreen. It is perfectly hardy and wherever it grows, ornamental; its deep glossy foliage, which no cold will impair, is, when the plant is in flower, covered with snow-white blossoms, rendering it a very desirable plant for rock- work, etc. This species is a native of Nepaul, and was introduced 1825. Cotton. See Gossypium. Cotton-Grass. The common name of the genus Eriophorum. Cotton Rose. Filago Germanica. Cotton Thistle. See Onopordon. Cotton Tree, Silk. See Bombax. Cotton-Wood. See Populus. Cotyle'don. Navelwort. From kotyle, a cav- ity ; in allusion to the cup-like leaves. Nat. Ord. Crassulacece. A genus of succulent plants, with fleshy leaves, nearly allied to the House-leek, and bearing red or yellow flowers. They are plants of no great beauty, but like all succu- lent plants, are very interesting. The orna- mental species are all from the Cape of Good Hope, and were first introduced in 1690. They are propagated by cuttings and leaves, and require an open, sandy soil. Under this one genus several botanists now include Echeverva, Pachyphytum, Pistorinia, and Umbil- licus. The differences are at the best merely botanical ; the culture of the groups is iden- tical. Cotyledons. The seed lobes ; the primordial leaves in the rudimentary plant or embryo ; the fleshy leaves that appear above ground when a seedling plant begins to grow, com- monly called seed leaves. Monocotyledons have only one such leaf, as Grasses, Lilies, Palms, etc. ; Dicotyledons have two, as the Maple, Elm, Pea, Bean, etc. Couch-Grass. The popular name of Triticum repens. Coulte'ria. In honor of Thomas Coulter, M.D., a botanical author. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A genus of ornamental hot-house shrubs, that grow from twelve to fifteen feet high, and produce an abundance of yellow and orange flowers. Their size prevents them from be- ing grown except in botanical collections. The wood of some of the species is used in dyeing. Couta'rea. From coutari, its name in Guiana. Nat. Ord. Rubiacece. This fine evergreen tree is allied to Cinchona. It requires the same treatment, and its bark has much the same medicinal properties. Cowa'nia. In commemoration of the services rendered to botany by the late Mr. James Cowan, a merchant, who introduced a num- ber of plants from Mexico and Peru. Nat. Ord. Rosacea. CRA C plicata, the only species, is worth far more attention than it has hitherto received. Its flowers are large and handsome, resem- bling those of a Rose. They are bright red, and, in addition, the plant is a shrub of ro- bust character, nearly hardy, requiring only to be protected from severe frosts. Propa- gated by division. It is a native of Mexico. Cowbane. The popular name given the genus Archemora, reputed to be an active poison, particularly to cattle, if eaten by them. It is quite common in swampy grounds, from New York to Illinois and southward. It is also called Wild Parsnip. Cowberry. One of the common names of Vac- cinium, which see. Cow-Herb. See Vaccaria. Cow-Itch. See Mucuna. Cow-Parsnip. The common name of Herac- leum, a coarse growing, weedy plant, some- times used in medicine, but of doubtful repu- tation. Cowrie Pine, Dammara australis. Cowslip. See Primula. American. Dodecatheon Meadia. Cow-Tree. See Brosimum. Cow Vetch. Vicia Cracca. Cow Wheat. The genus Melampyrum. Crab -Apple. See Pyrus. Crab-Grass. Called also Dog's Tail, or Wire- Grass, popular names of the genus Eleusine, a native of India, but extensively naturalized in this country. Crab's Claw Cactus, See Epiphyllum. Crab's Eyes. The seeds of Abrus precatorius. Cra'mbe. Sea-Kale. The name crambe is de- rived from the Greek name for Sea-cabbage. Nat. Ord. Crucifera. A genus of hardy perennials. C. maritima, the best known species, is a native of the west coast of England, where it grows in great abundance in the clean sand and gravel. The common people have from time imme- morial, been in the practice of watching the appearance of the shoots and leaf-stalks closely, as they appear in early spring, when they cut them off under ground in the same manner as we do Asparagus. These young shoots, when cooked, are by many con- sidered superior to either Asparagus or Cauli- flower. Sea-Kale is only fit for use in a blanched state, which is easily done. In early spring the crowns should be covered with sand, or some light mulching that will exclude the young shoot from light, the cover- ing being from twelve to fifteen inches in depth. By the time the young leaves are through this mulching they will be perfectly blanched and fit for use. It is a common practice with gardeners to cover the crowns with an inverted flower-pot, and by others the whole bed is covered with manure. Either plan will prove satisfactory. See " Forcing Vegetables." Sea-Kale is increased by seed or root cuttings, the latter plan being preferable. The roots should be taken up in the fall, cut in pieces two to three inches long, and these placed in boxes of sand in a dry cellar until the weather is settled in spring, when they may be planted out in rows, three feet apart, and about nine inches AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 107 CRA between the plants. With this treatment many of the crowns, under favorable circum- stances, will be strong enough to yield a crop the next season. Cranberry. See Oxycoccus. Cranberry -Tree. See Viburnum opulus. Crane-fly Orchis. See Tipularia. Cranesbill. See Geranium. Crape Myrtle. See Lagerstrcemia. Cra'ssula. A diminutive of crassus, thick ; in reference to the fleshy leaves and stems. Nat. Ord. CrassulacecB. Succulent green-house plants, natives of the Cape of Good Hope, with heads of red or white flowers. All the Crassulas should have alternate seasons of stimulus and repose. When they are growing, and about to flower, they should be well watered, and when the flowers begin to fade, the supply of water should be gradually lessened, till at last very little is given. The plants are propagated by cuttings, which should be laid on a shelf two or three days to dry before planting, or they may rot. Most of the species are from the Cape of Good Hope, and have been in cultiva- tion more than a century. Crassula'ceae. An extensive natural order consisting generally of succulent herbs or shrubs. Natives of dry places in all parts of the world. They are found on rocks, old walls or hot, sandy plains, exposed to the heaviest dews at night, and the scorching rays of the mid-day sun. Some species are astringent. Sedum acre is very acrid, and is hence called Wall Pepper. Sempervivum tec- torum, the House-leek, is so called from being grown in some places on the tops of houses. Bryophyllum calycinum possesses the property of producing leaf-buds along the margins of its leaves. There are over fourteen genera, in- cluding Crassula, Sedum, Sempervivum, Pen- thorum, etc., and over 400 species. Cratae'gus. The Hawthorn. From kratos, strength; in reference to the strength and hardness of the wood. Nat. Ord. Rosacea. A well known family of moderate-sized trees, commonly called thorns. They are found throughout the United States, Europe and the temperate regions of Asia and Africa. There is a great resemblance to each other in all the species, both as to the shape of the leaves and color of the flowers. The English Hawthorn, C. oxyacantha, so commonly used as a hedge plant, will not stand the severity of our winters, at least much north of New York, with a certainty that would warrant its use here. Single specimens are often met, in old gardens, of great age and size. The Hawthorns are remarkable not only for their fragrant flowers and ornamental fruit, but for the variations common in both. The flowers are usually white, but in the cultivated varie- ties vary to pink and crimson. The fruit is sometimes globular, sometimes oblong, but generally smooth and polished, and in some quite downy ; while the color is from black and dark red, to orange-yellow and white. The double-flowering varieties are especially beautiful. Some of our native species are among the most ornamental low trees we have in our gardens, being, when in bloom, completely covered with pure white flowers of delicious fragrance. From the time of CRE their coming into flower they have been quite commonly called the May-tree. From the perfect hardiness of the species, their ornamental appearance both in flower and fruit, which never fails, they should be cultivated in preference to the foreign kinds. Propagated usually by seeds, which not unfrequently take two years to germi- nate. A double-flowering variety, sent from France, is a tree of great beauty, the flowers being bright rosy pink, not unlike the flowering Almond, but of greater substance. This variety is not considered hardy north of Philadelphia. The great drawback to its culture is its being subject to the attacks of the " borer." It is propagated by cuttings or by budding on the more common varieties. C. Pyracantha, the Evergreen Thorn, has fruit of a bright scarlet color, about the size of a pea, remaining on the tree all winter. There is another variety with bright yellow berries. They are both valuable for lawn decoration, and make excellent hedge plants. The whole species grow well in a soil that is naturally dry ; wet or marshy situations are wholly unsuited to them. Crazy Weed. See Astragalus. Crawfu'rdia. In honor of Sir John Crawfurd, governor of Singapore. Nat. Ord. Gentiancece. This genus consists of two species, both herbaceous climbing plants, closely allied to, and formerly included in, the genus Gentiana. C. Japonica (Climbing Gentian), a native of Japan, is an exceedingly beautiful plant, at- taining a height of six feet, and producing large axillary bell-shaped flowers of a deep blue color. C. fasciculata (fascicle flowered), a native of the Himalayas, is a similar species, but not so tall. Propagated by division or from seed. Both species are of recent intro- duction into the garden. Creeper. Properly, a plant that trails on the ground. Creeping Charlie. A popular name of Lysi- machia nummularia. Creeping Forget-Me-Not. See Omphalodes verna. Creeping Jack. Sedum acre. Creeping Jenny. Lysimachia nummularia. Creeping Myrtle. See Vinca. Creeping Sailor. Saxifraga sarmentosa. Creeping Stem. In common usage, applied to stems growing horizontally, both above and under ground. An underground stem. Crenate. Having convex flat teeth, or rounded or scolloped notches. Crenulate. Having small round notches. Creosote Plant. See Larrea. Cre'pis. From krepis, a slipper. Hawksbeard. Nat. Ord. Composite. A genus of herbaceous plants consisting of about one hundred and thirty species, very few of which are of much interest. Two of the few worth growing are C. aurea and C. rubra. The first is a neat border perennial, and the latter a very pretty annual. They are both of easy cultivation. Crescentia. Named after Pietro Crescenzi, an Italian writer on agriculture. Nat. Ord. Bignoniacea. 108 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS CKE A genus of large evergreen spreading trees, "with large solitary flowers, rising from the trunk or branches. They are all natives of tropical America, and are increased by cut- tings of the ripened wood. C. Cujete, is the Calabash Tree. Cress. Garden. See Lepidium. American or Land. Barbarea prcecox. This much resembles Water Cress in flavor ; the leaves may be used for the same purposes as common Cress. Indian. Tropceolum majus. Water. See Nasturtium officinale. Cre'ssa. From cressa, a native of Crete ; the plant is plentiful there. Nat. Ord. Convolvulacece. A curious little annual, rarely seen in our collections. The flowers are funnel-shaped, of a lively purple, and freely produced. It requires but little care or nursing, if planted in a light, rich soil. There is but one species, C. Cretica, which is a native of the Levant. Introduced in 1822. Crested. Having an elevated, irregular, or notched ridge resembling the crest of a hel- met ; a stamen is crested when the filament projects beyond the anther and becomes dilated. This term is chiefly applied to seeds, and to the appendages of anthers. It also belongs to bracts which form with their edges an appearance like that of a crest. The term is often applied to the Moss Rose. Crested Dog-tail Grass. See Cynosurus. Crimson Flag. See Schizostylis. Crimson Trefoil. Trifolium incarnatum. An annual species, used largely in Italy and the south of France for feeding green. The yield in fodder is immense, as, in warm climates, four to five cuttings can be made in a season. The blossoms are long, pointed, and of a deep red or carmine color. Cri'num. From krinon, the Greek name of the Lily. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidaceas. This is a fine genus of bulbous plants, grow- ing from a foot and a half to five feet in height. The flowers are large, produced freely in umbels, and many of them are richly scented and of pleasing colors. To grow them well they should be potted in rich loam full of fibrous matter, and, in the early part of the growing season, they should have the benefit of a moderate bottom heat, with abundance of water every day, and an additional soaking of liquid manure about once a week. In winter, of course, this must be discontinued, and the plants placed where they may receive all the light possible, in order to mature the new growth and induce them to flower freely the following season. C. amabile is a noble spe- cies, requiring to be grown in a strong heat. The bulbs grow six to eight inches in diameter, and two feet long, and sometimes produce, both spring and fall, immense spikes of dark purple flowers, of delicious fragrance. This species is a native of the East Indies, and was introduced in 1810. The genus is very large, and the species are found in nearly all tropical and sub-tropical countries. Propagated by offsets. Crispate, Crispus. When the edge is exces- sively and irregularly divided and puckered ; also when the surface is much puckered and crumpled. Well-known examples are afforded by Curled Parsley, Curled Endive, Curled CRO Kale, etc. Crispate is also a diminutive of Bullate, which see. Crista'ria. From crista, a crest ; in reference to the form of the seed vessel. Nat. Ord. Mal- vaceae. A pretty hardy herbaceous perennial from the Southwestern States, producing quite showy scarlet flowers in terminal racemes or clusters. Propagated by division of the roots or from seeds, which however require some time to produce flowering plants. Croceus, Crocatus. Saffron -colored. Croco'smia. From crocus, saffron, and osme, smell ; alluding to the odor of saffron exhaled by the dried flowers, when immersed in warm water. Nat. Ord. Iridacem. C. aurea, the only species, is a beautiful Ixia-like plant, with large, deep orange-colored flowers, somewhat resembling those of the crocus in form. The corms are fleshy, like those of the Tritonia, in which genus it was formerly included ; it can be grown in the cold frame, and is increased by offsets. Cro'cus. A Chaldean name, applied by Theo- phrastus. Nat. Ord. Iridacem. Of this well-known genus there are many species, mostly found in the southern and eastern parts of Europe, and in Asia Minor. As a garden flower the species are almost entirely lost sight of in the large number of varieties that have been produced by hybrid- izing. They are divided into two classes : the first, those that flower in early spring, too well known to need description ; the second, the autumnal-flowering or naked Crocus, so called because the flowers are produced in the absence of leaves, which, with the seeds, are produced in the spring. The spring- flowering Crocus is of the easiest culture, and we need only remark that it is a mistake to put them into poor ground, since no plants in our gar- dens delight more in, or make greater returns for, rich soil. They require a dry situation, and in such a place and soil they flower pro- fusely. The bulbs or corms should be planted at least three inches deep ; for, as the new corm forms above the old one, they will, in three or four years, push themselves out of the ground if planted too near the surface. As often as once in three years the corms should be taken up, separated, and planted out as quickly as possible ; the longer they are left out of ground the weaker they become, and the later they will come into bloom. In start- ing a new bed the corms should be planted as soon as they can be obtained, which is usually about the first of September. If left until November, as is the too common practice, very few will flower strongly the coming sea- son, and none satisfactorily. When left in the ground, they commence new life about the first of September, and before winte* they have their preparations for spring work com- plete ; the flower buds will be nearly their full length above the bulb, ready for the first sunny days in March to break forth into bloom. One of the peculiarities of the Crocus is, that when they are in flower, the germen, or seed vessel, is still under ground, almost close to the bulb ; and it is not till some weeks after the flower has decayed that it emerges on a white peduncle, and ripens its seeds above the ground. The situation for the Cro- cus bed should be a warm one, and before «^fk CBESS (UPLAND). TRUCIANELLA. CUCURBIT A (GOURD). CROTON AUREA MACULATA. CURCULIGO BECUBVATA VARIEOATA. CROCUS. CROTON VAR. CHALLENGES. CUCURBITA DEPRESSA. CUCUMIS ELEXUOSUB. CBAMBE MARTTIMA (SEA KAI.E fcUPHEA MINIATA. CUCUMBER (EAST INDIA GHERKIN). CUCUMBERS IVARIETIE8 or). »09 AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 109 CRO hard frosts it may be mulched two or three inches with leaves or coarse litter, which is to be taken off as soon in spring as the season will warrant. The mulching, however, may- be omitted where it is not convenient to apply it. C. sativus, which is the type of the autumnal-flowering species, should be planted in midsummer, and it will come into flower in September. All the species and varieties are increased by offsets. Their introduction into British gardens dates back as far as 1600. The named varieties bear very large flowers, and are, in all respects, very great improve- ments upon the older kinds. Crops, Rotation of. See Rotation. Crossa'ndra. From krossos, a fringe, and aner, andros, an anther ; in reference to the anthers being fringed. Nat. Ord. Acanthacece. Beautiful evergreen free-flowering shrubs, with large flowers in terminal, four-cornered spikes. There are five species, one of which is a native of the East Indies ; the others are from tropical Africa and Madagascar. All are of easy culture and may be readily increased by cuttings. Cross-Wort. A common name for the genus Crucianella. Crotala'ria. From krotalon, a castanet; the seeds are inflated pods, and rattle when shaken. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. This is an extensive genus, and a few of its species are particularly beautiful. The green- house kinds are to be preferred. All of them grow readily in loamy soil, the chief point in their culture being to observe that the young shoots are stopped once or twice in the early part of their growth, in order to counteract their natural tendency to grow upright, and become what is technically expressed as "long- legged." One of the principal discourage- ments in growing these plants is the difficulty of preserving them from tUe attacks of the red spider. The annuals are grown from seed, and the perennial kinds are increased from cuttings. The species are pretty gen- erally found from the West to the East Indies. Some of the annuals are found in the Southern States. Cro'ton. From kroton, a tick ; in reference to the resemblance of the seeds. Nat. Ord. Euphorbiacece. A genus of green-house evergreen shrubs of great beauty,grown for their variegated foliage, they being among the most strongly marked plants in cultivation (yellow and green, some- times red with the other colors). They are readily propagated by cuttings, with a bottom heat of not less than 75°, and require a high temperature and full sunlight to develop their markings. Leaf mould is an essential ele- ment in the compost for potting. Water should be sparingly used, particularly in winter. They do best in small pots, and as ornamental plants for decoration, they have no superior. Notwithstanding their great beauty, they are also classed with the eco- nomic or useful plants. C. Tiglium furnishes the Croton oil, a most powerful purgative. C. tinctorum is used to dye both silk and wool of an elegant blue color. The substance for this purpose is called Turnsol, and is made of the juice which is lodged between the calyx and the seeds. C. Eleuteria furnishes the Casca- CRU rilla bark, which has a pleasant, spicy odor, and a bitter, warm, aromatic taste, and it is considered a valuable medicine. The species are nearly all natives of the East Indies, and were first introduced in 1748. Syn. Codiceum, under which genus the large number of culti- vated variegated sorts are now placed. See Codiceum. Crow-berry. Empetrum nigrum. Crow'ea. Named after J. Crowe, a British bota- nist. Nat. Ord. Rutacem. A genus of beautiful green-house shrubs, consisting of but two species, C. latifolia and C. saligna, both lovely objects when in flower, which is nearly two-thirds of the year. They are in the greatest perfection during the win- ter months. The flowers are lily-shaped, of a beautiful purple, and borne at the axil of the leaves. They are easily propagated from cut- tings, and should be grown in a mixture of leaf mould and loam. Water should be spar- ingly given, or the plants will have a sickly, yellow appearance. Both species are natives of New South Wales, and were introduced in 1790. Crowfoot. See Ranunculus. Crown Imperial. See Fritillaria. Crucianella. Crosswort. A diminutive of crux, a cross ; alluding to the leaves being placed crosswise. Nat. Ord. Rubiacece. A genus of hardy herbaceous and green- house plants of but little interest. C. stylosa, a native of Persia and the Caucasus, is a low- tufted herb with rose-colored flowers, which blooms during the greater part of the summer. It is a desirable plant for rockeries. Propa- gated by cuttings or from seed. Cruciate or Cruciform. Shaped like a cross. A flower is said to be cruciate, when four petals are placed opposite each other at right angles, as in any of the Brassica tribe. Cruci'ferae. A large and important order of annual, biennial or perennial herbs, rarely suffruticose. They are very generally distri- buted, but abound most in the cold and tem- perate regions, especially in Europe. They are all nitrogenous (and contain sulphur), pungent, stimulant, anti-scorbutic, often i acrid. Not one of them is poisonous, but many are culinary vegetables. The order " contains some well-known flowering plants, such as the Stock, Wall-flower, Rocket, etc. Brassica oleracea is the origin of the Cabbage, Cauliflower, Broccoli, Savoy and*' Curled Kale. Brassica Rapa is the origin of the Turnip, but the Swedish Turnip is thought by l some to be a variety of Brassica campestris, while others think it is a hybrid between B. Rapa and B. Napus, the wild Navew Rape, or Coleseed. Crambe maritima supplies Sea- Kale, which is blanched to fit it for the table. Some plants of the order are pungent, as Sin- apis nigra, Black Mustard, from the seeds of which the best mustard is made ; S. alba, White Mustard, is less pungent. Other pun- gent plants are Lepidium sativum, common Cress ; JSasturium officinale, Water Cress ; Cochlearia Armoracia, Horse-Radish ; and Raphanus sativus, the Radish. Isatis tinctoria, Woad, yields a blue dye ; and I. indigotica is used as Indigo in China. Cochlearia officinalis grows on the sea-shore, and has been used by ships' crews affected with scurvy, and has 110 HENDEBSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS CEY hence been called Scurvy Grass. The seeds of many species yield an oil, such as oil of Mustard, Rape oil, and Camelina oil, and the cake left after pressing the oil from Bape seed is used as food for cattle. There are about 170 known genera, and 1,200 species. Brassica, Cheiranthus, Erysimum, Arabis, lAinaria, Draba, Teesdalia, Hesperis, Isatis, Capsella, etc., are illustrative genera. Crypta'nthus. A genus of Bromeliads, closely allied to Billbergia and Tillandsia, and requir- ing the same general treatment. Cryptochi'lus. From kryptos, hidden, and chei- los, a lip; the lip or labellum being partly hidden by the sepals. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. An interesting genus of terrestrial Orchids from the cooler parts of India. There are but two species, one producing brilliant scarlet flowers on a one-sided spike, while the other has smaller yellow flowers produced in the same manner. They require the same treat- ment as Stanhopea. Cryptoco'ryne. From kryptos, hidden, and koryne, a club ; the club-shaped spadix or spike in the center of the flower is hidden by the hooded spathe. Nat. Ord. Aroidece. Allied to Arum. Herbaceous perennial marsh plants with tuberous creeping roots. They produce the same peculiar-looking flowers as the Arums, but are sweet-scented, and require the same treatment as the tropical species of Arum. Propagated by division. Introduced from the East Indies in 1824. Cryptoga'taia. Cryptogams. Many names have been applied to the vast class of plants comprehended under this name, such as Asexual, or Flowerless Plants, Acrogens, Agamse, Anandrse, Acotyledons, Cryptogams, Cryptophyta, Cellulares, Exembryonata, etc. Of these the term, Cryptogamia, has been adopted by Berkeley and others as being the least objectionable in our present state of knowledge. Under this name are included all those plants called by Linnaeus Cryptogamia, because he was unable to discover their organs of fertilization, if they had any. They compre- hend Sea-weeds, Fungi, Lichens, . Mosses, Ferns and their allies. It is now known that all are multiplied by a sexual apparatus in structure wholly different from that of Phsenogamous plants, but in function the same. In the higher orders, that is to say, in Ferns, Lycopods, and Horsetails, the plant, properly so called, does not proceed directly from the spore or seed, but from a rudiment- ary intermediate organ, called prothallium, on which the organs of fertilization are formed, these organs not producing a spore or seed, but the very plant itself. Cryptogra'mme. A genus of hardy ferns synonymous with Allosorus, which see. Cryptome'ria. Japan Cedar. From kryptos, hidden, and meris, a part; the structure of all the parts of the flower being hidden, or not easily understood. Nat. Ord. Coniferm. C. Japonica, of which there are many forms, is a splendid evergreen tree, from sixty to one hundred feet high, from the north of Japan, where it is found in moist situations. It is hardy in this country, south of Philadel- phia, and requires a rich deep soil, with plenty of moisture and protection from cutting cue winds to fully develop its beauty. It was introduced in 1846, and is increased by seeds or by cuttings. Cryptoste'gia. From kryptos, hidden, and stego, to cover ; alluding to the corona being concealed within the tube of the corolla. Nat. Ord. Asclepiadacece. A small genus of pretty twining green-house shrubs, consisting of two species C. grandiflora and C. Madagascariensis, the one from India, the other from Madagascar. They are interest- ing plants, having opposite leaves, and produce large, reddish-white flowers in terminal cymes. Propagated by cuttings. Introduced in 1818. Cryptoste'mma. From kryptos, hidden, and stemma, a crown ; the crown of the flower being hidden. Nat. Ord. Composite. A small genus of tender annuals from the Cape of Good Hope. The flowers are bright golden yellow, borne on hairy stems, and are very showy. They were at one time very common, but have now fallen out of cultiva- tion. The seed should be started in a hot-bed, and the young plants pricked out the latter part of May. They require a warm situation, and a light and rather sandy soil. C. calencbu- laceum has flowers yellow inside and a very dark purple outside, which gives it a very showy appearance. Introduced in 1731. Crypto'stylis. From kryptos, hidden, and stylos, a style. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A small genus of brown-flowered terrestrial Orchids from New Holland, Java, and Ceylon. The species are more curious than beautiful. They should be grown in turfy loam and sand, in equal proportions, in an ordinary green- house temperature. Introduced in 1822. Cte'nium. Toothache-Grass. From Ctenium, a small comb ; from the pectinate appearance of the spike. Nat. Ord. Graminacece. C. Americanum, the only species, is a strong- growing grass, from three to four feet in height with rough narrow flat leaves. The root has a very pungent taste, and in domestic medicine was used as a remedy for the tooth- ache, hence its popular name. It is common in wet pine barrens from Virginia, southward, and has no agricultural value. Cuba Bast. The fibrous inner bark of Paritium (Hibiscus) elatum. Cube'ba. Uninteresting shrubs, indigenous to tropical Asia and Africa. C. officinalis, a native of Java, furnishes the cubeb fruits of commerce, which are like Black Pepper, but stalked. Nat. Ord. Piperacece. Cubebs. See Cubeba. Cuckoo-Flower. See Cardamine. Cuckoo Pint. Arum maculatum. Cucullate. When the apex or sides of anything are curved inward, so as to resemble the point of a slipper or a hood, as in the lip of Cypripedium, the spathe of an Arum, etc. Cucumber. See Cucumis. Cucumber Tree. The popular name of the Magnolia acuminata, the young fruit of which resembles a small cucumber. Cu'cumis. Cucumber. From Cucumis, the Latin for Cucumber. Nat. Ord. Cucurbitacea. Of the several species included in this genus, C. sativis, the common Cucumber, is the best known and of the most importance. It is an AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. Ill cue annual plant, a native of the East Indies, and was first introduced into England in 1573. In the East the Cucumber has been extensively cultivated from the earliest periods, as well as most of the other species of gourds. When the Israelites complained to Moses in the wilderness, comparing their old Egyptian luxuries with the manna upon which they were fed, they exclaimed : ' ' We remember the fish which we did eat freely, the cucumbers and the melons." Isaiah, in speaking of the desolation of Judea, says : *■ The daughter of Zion is left as a cottage in a vineyard, as a lodge in a garden of cucumbers." In Syria and in India immense quantities are eaten by the common people. The probabilities are, however, that their Cucumbers are Melons, though mention is made of the cultivation of both, and late travelers mention large planta- tions over which constant watch is kept, and fires built at night to keep off the wild dogs and wolves. The many varieties under culti- vation are great improvements on the origi- nal species ; but where and when improve- ment commenced we have no record ; and in looking over the field during the last thirty years, it is about as difficult to say when it will stop. Where Cucumbers are required during the winter and spring months they are generally grown in span-roofed houses, ample provision being made for both bottom and superficial heat. They are generally planted in a row on either side of the house, and trained up on trellises under the glass. Where space is limited they may be grown in large pots, and trained up a rafter, top-dressing occasionally with rich soil and supplying liquid or artificial manure. A temperature of about 60° at night is found the most suitable, a higher temperature being apt to draw the plants and make them long jointed. Red Spider, Thrips and Green Fly are their worst insect enemies, and must be kept down by regular fumigating with tobacco, and careful syringing. The principal sorts grown for forcing are the two English varieties, Tele- graph and Blue Gown, both long-fruited sorts and extremely prolific and long-lived. White Spine is also forced to a considerable extent, a marked preference being accorded it in the New York markets, while the long-fruited sorts are the favorites in Boston and Phila- delphia. Cucu'rbita. Gourd. From cwbita, a gourd. Nat. Ord. Cucwrbitacece. This is an extensive genus of trailing annuals, producing what is commonly known as Ornamental Gourds, some of which are exceedingly curious and beautiful. They are of easy culture, requiring the same treatment as the Cucumber. Natives chiefly of hot countries, they abound in India and South America, a few are also found in the north of Europe, at the Cape of Good Hope and in Australia. Cucurbita'ceae. A natural order of succulent, climbing plants with tendrils in place of sti- pules, alternate palmately - veined, rough leaves, and staminate and pistillate flowers. They are chiefly natives of hot countries, especially of India and South America ; a few are found in the north of Europe and in North America, and some are also met with at the Cape of Good Hope and in Australia. The CUN plants of this order generally possess a cer- tain amount of acridity. The pulp of the fruit of Citrullus Colocynthis is the Colocynth of the shops ; this is supposed to be the wild gourd of the Bible. Ecbalium pur gam or agreste (Momordica elaterium) is called Squirting Cu- cumber, on account of the elastic force with which its seeds are scattered. Cucumis sativus is the common Cucumber, C. melo is the Musk- melon, and Citrullus vulgaris is the Water- melon. Cucurbita Pepo, the Gourd, is a scrambling plant, to which belong the Vege- table Marrows, which are edible ; the Orange Gourds, which are bitter; the Egg Gourds, Crooknecks, Turk's Caps, and Warted Gourds. C. maxima is the Pumpkin, and C. Melopepo the Bush Squash. The seeds of Hodgsonia are eaten in India. Lagenaria vulgaris is the Bottle or Dipper Gourd. The fruit of Luffa acutangula is cut up when dry and used as a flesh brush under the name of Towel Gourd. Sechium edule yields an edible fruit called Choco or Chaca. The species of Bryonia are purgative. There are about seventy known genera and over 400 species. Cucurbita, Cu- cumis, Citrullus, Momordica, Coccinia, Trico- santhes, Luffa, and Bryonia are examples of the order. Culm. The straw of Wheat, Rye, etc. ; a kind of hollow stem. Cultivator. This is the general name applied to implements for stirring the soil, other than hoes, whether used by hand or by horse- power. There are scores of kinds in use, known under different names. The one we most prefer for use in garden operations for cultivating between rows, is what is known as the Planet, Jr. This is a combined drill, wheel-hoe, cultivator and plow, and is really a most excellent and valuable implement, combining in one, three implements, all nearly as effective as any of them would be separately. It is unquestionably the most popular as it is the most perfect machine of its kind made, at present writing. In small gardens, where a horse is seldom used, it is invaluable for working the coarser crops, such as corn, potatoes, cabbage, celery, etc. Cultrate, Cultriform. Shaped like a pruning- knife, as in Crassula cultrata. Culver s-root, or Culver's Physic. A common name for Veronica Virginica. Cumi'num. Altered from quamoun, its Arabic name. A genus of Fennel-like Umbelliferos, of little interest except C. Cyminum, the seeds of which, called Cummin, are sometimes used as Carraways, but the latter are more agree- able and efficacious. Cummin. Cuminum Cyminum. Black. The pungent seeds of Nigella sativa. Cummi'ngia. Named after Lady Gordon Gum- ming, of Altyre, near Forres, Scotland. Nat. Ord. LiliacecB. A small genus of beautiful little half-hardy bulbs from Chili, which succeed in a light rich soil, and should have the protection of a frame. The flowers are bell-shaped, light blue, and borne in panicles on slender scapes. Propagated by offsets. Introduced in 1823. Cundura'ngo. The Condor Vine of New Grenada, a species of Gonolobus, named G. Cundurango, by M. Friana. When first intro- 112 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS CUN duced this plant became famous, owing to the reputed efficacy of the stems in the cure of cancer ; a reputation its merits would not sustain. Cuneate. Wedge-shaped; the broadest end uppermost, tapering to the base. Cuni'la. Dittany. The derivation of this word is doubtful ; by some botanists it is sup- posed to be from konos, a cone, and by others from Cunila, the name of a town. Nat. Ord. Labiatce. Native hardy herbaceous perennials, com- mon on dry hills from New York to Illinois and southward. They produce clusters of small white or purplish flowers from July to September. Propagated by root division. Cunningha'mia. In honor of two brothers, J. and A. Cunningham, British botanists in Aus- tralia. Nat. Ord. Coniferce. C. Sinensis, the only known species, is a lofty evergreen tree, native of South China. It bears a close resemblance to the Araucarias, the foliage, however, being of a brighter green and less rigid. It is too tender for our climate, but its elegance makes it welcome in any conservatory where there is room for its development. Propagated from seed. In- troduced in 1804. Cuno'nia. Named after John C. Cuno, of Amsterdam, who described his own garden in verse, in 1750. Nat. Ord. Saxifragacem. C. Capensis, the only species, is a small tree, a native of the Cape of Good Hope, where it is called, " Hood Elze," by the set- tlers. The dense racemes of small white flowers, are axillary and opposite, the leaves pinnate with oblong coriaceous serrated leaf- lets. It is quite an ornamental green-house plant, and is easily increased by cuttings. Introduced in 1816. Cup Plant. A popular name for Silphium per- foliatum. Cupa'nia. Named after Francis Cupani, an Italian monk, who wrote on botany. Nat. Ord. Sapindaceoe. A genus of ornamental green-house ever- green trees, chiefly natives of Mexico and the West Indies. The species vary in height from six to twenty feet, and produce beautiful white flowers. One species, C. pendula, a native of tropical Australia, is a lofty-growing tree, and furnishes the beautiful wood known as Tulip Wood, so called from its Tulip-like markings. The species are increased by cuttings. Cu'phea. From kyphos, curved ; referring to the form of the seed-pods. Nat. Ord. Lythracea. An extensive genus of green-house ever- greens, and half-hardy annuals. With a few exceptions, such as C. platycentra, commonly known as "Segar Plant" and "Fire Cracker Plant," they are of but little merit. C. platy- centra makes a beautiful border and room plant. It is propagated readily by cuttings, grows freely, and produces its scarlet and purple tubular flowers in great profusion nearly the whole year. Introduced from Mexico in 1845. Cupre'ssus. Cypress. From kuo, to produce and parisos, equal ; in reference to the sym- metrical growth of some of the species. Nat. Ord. Cewiferm. CUR An extensive genus of hardy evergreen trees, widely disseminated. C. sempervirens, the common Eux-opean Cypress, is a native of Persia, but has for so long a time been gen- erally planted throughout the East, that it is impossible to ascertain the section where it is indigenous. The timber of this species is highly esteemed for its durability, being con- sidered superior to cedar. The doors of St. Peter's Church at Rome, which had been formed of this wood in the time of Constan- tine, showed no signs of decay when, after the lapse of a 1100 years, Pope Eugenius IV. took them down to replace them by gates of brass. In order to preserve the remains of their heroes, the Athenians buried them in coffins of Cypress ; and the chests or coffins in which the Egyptian mummies are found are usually of the same material. C. thyoides is the White Cedar or Cypress of our Southern States, a graceful and beautiful tree in its native home, but which only thrives in wet places. There are several species found in California and Oregon, some of which are magnificent trees ; others are graceful and ornamental shrubs. The beautiful Retinos- poras of Japan are nearly related to this genus. A number of species, known as Cu- pressus, are now placed under Chamcecyparis, by some authors. Cupreus. Of copper color, yellowish-red with considerable mixture of gray. Curcu'ligo. From curculio, a weevil ; the seeds having a point resembling the beak of a weevil. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidaceai. A genus of green-house herbaceous plants of which the only species worthy of cultivation is C. recurvata, and its variegated forms. They have large palm-like ribbed leaves, beautifully recurved ; most ornamental and useful for green-house or conservatory deco- ration. They are of easy cultivation growing freely in a compost of turfy loam and sand, and are readily propagated by suckers which form at the base of the stem. Introduced from Bengal in 1805. Curcu'lio. The Plum Weevil. See Insects. Cu'rcuma. Turmeric. From kurkum, its Arabic name. Nat. Ord. Scitaminea. An extensive genus of herbaceous peren- nials, natives of the East Indies, China and Java. Most of the species possess the same aromatic stimulating properties in the roots, or rhizomes, and seeds, as the common ginger, and are plants of considerable beauty from their colored bracts. C. longa is one of the best known species, the powdered root of which is the Turmeric of commerce. This powder is used in India as a mild aromatic and for other medicinal purposes. It also enters into the composition of curry powder, and a sort of arrow-root is made from the young tubers. Turmeric is a dye of a very rich color, but it possesses no durability, nor has there been any combination of mordants found that would give it this quality in a sufficient degree to make it useful. Several of the species, with yellow or reddish flowers, are cultivated in the green-house. Curl. A disease of Potatoes, referable to Chlorosis. The tubers produce deformed, curled shoots, of a pallid tint, which are never perfectly developed, and give rise to AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 113 CUR minute tubers. It is a local disease, however, and its cause is not certainly known. It is distinct from the curled foliage produced by the presence of Aphides. This term is also applied to a serious disease affecting the leavos of the Peach tree, in which they are curled and blistered. Some attribute the disease to Aphides, and others to Fungi. There is no known remedy but the destruction of the tree. Curme'ria. Derivation of name not given. Nat. Ord. Aroidece. A small genus of green-house herbaceous perennials, natives of Colombia. C. Wallisii is a dwarf-growing species, and of a very or- namental character. The leaves are spread- ing, and strongly marked with very irregular dark-green spots or blotches, intermixed with broad patches of very pale yellowish-green. C. picturata has broad green leaves, with a broad central band of silvery gray. They were introduced to cultivation in 1875, and are highly esteemed in a collection of varie- gate I -leaved plants. Propagated by offsets from the roots. Currant. Buffalo or Missouri. Ribes aureum. Common Red. Ribes rubrum. New Zealand. Aristotelia fruticosa. Red Flowering. Ribes Sanguineum. Cuscu'ta. Dodder. From kechout, its Arabic name. Nat. Ord. Cuscutacece. These plants are deserving of attention from their parasitical character, as they will attach themselves to, and grow on any other plant within their reach. Their long twining stems emit an abundance of small fragrant flowers towards the end of summer. Their seeds germinate in the earth, but detach themselves as soon as sufficiently grown to take hold of a neighboring plant. They are natives of South America, New Holland, other tropical countries, and the United States. The Cuscuta is becoming troublesome in the Southern States by overrunning other vege- tation. It is particularly so to Oleanders, several instances being reported where it has completely destroyed these beautiful shrubs. In California there has been much trouble in fields of Alfalfa from a species of Cuscuta, which, it is stated, was introduced with Alfalfa seed from Chili. The only cure, when it gets into a field, consists in cutting the crop before the Dodder matures any seed. and repeating the process as long as the Dodder makes its appearance. C. Gronovii is very common in low damp grounds, especially in shady places both east and west, chiefly on coarser herbs and low shrubs ; its orange- colored stems render it very conspicuous. Cuscuta'ceae. A natural order of plants in- cluded by some as a sub-order of Convolvul- acecB. They are leafless, parasitic, twining herbs, with flowers in dense clusters. The seeds germinate in the soil in the usual way, and afterward become true parasites by at- taching themselves to plants in their vicinity, and growing at their expense. They are found in the temperate regions of both hemi- spheres and are very destructive to some kinds of plants. There are four known genera and upward of fifty species. Cuscuta, Lepi- danche, and Epilinella are examples of the order. CYA Cushion Pink, or Ladies' Cushion. Armeria maritima. Cuspidate. Tapering gradually into a rigid point. A leaf is cuspidate when it suddenly tapers to a point. Custard Apple. A popular name .of Asimina triloba, or American Papaw. Cuticle. The external homogeneous skin of a plant, consisting of a tough membrane over- lying the epidermis. The word is also used for the skin of anything, including the epi- dermis. Cutting. A portion of a young branch which, when inserted into the earth under suitable conditions, emits roots, and is developed as a distinct individual. See Propagation by Cut- tings. Cyana'nthus. From kyanos, blue, and anthos, a flower. Nat. Ord. Campanulacew. C. lobatus is a delicate little hardy herba- ceous plant from the higher ranges of the Him- alayas, with a habit similar to some species of Campanula. Its requirements are a sandy soil, with plenty of moisture during the flow- ering season, but afterward it should be kept rather dry and allowed to rest. The flowers are terminal, and light blue. Propagated by cuttings. Cyane'lla. A diminutive of kyanos . blue. Nat. Ord. Liliaceoe. Pretty green-house bulbs, with white, blue, or yellow flowers. They grow readily in sandy loam, and, like all other plants of the same order, require to have a resting season, which, for convenience, is generally deferred to the winter. The protection of a cold frame is all they require to endure our winters. They increase freely by offsets. Natives of the Cape of Good Hope ; introduced in 1768. Cyanophy'llum. From kyanos, blue, and phyl- lon, a leaf ; referring to the color of the under surface of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Melastom- aeeo3. Of this exceedingly interesting plant we take the following description from Lowe's " Beautiful Leaved Plants :" " Native country, tropical America. Introduced in 1857 by Mr. Linden, a Continental nurseryman. A fine woody Melastomaceous hot-house shrub, which has not yet flowered in this country (England). The leaves are truly magnificent, growing two feet long and nine inches wide, of a long oval shape, tapering to a point. Upper surface a distinct ivory-like midrib, with a pair of veins of the same color running from the base near the margin and meeting near the point, joining near the midrib. Mar- gin irregularly serrated. Color a deep vel- vety green ; underneath the veins are visible, and the general color is a rich purplish crim- son. Habit strong growing. Nothing can possibly exceed the beautiful foliage of this truly handsome plant." The above descrip- tion of C. magnificum will apply equally well to the other species. Propagated by cut- tings. Cyano'tis. From kyanos, blue, and ous, an ear; referring to the shape of the petals. Nat. Ord. Commelynacece. A small genus of evergreen trailing plants, allied to Tradescantia, and requiring the same general treatment. The species are showy plants, natives of tropical Asia. They are 114 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS CYA propagated readily by cuttings. Introduced in 1770. Cya'thea. From kyatheion, a little cup ; in ref- erence to the appearance of the spore or seed cases on the back of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacew. An extensive genus of arborescent D erns, abundant in South America and in the West Indies, in India, the Eastern Islands, and in the Pacific Islands ; a few are also met with in New Zealand and South Africa. In some the trunk is short, but in others it reaches a height of forty to sixty feet, and is crowned with a magnificent head of fronds, which are in many cases of gigantic size, and are always large. C. medullaris, a native of New Zealand and the Pacific Isles, and known in gardens as a noble Tree Fern of comparatively hardy character, forms in its native country a common article of food with the natives. The part eaten is the soft me- dullary substance, which occupies the center ol the trunk, and which has some resemblance to Sago. C. dtalbata, another beautiful species of New Zealand, is said to be eaten in the same way. This has a trunk from ten to fif- teen feet high, crowned with a noble tutt ot fronds, which are white beneath with a silvery powder. Propagated by spores. First intro- duced in 1793. Cyatho'des. From Teyathos, a cup, and eidos, like ; because the nectary resembles that ves- sel. Nat. Ord. Epacridacece. An interesting and somewhat extensive genus of green-house evergreens, natives of Australia, and occasionally met in New Zea- land and the Pacific Islands. They produce small axillary white or yellow flowers. They are propagated by cuttings and require the same treatment as recommended for the Epacris. Cycadaceae. A natural order of small, palm- like trees or shrubs, with unbranched stems and pinnate leaves, usually rolled up like a crosier while in bud. They are chiefly natives of the tropical and temperate regions ot America and Asia, but are also found in southern Africa and in Australia. The plants are mucilaginous and starchy. Cycas revoluta, one of the best known, is a native of Japan, and supplies a kind of starch which is used as Sago ; and a similar kind of false Sago is sup- plied by C. circinalis in the Moluccas. Caffre bread is made from the starch of a Cape spe- cies of Encephalartos. In the West Indies a kind of Arrow-root is obtained from some species of Zamia. There are seven known genera and about fifty species. Cycas, Zamia, Encephalartos, and Dion are examples ot the order. Cy'cas. The Greek name of a Palm said to grow in Ethiopia. Nat. Ord. Cycadaceae. A remarkable genus of ornamental plants, consisting of low-growing trees, with .cylin- drical, usually unbranched stems, terminated at the top by a crown of handsome, deeply- cut, pinnate leaves of thick texture. C. revo- luta, the finest of the species, is grown exten- sively in China and Japan, its native countries, for the pith contained in its trunk, and which is prepared by the natives into an article ot food similar to the Sago, upon which they live wholly for several months in the year. Ihey are commonly, but erroneously, called Sago CYC Palms, as they furnish none of the Sago of commerce. Their cultivation in our houses is the same as is required for all the Palm tribe; plenty of pot room, and a strong, moist heat. C. revoluta, however, may be wintered in a low temperature, and its new growth retarded for the lawn. After the leaves have perfected their growth and are thoroughly hardened, the plants can be placed upon the lawn during summer, where they are most appropriate ornaments. Young plants are usually obtained from suckers, but as it takes many years to grow these to any useful size, large numbers of the trunks, minus leaves and roots, vary- ing in height from one to seven feet, are annually imported from Cuba and the West Indian Islands, which being placed in heat, soon make good plants. Several large con- signments have also been received of late years from Japan. This genus was first intro- duced into England from China in 1737. Cy'clamen. From kyklos, circular ; referring to the round leaves. Nat. Ord. PrimulacecB. This genus contains some of our most pop- ular and desirable plants for fall, winter, and early spring flowering. They are all neat and dwarf in habit ; all have foliage of pretty form and beautiful markings, and the flowers, in every case, are beautiful, some exquisitely so. C. persicum stands at the head of the family, and is the one in most general culti- vation. The Cyclamen should be grown from seed, which should be sown as soon as ripe, in gentle heat, in pans filled with a compost of well-rotted manure, leaf mould, and coarse sand thoroughly incorporated. As soon as the plants have made two leaves, prick out into thumb-pots filled with the same compost, and place upon the shelf in the green-house, near the glass, and shade from direct sunlight. Carefully water; to dry them or drown them is equally fatal. As soon as the pots are filled with roots, shift into a three-inch pot, observ- ing the same instructions in all respects. By the first of September they will require a five-inch pot. With proper care and attention, they will be in flower in December and Janu- ary following planting. They require a more even temperature than is usually given to green-house plants, not above 60° nor below 50° ; with it bulbs two inches in diameter can be grown in one year. After flowering, they should be gradually ripened off, but never allowed to become thoroughly dry. Durmf summer keep them in a frame, shaded, and give occasionally a little water. They should be repotted again about the first of September, reducing the old ball considerably and giving them similar treatment to that previously advised for young plants, but the flowers are generally earlier and smaller a second year. It is not advisable to save plants after this age, as seed sown every year will keep up a stock, and young plants are much to be pre- ferred. This species is a native of Persia. All the species are famous for their acridity, yet in Sicily the Cyclamen is the principal food of the wild boars ; hence the common name of Sow-bread. Cyclantha'ceae. A natural order of perennial herbs or shrubs, all natives of tropical America. It is very closely allied to Pandan- acem, and embraces four genera and about thirty-five species. Carludovica palmata, whicn AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 115 CYC yields the much-valued straw from which the Guyaquil or Panama hats are manufactured, is the best known representative of the order. Cycla'nthera. A free-growing Mexican climber, belonging to the Cucwrbitacece. It has hand- some foliage, and pretty oval-shaped fruit, ex- ploding when ripe. Cyclan'thus. From kyklos, a circle, and antkos, a flower; in allusion to the spiral arrange- ment of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Cyclantha- ceoB. A remarkable genus of tropical American, perennial, stemless, milky herbs. C. discolor has bifid lanceolate leaves, with a tapering point, more or less frilled at the edges. The young leaves are streaked, of a tawny orange hue, which passes off as they become matured. Introduced from Guiana in 1882. Syn. Cyclo- 8anthes. Cyclobo'thra. From kyklos, a circle, and bothros, a pit ; in reference to a cavity at the bottom of each sepal. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. A genus of very handsome bulbous plants from California and Mexico. They are allied to the Calochortus, and require the same treatment. The flowers are nodding, like those of the Fritillarias, and of white, yellow, and purple colors. They are easily propagated by the small bulbs that grow on the upper part of the stems. Cyclo'gyne. From kyklos, a circle, and gyne, a stigma, or female organ ; in reference to the disposition of the pistils. Nat. Ord. Legumi- noscB. A very beautiful green-house evergreen shrub from Swan River. It is remarkable for the appearance of the pinnate leaflets, which are clad underneath with white hairs ; and this, with the profusion of purple flowers it bears, renders it an attractive object. Propagated by seeds or cuttings. Cycno'ches. Swan Neck. From kyknos, a swan, and auchen, the neck; in reference to the long and gracefully curved column. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. Some of the species are considered indis- pensable to the Orchid house, for the beauty and delightful fragrance of the flowers. They require strong heat and moisture. Cydo'nia. Quince. The name of Cydonia was given to this plant by the ancients, from its growing abundantly near Kydon, in the isle of Crete, now Candia. Nat. Ord. Rosacea. The common Quince, C. vulgaris, has been under cultivation from a very early period. Pliny says: "There are many kinds of this fruit in Italy ; some growing wild in the hedgerows, others so large that they weigh the boughs down to the ground." Martial, who died at Rome A. D. 104, states that the Romans had three sorts of Quinces, one of which was called Chrysomela, from its yellow color. They boiled them with honey, as the Europeans make marmalade. Botanical re- searches show that the Quince grows spon- taneously on the hills and in the woods of Italy, in the south of France, in Spain, Sicily, Sardinia, the Crimea, and in the south of the Caucasus; it also grows abundantly on the banks of the Danube, and in the north of Africa. "The learned Goropius maintains that Quinces were the golden apples of Hes- , perides, and not Oranges, as some commen- CYM tators pretend. In support of his argument he states that it was a fruit much revered by the ancients, and he assures us that there has been discovered at Rome a statue of Hercules that held in its hand three Quinces. This, he says, agrees with the fable which states that Hercules stole the golden apples from the gardens of the Hesperides." This species is unquestionably the parent of the several varieties under cultivation. There seems to have been but little improvement in this fruit in centuries. The great differ- ence in the quality of this fruit, as seen in our markets, is largely due to cultivation. The common practice of planting the Quince in some neglected corner results in getting small, knotty fruit, almost if not altogether worthless. The Quince should have a deep, rich soil, rather heavy, and the ground should be kept clean and free from grass. Attention should also be paid to pruning, as a preventive against slugs and other vermin. The trunks and branches should be thoroughly rubbed over with strong soft-soap every spring. With this simple precaution the failure of a crop of large, clean, healthy fruit will be very rare. The propagation of the Quince is very simple, the more rapid way being to take cut- tings from the young wood in autumn, heel them in in some protected place during winter, and plant out in spring in a shaded situation, and they will take root very readily. C. Japon- ica, Syn. Pyrus Japonica, is a beautiful dwarf species, remarkable for the brilliancy of its blossoms, which vary from the richest scarlet to the most delicate blush color. It is a na- tive of Japan, perfectly hardy, and well adapted for single plants on the lawn, or for planting ornamental hedges. The fruit has a delicious fragrance, but is entirely worthless for domestic purposes. This species is best propagated by root cuttings. C. Maulei, dwarfer and more compact in habit than C. Japonica, has bright red flowers and golden yellow fruit, produced in great abundance, and which makes an excellent conserve. It is one of the most beautiful plants of com- paratively recent introduction. Cylindrical. Cylinder-shaped ; approaching closely to the form of a cylinder, as the stems of grasses, etc. Cyli'sta. From kylitos, twining; referring to the habit of the plants. Nat. Ord. Leguminosai. A genus of ornamental climbing plants. C. scariosa, found in the Bombay districts of India, is a very ornamental climber, requiring to be grown in a hot-house, as do most of the genus. The flowers are very showy, bright, yellow, borne on erect bracted racemes, and are remarkable for their large papery calyx, which is very conspicuous. Propagated by cuttings. Introduced in 1776. Cymbi'dium. From kymbos, a hollow recess; referring to a hollow recess in the lip or label- lum. Nat. Ord. Orchidaceaz. A genus containing both terrestrial and epiphytal Orchids, many of them of rare beauty, and all worthy of cultivation. C. Sinense, a native of China, is remarkable for its delicious fragrance. The epiphytal spe- cies require the treatment of hot-house Orchids; the terrestrial ones do well in a green-house temperature. 116 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS CYM Cy'mbiform. Having the figure of a boat in miniature ; that is to say, concave, tapering to each end, with a keel externally, as the glumes of Phalaris Canariensis. Cyme. A form of inflorescence, resembling a flattened panicle, as in the Laurustinus and the Elder (Sambucus). Cy'nara. Cardoon. Artichoke. From kyon, a dog ; in reference to the spines of the involu- crum resembling dog's teeth. Nat. Ord. Com- positce. C. cardunculus, the Cardoon of the garden, very much resembles the Artichoke ; it is a hardy perennial, a native of the south of Europe and the northern parts of Africa. The stalks of the leaves, or ribs, as they are usu- ally termed, are blanched, and when properly cooked constitute a tender and excellent veg- etable, much used in France, but not gener- ally cultivated in other countries. The flow- ers, like those of the Artichoke, have the property of curdling milk. See Artichoke. Cyno'don. Bermuda Grass, Scutch Grass. A small genus of grasses but little known, except C. Dactylon, a native of southern Europe, and all tropical countries. It is a common pasture grass in the West Indies, and the Sandwich Islands, and has long been known in the United States, though it is only of late years that its value is becoming appreciated. It is admirably adapted for the Southern States, as it is fitted by nature to withstand drought and the scorching rays of the sun bet- ter than any other grass. In the East Indies (where it is called, Doub or Doorba, by the natives) and in all tropical countries, this grass is highly esteemed for its drought- resisting qualities, and also for the peculiar habit of its growth ; the wiry roots of grass in running over the surface of the ground form a strong fibrous matting. It has numerous joints from each of which roots strike down and blades shoot up. This has caused it to be sown largely for the purpose of binding banks of creeks and dams, etc. It makes a perfect carpet of roots, enabling it to withstand traffic which would completely kill any other grass. For lawns it is also highly prized, as while all other grasses are burned up during the hot season, Bermuda Grass will look compara- tively green, and if watered and regularly mown, it will make quite a velvety carpet. The only drawback is that in winter it looks a little brown. It should be sown in the spring, as it will not germinate until warm weather comes. As a grass for hay or pasture, it matures and gives its first cutting ordinarily in June. Persons having the most experience with Bermuda Grass, place the average yield of hay for ten years at four tons per acre per annum. This is a cautious and safe estim- ate of its productiveness. It grows where- ever corn and cotton grow. On poor land Bermuda Grass is stumpy and coarse ; on rich land its growth is free, and its blades are long, tender and delicate. Properly cultivated in southern latitudes, animals prefer this grass and the hay made from it over all other varieties. Like Japan Clover, it does not succeed further north than Virginia. Cynoglo'ssum, Hound's Tongue. From kyon, a dog, and glossa, a tongue ; referring to the shape of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Boraginacece. CYP Pretty border plants, producing flowers of almost all colors. They grow in any soil, and are not very particular as to situation, and are increased readily by division of the stools in the spring. The annuals and biennials are grown from seed. Cynosu'rus. Dog's-tail Grass. From kyon, a dog, and oura, a tail ; from its resemblance to a dog's tail, whence its common name. Nat. Ord. Graminacece. A small genus of grasses, but one of which, C. cristatus, the Crested Dog's-tail Grass, is of value to the agriculturist. This species is common in England, in dry pastures, often forming a considerable portion of the turf on gravelly soils. For such soils it is a valu- able grass, being greatly relished by sheep, but is not much liked by cattle. The slender straws of this grass are valuable for making hats, being far superior even to the fine wheat plant cultivated for the purpose in Italy. Cype'lla. From kypellon, a goblet, a cup ; re- ferring to the form of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Iridacece. A genus of very pretty half-hardy bulbs, worthy of a place in the green-house. They are multiplied by offsets. Introduced in 1823. Cypera'ceae. A natural order of grass-like, tufted plants, having solid, usually jointed, and frequently angular stems; leaves with their sheaths entire (not split, as in Grasses) ; and very generally distributed all over the world, abounding in moist places. Some of the Sedges are demulcent, others are bitter and astringent. Some, by means of their creeping underground stems, bind together the loose sands of the sea-shore. Their cell- ular tissue is sometimes used for paper, and the underground stems of several species of Cyperus are used for food. The underground stems of Carex arenaria are used for Sarsa- parilla. The species of Eriophorum, or Cotton Grass, have long, white, silky hairs surround- ing the fruit. Papyrus antiquorum (also called Cyperus) appears to be one of the plants called Bulrush in the Bible. It formerly grew abund- antly at the mouth of the Nile, which was hence called papyriferous by Ovid, but it is now gone. The cellular tissue of its stems was used in place of paper. Scirpus lacustis, the Bulrush, is used for making mats, baskets, and the bottoms of chairs. In South America it is used for making balsas or boats, and a similar use is referred to in Isaiah, xvii., 1, 2. There are 120 known genera and upward of 2,000 species. Cyperus, Papyrus, Carex, Scir- pus, Eriophorum, and Cladium are examples of the order. Cype'rus. Supposed to be derived from Cypris, a name of Venus, from their supposed medi- cinal qualities. Nat. Ord. Cyperacem. A genus of sedge plants, of but little merit for the garden or green-house. C. altemifolius is grown as a basket plant ; it is of the easiest culture, and will thrive in any soil or situation, but prefers a moist one. A variegated variety of this species is very beautiful, but not con- stant. They are natives of Madagascar, first introduced in 1781. C. rotundus (Nut Grass) is a common and troublesome weed in the Southern States. Cy'phia. From kyphos, curved; referring to the shape of the style and stigma. Nat. Ord. Campanulacece. «i6 CYCLAMEN PERSICTTM. CYNOSURUS (DOG'S-TAIL GRASS). CTNABA (CARDOON). DACTYLIS (ORCHARD GRASS) CYP1UPEDIUM 6PECTABILE. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 117; CYP A small genus of herbaceous twiners from South Africa. They produce small blue or red bell-shaped flowers, of but little interest. The species are rarely met, excepting in botanical collections. Cyphoma'ndra. From kyphoma, a hump, and aner, a man ; the anthers form a hump. Nat. Ord. Solanacece. A genus of shrubby plants with showy foliage, natives of South America. C. betacea, is the Tree Tomato, a handsome shrub, a native of Peru, the small, deep red, egg-like fruit of which is used in the same way as Tomatoes. Propagated by seeds or cuttings. Introduced in 1887. Cypress. See Cupressus. Black or Deciduous. Taxodium distachyum. Chinese Deciduous. Taxodivm sinense. Funeral. Cupressus funebris. Japan. The genus Retinospora; especially R. obtusa. Monterey. Cupressus macrocarpa. Nootka Sound. Cupressus Nutkcensis. Oregon. Cupressus Lawsoniana. Cypress Vine. See Quamoclit. Cypripe'dium. Ladies' Slipper, or Moccasin Flower. From Cypris, one of Venus's names, and podion, a slipper. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A somewhat extensive genus of terrestrial Orchids, producing flowers of the most sin- gular structure, combined with elegance and beauty. It is remarkable that a family with such marked and distinctive characteristics should find congenial homes in such a diversity of soil and climate. The species are pretty generally distributed, from our most northern States to Mexico, through South America, the Pacific Islands, and India. The State of New York furnishes six species, all beautiful and worthy of cultivation. The native species may all be cultivated in the garden by placing them in a well drained shady border; the soil of which should be liberally mixed with leaf mould. Their unique blossoms render them highly deserving of any care. The best time for transplanting them from their native localities is after they have done blooming, and they should be removed with a ball of earth attached to the roots. Some of the tropical species require the tem- perature and humid atmosphere of the hot- house, while others do best in the green-house. The most of them however thrive admirably amongst ordinary stove-plants, flower very freely, and continue in perfection a long time. One most important point in their culture is drainage. This must be most thorough and effective, for as these plants have no pseudo- bulbs to sustain them, they must not be dried off, as many other orchids are, during winter, and if the drainage is defective, the roots are sure to decay and the leaves shrivel. The foliage of several of the species is beautifully spotted and marbled with yellow and white, which makes them attractive at all times. There are so many species and varieties now under cultivation, and they are all so beautiful that it is almost impossible to make a selection of only a few kinds. An amateur should there- fore begin with a few of the common species, and add to his collection as his taste or fancy dictates. See Orchids. The flowers are greatly valued in the winter months for florists' work. Propagated by division of roots, CYR and by seed, which, with most of the species, is a rather delicate undertaking. Cyri'lla. Named in honor of D. Cyrillo, an Ital- ian botanist. Nat. Ord. Cyrillacece. A small genus of half-hardy and green- house flowering shrubs, with the habit of some of the larger Andromedas. C. racemi- flora is common in sandy banks of ponds and streams from the Carolinas south and west. It is a low-growing tree or shrub, with racemes of small white flowers. Cyrilla'ceee. A small order of evergreen shrubs or trees, differing from Ericacece in their free petals and in the anthers opening in slits. Flowers usually racemose. The three genera are Cliftonia, Costcea and Cyrilla. There are about eight species, all confined to the warmer parts of America. Cyrta'ndra. From kyrtos, curved, and aner, andros, a male ; alluding to the curved fila- ments of the perfect stamens. Nat. Ord. Gesneracece. A genus of trees and shrubs natives of the Malayan Archipelago and the Pacific Islands. Though embracing about sixty species, only two have as yet been introduced to cultiva- tion, C. pendula, from Java in 1883, and C. Pritchardii, from Fiji, in 1887. They are both interesting plants, and are increased by cut- tings. Cyrtanthe'ra. From kyrtos, curved and anthera, an anther. Nat. Ord. Acanthacece. A small genus of handsome evergreen plants from South America, which do well in the green-house. They are nearly related to Justicia; their flowers are orange, yellow, and rose in color, borne in dense terminal panicles, and they are propagated readily from cuttings. Introduced in 1827. Cyrta'nthus. From kyrtos, curved, and anthos, a flower ; the flowers bend down from the sum- mit of the scape or stalk. Nat. Ord. Amaryl- lidacece. Very handsome green-house bulbs from the Cape of Good Hope. The flowers, which are borne in umbels on a slender scape, are red, crimson and orange, produced in summer, when they require very liberal watering ; they should be grown in pots, and are propagated by offsets. Introduced in 1774. Cyrto'ceras. From kyrtos, curved, and keros, a horn; in allusion to the curved horns of the corona segments. Nat. Ord. Asclepiadacem. A stove-house evergreen climber with white flowers, tipped with buff. This is now gener- ally regarded as a section of the genus Hoya. C. multiflorus, the only species, bears the fol- lowing synonyms : Centrostemma multiflorum, Cyrtoceras floribundum, C. Lindleyanum, C. rejkxum and Hoya coriacea. Cyrtochi'lum. From kyrtos, curved, or concave, and cheilos, a lip ; the form of the labellum or lip. Nat. Ord. Orchidaceai. A genus of small flowering Orchids from Mexico and Guatemala. The flowers are red, yellow, spotted, purple and green. They require a high temperature, and are usually grown on blocks of wood or cork. Cyrtodei'ra. From kyrtos, curved, and deire, neck. Nat. Ord. Gesneracea. Green-house herbaceous perennials, with beautifully-colored fbliage, and solitary flow- 118 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS CYR ers on short axillary stems. They make very pretty basket plants for the hot-house, the only place in which they thrive well. They thrive best in sandy loam and leaf mould, and are increased readily from cuttings, and also from seed. This genus is included under Episcia, by some authors. Cyrto'mium. From kyrtos, curved ; the shape of the spore cases or seed vessels. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. A small genus of robust evergreen Ferns of very ornamental character. They are natives of India, China, and Japan, and require the hot-house for perfection of growth. Syn. Aspidmm. Cyrtope'ra. From kyrtos, curved, and pera, a small sack ; alluding to the sack-like append- age to the labellum or lip. Nat. Ord. Orchid- acecB. A small genus of very beautiful terrestrial Orchids, natives of northern India. In appearance they resemble the Bletias, and are usually given the same treatment. Cyrtopo'dium. From kyrtos, curved, and potts, a foot ; referring to the form of the labellum or lip. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. DAH A genus of beautiful, strong-growing Or- chids from Brazil, valued alike for their large spikes of flowers, yellow spotted with red, and for their beautiful foliage. One species, with yellow flowers, has pseudo-bulbs nearly five feet high. The room required to grow them prevents their general cultivation. Cysto'pteris. Fromkystis, a bladder, andpteron, a wing. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacem. A genus of beautiful, hardy Ferns, allied to Microlepia and Woodsia. They are admirably adapted for ferneries and rock work. C. bulbifera, a native species, produces large fleshy bulblets in the axils of the upper pinnae, which fall to the ground and become new plants. Cy'tisus. From Cythnus, one of the Cyclades, where one of the species was first found. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. This is an extensive genus, consisting prin- cipally of hardy deciduous trees and shrubs, of which C. Laburnum (Syn. Laburnum vulgare) is a well-known species. They are all very ornamental and free-flowering, and succeed well in almost any soil or situation. They are readily increased by seeds or from cuttings. Introduced in 1596. D. D acry'dium. From dakru, a tear; referring to the gummy exudation. Nat. Ord. ConifercB. A genus of evergreen trees inhabiting the East Indies and New Zealand. The flowers are curious, but not showy. The young branches afford a beverage of the same quali- ties as root beer. D. Franklinii, from Tas- mania, furnishes a valuable timber, very dur- able, which is used for ship and house-build- ing. Some of the wood is beautifully marked, and is used for cabinet work. Da'ctylis. Orchard Grass. From dactylos, a finger ; the head is divided so as fancifully to resemble fingers. Nat. Ord. Graminacem. A small genus of grasses, the best-known of which is D. glomerata, a native of Europe. It is a valuable grass for pastures, as it contains much nutriment when young, and the plant is not injured by close feeding. It grows well under trees, and is, therefore, fitted for orchards, and other shaded places. Daedalaca'nthus. From doedalos, various colored, and Acanthus, to which it is related. Nat. Ord. Acanthacem. A genus of about fourteen species of shrubs, natives of the East Indies and the Malayan Archipelago. D. macrophyllus, the best known species, is an erect, minutely-pubescent, per- ennial herb, with handsome foliage, and pale violet-blue flowers. It was introduced from Burmah in 1883. Daemo'norops. From dema, a cord, and rhops, a twig; alluding to the rope-like, climbing stems. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. This genus of Palms, numbering more than forty species, is closely allied to Calamus, to which most of the species formerly belonged. All the species are natives of the eastern hemisphere, principally of the Malayan Pen- insula and Islands. They have long, thin, flexible stems, furnished with pinnate leaves, the prickly stalks of which are frequently pro- longed into whip-like tails. D. Draco (form- erly Calamus Draco) is a native of Sumatra and other islands of the Indian Archipelago, and is called the Dragon's Blood Palm, in con- sequence of its fruits yielding a portion of the substance known in commerce as Dragon's Blood. The fruits are about the size of cher- ries, and when ripe are covered with a reddish resinous substance, which is separated by shaking them in a coarse canvas bag. This resin is the best Dragon's Blood that is obtained, although there are several other plants that furnish a similar article. D. Palem- banicus and a few other species, natives of Java, have lately been introduced into the green-house as decorative plants, for which purpose they are exceedingly appropriate. The young leaves are of a bright cinnamon brown, and the contrast between this warm color and the deep green of the matured leaves renders the plants very beautiful at the time they are in course of development. Young plants are obtained from seed. In a growing state they require considerable heat. Daffodil. The common name of Narcissus Pseudo- Narcissus. See Narcissus. Dagger Plant and Bayonet Plant. Local names for a species of Yucca. Dahlia. In honor of Andrew Dahl, a celebrated Swedish botanist and pupil of Linnssus. Nat. Ord. Composite. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 119 DAH This interesting genus, consisting of com- paratively few species, shows more plainly the skill of the florist than almost any other in cultivation. Its history is also somewhat curious, as, strange to say, though it has become so great a favorite, and is so univers- ally cultivated, the history of its introduction is very obscure. It is generally said to have been introduced into England by Lady Hol- land in 1804; but the fact is, it had been introduced many years before that period, and was only brought from Madrid in 1804 by Lady Holland, who apparently did not know that it was already in that country. The first kind of Dahlia known to Europeans, D. super- Jhta, Cav., (D. variabilis, Dec, Georgina pin- nata, W.,) was discovered in Mexico by Baron Humboldt in 1789, and sent by him to Pro- fessor Cavanilles of the Botanical Garden, Madrid, who gave the genus the name of Dahlia, in honor of the Swedish professor Dahl. Cavanilles sent a plant of it the same year to the Marchioness of Bute, who was very fond of flowers, and who kept it in the green-house. From this species nearly all the varieties known in the gardens have been raised, as it seeds freely, and varies very much when raised from seed. In 1802, D. frustranea, Ait., (D. coccinea, Cav.,) was intro- duced from France, in which country it had been raised from seed. It is rather remark- able that the two species did not hybridize together, and that D. superfhia, or variabilis, should produce flowers of colors so different as crimson, purple, white, yellow, orange and scarlet without hybridization. Among all the colors, however, displayed by these varieties, no flowers have yet appeared of blue, and are not likely ever to be, as we find no family of plants in nature in which there are blue, yel- low and scarlet in varieties of the same spe- cies. These two species and their varieties were the only Dahlias known in English gar- dens for many years, as, though a few kinds were introduced from time to time from France and Spain, yet, as they did not hybrid- ize with the others, and were rather more tender, they were not generally cultivated, and appear to have been soon lost. Most of these have, however, been re-introduced from Mexico, with several new species, within the last few years, and there are now ten or twelve distinct species, besides innumerable varieties of D. variabilis. The most remarka- ble of the new species is the tree Dahlia, D. excelsa, which is said to grow in Mexico thirty feet high, with a trunk thick in proportion. D. imperialis, a distinct species, attains a height of ten to fifteen feet, and is of a fine branching form, producing, late in the fall, pure white, drooping, lily-like flowers, three inches in diameter. It flowers rather late to be seen in perfection in the Northern States, but it is a magnificent plant in any section of the country where frost holds off until the 15th of November. The very showy scarlet D. Juarezii, commonly called the "Cactus Dahlia," is another distinct species, which, with its many varieties of various shades of color, is very attractive. The single varieties also of D. coccinea, from their grace and beauty, are much used for vases or epergnes of cut flowers. They also make distinct and interesting bedding plants, as they flower in great profusion. The colors so far attained DAL are scarlet, yellow, rose, crimson, and white, with a great variety between these colors, as in the other classes, making a fine contrast with the yellow disk. The propagation of the Dahlia is quite sim- ple. For amateurs, division of the root will more than supply their needs, as each will divide, if started in a hot-bed or any warm and moist place, into at least six good plants. Young plants of both the single and double sorts are propagated by cuttings taken off old roots, started in heat in February or March, and grown on in pots until time to plant out in the border, which should be done as soon as danger from frost is over. Seeds of either the double or single sorts sown in February, grown on, and planted out in June, will make strong blooming plants by August. To suc- ceed well they should have a strong, deep and rich soil ; as they are rapid growers, they are consequently gross feeders, and are much benefited by frequent applications of water during the summer, and by liquid manure after the buds are formed. For perfection in bloom the shoots and flower-buds must be thinned out in the younger stages of growth, but otherwise it will be unnecessary to do.so. Some of the dwarfer Pompon varieties have for the last two seasons been flowered in pots, for spring sales, with success, both pecu- niarily and otherwise, one firm in the neigh- borhood of New York having disposed of over 10,000 plants in flower in one season. The dwarf white variety, named Camellimflora, is the favorite for this purpose. The same firm plants two houses of this variety about the first of August, for winter blooming, putting on the sashes just before the first frost, realizing a handsome price for them during winter, or until the houses are required for a spring crop of Geraniums, Fuchsias, etc. Daisy. Blue. See Agathea Cazlestis i also Aster Tripolium. Common. Bellis, which see. Marsh Ox-eye. Chrysanthemum lacustre. Ox-eye, or White. Leucanthemum vulgare. Paris. Chrysanthemum frutescens. Swan River. Brachycome iberidifolia. Western. Bellis integrifolia. Dalbe'rgia. Named after Nicholas Dalberg, a Swedish botanist. Nat. Ord. Leguminosas. A genus of lofty-growing, East Indian ever- green trees. Most of the species are truly magnificent, of immense size, with beautiful pinnate foliage, and produce an abundance of white flowers in axillary racemes. The trees are the most remarkable for the valuable timber they furnish. D. latifolia is the Black- wood or East Indian Rosewood tree, common on the Malabar and Coromandel coasts, and yields one of the most valuable furniture woods. The timber is furnished in planks four feet wide, and is of a dark purplish color, very heavy, close grained, and susceptible of a high polish. It lacks the rich perfume of the true Rosewood, and is not so beautifully variegated. In India it is used in the manu- facture of their richest furniture. The species yield some of the most valuable timber used in the mechanic arts. Dalea. Named after Dr. Samuel Dale, an English botanist of the last century. Nat. Ord. Leguminosaz. 120 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS DAL A genus of shrubby or herbaceous plants with purplish, blue, whitish or rarely yellow flowers, natives principally of Mexico, a few being found in Chili and the southern United States The genus contains more than 100 species, of which very few are in cultivation. D. Mutisii, introduced from South America in 1828, the most showy and best known species, has beautiful dark-blue flowers, disposed in cylindrical heads, flowering in October. It is also known as Psoralea Mutisii. Dalecha'mpia. Named after James Dalechamp, a celebrated French botanist. Nat. Ord. Euphor- biacem. Evergreen climbers, producing small yel- lowish-green flowers on axillary peduncles. The genus is small, mostly natives of Brazil, and do best in the hot-house. Propagated by cuttings. Daliba'rda. Named after Denis Dalibard, a French botanist. Nat. Ord. Rosacea. D. repens, the only species, is a rather pretty trailing plant, quite common in our northern woods. The flowers are white, and are produced singly or in pairs. It is not cultivated except in botanical collections. Dalmatian Powder. A well-known insecticide manufactured from the flowers of Pyrethrum cinerariaefolium. Dame's Violet, or Rocket. A common name for Hesperis Matronalis. Da'mmara. Kauri Pine. The name of the species in Amboyna. Nat. Ord. Coniferaz. A genus of evergreen trees, similar to our Pines. D. Australis, a native of New Zealand, is a tree from 150 to 200 feet in height, pro- ducing a hard, brittle, resin-like copal, the principal ingredient of Dammar or white varnish. Dampie'ra. Named after the circumnavigator, Captain William Dampier. Nat. Ord. Oood- eniacecs. Green-house herbaceous perennials from New Holland, of easy culture. Flowers blue, both axillary and terminal. Propagated by cuttings of young shoots or by division. Damping off. A term applied to the premature decay of the leaves, flowers, or stems of plants. Its effects are most marked on young and tender seedlings when crowded together, or placed under unsuitable atmospheric con- ditions. Damping off amongst cuttings is often caused by allowing them to become too dry, and then suddenly applying too much water. The water is generally blamed when the actual cause is drought and the sudden change subsequently caused by the water. When damping is detected amongst tender seedlings they should be immediately sep- arated and transplanted singly in fresh soil. This will invariably check it, but the opera- tion is best performed before damping begins. Damson. A group of small fruited varieties of the Plum. Dancing Girls. Opera Girls. See Mantisia. Dandelion. See Taraxicum. Dane-wort, or Dane's Blood. Sambucus Ebu- lus. Dangle-Berry . A common name for Gaylussacia frondosa. DAS Dantho'nia. Wild Oats Grass. Named in honor of M. Donthoine, a French botanist. Nat. Ord. Graminacem. An extensive genus of grasses, having in their native habitat the widest geographical range. Some of the species are common on poor soils in this country. D. spicata, one of the most common species, is popularly known as Wild-Oats Grass. Da'phne. From daio, to burn, and phone, a noise ; it crackles when burning. Nat. Ord. Thymelacem. An extensive genus of small shrubs, mostly evergreen, with very beautiful, fragrant flow- ers, natives chiefly of Europe, but partly also of the cooler parts of Asia, including Japan and China. Some of them are hardy shrubs, valued for their early spring flowers. D. Cneorum, the Garland Flower, is a hardy spreading evergreen shrub, growing about a foot high, and producing its beautiful bright pink or crimson, deliciously sweet-scented flowers in terminal clusters in April and May, and occasionally again in September. On account of its dwarf habit it is especially suit- able for planting on rock-work, or for edgings to beds ; it is propagated by layers. D. odora, a native of China, is a green-house evergreen, succeeding best when planted out in a cool house; this species and D. Indica are grown extensively for cut flowers, which are highly esteemed for their delicious fragrance. They grow freely from cuttings. Introduced in 1771. Da'rea. Named after Dar, a botanist. A genus of Ferns allied to Asplenium. Darlingto'nia. Named in honor of Dr. Darling- ton, one of our most distinguished botanists. Nat. Ord. Sarraceniacea. This remarkable genus consists of but one species, C. Californica, which is found in the marshy districts of California, and is com- monly known as the California Side-Saddle Flower, or Pitcher Plant. It is a perennial herb, and can be grown in an ordinary cool green-house. The plants should be potted in Sphagnum, leaf-mould and sand. Propagated by division and from seed. Dr. Torrey gave the first description of this plant in 1853. Darnel. A common name for the Lolium, which see. Darwinia. Named after Dr. Darwin, author of the "Botanic Garden." Nat. Ord. Myrtacece. A small genus of low-growing, heath-like, ' evergreen shrubs, found in the extra tropical regions of Australia. The leaves are marked with transparent dots. D. macrostegia, much better known as Genetyllis, or Hedaroma tulipi- fera, has numerous campanulate, tulip-like flowers, nearly one and a half inches long, borne in terminal fascicles. The petal-like inner bracts are pale yellow, streaked with red, the petals white. It is a very showy and ornamental plant, and is easily increased by cuttings of the half-ripened wood. Introduced in 1854. Dasyli'rion. From dasys, thick, and leirion, a lily; the plants are succulent. Nat. Ord. LiliacecB. A small genus of green-house evergreen plants from Mexico. The flowers, like most of this order, are quite interesting. They require similar treatment to the tender species AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 121 DAT of Yucca, and are increased by suckers. Introduced in 1830. Date. Chinese. A name given by foreign resi- dents in the northern provinces of China to the fruit of a Zizyphus, allied to or probably an improved variety of Z. Jujuba. Date Palm. See Phoznix. Date Plum. See Diospyros. Dati'sca. A very graceful herbaceous perennial of the Nat. Ord. Datiscacece, closely allied to the Begonias, well suited for a collection of hardy, fine-leaved plants, and also as isolated specimens. Flowers yellow, in long, loose axillary racemes. Native of Crete and west- ern Asia. Datisca'ceae. A small natural order closely allied to the Begonias. The plants consist of a few species which are scattered over North America, northern India, Siberia, the Indian Archipelagic- and southern Europe. There are but three genera, Datisca, Tetrameles and Tri- cerastes, and these comprise but four species. Datu'ra. Jamestown Weed, Thorn Apple, Dev- il's Trumpet. An alteration of the Arabic name tatorah. Nat. Ord. Solanacece. Strong growing ornamental annuals, shrubs, or trees. The flowers of some of the annual species are large, very showy, and sweet- scented, D. ceratocaulon, white, tinged with purple, D. Chlorantha fi. pi., double yellow, and D. Meteloides (Syn. D. Wrightii), bluish- violet or white are the most generally culti- vated species, and are very showy border annuals. The shrubby species are best known as Brugmansias, under which name they are here described. D. Stramonium, commonly known as Thorn Apple, and in some sections as Jimson Weed, is a coarse- growing, troublesome weed, that seems to delight in filthy door-yards. The seeds and stems of the Datura are powerful narcotic poisons, and many deaths have resulted from eating the seeds. They are sparingly used in medicine, and the dried root is sometimes smoked as a remedy for asthma. Daubento'uia. Named after M. Daubenton, a celebrated naturalist. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. A genus of green-house evergreen shrubs, chiefly remarkable for their curious, quadran- gular seed pods, which are three to four inches long, stalked, pointed, and furnished with wings along the angles. Their red or yellow, flowers, resembling the Laburnum, are borne on short axillary racemes. They are natives of Texas and Buenos Ayres. Propagated by seeds and cuttings of ripened young shoots. Introduced in 1820. Syn. Sisbania. Daube'nya. In honor of Dr. Daubeny, Pro- fessor of Botany in the University of Oxford. Nat. Ord. IAliaoem. A genus consisting of two species of yellow flowering bulbs from the Cape of Good Hope. They are very dwarf, the flower stalks being from three to six inches high, upon which is borne an umbel of small showy flowers. They are of easy culture, in a dry, warm situation, and with slight protection they will endure our winters. The safer way is to treat them the same as Gladiolus. Propagated by offsets. Da'ucus. Carrot. From daio, to make hot; in allusion to its supposed effect in medicine. Nat. Ord. Umbelliferai. For description of this genus, see Carrot. DEC Dava'llia. Hare's-foot Fern. Named after Edmund Davall, a Swiss botanist. Nat. Ord. Polypodicem. A fine and extensive genus of tropical Ferns. They have scaly, creeping rhizomes, which are covered with close brown hair, which feature has given rise to the name of Hare's-foot Fern. The genus is well marked by natural features, and is one of the most elegant to be found in our green-houses. Propagated by division of roots and by spores. Intro- duced in 1699. Acrophorus, Humata, Leueos- tegia, Microlepia, Stenoloma, etc., are included in this genus by some botanists. Davidso'nia. Queensland Plum. Named after the discoverer of the plant, who found it in a sugar plantation. Nat. Ord. Saxifragacece. D.pruriens (Syn. pungens), the only introduced species, is a noble looking and desirable orna- mental plant, with leaves nearly two feet long. In the young state the leaves are of a bright red color, from which they pass to a deep green. It produces a succulent edible fruit and is one of the most interesting plants in Queensland. It was introduced from Austra- lia in 1877. Davie'sia. Named after Rev. Hugh Davies, a Welsh botanist. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. Handsome green-house evergreens from New Holland. Like all other plants from that country, they require a bountiful supply of air on all favorable occasions through the winter, and in summer they are much better placed in the open air, so that they are slightly shaded from the mid-day sun. Some of the species have a sub-scandent habit, which, with their densely-filled, drooping spikes of yellow and red flowers, gives them a very graceful appearance. Propagated by cuttings from well-ripened side shoots. Introduced in 1792. Dawn Flower. Blue. A popular name for Ipomoza Learii. Day Flower. See Commelyna. Day Lily. See Funkia and Hemerocallis. Deadly Nightshade. A common name for Atropa Belladonna. Dead Nettle. A common name for the genus Lamium, a few species of which have become naturalized in this country to such an extent as to be troublesome. Natives of Europe. Dead-wort. Sambucus Ebulus. Dealbate. Covered with a very opaque white powder. Decai'snea. Named in honor of Joseph Decaisne, a distinguished French botanist, 1807-1882. Nat. Ord. Berberidaceas. One of the most remarkable of Indian dis- coveries. With the habit of an Araliaceous plant it exhibits the characters of the Ber- beridacese and Lardizabalacese. D.insignis,the only species, is an elegant tree with greenish flowers borne in terminal racemes It is a native of the humid forests of Sikkim and Bhotan, whence it was introduced in 1883. Deciduous. Falling off. Leaves which are shed annually are said to be deciduous; as are also trees that annually lose their leaves. So also the calyx and corolla of Cruciferw. Deciduous Cypress. Taxodium distichum. Declinate. Bent downwards. 122 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS DEC Decompound, Decomposite. Having vari- ous divisions or ramifications ; a leaf is said to be decompound when it is twice pinnated ; a panicle, when its branches are also panicled. Decuma'ria. From decuma, a tent; referring to the ten valvate divisions of the calyx, and the ten cells of the capsule or seed-pod. Nat. Ord. Saxifragacem. A climbing shrub of the Southern States. Allied to Philadelphia. The flowers are white, sweet-scented, and arranged in corymbs.. They are well adapted for growing against walls, thriving in almost any soil or situation. Prop- agated by cuttings or from seed. Decumbent. Reclining upon the earth and rising again from it; applied to stems when they recline upon the surface of the earth, but have a tendency to rise again at the extrem- ities. Decurrent. Where the limb of a leaf is pro- longed down the stem on each side, below the point of insertion, or where the midrib quits it ; as though the leaf were partially united to the stem by its midrib. Common in the Thistles. Decussate. Arranged in pairs that alternately cross each other; when two right lines cross each other at right angles they are said to be decussate ; leaves are often placed in this position, as in Ixora parviflora, Phlox decussata, etc. Deerberry. One of the popular names of Vac- cinium stamineum. Deer-Grass. See Rhexia. Deflexed. Bending gradually downwards through the whole length. Deformation. An alteration in the usual form of an organ, by accident or otherwise. Degeneration. Some peculiarity in the condi- tion of an organ, induced by modification of the circumstances under which its more usual and healthy development is effected. Deherai'nia. Named after Pierre-Paul Deherain, assistant naturalist of the Museum of the Jardin des Plantes, Paris. Nat. Ord. Myrsin- acecs. D. smaragdina, the only species, is an inter- esting warm green-house plant, remarkable for its large green Primrose-like flowers dis- posed in clusters below the leaves. It was introduced from Mexico in 1876. Syn. Theo- phrasta smaragdina. Dehiscent. Opening, gaping; an expression applied to the mode in which the anthers or the capsule burst open and discharge their contents. Delphi'nium. Larkspur. From delphin, a dol- phin ; in reference to the supposed resem- blance in the nectary of the plant to the imaginary figures of the dolphin. Nat. Ord. RanunculacecB. Well-known annual, biennial, and perennial plants, with curiously-cut leaves and splendid flowers, which are either scarlet, purple, pink, blue, or white, and never yellow. The Siberian Larkspurs are remarkable for the metallic luster of their flowers, the hue of which re- sembles that of silver which has been tar- nished by fire; and the Bee Larkspurs are remarkable and interesting for the curious manner in which the petals are folded up in the center of the flower, so as to resemble a DEN bee, or a large blue-bottle fly. The Larkspurs will grow in any soil or situation, but one open to the sun suits them best. They are improved by the addition of a good deal of thoroughly-rotted manure to the soil in which they grow. The seeds keep good a long time, and those of the annual kinds do best sown in autumn, as when sown in spring they are a long time before they flower. The perennials are propagated by division of the root, or by seed, which is sown in March in the green- house or hot-bed, and the plants pricked out as soon as they show their second pair of leaves, are carefully grown on until the first of June, and then turned out into the flower- garden ; they will flower finely during the au- tumn months. See " Herbaceous plants/' Deltoid. Of a triangular shape, like the Greek capital /\. Dendro'bium. From dendron, a tree, and bios, life ; referring to the way these air-plants fasten on trees for support. Nat. Ord. Orchi- dacetB. In this extensive genus we are presented with some truly magnificent epiphytes, which regarded either for their singular manner of growing, graceful or grotesque habits, and large, handsome, and richly-scented flowers, are perhaps unsurpassed in the entire range of vegetable forms. In a cultural sense they may be divided into two sections, the pseudo- bulbous class, and those with tall bulbous stems. Many of the former are extremely small compared with the splendid flowers they produce, and from this circumstance, are usually grown on blocks of wood or cork, lest the young shoots should receive injury from excessive moisture. Those belonging to the other section are again divisible. The upright growing species, such as D. nobile, made the best appearance when cultivated in pots, and trained into suitable forms by the aid of stakes ; those of pendent trailing habits should be grown in baskets suspended from the roof of the house ; in either case the soil should be composed of about equal parts of fibrous peat and sphagnum, with a liberal ad- dition of pieces of charcoal. The mixture should be thoroughly incorporated without breaking it fine, and an efficient drainage must be secured, or the plants will not thrive. The base of their stems should be elevated two, three or four inches, according to the size of the plant, above the top of the pot or basket, as they are liable to much injury from damp when making their new shoots. The temperature of the house in which these plants are grown is a consideration of the first consequence to their successful culture ; it requires to be assimilated, as nearly as cir- cumstances will allow, to that of their native positions, and may be described as of three dis- tinct phases, a dry and warm season, in which the plants produce their flowers, to be suc- ceeded by one still warmer, and in which an abundance of moisture must be present, as it is at this time that new growths are effected, and this active season must be followed by one suited to produce a state of repose in the plants, by reducing the amount of heat con- siderably, and restricting the supply of moisture to the least possible quantity. This season is that which corresponds with our winters, and for convenience should be re- AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 123 DEN ferred to that time. Thus, from December to about the end of March, or later for some species, may be regarded as the period first mentioned, the growing season commencing with each individual as soon as its flowering is over, and continuing until the growth is complete, which is usually about the end of August or some part of September, when they require the perfect rest already spoken of. It is in the variation of these seasons, the with- holding or appliance of heat, that the whole art of the management lies. If it is done correctly, and at the proper time, of course the plant progresses satisfactorily, but other- wise all is confusion; the plant continues growing, but does not flower, becoming weaker each season. An average of 55°, with but slight alteration, should be observed for the dormant season; increasing it gradually to 65° or 70° for the flowering period, and after this is past, the temperature may be allowed to run up to 85°, 90°, or even more through the summer, keeping a proportionate amount of moisture in the atmosphere of the house by means of frequent steaming, syringing, etc. The genus consists of over 200 species, of which upward of eighty have been intro- duced into the green-house, and some of the species are grown to an extent that warrants their use as a cut-flower. Their appearance in the florists' windows is by no means rare, the more common being D. nobile, which flowers freely in the green-house during the winter, and is one of the very few Orchids that will grow and flower very well in the ordinary sitting-room. They are natives of India, Australia, and the Pacific Islands. See Orchids. Dendrochi'lum. From dendron, a tree, and cheilos, a lip. Nat. Ord. OrchidacecB. A small genus of East Indian Orchids, chiefly of little interest. One or two of the species are highly esteemed by those who make a specialty of Orchids. D. glumaceum is a very handsome species, of neat habit, producing graceful drooping spikes of ivory- white flowers; the leaves, resembling those of the Lily of the Valley, gives the plant an in- teresting appearance when out of flower. D. filiforme is another graceful little plant, with yellow flowers. This genus requires to be grown in heat, and the plants, when at rest, should have an occasional watering, as the pseudo-bulbs are quite small, and, if allowed to shrivel, the plants would be lost. They are increased by division. Introduced in 1836. Dendrome'con. Tree Poppy. From dendron, a tree, and mekon, a poppy ; resembling that flower, with a woody stem. Nat. Ord. Pa- paveracece. D. rigidum, the only species, is a hardy small shrubby plant, with yellow flowers, a native of California. The common name is very ap- propriate, the plant having the appearance and character of the Poppy tribe, with a woody stem and branches. Increased bv seeds. Dendro'panax. From dendron, a tree, and Panax, Tree Panax. Nat. Ord. Araliaceaz. Very handsome and effective warm green- house plants. There are about twenty species, natives of tropical Asia and America, as well as China and Japan. D. argentea, has oblong, entire leaves about a foot in length, DES silvery white on the upper surface — purplish beneath. It is the only species in general cultivation. Dennstae'dia. Derivation of name not given. Nat. Ord. Polypodiaceaz. A genus of Ferns, now merged in Dicksonia, The name is also a synonym of Sitolobium. Denta'ria. Toothwort. Pepper-root. From dens, a tooth ; referring to the fanged roots. Nat. Ord. Cruciferce. A genus of hardy herbaceous perennials, several of the species being common in most of the States. The roots of D. diphylla have a pungent, mustard-like taste, and are con- siderably used as a salad, under the name of Pepper-root. The plant is somewhat orna- mental, of a dwarf habit, producing short racemes of white or purplish flowers. They are increased readily by division. Dentate. Having sharp teeth with concave edges. When these teeth are themselves toothed, the part is duplicato- dentate ; not bidentate, which means two-toothed. Depa'ria. From depas, a cup, referring to the form of the involucre. A small genus of rare stove ferns, with generally bipinnate fronds. Some of the species may be propagated from the small bulblets they form on their fronds. Depauperate. When some part is less per- fectly developed than is usual in plants of the same family. Depressed. Pressed downward; having the appearance of being flattened vertically, as the tuber of the Turnip. Descending. Tending gradually downward, as some branches and leaves. Also, penetrating more or less vertically into the eajrth, as with the root, the descending axis of vegetation. Desfontai'nea. In honor of M. Desfontaines, a French botanist. Nat. Ord. Loganiacem. The few species that compose this genus are very handsome green-house evergreen shrubs, found in Peru. They have thick leaves with spiny margins, like those of the Holly. This is one of the plants that perplexes the bota- nist, as there is nothing in its external appear- ance that would lead to a knowledge of its affinities. It has been placed under three different classifications previous to the present one. D. spinosa, the only described species, has large flowers borne on terminal pedun- cles, scarlet, with a yellow limb. The elegance of its foliage and the brilliancy of its flowers make it a very desirable green-house plant. It requires about the same treatment as the Fuchsia. Introduced in 1850. Designs. According to Loudon, the art of taking plans or designs of objects, should be considered to be part of a gardener's general education, since none who aspire to any degree of eminence in their profession ought to be ignorant of the first principles of geome- try and drawing. It is just as necessary in laying out a flower-garden, or planting an intricate carpet-bed, to have the dimensions carefully measured and a design drawn to a scale, as it is to have a working plan in building a house. This not only enables the operator to arrange previously the positions and space to be occupied by the various plants, but if a colored design is made, enables him also to see that the proportions of color are 124 HENDEKSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS DES properly inserted. A glance at the design, when planting, will at once indicate the posi- tions assigned to all the plants, and also pre- vent much confusion and annoyance. Intri- cate carpet-bedding designs are often worked out by marking the lines with white sand; others may be drawn out carefully on the sur- face and planted at once. Designs for glass structures vary according to their position or to the requirements of the plants for which they are intended, but each should show in the same proportion all the details necessary for a good working plan. Desma'nthus. From desme, a bundle, and an- thos, a flower. The flowers are collected into bundles or spikes. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A genus of tropical and sub-tropical Indian and American herbs, of which there are about eight species, some of which have been suc- cessfully cultivated. The little brown pol- ished seeds of D. Virgatus are in Jamaica strung like beads, and used for making brace- lets, etc. Desmo'dium. Moving Plant, Tick-Trefoil. From desmos, a band ; alluding to the stamens being joined. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. An extensive genus of hardy herbaceous perennials and green-house evergreen shrubs. Most of the species are uninteresting plants, but a few are very beautiful and remarkably interesting. There are numerous species throughout the United States, with purple flowers produced in slender racemes. Some are herbs, others shrubs, but none of the native species are worthy of cultivation. The most interesting of the species, if not the most beautiful, is D. gyrans, the Moving Plant, a native of India, but rarely seen under culti- vation. The singular, spontaneous rotary motion of the leaflets of this plant renders it an object of great interest. The leaves are composed of thi-ee leaflets, the terminal one being very large, and the laterals very small, but these are almost constantly in motion. They execute little jerks somewhat analogous to the movements of the seconds of a watch. One of the loaflets arises and the other de- scends at the same time, and with a corres- ponding force. When the first begins to de- scend the other begins to rise. The large leaflet moves also, inclining itself first to the right, then to the left, but by a continuous and very slow movement when compared to that of the lateral leaflets. This singular mechanism endures throughout the life of the plant. It exercises itself day and night, through drought and humidity. The warmer and more humid the day, the more lively are its movements. It is not unusual for the leaflet to make sixty jerks in the minute ; they will not do this, however, under artificial cul- tivation, except when the plant is subjected to great heat. These movements occur spon- taneously and without any apparent cause. The same external cause that has such a won- derful effect on the Catch-fly and the Sensitive Plant, does not affect this in the least. None of our native species has this strong peculi- arity. The plant introduced to the United States from Japan as Desmodiumpenduliflorum, is now placed under the allied genus Lespe- deza, as L. bicolor, which see. Deu'tzia. Named after J. Deutz, a sheriff of Amsterdam. Nat. Ord. Saxifragaceae. DIA A genus of slender branched, graceful shrubs, producing compound panicles of beau- tiful white flowers. D. crenata, Syn. D. Scabra, one of the more common species, takes its specific name from the roughness of its leaves, which in its native country, Japan, are used by the cabinet makers in polishing the finer kinds of wood. This with its double variety, are exceedingly showy when in blos- som, and are two of the most desirable shrubs in cultivation. D. gracilis in addition to its beauty and usefulness as a hardy shrub, is one of the most valuable plants for forcing in winter and spring, and is very largely used for that purpose for the cut flower trade. All the species are perfectly hardy, and are read- ily propagated by cuttings, divisions, or layers. Development. That gradual extension of parts by which any organ or plant proceeds from its nascent state to maturity. Devil in a Bush. See Nigella. Devil's Apples. Mandragora officinalis. Devil's Bit. A common name for Chamoelirium luteum, also for Scabiosa succisa. Devil's Fig. Argemone Mexicana. Devil's Leaf. Urtica urentissima. Devil's Milk. Euphorbia Helioscopia, and other species. Dew-berry. See Rubus. Deyeu'xia. Named in honor of Nicholas Dey- eux, a French chemist. Nat. Ord. Gramin- OCMR. A large genus of grasses widely dispersed over the temperate and mountainous regions of the globe. D. elegans variegata introduced from New South Wales in 1884, is a very ele- gant green-house plant, with a thick root- stock from which spring numerous leaves, about a quarter of an inch in breadth and a foot or more long, of a deep bright green color, broadly edged with creamy-yellow. Syn. Lachnagrostis. Dhoura, Doura, or Durra. Guinea Corn. See Sorghum. Diane'lla. A diminutive of Diana, the sylvan goddess; the first discovered species being found in a grove. Nat. Ord. Liliacem. Lovely tuberous-rooted plants, chiefly from New Holland. They should be grown in pots of loam and peat, and if allowed a good situa- tion in the green-house, will produce their showy blue flowers in abundance. Propagated by division or from seed. Dianthe'ra. From dis, two, and anthera, an- ther ; in reference to the cells being more or less separated from one another. Nat. Ord. Acanthacew. A genus of green-house or hardy, erect, or dwarf herbs, with long solitary or fascicled bracteate flowers and entire leaves. D. Amer- icana, the Water-willow of the United States, is a perennial herb growing in the bays and slow-flowing waters of the great rivers, as well as in streams and ponds. It has long narrow leaves and dense spikes of pale purple flowers upon long peduncles. D. ciliata is a pretty violet-colored, warm green-house shrub from Venezuela. The genus is closely allied to Justicia. DICTAMNTTS FBAXINELLA. DELPHINIUM FORM06UM. DIANTHUS GARDNERIANUS. DIANTHUS SCOTICUS, DIANTHUS (STREET WILLIAM). DICKSONIA ANTARCTICA. DIANTHUS (TYPE OF DOUBLE ANNUAL). AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 125 DIA Dia'nthus. From dios, divine, and anthos, a flower ; in reference to the fragrance and the unrivaled neatness of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Caryophyllacece. Most of the species of this genus are highly valued for the beauty and fragrance of the flowers, which present a richer variety of tints of scarlet, crimson, rose, orange, etc., than is to be found, perhaps, in any other genus. The fragrance of some of them is peculiarly grate- ful, and no plant in this respect surpasses the Carnation, D. caryophyllus (Clove Pink and Carnation). Seedlings stand the winter and spring without difficulty with a light covering of leaves and evergreen boughs, and flower very well. Very many will not be considered worth saving by the florist, although they will all be interesting as single, semi-double, or irregular flowers, and richly repay all the labor. Carnations are arranged by florists into three classes, viz. : Flakes, Bizarres and Picotees. Flakes have two colors only ; their stripes are large, going quite through the petals. Bizarres are variegated in irregular spots and stripes, with not less than three colors. Picotees have a white ground, spotted at the edges with scarlet, red, purple or other colors. The Clove Pink is rather more hardy than the Carnation, of which it is the parent ; the petals are more fringed and the fragrance more powerful, resembling that of the clove. In France it is called the Clove Gilly-flower. Some suppose this latter name to have been corrupted from July-flower, July being its flowering time. The great improvement in the Perpetual Carnation (Tree or Monthly Carnation) has added an invaluable feature to this section of winter-blooming plants for the sitting-room, conservatory or green- house. The delicately rich and grateful odor, in connection with the brilliant color and good outline of the flowers now cultivated, secures for them a prominent place in the forcing department for cut flowers. D. plu- marius, the Garden Pink, Florist's Pink, or Paisley Pink, is in perfection about the last of June. The foliage is more grass-like and the plant much hardier than the Carnation. The double varieties are very desirable, and all have a clove fragrance. D. Chinensis, the China Pink, is a biennial of dwarf habit and great beauty, but without fragrance. It flow- ers from seed the first year, and being per- fectly hardy, flowers much stronger the sec- ond year. The colors are exceedingly varied and rich; crimson, and dark shades of that color approaching to black, are often com- bined in the same flower, with edgings of white, pink or other colors. In beds where there may be a hundred plants, scarcely two will be found alike. Seed saved from double flowers will produce a great proportion of double flowers. D. C. Heddewigii and D. C. ladniatus and their numerous varieties repre- sent an exceedingly useful class of plants for mixed borders, many of their flowers being double and beautifully marked and fringed. D. barbatus, the Sweet William, is an old inhabitant of the flower-garden, and was much esteemed in Gerarde's time "for its beauty to deck up the bosoms of the beautiful, and gar- lands, and crowns for pleasure." It sports into endless varieties of color, white, pink, purple, crimson and scarlet self colors, and many sorts variously edged, eyed or spotted. DIC There are also many beautiful double-flowered varieties, notably the double dark crimson or blood-colored, which, of course, can only be perpetuated by division or by cuttings. Diape'nsia. Named by Linneeus from diapente, composed of five ; alluding to the flowers being five-cleft. Nat. Ord. Diapensiacece. This genus consists of two beautiful little Alpine plants, both evergreen, which grow in dense tufts, scarcely rising more than an inch above the ground. The flowers are white, bell-shaped, and about half an inch across. It was first discovered in Lapland, but has since been found in the White Mountains, in New Hampshire, and in the Adirondacks, in New York. In its native country it is continually covered with snow in winter, which is the best protection against severe dry frosts. It can be grown in small pots, and protected by a frame in winter. Propagated by seeds or division. Diapensia'ceae. A small order of perennial, prostrate, sometimes suffruticose, shrubs, inhabiting the northern parts of Europe and North America. The order includes the genera Diapensia, Pyxidanthera, Galax, Shortia, as well as some others not yet in cultivation. Dibber. This is the pointed implement used for setting out vegetable plants that have long roots, such as Cabbage, Celery, etc., and also seedling trees and flowering plants. It is best made in the form of a pistol handle, about ten inches long, one and a half inches in diameter, and shod with three or four inches of iron tapering to a sharp point. Dice'ntra. From dis, twice, and kentron, a spur ; in allusion to the double-spurred flowers. Nat. Ord. Fumariacece. Very ornamental, hardy herbaceous peren- nials, with generally tuberous roots. They are natives of the northern hemisphere, and have mostly pink or yellow flowers, in ter- minal racemes. They form excellent subjects for the herbaceous border or rock-garden. Diclytra or Dielytra spectabilis is placed by many under this genus. See Dielytra. Dichlamy'deous. Having both calyx and cor- olla. Dichopo'gon. From dicha, double, and pogon, a beard ; in allusion to the two appendages of the anthers. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. A small genus of green-house perennial herbs, natives of Australia and Tasmania. D. strictus, the only species yet in cultivation, is a very interesting plant, with pale, sometimes dark-blue flowers, blooming in November. It was introduced in 1883, and may be increased by division of the rhizome, or by the tubers on the root-fibres. Dicho'riza'ndra. From dis, twice, chorizo, to part, and aner, an anther; referring to the anthers being two-cleft. Nat. Ord. Commeli- nacecB. A genus of hot-house, herbaceous peren- nials from Brazil, some of the species being exceedingly ornamental and invaluable for late autumn or winter flowering. D. thyrsi- flora ranks highest, and when well grown will reach ten feet in height, branched all round, each branch terminating with a long spike of sky-blue flowers. When the flowers begin to expand it may be removed to a warm con- servatory, where it will last in bloom for 126 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS DIC several weeks. D. musaica is a beautiful ornamental-foliaged species, with dark-green leaves, profusely penciled and veined, with zig-zag lines of pure white ; under side red- dish-purple. Propagated by division in spring, when the new growth commences, and by seeds. Dicho'tomous. Having the divisions always in pairs; a term equally applied to branches, veins, or forks. Dickso'nia. Named after James Dickson, a famous British cryptogamic botanist. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacem. A genus of very ornamental Ferns, mostly arborescent, and including some of the most valued Tree Ferns to be found in our green- houses. D. antartica, a native of Australia, introduced in 1824, is'the one most commonly grown, and is the most ornamental of the genus. D. arborescens, a native of St. Helena, grows about twelve feet high, bearing at its summit a number of pinnated fronds, from ten to twelve feet in length. This species grows in great abundance in St. Helena, and next to the tomb of Napoleon, is the great attraction of the island. It is remarkable that this species has not been found in any other part of the world. All the Tree Ferns should be grown in a mixture of loam and leaf mould, and require a humid atmosphere. Young plants may be raised from spores, but it takes many years for them to grow to the size of imported stems, to which method we are indebted for all our large plants. One species, D. punctilobula, a hardy herbaceous plant, is a native of this country, very common in moist, rather shady places. It is one of our hand- somest Ferns, and has an agreeable odor. Dicli'ptera. From diklos, double-doored, and pteron, a wing ; referring to the two-winged capsule or seed vessel. Nat. Ord. Acanthacece. An extensive genus of annuals and peren- nials, allied to Justicia. The species are dis- persed over the tropical and sub-tropical regions of the New and Old World. The annuals grow readily from seed, which should be started in a hot-bed, or the green-house, in March, grown on until all danger from frost is past, and then transplanted in the open border. The perennials are increased by cut- tings. They all require a very light, rich fibrous soil. Dicotyle'dons. Plants having two seed leaves, which are called cotyledons. This is one of the primary divisions or classes of the vege- table kingdom, including about 7,000 known genera, and about 70,000 known species of flowering plants. The class also receives the name of Exogens, from the structure of the stems. The plants of this great class have spiral vessels; their stems are formed by additions externally in the form of zones or rings ; stomata or pores exist in the leaves, which have a reticulated or netted venation. The plants have stamens and pistils, either in the same or in different flowers. The sym- metry of the flowers is represented by five or two, or multiples of these numbers. The ovules are contained in an ovary, or more rarely are naked ; and the embryo has two, sometimes more, cotyledons. Dicta'mnus. Fraxinella, Gas Plant. An ancient name, supposed to have been given because DID the leaves resemble those of the ash ; hence the English name, Fraxinella. Nat. Ord. Rutacece. A small genus of hardy herbaceous peren- nials, and among the oldest inhabitants of the cottage garden. Johnson says: "Instances are known where D. Fraxinella has outlived father, son, and grandson in the same spot without increase, all attempts at multiply- ing it, to give away a rooted slip to a newly- married member of the family, having failed ; yet the Fraxinella is easily increased from seeds, which should be sown soon as ripe in any common garden soil. They will come up the following spring." The plant has to be three years old before it will flower. It is a native of Germany. When rubbed the leaves emit a fine odor, like that of lemon peel ; it is strongest in the pedicels of the flowers. The whole plant emits a resinous or oily matter, which may be readily ignited, especially in warm weather. Dictya'nthus. From diktyon, net work, and anthos, a flower; the flowers are netted with veins. Nat. Ord. Asclepiadacem. Green-house climbers of considerable beauty, from Central America and Brazil. They will do well, planted out in summer, but require green-house culture during winter. The same treatment that is given the Passi- flora will suit them. The flowers are whitish- purple and greenish-brown, borne on axillary peduncles. D. campanulatus somewhat re- sembles the Stapelia. Propagated by cuttings. Introduced in 1851. Dictyogra'mma. A genus of Ferns now placed under Gymnogramma. Dictyo'pteris. From diktyon, a net, and pteris, a Fern; referring to the fronds. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. A genus of Ferns from Australia, without special merit, and rarely met in collections : now placed under Polypodium. Dictyospe'rma. From diktyon, a net, and sperma, a seed ; in allusion to the raphe of the seed forming a loose net-work. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. A genus of warm-house Palms, closely al- lied to Areca, from which genus it is botanically distinct. Didi'scus. Derivation of name not given. Nat. Ord. Umbelliferai. The two species that compose this genus were formerly included in Trachymene. D. cczruleus is a showy plant, a native of Austra- lia. It is covered with hairs ; its leaves are three-parted, each division again sub- divided; its flowers are blue. The fruit, when mature, is covered with small tubercles. D. albiflorus has no hairs, and its flowers are white. Didymoca'rpus. From didymos, twin, and karpos, a fruit ; in reference to the twin cap- sules. Nat. Ord. Gesneracece. A genus of upwards of thirty species of caulescent or stemless herbs, or under- shrubs, natives of tropical Asia. The flowers are violet-blue, rarely yellow, leaves usually cordate, wrinkled, and hairy. Those in cultivation are neat, pretty plants ; propa- gated by cuttings of the young wood. AND GENEKAL HORTICULTURE. 127 DID Didymochlae'na. From didymos, twin, and chlaina, a cloak ; referring to the covering of the spore cases. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. A small genus of very handsome green-house Ferns, natives of Africa and South America. They are allied to Aspidiwm, and are not often met with, except in choice collections. Dieffenba'chia. Named after Dr. Dieffenbach, a German botanist. Nat. Ord. Aroidece. A genus of showy plants, all inhabitants of tropical America and the West Indies. They are grown for the beauty of their foliage, which is a very light green, thickly dotted with irregularly-shaped, pure white blotches, which give the plant a decidedly variegated appearance. A number of very choice and beautiful species have been introduced of late years from the United States of Colombia. They require a warm house, and should be kept near the glass to bring out their full colors. When at rest, if water is thrown over them, they are liable to damp off. The juice of these plants is decidedly poisonous; for this reason, and their awkward appearance when at rest, they have lost much of the favor that was bestowed upon them at their early introduction. D. Seguine picta (Syn. Caladium seguinum), is called the "dumb cane" by the natives, because it has the power, when chewed, of swelling the tongue and paralyzing the speech. It is said that Humboldt, when gathering the plant, un- fortunately tasted it, and, in consequence, lost his speech for several days. They are propagated by division and by cuttings, and should be grown in a light, rich loam, freely mixed with sand and leaf mould. Diely'tra. After years of learned discussion among botanists as to the derivation of this word, it is now accepted that it was errone- ously changed from Diclytra, which, in the first instance, was accidentally printed for Dicentra. As, however, D. spectabilis is so well know as Dielytra, we describe it under that name. Nat. Ord. Fumariacece. D. spectabilis. the " Bleeding Heart," a na- tive of Siberia, was found by Mr. Fortune in the gardens in the north of China, and sent it, in 1846, to the London Horticultural Society. This species is too well known to need description. It is only proper, how- ever, to say it is. by far the handsomest of its tribe, and will grow in thick groves or in the most sunny situations. In the shade they do not flower so freely as in sunny places, but last longer, and more than compensate the loss of flowers by their luxuriant, graceful foliage. This species is well adapted for pot culture. It should be potted in November, left outside until it has formed new roots, and then brought into a gentle heat, and it will come into flower early in March. Taking it all in all, it is probably the finest hardy plant in cultivation. The plants are increased by division of roots, which should be done as soon as they start in spring. Diervi'lla. Named after M. Dierville, a French surgeon. Nat. Ord. Caprifoliacece. A small genus of low-growing shrubs, with yellow flowers, appearing in spring, by no means so showy as the allied Japanese genus Weigelia, which by some authors is placed under this genus. They are common from Canada southward. DIL Diffuse. Scattered, widely spread, as in Veronica 8axatilis. Digging. This is now nearly all done by the digging fork in place of the spade, unless in soils that are being broken up from sod. The fork pulverizes the soil much better (the only object to be attained by digging), is much lighter to handle, and the wonder is why, for generations the spade was used, when the manure fork, at the same time in use, had not suggested its value for digging purposes. Digita'lis. Fox-glove. From the Latin digitate, the finger of a glove; referring to the shape of the flower. Nat. Ord. Scrophulariacece. This genus consists of several species, bi- ennials and perennials, all perfectly hardy and of the easiest culture. D. purpurea, the common Fox-glove, has long been cultivated as an ornamental border plant, and is the most useful of the class. There are some with white, rose and yellow flowers that are very beautiful, but not so free flowering. They prefer a rich, loamy soil, and partial shade, and are propagated by seeds or root division. Natives of central Europe, northern Africa and western Asia. A popular English name of the Digitalis purpurea is Witches' Fingers. The plant is used in medicine. Digitate. Where several distinct leaflets radiate from the point of a leaf-stalk; applied to a simple leaf, where the lobes are very narrow, deeply cut, and all extending nearly to the base of the limb, like the extended fingers of the human hand, as in the Horse-Chestnut, Lupins, Spiraia pabnata, etc. Dill. Anethum graveolens. Dill is a hardy bi- ennial plant, a native of Spain, and has been under cultivation in English gardens for nearly three hundred years. The plant grows upright, and resembles Fennel, only it is smaller. The flowers are borne in an umbel, and appear in July. The whole plant is strongly aromatic. The leaves are used in pickles, and to give flavor to soups and sauces. It was formerly included in domestic medicines. It is readily grown from seed in any good garden soil. Dille'nia. A genus of very beautiful lofty ever- green trees, inhabiting dense forests in India, and the Malayan Peninsula and Islands, with very large and showy flowers, something like the Magnolia. D. Speciosa is one of the hand- somest of Indian trees, whether the beautiful foliage is considered or the size and structure of the flowers. Unfortunately it is only suited to places where plenty of room can be af- forded. Dillenia'ceae. This order consists of trees, shrubs, or under-shrubs, found chiefly in India, Australia, and America. There are about thirty known genera and over 200 species. Some are large timber trees while others are valued for their flowers and fruits. Illustrative genera are Dillenia, Oan- dollea, Delima, etc. Dillwy'nia. In honor of L. W. Dillwyn, a British patron of botany. Nat. Ord. Legumi- nosm. Handsome green-house plants, of neat habit of growth, free to flower, and of easy cultiva- tion. An airy part of the green-house should be allotted to them in winter, and through the summer they will be benefited by being 128 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS DIM placed out of doors. It is essential, in order to produce handsome plants, that the young shoots be frequently stopped while the plants are young, or they are liable to overgrow themselves. Propagated by cuttings of the firm side shoots in March or April. They are natives of New Holland, and were first intro- duced in 1794. Dimidiate. Divided into two unequal parts. Dimorpha'nthus. From dimorphus, two formed. Nat. Ord. Araliacece. This genus is composed of herbs and shrubs, natives of China and Japan. Some of the species are very ornamental plants for the green-house or garden. D. Mandschuricus is a deciduous shrub, said to be perfectly hardy. Its handsome multifid leaves are nearly three feet long, and of the same width, which gives the plant a magnificent outline. The young shoots of D. edulis are a delicate article of food, much prized by the Chinese. They are increased by seeds and from cuttings. Dimorphism. A state in which two forms of flower or leaf are produced by the same spe- cies. Dimorphothe'ca. From dimorphus, two formed, and theca, a receptacle ; disk florets of two forms. A genus of half-shrubby or herbaceous plants, principally natives of South Africa. They are all half-hardy plants, closely allied to Calendula. Suitable for border culture in summer, and for the cool green-house in winter. The perennial species are readily grown from cuttings. Dioecious. When a plant bears female flowers on one individual, and male on another. Dio'n. (Sometimes spelled Dioon.) From dis, two, and oon, an egg ; referring to the two- lobed scales which compose the large cones of the cycad, bearing a large nut-like seed at the bottom of each scale ; otherwise from seeds being borne in twos. Nat. Ord. Cycada ■ ceoz. D. edule, the only species, is a beautiful Palm-like plant. Its simple Zamia-like stem bears deep green pinnate leaves, whose leaflets are sword-shaped and sharp pointed. The cone consists of flat scales covered with wool, each scale bearing two large seeds of the size of Chestnuts, that yield a large quantity of starch, which is used as arrow-root. D. edule is extensively cultivated as an ornamental green-house plant, and is propagated by suckers and seeds, and more commonly from imported stems or trunks. It is a native of Mexico, and was introduced in 1844. Syn. Platyzamia. Miquel observes that this genus is more closely allied to certain fossil Cycada- cece, than any other living representative of the order. Dio'naea. Venus's Fly-trap. Diane, one of the names of Venus. Nat. Ord. Droseraceaz. D. muscipula, the only species, is indigenous to the swamps of North Carolina and other Southern States. Aside from all the fables about this plant, it is one of extreme interest to cultivators, owing to the irritability dis- played by the stipulary fringes on the winged leaves. The lamina of the leaf itself is divided by the midrib into two nearly semicircular halves, each of which is fringed with stiff hairs. This leaf exactly resembles a minature rat-trap. When the hairs are touched by a fly DIO or other insect, the sides of the leaf are brought together with a sudden spring, im- prisoning the intruder. Mr. Charles Darwin and other writers claim that the Dioncea not only catches and kills the insect, but that its tissues absorb or feed upon them. Our experiments, carefully and extensively made during the summer of 1878, were such as to cause strong doubts of the correctness of this theory. The Dionma is easily grown in sphagnum moss, kept very moist when the plants are in a growing state. They do rather best when grown in a Wardian case or under a bell glass and are always interesting from their singular insect catching peculiarity. Dioon. See Dion. Diosco'rea. Chinese Yam. After Pedacius Dioscorides, a Greek physician. Nat. Ord. DioscoreacecB. A genus of tuberous-rooted plants that are extensively grown in Africa and the East and West Indies for food. The roots grow to a great size, are mealy, and considered to be easy of digestion. They are roasted and eaten instead of bread. The introduction of the Dioscorea batatas into this country as an article of food some years ago created quite a sensation; although we did not get a very valuable escu- lent, we got a beautiful hardy climber, with clean, glossy foliage and sweet-scented flowers, that are produced in spikes at the base of the leaves. This species was introduced from the West Indies in 1733 and has been of late years advertised and distributed under the name of "Cinnamon Vine." D. villosa, Wild Yam, is quite common in the thickets of New England and to the south and west. Dioscorea'cese. A. natural order of twining shrubs or herbs with tubers either above or below ground, usually alternate leaves with reticulated venation and small staminate and pistillate flowers growing in spikes. They are chiefly natives of tropical countries. Tamus, however, is a native of Europe and of the temperate parts of Asia. The plants are mostly acrid, but contain also a large amount of starch. Several species of Dioscorea pro- duce edible tubers, which are known as Yams, and are eaten like Potatoes. Tamus Com- munis, black Bryony, has an acrid, purgative, and emetic tuber, and a berried fruit of a red color. Testudinaria elephantipes has a remark- able tuberculated stem, and is called Ele- phant's Foot or the Tortoise Plant of the Cape. The central part of it is eaten by the Hot- tentots. There are seven known genera and 160 species. Dioscorea, Tamus, and Testudinaria are examples of the order. Dio'sma. From dios, divine, and osme, odor; referring to the powerful perfume which characterizes the species. Nat. Ord. Rutacece. There is quite a large number of species, all from the Cape of Good Hope. D. ericoides, the species most generally cultivated, has small white flowers, borne on slender heath- like branches, with deep green leaves which emit a strong penetrating smell when bruised. It was introduced to cultivation in 1756, and is valued for its bright glossy color, and neat shrubby habit. Diospyros. Date Plum, Persimmon. From dios, divine, and pyros, pear; literally ce- lestial food. Nat. Ord. Ebenacece. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 129 DIO D. Virginiana is the Persimmon of our woods, common from New York southward. Ebony wood is obtained from several species of this genus. The best and most costly kind with the blackest and finest grain, is that imported from the Mauritius, which is yielded by D. reticulata. It is only the heart of the tree that yields the black ebony ; the outer portion, or sapwood, being white and soft. The Japanese Persimmon is the best fruit in Japan. Their horticulturists have, by selec- tion and cross-fertilization, developed this fruit until it occupies the same position with them that the Apple does with us. It is de- scribed as one of the finest fruits in the world, and ranges in weight from eight to twenty ounces. Prof. Asa Gray says : ' ' He who has not tasted Kaki (the Japanese Persimmon) has no conception of the capabilities of the Diospyros genus." The trees are ornamen- tal, especially when in fruit, prolific bearers, and free from worms and insects. It has proved about as hardy as our native species. Dio'tis. Cotton-weed. From dis, two, and ous, an ear, alluding to the ear-like lobes of the corolla. Nat. Ord. Compositm. D. maritima (Syn. D. candidissima), a native of the shores of the Mediterranean and the Canary Islands, is an erect, branching, hardy perennial, clothed everywhere with dense white or grayish cottony-wool. It forms an excellent edging or rock-garden plant, and is readily increased by cuttings or seeds. This name has also been given to a Siberian cheno- podiaceous shrub, which, however, is more properly united with Eurotia. Dipetalous. Consisting of two petals. Diphyllous. Two-leaved. Dipla'cus. From dis, two, and plakos, a pla- centa ; alluding to the splitting of the capsule, to each valve of which is attached a large pla- centa, and under its edges are found the slen- der subulate seeds. Nat. Ord. Scrophulariacece. This genus, consisting of three or four spe- cies, is closely allied to Mimulus, the princi- pal difference being in its shrubby habit and the seed capsule. D. glutinosus, a native of California, was long cultivated under the name of Mimulus glutinosus. It is an erect, branching plant, becoming more or less branching at the base. The flowers are rather large, solitary in the upper axils, and vary from a pale yellow to a rich orange or scarlet. All the varieties are desirable plants for the green-house or shady border. Propagated by cuttings. Diplade'nia. From diploos, double, and aden, a gland; referring to the presence of two gland- like processes on the ovary. Nat. Ord. Apo- cynacece. A genus of beautiful climbing green-house and hot-house shrubs from Central America and Brazil. The flowers are red, purple, rose, yellow, etc., and are produced in terminal clusters in great abundance, and some few kinds flower when quite small. They delight in a warm, moist atmosphere during their growing season, and require to have their main growths well ripened for the ensuing year. Propagation is effected by cuttings of the young shoots that are produced when the plants commence new growth in spring. Many beautiful hybrids have been produced DIP of late years, which are very desirable for the warm green-house or plant-stove. Dipla'zium. From diplazo, to double; refer- ring to the double covering of the spore cases or seed vessels. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. An extensive genus of handsome evergreen Ferns, closely allied to Asplenium, and requir- ing the same general treatment. The species are pretty generally distributed from North America to Brazil. Diplopa'ppus. A genus of Composite of but little beauty or interest. Diplothe'mium. From diploos, double, and thema, a sheath. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. A genus of very noble Palms, almost stem- less, or developing a short ringed trunk. X>. caudescens, a native of Brazil, has pinnate leaves four to eight feet in length, the closely set narrow pinna? being from eighteen to twenty-four inches long, and about an inch broad. The upper surface is of a glossy green color, and beautiful silvery-white beneath. It is very graceful in habit, and is an excellent plant for lawn or sub-tropical decoration. Dipsaca'ceee. A natural order of herbs or undershrubs, mostly natives of the south of Europe, Barbary, the Levant, and the Cape of Good Hope. Some of the species are as- tringent. Dipsacus Fullonum is the Fuller's Teazel, the dried heads of which, with their hooked, spiny bracts, are used in fulling cloth. The opposite leaves of the wild Teazel, D. sylvestris, unite at their bases so as to form a basin, in which water collects ; hence the plant was called Dipsacus, or thirsty. There are six known genera and about 170 species. Dipsacus, Scabiosa, Morina, and Cephalaria are examples of the order. Dipsa'cus. Teazel. From dipsao, to Lhirst; referring to the cavity formed by the leaves clasping the stem holding water. Nat. Ord. Dipsacacem. Hardy biennials, of but little beauty or use, except D. Fullonum, the Fuller's Teazel, which is a leading farm crop in the town of Skane- ateles, N. Y., the conditions there being so favorable for its growth that it produces nearly all that is used in the United States. It is naturalized in some locations, having escaped from cultivation, and is quite com- mon on the roadsides near Clifton, Staten Island. D. sylvestris, a rather scarce species is suspected to be the origin of the D. Fullo- num, the principal difference being that the long flexible awns of the latter are hooked while those of D. sylvestris are straight. The flower heads, when dried, are used in the manufacture of woolen cloths, and are an article of considerable importance. Natives of Great Britain. Dipteraca'nthus. This genus is now referred to Ruellia, which see. Dipteroca'rpeae. An order of resin-bearing trees, all the species of which are found in the tropics of the Old World. Flowers often sweet scented, disposed in axillary panicles. Dryabalanops Camphora or aromatica, a tree from 100 to 130 feet high, supplies the hard Camphor of Sumatra, which exists in a solid state in the interior of the stem, some- times in pieces weighing from ten to twelve pounds. It also yields by incision a resinous, 130 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS DIP oily fluid called the Liquid Camphor or Cam- phor Oil of Borneo. Sometimes five gallons of the fluid are found in a cavity in the trunk. Several others yield valuable resins. There are seven known genera and forty-seven species. Dipterocarpus, Valeria, Dryobalanops, and Shorea are examples of the order. Dipterous. Having two wing-like processes, as the seeds of Halesia diptera. Di'pterix. Tonquin Bean. From dis, double, and pterix, a wing ; referring to the two upper segments of the calyx. Nat. Ord. Leguminosw. D. odorata, the only species, is an orna- mental evergreen tree, a native of Cayenne. It produces the Tonquin or Tonga Bean of commerce, so much used by perfumers, and in the adulteration of the extract of Vanilla. Di'rca. Leather- wood, Moose- wood. From dirke, a fountain ; the plant growing in moist places. Nat. Ord. Thymelacece. D. palustris, the only species, is a much- branched shrub growing about six feet high. The flowers are small and yellow, and pro- duced in clusters. They are followed by small reddish, poisonous fruit. The fibrous bark of this shrub is remarkably tough, and was used by the Indians for thongs, whence the popular names. It is common in moist ground from Pennsylvania and Kentucky northward. In some of the New England States it is called Wicopy. Di'sa. Meaning unknown, but supposed to be its native name. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. An extensive genus of terrestrial Orchids confined to South Africa and Abyssinia. There is a wide variation in the habit of the various species. D. grandiflora is perhaps the most beautiful of all terrestrial Orchids. It is spoken of as the pride of Table Mountain, where it grows in great profusion on the borders of streams and water pools, which are dry in summer, producing its gorgeous flowers in February and March. The flowers are large, the sepals of a deep scarlet crim- son ; petals tipped with white and green, pale yellow inside. The species have been considered the most difficult to manage of any in cultivation. Mr. Rand differs with most growers upon this point, having been quite successful in flowering them, with the following treatment : " The soil for this plant should be rich, fibrous peat and loam. It should have but little heat, and never be allowed to dry off. The great trouble in its culture appears to be want of water. If there is good drainage it can scarcely have too much. It does not need much heat, and should be grown with a good circulation of air, and not full sun." Propagated by division. Introduced in 1825. Disca'ria. A genus of Rhamnacem, nearly allied to Colletia, but differing in having no petals. Natives of Australia and South America. D. 8erratifolia, with its bright green spiny branches and foliage, makes an excellent plant for pot culture. Dischi'dia. From dis, twice, and schizo, to split ; referring to an obscure process in the con- struction of the flower. Nat. Ord. Asclepia- daceas. Nearly related to Stephanotis and Hoya. A small genus of ornamental green-house ever- green trailers. The flowers are white, and DIS are borne in the axils of the leaves, of but little merit. A plant Discoid. When, in Composites, the ray florets are suppressed, the head of the flowers is said to be discoid. Discolor. Parts having one surface of one color, and the other surface of another color. Also, any green color altered by a mixture of purple, as in Cissus discolor. Dise'mma. From dis, double, and stemma, a crown ; referring to the double coronet or rays. Nat. Ord. Passifloracew. This genus is closely allied to Passiflora, requires the same general treatment, and is propagated in the same manner. Some of the species are very beautiful, and worthy of cul- tivation. They are natives of New Holland ; first introduced in 1792. Dish-rag Plant. See Lvffa. Disk. An organ intervening between the stamens and ovary. The central tubular flowers of Composite are also called the Disk. Disoca'ctus. From dis, twice, isos, equal, and cactos; the divisions of the petals and sepals equal and twice two, and the habit of a Cac- tus. Nat. Ord. Cactacem. There is but one known species of this genus, which is a weak trailing shrub or bush, a connecting link between two sections of the order the Epiphyllwm and Rhipsalis. The flowers are produced singly from one of the notches at the upper end of the young branches, and are characterized by having only four sepals and four petals. They are of a deep pink color, about two inches long, pro- duced in succession, last a long time, and are succeeded by beautiful little shiny, deep crimson berries. The plant should be grown in soil composed of equal parts of sharp sand, leaf mould, and turfy loam. In a growing state it should have a moist atmosphere, but in winter it should be kept dry, with plenty of light; it may be increased by cuttings or seeds. It is a native of Honduras, and was introduced in 1839. By many botanists this genus is united with Phillocactus, from which it only differs in its fewer sepals and petals. Dispe'ris. From dis, double, and pera, a pouch ; in allusion to the form of the outer segments of the perianth. Nat. Ord. Orchidaceee. A small genus of terrestrial Orchids from the Cape of Good Hope, bearing scarlet or purple flowers. It requires the same treat- ment in propagation and culture as Disa. Dispermus. Two-seeded. Dispo'rum. From dis, double, and poros, a pore ; application not stated. Nat. Ord. IAliacem. A genus of half-hardy herbaceous plants, allied to Uvularia. The flowers are small, but rather pretty, of brown or yellow colors. They succeed well in a warm border, if slightly pro- tected in winter, and are propagated by division of the roots. Natives of China and Nepal ; introduced in 1801. Dissected. Cut into many deep lobes. Dissemination. The manner in which ripe seeds of plants are naturally dispersed. Distichous. When parts are arranged in two rows, the one opposite the other, as the florets of many grasses. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 131 DIS Distinct. When any part or organ is wholly unconnected with those near it. Ditch Stone-Crop. The common name of Pen- thorum sedoides. Dittany. See Cunila. Diurnal. Enduring only a day, as the flowers of Tigridia and Hemerocallis (Day Lily). Divaricate. Straggling; spreading abruptly; branching off at an acute angle, and spread- ing irregularly in various directions, as in Veronica pinnata. Diversiflorus. When a plant or inflorescence bears flowers of two or more sorts. Divided. Where incisions or indentations extend nearly to the base. Dock. See Rumex. Dodder. See Cuscuta. Dodeca'theon. American Cowslip. From dodeka, twelve, and theos, a divinity ; twelve gods or divinities of the Romans ; a name absurdly applied to a plant, native of a world the Romans did not know, and resembling in no particular any plant of their writers. Nat. Ord. Primulacece. This is a genus of native herbaceous peren- nials that deserve extensive cultivation. They are common in rich woods in Pennsylvania and westward to Wisconsin. In the west the common name is Shooting Star. They are exceedingly handsome in cultivation, thriving well in a shady border. The flower-stems are one foot or more high, bearing a considerable number of elegant drooping flowers of rosy purple, light purple, or white colors, and of an interesting shape, somewhat resembling the Cyclamen, to which plant it is allied. A very large and showy species, with deep purple and yellow flowers, has been introduced from Cali- fornia, named by Prof. E. L. Greene, of the State University, D. Clevelandi. They are propagated by seeds, or division of the roots. Dog-Grass. Triticum repens. Dog-Rose. Rosa canina. Dog-Thistle. Carduus arvensis. Dog-Violet. Viola canina, and V. sylvatica. Dog-Wood. Cornus sanguinea ; also applied to Euonymus Europceus, Rhamnus frangula, and Viburnum Opulus. Dog's Bane. The genus Apocynum. Climbing. Periploca grmca. Dog's Parsley. JEthusa Cynapium. Dog's-tail Grass. Cynosurus cristatus. Dog's-tooth Violet. Erythronium dena-canis, which see. Dolabriform. Ax-shaped. Do'lichos. From dolichos, long; referring to the long, twining shoots. Nat. Ord. Legumi- nosflB. Climbing annual and perennial plants from the East and West Indies, generally with purple or white flowers. The pods and seeds are eatable, and, in some cases, also the roots. D. Lablab, the Egyptian Bean, is a beautiful species with two varieties, one with dark purple flowers, the other white. They grow in any situation, where an ornamental climber is required, and may be treated as hardy annuals. This species was introduced from Egypt in 1818. DOR Dondia. A synonym of Hacquetia, which see. Doob, or Doorba. Indian names for Cynodon Dactylon, which see. Doo'dia. Named after Samuel Doody, a London apothecary and cryptogamic botanist. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. A genus of green-house evergreen Ferns, mostly natives of Australia and the Sandwich Islands. The species are small, stiff, and rough-leaved, of no great beauty, and are propagated by division when at rest. Doom Palm. A name given to Hyphcene the- baica. Doora, or Doura. See Sorghum vulgare. Dore'ma. From dorema, a gift or benefit. Nat. Ord. Umbelltferce. A hardy herbaceous plant, growing on the plains in the province of Irak, Persia, which furnishes the drug known as Ammoniacum. The plant abounds in a milky juice, which exudes upon the slightest puncture being made, and dries upon the stem in little rounded lumps, or tears, as they are called. Propa- gated by seeds. Doro'nicum. Leopard's Bane. Altered from Doronogi, its Arabic name. Nat. Ord. Com- posites. A genus of showy herbaceous perennials, natives of Europe and temperate Asia, with large, bright yellow flowers, which are pro- duced early in spring. They are of very easy culture being increased by division of the roots, and are showy plants for the herbaceous border. There are several species in cultiv- ation of which D. Altaicum, D. Pardalianches, D. Austriacum and D. Caucasicum are the best- known. Several seedling varieties have been lately introduced in England and are much admired. They are often forced for con- servatory decoration or for cutting. Dorsal. Attached to, or growing on the back of any organ. Dorste'nia. Named for Theodore Dorsten, a German botanist. Nat. Ord. Urticaceoe. Herbaceous plants of neat compact habit, natives of tropical America. Some of the species have elegantly cut leaves; while many of the others are decorated with silver markings. They are very curious plants, and are increased by division or by seeds. Dorya'nthes. From dory, a spear, and anthos, a flower; the flower-stem shoots up from twelve to twenty feet high, like the handle of a spear, bearing flowers on the top. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. D. excelsa, introduced in 1800, is a magnifi- cent Australian plant, and is what is termed an imperfect bulb. The flower stalk has been known to grow as high as thirty feet, crowned with a head of bright scarlet flowers, that emerge from crimson bracts. It does well in a green-house temperature. D. Palmeri, recently introduced from Queensland, is de- scribed as being a more beautiful plant than the preceding. The flowers form a pyramidal spike twelve to eighteen inches high, and ten to twelve inches broad, the flowers being red, with a center almost white. Propagated by suckers. Doryo'pteris. From dory, a spear, and pteris, a fern; spear-leaved Fern. Nat. Ord. Poly- podiacece. 132 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS DOT A genus of tropical herbaceous Ferns, allied to Pteris. Some of the species are now includ- ed under the latter genus. They are common in South America and the East and West Indies. Propagated by spores. Dotted. Furnished with transparent recep- tacles of oil, looking like dots ; marked with punctures. Double. When applied to the entire flower, it signifies that monstrous condition in which the parts of the inner floral whorls, the sta- mens or carpels, become converted into petals. Applied to the calyx or corolla separately, it refers to certain examples in which these organs appear to consist of more than the usual normal number of subordinate parts, and thus seem as if they were double. Double flowers are most common in the natural order Composite. Dougla'sia. A very pretty genus of herba- ceous plants from the Rocky Mountains, and Artie North America, of the Nat. Ord. Primulacece. The plants are evergreen, and like many others from high latitudes, will not bear sud- den changes ; consequently they need protec- tion in winter. The flowers are small, of a beautiful purple, borne in small tufts. This genus was named by Dr. Lindley in compli- ment to David Douglas, whose zeal in collect- ing seeds and plants, and whose untimely end have richly earned for him a niche in the long gallery of departed martyrs to science. Mr. Douglas was borne in Scone, Scotland, in 1798, and killed in the Sandwich Islands, July 12th, 1834. Having been employed in the Glasgow Botanic Garden, his intelligence attracted the notice of Sir William Hooker, who procured for him an appointment as botanical collector to the Horticultural Society of London. In this capacity he traveled extensively in America. In 1824 he explored the Columbia Biver and California, and in 1827 traversed the continent from Fort Vancouver to Hud- son's Bay, where he met Sir John Franklin, and returned with him to England. He made a second visit to the Columbia in 1829, and after- wards went to the Sandwich Islands. His death was caused by falling into a pit made to entrap wild cattle, where he was killed and mutilated by an animal previously entrapped. Through his agency 217 new species of plants were introduced into England. He collected 800 specimens of the California Flora. A gigan- tic species of Pine which he discovered in Cal- ifornia is named after him, Abies or Pseudo- tsuga Douglasii. Doum Palm. See Hyphame. Dove Flower. See Peristeria elata. Waxen. Peristeria cerina. Down Thistle. Omopordon Acanthium. Down Tree. Ochroma Lagopus. Downi'ngia. Named in honor of A. J. Downing, the father of horticulture in the United States. Nat. Ord. Lobeliacece. A genus of hardy annuals from California and British Columbia, free flowering, and very pretty for the border. If the seeds be sown in February, and the plants treated the same as Verbenas, they will flower by the first of June and continue until killed by frost. The flowers are of lovely blue, not unlike the DBA Lobelias. Introduced by Mr. Douglas in 1827. These plants have erroneously been called Clintonia, which name properly belongs to a genus of Liliacece. Dra'ba. Whitlow-Grass. From drabe, acrid; referring to one of the universal characters of its natural order. Nat. Ord. Cruciferaz. A genus of hardy rock or alpine plants, con- sisting of annuals, biennials and herbaceous perennials. They are very low plants, admira- bly adapted for rock-work, as they are gen- erally found in a wild state in the fissures and crevices of rocks and mountains. They have white or yellow flowers, and should be grown with good drainage and a sunny exposure. Propagated by root division, or by seeds. First introduced in 1731. Dracae'na. From drakaina, a female dragon ; the thickened juice becomes a powder, like the dragon's-blood. Nat. Ord. Liliaceai. Dracaenas rank among the most beautiful and useful of the ornamental-foliaged and fine-leaved plants. In a large or small state they are alike elegant and attractive. They are deservedly popular for the green-house or the sub-tropical garden, and for lawn decora- tion, large plants of many of the species have no equal. The species include the celebrated Dragon-tree (D. Draco) at Orotavia, in the island of Teneriffe, that was first noticed by Humboldt, who estimated its age at 6,000 years. This tree was seventy feet in height and seventy-nine feet in circumference at the base. The interior of the trunk, which had been hollow for centuries, was used as a Roman Catholic chapel after the conquest of the island by the Spaniards. Unfortunately it was totally destroyed by a hurricane which occurred in 1867. D. terminalis (or more cor- rectly Cordyline), a native of both the East and West Indies, is the best known of the species, and is extensively grown for baskets, window gardens, or the conservatory, the vivid coloring of its leaves rendering it at all times attract- ive. From this species has originated the host of popular hot-house varieties, many of which are most desirable and interesting because of their varied and rich tints of color, and their gracefully recurved foliage. Nearly all the species are admirably adapted for decorative purposes. D. Goldieana is a mag- nificent stove-house species, introduced from tropical Africa in 1872. Its broad, deep green, spreading leaves are marbled and irregularly banded with silvery-gray in alternate straight or furcate bands, rendering it one of the most striking and ornamental of the genus. D. umbraculifera, introduced from the Mauritius in 1778, is a very peculiar and distinct species, with long, narrow, dark green leaves, very closely set, and horizontal, with the ends slightly recurved, giving it the appearance of a table top or umbrella. For the sub-tropical garden or for the lawn, D. indivisa and D. Australia, Syn. Cordyline, are the best, being of graceful habit, rapid growth, and not affected by sunshine, storm or drought. They are natives of New Zealand, and are readily increased from seed. The other species are propagated by placing the stems on the prop- agating bench in sand, with a bottom heat of 75°, and slightly covering them with sphag- num, which should be kept at all times moist ; in a short time an eye will break forth from DOLICHOK. DIGITALIS. DIOSCOREA (CHINESE YAM). DION.EA MUSCIPtlXA. DODECATHEON CLEVELAND I (GIANT AMERICAN COWSLIP). DIELXTRA 8FECTABEU8. 132 DRACAENA GOLDEANA. DIOSPYKUS (JAPANESE PEKSIMMON). AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 133 DRA nearly every joint. The most forward of these may be removed from the stem from time to time, which will soon strike root in sand with bottom heat. The old stem should not be removed until its reproductive powers are exhausted. The species are pretty generally distributed throughout all tropical and sub- tropical countries, and were first brought to notice about 1820. See Cordyline. Dracoce'phalum. Dragon's Head. From dra- kon, a dragon, and kephale, a head ; referring to the gaping flower. Nat. Ord. Labiatce. This genus consists of hardy annuals and perennials, several of which are well known as garden flowers, among which may be found D- Moldavicum, the Moldavian Balm, a hardy annual with blue flowers. Several hardy species, perennials, natives of Siberia, have beautiful large blue flowers. One very pretty species, D. parviflorum, is sparingly met in the Northern and Western States. All are propagated by seed or by root division. Introduced in 1731. Draco'ntium. A genus of Aroidece, natives of tropical America, comprising certain species more remarkable than beautiful or orna- mental ; useful only in large collections. Dracophy'llum. A genus of Epacridacece, con- sisting of about twenty-five species, natives of New Zealand and Australia. D. capitatum, with pure white flowers in terminal heads, and D. gracile, also white, but more slender in growth, are both very pretty plants when well grown. Dragon-Arum. Arum Dracunculus. Green. Ariscema Dracontium. Dragon's Blood. This resin, used in medicine, etc., is furnished by Calamus Draco, and is imported from Sumatra, southern Borneo, etc. The name Dragon's Blood is also given to resins yielded by Dracmna Draco in the Canary Islands, and by Dracaena cinnabarina in Socotra, and also by Pterocarpus Draco. Dragon's-Blood-Tree. Dracmna Draco. Dragons-head. The genus Dracocephalum. Dragon's-mouth. Antirrhinum majus. Dragon-tree. Canary Islands. Dracaena Draco. Draining. This is one of the most important operations in horticulture. No matter how fertile the normal condition of the soil; no matter how abundantly it is fertilized; no matter how carefully and thoroughly it is tilled, if water remains in it at the depth to which roots penetrate, all labor will be in vain ; for no satisfactory result can ever be attained until the water is drained off. The subject is one of such importance that we cannot give it full attention here, and to such as require to operate on a large scale, works specially devoted to the subject should be consulted, or a draining engineer employed. Soils having a gravelly or sandy sub-soil ten or twenty inches below the top soil do not usually need draining ; but in all soils underlaid by clay or hard pan, draining is indispensable, unless in cases where there is a slope of two to three feet in a hundred; and even in such cases draining is beneficial if the sub-soil is clay. In soils having a clay or hard-pan sub-soil, drains should be made three feet deep and not more than twenty feet apart. If stones are plenty, they may be profitably used to fill DRI up the drains, say to a depth of twelve or fif- teen inches, either placed so as to form a "rubble" drain, if the stones are round, or built with an orifice at the bottom, if the stones are flat. In either case, care must be used to cover the stones carefully up with inverted sods, or some material that will pre- vent the soil being washed through the stones and choking up the drain. Drain tiles, when they can be obtained at a reasonable price, are the best material for draining. The horseshoe pattern is generally used. If the drain has a hard bottom they can be placed directly on it when leveled to the proper grade ; but if the ground is soft and spongy, a board must be laid in the bot- tom, on which to place the tiles. It is often a very troublesome matter to get the few drain tiles necessary to drain a small garden, and in such cases an excellent and cheap substitute can be had by using one of boards. Take ordinary rough boards — Pine, Hemlock or Spruce — and cut them into widths of three or four inches, and nail them together so as to form a triangular pipe, taking care to ' ' break the joints " in putting the lengths together. Care must be taken that the boards are not nailed together too closely, else they might swell so as to prevent the water passing into the drain to be carried off. These drains are usually set with a flat side down, but they will keep clear better if put with a point down, though it is more trouble to lay them. Drains made in this way will last twenty years or more. Of course, in draining, the greater the fall that can be got the better, though, if the grading is carefully done by a competent engineer, a very slight fall will suffice. Some of the trunk or main sewers in our cities have only a grade of one foot in a thousand. Drainage in flower pots is essential for most plants whenever the pot is over five inches in diameter. Charcoal broken into pieces from one-half to one inch in diameter we prefer to every other kind of drainage, which should be in depth from one inch to three inches, ac- cording to the size of the pot to be drained, an extra quantity being necessary if the plant is being shifted into a pot too large ; then ample drainage is indispensable to admit of the quick escape of water. This drainage, so called, is not alone of use as a means for the rapid escape of water, but also for the admis- sion of air to the roots, which brings in another important matter in connection with the drainage in pots, the necessity to stand the pots on some rough material, such as gravel or cinders ; for if placed on sand, soil, or anything that will close up the orifice in the bottom of the pot, all the drainage placed in it will avail nothing. It is far better to use no drainage at all, and stand the pots on a rough surface, than to use the drainage and place the plants on some material that will close the outlet. Dri'mia. From drimys, acrid ; referring to the juice of the bulbs. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. A small genus of green-house bulbs from the Cape of Good Hope. The flowers are white, purple, red, green, and variegated, and resemble the Ixias, though not as showy. The juice of the bulb is very acrid, causing blisters when applied to the skin. Propa- gated by offsets. Introduced in 1800. 134 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS DEI Dri'mys. Fine half hardy evergreen trees with aromatic bark and showy flowers, belonging to the Nat. Old. Magnoliacece. D. Winteri, the species most generally culti- vated, has milk-white flowers one inch ca- more across, with a Jasmine-like perfume. Leaves oblong, obtuse and glaucous beneath. Propagated by cuttings. The fruit of D. Aromatica is sometimes used as pepper. Syns. Winteria and Tasmannia. Drooping Sorghum. Sorghum cernuvm. Drop-seed Grass. The common name of the genus Sporobolus, applied because the seeds are loose, and easily scattered. The several species are common in dry barrens. Dropwort. See Spiraaftlipendula. Dro'sera. Sun-dew. From droseros, dewy. Nat. Ord. DroseracecB. American, British, and Australian plants of insectivorous notoriety, with hairy leaves and curious flowers, which require to be grown in moss, mixed with leaf mould, kept moist, and during the heat of the day covered with a bell glass. The leaves are studded with reddish glandular inflexed hairs, dis- charging from their apices a drop of viscid, acrid fluid. The Italian liqueur called Ros- soglia is said to take its name from one of the species being used in its composition. This is one of the plants experimented with by Mr. Darwin, from which he was led to believe that some plants feed on insects. Drosera'ceae. A natural order of perennial and annual herbs, which are often covered with glandular hairs. They have alternate leaves with fringes at their base, and a fern-like growth. The plants inhabit marshes in Europe, India, China, the Cape of Good Hope, Madagascar, North and South America, and New Holland. They have acid and slightly acrid properties. The species of Drosera are remarkable for their glandular hairs, which are covered with drops of fluid in sunshine. DioncBa muscipula is a still more remarkable plant, commonly called Venus's Fly-trap. Some include Parnassia in this order. There are seven known genera and about 100 species. Drosera, Dioncea, and Drosophyllum, are examples of the order. Drosophy'llum. From drosos, dew, and phyllon, a leaf ; in allusion to the leaves being beset with stipulary glands, appearing like dew. Nat. Ord. DroseracecB. D. Lusitanicum (the only species), forming a dwarf, shrubby plant three to five inches in height, is one of the most singular plants of European flora. The nature of the glandular hairs is different from that of the Droseras, their rigid pedicels not being endowed with the motive power of the British and other species of the genus just mentioned. "A still more anomalous character is to be found in the way the leaves are developed in the bud, being circinate and revolute, not involute, as in our Droseras, in Ferns, Cycads and other plants, and of this mode of development Dro- sophyllum is, so far as I know, the only exam- ple in the Vegetable Kingdom." (J. D. Hooker in Botanical Magazine.) It is a native of Spain, Portugal and Africa, introduced in 1869, and is propagated by seeds. Drupa'ceae. Formerly regarded as a distinct natural order, but now as a section of Rosacea. DTJP Drupe. A kind of fruit consisting of a fleshy, suc- culent rind, and containing a hard stone in the center, like the Olives, Plums, Apricots, etc. Drya'ndra. Named after Jonas Dryander, a dis- tinguished Swedish botanist. A genus of Proteacece, allied to Banksia, containing in all about fifty species. Hand- some green-house plants, rarely seen in culti- vation, notwithstanding their great beauty. Dry'as. From Dryades, the goddesses of the woods, to whom the oak was sacred. The leaves of D. octopetala, a Scotch plant, on which the genus was founded by Linnaeus, resembles small oak leaves ; and he, in play- ful mood, made Dryas the badge of Virgil's Dryades, after the manner of the Scottish clans. Nat. Ord. Rosacea. A delicate genus of dwarf, moderately- spreading plants, with neat evergreen leaves and strawberry-like flowers. All have white flowers except D. Drummondii, which are of a sulphur yellow. They are all of easy culture, but require a moist, shaded situation. They are natives of Great Britain and the "United States, and are propagated by division and by seeds. Drymo'nia. From drymos, an oak wood ; their habitation. Nat. Ord. Gesneracece. A small genus of South American shrubs of climbing habit, found in moist or marshy sit- uations. Flowers large, not unlike the Oes- nera. A few species have been introduced into the green-house, and are quite orna- mental. They should be grown in baskets filled with turf and pieces of wood, in a moist, warm house, and are propagated by cuttings. Introduced in 1806. Dryna'ria. From drys, a tree ; dwelling among trees. Nat. Ord. PolypodiacexB. An extensive genus of green-house Ferns from India and the Pacific Islands, now included under Polypodium by some authors. Dryoba'lanops. Camphor Tree. From drys, a tree, balanos, an acorn, and ops, appearance ; in allusion to the species being a tree, bearing acorn-like fruits. Nat. Ord. Dipterocarpece. A large, resinous, camphor-bearing ever- green tree, native of Sumatra. D. aromatica furnishes a liquid called Camphor-oil and a crystalline solid known as Sumatra camphor. It is highly prized by the Chinese. Dry'pis. From drypto, to lacerate; leaves armed with spines. Nat. Ord. Caryophyllacece. D. spinosa is a beautiful little trailing plant well adapted for growing upon rock-work ; its pretty pale pink or white flowers being pro- duced so as to completely cover the ground. It is increased by cuttings. This plant is a native of Italy, and was introduced in 1795. Duck's-foot. See Podophyllum. Duck-weed. The genus Lemna. Tropical. Pistia Stratioides. Ducts. Tubular vessels marked by transverse lines or dots; apparently, in some cases, modifications of spiral vessels. Dumb Cane. Dieffenbachia Seguine. Duplicate. Growing in pairs. When com- pounded with the words crenate, dentate, serrate, it implies that the incisions on the margins of leaves bearing these names are themselves crenated, dentated, and serrated. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 135 DUR Duramen. The heart-wood, or that part of the timber of a tree which becomes hardened by the matter deposited in it. It is next the center in Exogens and next the circumference in Endogens. Dura'nta. Named in honor of Castor Durantes, a physician and botanist. Nat. Ord. Verbenacece. A genus of free flowering evergreen shrubs, natives of South America and the West Indies. D. Plumieri, the best known species, has pretty blue flowers borne in racemes in great profusion. It was introduced in 1739, and is increased readily by cuttings. Du'rio. From Duryon, the Malay name of the fruit, and comes from dury, a thorn ; alluding to the prickly fruit. Nat. Ord. Sterculiacece. D. zibethinus, the only species, a noble tree attaining the height of from sixty to eighty feet, with somewhat the general appearance of an elm, produces the celebrated Durian fruit of the Indian Archipelago. This fruit varies in shape, being either globular or oval, and measures as much as ten inches in length ; it has a thick, hard rind entirely cov- ered with very strong sharp prickles, and is divided into five cells, each of which contains from one to four seeds rather larger than pigeons' eggs, and completely enveloped in a firm luscious-looking cream-colored pulp, which is the eatable part of the fruit. This tree is commonly cultivated through- out the Malayan Peninsula and Islands, where its fruit, during the period it is in season, forms the greatest part of the food of the natives. Considerable difference of opin- ion exists among epicures as to the relative merits of several well-known tropical fruits, including the Durian, the Mangosteen, the Cherimoyer, and the Pine-apple, any of which is made to occupy the foremost place, accord- ing to individual taste. The flavor of Durian, however, is said to be perfectly unique ; and it is also quite certain that no other fruit, either of tropical or temperate climes, com- bines in itself such a delicious flavor with such an abominably offensive odor — an odor commonly compared either with putrid animal matter, or with rotten onions. It might be supposed that a fruit possessing such an odor could never become a favorite ; but it is said that when once the repugnance has been overcome, the Durian is sure to find favor, and that foreigners invariably become extremely fond of it. One traveler observes that ' ' a rich custard, highly flavored with almonds, gives the best general idea of it, but there are occasional wafts of flavor that call to mind cream-cheese, onion sauce, sherry wine, and other incongruous dishes. Then there is a rich glutinous smoothness in the pulp which nothing else possesses, but which adds to its delicacy. It is neither acid, nor sweet, nor juicy; yet it wants none of these qualities, for it is in itself perfect. It pro- duces no nausea or other bad effect, and the more you eat of it the less you feel inclined to stop. In fact, to eat Durians is a new sensation, worth a voyage to the East to ex- perience." Durra. See Sorghum vulgare. Dusty Miller. Cineraria maritima. Dutch-Clover. Trifolium repens. Dutchman's Breeches. Dicentra cucullaria. DYS Dutchman's Pipe. See Aristolochia sipho. Duva'lia. Named after H. A. Duval, of Paris, a botanical author. Nat. Ord. Asclepediaceoe. A genus of succulent Stapelia-like plants, all natives of South Africa. D. polita has purplish red flowers with a dull orange center, somewhat resembling a bird's head, when viewed sideways. They are produced in threes or fours and open successively. The stems and branches are two to three inches long, and about half an inch thick, somewhat clavate, and more or less decumbent and rooting. It is one of the finest plants of the genus, and was introduced in 1874. Duva'ua. In honor of M. Duvau, a French bot- anist. Nat. Ord. Anacardiacem. Singular half-hardy shrubs from Chili. The leaves of the plants of this genus, if thrown upon water, will start and jump about in a very extraordinary manner. They have a strong smell of turpentine. The flowers are white, produced in small spikes, and are suc- ceeded by dark purple berries. They require green-house treatment. Propagated by cut- tings. Introduced in 1830. Dwarf. Of small size compared with other species of the same genus, or with other varieties of the same species. Dwarf Dandelion. Krigia Virginica, a small hardy annual, with yellow flowers resembling a small Dandelion, common in New England and southward. Dwarf Pan Palm. A common name for Cha- mozrops humilis. Dy'ckia. Named in honor of Prince Salm-Dyck, a German, author of a splendid work on suc- culents. Nat. Ord. Bromeli&ceaz. A small genus of green-house plants, resem- bling the Pine-apple in miniature, or a small Pitcairnia. D. rariflora is a very showy plant with orange-colored flowers. One or two other species of the same general character have been introduced into the green-house. Propagated by division or from seeds. Dyer's Green- Weed. See Genista tinctoria. Dyer's Rocket, or Dyer's Weed. A popular name of Reseda luteola, allied to Mignonette. Dynamis. A power. A figurative term em- ployed by Linnaeus to express the degrees of development of stamens. Thus his Didynamia signified stamens of two different lengths, or of two different degrees of development. Dypsis. From dupto, to dip; application not given. Nat. Ord. Palmaceaz. A genus of five or six species of dwarf stove- house palms, all natives of Madagascar. D. Madagascariensis, D. Hildebrandtii, and D. pinnatifrons, the only species yet introduced, are choice sorts, and well worthy of a place in any collection. Dysodia. From dusodes, ill-smelling ; in allu- sion to the unpleasant odor of some of the species. Nat. Ord. Composite. A genus of about ten species of erect or dif- fuse pubescent plants, closely allied to Ta- getes, and natives of Mexico, Central America, and the South-western States. D. chrysan- themoides, a dwarf annual with pinnatisect leaves, grows in great profusion over the western prairies of Illinois, and in autumn exhales so unpleasant an odor as to sicken travelers. 136 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS E. E EAG agle "Wood. An odoriferous wood containing an abundance of resin and a fragrant essen- tial oil. This is supposed to be the Aloes wood of Scripture. See Aquilaria agallocha. Ea'rina. From earinos, the spring; the time of their flowering. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A genus of very rare Orchids. The stems are terminated by dense oblong spikes of white flowers, which are delightfully fragrant. They were introduced from New Zealand in 1843. East Indian Rose Bay. See Tabemeemontana. Earth-nut, or Earth Chestnut. Buniwm flex- uoawm. Easter Flower. Mexican. Poinsettia pulcher- rima. Easter Giant. Polygonum bistortum. Easter Lily. Lilium Harrisii and L. longiflorum. Ebena'ceae. A natural order of trees or shrubs, not milky, with alternate leathery and entire leaves. The flowers are hermaphrodite (per- fect), or pistillate and staminate. The fruit is a round or oval berry with albuminous seeds. T,hey are chiefly natives of the East Indies, but are also found in tropical Africa, at the Cape of Good Hope, in South America, Brazil, Australia, northern Asia, and China. The trees yield a hard and durable timber. The heart-wood of different species of Diospy- ros is the Ebony of commerce, of which there are many varieties. The Keg-fig of Japan is edible fruit of Diospyros Kaki, and our com- mon Persimmon is the fruit of Diospyros Vir- giniana. There are five recognized genera and about 250 species ; Diospyros, Royena, Euclea, and Maba are examples. E'benus. A genus of Leguminosce, numbering about eight species, natives of the high moun- tainous regions of eastern Europe and Asia Minor. They are elegant little shrubs, or biennial plants, bearing their bright pink or violet blossoms on dense spikes or round heads in great profusion. They are easily increased by seeds or division. Ebony-tree. See Diospyros. Jamaica. Brya Ebenus. Mountain. Bauhinia variegata. Senegal. Dalbergia Melanoxylon. Eburneus. Of the color of ivory. Ecba'llium. Squirting Cucumber. From ekbalo, to cast out ; because the seeds are violently expelled from the ripe fruit. Nat. Ord. Cucur- bitacece. The Squirting Cucumber is so called from the remarkable way in which it squirts out its seeds along with the semi-fluid contents of the fruit. When the fruit is quite ripe a very slight touch causes it to separate from its stem, and by the violent elastic contraction of the pericarp, or rind of the fruit, the whole of the contents are ejected from the opening made by its separation from the stem. It is a native of the south of Europe, where the drug known as Elaterium (a powerful cathartic) is procured from it. Syn. Momordica Elaterium. ECH Eccremoca'rpus. From ekkremes, pendant, and karpos, fruit ; position of seed-pods. Nat. Ord. BignoniacecB. The best known species, E. scaber, is a half- hardy climber, of exceedingly vigorous growth, producing a great profusion of orange-scarlet flowers, and ripening an abundance of seed. If cut down to the root in autumn, and covered with dead leaves, straw, or anything to preserve it from the frost during winter, it will shoot up again the following spring. It may be propagated by cuttings, but it ripens seed so freely that it is most easily raised from them. They should be sown in autumn, as soon as they are ripe, on a slight hot-bed ; and the plants, which should be kept in a frame or green-house, should be shifted two or three times till they are ready for planting out in April or May. The species are natives of Peru. Introduced in 1824. Syn. Calampelis. Echea'ndia. Named after Greg. Echeandia, botanical professor at Saragossa. Nat. Ord. LiliacecB.. A small genus of exceedingly rare, tender herbaceous perennials, discovered near the Real del Monte Mines, Mexico, by Mr. John Rule, and sent by him to England in 1837. It is allied to the Anthericum, which in habit of growth it resembles. The flower spike grows nearly three feet high, branching, and during July and August it produces daily several Asphodel-shaped flowers, of a bright orange- yellow color. It is increased from seeds. Echeve'ria. In honor of M. Echeveri, author of the splendid drawings of the Flora Mexicani. Nat. Ord. Crassulacem. The Echeverias are succulent plants, all more or less ornamental, particularly so when in flower. Some are dwarf and herb-like in their manner of growth, and others more or less shrubby in their habit. They are all free-growing plants, suitable for rockeries, edgings, or massing ; where " carpet bedding" is done the Echeverias are indispensable. They require the protection of the green- house during winter, and, like most other succulents, to be carefully watered ; in fact, the soil must never approach a soddened con- dition. They must, however, be freely sup- plied with water while in a growing condition. The Echeverias are readily propagated by the leaves, especially those produced along the flower-stem, and by seeds. They are chiefly natives of Mexico, and require a very open or porous soil, consisting of loam and coarse sand. Some of the more popular kinds are of recent introduction. A number of the species are now classed with Cotyledon. Echina'cea. Purple Cone-Flower. From echinos, a hedge-hog; referring to the involucre, or scaly covering of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Com- posite,. A small genus of coarse-growing, hardy her- baceous perennials, bearing large purple or reddish flowers, with a dark centre. They are common south and west. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 137 ECH Echinate. Furnished with numerous rigid hairs or straight prickles ; as the fruit of Castanea vesca, Amomum subulatum, etc. Echi'noca'ctus. From echinos, hedge-hog, and cactus ; a name given by Theophrastus to a spiny plant. Nat. Ord. Cactacece. This genus is one of the most beautiful of the order; the grotesque appearance of the plants, crowned as they are at times with their large flowers, renders them objects of much attention among the admirers of this class of vegetable forms. The soil we prefer for their culture is a mixture of rich loam, thoroughly decomposed manure, and sand, in equal quantities. This must be well drained by mixing small lumps of charcoal and pots- herds with the earth, and by placing a layer of the same material at the bottom of the pots. Through the winter the plants should be kept in a reduced temperature, such as that of a green-house, and have little or no water, but in summer they grow and flower more freely if allowed a stove temperature and a liberal supply of moisture. Bright sun- light is essential to their vigor at all seasons, but most particularly so in autumn and winter. The genus comprises many species; more than half of them natives of Mexico, the rest being distributed throughout South America. They are propagated by offsets, which should be dried a few days after being taken off the plant. First introduced in 1796. E'chinops. Globe Thistle. From echinos, a hedge-hog, and opis, like ; referring to the spiny scales of the involucre, or covering of composite flowers. Nat. Ord. Composites. A genus of hardy annual, biennial, and per- ennial plants, generally with blue flowers, ar- ranged in dense round clusters at the ends of the branches, so that each cluster of flower- heads has the appearance of a single head, containing many florets. They are all of easy culture, and will grow in almost any situation. For moderate-sized gardens, they are too rank growing and coarse to be useful. They are natives of southern Europe, and are propagated by seeds or division. Echino'psis. A small genus of Cactacece, now generally placed as a section of Cereus. Echi'tes. From echis, a viper ; referring to the snake-like coils of the twining shoots. Nat. Ord. ApocynacecB. A genus of magnificent green-house climb- ing plants, with yellow, white, red, and crim- son flowers, and richly-veined leaves. They closely resemble Dipladenia, which may be re- ferred to for culture. It is an extensive genus, pretty generally distributed throughout South America and the East Indies. E'chium. Viper's Bugloss. From echis, a viper ; seeds like the viper's head. Nat. Ord. Bora- ginacece. Perennial, biennial, and annual plants gener- ally with rich dark-blue flowers; though some of the kinds that are natives of the Cape of Good Hope and the Canaries have red, white, or violet flowers. They are easily prop- agated by seeds or division of the root. First introduced in 1683. Edelweiss. See Leontopodium. Edged. When one color is surrounded by a very narrow rim of another color. EGY Edgeworthia. Named for M. P. Edgeworth, an East Indian botanist. Nat. Ord. Thyme- lacecB. Ornamental evergreen green-house shrubs with yellow flowers, closely allied to Daphne. Natives of China and Japan. Edwa'rdsia. In honor of Sydenham Edwards, a celebrated English botanical draughtsman. Nat. Ord. Leguminosw. Half-hardy low trees and shrubs, with pin- nate leaves and very curiously-shaped seed pods and flowers, which are of a dark golden yellow. They are beautiful plants for lawn decoration, but must be protected in winter. The species are all natives of New Zealand, and are propagated by cuttings. Introduced in 1772. Syn. Sophora. Eel-Grass. See Vallisneria. Effuse. Applied to inflorescence, and means a kind of panicle with a very loose arrange- ment. Egg-Plant. The Egg-Plant of our gardens is Solanum melongena, var. ovigerum, a native of North Africa. It was first introduced into England in 1596, but for a long time was little known or used, owing much to the climate being unsuited to the perfect development of the fruit. In India and other hot countries it is a favorite article of food, and for many years it has steadily grown in favor in this country. In India it is served up with sugar and wine,' and in Italy and France it is used in stews and soups. Of this species there are several varieties, the favorite being the " Im- proved New York Purple," which is a strong grower, the plants yielding from five to eight fruits, some of which are of enormous size ; the size, however, depends much on the soil and method of culture. For perfection of growth, a very rich soil, plenty of moisture, and warm weather are required, with the ad- dition of frequent hoeings. Under such cir- cumstances, fruit seven inches in diameter and eight to nine inches long, and weighing five to six pounds, is easily obtained. There are several other species occasionally grown in our gardens, one having bright scarlet, another white fruit, each about the size of a hen's egg, which are chiefly grown as curiosities. The white variety is edible, however, and is per- haps the most delicately flavored. Seeds should be sown about March 1st, in a tem- perature at no time lower than 70° Fahr., and from the seed bed pricked out in shallow boxes, and from these, again, into small flower pots, to be planted out in the open ground when all danger from frost is past, as the plant, being tropical, is at all times sensitive to cold. Eggs and Bacon. Linaria vulgaris, and Lotus corniculatus. Eggs and Butter. Linaria vulgaris. Eglantine. Sweet Briar. Rosa rubiginosa. Egyptian Bean. See Dolichos Lablab. Of Pythagoras. Nelumbium speciosum. Egyptian Lily. See Richardia. Egyptian Lotus. Nymphcea Lotus. Egyptian Pea. See Cicer. Egyptian Rose. Scabiosa arvensis, and S. atropurpurea. Egyptian Thorn. Crataegus Pyracantha. 138 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS EHB, Ehre'tia. In honor of D. G. Ehret, a celebrated German botanical draughtsman. Nat. Ord. Boraginacece. A small genus of very beautiful tropical trees and shrubs, producing large corymbs of fragrant, mostly white flowers. Introduced in 1823 ; propagated by cuttings. Ehre'tia'ceee. A natural order, now placed as a tribe of Boraginacece. Eichho'rnia. Named in honor of J. A. F. Eich- horn, an eminent Prussian. Nat. Ord. Ponte- deriacecB. Very interesting stove aquatics, natives of South America and tropical Africa. E. cras- sipes, Syn. Pondeteria azwrea, or P. crassipes, grows freely, floating on the surface of the water, without the roots being in the soil ; the other species are easily grown in pots filled with coarse, rather rich soil, immersed and kept in water. Elaeagna'ceae. A natural order of trees or shrubs, more or less covered with minute silvery or brown scurfy scales, and natives chiefly of the northern hemisphere. There are four known genera and about thirty spe- cies. She.pherdia, Elmagnus, and Hippophae are examples of the order. Elaea'gnus. Oleaster, or Wild Olive. From Elaia, an olive, and agnos, a chaste tree ; resemblance the tree bears. Nat. Ord. Elce- agnacem. A genus of hardy and half-hardy ornamental low-growing trees or shrubs, natives of southern Europe and Asia. E. hortensis, is an old garden shrub, noted for the silvery white- ness of its foliage, and, on this account, is often selected to plant in a conspicuous situa- tion, or to contrast with shrubs of darker foliage. Its flowers are produced in May, are quite small, pale yellow, and fragrant. E. argentea is described by Gray, under the name of Shepherdia argentea, which see. Else'is. The Oil Palm. From Elaia, the olive ; similarity of expressing oil from the fruit. Nat. Ord. Palmaceai. This interesting genus of Palms consists of but few species, the minor ones being na- tives of South America. E. Guineensis, the most important species, abounds on the west coast of Africa. It grows to the greatest perfection in shady places, where the trees attain a height of twenty feet. The immense groves interspersed with the larger vegeta- tion of that country, gives the landscape an indescribable beauty. The fruits in this species are borne in immense dense heads, measuring from one to two feet long, and from two to three feet in circumference, the individual fruit, or nut, being about an inch and a half long by an inch in diameter. These fruits yield the Palm Oil of commerce, the collecting of which is the principal industry of the negroes in many parts of Africa, but more particularly on the west coast. The oil is obtained by bruising the fruit, boiling in water, and skimming it off as it rises to the surface. The Palm Oil of commerce is about the consistence of butter, of a deep orange yellow, becoming lighter upon being exposed to the air, and when fresh it emits a sweet violet odor. In Africa this oil is used as butter under the name of ghea. A soup is also made of it, that forms an important ELI article of food. The vast productiveness of the plant is evident from the fact, that the importations into Great Britain alone, in I860, amounted to more than eight millions of dol- lars. The chief uses to which this oil is ap- plied is in the manufacture of candles, Palm Oil soap, and for lubricating oil for machin- ery. Elaeoca'rpus. From Elaia, the olive, and kar- pvs, fruit; resemblance of the fruits. Nat. Ord. Tiliacew. A genus of handsome trees belonging to the Linden family. They are natives of South America, Australia, and the East Indies. The flowers are white or green, quite showy. The rough bony fruit, or stone, has a sculp- tured appearance, and is used for necklaces and other articles of ornament. The fruit is surrounded by an edible pulp, and is pickled like olives. The bark of some of the species affords an excellent dye, varying from light brown to deep black ; it is highly valued for its permanency. Elaeode'ndron. Olive Wood. From Elaia, an olive, and dendron, a tree ; alluding to the re- semblance. Nat. Ord. Celaslracece. A genus of medium-sized evergreen trees, common in Africa, India, the south of Europe, and is also abundant in the Holy Land. The trees grow from thirty to forty feet high, much branched, with rough, scraggy trunks, and furnish the Olive Wood, used so much in turning and various small works, such as boxes, charms, trinkets, and small cabi- net work. The fruit is much esteemed and yields an oil something like that of the true Olive, Olea Europ&a, though of an inferior quality. Elder. American. Sambucus Canadensis, and the genus Iva. British. Sambucus nigra. Marsh, or Water. Viburnum Opulus. Poison. Rhus venenatum. Wild, of North America. Aralia hispida. Elecampane. See Inula Helenium. Elephant's Apple. Feronia Elephantum. Elephant's Ear. The genus Begonia, and Colo- casia esculenta. Elephant's Foot. See Testudinaria Elephan- tipes. Elephant' s-trunk Plant. Martynia proboscidea, and Adenium namaquanum. Eletta'ria. A synonym of Amomum, which see. Eleusi'ne. Derived from Eleusis, where was a celebrated temple of Ceres. Nat. Ord. Graminacem. A family of curious grasses, mostly inhabi- tants of the East Indies. E. oligostachya, one of the most ornamental species, is a dwarf grass, well adapted for the flower border, or to be used as a "dried grass" for winter- bouquets; it is native of China, perfectly hardy, and of perennial duration. E. coracana, is grown in Japan as a grain crop for its large farinaceous seeds. Elichry'sum. See Helichrysum. Elise'na. Named in honor of Princess Elise, sister of Napoleon. Nat. Ord. AmarylUdacew. A small genus of strong-growing bulbs from Peru. The flowers are borne in a cluster on a AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 139 ELK scape nearly three feet high, pure white and fragrant, closely resembling Ismene. They require greenhouse treatment. To bring them into flower, water should be withheld after their season's growth, until the flower spike appears, when they should have the warmest position in the green-house, with plenty of air and water. Propagated by off- sets. Introduced in 1837. Elk-Bark. Magnolia glauca. Elk's-horn Fern. Platycerium alcicorne. Elloboca'rpus oleraceus. Pod Fern. A syn- onym of Ceratopteris thalictroides, which see. Elm. American, or White. Ulmus Americana. American Cork, or Rock. Ulmus racemosa. Moose, Red, or Slippery. Ulmus fulvs*,. Witch, or Wych. Ulmus Montana. Elo'dea. Water Thyme. From elodes, a marsh ; the habitation of the plants. Nat. Ord. Hydrocharidacece. A small genus of aquatic or marshy plants, natives of this country and western Asia. E. Virginica is rather a handsome plant, with flesh or pink-colored flowers, disposed in axil- lary or terminal clusters. Elongated. Lengthened or stretched out ; when any part of an organ is in any way remarkable for its length in comparison with its breadth. E'lymus. Lyme-Grass. Wild Rye. According to Linnaeus it is named from elyo, to cover. Nat. Ord. Graminaceai. A genus of strong-growing grasses, inhabi- tants of both the new and the old worlds. Some of the species are grown for economic purposes, others for their ornamental charac- ter. E. arenarius affords the nearest approach to a grain crop attainable by the Icelanders, and this only can be cultivated in very favor- able localities. They highly appreciate the seeds, call them Melur, and eat them raw or made into cakes. It is also useful for binding moveable sand hills, etc., by means of its long creeping rhizomes. E. histrix, is a native species, and is grown for ornamental pur- poses. It is popularly known as Bottle-brush Grass, and is referred by Gray to the genus Gymnostichum. Emarginate. Having a small notch in the end, as if a piece had been taken out. Embossed Cypress. See Glyptostrobus. Embryo. The rudiment of a plant contained in the seed. It makes its first appearance soon after the pollen has fertilized the ovule. Fixed embryo, a leaf bud. Empetra'ceas. A natural order of shrubs with heath-like, evergreen leaves, without stipules, . and small axillary flowers, which are usually imperfect. They are natives chiefly of the northern parts of Europe and America. There are four known genera and five species. Empetrum, Ceratiola and Corema are examples of the order. Empe'trum. Crake-berry, or Crow-berry. From en, upon, and petros, a rock ; in allusion to the place of growth. Nat. Ord. Empetracece. E. nigrum, a native hardy species, is an ornamental evergreen, low-spreading, heath- . like shrub, bearing edible brownish-black ber- ries ; well adapted for a damp situation on a rockery. ENG Encephala'rtos. From en, within, hephale, the head, and artos, bread ; the inner part of the top of the trunk being farinaceous. Nat. Ord. Cycadacew. This is a small genus separated from Zamia. They are in all respects very similar plants, require the same treatment, and are natives principally of the Cape of Good Hope. Several of the species are valuable decorative plants. Enchanter's Nightshade. See Circosa. Encholi'rion. A genus of Bromeliaceoe, consist- ing of a few Brazilian herbaceous plants, usually referred to Vriesia, which see. Endive. Cichorium Endivia. This hardy annual is a native of the East Indies, and is consid- ered a valuable salad at a time when few other vegetables are furnished for the table. Like the lettuce, its leaves are used before its flow- ering stem begins to appear. These leaves are very hard and bitter when exposed to the air ; they are therefore blanched, and if this be properly performed they become crisp and tender, and retain only an agreeable bitter- ness. Many varieties of the Endive are included in seedsmen's lists, all of which are the results of selection and cultivation. Endive. Wild. See Cichorium. Endocarp. The lining of a carpel; the inner surface or lining of a fruit, representing at that time the upper surface of a carpellary leaf. The stone of a Cherry is its endocarp. Endogens. A large class of plants to which the name of Monocotyledons is also given. "They have a cellular and vascular system, the latter exhibiting spiral vessels. Their stem is endo- genous, that is to say, increases in diameter by the addition of woody vessels towards its interior, the outer part being the oldest and densest, and hence the name Endogens, inward-growers ; bundles of woody, spiral, and pitted vessels are scattered throughout the cellular tissue; there is no pith, no separ- able bark, no woody rings or zones, and no true medullary rays. The age of woody Endo- gens cannot be determined by counting con- centric rings, as in Exogens. The leaves are usually continuous with the stem, and do not fall off by articulations ; and when at length they separate, their bases leave marks or scars at definite intervals on the stem, as may be seen in Palms. The stems of Endogens are often subterranean, in the form of corms, rhizomes, or bulbs. The leaves have stom- ates, and their venation is usually parallel, though in a few cases it is slightly reticulated. The flowers have stamens and pistils, and three-membered symmetry. The ovules are contained in an ovary, and the embryo has one cotyledon, or seed lobe, whence they are called monocotyledonous. Endosmose. That force which causes a viscid fluid lying within a cavity to attract to itself a watery fluid through an organic membrane. Engelma'nnia. Named in honor of George Engel- mann, of St. Louis, a celebrated botanist. Nat. Ord. Composite. E. pinnatifida, the only species, is an erect, hardy perennial herb, with golden-yellow flowers one to two inches in diameter. It grows one to two feet in height, and thrives in ordinary garden soil. It was introduced to cultivation from the western prairies in 1881. 140 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS ENG English Mercury. Chenepodium Bonus Hen- ricus. Enkia'nthus. From enkous, enlarged, and anthos, a flower ; the flowers are swollen in the middle. Nat. Ord. Ericacem. Highly beautiful objects, which, from their habit of blooming in the winter and early spring, are much esteemed for ornamenting the green-house and conservatory. They should have a shaded situation out of doors through the summer. Propagated by cut- tings, which require to be of firm, young wood. There are five species, natives princi- pally of Japan, China, and the East. First introduced from China in 1812. Ensiform. Quite straight, with the point acute, like the blade of a broadsword or the leaf of an Iris. Enta'da. The Malabar name. Nat. Ord. Legu- minosaB. A genus of ornamental hot-house climbers, consisting of five species, with white or yel- low flowers, produced either in spikes at the bases of the leaves, or in bunches at the ends of the branches. The most remarkable feature of the genus is the extraordinary length of its pods, which are flat and woody, divided into numerous joints, each containing one large, flat, polished seed. In E. scandens, a native of the tropics of both hemispheres, the pods often measure six or eight feet in length. The seeds are nearly two inches across by half an inch thick, and have a hard, woody, and beautifully-polished shell, of a dark-brown or purplish color. In the tropics the natives convert these seeds into snuff-boxes, scent- bottles, and various other trinkets. In this country they are much worn as charms on watch-guards, and are very common in their natural state on the side-walk stands in Broadway, New York. They are natives of the West and East Indies and the South Sea Islands. The seeds are often picked up on the coast of Florida, and even as far as the coast of Finland, having been conveyed there by the great oceanic currents. They are sold under the name of Sea Beans and Florida Beans. Eome'con. A genus of Papaveracece, containing only one species, described as intermediate between Stylophorum and Sanguinaria, from both of which, however, it differs widely in its scapose habit and racemose flowers. Unlike the Poppies, also, the Eomecon holds its indi- vidual flowers for many days together, and produces them in such abundance from May to September as to merit a first place in all good collections. It is quite a novelty, and with its yellow-green cyclamen-like leaves and showy flowers forms quite a picturesque group in the herbaceous border. It was dis- covered at Kwangsi, China, in 1884, by Dr. Henry, and is readily increased by means of its numerous runners. Eope'pon. A genus of ornamental gourds, con- sisting of two species, formerly, and still, generally included in the genus Trichosanthes, which see. Epacrida'cese. A natural order of shrubby plants, with usually simple alternate leaves, and regulai and perfect flowers in spikes or racemes. Natives of the Indian Archipelago and Australia. There are thirty-two known EPH genera and over 300 species. Epacris, Sty- phelia, and Dracophyllum are examples of the order. Epa'cris. From epi, upon, and akroa, the top ; The Epacris grows upon the tops of hills and on rising grounds. Nat. Ord. Epacridaceoe. An extensive genus of ornamental shrubs from Australia, the species of which are highly valued, both for their graceful beauty and the early period at which they produce their abundant flowers. For a proper method of treatment, we quote from the Florist's Jour- nal : " The method we are about to recom- mend for the management of these lovely plants will be found to differ considerably from the ordinary course of treatment, but as we have found it so decidedly preferable, there can be no hesitation in advising its adoption. To begin, we select young, healthy plants, and in February remove them from the small pots in which they have been grown into others three or four sizes larger, according to the apparent strength of the individual, using a very sandy soil ; the rougher and more turfy the soil is the better the plants will thrive. Particular attention should be paid to drain- age. The plants are then cut back to within four or five joints of their last growth and are placed in a gentle heat, where they soon ' break ' vigorously. These new growths are stopped by pinching off their tops two or three times in the course of the summer, taking care, however, to discontinue it after July, so that the last shoots may have time to ripen before the winter, and, by giving proper atten- tion to watering, they will attain a length of a foot or more, and make nice little specimens to bloom in the following spring. After they have then done flowering, they are again repotted, and, instead of being stopped in their after-growth, are at once cut back to very near the base of the preceding year's shoots, and are then allowed to grow as far as they please, training them into any desir- able form. Thus, instead of a few flowers on several small stems, we have long spikes full of flowers, increasing the general beauty of the plants to an amazing extent. Every year they are cut down in the same manner, and each season more numerous spikes are pro- duced. We must observe, however, that after the first season the plants are not subjected to a high temperature, choosing in preference a shaded, airy place for them to make their new wood through the summer, removing them about August to a sunny position, in order to ripen the recent shoots; in other respects ordinary attention is all that is required." Hardly as good results can be obtained in this country, as they suffer, like the Heath, from our long, dry, hot summers. Propagated by cut- tings of the tips of the shoots when from one to two inches in length, in spring or early summer. E. grandiflora, one of the finest species, was introduced in 1803. Ephe'dra. The Greek for the Hippuris, or Horse-tail, which it resembles. Nat. Ord. Gnetacem. This genus consists of evergreen trailing shrubs with numerous slender-jointed, green branches, and small, scale-like leaves. These shrubs inhabit the rocky shores of the Medi- terranean and salt plains of Asia. Some of the species are very ornamental, but are not suf- ENDIVE (WHITE CURLED). 140 EGfi PLANT (N. Y. IMPROVED). EPIPHYLLUM TRONCATUM. ERYSIMUM ESCHSCHOLTZIA CALIFORNICA. s 18 tt ■M m mm ;5ftv ERANTHIS (WINTER ACONITE.) ERIANTHrH. ERYTHRINA (CORAL PLANT ) 14* AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 141 EPH ficiently hardy to stand the winters, unpro- tected, north of the Carolinas. One of the species, E. antisyphilitica, is said to contain large quantities of tannin. Ephemeral. Existing for, or less than, one day; as where a corolla expands for a few hours at most, and then fades. Epide'ndrum. From epi, upon, and dendron, a tree ; the plants are usually found growing on the branches of trees. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. This is an extensive and, for the most part, beautiful genus of epiphytal Orchids. All of them may be grown on billets of wood or on cork, or, where it is preferred, for the stronger growing species, pots may be used, and in the latter case it is indispensable that the soil be porous and well drained. It should consist of equal parts of sphagnum moss and fibrous peat, filling the pots for two- thirds their depths with broken potsherds, and when the plants are placed in them, the base of their pseudo-bulbs must be kept con- siderably above the rim, so that water may not lodge between them. The same rela- tive variations of temperature should be observed for these as mentioned for Dendro- bium, keeping it at an average of ten degrees lower than recommended for that genus ; and as the same principles govern the growth of each, the like changes of atmospheric influence are necessary in either case. The genus con- sists of over 300 species, distributed through- out the West Indies, Mexico, and South America. Propagated by division. The first species was introduced in 1738. Epidermis. The true skin of a plant, immediate- ly underlying the cuticle. Epigae'a. Trailing Arbutus. From epi, upon, and gaia, the earth ; referring to its trailing habit. Nat. Ord. Ericaceae. E. repens, the only species, is one of our most beautiful native early spring-flowering plants. It is a low-growing, evergreen shrub producing axillary clusters of small rose- colored flowers, remarkable for their rich spicy fragrance. They are usually found in the shade of Pines or Scrub Oaks. In warm, sheltered situations they show their flowers early in April. It is commonly known on Long Island, where it grows in great abun- ance, as Trailing Arbutus, in New England as May Flower, and in many localities as Ground Laurel. It can be easily grown in the shaded border by removing the plant from the woods in autumn, being careful not to disturb the roots. After planting in a sandy soil, protect from sun and winds by a slight covering of dry leaves. Clumps carefully taken up in autumn, and put in a cool green-house in February, will come into flower in March. Epigae'us. Growing on land, in contradistinc- tion to growing in the water. Also when any part of a terrestrial plant grows close to the earth. Epigynous. Upon the ovary ; a term applied when the outer whorls of the flower adhere to the ovary, so that their upper portions alone r?Vr^' and aPPear to be seated on it, as in Umbelhferaz, etc. Epilo'bium. Willow Herb. From epi, upon, and lobos, a pod ; flowers superior or seated on a seed-pod. Nat. Ord. Onagracece. EPI A genus of tall-growing, hardy herbaceous plants, chiefly natives of Europe, some of which have become naturalized in this coun- try. Several of our native species are showy plants, with large spikes of pink flowers, that make them conspicuous border plants. They are all of easy culture, taking care of them- selves when once planted, and are increased by division in spring, or from seeds. Epime'dium. Barrenwort. From epi, upon, akin to, and Median, a plant, said to be grown in Media ; a name from Dioscorides. Nat. Ord. Berber -idacece. Ornamental hardy herbaceous perennials, with stalked compound leaves, and flowers of various colors. They form admirable, plants for rockwork and grow best in a compost of loam, and leaf mould. Propagated by division. Natives of Japan, Persia, Algeria, etc. Epipa'ctis. Very pretty hardy orchids, natives of Europe, and Russian Asia. Stem one to two feet high, leafy, bearing a loose raceme of purple, brown, or white flowers. They are of easy culture in shady borders, and form excellent subjects for naturalizing in artificial bogs, or in moist, peaty spots. Epi'phora. A pretty little terrestrial Orchid, from South Africa, with yellow flowers streak- ed with red. E. pubescens, the only species, was taken from Polystachya. Epiphyllous. Either growing upon or inserted on a leaf. Epiphy'Uum. Crab's Claw Cactus, Lobster- leaved Cactus. From epi, upon, and phyllon, a leaf ; flowers borne on the ends of the leaf- like branches. Nat. Ord. Cactacece. A genus of very beautiful Cactaceous plants, natives of Brazil, where they are generally found upon the trunks of trees. The varieties are numerous and are largely cultivated for their showy flowers. E. truncatum and its var- ieties are the kinds usually cultivated in our green-houses, and are among the most highly colored and beautiful of our winter- flowering plants. They are of ten grafted on Cereus triangularis, C. grandifiorus, C. serpenti- na, and others, but do best, perhaps, on the Pereskia. A large symmetrical nead is easily formed, and with proper attention will make a plant worthy of a situation in any green- house. Their culture is of the easiest descrip- tion ; delighting in a rich, well-drained, sandy soil, they should have plenty of air, water and sunlight while they are growing and watered sparingly during the winter months until re- quired to be brought into bloom. The Epiphyl- lum is one of the best of sitting-room plants, and may be had in bloom from November to March with good management. There were formerly many species included in this genus, most of which are now found in Cactus, Cereus, and Phyllocactus. Epiphytes. Plants which grow upon the surface of others, without deriving any nutri- ment from them, as many Mosses and Orchids. Epigy'nium leucobotrys. A synonym of Vac- cinium leucobotrys. Epipre'mnum. From epi, upon, and premnon, a trunk; in allusion to the species rooting upon the trunks of trees. Nat. Ord. Aroidece. A genus of about eight species of climb- ing evergreen plants from the Malayan 142 HENDEBSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS EPI Archipelago and the islands of the Pacific. E. Mirabile, the Tonga Plant, a native of Fiji, is thus described by N. E. Brown : " This is an ornamental climber, of rapid growth, with bold, dark green, pinnatisect leaves in the adult stage, and large inflorescences, resem- bling those of a Monstera. It is a very suitable plant for training up pillars, trunks of palms, tree ferns, etc., or the back wall of a stove; and besides its ornamental character, it is specially interesting for the manner in which the plant changes its appearance as it develops from its juvenile stage with small entire leaves, to its adult flowering stage with large pinnatisect leaves; as well as for its medi- cinal qualities, which appear to have been long known to the natives of the countries the plant inhabits." Epi'scia. From episcios, shaded ; occurring in their native habitats in shady places. Nat. Ord. GesneracecB. Green-house herbaceous perennials, wi^h beautifully colored foliage, and solitary flowers on short axillary stems. They make very pretty basket plants for the hot-house, the only place in which they thrive well. They grow best in sandy loam, and leaf mould, and are readily increased by cuttings. About thirty species have been described, all natives of Nicaragua, New Grenada, and the West Indies. Alsobia, Centroselenia, Cyrto- deira, Physodiera and Skiophila are now all referred to this genus. Equal. Where one part is of the same general form, disposition and size, as some other part with which it is compared ; applied to petals and sepals when they are equal in size and shape with each other. Equestrian Star. One of the popular names of Hippeastrum. Equinoctial. Plants whose flowers expand and close at particular hours of the day. Equiseta'ceae. A natural order of the higher Cryptogams which takes its name from the genus Equisetum, the only one the order con- tains. They are remarkable for the external resemblance which they bear in habit to Casuarina or Ephedra, and as regards the heads of fructification to Zamia. All re- semblance, however, ceases there, and the nat- ural affinities of the plants are with Ferns. There are about twenty-five species chiefly found in temperate northern regions ; a few are sub-tropical. One of the latter group, E. Martii, attains in its native habitat (Brazil) the enormous height of thirty feet. "Dutch Bushes," used for scouring and polishing, are the stems of E. hyemale. Equitant. A mode of vernation, or of arrange- ment of leaves with respect to each other, in which the sides or edges alternately overlap each other, as in Morcea iridioides. Eragro'stis. Love-Grass. From eros, love, and agrostis, grass ; in allusion to the beautiful dancing spikelets, whence the popular name. Nat Ord. Graminacece. A very extensive genus of grasses, found in nearly every part of the habitable globe. Most of the species are very handsome ; but none of them are of any value for agricultural pur- poses. E. elegans is a very ornamental spe- cies, somewhat resembling the Brizas in habit and gracefulness. It is especially adapted EBI for border culture, and is one of the most beautiful for winter or dried bouquets. Era'nthemvtm. From zran, to love, and anthe- mon, a flower ; referring to the beauty of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Acanthacece. A somewhat extensive genus of winter- flowering green-house plants, found pretty generally distributed throughout tropical and sub-tropical countries. The flowers are small, purple, white, blue, or rose-colored. They require the treatment of soft-wooded plants of the same class. The two species E. tricolor and E. atropwrpurea, are equal to Dracaenas in their beautiful crimson and carmine- colored foliage, which fits them either for massing outside or as specimens in the green- house. They are propagated by cuttings, and were first introduced in 1796. Era' nt his. Winter Aconite. From er, spring, and anthos, a flower; referring to its early flowering. Nat. Ord. Ranunculaceas. A small genus of hardy tuberous-rooted plants, natives of Italy and Siberia. E. hye- malis is the well-known Winter Aconite. It is one of the earliest and most hardy of spring flowers, throwing up its pretty yellow blos- soms long before the snow disappears, and continuing in flower for several weeks. This is the only species under cultivation, and is freely propagated by division of the tubers. It has been under cultivation since 1596. Eremostachys. From erymos, deserted, and stachys, a spike ; alluding to the flowers grow- ing in sparse verticillate spikes. Nat. Ord. Labiatce. Very pretty hardy perennials, natives of western and central Asia. E. laciniata, the only species in cultivation, bears yellow flow- ers in ten to twenty-flowered whorls, the upper ones approximate. Increased by divi- sion or seeds. Eremu'rus. From eremos, solitary, and oura, a tail ; referring to the flower spike. Nat. Ord. IAliacece. A genus of very pretty, hardy, herbaceous, large, Hyacinth-like plants, consisting of about eighteen species, natives principally of Asiatic Bussia. The yellow, white, or rose- colored flowers are borne on elongated ra- cemes ; the leaves are radical and linear. They are of easy culture, and are increased by division. Ergot. A disease of Corn, Bye, etc., produced by Fungi. E'ria. From erion, wool ; referring to the down on the leaves of some of the species. Nat. Ord. OrchidacecB. A small genus of pretty flowering hot-house Orchids, allied to Dendrobium, mostly from the East Indies. They require the same treat- ment as Stanhopea, and are propagated by division; introduced in 1837. Eria'nthus. Woolly Beard-Grass. From erion, wool, and anthos, a flower. Nat. Ord. Grami- nacece. A small genus of tall-growing, reed-like grasses. E. Ravennce, a rival to the Pampas Grass, though not so beautiful, is more valua- ble in this latitude, being perfectly hardy, and producing its graceful plumes in autumn in great abundance. It makes a magnificent lawn plant, and is propagated by root division and from seed. Introduced in 1824. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 143 ERI Eri'ca. Heath. From erico, to break ; referring to the brittle nature of the wood. Nat. Ord. Ericaceae. This genus comprehends a great number of species, the most of which are very beautiiul and interesting plants. Several hundred of the species, including all that are desirable for indoor culture, are natives of Table Mountain at the Cape of Good Hope. They all occupy elevated ranges, enjoying a pure air, refreshed by copious dews, and exposed for a long period to a dry, arid atmosphere. The Heath, however, can never be cultivated so successfully here as in England, as our cli- mate is too dry and hot in summer. What is called the soft-wooded section, such as E. per- soluta and its white variety, E. hyemalis, E. Wibnoreana, etc., can be grown here with success, and are exceedingly valuable, not only for winter green-house decoration, but for cut flowers. They are readily propagated by cuttings of half-ripened wood, which is in proper condition when it begins to turn brown. They are easily grown from seed, an interest- ing way, on account of the varieties produced when a little care has been given in cross-fer- tilization. The seeds should be sown in pots of finely-sifted peat and sand pressed tightly into the pot, well watered before sowing, and afterward covered with a bell glass. They should then be kept in a cool house or pit, where they can have an even temperature and moisture. The Cape species were first intro- duced into England in 1774. Erica'cese. A natural order of shrubs or under- shrubs, with evergreen, rigid, entire, whorled or opposite leaves without stipules. Arbutus Unedo is the Strawberry Tree. Rhododendron arboreum sometimes reaches in India a height of forty feet, and some species grow at an elevation of 16,000 to 18,000 feet in the Hima- layas. Several species of Azalea, Rhododen- dron and Kalmia are natives of the United States. The plants of this order are highly prized for the beauty of their flowers. There are about fifty known genera and 900 species. Erica, Rhododendron, Kalmia, Clethr a, Arbutus, and Ledum are examples of this order. Uri'geron. From er, the spring, and geron, an old man; some being hoary with a downy covering early in the season. Nat. Ord. Com- positai. A genus of coarse-growing, unpretending, herbaceous plants, found common in waste places throughout the United States ; in some localities known as Fleabane. The plants are of no economic value. Erino'sma. A synonym of Leucojum, which see. Eri'nus. Meaning unknown. (The wild Fig- tree is the Erinos described by Dioscorides. It has, however, no resemblance to the Erinos of the moderns.) Nat. Ord. Scrophulariaceaz. This is a small genus of hardy herbaceous Alpine plants, suitable for rock- work or other rough, uneven situations. They are low- growing plants, generally forming close tufts, producing lively purple and white flowers in early spring. Though perfectly hardy, they are impatient of water, and, consequently, should have the protection of a frame in win- ter, unless planted in a very dry situation. There are one or two evergreen species from the Cape of Good Hope, but they are little ERI known. The hardy species are propagated by root division or from seed. First introduced into the garden in 1739. Erinus. Prickly, rough. Eriobo'trya. The Loquat, or Japanese Medlar, E. (Mespilus) Japonica, one of the Pomaceoz, is a native of Japan and the southern part of China, and is cultivated as an edible fruit in many parts of India. It is now placed under the genus Photinia, which see. Eriocaula'ceae. A natural order of marsh plants with narrow, spongy leaves. There are ten known genera and 220 species. None are cultivated except in botanic gardens. Eriocaulon is the typical example of the order. Eriocne'ma. From erion, wool, and kneme, a knee; the joints are woolly. Nat. Ord. Melas- tomaceoB. A small genus of green-house herbaceous plants, allied to the Sonerila, and natives of Brazil. The flowers are white, produced spar- ingly in little umbels on the end of a naked stalk. E. marmoratum has beautifully varie- gated leaves, green striped with broad bands of white. Its habit is not unlike some of the Begonias. Propagated by cuttings. Intro- duced in 1850. Eriogo'num. From erion, wool, and genu, a joint ; joints of the stems downy. Nat. Ord. Polygonacecs. A genus of pretty, summer-flowering hardy annuals and herbaceous or somewhat woody perennials. They are easily cultivated, and young plants may be obtained by division or from seed. The genus contains about one hun- dred species, natives of north-west America. Erio'phorum. Cotton Grass. From erion, wool, and phoreo, to bear ; in reference to the silky tails or coverings of the seeds. Nat. Ord. Cyperaceaz. A very interesting genus of marsh or bog plants, commonly, but incorrectly, termed grasses. They are hardy herbaceous plants, growing in dense clumps or masses, very con- spicuous and interesting, on account of the flowers of some of the species, the heads of which appear like tufts of cotton. One of the species is indigenous in this country, and several of them have been naturalized from Europe. Erio'psis. From eria, a well-known genus of Orchids, and opsis, resemblance ; woolliness of flowers. Nat. Ord. Orchidacea. A small genus of Orchids, having the gen- eral appearance, while growing, of the genus Eria, but with gay, orange-colored flowers, resembling the Vandas. They are natives of Mexico and New Grenada, and are but lit- tle cultivated. Eriospe'rmum. From erion, wool, and spermos, a seed ; woolly-seeded. Nat. Ord. IAliaceai. A considerable genus of bulbs from the Cape of Good Hope, the flowers of which pre- cede the leaves. The flowers have no special beauty, and the leaves always have a deformed appearance. Erioste'mon. From erion, wool, and stemon, a stamen ; referring to the woolly stamens. Nat. Ord. Rutacece. A genus of handsome green-house plants from New Holland, of neat, compact habit of growth, and free-flowering. The flowers are 144 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS EKI white or pinkish, produced singly at the axils of the leaves. They require plenty of air and light, and are propagated by cuttings of the young shoots in April. Introduced in 1824. Eritri'chium. From erion, wool, and thrix, trichos, hair ; plants woolly. Nat. Ord. Bora- ginacecB. A genus of handsome dwarf annual or per- ennial herbaceous plants, found throughout the temperate regions of the northern hem- isphere, South Africa and Australia. E. nanum, the one most generally cultivated, has flowers of a brilliant sky-blue color, with a yellowish eye, not unlike those of Myosotis alpestris, but larger. It has been enthusiastically termed "The Glory of the Alpine Flora." E. barbigerum, introduced to cultivation from California in 1886, is a very pretty white-flow- ered annual species, the whole plant covered with long, spreading hairs. Increased by seeds or division. Ero'dium. Heron's-bill. From erodios, a heron ; referring to the resemblance of the style and ovaries to the beak and head of the heron. Nat. Ord. Geraniacem. The genus Erodium differs from the Gerani- um and Pelargonium in the shape of its seed vessel. In all the three the seed-pod resem- bles the head and beak of a bird ; in Geranium it resembles a crane's bill, in Pelargonium it is a stork's bill, and in Erodium a heron's bill. The species are dwarf annuals and perennials producing mostly lilac and purple flowers. Every part of the plant, when bruised, emits a strong peculiar odor. They form admirable plants for the rock-garden, particularly in dry, sunny situations and in sandy soil. Increased by division, or by seeds. Erose, Eroded. Having the margin irregularly toothed, as if bitten by an animal; a term used to express a particular kind of dentieu- lation, as in Salvia pinnata. Erubescent. Reddish, blush-colored. E'rvum. Lentil. From erw, tilled land, in Celtic ; some of the species are pests in culti- vated ground. Nat. Ord. Leguminosw. A genus justly classed as weeds, the only species of interest being E. Lens, the common Lentil, a plant of the greatest antiquity. It was from the seed of this that the pottage is supposed to have been made, for which Esau sold his birthright. It is held in high esteem in Egypt and Syria, and is considered an indispensable diet by the natives, who undertake long journeys. It is largely sold by druggists under the name of Ervalenta. This genus is now merged by " Hooker and Bentham " into Vicia. Ery'ngium. Eryngo. From Eryngion, a name adopted by Pliny from Dioscorides. Nat. Ord. Umbelliferce. A very extensive genus of hardy annuals and herbaceous perennials, the latter being common throughout Europe. E. maritimum, Sea Eryngo, or Sea Holly, is a conspicuous plant along the English coast ; the flowers are thistle-like, of a bright blue color. E. ame- thystinum, a native of Dalmatia, is one of the best of the perennial species ; the flowers, as well as the bracts and upper part of the stems, have a beautiful blue tint. Some of the an- nual species are very beautiful border plants, EEY and if cut early, are useful as dried flowers in winter bouquets. Eryobo'trya. Japan Evergreen Plum. From erion, wool, and botrys, a bunch of grapes ; referring to the downy flower-racemes. Nat. Ord. Pomacem. E. Japonica, the only species, is a half-hardy evergreen shrub closely allied to Photinia, having large wrinkled leaves, downy beneath. The whitish flowers are borne in October and November, consequently it will not ripen its excellent, pale orange-red fruit in our north- ern States, neither will it endure the rigors of our northern winters. There is a variegated leaved variety, which is exceedingly orna- mental. Ery'simum. Hedge Mustard. From eryo, to draw; it is considered a powerful cure for sore throat ; it is also said to draw and pro- duce blisters. Nat. Ord. G'ruciferaz. An extensive genus, mostly biennials. All of but little merit. One or two cultivated species of hardy annuals make rather effective clumps in the border. E. Arkansanum, the western Wall-flower, grows about two feet high, the stem being crowded with bright orange yellow flowers as large as those of the Wall-flower. Propagated by seed. Erythe'a. A small genus of green-house palms from southern California, with fan-shaped, plicate, filiferous leaves much resembling the Latania; excellent for lawn decoration or for cool-house culture. E. edulis, forms a handsome tree with a slender trunk thirty or more feet high. Each tree bears one to four panicles, blossoming late in March ; the fruit clusters are said to weigh forty to fifty pounds. Syn. Brahea edulis. Erythrae'a. Centaury. From erythros, red ; the color of the flowers of some of the species. Nat. Ord. Gentianacea. A somewhat extensive genus of biennials and annuals. The latter are of easy culture, and produce freely small pink flowers. Seed should be sown in autumn in the open border. The biennials require the protection of the frame, which their merits do not deserve. The annuals are natives of Europe, and have been long known in the garden. Erythri'na. Coral-tree. From erythros, red ; the color of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Legumi- nosce. A genus of ornamental flowering green- house shrubs, commonly known as Coral- trees, found pretty generally distributed throughout the tropics of both hemispheres. They all produce scarlet or crimson pea- shaped flowers in pairs at the axils of the leaves. E. Crista-galli and laurifolia, natives of Brazil, succeed well planted out in a warm sit- uation in the open border, producing flowers in the greatest abundance ; being rank grow- ers, they require considerable room. As a shrub for the lawn they have few, if any, superiors, their showy flowers contrasting finely with their bright glossy foliage. E. Hendersonii, a variety of recent introduction, is one of the very finest flowers, a bright scarlet, smaller than the other species, but produced in greater abundance. As it flowers earlier it seeds freely, so that it can be grown as an annual plant. The only care required is to take the plants up, after the tops are AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 145 ERY killed by frost, and keep them through the ■winter in a warm dry room, or in the cellar, covering the roots well with dry sand. In spring cut well back before planting out. They are readily propagated by cuttings of the young shoots, or from seed which, sown in boxes about the first of January, will make flowering plants the coming summer. Erythrolae'na. Mexican Thistle. From ery- thros, red, and Icena, a cloak ; referring to the scarlet flowers. Nat. Ord. Composite. E. conspicua, the only species, is the pretti- est of all the Thistles. It is a tall plant, growing from eight to ten feet high ; the leaves, not unlike the common Thistle, are at the base of the plant, two feet long. The flower-heads, clustered at the ends of the branches, are about three inches long, and very handsome, scarlet and orange. Young plants are readily obtained from seed. Intro- duced in 1825. Erythro'nium. Dog's-Tooth Violet. From erythros, red ; referring to the color of the leaves and flowers of the species first dis- covered. Nat. Ord. Liliacem. A genus of small growing bulbous-rooted plants. Most of the species are American, and are common in moist woods in most of the States. With but one exception the na- tive varieties have large yellow flowers, borne singly on a slender scape six to nine inches high. E. albidum, a rare species found in Iowa and southward, has nearly white flow- ers, without the spots on the leaves common to the species. E. dens-canis, common in Europe, has purplish rose-colored flowers, with light rose-color within. Propagated by offsets. Erythro'xylon. From erythros, red, and xylon, wood ; the wood of the trees is red. Nat. Ord. Erythroxylacece. Bushy shrubs, or low-growing trees, chiefly natives of tropical South America, and the West Indies. One of the species has a world- wide reputation. For the following account and description of it we are indebted to The Treasury of Botany: " E. Coca is the most interesting of the species, on account of its being extensively cultivated, and its leaves largely employed as a masticatory, under the name of Coca, by the inhabitants of countries on the Pacific side of South America. It is a shrub of six or eight feet high, somewhat re- sembling a Blackthorn bush. The Coca leaves are of a thin texture, but opaque, oval, taper- ing toward both extremities, their upper sur- face dark green, the lower paler and strongly marked with veins, of which two, in addition to the midrib, run parallel with the margin. Small white flowers are produced in little clusters upon the branches, in places where the leaves have fallen away, and stand upon little stalks about as long as themselves. The use of Coca in Peru is a custom of very great antiquity, and is said to have originated with the Incas. At the present day it is common throughout the greater part of Peru, Quito and New Grenada; and also on the banks of the Rio Negro, where it is known as Spadic. Coca forms an article of commerce among the Indians, and wherever they go they carry with them a bag of the carefully dried leaves, and also a little bottle-gourd filled with finely powdered lime, and having a EUC wooden or metal needle attached to its stop- per. Four times a day, whatever the nature of his occupation, whether employed in the mines, the fields, as a muleteer or domestic servant, the Indian resigns himself to the pleasures of Coca chewing, mixing the leaves with lime, or the ashes of Cecropia. When used in moderation Coca exerts a pleasurable influence upon the imagination, and induces a forgetfulness of all care. It is also a pow- erful stimulant of the nervous system, and, when under its influence, Indians are able to perform long and rapid journeys, and carry heavy loads, without requiring any other sus- tenance. But when taken in excess it pro- duces intoxication, of a character resembling that of opium rather than alcohol, but not so violent, although the consequence of its pro- longed use are quite as injurious, and very few of those who become slaves to the habit attain an old age. Spruce says that an In- dian with a chew of Spadic in his cheek will go two or three days without food, and with- out feeling any desire to sleep." A prepara- tion of Coca, under the name of " Coca Beef Tonic," is now being sold; but those who use it will do well to remember that it does not " make old bones." Escallo'nia. Named after Escallon, a Spanish traveler. Nat. Ord. Saxifragacece. Ornamental summer flowering shrubs from South America, suitable for shrubbery borders In our Southern States. They flourish vigor- ously near the sea, and can be used as hedge or shelter plants. The flowers vary from white to pink and deep red, and the undivided, usually seriated leaves are often glandular. Escallonia'cese. This natural order is now placed by Bentham and Hooker, as a tribe of Saxifragacem. Eschalot. See Shallot. Eschscho'ltzia. Named after Dr. Eschscholtz, a botanist. Nat. Ord. Papaveracem. Annual plants, with showy flowers, natives of California, on which account the first species introduced was called the California Poppy. The seeds should be sown in the open border as soon as they are ripe, as, if the sowing be delayed till spring, the plants frequently do not flower till the second year. Many showy garden varieties are now in cul- tivation, including double white, double yel- low, and several others. Espa'rto. The Spanish name of Macrochloa tenacissima, used for paper making, cordage, etc. E'stragon. Tarragon. See Artemisia Dracun- culus. Etiolated. Deprived of color by being kept in the dark ; blanched. Euade'nia. From eu, well, and aden, a gland ; in allusion to the appendix at the base of the stamens. Nat. Ord. Capparidaceai. E. eminens, the only species yet in cultiva- tion, is a striking plant with " singularly handsome inflorescence, which resembles a candelabrum in its ramification, the yellow petals looking like pairs of gas jets on each branch." Introduced from west tropical Africa in 1880. Eucaly'ptus. Gum Tree. From eu, well, and ka~ lypto, to cover ; the limb of the calyx covers the 146 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS EUC flower before expansion, and afterward falls off in the shape of a lid or cover. Nat. Ord. Myrtacece. An extensive genus of immense evergreen trees, of the Australian and Tasmanian for- ests. E. globulus, the Blue Gum Tree, has been extensively planted within the past few years in the Southern State? ana California, for the reputation it has of absorbing malaria. The tree is very ornamental, and furnishes timber of a superior quality. Its rapid growth excites the wonder and admiration of those already accustomed to the extraordinary de- velopment of the vegetable kingdom on the Pacific coast. It will be remembered that Australia sent to the World's Fair at London, in 1863, a plank from this tree 250 feet long. Young plants are readily obtained from seed or from cuttings. The species are not hardy in the United States north of the Carolinas. Euchari'dium. From eucharis, agreeable ; in allusion to the appearance of the plant. Nat. Ord. Onagracem. A genus of pretty little annuals from Cali- fornia, allied to the Clarkias. They come into flower in six weeks after germination ; are perfectly hardy, and are extremely showy when grown in masses. They succeed best in a rich, loamy soil ; introduced in 1836. Eu'charis. Lily of the Amazon. From eucharis, agreeable ; alluding to the fragrant flowers. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. Of this genus there are five species in culti- vation, all free-growing bulbous plants of rare beauty and delicious fragrance. They should be grown in the hot-house or a warm green- house. The flowers are produced in a truss of from four to eight, according to the strength of the bulb and manner of treatment, and are borne on a stem that lifts them well above the leaves. They are pure waxy white and of great substance. If asked for the plant producing the best white flowers for the hot- house, for the decoration of vases, or for any other purpose where white flowers are wanted, we should unhesitatingly recommend the Eu- charis, as combining all the essentials of the perfect flower. From a general impression that they are difficult to manage, they are but little grown. As the plants are found growing by the sides of rivers, moisture and heat are of course essential to the development of their flowers. The ease with which they are now cultivated and the fact that a dozen or more large pots of it will furnish flowers nearly the whole year, make it invaluable in all collections of choice plants. The plants may be repotted at any time of the year, taking care not to damage the bulbs or roots, and removing as much of the old soil as possible. The soil should be composed of loam, leaf mould, sand, and well- rotted manure in equal proportions ; and the pots liberally drained. While they are grow- ing freely they should have plenty of water, and liquid manure twice a week. They should be syringed twice a day. The tem- perature of the house during winter should not fall below 70°, and they should have a good share of sunshine. If wanted to flower during the winter months, water should be used sparingly from August to October. The bulbs should be disturbed as little as possible, repotting when necessary, without division. EUG Side shoots may be taken off at any time and potted in small pots, and, if well managed, they will flower in a year. Green fly and thrips which are apt to trouble them, should then be sponged off or got rid of by smoking every alternate day for a week. The three species E. grandiflora, the largest and best, E. Amazonica, and E. Candida, a small flower- ing species, are very beautiful, and all require the same general treatment. This plant was first introduced in 1864. (Syn. Reeana.) See Euchla'ena Luxurians. Teosinte. Eucni'de. Derivation of name not given. Nat. Ord. Loasacem. E. bartonioides, the only species, is a native of Mexico, a tender annual, growing about one foot high, with bristly stems, and lobes, and denticulated leaves, and axillary, very large yellow flowers. It will thrive under the same treatment given tender annuals. Intro- duced 1849. Syn. Mentzelia. Eucodo'nia. A genus of Mexican plants, now included under Achimenes. E. grandiflora, the species grown for its flowers, was also called Mandirola lanata. Eu'coniis. From eukomes, beautiful-haired ; re- ferring to the tufted crown of the flower-spike. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. A genus of coarse-growing bulbs from the Cape of Good Hope, requiring green-house treatment, as they rest in summer. E. bifolia, one of the species, has only two leaves, lying flat on the ground, and a short raceme of pale green flowers. The only merit of the species is in the fragrance of the flowers. They grow with the most ordinary treatment, and are propagated by offsets ; introduced in 1774. Eucro'ma A synonym for Castilleja. Eucro'sia. From eu, beautiful, and krossos, a fringe ; referring to the cup above the inser- tion of the stamens. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidaceas. A genus of green-house bulbs from South America, mostly from the western declivity of the Peruvian Andes. E. bicolor, the only species, has bright vermilion flowers, with a purple stripe on the outside of the petals. They are borne in a terminal cluster on a scape about one foot high. They should be grown in a warm green-house ; in winter they require perfect rest. Propagated by offsets. Introduced in 1816. Eucry'phia. From eu, well, and kryphios, cov- ered ; referring to the calyptra of the flower. Nat. Ord. Hypericacece. A genus of three or four species of very handsome hardy or green-house evergreen shrubs of easy culture. E. pinnatifida has large white flowers, usually borne in pairs near the upper portion of the branches, and rich deep-green pinnate leaves. Introduced from Chili in 1880. Euge'nia. Rose Apple. Named after Prince Eugene of Saxony. Nat. Ord. Myrtacew. A genus of handsome shrubs, grown as fruit trees in the East Indies, but grown in English hot-houses for their splendid white flowers, which are produced freely; they are propa- gated by cuttings of the ripe wood. Recent botanists place here E. Pimenta, which pro- duces the allspice of commerce. See Pimenta. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 147 EUL Eula'lia. From eu, well, and lalia, speech ; in reference to the high reputation of the plants. Nat. Ord. Graminacece. We are indebted to the American Agricul- turist for the following history and description of this genus : " One of the most beautiful of ornamental grasses is the variegated Eulalia Japonica, which was sent from Japan several years ago by Mr. Thomas Hogg. It was illus- trated in ' Hearth and Home ' in 1871, and a year or two later was placed in the trade. It is a robust perennial grass, forming, when well established, large clumps, with firm, but graceful, leaves, which are marked with alter- nate stripes of creamy-white and green, much after the manner of the old ' Ribbon or Striped Grass ' of the gardens, and presenting quite as much variety in the striping. This is taller and more erect than that, and the leaves are longer and more robust. The flower stalks appear in September, and the plant at this time is from four to six feet high. The flower panicles are at first brownish, with erect branches, and not at all showy, but as the flowers open, the branches of the panicle curve over gracefully in a one-sided manner, and bear a strong resemblance in form to what is known as a ' Prince of Wales' feather ;' each of the individual flowers, which are very numerous upon each branch of the cluster, has at its base a tuft of lang, silky hairs, and these contribute greatly to the feathery light- ness of the whole. When Mr. Hogg sent this, it was accompanied by another variety of the same grass, which did not survive the effects of the journey. Upon a second visit to Japan, he procured other plants of this last variety, which reached this country in good condition. This variety, whiih it is proposed to call Eulalia Jctpsnica, var. Zebrina, the ' Zebra- striped Eulalia, or Zebra Grass, in all that relates to form, habit, and its flowers, is quite like zhe other, but differs most essentially in the manner of its variegation. In the older variety the leaves, according to the usual manner of variegation in grasses, have the markings run lengthwise of the leaf, while in this Zebrina variety they run crosswise. The leaves present alternate bands of green and creamy white of varying width, but with the colors quite well defined, and producing a most singular effect. Japan is remarkable for the great number of plants with variegated foliage that it has contributed to our collec- tions, but we have not seen any variegation that interested us so much as this peculiar grass. We have seen but one other plant with its variegation so singularly disposed, and that was also from the same country. In the quaint little garden attached to the* Jap- anese Bazar at the Centennial Exhibition was a Bulrush (Scirpus), the cylindrical stems of which were marked transversely, though the markings were much less positive, than in the grass in question . Aside from the ornamental effect of its peculiar transverse markings, this variety has great interest for us in a physio- logical or pathological point of view. It is claimed by some that all variegation of foli- age, or at least that in which the green of the leaf is changed to white or yellow, is an indi- cation of disease, and this view is strongly maintained in spite of the numerous instances in which the variegated plants are more vigorous and hardy than typical plain green EUP ones of the same species. To those who hold this view — that variegation is due to disease — this Zebrina variety of Eulalia presents a dif- ficult problem. As the circulation of the juices of the leaf must take place in a lengthwise direction, the nutriment for each green por- tion of the leaf must pass through one of the colored sections, ana those who regard these white, or whitish, bands as marks of disease, will be puzzled to account for the occurrence of green sections of the leaf which, though placed directly between two 'diseased' por- tions, remain in perfect health throughout the whole season of growth." The Eulalias are perfectly hardy in this latitude, and are valu- able acquisitions to the garden, not only for the grace and elegance of the foliage, but for the flowers as "dried grasses." They keep for years, presenting somewhat the appear- ance of an ostrich feather. Propagated by division or by seeds, which, however, do not produce variegated leaves. Eulo'phia. From eulophos, handsome-crested; referring to the handsome lip, which is fur- rowed into elevated ridges. Nat. Ord. Orchid- acecB. An extensive genus, consisting of both ter- restrial and epiphytal orchids, natives of tropical Asia, Africa, and America, but occur- ring in the greatest numbers at the Cape of Good Hope. E. Dregiana, a native of the Cape, is of free habit, producing spikes of flowers which resemble little doves hanging by their beaks; the sepals and petals are chocolate color, and the lip white. They require the same treatment as the Cypri- pedium. Euo'nymus. Burning Bush. Spindle-tree. From eu, well, and onoma, a name ; literally, of good repute. Nat. Ord. Celastracece. An extensive genus of low-growing trees and shrubs, mostly of an ornamental char- acter. E. atropurpureus, a native species, is a valuable shrub for the border, on account of its handsome foliage, its abundance of purple flowers, and its copious crimson fruit in autumn. This species is what is commonly called Burning Bush, or Waahoo. It grows freely in almost any soil or situation, preferring a moist one. Japan has furnished several spe- cies with ornamental foliage, that are among our most useful plants for single specimens, for baskets, or window gardens. E. radicana variegata has leaves of green and white, is a rapid grower, and hardy south of New York. It is readily increased by cuttings. The Japan species are evergreen, and were first intro- duced in 1804. Eupato'rium. Named after Mithridates Eupator, King of Pontus, who discovered one of the species to be an antidote against poison. Nat. Ord. Compositaz. An extensive genus, consisting for the most part of native hardy herbaceous plants. A number of speeies are grown in the green- house for their flowers and are produced freely in winter ; of these the species known in cultivation as E. elegans, E. riparium, and E. Weinmannianum, all very graceful plants with white flowers, are the most use- ful, and are grown in large quantities for early winter use. They are natives of South Amer- ica, and are increased by cuttings. Of our native kinds, E. agerataides, White Snake- 148 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS EUP root, is the most valuable as a flowering plant. The flowers are pure white, borne in terminal clusters or heads. The plant grows about four feet high, is very branching, and prefers a thick shade. It flowers late in August, and is very showy for nearly a month. E. perfo- liatum, Bone-set, has, outside of the " regular practice," considerable reputation as a tonic stimulant, and is often administered in the form of a tea, made from the leaves, in cases of intermittent fevers. They are readily increased by root division or from seeds. Eupho'rbia. Milk-wort or Spurge. Named after Euphorbus, physician to the King of Mauritania. Nat. Ord Euphorbiacece. This is an extensive and variable genus, including species with the aspect of trees or large shrubs, and through every gradation, downward to the humblest annual weeds, all of them remarkable for an acrid milky juice. Notwithstanding the extent and variety of the genus, there are comparatively few of its members in cultivation ; the principal of them being E. splendens, E. jacquiniflora (fulgens or prunifolia) and E. Bojeri. These do best in the hot-house, and are well deserving atten- tion for their rich red or crimson flowers, and amply repay the little trouble occasioned. These species are all much improved by frequent stopping, as it induces a more dense habit, and consequently a greater display of flowers. It is worthy of remark that the first flowers that expand in each season on E. splendens are in pairs, but those which follow are each time increased in duplicate ratio, so that those which open last are commonly as many as eight together. The other perennial species require to be treated in the manner of Cacti, and the remainder respectively as they belong to the hardy or tender classes of the annual, biennial, or perennial plants. E. corollata, a native species, is a free-flowering plant, and valuable for florist's use, or for cut-flowers. They are small, greenish white, in general appearance like the Forget-me-not. This species is readily propagated by root division. The French sub- stitute the seeds of E. lathyrus for the English capers, which, if taken in quantity, prove highly deleterious. For E. Poinsettei, see Poinsettia pulcherrima. Euphorbia'ceae. A very large order of trees, shrubs, or herbs, usually abounding in milky juice. The species are found in all, except Arctic climates. They are generally acrid and poisonous. Some yield starch, and others oils and Caoutchouc. Castor Oil is obtained from the seeds of Ricinus communis and Croton Oil from Croton Tiglium. The seeds of Jatropha Curcas, the Physic Nut, are purgative. Stil- lingia Sebifera, is the Tallow Tree of China, the fatty matter being procured from the fruit. Dyes are supplied by Crozophora tinc- toria and Rottlera tinctoria. African Oak or Teak is yielded by Oldfieldia Africana. Caout- chouc by Siphonia elastica, S. lutea, S. brevi- folia, S. Braziliensis, and S. Spruceana ; and the poisonous Manchineel by Hippomane Man- cinella. Janipha Manihot or Manihot utilissima furnishes Cassava and Tapioca, which consist of starchy matter from its root. Colliguaja odorifera has peculiar jumping seeds, owing to their becoming the habitation of the larva of an insect. Box-wood is the product of Buxus EUR 8empervirens. There are other useful and curious species, some of which are cultivated for their beautiful flowers. There are 230 known genera and about 2,600 species. Euphor- bia, Phyllanthus, Croton, Jatropha, Siphonia Ricinus, and Poinsettia are examples of the order. Euphra'sia. Eyebright. From euphraino, to de- light; fabled to cure blindness. Nat Ord. Scrophulariacece. E. officinalis, Eyebright, is a little annual common in dry pastures and roadsides in this country and Europe. It seldom grows more than three or four inches in height, and often not more than one or two. From the frequent mention of the Euphrasia by the poets, it would appear to have been formerly held in high repute for its medical virtues, a view which is confirmed by all the old herbalists, who recommend its use both outwardly and inwardly for complaints of the eyes. It has no value as a flowering plant. Eu'rya. From eurys, large ; erroneously applied to the flowers, which are comparatively small. Nat. Ord. Ternstromiacece. A genus of very ornamental half-hardy ever- green shrubs or low-growing trees, with white flowers borne in axillary clusters. They are natives of Japan, India, China and the Indian Archipelago. The variegated variety of E. Japonica latifolia is a most useful plant for decorative purposes, as it stands the dry heat of rooms or halls well, and its glossy varie- gated leaves contrast well with Palms or other fine-foliage plants. Eu'ryale. Euryale, one of the Gorgons, repre- sented with fierce, thorny locks ; in allusion to the thorny nature of the plant. Nat. Ord. Nymphacea. An annual stove aquatic. Before the intro- duction of the Victoria regia this was the noblest aquatic plant in cultivation. Its leaves are circular, about two feet in diameter, with prominent spiny veins. Flowers deep violet, opening in September. Introduced from the East Indies in 1809. Eury'bia. From euribies, wide-spreading; re- ferring to the roots. Nat. Ord. Composite. A genus of evergreen trees and shrubs and a few herbaceous perennials. They are mostly tropical, natives of Tasmania, and New Zea- land. E. argophylla, syn. Aster argophyllus, a Tasmanian species, is called by the natives the silver-leaved Musk tree. It is occasion- ally seen in green-houses, where it is culti- vated for the musky odor of its leaves. Most of the species are noted for their ornamental foliage; they would be valuable for lawn planting in the Southern States. Eury'cles. From eurys, broad, and Mas, a branch; referring to the broad leaves or branch-like foot-stalks. Nat. Ord. Amaryl- lidacem. A genus of strong-growing bulbs, found in the Eastern Archipelago and in New Holland. This genus was formerly included in Pancra- tium, from which it is distinguished by its broad, nearly heart-shaped leaves, and its flowers with a long cylindrical tube, with equal and regular petals. The flowers are borne in umbels, and are pure white. They are generally grown in the green-house, and must have complete rest during winter, EULALIA ZEBRINA (ZEBRA. GRASS). F.RYTHRONIUM DENS-CANIb (DOG'S-TOOTH VIOLET.) EtTOHARIS AMAZONICA. EtTLALIA GRACILLEMA. i*8 EUCHARIDIUM. EXACUM AFFINE. EUCALYPTUS. in ^ w % ■ll EUPHORBIA HETEROPHYLLA FENZLIA DIANTHIKLORA. EUPHORBIA VARIEGATA. ERYNGIUM GIGANTEUM. 149 AND GENEBAL HOETICULTUBE. 149 EUR but if planted out in May they will flower finely. Propagated by suckers, which should be taken off when a new growth commences in spring. First introduced in 1821. Euryga'nia. Named after Eurygania, the wife of iEdipus. Nat. Ord. Vaccinacece. A genus of about a dozen species of orna- mental evergreen shrubs with pendant branches and bright-colored, generally red, flowers, allied to Thibaudia. All are natives of the Andes of South America. Eusca'phis. From eu, well, and skaphis, a bowl : in allusion to the persistent, bowl-like calyx. Nat. Ord. Sapindaceaz. A genus of two species of hardy glabrous shrubs, natives of Japan. E. staphyleoides has white or yellowish flowers, borne in terminal panicles, succeeded by red, bladdery fruit, remaining on the bush until winter. This plant is highly prized in its native country for its medicinal properties. Eu'stoma. From eustomos, of beautiful counte- nance; referring to the corolla. Nat. Ord. Gentianacece. A genus containing only two species, with bright purple or purplish-blue flowers, closely allied to Lisianthus. They are elegant little plants, found from Florida and Texas to Ne- braska, and are readily increased by seeds. Euta'xia. From eutaxia, modesty ; referring to the delicate aspect of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A genus of very pretty green-house shrubs, natives of "Western Australia. They- are chiefly low-growing and bushy, with small heath-like leaves, and pure yellow pea-shaped flowers, produced in small axillary clusters. E. myrtifolia is a popular green-house plant, whose slender stems are often seen thickly covered in the spring and summer months with its bright yellow flowers. The species are increased by cuttings. Introduced in 1803. Eute'rpe. After Euterpe, one of the nine Muses. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. A genus of Palms of extremely graceful habit, natives of South America and the West Indies. With the exception of E. montana, from the latter country, all are too tall grow- ing for the green-house. This species attains a height of about twenty feet, and has the base of the stem much swollen or bulged out. The leaf bud and the central portion of the upper stem are cooked as a vegetable or pickled by the natives, and is highly esteemed. Propagated by seed. Euto'ca. From eutokos, fruitful; referring to the abundance of seeds. Nat. Ord. Hydro- phyllacecs. A genus of hardy annuals, with blue, pink, or lilac flowers, mostly from California. A few species are found in Virginia, and south and west, but are not of sufficient merit to warrant their introduction into the garden. Those from California are free-flowering, and of the easiest culture. The seed should be •sown as early in spring as possible. Evening Flower. See Hesperantha. Evening Glory. See Ipomoza. Evening Primrose. See (Enothera. Evergreens. A term applied to trees, shrubs, or other plants, that retain their foliage during winter. EXO Everlasting Flower. See Helichrysum. Common American. Gnaphaliumpolycephalum, and G. decurrens. Swan River. Rhodanthe Manglesii. Yellow. Helichrysum orientate and H. arena- rium. Everlasting Pea. See Lathyrus latifolius. Evolved. Unfolded. Evo'lvulus. From evolvo, to roll out, the op- posite to Convolvulus ; referring to the plant not twining. Nat. Ord. Convolvulacece. An extensive genus of annuals and peren- nials, mostly from the East Indies and South America, a few species being found in Florida. The flowers of these plants are extremely beautiful, mostly of a large size, and of various shades of blue and white. The annuals should be started in a hot-bed or green-house, and planted out as soon as the weather will per- mit, or they may be grown in pots and trained on a balloon frame. The perennials should be kept dry and dormant through the winter, and started in a brisk heat in spring. During summer they may be grown in the green- house, or in pots, and trained on a trellis, or other suitable place for a climbing plant. The perennials may be increased by cuttings of young shoots. First introduced in 1817. E'xacum. This name was used by Pliny, and by him derived from ex, out, and ago, to drive ; in allusion to its supposed expelling powers. Nat. Ord. Gentianacece. Annual, or perennial herbs, with opposite sessile leaves, and showy blue, yellow or white flowers. This genus contains nearly twenty species, though they are not yet all in cultivation. E. macranthum from Ceylon, has rich blue-purple colored flowers, about two inches in diameter, with large bright yellow stamens. All the species are showy and de- serving of cultivation. Propagated by seeds or cuttings. Excoriate. Stripped of the bark or skin. Excretion. Any superfluous matter thrown off by the living plant externally ; the action by which a superabundance of secreted mat- ter is rejected from a secreting vessel. Also the matter itself thus excreted ; gum, resin, etc., are examples. Excurrent. Projecting or running beyond the edge of anything ; running out. When a stem remains always central, all the other parts being regularly disposed round it, as in the stem of a Fir Tree. Exocho'rda. Pearl Bush. From exo, out of, and chorde, a cord ; referring to the cords by which the seeds are suspended. Nat. Ord. Rosacea. E. grandiflora, the only species yet in culti- vation, is a beautiful hardy shrub from China, introduced a few years since, and as yet com- paratively little known. It is in substance described in the late edition of the Treasury of Botany as being remarkable for the struc- ture of its fruits, which consist of five small compressed bony carpels adhering round a central axis in a star-like manner. From the axis or growing point stand five erect placen- tary cords, which enter the carpels on their inner face near the top, suspending from the apex two thin seeds. These cords remain after the carpels have fallen, and have suggested 150 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS EXO the name of the genus. It is a smooth shrub or dwarf tree, with alternate nearly lance- shaped entire leaves, the stems terminated by racemes of handsome white flowers, which appear in May and June, and are about an inch in diameter. They have a bell-shaped calyx with a five-parted border, five rounded petals, and fifteen to twenty stamens. The plant is also known as Spircea grandiflora. It is a beautiful tall-growing shrub, worthy of a place on the lawn and in the shrubbery. It is still a rare plant in the United States, chiefly because it is difficult to propagate, and in consequence is not easy to get. It is propa- gated by seeds, layers, or suckers. Exogens. A name given to one of the great classes of the vegetable kingdom, correspond- ing with the Dicotyledons. The name Exogen is from the Greek, and signifies outward and to grow, meaning growing outwardly, and has reference to the manner in which the woody circles are produced, viz., from the center outwardly toward the circumference. The age of an exogenous tree, especially in tem- perate climates, may be determined by count- ing the number of zones or circles in the woody stem, each circle marking one year's growth, and the last formed circle being ex- ternal. The characters of the class are given under Dicotyledons, which see. Exogo'nium. From exo, external ; referring to the exserted stamens. Nat. Ord. Convolvula- ceee. The few species that are included in this genus are closely allied to, and very nearly resemble the tuberous-rooted Ipomozas. They are desirable climbers, flowering freely nearly FAG the whole summer. During winter the tubers should be kept dry and free from frost. E. purga, a Mexican species, has beautiful sal- ver-shaped, purplish flowers, and furnishes the true Jalap tubers of commerce. These are roundish, of variable size, the largest being about as large as an orange, and of a dark color. They owe their well-known purgative properties to their resinous ingredients. They can be rapidly increased by cuttings, or by division of tubers in spring, like the Dahlia. Exosmose. That force which causes a viscid fluid lying on the outside of an organic mem- brane to attract watery fluid through it. Exoste'mma. From exo, external, and stemma, a crown ; referring to the exserted stamens. Nat. Ord. Rubiacece. A genus of tropical trees or shrubs, valued more for the medicinal properties they pos- sess, than for the beauty of their foliage or flowers. They are natives of the "West Indies. One of the species, E. Caribceum, has become naturalized in southern Florida. The bark possesses the same active principle as that of the Cinchona. Exotic. Plants that are brought from foreign countries. Not native. Exserted. Where one part protrudes beyond another by which it is surrounded; as the stamens or styles beyond the mouth of some tubular corollas. Eye. A term in gardening for a leaf-bud ; also for the center or the central markings of a flower. Eye-bright. See Euphrasia. F. F a'ba. The old Latin name for the Bean, now included under Vicia, which see. Fabaceae. A sub-order of Leguminosm. Fabia'na. Named after F. Fabiano, a Spaniard. Nat. Ord. Solanaceai. A small genus of half-hardy evergreen, heath-like shrubs. F. imbricata, the best known species, is a neat evergreen shrub of compact habit, densely covered, during the spring months, with pure white tubular flowers. Propagated by seeds or from cuttings. Fadye'nia. Named after Dr. Fadyen, author of a Flora of Jamaica. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacem. F. prolifera, the only species, is a curious Fern, a native of the West Indies. It grows but a few inches in height ; the fronds have netted veins, and are remarbable for the large size of the sori. It was introduced from Jamaica in 1843, and is occasionally found in choice collections. Propagated by spores. Feecula. The farinaceous matter which forms starch, etc. Fage'lia. Named after Fagel, a botanist. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. A genus of green-house evergreen, twining, herbaceous plants, found in South Africa and Abyssinia. The leaves somewhat resemble those of Phaseolus, but are smaller. Their flowers are pea-shaped, yellow, and borne on long axillary racemes. Young plants are ob- tained from seeds. Fagopy'rum. Buckwheat. From phago, to eat, and pyros, wheat ; seeds edible. Nat. Ord. Polygonacece. F. esculentum, the only species worthy of notice, is our common buckwheat, which see. Fa'gus. The Beech. From phago, to eat ; in early ages the nuts of the Beech-tree were used as food. Nat. Ord. Cupuliferm. A small genus of hardy deciduous trees, re- markable for their graceful and symmetrical habit of growth, and their great size and beauty, which render them objects of admira- tion, whether in their native woods, or when planted on the lawn for shade. F. ferruginea, the American Beech, is one of the tallest and most majestic of our forest trees. It grows most abundantly in the Middle and Western States.though common east of the Alleghanies, attaining its greatest size on the banks of the Ohio, where the trees are frequently found 100 feet high, with a diameter from three to four feet ; its foliage is superb, and its general appearance magnificent. The sexes are borne on different branches of the same tree. The AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 151 FAI male flowers are borne in pendulous, globular heads, the female flowers are small, and of a greenish color. It is so abundant as often to constitute extensive forests, the finest of which grow on fertile, level, or gently sloping lands, with a humid surface. The European Beech, F. sylvatica, is almost identical with our native species. The Weeping Beech, F. sylvatica pendula, is one of the most curious and beautiful of lawn trees. The original tree stands in the park of Baron de Mau, at Beersel, Belgium. "The trunk is three and half to four feet in diameter, and grows in a twisted form to a height of twelve feet to fifteen feet, with an appearance of being pressed down by an immense weight. The branches cover an area nearly a 100 feet in diameter. Its history is curious. Some sixty years ago the baron's gardener was planting an avenue of Beech trees, and the baron, ob- serving a very crooked specimen, directed to have it thrown out, but the gardener planted it in a corner of the grounds little visited, where it grew to be one of the most beautiful and singular freaks of sylvan nature." — Scott. The Purple-Leaved Beech, F. purpurea, now so popular for lawn decoration, is a sport from the common Beech, found in a German forest. The Copper-colored Beech, F. cuprea, is a sub- variety of the Purple Beech. The Fern and Cut-leaved Beeches are very ornamental varieties, the leaves resembling the fronds of a Fern. There are varieties with variegated foliage. They are all varieties of F. sylvatica. Fair Maids of France. Ranunculus aconitifolius flore-pleno, Saxifraga granulata, and Achillea Ptarmica. Fairy Fingers. Digitalis purpurea. Fairy Flax. Linum catharticum. Fairy Lily. See Zephyranthes. Fairy Rings. Green circles or parts of circles seen in pastures, and produced by the peculiar mode of growth of several species of Agarics and other Fungi. Falcate, Falciform. Plane and curved in any degree, with parallel edges, like the blade of a sickle ; as the pod of Medicagofalcata. False Acacia. The common Yellow Locust, Robinia Pseudacacia. False Asphodel. A popular name of the genus Tofieldia, small flowering Liliaceous plants. False Dragon-head. Physostegia virginica. False Fox-Glove. Gerardia flava. False Hellebore. See Veratrum. False Honeysuckle. A popular name of our native Azaleas. False Indigo. See Amorpha. False Mistletoe. American Mistletoe. Pho- radendronflavescens. False Red Top. A popular name of Poa serotina, because of its resemblance to Agrostis vulgaris, the true Red Top Grass. False Solomon's Seal. See Smilacina. False Spikenard. See Smilacina racemosa. Family. A synonym for " Order." Fan Palm See Corypha. Farada'ya. Named in honor of Michael Faraday, the celebrated chemist. Nat. Ord. Verbenacece. FEN A small genus of tall climbing glabrous plants, with showy white flowers, borne in corymbose panicles, natives of Australia, Java, and the Pacific Islands. Several species have been introduced, but have not yet flowered in cultivation. Farfu'gium grande. See Ligularia. Farinaceous. Having the texture of flour, as the albumen of Wheat. Farinose. Covered with a white, mealy sub- stance, as the leaves of the Auricula, Primula farinosa. Farkle-berry. A local name for one of the Cranberries, Vaccinium arboreum. Fasciated. When a stem becomes much flat- tened, instead of retaining its usual cylin- drical figure, as in the Cockscomb, the Lilium monstrosum, etc. Fastigiate. Tapering to a narrow point, pyra- midal ; as where many like parts are parallel, and point upwards, as the branches of Populus fastigiata. Fat Hen. A popular name for Chenopodium album, Fa'tsia. Derived from the Japanese name of one of the species. Nat. Ord. Araliaceas. A genus consisting of a few evergreen shrubs, natives of Japan, China, and north- west America. It is well represented by the Aralia Japonica or A. Sieboldii of gardens, which is now Fatsia Japonica, and Aralia papy- rifera, the Chinese Rice-paper plant, now F. papyrifera, both of which are very ornamental and useful decorative plants. Two variegated varieties of F. Japonica, one with white and the other with rich yellow markings, are highly prized for green-house and house deco- ration. Feathered Columbine. Hum. Thalictrum aquilegifo- Feather Foil, or Water Violet. Hottonia in- flata. Feather Geranium. Jerusalem Oak. Popular names for Chenopodium Botrys. Feather Grass. See Stipa pennata. Feather- veined. Where the veins of a leaf spring from the mid-rib at an acute angle. Fedia olitoria. A synonym for Valerianella olitoria (Corn Salad). Fe'ea. In honor of M. Fee, Professor of Botany at Strasburg. Nat. Ord. Polypodiaceaz. A small genus of interesting little Ferns found in Guiana and the West Indies. They require to be grown in a very warm, moist atmosphere. Fennel. See Fceniculum. Giant. See Ferula. Fenugreek. See Trigonella. Fe'nzlia. Named in honor of Dr. Fenzl, author of a monograph on AlsinacecB. Nat. Ord. Polemoniacem. A genus of beautiful dwarf California hardy annuals. They bear a profusion of delicate, rosy-tinted flowers, with yellow throat, sur- rounded with dark-colored dots. F. dianthir flora is a very dwarf and closely tufted species, keeping in flower the whole summer, making it desirable for small beds or edgings. It is alsoTery pretty for window gardens. This genus is now by many botanists included under Gilia. 152 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS FEE Pern. Adder's. Polypodium vulgare. Adder's Tongue. Ophioglossum vulgatum. American Grape. Botrichium lunarioides. Australian Tree. Dicksonia antartica. Beech. Polypodium Phegopteris. Bird's-nest. Thamnopteris nidus (Asplenium). Brake, or Bracken. Pteris aquilina. Bristle. The genus Trichomanes. Buckler. The genus Lastrea. Chain. The genus Woodwardia. Chignon. Cibotium regale. Christmas Shield. Aspidium acrostichoides. Cinnamon. Osmunda cinnamomea. Climbing Snake's-tongue. Lygodium scandens. Deer. Lomaria spicant (Blechnum). Elk's Horn. Platycerium alcicorne. Filmy. A name applied to those kinds which have pellucid or transparent fronds, as Hy- menophyllum, Todea and Trichomanes. Haresfoot. The genus Davallia. Hartford. Lygodium palmatum. Hart's-tongue. The genus Scolopendrium. Japan Climbing. Lygodium scandens. Japan Haresfoot. Davallia Mariesii. Killarney. Trichomanes radicans. Lady. Athyrium Filix-fcemina. Maiden Hair. Many of the genus Adiantum. Maiden Hair. American. Adiantum pedatum. Moon. Botrychium Lunaria. Oak. Polypodium Dryopteris. Oregon Cliff-Brake. Pellma densa. Oregon Bock-Brake. Allosorus achrostichoides. Parsley. Allosorus or Cryptogramma crispus. Pod. Ceratopteris thalictroides. Sensitive. Onoclea sensibilis. Shield. The genus Aspidium. Stag's Horn. Platycerium grande and other species. Sweet. Myrrhis odorata and Comptonia asplen- ifolia. Tree. Various species of Dicksonia, Alsophila, Cyathea, etc. Virginian Rattlesnake. Botrychium Virginicum. Walking-leaf. Camptosorus rhizophyllus. Water. Osmunda regalis. Fernery. See Wardian Case. Ferns. From their extreme beauty and diver- sity as well as from their general adaptability in arrangements with flowering and orna- mental-foliaged plants, Ferns, when well- grown are indispensable and possess peculiar attractions. As their management gets better understood, their popularity increases, and the now almost universal use of plants, and especially of cut fronds, intermixed in floral decorations, has led to the production of a few of the most suitable species in immense quantities. The earlier modern botanists knew little about ferns, and Linneeus, who is regarded as the father of modern botany, seems to have supposed that in one sense they had flowers as other plants had, the little brown dots on the back of the fronds being supposed to be seeds of the same char- acter as ordinary flowering plants. During the last fifty or more years, many discoveries have been made about Ferns, most notably that these little dusty brown dots are not really seeds but little bud ferns. When they fall or are sown in damp places they open and form little flat green membranes, and in this membrane the real flowers appear, and all the processes common to flowering plants are car- ried out. FEE In scientific treatises on ferns, all these pro- cesses of fern-growth and their functions, are given different names from what they would have in other plants ; thus the germinating green blade is called a prothallium, and the mass that would be the stamens in a flowering plant is the anthevidia, While the pistil is the archegonium. There is this difference, how- ever, that while flowering plants after fertili- zation retain the germ, in what we call a seed, for some time before it grows, in the fern the germ commences at once to grow and make a little plant. This has some bearing on the raising of hybrid ferns. New varieties are obtained by sowing the spores of different forms of the same species together, for as in flowering plants it is only in case of very close relationship that intermixture is possi- ble. Those who have experimented and ob- served closely, tell us that the chances of in- termixture is not great, still this is the only way to get new varieties. By taking the spores from the crested portion of ' ' Crested Ferns" the certainty of getting crested seedlings is much increased. Eaising Ferns from spores is a very inter- esting operation requiring considerable care and attention to accomplish successfully. They are best sown in pots or shallow pans that have been half filled with broken rubble, the remainder being filled to within half an inch of the top with a finely sifted compost of loam, peat and sand. As the fern spores are extremely minute the soil should be watered and allowed to drain before sowing as by watering afterwards the spores might be washed away. Scatter thinly over the sur- face, pieces of glass being placed over the tops of the pots which should then be stood in saucers of water thus obviating the necessity of watering overhead. They should be kept well shaded at all times, and when the spores are sufficiently grown to be visible as very minute plants, they should be taken up in small patches, and pricked off carefully, these in turn when they get established and fit to handle should be divided and potted off singly. The most popular species Adiantums, Pteris, etc. , are raised from spores in immense quantities. Many others as Nephrolepis, Davallia, etc., that form several crowns or have creeping rhizomes are easily increased by division. A few species produce small bulbils along, or at the end of the frond, and these, if removed and placed on the soil eventually form plants. Trunks of Tree Ferns are imported in large numbers, both from the West Indies and Australia, and a large proportion generally succeed. Young plants may be raised from spores, and such quick-growing species as Dicksonia, Alsophila, etc., soon make elegant plants for decorative purposes. Hardy Ferns succeed best when planted on rock- work or in a shady situation sheltered from high winds ; as there is so much diversity both in their size and habit, particular attention should be directed to their arrangement, placing the evergreen and deciduous species at irregular intervals, so that the whole may be more or less furnished at all seasons. Fero'nia. The Wood-apple or Elephant-apple of India, closely allied to the Orange. F. ele- phantum, the only species of this genus of AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 153 FER Rutacem, is common throughout India, Bur- mah, Ceylon and Java, and forms a large tree, yielding a hard heavy wood, of great strength, but not durable. The leaves have the odor of Anise, and the fruit is edible. Increased by cuttings of the ripe young wood. Introduced from Coromandel, in 1804. Perra'ria. Named after Ferrari, an Italian bot- anist. Nat. Ord. IridacecB. A genus of dwarf bulbs from the Cape of Good Hope, producing very curious, oddly- colored flowers, perhaps more singular than beautiful. They are of easy culture, requir- ing to be kept dry during winter. They should be started in the green-house in Feb- ruary, in small pots and as soon as they com- mence growth, given plenty of air, sunlight, and water, and they will come into flower in April. They will grow finely in a cold frame if carefully protected from frost during win- ter, and are increased freely by offsets. In- troduced in 1800. Ferruginous. Iron-colored ; rusty light brown, with a little mixture of red. Fertile. Producing fruit. Also, capable of ef- fecting the process of fertilization ; or of pro- ducing perfect seeds, as the anthers when filled with pollen ; fertilized. Fertilization. The reproductive function by which the action of the pollen renders the ovule fertile. Fertilizers. This word is generally used only in connection with commercial fertilizers, or concentrated fertilizers, though, of course, in its full significance it refers to any sub- stance suitable for the food of plants. The best known fertilizers of commerce are Pe- ruvian Guano and Bone Dust, though there are numbers of others, such as Fish Guano, Dry Blood Fertilizer, Blood and Bone Fertil- izer, with the various brands of Superphos- phates, all of more or less value for fertilizing purposes. It is useless to go over the list, and we will confine ourselves to the relative merits of pure Peruvian Guano and pure Bone Dust. Guano at $65 per ton we consider relatively equal in value to Bone Dust at $40 per ton, for in the lower priced article we find we have to increase the quantity to produce the same result. Whatever kind of concen- trated fertilizer is used, we find it well repays the labor to prepare it in the following man- ner before it is used on the land : to every bushel of Guano or Bone Dust add three bushels of either leaf mould (from the woods), well pulverized dry muck, sweepings from a paved street, stable manure so rotted as to be like pulverized muck, or, if neither of these can be obtained, any loamy soil will do ; but in every case the material to mix the fertili- zers with must be fairly dry and never in a . condition of mud ; the meaning of the opera- tion being, that the material used is to act as a temporary absorbent for the fertilizer. The compost must be thoroughly mixed, and if Guano is used, it being sometimes lumpy, it must be broken up to dust before being mixed with the absorbent. The main object of this operation is for the better separation and di- vision of the fertilizer, so that, when applied to the soil, it can be more readily distributed. Our experiments have repeatedly shown that FER this method of using concentrated fertilizers materially increases their value probably twenty per cent. The mixing should be done a few months previous to spring, and it should, after being mixed, be packed away in barrels, and kept in some dry shed or cellar until wanted for use. Thus mixed, it is par- ticularly beneficial on lawns or other grass lands. The quantity of concentrated fertil- izer to be used is often perplexing to begin- ners. We give the following as the best rules we know, all derived from our own practice in growing fruits, flowers, and vegetables : Tak- ing Guano as a basis, we would recommend for all vegetables or fruit crops, if earliness and good quality are desired, the use of not less than 1,200 pounds per acre (an acre con- tains 4,840 square yards, and cultivators for private use can easily estimate from this the quantity they require for any area), mixed with two tons of either of the materials recom- mended. If Bone Dust is used, about one ton per acre should be used, mixed with three tons of soil or the other materials named. When used alone without being mixed with the absorbent, it should be sown on the soil after plowing or digging, about thick enough to just color the surface, or about as thick as sand or sawdust is sown on a floor, and then thoroughly harrowed in if plowed, or, if dug, chopped in with a rake. This quantity is used broadcast by sowing on the ground after plowing and deeply and thoroughly harrowing in, or, if in small gardens, forked in lightly with the prongs of a garden fork or long- toothed steel rake. When applied in hills or drills, from 100 to 300 pounds should be used to the acre, according to the distance of these apart, mixing with soil, etc., as already di- rected. When well-rotted stable manure is procur- able at a cost not to exceed $2 or $3 per ton, whether from horses or cows, it is preferable to any concentrated fertilizer. Rotted stable manure, to produce full crops, should be spread on the ground not less than three inches thick, and should be thoroughly mixed with the soil by plowing or spading. The refuse hops from breweries form an ex- cellent fertilizer, at least one-half more valu- able, bulk for bulk, than stable manure. Other excellent fertilizers are obtained from the scrapings or shavings from horn or whale- bone manufactories. The best way to make these quickly available is to compost them with hot manure in the proportion of one ton of refuse horn or whalebone with fifteen tons of manure. The heated manure extracts the oil, which is intermingled with the whole. The manure from the chicken or pigeon house is very valuable, and when composted as directed for Bone Dust and Guano, has at least one-third their value. Castor oil pom- ace is also valuable. Ashes. The ashes of vegetable matter con- sist of such elements as are always required for their perfect maturity, and it is evident they must furnish one of the best saline manures which can be supplied for their growth ; they contain in fact every element, and generally in the right proportions, for insuring a full and rapid growth. The annual exhaustion of salts from a large crop of grain, roots, or grass, is from 180 to 250 pounds per acre, and the aggregate of a few years will so 154 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS FEE far impoverish the soil in one or more of the principles necessary to sustain a luxuriant vegetation that it will cease to yield remuner- ating returns. Ashes are among the best of fertilizers for Onions; a handful to the hill before corn is hoed will give good returns. They are also excellent for top dressing grass- land, and as there is no danger of their con- taining weed-seeds they are valuable for top dressing lawns. The quantity used should be about the same as bone dust, which see. Niteate op Soda, and Sulphate op Am- monia, are both powerful fertilizers, are used to a considerable extent, and are deemed es- pecially valuable to grain crops. Nitrate of Soda cannot be kept too dry as it attracts mois- • ture the same as common Salt does and may be applied at the rate of about two and one-half hundred weight to the acre as a top dressing in moist weather or just before rain. Owing to its nature it is more suited to hot dry soils than Sulphate of Ammonia, which, though not so quick in its action, is more lasting in its effects, and is often used as a supplement- ary top dressing to the former. Poudbette is the name given to a commer- cial fertilizer, the composition of which is night soil and dried swamp muck or charcoal dust as an absorbent. It is sold at about $12 to $15 per ton, and at that price may be equal in value, if too much of the absorbing material is not used, to Bone Dust at $40 per ton. Salt has little or no value as a fertilizer, ex- cept as a medium of absorbing moisture. For experience shows that soils impregnated by a saline are no more fertile than those inland out of the reach of such an atmosphere. See Manures. Fe'rula. Giant Fennel. From /mo, to strike, the stems are used as rods. Nat. Ord. Um- belliferce. A genus of very showy, hardy herbaceous plants, relatives of southern Europe, north- ern Africa, and central and western Asia. They are admirable plants for growing near water, or on banks, or margins of lawns, where their deep green elegant foliage is shown to the best advantage. The two most showy species are F. communis, and F. Tingi- tana. They are propagated by seeds, or by divisions of the root. Fescue Grass. See Festuca. Festu'ca. A genus containing some of the best pasture grasses. F. glauca is a very hand- some ornamental grass, which, though hardy, is very suitable for the green-house and the sitting-room. Fetid Horehound. See Ballota, Fetticus. See Valerianella. Fever Bush. A local name of the Lindera; given for the supposed medicinal properties of the shrub. Feverfew. See Pyrethrum Parthenium. Fever Tree, or Fever Gum-Tree. Eucalyptus globulus. Fever Weed. Gerardia pedicularia. Fibre, Elementary. That thread which is turned round the interior of the tubes that are called spiral vessels, or of any similar kind of tissue. FIL Fibrous. Containing a great proportion of woody fibre, as the rind of a Cocoanut ; com- posed of fibres. Fica'ria. Fig-wort. From ficus, a fig ; in refer- ence to the fig-shaped little tubers of the root. Nat. Ord. Ranunculaceoe. A hardy herbaceous perennial with bright yellow flowers, closely resembling the Ranun- culus, to which it is allied, the only difference being in the shape of the petals. It is one of the earliest spring flowers in the English woods or waste places. Ficoi'deaae. A large natural order of small shrubs, under-shrubs, or herbs, containing over 400 species, natives chiefly of tropical and sub-tropical regions. Tetragonia (the New Zealand Spinach) and Mesembryanthemum are the best known genera ; indeed, the order is called MesembryanthemacecB by some botanists. Fi'cus. Fig-tree. The Fig-tree has nearly the same name in all the European languages, and is supposed to be derived from the Hebrew name f eg. Nat. Ord. Urticacece. A genus of trees, some of which require to be grown in the hot-house. It contains sev- eral valuable species, especially the India Rubber tree (F. elastica), and the Banyan tree (F. Indica) ; the foliage of all of them is very imposing, and their culture is of the easiest description, requiring heat and plenty of water in their growing season. F. elastica, if culti- vated in a humid atmosphere, such as that of an Orchid-house, will emit roots from its stem and branches, and attach itself to any contig- uous object, such as a wall, in the manner of an epiphyte. This is the India Rubber tree of commerce. It is much valued as a decora- tive plant for rooms. A very effective variety with golden-edged leaves has been lately introduced, the golden band about an inch wide, contrasting beautifully with the glossy green of the center of the leaf. F. Parcelli has bright-green serrated leaves, irregularly blotched with dark green and ivory white. It forms a very neat and ornamental decorative plant. F. Carica, the cultivated Fig, is sup- posed to be a native of Caria, in Asia. It has, however, been so long under cultivation throughout southern Europe that its nativity is lost sight of. The fruit can be grown here without artificial heat, an ordinary pit alone being sufficient protection in winter ; or the plants can be laid down and covered up with six inches of soil in November and uncovered in April, and will thus withstand our severest northern winters. The Fig is generally hardy south of Washington. Propagated by cuttings or layers. Fiddle-Wood. See Citharexylum. Fig Marigold. See Mesembryanthemum. Fig-Tree. The genus Ficus, which see. Adam's. Musa paradisiaca. Balsam, of the West Indies. Several species of Clusia. Creeping. Ficus stipulata. Devil's, or Infernal. Argemone Mexicana. Mangrove. Rhizophora Mangle. Sacred. Ficus religiosa. Fig-wort. The genus Scrophularia ; also Ficaria, which see. Cape. Phygelius capensis. Filamentose. Thready. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 155 TIL Filices. One of the principal groups of Crypto- gams, commonly called Ferns, consisting of herbaceous or arborescent perennial, very rarely annual, plants, with fibrous roots, or creeping root-stalks. Those of an arborescent or tree habit have trunks varying from two or three to sixty or eighty feet in height, and formed of the consolidated bases of the fronds, surrounding a soft central mass of tissue. Many schemes have been proposed for the classification of Ferns, but that seems to be preferable which is based on the modi- fications of the vascular system in conjunc- tion with the fructification. All Ferns may be referred to one of the groups Ophioglossacece, Marattiacece, or Polypodiacece, of which the first two, sometimes called pseudo-Ferns, are very limited, while the latter, containing the true Ferns, includes the greater portion of all the known species. There are about seventy-five genera, and about 2,500 species. The follow- ing are some of the principal and most exten- sive genera : Adiantum, Asplenium, Aspi- dium, Polypodium, and Pteris. Filiform. Cylindrical and slender, like a thread. Filipendulous. "Where tuberous swellings are developed in the middle or at the extremities of filiform rootlets as in Spiraea Jilipendula. Fimbriate. Fringed. Fiorin or Fiorin-Grass. (Butter Grass.) Agrostis 8tolonifera. Fir. A general name for various species of Abies, Picea, and Pinus. Balm of Gilead, or Balsam. Abies balsamea. Black Spruce. Abies nigra. Douglas Spruce. Abies (Pseudo-tsuga)Douglasii. Hemlock Spruce. Tsuga Canadensis. Japan Silver. Picea firma. Norway Spruce. Abies excelsa. Parasol, or Umbrella. The genus Sciadopitys. Pitch, or Siberian Silver. Picea Pichta. Sacred Silver. Pinus religiosa. Scotch. Pinus sylvestris. Silver. Picea pectinata. Fire Cracker Plant. See Cuphea. Fire Pink. A local name of Silene Virginica. Fire Tree. See Nuytsia. Of Queensland. See Stenocarpus. Fire- Weed. A name given to Erechites hieraci- folia, because of its appearance on new grounds, when brush has been burned. It is a coarse worthless weed, though not apt to be troublesome. Firming the Soil. See Sowing and Planting, Use of the Feet in. Fish Bone Thistle. Chamapeuce Casabonm. Fish Guano. See Fertilizer. Fish-Tail Palm. See Caryota. Fissus. Divided half way usually into a deter- minate number of segments. We say, bifidus, split in two, trifidus, in three, and so on ; or multifidus, when the segments are very numerous. Fistular, Fistulous. This is said of a cylin- drical or terete body which is hollow, but closed at each end, as the leaves and stem of the Onion. Fitto'nia. Named in honor of E. and 8. M. Fit- ton, authors of " Conversations on Botany," Nat. Ord. Acanthaceoz. FLO A genus of trailing perennials with bril- liantly marked leaves, natives of Peru and requiring Stove-house treatment. They are excellent plants for the Wardian case and use- ful also for planting on the surface of pots or tubs in which large plants or other decorative plants are grown, and also for forming narrow borders to the walks in heated structures. F. argyroneura, has oval leaves of a vivid green, traversed by a net-work of pure white veins ; other species have the midrib and veins deep red or carmine. They are easily increased by cuttings. Syn. Gymnostachyum. Five Fingers. See Potentilla. Flabelliform. Fan-shaped. Flacourtia. Named after Etienne de Flacourt, a botanist and director of the French East India Company in 1648. The typical genus of Flacourtiacew, comprising a few species of fruit-bearing, thorny trees or shrubs, natives of tropical Asia, Africa, and America. The fruits of several of the species are used in India, and have a pleasant sub-acid flavor, when perfectly ripe, but the unripe fruit is exceedingly astringent. The young shoots and leaves of F. cataphracta are used medici- nally by the native Indian doctors as a cure for diarrhoea. The species are rarely seen in cultivation. Flacourtiaceee. (Bixacese.) A natural order of shrubs or small trees, with alternate leaves, often marked with transparent dots. They are natives, principally, of the East and West Indies ; a few species are found at the Cape of Good Hope, and one or two in New Zealand. Some of the plants yield edible fruits, others are bitter and astringent. The order includes about twenty-five genera and 150 species. Flag. A general name for the genus Iris. Yellow, or Water. Iris Pseudo-acorus. Flagelliform. Flexible, narrow, and tapering, like the thong of a whip, as the runners of many plants. Flame Flower. On*! of the popular names of Tritoma. Flame Lily. See Pyrolirion. Flame Tree, or Tree of Fire. See Nuytsia. Flamingo Plant. Popular name of Anthurium Scherzerianum . Flavescent. A pure pale yellow. Flax. See Linum. New Zealand, or Flax Lily. Phormium tenax. Fleabane. See Erigeron. Fleur-de-Luce. See Iris. Flexuose. Zig-zag; having a wavy direction, gently bending alternately inward and out- ward. Floating Heart. See Limnanthemum. Floccose. Covered with little tufts of hair, like wool. Flora. (The goddess of flowers.) The aggre- gate of all the species of plants inhabiting a particular country. Floral. Of or belonging to the flower. Floral Envelopes. The calyx and corolla, one or both. Florets. When many small flowers are collected in clusters or heads, each flower is called a floret. The florets of the disk are those which 156 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS FLO occupy the center of the head of a Composite ; while florets of the ray occupy the circumfer- ence. Florida Bean. See Entada. Florida Moss. See Tillandsia. Florists' Flowers. These are denned as, "Flowers which, by their beauty, or fra- grance, power to produce permanent varieties, and facility of cultivation, are so largely in de- mand as to render them especially worthy of cultivation as an article of commerce." The term is most generally applied to that large section of green-house and hardy plants, which have originally descended from a limited number of species, but which, either by cultivation, careful selection, or systematic hybridization the "Florist," has caused to "break" from the original species into varieties much superior to the original, it may be in the habit of the plant or variety of color and form of the flower. The variety of plants included among Florists' flowers, is annually extending, as genera that have hitherto been neglected are being brought under the same influences with a view of ob- taining similar results. Perfection in habit of plant, and in form of flower, with distinct coloring, are points always aimed at and only those flowers which are most desirable in these respects, should be used for hybridizing or seeding purposes. Seeds having a ten- dency to produce varieties of an inferior quality, it is necessary to perpetuate those good sorts already secured, by cuttings or offsets, as the case may be ; the advantages of the improvements effected are thus available for all, in the select varieties now in general cultivation, as well as those now annually distributed. Among the best known examples of the Florist's success are the Auricula, Chrysanthemum, Carnation, Dahlia, Fuchsia, Gladiolus, Pelargonium, both show and Zonal, Tulip, Hyacinth, Verbena, Rose, etc. Flower. That assemblage of organs in a plant, of which the stamens or pistils, or both, form part. Flower Border. See Border. Flower-de-Luce. See Iris. Flower Fence. See Poinciana. Flower of the Holy Spirit. See Peristeria. Flowering Ash. See Ornus. Flowering Fern. See Osmunda. Flowering Grass. Anomatheca cruenta. Flowering Rush. See Butomus. Flues. Single and double. See Heating. Fluitans. Floating on the surface of water. Fluvial, Fluviatile. Of or belonging to the water. Fly Honeysuckle. Lonicera Xylosteum. Fly Orchis. Ophrys muscifera. Fly Poison. Amianthium muscwtoxicum. Fly-Trap. American. Apocynum androswmi- folium. Venus's. Dion&a muscipula. Fceni'culum. Fennel. The old Latin name. Nat. Ord. Umbelliferm. F. vulgare. the common Fennel, is a native of southern Europe and western Asia, and is usually found on dry soils near the sea. FOR It is an aromatic plant of perennial duration, and is propagated both by offsets, division of the root, and by seed. F. dulce, the Sweet Fennel, is generally considered a variety of the preceding ; but it differs in being a smaller plant, producing larger seeds, and in its flow- ering earlier. The leaves are used in sauces and for garnishing, and the seeds are em- ployed in confectionary and for flavoring liquors. Foliaceous. Having the form of leaves. Foliage Plants. A popular term, though an incorrect one, given to distinguish such plants as are used for decorative purposes for the beauty of their foliage rather than for the beauty of their flowers. It is more particu- larly used for such plants as are used for massing in color ; for example, the Achyran- thes, Centaureas (Dusty Millers), Pyrethrum aureum (Golden Feather), Coleus, and plants of that class used in "ribbon line" bedding, are called "foliage" plants; though, among plants for inside decoration, the Crotons, Dracaenas, Pandanads, Fancy Caladiums, etc., are sometimes so named; but the proper designation for all such plants, whether used for outside or inside decoration, is "Orna- mental-leaved Plants," or "Ornamental-foli- aged Plants." Foliate. Clothed with leaves. Foliole. A leaflet ; the secondary divisions of a compound leaf. Foliose. Covered closely with leaves. Follicle. An inflated seed-vessel; as that of the Colutea. Fool's Parsley. See Mthusa. Fontane'sia. A Syrian shrub of the Olive fam- ily, named in honor of M. Desfontaines, an eminent French botanist. It is an orna- mental, hardy sub-evergreen shrub, resem- bling the common Privet, but with rough bark and graceful, slender drooping branches. Flowers creamy-yellow in axillary racemes. Introduced in 1787. Forbidden Fruit. Citrus Paradisi. Of London. A variety of the Shaddock. Citrus decumana. Of Paris. The sweet skinned Orange; a variety of Citrus Aurantium. Forcing Fruits, Flowers and Vegetables. As this operation has to be conducted through- out the winter and early spring months the greatest care Is necessary in practice to ob- tain satisfactory results, more especially as they have to be procured under conditions that are unnatural to the plants at the time, in consequence of their having had an insuffi- cient season of rest. The preparation of plants for forcing is one of the most important points, and only those that have the wood thoroughly ripened, should be chosen. In the early stages of the operation, heat should be applied very gradually, beginning with a little closer, warmer atmosphere than that allowed during the resting period. A temperature not exceeding 50° to 55° will suit a large num- ber of plants to start with, but even this is too high for some subjects. Most plants will bear more heat after the buds swell and have commenced growing, than they will pre- viously. In very early forcing all the sun- shine and light possible should be admitted, «»3&3i hrV- ■■*'.-:■'■*■'•:') ,'K>^\;^ forest trees throughout the United States. FRE They are also common in Europe, Asia, and in the north of Africa. The more common and important of the native species are the follow- ing : The White Ash, F. Americana, is a beautiful tree, with trunk perfectly straight, and usually undivided to the height of thirty to forty feet. Solitary trees are often very beautiful, being symmetrical and globular, with dense foliage of a dull bluish-green color. This species delights in a warm, rich soil, and is rarely found in its natural state in any other. The timber of this species is valuable in the mechanic arts, where strength and durability are required. The Black Ash, F. sambucifolia, is a tree of medium size, usually found in wet or swampy situations. It is of but little value as an ornamental tree, and the timber has little value except to split into rails for fencing. The other native species are of no special interest. The English Ash, F. excelsior, is almost identical with our White Ash. From it several varieties have origin- ated ; one of weeping habit, F. excelsior pen- dula, a very beautiful and desirable tree for the lawn. Some of the varieties with golden, and some with variegated foliage, are being extensively planted, and are strongly recom- mended for suburban grounds. Free. Not adhering to anything else ; not adnace to any other body. Free'sia. Derivation of name not given. Nat. Ord. Iridacece. A small genus of handsome bulbous plants from the Cape of Good Hope, introduced previously to 1815, at which time they were grown in English gardens, and included in the genus Gladiolus. The Garden says : "According to Mr. Baker, whose labors on the Iris have rendered their study compar- atively easy, the genus Freesia has been included in Gladiolus and Tritonia, as well as having a goodly number of specific names. These are all now reduced to two species, viz., Freesia refracta and F. Leichtlinii. The for- mer varies considerably, judging from the earlier illustrations of it, which, if correct, would seem to include F. Leichtlinii. F. refracta has pale yellow flowers, sometimes with a greenish, sometimes a purplish tint, while its variety, F. r. alba, has flowers of the purest white, with two orange-yel- low flowers on the lower segments. Some- times these blotches are absent." F. refracta alba is the only species much cultivated ; this, from its pure white flowers, that are produced in the greatest abundance during the winter season, is a valuable plant to grow for cut flowers. The flowers are produced on slender stalks, just overtopping the foliage, and num- ber from three to six in a loose cluster. They are tubular, thimble-shaped, about one and a half inches in length ; their perfume is deli- cious, sufficiently powerful to be perceptible at a distance from the plant. They are extremely useful as cut flowers, for which the elegant manner in which they are borne on the stalks admirably adapts them. They can be easily grown in the ordinary green-house, the only care required being to have the bulbs well ripened before drying off, after flowering. It is best to put several bulbs in a pot or pan. If the latter is used, put eight or ten in an eight-inch pan. They like a fibrous soil, moderately rich, and need considerable rest. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 159 FRE Bulbs that have flowered in January should go to rest in April, and remain dry until November. They increase rapidly by offsets, and can be grown freely from seed, which should be sown soon as ripe ; bulbs from seed will flower the second year. Fremo'ntia. Named in honor of Major- General John C. Fremont, who discovered it in the northern part of the Sierra Nevada. Nat. Ord. Sterculiacece. F. Californica, the only species, is a decidu- ous shrub from four to ten feet high, some- what resembling the ordinary Fig-tree. The flowers are very handsome, bright yellow, bell-shaped, and are produced on short, spur- like branches. Propagated by cuttings or from seed. Introduced in 1851. French Bean. See Bean. French Honeysuckle. See Hedysarwm. French Marigold. See Tagetes. French Mulberry. Callicarpa Americana. French Willow. Epilobium ang-ustifolium. Fresh-water Soldier. Stratioides aloides. Freycine'tia. Named after Admiral Freyeinet, a French circumnavigator. A genus of Pan- danacece, consisting of climbing trees, natives of the Indian Archipelago, Norfolk Island, New Zealand, etc. The species have the habit of Pandanus, and require the same general treatment. Increased by offsets. Fringed. The same as fimbriate. Fringe-Flower. Schizanthus retvsvs. Fringe-Tree. See Chionanthus. Fritilla'ria. Fritillary, Guinea-hen Flower. From fritillus, a chess-board ; referring to the checkered flowers of some species. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. Showy bulbs for the border, mostly attain- ing a height of from two to three feet, though F. meleagris and its variations are dwarf. This species, and one or two others like it, have had much attention paid them by the continental florists, who have succeeded in obtaining many beautiful varieties by seed, and now these flowers occupy a prominent place in their catalogues. They delight in very rich soil, frequently dug and well pul- verized previous to planting. The bulbs should be planted early in the autumn, cover- ing them with about three inches of earth. In the blooming season, should the weather prove dry, the ground must be frequently well soaked with water, that the growth may be sufficiently vigorous, or the flowers of the following season will be deficient. When the stems begin to decay the bulbs should be taken up, but not dried to any extent, it being far preferable to preserve them till the follow- ing planting season in sand or light and par- tially dried earth. F. imperialis is the well- known Crown Imperial, a native of Persia, of which there are several varieties. They will be greatly benefitted by mulching with leaves to the depth of six inches, just before the ground freezes up. They can remain a num- ber of years without taking up, and are prop- agated by division of the bulbs or by seeds, which, however, require from four to six years to become flowering bulbs. Frog-bit. Hydrocharis morsus-ranw and Limno- biwm Spongia. FUC Frondose. Covered with leaves; bearing a great number of leaves. Fronds. The leaves of Palms and Ferns are improperly called fronds. A true frond is a combination of leaf and stem, as in many sea- weeds and liverworts. Frosted. Covered with glittering particles, as if fine dew had been congealed upon it. Frost-Weed. Erigeron Philadelphicus and Heli- anthemum Canadense. Frozen Plants, Treatment of. When by any mishap the plants, whether in parlor or green- house, become frozen, either at once remove them (taking care not to touch the leaves) to some place warm enough to be just above the point of freezing ; or, if there are too many to do that, get up the fire as rapidly as possible, and raise the temperature. The usual advice is to sprinkle the leaves and shade the plants from the sun. We have never found either remedy of any avail with frozen plants, and the sprinkling is often a serious injury if done before the temperature is above the freezing point. In our experience with thousands of frozen plants, we have tried all manner of expedients, and found no better method than to get them out of the freezing atmosphere as quickly as possible ; and we have also found that the damage is in proportion to the suc- culent condition of the plant and the intensity of the freezing. Just what degree of cold plants in any given condition can endure without injury, we are# unable to state. Plants are often frozen 'so that the leaves hang down, but when thawed out are found to be not at all injured. At another time the same low temperature acting on the same kind of plants may kill them outright if they happen to be growing more thriftily and are full of sap. Much depends upon the temper- ature at which plants have been growing ; for example, we find, if we have had a warm spell in fall when, for a week or so, the tempera- ture has been at sixty-five or seventy degrees at night, with ten or fifteen degrees more in the open air, that a slight frost will kill or greatly injure such half-hardy plants as Car- nations, Geraniums or monthly Roses ; but should the weather be such as to gradually get colder, so that the temperature has been lowered twenty to twenty-five degrees, a slight frost then coming will do little or no injury to such plants. When the frost is pen- etrating into a green-house or room in which plants are kept, and the heating arrangements are inadequate to keep it out, the best thing to do is to cover the plants with paper (news- papers) or sheeting. Thus protected, most plants will be enabled to resist four or five degrees of frost. Paper is rather better than sheeting for this purpose. Fructification. The parts of the flower, or, more properly, the fruit and its parts ; the phenomena which attend the development of the fruit from its first appearance to maturity. The distribution or arrangement of the fruit itself on any plant. Fruit. That part of a plant which consists of the ripened carpels and the parts adhering to them ; the seed vessel with its ripe contents. Fruticose, Frutescent. Shrubby. Fu'chsia. Named after Leonard Fuchs, a cele- brated German botanist. Nat. Ord. Onagracece. 160 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS FUG The best history we have of this interesting genus is from the pen of the Rev. C. A. Johns, in the " Treasury of Botany." He says : "A plausible story has often been printed, which attributes the introduction of the Fuchsia into England to a sailor, whose wife or mother was induced to sell it to Mr. Lee, a nurseryman, who, in the course of the following summer, made a profit of 300 guineas by the transac- tion. This is said to have happened about the close of the last century. It was, however, a hundred years before this time that a monk named Father Plunder discovered the first specimen of the family, which he afterward dedicated to the memory of Leonard Fuchs. This first species was named Fuchsia triphylla flore coccinea, and a description of it is to be found in the works of Plumier, published in 17U3. With the exception of F. excorticata and F. procumbens, which are natives of New Zea- land, all the species belong to the central and southern regions of America, in shady, moist places, in forests, or on lofty mountains of Mexico, Peru and Chili. The number of dis- tinct species at present known is more than fifty, which have been introduced from time to time since the beginning of the present century ; but the varieties most prized by flor- ists date only from the year 1837, when F. fulgens was introduced. The introduction of this species, and soon afterward of F. corymbi- Jlora, F. cordifolia and F. serratifolia, gave to horticulturists the opportunity of hybridizing these long-flowered species with the globose kinds, and the result has been the annual appearance of varieties which, from a garden point of view have surpassed their predeces- sors, to be themselves eclipsed in their turn." The cultivation of the Fuchsia is quite simple. Stock plants should be started in the green- house in November or December, and cuttings taken off as soon as large enough, which will be in ten days or two weeks. In an ordinary propagating house they will be sufficiently rooted in two weeks to pot off; after which the growth is rapid, if given the four essential elements, viz., light, air, heat and water. They require to be re-potted often, never allowing them to get pot-bound if large showy plants are desired. By training up the lead- ing shoot, and keeping it tied to a straight stick, the plant will throw out side shoots in the perfect order required for a graceful, sym- metrical outline. Plants carefully grown in this manner will, by the first of July, fill a twelve-inch pot, which, if placed in a shady situation and liberally watered with liquid manure, will make a plant fully six feet high by autumn, and all the summer be completely covered with flowers. Fugacious. Soon falling off, or perishing very rapidly. Fuliginous. Dirty brown, verging upon black. Fuller's Teazel See Dipsacus Fullonum. Fulvous. Tawny yellow or fox-colored. Fuma'ria. Fumitory. From fumos, smoke ; referring to the disagreeable smell of the plant. Nat. Ord. Fumariacece. A genus of hardy annuals, mostly mere weeds. One or two, however, are very pretty climbers, ornamental when grown along hedge-rows, for their delicate foliage, and small, pinkish white flowers. . FUS Fumaria'ceae. A natural order of herbs with brittle stems, watery juice, alternate, cut, exstipulate leaves, and irregular, unsymme- trical flowers. They are chiefly natives of the temperate regions of the northern hemi- sphere , a few occur at the Cape of Good Hope. They possess a slight bitterness and acridity. There are eighteen known genera and about 160 species ; Fumaria, Dicentra and Corydalis are examples of the order, which is now included by Bentham and Hooker, as a tribe of Papaveracem. Fumigating. See Insects. Fumitory. See Fumaria. Climbing. Adlumia cirrhosa. Function. The peculiar action induced by the agency of vitality upon any part of a living plant, when placed under certain influences. Fundamental. Constituting the essential part of anything ; in a plant, the axis and its ap- pendages. Fundamental organs, the nutri- tive organs essential to the existence of the individual. Funeral Cypress. A common name of Cupres- sus funebris. Fungi Extensive groups of singular plants, known as blights, blasts, mildews and mush- rooms. Funnel-shaped. A calyx or corolla, or other organ, in which the tube is obconical, gradu- ally enlarging upward into the limb, so that the whole resembles a funnel, as in the Con- volvulus or Morning Glory. Fu'nkia. Day Lily. Plantain Lily. Named in honor of Henry Funk, a German cryptogamist. Nat. Ord. Liliacem. A handsome genus of hardy herbaceous plants, with bundled fibrous roots, from Japan. It is nearly allied to Hemerocallis, and some of the species first introduced were included in that genus, which has caused considerable confusion in names. They are remarkable for their neat habit, the fine character of their foliage, and the delicious fragrance of the flowers of some of the species. F. albo-marginata and F. Sieboldiana have beautifully variegated foliage, green and whrtte. As border plants they are very showy and attractive, and to mix with cut flowers for vases the foliage is invaluable. F. sub- cordata, or Japonica, the well-known white Day Lily, is the largest growing of the species. In rich soils they will, in a short time, make immense clumps, that flower freely in August. This species does best in partial shade. They are readily increased by division of the roots, which should be done in early spring. First introduced in 1790. Furcate. Having long terminal lobes, like the prongs of a fork. Furcrae'a. See Fourcroya. Furfuraceous. Scurfy; covered with soft scales, which are easily displaced. Furrowed. Marked by longitudinal channels, as the stem of the Parsnip. Fuscous. Brown, with a grayish or blackish tinge. Furze. See Ulex. Fusiform. Spindle-shaped; thick, tapering to each end, like the root of a long Radish. Sometimes conical roots are called fusiform. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 161 G-. GAG Ga'gea. Named after Sir Thomas Gage, a botanical amateur. Nat. Ord. Liliacem. A genus of hardy little yellow-flowering bulbs, allied to the Tulip. The species are natives of Europe, temperate Asia and northern Africa. The flowers, which are large for the size of the plant, are produced in umbels on stems not more than four inches high. They flower about the same time as the Crocus, should occupy similar places in the garden, and are propagated by offsets. Introduced in 1759. Ga'hnia. Named after H. Gahn, a Swedish bot- anist. Nat. Ord. Cyperacece. A genus of about twenty species of green- house perennial herbs, natives of Australia, New Zealand, China, and the South Pacific Islands. G. aspera, is a very ornamental plant of Arundo-like habit, with bright green, channelled, wavy, lanceolate leaves. Intro- duced from Fiji in 1887. Gailla'rdia. Named after M. Gaillard de Maren- tonneau, a French patron of botany. Nat. Ord. Composite. A genus of beautiful half-hardy annuals, natives of South Carolina and southward. They are exceedingly showy, and well adapted for garden decoration. The seed germinates slowly, and in order to get plants to flower the whole summer it should be sown in the green-house in February. The plants may be put out in the open border when all danger from frost is over. Cuttings may be made in the fall and grown on in the green-house during the winter. G. Richard- soni, a species of late introduction, is a hardy perennial, propagated by root division. Galactode'ndron. Cow-tree. A synonym for Brosimum Galactodendron, which see. Gala'nthus. Snow-drop. From gala, milk, and anthos, flower ; referring to the color of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. G. nivalis, the common Snow-drop, for its poetical associations as the ever-weicome harbinger of spring, is universally cultivated, and by potting and very gentle forcing may be made an interesting ornament to the green- house in mid-winter. Snow-drops are well known and general favorites on account of the modest beauty displayed by their flowers at the early season in which they appear. G. Elwesii from Asia Minor, and G. plicatus from the Crimea are larger flowered species though still rare in gardens. A very distinct and much admired double form of Cr. nivalis, is also largely cultivated. When once planted it is best to let them take care of themselves, as if planted where the soil is suitable and left alone, they increase rapidly and annually appear in flower suddenly with the earliest approach of spring. Ga'lax. From gala, milk ; referring to the milk- white flowers. Nat. Ord. Diapensiacem. G. aphylla, is a beautiful little native plant, with pure white flowers, particularly suitable GAL for growing on a rockwork. best in a cool damp place. It will succeed Gala'xia. From galaktos, milk; referring to the juice. Nat. Ord. Iridacem. A genus of dwarf, tender bulbs from the Cape of Good Hope. The flower stems are short, with a terminal cluster of narrow leaves and handsome funnel-shaped yellow or purple flowers. The bulbs may be planted out in early spring, like the Gladiolus, and given the same treatment during summer. They are increased by offsets and may be left in the ground during winter, if protected from frost. Introduced in 1799. Galba'num. The name of an aromatic gum- resin issuing from the stems of Ferula gal- baniflua, F. rubricaulis, etc. Galea'ndra. From galea, a helmet, and aner, a stamen ; referring to the crested male organ on the top of the column. Nat. Ord. Orchid- acecB. A small genus of terrestrial Orchids, with pink, purple, or yellow flowers. They are from Central and South America, and require the same treatment as is recommended for the Bletia. Introduced in 1840. Gale'ga. Goat's Rue. From gala, milk ; refer- ring to an old idea that the herbage was said to increase the milk of such animals as eat it. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A small genus of strong, robust, erect growing herbaceous perennials, with small pea-like flowers, mostly natives of the Med- iterranean region, extending eastward into Persia. G. orientalis, one of the most showy species, has handsome light green leaves, and blue flowers, which are produced in June. It grows from three to four feet high ; and is increased by seeds sown in spring. Introduced from the Levant in 1801. Galeo'psis. Hemp-nettle. From gale, a weasel, and opsis, like ; in allusion to the likeness of the flower to a weasel's snout. Nat. Ord. Labiatoe. A genus of weedy plants, whose flowers are supposed to resemble the head of a weasel, and could with the same propriety be sup- posed to resemble that of most any other animal. They are common in most parts of this country ; naturalized from Europe. Gale Sweet. See Myrica Gale. Ga'lium. Bedstraw, Cleavers. From gala, milk ; referring to the flowers of G. verum having been used to curdle milk. Nat. Old. Rubiaceo3. A genus of interesting herbs, natives of Europe, but extensively naturalized in the United States. G. aparine, vulgarly known as Goose Grass, has a great reputation in the eclectic practice of medicine as a cure for gravel in the bladder, and is considered by them invaluable as a diuretic. Galls. Excrescences of various kinds and forms produced in plants by the presence of the larvse of different insects. 162 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS GAL Galto'nia. Named in memory of Francis Galton, author of " A Narrative of an Explorer in South Africa." Nat. Ord. Liliacece. A genus of hardy bulbs, natives of south Africa. They are well adapted for growing in clumps for lawn decoration. G. candicans, is best known in cultivation as Hyacinthus can- dicans, which see. Gama Grass. See Tripsacum. Gambier. See Uncaria Gambler. Gamboge. A gum resin that is furnished by a number of trees in the East Indies. It was at one time chiefly obtained from Xanthochymus, a native of Ceylon. Gamboge-tree. Garcinia Morella, var. pedi- cillata. Gamole'pis. From gamos, joined, and lepis, a scale. Nat. Ord. Composite. G. tagetes, the only described species, is a tender annual, with small yellow flowers, a native of the Cape of Good Hope. The flowers somewhat resemble those of the Othonna, to which it is allied. Garci'nia. Mangosteen. Named after Dr. L. Garcin, a French botanist and traveler in the East. Nat. Ord. Guttiferce. A genus of tropical trees of medium size, highly esteemed for their delicious fruit, and for the valuable gums they furnish. The fruit of G. Mangostana is one of the most delicious that grows, and the tree upon which it is pro- duced is one of the most graceful and beauti- ful anywhere to be met with. It is a native of Sumatra and the islands of the Eastern Archipelago. The stem rises to the height of about twenty feet ; the branches come out in regular order, and give the head of the tree the form of a parabola ; the leaves are about eight inches long, and four broad at the middle, of a beautiful green on the upper side, and a fine olive on the under. The flowers resemble that of a single rose, with some dark red petals. The fruit is round, about the size of an ordinary orange. The shell of the fruit, which is at first green, but changes to brown, marked with yellow spots, has some resemblance to that of the Pomegranate, but is thicker and softer, and the contents are more juicy. The flavor of the pulp is said to be that of the finest Grape and Strawberry united ; but those who have tasted the fruit in perfection, and attempted to convey to others some idea of the impression that it had made on them, are not agreed as to what it resembles. Abel says that ' ' he and his companions were anxious to carry with them some precise expression of its flavor ; but after satisfying themselves that it partook of the Pine-apple and the Peach, they were obliged to confess that it had many other equally good, but utterly inexpressible flavors." The species may be grown and ripen fruit in the hot-house. They will bear fruit in two years from seed. Some of the species yield a gum resin, known as Gamboge, though not the true sort, but it is said to be nearly as good. Garden Cress. See Lepidium sativum. Gardener's Garters. A common name for Phalaris arundinacea variegata; applied also to Arundo Donax variegata. Garde'nia. Named in compliment of Alexander Garden, M. D., of Charleston, South Carolina, GAB, a correspondent of Ellis and Linnaeus. Nat. Ord. Cinchonacea,. A genus of splendid green-house shrubs, remarkable for the size, number and fragrance of their flowers, and the noble character of the plant. G. florida and G. Fortunei are natives of China. The former was introduced into the Cape of Good Hope, in 1754, whence it received its common name, Cape Jessamine. They are usually treated as green-house plants, but if kept moderately cool during winter, their season of rest, and planted out in spring they will flower freely during the early part of the summer. They may be taken up in autumn, potted, and kept under the table in the green-house during winter. They are readily increased by cuttings made from half ripened wood. The species, often cultivated under the name of G- citriodora, is now named Mitriostigma axillare, which see. Garden Pink. The common name for Dianthus plumarius. Garden Walks. See Asphalt and Gas Lime. Gardo'quia. Named after Gardoqui a Spaniard, who greatly promoted the publication of the " Flora Peruviana." Nat. Ord. Labiatm. A genus of green-house, low -growing shrubs, producing from the axils of the leaves bright scarlet or pink flowers. They thrive well with ordinary green-house culture. In order to make neat and compact plants they should be kept cut well back, or the plants will become straggling; they are readily increased by cuttings. Introduced in 1812 from Peru. Garland Flower! A common name for Hedy- chium, the name is also applied to Daphne cneorum. Garlic. Allium sativum. This plant belongs to the same genus as the Onion and the Leek. It is a perennial, found growing wild in the southern parts of Europe. It is commonly cultivated in almost every country, and has been highly esteemed from a very early period, not as an article of food, but as a medi- cine. It was introduced into the English gardens in 1548. Every part of the plant, but especially the root has a pungent, acrimonious taste, and a peculiar offensive odor, that is far more penetrating and diffusive than that of the Onion. So powerful is this principle, that when Garlic is applied externally, as to the feet, the smell is said to be observed in the breath and perspiration. The common field Garlic, Allium vineale, was supposed to have been brought into this country by the "Welsh, it is now completely naturalized, and in many parts of the country is quite a nuis- ance. A. Canadense, or Wild Garlic, is indi- genous, and common in moist meadows. This differs from the field Garlic in having flat leaves, but is equally to be dreaded. Ga'rrya. Named after Mr. Garry, ot the Hud- son's Bay Company, who facilitated Mr. Douglass, its discoverer, in his botanical re- searches. Nat. Ord. Cornaceai. A genus of handsome evergreen shrubs, very similar in appearance to the Viburnum. They were discovered by Mr. Douglass in north-western California, in 1828, and were considered by him as among his most valuable discoveries. The species are common from California to Texas and southward, with a single one in the "West Indies. G. elliptica is AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 163 GAR a handsome shrub, with dark green leathery leaves, and catkins of yellowish green flow- ers in clusters near the tips of the branches, produced from November till February. It grows from five to ten feet high, and is very ornamental in winter. Garrya'ceae. A tribe of Cornaceoe. Gas Lime. This is the refuse lime thrown out from the gas houses, to which has been as- cribed great qualities, not only as a fertilizer but, at the same time, as an insect destroyer. We much doubt the last quality ascribed to it, and know that it is not only worthless as a fertilizer, but that its use, particularly when it has been used fresh, is most injurious to vegetation, and would therefore advise strongly against its use on land for any pur- pose. It is, however, an excellent material for garden walks. Mixed with its own bulk or even double its bulk of sifted ashes, cov- ered with a slight sprinkling of brown sand or gravel, to deaden the color, well watered, and heavily rolled until it is quite solid, it makes a walk that if properly drained, will not be injured by frost, will last for years, and is doubly valuable, inasmuch that no weeds will grow on it. Gas Plant. Dictamnus Fraxinella. Gas Tar or Coal Tar. This has been used to a considerable extent as a preservative, on wood-work such as benches, gutters, posts, and other parts of green-house structures. We are inclined to believe it is of very little value for that purpose, unless for gutters or other outside wood-work, and then only if it is put on annually, so as to form a skin or coating to prevent the penetration of moist- ure. Its use inside is often fraught with dan- ger, particularly whenever exposed to a high temperature, say 100 degrees, as a gas is evolved that is quickly destructive to plants. A not unusual blunder in putting hot-water pipes in the green-house or grapery is to paint them with coal tar ; and many fall into this error every season, in spite of all the warn- ings given. When the hot- water pipes have been painted with coal tar, just as soon as the pipes are heated up by firing, gas is emitted most destructive to plants, which is seen in the showers of falling leaves and flowers, after a few hours of firing. When anyone has been unfortunate enough to fall into this blunder, there is no remedy but to take down the pipes and build strong fires under them sufficient to drive out every particle of the gas tar. We have seen every imaginable remedy tried, but all was of no avail ; for the tar penetrates through the pores of the metal, and though the surface is scraped entirely clean, the gas is given out on the application of heat just as bad as if the surface had not been scraped. So that, as we have before said, there is no known remedy except the troublesome and expensive one of taking the pipes down, and burning the tar out of them, which is always effectual if properly done. Gaste'ria. From gaster, a belly; alluding to the swollen base of the flowers. Nat. Ord. IAliacece. A somewhat extensive genus of succulent green-house plants, from the Cape of Good Hope, allied to the Aloe, which they closely resemble, and requiring the same treatment. GAZ The flowers of most of the species are bright scarlet or red, and very showy. Gastrolo'bium. From gaster, belly, and lobos, a pod ; inflated seed-pod. Nat. Ord. Legumi- 7108CB. Handsome New Holland shrubs with bright yellow and orange-colored blossoms, requir- ing to have an airy situation in the green- house through the winter, and a shaded one out of doors in summer. Propagated by seeds or from cuttings. Introduced in 1840. Gastrone'ma. From gaster, belly, and nema, a filament; in reference to the filaments seen below the points of insertion. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacew. A small genus of very pretty, but exceed- ingly rare bulbs, from south Africa, closely allied to Cyrtanthus. There are but two spe- cies, one with white and the other with rose- colored flowers. They are increased by off- sets and will flower freely in the open ground in summer, if planted in early spring. When the foliage shows signs of ripening, take up the bulbs, and keep in a dry place, free from frost, during winter. Introduced in 1816. Gaulthe'ria. Named after Dr. Gaulthier, of Quebec, Canada. Nat. Ord. Ericacece. Of the several species of this genus of low evergreens, two are natives of this country, and perfectly hardy. G. procumbens is found throughout the Northern States, and univers- ally known as Wintergreen. In some sec- tions the berries are called Partridge Ber- ries, in others Checker-berry, Deer-berry, Tea-berry, etc. Wintergreen oil is distilled from this plant. G. nummularioides, is an or- namental hardy evergreen, with flowers re- sembling those of Lily of the Valley, but fre- quently tinged with rosy pink, succeeded by bright scarlet fruit. It is an excellent basket plant, and was introduced from the Himalayas in 1884. Gau'ra. From gauros, superb ; in reference to the beautiful flowers of some of the species. Nat. Ord. Onagracece. A genus of tender and half-hardy annuals, biennials and perennials, common in the Southern States, Mexico and South America. G. Lindheimeri, the only species in general cultivation, is a slender, branching, herba- ceous plant, bearing its long spikes of white or pink flowers in great abundance throughout the summer. The profusion of its spikes of graceful flowers, makes it a valuable plant for garden decoration ; and the flowers are very useful for bouquets or vases. It is a native of Texas, is propagated by cuttings or from seeds. Gaza'nia. From gaza, richness ; in reference to the large, gaudy flowers. Nat. Ord. Com- posite. A genus of very showy, low-growing, tender herbaceous plants, from the Cape of Good Hope. The flowers are large, yellow, or deep orange color, with almost black centers, and open only in clear sunshiny weather. They are very ornamental for the green-house, are well adapted for out-of- door culture, and are propagated readily from cuttings. Introduced in 1812. Gazanio'psis. From Gazania, and opsis, like; in allusion to the resemblance to Gazania. Nat. Ord. Composite. 164 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS GAY G. stenophylla, the only species, a native of south Africa, has large flower-heads three inches across, bronzy-green outside, and the richest golden yellow inside. The leaves are deep green above and snowy- white underneath. The flowers have the same habit of closing in the after part of the day, as those of the Gazania. Gaylussa'cia. Named in honor of N. F. Gay- lussac, a celebrated French chemist. Nat. Ord. Ericacece. Branching shrubs two to five feet high, common on woodlands and swamps. The Huckleberry is the fruit of several of the species; see Huckleberry. Geisso'is. From geisson, house-tiling ; the seeds are imbricated like the tiles of a house. Nat. Ord. SaxifragacetB. A small genus of evergreen trees, natives of New Caledonia, the Fiji Islands and Aus- tralia. G. racemosa is an interesting plant of moderate growth, with very distinct leafage that may be likened to that of a Pavia. The midribs and leaf-stalks are of a fine red color, and the blade of the leaves full deep green. Introduced from New Caledonia in 1851. Geissome'ria. From geisson, a tile, and meris, a part ; the imbricated bracts fall over each other, like tiles on a roof. Nat. Ord. Acantha- cefB. Evergreen pubescent or glabrous shrubs, mostly natives of Brazil. G. longiflora the the best known species, has oval or oblong entire leaves, and terminal spikes of long, scarlet, tubular, velvety flowers. It is a splendid free-flowering plant, growing in any good compost, and is propagated by cuttings. Geissorhi'za. Tile Root. From geisson, a tile, and rhiza, a root ; referring to the dry coats which cover the fleshy roots, like tiles on a roof. Nat. Ord. Iridacem. A small genus of south African bulbs, one species of which has been found in Abyssinia. They are all remarkable for having bulbs, or, more correctly, bulbo-tubers, covered with several crustaceous or scarious skins or tunics, which lie over each other like scales, or the tiles of a house, beginning from below. It is from this peculiarity that the plants take their English name of Tile Root. They have but four leaves, all of which spring from the root, and are narrow and bristly. The stems are simple or branched, producing one or two flowers each, resembling the Ixia, very showy, of various colors, white, yellow and blue predominating. They are properly green-house bulbs, but will succeed finely in a cold frame, and are in- creased by offsets. Introduced in 1795. Gelasi'ne. From gelasinos, a smiling dimple; referring to the flowers of these pretty bulbs. Nat. Ord. Iridacece. G. azwrea, the only species, is a small bulb from the Rio Grande, producing two to four beautiful blue tulip-shaped flowers on a slender stalk, about one and a half feet high. Propagated by offsets, or from seed. Seedlings flower the second year. Introduced in 1838. Gelse'mium. From gelsemius, an Italian name of the Jasmine ; alluding to the simplicity of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Loganiacem. A small genus of climbing shrubs, with op- posite lance-shaped, shining leaves, and GEN producing axillary clusters of showy yellow flowers, very fragrant. It is indigenous to North Carolina and southward, and is popu- larly known as Carolina Jessamine. It is in- creased by cuttings. Geminate. Growing in pairs. Genety'llis. A small genus of Myrtacea, ; now united with Darwinia, which see. Geniculate. Where any part is bent abruptly, so as to form a decided angle, as the stems of many grasses. Geni'pa. Genip-tree. A genus of tropical American trees of the Nat. Ord. Rubiacem. Nearly allied to the Gardenia. The flowers are small, and produce a fruit about the size of an orange, greenish-white in color, and full of dark purple rather acrid juice. It is edible, and is called in the West India Islands " Genipap Fruit." Geni'sta. From the Celtic gen, a small bush. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. This genus consists of upward of seventy species, inhabiting Europe, north Africa, and western Asia. Many of the species are per- fectly hardy. G. tinctoria, or Dyer's Green- weed, an escape from Europe, has taken pos- session of the dry waste places of southern New York and New England, with the per- sistency of a native. This species, of which there is a very pretty double-flowered form, Vields a yellow dye. They are all very hand- some, from the profusion of their bright yel- low pea-flowers, and are of the easiest culture, The green-house kinds are propagated by cuttings or seeds. Gentian. The genus Gentiana. Closed Flowered. Gentiana Andrewsii. Fringed. Gentiana crinita. Soap-wort. Gentiana Saponaria. Gentia'na. Gentian. Named after Gentius, King of Illyria, who first experienced the virtues of the plant. Nat. Ord. GentianacecB. A large genus of herbaceous perennials, in- habiting all parts of the world, from the regions of perpetual snow upon the summits of the mountains of Europe, to the hottest sands of South America. They are very com- mon in many parts of this country, some growing on dry hill-sides, others in moist and swampy grounds. All the plants of this genus are pretty, and many are extremely beautiful; the flowers take in the extremes of color : pink, blue, yellow and white, are ali exhibited, the predominating color, however, being a beautiful blue. G. Andrewsii is com- mon in moist, rich places in the Northern States, and is a very beautiful species; the flowers are of a deep, purplish blue, striped inside, the folds whitish. G. crinita, Fringed Gentian, is another quite common species in New England and westward. The four lobes of the corolla are fringed at the margin, an ex- ceptional point of beauty of this species. The Alpine species are mostly low-growing, well adapted for rock-work or pot culture. The species are increased by seed, whicn should be sown as soon as ripe. The Fringed Gentian is partial to its native home, it rarely lives if transplanted, and coming into flower so late in the season, it is i very seldom that it ripens seed. Were it readily increased it would be a very popular plant. 64 GALANTHUS NIVALIS (SNOWDROP). GAILLARDIA LORENZIANA (DOUBLE FL'G). GEONOMA GRACILIS. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 165 GEN Gentiana'ceae. A natural order of herbs, rarely shrubs, with opposite, entire, exstipulate, usually ribbed leaves, and showy flowers. They are found in almost all parts of the world, some at high elevations, and others in hot tropical plains. They are generally bitter ; some are narcotic. There are about seventy known genera and upward of 500 species. Gentiana, Lisianthus, Menyanthes, Villarsia, Erythrcea, and Chlora are examples of the order. Gentianella. Gentiana acaulis. Genus. A family of plants agreeing in their flower and fruit; an assemblage of species possessing certain characters in common, by which they are distinguished from all others. Geo'noma. From geonomos, skilled in agricul- ture; it was supposed that only a skillful gardener could increase these palms. Nat. Ord. Palmacem. This genus includes something about forty species of Palms, the most of them without special interest. G. gracilis is a dwarf species of pendant habit, resembling somewhat some of the Cocos, and is very popular for decorative purposes. The species are of but little value in the useful arts, and are increased from seeds. Gerania'ceae. A natural order of herbs or shrubs with swollen joints, and opposite or alternate leaves, which are usually palmately veined and lobed, often stipulate. Che plants are distributed over various parts of the world. The species of Pelargonium are abundant at the Cape of Good Hope. It is this genus that has furnished the beautiful varieties that ornament the green-house in winter and the garden in summer, one class of which is commonly known as Scarlet Geraniums. The species of Geranium and Erodium are mostly natives of Europe, North America, and northern Asia. There are about twenty genera and seven hundred and fifty species in the order, the principal part of which are natives of south Africa. Geranium, Pelargonium, Erodium, and Tropceolum, are examples of the order. Gera'nium. Crane's bill. From geranos, a crane ; referring to the beak-like torus, or projection beyond the seeds. Nat. Ord. Geraniacem. A somewhat extensive genus of herbaceous plants, most of which are hardy. Two species are common to this country, and several of the species are classed with our native plants, having been naturalized from Europe. A few of the species produce handsome flowers, while most of them are mere weeds. The well-known Scarlet or Fish Geraniums of our gardens are properly Pelargoniums, and will be found under that head. Gera'rdia. False Fox Glove. Named in honor of John Gerard, author of the famous " Herbal," 1597. Nat. Ord. Scrophulariacem. A genus of hardy annuals and perennials, common in many of the States, particularly along the seacoast. The flowers are yellow and purple, and are produced in great abund- ance. The species being more or less root parasitic, are extremely difficult of cultivation, but spread rapidly where once introduced. Germander. See Teucrium. German Greens. See Borecole. GES German Ivy. A popular name of Senecio Scandens. Germination. The first act of vegetation in a seed, commonly called "sprouting." Geropo'gon. Old Man's Beard. From geron, old man, and pogon, a beard ; referring to the hair-like pappus which crowns the calyx in this order. Nat. Ord. Composites. The only species of this genus is a very curious annual plant. G. glaber, a native of Italy, having a smooth stem and leaves, and growing about a foot high. The flowers are flesh-colored, and expand in the form of a star only when the sun shines upon them. The seeds are very curious, and it is from them that the plant takes its English name. They should be sown in the open border in March or April, and the plants will flower in July and August. This genus is now included by some botanists with Tragopogon. Gerrada'nthus. Named after W. T. Gerrard, a collector at Natal. Nat. Ord. Cucurbitacece. A genus of tall glabrous climbers, natives of western and eastern tropical Africa. G. tomentosus, the only species known to cultiva- tion is a stove perennial of great botanical interest. Mr. Wood, superintendent of the Natal Botanic Gardens, is recorded to have found on the top of and between large stones, tubers, one of which "measured six feet in circumference, and was nearly two feet thick, its surface was scarred, and from the centre arose a stem not more than three quarters of an inch in diameter, thickly covered with small, round tubercles, which ascended with- out a leaf to the top of trees fifty feet high. On turning over one of the tubers, it was found to have but one fibrous root about half an inch thick. * * * The natives do not appear to put the plant to any use." — "Botanical Magazine." It may be increased by seeds. Gesne'ra. Named after Conrad Gesner, a cele- brated botanist in Zurich. Nat. Ord. Gesner- acem. , A beautiful and extensive genus of tuber- ous-rooted green-house plants from Mexico and South America. They are remarkable for the beauty of their foliage, which is sin- gularly marked, and soft as velvet, and for their long spikes of brilliant-colored flowers, mostly scarlet and yellow. Some of them are singularly marked or spotted. One species, G. Suttoni alba, from Brazil, has pure white flowers. With a little care in regulating their season of rest, they can be brought into flower at any desired time. They require a light rich soil, a warm situation, but little sun, and plenty of water, which should not touch the foliage. They are easily propagated by cut- tings of young shoots, or by cuttings of leaves with a bud at the base, division of the tubers, or from seeds. The latter is a very interesting and simple plan. The certainty that all your plants will be as good as the parents, and the uncertainty as to how good, or how strange they may be, furnish an addi- tional stimulant to grow them in this way. The seed should be sown in March, in pans or boxes, in fine light compost, largely composed of sand, and placed in a warm, moist at- mosphere. As soon as the seedlings are up, and show the second leaf, plant separ- ately, an inch or so apart, in shallow boxes, 166 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS GES and from these put in small pots as they grow, and let them grow there for the sum- mer. Allow them to go to rest in the autumn, and let them remain in the same pots during winter. As soon as they show signs of life in spring, repot in fresh soil, and many of them will come into flower during the summer. The first species were introduced in 1814. Gesnera'ceae. A natural order of herbs or shrubs, often growing from scaly tubers, with wrinkled, usually opposite leaves and showy flowers. They are natives of various parts of the world, but chiefly the warmer regions of America. The succulent roots are occa- sionally edible, and some of the species yield a dye. The leaves of some of them produce buds when laid on the soil, similar to Begonias of the Rex type. There are upward of eighty genera and nearly 300 species. Gesnera, Gloxinia, Achimenes, Streptocarpus, and Cyr- tandra are examples. Gethy'llis. From getheo, to rejoice ; referring to the sweetness of the flowers. Nat. Ord. AmaryllidacecB. A small genus of the most diminutive of this noble family of plants. They are green- house bulbs from the Cape of Good Hope, producing small white, fragrant flowers in July, singly on a scape not more than six inches high, and are propagated by offsets. Introduced in 1780. Ge'um. Avens. From geyo, to stimulate ; the roots of some of them, and of allied species, have the same properties as Peruvian Bark. Nat. Ord. Rosacece. A genus of hardy herbaceous perennials, containing some species of an ornamental character, well adapted for the shrubbery border. G. montanum, bright golden yellow, and G. coccineum, scarlet, are very showy. Propagated by seeds or by root division. Gherkin. A small fruited variety of Cucumis sativa. West Indian. The unripe fruits of Cucumis Anguria. Giant FenneL See Ferula. Gibbous, Gibbose. More convex or swollen in one place than another. Gi'lia. Named in honor of P. S. Gil, a Spanish botanist. Nat. Ord. PolemoniacecB. Handsome hardy annuals from California, with white, lilac, and rose-colored flowers. They are low-growing, and profuse bloomers, suitable for borders or rock-work. Seed should be sown in the fall, and the beds lightly covered with leaves. Fenzlia, Ipo- mopsis, and Leptosiphon are by some botanists included in this genus. Gille'nia. Named after A. Gillenius, a German botanist. Nat. Ord. Rosacece. A genus of two species, natives of the United States. G. trifoliata or Bowman's Root, is a hardy perennial with white or rose-colored flowers ; it is often cultivated under the name of Spircm trifoliata. Gilliflower or Gillyflower. Dianthus Caryo- phyllus, also the genus Matthiola. Gilliflower- Stock. See Matthiola. Gills. The lamellee or plates growing perpen- dicularly from the cap or pileus of an Agaric or Mushroom. GLA Ginger. See Zingiber. Wild. See Asarum Canadense. Gingerbread Tree. See Hyphcene. Gi'nkgo. Maiden-hair Tree. The Japanese name. Nat. Ord. Coniferce. This singular tree is better known in culti- vation under the name of Salisburia, which see. Ginseng. See Panax. Gipsies' Rose. Scabiosa arvensis. Gipsy-Flower. Cynoglossum officinale. Githa'go. A genus now included under Lychnis. Glabrous. Smooth; without hair or other covering, as the Camellia leaf. Gla'diolus. Sword Lily. The diminutive of gladius, a sword; referring to the sword- shaped leaves. Nat. Ord. Iridacece. This extensive and well-known genus con- tains about ninety species, many of which are amongst the most popular of out-door sum- mer and autumn-flowering so-called " bulb- ous" plants. They are found in central Europe, the Mediterranean region, western Asia, and Africa, but the most of the species are natives of southern Africa. They are remarkable for their ease of culture, grace of habit, and for the beauty and intense coloring of the flowers, varying from the most bril- liant scarlet to pure white, from clear rose to pure yellow and bright purple. The habits of the species are as varied as their colors; some delicate and light, others strong and robust, with constitutions adapted to any climate excepting the most frigid. From these species some of the most remarkable hybrids have been produced. In no branch of floriculture has the skill, the zeal, and the perseverance of the hybridizer been so liber- ally rewarded. A class with almost unlimited numbers of varieties has been produced, that, for the size of flower, beauty in form, size and strength of plant, together with the enormous length of flower spike, are entirely unknown to the species. So popular have these hybrids become that the species are only to be found in botanical collections. It is a common mistake to call our many varieties hybrids, when in reality they are all, or nearly all, cross-breeds ; and this is one of the most interesting features in Gladioli culture, that every cross between well-known varieties tends, in almost every case, to improve, not only the beauty of the flower, but the vigor of the plant. We wish now to remove, as far as possible, the prevalent erroneous idea, that it is a difficult task to raise new and choice varieties from seed. The only secret, the only mystery is, that one can, with so little trouble and expense, produce flowers that will give such intense satisfaction and pleasure. It is no more trouble to raise Gladioli from seed than it is to raise the most common vegetable. With the simplest garden culture, there is an almost absolute certainty of success. Prepare your bed in spring as for any hardy annual, sow your seed, and cover to the depth of one inch. Hoe as often as needed for other crops ; keep them well weeded; take up the bulbs after a frost, or before, if they show signs of ripening; store them in a dry cellar, free from frost; plant them out again the next spring, and the ensuing summer very many of AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 167 GLA them will flower. If the precaution is taken to sow the seed in a hot-bed, close the same upon the approach of a heavy rain, which they dislike exceedingly. Very nearly all the bulbs will be large enough to give their most perfect flowers the second year. The fact that the best rarely flower first, will tend to create in the amateur a warm and lively interest. A perti- nent question is, how to obtain the best seed. Commence by making a careful selection of the best varieties in cultivation, keeping in view those of the best form, largest size, and of the most intense and positive colors; wherever they are marked or variegated, have the markings bold and distinct. Plant all in a bed so that they will not be more than one foot apart each way. Without further care you will get some good seed ; but a better quality and much larger quantity will be obtained by crossing them in all sorts of ways, which is the most effectually done on a dry day, when there is but little air stirring. It is not necessary to cross-fertilize for good varieties, though it is a more certain way; yet very many of our best seedlings were acci- dentals. The Gladioli dislikes a stiff, clayey soil, but will thrive well in almost any other, its preference being for one of a moist, sandy nature, or light loam. They do best on what is termed sod-ground, with but little manure, and that well rotted. Successive plantings in the same ground should be avoided. Change the locality of the bed every year, so as not to return to the same spot for at least three years. It is much the best plan to make the ground very rich this year, and put on some light crop ; then it will be in perfect order for the Gladioli next. Increase of desirable sorts is effected by the small bulbs or bulblets that form at the base of the new bulb, which are produced in greater or less quantities. Some varieties will have on an average a hundred in a year ; others will produce scarcely any. This will, in a great measure, account for the marked difference in prices of the named sorts ; it will also account for the rapid in- crease in the more common sorts, and the sudden disappearance of those greatly prized. Choice sorts are but short-lived, unless they are increased by bulblets. In many of our named sorts, old bulbs will not produce good flowers, if, indeed, they produce any; conse- quently the bulblets from all favorite sorts should be planted every spring, or at least a sufficient number of them for a required stock. The bulblets should be planted in spring in any convenient out-of-the-way place in the garden, and given the same treatment as is recommended for the seed. If in rich, light soil, very nearly all will flower the second year. They require but little room the first year. Prepare the rows about the width of the common garden hoe, and sow the bulblets (or seeds) so close that they will nearly touch each other, and they will do much better than if more scattered. During winter the bulbs, without regard to size or age, are best kept in a dry, cool cellar. Plantings should be made as early in spring as the ground can be got in order, no matter if there should be hard frosts after ; it will not penetrate the ground sufficiently to injure them. For late flowering some of the stronger bulbs may be kept until the first of July, which will keep them back until about the first of October. It is now GLA also a common practice with florists to reserve Gladiolus bulbs until August, which are then planted in boxes, four or five inches deep, in rich soil. The boxes are kept out of doors until frost, when they are placed in a cool green-house, where they flower from Novem- ber to December, at a time when they com- mand good prices. A number of the early flowering sorts, such as John Bull, white ; LaCandeur, white, striped with violet ; Shakes- peare, white, suffused with carmine ; Isaac Buchanan, yellow ; Martha Washington, light yellow ; Eugene Scribe, rose, marked with red, Brenchleyensis, scarlet, etc., are also forced, during the spring months, for their flowers, many florists finding them a paying crop between the rows of young roses, etc., as they take up but little room, and are removed before the roses require the space. Notwith- standing that most of the original species have long since been superseded by the numerous and beautiful hybrids now in cultivation, many of them are worthy of being retained for the mixed flower border. G. nalahnsis, G. cardinalis, G. floribundm, G. tristis, etc., the parents of the early hybrids G. Ganda- vensis, G. Colvillei, etc., are still largely culti- vated. The latter species, with its beautiful pure white variety, G. C. Alba, better known in cultivation as "The Bride," are amongst the most beautiful for pot culture. They suc- ceed admirably, and may be had in full beauty by January, if gently forced. The two latter are, moreover, perfectly hardy, and, blooming naturally about the first of June, are welcome additions to our hardy border plants. It is advisable, however, to protect them during winter with a mulching of leaves or some such material, all bulbs succeeding better when not exposed to too much frost. G. purpureo-auratus, another hardy species, the perianth limb of which is golden-yellow, with a large purple blotch on the two lower seg- ments, is the parent of an entirely new section, happily called the "Butterfly Gladioli." They are of all shades of color, beautifully marked and shaded with large, distinct blotches of purple, maroon, or rosy-purple, on the lower petals, similar to the markings on the Fancy Pelargoniums. G. Saundersoni, introduced about the same time as the foregoing (1872), has very showy crimson flowers, spotted with white, and is likely to prove valuable for hybridizing purposes. Gladwyn, or Gladden. The common name for Iris f&tidissima. Glands. Wart-like swellings found on the sur- face of plants, or at one end of their hairs, serving the purpose of secreting organs. They are extremely various in form. Glandular. Covered with hairs, bearing glands upon their tips. Glass and Glazing. If for winter forcing of either fruit or flowers, the glass should be not less than ten by twelve inches in size, laid in the twelve way, and if twelve by twenty all the better. Even with the greatest care, some flaws in the glass will escape detection, and more or less burn the leaves after the sun becomes strong, to counteract which a slight shading had better be used on the glass from April to September. We use naphtha, with just enough white lead mixed in it to give it the appearance of thin milk. This we put on 168 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS OLA with a syringe, which sufficiently covers up all flaws in the glass to prevent burning, and at the same time tends to cool the house from the violence of the sun's rays. This is by far the cheapest and best shading we have ever used. It can be graded to any degree of thickness, and costs only about twenty-five cents per thousand square feet of glass, for material and labor. In glazing, the method now almost univer- sally adopted is to bed the glass in putty, and tack it on top with glazier's points, using no putty on the top. The glazier's points are triangular, one corner of which is turned down, so that, when it is driven in, it fits the lower edge of each pane and prevents it from slipping down. A great mistake is often made in giving the glass too much lap. It should only be given just enough to cover the edge of the pane (from one-eighth to one-fourth of an inch). If given too much, the water gets in, and when it freezes it cracks the glass. All who have had experience with green- houses know that, no matter how well the glazing has been done by bedding the glass in putty, the water gets in at the crevices sooner or later, rotting the putty, and, conse- quently, loosening the glass. A simple plan to obviate this (which has recently been intro- duced) is to pour along the junction of the bar with the glass a thin line of white lead in oil from the slender spout of a machine oil can, over which is shaken dry sand. This at once hardens, and makes a cement which effectually checks all leakage. This, carefully done, will make such a tight job that no repairs will be necessary for many years. Glass wort. See Salicornia. Glastonbury Thorn. Cratcegus ozyacantha prce- cox. A very early flowering variety of the Hawthorn. Glaucescent. Having a bluish-green or sea- green appearance. Gla'ucium. Horned Poppy. From glaukos, grayish green; referring to the color of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Papaveracem. A genus of hardy annuals and perennials, natives of Europe. They are remarkable for their bright yellow flowers, that are produced in great abundance all the summer, and for their deeply cut leaves, that have a decided glaucous hue. G. luteum, one of the most showy and desirable species, is very common at Montauk Point, Long Island, and on the islands along the coast, having become natu- ralized from Europe. This species grows readily from seed, and makes a valuable plant for the ribbon border. Glaucous. Covered with a fine bloom, like that of the Plum or Echeveria secunda glauca. Gla'ux. Sea Milkwort. A pretty little native herbaceous perennial belonging to PrimulacecB. G. Maritima, the only species, grows abun- dantly on most parts of the sea-coast, just above high-water mark, and in salt marshes. The stems are clothed with oblong, fleshy, smooth, entire leaves, which are pale under- neath, and salt to the taste. The flesh-colored flowers are solitary, nearly sessile, and axil- lary. Glazing. See Glass. Glecho'ma. Now included under Nepeta, which see. GLO Gledi'tschia. Honey Locust. In honor of Gottlieb Gledilsch, once a professor at Berlin; a defender of Linnaeus against Siegesbeck, and author of many botanical works. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A genus of handsome hardy deciduous trees, several of the species being common in the Middle, Southern and Western States. G. triacanthos, the Three-thorned Acacia or com- mon Honey Locust, is a common and very ornamental shade tree with elegant foliage. Its wood is heavy, hard, strong and compact, capable of a high polish, and very durable in contact with the soil. From its strong and abundant thorns it is very valuable, and is much cultivated as a hedge plant. Gleiche'nia. Named after Gleichen, a German botanist. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. An extensive genus of Ferns found widely scattered in the tropics, both of the Old and New World, and extending to Chili and the Australasian regions. A few only have found their way into the hot-house, some of which are among the most elegant and graceful of the cultivated Ferns. They are propagated by division or from spores. Introduced in 1823. Gleichenia'ceae. A group or sub-order of Filices. Glo'bba. Native Molucca name. Nat. Ord. ZingiberacecB. A genus of about twenty-four species of pretty plant-stove, herbaceous perennials, natives of India and the Malayan Archipelago. Flowers yellow or pinkish, very curious look- ing. Of easy culture in a warm green-house ; increased by division. Globe Amaranth. See Gomphrena globosa. Globe-Daisy. Globularia vulgaris. Globe-Flower. The genus Trollius, which see. Swamp. Cephalanthus occidentalis. Globe-Thistle. The genus Echinops, which see. Globose, Globular. Bound or spherical. Globula'ria. From globulos, a small round head ; in allusion to the form of the capitate flower. Nat. Ord. Selaginacece. A genus of hardy or green-house perennial herbs or shrubs inhabiting the Mediterranean region, etc. Flowers collected upon a com- mon receptacle surrounded by a many-leaved involucre. Pretty plants for the rock garden or herbaceous border; propagated by seeds or by division. Globule'a. From globulos, a small globe; re- ferring to the glands on the petals. Nat. Ord. CrasxvlacecB. A genus of succulent plants, natives of the Cape of Good Hope, with flat, sickle-shaped leaves, arranged in a rosette. The flowers are small, arranged in dense clusters, and have five petals bent inward, each of them tipped with a little globule of waxy matter, whence the name of the genus, which is closely allied to Crassula. The several species are propagated by cuttings of firmish young shoots, that should be dried a day or two be- fore being put into the propagating bed. In- troduced in 1732. Glomerate. Collected into close heads or parcels. Glone'ria Jasminiflora. See Psychotria ja&' miniflora. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 169 GLO Glorio'sa. From gloriosus, glorious; because of the magnificent flowers. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. A very handsome genus of green-house bulbs, of limited climbing habit, the flowers curiously shaped, bright yellow or orange in color. They should be grown in pots of very sandy loam, and treated in the manner recom- mended for Gesnera, except that, being climb- ing plants, they will require to be supported with sticks or a trellis. Natives of south Africa, introduced in 1825. Syn. Methonica. Glory-Flower. Ch il i an . Eccremocarpus scaber. Glory of the Snow. See Chionodoxa. Glory-Pea. Dampier's. Clianthus Dampieri. New Zealand. Clianthus puniceus. Clerodendron fragrans, and other Glory-Tree. species. Glossoco'mia. From glossocomos, a money-bag ; referring to the shape of the flower. Nat. Ord. Campanulacece. A small genus of hardy herbaceous plants, with white or purple bell-shaped flowers, from northern India. They are increased by seeds or division. Introduced in 1839. Syn. Codon- opsis. Gloxi'nia Named after P. B. Gloxin, a botanist of Colmar. Nat. Ord. Gesneracece. The species that compose this splendid genus are, with one or two exceptions, natives of South America, and are usually found in deep ravines, on rather high mountain eleva- tions, and in damp, much-shaded situations. The species are among the greatest ornaments of our green-houses, and the richness of their foliage, and their ample, graceful, and deli- cately-tinted flowers, have gained for them a prominent place among the more choice flowering plants. Here, as in many other instances, the process of hybridizing has been largely resorted to, and the results are most satisfactory. The older kinds, with drooping flowers, have mostly given place to forms "with the corolla almost regular and nearly erect, the latter peculiarity having this recommendation, that the border and throat of the corolla, to which parts much of the beauty of the flower is owing, are presented to the eye. The hybrids are greatly improved In color as well as form, and the flowers are produced in greater abundance than with the species. The main art in growing Gloxinias well, is to give them a porous and well-enriched soil, to grow them in a warm, moist atmos- phere, and as soon as they begin to flower to remove them to a cooler house, and afterward dry them off gradually, and keep them free from moisture till they again begin to grow. To produce the richest colors the glass should be shaded, or they should be grown where there is only a northern exposure. Gloxinias are readily propagated by their leaves; all that is required is to insert the leaf, about one-half its length, in an ordinary propagating bed, keep the sand moderately wet until the leaf is completely dried up, then withhold water entirely, and leave the newly-formed tubers until the following February, at which time they will commence to grow, when they should be taken out and potted. They will flower in one year after the cuttings are put in. They are also produced easily from seed, which they ripen abundantly. On account of its very small size it should be sown on a GLY smooth surface of soil, and merely covered with a slight covering of moss laid lightly over, and kept on until germination has taken place. As soon as they are fit to handle the plants are pricked out into small pots or shallow boxes, and with careful attention they will make flowering plants the first season. In all the stages of growth, whether the plants are large or small, care should be taken, in watering, to avoid wetting the leaves, or to have the earth sodden around them ; either will cause them to damp off and rot. They require a warm temperature when growing, and are exceedingly useful if planted in a warm frame and shaded from bright sun, for growing for cut flowers during the sum- mer months. This plant was first introduced in 1739. Glumaceous. Plants are said to be glumaceous when their flowers are like those of grasses. Glume. The exterior series of the scales which constitute the flower of a grass. Glutinose. Covered with a sticky exudation. Glyce'ria. From glykeros, sweet; alluding to the herbage. Nat. Ord. Graminacew. An extensive genus of grasses, mostly aquatic. They are of but very little beauty or interest. A few of the species that grow in moist meadows, near the sea-coast, furnish a pasture that is relished by stock of all kinds. The species are common throughout the Northern, Eastern, and Western States.. Gly'cine. From glykys, sweet ; referring to the taste of the roots of some of the species. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. A small genus, nearly all of which are tender climbing plants, producing axillary flowers, singly or in racemes, white, yellow, or rose ; they are only adapted for green- house culture. There is one species, G. soga, that is a hardy annual, a native of Japan, that produces seeds like small kidney beans, which the Japanese use in large quantities, either in soup, or in making a sauce called sooja or soy, this sauce being used in many of their dishes. The Wistaria was formerly incorrectly called Glycine. Glycyrrhi'za. Liquorice. From glykys, sweet, and rhiza, a root ; referring to the sweet juice of the roots of the liquorice. Nat. Ord. Leguminosaz. A genus of hardy herbaceous perennials, the one of principal interest being G. glabra, a native of Italy, the roots of which produce the Liquorice of commerce. None of the species are cultivated as ornamental plants. Glypto'strobus. Embossed Cypress. From the Greek words glyptos, carved or engraved, and strobos, a cone ; from the embossing on the scales. Nat. Ord. Coniferw. G. sinensis pendula, the best known species, popularly known as the Chinese Weeping Deciduous Cypress, was formerly included in the genus Taxodium. Mr. Scott says of this tree: "Though this belongs to a section of the Conifers, which are deciduous, they are in all other respects so allied in appearance with the evergreens as usually to be classed with them. This variety in the neighborhood of New York is certainly the most beautiful and hardy of all the deciduous Cypresses. The tree in its whole appearance is so dis- tinct from all other trees generally cultivated 170 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS GNA in this country that it is certainly one of the most desirable novelties among trees. We have seen it only in autumn, at which time the weeping character of the foliage is not marked, and the outline is distinctly formal. The pendulousness is only in the curl and droop of the young foliage, the branches radi- ating quite rigidly. It is known in China as the water pine, and found principally in the maritime districts. The tree grows from twenty to thirty feet high, and casts its lower limbs as it rises ; so that at maturity its form is like that of the common pear tree, or some- what more slender." Like all others of the tribe, this will thrive in almost any soil, pre- ferring a moist situation. Syn. Taxodium. Gnapha'lium. Cudweed. From gnaphalon, soft down ; in reference to the woolly covering of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Composites. A genus known as Everlastings. Many of the species formerly included in it are now classed with Helichrysum. There are sev- eral species, hardy perennials, very com- mon in the Middle and Southern States, which are the only ones worth cultivating. Gneta'ceee. A small order of shrubs, natives principally of the tropics. The seeds of some of the species are edible. Welwitschia and Ephedra are the best known genera. Gni'dia. The ancient name of the Laurel. Nat. Ord. Thymelacece. A genus of green-house evergreens, pro- ducing pale yellow flowers. In habit they resemble the Heath. They are quite pretty, but difficult of cultivation, and are propagated by cuttings. They are natives of the Cape of Good Hope ; introduced in 1768. Goat's Beard. A popular name of Spiraea arun- cus and Tragopogon pratensis. Goat's-eye. See JEgilops. Goat's Rue. See Galega. Goat's Wheat. The genus Tragopyrum. Gode'tia. Named by Spach, a German botanist, resident of Paris ; it is probably a Latinized proper name. Nat. Ord. Onagracem. A genus of exceedingly handsome and showy hardy annuals from California, growing about a foot and a half high, and producing number- less rosy-lilac flowers. The seeds should be started in the hot-bed in March, and trans- planted into poor soil when danger from frost is over. They require plenty of room ; close planting will draw them up, and weaken them, and rich soil will produce more leaves than flowers. Included by some authors under (Enothera. Godwi'nia. Derivation of name not given. G. gigas, the only species under cultivation, is a native of Nicaragua, and belongs to the Nat. Ord. Aroidece. From a large tuberous root-stock it throws up a single leaf, with a mottled stalk ten feet high, the blade being very largely and deeply pedately cut. The inflorescence appears at a different time from the leaf, and consists of a stalk about ten inches high, supporting an oblong purple hood-like spathe sometimes two feet in length, which spreads open a little at the top, but elsewhere closely envelops the short spadix, which latter is completely cover- ed with hermaphrodite flowers. The stamens are twelve in number in two rows, and by this GOM circumstance Godwinia may be distinguished from the nearly allied genus Dracontium. It was supposed to be the largest Arad, both as to leaf and flower known, until the discovery of Amorphallus titanum by Dr. Beccari in western Sumatra. "The tuber dug up by the doctor measured five feet in circumference and was so heavy that ten men could scarcely carry it. From this tuber only one leaf is produced, but what a leaf, to cover an area of forty-five feet in circumference." The leaf-stalk is ten feet high, divided at the top into three branches, each as large as a man's thigh. It flowered for the first time under cultivation at Kew, in June of this year (1889), the spadix and flower stem together reaching to the height of seven feet. Goe'thea. Named in honor of Goethe, the cele- brated German poet. Nat. Ord. Malvaceae. A genus comprising four species of ever- green shrubs, natives of Brazil. The well known Pavonia Makoyana and P. Wyoti, are now included in this genus, the latter as 67. multijlora. Gold-Cups. Ranunculus bulbosus. Gold-Dust. tile. Golden Chain. Golden Club. A popular name for Alyssum saxa- Cytisus Laburnum. See Orontium. Golden Crown, The genus Chrysostemma. Golden Feather. See Pyrethrum. Golden Rod. See Solidago. Golden Thistle. See Scolymus. Golden Vine. See Stigmaphyllum ciliatum. Gold Pern. Various Gymnogrammas. Gold Leaf Plant. Aucuba Japonica. Goldfu'ssia. Named after Dr. Goldfuss, Pro- fessor of Natural History in the University of Bonn. Nat. Ord. Acanthacece. A genus of green-house evergreen shrubs, from Silhet. The flowers have two deciduous bracts, and are arranged in a head or spike, which, after the fall of the bracts, becomes very loose and straggling. The flowers are funnel-shaped, blue or purple. The plants require to be cut well back after flowering, and are propagated by cuttings. 6?. ani- sophylla, is well known in cultivation under the name of Ruellia. Introduced in 1838. Syn. Strobilanthus. Gold Thread. See Coptis. Goldylocks or Goldilocks, a common name for Chrysocoma Linosyris. Gombo or Okra. See Hibiscus. Go'mphia. Button Flower. From gomphos, a club ; alluding to the shape of the fruit. Nat. Ord. Ochnacece. A genus of very beautiful tender shrubs from the West Indies and South America The flowers are pure bright yellow, borne in dense panicles. They require the warmest place in the green-house ; propagated by cuttings. Gompholo'bium. From gomphos, a club, and lobos, a pod ; shape of seed vessel. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A small genus of elegant green-house twin- ing shrubs, found in south and west Australia. Several of the species have been introduced into the green-house, where they produce their blossoms in the spring and summer AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 171 GOM months. The flowers are large, pea-shaped, yellow and crimson, and rose-purple. G. polymorphum splendens is a profuse bloomer, opening in succession its intense crimson and yellow flowers in May. The largest flowered species is G. barbigerum, so named because of the keel petal being fringed, its pale yellow flowers are axillary, and are produced singly. Gomphre'na. Globe Amaranth. From gom- phos, a club; alluding to the shape of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Amaranthacece. This is supposed to be the Amaranth of the poets, which, from the durability of its flow- ers, was considered to be the emblem of im- mortality. It seems to have been used at funerals in the time of Homer, as he describes it as worn by the Thessalians at the funeral of Achilles. The Gomphrenas are tender an- nuals. The seeds are slow to germinate, and should be sown in March in a hot-bed or in seed pans in the green-house. The plants will be greatly benefitted by pricking out, or re-potting before planting in the open border. With this treatment single plants can be made to produce several hundred flowers. The flowers of the garden varieties are white, purple, and striped. If cut before fully ripe and tied in bunches, and allowed to dry in a rather dark and airy room, they will retain their colors the whole season, making them desirable for bouquets of dried flowers. G. globosa, the best known species, is a native of India ; introduced in 1714. Gomuti or Gomuto. See Saguerus. Gongo'ra. Named after a Spanish viceroy of New Grenada. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A singular genus of Orchids from tropical America. They are compact growing and evergreen, producing long pendulous racemes of flowers rich in color and often grotesque in appearance. They can be successfully grown in what is termed a " cool Orchid house," or a green-house. Goniophle'bium. From gonia, an angle, and phlebia, a vein ; alluding to the veins of the fronds. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. Hot-house Ferns, found in nearly all tropi- cal countries. A few are simple-fronded spec- ies, with a creeping, ivy-like habit, and con- tracted fertile fronds ; but they have mostly stoutish, slow-creeping rhizomes, and large fronds, often of a pendulous habit, and some- times several feet in length. Some of the species are exceedingly handsome, and valued in collections, G. subauriculalum with long drooping pinnate fronds often four feet in length, being one of the most beautiful ferns for large hanging baskets in the warm green- house or plant stove. They are all propa- gated by spores or by division in spring. This genus is now placed by some botanists under Polypodium. Gonio'ptei is. From gonia, an angle, and pteris, a fern; referring to the leaves. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. A genus of tropical ferns abounding in the West Indies, South America, tropical Africa and Madagascar, in India, the Pacific islands, Australia and New Zealand. In most respects this genus is similar to Polypodium, and is now placed under that genus by many botan- ists. GOR Gono'calyx. A very beautiful plant of the Nat. Ord. Ericacece, discovered by Schlim in New Grenada, at an elevation of 7,000 feet. It forms a shrub of an erect, bushy habit, thickly clothed with small, nearly orbicular leaves, and bearing fine bright red tubular flowers. The young leaves and shoots are of a purplish-rose color. G. pulcher, the only species, is easily increased by cuttings. Gono'lobus. A large genus of Asclepiadacece, natives of tropical and North America, con- sisting of twining, herbaceous or shrubby plants, with greenish or dingy purple flowers, borne in racemes or corymbs. Upwards of sixty species have been described. Goode'nia. Named in honor of Dr. Samuel Goodenough, author of a monograph of the genus Carex. Nat. Ord. Goodenoviece. A genus of herbaceous plants and a few shrubs, with usually yellow, rarely blue, flow- ers. They are natives of Australia, Tasmania and New Zealand. Propagated by cuttings in spring. Goodeno'vieas. A natural order of herbs, or sub-shrubs; the juice not milky, with scat- tered exstipulate leaves and distinct flowers. Natives chiefly of Australia and the islands of the Southern Ocean. There are about twelve genera and nearly two hundred species. Dampiera, Goodenia and Leschenaultia are good examples. Go'odia. Named after P. Good, a collector of plants in Australia for the Kew Gardens. Nat. Ord. Leguminoscs. Handsome evergreen shrubs from New Hol- land. They are all erect, symmetrical plants, with beautiful foliage. The flowers are pure yellow, produced in racemes like those of the Laburnum, but smaller. They require green- house treatment, and are propagated by seeds or cuttings. Good King Henry. Common name for Cheno- podium Bonus Henricus. Goo'dyera. Named after J. Goodyer, an early British botanist. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A genus of terrestrial Orchids, with small white flowers like those of Spiranthes, but the spike is not spiral. It consists of very few species, all from the northern hemisphere, and mostly from high latitudes or mountain ranges. G. discolor has dark green velvety leaves with a silver stripe down the middle, and is a very handsome plant ; it requires a warm green-house. G. pubescens and G. repens, with green leaves, beautifully veined with sil- ver, and pure white and greenish-white flow- ers, are common to our woods from New York to Wisconsin, and are choice and beau- tiful plants for the rock-work or rock-garden. Gooseberry. See Ribes. Cape. Physalis Peruviana and P. pubescens. Gooseberry Shrub. See Pereskia. Goose-foot. See Chenopodium. Goose-grass. See Galium. Gordo'nia. Named by Dr. Garden in honor of his old master, Dr. James Gordon, of Aber- deen. Nat. Ord. Ternstromiacece. A genus of half-hardy deciduous shrubs or low trees, common in the Southern States. G. lasianthus, popularly known as Loblolly Bay, has large white, showy flowers, and is common in swamps near the coast from Vir- ginia southward. 172 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS GOR Gorse or Goss. Names given to the Whin, Ulex EuropcBus. Gossy'pium. Cotton Plant. From goz, or gothro, an Arabic word signifying a soft sub- stance. Nat. Ord. Malvacece. There are several distinct species of cotton plants, and a great many varieties. Some are herbaceous annuals, others shrubs three or four feet in height, and others attain a height of from fifteen to twenty feet. The stems are smooth or hairy, leaves either three or five lobed, fine shaped, cordate, blunt, or lanceo- late. The flowers are large, with yellow or white petals, and a purplish center, and are succeeded by pointed pods, which, on coming to maturity, burst, and display a profusion of white or yellowish down that forms the cot- ton of commerce. In the center of this down are contained the seeds, varying in number from ten to thirty, according to the species, of a dark brown color, and of a very oily nature. The early history of the Cotton plant is involved in obscurity, nor can it be ascer- tained in what region of the globe it was first cultivated and applied to purposes of domes- tic use. Herodotus, who wrote about 450 B. C, and who had traveled into Egypt, and was familiar with its productions, does not describe the Cotton plant as existing there, but gives some obscure hints of such a plant being in use in India. The inhabitants of India, he says, possess a kind of plant which, instead of fruit, produces wool of a finer and better quality than that of sheep ; of this the natives make their clothes. When describing the corselet of Amasis, he accordingly desig- nated Cotton under the name of tree-wool, a combination of terms which the Germans use for the same substance at the present day. His particularly detailing the linen garments of the Egyptians, and their mode of weaving linen cloth, as differing from that of the Greeks, while he omits all mention of the manufacture of cotton garments, would lead us to suppose that the Cotton plant was unknown to the Egyptians ; and that, if they possessed Cotton cloth at all, it was imported from India. Pliny, however, in his work on Natural History, describes the Cotton plant as a small shrub growing in Upper Egypt, called by some Xylon, and by others Gossypium, the seeds of which are surrounded by a soft downy substance of a dazzling whiteness, and Which is manufactured into cloth much esteemed by the Egyptian priests. This was five centuries after the time in which Herodo- tus wrote, and during this period the plant may have become more common. From Pli- ny's account, it would not appear that Cotton was much used at Rome, even in the first cen- tury of the Christian era, nor for many centu- ries afterward was its use introduced into Europe. But in the ninth century the Ara- bians, who were then in possession of Egypt, appear to have used Cotton cloth for their ordinary garments; for one of the first remarks of two Arabian travelers, who went to China at that period, was, that the Chinese, instead of weaving Cotton, as they and their countrymen did, chiefly used silk stuffs. It is probable, then, that the Cotton plant first came from Persia to Egypt, whence it spread into Asia Minor, and latterly to the islands of the Archipelago. In the time of Tournefort, who visited these islands, Milo was celebrated GOU for its Cotton. The Cotton now raised in small quantities in the Cyclades possesses that dazzling whiteness which Pliny describes as the property of the Egyptian Cotton. The Cotton plant has been grown from an early period, in the West Indies, in ihe Southern States, and in South America. Whether any of the species are natives of this Continent, it is difficult to say ; the probability is, however, that it was introduced, soon after the dis- covery of the West Indies, into these settle- ments, from Smyrna. It should be stated, however, that Cotton cloth has been found in the tombs of the Incas of Peru. The exten- sive cultivation of Cotton in this country is of a recent date. In 1784, eight bags were sent from this country to England, which were seized, on the ground that so much Cotton could not be produced in the United States. Since the Revolution, the increase of produc- tion has been steady and rapid. Of the spe- cies under cultivation, G. Barbadense is the one grown in the United States, and of this there are two varieties, the Upland Cotton, or short staple, and the Sea Island Cotton, or long staple. This species is a native of India, whence it was transplanted into the West Indies, and from there into the United States. G. herbaceum, the herbaceous Cotton plant, is the species cultivated throughout Europe and Asia. It is an annual plant, growing to the height of about twenty inches. The Tree Cotton, G. arboreum, is a perennial species, growing from fifteen to twenty feet high, and is considerably grown in the African Colonies, but does not yield a very fine staple. A great impetus has been given of late years to the cultivation of Cotton in India, and its devel- opment has been largely increased by the opening up of railroads, etc., and by the intro- duction of American varieties, and of new forms adapted for special purposes. Among these latter may be mentioned the crossed seedlings produced by Major Trevor Clarke, a collection of which exhibited in the London International Exhibition in 1872 caused con- siderable excitement at the time. G. Bahma, Bahma, is a variety that originated in Egypt several years ago, and is said to be a hybrid between the Egyptian Cotton and Hibiscus esculentus. It differs from other Cottons in its larger size and its erect, almost unbranched habit. It also produces more Cotton. Avery coarse growing species, G. bombyx-cetta, is common in the West Indies, said to be indig- enous there. The trunk of this species is sufficiently large to hollow out for canoes, and yields a valuable lumber ; the Cotton is of a coarse, inferior quality. The general uses of this staple are too important and well known to require comment. The seed has, however, a value but little known. Near the City of New York there is an oil mill that makes daily several thousand gallons of oil from Cotton seed, which is sent to Italy, there bottled, and sent all over the world, and sold as a very superior quality of Olive Oil, for table use. The seed is also valuable as a manure. Go-to-bed-at-noon. See Tragopogon. Goua'nia. Chaw Stick. Named after A. Gouan, once Professor of Botany at Montpeher. Nat. Ord. Rhamnacece. A genus of climbing tropical shrubs, con- taining upward of twenty species. The most GLOXINIA GLADIOLUS SAUNDKKSONI. GLADIOLUS COLVILLI AI.P.A. GYNERIUM ARGKNTEUM (PAMPAS GRASS). '73 AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 173 GOU interesting, G. Domingensis, is a common creeper in the West Indies and Brazil. In Jamaica it is called Chaw Stick, on account of its thin, flexible stems being chewed as an agreeable stomachic, and tooth brushes are also made by cutting pieces of Chaw Stick to a convenient length and fraying out the ends ; and a tooth powder is prepared by pulveriz- ing the dried stems. It is said to possess febrifugal properties; and on account of its pleasant bitter taste is commonly used for flavoring different cooling beverages. Gout-weed. Common name for JEgopodmm podograria. Gourd. The genus of Cucurbita. Bitter. Citrullus Colocynthis. Bottle. Lagenaria vulgaris. Dish-Rag, or Washing. Luffa cylindrica, and L. acutangula. Orange. Cucurbita aurantia. Scarlet-fruited. Cocdnea indica. Snake. Trichosanthes anguina. Wax or White. Benincasa (Cucurbita) ceri- fera. Gove'nia. Named after J. R. Gowen, a distin- guished horticulturist and hybridizer of plants. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A small genus of interesting terrestrial Orchids from Mexico. The flowers are borne on spikes from one and a half to two feet high, in the same manner as the Bletia. The colors are mostly shades of yellow, beautifully marked with crimson. Propagation and cul- ture the same as for Bletia. Go wan. Bellis perennis or Daisy. Gracilis. Slender, applied to the parts which are long and narrow. Graft Hybrids. This is the term used by Mr. Chas. Darwin, in his work, "Plants and Animals under Domestication," to describe what he believes to be an amalgamation of the stock and the graft, so that there is a seeming blending of the individualities in some few cases which he cites. This theory of Mr. Darwin's is by no means universally accepted, and it is to be regretted that it should have been propounded with such a sparse array of examples in illustrating such a novel theory. Grafting. This differs only from budding (which see), inasmuch as the operation is usually performed on deciduous plants when in a partially dormant condition, and that larger portions of the shoots are taken. The different forms of grafting are known as "wedge," "whip," "side" grafting, etc. Wedge grafting consists in sawing off the stock to be grafted, and shaping the "cion" or " graft" like a wedge, splitting the sawed off stock an inch or two, and inserting the wedge-shaped graft, being careful to let the bark of the graft join the bark of the stock. If the stock is more than an inch in diameter a graft should be placed on each side. The whip graft is used for small stocks, which are of the thickness of the cions to be grafted. The stock and cion are cut with a similar slope, an inch or more in length ; to best keep them in place before being covered with wax or wax cloth, it is well to cut what is called a "tongue" in the center of each, so that, when placed together, the cion will keep in place, the tongues being interlocked. The GRA whip system is that mostly used in root graft- ing Roses, Apples, Clematis, etc. After tho cion has been attached to the stock by any of the methods of grafting, it is covered over either with a mixture of adhesive clay and cow dung or grafting wax, so as to keep it in position until it starts to grow. Grafting wax can be purchased in most seed stores, but when wanted in quantity it is made according to the following formula: four pounds resin, three pounds bees-wax, and two pounds of tallow. This, heated and mixed, will give the grafting wax of the shops. A convenient way to use the grafting wax is to dip in it thin calico or muslin cloth, which can be torn into strips readily, and wrapped around the graft so as to exclude the air. Grains of Paradise. See Amomum. Gram or Chick Pea. See Cicer. Gramina'ceae. A natural order of annual or perennial herbaceous plants, with round, usually hollow-jointed stems; narrow alter- nate leaves, having a split sheath, and often a ligule at the summit, and flowers arranged in spikes or panicles, perfect or imperfect. The flowers are composed of a series of leaves or bracts, the outer called glumes, enclosing one or more flowers. Grasses are widely dis- tributed over the world, forming about one- twenty-second of all known plants. "They contain in their herbage, and especially in their seeds, nutritious principles, which entitle them to the first rank among plants useful to man, and which are of the greatest importance in an economic and political point of view. The Cerealia are : Wheat, Triticum sativum ; Rye, Secale cereale ; Barley, Hordeum vulgare, H. distichum, etc. ; Oats, Avena sativa, all cultivated by the Caucasian race in the northern and temperate regions. Rice, Oryza sativa, and Millet, Panicum miliaceum, origin- ated among the Asiatic races. The Sugar- cane, Saccharumofficinarum is in all probability a native of tropical Asia ; it has been culti- vated from very ancient times in the East Indies. A considerable number of GraminacecB are medicinal, viz., Triticum repens, T. glau- cum, T. junceum, Cynodon Dactylon, Andro- pogon bicornis, Arundo Donax, Calamagrostis," etc. (Decaisne and Le Maout). The grains of Coix LachrymcB are used as beads under the nams of Job's Tears. The Tussack grass of the Falkland Islands, is Dactylis cwspitosa. Some grasses, as Calama- grostis (Ammophila) arenaria, and others, are useful in binding the loose sand on the sea- shore. Darnel grass, Lolium temulentum, has reputed poisonous qualities, and some think that it is the Tares of Scripture. This order also furnishes numerous ornamental garden plants, some of the most striking of which are Arundinaria falcata, and A. metahe, Arundo Donax (the Provence Cane), Bambusa Arundi- naceaz, Panicum plicatum variegatum, Zea Japonica variegata, etc. There are about 300 genera of grasses, and 4,000 species. Gramma'nthes. From gramma, writing, and anthos, a flower ; marks like V being on the corolla. Nat. Ord. Crassulacece. Succulent herbaceous plants, natives of the Cape of Good Hope. Seeds sown in the green-house in January will make very showy and interesting plants for rock-work during summer. The flowers closely resemble those 174 HENDEESON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS GRA of Crassula, to which it is allied, in 1774. Introduced Grammatoca'rpus. A synonym of Scyphanthus, which see. Grammatophy'llum. From grammata, letters, and phyllon, a leaf ; referring to the markings on the leaves. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. The species of this genus are but few in number, and are rarely seen in collections of Orchids, because of the difficulty in manage- ment. Those who have had the good fortune to flower them say that it is at the expense of years of patience and labor that their rare and curious flowers are produced. They are natives of Manilla ; introduced in 1837. Granadi'lla. A name given in the West Indies to the fruits of different species of the genus Passiflora. Granular. Divided into little knobs and knots, as the roots of Saxifraga granulata ; covered- as if with small grains. Grape. Vitis vinifera. Like many extensively cultivated plants, the native country of the Grape is unknown, or at least doubtful. It is among the plants spoken of in the Books of Moses, and it appears to have been cultivated and the fruit used then as at the present day. Noah planted a vineyard, and wine is men- tioned as a beverage among the earliest nations of the world. The oldest profane writers ascribe its introduction to their gods. According to the tradition of the Egyptians, Osiris first paid attention to the Vine, and instructed other men in the manner of plant- ing and using it. The inhabitants of Africa ascribe the same gift to the ancient Bacchus. Wine was among the first oblations to the Divinity. " Melchisedek, King of Salem, brought forth bread and wine, and he was the priest of the Most High God." Humboldt says the Vine does not belong to Europe, but is indigenous in Asia between the Black Sea and the Caspian, on Mount Ararat and on the Taurus. In the forests on Mongrelia it flour- ishes in great magnificence, climbing to the tops of the highest trees, bearing bunches of fruit of delicious flavor. We have no authentic account of the introduction of the Vine into the present grape-growing countries, or of the origin of the many varieties now under cultivation. More than one hundred varieties have been introduced into our graperies, and into the Southern States and California, where the climate will permit of their being grown in the open air. The Grapes grown through- out the United States have their origin in the species indigenous to North America. V. lab- rusca, the Fox Grape, common in swampy grounds from Maine to the Gulf of Mexico, is the parent of our best garden varieties, among others the Isabella, which originated in South Carolina, and the Concord, which originated in Massachusetts. The Catawba had its parentage in V. riparia, the common Frost Grape, or at least it is so accredited. The Diana, a seedling of the Catawba, was raised by Mrs. Diana Crehore of Boston. The introduction of new varieties, from seed, of various crossings, is being rapidly carried on by our enterprising horticulturists. See Vitis. Grape Hyacinth. See Muscari. Graptophy'llum. Caricature Plant. From grapho, to write, and phyllon, a leaf ; refer- GRA ring to the markings on the leaves. Nat. Ord. Acanthacece. A genus of tropical shrubs, inhabiting both hemispheres. A few of the species have been introduced into the hot-house for the beauty of their variegated foliage and their racemes of white flowers. G. hortense, syn. G. pictum, is properly called the Caricature Plant, from the fact that, when its leaf is held up to the light, it often presents nearly an exact profile of the human face. G. h. lurido-sanguinea, a more recent introduction, is a very distinct and beautiful species, with rich rose-colored spots or markings. Propagated by cuttings ; first introduced in 1780. Grass. A general name for all graminaceous plants. Arrow. Triglochin. Artificial. A name given by agriculturists to various fodder plants, as Clover, LMcerne, Sainfoin, Sorghum, etc. Awned Hair. Muhlenbergia capillaris. Barnyard. Panicum Cms Galli. Bear. Yucca filamentosa. Beard. The genus Andropogon and Polypogon Monspeliensis. Bermuda. Cynodon Dactylon. Black. Alopecurus agrestis. Black Oat. Stipa avenacea. Blue. Poa compressa. Blue Eyed. Sisyrinchium Bermudianum. Bottle. Setaria glauca. Brome. The genus Bromus. Canary. Phalaris Canariensis, the grain of which is the Canary seed of commerce Cat's-Tail. Phleum pratense. China. The fibre of the Ramie, Bozhmeria nivea. Cock's-Comb. Cynosurus echinatus. Cock's-Foot. Daclylis glomerata. Cord. Sparlinia stricta. Cotton. The genus Eriophorum. Couch. Triticum repens. Crab. Panicum sanguinale, it is also applied to Eleusine, and Salicornia herbacea. Crested Hair. Koeleria cristata. Cuckoo. Luzula campestris. Darnel. Lolium temulentum. Deer. Rhexia Virginica. Dog. Triticum caninum. Dog's Tail. Cynosurus cristatus. Dog's Tooth. Triticum caninum. Drop-Seed. Sporobolus and Muhlenbergia. Eel. Zostera and Vallisneria spiralis. Elephant's. Typha elephantina. False Red-Top. Poa serotina. Feather. Stipa pennata. Fescue. The genus Festuca. Finger. The genus Digitaria. Fiorin. Agrostis vulgaris, and commonly ap- plied to A. alba and A. stolonifora. Flote or Float. Glyceria fluitans. Four-leaved. Paris quadrifolia. Foxtail. Alopecurus pratensis. Frog. Salicornia herbacea. Gama. Tripsacum dactyloides. Ginger. Andropogon Nardus. Goat's beard. Galium aparine, also Potentilla anserina, and Polygonum aviculare. Great Goose. Asperugo procumbens. Grip. Galium aparine. Guinea. Panicum jumentorum. Hair. Aira; also Trichochloa, and Agrostis scabra. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 175 GRA Grass. Hard. Sclerochloa; also, ^Egilops, and Dactylis glomerata. Hare's-Tail. Lagurus ovatus. Heath. Triodia decumbens. Hedgehog. Echinochloa ; also applied to Cen- chrus. Herd's, of New England. Phleum pratense. Herd's, of Pennsylvania. Agrostis vulgaris. Holy. Hierochloa borealis. Horn. The genus Ceratochloa. Horn of Plenty. Cornucopias cucullatum. Indian. A local name for Sorghum nutans. Indian Doob. Cynodon Dactylon. Knot. Triticum repens; also, Illecebrum, and Polygonum aviculare. Knot, of Shakespeare. Agrostis stolonifera. Lemon. Andropogon Schcenanthus. Lob, or Lop. Bromus mollis. Love. Eragrostis slegans. Lyme. Elymus arenarius. Maiden-hair. Briza media. Manna. Glyceria fluitans. Marsh. The genus Spartina. Mat. Nardus stricta; also, Ammophila aren- aria. Meadow. Poa pratensis, and P. trivialis. Millet. Milium; also, Sorghum vulgare, Pani- cum miliaceum, Setaria Italica, etc. Monkey. A commercial name for the whale- bone-like fibre of Attaleafunifera. Moor. Sesleria ccerulea. Mountain, of Jamaica. Andropogon bicomis. Mouse-ear Scorpion. Myosotis palustris. Mousetail. Festuca Myurus, also Alopecurus agrestis. Myrtle. Acorus Calamus. Nut. Cyperus rotundus var. Hydra. Oat. Arrhenatherum avenaceum ; also various species of Avena. Of Parnassus. Parnassia palustris. Orange. Hypericum Sarothra. Orchard. Dactylis glomerata. Pampas. Gynerium argenteum. Panic. Panicum; also Ehrharta panicea. Para. A commercial name of the Piassiba fibre of Attaleafunifera. Pepper. Pilularia globulifera ; also a local name for Lepidium. Poverty. Aristida dichotoma. Quake or Quaking. The genus Briza. Quick or Quitch. Triticum repens. Rattlesnake. Glyceria canadensis. Red-top. Agrostis vulgaris. Reed. Arundo ; also Calamagrostis and Pha- laris. Reed Bent. The genus Calamagrostis. Rib. Plantago lanceolata. Ribbon. Phalaris arundinacea variegata. Rice Cut. Leersia oryzoides. Rope. The genus Restio. Rush. The genus Vilfa. Rye. Lolium perenne. Salt. Spartina juncea. Scorpion. Myosotis arvensis. Scurvy. Cochlearia officinalis. Sea. Ruppia maritima. Sea Mat. Ammophila arenaria. Sea Oat. Uniola paniculata. Sea Spur. Glyceria distans. Seneca. Hierochloa borealis. Shave. Equisetum hyemale. Shore. Littorella lacustris. Silk. Eriocoma cuspidata. Slender. Leptochloa mucronata. Soft. Holcus mollis. GRA Grass. Sour. Panicum leucophamm, also a local name for Rumex acetosa. Spear. Poa annua, etc. Spike. Uniola latifolia. Spiked Quaking. Brizopyrum spicatum. Squirrel-Tail. Hordeum jubatum. Star. Callitriche; also, the local name for Hypoxis and Aletris. Striped. Phalaris arundinacea variegata. Sweet. The genus Glyceria. Sword. Arenaria segetalis, and Melilotis sege- talis. Thin. Agrostis elata and perennans. Timothy. Phleum pratense. Toad. Juncus bufonius. Tussack or Tussock. Dactylis ccaspitosa. Vanilla. Hierochloa borealis. Velvet. Holcus lanatus. Vernal. Sweet. Anthoxanthum odoratum. Viper's. The genus Scorzonera. Water Scorpion. Myosotis palustris. Water Star. Leptanthus gramineus. Wheat. Triticum. White. Leersia Virginica. Whitlow. Draba Verna and Saxifraga tridac- tylites. Wild Oat. Danthonia spicata. Wind. Apera Spica-venti. Wire. Eleusine indica, and Poa compressa. Wire Bent. Nardus stricta. Wood. Sorghum {Andropogon) Nutans; also Luzula sylvatica. Wood Reed. Cinna arundinacea. Woolly. Lasiagrostis. Woolly Beard. The genus Erianthus. Worm. Spigelia ; also Sedum album. Yard. Eleusine Indica. Yellow-eyed. The genus Xyris. Grass Cloth Plant. Bcehmeria nivea. Grasses. Ornamental. A number of hardy and half-hardy perennial grasses, as well as num- erous annual species are cultivated for the double purpose of rendering the mixed flower- border or shrubbery attractive during the summer and for the use of the spikes or pani- cles in a dried state for winter bouquets. The perennial sorts, such as Arundo conspicua Eulalia Japonica, E. Japonica variegata, E. zebrina, Arundo donax, and A. d. versicolor, Gynerium argenteum, Gymnothrix (Pennisetum) latifolium, Pennisetum longistylum, Stipa pen- nata, and others, make splendid groups for lawn decoration, either singly or in large masses. Of the annual species a good selec- tion is Agrostis elegans, A. pulchella, and A. nebulosa, Briza maxima and B. minor, Bromus brizaformis, Hordsum jubatum, Eragrostis ele- gans, Coix lachrymal and Lagurus ovatus. If the hardier sorts are sown in the fall and wintered over, they will make finer plants, and produce larger spikes the following sea- son. Grass Tree. rhma. Australian. The genus Xanthor- Gra'tiola. Hedge Hyssop. A genus of Scro- phulariacece, consisting of pretty, free-flower- ing, hardy herbaceous plants, found in central Europe North America, and Australia. G. officinalis, the Hedge Hyssop of the herbalists, was in former times called Gratia Dei, on account of its active medicinal properties. Haller says that the abundance of this plant in some of the Swiss meadows renders it dangerous to allow cattle to feed in them. 176 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS GRA Gravel Root. A common name for Eupatorium purpureum. Graveolens. Strong-scented; having a smell which is unpleasant because of its intensity. Grave'sia. Named in honor of G. L. Graves, a botanical collector of Madagascar. Nat. Ord. Melastomacece. A genus of dwarf, showy herbs, natives of Madagascar. The leaves of G. guttata are of a rich dark-green color, profusely dotted with rose-colored spots, arranged in lines. It was introduced in 1864. There are several very beautiful varieties of this species. Propagated by cuttings in heat. Syn. Bertolonia. Grease Wood. The genus Sarcobatus. Great Celandine. The common name for Chelidonium majus. Great Laurel. A name given to Magnolia grandi- flora Greek Valerian. The common name of Pole- monium cceruleum. Green Brier. See Smilax. Green Dragon. A popular name for Ariaazma Dracontium. Green Fly. See Insects. Green-house. The name generally given to all kinds of glass structures. For private pur- poses the styles are so varied that it would be useless, in this work to give examples, as in such cases it is always economy to employ a competent green-house architect; but for commercial purposes, in our own establish- ment, we use exclusively the ridge and fur- row style ; that is, the houses are joined to each other by a ten or twelve-inch gutter. Each house is twenty feet wide at base, four feet high at the gutter, and eleven feet high at the apex, giving an angle to the gla^s roof of about thirty-five degrees, which slopes equally to east and west. When green-houses are wanted for forcing Roses or other flowers in winter, it is better not to connect them together, but to make them say twenty feet wide at base, the roof forming what is known as a three-quarter span ; that is, the long slope of the roof, which must face south, is about eighteen or nineteen feet long, while the short slope to the north is six or seven feet, both at an angle of about thirty degrees. The front or south wall should be four or five feet high, and the rear or north wall seven or eight feet high, making the apex from the ground level about ten feet. Our space will not admit of details of construction, for which see our work, Practical Floriculture, pages 76 to 105. Greens. The common name for Spinach, Cab- bage, Kale, and other leafy esculents. Green Violet. See Solea. Gre'ggia. A genus of Grucifera, from New Mex- ico, discovered by Dr. Gregg, who died in California through over-exertion in scientific pursuits. G. camporum, the only species, so named from its growing on the campos, or plains, has the habit of a wall-flower, and all its parts clothed with a hoary pubescence. Its pink-and-white flowers are something like a stock (Matthiola), and are borne in loose ter- minal racemes. Grevi'llea. Named after G. F. Greville, a patron of botany. Nat. Ord. Proteaceai. GRI An extensive genus of green-house shrubs and evergreen trees, natives of New Holland. The species include lofty trees more than 100 feet high, and low-growing shrubs. G. robusta, the Silk Oak, is a magnificent tree, with orange-colored flowers. G. Forsterii is a similar species with bright scarlet flowers, that are produced when the tree is young. The foliage of the species is as varied as the size of the plants ; on some of the trees it is needle-shaped; others have leaves closely resembling those of the Acanthus. Several of the species are under cultivation in the green- house, and are considered acquisitions. Young plants are obtained by cuttings or from seed. Gre'wia. Named in honor of Nehemiah Grew, M.D., famous for his work on the " Anatomy of Vegetables." This is an extensive genus of Liliacem, consisting of shrubs or small trees, confined mostly to the warmer regions of the Old World. Flowers yellow or rarely purple. The wood of the Dhamnoo, G. elastica, is very strong and elastic, and is much prized by the natives for making their bows. Most of the species have a fibrous inner bark, which is commonly employed for making fishing nets, ropes, etc. Gre'yia. Named in honor of Sir George Grey, who was Governor-General of Cape Colony when the species was discovered. Nat. Ord. SapindacecB. G. Sutherlandi, the only species, is a beautiful and distinct moderate-sized tree, found in the mountains about Port Natal. Its foliage is similar to a Pelargonium. The flowers are borne in dense axillary racemes, and are of a brilliant crimson color, giving to the plant a very handsome appearance. Flowering as it does from the old wood, full exposure to the sun is required to ripen the. wood thoroughly, after which a season of rest is necessary, dur- ing which water may be withheld, giving only enough to keep the wood plump. When started into growth, it will flower freely. It was introduced in 1859, and is propagated by seeds, or cuttings of the half-ripened wood. Gri'as. Anchovy Pear. From grao, to eat ; the fruit being eatable. Nat. Ord. Myrtacece. G. caulijlora is a tall, unbranched tree, with leaves two or three feet long, and bearing large whitish flowers, which proceed from the stem. The fruit has much the taste of the Mango, and is highly esteemed in the West Indies, where it is indigenous. The tree is largely cultivated, not only for its fruit, but for its highly ornamental character. Griffi'nia. Named after W. Griffin, a patron of botany. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. A small genus of handsome bulbous plants from South America, producing large umbels of beautiful bright purple flowers. They require green-house treatment, and should have complete rest during winter. In March repot them, and they will immediately com- mence growth, and will require plenty of heat, light, air, and water. They are increased by offsets ; introduced in 1822. Grinde'lia. In honor of David H. Grindel, a German botanist. A genus of Composite, containing nearly twenty species, found, most generally, in Texas and Mexico. They are biennial, or perennial, suffruticose plants, with branching stems, and yellow flower heads, solitary, at the ends of the branches, AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 177 GRI and from one to two inches in diameter. They are easily cultivated, and are increased by seeds or cuttings. Griseli'nia. Named in honor of Frank Griselini, an Italian botanist. Nat. Ord. Comacece. A small genus of evergreen shrubs, nearly allied to Aucuba which they resemble in habit. They have shining coriaceous leaves, and small inconspicuous flowers, produced in ter- minal panicles. They are natives of New Zealand, Chili, and Brazil, and are of com- paratively recent introduction. Their hardi- ness has not been tested in this country, but it is not likely they would endure the rigors of our winters, north of Virginia. Gromwell. See Lithospermum. Grono'via. Named in honor of Dr. Gronovius, a botanist at Leyden, and a friend of Linnaeus. Nat. Ord. Loasacem. G. scandens, the only known species, is a scandent herb resembling the Bryony. It is found from Texas to Venezuela, and was in- troduced in 1751, but is little cultivated. Grossularia'ceae. A natural order, now in- cluded by Bentham and Hooker with Saxifra- gacecB. Ground Cherry. See Physalis. Ground Hemlock. See Taxus. Ground Ivy. See Nepeta Glechoma. Ground Laurel. See Epigcea repens. Ground Nut. See Apios tuberosa. Ground Pine. A popular name of Lycopodium dendroideum. Ground Pink. See Phlox. Ground Plum. A popular name of the fruit of Astragalus earyocarpus. Groundsel. See Senecio vulgaris. Groundsel Tree. See Baccharis halimifolia. Gua'iacum. Lignum Vitas. The original name in South America. Nat. Ord. ZygophyllacecB. A genus of ornamental trees with pretty blue flowers. G. officinale furnishes the well- known wood Lignum Vitw, and also the drug known as Gum Guaiacum, which is procured by notching the trunk, and allowing the exuding juice to harden. It is a native of the West Indies. Guava. See Psidium. Guelder Rose. Viburnum opulus. Guernsey Lily. Nerine Sarniensis. Guevi'na. The native name. Nat. Ord. Proteacew. G. Avellana, the only species, is a tree of medium size, a native of Chili and Peru. The flowers are in simple, erect racemes two to four inches long, and these are succeeded by round edible drupes, inclosing almond-like seeds, known as Chilian nuts. The latter have an agreeable, somewhat oily taste, while the fleshy part is made a substitute for the Pomegranate. Syn. Quadria. This tree is hardy in the Southern States. Guilie'lma. Named in honor of Queen Wilhelmine Carolina of Bavaria. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. A genus of palms confined to the tropical regions of South America, and containing three species which have tall, slender trunks armed with exceedingly sharp black spines. The large pinnate leaves have spiny leaflets and foot- stalks. G. speciosa, the Peach Palm, is cul- GUZ tivated on the banks of the Amazon and Rio Negro. Its edible fruits, which are about the size of Apricots, and bright-scarlet in color, are borne in large drooping bunches, and form a large portion of the food of the natives. The young plants make very handsome specimens for the green-house. Guinea Corn. See Sorghum vulgare. Guinea Grass. See Sorghum halapense. Guinea Hen Flower. A name given to Fritil- laria Meleagris. Gum. A vegetable secretion which may be detected in the sap of most plants, and which is excreted by many, and hardens on their surface. Gum Cistus. Cistus ladaniferus. Gum Guaiacum. See Guaiacum. Gum Tragacanth. Sterculia Tragacantha. Gum Tree. Various species of Eucalyptus, which see. Sour. Nyssa multiflora. Sweet. Liquidambar styracifiua. Gu'nnera. In honor of J. E. Gunner, a Swedish bishop and botanist. Nat. Ord. Haloragacece. A small genus of half-hardy herbaceous plants, natives of South America and the Sandwich Islands. G. scabra, has been intro- duced into the English gardens, and is re- markable for its ragged, rhubarb-like leaves, which are fully three feet across, borne on stout, thorny stems. The plant is also notable for its remarkable size; a good specimen being from four to five feet high, and eight to ten feet in diameter, and forming an excellent subject for the sub-tropical garden. It is propagated by seeds, or careful division. Gusta'via. Named after Gustavus III. of Sweden. Nat. Ord. BarringtoniacecB. A genus of fine evergreen trees and shrubs, with large, handsome, glossy leaves and showy white flowers, tinged with pink, some- times five or six inches across, and not unlike those of some Magnolias, disposed in race- mes or umbels at the ends of the twigs. The fruits are somewhat fleshy and apple-like. G. gracillima, has a smooth, slender, woody stem, and is a magnificent ornamental plant, introduced from the United States of Colum- bia by M. Roezl. The flowers grow from the axils of the leaves of the young plants, and from the leafless parts of the trunk in the older ones. They are solitary or in pairs, four inches in diameter, of a beautiful rose color, consisting of eight petals, with the yellow incurved staminal tube bearing numer- ous purple anthers in a ring of an inch or more across. This species was introduced in 1874, and is propagated by cuttings of well- ripened wood. Gutta Percha. See Isonandra. Guttatus. Spotted. Guzma'imia. Named after A. Guzman, a Span- ish naturalist. Nat. Ord. Bromeliacece. Green-house perennials, natives of South America. G. tricolor is a very handsome species, with flowers on a spike, concealed by the bracts, the lowermost of which are green, while the others are scarlet. It requires or- dinary green-house treatment, and is prop* gated by suckers. 178 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS GYM Gymne'ma. From gymnos, naked, and nema, a filament ; in reference to the stamens. Nat. Ord. AsclepiadacecB. G. lactiferum is the Cow Plant of Ceylon, the milk of which is used as food by the natives. The species are green-house ever- green twiners, producing clusters of yellow flowers from the axils of the leaves. They are allied to the Stephanotis, and require the same treatment. Gyninocla'dus. Kentucky Coffee Tree. From gymnos, naked, and klados, a branch ; in refer- ence to the soft young wood, devoid of buds. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. G. Canadensis, the only species, is an orna- mental, hardy, deciduous tree, growing fifty to sixty feet high. It is one of our most beautiful shade trees, and is planted to a con- siderable extent on the streets in Washington, D. C. ; it is also valuable for its hard tough timber. The fresh leaves, macerated and sweetened, are occasionally used as a poison for house-flies ; the seeds were used formerly as a domestic substitute for coffee. Common from New York, south and west. Gymnogra'mma. From gymnos, naked, and gramma, writing; in reference to the spore cases. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. A genus of very beautiful Ferns, requiring the warm green-house to grow them. In some of the species the under surface of the fronds is profusely covered with a rich yellow or white farinose powder, which gives them the name of Gold or Silver Ferns ; they are fre- quently seen in cultivation on account of the beauty of their fronds. This genus contains two of the very few known annual Ferns, G. chmrophylla, a West Indian plant, and G. lep- tophylla, which is found scattered over nearly the whole of the temperate regions of the globe. Gymnosperm. Bearing naked seeds. Gymnosta'chyum. From gymnos, naked, and stachys, a spike ; probably on account of the absence of the bracteoles. Nat. Ord. Acan- thaeecB. A genus of ornamental evergreen erect herbs, natives of the East Indies, and the Malayan Archipelago. The leaves of some of the species are beautifully marked. G. venusta is in cultivation under the name of Justicia venusta. Fittonia has been placed under this genus by some authors. Gymnothe'ca. Derivation of name not given. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. A small genus of noble green-house ferns, formerly included in the genus Marratia. G. Raddiana, a native of Brazil, is a very orna- mental fern, requiring a warm house and moist atmosphere for its development. Gy'mnothrix. A genus of grasses, now united with Pennisetum. Gyne'rium. Pampas Grass. From gyne, female, and erion, wool ; the stigmas being wooly. Nat. Ord. Graminacece. A genus of three species of hardy or nearly hardy ornamental grasses, natives of tropical and sub-tropical America. G. argenteum, the Pampas Grass, so called from its being found covering the vast plains or pampas of South America, is the best known species and forms i a most noble and beautiful plant, growing from four to fourteen feet high according to the GYR strength of the plant, the soil or location. There is reason to believe that some varieties are better in habit than others and flower earlier. In such cases it would be better to divide them than to trust to seedlings. There are a num- ber of varieties, some of a delicate rosy color, one variegated, and several dwarf and neat in habit. If convenient, they should have a sheltered position on the lawn or in the flower garden so as to prevent as much as possible the constant searing away of the foliage which occurs whenever the plant is much exposed. Its bright silvery plumes also show off much better when backed up with shrubs or some of the finer evergreens. It should be planted about the beginning of April and mulched with rotted manure, watered copiously in hot dry weather. This splendid Grass is not sufficiently hardy at the north without a mulching of dry leaves or litter around the roots. The clumps can be taken up in the fall, and kept in any convenient place away from frost during winter. With the best pos- sible care and culture there cannot be pro- duced such magnificent plumes either north or south, as are grown in southern California, where the plumes are grown largely for the northern and European markets. This species was first introduced in 1848. G. jubatum is very well spoken of, but as yet has not been tried much except in certain favored spots. The leaves resembles those of G. argenteum, but are of a deeper green, and droop elegantly at their extremities. From the center of the tuft and exceeding it by two or three feet, arise numerous stems, each bearing an immense loose panicle of long filamentous silvery flowers of a rosy tint with silvery sheen. It is a native of the republic of Ecuador and blooms earlier than G. argenteum. Gynu'ra. From gyne, female, and oura, a tail ; the stigma being elongated and hispid. Nat. Ord. Composite. A genus of green-house herbaceous peren- nials, numbering about twenty species, the most of which are worthless, weedy plants, natives of the East Indies. G. aurantiaca, has brilliant orange-colored flower-heads, and the leaves and stems covered, over their entire surface, with small hairs of a rich plum- color, more especially the young leaves sur- rounding the flower-heads. It was thought to be a rival for the Coleus for bedding pur- poses, but rusts badly in our dry atmosphere and hot sun; it is easily increased by cut- tings. Gypso'phila. From gypsos, chalk, and phileo, to love ; in reference to the soil most suitable for them. Nat. Ord. CaryophyllacexB. The species of this genus, natives of various parts of Europe and Asia, are characterized more by the grace than by the striking beauty of their flowers. The flowers are small, but are produced in great numbers in loose, graceful panicles. They are plants that are easily cultivated, and are propagated by division and seeds, the latter in the open ground in spring. The flowers of the species are useful in making up in dried bouquets, as they retain their color perfectly during winter. They are also well adapted for rock-work. Gyrate. The same as Circinate (which see) ; curled inward like a crozier. Gyrose. Turned round like a crook. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 179 EL HAB Habena'ria. Rein Orchis. From habena, a rein or thong; referring to the long, strap- shaped spur. Nat. Ord. Orchidacew. A well-known and somewhat extensive genus of terrestrial Orchids, pretty generally- distributed. Our native species have very curiously-shaped flowers, which are generally yellow, but sometimes purple, and occasion- ally white. They grow well in moist, shady situations. Several of the species are to be found in marshy places on the south side of Long Island. Habe'rlea. Named after Karl Haberle, Professor of Botany at Pesth. Nat. Ord. Gesneracece. H. rhodopensis, the only species, is an elegant little hardy herbaceous perennial, not unlike a miniature Gloxinia. Flowers pale lilac, drooping. Admirably adapted for pot or cold-frame culture. Introduced from Rou- melia in 1880. Habit. The general appearance of a plant ; its manner of growth, without reference to details of structure. Habitat. The situation in which a plant grows in a wild state. Habra'nthus. From habros, delicate, and anthos, a flower. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. Very handsome South American bulbs, which like the rest of the order, should have a decided season of rest. They grow best in a rich soil composed of loam, rotted manure, and sand, should be well-drained and have plenty of water when growing or flowering. These plants are found growing in dry, grav- elly places, and are half hardy. They will win- ter in a cold frame with slight protection ; in- troduced in 1821. A number of the plants, formerly included in this genus, are now referred by the authors of the " Genera Plan- tarum" to Hippeastrum and Zephyranthes. Habrotha'mnus. From habros, gay, and tham- nos, a shrub. Nat. Ord. Solanacem. A genus of Mexican shrubs, closely allied to Oestrum, and one of the gayest productions of that country. The panicles of red or purple flowers are borne in abundance, and justify the name applied to them. They are propa- gated by cuttings and were first introduced in 1844. Syn. Oestrum. Hackberry. See Celtis. Hackmatack. A local name for Larix Ameri- cana, the American or Black Larch. Hacque'tea. In honor of B. Hacquet, a German botanist. Nat. Ord. Umbelliferai. H. Epipactis, the only species, is a hardy herbaceous perennial plant, of very dwarf habit, having digitate three-lobed leaves, and a single umbel of small yellow flowers. It is a native of the Alps, and, like most Alpine plants, difficult to manage here. Syn. Dondia. Haema'nthus. From haima, blood, and anthos, a flower ; referring to the color of the spathe and filaments of some species. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. A genus of South American bulbous plants, producing large scarlet, orange, and yellow HAL flowers of very singular appearance. H. coccmea, a beautiful species, does well in the green-house and should be grown in sandy loam and leaf mould. It is a strong grower, requiring considerable room. After making its growth it requires a season of perfect rest, after which it throws up its flower stalk, and should have plenty of water. They grow in fall and winter, and rest during spring and summer. They are propagated by offsets, and were introduced in 1629. Hasmato'xylon. Logwood. From haima, blood and xylon, wood ; Logwood is well-known for its red color. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. H. Campechianum, the well-known Logwood of commerce, is the only representative of this genus. It is a handsome evergreen tree, grow- ing about forty feet high, with a trunk about a foot and a half in diameter. It was first found on the Bay of Campeachy, in Yucatan, whence its specific name. It is also found in other parts of Central America, and has been introduced into and become naturalized in many of the West Indian Islands. Its impor- tance consist in its value as a dye-wood, for which purpose it forms an important article of commerce. Haemodora'ceae. A natural order of perennial herbs with fibrous roots, sword shaped equit- ant leaves, and bearing wooly hairs or scurf on their stems, and flowers. Natives of the Cape of Good Hope, America and New Hol- land. The roots of some of them yield a red color, hence the name of the order. Anigosan- thus, Aletris, Barbacenia and Ha,modorum, are well known genera. Haemodo'rum. Blood-root. From haima, blood, and doron, a gift ; probably in reference to the roots serving as food for the natives of Aus- tralia. Nat. Ord. Hamodoraceae. A genus of pretty green-house perennials, all natives of Australia, with fascicled tubers, and black, red, livid-green, or orange-colored flowers. Increased by division; first intro- duced in 1810. Hairbell. See Campanula. Hair Grass. See Aira. Ha'kea. Named after Baron Hake, a German patron of botany. Nat. Ord. Proteacem. A genus of green-house evergreen shrubs, containing more than a hundred species, all natives of New Holland. The flowers of nearly all are white, produced in axillary clusters. None of tbJer,lspecies has sufficient beauty, either in flo\«jfc>r foliage, to give it a place in ordinary collections. Hale'sia. Silver Bell, or Snowdrop Tree. Named after Dr. Hales, author of "Vegetable Statics." Nat. Ord. Styracacem. A small genus of hardy deciduous shrubs or low-growing trees. One of the species, H. tetraptera, is found on the banks of the Ohio, from Virginia westward, usually in very poor, rocky soil. It is a free flowering shrub, or small tree with beautiful pure white, showy, drooping flowers, on long slender pedicels, much resembling the Snow-drop, whence its 180 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS HAL name ; the seeds are curiously winged. This species improves by cultivation, and thrives •well in a poor soil, preferring one near water. It is readily increased by layering, or from seed. Halimode'ndron. Salt-tree. From halimos, sea-coast, and dendron, a tree ; referring to its native habitat. Nat. Ord. LeguminoscB. H. argenteum, the only species, is a very hardy shrub with silvery hairy leaves and pinkish papilionaceous flowers produced in axillary peduncles in May or June. It is a native of Siberia, in dry salt fields. It is a very elegant shrub for a bleak seacoast, and will thrive better if a little salt is mixed with the soil where it grows. This species is sent out by nurserymen under its former name, Caragana argentea. Halle'ria. Named after Albert Haller, author of several botanical works. Nat. Ord. Scrophu- lariacece. A genus of ornamental green-house ever- green glabrous shrubs, mostly natives of the Cape of Good Hope. H. lucida, the African Honeysuckle, has large reddish drooping flowers, and is the species generally seen in cultivation. It was introduced in 1752, and is easily increased by cuttings. Haloraga'ceae. A natural order of herbs or under-shrubs, often aquatic, with alternate opposite or whorled leaves, and small, fre- quently incomplete flowers. They are found in damp places and slow streams, sometimes submerged, in all parts of the world. The order contains nine genera, and about eighty species. Gimnera, Myriophyllwm, and Hippuris, are examples. Hamamelida'ceae. A small, natural order of shrubs or trees, with alternate, feather-veined leaves, and deciduous stipules, natives of sub- tropical Asia, south Africa, and North America. There are seventeen known genera, including Hamamelis, Bucklandia, and Liquid- ambar. Hamame'iis. The Witch Hazel. From hama, together with, and mela, fruit ; referring to the flowers and fruit being on this tree at the same time. Nat. Ord. HamamelidacecB. H. Virginica is a native shrub, which will grow freely in any soil that is not too rich, though it prefers a dry stony gravel. It has the peculiarity of flowering during winter, beginning to expand its rich, deep yellow flowers just as its leaves are falling off, and dropping its flowers when its branches begin to be reclothed with leaves in spring. The shrub is celebrated for the extract distilled from its bark and roots. Its seeds contain a quantity of oil, andi^re edible, and a strong decoction of its leavjay^is said to be a cure for mad-dog bites. Hamilto'nia. Named after William Hamilton, an eminent American botanist. Nat. Ord. Rubiacem. A genus comprising three or four species of ornamental, evergreen shrubs, natives of India, China, and the Indian Archipelago. Flowers white or blue, fascicled or umbellate ; corolla, funnel-shaped. H. suaveolens, and H. 8cabra, are cultivated for the sake of their white fragrant flowers. Propagated by cut- tings of the half-ripened wood. HAN Hand Glass. This is used to protect Melons, Cucumbers, Tomatoes, or other tender plants, on being set out early in the open ground. They are usually about twenty inches square, with a flat or conical top. A cheaper con- trivance for the same purpose is a wooden frame of about the same size, having a small sash to fit the top. Thousands of these are used by the London and Paris gardeners to . forward Cucumbers and Melons, but they are less used here than formerly, as the growing of vegetables in the Southern States for northern markets renders their use no longer profitable. Hanging Baskets. These are made in a great variety of styles. Those known as ' ' rustic " baskets are made with a wooden bowl to hold the soil, covered with roots of grotesque shapes. They are mostly made of Laurel (Kalmia) roots.which are well fitted to give the basket the necessary rough-looking outer covering. The bowls to hold the soil are from six to fifteen inches in diameter, and of a pro- portionate depth; the three handles form a triangle, meeting at the top, in which an eye is fixed by which to suspend it. Another form is made of wire, and these, when lined with moss to prevent the soil from being washed out, are far the best for the well-being of the plants. Many other beautiful forms are made from pottery ware to represent stumps, logs, rocks, and other natural objects. The plants used for filling hanging baskets of course vary in accordance with the purpose for which they are wanted. If for shady rooms, shady verandas, or shady places out doors, where there is not exposure to drying winds, Mosses (Selaginellas) and Ferns are sometimes used exclusively; or, for the same places, Ivies of all sorts, Tradescantias, Moneywort (Lysimachia), Vincas, Ivy-leaved Geraniums, Smilax, Climbirfg Fern, Fittonias, etc., are plants suited to droop over the sides, while, for the centre, upright plants such as Dracaenas and Crotons of sorts, Caladiums, Marantas, Centaureas, Echeverias, Ferns, Sanchezia nobilis, or any other plants of striking form or foliage may be used. For baskets to be placed in the sunlight, or partial sunlight, Coleus, Begonias, or bright Geraniums should be used as center plants, with Lobelias, Tropeeolums, Petunias, To- renias, Peristrophe, Sedums, etc., to droop. It will be found of great benefit, after setting out the plants in baskets, to cover the soil with an inch or two of (Sphagnum) Moss, to prevent it drying up too quickly ; for when the basket is hung in the air, of course it dries up much quicker than when placed on a shelf in the green-house or on the ground; and one of the main reasons for success with hanging baskets is the careful attention to watering, which is quickest and most thor- oughly done by taking the basket down and immersing it in a tub of water, so that the soil is thoroughly soaked through. This will be necessary once, twice, or thrice a week, according to the position the basket is placed in, the condition of the atmosphere, or the state of the plants ; for, if in a shaded posi- tion, it will require less water ; if the atmos- phere is damp, less ; or if the plants have not attained vigor of growth, less ; the opposite of these conditions, more. The soil used in GREENHOUSE, ROSE HOUSE AND POTTING BOOM. GREENHOUSE AND STOVE-PLANT-HOUSE WITH EQUAL SPANS. THREE-QUARTER SPAN GREENHOUSE FOR ROSE FORCING, ETC. On r _J J 1 GREENHOUSE, GROUND PLAN AND SECTION, WITH FLUE UNDER CENTRIS BENCH. a I o o © ©© Q ■■.... __ — ^ i— , 06>© 10 SCALE?-^ . . GREENHOUSE OR GRAPERY (DETACHED), END VIEW AND PLAN. 181 AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 181 HAP hanging baskets need in no way differ from that used in the general culture of plants. Haploca'rpa Leitchlini. A beautiful little south African composite plant in the way of Gazania. The plants are stemless, and form rosettes of Dandelion-shaped leaves, seven to nine inches long, glossy above, and thickly covered with white closely-pressed silky down, beneath. The flowers are two to three inches across, of a rich golden yellow color, backed with purplish brown. Seeds sown in spring, bloom from mid-summer until frost. Hardenbe'rgia. Named after the Countess of Hardenberg, in Germany, sister to Baron Hugel. Nat. Ord. LeguminoscB. A small genus of green-house evergreen climbers found in southern and western Aus- tralia. They are closely allied to Kennedya, and are desirable green-house plants from the profusion of their flowers, which are mostly purple, arranged in stalked racemes, and nearly as large as those of the pea. The plants are of easy culture and are readily in- creased by cuttings ; introduced about 1800. Hardback. A common name for Spircea tomen- tosa. Hardy Annuals. This term applies to those plants that perfect their growth and ripen seed the same year they are sown in the open ground. See Annuals. Hardy Herbaceous Plants. See Herbaceous Plants. Hare-Bell. See Scilla nutans. Hares-Ear. Bupleurum rotundifolium. Hare's-Poot. Ochroma Lagopus. Hare's-Poot Fern. Davallia Canariensis. Hare's-Tail Grass. Lagurus ovatus. Haricot. The French name for Kidney Beans. Harlequin Flower. African. The genus Spar- axis. Harpa'lium. From Harpalyce, daughter of Lycurgus. Nat. Ord. Composite. H. rigidus, the only species, is Helianthus rigi- dus of Gray, a coarse-growing perennial, with yellow flowers, common in the Western States. Harpalyce. Named after Harpalyce, daughter of Lycurgus. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A small genus of handsome, erect, pinnate- leaved bushes from Mexico and Brazil. H. Braziliana bears handsome, scarlet pea-shaped flowers in a panicle toward the ends of the shoots. The Mexican species are smooth, and bear purple flowers. Propagated by cuttings. Hart-Berries. Vaccinium Myrtillus. Hartford Fern. See Lygodium. Hart's-tongue Fern. See Scolopendrium. Harvest-bells. Gentiana Pneumonanthe. Hartwe'gia. Named after M. Hartweg, court gardener to the Emperor of Austria, and once a collector for the Royal Horticultural Soci- ety. Nat. Ord. Orchidacew. A small genus of epiphytal Orchids, of but little interest, except in large collections. H. purpurea is a very pretty little plant, with spotted foliage, and long, slender spikes of purplish pink flowers. It is an almost con- stant bloomer, growing freely on blocks or cork in an ordinary green-house. It is a HEA native of Mexico, introduced in 1837, and is increased by division of plants in the spring. Hastate. Shaped like the head of a halbert ; enlarged at the base into two lobes directed nearly horizontally, as in the leaf of Sheep's^ Sorrel. Hautbois. Fragaria elatior. A species of Straw- berry. Hawkweed. See Hieracium. Hawo'rthia. Named in honor of A. H. Haworth, a distinguished English botanist. Nat. Ord. LiliaceoR. A pretty and curious genus of succulents, that offer many inducements to the admirers of that class of plants. They are natives of south Africa, and are commonly known as Aloes, from which they were separated. The plants are mostly small, but particularly interesting on account of their upright flow- ers, which are always gay, and the translu- cent leaves of some of the species. They were first introduced in 1727, require the same treatment as the Aloe, and are readily increased from suckers or from seed. See Crataegus. Named after Mr. Haylock, gar- Nat. Ord. Amaryllida- Hawthorn. Haylo'ckia. dener to Dr. Herbert. ceo,. A small bulb from Buenos Ayres, allied to Zephyranthes ; flowers straw-colored, solitary. It is nearly hardy, the protection of a cold frame only being needed in this climate. Propagated by offsets. Introduced in 1829. Hazel Nut. See Corylus. Head. A close terminal collection of flowers, surrounded by an involucre, as in composite flowers. Heal-all. Collinsonia Canadensis and Rhodiola rosea. Heal-all, or All-heal. Prunella vulgaris, which see. Heart of the Earth. Prunella vulgaris. Heart' s-ease. See Viola tricolor. Heath, or Heather. A general name for the genera Erica and Calluna American False. Hudsonia ericoides. Irish. Dabeocia (Menziesia) polifolia. Mediterranean. Erica Mediterranea. (E. carnea.) Sea. Frankenia lawis. Tree. Erica arborea. Cypress. Lycopodium alpinum. Heather. Scotch. Erica cinerea and Calluna vulgaris. Heating by Flues. This is now but little done, except by beginners whose means are limited, or where a temporary green-house is erected. The objection to heating by flues is, that unless carefully constructed, there is danger from fire, or escape of gas injurious to the plants; still, many large green-house estab- lishments are yet heated by flues, in which plants are grown quite as well as by hot- water heating. In constructing the furnace for flue heating, the size of the furnace doors should be from ten to sixteen inches square, according to the size of space to be heated ; the length of the furnace bars from eighteen to forty inches; the furnace should be arched over, the top of the inside of the arch from sixteen 182 HENDEKSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS HEA to twenty-four inches from the bars. The flue will always "draw" better if slightly on the ascent throughout its entire length ; it should be elevated in all cases from the ground, on flags or bricks, so that its heat may be given • out on all sides. The inside measure of the brick flue should not be less than 8x14 inches ; if tiles can be conveniently procured, they are best to cover with ; but, if not, the top of the flue may be contracted to six inches, and covered with bricks. After the flue has been built of brick to twenty-five or thirty feet from the furnace, cement or vitrified drain-pipe, seven, eight, or nine inches in diameter, should be used, as they are not only cheaper, but radiate the heat quicker than the bricks ; they are also much easier constructed and cleaned. Care should be taken that no wood- work is in contact with the flue at any place. We have known cases where wood-work has caught fire after the house had been in opera- tion for years ; but an unusually strong draft intensified the heat, and the charred timber ignited and totally destroyed the green-house and its contents. It should be taken as a safe rule, that wood-work should in no case be nearer the flue or furnace than eight inches. In constructing do not be influenced by what the mechanics will tell you, as few of them have any experience in such matters, and are not able to judge of the dangers resulting from wood-work being in close contact with heated bricks. The position in which the flue is placed in the green-house depends upon its size. Presuming that the green-house to be heated is an equal span of twenty feet wide by fifty feet long, the best way is to start the furnace at the north end, so that the flues will run under the center or middle bench, the top of the furnace being inside the green- house, the fire, of course, being applied in the shed outside. A comparatively new plan of constructing flues is to have the flue run to the end of the green-house, and, returning, connect with the chimney, which is placed on the top of the arch of the furnace. By this method, as soon as a fire is lighted in the furnace, the brick-work forming the arch gets heated, and at once starts an upward draft, which puts the smoke flue into immediate action and maintains it ; hence there is never any trouble about the draft, as in ordinary flues, having the chimney at the most distant point from the furnace. It will be seen that by this plan we not only get rid of the violent heat given out by the furnace, but at the same time it insures a complete draft, and the heated air from the furnace is so rapidly carried through the entire length of the flue, that it is nearly as hot when it enters the chimney as when it left the furnace. This perfect draft also does away with all danger of the escape of gas from the flues into the green-house, which often happens when the draft is not active. Formerly the flues used to be run along one side or end of the green- house, emptying into a chimney placed there; but this method is rarely satisfactory, as the cold outside air, rushing down the chimney, throws back the heated air, particularly in high winds, so as to nearly destroy the heat ; but by the method of constructing the chim- ney on the top of the arch of the furnace, and returning the flue back into it, no such diffi- culty can occur. HEA Heating by Hot-Beds. The preparation of the heating material for the hot-bed is a matter of importance. It should be manure fresh from the horse-stable, and when they can be procured, it is better to mix it with about an equal bulk of leaves from the woods, or refuse hops. If the weather is very cold, the bulk of manure must be of good size, from five to six wagon loads, thrown into a compact round heap, else the mass may be so chilled that heat will not generate. If a shed is con- venient, the manure may be placed there, especially if the quantity is small, to be pro- tected from cold until the heat begins to rise. The heap should be turned and well broken up before being used for the hot-beds, so that the rank steam may escape, and the manure become of the proper "sweetened" condition. It is economy of the heating material to use a pit for the hot-bed. This should be made from two to three feet deep, six feet wide, and of any required length. After the heat- ing material has been packed in the pit to the depth of from twenty to twenty-four inches, according to the purpose for which it is wanted, or the season of the year (the earlier in the season the deeper it is needed), the sashes should be placed on the frame, and kept close until the heat generates in the hot-bed, which will usually take twenty-four hours. Now plunge a thermometer into the manure, and if all is right it will indicate 100° or more ; but this is yet too hot as bot- tom heat for the growth of seeds or plants, and a few days of delay must be allowed until the thermometer indicates a falling of eight or ten degrees, when the soil may be placed upon the manure, and the seeds sown or plants set out in the hot-bed. Amateurs are apt to be impatient in the matter of hot-beds, and often lose their first crop by sowing or planting before the first violent heat has sub- sided. Another very common mistake is in beginning too early in the season. In the latitude of New York nothing is gained by beginning before the first week in March, and the result will be very nearly as good if not begun until a month later. There are two or three important matters to bear in mind in the use of hot-beds. It is indispensable for safety to cover the glass at night with shut- ters or mats until all danger of frost is over ; for it must be remembered that the contents of a hot-bed are always tender, from being forced so rapidly by the heat below, and that the slightest frost will kill them. Again, there is danger of overheating in the daytime by a neglect to ventilate when the sun is shining. As a general rule, it will be safe in all the average days of March, April and May, to have the sash of the hot-bed tilted up from an inch to three inches at the back from 9 A. M. to 4 P. M. Much will, of course, depend upon the activity of the heating ma- terial in the hot-bed, the warmth of the weather, and the character of the plants in the bed, so that we can only give a loose gen- eral rule. Numbers of inexperienced amateur cultivators often lose the entire contents of the hot-bed by having omitted to ventilate their hot-bed, and on their return home from business at night find all the contents scorched up. Or the danger of the other ex- treme is, that the plants are frozen through neglect to cover them at night. A hot-bed AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 183 HEA requires a certain amount of attention, which must be given at the right time, or no satis- factory results can be expected. Heating by Hot Water. This is now the method in use in nearly all well-appointed green-house structures. But little detail need be given, as this branch of heating is done almost exclusively by firms who make a special business of it, and who generally understand the construction and requirements necessary in heating, better than those who employ them usually do ; but there are some points which it is perhaps as well to state. In any section of the country where the thermometer falls below zero, if a green-house, ten feet high, twenty feet wide, and 100 long, is to be heated by hot water, and a night-temperature of sixty degrees is required, there should be not less than eight " runs" of four-inch pipes running the length of the house ; if fifty de- grees are required, six " runs " of pipe ; if forty degrees, four "runs " of pipe. The styles of boilers in use are so varied that we forbear to give any one in particular a preference here. If estimated by the glass surface, one foot in length of four inch pipe is necessary for every three and one half square feet of glass surface, when the temperature is at ten degrees below zero, to keep a temperature of fifty degrees in the green-house. For small green-houses, or such as are attached to dwellings, a simple contrivance known as the Base-burning Water Heater is very convenient. The boiler takes up no more room than an ordinary stove, and the fire requires no more skill or attention than any ordinary base-burning stove, being fed by coal from the top. It can be left with safety ten or twelve hours without any atten- tion. At present prices, a Base-burning Water Heater with pipes sufficient to heat a green- house 10x50 feet, will cost about $200, or for twice that size about $350. Heating by Steam. Few green-houses are as yet heated by steam, though the cost of con- struction is much less, and it is also claimed that there is greater economy in fuel; but though we have had green-houses heated for the past forty years, both in Europe and America, by hot water, steam heating for glass structures has made little progress. It has been successfully done, however, both in Philadelphia, Chicago, and the vicinity of New York, and experiments with it on a large scale are now being tried in several parts of the country. We have but little doubt that in erecting green-houses on an extensive scale at one time it is economy to use steam heat- ing ; but nearly all such structures are progres- sive, a few being added each year, and the heating by the ordinary hot-water pipes is as yet believed by the uninitiated to be the safer mode. It must be some such reason as this, whether right or wrong, that has so long caused green-houses to be heated by hot water in this age of steam. Hebecla'dus. From hebe, pubescence, and klados, a branch, in reference to the hairiness of the young shoots. Nat. Ord. Solanacece. A genus of perennial herbs or sub-shrubs, natives of western tropical America. H. biflorus is an interesting green-house shrub with handsome drooping purple flowers. It was introduced from the Andes of Peru in 1884, HED and is propagated by cuttings of the half- ripened wood. Hebecli'nium. A genus now included with Eupatorium. He'ctea. Named after J. H. G. Hecht, a Prus- sian counsellor, who died in 1837. Nat. Ord. BromeliacecB. A genus of pretty green-house plants, closely allied to Dyckia. The leaves are long, spiny, recurved, and crowded. They are all natives of Mexico. H. Ghiesbrechtii is the most orna- mental and desirable species. Hedeo'ma. Mock Pennyroyal. From hedeoma, the Greek name of Mint. Nat. Ord. Labiatce. The only species of interest in this genus is H. pulegioides, the American Pennyroyal, com- mon in open, barren woods and fields. It has the taste and odor nearly of the true Penny- royal (Mentha Pulegiwm) of Europe. He'dera. The Ivy. The name appears to be derived from hedra, a Celtic word, signifying a cord ; and the English name, Ivy, is derived from iw, a word in the same language, signi- fying green, from its being always green. Nat. Ord. Araliacem. This well-known plant is what botanists call a rooting climber ; that is to say, its stems climb up trees, walls, sides of dwell- ings, or any other suitable object which pre- sents a sufficiently rough surface for their roots to take hold of ; as, unless this is the case, the Ivy, whenever it is rendered heavy by rain or snow, falls down. Whenever, therefore, Ivy is wanted to cover smooth, newly-plastered walls, the Ivy should be nailed against them, or secured with copper wire. The Ivy is remarkable for undergoing a complete change in its leaves when it flow- ers. The barren, or creeping Ivy, which trails along the ground, and roots into it, rarely flowers, and its leaf is deeply cut ; but the tree Ivy, or flowering part, rears itself on high, so as to be fully exposed to the light and air, and the leaves become of an oval shape. H. Canariensis, the giant, or Irish Ivy, as it is sometimes called, though it is a native of the Canaries, is hardier and grows much faster than the common kind ; but the variegated kinds are tender, and grow much slower. Ivy requires a deep and somewhat light soil, into which its roots can penetrate easily; and when grown for any purpose in pots or boxes it should be abundantly supplied with water. Ivy is useful in all cases where a naked space is to be covered with green in a short space of time ; and it is particularly valuable in town gardens, as it will bear the smoke and want of pure air in cities better than most other plants. It should, however, in all close and crowded situations, be abundantly sup- plied with water, and occasionally syringed over the leaves. The gold and silver varie- ties are very beautiful, especially the former, when grown against the chimney of a dwell- ing-house or green-house; but they, like nearly all variegated-leaved plants, are more tender, and require a higher temperature than the plain green-leaved kinds. Increased freely by cuttings. Hedera'ceae. A name given to the Nat. Ord. Araliacem. Hedge Bindweed. Calystegia sepium. Hedge-hog. Ranunculus arvensis. 184 HENDEESON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS HED Hedge-hog Grass. See Cenchrus. Hedge Mustard. Sisymbrium officinale. Hedge Nettle. Stachys sylvatica. Hedges. Many shrubs and plants are available for utilizing for hedges, which are often extensively planted in connection with gar- dens, either for boundary fences, screens, or wind breaks. These are generally selected to suit the special requirements for which the hedge is intended, or, perhaps, different soils or locations may have effect on the selection. The principal plants now used are (deciduous) Osage Orange, European and Californian Privet, Althaeas, Lilacs and Japan Quince ; Beech, Thorns of various sorts, Hornbeam, etc., are also excellent hedge plants, though of rather slow growth. Of evergreens, Amer- ican and Siberian Arborvitees, Betinosporas, and Hemlock make excellent hedges that stand cutting well, and can be kept to any desired height; Norway Spruce also, for a dividing fence or wind break, is unsurpassed. Hedge Violet. Viola sylvatica. Hedy'chhim. Garland Flower. From hedys, sweet, and chion, snow ; in reference to the sweet-scented, snow-white flowers of some of the species. Nat. Ord. Zingiberacece. A beautiful genus, deserving a place wher- ever space can be afforded them in the hot- house. They will attain a height of from three to five feet, and flower profusely, fully prov- ing the fitness of the term, "Garland Flower," applied to them. There are a large number of species, mostly from the East Indies. H. Gardneriaum, one of the most useful of these, grows from three to five feet high, bearing huge spikes of bright lemon-colored flowers, with long scarlet stamens and elegant Canna- like foliage. It is an admirable plant for out- door decoration in summer, and the crowns may be lifted and stored in winter similar to those of the Canna or Dahlia. They are - propagated by divisions of the plants before repotting in the spring. Hedy'sarum. The French Honeysuckle. From hedysaron, the name of a papilionaceous plant described by Theophrastus. Nat. Ord. Legum- inosce. This genus includes many species of hand- some hardy annual and perennial plants, natives of Europe, north Africa, the moun- tainous parts of Asia, and North America. Their flowers are purple, white, and rarely yellow, borne in prominent racemose spikes. H. coronarium, the French Honeysuckle, the species most usually cultivated, is a perennial herb, with spikes of deep red flowers. There is also a white-flowered variety. H. flexuosum, a closely allied species from southern Spain, has red flowers, tinged with blue. They are all of easy culture in open, sunny gardens, and are readily increased by seeds. Hedy'scepe Canterburyana. A name given to Kentia Canterburyana. Hee'ria rosea. A synonym of Heterocentron roseum. Hei'nsia. A genus of Rubiacem, including a few species of evergreen shrubs, natives of tropical Africa. H. jasminiflora, the only species yet introduced, is a beautiful, much branched, unarmed, glabrous shrub, with HEL pure white Jasmine-like flowers. Propa- gated by cuttings ; introduced in 1824. He'lcia. From helcium, a horse-collar; in reference to the curious formation of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Orchidacea. H. sanguinolenta, the only species, is a beautiful terrestrial Orchid from the Peruvian Andes. Its flowers are produced in great profusion on single stalks from the base of the bulbs ; the sepals and petals yellowish, beautifully marked with reddish brown ; lip large, white, marked with purplish crimson. It requires to be grown in a cold house, and is increased by division. Syn. Tricopilia. Hele'nium. Sneeze Weed. Named after the beautiful Helen, the cause of the Trojan war. Nat. Ord. Composite. A small genus of showy, hardy herbaceous plants, with a few hardy annuals. The flowers are mostly large and yellow, somewhat re- sembling those of Rudbeckia, which similarity prevents their introduction to the flower garden. H. autumnale, the only native species, popularly known as Sneeze Weed, is a showy plant, growing from two to three feet high. It is common southward. Helia'nthemum. Sun Bose. From helios, the sun, and anthemon, a flower. Nat. Old. Cistacece. Low shrubs, generally used for planting on rock-work, and strongly resembling theCistus or Bock Bose. As most of the species are rather tender, they require protection during winter. For this reason they are either grown in pots, which are placed on the rock-work among the stones, or taken up and repotted in winter, to be planted out again in spring. They are generally increased by seeds, which ripen in abundance. Helia'nthus. The Sun Flower. From helios, the sun, and antlws, a flower; in reference to the common but erroneous opinion, that the flowers always turn their faces toward the sun. Nat. Ord. Composites. An extensive genus of hardy annuals and herbaceous perennials. The annual of this name, H. annuus, though a native of Peru, is ' of the hardiest of its kind, as it only requires sowing in the open border. The flowers are immense in size, averaging a foot in diameter ; color yellow with a dark disk. It is not, however, suitable for any situation, unless there be abundance of room, on account of the large size of its stalks and leaves. It is, however, much grown in marshy dis- tricts, because of its supposed virtue of absorbing malaria. Of the many varieties of this species, perhaps the finest are H. globosus fistulosus, and H. Californicus, both of which have very large, extremely double, globular flowers when fully developed. H. tuberosum, the well-known Jerusalem Artichoke is some- times cultivated for its tubers, which are in considerable demand especially in Europe, for soups, etc. The name of Jerusalem Artichoke is considered to be a corruption of the Italian Girasole Articocca or Sun-flower Artichoke, under which name it is said to have been originally distributed from the Farnese garden at Borne soon after its intro- duction to Europe in 1617. The perennial kinds are quite hardy and many of them are very ornamental. H. orgyalis, a species from Texas, forms a bush from six to ten feet in AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 185 HEL height, with numerous narrow recurved leaves surmounted by large loose panicles of comparatively small bright yellow flower heads, forming when in bloom a veritable fountain of gold. It is one of the most striking and useful of autumnal flowering plants. H. multiflorus plenus, a variety of H. decapetalus, produces large, very double flowers, three to five inches in diameter, ex- ceedingly showy and desirable. H. rigidus and several other species are well worthy of a space in a collection of hardy herbaceous plants. Helichry'sum. Everlasting Flower. From helios, the sun, and chrysos, gold ; in allusion to the brilliant flowers. Nat. Ord. Compositce. Syn. Elichrysum. The genus consists of annuals, hardy herba- ceous perennials, and evergreen shrubs, the two latter rarely seen except in botanical collections. The common yellow Everlasting, H. bracteatum, is a hardy annual that only requires sowing in the open border. H. bicolor is a very slight variety of it, merely differing in having the outer petals tipped with copper color; but H. macranthum has white flowers tipped with pink, and is very handsome. This species is a native of the Swan River colony. It may either be sown in the open ground in April, to flower in autumn, or in a hot-bed in February to plant out in May. H. orientate, the Immortelle of commerce, a native of the . Island of Crete, although known in Europe since 1629, was not generally cultivated before 1815. At present it is chiefly grown in the south of France, where the land gradually slopes to the Mediterranean. It comes to the greatest perfection in positions well exposed to the sun, and surrounded by dry stone walls, where it commences to bloom in June. It is propagated by division of the larger tufts, and thrives best in a light, stony or porous soil. The flowering stems are gathered before the flowers are fully expanded, by women, who make them up into small bundles which are usually placed to dry on the stone walls of the enclosure in which they grow. When properly dried, they are taken away by young girls who are employed to remove the downy covering from the stems. A pound weight of the dried plants contains about two hundred stems, each bearing on an average twenty flowers. Each tuft of the growing plants produces from sixty to seventy stems. An acre of ground contains about 16,000 tufts, which will annually yield from two to three tons weight of dried Immortelles, and a well-established and well-managed plan- tation will continue productive from eight to ten years. The flowers are sold either by the bundle or weight, the bundles ranging from three to six cents each, according to size, while, if sold by weight, the price varies from three to five dollars a hundred weight, according to the state of the market. The natural color of the flowers is a deep yellow, but the manufacturers of garlands, bouquets, wreaths, etc., dye large quantities of them in other colors also chiefly black, green, and orange-red. This last named color, said to be obtained from a preparation of borax, is very handsome, and is the favorite tint of the people of the south of Europe. Large quantities are also bleached HEL white, with a preparation of chloride of lime, and with the natural yellow flowers and those that are dyed black are used to form the wreaths and other devices devoted to the dead. Those which are dyed of brighter colors are used, either alone, or mixed with natural flowers, for bouquets, or room decoration ; in these, how- ever, the Immortelle takes no prominent place among other flowers. Its great distinction from them seems to consist in its possession of those peculiarities of structure which have induced a nation of sentiment and refined taste to select it as the most fitting of all to fill the office and bear the title of ' ' The Flower of the Grave." The manufacture of Immortelle wreaths in Paris for funeral decorations engages upwards of 1,500 persons. The Immortelles are gathered in August on the arid hills of central and southern France. They are brought to the market in their natural condition, and the yellow blossoms are dyed or bleached white, green or red, in readiness for All-Saints and All-Souls days, November 1st and 2d, when all good Parisians visit their relatives' graves. On these fetes- des-morts, the gates of the cemeteries are beset with dealers in wreaths, crosses, and head- crowns. At Pere la Chaise alone it is esti- mated that more than 200,000 persons visit the cemeteries, and the sale of Immortelle wreaths reaches about 25,000. The silvery- white " Cape Flower " of the florists is Helichrysum vestitum (syn. Leucostemma) intro- duced to cultivation from South Africa in 1774. Large quantities are imported every year from the Cape of Good Hope, the lovely silvery sheen of the flowers superseding in a great measure the French or German white Immortelles. Helico'nia. From Helicon, a hill consecrated to the Muses ; from its affinity ' to the genus Musa. Nat. Ord. Scitaminece. A genus of interesting plants from the "West Indies and South America. Their fruit is eaten by the natives, though inferior to the Banana. It requires the same general treat- ment as the Maranta, but is too large for gen- eral green-house cultivation. Propagated by division of plant. Helio'phila. From helios, the sun, and phileo, to love ; referring to the sunny aspect where they delight to grow. Nat. Ord. Cruciferce. Beautiful little annual plants, natives of the Cape of Good Hope, generally with blue flowers, and very long, slender stems. The seeds should be sown on a hot-bed in Febru- ary, and the plants planted out in a warm, open situation in May. Helio'psis. Ox-eye. From helios, the sun, and opsis, like ; in allusion to the appearance of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Compositce. A genus comprising about six species of hardy perennials, with rather large, golden- yellow flowers. The native species, H. Icevis, is very showy and deserving of cultivation. Heliotrope. See Heliotropium. Heliotro'pium. Heliotrope. From helios, the sun, ana trope, twining ; in reference to the curled or twining flower branch. Nat. Ord. Boraginacece. This genus of interesting plants consists of hardy and tender annuals and green-house shrubs. Of the latter H. Peruvianum is the 186 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS HEL well-known Heliotrope, a general favorite from its delicious fragrance. It grows freely in the open border. After the first of Septem- ber, and until killed by frost, the plant is a complete mass of bloom. It and its many varieties are also largely grown in the green- house for cut flowers in winter, and is easily increased by cuttings or from seed. Intro- duced from Peru in 1757. Heli'pterum. From helios, the sun, and pteron, a wing. Nat. Ord. Composite. An extensive genus, separated from Helichry- sum, with which it was formerly classed. The species, commonly known as Everlasting Flowers, are tender annuals from South Africa, Australia, and Tasmania. The name "Ever- lasting Flower " is promiscuously applied to the plants of this genus and their allies. The arrangement of them in bouquets and floral designs is an extensive business in France and Germany. They grow freely from seed, and thrive best in a light, dry soil, made tolerably rich. Introduced from Swan River in 1863. Rhodanthe and Astelma are placed under this genus by some botanists. Hellebore. See Helleborus. White or Swamp. Veratrum nigrum. Helle'borus. Hellebore. From helein, to cause death, and bora, food ; in reference to its poisonous quality. Nat. Ord. Ranunculacece. This genus consists of hardy herbaceous perennials, growing best under the shade of trees. The "Christmas Rose," H. niger, is one of the most interesting plants belonging to this genus, on account of its flowering in winter or very early in spring, before almost every other flower. If grown in a frame, it will be true to its name, and flower freely during the Christmas holidays. It is increased by division of the roots; introduced from Austria in 1596. Helmet. The hooded upper part of some flow- ers, as in the Monkshood. Helmet Flower. A common name applied to Aconiturn, Coryanthes, and Scutellaria. He'lmia. In honor of Dr. C. Helm, a German ecclesiastic. Nat. Ord, Dioscoreacece. A genus of handsome climbers, allied to the Dioscorea or Yam, and requiring the same treatment. Helo'nias. From helos, a marsh ; habitat of the species. A genus of IAliacem, the only species, of which H. bullata is a pretty herbaceous perennial, flowering early in spring, found sparingly in boggy places from New Jersey to Virginia. Hemero'calli'deae. A sub-division of the nat- ural order IAliacem. Hemeroca'llis. Day Lily. From hemera, a day, and hallos, beauty ; alluding to the beauty and duration of the flowers. Nat. Ord. IAliacem. Strong perennial plants, with yellow or cop- per-colored flowers. They are perfectly hardy, and thrive best in a moist, shady situation. The more common sorts are unworthy of culti- vation. H. flava, found from the south of Europe to Siberia and Japan, has beautiful clear yellow, very fragrant flowers, borne in clusters on tall scapes. If in a shady border they remain some time in flower. Propagated by division of the root. HER Hemioni'tes. From hemionos, a mule ; supposed to be barren. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacem. A small genus of Ferns, with simple palmate fronds, natives of the tropics of both the New and Old Worlds. They are exceedingly inter- esting plants for the hot-house, where they must be grown. They are increased by divi- sion ; introduced in 1798. Hemite'lia. From hemi, half, and telia, a lid ; in reference to the shape of the indusium. A genus of about thirty species of tree ferns, belonging to the Nat. Ord. Polypodiaceai. Natives of South America, and the West Indies. They are all strong growers making beautiful specimens, but require a large green- house or conservatory to give room for their proper development. Hemlock. See Conium maculatum. Water. Cicuta virosa, and C. maculata. Spruce. See Tsuga Canadensis. Hemp. The common name of Cannabis sativa, also applied to various valuable fibres employed for manufacturing purposes. Bow-String of India. Sanseviera Zeylanica, and Calotropis gigantea. Canada or Indian. Apocynum cannabinum. East Indian. Cannabis sativa, and Hibiscus cannabinus. Manilla. The fibre of Musa textilis. Water. Eupatorium cannabinum, Acnida cannabina, and Bidens tripartita. Hemp Nettle. Galeopsis Tetrahit. Hemp Weed. Climbing. Mikania scandens. Hen and Chicken Daisy. See Bellis perennis. Hen and Chickens. A popular name for one of the Houseleeks, Sempervivum soboliferum. Henbane. See Hyoscyamus. Henna Plant. Lawsonia alba. Hep, or Hip. The fruit of the Dog Rose, Rosa canina, and other species of Rosa. Hepa'tica. From hepaticos, relating to the liver ; referring to the lobed leaves. Nat. Ord. RanunculaceoR. A small genus of hardy herbaceous peren- nials, one of our earliest " wild flowers," and very common in the woods throughout the Eastern and Northern States. It succeeds well in a shady border. Herac'leum. Cow Parsnip. From heracles, a plant consecrated to Hercules. Nat. Ord. UmbellifercB. A genus of large, coarse-growing, hardy perennials and biennials, bearing large umbels of white flowers. They are all too weedy in appearance for the flower garden, being suit- able only for large masses in rocky places difficult to cultivate. Herb. A plant that does not possess a woody stem. Herbaceous. Merely green, or thin green and cellular, as the tissue of membraneous leaves. Also producing an annual stem from a peren- nial root. Herbaceous Plants, Hardy. W. Robinson in " Hardy Flowers," London, 1888, says : " The culture of the finest hardy perennials need not interfere in the slightest degree with that of bedding plants, or anything else— indeed it would enhance the beauty of all, and in almost every garden there is, goodness knows, an abundance of room for improve- AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 187 HER ment of this kind. To discuss the subject from the basis of the " mixed border," is completely to beg the question, and in most cases when people discuss this question, the old mixed border seems to represent their ideal of the highest beauty to be attained by the use of the hardy herbaceous and alpine flora of our gardens. To me it has a very different and a very much wider and nobler aspect. I have been somewhat surprised that people have spoken so encouragingly of the matter, considering their point of view. During the past eight or nine years I have sought after hardy plants of all kinds unre- mittingly, and previous to that I had seen a few good old-fashioned mixed borders ; but at no time have I ever seen anything in this way that displayed a tithe of the beautiful plants which it might have had, or that was in any way worthy of a beautiful garden. Assuredly a well arranged mixed border would be one of the most interesting things ever seen in any garden. But it is not alone in that way that the plants under discussion may be made available. Many combinations of the utmost beauty and which have not yet been attempted in gardens, are quite possible with them, and very few have any idea of the many divers ways in which they may be cultivated, so as to attain the happiest results." A collection of hardy plants is most interesting, and should form a feature in every garden. Their treat- ment is of the easiest description, provided due preparation is made for their reception, and ordinary attention bestowed afterwards in keeping the borders cleaned, and the plants tied up to protect them from rough winds. Some sorts are well adapted for massing in large or small beds, the majority however, most suitable for cultivation in private gar- dens may be better arranged in mixed borders, reserving the dwarf and more deli- cate sorts for special culture in the rock- garden. A general display at any particular season is not usually the rule with a varied collection of herbaceous plants, yet their flowering period extends with one or another genus nearly throughout the year; spring and autumn being the seasons when most are represented, their requirements being more fully met by a cooler temperature and moister atmosphere than those experienced in summer. Mixed borders, groups and beds of the finer perennials may be much improved by being varied with tufts of the finer orna- mental grasses, which see. Various select perennials, grown in quantity, afford an in- valuable supply of cut flowers especially in early autumn ; a large number also of the bulbous section, flower very early in spring, and are additionally attractive and useful on that account. The .majority of hardy plants may be readily raised from seed, sown outside after the first of April, when germination is tolerably certain ; a large proportion however may be readily propagated by division on the commencement of the new growth in spring. The following selection embraces many of the most desirable species and varieties ; as a guide in planting we give the color and the average height in feet : Achillea Eupatorium, bright yellow, 4 ft. Millefolium roseum, rose, 2 ft. Ptarmica fl. pi., double white, 1 ft. tomentosa, bright yellow, 1 ft. HER Aconitum Californicum, blue, 2 to 3 ft. Japonicum, flesh color, 6 ft. Napellus, blue, 3 to 4 ft. variegatum, blue, 3 to 4 ft. Acorus Japonicus variegata, \% ft. Adonis vernalis, yellow, % to 1 ft. iEgopodium podograria variegata, white, 1 ft. JEthionema grandiflora, rose, 1% ft. Ajuga reptans, blue, % ft. reptans variegata, blue, % ft. Allium Moly, yellow, 1 ft. Alyssum saxatile, yellow, 1 ft. Amsonia salicifolia, blue, 2 ft. Anchusa Italica, bright blue, 3 ft. Anemone Japonica, rosy carmine, 2 ft. Japonica alba, white, 2 ft. Anthemis tinctoria, yellow, \% ft. Anthericum Liliastrum, white, \% ft. Aquilegia coerulea, blue and white, 1 ft. chrysantha, yellow, 2 ft. The various varieties of A. vulgaris, both double and single, height 2 to 3 ft. Arabis albida, white, % to % ft. albida variegata, white, % ft. Armeria vulgaris, or maritima, the variety called " Crimson Gem," bright rose, 1 ft. Asclepias tuberosa, orange, 2 ft. verticillata, white, 1% ft. Asperula odorata, white, 1 ft. Aster prenanthoides, light blue, 3 ft., and many others of our native species. Astilbe Japonica (SpiraBa), white, 1 ft. Aubretia, several species, light purple, very dwarf. Baptisia Australis, blue, 2 to 3 ft. Betonica grandiflora, purple, 2 ft. Bocconia cordata, buff-color, 5 to 6 ft. Boltonia latsesquama, light blue, 3 ft. Campanula. The species of this genus are all well worthy of cultivation. Centaurea montana, purple, 1 ft. Centranthus ruber, and its white variety, 2 ft. Cerastium tomentosum, white foliage and flow- ers, very dwarf. Chrysopsis Mariana, yellow, 1 ft. Clematis crispa, lilac, 4 to 6 ft. erecta, white, 3 ft. Colchicum autumnale, pink, 1 ft. Commelina ccelestis, blue, 1 ft. Convallaria majalis (Lily-of-the -Valley). Coreopsis auriculata, yellow, 2 to 3 ft. lanceolata, yellow, 2 ft. tenuifolia, yellow, 1% ft. Coronilla varia, rose and white, 2 to 3 ft. Corydalis nobilis, yellow, 1 ft. Cypripedium spectabile, and other species. Delphinium coelestinum, light blue, 4 ft. formosum, blue and white, 3 ft. nudicaule, scarlet, 2 ft. Wheelerii, blue and purple, 4 ft. Dianthus plumarius, light purple, 1 ft. Dicentra eximia, pink, \% ft. spectabilis (Dielytra), pink, 2 ft. Dictamnus Fraxinella, pink, 1% ft. Fraxinella alba, white, 1)^ ft. Dodecatheon Meadia, etc., pink and yellow, 1 ft. Doronicum Caucasicum and other sorts, yel- low, 2 ft. Dracocephalum, several species, blue, 1 to 2 ft. Echinacea purpurea, red, 3 to 4 ft. Echinops sphserocephalus, light blue, 3 ft. Eomecon chionantha, white, 1 ft. Epilobium augustifolium, crimson, 3 to 6 ft. Epimedium alpinum, red, 1 ft. violaceum, white and violet, 1 ft. 188 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS HER EranthiS hyemalis, yellow, }£ ft. Eryngium araethystinum, light blue, 3 ft. Euphorbia corollata, white, 1% ft. Funkia lanceolata, lilac, 1% ft. ovata marginata, blue, 1% ft. subcordata, white, 2 ft. Galium mollugo, white, 3 ft. Geranium pratense, light purple, 2 ft. Geum coccineum plenum, scarlet, 2 ft. Gillenia trifoliata, light red, 1 to 2 ft. Glaucium corniculatum, yellow, 2 ft. Gypsophila paniculata, white, 3 ft. Harpalium rigidum, yellow, 3 ft. Helianthus multiforus, yellow, 4 ft. orgyalis, yellow, 6 ft. Helleborus niger, white, J£ ft_ Hemerocallis flava, yellow, 2 ft. rutilans, orange-red, 2 ft. Kwanso fl. pi., orange-red, 2 ft. Hesperis matronalis, purple and white, \% ft. Hibiscus grandiflora, white and rose, 4 to 5 ft. Hyacinthus candicans, white, 4 ft. Iberis correefolia, white, 1 ft. Gibraltarica, rosy-white, 1 ft. sempervirens, white, % ft. Iris foetidissima variegata, bluish, 1)^ ft. Germanica, many sorts, \% ft. Kaempferii, many sorts, 2 ft. pumila, purple and white, % ft. Lamium maculatum, purple, % ft. Lathyrus platyphyllus (varieties), 6 ft. Liatris pycnostachys, purple, 3 ft. spicata, purple, 2 to 3 ft. Libertia ixioides, white, 1J£ ft. Lilium, many sorts, 1 to 5 ft. Lobelia cardinalis, scarlet, 2 ft. Lotus corniculatus, yellow, very dwarf. Lupinus polyphyllus, blue, 1 ft. Lychnis Chalcedonica fl. pi., scarlet. Chalcedonica alba, white, 3 ft. Lysimachia clethroides, white, 2 feet. nummularia, yellow, very dwarf. vulgaris, yellow, 2 ft. Lythrum salicaria, reddish-purple, 2 to 5 ft. Mertensia virginica, blue and red, 1*^ ft. Monarda didyma, scarlet, 2 ft. Bradburiana, purple, 2 ft. Myosotis palustris, light blue, % ft. Narcissus, many sorts, 1 ft. (Enothera Fraseri, yellow, 2 ft. riparia, yellow, 1 ft. Missouriensis, yellow, % ft. Omphalodes verna, blue, % ft. Papaver orientale, scarlet, 4 ft. Phlox subulata, purple ; reptans, reddish-pur- ple, and other dwarf sorts. Garden hybrids of P. decussata, etc. Platycodon grandiflorum, blue, \% ft. grandiflorum album, white, \% ft. Pceonia officinalis, many varieties and colors, 2 ft. tenuifolia fl. pi., crimson, 1 ft. Polemonium coeruleum and reptans, blue, 1 ft. Polygonum cuspidatum, syn. P. Sieboldii, white, 4 ft. Pyrethrum roseum and other species, 1% ft. Ramondia Pyrenaica, light purple, dwarf. Ranunculus aconitifolius fl. pi., white, 2 ft aeris fl. pi., yellow, 2 ft. Romneya Coulteri, white, 5 ft. Rudbeckia triloba, and other species, yellow, 2 to 3 ft. Salvia pratensis, blue, 1% ft. Sanguinaria Canadensis, white, % ft. Saponaria ocymoides, pink, dwarf. HER Saxifraga crassifolia, red, 1 ft. Sedum, many sorts, principally dwarf. Sempervivum, many sorts. Silene alpestris, rose, % ft. viscosa fl. pi., deep pink, 1ft. Spirasa Aruncus, white, 4 ft. Filipendula fl. pi., white, 1 ft. lobata, red, 2 ft. palmata, red, 2 ft. Ulmaria, white, 1 ft. variegata, white, 1 ft. Stachys lanata, purple, 1 ft. Symphytum asperrimum, bluish-purple, 2 ft. officinale variegata, white, 2 ft. Tradescantia Virginica, blue and white varie- ties, 2 ft. Tricyrtis grandiflora, white and purple, \% ft. Trifolium incarnatum, rose colored, 1 ft. rubens, purplish red, 1 ft. Trillium grandiflorum, white, % ft. Tunica saxifraga, red, dwarf. Valeriana officinalis, white, 3 ft. Veronica spicata, blue and other sorts. Vinca minor, white and blue varieties, dwarf. Viola, many sorts and colors, ^ ft. Yucca filamentosa, white, 5 ft. Herbarium. The Herbarium or Hortus Siccus, is a collection of dried specimens of plants, named and systematically arranged. It is in- dispensable to the student, as well as to the working botanist.- Beginners in the study should possess, or have access to an her- barium, which should contain specimens rep- resenting all the natural orders, and as many of the genera and species of the plants of his immediate vicinity or district as possible. An herbarium, however, may be restricted to a particular family of plants, made the object of special study. There has been considerable difference of opinion as to the proper size of the sheets for the Herbarium. The principal British her- baria adopt the size of 16% x 10*^ inches, which is thought rather narrow, rarely per- mitting two specimens of the same species to be placed side by side. In the United States 16)^ x 11% has been adopted, and which is, perhaps, the best to follow, though we think a size of 20 x 16 inches is not too large to handle for the genus covers, the species paper being one-quarter of an inch narrower. Specimens intended to be dried should be gathered on a fine day ; if wet with rain they are liable to lose their color, the great enemy to the preservation of which is damp. In readiness there should be six or eight pieces of stout book or millboard, say twenty inches long by fifteen broad, a good supply of old newspapers folded to about the same average dimensions ; also a few quires of blotting paper, a few pieces of tissue paper cut to the size of one's hand, and half a dozen squares of cotton wadding cut to the same size as the boards. Using a board as a foundation, place upon it a couple of the folded newspapers, and then dispose the plant in the middle, let- ting it fall naturally, but keeping the leaves and other parts as little crumpled as possible; cover in turn with blotting paper, then news- papers, and so on till all are safely deposited. The extra boards are to interfere, if needful, the tissue paper is to lay, when necessary, over flowers of particular delicacy ; the cot- ton -wadding is to employ when the stem of HELIANTHUS MTTLTIFLORUS HELLEBORUS NIGER (CHRISTMAS ROSE). HIBISCUS SINENSIS. HIBISCUS SYRIACUS. HESPKRIS (SWEET ROCKET). HELIPTERUM. HEMEROCALUS FLAVA. HIBISCUS CALIFORNICUS. HEPATICA TRILOBA. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 189 HER the specimen is inordinately thick, so that a vacuum would be caused if the wadding were not there. A stout board at the top completes the preparations. A weight of several pounds more or less, according to the height of the pile, should be placed on top for twenty-four hours, when on examination the specimens will be found to be quite flat but limp and full of moisture. Now shift them into blotting paper, with tissue paper where very tender, and newspapers between each as before. In a day or two the specimens should have a second shift, all the papers used being perfectly dry and warm. A third and fourth shift into dry and warm papers, will ordinarily suffice to dry the specimens thoroughly, and fix the colors. It is no advantage to use warm papers for the commencing process, which is merely one of compression. Drying rarely commences for at least two days, and the more rapidly this is accomplished the better the success in retaining the colors. When perfectly dry, the specimens should be laid out upon half sheets of tolerably stiff paper, and the half sheets be placed within a whole sheet. If the specimens are likely to be often handled and examined, it is desirable they should be mounted. This is best accom- plished by glueing bodily on the sheet with white glue, or by transverse strips of gummed paper. Sometimes it is preferable to keep the specimens loose. Inferior ones can then be superseded by better; the venation of the leaves can be scrutinized when there is need, and a vast amount of labor saved. When mounted, the name, date, and locality where gathered, should be written on the contain- ing paper ; if kept loose, the same particulars should be stated on a ticket and the ticket attached to the specimen. As soon as a num- ber are got together, they should be sorted, according to their natural orders, a sheet being devoted to every order, with its name in bold writing on the outside. When the orders themselves become well illustrated, the genera should be isolated in a similar manner, and when a genus becomes well illus- trated the particular species should have sep- arate sheets. By this means continual ex- pansion is provided for. "There is a place for everything, and everything in its place." The nomenclature and arrangement should be according to some published catalogue, the newer the better. Finally the sheets of spec- imens should be deposited in a suitable cabi- net, or they may be wrapped in brown paper, marked outside as to the contents. This pre- serves them from dust, which is often a sad blemish to an Herbarium, where cleanliness ranks next to order and accuracy. Everything that is interesting in economic botany, useful in medicine, employed in art or science, curious in structure, or in any way identified with floriculture, is worthy of preservation. The object of the Herbarium is to illustrate the plant in the most perfect manner possible. Such plants accordingly as grasses and ferns, should be procured at dif- ferent stages. Cotyledons, root leaves, sprays showing plumules, others showing stipules; autumnal foliage, leaves bearing parasitic fungi, should all be treated as though they were flowers. Seed-pods likewise should be introduced and packets of ripe seed should be kept in envelopes. Tendril-bearing plants, HER such as the Vetch, and twiners like the Hop, should be got while clinging to their prop, and the two be dried together. Thus we see the mode of life as well as the organs. Pro- ducts also should be introduced, such as lace bark, and the bark of the paper Birch, rice paper, Brousonettia cloth, or anything that lies flat, and helps to interpret the plants. Never be content, except where unavoidable, with a fragment. Every specimen should be large and handsome, coextensive with the room given by the paper. Fragments, of course, are better than nothing, but they should be regarded as only specimens pro tern. An Herbarium, therefore, is a life-long ex- ercise in everything implied, in order and neatness, accuracy of scientific observation and discrimination, and in exact and logical mental work. It is an unfailing amusement ; it is profoundly educational alike to one's self, and to others ; it is a commentary on one's tastes, and a history of experience. Herbe'rtia. Named after Dr. Herbert, Dean of Manchester, a distinguished investigator of bulbous plants. Nat. Ord. Iridaceaz. Very pretty species from South America, nearly hardy, requiring only the protection of the frame. It does well grown in pots. The flowers resemble the Iris, and are of various colors, blue and white predominating. Prop- agated by offsets. Introduced in 1830. Herb Christopher. Actceaspicata, and Osmunda regalis. Herb of Grace, or Herb of Repentance. Ruta graveolens. Herb Robert. Geranium Robertianum. Herbs. In every garden a piece of ground should be specially devoted to Herbs, more especially to those of which only a few plants need be kept. Part of the space should also be devoted to the annual sorts in preference to growing them in various parts of the gar- den. It is also just the place for the orderly and systematic culture of all small salading, such as Mustard and Cress, a constant success- ion of young Onions, a row of Chives, and the cultivation of Radishes, etc., throughout the season. Parsley requires special attention, as it is always of great importance for garnishing. The following are among the most useful Herbs in cultivation for flavoring purposes : Angelica, Sweet Basil, Borage, Burnet, Car- away, Anise, Chervil, Chives, Coriander, Dill, Fennel, Horehound, Lavender, Rosemary, Sweet Marjoram, Mint, Parsley, Pennyroyal, Rue, Sage, Summer and Winter Savory, Tar- ragon, Thyme, and Wormwood. Hercules Club. Aralia spinosa, and Xantho- xylum Clava-Hercules. Herd's Grass. The New England name of Phleum pratense. In Pennsylvania Agrostis vulgaris is com- monly called Herd's Grass. Herma'nnia. Named for Paul Hermann, at one time Professor of Botany at Leyden. An extensive genus of Sterculiaceaz, including about eighty species ol twiggy undershrubs, having the stems and leaves more or less clothed with starry hairs. The pretty nodding, sometimes sweet scented, flowers, are pale yellow, orange, or reddish-colored, disposed in dense clusters, or loose racemes or panicles at the ends of the twigs. Three of the species 190 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS HER are natives of Mexico and Texas, the rest are all African. Propagated by cuttings. Hermaphrodite. Having both stamens and pistils in one bloom, as in most common plants. Heron's Bill. See Erodium. Herpe'stis. From herpestes, a creeping thing; in reference to the creeping stems. Nat. Ord. Scrophulariacem. An extensive genus of herbaceous peren- nials, chiefly aquatics, common throughout all tropical countries. There are also several species found in marshy places in the South- ern and Western States. The species are mostly uninteresting. H. reflexa, a species of recent introduction, is a valuable plant for the aquarium. Herra'nia. Named after Gen. Herran, a Presi- dent of the Republic of New Grenada. Nat. Ord. Sterculiaceoe. This genus consist of three or four species of evergreen trees, natives of South America, and one from Australia. They have palm- like heads, composed of large digitate leaves. They are very showy, but too large for general green-house cultivation. Hesperalo'e. From hesperos, western, and Aloe, alluding to the aspect of the plant, and its native habitat. Nat. Ord. Liliacem. H. Zuccifolia is a very striking and interest- ing green-house plant, having a leafy stem, on a very short caudex. The pale rose-colored flowers are borne in loose racemes on a leafless scape, three to four feet high. It was intro- duced to cultivation from Texas in 1882. Syn. H. Engelmanni. Hespera'ntha. Evening Flower. From hesperos, the evening, and anthos, a flower. Nat. Ord. Iridacece. A genus of Cape bulbs closely allied to the Ixia. The species are remarkable for expand- ing their sweet-scented flowers in the even- ing; hence their name. The flowers are mostly white, sometimes stained on the out- side with purple or brown. Culture same as Ixia; introduced in 1825. He'speris. Rocket. From hesperos, the evening; the Rockets being sweeter toward evening. Nat. Ord. Cruciferm. These flowers, though very common, are rarely well grown, as they require a great deal of care to bring them to perfection. They are all perennials ; and as soon as they have done flowering they should be taken up and trans- planted into fresh and very rich soil, which must be of a light and friable nature. Thus treated, the double white and double purple varieties of Hesperis matronalis will attain extraordinary size, and will flower splendidly ; they are propagated by seeds or division of roots. Hesperosco'rdum. Literally, the Onion of the West; from hesperos, the west, and skordon, garlic. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. A small genus of California bulbs, allied to the Allium, with large and showy flowers, blue and white. They have a strong smell of gar- lic, which is a barrier to their introduction to the flower garden. Syn. Brodicea. Hetera'nthera. From heteros, variable, and anther; the Anthers are variable. Nat. Ord. Iridacece. HIB A genus containing about eight species of ornamental aquatic perennial herbs, of which one is African and all the rest American. Flowers blue or white, produced from a spathe in the axil of a sheathing leaf stalk. H. reni- formis, the Mud Plantain, with roundish kid- ney-shaped leaves and white flowers, is not unfrequent by the muddy banks of streams in the Southern States. H. limosum, with blue flowers, is found from western Virginia to Illinois and southward. Heteroce'ntron. From heteros, variable, and kentron, a sharp point. Nat. Ord. Melastomacece. A genus of free-flowering under-shrubs from Mexico. There are but two species, one H. album, with white, the other, H. roseum, with crimson-purple flowers, produced in axillary or terminal clusters. They make very desir- able plants for winter blooming, and are pro- pagated by cuttings. Syn. Heeria. Heuche'ra. Alum root. Named after Professor Heucher, a German botanist. Nat. Ord. SaxU fragacece. A genus of very handsome herbaceous peren- nials, natives of this country and Siberia. The leaves are entire, from the center of which the flower scape arises from one to three feet high, with terminal panicles of greenish or purplish flowers. The root of H. Americana is so astringent that it is called Alum-root ; propagated by division of the roots in spring. Hexace'ntris. From hex, six, and centron, a spur ; alluding to two of its stamens having one spur each, and two of them two spurs each. Nat. Ord. Acanthacece. A small genus of green-house evergreen shrubs, of climbing habit, with dentate leaves. The flowers are purple or yellow, produced in many flowered terminal or axillary racemes in June. They are natives of India, and are pro- pagated by cuttings. This genus is now in- cluded by Bentham and Hooker under Thun- bergia. Hibbe'rtia. In honor of George Hibbert, a dis- tinguished promoter of botany. Nat. Ord. DiUeniacece. Green-house evergreen shrubs, from New Holland and the Cape of Good Hope. There are more than fifty species included in this genus. Most of them are small, heath-like, tufted shrubs, or of a slender trailing habit ; a few are climbing shrubs. Their flowers are yellow, borne at the ends of the branches, and generally give out a very unpleasant odor. H. dentata, a climbing species, is one of the most showy, and grows six or eight feet high. H. volubilis, the largest species of the genus, has a stiff climbing stem and pale yellow flowers two inches across, but most disagree- ably scented. Propagated from cuttings of half-ripened shoots in spring ; introduced in 1823. Hibi'scus. Virgil's name for the Marsh-mallow. Nat. Ord. Malvaceae. An extensive genus, consisting of annuals, perennials, and hardy and green-house shrubs. All the kinds bear very showy flowers, and deserve to be extensively cultivated. H. rosa- sinensis pleno produces large double flowers, scarlet, and yellow, or buff, requiring simple green-house treatment. A singular freak of this species is, that orange and crimson flow- ers are occasionally seen on the same plant. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 191 HIC Quite a number of varieties of H. rosa-sinensis have been introduced of late years that are much superior to the typical species. H. Syriacus (Althaea), one of our most beautiful hardy shrubs, the more valuable as it is a free flowerer, will grow almost anywhere, and propagates freely by seeds, layers and cut- tings. There is a pretty variegated-leaved variety of H. Syriacus, quite hardy, introduced by the late Robert Buist, of Philadelphia, Penn. The varieties of this species are used for hedges in many places along our coast, where the soil is too poor for any other shrub to thrive. H. Moscheutos is abundant in marshy places along our coasts. The flowers are a light rosy-pink color, sometimes nearly white, five to six inches in diameter, borne in great numbers on a scape three to four feet high. This species improves in size of plant and color of flower by removing it from its habitat to a dry situation in the border. H. Californica is a strong-growing species, bear- ing immense pure white flowers, and is one of the most va'uable plants of recent introduc- tion. The perennials are propagated by seeds or division of roots. The annuals are showy and grow readily from seed. H. esculentus, or Abelmoschus esculentus of modern botanists, is the Okra of the gardens, a tender annual from Central America and the West Indies. In the latter it is known as Gombo, and is exten- sively grown for the seed pods, which are used as a vegetable. The unripe pods are added to soups to render them more mucilaginous. They are also pickled like capers, and make an excellent salad. Okra may be raised by sowing the seed in spring as soon as the ground is warm. The dwarf varieties are preferable, being more productive, and requir- ing less space for their development. The soil should be rich to make tender pods. Hickory. See Carya. Hiera'cium. Hawkweed. From hierax, a hawk; being supposed to sharpen the sight of birds of prey. Nat. Ord. Composites. A large genus of free-flowering, handsome herbaceous perennials, quite hardy and well adapted for planting among rock-work, or near the front of large groups of mixed plants ; the genus also contains a very beautiful an- nual suited for growing in masses ; this is perhaps better known by the English name of the genus, Hawkweed. The flowers of nearly all the species are yellow, several of them are indigenous and common, but not- withstanding are well deserving the little at- tention necessary to keep them in the neat order requisite in the flower garden. Most species are from Central Europe, and have long Deen cultivated as garden flowers. Hiero'chloa. Holy Grass, Vanilla Grass, Seneca Grass. From hieros, holy, and chloa, grass. Nat. Ord. Graminacem. A small genus of grasses inhabiting high altitudes, both in this country and in Europe. The species have no agricultural value, as they produce but little herbage, and have very pow- erful creeping roots, which are very difficult to extirpate, making it troublesome in cul- tivated fields. H. borealis, having been dedi- cated to the Virgin Mary, is much used in Catholic countries for strewing before their churches. In Sweden it is hung over beds in the belief that it induces sleep, because of its HIP sacred influence. In Iceland it is used to scent the clothes and apartments of the in- habitants. The scent emitted is very similar to that of the Sweet-scented Vernal Grass. Hill. This is a term used to designate the place where Tomatoes, Corn, Potatoes, Mel- ons, etc., are planted; and the use of the term often leads the novice to serious errors in planting, as it gives the impression that a hill or mound must be made to sow and plant on, and which is often done to the detri- ment of the crop, as in our hot and dry cli- mate, if a mound of four or five inches is raised above the general level, the plants suf- fer often severely in dry weather. If a " hill " is formed at all, it should only be by drawing the soil up to the plant to support it after it has well started to grow ; such a mound will then do less harm, as the foliage shades the ground. In planting then, particularly on light, dry soils, the "hills" for sowing or planting should be made nearly on the level surface. Hilum. The scar produced by the separation of a seed from its placenta. Hi'ndsia. Named after R. B. Hinds, a zealous botanist. Nat. Ord. Rubiacece. Green-house evergreen shrubs from Brazil. Some of the species are plants of great beauty. H. violacea bears clusters of ultra-marine flowers two inches long, very showy. They are propagated by cuttings; introduced in 1844. Hippea'strum Knight's Star Lily. From hippeus, a knight, and astron, a star ; referring to one of the species. Nat. Ord. Amarylli- dacem. This may, with justice, be termed the most noble and showy section of the family to which it belongs. The flowers are variously colored ; some species have them entirely crimson, while others are white, abundantly streaked with red or crimson. The plants require the same treatment as Amaryllis. This genus was formerly classed with the Amaryllis, but was separated from it some years ago by the Rev. W. Herbert, who, in fact, reconstructed the whole family. They are, however, still classed by many under Amaryllis (which see), and are remarkable for the number of gorgeous and attractive hy- brids and crosses that have been obtained by the skill and perseverance of the hybridist. Propagated by offsets. First introduced from Lima in 1836. Hippo'mane. Manchineel or Manzanillo tree. From hippos, a horse, and mane, madness ; alluding to the effects of the original plant. Nat. Ord. Euphorbiacem. H. Mancinella, the only species is an ever- green one that grows to an immense size, and is very common in many of the West Indian Islands and in Venezuela and Panama, usually growing on sandy sea shores. The violent nature of the juice of the Man- chineel tree has given rise, in the western hemisphere, to nearly as wonderful stories as those associated with the Upas tree in the eastern. The fruit is beautiful, resembling an apple, but is a virulent poison. The whole tree abounds with a white milky juice, which is also of an acrid noxious quality. If a single drop of this juice drops on the skin, it causes 192 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS HIP a sensation like the touch of a hot iron, and raises a blister on the part. The wood is beautifully variegated with brown and white, and is highly prized for furniture and orna- ments. The workmen who fell the trees first kindle a fire around the stem, by which means the juice becomes so much thickened, as not to flow out when wounds are made with their axes. Whole woods on the sea coast of Martinique have been burnt in order to clear the country of such a dangerous plant. One of the most dangerous properties of this tree, is that of causing blindness, if by chance the least drop of the milk, or the smoke of the burning wood, comes in contact with the eyes. Dr. Seaman states that at Veraquas some of the ship's carpenters were blinded for several days from the juice getting into their eyes whilst cutting down the Man- chineel trees, while he himself suffered tem- porary loss of sight from merely gathering specimens. Hippo'phae. Sea Buckthorn. From hippos, a liorse, and pho, to kill ; in reference to the supposed poisonous qualities of the seeds. Nat. Ord. Elceagnacew. H. rhamnoides, is a strong-growing decidu- ous shrub or low-growing tree, with small foliage of a curious grey-green color, and yellow, minute flowers, succeeded by bright orange-colored berries. It is a native of the east coast of Great Britain, and very suitable for planting near the sea as a shelter. It grows satisfactorily even in positions that are occasionally drenched by the sea-spray. When in fruit, it is a very ornamental shrub. Hippu'rus. Mare's Tail. From hippus, a mare, and our a, a tail ; the stem resembles a mare's tail, from the crowded whorls of very narrow, hair-like leaves. Nat. Ord. Haloragacea. A very curious aquatic plant, found sparingly in ponds and springs from New York to Ken- tucky and northward. Scientists say the plant absorbs a large quantity of inflammable air, which assists in purifying the putrid air of marshes. It is a favorite food of wild ducks. Hirsute. Hairy; covered with somewhat soft hairs. Hispid. Covered with long, stiff hairs. Hoary. Covered with white down. Hoary Pea. See Tephrosia. Hobble-bush. A common name for Viburnum latanoides. Hoe. This consists of the "draw" and the " push" or "scuffle " hoe. There are a great many modifications of these. For deep hoe- ing the steel-pronged draw hoe is the best implement, being much preferable to the blade draw hoe, as it not only pulverizes the soil better, but its points penetrate the soil easier, and the work is thus made much lighter for the operator. The blade draw hoe should never be used, except when the ground is overgreen with weeds (a condition of things which, if possible, should never be allowed), or to draw earth up to plants, such as Celery or Cabbages. After the ground is new planted, before it is allowed to get hard, the 'scuffle" or "push hoe" is far more effective than the draw hoe, particularly be- tween rows ; nearly twice the amount of work can be done than with the draw hoe, but of HOP course that is simply stirring the surface ; for deep cultivation, the steel-pronged hoe is the best implement. Hoffma'nnia. A synonym of Campylobotrys, which see. Hog Plum. See Spondias. Hog-weed. A common name for Ambrosia artemisafolia. Hoi'tzia. A synonym of Laeselia, which see. Ho'lcus. From helko, to extract ; the original plant was supposed to possess the power of extracting thorns. Nat. Ord. Graminaceai. A genus of grasses that have soft woolly herbage, mostly natives of Great Britain, and of but little value. H. lanatus is common in our moist meadows, having become natural- ized from Europe ; it is popularly known as Velvet Grass. Holly. See Rex. Hollyhock. See Althaea rosea. Holly, Sea. See Erygnium. Holy Ghost Plant. See Peristeria elata. Holy Grass. A name applied to Hierodoa, a genus of sweet-scented grasses.thatare strewn before the church doors on saints' days, in the north of Europe. See Hierocloa. Holy Rose. A name given to the Rose of Jericho, Anastatica. Holy Thistle. See Carduus. Holy Tree. A popular name for Melia Aze- darach. Homalome'na. From homalos, flat, and mem, moon ; a translation of the native name of some of the species. Nat. Ord. Aroidem. A small genus of herbaceous plants, with heart or arrow-shaped leaves, and flowers resembling the Richardia. They are natives of China. H. cordata is occasionally grown in green-houses, and requires the same treat- ment as the Richardia. H. aromatica has an agreeable aromatic odor, and its root is sup- posed by the natives to possess medicinal properties. Home'ria. From homerio, to meet; the fila- ments are connected in a tube around the style. Nat. Ord. Iridacem. A small genus of pretty flowering bulbs from the Cape of Good Hope, and formerly included in the genus Morea. They succeed •well in the open border, but require the pro- tection of a frame during winter. Propagated by offsets, that should be taken off in Septem- ber. Honesty. See Lunaria. Honey Bean. See Robinia. Honey Flower. See Melianthus. Honey Garlic. See Nectaroscordum. Honey Locust. See Gleditschia. Honey Plant. The genus Hoya. Honeysuckle. The common name for the genus Lonicera. Honey- wort. See Cerinlhe. Hoop Petticoat. A common name given to the genus Corbularia; also to Narcissus bulboco- dium. Hop. See Humulus Lupulus. Japan. A popular name for Humulus Japoni- cus. J AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 193 HOP Hop Hornbeam. See Ostrya. Hop Tree. The popular name of Ptelia trifo- liata. Ho'rdeum. Barley. According to Bodaeus, the name is derived from hordus, heavy ; because the bread made from Barley is very heavy. Nat. Ord. Graminacece. A genus of valuable, erect annual, rarely perennial grasses, natives of Europe, temper- ate Asia, northern Africa, and extra-tropical America. The most useful of the species is the common Barley, H. vulgare, a grain which has been the longest in cultivation, and is more generally used than any other. The Egyptians have a tradition that Barley was the first grain made use of by man, and trace its introduction to their goddess Isis. Pliny, in his Natural History, speaks of its great antiquity, but gives no account of its origin, which is as little known as that of Wheat. Of the kinds under cultivation, H. vulgare is the common four-rowed, H. distichon, the two- rowed, and H. hexastichon the Winter Barley, which has six rows of grain, each row termi- nating in a long beard. This is the species most generally cultivated in this country. H. jubatum, Squirrel-tail Grass, is a native species, and is common on the shores of the great lakes. It is often cultivated in collections of ornamental grasses. Horehound. See Marrubium vulgare. Horke'lia. Named after J. Horkel, a German botanist. Nat. Ord. Rosacece. Hardy herbaceous perennials, found in Cali- fornia in 1826. They are desirable plants for the garden, bearing white flowers, and having finely cut foliage, like the Potentilla, to which it is allied. Propagated by seeds or division. Hormi'num, From horminon, the Greek name. Nat. Ord. Labiatae. H. pyrenaicum, the only species is an ele- gant hardy, herbaceous perennial, with bluish-purple flowers. It is of easy culture, and is increased by seeds or divisions. Horn. Any appendage which is shaped some- what like the horn of an animal, as the spur of the petals in Linaria. Horn-beam. See Carpinus. Horned Poppy. See Glaucium. Horn of Plenty. The common name of Fedia Cornucopia. Horse Balm. See Collinsonia. Horse Chestnut. See jiEsculus. Horse Mint. A common name for Monarda punctata. Horse Nettle. A local name of Solanum Caro- linense. Horseradish. Cochlearia armoracea. This plant is a native of the marshy districts of Great Britain, whence it was introduced into our gardens at an early day, and from the gardens it has escaped into moist, waste places, in various parts of the country. The generic name is derived from cochlear, a spoon ; from the spoon-like, or concave leaves of some of the species. As a condiment, the Horseradish is in general use, and is con- sidered stimulating to the digestive organs. This root is an important crop, upwards of five hundred acres of it being grown in the vicinity of New York alone, and for the last HOR twenty years there has been nothing grown from which more profit as a second crop has been realized. It is always grown as a second crop in the following manner : In preparing the roots for market during winter, all the small rootlets are broken off and reserved for planting, leaving nothing but the main root, which is usually from twelve to fifteen inches long, and weighing about three-quarters of a pound. The root- lets, or sets, are cut into pieces of from four to six inches in length, and from one-quarter to one-half an inch in diameter ; these are tied in bundles of from fifty to sixty, the top end being cut square and the bottom end slant- ing, so that in planting there will be no danger of setting the root upside down ; for, although it would grow if planted thus, it would not make a handsome root. The sets, when prepared, are stowed away in boxes of sand, care being taken that a sufficiency of sand is put between each layer of bundles to prevent their heating. They may either be kept in the boxes in a cool cellar, or pitted in the open ground, as may be most convenient. Horseradish is always cultivated as a second crop, and usually succeeds Early Cabbage, Cauliflower or Beets. Thus we plant Early Cabbage, lining out the ground with the one- foot marker ; on every alternate line are first planted the Cabbages, which stand, when planted, at two feet between the rows, and sixteen or eighteen inches between the plants. We always finish our entire planting before we put in the Horseradish, which delays it generally to about 1st of May. It is then planted between the rows of Cabbage, and at about the same distance as the Cabbage is in the rows, giving about 12,000 or 13,000 plants per acre. The planting is performed by making a hole about eight or ten inches deep with a long planting stick or light crowbar, into which is dropped the Horseradish set, so that its top will be two or three inches under the surface ; if the sets should be longer the hole should be made proportionally deep, so that the top of the set is not nearer the surface than two or three inches ; the earth is pressed in alongside the set, so as to fill up the hole, as in ordinary planting. The main reason for planting the set so far under the surface is to delay its coming up until the crop of cabbage be cleared off. The Horseradish makes its main growth in the fall, so that it is no injury to it to keep it from growing until July; in fact, it often happens that by being planted too near the surface, or too early, it starts to grow so as to interfere with the Cabbage crop ; in such cases, we have often to cut the tops off twice with the hoe before the cabbage is ready, but this does not injure it in the least. It is a crop with which there is very little labor during summer ; after the Cabbage has been cut off, the Horseradish is allowed to grow at will, and as it quickly covers the ground, one good deep stirring by hoe or culti- vator is all that is required after digging out the Cabbage stumps. When grown between Early Beets the cul- ture is, in all respects, the same, only it is more profitable to have the rows of Beets only eighteen inches apart ; this, of course, throws 194 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS HOR the Horseradish nearer, so that when grown between Beets it should be planted at the dis- tance of two feet between the plants in the rows, making about the same number of plants per acre as when planted between Early Cabbages. This manner of growing Horseradish we claim to be a great advance on the methods generally practised. All American writers on the subject, that we have seen, follow in the same track, and recommend planting the crowns. This not only destroys the most sale- able part of the root, but when planted thus, the crowns produce only a sprawling lot of rootlets which are utterly unsaleable in the market. Horseradish Tree. See Moringa. Horse-tail. The genus Equisetum. Hortensis. Of or belonging to a garden ; the word is often contracted thus : hort. Hotei'a Japonica. A synonym of Spiraea or Astilbe Japonica. Hottentot Bread. A South African name for Testudinaria Elephantipes. Hottentot Fig. Mesembryanthemum edule. Hotto'nia. Water Violet. Named after P. Hotton, a Dutch botanist. Nat. Ord. Primu- lacece. Hardy aquatic or marsh plants. H. inflata is common in pools and ditches from New England southward. H. palustris, the Water Violet, is a singular and beautiful plant, com- mon in pools in many parts of England. The leaves grow wholly under water ; from them there arises a long flower stalk bearing a pyramid of blue or white flowers, which are disposed in whorls. It is a very interesting plant for the aquarium. Houlle'tia. Named after M. Houllet, a French gardener. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A small genus of very handsome epiphytal Orchids, natives of Brazil. The genus is re- lated to Stanhopea, and requires the same treatment. Hound's Tongue. See Cynoglossum. Houseleek. See Sempervivum. Housto'nia. Named in honor of Dr. W. Houston, an English botanist. Nat. Ord. RubiacecB. This elegant genus of small flowering plants is found throughout the Northern and Western States. They are well adapted for flower borders, rock-work, or shaded beds, and thrive best in a moist situation. The colors of the flowers are white, blue and pur- ple. Herbaceous perennials, popularly known as Bluets, and propagated by division of the roots. Ho'vea. Named after A. P. Hove, a Polish botanist. Nat. Ord. Leguminosaz. A genus of handsome, blue-flowered ever- green shrubs from New Holland. " H. Celsii (Syn. H elliptica), one of the best known, is a beautiful green-house plant, flowering like most of the species, in the spring. This plant exhibits the peculiarity of the flower buds of the preceding year appearing at the base of those expanded during the present ; a common condition of leaf buds, which are always visi- ble the season preceding their expansion, but not frequently so with flower buds, which, though they may be formed several years HUG before their development externally, gener- ally remain concealed till the period of their unfolding." The flowers are pea-shaped, ax- illary, on short peduncles. Propagated by seeds ; introduced in 1818. Hove'nia. In honor of David Hoven, a Senator of Amsterdam, who contributed to the success of the travels of Thunberg. Nat. Ord. Rhamnaceae. These are small fruit-bearing trees, growing to the height of eight or ten feet, and pro- ducing a fruit which is said to taste like the Bergamot pear. H. dulcis, a native of Japan, has been introduced into this country, and grown as an ornamental fruit-bearing tree. None of the other species are hardy. Ho'wea. From Lord Howe's Island where only the genus is found. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. This name is now generally adopted for the two palms introduced and cultivated under the names of Kentia Belmoreana, and K. Fosteriana. Ho'ya. Wax Flower. In honor of Thomas Hoy, F. L. S., gardener to the Duke of Northumber- land at Sion House, England. Nat. Ord. Asclepiadaceat. The most common species, H. Carnosa, ha3 curious, wax-like flowers, from which drops a sweet, honey-like juice. It is a hot-house climber, which requires a light rich soil, and is propagated by cuttings, which require an average . temperature of not less than 75° to root freely. It is sometimes grown in green- houses, in a warm situation, exposed to the sun. It makes an excellent plant for a warm sitting-room, as it grows freely without direct light. Introduced from Asia in 1802. The variegated-leaved variety is a very orna- mental plant; H. bella, with beautiful waxy white flowers and dwarf shrubby slender habit, forms an excellent subject for a hang- ing basket in a warm green-house. There are many other species of much beauty, all requir- ing a warm plant-stove to bring them to per- fection. Huckleberry. "Whortleberry. The popular names of the genus Gaylussacia, of which there are several species. G. dumosa, the Dwarf Huckleberry, G. frondosa, the Blue Huckleberry, and 6. resinosa, the Black Huckleberry, are common throughout the United States, the latter being the Huckle- berry of the Northern States. Hudso'nia. False Heath. Named after William Hudson, author of "Flora Anglica." Nat. Ord. Cistacea. A genus of bushy little heath-like shrubs, seldom a foot high, covered all over with small awl-shaped or scale-like persistent downy leaves, and bearing numerous small, but showy yellow flowers in May, crowded along the upper part of the branches. Found in dry sandy soil near the coast, from Maina to V irginia. From its resemblance when not in bloom to Heather (Calluna vulgaris), it is often taken for that plant. Huge'lia. Named after Baron Hugel, of Vienna, Nat. Ord. Polemoniacew. A small genus of hardy annuals from Cali- fornia with blue and yellow flowers, propagated by seeds. First discovered in 1833. This genus is now included under Gilia. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 195 HUM Huma'ta. Meaning unknown. Nat. Ord. Poly- podiacea. A small genus of dwarf evergreen ferns, allied to Davallia.nnder which genus they are now included by some authors. Humble Plant. A name given to Mimosa pu- dica. Hu'mea. Named after Lady Hume. Nat. Ord. Composite. H. elegans, the only species, is an elegant biennial plant, which should be sown on a slight hot -bed in spring, then potted off and kept in the open air during summer, and in the green-house during winter, to be finally planted in the open border in May the second year. If the plants are repotted once or twice during the course of the first summer, always into only a little larger pots, they will become so much stronger before they are finally planted out as amply to repay the ad- ditional trouble. It is a very ornamental plant lor the lawn or sub-tropical garden. It grows from four to six feet high, its brownish-red, pink, or crimson minute flower-heads being disposed in a large, loosely-branched terminal fountain-like panicle, which has a peculiar but delightful odor. It was introduced from New South Wales in 1800. Syn. Agatkomeris. Humming Bird Bush. JEschynomene Montevi- densis. Humming Bird's Trumpet. See Zauschneria. Hu'mulus. The Hop. From humus, the ground ; creeping on the ground if not supported. Nat. Ord. Urticacea. H. lupulus, the common garden Hop, has been under cultivation in Europe from a very early period. It was well known by the Romans, and is mentioned by Pliny under the name of Lupus salictarius. It was introduced from Flanders into England in 1524. Its culti- vation, however, met with violent opposition ; petitions to Parliament were presented against it, in which it was stigmatized as "a wicked weed that would spoil the drink and endanger the people." The Hop, like all the dioecious family, bears its flowers on separate plants ; the female plant, therefore, is alone culti- vated. The Hop is increased by cuttings from the most healthy of the old shoots ; two buds are required, one beneath the ground, from which will spring the roots, and from the other the stalk. H. Japan Urns, the Japan Hop, is a rapid-growing climber, similar in appear- ance to the common Hop. Neither heat, drought, nor insects seem to trouble it, render- ing it a valuable plant for covering trellises, verandas, etc. Introduced from Japan in 1886. Hungarian Millet, or Hungarian Grass. Pani- cum German icum. This is a very valuable grass for light soils, and is very early, with abundant foliage, two to throe feet in height. It stands drought well, and is very popular with those who are clearing timber lands. Hunnema'nnia. Named in honor of J. Hunne- mann, a zealous botanist and botanical collec- tor. Nat. Ord. Papateraceir. An erect-growing herbaceous, tender peren- nial, allied to Eschscholtzia. H. fuinarurfolia, the only species, is a native of Mexico; it grows to the height of two or three feet, with glaucous leaves, resembling those of the Fumatories, and bears large, solitary terminal flowers, like those of the Esc'hschoUzia. HYA Although a perennial, it can be successfully grown as an annual by starting the seeds early in spring, in the green-house or hot-bed. Huntley'a. Named after the Rev. Mr. Huntley, a zealous collecter of plants. Nat. Ord. Orchidacea}. A small genus of epiphytal Orchids, natives of South America. The genus is closely related to Zygopefalum. H. violacea, from Demerara, is a very handsome species, its flowers being large and of an intense violet color, which is quite uncommon among Orchids. This species is also known as Bollea violacea and Pescatoria violacea. It is evergreen, and requires but a short season of rest, and should be grown in the shade and never allowed to become wholly dry. It is increased by division ; introduced in 1831. Huntsman's Cup. One of the popular names of Sarraeenia purpurea, from a fancied resem- blance. Hu'ra. Sand-box Tree. The name of the tree in South America. Nat. Ord. Euphorbiacea. A small genus of tropical evergreen trees, with whitish-yellow flowers. H. crepitans, the only species, is the sand-box tree of tropical America. It is a branching tree of thirty to forty feet high, often planted for the sake of its shade, for which it is well adapted, having a great abundance of glossy, poplar-like leaves. The flowers are inconspicuous, and are succeeded by curious rounded, hard-shelled fruit about the size of an orange, which is divided into deep furrows, in each of which is a cell containing a single flattened seed. When the fruit is ripe and exposed to the action of a dry atmosphere, it bursts with great force, accompanied by a loud, sharp crack, like the report of a pistol, for which reason it has often been called the Monkey's Dinner-bell. The seeds are much used in medicine, and the timber in the mechanic arts. Hyacinth Bean. A common name for Dolichos lablab. Hyaci'nthus. The Hyaointh. The name of this genus originated with the fabulists of an- tiquity. It was pretended that Hyacinthus, a beautiful boy, was the son of a Spartan king, and the favorite of Apollo. Zephyrus, being envious of the attachment of Apollo and Hyacinthus, so turned the direction of a quoit which Apollo had pitched while at play, that it struck the head of Hyacinthus and slew him. The fable concludes by making Apollo transform the body of his favorite into the tlower that bears his name. Nat. Ord. LiliacecB. This genus comprises about thirty species of bulbous plants, the majority of which are natives of the Mediterranean region, and the East. H. orientalis. from which species the numerouseultivated varieties have originated, is a native of the Levant, and was first intro- duced into England in 1596, but it was known to Dio'seoridos, who wrote about the time of Vespasian. Gerarde, in his Herbal, pub- lished at the close of the sixteenth century, enumerates four varieties, the single and double blue, the purple and the violet. In that valuable old book on gardening, " Para- disi in Sole Paradisus terrestris," published by John Parkinson in 1629, there are men- 196 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS HYA tioned and described eight different varieties. He tells us " some are pure white ; another is almost white, but having a show of blueness, especially at the brims and bottoms of the flowers ; others again are of a very faint blush ; some are of as deep a purple as a vio- let; others of a purple tending to redness, and some of a paler purple ; some again are of a fair blue ; and some so pale a blue as if it were more white than blue. After the flowers are past, there rise up great three-square heads, bearing round black seed, great and shining." During the two hundred and fifty years that have passed since the above was penned, there has been a steady improvement in the size, form and color of the flowers of this plant. From the eight varieties of 1629, more than four thous- and varieties have been produced and cata- logued, from which number upward of two hundred varieties are subjects of extensive commerce. The Hyacinth is a universal favorite in the most extended application of the word. The number of its varieties is now fully equal to that of any other florist's flower. They are usually grown for forcing into flower in the dull, cheerless months of winter and early spring, when their delicately- colored flowers and rich fragrance lend a charm not otherwise to be found. They are equally desirable for planting in beds, or in the garden border. For forcing, the bulbs should be potted about the middle of Septem- ber in five inch pots in rich, light earth, and placed in a cold frame or under a wall, where they can be covered with wooden shutters, or some similar contrivance, to keep off heavy rains ; in either case they should be covered a foot thick with newly-fallen leaves, and being once well watered after potting, they may be left for a month to form their roots, when the most forward should be brought out, and placed in a gentle heat. Some care is necessary in the application and increase of this, or the flowers will be abortive ; it should not exceed 50° for the first three weeks, but afterward may be increased gradually to 60° or 65°, and if the pots are plunged into bottom heat the same careful increase should be ob- served, or the points of the roots will infal- libly be killed. One-third the depth of the pot is fully sufficient at first, and if the heat is brisk they should not be plunged more than half way at any time. When the flower stems have risen to nearly their full height, and the lower flowers of the spike are beginning to expand, the plants should be removed to a lower temperature, usually afforded by the green-house, and when the flowers are fully expanded, the plants can be taken to the sit- ting-room or wherever their presence is de- sired, observing to protect them from sudden changes or cold draughts of air, and the water given to them should be moderately warm. Hyacinths in glasses are an elegant and appropriate ornament to the drawing- room, and for this purpose occasion little trouble. The bulbs should be procured and placed in the glasses as early in the season as possible, keeping them in the dark until their roots are well started, after which the lightest position that can be afforded is the best ; the water in which they grow should be changed twice or thrice a week, and in severe weather the plants must be removed from the window, HYB so as to be secure from frost. For decorating the flower garden, the bulbs should be planted in October or the early part of No- vember, in light, rich soil, at a depth of four inches from the crown of the bulb to the surface of the earth. It may be necessary to place sticks to them when in bloom, to prevent them from being broken by the wind, and this is all the attention they require till the foliage is with- ered, and the season has arrived for taking them up, when, instead of the usual practice of drying them at once in the sun, we would advise the Dutch method to be adopted, namely, to place them side by side on a sunny spot of ground, and cover them with about an inch of loose earth, to thoroughly ripen by the subdued heat imparted to the earth which surrounds them. Left in this position for a fortnight, they will become dry and firm, and an hour or two of sunshine will finish them properly for storing. The multiplication and growth of Hyacinths for sale is principally carried on out of doors in the vicinity of Haarlem, in Holland. The sandy soil, and moisture of both soil and climate in that country, are peculiarly favorable to the growth of the Hyacinth. Hundreds of acres are there devoted to the culture of these and kindred plants, and the Haarlem gardens are a gay sight from the early season of the year till far on in the summer. The process of multipli- cation is carried on by sowing the seeds, or by taking offsets from the parent bulb. By seeds new varieties only are obtained ; it is by offsets the already known and valued kinds are increased. The bulbs are cut cross- wise and sprinkled with sand to absorb any superfluous moisture that may exude from the incisions. After a time they are planted in the earth, when numerous small bulbs are formed on the edges of these incisions. At the expiration of one season they are again lifted from the ground, and the numerous small bulbs, still only partially developed, are separated from the parent root, and planted out again and again, year after year, for three or four years, before they become flowering bulbs of fine market quality. The white Boman Hyacinth is largely used for forcing for winter flowers by the florists of New York and all large cities. In New York alone upward of one million bulbs are used during the winter, and the number is rapidly increasing each year. The flower spikes average four cents each at wholesale. By a succession of plantings, beginning in Sep- tember, they are had in flower from November till May, and even later. The method pur- sued is similar to thatfor the Lily of the Valley (See Convallaria, where the method is de- scribed). H. Candicans, Syn. Galtonia, is a very showy species, forming a scape four to five feet high, including a raceme of from fifteen to thirty pure white, large, fragrant, drooping flowers, admirably adapted for grow- ing in clumps, in borders, or on lawns. Al- though a native of south Africa, it is quite hardy, more especially if slightly protected with leaves, etc. Hybrid. Hybrids are plants obtained by ap- plying the pollen of one species to the stigma of another; the common offspring of two distinct species. '96 BXiCINTU (WHITE KOMAN). HYACINTH (FEATHERED). IBERIS HYBRIDA NANA (DWARF CANDYTUFT). HYDRANGEA HORTENSIS ROSEA. IMPATIENS SULTANI. IBERIS (WHITE ROCKET CANDYTUFT). HYDRANGEA PANICULATA GRANDIFLORA AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 197 HYB Hybridization. It is to the careful, system- atic, and pains-taking efforts of the hybridizer that most of our "Florist's Flowers" have been brought to their present standard of excel- lence. The operation consists in removing the pollen by means of a camel's hair brush or otherwise, from the male parent and placing it on the stigma of the female or seed bearer. Of course unless the latter is receptive this proceeding would be ineffective. As a rule when the stigma is fit to be acted upon by the pollen, it becomes more or less glutinous. This condition occurs in some plants before their own anthers are ready to discharge the pollen, and in others after the pollen has been shed. In both these cases, the arrangement is evidently to prevent self-fertilization. In most plants however the stigma and anthers are developed at the same time, and with them it is necessary to remove the anthers before they burst, and at the same time by means of fine gauze or otherwise to prevent the visits of insects which might convey pollen from another flower and thus effect an undesir- able cross. Insects doubtless perform an important part in the fertilization of flowers, for upon examination a number of plants will be found to bear flowers manifestly adapted for insect visitation. Not to mention the Orchid family which Darwin observed so closely and has described so minutely, the curious genus of Stapelia is fertilized solely by the larvae of a fly, generally the common "Blue Bottle." This fly, attracted by the offensive odor of the flower, lays its eggs as far as it can in the tube of the corolla. These eggs hatching, the larvro they produce come in contact with the pollen-granules which adhere to them and which they carry to the pistils and thus fertilize them. A similar office is performed for Ceropegia by a small fly in the perfect state. As a rule, flowers possessing much fragrance, and secreting nectar, and those of gay colors, are more or less dependent on insect agency. Herma- phrodite flowers, being provided with both stamens and pistils, pollen and ovary, one would suppose to be amply furnished with the powers of reproduction, yet it has been abun- dantly shown that flowers fertilized by "themselves do not produce such vigorous and healthy seeds and offspring as those fertilized by another flower of the same species ; hence the disadvantage of breeding in and in, the nearer the degree of consanguinity, the less prospect is there of healthy and vigorous off- spring. The hybridizer therefore finds a flower of good shape but defective in color, crosses it with another, defective perhaps in shape but of a novel and desirable color, a weakly growing variety of good habit, is cross- ed with a more robust variety, lacking the peculiar qualities of the former and so on. With regard to Double Flowers, if the finest colored and best shaped flowers of the single sorts are selected as in the Petunia, the anthers carefully removed before they burst, and then fertilized with pollen from the best double or even semi-double flowers attainable, fifty to seventy-five per cent, of the progeny may be relied upon to produce flowers equal to, and often superior, to the parent. In a lecture before the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, the Hon. Marshall P. Wilder, a most successful hybridizer, said, "In my experi- HYD ments, I have discovered that for the pro- duction of double flowers, it is important that the pollen used for impregnation should be borne on a petaloid anther — that is, an anther bearing a small petal — and that this is still better if from a double flower. I also observed that the larger and better developed this petaloid anther, the better chance for a fine double offspring; for as might have been expected, the anthers being connected with the corolla, the number of petals would be increased by such an operation. I found also that for the most perfect and symmetrical flowers, it was better to select single flowers, which were the most perfect in their petals for seed bearers ; and that single or semi- double sorts with perfect corollas, when impregnated with petaloid pollen, will pro- duce double flowers of a regular symmetrical formation. Of this I have the most conclu- sive evidence in the Camellia Wilderii, and many other fine double varieties in my col- lection which were produced from a single red and single white Camellia, fertilized by pollen from a petaloid anther of double varieties." Mr. Wilder for many years made the hybridization of Camellias a speciality and to his efforts we owe some of the best vari- eties in cultivation. Hydra'ngea. From hydor, water, and aggeion, a vessel ; referring to the cup form of the cap- sule or seed-vessel. Nat. Ord. Saxifragacece. A genus of showy shrubs, first introduced into England in 1790 by Sir Joseph Banks, who sent H. hortensis from China, and since then a number of species have been sent to this country from Japan, among which is a climbing variety, H. volubilis, or scandens, that will adapt itself to almost any situation. It is slow growing and a little tender while young, and is still scarce. What has been known as the climbing Hydrangea, will be found described under Schizophragma. The flowers, or rather bracts, of H. hortensis are pink, but in some soils they become of a deep blue. This change is effected artificially by using iron filings, incorporating them in the soil. A distinct white variety of H. hortensis, known as "Thos. Hogg," is now very popu- lar. To cultivate these plants in perfection, cuttings should be taken every season from the strongest shoots of the old plants in July or August ; and after being struck, should be potted in rich earth, and encouraged to grow vigorously. A cold pit or frame, with fre- quent applications both of manure and plain water, will usually effect this, and cause them to become thoroughly established and strong before the winter. In this state they may either be forced in a gentle, moist heat through December and the spring months to bloom early, or kept cool for the production of summer flowers ; in either case, it must be borne in mind that they require abundance of moisture when in an active state. H. pani- culata grandiflora, introduced a few years since from Japan, is among the finest of all hardy shrubs for the lawn or the border. The flowers are white, and are produced in the greatest abundance in August, and remain till mid-winter in a dried condition. H. Otaksa, also recently introduced from Japan, is of the habit of H. hortensis, but a stronger grower, and more profuse bloomer, forming a 198 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS HYD very superior sort for pot culture for decora- tive purposes. H. h. rosea is another variety with large deep rose-pink-colored globular trusses, very free flowering and desirable. H. stellata prolifera introduced from Japan in 1868, is a most beautiful free flowering double pink variety, with large trusses of flowers often nine inches in diameter. Hydra'stis. Yellow Root. Yellow Puccoon. Prom hydor, water; referring to the marshy places where it grows. Nat. Ord. Ranuncu- lacem. H. Canadensis, the only species, is a hardy herbaceous perennial, common in moist woods in the Northern and Eastern States, where it was formerly esteemed in domestic medicine. It has a thick knotty yellow un- derground stem or root, which in early spring sends up a simple stem, about a foot high, bearing near the top two (or rarely three) hand-shaped leaves, the upper leaf growing close upon the stem, while the lower one has a longish stalk. The flower is solitary, incon- spicuous, and produced at the top of the stem. The fruit greatly resembles a red raspberry. The yellow ropt of this plant was formerly employed by the Indians for dyeing a bright yellow color, and it is occasionally used for the same purpose at the present day. The root is also used in medicine as a nar- cotic. Hydriaste'le. From hydria, a water vessel or fountain, and stele, a column ; in allusion to the tall stems growing near springs. Nat. Ord. Palmacem. H. Wendlandiana is the name now given to the beautiful Australian Palm, known in cul- tivation as Kentia Wendlandiana. Hydro'charis. From hydor, water, and charis, grace ; a pretty water plant. Nat. Ord. Hydrocharidacece. A small floating aquatic giving name to the small order which contains the Stratioides or Water Soldier, and the curious Vallisneria or Eel Grass. H. morsus ranee, or Frog-bit is an elegant little plant inhabiting ditches, ponds, and the still back waters of rivers. It is one of the most desirable plants for the fresh water aquarium. Hydroco'tyie. From hydor, water, and cotyle, a cavity ; in reference to the plants growing in moist situations, and the leaves being hol- lowed like cups. Nat. Ord. Umbelliferce. A genus of uninteresting, marshy plants, common throughout the United States, and popularly known as Water Pennywort. There are about a dozen species. Hydrophylla'cese. A small natural order of annual or perennial herbs or small trees, natives chiefly of north-west America. A few are found in the East Indies and the Gape of Good Hope. They have usually alternate and lobed, hispid leaves, with chiefly white or blue flowers, in one-sided cymes or racemes, which are mostly bractless, and coiled from the apex when young, as in the Borage family. Well known genera are Nemophila, Eutoca, Phacelia and Whitlavia. Hydrophy'llum. Water Leaf. From hydor, water, and phyllon, a leaf ; leaves loaded with water in spring-time. Nat. Ord. Hydrophyl- lacece. HYO A genus of herbaceous perennials, natives chiefly of the Western States. The flowers are pale white or blue, bell-shaped, in cymose clusters, and the species grow generally among moist shady rocks. Hydropy'rum. Canada, or Indian Rice. A synonym for Zizania, which see. Hyema'lis. Of or belonging to winter ; gener- ally applied to plants that bloom in winter. Hymenoca'llis. From hymen, a membrane, and kalos, beautiful ; referring to the mem- branous cup inside of the flower. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. A genus of hardy and green-house bulbs, producing large white flowers similar to the Pancratium, to which class they are closely allied, and under which name they are described in "Chapman's Flora of the South- ern States." H. rotatum, H. occidentale and other species are found in great abundance in the swamps of Virginia and southward, and are sent to market in large quantities, and sold on the streets of all our large cities as "Spanish Lilies." They are considered poor tenants for the green-house, as they do not pay in beauty for the required room and care. The genus Ismene is included under Hymenocallis by some authors. See Ismene and Pancratium. Hymeno'dium. A synonym of Acrostichum. Hymenophy'llum. Filmy-leaf Fern. From hymen, a membrane, and phyllon, a leaf. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. A genus of very beautiful Ferns, mostly natives of Chili and New Zealand, where they grow in moist ravines. The fronds are varia- ble, some being very minute, and others of large size ; some single, others compound. Several of the species are highly esteemed for cultivation in the green-house. Hymenospo'rum. From hymen, a membrane, and sporos, seed; the seeds are girded by membranous wings. Nat. Ord. Pittosporacem. H. flavum, the only species, is a handsome evergreen plant from eastern Australia. It is of branching habit, with broadly obovate- lanceolate, glaucous leaves. The flowers form a compound terminal corymb, and are yellow, marked with orange-red at the mouth of the tube-like portion, and clothed outside with silky hairs. Syn. Pittosporum flavum. Hyopho'rbe. From hyos, a hog, and phorbus, pasturage. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. A small genus of Palms, inhabiting the island of Bourbon and Mauritius, and having tall cylindrical stems, marked with circular scars, and a crown of graceful pinnate leaves. The male and female flowers grow on distinct trees, or a few males are occasionally inter- spersed among the females, the flower-spikes being simply branched and growing out from beneath the leaves, with a single spathe at their base. The fruit has a fibrous, fleshy rind, and contains a single seed. H. Versch- affeltii, formerly known as Areca Verschaffeltii, is one of the most ornamental species. Young plants are produced from seed. Hyoscy'amus. Henbane. From hyos, a hog, and kyamos, a bean ; the fruit is eaten by hogs. Nat. Ord. Solanacece. AND GENEKAL HORTICULTURE. 199 HYP H. niger is the common Henbane whose virtue consists in the supposed power it has of absorbing malaria that is generated around filthy habitations. It is also culti- vated for its medicinal properties. Hyperica'ceae. A natural order of herbs, shrubs, or trees, with a resinous juice, opposite, rarely whorled, entire, exstipulate leaves, usually with transparent dots, and blackish glands, and regular flowers. The plants of this order are generally distributed over the world, both in temperate and warm climates. Many species yield a yellow juice and an essential oil. There are ten genera, and nearly three hundred species. Illustrative genera are Hypericum, Elodea, and Ascyrum. Hype'ricum. St. John's Wort. The name is said to be derived from yper, over, and eicon, an image ; the superior part of the flower represents a figure. Nat. Ord. Hypericacece. The pretty, yellow-flowered shrubs and herbaceous perennials known by this name at the present day, were formerly, in ignorant communities, in high repute for driving away evil spirits ; and on this account were gen- erally planted near dwelling-houses. They were also highly valued for their medicinal properties, being believed to have a powerful effect in stopping blood and healing wounds. All the kinds will thrive under the drip of trees ; and they will grow almost anywhere, though they prefer moisture and a moderate shade. They are found in almost all the temperate climates of the world ; and are propagated by seeds and by division of the roots. Hyphae'ne. From hyphaino, to entwine ; re- ferring to the fibres of the fruit. Nat. Ord. Palmacetz. A small genus of African palms confined to, and widely distributed throughout that con- tinent, more particularly upon the eastern 6ide, extending from Egypt as far south as Natal. The genus is remarkable for having the stems branched, a peculiarity not frequent among palms, each branch terminating in a tuft of large fan-shaped leaves, from amongst which the branching catkin-like spikes of flowers are produced, the different sexes being borne on different trees. H. thebaica is the Doum Palm, or Gingerbread tree of Egypt. It seldom exceeds twenty-five or thirty feet in height, and its stem is frequently three or fou»- times branched or forked in old trees, though when young it is always simple. The fruits which are produced in long clusters, each containing between one and two hundred, are beautifully polished, of a rich yellowish, brown color, and of irregular form. In Upper Egypt they form part of the food of the poorer classes of inhabitants, the part eaten being the fibrous mealy husk, which tastes almost exactly like gingerbread, but its dry husky nature renders it unpalatable. The hard tough wood is used for making various domestic utensils ; and rosaries are cut out of the horny seed. Hypocaly'mma. From hypo, under, and kaiymma, a veil ; the calyx, falling off like a veil, or hood. Nat. Ord. "Myrtacece. A genus of ornamental evergreen shrubs, containing about twelve species, natives of Australia. H. robustum is a charming little HYS green-house plant, bearing a profusion of small bright rose-colored flowers, and having an odor resembling lemons. It is of easy culture, and is increased readily by cuttings. Introduced in 1842. Hypocalyptus. From hypo, under, and kalypto, to hide ; named from a covering to the un- opened flower. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. H. obcordatus, the only species is an orna- mental green-house evergreen shrub from the Cape of Good Hope. It has neat trifoliate leaves and purple flowers, appearing in June and July. It was introduced in 1823, and is propagated by cuttings of the side shoots. Syn. Crotolaria purpurea. Hypocrateriform. Salver-shaped ; having a long slender tube and a flat limb, as in the Primrose. Hypocy'rta. A genus of Gesneracece, contain- ing a few species, natives of South America. They are procumbent under-shrubs, throwing out roots from below the origin of their opposite and fleshy leaves. The flowers are axillary and solitary, or several together, generally bright scarlet in color. They were introduced in 1846, and are increased by cut- tings, or seeds. Hypoe'stes. A considerable genus of Acarv- thaceae, dispersed over Africa, tropical Asia, and Australia, and remarkably abundant in Madagascar. They are shrubs or small trees, with entire or dentate leaves, and large purple or rose-colored flowers in axillary clusters or short spikes, often numerous and forming a terminal leafy thyrse. Nearly forty species have been described ; increased by cuttings. Hypogseous. Growing under the earth. Hypogynous. Growing from below the base of the ovary. Hypo'lepis. From hipo, under, and lepis, a scale. Nat. Ord. PolypodiacecB. A small genus of handsome free-growing ferns, natives of tropical America, south Africa, New Zealand, etc., nearly allied to Cheilanthes. The fronds are evergreen, bi- or quadripinnate, with free veins. These are plants of easy culture, thriving best in a rough, coarse soil; they should have good drainage and plenty of water. Hypo'ads. Star Grass. From hypo, beneath, and oxys, sharp ; referring to the seed pod. Nat. Ord. AmarylliducetB. H. erecta, a very pretty bulb, found in meadows and waste places in New England, and southward. The flowers are bright yel- low inside, brownish outside, and borne on umbels on a scape about a foot high. Hyssop. See Hyssopus. Hysso'pus. From Hyssopos, the old Greek name, used by Hippocrates. Nat. Ord. Labi- aim. The garden Hyssop is a native of Siberia, and the mountainous parts of Austria. It was early introduced into the garden in this country, and has escaped in many places to the roadsides. It is considerably grown as a medicinal herb, but is not, however, much esteemed except in domestic practice. This is not supposed to be the Hyssop mentioned in the Old Testament, and it has not been ascertained what plant is referred to. As it was one of the smallest plants, and " grew out of the wall," some have conjectured it to be one of the Mosses. HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS I. IBE Ibe'ris. Candytuft. From Iberia, the ancient name of Spain, where the original species abounds. Nat. Ord. Cruciferoe. The genus consists of annuals, biennials and perennials, all perfectly hardy and of the easiest culture. The common name Candy- tuft was given because they flower in tufts, and the first introduced species, /. umbellata, was brought from Candia. For the early flower- ing of the annual varieties, the seed should be sown in the fall, and slightly protected from the sun, during winter, by leaves or any convenient dry mulching; they will come into flower in May. The plants of I. coronaria, Rocket Candytuft, should be thinned out to one or two feet apart each way ; then, if in rich soil, they will completely cover the ground. The sub-shrubby species, I. cor- reafolia, I. Gibraltarica, I. sempervirens and others, are most handsome, compact-growing plants, admirably adapted for the front rows ©f shrubbery or herbaceous borders. If grown in cold frames, and kept a little close towards spring, they will bloom at least three weeks before those out-of-doors, and are val- uable for early decorations, or for cut flowers. Iceland Moss. See Lichen. Ice Plant. See Mesembryanthemum. Ide'sia. Named after Y. Ides, a Dutch traveler in China. Nat. Ord. Flacourtiacece. I. polycarpa, the representative species of this genus, is a beautiful tree, found in Japan, and said to be perfectly hardy around New York. The leaf stem is from six to twelve inches long and bright red, with leaves nearly round and from six to eight inches broad. The flowers are yellowish-green, in long drooping racemes, and very fragrant. The fruit is about the size of a cherry, of an orange color, and edible. Syn. Flacourtia. I'lex. The Holly** Name originally from the Celtic, oc or ac, signifying a point ; on account of the prickly leaves. Nat. Ord. Aquifoliacem. An extensive genus of evergreen trees and shrubs, remarkable for their glossy, prickly foliage and scarlet fruit, that remains on the shrub during the winter. They are well adapted for the lawn or for hedges, and grow best in a dry loam. I. aquifolium is the Holly of the English gardens, and I. opaca is the American Holly, which grows plentifully from New York southward. It is to be regretted that the English Holly, the most beautiful of all evergreens, isunsuited to our climate, being in the Northern States too tender to withstand our winters, while the hot, dry summers of the Southern States are equally injurious to it. I. Paraguariensis, a native of Paraguay and Brazil, furnishes the Paraguay tea, or Yerba de Mate, which occupies the same im- portant position in the domestic economy of South America as the Chinese tea does in this country, and it is calculated that it is con- sumed in that country to the extent of about 8,000,000 pounds annually. It has been in use for about a century and a half, the practice having been adopted from the aboriginal peo- IMP pie. The leaves are prepared by drying and roasting, when they are reduced to a powder, which is prepared for drinking by putting a small quantity into a gourd or cup, with a lit- tle sugar. The drinking tube is then inserted and boiling water poured on the Mate ; when sufficiently cool the infusion is sucked up through the tube. It has an agreeable, slightly aromatic odor, is rather bitter to the taste, and very refreshing and restorative to the human frame after enduring great fatigue. It contains the same active principles as tea and coffee, called theine, but not their volatile and empyreumatic oils. Illici'neae. A small natural order, generally placed as a sub-order of Aquifoliacem. Illi'cium. Aniseed Tree. From illicio, to allure ; referring to the perfume. Nat. Ord. Magnoliacece. A small genus of evergreen shrubs or low- growing trees, with smooth entire leaves, exhaling when bruised, a strong odor of Ani- seed. They are natives of the extreme Southern States, Japan, southern China, and Asia. I. religiosum, a Japanese species, is a small tree about the size of a cherry, and is held sacred by the Japanese. The leaves of this species, like those of /. floridanum, are said to possess poisonous properties. In Ala- bama the plant has acquired the name of Poison-Bay. Ima'ntophy'llum. From imas, imantos, a leather thong, and phyllon, a leaf; alluding to the shape and substance of the foliage. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. Those with authority to speak of plants seem determined that the only species of this genus shall have neither name nor home. Some insist upon calling it Clivia nobilis; others want to reverse it, and have C. nobilis called i". Aitoni. Then, again, for variety's sake, some prefer the orthography Imatophyl- Iwm. Most writers call Imantophyllum and Clivia synonymous. That they are closely allied we do not doubt. Having flowered them frequently, we find the flowers of /. mini- atum (the only species) to be erect, and much larger than Clivia nobilis, the flowers of which are drooping and of a darker color. This spe- cies, introduced from Natal in 1854, is propa- gated by division, and requires the same culture as the Clivia. Many beautiful hybrids, having larger and more highly-colored flowers than the type, have of late years been put in commerce in Britain and on the Continent, and are most attractive and valuable acquisitions to this genus. Imbricated. When bodies overlap each other, like the tiles or shingles on a roof. Immarginate. Having no rim or edge. Immersed. Growing entirely under water. Immortelle. The popular name for Helichry- sum orientate, which see. Impa'tiens. Balsam, Silver Weed, Jewel Weed. From impatient, impatient ; referring to the AND GENEEAL HORTICULTURE. 201 IMP elasticity of the valves of the seed-pod, which discharge the seeds when ripe. A genus of GeraniacecB, chiefly found in India, though a few species occur in Europe and North Amer- ica. They are generally glabrous herbs, with thick succulent stems, enlarged at the joints, where the undivided leaves are given off. The flowers are axillary, often handsome, and so very irregular that considerable difference of opinion exists as to which parts belong to the calyx, and which to the corolla. The green- house species may be propagated from cut- tings or from seeds, when these are to be obtained. J. Sultani, introduced from Zanzi- bar, is one of the most beautiful and useful flowering plants of late introduction, produc- ing its bright rose-scarlet flowers almost con- tinually. It succeeds well in a green-house in spring and summer, but requires a warm house for winter. J. Hawkerii, introduced from the South Sea Islands, has very large flatly expanded flowers of the most brilliant, rich deep carmine color, relieved by a lustrous bluish tinge round the small white eye, the spur being red and about two inches long. It is of free growth and produces its flowers in great profusion from March until October. I. Jerdonice, a dwarf species, is best grown as a basket plant, started into growth in April, and rested during winter. Our native species of this genus are gener- ally known as Touch-Me-Nots, from the sudden bursting of the pods when touched. They are interesting annuals, common in damp ground throughout the United States. The Balsam of our gardens is I. Balsamina, and is de- scribed under Balsam, which see. Imphee. See Sorghum. Incised. Regularly divided by deep incisions. Incurved, Incurvate. Bending inwards; as where the stamens curve towards the pistil. Indian Bean. See Catalpa. Indian Corn. See Zea. Indian Cress. The genus Tropoeolum. Indian Crocus. The genus Pleione. Indian Cucumber Root. See Medeola. Indian Currant. The common name of the fruit of the Symphoricarpus vulgaris. Indian Fig. See Opuntia. Indian Hawthorn. See Raphiolepis. Indian Hemp. See Apocynum. Indian Hill-Guava. See Rhodomyrtus. Indian Mallow. A common name of Abutilon Avicennce, a troublesome weed in fields and waste places. It is a native of India, and was introduced into our gardens as an ornamental plant, but is now naturalized, and is spoken of as valuable for its fibre. Indian Millet. One of the popular names of Sorghum vulgare, to which species belong Broom Corn, Sweet Sorghum, and other cul- tivated varieties. Indian Pink. One of the popular names for Dianthus Chinensis. Indian Pipe. A common name of the Monotropa uniflora. See Corpse Plant. Indian Plantain. The popular name of the genus Cacalia, common in rich, damp woods in most of the States. INS Indian Poke. Veratrum viride, or White Helle- bore. Indian Rice or Water Rice. See Zizania. Indian Shot. See Canna. Indian Strawberry. Fragaria indica. Indian Tobacco. See Lobelia inflata. Indian Turnip. See Ariswma. India Rubber Tree. See Ficus elastica. Indigenous. A plant which is the natural pro- duction of any country ; not exotic. Indigo. See Indigofera tinctoria. Wild. Baptisia tinctoria. Indigo'fera. From indigo, a blue dyestuff ; a corruption of Indicum, Indian, and fero, to bear ; most of the species produce the well- known dye called Indigo. Nat. Ord. Legumi- nosai. An extensive genus of rather ornamental herbaceous perennials, tender annuals, and evergreen shrubs, grown almost wholly for the commercial value of the dyes they pro- duce. J. tinctoria, the species most commonly cultivated, is a native of the East Indies and other parts of Asia, but it has been intro- duced into, and become naturalized in, the Southern States, and was formerly extensively cultivated, as was J. anil, the West India In- digo, a stronger growing species, from both of which large quantities of Indigo were made. They are tender shrubs, growing from four to six feet high, with very pinnate leaves, and axillary racemes of pink and purple flow- ers. The shrubby species are propagated by cuttings, and the annuals from seeds. Indusium. The membraneous covering of the spore-cases of many Ferns. Inferior. When one organ is placed below an- other; thus an inferior calyx grows below the ovary, while an inferior ovary grows, or seems to grow, below a calyx. Inflated. Thin, membraneous, slightly trans- parent, swelling equally, as if inflated with air. I'nga. The South American name of 7. vera, adopted by Marcgraff. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A very extensive genus of ornamental shrubs and trees, numbering upward of one hundred and fifty species, natives of the warmer parts of South America, principally of Brazil and Guiana. The flowers are white, pink, crimson, etc., and are borne in vari- ously-shaped spikes, or in nearly globular heads, growing singly or in clusters from the angles of the leaves. I. pulcherrima, a native of Mexico, is one of the most beautiful of the genus. The foliage is smaller than most of the species, and is very ornamental. The tassel-like flowers are of a bright crimson, and very showy. The shape of the flower- heads has given it the name of Bottle Brush. All the species are propagated from cuttings of young wood in summer. Introduced in 1822. Ink-Berry. The fruit of Rex (Prinos) glabra, an evergreen shrub, common on the Atlantic coast. Insecticides. The enormous damage done by insects to our fruits, vegetables, grains, etc., is almost beyond belief, amounting, it is claimed, to over two hundred millions of dol- lars yearly in the United States alone ; their 202 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS INS prompt destruction, therefore, immediately anyare detected, is most important and essen- tial. Fortunately the extensive experiments in insecticides and the improvements in imple- ments for applying them, enable us to fight them so well that the damage done is scarcely felt when. the most is made of the opportuni- ties within reach. In applying insecticides it should be borne in mind that "enough is as good as a feast." It is not necessary to drown the insects with solutions, or to bury them in powder, to kill them ; the least parti- cle of poison is sufficient to do its deadly work, but it is necessary that " the least par- ticle " and the insect come in contact. It is much better to reach every portion of the plant or tree, underneath as well as above, with a fine spray of fluid, or a slight dusting of powder, than to apply liberally in some parts and carelessly overlook others, as is the too general custom. To fight insects effectually it must be done thoroughly, and every inch must be covered. Besides, there is much less danger of burning or injuring the leaves and fruit by light applications. The improved implements now offered for apply- ing powders or fluids are great economizers, covering large surfaces, with less material, doing it with greater speed, and reducing the danger of injury to the plants to a minimum. Of the many insecticides recommended for general use in the garden or orchard the most serviceable are London Purple, Paris Green and Kerosene Emulsion. London Purple is rapidly taking the lead. It is largely used in the public parks and on government experimental farms, and is consid- ered superior to Paris Green on account of being more soluble, there being less danger of burning the foliage with it. It is said to go further, and is certainly much cheaper, which is accounted for by its being a by-product. When used as a powder it has also the advan- tage of being more readily seen on the plants. The adulterants usually mixed with it are either land-plaster, road-dust, plaster-of-Paris or cheap flour, and it is advisable to mix thoroughly at least twenty-four hours before use, which allows the adulterant to absorb the poison, making it more effectual. "When mixed with flour one pound of London Purple, to twenty to thirty pounds of flour, is the proper proportion, according to the tender- ness of the piants ; mixed with land-plaster or plaster-of-Paris, one pound of the poison to a hundred and fifty pounds of the adulterant ; with dry road-dust, one pound of the poison to a bushel and a half of the dust. In making liquid solutions mix one pound of London Purple with two hundred gallons of water, but first wet the powder and form a thin paste to prevent it from forming lumps. It should be put in the water twelve hours at least before use, for the best results. Paris Green can be mixed in the same proportions, and in the same manner. Kerosene in its natural, undiluted state is fatal to all insect and vegetable life, but prepared (emulsified) as recommended by the Entomological Divis- ion of the Department of Agriculture at Washington, may be used safely and with much benefit. Kerosene Emulsion. Add two gallons of Kerosene to a hot solution of one-half a pound of soap in a gallon of water, and churn the INS mixture through the nozzle of a force-pump until it forms a cream-like mass. This may be kept unchanged until needed for use. For general use reduce the emulsion thus made with nine parts of water, and apply through a force-pump or syringe, three gallons of the emulsion making thirty gallons of the spraying liquid. Besides its use as an emul- sion, Kerosene, when used with discretion, is a most valuable insecticide for the destruction of Mealy-bug, Scale, etc., in the green-house. A wine-glassful to a gallon of water is suffi- cient, only when applying the solution the water must be kept thoroughly churned by forcing every other syringeful back into the bucket so as to keep it thoroughly mixed. Small plants, such as Camellias, Azaleas, Ardisias, Palms, etc., may be safely dipped in the solution if at the same time it is kept thoroughly mixed as above. Hellebore, Per- sian and Dalmatian powders, Buhach, etc., are valuable for destroying the Cabbage- worm, etc. See Insects. Insects. In the green-house or grapery, or any place where plants are grown under cover, in- sects, with few exceptions, are under control ; but when in the open field or garden we are often powerless against their ravages, par- ticularly when they attack the roots of plants. We can manage many of them, even outside, when they attack branches or leaves ; but with others we are as powerless as with those attacking the roots. There is no doubt that the encouragement of birds on farms and in gardens, by feeding and sheltering them, well repays in the return for the insects they destroy. In nearly all the large cities in thi& country, since the introduction of the Euro- pean Sparrow, though in part a seed-eater, there has been a marked absence of the " Measuring Worm," " Rose Slug," and other caterpillar-like insects. The Rose Slug (Selandria rosea) is a light- green insect, which, when fully developed is about an inch in length. There are appar- ently two kinds, one of which eats only the outer skin of the leaf on the under side, the other eats it entire. The first is by far the most destructive. In a few days after the plants are attacked, they appear as if they had been burned. An excellent appli- cation for the prevention of the Rose Slug is whale oil soap dissolved in the proportion of one pound to eight gallons of water; this, if steadily applied daily for a week with a syringe on Rose plants, in early spring, before the buds begin to develop, will never fail to prevent the attacks of this insect. If this precaution has been omitted, and the insects are seen on the leaves, white Hellebore pow- der dusted on the plants will quickly destroy them, without injury to the plants. The Rose Beetle (Aramigus Fulleri) or Bug, as it is com- monly called, however, is a much more diffi- cult insect to deal with. The Rose or Grape Vine Beetle (Melolonthasubspinosa) is another pest, usually destroying the flowers on the Rose, and both flowers and young fruit on the vine. The only certain remedy is to destroy them by hand. The Green Fly, or Aphis, is one of the most common, but most easily destroyed, of almost any insect that infests plants, either • indoors or out. In our green-houses, we fumi- AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 203 INS gate twice a week, by burning about half a pound of refuse tobacco stems (made damp) to every 500 square feet of glass surface, but in private green-houses or on plants in rooms, fumigating is often impracticable. But To- bacco in any form is quickly fatal to the Green Fly ; so in private green-houses or in rooms, where the fumes of Tobacco would be objectionable, Tobacco stems can be used by steeping one pound in five gallons of water, until the water gets to be the color of strong coffee. This is applied over and under the leaves with a syringe, and destroys the insect quite as well as by fumigating, only in either case the application should be made before the insects are seen, to prevent their coming rather than to destroy them when established ; for often by neglect they get a foothold in such legions that all remedies become inef- fectual to dislodge them, unless by brushing them off the leaves with a light brush. Another means of preventing the Green Fly is to apply Tobacco in the shape of dust or snuff. The sweepings of Tobacco warehouses can be bought in most places at a cost of five or ten cents per pound. This, applied once or twice a week to an ordinary-sized private green- house, would effectually prevent any injury from the Green Fly. No special quantity of this need be prescribed, as it is in no way hurtful to the plant ; all that is necessary is to see that it is so dusted on that it reaches all parts of the plant, and on both sides of the leaves. It is best to slightly moisten the leaves beforehand, so that the dust will adhere to them. When applied to plants out- doors, it should be done in the morning when the dew is on, or after a rain. Fruit trees of many kinds, shrubs, and Roses of all kinds, out of doors, are particularly liable to injury from some species of Aphis, but the applica- tion of Tobacco in any of the forms alluded to, if made in time, will be found a cheap and effectual remedy. Ground or Blue Aphis is another species of Aphis that gets its living from the roots down in the soil, which may have the effect of changing its color, while the Green Aphis feeds in the air on the leaves. The Blue Aphis attacks a great many varieties of plants, both flower and vegetable, particu- larly in hot, dry weather, and whenever As- ters, Verbenas, Petunias, Centaureas, Beets, Radishes, Lettuce, etc., begin to droop, it will be found on examination, in three cases out of four, that the farthest extremities of their root are completely surrounded by the Blue Aphis. The only remedy we have ever found for this pest is strong decoction of Tobacco stems, made by being boiled until it gets to the color of strong coffee, and poured on, when cold, in quantity enough to reach the extremity of the roots. There is no fear of injuring the plants by this application, as it acts as a fertilizer to some extent. The Verbena Mite, the minute cause of the "black rust" so disastrous in its ravages on the Verbena, Heliotrope, Petunia, Pelar- gonium, and various other plants, is so small that it cannot be seen by the naked eye ; but its ravages under certain conditions are so disastrous as to render the cultivation of the Verbena and some similar plants next to impossible. INS When this little pest has once got a foothold, all direct remedies to dislodge it seem to be powerless; the fumes of tobacco, so dis- tructive to the aphis, or of sulphur, which is death to the spider, fall harmlessly on this microscopic insect. There is hardly a doubt but that the fumes of sulphur and tobacco would destroy it, if it had not the power of imbedding itself in the leaf. This is evidently the case, as on subject- ing affected plants to a severe fumigation with tobacco for thirty minutes no insects could be discerned on the leaves ; but after a short time they again appeared on the field of the microscope, apparently unscathed. We also find that an excellent preventive against this insect is to syringe the plants twice a week with a weak solution of fir-tree oil ; one- half pint to five gallons of water. This seems like tobacco smoke to check it somewhat, yet it is not a complete remedy and if plants are severely attacked, there is nothing for it but to throw those affected out — as there is but little doubt that it quickly spreads. Now, although we have no direct remedy against this insect, which produces the black rust, we have, I think, a preventive, by keeping the plants in that healthy, vigorous condition which seems to be repellant to its attack. The Mealy Bug, as it is familiarly known, from its white, mealy-like appearance, be- longs to the same family as the Cochineal insect (Coccus Cacti), from which the Cochi- neal dye is obtained. It is one of the most troublesome of all insects to dislodge. The only certain remedy we have ever been able to get to kill Mealy Bug without injury to the leaves, is a mixture known as «' Cole's Insect Destroyer," the ingredients of which we do not know, as the inventor so far has been able to keep his secret. This, put on with an atomizer, never fails to destroy them. The great objection to this remedy is its price, which is entirely too high to admit of its being used on a large scale. The common method to get rid of Mealy Bug is to brush it off the leaves with a brush, made soft enough not to scratch the leaves or stems, or by using the Kerosene Emulsion. See Insecticides. Thrips (Tettigonia) vary in color, being light green, brown, and black. It is much more active in its movements than the Green Fly, and more difficult to destroy, and when it once gets a foothold is one of the most destructive enemies to the grapery or green- house. Tobacco smoke that will destroy the Aphis, has but little effect on Thrips ; but in our experiments in destroying insects in the winter of' 1881 in our green-houses, we found that Tobacco stems boiled so that the liquid from them was as dark as strong coffee or porter, was certain death to the Thrips. We had a large house of Dracaenas and other tropical plants badly affected by Thrips ; we syringed the plants freely with the Tobacco water for ten or twelve days with the most satisfactory results, as at the end of that time not an insect was to be seen, and the plants at once began to grow with unwonted vigor. The Red Spider (Acarus tellarius) is an- other well-known pest to the green-house, and, like the Thrips, seems perfectly indiffer- ent to the fumes of Tobacco. It is one of the most insidious of all our insect enemies, as it 204 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS INS works nearly always on the under part of the leaves, and often has got a firm foothold be- fore its presence has been discovered. The experienced gardener knows that the main cause of Eed Spider is a dry, hot atmosphere, as it is never present to injure in a moist at- mosphere and low temperature. So the pre- ventive is at all times an atmosphere in the green-house that will prevent the attacks of the Eed Spider, which at the same time is most congenial to the health of the plants, for it is certain that if the Eed Spider is present in force, then the atmosphere has been too dry for the well-being of the plants. To avoid this in private green-houses, where the walks cannot be splashed with water, evap- orating pans should be placed on the pipes, or any other method that may suggest itself to increase the moisture of the atmosphere. Last season we filled the space between the rows of pipe with Sphagnum Moss, from which, when wet, a steady moisture was given out. When the Eed Spider is present, the best way to destroy it is repeated forcible syringings of the leaves, with applications of a sulphur wash to the pipes, as recommended for Mildew, which see. " Carnation Twitter " is an insect but little known, and in this district only by its local name of " Carnation Twitter," given from its rapid and nervous motion. As seen by the naked eye, it is about the twentieth part of an inch in length, and of a thickness not more than that of a needle point. It is of various shades of color, from green to black. It is never very numerous on the plants, but most destructive, and evidently poisonous in its attacks on all varieties of the Carnation or Dianthus family. Its effects on plants some- what resemble those of the Eed Spider, ex- cept that, when attacked by the "Twitter," the leaves have a cankered and twisted ap- pearance, easily distinguishable from the browning effects of the Spider ; and it is far more destructive. We have often seen thous- ands of Carnation plants destroyed by it in a season. We regret to say that, so far, we have found nothing that will destroy this insect that does not at the same time injure the plant. We have tried Tobacco in all forms, lime, soot, Hellebore, Paris Green, Quassia, Aloes, and all the nostrums usually baneful to insect life, without seeming in the slightest to disturb the " Twitter." We have found, however, that its ravages are worst on light soils ; on heavy, stiff clay land we have never known it to do much injury. Brown and White Scale Insects are often troublesome on old plants of Oleanders, Orange trees, and some hot-house plants. They are best destroyed by being washed or rubbed off, or by using the Kerosene Emul- sion. See Insecticides. Slugs or Snails. These are troublesome both in the open ground and in the green- house. Salt is certain death to them, even in smallest quantities, and when in the open garden, a slight sprinkling of salt over the ground is effectual; but the sprinkling, it must be remembered, must be very slight, as salt, if put on (even as thick as sand is usually strewn on a floor) will kill almost any kind of vegetation. In our green-houses the snails usually feed at night, getting under the benches during the day. We have found a INS most effectual remedy in strewing a thin line of salt on edge of each bench ; — this makes a complete '• dead line " for the Slugs or Snails, for they cannot cross it and live. Another plan is to slice up potatoes, carrots, cabbage, or lettuce leaves, to feed on, for which they will leave all other plants. Examine these traps daily, and destroy the captives. Ants. — These are sometimes very de- structive to vegetation, particularly in dry, sandy soils. We have repeatedly suffered serious losses from them, both in our green- houses and out of doors. The most effica- cious remedy we have tried is to saturate pieces of sponge with sugar, or to place fresh bones around their haunts ; they will leave everything else to feed on these, and when they are thus trapped, can be destroyed by dipping in hot water or burning. Another method is to blow Pyrethrwm or Persian Insect Powder over them with a bellows. They are killed at once if the powder strikes them in a dry state ; but it has no effect if damp, for, when strewed in their haunts, they run over it with impunity. The Angle Worm, or the common red worm, seen in nearly every soil, in pots or in the open ground, is harmless as far as feeding on the plant goes, for it does not feed on the plants, but bores and crawls around in a way which seriously disturbs the roots of plants, particularly when growing in pots. Some savant has recently given it as his opinion that the Angle Worm is highly beneficial in pulverizing the soil, and that Nature has placed it there for that purpose. We are afraid that there are few cultivators that feel grateful to the Angle Worm for such service, and that most of us would rather be allowed to do our own pulverizing without this "natural" assistance. The Angle Worm is easily destroyed with the following solution : one peck of shell lime in forty gallons of water, allowing the residue to settle at the bottom, and watering the plants with the clear lime water. The caustic of the lime acts on the cuticule of the worms, and is quickly fatal to them. There are many insects that attack the Cabbage tribe, among the best known of which is that which causes the disease known as "Club Boot" (which see). Another enemy of the Cabbage plant, and one that is sometimes even more destructive than the Club Boot, is the Cabbage Caterpillar or Cabbage Worm. This insect is comparatively a new comer in the vicinity of New York, having been, it is believed, imported from Europe. It is pro- duced by a small white butterfly that is seen hovering over the Cabbage patches in spring. It attacks the leaves of the plant, and is such a voracious feeder that it will quickly destroy a whole plantation. We find an excellent remedy for this pest to be White Hellebore powder, which must, however, be put on in the early stage of the plant's existence, as when heading up, of course, it would not be safe to apply it. The past fall and winter our cold-frame Cabbage and Cauliflower plants were attacked by the Cabbage Worm, both in the seed bed in the open field, and also after being transplanted into the frames. One good dusting of White Hellebore powder destroyed them completely on both occasions. IPOMOPSIS. IPOMOEA COCCINEA. IPOMCEA PURPUREA. ICE PLANT (MESEMBKYANTHEMUM). IXIA V1KIDIFLORA. IPOMOSA (CALONYCTION) GRAKDIFLORA (MOON FLOWEB OK EVENING GLOKY). 304 IRIS GEB1IANICA. IBIS HISPANICA. IBIS SUSIANA. IBIS ANGLICA. IBIS K^MTFEBI. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 205 INS For application when the plants are heading up nothing is more efficacious, or more easy of application, than Persian or Dalmatian insect powder. As it is practically harmless to man, and the higher animals, it can be applied by a bellows, at any stage of the plant's growth, and, if of a good grade, it is certain death to all insects which it strikes. Many southern growers say it is the only effectual, and at the same time, perfectly safe cure for the Cabbage Worm. There are three kinds of insects which attack the roots of Cabbages after being planted out in the field to head. One is a species of Wire Worm, that imbeds itself in the stem, for which, we regret to say, we can suggest no remedy that will not at the same time kill the plant. Another, of a dull gray color, resembling a caterpillar in shape, is known by the popular and expressive name of Cut-worm, based upon their practice of eating off the young plants at the level of the ground. They are the larvae of several species of Noctuidce, and are nocturnal in their habits, lying just under the surface of the ground during the day, and feeding at night. They hatch out early in spring, and feed on grass, weeds, etc., and when the ground is cleared and the plants set out, their enforced fast makes them doubly dangerous. The following extract from a communication to Garden and Forest may be of service to many : "Various means have been tried to keep them from the plants — lime, salt, gas-tar and a variety of other repellants have been em- ployed, all with a variable, usually small, degree of success. Later, as the habits of the worms became better known, traps were prepared for them. Holes were driven with a dibble, around the newly-set plants, and the Cut-worms wandering about fell into them, and, being unable to climb up the smooth sides, perished there. Traps were set in the form of chips and short pieces of board, which proved convenient hiding places for the larvse, and there they could be readily found during the day and destroyed. Still later, balls of grass and succulent leaves were scattered about the fields, and there the worms congre- gated, and were easily destroyed during the day. More recently, the grass balls were poisoned, by being soaked in a pail of water into which a teaspoonful of London Purple had been stirred, and the Cut-worms were thus killed without the labor attendant upon a daily visitation of the lures. The trapping system with the aid of poisoned lures has, on the whole, proved most satisfactory ; but, as in the case of all applications of insecticides, the element of time is a most important factor, and in many cases really determines success or failure. "There is comparatively little success from lures placed after a field has been set out and where vegetation has started, since the worms will prefer young, growing plants, to the lures, and after the larvee become full grown and ready for pupation, lures, of course, fail in attracting more than a very few belated specimens. The proper time for a Cut-worm campaign is just after the ground has been prepared for the crop to go in it, and while it is clear and free from vegetation — if possible only a day or two before planting — the poisoned lures should be spread about INS liberally, and the vast majority of all the Cut- worms in the prepared grou»d will be attracted and destroyed. It is, of course, not likely that the destruction will be complete, but the percentage of plants lost will be very much lessened, and will be insignificant in compari- son to the damage that would have been otherwise caused." The other is the Cabbage Maggot. One of the most destruc- tive insects we have to contend with in growing Cabbage or Cauliflower is the Cabbage Mag- got. The only remedy is prevention — which requires close observation. Just as soon as the Cabbage or Cauliflower becomes well rooted in the open field after planting out (in the latitude of New York usually about middle of May), close attention will show a small black fly hovering around the plants that deposits usually about twenty eggs, of a whitish color and about the size of a pin's head. Before the eggs hatch out each plant must be fingered around so as to displace them from the stem. This is quickly done, and it is, we believe, the only known remedy to save the crop. The Curchlio or Plum Weevil. This 1 ittle beetle is one of the greatest orchard pests, attacking not only the Plum, Cherry, Peach and other stone fruits, but also doing serious dam- age to the Apple. Its attacks are followed by great deformity in the fruit. The Apples are often stung many times and become so gnarled, distorted, and scarred as to be wholly worth- less. An almost certain remedy is to use a tablespoonful of London Purple or Paris Green to six gallons of water, syringed on the trees every other day for fifteen days, beginning the operation as the flower begins to drop, as it is just when the fruit is forming that the insect deposits its egg. No danger need be apprehended from the small quantity of the poison used, as it will be all washed from the fruit long before it ripens. Another remedy, which will effectually save a crop in the dis- tricts infested by this insect, is to jar the tree in the morning or in cool days, first spreading sheets under the trees to catch the weevils, after which they may be burned. If this is begun as soon as the Plums are formed, and persisted in every few days until they are ripe, a large share of the crop may be saved. This may be thought to be paying rather dear for a crop of Plums, but it is really the only way it can be secured. Many years ago the crop of a Plum orchard under my charge, numbering over a hundred large trees, was saved by this process, while all other Plums in the district, where the jarring of the trees was not resorted to, were completely des- troyed. This plan was recommended nearly half a century ago, and no other practicable method has been presented until the recent use of London Purple or Paris Green, applied as already described. The Phylloxera, which has been so des- tructive to the Grape vine in Europe, is, fortu- nately, mostly localized with us thus far, and its ravages have been far from alarming, though many feel apprehensive of the future. Its depredations, which are of a deadly nature, are confined chiefly to the roots, and thus far no certain means for its destruction have been discovered. The Phylloxera has, in a few places, been found quite destructive to 206 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS INS the foreign vine grown under glass, especially in parts of Rhode Island, making it necessary, in some cases, to renew both the vines and the borders. Colorado Bug, or Potato Beetle, so destructive some years ago, has now been well-nigh driven off by the persistent use of Paris Green by farmers and gardeners. Insertion. The manner in which one part is inserted into, or adheres to, or originates from another ; as the leaf on the branch, the branch on the stem, etc. Inula. A word of doubtful origin, but said to be a corruption of Helenium. Nat. Ord. Com- posites. A genus of coarse-growing annuals and her- baceous perennials, not worth growing as flowering plants. I. Helenium is the Elecam- pane, common in the roadsides throughout the States. Involucre. A ring or rings of bracts sur- rounding several flowers, such as the whorled bracts at the base of an umbel, a head, or a single flower. Involute. Rolled inward ; when edges are rolled inward on each side. Iochro'ma. From ion, violet, and chroma, color ; color of the flower. Nat. Ord. Solanacece. A genus of green-house trees or shrubs, natives of western tropical America. It con- tains about fifteen species, bearing blue, violet, white, yellowish, or scarlet flowers. The fruit is succulent, two-celled, and many seeded, inclosed in a bladdery calyx. J. lan- ceolata and I. tubulosa have very showy, rich, deep purplish-blue flowers, and they would doubtless prove hardy in the Southern States. Ionopsi'dium. From ionopsis, violet-faced, and eidos, resemblance ; alluding to the resem- blance to some of the tufted Violets. Nat. Ord. Cruciferce. A small genus of hardy annuals, natives of Portugal and Algeria. I. acaule, the only cultivated species, makes a beautiful little plant for rockeries or shaded situations ; its flowers are of a clear lilac, and the foliage of a delicate green. It is increased by seeds and also by runners, which root freely in the damp soil. Introduced 1845. Iono'psis. From ion, violet, and opsis, like. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece,. A small genus of free-flowering, low-grow- ing, beautiful little Orchids. They are difficult to manage, and are, therefore, seldom seen in collections. Ipecacua'nha. The root of Cephwlis Ipecacu- anha. A Brazilian plant, the cultivation of which has been introduced into India. The roots afford the important emetic, and the only known specific for dysentery. Ipomoe'a. Morning Glory. From ips, bind- weed, and homoios, similar; alluding to the twining habit of the plants. Nat. Ord. Con- volvulacem. A very extensive genus of twining plants, consisting of hardy and tender annuals, hardy tuberous-rooted perennials, and green-house perennials. They are remarkable for their showy flowers of white, pink, blue and purple colors. I. purpurea, with its varieties, is the common Morning Glory of the garden. It is a native of South America, but has escaped IPS from cultivation and become thoroughly nat- uralized. /. pandurata, Man-of-the-Earth, a native species, having very large tuberous roots, when well established will cover a very large space, and produce an immense number of very large, pure white flowers. They re- main open much longer than the annual varieties. The tuberous-rooted species are increased by division, by cuttings, or from • seeds. The beautiful Moon Flower, Ipomcza ( Colony ction) grandiflora, known also in com- merce as I. noctiphiton, etc., is a tropical per- ennial species, with immense pure white, sweet-scented flowers, which, contrary to the habits of this splendid family, open at night instead of the morning. Being a free bloomer, the effect, especially, on a moon- light night, is charming, particularly when it is growing on a tree. This species requires protection during winter, and is increased by cuttings or seeds. I. Mexicana and I. Bona Nox, natives of Florida and New Mexico, etc., are also white-flowered, night- blooming species, but neither of them is so large or floriferous as the foregoing. J. Learii, the blue Dawn flower, a tender perennial species, is perhaps the most beautiful and useful of all the Ipomoeas. It is useful in the open air for rapidly covering an outbuilding, a wall, or a trellis, and will flower abundantly from midsummer till fall. In the green-house it will bloom the whole year, but it is well to cut it in rather severely in September to keep it within bounds. The flowers, which are large, and of that pure sky-blue so rare among flowers, are produced in the greatest profu- sion. It is propagated by cuttings. We have tried many times to raise it from im- ported seed, but have never found it to come true. I. leptophylla is a hardy perennial species of half-climbing habit, with an im- mense tuberous root, and is a desirable plant. It is found from Nebraska to New Mexico, and is propagated by division and from seed. I. coccinea, or Star Ipomoea, a native of the West Indies, bears a profusion of scarlet flowers, and is a very desirable plant. Nearly- all the Ipomoeas are popular plants, especi- ally with those who have an eye for grace and beauty combined. Ipomo'psis. Standing Cypress. From ipo, to strike forcibly, and opsis, sight; alluding to the dazzling color of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Polemoniacece. I. elegans and I. picta are the only species. They are beautiful hardy biennials, natives of South Carolina and southward. They grow from four to six feet high, and are covered nearly their whole length with brilliant scar- let flowers. Seed should be sown in early summer, in a dry, sandy soil, where the water will not stand in winter ; they will be greatly benefited with a slight mulching of leaves, not as a protection against cold, but against wet and sudden changes. This genus is now included under Gilia, by some authorities. I'psea. Derivation of name unknown. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. This genus of Orchids is represented by I. speciosa, a beautiful and rare species from Ceylon. The flowers are clear yellow with a carmine stripe on the lip. It requires the same treatment as the Bletia, which it re- sembles in habit ; introduced in 1840. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 207 IRE Iresi'ne. From eiros, wool; referring to the wooly aspect of the branches of some of the species. Nat. Ord. AmaranthaceeB. A genus of erect herbs or sub-shrubs, na- tives of Australia and tropical and sub-tropi- cal America, a single species reaching as far north as Ohio. Those best known in cultiva- tion are very ornamental plants, and are in- dispensable in all bedding-out arrangements on account of their beautifully-colored foliage. The genus is very closely allied to Achyran- thea. Iria'rtea. Named in honor of Juan Iriarte, a Spanish botanist. Nat. Ord. Palmacecz. A small genus of ornamental, tall-growing palms, inhabiting tropical America. Natur- ally, they sometimes produce aerial l'oots, which raise the trees from the ground as if on stilts. They require the same treatment as other stove-palms. Iriarte'lla setigera. A small South American palm formerly included in Iriartea. It rarely grows more than fifteen feet high, and has a perfectly straight cylindrical trunk, scarcely more than an inch thick. The In- dians on the Amazon and Rio Negro, where this palm grows, in the underwood of the forests, use its slender stems for making their blow-pipes, the weapon commonly em- ployed by them in the pursuit of game, and through which they blow small poisoned arrows with unerring accuracy, and to a con- siderable distance. These blow-pipes are usually from eight to twelve feet long, and have a bore of about a quarter of an inch in diameter. Irida'ceae (The Iris Family). A natural order of herbs with corms, rhizomes, or fibrous roots, and mostly with equitant leaves, and flowers in sheaths. They are found in warm and temperate regions, and abound at the Cape of Good Hope. There are about fifty genera and upward of five hundred species. Iris, Gladiolus, Crocus, and Ixia are examples. I'ris. Fleur-de-Luce, or Flower-de-Luce. Iris, the rainbow deified ; anciently applied to this genus on account of the bright and varied colors of the blossoms. Nat. Ord. Iridacece. There are two large and distinct sections into which the Iris is usually divided, one with creeping fleshy root-stocks or rhizomes, including such species as I. Germaniea, I. Flor- entina, I. flavescens, I. squalens, etc., and num- berless varieties having large and handsome flowers, and as they are the easiest to cul- tivate, they are most largely grown, the other section includes the bulbous kinds or Xiphions, principally represented in cultivation by what are known as the English and Spanish Iris. Both are of Spanish origin, and vary chiefly in the size of the bulbs and flowers, and in the more curious combination of colors as exhibited in the flowers of the former. They should be taken up and replanted every second or third year, as the new bulbs, which are formed every season, are always directly under the old bulb ; and thus in the course of a few years the bulbs descend so low as to be out of the reach of the air, and consequently incapable of vegetation. Thus it will be generally found that persons in the habit of growing Irises, are always complaining of ISM losing their plants, while the real fault rests with themselves for not taking up their bulbs at the proper time. The bulbous and tuber- ous-rooted Irises succeed in any light and dry soil. The splendid Chalcedonian Iris is one of the tuberous-rooted kinds ; and it not only requires a dry soil during winter, but to be allowed plenty of pure air during the whole period of its growth, or it will be very apt to damp off. Among the species of late intro- duction is J. Kcempferii (Syn. kevigata), from Japan. The plants are perfectly hardy, and are very free-flowering. The flowers are double and single, the colors pure white, purple, maroon, blue, and many with the various colors marbled with white. They grow readily in almost any situation, in full exposure to sun, or in partial shade. They are increased by division, or may be grown readily from seed, which if sown in the open border, will make plants that will flower the second year. These are really grand plants. Scarcely any plants in the flower-garden can compare with them for gorgeous beauty, and they command a prominent place in all gardens. That they do not flower until near midsummer, when the season of the common Iris is past, is an additional recommendation to most lovers of plants. Irish Heath. Dabozcia polifolia. Iron Tree. The common name of Parrotia Persica. Iron-weed. The popular name of Vernonia Noveboracensis, a common plant in moist grounds and along fence rows, growing from two to seven feet high, and bearing bright purple flowers. Iron-wood. The popular name of two trees that furnish a hard, useful timber, the one Ostrya, which is also known as Hop Horn- beam, and the other Carpinus, the common Hornbeam, or Iron-wood. Both are common in most of the States. Iron-wood of Morocco. ylon. I'satis. A genus of CrucifercB, consisting of erect annual or biennial plants, natives of southern Europe and western Asia, one being found in China. They have undivided leaves, with a bluish bloom, and generally yellow flowers, borne in long, loose, erect, terminal panicles. I. tinctoria, the Dyer's wood, is the only species of importance, being cultivated, especially in the north of China, for the blue dye, similar to indigo, obtained from it. Isme'ne. Peruvian Daffodil. After Ismene, the daughter of (Edipus and Jocasta. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. A small genus of very handsome bulbs from Peru, which require to be kept perfectly dry during winter, and free from frost. Planted out in spring as soon as the ground is warm and dry, they come into flower in June and July. I. calathina, with pure white, very fra- grant flowers, and I. amancas, yellow, are ex- cellent for this purpose. As the flowers last well, they are also valuable for winter forcing, and can be brought into bloom in six weeks from the time of planting, and may be had in succession all winter. The flowers are pro- duced in an umbel on a spathe about two feet high . This genus is included by some botanists See Argania siderox- 208 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS ISO under Hymenocallis, and by others under Pan- cratium. They are propagated by offsets, and were introduced in 1800. Iso'lepis. From isos, equal, and lepis, a scale ; alluding to the regularity of the scales. Nat. Ord. Cyperaceoz. I. gracilis is a very pretty, low-growing, fine, rush-like grass, cultivated for a basket plant, a purpose for which it is admirably adapted. Propagated by division. Syn. Scirpus riparius. Isolo'ma. From isos, equal, and loma, a bor- der; lobes of corolla equal. Nat. Ord. Ges- neracece. A genus comprising about sixty species of ornamental green-house and stove plants, often confused with Achimenes and Gesnera, natives of Mexico, Bolivia, Peru, etc. Flowers often scarlet, golden, or spotted ; leaves oppo- site, often slightly villous. Culture similar to Gesnera or Tydea, which see. Isolo'ma (of J. Smith). A name given to a genus of Ferns now included under Lindsoza. Isona'ndra. Gutta Percha Tree. From isos, equal, and ander, the male organ, or stamen ; referring to an equal number of fertile and barren stamens. Nat. Ord. Sapotacew. I. gutta, the species which yields Gutta Percha, is a large forest-tree, growing sixty to seventy feet high, with a trunk two or three feet in diameter. It is a native of Borneo, Ceylon and Malaya, where there are immense forests of this and kindred species. They are quite ornamental trees, but, from their size, only valuable for the Gutta Percha they pro- duce. Isopy'rum. From isos, equal, and pyros, wheat. The Greeks gave this name to a plant resem- bling Nigella, the seeds of which have the same taste. Nat. Ord. RanunculacecB. A genus of dwarf, slender, hardy perennial herbs, natives of Europe and temperate Asia. I. thalictroides is a very graceful border plant, with feathery, white flowers, and foliage re- sembling a Maiden-hair Fern. It is of easy cultivation, and is increased by seeds or divis- ion of the roots. Iso'toma. From isos, equal, and toma, a sec- tion; the flowers are equal. Nat. Ord. Lobel- iacem. A small genus of annuals and herbaceous perennials, formerly included in the genus Lobelia. I. petrma is a very showy half-hardy annual, with cream-colored flowers. I. longi- Jlora, a native of the West Indies, is a most venomous plant, producing dangerous cathar- tic symptoms. It proves fatal to horses that eat it. Isotro'pis. From isos, equal, and tropos, turned; referring probably to the distinctly formed veins in the flowers. Nat. Ord. Leguminoso3. I. striata, from Swan River, constitutes this genus. It is a beautiful little green-house shrub, with a soft and slightly downy stem. The flowers are much like those of the Choro- zema, clear orange yellow, with rich, deep crimson, forked veins. It was introduced in 1838, and is propagated by cuttings of the young wood. Italian Rye Grass. Lolium Italicw.n. I'tea. The Greek name for the Willow, applied IXO to this genus on account of its rapid growth in damp soil. Nat. Ord. Saxifragacem. I. Virginica, the only cultivated species, is a dwarf shrub resembling a willow in habit and foliage ; flowers white, produced in great profusion towards the end of summer. In- digenous in wet places, from New Jersey southward, near the coast. Ivory. Vegetable. The hard albumen of the nuts of Phytelephas macrocarpa. Ivy. See Hedera helix. American. Ampelopsis quinquefolia. German or Parlor. A garden name for Sen- ecio Mikanioides. Ground. Nepeta Glechoma. Japan, or Boston. See Ampelopsis tricuspi- data (Syn. A. Veitchii). Kenilworth, or Coliseum. Linaria cymba- laria. Mexican. Coboea scandens. Poison. Rhus toxicodendron. I'xia. From ixia, bird-lime; in reference to the clammy juice. Nat. Ord. Iridacece. A genus of beautiful Cape bulbs, with nar- row ensate leaves, and slender, simple, or slightly branched stems, bearing spikes of large showy flowers, various in color, and ex- ceedingly attractive when fully expanded by sunshine. These flowers have a salver- shaped perianth, with a slender tube, and six-parted, spreading, equal limb, three sta- mens inserted in the throat, with filiform fil- aments and versatile anthers, and a three- celled ovary with numerous ovules, termi- nating in a filiform style, and three narrow linear con-duplicate recurved stigmas. I. viridiflora, which has large sea-green flowers with black markings at the base of the seg- ments, is a very singular-looking, as well as very beautiful plant. There are many species and some varieties, and the greater part of them are worthy of cultivation. They are half hardy, but with us should be grown in pots in the green-house; about mid-winter they will begin to show their handsome flow- ers freely. When done flowering they should be dried off till September or October, which is the proper time to start them again. They grow well in a light loam with the addition of leaf mould and sand, and are propagated by offsets. First introduced in 1757. Ixia'nthes retzioides. A rare and beautiful plant of the Nat. Ord. Scrophulariacete, native of western South Africa. It is an erect shrub, with lanceolate leaves, densely crowded into ternary whorls. The flowers are not unlike those of a Pentstemon, but bright yellow. It grows naturally almost in the water, and in drier places becomes stunted and depauper- ated. Introduced in 1882. Ixioli'rion. From ixia, and leirion, a lily ; lit- erally, Ixia-like Lily. Nat. Ord. Amarylli- dacece. A small genus of rare and beautiful little hardy bulbs from Asia Minor. They have simple erect stems, with terminal clusters or racemes of sky-blue flowers, and are propa- gated by seeds or offsets. Introduced in 1844. Ixo'ra. Named after Iswara, a Malabar deity, to whom the flowers of some of the species are offered. Nat. Ord. Rubiacece. AND GENEKAL HORTICULTURE. 209 JAB A genus of Indian and tropical African shrubs, with corymbs of handsome flowers of a scarlet, pink, or white color, and frequently having an agreeable fragrance. The history of Ixora coccinea, the best known species, is rather curious. It is a native of China and some of the East India Islands, where it is worshipped as a sacred plant, and where it is said to form a small tree about six feet high, rising with a single stem, and having its head formed entirely of clusters of bright scarlet and yellow flowers, whence it has received the name of Flamma Sylvarum, or the Tree of Fire. This plant was first introduced in 1690; but it was soon lost and its existence was even doubted until it was re-introduced about a hundred years afterward by the celebrated Dr. Fothergill. The Ixoras are really mag- nificent plants, and should be grown in a warm temperature. They are propagated from cuttings, and should be grown in a sandy loam and leaf mould. When repotted, which should be done immediately after flowering, the plants will be benefited by being plunged into a moderate bottom heat, which induces JAP them to root freely, and to form the growth quickly and with vigor, thus enabling them to become properly ripened before winter. In the spring, when the flower heads begin to appear, a liberal regimen should be adopted, and liquid manure occasionally applied. At this time, and, indeed, throughout the sum- mer, the foliage should be frequently syr- inged, in order to keep it clear of insects, and to preserve its rich green and glossiness. As soon as the flowers are expanded, and onward till the growth is complete, the plants should be shaded from powerful light, and through the summer a moderately moist atmosphere of about 75° should be kept about them. In winter the ordinary attention required by hot- house plants will suffice. The taste for hard- wooded plants is on the increase. Among the best is the Ixora, which should be more gen- erally grown ; over twenty species varying in color, from pure white to deep orange-scarlet, are now in cultivation. I. coccinea superba, I. eminens, I. illustris, I. decora, I. ornata, I. Williamsii and others, are free flowering and easily grown species. J. Jaboro'sa. From Jaborose, the Arabic for the Mandrake, an allied plant. Nat. Ord. So- lanacece. A small genus of South American herbaceous perennials. The flowers are funnel-shaped, white or green. None of the species has any special attractions. Jack-in-the-Pulpit. See Arismma. Jaca, or Jack-Tree. The native name of Arto- carpus integrifolia, the Bread Fruit of the East Indies. Jacara'nda. Its Brazilian name. Nat. Ord. Bignoniac£ce. A genus of very handsome, lofty evergreen trees, with the elegant habit of the fine- leaved Acacias. They have bluish flowers in terminal panicles, but their size prevents their cultivation in the green-house. Jacobee'a. A synonym of Senecio. Jacobsean Lily. See Sprekelia. Jacobi'nia. A genus of Acanthacew, proposed to include Cyrtanthera, Pachystachys and Serico- gr aphis. Jacob's Ladder. See Polemonium. Jacquemo'ntia. Named after Victor Jacque- mont, a traveler in the East Indies. Nat. Ord. Convolvulacece. A small genus of green-house evergreen twiners, intermediate between Ipomcea and Convolvulus. They are natives of Mexico and the East Indies, and are propagated by cut- tings. Introduced in 1808. Jacqui'nia. Named in honor of N. J. de Jacquin, once Professor of Botany at Leyden. A genus of handsome evergreen bushes of the Nat. -Ord. Convolvulacece, peculiar to America, where they range from Florida to Brazil, and are usually found near the coast. J. armillaris is known by the West Indian settlers as Brace- let Wood ; the shiny brown and yellow seeds being made into bracelets. Introduced to cultivation in 1768. Jalap. See Exogonium. Jamaica Dogwood. See Piscidia. Jamaica Mignonette. (Henna Plant.) See Lawsonia. Jamaica Pepper. A name given to Allspice, Pimento vulgaris, which see. Jame'sia. Named after Dr. Edkm James, who first discovered the plant. Nat. Ord. Saxir fragacece. J. Americana, the only species, is a medium- sized hardy shrub, with opposite serrated leaves and white flowers, like a Deutzia, blooming nearly all summer. It is a native of Mexico and the Rocky Mountains, and is in- creased by seeds or cuttings of the ripened wood. Introduced in 1865. Jamestown Weed. See Datura. Janipha. See Manihot. Japan Allspice. See Chimonanthus. Japan Cedar. See Crytomeria. Japan Clover. See Lespedeza. Japan Cypress. See Retinospora. Japanese Toad Lily. See Tricyrtis. Japan or Climbing Fern. See Lygodiwm. Japan Lacquer Tree. Rhus vernicifera. Japan or Boston Ivy. See Ampelopsis ( Veitchii) tricuspidata. Japan Maple. Acer Japonicum. Japan Medlar, or Japan Persimmon. See Diospyros. Japan Pepper. See Xanthoxylum. Japan Plum. See Eryobotrya. Japan Quince. See Cydonia. 210 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS JAP Japan Varnish Tree. Ailantus glandulosus. Japan Yew. See Podocarpus. Jasio'ne. An ancient name used by Theophras- tus. Nat. Ord. CampanulacecB. A genus of hardy herbaceous perennials and annuals, mostly natives of Europe and North Africa. All of the species have very pretty blue flowers, though not of sufficient importance to warrant their introduction in the garden. J. montana is a pretty annual, com- mon in the healthy and moorland districts of Great Britain. It is commonly known as Sheep's Scabious, from its resemblance to the Scabious, and from its abundance in sheep- walks. Jasmine or Jessamine. See Jasminum. Cape. See Gardenia florida. Carolina. Gelsemium nitidum. Jasmineee. A tribe of the Nat. Ord. Oleacece. Jasmi'num. Jasmine. From Ysmym, the Ara- bic name. Nat. Ord. Oleacece. The delicacy and fragrance of the flowers of the Jasmine have often afforded metaphor and theme to the poet. Among the species are found equally desirable subjects for deco- rating the hot-house, the green-house, arbors, or other objects in the open air, and combin- ing in every instance freedom and elegance in the general habit of the plants, with all that is desirable in floral embellishments. The hot-house and green-house species should be frequently fumigated through the summer, as they are extremely liable to attacks from aphis and other insects. The hardy kinds grow freely in almost any situation, and only require to be kept trained in the desired form, without, however, reducing them to a rigidly formal outline, to make them most ornamental objects in almost any position. Most of the species are from the East Indies. J. grandiflorum is one of our best known winter-flowering plants, and is largely used for cut flowers. It is propagated by cuttings, which root freely, and when well grown form good plants the first season. Introduced in 1629. Ja'tropha. Fr6m iatros, physician, and trophe, food; referring to its medicinal qualities. Nat. Ord. Euphorbiacem. A widely-distributed genus of herbs and evergreen shrubs, principally of economic value, found chiefly in South America. None of the species are valuable as flowering or ornamental plants, though J. podograria is sometimes grown for its curious gouty stems, J. urens, common on the coast from Virginia, southwards, from its stinging properties, is generally known by its popular names, Tread- Softly, and Spurge-Nettle. Jefferso'nia. Twin-leaf. Named in honor of Thomas Jefferson. Nat. Ord. Berberidacece. J. diphylla, the only species, is a pretty little plant, common in woods from New York to Wisconsin and southward. It is sometimes called Rheumatism Root, from its supposed medicinal properties. Jerusalem Artichoke. See Helianthus. Jerusalem Cherry. See Solanum capsicastrum. Jerusalem Sage. See Phlomis. Jerusalem Thorn. See Parkinsonia. Jessamine. A popular corruption of Jasmine. JUD Jewel Weed. See Impatiens. Jimson Weed. See Datura. Job's Tears. See Coix lachryma. Joe-Pye Weed. Trumpet Weed. Popular names of Eupatorium purpureum. Johnson Grass. Sorghum halepense. The name Johnson Grass, which is the one most gener- ally adopted in this country, originated from William Johnson of Alabama, who introduced the grass into that state from South Carolina about 1840. Its chief value is for hay in regions where other grasses fail on account of drought. If cut early, the hay is of good quality, and several cuttings may be made in a season. The late Mr. Howard, of Atlanta, Ga., a careful and practical farmer and investigator, said of it, after an experience of forty years, that this grass was preferable to all others that could be grown in the South. Its analysis shows it to be more nutritious than even sweet corn fodder. Its seeds are as large as those of broom corn, and its leaves are long and tender. The stem reaches a height of six feet. Its perennial growth, and the firm hold it takes of the soil, in which it spreads with great rapidity, give it a high value for a fodder grass in the South. John's, St., Bread. Ceratonia siliqua. John's, St., Wort. The genus Hypericum. Jointed Charlock. A name frequently given to the Wild Badish, Raphanus raphanistrum. Joint Grass. A common name of one of our native grasses, Paspalum distichum. Joint Weed. A popular name for Polygonum articulatum. Jo'nesia. Named after Sir. W. Jones, Nat. Ord. Legumino8(B. A small genus of shrubs or low-growing trees inhabiting the East Indies. They have bright glossy leaves, about a foot long, made up of three to six pairs of leaflets. The flow- ers are bright scarlet, in terminal round clus- ters, resembling the Ixora. Some of the Jap- anese species have clusters six to eight inches across, and succeed best when grown in heat. They are propagated by cuttings, and were introduced in 1820. Syn. Saraca. Jonquil. See Narcissus. Joseph's Coat. See Amaranthus tricolor. Jubaea. After Juba, ancient King of Numidia. Nat. Ord. Palmacem. J. spectabilis, the only species, is the Co- quito Palm of Chili. It has a tall, straight trunk, bearing a crown of large pinnate leaves, and branching spikes of dark yellow, distinct male and female flowers, inclosed in a double spathe. In Chili, a sweet syrup, or Palm-honey, is prepared by boiling the sap of this tree to the consistency of molasses, and it forms a considerable article of trade, being as much esteemed for domestic use as sugar. The sap is obtained by felling the trees and cutting off the crown of leaves, when it im- mediately begins to flow, and continues for several months, until the tree is exhausted, provided a thin slice is shaved off the top every morning. Each tree yields about ninety gallons. The nuts, trunks, and leaves are used for various economic purposes. Young plants are obtained from seeds, and require to be grown in a plant-stove. Judas Tree. See Cercis. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 211 JUG Juglanda'ceae. A natural order of trees with alternate, pinnate, stipulate leaves and uni- sexual flowers. They are chiefly natives of North America and the Indies. Juglans regia is the English Walnut or Madeira Nut of the fruit stores. Carya alba is the American Hickory Nut. Juglans nigra is the Black Walnut. There are five genera and about thirty species, all valuable timber trees, much prized by cabinet makers. Juglans and Carya are examples of the order. Ju'glans. Walnut. From Jovis, the heathen god, and glans, a nut. Nat. Ord. Juglan- dacem. A well-known genus of hardy deciduous trees. J. regia, the common English Walnut or Madeira-nut tree, is a native of Persia, and was introduced into English gardens in 1562. This species makes a beautiful tree for the lawn as far north as New York, but it rarely ripens fruit. There are several specimens of this tree on the grounds of Mr. Manice, Queens, Long Island, having favorable situa- tions, and they seldom fail of ripening a fair crop of nuts. There is also a long avenue of old trees of this Walnut in Westchester County, N.Y., and the crop seldom fails. J. cinerea is our common Butter-nut, and J. nigra the well-known Black Walnut. Jujube. See Zizyphus Jujube. Ju'ncus. Rush. Bog-Rush. LinneBus derived the name from jungo, to join ; in allusion to the first ropes having been made from rushes. Nat. Ord. Juncaceaz. The Rush is a very extensive, and almost universally distributed genus of marshy plants. Some of the species are very troublesome to the farmer, when once started in moist meadows. The destruction of the grass is certain, unless a constant warfare is kept up. Some of the species, in their native countries, are of the greatest value. In Holland, the Rush is planted with great care on their sea embankments, to prevent, by its roots, the action of the tides from washing away the earth. When these Rushes have attained their full height, which is in summer, they are cut down, tied into bunches, dried, and taken into market, where they are wrought into baskets and other useful articles. In Japan the manufacture of Rush matting is carried to a great extent. For this purpose, J. conglomeratus, or hard Rush , is used ; and for their best floor-mats, J. effusis, or soft Rush, is employed. These mats, which are at once carpets and the only beds used by the Japanese, are soft, elastic, and often three or four inches thick. They are very closely plaited, and the interstices afterward filled with rice paper. Some law appears to regu- late the size of these mats, for, according to Thunberg, they are of precisely the same dimensions throughout all parts of the king- dom, with the exception of those in the imperial palace of Jeddo. The regulation size is six feet by three, with a narrow blue or black border. They make a lighter sort of matting of the same material, which is used as window blinds, and to protect the trans- parent paper which forms a substitute for glass. Of some harder species they even make shoes for their horses, which come up to the pastern joint, and cover the hoof. Bags made of Rushes are extensively used in JUT the Eastern countries. Sugar sent from the Mauritius is always in bags made of Rushes, which are very strong and durable. A very handsome plant of the Bulrush family has been lately introduced from Japan, with foliage as strikingly variegated as Eulalia Japonica zebrina. Like that plant, the varie- gation runs horizontally around the hollow leaves. The bands of bright yellow are about two inches apart, delicately shaded into the green, and the whole appearance of the plant is one of unique beauty. It may prove to be hardy. It was introduced here from Japan by Thomas Hogg, but sent to England for distri- bution. See Scirpus. June Berry. See Amelanchier. Juniper. See Juniperus. Irish. Juniperus communis, var. hybernica. Swedish. Juniperus communis, var. suecica. Juni'perus. Juniper. From the Celtic Juni- perus, rough. Nat Ord. Coniferw. An extensive genus of evergreen trees and shrubs, the more conspicuous of which are J. communis, the common Juniper, indigenous in dry, rocky places in New Jersey and north- ward. The berries of this species are much used in the manufacture of gin. J. Virginiana, the well-known Red Cedar, is found in all parts of the country, but more particularly from Virginia southward. J. Bermudiana, Bermuda Cedar, is used for lead pencils as well as the Red Cedar, the latter being used for the best. Jupiter's Beard. See Anthyllis. Jurinea. Derivation not explained. Nat. Ord. Compositor. A genus of about forty species of hardy herbaceous perennials, natives of southern Europe and western and central Asia. Though occasionally seen in cultivation, none of the species is of much horticultural value. They are increased by seeds or by division of the roots in spring. Jussiae'a. Named in honor of the celebrated family of Jussieu. An extensive genus of Onagracece, consisting of herbs, or, more rarely, shrubs, growing in marshes or ponds throughout the tropics, a few reaching to sub-tropical regions. They have white, or yehow flowers, and alternate, very frequently, membraneous and entire leaves. Some of the species are astringent, as J. villosa, from India, and J. Caparossa, and J. villosa, from Brazil, where, also, occurs, J. pilosa, which yields a yellow dye. J. decurrens, reaches north as far as Virginia. Justi'cia. Named after J. Justice a celebrated Scotch horticulturist. Nat. Ord. Acanthacem. An extensive genus of tender annuals and biennials, green-house herbaceous perennials, and green-house shrubs. They are natives of the East Indies, with a few in South America and the West Indies. Many of the species are mere weeds. Some of the green- house shrubs are ornamental and desirable, their long spikes of red and purple flowers being very showy. The beautiful bright yellow species known best as J. calotricha, and J.flavicoma, are now placed under Schaueria, which see. They are easy of cultivation, and are propagated by cuttings. Jute. The fibre of Chorchorus capsularis and C. olitorius. 212 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS K KAD Kadsu'ra. The Japanese name. Nat. Ord. Magnoliacece. A small genus of half-hardy evergreen trail- ing plants, with white or yellow flowers. Na- tives of Japan. Some of the species are under cultivation, but are not of special interest. Kcempfe'ria. Named after Kcempfer, a German naturalist. Nat. Ord. Zingiberacece. A genus of East Indian herbaceous peren- nials, with singular tubular-shaped flowers, that appear before the leaves, from very short stems. K. Gilbertii has tufted, oblong-lance- olate, dark green leaves, slightly undulated, and bordered by a broad and very conspicuous band of white. A very attractive and desira- ble variegated plant, introduced from Moul- mein in 1882. The roots of some of the spe- cies have an aromatic fragrance, and are used medicinally and for perfumes. Kaffir Bean Tree. See Schotia. Kaffir Lily. See SchizostUis. Kaki. The Japanese Persimmon. See Diospy- ros. Kale. See Borecole. Kala'nchoe. The Chinese name of one of the species. Nat. Ord. Crassulacece. A very pretty genus of succulent plants, natives of tropical Africa, but also found in tropical Asia, at the Cape, and in Brazil. They do well in a light sandy loam, and produce rather large flowers, usually in many-flowered paniculate cymes, the color being yellow, purple, or scarlet. The leaves are fleshy, opposite, sessile or petiolate, entire, crenate, or pinnatifid. They are very interesting plants, and worthy of a place in the green- house. K. acutifolia has divided, bronzy leaves, and altogether is a beautiful plant, and is propagated readily from cuttings placed in sand. First introduced in 1781. K. carnea, a recent introduction from south Africa, with delicate pink flowers, blooming during the winter months, is of easy culture, is very floriferous, and succeeds well in ordinary green-house temperature. The flowers are borne in large clusters, are of a wax-like con- sistency, and last a long time in perfection. Ka'lmia. Named after Peter Kalm, a Swedish botanist. Nat. Ord. Ericaceae. A genus of evergreen shrubs, growing from four to ten feet high, common from Maine to Georgia, usually found on mountain sides or dry waste places, but sometimes also along brook sides. K. latifolia, Calico Bush, is the common Laurel of the United States, and is certainly one of the most beautiful of ever- greens, whether we regard the deep verdure of its foliage or the abundance of its exquis- itely elegant, delicate pink, rose, or nearly white flowers, produced from May to July. It is generally supposed that this shrub cannot be transplanted from the woods with any cer- tainty of success, but this is a mistake. Take the precaution to prepare a bed or border, with a soil as nearly like the one you find them in as possible, and which is usually KEN composed, in a great measure, of leaf-mould ; take up plants of a small size, being careful not to cut the roots, and not to let them get dry, and get them into the border as soon as pos- sible after taking them up; then cut well back, and very few will fail to make elegant plants, which will flower freely the second year. After one removal they may be taken up and shifted as often as desirable, with as little difficulty or danger as any of our border shrubs. K. angustifolia, Sheep Laurel, or Lambkill, is a dwarf-growing, narrow-leaved species, with smaller flowers, but of a bright crimson color. The leaves are generally sup- posed to be poisonous to sheep and lambs ; hence the two common names. Kalosa'nthes. A synonym of Rochea, which see. Kansas Gay Feather. See Liatrispycnostachya. Kara'tas. A genus of Bromeliacem, comprising about a dozen species of herbaceous peren- nials, natives of the West Indies, tropical South America, and Brazil. They are gener- ally rather coarse, long-leaved, spinous plants., though K. Innocentii and K. spectabilis are very showy species. They are of easy cul- ture. Syns. Niduiarium, Bromelia, etc. Katherine's, St., Flower. Nigella Damascena. Kaulfu'ssia. In honor of Frederic Kaulfuss, M.D., Professor of Botany at Halle. Nat. Ord. Composites. A small genus of beautiful little hardy an- nuals from the Cape of Good Hope. The flowers are of various colors, blue, rose, white and violet, somewhat resembling an Aster. This genus is now called Charieis, K. ameU loides being known as C. heterophylla; the name going by priority to the following genus of Ferns. Kaulfu'ssia. A very distinct genus of Ferns, found in India and Java, with thick rhizomes and coarse terminal fronds. The fronds of K. cesculifolia, the only described species, are like a Horse-chestnut leaf, and the under surface is dotted over with copious stomata- like pores. Closely allied to Marattia. Kauri, or Kawrie Pine. See Damarra Australia. Keel. When the mid-rib of a leaf or petal is sharp and elevated externally it is called a keel. Keferste'nia. A synonym of Zygopetalum. Kenilworth Ivy. See Linaria. Kenne'dya. Named in honor of Mr. Kermedy, of the firm of Lee and Kennedy, celebrated English nurserymen. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A genus of free-flowering, evergreen green- house climbers, remarkable for their beautiful racemes of pea-shaped flowers, which are of various colors, scarlet, blue, purple, pink and variegated. They are highly ornamental, and useful in the green-house for cut flowers ; and are increased readily by cuttings of short side shoots, well hardened. Introduced in 1824 from New Holland. KAULFUSSIA. KOHL RABI (EARLY WHITE VIENNA). JACOByEA (DOUBLE). JONQUILS (DOUBLE). 31 z JASMINUM HIRSUTUM. KENTIA CANTKRHURYANA. LAUEB6TBCEM1A. 1ACHEMALIA PEKDTJLA. »'i AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 213 KEN Ke'ntia. In honor of Lieut.-Colonel Kent. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. A small genus of Palms, separated from Areca, chiefly on account of the shape and substance of the seed ; in all other respects they are identical. K. sapida is the most southern known Palm, being found in New Zealand, two or three degrees further south than any representative of the order in either hemisphere. The natives use the young flower spikes as an article of food. K. (Syn. Hedyscepe) Canterburyana is an exceedingly ornamental plant, useful for decorative pur- poses. It is called in its native country the " Umbrella Palm." A number of the species are now under cultivation. Young plants are obtained from seed. Kentio'psis. Prom Kentia, and opsis, a resem- blance ; on account of its likeness to Kentia. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. A genus of very pretty Palms, closely allied to Kentia. The leaves of K. divaricata when young are of a fine red color. Natives of New Caledonia. Introduced in 1876. Kentucky Blue Grass. See Poapratensis. Kentucky Coffee Tree. See Gymnocladits. Ke'rria Japonica. An old favorite in the gar- den, with both single and double flowers, to which has lately been added a very pretty variety with variegated leaves. These have been transferred to the genus Corchorus, which see. Kidney Bean. See Phaseolus vulgaris. Kidney Vetch. See Anthyllis. King Plant. Ancectochilus setaceus. Kinnikinnik. Common name of Cornus sericea. Kle'inia. Named by Linnseus in honor of James Henry Klein, a German botanist. Nat. Ord. Compositce. A small genus of curious succulent plants from Africa. Some are of upright habit, and others trailing or creeping. A few have been introduced into the green-house, and are grown for basket plants. K. articulata, or Candle Plant, is very curious and easily grown ; propagated by cuttings. Syn. Senecio. Kni'ghtia. Named after Thos. A. Knight, a celebrated English pomologist. Nat. Ord. Proteacece. A genus comprising three species of trees, or shrubs, one of which is from New Zealand, and the two others, from New Caledonia. K. excelsa, the only species yet introduced, is an ornamental evergreen tree, growing in its native country to the height of 100 feet, and having much the habit of a Lombardy Poplar. The wood of this tree is mottled with red and brown, and is largely employed in making furniture. Knight's Spurs. An old name for Larkspur. Knight's Star Lily. See Hippeastrum. Knipho'fia. Named after J. H. Kniphof, Pro- fessor of Medicine at Erfurt, 1704-1763. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. This genus of half-hardy herbaceous plants is usually known as Tritoma, but the name here given is a prior one, and therefore the more correct. See Tritoma. Knot-Berry. Rubus Chamcemorus. Knot-Grass. Polygonum aviculare. ERA Knot-Weed. Centaurea nigra, also the genus, Polygonum. Kno'xia. Named after Robert Knox, who lived many years in Ceylon. Nat. Ord. Rubiacew. A small genus of rather pretty, low-grow- ing green-house evergreens, with small white or pink flowers. Propagated by cuttings ; in- troduced from Bengal in 1828. Kcele'ria. A small genus of grasses inhabiting the higher altitudes of northern Europe. Koelreute'ria. Named after Kcelreuter, once Professor of Natural History at Carlsruhe, the father of hybridizing plants. Nat. Ord. Sapindacece. K. paniculata, the only species, is a decidu- ous shrub or low-growing tree, a native of China. It has pinnate foliage with an odd leaflet. The flowers are yellow, disposed in terminal spreading clusters, and are suc- ceeded by large bladdery capsules, which render the tree conspicuous till late in autumn. This tree is hardy in the vicinity of New York and southward. Kce'niga. Sweet Alyssum. In honor of Charles Kcenig, Superintendent of the Natural History Department of the British Museum. Nat. Ord. Cruciferce. K. maritima is a pretty and well-known hardy annual. K. m. major has flowers nearly as large as Candytuft. Sow the seed in early spring; it usually sows itself, coming up freely where once sown. A. m. plena, a double variety, is valuable for cut flowers. K. m. variegata has variegated leaves, and is a pretty and useful plant. A more recent variety with double flowers has even finer variegation. The last three named are pro- pagated by cuttings, as they do not seed. Kohl-Rabi. Brassica oleracea Caulo-rapa. Kohl-rabi is a very distinct vegetable not very largely cultivated except by Germans. It comes between the Cabbage and Turnip, and is generally used as a substitute for the latter. The upper part of the stem swells into a large fleshy head above ground, re- sembling a Cabbage. Kohl-rabi has several advantages over some other vegetables, and consequently deserves a place in gardens. It is exceedingly hardy, withstanding even severe frosts, and also resists drought much better than the Turnip. The varieties mostly cultivated are the Early Purple and Early White Vienna, both dwarf and useful sorts; they are not good if allowed to get old and large before being used. Ko'psia. Named after Professor Kops, the author of a Botanical Dictionary of reputa- tion. Nat. Ord. Apocynacece. K. fruticosa, the only species, is a native of Pegu, Japan. It is an exceedingly ornamental green-house evergreen shrub, producing flowers similar to the green-house species of Vinca, several times during the season. The color is red and extremely showy. It is in- creased by cuttings ; introduced in 1818. Krame'ria. Named after the two Kramers, German botanists. Nat. Ord. Polygalacem. A small genus of ornamental green-house evergreen shrubs. K. triand/ra is remarkable for its entire, obovate, acuminate leaves, covered on both sides with silky hairs. In Peru an extract, which is a mild astringent, is made from it. An infusion of the roots of one 214 HENDEKSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS KRE of the species is blood-red, and is largely used in adulterating port wine. The species are natives of South America. Kreysi'gia. Named after F. L. Kreysig, a Ger- man botanist. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. K. multiflora, the only species, is a very pretty, half-hardy, herbaceous perennial, hav- ing a roughish, simple stem, and a knotty rhizome. It is of easy culture and is increased by divisions in spring. Introduced from New South Wales in 1823. Kri'gia. Dwarf Dandelion. In honor of Mr. David Kreig, a German botanist. Nat. Ord. Composite. A very pretty little annual, with flowers resembling miniature Dandelions. It is quite common in dry grounds from New York southward. Ku'hnia. Dedicated to Dr. Kuhn, of Pennsyl- vania, who brought the living plant to Lin- naeus. Nat. Ord. Composites. LAC A genus of hardy herbaceous perennials, of but little interest except in botanical collec- tions. K. Eupatorioides is common in dry soils from New Jersey to Wisconsin, and southward. Ku'nthia. Named after C. S. Kunth, a Prussian botanist. Nat Ord. Palmacece. K. Deppeana, a rare palm, the only species, allied to Areca, is a native of New Grenada. It is propagated by seeds, and grows freely with ordinary green-house treatment. Syn. Chamcedorea elegans. Ku'nzea. Named after Gustav Kunze, a botanist and physician of Leipsic. A genus of Myr- tacece, comprising a number of species of green-house shrubs, often heath-like, con- fined to Australia. Flowers red, or white, in dense terminal spikes. Only two species are in cultivation. Propagated by cuttings of the half ripened wood. L. Labellum. Lip ; or rather the lower lip only. The third petal of an Orchid, usually turned toward the lower front of the flower, and very different from the remainder ; also a similar petal in other flowers. Labia'tse. An extensive natural order of herbs, or undershrubs, with square stems, opposite and exstipulate leaves, and flowers in clus- tered centrifugal cymes, or crowded into spikes. This order forms one of the most natural groups of plants ; the characters of its members are so uniform that it may be called monotypic, as if all the species could be comprehended in a single genus, and the dis- crimination of its genera is hence often very difficult. They are natives of temperate climates. Many of them are carminative, and yield volatile oils. Mint, Sage, Rosemary, Lavender, Basil, Horehound, Patchouly, Savory, Thyme, and Marjoram belong to this order, which contains upwards of 100 genera, and about 2,500 species. Coitus, Lamium, Salvia, Perilla, and Cunila are well-known representatives of the order. Labiate. Having lips ; a term applied to that form of a monopetalous calyx or corolla which is separated into two unequal divisions, the one anterior and the other posterior, with respect to the axis. Labi'chea. Named after M. Labiche, a French naval officer. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. A genus of five species of evergreen shrubs, allied to Cassia, natives of Australia. L. lanceolata, the only species now in cultivation, has trifoliate leaves, and bright yellow flowers, borne in axillary racemes. It was introduced from western Australia in 1840. Labi'sia. Spoon-flower. From labis, a spoon ; in allusion to the form of the corolla divisions, which resemble the bowls of small spoons. Nat. Ord. Myrsindcece. A genus comprising a few species of glab- rous or puberulous shrubs, with the habit of Pothos ; natives of the Malayan Archipelago. L. Maloniana, introduced from Borneo in 1885, has broad, lanceolate, velvety, dark green leaves, irregularly marked with pale green down the middle ; red and purple when young. Stem copper-colored, spotted white. L. poth- oina is a very pretty plant, producing clusters of small, rosy-white flowers. La'blab. A genus of tropical pulse, more usually included in Dolichos, which see. Labrador Tea. Ledum latifolia. This is a shrub growing from two to five feet high, common in swamps and bogs, North and West. The leaves were formerly used as a substitute for Tea, whence the common name. Labu'rnum. See Cytisus Laburnum. Lacae'na. One of the names of Helen of Troy, applied because of the beauty of the plant. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A genus of epiphytal Orchids. L. bicolor, the original species, is a native of Guatemala, and has long, pendulous racemes of flowers of a greenish-yellow color, the lip marked with purple about the center. They require a hot-house, and should be grown in flat baskets or pans, in leaf-mould and sphagnum moss, and are increased by division in spring, after blooming. Introduced in 1843. Lace Bark. See Lagetta. Lace-leaved Plant. See Ouvirandra. Lacerate. Torn ; having a torn appearance. Lachena'lia. Cape Cowslips. Named after W. de Lachenal, a botanical author. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. An extensive genus of very interesting and showy bulbous plants from the Cape of Good Hope. L. pendula, L. tricolor, and L. quadri- color are the kinds mostly cultivated in the green-house. They have long, lanceolate leaves, AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 215 LAC often spotted, and erect flower-scapes bearing pendulous flowers, the yellow color predomi- nating. They should be potted in October, in light fibrous soil, and only moderately watered until after flowering, then more freely until they show signs of ripening off. They should be kept in the pots dry during summer, and are propagated by offsets. Introduced in 1774. Lachnae'a. From lachne, down ; referring to the downy clothing of the flower heads. Nat. Ord. ThymelacecB. An interesting genus of green-house ever- green shrubs from the Cape of Good Hope, all but one with white flowers. The heads of the flowers are usually covered with fine wool, giving them a singular appearance. They are increased by cuttings, and should be kept in the shade during summer. Lachna'nthes. The Red Root. From lachne, wool, and anthos, a flower ; in allusion to the flowers, which are woolly. Nat. Ord. HcEma- doracece. L. tinctoria, or Red Root, is common in sandy swamps, from New Jersey southward. The roots were formerly used for a red dye, whence the popular name. " L. tinctoria, com- monly known as Paint Root, abounds in the Southern States, and is said to have an im- portant bearing on the agriculture of those States, from the singular fact claimed for it that when its roots are eaten by white pigs, it fatally poisons them, while black pigs eat the roots with impunity ; and hence the pre- ponderance of black pigs in the Southern States. This extraordinary statement is made by Charles Darwin, who gives Dr. Jeffries Wyman as his authority. The same testimony has recently been given by Dr. P. Statesbury, of Clinch County, Georgia." — American Agri- culturist, March, 1876. Laciniate. Cut or divided into segments ; fringed. Lactu'ca. Lettuce. From lac, milk ; referring to the milky juice. Nat. Ord. Composite. The native country of the Lettuce is un- known; and from what species the garden varieties originated is merely conjectural. According to Herodotus, it was in use 550 years before Christ ; yet Pliny says the an- cient Romans knew but one sort. In his time it was cultivated so as to be had at all seasons of the year, and even blanched to make it more tender. In the privy-purse ex- penses of Henry VIII., in 1530, is mention of a reward to the gardener of York Place for bringing " Lettuze " and Cherries to Hampton Court. Gerarde, in his Herbal, 1597, gives an account of eight sorts cultivated in his day. Parkinson, in 1629, says: "There are so many sorts, and so great diversitie of Lettice, that I doubt I shall scarce be be- leeved of a great many. For I doe in this Chapter reckon up unto you eleaven or twelve differing sorts; some of little use, others of more, being more common and vulgar; and some that are of excellant use and service, which are more rare, and re- quire more knowledge and care for the order- ing of them, as also for their time of spending, as some in the spring, some in summer, others in autume, and some being whited for the winter. For all these sorts I shall not neede many descriptions, but only shew you which doe cabbage, and which are loose ; which of them are great or small, white, greene, or red, and which of them bear white seeds, and which of them blacke." We can- not quote the whole chapter, but cannot omit one of the "Vertues of the Lettice," viz.: " They all cool a hot and fainting stomacke." Loudon says : " L. sativa is well known as furnishing, among its numerous varieties, the best vegetable of the salad kind grown in the open garden. It is questioned by some whether the greater number of what are set down as species in this genus, are anything more than variations of one type ; and, at all events, it is thought L. virosa is the parent of our cultivated sorts." All writers agree that the Cos Lettuce comes from one of the Greek islands bearing that name. It is by far the most delicately flavored of the whole class, though not well suited for our hot summers. The best kinds at present writing for our cli- mate are : For early use, the " Curled Simp- son" and "Black-seeded Simpson;" and for summer use, the " Deacon," " Salamander," " Yellow-seeded Butter," and "Henderson's New York." Hundreds of acres of glass are devoted to the forcing of Lettuce in the United States. The variety used mostly for that pur- pose is known as " Boston Market." Lacunose. Having numerous large deep exca- vations. Lad's Love. Artemisia Abrotanum. Lady Fern. Asplenium Felix-faemina. Lady's Bed-straw. Galium verum. Lady's Bower. Clematis Vitalba. Lady's Comb. Scandix Pecten- Veneris. Lady's Cushion. Armeria maritima. Lady's Ear-drops. The flowers of the common Fuchsia. Lady's Fingers. See Anthyllis. Lady's Glove. Digitalis purpurea. Lady's Hair. Briza media. Lady's Laces, or Lady's Garters. Phalaris arundinacea variegata. Lady's Looking-glass. Campanula speculum. Lady's Mantle. Alchemilla vulgaris. Lady's Slipper. See Cypripedium and Garden Balsam. Lady's Smock. Cardamine pratensis. Lady's Thimble. Campanula rotumdifolia. Lady's Thistle, Our. Carduus Marianus. Lady's Traces, or Tresses. See Spiranthes. Lady Washington Geranium. A variety name for one of the large-flowered Pelargo- niums, and for a long time in this country a common name for the whole of that class. It is to some extent still in use, though the variety bearing the name has long since been discarded ; consequently it is im- proper to thus continue to use a specific name for a generic. Lae'lia. Named after a Vestal virgin of that name, because of the variety of its flowers. Nat. Ord. Orchidacem. "This is a lovely genus of plants, most of the species being compact in their growth, with evergreen foliage, resembling in many respects, the genus Cattleya, to which some of them are equal in the beauty of their flowers. They produce their flowers, which are large, 216 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS distinct in color, and very handsome, on spikes of varied length, from the top of their pseudo-bulbs. These plants merit a place in every collection, and will amply repay the cultivator for any care they may require ; in- deed, the LcBlias are among our finest Orchids, whether for winter or summer flowering." — B. S. Williams. All the species are natives of Mexico and South America, and were first in- troduced in 1835. Laevigate. Having the appearance of being polished, as many seeds. Laevis. Free from asperities or hairs, or any sort of unevenness. Lagena'ria. Bottle Gourd. From legena, a bottle ; referring to the shape of the fruit of some species. Nat. Ord. Cucurbitacecz. L. vulgaris, the only species is an East In- dian species of Gourd, sometimes grown on account of its curious shape. Like most of the order, the pulp is poisonous. The com- mon name does not indicate the shape of all the varieties, some being pear-shaped, some nearly round, and others egg-shaped. They should be sown at the same time as Melons and Squashes, and should have a trellis or brush to run upon. Introduced in 1597. Lagerstrce'mia. In honor of Magnus Lagerstrozm of Gottenburgh. Nat. Ord. Lythracew. A genus of handsome, free-flowering shrubs from India. L. Indica is commonly known as Crape Myrtle, and is a favorite half-hardy shrub. It can be planted out in the border in spring, and will bloom profusely during mid- summer. At the approach of winter take it up, put it in a tub or box, and keep it in the cool part of the green-house or in a dry cellar, giving but very little water. There are several varieties of this species, having purple, pink, and white flowers. The latter is rather a shy bloomer, and is of dwarfer habit. Propagated by cuttings. Lage'tta. Lace Bark. Lagetto is the name of the species at Jamaica. Nat Ord. Thymelacece. A genus of "West Indian, tall-growing trees, interesting from the peculiar formation of the bark of some of the species. The inner bark of L. lintearia consists of numerous concentric layers of fibers which are interlaced in all directions, and thus presents a great degree of resemblance to lace, whence the common name of the tree. Lagu'rus. Hare's-tail Grass. From lagos, a hare, and oura, a tail; on account of the resemblance of its head. Nat. Ord. Oramin- acew. L. ovatus, the only species, is found in the Island of Guernsey, and some parts of Asia, and is one of the handsomest of culti- vated annual grasses. La'lage. Named after Lalage, a gay, witty dame, immortalized by Horace. Nat. Ord. Legumi- nosw. A small genus of ornamental shrubs, natives of the south-west coast of Australia. The flowers are either yellow or mixed orange, violet, or crimson, and are produced in axil- lary clusters. They require the green-house, and are propagated by cuttings. Syn. Bossiwa. Introduced in 1830. Lama'rckia. Named after J. B. Lamarck, the great French naturalist. Nat. Ord. Gramina- cece. LAP L. Aurea, the only species, is a pretty, many stemmed, low, ornamental annual grass. It is generally included in collections of orna- mental grasses. Native of southern Europe and north Africa. Syn. Chryswus. Lambe'rtia. Named in honor of A. B. Lambert, one of the most liberal botanists in Europe, and whose extensive herbarium was open to every man of science. Nat. Ord. Proteacew. Very handsome green-house evergreen shrubs from tropical Austi'alia. The flowers are mostly produced in terminal clusters, sometimes singly, the prevailing color being dark red, with occasionally an orange tint. Height of plant three to four feet. They are readily increased by cuttings, but must be grown with considerable care, the principal caution being against over-watering ; any ex- cess in that is fatal to them. Introduced in 1824. Lambkill. See Kalmia. Lamb's Lettuce or Corn Salad. See Valerianella. Lamb's Toe. Anthyllis vulneraria. Lamb's Tongue. Plantago media. Lamium. From laimos, a throat ; on account of the shape of the corolla. Nat. Ord. Labiatw. A genus of herbaceous plants of but little interest. L. album or Dead Nettle received its English name from the resemblance of its leaves to those of the true Nettle, from which, however, it may be distinguished by its square stem. L. maculatum is a pretty dwarf, free- growing border plant, its variety (aureum) with golden-colored foliage is useful either as a rock or border plant, or for spring bedding. Lamproco'ccus. This genus is now included by Bentham and Hooker under jEchmea. Lanate, Lanuginose. Long, dense, curled and matted hairs, resembling wool. Lanceolate. Shaped like the head of a spear ; narrow and tapering at each end. Lance- wood. The light elastic wood of Dugue- tia guitar ensis. Lando'lphia. Named after M. Landolphe, an African explorer. A genus of scandent shrubs, natives of tropical Africa and Madagascar. Caoutchouc is obtained in large quantities from many of the species. L. owariensis, L. florida, and other species have been intro- duced to Kew, and distributed to various of the British colonies. The former bears a red- dish-brown fruit about the size of an orange, with an agreeable, sweetish, acid pulp. Cut- tings root readily in heat. Lanta'na. Ancient name for Viburnum. Nat. Ord. Verbenaceai. An extensive genus of ornamental, free- flowering, tender shrubs, common from the West Indies to Brazil. The species are rapid growers, and most constant bloomers. They are readily increased by cuttings, and will grow freely in the garden, preferring a sunny situation. Many new varieties have been produced from seeds, comprising, red, golden, white, or various colored flowers, which are much used for bedding-out purposes and as specimen decorative plants. First introduced from the West Indies in 1692. Lantern Flower. The genus Abutilon. Lapage'ria. Named after Josephine Lapagerie, wife of Napoleon I. Nat. Ord. Liliacem. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 217 LAP L. rosea, and its white variety, are unques- tionably the most beautiful green-house twin- ing plants yet introduced. The stems are round, branching, and with proper treatment, will grow to almost any required length. The flowers are large, lily or bell-shaped, and pro- duced on solitary, one-flowered peduncles. L. rosea has deep rose-colored flowers, spotted inside with white. Several seedling varieties with larger flowers and of a rich, brilliant crimson color, are in cultivation ; a double variety has also been introduced, the charac- ter of which has not yet been established. They should be grown in a house with a low temperature, and given plenty of air, water, and root room ; the latter is a necessity. They do tolerably well grown in tubs, but are seldom seen in perfection except when turned into the border, and grown in a soil largely composed of turfy peat, good turfy loam, and sand. They are increased either by layers or from seeds, the latter being preferable ; plants from cuttings rarely succeed. They are na- tives of Chili, and were introduced in 1847. Lapeyrou'sia. Named in honor of J. F. G. de La Peyrouse, the French navigator. Nat. Ord. IridacecB. A small genus of showy flowering bulbs, blue, white, purple, or pink in color, in gen- eral habit resembling the Ixias, and requiring the same treatment. Closely allied to Ano- matheca. Natives of the Cape of Good Hope ; first introduced in 1825. Syn. "Peyrousia." Iiapo'rtea. Named by Gaudichand, after his friend M. Laporte. A genus of Urticaeece, con- sisting of herbs, shrubs, or trees, natives of North America and the warmer regions of the Old World. Some of the species, as L. gigas, are armed with very virulent stings, the ef- fect of which remains for many days, or even months. L. Canadensis (Wood Nettle), a native species, has lately been imported into Germany as a new textile plant ; it is peren- nial and capable of enduring the climate of central Germany, but further experiments are needed ere its commercial value can be deter- mined. La'ppa. Arctium Lappa, or Burdock. Larch. See Larix. Lardiza'bala. In honor of M. Lardizabala y Uribe, a Spanish naturalist. Nat. Ord. Ber- beridaceaz. Half-hardy evergreen climbers, natives of Chili. L. biternata, the most beautiful of the species, has dark, glossy, evergreen foliage, and drooping spikes of deep, purple flowers. In Chili a very tough fibre is obtained from its stems and made into cordage ; and its fruit, containing a sweet-tasted pulp, is sold in the markets. This species would make a splendid creeping plant for covering walls in the Southern States, but would not be hardy north of Virginia. La'rix. Larch. From the Celtic, lar, fat; on account of the tree producing plenty of resin. Nat. Ord. Coniferm. Larix Americana, one of our native species, is a beautiful deciduous tree, growing to its greatest perfection in the more northern States and Canada, where it attains a height of from eighty to a hundred feet, with a diam- eter of from two to three feet. The wood of the American species is popularly known as LAT Hackmatack, or American Black Larch, and is superior to any of the species of Pine or Spruce for ship-building, for which purpose it is largely employed in Maine and the Brit- ish Provinces. The trees are small and of but little value south of Maine. Its southern limits are the mountains of Virginia. L. oc- cidentalis, found in British Columbia, northern Washington Territory, the western slopes of the Rocky Mountains of Montana, very com- mon, and perhaps reaching its greatest devel- opment in the region north of the Big Black- foot river, and in the valley of the Flathead river, Montana, is the largest and most valu- able timber tree of the Columbia basin. It is not so fine an ornamental tree as L. Europ&a, which is also a valuable timber-tree, and worthy of a place on the lawn. There are a number of varieties. Larkspur. A general name for the garden species of Delphinium. La'rrea. In honor of John Anthony de Larrea, a Spanish promoter of the sciences. Nat. Ord. Zygophyllacem. L. Mexicana, the Creosote plant, is a shrub growing from four to six feet high, very abundant in some parts of Mexico, forming a dense and almost impassable scrub, particu- larly on the borders of the Colorado desert, where its luxuriant growth puts a stop to the drifting sand. Its appearance is a sure indi- cation of a sterile soil, as nothing will grow beneath it, and its strong Creosote odor is so repulsive that no animal will touch it. It is with great difficulty that it can be made to burn, and it is consequently useless for fuel. Lasia'ndra. From lasios, woolly, and aner, an anther ; alluding to the hairy stamens. Nat. Ord. Melastomaceoj. A large genus of green-house evergreen shrubs, with handsome foliage, and producing large panicles of beautiful purple flowers. They are easily propagated from cuttings, and were introduced from Rio Janeiro in 1836. Syn. Pleroma. Lasthe'nia. Derivation of name unknown. Nat. Ord. Composite. A small genus of hardy annuals from Cali- fornia, the seeds of which should be sown in autumn or early spring. The flowers are pure golden yellow, making it a very pretty border plant. Introduced in 1834. La'straea. Derivation unexplained. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacem. An extensive genus of polypodiaceous Ferns, formerly included in the genus As- pidium. Some of the newly-introduced spe- cies from Australia grow luxuriantly in the ordinary green-house. Like all of the order a moist atmosphere is favorable to their per- fect development. This genus is now in- cluded by some botanists under Nephrodium. Lata'nia. Bourbon Palm. Latanier is the name of the palm in the Isle of Bourbon. Nat. Ord. Palmaceo3. A small genus of very handsome palms, with branching flower spikes, the male and female being produced on different plants. L. Verschaffeltii (Syn. L. aurea) has flabelliform roundish, deeply incised leaves of a deep glaucous-green color, and golden-colored midribs. The petiole is smooth, of an orange tint and from two to four feet long. 218 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS LAT L. Commersonii, has deeply incised, gracefully . recurved leaves, the segments margined with a reddish colored band, edged with fine teeth- like spines ; the petioles are long and smooth, of a deep chocolate-red color. It is a very handsome and distinct species. They are propagated by seed, which grows freely if given a mild bottom heat. They can be kept in the green-house during winter, and require but little water. In the summer give them plenty of heat and water ; their growth will be in proportion to the amount of each given. The species known in cultivation as Latania Borbonica, is now named Livistona Chinensis, which see. Lateral. Fixed near or upon the side of any- thing. Laterals. The sideshoots that emanate right and left of the leading branch or shoot. Lathrae'a. Tooth Wort. From lathraios, hid- den, on account of the species being found as if hidden under trees. Curious leafless, her- baceous plants, belonging to the Orobanchacem, natives of western Europe and Asia, with white, yellowish, or pinkish flowers in dense spikes. Parasitical on the roots of various trees. La'thyrus. From la, to add to, and thowros, an irritant ; to increase excitement ; the sup- posed qualities of the seeds. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A large genus of very beautiful, free-flower- ing climbing annuals and perennials, found in the temperate regions of both hemispheres. L. odoratus, the Sweet Pea of our gardens, is a native of southern Sicily, and was first in- troduced into England in 1701. On account of its fragrance it is the most desirable of the species. There is now great diversity in the colors of the different varieties, some of late introduction being the best in cultivation ; they include white, purple, black, scarlet, blue-edged, and striped sorts. The Sweet Pea delights in a heavy, stiff loam, and will not succeed in a light soil unless planted very deep, say five inches, and the earth well packed down around the plants. L. sylvestris platyphyllus (L. latifolius), or Everlasting Pea (of gardens), of which there are three varieties, producing purple, rose, and white flowers, are pretty generally distributed throughout Europe. They grow from six to eight feet high when properly trained upon a trellis ; and if planted in a moist soil will prolong their season of flowering nearly the whole summer. They are extensively used in New York and other large cities as cut flowers. L. MageU lanicus, a perennial species from Cape Horn, is remarkable for the beauty of its foliage, as well as for its showy blue flowers. The perennials are propagated by root division and from seed. Seedlings do not usually get strong enough to flower well before the third year ; ' they will, however, produce some flowers the . second year. There is one perennial species, L. tuberosa, occasionally met in Europe, hav- ing edible tubers, which, if baked or roasted, are said to be great delicacies. The flowers of this species are borne in clusters on long peduncles ; they are of medium size, and of a rosy-pink color. There are several other species under cultivation. Lattice Plant. See Ouvirandra. LAV Laura'ceae. A natural order of trees, with ex- stipulate, usually alternate, dotted leaves. They are tropical, aromatic, and fragrant plants. Cinnamomum Zeylanicum yields Cin- namon Bark. C. cassia supplies Cassia Bark. Camphora officinarum, a native of China, Japan, and Cochin China, yields Camphor. Persea gratissima furnishes the fruit called Avocado Pear or Alligator Pear. Sassafras officinale is the American Sassafras Tree. Lawrus nobilis is the Sweet Bay. There are about fifty genera and between 400 and 500 species. Laurus, Cinnamomum, Camphora, and Sassafras are examples of the order. Laurel or Cherry Laurel. Cerasus Lauro~ cerasus. American. Kalmia latifolia. Calif ornian. Oreodaphne Californica. Ground. Epigaia repens. Magnolia. See Magnolia glauca. Portugal. Cerasus Lusitanica. Sheep's. Kalmia angustifolia. Spurge. Daphne Laureola. Victor's. See Laurus nobilis. Lau'rus. Laurel. From the Celtic law, green. Nat. Ord. Lauracem. Under the common name of Laurel many different plants are met in fields and gardens, but the Sweet Bay, or Victor's Laurel, L. nobilis is the only one which is properly so called. It is a native of southern Europe, and is a beautiful evergreen shrub or tree. In some localities it grows to the height of fifty or sixty feet, always retaining its shrub- like character. Its leaves have an agreeable aromatic, slightly bitter taste ; its flowers are yellowish and inconspicuous, and its fruits are succulent, and of the size of a small cherry. The leaves, because of their agreeable flavor, are used in cooking and in various confec- tions. The dried figs that are imported into this country are usually packed with these leaves. This tree is not hardy enough to resist the winters north of the Carolinas. Propagated by layers, root cuttings, or by seeds. Laurusti'nus. See Viburnum tinus. Lava'ndula. Lavender. From lavo, to wash, in allusion to the use made of its distilled water. Nat. Ord. Labiataai. Mostly under-shrubs, natives of the south of Europe, but largely grown in England and France for the sake of their perfume, and for the oil, on which this property depends. The essential oil of Lavender is produced by distillation from the flowers, and is much prized for its agreeable odor. When dissolved in spirits of wine, and mixed with other pur- fumes, it forms the much appreciated Laven- der Water. This oil is the essential element in the Sweet Spirits of Lavender of the drug- gists. L. vera is the species grown for these extracts, and is propagated by cuttings or from seed. All the hardy species are orna- mental. Lavate'ra. Named after the the two Lavaters, Swiss botanists. Nat. Ord. Malvaceae. An extensive genus of herbaceous peren- nials, biennials, and annuals, common throughout Europe and western Asia. They are mostly coarse-growing, bushy plants, of little merit. The annual species are rather showy, producing large purple flowers, suit- AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 219 LAV able only for backgrounds to other plants. The seed need only be sown where wanted to grow. Lavender. See Lavandula. Cotton. See Santolina. Lawn. Is the name given to the open grass space surrounding a dwelling. The prepara- tion of the lawn should be preliminary to the laying out of flower-beds in grounds having pretensions to what is called Landscape Gar- dening. The formation of the lawn is too often hastily and imperfectly done ; it is the foundation of all subsequent operations, and if badly done at first, the fault can never be remedied afterwards. The first thing to be done is to get the ground shaped to the desired grade, taking care in grading that when hills or rocks are removed, sufficient subsoil is also removed to be replaced with , top soil ; so that at least five inches of good soil will overlay the whole in all places. When the grading is finished, if the nature of the ground requires it, drains should be laid wherever necessary (see Draining) ; then the whole should be thoroughly plowed, a sub- soil following in the wake of the common plow, until it is completely pulverized. A heavy harrow should then be applied until the surface is thoroughly fined down ; all stones, roots, etc., should be removed, so that a smooth surface may be obtained. The lawn is now ready to be sown. "When the seed is gown, a light harrow should again be applied, and after that a thorough rolling given, so that the surface is made as smooth and firm as possible. In the latitude of New York, the seed may be sown any time during the months of April and May, and will form a good lawn by August, if the preparation has been good. If sown in the hot months of June or July, a sprinkling of oats should be sown at the same time, so that the shade given by the oats will protect the young grass from the sun. Lawns are also sometimes sown during the early fall i. months (September being the best) with excel- lent results. The formula for seed for lawn grass now known in New York as Central Park Mixture, is as follows : Eight quarts Rhode Island Bent Grass; three quarts Creeping Bent Grass; ten quarts Red Top Grass ; ten quarts Kentucky Blue Grass ; one quart White Clover. For small plots, of course, digging, trenching, and raking must be done, instead of plowing, sub-soiling, and harrowing. Wherever the extent of the lawn does not exceed 2,500 square feet* and where sods can be obtained from a suitable pasture near at hand without much cost, the quickest way to make the lawn is to sod it; but before doing so, the ground should be rolled or beaten down, particularly if any portion of it has been filled in, so that there may be no " set- tling " to form hollows or inequalities. A con- venient size of sod to lay down is twelve by eighteen inches, and of a thickness of two inches. In laying, see that the edges are neatly laid together, and the whole firmly beaten down with the back of a spade. If it is dry weather when the work is done, it may be necessary to thoroughly drench the newly- laid sod for a week or so after, every other evening. To keep the lawn in proper condition, it should be mowed over once every week, if the LAW weather is moist, and not less than once in two weeks, even in dry weather; for if the lawn has been properly made in the first place, and " top-dressed " with a good coat of well- rotted manure in fall, and the rough parts raked off in spring, the weather must be dry and hot indeed to prevent its growth. On sloping banks it is often necessary to use sod, as the rains wash the soil off before the grass-seed has time to germinate. It is some- times even necessary, in sodding very steep banks, to use pins eight or ten inches in length, to pin the sods to place, to prevent them from being washed down by excessive rains before the grass-roots have had time to fasten in the soil. Lawns that have been worn out by neglect or other causes, or where it is not convenient or desirable to renew them by plowing up, will be greatly benefited by running a light harrow over them if the surface is large, or by a sharp steel rake for smaller areas. After stirring the surface by such means, judiciously, so as not to injure the roots too severely, lawn grass should be sown over the surface, using about half the quantity of seed required for new lawns, and over this for each acre, or in the same proportions for lesser areas, sow 500 pounds of some good "lawn enricher;" again harrow or rake, and roll down firmly. Weeds in lawns, such as thistles, dande- lions, dock-roots, etc., can only be removed by cutting them out with a knife. Thistle and dock-roots should be removed as far as possible ; but as to others, there is no neces- sity for cutting the whole root out. If cut below the crown, the root will not start again. Ants on lawns are a pest that we are almost powerless to cope with. Nothing seems to poison them, as either their instinct teaches them to avoid the ordinary insect poisons, or their constitutions are proof against them. Everything we have tried has failed, except Pyrethrum or Persian insect powder. This applied by a bellows quickly suffocates them ; but every insect needs to be struck by it, or it is useless, as it only kills them by suffocation. They can also be captured by placing fresh bones or molasses in plates around their haunts; they attack these before anything else. By persistently thus catching and destroying them two or three times a day, they may be permanently got rid of. Lawso'nia. Henna Plant. Named after Dr. Isaac Lawson, a botanical traveler. Nat. Ord. Lythracem. L. Alba, the only species, the celebrated Henna of the East, and is a dwarf shrub, eight to ten feet high, bearing smooth, oval, lance- shaped, entire leaves, and panicles of small, white, sweet-smelling flowers, which are used by Buddhists as offerings to their deities. This shrub is grown, throughout India, Persia, Egypt, and the north of Africa, and the use of the powdered leaves as a cosmetic is very general in all these countries, the practice having descended from very remote ages, as is proved by the evidence of Egyptian Mummies, the parts dyed being usually the finger and toe nails, the tips of the fingers, the palms of the hands, and the soles of the feet, to all of which it imparts a reddish- orange color, which is considered by the Orien- tal fair sex, greatly to enhance their beauty. 220 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS LAX In the West Indies where it is naturalized, it goes by the name of Jamaica Mignonette. Laxma'nnia. Named after E. Laxmann, a Sibe- rian traveler. Nat. Ord. LiliacecB. A small genus of low-growing, green-house herbaceous plants, from New Holland. The flowers are borne in terminal heads on slender scapes, six inches high, and are either white or purple. They are increased by division of the root, and were introduced in 1824. Layering. See Propagation by Layering. La'yia. Named in honor of Thomas Lay, nat- uralist in Beechey's Voyage. A genus of Com- posites, consisting of seven or eight annual or biennial herbs, natives of California, and Oregon, usually pubescent or hirsute, often glandular, with alternate leaves, and white or yellow flowers ; increased by seeds. Syn. Cal- lichroa, Calliglossa, and Oxyura. Lead-colored. Slate colored, with a slight metallic lustre. Lead Plant. See Amorpha canescens. Leadwort. See Plumbago. Leaf. An appendage to the stem, considered as an expansion to the bark, composed of cellu- lar tissue, and generally with fibres of vascu- lar tissue intermixed. Leaf Cup. The genus Polymnia. Leather Flower. The common name of Clematis Viorna. Leather Leaf. Leather-wood. Cassandra calyculata. See Dirca. Le'chea. A genus of Cistacem differing from Helianthemum in some slight particulars. There are four or five species, all natives of the United States, slender, much branched perennial herbs with numerous small green- ish or purple flowers. Common in dry sterile soils. . Le'cythis. From lecythos an oil-jar ; in allusion to the shape of the seed-vessels. A genus of Myrtacece, almost exclusively confined to Venezuela, Guiana, and Brazil. Under the name of Sapucai Nuts the seeds of L. Zabu- cajo are sold as a substitute for the closely allied Brazil nuts, to which they are far su- perior. L. Ollaria produces large fruits com- monly known as Monkey Pots, but the seeds are not so palatable as the former, leaving a bitter flavor in the mouth. Ledenbe'rgia. A commemorative name. Nat. Ord. Phytolaccaceoe. L. rosea-amea the only species is a very ornamental-leaved warm green-house shrub, with large, thick obovate-lanceolate leaves, dark shining coppery-green on the upper surface and bright rosy-violet color beneath. The stems and branches are reddish-purple. It was introduced from Central America in 1869, and is readily increased by cuttings in heat. Le'dum. Labrador Tea From ledon, the Greek name of Cistus, which this genus resembles. Nat. Ord. Ericaceae. A small genus of hardy, evergreen, white- flowering shrubs, natives of British America. See Labrador Tea. Lee'a. Commemorative of James Lee, a London nurseryman, who did a good deal to popular- ize the Linnsean system. A genus of VitacecB, LEM consisting of rough shrubby plants (rarely trees), found in tropical Asia, Africa, and the Mauritius. Plants of little interest except L. amabilis which is a very handsome foliaged plant. Introduced from Borneo in 1880. Leek. Allium Porrum. Legume. A name given to the seed-vessel of the Pea family, opening the two valves, and having the seeds attached to the ventral suture. Legumino'sas. A natural order of herbs, shrubs, or trees, with alternate, usually compound, exstipulate leaves. The plants occur in all parts of the world, but are abundant in trop- ical countriesi The order is a large one, and has been divided into three sub-orders, viz : Papilionacere, Casalpinece, and Mimosem. They supply food, timber, fibre, gums, dyes, and various economical substances. Some are poisonous. Among the useful plants may be mentioned Beans, Peas, Lentils, Pulse of various kinds, Lupins, Clover, Lucerne, Sain- foin, Tragacanth, Indigo, and others. There are about 550 genera and 7,000 species. Phaseolus, Vicia, Pisum, Lotus, Cassia, and Acacia are examples of the order. Leiophy'llum. Sand Myrtle. From leios, smooth, and phyllon, a leaf; referring to the leaves being quite smooth. Nat. Ord. Ericacece. L. buxifolium, the only species, is a small erect bushy evergreen shrub, its pretty white flowers having pink tips. Natives of New Jersey, and the mountains of Virginia. Syn. Ledum buxifolium. Lemna. Duck-weed. An old Greek name of uncertain meaning. Nat. Ord. Lemnacece. A genus of small floating herbs distributed over Europe, Northern Asia, and North America, but very rare in the tropics. These plants are without distinct stems or real leaves, " but consist of small leaf-like fronds, either separate, or cohering two or three together by their edges, emitting in most species, one or more fibres from their under surface into the water, and multiplying by similar fronds growing out of their edges. Flowers very rare, appearing from a fissure in the edge, or on the upper surface of the frond " (Bentham). The pretty little Nertera depressa with its red fruits is often called Australian or Fruiting Duck-weed, showing plainly the absurdity and inutility of English names only, to distinguish plants. Lemnaceae. A natural order of very small herbaceous plants, found floating on the surface of stagnant waters especially in tem- perate regions. The two genera, Lemna and Wolffia, are the smallest known Phanerogam- ous plants, and are closely allied to Aroidece, and Naidacece. Lemon. See Citrus. Lemon Grass. A popular name of one of the species of Andropogon. Lemo'nia. Named in honor of Sir Charles Lemon. Nat. Ord. Rutacew. L. spectabilis, the only species, is a green- house evergreen shrub from Cuba, producing axillary clusters of beautiful rose-colored flowers in September. During summer they require plenty of heat and water, and in winter to be kept dormant, with only water enough J,AYIA ELEGANS. LATHYKUS OJMJliAlXS (SWKET PEASJ. LEPTOSIPHON KOSETJS. LAtiUBUS. CATANIA BOBBONIOA (LIVISTONA CHINENRIK). LAFAGEBIA. LIMNANTHE.S. LEONOTIS (LION'S TAIL). LESPEDEZA (JAPAN CLOVEB). LEUCOJUM VEKNUM. LEONTOPODIUM (EDELWEISS). AND GENEKAL HORTICULTURE. 221 LEM to keep them from shriveling. Propagated by cuttings. Syn. Ravenia. Lemon Verbena. Aloysia citriodora. Lens esculenta. Syn. for Ervum lens {Lentil). Lentibularia'ceae. A natural order containing four genera of principally aquatic or marsh herbs, most abundant in the tropics. The most familiar examples are the common Blad- der-wort ( Utricularia) and Pinguicula. Lenticular. Shaped like a lens ; resembling a double convex lens. Lentil. See Ervum Lens. Lent Lily. A common name for Narcissus Pseudo- Narcissus. Lent Rose. A name given to Helleborus orien- talis, H. Olympicus, and other species. Leono'tis. Lion's Ear. From leon, a lion, and ous, an ear ; some resemblance in the flower. Nat. Ord. Labiatce. A small genus of annuals and green-house evergreen shrubs. Of the latter L. leonurus, the Lion's Tail, is a magnificent species from the Cape of Good Hope, producing brilliant scarlet flowers. It requires a rough, sandy loam, with plenty of air, and during the sum- mer a liberal supply of water, when it will not fail to grow and flower finely. It is propa- gated by cuttings. The other species are scarcely worth growing. L. cardiaca is known in domestic medicine as Motherwort. Leo'ntice. From leon, leontos, a lion ; alluding to the fancied resemblance in the leaves to the print of a lion's foot. Nat. Ord. Berberi- dacece. A small genus of herbs with tuberous rhi- zomes, natives of southern Europe and central Asia. L. Altaica, the best-known species, is a dwarf half-hardy plant, producing terminal deflected racemes of yellow flowers early in May. It may be increased by offsets or seeds. Leo'ntodon. Hawk-bit. From leon, a lion, and odons, a tooth; referring to the tooth-like margins of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Composite. A genus comprising about forty species of hardy herbaceous plants, very generally dis- tributed in the old world, only one being native of America. None of the species are of any horticultural value. Leontopo'dium. Edelweiss. Lion's Foot. From leon, a lion, and pous, a foot; resem- blance of the flower-heads. Nat. Ord. Com- posite. L. alpinum, the only species under cultiva- tion, was formerly included in the genus Gnaphalium. This singular plant is a native of the Swiss Alps, where it is known by the popular title Edelweiss. The flower-heads are flat, topped by a wide-spreading, woolly-leaved foliaceous involucre. The appearance not inaptly resembles the soft-cushioned foot of the lion, hence the generic name. It suc- ceeds best on rock-work, or in exposed spots in moist, sandy soil, and is increased by seeds or by careful division. Syns. Gnaphalium Leontopodium and L. Helveticum. Leopard's Bane. See Doronicwm. Leopard Wood. See Brosimum. Leopoldi'nia. Named after the late Empress of Brazil. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. A small genus of Brazilian Palms, compris- ing three or four species, existing in consid- LEP erable numbers on the Amazon and Rio Negro. The trees are of medium size, bear- ing terminal, smooth, pinnate leaves, and having the upper part of their stems covered with a copious network of fibres. L. Piassaba is one of the Palms which yield the Piassaba or Piacaba fibre, now so extensively employed by brush-makers as a substitute for bristles, and also for making the stout street brooms used in all large cities. Two distinct varieties of this fibre are recognized in commerce, one being a coarse kind obtained from Attalea funifera and imported from Bahia; and the other a finer kind brought from Para, the pro- duce of the Leopoldinia, which is found grow- ing in great abundance on the extensive plains between the Rio Negro and Orinoco rivers, forming entire forests. It attains a height of from fifteen to forty feet, and the fibre, or beard, as it is usually called, which is the envelope of the young leaves, hangs down all round, and completely covers the trunk quite to the ground, except in very tall trees, the lower part of whose trunk is gen- erally bare. The brushes made from this fibre are known in trade as Tampico, and for many purposes are considered superior to those made from bristles. Lepa'nthes. From lepos, bark, or lepis, scale, and anthos, a flower ; the plants of this genus have very small flowers, and grow upon the bark of trees. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A genus of the dwarfest of Orchids, with the habit of, and nearly related to, Pleurothal- lus. They can only be grown under a bell- glass, among damp moss, in a cool part of the house. They are natives of Mexico and the West Indies, and are propagated by division. Introduced in 1834. Lepa'nthus. A synonym of Heteranthera. Lepi'dium. Cress or Peppergrass. From lepis, a scale ; in allusion to the shape of the pods, which appear like little scales. Nat. Ord. Cruciferce. A very extensive genus of hardy annuals and perennials, found distributed throughout the temperate regions of the earth. The only species of interest are L. sativum, the com- mon garden Peppergrass, whose nativity is attributed to Persia : and L. Piscidium, found in the Society and Sandwich Islands. This species, in common with many other plants, possesses properties that intoxicate fish, and the natives use it for that purpose. When thrown into the water it is eagerly eaten by the fish, which are, soon after eating it, rendered insensible, and float helplessly upon the water, and are easily taken. There are sev- eral native and naturalized species common in this country, all of them weeds. Lepta'ndra. Included under Veronica. Leptochlo'a. Slender Grass. From leptos, slender, and chloa, grass ; in allusion to the slender habit of the grass. Nat. Ord. Gramir nacece. A small genus of slender grasses inhabiting North and South America. L. gracilis is a graceful grass with long plume-like panicles. None of the species are considered valuable for agricultural purposes. Leptosi'phon. From leptos, and siphon, a tube ; alluding to the tube of the flower. Nat. Ord. Polemoniacece. 222 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS LEP Handsome dwarf-growing Californian an- nuals. Some of the species make charming bedding plants. When planted in masses they form an entire sheet of pure white or lilac flowers, not more than eight inches from the surface of the soil. They succeed well in the open border, and by successive sowings may be had in flower the entire summer and au- tumn. They are also well adapted for grow- ing in pots to bloom in winter. This genus is closely allied to Gilia, under which it is placed by some authors. Leptospe'rmum. From leptos, slender, and sperma, a seed ; seeds slender. A large genus of shrubs or small trees belonging to the Myrtacem, and nearly all confined to Australia and Tasmania. The leaves are alternate, small, leathery, and full of dots, or cells containing oil ; their white flowers are borne on short stalks, on the sides of the young branches, either solitary or in little clusters. L. lani- gerum, a native of Tasmania and south-eastern Australia, is commonly called Tea tree, on ac- count of its leaves having been used by the early settlers in these countries, as a substi- tute for tea. Propagated by cuttings of the young shoots. Lepto'syne. From leptosin, slender; a name applicable to the original species. Nat. Ord. Composite. A genus of annual, or perennial, herbaceous, or suffruticose plants, with showy peduncu- late heads the ray and disk being both bright-yellow and pinnately divided or dis- sected leaves. They have the habit of Core- opsis, which they represent on the western side of North America. L. Maritima, an autumn blooming perennial, is cultivated under the name of " Mid-Winter Sunflower." Lepto'tes. From leptos, slender; referring to the leaves. Nat. Ord. Orchidacem. A small genus of Brazilian Orchids. The two species known, are pretty little epiphytes, producing small, rush-like leaves and lovely white flowers, having a blotch of bright crim- son on the lip. They are of easy culture, growing in the green-house, either on cork or in baskets of moss, and requiring liberal wat- ering during the growing season. They are propagated by division ; introduced in 1831. Leptu'rus. A small genus of grasses but rarely met; it is occasionally found inhabiting marshy places on the sea-coast, where it fur- nishes considerable pasture for cattle. Leschenau'ltia. Named after M. Leschenault, a French botanist. Nat. Ord. Goodeniacece. A small genus of very ornamental heath- like shrubs, with rich blue or scarlet flowers, natives of Australia. They are among the most beautiful and effective green-house hard-wooded plants, and re- quire the most careful attention at all sea- sons, particularly in regard to watering. L. biloba major is perhaps the finest blue hard- wooded shrub in cultivation, and L. formosa with scarlet flowers, is an exceedingly hand- some species. They are propagated by cut- tings of the moderately firm young shoots in a little heat. Lespede'za. Named in honor of M. Lespedez, once Governor of Florida, and a great patron of botany. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. LEU A genus of low-growing, pea-flowering shrubs, annuals and herbaceous perennials, common from South Carolina to Mississippi. Some of the kinds are showy when in flower. L. bicolor, introduced from Japan under the name of Desmodium penduliflorum, is a hardy deciduous shrub, blooming in the autumn, and producing long, pendulous, branched panicles of rich rosy-purple colored flowers. If pruned close down to the ground every spring it forms a neat, graceful bush, two to three feet high, covered in autumn with blos- som ; a splendid addition to any collection of herbaceous plants. The species of most value is L. striata, or Japan Clover, which first appeared in 1849, near Charleston, S. C. The seeds are supposed to have been brought from Japan, or China, in some tea boxes. It rapidly spread into Georgia, and in 1870 ap- peared in Tennessee, and now spreads from the Atlantic coast to the Mississippi River. It is a low perennial plant, with a spreading habit, much like that of white clover. It flourishes on the poorest soils, preventing washing by rains, furnishing not only good grazing, but fertilizing the soil by the decay of its stubble as clover does. For sheep pas- ture,- south of Virginia it is scarcely excelled by any other forage plant. Lettuce. See Lactuca. Leucade'ndron. From leukos, white, and den- dron, a tree ; in allusion to the white leaves. Nat. Ord. Proteaceoz. An extensive genus of green-house ever- green shrubs from the Cape of Good Hope. They are cultivated for their silvery foliage, and their large terminal clusters of yellow flowers, which are produced in June and July. They all grow freely in a cool green-house, if care be observed not to over-water in winter ; in fact, they are at all times impatient of water. They are readily increased by cuttings or ripened wood. L. argenteum is the Witte- broom, or Silver Tree, of the Cape colonists. It is a very handsome tree, too rarely seen in cultivation. The beautiful silvery -white dried leaves are imported, and largely used in the manufacture of wreaths, etc. Leuca'nthemum. Ox-eye Daisy. From leukos, white, and anthos, a flower; white flowers, Nat. Ord. Compositor. This pernicious weed, L. vulgare, formerly included in the genus Chrysanthemum (C. leu- canthemum), is a native of Great Britain, but has become thoroughly naturalized in many parts of the United States. It is a perennial, and increases rapidly from seed, or from the roots. L. alpinum is rather a quaint, pretty, very dwarf plant, with white, daisy-like flow- ers, and well deserves cultivation on rock- work in poor, gravelly soil. It is sometimes known as Chrysanthemum articum and Pyreth- rum alpinum. Leucoco'ryne. From leukor, white, and koryne, a club ; because of the white sterile anthers. Nat. Ord. Liliacem. Half-hardy bulbous plants, pretty, and de- serving attention. They may be cultivated either in pots or in the open ground, if they are taken up and preserved in sand through the winter. The flowers are large for the size of the plant, and are either white or lilac. They are increased by offsets, and when AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 223 LEU planted in the borders the bulbs should be set rather closely together to insure a display. Introduced from Chili in. 1851. Iieuchtenbe'rgia. Named after Prince Leuchten- berg. Nat. Ord. Cactacecs. L. principis, the only species, has glaucous- green, succulent, triangular leaves, truncated at the apex, and there bearing six or seven long, chaffy, almost horny scales, of which the center one is almost as long as the mami- lse, and the others form a whorl round the center. The stem is about as thick as a man's arm, hard and woody, and the flowers are a rich, clear yellow, large, usually solitary, and produced at the top of the plant, among the younger mamilsB. It was introduced from Mexico in 1847, and requires the same treat- ment as Mamillaria. Leucoca'rpus. From leucos, white, and Kar- pos, a fruit ; alluding to the color of the ber- ries. Nat. Ord. ScrophulariacecB. L.. alatus, the only species, a native of Mexico, is a tall, puberulous or glabrous green-house plant, with yellow bi-abiate flow- ers and large opposite-spreading leaves. It grows from two to two and a half feet high, and is very ornamental when laden with its white fruits. Syn. Mimulus perfoliatus. Le'ucojum. Snowflake. From leukos, white, and ion, a violet ; in reference to the color of the flower, whence the English name Snow- flake. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidaeece. Hardy bulbs, growing to the height of twelve and eighteen inches, and producing spikes of pretty white flowers like the Snow- drop. They increase by offsets from the bulbs. L. vernum, Spring Snowflake, one of our best early flowering bulbs, is a native of Germany and Switzerland, where it is found wild in the woods and other shady places. It was introduced in 1596 ; is dedi- , cated to St. Agnes, the patron saint of young virgins, from its loveliness and purity, and hence is called St. Agnes's Flower. In Park- inson's time it was also known by the name j of the Great Early Bulbous Violet. It is said to have become naturalized in the neighbor- hood of Bridgeport, Dorsetshire, England. These very elegant and delightfully fragrant flowers greatly resemble the Snowdrop, but they are much larger, and are about a month later. There is a yellowish green spot on each petal near the point. They are among the most desirable of early flowering bulbs, and are suitable for rock-work or borders. A shel- tered situation should be chosen, and the soil should be well-drained. Syn. Erinosma. Leucophy'ta Brownii. A synonym for Caloce- phalus Brownii, which see. Leucopo'gon. From leukos, white, and pogon, a beard ; referring to the hairs on the flowers. Nat. Ord. Epacridacece. An extensive genus of evergreen shrubs, with handsome white flowers, produced in terminal or axillary spikes. The species are widely scattered over Australia, Tasmania, and New Zealand. But few of the species are under cultivation. Leucospe'rmum. From leucos, white, and sperma, a seed; in allusion to the downy seeds. A genus of Proteacece, consisting of evergreen shrubs, or small trees, natives of south Africa. The flowers are solitary under LHO each bract, sessile, and capitate, and the leaves are sessile and coriaceous, generally covered with silky hairs. Several species are in cultivation. Leucoste'gia. A genus of Ferns now incor- porated with Davallia. Leucotho'e. The name of a sea-goddess in the Greek Mythology. Nat. Ord. Ericaceae. A genus of handsome hardy evergreen shrubs, natives of North America and Japan. The flowers are white, and are disposed in terminal and axillary racemes. They are among the most desirable of hardy Ericaceous shrubs, and are propagated by seeds, layers, or divisions of established plants early in spring. L. Davisice is a handsome evergreen shrub, a native of California, where it grows from three to five feet high. It has rather small deep green foliage, and bears at the tops of each branch, clusters of small white blossoms, which being abundant, are very effective. Levi'sticum. From levo, to assuage ; the plant is said to relieve flatulency. Nat. Ord. Um- belliferoe. L. officinale, the only species in cultivation, is a hardy herbaceous perennial, with yellow flowers and ternately-decompound leaves. It is seldom seen except in botanic gardens. A variety with variegated leaves has been recently introduced. Lewi'sia. Bitter Root. Named after Captain M. Lewis, the American traveler and compan- ion of Clark. Nat. Ord. Portulacaceoz. L. rediviva, the only species, is a succulent perennial, with a fleshy, tapering root. Its leaves are quite succulent, and from their centre arises a strong stalk bearing a solitary rose-colored flower, surrounded by an invo- lucre of five to seven scales. As soon as the flower appears the leaves begin to wither and dry up, usually lasting only a few days, the entire period of the plant's existence above ground not exceeding six weeks. This ex- ceedingly curious plant is a native of the upper Oregon Territory, and its roots, which are largely collected by the Indians, afford a wholesome, though bitter-tasted food, being composed almost entirely of starch. The specific name, rediviva, was given to the plant in consequence of the growth of some dried and apparently dead roots, taken from an her- barium specimen. Leyceste'ria. Named after William Leycester, of the Indian Civil Service. Nat. Ord. Capri- foliacew. L. formosa, the only species, is a very hand- some hardy or half-hardy deciduous shrub, of a rather rambling habit. It is a distinct and interesting plant, bearing its purplish-tinged white flowers in fascicles disposed in whorls of fives and sixes, the whole forming short, leafy, drooping racemes, which terminate the branches and branchlets. It is a native of the temperate Himalayas, whence it was in- troduced in 1824. It is propagated by cut- tings of the young shoots in spring or by seeds. Lho'tzkya. Named after Dr. John Lhotzky, a Viennese botanist who traveled in Australia. Nat. Ord. Myrlacem. A genus of evergreen, Heath-like shrubs, natives of Australia. O. acutifolia (white) and 224 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OE PLANTS LIA G. violacea (purple), the species best known to cultivation, are of easy management, and are propagated by cuttings made of the young shoots, when the base is hardened a little. Lia'tris. Blazing Star. Button Snake Root. Derivation of the name unknown. Nat. Ord. Composites. This genus consists of some twenty species, all hardy herbaceous perennials, common from New York to Kansas and southward. Some of the species are very ornamental border plants. They all produce long spikes of purple flowers from August until October, L. pycnostachya (Kansas Gay Feather), one of the finest of the species, has rosy purple flowers, on a spike three to four feet high. They begin to flower at the top of the spike, and continue to open downward, which is characteristic of the species. They are increased by seed, will flower the second year, and will grow anywhere and bloom well ; the size and length of the spike will, however, be in proportion to the richness of the soil. Liber. The inner lining of the bark Exogens, where alone its woody matter resides. Libe'rtia. Named after Mademoiselle M. A. Liebert de Malmedy, a Belgian lady and bota- nist. Nat. Ord. Iridacece. A small genus of half-hardy bulbs, natives of Australia, Tasmania, New Zealand, and Chili. They are of dwarf habit, with delicate white flowers, which are produced in umbels on a scape one and a half feet high. L. formosa produces spikes of flowers of snowy white- ness more like those of some delicate Orchid than of an out-door plant. L. ixioides and L. Magellanica are also very attractive when in flower. They are increased by offsets ; in- troduced in 1822. Liboce'drus. From libanos, incense, and ce- drus, the cedar ; the wood being fragrant and resembling the cedar. Nat. Ord. Coniferm. This genus consists of handsome evergreen trees, natives of Chili and New Zealand. They are nearly related to the Arbor- Vitas, differing only the form of their cones. They are fine timber trees, growing to an immense size. Spars eighty or ninety feet long, are obtain- able from L. Chilensis, and a single tree often yields as many as 1,500 boards. Its grain, too, is so straight and equal that it can be split into shingles, which look as though they had been dressed with a plane. These trees are not hardy in the Northern States. Libo'nia. Named after M. Libon, a traveler in Brazil. Nat. Ord. Acanthacem. A genus of handsome flowering plants from Brazil. L. floribunda, the only species yet known, is a small suffruticose plant, with elliptic oblong leaves, and very abundant tubular, yellow-tipped scarlet flowers, one or two from each leaf axil. The calyx is five cleft ; the corolla tubular, with an erect bilabiate limb ; two stamens affixed to the middle of the tube, with two-celled cordate- ovate anthers, one cell inserted higher than the other ; disk annulate ; style filiform, with a punctate stigma. The flowers are droop- ing, very abundant, and exceedingly orna- mental. The leaves are apt to drop if the plant is allowed to suffer for water. L. Pen- rhosienais, a seedling from the above, obtained LIC by crossing it with Sericograpis (Jacobinia) Ghiesbrechtiana, is in many respects a decided improvement. The plant is dwarfer and of denser growth ; the' foliage is darker, larger, and more persistent; the flowers are even more abundant, there being from four to six at the axils instead of two, with more red and less yellow; and they make their appearance earlier. These plants should be grown in the green-house, where they will flower from November till Spring. They are also excellent sitting-room plants, and worthy of a place in any collection They grow best in a moder- ately rich loam, and are easily increased by cuttings ; introduced in 1864. This genus is now included by Bentham and Hooker under Jacobinia, but the plants are best known by their former names. Lichens. Lichens, as they are in form among the simplest of plants, so they may be called the pioneers of the vegetable kingdom. They are in general parasitical plants, living upon the bark of trees, or on the moist ground, or even upon the bare rocks. The sporules of the lichen are furnished with a gummy and adhesive fluid, and being scattered about by the winds they fall upon bare rocks, and to these attach themselves. Without soil, and simply from the moisture and from the air, they vegetate and form a small central lichen ; others grow in circles around, till, in process of time, the whole surface of the bare rock becomes covered with a hoary coat. These lichens periodically decay, and mouldering to the earth form with the particles of abraided rock, a soil which is fitted for the reception of other plants further advanced in the scale or organization. Lichens are found at the extreme points of vegetation, on the summits of high mountains, and near the poles, where all other vegetable bodies disappear. In the Arctic regions, the hunters prepare an im- portant article of food from one of the species that is there found in great abundance where there is scarcely a particle of soil, and where the snow rarely disappears. The Iceland Moss. — Cetraria islandica is used as an edible substance by the Icelanders, who rarely obtain corn bread, and whose limited stock of substitutes obliges them to have recourse to every species of vegetable production which is permitted by their in- clement climate to spring forth. The plant is collected by the inhabitants of this northern region ; and after being washed, is cut into pieces, or it is dried by the fire or in the sun, then put into a bag which is well beaten. _ It is ultimately worked into a powder by being trampled on, and in this state is used as food. This lichen contains a nutritious matter called lichen-starch, along with a bitter principle. "When boiled and macerated in water it forms, a nutritious and light jelly, which, with the addition of sugar and milk, has been used as a dietetic medicine in cases of decline, and was fancied at one time as a cure for consumption. The Reindeer Moss. — Cladonia rangiferina grows in great abundance in the north of Europe, especially in Lapland, where it con- stitutes almost the sole winter food of the reindeer, that useful animal, without which the natives of that barren region could not exist. Linnaeus assures us that this lichen AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 225 LIC grows so luxuriantly in Lapland, as to be found sometimes a foot in height. Rocella tinctoria, from which Litmus is obtained, furnishes an excellent dye. Lec- anora esculenta is frequently met with in im- mense quantities in the most arid, desert regions of Asia and north Africa. It occurs in rounded masses about the size of a filbert, and is largely used as food. It possesses too, a peculiar interest, on account of its being supposed, by some commentators, to be the "manna" which fed the children of Israel during their wanderings in the wilderness. Licua'la. The name of the species in the Macassar language. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. A small genus of very elegant palms, allied to Corypha, natives of the East Indies, New Guinea, and northern Australia. L. grandis (Syn. Pritchardia grandis) has fan-shaped, deep, bright green leaves, three feet in diam- eter, borne on long slender petioles two to three feet long. It was discovered in one of the South Sea Islands and takes rank among the most distinct and attractive Palms ever introduced. L. acutifida, has a slender stem, bearing a small head of beautiful, much- parted, fan-like leaves, of an intense green. As an exhibition plant or ornament for the green-house or conservatory, it is highly to be recommended, either when young or in a more mature state. The stems of this plant grow from five to eight feet high, and form the handsome walking canes imported into England under the name of Penang Lawyers. Liebi'gia. Named after Liebig, a celebrated German chemist. Nat. Ord. Gesneracea. A genus of hot-house evergreen plants, allied to Chirita, and requiring the same treatment. They are natives of the East Indies. Lie'tzia. Named after A. Lietze, a nurseryman at Rio Janeiro. Nat. Ord. Gesneracem. L. Brazilensis, the only described species, is a stove-house perennial with a tuberous rhizome. The flowers are green, spotted with brown, and are remarkable for their curious form as well as color. It was introduced from. Brazil in 1880, and is propagated by seeds, tubers, or cuttings. Ligneous. Having the texture of wood ; of or belonging to wood. Lignum. The wood; that central part of a stem which lies beneath the bark, or its equivalent, the cortical integument. Lignum Vitae. See Guaiacum. Ligula'ria. From ligula, a strap; referring to the florets. Nat. Ord. Compositm. A small genus of hardy and half-hardy her- baceous perennials, some of which are of an ornamental character, and are favorite garden plants. They abound in the mountainous regions of Asia, and have been more generally known as species of Cineraria and Senecio. L. Koempferi awreo-maculata, a native of China, and popularly known as Farfugium grande, is a low-growing-broad-leaved plant, remarkable for its shiny, dark-green foliage, which is irregularly blotched with bright yellow, or sometimes with white and rose. It is easily grown, and is a very decorative plant for the border. It requires the protection of the house during winter, and is propagated by division in spring or autumn. LIL Ligulate. Strap-shaped; narrow, moderately long, with the two margins parallel. Ligu'sticum. Named for the country Liguria, where the officinal Lovage, L. Levisticum, abounds. Nat. Ord. Umbelliferm. A genus of about twenty species of glabrous perennial herbs, dispersed over the northern hemisphere. None of the species is worth cultivating. Ligustri'na Amurensis. A synonym of Syringa Amwrensis. Ligu'strum. Privet. From ligare, to tie ; refer- ring to the use made of the flexible shoots. Nat. Ord. Oleaceoz. A genus of hardy, ornamental shrubs, or small trees, natives of tropical Asia, Japan, and Northern Africa. The species are of easy culture in almost any soil or situation, and are especially valuable in the neighborhood of large towns, where a smoky atmosphere pre- vails; in the shade, or under the drip of trees. L. vulgare, the common Privet, is extensively used for hedges in ornamental gardens, owing to its bearing clipping without injury. L. ovalifolium, a native of Japan, commonly known as the California Privet, is one of the hardiest and most floriferous of the genus, and is remarkable for the beauty and persist- ence of its foliage, which is of a dark waxy- green color, and considerably larger than the common Privet. As a single specimen on a lawn, or for grouping in shrubberies, it is of rapid growth and great beauty, while its adaptation as a hedge plant is unsurpassed. L. ovalifolium variegatum is a vigorous, com- pact grower, the young leaves of which have a beautiful yellow tint, passing into white as the leaves get older. All the species are readily increased by cuttings. Lilac. See Syringa vulgaris. Lilia'ceae. Including Hemerocallidece, Tulip- acecE, Coronarioz, Asphodelece, Asparagineoz. and Convallariacem. A natural order of herbs, shrubs, or trees, with bulbs, corms, rhizomes, or fibrous roots, simple, sheathing, or clasping leaves, and regular flowers. They are natives of both temperate and tropical regions,and pos- sess medicinal qualities. Onions, Leeks, Garlic, Chives, Shallot, Rocambole, Tulips, Hyacinths, Lilies, etc., are all furnished by plants belong- ing to this extensive order. There are up- ward of 150 genera and 1,200 species. Lilium, Tulipa, Hyacinthus, Yucca, Agapanthus, Aspho- delus, and Dracama, are examples of the order. Lilium. The Lily. From the Celtic word li, signifying whiteness; the lily having long been considered an emblem of whiteness and purity. Nat. Ord. Liliaceoz. This genus, the type of an extensive order, numbers upward of sixty species, and is emi- nently distinguished for its surpassing loveli- ness, its rare combination of grandeur and chaste beauty. A remarkable feature in this family of plants is, that it has no poor rela- tions. In a general collection of the species, all that can be imagined desirable and perfect in floral forms will be realized. A great inducement to the cultivation of this genus is their ease of culture, and their almost perfect hardiness, thriving with all the vigor of indig- enous forms when planted in the flower bor- der. All of them delight in light rich soil, such as is afforded by a mixture of loam and 226 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS LIL well-rotted manure, and one uniform treat- ment is applicable under all circumstances to the whole of the species ; all may be grown together in the border, and remain undis- turbed a number of years, frequent removals being injurious, by destroying the roots. All the species thrive best when planted in partial shade, the shrubbery border, or in large beds in an open grove. Propagated by offsets. When the old bulbs have several small ones formed around them, take them up in Octo- ber, divide them into single bulbs, and re- plant the large flowering bulbs immediately into fresh, rich earth, where they are to flower. Plant the small bulbs in a bed of the same kind of soil by themselves; let them remain until sufficiently large and strong for flowering, which should require but two years ; then take them up, select the larger bulbs, and plant them where they are to remain, taking care to enrich the earth with well decomposed manure ; the small ones to be replanted as before. L. candidum should be taken up and replanted in August or first part of September, as the bulbs make a growth in autumn, upon which in a great measure depends their flowering the coming season. In selecting the situation for the Lily-bed, care should be taken to have the dryest spot possible, where water is not liable to stand in the winter. A good mulching of leaves, coarse manure, or evergreen boughs will prove highly beneficial. The species are pretty generally distributed throughout the temperate regions of the northern hemi- sphere ; a few only are found in the moun- tains of sub-tropical Asia. California has furnished several that are among the more difficult to cultivate here, because of the dif- ference in the seasons of growth. Japan has furnished by far the greater number of really excellent species, among which are L. aura- ium, or Golden-banded, of which there are many beautiful varieties in cultivation ; L. 8pecio8um and its varieties ; L. Kramerii, L. Leichtlinii, L. Tigrinum jlore pleno, L. Thun- bergianum in variety, L. longiflorum, L. Han- soni, etc. L. candidum, the oldest known species, comes from the Levant. Asia fur- nishes L. Chalcedonicum and L. giganteum; Siberia the beautiful little L. tenuifolium, which is there grown as an article of food. The United States contributes L. superbum, L. Canadense, L. Philadelphicum, L. Catesbcei, L. Carolinianum, and L. Columbianum, to- gether with L. Washinglonianum, L. Hum- boldti, L. parvum, L. Calif ornicum, L. pardali- num, L. Roezlii, L. Parryi and L. Walkerii from California. Most of the other species are found scattered throughout Europe. The great popularity of this flower has induced the growers and dealers to sub-divide the species and multiply varieties to such an extent as to bewilder the amateur in making a selection. A prominent European house offers sixty varieties of L. elegans (L. Thunber- gianum), and nearly as many of L. speciosum (L. lancifolium). L. candidum, the Annuncia- tion, or St. Joseph's Lily, has eight varieties, L. umbellatum about thirty, any one of which would well represent the family. All the species succeed well grown in pots, but sev- eral bear what is termed forcing, or being made to bloom out of their natural season. The principal of these are L. candidum, L. LIL longiflorum, and L. Harrisii. The latter of these, L. Harrisii, or the Bermuda Easter Lily, was introduced into general cultivation about 1878. There is some question whether it is a " sport " from the old Lilium longi- florum, or Trumpet Lily, or whether long years of cultivation in the congenial climate of Bermuda has so changed the nature of the plant as to give it the wonderful free-flower- ing properties it possesses. We are inclined to think the variety is distinct from L. longi- florum, for it is not only more prolific in flow- ering, but the flowers are wider and more robust, a result not to be expected from any temporary cultivation in a climate no matter how congenial. The rules for the cultivation of the Bermuda Easter Lily are almost iden- tical with those in use for Roman Hyacinths, or Lily-of-the-Valley (see Convallaria), except that after the boxes or pots are filled with roots the time for the development of the flower is longer. The dry bulbs, however, usually can be procured as early as the first week in August, and if potted or boxed up at that time, and placed outside, will form roots sufficient to enable them to be brought into the green-house by the first of October, and if kept in a temperature of sixty degrees at night, with ten or fifteen degrees higher during the daytime, will give a crop of flowers by Christmas. The Bermuda Lily is largely used for decoration at Easter, and for that season, beginning to force in January will be soon enough. Lilium longi- florum and L. candidum require exactly the same treatment, except that neither of these can be made to flower so early as the Bermuda Lily. It may be added here that the Californian Lilies often remain a whole year in the ground before growing. Lily. A general name for plants of the genus Lilium, applied also to various other plants. African. Agapanthus umbellatus. Annunciation. Lilium candidum. Atamasco. Zephyranthes Atamasco. Belladonna. Amaryllis Belladonna. Bermuda. Lilium Harrisii. Blackberry. Pardanthus Chinensis. Cape. Crinum Capense. Chequered. Fritillaria Meleagris. Cuban. Scilla Peruviana. Easter. Lilium longiflorum and L. Harrisii. Golden banded. Lilium auratum. Guernsey. Nerine Sarniensis. Jacobean. Sprekelia (Amaryllis) formosissima. Japan. Lilium speciosum. Knight's Star. The genus Hippeastrum. Martagon. Lilium Martagon. Mediterranean. Pancratium maritimum. Of the Amazon. Eucharis Amazonica. Of the Nile. Richardia JEXkopica. Of the Valley. See Convallaria majalis. Of the Valley, Tree. Andromeda floribunda. Orange. Lilium croceum. St. Bruno's. Anthericum Liliastrum. St. James's Cross. Sprekelia formosissima. St. Joseph's. Lilium candidum. Scarborough. Vallota purpurea. Scarlet Martagon. Lilium Chalcedonicum. Swamp. Lilium superbum. Sword. The genus Gladiolus. Tiger. Lilium tigrinum. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 227 LIL Tom Thumb. Lilium tenuifolium. Trumpet, White. Lilium longiflorum. Turban. Lilium Pomponium. Turk's Cap. Varieties of Lilium Martagon. Turk's Cap, American. Lilium superbum. "White Water. See Nymphcea adorata. Yellow Pond. Nuphar advena. Lily-Thorn. The genus Catesbcea. Lima Bean. See Phaseolus lunatus. Limato'des. Name unexplained. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A genus of East Indian terrestrial Orchids, nearly allied to Calanthe. L. rosea is a very beautiful plant. The flowers are from pure white to the deepest pink, produced on a tall spike, which proceeds from the base of the bulb after the foliage has died away. They require the same treatment as the Calanthe. Limbate. Having one color surrounded by an edging of another. Lime. See Fertilisers. Lime, of commerce. See Citrus. Lime Tree, or Linden. See Tilea. Limna'nthemum. Floating Heart ; From limme, a marsh, and anthos, a flower; from the situ- ations where they grow. Nat. Ord. Genti- anacem. A genus of very interesting and beautiful aquatic plants, closely allied to Villarsia, two species of which are occasionally met in ponds from Maine southward. L. lacunosa, is a charming plant having at first sight the appearance of a miniature Water Lily. Its leaves are from one to two inches in diameter, beautifully blotched with brown, giving them an appearance similar to those of the Cycla- men. The flowers are white, about half an inch across, and very curiously borne upon the same stem which bears the leaves. The plant blooms freely all summer, and will grow in either shallow or deep water, and would make a charming plant for the aqua- rium. L. Nymphwoides, a European species is perfectly hardy and produces its bright yellow flowers in great profusion. It is a very beauti- ful hardy aquatic, but somewhat difficult to eradicate when once established. Limna'nthes. From limne, a marsh, and anthos, a flower ; in allusion to the habitat of the plant. Nat. Ord. Geraniaceo3. A small genus of hardy annuals from Cali- fornia. They are of trailing habit, and produce small white, and yellow and white flowers, quite fragrant and neat, but not showy. They come soon into flower after the seed is sown, and a succession of flowers can be kept up by occasional sowings during summer. They are not at all particular as to soil, but prefer a moist situation. Iiimno'bium. American Frog's Bit. From limnobius, living in pools. Nat. Ord. Hydro- charidaceai.. A genus of aquatic plants, floating in stag- nant water, common almost everywhere. Limno'charis. From limne, a pool, and chairo, to delight in ; referring to their habitat. Nat. Ord. Alismacem. A small genus of green-house aquatic plants, with yellow flowers and heart-shaped leaves, natives of Brazil. Two species, L. Plumieri and L. Humboldtii, are in cultiva- tion, and are favorite plants for the aquarium. LIN Limodo 'rum tuberosum. A synonym for Calo- pogon pulchellus. Limo'nia. From limoun, the Arabic name of the Citron. Nat. Ord. Rutacece. A small genus of evergreen shrubs from the East Indies, China and New Holland. L. acidis8ima, typical of the genus, is a spiny shrub growing eight or ten feet high, and having pinnate leaves with winged stalks, and racemes of pure white flowers. The fruit is about the size of a damson plum, yel- low, with a red or purplish tint. The Java- nese employ the extremely acid pulp of these fruits as a substitute for soap. The fruit is also used medicinally. Limonia'strum. From leimon, a meadow, and Aster, a star ; in allusion to the starry flowers, and the habitat of the plants. Nat. Ord. Plumbaginacete. A small genus of nearly hardy shrubs, natives of the western Mediterranean region. They are closely allied to Statice and have the blue flowers and general appearance of some of the more twiggy species of that genus. All the green parts of the plants are covered with white discs of calcareous matter. Limoo. A name used in some of the Pacific Islands for Sea-weed. Lina'ceae. A small natural order of herbs, or shrubs, with entire, sessile, alternate, op- posite, or verticillate leaves, which have oc- casionally a pair of minute glands at the base. Flowers regular and hermaphrodite, usually terminal, blue, yellow or white, rarely pink. Linum usitatissimum, yields the flax and lin- seed of commerce. The order contains four- teen genera, and over 125 species. Lina'ria. Toad Flax. From linum, flax; on account of the similarity of the leaves. Nat. Ord. ScrophulariacecB. A very large genus of hardy annuals, her- baceous perennials, and a few half-hardy and tender species. Many of them are exceed- ingly ornamental. L. cymbalaria is the well- known Kenilworth Ivy, or Coliseum Ivy, a valuable trailing plant, and one of the best for hanging-baskets and rustic designs. There is a very pretty variegated form of this species. L. triornithophora, remarkable for the resemblance of its flowers to three little birds attached to the spur. L. vulgaris, com- monly known as Butter-and-Eggs, was intro- duced into Philadelphia as a garden flower many years ago, and has become thoroughly naturalized, and a perfect nuisance in many parts of the country. When once introduced it takes almost complete possession of the soil, producing an almost innumerable num- ber of seeds, besides its rapid increase by means of its numerous spreading roots. The useful species are all readily increased from seeds. Linco'nia. Said to be a south African name. Nat. Ord. Bruniacece. A genus of ornamental Epacris-like, green- house shrubs, natives of the Cape of Good Hope. The leaves are spirally arranged, and the solitary white flowers are borne in the axils of the upper leaves. They were first introduced in 1816 and require the same culture as the Diosma, which they much re- semble. 228 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS LIN Lindelo'fia. Named in honor of Freidrich von Lindelof, of Darmstadt, a patron of botany. Nat. Ord. Boraginacece. L. spectabilis is a rather showy perennial, growing about one and a half feet high, bearing in early summer, drooping clusters of deep purple-blue flowers. It is hardy in 1 well drained situations, but is not so valuable a plant as many others of the same order. Syn. Cynoglossum longiflorum. Linden. See Tilia. Linde'nia. Named after J. Linden, a Belgian horticulturist. Nat. Ord. Rubiacew. A small genus, natives of Mexico, Central America, and the Fiji Islands. L. rivularis, the only species yet in cultivation, is a dis- tinct plant, with rather small lanceolate leaves, and bearing solitary long-tubed white flowers nearly five inches long, from short spurs. Although the flowers are solitary, the plant is very free-blooming and is remark- ably interesting. It was introduced from Mexico in 1856, and is propagated by cuttings of the ripened wood. Linde'ra. Wild Allspice. Fever Bush. Named after John Under, a Swedish botanist. Nat. Ord. Lauracece. A tall-growing shrub, common in damp woods from New York southward. Syn. Laurus Benzoin. Lindhei'mera. Named in honor of F. Lind- heimer, the discoverer of the plant. Nat. Ord. Compositce. L. texana, the only species is an erect, branching, half-hardy annual, with yellow flowers resembling a Zinnia. Introduced to cultivation from Texas. Li'ndleya. Named after Professor Lindley by Humboldt and Kunth. Nat. Ord. Rosacea. L. mespiloides, the only species, is an orna- mental, low-growing, evergreen tree or shrub, native of the mountainous regions of Mexico. It has simple, crenulate, shining leaves, and solitary, large, white, sweet-scented flowers, borne on the tips of its branchlets. It was in- troduced to cultivation in 1843, and is pro- pagated by cuttings of the ripened wood in heat, or by grafting on the Hawthorn. Lindsse'a. A synonym of Lindsaya, which see. Lindsay'a. Named after Archibald Lindsay, a distinguished English botanist. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. A genus of about fifty species of handsome tropical ferns, most of them difficult to cultivate. Linear. Narrow, short, with parallel margins, as the leaf of the Yew. Ling. Calluna vulgaris, also a Chinese name for Trapa bicornis. Li'nnsea. Twin-Flower. Dr. J. F. Gronovius, with the concurrence of Linnseus, selected this little depressed, early-flowering, long- overlooked northern plant, to transmit the illustrious name of Linnaeus to posterity. Nat. Ord. Caprifoliacew. I L. borealis, the only species, is a beautiful little trailing evergreen plant, with long, slender branches, bearing small ovate or obovate leaves, slightly toothed at the top, and sending up erect, thread-like flower stalks, which fork near the top, and bear two grace- fully drooping, very fragrant bell-like LIP flowers, of a pale pink or nearly white color, and almost half an inch in length. It grows almost exclusively in woods, in cold, moist situations, is common from New Jersey northward, and is widely dispersed over northern Europe and Asia. According to some writers, its scent is so powerful, especi- ally at night, that it may be discovered at a considerable distance. The Laplanders use a decoction of its flowers as a remedy in rheu- matic complaints. Linosy'ris. A genus of Composite, of little horticultural value. L. divaricata, with gol- den-yellow flowers, a native of Australia, is in cultivation as a hardy, herbaceous perennial. L. vulgaris, Goldilocks, is a showy British perennial producing its bright yellow flowers in terminal clusters in late summer and autumn. Syn. Chrysocoma Linosyris. Li'num. Flax. From the Celtic word llin, a thread ; whence the Greek linon, and the Latin linum. Nat. Ord. Linaceae,. This genus contains upward of fifty species of various characters, some rising to be small shrubs, hardy and tender perennials, bien- nials, and annuals; all of them interesting, and many very handsome. The tender species require the ordinary treatment of green-house plants. L. triginum (Syn. Rein- wartia trigina) is one of the most beautiful of all our yellow-flowering shrubby green-house plants ; while L. grandiflorum, one of the best and most showy annuals in cultivation, has magnificent crimson flowers. L. flavum, and all the tall-growing species find a place in the borders, and the dwarf kinds on the rock- work or in the rock-gardens. The latter are somewhat impatient of wet in winter, and in consequence are usually potted in autumn, and kept in a cold-frame during winter. L. usita- tissimum, the common annual Flax, has been an object of cultivation from the earliest times. Mr. B. Clarke thus describes it in the " Treasury of Botany : " " The plant has, for the most part, solitary, quite erect stems, alternate smooth linear-lanceolate leaves, and a corymbose inflorescence ; the sepals are ovate-acute, with a membraneous margin ; and the petals are blue, three times longer than the calyx. The finer kinds of the linen of commerce are manufactured from the ligneous fibres of the stem of this plant ; and the seed, called Linseed, is scarcely less valu- able, on account of the large quantity of oil contained in the embryo. The seeds contain a mucilage, which, dissolved in water, is demulcent and emollient, and the meal of the seed is used for poultices. The cake remain- ing after the oil is expressed, is extensively used in fattening cattle." L. catharticum, re- markable for its erect, much-branched stems, its opposite, smooth, obovate-lanceolate leaves, and small white flowers, is occasionally used in medicine, being bitter and purgative. Lion's Ear. See Leonotis. Lion's Foot. Lion's Tail. See Leontopodium. Leonotis Leonurus. Lipa'ria. From liparos, oily, shining; in allu- sion to the shining surface of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Leguminosai. A genus of south African shrubs with un- divided, alternate, lanceolate leaves, and bright yellow flowers, in terminal heads. L. LILTUM UMBELLATUM. LILIUM CANDIDUM. 2:8 LLUUM WASHINGTONIANUM. LILIUM COLCHICUM. LOLIT/M ITALICUM (ITALIAN BYE-GBASS). LOASA HIBTA. S"**. r .-^>*f^S LOLIUM PEBENNE (ENGLISH BYE-GBASS). LOBELIA (TYPE OF HABDY VABIETIES). LTNUM FLAVUM. LOBELIA (DWARF). AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 229 LIP parva and L. sphcerica, the two species intro- duced, are propagated by cuttings of the young shoots, and thrive best in a compost of turfy loam and fibrous peat. Li'paris. From liparos, unctuous ; referring to the leaves. Nat. Ord. Orchidacem. A small genus of terrestrial and epiphytal Orchids, of no special merit. They have mostly purplish or greenish flowers. Several of the species are common in moist wood- lands in the Middle States and westward. Lip Fern. See CheAlanthes. Li'ppia. In honor of A. Lippi, a French physi- cian. Nat. Ord. Verbenacece. A large genus of shrubs or sub-shrubs, rarely herbs, mostly American, a few being found in Africa. But few of the species are in cultivation. Aloysia citriodora, the Lemon Verbena, is by some, placed in this genus. Iiiquida'mbar. From liquid/as, liquid, and amhar, amber; referring to the gum, called liquid storax, produced by some species. Nat. Ord. HamamelidacecB. A genus of beautiful deciduous trees. L. styraciflua, our common Sweet Gum Tree, is one of our finest forest trees, and one deserv- ing more general cultivation on the lawn, and lor a shade tree upon the roadsides. It is a tall, erect-growing tree of elegant appearance, especially in autumn, when its beautiful star- shaped leaves which are very fragrant when bruised, or after a shower when young, change to a bright red, quite as conspicuous as those of the Maple, and remain on the tree much longer. This is the tree whose rough, corky-ridged branches, are sold in the streets of New York as the " Alligator Plant." These pieces of stick are sold by the thousands every season at from twenty-five to fifty cents each, to unsophisticated city men, with about as much chance of growing as their fence pickets. There are several other species, one from the Levant, and the others of late introduction from Formosa, one or more of which furnish the wood used by the Chinese to make the chests in which they export their tea. They are increased by seeds. Liquid Manures. See Manures. Liquorice. See Glycyrrhiza. Liriode'ndron. Tulip Tree. From leinrion, a lily, and dendron, a tree ; the flower produced by this tree bears some resemblance to a Lily, but is more like a Tulip. Nat. Ord. MagnoliaceoB. L. tulipifera, the only species, is one of our most beautiful forest trees, and has no superior for a shade tree where there is plenty of room for its perfect development. It is common from Canada to Louisiana in rich woodlands, where it sometimes attains a height of 200 feet, with a trunk as straight as an arrow. Its flowers which are of the size and shape of Tulips, and very fragrant, are produced in June in the greatest abundance. Color greenish white, variegated with yellow and orange. There are two varieties of the species, one of which furnishes white, the other yellowish lumber. The former is of but little value to the mechanic, but the latter is highly esteemed for cabinet work, for boat- building and especially in the manufacture of wooden pumps, wooden-ware, etc. ; it is also largely used for carriage bodies. Lirioden- LIT drin, a stimulant tonic, with diaphoretic properties, is obtained by macerating the inner bark, especially the root. It is propa- gated by seeds sown as soon as ripe. Li'riope graminifolia. A synonym of Ophio- pogon spicatum. Lisia'nthus. From lysis, the termination of a disease, and anthos, a flower ; referring to its intense bitterness and medicinal properties. Nat. Ord. Gentianacece. This genus is composed of green-house an- nuals and evergreens, mostly of little merit as flowering plants, the exception being L. princeps, an evergreen shrub from New Grenada, that has long hanging flowers of a rich scarlet, shading into yellow at either end, and having an emerald green, five-lobed limb. This species is propagated by cuttings, and was introduced in 1848. L. Russelliamis (Syn. Eustoma Russellianum), an annual or biennial from Mexico, is another very pretty species with rich blue flowers shaded with purple. It is propagated only by seeds. Lissa'nthe. From lissos, smooth, and anthos, a flower ; in reference to the limb of the corolla being destitute of hairs. Nat. Ord. Epa- cridacecB. A genus of small, rigid shrubs, sometimes not more than three or four inches high,and sel- dom exceeding five feet, having small needle- pointed leaves, and small, usually white flow- ers, borne in short spikes from the sides of the branches. L. sapida, a native of south-eastern Australia, is called the Australian Cranberry, on account of its resemblance both in size and color to the European Cranberry, but its flesh is thin, and more like that of the Siberian Crab. The fruits of L. strigosa, and L. Mon- tana are eaten in Tasmania, the latter being a very dwarf mountain species, bearing large, white, transparent, fleshy fruits. Lissochi'lus. From lissos smooth, and cheilos, a lip ; in allusion to the lip of the flower. Nat. Ord. Orchidacem. A genus of terrestrial Orchids from Africa, producing racemes of rather showy flowers from the base of the pseudo-bulbs. The species are not very numerous, and the few are only met with in large collections. Li'stera. Twayblade. Dedicated to Dr. Martin Lister, an early British naturalist. Nat. Ord. Orchidacem. A small genus of terrestrial Orchids, bearing slender spikes of small green flowers, of no special interest except in botanical collections. The several species are common throughout the United States. Lita'nthes. From litos, small, and anthos, a flower ; because of the extremely small size of the plant. Nat. Ord. LiliacecB. L. pusillus, the only species, is an exceed- ingly small bulbous plant, having a bulb about the size of a pea. The flowers are small, white, solitary and drooping. It was intro- duced from South Africa in 1870, and forms a pretty object when grown in clumps in a pot. Lithospe'rmum. Gromwell. From lithos, a stone, and sperma, a seed ; the little nuts or seeds are extremely hard, and have a surface as smooth as polished pebbles. Nat. Ord. Boraginacem. 230 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS LIT Annual and perennial herbs, and sometimes shrubs, of easy culture. Some of the species are well adapted for rock-work and for the border. L. prostratum is, unquestionably, one of the most beautiful of spring-flowering per- ennials, when it succeeds properly. A light, well-drained soil is necessary to have it in perfect health. It is a prostrate, half-shrubby plant, with rich, deep-blue flowers, resembling those of the Forget-me-not, and succeeds best in a light, well-drained soil. It is a native of southern Europe, and was introduced in 1825, and is easily increased by seeds or cuttings. Litmus. A blue dye prepared from Rocella tinctoria, and some other Lichens. It is of great importance to chemists, as it affords a delicate test for acids and alkalies, since blue litmus paper acquires from acids a red tint, which is restored by alkalies. Litobro'chia. A commemorative name. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. An extensive genus of tropical Ferns, dif- fering from Pteris only in the reticulation of the veins of the fronds. Li'tsaea. From the Japanese name. Nat. Ord. Lauracece. A large genus of half-hardy or green-house shrubs or trees, natives of the Malayan Archi- pelago to Japan, Australia, New Zealand, etc. L. glauca and L. Japonica, both Japanese spe- cies, are handsome bushes for green-house or conservatory decoration. Littae'a. Under this name Tagliabue, an Italian botanist, described a South American Agave, which flowered for the first time in Europe in the garden of the Duke of Litta, near Milan, in 1815, but which now bears the name of Agave geminiftora. Litto'nia. Named after Dr. S. Litton, once Professor of Botany at Dublin. Nat. Ord. LiliacecB. A genus comprising only only two species of South African plants. They are half-climbing in habit, bearing showy orange-colored flow- ers. L. modesta, the only species yet intro- duced, is an elegant green-house plant, very like Gloriosa in habit and appearance. Littoral. Growing on the sea-shore. Lituate. Forked, with the points a little turned outward. Live-Forever. See Sedum. Live Oak. See Quercus virens. Liver-Leaf. The popular name of Hepatica triloba, from a supposed resemblance of the leaves. Livistona. Named in honor of Patrick Murray, of Livingston, near Edinburgh, Scotland. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. A genus of very interesting and ornamental Palms, natives of southern China, the Malayan Archipelago, New Guinea, and Australia. Two of the species attain a height of from ninety to one hundred feet ; the remaining species rarely exceed thirty or forty feet in height. L. Australia, also called Corypha Australis, is one of the few palms found in Australia, and is principally found along the coast, and is the tallest of the species. Its unexpanded leaves, prepared by being scalded and then dried in the shade, are used for making hats, while the younger and more tender leaves are eaten like cabbages. It is very largely grown for LOB decorative purposes in all the large cities of the United States. In Assam the leaves of L. Jenkinsiana are used for making the peculiar umbrella hats worn in that country. L. altis- 8ima, introduced from Java in 1868, is a very beautiful species now largely used as a sum- mer decorative plant. L. Chinensis (Syn. Latania Borbonica), under which name it is generally cultivated, is a well-known and very handsome Palm and makes a very beautiful plant for the lawn in summer. When grown in tubs or large pots, this Palm is one of the best suited and most largely used for the decoration of hotel verandas; thousands are now in use for that purpose. Exceedingly fine specimens of this beautiful Palm are now growing in the Botanic Gardens at Washing- ton. Several other species are in cultivation and they are all admirably adapted for various decorative purposes, and especially for the sub-tropical garden. They are propagated by seeds sown in heat. Lizard's Tail. The common name for Saururus cernuus. Lla'vea. In honor of M. La Llave, the dis- coverer of the only known species. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. L. cordifolia, the only species, is a very interesting Fern, found in the higher eleva- tions of Mexico. It requires the same treat- ment as most green-house Ferns. Lloy'dia. Named after Edward Lloyd, who first discovered the plant in North Wales. Nat. Ord. Liliacea. A small genus of two species of bulbous plants, the best known of which, L. serotina, has white, solitary, erect flowers, veined ex- ternally with green. It is found on the rocky ledges of the Snowdon range in Wales, and the mountains and Arctic regions of the Northern hemisphere. Syn. Anthericum sero- tinum. Loa'sa. The native name in South America. Nat. Ord. Loasacecs. A genus of very curious climbing or creep- ing plants, of annual or biennial duration, having yellow, white, or scarlet flowers. The seed should be sown in March in a gentle heat, and after being gradually hardened the plants may be removed to the borders of the flower-garden. The leaves of all the species have more or less of the irritating qualities of the common Stinging Nettle. They are all natives of Chili, and were introduced in 1822. Loasa'ceae. A natural order of herbs, with rigid or stinging hairs, opposite or alternate, exstipulate leaves, and showy flowers, natives of tropical and sub-tropical America. The species are of little economic value ; some of them, from their stinging qualities are called Chili Nettles. There are about ten genera and 100 species, Loasa being the best known. Lobate. Lobed; divided into a number of segments. Lobately-crenate. Having deep crenatures, or indentations. Lobe. A rounded projection or division of a leaf or other organ. Lobe'lia. Named in honor of Matthew Lobel, author of various botanical works. He was a AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 231 LOB native of Lille, became physician and botanist to James I., and died in London in 1816. Nat Ord. Campanulacece. An extensive and varied group of interest- ing plants. The genus consists of over eighty species, many of which are highly ornamental and useful in the garden and in the green- house. L. erinus and its varieties are trailers, and remarkable for their profusion of beauti- ful blue flowers. They are usually treated as annuals, and grown from seed, but succeed well when grown from cuttings. This species was introduced from the Cape of Good Hope in 1752, and from it have sprung numerous varieties, running through all shades of blue rose, lilac, etc. A very pretty double blue variety was originated in 1870. L. cardinalis, Cardinal Flower, a native species, common throughout the States, is one of the most brilliant flowers in cultivation. Though usually found in moist places, it will grow well in the border, and is one of our best plants to grow on the shady side of the house. L. syphilitica, another species common to our brook and river sides, has beautiful blue flowers, and is well worthy of cultivation. L. inflata (Indian Tobacco), an annual species, common in the Northern States, is, perhaps, the best known of the whole family, because of the medicinal properties it was formerly supposed to possess. It is still largely used in medicine, but is not now considered a spe- cific for every disease that flesh and blood are heirs to. Lobelia'ceae. A tribe of Campanulacece. Lobel's Catchfly. See Silene armeria. Loblolly Bay. See Gordonia. Lobster-Leaved Cactus. See Epiphyllum. Loco. See Astragalus. Locular. Divided into cells. Locust Tree. The common name for the genus Robinia; also used for Ceratonia Siliqua, and Hymenaza. Locust Tree. Of Scripture, or St. John's Bread. See Ceratonia. Loddige'sia. Named after Conrad Loddiges, founder of a once celebrated London nursery. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. L. oxalidifolia, the only species is a much- branched evergreen shrub, with trifoliate leaves, and bearing pinkish flowers, with a dark purple keel, borne in three to eight- flowered umbels in June. It was introduced from the Cape of Good Hope in 1802, and is easily increased by cuttings in April. Lodoi'cea. Coco de Mer. Double Cocoanut. Named after Laodice, the daughter of Priamus and Hecuba. Nat. Ord. Palamcece. L. Seychellarum, the only species of this genus, is one of the most remarkable of the order. It is found only on the islands Praslin and Curiense of the Seychelles group. This Palm has a nearly cylindrical trunk, scarcely exceeding a foot in diameter, grows to the height of one hundred feet, and bears a crown of fan-shaped leaves, some of which are up- ward of twenty feet long and twelve feet wide. Many marvelous stories are told of this tree, its fruit, and its uses. We give the descrip- tion and history of this Palm, which is far more wonderful than fiction, in the language of Thomas Moore, F.L.S., as related in the LOI "Treasury of Botany:" "This magnificent Palm requires a great length of time to arrive at maturity. The shortest period before it puts forth its flower-buds is thirty years, and a hundred years elapse before it attains its full growth. From the age of fifteen to twenty-five years it is in its greatest beauty, the leaves at this period being much larger than they are subsequently. The stem grows quite upright, straight as an iron pillar, and in the male trees frequently attains 100 feet in height, the females being shorter. At the age of thirty it first puts forth its blos- soms, the males forming enormous catkins, about three feet in length and three inches in diameter, while the females are set on a strong zig-zag stalk, from which hang four or five, or sometimes as many as eleven nuts, averaging about forty pounds weight each. From the time of flowering to the maturation of the fruit, a period of nearly ten years elapses, the full size, however, being attained in about four years, at which time it is soft and full of a semi-transparent, jelly-like sub- stance. The arrangements provided by nature for the roots of this tree are of a most peculiar kind. The base of the stem is rounded, and fits into a natural bowl or socket about two and a half feet in diameter and eighteen inches in depth ; this bowl is pierced with hundreds of small oval holes about the size of a thimble, with hollow tubes corresponding on the outside, through which the roots pene- trate the ground on all sides, never, however, becoming attached to the bowl, their partial elasticity affording an almost imperceptible but very necessary ' play ' to the parent stem when struggling against the force of violent gales. This bowl is of the same substance as the shell of the nut, only much thicker. It rots very slowly, for it has been found quite perfect and entire in every respect sixty years after the tree has been cut down." Losse'lia. Named after John Lcesel, author of " Flora Prussica." Nat. Ord. Polemoniacew. A genus of glabrous, slightly viscid shrubs or herbs, natives of Mexico, Central America, and New Grenada. The flowers are axillary, scarlet or white, the upper ones often crowded at the apices of the branches ; leaves alternate or opposite, undivided, often acutely toothed. L. coccinea, a very showy scarlet species, is generally found under the name of Hoitzia coccinea. They are easily increased by cut- tings. Loga'nia. A genus comprising about twenty Australian species, and one from New Zealand, all herbs or small shrubs, of no particular interest, either as useful or ornamental plants. It has given its name to the order Loganiacem. Logania'ceee. A natural order of herbs, shrubs, or trees, of variable habit, closely allied to Rubiacem. They inhabit chiefly tropical countries, and are bitter and highly poisonous, both in bark and seeds. The Poison-Nut, Strychnos nux-vomica, belongs to this order. There are about thirty genera, and 350 species. Spigelia, Strychnos, and Logania are the most easily recognized examples. Logwood. See Havmatoxylon. Loiseleu'ria. Alpine Azalea. Named for Loise- leur Deslongchamps, a French botanist. Nat. Ord. Ericaceae. HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS LOL L. procumbens, the only species, is a trail- ing evergreen shrub with small elliptical leaves, and terminal clusters of small rose- colored or white flowers. It is found on the summits of the White Mountains in New Hampshire, in the most rocky situations. Lo'lium. Rye Grass. The old Latin name used by Virgil and Pliny. Nat. Ord. Gramin- acecB. A widely distributed genus of grasses, the most important of which, in agricultural economy, is L. perenne, commonly called Rye- grass, which has had the reputation in Great Britain, for many years, of being one of the most important and valuable of the cultivated grasses. The leaves are generally abundant and luxuriant on rich moist soil, but on poorer, light and gravelly soils they are often so scanty as to render the grass of little value either for hay or pasturage. This differ- ence of development in various situations, will, in a great degree, account for the differ- ence of opinion that exists in regard to the value of this grass for agricultural purposes. L. Italicum. Italian Rye Grass, a variety of the above is considered in England one of their best grasses to cut for soiling, as it affords a large and nutritive crop. L. temulentum. Darnel, is an annual grass closely allied to the Rye-grass, and is remark- able as the only species of the family known to possess poisonous properties. It is a com- mon weed among other grains, especially wheat, throwing up a stem two or three feet high, bearing a spike somewhat resembling that of the other species. The seeds of this grass are extremely deleterious, acting as a narcotic poison and, if taken in small quanti- ties for a long period together, causing a peculiar disease called dry gangrene, resem- bling that occasioned by the ergot of rye. The bad reputation of this species has prej- udiced that of the other, and useful species. The "Tares" of Scripture are supposed to refer to this species. Loma'ria. From loma, an edge ; referring to the position of the spore or seed cases on the leaves. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. An extensive and interesting genus of Ferns, including hardy, green-house, and hot-house species. They occur in most parts of the world, and comprise examples with simple pinnatifid and pinnate fronds, while one spe^ cies, L. Fraseri, has a slender, tree-like stem, and bi-pinnatifid fronds, but it is quite excep- tional in the genus. L. Gibba, a dwarf species, is largely grown for decoration. They are all of easy culture and are propagated by spores. Loma'tia. From loma, an edge ; referring to the winged edge of the seeds. Nat. Ord. Pro- teacecB. A small genus of South American and Australian evergreen shrubs or small trees, with simple pinnate and bipinnate leaves of a leathery texture. A few of the species are grown in collections of plants with variegated or ornamental foliage. They require ordinary green-house treatment, and are propagated by cuttings. Lomatophy'llum. From loma, lomatos, a border, and phyllon, a leaf ; alluding to the distinctly- bordered leaves. Nat. Ord. Liliacea. A small genus of green-house succulent plants, allied to Aloe. L. Aloiflorum, or Bour- LOP bon Aloe, the only species in cultivation, has smooth leaves nearly three feet long, and two to three inches broad. The stems in old speci- mens measure about eight feet high, and are nearly as thick as a man's thigh. It was introduced from the Island of Bourbon in 1766 under the name of Phylloma aloiflorum. Lombardy Poplar. See Populus. Lo'nas. Derivation unknown. Nat. Ord. Com- posite. L. inodora, the only species, is a hardy, erect, branched, annual herb, thriving in any ordinary garden soil. It produces its small yellow flowers in dense, terminal-crowded corymbs from July to October. Lonchi'tis. From louche, a lance ; alluding to the shape of the fronds. Nat. Ord. Polypo- diacece. A small genus comprising two species of plant-stove ferns. L. pubescens, an introduc- tion from the Mauritius has deltoid, tri-pin- natifid fronds, two to four feet long, with marginal sori, placed in the sinuses of the fronds, and more or less distinctly reniform. Lonchoca'rpus. From louche, a lance, and karpos, a fruit ; in allusion to the shape of the pods. Nat. Ord. Leguminosw. An extensive genus of ornamental shrubs, natives of tropical America, Africa and Australia. L. roseus, probably the only species yet introduced, has erect, simple racemes of large, showy, rose-colored flowers. It was introduced from South America in 1700, and is propagated by cuttings of the half-ripened young wood. London Pride. See Saxifraga umbrosa. Long Moss. See Tillandsia. Long Purples. Shakespeare's name for Orchis mascula. Long-tailed Ornithogalum. See Ornithogalum. Loni'cera. Honeysuckle. Named after Adam Lonicer, a German botanist, who died in 1596. Nat. Ord. Caprifoliacem. An extensive genus of climbing and upright shrubs, inhabiting both the Eastern and the Western Hemispheres, and much cultivated for the sake of ornament and the fragrance of their flowers. L. sempervirens, Trumpet Honeysuckle, a handsome climbing plant with sub-evergreen foliage and scarlet flowers, is a native species, common from New York to Florida, and is one of the most ornamental of the genus. L. Halleana, from Japan, one of the best of the climbing species, is a very rapid and free grower and blooms all summer, and L. brachypoda aurea reticulata, also from Japan, is prized for the beauty of its variegat- ed foliage. L. Tartarica, Tartarian Honey- suckle, makes an ornamental shrub growing from six to eight feet high, of compact habit, and is profusely covered with flowers in May, and with orange-colored berries during sum- mer. All the species are worthy of cultiva- tion, and are readily increased by layers, cuttings, or from seed. Looking-Glass Tree. A name given to Her- itiera littoralis. Loosestrife. See Lysimachia. Lope'zia. Named in honor of J. Lopez, a Spanish botanist. Nat. Ord. Onagracea,. AND GENEKAL HORTICULTURE. 233 LOP This is a genus of very handsome plants, distinguished by having two filaments, of which one bears an anther, and the other is petal-like and abortive. The seed vessel is four-valved, four-celled, and many seeded. The species are all natives of Mexico, bearing alternate, rarely opposite toothed leaves, and terminal racemes of small purple or red flowers. The biennials are green-house plants. The seeds of the annuals may be sown early, in a hot-bed or in the green-house, and transplanted when they have made a couple of leaves. They make very pretty standard when trained and pinched during the summer. On the approach of cold weather they should be brought into the green-house, where they will flower handsomely during the winter. L. coronata, the Mosquito plant intro- duced in 1804, is one of the best known species, and is easily increased by cuttings, or by seeds. Lopha'nthus. Giant Hyssop. From lophos, a crest, and anthos, a flower ; in allusion to the crested lip of the corolla. Nat. Ord. Labiatce. A genus of hardy plants, with the habit of Nepeta, natives of the northern United States and eastern Asia. They are all hardy peren- nials and grow well in any soil. Lophi'ola. A diminutive of lophos, a crest ; re- ferring to the crested sepals. Nat. Ord. Hcemodoracem. L. aurea, the only species, is a pretty, slender, hardy herbaceous plant with yellow flowers, densely woolly on the outside. It succeeds best in a peaty soil in a damp situ- ation, and will grow and flower well in pots placed in pans of water; it is increased by division of the roots. Iiophospe'rmum. From lophos, a crest, and aperma, a seed ; the seeds are furnished with a crested wing. Nat. Ord. Scrophulariacece. Handsome green-house climbers, bearing numerous large rosy-purple flowers. They are also adapted for the open air, and flower well when trained against a wall or fence hav- ing a south aspect in the flower garden, de- lighting in an airy position, with rteh earth to grow in. Seed is also produced plentifully in such positions ; and when this is secured it saves the trouble of preserving plants through the winter, as, if it is sown early in March, in heat, and brought forward in pots, the young plants bloom quite as soon, and are generally more vigorous than those which have been kept from the preceding year. L. scandens, the species best known, is a native of Mexico, and was introduced in 1834. Lop-seed. Phryma leptostachya. Loquat or Japan Medlar. Photinia (Eriobo- trya) Japonica. Lorantha'ceee. A natural order of evergreen shrubs with articulated branches, opposite, exstipulate, fleshy leaves, and hermaphro- dite, or unisexual flowers, parasitic on the wood of other trees. Natives chiefly of the equinoxial regions of Asia and America, but a few are European and African. The fruit of this order contains bird-lime, a peculiar vis- cous, tenacious, and elastic substance. Mis- tletoe, Viscum album, was formerly worshipped by the Gauls ; it was also held sacred by the Druids. The False Mistletoe, Phoradendron Jlavescens, is our native species, so much in LOX demand for holiday decorations. There are about thirteen genera, and five hundred spe- cies. Lorate. Shaped like a thong or strap. Lord Anson's Pea. Lathyrus Magellanicus. Lords and Ladies. Arum maculatum. Lo'reya. Named after M. Lorey, a French botanist and author of a " Flora of Burgundy," 1825. Nat. Ord. Melastomacece. A small genus of ornamental trees, natives of northern Brazil and Guiana. L. arbores- cens, probably the only species yet introduced, has white flowers borne in cymose panicles, followed by a yellow edible berry, very like a medlar. Lorope'talum. From loron, a thong, and peta- lon, a petal ; referring to the long, thong-like petals. Nat. Ord. HamamelidacecB. L. Chinenae, the only species, is a very orna- mental, free-flowering, hardy shrub, intro- duced from the Khasia Mountains, and China, in 1889. The flowers are white, disposed in terminal, crowded, six to eight flowered heads, It thrives in very rich, light soil, and is pro- pagated by seeds or cuttings. Lo'tus. From Lotos of Theophrastus ; the true Lotus is Zizyphus Lotus. Nat. Ord. Legumm- 08CB. An extensive genus of hardy annuals and herbaceous perennials, a few of which are ornamental and are sometimes cultivated in the borders. L. corniculatus, the Bird's-foot Trefoil, with its double-flowered form, are very handsome, dwarf, herbaceous plants with bright yellow flowers, well-suited for the rock garden. L. Jacobmus, a green-house plant, has flowers more nearly black than almost any known flower. It forms a neat bush and is easily increased by cuttings. Several of the species are forage plants. Lotus, Egyptian. Nymphea Lotus. Lousewort. One of the vulgar names of Pedir cularis Canadensis ; also called Wood Betony. Lovage. Ligusticum Scoticwm. Love-Apple. A name formerly used for the Tomato. Love Grass. A popular name for the genus Eragrostis, which see. Love-in-a-Mist. Nigella Damascena. Love-in-idleness. Viola tricolor. Love-lies-bleeding. See Amaranthus caudatus. Love-Tree. A name sometimes given to the Judas-tree, Cercis Siliquastrum. Lo'wea. Named after the Rev. Mr. Lowe, of the University of Cambridge. Nat. Ord. Rosacea. L. berberidifolia, the only species, is a very singular and rare plant, native of northern Persia, and the Soongari desert, first de- scribed by Pallas, and by him referred to Rosa, in which genus it is now replaced. It is a neat little shrub, with yellow rose-like flowers, with a purple spot at the base of each petal, and simple obovate-cuneate ser- rated glaucous foliage. It agrees perfectly in the character of its flowers with Rosa, but differs strikingly in its foliage, and is seldom seen excepting in botanical collections. Loxoco'ccus. From loxos, oblique, and cokkos, a berry ; oblique-fruited. Nat. Ord. Palmacew. 234 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OP PLANTS LOX L. rupicola, the only species, is an elegant stove-house Palm, introduced from Ceylon in 1878. It has spreading pinnate leaves, five to six feet long and three to four feet wide, bear- ing twelve to twenty pairs of spreading, some- what recurved pinnules. It is still rare, and flowered for the first time in England, at Kew, in the spring of 1878. Loxso'ma. From loxos, oblique, and soma, a body; the sporangia are girt by an incomplete ring. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacew. L. Cunninghami, the only species, is a rare and beautiful Fern with decompound, coriace- ous, long-stalked fronds, glaucous beneath ; the sori are marginal, and have a short, broad, incomplete oblique ring, opening vertically. It is a native of New Zealand, and is of easy cul- ture in a cool green-house. Lucerne. See Medicago. Lucid, Lucidus. Bright, shining, i Lucu'lia . Luculi Swa is the name given to the tree by the Nepalese. Nat. Ord. Rubiacece. The two species forming the genus are among the finest winter-flowering plants we possess, as, when well grown, they become covered with large heads of lovely pink flowers. The plants should be placed when young in large pots, well drained, and filled with fibrous loam. The encouragement of a slight bottom heat and a rather elevated humid atmosphere will induce them to grow with vigor. It is best, in this early stage of their development, to stop the shoots once or twice, so as to form handsome specimens, and when the growth is nearly complete, they should be removed to the green-house to mature it and form their flowers, which are usually unfolded about the end of autumn, and with a little care may be preserved for a long period. L. gratissima is the best known species, and should find a place in every col- lection. It bears numerous cymes of reddish- pink flowers, which are very fragrant. There are few more beautiful plants than this when in bloom, and it should be more generally grown. It does well in a loamy soil, to which leaf mould and sand have been added. The species are natives of Nepal, and were intro- duced in 1823. Although it is possible to prop- agate Luculias from cuttings, it is by no means a successful method, unless the con- ditions under which the cuttings are placed regarding shade and temperature are just suitable to their requirements. Seedling plants grow fast, if properly attended to, but seldom bear flowers before the second or third year. Lucu'ma, The Peruvian name of one the species. Nat. Ord. Sapotacece. A large genus of lactescent trees and shrubs, natives of South America and the West Indies, a few being found in Australia and New Caledonia. L. Mammosa, the Mar- malade Plum bears a very luscious, large oval or top-shaped fruit of a russet color. It was introduced in 1739, and is perhaps the only species in cultivation. Luddema'nnia. Complimentary to M. Ludde- mann. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. L. Pescatorei, the only species, was formerly called Cycnoches Pescatorei. It is a native of South America. The flower spike is pendu- lous, very long, producing thirty to forty buff- LUP yellow flowers, brown inside, with the sepals and lip bright yellow. This species is in- creased by division, and should be grown in a basket in moss. Lu'ffa. From louff, the Arabic name. Nat. Ord. CucurbitacexB. A curious genus of ornamental gourds, na- tives of the warm regions of the globe, one being indigenous to America. The long green fruits when ripe, form inside a tough fibrous mass which, when the seeds and shell are removed, is used for bathing purposes, and for scouring cooking utensils. Hence, some of the species are called Sponge Gourds, and Dish-rag Plants. Lu'hea. Named after C. Vander Luke, a Ger- man botanist, who wrote on the plants of the Cape of Good Hope. Nat. Ord. Tiliacem. A small genus of handsome stove-house trees, allied to Sparmannia. L. paniculata, probably the only species yet introduced, has broad-ovate blunt leaves, unequally serrate and cordate at the base, and rosy-white flow- ers borne in leafy cymes at the tips of the branches. It is a very pretty plant, thriving well in a mixture of peat and loam, and is increased by cuttings of the nearly ripened wood, in sand. In Brazil the bark of this species is used in tanning leather. Luna'ria. Moonwort, Honesty. From luna, the moon ; referring to the shape of the seed- vessels. Nat. Ord. Cruciferce. Of this old garden plant there are but two species. One a hardy biennial. L. biennis, with blue and white, and white flowers, is interesting for its large oval, silvery seed pouches, which are quite ornamental, and are much used in bouquets of dried Ferns and Grasses, as they last a long time if kept dry. The seeds of this species should be sown in early summer for flowering the next year. It is a native of Germany, and is mentioned by the earliest botanical writers. The other species is a hardy herbaceous perennial of but little merit. Lunate, Lunulate. Shaped like a half-moon; crescent-shaped. Lungwort. See Pulmonaria. Lupine. See Lupinus. Lupi'nus. Lupine. From lupus, a wolf; de- vastates land as a wolf does the fold ; liter- ally, destroyer. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. A genus of herbaceous annuals and peren- nials, which contains some of our most beauti- ful border flowers; yellow, blue, white and and pink Lupines are among the oldest of our cultivated border annuals. L. nanus is a beautiful little annual, with dark blue flowers, a native of California, and requires the usual treatment of Californian annuals. L. rnuta- bilis and L. Cruikshankii are splendid plants, growing to the height of four or five feet, and branching like miniature trees. L. polyphyllus and its varieties are perennials, and they are splendid, vigorous-growing plants, with spikes of flowers from one foot to eighteen inches in length; L. Nootkatensis is a hand- some dwarf perennial, and L. arboreus, when trained against a wall, will attain six feet in height, and in sheltered situations it will grow with equal vigor when trained as a bush tied to a stake ; L. latifolius is a peren- AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 235 LUR nial from California with very long spikes of blue flowers. Lurid. Of a dingy brown ; gray with orange. Luxembu'rgia. In honor of the Duke of Lux- emburg, under whose patronage M. Auguste de St. Hilaire commenced his botanical re- searches in Brazil. Nat. Ord. Ochnacecs. A genus of very showy, branched, very glabrous shrubs, bearing racemes of bright yellow flowers, blossoming during the sum- mer months. They were first introduced from Brazil in 1840, and are propagated by cuttings of the half-ripened shoots. Lu'zula. From the Gramen Luzuloe, of Bauhin, Glow-worm Grass. Nat. Ord. Juncacece. A genus of herbaceous perennial plants, of but little beauty, allied to the Rushes. They are common throughout the United States. From their being usually found in dry grounds and woods, they are commonly known by the name Woodrush. Luzuria'ga. Named in honor of Ignatio de Lio- zuriaga, a Spanish botanist. Nat. Ord. Lilia- cece. A small genus of green-house evergreen climbing shrubs, somewhat resembling the Lapageria, to which they are closely allied. The flowers are white, and are produced in great abundance. L. radicans is a very pretty Smilax-like plant with delicate leafage and neat white flowers. It is valuable for green- house culture, and general decorative pur- poses, and is propagated by cuttings. Syn. Callixene. Lyca'ste. Named after a beautiful woman of Sicily. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. Very handsome epiphytes of the pseudo- bulbous class. They grow with freedom when potted in a well-drained mixture of turfy- peat and sphagnum, interspersed with which should be a considerable number of small pieces of charcoal or potsherds. Being natives of the Western Hemisphere, the species do not require a very high tempera- ture, that of an ordinary green-house being fully sufficient ; neither do they require so decided a rest as some other individuals of the order, but should be freely supplied with both water and air when growing. There . are about twenty-five species in this genus, all natives of Central and South America. First introduced in 1828. Ly' chnis. From lychnos, a lamp ; referring to the brilliancy of the flowers of some of the species. Nat. Ord. Caryophyllacece. A group of very ornamental herbaceous plants, quite hardy, and deserving a place in every garden. The species vary in character very much, some of them attaining a height of three or four feet, as in the case of the common Scarlet Lychnis (L. Chalcedonica), an old garden favorite from Russia, valuable because there are so few flowers of that color among our hardy herbaceous plants. There is a fine double variety of this species, also a double and single white. L. Haageana, a brilliant scarlet garden hybrid is also a very desirable variety. Many others are low-grow- ing, not more than six inches in height. L. grandiflora, and L. fulgens are very handsome, and the very pretty L. cadi-rosea should be included in the list of annuals for every gar- den. L. Sennas introduced from Japan in LYC 1865, is beautifully striped white and crim- son. The rosy-red and white varieties of the " German Catch-fly," L. viscaria, are most showy and desirable hardy herbaceous plants, more especially the form with double dark red flowers known as L. v. splendens, which is used with good effect as an edging plant, about Paris. They are all easily propagated by seed or by division. Ly'cium. Box Thorn. From lycion, a name given by Dioscorides to a thorny shrub, and applied to the genus because of its containing some thorny shrubs. Nat. Ord. Solanacece. There are numerous species in this genus, all hardy or green-house shrubs, mostly of little value as ornamental plants. L. barba- rum is a plant of rapid growth, green foliage, and small lilac flowers. It is a climber, and is grown considerably in England to cover trellises and arbors. It is commonly called Tea Plant, and its leaves have been recom- mended as a substitute for tea. L. Carolinia- num, a handsome shrub, is common in the swamps from Carolina to Florida. L. vul- gare, a native of Europe, and an escape from our gardens into the hedge rows and waste places in some of the States, is popularly known as Matrimony Vine. Lycope'rdon. From lykos, a wolf, and perdo, to explode backwards; some old writers believed that this fungus developed from the dung of the wolf. A genus of Fungi, known also as " Puff-balls." While white and fleshy they are edible. L. giganteum, a species that grows so large as to suffice for a meal for ten or twelve persons, is esteemed as an article of food by many people. When ripe, the dry mass of threads and spores is used as a styptic, and its fumes answer the purpose of chloroform. Lycope'rsicum. Love Apple. Tomato. From lykos, a wolf, and persicon, a peach ; in allusion to the fleshy fruit, and its inferiority com- pared with the peach. Nat. Ord. Solanacece. A genus of three or four species of her- baceous, procumbent plants, natives of South America, chiefly Peru. The flowers are dis- tinguished from those of the allied Solatium, by their stamens having the anthers connected together by a thin membrane which is pro- longed upwards. The principal species is L. esculentum, for culture, etc., of which, see Tomato. Lycopodia'cese. A natural order of Cryptogams, consisting of two very distinct groups, and comprising four genera and about 150 species. They are found in all climates, and are either terrestrial, or epiphytal perennials. The stems are branched and leafy throughout, and generally rigid. The leaves are imbricated all round the stem, and are arranged in from two to six ranks. Lycopodium, and Selaginella, are the best known examples. Lycopo'dium. Club Moss. From lykos, a wolf, and pous, a foot ; the roots having a resem- blance to that animal's paw. Nat. Ord. Lyco- podiacex. An extensive genus of neat little evergreen herbaceous plants allied to Selaginella, but distinguished from that genus by their coniferous habit and the single form of the capsules. L. dendroideum, remarkable for its tree-like appearance, is largely employed in 236 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS LYC making " Christmas greens," and in bouquet work by the florists. It is very common in swampy places, particularly in New England. The spores of the common Club Moss, L. clavatum, are very inflammable, and are used on the stage to produce artificial lightning. Many species formerly placed under this genus are now removed to Selaginella, which see. Lyco'psis. A genus of Boraginacece, differing very slightly from Anchusa, with which genus it is now united by many botanists. Lyco'ris. The name of a woman in Eoman history. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. A small genus of hardy bulbs from China, producing an umbel of several showy flowers on a slender scape from twelve to eighteen inches high, the color being yellow or light straw, and pink. They are allied to the Vallota, and require the same treatment. Introduced in 1758. Lygodi'ctyon. From Lygodium and dictyon, a net ; its net-like veins distinguishing it from Lygodium. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. L. Forsteri, a climbing Fern, common in the South Sea Islands, constitutes this genus. It is almost identical with the genus Lygodium, and is also known as Hydroglossum. Syn. Lygodium reticulatum. Iiygo'dium. Climbing Fern. Japan Fern. From lygodes, flexible; in allusion to the twining habit of the plants. Nat. Ord. Poly- podiacece. A genus of climbing Ferns, mostly of an ornamental character, and widely dispersed over the warmer parts of the earth. L. scandens, introduced from Japan in 1830, is a favorite in the green-house, and is well adapted to house culture, as it requires but little light, and is not injured by "furnace heat" or gas, so fatal to most plants in- troduced into the drawing-room. It is moreover a rapid grower. With a little management this plant can be made to com- plete its growth during the summer, and it may then be placed in a cool room in the house or in the hall, where it will remain an object of beauty till spring, when it may be cut down for a new growth. There is reason to suppose that L. scandens is hardy, even in the vicinity of New York. It is increased by spores or root division. L. palmatvm, the only native species, is found in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Virginia, and Kentucky. It is pressed and sold in large quantities for parlor decoration, and is known in the trade as the Hartford Fern. Lyo'nia. Named in honor of John Lyon, a col- lector of North American plants. Nat. Ord. , Ericaceae. This genus formerly included under An- dromeda, comprises about eight species of hardy or green-house trees or shrubs. They are natives of North America, Mexico, Jamaica, and Cuba. L. ligustrina, the American representative of the genus is found in low thickets, and swamps, from New England to Virginia and southwards. Lype'ria. Fr6m lyperos, sad or sorrowful; alluding to the dull, heavy color of the flow- ers. Nat. Ord. Scrophulariaceat. A genus of herbs or low-branching under-shrubs, all natives of southern Africa. They are of little LYT ornamental value, and are but little culti- vated. The flowers of L. crocea have been imported under the name of African Saffron. Lyrate. A lyrate leaf is pinnatifid, with the upper lobes much larger than the lower, and ending in one still larger. Lysilo'ma. A genus of Leguminosm, of the tribe Mimosece, formerly combined with Acacia, from which, however, it is botanically different. It comprises eight or ten species, all natives of tropical America, and "is of considerable im- portance in an economic point of view, on account of one of its species yielding the valuable hard timber known as Sabicu, Savacii, or Savico wood, the origin of which was long unknown, but which has now been ascertained to be the product of a species of this genus, to which the name of Sabicu has been given. Sabicu timber is imported in considerable quantities from Cuba, where only, the tree is known to exist. It is a dark colored wood, very heavy, excessively hard, and extremely durable, the two latter quali- ties rendering it of great value to the ship- builder, by whom it is much esteemed. On account of its hardness, it was selected for the stairs of the building for the Great Exhibition in 1851, and notwithstanding the immense number of people who passed up and down, the stairs were found, at the close of the Ex- hibition, to be scarcely at all the worse for wear. Lysima'chia. Loosestrife. From lysis, dis- solving, and mache, strife ; supposed soothing qualities. Nat. Ord. PrimulacexB. Hardy herbaceous perennials of the easiest culture. L. nummularia. Moneywort, is a well-known evergreen trailer, a native of Great Britain. If kept in a pot of moist soil and suspended, it will produce shoots of two or three feet in length, which hang down on every side. L. nummularia aurea is a golden- leaved variety of great beauty, now much used as a drooping plant. L. verticillata is an upright-growing plant, with an abundance of showy yellow flowers suitable for a large border. L. clethroides, a Japanese species is a graceful and beautiful plant, from two to three feet high, bearing long dense nodding spikes of white blossoms, the leaves display- ing brilliant tints in autumn. They are all readily increased by cuttings, seeds or division. Lysiono'tus. From lysis, loosening, and notos, the back ; in reference to the capsule opening with elasticity from the dorsal suture. Nat. Ord. GesneracecB. A genus containing a few species of glabrous or pubescent plants, natives of the Himalayas. L. ternifolia (Syn. L. serrata) has compound umbels of beautiful pale lavender-colored flowers, with veins of a deeper color, shaded to soft gray. It was introduced in 1882. Lythra'ceae. A natural order of herbs or shrubs, often with square branches, and usually op- posite, entire, exstipulate leaves. The plants are chiefly tropical, but some are found in Europe and North America. They have astringent qualities. Lawsonia alba yields the Henna of the Arabs. There are forty genera, and upwards of 300 species ; Cuphea, Grislea, and Lythrum are good examples of the order. 236 LINARIA CYMBALT.ARIA VARIEGATA. LUNARIA BIENNIS (HONESTY). LUPIN0S. MALCOLMIA (VIRGINIAN STOCK). LYGODIUM. LUCULIA. MAHERNIA ODORATA. MARANTA ZEBRINA. LYCHNIS CHALCEDONICA. MAGNOLIA. MALOPE GRANDrPLORA. 237 AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 237 LYT Ly 'thrum. Loosestrife. From lythron, black blood ; the prevailing purple color of the flow- ers. Nat. Ord. Lythracece. A genus of hardy annuals and herbaceous perennials. Several species of the latter are common in marshes and wet places through- out the Middle and Western States. The flow- MAC ers produced in the gardens are finer than those growing wild. They flower freely in the autumn months and are propagated by divis- ion. L. Grcefferi is a very ornamental trailing plant, well adapted for cultivating in hanging pans or baskets for summer decoration. It is readily increased by cuttings. M. M aa'ckia Amurensis. rastis Amu/rensis. A synonym of Clad- Ma'ba. Its native name in the Tonga Islands. Nat. Ord. Ebenacece. A genus of nearly twenty species, dispersed over tropical Africa and Asia, the Pacific Islands, and Australia. The Ebony Wood of Cochin China is believed to be the produce of a tree of this genus. Only one or two species are in cultivation. Macada'mia. Named after John McAdam, M.D., of Victoria. Nat. Ord. ProteaccB. M. ternifolia is remarkable for its fruit, which contains a kernel of a remarkably rich and agreeable flavor, resembling, but much superior to, the Filbert. It is the only species yet in cultivation, and was introduced in 1869. Mace. The envelope which surrounds Nutmegs. See Myristica. Machagranthe'ra. From machairos, a sickle, and anthera, an anther; alluding to their peculiar form. Nat. Ord. Composite. A genus of biennial and annual plants, natives of North America, now classed with Aster. M. canescens, and M. tanacetifolia are in cultivation but are scarcely worth growing. Macka'ya. Named after Dr. J. F. Mackay, author of the "Flora Hibernica." Nat. Ord. AcanthacecB. M. bella, the only species, is a lovely shrubby green-house plant, a native of the rocky bed. of the Tongat river, Natal, and is described by its discoverer, Mr. J. Sanderson, as form- ing a beautiful object, being one mass of most delicate, pendant, pale lilac, campanulate flowers, which grow in racemes four to six inches long. It grows very freely, but re- quires special treatment to induce it to flower profusely. The essential points are the encouragement of a free growth during sum- mer and the allowance of a season of rest in winter, during which time no water should be applied to the roots or overhead. The plant is nearly or quite deciduous, and the racemes are produced from the points of nearly all well ripened shoots. It was introduced in 1869, and is propagated by cuttings in sum- mer. This genus is included by Bentham and Hooker under Asystasia. Maclea'nia. Named after John Maclean, of Lima, a British merchant, and a distinguished patron of botany. A genus of Peruvian shrubs of the Nat. Ord. VacciniacecB, comprising about a dozen species of ornamental green-house shrubs, with alternate leaves and axillary flower stalks, terminated by a single reddish or yellow flower of great beauty. Cuttings will readily root in sand or soil. First intro- duced in 1842. Macleay'a. A synonym for Bocconia, which see. Maclu'ra. Osage Orange. Named after Wil- liam Maelwe, a North American geologist. Nat. Ord. Urticacem. A genus of handsome, low-growing trees, generally attaining the height of thirty feet. There are but three species included in the genus, two of which are common in the West Indies, and not hardy here, excepting in the extreme Southern States. M. aurantiaca, the Osage Orange, is a native of the south-western States, and forms a spreading tree from thirty to sixty feet high, but is easily kept dwarf by cutting back, and is extensively used as a hedge plant in the Western States, for which purpose its rapid growth, together with its strong spines, renders it suitable. The wood is bright yellow and very elastic. It is called Bow- wood, from its being used by the Indians for making bows. Young plants are grown from seed, which, if sown in good soil, will make very strong plants for the hedge-rows in two years. Many prefer setting them one year from seed. This species is hardy in the vicinity of New York, and is used for hedges and on the lawn. M. tricuspidata (Syn. Cud- rania triloba) is an ornamental deciduous tree, remarkable for the difference of the appear- ance and shape of its leaves in its young and adult state. It forms a good hedge plant, and in China, whence it was introduced in 1872, the leaves are used for feeding silk- worms, and the wood yields a yellow dye. M. tinctoria is a synonym for Chlorophoratinctoria, which see. Maco'des. From makos, length ; in reference to the shape of the labellum. A very beauti- ful Orchid from Java, its leaves beautifully marked with netted golden veins, closely allied to Anwctochilus. Macrade'nia lutescens, is a little Trinidad Orchid forming a genus allied to Oncidium. 238 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS MAC Macrome'ria. From makros, large, and meris, a part ; the flowers of this genus are the largest in the whole family. A genus of Bor- raginacece, comprising about eight species of half-hardy perennial herbs, natives of Mexico, Columbia and Peru, closely allied to Litho- spermum. M. exserta with yellow flowers, probably the only species yet in cultivation, was introduced from Mexico in 1846. Macronemum. From Makros, long, and Kneme, a leg; in reference to the long flower-stalks. Nat. Ord. Rubiacece. A genus of tropical trees and shrubs, natives of tropical America and the West Indies. M. Jamaicense, the only species yet introduced, has greenish-white, sweet-scented flowers, with oblong-oval, polished leaves. It was introduced from Jamaica in 1806. Macropi'per. The word signifies large pepper. Nat. Ord. Piperacece. M. methysticum formerly called Piper methy- sticum, furnishes the root called Ava by the Polynesians. It has narcotic properties, and is employed medicinally, but is chiefly remark- able for the value attached to it as a narcotic and stimulant beverage, of which the natives partake before they commence any important business or religious rites. It is used by chewing the root and extracting the juice, and has a calming rather than an intoxicating effect. Europeans distill the juice, and use it as a beverage in moderate quantities. By the more respectable of the population it is considered a filthy preparation, and is not indulged in. Macrorhy'nchus. From markos, long, and rhynchos, a snout. Nat. Ord. Composite. A genus of annual and perennial plants, natives of North and South America, closely allied to the Dandelion. M. grandiflorus, a Californian perennial species has very hand- some, large, yellow flower-heads, but it is rarely found in cultivation. Macro'stylis. From makros, long, and stylos, a style ; style very long. Nat. Ord. Rutaceoe. A genus of pretty, green-house evergreen shrubs, indigenous to South Africa and nearly allied to Barosma, and Diosma. The reddish flowers are arranged in a kind of umbel on the ends of the branches. The Orchidaceous genus of this name is synonymous with Corymbis. Macroto'mia. From makros, long, and tome, a cutting; in allusion to the long division of the calyx. Nat. Ord. Boraginaceai. A genus of erect, hispid, perennial herbs, natives of the Himalayas and the East Indies. M. Benthami, the only species yet introduced, grows from one to two feet high, producing a thyrse eight to twelve inches long, of dark maroon-purple flowers. It was introduced from the Western Himalayas in 1884, and is perfectly hardy. Macroza'mia. From makros, long, and Zamia. Nat. Ord. Cycadacece. This interesting genus is formed from a few species of Zamia, and contains some of the most beautiful plants under cultivation for decorative purposes. The leaves and trunk are similar to Cycas except that the pinnee have no midrib and are striate, with parallel veins. M. plumosa, plume-like, is MAG one of the most beautiful and is remarkable for its distinct and elegant character. M corallipes is another rare species. There are several species under cultivation, all natives of Australia. For culture see Zamia. Maculate, Maculose. Spotted or blotched. Madder. The root of Rubia tinctoria, which see. Maderia Nut. See Juglans. # Maderia Vine. See Boussingaultia baselloides. Ma'dia. Madi is the name of the original species {M. sativa) in Chili. Nat. Ord. Com- posite. This is a small genus of coarse-growing, hardy annuals, with bright yellow and white flowers, natives of Chili and northern Califor- nia. They grow freely in almost any soil or situation. The seeds should be sown in the spring as soon as the ground is in readiness and the weather sufficiently warm ; introduced in 1831. Syn. Madaria. Madonna Lily. Lilium candidum. Madwort. The genus Alyssum. Magic Tree, Peruvian. Cantua buxifolia. Magno'lia. Named after Pierre Magnol, Pro- fessor of Medicine at Montpellier, 1638-1715. Nat. Ord. Magnoliacem. A magnificent genus of ornamental trees and shrubs, natives of the United States, China, India, and Japan. It is composed of evergreen and deciduous hardy and half- hardy trees and shrubs. The flowers are white, purple, or greenish white, and are re- markable for their fragrance. M. acuminata (Cucumber Tree) grows from thirty to fifty feet high, and is common in moist woods from New York to Ohio and southward. M. glauca (Small or Laurel Magnolia, Sweet Bay) is a low growing deciduous tree, in some localities called Swamp Sassafras. It is also known by the name of Beaver Tree, because the roots are eaten by beavers, which animals also make use of the wood in constructing their huts or nests. This species is common in swamps in New Jersey and southward. The flowers are single, produced on the ends of the branches, greenish white, and delight- fully fragrant. They are collected and sold in the markets and streets of New York in large quantities. M. cordala is the Yellow Cucumber Tree of Georgia. M. grandiflora (Great Laurel) is justly entitled to its specific name, as it is one of the most noble and beau- tiful of American evergreen trees, remark- able for the majesty of its form, the magnifi- cence of its foliage, and the beauty of its flowers. This is a large tree, growing from sixty to one hundred feet high ; the foliage is thick, brilliant on the upper surface, and rusty colored underneath ; the flowers are pure white, six to eight inches across, and very fragrant. It is a native of the Carolinas and westward, but not hardy north of Wash- ington. There is one specimen in Philadel- phia, well protected, that blooms annually. M. macrophylla is a comparatively rare species being only occasionally met in the woods from Florida to Tennessee. It rarely attains a height of sixty feet. It is a deciduous tree of perfect form, with leaves from one and a half to three feet long, clustered at the sum- AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 239 MAG mit of the branches. The flowers are pure white, with a purple spot at the base of the petals, and are from eight to twelve inches in width, and deliciously fragrant. This species is not considered sufficiently hardy to with- stand the severity of our winters. It is to be regretted that it has such a reputation, as it is in a great measure unjust. It might not succeed in the more exposed situations, but there is scarcely a fine suburban place around New York that has not some sheltered, cosy corner in which this noble tree would not de- light to grow. There is upon the Manice estate at Queens, Long Island, a tree of this species that was planted more than fifty years ago, and is now fifty or more feet high, with a boll a foot in diameter. There is upon this tree every year hundreds of flowers, and it is no less conspicuous in autumn, with its large heads of bright scarlet fruit. It also suc- ceeds well up the Hudson River. Young trees are easily produced from seed. M. Jiypoleuca, a Japanese species of great beauty, has leaves a foot long, glaucous beneath, and sometimes purple tinted above, with a red midrib and leaf stem. The flowers are large, creamy-white, delightfully fragrant, and bloom in June after the foliage is developed. M stellata, known as Hall's Japan Magnolia, is another very desirable species. Its form is low and shrub-like, flowers pure white and delicately fragrant. It blooms earlier than any other Magnolia, and is very showy. M. Campbellii, introduced from the Himalayas in 1858, the flowers of which are pale rose in- side, crimson outside, and slightly fragrant, is an exceedingly handsome deciduous species, probably not entirely hardy in the Northern States. M. con- spicua, or M. Yulan, is a native of China, where it attains a height of forty or fifty feet. It is perfectly hardy in this latitude, and re- markable for the great number of white flowers produced in spring, before the leaves are developed. M. purpurea and M. Soulangeana, are deciduous, like the former, and are in all respects similar, except that the flowers are purple outside and white within. These two species contrast finely with M. Conspicua, when planted together upon the lawn. M. fuscata, a green-house evergreen from China, is a low-growing shrub, with small glossy leaves, and dull purple flowers of exquisite fragrance. There are many other species and varieties, but those de- scribed are the best representatives. Magnolia'cese. A natural order of trees or shrubs, with alternate, leathery, sometimes dotted leaves, and showy, often fragrant flowers, natives of tropical and eastern Asia, and North America. They possess bitter, tonic, and aromatic qualities. There are about a dozen genera and upward of seventy species. Examples : Ulicium, Drimys, and Liriodendron. Maguey-fibre Plant. Various species of Agave. Mahe'rnia. An anagram of Hermannia, an allied genus. Nat. Ord. Sterculiaceoe. A genus of neat little green-house shrubs, growing about two feet high, and remarkable for the profusion. of their fragrant yellow, or red and yellow flowers. The yellow M. odorata, is the best known. They are easily MAL grown in the green-house with ordinary treatment. All the species are from the Cape of Good Hope, were introduced early in the present century, and are easily increas- ed by cuttings of the young shoots. Mahogany-Tree. Swietenia Mahagoni. Maho'nia. In honor of Bernard McMahon, an American botanist. Nat. Ord. Berberidacetz. A genus of handsome hardy and half-hardy evergreen shrubs, most of which are now in- cluded in the genus Berberis. M. Bealii has large leaves of a yellowish green tint, com- posed of broad spiny leaflets of irregular out- line, and terminal clusters of yellow flowers, produced in winter or early spring, a native of Japan, B. Japonica is probably a variety of the same species. They are of comparatively recent introduction (1845) and are so distinct from everything else that one or the other of the varieties should be found in every collec- tion of choice shrubs. They require a slight protection in winter in the Northern States. By some this genus is placed under Berberis. Maiden Hair Pern. See Adiantvm. Maiden Hairtree. See Salisburia. Maiden Pink. Dianthus deltoides. Maize. See Zea. Malabai'la. Named after Count Malabaila von Canal, once director of the Botanic Gardens at Prague. Nat. Ord. Umbelliferaz. A genus of hardy perennial, often glabrous herbs, similar in habit to Peucedanum, but with broader leaves ; natives of eastern Africa, western Asia and south-eastern Europe. M. Opoponax (Syn. Pastinaca Opo- ponax) is sometimes cultivated as a decora- tive plant for the sub-tropical garden. It grows about six feet in height and is easily increased by seeds sown in the open ground in spring. Malabar-Leaf. A common name for Cinnamo- mum Malabathrum. Malabar Nightshade. See Basella. Malacoca'rpus. From malakos, soft, and kar- pos, a fruit ; alluding to the juicy fruits. Nat. Ord. Cactacem. This genus, now included by Bentham and Hooker under Echinocactus, is composed of the smooth-fruited species of that genus. Malacoid. Having a mucilaginous texture. Mala'xis. From malaxis, tenderness; in allu- sion to the nature of the species. Nat. Ord. Orchidaceai. A genus of curious and interesting terres- trial Orchids, growing naturally in spongy boggy places. They are mainly of botanical interest. Malay, or Rose Apple. A name applied to the fruit of Eugenia Jambos, and some other species of Eugenia. Malco'lmia. Named after W. Malcolm, a cele- brated London nurseryman. Nat. Ord. Cruci- ferm. A genus of hardy plants, mostly annuals, chiefly natives of the south of Europe, pro- ducing white or purple flowers disposed in racemes. Most of the species are but little grown. M. maritima is the well-known Vir- ginian Stock of our gardens. They all grow from seed sown in spring. 240 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OP PLANTS MAL Male Fern. A common name for Aspidium Filix-mas. Mallow. See Malva. Ma'lope. From malos, soft or tender: refer- ring to the texture of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Malvaceae. Annual plants with very handsome flowers. M. trifida, of which there are two kinds, one with crimson and the other with white flowers, is rather dwarf; but M. grandiflora will grow four or five feet high in a good soil and an open situation, bearing very large and showy, brilliant crimson flowers. All the kinds are quite hardy, and only require sow- ing in April or May in the open border, and thinning out or transplanting, when the young plants are three or four inches high. Natives of north Africa ; introduced in 1808. Malorti'ea. Named in honor of E. Von Malortie of Hanover. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. A small genus of slender, dwarf, elegant palms, admirably adapted for cultivation in the dwelling-house or for table decoration. They are characterized by their slender reed- like stems and simple branching spikes of unisexual flowers. M. gracilis and M. simplex, two species from Guatemala, are considerably grown as ornamental plants, and were form- erly referred to Chamcerops. They are of easy culture, requiring a rich light soil and plenty of water. Malpi'ghia. Named after Marcello Malpighi, an Italian naturalist. Nat. Ord. Malpigiacece. A genus containing about twenty species of small trees or shrubs, natives, principally, of tropical America. Flowers pink or white, fasciculate or corymbose, rarely solitary; drupe fleshy. The fruits of M. glabra, and M. wrens, are eaten in the West Indies, those of the former being called Barbadoes Cherry. Propagated by cuttings. Malpigia'ceae. A natural order of trees or shrubs, sometimes climbing, with simple, generally opposite leaves, and yellow or red flowers. They are natives chiefly of tropical countries, and a great number of them are found in South America. There are about forty-nine genera and 600 species. Good ex- amples are Malpigia Bannisteria, and Gaudi- chaudia. Ma'lus. Pyrus Mains. The Apple, which see. Ma'lva. Mallow. From malacho, to soften ; referring to their emollient qualities. Nat. Ord. Malvaceae. This is a group of plants remarkable for their large, showy flowers ; but the coarseness of the leaves and loose manner of growing de- prive the genus of much of the interest it would otherwise have. The genus consists of tender, half-hardy, and hardy perennials and annuals, all of the easiest culture, according to their respective kinds. M. moschata, the Musk-Mallow, derives its name from the peculiar musky odor given off by all parts of the plant when kept in a confined situation, par- ticularly in dry weather ; but it is seldom pow- erful enough to be perceived in the open air. This species is a hardy herbaceous perennial, common in waste places in Great Britain. M. rotundifolia has become naturalized until it is quite a nuisance in our gardens and yards. Malva'ceae. A natural order of herbaceous plants, trees, or shrubs, generally distributed MAM over the world. They are mucilaginous and demulcent, and yield fibres. Althtea officinalis (the Marsh-Mallow) yields mucilage, Gossi- pium furnishes various kinds of cotton, Hibis- cus cannabinus supplies Indian hemp, Paritium datum gives Cuba bast. There are nearly fifty genera, including Malva, Lavatera, Hibis- cus, and Sida, and upwards of 1,000 species. Malva'strum. Name altered from Malva. Nat. Ord. Malvaceae. A genus containing about sixty species of green-house or hardy herbs, natives of the warmer parts of North and South America. M. Munroanum is a dwarf hardy plant, with rather small orange-red flowers, introduced from Columbia in 1828, under the name of Malva Munroanum. M. lateritium, an intro- duction from Buenos Ayres, has handsome brick-red flowers, on long peduncles. The perennial sorts are increased by seeds or cut- tings ; the annuals by seeds only. Malvavi'scus. From malva, mallow, and viscus, glue ; referring to the mucilage with which it abounds. Nat. Ord. Malvaceae. A genus of evergreen shrubs, with entire or slightly lobed leaves, and crimson flowers, natives of tropical America and Mexico. M. arboreus (Syn. Achania maVvavtecus) is a well- known green-house shrub, with bright scarlet flowers; free-flowering, and desirable. Pro- pagated by cuttings of the side shoots. Ma'mmea. Mammee Tree. Mamey is the native name. Nat. Ord. Clusiacece. M. Americana, a native of the West Indies, produces the Mammee Apple, or South Ameri- can Apricot, which is very much valued in tropical countries. It often attains the size of a child's head, and is of a yellow color. The outer rind and the pulp which immediately surrounds the seeds are very bitter, but the intermediate is sweet and aromatic, and is eaten cut into slices and steeped in wine, or made into preserves of various kinds. Mammee Apple. See Mammea. Mammilla'ria. From mamma, the nipple; in allusion to the small tubercles. Nat. Ord. Cactaceae. Succulent plants, with almost globular stems covered with prickles, but without leaves, the flowers growing out of the stem without any stalk. These plants are natives of the high table-land of Mexico, where they are subject to very few variations of tem- perature, and they should, therefore, be kept in green-house heat all the year. They are also found in Texas and Colorado. In their native country they grow in rich loam, and therefore require a better soil than the dif- ferent kinds of Cereus and Echinocactus, which grow among calcareous rocks, in the mould formed by the deposition of vegetable matter in the fissures. By attending to these particulars the Mammillarias maybe easily grown in any situation where they can be kept free from frost. When kept in a room, they should be allowed as much air as pos- sible, and the dust which lodges among their spines should be frequently blown off with a small pair of bellows or the breath. There are about 100 species in this genus, nearly all confined to Mexico and South America. They were first introduced from Peru in l/»», and are propagated by offsets or by seeds. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 241 MAM Mammoth Trees of California. See Sequoia. Manchineel Tree. The virulently poisonous Hippomane Mancinella. Mandarin Orange. Citrus nobiiis. Mandevi'lla. Named after H. J. Mandeville, an English minister at Buenos Ayres, and a botanical collector. Nat. Ord. Apocynacece. M. suaveolens, the only species yet intro- duced, is a native of South America, and is a desirable climber for the green-house, as it is a rapid grower, and produces clusters of very sweet-scented white flowers during the sum- mer. It should be allowed to rest during winter. It is propagated by cuttings of the small, stiff side shoots, taken off close to the old wood. Introduced in 1837. Mandio'cco. A synonym of Manihot, which see. Mandrago'ra. Mandrake. From mandra, an oxstall, and agauros, cruel ; alluding to its poisonous effects when accidentally given to cattle with their fodder. Nat. Ord. Solanacece. The species are natives of southern Europe and the East, and have very short stems, with a thick, fleshy, often forked root, from the summit of which the entire ovate lance-shaped leaves appear. The early writers attribute the most wonderful and poisonous properties to this plant ; it was both used to save and to destroy life. Shakespeare alludes to it as fol- lows : "Or have we eaten of the insane root that takes the reason prisoner? " In the olden time this root was said to be employed as an anaesthetic, in the same way that chloroform now is. While its poisonous properties are yet acknowledged and dreaded, its medical properties are no longer esteemed. Mandrake. See Podophyllum and Mandragora. Mane'ttia. In honor of Xavier Manetti, prefect of the Botanic Garden at Florence, and au- thor of "Regnum Vegetabile," 1756. Nat. Ord. Rubiacece. An elegant family of green-house climbers, suitable for training over a wire trellis at- tached to the pots in which the plants grow. The species delight in a moderately warm and moist atmosphere when they are growing, and in the case of having tuberous roots, like M. cordifolia, are all the better for a decided drying through the winter. The other species, from having only fibrous roots, will not bear a reduction to the same extent. M. bicolor for winter-flowering should be grown freely through the summer, and afterward be placed in a dry, warm position to induce it to flower freely, and to preserve its foliage from mildew, to which it is very subject. The flowers of this species are yellow ana crimson ; those of the others are scarlet, except M. Ly- gistum, a native of Cuba, which has pink blossoms. All the species do well here planted out during summer, keeping up a continuous bloom, and are propagated by cuttings, either of the roots or shoots. In- troduced from South America in 1806. Mangel Wurzel. Beta vulgaris macrorhiza. A cultivated variety of Beet, largely grown as food for cattle. Mangi'fera. Mango Tree. From mango, the Hindoo name of the fruit, and fero, to bear. Nat. Ord. Anacardiacea. MAN M. Indica grows abundantly in India, where numerous varieties are cultivated. It is also grown in Brazil and the Mauritius for the fruit, which is highly esteemed for its grateful acidity and sweet perfume. In the tropics it is the principal fruit eaten. The tree grows about twenty feet high, and the fruit is pro- duced in terminal clusters. Mangle'sia. Named after Captain Mangles, and his brother, Robert Mangles, distinguished patrons of botany. Nat. Ord. Proteacem. A genus of ornamental green-house shrubs from Swan River, with very small flowers of little beauty. It is grown only for its beauti- ful foliage, and is now included under Grevil- lea by some botanists. Mangosteen. See Garcinia. Mango Tree. See Mangifera. Mangrove. See Rhizophora. Manica'ria. From manica, a glove ; referring to the spathe rolled around the inflorescence or flower stem. Nat. Ord. Palmaewz. A noble genus of Palms inhabiting the tidal swamps of the Lower Amazon River. M. saccifera, the only species yet introduced, has immense leaves, unlike any others of the order, which are more or less pinnated or fan- shaped ; these, on the contrary, are entire, frequently growing thirty feet long and from three to four in width ; and being of a stiff habit, stand erect upon the summit of the stout, crooked stem, which usually attains the height of fifteen or twenty feet. The In- dians call the Palm Bussu, and its immense leaves are invaluable to them for thatching their huts. The fibrous spathes are also con- verted into useful bags and caps by simply cutting round them near the bottom, and pulling them off entire, and afterward stretch- ing them open as wide as possible without tearing ; they also supply a coarse, but strong kind of cloth. On account of its immense size this interesting species is rarely met in collections. Propagated by seeds. Mani'hot. The Brazilian name of this genus. Nat. Ord. Euphorbiacem (Syn. Mandiocca). A genus comprising about eighty species of tall herbs, or evergreen shrubs, mostly natives of Brazil, a few being dispersed through the warm regions as far as Mexico. M. Aipi, the Sweet Cassava, deserves special notice as being one of the recent additions to the food plants of this country. It is closely related to the Ricinus or Castor-oil Bean which it resembles in general appearance. In the southern portion of the United States and more particularly in Florida, there are large areas admirably adapted to the growth of this plant as an article of home consumption, while in time its manufacture into starch, tapioca, and glucose, ought to become a lead- ing industry. It has also created much inter- est as food for stock being greatly relished by cattle, horses, hogs, and poultry. The tubers often three or four feet in length may be dug at any season, only however, as wanted for use, as they decay soon after being exposed to the air. It is propagated from cuttings of the larger stems, which before frost, are cut, laid in piles and covered with earth. When ready for planting in January, February, or March, the stems are cut into pieces about six 242 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS MAN inches long and planted foul* of five feet apart each way, and three or four inches deep. The crop receives shallow culture until sufficiently grown to hold its own against weeds. It may be left to grow for two years with advantage, thus requiring a minimum of culture. It is calculated that from ten to fifty tons of roots of one year's growth ought to be obtained from an acre of land according to its quality. Besides those already mentioned it can be put to a variety of uses, the Florida house-wives having used it for making bread, puddings, custards, fritters, jellies, etc., and also as a vegetable in all the ways in which potatoes are used. The root of M. utilissima (Syn. Jan- ipha manihot) is virulently poisonous and bit- ter. The poisonous juice is however express- ed in the process of manufacture and when allowed to settle, deposits what is known as Brazilian Arrowroot or Tapioca. It is from this that the Tapioca of Commerce is pre- pared. Manna. See Alhagi, Ornus, Tamarix and Rocella. Manna Ash. See Ornus. Man-of-the-Earth. See IpomcBa. Man Orchis, or Green Man Orchis. A name usually given to Aceras anthropophora, which see. Manti'sia. Opera Girls. Named after the in- sect Mantis, to which the flowers have been compared. Nat. Ord. Scitamineee. Hot- house herbaceous evergreens from the East Indies. One of the species has long been grown in some countries for the singu- larity and beauty of its flowers, which present some appearance of a ballet dancer, hence the popular name, Dancing Girls, applied to the plant. The filament and anther, with its wing-like margins, represent the head and neck of the lady, the long inner segments of the corolla represent the arms, while the label- lum corresponds to the dress. The flowers are purple and yellow ; they were introduced in 1808, and are propagated by root division. Manu'lea. From manus, the hand ; in allusion to the divisions of the corolla. Nat. Ord. ScrophulariacecB. A genus of about twenty-five species of green-house plants; natives of southern Africa. They are handsome plants with golden-yellow, or orange-colored flowers, of easy cultivation, though rarely found except in large collections. M. rubra, yellow, and M. tomentosa, orange, are the best known species, and are easily increased by cuttings or by seed. Manures. There are few soils or conditions under which crops can be grown successfully without the use of manures, consequently, their aid is of the utmost importance to every operator in the soil whether professional or amateur. According to the experiments which have been made — all substances enter- ing into the composition of vegetable manure or food, should be in a state of fluidity, or in the form of gas. The great object therefore in the application of manure should be to make it afford as much soluble matter as is possible to the roots of the plant, and in so gradual a manner that it maybe entirely con- sumed in producing the required crop. Every substance, organic or inorganic, that adds directly or indirectly to the fertility of the MAN soil may therefore be considered a manure. The comparative value of the manures must be regulated by the cost. If rotted stable man- ure whether from horses or cows, can be deliv- ered on the grounds at $3 per ton, it is about as valuable for fertilizing purposes, as Peru- vian Guano at $65 per ton, or pure bone dust at $40 per ton. It is better than any of these or any other concentrated fertilizer, from the fact of its mechanical action on the land — that is, its effects from its light porous nature in aerating and pulverizing the soil. The method of its application is so well known that it is not necessary to go further into detail. Fish. On the coasts of New Jersey, Con- necticut, Long Island, etc., Fish are often used as a manure. When composted with sea- weed and soil, decomposition is very rapid and the quantity applied to the land must be according to the strength of the compost. It is a valuable manure for all early vegetable crops. Gabden Refuse of almost any description is valuable as a manure, either composted with lime and soil, or dug in, when green. Leaf- soil collected from woods where the leaves have decayed naturally till those beneath the surface have become changed into a light mold is of great value in heavy soils, and in all composts where turfy peat cannot be had. For Rhododendrons, Azaleas, and many fine-rooted, hard-wooded plants, its value is not sufficiently recognized in many places where quantities might easily be col- lected. Nothing is better suited for improv- ing flower-beds, or for adding to soil of any description for placing round trees, shrubs, or plants, whose roots it is desired to encourage. Muck is the name given to a deposit usually largely composed of vegetable matter, found in swamps or in hollows of forest lands. Of itself it has usually but little fertilizing property, but from its porous nature when dry, it is one of the best materials to use for mixing with other manures as an absorbent ; mixed with night soil it is the basis of Pou- drette, a well known commercial fertilizer. Lime. Under certain conditions and for certain crops, the use of Lime as a manure is often attended with excellent results. Quick-lime is extremely caustic, and possesses the power of decomposing animal and vege- table substances. Its chemical action there- fore brings the component parts of the soil into a proper condition for being absorbed by the roots of plants ; hence its fertilizing value on land that has been recently broken up, or that contains a quantity of roots, fibre, peat or other inert vegetable matter. Lindley in his "Theory of Horticulture" states that "when this substance (Lime) is mixed with decaying matter, it hastens its decomposition and renders it more easily assimilated. This is its chief horticultural value if regarded as a manure. In old cultivated land, rich in humus, it suddenly increases productiveness in a remarkable degree, increasing the properties of dormant animal or vegetable manure. Hence it has a most important effect in kitchen gardens. But limed land soon loses its productiveness unless manure is subse- quently applied, and poor soils are soon run out by it." One of the best methods of apply- AND GENEEAL HORTICULTURE. 243 MAN ing it is by composting it with double the amount of soil, weeds, or organic matter of any description (see Composts), spreading it over the ground, and keeping it as near the top of the soil as possible. Applied at the rate of 100 bushels per acre it is of great benefit to grass lands, and all Cereals, Beet-root, Sain- foin, Clover, Peas, etc. Such a compost is also an excellent top dressing for lawns, especially in shady situations, if they get full of moss. To some plants such as many Coni- fers, Rhododendrons, Azaleas, and almost all members of the Heath family, its presence in the soil is undoubtedly injurious. For Guano, Bone Dust, Ashes, etc., see Fertilizers. Manxjee, Liquid. Manure of almost any description is quicker in its action, and may be most efficiently applied in the form of Liquid Manure. It has also the great advan- tage of economy as it can be applied at any season when nourishment is required by the growing crops, or by plants in pots. Cow Manure forms one of the best substances for this purpose as it possesses none of the caustic principles so prevalent in chemical preparations, and will never injure, no matter how strong it is made. Manure from sheep- pens, poultry or pigeon-houses, is also excel- lent for this purpose when procurable, but must be used with more caution. Guano, about one pound to twenty gallons of water, or one pound of Sulphate of Lime with half a pound of Nitrate of Soda, are also excellent, but these also must be used with caution. Soot, placed in a bag and left soaking in the water, is an excellent liquid manure always tending to produce healthy foliage of a dark green color. Stir up well a few times, then allow the liquid to stand and become clear, the clearer the better. It is only that which dissolves in the water and becomes invisible, the same as sugar dissolves in tea, that is of real benefit to plants, yet some persons stir up the mud at the bottom of the casks, sus- pending visible matter in the water. This is generally useless, and often worse, in seal- ing up the' pores of the soil. Liquid Manure, when kept in casks for some time, is apt to become offensive, though that which escapes is just what plants re- quire, the very essence of the liquid. This may be kept in it by adding a little Sulphate of Iron, an ounce or two probably sufficing. A ready and clean method of preparing Liquid Manure at once, is by stirring a quarter of a pound of Guano well into a four-gallon can or pail of water, or half that quantity of Nitrate of Soda or Sulphate of Ammonia, and apply- ing forthwith where it is needed. The strength named is for garden crops ; half that quantity is sufficient for plants in pots, and more should not be used by the inexperi- enced. Manures, Absorbents for. This term is used in horticulture for such materials as ab- sorb and retain the liquid portions of manure, among which may be mentioned Charcoal, dry Peat or Muck, Saw-dust, or in short any material that will absorb urine or other liquid forms of manure that is not hurtful to vegetation. Since 1855 a material has come largely into use in the vicinity of New York for stable-bedding of horses and cows in lieu of straw. It is imported from Germany, and is known as German Peat Moss. It is simply MAR the decayed Sphagnum of the swamps, from which the water has been expressed, thor- oughly dried, packed in bales and shipped to this country where it is sold at about fourteen dollars per ton. We have had it in use in our stables for over two years and find it to be not only much cheaper than straw, but it has at least three times the value as a deodorizer, and as an absorbent for manure. There is, no doubt abundance of such deposits in the United States, which will doubtless be util- ized as soon as their great value becomes ap- preciated Maple. The common name for the genus Acer. Marajah Palm. See Bactris. Mara'nta. Arrowroot. Named after B. Ma- ranti, an Italian botanist. Nat. Ord. Scitanv- inexz. A genus of tropical herbaceous plants, pretty extensively disseminated from the West to the East Indies. Some of the species are among the finest ornamental leaved plants in cultivation. M. zebrina (known also as Cala- thea zebrina) has leaves two feet long and six inches wide, of a rich deep green, beautifully shaded with a purplish green, and has a soft appearance, resembling the finest velvet. It is a native of Brazil, and was introduced in 1815. M. Sanguinea, an excellent plant for house or window culture is now known as Stromanthe (which see). Many other well- known species are equally ornamental, and occupy a prominent position in choice collec- tions. Several of the species are cultivated in the East and West Indies for the starch that is contained in their tubers, which is very nutritive, and is commercially known as Arrowroot. The term Arrowroot is said to be derived from the fact that the native Indians used the roots of these plants as an applica- tion to wounds inflicted by poisoned arrows. The green-house kinds are of easy culture, heat and water being the main requirements while growing ; they should also be shaded from the sun. We have found it an excellent and economical plan to grow them during the summer months in between large foliaged plants, such as Palms, which give them the necessary conditions of shade and moisture. Increased by division. See Calathea, to which many Marantas have been transferred. Mar a' n tea?. A tribe of Scitamineaz. Mara'ttia. Named after J. F. Maratti, an Ital- ian botanist. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacew. A well-marked genus of hot-house or green- house ferns, natives of South America and the Eastern and Pacific Islands. Being swamp- loving plants they will grow more luxuriantly if placed partially in water ; propagated by spores. Marcgra'via. In honor of George Marcgrave, a German who published a Natural History of Brazil, in 1718. Nat. Ord. Ternstrazmiacece. M. umbellata, one of the best known species, is a sub-parasitical creeping shrub. At first it is radicant, like some Ferns, but as it ad- vances the stem becomes shrubby, adhering still by its fibers to the trunk of some tree, to the top of which it frequently runs, at length dividing into loose pendulous branches, com- monly terminating with umbels of white flowers. It is a native of the cool wooded mountains of Jamaica. It appears in such a 244 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS MAR variety of forms that in the different stages of its growth it has been mistaken for differ- ent plants. The genus is remarkable for the transformation of its smaller leaves into hollow, tubular bodies, resembling the pitchers of some other plants. It succeeds well in the green-house, and is propagated by- cuttings. Marcgra'vieae. A tribe of Ternstramiacece. Marciscent. Permanent; not falling off until the part which bears it is perfected, but with- ering long before that time, as the flowers of Lobelia, Orobanche, etc. Mare's Tail. See Hippurus. Marguerite. Bellis perennis, and Chrysanthe- mum frutescens . Marguerite. Reine. The China Aster, Colli- stephus Chinensis. Margyrica'rpus. From margaron, pearl, and karpos, a fruit; resemblance in white fruit. Nat. Ord. Rosacece. A small genus of branched rigid shrubs found in the temperate regions of South America and the Andes of Patagonia. M. setosus is a pretty little hardy evergreen, well suited for the rockery, and should be so planted that its branches can rest on a dark colored stone, which will show up the fruit to advantage. It was introduced from the Andes in 1829, and is propagated freely by cuttings, or by layers. Maria'nthus. From Maria, Mary, and anthus, a flower ; dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Nat. Ord. Pittosporacem. A small genus of green-house deciduous climbers, natives of Australia. M. cceruleo- punctatus has pretty pale blue, spotted flow- ers, and is propagated by cuttings; intro- duced in 1840. Ma'rica. From maraino, to flag; referring to the ephemeral nature of the flowers, which last hardly a day. Nat. Ord. Iridacew. A small genus of fibrous-rooted plants, with very beautiful but transient flowers, some- what resembling the Tigridia. They all grow freely, are increased by division or from seed, and require the protection of the green- house while at rest during winter. They are natives of Central and South America, and were first brought into notice in 1782. Ma'rigold. See Calendula and Tagetes. Marigold. Corn. Chrysanthemum segetum. Marigold. Marsh. See Caltha palustris. Mariposa Lily. The genus Calochortus. Marjoram. See Origanum. Marker. This is a simple implement used mostly by market gardeners to line out drills. It is often home-made by taking a piece of joist 3x4 inches, and about six feet in length, and to each side nailing pointed slats eight or nine inches long, at a width apart usually, on one side of fourteen inches, and the other of nine inches. Two handles four or five feet in length are fastened to it, by which it is dragged, the teeth marking the rows. If wanted deep a weight is placed on the joist. In operating it a line is stretched across the bed to be sown or planted, the first teeth be- ing guided by the line ; it is steadily dragged along the bed, making from four to six lines MAR at once, in a much more uniform manner than can be done with the hoe. Marking Nut Tree. See Semecarpus. Marmorate. Marbled; traversed by irregular veins of color. Marrow, Vegetable. Cucurbita Pepo var. ovifera. Marru'bium. Horehound. From marrob, a Hebrew word signifying a bitter juice ; in al- lusion to the extreme bitterness of the plants. Nat. Ord. Labiatm. M. vulgare is the common Horehound of our gardens. The plant is a native of Europe, but has become naturalized, and is as familiar as an indigenous plant in the United States. Of the several species, this is the only one val- ued, and this only for its tonic properties. Marsde'nia. Named after William Marsden, author of a history of Sumatra. Nat. Ord. Asclepiadacem. A genus of green-house or half-hardy twin- ing, or sub-erect shrubs, natives of New Hol- land, Moluccas, tropical America, and the East Indies. M. tenacissima furnishes a valu- able fibre, and M. tincloria and M. parviflora yield by decoction a blue dye resembling in- digo. Propagated by cuttings. Syn. Gono- lobus. Marsha'llia. Named for Humphrey Marshall, of Pennsylvania, author of Arbustrum Amerir canum, one of the earliest works on the trees and shrubs of this country. Nat. Ord. Com- posite. A genus of herbaceous perennials, common to Virginia, and southward. The leaves are alternate, entire, and glabrous ; flower scape about one foot high, with a single terminal head of purple or rose flowers, resembling those of the Scabious. Marsh Cinquefoil. A common name for Co- marum palustre. Marsh Mallow. See Althcsa. Marsh Marigold. See Caltha. Marsh Rosemary. See Statice. Marsh Trefoil. Menyanthes trifoliata. Marsi'lea. Linnaeus dedicated this genus to the Count L. F. Marsigli, founder of the Acad- emy of Science, Bologna. Nat. Ord. Marsil- eaceai. A genus of curious, low-growing aquatics inhabiting Brazil, Australia, Africa, and the south of Europe. They are termed pseudo- ferns, and are very interesting plants for the aquarium. Martagon Lily. See Lilium Martagon. Martine'zia. In honor of Balthassar Martinez, a Spanish naturalist. Nat. Ord. Palmacem. A small genus of Palms, mostly of dwarf habit, natives of Central America. A few of the species are under cultivation for decora- tive purposes. Marty'nia. Unicorn Plant. Named after Dr. Martyn, once Professor of Botany at Cam- bridge, England ; he died in 1768. Nat. Ord. Pedaliacem. A genus of hardy and half-hardy annuals, growing from two to three feet high, branch- ing, with heart-shaped leaves, the whole being covered with clammy hairs. Some of the species are quite ornamental, but too coarse- MERTENSIA VIRGINICA. MARTYNIA PROBOSCIDEA.. MARTYNIA FRAGRANS. MALVAVISCUS ARBOREA. MANGrFERA (MANGO). MATRICARIA INODORA FL. PL. MELOTHBIA PUNCTATA. MESEMBRYANTHEMUM (TRICOLOR). MEDICAGO LUMJLINA (YELLOW TREFOIL CLOVER). ME6EMBRYANTHEMTJM CORDIFOLIUM VARIEGATUM. 245 AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 245 MAR growing for handsome border plants. M. pro- boscidea is indigenous to southern Illinois and southward, but is most common on the banks of the Mississippi. It is grown in the garden for the young seed pods, which are used to some extent for pickling. They require to be placed three feet apart each way ; at that dis- tance, in rich soil, the plants will completely cover the ground. Seed should be sown where it is to grow, in April and May. Maru'ta Cotula. May-weed. A common field weed. Marvel of Peru. See Mirabilis. Masdeva'llia. Named after J. Masdevall, a Spanish botanist. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. An extensive genus of epiphytal Orchids from South America. The flowers are re- markable for their singularity, and also for their beauty. They require to be grown in a lower temperature than most Orchids, and are increased by division. First introduced in 1835. Mask Flower. See Alonsoa. Massa'ngea. A small genus of Bromeliacece, now included by Bentham and Hooker under Caraguata. They are grown principally for the elegance of their leaves. Masso'nia. Named after F. Masson, a botan- ical traveler in South Africa. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. A genus of small Cape bulbs. The leaves are commonly two in number, lying flat on the ground. The flowers are in an umbel- like head, nearly sessile, between the leaves. The flowers are sword-shaped, usually white, and of little beauty. They may be wintered in a frame or kept in sand in the green-house, and are increased by offsets. Introduced in 1791. Mato'nia. Named after Dr. Maton, once Presi- dent of the LinnsBan Society, London. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. M. pectinata, the only species, is a rare and handsome stove-house Fern, with large fan- shaped fronds, one and a half to two feet wide, very hard and leathery. It was intro- duced from Borneo in 1839, and is increased by spores or division. Matrica'ria. So called from its former use in medicine. Nat. Ord. Composites. A genus of about seventy species of annual, rarely perennial, branched herbs ; natives of Europe, Africa and western Asia. Few of the species are worthy of cultivation ; the annual sorts are easily raised from seed, the peren- nial by division or by cuttings. M. inodora Jtore-pleno a double form of a common British weed, is a very free-flowering and desirable border plant. It is also known in cultivation as Anthemits Chamomillajlore-pleno. Ma'tthiola. Stock-Gilliflower. Named after P. Mathioli, an Italian botanist. Nat. Ord. Cruciferce. In this genus we have the well-known Stock in all its multifarious varieties. These, for the purposes of culture, are classed in two divisions : the biennial kinds, as the Bromp- ton, Queen, etc., and the annual or Ten-Week Stocks. The former require to be sown the season previous to that in which they are wanted to flower. They do best when sown in May or June in the open air, allowing them MAT. to grow up strong, and when about two inches high they should be potted singly in small pots. This is for the purpose of protecting them through the winter, as in very severe weather, or a long continuance of wet, they perish ; but being potted and put in a frame they are perfectly safe as they become harder and better ripened, and in the succeeding spring may be placed where they are to bloom. The seeds of Ten-Week Stocks should be sown in a hot-bed or green-house in February or March. As soon as the plants have com- pleted their second leaves, prick out into shallow boxes, and in three or four weeks they will be ready to pot in thumb pots, and the plants will be sufficiently large for trans- planting by the end of the following April. Much attention is paid to the saving of this seed on the Continent, and as many as twelve distinct colors may now be selected ; a great many more are advertised, but they are in- distinct, and we think it preferable to have a few decided and brilliant colors than a multi- tude of indefinite shades, several of which are nearly duplicates of each other. The colors run through all the shades of crimson, lilac, rose, white, etc. There are no true scarlets, though some catalogues continue yearly to offer such colors. One of the first requisites to insure good double Stocks is to put the ground intended for them in the very best possible condition. It is a great mistake, and but too common, to suppose that the soil for flowers need not be rich ; for we are of opinion, from observation, that, to a great extent, the double state is only brought about by excess of vigor, and if this condition is lost by planting in impoverished ground, it is only reasonable to suppose that the flowers will degenerate to their normal condition. Another common error deserves notice, re- specting the choice of plants to bear seed. It is very generally supposed that, to insure seed which will produce double flowers in the following season, it is necessary that the seed-bearing plants stand in close proximity to others which have their flowers double, because it is supposed the single flowers are impregnated with the pollen of the double ones ; but to prove the fallacy of this suppo- sition it is only necessary carefully to ex- amine the latter, and they will be found alto- gether devoid of the organs bearing pollen. The great secret in the production of seed likely to bring double flowers is, we believe, to impart extraordinary vigor to the single plants which are to bear it, and every means available should be resorted to for this end. There is no good reason why as good seed should not be grown in some portions of the United States as in any part of the world. In fact, the finest Stocks we have ever seen were grown from seed saved in the western part of the State of New York, and that from Stocks that had been grown a number of years in order to fairly test the question as to whether Stocks as well as other seeds cannot be produced as well here as in Germany ; and the question is settled, that one of our large dealers grows and saves his own seed, and that which gives the greatest satisfaction to his customers. To save seed let the largest pods from the strongest plants be selected, and the seed placed in good ground, and there will be no lack of double flowers. The In- 246 HENDEKSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS MAT termediate Stock is an excellent kind to grow in pots for early spring decoration. The seed should be sown about midsummer for this purpose, and the young plants, after being potted, should be brought up as robust as possible ; keeping them in frames through the winter until they are in bloom, when they tend to make the green-house gay in March, and in April may be turned into the flower garden, where they continue to bloom for a length of time. Double varieties may be per- petuated by striking the side shoots at mid- summer, under a hand glass, as is practiced with pinks, but this trouble is hardly neces- sary if the foregoing directions are observed. There are several other species included in the genus, only one of which, however, is often seen beyond the precincts of the purely botanical collection, this one is the Matthiola tristis, or Night-scented Stock. It is a curious looking plant, with narrow, glaucous foliage, and small, lurid colored flowers, emitting an agreeable fragrance in the evening, and on this account is yet preserved along with its more gay associates. It requires to be grown in the green-house, with the ordinary man- agement of plants belonging to that structure, and is readily increased by cuttings. M. annua is the original of all the varieties of the Ten-Week Stocks, and M. Grmca of the wall-leaved or smooth-leaved Annual Stock ; both of which are natives of the South of Europe, and were favorably mentioned as " flowers for the garden for pleasure " by Parkinson in 1629. Matrimony Vine. See Lycium. Maturation. The process of ripening ; also the time when fruits are ripe. Maura'ndya. Named after Professor Maurandy, of Carthagena. Nat. Ord. Scrophulariacem. A handsome genus of tender climbing per- ennial plants from Mexico, with violet, pink, purple, and white colored flowers. All the species are profuse bloomers, and may be treated as annuals, or increased by cuttings. The seed should be sown in February or March, in a hot-bed or in the green-house, and pricked out into shallow boxes, and then into small pots, and grown on until it is time to plant out tender annuals. They are admirable for any sunny situation where a delicate climbing plant is required. They commence to flower in August, and continue until after there has been six to eight degrees of frost. By taking the roots up in the fall, potting, and placing them in a cool green-house or warm cellar, they can be planted out again in spring, and will come into flower much earlier than plants grown from seed. There are two erect growing species from California that we have not yet had an opportunity to test. The genus is allied to Antirrhinum, to which the flowers have a great resemblance. Lophospermum is included in this genus by some authors. In- troduced in 1796. Mauri'tia. Named after Prince Maurice of Nas- sau. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. A genus of Palms peculiar to tropical South America. They grow to an immense size, some species attaining the height of 100 or 150 feet. They bear a crown of enormous fan- shaped leaves, from among which the pendu- lous flower-spikes are produced. The species are abundant on the banks of the Amazon, MED Kio Negro, and Orinoco Eivers. They usually occupy swampy tracts of ground, which are at times completely inundated, and present the appearance of forests rising out of the water. Mawseed. The seeds of Papaver somniferum. Maxilla'ria. From maxillm, the jaws of an in- sect; referring to a resemblance of the columns and labellum. Nat. Ord. Orchidacea. An extensive genus of epiphytal Orchids. Many of the species are very beautiful, and of delicious fragrance ; others, on account of their small flowers, are not worthy of cultiva- tion. Some of them have their flowers hang- ing down from the pseudo-bulbs, and are grown in baskets of moss or on pieces of cork, or hung by wires to the rafters of the Orchid house. All of them are adapted to the cool house. Maximilia'na. Named after Prince Maximilian. Nat. Ord. Palmacem. M. regia, the only known species, is an im- mense-growing Palm of the Amazon. It& trunk often exceeds 100 feet in height, and is crowned with leaves from thirty to fifty feet long, and its woody spathes, when open, fre- quently measure as much as five or six feet in length, by about two feet in width, tapering to a long point or beak. These spathes are so hard that when filled with water they will stand the fire, and are sometimes used by the Indians as cooking utensils, but more fre- quently as baskets for carrying their stores. May Apple. See Podophyllum. May Flower. See Epigcza. Mayte'nus. From Mayten, the Chilian name of the genus. Nat. Ord. CelastracecB. A genus of evergreen shrubs or small trees with alternate coriaceous leaves, and small flowers, solitary, or clustered in the axils. The arborescent species have very hard wood, and the leaves of the commonest Peruvian species, although astringent, are said to be greedily devoured by cattle. They are seldom found in cultivation. May Tree or May Bush. See Cratcsgus. May Weed. The popular name of the genus Maruta. Meadow Beauty. See Rhexia. Meadow Clary. Salvia pratensis. Meadow Grass. See Poa pratensis. Meadow Pink. A common name of Dianthus deltoides. Meadow Rue. See Thalictrum. Meadow Saffron. See Colchicum. Meadow Sweet. See Spir&a Ulmaria. Mealy. Covered with a scurfy powder. Mealy Bug. See Insects. Mecono'psis. From mekon, the poppy, and opsis, like. Nat. Ord. Papaveraceaz. A genus of hardy herbaceous perennials, natives of Britain, north-west America, and the Himalayas. M. cambrica, common in Wales where it is known as Welsh Poppy, is a showy plant, growing about one foot high, with bright-green pinnate, hairy leaves, slender stems, and large terminal, short-lived flowers, of a delicate sulphur yellow color. Propagated by seeds or by division. Mede'ola. Indian Cucumber root. Named after Medea, the sorceress. Nat. Or J. Liliacem. AND GENEKAL HOKTICULTURE. 247 MED M. Virginica, the only species, is a hardy herbaceous perennial, common from Virginia southward. It has a creeping, tuberous root, tasting like a cucumber, from which the plant derives its local name, Indian Cucumber. It has an erect, simple stem, with sessile leaves produced in whorls, with a terminal umbel of small, greenish-yellow flowers. Medica'go. Medick. From mediko, a name given by Dioscorides to a Median Grass. Nat. Ord. Leguminosat. A genus of weedy-looking plants, with yel- low pea-flowers which are generally single or in small clusters. The seed pods in many of the species, are very curious, some resem- bling snails, others hedgehogs, and others bee- hives. They were formerly found in seed- men's catalogues under these various names, and recommended to garnish dishes of meat, etc. They are now seldom met, as the plants to which they belong are found not worth growing. M. lupulina, the yellow Trefoil, is an excellent fodder plant, either alone or when mixed with grasses. It starts very early in the spring, is very productive, and grows rapidly. M. saliva is the well-known Alfalfa, or Lucerne, now extensively used in California and many other parts of the world as a forage crop. It is particularly fitted from its deep-rooting properties, for dry, barren soils. In some sections of California five crops are cut annually, and at this writing it is considered the most valuable forage crop of the State. See Alfalfa. Medick. See Medicago. Medini'lla. Named after J. de Medinilla y Pin- eda, Governor of the Marianne Islands. Nat. Ord. Melastomacece. A small genus of East Indian evergreen shrubby plants, with large fleshy leaves, and large pendulous racemes of white or rose- colored flowers. Tne species generally met in our green-house is M. magnifica, a plant that truly deserves the name. Its enemy in the green-house is the mealy bug, which is very sure to find it. It is propagated by cut- tings, and requires considerable heat to grow it in perfection. Introduced in 1884. Medlar. See Mespilus. Medlar. Japanese. See Photinia Japonica. Medulla, Medullary. The pith of a plant; that central column of cellular matter over which the wood is formed in Exogens. Medusa's Head. Euphorbia Caput- Medusa. Megacli'nium. From megas, large and Mine, a bed ; referring to the axis or rachis on which the flowers are borne. Nat. Ord. Orchidacete. A small genus of epiphytal Orchids of tropical western Africa, closely allied to Bulbophyllum, remarkable for the curious flattened, sword- shaped flower stalks, upon which the curious little flowers are seated in a straight row along the middle on both sides. The flowers are of a greenish or yellowish brown, spotted more or less with purple. Some of them have a fancied resemblance to little frogs or toads, whence one species has been named M. bufo. They are seldom met except in large collections. Megarrhi'za. Big-Root. From megas, large, and rhiza, root ; alluding to the large tuberous root stocks. Nat. Ord. Cuewbitacece. MEL A genus of tuberous rooted, climbing plants with small white flowers which are produced in early spring, the leaves are cordate, pal- mately lobed or angled. ' ' A genus confined to the Pacific coast, the species not all known, nearly allied to the Echinocystus of the Atlantic States, to which it has been referred, but from which it is separated by its thick perennial roots, its large turgid emarginate seeds, and its thick fleshy cotyledons, which remain under ground in germination. The fruit in some species appears to be wholly indehis- cent." Cal. Bot. Mega'sea. A genus now included under Saxi- fraga. Melale'uca. From melas, black, and leukos, white ; referring to the color of the old and young bark. Nat. Ord. Myrtacem. This genus consists of evergreen trees and shrubs, natives of Australia and the islands in the Indian Ocean. They have alternate flat or cylindrical leaves, and yellowish, purple, or crimson flowers produced in axillary clusters. M. leucadendron minor is one of the more im- portant species the leaves of which after fer- mentation are distilled for the purpose of yielding the well-known Cajeput Oil, a limpid, very volatile, powerfully aromatic oil, of a bluish-green color, highly valued as a pre- servative of all preparations of natural his- tory. The leaves of this species are used as a tonic, and the bark is used as oakum and for thatching houses. Numerous species are grown as green-house plants, on account of the simplicity of their foliage and the beauty of their clustered flowers. Melampy'rum. Cow-wheat. A genus of Scrophulariacea, natives of Europe and west- ern Asia, one being very broadly dispersed over Asia and North America. M. arvense has large oblong spikes of flowers, variegated with yellow, green, and crimson, and forms quite a conspicuous object in the corn fields in the Isle of Wight, England. Our native species M. Americanum is common in open woods and is inconspicuous. Melana'nthon. Dark-flowered. Melanoca'ulon. Black-stemmed. Melantha'ceae. A natural order included by Bentham and Hooker under LiliacecB. Mela'nthium. From melos, black, and anthos, a flower ; referring to the dusky flowers. Nat. Ord. Melanthacece. A small genus of half-hardy bulbs, requiring the protection of the green-house or pit dur- ing winter. The flowers are white, yellow or pink, and some with nearly black flowers. All have very much the appearance of small Ixias. They grow in a light soil, flower in early summer, and are increased by offsets ; intro- duced in 1797. Melasphae'rula. From melas, black, and spKce- rula, a ball ; referring to the blackish bulbs. Nat. Ord. Iridaceoe. A small genus of very pretty green-house plants of graceful habit, producing a pro- fusion of yellow or yellowish-green flowers which remain in perfection for a considerable time. They are natives of the Cape of Good Hope, and require to be treated similarly to the Ixias. Syn. Agkm and Diasia. 248 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS MEL Mela'stoma. From melos, black, and stoma, a mouth; the black berries of certain species when eaten stain the mouth. Nat. Ord. Me- lastomacece. This genus contains a considerable number of species, distributed over tropical Asia and the islands of the Indian and Pacific oceans, extending as far south as Moreton Bay. • The plants are small shrubs, covered with close- pressed hairs, and have large violet-purple, pale rose, or white flowers, mostly in fascicles at the summit of the branches. Propagated in spring by cuttings. Melastoma'ceae. A natural order of trees, herbs, or shrubs, with opposite, ribbed leaves and showy flowers. They are found chiefly in warm climates, though some are natives of more temperate regions. There are no un- wholesome plants in the order, and the suc- culent fruit of several is edible. There are over one hundred genera, and nearly two thousand species. Illustrative genera are Pleroma, Rhexia, Miconia, and Bertolonia. Melha'nia. From Mount Melhan, in Arabia Felix, where the original species was first found. Nat. Ord. Stercul&cem. A genus of about sixteen species of orna- mental trees or shrubs, natives of Africa, the warmer parts of Asia, and tropical Australia. M. erythroxylon is a handsome green-house plant, with white flowers changing to pink, and ovate, cordate leaves, tomentose beneath. It is a native of St. Helena, and only a very few individuals now exist in its native habitat. M. melanoxylon, also from St. Helena, has, within comparatively recent years, become quite extinct in a wild state, and probably no longer exists in cultivation. Me'lia. Bead Tree. From Melia, the Greek name for the Ash ; in allusion to the resem- blance in the leaves. Nat. Ord. Meliacea. A small genus of tropical trees and shrubs, with alternate pinnate orbipinnate leaves, and flowers borne in panicles. M. Azedarach, com- monly known as the Pride of India, False Sycamore, Holy Tree, Arbre a Chapelet, Bead Tree, Hill Margosa, and in our Southern States also as Umbrella China Tree and China Berry, is, says Dr. Masters, " widely diffused over the globe, having been carried to America, Africa, and different parts of southern Europe. It is from thirty to fifty feet high, with bi-pinnate leaves, and large bunches of fragrant, lilac- colored flowers, which are succeeded by a fruit about the size of a Cherry, with an ex- ternal pulp and a hard nut within. In south- ern France and Spain the tree thrives well in the open air, as it does in our Southern States. The Arabic name, Azedarach, implies a poisonous plant, and the fruit is generally considered so. The root is bitter and nau- seous, and is used as an anthelmintic. The tree is supposed to possess febrifugal properties, and a decoction of the leaves is used as a remedy for hysterics. It derives the name Bead Tree on account of the use made of the seeds in Catholic countries where the nuts are threaded for beads, for which purpose they are peculiarly suited, having a natural perfora- tion through the centre ; hence the tree has been called Arbor Sancta." We make the following extract from the American Agriculturist : "The tree is not hardy north of Virginia, but south- ward it is a common street tree, and frequent MEL around country places. The ease with which it may be transplanted and its rapid growth are somewhat offset by the readiness with which its branches are broken by high winds. Its wood makes excellent fuel, is durable, and is used for furniture. There has been in- troduced from Texas, within a few years, a marked variety.calledtheUmbrellaChinaTree. Several years ago we saw a small specimen of this in the extensive collection of P. J. Berck- mans, near Augusta, Ga., which promised to be valuable, and now we have a photograph of a tree in Abbeville, Ala., taken by J. C. Mangold, to show the remarkably compact habit and umbrella-like form. Mr. J. A. Cien- dinen sends an account of the tree, from which we learn that the foliage is so dense that it will turn almost any rainfall. It does not fruit so abundantly as the ordinary form of the tree, but, what is quite remarkable, the variety is reproduced from the seed. This variety of the favorite China Tree will com- mend itself to our readers in the Southern States, as it has naturally the compact habit that is somewhat imperfectly produced in the ordinary form of the tree by severe cutting. China Berries, as the fruit of the tree is usu- ally called, are eaten by sheep and goats, which in winter require but little other food ; cows are fond of them, but they impart an un- pleasant taste to the milk. The hard stone is sometimes bored and strung to make rosa- ries ' and necklaces, hence the tree is known in some countries as the Bead Tree.'' Melia'ceae. A natural order of trees and shrubs with alternate, pinnate leaves, without stipules, flowering in panicles. They are natives of the tropics of America and India, and very rare in Africa. The flowers of this order are generally fragrant, aromatic, and tonic. Many supply compact beautifully- veined timber, such as the well-known Ma- hogany of tropical America (Swietenia Mahog- oni), the Satin-wood of India (Chloroxylon Swietenia), the Yellow-wood of New South Wales (Oxleya xanthoxyla), the Red-wood of Coromandel (Soymidafebrifuga), and the Toon of India, or Simal-Kun of the Lepchas (Ced- rela Toona). A kind of oil is procured from Satin-wood, and the barks of Cedrela febrifuga, as well as the Mahogany Tree, and others, are used medicinally in intermittent fevers, euC. There are nine known genera and twenty-five species. Swietenia, Cedrela, Flindersia, and Soymida are examples of the order. Melia'ntheae. A tribe of Sapindacem. Melia'nthus. Honey Flower. From meli, honey, and anthos, a flower ; the tubes contain a' copious supply of honey-like juice. Nat. Ord. Sapindacem. A small genus of ornamental shrubs or small trees from the Cape of Good Hope, pro- ducing axillary or terminal clusters of purple flowers, from which the natives obtain honey for food by shaking the branches. They are rarely, if ever, introduced into the green- house, and it is difficult to make them flower. M. major is an old green-house plant, the leaves of which have a peculiar odor, which has given it the name of "Pease Meal Plant." It is easily raised from seed and forms a very ornamental plant with smooth, glaucous, deeply-cut leaves; largely em- ployed in sub-tropical gardening. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 249 MEL Meli'chrus. From melichroa, honey-colored, in reference to the color of the glands of the flower. Nat. Ord. Epacridacece. A small genus of ornamental green-house shrubs, with a procumbent or somewhat erect habit ; natives of eastern, temperate Australia. They have erect, showy, scarlet flowers with sessile lanceolate leaves, and are propagated by cuttings of the half-ripened shoots. Meli'cope. From meli, honey, and hope, a division ; in allusion to the four honey glands at the base of the ovaries. Nat. Ord. Ruta- cecB. A genus of about fifteen species of green- house shrubs, natives of New Zealand and the Pacific Islands. M. ternata, the only species yet in cultivation, has greenish-white, rather small flowers, borne in axillary many- flowered cymes. It was introduced from New Zealand in 1822, and is propagated by cuttings of the small side shoots. Melilo'tus. Sweet Clover. From meli, honey, and Lotus. The plants are said to be the favorite resort of bees. Nat. Ord. Legumi- nosecB. This genus consists of about twenty species, mostly belonging to southern and central Europe and western Asia. Some of the species are grown in their native countries aa forage plants. M. officinalis, with yellow flowers, and M. alba, with white flowers, are common on the roadsides in the United States, having become naturalized from Europe, and are sometimes cultivated as " Bee Plants." Meli'ssa. Balm. From melissa, a bee ; liter- ally, a bee-flower. Nat. Ord. Labiatce. A genus of hardy, herbaceous perennials. The different species being widely diffused throughout Europe, middle Asia, and by naturalization in the United States. M. officinalis has varieties having delightfully fragrant leaves finely marked with yellow and white, known as Golden and Silver Balm. They are all hardy perennials, and propagated by cuttings and by division of the roots. Meli'ttis. Bee Balm. From melitta, a form of the Greek melissa, a bee, to which Insect the plant was considered specially grateful. Nat. Ord. Labiates. M. Melissophyllumwidelj diffused in Europe, is a very handsome hardy perennial, with large creamy-white flowers, spotted pink or purple. It is most distinct in character, and should be grown extensively on the margins of shrubberies, and in herbaceous borders generally. Propagated by division. Melleous. Having the taste or smell of honey. Melliferous. Honey-bearing. Meloca'ctus. Melon Thistle. From melos, a melon, and cactus ; in allusion to the appear- ance of the plants. Nat Ord. CactacecB. A sectional genus of Cactus, differing from Echinocactus in having the flowers produced on a head or cushion covered with dense, woolly and bristly hairs, and beset with spines, while those of the Echinocactus issue from the bare ribs or angles. M. communis, the Turk's Cap Cactus, so called from the flower- ing portion on the top of the plant being of a cylindrical form and red color, like a fez cap, is a fair representative of this class. In South America and in many of the West MEN Indian Islands it is very common, covering large tracts of barren soil. Notwithstanding the arid places in which they grow, they con- tain a considerable quantity of moisture, and the mules resort to them when hard pressed for water, carefully removing the spines with their fore-feet previous to quenching their thirst with the juice. They are not often seen in cultivation, and are more grotesque than beautiful. Melodi'nus. From melon, an Apple, and dineo, to turn round ; referring to the shape of the fruit. Nat. Ord. ApocynacecB. A genus of woody-stemmed often climbing plant-stove shrubs, natives of the East Indies, China, the Malayan Archipelago, the Pacific Islands and Australia. They are very ornamental plants, closely allied to Dipladenia and are well worthy of cultivation for their showy flowers. D. monogynus has large, white, fragrant flowers, borne in axillary and terminal panicles, followed by four-cornered yellow fruits, the size of an orange, contain- ing an edible pulp. It was introduced from northern India in 1820. Melon. Musk. Cacumis Melo. See Musk- Melon. Melon-Thistle. See Melocactus. Melon. Water. Cucumis Citrullus. See Water- Melon. Melon- Wood. A yellow Mexican wood, which resembles Sander's wood ; used for furniture. Melo'thria punctata. This is given in " Nichol- son's Dictionary of Gardening " as the cor- rect name of the beautiful little climbing cucurbitaceous plant known as Pilogyne suavis. It is a native of South Africa, and was introduced to this country by way of Germany in 1875. See Pilogyne. Meni'scium. A group of ten species of very distinct, though coarse-habited Ferns, with simple, or once-pinnate fronds. The sori are naked, linear-oblong and curved, placed on the transverse venules. Sometimes the fronds are contracted and the fructification becomes crowded, almost like Acrostichum. Menisperma'ceae. A natural order of trailing shrubs with alternate, simple, usually entire leaves, and incomplete, usually unisexual flowers. They occur in the tropical woods of Asia and America, and have bitter and nar- cotic properties, some being very poisonous. There about thirty genera, and three hundred species. Illustrative examples are Anamirta, Cissampelos and Menispermum. Menispe'rmum. Moon-seed. From mene, the moon, and sperma, a seed ; the fruit is kidney or half-moon shaped; whence the English name Moon-seed. Nat. Ord. Menispermacea;. A small genus of handsome climbing shrubs, natives of the Northern States and Europe, with curiously-shaped leaves, racemes of yellowish or greenish-white flowers, and red or black berries, which have some- what of an intoxicating quality. M. Canadense, which is the commonest species, is a very ornamental, hardy, free-growing climber, ad- mirably adapted for covering a wall or arbor in a very short time. It is well deserving of general cultivation, and yet it is comparatively little known, perhaps on account of the modest color of its elegant little drooping racemes of 250 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLA*NTS MEN flowers, which are generally hidden from common observers by the leaves. It looks very well on a lawn trained up a single pole, and with the extremity of its branches left to spread themselves to the wind at pleasure. It also looks very well trained to form a pillar, or to a frame with an umbrella-top, etc. Propagated by cuttings, severely that the young shoots of the Roses hung down and we thought they were ruined. The next morning, however, they appeared all right ; but in a few days after Mildew appear- ed in the square space (3x3 feet) with the lines nearly as closely defined as if struck out with a rule, the other portions of the Rose- house being entirely free from it. Now we reason from this incident, and others nearly as marked, that spores or germs of mildew are nearly always present, floating in the atmos- phere, and that when a congenial soil, so to speak, is formed by a relaxed condition of the plant, the floating germ is sown on the enfeebled leaves, and the parasite starts into the low organic life known as Mildew. For- tunately, we have a rarely-failing antidote against Mildew. Sulphur, applied in various forms, is almost a certain specific. For Grape Vines, Roses or other plants affected by Mildew outdoors, the flowers of sulphur applied by the sulphur bellows, when used in the early stage of the attack, will at once check it ; but when Mildew attacks Roses or Grape Vines under glass in winter, the best plan is to paint the hot water pipes with a wash of sulphur and lime or sulphur and guano (the guano or lime is only used to make the sulphur stick to the pipes) every eight or ten days. The fumes of the sul- phur, evolved by the heated water in the pipes (about 200 degrees), is certain destruction to the germ-producing Mildew. When flues are used instead of hot-water pipes, the sulphur wash may be used on them ; but care must be taken that it is only on the end of the flues farthest from the furnace, as, if much hotter than 200 degrees it will injure the leaves; but no harm can ever ensue from its use on the hot-water pipes or on the smoke flue, if not hotter than 200 degrees. At seasons when no fires are used, the following prepar- ation will usually be found a prompt remedy against Mildew : take six pounds each of flowers of sulphur and lump lime, put together and slake the lime, adding ten gallons of water. Boil all together until it is reduced to four gallons ; allow the liquid to settle until it gets clear, and then bottle for use. One gill only of this is to be mixed with five gallons of water, and syringed freely over the plants, care being taken not to let it drop on expand- ed flowers or ripe fruit, as its odor is very disagreeable. Mr. Chas. E. Pearson, of Chil- well, in an article on the culture of the Chry- santhemum, see "Journal of Horticulture," London, December, 1888, says : "If Mildew ap- pears while the plants are outside, syringe with the following : 1 pound soap, % pound sulphur, and ten gallons of water, mix with boiling water, and add the remaining quantity cold ; stir constantly while using. This is a perfect cure, and far before any method of dusting sulphur, etc. After they are housed, a coat of linseed oil and sulphur on the pipes is a good preventive. I have not seen a speck of mildew in all our large show houses this MIM season, which I attribute to this precaution." This linseed oil and sulphur cure was first brought before the public some years ago by Mr. Arch. Veitch, of New Haven, Conn., in a communication to the " Gardeners' Monthly," the editor of which, Mr. Thos. Meehan, in a communication to the "Journal of Horticul- ture," February, 1889, says : * * "I have seen it tried over and over again, and have no hesitation in saying, that it not only prevents Mildew from appearing in a plant-house but will speedily stop its progress after it com- mences its ravages." It may moreover, be used on steam pipes, or on hot flues with perfect safety, the oil seeming to modify the acrid fumes of the sulphur and render them innocuous. Milfoil. See Achillea. Milium. Millet Grass. Milk-Thistle. Silybum Marianvm. Milk-Tree. See Brosimum. Milk Vetch. See Astragalus. Milk-Vine. Periploca grmca. Milk-Weed. See Asclepias, a name also given to Euphorbia. Milk-Wort. The genus Polygala. Mi'lla. Named after J. Milla, gardener to the Spanish Court at Madrid. Nat. Ord. Liliaceai. A genus of hardy bulbs, allied to Tritelia with which it is often confounded. M. biflora, the only cultivated species, grows freely in the open border, producing white flowers often in pairs, on a slender scape about a foot high. It flowers in July and August, con- tinuing a long time in succession. It was introduced from Mexico in 1826, and is increased by seeds or offsets. Millet-Grass. The common name of Milium. Mille'tia. Named after J. A. Millet, a French botanist. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. A genus of tall-climbing trees or shrubs, natives of Australia, and the warmer parts of Asia and Africa. M. megasperma, introduced from Queensland, has glossy dark green leaves and loose panicled racemes of showy purple flowers, resembling in habit the Wis- taria Chinensis. Milto'nia. Named after the Earl Fitzwilliam. Nat. Ord. Orchidacem. This small genus stands conspicuously prominent, even in the magnificent order to which it belongs, on account of the number and beauty of its flowers. Nor are they at all difficult of management, requiring only to be treated in the manner recommended for Lm- lia or Cattleya; and when grown into a tolerably good specimen, nothing can exceed the grandeur of M. spectabilis or M. Candida, the large size and delicate white of the sepals and petals, contrasted with the rich crimson marking of the expansive lip of the former, when seen in any quantity, fully equal the most showy of the order. Either or both of the above should always be included in every collection of Orchids. The genus consists of about a dozen species, all natives of Brazil ; introduced in 1840. Mimo'sa Sensitive Plant. From mimos, a mimic; referring to the irritability of the leaves, as if imitating animal sensibility. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. To this genus belongs the Sensitive Plant, of which there may be said to be three spe- AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 255 MIM oies, the leaves of all of which shrink to the touch, viz. : M. sensitive/, and pudica, natives of Brazil, growing two to three feet high, with pale ball-like pink flowers; and M. casta, a native of the East Indies, growing about two feet high, with pale yellow flowers. M. pudica is the true Sensitive Plant, and the one that is usually grown, being more sensitive than M. sensitiva. It is cultivated as an annual, and should be raised on a hot-bed or in the green-house in spring, with the tender an- nuals ; and either kept in pots throughout the summer, or turned out into the open border about the end of May. Many species formerly included under the genus Mimosa are now re- moved to Acacia; the principal distinction between the genera being that Mimosa has a jointed seed-pod, which Acacia has not. Sev- eral other genera have also been formed out of Mimosa. Some of the kinds are hot-house plants ; others thrive in a green-house ; and M. marginata (the M. prostrata of the nurs- eries) is sufficiently hardy to stand the winter at the South. They are propagated by cut- tings ; the annuals by seeds. A singular fact in connection with the Mimosa pudica is said to be, that if chloroform be applied to the plant, its sensitiveness is suspended until the effects of the anesthetic have passed off. Mi'mulus. Monkey Flower. From mimo, an ape or actor ; in reference to the ringent or gaping mouth of the flower. Nat. Ord. Scro- phulariacem. This genus, among the most ornamental of our hardy and half-hardy herbaceous plants, is found dispersed over America, Asia, Aus- tralia, and Africa, but most numerous in western America. Two species have broken out into numberless varieties : these are M. cardinalis, and M. luteus, and the latter, espec- ially seems capable of bringing a great deal of variety to the aid of the flower-gardener. All of these, andilf. moschatus, or Musk Plant, as it is called, are valuable aids in that department, and are very generally grown for the purpose, being very prolific of flowers. M. cupreus, introduced from Chili in 1861, is also the origin of a great number of very beautiful hybrids known as M. maculosus. They are all easily propagated by seeds, cuttings, or by division of the roots. Mi'musops. From mimo, an ape, and opsis, a face; the flowers may be fancied to resemble the face of a monkey. Nat. Ord. Sapotacem. A genus of ornamental trees with a milky juice, "the better known species of which are found in the East Indies, tropical Australia, the Cape of Good Hope, and Brazil. They are very ornamental, showy trees, with entire, smooth leaves, and small white, often sweet- smelling flowers. Several species yield hard, durable and very heavy timber, such as M. Elengi and M. Indica, in Ceylon, where the wood is used for ordinary house-building pur- poses, and M. hexandra, in the peninsula of India. A species called the Bully-tree, or Bullet-tree, in British Guiana, grows over 100 feet high, with a trunk six feet in diameter, affording a very close-grained timber of an exceedingly durable nature, being but little influenced by the weather. Its small fruits, about the size of coffee-berries, are delicious when ripe. The fruits of other species, also, are eaten in their native countries, such as MIT those of M. Elengi, the seeds of which likewise afford an abundance of oil, while its highly- fragrant flowers yield their perfume to water by distillation." — A. Smith, in "Treasury of Botany." Mi'na. A genus of Convolvulaceai, containing one species, M. lobata, a beautiful climbing herbaceous plant, with rosy-crimson flowers, changing as they expand first to orange and then to pale yellow. Now placed by Bentham and Hooker under Ipomea, as I. versicolor. Minia'tus. Of a vermilion color ; pure red with a little yellow. Mint. See Mentha. Mint-bush, or Mint tree of Australia. See Prostranthera. Mira'bilis. Marvel of Peru. From mirabilis, wonderful, as everything was at first con- sidered that was sent from South America to Great Britain. Nat. Ord. Nyctaginacew. The varieties of M. Jalapa, or Marvel of Peru, are valuable ornaments of the borders of the flower garden. The seed should be sown in May where they are to grow, or they may be sown for early blooming in a hot-bed and transplanted in May along with Dahlias and such plants. Their after treatment closely resembles that of the former; they should be staked and tied in the same way, and on the approach of winter their large tuberous roots should be taken up and stored away in dry sand until the following spring, when in April they may be forwarded on a moderate hot-bed, and again in May be planted into the border of the flower garden, or they may be planted at once in the border as soon as danger from frost is past. The whole of the genus are of one character, and may be treated alike. Plants from the old roots will come into flower much earlier than if grown from seed. The colors of the Marvel of Peru are various, one being pure white and very fragrant, while others are beautifully as well as curiously striped. Gerarde first notices this genus in 1596. Mirbe'lia. Named after C. F. B. Mirbel, a physiological botanist of Paris. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. This genus consists of eight or nine species of Australian shrubs, with handsome yellow, purple, or bluish flowers. A few of the species are occasionally met in the more rare collec- tions of green-house plants. They are ever- greens, producing their flowers in July, and are propagated by cuttings ; introduced in 1825. Missouri Currant. See Ribes aurewm. Mist Flower. See Conoclinium. Mist Tree. See Rhus cotinus. Mistletoe. See Viscum album. Mitche'lla. Partridge Berry. Named in honor of Dr. John Mitchell, an early correspondent of Linneeus, and an excellent botanist, who resided in Virginia. Nat. Ord. Rubiacem. A small genus comprising two species of glabrous creeping herbs, one dispersed through North America from Mexico to Canada, and the other a native of Japan. M. repens, our native species, is a low, creeping evergreen, widely distributed throughout the United States and Canada in dry woods. 256 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OP PLANTS MIT The flowers are white, tinged with purple, and fragrant, the fruit is scarlet and edible, but nearly tasteless, and remains on during the winter. The Partridge is very fond of it, whence the local name. It is a pretty little plant for rockeries, hardy ferneries, and such like places. Mite'lla. Mitre-Wort. Bishop's Cap. A diminu- tive from mitra, a cap or mitre ; alluding to the form of the young pod. Nat. Ord. Saxi- fragacecB. A genus of hardy, perennial herbs, with stalked, roundish, cordate crenated leaves, and greenish-white flowers, often nodding, in slender many-flowered racemes. One species, M. nuda, occurs in Siberia, and this and the other species are natives of this country. They are admirable subjects for the rock-garden. Mitraca'rpum. From mitra, a mitre, and karpos, a fruit; in allusion to the fruit being cut round about in the middle. Nat. Ord. Rubia- cecs. A genus of erect or prostrate herbs, often with perennial roots, natives of tropical America and southern Africa. The small white flowers are produced in dense-flowered heads ; the leaves are linear-lanceolate or ovate. M. stylosum, the only species in cultivation is a plant-stove annual. None of the other species so far as known, are of any horticultural merit. Mitra'ria. From mitra, a mitre ; referring to the seed pod. Nat. Ord. Gesneraceaz. M. coccinea, the sole representative of this genus, is a low-growing shrubby plant, native of the Island of Chiloe. Its leaves are small, opposite, or sometimes trifoliate. The flowers are solitary, and of a bright scarlet color. It is a very beautiful plant for the green-house, or for planting out during the summer. It was introduced in 1848, and is propagated by cuttings. Mitriosti'gma. From mitra, a mitre, and stigma ; in reference to the shape of the pistil. A genus of two species, closely related to Gardenia with which they are usually classed. M. axillare, forms a compact spreading shrub with white, very fragrant, single axillary flowers. It was introduced from Natal in 1856, and is often cultivated under the name of Gardenia citriodora. Moccasin Flower. The popular name of our native Cypripediums, from the fancied resem- blance of the flower to a moccasin or slipper. Mock Orange. See Philadelphia. Mock Orange Gourd. Cucurbita aurantia. Mock Privet. See Phillyrea. Mode'cca. The East Indian name. Nat. Ord. PassifloracecB. A genus of evergreen climbing shrubs, re- sembling Passiflora in habit, but by no means so handsome. Natives of tropical Asia and Africa. The flowers are small and greenish- white. Propagated by cuttings. Modi'ola. From modiolus, the nave of a wheel ; referring to the formation of the seed- vessel. Nat. Ord. Malvacecs. A genus of annual and herbaceous peren- nials allied to the Mallow. They are mostly uninteresting plants, with low, creeping habit, MOL and purple or crimson flowers. Natives of the Southern States, and Brazil. Mo'hria. Named after M. Mohr, a German botanist. Nat. Ord. Polypodiaceoz. A genus of South African Ferns, consisting of but one species, M. thurifraga, a beautiful Fern with the general appearance of Woodsia obtusa. It makes a splendid specimen plant, and may be grown in a cool green-house. Propagated by spores. Moldavian Balm. See Dracocephalum. Moles. The common Mole (Talpa), is found in most parts of the country, and is well known for its curious cylindrical form, and the blackness of its velvet-like coat. The eyes are so small as to be practically useless to the animal, which is, however, possessed of acute hearing and smell. The teeth prove them to be carnivorous, and observation proves that Moles feed on insects, chiefly as larvee, and on earth-worms. Occasionally a little vegetable matter may be swallowed along with this food. The home of the Mole is usually situated in some secure situation under a large stone or the root of a tree, and there are usually several passages diverging from it, into any of which it may retreat when danger threatens. It is probable that Moles do more good than harm when they confine their operations to the fields, but in gardens they do much damage by cutting the roots of the plants in flower borders, upheaving the soil in seed-beds, etc., and their earth-heaps render lawns very unsightly. They are unwelcome visitors to the garden, and it is necessary to remove them by the use of traps set in their burrows or runs. As they are very wary, it is needful to take special precautions against the smell of one's hands remaining about the traps. Moli'nia. Named in honor of J. Molina, a writer upon Chilian plants. Nat. Ord. Gram- inacece. M. caerulea is a tall, tufted, hardy, perennial grass, with stems one to three feet in height, the variegated form of which forms an excel- lent decorative and bedding plant. Mollis. Soft. Molopospe'rmum. From Molops, a stripe, and Sperma, a seed ; the fruit has the appearance of being striped. Nat. Ord. Umbellifera. M. Cicutarium, the only species is a large vigorous-growing, handsome perennial plant, producing beautiful, finely cut, fern-like leaves, often four feet in diameter. It forms an ex- cellent plant for large shrubberies and is very effective as a solitary plant on lawns. It is a native of central and southern Europe and is propagated by division, or by seeds sown when ripe. Mo'ltkia. Named after Count Gadske Moltke, a Danish noble. Nat. Ord. Boraginacem. M. cozrulea, is a hardy herbaceous perennial, with beautiful blue flowers. It is a native of Persia, grows freely with ordinary garden culture, and is propagated by seeds or root division; introduced in 1829. Moluce'lla. A genus of Labiata, of hardy, or half-hardy annuals, inhabiting the Mediter- ranean region. M. Imois, is remarkable on account of the singular form of the calyces, which are shallowly bell-shaped, and densely arranged on erect stems. It forms an excellent AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 257 MOM subject for skeletonizing. Seeds sown in a green-house or frame can be planted out in May. Momo'rdica. Balsam Pear, Balsam Apple. From mordeo, to bite ; the seeds have the ap- pearance of being bitten. Nat. Ord. Cucur- MtacecB. A small genus of annual and perennial climbing herbaceous plants, with coarse leaves and inconspicuous flowers, either white or yellow. M. charantia, an East Indian species, is the Balsam Pear of our gardens. It has bright orange-yellow, pear-shaped fruit, from four to six inches long.and covered all over with little wart-like protuberances. When ripe the fruit splits open and turns back, and its bright red seeds give it a showy appearance. M. balsamina, Balsam Apple, is in all respects the same, excepting that the fruit is smaller and nearly round. This fruit in Syria is famous for curing wounds. They cut it open when un- ripe, and infuse it in sweet oil, exposed to the sun for some days until the oil becomes red. It may then be applied to a fresh wound, dropped on cotton. They grow best in a light rich soil, with a sunny aspect, and should be trained over a trellis or on brush. Monadelphous. Having all the stamens united by their filaments into a tube. Monandrous. Having only one stamen. Mona'rda. Horse Mint. Named after M. Monardez, a physician of Seville. Nat. Ord. Labiates. A genus of hardy herbaceous perennials, common from Pennsylvania to Wisconsin. They are mostly coarse growing, and of but little beauty. M. didyma, Oswego Tea, has bright red, showy flowers, and is sometimes cultivated under the name of Bee Balm. Monarde'lla. A genus of hardy annual or peren- nial, pleasantly aromatic, fragrant herbs, of the natural order Labiatce, much resembling Monarda in aspect and inflorescence, natives of North West America. They have bright colored flowers, in terminal heads, and are of easy cultivation. Moneywort. See Lysimachia. Moneywort. Cornish. Sibthorpia Ewropaa. Moniliform. Formed like a necklace ; that is to say, with alternate swellings resembling beads. Moni'mia. Named after Monime the wife of Mithridates. Nat. Ord. Monimiacete. A small genus of shrubby plants, natives of the Mas- carene Islands. Their leaves are opposite, entire, coriaceous, and often slightly pubes- cent ; none of the species are in cultivation. Monimia'cese. An order of trees or shrubs, natives of the warmer parts of Asia and America, Australia, and the Southern Pacific Islands. The bark and leaves are aromatic and fragrant, and the succulent fruit of some is eaten. There are over twenty genera described and over 150 species. Monimia, Larelia, and Boldoa, are examples of the order. Monkey Flower. See Mimulus. Monkey Pot. See Lecythis. Monkey Puzzler. A common name for Arau- caria imbricata. Monkey's Dinner-Bell. See Hura crepitans. Monk's Hood. See Aconitwm. MON Monni'na. Named after Mormino, Cownt de Flora Blanca, a Spanish promoter of botany. Nat. Ord. Polygalacece. A genus of about fifty species of green- house evergreen herbs, shrubs, or small trees, natives of Western America. The flowers have usually a white or yellowish corolla, and blue calycine wings. Few of the species are of any horticultural value. Monochae'tum. From monos, one, and chaite, a bristle; in allusion to the shape of the con- nective of the stamen. Nat. Ord. Melasto- maceaz. A genus of over twenty species, of erect, branched, often tomentose shrubs, natives of the mountains of Peru, New Grenada, Mexico, and Guatemala. They form showy plants, and are of easy culture. Monochi'lus. From Monos, one, and cheilos, a lip ; alluding to the form of flower. Nat. Ord. VerbenacecB. M. gloxinifolius, the only species introduced from Brazil in 1838 is a very pretty low-grow- ing stove-house plant, with white flowers, re- markable for the form of its corolla. It is propagated by cuttings. Monocotyledons or Endogens. One of the two great classes into which all flowering plants are divided. They are characterized as having the wood of the stem irregularly disposed in longitudinal bundles, not in con- centric layers, and having no defined central pith ; the leaves generally parallel veined ; and the flowers with organs mostly in threes or fours, never in fives ; in grasses, the parts are arranged in twos and threes. The embryo with a single cotyledon ; first formed leaves alternate, the radicle not branching but throwing out adventitious roots. Monodo'ra. From monos, one, and dora, a skin ; in allusion to the fruit being one-celled. Nat. Ord. Anonacece. A small genus of plant-stove trees confined to tropical Africa. M. Myristica, or Calabash Nutmeg, the only species yet introduced, has large, variegated, pendulous, sweet-scented flowers, followed by large globose woody fruit, varying in size from that of an orange, to a large melon, containing a number of seeds which abound in an aromatic oil of a nutmeg flavor, and which are commonly called Jamaica or American nutmegs. It was introduced in 1843, and is propagated by cuttings of the ripened wood. Monoecious. Having male and female organs in different flowers on the same plant. Monogra'mma. From monos, one, and gramma, a writing ; referring to the spore or seed-cases. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacecz. A small genus of very dwarf Ferns from the West Indies, requiring a warm green-house. Monogynous. Having but one style, even though many carpels be present. Monole'na. From monos, one, and olene, the arm ; alluding to the process or arm from the base of the anther. Nat. Ord. Melastomaceaz. A genus of fleshy, stemless, glabrous plants, with thick rhizomes, natives of Peru and Grenada. M. primulceflora, the only one yet introduced, is a very handsome species. It has deep, bright, pink flowers with a white eye and yellow anthers, of free growth, and is 258 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS MON propagated by division or by cutting up the rhizomes, and starting them in bottom heat. Mono'lophus. A small-growing, deciduous plant, of the Nat. Ord. Zingiberacece. It has slender, leafy stems, about two feet in height, bearing distichously arranged leaves, and terminal oblong spikes of pretty bright rose- colored flowers. It is a native of India, and of quite recent introduction. Included under Kamvpferia by some authors. Monolo'pia. From monolopus, a single cover- ing ; referring to the flower covering. Nat. Ord. Composite. California woolly annuals, allied to Chrysan- themum. There are but two species : one, M. major, with yellow flowers, is rather showy ; the other is a mere weed. Mono'panax. From monos, one, and Panax ; the plant resembling a Panax, and having a one-celled ovary. A genus proposed by Kegel to accommodate the Aralia Ghiesbrechtii of gardens. Monope'talous. Having one petal ; having all the petals united by their edges. Monophy'llous. Having only one leaf; or several leaves united by their edges into one. Mono'psis. From monos, one, and opsis, a face; the flowers are regular, not bilabiate. Nat. Ord. Lobeliacece. This little annual deserves far more atten- tion than it has hitherto received. It bears a resemblance to the well-known Lobelia gracilis, except that its flowers are round, the segments being equal instead of bilabiate, as in Lobelia. The Monopsis requires the treatment usual for the other plants mentioned, and in the same situations has a much better effect, its flowers being of the same color, but from their form are more showy. It is from the Cape of Good Hope, and at present is seldom seen in cultivation. Introduced in 1812. Monosepalous. Having one sepal ; having all the sepals united by their edges. Mono'tropa. The generic name of the Indian Pipe or Corpse Plant. Monotropa'ceae. An order of leafless herbs, parasitical on the roots of trees, principally Pines and Beeches. There are nine genera, and from ten to twelve species. Hypopytis, Monotropa, and Schweinitzia, are native ex- amples of the order. Monso'nia. Named after Lady Ann Monson, a correspondent of Linnwus. Nat. Ord. Gerani- acece. A genus of very beautiful herbaceous plants, nearly allied to the Geraniums, but with much larger flowers. Though but rarely seen, they are well worthy of cultivation, and are easily propagated by seeds, or by cuttings. First introduced from the Cape of Good Hope in 1774. Monste'ra. Name not explained. Nat. Ord. Aroidece. A genus of climbing stove epiphytes, for- merly known as Dracontium. Several of the species are cultivated in collections of plants with ornamental foliage. M. deliciosa, a Mex- ican species, has a succulent fruit, with a luscious pineapple flavor. It is better known among us as Philodendron pertusum. Most of the species have holes in their leaves at irregu- lar intervals, and are curious and interesting MOB, plants. They are all excellent subjects for the sub-tropical garden. Propagated by cuttings and by seeds. Monta'noa. Named after Montano, a Mexican politician. Nat. Ord. Composite. A genus of about fourteen species of orna- mental shrubs, natives of North America, from Mexico to Columbia. M. bipinnatifida (syn. M. heracleifolia, Polymnia grandis) has large, opposite, deeply-dentate leaves, and is much used in Europe in sub-tropical garden- ing. It is easily increased by seeds, or root- cuttings. Montbre'tia. Named in honor of M. Montbret. Nat. Ord. Iridacece. A small genus of hardy or half-hardy bul- bous plants, natives of Southern Africa. M. Pottsii, has bright, yellow flowers, flushed on the outside with brick-red, borne on spikes, six to nine inches long, and twelve to twenty flowered. It is perfectly hardy, as is M. cro- cosmiflora, a very handsome hybrid, raised between M. Potsii and Crocosmia aurea. The latter is a vigorous growing Iris-looking plant with scapes, a foot or more high, bearing many-flowered panicles of bright orange-scar- let flowers, from July until frost. It is one of the most floriferous and showy of autumn blooming, hardy, bulbous plants, and like the Gladiolus many beautiful varieties have ori- ginated from seed and are now cultivated under distinctive names. The genus is closely allied to Ixia, and is placed under Tritonia by some authors. Monterey Cypress. Cupressus macrocarpa. Moon Daisy. A common name for Leucanthe- mum, or Ox-eye Daisy. Moon-Flower. A popular name of Iponum (Calonyction) grandiflora; applied also to Ane- mone nemorosa, and Leueanihemum Chrysanthe- moides. Moon-Seed. See Menispermum. Moonwort. See Botrychium and Lunaria. Moose Horn Fern. See Platycerium ^Jthiopica. Moose-wood. See Dirca. Moqui'lea. From the name of one of the species in Guiana. Nat. Ord. Rosacea. A genus of nearly twenty species of trees and shrubs, mostly natives of Brazil. The powdered bark of M. utilis (the Carapi or Pottery-tree of Para), baked with an equal quantity of clay, makes vessels capable of withstanding a great amount of heat. Morse'a. Named after R. Moore, an English botanist. Nat. Ord. Iridacem. Bulbous plants with very handsome flowers, nearly allied to Ixia, from which genus they have been removed. They are generally grown in pots. When they have done flower- ing, they should be kept dry till they begin to grow in spring. When planted in the open ground they should be protected from frost and heavy rains. They are natives of the Cape of Good Hope, and are propagated by offsets. Introduced in 1758. Syn. Vieusseuxia. Morel. This group of Fungi, included in the genus Morchella, grow chiefly in woods. Sev- eral species are distinguished, all of them edible, the common Morel being esteemed for its good qualities, and regarded as a great delicacy. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 259 MOR More'nia. In honor of M. Moreno. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. A small genus of hot-house Palms from Peru, requiring the same treatment as the Chamcedorea, to which genus they are closely allied. Morica'ndia. Named after M. E. Moricand, an Italian botanist, author of "Flora Veneta." Nat. Ord. Cruciferce. A genus of very pretty hard}7 annual or biennial herbs, natives of southern Europe, northern Africa and western Asia, with beauti- ful large rosy-purple or violet-colored flowers. Propagated by seeds, sown in spring in a warm dry situation out of doors. Mori'na. Named after L. Morin, a French botanist. Nat. Ord. Dipsacacece. A small genus of hardy herbaceous per- ennials. M. longifolia, a native of the moun- tains of the north of India, is a showy plant, growing two or three feet high and flowering freely from July until October. Its habit of growth resembles the Acanthus; the flowers resemble those of the Verbena, only they are larger, and produced in whorls around the stem. The general appearance of the plant is weedy. Mori'nda. From morus, a Mulberry, and Indica, Indian ; Indian Mulberry. Nat. Ord. Rubiacem. A genus of about forty species of erect or scandent glabrous shrubs, or trees, all natives of the tropics, M. tinctoria has pure white flowers with a Jasmine-like fragrance ; the bark of the root gives a rich red dye. Mori'nga. Horse-radish Tree. From moringo, the Indian name. Nat. Ord. Moringacem. The three species that compose this genus are green-house evergreens from north Africa, western Asia, and the East Indies. The root of one of the species, M. pterygosperma, is pungent and stimulant, and is used by the natives for Horse-radish. The fruit of this species is called Ben Nuts, from which is ex- tracted a fluid oil, called Oil of Ben, used by watchmakers. Moringa'ceae. This natural order contains but a single genus, Moringa, which see. Moriso'nia. Named after Robert Morison of Aberdeen, Professor of botany at Oxford in 1683. Nat. Ord. Capparidacem. A genus of four species of West Indian and South American trees, with white axillary flow- ers and succulent fruit. M. Americana, proba- bly the only species in cultivation, is of easy culture and is propagated by cuttings of the ripened shoots in sand ; introduced from the West Indies in 1824. Mormo'des. From mormo, a goblin ; referring to the strange appearance of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A small genus of epiphytal Orchids, with dark purple, curiously shaped flowers, from Mexico. They are rarely met under culti- vation and when grown it is more for their singularity than their beauty. Mo'rna. Named after Morna, one of Ossian's heroines. Nat. Ord. Composite. This is a small genus of beautiful half-hardy annuals, with yellow and white everlasting flowers, allied to Helichrysum ; introduced from Swan River in 1835. They should be started in a hot-bed, and planted out in May. MOS Morning Glory. See Ipomceu. Morono'bea. From Moronobo or Coronobo, the Carribean name of M. coccinea. Nat. Ord. Ghittiferai. A small genus of large, slender-stemmed trees natives of the West Indies, Guiana and Brazil. M. coccinea, the Hog Gum-Tree has large, white, terminal, solitary flowers, and is valuable for a fluid pellucid juice which issues from incisions in the trunk and which hardens into a valuable medicinal resin. It is said that in Jamaica, hogs when injured rub them- selves against the tree in order to become smeared with the juice, hence the common name. Morphology. That department of botany which treats of the forms and modifications of the organs of the plants. Mo'rus. Mulberry. From mor, the Celtic for black ; referring to the color of the fruit. Nat. Ord. UrticacetB. The species of the Mulberry grow from ten to forty feet high, and are more celebrated as affording leaves upon which the Silk-worm feeds than for their fruit, which is, however, of a very grateful quality. M. rubra, the Red Mulberry, is very common throughout the United States, and produces the best fruit of any of the species. Charles Downing raised a seedling from M. alba multicaulis, which is called "Everbearing," and justly so, as it ripens its fruit earlier than any of the species, and keeps in bearing later. M. nigra, the Black Mulberry, is the species that was formerly cultivated for its fruit, and was an object of much attention at a very early period in the western parts of Asia and Europe. The care bestowed upon it must have been solely on account of its fruit ; for the know- ledge of the mode of rearing silk-worms was confined to the people of central and southern Asia till the sixth century. It is mentioned in the Psalms that the wrath of the Almighty destroyed the "Mulberry trees with frost," and this must have been recorded as a remarkable instance of the Divine displeasure ; for the Mulberry is universally known not to put forth its buds and leaves till the season is so far advanced that, in the ordinary course of events, all dangers from the frost are past. We also read in the Bible that " David came upon the Philistines, and smote them over against the Mulberry trees." This species is found wild in the chains of the Caucasus and adjoining mountains, and also in Persia and Asia Minor. M. alba, the White Mulberry, is a native of China, and, with its varieties, is culti- vated for food for the Silk-worm. Of all the varieties, M. alba multicaulis, is considered the best, and is the most grown in silk-producing countries. It was this variety that created such a maniainthe United States about fifty years ago, when it was asserted that silk was soon to take the place of cotton, and that in all the Middle States it could be profitably produced. It is now largely grown in California for rais- ing the Silk-worm. Mosch'aria. From moschos, musk; a musk- smelling plant. Nat. Ord. Composite. A half-hardy annual from Chili, interesting only for the fragrance of the plant ; the flow- ers are white, but of little merit. Moschatus. Possessing the odor of musk. HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS MOS Mosquito Plant. See Lopezia coronata. Moss. See Sphagnum. Moss Campion. One of the popular names of Silene, which see. Moss Pink. See Phlox subulata. Mother of Thousands. Linaria Cymbalaria. Mother-wort. Leonurus, a worthless weed, common in neglected and waste places ; also, Artemisia vulgaris. Mountain Ash. See Pyrus aucuparia.. Mountain Cowslip. See Primula Auricula. Mountain Fringe. See Adlumia cirrhosa. Mountain Holly. See Nemopanthes. Mountain Laurel. See Oreodaphne. Mountain Mahoe. See Paritium. Mountain Spinach. See Atriplex. Mountain Sweet. A Canadian name for Ceano- thus Americanus. Mount Etna Lily. See Stembergia. Mourning Bride. See Scabiosa. Mouse-ear Chickweed. See Cerastium. Mouse-tail. Myosurus minimus. Moutan, or Tree Peeony. See Pwonia. Moving Plant. See Desmodium. Mucous, Mucose. Covered with a slimy secre- tion, or with a coat that is readily soluble in water, and becomes slimy; resembling mucus. Mucronate. Abruptly terminated by a hard, sharp point ; thus, mucronato-serrate is when the serratures terminate in a hard, sharp point, Mucu'na. Cow Itch. The Brazilian name. Nat. Ord. Leguminosa. The plants of this genus are well known to travelers in tropical countries from the exceedingly annoying character of their seed- pods, which are thickly covered with stinging hairs, easily detached by the slightest shake, and causing great irritation if they happen to fall upon exposed parts of the body. Mud Plantain. See Heteranthera. Muehlenbe'ckia. Named after H. G. Muehlen- beck, a Swiss physician. Nat. Ord. Polygon- aceae. A genus of twining shrubs or small trees, natives of South America, New Zealand, and Australia. M. complexa (syn. Polygonum complexum) is of dense and diffuse habit, and from the distinct form and color of its foliage, together with its graceful, drooping, wire- like branches, often covered with transparent fruit, the tooth-like divisions of which hang like miniature icicles in small clusters on lateral shoots from the more ripened stems, is a most desirable plant for vases or hanging baskets. It is probably hardy, and was intro- duced from New Zealand in 1870. M. platy- clada is the name now given by some to the plant known as Cocoloba platyclada, which see. Mu'kia. Derivation unknown. Nat. Ord. Cucur- bitacece. A small genus of Cucurbitacea, nearly allied to Bryonia. They are confined to the tropics of the old world. M. scabrella is widely diffused. It is an annual, scabrous climbing MUL herb, with entire or lobed leaves, small yellow flowers and greenish fruit, half an inch in diameter, which is yellow or reddish when ripe. Mulberry. See Morus. Mulberry. Indian. See Morinda. Mulberry. Paper. Broussonetia papyrifera. Mulching. Placing leaves or rough litter around newly planted trees to prevent evaporation from the soil has been long practiced. Good cultivators apply leaves, rough manure, etc. , to the surface of the soil to protect the roots of certain plants against the action of the frost, it being useful, not so much against freezing as to prevent alternate freezing and thawing. In strawberry culture, the mulch applied in the fall protects the roots during winter ; it is allowed to remain on the bed, where, if thick enough, it keeps down weeds, and prevents the evaporation of moisture from the soil during the dry time we are apt to have between the flowering and the ripening of the Straw- berry. The utility of a mulch is not confined to the Strawberry among fruits ; Raspberries and Currants are much benefited by it; and the finer varieties of English Gooseberries, a fruit with which very few succeed in our hot summers, can be successfully grown when so treated. Newly planted trees, whether of fruit or ornamental kinds, are much benefited by a mulch, and its application often settles the question of success or failure. We have known a whole Pear orchard to be mulched, and the owner thought its cost was more than repaid by saving the fallen fruit from bruises. Spinach is protected in the same way, and Carnations, Pansies, Roses, and other partly hardy plants, are mulched in the same manner. The rooting of a layer is by some gardeners thought to be facilitated by placing a flat stone over the buried branch ; the fact being that the stone acts as a, mulch, and prevents the soil around the cut portion from drying out, and greatly favors the rooting process. Even in the vegetable garden mulching is found useful, especially with Cauliflowers, which find our summers quite too dry. The material of the mulch is not of much impor- tance ; mostly one kind of litter will answer nearly as well as another. The material will be governed in great measure by locality ; those living near salt water will find salt hay, as hay from the marshes is called, the most readily procured ; those who live near Pine forests use the fallen leaves, or Pine needles, as they are called; in the grain-growing districts straw is abundant, and nothing can be better ; it can be applied more thoroughly if run through a cutter. Leaves are Nature's own mulch, and answer admirably, if there is danger of their being blown away, brush laid over them, or even a little earth sprinkled on them, will keep them in place. One of the best materials to use for summer mulching is the green grass mowed from lawns. This, applied to the thickness of two or three inches around the roots of all kinds of small fruits, will be found not only to greatly benefit the crop, particularly in dry weather, but will save greatly in labor by preventing the growth of weeds. Stable manure, particularly that of cows, is extensively used in Rose growing in winter, two or three inches of which is placed over the soil, whether they are grown MYOSOTIDIUM NOBILE. MTOSOTIS PALUSTKIS. MTOSOTIS DISSITIFLORA. MUSA ENSETE. 260 W.C.S MT76CARI BOTBTOIDES. MYRSIFHYLLUM (6MILAX). PLAN OF HOUSE FOR FORCING MUSHROOMS, SEA KALE, RHUBARB, ETC. MUSHROOM (AGARICUS CAMPESTRTS.^ MUSHROOMS ON SHELVES. Section af ri^i'-angles. Scale %^Yq\ Ft. Plan. err MUSHROOMS IN BEDS. «6i AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 261 MUL in pots or on benches ; Moss mulching is also used for this and other purposes. Mullein. See Verbascum. Multifid. Divided half-way into many parts or segments. Munti'ngic.. Named after Abraham Munting, Professor of Botany at Grcaningen, 1626- 1683. Nat. Ord. Liliaceai. M. Calabura, the only described species, is a handsome small evergreen shrub, with white flowers resembling those of the Bramble. An infusion of its leaves is used as tea in Caraccas, whence it was introduced in 1690. Mura'ltia. Named after John Von Muralt, a Swiss botanist, 1645-1733. Nat. Ord. Poly- galacecB. A genus of about fifty species of green-house much-branched shrubs, natives of South Africa. M. Heisteria, the species best known to culti- vation, has small, purplei axillary flowers, and, under good treatment, is almost per- petually in bloom. It was introduced in 1787, and is propagated by cuttings of the young wood. Muricate. Covered with short, sharp points, as in Panicwm mwicatwm. Mu'rraya. Named after Professor Mwrray, editor of Linntzus's works. Nat. Ord. Ruta- ceoB. A small genus of hot-house evergreen trees from In'iia, Java, and China, producing showy white flowers, which are very fragrant. Murucu'ja. The name of the species in Brazil. Nat. Ord. Passifloracece. A small genus of green-house climbers, with showy scarlet or purple flowers. The genus was formerly included in Passiflora, and should in all respects be treated the same. Natives of Brazil. Mu'sa. Banana or Plantain. Named in honor of Antonius Musa, the physician of Augustus. Nat. Ord. Scitaminece. The representative species of this interest- ing and useful genus are M. paradisiaca, the Plantain, and M. sapientum, the Banana. The latter has its stems marked with purple spots, and its fruits are shorter and rounder than those of the Plantain, and are red and yellow in color, but otherwise the two plants are lit- tle different one from the other. The fruit of the Plantain is smaller and angular, and yel- low in color. "They have been cultivated from the most remote times in tropical cli- mates, in sub-tropical Asia, America, Africa, and the islands of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, for the sake of their fruits, which they produce in enormous quantities, with very little attention. There are several varieties, the fruits of which differ in color and taste. The starch in the unripe fruit becomes con- verted, as it ripens, into mucilage and sugar. They are highly nutritious, and serve as the staple food of a large number of the human race. Though less nutritious than wheat or potatoes, yet the space occupied by their cul- ture and the care required are so very much less, that Humboldt has calculated the pro- duce of Bananas compared to that of Wheat as 133 to 1, and to that of Potatoes as 44 to 1. Plantain meal is obtained by powdering the dried fruit. It is very nutritious, as it con- tains not only starch, but proteine or flesh- MUS forming material. The fruits of the Plantain are stated by chemists to be most nearly allied in composition and nutritive qualities to the Potato, and the Plantain meal to Rice. The natives in many parts of India live almost entirely on Plantains, and the stems, laden with fruit, are made use of at wedding fes- tivities, in token of plenty." The Banana is not known in an uncultivated state. The wildest tribes in South America, who depend upon this fruit for subsistence, propagate the plant by suckers. Eight or nine months after the sucker has been planted, the Banana begins to form its clusters, and the fruit is ready for picking in two or three months thereafter. When the stalk is cut, the fruit of which has ripened, a sprout is put forth, which again bears fruit in three months. The whole labor of cultivation that is required for a plantation of Bananas, is to cut the stalks laden with ripe fruit, and to give the plants a slight nourishment once or twice a year by digging round the roots. The yield per acre, with the little or no care bestowed, is between fifty and sixty tons of ripe fruit. The Banana is often cultivated in the green-house. M. Cavendishii is the best for this purpose ; it is a dwarf species, from China, rarely growing more than six feet high, and is exceedingly ornamental. In a warm house it ripens its fruit to perfection, and the flavor is far superior to that which is found in our markets, which is picked quite green, and ripened in holds of vessels or in fruit stores. M. superba and M. Ensete have foliage of magnificent pro- portions, and are often grown on the lawn as ornamental plants. M. coccinea, a native of Cochin China, has spathes of a bright- scarlet color, tipped with yellow, and is a very orna- mental plant in a stove or warm green-house. Musca'ri. Grape Hyacinth. From moschos, musk; the smell of the flowers. Nat. Ord. IAliacecB. A small genus of bulbous plants, with small white or blue globular flowers, in racemes, at the end of a simple stalk. They only require planting where they can remain many years without being disturbed. Though natives of middle Europe and the Mediterranean region, they have become naturalized in many parts of the United States. On the east end of Long Island some fields are literally blue with the flowers in early spring. From their peculiar fragrance, the plant is often called "Baby's Breath." Musci. An important tribe of Cryptogams, comprising the true Mosses. Mushroom. Agaricus campestris. The great interest now being taken in Mushroom culture in the United States has induced us to treat the subject as fully as the limits of our space will permit. Mushrooms may be grown either in a house specially erected for the pur- pose, in cellars, out-houses, sheds, under green-house stages, tables, or, as in France and other parts of the world, in caves or other subterranean places, as light is not necessary to their growth. There is a peculiar interest in Mushroom culture to the amateur or begin- ner, from the fact that, while in all other culti- vated plants we have something tangible to start with — either plants, seeds, or roots — we have neither, here, as far as the naked eye can see; for the white mouldy substance 262 HENDEKSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS MUS called spawn is not easily imagined to be either, though we know, by the use of the microscope, that the germs or spores are to be found in countless numbers on the "gills " of the fully-developed Mushroom, and these, without doubt, when falling in a congenial " soil," form the spawn which we plant to de- velop the Mushroom. But an extended botanical or physiological inquiry is not neces- sary to the subject of culture. As there is no necessity for light in Mushroom culture, the usual method of growing them, where there is a green-house, is to use the sheds used for potting, packing, or for covering the boiler pits ; and the portion of them used for Mush- room growing is generally four feet from the back wall, starting on the floor of the shed with the first bed, the additional beds being formed of shelving of the same width, and from twelve to fifteen inches deep, raised one above another to the top of the wall, like steamboat sleeping berths. Of course, if the shed is used for growing Mushrooms exclu- sively, these beds will be formed in the middle and front of the shed, leaving say three feet walks between each tier of Mushroom beds ; for example, if the shed is eleven feet wide, it will give two Mushroom beds four feet wide on each side, with a three-feet walk in the centre ; or if twenty-two feet wide, the beds for Mushrooms should be four feet wide at front and rear, with an eight-feet bed in the centre, and three feet walks all around, the eight-feet bed being accessible from the walks on either side. When a Mushroom bed is made under the green-house bench, the bench must be made of slate or other material, to prevent the water getting through, otherwise Mushrooms could not well be raised under it. The bed must also be formed under such benches as have no pipe or flues under them, as the heat from such near to the bed would be hurtful. Where there is a superfluity of cellar-room, there is no better place to raise Mushrooms, as the cool moisture of the atmos- phere and the uniform temperature of the cellar is more congenial to the growth of this vege- table than structures above ground. The beds may be formed of the size and depth above recommended ; or, where portable Mushroom beds are wanted, boxes may be used of the requisite depth and of convenient size. The temperature of the apartment where Mush- rooms are to be grown during the winter months should range from 55° to 65°, and, consequently, it would be useless to attempt to grow the crop in the winter months unless artificial means were used to keep the tem- perature to that height; for though the manure in the beds were up to 80° when first made, it would only partially raise the tem- perature of an unheated building in winter. Probably the best time to begin making the beds for a crop wanted in winter is during August and September, as at that season the temperature is high enough to cause the spawn to germinate freely, so that the first beds made in August will give the first crop during December; those in September, in January or February ; and so on. The fol- lowing plan, given in our work, " Gardening for Profit," has been extensively practiced for the past fifteen years, with rare instances of failure, even by those who never before attempted the culture of the Mushroom : MUS "Let fresh horse droppings be procured from the stables each day, in quantity not less, perhaps, than a good barrowful. To every barrowload of droppings add about the same weight (which will be a little less than one- third in bulk) of fresh loam from a pasture, or sod land of any kind, in fact, that has not been manured ; the danger of old manured soil being, that it may contain spurious fungi. Let the droppings and soil be mixed together day by day as the droppings can be procured. If they can be had all at once in quantity enough, so much the better. Let the heap be turned every day, so that it is not allowed to heat violently, until you have got enough to form the bed of the dimensions required. Be careful that you keep it under cover, so that it cannot possibly get wet. Now, from the prepared heap of droppings and soil, spread over the bed a thin layer ; pound this firmly down with a brick, and so on till it reaches a depth of eight inches. Be careful that it i& not more nor less than eight inches ; more will cause the mass to heat too violently, while less is hardly enough. Into this bed plunge a thermometer ; in a day or two the bed will heat so that it will run up to 100° or over ; and as soon as it declines to 90°, take a dib- ble, or sharp stick, and make holes three or four inches deep all over the bed at twelve inches each way ; into each hole put a piece of spawn about the size of a hen's egg, cover- ing up the hole again with the compost, so that it will present the same level, firm sur- face as before the spawn was put in. Let it remain in this condition for about ten or twelve days, by which time the spawn will have 'run' through the whole bed. Now spread evenly over the surface of the bed nearly two inches of fresh loam ; firm it down moderately with the back of a spade, and cover up the bed with three or four inches of hay or straw. This completes the whole operation of 'planting the crop.' Nothing now remains to be done but to attend to the proper degrees of heat and moisture. If you can control the means of heating, so that the place can be kept uniformly at a temperature of 60°, all the better; if not, it may range from 40° to 60°. It should never get below 40°, else the bed will become cold and delay the crop until too late in the season to be profitable. Unless the air of the house has been unusually dry, the Mushrooms will appear before any water is required; but examination should be made, and if the sur- face of the bed appears dry, a gentle sprinkling of water, heated to about 100p, must be given. With this treatment, beginning in August, our first crop is ready for use in December ; while beginning in September, the crop should be ready in January and February. The Mushrooms do not come up all at once, but from three to four weeks will be needed to get off the first crop. After this, a slight dress- ing of fresh soil about half an inch in depth is spread over the bed, and again beaten down with the spade ; this is gently watered with tepid water when dry, and a second crop of Mushrooms (often better than the first) is gathered in March or April. To show how a simple oversight in our operations may defeat the whole work, I will state that in my first attempt at Mushroom growing I labored for two years without being able to produce a AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 263 MUS single Mushroom. In my apprentice days I had known no such word as fail in so simple a matter ; but here, on my first attempt, on my own responsibility, I was met by total failure. Every authority was consulted, all the various methods tried, but with no better success. In all such cases something must be blamed, and I pronounced the spawn worthless ; but this could not well be, as a friend had abundant crops growing from spawn received from the same source. Driven into a corner by this information, I made another exploration of my 'authorities,' and was fortunate to find in one of them a single sentence that at once showed where my error had been ; it was to ' be careful to delay the covering with mould until ten or twelve days after the bed had been spawned.' Now, in all the different methods I had tried, I had in each invaria- bly put in the spawn, and at once put on the two-inch covering of soil, which had the effect to shut down the steam, thereby raising the temperature in the bed to a degree that destroyed the spawn, and consequently defeated my whole operations. My excuse for this digression is to show the importance of what might otherwise be thought unneces- sary details. Although spawn is procurable at cheap rates in all horticultural stores, yet to such as desire to make it themselves, I give the following brief directions : Take equal portions of horse droppings, cow dung, and fresh loam, and mix the whole thoroughly together, as you would make mortar; then form it into cakes about the size of large bricks; place these on edge, under cover, until they become half dry ; then insert into each a piece of spawn half an inch or so square, and let the bricks remain until they are quite dry ; then spread about eight inches of horse dung over the floor of the shed, on which build the bricks in a pile three feet wide by three feet high, keeping the side in which the spawn has been put uppermost; then cover them over with sufficient stable manure, so as to give a gentle heat, not exceeding 100°, through the whole. In two or three weeks the spawn will have spread itself through the whole mass of each brick ; they are then removed to a dry place, and will retain their vital properties for many years. There is not the least question that the culti- vation of Mushrooms for market, forced in the manner detailed, will give a larger profit for the labor and capital invested than that from any other vegetable. The supply has never yet been half enough, and sellers have had prices pretty much as they pleased. I know of no house that has been especially erected for the purpose, and the markets have been supplied from beds formed in out- of-the-way corners, giving only an uncertain and irregular supply, very discouraging to buyers. I have no doubt whatever that Mushroom houses, roughly built, but exclu- sively devoted to that purpose, would, in the vicinity of any of our large cities, pay a profit of fifty per cent, per annum on the cost of construction." The following article was written to a re- quest made by me to John G. Gardner, Jobs- town, N. J., who has been eminently success- ful as a grower of Mushrooms. " Having been interested in the culture of Mushrooms for the past fifteen years, both in MUS England and in this country, and having read almost everything written on the subject, besides having had ample experience every year, growing them successfully in various ways, under green-house benches, in cellars, and in houses constructed especially for Mushroom culture ; it is only after close study that I have been able during the last three years to produce enough in quantity to com- pensate for the expense attending their cul- ture. Starting with these facts uppermost in my mind — that I could not realize Mushrooms enough in value as an equivalent of labor and material expended, and that at some future time I might have to grow them for market, I concluded that I must become more familiar with the conditions of their development, and closely watched from day to day all stages of operations, until the Mushrooms appeared upon the surface of the beds. "The first serious drawback I saw, was the falling off after two or three weeks of the quantity gathered, and upon examining the beds I found abundance of spawn in thread- like form looking healthy, and Mushrooms already formed upon the ends of the threads, but only a few developed, ninety per cent, becoming brown in color after showing upon the surface the size of small peas. Now I was at a loss to know the cause of this falling off ; with the spawn in perfect health, and as some of the beds in the same house having had exactly the same treatment, spawned and commenced bearing at the same time were still bearing well, being positive also that the atmospheric conditions had not been changed, and that the beds were moist enough, I came to the conclusion that the food of the Mushroom had been all absorbed, and nothing left to develop the thread-like forms into Mushrooms, and that what was needed was food prepared in a soluble form that I could apply at this stage of falling off. I had read that the Mushroom abounds in nitrogen, and that this substance must be a necessary ele- ment, but in what form did the Mushroom take it up? I knew also that from beds that would not ferment although in a house of the proper temperature, I could not get a crop, so it ap- peared clear to me that fermentation was the means of preparing the nitrogen, causing it to take the form of ammonia, and that in this state it became soluble, and fit for plant food. At once then I saw this to be the cardinal point — that this ammonia must be retained in the beds, that the labor of turning and dry- ing the material, and all the foundation that took place in the manure was a loss, as the nitrogen escaped in the form of ammonia, but until some other material than horse-stable manure be used for the beds (and I believe it will be practical in the near future to use other material), there will be a loss of am- monia from the beds by fermentation in different stages. I have been experimenting with sphagnum moss and cocoanut fibre, using hot water to get the proper temperature to produce the spawn in an active state, and covering with soil, charged with ammonia, I have been successful in raising healthy Mush- rooms. " In October, 1886, being satisfied with the result of my experiments, and feeling certain that I had mastered the fundamental part of •Mushroom Culture,' I made a radical 264 HENDEKSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS MUS change in my operations, which I give in detail. First, however, I will give some idea of my house. It had been a storage cellar for roots,60x24 feet, with a cement floor, and below ground level. I had six rows of 2J£ inch pipe put in to keep up a proper temperature in severe weather, tore out all the shelves and benches of the old system, and formed the bed on the floor. I received the manure by the cars from New York, and had it unloaded and carted at once, making the bed the same day, passing the manure through openings in the walls, and levelling it to an even depth of fifteen inches. The next day I had soil from the vegetable garden, a rich mellow loam, carted and put on to the depth of three inches over one half of the bed, lengthwise in the house. The other half of the bed I had forked up loosely three inches in depth, so as to dry and ferment as quickly as possible, throwing open all the windows and doors. In twelve days after making the bed in the part that had no soil upon it, I cut drills with a hoe sixteen inches apart and two inches deep lengthwise of the house, to receive the spawn, 1 leaving drills uncovered two days.' Finding the temperature in the bottom of the drill to be 95°, and the bed below getting dry, I took soil by hand, and spreading a little thinly in the bot- tom of the drill, I put in the spawn, which was in cake form, broken into pieces the size of a small egg, then moistening it in each drill by a sprinkler, I partially closed the house, so as to hold a warm damp moisture over the spawn. On the second day, finding the temperature falling, I pulled the manure loosely over the spawn with a rake, and plac- ing a thermometer at the same depth as the spawn, I found next morning the temperature to be 90°. I then tamped the bed down to a level surface, and passing the soil from the other part of the bed upon the spawned part, I forked up the surface loose, and threw the house open again to dry the bed ready for spawning, which was in half the time of the first part. When spawned half the soil was passed over again and the whole surface made even and tamped down firmly. In five weeks I gathered Mushrooms, and continued to do so until the following May, when the warm weather set in and the Maggot played havoc with them in all stages. The soil was thoroughly charged with ammonia as it lay upon the surface of the bed during the whole fermentation, and furnishing the food for the Mushroom. The moisture of the house was kept up by fermenting manure in oil barrels, which were recharged as they cooled off. The temperature was kept at 57°, as nearly as pos- sible ; other artificial heat by steam or flue heating would have answered nearly the same purpose. "For growing Mushrooms in fruit-houses such as a peachhouse or grapery, I use hot- bed sashes, forming the frames with boards, making the beds directly upon the soil of the border. These beds I form with the manure as soon as received, making them one foot in thickness, and treading down firmly. I then spread one and a half inches of soil evenly over the surface, and fork up an inch or so of the manure with it, intermixing it slightly so as to prevent the soil forming a cake-like sur- face ; I then add two inches of manure, which is left loose on the top of the bed. I find that MUS the soil lessens the fermentation near the sur- face, and that a large amount of the ammonia is gathered in the loose manure which is much cooler and damper than the body of the bed below the soil. I spawn at a temperature of 90*. to 95Q, placing the spawn in drills one foot apart and two inches deep, using one and a half bricks to a sash 6x3 feet, finishing with one and a half inches of soil direct from the vegetable garden. I find when fresh manure is formed into beds, that when the fermenta- tion is ceasing, the manure becomes nearly dry, so that there is no danger of raising the temperature when the beds are soiled directly after spawning. The sashes are then put on, each one being tilted an inch or so to let out the moisture given off by the beds, so as to keep the soil dry upon the surface until the Mushrooms appear, after which the soil must be kept moist, the supply of air being regulated so as not to allow it to become dry. Strong light, or sun's rays must be kept off the sashes to keep an even temperature, as a sudden raise of 10° would be of great detriment to the young Mushrooms near the surface. I spread half a peck of soil charged with Am- monia under each sash over the surface of the bed every two weeks, after gathering has commenced, which should be in from five to six weeks. Frames made up in this way will bear good crops from November to April. "Bemarks. Mushroom spores will repro- duce themselves in fourteen days, from dry spawn put into active state, so in case where the beds have been found dry, after fermenta- tion has ceased, which is often the case if not watched closely ; after having been spawned two weeks, take a watering pot with a fine sprinkler and water the surface so as to pen- etrate about two inches with water at 90 degrees, at the same time raising the temper- ature of the house 10 degrees. Mushrooms will then appear in from five to six weeks. ' ' Best Temperature for Mushroom-house 57 degrees. 1 ' Best Condition. Moist only to a percep- tible degree, the surface soil kept damp by watering moderately with clear water, of a temperature of not less than 80 degrees, ap- plied with a syringe or a watering-pot with a fine sprinkler. To have the beds packed solidly, as recommended by a great many growers, is a mistake, as the thread-like spawn, cannot travel freely enough through the material of the bed — have the beds firm only. For storing spawn in a dry state, with which to spawn other beds, it is best to have it in solid material as it will handle better than in flakes. " Atmosphere. The best means to keep the atmosphere of a Mushroom-house moist, is to place a few barrels of fermenting manure in the house, changing them when cooled off. This will obviate running the risk of getting the beds too wet from the syringe or watering pot. " Ventilation. The passage of air must be from the top, and must be fully under control at a temperature not below 45 degrees on entering the house. Avoid all currents of air on the surface of the bed when in bearing. " Heating. Use hot-water pipes as little as possible, and only when the house drops below 55 degrees. Hot-water pipes within eight inches of the bed will damage the Mush- AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 265 MUS rooms. Keep a temperature as near 57 degrees as possible, a sudden change of ten degrees higher or lower will have a bad effect." Mushrooms on Pasture Lands, etc. A simple method of growing Mushrooms on pasture lands or on lawns is to take pieces of spawn — about the size of a hickory-nut — and lift the sod with a trowel or spade, just suffi- cient to get the spawn under it and then press it down tight. Set the pieces of spawn one to two feet apart. Three or four dollars' worth of spawn, which can be got from any seeds- man, is sufficient for an acre. The best time to place the spawn under the sod is from middle of May to middle of June, and in a favorable season a fair crop can be expected the following September, or in three or four months from time of planting. Musk Mallow. See Malva. Muskmelon. Cucumis melo. See Cucumis. The cultivation of the Muskmelon was car- ried on at a very remote period. It is said to be a native of the central part of Asia, and to have been brought into Europe from Persia ; but the date of its first culture is so remote that there is no certain knowledge on the subject. It appears to have been brought into Italy early in the first century, if not be- fore, as it is mentioned ty Pliny, who died from suffocation caused by the great eruption of Vesuvius in A. D. 79. In his works he de- scribes the methods by which Melons were grown or forced, so as to be obtained for the Emperor Tiberius at all times of the year. Of the Melon there are many varieties. Of the various classes of Melons, one of the oldest and best is the Cantaloup, which, ac- cording to M. Jacquin, derives its name from Cantalouppi, a seat belonging to the Pope, near Rome, where this sort, brought from Armenia by the missionaries, was first culti- vated. The flesh of this, with its varieties, is yellowish or pink. The Nutmeg and Citron varieties, which are the more common in our markets, are supposed to be the African or Egyptian Melons of the early writers. The Melons of Persia have long borne a high character, and differ materially from the varieties commonly cultivated. They are ex- tremely rich and sweet, and instead of the thick rind of the common melons, they have a very thin and delicate skin, which makes a fruit of the same apparent size contain nearly twice as much edible flesh. From this peculiarity they are difficult to handle and ship ; and they are likewise more difficult of culture, requiring a long, warm season to ripen to perfection. The most popular Melon of the New York markets is the " Hackensack," a green-fleshed, finely netted variety, cultivated in immense quantities in the vicinity of Hackensack, N. J. Musk-Plant. See Mimulus Moschatus. Musk-Thistle. Carduus Nutans. Musk Tree, or Musk Wood. Eurybia (Aster) argophylla. Musquash Root. One of the popular names of Cicuta maculata. Mussae'nda. The Cingalese name of one of the species. Nat. Ord. Rubiacece. A small genus of tropical evergreen shrubs. M. frondosa is a very pretty species, with ter- minal clusters of yellow flowers, surrounded MYL by bracts of pure white, which give it a very singular appearance. The leaves of some of the species are esteemed for their medicinal properties. M. vmiflora is a vigorous, free- flowering, handsome plant, suitable for basket culture. They are natives of the East Indies, and are propagated by cuttings. Introduced in 1814. Mu'sschia. Named after J. H. Mussche, once Director of the Botanic Garden at Ghent. Nat. Ord. Campanulacece. A small genus of perennial herbs or small shrubs, natives of the Island of Madiera. M. aurea is a fine herbaceous perennial, bearing its rich, golden-yellow flowers in erect, loose panicles. Introduced in 1777. Syn. Campa- nula aurea. Mustard. See Sinapis. Mustard. Hedge. See Erysimum. Mustard Tree of Scripture. Supposed to be the common Mustard-plant (Sinapis alba, or nigra), which in Palestine is said to attain the height of ten to fifteen feet. The late Dr. Royle endeavored to prove that Salvadora Persica was meant, but this tree does not grow in Galilee. Muticous. Pointless. Muti'sia. Named after C. Mutis, a South Ameri- can botanist. Nat. Ord. Composite. A small genus of ornamental green-house climbing plants, natives of South America, chiefly confined to the Andes of the West, and especially of Chili. The flowers are produced in terminal heads or clusters, and are mostly of a pink, purple, or yellow color. They re- quire a warm place in the green-house. Prop- agated by cuttings. Introduced in 1832. Myce'lium. A word equivalent to spawn, de- noting the negative part of Fungi, the greater part of what most readily attracts attention being frequently merely the fructification. The vegetative part of a mushroom, for in- stance, is represented by the delicate white down and strings which traverse the soil, the fruit is the stem, pileus, and gills, which we call the mushroom. Fungi, except the lowest forms, are made up chiefly of long, slender threads, composed of rows of cells placed end to end : these threads usually branch, and are interwoven so as to form a tissue that seems frequently composed of cells united in the way observed among other plants, though really only a false, soft, cellular tissue. Mygi'nda. Named after Francis von Mygind, a German botanist. Nat. Ord. Celastracece. A small genus of glabrous or pilose shrubs, natives of tropical America and Chili. M. latifolia, the best known species, has small white flowers in bunches at the ends of the branches. It was introduced in 1795, and is propagated by cuttings of the ripened wood. Myloca'ryum. Buck-wheat Tree. From Myle, a mill, and karyon, a nut ; the dry seeds have four wings like a windmill. Nat. Ord. Cyril- lacece. M. ligustrinum, the only species is a half- hardy, evergreen shrub, with terminal racemes of white fragrant flowers. It is a native of the Southern United States, and succeeds best here in the cool green-house. It is propa- gated by cuttings of the half-ripened shoots. This plant is now named Cliftonia ligustrina by many botanists. 266 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS MYO Myopo'rum. The typical genus of Myoporacem, consisting of upwards of fifteen species of shrubs chiefly from Australia. Flowers often white, small or medium. They are increased by cuttings, but few of the species are in cultivation. Myosoti'dium Nobile. The only representa- tive of the genus is a very handsome, hardy, or nearly hardy herbaceous perennial, resem- bling a gigantic Forget-me-not, and belonging to the same natural order, Boraginacece. It is difficult of cultivation ana seems to do best in a cool, damp, sheltered situation, Myoso'tis. Forget-me-not. From rays, a mouse, and otos an ear ; resemblance of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Boraginacew. A genus of hardy and half-hardy annuals and perennials, comprising numerous European, northern Asiatic, and one or two native species. The herbaceous species succeed best in moist places, but all may be grown in pots, provided they are kept well watered. They are usually grown, however, in cold frames like Pansies. M. dissitiflora is a handsome species, from Switzerland, closely allied to M. sylvatica, with large, deep sky- blue flowers, and larger in all its parts than the latter. It is one of the best sorts for winter blooming, and succeeds best grown in a cool house like Mignonette. M. palustris, the true " Forget-me-not," is a well-known hardy perennial from six to twelve inches high, flowering in a cool moist position all summer. M. Azorica with its variety known as Imperatrice Elizabeth, form beautiful branching bushes, six to twelve inches high, covered with numerous heads of bluish- purple flower. It is a native of the Azores, and is not so hardy as the other species, but is very useful for green-house decoration in the winter and spring months. They are all readily propagated by division, or by seed. My'rcia. A mythological name. Nat. Ord. Myrtacew. A very large genus — over three hundred species — of trees or shrubs, all natives of tropical and sub-tropical America. The flow- ers are small, and very few of the species are in cultivation. My'rica. Bayberry, Wax Myrtle, Sweet Gale. From myrio, to flow ; found on the banks of rivers. Nat. Ord. Myricacece. A genus of green-house evergreen and hardy shrubs. The former are not much grown. Of the latter M. cerifera is a shrub common to New York and the Atlantic coast, growing four to eight feet high. The foliage has a pleasant fragrance, and is used to a large ex- tent in mixing with flowers used in summer bouquets. In New England the wax which invests the berries is collected in considerable quantities. It is obtained by boiling the ber- ries in water, when the wax melts and rises to the surface. Under the name of Bayberry tallow it is often used to make candles, either alone or mixed with tallow ; it is also em- ployed in soap-making. Myrica'ceae. A natural order of trees or shrubs with resinous glands, alternate leaves and unisexual flowers. They inhabit tem- perate and tropical countries, and have aromatic, tonic, and astringent properties. The order contains but one genus and about thirty-five species. MYK Myrica'ria. From murike, the Greek name of the Tamarisk. Nat. Ord. Tamaricacem. Of the several species that are included in this genus, M. Germanica is the only one of special interest. It is a hardy evergreen shrub from six to eight feet high, with very narrow, flat leaves, and long spikes of delicate pink flowers. It is indigenous throughout most parts of Europe and the Caucasus. It is of easy culture, and very ornamental. Propa- gated by cuttings of young shoots, either in spring or autumn. Myriophy'llum. Water Milfoil. From myrios, a myriad, and phyllon, a leaf ; division of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Haloragacece. An extensive genus of hardy aquatic plants, allied to Hippuris. The several species are common in ponds and ditches throughout the United States. M. spicatum makes a desirable plant for the aquarium. Myri'stica. Nutmeg. From myristikos, sweet- smelling. Nat. Ord. Myristicacew. M. moschata or fragrans, a beautiful branch- ing tree, growing about thirty feet high, pro- duces the Mace and Nutmegs of commerce. It is principally grown in the Banda Isles, though common in Java and the Molucca Islands. The male and female flowers are on different trees. The flowers of both are small, white, bell-shaped, and without any calyx ; the embryo fruit appearing at the bottom of the female flower in the form of a little reddish knob. The female flowers grow on slender peduncles, two or three together, but it is- rare that more than one flower in each bunch comes to maturity and produces fruit ; this resembles in size a small peach, but it is rather more pointed at both ends. The outer coat is about half an inch thick when ripe, at which time it bursts at the side and discloses the spices. These are, the Mace, having the appearance of a leafy net-work of a fine red color, which seems the brighter by being con- trasted with the shining black of the shell that it surrounds. This is laid to dry in the shade for a short time, but if dried too much a great part of its flavor is lost by evaporation. On the other hand, if packed too moist, it either ferments or breeds worms. The Nutmeg is contained in a shell somewhat harder than that of the filbert, and could not in the state in which it is gathered be broken without injuring the nut. On that account the nut& are successively dried in the sun, and then by fire heat, till the kernel shrinks so much as to rattle in the shell, which is then easily broken, and the Nutmeg released. After this process, they are several times soaked in sea- water and lime, and then laid in a heap, where they heat and get rid of their superfluous moisture by evaporation. This process is pursued to pre- serve the substance of the nut, as well as to destroy its vegetative power. When perfectly cured they are packed in dry slacked lime, and sent to market. Myristica'ceae. A natural order of trees and shrubs, natives of the tropical regions of Asia and America, Madagascar, Africa, with one representation in Australia. Myristica the only genus furnishes the well-known Nutmeg and Mace of commerce, and contains about eighty species. Myrobalan Plum. See Prwruus cerasifera- Myrobalans. See Terminalia. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 267 MYR Myro'dia. From myron, myrrh, perfume, and o8me, a smell. Nat. Ord. Slerculiacece. A genus of South American trees or shrubs, with an aromatic odor. There are seven species described of which M. twrbinata is the only one yet introduced. Its flowers are white and very fragrant, otherwise it is of little horticultural interest. It is of easy cultivation, and is propagated by cuttings of the half-ripened shoots. Myrospe'rmum. From myron, myrrh, an aro- matic balsam, and sperma, a seed ; the seeds yield a strong-smelling resin. Nat. Ord. Legumino8CB. This is the genus which produces the Balsam of Peru, used in perfumery and in the prepara- tion of lozenges. They are all from South Amer- ica, and closely allied to Myroxylon, and are mainly interesting for the drugs they furnish. Myro'xylon. Tolu Balsam Tree. From myron, myrrh, and xylon, wood ; the wood is resinous and sweet-scented. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A genus of about six species of evergreen trees, natives of tropical America. M. Tolui- fervm (Tolu Balsam-bearing), the most impor- tant species, is a large spreading tree, with very thick, rough, brown bark. The balsam flows from incisions made in the bark during the hot season, its smell is extremely fragrant, somewhat resembling the lemon, and its taste is warm and sweet. Myrrh. An aromatic, medicinal, gum-resin, yielded by Balsamodendron myrrha, a native of Arabia Felix. See also Myrrhis. My'rrhis. Sweet Cicely or Myrrh. From myrrha, myrrh ; In allusion to the scent of the plants. Nat. Ord. Umbelliferce. M. odora, the only species of interest, is a very graceful-looking plant with finely cut foliage, and an agreeable odor. It is still used in salads in Italy. Native of the moun- tains of Europe and the Caucasus region. Myrsina'ceee. A natural order of trees, shrubs or under-shrubs of variable habit, natives of Africa, Asia and America, and said to abound chiefly in islands with an equable temperature. Little is known of their properties. There are over thirty genera and five hundred species. Myrsine, Ardisia, Theophrasta, and Jacquinia are examples of the order. My'rsine. The old Greek name given by Dio- scorides to the myrtle. Nat. Ord. Myrsinacece. A genus of about eighty species of shrubs or small trees, mostly evergreen, natives of Asia, Africa, and tropical America, a few being indigenous in Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. The berries of M. Africana, a species widely dispersed over Africa and occasionally to be seen in green-house collections, are said to be mixed with barley by the Abyssinians as food for their asses and mules. Syn. Sider- oxylon, Manglilla, and Samara. Myrsiphy'llum. Smilax. From myrsine, a myrtle, and phyllon, a leaf ; resemblance of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Liliacem. M. asparagoides, the well-known Smilax of the florist, is a native of various parts of the Cape of Good Hope. It was first introduced into England in 1702, but was soon discarded. It was again introduced by Mr. Cooper about 1861, who sent it to Kew, where it flowered, and from whence it was disseminated. It is now one of the essentials of a florist's stock ; MYR in fact it is of greater importance than any flower, if we except the Rose. It is of easy culture, as may be inferred from the fact that it is treated in about as many different ways as there are growers. Sow the seed in the green-house in boxes of light rich soil in Jan- uary or early in February. As soon as the plants are three inches high, prick them out first into shallow boxes, and again into thumb pots when established, and grow on in any convenient place, even partially under benches, where little else would grow. "When required shift into three-inch pots, and grow on until about the first of August, and then plant out in the bed where they are to grow, at about six inches from plant to plant, and twelve inches between the rows. This is about the right distance when strings of six or nine feet are used to train on ; if higher the plants may be set farther apart. By the first of January following, they will have made a growth of eight or ten feet, and be ready for cutting. A second growth will at once com- mence, and a crop secured by March or April. When the second crop has been cut, give it a partial rest, clean the bed off, enrich with a light top dressing, and put up the strings for the next year's growth, which will com- mence in August or September. When grow- ing freely it may be liberally supplied with manure water once a week and syringed once a day. This treatment never fails of giving at least two good cuttings a year ; and with a succession of plantings a supply can be had at all times of the year. The strings used should be of a green color, so that in festooning they may not be seen. Although a crop is often taken after the last cutting in April, we pre- fer to use the space in spring for other pur- poses, and plant the young plants of Smilax each year, beginning the first planting in August, as above mentioned. From August to October a light shading should be used on the glass. We find nothing better than naphtha mixed with a little white lead, so as to give it the color of thin milk. This shad- ing can be put on with a syringe in a few minutes. It costs only twenty-five cents for each thousand square feet of glass, and we consider it the best shading for all green- house operations. One important caution in growing Smilax must be given; it will not stand tobacco nor any other kind of smoke or gas, the leaves quickly getting yellow. If infested by the Aphis (Green Fly) tobacco must be used in the liquid state by steeping the stems till of the color of strong tea. "When other plants require to be fumigated in the same house with Smilax, to save the Smilax from injury, it should be first freely syringed, as the smoke will then not hurt the leaves. The same plan should be used with Helio- trope, or any other plants the leaves of which are susceptible to injury from fumigation. Myrta'ceae. A natural order of trees or shrubs, natives chiefly of warm countries, as South America and the East Indies; many, how- ever, are found in more temperate regions, and some of the genera are peculiar to Aus- tralia. Many yield an aromatic volatile oil, some, edible fruits, and others furnish astrin- gent and saccharine substances. The leaves of certain species of Leptospermum, and Mela- leuca, are used as tea in Australia. Pimento, or Allspice is the berried fruits of Eugenia 268 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS MYK Pirnenta, a tree of the West Indies and Mexico. The flower buds of Caryophyllus aromaticus, constitute the Cloves of commerce. Guavas are the fruits of species of Psidium. Punica Granatum, yields the Pomegranate. The species of Eucalyptus, are the gigantic Gum or Fever-trees of Australia. The order is a very extensive one, containing about one hundred genera, and fifteen hundred species. Myrtle. See Myrtus. Myrtle. Sand. Leophyllum buxifolium. Myrtle. Wax or Candleberry. Myrica cerifera. My'rtus. From myron, signifying perfume. Nat. Ord. Myrtacece. A genus of beautiful evergreen shrubs, na- tives of Europe, Asia, South America, and some of them of New Holland. The common Myrtle, M. communis, of which there are eight or ten very distinct varieties, is too well known to require any description. It is not sur- NAN passed in beauty of foliage by any exotic shrub, and the flowers are of a pure white, and, like the leaves, fragrant. The fragrance arises from an oil which is secreted in little cells, which appear as dots when the leaves are held up to the light. The handsomest varieties of the common Myrtle are the Eoman, or broad-leaved, the broad-leaved Dutch, the narrow-leaved, and the double- flowered. M. Nummularia, a native of the Falkland Islands spreads over the ground like common Thyme. M. Vgni (syn. Eugenia Ugni), introduced from Valdivia in 1845, forms a very pretty, cool green-house plant, with white flowers succeeded by red or black glossy fruits, which, when ripe, are highly flavored and emit an agreeable perfume. It is quite hardy in the Southern States. All the species are readily propagated by cuttings of the partially ripened shoots. K "VTabee. The Bish or Bikh. A powerful Indian 'i-1 poison obtained from Aconitumferox. Naege'lia. Named after Karl Neegeli, an eminent German botanist. Nat. Ord. Gesneracem. This genus was formerly included with Ges- nera, of which the type is the well-known G. zebrina. They are deciduous green-house plants natives of Mexico. The leaves are oval-shaped, of a green color, and have a velvety appearance, being thickly covered with short crimson hairs, which give them a rich velvet-like hue. They have erect racemes of large, showy flowers, mostly bright scarlet. They are propagated and cultivated the same as recommended for Gesnera. Nagkesur. See Mesua. Na'ias. From Naias, water nymph. A genus giving its name to the order Naidaceoz. All the species are little branching herbs, grow- ing under water and are only of botanical interest. Naidaceae. Pond-weed Family. A natural order of plants living in fresh or salt water, widely distributed over the globe, and of but little horticultural interest. There are about six- teen genera and over one hundred species ; Aponogeton, Nais, and '"riglochinare examples. Nail-wort. A common name for Paronychia, which see. Naked Seeds. Seeds having no pericarpal covering, as in Conifers and Cycads. Na'ma. From nama, a stream of water ; allud- ing to their natural habitat. Nat. Ord. Hydro- phyllaceaz. A genus of annual or perennial herbs or shrubs, natives of northwest America and Mexico. The species are not much cultivated. N. Parryii, the best known, introduced to cultivation from California in 1881, is a half- hardy herbaceous plant, with lilac-purple flow- ers in dense clusters, on terminal branched panicles. It is propagated by division or by cuttings. Nancy Pretty. A common English name for Saxifraga umbrosa. Nandi'na. From Nandin, the name of the shrub in Japan. Nat. Ord. Berberidacem. N. domestica, the only representative of the genus is a handsome, erect, half-hardy green- house shrub, with ternately-compound leaves and terminal compound panicles of white flowers with yellow anthers, followed by round, red berries, about the size of peas. It is a native of China and Japan where it is extensively grown ; it is also a favorite orna- mental plant in the Southern States where it is now thoroughly domesticated. It was introduced to cultivation in 1804, and is propagated by cuttings of the well-ripened wood. Na'nnorhops. From nannos, dwarf, and rhops, a bush ; in reference to the low growth of the plant. Nat. Ord. Palmaceaz. N. Ritcheana, the only described species, is a low, unarmed, plant-stove palm, with a tufted, creeping caudex. The leaves of this plant are used in India for the manufacture of fans, sandals, baskets, etc. It is propagated by off- sets or by seeds. Nano'des. From nanodes, a pigmy. Nat. Ord. OrchidacecE. A small genus of very dwarf, rare and beauti- ful Orchids, natives of Brazil and the West Indies. N. Medusa, the principal one under cul- tivation, is thus described by B. S. Williams, in the " Orchid Growers' Manual." "This is a very rare, most extraordinary, and beautiful plant, very distinct in habit from any other Orchid I have seen. There is no bulb to support it.only a woody stem with light green leaves on both sides, which are about three inches long ; flowers large, terminal, produced two or more together ; sepals and petals light green, tinged with brown ; lip large and spreading, deeply fringed round the margin, rich maroon in color, except towards the base, where it is green. It requires to be grown on a block, or a68 NARCISSUS (TRUMPET MAJOR). NARCISSUS ALBUS PLENUS ODORATUS, NIEREMBERGIA RTVTTLARIP. NARCISSUS POLYANTHUS (PAPER 'WHITE). NASTURTIUM OFFICINALE (WATER CRESS). NEMOPHTLA. KARCI86US (VAR. "SIR 'WATKIN "). 269 AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 269 NAN in a basket with moss and peat, and kept very cool, as it is a native of the higher Andes of western South America." Nanus. Dwarf. Napiform. Turnip-shaped. Napoleo'na. Named in honor of the Emperor Napoleon. Nat Ord. Myrtaceaz. A very singular genus of shrubs, natives of western tropical Africa, whose place in the natural system is a contested point among botanists. " Among the most remarkable plants that have hitherto been discovered ranks this rare species. It forms a bush about as large as a Camellia, and some idea of the structure of its flowers may be formed when we state that the species has been referred to the natural order Passifloracece by some botanists, and to Cucurbitacem by others." — Paxtou. "Whitfield, a botanical collector, brought with him in 1843 from Sierra Leone, dried specimens and living plants, one of the latter of which, flowering a few years later, cleared away all uncer- tainty as to its location in the natural system. The propagation of this plant may be effected by cuttings, and in other respects its treat- ment should resemble that of the Gardenia. Narci'ssus. Name of a youth said to have been changed into this flower. Nat. Ord. Amarylli- daceai. In this genus of ornamental, usually hardy bulbous plants, we have a long list of estab- lished favorites, remarkable alike for the ele- gance, fragrance, and precocity of their flowers. The majority of them will thrive in almost any soil or situation, though they will succeed best in a thoroughly drained, toler- ably rich soil, and if the position is one partially shaded from the hot sunshine in spring, the flowers will retain their beauty for a much longer period than if more fully ex- posed. The hardy sorts, when grown in the open borders, should be planted in September in newly-dug, well-manured ground at a depth of three inches, reckoning from the top of the bulb to the surface of the soil. This will not be too much for any, except, perhaps, the Jonquils, which, from having smaller bulbs, may be placed an inch shallower. When planted in beds and it becomes necessary to remove them to make room for other plants it should be done as soon as their beauty is past. As the bulbs are by no means mature at this time, they should be " laid in " in some slightly shaded place until the foliage is quite withered, when they may be taken up, dried, and stored away until wanted for the next planting season. Narcissi are well adapted for planting in the herbaceous or shrubbery border, or in the grass by the sides of wood- land walks, in open spaces between trees and shrubs, in cemeteries, or in any situation where the flowers may be readily seen on their appearance in spring. The foliage should be allowed to ripen naturally before being re- moved, at which time an annual top-dressing of loam and decayed manure may be applied with advantage. Varieties of Polyanthus Narcissus are very extensively cultivated in pots for green-house decoration, as well as for the use of their highly-fragrant flowers in a cut state. The instructions given for the culture and management of the Hyacinth will be found in every way applicable to the Nar- cissus (see Hyacinth). Of those most com- NAR monly grown for forcing, we prefer the follow- ing: Soliel d'or (yellow, with orange cup), Gloriosus (white, primrose cup), States Gen- eral (white, with citron cup), Grand Primo (white, with citron cup), and Grand Monarque (white, with pale yeliow cup), with the Double Roman (yellow) and Paper White. Double and single sweet-scented Jonquils, N. Jon- quilla, are very fragrant when in flower, and are well adapted for pot culture, as is also the early variety of the Poets' Narcissus, N. poeticus omatus. The Paper White Narcissus, iV Tazetta, is forced in immense quantities by the florists of New York andotherlargecities,and,nextto the Roman Hyacinth and Tulip, is the bulb most extensively grown for this purpose. When grown on a large scale, they are planted in boxes of soil four inches deep at a distance of three to four inches apart, and treated as described for Roman Hyacinths. The hardy varieties of Narcissus or Daffodils, of which large quantities are now used, are forced in the same manner, it being imperative for their success that they be well rooted in the boxes or pots before being brought into heat, as, if they are insufficiently rooted, failure will re- sult. To be in proper condition to force, the pots or boxes should be matted around with the roots. The most reliable single varieties for forcing are Trumpet Major (yellow), Trumpet Minor (yellow trumpet and white perianth), Obvallaris (the famous Tenby Daf- fodil, rich yellow), and Poeticus Ornatus (white) ; of double varieties, Incomparabilis (yellow and orange), Pseudo Plenus, or Lent Lily (yellow and white), and Von Sion (all yellow). Of double whites, Alba plena odorata is the best. For out-doors all of the above are desirable, and in addition many others, such as Horsfieldi, Scoticus, Sir Watkin, Pal- lidus preecox, Leedsii, the varieties of Bulbo- codium, Orange Phoenix, etc. Nardosta'chys. From Nardos, a sweet-scented shrub, and stachys, a spike ; the Nardus of the ancients was close akin to this plant. Nat. Ord. Valerianiacece. This genus comprises two species of hardy perennial herbs, natives of the Himalayas. The flowers are arranged in dense, small heads, rosy-purple in color. The root is short, thick, fibrous, and very fragrant. The only species introduced is N. Jatamansi, which is now generally acknowledged to be the Spiken- ard of the ancients. Narthe'cium. From narthex, a rod; referring to the flower-stems. Nat. Ord. Juncacem. A small genus of hardy herbaceous, Iris- like rushes, well adapted to moist places in the mixed border. N. ossifragum, a native species, produces lively spikes of deep golden- yellow flowers in July and August. It is popularly known as Bog Asphodel. Na'rthex. The ancient Greek name given by Dioscorides to Asafoetida. Nat. Ord. Umbel- lifero3. A genus of tall-growing plants, the most notable of which is N. Asafc&tida, a native of Western Thibet, Persia, etc. ' ' It seems cer- tain from the researches of Falconer and others, that this plant produces some of the Asafcetida of commerce, while Scorodosma fcetida, a gigantic umbelliferous plant, found in the sandy steppes east of the Caspian, as well as some other allied plants, also furnish 270 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS NAS the drug. On cutting into the upper part of the root, a juice exudes which hardens by ex- posure,and is collected and sent to this country from Bombay. The drug is well known for its disgusting odor, which it seems has charms for some people, as the Persians and other Asiatics use it as a condiment." — Dr. Masters, in " Treasury of Botany." The plant is closely allied to Ferula under which genus it is placed by Bentham and Hooker. Naso'nia. From naso, a nose ; in allusion to the column. Nat. Ord. Orchidacem. N. punctata, the only species that constitutes this genus, is a very beautiful little epiphytal Orchid, a native of Peru. It is dwarf- growing plant, with small green alternate leaves. The flowers are large, cinnabar-red, with the centre of the lip yellow, and are pro- duced from the axils of the leaves on a short scape. Nastu'rtium. Water Cress. From nasus, the nose, and tortus, tormented ; referring to the hot, acrid smell. Nat. Ord. Crueiferaz. This genus consists principally of dwarf, uninteresting, weedy looking plants. JV. officinale is the well-known Water Cress, a native of Great Britain. It has become naturalized here, and is common near springs, or open, running water courses. The culture of Water Cress is still comparatively little known in the United States, and as the subject was very fully treated in our vegetable work, «' Gardening for Profit," in 1874, we here quote from that work at length, believing that little else is needed for a full understanding of its cultivation. "This is a well-known hardy perennial aquatic plant, growing abundantly along the margins of running streams, ditches and ponds, and sold in immense quantities in our markets in spring. Where it does not grow naturally it is easily introduced by planting along the margins of ponds or streams, where it quickly increases, both by spreading of the root and by seeding. Many a farmer, in the vicinity of New York, realizes more profit from the Water Cresses cut from the margin of a brook running through his farm, in two or three weeks in spring, than from his whole year's hard labor in growing Corn, Hay, or Potatoes. Water Cress can be best cultivated in places where the streams run through a level tract. Supposing the streams to be a foot deep on an average and six or eight feet wide, running through a meadow, a good plan for cultiva- tion is to make excavations laterally, say in beds five feet wide (with alleys between five feet) to a depth of about eight inches, or deep enough to be flooded by the stream when it is of average height, or, when shallow, by dam- ming it up so as to flood the beds. The ad- vantage of having the beds excavated at right angles to the stream rather than parallel with it is, that in the event of freshets the crop is less liable to be washed away. The length and number of the beds excavated must, of course, be determined by circumstances. Water Cress seeds germinate freely in earth when kept saturated ; hence the beds, when properly leveled and pulverized by digging and raking, should be slightly flooded (enough to saturate the soil only when the seeds ger- minate) ; for, of course, if the beds were filled up with water the seeds would be washed off. NAU After the seedlings have started so as to show green, the water may be gradually let on as they develop. Probably the best time of sowing the seed would be, for the latitude of New York, about the middle of August. When Water Cress is found growing naturally, the beds can be made by setting the plants six or twelve inches apart each way. When the cultivation is once fairly begun there is no difficulty about forming new beds, as few plants grow more rapidly when proper condi- tions are present. If the crop is planted or the seed sown by the middle of August, it will have spread all over the beds by November. The streams being full in autumn, the beds will be fully flooded, so as to protect the plants during winter. It is always found wild growing best in clear, shallow, slowly- running water with a sandy or gravelly bot- tom ; and as Nature is always the surest guide to successful cultivation, the nearer she can be imitated the better the success. I find it is one of the plants the culture of which is not very easy to give by writing, as so much must be determined by the circumstances of locality. Whenever a suitable stream is at command the experiment of growing Water Cress is worth trial, especially when we know that it, in many cases, pays for a given area six or eight times more than any other vege- table cultivated, provided it can be sold in the markets of New York or Philadelphia. It is usually sold in baskets, containing about three quarts, which sell, when first in market, at one dollar each ; and 200 or 300 such are carried in an ordinary wagon, so that from a single load of this simple vegetable, $200 to $300 are realized. The Water Cress has a particularly pleasant pungent taste, agreeable to most people in early spring. It is said, that when Sir Joseph Banks first arrived in England after his voyage around the world, among the first things he asked for were Water Cresses, well knowing their value as a purifier of the blood ; and that he afterward presented one of the largest Water Cress growers for the London market a Banksian Medal, for energy shown in the business, be- lieving that, while he had benefited himself, he had benefited the community. I have no doubt whatever that in situations where irrigation could be used at pleasure, and regular plantations made as for Cranberries, if grown in this way (judging from the enor- mous price they sell at, picked up as they are in the present hap-hazard way), at present prices, an acre would sell for four thousand or five thousand dollars. The name of this genus is frequently mis- applied to the common forms of Tropwolum. Natal Plum. Arduina grandiflora. Natans. Floating under water. Naturalized. Introduced from a foreign coun- try, but growing perfectly wild, and propaga- ting freely by seed. Nau'clea. From naus, a ship, and kleio, to enclose ; the half-capsule is hull-shaped. Nat. Ord. Rubiacete. A genus of trees and shrubs, natives of tropical Asia and the Malayan Islands. N. Gambir, or Uncaria Gambir yields the Gambir or Terra Japonica of commerce. Among the Malays, its chief use is as a masticatory in combination with the Areca-nut and the Betel- AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 271 NAU leaf, but considerable quantities are exported to China and Europe for tanning the finer kinds of leather. It is also used by dyers and curriers. Two or three species are in cultiva- tion, but they are of no horticultural value. Naumbe'rgia thyrsiflora. A synonym of Lysi- machia thyrsiflora. Navarre'ttia. Derivation of name unknown. Nat. Ord. Polemoniacew. Mostly coarse hardy annuals, with blue flowers, from California. They are allied to Ipomosis, and should have the same treat- ment. The genus is now included under Gilia by some botanists. Navelwort. See Cotyledon Navicular. Boat-shaped, the same as Cymbi- form. Neapolitan Violet. ( V. o. pallida plena). A variety of Viola odorata. Nebulose. Clouded. Neck. The upper tapering end of bulbs is called the neck, as in Crinum, Amaryllis, etc. Necklace Tree. See Ormosia. Neck-Weed. A popular name for Cannabis saliva or Hemp. Necta'ndra. From Nektar, and ander, andros, a male (stamen); in reference to the three nectariferous barren stamens. Nat. Ord. Lauracece. A genus of about seventy species of trees or shrubs natives of tropical America, from Brazil and Peru, as far as Mexico and the West Indies. The species most worthy of notice is N. Rodiaii, the Bibisi tree, or Green-heart of British Guiana, the timber of which is largely imported for ship-building. Nectar. The honey, etc., secreted by glands, or by any part of the corolla. Nectariferous. nectary. Honey-bearing, or having a Ne'ctarine. Persica vulgaris var. lazvis. The Nectarine is almost identical with the Peach ; both owe their origin to one and the same parent, Persica vulgaris, and in growth, habit, and general appearance they are almost iden- tical. Most botanists consider them the same species ; the only difference between the two being in the skin, the Nectarine having a smooth and the peach a downy one. The fruit, however, is rather smaller, and is one of the most wax-like and exquisite of all productions for the dessert. They are, perhaps, scarcely so rich in flavor as the finest peach, but have more piquancy, partak- ing more of the peach-leaf flavor. Their identity has often been confirmed by fruit of both sorts being produced not only on the same tree, but on the same stem ; and in- stances are recorded of the same occurring in one fruit, one side of which was downy like the Peach, the other smooth like the Nectar- ine. Nectarines, however, usually produce Nectarines again, on sowing the seeds, but they occasionally produce peaches ; the Bos- ton Nectarine was a seedling from a Peach stone. The French have always considered them the same, and designate them as smooth and downy peaches. The Nectarine is a little more shy of bearing in this country than the Peach, but this arises almost always from the destruction of the crop of fruit by the Curculiol NEI the destroyer of all smooth-skinned fruits in sandy soils. It is quite hardy wherever the Peach will thrive, though it will not generally bear large and fine fruit unless the branches are shortened in annually, about one half of their length. With this easy system of prun- ing, good crops are readily obtained wherever the Curculio is not very prevalent (see Curculio). The culture of the Nectarine is in all respects similar to the Peach (which see). The fol- lowing is a good selection of choice varieties for a small garden : Yiolet Hative one of the very best, of delicious flavor, hardy and pro- ductive ; Elruge, Hardwicke, Boston, Roman, and New White. Nectarosco'rdum. Honey Garlic. From nectar, honey, and skorodon, garlic, referring to honey-pores in the flower of this onion-like plant. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. This genus of bulbs is allied to the Allium, and was formerly called Allium siculum. It is a very curious, hardy bulb, throwing up a flower scape three to four feet high, quite slender, with a cluster of long, pendulous, green or purplish flowers. It grows freely in a light soil, and flowers in June. Introduced from Sicily in 1832. It is increased by off- sets. Nectary. An organ which secretes honey ; an old name for petals and other parts of the flower when of unusual shape, especially when honey-bearing. So the hollow spur-shaped petals of Columbine were called nectaries; also the curious, long-clawed petals of Monks- hood. Needle-and-Thread, Adam's. A popular name for Yucca filamentosa. Needle-shaped. Long, slender, and rigid, like the leaves of a Pine. Negro Corn. A West Indian name for Dhoura. Negro's Head. Phytelephas macrocarpa. Negu'ndo. Box Elder, Ash-leaved Maple. Derivation of name unknown. Nat. Ord. Aceraceaz. A genus of hardy, native, deciduous trees, allied to the Maple. N. aceroides (syn. fraxin- ifolium) is common in Pennsylvania, and South and West. Its variety, N. a. foliis argenteis variegatis, is one of the handsomest variegated trees under cultivation in England, but in the dry, hot climate of the United States, though a native, it is rarely seen in perfection, the leaves burning up under our hot, scorching sun. The leaves are beautifully marked white and green, and it is a plant of rapid and vigorous growth. There are several varie- ties, but none so good as the above. N. Cali- fomicum is found in valleys of the lower Sacramento River and the interior valleys of the coast ranges of the San Bernardino Mountains. The wood is occasionally used in manufacturing furniture, etc. Nei'llia. Named after Patrick Neill of Edinburgh, Scotland, secretary of the Caledonian Horti- cultural Society in the early part of this cen- tury. Nat. Ord. Rosacea. A genus of hardy branching shrubs, natives of northern India, Java, and North America. Two species are in cultivation, both from the Himalayas, bearing terminal racemes of white flowers in June, and forming excellent plants for shrubberies, etc. 272 HENDEBSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS NEJ Ne'ja. A small genus of Composites, consisting of about six south Brazilian perennials, or under-shrubs, with yellow flower-heads. N gracilis is a compact, free-flowering little plant, and has a very neat appearance in the borders. Propagated by seeds or division. Neli'tris. From ne, privative, and elytron, a seed case ; in reference to the berry being without any partitions. Nat. Ord. Myrtacece. A genus of shrubs or small trees, natives of tropical Asia and Australia. Only one or two species are in cultivation. Nelso'nia. Named in honor of D. Nelson, the botanist who accompanied Captain Cook. Nat. Ord. Acanthacece. A small genus of plants distributed over tropical and sub-tropical regions in both the Old and New Worlds. The species consist of diffuse tomentose herbs, and are but little cul- tivated. Nelu'mbium. Nelumbo, Sacred Bean. From Nclumbo, the Cingalese name of N. speciosum. Nat. Ord. Nymphcecece. This genus contains several beautiful spe- cies, all aquatic plants growing in ponds and slow-running streams. N. speciosum is the Sacred Bean or Sacred Lotus of India. It is a native of both the East and West Indies, China, Japan, Persia, and Asiatic Kussia. According to Thunberg, it is es- teemed a sacred plant in Japan, and pleasing to their deities, the images of their idols be- ing often represented as sitting on its large leaves. The worship of the Lotus was com- mon with the ancient Egyptians; it is not now, however, to be met with on the Nile. Herodotus described the plant with tolerable accuracy, comparing the receptacle of the flower to a wasp's nest. Sculptured repre- sentations of it abound among the ruins of Egyptian temples, and many other circum- stances prove the veneration paid to this plant by the votaries of Isis. The Chinese have several varieties, the most beautiful be- ing the rose-colored flowering one. They have always held it in sacred regard. That character has not, however, limited it to merely ornamental purposes, for the roots are not only served up in summer with ice, but they are also laid up with salt and vine- gar for the winter. The leaves are covered with a fine microscopic down, which, by re- taining a film of air over the upper surface, prevents it from being wetted when water is poured on it, the water rolling off in drops ; this has a very pretty appearance, the drops of water looking like drops of molten silver. The Hindoos have a proverb founded on this peculiarity of the leaves, to the effect that the good and virtuous man is not enslaved by passion nor polluted by vice ; for though he may be immersed in the waters of temptation yet, like a Lotus leaf, he will rise uninjured by them. N. luteum (Yellow Nelumbo or Water Chinquapin) is a very beautiful species, with yellow flowers from six to ten inches in diam- eter, common in the Western and Southern States. It has been introduced, probably by the Aborigines, into the Delaware near Phila- delphia, and also in some parts of New Jersey and Connecticut. It may be grown in a large tub, or in a tank, in the same manner in which the white Pond Lily is often grown. Nelu'mbo. See Nelumbium. NEP Nemasty'lis. From nema, a thread, and stylos, a column ; referring to the slender style. Nat. Ord. IridacecB. A genus of half-hardy bulbs, natives of Mexico and the southern United States. They can be grown quite successfully, if treated in the same manner of Ixias and Sparaxis. There are three species in cultivation — N. geminiflora (syn. N. acutus) and N. purpureus, from Texas, and N. ccelestinus, from Florida. All are of dwarf growth with showy blossoms, which, however, are fugacious, though pro- duced continuously. Nemata'nthus. From nema, a thread, and anthos, a flower ; in allusion to the pendant, thread-like peduncles on which the flowers are suspended. Nat. Ord. Gesneracece. A genus of green-house evergreen trailing plants, with large scarlet flowers, singly, in the axils of the leaves. It requires a warm, humid atmosphere, in which it is a rapid grower. It is a native of Brazil. Introduced in 1841. Neme'sia. A name applied by Dioscorides to denote an allied plant. Nat. Ord. Scrophu- lariacecB. A small genus of low-growing annuals from the Cape of Good Hope. They have opposite or whorled leaves, and terminal racemes of white and purplish tinted flowers. They are of but little interest. Nemopa'nthes. Mountain Holly. From nemos, a grove, and anthos, a flower ; it being gener- ally found in groves. Nat. Ord. Aquifoliacece.. N. Canadensis, the only species, is a beau- tiful hardy shrub, indigenous to the moun- tains from Virginia to Maine, Wisconsin and northward. It was formerly called Ilex Cana- densis, and is popularly known as Mountain Holly. It forms a handsome, much-branched shrub, from four to six feet in height, with small white flowers, which are succeeded in autumn by large, beautiful crimson berries. It is increased by seeds or by layers. Nemo'phila. From nemos, a glove, and phileo, love ; the plants delight in a shady situation. Nat. Ord. Hydrophyllacece. A small genus of very beautiful hardy annuals from California. N. insignis, is a beautiful border plant with lovely blue flow- ers, and should be grown in a moist, partly shaded situation. The seed should be sown very early in spring. The Nemophilas make fine pot plants for flowering in the green- house in winter; and for this purpose the seed should be sown early in the fall, and the plants kept rather cool in winter. Neo'ttia. From neottia, a bird's-nest; refer- ring to the interlacing of the numerous roots. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A genus of hardy and green-house terres- trial Orchids of but little interest and rarely cultivated. Neotto'pteris. From neottia, a bird's-nest, and pteris, a fern ; founded on the Bird's Nest or Spleenwort Fern. Linn. Nat. Ord. Poly- podiacece. A genus of veiy interesting Ferns from New Zealand and the East Indies, found in all good collections, now included under Asplenium. Nepentha'ceae. A natural order of curious shrubs or sub-shrubs inhabiting tropical Asia, Madagascar, tropical Australia, New AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 273 NEP Caledonia, and especially the Malayan Archi- pelago. Nepenthes, the only genus comprises upwards of thirty species. Nepe'nthes. Pitcher Plant. From nepenthes, grief -assuaging ; its supposed medicinal qual- ity. Nat. Ord. Nepenthacece. Among the many curious forms which abound in the vegetable kingdom, perhaps few arrest more general attention than do the members of this genus. The extraordinary appendage to the apex of each leaf has obtain- ed for it the appropriate appellation of the Pitcher Plant. Connected with the point of the leaf, by means of a long, pendant, strap- like ligament, hangs a hollow tube, sometimes of the color and consistence of the leaf, shaped much in the manner of some antique vase, which will hold from half a pint to nearly a quart of water, and extending over the mouth • of which is what may be readily likened to a lid, the whole hanging loosely by the strap be- fore mentioned, and appearing only as though provided by a beneficent Providence to catch and preserve the dews of heaven for the supply of the animal population of the sultry clime from which it is obtained. In culti- vation, the species require very similar treat- ment to what is usual for East Indian Orchids. They are of an upright, slender habit, requir- ing some support to their flexible branches ; and for this purpose light iron rods should be fixed to the pot or basket in which they are grown, and circular hoops afford the easiest means of fastening the leaves and pitchers in their respective places. Turfy peat, with an equal quantity of Sphagnum moss, appears to be the most proper medium for their roots and with a damp atmosphere of about 80° in summer they grow vigorously. The neces- sary reduction of heat and moisture in winter must be observed with these as with all other plants. N. distillatoria, the first intro- duced species is still in cultivation though it has been superseded in size and beauty by many later introductions. N. Rafflesiana, like many others has two kinds of pitchers, those on the lower leaves being bladder- shaped, with two fringed wings in front, about four inches long by two wide and beautifully spotted with rich brown ; while those on the upper leaves are less beautifully colored, a good deal longer, and funnel-shaped, narrow- ing gradually to the base where they gracefully curve upward. N. calcarata, N. Hookeriana, N. Northiana, N. lanata, N. Veitchii (syn. N. sanguinea), and N. Rajah with pitchers a foot or more long, are afew of the number of species introduced of late years, while the hybridizer has given us many varieties of equal, if not greater beauty and interest. The genus is distributed throughout Borneo, Sumatra and the adjacent islands of the Indian Archipelago. Increase is had by cuttings, or by separating the offsets produced near the base of the stems of the old plants ; these should be taken off and potted at once in the manner of mature speci- mens, and if allowed the warmest part of the house, or a brisk bottom heat, they soon es- tablish themselves. To believers in the Dar- winian theory of insect-eating plants, the Pitcher Plants offer a good argument. In nearly all the varieties a fluid is found at the bottom of the " pitchers," that seems to at- tract, and at the same time poison ants that NEP flock to it in immense numbers, sometimes a thousand being found in a single " pitcher." Mr. William Smith, Superintendent in the Bo- tanic Gardens, Washington, D. C, holds to the belief that the fluid intoxicates the insects. First introduced in 1820. Nep'eta. Catnip, Cat Mint. From Nepet a town, in Tuscany. Nat. Ord. Labiatce. An extensive genus of hardy herbaceous plants, properly classed with troublesome weeds. N. cataria, the well-known Catnip, which is regarded as an useful herb, and N. Glechoma (Ground Ivy) have become natural- ized throughout most of the States, until they have become more troublesome than useful. The latter is, however, an excellent companion plant to Vinca minor for covering very shady areas or door-yards in the cities or for grow- ing under trees, or other very shady spots in the country. N. G. variegata, a variety its leaves beautifully variegated with white, has been lately introduced from Japan, and is an excellent and valuable basket plant, and it will probably prove hardy. N. cataria, is now being grown in rough waste places for Bee-food, for which it is said to be valuable. N. Mussini, is an old plant, and was once used a good deal for edgings to borders for which its compact growth well suits it. The other species are suitable only for botanical collections. Syn. Glechoma and Cataria. Nephe'lium. An ancient name for Burdock; applied in reference to the similarity of the heads of the flowers and seeds. Nat. Ord. SapindacecB. A small genus of fruit-bearing trees from China and the East Indies. N. Litchi, the best variety has fruit nearly round, about one inch and a half in diameter, with a thin brittle shell of a red color, which is quite warty. When fresh, they are filled with a white, almost transparent, sweet, jelly-like pulp; after they have been gathered some time, the fruit shrivels, turns black, and then bears some resemblance to Prunes. The Chinese are very fond of these fruits, and consume large quantities of them, both green and in the dried state, preserved. Nephro'dium. From nephros, a kidney; the shape of the spore-cases. Nat. Ord. Polypo- diacece. An extensive genus of Ferns, distrib- . uted freely over the warmer parts of the Old and New Worlds, and consisting mostly of species which have more or less the aspect of the common male fern, N. Filix mas. The most familiar species is N. molle, which is everywhere met with in collections of culti- vated ferns as well as among dried ferns from nearly all parts of the world. Many beauti- ful species and varieties, both hardy and exotic, are now in cultivation, and are deserved favorites in all collections. The various genera, however, of this section or group of Ferns, as Polystichum, Sagenia, Aspidium, Lastrea, Nephrodiwm, etc., have been so mixed up by botanists that no two agree as to which particular genus many of the species belong. Nephro'lepis. From nephros, a kidney, and lepis, a scale ; referring to the covering of the seed or spore-cases. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacew. A considerable genus of very handsome tropical Ferns. N. davallioides furcans is by 274 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS NEP far the finest of the family, and the one best adapted for the ordinary green-house. It has no equal for the sitting room or conservatory, being a rapid grower, of graceful habit, and not liable to be injured by sudden changes of temperature. N exaltata, and N. tuberosa (syn. N. cordifolia), are both very desirable species, especially for large hanging baskets. N Duffii is also a very elegant species having fascicles of numerous gracefully-arching narrow fronds. It was introduced from Duke of York's Island in 1878. There are many other interesting and beautiful species, all of easy culture, and rapidly increased by division, or by spores. Nephrospe'rma. From nephros, a kidney, and sperma, a seed ; referring to the shape of the seed. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. N Van Houtteanum, the only described species, is a very elegant, armed, plant-stove palm, with pinnate, gracefully arched leaves, divided into pendulous, acuminate, unequal segments. The plants are very useful for decorative purposes in the young state. It was introduced from the Seychelle Islands in 1868, and is propagated by imported seeds. Syns. Areca nobilis, and Oncospermum Van Houtteanum. Ne'phthytis. Named after Nephthys, the mother-in-law of Typhon. Nat. Ord. Aroidece. A small genus of four species, of which N picturata is remarkable for the handsome variegated character of its foliage. This variegation is peculiar, and quite unique in character, forming a pattern resembling in out- line the tips of fern-fronds laid between the nerves of the bright green-colored leaves, with their points all directed towards the base of the leaf. Introduced from the Congo in 1887. Neptu'nia. Named after the mythological deity Neptune, in reference to the species growing in water. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A singular genus comprising about eight species of prostrate, often floating perennial, herbs or small shrubs. Natives of North and South America, tropical Asia and Australia. N. plena (abounding), the only cultivated species, is a most curious and interesting water-plant with yellow flowers. The white, spongy, lower portion of the stems full of air-cells, enabling the plant to float, are very remarkable. The leaflets and petioles are as irritable as those of Mimosa pudica, and are of an extremely delicate yellowish-green color. It was introduced from Mexico in 1845. N. lutea is found in damp soil near the coast, Key West to Alabama and westward. Neri'ne. Guernsey Lily. Named after Nerine, daughter of Nerius. Nat. Ord. Amarylli- dacece. Showy bulbous plants, the type of which is the Guernsey Lily, and which are natives of the Cape of Good Hope, China, and Japan. The Guernsey Lily is a native of Japan, and the reason why it has obtained its English name is said to be, that a ship laden with these bulbs and other plants from China was wrecked on the coast of Guernsey ; and that the bulbs being washed on shore, took root in the sandy soil of the beach, and flourished there so remarkably as to be supposed to be natives of the island. Whether this story be true or not, it is quite certain that for nearly two NEF, hundred years these bulbs have been culti- vated in Guernsey with the greatest success, growing freely in the open air, and producing abundance of offsets every year, from which the market is supplied. The bulbs are gener- ally planted in spring, in pots of very sandy loam, and placed in some window or other situation where they will have plenty of light They flower in September and October ; and as soon as they have flowered the bulbs are generally thrown away, as they are said never to flower well the second year. This is, how- ever, entirely the fault of the grower, as, if they were planted in a well-drained, sunny border in the open ground, and allowed to mature their new bulbs every year by the agency of the leaves, there is no doubt that they would live as long as any of the kinds of Narcissi, and flower as freely. The true Guernsey Lily is N. samiensis. N. curvifolia is also an exceedingly beautiful species, and one of the most vigorous growers. The flowers which appear at various seasons, are of a bright glittering scarlet, the petals in the sunlight appearing as if sprinkled with gold- dust. It is probably the most showy of the genus, and is known in cultivation as Amaryl- lis or Nerine Fofhergillia. Ne'rium. Oleander. From neros, moist ; refer- ring to their native places of growth. Nat. Ord. Apocynacece. Nerium oleander and its varieties are old and valued inhabitants of our green-houses ; their large and handsome flowers, either double or single, pink or white, produced in the early part of the season, having made them general favorites. As the flowers are borne only on mature, well-ripened shoots, the plants must be well exposed to sun and air during their period of growth. Many beautiful varieties, both double and semi-double, mostly of Conti- nental origin, have been introduced of late years, and are the more valuable on account of their blooming freely when in a young or dwarf state. Neriums are easily propagated by cuttings of the matured leading shoots in a close, narrow, warm place, or they may be rooted successfully in bottles of water, and afterwards potted carefully in soil. Their principal insect enemy is the White Scale, which only persistent sponging or washing with kerosene emulsion will subdue. Not- withstanding their beauty they are one of the most virulent of vegetable poisons. The leaves are fatal to animals ; the flowers have caused death to those who carelessly picked and ate them, and it is on record that the branches divested of their bark, and used as skewers, have poisoned the meat roasted on them, and killed seven out of twelve persons who partook of it. Ne'rtera. From nerteros, lowly; referring to the habit of the genus. Nat. Ord. Rubiacece. A small genus of creeping, herbaceous plants, indigenous to the mountains of Java, the Phillipine and Sandwich Islands, the Andes of South America, Australia, and New Zealand. N depressa, the Bead Plant, com- monly known under the absurd name of Flowering or Fruiting Duckweed, is a beauti- ful hardy perennial rock plant, forming a dense carpet, close to the ground, of creeping stems thickly covered with tiny, small, ovate, almost fleshy leaves. The plant is exceedingly AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 275 NER attractive and conspicuous when covered with its bright orange-red or crimson berries about the size of small peas, and which are produced in the greatest profusion. It may be increased from seeds, but is generally propagated by division of the root, any small piece of which will root freely. It is also well adapted for growing in pots or shallow pans. Intro- duced from the Antarctic Mountains in 1868. Nerves. The strong veins upon the leaves or flowers. Nervose. Nervous ; full of nerves. Nesae'a. A genus of Lythracece, comprising about a dozen species of erect, leafy, perennial herbs, or sub-shrubs, natives of America and Africa, with yellow, purple, or blue flowers. N. verticillata, our native species, is a most showy plant, with four to six-sided stems, two to six feet long, bearing axillary, rose-colored flowers on short pedicels. Found in swampy ground, common in the Eastern States. Netted-veined. Furnished with branching veins forming net-work. Nettle. See Urtica. Nettle Tree. See Celtis. Neuma'nnia. A genus, now included under Pitcairnia. Neurolemma arabidifolia. A synonym for Arabis albida. Ne'viusia. Named in honor of the Rev. R. D. Nevius, of Alabama, the discoverer. Nat. Ord. Rosacem. N. Alabamensis, the only species, is a hand- some shrub, with slender branches and numer- ous large, white, solitary or clustered flowers on terminary peduncles. It differs from its allies, Kerria, Rhodotypus, etc., in having no petals, the absence of which is compensated by the large spreading persistent calyx-lobes. It was discovered in Alabama in 1882, and may be propagated by cuttings. New Jersey Tea. See Ceanothus. New Zealand Flax. See Phormium. New Zealand Spinach. Tetragonia expansa. This is grown as a substitute for summer Spinach, being of a delicate flavor, and con- tinuing available the whole summer. This species is found in Tasmania, Australia, Nor- folk Island, and both sides of South America, as well as in New Zealand and Japan. It is a half-hardy annual under cultivation, and was introduced into England from New .Zealand in 1772 by Sir Joseph Banks, on his return from accompanying Captain Cook on his first voy- age around the world, and disseminated by the English seedsmen. New Zealand Tea. Leptospermum scoparium. Nica'ndra. Named after Nicander, who wrote on medicine and botany about 150 A.D. A genus of Solanacece, comprising only one species, N. Physaloides (Winter-cherry-like), so called from the resemblance of its fruit to that of Physalis, is a stout annual plant, about two feet in height, with smooth, deeply sinuated leaves. Introduced from Peru in 1759. Nico'tiana. Tobacco. Named in honor of John Nicot, of Nismes, ambassador from the King of France to Portugal, who procured the first seeds from a Dutchman, who had them from Florida. Nat. Ord. Solanacece. NIE Of this extensive genus of annuals and per- ennials, the best known and most generally cultivated is N. tabacum, and its varieties. There are, however, several other species largely cultivated, particularly in Mexico, Central America, and the West Indies. The specific name, tabacum, according to Hum- boldt, is derived from the Haytian word for the pipe in which the herb is smoked, and which has been transferred from the instru- ment to the plant. N. repanda is largely grown in the West Indies, and furnishes the material for the celebrated Havana cigars. " Smoking is a custom of very great antiquity in both hemispheres, although, previous to the discovery of America, it was not common among the inhabitants of the Old World, and the substances smoked were either Hemp or such herbs as Coltsfoot. But when Columbus and his followers landed in Cuba in 1492, they discovered the far-famed Tobacco in common use among the natives ; and subse- quent explorers found it was spread over the whole continent of America, where it had been cultivated from time immemorial. The pleas- antly soothing effects of this new herb were so enticing that it soon found patrons among the adventurers, and in an almost incredibly short time after their return to Spain, tobacco- smoking began to be practiced in Europe ; but it did not gain much ground among the nations of the North until the famous Sir Walter Ra- leigh and his companions introduced the custom into England in 1586. At first it met with the most violent opposition ; kings prohibited it ; popes fulminated bulls against it; and sultans sentenced smokers to the most cruel kinds of death. Persecution, how- ever, only helped to spread it. In spite of all penalties, the custom rapidly progressed, un- til, at the present day, it may be said to be almost universally practiced by both civilized and uncivilized man." N. affinis is a good border plant, having long tubed white flowers, which open about 6 P. M., and emit a power- ful and pleasant odor during the evening and night. N. Wigandioides, a shrubby species from Columbia, has large ovate-acuminate leaves, and is well adapted for sub-tropical gardening. Nierembe'rgia. In honor of John Eusebius Nie- remberg, a Spanish Jesuit, author of a History of Nature, Antwerp, 1635. Nat. Ord. Sola- nacem. A very interesting genus of annuals and green-house herbaceous perennials, natives of Central and South America. These interest- ing little plants well deserve attention. N. filicaulis and N. gracilis are among the most beautiful of the class of plants adapted for embellishing the flower garden in summer, or " turning out," as it is termed. A few speci- mens of either, in a tolerably good situation, will keep up a display from June till cut off by the autumnal frosts ; nor are the other species, JV. aristata and JV. calycina, deficient in beauty, though not so well adapted for this purpose, because of their more extended habit. N. rivularis, introduced from La Plata in 1866, is a very handsome hardy perennial, bearing white flowers with a pale-yellow centre. It is a low-growing plant, and is in flower from June till fall in the open border. This species is much used in cemetery decoration. Cut- 276 HENDEKSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS NIG tings put in during the winter in the green- house, will make fine plants for planting out in spring. Nige'lla. Love-in-a-Mist, or Devil-in-the-Bush. From niger, black; the color of the seeds. Nat. Ord. Ranunculacem. Annual plants, with showy flowers, which are, however, almost hidden by their leafy involucres. N. Hispanica is the handsomest species. They only require sowing in March or April in the open border ; or they may be sown in autumn, as they will stand the winter without protection, and will thus be ready to flower early in the summer. They are mostly natives of the south of Europe, and have long been in cultivation. Niger. Black, or black a little tinged with gray. Night Blooming Cereus. See Cereus. Night Blooming Jasmine. See Cestrum. Night Flower. A name given to Nyctanthes arbor-tristis. Night Scented Stock. A common name applied to Hesperis tristis, Malthiola tristis, M. odora- tissima, etc. Nightshade. See Solarium. Night Shade. Deadly. Atropa Belladonna. Night Shade. Enchanter's. See Circcsa. Nigrescens, Nigricans. Blackish. Nimble Will or Drop Seed. A popular name for the grass Muhlenbergia diffusa. Ni'pa. The name of the tree in the Moluccas. Nat. Ord. Palmaeem. N. fructicans, the only representative of the genus, is an ornamental, unarmed, palm-like plant, with a creeping, furcated trunk, feathery leaves, and large round bunches of fruits. Dr. Seemann, in the " Treasury of Botany," says : " It is commonly met with in the salt marshes of the coasts and islands of the Indian seas, and is generally classed with Pandanacece, or Palmaeem, but does not quite agree with either of these natural orders. A similar plant abounds in the tertiaiy formations at the mouth of the Thames, where its fruit must at one time have floated about in as great pro- fusion as those of N. fruticans do at the pres- ent day in Indian rivers. It is rather diffi- cult to grow and is found to succeed best with the pot partially submerged in water ; it was introduced to cultivation in 1822. Niphae'a. From niphos, snow; in allusion to its pure white flowers. Nat. Ord. Gesneracew. A small genus of green-house herbaceous perennials, with pure white flowers. The genus is allied to Achimenes ; it requires the same treatment, and is increased in the same manner. Introduced from New Grenada and Guatemala in 1841. Nipho'bolus. From niphobolos, covered with snow ; referring to the white covering of the spore cases. Nat. Ord. Polypodiaceoz. A genus of Ferns found in the East Indies, Australia, and Africa. They were separated from Polypodium, to which they bear a close resemblance. Some of the species are very beautiful, and well adapted for the Fern-case. They are increased by division or by spores. Ni'tidus. Having an even, smooth, polished surface, as many seeds. NOP Nitra'ria. From nitrum, nitre ; first found by Schreber near the nitre works in Siberia. Nat. Ord. Malpighiacem. Low shrubs with white flowers, which are very hardy, and will grow well in situations exposed to the sea. In gardens, the ground in which they grow should be occasionally watered with water in which saltpetre has been dissolved. Niva'lis. Growing near snow, or appearing at a season when snow is on the ground, Niveus. Snow-white ; the purest white. Node. That part or point in a stem from which a leaf, whether complete or incomplete, arises. Nodose. Nodulose, nodes or knots. Knotted; having many No-Eye Pea. Of the West Indies. See Ca- janus. Noise'ttia. Named after L. C. Noisette, a French nurseryman, author of " Le Jardin Frutier." Nat. Ord. Violaceaz. N. longifolia, the only cultivated species, is a green-house evergreen shrub, introduced from Cayenne in 1824. The flowers are cream color, produced in large clusters. Propa- gated by cuttings. Nola'na. From nola, a little bell ; the form of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Convolvulaceaz. Trailing annual plants, with pretty blue flowers, that only require sowing in early spring in the open border. N. atriplicifolia, the handsomest species, strongly resembles Convolvulus minor. They are natives of Chili and Peru, and were introduced in 1825. Nolana'ceee. A natural order now included under ConvolvulaceoB. Noli'na. Named after P. C. Nolin, a French botanist of the last century. Nat. Ord. Lilia- cecB. A genus of about a dozen species, natives of Mexico and the southern United States. N. Georgiana (Georgian) is a showy plant, with a very large tunicated bulb, and numerous small white flowers crowded in long bracted racemes borne on scapes two to three feet high. It is found on dry sand hills in the middle districts of Georgia and South Caro- lina, and flowers in April and May. This genus is now included by Mr. Baker under Beaucarnea. None-so-Pretty. Saxifraga umbrosa. No'nnea. Named after J. P. Nonne, of Erfurt, a German writer on botany, 1729-1772. Nat. Ord. BoraginacecB. A rather large genus of hardy or half-hardy plants of little interest, except in botanical collections. Noon-Flower, or Noon-tide. Tragopogon pra- tensis. Nopa'lea. From Nopal, the Mexican name for a Cactus. Nat. Ord. Cactaceoz. A small genus of fleshy shrubby plants, closely allied to Opuntia, from which they differ in having erect and conivent, not ex- expanding, petals, and the stamens being shorter than the style, but longer than the corolla. N. coccinellifera, largely cultivated in Mexico and the West Indies, as food for the cochineal insects, is better known as wrcTitn>r»T rmc t\tti?ii NICOTIANA (TOBACCO PLANT). ft- if NICOTIANA ATFINIS. NYMPHXA ALBA. NYCTEBINIA CAPENSI8. NIGELLA HISPANICA. NYMPH^EA DEVONIEN6I8. 277 AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 277 NOR Opuntia cocdnellifera under which name it is described in this work, and which see. Nora'ntea. Altered from Gonora-antegri, the Guiana name of N. Guianensis. Nat. Ord. Ternstromiacece. A genus of handsome epiphytal or climbing shrubby plants, natives of the tropical parts of America. A few species are in culti- vation. N. Guianensis has violet-colored flowers on long spikes with large scarlet bracts. The branches are red, and throw out roots by which they are supported. It is a beautiful species and was introduced to culti- vation in 1818. Norfolk Island Pine. See Araucaria excelsa. Normal. When the ordinary structure peculiar to the family or genus is in nowise departed from. Norway Maple. Norway Spruce. Acer Platanoides. See Abies excelsa. Nosebleed. A common name for the Yarrow. Achillea Millefolium. Notelae'a. From notos, south, and Elaia, the Olive; in allusion to the form and native place of the species. Nat. Ord. Oleacece. A genus of green-house evergreen shrubs, natives of Australia and Tasmania. The flowers are white and are borne in axillary racemes ; the leaves are opposite and entire. N. ligustrina, the Tasmanian Ironwood, yields an extremely hard dense wood, which is used as a substitute for lignum-vitse, and for turn- ery and inlaid work. Nothochlae'na. Prom nothos, spurious, and chlaina, a cloak ; some of the species appear to have an involucre. Nat. Ord. Polypodi- acece. An extensive genus of green-house Ferns found in almost every tropical and sub-tropi- cal country. It is related to Polypodium, dif- fering only in the son. A number of the spe- cies have been introduced into the Fern-house, and among them, N. nivea, a fine Silver Fern, and N. flavens (syn. N. chrysophylla) a very beautiful miniature Golden Fern; N. lanuginosa, N. Marantce (an almost hardy spe- cies), N. trichomanoides, N. sulphurea, and N. Eckloniana, are all very desirable species. They are propagated by spores. Nothosco'rdum. From nothos, spurious, and Scordon, garlic ; in reference to the near rela- tionship which exists between this genus and Allium. Nat Ord. Liliacece. A genus comprising about ten species of green-house, or hardy bulbs, closely allied to Allium, and Milla, in which genera the species of this genus are by some authorities dis- tributed. Natives of North and tropical America, and China. Notospa'rtium. From notos, southern, and Spartium, Broom ; in reference to its being a native of the southern Hemisphere, and its Broom-like appearance. Nat. Ord. Legumi- nosce. N. CarmichcBlice the only species, is a beauti- ful and interesting, half-hardy, Broom-like shrub, or small tree. "This, the 'Pink- Broom,' of the residents of the Middle Islands of New Zealand, is one of the most beautiful plants in the colony, and is further remarkable as being a member of what is one of the largest families of plants in every part of the NUT world, except New Zealand. Indeed, the absence of LeguminoscB in New Zealand, in con- trast with their great abundance in Australia, is the most singular feature in the Flora of the Island." — Hooker. Nudicaulis. When a stem has no leaves. Nu'phar. Yellow Water Lily. From Naufar, the Arabic for Water Lily. Nat. Ord. Nym- phacem. The several species included in the genus are common in ponds and stagnant water in the Middle, Northern, and Western States, and are known as Yellow Water Lilies. Nut. A hard indehiscent pericarp, usually containing only one seed, the fruit or kernel of the seed of various plants ; rarely applied to certain tubers. Acajou, the Cashew Nut. Anacardium occi- dentals. Ar. See Bunium flexuosum. Barbadoes. The seed of Curcus purgans. Barcelona. A variety of Corylus Avellana. Bedda. The fruit of Terminalia Bellerica, called also Bastard Myrobalans. Ben. The winged seed of Moringa pterygo- serma. Betel. The seed of Areca Catechu. Bitter. Carya amara. Bladder. Staphylea trifoliata and *S. pinnata. Brazil or Castanha. The seed of Bertholletia excelsa. Bread. The fruit of Brosimum Alicastrum. Bread. Monkey. The fruit of Adansonia digi- tata. Buffalo. The fruit of Pyrularia oleifera. Butter. Juglans cinerea. Candle. The seed of Aleurites triloba. Cashew. The seed of Anacardium occidentale. Cob. A variety of Corylus Avellana. Cocoa. Cocos nucifera. Cocoa, Double or Sea. Lodoicea Seychellarum. Cola or Kolla. The seed of Cola acuminata. Coquilla. The fruit of Attalea funifera. Earth. Arachis hypogcea, also Buniumflexuo- sum, and Carum bulbo-castanum. Elk. The fruit of Pyrularia oleifera. French. Juglans regia. Ground. Arachis hypogma, also a common name for Aralia (Panax) trifolia. Hazel, English. Corylus Avellana. Hazel, American. Corylus Americana and G. rostrata. Hickory. Carya Alba, and other species. Hog or Pig. Carya porcina. Hog Pea. A common name for Amphicarpavx, which see. Ivory. Phytelephas macrocarpa. Jesuits'. Trapa nutans. Malabar. Adahota Vasica. Marking, Maranay or Marsh. The nuts of Semecarpus Anacardium. Mocker or Moker. The nut of Carya tomen- tosa. Monkey. Arachis hypog&a, and the seeds of Anacardium. Oil. The fruit of Pyrularia (Hamiltonia) olei- fera, also a West Indian name for the seeds Ricinus communis. Olive. The fruit of Elmocarpus. Pea. See Arachis hypogwa. Pecan. Carya olivaformis. Physic. Curcus purgans. (Syn. Jatropha pur- gans.) 278 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS NUT The edible seed of Pistachia, or Pistachio. Pistachio, vera. Poison. The poisonous seed of Strychnos nux vomica. Rush. Cyperus rotundus var. Hydra, and C esculentu8. Sapucaia. The seed of Lecythis Zabucajo, also, L. Ollaria and L. grandiflora. Sassafras. Nectandra Puchury. Singhara. The fruit of various species of Trapa, especially T. bispinosa and T. bi- comis. Soap. Mimosa abstergens. Souari or Suwarrow. The seed of Caryocar nuciferum and C. butryosum. Spanish or Barcelona. Corylus Avellana Bar- celonensis, also Mor&a Sisymchium. Vegetable Ivory. Phytelephas macrocarpa. Water. The fruit of various species of Trapas. Wood. Corylus Avellana. Nutans. Nodding; inclined very much from the perpendicular, so that the apex is directed downward, as the flower of the Snowdrop. Nut-galls. The galls produced by insects on Quercus infectoria. Nut-gall-tree. Chinese or Japanese, Rhus semi- alata. Nut-grass. Cyperus rotundus, var. Hydra. Nutmeg. See Myristica, moschata. American. Monodora myristica. Brazilian. Cryptocarya moschata. Californian. Torreya myristica. Clove. Agathophyllum aromaticum. Peruvian. The seed of Laurelia sempervirens. Plume. Atherosperma moschata. Wild. Myristica fatua, and M. tomeniosa. Nutmeg-Geranium. See Pelargonium fragrans. Nutmeg-wood. The wood of the Palmyra Palm, Borassus flabelliformis. Nut Pine. Pinus monophylla (syn. P. Fremon- tiana), and P. Sabiniana, the seeds of the latter are collected in immense quantities by the Californian and Oregon Indians as an article of winter food. Nutta'llia. Named by Torrey and Gray, in honor of Thomas Nuttall, of Cambridge, Mass., an eminent botanist. Nat. Ord. Rosacece. This genus consists of but one species, N. Cerasiformis, a small ornamental deciduous shrub, of nearly globose habit, branching freely, and producing its drooping racemes of white flowers in great abundance. Easily increased by seeds, or by suckers, which spring plentifully from the roots. Introduced to cultivation from California in 1848. Nux Vomica. See Strychnos. Nuy'tsia. Fire Tree. Named after T. Nuyts, a Dutch navigator. Nat. Ord. Loranthaceai. A genus of very handsome shrubs or small trees from Swan River, Australia, remarkable as being the only one in this order of parasites that grows on the ground. From the abun- dance of its brilliant orange-colored flowers, the colonists call it the Flame-tree or Tree of Fire. Nyctagina'ceae. A natural order of herbs, shrubs or trees, natives of tropical regions, principally America, with opposite unequal leaves and involucrate flowers. The plants of the order have in general purgative quali- ties ; that of Mirabilis Jalapa (false Jalap) has NYM the nauseous smell of the true Jalap, with which it was long confounded. The order comprises about twenty genera, and one hundred species. Mirabilis, Bougainvillea and Abronia, are illustrative genera. Nycta'nthes. Sad Tree. From nyctos, night, and anthos, a flower ; the flowers open in the evening. Nat. Ord. Oleacem. The only species is a free-flowering shrub or small tree, native of India. The flowers open only in the evening, and drop before morning ; their fragrance perfumes the air at night. The flowers are gathered in the morn- ing and worn as necklaces and in the hair by the native women. As it loses its bright- ness during the day it has received its specific name, N. arbor tristis, or Sad Tree. Nycteri'nia. From nycterinos, nocturnal ; the flowers being fragrant during the evening. Nat. Ord. Scrophulariacece. A genus of half-hardy annuals, perennials, or under-shrubs, natives of the Cape of Good Hope. A few of the species have been under cultivation but they are chiefly plants of little interest. Syn. Zaluzianskia. Nycte'rium. A genus now classed under So- lanum. Nycto'calos. From nyx, night, and kalos, beautiful; because the handsome flowers of the first species discovered open in the even- ing and fade in the morning. Nat. Ord. Bignoniacece. A small genus of twining, shrubby plants, natives of the Malayan Archipel- ago, Assam and Queensland. N. Thomp- soni, the only introduced species is a handsome stove-house climber, with white Gloxinia-like flowers nearly seven inches long. It expands only at night and drops the next morning. It was introduced from Assam in 1868. Nymphse'a. Water Lily. From nymphe, a water nymph. Nat. Ord. Nymphceacece. This genus consists of beautiful water plants found in lakes, ponds and rivers in almost all parts of the world. N. odorata is the double white Water Lily or Pond Lily, so common and well-known throughout the Eastern and Southern States. Of this species there are several varieties, mostly having pure white flowers, remarkable for their fra- grance. There is, on the Island of Nantucket, and also near Barnstable, Mass., a variety with pinkish flowers, and rarely with bright pink-red flowers. They are exceedingly beautiful, and valued highly for their rarity. The cultiva- tion of all our native species in tubs on the lawn, or wherever desired, is attended with but little difficulty. The roots should be ob- tained from their native habitat as early in spring as possible, or at least before they have made much growth. Take any tub or cask, say eighteen inches in depth, put in good rich loam or muck to the depth of six or eight inches, in which plant the roots, barely covering them, and fill the cask with water, replenishing it as it loses by evapora- tion. In winter empty the water and remove to a cold cellar, or protect from hard freezing by a covering of leaves. This is all the care and trouble required to produce flowers almost as fine as are found in their natural homes. Artificial ponds can be made upon the lawn AND GENEKAL HORTICULTURE. 279 OAK with but little expense, in -which the Nympheea may be grown with less trouble even than in tubs. Dig out a basin-shaped pond of any de- sired size, to the depth of two and a half feet in the centre, cement in the same manner as for a cistern, put in some earth, and plant the same as in a tub. Cover over with boards upon the approach of cold weather, and then cover all with leaves or coarse litter sufficient to protect the cement from frost. This will not only furnish beautiful aquatic flowers, but will attract thousands of birds, particu- larly robins, daily for their baths. Many of the rarer exotic species, such as N. gigantea, N. Zanzibar ensis, N. cmrulea, N. rubra, N. scutifolia, N. Devoniensis, N. Lotus, etc., are now grown in this way, and are exceedingly attractive during the summer. The Water Lily, when expanded, towards evening has the peculiarity of enticing myriads of insects to light on its petals, the petals gradually OCH close as evening falls, and the insects are imprisoned. They are propagated by seeds, which, in most cases, ripen freely, and should be sown in small pots of soil and sub- merged in shallow warm water in spring. The seedlings will grow freely, and if prop- erly treated, will flower well the same season. Ny'ssa. Tupelo, Pepperidge, Sour Gum. From Nyssa, a water nymph ; because of the habitat of the species. Nat. Ord. Cornacece. A genus of beautiful low-growing trees, common in moist woodlands and low grounds throughout the United States. The wood is very tough and difficult to split, and on that account it is valued for hubs of carriage wheels, hatter's blocks, and similar work. The foliage of this genus is remarkable for its fine glossy verdure during summer, and its rich crimson tints in autumn, when it is. one of the brightest ornaments of the forest. o. Oak. The popular name for the trees of the genus Quercus, which see. Oak. Black. Quercus Robur. Chestnut. Quercus sessiliflora. Chestnut, American. Quercus Primus. Cork. Quercus Suber. Evergreen. Quercus Hex. Indian. Tectona grandis. The Teak tree. Japanese. Quercus glabra. Jerusalem. Chenopodium Botrys. Live. Quercus virens. An important ship- building wood. Nut-gall. Quercus infectoria. Pin. Quercus palustris. Poison. Rhus toxicodendron- Scarlet. Quercus coccinea. Scrub. Quercus Catesbmi and Q. ilicifolia. Swamp. Quercus Prinus. Turkey, American. Quercus Catesbcei. White, American. Quercus alba. Willow. Quercus Phellos. Yellow. Quercus Castanea. Oak-Fern. Polypodium Dryopteris. Oak-leaved Geranium. See Pelargonium. Oat or Oats. See Avena. Oat-Grass. See Arrhenantherum, also Avena pratensis and Bromus mollis. Oat. Water. A name given to Water Rice. Zizania aquatica. Obelisca'ria. From obeliskos, obelisk, in allu- sion to the elevated disk of the flower. Nat. Ord. Composite. A small genus of half-hardy, showy peren- nials, common in Texas. They, too, closely resemble their allied species, the Rudbeckia, to become favorites in the garden. Obero'nia. So called after Oberon, the Fairy King, in allusion to the quaint and variable forms of the plant. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A genus of Orchids, all epiphytal, having terminal spikes of minute flowers, of but little interest except to botanists. In refer- ence to the genus Dr. Lindley says : " The resemblance to insects and other animal forms, which have been perceived in the Orchidace- ous plants of Europe, and which have given rise to such names as Fly Orchis, etc., may be traced so plainly in the genus Oberonia, in every species, that it alone would furnish a magazine of new ideas for the grotesque pen- cil of a German admirer of the wild and preternatural. If the Brahmins had been botanists, one might fancy they took their doctrine of metempsychosis from these pro- ductions." They are chiefly natives of India and Africa. Obscure. Of a dark, dingy color. Obtuse. Blunt or rounded. Oca. The tubers of Oxalis tuberosa and 0. crenata are so called in Brazil, where they are cooked and used like potatoes. Occidental. Coming from or relating to the west, as Platanus Occidentalis. O'chna. From Ochne, the old Greek name for the wild Pear, to which the foliage of this genus bears some resemblance. Nat. Ord. Ochnaceai. A genus of about twenty-five species of ever- green shrubs, natives of tropical Asia and Africa, only a few of which are in cultivation. O. multiflora, is a most remarkable as well as handsome plant. The fruit is about the size of a Strawberry, but less conical, and upon it are placed black seed-like bodies about the size of Peas. These are really the carpels, and present a striking contrast to the bright crimson receptacle and calyx. It is a native of Sierra Leone, and was reintroduced in 1882. Ochna'ceae. A natural order of trees and shrubs scattered over the whole of the tropics, but mostly in America. Some of the species possess tonic properties, and the berries of Gomphia Jabotapiia, are edible. The order contains twelve genera, including Gomphia, 280 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS OCH and Luxemlwrgia, and about one hundred and fifty species. Ochra or Ochro. Abelmoschus esculentvs. Ochraceous. Having the color of clay, or yellow ochre. Ochroca'rpus. From ochros, pale yellow, and karpos, a fruit ; alluding to the color of the fruits. Nat. Ord. Guttiferx. A genus of tropical trees, natives of Africa, Asia, and the Mascarene Islands, of little horticultural interest. O. Africanus, bears a large fruit with a thick rind and a yellow pulp. The tree abounds with a yellow resinous gum. Syn. Mammea. Ochroleucus. Whitish-yellow. Ochro'ma. Cork-wood. From ochros, pale ; referring to the flowers. Nat. Ord. Malvaceae,. 0. Lagopus, a tree growing from thirty to fifty feet high, known as Corkwood, is com- mon in the West Indies and Central America, where it is employed as a substitute for cork, for stopping bottles ; it is also extensively used for making rafts, floats for fishing nets, and other purposes where light wood is re- quired. Ochro'pteris. From ochros, pale-yellow, and pteris, a Fern ; alluding to the color of the plant. Nat. Ord. Polypodiaceos. O. pattens, the only described species, is an extremely rare and beautiful Fern requiring an abundance of heat and moisture to grow it successfully. It has large decompound fronds, with small, glossy, coriaceous pinules, and is an introduction from the Mascarene Islands and Mauritius. O'cimum. Basil. From Okimon, the old Greek name used by Theophrastus for Basil. Nat. Ord. Labiatce. A somewhat extensive genus of fragrant and aromatic plants, mostly natives of India. The most important of them are O. basilicum, the Sweet or Common Basil, a tender annual, introduced from India in 1548, and 0. mini- mum, the Dwarf or Bush Basil, a native of Chili, and introduced in 1573. The leaves of both species have a strong aromatic smell, and are much used in seasoning soups and various other dishes. Oco'tea. Said to be the native name of the tree in Guiana. Nat. Ord. Lauracece. A large genus comprising about two hun- dred trees or shrubs, natives of tropical America, a few being found in the Canary Islands, South Africa, and the Mascarene Islands. M. bullata, probably the only species yet introduced, has small green flowers, and is a plant of comparatively little interest. It is also in cultivation under the name of Oreodaphne bullata. Octome'ria. From okto, eight, and meris, a part ; in allusion to the pollen masses. Nat. Ord. Orchidacew. A genus of green-house epiphytal Orchids, natives of Brazil, Guiana, and the West Indies. They are curious little Pleurothallis-like Or- chids, and are frequently imported along with Bromeliads, about the bases of which they grow on the trunks of trees. O. graminifolia, with pale-yellow flowers, and 0. Saundersiana, with yellow flowers striped with purple, are the best known species. The latter was intro- duced from Brazil in 1880. (ENO Oculatus. Marked with concentric spots of different colors or tints. O'cymum. A synonym of Ocimum, which see. Odes or Oides. A Greek termination signifying similarity ; as Phyllodes, leaf-like. Odontade'nia. From odous, odontos, a tooth, and aden, a gland; in allusion to the five- toothed glands. Nat. Ord. Apocynacece. A genus of shrubby plants, natives mostly of Brazil and Guiana. O. speciosa, the only introduced species, has showy yellow, deli- cately-scented flowers, borne in large, loose bunches, and is an excellent plant for training on the rafters of the plant-stove. It is propa- gated by cuttings, and was introduced from Trinidad in 1854. Syn. Dipladenia Harrisi. Odontoglo'ssum. From odous, odontos, tooth, and glossa, a tongue ; tooth-like processes on the lip or labellum. Nat. Ord. Orchidacem. A very extensive genus of epiphytal Orchids, found principally in the cool mountain regions of Mexico, Peru, New Grenada, and Venezuela. Very many of the species have been intro- duced into the green-house, and are greatly prized by cultivators for their magnificent flowers, which are remarkable, both for their size and the beauty of their colors. Many of the species have pure white flowers, variously spotted ; some have a powerful odor of violets. With but few exceptions, they require to be grown in a moderately cool house. All the Odontoglossums are propagated by division, none having as yet been raised from seeds. Mr. H. Veitch, in his paper on the " Hybrid- ization of Orchids," 1855, says that numer- ous crosses, between various species, both Mexican and New Grenadan, have been effected, and seed-pods, with apparently good seed, have been produced, but with the utmost care that could be bestowed, no progeny has yet been raised. See Orchids. CEna'nthe. From oinos, wine, and anthos, a flower; referring to the vinous odor of the blossoms. Nat. Ord. Umbelliferw. A genus of mostly uninteresting herbs, fre- quenting wet or marshy places, or even grow- ing in water. (E. crocata is a stout-branched species, attaining a height of three to five feet, and is remarkable as being one of the most poisonous plants of the whole order. The juice of the stem and roots becomes yel- low when exposed to the air. The roots act as a narcotic, acrid poison, and from their re- semblance to parsnips, have been the cause of frequent, and sometimes of fatal accidents. The plant has been used with beneficial results in certain skin diseases, and for the purpose of poisoning rats and moles. CEnoca'rpus. From oinos, wine, and karpos, a fruit; yields palm-wine and oil. Nat. Ord. PalmacecR. An exclusively South American genus of lofty Palms, consisting of several species, some of which yield large quantities of sweet- tasted oil, which is excellent for cooking, and is much used for burning in lamps. CEnothe'ra. Evening Primrose. From oinos, wine, and thera, imbibing; the roots of OS. biennis were formerly taken after meals as in- centives to wine-drinking. Nat. Ord. Onagra- cece. A genus of annual, biennial, or perennial herbaceous plants, natives of North and South AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 281 OFF America, a few species of which are natural- ized over the warmer portions of the globe. Many of the species and varieties are amongst the most beautiful and attractive of hardy plants, their large, showy, fragrant flowers presenting considerable difference in color, some being yellow, others white or purple, and usually opening in the evening. They are all of easy cultivation, readily increased by seeds or division, and are most suitable for the margins of shrubberies, mixed borders, or similar situations. CE. Fraseri, CE. Missou- riensis, CE. biennis, var. Lamarckiana, CE. riparia, CE. Taraxifolia, and many other sorts, will be found excellent for this purpose, while many of the annual sorts, better known under the familiar name of Godetia, are most attractive in mixed borders, especially if sown or grown in clumps or masses. Officinalis. Applied to plants which are useful in medicine or the arts. Offset. Short branches next the ground which take root. Oidium. A name given to a genus of naked- spored moulds, which has obtained consider- able notoriety from its connection with the Vine Mildew, which arises from the attacks of 0. Tuckeri. This fungus derived its name from a gardener at Margate, England, who was one of the first to use suJphur as a remedy. There are many different kinds of Oidium, all peculiar to the plants they most frequent, thus Peas, Hops, Turnips, etc., have their special species to contend against. The best known remedy is an application of the flowers of sulphur, or a weak solution of sulphide of potassium. Oil of Ben. See Moringa. Oil of Bergamot. See Mentha citrata. Oil of Origanum. See Origanum. Oil Palm. See Elceis. Oil Plant. Sesamum orientate. Okra. See Hibiscus esculentus. Oldenla'ndia. Named after H. B. Oldenland, a Dane, who collected plants at the Cape of Good Hope. An extensive genus of Rubiaceaz com- prising nearly seventy species of stove and green-house plants, found in tropical countries, principally in Asia. O. umbellata, commonly known as Chay-root, yields a red dye, and is largely employed by the dyers of southern India, the plant there being extensively culti- vated. O. Deppeana is a favorite free-flower- ing green-house plant, with white flowers, almost constantly in bloom. Old Maid. Vinca rosea. Old Man. Artemisia Abrotanum, Clematis vitalba, and Rosmarinus officinalis. Old Man Cactus. See Pilocereus. Old Man's Beard. Saxifraga sarmentosa, Til- landsia usneoides, and Geropogon, which see. Old Witch Grass. Panicum capillare. Olea. Olive. From elaia, Olive. Nat. Ord. Oleacece. Europoea, var. sativa, the tree that produces the Olives and Olive Oil of commerce, is a low- branching evergreen, growing from twenty to thirty feet high. The leaves bear some re- semblance to those of the Willow, only they are softer and more delicate. The flowers are as delicate as the leaves, and are produced in OLE small axillary bunches, from wood of the former year, and appear from June until August. At first they are of a pale yellow ; but when they expand their four petals, the insides are white, and only the centre of the flower yellow. The matured wood of the Olive is hard and compact, though rather brittle ; its color is reddish, and it takes a fine gloss, on which account the ancients carved it into statues of the gods, and the moderns make it into snuff-boxes, and various trinkets, that find a ready sale to travelers in Eastern lands. An observing visitor to the Holy Land from New York says: "There is annually more Olive-wood sold from the Mount of Olives to Pilgrims than ever grew there." The "Wild Olive is found indigenous in Syria, Greece, and Africa, and on the lower slopes of the Atlas. The cultivated one grows spon- taneously in many parts of Syria, and is ex- tensively cultivated in the south of France, Italy, and Spain, and has been, from all the accounts we can gather, from the earliest periods of the earth's history. The young Olive bears its fruit at two years old ; in six years it pays the expense of cultivation ; after that period, in good years, the produce is the surest source of wealth to the farmer. A com- mon saying in Italy is, if you wish to leave a lasting inheritance to your children's children, plant an Olive. Besides its use for the pro- duction of oil, the unripe fruit is used as a pickle. For this purpose they are steeped in an alkaline solution, to extract a part of the bitter flavor, they are next washed in pure water, and afterward preserved in salt and water, to which fennel, or some aromatic, is sometimes added. Olive branches have for ages been regarded as emblems of peace and plenty. The O.fragrans (syn. Osmanthus frag- rant) is a native of China, and is highly odor- iferous, and on this account is much esteemed by the Chinese, who use the leaves to adulter- ate and flavor tea. It is also a favorite green- house plant. It is readily increased in spring by cuttings of well-ripened wood. O. Ameri- cana, a native species, common from North Carolina to Florida, is an evergreen shrub or small tree, producing axillary racemes or pani- cles of small, white, fragrant flowers, and a bitter, astringent fruit about the size of a pea. Olea'ceae. A natural order of trees and shrubs, natives chiefly of North America, Asia, Europe, and New Holland, with opposite simple or com- pound leaves, and hermaphrodite, or unisex- ual flowers. The plants of the order are bitter, tonic and astringent, and some yield fixed oil. Olive oil is expressed from the fruit of a cultivated variety of Olea Ewropwa, and the unripe fruit macerated in brine and flavored with aromatics is used as a condiment. Ash- wood {Fraxinus) is invaluable for its light- ness, flexibility and strength, several species of Ornus yield manna, and the bark of the com- mon Ash has been proposed as a substitute for quinine. There are upwards of twenty genera, including Olea, Fraxinus, and Syringa, and nearly one hundred and fifty species. Oleaginous. Fleshy in substance, but filled with oil ; also, like oil. Oleander. See Nerium Oleander. Olea'ndra. A small genus of tropical Ferns distinguished from Aspidium chiefly in habit, with wide-creeping scandent shoots, jointed 282 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS OLE stems, and entire lanceolate-elliptical fronds. 0. neriiformis and O. nodosa are both easily cultivated, free-growing species. Olea'ria. A genus of Compositm, very nearly allied to the Aster, and only distinguished from the Eurybia, which generally represents Aster in Australia, by the pappus being more distinctly double, and the outer ring of setee being shorter and often more chaff-like. It consists of about a dozen shrubs, natives of New Zealand, with small entire or toothed leaves cottony beneath. Some of them O. Haastii, for instance, make beautiful bushes in the open border. Propagated by cuttings of the half-ripened wood. Olea'ster. See Elmagnus. Oleraceous. Esculent, eatable. Olfe'rsia. Named after Olfers, a German botan- ist. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacem. A genus of hot-house Ferns common in the West Indies, South America, and occasion- ally in the East Indies. There are many species, but few of them are under cultivation. This genus is included under Acrostichum by some botanists. Olibanum, or Frankincense Tree. Boswellia thurifera. Olivaceous. Greenish-brown. Olive. See Olea. Olive. Barbadoes. Bontia Daphnoides. Olive-Bark Tree. Terminalia Catappa. Olive. Californian. Oreodaphne Californica. Olive. Wild. Elceagnus angustifolius, also Rhus Cotinus and Daphne Thymel&a. Olive "Wood. See Elmodendron ; also the yel- lowish fancy wood of the Olive tree. Ompha'lea. From omphalos, the navel, alluding to the umbilicated anthers. Nat. Ord. Euphor- biaceoe. A genus of tropical trees or tall shrubs remarkable for the curious structure of the male flowers. O. triandra the only species in cultivation, introduced from Jamaica in 1793, grows about twelve feet high and is more interesting than ornamental. A juice is extracted from it that turns black in drying and is used in making ink, or as glue ; the nuts after the poisonous embryo is extracted are edible. Omphalo'bium. From omphalos, the navel, and lobos, a pod. Nat. Ord. Conaracew. A small genus of tropical trees that furnish the beautiful Zebra Wood of the cabinet- makers. The species are mostly confined to Africa and India. Omphalo'des. Venus's Navelwort. From ompha- los, the navel, and eidos, like ; the fruit resem- bles the navel. Nat. Ord. BoraginacecB. An interesting genus of hardy annuals, and perennials. They are natives of southern Europe, Asia Minor, and the Caucasus. 0. linifolia, is a common border annual, known as Venus' Navelwort. The flowers are white, tinged with blue. O. verna, the Petite Con- soude of the French, is a charming, low-grow- ing perennial, with creeping shoots, heart- shaped leaves, and brilliant blue flowers, like the Forget-me-not ; sometimes from its habit, called Creeping Forget-me-not. It is propa- gated by division. ONC Onagra'ceae. A natural order of annual or perennial herbs, or shrubs, with simple leaves, and the parts of the flower usually tetramer- ous. They inhabit chiefly the temperate reg- ions of Europe, Asia, and America, and are found sparingly in Africa. The species contain mucous, and occasionally somewhat astrin- gent principles. Some yield edible fruits, as Fuchsia, others furnish edible roots, as Oenothera biennis, and both Trapa natans, and T. bicornis, remarkable for their horned fruit, supply edible seeds. There are about twenty- two known genera, and upwards of three hun- dred species. Fuchsia, Gaura, (Enothera, and Trapa, are illustrative genera. Onci'dium. From onkos, a tumor ; the plants belonging to this genus have warts, tumors, or other excrescences at the base of the labellum. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. This is perhaps the most extensive and varied genus in the order to which it belongs. Some of its species have extremely large pseudo-bulbs, others have the pseudo-bulbs very small ; another portion are entirely desti- tute of these, and have instead thick, leathery leaves, which again vary in size from two feet long and nearly half as much in breadth, to scarcely six inches in their greatest measure- ment ; a third group are distinguished by their rounded, rush-like leaves, about the thickness of a little finger, and from two to four feet in length. Besides this, quite as much disparity exists in the size and color of the flowers, and in the length of the flower-spike, which, in some species, will attain an extent of twenty feet, while in others it is not more than three or four inches ; yet every individual is beauti- ful and worthy a place wherever Orchids are grown. O. Papilio, the Butterfly Orchid, is certainly as much like a butterfly as it is possible to imagine a flower to be, and as it is borne on a long slender stem, which quivers with every breeze, it forms no bad representa- tion of a beautiful insect fluttering over the neighboring flowers. O. altissimum has a spike of flowers which is sometimes ten or twelve feet in length. O. altissimum, 0. ampliatum majus, O. cucullatum, O. Gardneri- anum, O. Papilio, 0. Kramerianum, O. splen- didum, O. macranthum, O. Marshallianum, O. Jonesianum, 0. varicosum, O. crispum, etc., are among the most beautiful of this large and interesting genus. They are all natives of South America, Mexico, and the West Indies, and as they will thrive in a lower temperature than the Aerides and other East Indian Orchids, they are very suitable for a small hot- house. It is better to cultivate all the larger growing kinds in pots or pans, and to place them in rather large ones, that they may not require frequent shifting, which, each time it is performed, inflicts a serious check upon the plants, in consequence of the unavoidable breaking of the roots. The soil for them should be turfy peat and sphagnum, thoroughly mixed, but not broken finely; this, with abundant drainage, a brisk, moist temperature in the growing season, shade from strong light, a careful preservation from insects and dirt, and a moderate rest in winter, will not fail to form healthy flowering specimens in a short time. The smaller species may be placed on cork, or in bas- kets. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 283 ONO Oncospe'rma. From onkos, a tumor, and sperma, a seed ; in reference to the form of the seeds. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. A genus of a few species of spiny plant-stove Palms, natives of tropical Asia. There are several species in cultivation, the best known of which, "O.filamentosum, the Nibungor Nibong of the Malays, is a very elegant Palm, found growing in masses in swampy places upon the coasts of Malacca, Sumatra, Borneo, and the islands of the Indian Archipelago. It attains a height of forty or fifty feet, and has leaves ten or twelve feet in length, with very numer- ous, narrow, drooping leaflets about two feet long. In Borneo, the delicate white heart of the unexpanded leaves, called the Cabbage, is highly esteemed as a vegetable. The unsplit trunks are used for house-building, for posts, etc., and the hardest part of the split trunks for rafters, flooring, etc." — A Smith, in " Treasury of Botany." When growing they require plenty of heat and a copious supply of water, and are propagated by seeds or by suckers. Syns. Areca and Nephrosperma. Onion. Allium cepa. The Onion has been known and cultivated as an article of food from the very earliest period. Its native country is unknown, but it is believed to have originated in the East. In the sacred writings we find it mentioned as one of the things for which the Israelites longed when in the wilder- ness, and complained to Moses because they were deprived of their Leeks, Onions, and Garlic, of which, said the murmurers : " We remember we did eat in Egypt freely." To show how much it was esteemed by the ancient Egyptians we need only mention that Herodotus says in his time (450 B.C.) there was an inscription on the Great Pyramid, stating that a sum amounting to 1,600 talents had been paid for Onions, Radishes, and Garlic, which had been consumed by the workmen during the progress of its erection. Even at the present day, the people of western Asia, as well as the inhabitants of cold coun- tries, are all large consumers of Onions, which, for culinary purposes, are more universally cultivated than almost any other vegetable. The garden varieties that have been intro- duced are very numerous, and their origin about as difficult to trace as the species. The justly celebrated Bermuda Onion of our markets is grown from seed annually imported from the south of Europe. Onions are also most extensively grown in the United States, one seed firm alone selling twenty tons of the seed annually. The varieties grown are the red, white, and yellow-skinned, among which are numerous varieties, the favorite kinds being known as Yellow Danvers, White Globe, Red Globe, Wethersfield Red, White Portugal, etc. Beginners growing the Onion for market had better consult works specially devoted to Onion culture, or works specially on Market Gardening, but for private use we will briefly detail the methods. For the earliest crop the "sets" or small bulbs, which are produced from seed thickly sown the previous year, should be planted as early in spring as the ground is dry enough to work, in beds four or five feet wide, and in rows nine inches apart with two or three inches between the sets or bulblets, pressing these down about an inch or so into the soil. Grown in this way, the Onions are usually used in the green state. For the ONO main crop the seed proper, is thinly sown in drills two or three inches deep, the rows at the same distance apart as for the sets. To insure quick and safe germination after sowing the seed, the drills should be trod along evenly with the foot, and then raked level. This plan of treading in seeds with the feet we invari- ably practice, particularly if the soil be dry. If not done, our hot, dry atmosphere pene- trates the loose soil, partially drying up the seed, which always impedes germination, and often destroys the crop completely. The omission of practicing the firming of the soil over seeds, either by the feet, roller, or in any other manner that will accomplish the purpose, is the loss of many millions annually, not only to the garden, but to the farm. The importance of this subject is our excuse for the digression. In ten to twelve days after sowing, the Onion seed will have started sufficiently to show the rows. The ground should then be lightly hoed, so as to destroy the weeds which germinate, many of them simultaneously with the Onion seed. In the seed rows, where the hoe cannot be used, the soil should be stirred with the fingers, other- wise weeds would quickly grow up and choke the crop. When about three or four inches high the Onions should be thinned out to two or three inches apart. Kept entirely clear from weeds, the crop is ripened off in June, July, or August, according to the latitude in which it is grown. It is a curious fact, how- ever, that Onions do not ripen their bulbs later than August; consequently, though they will grow well enough if sown late in the season, yet, if wanted to ripen so as to keep during winter, they must be sown in the first sowing of seeds in the spring. Two kinds of Onions are grown exclusively from bulbs, one of these is the Potato Onion, or "Multiplier," which increases by the bulb splitting up and dividing itself into six or eight smaller bulbs, which in turn form the sets to plant for the next crop. The other variety is what is called the Top Onion, which forms little bulbs on the top of the stem in the place of flowers. These bulbs are in clusters, and about the size of hazel nuts. The bulbs are broken apart, and planted in spring at the same distances as the "sets." Onion. Barbadoes. Ornithogalum scilloides. Crow. Allium vineale. Gipsey. Allium ursinum. Himalayan. Allium leptophyllum. Hog. Osmunda regalis. Pearl. Allium Ampeloprasum. Potato. Allium cepa, var. aggregalum. Sea. Urginea (Scilla) maritima. Tree, or Canada. Allium proliferum. Welsh. Allium fistulosum. Wild American. Allium cemuum. Onion Lily. See Ornithogalum caudatum. Onobrychis. Sainfoin. Esparsette. From onos, the ass, and brycho, to bray ; said to be the fav- orite food of the ass. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A somewhat extensive genus of hardy her- baceous perennials, or small shrubs, natives of Europe, western Asia, and north Africa. 0. sativa, Sainfoin, the only species of special interest, grows about two feet high, with branched, rather spreading stems, and large spikes of crimson flowers variegated with purple and white. It has a long tap root, ex- 284 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS ONO tending to a considerable depth, which, on hard soil, tends to break up the subsoil, and loosen it for subsequent cultivation. It has been grown in some parts of France, Ger- many, and England for years, and has proved a most valuable fodder plant, especially in light, dry, sandy or calcareous districts in the Southern and "Western States. Owing to its long descending roots it flourishes during long continued droughts, and succeeds in many situations where no other forage plant would exist. It is moreover very nutritious, and whether made into hay or fed green is greatly relished by all domestic cattle. It will crop from seven to ten years, according to the nature of the soil, and its yield is greatly increased by judicious top dressing. Its culture is almost identical with that of Alfalfa or Luzerne, which see. Ono'clea. From onos, a vessel, and kleio, to close; referring to the singularly rolled up fructification. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. A very distinct genus of Ferns, the principal and perhaps the only species of which is O. sensibilis, sometimes called the Sensitive Fern, but having no other claim to this name, beyond the fact of its speedily withering when cut. It is a very common Fern, found generally in moist or wet places, along streams, etc. It is an excellent subject for a shady place in the rock garden. Ono'nis. Rest-harrow. From onos, an ass, and onemi, to delight; the ass delights to browse on the herbage. Nat. Ord. Legu- ininoscB. An extensive genus of small herbaceous plants, common to Europe. A few species are tender annuals from the Cape of Good Hope. They have white, pink, or yellow flowers, some of them very pretty, but best suited to rough, waste places. They are easily grown from seed, and will adapt them- selves to any place given them. Onopo'rdon. Cotton Thistle. From onos, an ass, and perdo, to destroy; referring to the supposed effects on the ass. Nat. Ord. Com- posite. O. Acanthium, the supposed Scotch Thistle, is a native of Europe, but has become natural- ized in many parts of the United States. It grows from six to eight feet high, and is one of the most showy of the Thistle family. According to common tradition, the Danes or Norsemen, while invading Scotland, came upon the Scots, unperceived at midnight, and halting while their spies were thrown for- ward to discover the undefended points of their enemy's camp, one of them chancing to tread upon a Thistle of this species, uttered a loud cry of pain, which roused the Scots to their danger, who at once attacked and re- pelled the invaders, gaining a complete victory; and henceforth they adopted the Thistle as the national emblem. In 1540 James V. instituted an order of knighthood called the Order of the Thistle. See Scotch Thistle. Ono'seris. From onos, an ass, and seris, Endive ; a salad for asses. Nat. Ord. Composite. A genus of about a dozen shrubs or herbs, natives of the Andes and tropical South America. The leaves of 0. adpressa are over three inches long, and are pure white and OPH cottony beneath. Introduced in 1830, under the name of Centrocliniwm. Ono'sma. Golden Drop. From onos, an ass, and osme, smell ; said to be grateful to that animal. A genus of Boraginacece, consisting of nearly seventy species, only a few of which are in cultivation. They are found in northern Africa, southern Europe, and west and central Asia. O. stellatum, and its variety 0. s. tauricwm, with yellow flowers, are the most showy, and should have a well-drained sunny exposure in the rock garden, or herbaceous border. Onosmo'dium. So called from its similarity to Onosma. Nat. Ord. Boraginacece. A small genus of hardy herbacous peren- nials, only two of which, 0. Carolinianum and O. Virginianum both with yellowish-white flowers, and natives of the United States, are in cultivation. Ony'chium. From onyx, a claw ; shape of the lobes of the fronds. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. A small genus of very elegant Ferns found in Japan, Africa, Australia, and the East Indies. A few of the species are under cul- tivation, and among them O. Japonicum, a delicate, fennel-like Fern, fragile, fairy-like, yet one that succeeds well with the most ordinary green-house treatment. It requires shade, and is propagated from spores or by division. Introduced in 1864. Syns. O. Capense and 0. lucidum. Opaque. When the surface is dull, or not at all shining. Opera Girls. See Mantisia saltatoria. Opercula'ria. From operculum, lid ; referring to the shape of the calyx. Nat. Ord. Rubiace.cz. A genus of very pretty Australian green- house shrubs or herbs, sometimes twining. The species, of which only two are in cultiva- tion, succeed best in a compost of sandy loam and leaf mould, and are propagated by seeds sown in heat in spring, or by cuttings of the young shoots. Operculum. The lid of anything, as in the pitcher of Nepenthes ; more especially the lid of the spore-cases of Urn-mosses. Ophe'lia. From Opheleia, serviceable; plants useful in medicine. Nat. Ord. Gentianacece. This genus is composed of one species, a pretty little annual, with starry pink flowers, allied to the Gentian. Seeds should be sown early in the hot-bed or in the green-house, and planted out as soon as the border is ready for tender plants. It is a native of the East Indies, and was introduced in 1836. Syn. Swertia. Ophiocau'lon. From ophis, a serpent, and kaulon, a stem; in reference to its climbing habit. Nat. Ord. Passifloracece. A small genus of plant-stove, climbing, her- baceous plants, natives of tropical Africa, Natal, and Madagascar. 0. Cissampeloides, introduced from western Africa in 1871, is a green-house climber with orbicular or cordate, glaucous leaves two to three inches long, often mottled with white. It is closely allied to Modecca, and is often found in cultivation under the name of Passiflora marmorata. Ophioglo'ssum. Adder's Tongue. From ophios, a snake, and glossa, a tongue ; referring to the shape of the spike of fructification. OCIMTJM (BASH.). OENOTHERA MISSOTJRIENSIS. OBELISCAKTA. ODONTOOL.OSSUM ROSSII. OCHKA MTTLTIFLOKA. 284 OENOTHERA LAMARCKIANA. OENOTHERA DRUMMONDI. ORNITHOGALUM AUREUM. ORNITHOGALUM ARABICUM. ONOPORDON ACANTHTUM. ONOBRYCHIS (SAINFOIN). ORIGANUM (SWEET MARJORAM). OKRA (DWARF), PROLIFIC. *8S AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 285 OPH The typical genus of Ophioglossacece, distin- guished from all others of that order, by having its fructification borne in the form of spikes. The species are spread over the whole world, from the Torrid to the Arctic Zones, and being of simple structure are not readily discrimi- nated. Some botanists regard the greater part of them as mere forms of 0. vulgatum, the common Adder's Tongue. Ophiopo'gon. From ophis, a serpent, and pogon, a beard; a translation of the native Japanese name. Nat. Ord. Hcemodoracce. A small genus of hardy or half-hardy her- baceous perennials, natives of India, China and Japan. They have long, linear leaves and erect spikes or racemes of flowers, about a foot in length. O. Jaburan variegatus is a most beautiful and useful plant for the cool green-house or for hanging baskets, vases, etc. Its deep violet-blue flowers, freely pro- duced in dense spikes, followed by deep blue berries about the size of currants, and re- maining a long time in perfection, are an ex- cellent contrast to the drooping broad grass- like leaves striped with green and creamy- white. There is a variegated form of O. Japonicus intermedins, known as O. J. argenteo- marginatus which though producing white flowers is also an excellent plant for the pur- poses named. They are both introductions from Japan, are of easy culture, and are in- creased readily by division. Syn. Flueggia, sometimes spelled Fluggia. O'phrys. From ophrys, eyebrows; referring to the fringe of the inner sepals. Nat. Ord. Orehidacece. A small genus of terrestrial Orchids, chiefly natives of England. They are exceedingly difficult to manage, but produce their flowers, which are of rare beauty, freely in early sum- mer, in fields and dry pastures. O. opifera looks as though a bee were buried in the flower; another, O. aranifera, has the lip in the form of a spider ; and in a third, O. mus- cifera, the whole flower resembles a fly'. Opium. See Papaver somniferum. Oplisme'nus. From hoplismenos, awned; re- ferring to the awns. Nat. Ord. Qraminacece. A small genus of tender grasses allied to Panicum, broadly dispersed over the tropical and sub-tropical regions. 0. Burmarmi variegatus is a beautiful drooping grass, prettily variegated with white and pink. It is best known in cultivation as Panicum variegatum. Opo'panax. Ancient Greek writers mention a medicinal plant under this name, which is used by botanists to designate a genus of Umbelli- feraz, containing two or three species. O. Chironium, is a plant six or seven feet high, resembling the Parsnip, and is a native of southern Europe. It yields a milky juice, having similar properties to those possessed by Ammoniacum, but is now scarcely used. The plant is of no ornamental value, and is only to be found in botanic gardens. Syn. Malaibala Apoponax. Opora'nthus. From opora, autumn, and anthos, a flower. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacew. A hardy, free-flowering bulb from the south of Europe. The flowers bear a strong resem- blance to the Yellow Crocus, for which, in- deed, if it flowered at the same season, it OPU might easily be mistaken. It is very orna- mental, and should be planted in beds with the Colchicum, as they flower at the same season, and contrast finely in color. It grows freely in a light soil, but should have a slight protection in winter to perfect the bulbs. It generally comes into flower with our first frosts, the leaves remaining green during the winter. This bulb was formerly classed as Amaryllis lutea, and none but the keen eye of the botanist can see any difference. This genus is now included with Sternbergia, which see. Opposite. Placed on opposite sides of some other body or thing, and on the same plane. Thus when leaves are opposite, they are on opposite sides of the stem ; when petals are opposite they are on opposite sides of the flower, and so on. Oppositifolius. Opposite a leaf, that is to say, growing on the side of a stem opposite to that on which a leaf grows ; also applied to leaves opposite to each other. Opu'ntia. Prickly Pear. Indian Fig. A Latin name of which the derivation is not applicable to the species now placed under it. Nat. Ord. CactaceoR. There are upward of a hundred and fifty species of the Opuntia, or Prickly Pear, all of which are natives of this continent. They are found chiefly in Mexico, California, Peru, Brazil, the West Indies, and a few in the United States. The plants, when old, are hard and woody, but the new growth remains succu- lent or fleshy for some time. Some species grow erect and tree-like, while others are procumbent or creep on the ground, and nearly all have spines. The upright growers sometimes reach a height of ten feet or more, .and one kind even twenty feet. Some of them (0. Tuna, for example) have been in- troduced into southern Europe, Africa and other places where they are cultivated for the sake of obtaining Cochineal. The flowers (ex- cept in Nopalea) are generally a dull reddish orange. The fruit is pear-shaped, two or three inches long, and of a bright carmine color when ripe. The fruit is edible, and has a pleasant sub-acid flavor, being considered cooling and refreshing, and is much used in the West Indies and other places. The juice is sometimes used as a water color, and also for coloring candies. In Mexico the plant is used for hedges as well as for the Cochineal insect, and from the fruit is pre- pared a beverage called Colinche. Writers tell us that in Algeria the French make from the old wood a number of ornamental articles, such as flower trays, fancy baskets, etc., and even veneering. The Opuntia, it will be seen, is a plant of considerable commercial value. Botanists have taken three species from Opuntia, to which they have given the generic name Nopalea ; the reason of which may not be apparent to the common observer. In the new genus the flowers have erect petals, which are drawn together at the top instead of being expanded, as they are in Opuntia; the stamens are longer than the corolla, but shorter than the style. The stems are round, or nearly so, with jointed, fleshy, flat branches ; but unlike Opuntia, the tubercles upon the branches are not always armed with spines. The flowers, instead of being yellow or orange, 286 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OP PLANTS OPU like Opuntia are reddish or crimson. In view of the commercial value of the product, we shall next allude somewhat briefly to the Nopalea (Opuntia) as connected with the cul- tivation of the Cochineal insect, Coccus Cacti. There are two species grown chiefly for this purpose, the Nopalea coccinellifera and N. Tuna. The first grows about eight feet high, and its branches give it a tree-like appearance. The stem and older branches are nearly round and grayish in color, but the younger growth is flat and deep green in color. The joints are from six to twelve inches long, oblong in form, mostly without spines, but having, when young, a growth of fleshy leaves, which soon drop off, leaving a scar and a tuft of short wool and bristles. Though the name coccinellifera, or cochineal bearing, has been given to this particular species, it is not the only one upon which this insect feeds, for in Mexico N. Twna is even more largely grown for the same purpose. Nopaleries is the name given to plantations for rearing the Cochineal insect. The male only is winged, and some- what resembles the Aphis, and the two are not very distantly related to each other : both feed in the same way, drawing the juices of the plant through a proboscis. It is the female, however, which yields the highly- prized dye. A plantation will sometimes con- tain from fifty to sixty thousand plants. The plants are grown in rows, but are not allowed to grow to their natural height for convenience in handling. In the month of August the female insects are placed on the plants, and in about four months thereafter the first crop is fit to be gathered, and another prepared for, three being taken in the course of the year. When fully grown the insects are brushed off and dried in ovens, when they are ready for sale. The value of this industry is such that the Prickly Pear has been placed on the coat of arms of the Mexican Republic. Though Mex- ico is the native place of the Cochineal, it is now largely grown in New Grenada and the Canary Islands, and to a less extent in some parts of southern Europe and Africa. The annual produce amounts to thousands of tons, the usual price being about two thous- and dollars per ton, which gives us an idea of the value of the industry. There are many interesting facts connected with the Coccus family, as regards both their natural history and their commercial value which we must pass over, simply remarking that it is to a member of this family that we are indebted for some of the best shell and other lacs. It may be said of them, as it cannot be said of most insects, that they make some amends for the injury they do to plants. Of our native species of Prickly Pear, O. vulgaris is the com- mon Prickly Pear of New York and some of the Eastern States. It is very hardy and tena- cious of life, growing among the rocks where there is scarcely sufficient soil to cover the roots. Its flowers are bright yellow, very handsome, and produced freely. There are other American species which produce larger and even handsomer flowers than O. vulgaris. The other members of this order take pre- cedence in the green-house, on account of their rarity, and, in some instances, more showy flowers. See Nopalea. Opuntia'ceae. A natural order, now placed as a sub-division of Cactacem. ORC Orache, or Mountain Spinach. See Atriplex. Orange. See Citrus. Orange-flower Tree. Philadelphus coronarius. Orange Gourd. Cucurbita Pepo aurantia. Orange Grass. Hypericum Sarothra. Orange Osage. See Madura. Orange Root. Hydrastis Canadense. Orbicular. Nearly round and flat. Orchard. Fruits of all kinds are now so extensively used, that there are few country gardens large enough to give a sufficient supply of fruit, even if it were desirable to grow many fruit trees in a vegetable garden. It is often necessary therefore to establish an orchard from which to supply the ordinary demands for the larger fruits. As these trees will last a generation or longer, and as many of them are several years before they come into bearing, any error, therefore, made in the selection of kinds, is a serious one. Whenever practicable, the purchase of trees for the orchard should be made direct from the nurserymen whose reputation is beyond question. Many thousands of farmers, and others, in nearly every section of the country have been victims of irresponsible tree peddlers, who, either from ignorance or design, have palmed upon their unfortu- nate patrons, apples, pears, peaches, plums, and other fruit-trees, which, after years of anxious waiting for, have proved entirely worthless. The safest plan therefore, is to purchase direct from the nearest reliable nurseryman, keeping in view the point that it is best always to buy trees grown North of your latitude, and not to plant too many varieties, but only those that are found to do best in your locality. The soil and its preparation for the orchard are also vital matters. For most fruits a deep and rather sandy loam is best, but, as in all other crops, it is useless to plant trees un- less.the soil is free from water, and if draining is necessary it must be thoroughly done. (See draining.) A limestone gravelly soil is best for apples ; pears succeed best upon good clay loams ; plums require a rather moist soil for the best results, and peaches must have a warm light sandy loam with a somewhat heavier subsoil, but well drained, either naturally or artificially. The location of an orchard is quite important. Apples and peaches do best upon hilly or rolling ground, while pears and plums do well in low lands. A western exposure, and in some cases a northern slope, is preferable to any other, for all fruits. A southern slope is the worst of all, as the trees in such a case are forced by the sun's warmth into a too early growth, and often suffer from late spring frosts, which destroy the blossom, while the more back- ward trees upon western and northern slopes are uninjured. The advantage of a western slope is that it escapes the morning sun, which is sometimes injurious after a cold frosty night, while it enjoys the last of the evening sun and so gets a large share of warmth which remains during the night. The Preparation of the Soil and the man- ner of planting the trees are of the utmost im- portance, and should be thoroughly well done. A rich soil is not required. If the land is able to produce a good crop of corn, potatoes or AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 287 ORC clover, it is rich enough ; if made too rich the trees are apt to make too much wood, or a weak, rank, growth, which must be cut away by pruning, and thus really exhaust the tree, and put off its bearing period for some con- siderable time. The following details will suggest a proper method for the average con- ditions. The planter of course must study his particular case and make a judicious application of these suggestions. The land should be well plowed in the fall or late sum- mer, as deeply as possible ; deep plowing in this case is beneficial, when it might be other- wise for an ordinary crop. The next thing to be done is to prepare a sufficient quantity of good compost of rotted leaves, sod, scrapings of the barn-yard, lime, wood ashes and some rotted manure. These are well mixed and ■ put into a heap ready for use. The trees are then ordered to be delivered at a special time, and for safety, and the proper guidance of the nurseryman full and accurate directions should be given for shipping. The orders should be sent so as to give the nurseryman ample time to ship the trees. The next work is to stake out the ground, and dig the holes, two feet deep, and large enough to give the roots ample spread, say four feet wide. The top soil should be thrown on one side by itself. The compost is then hauled on to the ground and a liberal quantity of it thrown into the hole and spread, and partly mixed with the earth in it, being left slightly raised in the centre for the tree to rest upon. Every- thing is now in readiness for the trees. When these arrive, they should be unpacked and sorted at once, and each variety laid in the wagon by itself. Each variety should be planted separately in a row or block. The wagon is then taken to a field. The planter who has a boy to assist him, takes a tree, sets it firmly upon the earth in the hole so that it is a little deeper than it has been in the nursery, and while the assistant holds it, he spreads the roots and carefully works the soil among them that so they are in as natural a position as possible. This is very important and should be well done. After this the rest of the top soil is thrown in and well trodden with the feet. Then the subsoil is put in with a little of the compost mixed with it and thoroughly well firmed with the feet, but left in a slight mound so as to turn water from the stem. After all the trees have been thus planted, each one should be properly pruned, the young wood being cut back one-third and the head properly shaped. Fall planting, which is generally preferable, should be done from the 15t,h October to the 15th November, and spring planting as soon as the ground is free from frost and dry enough to work. The after treatment of a young orchard should be as follows : For the first three years such crops as potatoes, beans or turnips, that are cultivated and manured may be grown, but no others, both to manure the ground, destroy weeds, and for the sake of the culti- vation, the trees being hoed as the rest of the crop. Afterwards the ground may be sown to clover, but not to grass, as a sod is injuri- ous to a young orchard, although it may be permitted in an established one. Orchard Baler. This name is given to an in- vention that promises to be of great value to ORC the fruit-growing interest of the Unites States. It is a machine by which the branches of fruit or other trees are tied in a pyramidal form, and in this shape thatched with straw or hay, as a protection in winter against the severe frosts which cause so much injury to the buds of Peaches and other fruit trees. Thus thatched and excluded from the sun, the flower buds of fruit trees will be held back from opening for nearly a week, which will often be sufficient to save them from late spring frosts. It is claimed that Peach Trees so protected never fail to produce annually a crop of fruit. A pair of these machines cost from $25 to $50 ; and it is claimed that two men can bale and thatch fifty trees per day. The time for the operation is after the leaves have fallen in autumn, or any time except when the limbs are frozen. Of course, it is equally applicable to ornamental trees, and for such trees as the Magnolia grandiflora, which is rarely seen in good condition north of Richmond, it would be particularly valu- able. Orchard Grass. See Dactylis. Orche'lla Weed. The common name of several species of Roccella, a genus of lichens, cele- brated for their valuable properties as dye- weeds. Orchida'ceae. A very large order of plants, and one of the most natural families of the vege- table kingdom. They are perennial herbaceous plants or shrubs, assuming a terrestrial habit in temperate countries, and in warmer lati- tudes, growing on trees (Epiphytes), or fixing themselves to stones. Orchids are found in almost all parts of the world, and are noted for the peculiar shapes and diversity of their flowers. According to the authors of the " Genera Plantarum," the order contains over 330 genera and 5,000 species. Orchid Culture. The following article on Orchid culture was written in 1888 for " Gardening for Pleasure," by Mr. William Grey of Kenwood, Al- bany. As he is known to be one of the most suc- cessful growers of Orchids in this or indeed any other country, his experience may prove valu- able to the more skillful as well as to the tyro in their culture. The taste for cultivating Orchids is rap- idly increasing. Every season, dozens of amateurs already possessing green-houses begin the culture of Orchids. To be successful, careful attention and some knowl- edge of the subject by actual practice are nec- essary ; but as most of our gardeners are such as have had European training, nearly all that are proficient in their business have a knowl- edge of Orchid culture. It is about the only part of floriculture that I have had no actual practice in, so that lam glad to avail myself of the experience of Mr. Grey, who kindly has written the following brief instructions : The best twelve well-known kinds are, Cattleya Trianim, Dendrobium nobile, Dendro- bium Wardianum, Lcelia anceps, Ccelogyne cristata, Lycaste Skinneri, Odontoglossum Alexandra, Odontoglossum Pescatorei, Cypripe- dium insigne, Phaius Wallichii, Calanthe Veitchii, Calanthe vestita. The next twelve are Cattelya Mossice, Ccelogyne ocellata, Cypri- pedium Spicerianum, Cypripedium villosum, Dendrobium crassinode, Phaius grandifolius, Phalamopsis amabilis, Phakenopsis Schilleriaua, 288 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS ORC Phalcenopsis Stuartiana, Vanda ccerulea, Vanda Sanderiana, Zygopetalum Mackayi. (For de- scription of the various species, see Orchid Catalogues.) " Of these the best suited for growing in pots are, Cattleyas, Dendrobiums, and Odontoglos- sums, all of which do well in coarse chopped peat, the pots nearly filled with crocks ; Coelo- gyne and Lycaste, coarse, sandy peat, with chopped, half-decayed leaves; Cypripediums, Phaius, and Zygopetalums in peat and loam, and a little rotten manure ; Phalcenopsis, Van- das, and Lcelias do well in baskets, pots, or small pans, in chopped sphagnum ; the drain- age must be perfect. Calanthes, chopped sods of sandy loam, with not over-fine leaf mould. The plants must be made steady with stakes and copper wire. " The kinds suited to grow on bark or cork, or other such material, are Cattleyas, Lcelias, Phalcenopsis, Vandas, and Dendrobiums. These all do well on blocks of cork, rafts, cylinders, etc., with sphagnum or other moss ; but take more care as they dry so quickly. A plant on a block will take water twice a day ; the same in a basket only once in two days. Blocks can be hung overhead, and dipped twice a day in hot, dry weather "The temperature should be for such varie- ties as Phalcenopsis, Vandas, Dendrobiums, and Cypripediums, in winter, sixty to sixty-five degrees at night, to seventy-five degrees by day, with air; in summer, seventy degrees at night, ninety or more degrees by day, with plenty of air and ventilation at night. Cattleya, Zicelia, Phaius, Calanthe, Cozlogyne, and Zygo- petalum, in winter, fifty-five or sixty degrees at night, seventy degrees with sun by day ; in summer, sixty-five degrees at night, eighty- five degrees by day, with plenty of air. Odonto- glossums, in winter, fifty-five degrees at night, sixty-five degrees by day ; in summer, as cool as they can be kept. All want abun- dance of atmospheric moisture night and day. "Some kinds, such as Phalcenopsis and Van- das, grow at all seasons; Cypripediums, Cat- tleyas, and Lcelias in spring; Calanthe, Cozlogyne, Phaius, and Zygopetalums in sum- mer. When any plant grows in winter (except Odontoglossums) it should be placed in a warm house. Odontoglossums do best at a temperature of fifty-five to seventy degrees ; never hotter, if possible. " Cattleya Trianice, Lceliaanceps, and Cypripe- dium insigne bloom during the resting period, which is from December to January. Pha- lcenopsis and Vandas grow all the year ; and during the short dark days of fall and winter less food is given by withholding water. Cal- anthe, Cozlogyne, and Phaius bloom with the maturity of the growth, and lay dormant until spring. 1 ■ The best shading for an Orchid house, when ground glass is not used, is canvas raised eighteen inches above the roof ; or, if that is not convenient, thin paint made of turpentine and whitening, or white lead. Lay it on in the middle of March and brush it off in the middle of October. Ground glass is too dark from October to March for plants, and nothing does well with me under it in winter. I use first quality clear French glass. When the glass is shaded with canvas it should be done from March to October from nine o'clock in ORC the morning to four o'clock in the afternoon, except on cloudy days. "Orchids when grown by a florist to pay would have to be grown in quantity, each species with a house to itself; but when grown by amateurs, of course nearly all species are usually grown in one house. The most of the twenty-four species named could be had in flower from November to April. All plants with a tendency to early maturity should be placed at the warm end of the house ; or in the fall, partition off the space necessary at the warmer end for the most forward. The plants would have to be imported from the woods at first cost, when grown to sell (established planto at present prices would ba too expensive), and the flowers sold cheap to become popular. Orchid-grow- ing to-day, is where Rose-growing was thirty- five years ago. To sum up : In the cultivation of Orchids all plants, when newly potted or mounted, should be made firm, or wired, otherwise, if the plants move by syringing, or other cause, the rootlets will be destroyed. The atmosphere of an Orchid house should always be moist, winter and summer, in winter allowing the pottery, cork, or other material to become more dry. Light and air are essential to vigorous growth, delug- ing with water when in active growth, but never closing top ventilation ; never having a stagnant atmosphere ; gradually withholding water as the growth approaches maturity, and then only enough to keep them from shrivel- ing. As to the time for repotting, the culti- vator is guided by the commencement of growth. Plants should always be under- potted as long as the plant is not top-heavy, for such as Cattleyas, Lcelias, Dendrobiums, etc. a top-dressing is often all that is needful. Calanthe, Phaius, etc., are repotted annually. '•' Insects, such as thrips and aphis, are kept under by filling the evaporated pans, or other vessels, with chopped tobacco stems covered with water. Slugs are kept down by placing lettuce leaves, sliced potatoes or carrots on the pots, which examine daily and destroy. Roaches and water bugs may be killed by mixing roach poison with molasses, and placing it on oyster shells at convenient points in the green-house. These same reme- dies will be found effective against insects attacking any kind of green-house plant." Orchid Fertilization. So much interest has of late years been exhibited in this subject, that we would refer the reader for informa- tion on this as well as other important ques- tions in Natural Science to Charles Darwin's work "On the various Contrivances by which British and Foreign Orchids are Fertilized by Insects." This must always be a book of reference to those who wish to understand the very curious structures that adapt many Orchids, in a very peculiar degree to benefit by the visits of insects, while a smaller number are adapted for self-fertilization alone. Orchid Flowers in Motion. Great interest has lately been exhibited in the motion of the beautifully fringed labellum of Bulbophyllum barbigerum, the numerous long hairs on which keep continually in motion. A correspondent of "Garden and Forest" in mentioning it also says : ' ' The singular little Masdevallia muscosa is, AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 289 ORC perhaps, still more remarkable. It appears from an account which has recently been published, that the lip of this plant is sensitive and has a movement as definite as that of the remarkable Dionozamuscipula, or "Venus' Fly- trap." The habit of the plant is almost that of the well-known M. Harryana, but smaller, the flowers standing some six inches high ; light yellow in color, the tube of the sepals short, the lip long and protruding, and much nar- rowed behind. When the flowers open, the lip hangs pendulous underneath, but when an insect alights on the lip, and touches a small cushion-like disc, situated some distance from the apex, the lip suddenly shuts up tight against the column moving through an angle of 80° or 90° in two seconds. The Masdevallia is not as bloodthirsty as the Dionoea, for the insect is not tightly boxed in, nor does the plant forthwith proceed to devour and digest its victim. There is a way of escape between the two petals and the face of the column, but the insect can scarcely fail to carry away the pollen-masses in making its exit, and there can be little doubt that on visiting a second flower it comes in contact with the stigma, and thus fertilization is effected. "This is not all. The plant regularly goes to sleep at night— that is to say, it closes up tight— but positively refuses to sleep in the daytime ; for two hours in a dark cellar are reported to have made no impression on it. The slightest touch with a hair on the sensi- tive cushion causes the lip to close suddenly, but after a short time it gradually opens again. Another remarkable point about the plant is that the peduncles are completely covered with greenish-yellow moss-like bristles, which have been well compared to those of the Moss Rose. There is no climbing up some other way. Ants have been observed to make the attempt, but eventually had to give it up in disgust. It is supposed that this is the particular use of these bristles to keep away robber-insects. Those who would pay their respects must come in a legitimate way, and alight on the flower itself. Quite a little chapter of romance ; but one would suspect that the insect goes away with rather mixed feelings after its first visit." Orchis. From orchis, testiculate ; referring to the two oblong, bulb-like roots of many of the species. Nat. Ord. Orchidacem. A dwarf genus of terrestrial Orchids, mostly unpretending, yet beautiful little plants. They are common in England and throughout most of Europe, O. mascula and O. maculata, being among the most beautiful and interesting plants of the British woods. With the exception of a few species, they are perfectly hardy, and can be grown in the out- side border, or in pots, forced like the Hya- cinth. They do not like being moved from their native homes, but are easily produced from seed, which, if sown in a frame of light, turfy loam, will make flowering plants in three years. O. spectabilis (Showy Orchis), is com- mon in rich woods throughout the Northern, Eastern and Western States. This species does well under cultivation. Propagated by division. Orchis. Bee. Ophrys apifera. Cuckoo. Orchis mascula. ORI Fly. Ophrys muscifera. Marsh. Orchis latifolia. Military. Orchis militaris. White Fringed. Habenaria blephariglottis. Yellow Fringed. Habenaria ciliaris. Ordeal Bean of Old Calabar. See Physos- tigma. Ordeal Tree. See Tanghinia. Oreoco'me Candollei. A very striking and effective decorative plant belonging to the Nat. Ord. Umbelliferw. It makes a fine pyramid, five feet high, fur- nished with large leaves that are as finely divided as those of a Todea, spread out hori- zontally, and recurve gracefully. They are of fresh green color, and the flowers which rise well above the foliage, are pure white. It is quite hardy and is an excel- lent plant for margins of shrubberies or for planting singly on a lawn. Oreoda'phne. From oreos, a mountain, and Daphne, Mountain Daphne. Nat. Ord. Lau- raceaz. A genus of hardy evergreen trees, confined mostly to the Pacific Coast. O. Californica (syn. Umbellularia) is a common tree in the moun- tainous parts of California, where it goes by a variety of names, such as Mountain Laurel, Spice-bush, Balm of Heaven, Sassafras Laurel, Cajeput-tree, California Laurel, etc. In some parts it attains a height of fifty to one hun- dred feet, but in the southern districts it is seldom more than fifteen or twenty feet high. When bruised it emits a strong spicy odor which is apt to excite sneezing ; the natives use the leaves as a condiment. This species was introduced by Mr. Douglas in 1862. Syn. Ocotea. Oreodo'xa. From oreos, a mountain, and doxa, glory ; alluding to the lofty stature of some of the species. Nat. Ord. Palmaceee. A small genus of very tall-growing and handsome Palms, inhabiting the West Indies and tropical America. Some of the species are among the most graceful of palms. O. regia, the Royal Palm, is a favorite cultivated species, and is largely used in the decoration of rooms. 0. oleracea, the West Indian Cab- bage Palm, sometimes attains a height of one hundred and seventy feet, with a very small trunk, perfectly straight and cylindrical. The heart of the young leaves is cooked like Cabbage, and the pith affords Sago. Oil in considerable quantities is obtained from the fruit. Young plants are obtained from seed. Oreo'panax. From oreos, a mountain, and Panax, alluding to the relationship of the plants to Panax, and their natural habitats. Nat. Ord. Araliacem. A genus of comparatively late introduction comprising certain tropical American trees and shrubs, closely allied to Hedera. Sixty- four species have been described, but only a few are in cultivation. They form very ornamental green-house plants, and are propa- gated by cuttings of the young shoots. Organ. A general name for any defined sub- ordinate part of the vegetable structure, ex- ternal or internal ; as cell, fibre, leaf, root, etc. Oricola. See Primula. Ori'ganum. Marjoram. From oros, a moun- tain, and ganos, joy ; referring to the natural places of growth. Nat. Ord. Labiatw. 290 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS ORM A genus of hardy and half-hardy herbaceous plants and shrubs, natives of Europe and Northern India. O. vulgare, the wild Mar- joram, common throughout Europe, and natur- alized in this country, furnishes the Oil of Origanum, which is an acrid stimulant. O. Onites and 0. Majorana are included in the pot or seasoning herbs, under the name of Marjoram. They are natives of Sicily and Portugal, respectively. There are a few orna- mental species sometimes grown as house plants, the more common of which is O. sipyleum, a native of the Levant, and popularly known as Hop Plant. It is of easy culture, and is propagated by cuttings. Ormoca'rpum. From ormos, a chain, and kar- pos, a fruit; referring to the narrow chain- like pods. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A genus consisting of three or four shrubs, natives of tropical Africa and the Indian Archipelago, nearly allied to JEschynomene. O. Coronilloides has pale yellow flowers, borne in many-flowered axillary peduncles in May. Young specimens only are adapted to pot cul- ture, and are produced from cuttings. Ormo'sia. Bead Tree. From ormos, a neck- lace ; in allusion to this use of the seeds. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A small genus of ornamental tropical trees, natives of Guiana and the West Indies. They are all too large for introduction into the green-house. O. dasycarpa is the West Indian Bead Tree, or Necklace Tree, the seeds of which, like those of 0. coccinea, a native of Guiana and Brazil, are nearly round, beauti- fully polished, and of a bright scarlet color, with a black spot at one end, resembling beads, for which they are substituted, being made into bracelets, necklaces, or mounted in silver for studs or buttons. The seeds are picked up on the seacoast in various places, at very great distances from where they grow, having been carried by strong oceanic cur- rents. They are usually mixed in with small shells, and sold as " Sea Beans," the common error being that they are the fruit of some sea plant. Ornamental Grasses. See Grasses. Ornamental Leaved Plants. These are such as are grown for the beauty of their foliage rather than for their flowers; such as the various Crotons, Dracaenas, Coleus, Dieffen- bachias, etc., with colored or variegated leaves ; the numberless Palms, Ferns, Agaves, Aralias, Ricinus, etc., with large showy or finely divided leaves, or possessing other remarkable characteristics in their foliage are also placed in this class. Ornamental Planting. The beauty of many of our country homes is sadly marred by the in- judicious planting of ornamental trees and shrubs. There is no branch of the land- scape gardener's art that demands more sound judgment, correct ideas, or refined taste, for it is not enough merely to be able to admire and appreciate a well defined and harmoniously col- ored landscape, and to judge of its merits or de- fects,buthe must also be able to select the mate- rials, and so arrange or dispose of them as to produce an effect at once the most powerful, agreeable, and perfect, that they are capable of doing. To attain this end the planter l-equires an amount of skill and knowledge only attaina- ORN ble by perseverance, study, and practice. These remarks apply principally to large and extensive country seats, but also bear weight with regard to less pretentious residences. In former years the rage has been altogether for mixed planting, without regard to the future size of the trees or shrubs planted, or to the effect of the shades of color, either in the summer or fall ; but now a more tasteful and natural idea prevails, and planting in groups with reference to the general effect, the ulti- mate size of the trees, and their coloring in summer and fall, is more generally carried out. Trees having a resemblance to one another in the size and form of their leaves may be associated in groups, but it is more desirable that they possess some other marked characteristic in common, such as color of foliage, bark, or flower, habit of growth, or form, etc. Thus, when depth of color in leaf- age is desired, fit associates are found in the Purple Beech, Elm, Oak, Hazel, or Barberry ; when light colors are wanted they are at com- mand in the Golden Birch, Alder, Elder, or Willow, as also among the naturally silvery- foliaged trees, as the Silver Poplar, Linden, Maple, Huntingdon and other Willows, and Sea Buck Thorn, while among strictly varie- gated trees and shrubs, there exists a wide field to select from. The autumnal colors and tints of falling foliage deserve marked atten- tion. The rich scarlet and purple of the Oaks, Liquidamber, Nyssa, or Scarlet Maple ; the golden-yellow of the Norway and other Maples, Tulip Trees, etc. ; the Chestnut, with its yel- low and brown ; gorgeous festoons of the Vir- ginia Creeper and Yellow Celastrus, contrast- ing beautifully with the deep green of the Spruces, Hemlocks, or other evergreens. Color in bark is most appreciable when branches are denuded of their foliage, and small groups having distinct colors tend to relieve the dull monotony of the winter and early spring months. White Birch, Linden, Golden Ash, Purple, and Golden Willow, Vir- gilia lutea, the Red Dogwood, etc., all work in well; while Deutzias, Spiraeas, Weigelas, Chinese Magnolias, Tartarian Honeysuckle, the Dwarf Buck-eyes (Pa via), Hawthorns. Japanese Judas Tree, Hydrangea paniculata grandiflora, Rhododendrons, Azaleas, and a host of other equally desirable shrubs, either singly or in groups, may fill up the foreground and give lightness and beauty to the carriage drive and lawn during the whole season. Irregularity of outline to the lawn gives an idea of size, and the margins and points may be well filled up here and there by groups of hardy herbaceous and other plants, Arundo Donax versicolor, A. conspicua, Eulalias, Pam- pas Grass, etc., in prominent positions in groups, or as single specimens on the lawn. Ornithi'dium. From ornis, a bird, and eidos, like ; the upper lip of the stigma is beak-like. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A small genus of curious little Orchids, but not of sufficient beauty or interest to warrant their introduction into the Orchid house. They are regarded as weeds among air plants. Ornithoce'phalus. From ornis, ornithos, a bird, and kephale, a head ; in reference to the form of the column and anther. Nat. Ord. Orchid- acece. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 291 ORN A genus of curious little epiphytal Orchids, natives of tropical America. 0. grandiflorus, a very pretty and desirable species with yellow flowers, is, perhaps, the only species in culti- vation. Ornithochi'lus. From ornis, ornithos, a bird, and cheilos, a lip ; referring to the shape of the labellum. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A small genus of stove-house Orchids, natives of Burmah and the Himalayas. N. fuscus has brownish-yellow flowers striped with purple, and very fragrant. It is often found in cultivation as Aerides diforme. Ornitho'galum. Star of Bethlehem. From ornis, a bird, and gala, milk. Nat. Ord. Liliacea. A rather large genus of bulbous plants, the species of which are natives of southern Europe, western Asia, and the Cape of Good Hope. Several of the species are hardy, and grow so freely as to become a nuisance ; this is particularly so with O. umbellatum, the pretty little Star of Bethlehem, that has escaped in many places from the gardens into the meadows, and taken almost complete pos- session, and become very troublesome. 0. caudatum, a tender species from the Cape of Good Hope, has very large, watery-looking bulbs; the leaves are broad and very long, and they wither and shrivel up at the tip, so as to have a round, tail-like appearance ; whence their common name, Long-tailed Ornithoga- lum. This species is sometimes called Onion Lily, and is a favorite with the Chinese, who grow it in dishes filled with water and gravel. Its tenacity of life is most remarkable, as it will grow anywhere and under almost any cir- cumstances, in water or hung up against a wall in a dry room, in rich earth or poor, in- doors or out, and, with slight protection, will endure our winters. Its flower scape is from two to four feet in length, and it keeps in bloom for several months. There is but little beauty in the flowers of most of the species. O. Arabicum has large white flowers with a black centre, and has a distinct aromatic odor. O. thyrsoides has yellow flowers in dense racemes, twelve to thirty flowered, borne on an erect scape twelve to eighteen inches long. There are several varieties of this species, 0. t. album, pure white with dark centre ; 0. t. aureum, golden-colored, and O. t. flavissimum, much brighter yellow than the type, are all distinct and desirable green-house plants, and are deserving of a place in every collection. All the species are increased by offsets. Ornithoglo'ssum. From ornis, ornithos, a bird, and glossa, a tongue ; referring to resemblance existing in the petals. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. A genus of bulbous plants, with simple or slightly-branched, leafy stems, with green and purple or white flowers, natives of south Africa. They thrive well in sandy loam, and require the same general treatment as Tigrida. Syn. Lichtensteinia. Orni'thopus. Bird's foot. From ornis, orni- thos, a bird, and pons, a foot ; referring to the claw-like legumes or seed pods. A genus of LeguminosoB of which one species, O. perpusillus, a small prostrate herb, is not un- common in dry, gravelly soils in Great Britain. 0. sativus, the Serradilla, by some considered merely a variety of O. perpusillus, a native of Portugal, is a valuable agricultural plant, in- ORT troduced to cultivation in 1818, and particu- larly worthy of attention from the fact of its producing an abundant crop of excellent fod- der, where nothing else will grow to perfec- tion. O'rnus. Flowering Ash. From oreinos, ancient name of the Ash ; applied on account of the resemblance and affinity. Nat. Ord. Oleacece. Hardy, white-flowered, deciduous trees. The genus includes about a dozen species, all interesting on account of their clustered pan- icles of pure white flowers, borne at the ex- tremities of the branches. In Sicily several of the species are extensively grown under the name of Manna Ash, the trees yielding the saccharine substance commercially known as Manna, the properties of which are pur- gative instead of nourishing ; consequently it could not have been the Manna that sustained the Hebrews in the wilderness, although it is known by that name at the present day. This genus is included under Fraxinus by some authors. Oroba'nche. A genus of singular-looking par- asitic plants, typical of the Orobanchacem, and represented by a variety of species which grow severally on the roots of Clover, Ivy, Furze, Beans, Tobacco, Hemp, etc. Some of them are agricultural pests, and do a great deal of damage. O'robus. From oro, to excite, and bous, an ox ; the Orobus of Theophrastus was the name of a plant used for fattening cattle. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. An extensive genus of hardy perennials, dis- tinguished from Lathyrus chiefly by not being of a climbing habit of growth. The majority of the species are very handsome when in flower, which is generally in spring. There is a similarity between many of them ; the following are the most distinct : 0. aurantius, orange-yellow; 0. lathyroides, bright blue; 0. vernus, purple and blue, with red veins ; and 0. taurica, orange. 0. pubescens, 0. can- escens, O. varius, and 0. Fischeri, are also good showy species, but 0. vernus and its varieties are the handsomest of the species. All are of easy culture, and are increased by seeds or division of the root. Oro'ntium. Golden Club. Derivation of name obscure. Nat. Ord. Aroidece. This genus consists of two species of aquatic plants. 0. aquaticum is common in ponds from Maine to Florida, near the coast. 0. Japonicum, a native of Japan and the East Indies, has leaves like Lily of the Valley, green on the upper side, and covered with very minute hairs, so that they look like fine velvet. These leaves are readily eaten by cattle and swine in spring. The seeds are boiled and eaten like peas by the natives. This species makes a beautiful plant for the aquarium. Orpine. A common name for Sedum Telephium. Orris Root. The root of Iris Florentina. Orthosi'phon. From orthos, straight, and siphon, a curved tube ; alluding to the tube of the flower. Nat. Ord. Labiatm. A genus of perennial herbs or shrubs, natives of the East Indies, the Malayan Archi- pelago, Africa and Australia. O. stamineus has pretty pale lilac-blue flowers, nearly one inch long, arranged in whorls, and these 292 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS OBT again in racemes at the ends of the branches, the stamens projecting a long way. It was introduced from tropical Asia in 1869, and is increased by cuttings of the half-ripened shoots. Orthrosa'nthes. From orthros, morning, and . anthos, a flower ; the flowers expand early in the day. Nat. Ord. Iridacece. A genus of green-house herbaceous peren- nial plants, natives of extra-tropical South America and western Australia. M. multi- jlorus is a pretty little plant with beautiful sky-blue colored flowers, of easy culture in a compost of turfy peat and leaf-mould. It is propagated by division of the tufted root- stocks, or by seeds. Syn. Sisyrinchium cyan- eum. Orva'la. Said to be from Orvale, the French name for Clary. Nat. Ord. Labiatce. O. Lamoides, the only described species, is a hardy herbaceous plant, producing its pretty purplish red and white flowers in April. It is a native of the south of Europe, and is easily increased by division or by seeds. Bentham and Hooker now include this genus under Lamium. Orychopra'gmus Sonchifolius. A showy plant belonging to the Nat. Ord. Cruciferce. It is a very attractive plant, as its flowers are of a bright violet-blue color, and under good cultivation it attains a height of two feet, the loose terminal racemes of flowers being about half that height. It succeeds well in sheltered localities treated as a half-hardy annual. Syn. Moricandia. Ory'za. Bice. Derived from the Arabic name, cruz. Nat. Ord. GraminacecB. A small genus of grasses, only one of which, O. sativa, the common Bice of commerce is of any great importance ; and this is one of the most useful and extensively cultivated of all grains, supplying as it does the principal food of nearly one-third of the human race. Like that of all other grains, its native place is unknown, but it is generally supposed to be of Asiatic origin, though recent travellers in South America mention finding the rice-plant apparently in a wild state on the banks of some rivers there. Wherever it may have originated, it is now cultivated in all parts of the globe where the conditions of heat and moisture are favorable for its development. It is adapted to tropical and sub-tropical climates, rather to the latter than the former, and requires much moisture, rather, however, in the soil than in the air. Bice is an annual, varying from one foot to six feet in height. There are as many other distinguishing char- acteristics of the varieties under cultivation, as there are in the varieties of wheat, barley, or corn. The seed or grain of rice grows on little separate stalks springing from the main stalk ; and the whole appearance of the plant, when the grain is ripe, may be said to be in- termediate between that of barley and of oats. It flourishes best in low marshy grounds which can be overflowed, and tide- water swamps are particularly favorable for the crop. There is another species, Oryza mutica, which grows upon dry lands and the sides of mountains, largely cultivated in Ceylon and Java, and to some extent in southern Eu- rope. There is a variety of this species known OST as " Cochin China," which is considerably grown in dry soils in North Carolina, Virginia, and to some extent in Maryland. It is not equal in quality to that grown in marshy soils, neither is it as productive, as its yield hardly exceeds fifteen to twenty bushels per acre, while the rice grown in wet ground, and flooded, produces thirty to sixty and under the most favorable circumstances nearly one hundred bushels to the acre, each bushel weighing from forty-five to forty-eight pounds of clean rice. Osage Orange. See Madura aurantiaca. Osbe'ckia. Named after Peter Osbeck, a Swedish naturalist. Nat. Ord. Melastomacece. A genus of green-house evergreen and deciduous shrubs and herbs, natives of tropi- cal Asia, Africa, and the adjoining Islands. The rose, purple, or violet flowers are borne in terminal racemes. O. Nepalerisis (syn. Melastoma Nepalemis) has large, handsome, purplish, rose-colored flowers, and is well worthy of a place in any collection. Several other species are in cultivation ; they are all easily propagated by cuttings of the half- ripened shoots. Osier. Any of the Willows grown for their long flexible shoots, which are largely used in basket-making, are called Osiers. The one most extensively grown, and considered the best for this purpose, and to which the name is generally applied, is Salix viminalis, or Basket Osier. Osma'nthus. From osme, perfume, and anthos, a flower, in allusion to the fragrance of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Oleacece. A small genus of half-hardy glabrous shrubs or trees, natives of eastern Asia, North America, and the Pacific Islands. O. fragrans (syn. Olea fragrans), a native of Japan, China, etc., is a handsome shrub with serrated leathery leaves, and yellowish or almost white, exceedingly fragrant flowers. O. aquifolium (syn. O. illicifolium) is a very handsome ever- green shrub, somewhat resembling a Holly, with leathery, smooth, shining leaves, varying considerably in their size and toothing. There are several white and yellow variegated varieties in cultivation, all well deserving a place in the cool green-house. They may be propagated by cuttings, but are more rapidly increased by grafting on the Privet. Osmorhi'za. Sweet Cicely. From osme, scent, and rhiza, a root ; roots sweet scented. Nat. Ord. UmbeUiferoB. A small genus of uninteresting herbaceous perennials. They are common in rich, moist woods, and are popularly known as Sweet Cicely. Osmu'nda. Flowering Fern. From Osmunda, one of the names of Thor, a Celtic deity. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacem. A genus of ornamental Ferns, found widely distributed throughout the temperate regions of both hemispheres. A well-known species is 0. regalis, or Royal Fern. There are several species common in swamps and wet places throughout the United States. Most of them bear transplanting well, and make beautiful plants for a shady border. Osteospe'rmum. From osteon, a bone, and sperma, seed ; referring to the hardness of the seed. Nat. Ord. Composites. 06MTJNDA REGAL1S. OPCNTIA. OXAIIS VALD1VIANA. «—. OXALI8 TETKAPHTLLA. OXALI6 ROSEA. CXTUHA CHHYSANTHEMOIDES. ^ 292 OURIKIA COCCINEA. P.EONIAS (HERBACEOUS). PANCRATIUM CALATHINUM. PALAVA FLEXUOSA. TMOmAS (MOUTAN OR TREE). 293 AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 293 OST A genus of green-house shrubs, natives of South Africa. They are rather ornamental plants with yellow flowers, some of which are in cultivation in European collections. Ostrich Fern. See Struthiopteris. Ostro'wskia. Named in honor of the Russian botanist, Ostrowski. Nat. Ord. Campanulacece. 0. magnified, the representative species, is a beautiful hardy herbaceous plant, introduced from the mountains of eastern Bokhara. It grows about four feet high, bearing large mauve-colored flowers, four to six inches across. It forms a deep-reaching tuberous root about two feet long, after the fashion of Platycodon grandiflora. It flowered for the first time in Europe in 1887. O'strya. Hop Hornbeam, Iron Wood. From ostroyos, a scale ; scaly catkins. Nat. Ord. Corylaceoz. O. Virginica, the only native species, is a tree of moderate size, remarkable for the extreme hardness of its wood. It is of slow growth, forms a compact top, with small green leaves. The furrows of its bark are extremely fine, by which it is readily distinguished. Ossse'a. Named after Don Antonia de la Ossa, once director of the Botanic Gardens at Havana. Nat. Ord. Melastomacew. A genus of about forty species of shrubby plants, natives of tropical America. O. fas- cicularis, probably the only species in cultiva- tion, is a very showy plant, with white flowers borne in many-flowered bunches. It was introduced from Jamaica in 1822, and is propagated by cuttings of the half-ripened shoots. Ossified. Becoming like bone ; hard, brittle, and close in texture like a peach stone. Oswego Tea. See Monarda didyma. Osy'ris. From ozos, a branch ; alluding to the numerous pliant branches. Nat. Ord. Santa- lacexB. A small genus of green-house evergreen shrubs, natives of southern Europe, Africa, and the East Indies. 0. alba, probably the only cultivated species, has small white flowers borne in clusters on the branchlets, and is propagated by cuttings of the ripened shoots in heat. Otaheite Chestnut. A common name for Ino- carpus Edulis. Otaheite Myrtle. Securinega d/wrissima. Otho'nna. Ragwort. From othone, linen; referring to the soft, downy clothing of the original plant. Nat. Ord. Composites. An extensive genus, the species of which are mostly coarse-growing green-house or frame annuals, perennials, and low shrubs. With but few exceptions the flowers are yellow. They are natives of the Cape of Good Hope, and the African shores of the Mediterranean. But few of the species merit a place in the garden. O. crassifolia, one of the Cape species, is a handsome and showy plant, of a trailing habit, with singularly glaucous and fleshy leaves, and handsome yellow flowers, opening only in the sunlight. It is particularly well adapted for planting under shrubs, or for baskets, vases, or rustic designs. It grows freely in a light soil, and is increased by cuttings. OXA Othonno'psis. From Othonna, and opsis, like f* in allusion to the resemblance which exists between the two genera. Nat. Ord. Com- posite. A genus of glabrous green-house shrubs, differing from the allied genera, Othonna and Senecio, in the disk being constantly sterile. O. cheirifolia (Wall-flower leaved), probably the only species in cultivation, is a very pretty, low-spreading evergreen plant with rich yellow flower-heads nearly two inches across. It was introduced from north Africa in 1752, and is increased by cuttings or division. Syn. Othonna cheirifolia. Otte'lia. From Ottel, the native name in Mala- bar. Nat. Ord. Hydrocharidacem. A genus of stove or green-house aquatic herbs, widely distributed over tropical and sub-tropical countries. Two species, one 0. Indica, from the East Indies, with white, and the other O. ovalifolia, from Australia, with yellow flowers, are in cultivation and re- quire to be grown in a cistern or pan of water. Syn. Damasonium. Ouri'sia. Named in honor of Governor Owris, of the Falkland Islands, from whom Commer- son obtained the plant. Nat. Ord. Scrophular- iacecE. A small genus of handsome green-house plants from South America and Australia. O. coccinea, is a very beautiful species with a short creeping stem, cordato-ovate crenate leaves, mostly radical ; and an erect scape a foot or more in height, bearing a raceme of drooping crimson flowers arranged in opposite pairs. Some of the species are said to be hardy. Introduced in 1860. Ouvira'ndra. Lattice or Lace-leaf Plant. From ouvirandrano, the native name ; signifying water-yam, the roots being eatable. Nat. Ord. NaidacecB. A genus of aquatic plants, natives of Mada- gascar. They are popularly known as the Lattice or Lace-leaf Plants, from the singular appearance of the leaves, resembling open lattice-work, or apparently consisting of only a skeleton of nerves. The leaves grow in radiating clusters from the rhizome, and float just beneath the surface of the water, presenting a flat side to the light. The plant is not only curious, but a valuable one to the natives of Madagascar, who collect its fleshy, farinaceous roots as an article of food. It grows on the margins of running streams in shallow water. It is rare in collections, and is one of the most interesting plants for the aquarium. Oval. The same as Elliptic. Ovary. That part of the pistil which contains the ovules or seeds. Ovate. Egg-shaped. Ovoid, Ovoidal. A solid with an oval figure, or resembling an egg. Ovule. The young seeds of plants contained in the ovary. Oxali'deae. A tribe of Geraniacece. O'xalis. From oxys, acid; the leaves have an acid taste. Nat. Ord. Geraniacem. This genus comprises a great number of species, differing widely in their habits and manner of growth. Some are annuals, some herbaceous perennials, and some are green- 294 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS OXE house shrubs. Many have tuberous roots, others are bulbs. Some are tender, others per- fectly hardy. The flowers are always hand- some in form and beautiful in color. The leaves vary considerably, but they are most commonly trifoliate and slightly ac id. Many of the species are grown in the green-house, one of the most useful being O.floribunda, which was introduced from Brazil in 1829. This very beau- tiful species requires protection during winter. It has bright rose-colored flowers, which are produced in great abundance during nearly the whole year. There is a variety of this species with pure white flowers. Both are rapidly increased by division of the root. Of the bulbous species, O. Bowiei is decidedly the handsomest. The flowers are large and of a most brilliant rose color, and produced in the greatest profusion. This is generally cultivated as a green-house species ; it will, however, endure our winters if planted in a rockery or in the border ; and so tenacious is it of life that it will dispute possession with almost any other plant in the bed. This species was introduced from the Cape of Good Hope in 1824. O. tetraphylla, four leaved (syn. O. Deppei), and O. lasiandra (woolly- stamened) continue in bloom nearly all sum- mer and are very effective planted in groups in the herbaceous border or rockwork. The bulbs require to be taken up and kept from frost during winter. One of the most desir- able for conservatory decoration is O. lutea, another Cape species, with large terminal clusters of golden yellow flowers, on long slender scapes; there is a beautiful double variety of this species. O. Valdiviensis is a charming little hardy, annual species with bright yellow flowers ; introduced from Chili in 1862. O. versicolor is still another beau- tiful species. It requires the sunlight to ex- pand its flowers ; but they are generally thought to be more beautiful when closed than when open. The colors are crimson, white, and a pale shade of yellow. It is rapidly increased by offsets. A. acetosella, our common Wood Sorrel, is a native of Great Britain, and by naturalization has become common throughout the States. All the species under cultivation are either from the Cape of Good Hope or South America, and all alike are of easy culture. Oxe'ra. From oxeros, sour ; in allusion to the acrid taste. Nat. Ord. Verbenacece. A genus of about ten species of climbing shrubs, natives of New Caledonia. O. pul- chella, the only species yet in cultivation, is a very handsome, green-house climber, with large, yellowish-white flowers, two inches long, between funnel and bell-shaped, and is of easy culture ; increased by cuttings. Ox-eye. See Heliopsis. Ox-eye Daisy. See Leucanthemum. Oxlip. Primula elatior. Oxya'nthus. From oxya, sharp, and anthos, a flower ; referring to the sharp-toothed calyx and corolla. Nat. Ord. Rubiacece. A genus of white-flowered evergreen shrubs from Sierra Leone, allied to Gardenia, and requiring the same treatment in cultivation and propagation. Oxyco'ccus. Cranberry. From oxys, sharp, and kokkos, a berry ; sharp acid taste of the berries. Nat. Ord. Vacciniacece. OXY " The Cranberry is a familiar trailing shrub, growing wild in swampy, sandy meadows and mossy bogs in the northern portions of both hemispheres, and produces a round, red, acid fruit. Our native species, O. macrocarpus, so common in the swamps of New England, and on the borders of our inland lakes, as to form quite an article of commerce, is much the largest and finest species; the European Cranberry, O. palustris, being much smaller in its growth, and producing fruit inferior in size and quality. The Russian, O. viridis, is also a medium-sized variety. Of 0. macrocarpus, there are three varieties : the • Bell-shaped,' which is the largest and most valued, of a very dark, bright red color; the 'Cherry,' two kinds, large and small ; the large one the best, of a round form, a fine, dark, red berry, nearly or quite equal to the Bell-shaped ; and the Bugle Oval, or Egg-shaped, two kinds, large and small, not so highly colored as the Bell or Cherry, and not so much prized, but still a fine variety." — Downing. Cranberry culture, where the conditions are favorable, is very profitable ; and as the subject is receiving much attention, both in this country and in Europe, it may be of service to give a few facts in regard to the best methods of raising Cranberries successfully. The selection of land for the cultivation and growing of the plants is the first considera- tion ; for, unless it is adapted to their growth, it will be useless to plant them. The soil best adapted is low, moist land, suitably drained, so that the water will be from twelve to eighteen inches lower than the surface of the ground. They will grow on moderately damp soil that can be plowed or cultivated, so as to make it friable and soft, or on the borders of streams or ditches, as the plant draws its nourishment from air and water ; light sandy soil or muck covered with two or three inches of sand is the best adapted to their culture. They will not do well on dry sand or clay. If planted on rich muck or loam, they grow rank and strong, sometimes eight or ten feet, and cover the ground with a net of vines three or four inches thick. As the fruit grows on the end of the shoot, the rank growth throws out but few buds ; but if sanded over, the shoots are of short growth, and throw out more and stronger fruit buds. There are large portions of land all over our country that is now of but little value, too wet or too cold for grass, that would grow large quantities of fruit, if properly prepared by draining and sanding. In preparing the ground, if it be wet and spongy, it should be well drained, so as to leave the water about ten or twelve inches below the surface. It can then be prepared by burning over and removing the top soil, carting it off for com- post, or burning when it is dry ; by leveling the ground, and covering it with pure sand (free from seeds or weeds), two or three inches deep, to keep the surface loose, and to prevent foul grass from choking the plants. Some growers prefer to put on two or three inches of sand (on the ice), and after two years' growth, to put on one or two inches more, which, we think, is an improvement. The sand should not be mixed with the soil, but placed in a layer of two inches over it ; it will thus keep down all weeds. The roots of the Cranberry are very fine, and do not retain AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 295 OXY their vitality ; but the plant throws out new roots from the stem. In putting out the young plants, make a hole four or five inches deep, with a stick or dibble, in which place the plant, and press the soil around it firmly with the foot. Leave an inch to an inch and a half of the young vine above ground. When planting, if practicable, water freely, to settle the sand around the plant; the stem will soon begin to grow. They are very tenacious of life, and if, when received, they are appar- ently dry, put them into water from five to six hours before planting; they will regain their freshness and be sure to grow. Where failures have occurred, it has been owing to their having been taken from the parcel and put out in a dry soil. Another plan adopted by some growers, is to take the vines up without roots, often four or five feet in length, which they cut and sow in drills, 01 lay the vines down in a trench, and cover with soil, or with a stick two inches wide and half an inch thick, crowd the vines down into the soil three or four inches deep. It will take eight to ten barrels of clean vines per acre. In this case they are not planted so deep, and are not so apt to live as when planted with a dibble, as advised above, with the roots attached. They are usually sold in parcels of 100 each, and will pack more closely and cost much less than barreled vines, and are the only kind that can be forwarded by mail. Ten thousand of these will plant more ground than eight or ten barrels of vines. If placed two feet apart each way 10,000 will plant an acre ; they can be cultivated with a cultivator or horse hoe, to keep down grass and weeds; and after one or two years of cultivation they will take care of themselves, or it will only be necessary to pull out what little grass may grow. If wanted in small patches or in gardens, they can be planted a foot apart, and will cover the ground much sooner. Vines usually sold by the bar- rel have clinging to the roots earth that is full of the seeds of weeds, which are intro- duced into the soil, demanding much labor to keep the plants clean ; it is therefore better to purchase clean vines. The Cranberry can be planted out at almost any season of the year when the ground is not frozen ; in the fall from September until the ground freezes ; in spring, until July ; in the South or West, from October to March. If the vines are received too late for planting, or if frozen, they can be covered with earth or damp moss in a box, and placed in a cellar until they can be planted out, after being placed in water for a few hours. Overflowing or flooding is desir- able, if not indispensable to complete success. The water may remain on the vines until the 10th of May in the latitude of N. Y., or until there is no danger from frost. It may cover the vines from one to two feet or more, and if it can be let on or off at will for a few hours during the season, it will prevent drought, and also destroy the worm, which is some- times very destructive. The water should not stand on them when in flower, as it would injure the pollen and prevent fruiting, or when the fruit is quite green. The best known and most extensively cultivated is the Bell, of which there are two or three varieties. The Cape Cod Bell is the best known, and has been more extensively cultivated than any other variety. The color is a dark red, but it often OXY varies in color and shape on different soils, but its bearing and ripening qualities are the same, being of good size and medium early. The Bugle is an old variety, rather early, of medium size to large, a good keeper, color dark scarlet, and a medium bearer. The Cherry generally grows on wet soil or moist upland. Of this there are a number of varieties; but the one most commonly planted is of medium size, round shape, bright red color, a good bearer, but rather later than other varieties ; it is a leading market sort. Another, called Mottled Bell pink on white ground, is a very handsome fruit, but late and little grown. Two new varieties have lately been introduced, which, by a num- ber of years' cultivation, we think superior to the above in several particulars, being early and constant bearers when others fail, and in the future they are likely to become leading sorts. In some sections there would have been a short crop but for these kinds. The Eaton's Early Black Bell stands first. It ripens very early, is fully colored by the 5th of September in New England, is uniform in color and shape, of a very handsome dark red color, almost black, of medium and uniform size, a great and constant bearer, a good keeper, and the vines hardy ; and being early, it brings the highest price in market. The Mansfield Creeper was first discovered in a corn-field, and transplanted to a Cranberry bed. In its new position it was found to be entirely different in its growth and habit from all other varieties. It seemed to creep on the ground and take root at every joint, pro- ducing bearing shoots every two or three inches on the vine, and throwing out fruit buds for a fresh start another year. It is a few days later than the Eaton Bell. Both are adapted to upland culture. It is of large size and a great bearer ; the flesh is more tender, and not so acid ; color dark scarlet on one side, the other side nearly white, and slightly mottled ; shape roundish oval. It is a fine keeper. A writer in the New Hampshire "Journal of Agriculture" describes a plot of nearly three-fourths of an acre, completely covered with beds of Cranberries, the vines "thickly matted and in a flourishing condition." The grounds, which were natur- ally slightly moist, were prepared as for Strawberries, and then planted with Cran- berry vines. They were placed in rows or beds, in the same manner as Strawberry plants, and then served with a top dressing of meadow mud, which had been taken from its natural bed and exposed to the frosts of one winter, by which it was rendered very loose and friable. They were afterward culti- vated with the hoe until they had completely covered the ground, simply passing between the beds, pulling out such weeds and grass as might occasionally be seen growing among them, and killing the worms, if any were found on the plants. The proprietor suc- ceeded in obtaining a good crop, or an average of 160 bushels to the acre. The fruit was of excellent quality, and sold readily for one- third more than the common uncultivated Cranberry of the swamps in that vicinity. The above writer considers any soil that will produce a crop of Indian corn suitable for a Cranberry plot. In regard to the success of Mr. Bates in his method of culture, Mr. B. G. 296 HENDEESON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS OXY Boswell, of Philadelphia, gives the following testimony, viz.: "As the plant naturally grows in a very wet soil, it is generally sup- posed that it will not thrive in a dry soil, but this idea is erroneous. Mr. S. Bates, of Mas- sachusetts, has grown the Cranberry on a dry soil for several years, with the utmost success. His method is to plow the land, spread on a quantity of swamp muck, and after harrowing the soil thoroughly, set out the plants in drills twenty inches apart, hoe- ing them the first season, after this no culti- vation is needed. By the above method the plants will cover the ground in three years." It is hoped that the arbove details will prove ,ol service to those about to embark in the culture of this useful fruit. The Cranberry is also adapted to garden culture. Every family can have a garden patch. A moist but not clayey soil should be selected, and the ground prepared by plowing or spading, as for Straw- berries. The entire surface should be covered one or two inches with fine muck, or one or two inches of sand can be substituted. They can be planted one foot to eighteen inches apart, and four to six inches in depth. They are also highly ornamental in pots, the fruit hanging on the vines until the flowers appear for the next crop. Experiments in New Eng- land indicate that the Cranberry can be culti- vated on upland, though generally with mod- erate success. On Long Island, however, there are Cranberry patches of five or six acres, on upland soil, that produce from 50 to 100 bushels per acre, which is considered a satisfactory result, as manure is unnecessary, and the trouble of cultivating, gathering, and marketing the Cranberry is less than that required by the Strawberry or any of the small fruits. Oxyde'ndron. Sorrel-tree. From ozys, sour, and dendron, a tree ; in allusion to the foliage being sour to the taste. Nat. Ord. Ericacece. 0. arboreum, the only species, is found in rich woods in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and south- ward, has deciduous leaves the size and shape of those of a Peach. It bears its flowers in long one-sided racemes, clustered in an open panicle, terminating the branches of the season, and forms a tree from fifteen to forty feet high. Oxylo'bium. From oxys, sharp, and lobos, a pod ; the seed-pods ending in a point. Nat. Ord. LeguminoscB. Handsome spring-flowering green-house plants from New Holland. They should be occasionally stopped while young, to ensure dwarf, bushy specimens. The flowers are orange and yellow, are freely produced, and very pretty. They are increased by cuttings or from seed. Introduced in 1805. Oxype'talum. From oxys, sharp, and petalum, a petal ; sharp pointed. A genus of Asclepiadacem, comprising about fifty species of perennial herbs or sub-shrubs, mostly natives of South America, with blue, white, or purplish flowers. O. cceruleum, is a charming climber, remarkable for the changes in color exhibited by the flower at various stages of its existence. When first open it is pale blue, with a slight tinge of green ; then purplish, and when withered, lilac. All are propagated by cuttings. Intro- duced in 1852. OZO Oxyra'mphis. From oxys, sharp pointed, and ramphos, a beak ; referring to the beaked keel- petal. Nat. Ord. LeguminoscB. 0. macrostyla, the only described species is a very pretty green-house plant, with showy purplish-crimson flowers. It was intro- duced in 1837, and is easily grown and propa- gated. Oxy'ria. Mountain Sorrel. From oxys, acid; the leaves are sour to the taste. Nat. Ord. Polygonacece. Low alpine perennials with round-kidney- form and long petioled leaves, chiefly from the root, obliquely truncate sheaths, and small greenish flowers clustered in panicled racemes on a slender scape. O. reniformis, a native of Britain and O. digyna, found in the alpine regions of the White Mountains, are sometimes cultivated and are interesting plants for the rock garden. Oxy'spora. From oxys, sharp, and spora, a seed ; in allusion to the seeds being awned at both ends. Nat. Ord. MelastomacecB. A small genus of very handsome, slender, erect, or almost scandent plants, natives of eastern Bengal, and the Malayan Archi- pelago. O. paniculata, the only cultivated species, has drooping panicles, often a foot long, of bright rose-colored flowers. It is of easy cultivation, and may be increased by cuttings. Introduced in 1826. Oxy'tropis. From oxys, sharp, and tropis, a keel ; the keel petal ends in a sharp point. Nat. Ord. LeguminoscB. An extensive genus of hardy herbaceous perennials, mostly natives of Siberia, a few are found in Europe. They are nearly allied to Astragalus. O. cyanea, from the Ural Mountains, is dense-growing plant with sil- very, pinnate leaves, of dwarf habit, produc- ing spikes about six inches high of bluish- purple flowers in June. It is a slow growing plant, well adapted for the border, and can be readily increased from seeds. Introduced in 1818. 0. montana, an Austrian species, is of similar habit, with pendant spikes of dark purple flowers, which are succeeded by large inflated pods. Oxy'ura. Supposed to be from oxys, sharp, and oura, a trail ; but the application is not very apparent. Nat. Ord. Composites. O. chrysanthemoides, the only species, is a hardy annual with yellow flowers, somewhat resembling the Chrysanthemum ; it is a showy plant, and easy to grow. It is a native of California, and was introduced in 1834. This genus is now included under Layia, by some botanists. Oyster Plant. A common name for Salsify, which see. Oyster Plant. British. Mertensia maritima. Ozotha'mnus. From ozein, to smell, and thamnos, a shrub ; alluding to the odor of the plant. Nat. Ord. Composites. A genus of nearly hardy shrubs, mostly natives of Australia. 0. rosmarinifolius, has white flower heads, in dense corymbs, forming a large leafy panicle. It forms a handsome shrub and will prove hardy, south of Washing- ton. It is readily propagated by cuttings of the half ripe wood. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. P. PAC Pachide'ndron. From pachys, thick, and dendron, a tree. Nat. Ord. LiliacecB. A genus of tree Aloes, increased from suck- ers, or young side shoots, when they are pro- duced ; leaves taken off close from the stem, and laid to dry for a few days, then planted in dry soil, will produce young plants at the base. This genus is now included under Aloe by many botanists. Pachi'ra. The native name of the trees in Guiana. Nat. Ord. Malvacece. A genus of very handsome dense-foliaged trees, natives of tropical America. They are commonly known in cultivation as Carolineas, but owing to their size, are seldom seen except in large collections. Pachyphy'tum. From pachys, thick, and phy- ton, a plant; referring to the fleshy leaves. Nat. Ord. Crassulacece. P. bracteosum is a green-house succulent, allied to Echeveria, and grown for its unique appearance. There are other species, but they are less ornamental than this. Included by some under Cotyledon. Fachyrhi'zus. From pachys, thick, and rhiza, a root ; alluding to the thick, tuberous roots of the plants. Nat. Ord. Leguminosw. A small genus of tall, twining plants,, natives of the warmer parts of Asia, Africa and America. The flowers of P. angulatus are of a beautiful blue color, and are borne in long racemes. It is cultivated in the tropics for its large turnip-like, tuberous roots, which are eaten either raw or boiled. It was introduced in 1781, and is propagated by cut- tings or by seeds. Pachysa'ndra. Mountain Spurge. From pachys, thick and aner, andros, a stamen ; referring to the thickness of the stamens. Nat. Ord. Euphorbiaceaz. A small genus of hardy herbaceous plants of more botanical than horticultural interest. Of the two species, one, P. procwnbens, is a native of this country, the other, P. termi- nalis, was introduced from Japan in 1882. Fachysto'ma. From pachys, thick, and stoma, a mouth ; alluding to the thick lip. Nat. Ord. Orchidacete. A genus of stove-house terrestrial Orchids, natives of the East Indies and the Malayan Archipelago and tropical Africa. P. Thomp- soniana, an African species, with large white flowers, shining as if varnished, is the most interesting of the genus and the most gener- ally cultivated. Paddy. A name for unhusked Rice. Faedero'ta. From paideros, a name applied by the ancients to a species of Acanthus. Nat. Ord. Scrophulariacece. A genus comprising two species of dwarf hardy perennial herbs, inhabiting the moun- tains of central and eastern Europe. The yellow or blue flowers are disposed in dense terminal spikes. They are usually treated as annuals, and require a dry, airy situation, forming excellent plants for the rock-garden. Paeo'nia. Named after the Greek physician Pawn, who is said to have employed it in medicine, and used it to cure Pluto of a wound inflicted by Hercules. Nat. Ord. Ba~ nunculacem. The Peeonies common in our gardens are divided into two groups, viz. , those which are allied to the Tree Pseony (Po3onia Moutan), and which are all more or less shrubby, and the common herbaceous Paeonies. The her- baceous Pseonies are well-known ornaments of our gardens, where they are great favor- ites, from their showy flowers, their great hardiness, and their easy culture ; all essen- tial qualities for a large garden, and for such only are they desirable. The roots of these plants are composed of bundles of carrot-like tubers, which may be separated from each other to increase any particular species or variety ; or the tubers of the common Pseo- nies may be grafted with shoots of any choice kinds. The Tree or shrubby species are chiefly increased by grafting on the roots of the herbaceous sorts. Of the herbaceous spe- cies, P. officinalis, the old double crimson.was the first introduced into English gardens, having been brought from Switzerland in 1548, where it is indigenous, as well as in many other parts of Europe and Asia. P. albiflora, the old double white, is a native of Siberia, and was introduced at about the same period. P. tenuifolia, the Fern-leaved Paeony, is a native of Russia, from whence it was introduced in 1765. The fine, Fern-like foliage of this species renders the plant a beautiful object independently of its brilliant flowers. There is a double variety of it. From a limited number of species, several hundred hybrids have been produced, many of which are very beautiful, but scarcely superior to the species, yet necessary to keep alive the interest in the genus. One or two herbaceous species have been found in Oregon and California, but are inferior to the Euro- pean species. P. Moutan and its varieties are natives of China and Japan, principally on Mount Ho-an, where it is reported they grow to the height of ten feet. The native species is purple, but there are white, pink, pale pur- ple, and mottled varieties. Until the second half of this century only such sorts as had white, rose, salmon, and lilac-colored flowers were known; and we are indebted to Mr. Fortune for the introduction of his Chinese varieties, most of which have scarlet, violet, and magenta-colored flowers. Von Siebold, too, introduced a number of Japanese varie- ties, which however form a different race, and are mostly single or semi-double. Each year they increase in size and beauty, and soon become the most attractive features of the garden. They are the first of any of the varieties of Pseonias to flower, and put forth their blooms early in May. Grown in pots they may be forced into flower during winter and are excellent subjects for conservatory decoration. Many beautiful varieties have of late years been produced from seed. The shrubby species were first introduced in 1794. 298 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS P^O Paeo'ny. See Pceonia. Pagoda-tree. Chinese. A name given to Sophora Japonica, Plumieria acuminata, and Ficus Indica. Paigle. An old name for the Cowslip. Painted. A term used in cases where colors are arranged in streaks of unequal density. Painted Cup. See Castilleia. Paint Root. See Lachanthes. Palafo'xia. Named by Lagasca, in honor of Palafox, a Spanish general. Nat. Ord. Com- posite. A genus of rather coarse-growing herbaceous and shrubby perennials, with white, flesh- colored, or purple flowers, produced in rather loose paniculate or corymbose heads. P. Hooker iana, a native of Mexico is a pretty dwarf annual species, forming a dense tuft about one foot high. The flowers are pro- duced freely in loose clusters and are of a pleasing rosy-pink hue. Several of the species are common from Carolina to Texas. Palate. The mouth of a ringent, or gaping flower. Pala'va or Pala'via. In honor of A. Palau y Verdera, once professor of botany at Madrid. Nat. Ord. Malvaceae. A small genus of Peruvian herbaceous annuals, producing small pink or purple flow- ers on long axillary stalks ; rarely cultivated excepting in botanical collections. Palese. Membraneous scales resembling chaff. The inner scales of the flower in grasses are pales. Palestine Lily. Arum Palestinum. See Arum. Palicou'rea. Named after Le Palicour, of Guiana. Nat. Ord. Rubiacew. A large genus of tropical American shrubs of variable habit, with four- angled branches. They form very pretty shrubs, with variously colored (never blue) flowers. Only a few spe- cies are in cultivation. Syn. Psychotria. Paliso'ta. Named in honor of Palisot de Beau- vois, a French botanist and traveler. Nat. Ord. Commelinacece. A genus of perennial herbs, natives of Africa. P. bicolor has large bright green leaves, with broad disk of greenish-yellow, the margins being studded with stiff brownish hairs. It grows from one to two feet high, and is a very elegant ornamental-leaved plant. Introduced from Fernando Po in 1878. Paliu'rus. Christ's Thorn. Name of a town in Africa. Nat. Ord. Rhamnacece. There are but two species in this genus, both hardy deciduous shrubs, natives of southern Europe and western Asia. They are handsome shrubs, well adapted for shrub- beries. The fruit of P. aculeatus is very sin- gular, appearing like a head with a broad- brimmed hat on, whence its French name Porte Chapeau. This is the plant that is sup- posed to have furnished the thorns used for plaiting the crown placed upon Christ's head before His crucifixion. It has flexible branches, capable of being easily plaited ; and each leaf has two sharp spines at its base, one of which is straight and erect, and the other curved and bent downward so as to form a hook. There is some difference of opinion as to whether this is the plant that afforded the PAL "thorns," or whether it was Zizyphus spina- Christi, for both of which the distinction has been claimed. It is commonly used for hedges in the East, and its seeds are consid- ered medicinal by Turkish doctors, and are also used as a dye. Palm. A general name for the plants belonging to the order Palmacece. Also popularly applied to Salix caprea when in flower. Palm. Australian Feather. The genus Ptycho- sperma. Bamboo. Raphia vinifera. Betel-nut. Areca Catechu. Bourbon. The genus Latania. Broom. Attalea funifera, and Thrynax argentea. Cabbage. Oreodoza oleracea and Chamaerops Palmetto. Cabbage. New Zealand. Cordyline Australia. Catechu. Areca Catechu. Cocoa-nut. Cocos nucifera. Cocoa-nut, Double or Sea. Lodoicea SeycheU larum. Coquito. Jubcea spectabilis. Date. Phcenix dactylifera. Doom or Doum. Hyphoene thebaica. Dragon's Blood. Calamus Draco. Fan. A name applied to any Palm which has fan-shaped leaves. Fan, European. Chamaerops humilis. Fan, Jamaica. Sabal Blackbumiana. Hemp. Chamazrops excelsa. Ivory-nut. Phytelephas macrocarpa. Jaggery. Caryota urens. New Zealand. Areca Sapida. Norfolk Island. Kentia Baueri. Oil. Elceis guineensis, and Cocos butyracea. Palmetto. Sabal (Chamcerops) Palmetto. Palmyra. Borassus flabelUformis. Parlor. Aspidistra lurida. Peach. Gulielma speciosa. Pissiaba. Attalea funifera, and Leopoldinia Piassaba. Raffia or Roffla. Raphia Ruffia, and R. tmdigera. Rattan. Calamus rotang, C. rudentum, and other species. Sago. Sagus Icevis, S. Rumphii, and Cycas circinalis. Talipot. Corypha umbraculifera. Thatch. Sabal Blackbumiana. Toddy. Caryota urens. Umbrella. Kentia Canterburyana. Wax. Ceroxylon or Iriartea andicola. Wax of Brazil. Copernicia cerifera. Wine, Brazilian. Mauritia vinifera. Palma'ceae. A large natural order pre-eminent in the whole world of Plants for the grandeur and beauty attained by many of the species. They are arborescent plants, with simple, rarely branched trunks, marked with the scars of the leaves, which are terminal, pin- nate, or fan-shaped, with plicate vernation and parallel simple veins, and often with spiny petioles. Natives of tropical regions chiefly, they impart to them much of their botanical features. The greater part of them have unbranched stems, which sometimes attain a height of a hundred feet, and send out clusters of large leaves, from the axils of which bunches of flowers proceed. Although the flowers are small, the inflorescence, taken collectively, very often has a most imposing aspect. Linnaeus called them the Princes of the Vegetable Kingdom, a designation which AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 299 PAL they well deserve. Martius estimates the species at nearly six hundred, of which about one-sixth have fan-shaped leaves. They have been divided by him into various tribes, de- pending chiefly on the nature of the ovary ovules and fruit; and sections are formed according as the leaves are pinnate or flabel- liform, and the stems spiny or not. The properties of the plants of this order are quite various. In the countries in which they grow, they are used for supplying food and for forming habitations. The fruit of some is edible. Many supply oil, wax, starchy matter, and sugar, the last being fer- mented so as to form an intoxicating drink. Their fibres are employed for ropes, and the reticulum surrounding their leaves is some- times manufactured into brushes and brooms. These products also enter largely into com- merce, and are sources of very considerable wealth. The Palm of the Bible seems to be Phoenix dactylifera, or Date Palm, the drupa- ceous fruit of which supplies food to many of the inhabitants of Arabia and Africa, and is largely exported to different parts of the world, the United States receiving a large share. Cocos nucifera, the Cocoanut Palm, is one of the most useful of the family, supply- ing food, clothing, materials for houses, and utensils of various kinds, besides ropes and oil. The Cocoanuts form an important item of commerce, and are now "dessicated" or dried in very, large quantities in New York and other places. The Palm Oil imported from the west coast of Africa is obtained by bruising the fruits of Eloeis Guineensis and E. melanococca. The Betel Nut is the produce of Areca catechu, and from it an extract is pre- pared of an astringent nature resembling Catechu. Fine Sago is said to be procured from Sagus kevis and S. Rumphii, found in the eastern islands of the Indian Ocean. Sago, sugar, and a kind of Palm wine are procured from Caryota wrens. The date sugar of Ben- gal is the produce of Phoenix sylvestris. Ce- roxylon or Iriartea andicola yields wax, which forms a coating over its trunk. Copercinia cerifera is another wax-producing Palm. Cal- amus Rotang is used as cane under the name of Rattan, and has a variety of uses in the mechanic arts. Calamus rudentum, the Cable Cane, a native of the East Indies, Cochin- China, and the Moluccas, grows sometimes to the length of five hundred feet. The fruit of Attaleafunifera is known by the name of Co- quilla Nut, and its hard pericarp is used for ornamenting umbrella handles, etc. The spathe of Manicaria saccifera comes off in the form of a conical cap, and is used as a cover- ing for the head in the West Indies. Cha- mcerops humilis is the only European species of Palm. Hyphcene Thebaica, the Doom Palm of Egypt, has a trunk which divides in a dichotomous manner ; its pericarp is used as food, and has the taste of gingerbread. In the parched districts between the rivers Dande and Zenza, in tropical Africa, Wel- witsch came upon a Palm forest five leagues in length, which consisted exclusively of the crowded stems of a branched Palm belonging probably to Hyphame. Like most African Palms, it yields an excellent wine. Raphia has given the gardener his best tying ma- terial. Other examples might be added of the usefulness of this noble family of plants ; but PAN the above condensed view will probably suf- fice to give the reader some proper concep- tion of the utility of a class of plants that are now largely used for ornamental and decora- tive purposes. Bentham and Hooker, in "Genera Plantarum," recognize one hundred and thirty-two genera, and there are from eleven to twelve hundred species recorded, though a considerable number of these are not well known. Palma Christi. Ricinus communis. Palmate. Having five lobes, the mid-ribs of which meet in a common point, so that the whole bears some resemblance to the human hand. Palmatifid. Cut half-way to the base in a Palmate manner. Palmetto. See Sabal Palmetto and Chamazrops Palmetto. Palmetto. Saw. Seranoa serrulata. Fa'lmia Named after L. H. Palm, author of a work on " The Climbing of Plants," Stuttgart, 1827. Nat. Ord Convolvulacem. P. bicolor, the only species, is a beautiful pubescent, twining plant, a native of tropical Asia and Africa. The flowers are white or pale yellow, with a dark purple centre. Prop- agated by seeds in spring. Syn. Convolvulus bicolor. Palm OiL See Elmis. Palm-veined. Having the main vein radiating from a common point. Palmyra Palm. See Borassus. Paludosus. See Palustris. Palumbi'na. Named from palumba, a dove. Nat Ord. Orchidaceos. P. Candida, the only species, is a beautiful little epiphytal Orchid from Mexico. It was formerly known as Oncidium candidum. The flowers, which are produced on delicate stems, are waxy white, with yellow centre. This plant succeeds well grown in a green- house, and is increased by division. Palustris. Growing in marshy places. Pampas Grass. See Gynerium. Pampas Rice. See Sorghum cernuum. Panama Hat Palm. See Carludovica. Pa'nax. Ginseng. From pan, all, and akos, remedy; referring to the stimulant drug Ginseng, to which miraculous virtue is as- cribed by the Chinese. Nat. Ord. Araliaceos. A genus of glabrous, rarely tomentose trees or shrubs widely dispersed over Asia, tropical Africa, the Pacific Islands, Australia, and America. Many of the species, such as P. omatum, P. dissectum, P. Victories, P. pluma- tum, etc., are cultivated as ornamental green- house plants ; P. lepidum, a late introduction from Brazil, is a very distinct and ornamental plant of dense, compact habit, and deeply in- cised, spinosely-toothed leaves. They are all of free growth and may be propagated by cut- tings of the roots. They are often found in cultivation under the name of Aralia. The root of the P. Schinseng or Ginseng, is highly esteemed by Chinese physicians, who affirm that it is able to ward off or remove fatigue, to restore exhausted animal powers, to make old people young ; in a word, to make man immortal, if anything on earth can do so. At Pekin it is said sometimes to have been 300 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS PAN worth its weight in gold. The genuine Man- churian Ginseng consists of a stem from which the leaves spring, of a centre root, and of two roots branching off at the same point from each side of the centre root; the stem somewhat resembles the head and neck ; the side roots the shoulders and arms of a man ; the main root represents the body, and a fork which the main root frequently forms, supplies the legs. The Chinese, with a not ungraceful feeling, believe that a plant which thus expands into the human form, amid thicket and jungles on which the foot of man never trod, must be intended to alleviate the sufferings of the human race. It is now so scarce that the collection of the wild root is prohibited by imperial edict. The roots of P. quinquefolium, a native species found in most of the United States, is collected and exported to China in large quantities, though it is not so highly valued as the indigenous plant. It is now being largely gathered by Chinamen in some of our western States, who sell it in large quantities to wholesale druggists for shipment to China, which we believe is the only market for it. It is always sold by weight, and is collected mostly by American- ized Chinese, who, to make it weigh well, often carefully drill holes in the largest roots into which they run melted lead, and cover it in so ingeniously that it can only be dis- covered by handling and weighing each root individually ; so in this case, as well as in card playing : " For ways that are dark, and tricks that are vain, the heathen Chinee is peculiar." Pancra'tium. From pan, all, and kratys, potent ; supposed medicinal qualities. Nat. Ord. AmaryllidacecB. An extensive genus of half-hardy and green- house, lily-like, bulbous plants, with long strap-like leaves, mostly deciduous, a few only being persistent. The flowers are white or greenish-white, produced in an umbel on a solid scape about two feet high. The species are found in the south of Europe, north Africa, Syria, Arabia, and in several of the more southern of the United States. P. mar- itimum is the Sea Daffodil, common in the sands on the coast of the Mediterranean. Its flowers are pure white and delightfully fra- grant. P. Carolinianum is common in salt marshes from South Carolina to Florida. Chapman, in his " Southern Flora," makes no distinction in the two species. There are several other species noticed in his Flora, but these are the best representatives of the genus. P. ovatum is a most showy species, bearing an umbel of fifteen to twenty-five pure white, sweet-scented flowers. It is an exceedingly attractive plant and can be had in bloom twice a year. P. calathinum, a native of Brazil, with pure white fragrant flowers, placed under Hymenocallis by some botanists, is often found in cultivation as Ismene Knightii (see Ismene). They all require green-house treatment, and should be grown in light loam and leaf-mould, and allowed a season of rest. They are propagated by off- sets. Pandana'ceae. A natural order of curious trees or bushes, sometimes with adventitious roots, long imbricated, amplexicaul leaves, usually with spiny margins and backs, and unisexual PAN or polygamous flowers, covering the whole spadix. They are mostly natives of the Ma- layan Archipelago, and Seychelles, a few being found in Asia, Africa, tropical Australia, and the West Indies. The species, number- ing about eighty, have no great economic value, and are classed under two genera, Freycinetia and Pandanus. Pandanophy'llum. Derivation of name ob- scure. Nat. Ord. Cyperac&B. P. humile, the only described species, is a very ornamental plant, having, as its name would imply, very much the appearance of the Pandanus. It is a native of Java, and has glossy, deep green, arching leaves, which are furnished with two secondary ribs, giving the surface of the foliage a peculiar channeled ap- pearance. The end of the leaf, which is from six to nine feet long, and about two inches broad, is suddenly narrowed down into a long thread-like termination. This is the only species under cultivation, though five or six others have been found. Pandanus. Screw Pine. From pandang, a word in the Malay language, signifying con- spicuous. Nat. Ord. Pandanacece. An extensive genus of exceedingly orna- mental, dwarf-growing trees, common in the East Indian Islands. The leaves are imbri- cated, and embrace the stem, bearing some resemblance to those of the Pine-apple. They are from three to five feet long, and are placed in three spiral rows round the extremities of the branches. The most remarkable peculi- arity of the Screw Pine is its singular method of propping itself in the soil, by means of aerial or adventitious roots, which are pro- jected from the sides of the trunk at an angle suited for its mechanical support. This is a beautiful provision for the exigencies of the plant, which acquires an enormous top weight by the accumulation of its thick, fleshy leaves, and would lose its balance but for its power of throwing down new roots when they are required. The flowers of P. odoratissimus yield a most delightful fragrance, for which it is largely cultivated in Japan. P. utilis, which best deserves the name of Screw Pine, is the species most frequently met in our green-houses, and is, perhaps, the most valu- able of any plant used in decoration, as it withstands gas, dust, and ill usage generally better than almost any known plant. It is the most useful in its native country, the Mauritius, where it is not only common, but is cultivated for the sake of its leaves, which are extensively used in the manufacture of the bags or sacks in which sugar is exported. • They are increased by seed, or may be propa- gated by cuttings, the former being the method by which a stock is usually obtained in this country. There has lately been intro- duced into the green-house two very orna- mental kinds, P. Javanicus variegata and P. Veitchii, both with foliage striped green and white. As decorative plants they are exceed- ingly valuable, both for the green-house and parlor. They are increased by offshoots or suckers, which root rather slowly. The tem- perature in which they are propagated should not be less than 75°. Pandurate or Panduriform. die-shaped. Panic-Grass. See Panicum. The same as Fid- ■300 PANSIEB (TYPES OF) PAPAVER BRACTEATUM. PAHICUM GERMANICUM (MILLET). 17 &^4jB*&>Z***Sr7''- FAPAVER (JAPANESE POMPONE POPPY). PAPAVEK (ICELAND POPPY). PAPAVEB (TYPE OF LARGE FLOWEBED POPPY). PANICUM PLICATUM VABIEGATUM. 301 AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 301 PAN Panicle. A compound raceme. Pa'nicum. Panic Grass. From panicula, a panicle ; form of flowering. Nat. Ord. Gram- inacecB. An extensive genus of grasses, mostly used as fodder plants. P. Germanicum is the well- known Hungarian Grass. P. plicatum niveo- vittatum is a beautiful species for green-house culture, suitable for baskets and vases. It is propagated freely by division, and will grow in almost any position given it. The elegant drooping variegated grass, known in cultiva- tion as P. variegatum, is, according to modern botanists, now named Oplismenvs Burmanni variegatus, which see. The common Crab Grass, P. sanguinale, an annual species intro- duced from Europe and now thoroughly naturalized, though spoken of as a good pasture grass in Tennessee and Mississippi, etc., is a great pest when it gets foot-hold on a lawn or grass plot, as it bends before the mowing machine, and, of course, when allowed to seed, spreads more and more every year. Probably the best plan to get rid of it is to loosen it up with a sharp rake before it ripens its seed, and use the scythe for a few times, cutting both ways so as to cut all the seeding stems, and in fall giving each spot a good scarifying with a rake, sowing it over with lawn grass seed mixed with white clover, and finishing with a liberal dressing of a good lawn enricher. A year or two of this treatment will eradicate the pest. Pa'nsy . Viola tricolor. The almost innumerable varieties of Pansies, embracing every color, from white to black, maroon, yellow, purple, blue, self-colored, and those with the most delicate markings, as well as the bold and showy faces of others, are all hybrids between the annual species, V. tricolor, a weed in English fields and gardens, and the perennial kinds, V. Altaica, from Tartary, V. grandiflora, a native of Switzerland, V. lutea, of Great Britain, V. Rothomagensis, of France, and V. pedata var. bicolor, of this country. The first attention paid to the cultivation of the Pansy, and that which resulted in making it a florist's flower, was given by Mary Bennet, who had a little flower-garden in the grounds of her father, the Earl of Tankerville, at Walton-upon- Thames, England. She had prepared a little bed, in which were placed all the varieties of Pansies which she accidentally discovered in her father's garden. Aided by the industry and zeal of the gardener, Mr. Richardson, several new varieties were raised from seed and transplanted to this little bed. From this small beginning in 1810 may be traced the rage which has since prevailed in the cultivation of this popular flower. The English, French, and German horticultural societies offered great inducements to the florist, in the way of premiums, for the best flowers, and as the race was free to all, the interest awakened was of a most lively character, one which every gardener of importance helped to keep alive. The result has been, the Pansy of to-day in contrast with the little V. pedata and V. tricolor, the parents, so common in our woods and roadsides. Our seedsmen and florists have been so much absorbed in watching the race for supre macy in the production of seed of this flowei, that that they did not stop to consider whether PAP we could compete, and were only anxious to know which country had merited the honor, in order to send to her for our supply. Our success in other things encouraged us to try this, and the first trial was sufficient to assure us what we have since proven, viz.. that the very best Pansies grown in this country were from seed of our own growing. Pansies require to be grown in a rich, moist loam, and protected as far as possible, from the midday sun, and from winds, and during the warmer summer weather should not be allowed to get dry. In England special varieties of Pansies are grown from cuttings for manjT years by name. In the climate of the United States this plan is hardly practicable, even if desirable, as the ravages of the Red Spider during the summer months on this plant virtually destroy it, and cause it always to be treated as a plant never to be carried over the second season after flowering. For this reason it is here raised only from seed. This is usually first sown in August, which gives plants large enough to be pricked away in cold frames during winter. Such plants give a profuse and continuous bloom from March to June, or, if sown earlier than August — say July 1st — they will bloom from October throughout the entire winter and spring months, if grown in a temperature averaging 45° at night. For succession, for late spring and summer flowering, we find the best date to sow is the first week in January, and if carefully handled, by growing in a low temperature (average not to exceed 50° at night), they will begin to flower in April, and will continue to flower longer than those sown in August, which get exhausted by June, while the January crop flowers right through the hottest summer months. A number of years ago a fine collec- tion of Double Pansies originated with us, but we failed to perpetuate them successfully by cuttings, and they were ultimately lost; but they had no merit except novelty, as they were far inferior in beauty to the single kinds. Papaver. From papa, pap, or thick milk ; the juice of the poppy was formerly used in chil- dren's food to make them sleep. Nat. Ord. PapaveracecB. An extensive genus of hardy, or half-hardy annual or perennial herbs, with a milky juice, widely distributed through Europe, Asia and Africa; one species is found in Australia. The flowers are red, violet, white or yellow, and are very showy and transient, many dropping the day they expand. Many exceed- ingly showy annual varieties are now in cultivation, 'and come true from seed, which only requires to be sown where desired, as early in the season as practicable. P. orientals, one of the showiest of hardy perennials intro- duced f ;om Armenia in 1714, has large thistle- like leaves about a foot long, clothed with white bristly hairs. Its deep scarlet flowers, more than six inches in diameter, have a dark purple spot at the base of each petal. Its variety, P. O. bracteatum, is much superior in size and attractiveness. This variety forms huge masses of handsome foliage, the flowers are carried on stiff stalks, with leafy bracts at intervals, and one well-developed bract under each flower, which is six to nine inches 302 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS PAP across, and brilliant scarlet. There are several other varieties all highly ornamental plants. P. nudicaule, the Iceland Poppy, a native of Siberia and the northern parts of America, ha? large, rich, yellow flowers on naked stems, and is a handsome plant for borders or rock- work. P. umbrosum is a strikingly brilliant hardy annual from the Caucasus, and there- fore perfectly hardy. The color of the flower is a dazzling scarlet with a jet-black blotch on the inner base of each petal, which is sometimes margined with ashy-gray. The varieties known as the Carnation, Picotee, and Ranunculus Poppies are double varieties of Papaver Rhmas, the common Corn Poppy, and possess almost every shade of color except blue and yellow. They are also known as French and German Poppies, and are exceed- ingly showy. P. somniferum is a beautiful and most variable Poppy. It generally grows about two feet in height and varies in color from white to deep crimson. By selec- tion a type called the Pseony-flowered, with very double broad-petaled flowers of many colors, from pure white to deep crimson, varie- gated, etc., has been obtained, and is one of the most showy annuals for summer decoration. The original species, P. somniferum, is the plant especially cultivated in India, Persia, Asia Minor, Egypt, etc., for the production of Opium, which is the inspissated milky juice obtained by making incisions in the capsule. The seeds are destitute of any narcotic quality and may be eaten. White Oil or Oleum is manufactured from them in France, and they are sold as birds' food, under the name of Maw. Papavera'ceae. A natural order consisting of herbs or shrubs, usually with milky or colored juice, having alternate, exstipulate leaves, and long, one-flowered peduncles. The species are chiefly European, but they are found pretty generally distributed over the world. The order possesses well-marked narcotic properties. Opium is the concrete milky juice procured from the unripe capsules of Papaver somniferum and its varieties. There are about twenty genera, as, Papaver, Esch- scholtzia, Argemone, Fumaria, and nearly one hundred and fifty species. Papaw Tree. See Asimina. Paper Mulberry. See Broussonetia papyrifera. Paper Narcissus. (See Narcissus Tazetta var. papyraceus.) This, like the Roman Hyacinth, Lily of the Valley and other bulbs, is largely forced for cut flowers in all the principal cities of the United States. The manner of doing this is exactly like that practiced with the Roman Hyacinth, which see, under Hya- cinth. Paper Plants. Few persons imagine how many different plants have of late years been util- ized in the manufacture of paper. Rags of course still furnish the bulk of our paper, but large quantities are also made of wood, straw, and Esparto-Grass Stipa (Macrocloa) tena- cissima, and Lygeum Spartium, and in various parts of the world successful experiments have been made with a multitude of materials that have not yet been brought into general use. In France paper has been manufactured out of leaves which are cut, pressed into blocks, and then steeped in lime-water to PAP reduce them to pulp. In Ireland the Mallow, the Hop-vine, the Yellow Iris, and even the Red Clover have furnished paper pulp, and in Scotland the stems of the Hollyhock, Bracken, Flags and Rushes of several kinds, and even Peat have been utilized. Sea-weed and Tan have also been used in Europe and the East, Ramie Pine-apple fibre, Bamboo stalks, and the refuse of Sugar-cane. Paper Reed. See Papyrus. Paper Tree. Trophis aspera. Paphi'nia. From Paphia, a surname of Venus. Nat. Ord. Orchidaceai. The only species known, P. cristata, was formerly included in the genus Maxillaria, but on a revision of that genus was separated by Dr. Lindley, as above. It is a splendid plant, bearing richly-colored flowers, and is rather difficult to cultivate. The best manner of managing it is to pot it in a mixture, turfy peat and sphagnum moss, elevating it con- siderably above the rim of the pot, allowing it to stand in the warmest part of the hot- house, and being careful to avoid over- water- ing at any time. It delights in a high, moist temperature while growing, but should be kept nearly dry when at rest. The young shoots which spring from the base of the pseudo-bulbs are very impatient of stagnant moisture, and should therefore be kept clear of the surrounding surface. It is now inclu- ded by some botanists under Lycaste. Papiliona'ceae. A sub-order of Leguminosce, spread over the whole world, but principally inhabiting the north temperate Hemisphere. There are some two hundred and ninety-five genera, and about forty-seven hundred species. Papilionaceous. Having such a corolla as that of the Pea ; butterfly-shaped flowers. Pappoose Root. The popular name of Caulo- phyllum. Pappus. Thistle-down. The down crowning the achenium of the Thistle, and other Com- positas represents the calyx, so the scales, teeth, chaff, as well as bristles, or whatever takes the place of the calyx in this family, are called pappus. Papyraceous. Of a texture or the consistency of writing paper. Papy'rus. From the Syrian babeer, pronounced papeert whence the Egyptian word papyrus, paper. Nat Ord. Cyperacem. A small species of aquatic plants, mostly inhabitants of tropical countries. P. anti- quorum, the Egyptian Paper Reed, is the plant which yielded the substance used as paper by the ancient Egyptians. The underground root-stalks spread horizontally under the mud where the plant grows, continuing to throw up stems as they creep along. These st ?ms are from eight to ten feet high, a por- tion of them being above the water. The largest portion of the stalk was chosen and was' split down one side ; the soft centre was removed, and the sheath, about eight inches in breadth, was pressed, polished, and rubbed with oil of Cedar to preserve it from decay. Two sheets were then gummed, one upon the othir, in such a way that the fibres of one run at right angles to those of the second, in order that sufficient consistency might be AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 303 PAR obtained ; and then these doubled sheets were attached to one another to form rolls of any desired length. Papyrus was so generally used even in the later Roman period that Cassiodorus, says a recent writer in the Revue Horticole, wrote an epistle congratulating the whole human race upon the fact that the im- port duty laid upon it by Theodoric had been decreased. In the time of Xerxes an immense number of Papyrus cables were manufactured in Egypt for use in his fleets and in his bridge- building enterprises. The stems were like- wise used for ornamenting the Egyptian temples and crowning the statues of their gods. It is usually cultivated as an aquatic, and may be grown in a pot of rich loam, if kept standing in a pan or tub of water. It forms a very prominent and interesting plant in an aquarium or a warm sheltered corner of the sub-tropical garden. It is easily propa- gated by division of the creeping rhizomes. The stems of P. corymbosus, form the Indian matting, of which large quantities are impor- ted. This genus of sedges has been replaced under Cyperus, by Bentham and Hooker. Paraca'ryum. From para, beside, and karyon, a nut ; in reference to the position of the nut- lets. Nat. Ord. Boraginaceai. A genus of hardy biennial or perennial herbs, natives of southern Europe and central Asia. Several species of Cynoglossum and Omphalodes are now included under this genus. Paradisa Liliastrum. This is given as the cor- rect name of Anthericum Liliastrum. Paradise. Grains of. A common name applied to the seeds of Amomum Melegueta. Paradise Nut. The fruits of Bertholletia excelsa. Paraguay Tea. See Bex Paraguariensis. Para Nuts or Brazil Nuts, are the fruits of Bertholletia excelsa. Parasite. A plant which obtains its nourish- ment directly from the juices of some other plant to which it is attached. Parasol. Chinese. Sterculia platanifolia. Parchment Bark. Pittosporum crassifolium. Farda'nthus. Blackberry Lily. From pardos, a leopard, and anthos, a flower ; referring to the spotted flowers. Nat. Ord. Iridacem. P. Chinensis, the only species, is a hand- some, hardy herbaceous plant, with orange - colored flowers, spotted with purple. It has branching flower stems, and continues to pro- duce its lily-like flowers for several weeks. The seed-pods have the appearance of a Blackberry, whence the common name. The seeds will not drop for a long time after the branches have been cut, and, when dried, are useful to mix with grasses, in arranging dried bouquets. It was introduced originally from China and Japan, about 1825, but is now found naturalized on East Rock, New Haven, on Long Island, and many places southward. It is easily propagated by seeds or division of the roots in spring. Parenchyma. The soft cellular tissue of plants, like the green pulp of leaves. Pariera Brava. "A name given to Cissampelos Pariera. Pariera Brava. White. A common name in Cayenne for Abuta rufescens. PAR Parietal. Growing to the walls or interior sur- faces of any ovary. Parina'rium. From Parinari, the native name of the plant in Brazil. Nat. Ord. Rosacea^. A genus of shrubs or trees, natives of Australia, the Pacific Islands, tropical Africa, Brazil, and Guiana. But few of the species are in cultivation. P. excelsum, the Guinea Plum, and P. macrophyllum, the Gingerbread Plum, are noble plants bearing large terminal bunches of flowers, but, owing to their size, they are seldom found in cultivation except in botanic gardens. Pari-pinnate. Equally or abruptly-pinnate. Paris. From par, equal ; alluding to the regu- larity of the parts. Nat. Ord. Liliacem. Herbaceous perennials with creeping rhi- zomes, natives of Europe and temperate and mountainous Asia. P. quadrifolia (Herb- Paris) sends up a simple stem a foot high, bearing at its summit four whorled, large oval, acute leaves, and a single terminal large green flower. The leaves and stem were formerly used in medicine, and the juice of the berry is considered poisonous. Paris Daisy. Chrysanthemum frutescens. Pari'tium. From pariti, the Malabar name of one of the species. Nat. Ord. Malvaceae. P. elatum, the only species of this genus, is an evergreen tree found only in Cuba and Jamaica, where it is called Mountain Mahoe. It affords the beautiful lace-like inner bark called Cuba Bast, formerly only used for tying around bundles of Havana cigars, and once extensively used by nurserymen and gardeners for tying up trees and plants, more particu- larly in budding. It is not so valuable, how- ever, for this purpose as the more recently introduced tying material known as Raffia. This genus is now placed under Hibiscus, which see. Pa'rkia. Named in honor of Mungo Park, the celebrated African traveler. A small but widely spread genus of Leguminosm, found in Africa, India, Java, Surinam, and Brazil. P. Africana, the African Locust tree — Netta, or Nutta, of the negroes — is a large tree, bearing bi-globular heads of scarlet flowers at the end of long stalks, followed by clusters of flat, leathery pods, containing a number of seeds enveloped in a farinaceous pulp, from which an agreeable beverage is made. Parkinso'nia. Named in honor of John Parkin- son, author of "Theatrum Botanicum," pub- lished in 1629. Nat. Ord. Leguminosaz. An ornamental spiny shrub, common to Lower California and Mexico. It is grown in the West Indies for a hedge plant, and called Jerusalem thorn. Parlor Gardening. In parlor gardening, or the keeping of plants in private rooms, one of the most essential things, for satisfaction to the owner, is to start with young, healthy plants, rather than old matured specimens. One of the most common errors in keeping plants in rooms is that of keeping the temper- ature too high. Very few plants suitable for the parlor grow well in a temperature of less than 50 degrees at night. To be sure, there are quite a number of plants grown in private rooms, that require a much higher temper- ature ; but to have satisfactory results, the two divisions should be kept in separate 304 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS PAR rooms at the different temperatures, say 50 degrees at night for the so-called green-house plants, and 65 degrees at night for the tropical or hot-house. A few of the best green-house plants suited for parlor culture, the average temperature at night being 50 degrees are as follows : Azaleas, Abutilons, Ageratums, Callas, Cinerarias, Carnations, Cyclamen, Camellias, Echeverias, Ferns (green-house and Climbing), Feverfews, Fuchsias, Ger- aniums (Pelargoniums), Hoyas (Wax Flow- er), Holland bulbs of all kinds, Ivies (Parlor and Hardy), Lobelias, Passifloras, Roses, etc. A limited list of the best suited tropical or hot- house plants for parlor culture, the temper- ature at night to average 65 degrees is as follows : Allmandas, Begonias, Bouvardias, Caladiums, Cissus, Crotons, Coleus, Dracasnas, Ferns (tropical), Heliotropes, Hibiscus, Poin- settia, Torenias, Tropeeolums, Palms, etc. The instructions for propagating, watering, potting, killing of insects, soil, mulching, and all other operations given for culture of plants, will be found under these different heads, and will be found equally applicable to the culture of plants in rooms as in green- house or hot-house culture. Saucers in which to place the pots are sometimes a necessity in rooms to save the floors from getting wet ; but care must be taken not to allow the water to stand for any length of time in the saucers. Plants in rooms during the winter months, when grown in a temper- ature of 50 degrees, will not usually require water more than twice a week, and in the temperature of 65 degrees perhaps thrice a week; but in no case water unless the lightness of the color of the soil on the top gives indications that the plant is dry, and then water sufficiently to go through the pots ; those that seem less dry, water more sparingly, and those that are wet, give none whatever until they become dry, no matter how long the time may be. As plants grown in rooms have only one side to the light, it will conduce to the health and symmetry of the plant to turn it around at least once a week, so that each side will have a like proportion of light. Parmentie'ra. Named after A. Parmentier, a French writer on edible plants. Nat. Ord. BignoniacecB. P. cereifera, the only introduced species, has large white flowers, followed by waxy-yellow fruits two to three feet long, hanging down, and much resembling candles, hence the com- mon name "Candle Tree." Introduced from Panama in 1866. Parna'ssia. Grass of Parnassus. Named after Mount Parnassus, where they were fabulously said to have first sprung. Nat. Ord. Sax- ifragacecB. A genus of swampy, herbaceous perennials. Several of the species are common throughout the United States in marshy places. P. Carolin- iana, Grass of Parnassus, flowering from July till September, one of the most beautiful of the species, bears from the root several bright green, smooth, roundish leaves, heart-shaped at the base, among which rises to the height of about a foot a simple angular stem, terminating with a simple large flower of a creamy white color delicately veined with green. P. fimbri- ata, found from Colorado to California, and PAR northward to British America is even more attractive, as it has larger flowers, with peculiar fringe-like appendages to the petals. It has kidney-shaped root leaves, resembling those of P. asarifolia, another native species which bears similar white flowers, but with- out the singular fringes to the petals. P. pa- lustrfe, common on the shores of Lake Supe- rior and northward, is not so showy as the former, but is very beautiful, and is the only European species. Paro'chetus. From para, near, and ochetos, a brook ; its habitat. Nat. Ord. Leguminosw. A small genus of prostrate herbaceous plants widely distributed over the mountain- ous regions of tropical Asia, and in some portions of Africa. P. communis the Sham- rock Pea, the only cultivated species, is a trailing clover-like plant, with bright-green, slightly blotched leaves, growing freely dur- ing summer, and producing its solitary bright- blue flowers of amethyst tint, in autumn, admirably adapted to trail down the face of a rockery. Although it is considered a hardy perennial, yet it will occasionally get winter- killed ; therefore, for the purpose for which it is adapted, a few plants should always be held in reserve to fill any vacancy there may be in spring. Paronychia. Nail-wort. A genus of the Nat. Ord. Illecebraceai, containing about forty species of but little interest except P. serpyl- lifolia which makes a pretty covering for beds, or amongst taller growing plants, and is much used in carpet bedding. Parro'tia. Iron-tree. Named after F. Parrot, a German naturalist and traveler. Nat. Ord. Hamamelidacece. A small genus of hardy trees or shrubs, natives of northern Persia and the Caucasus. P. Persica, the only species yet in cultivation, is a very ornamental tree for the lawn ; its yellowish flowers are not particularly showy, but its ovate-oblong deep green leaves are very striking when they assume their au- tumnal tints of orange and scarlet. It is closely allied to the Liquidambar, and is increased by seeds or by layers. Introduced from Persia in 1848. Parrot's Bill. A popular name of Clianthus puniceus. Pa'rrya. Named in honor of Capt. W. E. Parry, the Arctic navigator. Nat. Ord. Cruciferaz. A genus of hardy, dwarf pilose plants, all Arctic, or natives of the highest mountains of northern Asia. P. nudicaulis, with lilac flow- ers, P. integerrima, bright purple, and P. Artica, pale purple, are all beautiful plants for the rock-garden or rock-work. P. Arabidi- florum is a synonym of Neuroloma or Arabis Arabidiflora. Parsley. Apium (Carum) Petroselinum. This well-known seasoning herb is a hardy bien- nial, a native of Sardinia, whence it was intro- duced into England in 1548. Its uses for culinary purposes, such as sauces, soups, and in garnishing various dishes, has become very general, and several varieties of it are offered by seedsmen. Among the ancient Greeks and Romans, Parsley always formed a part of their festive garlands, on account of retaining its color so long; and Pliny states that, in his time, there was not a salad AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 305 PAR or sauce presented at the table without it. The ancients supposed it absorbed the inebri- ating fumes of wine, and by that means pre- vented intoxication. Of the several varieties, the double curled-leaved is preferred for use, as being more ornamental than the common sort, of which it is nothing more than a variety, obtained and continued by careful selection. We have ourselves gathered, for botanical specimens, plants of Parsley from the ruined walls of Craigmiller and Crichton Castles, near Edinburgh, evidently the origi- nal species, as the leaves were perfectly plain, having no trace of the curl that makes it now so attractive for garnishing, showing that the warrior lords of these ancient battlements had not troubled themselves to make any advance in the ornamental qualities of this vegetable. Parsley is now grown in immense quantities for spring and winter use, usually in cold frames, where it is sown in February or March, at the time the Lettuce is planted. It is sown between the rows of Lettuce, which is planted six inches apart. As the seed is slow to germinate, and grows slowly at that season of the year, the Lettuce crop is cut off before the Parsley gets large enough to be injured. It develops so as to cover the ground usually about June 1st, and is then cut off and marketed. It soon starts to grow, but is usually of little value until the late fall months. To get a late fall crop, it is cut off and thrown away by about September 15th, which gives a full and heavy crop of leaves by November. It is then covered with sashes, which are raised up for ventilation in mild weather; and thus retarded, a full crop is easily obtained for the holidays, when it is in its greatest demand. Another plan is to sow Parsley in shallow boxes, say four inches deep, made of such width and length as will fit in under the front bench of the green- house stage ; far enough under to get a fair proportion of light, say from fifteen to twenty inches. In this position it will grow finely, and, with a liberal use of liquid manure, can be cut four or five times during the winter in any green-house averaging 65°. For this pur- pose the seed can be sown in the boxes as late as August. Hamburg or Turnip-rooted Parsley is a variety grown only for the use of its fleshy roots, which are cooked and eaten like Pars- nips. The roots may be stored in winter until required for use. Neapolitan or Celery-leaved Parsley is sometimes grown for the use of the leaf- stalks, which are blanched, and eaten like those of Celery. Parsley Fern. See Allosorus. Parsnip. Peucedanum sativum (syn. Pastinaca). The common garden Parsnip is a hardy bien- nial, a native of Great Britain and the south of Europe. It has also become naturalized to a considerable extent in the United States. The leaves of the wild kind are hairy and dark green ; in the cultivated Parsnip, smooth, and of a light, yellowish green. The Parsnip has long been cultivated as an esculent root. According to Pliny, they were held in such repute by the Emperor Tiberius that he had them annually brought to Rome from the banks of the Rhine, where they were then successfully cultivated. A deep, rich, loamy PAS soil, free from stones, is requisite for the favorable growth of the Parsnip ; but when grown upon poor land, it loses much of the rank flavor which it acquires if cultivated in rich soils, and though not nearly so abun- dant, is far more sweet and agreeable. Pars- nip seed is almost useless at two years old, and fresh seed is even slow of germination, and is one of the seeds which should always be trodden in with the feet or firmly rolled after sowing. Sow in drills three inches deep and twelve inches apart. In England the roots are used to make a domestic wine. Parso'nsia. In memory of James Parsons, M.D., a Scotch botanist. Nat. Ord. Apocy- nacece. A genus of twining shrubs, natives of Aus- tralia, New Zealand, and tropical Asia. P. albiflora bears its fragrant white flowers in many-flowered panicles. But few of the spe- cies are in cultivation. Parterre. A French term used to denote a small enclosure or flower-garden, laid out in different sizes and shapes. Partial. Secondary ; partial petiole, a division of a main leaf-stalk, or the stalk of a leaflet ; partial peduncle, a branch of a peduncle, etc. Partite. Divided into a number of segments, which extend almost as far as the base of the part to which they belong, as Tripartite, three-parted ; Quadripartite, four-parted, etc. Partridge Berry. See Gaultheria and Mitchella. Partridge Pea. See Cassia chamcecrista. Partridge Wood. The wood of certain South American and West Indian trees, one of which is Andira inermis. Paspalum. From paspalos, one of the Greek names for Millet. Nat. Ord. Graminacece. P. dffitatum (syn. P. ovatum) aud P. platy- caule, sometimes called Louisiana Grass, natives of Virginia and southward, are men- tioned in Dr. George Vasey's report to the Department of Agriculture, 1887, as valuable forage grasses for the South, especially P. dilatatum, " which has very strong roots, and grows in the longest drought almost as fast as when it rains." Pasque Flower. See Anemone Pulsatilla. Passeri'na. From passer, a sparrow, in allusion to the beaked seeds. Nat. Ord. Thymelaceoz. A genus of heath-like shrubs, natives for the most part of the Cape of Good Hope. Several species are in cultivation. P. tinctoria is employed in dying wood yellow. Cuttings of the young wood root freely in sand. Passiflo'ra. Passion Flower. From passio, suf- fering, and flos, a flower ; referring to the fila- ments, or rays, and other parts, being likened to the circumstances of Christ's crucifixion. Nat. Ord. Passifloracece. An extensive genus of hardy, half-hardy, and green-house climbers, mostly natives of tropical America, a few only being indigenous to Asia. The name was applied from the resemblance afforded by the parts of the plant to the instruments of our Lord's Passion and its attendant circumstances : thus the three nails — two for the hands and one for the feet — are represented by the stigmas; the five anthers indicate the five wounds ; the rays of glory, or, as some say, the crown of thorns, are represented by the rays of the "corona;" 306 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS PAS the ten parts of the perianth represent the Apostles, two of them absent (Peter, who denied, and Judas, who betrayed our Lord) ; and the wicked hands of His persecutors are seen in the digitate leaves of the plant, and the scourges in the tendrils. Had this genus been named by modern scientists, it is proba- ble their imagination would have taken a somewhat different direction. All the Passion Flowers are handsome, fast-growing and free- flowering plants. They are best adapted for large structures ; in small houses close prun- ing becomes necessary, and the plants conse- quently cannot develop their true characters. The flowers are very beautiful in some species ; in all, they are of singular form and very interesting. The deep red or scarlet P. racemosa (syn. P. princeps) and its many hybrids, P. Raddiana (syn. P. Kermesina), and others produce their flowers in long pendulous racemes and are unsurpassed for green-house decoration. P. quadrangularis, and its varie- gated-leaved variety, P. q. acubifolia, P. Decais- neana, P. alata, etc., have very large sweet- scented flowers, the upper side of the calyx and petals deep crimson, and the rays varie- gated with purple, white, and crimson. P. ccerulea and its white sweet-scented variety, Constance Elliott, as well as the beautiful hybrid, forms P. c. Colvillei, P. c. racemosa, etc., are favorite sorts for covering arbors, trellises, etc., and are often used as drooping plants in large vases or hanging baskets. They are nearly hardy with us and with P. incarnata (the Maypops of the Southern States) are entirely so south of Washington. Beautifully golden- variegated varieties of the white, P. C. Con- stance Elliott and P. Pfordtii have been pro- duced by Mr. John Spalding, of New London, Conn., by grafting them on the golden-spotted P. q. acubifolia. They are great acquisitions to our list of variegated climbers, and grow and flower as freely as the types. P. edulis is sometimes grown for its edible fruit which is purple when ripe, the pulp orange-colored and of a pleasant sub-acid taste with a flavor some- thing like an orange. Several other species produce edible fruits, which are greatly esteemed in their native countries. All of the species are easily increased by cuttings, except P. racemosa, and its hybrids, which grow much better when grafted on any of the free-growing sorts. Passiflora'ceae. A natural order of herbs or shrubs, often climbing; natives chiefly of warm climates, but most numerous in South America, and the West Indies. Several species are of economic value, some of them having edible fruit. The order comprises nineteen genera, including Tacsonia, Passi- flora, and Carica, and upward of two hundred species. Passion Flower. See Passiflora. The name is also applied to the species of Tacsonia. Pastina'ca. Parsnip. From pastinum, a dibber ; referring to the shape of the root. Nat. Ord. Umbelliferce. A genus of uninteresting plants with the exception of P. sativa, the Parsnip, which see. This genus is now included under Peucedanum. Patchouli Plant. The common name of Pogos- temon Patchouli, which see. PAU Patens, Patent. Spreading wide open, as petals from the calyx. Paterso'nia. Named after Col. William Pater- son, an excellent botanist. Nat. Ord. Iridacece. A small genus of green-house herbaceous perennials from New Holland, with purple, Iris-like flowers, very showy, but of so short duration that the plant is not worth cultivat- ing. Patience. Patience Dock, or Herb Patience. Rumex Patientia. The leaves were formerly much used in France and England, and to some extent in this country as a pot-herb, now almost entirely superseded by Spinach. Patri'nia. Named in honor of E. L. Patrin, a French traveler in Siberia. Nat. Ord. Valerian- ates. A genus of hardy perennial herbs, natives of central and eastern Asia. Their yellow flowers are borne in corymbose-paniculate cymes, well above the foliage. They will succeed in any light, rich soil, and may be in- creased by seeds. Generally cultivated under the name of Valeriana. Patulous. Moderately spreading. Pauciflorus. Few-flowered. Paulli'nia. Named after Ch. Fr. Paullia, a Danish botanist. Nat. Ord. Sapindacece. An extensive genus of South American evergreen climbers, with divided compound leaves. P. thalictrifolia, bears clusters of pale pink flowers, but is cultivated more for its beautiful fern-like foliage, and forms a very beautiful climber for the warm green-house. It was introduced from Rio Janiero in 1871, and is easily increased by cuttings. The seeds of P. sorbilis is the Guarana of Brazil, of which the " Treasury of Botany" says : " The Guarana is extensively used in Brazil, Guatemala, Costa Bica, and other parts of South America, as a nervous stimulant and restorative. The pounded seeds constituta Guarana. It is used both as a- remedy for various diseases, and also as a material for making a most refreshing beverage. Not only is the active principle of Guarana identical with Theine, but as far as is known, no other substance yields it so abundantly, the amount being 5.07 per cent., as against good Black Tea, which yields 2.13, and Coffee from .08 to 1.00. The mode of using the Guarana is curious and interesting. It is carried in the pocket of almost evejy traveler, and with it the palate-bone or scale of a large fish, the rough surfaces of which form a rasp, upon which the Guarana is grated ; and a few of the grains of the powder so formed are added to water, and drank as a substitute for Tea. The effect is said to be very agreeable." Paulo'wnia. Named after the hereditary Prin- cess of the Netherlands, daughter of the Emperor of Bussia. Nat. Ord. Scrophulari- acece. P. imperialis comprises this genus. It is a splendid hardy tree, both for foliage and flowers ; in habit and general appearance re- sembling the Catalpa, though less hardy. The young shoots are liable to be killed by frost in this latitude, but if protected for one winter, they will not require further atten- tion, and its rapid growth afterwards will well repay for that little trouble, with a beautiful flowering shade tree. The flowers, which re- AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 307 PAU semble the Gloxinia in shape, are blue when first expanded, gradually turning to bluish lilac, about two inches in length, and are pro- duced in terminal panicles or from seeds. The branches become very brittle with age, and are easily broken by strong winds ; and this has been a great objection to its use as an ornamental tree for the lawn, for which it is otherwise admirably suited. Introduced from Japan in 1840, and propagated by root cuttings or by seeds. Pauperitious. Poor ; having a starved appear- ance. Pave'tta. The name of one of the species in Malabar. Nat. Ord. Rubiaceaz. A small genus of green-house, white- flowered evergreens, allied to the Ixora, and requiring the same treatment. P. borbonica, a handsome species, is the one chiefly grown in our green-houses. Pavia. Buck-eye. Named in honor of Peter Paiv, a Dutch botanist. Nat. Ord. Sapin- dacem. A division of the genus JEsculus, includ- ing the dwarf smooth-fruited varieties. See JEsculus. Pavo'nia. Named after Josef Pavon, M.D., a Spanish botanist, and traveler in Peru. Nat. Ord. Malvacece. A small genus of low-growing shrubs and herbaceous perennials, natives of South America. They are allied to the Mallow, and have showy scarlet flowers. The beautiful green-house species known as P. Makoyana, and P. Wyoti, are now placed under Goethea, which see. Paxto'nia. Named in honor of Sir Joseph Paxton, author of several works on botany and gardening. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A small genus of Orchids now included under Spathoglottis. Pea. A common name for various members of the Nat. Ord. Papilionacece. Pea. Angola. Cajanus Indicus. Black-eyed. A West Indian name for Dolichos sphairospermus . Black-rooted. Orobus niger. Butterfly. The popular name for Clitoria Mariana. Chick. See Cicer arietinum. The name was formerly written Cich or Ciche, sometimes Rammes Ciches. Earth. Lathyrus amphicarpus. Earth-nut. Lathyrus tuberosus. Egyptian. Cicer arietinum. Everlasting. Lathyrus platyphyllus (syn. L. latifolius). Pield or Gray. Pisum sativum var. arvense. Glory. See Clianthus Dampieri. Heart. Cardiospermum Halicacabum. Heath. Lathyrus macrorhizus. Hoary. The genus Tephrosia. Lord Anson's. See Lathyrus Magellanicus. Milk. The genus Galactea. No-eye. Cajanus indicus flavus, which see. Orange. The small immature fruit of the Curacoa Orange used for flavoring wines. Partridge. Heisteria eoccinea and Cassia Chammcrista. Pigeon. Ervum Ervilia. Pigeon. Of the West Indies. Cajanus In- dicus. Poison of Australia. The genus Swainsonia. PEA Rosary. The seeds of Abrus precatorius. Sea-side. Lathyrus maritimus. Sensitive. A common name for Cassia nic- titans. Shamrock. Parochetus communis. Sugar. A name given to some varieties of Pisum sativum, which have tender edible pods. Sweet. Lathyrus odoratus. Tangier. Lathyrus Tingitanus. Wood. Lathyrus sylvestris, and Orobus sylva- ticus. Pea. Pisum sativum. The varieties of the com- mon Pea are numerous, and differ widely, some not growing more than one foot high, others growing ten to twelve. The difference in the seed contrasts as strangely, some being small, hard, and nearly tasteless, while others are large, rich, and luscious. The history of the Pea, like many of our most familiar gar- den vegetables, and even its native country, are involved in obscurity. It is generally supposed to be a native of the south of Europe, and to have been introduced into English gardens at a very early period. It is recorded in English history, that when the English forces were besieging a castle in Lothian, in the year 1299, their supply of pro- visions was exhausted, and their only resource was in the Peas and Beans of the surrounding fields. This circumstance would warrant the belief that the Pea was one of the staple articles of produce for human food. The more delicate kinds, however, do not appear to have been cultivated until a much later period. Mention is made of Peas being brought from Holland in the time of Queen Elizabeth, that were "fit dainties for ladies, they came so far and cost so dear." In the reign of Henry VIII., too, the Pea appears to have been somewhat of a rarity, as in the privy purse expenses of that king is an entry : "Paied to a man in rewarde for bringing pescodds to the king's grace, iiijs. viiid." The varieties and sub-varieties of this vege- table are almost innumerable, and are being constantly brought forward. That there has been a steady improvement in the quality of the Pea, every one that has given its cultiva- tion the least attention must admit, and that we are indebted to the English gardeners and amateurs for these improvements, must also be admitted. Our own seedsmen are beginning to realize the fact, that it is discreditable to themselves and their country to be outdone, even in Peas, and have produced some new varieties of superior merit. Peas for seed are now grown largely in New York State and Canada ; previously they were nearly all im- ported. Peach. Persica vulgaris. Persia is credited with being the native country of the Peach, and to have disseminated it largely. Colu- mella says the Peach, when first brought into the Roman empire from Persia was poisonous, an opinion that has been questioned by other writers. It was early introduced into Greece, but at what period is uncertain. The Romans brought it direct from Persia during the reign of the Emperor Claudius. It was first men- tioned by Columella, and afterward described by Pliny. From the best information we can obtain, the natural fruit, or wild Peach, was much inferior to the first introduced into the 308 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS PEA United States in 1680. When, -where, or by whom the improvements were made, is not even a matter of conjecture. What is posi- tively known of the Peach at the present day is, that the United States and China produce the finest in the world. English gardeners, on coming to the United States, are at a loss to understand, that while in latitudes here where the thermometer falls 15v below zero, orchards of Peach trees stand unprotected in the open field, while in England, where the thermometer rarely reaches zero, the Peach must have the protection of a brick wall, or it fails to prove hardy. The reason is, that our hotter, drier summer and fall months better ripen the young shoots than the colder and moister climate of Britain. The Peach tree is short-lived in most sections of this country, attaining its best fruiting condition usually from six to ten years old. It prefers a light, warm soil, and is much benefited by an occasional dressing of wood ashes. In planting, the trees should be cut back severely, the main stem reduced about one third, and the side branches cut back to one bud. This lessens the demand upon the roots, and enables the remaining buds to push more vigorously. The heads should be kept low, the trunks not to exceed three feet in height, and as the fruit is produced on the wood of last season's growth, the necessity for keeping up a good supply of annual shoots all over the tree is obvious. Regular spring pruning should therefore be attended to, the weak shoots being shortened one half, and the strong ones one third, care being taken to leave a sufficient supply of flower buds. This keeps the head round, full, and well fur- nished with bearing wood, reduces the chances of wind-falls to a minimum, and, if annually followed, will give them compact heads in- stead of open, straggling ones, the branches of which break down with the first full crop of fruit. In the Peach-growing districts the cultivators do not expect more than three crops in five years ; and if they get two full crops in that time they are content, and ama- teurs should expect no more. When a crop sets at all there is usually more fruit than the tree can carry and ripen. No fruit needs severe thinning more than the Peach. In bearing seasons half or two-thirds of the Peaches which set may be removed with benefit to the rest. The fruit should be removed when about the size of Hazel-nuts. "Two maladies affect the Peach Tree, and, because they are little understood, have ren- dered this fine fruit tree comparatively short- lived, and of little value in some sections of the country. These are the Yellows and the Peach-borer. The former appears to be a constitutional disease, no external cause being assigned for it, and, as yet, there appears to be no remedy for it, but by exterminating, root and branch, every tree which is infected with it. The eggs which produce the borer are deposited in the soft portion of the bark just at the surface of the earth. If a quantity of leached ashes or common soil be heaped to the height of one foot around the trunk in May and suffered to remain until October, the borer will not attack it. Another simple remedy is, in spring, to wrap the stem in . strong coarse or tar paper about a foot high, securely tying it and protecting the lower part PEA with earth." — Downing's Fruits and Fruit Trees of America. The distance the trees should be set apart may be from ten to twelve feet. Among the favorite varieties for garden culture may be named the follow- ing, for the descriptions of which see nursery catalogues : Alexander, Hale's Early, Yellow Rare-ripe, Early Louise, Crawford's Early, George the Fourth, Early Silver, Large Early York, Coolidge's Favorite, Haine's Early, Stump of the World, Noblesse, Morris White, Surpasse Melocoton, Crawford's Late, etc. The Double-Blossomed Peach is, when in full bloom, one of the gayest and most beautiful of fruit trees, and bloom- ing with its lovely companion the Double- Flowering Cherry, finds a place in all our pleasure-grounds and ornamental plantations. Its flowers are of a lively red color, nearly full double, and so thickly disposed on the branches as to be very striking and showy. This sort is rendered more dwarf for shrub- beries by budding it upon the Mirabelle or the Cherry Plum stock. The fruit, which is sparingly produced, is roundish oval, pale greenish-yellow, tinged with red, and is of indifferent flavor. The Crimson or Camellia- flowered, with large double flowers of a rich crimson hue, especially attractive and showy, the Carnation-flowered with flowers striped like a Carnation, the Variegated-flowered with flowers of different hues on the same tree, and the White-flowered with pure white very double flowers, are among the more recent introductions, and grouped with the older varieties are very effective, and planted either singly or in groups produce most charming effects in the early spring. Peach Myrtle. A common name for Hypo- calymna robustum. Peach Palm. The popular name for Gulielma 8pecio8a. Peacock Flower. The common name for Poin- ciana regia. Peacock Flower Pence. A common name for Adenanthera pavonina. Peacock Iris. See Vieusseuxia. Syn. Iris pavonia. Peacock Treasure Flower. A name given to Gazania pavonia. Pea Nut. See Arachis. Pear. Pyrus communis. The Pear, like the Apple, is indigenous to most parts of Europe. Historically speaking, it is not so ancient as the Apple. At what period it became amelior- ated, or removed from its wild state, is un- known. In regard to its hardiness and longev- ity, it is greatly superior to the Apple or any other of our fruits. There are trees existing, and in bearing condition, over three hundred years old. The Romans cultivated thirty-six varieties in the days of Pliny ; and Parkinson, in his Herbal (1629) speaks of sixty-four sorts in the London nurseries. The history of the cultivated Pear has never been written. It was at an early period common in Syria, Egypt, and Greece ; whence it was imported into Italy, France, Germany, and Great Britain. Pear culture in France has been carried on to a most wonderful extent, thirty-six hundred varieties having been offered from one nursery. The Pear, though not indigenous PEAK (SPECIMEN DWABF) PENNISETTJM LATIEOLIUM (GTMNOTHBIX) . PELARGONIUM ECHINAXUM. PELARGONIUM (DOUBLE IVY). PELARGONIUM (GOLDEN TRICOLOR*. PELARGONIUM (6H0W OR REGAL). PENCILLARIA (PEARL MILLET). 309. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 309 PEA . to the United States, grows here to the great- est perfection, both as regards quality and quantity. The leading horticulturists of the country having made a speciality of its cul- tivation, aided by congenial soil and climate, their efforts for the production of perfect fruit have been happily rewarded. The Seckel, the recognized standard of perfection wherever the Pear is grown, is of American origin, hav- ing originated on the farm of Mr. Seckel, about four miles from Philadelphia. The fol- lowing extract from Downing's " Fruits and Fruit Trees of America" may prove interesting to many: "The precise origin of the Seckel Pear is unknown. The first pomologists of Eu- rope have pronounced that it is entirely distinct from any European variety, and its affinity to the Rousselet, a well-known German Pear, leads to the supposition that the seeds of the latter Pear, having been brought here by some of the Germans settling near Philadelphia, by chance produced this superior seedling. However this may be, the following rnorceau of its history may be relied upon as authentic, it having been related by the late venerable Bishop White, whose tenacity of memory is well-known. About eighty years ago, when the Bishop was a lad, there was a well-known sportsman and cattle-dealer in Philadelphia, who was familiarly known as " Dutch Jacob." Uvery season, early in the autumn, on return- ing from his shooting excursions, Dutch Jacob regaled his neighbors with Pears of an un- usually delicious flavor, the secret of whose place of growth however, he would never satisfy their curiosity by divulging. At length the Holland Land Company, owning a consid- erable tract south of the city, disposed of it in parcels, and Dutch Jacob then secured the ground on which his favorite pear tree stood, a fine strip of land near the Delaware. Not long afterwards it became the farm of Mr. Seckel, who introduced this remarkable fruit to public notice and it received his name. * * * The original tree still exists (or did a few years ago), vigorous and fruitful. Speci- mens of its pears were quite lately exhibited at the annual shows of the Pennsylvania Hor- ticultural Society." The Pear is a peculiar fruit in one respect, which should always be kept in mind, viz. : that most varieties are much finer in flavor if picked from the tree and ripened in the house, than if allowed to become fully matured on the tree. There are a few excep- tions to this rule, but they are very few ; and on the other hand we know a great many varie- ties that are only second or third rate when ripened on the tree, but possess the highest and richest flavor if gathered at the proper time and allowed to mature in the house. This proper season is easily known, first, by the ripening of a few full grown, but worm- eaten specimens, which fall soonest from the tree; and secondly, by the change of color and the readiness of the stalk to part from its branch on gently raising the fruit. Pears are grown as dwarfs and standards; the former being planted from eight to ten feet apart, the latter from ten to fifteen feet. The dwarfs, budded on the quince stock, are mostly used for garden culture, as, from their habit, they are more suitable, besides having the invaluable quality of coming quicker into bearing. Time was when the adage went, PEA " He that plants Pears, plants for his heirs ; " but this is now no more applicable to the Pear than to the Peach ; for we can have fine crops of Pears budded on the Quince in three to five years from the time of planting. The following varieties are recommended for cul- tivation on the Quince. All are hardy, vigor- ous and handsome growers, and bear well. (For descriptions, see nursery catalogues.) Bartlett, Brandywine, Margaret, Duchess dAngouleme, Belle Lucrative, Doyenne Bous- sock, Beurre Hardy, Howell, Louise Bonne of Jersey, Beurre Superfin, Beurre d'Anjou, Easter Beurre, and Lawrence. In addition to the above the following well-known sorts will be found to succeed admirably, grown as standards. Clapp's Favorite, Souvenir du Congres, Tyson, Beurre Bosc, Flemish Beauty, Hoosic, Seckel, Urbaniste, Beurre Clairgeau, Dana's Hovey, Winter Nelis, Josephine of Malines, etc. Pear, Avocado or Alligator. Persea gratis- sima. Pear. Prickly. See Opuntia. Pear. Strawberry. Cereus triangularis. Pearl Bush. The popular name of Exochorda grandiflora. Pearl Millet. Pencillaria spicata. This fodder plant has been largely grown during the past few years, and promises to be most valuable for that purpose, particularly in the Southern States. It is a tender plant ; that is, being of tropical origin it will not grow until the soil and atmosphere are in the condition to grow Corn, Tomatoes, Melons, or such plants as require a high temperature for growth. Like all plants grown for fodder, the richer the soil the greater the product. We quote from our published article on the subject in the "Ameri- can Agriculturist," November, 1878, the local- ity of the experiment being on our grounds in Jersey City, N. J. : " Pearl Millet has been cul- tivated for some years as a forage plant in some of the Southern States, as ' African Cane,' 'Egyptian Millet,' 'Japan Millet,' and in some places as ' Horse Millet,' and ' Cat-tail Millet.' But little was known of it at the North before last year, and then only in such small quantities as to hardly allow of a fair trial. From what we saw of it in 1877, we determined to give it a thorough trial this season. A piece of good, strong, loamy ground was prepared as if for a Beet or Turnip crop, by manuring with stable manure at the rate of ten tons to the acre, plowing ten inches deep, and thoroughly harrowing. The Millet was then sown in drills eighteen inches apart, at the rate of eight quarts to the acre. We sowed on the 15th of May, about the date we sow corn, and in twelve days the plants were up so that a cultivator could be run between the rows, after which no further culture was necessary, for the growth became so rapid and luxuriant as to crowd down every weed that attempted to get a foothold. The first cutting was made July 1st, forty-five days after sowing. It was then seven feet high, covering the whole ground, and the crop, cut three inches above the ground, weighed, green, at the rate of thirty tons per acre; this, when dried, gave six and a half tons per acre, as hay. After cutting, a second growth started, and was cut August 15th, forty-five days from the time of the first cutting. 310 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS PEA Its height was nine feet. It weighed this time at the rate of fifty-five tons to the acre, green, and eight tons dried. The third crop started as rapidly as the second, but the cool September nights lessened its tropical luxuri- ance, so that this crop, which was cut on October 1st, only weighed ten tons green, and one and a half tons dried. The growth was simply enormous, thus : First crop in forty- five days gave thirty tons green, or six and a half tons dry ; second crop in forty-five days, gave fifty-five tons green, or eight tons dry ; third crop in forty-five days, gave ten tons green, or one and a half tons dry ; the aggre- gate weight being ninety-five tons of green fodder in 135 days from the date of sowing, and sixteen tons when dried to hay. This exceeds the Clover meadows of Mid-Lothian, which, when irrigated by the sewage from the City of Edinburgh, and cut every four weeks, gave an aggregate of seventy-five tons of green Clover per acre. There is little doubt that Pearl Millet is equally as nutritious as Corn fodder, which it resembles even more than it does any of the other Millets. We found that all our horses and cattle ate it greedily, whether green or dry. If sowing in drills is not practicable, it may be sown broadcast, using double the quantity of seed, say sixteen quarts per acre. The ground should be smoothed by the harrow, and again lightly harrowed after sowing. If rolled after har- rowing, all the better. I know of no farm crop that will better repay high manuring, but, so great is its luxuriance, that it will pro- duce a better crop without manure than any other plant I know of. In those parts of the Southern States where hay cannot be raised, this is a substitute of the easiest culture ; and being of tropical origin, it will luxuriate in their long hot summers. Even though our Northern seasons may be too short to mature the seeds, our experiments in New Jersey this summer show what abundant crops may be expected if similar conditions are secured. Pearl Millet as a fodder plant presents a new feature in our agriculture, and I feel sure that within ten years we shall wonder how we ever got on without it. As we have had many inquiries as to the best manner of dry- ing Pearl Millet for 'Hay,' we would state that our crop was sown in a solid block, so that when cut it had to be removed from the land where it grew, tied in sheaves, and hung up on an extemporized rail fence. This plan, of course, would not answer when grown on a large scale, as the crop is so enormous that such an expedient for drying would be too expensive both for labor and rails, and as it is too heavy and succulent to be dried, like Timothy and Clover, on the ground where it is cut, it must be removed, for to attempt to dry it where it grows would destroy the second crop. Circumstances, of course, must , in a great measure be the guide, but we would suggest that, when grown for the purpose of being dried, it be sown in beds, say twelve feet wide, with alleys six feet between, where it may be dried; this, of course, would be a loss of one-third of the land for the first crop, but it would be little or no loss of crop in the second, for the Millet would spread so as to fill up all the six feet of alley." Pearl-Plant. Lithospermum officinale. PED Pearls of Spain. Muscari botryoides, var. album. Pearl Weed or Pearl Wort. See Sagina. Pearly Everlasting. See Antennaria. Pecan Nut (Carya olivaformis). The Pecan is cultivated quite extensively now in the Southern States, and it may be found growing on river-banks from Indiana to Texas. Although the tree is well known for its delicious nuts, which constitute an article of considerable commerce, it has not been cultivated systematically for profit until re- cently, except in a few localities in Texas and Mexico. The demand for Pecan-nuts both in this country and in Europe, far exceeds the supply, and owners of land in the South, bor- dering on river bottoms, would do well to plant it with the thin or paper shelled variety. In Florida there are many acres of low rich land, aptly called there "flat woods," which it is almost impossible to drain, and which, as the trees do not seem to mind an overflow of water occasionally, would be just the place for Pecan groves. Land along the bayous and river-bottoms all over the Southern States, being comparatively cheap, owing to destruc- tive overflows of water, the prospect is that much of this waste land will be taken up by Pecan-groves, which will well repay the planter in eight or ten years at most. Young groves planted some few years ago in a low flat-wood as an experiment, are now doing finely. As they increase in size and age their growth becomes rapid and their bearing in- creases, the crop nearly doubling itself every year or two. Pectinate. Pinnatifid, or pinnately divided into narrow and close divisions, like the teeth of a comb. Pe'ctis. From pecten, a comb ; referring to the pappus. Nat. Ord. Composite. A large genus of green-house or half-hardy annual or perennial herbs, natives of the warmer parts of America, from Brazil or Bolivia as far as Mexico. P. angustifolia is a charming annual, well suited for bedding pur- poses. It ranges in height from six to ten inches, and the flowers are of rich golden yel- low, and so freely produced as to form dense cushions. It was introduced to cultivation in 1865. Pedalia'ceae. A natural order of herbaceous perennial, rarely annual plants, natives of tropical countries, principally Africa. The order is allied to Bignoniacece, but differs in the divisions of the seed pod and the wingless seeds. The seeds of Sesamum indicum and S. orientale yield an abundance of fixed oil of good quality, known as Sesamum or Gingile Oil. The young seed-pods of Martynia, the Unicorn plant, are used for pickling. Martynia, Unca- ria and Sesamum, are examples of the genera, which number about a dozen. Pedate. Resembling a bird's foot ; a modifica- tion of the palmate leaf, when its lower lobes are again divided and directed downwards, as in Saxifraga pedatifida. Pedicel. The stalk of each particular flower in a cluster. Pedicula'ris. From pediculus, a louse ; the sup- posed effect on sheep eating it. Nat. Ord. Scrophulariaceas. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 311 PED A genus of plants popularly known as Louse-worts. P. sylvatica and P. palustris, indigenous to Great Britain, were formerly supposed to produce in sheep eating them the disease which gave name to the genus ; but there is no good reason for such belief. Some of the species are beautiful little plants, with very regular, finely cut leaves. P. Canadensis, the Wood Betony, is a rather showy, native perennial, with spikes of greenish-yellow and purple flowers, common in open woods and on banks, flowering from May till July. P. lan~ ceolata is brighter in color, from one to three feet high, and is found in swamps from Con- necticut to Virginia and Wisconsin. It flowers during August and September. Pedilan'thus. From pedilon, a slipper, and anthos, a flower. Nat. Ord. Euphorbiacece. A small genus of curious plants, resembling in habit and general appearance the Euphorbia, to which genus they may be referred for culti- vation. Peduncle. A flower-stalk, whether of a single flower, or of a flower cluster. Peg-wood. A name applied to Cornus sanguinea, and Euonymus Europaws. Felargo'nium. Stork's bill. From pelargos, a stork ; referring to the beak-like formation of the seed-pod. Nat. Ord. Geraniaceae. A very extensive genus of green-house ever- green-shrubs, and a limited number of bien- nials and annuals. They are mostly natives of the Cape of Good Hope ; a few occur in Australia, one in the Canary Islands and one in Asia Minor. The Scarlet kinds are popu- larly called Geraniums, though very different from the genus of that name, when viewed in a botanical sense. The greater number of kinds cultivated in the green-house and garden are hybrids, which are produced with great facility in this genus. The number of varieties already produced, embracing a great range of form and color, is truly astonishing, and every year adds to the number new varieties in some respect superior to any before introduced. The improvements in the foliage even has been almost as marked as in the flower. We have now a sufficient number of varieties with ornamental foliage to constitute a distinctive feature in the green-house, and which are use- ful to the florist in making up his bouquets, baskets, and ornamental designs. All this is due to the untiring zeal of the florist. We cannot follow up the history of the introduc- tion of these choice hybrids, but must be content with giving a brief account of the species to which the various classes belong. All the species noted are natives of the Cape of Good Hope, unless otherwise mentioned. The Fancy and Show Pelargoniums, strictly green-house varieties, and unsuitable for the border, are descendants of P. grandiflorum, introduced in 1794. One of the hybrids was called "Lady Washington," which gave the whole class the popular name, ' ' Lady Wash- ington Geraniums." Some division of this class also have the distinctive appellation of French Pelargoniums, probably because they had their origin with the French hybridists. As specimen plants for green-house or con- servatory decoration, these have decided merit. There are few cultivated plants that make a more beautiful display, when they receive the care and attention they need. P. PEL inquinans, Scarlet Pelargonium, is one of the parents of that large and important class now known as Bedding, Scarlet, or Zonal Gera- niums, and formerly very generally called Fish and Horseshoe Geraniums, and of which we now have an immense variety of double and single, embracing every shade of scarlet, crimson, rose, carmine, violet, white, etc. This species has a splendid habit, being dwarf and compact, the flowers are intense scarlet, of good form and substance ; it has large reni- form, indistinctly zoned leaves, soft to the touch, and exhaling, when rubbed, an aromatic odor, which is unpleasant to most persons. P. zonale, Zonal Geranium, or Horseshoe Geranium, so-called from a dark, discolored zone on the surface of the leaf, is a smaller species than the preceding, and has the leaves more strongly marked. The petals of the flower are narrower, and of a deep carmine color. A variety of this, P. marginatum, is the well-known Silver-leaved Geranium. All the "Tricolors," such as Mrs. Pollock, Sunset, Golden Tricolor, etc., have originated from the above few species. It must not be sup- posed that all these beautiful colors, both in foliage and flower, have been produced hastily, or that they are in the true sense hybrids. Persistent cross fertilization of the many varieties, that has been carried on for the last thirty years, has given us the rare sorts enumerated in florists' catalogues. We think it is not to be doubted, however, that some of the " Tricolors " are simply "Sports." P. peltatum is the Ivy-leaved Geranium. Of this species there are two varieties that were introduced in 1701, and from these have sprung many beautiful sorts, which grow rapidly and flower freely. From their grace- ful, trailing habit they are useful for window gardening and rustic work. Many of the Ivy- leaved have handsome double flowers. Of the species, besides those noted above, we will briefly mention P. echinatum, introduced into England in 1797, but mostly lost sight of until recently, except in collections of old plants. It is, indeed, an entirely distinct spe- cies, and one of the best for general cultiva- tion for cut flowers. The foliage is covered with a white, silvery down ; the lower petals of the flowers are pure white, and the upper ones marked or blotched with dark purple or maroon. In their habitat several variations in color appear, but are all of the same general character. P. capitatum is the popular Rose Geranium, which was introduced in 1690. P. quereifolium is the larger Oak-leaved Geranium, introduced in 1774. P. graveolens is the Lemon- scented Geranium ; P. vitifolium is the Balm- scented Geranium, receiving its specific name from the resemblance of its leaves to those of the Vine ; P. fragrans is the Nutmeg-scented Geranium, introduced in 1731 ; P. tomentosum is the Pennyroyal Geranium ; P. gratum is the Citron-scented Geranium; P. odorata is the Apple-scented Geranium. Between some of the above species hybrids have been produced, but we cannot trace them with any degree of confidence, and therefore make no mention of them. Pelecy'phora. Hatchet Cactus. From pelaky- phoros, hatchet-bearing, referring to some fancied resemblance in the tubercles to a hatchet. Nat. Ord. Cactacece. 312 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS PEL P. Aselliformis, the only described species, has white and rose colored flowers, borne near the summit of the stem. It is very nearly allied to the Mammillarias, but in place of the spines of that genus it bears two rows of flat horny scales, which overlap like the tiles on a roof. It was introduced from Mex- ico in 1843. Fele'xia. From pelex, a helmet, referring to the shape of the back sepals. Nat. Ord. Orchid- ccecB. A small genus of terrestrial orchids, natives of tropical America. The species are not very ornamental, and are seldom seen in cultiva- tion. Pelican-Flower. A common name for Aristo- lochia grandiflora. Pe'llaea. An extensive genus of Ferns, both native and exotic, many of them very hand- some. P. gracilis, and P. atropurpurea, are our best known native species. According to later authorities many of the species formerly placed under Platyloma, Allosorus, Pteris, etc. , are now classed with this genus. As consti- tuted at present it contains upwards of sixty species. Pellicle. A thin skin that envelopes certain seeds. Pellio'nia. Named after A. A. Pellion, an officer in Freycinet's voyage round the world. Nat. Ord. UrticacecB. A genus of stove-house plants, often creep- ing at the base ; natives of tropical and eastern Asia, as far as Japan and the Pacific Islands. P. Daveauana is by its pendant habit admir- ably adapted for basket-work for the green- house. The leaves much resemble Trades- cantia zebrina in shape, but are much more handsome. The centre of the leaves is light green, with a broad band around the margin of dark brown or chocolate. At fir,st sight it would easily be mistaken for one of the fine- foliaged Begonias but it is quite distinct from that genus. Introduced from Cochin China in 1880. Pellitory of Spain. See Anthemis. Pellitory of the Wall. Parietaria officinalis. Pelo'ria. An irregular flower, become irregular by a monstrous development of complemen- tary irregularities (Prof. Asa Gray). Pelta'ndra. From pelte, a buckler, and aner, a man. Nat. Ord. Aroidece. P. Virginica, formerly called Arum Virgini- cum, is a common aquatic plant, in shallow waters, from New York southward. The root-stock contains a considerable amount of starch. Peltate. Target-shaped, shield-like; attached by the middle, as the leaf of Tropazolum. Peltatifid. When a peltate leaf is sub-divided. Pelviform. Shallowly cup-shaped; basin-like. Penang Lawyers. See Licuala. Pencil Flower. The genus Stylosanthes. Pendulous. Drooping ; hanging down. Penicilla'ria. From penicillus, a pencil ; in allu- sion to the spikes. Nat. Ord. Graminacece. A genus of grasses now included under Pennisetum. Penicillate, Penicilliform. Resembling a camel's-hair pencil ; consisting of, or covered PEN with hairs, which are nearly parallel with each other. Sometimes marked with color, as if laid on in streaks with a camel's-hair pencil. Penniform. Having the ribs of a leaf arranged in a pinnated leaf, but confluent at the point as in the Date Palm. Penninerved, Penniveined. Having main veins or ribs, running straight from the margins, at equal distances. Pemiise'tum. From penna, a feather, and seta, a bristle ; referring to the long feathered bristles of the flower spikes. Nat. Ord. Graminacem. A small genus of grasses of no agricultural value, but affording one or two species that are highly prized in the ornamental garden, and for their uses as dried grasses in the various forms in which they are employed. One of the most beautiful species is Pennisetum longystylum, and for a low growing grass there is none more to be desired. The heads are cylindrical in form and their weight bends down their slender culms into every variety of the line of beauty ; the glumes and paleee are of delicate whiteness, and the styles so long and feathery that they resemble tassels of white chenille. It grows from two to three feet high and forms a very handsome clump. P. latifolium (syn. Gymnothrix latifolium), introduced from Montevideo in 1869, is also a very ornamental perennial species, with beautiful nodding spikes. It, as well as P. longystylum, should be taken up at the approach of winter and placed under cover. Pennyroyal. The common name of Mentha Pulegium. Pennyroyal. American. The popular name of Hedeoma pulegeoides. Pennyroyal. Bastard. Trichostema dichoto- mum. Pennyroyal. False. Isanthus cceruleus. Pennyroyal. Tree. Satureja viminea. Pennywort. Sibthorpea Europma; also Coty- ledon Umbilicus, and Linaria Cymbalaria. Penny wort. Marsh. Hydrocotyle vulgaris. Pennywort. Water. Hydrocotyle Americana. Pentade'sma. From pente, five, and desma, a bundle ; the stamens are disposed in bundles of five. Nat. Ord. GuttifercB. P. butryacea, the Butter and Tallow Tree of Sierra Leone, is a large tree, yielding in several parts, especially in the fruit, when cut, a yellow greasy juice, whence is derived its popular name. The leaves are large, leathery, beautifully marked with numerous parallel veins ; the flowers large and handsome, soli- tary and terminal. The fruits are said to be edible. It was introduced in 1822 and may be propagated by cuttings of the ripened wood. Pentape'ra. From pente, five, and pera, a bag ; referring to the five-celled ovary. P. sicula, the only described species, is a low, much- branched, Heath-like shrub, a native of Sicily, Cyprus, and Barca, distinguished from the true Heaths by its pentamerous flowers (which Sir Joseph Hooker points out is not a constant character), by its large sepals and pubescent ovary. The flowers are larger than those of the other European Heaths, and are pure white. AND GENEEAL HOETICULTUEE. 313 PEN Pentaptery'gium. From pente, five, and ptery- gion, a small wing. Nat. Ord. Vacciniaceae. A small genus of green-house shrubs.natives of the temperate Himalayas and the Khasia Mountains. The flowers are red, yellow, or white bedewed with red, rather large and showy. P. flavum, flowers yellow, margined with red ; P. rugosum, flowers nearly white, beautifully marbled with purple or bJood-red bands, and P. serpens, with bright red flowers, are the best known species, and are all neat and attractive plants. As they are naturally epiphytal in their habits, they can be grown in hanging-baskets or pots as desired, and are propagated by cuttings. Pentarha'phia. From pente, five, and raphis, a needle ; referring to the form of the open calyx. A genus of Gesneracece, composed of shrubby or half-shrubby plants inhabiting the West India Islands, a few being also found in Central America. Several species with bright red, or scarlet flowers are in cultivation. For culture, etc., see Gesnera. Pe'ntas. From pente, five ; referring to the number of petals and stamens. Nat. Ord. RubiacecB. P. carnea, the best known species, is a very handsome green-house plant with delicate flesh-colored flowers, copiously produced in dense corymbs or cymes. It is valuable, not only for the richness of its flowers, but also for the lengthened period during which they are produced, and although it requires a hot- house to flower freely in winter, yet it may be kept in a green-house, and will then bloom from April till the following October. Propa- gated by cuttings of young shoots in sandy soil in the hot-bed or green-house in spring ; the young plants will bloom freely during the summer. Introduced from South Africa in 1842. Pentla'ndia. Named after J. B. Pentland, an English consul-general in Peru. Nat. Ord. AmaryllidacecB. A small genus of very showy green-house bulbous plants from Peru. P. miniata, the most beautiful of the species, bears a solitary lanceolate leaf, appearing before the flowers, which are borne on a solid scape supporting an umbel of about half a dozen drooping ver- milion colored flowers. They flower in early autumn, and should rest during winter, in the same manner as the Amaryllis. They were first introduced in 1836, and are propa- gated by offsets. This genus is included under Urceolina by some authors. Pentste'mon. From pente, five, and stemon, a stamen; there are four perfect stamens and one imperfect. Nat. Ord. ScrophulariacecB. An extensive genus of hardy and half-hardy herbaceous plants. Several of the species are common from North Carolina to Florida. The more showy species, those usually cultivated, are natives of Texas, Oregon, Colorado, Eocky Mountains, etc., and Mexico. Those introduced into the garden are beautiful plants, growing from one to three feet high, with white, pink, scarlet, blue, or purple flowers, produced freely from April until October. Within the past few years great improvements have been made in the garden varieties or so-called hybrids of the Pent- stemon, by judicious selection of seminal varieties of P. Hartwegii, P. Cobcea, and P. PEP Genlianoides, which, though they possess a wide variation in color, lack the beautiful clear blue which we find in some of the spe- cies. Most of them grow well in a light loam. They should have as dry a situation as the garden affords, as they suffer more from wet than cold, and are the better of the protection of a cold frame during winter. Several of the Californian species, of late introduction, are very difficult to winter over in the border ; being found in a coarse, sandy soil, and their period of rest being the dry season, they seem little inclined to adapt themselves to our climate. The beauty and profusion of the flowers will, however, pay for the protec- tion they may need against the elements. Many of the species will flower the first season from seed, if sown in the green-house, or on an early hot-bed, and once transplanted before being transferred to the open border. The following species are all desirable : P. azureus, P. barbatus, P. campanulatus, P. Cobcea, P. diffusus, P. Fendleri, P. heterophyllus, P. Jaffrayanus, P. Murrayanus, P. procerus, P. Scouleri, etc. Peo'ny. See Pceonia. Pepero'mia. From piper, pepper, and omoios, similar. Nat. Ord. Piperaceoz. An extensive genus of green-house ever- green and herbaceous ornamental-leaved plants, abundant in Central and South America, the Sandwich Islands, southern Africa, and the East Indies. The majority are small creeping plants with fleshy leaves, growing on trunks of trees, or on damp rocks ; others are more erect, of a shrubby character, and are terrestrial in their habits. Several of the species have been introduced into the green-house for the sake of their foliage ; prominent among them is P. maculosa, a dwarf- growing species, with inconspicuous flowers, but very beautiful foliage. This species is readily increased by leaf cuttings, treated in the same manner as Begonia Rex. It is a native of St. Domingo. First introduced in 1790. P. resedceflora, or Mignonette flowered, introduced from New Grenada in 1870, bears small, spire-like spikes of white flowers at the apex of pink stems, the lower portions of which are furnished with small velvety leaves. It is used for button-hole bouquets, and is suitable for florists' work generally. P. brevi- pes (syn. P. prostrata), introduced in 1880, has round, thick, fleshy leaves, variegated with light and dark shades of green, and a brown- ish tinge. They are borne on long slender stems, which appear to the best advantage when pendulous, grow rapidly, and may be readily increased by pegging small portions of the stem down on the soil. It is admirably adapted for basket culture, well-grown speci- mens furnishing beautiful drooping sprays four to five feet long. Pepo. " A one-celled, many-seeded, inferior fruit, with parietal placentae, and a pulpy interior, as a Gourd." — Lindley. Pepper. See Piper. Pepper. Bird. Capsicum baccatum. Pepper-bush. Sweet. A common name for Clethra alnifolia. Peppergrass. See Lepidium. Pepperidge. See Nyssa. 314 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS PEP Peppermint. Mentha piperita. Pepper-root. See Dentaria. Pepper Shrub. See Schinus. Pepper Vine. A popular name of Ampelopsis bipinnata. Pepper. White, is Piper nigrum with the black husks removed. Pepperwort. See Lepidium. Peppermint-Tree. A common name for several species of Eucalyptus. Perennials. Plants which last for several years are termed Perennials. This term is most generally applied to hardy herbaceous plants of this character, when it is necessary to dis- tinguish between those which are perennials, and those which are of only annual or biennial duration. For a selection of which, see " Her- baceous Plants." Perennis. Lasting from year to year. Pere'skia. Barbadoes Gooseberry. Named after Nicholas F. Pieresk, a French patron of botany. The generic name is sometimes written Pier- escia. Nat. Ord. Cactacem. This genus consists of about a dozen species, and is allied to the Cactus. Some are tree- like and have woody stems, but they are mostly shrubs with fleshy stems, flat leaves, and round branches armed with tufts of spines, and bearing terminal solitary or clus- tered flowers, generally on short stalks. P. aculeata is indigenous in the West Indies, where it is commonly known as the Barbadoes Gooseberry or Gooseberry Shrub. It grows about fifteen feet high, the stem armed with bundles of straight spines, and having trailing branches bearing oblong, elliptical leaves and clusters of beautiful white flowers, and yellow, eatable, and pleasant-tasted fruit, which is used in making preserves, in the same man- ner as the common garden Gooseberry is used. This species is an excellent subject to graft Epiphyllums, etc., on, and is much used for that purpose. P. Bleo is called Bleo by the natives of New Grenada, where it is indigen- ous. It is a shrub growing eight or ten feet high, with rather soft, fleshy leaves, five or six inches long, of an elliptical form, sharp pointed at the top, and tapering to the base. It bears handsome rose-colored flowers, with ten petals in two series, the inner of which are the largest and deepest colored. The leaves are eaten as a salad in Panama. Propagated by cuttings. Perfect. Complete in all the usual parts. Perfoliate. When the two basal lobes of an amplexicaul leaf are united together, the leaf completely surrounding the stem, so that the stem seems to pass through the leaf, as in Eupatorium perfoliaturn (Boneset). Perforate. Pierced with holes, or with trans- parent dots resembling holes, as an Orange leaf. Pergula'ria. From pergula, trellis-work ; refer- ring to its quick climbing growth. Nat. Ord. Asckpiadaceai. A small genus of green-house evergreen climbers, allied to Stephanotis. Some of the species are remarkable for their sweet-scented greenish white flowers. They are natives of the East Indies and Java, but are very little cultivated. PER Perianth. The calyx and corolla combined ; that is to say, when they look so much alike that they cannot be readily distinguished, as in a Hyacinth. Pericarp. The shell or rind of all fruits taken as a whole. When it separates into layers, each layer may have a different name, but the whole is still the pericarp. Fericladium. The sheathing base of a leaf when it expands and surrounds the supporting branch ; the dilated, sheathing base of some petioles, especially among Umbellifers. Periclinium. The involucre of the flower-heads of Composites. Periderm, Peridermis. The outer cellular layer of bark below the epidermis. Perigynous. Growing upon some part which surrounds the ovary, usually the calyx, though sometimes the corolla is also included within the meaning. Peri'lla. Derivation of name unknown. Nat. Ord. habiatm. A small genus of hardy annuals, natives of China and East Indies. P. ocymoides crispa (syn. P. Nankinensis ) has deep purple leaves, and at one time was much used as an orna- mental border plant, but from its somewhat weedy appearance and wonderful productive- ness, it has been pretty generally discarded. Periplo'ca. From periploke, an intertwining; referring to the habit of the plant. Nat. Ord. Asclepiadacem. A small genus of hardy deciduous and green-house evergreen twiners, inhabiting southern Europe, Asia, and Africa. P. Gr&ca, an ornamental species, has long been known in cultivation, and is very common in the hedge-rows of southern Europe. It has purplish flowers, arranged in axillary clusters. The juice of this species is exceedingly poisonous, and is used in the East for destroying wolves. Propagated by layers or cuttings. Peri'ptera. From periptera, a shuttlecock; al- luding to the resemblance in the form of the flower. Nat. Ord. Malvaceaz. M. punicea is a pretty little shrub with crimson flowers, introduced from Spain in 1814. It grows freely in a compost of loam and peat, and is propagated by cuttings or seeds. Periste'ria. From peristera, a dove ; in allusion to the dove-like appearance of the column. Nat. Ord. Orchidacem. A small genus of splendid terrestrial Or- chids. The best known and most beautiful of the species is P. elata, a native of Panama, where it is known as El Spirito Santo, the Holy Ghost Plant ; the reason of this name is obvious on looking at the flower ; the central member exhibits a column, which, with its summit and the projecting gland of the pollen masses, together with the erect wings, bears a very striking resemblance to the figure of a dove ; hence the English name of Dove Flower. Its flower stem rises from the base of the pseudo-bulbs, and attains a height of from four to six feet, its upper portion, for about one-third of the length, being covered with nearly round, very sweet-scented flowers, each about an inch and a half across, and of a creamy white, with small lilac specks on the AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 315 PER base of the lip. They should be grown in ■well-drained pots of light, rich, fibrous loam, with a liberal mixture of fine sand and broken charcoal. They succeed well in an ordinary green-house, but are impatient of much water, particularly when at rest. They flower during the summer months, and remain in bloom several weeks. It is propagated by division, and was introduced in 1826. Peristro'phe. From peristrophe, turning round, in reference to the corolla, which is twisted so as to be upside down. Nat. Ord. Acan- thacecB. A small genus of green-house herbaceous plants, natives of India, with small purple flowers produced in winter, and continuing in full beauty for several weeks. P. angustifolia variegata, an ornamental plant, with foliage variegated with yellowish-white and green ; it is a very useful plant in window gardening or rustic work, and is propagated readily by cut- tings. Peri'toma. From peritome, a cutting round about ; referring to the base of the calyx. Nat. Ord. Capparidacece. A small genus of hardy annual herbs now included by Bentham and Hooker under Cleome. P. aurea is the only species of inter- est. Peri-winkle. See Vinca. Perne'ttya. Named after Don Pernetty, author of " A Voyage to the Falkland Islands." Nat. Ord. Ericacem. A genus of half-hardy evergreen, white flowering shrubs, natives of Mexico and Peru. They are not sufficiently hardy to endure our winter without protection, and have no merits that entitle them to a place in the green-house. Perono'spora. A genus of minute Fungi, all growing in, or upon living plants. The species that has done most harm and is most to be dreaded is the Potato disease Fungus, P. infes- tans, known also as Phytophthora infestans. There are many other species that attack various vegetables such as Parsley, Carrots, Turnips, Cabbages, Peas, Spinach, etc., and are frequently most injurious to these plants. As it is now well understood that these Fungi live inside the host-plants, and that it is impossible to destroy the parasite without destroying the plant, all efforts should be directed against the spread of the disease, since a cure of the diseased plant is practi- cally hopeless. All diseased plants are liable to communicate the disease to healthy plants and should, if possible, be burned, that being the only certain means of preventing the spread of the disease. Perse'a. Alligator or Avocado Pear. A name applied by Theophrastus to an Egyptian tree. Nat. Ord. Lauracem. The Alligator Pear, a native of the West Indies, grows upon a tree about the size of the Apple-tree. The tree has oblong, veiny leaves, and yellowish-green flowers. The fruit, which is the size of a large Pear, is considered by the natives one of the most delicious in the world, though strangers do not at first relish it. It contains a large quantity of firm pulp, possessing a buttery or marrow-like taste, and is therefore frequently called Vegetable Marrow or Midshipman's Butter. It is usually eaten with spice, lime-juice, or pepper and PET salt. The trees cannot be induced to grow excepting in tropical or sub-tropical countries. Persian Powder. A valuable insecticide manu- factured from the flowers of Pyrethrum roseum and other species. Pe'rsica. The Peach. So named from Persia, its supposed native country. Nat. Ord. Rosacem. A small genus now included by Bentham and Hooker under Primus. P. vulgaris and its variety P. V. losvis are well known and much esteemed fruits; for culture and descrip- tion of which, see Peach and Nectarine. Persica'ria. A common name for Polygonum Persicaria. Persimmon. See Diospyros Virginiana. Persimmon. Japanese. See Diospyros Kaki. Persistent. Remaining beyond the period when such parts commonly fall, as the leaves of evergreens, and the calyx, etc., of such flowers as remain during the growth of the fruit. Personate. Masked ; a bilabiate corolla, with a projection or palate in the throat, as of the Snapdragon. Ferso'onia. Named after C. H. Persoon, author " Synopsis Plantarum " and other botanical works. An extensive genus of Proteacece, com- prising some sixty species of green-house ornamental shrubs found in most parts of Australia. One species, P. Toro, a lofty tree, is found in New Zealand. A number of species are in cultivation, and are admir- able for large conservatories. They are propagated by cuttings of the ripened shoots. Pertuse. Having slits or holes. Peru. Balsam of. Myroxylon Peruiferum. Peru. Marvel of. See Mirabilis Jalapa. Peruvian Bark. See Cinchona. Peruvian Daffodil. A common name for Hymen- ocallis (Ismene) Calathina. Pes. The Latin for the foot or stalk ; as in com- pounds, Brevipes, short-stalked ; Longipes, long-stalked, etc. Pescato'rea. A genus of Orchids now included under Zygopetalum. Fetaloste'mon. Prairie Clover. From petalon, a petal, and stemon, a stamen, referring to the peculiar union of these organs in this genus. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. A genus of hardy or half-hardy perennial herbs closely allied to Dalea, natives of the southern United States. The flowers are rose- colored, purplish violet, or white. P. candidus, and P. violaceus are both good subjects for the herbaceous border. Petaloid. Similar to a petal in color and texture. Petals. The division of the corolla, or flower when they are not united to each other by their edges. Petasi'tes. From petasos, an umbrella ; alluding to the size of the foliage. A genus of Com- posite, natives of Europe, Asia and North America. Many of the species formerly included under Tussilago, have now been referred to this genus. They are principally coarse-growing weeds though some of the species being very early flowering are worth 316 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS PET cultivation. P. vulgaris is the Bog Rhubarb, or Butter Bur. Petiole. The foot-stalk of a leaf. Petiole. Common. The first and principal leaf-stalk in compound leaves. Petive'ria. Named after James Petiver, a dis- tinguished botanist of London, 1665-1718. Nat. Ord. Phytolacacem. P. Alliacea, or Guinea Hen Weed, the only cultivated species, is an ornamental, slender, erect green-house plant, with an onion-like smell. It is found from Mexico to Brazil, and is seldom seen in cultivation. Petrae'a. Linnaeus dedicated this genus to Robert James, Lord Petre, a celebrated patron of botany, who died in 1742. Nat. Ord. Verben- acecB. A genus of twining shrubs or small trees, natives of Mexico and South America. P. volubilis and some of the other species are very beautiful flowering climbers. The flowers are large, of a deep violet color, and pro- duced in graceful racemes, and are increased by cuttings in spring. They were first intro- duced in 1834. Petraeus, Petrosus. Growing in rocky or stony places. Petro'bium. From petros, a rock, and bio, to live, alluding to the habitat of the species. Nat. Ord. Compositce. P. arboreum, the only described species, is an ornamental green-house shrub with yellow flowers. Introduced from St. Helena in 1816, it succeeds well in sandy loam, and is readily increased by cuttings. Petroca'llis. From petros, a rock, and kalos, beautiful; the plant adorns the rocks on which it grows. Nat. Ord. Cruciferce. P. Pyrenaica, the only species, is a pretty little tufted plant, peculiar to Alpine places in the Pyrenees, and growing in dense patches, like many of the Saxifragas. The stems, an inch or two high, are densely clothed with wedge-shaped, lobed leaves, and terminate in a raceme of rather large, purplish flowers, which are followed by small, oval, swollen, two-celled seed-pods. It is a very interesting plant for a rockery, but must be given but lit- tle soil and the most complete drainage. Syn. Draba. Petroco'smea Sinensis. A new genus of Ges- neracem, of which the present species is the only one so far described. It is a beautiful little plant with violet or blue flowers and resembling a Violet in habit. It was found by Dr. Henry (1888) growing on the surface of a rock in the bottom of a small cave near Ichang (China) with the leaves closely pressed against the rock. Petro'pbila. From petros, a rock, and phileo, to love ; in allusion to the place of growth. Nat. Ord. Proteacece. A genus of about twenty-five species of green-house shrubs, natives of Australia, with white or yellow flowers in dense, termi- nal spikes or cones. They are seldom culti- vated except in large conservatories. Petroseli'num. A synonym for Apivm Petroseli- num, which see. Pettigree, or Pettigrue. A common name for Ruscus aeuleatus. PET Fettiwhin. A popular name for Genista Anglica and Ononis arvensis. Petu'nga. Peetunga is the name of P. Rox- burghii in Bengal. Nat. Ord. Rubiacew. A small genus of ornamental plant-stove shrubs, natives of eastern Bengal, the Malay Peninsula and the Indian Archipelago. P. Roxburghii, the only cultivated species, is a very ornamental plant, with white flowers ; easily increased by cuttings in heat. Petu'nia. From petun, Brazilian name for tobacco, to which the Petunia is allied. Nat. Ord. Solanacece. A small genus of half-hardy herbaceous per- ennials, all natives of South America, and mostly confined to Brazil. Though coming from a tropical country, where they are strictly perennial, they may be grown as hardy annuals. In the whole range of what are called " bedding plants," there is not an individual that can be said to exceed in gen- eral usefulness the Petunia. They are of the easiest culture, seeding themselves when once planted, growing in any soil that will sustain plant life, and producing the most showy flowers in the greatest profusion. Few, if any, plants have come so rapidly into popular favor, or have been so much improved t»y hybridization and cultivation. Only a few years ago they were comparatively unknown, and now there is not a garden, either large or small, where they are not grown ; nor are they confined to the garden, as the windows of the workshop and the humble tenement so cheer- ily testify. P. nyctaginiflora, the common White Petunia, was first introduced into Eng- land from Brazil in 1823. It was but little culti- vated, and only in the green-houses as a peren- nial, until 1830. At this period P. violacea or P. Phoenicia, as it is sometimes called, was intro- duced from Buenos Ayres by a Mr. Tweedie, a botanical collector, who sent seeds of it to the Botanic Garden at Glasgow. It was soon found that it would propagate freely from seed, and in a short time it became widely disseminated. It was figured and sent out first as Salpiglossis integrifolia and Nierem- bergia Phoenicia. From these two species all our garden varieties have been produced. To Isaac Buchanan, of New York, belongs the credit of having first hybridized these species, the result being the magnificent blotched and striped varieties now so extensively culti- vated. His first effort was crowned with the most complete success, the hybrids being as perfectly and distinctly marked as any since produced. These were for a number of years offered in seedsmen's catalogues as "Bucha- nan's Hybrids." Many other splendid sorts have been produced in this country, and among them the "Fringed Petunia," from which the Germans have succeeded in getting a double variety, finely fringed. Many double varieties are now sent out each season, claim- ing special merit. They are well adapted for green-house culture, but for massing or ex- tended borders, the best marked single varie- ties are far superior, because they produce their flowers in greater abundance. Where a mass of any particular color is desired, it is better to strike cuttings of the favorite kinds in the fall. For the mixed border, the seeds may be sown where wanted to grow ; or, if wanted to flower early, seed may be sown in FHAI-ENOPSIS SCHIIXEBIANA. PHLOX DBUMMONDI (LARGE FLOWERING). PH.EDRANASSA CHLORACEA. PENTSTEMON. PHLEUM PRATENSE (TIMOTHT GRASS). PHLOX DRITMMONDI (DOUBLE WHITE). 3>: AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 317 PEU the green-house or in a hot-bed, and trans- planted into the border. If the soil is rich, the plants should be set three feet apart each way. A peculiarity of the blotched varieties, particularly among the double ones, is that, when propagated from cuttings for a few years, the tendency is to run back to the dark color, all white markings being obliterated. Plants from cuttings will flower from June until after they have had several degrees of frost. Peuce'danum. The old Greek name used by Hippocrates. Nat. Ord. Umbelliferoe. A large genus of perennial, rarely annual, herbs, or shrubs, dispersed over the Northern Hemisphere, the Andes of tropical America, and tropical and southern Africa. The species are of little horticultural value. Pastinaca sativa, the Parsnip, is by some authors placed under this genus. Peu'mus. Said to be the native name in Chili. Nat. Ord. Monimiacem. P. Boldus, the only described species, is a small evergreen, fragrant green-house shrub, bearing its terminal cymes of white flowers in May. The leaves are used in medicine, the fruit is edible, and the bark is used in tanning. Peyrou'sia. A synonym of Lapeyrousia, which see. Pfa'ffia. Named in honor of C. H. Pfaff, Profes- sor of Chemistry at Kiel, 1774-1852. Nat. Ord. AmaranthacecB. A genus of erect, slender, plant-stove herbs, natives of Brazil. P. Gnaphaloides, the only introduced species, has white flowers, borne in dense spikes or heads. It is seldom met with in cultivation. Syn. Celosia. Pha'ca. Bastard Vetch. From phago, to eat ; a name adopted by Dioscorides. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A. genus of showy, hardy, herbaceous, per- ennial plants, suitable for the front of shrub- bery borders. Their flowers are of many shades of white, yellow, rose, or purple. The species are common throughout the States. This genus is now included by Bentham and Hooker under Astragalus. Phace'lia. From phakelos, a bundle ; in refer- ence to the disposition of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Hydrophyllacem. Very curious plants, which produce their flowers in one-sided fascicles, which unroll themselves slowly The flowers are rather pretty in themselves, but are half-hidden by their bracts and coarse-growing leaves. Some of the species are perennials, and others bien- nial or annual. The Californian species are annuals with blue flowers, but the South American kinds are biennials or perennials with pink flowers. Syn. Cosmanthus. Phaedrana'ssa. Queen Lily. From phaidros, . gay, and anassa, queen. Nat. Ord. Amarylli- dacem. A small genus of bulbs, natives of Peru and Quito. They are found at an elevation of 9,000 feet above the sea, growing among the rocks, where there is not, seemingly, suffi- cient earth to sustain vegetable life. They are handsome, though not very showy plants. The flowers are about two inches long, in the form of a slender tube, of a light pea-green color, tipped with pink. The bulbs require a long season of rest after flowering, which is PHA usually in winter. They are easily grown in a cool green-house with the most ordinary care, and are increased by offsets. Intro- duced in 1844. Phasnoco'ma. From phaino, to shine, and home, hair ; referring to the color and nature of the involucre. Nat. Ord. Composite. P. prolifera, the only species, is an exceed- ingly handsome, small, hard-wooded, ever- green shrub, which has a most interesting and peculiar hoary appearance at all seasons of the year. The plant commences to produce its bright pink, everlasting blossoms when in a small state, and remains in full beauty for nearly three months. It is a great favorite in Europe in all collections of hard-wooded plants, but, though many attempts have been made, we are not aware that it has been suc- cessfully imported to this country. It is a native of the Cape of Good Hope, and was introduced in 1789. Syn. Elichrysum and Xeranthemum proliferum. Fhseno'gamous. A term applied to such plants as are visibly furnished with sexual organs. Phaenospe'rma. From phaino, to shine, and sperma, a seed ; alluding to the glistening seeds. Nat. Ord. Graminaceaz. P. globosum, introduced from China in 1874, is the only described species. It is a tall, hardy, ornamental grass, easily increased by seeds sown in spring. Phai'us, From phaios, shining; in allusion to the beauty of the original species. Nat. Ord. OrchidacecB. An interesting genus of Orchids, generally terrestrial natives of tropical Africa, Aus- tralia, the Pacific Islands, China and Japan. The species are free-flowering and are of easy management. They thrive best in a compost of turfy loam, leaf-mould and well rotted cow dung ; plenty of heat and moisture are essential during the growing season, but in winter, or when at rest, they should be kept in a low temperature, such as that of the green-house, and while there should be nearly dry. In early spring re-pot them, and replace them in the hot-house, where they soon grow and ultimately flower. P. Wallichii, P. Bensonaz (syn. Thunia), P. albus (syn. Thunia) and P. grandifolius, are all desir- able species, and should be in every collection. The latter is often grown under the name of Bletia TankervillioB. See Orchids. Fhalaeno'psis. Moth Orchid. Sometimes called the East Indian Butterfly Orchid. From phalaina, a moth, and opsis, like ; in allusion to the appearance of the flowers, which bear a striking resemblance to that insect ; whence the common name. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. The various species of Phalwnopsis are prized by growers as among the most beauti- ful of cultivated Orchids. The flowers, which are nearly circular in outline and about two inches and a half in diameter, vary from pure white to a beautiful rose-color, the central portion being marked with delicate streaks of crimson ; the sepals and petals are thick and leathery, and, as the name implies, a fancied resemblance may be traced between the flow- ers of this plant and a large white moth. In culture the species requires a very high tem- perature ; it should be grown in the hottest 318 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS PHA part of the hot-house, with an abundant sup- ply of moisture, especially in the form of vapor, while in an active state ; but at other times the quantity of each should be mod- erately reduced. In summer, when the plant is growing, the thermometer should range between 70° and 90?, when it will grow rap- idly, and consequently flower in perfection. It may be regarded as a very liberal bloomer. The genus consists of over twenty species, a number of which are of recent introduction. They are all natives of the islands of the Indian Archipelago, and the eastern provinces of India, and were first introduced in 1836. P. amabilis, P. Esmeralda, P. Luddemannia, P. Schilleriana, and P. Stuartiana, are well known and superior species. See Orchids. Phala'ngium. A synonym of Anthericum, St. Bruno's Lily. Pha'laris. Canary Grass. From phalaros, shining ; referring to the shining seeds. Nat. Ord. GraminacecB. A small genus of Grasses, mostly natives of Central Asia. P. Canariensis produces the Canary seed of commerce. Gardener's Garters is a beautiful, variegated variety of P. arund- inacea very common in English gardens, and has been long introduced here. It is an excellent plant for shrubberies and is propa- gated by division. Phale'ria. From phalaros, shining white ; alluding to the color of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Thymeleaceee. A genus of green-house trees or shrubs, natives of Australia, the Malayan Archipelago and Ceylon. P. lawrifolia, the only species in cultivation, has beautiful white flowers, remarkable for their delicious Daphne-like fragrance. It was introduced from Ceylon in 1869, and is propagated by seeds or cuttings. Fhaloca'llis. From phalos, a cone, and kallos, beautiful ; beautifully cone-crested. Nat. Ord. Tridaceas. P. plumbea. the only known species, is a half-hardy Mexican bulb, producing singular lead colored flowers, tinged with yellow in the centre, about three inches across, lasting only a few hours. They expand before sunrise and close before noon. This was formerly in- cluded in the genus Cypella, but was separated by Dean Herbert. It requires the same treat- ment and care as the Tigridia, and is in- creased by offsets. Introduced in 1837. Phanerogamous. The same as Phsenogamous, which see. Pharbi'tis. One of the divisions of the genus Ipomoza. Pha'rus. From pharos, el covering ; the leaves are used for thatching and other purposes. Nat. Ord. Graminaceai. A genus of ornamental grasses natives of tropical America, from Brazil to Mexico, and Florida. P. latifolius, introduced from Jamaica in 1796, is a showy species requiring the same treatment as the stove species of Bambusa. A finely variegated form, P. I. vittatus, the foliage banded with white and flushed with rose, is in cultivation. Pha'seolus. Kidney Bean. From phaselus, a little boat ; fancied resemblance of the pods. Nat. Ord. Legvminosa. This genus contains a few ornamental plants, the remainder being agricultural or PHI culinary vegetables. Of the former, P. Cara- calla is the most remarkable, on account of its singularly twisted vexillum and keel, the appearance of which has induced the popular name, Snail Flower. It is a climber and may be grown out of doors in summer and in the green-house in winter. It is propagated by cuttings and from seed. The seed should be sown in spring in the green-house, with a slight bottom heat, and afterwards the plants may be placed in the borders of the house where they are to bloom, or they may be grown in pots. Its flowers are bluish lilac, and are valued by florists for their delicious fragrance and for their resemblance to Orchids. There are several other ornamental green- house kinds requiring the same treatment. P. lunatus is the origin of the well known Lima and Sieva pole Beans. A new dwarf variety of the latter, "Henderson's Bush Lima," has been lately introduced (1889), and will prove most acceptable to many. It grows about eighteen inches in height (thus doing away with the unsightly bean poles in the garden) and produces enormous crops that can be gath- ered as easily as the common garden Bush Beans. It is at least two weeks earlier than any of the climbing sorts ; the beans are of the size of the Sieva or Small Lima, and of that deli- cious quality that has made the Southern Limas so famous. Like all Limas it is very tender and should not be planted until end of May in the latitude of New York. South of Richmond, however, two crops a year may be readily obtained, the first crop ripening in time to allow of a second planting for the fall months. P. multiflorus, the common Scarlet Runner of our gardens, is a native of Mexico and South America. There is a variety with white flow- ers. They are very showy when in flower, independent of their value as " String Beans." P. vulgaris, is our common Kidney or String- Bean, the origin of which is very uncertain. Pheasant's Eye. A common name for Adonis aestivalis, A. autumnalis; also for Dianthus plum- arius. Pheba'lium. From Phibale, a myrtle ; alluding to the appearance of the species. Nat. Ord. Rutaceai. A genus of nearly thirty species of green- house shrubs, natives of Australia and New Zealand. P. Billardieri, P. squamulosum, and one or two other species are in cultivation and are showy ornamental plants, growing freely in a compost of sandy peat and loam, and are increased by cuttings of the young wood. Phego'pteris. A genus of Ferns, now included under Polypodium. Phe'llodendron. P. amurense, is a small hardy tree from northeastern Asia, commonly called Chinese Cork Tree. It is a medium sized tree, pyramidal in form, and in general appearance not unlike the Ailantus. Its foliage is bright red in autumn, and remains very late on the tree. Philabe'rtia. Named in honor of J. C. Philibert, author of some works on elementary botany. Nat. Ord. Asclepiadacem. A genus of interesting climbing shrubby plants, natives of tropical and sub -tropical America. P. grandiflora, introduced from Buenos Ayres in 1836, has yellow and white AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 319 PHI flowers, and is an interesting plant for the green-house or for planting out in summer. Philadelphia'ceae. A natural order now in- cluded under Saxifragacece. Philade'lphus. Syringa or Mock Orange. An ancient name applied by Linnaeus for no obvious reason. Nat. Ord. Saxifragacece. A genus of about twelve species of orna- mental shrubs, natives of central Europe and North America, Japan, and the Himalayan mountains, the flowers of which smell like those of the orange, and the leaves taste like Cucumbers. It is rather remarkable that one of the English names of these plants is Sy- ringa, which is the botanieal name of the Lilac, to which they have not the slightest affinity. There are many species, some of which have very large and handsome flowers, and some bear flowers without any fragrance. They are all quite hardy, and may be propagated by seeds, layers, cuttings, or division. The species are common in the mountains of Vir- ginia and southward. Pnilage'ria Veitchii. A combination of parts of the generic names of the two parents. Nat. Ord. LiliacecB. A hybrid between Lapageria rosea and Phil- esia Buxifolia, raised by the Messrs. Veitch, of England. See Philesia. Phile'sia. From philesios, lovely. Nat. Ord. LiliacecB. P. Buxifolia is the only species of this genus. It is a dwarf shrub, native of the extreme southern part of South America, being found from Valdivia to the Straits of Magellan. It is an evergreen with small leaves, and large, bell-shaped, drooping flowers, of a beautiful bright red color. It is allied to Lapageria rosea, from the same region. Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Son, of Chelsea, Eng., succeeded in raising a hybrid between the two plants, which has been named Philageria Veitchii. It is proper to state that the plant is inferior, in point of beauty, to either parent. We do not know of its introduction to this country. It would do well out of doors in the Southern States, or in the green-house, north. Philesia'ceae. A natural order, now included under Liliacem. Philly'rea. Jasmine Box, Mock Privet. From Philyra, the old Greek name used by Theo- phrastus, for the Privet. Nat. Ord. Oleacece. A small genus of ornamental, compact-grow- ing, hardy, evergreen shrubs, natives of the Mediterranean region and the Orient. P. decora, better known under the name of P. Vilmoriniana, and P. laurifolia, the most hardy of the genus, is a strikingly handsome shrub, with bright-green, coriaceous leaves and axillary clusters of white flowers, which are followed in the autumn by Olive-shaped, reddish-purple fruit. It is a late introduction (1885) from the shores of the Black Sea, and in common with the rest of the genus, is most valuable for its adaptation to sea-side plant- ing, and it is specially recommended for plant- ing in cities, as smoke and dust do not affect it seriously. Philode'ndron. From phileo, to love, and den- dron, a tree ; referring to the habit of the plants of this genus to overrun trees in the South American forests. Nat. Ord. Aroidece. PHO A singular genus of South American tropical plants, mostly with scrambling stems, which attach themselves to the trunks of trees, whence the name of the genus. They are all green-house evergreen perennials, with large, irregular, singular leaves, and showy flowers, some of which are pure white, others white and bright rose. They were introduced in 1835, and are propagated by cuttings of the side shoots, and from seeds. See Monstera. Phinae'a. An Anagram of Niphma, to which this genus is closely allied. A genus of Gesnera- ceaz, comprising a few species of dwarf, villous stove-plants, with the habit of Niphcea (under which they have until recently been included), natives of Columbia. The flowers are white or pale lilac ; borne on axillary, umbellate peduncles. Introduced in 1845. Phlebo'dium. From phleps, a vein. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacem. A genus of net- veined Ferns, separated from Polypodium. P. aureum, typical of the genus, is a bold, glaucous-tinted Fern, with strong, rhizomes, which run upon the surface. It is a handsome species, and will grow luxuriantly in a cool green-house. It is increased by division or from spores. The species have long been under cultivation. Phle'um. Supposed to be the Greek name for Typha. Nat. Ord. Graminacem. A small genus of grasses. P. pratense is the well-known Timothy, or Herds Grass, of New England ; it is also known as Cat's-tail Grass. Phlogaca'nthus. From phlox, phlogos, flame, and acanthus, the type of this family ; in allusion to the long spike of yellow or flame-colored flowers. Nat. Ord. Acanthacem. A genus of East Indian green-house ever- green shrubs, allied to Justicia, and from which genus a few species have been sepa- rated. They are all ornamental winter-bloom- ing plants, with bright orange or yellow flowers. They are increased in the same manner as the Justicia, and require the same general treatment. Fhlo'mis. Jerusalem Sage. The old Greek name used by Dioscorides. Nat. Ord. Labi- atm. A genus of herbaceous perennial, and shrubby plants, ranking amongst the finest of hardy plants belonging to the Sage family. There are about a dozen species and varieties of the genus in cultivation, and amongst them a great diversity of size and habit. Some, such as P. fruticosa, are shrubs, others are noble herbaceous plants, while others, again, such as P. Armeniaca, are sufficiently alpine in character to allow of their being grown in the rock-garden. They are natives principally of the mountainous regions of temperate Asia and southern Europe ; the shrubby species are increased by seeds or cuttings, and the herbaceous kinds by division. The most desirable of the shrubby species is P. fruti- cosa, with rich yellow flowers, very attractive during June, July and August. Of the her- baceous kinds the best is P. Herba-venti, rich purplish violet, P. purpurea, purple, P. tuberosa, purple, and P. Russeliana, and P. Samia, with yellow flowers. Phoraden'dron. From phor, a thief, and den- dron, a tree ; because these plants steal their 320 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OP PLANTS PHL food from the trees they grow upon. Nat. Ord. Loranthacece. A genus of shrubby plants with coriaceous greenish foliage and small, white, pulpy, one- seeded berries. P. flavescens, the American Mistletoe, found parasitic on various decid- uous-leaved trees from New Jersey to Illinois southward and westward, has in many instances proved destructive to the forest trees upon which it fastens itself, more especially to the Elms, Hickories, and Wild Cherries. Though not so ornamental as the English Mistletoe, it is largely used as a sub- stitute for it during the holidays. Phlox. From phlox, a flame ; in reference to the brilliancy of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Pole- moniacecB. This extensive and interesting genus is ex- clusively North American, and contains many of our most valuable hardy herbaceous peren- nials, and one invaluable hardy annual. What are commonly termed Perennial Phloxes are seedlings, varieties from P. paniculata, which is common from Pennsylvania to Illinois and southward. Of this species there are several varieties, all of the same general character, producing immense terminal clusters of white, pink, purple, and crimson flowers. From this species and from P. maculata, a lower growing species, common in the Middle and Western States, have originated the many rare and beautiful varieties that are now attracting such universal attention. The hybridizing of this class has chiefly been done by European florists ; a pleasant and profit- able work that should not have passed out of our own hands, and would not but for the too common error, that plants, as well as all other commodities, to be truly valuable, must be stamped with a foreign seal. It is claimed by some of the foreign horticulturists that the finer hybrids are crosses between the annual and perennial species, and the brilliant color so characteristic of them gives some credence to the assertion. Many of the species have long been cultivated, and regarded as the most valuable plants for the border. A few of the more valuable are worthy of special mention. P. subulata, Moss Pink or Ground Pink, is a beautiful dwarf-growing species, rarely exceeding six inches in height, and grow- ing in dense tufts, and producing its pink, purple, or white flowers, which usually have a dark centre, in great profusion in early spring. This species is very common from New York to Michigan and southward. P. reptans, or stolonif 'era, is another dwarf species, of a rambling habit, with neat foliage and numerous clusters of bright crimson flowers. It is one of our most showy early spring flow- ering plants, blooming early in May. The flowers are nearly as large as the late, tall- growing species. P. divaricata, produces blu- ish-lilac flowers from April to June, and grows about the same height as the former species. This species is found in moist, rocky woods in the Middle States, north and west. P. pilosa grows about one foot high, and pro- duces its lovely pink flowers in May and June. P. Drummondii, the only annual species, is a native of Texas, where it was discovered in 1835 by Mr. Drummond, a botanical collector sent out by the Glasgow (Scotland) Botanical Society. The seeds of this were sent home, and soon after the discoverer fell a victim to PH(E the fever in Cuba, and died. For this reason Sir W. J. Hooker named the plant Phlox Drummondii, that it might " serve as a fre- quent memento of its unfortunate discov- erer." There can be no stronger proof of the value and beauty of this species than the extent to which it is grown. Each year new varieties are added to the list, and, thus far, each year shows a marked improvement over the past, both in size and color of the flower, and in their extraordinary markings and variations. The varieties now include white, pink, rose, purple, and scarlet colors, and a near approach to yellow. Some of the scar- lets have pure white eyes, and many of the others have the same distinctive marking. The only treatment required for this species is to sow the seed in early spring, where the plants are wanted to grow ; and for perfection of flower the plants should be thinned out to one foot apart each way. They may also be started in the green-house or in a hot-bed, and pricked out in pots and boxes, and earlier flowers thus secured. The perennial species are increased by cuttings or by divis- ion of roots in spring. They should in no case be allowed to stand undivided more than three years, and they produce larger and finer flowers if separated every spring. Phceniceus. Deep red, with an admixture of scarlet or carmine. Phoenicopho'rium. From Phaunix, date, and phoreo, to bear. Nat. Ord. Palmacem. A genus of rare and beautiful Palms, natives of the Seychelles Islands. P. Seychellarum, the only representative of the genus, was formerly called Stevensonia grandifolia. It is a stemless species, from whose base spring numerous leaves with copper-colored stalks studded with black spines. The blade of the leaf is wedge-shaped, and of a bronzy hue. The young leaves are of a rich cinnamon- brown color. This Palm is now cultivated for decorative purposes, and is one of the hand- somest and most admired plants for that purpose. Young plants are obtained from seed. Phce'nix. Date Palm. The Greek name of the Date. Nat. Ord. PalmacecB. This genus, though not extensive, is one of the most interesting of the order. The spe- cies are chiefly confined to northern Africa and tropical Asia. Some of the species are dwarf-growing, but they mostly attain the height of from fifty to sixty feet. ' ' The Date Palm, P. dactylifera, is cultivated in immense quantities all over the northern parts of Africa, and more sparingly in western Asia and southern Europe ; and in some of these countries its fruit, though only known by us as a preserved fruit, affords the principal food of a large proportion of. the inhabitants, and likewise of the various domestic animals, dogs, horses, and camels being alike partial to it. The tree usually grows about sixty or eighty feet high, and lives to a great age, trees of from one to two hundred years old continuing to produce their annual crop of Dates. The fruit, however, is not the only valuable part of this widely dispersed tree; for, as with the Cocoanut tree, nearly every part is applied to some useful purpose. The huts of the poorer classes are entirely con- structed of its leaves ; the fibre surrounding AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 321 PHO the bases of their stalks is used for making ropes and coarse cloth, the stalks themselves for crates, baskets, brooms, walking-sticks, etc., and the wood for building substantial houses; the heart of the young leaves is eaten as a vegetable ; the sap affords an in- toxicating beverage, though to obtain it the tree is destroyed; and even the hard and apparently useless pits or seeds are ground into food for camels." This tree is very inter- esting to botanists, because it was the first that drew their attention to the sexes of plants. It is a dioecious tree, that is, the male flowers are on one plant and the female, or fruiting ones, on another. The male flowers are considerably larger than the female ; and the latter, instead of stamens, have in the centre the rudiments of the Dates, about the size of small Peas. The two distinct sexes of the Date tree appear to have been known from the remotest antiquity, as they are noticed by all the ancients who describe the tree. It is not a little remark- able that there is a difference in the fructifi- cation of the wild Date and the cultivated, though both are precisely the same species. Wild Dates impregnate themselves, but the cultivated ones do not without the assistance of art. Theophrastus and Pliny mention this fact ; and in every plantation of Dates one part of the labor of the cultivator consists in collecting the flowers of the male Date, climb- ing to the top of the female with them, and dispersing the pollen on the germs of the Dates. So essential is this operation, that though the male and female trees are grown in the same plantation, the crop fails if it be not performed. These trees do not succeed well where the mean temperature falls below 80p ; hence, they require the warmest of our hot-houses. Young plants may be grown from the seeds taken from the Dates sold in the fruit stores. Fholido'ta. Rattlesnake Orchid. From pholis, a scale, and ous, otos, an ear ; flowers arranged like an ear of wheat, with scaly bracts, as the tail of a rattlesnake. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A small genus of East Indian epiphytal Or- chids, of easy culture, mainly requiring to be grown on blocks of wood or cork, in a warm, moist house. They must have frequent water- ings when growing. Flowers white, or white and brown, produced in imbricated and two- ranked drooping flower spikes. Propagated by division. Pho'rmium. Flax Lily, or New Zealand Flax. From phormos, a basket ; referring to the use made of the plant in its native country. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. P. tenax is a native of New Zealand, where it is extensively used by the natives instead of Flax. This plant is handsome, has stiff, sword-shaped leaves, and orange-colored flowers, produced on strong spikes, alter- nately branched, and growing from ten to fif- teen feet above the leaves, making it an exceedingly handsome and curious plant for green-house culture. P. tenax variegata, more recently introduced, is a very beautiful varie- gated-leaved variety, which makes a magnifi- cent plant for lawn decoration, or for the green-house and conservatory. It requires a light rich soil, and is propagated by division. Introduced in 1798. P. Cookianum (syn. P. Col- PHY ensoi), of which there is also a beautifully variegated variety is like the above only neater and smaller in all its parts. Intro- duced in 1868. Photi'nia. From photeinos, shining; in refer- ence to the leaves. Nat. Ord. Rosacea. P. serrulata, the Chinese Hawthorn, is a very beautiful evergreen shrub or low tree, formerly called Crataegus glabra. It is nearly hardy, but thrives best when trained against a wall in a sheltered situation. The plants are propagated sometimes by cuttings of the ripened wood, but more frequently by graft- ing or inarching on some of the hardy kinds of Crataegus. P. Japonica, the Japan Medlar, Japan Quince, or Loquat (better known in cul- tivation as Eriobotrya Japonica), bears showy white flowers in pendulous racemes, succeeded by large bunches of pale, orange-red, downy, edible fruit. The few species that constitute this genus are natives of northern India, China, and Japan, with one species from Cali- fornia. Phragmi'tes. Reed. From phragmos, a hedge ; forming hedges. Nat. Ord. Graminaczae,. P. communis, the only species, is a tall- growing, reed-like plant, common in the swamps and marshes on the south side of Long Island, and in New Jersey, and extend- ing to Florida. The plumes are gathered in great quantities in the fall, and used with ornamental grasses for dried bouquets and decorations. Phry'ma. Lop-seed. A Linnean name of un- known meaning. P. Leptostachys, the only species, grows two to three feet high, with purplish or pale rose-colored flowers. It flowers in July, and is common in woods and copses. Phyce'lla. A diminutive of phykos, red Alka- net ; alluding to the color of the flowers. Nat. Ord. AmaryllidacetB. A small genus of half-hardy bulbous plants, from the mountain regions of Mexico and South America. The several species have the same general character, the flowers being red or scarlet, marked with yellow, produced in early summer. They should be planted as early in spring as possible, in light, well- drained soil. After flowering, and as soon as they show signs of ripening, take up and store in the same manner as Hyacinths. They were introduced in 1825, and may be increased by offsets. Now included under Hippeastrvm by some botanists. Phyge'lius. Cape Fig-wort. From phyga, flight, and helios, the sun ; said to love shade. Nat. Ord. Scrophulariacem. N. capensis, the only species yet introduced, and a close ally of the Pentstemon, grows from eighteen to twenty-four inches high, and produces late in autumn tubular chocolate- crimson flowers in branching panicles. It was introduced in 1850, and may be increased by cuttings or by seeds. Phy'lica. From phyllikos, leafy ; in allusion to the abundant evergreen foliage. Nat. Ord. Rhamnacew. Pretty little heath-like plants, natives of the Cape of Good Hope, with narrow leaves, and little terminal heads of fragrant white flowers, which begin to appear in autumn, and continue during winter and early spring. 322 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS PHY They are generally grown in a green-house, and require the same treatment as the Cape Heaths. P. ericoides, the best known species, has been thoroughly naturalized, and covers large tracts of land about Lisbon, Portugal. Phylla'gathis. From phyllon, a leaf, and aga- theos, divine ; referring to the beauty of the foliage. Nat. Ord. MelastomacecB. • P. rotundifolia is grown chiefly for its large, beautiful leaves, which are a rich, glossy, metallic green on the upper side, the under being bright red in color, with very prominent ribs. It was introduced from the Malayan Peninsula, and requires a moist, warm atmos- phere to grow it well. It is propagated by leaf-cuttings. Phylla'nthus. From. phyllon, a leaf, and anthos, a flower; the flowers are produced on the edges of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Euphorbiacece. A large and very interesting genus of tropi- cal plants. The species include low, creeping annuals, and moderate-sized trees. They are remarkable for the neatness of the foliage and general aspect. Several species are frequently cultivated on account of the pretty, and at the same time, singular appearance of its leaf- less, leaf-like branches, covered over at the edges with multitudes of pink flowers. P. nivosus, and P. roseo-pictus, are very desirable shrubs fqr the stove-house ; when well grown they have the appearance of a sheet of snow. They were introduced from the South-Sea Islands in 1873, and are propagated by root cuttings, or by cuttings of the ripened wood. Phylla'rthron. From phyllon, a leaf, and arth- ros, a joint ; leaves supposed to be joined, or articulated on the leaf-stalks. Nat. Ord. Bignoniacece. A small genus of shrubs or small trees, con- fined to the islands of eastern Africa, remark- able for their peculiar jointed leaves. The flowers are pink, and appear in terminal and axillary racemes, producing a fruit much used in jellies. They require the same treatment as the Bignonias, to which they are allied. Syn. Arthrophyllum. Phy'llis. From phyllon, a leaf ; the beauty of the species is in its leaves. Nat. Ord. Rubi- acece. P. nobla, Bastard Hare's-ears, is an orna- mental shrub growing from two to three feet high, and producing axillary corymbs of green flowers in abundance. It is a native of the Canary Islands and Madeira, and is propagated by cuttings. Fhylloca'ctus. From phyllon, a leaf, and Cactus. Nat. Ord. Cactacece. Several species and varieties of this genus of Cactacece are cultivated in hot-houses and green-houses for the sake of their fine white or crimson flowers, which are among the largest and most showy of the order. Some confusion exists in their nomenclature, owing to many of the species having formerly been referred to the genera Epiphyllum, and Cereus. They are, however, distinguished from the latter by their curious, flat, broad, leaf-like branches ; and from the former by their flowers being produced from the notches or inden- tures along the edges of the branches, instead of at the end, and having small, sepal-like segments scattered wide apart on the tube, and the numerous long petals variously ex- PHY panded, so as to form a rose-like funnel, or salver-shaped corolla, with the stamens attached to the orifice of the tube, the outer ones being longer than the inner. The princi- pal species described by botanists are found in Mexico, Central America, and Brazil. P. Ackermanni, a native of Mexico, has flowers measuring as much as seven inches across, and of a rich scarlet color, like those of some varieties of Cereus speciosissimus, with broad, very sharp-pointed, slightly waved petals. Its stems are rounded at the base, and bear little tufts of short bristles, and its flat branches are from two to two and a half inches broad, and waved or deeply dented along the margin. P. anguliger is a West Mexican species, and is remarkable for having its flat branches deeply and sharply lobed, so as to resemble pinnately cut leaves, the lobes almost forming right- angled triangles ; its flowers, which are large and fragrant, have brownish petals, and pure white inner ones. The branches and stems of P. Hookeri are flat, and deeply crenated ; they grow from two to three feet high, and bear white, agreeably fragrant flowers on the margins of the stems. P. Phyllanthus, often erroneously called the Night-blooming Cereus, bears large, creamy-white flowers, nine to twelve inches in length, opening at night and exhaling a peculiar odor. P. Phyllanthoides, resembling the latter, has much smaller flowers, the petals being colored rose and white in irregular streaks. It is a very beautiful species, and one of the most florif- erous of the family. Many other forms are well worthy of cultivation ; all the species are readily increased by cuttings, which should be allowed to dry a day or two after being taken off. Phyllocla'dus. From phyllon, a leaf, and kla- dos, a branch ; alluding to the phyllodia which are characteristic. A small genus of Coniferce, consisting of trees, natives of Australia, New Zealand, and Borneo. The characters of the foliage and fruit serve to distinguish this genus from its near ally Dacrydium. P. rhomboidalis, the Celery-topped Pine, is in cultivation as an ornamental tree, as is also P. trichomanoides, the bark of which yields a red dye. Phyllo'des. Flattened leaf-like petioles (with- out blades). A large number of the Australian Acacias bear no true leaves, but Phillodes, which perform the same functions. Phyllo'doce. From phyllon, a leaf, and dokem, to shine; in allusion to the shining leaves. Nat. Ord. Ericacece. A genus of small heath-like shrubs inhabit- ing the mountainous regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. Flowers, blue, pink, or purple, usually nodding on solitary or um- belled peduncles at the summit of the branches. Our native species, P. taxifolia, is found on the alpine summits of the mountains of New Hampshire, Maine, and northward. Phyllo'ma. From phyllon, a leaf, and loma, a fringe ; in reference to the colored edges of the leaves of the first discovered species. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. A small genus of green-house succulent plants, allied to Aloe. They grow well in sandy loam, and are readily increased by suckers. Syn. Lomatophyllum. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 323 PHY Phyllo'stachys. From phyllon, a leaf, and . stachys, a spike ; alluding to the branchlets - being furnished with leaves. Nat. Ord. Graminacece. A genus of tree-like Chinese and Japanese grasses, with half-round stems, prominent lobes and leaf-bearing branchlets in fascicles " or tufts. P. Nigra, produces the Whangee Canes, which, " although slender, are nearly- solid, and appear to be generally used for such purposes as require great strength and toughness. Chairs, pipe-stems, and walking- sticks are often seen in England made from the culms of this species." P. bambusoides grows from ten to twelve feet high, the yellow reed-like culms, being unarmed, very smooth above, and with very prominent nodes. Phyllo'ta. Prom phyllon, a leaf, and ous, otis, an ear ; referring to the shape of the leaves. Nat. Ord. LeguminoscB. A genus of Australian shrubs, closely allied to Dillwynia and Aotus, and requiring the same general treatment. P. Philicoides with yellow flowers forming leafy heads or spikes is the only species in cultivation. Syns. P. aspera, P. cbmosa, and P. squarrosa. Phyllotae'nium. A genus of Aroidece, estab- lished on a New Grenadian species, formerly called Xanthosma. It resembles the Caladium, but differs in its persistent leaves, acrid, milky juice, and the absence of rudimentary organs. P. Lindeni has large hastate-oblong, deep green leaves; the mid-rib and the numerous well defined veins of which are clear ivory white. It is a most showy variegated plant for the warm green-house. Introduced from New Grenada in 1871. Fhyllo'xera. See Insects. Phy'llum. A sepal. In Greek compound, a leaf, as Diphyllous ; two-leaved, Triphyllous, three-leaved, etc. Phymato'des. A genus of Ferns, now included under Polypodium. Phy'salis. Ground Cherry, Strawberry Tomato. From physa, a bladder; alluding to the inflated calyx. Nat. Ord. Solanacem. A genus of American, principally Mexican plants, several species of which are in culti- vation. P. Alkekengi is the Strawberry To- mato common in cultivated grounds and waste places, having become naturalized from Europe. P. Peruviana edulis, the Cape Goose- berry, a native of South America, is occasion- ally grown as a dessert fruit, some people liking its peculiar flavor. Physia'nthus. From physa, a bladder, and anthos, a flower ; alluding to the corolla being inflated at the base. Nat. Ord. Asclepiada- ce JPOA TKTV1ALIS (ROUGH-STALKED MEADOW GRASS). u POA AQUATICA (WATER MEADOW GRASS). 333 AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 333 PLA speaks of the Elk's Horn Fern: "I resided for some time in a house which had been occupied by Mr. Hugh Low, the garden and fruit orchard of which afforded me most delightful walks morning and evening. I never saw the Elk's Horn Fern (Platycerium grande) so luxuriant anywhere as it was on the boles of some large Orange trees here. The barren fronds were broad, like the horns of the giant Irish elk, and the more slender fertile ones drooped on all sides from the base of the nest formed by the leafy expansions. I measured some of these fertile fronds, and found them fully seven feet in length. These splendid Ferns, and the choicest of epiphytal Orchids, which had been planted among the branches of the trees, made a walk among them most enjoyable." This species is still quite rare in the United States. Another species, P. JEthiopioum, has been still more recently introduced, and is to be found in few collec- tions as yet. The fronds of this species are of still grander proportions than the preceding, and has received the common name of Moose Horn Fern. The above with P. Wallichii, are the best and most interesting of these grotesque Ferns. All these species are worthy of a place in any collection, however small. It is supposed by many that they are difficult to grow ; but this is not so. There are very few plants that will accommodate themselves to such varying conditions of heat, moisture and exposure. They are admirable room plants. They may be grown in pots in a porous soil composed of leaf-mold, sand, and plenty of potsherds or pieces of charcoal ; or, better still, they may be grown on cork or a piece of a tree log, two or three feet long and about a foot in diameter. They are propa- gated by division and by spores, the latter, however, being an uncertain method of propa- gation, except by an expert. Platyco'don. From platys, broad, and kodon, a bell; the flowers are broad and bell shaped. Nat. Old. Campanulacece. A genus of hardy herbaceous perennials, with large white or purple flowers, natives of China and Dahuria. The various varieties of P. grandiflora are most desirable plants for the herbaceous border. A new dwarf variety from Japan, P. Mariesi, is a distinct and most acceptable border plant. In the Northern States they should have a slight protection in winter. Platycra'ter. From platys, broad, and krater, a bowl ; alluding to the expanded calyx of the barren flowers. Nat Ord. Saxifragacece. P. arguta, the only representative of the genus, is a hardy prostrate, or creeping shrub, with greenish-white, scattered flowers, much larger than those of Hydrangea. It was intro- duced from Japan in 1866, and is easily propa- gated by cuttings. Platylo'bium. Flat Pea. From platys, broad, and labos, a pod; in reference to the broad legumes. Nat. Ord. Leguminosw. A small genus of handsome evergreen shrubs from Tasmania and New Holland. Like other New Holland plants, these require a light sandy soil, well drained. They should be carefully watered, and have plenty of fresh air whenever it can be admitted. A shelf near to the glass, in the most airy part of the green-house in winter, and a shaded situation PLE out of doors in summer, will suit them. The slender branches of all the species require some support though they do not look well when trained to a regular trellis. It is, therefore, better to use slight sticks, where most wanted, allowing the points of the shoots to hang in a graceful, pendant manner. The prevailing color of the large pea-shaped flowers is orange, or yellow and red. The species are rarely met in collections, though deserving of general cultivation. They were introduced about 1800, and are propa- gated by cuttings or from seed. Platylo'ma. From platys, broad, and loma, a fringe. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacecs. A genus of tropical Ferns, some of which are very beautiful. They require to be grown in a shaded house, warm and moist. This genus is included under Pelkea by some botanists. Platylo'phus. From platys, broad, and lophos, a crest ; the capsule is so much compressed at the apex, as to appear winged. Nat. Ord. Saxifragacew. P. trifoliata, White Alder, the only species is a beautiful green-house evergreen tree with white flowers, disposed in long, axillary, many-flowered panicles. It is a native of the Cape of Good Hope, and was introduced in 1820. Syn. Wienmannia. Platys. A term in Greek compounds, signify- ing broad ; as Platyphyllus, broad-leaved. Platyste'mon. From platys, broad, and stemon, a stamen. Nat. Ord. Papaveracem. Very handsome yellow-flowering annuals, quite hardy, of creeping habit, and free flowering. The seed should be sown in March, on a warm border, where the plants are required to bloom. The two species that compose this genus are natives of Cali- fornia and Siberia. Platythe'ca Galioides. This is given in " Nicholson's Dictionary of Gardening " as the correct name of Tetratheca or Tremandra verticillata. Flatysti'gma. From platys, broad, and stigma, the female organ. Nat. Ord. Papaveracece. P. lineare, the only cultivated species, is a hardy annual, found in California in 1833. It is a dwarf-growing and free-blooming plant. The flowers are yellow, and, from their pro- fusion, quite showy. It requires no more care than any other hardy annual. Platysty'lis. From platys, broad, and stylos, a style ; in allusion to the dilated style. Nat. Ord. Leguminosai. A genus of very handsome herbaceous border plants, now included by many botanists under Lathyrus. Plectoco'mia. From plectos, plaited, and kome, leaves ; probably from the leaves being used in plaiting. A genus of Palmacem, comprising some six species, allied to Calamus, and aimed with recurved prickles. The leaves are large, pin- nate, furnished with long whip-like tails, beset on the under side with very strong spines. P. Assamica, P. Andersoni, P. Himalayana, and P. elongata, are the best known species. They are handsome plants, distinct, and graceful, and are freely propagated by suckers. They are natives of the Malayan Archipelago and 334 HENDEESON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS PLE India. Handsome plants of easy culture, first introduced in 1840. Plectopo'ma. A group of hybrid Gesneras, which some writers have constituted a distinct genus. They are a strong, erect-growing class, with but little to distinguish them from others of this interesting order. Plectran'thus. From plektron, a cock's spur, and anthos, a flower ; referring to the shape of the flower. Nat. Ord. Labiates. Green-house shrubs and herbaceous plants, closely allied to Coleus. Natives of Africa, South America, and Asia. They all have purple flowers, produced in terminal and axillary racemes, but being of little beauty or interest, they are rarely cultivated. Plectri'tis. From plectron, a cock's spur; in reference to the flowers being gibbous in front. Nat. Ord. Valerianaceaz. A genus of Californian and Chilian annuals, with pink flowers in dense capitate cymes. They require the same treatment as other hardy annuals. Syn. Valerianella. Plectro'nia. From plectron, a cock's spur ; in allusion to the large spines which are to be found on some of the species. Nat. Ord. Rubiacew. A large genus of ornamental trees or shrubs, sometimes climbing, natives of tropical Asia, Africa, Australia and the Pacific Islands. Few of the species have been introduced, and are of but little interest, horticulturally. Syns. Canthium, Mitrastigma, Phallaria, etc. Plee'a. Named after pleias, the seven stars ; in reference to the disposition of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Liliacem. P. tenuifolia, the only species, is a hardy perennial plant with knotted-rush-like stems or rhizomes and greenish- white flowers. It is a native of the Southern United States, and is increased freely by seeds. Ple'ione. A mythological name. Nat. Ord. Orchidaceee. A small genus of dwarf epiphytal Orchids, formerly classed with Cmlogyne. They are found growing in high altitudes in the moun- tains of northern and northeastern India. They are remarkable for their dwarf habit and richly-colored flowers. The flowers are produced in autumn or early winter, after a period of rest, and immediately precede the new growth. They are of easy culture, requiring a house of moderate temperature, and alternate seasons of growth and rest. Propagated by division. Introduced in 1864. Plenus. Pleno. Double, as in double flowers. Pleope'ltis. From pleos, full, and pelte, a shield ; referring to the covering of the spores or seed-cases. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. An interesting genus of tropical ferns in- habiting some portions of South America and the South Pacific Islands. P. Xiphias is a beautiful plant for the green-house. It is of considerable size, and well furnished with sori; firm, but not leathery in texture, and arched and somewhat undulated at the edge, which is otherwise entire ; the venation is strongly marked and closely reticulated. This genus is now included under Polypodium by some botanists. Plero'ma. From pleroma, fullness ; referring to the cells of the seed-vessel. Nat. Ord. Melastomacece. PLO A small genus of handsome green-house evergreen shrubs from Brazil. They are free flowering and of easy culture. A rich soil and liberal watering during the summer are essen- tial, that the new growth may be strong ; they will then produce their clusters of purple flowers freely in autumn and winter. P. ele- gans is one of the best known species, and bears beautiful flowers of a rich purple color. P. macranthum floribundum is also a very free flowering species, producing its large violet- blue flowers in great profusion on quite young plants. They were first introduced in 1821, and are increased by cuttings. Pleurisy Root. A popular name of Asclepias tuberosa, from its supposed medicinal quali- ties. Pleuro'gyne. From pleuron, a side, and gyne, the female organ ; referring to the stigmas issuing from the side of the seed-vessel. Nat. Ord. GentianacecB. P. rotata, the only cultivated species, is a low growing hardy annual from Siberia. Pleurope'talum. From pleuron, a side, and petalon, a petal ; in allusion to the shape of the corolla. Nat. Ord. Amaranthacece. A small genus of slightly-branched glabrous shrubs, natives of Mexico, Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. P. Costaricense, the only species yet introduced, is a small evergreen shrub with green branches. It was introduced from Central America in 1883, but is rarely found in cultivation. Pleurotha'llis. From pleuron, a side, and thallo, to flower ; in allusion to the one-sided dispo- sition of the flowers of some of the species. Nat. Ord. Orchidaceee. This is one of the most extensive genus of Orchids, comprising nearly three hundred species, all epiphytes, and natives of the West Indies and South America. Though interest- ing botanically, only a few species, such as P. ornata, P. scapha, P. tridentata, and P. Barber- iana, have sufficient merit to warrant their introduction into the Orchid house. Plicate. Plaited or folded together lengthwise, like a closed fan. Plo'cama. From plocamos, bent hairs ; alluding to the pendulous branches. Nat. Ord. Rubi- aceoe. P. pendula, the only described species, is an erect shrub with very slender, pendulous branches. The flowers are white, small and terminal. It was introduced from the Canary Islands in 1772, and is readily increased by cuttings. Plocoste'mma. From plokos, curled, and stemma, a crown ; referring to the crown of the stamens. Nat. Ord. Asclepiadacem. A small genus of green-house evergreen twiners, allied to Hoya, and requiring the same general treatment. They inhabit the forests of Borneo and Java. Introduced in 1858. Ploughman's Spikenard. Baccharis halimi- folia. Plowing. Many gardeners yet ignore the plow in the garden, even where it is perfectly prac- ticable to use it. We have used the plow and harrow for pulverizing on every foot that it was possible to use them in, in all our opera- tions in the ground, whether for fruit, flow- AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 335 PLU ers or vegetables, for the past thirty years, and feel convinced that their use for that pur- pose is far better than the spade or digging fork, besides the immense saving in labor. Plum. The well-known Prunus domestica, and its varieties, from which the Plums of our gardens have originated, are found throughout Asia and southern Europe. The early history of the cultivated varieties is quite obscure. They were introduced into England from France early in the fifteenth century. Both the French and the English horticulturists have given this fruit con- siderable attention. New York has the credit, however, of having produced the greatest number of excellent varieties. Downing says : 'fThat the soil and climate of the Middle States are admirably suited to this fruit is sufficiently proved by the almost spontaneous production of such varieties as the Washington, Jefferson, Lawrence's Favorite, etc. ; sorts which equal or surpass in beauty or flavor the most celebrated Plums of France or England." There are several species indigenous to this country, some of which are of fair flavor, and are now being cultivated by some of our nurserymen. Chickasaw Plum, Primus Chic- asa, is a native of Maryland and southwest- ward to Texas, where it is known as the Dwarf Texas Plum. The Beach Plum, P. mari- tima, is a low, straggling tree or shrub, from two to five feet high. The fruit is nearly round, red or purple, and covered with bloom. It is common in sandy places on the sea-coast from Maine to Virginia, and seldom ripens well elsewhere. The Wild Red or Yellow Plum is P. Americana. This species grows from ten to twenty feet high, and is common in hedge- rows from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico. The fruit is pleasant-tasted, but has a tough skin. It ripens in July and August. The great difficulty in the cultivation of the finer varie- ties of Plum is the Curculio, which punctures the fruit in the green state, and lays its eggs, which, by the time the fruit is ripe, develops to the larvee state, completely destroying the fruit. The only effectual remedy thus far is that so strongly recommended and practiced years ago by Mr. John J. Thomas, and Dr. Trimble, and so successfully practiced by Ellwanger and Barry, in their extensive Plum Orchard — to spread sheets under the trees and jar the branches so as to shake off the insect. This, to be effective, must be begun just after the fruit has formed, and continued at least once a week for thirty or forty days. See Curculio. Plum. American Wild. Primus Americana. Australian. Cargilla arborea, and C. Aus- tralis. Beach. Prunus maritima. Calif ornian Wild. Prunus subcordata. Canada. Prunus Americana. Carolina. Prunus Caroliniana. Ceylon. Flacourtia sapida. Cherry . Prunus Myrobalana . Chicasaw. Prunus Chicasa. Cocoa. Chrysobalanus Icaco. Damson. Prunus domestica var. damascena. Date, American. Diospyros Virginiana. Date, Chinese. Diospyrus Kaki. Date, European. Diospyrus Lotus. Double-flowered, Chinese. Prunus Sinensis fi.pl. POA E. Indian. Flacourtia cataphracta, and F. Ramonchi. Gingerbread. Parinarium macrophyllum. Green-gage. Prunus Claudiana. Ground. Astragalus caryocarpus. Hog. Various species of Spondias, etc. Jamaica. Spondias lutea. Japanese. Prunus Sinensis. Mountain. Ximenia Americana. Myrobalan. A variety of Prunus domestica. Myrobella. Prunus Myrobalana. Natal. Arduina grandiflora. Orleans. A variety of Prunus domestica. Pigeon. Coccoloba Floridana. Queensland. The genus Owenia. Sand. Primus maritima. Sapodilla or Sapotilla. Achras Sapota. Sugar. Malpighia saccharina. Tamarind. Dialium Indicum. Weeping. Prunus cerasifera. Wild, British. Prunus communis. Wild, of the Cape of Good Hope. Pappea Capensis. Wild-Goose. An improved variety of Prunus Chicasa. Plumbagina'ceae. A natural order of shrubs or herbaceous plants, found chiefly on the sea-shores or salt marshes in temperate regions. The flowers are blue, violet, pink, yellow or white, and some of the species possess tonic and astringent properties. Eight genera, including Armeria, Statice, and Plumbago, and over two hundred species con- stitute the order. Plumba'go. Leadwort. From plumbum, lead. Some species were formerly said to cure Lead disease. Nat. Ord. Plumbaginaceaz. A genus consisting of green-house ever- greens and hardy herbaceous plants, natives of Europe, Asia, and Africa. Three of the species are well worth growing in the green- house. P. Capensis, with lavender-blue flowers, P. rosea, with rose-colored flowers, and P. alba, with white flowers. Each will grow well with ordinary treatment. The former is a valuable plant, as it produces its large panicles of lavender flowers nearly the whole winter. P. Larpentoz, has deep azure- blue flowers, flowering from August to November, and is perfectly hardy. The name of this species is now given by some as Valo- radia, and by others, Ceratostigma Plumbagin- oides. They were first introduced in 1818, and are easily propagated by cuttings of the roots, or shoots, and by division. Plum-bush. carpa. Plume-Grass. Plume-Nutmeg. Atherosperma moschata. Plume-Thistle. The genus Cirsium, and Cnicus; also Carduus lanceolata. Plume-Thistle, yellow. Cnicus Acarna. Plumose. Feathery, resembling feathers. Plumule. The bud of seed ; the youngest bud in a plant ; the bud or growing point of the embryo. Poa. Meadow Grass. From poa, signifying grass or herbage. Nat. Ord. Graminacem. An extensive genus of grasses, containing some that are valuable for hay and pasture. P. pratensis is the well-known Kentucky Blue Grass, introduced from Europe, and now Australian. Asrotricha ptero- Gynerium argenteum. 336 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS POC thoroughly naturalized. P. arachnifera, Texas Blue Grass, is an invaluable hardy winter Grass for the south, and the longest, driest and hottest summer fails to injure it. It makes as good sod as the Kentucky Blue Grass (P. pratensis), and if sown together (not too deep) the seeds of the two varieties generally come up together after the same shower, for it takes a wet, damp, drizzly spell to start it. It can he cultivated, both from seed and sets, and may be planted either in the fall or spring. P. serotina, the Fowl Meadow Grass or False Eed Top, and P. aquatica, the Water Meadow Grass, are both very valuable grasses, more especially for damp meadows, low banks of streams, etc. They grow luxuriantly in such situations, and furnish an immense quantity of herbage, which may be cut several times a season if desired. They are also excellent grasses for pasturage. P. annua is one of the worst weeds of English gardens. Poculiform. Resembling a drinking-cup or goblet in shape. Pod. The capsule or seed-case of leguminous and cruciferous plants, those of the former (Peas, Beans, etc.) being called legumes, and those of the latter (Cabbage, Turnip, etc.) siliques and silicules. Pod Pern. See Ellobocarpus. Poda'nthes. From pous, podos, a foot, and anthos, a flower ; alluding to the flowers being borne on long pedicels. Nat. Ord. Asclepia- dacece. A genus comprising about eight species of shrubby plants closely allied to Stapelia, all natives of South Africa. They are but little cultivated. Podium, Podos. In Greek compounds, signify- ing a stalk, stipe, etc., as Podocephalus, stalked-headed ; Leptopodus, slender-stalked. Fodoca'rpus. Japan Yew. From pous, a foot, and karpos, a fruit ; the fruits are foot-stalked. Nat. Ord. Coniferce. A genus of hardy and half-hardy evergreen trees and shrubs, indigenous in China, the East Indies, and New Zealand. P. Japonica is an upright-growing shrub, with dark, shin- ing, green leaves, luxuriant in its growth, and in form resembling the Irish Yew. P. cupres- sina is noted as one of the best timber trees of Java; while P. totara, a New Zealand spe- cies, having a light, durable wood, has been frequently the subject of contention and strife among the natives ; its bark is made use of for roofing purposes, and its fruits are eaten. Several species have been introduced into conservatories, and one or two Japanese or Chinese varieties are sufficiently hardy to stand out of doors, if slightly protected. Podola'sia. From pous, podos, a foot, and Lasia; from which genus it differs in having a long stipe to the spadix. Nat. Ord. Aroidem. P. stipitata, the only introduced species, is a slender plant-stove perennial, with a short, erect caudex, and sagittate or hastate leaves, with elongated, narrow, acuminate lobes. It was introduced from Borneo in 1882, and is easily increased by division. Podo'lepis. From pous, podos, a foot, and lepis, a scale ; flower-stalk covered with scales. Nat. Ord. Composite. Very pretty Australian plants. They are all nearly hardy. The perennials are in- POG creased by dividing the root, and the annuals (P. gracilis, etc) by sowing in the green-house or on a hot-bed in February or March, and transplanting into the open border in May. Podolo'bium. From pous, podos, a foot, and lobos, a pod ; the seed-pod stands on a foot- stalk within the calyx. Nat. Ord. Legumin- osae. A small genus of New Holland evergreen shrubs, with handsome red and yellow flowers. Ordinary green-house treatment will grow them successfully. They were introduced in 1822, and are best grown from seed. This genus is now included by some botanists under Oxylobium. Podophy'llum. Duck's Foot. Abridged From Anapodophyllum, a word signifying a duck's foot; the leaves bear some resemblance to that ; whence the English name, Duck's Foot. Nat. Ord. Berberidacem. This is a small genus of hardy herbaceous plants, with thick, creeping root-stocks, which send up in spring a stem bearing two leaves, with a solitary flower between them. P. pelta- ium, a native species, is common in moist, shady woods, and is distinguished by the stamens being double the number of the pet- als. Its leaves are from five to nine-lobed ; its flowers large, white, and nodding ; and its fruit egg-shaped and yellowish, somewhat resembling a small lemon, and hence some- times called Wild Lemon, but more generally May Apple, or Mandrake. Its foliage is nar- cotic and poisonous, but the acid pulp of the fruit is eatable, though of a mawkish flavor. The roots possess active medical properties, highly esteemed by the Eclectic practitioners. Podo'pterus. From pous, podos, a foot, and pteris, a wing ; in allusion to the outer peri- anth segments being winged. Nat. Ord. Poly- gonacea. P. Mexicanus, the only species, is a hand- some green-house shrub, with flexuous branches, spiny at the tips. It grows freely in a compost of loam and peat, and is increased readily by cuttings of the young wood. Podosti'gma. From pous, podos, a foot, and stigma; alluding to the stalked stigma. Nat. Ord. Asclepiadacexs. P. pubescens, the only species, a native of the Southern States from Florida to North Carolina, is a low pubescent perennial herb, of but little horticultural interest. Podothe'ca. From pous, podos, a foot, and theke, a cell or capsule ; alluding to the stalk of the fruit. Nat. Ord. Composite. A genus of Australian hardy annuals of no great beauty ; easily raised from seed. Syn. Podosperma. Poet's Narcissus. The popular name of Nar- cissus Poeticus. Pogo'gyne. From pogon, a beard, and gyne, the female organ ; the style is bearded. Nat. Ord. Labiatw. P. multiflora, the only known species, is a hardy annual. It is a native of California, and was introduced in 1836. The flowers are lilac, and produced in great numbers. It thrives with the simplest garden culture. Po'gon. A beard. This word is used in Greek compounds, and denotes any collection of long hairs. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 337 POG Pogo'nia. From pogon, a beard ; alluding to the fringed lip of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Orchi- dacece. A small genus of terrestrial Orchids, com- mon both in temperate and tropical regions. They are small plants, with drooping flowers, on slender pedicels, of a purple or greenish- yellow color. Several of the species are found from New York southward. Pogo'nopus. From pogon, a beard, and pous, a food ; in allusion to the shape of the flower. Nat. Ord. Rubiacece. A small genus of trees and shrubs, natives of tropical America. P. Caracasensis, the only cultivated species, has showy bright pink flowers, borne in terminal-branched pani- cles. It was introduced to cultivation in 1855, and is propagated by cuttings. Pogoste'mon. From pogon, a beard, and ste- mon, a stamen ; the stamen filaments being hairy. Nat. Ord. Labiatce. A genus of tall herbs, found principally in India and Ceylon. The species are of but lit- tle interest except P. Patchouli, which has dense spikes of white flowers, tinged with purple, and which affords the celebrated Patchouli perfume, or Pucha-pat of the Hin- doos. The odor is very peculiar, and even disagreeable to many, but in India it is one of the most common perfumes found in the bazaars. Poincia'na. Flower Fence. Named after M. de Poind, once Governor of the Antilles. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A small genus of very beautiful green-house evergreen shrubs, natives of South America and the East Indies. P. pulcherrima, the Bar- badoes Flower Fence, is a really beautiful object when well grown, as is also P. regia, the former having large red and yellow flow- ers, and the latter rich crimson. They flower freely if grown in pots and plunged in a warm, sunny spot, during the summer season, care being taken to syringe freely to keep down red spider. They were first introduced in 1788, and are propagated by seeds or from cuttings of the half-ripened wood. Poinse'ttia. Named in honor of Joel R. Poin- 8ette, American minister to Mexico, who dis- covered the plant in Mexico in 1828. Nat. Ord. Euphorbiacece. A small genus of evergreen shrubs from Mexico, producing large terminal bracts of fiery scarlet leaves from December until February ; they give the plant a most splendid appearance. There is a variety with white bracts, but it is inferior to the species. Poin- settia pulcherrima plenissima, a new and double variety of recent introduction, is a magnifi- cent plant, remarkable for the distinct charac- ter of its floral bracts, the size of the heads in which they are produced, and their marvelous brilliancy of color. Instead of the bracts being borne in a single head and spreading out as in the old form, in the new double kind they are gathered into clusters, which fill up the centre, so that the whole inflo- rescence is full and rosette-like in form. The double variety was discovered by Mr. Roezl in Mexico, and was bought by Mr. Isaac Buchanan, of New York, who sold it to an English florist, by whom it was distributed. POI This plant is of the easiest culture. After flowering cut back to within two buds of the old wood, take up the plants, and put them in a convenient place under a bench, and cover the roots with sand or earth, and keep dry. Let them remain until it is time to plant out ordinary bedding plants, when they should be put out in the open air, and planted in boxes six inches deep (say six plants in each box), a foot or so apart, giving them good rich soil. They should be taken into the house before the nights begin to get cool. In the latitude of New York they should be housed by the middle of September. They may be grown to flower in these boxes by giving them plenty of manure water ; although, if wanted in large quantity, it is best to place the boxes on a green-house bench, knock off the sides and ends of the boxes, and fill up to the level between with soil. After the plants have become thus established, an occasional water- ing with liquid manure will add greatly to their growth. At no time should the tem- perature in the house fall below 50° at night or 70° during the day. To propagate, allow the cuttings to dry a day or two after they are taken from the plants; then cut them into pieces of two or three buds each, and insert them in an ordinary propagating bench. Pot off as soon as they are rooted, and grow on until the weather will permit of their being put out of doors, when they may be given the same care as the older plants. With this treatment the plants will usually be done flowering by New Year's, and may be taken up to make room for other plants. This genus is now by many botanists reunited with Euphorbia. Poison. Arrow. The juice of Euphorbia hepta- gona, E. virosa, and E. cereiformis, in Africa, and of E. cotinifolia, in Brazil. Also the Nou- rali or Caruna poison, derived from Strychnos toxifera, by the savages of Guiana, and the Tschittich poison, prepared by the Javanese from Strychnos Tieute. Also the poisonous juice of Hippomane Mancinella. Poison-Bay. See Illiceum. Poison-Berry. A name given to several species of Cestrum. Poison-Bulb. Asiatic. Crinum Asiaticum. Poison-Bulb. Cape. See Buphane. Poison-Dogwood or Poison-Sumach. See Rhus venenata. Poison-Hemlock. See Conium. Poison-Ivy or Poison-Oak. See Rhus toxico- dendron. Poison-Oak. Californian. Rhus diversiloba. Poison-Plant. Vincetoxicum officinale. Poison-Tree. Jamaica. Rhus arborea. Poisonous Plants. Of the 100,000 known flower- ing plants it is stated that 10,000 may be con- sidered as deleterious, all being more or less energetic in their action, and of these, probably fifty are deadly. It is a singular, but generally understood fact, that all plants having green flowers are poisonous, either in their leaves, stems, seeds, or roots. The famous Upas Tree of Java does not affect the atmosphere as is commonly supposed, but its juice is the part which does the harm. Large tracts of land in Java are barren owing to certain 338 HENDEESON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS POI poisonous vapors rising out of the earth, and the early Dutch settlers attributed the barren- ness to the influence of the Upas Tree. The Manchineel, a plant of the West Indies, gives off a vapor which is poisonous, and in conse- quence it is never found in cultivation. The Dumb Cane, also of the West Indies, is very energetic in action, and will produce lockjaw on being applied to the lips. Many other plants such as Aconitum napellus, Atropa Bella- donna, Veratrum viride, Paris quadrifolia, Ricinus communis, Manihot utilissima, Rhus Toxicodendron, R. venenata, and many others are poisonous. These dangerous qualities are generally mentioned in this work. Poi'vrea. Named after M. Poivre, a French botanist. Nat. Ord. Combretacem. A small genus of green-house evergreen climbers of great beauty, The flowers are white or scarlet, produced in terminal or axil- lary panicles. They are natives of Africa and the East Indies, and they require the warmer part of the green-house and a humid atmos- phere. They were first introduced in 1820, and are propagated by cuttings. This genus Is included by Bentham and Hooker under Combretum. Poke. Indian. See Veratrum viride. Poke-Root. A common name for Veratrum viride. Poke Weed. candra. Virginian. See Phytolacca de- Polani'sia. From polys, many, and anisos, unequal ; many stamens of unequal lengths. Nat. Ord. Capparidacece. A genus of hardy, free-flowering annuals, allied to Cleome, chiefly natives of the East Indies. P. graveolens is common in the New England States. None of the species has suf- ficient beauty to warrant its introduction into the flower border. Polar Plant. Silphium laciniatum. Polemonia'cese. A natural order of erect or twining plants, found chiefly in temperate countries, and abounding in northwestern America. Most of them have showy flowers. Phlox, Cobaia, Gilia, and Polemonium, are exam- ples of the genera, of which about ten are known, comprising upwards of one hundred species. Polemo'nium. Greek Valerian. From polemos, war; Pliny says this plant gained its name from having caused a war between two kings, each of whom claimed the honor of having first discovered its virtues. Nat. Ord. Pole- moniacea. An extensive genus of hardy herbaceous perennials. They are well-known border plants, that have long been under cultivation. Flowers are mostly blue and white, produced in large terminal heads. The species are common throughout the Northern States and northern Europe. P. cceruleum, derives its common name of Jacob's Ladder from its beau- tiful pinnately-cleft leaves. It is found in moist places throughout New York and New Jersey, and is a favorite border plant. P. confertum is a late addition to the cultivated kinds from the Kocky Mountains, and is one of the finest of the genus. The color is a deep blue, very attractive, and the plant is quite distinct from any other. It requires plenty of moisture in summer, and is perfectly POL hardy. All the species are propagated readily by division, or from seed, which should be sown in June to flower the coming season. Polia'nthes. The Tuberose. From poly, many: and anthos, a flower ; an abundance of flowers. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. This interesting genus is composed of two species, both properly green-house evergreen perennials. One of the species, P. gracilis, a native of Brazil, with pale yellow flowers, is but little known, and has but little merit. The well-known species, P. tuberosa, is a na- tive of the East Indies, from whence it was introduced early in the sixteenth century. The first account given of the Tuberose is in L'Ecluse's " History of Plants," where it ap- pears that it was brought from the East Indies by Father Theophilus Minuti, a Catho- lic missionary, about the year 1530, who grew it at Boisgencier, near Toulon. Bernard Pal- udanus, a distinguished physician at Borne, grew it in 1594, having obtained the roots from the priests, who had, previous to that date, refused all applications for it. This was the single kind . The same, with varie- gated foliage is mentioned at nearly as early a date. Parkinson, in that rare old book, his "Garden of Pleasant Flowers," published in 1629, gives a description of it by its then known name, which should not be lost. We quote in full, as it is quite as amusing as in- structive : "Hyacinthus Indicus major tuberosa radice, 'the Greater Indian knobbed Jacinth.' I have thought fittest to begin with this Ja- cinth [Hyacinth], both because it is the great- est and highest, and also because the flowers herof are in some likenesse neare unto a Daf- fodille, although his roote be tuberous, and not bulbous, as the rest are. This Indian Jacinth hath a thicke knobbed roote (yet formed into several heads, somewhat like unto bulbous roots), with many thick fibres at the bottom of them ; from the divers heads of this roote arise divers strong and very tall stalkes, beset with divers faire, long and broad leaves, joyned at the bottome close unto the stalk, where they are greatest, and smaller to the very end, and those that grow higher to the toppe, being smaller and smaller. The toppes of the stalkes are garnished with many faire, large, white flowers, each wherof is composed of six leaves, lying spread open as the flowers of the white Daffodille, with some short threads in the middle, and of a very sweet scent, or rather strong and headee." The double-flowering Tuberose was obtained from seed by Mons. Le Cour, of Leyden, in Holland (date unknown), who for many years would not, under any circum- stances, part with a root, even after propa- gating in such quantities as to give ' him a surplus. He would cause every tuber to be cut in pieces and destroyed, in order to have the monopoly, and to be the only possessor of the flower in the world. The recently intro- duced variety, known as the Pearl, is a sport, having originated on the grounds of Mr. John Henderson, of Flushing, L. I. Its strong habit of growth and dark, heavy foliage at- tracted Mr. Henderson's attention, causing him to give it every chance for perfect devel- opment. The result was a variety far supe- rior to the parent, both in size and number of flowers, with a marked superiority in habit of growth, the flower-stalks not being so tall by AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 339 POL nearly a foot as the original, a feature making it invaluable for green-house culture. The Tuberose delights in a strong, rich soil, deep and moist. Manure, heat and water are essen- tial to its perfect development. For cultiva- tion in the open border, the bulbs should be planted about the first of June, covering the tuber about one inch with light, fine soil. No other care is needed than that usually given garden plants. The only care required is in the selection of the bulbs, which, if kept moist and cool during the winter, are liable to rot away in the centre, rendering them worthless for flowering. Perfect tubers will always be green at the top, or at least suffi- ciently so to show signs of life ; and in choos- ing, all others should be rejected. Forcing the Tuberose, so as to have the flowers from January to March, is an exceedingly difficult operation, and is now but little attempted here. The plant being of tropical origin, to have it at all times in a growing state requires a high temperature — not less than an average of 80? ; consequently, few ordinarily-heated green-houses or private sitting-rooms are at a temperature high enough to insure the con- tinued and uninterrupted growth necessary to the production of flowers in the dark winter months. It is, however, comparatively easily forced so as to produce flowers during April, May and June, and again, by retarding the bulbs, during November and December. By the first method the bulbs are, about the first of January, placed closely together in boxes three inches deep, having two inches or so of damp moss in the bottom. These boxes are placed in some warm spot, where the temper- ature will average 75°. If for green-house culture, the best place is on the hot water pipes. In about four or five weeks the Tube- roses will have rooted all through the moss, and they should then be potted in four or five inch pots, or planted in a bench of soil four or five inches deep, and kept in a temperature at no time less than 75°, and flowers will be had in abundance in April. For succession crops, place the dry bulbs in moss, at intervals of three or four weeks. The last crops will usu- ally be the best, as by May and June the tem- perature will have increased, and less artificial heat will be required. If flowers are wanted during November and December, the retard- ing process alluded to is resorted to. This is done by selecting such bulbs as are wanted (care being taken to use only such as are sound and firm), and placing them in some cool, dry place until the middle of August, when the first crop may be planted, either in pots or in a bench of the green-house, as described above for the spring crop. This planting will produce a crop by November. For the succession crop for December, plant- ing must be delayed until the middle of Sep- tember. The same high temperature is indis- pensable as in the spring crop, namely, an average of 75°. The variety best for forcing is the "Pearl," which grows only about half the height and has flowers nearly twice the diameter of the old sort; but for planting in the open ground in the ordinary way, when the flowers are only wanted for fall, the com- mon double variety is the best ; as, being less lull, the flowers open better under the often unfavorably dry atmosphere that we have in October. Tuberoses, are often forwarded, so POL as to be got in flower in the earlier fall months, in sections of the country where the season is too short. This is done exactly in the way recommended for the spring forcing — by starting the bulbs in damp moss ; but for this purpose the dry bulbs should not be placed in the moss until the middle of May. By the middle of June, when the weather has become warm, and they are set out, they will start to grow at once, and will in this way flower from three to four weeks earlier than if the dry bulb had been put in the open ground, cold as it is in most of the Northern States in May. Of course it will be under- stood that when the dry bulbs are placed in the moss to start it must be in a green-house, or in some place where the thermometer will average 75° or 80°, or they will not start at all, or, at least, very feebly. It will thus be seen, from the foregoing remarks, that it will be utterly useless to attempt to grow Tube- roses at any season unless in a tropical tem- perature, which at no time should be less than 75°. Many growers of this flower have been sadly disappointed in the results, their flowers coming single instead of double, and they naturally ask the cause. We can only say, there is a tendency in all sports and hybrids to return to the original or type, and this plant is no exception to the rule. The condi- tions of growth may have much to do with it. We have known large stocks that were wholly double one year to come nearly all single the next. We cannot satisfactorily account for it, and only know that the annoyance is com- mon in every place where they are grown. From a very close observation, we believe much is due to poor cultivation, and the best remedy is to be found in giving them a very rich soil and good cultivation. Like many other plants, we have found they do best when given a rotation of soil. The beautiful variegated variety before mentioned, its leaves beautifully striped white and green, is in cul- tivation, and is an excellent plant for groups in the mixed border, and more especially as forming a distinct variegated row in a ribbon border in contrast with Coleus, etc. Politus. Having a polished appearance, as the coat or shell of many seeds. Pollen. The powdery or other matter usually contained in the cells of an anther, by whose action on the stigma the fertilization of the ovules is accomplished. Pollen cells are the cavities of an anther, in which the pollen is formed ; Pollen grains, or granules, the separate particles of pollen, and Pollen tubes, membraneous tubes emitted by pollen, and conducting the fluid which the pollen secretes down the style. Pollinia. Pollen-masses. Pollination. A term used to designate the dust- ing of the stigma of a flower with the pollen- grains, as distinguished from fertilization or the action of the pollen upon the ovule, which gives rise to the development of the seed containing an embryo. Poly. In Greek compounds signifying numer- ous. Polya'nthus. An umbellate-flowered variety of Primula vulgaris, probably derived from a cross between the Primrose and Cowslip ; cultivated as a garden or florist's flower. 340 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS POL Folya'nthus Narcissus. See Narcissus. Polybo'trya. From poly, many, and botrys, a raceme ; the appearance of the fertile or seed- bearing frond. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. An extensive genus of tropical Ferns, some of which are very ornamental, and all requir- ing green-house treatment. They are mostly natives of the West Indies, whence they were first introduced in 1823, and are propa- gated by division or by spores. By some botanists, this genus is now included, under Acrostichum. Polycaly'mna. From poly, many, and kalymna, a covering ; in allusion to the numerous series of involucral bracts. Nat. Ord. Composite. P. Stuartii, the only species, is a very singu- lar low-growing plant with flat, roundish, white flower heads, an inch or more in diam- eter. It is a native of Australia. Bentham and Hooker include this plant under Myrio- cephalus. Poly'gala. Milkwort. From poly, much, and gala, milk; reputed effects of the plant on cattle that feed upon it. Nat. Ord. Polygalacece. An extensive genus of hardy annuals, herba- ceous perennials, and green-house perennials, found inhabiting nearly all countries. P. Myrtifolia grandiflora (syn. P. Dalmasiana), and P. oppositifolia, are valuable spring-flow- ering green-house shrubs, while P. vulgaris and its varieties, and our native P. paucifolia are beautiful subjects for the rock-garden. P. Senega, Seneca Snake Root, is a species common in the Middle and Western States, and has considerable reputation for its medic- inal properties. Polygala'ceae. A natural order of shrubs or herbs, occasionally twining, found in all quarters of the globe. The flowers have a resemblance to PapWonacecB, from which they are distinguished by the odd petal being inferior, and the sepal superior. They are generally bitter, and their roots yield a milky juice. Polygala, Monnina, and Trigonia, are examples of the genera, of which there are about fifteen, and about four hundred species. Poly'gamous. Having on the same plant some flowers that are male, others that are female, and others hermaphrodite or perfect. Polygona'ceae. A natural order of herbaceous, rarely shrubby plants, found in almost all parts of the world, more especially in the temperate region of the Northern Hemisphere. Fagopyrum esculentum (Buckwheat), and Rheum officinale (Rhubarb), are both important eco- nomic plants of the order, which contains thirty genera, and about six hundred species. Polygona'tnm. Solomon's Seal. From poly, many, and gonu, a joint or knee ; referring to the numerous joints of the stem. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. A small genus of very handsome, hardy herbaceous plants, of easy culture and grace- ful habit, not often seen in the borders, but deserving a place in every collection of hardy plants. P. multiflorum, a native of Great Britain, grows from two to three feet high, and has a stout stem, the lower part bare of leaves; the upper gracefully recurves, and produces from the axils of its broad leaves numerous green and white flowers, in clusters of two to four. P. giganteum, a native of the Western States, is a species of similar habit, POL but with smaller flowers. They thrive well in almost any soil or situation, but prefer one that is shady and moist. They are readily increased by root division, or from seeds. Polycarpae'a. From poly, many, and karpos, a fruit ; alluding to the numerous seeds. Nat. Ord. IllecebraceoR. A genus of annual or perennial plants, natives of tropical and sub-tropical regions, one being widely dispersed over tropical America. The species are of easy culture, but are not much known to cultivation. Poly'gonum. From poly, many, and gonu, a joint or knee ; referring to the numerous joints of the stem. Nat. Ord. PolygonacecB. A very extensive and widely-distributed genus of hardy plants, many of which may be properly classed as weeds. P. hydro- piper is our well-known Smart Weed. P. orientale is the Ragged Sailor or Prince's Feather of the old gardens, which has escaped from the garden in some places and estab- lished itself in the fields. P. cuspidatum (syn. P. Sieboldii) and P. sachalinense, both hardy perennial sorts, are very ornamental, especially when grown as isolated specimens. P. filir forme variegata, is also a favorite hardy sort, its large, drooping, oblong leaves being finely splashed or marbled with pale green and yellow. It is a comparatively late introduc- tion from Japan. P. amplexicaulevax. oxyphyl- lum, happily named the "East Indian Moun- tain Fleece," a native of the Himalayas, intro- duced about 1879, forms a beautiful spreading bush about three feet high, with cordate, lanceolate leaves, and very numerous small white flowers arranged in axillary and termi- nal panicled racemes. The beautiful little drooping basket plant known as P. complexum, is now placed under Muehlenbeckia, which see. P. capitatum is a charming little annual of a spreading habit, with oval grayish-green leaves, with a dark blotch in the centre of each, and numerous globose heads of pink flowers. P. alpinum, a native of the Swiss Alps, grows three to four feet high, with an abundance of pure white flowers, very ser- viceable when quantities of cut flowers are in request. Several other species are in cultiva- tion and are much esteemed for their hardi- ness, graceful habit, and general useful quali- ties. Propagated by division or by seeds. Poly'mnia. A genus of Composite, comprising about a dozen species of rather coarse look- ing plants with yellow flowers, natives of America. Several of the species are much used for sub-tropical gardening in England. P. edulis is cultivated in the Andean region for the sake of its edible tubers. Polymo'rphous. Where a part of, or an entire species, is subject to considerable diversity of form ; assuming various forms. Polype'talous. Having many separate or dis- tinct petals. Polypodia'ceae. A natural order of Ferns comprising nearly all that are known, the other orders, Marattiacece and Ophioglossacea, being of very limited extent. Their chief distinguishing peculiarity consists in the presence of an elastic jointed ring nearly sur- rounding the spore-cases, hence called Annu- late Ferns, while the other two families, 340 POLYGONUM AMPLEXICAULE, YAB. OXTFHYLLUM (MOUNTAIN FLEECE). POLYGON ATOM. POTENTILLA (SINGLE). POTHOS AUKEA. POTENTILLA (DOUBLE). POLYSTICHUM ABISTATUM VARIEGATtJM. POBTULACA GBANDIFLOBA FL. PL. POBTCLACA (SINGLE). 34« AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 341 POL . Marattiacece, etc., in which the ring is abso- lutely wanting, are called Exannulate. Polypo'dium. Polypody. From poly, many, and pous, a foot; referring to its numerous root-like feet. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacem. A very extensive and interesting genus containing many hardy and robust growing native species, as well as the most delicate and choice of the cultivated Ferns. It in- cludes plants of two different modes of growth, each series comprising a number - of species of different kinds of venation, and from all climates. The sori is round, rarely oblong, and is borne on the back of the lobes of the frond. The following may be selected as among the best known and most largely cultivated of the green-house sorts. P. angustatum, P. argutum, P. aureum (syn. Phlebodium aureum), P. Billardieri, P. Brownii, P. Catharince, P. crenatum (syn. Goniophlebium), P. Cyathemfolium, P.decurrens, P. dilitatum, P. Fraxinifolium, P. glaucophyllum, P. Henchmanni, P. Juglandifolium, P. lingua (syn. Niphobolus), P. lucidum, P. macrodon, P. morbillosum, P. ParadisecB, P. pectinatum, P. plumosum, P. Phyllitidis, P. subauriculatum, P. vacciniifolium, and many others. Of the hardy species the following will be found most use- ful for the Fernery or rock-garden, especially as some of them are evergreen. P. achrosti- choides, P. alpestre (a species much resemb- ling the Lady-Fern, Asplenium Filix-Faimina), P. Californicum, P. Dryopteris, P. Phegopteris, P. trichodes (syn. Lastraia tenericaulis), and P. vulgare, with its many elegant varieties, P. v. cambricum, P. v. elegantissimum, etc. This genus has been so divided up by various bot- anists that it is hard to tell under which . genera to find the various species. The fol- lowing genera, with some others, are now by many botanists included under Polypodium, Aglaomorpha, Campyloneuron, Cryptosorus, Dictymia, Dictyopteris, Drynaria, Goniophle- bium, Goniopteris, Lepicystis, Microgramme, Niphobolus, Phegopteris, Phlebodium, Phy- matodes, Pleopeltis, Pseudathyrium, etc. The various species require good drainage and plenty of water while growing, with a temperature proportionate to that of the country from which they have been intro- duced. They are all easily increased by division, or from spores. Polypody. See Polypodium. Polypo'gon. Beard Grass. From poly, many, and pogon, a beard. Nat. Ord. Graminacece. A small genus of handsome grasses, sparingly met in the older settled parts of this country, having become naturalized from . Europe. They have no agricultural value. Polyse'palous. Having many separate sepals. Polysta'chya. From poly, many, and stachys, a spike ; alluding to the inflorescence of some of the species. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A genus of about forty species of epiphytal Orchids, natives of Africa, India, the Malayan Archipelago, and tropical America. This is an interesting genus much resembling, and requiring the same treatment as Burlingtonia. P. bracteosa, P. hypoerita, and P. rufinula, are the best known and most desirable species. Poly'stichum. From poly, many, and stichus, a row; numerous rows of spore cases. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. PON A genus of Ferns, formerly included in Aspidium, and requiring the same general treatment. Poly'xena. Named after Polyxena, the daugh- ter of Priam. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. A genus of South African bulbous plants, now included by some as a section of Mas- sonia. P. odorata, and P. pygmaia, the only species of interest, have small white, deli- ciously, sweet-scented, Hyacinth-like flowers in dense corymbs. They are cultivated more for curiosity than for their beauty. Poma'ceae. A natural order included under Rosaceoe. Pomade'rris. From poma, a lid, and derria, a skin ; alluding to the membraneous covering of the capsule. Nat. Ord. Rhamnacece. A genus of erect, branching, woolly shrubs, natives of Australia and New Zealand, with star-like hairs and alternate, entire, or tooth- ed leaves. Several species are in cultivation, producing a profusion of small yellowish- brown or whitish flowers. M. apetala, forms a small tree, and yields a close-grained wood, called Cooper's wood, and Victorian Hazel. Poma'ria. Named after Pomar, a Spanish phy- sician. Nat. Ord. Leguminoace. A genus of green-house shrubs, mostly South American. P. glandulosa, with yellow flowers in axillary racemes, is the only intro- duced species. This genus is now included by Bentham and Hooker under Csesalpinia. Po'max. From poma, an operculum or lid; referring to the operculum of the fruit. Nat. Ord. RubiacecB. P. umbellata, introduced from Australia in 1826, is an interesting green-house shrub, with greenish white flowers. It is often found in cultivation under the name of P. hirta, or Opercularia umbellata. Pome. A fleshy, many-celled fruit, as an Apple. Pomegranate. See Punica granatum. Pond Lily. See Nymphcea. Pond Weed. The genus Potamogeton. Ponga'mia. Pongam is the Malabar name of P. glabra. Nat. Ord. Leguminosai. P. glabra, the only described species, is an evergreen, green-house shrub with white flowers, which have a showy red calyx, and are borne in loose axillary racemes, three to five inches long. From the seeds of this tree an oil called Kurungi or Poonga Oil, is ex- tracted in India, "which is largely used by the poor classes for burning. Pontede'ria. Pickerel Weed. Named after J. Pontedera, Professor of Botany at Padua. Nat. Ord. PontederiacecB. A genus of native aquatic plants, common in the borders of ponds or creeks. P. cordata, our common Pickerel Weed, is a beautiful plant, with arrow-shaped leaves, producing, in July, long spikes of intense blue flowers. This species can be grown easily in tubs on the lawn, in the same manner as the common . Water Lily (Nymphwa odorata). This genus is now placed under Eichhomea, by some authors. Pontederia'ceae. A small natural order of erect or floating aquatic herbs, mostly natives of America. It comprises four genera, Eich- homea, Heteranthera, Monochoria, and Ponte- deria, and over thirty species. 342 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS PON Ponthei'va. Named in honor of M. de Ponthieu, a French West India merchant who sent a number of plants to Sir Joseph Banks. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A curious genus of stove-house terrestrial Orchids, with tufted roots, dispersed over the warmer parts of America, from the southern United States as far as Brazil. They are but little cultivated and require to be kept dry when not in a growing state. Poor-Man's Weather-Glass. Anagallis arven- sis. Pop Corn. A variety of Zea Mays. Pope's Head. A common name for Melocactus communis. Poplar. The common name of the genus Popu- lus. Athenian. Populus grceca. Berry-bearing. Populus molinifera. Black. Populus nigra. Californian. Populus trichocarpa, and P. Fre- montii. Carolina. Populus molinifera. Downy. Populus heterophylla. Gray. Populus alba, var. canescens. Lombardy. Populus fastigiata. Ontario. Populus balsamifera, var. candicans. Queensland. Carumbium populifolium. Rocky Mountain. Populus angustifolia. Soft or Paper. Populus grandidentata. Western. Liriodendron Tulipiferum. White. Populus alba. Willow-leaved. Populus nigra, var. Salici- folia. Yellow. Liriodendron Tulipiferum. Poppy. The popular name of the genus Papa- ver. Alpine. Papaver alpinum. Blue Himalayan. Meconopsis aculeata. Blue. Wallich's. Meconopsis Wallichii. Californian. Platystemon Californicus, and the genus Eschscholtzia. Carnation. A variety of Papaver somniferum. Cathcart's. Cathcartia villosa. Caucasian. Scarlet. Papaver umbrosum. Celandine. Stylophorum diphyllum. Corn. Papaver Rhceas. "Frothy." Silene infiata. Golden. Papaver croceum. Horned. Glaucium luteum. Iceland. A variety of Papaver nudicaule. Mexican or Prickly. Argemone Mexicana. Opium. Papaver somniferum. Oriental. Papaver orientate. Paeony. A variety of Papaver somniferum. Plume. The genus Bocconia. Sea Side. Glaucium luteum. Tree. Dendromecon rigidum. Welsh. Meconopsis Cambrica. Yellow Arctic. Papaver Nudicaule. Poppy-Mallow. The genus Callirrhoe. Po'pulus. Poplar. Some derive the word Pop- ulus from paipallo, to vibrate or shake ; others suppose it obtained its name from be- ing used in ancient times to decorate the public places in Rome, where it was called Arbor Populi, or the tree of the people. Nat. Ord. Salicacece. A genus of deciduous trees that attain a considerable height, natives of temperate climates of both hemispheres. They are mostly of rapid growth, furnishing timber of a soft, inferior quality. Among the best FOR known and most commonly grown for orna- mental and shade trees are P. fastigiata, the Lombardy Poplar; P. tremuloides, American Aspen ; and P. balsaminifera candicans, Balm of Gilead. Of this species there is a very old specimen at Newburgh, N. Y., supposed to be one of the largest in the United States. It is a tree of magnificent proportions. It is over one hundred years old, and the trunk is nearly ten feet in diameter. It is one of the attractions of that city. The Cotton Wood of the Middle and Southern States is P. molini- fera ; the California Cotton-wood is the com- mon name of P. Fremonlii. Pora'na. Said to be the native name in the East Indies. Nat. Ord. Convolvulacea. A genus of twining, slender shrubs or annuals, natives of the East Indies, the Ma- layan Archipelago, and Australia. Of P. racemosa, introduced from India, in 1823, C. B. Clarke says : " This is the ' Snow-creeper ' of the English, one of the most beautiful of Indian plants, the masses of dazzling white flowers resembling snow-patches in the jungle." Syn. Dinetus. Poranthe'ra. From poros, a pore or opening, and anthera, an anther ; the anthers open by pores. Nat. Ord. Euphorbiaceai. A genus of ornamental green-house Aus- tralian plants, only one of which, P. ericifolia, is yet in cultivation. Its numerous white flowers are borne in pedunculate racemes, forming a dense, terminal, leafy corymb. It was introduced in 1824, aud is increased by seeds. • Pores. Apertures in the cuticle, through which transpiration takes place, or apertures in the anthers through which the pollen is ejected. Porlie'ria. Named after Andrew de Porlier, a Spanish botanist. Nat. Ord. Zygophyllacece. A small genus of rigid shrubs with spread- ing woody branches, natives of Texas, Mexico, and South America. P. hygrometrica, the only introduced species, is a most curious, as well as ornamental shrub, the leaves of which remain open in serene weather, and contract before rain. It was introduced from Peru in 1820, and is propagated by cuttings. Porophyllus. Having porous leaves. Porphyreus. Of a warm reddish color. Po'rtea. A genus formed to include a few spe- cies of Bromeliaceoz, formerly placed under Billbergia and jiEchmea. Portenschla'gia. This genus is now included with EUzodendron. Portla'ndia. Named after a Duchess of Port- land, a distinguished patroness of botany. Nat. Ord. Rubiacece. A small genus of green-house evergreen shrubs, natives of the West Indies and Brazil. They are rarely met in our green-houses, which is to be regretted, as their flowers are splendid ; they are long, pure white, trumpet- shaped, borne in axillary clusters of from two to four each. P. platantha, with pure white flowers, introduced from Brazil in 1849, is of dwarf habit, and is nearly a constant bloomer. They all require a warm house, and are pro- pagated by cuttings of young wood. Several other species with scarlet or white flowers are in cultivation. Portugal Laurel. Cerasus Lusitanica. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 343 POR Portugal Quince. Cydonia vulgaris Lusitanica. Portula'ca. From porto, to carry, and lac, milk ; the juicy nature of the plants. Nat. Ord. Portulacacece. An extensive genus of hardy annuals, mostly natives of South America. Many of them are exceedingly showy and useful plants for the border. The genus also contains some of our most troublesome weeds, among which is P. oleracea, common Purslane. P. grandi- flora is the parent of our many garden varieties. It is a native of Chili, from whence it was introduced in 1827. The double varie- ties are of German origin. We quote from "Hovey's Magazine " an excellent article on this plant: "The double varieties are, in fact, charming objects, and may well claim a prominent place among the novel things of recent introduction. The flowers are perfectly double, about the size of a silver dollar, and a bed of them in full bloom presents a gay ap- pearance, not unlike that of the beautiful Ranunculuses, or the little Burgundy Rose, so that the Germans call them ' Portulaca Roses.' The Portulacas need a warm and rather light soil and a dryish situation to flower well. They need not be planted early, unless in a frame or hot-bed, as the seed will not grow freely till the ground is warm. About the middle of June the plants begin to appear in the open ground, and grow with great rapidity, soon covering a large bed, and mak- ing a dazzling display, with their many-hued flowers, from July to frost. The seeds saved from double varieties, like all other double flowers, cannot be relied upon with certainty to produce all double flowers, but the largest part of them will be double, and the single sorts may be pulled up and thrown away or transplanted, unless it is desired to retain them in the same bed with the double kinds." Portulaca'ceee. A natural order of more or less succulent herbs or shrubs, found in various parts of the world, chiefly, however, in South America and at the Cape of Good Hope, and generally in dry, parched places. The order contains eighteen genera, of which Portulaca, Calandrina, Claytonia, and Talinum, are ex- amples, and about one hundred and fifty spe- cies. Portulaca'ria. So named from its resemblance to Portulaca. Nat. Ord. Portulacacece. P. Afra, the Purslane-tree, introduced from Africa in 1732, is a green-house evergreen shrub, with small, pink flowers and opposite, obovate, fleshy leaves. Young cuttings taken off and dried for a few days, and then potted, will root freely. Posoque'ria. Aymara posoqueri is the name of P. longiflora among the natives of Guiana. Nat. Ord. Rubiaceai. A small genus of shrubs or low-growing trees, natives of the West Indies and Guiana. They are remarkable for their very long, white, hanging flowers, the corolla of which is funnel- shaped, with a very long tube, a hairy throat, and a five-parted limb. One or two of the species are to be found in collections of rare plants. P. revoluta is one of the best, and should be grown in the hot-house. P. longi- flora, with white flowers six inches long, borne in corymbs six to twelve flowered, is also a very showy variety, and is not so often met with as it deserves. They were first in- POT troduced about 1820, and are easily increased by cuttings. Potamoge'ton. Pond Weed. A large genus of submersed or partially floating aquatics ; over twenty of which are natives of this country. They are of no horticultural value. Potato. Solarium tuberosum. The early history of this important plant, as well as the various stages of its development from a tuber not much larger than a marble, watery and com- paratively tasteless, to the present great staple of food, is very obscure. The most accurate and concise account we find in the " Treasury of Botany," written by Mr. W. B. Booth, from which we quote: "The native country of the Potato, and the date of its in- troduction into Britain, have been subjects of much discussion. There can be no doubt of its being indigenous in many parts of South America, plants in a wild state having been found on the Peruvian coast, as well as on the sterile mountains of Central Chili and Buenos Ayres. The Spaniards are believed to have first brought it to Europe from Quito, in the early part of the sixteenth century. It after- ward found its way into Italy, and from thence it was carried into Mons, in Belgium, by one of the attendants of the Pope's legate. In 1598 it was sent from Mons to the cele- brated botanist Clusius at Vienna, who states that in a short time it spread rapidly through- out Germany. The first Potatoes that reached this country (England) were brought from Virginia by the colonists sent out by Sir Walter Raleigh in A. D. 1584, and who returned in 1586. They were planted on Sir Walter's estate near Cork, and were used for food in Ireland long before they were even known or cultivated in England. Gerarde had a plant in his garden at Holborn, and has given a figure of it in his Herbal, published in 1597, under the name of Batata Virginiana. He recommends the roots to be eaten as a delicate dish, and not as common food. In the times of James the First they were so rare as to cost two shillings (sterling) a pound, and are mentioned in 1619 among the articles provided for the royal household. In 1633, when their valuable properties had be- come more generally known, they were deemed worthy of notice by the Royal Society, which took measures to encourage their cul- tivation with a view of preventing famine ; but it was not until nearly a century after the above date that they were grown to any extent in England. In 1725 they were intro- duced into Scotland, and cultivated with much success, first in gardens and afterward (about 1760), when they had become more plentiful, in the open fields. Since that period the prejudices which so long existed against their use, both in England and Scot- land, have gradually vanished, and for many years past the Potato crop has been regarded as a most valuable addition to the staple commodities of life, only second in importance to the cereals." There are six tuber-bearing Solanums out of the total of seven hundred, which Bentham and Hooker estimate as dis- tinct species. Mr. Baker's investigations in England, however, led him to believe that ' ' all the numerous varieties had originated from S. tuberosum. * * * As far as climate is concerned it cannot be doubted that S. Magelia (or the Darwin potato as we 344 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS POT might suitably christen it in English) would be better fitted to succeed in England and Ireland than S. tuberosum, a plant of a comparatively dry climate. "We have indis- putable testimony that S. Maglia and S. Com- mersoni, yield readily an abundant supply of eatable Potatoes. What I would suggest is, that these should be brought into the econom- ic arena, and thoroughly tested as to their economic value, both as distinct types, and when hybridized with the innumerable tuber- osum forms."— J. G-. Baker, in Linn-Soc. Journal of Botany, Vol. XX. The Sweet Potato is the root of Batatas edulis, of the Nat. Ord. Convolvulacem, and its history is quite as obscure as that of the common Potato. The first mention of it is said to be by an author named Pigafetta, who went to Brazil in 1519, and found it in use as an article of food by the Indians. It was soon afterward introduced into Spain, where it has been extensively cultivated ever since. Of this species there are several varieties indi- genous to both the East and West Indies and South America. The Sweet Potato is exten- sively grown in the United States, especially in the Southern States. Potato Oat. The popular name of Arena nuda. Potato Onion. See Onion. Potato, Sweet. See Potato. Potato Vine. Wild. A common name for Ipomaza pandurata. Potenti'lla. Cinquefoil, Five Finger. From potens, powerful ; supposed medicinal quality of some of the species. Nat. Ord. Rosacea*. This is a large genus of very desirable hardy herbaceous plants, and it is somewhat re- markable, when their number (upward of one hundred and thirty species and varieties) and their ornamental character are considered, that so few of them are met with in gardens. The most important, however, are the fine hybrid varieties that have been obtained of late years by hybi-idizing a few of the showy Himalayan species, such as P. insignis and P. atrosanguinea. These two species, the former with clear yellow and the latter with deep, velvety-crimson flowers are well worth grow- ing, as is also the beautiful rosy-pink P. colorata, a plant that flowers throughout the summer. The double-flowered kinds are most showy, and they possess the additional advantage of lasting in perfection a longer time than the single sorts, both on the plants and in the cut state. Among the dwarf alpine species there are some vei'y beautiful plants that are indispensable to the rock- garden. P. alba, P. alpestris, P. ambigua, P. calabra, P. nitida, and P. Pyrenaica, are excellent species for this purpose. They grow without trouble in any tolerably good soil, and produce their scarlet, orange, yel- low, crimson, and rose-colored double and single flowers in great abundance. The species are common to both hemispheres, and are propagated readily from seeds or by division. They were first introduced in 1680. Pote'rium. Burnet. Name from poterium, a drinking cup, as its herbage, which has much the flavor of Cucumber, was employed in the POT old English drink known as "cool tankard." Nat. Ord. Rosacea}. P. sanguisorba, the only cultivated species, is a hardy perennial, indigenous to the dry, chalky hills of Great Britain. It grows from a few inches to two feet high, according to the situation. In some parts of England it forms much of the turf, which is considered excel- lent pasturage for sheep; it was formerly extensively cultivated as a fodder plant, but it is now but very little grown in that way. It is now used occasionally as a salad plant, the leaves having somewhat the taste and smell of Cucumbers. A variety known as Great Burnet, very similar in form, but some- what larger, and with oval heads of purple flowers, is cultivated to a considerable extent in Germany for fodder, but it does not find much favor where clover will grow. Po'thos. From Pothos, the name of a species in Ceylon. Nat. Ord. Aroidew. A genus of climbing shrubs, natives of India, China, and New Holland. They are epiphytal and have cord-like stems, sending out false roots here and there, and attaching them- selves to trees. A few of the species have very handsome foliage, and are grown in the green-house for the sake of their leaves. The beautiful variegated species known in culti- vation as P. aurea, and P. argyrma, are now placed under Scindapsus. The leaves of P. palmata are three feet long, and the foot-stalks four. They were first introduced in 1790, and are increased by cuttings. Pot Marigold. See Calendula. Pottery Tree. A common name applied to Moquilea utilis. Potting. The first operation of potting is when the rooted cutting is transferred from the cutting bed, or the seedling from the seed box to the pot. Almost without exception, cuttings or seed- lings should be placed in pots not exceeding two and a half inches in diameter. We, in our own practice, invariably use pots two and a quarter inches in diameter at the top, and of the same depth. Booted cuttings do much better in the smaller size, for the reason that the small amount of soil in the 2J^-inch pot allows the moisture to pass off quickly, and thus prevents the soil from becoming sodden for want of air, which would be the case if the cutting had been potted in a 3 or 4-inch pot, as amateur gardeners sometimes do. The potting of cuttings is very simple, and in commercial gardens is performed with great rapidity, average workmen doing 300 plants per hour. One of our workmen obtained almost national fame in this operation, as he had repeatedly potted 10,000 plants in ten hours, his average being 6,000 per day. The pot is filled to the level with soil, a space made with the finger in the centi-e of the soil of sufficient size to admit the root, which is placed in the opening thus made ; the soil is closed in again by pressing with the thumbs close to the neck of the cutting, which firms the soil around the root. But when plants are required to be grown as specimens, or of larger size, they must be repotted at intervals, as the condition of their growth demands. For example, to grow a Geranium of a height of three feet and three feet in diameter, a pot of at least eight inches across at top, and eight inches in depth, would AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 345 POT be necessary, but it would not do to move from the 23^-inch cutting pot to this size at once ; three or four different shifts are neces- sary. These shifts should be made, as a general thing, not greater than from a 2)^-inch size to a 3-inch, and so on. The time to shift a plant from a smaller to a larger pot is known by the roots beginning to show around the outer surface of the ball. It is not necessary to shift when the first roots touch the side of the pot ; let them curl pretty well around the ball, but they must not be allowed to remain long enough to become hard or woody. They must be of that condi- tion which we call "working roots," a condi- tion not very easy to describe, unless to say that the appearance of such roots is white, soft, and succulent. In most cases the slightest tap on the edge of the pot is sufficient to turn out the ball of earth.' Soil, in depth according to the size of the plant, should be placed in the bottom of the pot, the ball placed in the centre, and the soil packed moderately firm in the space, either by the fingers or by a stick made of suitable size for the purpose. When plants are first potted off, or shifted, they should be stood with the pots touching each other, if the diameter of the plant is less than that of the pot ; but, as they begin to develop growth, the plants should be spread an inch or so apart to admit air between the pots ; this greatly strengthens the plants, and inclines them to a stocky growth. Though we, in our own practice, use drainage in few kinds of plants except Roses, yet it is perhaps safer to the unpracticed cultivator to use it. See Drainage. The amateur is warned against the common practice of placing plants in too large pots. As a general thing, when plants are received from the florist they are without pots, and are usually in a condition requiring them to be shifted into a pot larger than they have been growing in. For example, if they have been grown in a pot of three inches diameter, place them in one a size larger, or four inches in diameter ; if they were in four-inch pots, give them one live or six inches across, and so on. Florists, as a rule, do not practice crocking or draining pots until the pots get to a size over four inches, and not often then, because, having pots of all sizes on hand, they do not need to give plants any larger shift than nec- essary, and hence there is less need for drainage ; but often the amateur has to change a plant that has been grown in a pot of three inches diameter into one of six inches, and then it is necessary to fill up one- third of this too large pot with broken pots, charcoal, or some such material, to drain off the surplus moisture that would otherwise be injurious, in consequence of the pot being too large for the plant ; but if the pot into which it is shifted is properly ad- justed to the wants of the plant, the putting in of crocks for drainage may be dispensed with. The need of a larger pot is shown by the earth becoming so filled with roots that they will cover the outside of the ball ; but shifting into a larger pot should be done while the roots are yet white. If left until the roots get thoroughly matted, brown and hard, it is too late, and the future growth will be seri- ously retarded. If the plant has been allowed to reach this condition, which we call " pot PR.E bound," it is best to lay the ball of roots on one hand and slap it smartly, so as to loosen it. By this treatment the new fibres strike out more readily from the hard roots than if left with the ball still compact. After shifting a plant give it one good watering, so that the soil will be thoroughly soaked to the bottom of the pot, but after that keep rather dry until there are indications of new growth. When it is inconvenient to shift winter-flow- ering plants into larger pots, they will be greatly benefited by stirring up the soil on the surface of the pots to a depth of an inch or so, or down to where the young roots ap- pear, taking care not to disturb these too much. Throw away the old soil and replace by rich, fresh soil, in which one-twentieth part may be bone-dust. This is called " top- dressing." See "Winter-Flowering Plants." Pouch. A little sack or bag at the base of some sepals and petals ; the term is also applied to a sillicle or short-pod, as of the Shepherd's Purse. Pounce. The powdered gum resin procured from Juniperus communis. Pourou'ma. The native name in Guiana. Nat. Ord. UrticaceoB. A genus of about thirty species of trees, natives of tropical South America. P. edulis, the only species of interest, has leaves green above and bluish-white beneath, as large as those of Wigandia imperialis, and is an excel- lent plant for sub-tropical decoration. The fruit, which is produced in clusters like Hazel-nuts, is much esteemed by the natives of Columbia. The genus is closely related to Artocarpus. Pourre'tia. In honor of Abbe Pourret, a French botanist and traveller in Spain. Nat. Ord. BromeliacecB. A genus of ornamental green-house plants, differing but little from BUlbergia, and requir- ing the same management. All the species are natives of South America, and are pro- pagated by suckers. Syn. Dyckia. Fourthiae'a. Named in memory of the French missionary Pourthie, massacred in the Corea in 1866. Nat. Ord. Rosacem. A genus established by Decaisne for a number of plants peculiar to the Himalayas, China, and Japan, long confounded with the allied genus Photina, which they resemble in general appearance. P. arguta, a native of the Himalayas from Sikkim to the Kashya Hills and to Burmah, is a graceful hardy shrub with slender spreading branches and lanceo- late, or elliptical, opposite leaves, pointed at both ends, finely and sharply serrate, covered, when young, with short scattered white hairs, but becoming perfectly glabrous at maturity. The flowers are pure white, borne in flat, few- flowered, cyme-like corymbs followed by small, globose, one or two seeded pomes. The divergent habit of the branches and flower- bearing, lateral branchlets, give to this plant a peculiar and striking appearance. It flowered for the first time in this country in the Arnold Arboretum this season (1889). Poverty Grass. See Aristida. Prsecox. Early ; appearing or flowering earlier than other allied species. Praemorse. Ending abruptly as if bitten off. 346 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OP PLANTS PRA Prairie Clover. The genus Petalostemon. Pratensis. Belonging to or growing in mea- dows. Pra'tia. Named after M. Prat-Bemon, a French naval officer. A small genus of Campanulacece, consisting of little creeping herbaceous plants growing usually in marshy places, natives of the southern part of South America, Australia, New Zealand, and India. P. angulata, intro- duced from New Zealand in 1879, is an extremely pretty little creeper for rockwork. P. repens, from the Falkland Islands, is also well adapted for a like situation. Pre'mna. From premnon, the stump of a tree, in allusion to the low stems of most of the species. Nat. Ord. Verbenacece. A genus of over thirty species of tropical shrubs or trees. Few of the species are in cultivation. Prena'nthes. From prenes, drooping, and anthos, a flower ; on account of the drooping flower-heads. Nat. Ord. Composite. A genus now restricted to a few European and Asiatic herbs. P. purpurea, the only species of interest common in mountainous or hilly woods in central and southern Europe, is a tall erect herb, with oblong-lanceolate, stem-clasping leaves, and a large, loose, ter- i minal panicle of elegantly drooping purple flower-heads. It may be increased by seeds or by division. Prepu'sa. From the Greek word, prepo, which means " I am handsome ;" on account of the beauty of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Gentianaceaz. A small genus of erect, slightly-branched green-house plants, natives of Brazil. P. Hookeriana, the only species yet in cultivation, has beautiful large, white and crimson flowers, and opposite, slightly fleshy leaves. It was s i introduced in 1839, and is increased by seeds ' L, or by cuttings of the young shoots. • *Presco'ttia. Named after John D. Prescott, a i botanist of St. Petersburg. Nat. Ord. Orchid- . acece. A genus of terrestrial Orchids, natives of tropical America. Only a few species are in cultivation ; they are more interesting botani- cally than they are beautiful. Pre'slia. Named in honor of C. B. and I. S. Presl, of Prague, authors of " Flora Sicula " and other works. Nat. Ord. Labiatm. P. cervina, the only species, is a hardy, prostrate, perennial herb, with pale, purplish flowers, allied to Mentha. It is a native of the western Mediterranean region, is of easy culture in any soii, and may be rapidly in- creased by division. Presto'nia. Named in honor of C. Preston, M. D., a correspondent of Ray. Nat. Ord. Apocynacece. A genus of tall climbing or twining shrubby plants, natives of tropical America. P. venosa has yellowish-green flowers, pale in the centre, and produced in drooping racemes. It is per- haps the only species in cultivation, and forms a pretty specimen when trained upon pillars or on a balloon-trellis. Syn. Echites nutans. Pretty Pace. Calliprora (Brodima) lutea. Pricking off. This is a term used by gardeners for the process of transplanting small seed- lings as soon as they are fit to handle, and PRI replanting them closely together, preparatory to being planted in pots or in the open ground. It is distinguished from planting proper, inas- much as the " pricking off " process is always preparatory to the final planting. For ex- ample, when Tomatoes come up thickly in the seed bed, they must be pricked off at a distance of an inch or so apart in a hot-bed, again to be planted, either wider or in the open air. If this is not done as soon as they are fit to handle, the plants will spindle and get weak, and often will die off altogether from damping. Prickles. Sharp elevations of the bark, coming off with it, as of the Rose. Prickly Ash. See Xanthoxylon Fraxineum. Prickly Cedar. Cyathodes Oxycedrus. Prickly Comfrey. See Symphytum. Prickly Pear. See Opuntia. Prickly Poppy. See Argemone. Pride of Barbadoes. Cmsalpina pulcherrima. Pride of Columbia. Phlox speciosa. Pride of India or China. Melia Azedarach. Pride-weed. Erigeron Canadensis. Prie'stleya. Named in honor of the celebrated Dr. Priestly. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A genus of handsome Cape plants, with bril- liant yellow flowers. They grow best in very sandy loam, which must be well drained. The necessary water must be given cautiously at all times, especially in winter, when great care must be taken to keep the leaves dry, for if wetted then they die off, and thus weaken the plant. The ornamental character of the genus is sufficiently great, however, to deserve all the necessary attention. Propagated by cuttings of well-ripened wood. Introduced in 1800. Prim. One of the common names of Ligustrum. Primrose. Primula, especially the popular name of Primula vulgaris. Primrose. Birds-eye. Primula farinosa. Primrose. Cape. See Streptocarpus. Primrose. Chinese. P. Sinensis. Syn. P. pramitens. Primrose. Evening. JEnothera biennis. Pri'mula. Primrose. From primus, the first ; in allusion to the early flowering of the plants. Nat. Ord. Primulacem. This extensive genus includes three of the most popular and beautiful of florist's flowers, viz., the Auricula, the Polyanthus, and the Primrose. Of each, there are almost innumer- able varieties. The Auricula, Primula Auricula, is a native of the Alps of Switzerland, and the mountainous countries adjoining, whence it was called, when first introduced in 1596, the Mountain or French Cowslip. It was also called Bear's Ear or Oricola, whence the modern name of Auricula. Parkinson, in 1629, enumerates twenty varieties, which he says were the best, though "many other varieties were to be found with those who are curious conservers of these delights of nature." The alpine Auriculas, though hardy in Britain, will not, however, endure the rigor of our winters without protection, and as much care is needed to protect them against the sun as the cold. Notwithstanding this they may be grown easily in pots or planted out in cold AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 347 PRI frames or in a cold green-house in the same manner as Pansies, in order that they may be better protected from storms, that destroy the powdery bloom upon the surface of the flower, its greatest feature of beauty, and also to enhance its commercial value. The Auricula is propagated by division of the root, or by cutting off slips with a por- tion of the root attached ; but a still better plan is to sow seed in March, which make fine flowering plants the next season. We use this method exclusively. The common Prim- rose, P. vulgaris (syn. P. acaulis), which grows wild and abundantly in Britain and on the con- tinent of Europe, has been a favorite with American planters for generations, and may be found taking care of itself in old-fashioned gardens for years, especially north of Massa- chusetts where it is protected by heavy snows all winter. F. L. Temple, of Cambridge, Mass., in a communication to "Garden and Forest," 1888, says: "I never knew it, how- ever, to establish itself outside of the rich soil and limited space of the garden where it was given a place by man, until the past season, when I was shown a locality in Massachusetts where it took possession of a piece of pasture along the sides of a brook, and among scat- tered clumps of the Barberry and other shrubs. In this heavy, clayey soil it was perfectly at home, and thousands of vigorous plants were disputing successfully with grasses and weeds for a chance to live. This spot, in spring, when these beautiful blossoms are like a brilliant carpet of crimson and yellow, cover- ing many square rods with their bloom, and peeping out of the half-shaded nooks among the wild undergrowth, is a sight to be long remembered by anyone who knows and loves this old Primrose. This is the only case, as far as I know, in which the English Primrose has become really established and capable of propagating itself permanently so far north, and it is hoped that this hardy strain of these wholly delightful blossoms may hereafter pro- vide us with a race of these Primroses which will be really hardy throughout a considerable part of the Northern States." The Polyanthus, probably derived from a cross between the Primrose and the Cowslip, P. officinalis (syn. P. veris) has been in cultivation for many years, and is one of the most popular of Florists' flowers, especially in Britain. There are a great number of varieties from light yellow or straw color to deep maroon, with an endless variety of shades and markings. The section known as the "Gold-laced" is, however, the most admired, the flowers of which are distinguished by a clear even margin or lacing of gold, then a ground or body-color, similarly well defined, with a stripe passing through the centre of each division to the eye. The pip, as a single flower is termed, should be large, flat and round, with the exception of five or six small divi- sions on the margin. Besides these varieties there are others designated respectively, "Fancy" and "Hose in Hose." Fancy varieties are of various hue, the plants being of vigorous habit ; and some of the Hose in Hose sorts are curious and very uncommon. P. obconica, a species introduced from central China in 1882 with pale lilac, almost white flowers, is a much admired species for spring and early summer flowering. Unfortunately PRI its leaves and flowers have, to some persons, poisonous properties similar to those of the Poison Ivy, and persons susceptible to plant poisons should handle it with caution. Many new and distinct species, among them several absolutely different from anything previously known, have of late years been introduced from the Himalayas, China and Japan, but which have not yet been cultivated enough to show if they are suited to our climate or not. P. Sinensis (syn. prcenitens), and its varie- ties, are extensively grown as plants for pot-culture for the sitting-room or the green-house, as well as for use in winter for cut-flowers. To get strong plants it is best to sow the seeds about March or April ; the English plan of sowing in July or August will not answer well in our hot, dry climate. The seed should be sown in shallow boxes, which may be two inches or so in depth ; the soil used may be good friable loam, which should be sifted fine and pressed down nicely with a smooth board, so that it is perfectly level ; on this smooth level surface of soil sow the seeds thickly, and press them down into the soil, which will sink them level with the smooth surface. Next take sphagnum moss (dry refuse hops or leaf mould will also do, but moss is best) and rub it through a sieve as fine as a mosquito-wire, and sift this pulverized moss over the seed just thick enough to cover the seeds up, which will be something about the one-sixteenth part of an inch. This covering is light, and, at the same time, its spongy character keeps the seeds in the necessary condition of moisture for ger- mination. We have found that this method for the sprouting of all seeds that are diffi- cult of germination is excellent, so that if the seeds have any vitality whatever, germina- tion is certain. After the Primulas have started to a full development of the seed leaf, they are "pricked off" in the same sort of shallow box that the seeds were started in, at a distance of half an inch or so apart. If this is not promptly done there is great danger of the young plants being attacked by a species of fungus, which is quickly fatal. In from four to six weeks after the young Primulas have been growing in these boxes they will be of sufficient size to be placed in two and a half inch pots ; and by about this time the weather will have become warm, and the plants should be placed in the coolest place to be obtained with partial shade. If the plants will remain without shifting until Sep- tember, do not shift them, as our experience has shown that they keep best through the hot summer months if rather cramped for pot room. As soon as cool weather comes in fall they begin to grow rapidly, and if judi- ciously shifted into larger pots as the balls be- come filled with roots, they will make beauti- ful plants from twelve to eighteen inches in diameter, which will flower in profusion from November to May. Although the double varieties are also raised from seed, yet, like nearly all double flowers, quite a proportion of the seed saved from double flowers will come single ; and though many fine double flowers are thus produced, yet exact types can never be depended on from seed, so that, as a rule, the double kinds, particularly the Double White, which is the kind most valued for winter flowers, are grown exclusively from 348 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS PEI cuttings or by division. This variety has a tendency to break into from six to twelve crowns or shoots, and the simplest way to divide these up is to fill up to the lower leaves with moss, which quickly induces the crowns or shoots to root into it, and when thus well- rooted, the plant is pulled apart and each shoot or crown separately potted. This moss- ing process for division may be done at any season, but it is safest during the spring or fall months : say during April and May in spring, or September and October in the fall. As the Primrose is at all times impatient of heat and disturbance of the roots, this divis- ion of the plant had better be avoided during hot weather. The first Double White Prim- rose was originated by John Henderson, now of Flushing, L. I., but of London in 1836, when the Double White was raised. Mr. Henderson has furnished us the following brief but interesting particulars in regard to its origin: " I raised the Double White Chi- nese Primrose in 1836, and exhibited it at the Horticultural Society of London in January, 1837, and was awarded the Silver Banksian Medal for it. It was raised in this way : In the winter of 1835-6 we had a fine strain of fimbriated Primulas ; and in order to preserve the true stock, I selected the finest, and placed them on a shelf near the glass, and during the flowering season constantly impregnated the flowers. The seeds were sown in June, and among the seedlings were about eighteen plants that came with double flowers, both purple and white, some plain-edged, others fimbriated. The one selected as the best is that still in cultivation, and known as the Double White." A double purple, in the same style as the white, was also raised by Mr. Henderson, and is still grown. The Japan Primrose, Primula Japonica, is a noble species of recent introduction, bearing flowers of a deep crimson rose, arranged in from three to six whorls of many flowers each, on a strong, straight stem from one to two feet high. This plant is a favorite in England, but is worthless in our dry, hot climate. Of the genus Primula this country furnishes but few species, and they are of little interest to its flora. Dr. C. C. Parry found a beautiful low-growing species in the Bocky Mountains, with purple and yellow flowers. It finds its home in very high latitudes, where it is con- stantly watered from the melting snow. From this peculiarity it cannot be successfully grown in our houses or borders. There are many other species included in this genus, mostly interesting, but not of special import- ance. We only add Primula veris, the com- mon English Cowslip, and P. elatior, the com- mon Ox-lip. Primula'ceae. A natural order of herbaceous plants generally with a perennial rhizome, natives chiefly of temperate and cold regions in the Northern Hemisphere ; in the tropics occupying lofty situations. The species are more remarkable for their beauty than for the little economic value they possess. Primula, Androaace, Glaux, and Cyclamen, occur amongst the genera, which are over thirty in number and comprise nearly two hundred and fifty species. Princeps. Chief, principal. PRO Prince's Feather. Amaranthus hypochondria- cus, also a common name for Polygonum orien- tate. Pri'noa. Winter Berry. The ancient name of the Holly, which some of the species resem- ble. Nat. Ord. Aquifoliacece. Very handsome berry-bearing, hardy, decid- uous shrubs, common from Maine to Virginia and southward. P. verticillata, is the Black Alder or Winter Berry. It is covered with glossy red berries during most of the winter. P. kevigata, is the Smooth Winter Berry. The fruit is larger than in the preceding, and rip- ens earlier in the fall ; but the berries are of the same glossy red. These two species are beautiful plants, especially in the winter, and are worthy of a place in the shrubbery or on the lawn. They are used in the winter for decorative purposes. P. glabra is the Ink Berry, the fruit of which is black. It is a less desirable plant than the species named above. Professor Gray has placed these plants in the genus Ilex. Prio'nium. From prionion, a small saw ; allud- ing to the serrated leaves. Nat. Ord. Junca- cem. P. Palmita, Palmiet, the native name, is a very remarkable rush, found on the banks of rivers in South Africa. It often increases to such an extent as to choke the rivers in which it grows, and produces a network of strong, black fibre, suitable for brush making; the leaves themselves are useful for plaiting and thatching. Prismatic. Prism-shaped ; having several lon- gitudinal angles and intermediate flat faces, as the calyx of Frankenia pulverulenta. Prismatoca'rpus. From prisma, prismatos, a prism, and karpos, a fruit; alluding to the long prismatic form of the fruit. Nat. Ord. Campanulacem. A genus of green-house or hardy perennial herbs or shrubs, natives of South Africa. P. nitidus, the best known species, has white flowers, two to four in a cluster, towards the top of the branches. Better known in culti- vation under the name of Campanula prisma- tocarpus. Pritcha'rdia. A commemorative name. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. A genus of Palms inhabiting California and the Sandwich Islands. The best known is P. Pacifica, a spineless tree with fan-shaped, deeply-cut leaves, covered with white down when young. The fruit of this Palm is de- scribed as almost like a black-heart Cherry. The leaves are used as fans and umbrellas by the chiefs, who are alone permitted to use them. In a shower of rain the leaves are so worn on the back of the head as to send the water behind the wearer. Some of the species are under cultivation. P. filifera, is now called Washingtonia filifera, which see. Pri'va. A name of unknown meaning, given by Adanson. Nat. Ord. VerbenacecB. A genus of erect perennial herbs, with a woody or tuberous rhizome ; widely distrib- uted through tropical America, Africa and India. P. kevis, introduced from the Argen- tine Republic in 1833, is the only species of interest, but it is not much cultivated. Privet. See Ligustrum. Proboscideus. Trumpet-like ; proboscis-like. PRIMULA ELATIOR (OX-LIP). PRIMULA OBCONICA. PRIMULA SINENSIS PRIMULA SINENSIS FILICIFOLIA. PRIMULA JAPONICA. PRIMULA SINENSIS FTMBRIATA. fifj^f^^ PRIMULA VULGARIS. t & x I > 1 P.'&riA'.'T.. PROPAGATING BY LAYERING POPPY (DOUBLE WHITE TIPPED WITH ROSE). PROPAGATION (SAUCER) PRIMULA AURICULA. PRIMULA SINENSIS FL. PL. PRIMULA SINENSIS SEMI-PLENA 349 AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 349 PRO Procerus. Very tall. Process. A term applied to any projection from the surface or edge of a body, whether natural or monstrous. Procession Flower. A popular name for Poly- gala vulgaris. Pro'ckia. A commemorative name. Nat.Ord. Liliacece. A genus of two or three described species, probably all varieties of P. cruris, a beautiful yellow-flowered, very fragrant plant, introduc- ed from the West Indies in 1825. It requires warm green-house treatment, and is propa- gated by cuttings of the half ripened shoots. Procle'sia. Commemorative of Procles, king of Sparta. Nat. Ord. Vacciniacea. A genus of handsome evergreen shrubs or small trees, natives of the mountains of trop- ical America. P. acuminata, with bright red flowers, covered when in bud by scarlet bracts, and P. cordifolia, with bright red flow- .ers, white on the margins, are the two best known species, and were introduced from New Grenada in 1865. They are sometimes found in cultivation under the name of Thibaudia, but Bentham and Hooker now place this genus under Cavendishia. Procumbent. Lying flat upon the ground. Proliferous. A plant is said to be proliferous when it forms young plants in abundance about its roots ; also when buds are formed along the edges of the leaves or otherwise. Promenae'a. Derivation of name unknown. Nat. Ord. Orchidaceai. A small genus of low-growing, very pretty Orchids from Brazil, formerly classed with Maxillaria. They are usually grown as curi- osities rather than for show; their height rarely exceeds three inches. Pronay'a. Named after M. Pronay, a French naturalist. Nat. Ord. PittosporaceoR. A genus of green-house evergreen climbers from Swan River. P. elegans, the best known species, is a showy plant with terminal clus- ters of pale lilac flowers. It has the habit of Sollya, to which it is nearly allied, but is in- ferior in beauty. It was introduced in 1837, and is propagated by cuttings. Syn. Spiran- thera Fraseri, Prone. Lying flat, particularly face down- wards. Propagation by Seeds. The most natural way of increasing plants is by seeds ; and when- ever it is practicable to do so, it is preferable to all others, so that in our own practice, any plant of which we can procure the seed, we rarely increase in any other way, unless, of course, in cases where particular varieties are wanted that we know will not reproduce themselves from seed, so as to be certain of color or form; but in all cases where seed taken from a variety or species will reproduce itself exactly, or in cases where a general variety is wanted, the propagation by seed is invariably practiced. As propagation by seeds refers more usually to ornamental plants cultivated under glass, we will briefly re-=- late our own practice, which we have greatly improved during the past few years, and in which we have obtained almost unfailing sat- isfactory results. We have found that seeds sown in shallow boxes, from one and a half to PRO two inches deep, can be given a far more uni- form degree of moisture than when sown in earthern flower-pots or earthen seed-pans made especially for that purpose. These boxes are made from the ordinary soap box, from four to five being made from each, with the bottom boards so put on as to allow free escape of moisture, though, of course, not so wide apart as to allow the soil to wash through. If wanted in large quantities the boxes in which sheet tin is imported is ex- actly what is wanted. These boxes are filled with finely sifted soil, such as has been run through a sieve, as fine as mosquito netting. This surface is then made perfectly level and smooth, and the seeds sown on it as evenly as possible, and in thickness corresponding to the variety sowed, though it must be here remembered that in "union there is strength," and that, if sown too thin, weak seeds may fail to press up the soil if isolated too much. After the seeds are sown, and before they are covered, they are pressed down by a smooth board into the soil, so that the surface is again smooth and level. The seed box is now ready for its covering. For the past year we have used finely-sifted Moss (Spaghnum) exclusively for covering. To prepare this it is rubbed through a mos- quito wire sieve when dry, and sifted over the seed only thick enough to cover it, usually about one-sixteenth part of an inch. In the absence of Moss, dry refuse hops, cocoanut fibre or leaves will answer, prepared in the same manner, the great object being to use a material light in weight, having non-conduct- ing properties, and that will thus hold the moisture uniformly. Of all these, we think Moss the best, and now use nothing else as its sponge-like character keeps just the right degree of moisture wanted. These seed boxes should be placed in the open sunlight, in the windows of the dwelling room, in the hot-bed or green-house, and never shaded, in a tem- perature running from 55 degrees to 65 de- grees at night, with 10 degrees higher during the day ; and if a proper degree of moisture is applied, say a slight sprinkling once a week, if there is life in the seed, germination is certain. As soon as the seeds are grown so as to attain the first true leaves (that is, the first leaves that show after the seed- leaves), they must be " pricked off "(which see) carefully in soft, light soil, similar to that used for the seeds, at from one to two inches apart, according to the kind. This will not only prevent them from damping off, as many of them are very apt to do, but they will be much stronger and suffer less when put into flower pots or replanted in the open ground. We prefer to replant the seedlings in the shallow boxes already described. And here we again find that if the soil is mixed with half its bulk of sifted Sphagnum we get a far better development of fibrous roots. They are more portable thus than if planted again in the soil of the hot-bed or bench of the green-house, though, of course, after planting in the boxes these are put again in the hot- bed or green-house. After the seedlings have been planted in these boxes, lightly water them and shade for two or three days. To such as have not the convenience of a hot-bed or green-house, vegetable or flower seeds may be sown in the shallow boxes 350 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS PRO above mentioned, and placed in the window of a south or east room, where the thermom- eter does not average less than sixty-five degrees. Success would be more complete, however, if panes of glass were placed over the seeds, resting on the edge of the box an inch or so from the soil. This would prevent evaporation, and render watering less neces- sary. Pkopagation of Plants by Cuttings. As now understood, this is a simple matter. Formerly no operation in horticulture was more be- fogged by ignorant pretenders, who, in writ- ing or speaking on the subject, so warped the operation with troublesome conditions as to discourage, not only amateurs in horticulture, but inexperienced professional gardeners as well. One of the first necessary conditions in the propagation of plants by cuttings is, that the plant from which the cutting or slip is taken must be in vigorous health. If weak or tainted by disease, failure is almost certain to result. If, for example, we wish to root cuttings of green-house or bedding plants, such as Bou- vardias, Chrysanthemums, Fuchsias, Geran- iums, Heliotropes, Salvias, Verbenas, etc., one of the best guides to the proper condition is when the cutting breaks or snaps clean off instead of bending or kneeing ; if it snaps off so as to break, then it is in the condition to root freely ; if it bends it is too old and though it will root, it will root much slower, and make a weaker plant than the slip that snaps off on being bent. With exceptions so few, and those of so little importance that it is hardly worth while to allude to them, cuttings of all kinds root freely from slips taken from the young wood, that is, the succulent growth, before it gets hardened, and when in the con- dition indicated by the " snapping test," as it is called. We believe we were the first to call attention to this valuable test of the condition of the cutting (snapping) in our work, " Prac- tical Floriculture," first published in 1868. A very general idea is current, that cuttings must be cut at or below an eye or joint. The practice of this system leads undoubtedly to many cases of failure ; not that the cutting at or below a joint either hinders or assists the formation of roots, but from the fact that, when a slip is cut at a joint, the shoot often has become too hard at that point, while half an inch higher up or above the joint, the proper condition will be found. We know that it will root even when in the too hard condition, but the roots emitted will be hard and slender, and, as a consequence, will not be likely to make a plant of the same vigor as that made from the cutting in the proper state ; besides, as the hard cutting takes double the time to root, its chances of damp- ing off from unfavorable atmospheric con- ditions are thus increased. With these in- structions for the proper state of the cutting, we now proceed to describe the medium wherein it is to be placed, and the conditions of temperature, moisture, etc. If these are strictly followed, failure is an impossibilty; for the laws governing the rooting of a slip are as certain as those governing the germi- nation of a seed. In our own practice, when these conditions are strictly followed, failure is unknown. The most proper condition of temperature PRO to root cuttings of the great majority of green- house and bedding plants is sixty-five degrees of bottom heat, indicated by a thermometer plunged in the sand of the bench, and an atmospheric temperature of fifteen degrees less. A range of ten degrees may be allowed, that is, five degrees lower or five degrees higher, but the nearer the heat of the sand can be kept to sixty-five degrees, and that of the rest of the house to fifty degrees, the more perfect the success will be. Sand is the best medium in which to place cuttings ; color or texture is of no special importance. What we use is the ordinary sand used by builders ; this is laid on the hot-bed or bench of the green-house to the depth of about three inches and firmly packed down. When " bottom heat" is wanted, the flue or pipes under the bench of the green-house are boarded in so that the heat strikes the bottom of the bench, thus raising the temperature in the sand. From the time the cuttings are inserted in the sand until they are rooted, they should never be allowed to get dry ; in fact, our prac- tice is to keep the sand soaked with water, the cutting bench being watered copiously every morning, and often, when the atmosphere is dry, again in the evening. Kept thus satur- ated, there is less chance of the cutting getting wilted, either by heat from the sun or from fire heat ; for if a cutting once gets wilted, its juices are expended, and it becomes in the condition of a hard cutting, in the condition in which, when bent, it will not snap nor break, which has already been described. To avoid this wilting or flagging of the cutting, every means that will suggest itself to the propa- gator is to be used. Our practice is to shade and ventilate in the propagating house or hot- bed just as soon in the forenoon as the action of the sun's rays on the glass raises the tem- perature of the house to sixty-five degrees or seventy degrees. This practice of ventilating the propagating house or hot-bed is, we are aware, not in very common use ; many con- tending that the place where the propagating is done should at all times be kept close. We have tried both methods long enough and extensively enough to satisfy us beyond all question, that ventilating and propagating at a low temperature is capable of producing a larger number of plants during the season than at a high temperature and in a close atmosphere. There need be no failures ; and it has the important advantage of producing a healthy stock, which the close or high tem- perature system would fail to do in the case of many plants. We have often heard propa- gators boasting of rooting cuttings in five days. We are well aware that this may be done, but we are also aware that it is often done in damp and cloudy weather at the risk of the whole crop, and it must be done at a high temperature, which at all times causes the plants to draw up slender, and thus impairs their vigor. Permitting a moderate circulation of air in the propagating house tends to prevent the germination of that spider-web-like substance which, for want of a better term, is known among gardeners as the " fungus of the cut- ting bench." Everyone who has had any ex- perience in propagating, knows the baneful effects of this ; how that, in one night, it will AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 351 PRO often sweep off thousands of cuttings that a few hours before were in healthful vigor. But this dangerous enemy of the propagator re- quires, like vegetation of higher grades, con- ditions suitable to its development, which evidently are a calm atmosphere and a tem- perature above fifty-five or sixty degrees. Hence, to avoid this pest, we make every effort by shading, airing, and regulation of fire heat, to keep the atmosphere of the house so that it shall not exceed sixty degrees. This, of course, is not practicable when the outside temperature in the shade is above sixty degrees; but the temperature can be reduced considerably by dashing water on the pathways and other parts of the house. It is rarely, however, that the outside temperature ever exceeds sixty degrees in the shade for any length of time in the district of New York, before the middle of May, and all propa- gating had better be finished previous to that time, unless of tropical plants. In the fall months, about the middle of September, operations in propagating may again begin. The temperature is prevented from rising in the house in various ways, some using canvas, or bast-mats, or painting the glass with lime or whitewash. We find the best and most convenient shading to be that formed by flexible screens made of common lath, planed and attached together like Venetian blinds, the laths being an inch or so apart ; these can be quickly rolled or unrolled, and give an ever-varying modified shade, suffi- ciently cooling to the house, yet not darken- ing the cutting enough to impair its vigor. These are not unrolled in the morning until the temperature inside indicates it to be nec- essary, and are rolled up in the afternoon as soon as the sun ceases to shine on the glass, for it is of the utmost importance that the cuttings receive as much light as they will bear without becoming wilted. The time required by cuttings to root varies from eight to twenty days, according to the variety, con- dition of the cutting, and temperature. Ver- benas, Fuchsias, or Heliotropes, put in proper condition, and kept without ever being allowed to wilt, will root, in an average bottom heat of sixty-five degrees, in eight days, while Roses, Pelargoniums, or Petunias will take at least double that time under the same condi- tions. It is best to pot-off the cuttings at once when rooted, no matter how small the roots may be ; half an inch is a much better length for them to be when potted than two inches, and the operation is much quicker performed when the roots are short than when long. But the main evils of delaying the potting-off of cuttings are, that when left too long the cut- tings grow up weak and spindling, the roots become hard, and do not take as quickly to the pot. The same care is required in shad- ing and watering after potting, nearly, as in the cutting* bench ; for no matter how care- fully taken up, in the operation of potting the delicate roots get less or more injured and until they begin to emit roots are as nearly liable to wilt as the unrooted cuttings. Cuttings should always be placed in small pots, the best size being from two to two and a half inches wide and deep ; if placed in larger pots the soil dries out too slowly, and the tender root, imbedded too long in a mass of wet soil, PRO rots and the plant dies. Though we gener- ally prefer soil to be unsifted in potting large plants, yet for newly potted cuttings it is better to be sifted fine, not only that it is more congenial thus to the young roots, but also that the operation is quicker done with finely-sifted soil. After potting, the cuttings are placed on benches covered with an inch or so of sand, watered freely with a fine rose watering pot, and shaded for four or five days ; by that time they will have begun to root, when no further shading is necessary. These methods of propagating by cuttings are such as are now practiced by commercial florists, but for amateurs in horticulture, or gardeners who have charge of private green- houses, there is usually no necessity for a regular propagating house, unless the require- ments for plants are unusually large, as the "Saucer System" of Propagation will answer evexy purpose, and it is the safest of all methods in inexperienced hands. We were, we believe, the first to introduce this system some twenty years ago, and here repeat the directions first given in one of the horticultural journals at that time. "Com- mon saucers or plates are used to hold the sand in which the cuttings are placed. This sand is put in to the depth of an inch or so, and the cuttings inserted in it close enough to touch each other. The sand is then watered until it becomes in the condition of mud, and placed on the shelf of the green- house, or on the window sill of the sitting- room or parlor, fully exposed to the sun, and never shaded. But one condition is essential to success ; until the cuttings become rooted the sand must be kept continually saturated, and kept in the condition of mud; if once allowed to dry up, exposed to the sun as they are, the cuttings will quickly wilt, and the whole operation will be defeated. The rules previ- ously laid down for the proper condition of the cuttings are the same in this case, and those for the temperature nearly so ; although, by the saucer system, a higher temperature can be maintained without injury, as the cut- tings are in reality placed in water, and will not droop at the same temperature as if the sand was kept in the regular condition of moisture maintained in the propagating bench. Still, the detached slip, until rooted, will not endure a continuation of excessive heat, so that we advise, as we do in the regular method of propagating, that the attempt should not be made to root cuttings in this way, in this latitude, in the months of June, July, or August, unless with plants of a tropical nature. When the cuttings are rooted, they should be potted in small pots, and treated carefully by shading and watering for a few days, as previously directed. Propagation by Water. This is an old way of rooting cuttings and is a very simple and satisfactory way for amateurs to root many plants they may find difficult by any other process. The cuttings should be of well matured growth and about six joints or eyes long, two or three of which should be kept in the water which should be kept fresh and clean. The cuttings should show signs of callusing in from two to three weeks and should be well rooted in two or three weeks more, when they should be removed and pot- ted off as ordinary cuttings, care being taken, 352 HENDEKSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS PRO however, to water and shade them well for a few days. The following plants will produce roots freely by this system : Picus elastica, Neriums,Camellias,Crotons, Dracaenas, Nepen- thes, and many others. Propagation by Layering. Although lay- ering may be done with the ripened wood of vines or shrubs of the growth of the previous season, yet it is preferable to use the shoots of the present year in its half green state ; for example, a Rose or flowering shrub is pruned in the usual way in spring ; by June or July it will have made strong shoots, one, two or three feet in length from or near the base of the plant. Take the shoot then in the left hand (after having stripped it of its leaves for a few inches on each side of where it is to be cut), keep the fingers under the shoot, and make a clean cut on the upper part, an inch or so in length, and to about half the thickness of the shoot, then slightly twist the "tongue " or cut part to one side. Having opened a shallow trench, fasten the branch down with a hook- peg, and cover with earth. It is a good plan to place a flat stone over the layer to prevent the soil from drying out. This plan of cutting the shoot on the upper side we have never seen in illustration showing the manner of layering, it being usually either on the side or under ; but we have found in practice that it is much the safest plan, as the "tongue," when cut on the top part of the shoot, has far less chance to be broken off. Pbopagation by Layering in Pots is the process of layering shoots or runners of plants in pots, so that, when the root forms in the pot, the plant can be detached without injury to it, as the roots are confined exclus- ively to the soil in the pot. Layering plants in pots can be done with Roses, vines or shrubs of any kind, with always more certainty of making a plant quicker than by the ordin- ary way of layering the shoot in the soil. This system of propagating Strawberries has been largely practiced during the past ten years in the United States, and is now a favorite method. For details, see Strawberry. Propagation by Layering in the Air. About twenty years ago we published a method of propagating Geraniums, that we believed originated with us, and which we called, for want of a better term, "Layering in the Air." It consists in tonguing the shoots to be used as a cutting half through with a knife, as in the ordinary layering : the shoots so treated formed granulations, or "callus," on the cut surface, and was in a condition to form roots immediately on being detached and put into the earth. A year or two ago we bethought ourselves of our long forgotten plan of " layering in the air," but this time we im- proved upon the former way of doing it. Instead of tonguing the shoot to be used for a cutting, as before, it was merely snapped short off at a point where the condition of the shoot or slip would make it hang on to the plant by the merest shred or bark. Slight as this strip of bark is, it is sufficient to sustain the cutting, without any material injury from wilting until it forms the " callus," or granulated condition, which precedes the formation of roots. The cutting, or slip may be detached in from ten to twelve days after it had been broken in the manner described, and then potted in two or three PRO inch pots. If watered and shaded rather less than required by ordinary cuttings, it will form roots in ten or twelve days more, and not more than two per cent, will fail. Plants of the Tricolor Geraniums, which all know are difficult to root under the ordinary modes of propagation, particularly in hot weather, do excellently by this plan. The advantage of this method is not only that the slips root with far greater facility, but the injury to the stock or mother plants is far less than if the slips had been cut clean off instead of being only partly detached. Many other plants can be thus propagated with safety, notably Begonias, Petunias, Poinsettias, and such plants, the cuttings of which have a tendency to damp in hot weather. Propagation by Leaves. Many plants are increased rapidly by this system ; young plants appearing on the mid-ribs, and along the edges. The leaves which are intended for this purpose should be fully grown, and what florists term, well hardened ; place the leaf on clean sand and peg it down, placing a little sand on the top of the leaf ; numerous young plants will spring up in the course of three to four weeks, when they can be taken off separately and potted. Another mode of increasing plants by leaves is to cut the leaf in triangular pieces with a rib or two of the leaf included, and place in sand as you would a cutting. The following plants are easily propagated in this manner : Gloxinias, Sedums, Cactus, Hoyas, Begonias, and many others, which have simi- lar leaves to the above. Propagation by Root Cuttings. A num- ber of plants can be more easily and quickly increased in this manner than by cuttings or even seeds. The stronger roots are cut into pieces, from half an inch to an inch long, and are generally sown in boxes or pots and covered slightly with soil. They form young plants in a very short time, and are potted-off in the usual manner. Bouvardias, Phyllanthus, Clerodendrons, Aralias, etc., are often propa- gated in this way. Many hardy shrubs and trees such as Pyrus Japonica, Ailantus. Pau- lownia, as well as a number of hardy herba- ceous plants, as Helianthus multiflorus, Eu- phorbia corollata, etc., are increased in this manner, mention of which is generally made under their respective names. Fropendent. Hanging forward, and downward. Prophet Flower. Arnebia echioides. Frosa'rtes. From prosartao, to hang from ; in allusion to the pendent ovules or flowers. Nat. Ord. LiliacecR. A small genus of hardy native plants, with yellow, drooping flowers, common in moist, rich woods, from New York, west and south. Proserpina'ca. Mermaid Weed. From proserpo, to creep ; alluding to the creeping habit of the species. Nat. Ord. Haloragacem. A genus of two species of hardy aquatic plants, natives of North America, and the West Indies. They are sometimes cultivated in ponds and are useful plants for the aquarium. Proso'pis. From prosopis, a mask ; but why applied is unknown. Nat. Ord. Leguminosaz. A genus of trees or shrubs often armed with hooked prickles, widely dispersed through tropical and sub-tropical regions. P. siliquastrum, introduced from Chili in 1829, is the species most generally found in cultiva- AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 353 PRO tion. It is hardy in the Southern States, and is propagated by cuttings of the half-ripened wood. P. pubescens, the Screw Bean or Tor- nillo, and P. julifiora, the Mesquit, Algaroba, or Honey-pod of the South, are both found in Texas, west through New Mexico, and Arizona, to the western foot-hills of the San Bernar- dino Mountains, California. The wood of the latter is very heavy, hard, and close-grained, and being almost indestructible in contact with the soil, is notwithstanding its crooked timber, much used for railroad ties, and ex- clusively for the beams and under-pinnings of the adobe houses of New Mexico, etc., and for posts, fencing, etc. A gum resembling gum arabic is yielded by this species, the unripe and pulpy pods, rich in grape sugar, are edible, furnishing valuable and important fodder. Prostanthe'ra. Australian Mint-bush, or Mint- tree. From prostheke, appendage, and anthera, anther; connections of the anthers are spurred. Nat. Ord. Labiates. Green-house, evergreen shrubs from New Holland, remarkable for the strong odor they emit. Their flowers are produced in terminal racemes, but are not of very great beauty. P. rotundifolia has long been under culti- vation, quite as much for rarity as for beauty. Propagated by seeds or from cuttings. Pro'tea. From Proteus, the versatile sea-god ; in allusion to the diversity of the species. Nat. Ord. Proteacece. A large genus of shrubs or trees almost all natives of South Africa. They are still met with in large collections, and are valued for the diversity of their foliage, and the peculiarity of their bottle-brush-like flowers. Protea'ceae. A natural order of shrubs or small trees, natives principally of Australia, and the Cape of Good Hope. They present great diversity of appearance, and are culti- vated for their handsome habit and the pecu- liarity of their flowers. The wood of some of the Australian species is valuable for cabinet- making. The order comprises forty-nine genera, and about nine hundred and fifty species; well known examples are Protea, Hakea, Grevillea, and Banksia. Prothallus. A term intended to indicate the first results of the germination of the spores in the higher Cryptogams. Protoplasm. The matter which is deposited over the inside walls of a cell, subsequent to the formation of the cell itself. Prou'stia. Named after Proust, a Spanish chemist. Nat. Ord. Composite. A small genus of erect, or twining, warm- green-house plants, natives of South America and Mexico. P. pyrifolia, a very desirable green-house climber, has white flower-heads with round, cordate or oval leaves, densely tomentose beneath. It was introduced from Chili in 1865, and is increased by cuttings of the half -ripened wood. Pruinose. Covered with glittering particles, as if frosted over. Prune'lla. Self-heal. Altered from Brunella; derived from the German braune, a disease of the throat, for which this plant was a reputed remedy. Nat. Ord. Labiatce. A small genus of low-growing plants, com- mon everywhere. P. vulgaris which has become PRU naturalized from Europe, and is common on roadsides, grows about six inches high, and has pale-purple flowers. P. grandiflora is a handsome and vigorous plant, readily distin- guished by its large flowers. There is a white as well as a purple variety, both handsome plants that thrive in almost any ground, but prefer a shaded position. P. Pyrenaica is a still larger species, with beautiful violet-pur- ple flowers. Prunes. The dried fruit of certain varieties of the Plum. Pruning. In pruning we remove some part of a tree, shrub, or other plant, either stem, branches, or roots, with a view to repress growth in one direction, and direct the course of the sap for the benefit of that which remains. It is often quite as necessary to prune trees and shrubs cultivated for their flowers and foliage as those grown solely for their fruit, and whether it is performed upon a branch six inches through, or upon a shoot so tender as to be cut by the thumb nail, the object is essentially the same. The opera- tion, though very simple, is one which the amateur often fears to undertake ; and having no confidence in his own ability, he often employs some jobbing gardener, who has no fears on this or any other gardening matter. Pruning is done for various ends, and unless one has a definite reason for doing it, he had better leave it undone. Many have an idea that pruning must, for some reason, be done every year, just as it used to be thought necessary for people to be bled every spring, whether well or ill. We prune to control the shape of a tree or shrub, and by directing the growth from one part to another, obtain a symmetrical form, especially in fruit trees, where it is desirable that the weight of fruit be equally distributed. In some trees, where the fruit is borne only on the wood of the previous season, the bearing portions are each year removed further and further from the body of the tree. In such cases a shorten- ing of the growth each year will cause the formation of a compact head instead of the loose straggling limbs that result when this is omitted. We prune to renew the vigor of a plant. The inexperienced cannot under- stand how cutting away a third, a half, or even more of a plant can improve it in vigor and fruitfulness, or abundance and size of flowers. Let us suppose that a stem which grew last year has twenty buds upon it. If this is allowed to take its own course in the spring, a few of the upper buds will push with great vigor, and form strong shoots; while those below will make gradually weaker shoots, and for probably the lower third of the stem the buds will not start at all. In fruit trees, as a rule, the most vigorous growth is at the top. The buds there, were the last formed in the previous summer, are the most excitable, and the soonest to grow the next spring, and getting the start of those below them, they draw the nourishment to them- selves and starve the others. If, instead of allowing this stem to grow at will in this manner, it had been, before any of the buds had started, cut back so as to leave only a few of the lower ones, those having an abundance of nutriment would push forth with great vigor and be nearly equal in size, while the 354 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS PRU flowers or fruit borne upon them would be greatly superior to those upon the unpruned stem. Any one can readily be convinced of the utility of pruning by taking two rose bushes of equal size, leaving one without any pruning to take care of itself, and each spring cutting the other back severely, pruning away one -third or one-half of the wood that was formed the previous season. The result at the end of two years will be very striking. No general rule can be given for pruning. The amateur should use his eyes, and notice the habit of growth of his trees and shrubs. He will find that many, like the Rose, produce their flowers upon the new wood of the pres- ent season, and that such plants are greatly benefited by cutting back more or less each spring. But there are other plants for which this treatment will not answer. If we examine a Horse-chestnut tree, or a Lilac bush, and many other, we shall find that the flowers come from the large buds that are formed on the end of last season's growth, and to cut back such plants would be to remove all the flower buds. With shrubs of this kind, all that need be done is to thin out the branches where they are too crowded. These examples will warn the novice against indiscriminate pruning ; and unless, as he stands before his shrub or tree, knife in hand, he knows why he is to prune, and how, let him put his knife in his pocket, and give the plant the benefit of the doubt. While, under the different fruits, we can give directions for the particular pruning required by each, the proper method of treating a miscellaneous collection of orna- mental shrubs and trees can only be learned by observation. The term pruning is generally applied to the cutting away, in whole or in part, of the ripened wood; but much pruning may be done by the use of the thumb and finger. This is termed pinching, and is practiced upon young shoots at the growing season, while they are yet soft. This most useful form of pruning allows us to control the form of a plant with the greatest ease, and is applied not only to soft-wooded plants, but to trees and shrubs, and may be so performed on these as to render nearly, if not quite, all pruning of ripened wood unnecessary. When soft- wooded plants, such as Chrysanthemums, Geraniums, or Coleus, are planted out or grown in pots, and left to themselves, most kinds will grow tall and straggling; but if judiciously " pinched back," as it is called (that is, the top of the strongest shoots pinched out), the plants can be shaped into a bushy, rounded form at will. If a vigorous shoot has its end or " growing point " pinched out it will cease to elongate, but will throw out branches below, the growth of which may be controlled in the same manner. The Blackberry illustrates the utility of this kind of pruning. The rampant growing shoot which springs up from the root will, if left to itself, make a long cane six or eight feet high, and with a very few branches near the top. If, when this shoot has reached four, or at most five feet, its end be pinched off, it will then throw out numerous branches ; and if the upper branches, when they reach the length of eighteen inches, be "stopped" (as it is called), in a similar manner, by pinching, the growth will be directed to the lower ones, and PRU by the end of the season, instead of a long unmanageable wand, there will be a well- branched bush, which will bear its fruit all within reach. The grower of plants in pots is usually afraid to remove even a single inch of the stem, and the result is usually a lot of "leggy" specimens not worth the care that is otherwise bestowed upon them. Plants may be prevented from ever reaching this condition, if their growth be properly con- trolled by pinching ; but if they have once reached it, they should be cut back severely, and a compact, bushy form obtained from the new shoots which will soon start. I may state here, however, that if it becomes necessary to cut back a plant in full leaf, care must be taken to withhold water until it again throws out shoots below, for the reason that, being robbed of the foliage and shoots that elaborated the top, an excess of moisture given to the roots, which have now nq work to do, will gorge and destroy them. When judiciously pruned, a shrub or tree can be kept at almost any size, or changed to almost any form ; and, besides this, a tree or shrub can be made much more productive of fruit or flowers. On the other hand, improper pruning will not only weaken the vigor of a plant, but may destroy all its beauty of out- line, and at the same time hinder the produc- tion of flowers and fruit. If we prune for the purpose of increasing the flowers of a shrub or tree, we must prune different species and varieties at different seasons of the year; but surplus wood and suckers can always be thinned out during the summer season, and wounds which are cut clean in midsummer will heal more quickly than those made in frosty weather. Maples, Birches, Yellow -woods, and many other trees bleed copiously when their branches are cut in the spring, but they heal over more quickly if pruned while in full leaf. Again, shrubs which bloom on wood made the previous year, of which the early Spirceas, Forsythias, Honey- suckles, Viburnums, Syringas, Philadelphus, and Deutzias, are examples, should receive their chief pruning soon after the flowers have fallen. This will encourage a growth of young wood with flower-buds for the following year. Of course, when these shrubs are cut back in early spring before flowering, the flower-buds are sacrificed. On the other hand, shrubs like Hydrangea paniculata, Des- Imodium, penduliflorum, Hibiscus Syriacus, and others, which flower on the new growth, bloom more abundantly when cut back severely in early spring. But even in this case the surplus wood should be thinned out during the summer. With anything like an extensive collection of shrubs constant attention must be given to pruning during the whole growing season, and this is especially true where coarse-grow- ing shrubs and those of delicate habit are planted together. If this is neglected the less robust plants will soon be smothered out by their vigorous neighbors. Many shrubs are pruned too much. If a healthy young plant is carefully pruned at the outset, allowed plenty of room, with all the cross branches cutaway to admit light and air, and all the old flowering wood shortened in after bloom and the over-strong shoots stopped, at midsum- mer, it will not only retain all its natural AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 355 PRU beauty, but this beauty will be increased, and it will be full of flowers the next year. After the branches of large shrubs have been thinned out, stronger shoots should be pinched back with the thumb and finger, for this will hasten the growth of flowering-buds. Many trees and shrubs can be made to pro- duce flowers and fruit at a smaller size than if they were left to themselves or pruned only in the winter or spring. This summer pinch- ing also helps to ripen up the wood, and leaves it in good condition to withstand the cold. Apples, Peaches, Plums, Filberts, and many other trees can be made to bear when quite small if the new growth is stopped once or twice in the summer. While trees are grow- ing vigorously the flower-buds do not form well, but by this summer pinching the flow of the sap is checked and the buds are developed. As to the time of pruning, about which there has been much discussion, it may be done on small stems at any time after the fall of the leaf, before the growth starts in the spring ; but for the removal of large branches, late in winter is regarded as the best time. It is a popular idea that trees should not be pruned in excessively cold weather, a very sensible belief, as affecting the comfort of the pruner ; but rest assured, it in no way adds to the discomfort of the tree, either present or pro- spective. Another popular fallacy is that Grape Vines and similar vigorous plants are injured by loss of sap by being pruned late in spring. We have repeatedly pruned vines when the sap run from them in streams, with- out any apparent injury, though of course it might be better to prune before the sap begins to run. Pruno'psia Lindleyi. A synonym of Prunus trilobata. Prunus. The ancient Latin name of the Plum. Nat. Ord. Rosacea. This genus, as arranged by Bentham and Hooker, includes the Plum, Cherry, Almond, etc., but which, for easy reference, we have described separately. The species are ever- green or deciduous, hardy trees, or shrubs, mostly natives of the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, a few being found in tropical America and Asia. They may be increased readily by seeds, and the many va- rieties now in cultivation, by budding or graft- ing. P. cerasifera is well adapted for hedges, as is also the Black-thorn or Sloe. The Myrobalan Plum is one of the plants which has most puzzled botanists, as, al- though it has been in cultivation for cen- turies, it is nowhere known in a wild state. It is probably a variety or form of the com- mon Plum (P. domestica). It is rarely seen in our gardens, although now that the purple- leaved Persian variety, P. Pissardi, is so generally grown, one form of it at least will be in cultivation. The latter variety is a most ornamental sort, and is exceedingly effective when planted with light-colored, or yellow - leaved shrubs. The green -leaved plant is far the handsomer of the two, how- ever, when the trees are in bloom, as the leaves, which are about half-grown when the flowers are fully expanded, make a charming and effective setting for them, and afford what most fruit-trees lack when in flower —a contrast of colors. The fruit is small, PSE depressed-globular, scarlet or yellow, and of little value except for the handsome appear- ance which it presents as it hangs upon the branches. The Myrobalan is one of the best early flowering trees to plant in a small gar- den or on a lawn ; it is, moreover, less liable to be injured by borers than the purple- leaved Prunus Pissardi. The double-flowered variety of P. sinensis, is a very desirable and early-flowering shrub, as is also its congener, P. trilobata. Prurient. Stinging ; causing an itching sensa- tion. Psa'mma. From psammos, sand; alluding to the use to which the species are put. Nat. Ord. Graminacece. A small genus of hardy grasses. P. armaria has strong perennial creeping root-stocks, and is often planted on the sea-coast to pre- vent the sand being removed by wind or tides. Fsammi'sia. Named after Psammis, a king of Egypt, B. C. 376. Nat. Ord. Vacciniacece. A genus of shrubs, sometimes epiphytal, natives of South America. The flowers are large, frequently scarlet, and disposed in axillary racemes or corymbs. Most authors consider the species of this genus to form part of the genus Thibaudia. Pseudo-bulb. A stem having the appearance of a bulb, but not its structure ; seen in the thickened, above-ground stem of many Or- chids. Pseu'dodraco'ntium. From pseudo, false, and Dracontium ; in allusion to its resemblance to that plant. Nat. Ord. Aroidem. A small genus of tropical tuberous herbs, natives of Cochin China. P. Lacourii, intro- duced in 1879, has trisected leaves, the seg- ments being cut or pinnate, spotted and mottled with yellow. Syn. Amorphophallus Lacourii. Pseu'dola'rix. False or Chinese Larch ; Golden Larch. From pseudo, false, and Larix, the Larch, which it resembles. Nat. Ord. Conir fero3. P. Kampferi, the only species, is a noble, hardy tree, introduced from China in 1777. It forms a beautiful ornamental tree, the leaves being light-green when young, but becoming golden-yellow in autumn. It is distinguished from the Larch by the cones having deciduous scales with divergent points. Syn. Larix Kaimpferi. Pseu'dopa'nax. A small genus of AraliaceaR, represented by a few New Zealand and Chilian species of shrubby habit, with digitate or sim- ple leaves, grown for their ornamental char- acter. P. crassifolium, is known in cultivation as Aralia crassifolium, and the well-known Aralia trifoliata, is now called P. Lessonii. Pseu'dotsu'ga. From pseudo, false, and Tsuga, the Japanese name. Nat. Ord. Coniferw. P. Douglasii, the Red Fir, Yellow Fir; Ore- gon Pine, and Douglas Fir, is the most gener- ally distributed and valuable timber tree of the Pacific region, growing from the sea-level to an elevation in Colorado of nearly 10,000 feet, often forming extensive forests, almost to the exclusion of other species, and reaching in western Oregon and Washington Territory its greatest development and value. The wood is hard, strong, durable, and hard to 356 HENDEBSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS PSI work, varying greatly with age and conditions of growth in density and quality. The bark is valuable in tanning leather. A large num- ber of sports, forms, or seedling variations are grown under distinctive names. Psi'dium. Guava. Derived from psidion, the Greek name of Pomegranate. Nat. Ord. Myr- tacece. An extensive genus of low-growing ever- green trees, confined chiefly to the West In- dies and South America. They are much es- teemed for their fruit. P. Guaiava, produces the well-known Guava fruits, so largely em- ployed in the preparation of jellies, a staple article of West Indian commerce. The fruit is small, yellow, not unlike an Orleans Plum. It is juicy, and in flavor somewhat resembles a Strawberry. P. Cattleyanum, the Purple Guava, though originally brought to Europe from China, is most probably a native of Bra- zil. The fruits, which are produced in great abundance, and are readily distinguished from the common Guavas by their deep, claret-colored, pitted rind, are filled with a juicy, pale flesh of a very agreeable acid- sweet flavor. Psilosa'nthus. A synonym of Liatris. Psilo'tum. From psilos, naked ; the plants are almost destitute of leaves. Nat. Ord. Lyco- podiacece. A genus of Club-mosses, containing numer- ous forms, reducible, however, to two species. P. triquetrum grows on the trunks of trees in tropical or equable climates, and extends through Brazil and Central America to the southern United States. It bears cultivation well, and is not uncommon in green-houses. The spores burst when placed in water, and emit a cloud of microscopic particles. Psora'lea. From psoraleos, warted or scurfy ; in reference to the plants being for the most part sprinkled all over, or roughened with glandular dots or wart-like points. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A large genus consisting of nearly one hundred species of annual and perennial herbs, and shrubs, found in great abundance at the Cape of Good Hope and America, more sparingly in Asia, northern Africa and Aus- tralia. The leaves of P. glandulosa, are used in Chili as a substitute for tea, under the name of "Jesuits' Tea." P. esculenta, is a native of Wisconsin, Missouri, and other parts of the Northwest, where its tuberous roots, known as Indian or Prairie Turnips (Pomme Blanche, and Pomme de Prairie, of the Voyageurs), form part of the food of the indigenous population. It is a roughish, hairy plant, with roundish heads of blue flowers. Some of the Cape species are shrubs, and are in cultivation in green-houses. Psycho'tria. From psyche, life; referring to the powerful medicinal qualities possessed by several of the species. Nat. Ord. Rubiacece. A large genus comprising about five hun- red species of shrubs or small trees, erect, climbing, or twining, found in tropical coun- tries, especially in America. The flowers are generally unattractive, but P. Jasminoides, known better as Gloneria, forms a beautiful green-house plant, covered, when in bloom, with terminal, corymbose panicles of snowy- white tubular flowers. P. Chontalensis, and P. PTE cyanococea, are both very ornamental green- house plants, bearing clusters of deep blue berries (often thirty to sixty on a bunch), very useful as decorative plants in winter. They are both natives of Nicaragua, introduced in 1870, and are propagated by cuttings or seeds. Pta'rmica. A genus now included under Achillea. Pte'lea. Shrubby Trefoil. Hop-tree. The Greek name of the Elm, here applied to a genus with similar fruit. Nat. Ord. Rutaceoe. P. trifoliata, our native species, is a small tree, ten to fifteen feet high, with trifoliate leaves, and clustered greenish flowers, fol- lowed by curious winged seed-vessels. The leaves and fruit, when bruised, emit a strong odor of hops, whence the popular name. When properly trained, this species makes a very interesting lawn-tree. Pteli'dium. So named by Thomas from its similarity to Ptelea. Nat. Ord. Celastracece. P. ovatum, the only described species, is an ornamental green-house shrub, with opposite, coriaceous, ovate leaves and terminal cymes of light-green flowers. It was introduced from Madagascar in 1818, and is propagated by cuttings of the ripened wood. Pteridology. That branch of botany which relates to the study of Ferns. Pte'ris. Brake. From pteron, a wing; the shape of the fronds or leaves. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. A very extensive genus of Ferns, widely distributed over the temperate and tropical regions, and differing as widely in character. Many of the species are highly valued for green-house and house decoration, as well as for cutting to use with cut flowers. P. serrw- lata and its crested varieties ; P. cretica, and especially its variegated f orm,P. c. albo-lineata, P. tremula, P. scaberula, P. argiUa, and many others, are all invaluable to the florist, and are grown in immense numbers near all our large cities. P. quadriaurita, var. argyraa, forms a noble specimen and is one of the most valued Ferns for green-house decoration. P. aspericaulis, var. tricolor, is a very attractive sort, but requiring more heat and moisture than many other kinds, is seldom seen in good form. P. aquilina, is the common Brake or Bracken. Pteroca'rpus. From pteron, a wing and karpos, a fruit ; the pods are girded by a broad wing. Nat. Ord. Leguminosa. A genus of trees inhabiting the tropical parts of Asia, Africa, and America. They bear generally loose panicles of yellow flowers, rarely violet or white, and are often very showy. The genus comprises about fifteen species, of which a few are in cultivation. Gum Kino is obtained from various trees of this genus. P. Indicus, furnishes the Burmese Kosewood, and P. santalirvus, yields the deep red dye-wood known as Bed Saunders, large quantities of which are annually exported from India. Fteroca'rya. From pteron, a wing, and caryon, a nut ; winged fruit. Nat. Ord. Juglandacea. A small genus of very ornamental, low- growing trees, inhabiting China, Japan and the Caucasus. P.Caucasica, has pinnate leaves, and small flowers, which are borne in catkins, and are succeeded by winged seed-vessels. In PHLOXES (GROUP OP HARDTf PERENNIAL). 356 PRUNUS TRILOBA. POLEMONIUM CCERULETTM. PSIDIUM (GUAVA). PYRETHBT7M SELAGINOIDE8. -,---._^^ *~gg5stgs^£t!&&$l 'L-tPC- -^K. w -^r- QUAMOCLIT (CYPHESS VINE). PYRETHRUM PARTHENIFOLIUM 4IIEKUM. PRUNELLA GRANDIFLORA. PUNICA GBANATUM (POMEGRANATE). PYRETHRUM CINERARI-EFOLICM. 357 AND GENEKAL HORTICULTURE. 357 PTE this climate, in low situations and in rich soil, it does not sufficiently ripen its wood to with- stand the frosts, and the tips of the branches are often injured in winter. Fteroce'phalus. From pteron, a wing, and kephale, a head ; in allusion to the receptacle of the flowers being villous. Nat Ord. Dip- sacacecB. A genus of desirable hardy annual and per- ennial plants, founded on Scabiosa plumosa, and some others from the Mediterranean region. P. Parnassi, a native of Greece, is a Scabious-like plant of dwarf, compact growth, forming a dense rounded mass of heavy foliage in summer, with mauve-colored flower-heads. It is a most desirable plant for the ordinary border or for the rock-garden. The annual species merely require sowing in the open border. Syns. Scabiosa and Cepha- laria. Fterodi'scus. From pteron, a wing, and discus, a disk ; referring to the broad wings of the disk of the fruit. Nat. Ord. Pedaliacem. P. speciosus, the only cultivated species, is a very handsome herbaceous, green-house plant, with tuberous roots and a thick succu- lent stem ; a native of South Africa. Its flow- ers, which are of a beautiful lilac or reddish color, are large, with a funnel-shaped tube and a spreading five-lobed limb. Introduced in 1848 ; propagated by seeds or by dividing the plant in spring. Pterolo'bium. From pteron, a wing, and lobos, a pod. The pods are winged at the extrem- ity. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A genus of tall, climbing shrubs, armed with recurved prickles, natives of tropical Asia, Africa, and America. P. Indicum, the only species yet introduced, requires culture similar to a Ccesalpinia, but is not often found in cultivation. Pterolo'ma. modium. A genus now included under Des- Pteroneu'ron. From pteron, a wing, and neuron, a nerve ; referring to the winged placentas. Nat. Ord. Crucifera. A small genus of rock-plants now included by many, under Cardamine. Fterophy'llus. A synonym of Ginkgo, the Maiden-hair Tree. Ptero'stylis. From pteron, a wing, and stylis, a column ; alluding to the broadly winged col- umn. Nat. Ord. Orchidacem. A genus of terrestrial Orchids with small underground tubers, natives of New Zealand and Australia. A few species are in cultiva- tion, but they are grown more for curiosity than for their beauty. Fterosty'rax. The name applied to a Japanese shrub constituting a genus of Styracacece. It forms a medium-sized shrub or low tree, cov- ered with stellate hairs ; the leaves are ovate, large and sharply serrated, and the creamy- white fragrant flowers are borne in axillary or terminal pendent clusters or panicles. It is a late introduction from Japan (1875), and is a valuable acquisition to our hardy shrubs. Ptilo'meris. From ptilon, a feather, and meris, a part ; alluding to the fringed, chaffy scales of some of the species. Nat. Ord. Composite. A small genus of hardy plants, natives of California. P. coronaria, the only species of PUL interest, has yellow flower heads, pedunculate at the ends of the branches, and grows well treated as other hardy annuals. Ftychospe'rma. Derivation of name not given. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. A genus of elegant Palms with pinnate leaves, natives of the eastern Archipelago. P. Seemani is a very beautiful dwarf Palm, well adapted for table and general decorative purposes. The leaves somewhat resemble those of the Caryota in appearance, and are of a bright green color. This Palm never attains large dimensions; the stem, when fully de- veloped, is about an inch in diameter, and is used, on account of its strength and straight- ness, for spears by the natives of New Guinea, from whence it was received. Propagated by seed. Seaforthia elegans, is by some included in this genus under the name of P. Cunning- hamiana. Pube'rulous. Minutely pubescent. Pubescent. Softly downy, or hairy. Pucci'nia. Named after an Italian botanist, Puccini. A large genus of parasitic Fungi, the species of which are more or less destructive to the mother-plant, unless where they tend to re- press over-luxuriance. P. graminis, which occurs in almost every part of the world on grasses, and especially on cereals, is the com- mon wheat mildew, one of the most formida- ble diseases of wheat, and one for which no remedy has yet been found. Were it even possible to devise any plan which might de- stroy every particle of wheat mildew, there would still be a supply in the fields from the wild grasses. There are many other species which are very destructive when they get a foothold, as those that attack the Barberry, Gooseberry, Strawberry, Mint, etc. P. Mal- vaceum nearly extirpated the Hollyhock in many districts not many years ago, and it is still a pest in many sections. Other species attack the Onion, Carnation, Currant, Gentian, and many other plants for which there ap- pears to be no remedy but the destruction of the diseased plants. Puccoon, Hairy. Lithospermum hirtum. Pucra'ria. Named in honor of M. M. N. Pucrari, a professor of botany at Copenhagen. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. A genus of climbing herbs or sub-shrubs, natives of tropical Asia and Japan. Only three species have been introduced, of which P. Thunbergiana,is the most interesting. A starch, largely used by the Chinese and Japanese, is obtained from the roots ; and a fibre, used for textile purposes, from the stems. Pudding Berries. The edible fruits of Cornus Canadensis. Pullus. Dusky-brown, or blackish colored. Pulmona'ria. Lungwort. So named from the supposed medicinal properties in diseases of the lungs. Nat. Ord. Boraginacea. An extensive genus of hardy herbaceous per- ennials, common in the temperate regions of both hemispheres. They are showy border plants, with flowers of various shades of blue. They grow freely in any good rich soil, and are increased by seeds or root division. P. Virginica is now placed under Mertensia, which see. 358 HENDEESON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS PUL Pulsatilla. See Anemone Pulsatilla. Pulse. A common name for the seeds of many cultivated Leguminosw, such as Peas, Beans, etc. Pultenae'a. Named after W. Pulteney, M.D., a botanical author. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. A genus of green-house, yellow-flowered, evergreen shrubs from New Holland. Of the fifty or sixty species that make up this genus, but two or three have been introduced into the green-house, and these are only to be found in the more extensive collections. Pulverulent, Pulverulentus. Appearing as cov- ered with a powdery substance. Pulvinate. Cushion-shaped. Pulvinus. A cushion. The term is applied to an enlargement or swelling at the base of a leaf, or at the apex of a petiole. Pumilus. Short, dense, or close-growing, as compared with other species of the same genus or family. Pumpkin. Cucurbita Pepo. A species of gourd, but when, where, or how, our present varieties originated is past finding out. Three hun- dred years ago they were made into pies by cutting a hole in the side, extracting the seeds and filaments, stuffing the cavity with apples and spices, and baking the whole. See Squash. Punctate. Dotted. Pungent. Terminating gradually in a sharp, rigid point, as in the lobes of a Holly leaf. Pungent. Very hard and sharp pointed ; prickly pointed. Pu'nica. Pomegranate. From punicus, of " Carthage," near which city it is said to have been first found ; or from puniceus, scarlet ; referring to the color of the flowers. Owing to the singular structure of its fruit this genus, which contains only one species, P. Granatum, was by some botanists formed into a separate order, Granatece. It was after- wards placed in Myrtaceaz, but Bentham and Hooker consider it allied to Lythracem. P. granatum, the Pomegranate, is a very hand- some deciduous shrub or low-growing tree, a native of northern Africa and Western Asia. It thrives remarkably well in the Southern States, where it is extensively grown for ornamental purposes. In the Middle and Northern States it is grown in pots and tubs, and used in summer for ornamenting the border or lawn. There are several varieties, the double-flowered scarlet being the most desirable. P. nana, a dwarf double-flowered variety, is a favorite green-house plant, suit- able for lawn decoration during summer, requiring the protection of a cool house or cellar during the winter. This species is a native of the East Indies, from whence it was introduced into England in 1723. It has since become naturalized in the West Indies and the Southern States. The fruit of the Pome- granate has been highly esteemed for its quality and form from the earliest ages. It was one of the most conspicuous ornaments directed to be used in the construction of Solomon's Temple, and is frequently men- tioned in the Bible. All the varieties are of easy culture, and are readily propagated from cuttings of the young wood. Puniceus. Pure red. PUY Purification Flower. A common name for Ga- lanthus nivalis. Purple Cone Flower. See Echinacea. Purple Fringe. A common name for Rhus Cotinus. Purple "Wreath. Petraa volubilis. Purpurascens. Having a purplish color. Pu'rshia. Named after Frederick Pursh, author of "Flora Americee Septentrionalis " (1817). Nat. Ord. Rosacem. P. tridentata, the only species is a much- branched, hardy, evergreen shrub with scaly buds, and nearly sessile yellow flowers. It is a native of Oregon, and is increased by cut- tings of the young shoots. Syns. Kunzia, and Tigarea. Purslane. The popular name of the genus Portulaca. Common Garden. Portulaca oleracea. Milk. Euphorbia maculata. Rock. Calandrina umbellata. Sea. Arenaria peploides, and Atriplex portula- coides. Sea, American. Sesuvium Portulacastrum. Siberian. Claytonia Sibirica. Water. Peplis portula, Isnardia palustris, and Ludwigia palustris. Winter. Claytonia perfoliata. Purslane Tree. Portulacaria afra. Puschki'nia. Named after Count M. Puschkin, a Russian botanist. Nat. Ord. Liliacea. P. scilloides, the best known species, is a beautiful little bulbous plant, with light purple flowers, like a small-flowered Scilla, as its specific name indicates. The leaves grow from the bulb, and stand erect round the stem, as though protecting the flower. It is a native of Russia, and perfectly hardy, and is propagated by offsets. Introduced in 1819. Pusillus. Very small ; weak and slender. Pustular, Pustulate. Covered with glandular excrescences, like blisters. Puto'ria. From putor, a strong smell ; in allu- sion to the smell of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Rubiacew. A small genus of dwarf branching shrubs, natives of the Mediterranean region. P. Cala- brica, the only species in cultivation, is a very pretty plant with red flowers in terminal clusters. It thrives best in a gravelly or sandy soil, and is propagated by division. Putty-root. See Aplectrum. Pu'ya. Native name. This genus is the same as Pourretia. Puya has been substituted for Pourretia, as being the older name. Nat. Ord. Bromeliaceai. A genus of green-house herbaceous peren- nials and epiphytes, with spikes of white and yellow flowers, like the Pitcairnia, which they resemble. They are natives of Mexico and South America. P. heterophylla, is a very pretty and curious plant, bearing two distinct kinds of leaves : one with tough, broad, horny kinds of leaves, which overlie each other, forming a kind of bulb, extended into narrow, serrated processes about two inches long ; the others, which are last formed, are thin, bright green, and lanceolate, more than eighteen inches long. A more recent introduction, P. grandi- flora, is also a fine plant, and all are interesting. P. Whytei, has flowers of a peculiar metallic AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 359 PYC greenish-blue color, with bright orange an- thers disposed in a large pyramidal panicle on a tall scape. P. Altensteinii is a favorite green- house species, its pure white flowers, contrast- ing well with the bright scarlet scape and bracts. Many species of this genus are now , placed under Pitcairnia. They thrive in a compost of peat and loam, and are easily pro- pagated by suckers, which are generally freely produced. Pycna'nthemum. The generic name for the native Mountain Mint, or Basil, of which there are ten species, found from Virginia and New York to Illinois, and westward. Pycno'stachys. From pyknos, dense, and stachys, a spike ; referring to the dense flower spikes. A genus of Labiates, peculiar to tropical and sub-tropical Africa, and consisting of erect growing annual or perennial herbs. Several of the species have been introduced to culti- vation, the most showy and desirable of which is P. Urticifolia. It was introduced from the Shire valley in 1862, and has large dense spikes of rich mazarine blue flowers. Py'knos. This term, used in Greek com- pounds, signifies thick, close, dense, compact, hence Pycnocephalus, thick-headed, or close- headed; applied to very compact kinds of inflorescence. Pyraca'ntha. See Crataegus Pyracantha. Pyramidal. Pyramid-shaped, more frequently used, however, to denote conical, as the prickles of some roses, the root of the carrot, and the heads of many trees. Pyre'thrum. Feverfew. From pyr, Are ; the roots are hot to the taste. Nat. Ord. Com- posite. A genus of very interesting plants, mostly hardy herbaceous perennials, which only require planting in the open border and the usual treatment of perennial plants. P. Parthenium, is the well-known Feverfew, and is common throughout Europe and the Caucasus. The double-flowered form is a very showy and useful plant, flowering all the season and is a general favorite. P. Partheni- folium aureum, called Golden Feather, is now also common in every garden, and is largely used for edgings, ribbon borders, carpet bed- ding, etc., a variety called laciniatum, being very distinct from the older kind. The most im- portant, however, of the numerous genera is the Caucasian, P. roseum, which has yielded the innumerable varieties, both single and double, that have now become such popular border flowers. They are extremely showy, easy to grow, hardy, and invaluable as cut flowers during several months in summer and autumn. If cut down after flower- ing in June they flower again freely in Sep- tember. By judicious crossing, the color of the blossoms is continually becoming more varied, ranging from white, white with yellow centre, yellow, and lilac, to rose, carmine, and crimson. This species is also important as being the basis of the Persian Insect Powder, the best grade of which is imported from the Caucasus, and is manufactured from the dried flowers only. It is also cultivated in Cali- fornia and when dried and ground, is known in commerce as "Buhack." P. Tchichatchewi, called the Turfing Daisy, is chiefly remarkable for its nnwfir of sustaininc drrmcrht-. i+a fnHauo PYR retaining its verdure even in dry weather, and when planted on dry banks or slopes. Being of dwarf, creeping habit of growth, it quickly forms a carpet of green which needs no attention beyond that of removing the flower stems, which, though not devoid of interest may yet in some situations interfere with the utility of the plant. This species has been recommended as a substitute for lawns in hot, dry situations where grass will not survive. P. uliginosum, is one of the noblest of all tall growing herbaceous plants, forming dense tufts, five to seven feet in height, ter- minated by lax clusters of pure white flowers, each about twice the size of those of the Ox-eye Daisy. They are all easily propa- gated by division or by seed, which should be sown in May or June to flower the following season. Pyriform. Pear-shaped. Pyro'la. Wintergreen. Shin-leaf. Name a diminutive of Pyrus, the Pear-tree, from the resemblance of the leaves to those of the Pear. Nat. Ord. Ericaceae. A genus of low, smooth, perennial, her- baceous herbs, with running subterranean shoots, bearing a cluster of rounded and petioled root-leaves, and a simple raceme of nodding flowers, on an upright more or less scaly bracted scape ; natives of Britain, north and central Asia, and North America. Several of our native varieties are very pretty and sweet scented, and well worth cultivating. Pyrola'ceae. A natural order now included under Ericaceae. Pyroli'rion. Flame Lily. From pyr, fire, and lirion, a lily ; alluding to the color and form of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacem. A small genus of rare and beautiful Peruvian bulbs allied to Zephyranthes. The flowers are orange and yellow, produced in July and August, before the leaves appear. They can be grown in the open border. The bulbs require to be kept dry and warm during the winter, and are increased by offsets. If grown in pots in the green-house, they must have rest from December until April. Introduced into England in 1833. Pyrula'ria. A diminutive from Pyrus, the Pear; in allusion to the form of the fruit, which, in the original species, is like a small Pear. Nat. Ord. Santolacece. A genus of two species of deciduous trees or shrubs, one North American, the other Himalayan. P. oleifera, the Buffalo, Elk, or Oil-nut, is found in rich woods in the moun- tains of Pennsylvania and southward through the Alleghanies. The whole plant, and especially the fruit is imbued with an acrid oil. Py'rus. Pear. Also Apple, which see. From peren, the Celtic word for Pear. Nat. Ord. Rosacea. The different kinds of Crabs and Pears are very ornamental flowering plants, indepen- dent of the value of the fruit of some of the species. The ornamental kinds are all low trees, admirably adapted for the lawn or the shrubbery, and are all of easy culture. They are propagated by grafting the finer on the more common kinds. To thrive and look well, however, they require an airy situation, and not to be crowded among other trees. 360 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS PYR the following : Pyrus spectabilis, the Chinese Crab or Garland-flowering Wild Apple, pro- ducing the most showy flowers of the whole genus in May, and as hardy as the common Crab or Wild Pear. P. coronaria, the Sweet- scented Crab, with large and beautiful pink blossoms is highly fragrant, as is the first. P. coronaria angustifolia, the narrow-leaved Sweet-scented Crab, has flowers as beautiful as the former, and its leaves are sub-ever- green. This and the two preceding kinds have the fruit green when ripe, and fragrant, but it is hardly edible. Pyrus baccata, and P. prunifolia, two kinds of Siberian Crab, have very showy flowers, and small red or yellow fruit. These are the principal orna- mental species of the Crab or Apple kind, unless we except one, the Moscow or Trans- parent Crab, Pyrus Astracanica, which has fruit almost as large as a Golden Pippin, and wax-like when ripe. The Crab, though com- monly cultivated for its fruit, as useful for the table, well deserves a place on the lawn as an ornamental plant, from the extraordinary beauty of the fruit, and it is sometimes used for that purpose. The ornamental Pears are the following : P. salvifolia, which has woolly leaves like those of the Sage, and like all the Pears, white flowers ; this peculiarity, inde- pendently of other marks, distinguishing them from the Apples, which have reddish flowers. P. amygdalaformis, is another orna- mental species, which has silvery- white leaves, and fruit shaped like that of the Almond ; and to these may be added P. elmagnifolia, which has long, narrow, white leaves like those of the Eleeagnus ; P. salicifolia,Y?iih long, narrow, silky leaves, like those of the Willow ; and P. nivalin, which has round leaves of a snowy whiteness. All these species have small green fruit not good to eat, but the trees are very ornamental from their shape and the singular color of their foliage. The following kinds of Pyrus belong to the section Aria : P. Aria, and its varieties, P. a. angustifolia, and P. a. cretica, the White Beam Tree, are valued for the beauty of their leaves, which are green above and white beneath, and for the bright scarlet fruit which they produce in great abundance. P. vestita, the Nepal White Beam Tree, is a rare and beautiful object, as its leaves, which are clothed with a thick white wool beneath, are of a large size, and change in autumn to a most beautiful pale yellow. Other ornamental species of Pyrus are as follows : P. variolosa, remarkable for the varying forms of its foliage, which is sometimes pinnate, like that of the Mountain Ash, and sometimes deeply lobed and cut, like that of the Hawthorn, or entire and cordate and pointed like that of the Pear. It is some- what tender, and thrives best in a sheltered situation, or against a wall. P. torminalis, the Griping Wild Service Tree, is remarkable for the beautiful form of its leaves, which, however, are unfortunately very apt to be eaten by insects. The buds are large, of a beautiful green, and very ornamental in the winter season. Pyrus aucuparia, the Moun- tain Ash, is a well-known small tree, beautiful both when in flower and in fruit, and worth cultivating for its foliage alone. Pyrus Ameri- cana, the American Mountain Ash resembles the common kind, but has larger leaves and smaller fruit, although it is of a much deeper PYX red. Pyrus sorbus, the common Service Tree, has foliage like that of the Mountain Ash, but larger; and the fruit resembles that of the common Pear but much smaller, and not ornamental, though it is eatable. Pyrus spuria, a native of Kamschatka, has leaves like the Elder, and small black fruit; the leaves of this species change in autumn to an intensely deep purple, almost black. There is a pendulous variety, P. s. pendula, which is one of the most ornamental of drooping-bran- ched small trees ; and as neither the variety nor the species exceeds twelve or fifteen feet in height, they are admirably adapted for small gardens. The following kinds of Pyrus are shrubs, and very ornamental, both for their fruit and flowers : P. Maulei, introduced from Japan 1874, is one of the most beautiful of recently introduced shrubs. English papers compare it with Cydonia (Pyrus) Jap- onica, which the flower does to some extent resemble in form, though not quite so bright a red as in the type of that species. In foliage and habit it is more like the Crataegus Pyra- cantha, and like it, has a disposition to be evergreen. Its golden-yellow fruit, which are produced in great abundance, are agree- ably perfumed and make an excellent conserve. P. Arbutifolia,hsLS white flowers and black fruit, and the leaves of this become of a beautiful red in autumn ; there are six or eight varieties commonly treated as species. All the plants belonging to the genus Pyrus are quite hardy, and may all be raised from seeds, or grafted on the Wild Crab, or Wild Pear, or on the Hawthorn, which, though belonging to the genus Crataegus, is very nearly allied to Pyrus. The most beautiful of all our scarlet-flowering shrubs, now known as Cydonia Japonica, was formerly classed in the genus Pyrus. Of this species there is also a white variety. The scarlet variety of Cydonia Japonica, makes a most beautiful hedge plant, looking at a dis- tance like a line of fire. Pythonium. From python, a serpent, on account of the form of the spadix. Nat. Ord. AroideoB. A genus of plant-stove, herbaceous plants, with globular, fleshy root stocks ; closely allied to Caladium. One species, C Wallichia- num, best known under the name of Arum bulbiferum, is remarkable for the presence of little bulb-like buds on the leaves, just at the junction of the stalk with the blade of the leaf. These bulbs become detached and thus serve to perpetuate the species. This plant has been described under the name of Thorn- sonia. Pyxidanthe'ra. From pyxis, pyxidos, a box, and anthera, an anther ; the anther opening as if by a lid. Nat. Ord. Diapensiacece. P. barbulata, Pine-barren Beauty, or Little Pixie, is a small, prostrate, creeping evergreen, not over two inches in height. It is fairly covered in early spring with its beautiful white or pinkish flowers, forming a remark- ably pretty little plant for the rock garden, or any similar situation. It is very common in the Sandy Pine barrens of New Jersey and southward. Pyxis, Pyxidium. A pod opening round hori- zontally by a lid, as in Hyoscyamus, or Anir gallis. AND GENEKAL HORTICULTUBE. 361 Q. QUA Quadri. A term of Latin origin, signifying four times, as Quadrangular, four-angled ; Quadrifoliate, four-leaved; Quadrifid, four- cleft. Quakers and Shakers. A common name for Briza media. Quaking Grass. The common name of Briza maxima, etc., which see. Quamash. See Camassia esculenta. Qua'moclit. Cypress Vine. From kyamos, a Kidney Bean, and klitos, dwarf ; the species of this genus resembles the Kidney Bean in their climbing stems, but are less tall. Nat. Ord. ConvolvulacecB. A somewhat extensive genus of half-hardy climbing annuals and green-house perennials. Q. vulgaris, perhaps better known as Ipomcea Quamoclit, is the beautiful Cypress Vine of our gardens. Of this species there are three varieties, with scarlet, white, and rose-colored flowers, all natives of the East Indies. The spe- cies are quite common in the Southern States, having escaped from the gardens into the fields and hedgerows. These beautiful annu- als are not as much grown north of New York as they should be, the difficulty having been to get them started sufficiently early for a sat- isfactory season of flowering. By sowing the seeds in pots, in the house or in a hot-bed, early in April, they will come forward early, and may be turned out into the open border, when all danger from frost is past. The plants thus started will grow twenty feet high in a season, and be completely covered with flowers for at least three months. The seed may be sown where wanted to grow. If the ground is made fine and rich, and the seeds soaked in hot water before being sown, there will be no difficulty in getting a very fine display, though not of as long duration as if started in pots. Q. coccinea, is the small- flowered, heart-shaped-leaved Ipomoea, or Star Ipomoea (see Ipomcea), a very free-flower- ing species from the East Indies. It is per- fectly hardy, and difficult to exterminate when once planted. This genus is included under Ipomoea, by some botanists. Qua'ssia. Linnaeus applied this name to a tree of Surinam in honor of a negro slave Quassi, who used its bark as a remedy for fever, and enjoyed such a reputation among the natives as to be almost worshiped by some, and sus- pected of magic by others. Nat. Ord. Sima- rubacece. Q. amara, the only known species, is a very ornamental, low-growing tree, native of Gui- ana. It produces long, upright racemes of bright scarlet flowers, the petals of which are curiously twisted together. They flower freely if in a green-house with plenty of heat ; their size, however, will not warrant their general introduction. The wood is intensely bitter, and the extract is used as a substitute for hops in making beer. Drinking cups are made from the wood, for the tonic quality . it is supposed to impart to the water if allowed to stand in them a short time before QUE drinking. The wood of this tree is the Quas- sia of commerce. Quebec Oak. Quercus alba. Queen Lily. See Phmdfanassa. Queen of the Meadow. See Spiraa Ulmaria, and S. Salicifolia. Queen of the Prairies. Spiraea lobata. Queensland Plum. See Davidsonia. Que'rcitron. See Quercus tinctoria. Que'rcus. The Oak. From the Celtic quer, fine, and cuez, a tree ; others derive it from the Greek word choiros, a pig ; because those animals feed on the acorns. Nat. Ord. Cupu- liferce. An extensive genus of well-known trees, comprising about one hundred and fifty spe- cies, chiefly confined to the northern regions of the globe, being rarely met in the southern hemisphere. They are mostly trees of large size ; a few only may be considered shrubs. A number of the species are evergreen, one of the most valuable of the class being Q. virens, or Live Oak, which grows from Virginia southward, and the value of the timber increases, because of its quality, the further south it is found. Q. alba, White Oak; Q. tinctoria, the Quercitron, Black, Dyer's, or yel- low-barked Oak, and Q. Prinus, the Chestnut Oak, furnish the most valuable timber for the mechanic arts. The Washington Oak, at Fishkill-on-Hudson, is of the latter species, and is one of the historical old trees of this country, of which the "Garden and Forest," December, 1888, says : "Washington's headquarters remained on the west bank of the Hudson, between New- burgh and New Windsor, from the spring of 1782 to August 18th, 1783 ; and during this time he crossed the river frequently for the purpose of visiting the troops in camp upon Fishkill Plain, near the village of that name. The most convenient landing-place on the east bank was upon a long, low point of land formed to the north of the mouth of Fishkill Creek, known as ' Presqu'ile,' and here, according to the tradition of the locality, under two large Oak trees, Washington always mounted and dismounted from his horse as he started and returned from the camp. "One of these trees alone remains; its companion was blown to the ground on the 10th of August, 1881. The story of Washing- ton's connection with these two Oaks seems to be abundantly substantiated. The Com- mander-in-Chief was often accompanied on these excursions from his headquarters to the camp at Fishkill by his Adjutant-General, William Denning, whose son, also William Denning, at that time fourteen years of age, was sometimes allowed to join the party. The impressions made upon the boy by the incidents of this period were not effaced ; and many years later, in 1822, after a life of travel and adventure, he returned to the Hudson and purchased from a member of the Ver- plank family the point of land, and the old 362 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS QUI Oaks, still associated in his mind with the Commander-in-Chief of the American Army and the first President of the United States. The daughter of the second William Denning, to whom we are indebted for these facts, still inhabits the old mansion built on ' Presqu'ile ' in 1813 ; and her life and that of her father span the years which separate us from the days of Washington and the Colonial Army. " The tree is still healthy and vigorous, and standing directly at the top of the low river bank. The trunk girths, at the present time, twenty-one feet, and, judging from the age of its companion, which was blown down seven years ago, eight or ten centuries may have passed since the acorn from which it sprang fell to the ground." Q. macrocarpa, the Over-cup White Oak, and Q. coccinea, the Scarlet Oak, are the most beautiful for shade trees. Q. ilicifolia, is the common Scrub Oak, that rarely attains a height of eight feet. Q. infectoria, a native of the Levant, is a very common species, the branches of which are liable to be stung by insects, causing the formation of the Gall Nuts of commerce. All the species are invalu- able for timber or fuel, excepting the low- growing kinds. The bark of all the species con- tains large quanties of tannin, which gives it a value exceeding that of the timber. Q. suber, Cork Oak, a native of southern Europe and northern Africa, furnishes the Cork of com- merce. The outer layers of bark in this tree increase annually, and after eight or nine years fall off; but for commercial purposes they are removed one or two years pre- viously. The bark of the tree is removed by incisions round the top and bottom of the tree, and by a long one connecting these two, which allows the bark to be stripped off. This is effected when the bark is most firmly attached to the wood, in order that the inner- most layers of bark may not be injured, nor the health of the tree impaired, more than is necessary. The trees furnish a crop of bark once in eight or nine years. Quilla'ja. From the Chilian name Quillai. A small genus of South American trees, belong- ing to the Nat. Ord. Rosacea, remarkable for possessing soap-like qualities. The bark of Q. saponaria, which is a tree from fifty to sixty feet high, is rough and dark-colored externally, but inside consists of numerous whitish layers, which contain a RAD large quantity of carbonate of lime and other mineral matters. It is also rich in a vegeta- ble soap-principle, called Saponine, and there- fore much used as a substitute for Soap. Quinate. Arranged in fives. Quince. See Cydonia. Quince. Bengal. JEgte, marmelos. Quinine Plants. The principal plants produc- ing the Quinine-bark of commerce are several species of Cinchona, the principal of which are the Yellow bark, C. Calisaya ; the Gray or Huanuco bark, C. micrantha, and C. nitida ; the Loxa or Crown-bark, the produce of C. Con- daminea (syn. C. officinalis), and the Red bark furnished by C. succirubra. Quin'tinia. Named for La Quintinie, a French writer on horticulture. Nat. Ord. Saxifra- gacem. A small genus of shrubs or small trees, natives of New Zealand and southern Aus- tralia. The genus is closely allied to EscaU lonia, and the species are seldom found in cultivation. Quinsy-Berry. The fruit of Ribes nigrum. Quisqu'alis. From quis, who, and qualis, what kind ; referring to the fact that when the genus was named it was uncertain to what class or order it belonged. Nat. Ord. Combre- taceai. A genus of plants indigenous to tropical and sub-tropical Asia and Africa, and consist- ing of climbing shrubs, with opposite, rarely alternate leaves, and axillary or terminal spikes of flowers. These are very fine plants for the hot-house or a warm green-house, and are great favorites with those who grow them. Q. Indica, Q. glabra, and Q. Sinensis, are among the best, bearing brilliant red, orange red, and rose-colored flowers. Propagated from cuttings of young wood. First introduced into England in 1815. Quitch, or Quick Grass. The common name for an intolerable pest. See Triticum. Quiver Tree. A common name for Aloe dicho- toma. Quivi'sia. Bois de Quivi is the name given in the Isle of France. Nat. Ord. MeliacecB. A genus of trees and shrubs, natives of Mauritius, Bourbon and Madagascar. Q. heterophylla, the only species yet introduced, has white flowers borne in axillary clusters, but is of little horticultural interest. E. Rabbit Berry. Shepherdia argentea. abbit Foot. Trifolium arvense. Rabbit Root. Aralia nudicaulis. Raccoon Berry. Podophyllum Peltatum. Race. A term applied to varieties of plants as distinguished from species, when they can be perpetuated by seed through a series of gen- erations, when they become permanent varie- ties. The Cauliflower, Broccoli, Cabbage, etc., are distinct races, which have sprung from the species Brassica oleracea. Raceme. An inflorescence in which the flowers are arranged singly on distinct pedicles along a common axis ; a spike with stalked flowers, as the Laburnum. Racemose. Flowering in a raceme. Rachis. The axis or central stem of an inflor- escence, or of a compound leaf. Radial. Growing on the circumference of a circle. Radiate. Diverging from a common centre, like rays, as the arms of an umbel, or the ligu« late florets of any composite. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 363 RAD Radical. Springing from the root, or from its crown. Radicans. Rooting from the stem or leaves. Radicle. The first root of a plant, rudimentary in the embryo. Radicose. Having a large root. Radish. The well-known esculent root of Ra- phanus sativus (which see). The common gar- den Radish is a hardy annual, entirely un- known in its native state. It is usually credited to China. It has long been held in high esteem, and before the Christian era a volume was written on this plant alone. The ancient Greeks, in offering their oblations to ApolJo, presented Turnips in lead, Beets in silver, and Radishes in vessels of beaten gold. Pliny observes that Radishes grow best in saline soils, or when they are watered with salt water ; and hence, he says, the Radishes of Egypt are better than any in the world, on account of their being supplied with nitre ; modern experience, however, does not allow us to endorse this. He gives some account of the kinds grown at Rome in his day, one of which he describes as being so clear and transparent that one might see through the roots. The Radish was introduced into Eng- land during the sixteenth century. Four kinds were cultivated by Gerarde in the latter part of the reign of Queen Elizabeth. Since that time many new varieties have been in- troduced and disseminated by European seedsmen and gardeners. The seed is exten- sively grown in France and Germany, and to those countries we are indebted for our sup- ply more than to any other. For a seed crop the plants are taken from a seed-bed and transplanted when quite small, an operation that can only be carried on profitably where labor is very cheap, When ripe, the plants are cut to the ground and stacked, and allowed to remain so a year before they are threshed. If this care is not observed, and the seed threshed out soon after ripening, it will invariably become heated and spoiled, and this is the chief cause of failure in the germination of the seed. The seed retains its vitality a number of years. The varieties of Radish now most prized are : French Break- fast, Early Round Dark Red, Early Scarlet Turnip, Wood's Early Frame, White-tipped Scarlet Turnip, and for winter the Rose Chi- nese. Radishes are largely grown in the Southern States to be shipped north, as it is a vegetable probably more than any other grown, that is appreciated for its earliness. Immense quantities are raised under glass in green-houses, hot-beds, and cold-frames in the vicinity of all large cities. It is estimated that upward of twenty acres are raised under glass in the vicinity of New York. A light, rather sandy soil, well enriched with short stable manure, suits them best. Under glass the temperature should not exceed 60° at night, with ten to fifteen degrees higher dur- ing the day. The variety most used for forc- ing is the Round Dark Red. Radish. Horse. Cochlearia Armoracia. Sea. Raphanus maritimus. Rat-Tail. See Raphanus caudatus. Water. Nasturtium amphibium. RAK Radius. The circumference or outer side of the circle formed by umbels or heads, or other such parts. Radix. The root ; that part which is the de- velopment of the radicle. Raffia, or Roffia. See Raphia. Raffle'sia. Patma-wort. Named after Sir Stamford Raffles, who discovered the plant in the interior of Sumatra, where it is called Ambun-Ambun. Nat. Ord. Rafflesiacece. The typical genus of a wonderful order of parasitical plants resembling some species of Fungi in general appearance, but which, ac- cording to the authority of the celebrated English botanist, Robert Brown, is a true flower, having stamens in one plant and pis- tils in another. R. Arnoldi was found in the Island of Sumatra about sixty years ago, and was then, as it is now, considered to be one of the greatest wonders of the Vegetable Kingdom. It consists of five fleshy lobes or petals, each three feet across, of a spotted or mottled red color, the centre forming a cup- like dish, capable of holding six quarts of water. It has the offensive odor of some species of Fungi, and was first supposed to belong to that order from this fact, and its general resemblance to the Fungus class. Ra'fnia. Named in honor of C. G. Rafn, a Dan- ish botanist, who wrote a flora of Denmark in 1796. Nat. Ord. LeguminosaB. A genus of glaucous, often glabrous, shrubs, natives of South Africa. They all have yellow flowers in short terminal racemes. A few species, much resembling some of the Croto- larias, are in cultivation, and are propagated by cuttings of the firm side shoots, or by seeds. Ragged Robin. Lychnis Flos-cuculi. Ragged Sailor. See Polygonum. Ragweed. Ambrosia trifida. Ragwort. See Othonna, and Senecio Jacobim,. Rain-berry. Rhamnus catharticus. Rainbow Flower. A popular name for the genus Iris. Rainbow Plant. A name given to Alternanthera paronychioides major. Raisin-Tree. Japanese. A common name for Hovenia dulcis, and Ribes rubrum. Rake. This is the implement usually used for leveling the soil after digging, or in cleaning up walks, etc., but for many years we have found the steel rake, of a size suitable to the work to be done, to be the most effective tool used in our grounds for the prevention of weeds. Nearly all our first "hoeing" is done by these rakes; that is, the ground, in from three to four days after planting or sowing, is raked over, thus destroying the weeds just as they begin to germinate and before they ap- pear on the surface. In from five to ten days, according to the state of the weather, the ground is again gone over with the rakes. We are no believers in deep hoeing in newly- planted ground ; it is only when plants begin to grow, and when the soil gets hard, that deep hoeing is beneficial. By the use of the steel rake in this manner, three times as much work can be done as by the hoe. It cannot 364 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS EAM it is thus used before the weeds appear on the surface, one man will do more than six will if delay has been made until the weeds have to be cut down by the hoe. Ramee or Ramie. See Baehmeria. Rame'nta. Thin, chaffy scales with which the stems of some plants, especially Ferns, are covered. Ramification. Sub-divisions of roots, branches, leaves, or panicles. Ramiflorous. Flowering on the branches. Ramo'ndia. Named after L. Raymond, a French botanist. Nat. Ord. Gesneracece. R. Pyrenaica, the best known species, is a very pretty little perennial, growing only three to four inches high, with the flower- stalks springing from a dense mass of rough, dark green leaves. The general habit of growth of the plant very much resembles that of a Primrose. It is quite hardy, and admirably adapted for rock-work ; but it will grow in the border, where it is not too warm and dry. It begins to flower in May, and continues in bloom nearly the whole summer. It is a native of the Pyrenees, whence it was introduced about 1600. Parkinson describes it as the " Blew Beares Eares with Borage leaves." The flowers, however, are not blue, but pale lilac ; propagated by root division, or from seed. Ramose. Divided into many branches. Rampion (Campanula Rapunculus). A hardy biennial, the fleshy roots of which are usea in salads, either boiled or in a raw state. The leaves are also blanched and used in winter salads. It is very little cultivated. Ram's Head. A popular name for Cypripedium arietinum. Ramstead. One of the common names of Lin- aria vulgaris. Ramulose. Bearing many small twigs, or small branches. Ra'ndia. Named after J. Rand, a London bot- anist. Nat. Ord. Rubiacece. A small genus of green-house evergreen shrubs, natives of the East Indies, and allied to Gardenia. They are rarely grown as flow- ering or ornamental plants. The powdered root of some of the species is sold as Indian Cockle, and is used to intoxicate or stupefy fish, which permits their easy capture. Ranuncula'cese. A large natural order of her- baceous herbs, rarely shrubs or climbers, with radical or alternate leaves, very fre- quently much cut or divided. The species are numerous in Europe and northern Asia, and less so in North America. There are also a few found in the temperate regions of the southern hemisphere. Throughout the order there is a tendency to an acrid, caustic and more or less poisonous principle, volatile in the foliage but virulent in the roots. The narcotic and poisonous qualities of the Aco- nites are well known. There are about forty genera, and upwards of twelve hundred spe- cies. The well-known garden plants, Aconi- tum, Clematis, Anemone, Pceonia, and Ranun- culus are good examples. Ranu'nculus. Buttercup, Golden Cup, King's Cup, and Crowfoot. From rana, a frog ; many of the species inhabit marshy places fre- quented by frogs. Nat. Ord. Ranunculacece. BAP The species may be divided into two kinds : border flowers and florists' flowers. The lat- ter consist of some hundreds of the varieties obtained from the species Ranunculus Asiati- cus, a native of the Levant, with tuberous roots, which is rather too tender to endure the winter in the open air without some kind of protection. The wild plant grows natural- ly in Persia, in meadows which are moist dur- ing winter and in the growing season, but dry during a great part of summer. The usual season for planting the Kanunculus is from September to November. The roots may be placed about four inches apart each way, cov- ered with two inches of soil, and protected by straw, mats, or other material, during severe frosts. The plants will come into flower in June, and when the leaves wither the roots may be taken up, dried in the shade, and pre- served in a dry place till they are wanted for replanting. As the plant seeds freely, even when semi-double, new sorts without end may be raised from seed, which may be sown in pots or flat pans as soon as it is gathered, and placed in a cold frame. The common mode, however, of propagating the Kanuncu- lus is by separating the offsets from the larger roots. Several of the species are weeds with us, and common in moist pastures, having been introduced from Europe at an early day. They have become extensively naturalized, so much so as to be a nuisance to farmers in some places, and are popularly known as Buttercups. R. acris flore-pleno, the Yellow Bachelor's Buttons, is a profuse flowerer, the blossoms being in button-like rosettes, and Buttercup yellow in color. The double vari- ety of R. Aconitifolius, is known in Britain as " Fair Maids of France " and " Fair Maids of Kent," and, with the foregoing species, is an excellent and ornamental border plant, flour- ishing best in a deep, moist loam. R. am- plexicaulis, is a most beautiful herbaceous plant, growing about a foot high, with glau- cous-gray foliage, and pure white blossoms an inch or more across, with bright yellow cen- tres. It also grows best in a deep, moist loam, and is the better for the protection of a cold frame during winter. Rape. Brassica napus. A hardy biennial some- times grown in gardens as a salad plant. Rapha'nus. Radish. From ra, quickly, and phainomai, to appear; alluding to the quick germination of the seeds. Nat. Ord. Cruci- ferce. A very useful and widely grown genus of plants, including the well-known Radish of the garden. R. caudatus, the Bat-tail Badish, said to be a native of Java, is commonly culti- vated in the West Indies for its edible pods. For culture, etc., see Radish. Ra'phia. From the native name of the Mada- gascar species. Nat. Ord. Palmaceaz. The species forming the genus of Palms are confined to three very limited but widely separated localities; one, R. tcedigera, being found onlv on the banks of the Lower Amazon and Para Rivers in Brazil ; another, R. vinifera, on the west coast of Africa ; while the third, R. Ruffia, is only known as a cultivated plant in Madagascar and the neighboring islands. All three inhabit low, swampy lands in the vicinity of the sea or river banks, within the influence of the tides. They have stout, un- TYPES OK RADISHES. LONG 80A.RLET. OLIVE SCABLET. OLIVE WHITE. FEENCH BREAKFAST. ' rrm RIBES (GOOSEBERRY). RANUNCULUS (DOUBLE FRENCH). AND GENEEAL HOBTICULTUEE. 365 EAS armed, ringed trunks of no great height, and bear gigantic, pinnate, spiny leaves, often fifty or more feet in length, and erect, so that the entire trees are sometimes sixty or seventy feet high. The flower spikes are also of large size and much branched, hanging down from among the leaves, and measuring as much as six feet in length, the branches being arranged in two opposite rows, and the ulti- mate ones bearing the flowers resembling flat- tened catkins. Both sexes are borne on the same spike. The fruit spikes sometimes weigh as much as two or three hundred pounds, and bear a large number of one-seeded fruits rather larger than eggs, covered with shining, bony, overlapping scales. These Palms furnish material for a great variety of useful purposes, such as the manufacture of baskets, boxes, mats, rope, bags, etc., besides thatch for houses and other uses. While one (R. vinifera) produces Palm wine in abundance, another (R. Ruffia) has furnished the gardener with his best tying material. This species was introduced from Madagascar into England as long ago as 1820, but it has only been within the past ten years that its great value as a fibre-producing plant has been known outside of its native home. Raffia, as a tying material for plants, either in the green-house or the garden, supersedes Cuba bast and Russia matting to such an extent that these fibres are now rarely used for this purpose. It may be added here, that Dr. Von Martius, the great authority on Palmaceous plants, re- moved the above mentioned three species from Sagus, and placed them together under the generic name Raphia. Sagus Ruffia, and Raphia Ruffia, are therefore one and the same plant. These Palms require a high, moist temperature for perfect development. Propa- gated by seeds. Raspberry. See Rubus. Raspberry-jam Tree. The Acacia acuminata, of western Australia, from which is obtained a hard, heavy wood, with an odor resembling Easpberry-jam. Rattan Cane. A common name for Calamus Draco, and other species. Rattan Palm. See Rhapis. Rattle. Eed. A common name for Pedicularis sylvatica. Rattle. Yellow. Rhinanthus Crista-galli. Rattlesnake Grass. Glyceria Canadensis. Rattlesnake Orchid. See Pholidota. Rattlesnake Plantain. A local name for Good- yera pubescens. Rattlesnake Root. Nabalus albus. Rattlesnake's Master. Eryngium Yucccefolium ; also a local name for Liatris scariosa and L. squarrosa. Rattlesnake Weed. Hieracium venosum. Ravena'la. Said to be the native name of the plant in Madagascar. Nat. Ord. Scitaminea. A genus comprising two splendid orna- mental stove plants very much resembling the Musa. One is a native of northern Brazil and Guiana, the other, R. Madagascariensis, as the name implies, of Madagascar. This noble plant is called by the French the " Traveller's Tree " on account of the water which is stored up in the large cup-like BEG sheaths, and which is sought for by travelers to allay their thirst. The seeds are edible, and the blue pulpy aril surrounding them yields an essential oil. Syn. Urania speciosa. Ravene'a Hildebrandtii. The only described species is a neat, slender Palm, nearly allied to Hyophorbe. It is a native of the Comoro Islands, whence it was introduced in 1878. It is a very graceful, ornamental species, in habit like some of the Chamazdoreas. Ray. Parts diverging in a circle from a central point. The outer flowers, when differently formed from the inner in umbels. Ray Grass or Rye Grass. Lolium perenne. Receptacle. That part of the fructification which supports the other parts. Reclinate. Turned or curved downwards so that the upper part rests on the ground or some other object, as the branches of many trees. Recurved. Bent, but not rolled, backwards or outwards. Red Bay. Laurus Carolinensis. Red Bud. Cercis Canadensis. Red Cedar. See Juniperus Virginiana. Red Gum Tree. Eucalyptus resiniflora. Red-Hot Poker. See Tritoma. Red Lac. Rhus succedanea. Red Root or Blood Root. Popular names for the fleshy rhizomes of Sanguinaria Canadensis. See also Ceanothus, and Lacnanthes. Red Spider. See Insects. Red Top. The common name of Agrostis vul- garis, which see. Red Wood. An East Indian dye-wood, the produce of Pterocarpus santalinus, which see. Reed. See Phragmites and Arundo. Reed. Indian, or Indian Shot. Common names for Canna Indica. Reed-mace. Typha latifolia. Reeve'sia. Named for John Reeves, F. L. 8., of Canton, a zealous botanist. Nat. Ord. Ster- culiacew. A genus of green-house trees, natives of Eastern Asia. R. thyrsoidea, the only intro- duced species, is a very handsome tree with white or cream-colored flowers and alternate, broadly-lanceolate leaves. Introduced from China in 1826. Reflexed. Abruptly bent outwards, or back- wards. Refracted. Bent suddenly, so as to appear broken at the bend. Rege'lia. Named after Dr. E. Regel, Superin- tendent of the Botanic Gardens at St. Peters- burgh. Nat. Ord. Myrtacecz. A genus of green-house shrubs, with the habit of Beaufortia, natives of western Australia. R. ciliata, the only introduced species, forms a handsome spreading, more or less pubescent or hairy shrub, with bright red flowers in small dense globular heads. Propa- gated by cuttings of the half-ripened shoots, introduced in 1874. Regular. Uniform and symmetrical in shape of structure. 366 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS REH Rehma'nnia. Named in honor of Joseph Reh- rnann, a physician of St. Petersburg]!, 1779- 1831. Nat. Ord. ScrophulariacecB. A genus of two species of hardy perennial plants, natives of China and Japan. R. Chin- ensis is a very handsome, dwarf-growing plant, producing in summer large tubular flowers of a purplish color striped with a darker hue. It succeeds best planted in a moist, shady border, and requires to be wintered under glass. It is increased by cuttings. Syn. R. glutinosa. Rei'dia. An honorary name. Nat. Ord. Euphor- biacece. A genus of about a dozen species of green- house shrubs, allied to Phyllanthus, and by some authors included under that genus. They are small bushes, having slender twigs furnished with numerous small, entire leaves, bearing in their axils, either singly or in clusters, small greenish or whitish flowers tipped with pink. Some of the species are very pretty, though not considered useful flowering plants. They are mostly natives of the East Indies. They were first introduced in 1864, and are propagated by root cuttings. Reindeer Moss. See Lichen. Reine'ckea. Named in honor of J. Reinecke, a successful cultivator of tropical plants. Nat. Ord. Liliacew. R. carnea, formerly called Sanseviera carnea, the only known species, is a very pretty, hardy, herbaceous perennial inhabiting the marshy districts of Japan. It has grassy leaves six inches to a foot long, from the midst of which arises a flower stalk three or four feet high, bearing a number of rose-colored, or purple, fragrant flowers, each seated in the axil of a bract. The plants are well adapted for the aquarium or margins of fountains. A beauti- ful variegated variety is in cultivation, but requires to be pot-bound, or grown in poor sandy soil, or lime-rubbish, to retain its varie- gation. Propagated by offsets. Rein Orchis. See Habenaria. Reinwa'rdtia. Named after K. G. K. Rein- wardt, once director of the Botanic Garden at Leyden. Nat. Ord. Linacece. A genus found in the mountain regions of India, consisting of three species which were formerly included under Linum, but from which they differ botanically. R. triginum (syn. Linum) is an erect branching, deciduous- leaved bush cultivated for its handsome yellow flowers, which are nearly one and a half inches across and are all the more highly prized that they are produced freely in winter. Easily propagated by cuttings or pieces of the creep- ing root. R. tetraginum is a later introduction from the mountains of India. It has alternate, deep green leaves, its beautiful yellow and orange flowers being borne five or six at a time on each branch, in terminal or axillary racemes. It is an excellent free-flowering winter green-house plant. Rena'nthera. From ren, a kidney, and anthera, an anther or pollen-bag; in allusion to the kidney or reniform shape of the anthers or pollen masses. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A small genus of epiphytal Orchids, mostly rare, and exceedingly beautiful. R. Lowii is a remarkable species, a native of Borneo. This species grows to a great height, and has leaves from two to three feet long, with pendulous BET flower stems ten or twelve feet in length, clothed with numerous large, conspicuous flowers, resembling some large insect. It is allied to Vanda, and requires to be grown in a high, moist temperature. Introduced in 1843. Reniform. Kidney-shaped in outline. Repens. Creeping. Replicate. Folded backwards. Rescue Grass. Bromus Schrcederi. A valuable forage grass, thriving in any soil, but prefer- ring that which is wet or moist. Rese'da. Mignonette. From resedo, to calm or appease. The Latins considered its appli- cation useful in external bruises. Nat. Ord. Resedaceaz. For description of this genus see Mignonette. Reseda'cese. A natural order of annual or per- ennial herbs, with alternate, entire, or pin- nately-divided leaves, and minute gland-like stipules. They are natives chiefly of Europe, northern Africa and Western Asia, but a very few occur in southern Africa and northwest America. R. luteola, the wild yellow-weed, or Dyer's-weed, was formerly in great demand, affording, as it does, a beautiful yellow dye. The order contains about six genera and thirty species. Resin Plant. A common name for Bursera acuminata, and B. gummifera, Dammara Aus- tralia, Chiiacum officinale, etc. Restharrow. See Ononis. Restia'ceae. A natural order of perennial herbs, with horizontal or creeping rhizomes, mostly natives of Australia and southern Africa. The order comprises twenty genera and about 230 species, few of which are of any horticultural value. Restio and Willdenowia are the best known examples. Re'stio. From restis, cord ; alluding to the use of the plants in South Africa. The grass-like plants of this genus are used as cord at the Cape of Good Hope. The species are only of botanical interest. Restre'pia. Named in honor of Joseph E. Restrep, a naturalist who traveled in South America. Nat. Ord. Orchidacew. A small genus of epiphytal Orchids from Central America. They are very pretty little plants, with curious, many-colored flowers. They are of easy culture in a cool house. They all flower freely in summer, and should be grown in pots in leaf mould and sphagnum moss. They were first introduced in 1843, and are propagated by division. Resupinate. Inverted in position, appearing as if upside down. Resurrection Plant. A popular name given to Anastatica Hierochuntina and Selaginella lepi- dophylla. Reticulate. Resembling net-work. Retino'spora. Japan Cypress. From retine, resin, and spora, spore or seed. Nat. Ord. Coniferce. A genus of very beautiful, hardy evergreens, mostly dwarf and compact, particularly adapted for lawn decoration. They are closely allied to Cupressus, and are propagated in the same manner. The Japanese Retino- sporas are among the most beautiful of small evergreen trees. They are fine subjects for the lawn, are hardy in the latitude of New York, AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 367 RET and make very pretty hedges, especially R. dbtusa awrea. They are worthy of being largely planted. Introduced in 1864. This genus is placed by some botanists under Chamcecyparis. Retuse. Terminating in a round end. Revolute. Rolled back; as certain tendrils, and the sides and ends of some leaves. Rhamna'ceae. A natural order of trees or shrubs, inhabiting warm and tropical regions. The branches are often thorny or prickly, with the flowers in axillary or terminal clus- ters, cymes or panicles. The most useful genera, from an economic point of view, are Rhamnus, and Zizyphus, the species of which yield medicinal juices. Rhamnus davuricus, and R. tinctorius, yield the famous Green In- digo, the Lo-Kao of China, quantities of which have been imported into Lyons and used for dyeing silks, the shades of green imparted by it being exceedingly beautiful. The order consists of about forty genera and over four hundred species. Well-known examples are Rhamnus, Ceanothus, Cobletia, Phylica, and Hovenia. Rha'mnus. Buckthorn. From rham, a Celtic word signifying a tuft of branches. Nat. Ord. Rhamnacece. An extensive genus of hardy deciduous and green-house evergreen shrubs, the more use- ful and common being R. catharticus, common in Great Britain, where it is much grown as a hedge plant. The fruit of this species was formerly in great demand for its medicinal properties. The Alder Buckthorn, R. Fran- gula, affords a coloring matter, and the most important commercial product of the genus is the dyeing material used by calico printers, and known as Yellow-berries, or Persian Ber- ries, considerable quantities of which are an- nually imported from Asiatic Turkey and Persia. Although usually ascribed to R. in- fectorius, they are probably collected indis- criminately from several species, the unripe fruits alone being gathered. R. Caroliniana, (Indian Cherry) forms small bushes, which in summer are covered all over with small greenish flowers, unripe and ripe small, but very ornamental, red and black fruit in im- mense profusion. R. crocea, is widely dis- tributed on the Pacific coast, from the valley of the Upper Sacramento to Arizona. It most frequently occurs as a low, spreading bush, five to ten feet high, though in some localities it becomes quite arborescent, with a trunk ten inches in diameter. R. insularis, of Greene, is thought by Professor Sargent to be a variety of this species, and which he proposes to call R. crocea, var. insularis. It is one of the Mexican species, and is found in the Santa Barbara and Cedar Islands, off the Californian coast, and also on the mainland (Santa Cruz Mountains). It bears black, bilo- cular fruit, and is a much larger plant in every way. More information than now exists, based upon field observation upon the differ- ent California species of Rhamnus, is very desirable. Proper limitations of the different species and varieties are still doubtful, and really nothing is known of the life histories of these plants. Rhaphido'phora. From raphidos, a needle, and phero, to bear; alluding to the needle-like RHE hairs which abound in all parts of the plants. Nat. Ord. Aroidem. A large genus of climbing stove-house shrubs, with very large rooting branches, natives of tropical Asia, the Malayan Archi- pelago and the Pacific Islands. A few species are cultivated in plant-stoves to cover walls or dead stems of trees, but they are rather coarse, except in large collections. Rhapidophy'llum. From rhapis, a needle, and phyllon, a leaf ; in reference to its resemblance to the genus Rhapis, both producing suckers freely — a character by no means common in the Palm family. R. Hystrix (Blue Palmetto), a low-growing species with a short erect or creeping trunk, is a native of the Southern States, and is known in cultivation as Cham&rops Hystrix. Rhaphio'lepis. Indian Hawthorn. From rhapis, a needle, and lepis, a scale ; alluding to the subulate bracts. Erroneously spelled Raphio- lepis. Nat. Ord. Rosacea^. A genus of evergreen shrubs found in China and Japan. They are nearly allied to Crataigus, from which they are distinguished by their flowers being produced in panicles instead of clusters. R. Indica and its varieties are nearly smooth evergreen shrubs, with short terminal panicles of white or pink-tinted flowers of the size of those of the Hawthorn. They have been introduced into the green-house. R. Japonica, is a beautiful large-leaved species, forming a bush from six to ten feet high, and commonly cultivated by the Japanese, who plant it either with Azaleas and other bushes, or singly, as it forms a beautiful object when covered with its numerous bouquets of dark crimson flowers. Hardy in the vicinity of New York with slight protection. They are propagated by seed. First introduced in 1664. Rha'pis. From rhapis, a needle ; referring to the needle-like segments of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. A small genus of Palms, closely allied to Chamcerops. They are nearly all natives of Eastern Asia, and mostly of dwarf habit and slender growth. One of the species, R.flabel- liformis, is popularly known as Rattan Palm, and furnishes the walking canes so common on the streets. jR. humilus, is a rare and beau- tiful species, not often seen in collections, and is propagated by suckers. First intro- duced in 1765. Rhapo'nticum. From Rha, the old Greek name for Rhubarb, and Ponticus, of Pontus. Nat. Ord. Composite. A genus of annual or perennial herbs, one or two of which are cultivated in full collec- tions of hardy herbaceous plants. R. cyna- roides, a species introduced from the Pyrenees, growing three or more feet in height, has a stout stem and large leaves, covered under- neath with silvery down. R. pulchrum, is another very showy species from the Cau- casus. They are suitable plants for borders, the margins of groups, or for isolation, and are easily increased by division. Rhea. A name given to B&hmeria nivea, and B. utilis. Rhe'um. Rhubarb. From Rha, the Russian name of the river Volga, near which the Rhu- barb was found. Nat. Ord. Polvgonacex. Some of the species of this well-known genus 368 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS RHE have been cultivated from the earliest ages for the medicinal properties they possess. Dioscorides, who was physician to Antony and Cleopatra, wrote on its qualities, and recom- mended it for use. The Turkish Rhubarb, so largely employed in medicine, is the root of R. palmatum, a native of China, and is sent to Europe through Russia, by the way of Kiachta. It was formerly imported from Natolia, whence the name Turkey Rhubarb. The Turks get the credit of producing this important article of commerce, when, in reality, it only passes through their country. An inferior article used in the adulteration of this drug is grown throughout southern Europe. The Rhubarb of our gardens is a hybrid of R. Rhaponticum, a native of Asia, but of what particular part is not known, nor the time of its introduction. It was first cultivated in England by Dr. Fothergill in 1778, but did not come into general use as a culinary vegetable until several years later. As a market crop it has only been cultivated about fifty years. Many varieties have beeh introduced, for which we are chiefly indebted to the British gardeners. Some of the varieties, under high cultivation, produce enormous leaf-stems ; the size, how- ever, is largely at the expense of quality. The roots of R. palmatum, and R. officinale, furnish the Rhubarb of commerce, and R. Rhaponti- cum is also cultivated extensively for medici- nal purposes. Several of the species are very handsome, both in their foliage and inflores- cence; notably R. nobile, a comparatively recent introduction from the Himalayas, and one that is highly prized as a decorative plant. The radical leaves are large and glossy, bright- green in color, with red stems and nerves. The chief beauty, however, is in the bracts or stipules on the flower stems ; these are of a delicate straw color, shining, semi-transpar- ent, concave and imbricating, so as to entirely conceal the greenish flowers, the upper bracts being delicately edged with pink. Dr. Hooker, speaking of this Sikkim species as he saw it growing wild, says that it has such a singular and showy appearance, that its introduction into cultivation is greatly to be desired. He thus describes the plant: "The individual plants of R. nobile, are upward of a yard high, and form conical towers of the most delicate straw-colored, shining, semi-transparent, con- cave, imbricating bracts, the upper of which have pink edges; the large, bright, glossy, shining green radical leaves, with red petioles and nerves, forming a broad base to the whole. On turning up the bracts, the beautiful mem- braneous, fragile pink stipules are seen like red tissue paper, and within these again the short-branched panicles of insignificant green flowers. The root is very long, often many feet, and winds among the rocks ; it is as thick as the arm, and bright yellow inside. After flowering, the stem lengthens, the bracts separate one from another, become coarse, red brown, withered and torn ; finally, as the fruit ripens they fall away, leaving a ragged- looking stem, covered with panicles of deep brown, pendulous fruits. In the winter these naked black stems, projecting from the beet- ling cliffs, or towering above the snow, are in dismal keeping with the surrounding desola- tion of the season. The natives, it is said, eat the pleasantly acid stems, and call them Chuka." RHE Rhubaeb is a plant found in every well appointed garden. It is of the easiest cul- ture, and will grow in open sunshine or partial shade ; but for its best development a deep, rich, well-drained soil in open sunshine is indispensable. When wanted for private use a couple of dozen plants, which can be procured cheaply from almost any nursery- man, is the best way to get a supply ; but when wanted in quantity for market purposes, the cheapest way is to sow the se«d in March or April in well-prepared and richly manured land in rows four feet apart. When the plants come up so as to have covered the ground, thin them out to two or three inches apart ; and again later in the season, say by August, to two feet apart, so that they will now stand two feet between the plants and four feet between the rows. The last thinnings, if needed, may be used for making permanent plantations. Another plan of raising Rhubarb from seed is as follows : About the middle of March sow the seeds thickly in a cold pit or frame, in light, fibrous soil, such as leaf mould, so that the young plants will make fibres freely, and thus be easily transplanted. One pound of seed will be enough to sow six 3x6 sashes, and will give about one thousand plants. In four or five weeks after sowing, the plants will be fit for transplanting, which may be done in richly- prepared beds of six rows each, at a distance of one foot each way. By fall they will have made fine, well-ripened roots, which may be thinned out either in the fall or spring, leaving the plants that stand at four feet between the plants and six feet between the rows. The plants that have not been moved will give a partial crop the next year, or in about fifteen or sixteen months after the seed was sown. The roots lifted out as thinnings should be planted, either in the fall or spring, for a per- manent crop, at the same distances apart; but, having been disturbed, they will make a weaker growth, and no crop should be taken the first year of planting, as removing the leaves of course weakens the newly-planted root, which has not yet vigor enough to en- dure it. The second year after planting, how- ever, a full crop will be obtained, if the ground has been in a proper, well-pulverized and enriched condition. The most profitable and simple part of Rhubarb growing is by forcing, after a supply of large roots has been obtained ; and if forcing is to be continued, a succession of such supply should always be on hand, as the roots, after forcing, are worthless. All that is necessary in forcing Rhubarb is to take the large three or four-year-old roots from the open field, which, if well-grown, will be from fifteen to twenty inches in diameter, and pack them upright as closely as they can be wedged together (with light soil shaken in to fill the interstices between the roots) under the stage or benches of the green-house, or in a warm cellar, or, in fact, in any place where there is a growing temperature ; say an average of sixty degrees. But little water is needed, and none until the Rhubarb shows signs of healthy growth. There is no necessity for light ; in fact, the stems being blanched by being grown in the dark, are much more tender than when grown in the light and air of the open garden, and are therefore more valuable, besides being forced at a season (from January to April) when they are not AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 369 RHE obtainable in the open ground in the Northern States. Many of our market gardeners and florists, who, once having a supply of Rhubarb roots, pack them under the benches of the green-house, where vegetable or flowering plants are grown, realize nearly as much profit from the space under the stage (usually useless) as on it. It is also forwarded in another way by those who have no green- house. The roots are taken up in the fall and packed closely together, as is done in forc- ing, in what is known as a cold pit or frame, which is covered with leaves thick enough to keep out the frost. By March 1st the leaves are all removed, except two or three inches, when sashes are put on the frame or pit. By this forwarding process Rhubarb may be had from three to four weeks earlier than that grown out of doors. We have in this article recommended raising Rhu- barb from seed, as it is the cheapest and quickest way ; and experience has shown us that the varieties raised from seeds of either the "St. Martin's," "Victoria" or "Linneeus," come true enough to the originals for all practical purposes. Those, however, who are particular to have these kinds exactly correct, can obtain them by division. Rheumatism Root. See Jeffersonia. Rhe'xia. Deer Grass, Meadow Beauty. From rhexis, a rupture ; from its astringent qualities it is supposed to cure ruptures. Nat. Ord. Melastomacece. A small genus of very pretty hardy herba- ceous perennials, common in sandy swamps from New York west and south. The flowers are bright pink, large and showy. The plants do not grow above six inches to one foot in height, but, from their branching habit, com- pletely cover the ground with foliage and flowers. Rhinaca'nthus. From rhis, rhinos, the nose, and Acanthus ; alluding to the curious shape of the Acanthus-like corolla. Nat. Ord. Acan- thacece. A small genus of dwarf shrubs, natives of Africa, Madagascar, the East Indies, and the Malayan Archipelago. R. communis, the best known species, forms a neat bush bearing panicles of white flowers and oblong lanceo- late leaves. It is sometimes cultivated under the name of Justicia nasuta. Rhina'nthus. Yellow Rattle. From rhis, rhinos, the nose, and anthos, a flower ; alluding to the form of the corolla. Nat. Ord. Scrophulari- acew. A genus of hardy annuals, natives of Europe, northern Asia, and North America. They are interesting only as growing generally in poor wet land, and as being more or less parasitical on the roots of grasses. R. Crista-galli is one of our rare native plants, being found only on the White Mountains, the alpine regions of the Rocky Mountains, and the shores of Lake Superior, and northward. It has also been found at Plymouth, Mass., and in meadows near East Haven, Conn., probably introduced in both localities. Rhinope'talum. From rhis, rhinos, a nose, and petalon, a petal ; base of the upper sepal. Nat. Ord. Liliaceai. R. Karelini, the only known species, is a small bulbous plant from the Ural Mountains. RHI Its flowers are pale pink, spotted, somewhat resembling the Fritillaria, though inferior in beauty to the majority of its allies. It grows freely if cultivated in the same manner as the Lily, and is propagated by offsets. It was. introduced in 1834. Rhipido'pteris. From rhipis, a fan, and pteris, a fern; referring to the formation of the fronds. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacem. A small genus of Ferns allied to Polybotrya, but differing in habit. The species are curi- ous little creeping plants, with small frond& from one to three inches high. They are con- fined to the West Indies and South America. They are grown in the hot-house. Rhipo'gonum. From rhips, a rod, and gonu, a knee or joint; in allusion to the jointed stalk. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. Ornamental green-house evergreen climbers from New Holland. The flowers are white, disposed in axillary clusters, not unlike Myr- siphyllum. R. album, was introduced in 1820, and is propagated by cutting. Rhip'salis. Coral Cactus. From rhips, a wil- low branch ; referring to the flexible branches. Nat. Ord. CactaceoB. Very curious succulent plants, which are natives of South America and the West In- dies. As the Opuntias may be said to be all leaves, and the different kinds of tree Cereus all stem, so the Rhipsalis may be said to be all branches ; for the whole plant consists of a series of short, round, articulated branches, spreading in all directions. The flowers of this genus differ from those of Cacti gener- ally, in being small and not very handsome ; they are generally pale yellow. They are propagated by cuttings, and require the same soil and treatment as other Cactaceous plants. The species are all natives of the West Indies and South America. Introduced in 1818. Rhizome. A prostrate, more or less subterra- nean stem, producing roots and leafy shoots. Rhizo'phora. Mangrove. From rhiza, a root, and phoreo, to bear ; the branches send down roots like the Banyan Tree. Nat. Ord. Rhi- zophoracew. The best known species of this genus is a large tree inhabiting the muddy swamps close to the sea-shore in tropical climates. Its in- teresting character is thus described by Dr. Hamilton: "In the economy of Nature the Mangrove performs a most important part, wresting annually fresh portions of the land from the dominion of the ocean, and adding them to the domain of man. This is effected in a twofold manner ; by the progressive ad- vance of their roots, and by the aerial germi- nation of their seeds, which do not leave their lofty position till they have assumed the form of actual trees, and drop into the water with their roots ready prepared to take possession of the mud, in advance of their parent stems. The progression by means of the roots is effected by fresh roots, which issue from the trunk at some distance above the surface of the water, and arching down, penetrate the mud, establishing themselves as the pioneers of fresh invasions of the retiring element. In this manner the plants, after their descent from the parent trees, continue during their early years to advance steadily forward, till they have obtained a height of about fifteen 370 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS RHI feet, and gained a position considerably in advance of their parent trunks. After this, fewer additions are made to the roots, but the head begins to expand in every direction, spreading its branches on all sides. These branches, in their turn, send down long, slen- der roots, like those of the Banyan Tree (Ficus Indica), which, rapidly elongating, de- scend from all heights, and reaching the water, penetrate the mud, becoming in time, independent trees. Thus a complicated laby- rinth is at length formed." The fruit of the species is edible, and its fermented juice is made into a light wine. In Borneo a coarse, bitter salt is extracted from their aerial roots. Rhizophora'ceae. A natural order of tropical trees or shrubs, with opposite, entire leaves and axillary flowers, closely allied to Combre- tacecB and Lythracece. The order contains about fourteen genera, the chief of which are Halopetalwm and Rhizophora. Rhoda'nthe. From rhodon, a rose, and anthos, a flower ; in allusion to the color of the flower- heads. Nat. Ord. Compositce. A very beautiful genus of half-hardy an- nuals found in western Australia. R. Man- glesii and its varieties have white, rose, crim- son, and purple flowers. These plants are admirably adapted for the border in summer, or the conservatory or green-house in winter, as they come into flower early, and continue for a long time. The flowers, if gathered when young and dried in the shade, will re- tain their beauty during the winter, making them valuable for bouquets of dried flowers. For perfection of growth in the border, the seed should be sown in March hi the green- house or a hot-bed, and carefully grown on in small pots until all danger from frosts is past, when they may be turned out into the open border. For winter flowering the seed should be sown in August or September. Introduced by Capt. Mangles in 1832. Rho'dea. See Rohdea. Rhodio'la. From rhodon, a rose. Nat. Ord. Crassulacece. A genus of succulent plants, separated from Sedum, on account of their bearing fertile and barren flowers on distinct plants. Rhodochi'ton. A genus of Scrophulariacece, differing but little from Lophospermum, the calyx being less divided and the corolla not so open. R. volubile, is an interesting and useful climber either for the green-house or for sum- mer decoration in the flower-garden. It can be increased by cuttings or seeds. Introduced from Mexico in 1833. Rhodode'ndron. Bose Bay. From rhodon, a rose, and dendron, a tree. Nat. Ord. Ericaceae. A genus of well-known evergreen shrubs and low-growing trees, remarkable for their beautiful flowers and thick, luxuriant, glossy foliage. The species are widely diffused, be- ing indigenous to the United States, Europe, Asia, and the Indies. Some of the species are perfectly hardy, and others require the pro- tection of the green-house. Of our native species R. maximum (Great Laurel), common from Maine to Ohio, is a tall-growing shrub, with leaves from four to ten inches long, very thick and glossy. The flowers are a light r ose color, nearly white, with greenish throat, EHO and spotted with yellow or light red. R. Catawbiense, common on the Alleghanies from Pennsylvania southward, is perfectly hardy, and flowers most profusely. It seldom grows above four feet high-, but forms a symmetri- cal shrub, exceedingly ornamental for a lawn plant. This species is the parent of all our hardy varieties, having been hybridized with the Nepal species, R. arboreum. From this cross there has been raised a great number of beautiful kinds, most of which are hardy in the latitude of New York. The varieties in- clude colors from nearly pure white to dark crimson. All the hardy sorts are of easy cul- ture, growing freely in almost any loamy soil, but they prefer a moist situation, protected from cold winter winds. When first planted they should be mulched with any convenient material that will prevent evaporation and keep the roots moist and cool. Several fine species have been introduced from the Hima- layas, a few of them bearing but little resem- blance to the common Bhododendron, one be- ing a climber. The plants are propagated by seeds, cuttings, layers, or by grafting. Azalea, and Rhodora, are included in this genus by Bentham and Hooker. Rhodole'ia. From rhodon, a rose ; alluding to the color of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Hamameli- dacem. R. Championi is a beautiful green-house shrub, rivalling the Camellia, but of a very curious structure. It forms a small, ever- green tree, but would probably blossom freely as a shrub. The leaves are alternate, elliptic- ovate, bright green above, glaucous beneath. The flower-heads grow at the ends of the branches, and are two inches and a half in diameter, of a beautiful rose color, enclosing a large number of stamens. These heads usually consist of five flowers. It is a native of China, growing in the woods about Hong Kong. Introduced in 1850. Rhodomy'rtus. From rhodon, a rose, and myrtos, myrtle ; in allusion to the rose-colored flowers, and its alliance to the Myrtle. A genus of Myrtaceai, containing a few spe- cies of trees or shrubs, natives of Eastern Australia, tropical Asia, and the Indian Archi- pelago. R. tomentosa, the only cultivated species, known as the Hill Gooseberry, and Indian Hill Guava, has ovate-velvety leaves, downy beneath, and beautiful rose-colored flowers. Introduced from China in 1776, under the name of Myrtua tomentosa. Rhodo'ra. From rhodon, a rose; alluding to the color of the showy flowers. Nat. Ord. Ericacem. R. Canadensis, the only species, is a hand- some, low-growing shrub, with oblong, de- ciduous leaves, whitish and downy under- neath ; the showy, rose-purple, rarely white flowers appearing rather earlier than the leaves. It is a native of cold woods and swamps, New England to Pennsylvania, and northward on the mountains. Included by Bentham and Hooker under Rhododendron. Rhodotha'ninus. From rhodon, a rose, and thamnos, a shoot or branch. Nat. Ord. Eri- caceaz. This genus consists of a solitary species, found in the Alps of Europe, and long known as Rhododendron Chamcecistus. It is a pretty, dwarf, almost prostrate, evergreen shrub, AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 371 RHO with small oblong leaves, toothed and fringed on the margin, and solitary pale purple flow- ers, produced in May or June. Rhodoty'pus. From rhodon, a rose, and typos, type. Nat. Ord. Rosacea?. R. kerrioides, the only species at present known, is a slender-branching, hardy, ever- green shrub, remarkable for its large, termi- nal, pure white flowers, resembling those of an Althcea, but smaller. It is well adapted for the lawn, contrasting finely with the Wei- gelia and other hardy ornamental shrubs. Introduced from Japan in 1886. Increased readily by cuttings or layers. Rhoeo discolor. This is given in ' ' Nicholson's Dictionary of Gardening" as the correct name of Tradescantia discolor. Rhomboid. Approaching a Rhomb in shape; applied generally to leaves or petals. Rhopa'la. From Roupala, the Guianan name. Nat. Ord. Proteacece. A genus of South American trees or large shrubs, having simple or pinnate coarse leaves, conspicuous for their terminal or axil- lary racemes of yellow flowers, which are often covered with a rich brownish wool. A number of the species are under cultivation in the green-houses, but chiefly in botanical collections. Rhopalo'stylis. From rhopalon, a club, and stulos, a pillar; alluding to the club-shaped spadix. A genus of two species of Palms, known in cultivation as Areca Baueri and Areca (Kentia) sapida. Rhubarb. See Rheum. Rhus. Sumach. Derived from rous in Greek, which is from rhudd, a Celtic word signifying red ; alluding to the color of the fruit, and also of the leaves of some species in autumn. Nat. Ord. AnacardiacecB. An extensive genus of deciduous shrubs, natives of the United States, Europe, and Asia. They are all interesting from the beau- tiful colors their leaves assume in dying off in autumn. R. Toxicodendron, and its varieties, commonly called Poison Ivy or Poison Oak, are about as dangerous as the fabulous Upas Tree of Java. There is, however, a singular fact- connected with this plant that makes it dis- tinctive; some persons can handle it with impunity, while others, from the slightest touch, or even from the wind blowing over the plant, will have their arms, face and bodies fearfully and painfully swollen by it. The same is true, though in a less degree, when the leaves of Celery or Parsnip are touched by the arms or face when damp. R. venenata or Poison Elder, has so virulent a sap that it is said to occasion fever and inflamma- tion in those who cut it down. One of the most beautiful species is R. cotinus, Mist or Smoke Tree, a native of the south of Europe. It is remarkable for its feathery inflorescence. This species also yields the yellow dye-wood called young Fustic. R. vernicifera, a Japan species, is a small tree, and yields the famous Lacquer so extensively employed by the Japanese for lacquering various articles of furniture and small ware. It exudes from wounds made in the tree, and is at first milky white, but becomes darker, and ultimately black on being exposed to the air. Nothing is known respecting the mode of preparing it ; RIB that is kept a profound secret, as. one of their sources of wealth, R. typhina, the Stag-horn Sumach ; R. copallina, the Dwarf Sumach, and R. glabra, generally called the Smooth Sumach, are all handsome small trees or shrubs, exceedingly useful and valuable in ornamental planting when grown in a mass and kept compact by occasional shortening-in of, the more vigorous upright branches. They can be planted also with admirable effect as single specimens upon the lawn, and from the habit common to all the Sumachs, of spread- ing rapidly from underground shoots, they are excellent plants for clothing rocky banks, railroad cuts, and other rough places, where it is desirable to hold the soil from washing, and to shade the ground. There is a variety of R. glabra (var. laciniata), with deeply incised leaflets, discovered many years ago in Chester County, Pennsylvania, which is often seen in our gardens, parks, etc. The various species can be increased from seed, but a sup- ply of young plants can be much more readily obtained by cutting up pieces of the stout roots into pieces two or three inches in length and planting them in nursery rows. Vigorous young plants of a size fit for permanent plant- ing can be obtained by this method in a year. Rhyncho'sia. From rhynchos, a beak ; the keel of the flower is beaked. Nat. Ord. Legumi- nosoe. An extensive genus of herbs and under- shrubs, mostly of a twining habit. They are natives of the West Indies, Mexico, South America, and India, and are plants of but little beauty. R. precatoria has pretty little half-black and half-scarlet or yellow shining seeds, which the Mexicans string into neck- laces and rosaries. Rhynchospe'rmum. From rhynchos, a beak, and sperma, a seed. Nat. Ord. Apocynaceaz. R. jasminoides is a very beautiful, free- flowering and sweet-scented green-house climber, a native of India, China, and Japan. In habit it resembles the Jasmine, as its spe- cific name implies. It is a rapid grower, requiring only ordinary green-house culture. A variety with variegated foliage is very orna- mental. It was introduced in 1846, and is propagated by cuttings. Syn. Trachelosper- mum. Rib. The principal vein or nervure which pro- ceeds from the petiole into a leaf ; also any firm longitudinal elevation. Ribbon Flower. Cape. Spatalanthus speciosus. Ribbon Grass. Phalaris arundinacea picta. Ribbon Tree. Plagianthus betulinus. Ri'bes. Currant, Gooseberry. From Ribas, the name of an acid plant mentioned by the Arabian physicians, and which is known to be Rheum ribes. Nat. Ord. Saxifragaceoz. Our garden varieties of Currants have all originated from R. rubrum, a native of north- ern Europe ; and the same species is also indig- enous to the swamps of New Hampshire, north, and west to Wisconsin. The berries of this shrub are uniformly red in their wild state. The white, bronze, and other varieties, have been produced under cultivation. To the Dutch we are indebted for the first endeavors to improve this fruit by cultiva- tion, the nurserymen of other nations having paid but little, if any, attention to this branch 372 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS RIB of fruit-culture. At what date any of our choice varieties were produced we are unable to state ; but little improvement was made, however, previous to the nineteenth century, though the Dutch cultivated a white Currant in 1729. The Black Currant, R. nigrum, is a native of most parts of Europe, and abounds in the woods of Russia and Siberia. Cultiva- tion has added but little to its quality; its taste is peculiar, and to most persons disa- greeable. It is used chiefly for jellies. R. aureum, the Buffalo or Missouri Currant, is an ornamental shrub, remarkable for the spicy fragrance of its yellow blossoms in early spring. It is widely cultivated, and would be one of the most desirable shrubs were it not for its tendency to sucker and spread itself beyond bounds. R. sanguineum, is another ornamental variety, with rich crim- son flowers, the plant growing to a height of eight or ten feet. The Gooseberry, R. Grossu- laria, is a native of the United States, from Virginia northward, and west to Wisconsin, and also of northern Europe. From this spe- cies most of our garden varieties have origi- nated. The natural fruit is small, and has less flavor than the cultivated sorts. The English have made great improvements in the Gooseberry. Their favorite sorts are not adapted to this climate, however, owing to their tendency to mildew. An exception to this, however, is found in Paterson, N. J., where some English mechanics grow them in great perfection. P. hirtellum is a smooth- fruited species, common in moist grounds from New England to Illinois. Under culti- vation this species has been greatly im- proved, and its varieties are now generally grown in our gardens. There are several spe- cies with rough or prickly fruit, common throughout the Northern States ; they are, however, of little value for their fruit. Rib Grass. The common name of Plantago lanceolata. Rice. The common name of Oryza sativa. Rice. Canada or Indian. Zisania aquatica. Rice Flower. The genus Pimelia. Rice-paper Plant. Chinese, Aralia or Fatsia papyrifera. Rice-paper Plant. Malay. See Sccevola. Rice. Water or Wild. Zizania aquatica. Richa'rdia. Calla, Egyptian Lily, Lily of the Nile. Named after L. C. Richard, an eminent French botanist. Nat. Ord. Aroidece. Calla, the popular name of this genus, was given to it by Pliny. There are but five species, all natives of Africa. The Calla, or Richardia Africana, or JEthiopica, is a native of the Cape of Good Hope, and was introduced into England in 1731. It is a well-known plant of easy culture ; the only particular attention it requires is constant watering, and as warm a room as can conveniently be given it. The Calla is largely grown for win- ter flowers, and is of the easiest culture. Although it will grow and flower during the entire season without resting, if sufficiently fed, by being re-potted, yet it is more profita- ble to dry it partially off, say from June 1st to October 1st. This is best done by placing the pots on their sides, so as to prevent the rains , from wetting the soil, and covering them slightly with hay or moss, so as to keep the RIC sun from drying the roots too much ; or, if a position of partial shade can be had, there will be no need of covering the pots. The roots thus rested will flower more abundantly and produce fewer leaves, and thus twice the number of flowers may be obtained from the same space. It is not well to give the Calla too much pot room, else too much foliage is produced. We have found the best method to be not to use too large pots, and to use liquid manure freely. When an excess of leaves occurs, cut them off freely, withholding water somewhat for a week or so after cutting the leaves off. By this method the plants can be grown closely together, and a larger crop of flowers obtained from the same space. The Calla is one of the best of winter-flowering plants for room culture, needing little care beyond abundant water and an occasional syringing or washing of the leaves to keep them free from dust. The summer treatment and re-potting will be the same as recom- mended above. It is also a good plant for a large aquarium. R. hastata, the Yellow Calla, introduced in 1859, is very similar to the above both in leaves and growth, but the flowers are of a greenish-yellow color. R. albo-maculata, a species with beautifully varie- gated or spotted foliage, makes a showy plant. The flowers are smaller than the Calla, and white, with purple throat. It comes into flower in June, making it valuable for a succession. It is also desirable in a collection of plants with variegated foliage. The so-called Crimson and Black Callas are species of Arum (which see). The species are all propagated by offsets, which should be taken off when the plant is at rest, and grown on in small pots for one season. Richardso'nia. Named in honor of R. Richard- son, an English botanist, who published a work on horticulture in 1699. Nat. Ord. Rubiacece. R. Scabra, the Mexican Coca-plant, has been employed in medicine under the name of White Ipecacuanha. The genus contains five or six species, probably none of which are in cultivation. Rici'nus. Castor Oil Plant. From ricinus, a tick; resemblance in the seeds. Nat Ord. EuphorbiacecB. A monotypic genus of tall-growing, half- hardy annuals, natives of Africa and the East Indies. R. communis, the seeds of which yield Castor Oil, is a native of India, but is now extensively cultivated in the warmer regions of the globe. It is largely grown in southern Illinois and Missouri much in the same manner as Indian Corn. The produce of seed per acre is about twenty bushels. It is estimated that those States alone produce annually half a million gallons of oil. The pomace is used as a manure. There are a number of varieties grown in the garden, dif- fering but little in general appearance, but varying in color and size. Some of them, as Cambogiensis, Gibsoni, Sanguineus, etc., have bronzy-purplish leaves, and are exceed- ingly showy as a centre plant in a sub-tropical bed, the outer circles to be of Cannas in vari- ety, or Caladium esculentum. The plants are easily grown from seeds, which should be started in small pots in the green-house about the first of March, and turned out as soon as 372 EICHABDIA «THTOPICA. BICINUS CAMBOGIENSIS. ROMNEYA COULTERI. ROBE (WM. FRANCIS BENNETT), ROSE (AMERICAN BEAUTY). ROSE ("LITTLE GEM" M086). AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 373 RIG all danger from frost is past. 1548. Introduced in Rigide'lla. From rigidus, stiff; in allusion to the stiffness of the flower stalk when support- ing the seed-vessels. Nat. Ord. Iridacece. A small but very beautiful genus of plants, natives of Mexico. R. flammed, is one of the most interesting species. It grows from three to five feet high, with very broad and curi- ously plicate leaves, which look as though they had been regularly plaited artificially. The flowers are numerous, of a bright flame color, all issuing from one spathe, and open- ing only one at a time. The plant is of easy culture, requiring in all respects the same treatment as the Tigridia. Introduced into Britain in 1838. Hinged. Surrounded by elevated or depressed circular lines or bands, as the roots or stems of some plants, the cups of several species of Quercus, etc. Ringent. Gaping, like the mouth of a bilabiate corolla, as Antirrhinum. Riparious. lakes. Growing on the banks of rivers or Ripo'gonum. See Rhipogonum. Ri'vea. Named after A. de la Rive, a botanist of Geneva. Nat. Ord. Convolvulacecs. Very beautiful green-house evergreen twin- ers, allied to Ipomoza, natives of the East Indies. The ease with which the many an- nuals of this natural order are grown causes the more tender kinds to be neglected, or lost sight of altogether. R. hypocrateriformis (salver-shaped), the Midnapore Creeper, has large, pure white flowers, expanding at sunset, with a fragrance resembling that of the finest cloves. Don says this species is the prince of convolvulaceous plants. Rivi'na. Named after A. Q. Rivinus, a botanist of Saxony. Nat. Ord. Phytolaccacece. Green-house evergreen shrubs, natives of South America and the West Indies. R. humilis is commonly grown in green-houses for its beautiful racemes of little bright scar- let berries. It is called in the West Indies Rouge Plant, the juice of the berries being used as a cosmetic. R. rivularis, is a stronger- growing plant than the above, but in other respects is much the same. Propagated by seeds or from cuttings. Introduced in 1804. Syn. Piercea. Roast-beef Plant. A common name for Iris fcBtidissima. * Robi'nia. Locust Tree. Honey Bean. Named in honor of Jean Robin, a French botanist, once herbalist to Henry IV. of France. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. R. Pseudacacia, False Acacia, is the com- mon Yellow Locust, indigenous to the Middle and Southern States. It is extensively grown in many parts of the country for the valuable timber it furnishes, as being the most durable of all wood for posts, or where it comes in contact with the earth. It is one of our most valuable lumber trees, and is largely used for various mechanical purposes. R. hispida, or Rose Acacia, is a handsome shrub, with long racemes of beautiful rose-colored flowers without fragrance ; a marked contrast to the foregoing species. It is a native of the South- ROC em States, from Virginia southward ; is com- monly cultivated with ornamental shrubs. Rocambole. (Allium Scorodoprasum). A hardy perennial, cultivated for the use of its bulbs in a somewhat similar way to those of Garlic. Increase is effected by dividing the bulbs, which form annually, at the root, and also on the top of the stems. Ro'chea. Named after M. de la Roche, a botan- ical writer. Nat. Ord. Crassulacece. A genus of green-house evergreen succu- lents, allied to Crassula, and requiring the same general treatment They are natives of the Cape of Good Hope. Several of the spe- cies are under cultivation, their singular leaves and bright flowers making them attrac- tive specimens. R. falcata, one of the best, is propagated by cuttings. Kalosanthes (Cras- sula) coccinea is placed under this order by several authorities. Rock Beauty. A common name for Draba Pyrenaica. Rock-Cress. See Arabis. Rocket. See Hesperis. Rocket. Candytuft. Iberis coronaria. Rocket. Dyer's. Reseda luteola. Rocket. Larkspur. Delphinium ajacis. Rock Lychnis. See Viscaria. Rock Rose. See Cistus. Rock Gardens. These may be looked upon as comparatively modern institutions, while Rockeries are of ancient date. The latter are excellent in their way, but depend much on the nature of the material at the command of the operator, and on being constructed in such a manner as to produce a landscape effect. Although in Rock Gardens the ar- rangement and formal distribution of the plants are specially to be considered, it is, however, unnecessary that artistic effect should be altogether ignored, for it is quite possible to have a graceful arrangement with- out sacrificing the individual health and habit of the plants. Many of the best and rarest species will not succeed as well elsewhere as they do among the crevices on an elevated and well-drained piece of rock-garden, which, in addition, affords a situation for an endless variety of hardy and half-hardy plants. The late Mr. Hanson, after trying many locations and aspects, found he could grow many of the rarer Lilies to the best advantage when planted close by large stones in his rock-garden, which, indeed, he made specially for them. There are few gardens where something of this sort might not be constructed and ren- dered attractive, especially in localities where stones are plentiful. It may be introduced for various reasons, such as hiding any un- sightly object of limited height, or for giving diversity to an otherwise flat and uninterest- ing scene, or for giving a reason for a curved line — for there should be no deviation from a straight line in the garden unless for cause. It may also be successfully formed where the surface is generally flat by digging a deep cutting of an irregular outline through a piece of ground, and utilizing the soil thus obtained as mounds of uneven heights along the upper parts on either side, whereon dwarf 374 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OP PLANTS ROC trees, shrubs and evergreens may be planted as a background, and for affording shelter. The stones should be arranged to form cavi- ties of irregular size and shape, for the ac- commodation of various plants from the sides of a walk made in the centre of the cutting, up the gradual slope until the shrubs or back- ground is reached. Formality must be avoided as much as possible in the arrange- ment, and the stones should be deeply im- bedded in order to hold them firmly. The rock-gardens at the Kew Botanic Gar- dens (London), and at the Botanic Gardens at Edinburgh (Scotland), are probably as fine ex- amples as are to be found anywhere ; the lat- ter containing upwards of five thousand com- partments, of which over three thousand are filled with various species and varieties of alpine and dwarf herbaceous plants, besides numerous dwarf shrubby kinds from all tem- perate parts of the globe. The remainder with free-flowering duplicates, placed at uni- form distances to please the eye of those whose taste is more for color, but even to the botanical cultivator such free-flowering dupli- cate masses cannot fail to be otherwise than extremely interesting. All the irregular in- terstices between the plant compartments are filled with bulbous plants such as species of Tritelia, Calliprora, Calochortus, Cyclobothra, Cyclamen, Sisyrinchium grandiflorum, etc., and among them nothing more pleasing than Iris reticulata, which flowers abundantly in such situations. Many of the larger compartments are filled with spring-flowering bulbous plants, such as the common and Crimean Snow-drop, varieties of Scilla, Puschkinia, Grape Hya- cinth, vernal Snow-flake, Bulbocodium, dwarf Narcissus, etc. After the spring bulbs are done blooming and cut down, a little good soil is placed on the surface and the spaces are filled with dwarf annuals and shallow- rooted summer-flowering herbaceous plants, such as Leptosiphons, Clintonias, Gilias, Mes- embryanthemums, Holosteum umbellatum, Myo- 8urus minnus, Linaria alpina, Papaver alpi- num, dwarf Lobelias, etc. Such plants are all removed as soon as injured by frost, and the surface again covered with a little fresh soil, to protect the seeds of the annuals used. Large divisions are also appropriated for a selection of monocotyledonous plants, ex- clusive of bulbs, such as the dwarf and her- baceous species of Iris and Yucca, also species of Cordyline, Sparaxis, Helonias, Ophiopogon, Trillium, terrestrial Orchids, Convallaria, Uvu- laria, Narthecium, Tofeldia, Acorus, rare species of alpine Carex, etc. Every plant is distinctly labeled with its botanical name and native country; often with its popular name or other interesting peculiarity, rendering it at all seasons one of the most delightful as well as instructive por- tions of the whole botanic garden. Every one who has seen these rock-plants at the Botanic Gardens of Kew (London), or at Edin- burgh, is charmed with the effect. In the rock garden at Edinburgh over three thou- sand species of plants have been grown, a list of nearly fifteen hundred of which was pub- lished by the curator of the gardens in the transactions of the Botanical Society for 1887-88, as having flowered during 1887 ; and being not mere botanical curiosities, but well selected species of plants suitable for rock- ROD gardens, is just such a list as intending plant- ers would do well to inspect. While destitute yet of a botanic garden worthy of the name in America, yet there are grand opportunities for such collections in many of our public parks here, which would certainly be as interesting as the unvarying masses of color from Coleus and other bed- ding plants. We saw some very fine rock- work, exceedingly well planted, in the Boston Public Gardens in 1888, which seemed more attractive to the public than anything else in these very well planted grounds. Rock-work. Often, on cleaning up after the formation of new grounds, masses of rock and stumps are present, which are often difficult materials to get rid of ; such may be arranged in natural-looking mounds or screens for wind- breaks, which, when the interstices are filled in with soil and planted with bright-leaved or bright-flowering plants, can be made most attractive ; or in locations where rocks exist in their natural condition, they can be made highly interesting and ornamental by setting out plants of a drooping or creeping habit to overhang among them. The rocky caves in the grounds of the National Soldiers' Home, at Dayton, Ohio, have been so utilized both inside and out, and are one of the most attrac- tive objects of that grandly kept place. Purely artificial "rock-work " may be made by clink- ers from iron or other furnaces being dipped in water-lime or cement, which gives a pleasing drab-color to their grotesque shapes. These are used in building the " rock- work" to the shape and dimensions wanted, care being taken, that, in forming the upper courses, cavities eight or twelve inches deep and wide be left to be filled with soil in which to grow the plants. For this style of rock-work, in addition to the many plants grown for their pleasing or distinct foliage, bright colors may be used to a considerable extent to contrast with the ground -work, such as bright - colored Verbenas, Coleus, Lobelias, Rose-colored Geraniums, Golden Moneywort, and many other similar plants can be used with effect. A rockery so formed and planted even without having any pretensions to being natural, is always an attractive and interesting object, more especially if placed out of view of formal surroundings of any kind. See Rock-garden. Rodrigue'zia. Named after E. Rodriguez, a Spanish physician and botanist. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. Epiphytal Orchids, natives of South America. There is but one species generally cultivated, R. secunda, which has flower spikes from six to nine inches long, with carmine red flowers arranged on one side. It blooms freely in the autumn and winter months, requiring the same care given the Cattleya. Introduced in 1820. This genus is closely allied to Burling- tonia. Rods. Boning or Borning. This name is given to instruments used in leveling ground, or for determining heights in making a uni- form incline. They are indispensable when laying out walks or edges, leveling sod, and other operations of a like nature. Three are generally used, and are made of equal length, about three and a half or four feet long, provided with cross-pieces, which should AND GENEKAL HORTICULTURE. 375 ROE be fixed in the centre and at exact right angles. Before using them it is necessary that two points should be fixed, preferably at the extreme ends of the ground to be leveled. If level pegs are inserted at these points, and two of the three rods allowed to rest on them, as many intermediate pegs may be inserted as are thought necessary. This is done by a third person with the other rod, who drives the pegs in as he is directed from one of the ends. The tops of the pegs, if the leveling is properly done, should then show all the inequalities in the soil for the guidance of the workmen. As the light is found most deceiving at a distance, one of the rods is sometimes made an inch longer than the others, and a small hole pierced through the cross-piece, by using which many may be able to work more correctly than if all the rods were of equal length. Roe'lla. African Hare-bell. In honor of Wil- liam Boell, Professor of Anatomy at Amster- dam. Nat. Ord. Campanulacece. A genus of greenhouse shrubs or spreading herbs, natives of South Africa; they have generally blue flowers, which have somewhat of the dazzling glossy hue of Venus's Looking Glass. The shrubby kinds are of low growth, and rather difficult to propagate ; but the annual species are of very easy culture, and only require the usual treatment of half- hardy annuals. Rceme'ria. Purple Horned-Poppy. In honor of John James Raimer, professor of botany at Landshut, and author of several botanical works. Nat. Ord. Papaveracece. R. hybrida, the violet-flowered Horned- Poppy or Wind Rose, the best known species, is a very beautiful purple, annual flower ; but, unfortunately, its beauty is so very short-lived that it is difficult to find a perfect flower, as one or two of its petals drop almost as soon as the flower expands. It is quite hardy, and only requires to have its seeds sown in the open border in April. Roe'zlia. Named in honor of Roezl, a well- known collector who travelled in Central America, Mexico, etc. Nat. Ord. Melastom- aceoB. R. Granadensi8, the only species yet intro- duced, is an erect plant-stove shrub, with carmine-purple flowers, and opposite, ovate- lanceolate, hairy leaves. It was introduced in 1872, and is easily increased by cuttings. Roffia. See Raphia. Rogie'ra. In honor of M. Charles Rogier, a Bel- gian statesman. Nat. Ord. Rubiacea. A small genus of evergreen shrubs from Central America, allied to Rondeletia. In general appearance they resemble the Laurus- tinu8. They are very pretty green-house plants with bright pink flowers, and are easily increased by cuttings. Ro'hdea. In honor of M. Rohde. Nat. Ord. IAliacecB. R. Japonica is the only known species of this genus. It is a green-house, herbaceous, nearly aquatic plant, and a very interesting one for the green-house, having dark-green foliage and spikes of creamy white flowers, which are succeeded by spikes of showy fruit. There are three variegated varieties of this plant, all of which are most showy green-house ROM plants, and are well worthy of cultivation. Syn. Orontium Japonicum. Rollers and Rolling. The importance of, and the benefit derived from, using a roller on the lawn, especially in spring, is not fully appreci- ated. Freezing and thawing during winter causes the ground to heave and become un- even, and if it is not pressed back firmly with a roller, before hot weather, the grass is apt to be injured, or even killed in spots, besides leaving the surface very uneven for the mower. They are also useful for pulverizing the soil in the garden if it gets very dry and hard, as well as for firming in seeds such as Onions, Turnips, etc., that are generally sown in large breadths, and where they can be used to advantage. They are also requisite in every well-kept garden for keeping the walks firm and in good condition. They are, moreover, indispensable on the farm, both for firming the pasture in early spring, and com- pacting the earth round newly sown seeds, etc. We quote from our work, "How the Farm Pays," page 46. " While you, as a gardener, advocate the use of the feet to firm the soil, in sowing and planting, I, as a farmer, advocate the use of the roller. The object in both is the same; and I am satisfied beyond any shadow of a doubt, that millions and millions of dollars are annually lost to the farming community, through a want of the knowledge of the vast importance of firming the soil over the seed. This is particularly the case with Buckwheat, Turnips and other crops that are sown from the month of July until September, as at such seasons we very often have long-continued droughts, and the soil is like a hot ash-heap, and to expect germination from small seeds when sown in such soils, without being firmed against the entrance of the hot air, is just about as useless as if we threw them in the fire." Roman Hyacinth. See Hyacinth. Romanzo'ffia. Named in honor of Count Rom- anzov, a Russian nobleman, who was a patron of scientific studies. Nat. Ord. Hydrophyl- laceae. A genus of only two species of dwarf her- baceous perennials, having much the appear- ance of Saxifrages, natives of the sub-arctie regions of eastern Asia and western America. R. Sitchensis, the Sitka Water Leaf, the only species yet introduced, is a dwarf plant with reniform leaves, and white flowers ; it is an excellent plant for the rock-garden. Rome'ria. A synonym of Rozmeria, which see. Ro'mneya. The Californian Tree Poppy. Named after The Rev. T. Romney Robinson, an astronomer, of Armagh. Nat. Ord. Pap- averacece. R. Coulteri, the only species, is a very showy, tall, glabrous, herbaceous perennial, with large white flowers terminating the branches. It is increased by seeds in spring, and requires protection in winter. A native of California, introduced to cultivation in 1875. Romule'a. Commemorative of Romulus, the founder of Rome. Nat. Ord. Iridacea. A genus of very pretty hardy or green-house bulbs, removed from Trichonema. They are natives of western Europe, the Mediterranean 376 HENDEESON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS EON region, and South and "West Africa. They require the protection of a frame, and are increased by offsets. Rondele'tia. In honor of William Rondelet, M. D., a famous natural historian of Mont- pellier. Nat. Ord. Rubiacece. Beautiful hot-house plants, with white, yel- low, or reddish flowers, natives of the East and West Indies. R. odorata (syn. R. speciosa), the most common species, has terminal ■corymbs of scarlet flowers greatly resembling those of Ixora coccinea. The flowers are pro- duced in great abundance. One of the best known in our collections is R. amozna, bearing beautiful pink flowers freely. They are propa- gated by cuttings, and were first introduced in 1752. Roof-Foil. A name suggested by Ruskin for the House-leek, Sempervivum tectorum. Root Cuttings. See "Propagation by Eoot Cuttings." Rosa. Eose. From the Celtic rhod, red, the prevailing color of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Rosacem. "We find mention of the Eose in the earliest writings, both sacred and profane. So invaria- bly have the writers seemingly been intoxi- cated with its beauty that they have entirely forgotten or ignored its early history and cul- ture, leaving us in profound ignorance as to the origin of some of our most highly-prized species or varieties. It was undoubtedly very generally esteemed, and used for ornamen- tation on both public and private occasions. As an instance, it may be mentioned that the Eomans put it to a very significant use at some of their private feasts or dinners. A Eose was placed over the principal door, and he who passed under it silently bound him- self not to reveal anything that was said or done within ; hence arose the saying, sub-rosa, under the Eose ; and even now to tell a friend anything sub-rosa, implies that he shall not reveal it. The limit of this work will allow but a brief history and description of the various classes. The species, numbering up- wards of one hundred, are found disseminated throughout America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Australia, so prolific in rare and beautiful flowers, has not as yet contributed a single species, while Siberia, Iceland, Greenland, and Kamtschatka are fairly represented. China, Persia, and India have furnished some of the finest species. From all this material, culti- vators have created varieties almost innumer- able. From R. spinosissima, the type of those indigenous to Great Britain, nearly three hun- dred varieties have sprung, which are known as Scotch Eoses, though these are not as much valued as many other classes. The Cabbage or Provence Eose (R. centifolia) is one of the best known and oldest of the family. It is a native of Eastern Caucasus, and is sup- posed to be the hundred-leaved Eose of Pliny. It was introduced into the British Gardens in 1596. More than a hundred fine hybrid varie- ties had been produced by the French and English gardeners between this and R. Gallica, which are known under the general name of Provence Eoses. They are all very beautiful and fragrant, and all distinguished by their close, cabbage-like form, the curving inward of their petals, and their slender foot- stalks, which give a peculiarly graceful and EOS drooping appearance to the fully developed flowers. The Unique Provence is claimed to be of English origin, having been observed for the first time in 1777, growing in a cottage garden. It was probably one of those acci- dental variations of flowers commonly termed "sports," which sometimes take place in plants, one branch, shoot, or sucker pro- ducing striped or variegated flowers, while the original remains self-colored. The Unique Provence is pure white, of full size, globular form, and exceedingly fragrant. From this the Striped Provence is said to have been a sport. Its flowers are white, striped with deep rose. It is by no means constant, as some of the flowers will be wholly pink, others pure white, the two being frequently met with on the same branch. The Moss Eose (R. centifolia muscosa), the history of which is un- known, has by common consent been con- sidered an accidental sport from the Provence Eose. This theory is strengthened by the fact that plants produced by the seed of the Moss Eose do not always show moss, probably not more than one in three doing so ; those that do not, possess all the characteristics of the Cabbage or Provence Eose. The earliest history we have of it is, that it was sent to England from Holland in 1596, since which time many new kinds have been produced from seed and from sports of the original. The Crested Moss (R. cristata) is a sport accidentally found growing out of an old wall at Friburg, in Switzerland. This class, like the Provence, requires the highest cultivation ; a deep, strong, rich loam is required for the perfection of these more than any other class of Eoses. The French (R. Gallica) is indige- nous to the hedges of France and Italy. It is credited with being the R. Millesiana of Pliny, and is among the earliest cultivated garden Eoses. This section contains a large number of our variegated varieties, all having their parentage in R. Gallica versicolor. This family is very extensive, and unsurpassed for per- fection of form or richness of color. They are compact, erect-growing plants, producing large, open, flat flowers, borne on stiff, erect flower-stalks, thus forming a marked contrast to the Cabbage Eose. Of this there are prob- ably two hundred varieties. They are exten- sively grown in the neighborhood of Paris for the purpose of making the Attar of Eoses. The Hybrid Provence Eoses (R. centifolia hybrida) are hybrids between the French and Provence Eose. Nearly all the varieties are remarkable for their large, well-formed and very fragrant flowers. They are mostly vigo- rous growers, requiring but little care in cultivation. The Hybrid China Eose (R. Indica hybrida) owes its origin to the Bour- bon, China, and Tea-scented Noisette, crossed with the French, Provence, and other sum- mer Eoses, and also to the latter crossed with the former. The varieties first obtained from this crossing arose from accident, the effect of which was a systematic effort that resulted in producing some magnificent Eoses. Mr. Eivers, a celebrated rosarian, in speaking of these hybrids, remarks : " They give a long continuance of bloom, but never put forth secondary or autumnal flowers. This is a most peculiarly distinguished trait, and an interesting fact. Impregnate a Bour- bon, China, or Noisette Eose, all abundant AND GENEKAL HORTICULTURE. 377 ROS bloomers, with the farina of a French or Provence Rose, and you entirely take away the tendency of autumnal blooming in their offspring." The plants of this section are of very vigorous habit, and the flowers com- bine all the properties desired in the Rose, viz., size, form, fullness, and exquisite color- ing. The Hybrid Bourbon (R. Borboniana hybrida) owes its origin to the Bourbon Rose, which is itself a hybrid. There is some uncertainty about the crossing; it is sup- posed to have been R. Indica and R. Damas- cena. They are a very beautiful class of Roses, large and rather flat, with rich, velvet-like petals, much darker inside than on the outside of the flower. They flower moderately well in autumn. The original species of the White Rose (Rosa alba) is a native of the central part of Europe, and was introduced into Great Britain in 1597. The flowers are small ; the colors are white, blush, flesh and pink. They are readily distinguished from all other Roses by a glaucous appearance of the foliage, which appears as if covered with a grayish, impalpable powder, and by the shoots being almost spineless. They are perfectly hardy, and of easy cultivation. A type of this class is finely represented by the well-known variety Madame Plantier. The original species of the Damask Rose (R. Damascena), is a native of Syria, and was introduced into Europe in 1573. It is now, as formerly, largely culti- vated in the gardens of Damascus for the purpose of making Rose-water, Attar of Roses, etc. Nearly all the Perpetual Roses, now so much sought after, owe their origin to the older members of this family, which may readily be distinguished from other Roses by their rough spiny shoots and leather-like leaves. They are allot robust habit, and have large, well-formed flowers. The Sweet Brier (R. rubiginosa) is indigenous to many parts of Great Britain in its native or single state ; it has become naturalized in many parts of the United States. Not content with the delightful fragrance of the foliage, art has added several varieties with double bright rose-colored and crimson flowers. The best of them is Celestial Sweet Brier, with flowers very double and fragrant. The Austrian Brier (R. lutea) is a native of the North of Italy. Its stems are spiny, and of a reddish- brown color; it has a straggling habit of growth, leaves quite small, and flowers of cop- per and yellow color. From this species has sprung the Persian Yellow, which is said to have originated in Persia, hence its name ; also the Harrison Rose, a variety that origi- nated in this country. These two are as yet the best hardy yellow Roses that have been produced. The Double Yellow Rose {R. sulphurea) is very beautiful in warm climates ; but the flowers are produced with so much difficulty that it is rarely met with. The origin of this Rose is unknown. It is rarely seen in collections. The Alpine or Mountain Rose of the south of France and the Alps, is the type from which the Boursault Rose (R. Alpina), a very distinct family of Roses, sprung. It was originated by M. Boursault, of Paris, in whose honor it was named, and is remarkable for the abundance of flowers it produces. It is perfectly hardy, and well adapted for covering walls or trellises. The Banksian Rose (R. Banksiana), a native ROS of China, was introduced in 1807, and was named in compliment to Lady Banks. There are several varieties, producing immense clusters of white or yellow-colored flowers. The plant is a rapid climber, beautiful in foliage and graceful in habit. As it is an annual flowering species, and too tender to stand the severity of our winters, even if protected, it does not meet with favor among our Rose-growers. The original of the Many- flowered Rose (R. multiflora) was introduced in 1804 from Japan by the celebrated botan- ist Thunberg. Growers in France and Italy have since then originated several varie- ties, of which R. Grevillei is a fair represen- tative. They are annual bloomers, but too tender to live out without protection north of Virginia. The prairie Rose, jB. setgera (syn. R. rubrifolia fenestralis), is of American ori- gin, the type being the single-flowering Climbing Rose of the Prairies, from which have originated several double-flowering sorts, the best known of which are the Queen of the Prairies and the Gem of the Prairies. The flow- ers are light crimson, sometimes striped with white. Though wholly devoid of fragrance, they well deserve a place in every collec- tion. They are perfectly hardy, of the easi- est culture, and flower with great profusion. The origin of the Hybrid Climbing Roses is entirely unknown,and they present traces of so many sections that conjecture on this point is useless. Their hardiness in this climate has not been tested sufficiently to warrant an opin- ion as to their usefulness here. The Evergreen Rose (R. sempervirens) is of Italian origin, though the French have produced many of the varieties. In our Northern States it could scarcely be called an "evergreen;" at the South it could. The varieties are among the most valuable of Climbing Roses, being free growers, perfectly hardy, and producing immense clusters in a variety of colors. The origin of the Ayrshire Rose (R. arvensis var. scandens), like that of many others, is un- known, though it is generally credited to Scot- land. There are a number of varieties, all rapid growers, of easy culture, and well adapted for covering large trellises or arbors. The colors are white, rose, blush, etc. ; unfor- tunately they are rather tender for this vicin- ity. The class known as the Hybrid Perpet- ual or Remontant Rose, has distanced all others. In it we have beauty of form, fragrance, depth and variety of color, united with a constitution so vigorous as to endure the severity of our Northern winters. They have been produced by crossing the Hybrid China Roses with different varieties of Chinas and Bourbons, and, to a limited extent, with the Teas. This crossing has resulted in imparting to the more hardy Roses, to some extent, the blooming qualities of the tender sorts without impairing the vigor of the former. It is a mistake to suppose that all Roses in this class are perpetual bloom- ers, as their name would imply. They are, without question, the most valuable for their abundance of bloom in June, and most of them will give an occasional flower dur- ing the summer, and in favorable seasons, a fair show in autumn ; but to expect con- tinuous bloom, as the Chinas and the Teas afford, would be a sad disappointment. As a class they are nearly all hardy in the Northern 378 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OP PLANTS ROS States, and of easy culture, well adapted to be grown either as dwarfs or standards, and can with the greatest certainty be forced into bloom during winter and spring. Of the Gen- eral Jacqueminot alone, which is a well-known representative of this class, probably ten acres of green-house surface are used for forcing the flowers for winter for the city of New York alone, and in nearly like pro- portions all over the Union. The parent- age of the Damask Perpetual family is diffi- cult to trace. It is generally credited in a great measure to the old white and red Monthly Roses. There is no authority for this supposition, and no hint even as to the other Roses with which they were crossed. They are perfectly hardy, exceedingly fra- grant, and free flowering. The Perpetual Scotch (R. spinosissima) are hybrids, supposed to have been produced by crossing the Scotch Roses with the Damask Perpetuals. But little success has attended hybridizing these fami- lies, as there are but one or two varieties worth cultivating. The Bourbon or Isle de Bourbon Roses (R. Borboniana) are remarkable for their autumnal flowering, as they do not flower well until the first of September, after which they are in continuous bloom until checked by heavy frosts. They derive their name from the Isle de Bourbon, where they originated. The type of the race is said to have been an accidental seedling from a quantity that were planted for a hedge by one M. Peirchon, an inhabitant of the island. From many of its characteristics it is a supposed cross between the common China and one of the old Damask Perpetuals known as the Red Four-season Rose. The first plant was intro- duced into France in 1822, and at once attract- ed the attention of the leading Rose-growers at Paris, who commenced its cultivation exten- sively. Its tendency to vary was such, that within a short time a large number of seminal varieties were produced, from which some of our most desirable Roses have originated. Souvenir de la Malmaison, a light blush color (introduced about 1840), that has yet no equal as an autumnal flowering Rose, and the well-known Hermosa, pink, belong to this class. The Bourbons are distinguished for their fine foliage, compact habit of growth, and for the profusion and long-continuance of their blooming. They require a dry soil, only moderately rich. They are not perfectly hardy north of Washington, unless under very favorable circumstances. Of the perpetual Moss (R. centifolia) class, there are but few entitled to the name, and those only in the sense in which the Hybrid Perpetuals are ; that is with grains of allowance, which will be cheerfully granted for the pleasure a Moss Rose in autumn affords. This sec- tion is a cross between the old Moss and some of the autumn-blooming varieties. The continuous, or rather second- flowering, has been produced at some sacrifice of the moss. As a class they are poor growers, requiring a 6trong, deep, rich soil. A well-known type of this class is James Veitch, deep crimson. The Musk Rose (R. moschata) is one of the oldest Roses in cultivation. The original is a native of Madeira, Persia, and the north of Africa. The plants are rapid growers and profuse bloomers, in habit resembling the Noisette, requiring the same protection in ROS winter, and the same treatment in growing. They are late in flowering, not coming into bloom until about the first of September. They receive their name from the fact of their having a peculiar musk-like scent. They are not very hardy in most Rose-growing countries and, consequently, have received but little attention from growers. The China Rose (R. Indica) and the Crimson China Rose (R. semperjlorens) are so nearly allied that their history, description, and treatment are the same. They are both natives of China, and were first introduced into Europe in 1789. The two species are the parents from which a rather extensive and interesting family of Roses have sprung. They are of comparatively small growth, which is a distinctive feature in all their progeny. They are very generally known as Bengal Roses. In our climate they are not sufficiently hardy north of Washington to en- dure the winters without the most careful pro- tection. As garden roses they are very desir- able, being abundant and continuous bloomers ; but for cut flowers they cannot be highly re- commended, although the deep crimson color of some of the varieties, as Douglas, for example, makes them grown to a considerable extent, even though the buds are small. The Tea-scented China Rose (R. Indica odorata), the type of this section, is a native of China, introduced into England in 1810, and, with the Yellow China or Tea-scented Rose previ- ously introduced into France, became the parents of the best known and most exten- sively cultivated class in this country. They range through all the shades of yellow, orange, white, blush, pink, purple, and crim- son, and have nearly all a marked tea fra- grance. From the hundreds of varieties that have been produced it is difficult to determine the varieties that can be named as best. Those we name under the head of "Winter Culture of the Rose," are, perhaps, the best at the date of writing. Until 1877, no true striped Rose had been known to exist ; but in that year a sport from the crimson-colored Bon Silene came distinctly striped crimson and white, and has continued to hold to this peculiar and beautiful form. It has been ap- propriately named the "American Banner," and created quite a sensation in Europe from its decided novelty of coloring. The whole class of Teas are the most tender of the great Rose family. There is no sure protection for them in the open border without more trouble and expense than the plants would be worth in spring time. Most amateurs have very sensibly given up " pro- tecting " this class of Roses, and have found the more sure, easy, and inexpensive way to get Tea Roses is to procure young plants in spring, not more than four inches high, grown in thumb-pots ; these, if planted in a good, strong, rich soil, will produce more flowers during the summer and autumn months than double their number of old plants " kept over." At the present writing we have of the many varieties of Teas several thousands; plants that, when put out in April, could not be seen half-way across the nursery rows, but which are now (October) averaging two Roses a day from each plant, and have been for the past two months. For out-of-door culture, treat Tea and all other tender Roses the same as any bedding plant; AND GENEKAL HORTICULTURE. 379 ROS that is, to depend upon young plants for the season's flowering. Tea Roses can be pre- served without difficulty through the winter by taking up, potting, or •'heeling" in a box of earth, and keeping them in a cool, dry cellar, where the thermometer will not fall below 25°. When planted out in spring they should be well cut back, and if carefully planted in a rich soil, they will be nearly as good as young plants. In California, and nearly all States south of Richmond, the Tea Rose requires no winter protection, and is there seen in the greatest perfection. The Macartney Rose (R. bracteata), a native of China, introduced into England in 1795 by Lord Macartney, from whom it took its name, is a climbing evergreen Rose. Like most of the Chinese Roses, it is not hardy, and its value for winter flowering is not sufficient to warrant growing it under glass. The Miniature Rose (R. Lawrenciana), is a native of China, and was formerly consid- ered by botanists to be a distinct spe- cies. Mr. Rivers, of England, whose knowl- edge of the Rose is second to no one's, says it is but a dwarf variety of the common China Rose, like the Rose de Meaux or Pompon, which is a dwarf variety of R. centifolia. " Many plants," he remarks, " that have been long under cultivation have a tendency to produce from seed these pigmy likenesses of themselves." If there is any value in this class, it is as a curiosity for pot culture. The Cherokee Rose (R. Icevigata or R. Sinica) is a large-flowered single variety, a native of China. In the Southern States, where it has become naturalized, it is held in high esteem for the graceful habit of the plant, with its vivid green, glossy leaves. The flowers are of the purest waxy white, and are produced in the greatest abundance. It is often used for hedges, and for this purpose few plants could be better adapted. The type of the Noisette group of Roses (iJ. Noisettiana) is a cross be- tween the Musk Rose and the common China Rose. It was produced by M. Noisette, a French gardener, of Charlestown, South Caro- lina, in 1817. The seed was from the Musk Rose, and the plant partakes of its nature in its vigorous growth, and, to a limited extent, its fragrance, together with its habit of bloom- ing in clusters ; in all other respects it is en- tirely dissimilar from either parent. From this hybrid, some of our most useful and beautiful half-hardy Roses have originated, embracing several green-house varieties, the most superb of which is the Lamarque (white). This group contains some of quite dwarf habit ; all are noted for producing their flow- ers in large clusters ; this is particularly the case with the Washington, Fellenbergh and Aimee Vibert. The Marechal Neil Rose of this section is, like the General Jacqueminot, most extensively forced under glass for its buds; probably three acres of glass surface are used for it in the vicinity of New York City, but it is now superseded by some of the yellow " Teas" which, though not quite equal to it in quality, flower continuously. Though not hardy north, nothing can exceed the beauty of many of this class of Roses in some of the Southern States, where the thermometer does not fall below 20°. The finest of all these is probably the old " C^oth of Gold," now rarely met with true, Solfaterre being often sold for ROS it. Mad. Caroline Kuster, Celine Forrestier, Triumph de Rennes, W. A. Richardson, and Gloire de Dijon, all yellow Roses belonging to this section, are of healthy habit and easy of cultivation. The Polyantha Remontant Rose (R. Polyantha) was brought from Japan by Robert Fortune about the year 1865, and is distinguished from all others by its panicled blooms. This peculiarity is not retained, how- ever, when crossed with other Roses, at least in most of the varieties which have been claimed to be seedlings from it. Several va- rieties evidently crossed with a variety of R. Indica, have been produced and are very free flowering, highly scented, and most use- ful sorts, especially for bedding purposes, as they form a mass of bloom during the entire season. They are hardy in this latitude with slight protection, and are now largely used for borders to rosaries, cemetery plots, etc. The Hybrid Tea Rose (Rosa Indica odorata hybrida) is a group produced from crossing Teas with Hybrid Perpetuals. " La France" raised by Guillot fils, in 1867, from a Tea Rose, with a perfume peculiar to itself, a most con- stant bloomer and the sweetest of all Roses, was about the first variety sent out. In 1879, Mr. Henry Bennett (England), followed with his celebrated "pedigree" Roses, since which time there have been many notable additions to the class, which, on account of its novelty and usefulness, will in a few years very likely prove a more popular class than even the Hybrid Perpetuals. Standard Roses are pro- duced by budding any desired variety on the common Dog Brier, or Manetti stock, the strongest growers known; consequently they give to the Rose the greatest amount of nourishment. In a moist, cool atmos- phere, like that of England, Roses are grown in perfection upon standard, half-standard or dwarf stocks. In this country the dry, hot winds and scorching sun of summer, or the cold winds of winter, will destroy the vitality of the stock (particularly if on high standards), and they rarely live more than three or four years, and in no case will they produce such Roses in this country as in England or France, except in particularly favorable situations, such as a north aspect in our city gardens. We have known them in such positions to do exceedingly well, espec- ially when the stem of the plant had been wrapped around with moss or straw to pro- tect it against the summer sun. Where grown in the greatest perfection in England, stocks are selected that are the best adapted to the soil and situation in which they are to grow; these are planted about the first of November, and the highest cultivation possi- ble is given them. In the following July they are budded with the most vigorous buds that can be had from plants put out the previous year ex- presslyfor the buds. In the following November they cut the shoots back to five or six inches, and in the following spring cut back to one or two buds, which will give the flowering shoots. For exhibition purposes but one bloom is allowed on each shoot, and that will be the perfect flower ; and it is from such flowers, shown at the London exhibitions, that our American travelers give their orders, often paying enormous prices for Roses that, when grown under ordinary treatment here, never fail to disappoint. Were the English ama- 380 HENDEBSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS EOS teurs to take their " standards " from nursery rows and keep them out of the ground for nearly two months, as is the case with us, and then give them but indifferent treatment, we doubt if their favorable climate would give them a Bose that would be recognized by those who have only grown them properly. R. rugosa, a Japanese species, first sent to this country by Commodore Perry, in 1855, is one of the handsomest hardy shrubs in culti- vation. It forms a sturdy bush from four to five feet high, covered with large, dark green, pinnate, glossy foliage, and producing ter- minal clusters of ten to twenty flowers, three inches in diameter, of a bright rosy crimson color, and very fragrant. It continues in flower the whole summer, making a very at- tractive object. If it never produced a flower it would still be entitled to a prominent place on the lawn for the beauty of its foliage, which scarcely resembles that of the Bose, but is very heavy, rich, and shining, remaining on until late in Autumn. It is now well-known ; both its rosy crimson and white varieties are found in all good collections; and its large handsome fruit is most showy during the autumn months. CULTURE OF THE EOSE. "Winter Forging. — The intense interest now so generally taken in the culture of the Bose, not only for outside decoration, but for the production of Bose buds in winter, in- duces us to depart from the general rule adopted in this work, and give a full and detailed account of the methods of cultivation practiced in the vicinity of New York City, which is believed to be unequalled in any other part of the world, particularly in the methods in use for the winter forcing of the Rose. For this purpose, strong, healthy cut- tings are put in to root anytime from Septem- ber to February. We keep the sand in our cutting benches about 65° or 70°, with the temperature of the house 109 less. Bose cut- tings, under these conditions, will root in from twenty to twenty-five days, and are then potted in any good soil in two and a half inch pots, and placed in a green-house having a night temperature of about 50°, with 10° to 15° more in the daytime. The young Boses are regularly shifted into larger pots as soon as the ' ' ball, " gets filled with roots, great care being taken that the plants at no time get pot-bound. Syringing is done once a day to keep down red spider, and fumigating by burning tobacco stems to kill the Aphis or Green Fly must be done twice a week. With such attention, plants which were put in as cuttings at the season named above, by the middle of July will be from one and a half to two feet in height, with roots enough to fill a six-inch pot. Now, if intended to be grown in, pots, the shifting into larger pots should be continued whenever the ball gets filled with roots (which is usually in about five or six weeks after every shift), until the 1st of October, when they will have reached a size requiring a pot of eight or nine inches in diameter. They are then in condition for winter forcing, no further shifting being required. But if they are wanted to be plan- ted out on benches, or in solid beds of soil, the planting should be made from the pots from the 15th of May to the 15th of August. BOS There is quite a difference of opinion as to whether the Boses can be best grown in solid beds or raised benches. We believe that it really makes but little difference, as we find them grown with nearly equal success by both methods where the drainage is perfect, al- though the method mainly in use in the vicinity of New York (where, at present writ- ing, Boses are probably grown better than anywhere else in the country) is the raised bench system. The green-houses used are about twenty feet wide, and are what is known as three-quarter span : that is, three-quarters of the glass roof slopes to the south at an angle of about thirty degrees, while the other quarter slopes north at an angle of twenty degrees, giving a base space for the benches on which the Boses are to be planted, taking out the walks, of about fifteen feet. The benches may be either a level platform, or divided into four or five platforms about three feet wide, or so as to be about equal distances from the glass; the bottom of the benches may be from three to five feet from the glass, as desired. There is no necessity for bottom heat for Boses, so that it is best to have the pipes for heating run under the front and back benches of the Bose house, with none under the middle benches. The soil in which the Boses are to be grown should not be more than four to five inches deep, the boards so arranged as to allow free drainage for the water ; we use boards three inches wide. The soil is that made from sods cut three or four inches deep from any good, loamy, pasture land, well chopped up, to which is added one- fourth of well-rotted cow manure, together with about one-thirtieth of this bulk of pure broken bones and bone dust. It is perhaps best to let the sod be well rotted before being used, although, if not convenient, it will do fresh, if well chopped up. The distance for Boses such as we describe (those that have been grown in six-inch pots, and average twenty inches high) should be one foot each way, so as to get the full benefit of a crop. It is true that, if planted twice that distance, they would be thick enough before spring; but they would not fill up sufficiently until the middle of January if planted much wider than one foot. The temperature at which Boses are grown in winter is an average of 50°. to 55«. at night, with 10° to 15° higher during the day. Watering is a matter of the first importance, and requires some experi- ence to know what is the proper condition. As a guide, whenever the soil shows indica- tions of being dry on the top, a thorough watering should be given, sufficient to com- pletely saturate the soil. Such a watering will not usually be required more than once in two weeks. Syringing in clear weather should be done once a day, sufficient only to moisten the foliage. If done heavily it would keep the soil too wet. Fumigating with tobacco for the suppression of the Aphis (Green Fly) should be done twice a week, but in winter, while the flowers are being cut, strew tobacco stems on the pathways, or place them in the evaporating pans on the pipes to keep up a flavor of tobacco in the house, which acts as a preventative. The varieties grown are changing every season, and no list we can give to-day is likely to remain as the best ten years hence. The favorite Tea Boses now ROSE (STANDARD). ROSE (THE "DINSMORE"). ROBE (MME. DE WATTEVILLE ROSE (PAPA GONTIER). BTOUS t it \fc >< S'^ 11 -<'l NO. 1. — SHOWING NEED AS .IUS1 SOWS IN- SHALLOW BOXKK (2 INCHES DEEP). SEED BOXES. NO. 2. — SHOWS SEEDS. SUCH AS PANSIES, 3 OR i WEEKS AFTER SOWING. NO. 3. — SHOWS THE PLANTS TRANSPLANTED, THE SAME SHALLOW BOXES BEING USED IN EACH CASE. SEED-TESTING GREEN HOU6E. 405 AND GENEKAL HOKTICULTUEE. 405 SEC species have been introduced, but are proba- bly lost to cultivation. Some of the species contain an acrid principle, which makes them useful as medicines. Smyrna Scammony is obtained from an Egyptian species. Se'cateur. Small hand-pruning shears, for- merly used exclusively in France, but now manufactured here and in general use. They can be used much more expeditiously and to better advantage than a pruning knife for shortening strong shoots on trees, pruning roses, shrubs, etc. Se'chium. Choko. From sekiso, to fatten ; the fruit serves to fatten hogs in the mountains and inland parts of Jamaica, where the plant is much cultivated. Nat. Ord. Cucurbitacece. S. edule, the type of this genus, is an annual, a native of the West Indies, where it is extensively grown for its fruit, which is considered extremely wholesome, and is com- monly used as an article of food by all classes. The plant is climbing, supporting itself by tendrils. The fruit is about four inches long, in substance between succulent and fleshy, and is exceedingly nutritious. Besides its utility as food for man, it is much used for fattening animals. The roots are large and in substance resemble the Yam; they are also used as an article of food. Secretion. Any organic but unorganized sub- stance produced in the interior of plants. Section. A term generally applied in classifi- cation to a division in the arrangement of species, genera, or other groups. Secund. Having all the flowers, leaves, or other organs, turned to one side. Securida'ca. From securis, a hatchet ; alluding to the form of the wing at the end of the pod. Nat. Ord. Polygalacece. A genus of trailing shrubs, mostly natives of tropical America, Asia and Africa. The fruits.which are remarkable in the family, are very much like one of the two-winged carpels which make up the fruit of a Maple. The Buaze Fibre-plant, S. longipedunculata, spoken of by Dr. Livingston in his " Travels," belongs here, and has been described and figured in the botany of "Peters' Travels in Mozam- bique " by Dr. Klotzsch, under the name of Lophostylis pallida. The fibre resembles flax, and some of it brought home by Dr. Living- ston, when tested, was pronounced equal to flax, worth $250 to $300 per ton. Many of the South American species ramble to a great height over other trees, and are beautiful objects when in flower. Securi'gera. From securis, a hatchet, and gero, to bear ; referring to the shape of the pods. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. S. Coronilla, Axe-weed or Hatchet Vetch, the only species, is a native of the south of Europe. It is a hardy annual, bearing pedun- cles of nodding yellow flowers, and is of easy cultivation, only requiring to be sown in the the open border in spring. Securi'nega. From securis, a hatchet, and nega, to refuse ; in reference to the extreme hardness of the wood. Nat. Ord. Euphor- biacem. A genus of about eight species, only one of which calls for notice here. S. durissima, the Otaheite Myrtle, the " Bois dur " of the colo- nists, was introduced from Mauritius in 1793. SEE Noted principally for its exceedingly hard wood, it is seldom found outside of a botanic garden, and is readily propagated by cuttings of the half-ripened wood. Sedges. A common name for the Cyperacece, of which Carex is the principal genus. Sedum. Stonecrop. From sedere, to sit; the plants are found growing upon stones, rocks, walls and roofs of houses. Nat. Ord. Crassu- lacem. A very extensive genus of succulent, annual, hardy, herbaceous, perennial and evergreen plants, common to almost every country and climate. The hardy species of this genus are well adapted for ornamenting rock-work. Some of the species are remarkable for their variegated foliage, of which S. Sieboldi varie- gatum is one of the prettiest. It grows about one foot high, the leaves being blotched with yellow. It is hardy, and is a variety of 8. Sie- boldi, a native of Japan. There are a number of beautiful species indigenous to this coun- try. All the species are of the easiest culture, and may be grown from cuttings put in the place where they are to grow, or by division. Nearly all the species are worthy of a place in the garden. S. Telephium is the common Live-forever of our gardens, a native of Europe, but has escaped from cultivation and become naturalized in many localities. Most of the species are, from their succulent char- acter and resisting drought, well adapted for vases, or for covering rough walls or rocks. S. acre, a beautiful yellow-flowered variety, is a well-known type of the genus, and its variety S. acre variegatum is even more beau- tiful. S. albida has beautiful white flowers early in spring. Propagated by cuttings or division. Seed Boxes. See " Propagation by Seeds." Seed Drill. This is the implement used in sowing field crops of Onions, Carrots, Tur- nips, etc. It can be adjusted so as to sow all sizes of seeds. To use the seed drill success- fully, the ground must be soft and smooth. It is never safe to use it in harsh, clayey or stony soils. By its use only about one-fourth the quantity of seed is required than when sown by hand ; and the plants coming up in less numbers, they are easier thinned out. It is rarely used in small gardens. Seeds. Geographical Distribution op the Localities Where they are Grown in the United States. The subjoined article from the Beport of the Department of Agriculture at Washington for 1878 was written by us in that year, and we believe it will be found to be of sufficient interest and importance to warrant a place here. It is entitled, " Locali- ties Best Suited for Maturing Seed," and is as follows : Seed-growing is now getting to be one of the industries of the United States, as it has long been of Europe. Our great variety of latitude, soil and climate is such that in many things we are now supplying Europe with that which a few years ago we imported ; and I think it is safe to predict that in a majority of the seeds of the garden the balance of trade will ultimately be in our favor, as it is now with a majority of the seeds of the farm. I say a majority, for as seed-growing is a mat- ter of latitude, there always will be some 406 HENDEKSON'S HANDBOOK OP PLANTS SEE kinds that will attain perfection better in Europe than America, particularly such seeds as require a low temperature for perfect development. Hence, whenever a full variety of seeds is attempted to be grown in any one district, either here or in Europe, some crops will be a complete failure and many partially so, for we might as well attempt to " accli- matize " the white bear of Iceland to the jungles of Africa, or the Bengal tiger to the forests of Norway, as to perfectly develop the seed of Oats in our Southern States, or the seed of Maize in northern Europe. Still, we find these attempts are made, and will be made by inexperienced cultivators of seeds, resulting not only in ultimate failure to the grower, but also seriously injuring those to whom such undeveloped seeds are sold. When Beeds are grown in a latitude unsuited to their development, they will invariably per- petuate weak progeny. A marked case in point is the Oat, a grain requiring a low tem- perature for perfect development ; hence the superiority of the Scotch or Irish Oats over those grown in the hot and dry summers of the United States. The average weight per bushel of Scotch Oats may be given as forty- four pounds, while the average of Oats grown in the United States is about thirty-two pounds per bushel ; yet we find that Scotch Oats weighing forty-four pounds per bushel, when sown in the Middle States under favor- able conditions, deteriorate to forty pounds per bushel during the first season from the imported seed ; that product being again sown, they still further deteriorate to thirty- five or thirty-six pounds per bushel, which again being sown the third year, falls down to the normal condition of the American Oats, say thirty or thirty-two pounds per bushel. These facts suggest the query whether it would not pay our farmers to import their seed Oats in order to get this improved quality. In my opinion there is no other way to do it ; for no matter how carefully the selection of seeds is made, deterioration will take place when the crop is grown under cir- cumstances uncongenial to it. A lifetime spent in the practical study of horticulture, which is close akin to agriculture, has forced me to the conclusion that there is no such thing as acclimatization of plants. The Maize of the American continent resists all attempts to bring the crop to full maturity in the cli- mate of Great Britain, while the Oat (Avena sativa) gives comparatively abortive results when grown in our semi-tropical summers. Hundreds of instances in families of plants grown for their fruits, flowers, or seeds, could be given to show that, whenever any attempt is made to change characteristics incident to their natural origin, no perceptible advance is ever made. We all know that in attempts to acclimatize the Fig, the Olive, and the Orange tree in the open air in any locality where the thermometer falls below zero, the complete destruction of the trees would be the result, unless artificially protected. This result is marked and complete, and is universally known, even to such as have not made these matters a special study. But every cultivator of large experience knows that the same rule runs through all grades of vegetation, and that the hardening or acclimatizing of plants has not advanced, as far as the records go. SEE We remember when the Chinese Wistaria was grown only in our green-houses; now it is seen everywhere as a hardy vine ; but it was in ignorance of its hardy nature that it was ever protected, for it was equally as "hardy" the day of its first introduction as it. is to-day. The garden and farm seeds in general use in the United States, I have said, are mainly grown here, though some are better grown in other countries. I will briefly state the localities so far found to be best suited to the greatest development of the different kinds, and the sources from which seedsmen draw their supplies. I am indebted for much information on this subject to Mr. William Meggat, seed-grower, of Hartford, Conn., who has given this subject special study for the past twenty years. Asparagus is grown in New Jersey, on Long Island, and in other portions of New York, and probably other parts of the North- ern and Middle States. Beets are grown in Central New York, Pennsylvania and Connecticut. The Mangel and Sugar Beets are as yet mostly imported. Beans (Bush) are mostly grown in New York State, though Michigan, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania are beginning to grow consider- able quantities. Beans (Pole) are grown in Connecticut, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland and Delaware, and States further south. The Cabbage, one of our most important crops, gives its best development near the sea-coast. That grown on rich soils inland is never so satisfactory. Hence our market gardeners and farmers in the vicinity of New York, from experience dearly bought, prefer their Cabbage seed for an early crop to be always grown on the easterly side of Long Island, on the Atlantic coast, to that from any other source. There is considerable grown in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut and Khode Island, but such has never come to be held in any favor by our market gardeners in the vicinity of New York, who, perhaps, are as critical in such matters as anywhere in the world. But little Cabbage seed is now im- ported, though it is sold much cheaper in Europe than here ; but the crop is too impor- tant to risk any consideration of price, for we find that what are grown as the favorite varieties in Europe are not to be compared, for our purpose, with those we have ourselves originated here. Cauliflower Seed is all imported from Europe. All attempts that we have made to grow the seed here have proved nearly abort- ive. It requires a cool and rather moist climate, and even under the best conditions seeds sparingly. It has recently been tried in California, but, so far, with only partial success. Celery is another important crop of which the seed is raised almost exclusively here ; at least that in use among commercial garden- ers, many of them growing a few pounds for their own use annually at five times the cost they could buy imported seed for ; the danger being so great of getting a spurious sort that they prefer doing so rather than run the risk. Now, however, as the varieties best suited for our climate become known, it is largely grown by our regular seed-growers in New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut and New Jersey. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 407 SEE Cucumbers are now grown entirely here, except a few of the fancy sorts. The best seed is grown on the maiden soil of the prai- ries ; and though still grown to some extent in Pennsylvania, Connecticut, New Jersey and New York ; Illinois and Michigan will, in all probability, eventually be the section used to grow all species of the so-called "vine" family of vegetables. The Cabrot is grown almost exclusively in the States of New York, Rhode Island, Massa- chusetts and Connecticut. The Egg-plant as yet, is mainly grown in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York and Maryland, but, being a plant of tropical origin, the seeds, no doubt, would be better matured if grown further south. The Endive is all imported from Germany and France. The Leek is partly grown here in the East- ern and Middle States, though some is also imported. The American grown is found to have the greater vitality. Lettuce, when grown in the Atlantic States, matures best in the vicinity of our large lakes, in New York, Michigan, Wisconsin and Illinois. California, however, is better fitted for seeding Lettuce than any of the Atlantic States, and large quantities are already being grown there. Quantities are yet imported, but in this case, as in the case of Cabbage and Celery, market gardeners rarely risk imported Lettuce until first proving the variety to be correct. Melon (Nutmeg) is grown the same as the Cucumber. Melon (Water) is grown the same as the Cucumber, though rather more of it is grown in States farther south. Okba is of tropical origin, and the seed is best grown in the Southern States. Onion is one of the most important of all our vegetable crops grown from seed, and as it rapidly loses its vitality, being of little value the second year, it is now almost entirely grown here. The seed from which to grow Onions of a marketable size is raised mainly in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Michigan; while that raised from which to grow Onion sets is mostly grown in Penn- sylvania and New Jersey. California has be- gun to grow Onion seed to some extent, but as the quality of the seed greatly determines the weight of the crop, confidence is not yet fully established in the seed grown there. Parsley is nearly all imported, as the plant is not quite hardy enough to stand our northern winters, while the hot summer of our Southern States is against its maturing there. The Parsnip is grown mainly in Pennsyl- vania, New York, Connecticut and Rhode Island. Peas, a most important crop, are mainly grown in Canada and in New York State, on the immediate line of Lake Ontario. A few of the newer sorts are imported from Britain, but the great bulk used are grown as stated above. Pepper is grown mainly in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and New York, but may be grown almost anywhere. Radish is nearly all imported, or should be ; for when grown in this climate, like Oats, it degenerates very fast. SEE Salsify can be grown anywhere where Lettuce is grown, but as there is no danger of mixing varieties, it is cheaper to import it from France. Spinach is nearly all imported from Eng- land, France, or Germany, as it cannot be so profitably grown here, for the same reason that we cannot profitably grow Parsley, main- ly because our winters in the north are often such as to kill off the plants, while in the southern section the summers are too hot for maturing the seed. Tobacco is grown in Virginia, Connecticut and Kentucky in the United States, and in Cuba and other tropical latitudes. It is some- times believed to be a peculiarity of Tobacco that location changes the character of the variety. This we are inclined to doubt, and believe that the varieties grown in Cuba, Con- necticut and Virginia, are botanically distinct, and are such as have been selected as the kinds best suited to the sections in which they are grown. Tomato seeds are mostly grown in New Jersey, Connecticut, Michigan and Illinois; but they may be grown with nearly the same success in almost all the States of the Union. Turnip seeds are grown in Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Connecticut and Michigan. A little is grown in Virginia and Maryland, but it is less popular than that grown farther north ; not much is now imported. Pearl Millet is now creating a wide- spread interest. As the plant is tender, we are inclined to think the seeds will be grown exclusively in Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas and other Southern States, as a long season and high temperature are necessary to fully mature the seed, though the plant as a fodder- plant does well in any section where Maize will grow. We find that under the most favorable conditions the seed does not ripen with us in New Jersey. Hungarian Millet or Hungarian Grass is entirely different from Pearl Millet, bearing no resemblance to it. The plant is hardy. Seeds are grown in New York, New Jersey and in many of the Western States. Timothy Grass is grown largely in Illinois, Wisconsin and New York. Blue Grass is grown in Kentucky, Ohio, and other Western States. Red Top is grown in New Jersey, Ken- tucky, Ohio and Rhode Island. Obchard Grass is grown in Kentucky, Ohio and the Western States. Red Clover is grown in Michigan, New York, Ohio, etc. White Clover is grown in Wisconsin, Illi- nois and Ohio, but the greater portion of it is yet imported from Germany and France. Lucerne or Alfalfa is grown in Cali- fornia mainly. These localities are now the principal ones where seeds of commerce are grown; but every year, to some extent, these latitudes are changing, as we find that other latitudes are better suited for special kinds. For ex- ample, the long, dry seasons of California are found to mature many kinds of seeds far better than any section yet tried in the Atlan- tic States, particularly so in many of the more delicate kinds of flower seeds, that are yet nearly exclusively grown in Germany and France, and sold to us at rates of many times 408 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS SEE their weight in gold. Tens of thousands of acres are devoted to the raising of flower seeds in southern Europe, which could proba- bly be far better done in California ; but the industry must be one of slow growth, for seeds are different from nearly all other mer- cantile commodities, inasmuch as no exami- nation can certainly tell whether or not seed will germinate, or, if it does germinate, can it be known whether it is the variety specified until it matures ; hence seed merchants dare not purchase from the growers until not only their honesty, but, what is of equal impor- tance, their knowledge of the business in which they are engaged is assured. Seed-sowing. See "Propagation by Seeds." Seema'nnia. Named after Berthold Seemann, a botanist and traveler, 1825-1871. Nat. Ord. Gesneracece. S. sylvatica, the only described species, is a pubescent, stove-house, perennial plant, with a creeping rhizome, closely allied to Achi- menes and Isoloma. It bears bright scarlet flowers on solitary axillary pedicels, and requires the same treatment as Geanera. It was introduced from Peru in 1875. Segar Plant. See Cuphea platycentra. Segment. One of the divisions into which a leaf or other flat organ may be cut. Sego. A common name for Calochortus Nut- tallii. Segregate. Separated from each other. Selagina'ceae. A natural order of small shrubs, or annual or perennial herbs, with alternate leaves, and blue, white, or rarely yellow flow- ers, in terminal heads or spikes, closely allied to Verbenaceae. There are about a dozen genera, of which Globularia is Euro- pean, Gymandra from temperate or northern Asia and northwestern America, and all the others, including Selago itself, from southern Africa. Selagine'lla. A diminutive of Selago, an an- cient name of a Lycopodium, from which this genus has been separated. Nat. Ord. Lycopodiacem. A genus of Club Mosses, formerly included in the genus Lycopodium, and differing only by their two-ranked stems and the form of the fruit. Many of the species are very beau- tiful, and are favorite plants for the fern- house or Wardian case. 8. lepidophylla has the fronds curiously curled in and contracted when dry, so as to form a ball somewhat like the Hose of Jericho, but expands again when moistened. It is commonly called the Resur- rection Plant and is found from Texas to Peru. 8. serpens (syn. mutabilis) has the re- markable property of changing its color dur- ing the day; in the morning it is a bright green, but as the day advances it gradually becomes pale, and at night resumes its deeper tint. S. Kraussiana is a well- known species most useful for decorative purposes, and is now used in large quanti- ties by florists as a ground-work for elab- orate designs of cut flowers, dinner-table decoration, etc. S. uncinata (better kno\wi as S. assia) has a beautiful metallic lustre, resembling the tints of a Peacock's feathers. S. Wildenovii (syn. S. cmsia arborea) has the same beautiful shades of color as the preced- ing, but is a climbing plant of grand propor- SEM tions. These two should be grown in a hot- house. The nature of all demands a moist atmosphere and partial shade. S. atroviridis, S. Braunii, 8. caulescens, S. cuspidata, S. erythropus, S. Galeotti, S. h&matodes, S. laevi- gata, S. Martensii, S. Poulteri, S. Wallichii, and a number of other species are well- known green-house or plant-stove decorative plants, and are indispensable in every collec- tion. All the species are readily increased by cuttings, which strike root readily. Sela'go. From the Celtic sel, sight, and jach, salutary ; supposed medicinal qualities. Nat. Ord. Selaginacew. A very pretty genus of low-growing, hardy, green-house shrubs from the Cape of Good Hope, with beautiful spikes of rose-colored, yellow, violet, or white flowers. They require but little care or attention, flowering freely in early summer, and are propagated by cut- tings. Sele'nia. Probably from Selene, the moon; connection not obvious. Nat. Ord. Cruciferai. A small genus of annual herbs, natives of Texas and Arkansas. 8. aurea has the habit of Brassica, the stem three-edged, the leaves pinnatifid, and the flowers golden yellow, in terminal racemes. It is well worthy of culti- vation, both for the color and odor of the flowers, as well as for the considerable time it remains in blossom. It requires similar treatment to other hardy annuals. Selenipe'dium. South American Lady's Slip- per. From selenis, a little crescent, and pe- dion, a slipper ; in allusion to the crescentic, slipper-shaped labellum. Nat. Ord. Orchid- acece. A genus of terrestrial Orchids, differing from Cypripedium in having a three-celled and three-furrowed, or three-lobed, ovary. They have been introduced chiefly from the mountainous parts of South America, and require the same general treatment as Cypri- pediums, from which genus they have been removed by Beichenbach. Self-heal. See Prunella. Seli'num. From Selinon, the Greek name for Parsley ; applied to this genus on account of the resemblance in the leaves. Nat. Ord. Umbellifetrw. A genus of about twenty-five species of mostly hardy perennial plants, natives of the Northern Hemisphere. The species are of little horticultural interest. Semeca'rpus. Marking Nut-tree. From seme- ion, a mark, and karpos, fruit ; the black, acrid juice of the nut is used by the natives for marking cotton cloths. Nat. Ord. Anacar- A small genus of East Indian evergreen trees, the unripe fruit of which is employed in making a kind of ink. The hard shell of the fruit contains a corrosive juice, which is employed externally by the natives for sprains and rheumatic affections. When dry it forms a black varnish, much used in India, and, among other purposes, it is employed, mixed with pitch and tar, in the calking of ships. The seeds, called Malacca Beans or Marsh Nuts, are eaten, and are said to stimulate the mental powers and especially the memory. Semeia'ndra, From semeion, a mark, signal, an aner, andros, a male; in allusion to the AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 409 SEM conspicuous shape of one of the stamens. Nat. Ord. Onogracw. A small genus of slender, pubescent, green- house shrubs, inhabiting the mountains of Mexico. One of the species, 8. grandiflora, has been introduced, and forms a handsome plant, requiring culture similar to the Fuch- sia. It has large, handsome, showy, scarlet flowers, in axillary peduncles ; the leaves are ovate, or ovate-lanceolate, tapering below, and acuminate at the apex. It was intro- duced from Mexico in 1853 and is increased readily by cuttings. Se'mele. The name of the mother of Bacchus, after whom the genus was named. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. S. androgyna, the only described species, is a climbing shrub with scale -like leaves, with cladodia (branches taking the form of leaves), from the side of which the flowers are produced. It thrives in any rich soil and is increased by division of the roots. It was in- troduced from the Canary Islands in 1713. Syn. Ruscusandrogynus. Semi. This term, used in Latin compounds, signifies half ; as semi-amplexicaul, half-stem- clasping ; semi-hastate, hastate on one side only, etc. Sempervirens. Evergreen. Sempervi'vum. Houseteek. From semper vivo, to live forever ; referring to the tenacity of life of these plants. Nat. Ord. Crassulacece. A genus of shrubby, herbaceous, succulent plants, inhabiting the mountains of central and southern Europe, Madeira, Asia Minor, Abyssinia and the western Himalayas, but the most beautiful of which are natives of the Canary Islands. The tender kinds are inter- esting plants, and deserve a place in the green-house. Many of the hardy kinds are exceedingly pretty when in flower, and some become beautifully tinted in winter when fully exposed to the weather, as they always should be, for they are impatient of covering of any kind. They require very little water, except when about to flower ; and they are propagated by cuttings, which must be laid to dry for some days before they are planted. They are very suitable for rock-work, and are occasionally used for " carpet bedding." Young plants are also frequently produced by suckers from the old ones. Seneca Snake-root. See Polygala. Seneci'llis. A genus of Composite, now in- cluded under Senecio. The plant usually cul- tivated as S. glauca, is Ligularia macrophylla, which greatly resembles the former but has a different pappus. Sene'cio. Groundsel. Ragweed. Fromsenex, an old man ; the receptacle is naked and re- sembles a bald head. Nat. Ord. Composites. This is a large genus, some of which are of an ornamental character, comprising, accord- ing to Bentham and Hooker, nearly nine hun- dred species of annuals, perennials or shrubs, dispersed over the whole globe, but most numerous in temperate regions. 8. elegans, a native of the Cape of Good Hope, was in- troduced about 1700, and has long been a favorite in gardens under the name of Jacobwa. It is properly an annual, though easily kept as a perennial, and made to assume almost a shrubby appearance. There are sev- SEQ eral varieties of the species, as the double white, double purple, or double red, all of which are pretty, and useful for their long- continued flowering. S. pulcher, introduced from Uruguay in 1872, is a pretty, cobwebby, tomentose, perennial plant, having large, showy, purple flower-heads with a yellow disc. It is increased readily by root cuttings. S. vulgaris, the Groundsel of British gardens, is there, one of the most troublesome weeds. It has been introduced here by seeds in the soil of imported plants, but, fortunately, does not increase freely with us. There are sev- eral species indigenous to this country, all mere weeds. Senna. The leaves of Cassia acutifolia, C. an- gustifolia and other allied species. Senna. Bladder. The genus Colutea. Senna. Scorpion. Coronilla Emerus. Sensitive Briar. See Schrankia uncinata. Sensitive Pern. See Onoclea sensibilis. Sensitive Plant. Sensitive Plant. See Mimosa pudica. Wild. Cassia nictitans. Sepal. One of the parts or divisions of the Calyx or outermost whorl of a flower. Septa. The partitions which divide the interior parts of a fruit. Se'ptas. From septem, seven; the number seven prevailing in the fructification. Nat. Ord. Crassulacece. A genus often united with Crassula, and containing two species from the Cape of Good Hope, having the habit of some species of Saxifraga. They are herbaceous, and have tuberous roots, simple stems, opposite or verticillate leaves, and white, almost umbel- late, flowers. They are readily increased by division of the tubers and should be kept rather dry while dormant. Septum. A partition. Sequoi'a. The generic name is a supposed modification of See-qua-yah, the name of a celebrated Cherokee chief. Nat. Ord. Conir ferm. The two species that at present constitute this genus are gigantic evergreen trees, na- tives of California. 8. gigantea is the far- famed Mammoth Tree, which was discovered by an American hunting party in the Sierra Nevada, Upper California, in 1850. The so- called Mammoth Grove is in Calaveras. This was the first discovery ; and, though found in various parts, none have attained the height of those the astonished hunters first beheld. " The tallest tree of the Mammoth Grove, stripped of its bark for the purpose of exhi- bition, was 337 feet high, and at the base was 90 feet in circumference. The greatest di- mensions seem to have been attained by a tree which was found broken at a height of 300 feet, and which measured at that place eighteen feet in diameter. Considering it was one hundred and twelve feet in circumference at the base, and tapered regularly to the point where broken, it is calculated to have been, when in the fullness of its growth, four hun- dred and fifty feet high. By actual counting of the concentric rings, this tree was found to have been 1,100 years old." S. sempervirens is the Redwood of the timber trade, and ex- tends from Upper California to Nutka Sound. Itattains gigantic dimensions.being frequently 410 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS SEE more than three hundred feet high, and im- parts to the woods a peculiar character ; as Douglas said, ' ' Something that plainly shows we are not in Europe." This species fur- nishes most of the lumber used in house- building, cabinet work, and for various other work in which pine is employed east of the Rocky Mountains. These trees have been introduced into our nurseries, and are found to be hardy around New York, though no such extraordinary dimensions are ever likely to be obtained as in their native habitat. Syn. Wellingtonia. Sera'pias. Name derived from the Egyptian God, Serapis. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A small genus of hardy terrestrial Orchids, natives of the Mediterranean region. There are five or six species, all very interesting plants, and generally included in all collec- tions of hardy Orchids. Sereno'a. Saw Palmetto. Named in honor of Sereno Watson, of Cambridge, Mass., a distin- guished botanist. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. S. serrulata, the only species, is a dwarf, unarmed tufted Palm, a native of the Southern States, and closely allied to Sabal. It is a very handsome species either for the green- house or for summer decoration. Syn. Sabal serrulata. Serial or Seriate. Disposed in rows or series. Sericeus. Silky ; covered with close, soft, straight pubescence. Serico'graphis. From serikos, silk, and grapho, to write. Nat. Ord. Acanthacece. This genus consists of a few species of under-shrubs and herbaceous evergreens. S. Ghiesbreghtiana is a handsome winter-flower- ing plant, requiring the same treatment as the Ruellia. This genus is now included un- der Jacobinia by some authors. Seri'nga. A popular name for the Philadelphus or Mock Orange. Seri'ngia. Named in honor of N. C. Seringe, Director of the Botanical Garden at Lyons, 1776-1858. Nat. Ord. Sterculiacece. S. platyphylla, the only described species, is an interesting, green-house, evergreen shrub, with white flowers in dense terminal cymes. The branches are loosely whitish or rusty tomentose. It was introduced from Australia in 1822, and is propagated by cuttings of the young wood. Syn. Lasiopetalum arborescens. Seri'ssa. A name altered from the old Greek Seris, used by Dioscorides. Nat. Ord. Rubia- cew. 8. foztida, the only species, is a pretty, green- house, branched shrub, with white axillary or terminal flowers. There is a variety with double flowers (a rare occurrence in this or- der), and another with gold-margined leaves. Propagated by cuttings. A native of India, China, Japan, etc. ; sometimes cultivated un- der the name of Lycium Japonicum. Serotinus. Comparatively late. Serpent's Beard. Ophiopogon Japonicus. Serpent Withe. A common name for Aristo- lochia odoratissima. Serradilla. The common name for Ornithopus sativus, which see. Serrate. Having sharp, straight-edged teeth, pointing to the apex. When these teeth are SES themselves serrate, they are bi-serrate or duplicatoserrate. Serra'tula. Saw-wort. From serrula, a little saw ; alluding to the serrated foliage. Nat. Ord. Composite. A large genus of hardy, perennial herbs, na- tives of Europe, North Africa and Asia, all more or less of a Thistle-like aspect and not suitable for general culture. Serrulate. Serrate, with very small or fine teeth. Serru'ria. Named in honor of Dr. James Serru- rier, Professor of Botany at Utrecht. Nat. Ord. Proteacece. A genus of desirable, densely leafy shrubs peculiar to South Africa. Of this showy and desirable genus over fifty species have been described, nearly half of which are in cultiva- tion. They are closely allied to Protea and require the same general treatment. Service Berry. See Amelanchier. Service Tree. See Pyrus. Se'samum. Bene Plant. From Sesamon, the old Greek name used by Hippocrates. Nat. Ord. Pedaliacem. S. orientate, a native of the East Indies, is the Bene Plant of our gardens and of domestic medicine, being used with excellent results in severe cases of dysentery. It is now grown for that purpose in the vicinity of New York and other large cities. A dozen leaves put in a tumbler of water quickly give out a mucilagi- nous, starch-like substance, in which condi- tion it can be freely used. Cultivation, the same as for other tender annuals ; that is, by sowing in March in a hot-bed, if wanted early, or in the open border in May for general crop. It is a tender annual, with flowers of a whitish color, shaped somewhat like those of the Foxglove, and produced in loose terminal spikes. In the Southern States and in Africa this species was, and is yet to some extent, considerably grown for the oil, called Gingelly Oil, the seed yields, which oil will keep many years without acquiring any rancid taste or smell. When first made it is quite heating and is used as a stimulant ; but, after two or three years, it becomes quite mild, and is used as a salad oil. The seeds are also used by the negroes for food, which they prepare in various ways. In Japan the oil is used as we use butter in cooking. Sesba'nia. From sesban, the Arabic name of S. JEgyptiaca. Nat. Ord. Leguminosw. A small genus of interesting tropical and sub-tropical annuals, biennials and shrubs, producing fine flowers, mostly yellow, the entire summer. A. macrocarpa, a native of Louisiana, is one of the most showy species, and useful for very dry, warm situations. Se'seli. Meadow Saxifrage. The Greek name of an umbelliferous plant. Nat. Ord. Umbel- liferoe. A genus of about forty species, nearly all natives of the north temperate regions. S. gummiferum, the only species worthy of atten- tion, is a handsome silvery plant with elegantly divided leaves of a peculiarly pleasing glaucous or almost silvery tone. It is a biennial, and thrives best on a dry, sunny bank, or raised border. It was introduced to cultivation from Tauria in 1804, and is readily increased by seeds. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 411 SES Sesqui. A prefix, which, used in Latin com- pounds, signifies one and a half, as Sesqui- pedalis, one and a half feet. Sessile. Sitting close upon the body that sup- ports it without any sensible stalk. Sesu'vium. A small genus of FicoideaB, inter- esting principally as containing the Samphire or Seaside Purslane of the West Indies (S. Portulacastrum), which, with S. repens, both found on the sea-shores, are edible and are used as pot herbs, though they have rather a salt taste. One or two of the species are in cultivation. Seta. A bristle of any kind ; a bristle tipped with a gland ; a slender prickle. Seta'ria. Bristly Fox-tail Grass. From seta, a bristle ; the involucrum is bristly. Nat. Ord. GraminacecB. An extensive genus of grasses, mostly annu- als and of but little interest. Setigerous. Bearing bristles. Setose. Bristly ; covered with stiff hairs. Seville Orange or Bitter Orange. Citrus vul- garis. Seyme'ria. Named for Henry Seymer, an Eng- lish naturalist. Nat. Ord. ScrophulariacecB. A genus of annual or perennial herbs, natives principally of northwest America. 8. pec- tinata and S. tenuifolia, both native annual species, are in cultivation, and are very pretty plants when in flower. Shad-Bush. See Amelanchier. Shaddock. Citrus decumana. Shading. In this latitude, where the sun's rays are so powerful, shading is imperative for nearly all plants grown under glass dur- ing the hot and often dry and sultry summer months. More particularly is this the case with stove and green-house plants, very few of which can be successfully grown under glass without more or less shade. As a per- manent shading has the effect of weakening the plants, because they do not get sufficient light in dull weather, a system of fixing thin blinds to rollers which may be drawn up in dull weather is, perhaps, the best method. A great variety of material is procurable for this purpose, and, for a small " lean-to " or span-roofed house, a screen of light canvas, muslin, or "protecting cloth" (which see), arranged on the outside, so that it may be wound up on a roller when not wanted, will answer, and if it be desired to keep the house as cool as possible, this should be so con- trived that there will be a space of six inches or so between that and the glass. But upon a large house, or one with a curvilinear roof, this is not so manageable, and we find the best method is to spatter the glass outside with a preparation of naphtha and white lead made so thin as to resemble skimmed milk. This can be put on by a syringe at a cost of not over twenty-five cents for every thousand square feet of glass. When first done it should be spattered very thinly, merely to break the strong glare of the sun, just about thick enough to cover half the surface. As the season advances, the spattering should be repeated to increase the shade. Roses, Bouvardias, Smilax, Poinsettias, Primulas, etc., however, do not require more of the ma- terial at any time than just to cover the glass. SHA Frames, small green-house, etc., are easily shaded by means of a lattice made of common laths. Strips of inch stuff, an inch and a half or two inches wide, are used for the sides of the lattice, and laths are nailed across as far apart as their own width. One lath being nailed on, another is laid down to mark the distance, the third one put down and nailed, and the second lath is moved along to mark the distance for the fourth, and so on. With a screen of this kind there is abundant light, but the sun does not shine long at a time on one spot, and the plants have a constantly changing sun and shade. This lath screen may be used for shading plants in the open ground, if supported at a proper height above them. In a propagating house, where it is necessary, as it often is, to shade cuttings, a lattice laid upon the outside of the glass an- swers a good purpose. The laths are some- times tied together with strong twine, the cord answering the place of slats, and serv- ing as a warp with which the laths are woven ; the advantage of a screen of this kind being that it can be rolled up. Another and excel- lent screen to shade is to make frames three by six feet of the ' ' Protecting Cloth " already alluded to. Plants kept in windows during summer months will, if in a sunny exposure, require some kind of a shade, and, if the one provided to keep the sun from the room shuts out too much light, or excludes air as well as sun, something must be provided which will give protection during the heat of the day, and still allow sufficient light and an abund- ant circulation of air. Any one with ingenu- ity can arrange a screen of white cotton cloth to answer the purpose. Shallot. Allium Ascalonicum. The Shallot or Eschalot is a native of Palestine, especially near the once famous city of Ascalon, whence its specific name. It was first introduced into England in 1548, and has ever since been cultivated to a considerable extent, and used in the same manner as the Onion. It is highly esteemed for pickles. Several varieties have been noticed; the only difference, however, seems to be in the size, which may properly be attributed to the cultivation, as it is largely upon this that the size depends. Shallots are grown to a considerable extent in the vicinity of New York. The bulbs are planted one foot between the lines and six inches between the plants, in October, and are marketed in the green state the following May. From the early maturing of the crop, they are always very profitable, though grown to a much less extent than Onions. Increased only by division. Shamrock. The national flower or symbol of Ireland. So accepted because, according to tradition, St. Patrick used it to illustrate his teaching of the doctrine of the Trinity to the natives. Like the Scotch Thistle, antiqua- rians are in doubt as to the true Shamrock. Many think it is the Trifolium repens or com- mon White Clover ; others that it is the small yellow Clover, Trifolium minus; while num- bers declare, and with much probability, that it is not a clover at all, but the common Wood Sorrel, Oxalis Acetosella. "English writers mention it as having been used as food in Ireland after the devastation caused by the wars of the sixteenth century. By persons 412 HENDEBSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS SHA imperfectly acquainted with the Irish lan- guage, the word shamsog might easily be con- founded with the name Shamrock, if they judged by the eye, as S and K have nearly the same form in the Irish alphabet. Clearly, then, Shamrock, or, to give it its true orthog- raphy, Seamarog (Trifolium minus) could never have been used for Wood Sorrel, except through ignorance, as Seamar is the generic name of all the species of Trifolium, and could never have been applied to so utterly different a plant as Oxalis acetosella." Others, however, argue that in the days of St. Patrick Ireland was very thickly wooded, and that as his meetings would, in all probability, be held in their shelter, where the Oxalis is so very plentiful as to be in many places the only covering, it would be most readily used by St. Patrick to illustrate his subject. Mr. Mackay, in " Flora Hibernica," says, " that old authors said it was a sour, indigenous plant, showing itself on St. Patrick's day, and that it was eaten." He therefore concludes that it was not Trifolium repens but undoubtedly Oxalis Acetosella. We understand that nowa- days any species of Clover with a tripartite leaf is used indiscriminately, Trifolium fili- forme and Medicago lupulina being worn with other species in Dublin on St. Patrick's day. Shamrock Pea. A name given to Parochetus communis. Sheath. A part which is rolled round a stem or other body, as the lower part of the leaf that surrounds the stem. Sheep Berry. Viburnum Lentago. Sheep Laurel. See Kalmia angustifolia. Sheep's Scabious. See Jasione. Sheep's Sorrel. Rumex acetosella. Sheffe'ldia repens, is a little New Zealand creeping plant of the Nat. Ord. Primulacem, with small, slender stems and small leaves. It is perfectly hardy, producing tiny white flowers in summer, and is an interesting plant for the rock- work or rock-garden. Shell-bark Hickory. See Carya. SheB-Flower. See Chelone. Shell-Flower. Mexican. Tigridia conchiflora. Shephe'rdia. Named after the late John Shep- herd, Curator of the Botanic Garden of Liver- pool. Nat. Ord. Elceagnacem. A small genus of native shrubs or low- growing trees common on the banks of the Missouri Biver. They are favorite plants for shrubbery or lawn decoration, on account of their blooming very early in spring and their fine appearance in autumn, when their branches are thickly clad with rich clusters of crimson berries, resembling somewhat, in color and size, the common red Currant. They are popularly known as the Buffalo- berry, Babbit-berry, and sometimes as Beef- suet trees. Syn. Elozagnus. Shepherd's Club, or Shepherd's Flannel. Pop- ular names for Verbascum Thapsus. Shepherd's Knot. Tormentilla officinalis. Shepherd's Purse. Capsella Bursa-pastoris, one of our most common weeds. Introduced from Europe. Shield Fern. See Aspidium Shield Flower. The popular name for Aspi- distra. SHB Shield Shaped. Bound or oval and flat, with stalk attached to the lower surface. Shin-leaf. The popular name of Pyrola elliptica. Shittim Wood. Supposed to be the timber of Acacia nilotica. Shoeblack Plant or Shoe Tree. A common name for Hibiscus rosa-sinensis. Shooting Star. A western name for the Dode- catheon Meadia, which see. Shoots. Blind. A name given to such shoots as do not flower, but which are often utilized for cuttings, as in Boses, Carnations, etc. Sho'rtia. A genus placed by Professor Asa Gray in the sub-order Galacinece, of the Nat. Ord. Diapensiacew. It differs very slightly botanically from Galax. S. galacifolia is in- teresting, not only as being one of our rarest native plants, but on account of Professor Gray's persistent endeavors to re-discover it. When he was in Europe in 1839, while exam- ining the herbarium of the elder Michaux, collected in 1788 and preserved in the Museum at Paris, he found an unnamed specimen of a plant with the habit of Pyrola and the foliage of Galax, of which only the leaves and a single fruit were preserved, and which had been collected, the label said, in the "Hautes mon- tagnes de Carolinie." Two years later, having in vain searched for Michaux's plant, he ven- tured to describe it upon the strength of the scanty material already mentioned, dedicat- ing it to Dr. C. W. Short, the author of a cat- alogue of the plants of Kentucky. Attention having thus been drawn to it, diligent search was made by eager botanists through all the mountainous region to which Michaux's label assigned the plant, but without success, until in May, 1877, it was re-discovered by Mr. G. Hyams on the banks of the Catawba Biver, near the town of Marion, at a considerable distance from the original station. These new specimens, gathered when the plant was in flower, confirmed at once Professor Gray's original ideas of the proper relationship of his genus, and enabled him to complete its characters and remodel the family to which it belonged. Its nearest allies are Galax aphylla, a beautiful evergreen herb with tall, erect racemes of pure white flowers, found on the southern slopes of the western Alleghanies, and the beautiful little Pixidanthera barbulata, of the New Jersey pine-barrens. Showy Orchis. See Orchis. Shrub. A woody plant which does not form a true trunk like a tree, but has several stems rising from the roots. Shrubberies. This term is usually applied to a plantation of shrubs, which are generally arranged and planted with a view to produc- ing an effect throughout the summer, but, by making a suitable selection and arranging with judgment, they may be rendered attract- ive, either in the flower or foliage, through- out the whole year. As a boundary or screen, dividing cultivated from wild grounds, or as a background for a mixed border in a flower garden, evergreen shrubs are unsur- passed. A large number of subjects, both evergreen and deciduous, may be planted in a mixed shrubbery, though forest-trees should not be admitted, or, if they are, merely with a view to their subsequent removal. The SHORTIA GALACIFOLIA. BELAGINELLA LEPIDOPHYLLA (RESURRECTION PLANT). KENECIO PCLCHER. 8ENECIO MACROGLOKSUS (GERMAN IVY). SONERILA. SKIMMIA JAPONICA, SILENT. PESDULA VARIEGATA. SITJM LATIFOLITJM. SOLANUM ROBUSTUM. SOLANUM MARGINATUM. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 413 SHR front line should be restricted to those plants that habitually remain compact and do not grow tall, while the back part may be filled with such specimens as are of an oppo- site description. Overcrowding is especially to be avoided, but in planting a new shrub- bery a large number of duplicates may be inserted, which should be transplanted in a year or two, as the permanent specimens re- quire additional space. Constant attention, by judicious pruning, is necessary to prevent strong-growing plants from overgrowing and crowding their neighbors. Summer pruning is of great assistance here ; all those shrubs that flower on the wood made the previous year, such as Forsythias, Spiraeas, Deutzias, Weigelias, etc., ought to be pruned back im- mediately after flowering; the young wood thus produced will develop for the succeeding year, and the plant will not be materially en- larged in comparison with an unpruned speci- men. Many ornamental evergreen shrubs, grown principally for their foliage, may be pruned more or less extensively, according to the position they occupy or the purpose for which they are grown. Pruning should always be done, where practicable, with a knife, or pruning shears, thus leaving the subject in good shape without cutting the foliage or injuring the branches that are left. Clipping with shears is inadmissible, except where the shrubs are planted for a hedge, a purpose for which Altheas, Privet, LUacs, Osage, Orange, etc., are often employed. Shrubby Trefoil. See Ptelea. Siberian Crab. See Pyrus prunifolia. Siberian Pea-Tree. See Caragana. Sibtho'rpia. Named after Dr. Humphrey Sib- thorp, formerly Professor of Botany at Oxford. Nat. Ord. Scrophulariacece. A genus of trailing, herbaceous plants, na- tives of South America, Europe and Africa. A few of the species are under cultivation. S. Europaea is a very pretty low-growing spe- cies, with yellow flowers and dark green foliage. It is a good plant for the shady bor- der or for pot culture. The pot being sus- pended, it will droop all around it to a distance of three feet. There is a beautiful variety with variegated foliage, but it is more diffi- cult to grow. Disandra prostrata is placed under this genus by some botanists, under the name of S. peregrina. Sickle-pod. The popular name of Arabia Cana- densis. Sickle-wort. A common name for Prunella vulgaris. Si'cyos. Star Cucumber. An old Greek name for the Cucumber. Nat. Ord. Cucurbitacece. A genus of nearly a dozen half-hardy, climb- ing, annual herbs, natives of the warmer parts of America, the Pacific Islands and Australia. S. angulata, commonly called Wild Cucumber, is common on river banks, and is a weed in waste places and damp yards. Si'da. Indian Mallow. An extensive genus of Malvacece, comprising herbs and shrubs, na- tives of the tropical and sub-tropical zones both of the Eastern and Western Hemi- spheres. Many of the species are used medici- nally, and the bark of several contains an abundance of fibrous tissue, available for cordage, etc. The Chinese cultivate S. tilim- SIL folia for the sake of its fibre, which they pre- fer to hemp. Many species, formerly included here, are now classed under Abutilon, which see. Sida'lcea. From Sida and Alkea, an ancient Greek name for some Malva ; alluding to the appearance and alliances of the plants. Nat. Ord. Malvacece. A genus of hardy, mostly perennial herbs, with the habit of Malva or AUhea, natives of western North America. They are coarse- growing plants, and only 8. malvoeflora, 8. Oregana and S. acerifolia are in cultivation. Sideri'tis. Iron-wort. From sideros, iron; so named on account of a supposed property of healing flesh wounds inflicted by iron. Nat. Ord. Labiatce. A genus of nearly fifty species of hardy or half-hardy, often woolly, herbs or shrubs, na- tives of the Mediterranean region and the Canary Islands. Many of the species are use- ful for ornamenting the rock-garden or rock- work. Sidero'xylon. From sideros, iron, and xylon, wood ; alluding to the very hard wood fur- nished by the various species. Nat. Ord. Sa- potacece. A genus of nearly sixty species of stove or green-house shrubs, natives of Africa, Aus- tralia and New Zealand. The fruits of 8. dulcificum have a very sweet taste, and are known, with others in western Africa, under the name of Miraculous Berry. The various species introduced are of little horticultural value. Side-saddle Flower. See Sarracenia. Sieve'rsia. Named after M. Sievers, a Russian botanical collector. Nat. Ord. Rosacece. A small genus of hardy, herbaceous peren- nials, closely allied to Geum. The species from Austria and Switzerland have large yel- low, solitary flowers and are quite handsome. They are propagated by division. Sigmoid. Somewhat resembling in form the letter S. Sil'ene. Catchfly. From sialon, saliva; in al- lusion to the viscid moisture on the stalks of many of the species, by which the smaller kinds of flies are entrapped; and hence the common name of the genus, Catchfly. Nat. Ord. Caryophyllacem. A very large genus, mostly natives of south- ern Europe, North Africa and extra tropical Asia, containing many plants of much beauty. It numbers above a hundred and fifty species, which are chiefly hardy, herbaceous plants, or annuals of the same character. The latter, however, contain many which are mere weeds. Red, of various shades, is the prevailing color of the flowers, though both white and purple are found in it. S. viscosa is a popular bi- ennial, frequently grown for the backs of large borders, and the old Lobel's Catchfly (8. ar- maria) is still occasionally met with. S. Schafta combines every good quality to be desired in border flowers, being hardy, herba- ceous, trailing closely to the ground, and bearing a profusion of crimson red flowers. It is easy to grow either as a pot plant or in the open ground, and will, doubtless, occupy a prominent place when better known. The shrubby species of this genus are easily in- creased by cuttings ; and, though hardy enough 114 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS SIL to resist almost any amount of frost, they are sometimes injured by excessive wet, and for this reason a few should be potted and kept in a cold frame. Such of the annuals as are worth cultivating need only to be sown where they are to flower. Several species are com- mon throughout the United States, but they are of less importance than those from south- ern Europe and Africa. First introduced in 1640. Siliqua. The long tapering pod of Cruciferce. Silk Cotton-tree. See Bombax. Silk Oak. See Grevillea. Silk Tree. Levant. Acacia Julibrissin, a native of the Silk-Vine. Periploca grmca. Silk "Weed. Asclepias cornuti. Si'lphium. Bosin Plant, Rosin Weed, Compass Plant. From silphion, the Greek name applied to an Asafcetida plant. Nat. Ord. Compositce. A small genus of strong-growing.herbaceous, perennial plants, common in the Western and Southern States. 8. laciniatum is said to pre- sent its leaves exactly north and south, which gives it the name of Compass Plant. The leaves and stems of some of the species exude a large amount of rosin, whence the common name Rosin Weed. All the species are of far more interest to the botanist than the florist. Silver Balm. See Melissa. Silver Bell Tree. See Halesia. Silver Berry. Missouri. The fruit of Shep- herdia argentea. Silver Bush. Anthyllis Barba-Jovis. Silver Fern. See Cheilanthes. Silver Fir. nata. The popular name for Abies pecti- Silver Tree. Cape. Leucadendron argenteum. Silver Weed. Potentilla anserina. See also Im- patiens. Sily'bum. Milk Thistle. An old Greek name applied by Dioscorides to some Thistle-like plants. Nat. Ord. Composite. 8. Marianum, the only species, is a glabrous, erect, biennial herb, included by some botan- ists under Carduus. "The specific name, Marianum, was given to this plant to preserve the legend that the white stain on the leaves was caused by the falling on the plant of a drop of the Virgin Mary's milk," — Lindley. It was formerly cultivated, the young leaves being used as a spring salad, the root boiled as a pot- herb, and the heads treated like the heads of the Artichoke. It grows wild in waste places in many parts of Britain, and still retains its place in old-fashioned gardens. See Carduus and Scotch Thistle. Sima'ba. The native name in Guiana of one of the species. Nat. Ord. SimarubaceoB. A genus of trees and shrubs, natives of tropical America. Three species have been in- troduced, but 8. Cedron, the Cedron Tree, is probably the only species in cultivation. It is a small tree, a native of New Grenada, and bears large panicles of flowers, often three to four feet long, succeeded by fruit about the size of a swan's egg. It is remarkable for the febrifugal properties of its seeds, which have also been from time immemorial reputed, in its native place, as a remedy for snake bites. SIP Every part of the plant, but especially its seed, is intensely bitter. Simaro'uba. Sometimes spelled Simaruba. The Carib name of 8. amara. Nat. Ord. Simaru- bacea. A small genus of evergreen trees, natives of eastern and tropical America. Probably the only cultivated species is 8. amara (the Mountain Damson), which yields the drug known as Simaruba Bark, which is, strictly speaking, the rind of the root, and is em- ployed as a bitter tonic in diarrhoea and ' dysentery. Simaruba'ceae. A natural order of trees or shrubs, remarkable for the bitter taste of their bark. They are natives of hot countries, a very few only being found without the tropics. Thirty genera are referred to this order, which is closely allied to Rutacece. Quassia, Ailantus, Brucea and Cneorum are good examples. Simmo'ndsia. Named in memory of T. W. Sim- monds, a botanist and explorer, 1805. Nat. Ord. Euphorbiacem. S. Califomica, the only described species, is a small, hardy, evergreen, much branched shrub from California. It is seldom found in cultivation. Syn. Bocchia. Simple. Consisting of not more than one distinct part. Sina'pis. Mustard. From the Celtic nap, a designation applied to all plants resembling the Cabbage or Turnip. Nat. Ord. Crueifera. A genus of hardy, yellow-flowered annuals. 8. nigra is the common Black Mustard, and S. alba the White Mustard of commerce, both natives of Europe and most common on the shores of the Mediterranean. The former yields a greater portion of the Mustard in general use. Both species are extensively grown in England as field crops, and also in many other parts of Europe. These species are common in fields and waste places in this country, having escaped from the garden and become naturalized. There are several other species, but they are all of the same general character. S. nigra, which grows ten or twelve feet high in Palestine, is regarded by some as the " Mustard of Scrip- ture " in preference to Salvadora. Sinni'ngia. Named in honor of William Sinning, Gardener to the University of Bonn on the Rhine. A genus of some sixteen species of very pretty dwarf, pubescent herbs, natives of Brazil, and closely allied to Gloxinia, which genus they closely resemble, and require similar treatment for their culture. Sinistrorse. Turned or directed to the left. Sinuate. Strongly wavy; with the margin alternately bowed inward and outward. Sinus. A recess or bay ; the re-entering angles between two lobes or projections. Siphoca'mpylos. From siphon, a tube, and kampylos, curved ; in allusion to the curved shape of the flower. Nat. Ord. Campanula- cexB. An extensive genus of handsome, low-grow- ing, evergreen shrubs, natives of South America. The flowers are mostly tubular, scarlet or yellow, solitary on axillary stalks or in dense racemes or clusters. Several of the species are cultivated for their showy AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 415 SIP flowers, among which is S. bicolor (syn. Lo- belia laxiflora angustifolia), a well-known species. They are propagated by cuttings. Introduced in 1842. Sipho'nia. From siphon, a tube or pipe ; the use made of the exudation, which constitutes India Rubber. Nat. Ord. Euphorbiacece. S. Brasilienis, an evergreen tree indige- nous to tropical South America, is the most remarkable species of the genus. It is to this tree that we are indebted for the greater part of our supply of Caoutchouc or India Rubber. It is a native of French Guiana, and attains a height of seventy-five feet, rarely a hundred. The mode in which the rubber is obtained by the natives, is by making incis- ions through the bark of the lower part of the trunk of the tree, from which the sap, which is a fluid rosin, issues in great abundance, ap- pearing of a milky whiteness as it flows into the vessel prepared to receive it. On expos- ure to the air, this milky juice gradually thickens into a soft, reddish, elastic rosin. This substance is poured into a mould, in small quantities at first, and is then exposed to a dense smoke, produced by the burning of nuts from several of the Palms, until it is sufficiently hard to bear another coat, when the process is repeated, until the mass is of a convenient size to handle for shipment. There are several other species of this genus that yield large quantities of rubber, com- mon from Central America to Brazil. The first discovery of this valuable tree and its uses was made by M. de la Condamine in 1736, but it is only within the last fifty years that it has become an important article of commerce. Ficus elastica also produces the India Rubber of commerce, and is the best known of the rubber-producing trees, in con- sequence of being largely grown under glass for ornamental purposes (syn. Hevea). Sisy'mbrium. Hedge Mustard. Nat. Ord. Cm- ciferoB. A genus of hardy annual or biennial herbs of but little interest. It comprises some eighty species, natives chiefly of the temper- ate and cold regions of the Northern Hemi- sphere. S. millefolium, a perennial species, has elegant feathery foliage of a whitish color, and small yellow flowers. It grows well in any light soil. Sisyri'nchium. Rush Lily, Satin Flower. Blue- eyed Grass. From sys, a pig, and rynchos, a snout ; so called on account of the fondness that swine have for the roots. Nat. Ord. Iridacece. A large genus of hardy, or half-hardy, per- ennial plants with fibrous roots; natives of tropical and North America. S. grandiflorum and its variety, S. g. album, is a beautiful per- ennial species that flowers early in spring, and is the only one worthy of general culture. The foliage is narrow and grass-like ; the flowers, which are produced on slender stems six to twelve inches high, are bell-shaped and drooping, of a rich, deep purple in the typi- cal plant, and of a pure, transparent white- ness in the variety. They form charming groups in the rock-garden in light, peaty or sandy soil in warm positions. They may be increased by careful division in fall, and are the better of some protection during winter. S. Bermudiana or Blue-eyed Grass, our na- SKI tive species, is very common in damp, cool meadows throughout the United States. The flowers are small, of a delicate blue, turning to purplish, and the plant, when out of flower, resembles a tuft of low-growing, coarse grass. Sitolo'bium. A small genus of Ferns now in- cluded under Dicksonia, by many authorities. Si'um. Skirret. From the Celtic Siw, water, the habitat of most of the species. Nat. Ord. Umbelliferce. S. sisarum, the only useful and cultivated species, is a handsome perennial plant, indig- enous to China and Japan, is popularly known as Skirret, and to some extent used as a vege- table. The roots, which are the parts used, are composed of several prongs, about the thickness of a finger, joined together at the top ; these are boiled and afterwards served in the same way as those of Salsify and Scor- zonera. The plants are best grown from seed, and require a wet soil to succeed well. This species is placed by Hooker and Ben- tham under Pimpinella, but is best known as above. Ski'mmia. From Skimmi, a Japanese word signifying a hurtful fruit. Nat. Ord. Rutacem. A genus of half-hardy, evergreen shrubs, natives of Japan and northern India. The species known as S. Japonica is a pretty, dwarf-growing, holly-like shrub, with dark, shining, evergreen, entire, flat leaves, and clusters of bright red berries, which give the plant a very handsome appearance. Dr. Masters ("Gardener's Chronicle," April, 1889), after studying up the various Skimmias grown in English gardens, finds that much confu- sion has existed among botanists and culti- vators about these plants, and that the plant universally known as S. Japonica is not that species at all, and that it is not even known to belong to Japan, but that the plant de- scribed as S. oblata is the true S. Japonica of Thunberg and of Siebold and Zuccarini, or rather the female of that species, in which male and female flowers are separated on dif- ferent individuals. The 8. Japonica of gar- dens, so considered by Lindley, with whom all this confusion originated, and afterward by Sir W. Hooker, when it was first intro- duced by Fortune from China, in 1849, Dr. Masters now first properly distinguishes under the new name of S. Fortunei. This is the common species in cultivation. Dr. Masters calls attention to the interesting facts that this plant is not represented by wild specimens in herbaria, and that its Chi- nese origin rests upon Fortune's own state- ments with regard to it, which he says have been generally overlooked, although pub- lished in the "Gardener's Chronicle" for 1852, p. 739, from which it appears that Fortune found this plant in a nursery-garden at Shanghai, to which he was told it had been brought from a high mountain in the interior called " Nang Shang." It is certainly both interesting and curious that nothing more definite is known of the origin of a plant which has become one of the most popular and universally used evergreen shrubs of English gardens. S. Foremani is a new form just introduced (1889) by the raiser for whom it is named. It is de- rived from S. oblata, fertilized with the pollen of 8. fragrans. It is free-growing, and when covered with its bright scarlet fruits is 416 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS SKI exceedingly ornamental. They are valuable hardy shrubs south of Washington. Skirret. See Slum. Skoke Berry. A local name for Phytolacca de- candra. Skullcap. See Scutellaria. Skunk Cabbage. See Symplocarpus fartidua. Sleep-at-noon. See Tragopogon pratensis. Slender Grass. See Leptochloa. Slipperwort. See Calceolaria. Sloe. A common name for Primus spinosa. Slugs. See Insects. Smaragdinus. Grass green. Smart Weed. See Polygonum. Smeathma'nnia. In honor of Smeathman, a naturalist, who traveled in Africa, and col- lected many botanical specimens. Nat. Ord. Passijloracem. A small genus of white- flowered green-house evergreen shrubs from Sierra Leone. Like all this natural order, the flowers are quite as remarkable for singularity of form as for beauty. This genus, unlike any others of the order, are upright shrubs instead of twining plants. They require a warm house, and to oe well cut back to force into flower. Propa- gated by cuttings. Introduced in 1823. Smilaci'na. False Solomon's Seal. From smile, a scraper ; alluding to the roughness of the stems. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. A small genus of hardy herbaceous plants, with terminal racemes of small white flowers. They are common in moist woods in the North- ern and Western States. S. bifolia (syn. Maianthemum bifoliwm) is a beautiful little plant, about six inches high, and is popularly known in the New England States as Wild Lily of the Valley. All the species are worthy a place in the garden for their long bunches of beautiful, light-red, purple-speckled berries, which remain until late in autumn. Propa- gated from seed or root division. Syn. Sigil- laria, Medora, etc. Smi'lax. Green Brier, Cat Brier. From smile, a scraper ; the stems are rough from prickles. Nat. Ord. Liliacew. The many species of this genus are coarse- growing, troublesome, hardy climbers, justly regarded as pests by farmers and gardeners. The common Cat Brier of our hedgerows and woods, a prominent member of this family, has its reputation too well established to need further description. The genus includes some species celebrated for their medicinal proper- ties. 8. officinalis, a native of Columbia, Guatemala and Lima, furnishes the drug known as Sarsaparilla ; besides this, there are several other species, the roots of which are sold as Sarsaparilla. 8. medica is the Mexican Sarsaparilla and S. papyracea is the Brazilian Sarsaparilla. S. China has esculent roots, which are eaten by the Chinese and also used in the manufacture of domestic beer. The roots of several species of the Aralia are used in the adulteration of Sarsaparilla. ' ' Smilax, " popularly known as such, is the plant so ex- tensively grown for festooning, and is des- cribed under its proper name, Myrsiphyllum, which see. Smoke Tree. See Rhus Cotinus. SOF Smut. A Fungus which grows among the tissues of the stamens, ovaries, and leaves of various plants, but which especially infests Corn, Wheat, Barley, Oats and other plants of the same natural order. Owing to the Fungi developing and growing within the host- plants, no remedies can be employed that will not kill the plant also; the affected plant should therefore be rooted up and burned to prevent the spread of the disease. Snail Flower. See Phaseolus Caracalla. Snail Plant. Medicago scutellata and M. helix, the pods of which are called Snails from their resemblance to those mollusks. Snake Cucumber. See Trichosanthes. Snake Root. Black. A common name for Actasa racemosa and Sanicula racemosa. Button. Various species of Liatris. Canadian. Asarum Canadense. Seneca. Polygala Senega. Snake Root. Virginian. Aristolochia serpen' taria. Snake Root. White. See Eupatorium agera- toides. Snake's-beard. The genus Ophiopogon. Snake's-head. Fritillaria meleagris, also a local name applied to Chelone. Snake's-mouth. Pogonia Ophioglossoides. Snake-weed. Polygonum bistorta. Snake-wood. See Brosimum. Snapdragon. See Antirrhinum. Sneezeweed. See Helenium autumnale. Sneezewort. Achillea Ptarmica. Snow-ball. Wild. Ceanothus Americanus. Snowball Tree. See Viburnum opulus. Snowberry. See Symphoricarpus. Snow-bush. California. Ceanothus cordulatus. Snow Creeper. East Indian. See Porana. Snow-cups. Water. Ranunculus aquatilis. Snowdrop. Crimean. Galanthus plicatus. Snowdrop. Summer. Leucojum cestivum. Snowdrop. See Galanthus nivalis. Snowdrop Tree. See Halesia. Snow-flake. Autumn. Leucojum autumnale. Spring. Leucojum vernum. Summer. Leucojum aistivum. Winter. Leucojum hyemale. Snowflake. The genus Leucojum. Snowflake Flower. See Styrax Japonica. Snowflower. Chionanthus Virginica. Snow-flower. Japanese. Deutzia gracilis. Snow Glory. Chionodoxa Luciliai. Snow in Summer. Cerastium tomentosum. Snow on the Mountain. Euphorbia variegata. Soapwort. The genus Saponaria. Soap Bark Tree. Quillaja Saponaria. Soap Berry Tree. Sapindus Saponaria. Soap Bulb. A common name for Chlorogalum Pomeridianum . Soap-Root. Egyptian. Vaccaria vulgaris. Soboliferous. Bearing vigorous, lithe shoots from near the ground. Soft Grass. A common name for Holcus mollis. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 417 SOB Sobra'lia. Named after Don F. M. Sobral, a Spanish botanist. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. The flowers of the principal species (S. ma- crantha) are gorgeously colored, of a rich rosy purple and the most intense crimson, and they are at the same time of large size. All the species belong to the class of terres- trial Orchids, being found on the margins of streams, growing like our reeds, in the alluvial deposit common to such places. This habit requires to be imitated in cultivation, and it is therefore best to pot them in very sandy loam, and either to place the pot for a few inches of its depth in a saucer of water, or to supply the roots by some other means abun- dantly with water while they are in an active state. The flowers are produced near the apex of the long, reed-like stems, and in the species mentioned are produced in daily succession, each one lasting a day, when it has been ob- served necessary to remove the decaying flower as soon as its beauty is past, or it rots, and con- sequently spoils the next in succession. Being natives of the milder parts of Guatemala, they do not require a very high temperature at any time, the ordinary one of a green-house being sufficient in summer, and from 45° to 50" in winter, when the plants should be kept nearly dry. There are three other species known, 8. decora, 8. liliastrum and S. sessilis, all of them beautiful, but far surpassed by the first mentioned. They are all natives of Central and South America and were introduced in 1836. Soil. A good soil is the base of success in all operations of the garden. What the proper- ties of a good soil are is not very easy to con- vey in writing, as quality is not always con- fined to a particular color or texture, though the practical horticulturist can nearly always tell, by turning up with a spade, the relative qualities of a soil. If selection can be made for general purposes, a rather dark-colored soil should be chosen, neither too sandy nor too clayey, and as deep as can be found, but not less than ten inches, or the chances are that it will not be of first quality. It should overlay a sandy loam of yellowish color, through which water will pass freely. The condition of the subsoil is of the first impor- tance in choosing soil. Sandy loam we believe to be the best ; next to that a porous gravel, and the least to be desired is a stiff, blue clay. Land having a clay subsoil is always later in maturing crops than one having a sandy or gravelly subsoil ; and, if the land is at all level, draining is indispensable at every fifteen or twenty feet, or no satisfaction can be had in culture. It is a common belief that poor land can be brought up by cultivation. A portion of the land used by us has the blue clay sub- soil above referred to, and, although in the past twenty years we have expended large sums in draining, subsoiling, and manuring, we have failed to get it into the condition of other portions of our grounds having the proper subsoil, and do not think that any cult- ure would bring it into as good shape. The soil for potting plants in is often a matter causing great anxiety to the amateur florist, many of the books giving advice on the subject insisting that special kinds are indis- pensable for different families of plants. We are glad to tell our readers that in our own estab- lishment, where upward of two millions of SOL plants are now grown annually in pots, we do not find it necessary to make these nice dis- tinctions. The great bulk of the soil we use in potting is composed of sods cut about three inches deep from any good sod land, preferring such as is known as sandy loam. The sods are heaped up in alternate layers of one-fourth of thoroughly rotted horse or cow manure or rotted refuse hops from breweries, when such are obtainable. Either of these three manures will do, separately or mixed together, as con- venient. This compost is better to stand six or eight months, but often our necessities compel us to use it much sooner, which makes no material difference, provided it is at a season of the year when the sod will rot. The man- ure and sods are thoroughly mixed and chopped up, and for the smaller plants is run through a fine sieve. Peat, so much insisted on as a necessity for Azaleas, Ferns and other fine-rooted plants, we rarely use, substituting instead either mould formed from thoroughly rotted refuse hops, or dried Moss (Sphagnum) run through a fine sieve ; either of these, mixed in about equal parts with our sod mould, we use instead of peat for all thread-like rooting plants. Besides, true peat is rarely to be found in this country, and is well replaced by leaf mould, if necessary. Soil for Seeds. See " Propagation by Seeds." Soil. Importance of firming. See " Sowing, use of the feet in." So'ja. From soqja, the name of a sauce made from the seeds in Japan. Nat. Ord. Legumir nosce. S. hispida is a climbing annual plant, allied to Dolichos. It is much cultivated in tropical Asia on account of its beans, which are used for preparing a well-known brown and slight- ly salt sauce (Soy) used both in Asia and Europe for flavoring certain dishes, especially beef, and supposed to favor digestion. Of late it has been, to some extent, cultivated as an oil plant. Solana'ceae. A large natural order of erect or climbing shrubs or herbs, natives of all tropi- cal countries, but more especially of America ; a few are also found in more temperate cli- mates. Many are remarkable for their strong narcotic, poisonous qualities. The most use- ful of all to man is the Potato (Solarium tuber- osum) ; Tobacco (Nicotiana) is also a very important article of commerce. The Tomato (Lycopersicum) is very largely cultivated, as is also the Egg Plant (Solarium Melongena). Belladonna, Henbane and Stramonium are used largely in medicine, There are about sixty genera, the most important of which are Capsicum, Nicotiana, Physalis, Datura, Hyoscyamus, Solanum, Petunia, etc. Sola'ndra. Named after Dr. Solander, a Swede, companion of Sir Joseph Banks in his voyage around the world and collector of the botani- cal notes made during the expedition. They are preserved in the British Museum and ex- hibit deep learning and great research. Nat. Ord. Solanacem. A genus of coarse-growing, green-house, evergreen shrubs and climbers, natives of tropical America and the East Indies. The flowers are large and trumpet-shaped, like the Datura, to which they are allied. They 418 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS SOL grow readily in the green-house, and make showy plants, the objection to them being that they are coarse. They are increased readily from cuttings. Introduced in 1820. Sola'num. Nightshade. The derivation of this word is quite uncertain ; some derive it from Sol, the sun ; others say it is Sulanum, from sua, being serviceable in the disorders of swine ; and others assert that it is from solor, to comfort, referring to its soothing, narcotic effects. Nat. Ord. Solanacece. This very extensive genus is composed of a great number of varied forms, from that of a tropical tree to the creeping, indigenous weed ; it also includes plants which produce valuable articles of food, as well as several species whose .active properties are danger- ously poisonous. The most important spe- cies in the genus is S. tuberosum, which is described at length under its more familiar name, Potato (which see). 8. melongena, or Egg Plant of our gardens, "Aubergine" of the French, is a valued article of food in its season, and the berries of several other spe- cies are edible. S. Dulcamara, with oval red berries, and S. nigrum, with globular black berries, are the Bittersweet and common Nightshade of our hedges and roadsides, the fruits of which are poisonous. Several of the species are desirable for ornamental purposes. S. Jasminoides is a valuable green-house climber, producing, with but little trouble, an immense number of axillary clusters of pure white flowers nearly all season. It is a rapid grower, and suitable to train on a back wall or on pillars or rafters. S. Capsicastrum, 8. Pseudo-capsicum, S. ciliatum, S. Hendersonii, and others are popular plants for green-house or house decoration when covered with their bright colored berries. 8. marginatum, S. Warscevdczii and S. robustum are very showy large-leaved plants, and are valuable for sub- tropical decoration. A large number of other species have been introduced, and many of them are useful on account of their ornamen- tal appearance. The annuals, and a large number of the other species, may be readily raised from seeds. Those which bear tubers may be readily increased thereby, and the stove and green-house shrubby sorts may generally be propagated from cuttings. Out of twenty tuber-bearing species which have been named, J. G. Baker, in the "Journal of the Linnean Society," vol. xx., is of opinion "that six, viz., S. tuberosum, S. Maglia, 8. Commersoni, S. cardiophyllum, S. Jamesii and S. oxycarpum, possess a fair claim to be con- sidered as distinct species in a broad sense." Sola'ria. Named in honor of Francisci de Borja Solar, an eminent Chilian mathematician. Nat. Ord. LiliaceaR. 8. Miersioides, the only species introduced, is a remarkable, green-house, bulbous plant, with small green flowers, introduced from Chili in 1871. It is seldom found in cultiva- tion except in botanical collections, and is increased by seeds or offsets. Soldane'lla. A diminutive of solidus, a shil- ling ; shape of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Primu- lacece. A small genus of beautiful little alpine plants, very suitable for rock-work. They are half-hardy, herbaceous perennials, with purple or blue flowers, natives of Switzerland. SON They will not stand the hot, dry weather of this country unless great care is taken to keep them shaded from the mid-day sun, and they must not be allowed to get dry. Propa- gated by division or from seeds. So'lea. Green Violet. In honor of W. Sole, author of an essay on the genus Mentha. Nat. Ord. Violacew. S. concolor, the only known species, is com- mon in woods from New York southward. Syn. Ionidium. Soleno'phora. From solen, a tube, and pherein, to bear; in allusion to the tubular form of the corolla. Nat. Ord. Gesneracea. A small genus of plant-stove, evergreen, pubescent shrubs, natives of Mexico. S. coccinea forms a neat plant, bearing showy, bright scarlet flowers in the axils of the leaves. S.Endlicheriana is a handsome plant with flowers of a bright orange color marked with purple, and large, broadly-elliptic, heavy leaves, a foot or more long, borne on long petioles. They require the same treatment as Gloxinia. Syn. Arctocalyx. Solida'go. Golden Rod. From solidare, to unite ; alluding to its supposed healing prop- erties. Nat. Ord. Composite. A very extensive genus of hardy, herba- ceous perennials, indigenous to and com- mon throughout the United States, only one species being found in Asia or Europe. The beauty of the plant would warrant its cultiva- tion, had not Nature's hand rendered it en- tirely unnecessary. So'llya. Named in honor of Richard Horsman Solly, a vegetable physiologist and anatomist. Nat. Ord. Pittosporacem. A small genus of slender, twining, ever- green shrubs of much beauty. Their leaves are narrow, quite smooth, of a deep, glossy green on the upper surface, and paler be- neath. The flowers are deep blue, and pro- duced in terminal cymes or clusters of from six to ten flowers each. Though properly green-house plants, they are well adapted for summer flowering in the open border. S. heterophylla, typical of the genus, is a native of the Swan River country, where all the species are found. It was discovered by Mr. Drummond, and sent to England in 1836. It is increased either by cuttings or from seed, the latter being preferable. All the species are hardy from Virginia southward. Solomon's Seal. See Polygonatum multiflorum. Solomon's Seal. False. See Smilacina. So'nchus. Sow Thistle. From somphos, hol- low; the stems are hollow. Nat. Ord. Com- posite. The more common species of this genus are coarse, roadside weeds, naturalized from Eu- rope. One or two species with yellow flow- ers, from the Madeira and Canary Isles, are very ornamental. They are, however, rarely cultivated. Soneri'la. From 8ootli-Soneri4la, the Khassee name of one of the species. Nat. Ord. Melas- tomacece. A very extensive genus of East Indian plants, remarkable in the order for having all the several parts of their flowers in whorls of three, or trimerous, as it is technically called. The plants are mostly herbaceous, though sometimes sub-shrubby, and of variable habit ; AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 419 SON some with and others without stems ; some glabrous and others hirsute ; and some with different kinds of leaves on the same plant. Their flowers are mostly purple or violet, borne on a scaphoid or boat-like raceme. Some of the hot-house species are beautiful plants. 8. Hendersoni and its varieties, and S. margari- tacea, with their handsomely marked foliage, are the most desirable. They require a warm, moist atmosphere to succeed well, and grow best in a soil composed chiefly of leaf mould and sand. Propagated by cuttings and from seeds. Sonnera'tia. Named in honor of Pierre Son- nerat, a botanical traveler and collector. Nat. Ord. Myrtacecs. A genus of very glabrous shrubs or small trees inhabiting the coast regions of India and the islands of the Eastern Archipelago. All the species have opposite, entire leaves, without dots, and large, usually solitary, ter- minal flowers. Dr. McClelland, in his " Re- port on the Teak Forests of Peru," states that the Kambala, S. apetala, is found throughout the Sunderbunds at the mouth of the Ganges, and as far south as Rangoon, and that its strong, hard, close-grained wood is used at Calcutta for making packing-cases for beer and wine. Several ornamental spe- cies have been introduced, and are propagated by seeds, which ripen freely, or by cuttings. Sopho'ra. Altered from sophera, the Arabic name of a leguminous tree. Nat. Ord. Legu- minosce. A genus of deciduous trees, hardy herba- ceous plants, and green-house evergreens. Sophora Japonica, the Chinese or Japan- ese Pagoda Tree, is a medium-sized tree, grows freely, and produces its large bunches of cream-colored flowers in August and Sep- tember. The drooping Sophora, however, though only considered a variety of the tree, is very distinct. It is a trailing shrub, sending out shoots six feet or eight feet long in a single season ; and when it is grafted on a stock of S. Japonica, ten or twelve feet high, these long, sweeping shoots, the bark of which is a bright green, have a peculiarly graceful appearance. The Sophora will grow in any soil, but a poor one suits it better than a rich one ; its leaves seldom drop, even in the driest seasons. Sophroni'tis. From sophrona, modest; refer- ring to the pretty little flowers of the original species. Nat. Ord. Orchidacem. Pretty little epiphytes, having a creeping stem, which should be attached to a block of wood, on which the root soon securely fastens itself. The leaves are sessile and compara- tively small, while the flowers, especially those of S. grandiflora, are large and very handsome, of a rich orange-red, marked with darker bars. The plants should have the treatment of the smaller kinds of Cattleya, and are well deserving the attention of culti- vators. The various species included in this genus are natives of Brazil, and were first introduced in 1827. So'rbus. The generic name given by Linnaeus to the Mountain Ash, or Rowan-tree, the culti- vated Service-tree, and a few others, which, by their pinnate leaves more than anything else, appear to differ from Pyrus. Modern botanists now refer them to Pyrus, which see. SOR So'rghum. From Sorghi, its Indian name. Nat. Ord. GraminacecB. A genus of strong-growing, reed-like grasses, chiefly represented in this country by S. saccharatum, our well-known Broom Corn, a native of India, from whence it was introduced into Europe in 1759. The intro- duction of Broom Corn into this country as an agricultural product is attributed to Dr. Franklin. He is said to have accidentally seen an imported whisk of corn in the posses- sion of a lady of Philadelphia, and while ex- amining it as a curiosity, found a seed, which he planted, and from that single seed has sprung this important article of agriculture and manufacture in the United States. This species is grown almost exclusively for the manufacture of brooms ; the seed is, however, valued highly for feeding to sheep, cattle and fowls. The seed crop is a precarious one, often completely failing, being injured by the frost before it is ripe. The crop is usually harvested before the seed is fairly ripe ; hence there is considerable loss in that way. The seed crop is, however, only a secondary mat- ter, and the profit that accrues from the seed is regarded an extra dividend on the profits of the farm. S. sucre is the Chinese Sugar Cane, or Imphee, a species introduced into the United States from France in 1856, and dis- tributed by the Patent Office Department at Washington, but more extensively by an en- terprising publisher in New York as a premium to his subscribers throughout the United States, for the purpose of growing the plant for the manufacture of sugar in our Northern States, which its advocates said could be done more profitably than sugar was produced at the South from the ordinary cane. The Abo- litionists at the North, who could not consci- entiously use the products of slave labor, were particularly active in introducing Sor- ghum, and were greatly disappointed when they found that the labor of the slave was not to be lessened by the withdrawal from the South of one of its most profitable industries. S. vulgare, another species, is the grand Millet of Arabia, known here as Durra or Doura, and which has been introduced into the United States, southern Europe, China and the West Indies.where it is extensively grown and much esteemed as food for laborers, and is called in the latter country Negro Guinea Corn. It is also grown extensively as a forage plant. 8. halapense, a handsome species from southern Europe, northern Africa, Syria, etc., is most attractive when in flower at the end of sum- mer, the inflorescence consisting of a dense panicle of purplish, awned flowers. It is a most suitable plant for groups or isolated specimens. It is now naturalized in some of the Southern States where it is known as Guinea Grass, Cuba Grass, and more gener- ally as Johnson Grass, which see. 8. cer- nuum is also grown there, and is known as Drooping Sorghum and Pampas Rice. All the species are grown in the same manner as our common field corn. The cultivation of Sorghum for the production of sugar and syrup has received a good deal of attention within a few years past, and many experiments have been made, and continue to be made, with various kinds of Sorghum, to ascertain not only their adaptability to particular soils and localities, but their sugar-producing 420 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS SOR capacity. The " Report of the Department of Agriculture " for 1879, contains a very in- teresting and instructive report from the chemist of the department, giving the results not only of the yield per acre of the four lead- ing kinds of Sorghum, as grown on the ex- perimental grounds, but also the quantity of sugar and syrup extracted from each kind. The report is accompanied by many very use- ful tables. Believing the matter of this report to be valuable to those interested in the culture of Sorghum, we have condensed a portion of it, and herewith present it : Dur- ing the past season (1879) there have been made several series of investigations for the purpose of determining the development of sugar in the juices of several varieties of Sor- ghum, Maize and Pearl Millet. These inves- tigations appear to demonstrate that there exists little difference between the various kinds of Sorghum as sugar-producing plants ; and, what is quite a surprising result, each of them is, at a certain period of its develop- ment, nearly, if not quite, as rich in sugar as the very best of Sugar-cane. It is a matter, also, of extreme practical importance that this maximum content of sugar is maintained for a long period, and affords sufficient time to work up a large crop. Another result of these investigations has been to satisfactorily explain the cause of repeated failure in the production of sugar during the past quarter of a century, and to give the assurance that, in the future, such failure need not attend this industry. For the purpose of making clear the above points, the results obtained in the laboratory and in out-of-door experiments are appended. The varieties of Sorghum grown and subjected to continuous investi- gation during the season were Early Amber, White Liberian, Chinese and Honduras, and the Pearl Millet. Besides the above there were made very many examinations of other specimens of Sorghums and Corn-stalks ; all the results of which only confirmed the gen- eral principles above stated, viz., the prac- tical equality and great value of every variety of this plant. The Early Amber Sorghum is the favorite variety with planters in Minne- sota and the Northwest. What is now called the Minnesota Early Amber Cane is claimed as an improvement upon the Early Amber varieties grown formerly in different parts of Minnesota, by Hon. Seth M. Kenny and Mr. C. F. Miller, of that State. Acting on the theory that cane in a high latitude will degen- erate if grown continuously from its own seed, these gentlemen selected the finest spec- imens of seed from their own crops and sent them to a southern latitude to be grown. The seed product of this southern growth was returned to Minnesota. By this alternation of seed, and by other intelligent processes of culture, they have succeeded in establishing a new and permanent variety, which they claim to be more productive in weight of cane and to contain a higher per cent, of saccha- rine matter than any other grown in that State. This claim needs to be substantiated by more careful and extended observations before it can be said to be fully established. Messrs. Kenny and Miller describe the Early Amber Cane as presenting "the characteristics of both Sorgho and Imphee." By Sorgho they mean the Chinese Sorgho, and by Imphee the SOR white Liberian and its kindred African varie- ties. The Early Amber receives its name from its early ripening and from the bright amber color which characterizes its syrup when properly made. The Early Amber Cane on the department grounds did not grow quite so tall as the White Liberian. Its seed-heads were of moderate fullness and of very dark color. The Chinese Sorghum grew on the department grounds to about the same height as the Early Amber. Its seed-heads are fuller and more compact, and somewhat re- semble a head of Sumac ; hence the synonym, ' ' Sumac Cane. " It is also known as ■ ' Chinese Cane." The White Liberian Sorghum is rather taller than the Early Amber. The stalk curves at the top, leaving the head pen- dant; hence the synonym, "Gooseneck." The seed-heads are shorter, more compact and of lighter color than the Early Amber. The Honduras Sorghum grows about one-half taller than either of the above varieties. Its seed-top is reddish-brown and spreading; hence the synonym, " Sprangle Top." It is also called " Mastodon," and " Honey Cane." The results of an analysis of each of the plants in the successive stages of develop- ment show that the amount of glucose (or un- crystallizable sugar) diminishes, and the amount of sucrose (or true cane sugar) in- creases. It may also be observed that the plants differ widely in the date when the sucrose is at its maximum, but are alike in this, that this maximum is attained at about the same degree of development of the plant, viz., at full maturity, as indicated by the hard, dry seed, and the appearance of offshoots from the upper joints of the stalk. It may also be observed that the heavy frost of Octo- ber 24, which was sufficient to produce one- half inch of ice, did not cause any marked diminution of sugar. For the purpose of com- parison, analyses were made of three varieties of Sugar-cane received from Louisiana, which arrived in excellent condition, and doubtless fairly represented the average character of this famous sugar-plant. It will be under- stood that the results are to be taken as a whole, since it was practically impossible to secure in each case specimen stalks for exam- ination in the laboratory, the development of which in every case corresponded to the date when the plant was cut, and, therefore, it doubtless happened that plants taken from the same row upon September 15, for exam- ple, were in reality no further developed than those selected a week earlier ; but, taken as a whole, the several series of the analyses are convincing, as showing the rate and progress of development of saccharine matter in the plant. The analyses of the several Sorghums under date of October 29, were made after they had been subjected to a very hard frost, sufficient to have formed ice one-half inch in thickness, and this cold weather continued for four days before this examination was made. There appeared to be no diminution of sucrose in either of the stalks examined, and no increase of glucose, as the result of this freezing and continued exposure to a low temperature. An examination was made on the 8th of November, after a few days of warm weather had followed this cold spell, and the influence of this subsequent thaw was notice- able in the diminution of sucrose and the m- 60LANUM WABSCEWICZII. SOLANUM CAPSICASTRUM. 420 BOBGHCM HALAPEN8E (JOHNSOS GBA88). SOBGHUM (EABLY AMBEB). HBftwWBr ■SHawF SPIRJF.A FILIPENDULA PL. PL. SPIRAEA ASTILBOIDES. SPARAXIS. SPIRJEA VAN HOUTTEII. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 421 SOR crease of glucoseun each specimen examined. From this it would appear that the effect of cold, even protracted, is not injurious to the quality of the canes, but that they should be speedily worked up after freezing and before they have again thawed out. This is a matter of such practical importance that some exper- iments should be made to learn whether the syrup prepared from the juice of frozen cane, differs from that prepared from cane not frozen, but in other respects of like quality. The Early Amber, Chinese, Liberian and Honduras Sorghums and the Pearl Millet ex- amined, mentioned as having been grown upon the department grounds, were all planted the same day, May 15, 1879. The relative weights of the different kinds of Sorghum experimented upon are as follows : Pounds. Early Amber, average of 40 stalks 1.73 White Liberian, average of 38 stalks 1.80 -Chinese, average of 25 stalks 2.00 Honduras, average of 16 stalks 3.64 Since these were all grown side by side, and upon land presumably of equal fertility, it will afford the data for calculating the rela- tive amount of each variety to be grown per acre. For more clearly presenting the facts developed by the examination of the four kinds of Sorghum, it may be observed that the Early Amber and Liberian correspond in their development, being almost identical, and yet clearly distinct varieties. It may also be stated, that while these two varieties attain a content of sugar in their juices equal to the average content in the juice of Sugar- cane by the middle of August, the Chinese does not reach this condition until the last of September, while the Honduras does not reach this point until the middle of October. After having attained approximately the max- imum content of sugar, this condition is maintained for a long period, affording ample time to work up the crop. It is doubtless true that, had the season been longer, it would have been found that the Chinese and Honduras, having once attained this full de- velopment, of sugar, would also have retained It ; but the heavy frosts and subsequent warm weather, which happened about November U4th, caused a rapid diminution of sucrose in each variety, and a corresponding increase of glucose. The converse of what is found true of the sucrose is true as to the development of the glucose, and a minimum quantity, once attained, is continued a long time, and this minimum is quite as low as the average amount found present in the sugar-canes. It is obvious that the results are not to be taken as entirely exact, but the general fact is, with- out doubt, true. An average of all the exam- inations made of these four Sorghums during the periods when they were suitable for cut- tings, gives the following results : Early Am- "ber, from August 13th to October 29th inclu- sive, fifteen analyses, extending over seventy- eight days, 14.6 per cent, sucrose. Liberian, Irom August 13th to October 29th inclusive, thirteen analyses, extending over seventy- eight days, 13.8 per cent, sucrose. Chinese. Irom September 13th to October 29th inclu- sive, seven analyses, extending over forty-six days, 13.8 per cent, sucrose. Honduras, from October 14th to October 29th inclusive, three analyses, extending over sixteen days, 14.6 SOR per cent, sucrose. Besides the investigations above mentioned, there have been made thirty-five experiments in making sugar from Corn-stalks, Sorghums, Pearl Millet, etc., in all of which there have been used over twenty- three tons of stalks. The result of these experiments has been to fully confirm all the experiments not only of the previous year, but also to help towards the solution of cer- tain questions of the highest practical impor- tance. In every case it has been found that the quality of the syrup obtained has been precisely such as the previous analysis in the laboratory of the juice used made probable. An average of the nine best syrups obtained showed a percentage of Cane sugar present equal to 92.7 of the amount originally present in the juice, while an average of the nine poorest (i. e., containing the lowest percentage of Cane sugar) showed a percentage of Cane sugar present equal to 90.1 of the amount present in the juice. This must not be under- stood to mean that there has been no loss of sugar in the process of manufacture, as such conclusion would be quite erroneous. An ex- periment was also made to determine whether splitting the canes before they were passed through the mill would increase the percent- age of juice obtained from the stalks. One hundred pounds of butt ends of Honduras Sorghum were split lengthwise, and then passed through the mill. Another parcel of one hundred pounds of butts of the same variety of Sorghum, equal in all respects to the previous lot, was passed through the mill without splitting them. The results obtained were as follows : Percentage of juice obtained from split stalks, 54 per cent. ; percentage of juice obtained from unsplit stalks, 57 per cent. ; from which it would appear that in this case at least the previous splitting of the stalks occasioned an appreciable loss in juice. A few of the experiments made give a reason- able basis for estimating the probable yield of syrup and sugar to the acre ; and, there- fore, an approximate estimate of the cost of producing sugar. Below is a tabulated result of a few of the experiments from stalks grown upon the grounds of the department. These stalks were grown in rows three feet apart and in drills, and although a good crop, there is no doubt but that, upon good land, the esti- mated yield to the acre could be obtained : Varieties. ■ M ■a . •£ 9 00 u *s go. ft •d Sowing. The following article was read by us before the "Association of American Nur- serymen," at Chicago, in 1883. As it is a mat- ter of such vital importance, we make no apology for its introduction : It may be useless to throw out any sugges- tions in relation to horticultural operations to such a body of practical men as is now before me. Yet I candidly admit that, although I have been extensively engaged in gardening operations for over a quarter of a century, I did not fully realize, until a few years ago, the full importance of how indispensable it was to use the feet in the operations of sowing and planting. For some years past I have, in writing on gardening matters, insisted upon the great importance of "firming" the soil over the seeds after sowing, especially when the soil is dry, or likely to become so. I know of no operation of more importance in either the farm or garden, and I trust that what I am about to say will be read and remembered by every one not yet aware of the vast impor- tance of the practice. I say " vast impor- tance," for the loss to the agricultural and horticultural community, from the habit of loosely sowing seeds or planting plants in hot and dry soils, is of a magnitude which few will believe, until they have witnessed it ; and itis- a loss all the more to be regretted, when we know that by "firming" the soil around the seed or plant, there is, in most cases, a cer- tain preventive. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 423 SOW Particularly in the sowing of seeds, I con- sider the matter of such vast importance, that it cannot be too often or too strongly told ; for the loss to the agricultural and horticultural community, by the neglect of the simple operation of firming the soil around the seed, must amount to many millions annually. For the mischief done is not confined only to the less important garden operations, but even Corn, Cotton, Wheat, Turnips, and other important crops of the farm often fail, in hot and dry soils, by being sown without being firmed sufficiently to prevent the dry air shriveling or drying the seeds. Of course, the use of the feet is impracticable in firming seeds on the farm, but a heavy roller, applied after sowing, is an absolute necessity under certain conditions of the soil, to insure per- fect germination. From the middle of April to nearly the end of May of this year, in many sections of the country, there was little or no rain. Such was particularly the case in the vicinity of New York City, where we have hundreds of market gardeners, who cultivate thousands of acres of Cabbage, Cauliflower and Celery, but the "dry spring" has played sad havoc with their seed-beds. Celery is not one-fourth of a crop, and Cabbage and Cauli- flower hardly half, and this failure is due to no other cause than that they persist in sow- ing their seeds without ever taking the pre- caution to firm the soil by rolling. We sow annually about four acres of Celery, Cabbage, and Cauliflower plants, which pro- duce probably five millions in number, and which we never fail to sell mostly in our immediate neighborhood, to the market gar- deners, who have, many of them, even better facilities than we have for raising these plants, if they would only do as we do, firm the seed after sowing, which is done thus : After plowing, harrowing, and leveling the land smoothly, lines are drawn by the " marker, " which makes a furrow, about two inches deep and a foot apart ; after the man who sows the seed follows another, who, with the ball of the right foot, presses down his full weight on every inch of soil in the drill where the seed has been sown ; the rows are then lightly leveled longitudinally with the rake, a light roller is passed over them, and the operation is done. By this method our crop has never once failed, and what is true of Celery and Cabbage seed is nearly true of all other seeds requiring to be sown during the late spring or summer months. On July 2d of 1874, as an experiment, I sow- ed twelve rows of Sweet Corn and twelve rows of Beets, treading in, after sowing, every alternate row of each. In both cases, those trod in came up in four days, while those un- firmed remained twelve days before starting, and would not then have germinated had not rain fallen, for the soil was dry as dust when the seed were sown. The result was, that the seeds that had been trodden in grew freely from the start and matured their crops to a marketable condition by fall; while the rows unfirmed did not mature, as they were not only eight days later in germinating, but the plants were also, to to some extent, enfeebled by being partially dried in the loose, dry soil. This experiment was a most useful one, for SOW it proved that a Corn crop, sown in the vicinity of New York as late as July 2d, could be made to produce " roasting ears " in Octo- ber, when they never fail to sell freely at high rates, but the crop would not mature unless the seed germinated at once, and which would never be certain at that dry and hot season, unless by this method. The same season, in August, I treated seeds of Turnip and Spinach in the same way. Those trod in germinated at once and made an excellent crop, while those unfirmed germi- nated feebly, and were eventually nearly all burned out by a continuance of dry, hot air penetrating through the loose soil to the ten- der rootlets. Of course, this rule of treading in or firming seeds after sowing must not be blindly fol- lowed. Very early in spring or late in fall, when the soil is damp and there is no danger from heated, dry air, there is no necessity for doing so, or even at other seasons the soil may be in a suitable condition to sow, and yet be too damp to be trodden upon or rolled. In such cases these operations may not be necessary at all, for, if rainy weather ensue, the seeds will germinate of course; but if there is any likelihood of continued drought, the treading or rolling may be done a week or so after sowing, if it is at such a season that there is reason to believe the seed may suffer from the dry, hot air. Another very important advantage gain- ed by treading in the seeds is, that when we have crops of Beets, Celery, Turnips, Spinach, or anything else that is sown in rows, the seeds to form the crop come up at once; while the seeds of the weeds, that are just as liable to perish by the heat as are those of the crop, are retarded. Such of the weed seeds as lie in the space between the rows when the soil is loose, will not germinate as quickly as those of the crop sown; and hence we can cul- tivate between the rows before the weeds ger- minate at all. Now, if firming the soil around seed to pro- tect it from the influence of a dry and hot atmosphere is a necessity, it is obvious that it is even more so in the case of plants whose rootlets are even more sensitive to such in- fluence than the dormant seed. Experienced professional horticulturists, however, are less likely to neglect this than to neglect in the case of seeds, for the dam- age from such neglect is easier to be seen, and hence better understood by the practical nurseryman; but with the inexperienced amateur the case is different. When he re- ceives his package of trees or plants from the nurseryman, he handles them as if they were glass ; every broken twig or root calls forth a complaint, and he proceeds to plant them, gingerly straightening out each root and sift- ing the soil around them, but he would no more stamp down that soil than he would stamp on the soil of his mother's grave. So the plant, in nine cases out of ten, is left loose and waggling ; the dry air penetrates through the soil to its roots ; the winds shake it ; it shrivels up and fails to grow ; and then come the anathemas on the head of the unfortunate nurseryman, who is charged with selling him dead trees or plants. About a month ago I sent a package of a dozen Roses by mail to a lady in Savannah. 424 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS SOY She wrote me a woeful story last week, saying that, though the Roses had arrived seemingly all right, they had all died but one, and what was very singular, she said, the one that lived was the one that Mr. Jones had stepped on, and which she had thought sure was crushed to death, for Mr. Jones weighs two hundred pounds. Now, though I do not advise any gentleman of two hundred pounds putting his brogan on the top of a tender Rose plant as a practice conducive to its health, yet, if Mrs. Jones could have allowed her weighty lord to press the soil against the root of each of her dozen Roses, I much doubt if she would now have to mourn their loss. It has often been a wonder to many of us, who have been workers in the soil for a gene- ration, how some of the simplest methods of culture have not been practiced until we were nearly done with life's work. There are few of us but have had such ex- perience ; personally, I must say that I never pass through a year but I am confounded to find that some operation can not only be quicker done but better done than we have been in the habit of doing it. These improvements loom up from various causes, but mainly from suggestions thrown out by our employees in charge of special de- partments, a system which we do all in our power to encourage. As a proof of the value of such improve- ments which have led to simplifying our oper- ations, I will state the fact, that though my area of green-house surface is now more than double that which it was in 1870, and the land used in our florist's business one-third more, yet the number of hands employed is less now than in 1870, and yet, at the same time, the quality of our stock is infinitely better now than then. Whether it is the higher price of labor in this country, that forces us into labor-saving expedients, or the interchange of opinions from the greater number of nationalities cen- treing here, that gives us broader views of . culture, I am not prepared to state ; but that America is now selling nearly all the products of the green-house, garden, nursery, and farm, lower than is done in Europe, admits of no question ; and if my homely suggestions in this matter of firming the soil around newly- planted seeds or plants will in any degree assist us in still holding to the front, I shall be gratified. Soymi'dia febrifuga. The Rohuna of Hin- dostan is the only species of a genus of MeliacecB, peculiar to the East Indies. It forms a tall tree with wood resembling mahogany, and a very bitter astringent bark. On the Coromandel coast of India, it is known as the. Red-wood Tree. Spadix. A succulent spike bearing many ses- sile, closely placed flowers ; a spike inclosed in a spathe. Spanish Bayonet or Spanish Dagger. A popu- lar name for Yucca aloifolia, and other species. Spanish Blue-Bell, or Squill. Scilla Hispanica. Spanish Broom. See Spartium junceum. Spanish Chestnut. Castanea sativa. Spanish Lily. See Hymenocallis. Spanish Oak. Quercus falcata. Spanish Oyster Plant. See Scolymus Hispanicus. SPA Spara'xis. From sparossa, to tear ; alluding to the lacerated spathes. Nat. Ord. Iridacece. This genus is fast rising in the estimation of both the florist and the gardener. Varie- ties, very pleasing in color, are annually raised in Europe. It is a dwarf, bulbous fam- ily of plants from the Cape of Good Hope, pro- ducing flowers, many of them exceeding two inches across, exceedingly rich and beauti- ful in their coloring, being blotched, spotted, flaked and varied with pure white, yellow, orange, red, purple and violet, in almost every possible manner. They are more com- pact and dwarf than the Ixia, few of them attaining a greater height than six to twelve inches, and they succeed best planted in a frame where they can have a slight protection during winter. They succeed well also grown in pots in a cool green-house. The bulbs should be potted in September, and kept under a bench until they begin to grow, when they should be given light and water. Three or four bulbs may be put into a five-inch pot with good effect. They were first introduced in 1811, and are rapidly increased by offsets or by seeds. Sparga'nium. Bur Reed. From aparganon, a fillet ; because of the ribbon-like leaves. Nat. Ord. TyphacecB. A genus of marsh plants, of which the Bur Reed is typical, found in almost every part of the world. The root of S. ramosum and of S. simplex was formerly used medicinally under the name of Radix sparganii, and was sup- posed to cure snake bites. The stem has been used, for making paper. Sparma'nnia. In honor of Dr. A. Sparmann, a Swedish botanist, who accompanied Captain Cook in his second voyage around the world. Nat. Ord. Tiliacem. S. Africana, African Hemp, the only de- scribed species of this genus, is a very beauti- ful, evergreen, green-house shrub, introduced into Europe from the Cape of Good Hope in 1790. It is a shrub from six to twelve feet high, with long-stalked, heart-shaped leaves, and clothed with soft, downy and pretty white flowers in umbels. S. A. flore-pleno, is a handsome double flowered variety. They are old favorites in the green-house, and are propagated by cuttings. Sparrow Grass. A corruption of Asparagus. Sparrows. Of late years the Sparrow has be- come a bone of contention with farmers and gardeners, many contending that they were more harmful than useful, driving away by their numbers and pugnacity the many insec- tivorous birds, as the Robin, Oriole, etc., which must feed on insects or starve, and even urging a war of extermination against them. In England strenuous efforts have for many years been made to limit their number by shooting the birds, removing the eggs and nests where accessible, and even, in some sec- tions, by putting a price on their heads. Be this as it may, many of us can remember the disgusting Measuring-worm that festooned the shade trees in New York, Brooklyn, and other cities, some twenty-five years ago. These decreased in proportion as the Sparrows in- creased, and the trees in our parks and streets are now almost clear of their ravages. The same is true of the Rose Slug. Before the Sparrow got so plentiful in our neighborhood AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 425 SPA we were obliged to employ a number of boys for weeks during the summer to shake off and kill the Rose Slug, but now, hardly one of these pests is seen. An examination of the crop of a Sparrow killed in July showed that it contained Rose Slugs, Green Fly, and the seeds of Chickweed and other plants, proving beyond question the fact that they are pro- miscuous feeders. Sparti'na. Cord Grass. From spartine, a cord made from broom. Nat. Ord. Graminacece. An extensive genus of perennial grasses, common throughout North America, and some parts of Europe. They chiefly inhabit wet or marshy places. Some of the species furnish a valuable fibre. Spa'rtium. Spanish Broom. From sparton, cordage ; alluding to the flexible shoots. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A small genus of hardy, deciduous shrubs, inhabiting a greater portion of the Mediter- ranean region. Some of the species have been cultivated in the English gardens for more than three hundred years. The growth is like that of the common broom, but the green polished twigs are terete and rush-like instead of angular. The handsome yellow pea-flowers, arranged in racemes at the ends of the twigs, are highly perfumed and very attractive to bees. A double-flowered variety is in cultivation. A number of the species are now referred to Genista and Cytisvs. Spatala'nthus. From spatalos, delicate, and anthos, a flower. Nat. Ord. Iridacem. A very rare and beautiful Cape bulb, allied to Trichonema. There is but one species known, and that is rare in its own country. The flowers are red with a yellow and black star in the centre. It may be grown in a frame, or in pots in the green-house, requiring the same culture as the Ixia. It was introduced in 1825, and is propagated by offsets. This genus is now included under Romulea by many botanists. Spatha'ntheum. From spathe, a spathe, and anthos, a flower ; the flowers are seated on the midrib of the spathe. Nat. Ord. Aroidew. A small genus of tuberous-rooted perennials, found in Africa and South America. 8. het- erandrum, the only species in cultivation, is a very singular plant producing a solitary, bright- green, fleshy, deeply pinnatifid leaf, one foot long on a petiole two feet long. It was intro- duced from Africa in 1876, and is propagated by division of the tubers or by offsets. Spathe. A broad sheathing leaf enclosing flowers arranged on a spadix, and guarding them while young, as in most Palms, Arums, etc. Spathe'lia. A genus of Simarubacece, compris- ing three species of tall and showy evergreen trees, natives of the West Indies. S. Simplex, the May Pole, Mountain Green, or Mountain Pride of the West Indies, has a tall, slender stem, resembling that of a Palm.with red flow- ers in panicles several feet long. It is the only species introduced to cultivation, and is propagated by cuttings. Spathiphy'llum. From spathe, a spathe, and phyllon, a leaf ; alluding to the leaf-like spathe. Nat. Ord. Aroidece. A genus comprising over twenty species of stemless herbs, with sheathing, saggitate, SPE entire leaves, natives of tropical America. Some of the smaller species such as S. candi- dum, S. Patini and S.floribundum are useful for decorative purposes, and form a very effective contrast with Anthuriums, etc. They require a moist atmosphere and an abun- dance of water, and are increased by division of the root-stock. Spatho'dea. From spathe, a spathe ; in reference to the form of the calyx. Nat. Ord. Bigno- niacece. A genus of very showy plants, natives of the East Indies, western Africa, Trinidad, etc. They are closely allied to Bignonia and require the same treatment as the stove- house species of that genus. Spathoglo'ttis. From spathe, a spathe, and glottis, a tongue. Nat. Ord. Orchidaceaz. A small genus of terrestrial Orchids, allied to Bletia, natives of the East Indies, southern China, the Malayan Archipelago and Aus- tralia. They have generally yellow flowers, many of the lately introduced species as S. Viellardii, S. Lobbii, S. Pacifica, etc., being very interesting and desirable Orchids. Spa'thulate. Oblong ; with the lower end very much attenuated, so that the whole resembles a druggist's spatula. Spatter Dock. A common name for Nuphar advena. Spawn. Mushroom. The vegetative part of a Mushroom represented by the delicate white down and strings or threads (mycelium) growing among masses of decaying stable manure, horse droppings, etc. In artificially prepared spawn, the mycelium grows in firm brick-shaped or loose masses, penetrating into all parts of these, and filling them with the white cells of which it is composed. If kept dry, Mushroom spawn will keep good for years. In England and France the preparation of Mushroom spawn is quite a large industry, large quantities being exported every year in addition to the home consumption. Many attempts have been made to prepare the spawn of truffles, but they have as yet been unsuccessful. The introduction of the spawn of valuable varieties, will, we have no doubt, some day, cause a considerable change in the produce of a Mushroom bed. See Mushroom. Spear Grass. Various species of Agrostis. Spear Grass. New Zealand. See Aciphylla. Spearmint. See Mentha viridis. Spearwort. Ranunculus lingua. Species. " A species comprises all the individ- ual plants which resemble each other suffi- ciently to make us conclude that they are all, or may have been all, descended from a common parent. These individuals may often differ from each other in many striking particulars, such as the color of the flower, size of the leaf, etc., but these particulars are such as experi- ence teaches us are liable to vary in the seed- lings raised from one individual." — Bentham. Specula'ria. From the ancient name Speculum Veneris, or Venus's Looking-Glass. Nat. Ord. Campanulacew. A small genus of hardy annuals, formerly included in Campanula. S. speculum is a dis- tinct and pretty species, with purplish-lilac flowers, varying to rose-colored and white. They are among the many old garden favorites 426 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OP PLANTS SPE now rarely met, though deserving a place in the border. They grow readily from seed, and a succession of sowing will keep up a con- tinuance of bloom during the whole summer. One of the species, 8. perfoliate,, is a native of this country ; the others are from central and southern Europe. Speedwell. See Veronica. Spergula pilifera. A synonym for Sagina piU ifera, which see. Spha'cele. From sphakos, the Greek name of Sage, which these plants resemble in foliage.' Nat. Ord. Labiatoe. A genus of green-house shrubby plants, natives of western America, from Brazil and Chili to California. A few species have been introduced, but are seldom found in cultiva- tion. 8. Lindleyi, which has ovate, cordate leaves, woolly beneath, is sometimes cultivated under the name of Stachys Salvice. Sphaera'lcea. Globe Mallow. From sphaira, a globe, and Alcea, Marsh-mallow, the carpels are disposed in a round head. A genus of green-house or hardy shrubs or herbs resem- bling Malva in habit, natives of the warm regions of America and the Cape of Good Hope. They are readily increased by cuttings of the young wood ; S. abutiloides, 8. angusti- folia, S. umbellata, etc., are often cultivated under the name of Malva. Sphaero'gyne. From spharia, a globe, and gyne, a female. Nat. Ord. Melastomacece. This genus is remarkable for the color of its foliage. S. latifolia has large, broad, and flat leaves, deep green on top, the under side cin- namon brown, the leaves and stem being very hairy; it makes a magnificent specimen plant. A few other species are to be found in choice collections of ornamental-leaved plants. They are natives of tropical America, and are propagated by cuttings. Introduced in 1864. This genus is now included under Tococa by many botanists. Sphaeroste'ma. From sphairo, a globe, and 8temma, a crown ; in allusion to the arrange- ment of the stamens. Nat. Ord. Schizand- raceai. A name under which the Asiatic species of Schizandra have been distinguished as a genus; now included by many botanists un- der Schizandra, which see. Spha'gnum. A name given by Pliny for some kind of Moss. A genus of Mosses found in all temperate countries, and exceedingly common in our swamps and bogs. It is an excellent material for packing plants in, being extremely retentive of moisture, and yet contains so much astringency as to check decay. It is also used for potting orchidaceous and some other plants. This material has been long used in the packing of plants by both florists and nurserymen and in various other opera- tions connected with Horticulture. In our uses of Sphagnum we have found another method of using it, the value of which will be apparent to those who have had experience in raising seeds under glass. Our method is as follows : In preparing the soil for seeds we get it as fine and rich as possible, passing it through a very fine sieve. This soil is placed in boxes only two or three inches deep, and it is then made perfectly level and as smooth as possible ; on this smooth surface of soil the seeds are SPI sown, and then pressed down into the soil with a smooth board. The seed being thus sunk just to the surface of the soil, we now sift dry Sphagnum, that has been run through a wire mosquito net, over the seed, just thick enough to well cover it. This Moss forms a light, spongy covering, and affords just the best condition needed for germination ; and we have found that any seeds having any vitality in them are certain to germinate by this method. The German Peat Moss, now largely used as an absorbent for liquid manure, etc. , in stables, is simply the decayed Sphag- num of the swamps from which the water has been thoroughly expressed. When its great value as a deodorizer and absorbent becomes known, the large deposits of it in this country will doubtless become utilized. See " Man- ures—Absorbents for." Sphena'ndra. From sphen, a wedge, and and- ros, an anther ; alluding to the shape of the anthers. Nat. Ord. Scrophulariacece. S. viscosa, the only species is a viscous-pu- bescent, annual or perennial herb, with pretty violet flowers. It is a native of South Africa, and is increased by seeds. Known in culti- vation under the name of Buchnera viscosa. Sphenode'sma. From sphen, a wedge, and desme, a small bundle ; alluding to the form of the inflorescence. Nat. Ord. Verbenacece. A genus of climbing shrubs, natives of India and the Malayan Archipelago. S. pent- andra, the only species introduced, bears flowers six in a head, with a purple corolla and a white, very hairy, throat. It was intro- duced from India in 1823, and is increased by cuttings. Spheno'gyne. From sphen, a wedge, and gyne, a female. Nat. Ord. Composites. A genus of hardy annuals and green-house, evergreen perennials, mostly natives of the Cape of Good Hope. They have large, spread- ing, rayed flower-heads, of an orange color barred with black. 8. speciosa is a showy an- nual, a native of South America, and resem- bles the Anthemis. It will succeed if sown in the open border in spring, but is much earlier and better if treated as a half-hardy annual and sown in early spring in heat. This genus is now included under Ursina by many bot- anists. Spicate. Having, or resembling a spike. Spice Bush. See Ldndera (Laurus) Benzoin. Spice Tree. Oreodaphne Californica. Spider Flower. A common name for Cleome. Spider Orchis. Orchis aranifera. Spider. Red. See Insects. Spider-wort. See Tradescantia. Blue. Commelina cailestis. Branched. Anthericwm Liliago. Dwarf. Tradescantia pilosa. Great Savoy. Anthericum Liliastrwm. Mountain. Lloydia serotina. Spige'lia. Worm Grass. Named after Adrian Spigelius, a botanist at Padua. Nat. Ord. Loganiaceos. An extensive genus of half-hardy annuals and herbaceous perennials, some of which are ornamental border plants. The Pink Root, Worm Grass, or Indian Pink, is S. Martian- dica, common in Pennsylvania and southward. It is a desirable plant for the rock-work or AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 427 SPI rock-garden and is well known for its medici- nal properties. Spignel. A common name for Meum Athamanti- cum. Spike. A long, simple axis, with many sessile flowers. A compound spike is a collection of spikes arranged in a racemose manner. Spike Grass. See Brizopyrum spicatum. Spikelet. A secondary spike; the term is especially applied to the small terminal col- lection of florets in grasses. Spikenard. See Aralia racemosa. Cretan. Valeriana Phu. False. Smilacina racemosa. Mountain. Valeriana tuberosa. Ploughman's. Conyza squarrosa and the genus Baccharis. West Indian. Hyptis suaveolens. Spinach. Common Garden. See Spinacia. Cuban. Claytonia Cubensis. East Indian. Basella alba, and B. rubra. New Zealand. See Tetragonia expansa. Strawberry. Blitum capitatum. Wild. A common name for Chenopodium Bonus-Henricus. Spina'cia. From spina, a prickle ; in allusion to the prickly processes of the seeds. Nat. Ord. Chenopodiacea. The common Spinach is a hardy annual, and \ supposed to be a native of Western Asia, from the fact that in the early works of the Arabian physicians this plant is mentioned in connec- tion with its medical properties, without the slightest allusion to its uses as a vegetable. Spain is supposed to have been the first Euro- pean country into which it was introduced ; for many of the old botanists call it Olus Hispani- cum, and some of the old writers call it His- panach or Spanish Plant. Beckmann, who wrote about 1790, says the first notice of its being used as a vegetable was in 1351, in a list of the different vegetables consumed on fast days by the monks. Turner, who wrote in Eng- land in 1538, mentions its being in common cul- tivation, and prepared for the table in precisely the same manner as it is at present. Spinach is an annual plant, having large and succulent leaves ; the flower-stems rise to the height of two or three feet. The male and female flow- ers grow on different plants, the female yield- ing the seed. The former are produced in long terminal spikes, and the latter in close clusters at the joints of the stem or axils of the leaves or branches. S. oleracea is the only known species.and from this the several garden varieties have been obtained. The smooth Round Leaf is the variety mostly grown for market; the Prickly Leaved is more hardy, and is, therefore, the kind which used to be sown in the fall for a first early spring crop, until the variety known as the Savoy Spinach was introduced in 1875. This has a crumpled leaf resembling Savoy Cabbage, and is now extensively cultivated, particularly as a fall or winter sort, as it has proved hardier than any of the others, and produces a greater weight of crop. It has the fault, however, of running up sooner to seed than the Round Leaved, and, for that reason, is not so good to sow in spring. The variety known as "Thick-leaved" is one ;Of the best market sorts. It produces a large, thick, strong, green leaf somewhat crumpled, and possesses the valuable quality of standing SPI a long time before running to seed. This variety is equally good for spring or fall. The " Long Standing" is another variety that possesses the peculiarity of standing a long time before running to seed, but in all other respects, it is very similar to the well-known " Round Leaf." Another variety, the " Large Round-leaved Viroflay " is a heavy growing sort, much resembling the "Thick-leaved." It is a good cropper and hardy. Spinach in the latitude of New York should be sown from the fifth to the fifteenth of Sep- tember, in rows twelve to fifteen inches apart. It is important with this, as with most other seeds, to firm the soil by treading on the rows with the feet, or using a heavy roller after sowing, as otherwise, if the weather is dry, the seed may be shriveled, so that it will not germinate if loosely covered. In all sections of the country where the thermometer falls below zero, and where there is not a certainty of snow for a covering, the Spinach should be covered up on the approach of severe weather (which is usually about the middle of Decem- ber) with hay, straw, or leaves, to the depth of two or three inches, which covering should be allowed to remain until the Spinach begins to show green through it in the spring. Spindle-shaped. Tapering to each end. like a Radish. Spindle Tree. The genus Euonymus. Spine. A stiff, sharp-pointed body, consisting of woody tissue covered with cellular tissue ; a thorn. Spinescent. Terminating in a sharp point or spine. Spinose. Furnished with spines; of a spiny character. Spirae'a. From speirao, to become spiral ; in allusion to the flexile branches being suitable for twisting into garlands. Nat. Ord. Ros- icecB. A genus of over fifty species of deciduous, hardy shrubs or herbaceous perennials,broadly dispersed over the temperate regions of the northern hemisphere. Many of the shrubby species, with white or pink flowers, make beautiful plants for the lawn or shrubbery, as they grow in almost any situation, and continue a long time in bloom. Several of our native species, as S. opulifolia (Nine Bark) and its golden-leaved variety, S. o. aurea, S. salicifolia and 8. tomentosa, are very handsome, and the various species introduced from China, Japan, etc., are exceedingly ornamental and useful as decorative plants. To assist those who wish a continuance of bloom we give a list of the most desirable species in the order of their blooming, from May to the middle of August : (1) S. prunifoliafl. pi., 8. Thunbergii, S. Nicon- derti ; (2) S. cratmgifolia, S. lanceolafa and its varieties, 8. trilobata, S. van Houttei; (3) 8. opulifolia aurea, S. crenata, S. Fontenaysii, 8. salicifolia, 8. sorbifolia, 8. Billardi; (4) S. cana, S. ariafolia, S. Japonicd var. Bumalda, and the various varieties of S. callosa. Of the herbaceous species, 8. lobata (Queen of the Prairies), one of the most stately of all the herbaceous Spiraeas, is common in meadows in Pennsylvania and south and westward. The flowers are very handsome, of a deep peach-color, produced in clustered panicles on long, naked peduncles. It is greatly improved 428 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS SPI by garden cultivation. There are many who think it finer than S. palmata, a species from Japan, and not so recent as some think it is. S. aruncm, the Goat's Beard, is a very showy species found in rich woods on the Catskill and Alleghany Mountains and westward. S. astil- boides is an exceedingly elegant species intro- duced from Japan in 1880. It differs from S. aruncus in its compact habit, smaller leaves, and shorter spikes of flowers, which are of a pure white, those of S. aruncus being greenish or creamy colored. It is perfectly hardy and may be grown to perfection in any ordinary border of deeply tilled soil. S. ulmaria, with white flowers, is the Meadow Sweet, a native of Britain. 8. Jilipendula, also white, and a native of Britain, is known as Drop Wort. S. Japonica, sometimes called Astilbe and Hoteia Japonica, and Astilba barbata, though best known here as Spircea Japonica, is the most useful of the genus. It belongs to the herba- ceous division, forms a most beautiful, hardy, border plant, about two feet in height, with branching spikes of pure white, feather-like flowers. This species is most extensively forced for winter flowers, and is one of the plants most used for decoration at the Easter holidays. Although it can be grown nearly as well here as in Europe, still, at present, the demand for it is so great that our home-grown stock has been altogether insufficient to meet the demand, and probably 100,000 roots are annually imported from England, Holland and Germany. The roots best suited for pot culture are those having a diameter of from five to six inches. These are potted in five and six-inch pots in fall, and covered up so that they do not freeze, but yet have no arti- ficial heat. A dry, sheltered spot against a south fence or wall is best ; then, covered with ten or twelve inches of leaves, they can be got at at any time during winter, and should be taken into a cool house — say an average of 45° at night — and watered sparingly until free indica- tions of growth are shown. When well rooted, and the flower stems begin to show, they will stand a higher temperature, but at no time should it be higher than 55° at night, if the best development of flower is desired. It is not very easy to say what time it takes the plant to be at its best flowering from the time it is placed in the green-house ; hence it is best to have them come in in succession. At an average of 50° at night and ten degrees higher during the day, from four to ten weeks will be required to get the plant in full development of bloom. A beautifully variegated -leaved variety of S. Japonica was introduced into the United States about 1865, from Japan, but it did not take kindly to our hot and dry climate, and has now nearly disappeared; but we believe, in the more congenial atmosphere of Britain, it makes a beautiful plant, as, added to its fine variegation, the flower spikes are more dense and compact than in the plain- leaved species. Another Spireea, sent to the United States some ten years ago from London as *H SPINACIA (SPINACH). STIPA FENNATA. 429 AND GENEKAL HORTICULTURE. 429 SPL than handsome, with large, oblong-lanceolate leaves and erect, leafless, almost rush-like, flowering stems, having the small, fragrant flowers clustered along the rigid branches in the axils of chaffy scales. It is a native of Mexico, introduced to cultivation in 1839. Spleen-wort. See Asplenium. Spo'ndias. Hog Plum. The Greek name for a kind of plum ; the fruit resembles a plum. Nat. Ord. AnacardiacecB. A genus of evergreen trees common in the tropics of both hemispheres, chiefly interest- ing for their fruits. 8. Iwtea yields an eat- able fruit, called Hog Plum in the West In- dies. The taste is said to be peculiar and not very agreeable to strangers. They are chiefly used to fatten swine. 8. dulcis, a na- tive of the Society Islands, yields a fruit the flavor of which is compared to that of the Pineapple. The flower buds of S. Mombin are used as a sweetmeat with sugar. Several of the species are esteemed for their medicinal properties, and one or two are cultivated as ornamental plants. Sponge Gourd. See Luffa. Sponge Tree. Acacia Farnesiana. Sponge "Wood, uffischynomene aspera. Spongiole, Spongelet. A term used to denote the young, tender extremity of a root, by which it was generally supposed fluid food is absorbed from the earth. It is now under- stood that the root-hairs, and not the tips of the roots, absorb the fluid nourishment that plants take in from the soil. Spoon Flower. The genus Labisia. Spoon Wood. A local name for Kalmia latir folia. Spoon-wort. The genus Cochlearia. Sporangium and Sporange. From spora, a seed, and aggeion, a vessel; the latter word is sounded as if spelled angeion. Terms used to denote the small vessels or cases in which the spores of Ferns are produced on the backs of the fronds, in the little brown dots called sori. Spore, Sporule. The reproductive body in cryptogamous plants, analogous to the seed of phsenogamous plants. Spore Case. The immediate covering of the spores of cryptogams. Sport. A bud or seed variation. Spotted Cowbane. See Cicuta maculata. Spotted Wintergreen. See Chimaphila macu- lata. Spra'guea. Named after Isaac Sprague, an American botanical draughtsman. Nat. Ord. Portulacacew. S. umbellata, the only species, is a beautiful little annual, or biennial, according to the treatment given it ; from California, allied to Claytonia. The leaves are all radical, and somewhat succulent ; the flowers are densely imbricate in spikes, several of which form a dense umbel on a leafless scape, the large sepals giving it an elegant and singular aspect. It is readily grown from seed. In- troduced 1859. Spreading. Having a gradually outward di- rection, as petals from the ovary. SQU Spreke'lia. Named after Dr. Sprekel, a Ger- man botanist. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. 8. formo8i88ima, commonly known as Amaryllis formosissima, or Jacobsean Lily, the only described species of this genus, is a bulbous plant, with splendid dark scarlet flowers. It is called Jacobsean on account of the brilliant scarlet of its flowers, which the Spaniards in Peru thought resembled the scarlet swords worn by the knights of the or- der of St. James (Jacobeeus). These bulbs succeed well planted in the open border in May. They produce their flowers in June, and the bulbs ripen off by fall, when they should be taken up and dried with the tops on, and stored in a dry room free from frost, until time for planting out again. They are desirable for pot culture, or for growing in glasses like Hyacinths, requiring the same culture, and are increased by offsets. They are natives of Guatemala, and were intro- duced in 1658. Spring Beauty. A local name for Claytonia, which see. Spring Bell. A common name for Sisyrin- chium grandiflorwm. Spring Siiowflake. See Leucojum vernum. Spruce. The popular name of the genus Abies, which see. Spru'cea. Named after Mr. Spruce, who dis- covered the plant on the shores of the Ama- zon, near the mouth of the Rio Negro. Nat. Ord. Rubiacece. A handsome, tall, bushy shrub, bearing large, yellowish, cream-colored flowers, in dense terminal panicles, with a fine scent of vanilla. It is seldom found in cultivation. Spur. A hollow tubular extension of some part of a flower, usually nectariferous ; as in the calyx of the Larkspur and the corolla of the Violet. Spurge. The genus Euphorbia. Spurge Laurel. Daphne Laureola. Spurge Nettle. A common name for Jatropha wrens. Spurge Olive. A popular name for Daphne Mezereum. Spurred Butterfly Pea. See Centrosema. Spurred Gentian. Halenia deflexa. Spurrey. The genus Spergula. Squamate, Squamose. Scaly; covered with small, scale-like leaves. Squarrose. When bodies are rough with spreading and projecting processes. Imbri- cated bracts., scales, or leaves are said to be Squarrose when their tips are pointed and very spreading or recurved. Squash. (Cucurbita melopepo.) The history of the Squash is more obscure than that of any other vegetable of equal importance in the garden. It was found in cultivation by the Indians on the Island of Nantucket by the earliest settlers ; there was, however, but one kind, the small, warted Pumpkin. From this peculiar variety the common Field Pumpkin is supposed to have originated. Several vari- eties have been introduced from South Amer- ica, and among them the Mammoth Squash from Valparaiso, the seed of which was sent here by Commodore Perry. Several other of our best sorts have been received from there 430 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS SQU and the West Indies ; their parentage, how- ever, is entirely unknown. A large number of varieties are grown under distinctive names, many of which are cross-breeds. The popular summer varieties are White and Yel- low Bush and Summer Crookneck. For fall and winter, Hubbard, Essex Hybrid, Marble- head and Mammoth Chili. Most of the win- ter varieties, if kept in a dry atmosphere at a temperature of about forty degrees, will keep until May. They require well manured ground to succeed well, with generally some special manure in the hills. For the bush sorts three to four feet apart is sufficient, but the run- ning sorts require to be from six to eight feet apart. Squaw Root. See Conopholis. Squaw Weed. Senecio awreus. Squill. See Scilla. Squill, Striped. A common name for Pusch- kinia acillioides. Squirrel Corn. See Dicentra Canadensis. Squirrel Tail Grass. See Hordeum. Squirting Cucumber. Ecballium Elaterium. Staa'via. Named after Martin Staaf, a corre- spondent of Linnaeus. Nat. Ord. Brwniacece. A genus of green-house shrubs, much re- sembling Heaths or Epacris, natives of the Cape of Good Hope. The flowers intermixed with chaffy scales are arranged in showy heads with numerous white bracts. S. glu- tinosa, the best known species, thrives best in a compost of sandy peat and loam, and is in- creased by cuttings of the young wood. Sta'chys. Hedge Nettle. From stachys, a spike ; their manner of flowering. Nat. Ord. Labi- atce. A genus of shrubby and herbaceous plants, common throughout the United States and Europe. None of the species has any special merit, except S. lanata, which is used to a considerable extent in the formation of white lines for ribbon borders or massing; it is propagated by cuttings. Stachytarphe'ta. From stachys, a spike, and tarphys, thick ; alluding to the form of the in- florescence. A genus of Verbenaceaz, consist- ing of aromatic herbs, shrubs, or sub-shrubs, natives for the most part of tropical or sub- tropical America. S. Jamaicensis is possessed of remarkable medicinal virtues, according to the Brazilians, and the leaves of this species and S. tnutabilis are used to adulterate tea, and in Austria they are sold under the name of Brazilian Tea. The shrubby sorts are easily increased by cuttings, and the annual species by seeds. Stachyu'rus. From stachys, a spike, and oura, a tail ; in allusion to the shape of the Catkins. Nat. Ord. Ternstrozmiacece. A genus consisting of only two species of half-hardy, glabrous shrubs, one being Japan- ese, the other Himalayan. S. praicox pro- duces its yellowish-green flowers in great pro- fusion before the leaves are unfolded, and is readily propagated by cuttings of the half- ripened wood. Introduced from Japan in 1864. Stadma'nnia. In honor of M. Stadmann, a German botanical traveler. Nat. Ord. Sap- indacece. A genus of lofty-growing trees, with large, showy leaves, natives of Australia. The STA species have been united with Cupania by modern botanists. Staff Tree. See Celastrus. Stage. See Table. Stagger Bush. Andromeda Mariana. Stag's Horn Fern. See Platycerium alcioorne Stag's Horn Sumach. A common name for Rhus typhina. Stalk. The stem or support to an organ, as the petiole of a leaf, the peduncle or pedicel of a flower, etc. Stamen. That organ of the flower which con- tains the pollen. Standard. The fifth petal of a papilionaceous flower. Standing Cypress. See Ipomopsis. Stange'ria. Named after William Stanger, Sur- veyor-General of Natal, who died in 1854. A remarkable genus of Cycadacem, quite distinct from any other of the order in its Fern-like foliage. S. paradoxa, the only species, a Natal plant with a thick, napiform trunk, is closely related to Encephalartos in struc- tural characters, but differs remarkably in habit and foliage. Stanho'pea. In compliment to Earl Stanhope. Nat. Ord. OrchidacexR. A very beautiful genus of epiphytal Orchids, remarkable for their extraordinary flowers, curious in form and richly colored, and also for their singular habit of throwing the flower- stem from the base of the psuedo-bulbs in a downward direction. When first introduced (1830) the plants were placed in pots in the usual manner, and were supposed to be difficult to flower, until the accidental breaking of a pot exposed the flowers perishing in the soil be- neath the plants. This circumstance led to the prevalent method of growing them in baskets made of small sticks of Cedar, Locust, or other woods not liable to decay, which, being open at intervals, allows the flower- spikes to protrude in their natural position. Baskets about a foot and a half in diameter and six inches deep are sufficiently large for well-grown specimens. The soil should be leaf-mould and sphagnum moss, about one- fourth of the latter, with small pieces of char- coal intermixed for perfect drainage. Some successful growers use only the moss and charcoal or potsherds. Stanhopeas require plenty of water while growing. The moss should be thoroughly soaked every day, and a slight syringing, or what is better, a dense application of steam every night and morning. Most of the species make two growths in a year, and with proper management, will also bloom twice ; but some care is required to have the latter growth duly formed before the winter sets in, or there is much danger of their rotting. If an active growth can be started about the first of February, the first pseudo-bulbs will be formed, and the flowers fully perfected in May, which leaves good time to complete the second flowering. A temperature of from 70° to 85° will grow them best, and for the winter, or resting period, from 55° to 60° is sufficient. They do not re- quire to be frequently shifted, but when this is done the plant should be put, basket and all, into a larger one, as it is impossible to re- move them without serious injury to the AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 431 STA roots. S. Bucephalus, S. tigrina auperba, 8. Martiana, S. grandifiora and S. Wardiana, are among the finest species of this genus. They are increased by division. Sta'nnia formosa. A native of the Caraccas, is a highly ornamental stove-house plant with white fragrant flowers three to four inches in length. The genus is now placed by many botanists under Posoqueria. Stape'lia. Named by Linnaeus after Boderus Stapel, a physician of Amsterdam and commen- tator on Theophrastus. Nat. Ord. Asclepia- dacece. This is a genus of very curious green-house plants, with showy, star-like flowers proceed- ing from the base, which smell so much like carrion that flies have been known to lay their eggs upon them. As these plants are very succulent, they are apt to damp off if they are grown in rich soil or receive too much water. They are propagated by cuttings, which should be laid on the shelf for two or three days to shrivel before they are planted. All the Stapelias are natives of the Cape of Good Hope. The flowers are very singular as well as showy, and would be highly prized were it not for their offensive odor ; but notwithstand- ing, they are very interesting plants, and the odor is of no long continuance. They were first introduced in 1710. Staphy'lea. Bladder Nut. Abridged from Staphylodendron, its ancient name, from staphyle, a bunch, and dendron, a tree ; the flowers and fruit are disposed in clusters. Nat. Ord. Sapindacece. A genus of deciduous shrubs, which are widely dispersed. One species, S. trifoliata, indigenous in the United States, is a hand- some shrub, with terminal panicles of white flowers, produced in May. S. Colchica is an excellent subject for early forcing ; plants in small pots producing a dozen or more spikes of beautiful white, fragrant flowers.which will last in perfection at least three weeks. Staphylea'ceae. A sub-order of Sapindacece. Star-Apple. The genus Chrysophyllum. Star Flower. Trientalia Americana ; the name is also applied to several species of Aster, Sternbergia and Tritelia. Star Grass. See Hypoxis. Star Hyacinth. Scilla amoena. Star of Bethlehem. See Ornithogalum. Star of Night. A common name for Clusia rosea. Star Thistle. Centaurea Calcitrapa. Star-wort. A common name for Aster and Stel- laria. Staphy'leae. A tribe of Sapindacece. Sta'tice. Sea Lavender, Marsh Rosemary. From statikos, astringent; in allusion to the powerful astringency of some of the species. Nat. Ord. Plumbaginacem. Singular plants, the foot-stalks of the flowers of which are colored so as to resemble flowers, while the real flowers are the white part at the extremity of the purple. The handsomest species belonging to the genus is S. arborea, a native of the Canaries, which is quite shrubby. This splendid plant should have plenty of room for its roots, and thus, when there is not a conservatory for it to be planted in, it STE does better in the open border with a slight protection during winter, than in a pot in a green-house. 8. macrophylla and its variety, 8. Halfordi, are exceedingly useful in the conservatory or green-house, their clear white flowers contrasting well with the deep blue bracts. They are very free flowering, and succeed well in good turfy loam with a little well- rotted cow manure and sand mixed with it. They may be increased by cuttings during the early spring months. S. Suworowi, a recent introduction from Turkestan, is a strikingly beautiful, hardy annual, with pretty lilac-colored flowers, produced in dense branched spikes. The common kinds of Statice are generally increased by seeds or by dividing the root, and they should be allowed plenty of space, as they are easily killed when crowded by other plants. S. Lim- onium, Sea Thrift, the only species that is a native of this country, is common in salt marshes along the southern coast, and is gathered in considerable quantities for making winter bouquets. Stau'ntonia. In honor of Sir George Staunton, Bart., who introduced numerous plants from China. Nat. Ord. Lardizabalacew. This genus consists of but two known species, both woody climbing shrubs, from China and Japan. The flowers are produced from the axils of the leaves, and are white and fragrant. The plants are of easy culture, but of no special interest, excepting in botan- ical collections. Staura'nthera. From stauros, a cross, and anthera, an anther ; the anthers cohere in the form of a cross. Nat. Ord. Gesneracece. A small genus of stove-house plants, natives of the East Indies and the Malayan Archipel- ago. S. grandifolia, the only species intro- duced, has very pretty flowers about an inch long, the corolla tube white, tinged with purple and pale yellow. It thrives in a mix- ture of loam and sandy peat, and is propagated by cuttings. Introduced from Moulmein in 1862. Staurosti'gma. From Stauros, a cross, and stigma, a stigma; in allusion to the cross, or star-shaped stigmas. Nat. Ord. Aroidece. A small genus of tuberous, stoloniferous, stove-house plants, natives of tropical America. Their leaves are much divided and are borne on long petioles. They require a season of rest, during which the plants should be very sparingly watered. There are over six species introduced, but they are seldom found in cultivation. Stavesacre. The acrid, emetic-purgative seeds of Delphinium Staphysagria. Steeple Bush. A common name for Spiraa tomentosa. Stella'ria. Chickweed, Star Wort. From Stella, a star; the flowers are star-like. Nat. Ord. Caryophyllacem. With the exception of S. Holostea, a pretty little white, early spring flower, this genus is a family of weeds of the most troublesome character. There are several species indige- nous in this country, all well known. 8. media, common Chickweed, is the most troublesome weed of the garden, particularly in the fall months. Stellate. Star-shaped. 432 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OP PLANTS STE Stem. The ascending axis of a plant, from which leaves, flowers and fruit are de- veloped. Stena'ctis. Probably from stene, narrow, and aktin, a sunbeam ; from the narrow and sun- like rays of the expanded flower. Nat. Ord. Composites. A small genus of erect-branched herbs, natives of North America, Northern India, etc., with showy white, violet or light pur- ple flowers. This genus is now included as a section of Erigeron. Stenanthe'ra. Prom 8tenos, narrow, and anth- era, an anther ; the filaments are broader than the anthers, which causes the latter to appear narrow. Nat. Ord. Epacridacece. A genus of two species of beautiful ever- green shrubs, both natives of Australia, with almost sessile red flowers, often crowded at the base of the branchlets. Like all other plants of this order, the roots are very fine and impatient of the application of much water, consequently ample drainage must be provided in the pots. Propagated by cuttings of the half-ripened wood. Syn. Astroloma. Ste'nia. From stenos, narrow; in allusion to the form of the pollen masses. Nat. Ord. OrchidacecB. A small genus of very handsome epiphytal Orchids, natives of New Grenada, Columbia and Peru. S.fimbriata is a very showy plant. The leaves are long, narrow and dark green ; the flowers are bright yellow, with a paler lip, beautifully spotted with carmine, and are pro- duced on slender scapes. There are one or two other species under cultivation. Propa- gated by division. Stenoca'rpus. Fire-tree or Tulip-tree of Queensland. From stenos, narrow, and karpos, fruit; the fruit being long and thin. .Nat. Ord. Proteacece. 8. Cwnninghami, a tree but rarely met, ex- cepting in botanical collections, is one of the noblest and most interesting trees in culti- vation. It is a lofty tree, producing its dark yellow or orange-colored flowers in terminal or axillary clusters, in the greatest profusion. In general appearance it resembles the ever- green Oaks. It requires considerable age be- fore it will flower in the green-house, but when that age is reached, there is no shrub or tree more prolific or beautiful. Introduced from Moreton Bay 1830. Syn. Stenocarpus and Agnostus sinuatus. Stenochi'lus. From stenos, narrow, and cheilos, a lip ; alluding to the narrow lip of the flower. Nat. Ord. Myoporaceae. A genus of green-house, evergreen Austra- lian shrubs, with alternate leaves and red, scarlet, or yellow flowers. They thrive best in a compost of sandy loam and peat, and are readily increased by cuttings. This genus is placed by Bentham and Hooker under Eremo- phila. Stenochlae'na. From stenos, narrow, and chlania, a cloak ; in reference to the arrange- ment of the sori. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. A genus of Ferns having two-formed fronds, the sterile ones pinnate, the fertile ones con- tracted, and either pinnate or bi-pinnate, borne on scandent rhizomes. They are natives principally of India and the Pacific Islands. Though very distinct looking, this genus is STE now included under Acrostichwm and Lomaria, by many botanists. Stenome'sson. From stenos, narrow, and wes- son, the middle ; the flowers contracted in the middle. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidaceoz. A genus of very pretty, half-hardy South American bulbs, with orange, scarlet and yel- low flowers, in umbels on a slender scape. The bulbs may be planted out in early spring in a moist situation, and they will soon come into flower. They are propagated by offsets and require perfect rest during winter. In- troduced from Peru in 1843. Stenorhy'nchus. A genus of terrestrial Or- chids, now included under Spiranthes. Stenota'phrum. Australian Buffalo Grass. From stenos, narrow, and taphros, a trench; referring to the cavities in the rachis in which the spikelets are seated. Nat. Ord. Gramin- aeece. A small genus of creeping, radicant grasses, inhabiting tropical regions, mostly near the sea. S. Americanum, the only species in cul- tivation, is a curious perennial grass, with flattened stems and leaves. A variegated variety has leaves two to four inches long, freely striped with creamy white, and is an excellent basket plant. It is known in culti- vation as Stephanophorvm glabrum variegatum. Stephana'ndra. From Stephanos, a crown, and aner, andros, a male ; alluding to the disposi- tion of the stamens. Nat. Ord. Rosacea. S. fiexuosa, the only described species, is a hardy, deciduous shrub, with small white flowers, in corymbose racemes or panicles, introduced from Japan in 1870. It is closely allied to the shrubby Spireas, and is propa- gated by cuttings. Stepha'nia. Named in honor of Professor F. Stephan, of Moscow. Nat. Ord. Menisperma- cecc. A small genus of climbing plants, natives of tropical Asia, Africa and Australia. The spe- cies are well worth cultivating on account of the beauty of their yellow or orange-colored flowers, which are disposed in simple or com- pound umbels. They thrive in a compost of sandy peat and loam, and are readily in- creased by cuttings. Stephano'coma. From Stephanos, a crown, and home, hair; referring to the crown-like pap- pus. Nat. Ord. Composite. S. carduoides, the only species, is a Thistle- like herb, with yellow flower-heads. Intro- duced from South Africa in 1864 ; known also as Stobcea sphmrocephala. Stephanopho'rum. See Stenotaphyrum. Stephanophy'sum. From Stephanos, a crown, and physa, a bladder ; alluding to the inflo- rescence. Nat. Ord. Acanthacem. A genus of tropical herbaceous plants, natives of Central America and Africa. The flowers are mostly scarlet, produced in axil- lary clusters. They are very rarely culti- vated. This genus is often included with Ruellia. Stephano'tis. Madagascar Chaplet Flower, Madagascar Jasmine. From stephanos,& crown, and otis, eared ; the ear-like processes on the crown of the stamens. Nat. Ord. Asclepia- dacece. These noble green-house climbers grow with great freedom when allowed sufficient AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 433 STE root room. They may either be planted in the border of the house and trained over the pillars and roof, or placed in a large pot hav- ing a good-sized trellis attached to it. In either position the effect produced by their deep green and ample, fleshy leaves, enriched by numerous clusters of pure white, waxy flowers, is, perhaps, unsurpassed. The flow- ers of S. jloribunda have a strong, delicious perfume, and are much valued by the bouquet- makers. This species was introduced from Madagascar in 1830, and is the only one gen- erally cultivated. It is much subject to the insect known as Mealy Bug, and to keep it in health this insect must be sponged off the stems and leaves as soon as it is seen. Prop- agated by seeds or cuttings. Stephenso'nia. A garden name of Phwnicopho- rium, more correctly Stevensonia. Stercu'lia. From Sterculius, a god, derived from 8tercus, dung ; the flowers and leaves of some of the species are foetid. Nat. Ord. Ster- culiacece. A genus of considerable extent, widely dis- persed through the tropics of both hemi- spheres, occurring most abundantly, however, in Asia and the Asiatic Islands, more sparing- ly in America and Africa, and rarely in Aus- tralia. Nearly all the species are trees, some- times of considerable size. The seeds or nuts of some of the species are edible. 8. wrens yields a valuable gum, and bags used for the conveyance of rice and other merchandise are made from S. villosa by soaking logs of the trunk or large branches for a few days, and then stripping off the bark entire and sewing up the bottoms. 8. rupestris, the Bottle Tree of Australia, introduced to cultivation in 1880 under the name of Delabechea rupestris, forms a pretty green-house shrub, the trunk often swelling to a large size — whence the common name. Several other species are in culti- vation and are propagated by cuttings. Sterculia'ceae. A natural order of soft-wooded herbs, shrubs, or trees, mostly natives of the warmer parts of the world. They contain an abundant mucilage combined in the old bark of the woody species, with a bitter astringent matter, and are emetics and stimulants. From the dried and split cotyledons of the seeds of Theobroma cacao, Chocolate is manufactured. To this order also belong the Baobab Tree, Adansonia digitata ; the Silk-cotton Tree, Bom- bax Ceiba ; and the Durion Tree, Durio Zebe- thinus, the fruit of which is highly esteemed. These may be named as examples of the character of the order, which contains about forty - six genera, and over five hundred species. Sterile. Barren. A male or staminate flower is commonly said to be sterile. Steripho'ma. From steriphoma, a foundation ; in allusion to the large fruit stalk. Nat. Ord. Capparidacece. A genus of shrubby plants, natives of Peru, New Grenada, Venezuela, and the Trinity Islands. The flowers are large and showy, borne in terminal racemes with thick pedun- cles. S. cleomoides (Cleome-like), the only species yet in cultivation, is well worth grow- ing for the beauty of its yellow flowers. It was introduced from Caraccas in 1823, and is STI propagated by cuttings of the young wood. Syn. Stephania. Sternbe'rgia. Mount Etna Lily. Named in honor of Count Caspar Sternberg, a celebrated German botanist. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacem. This genus is usually known as Amaryllis lutea, and is sold as such by the seedsmen. There are only a few species, and but little difference between them ; none that an ama- teur would be likely to notice. They are perfectly hardy, and flower in the autumn before the leaves start. The flowers are pure golden yellow, much like a Crocus, but larger, and the petals more fleshy. In the latitude of New York the bulbs should have a generous covering of salt hay or coarse litter before the ground freezes hard in the early winter. They are natives of the south of Europe and Africa. Introduced in 1596. Steu'dnera. Named after Dr. Steudner, of Gor- litz, a German botanist. Nat. Ord. Aroidem. A small genus of stove-house perennials, closely allied to Colocasia. S. colocasiafolia, and its variety, 8. c. discolor, are the only members of this genus yet introduced. Like many plants of the same family they require a moist, warm atmosphere when growing, and a season of rest, when water must be almost entirely withheld. They were intro- duced from Burmah in 1874, and may be in- creased by suckers, or by division of the root- stock. Stevenso'nia. Named for Governor Stevenson, at one time governor of the Island of Mauri- tius and its dependencies. Nat. Ord. Palma- cece. S. grandifolia is a synonym of the Palm described as Phcenicophorium Schellarurn. It is also known as Areca Schellarurn and Astrocaryum Borsignyanum. (See Phoznico- phorium.) Ste'via. In honor of Peter James Esteve, M.D., Professor of Botany at Valencia. Nat. Ord. Compositor. An extensive genus of green-house perennials, nearly all natives of Mexico, and chiefly white- flowered. S. compacta, early- flowering, and S. serrata are grown in large quantities by the florists of New York for cut flowers for early winter use. Prof. Gray, in " Field and Garden Botany," describes S. serrata under the name of Piqueria trinervia, stating that it is largely cultivated for winter blooming, etc. The botanical descriptions of both seem to agree, only that Piqueria, according to Gray, is an annual, and according to Nicholson, in his "Dictionary of Gardening," a perennial and hardy. The plant we have so long known as Stevia serrata is strictly perennial, and in this climate quite tender. S. serrata variegata has beautiful white and green foliage, the white predominating, and it is now used very largely as a white-leaved plant for massing. By pinching or cutting back, it can be kept at any height from one to three feet. Its flowers are equally useful as the green-leaved variety. The species are all of easy culture, and are propagated by cuttings. Stichus. A term which, used in Greek com- pounds, denotes a rank or row ; as Distichous, two-ranked. Sti'fftia. Named after A. J. Stifft, an Austrian physician. Nat. Ord. Composite. 434 HENDEKSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS STI A genus of glabrous trees or shrubs, natives of Brazil and Guiana. S. chrysantha is a showy, evergreen shrub, with orange-colored flower heads two inches in diameter. It requires a well-drained, light, airy situation, and is propagated by cuttings of the young . wood. Stigma (pi. Stigmata). That surface of a style, usually at its extremity, to which the pollen adheres when it fertilizes the ovules. Stigmaphy'llon. From stigma, a stigma, and phyllon, a leaf ; alluding to the stigmas being expanded into a sort of leaf. Nat. Ord. Mal- pighiacece. A genus of about fifty species of handsome tropical trees and shrubs. Some of the latter are climbers. They are natives of Brazil and the West Indies. A few of the species are cultivated for the sake of their fine yellow flowers and beautiful foliage. 8. ciliatum (Golden Vine) is a very free-flowering, hand- some, green-house climber, bearing clusters of beautiful, fringed, yellow, Oncidium-like flowers during the early winter months. It is freely propagated by cuttings of the ripened wood. Stigmatose. When the stigma is long, lateral, or on one side of the style. Stilli'ngia. Tallow-tree. Named after Dr. B. Stillingfleet, an English botanist. Nat. Ord. Euphorbiacece. S. sebifera, the Tallow-tree, is a native of China and the adjacent islands. This tree is highly valued for its fruits, which are about half an inch in diameter, and contain three seeds thickly covered with a fatty substance which yields the tallow. This is obtained by steaming the seeds in large caldrons, then bruising them sufficiently to loosen the fat without breaking the seeds, which are re- moved by sifting; and the fat is afterwards made into flat, circular cakes, and pressed in a wedge-press, when the pure tallow exudes in a liquid state, and soon hardens into a white, brittle mass. This tallow is very extensively used in China for candle-making. The tree yields a hard wood, used by the Chinese for printing-blocks, and its leaves are employed for dyeing black. Syn. Excaxaria. Sti'pa. Feather Grass. From stipe, feathery or silky. Nat. Ord. Graminacece. S. pennata, the species chiefly grown as an ornamental plant, is a hardy, herbaceous per- ennial, a native of Europe, and is grown for the sake of its beautifully feathered beards, which are used for winter bouquets, both in the natural color and dyed. This species is propagated by division or from seeds sown in spring. Stipe. The stalk of Ferns up to the first pin- nae ; or the stem of a Fungus. Stipules. Processes or appendages of various kinds, usually leaf-like, arising from the base of a leaf, usually from its sides ; leaf-like appendages at the base of the petiole. Stitchwort. A common name for Stellaria Holostea. Stobae'a. In honor of Dr. Stobceus of Lund, a friend of Linnaeus. Nat. Ord. Composite. A genus of thistle-like herbs, with winged, spinous branches, and spiny-toothed leaves. S. purpurea, known also as Berkhey a purpurea, STK has large flower-heads something like a Pas- sion-flower in outline, of a dull white color, tinged with purple. They are borne from within a foot of the ground to the tops of the stalks, which are over three feet high. This species and S. sphwrocephala (syn. Stephano- coma) with bright yellow flower-heads, are exceedingly showy and handsome, hardy per- ennials. Stock. Synonym for a race. A plant to which a graft or bud has been applied. A caudex, rhizome, or root-like base of a stem. Stock. Cape. A common name for the genus Heliophila. Night-scented. Mathiola tristis. Virginian. The popular name of Malcomia maritima. Stock and Stock-Gilliflower. See Matthiola. Stokes' Aster. Stokesia cyanea. Sto'kesia. In honor of Dr. Jonathan Stokes, the coadjutor of Withering in his arrangement of British plants. Nat. Ord. Composite. 8. cyanea, Stokes' Aster, the only known species, is a pretty little herbaceous, peren- nial evergreen, found rarely in the wet pine barrens of South Carolina and westward. Flowers bright blue, produced in large ter- minal heads. This beautiful late-flowering plant is now largely grown in England to supply the cut-flower market with blue flowers in autumn. It is readily increased by divi- sion or from seeds. Stole, Stolon. A sucker ; a lax trailing branch given off at the summit of the root, and taking root at intervals, whence fresh buds are developed. Stoloniferous. Bearing or propagated by stol- ons, runners, etc. Stoma, Stomata. An organic aperture in the skin of a plant, by means of which respiration is maintained, to provide for which it is always placed over a cavity in the parenchyma beneath it. Stone. A hard body found in certain fruits, which are generally known as stone-fruits, and produced by the ossification of the endo- carp, or lining of the fruit. Stone Crop. See Sedum. Stone Pine. A common name for Pinus pinea. Stool. A plant from which "layers" are prop- agated, by bending its branches into the soil, so that they may take root. Storax. See Styrax. Stork's-Bill. See Pelargonium. Stramo'nium. See Datura. Stratio'tes. Water Soldier. From stratiotes, a soldier; in allusion to its long, sword-like leaves. Nat. Ord. Hydrocharidacem. A genus of hardy aquatics. S. aloides, a native of England, is a very singular plant. It resembles our Aloes in miniature ; hence its specific name. It is attached to the mud by a cord-like runner, or is suspended free in the water, elevating only its flowers and a portion of its leaves above the surface. It increases very fast, and will grow freely in the aqua- rium. It increases too fast for small ponds, as it will soon choke out all other plants. Strava'dium. From tsgeria samstravadi, the Malabar name of one of the species. Nat. Ord. Myrtacem. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 435 STR A genus of ornamental trees, natives of Polynesia and the East Indies. Their showy red or white flowers are borne in very long pendulous racemes. The genus is now in- cluded by Bentham and Hooker under Bar- ringtonia. Strawberry. See Fragaria. Strawberries will grow on almost any soil, but it is all-impor- tant that it be well drained, either naturally or artificially ; in fact, this is true for the well- being of nearly all plants, as few plants do well on soils where the water does not freely pass off. Thorough culture requires that the soil should be first dug or plowed, then spread over with at least three inches of thoroughly rotted stable manure, which should be dug or plowed under, so far as practicable, to mix it with the soil. If stable manure cannot be had, artificial manure, such as ground bone dust, etc., should be sown on the dug or plowed ground, thick enough to nearly cover it, then harrowed or chopped in with a fork, so that it is well mixed with the soil to at least six inches in depth. This, then, is the preliminary work before planting, to insure a crop the next season after planting — in nine or ten months. The plants must be such as are layered in pots, and the sooner they are planted out after the 15th of July, the better, although, if not then convenient, they will produce a crop the next season even if planted as late as the middle of September ; but the sooner they are planted the larger will be the crop. They may be set from pot layers either in beds of four rows each, fifteen inches apart, and fifteen inches between the plants, leaving two feet between the beds for path- way ; or be set out in rows two feet apart, the plants in the rows fifteen inches apart ; and if the plants are properly set out (care being taken to firm the soil around the plant, which is best done by pressing the soil against each plant with the foot), not one plant in a thou- sand of Strawberry plants that have been grown in pots will fail to grow. For the first three or four weeks after planting nothing need be done except to hoe the beds, so that all weeds are kept down. Be careful to do this once in every ten days ; for if the weeds once get a start, it will treble the labor of keeping the ground clean. In about a month after planting they will begin to throw out runners, all of which must be pinched or cut off as they appear, so that by the end of the grow- ing season (1st of November) each plant will have formed a complete bush one foot or more In diameter, having the necessary matured " crowns " for next June's fruit. By the mid- dle of December the entire beds of Strawberry plants should be covered up with salt-meadow hay (straw, leaves or anything similar will do as well) to the depth of two or three inches, entirely covering up the plants and soil, so that nothing is seen but the hay. By April the plants so protected will show indications of growth, when the hay around each plant is pushed a little aside, to assist it in getting through the covering, so that by May the fully developed plant shows on the clean surface of the hay. This "mulching, " as it is called, is indispensable to the best culture, as it pro- tects the plants from cold in winter, keeps the fruit clean, keeps the roots cool by shading them from the hot sun in June, and, at the same time, saves nearly all further labor after STR being once put on, as few weeds can push through it. By this method we prefer to plant new beds every year, though, If desired, the beds once planted may be fruited for two or three years, as by the old plans ; but the fruit the first season will always be the largest in size, if not greatest in number. Another advan- tage of this system is that, where space is lim- ited, there is quite time enough to get a crop of Potatoes, Peas, Beans, Lettuce, Radishes, or, in fact, any summer crop off the ground first before planting the Strawberries, thus taking two crops from the ground in one year, if desired, and there is also plenty of time to crop the ground with Cabbage, Cauliflower, Celery, or other fall crop after the crop of Strawberries has been gathered. The plan of getting the pot layers of Strawberries is very simple. Just as soon as the fruit is gathered, if the beds are well forked up between the rows, the runners or young plants will begin to grow, and in two weeks will be fit to layer in pots. The pots, which should be from two to three inches in diameter, are filled with the soil in which the Strawberries are growing, and "plunged" or sunk to the level of the surface ; the Strawberry layer is then laid on the pot, being held in place with a small stone. The stone not ouly serves to keep the plant in its place so that its roots will strike into the pot, but it also serves to mark where each pot is ; for, being sunk to the level of the surface, rains wash the soil around the pots, so that they could not well be seen un- less marked by the stone. In ten or twelve days after the Strawberry layers have been put down the pots will be filled with roots. They are then cut from the parent plant, placed closely together, and shaded and watered for a few days before being planted out. Some plant them out at once when taken up, but, unless the weather is very suitable, some loss may occur by this method ; by the other plan, however, of hardening them for a few days, not one in a thousand will fail. Straw- berries for field culture are usually planted from the ordinary layers, either in August and September in the fall, or in March, April or May in the spring. They are usually planted in rows, two to three feet apart, and nine to twelve inches between the plants. In plant- ing, every plant should be well firmed, or great loss is almost certain to ensue, as the Strawberry is a plant always difficult to trans- plant. They are usually worked by a horse- cultivator, and generally two or three crops are taken before the beds are plowed under ; but the first crop given (which is in the second year after planting) is always the best. The same care must be taken as in planting by pot layers, the ground must be kept clear of weeds, and the runners pinched or cut off to make fruiting crowns. By the usual field method of culture, it will be seen that there is a loss of one season in about three ; for in the year of planting no fruit, of course, is pro- duced, and for this reason we incline to the belief that, if a portion were set aside to pro- duce early plants, so that pot layers could be set out by the 15th of July, a full crop of the finest fruit could be had every season, and with less cost, we think ; for the only labor after planting is to keep the ground clean and pinch off the runners from July to Octo- ber, with the certainty of getting a full crop 436 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS STR next June, or in less than a year from the time of planting, while by planting by ordi- nary layers, if planted in August, we have three months of fall culture, and six or seven months of the next summer's culture, before a crop is produced. Again, if the crop is con- tinued to fruit the second or third year, every one who has had experience with the nature of the plant knows that the labor of keeping the plants free from weeds is enormous; while by the pot-layering method of taking a fresh crop each year, all such labor is dis- pensed with. It is useless to name any special varieties of the Strawberry as best to culti- vate. We have now thousands under culti- vation, and such kinds as we might now name as the best will, a few years hence, be super- seded. It is best to select from the annual catalogues of some responsible nurseryman or florist, where descriptions are usually fully given. Strawberries. Fobcing. In response to a re- quest to John G. Gardner, of Jobstown, N. J. (who is one of the most successful growers of forced Strawberries), for his system and prac- tice, he sends the following, under date of December 19th, 1888 : "In giving you in detail the system of * Forcing Strawberries ' as practiced at Jobs- town, I would first say that those who wish to force Strawberries should make themselves thoroughly familiar with the natural condi- tions of the plants, making a close examina- tion of the construction of the perfect flowers, the calyx, corolla, stamens, and pistils, form- ing, as they do, in periods successively as named above ; noting the atmospheric influ- ences under which they develop to fulfill the part nature has ordained for them. The oper- ator having taken his observations closely, will have one of the principal points in forcing Strawberries at hand ; knowing how the com- plicated parts of a perfect Strawberry flower are formed under natural conditions, he will be able to provide artificial means under glass, to produce healthy flowers. "My best results have been from good, strong plants, layered from one year old plants, as early as it is possible to get them, which is about the 20th of June, in this section. The runners are layered in three-inch pots, partially filled with well-rotted manure, filled up with good soil, and plunged level with the ground, the point of the runner being slightly inserted in the soil, and fastened down with a crook of bent wire, and the soil kept moist by watering ; good healthy runners will be ready to shift into fruiting pots in two weeks. I never take more than two layers from one runner. For fruiting I use six-inch pots, give good drain- age, and pot firmly in two parts of good loam to one of rotted manure, one plant in a pot, placing them when potted close together in an open spot upon an even surface of coal ashes. After being potted three weeks, and having made good growth, I place them six inches apart, and remove all runners that show. When the pots have become full of roots, liquid ma- nure is given twice a week, and abundance of water is given at all times while they are mak- ing their growth, and after every hot day they are sprinkled overhead with water. By the mid- dle of September the plants will have formed good plump centres, or crowns, and the foliage from the centre will be diminishing in size ; all STR that is necessary at this stage is to keep them, well supplied with water, as the pots being full of roots they will dry out quickly. Under favorable circumstances, by the middle of October, the plants in this section will have ceased to make growth, and the cool nights will have helped to form flower buds in well matured and plump crowns. Some seasons are much more favorable than others, as, for instance, when we get a cool fall, with rains and slight frosts, the growth is checked, and the development of the scale-like forms in the centre of the crowns becomes much more rapid, and takes on the form of flower-buds. Plants with single crowns are the best to select for very early berries for Christmas and New Year's. The operator, after making his selection, must sacrifice a few plants, cut- ting them clear through the centre of the crowns with a sharp knife, to make an exami- nation of the flower-buds. If, by the 15th of October, they are the size of a small pea, it will be an easy matter to force them for Christ- mas, but if, on the other hand, the flower-buds are no larger than the head of a pin, then the process of forcing must be cooler and slower. My treatment of plants in the former stage — with well-advanced flower-buds — is to re- move a few of the lower leaves, taking care not to damage the centre of the plants, and dip each plant in a solution of whale oil, soap, sulphur and tobacco water, to clear them of Red Spider, which is the worst enemy of the Strawberry forcer, oftentimes gaining such headway during the flowering season — at which time the air has to be kept perfectly dry — that the whole crop is ruined. The pots are placed upon shelves or benches not farther than two feet from the glass. In front of the outside row of pots which is exposed to the full sun, a board about six inches wide is placed on edge to prevent the roots from getting scalded, and the pots from drying out too rapidly. The foliage is sprinkled over with the syringe every clear morning, and a free circulation of air is given ; but the house is partially closed during the afternoon, and a. moist atmosphere, at a temperature of 55° to 60° is maintained until sundown. Air is their given freely to reduce the temperature to 45^ at night, as nearly as possible, as a high night temperature has a tendency to push the foliage ahead of the flower-buds. In dull days a temperature of 50° is maintained. By the time the flower-buds appear above the crown of the plants, a night temperature of 50° may be kept and continued until the crop is set. The day temperature, when in flower, must not exceed 55°, with a free circulation of air and the atmosphere perfectly dry, care being taken not to slop water around when watering the plants. These conditions must be kept up for two weeks to make a perfect set of well- formed fruit. The receptacle which becomes the fruit will not be hurried, and the pistils will not mature to receive the pollen under a- warm damp air. The operator must be sure that the varieties he forces are good pollen- bearing sorts, and if a pistiliferous variety, some other kinds which have plenty of stamens must be forced with it. Sharpless is one of the best. To make sure of a good set of per- fect fruit, I use bees as fertilizing agents, setting the hives in the houses on the benches or floors, keeping the mouth of the hive from ~iS'V^s- STRAWBERRY (MAY KIN(i). STRAWBERRY (LAYERING IN POTS). STRAWBERRY FORCING HOUSE. STRAWBERRY (SHABPLESS). STRAWBERRY (CRIMSON CLUSTER). STRAWBERRY (PARRY). J3TB.EPT0S0LEN JAMESONI. SYMPHYTUM AbPEKBIMUM KTATIl'E BONPCKLLI. !i yw^^^f^^^ : - STUAKTIA VIEGrNICA. STATICE INCANA HTBRIUA. 43? AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 437 STR four to six feet from the glass, so as to give the bees a chance to fly straight out without striking the glass. I place the hives where "the sun will strike them, and the bees will soon come out when the sun shines, which is just the proper time, as, when the air is dry, the pollen will move more freely. After the bees have been in the house a few days they become accustomed to the glass, and work splendidly. I find them the best help in fertilizing any fruits that I force, using the same bees to set the early Nectarines, Peaches, ■Cucumbers, etc. Unfortunately they are of no assistance with the Tomato, which they will not touch, and which have to be gone over every day and given a sharp knock with •a padded stick to start the pollen. I do not, however, use the same hive two years in suc- cession, for, as the hives are introduced during December and remain in until April, the crop of young bees hatch out, fly against the glass or get into the dew on the foliage, many get killed, and thus weaken the hive. If only used for one crop it would not hurt them one particle, if, when through with them, they are put outside again. Many use a camel's hair brush for fertilization, and if it is carefully * used, it is very successful. Great care, how- - ■ever, must be taken to regulate the pressure during the operation, and to see that the brush does not get clogged up and stiff with the pollen, in which case the pistil and recep- . tacle would be damaged, and deformed fruit the result. I have used bees, and nothing else, for the last eight years, and can always . depend on a good set of perfect fruit. After eight good berries have formed, I clip off the remaining flowers, at the same time support- ing the fruit stems and holding back the foliage with bent wire or birch twigs, to give the berries the full benefit of the sun and light. The temperature may now be gradually raised to 65° and 70° with sun-heat, great care being taken not to let the plants suffer for water until they commence to color, and then it must be partially withheld, only giving enough to keep the foliage from wilting. The best time to gather the fruit is in the early morn- ing. The finishing and ripening of Straw- berries during the months of January and Eebruary, is a difficult task, as at times we get a whole week of bad weather, sunless and wet days, when it may happen that you have a batch of plants just coloring their fruit. Many good houses of Strawberries have been lost at this stage from rotting, and to make safe against this, a cement floor is necessary — as I have here at Jobstown— thus preventing the dampness that would naturally arise from an earthen floor. I also use charcoal and lime in very dull, rainy weather, having crates of charcoal twenty by twenty-four inches and six inches deep, which I place throughout the house, and place pieces of charcoal on the tops of the pots. The lime is laid around on the floor, and by these agents I have brought a crop of berries through in February when we had only seventeen hours of sunshine in a • week. Growing, as I do, 10,000 to 14,000 plants in pots every year, it would be a great cost of - labor to store them as recommended by some growers. What I do here is to leave them where they have grown (outside), placing two or three inches of Oak leaves upon them the last week in November, or earlier if we get STR severe frosts, covering all with rye straw only enough to keep the leaves from blowing off. As plants with a few healthy green leaves when taken in for forcing give the best results, I try to strike a thaw or rain for this operation, when the pots will easily let loose from the frozen earth below, allow the Oak leaves to remain upon each plant, and placing them in cold frames allow them to thaw out in perfect darkness. When thawed out the leaves are removed, and the plants are prepared for the forcing-house as described above. "With regard to recommending varieties for forcing, I cannot with safety do so, as circumstances must be considered. I am situ- ated on a light sandy soil, while others will have clay to deal with. I have had the best results from those varieties that grow most freely with me in the garden. Keen's seedling and Sir Charles Napier, two imported sorts, I have forced in good form, and the Keen's seedling the earliest of all — but in dry, hot summers I could not get growth enough on this variety to produce strong, healthy runners. In heavy soils the result might be better. The variety I have found to stand best in our soil is the Sharpless, and force it for the main crop, and also use it as a pollen-bearing sort. Cum- berland Triumph has done well here, as has also the Parry, but the berry of the latter is soft, and is a bad shipper. Seth Boyden and Triomphe de Gand have also done well, and Champion has proved a good early variety. I have made trials of some of the newer sorts, not enough, however, to give an opinion as yet ; but one thing is certain, if you cannot get a good healthy growth on the plants out of doors, you cannot get plants from them in proper condition to force, so that whatever variety the operator selects, he must be sure of a healthy growth from which to secure his layers. I change my stock from farther north every two years." Strawberry-Bush. A common name for Euony- mus Americanu8. Strawberry Geranium. See Saxifraga. Strawberry Shrub. See Calycanthus floridvs. Strawberry Spinach. Blitum capitatum. Strawberry Tomato. See Physalis Alkekengi. Strawberry Tree. See Arbutus. Streli'tzia. Bird of Paradise Flower. Named in honor of the Queen of George III., Char- lotte of Mecklenburgh-Strelitz. Nat. Ord. Scitaminece. These are handsome plants, with large, pale-green leaves and singular, richly-colored flowers. S. Regince is the most common, and perhaps the most beautiful ; its flowers are brilliant orange and purple. It is usual to grow the species as hot-house plants, but they succeed almost equally well in the green- house, placed in large pots of rich loam and kept in a light part of the house at all times, except between the months of June and September, when they thrive best out of doors. They will thus grow and flower finely. S. Nicolai is a splendid arborescent species, long cultivated in European gardens, and, until 1858, when it flowered at St. Petersburg, confounded with another South African spe- cies, S. Augusta. The geographical range of the latter, and the exact locality where the former species grows spontaneously, are still 438 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OP PLANTS STR unknown. The species are all natives of the Cape of Good Hope, and were first introduced in 1773. Propagation is slow, and is effected by suckers, or from seed when it can be ob- tained. Strepta'nthera. From streptos, twisted, and anthera, an anther: alluding to the shape of the anthers. Nat. Ord. Iridaceoz. A small genus (two species) of dwarf, bulb- pus, green-house plants ; natives of South Africa. The species are very pretty when in flower, and are increased by offsets. Strepta'nthus. From streptos, twisted, and anthos, a flower ; alluding to the twisted claws of the petals in some of the species. Nat. Ord. Cruciferce. A genus of hardy, glabrous, annual or per- ennial herbs, natives of western North Amer- ica. Two species, S. hyacinthoides and S. ma- culatus, both annuals, have been introduced ; they grow from one foot to three feet in height, and when in bloom their deep purple or shaded flowers are very beautiful. Streptoca'rpus. Cape Primrose. From strep- tos, twisted, and carpos, a fruit ; referring to its long, twisted seed-pods. Nat. Ord. Ges- leracece. Very neat and pretty dwarf plants with vel- vety leaves and lilac flowers, produced freely all the summer. They may be grown in the green-house, or used as bedding plants for the open border, where, in a warm situation, they will produce a multitude of flowers. They will bear almost any treatment, but do best in pots of light, sandy soil, with plenty of heat in the early stages of growth, say from March to May, after which a cool house or the open air will preserve their flowers for a long time, and, being produced in rapid suc- cession, the plants will be quite ornamental for at least four or five months. They are all interesting plants, and should have rest during winter, like other green-house, herba- ceous perennials. They were first introduced from Natal in 1854, and are propagated by di- vision or by seeds. Stre'ptopus. From streptos, twisted, and pons, a foot or stalk; alluding to the peduncles, which are abruptly bent near the middle. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. A genus of perennial, herbaceous plants, na- tives of Europe, Asia and North America. Three or four of the species are in cultiva- tion, and are interesting plants of easy man- agement. Propagated by seeds or division. Streptoso'len. From streptos, twisted, and solen, a tube; referring to the form of the corolla-tube. The only species, 8. Jamesonii (known also as Browallia Jamesonii), is a very handsome, green-house, evergreen shrub in- troduced from Columbia in 1847. It bears its exceedingly showy, bright orange - colored flowers in large, terminal panicles, and is of easy culture ; propagated by cuttings. Striate. Marked with fine longitudinal lines, or diminutive grooves or ridges. Strict. Very straight and upright. Strigose. Covered with sharp, close-pressed, rigid hairs. Stringy Bark Tree. A name given to several species of Eucalyptus. STR Striped Squill. A common name for Pusch- kinia scilloides. Strobila'nthes. From strobilus, a cone, and anthos, a flower ; alluding to the form of the inflorescence. A large genus of Acanthaceoe, comprising herbs and shrubs, scattered over tropical Asia and Africa, having blue, violet, or white flowers and generally opposite leaves. A number of the species are very beautiful, showy, green-house plants of easy culture, and merit a place in every collection. They are best known in cultivation as Goldfussias, and are all easily increased by cuttings. Strobile, Strobilus. From strobilos, a Fir-cone. A scaly fruit composed chiefly of a number of bracts that overlap each other like the slates on a roof. Lindley defines it as " an imbri- cated, scaly infloresence ; a collection of hard scales representing distinct flowers, arranged spirally but closely imbricated." The word Cone is employed with almost the same mean- ing as Strobile, though in general almost re- stricted to the fruits of the Coniferce, while the latter word also includes the fruits of the Hop and of a few other plants. Stroma'nthe. From Stroma, a couch, and an- thos, a flower ; alluding to the form of the in- florescence. Nat. Ord. Scitaminece. A small genus of handsome, stove, perennial plants, natives of the East Indies and Brazil. One of the most useful decorative plants. 8. sanguinea is better known in green-houses as. Maranta or Phrynium sanguineum. Stropha'nthus. The name derived from the Greek, strophos, a twisted cord or rope, and anthos, a flower ; is expressive of the chief peculiarity of the flowers in this genus of Apocynacece, which comprises about eighteen species of shrubs or small trees, some of which are climbing. They are natives of tropical Asia and Africa. Several of the species are cultivated for the pretty appearance and singularity of their flowers. They are of easy management and are increased by cuttings. Struma. A cushion-like swelling. Struma'ria. From struma, a tubercle, the style is swollen in the middle. Nat. Ord. Amarylli- dacea. A small genus of interesting bulbs from the Cape of Good Hope. The flowers are red, white or pink, somewhat resembling the Nerine, to which this genus is allied. They are of dwarf habit, well adapted for green- house culture, and succeed with but little care, the main requisite being to secure a good growth of foliage after flowering, as the flowers for the coming season will correspond in size and strength to the growth of leaves. They were first introduced in 1812, and are propagated by offsets. Stru'thiola. From Struthion, a little sparrow ; alluding to the resemblance of the seeds to a beak. Nat. Ord. Thymelacece. A genus of about twenty species of pretty, heath-like, green-house shrubs, natives of South Africa. Several species are in cultiva- tion, of which S. erecta, with white, and S. virgata, with pink flowers, are the most desir- able. They are easily increased by cuttings of the half-ripened shoots. Struthio'pteris. From struthios, an ostrich, and pteris, a fern ; resemblance of the leaves AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 439 STR or fronds to its feathers. Nat. Ord. Polypo- diacece. A small genus of hardy Ferns, with strong, erect-growing fronds. S. Germanica, popu- larly known as the Ostrich Fern, is common in most of the Northern States. The species are also to be found in India and Japan. Pro- fessor Gray makes S. Pennsylvanica, Willd., and Onoclea Struthiopteris, L., synonymous with 8- Oermanica. Strychnine Plant. The common name of Strychnos Nux-vomica. Stry'chnos. Nux Vomica. The Greek name of the Solanum. Nat. Ord. Loganiacem. A small genus of evergreen trees, natives of the East Indies. S. Nux-vomica is well known from the seeds that bear that name, and which contain an active principle called Strychnia, a virulent poison. This species is a tree of moderate size, much branched, and covered with dark gray, smooth bark. The flowers are small, bell-shaped and nearly white. The tree has nothing of special inter- est, if we except its power for evil. The seeds of S. potatorum show a marked contrast to the preceding. They are an important article of merchandise in the Indian bazaars, being sold for the purpose of clearing muddy water, the vessels containing the water being rubbed for a minute or two round the inside with one of the seeds; after which, by allowing the water to settle for a short time, however im- pure and muddy it may have been before, it becomes clear and wholesome. £>tua'rtia. Named after John Stuart, Marquis of Bute. Nat. Ord. Ternstromiaceai. A genus of very beautiful, hardy, deciduous shrubs, allied to the Camellia. It consists of three species, two of which, S. Virginica and S. pentagyna, are indigenous, being found from Virginia southward, while S. pseudo Ca- mellia is a Japanese species of recent intro- duction. The commonest and best known species is S. Virginica, which, when fully grown, is a handsomely shaped bush, of rounded and spreading growth, and reaching from six to ten feet high. Its flowers are like a single Rose, about three inches across, the petals of which are of a soft creamy-white, surrounding a tuft of deep crimson stamens — a charming contrast to the pale green foliage. S. pentagyna (syn. Malachodendron ovatum) is a rather larger and taller growing shrub, but its flowers are very similar. S. pseudo-Ca- mellia (syn. S. grandiflora) resembles the other two in growth, foliage and habit, but its flow- ers are larger, whiter, and have the stamens yellow instead of red. They are beautiful shrubs when in bloom, and merit a place ..in every collection of ornamental shrubs. Prop- agation may be effected by layering or by cuttings. Stub-wort. An old name for Oxalis Acetosella. Style. The part which bears the stigma; its use is to support the stigma in such a position as to favor polination. Stylidia'ceae. A small natural order of herbs or under shrubs, chiefly Australian, with a few species from New Zealand, the Straits of Magellan and tropical Asia. It is divided into four genera, and contains nearly one hundred species, of which Stylidium itself contains the great majority. STY Styli'dium. From stylos, a column ; the sta- mens and style are joined into a column. Nat. Ord. Stylidiaceae,. A genus of evergreen and herbaceous plants from New Holland. They are all neat little green-house plants, each of the numerous stems producing a copiously-filled spike of small rose-colored flowers. They should be cut down annually after flowering, and re- quire some care to preserve them free from mildew through the damp weather of winter. A light, airy shelf is the best preventive, and a sprinkling of sulphur on the affected parts will generally remove it. They were first introduced in 1824, and are propagated by seeds, and the shrubby kinds by cuttings of the young shoots. Stylo'phorum. From stylos, a style, and phero, I bear ; indicating one of the distinctive charac- ters. Nat. Ord. Papaveracece. A genus of hardy plants with perennial rhizomes, and yellow juice, one being indige- nous, and the others found in India and Japan. S. Japonicum, a slender-growing plant, about a foot high, with yellow, Poppy-like flowers, introduced from Japan in 1840, is a very pretty species, and may be increased by seeds or by division. S. diphyllum, from western North America, much resembles it ; so much so that Robinson, in his "English Flower Garden," mentions them as identical. Stylosa'nthes. Pencil Flower. From stylos, a style, and anthos, a flower; alluding to the very long style. A genus comprising about fifteen species of uninteresting herbaceous plants, natives of Asia, Africa, North America and Brazil. They are seldom cultivated except in botanical collections. Stypa'ndra. From stype, tow, and aner, andros, an anther ; alluding to the downy appearance of the stamens. Nat. Ord. Liliacem. A small genus of half-hardy, perennial herbs, with fibrous roots, natives of Australia. The blue flowers are borne in a loose terminal cyme, and the species will grow well in a cool green-house or frame, if protected in severe weather. They succeed best in a sandy loam, and are increased by division. Styphe'lia. From styphe.los, hard ; referring to the wood. Nat. Ord. Epacridacece. A genus of green-house, evergreen shrubs, harsh, erect, and low-growing. They have usually pink or scarlet flowers, axillary and drooping. S. tubiflora and a few other of the species are very beautiful plants, their showy flowers completely covering the stems, and remaining several weeks in perfection. They should be grown and propagated like the Epacris. Styraca'ceee. A natural order of trees or shrubs, mostly natives of the warmer parts of Aus- tralia, Asia and America, though a few species are indigenous. The two principal genera, Symplocos and Styrax, are considered by some botanists as types of two distinct orders, but are more generally regarded as tribes only of Styracacete. The two balsams, Storax and Benzoin, are derived respectively from S. offi- cinalis and S. Benzoin. Several of the species are employed as tea and for dyeing yellow in the Himalayas. There are seven genera in the order, and over two hundred species. Among the smaller genera, Halesia, or the Snow-drop Tree, is the only one of general interest. 440 HENDEBSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS STY Sty'rax. Storax. From the Arabic. Nat. Ord. StyracacecB. A genus of handsome, flowering, hcjrdy, deciduous shrubs and low-growing trees, well adapted for the shrubbery border. Several of the species are common on the margins of swamps from Virginia southward. The most important species is S. Benzoin, a native of Borneo and Sumatra. It yields the resin called Benzoin, which is employed medicinally, and also in the manufacture of perfumes. It is used in the Boman Catholic churches in the composition of incense. S. officinale, a native of the Levant, yields a balsamic resin called Storax. Among some of the species of recent introduction is S. serrulala (syn. S. Japonica), known, from its white Giant Snow-drop-like blossoms, as "Snow-flake Flower." It is a shrub growing about four feet in height, blooming about mid-summer, and is hardy in the vicinity of New York. S. Obassia is one of the most attractive of the many hardy shrubs introduced within late years from Japan, where it is a native of the southern mountains of Kiusiu and Sikok. Siebold, who discovered it in Japan, attributes to it no other property but its scent of Hyacinth. The hardiness of this very ornamental shrub, or small tree, in our Northern States has not been entirely established yet. All are propa- gated freely from cuttings. Sub. As a prefix; about, nearly, somewhat; as Sub-cordate, slightly cordate ; Sub-rotund, roundish ; Sub-axillary, just beneath the axil, etc. Suberose. Corky in texture. Subsoiling. This is indispensable to the best culture, either in the garden or on the farm. On soils having a clayey or hard-pan subsoil, the subsoil plow should be used at least every two years. It accomplishes the work of loosening and pulverizing, and thus admitting air to a depth of eighteen or twenty inches, or twice the usual depth turned up by the sur- face plow. In our own practice in our stiff clay soil, we use it nearly every alternate year. The subsoiler now used stirs, loosens and pulverizes the soil, but does not in- vert it, following immediately behind in the furrow made by the surface plow, of course, or the necessary depth could not be attained. The implement is made for one and two horses. On light sandy subsoils the one- horse size is sufficient, but for clay or hard- pan two powerful horses are necessary to get to the proper depth (see Plowing). When sub- soiling is done by the spade it is called trenching (which see). Sub-species. A term given to a rank lower than that of Species, but higher than that of Variety. Sub-Tropical Garden. This term is applied to a portion of a lawn or flower-garden devoted during summer to plants arranged with the design of representing tropical vegetation. As many of the plants used are natives of tropical countries, they are only available during the warmest part of the season, but there are others of tropical aspect which are hardy, that are only valuable for associating with their more tender brethren. Next to location, the most important provision for such a garden, is shelter, as many of the most useful subjects would have their leaves torn SUG and disfigured if subjected to high winds. Shade and moisture are also necessary for many Tree and other Ferns, Cycads and Palms. If the size of the garden will allow it, per- haps the best effect is accomplished by group- ing the various plants, rather than planting them promiscuously, but individual taste must regulate design in arrangement. Many useful plants may readily be raised from seed each spring and planted out in rich soil about the first of June. Of these the various spe- cies of Ricinus, Solanums, Nicotianas, Albizzia (Acacia) lophantha, Wigandias, and varieties of Zea, are especially valuable, and as they are all rapid growers they make large specimens before autumn. Plants of Ailantus glandu- losus, and Catalpa bignonioides, cut close down every spring are excellent subjects either for massing, or for single specimens. The vari- ous sorts of Cannas are indispensable for groups, or as solitary specimens Colocasias, Amorphophallus and any of the Arum family are all desirable. The most serviceable amongst Palms are Livistona australis, L. chinensis, Phoenix dactylifera, Ptychosperma Cunningham- iana (syn. Seaforthea elegans), Chamoerops hu- milis, C. excelsa and C. Fortunei. Cycas circin- alis and C. revoluia, Musa Ensete, and M. superba, are noble plants for this purpose, the Tree Ferns, Alsophila australis and A. excelsa, Cyathea dealbata, Dicksonia antartica, etc., may also be placed in sheltered and shady places with good effect. The various Arundos, Arundi- narias, Bambusas, Dracaenas, Cordylines, Ery- thrinas, Aralias, Phormiums, Gynerium, Eula- lias, Ficus, etc., can also be used to excellent advantage. Subulate, Subuliform. Awl-shaped; linear, tapering from a broadish base to a fine point ; a long, narrow triangle. Succise. Abruptly cut or broken off, or appear- ing to be so. Succulent. Very juicy or pulpy. Succulent Plants. Plants possessing thick, fleshy leaves, including numerous genera, very varied in habit. They are generally plants requiring protection, especially in win- ter, though a few are perfectly hardy. The natural orders Caclacece and Ficoideae include a large number of Succulents, many being exceedingly curious, and others very beauti- ful. For carpet-bedding purposes many of the dwarf-growing species are invaluable, and are used in large numbers, more especially various species of Sedum, Sempervivum,Agave, Aloe, Cotyledon, Echeveria, Crassula, Opuntia, Mesembryanthemum, etc. Succory. Another name for Chicory. See Cir chorium. Sucker. A shoot thrown up by a plant from beneath the surface of the ground. Sudorific. Having the power of causing per- spiration. Suffruticose. Half -shrubby ; having a some- what shrubby habit. Sugar Beet. See Beta. Sugar Berry. The fruit of Celtis occidental**, which see. Sugar Bush. A common name for Protea meU lifera. Sugar Cane. See Saccharum officinarwm. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 441 SUG Sugar Pea. A name given to edible-podded Peas. Sugar Pine. Pinus Lambertiana. Sulcate. Grooved longitudinally with deep fur- rows. Sultan. Sweet. Centaurea moschata. Sultan. Yellow. Centaurea suaveolens. Sumach. See Rhus. Summer Savory. See Satureia hortensis. Summer Snowflake. See Leucqjum oestivum. Sundew. See Drosera. Sundrops. A name given to Oenothera fruti- cosa. Sunflower. See Helianthus. Sun Plant. A popular name for Portulaca grandiflora, and other species. Sun Rose. See Helianthemum. Sunshine Plant. Australian. Acacia discolor. Superior. Growing above anything. An ovary is superior when it grows above the origin of the calyx. Supine. Lying flat, with face upwards. Supple-Jack. See Berchemia. Supra. Above, or upon anything ; as supra-ax- illary, growing above an axil ; supra-foliace- ous, growing above a leaf. Supra-Decompound. Many times compound; so much divided that the number and mode of division cannot be precisely ascertained, as the leaves of the Fennel, Carrot, etc. Surculose. Producing suckers, or shoots re- sembling them. Sutherla'ndia. Named in honor of James Suth- erland, one of the first superintendents of the Royal Botanical Garden, at Edinburgh, and author of a botanical catalogue, 1683. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. Very showy, half-hardy, evergreen shrubs, producing freely during summer axillary clus- ters of scarlet flowers. The plants are too large for ordinary green-house culture, and do not repay the cost of winter protection in the border. S. frutescens, the Bladder Senna of the Cape, bears bright red flowers in axillary racemes. It was introduced in 1683, and is often found under the name of Colutea frutes- cens. Suture. The line of junction of contiguous parts grown together. Sutural dehiscence is the act of splitting along the line of junction of two valves. Swainso'nia. In honor of Isaac Swainson, a celebrated cultivator of plants about the end of the last century. Nat. Ord. Leguminosaz. A genus of over twenty species closely resembling Sutherlandia. It is, however, better adapted for pot culture in the green-house, in which case the young wood should be fre- quently cut back in spring ; and after flower- ing, the stems should be cut down to prevent the plants from becoming straggling and unsightly. There are several species under cultivation, having purple, red, or white flow- ers, produced singly in pairs on short axillary peduncles. Of S. galegifolia, the best known species, there are several varieties in culti- vation, all desirable sorts. It was first intro- duced in 1800, under the name of Colutea ga- SWE legifolia, and is easily increased by cuttings or by seeds. Swallow-Wort. A name given to the genera Asclepias and Chelidonium. Swamp Dogwood. Ptelea trifoliata. Swamp Hickory. Carya amara. Swamp Honeysuckle. Azalea viscosa. Swamp Rose Mallow. Hibiscus Moscheutos. Swamp Sassafras or Laurel. See Magnolia glauca. Swan River Daisy. See Brachycome. Swa'rtzia. Named in honor of Olaf Swartz, M.D., of Stockholm, a long time resident of the West Indies and author of " Flora Indira Occidentalis." Nat. Ord. Leguminosae. A genus of nearly sixty species of plant- stove trees, with one exception all natives of tropical America. S. grandiflora and S. pin- nata are in cultivation, but, owing to their size, are seldom met with except in large or botanical collections. Swedish Juniper. Juniperus communis fastigiata. Sweet Alyssum. See Koniga. Sweet Amber. Hypericum Androscemum. Sweet Basil. See Ocimum. Sweet Bay. See Laurus nobilis and Magnolia glauca. Sweet Brier. See Rosa rubiginosa. Sweet Chestnut. Castanea sativa. Sweet Cicely. See Osmorhiza. Sweet Clover. See Melilotus alba. Sweet Fern. See Comptonia. Sweet Flag. See Acorus. Sweet Gale. See Myrica Gale. Sweet Gum Tree. See Liquidambar styradflua. Sweet Leaf. See Symptoms tinctoria. Sweet Marjoram. See Origanum Majorana. Sweet Pea. See Lathyrus odoratus. Sweet Pepperbush. See Clethra. Sweet Potato. See Potato. Sweet Scabious. Scabiosa atropurpurea. Sweet-scented Crab. Pyrus coronaria. Sweet-scented Shrub. Calycanthus floridus. Sweet-scented Verbena. Aloysia (Lippia) citrioidora. Sweet Sop. See Anona. Sweet Sultan. Centaurea moschata. Sweet Vernal Grass. Anthoxanthum odoratum. Sweet William. See Dianthus barbatus. Swe'rtia. Named after E. Swert, a famous cul- tivator of bulbs and flowers in Holland. Nat. Ord. Gentianacea. A genus of annual or perennial plants, mostly hardy, natives of Europe, Asia and northern India. The leaves are used in their native countries medicinally. S. perennis is an interesting and singular perennial, with slender, erect stems, growing from one to three feet high, terminated by erect spikes of flowers. It is an interesting plant for the rock garden. Several others of the species are in cultivation under the name of Ophelia, but none of them are valuable as flowering plants. 442 HENDEKSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS SWI Swiete'nia. Mahogany. In honor of Gerard Van Swieten, a Dutch botanist and author. Nat. Ord. Meliacece. " The Mahogany Tree, S. Mahagoni, is a na- tive of the West Indies, Central America, and Mexico, and is one of the most majestic of trees ; for though some rise to a greater height, this tree, like the Oak and the Cedar, impresses the spectator with the strongest feelings of its firmness and duration. In the rich valleys among the mountains of Cuba, and those that open upon the bay of Honduras, the Mahogany expands to so huge a trunk, divides into so many massive arms, and throws the shade of so many shiny green leaves, spotted with tufts of pearly flowers, over so vast an extent of surface, that it is difficult to imagine a vege- table production combining in such a degree the qualities of elegance and strength, of beauty and sublimity. The Mahogany tree is found in great quantities on the low and woody lands, and even upon the rocks in the countries upon the western shores of the Caribbean Sea, about Honduras and Cam- peachy. It is also abundant in the islands of Cuba and Hayti, and it used to be plentiful in Jamaica, where it was of excellent quality, but most of the larger trees have been cut down. It was formerly abundant on the Bahamas, where it grew to a great height, with the trunks four feet in diameter. When it grows in favorable situations the timber is larger and plain ; the better portion, such as is used for veneers, comes from the junction of the branches with the body, or crotches, as they are commonly termed. The trees that grow in rocky and exposed situations do not grow as large, but the timber is more solid, has a greater variety and shade of grain, is much stronger, and in all ways preferable for cabinet work." The Bay wood and Spanish Cedar of commerce are of the same species, but are of larger growth, and the wood is very coarse and soft. It is used principally in mak- ing cigar boxes or similar work. Swiss Chard. See Beta. Swiss Stone Pine. Pinus Cembra. Sword Lily. A popular name for Gladiolus. Sya'grus. The old Greek name of a Palm, mentioned by Pliny. Nat. Ord. PalmacecB. A small genus of unarmed Palms now in- cluded by Bentham and Hooker under Cocos. Sycamore Tree. Acer Pseudo-platanus. The name is also applied to Platanus occidentalis and other species. The Sycamore of the New Testament is Ficus Sycomorus (syn. Sycomorus antiquorum). Sylvestris, Sylvaticus. Growing in woods. Symphorica'rpus. St. Peter's Wort. Snow- berry. From symphoreo, to accumulate, and karpos, a fruit; in allusion to its clustered bunches of fruit. Nat. Ord. Caprifoliacece. A genus of hardy, deciduous shrubs, common in most of the States. Some of them are quite ornamental, and are cultivated in the shrub- bery border. They grow so freely and sucker so much that it is difficult to keep them un- der subjection. S. racemosus, the Snowberry, has pinkish flowers, disposed in loose racemes, which are succeeded by large white berries, which are very ornamental, and remain on the bush until nearly winter, making it con- SYN spicuous in the border. The variegated varie- ty is a fine plant. Symphya'ndra. From symphio, to grow to- gether, and aner, andros, an anther; the anthers are connate. Nat. Ord. Campanulacem. A genus of hardy, perennial herbs, natives of the Caucasus. The flowers are white, yellow or blue; large and often nodding. Propa- gated by seeds or by cuttings in spring. Sy'mphytum. Comfrey. From symphyo, to make unite, and phyton, a plant ; in reference to its healing qualities. Nat. Ord. BoraginacecB. A genus of coarse-growing, weedy plants, formerly esteemed for their medicinal prop- erties, and of the first importance in a col- lection of herbs. They have become natural- ized in this country from Europe, and are common around old gardens and in moist places. 8. officinalis luteo-marginalis is a very ornamental, hardy variety, the leaves being broadly margined with creamy-white; it is an excellent plant for the herbaceous border. S. asperrimum was introduced into this coun- try for use as a forage plant in 1875, but has proved to be entirely valueless for that pur- pose. Propagated by seeds or by division. Symploca'rpus. Skunk Cabbage. From sym- ploke, connection, and karpos, fruit ; descrip- tive of the plant. Nat. Ord. Aroidea. A rather coarse-growing plant, common in swamps and wet meadows from Virginia to Maine. 8. foztidus, the only known species, is the common Skunk Cabbage, and is readily known by its skunk-like odor when the leaves are bruised. Sy'mplocos. From symploke, a connection ; the stamens are united at the base. Nat. Ord. Styracacem. A large genus of trees and shrubs, broadly dispersed over the warmer parts of Asia, Aus- tralia and America. The leaves of S. tinc- toria, the Horse Sugar or Sweet-leaf of the Southern States, are greedily eaten by cattle, and in Georgia and Carolina are used for dye- ing yellow ; the leaves of other species are used for the same purpose in Nepal. In India the bark of 8. racemosa, called Lodh, is used both as a dyeing material and as a mor- dant for other dyes. 8. Japonica, with yellow flowers, introduced from Japan in 1850, and S. sinica, with white fragrant flowers from China, are both cultivated as green-house shrubs. A still later introduction, however, from the mountains of northern Japan, 8. paniculatus, has white, sweet-scented flowers, and ultra-marine-blue fruit making the shrub conspicuous among those which are valued for their ornamental fruit. Mr. Jackson Daw- son, of the Arnold Arboretum, Boston, assures us that it is perfectly hardy there, and speaks of it as one of the very best of late introduc- tions to our list of hardy shrubs. Synade'nium. African Milk Bush. From syn, united, and aden, a gland ; the glands of the involucre are united in a cup or disc. A genus of Euphorbiacece, closely allied to Euphorbia, and of which S. Grantii, an African species, introduced in 1867, is cultivated for its bright crimson flowers, which are showy and attractive. It is also an excellent plant for summer hanging baskets, vases, etc., especially in exposed situations, and is in- creased by cuttings, thoroughly dried at the base before insertion. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 443 SYN Syngenesious. Having the anthers united at their edges so as to form a tube. Syngo'nium. From syn, together, and gone, the womb ; alluding to the cohesion of the ovaries. Nat. Ord. Aroidece. 8. auritum, introduced from Jamaica, the species most generally found in cultivation, is a rather coarse-growing plant, useful only in large collections. S. Vellozianum, S. Wenlandii, S. podophyllum-lineatum, are all very showy sorts and can be easily increased by division of the stem in heat. Any old plants that get too tall may have their tops cut off and inserted as large cuttings; they will soon root in a warm, moist atmosphere. Synno'tia. Named in honor of W. Synnot, who collected many plants at the Cape of Good Hope ; erroneously spelled Synettia. Nat. Ord. JridaceoB. A small genus of three very pretty, green- house, bulbous plants, now generally referred to Gladiolus. S. bicolor is found in cultivation under the name of Ixia bicolor. Synonym. In botany, a superseded or unused name. Sy'nthyris. From syn, together, and thyrsis, a little door; in allusion to the closed valves of the pod. Nat. Ord. Scrophulariacece. A genus of hardy, or pilose hardy, herbaceous perennials, with thick rhizomes, natives of northwest America. The bluish or reddish flowers are borne in racemes or spikes four to six inches long ; closely allied to Veronica. Syri'nga. The Lilac. Pipe Tree. From syrinx, a pipe ; the branches are long and straight, and filled with medulla ; hence the old name of the Lilac, Pipe Tree. The English name of the genus is from lilac or lilag, the Persian word for the flower. Nat. Ord. Oleacece. A genus of well-known, deciduous shrubs, with purplish or white flowers, natives of , southeastern Europe, Persia, northern India ' and China. All the species are perfectly hardy, ' and are easily grown. S. vulgaris, the com- mon Lilac, with purple or white flowers, is of doubtful origin, though generally credited to Persia. It has been under cultivation for more than a hundred years, and from the species many varieties have been obtained, but without any marked peculiarities. 8. Persica, Persian Lilac, is a very distinct • species, of much smaller size, rarely growing more than six feet high ; the branches are I slender and straight, the leaves are smaller and narrowed at the base. The flowers are produced in looser panicles, and the florets are smaller, giving the whole plant a more grace- ful appearance. The Rouen or Chinese Lilac, S. Chinensis, known also as S. dubia and S. Rothomagensis, is intermediate between the common and the Persian, and is a most desir- able shrub. The large growing, S. Emodi, from the Himalayas, is only suitable for large shrub- beries, it being coarse iu growth, and not remarkable for its flowers, which are pale purple, and produced after those of the com- mon Lilac are past. There is also a variegated form of it. The Hungarian Lilac, S. Josikcea, is a pretty shrub, and valuable, as it is quite different from the others. It grows fully six feet high, and bears erect spikes of small, pale, mauve flowers. The new S. Japonica, known also as S. Amurensis and Ligustrina SYR Amurensis, is a most valuable, hardy, flowering shrub. Its hardiness, vigorous growth, excel- lent habit, ample foliage, and dense clusters of creamy- white flowers, somewhat resembling those of the Japanese privet, appearing at a season when few trees are in bloom make it one of the most desirable of the small trees recently introduced into gardens. The fact that it loses its leaves early In the autumn, and that they fall while still green, is the only drawback which has yet been noticed in it as an ornamental plant. S. oblata is not known in a wild state ; it was first discovered by Fortune in a garden at Shanghai, and later by the Abbe David in gardens near Pekin. Its perfect hardiness in this climate indicates its northern origin. It flowers ten or twelve days earlier than S. vulgaris, and its thick, leathery leaves, which are never attacked by mildew, turn in the autumn to a rich, dark russet color, a character which should be taken ad- vantage of by hybridizers to secure a new race of Lilacs with the large inflorescence of 8. vulgaris, and the foliage of 8. oblata. Seed- ling varieties, many of them much superior in size and color to the species, have been originated in late years and are now in general cultivation. Of the white sorts, the best at the present writing are Marie Legrange, Alba magna, Alba virginalis and Alba grandiflora. Of the colored sorts the finest is Souvenir de L. Spath, with massive clusters of very large, richly-colored flowers. Charles X. (an excellent variety for early forcing) is a desirable sort, and others good in color are, Alphonse Lavallee, Louis van Houtte, Le Gaul- ois, Aline Mocquery and Rubra de Marley. There is also a double-flowered section in cul- tivation which have denser flower-clusters, and as a rule last longer in perfection than the single varieties. Lilacs are now forced in large quantities for cut flowers, and when blanched pure white they have a very chaste and beautiful appearance. One of the best and most useful for this purpose is the variety known as Charles X. ; its panicles of flowers are much larger and more compact than the Persian Lilac of our gardens, which is, however, well adapted for similar use. If forced in suffi- cient heat the coloring matter has no time to form in the flowers, consequently the col- ored sorts are as useful for forcing purposes as the pure white varieties. All the species are rapidly increased from layers or from suckers, the only trouble being that they in- crease so fast as to be troublesome. That the Lilac has been cultivated for centuries there is plenty of evidence. We have person- ally gathered specimens growing with Pars- ley {Apium petroselinum) in the debris of cas- tles in Great Britain that had been in ruins for over three hundred years, showing that the warlike barons, or their wives, had some taste for the ornamental as well as the use- ful, even in those early days. Syri'nga. A common name for Philadelphus coronarius, which see. Syringo'dea. A small order of pretty, dwarf, green-house, bulbous plants, closely allied to Ixia. S. pulchella has very pretty, pale, purple flowers nearly two inches long, with filiform leaves. Introduced from South Africa in 1873. Ui HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS T. TAB Tabebu'ia. Said to be the native name in Brazil. Nat. Ord. Bignoniacece. A large genus of plant-stove trees or shrubs, natives of tropical America ; few of the species are in cultivation. They require the same treatment as Tecoma, under which genus they are sometimes included. T. spectabilis is now given as the correct name of the species culti- vated as Bignonia or Tecoma spectabilis. Tabernaemonta'na. East Indian Rose Bay. Named in honor of James Theodore Tabernm- montanus, of Heidelberg, a celebrated physi- cian and botanist. Nat. Ord. Apocynacece. This genus is composed of very handsome, hot-house shrubs, with deep green foliage and large, white or yellow flowers, possessing an agreeable fragrance. After blooming they should receive a moderate pruning to keep them bushy and increase the number of flower heads. The large, leathery leaves of this and other similar genera are inducements, in the way of shelter, to many troublesome insects, such as thrips, scale and mealy bug ; to eradicate these, and keep the plants healthy, they should be frequently washed, each leaf separately, with a sponge and soap and Avater, or the latter alone, and at intervals receive a sprinkling with a syringe to clean them of dust, which in itself is prejudicial to all plants, and gives encouragement to the insects by causing a languid action in the leaves. The several species are mostly natives of the East Indies, but a few are dis- tributed throughout the West Indies and South America. T. coronaria flore-pleno, the species most generally cultivated, bears a pure white flower something like a Gardenia, and is very fragrant at night. It is sometimes met with under the old name of Nerium coro- narium. Its native country is unknown, but it is cultivated throughout India, whence it was introduced in 1770. It is easily in- creased by cuttings. Table, Stage and Bench. These are the different terms used for the structure whereon plants are set in the green-house. The bench or table more particularly refers to one flat platform, which, if in the front of the green- house, is from three to four feet wide ; if in the middle or centre of the house, seven or eight feet wide, and from two to three feet in height, according to the style of the house. These widths and heights are important as being the most convenient for use, as well as to show the plants to the best advan- tage. The Stage is a series of platforms, placed usually in the centre of the green- house, being of various widths, from one to three feet. For instance, if the base width of the platform be nine feet, three stagings of three feet each would be required (each elevated a foot above the other) to make the width. This style of green-house benching, however, is less to be recommended than one platform of the same height, as the latter is not only more convenient to work with, but the plants show on it to better advantage than if elevated too high. TAO The green-house benches are usually made of inch boards, but in our own practice we have for the past three years had all the "sheeting" for our benches made of rough roofing slate, over which is laid half an inch of cement. These materials cost only about 25 per cent, more than the board benches, and are an immense saving, as the wooden benches rot out from the heat and moisture in four or five years. The skeleton or frame- work of the benches we make of Yellow Pine. If the frame-work were made of iron, such benches would be indestructible; but even with the pine wood frame-work they will stand for twenty years, as the cement cover- ing laid over the slates prevents the water getting to the wood work. Care, however, must be taken to leave spaces every ten feet or so, where the water can escape through the bench. For the material covering the bench on which to set the plants, see Drain- age. Tacamahac. A common name for Populus baU samifera or the Balsam Poplar. Ta'cca. The Malay name of the species. Nat. Ord. Taccacece. A genus of East Indian plants, grown by the natives for their bulbs, which resemble new Potatoes, and contain a large amount of starch. The various species grow in the open country ; T. pinnatifida is generally found in sandy places near the sea. The leaf-stalks of this species are plaited into bonnets by the natives of the Society Islands, but the princi- pal use made of all the species is that of their tubers, which, resembling new Potatoes, con- tain a great deal of starch, known as South Sea Arrowroot, and far preferable to any other Arrowroot in cases of dysentery. The tubers are dug up after the leaves have died away, and are rasped and macerated four or five days in water, when the fecula separates in the same manner as Sago does. It is largely employed as an article of diet throughout the tropics, and is a favorite ingredient for pud- dings and cakes in the South Sea Islands. The species are rarely seen in plant collec- tions. Syn. Ataccia. Tacca'ceae. A small, natural order of perennial herbs, with creeping or tuberous rhizomes, found in tropical America, Africa, Asia and the Pacific Islands. The order consists of two genera, Shizocapsa and Tacca, and in- cludes about ten species. Ataccia is placed as a sub-division of Tacca. The Malay Rice Paper Plant. Taccada Plant. (See Sccevola.) Tacca'rum. The name is adapted from Tacca, which genus they resemble. Nat. Ord. Aroi- dece. A small genus of tall, tuberous herbs, na- tives of Brazil. Two species, T. peregrinum and T. Warmingianum, are in cultivation. They are very showy, large-leaved, plant-stove species, and are useful for lawn-decoration in summer. Syns. Endera and Lysistigma. XETRAGONA ^NEW ZEALAND fcPINACH). TARRAGON. THRINAX BBAZILIEN6T8. TRACHELIUM CCERULEUM. 444 THVMUS VULGARIS (THYME) TACSONIA (VAN VOLXEMIl) THALICTRUM AQTJILEGIFOLIUM. TA6ETES (MARIOOLD), AFRICAN "EL DORADO." EpfSpS TAGETES J'ISTTFLOSA LUTEA. TAGETES 8IGNATA PCMILA. TAGETES (MARIGOLD), DWARF GOLD STRIPED. TAGETES (MARIGOLD), AFRICAN. TAGETES (MARIGOLD), DWARF FRENCH, GOLD STRIPED. 4*5 AND GENEBAL HORTICULTURE. 445 TAO Taehiade'nus. From Tachia, a genus of the same order, and aden, a gland ; the ovary is surrounded by a ring of glands as in Tachia. Nat. Ord. Gentianacew. A genus of herbaceous or somewhat shrubby plants, natives of Madagascar. T. carinatus is a pretty, green-house annual, closely re- lated to Chironia, Lisianthus and Exacum, and was introduced by the Rev. William Ellis in 1858, who brought seeds from Madagascar. It grows freely, branches naturally at the base, and attains the height of a foot or more. The flowers are white, with the lobes of the corolla bright-purple, produced freely in au- tumn, and lasting over a month before fading. Seeds should be sown in February and treated like Gloxinias. Tacso'nia. From Tacso, the name of one of the species in Peru. Nat. Ord. Passifloracece. A genus of very beautiful climbing plants, closely related to Passiflora, having the same general appearance, and the same structure of stamens, pistils and fruit, but differing in the usually long, cylindrical tube of the calyx, which is furnished with two crowns, one at the throat, and the other near its base. In T. manicata, however, a very handsome species, the tube scarcely exceeds in length that of a Passion Flower. The species are natives of Central America and the West Indies. The fruits of several of them, as T. mollissima, T. tripartita and T. speciosa, are edible. T. Buchanani is Passiflora vitifolia, and is one of the most beautiful plants of the order. The Tacsonias are all beautiful plants and worthy a place in any collection. They require the same general treatment as Passi- flora, and are propagated in the same way. Taeni'tis. From tainia, a fillet or ribbon ; allud- ing to the linear pinnae. A small genus of interesting stove ferns, all tropical, but not very closely allied. They differ principally from Tcmiopsis and Vittaria in their fronds being all net-veined. Tage'tes. Marigold. From the beauty of its flowers, this genus was named after Tages, a Tuscan divinity. Nat. Ord. Composite. Marigolds are old favorites in our gardens, particularly those known as African and French Marigolds. The former (T. erecta) have uniformly large yellow or orange-colored flowers, and usually attain a couple of feet in height; the latter (T. patula) are more dwarf, and have their flowers striped of a deep brown-purple and yellow. They are all showy, especially in masses, and are effective for dis- tant groups. There is, however, another species, T. signata pumila (syn. T. tenuifolia), preferable for bedding ; it is more compact in habit ; and though its flowers do not boast the vivid coloring of the French Marigolds (being entirely yellow), yet they are produced in such long succession as to amply compensate for the deficiency ; besides which, the scent, so frequently complained of in the others, is in this so much reduced as to be no longer unpleasant. T. lucida, the sweet-scented, Mexican Marigold, is also occasionally grown in gardens and is very showy. These com- prise all that are worth cultivating as orna- mental plants, and require precisely the same treatment as other hardy annuals. Talau'ma. The native name of the South American species. Nat. Ord. Magnoliacew. TAM A genus of trees or shrubs remarkable for their fine, fragrant flowers. There are about fifteen species, four of which are natives of tropical America and the rest of Asia and Japan. Six or more species are in cultivation, but are found only in large collections. Prop- agated principally by layers. Taliga'lea. Said to be the native name in Guiana. Nat. Ord. Verbenacecs. Amasonia is now the correct name of this genus. (See Amasonia.) Tali'num. Supposed to be from thalia, a green branch ; referring to its durable verdure. Nat. Ord. Portulacacea. A genus of annual and biennial, succulent plants, inhabiting the warmer parts of both hemispheres, but chiefly confined to sub-tropi- cal America. T. patens, and its variety with variegated foliage, a native of Brazil, is a desirable plant for the border, or as a basket or vase plant, being well adapted to stand hot, dry weather, and does not suffer badly if neglected. The variegated variety is often used as a white line for ribbon borders. This species is used in Brazil as a pot-herb, and is readily propagated by seeds or cuttings. Introduced in 1776. Talipot Palm. See Corypha umbraculifera. Tallow Shrub. A common name for Myrica cerifera. Tallow Tree. See Stillingia. Tamarack. American or Black Larch, Hack- matack. See Larix Americana. Tamarica'ceae. A natural order of shrubs or undershrubs, found chiefly in maritime sands or gravelly places near rivers, in the temperate and warmer regions of the north- ern hemisphere, and also in South Africa. The two principal Asiatic and European gen- era, Tamarix and Reaumuria, are regarded by some botanists as types of distinct orders ; and the splendid Mexican genus, Fouquiera, differing chiefly in the large petals, united into a tubular corolla, has only lately been associated with the TamaricacecB as a third tribe. Tamarind. See Tamarindus. Tamari'ndus. Tamarind Tree. Tamar, in Ara- bic, is the name of the Date, and Indus, In- dian, literally Indian Date. Nat. Ord. Papi- lionacem. The tree that furnishes the Tamarinds for preserves is a native of the East and West Indies, Egypt and Arabia. It is a large, spreading and beautiful tree, and its grace- ful, pinnated foliage, and racemes of fragrant flowers, which are yellow striped with red, and its purple stamens, give it an elegant ap- pearance. T. Indica is the only known spe- cies, and this varies but little in the different countries in which it abounds. Propagated from cuttings and by seeds. Introduced in 1633. Ta'marisk. See Tamarix. Ta'marix. Tamarisk. From Tamaris, now Tambro, the name of a river where it grows, on the borders of the Pyrenees. Nat. Ord. TamaricacecB. Tall-growing shrubs, mostly natives of Eu- rope. A great many species are enumerated, but two only are usually met in collections of ornamental shrubs. These are T. Gallica, 446 HENDEBSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS TAM the French Tamarisk, and T. Germanica, the German Tamarisk. The French Tamarisk is far the handsomest, and will thrive in almost any soii or situation : in bleak exposed places on the seashore, in the poorest sandy soils, it never fails to succeed and to produce its long, terminal, graceful spikes of pinkish flowers. It will do equally well in city yards, that are exposed to sun, soot and smoke. It is, in short, one of our most valuable orna- mental shrubs. The Manna of Mount Sinai is produced by a variety of T. Gallica ; it con- sists wholly of pure, mucilaginous sugar. T. Africana is quite commonly grown. The plants are easily increased by cuttings. Tampico Fibre. See Leopoldinia. Ta'mus. Black Bryony. Ladies' Seal. The old Latin name used by Pliny. The only Euro- pean representative of the Nat. Ord. Dios- coridacece. There are two well-known spe- cies, T. communis, the Black Bryony, a Brit- ish plant, and T. cretica, a native of Greece and the Grecian Archipelago. They are both climbing plants, and have thick tuberous roots, sending up annual stems which grow to a great length. Their flowers are of sepa- rate sexes, borne on different plants, and are produced in the leaf axils, in slender branched racemes. They are increased by divisions of the roots or by seeds. Tanace'tum. Tansy. Derivation of name un- known. Said to be altered from Athanasia, immortal ; in allusion to the persistent flowers. Nat. Ord. Composites. All the species that compose this genus are hardy, herbaceous plants, or what might prop- erly be called weeds. T. balsamita, a very sweet-smelling, hardy, herbaceous plant, is the Costmary or Alecost of old gardens. T. vul- gare is the common Tansy of the old gardens and roadsides. It was formerly introduced as a garden plant, and took a prominent posi- tion among domestic medicines, but is now pretty generally discarded. It is a native of Europe, has escaped from the gardens, and has long been naturalized in the United States. T. v. crispum is a very elegant, dwarf variety, with smaller, emerald-green leaves, which are very elegantly cut, and have a crisped or frizzled appearance . Tanghi'nia. Ordeal Tree. Tanghin is the native name of the plant in Madagascar. Nat. Ord. ApocynaceoB. T. venenifera, the only species, is a small, glabrous, evergreen tree, with rose-colored flowers in large terminal cymes, each sup- ported by a couple of bracts. The seeds of this plant furnish a powerful poison, and were formerly used as an ordeal by the kings of Madagascar. The seed was pounded, and a small portion given to each person to be tried; those in whom it caused vomiting, escaped, but to those whose stomachs re- tained it, it was quickly fatal and their guilt was then held to be proven. Tansy. See Tanacetum. Tape Grass. See Vallisneria. Tapeino'tes. A small genus of Gesneracece, for the most part now included in Sinningia and Gloxinia. Taper. The opposite of angular; usually em- ployed in contradistinction to that term when speaking of long bodies. TAB Tapioca Plant. A common name for Manihot utilissima. Tap-Root. A root which penetrates deep and perpendicularly into the ground without divid- ing. Tara'xacum. Dandelion. Name supposed to be from the Greek taraxo, to disquiet or dis- order ; in allusion to the medicinal effects of the plant. Nat. Ord. Composite^. The common Dandelion, T. Dens-leonis, is a native of Europe, but has become so thor- oughly naturalized as to be a very troublesome weed. The roots have powerful medicinal properties and are held in high esteem by the Eclectic practitioners. The leaves are used as a pot-herb, for which purpose the plants are grown in frames by the market gardeners of nearly all large cities. It is also used as an early spring "greens, " and is cultivated for this purpose in both private and market gardens. Of late years a great improvement has been made in the size of the leaves of the cultivated kinds. Propagated by seeds. Tare. The common Vetch, Vicia sativa, also Vicia hirsuta and Ervum Ervilia. Tares of Scripture. See Lolium temulentum. Ta'ro. The native name for Colocasia anti- quorum. This plant forms one of the chief articles of diet in the Pacific Isles, where it is largely cultivated. The tubers are boiled or baked, or made into bread, and the young leaves may be eaten like Spinach ; but like the tubers they require to be well cooked to destroy their poisonous properties and acrid- ity. Several varieties are cultivated, some being better for one mode of cooking, some for another. Dr. Seemann relates that one kind, called " Kurilagi, " was pointed out to him as having been eaten with nearly a whole tribe of people, in the island of Viti Levu. This tribe having given great offence to the ruling chief of the district, was condemned to die. Every year the inmates of one house were baked and eaten, the empty dwelling burned down, and its foundation planted with "Kurilagi." The next year when this Taro was ripe, it was the signal for destroying the next house and its inhabitants, and the plant- ing of a fresh field of Taro. After many years the remaining few were pardoned, and allowed to die a natural death, and in 1860 one old woman was the only survivor of the tribe. (Seemann's " Flora Vitiensis. ") Ta'rragon. (Artemisia Dracunculus.) This, like many garden plants that have been under cul- tivation for at least four hundred years, is of unknown origin. Opinions are divided as to whether it is a native of Siberia or the South of Europe. It is a hardy, herbaceous perennial, cultivated for its leaves and young shoots, both of which are used as an ingredient in salads, soups, stews, pickles and various other compounds. Tarragon vinegar, so much esteemed as a fish-sauce, is made by an infusion of the leaves in common vinegar. It is propagated from seeds, or frpm pieces of the root, every portion of which, however small, will grow if a single bud is left on. Tartareous. Having a rough, crumbling sur- face. Tartarian Honeysuckle. See Lonicera. Tartarian Lamb. See Cibotium Barometz. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 447 TAS Tassel Flower. See Cacalia. Tavernie'ra. Named in honor of J. B. Taver- nier, a celebrated traveler in the Levant. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A small genus of shrubs, natives of the East Indies and the Orient. T. nummularia, the East Indian Money-wort, is a dwarf, very bushy, branching, green-house shrub, with trifoliate, fleshy, obcordate leaves, and ra- cemes of rather pretty, red flowers. Only two species have been introduced. Taxa'ceae. A sub-order of Conifer w, often con- sidered as a distinct order, chiefly by their fruits not being collected in cones, each ovule growing singly, unprotected by hardened scales. Taxo'dium. Bald Cypress, Deciduous Cypress. From taxus, the Yew, and aides, like ; trees resembling the Yew. Nat. Ord. Coniferce. T. distichum, the deciduous Cypress, abounds in the Southern States, growing as far north as Delaware and southern Illinois. It is one of the most valuable trees for timber, and is considerably grown as an ornamental tree for the lawn. It is perfectly hardy as far north as New York. Beautiful specimens are often seen on lawns, where their feathery foliage renders them attractive objects. Ta'xus. Yew. From taxon, a bow; the wood anciently used for bows ; or from taxis, arrangement, the leaves being arranged on the branches like the teeth of a comb. Yew is supposed to be from the Celtic word iw, signifying verdure ; alluding to the Yew being an evergreen. Nat. Ord. Coniferce. A genus of well-known evergreen trees, popularly known as the Irish Yew. They are compact in habit, their branches being densely crowded with leaves; they are also upright, the branches perpendicular, giving the tree a small circumference for its height. On this account, it is a favorite tree for cemeteries and churchyards. There is a native species, T. baccata var. Canadensis, commonly known as Ground Hemlock or American Yew, com- mon in the more Northern States, on moist banks and hills. It rarely grows more than four feet high, and is branching and straggling in habit. T. baccata, the common Yew of England, is the species from which the ancient English bows were made. Loudon says : " In the days of archery the Yew was the principal wood used for the bow in Britain, and in the reign of Henry VIII., of England, the demand was so great that it had to be imported from the continent of Europe into England, and various laws were passed concerning it from the days of Edward IV. to Elizabeth." Tea-Berry. Canada Tea. A local name some- times given to the Wintergreen, Gaultheria procumbens, which see. Tea-Plant or Tea-Tree. See Thea. African. Lycium afrum. American Mountain. Gaultheria procumbens. Australian. Various species of Leptospermum and Melaleuca. Blue Mountain. Solidago odora. Botany Bay or Sweet. Smilax glycyphylla. Brazilian. Stachytarpheta Jamaicensis. Cape Colony. Helichrysum serpillifolium. Ceylon. Elceodendron glaucum. Duke of Argyle's. Lycium barbarum. Malay. Eugenia variabilis. TEE Mexican. Psoralea glandulosa. New Jersey. Ceanothus Americanus. New Zealand. Ltptospermum flavescens and L. scoparium. New Zealand, Sweet Scented. Philadelphus aromaticus. Oswego. Monarda didyma. Paraguay. See Ilex Paraguariensis. Tasmanian. Melaleuca squarrosa. Wild. Amorpha canescens. Winter Berry. Prinos glabra. Teak Tree. Indian. See Tectona grandis. Tear Thumb. A name commonly applied to several species of Polygonum, on account of their rough, bearded stems, which lacerate when handled. Teasel. See Dipsacus. Teco'ma. From Tecomaxochitl, the Mexican name of the species. Nat. Ord. Bignoniacece. A genus of hardy, deciduous and green- house, evergreen, climbing shrubs, consisting of upward of fifty species. They are mostly South American plants. T. radicans, or Trumpet Creeper, in general cultivation, is a native species, common from Pennsylvania to Illinois and southward. It is well adapted for covering walls or arbors in exposed places, being perfectly hardy and a rapid grower; the flowers are large, tubular, and a brilliant orange. T. grandiflora is nearly allied to T. radicans, but has larger flowers of a deeper shade of orange. These two species are com- monly known as Bignonias. Some of the green-house species are objects of great beauty, but as they flower in summer, they are not as generally grown as they should be. All the species are propagated from cuttings of the root or suckers. Tecophylee'a. Chilian Crocus. Named after Tecophila, the daughter of the botanist Bil- lotti. Nat. Ord. Hemodoracece. T. cyanocrocus, the only species yet intro- duced, is a charming little Chilian, bulbous plant, growing only a few inches in height, having narrow leaves and erect bell-shaped flowers, of an intensely deep blue, with a light centre. It is a spring flowerer, and nearly, if not quite, hardy. Introduced in 1872. Te'ctona. Teak Tree. From Tekka, its Mala- bar name. Nat. Ord. Verbenacece. This is a celebrated timber tree of the East Indies, used for ship-building in preference to all other woods, because of its strength, great durability, the ease with which it can be worked, and its non-liability to be injured by the attacks of Fungi. Some of the species have been introduced into the green-house. They are very handsome trees, with purple or white flowers, but their size prevents their general introduction. Tee'dia. Called after J. G. Teede, a German botanist and traveler, who died in Surinam. Nat. Ord. Scrophulariacece. A small genus of green-house, glabrous or pubescent shrubs, natives of South Africa. Two species, T. lucida and T. pubescens, have been introduced. They have small, pink flow- ers, borne in a terminal, leafy thyrse, and are quite pretty plants when in flower. A rich, light soil is most suitable for them, and prop- agation may be effected by seeds or by cut- tings. 448 HENDEESON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS TEE Teesda'lia. Named after Robert Teesdale, an English botanist, author of a "Catalogue of Plants growing about Castle Howard." Nat. Ord. GrucifercB. A genus of two species of inconspicuous, hardy, annual plants, with minute, white flow- ers and rosulate leaves, natives of western Europe and the Mediterranean region. Tel'anthera. From televis, complete, and an- thera, an anther. Nat. Ord. Amaranthacece. Kept up by Bentham and Hooker as a sep- arate genus, but cultivated under the name of Altemanthera, which see. Telegraph Plant. A popular name for Desmo- diwm gyrans. Tele'kia. Name not explained. Nat. Ord. Composites. T. cordatwm, the only species under cultiva- tion, is a fine, robust, herbaceous plant, with large, cordate leaves. The flower-heads are of a rich orange color, produced in cymose panicles; it is a plant well adapted for a shrubbery border, as its bloom is long con- tinued, which, with its handsome foliage, con- stitutes a handsome border plant. The ro- bust stems require no staking. Native of southern Europe ; introduced in 1825. Prop- agation by seeds and division of root in spring. Syn. Buphthalmum. Tele'phium. Named by Linnaeus after Tele- phus, a son of Hercules. A genus of Illece- bracecB, inhabiting the Mediterranean region, and found also at the Cape of Good Hope. T. Imperatri, the Tree Orpine, has been intro- duced, but is not worth cultivating. Telfai'ria. Named after Charles Telfair, an Irish botanist, who died in the Mauritius, 1833. Nat. Ord. Cucwrbitacece. T. pedata, the best known species, is a tall, climbing plant, a native of Zanzibar, intro- duced in 1825, but rarely grown, the room and care required in the green-house being considered too valuable for a plant only re- markable for its curious fruit, which often grows three feet long, and six to eight inches in diameter, containing upward of two hun- dred and fifty circular seeds, about an inch in diameter. These seeds yield an excellent oil, and they are, moreover, as palatable as almonds. T. occidentalis, introduced from West Africa in 1870, is said to be cultivated for its seeds, which the negroes boil and eat. Telli'ma. An anagram of Mitella, under which this genus was formerly included. Nat. Ord. Saxifragacece. A genus of hardy, erect, annual or peren- nial plants, natives of northwestern America, resembling the Heuchera. T. grandiflora has prettily colored and veined leaves, like Heu- chera Richardsoni, and spikes of small, yel- lowish, bell-like flowers. It is a good plant for the rock-garden, and is increased by cut- tings. Telo'pea. Waratah. From telopas, seen at a distance ; alluding to the great distance at which its crimson-colored flowers may be seen in its native country. Nat. Ord. ProteacetB. The brilliant, scarlet flowers of this plant, which are conspicuous even at a great dis- tance, are said to have been one cause why the coast of New South Wales was distin- guished by its first visitors as Botany Bay, in allusion to the great accession to botany TEM likely to be derived from a country where the plants appeared so different from those of Europe. The flower of the Waratah may be compared to a gigantic head of clover of the most intense and brilliant scarlet, but it is not common, probably because it is a very difficult plant to manage. The first point to be attended to is to have the pot in which it is grown thoroughly well drained, and the next, to allow it abundance of light and air. It is propagated by cuttings or suckers, which it throws up in abundance. It should be reg- ularly watered in the flowering season, but it may be kept almost dry during the winter months. Temperature. A temperature suited to the nature of the plant is one of the most impor- tant conditions to the well-being of plants under cultivation, and the nearer we can come to the conditions of temperature and moisture of the native habitat of the plant the nearer we come to perfection in cultivation. Thus we find that in our garden weeds, the Chick- weed (Stellaria media) is only troublesome in early spring and in the fall, when the average temperature is perhaps 50° or 60°, because it is a native of a country (Britain) where there is no higher average ; while our too familiar Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) only rears its head to injure, in the dog days, when the ther- mometer averages 70° or 80°, because it is an importation from the tropics. A large proportion of Lima Beans, Sweet Corn, and other tropical vegetable seeds, annu- ally perish by being sown two or three weeks too early by our impatient amateur horticul- turalists ; while, on the other hand, the colder blooded Parsnip or Carrot all but refuse to germinate, and often fail to grow in the hot summer weather. Seeds of Calceolarias, Cin- erarias, Primroses, Pansies, etc., which in England are sown and germinate freely in July, will in a majority of cases utterly fail if attempted at the same date here, where we have 15° to 20° higher temperature and a drier atmosphere. We hear of hundreds of failures of this kind every season, which are laid to the quality of the seeds by foreign garden- ers, who have not yet had experience with our American climate. The same seeds sown during the months of February, March, or April, or September, or October, would germinate without trouble, because the tem- perature and atmosphere then can be made inside congenial to their nature. The same necessity for congenial tempera- ture exists in growing in matured plants, and one of the main causes of want of success in cultivating plants under glass is a want of knowledge, or carelessness, in keeping a tem- perature unsuited to the growth of the plants. In ordinary green-house collections the fault is oftener in the temperature being kept too high than too low, for it is usually much easier, requiring far less watchfulness by the person in charge, to keep up a high temperature. The injury done by this is gradual, and will not, like the action of frost on the plants, show in the morning. In consequence of this, we often see the green-houses containing Camellias, Azaleas, Pelargoniums, Carnations, etc., swel- tering under a continued night temperature of 60° or 65°, when their nature demands 15° lower. In large establishments, where there are a number of green-houses, this is made an AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 449 TEM easy matter by placing the proper number of four-inch pipes in a green-house to suit the different temperatures for example, in our own establishment, where our houses are uni- formly twenty feet wide, for a temperature of from 35° to 40° in coldest weather, we use four runs of pipes, that is, two pipes on each side ; for 40° to 45° we use five pipes ; for 45° to 50° we use six pipes ; for 55° to 60° we use eight pipes ; and for 65° to 70° we use ten pipes. It is true, we too often see collections of hot-house and green-house plants inter- mingled, and attempts made to grow them which, of necessity, result in failure to one or the other. The temperature to grow, in healthy condition, Dracaenas, Crotons, Coleus, Bouvardias or Poinsettias (hot-house plants), would not be likely to maintain Azaleas, Ca- mellias, Verbenas, Carnations or Geraniums long in a healthy state. The same rules fol- low as to the propagating-house, showing the necessity of observing the requirements of their different natures. See "Propagation of Plants by Cuttings. " The subject is one that relates to so many varieties and different conditions of organism at the different seasons of growth, that it is impossible to convey to the inexperienced what these varieties and conditions are ; but our object is to impress upon inexperienced readers what we have long believed to be an important truth, that the supplying the proper conditions of temperature to plants under glass, according to their different na- tures and conditions, has as much to do with their welfare as any other cause, if not more ; and that often, when ascribing the unhealthy state of a plant to uncongenial soil or defec- tive drainage, or the "damping off" of some favorite cutting to the way it was cut or the sand it was put in, the true and sole cause of failure was nothing more than condemning them to an atmosphere uncongenial to their nature. Templeto'nla. Named in honor of John Temple- ton, an Irish botanist. Nat. Ord. Leguminosae. A genus of New Holland plants, with red or yellow axillary flowers. T. retusa, the " Coral Bush," and two or three other species are grown in green-houses for their showy flow- ers. Increased by cuttings of the young wood. Te'naris. Said to be the native name in South Africa. Nat. Ord. Asclepiadacece. A small genus of erect, slender, green-house, perennial herbs, natives of southern Africa. T. rostrata, the only introduced species, has a whitish corolla, densely covered towards the base with purple dots. It forms a slender bush about one and a half feet high. Intro- duced from east tropical Africa in 1885. Tendril. The twisting, thread-like process by which one plant clings to another. Teosinte. Euchlama luccurians. An introduc- tion from Mexico, the seeds of which were received here in 1879 from the Royal Gardens at Kew, England. It had been previously sent to the British colonies in Africa and other tropical latitudes, where the reports from it as a fodder crop were of the most ex- travagant kind. When fully developed, it reaches a height of twelve feet, each seed making a plant having from one hundred to one hundred and twenty shoots, when planted TES five or six feet apart. It somewhat resembles the Pearl Millet, and, like it, will admit of re- peated cuttings during the growing season. Although perennial, it will probably do better if treated as an annual, sowings to be made every season, as any plant of that luxuriance would quickly exhaust the soil if allowed to remain the second year. As it is closely al- lied to our Maize, or Indian Corn, it will likely be best suited for the Southern States. Syn. Reeana luxurians. Tephro'sia. Hoary Pea. From tephros, ash- colored ; in allusion to the color of the foliage of some of the species. Nat. Ord. Legumi- nosce. An extensive genus of hardy and green- house, herbaceous plants. Of the hardy spe- cies, T. Virginiana is the more common and beautiful. It is usually found in clumps from one to six feet in diameter, growing on dry, sandy soils, in which it succeeds finely, and is a valuable border plant. Its flower stalks are about a foot high, and flowers creamy white and rosy purple, produced in terminal clusters in July. It is very common in the Northern States, and is far more showy and attractive than many of our prominent gar- den flowers. The tender varieties, requiring the protection of the green-house, are diffi- cult to manage, and do not repay the trouble by their short season of flowers. Terebinth Tree. A common name for Pistachio, Terebinthus. Teres, Terete. Tapering; free from angles; cylindrical, or nearly so. Terminal. Borne at, or belonging to, the ex- tremity or summit. Termina'lia. Myrobalan Tree. Olive-bark Tree. From terminus, end ; the leaves are in clusters at the ends of the branches. Nat. Ord. Com- bretacecB. An extensive genus of tropical evergreens, found occasionally in botanical collections. The fruits of several of the species form an important article of commerce in India, being extensively used for tanning and dyeing pur- poses. They are known in commerce under the name of Myrobalans, and are used by calico-printers for the production of a perma- nent black. Ternate. Growing in threes; applied to a leaf consisting of three leaflets. Ternstroe'mia. The typical genus of the Nat. Ord. Ternstromiacece, comprising about twen- ty-five species, inhabiting tropical Asia and America, where they form evergreen shrubs or trees. The flowers are not very showy, but a few of the species are grown for their ornamental foliage. They can be propagated by cuttings of the half-ripened wood. Ternstrcemia'cece. A natural order of trees or shrubs, chiefly tropical, and many of them of great beauty. The most important economic product of this family is Tea (Thea Chinensis), by many botanists included under Camellia as C. theifera, now so largely used all over the world. The order comprises about thirty genera and two hundred species; Gordonia, Stuartia and Camellia are good examples. Tessellated. Checkered ; when colors are dis- posed in small squares. Testa. The skin, or integument of a seed. 450 HENDEESON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS TES Testaceous. Brownish-yellow ; resembling un- glazed earthenware in color. Testudina'ria. Elephant's Foot. From testudo, a tortoise ; resemblance of the outside roots. Nat. Ord. Dioscoreacece. A very singular genus of plants, with enor- mous scaly roots above ground, some of the species resembling an elephant's foot, whence the common name. From these roots arise slender, climbing stems to the height of thirty or forty feet, with small, heart-shaped leaves, and axillary racemes of inconspicuous, green- ish-yellow flowers. The plants are natives of the Cape of Good Hope, and are rarely met in collections. Tetra. This term, used in Greek compounds, signifies four ; as Tetraphyllous, four-leaved ; Tetrapterous, four-winged, etc. Tetrago'nia. New Zealand Spinach. From tetra, four, and gonia, an angle ; in allusion to the fruit being four-angled. Nat. Ord. Ficoir decs. Plants not worth cultivating, except T. ex- pansa, which is grown as a substitute for Summer Spinach. See New Zealand Spinach. Tetragoni'aceae. A natural order included un- der Ficoidece as a sub-order. Tetrane'ma. From tetra, four, and nema, a fila- ment; the genus is characterized by having four stamens. Nat. Ord. ScrophulariaceoB. T. Mexicana, the Mexican Fox-glove, is a very pretty, dwarf, perennial plant, blooming all summer. The flowers are purplish-violet, variegated with a paler color. It has been in cultivation since 1843, and is readily increased by seeds or by divisions. Tetra'pterys. From tetra, four, and pteron, a wing ; the carpels are each four- winged. Nat. Ord. MalpighiaeecB. A large genus of generally climbing, plant- stove shrubs, natives of tropical America. The flowers are yellow or reddish and borne in umbels or racemes, often panicled and gen- erally terminal. Several species have been introduced, but they are difficult to bloom in cultivation. Tetraquetrous. Having four very sharp and almost winged corners or angles. Tetrastichous. Having a four-cornered spike. Tetrathe'ca. From tetra four, and theke, a cell ; the anthers are sometimes four-celled. Nat. Ord. Tremandracece. A genus of nearly twenty species of very pretty, small, green-house plants, natives of Australia. They resemble Heaths in general appearance and require the same treatment. Propagation is effected by cuttings of the young wood when partially firm. T. verticil- lata is now called Platytheca galioides. Teu'crium. Germander, Wood Sage. Named after Teucer, a Trojan prince, who first used it medicinally. Nat. Ord. Labiatce. Hardy, half-hardy and tender perennial, bi- ennial, annual and shrubby plants, the smaller kinds of which are suitable for rock-work. Some of the kinds are showy border flowers, and others handsome, green-house shrubs, par- ticularly those that are natives of Madeira. T. Betonicum is, perhaps, one of the best of these, as it has loose spikes of fragrant crim- son flowers. T. Canadense, American Ger- mander, is common in low grounds, along THA fence-rows or waste places. It is a species that will become troublesome if not extermi- nated. It is not worthy a place in the garden. Teysma'nnia. Named in honor of J. E. Teys- mann, directoi of the botanic garden at Buit- enzorg, Java, by whom T. albifrovs, the sole representative of the genus, was discovered. Nat. Ord. PalmacecB. As a genus it is closely allied to Corypha, from which it differs mainly in habit, its leaves bearing more resemblance in shape to those of the Musa than to either of the ordi- nary forms of Palm leaves. The inhabitants of Sumatra call this Palm the Beluwan or Bel- awan, and use its leaves for thatching their houses, for which, from their large size and entire form, they are admirably adapted. Texan Pride. A local name for Phlox Drum- mondii. Thalamus. The receptacle in a flower; the part on which the carpels are placed. Tha'lia. Named in honor of J. Thalius, a Ger- man physician. Nat. Ord. ScitaminecB. A small genus of aquatic plants, natives of South Carolina and the West Indies. T. deal- bata is one of the most stately of all hardy aquatics, quite different from the Cannas, to which, however, it is closely related. It is a native of South Carolina, and its glaucous foliage, and elegant panicles of purple flowers, render it a most desirable plant for the cool aquarium with the various Nymphceas, Carinas, Cyperus, Papyrus and other water plants. Thali'ctrum. Meadow Kue. From thallo, to grow green ; in allusion to the color of the young shoots. Nat. Ord. Ranunculacem. A genus of hardy, herbaceous plants, com- mon throughout the United States and Europe. None of our native species have been much introduced into the flower garden, although many of them are worthy of a place there. T. alpinum is a dwarf species with white or yellow flowers, and makes a pretty plant for rock- work. There are several of the species that are grown for the same purpose. T. aquilegi- folium, a native of Austria, is a very pretty border plant, with light purple flowers. It is propagated by division or from seeds. T. adiantifolium and T. minus are most desirable species, forming compact tufts from twelve to eighteen inches high, very symmetrical and of a slightly glaucous hue. They may be grown altogether for their leaves, which are pretty enough to pass, when mingled with cut flowers, for some of the finer species of Maiden-hair Ferns; they are, moreover, stiffer and more lasting than Fern fronds. For this purpose, the flower stems, which appear in May and June, should be pinched off to encourage the growth of the leaves. T. tuberosum grows about nine inches high. In addition to its graceful foliage it has an addi- tional beauty in the abundant mass of yellow- ish, cream-colored flowers which it produces. T. anemonoides is the Kue Anemone, one of the most charming, as well as one of the earliest of our native spring flowers. Thallogens. A name applied by Lindley and others to comprise those cryptogams which are extremely simple in their structure, and exhibit nothing like the green leaves of the phoenogams. They include the two vast tribes AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 451 THA of Algce and Fungi, of which latter the Lichens are a sub-division. Tha'llus. A fusion of root, stem and leaves into one general mass; the cellular mass of ■which the lower cryptogamous plants are en- tirely composed. Thamno'pteris. Derivation of name not given. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. A small genus of bold, evergreen Ferns, with simple fronds, having the general appear- ance of Asplenium. The typical species is often called Bird's-nest Fern, and has been severally classed as Asplenium nidus and Neottopteris vulgaris. The species are indige- nous to the East Indies, the Pacific Islands and to Australia. Tha'psia. So called from the Island of Thapsos. Nat. Ord. UmbellifercB. A small genus of perennial herbs, natives of the Mediterranean regjpn and Madeira. The only species of interest is T. garganica, the Drias-plant, celebrated among the Moors for its healing qualities. The roots of T. edulis are eaten in Madeira. Syn. Monizia. Thatch Palms. A native name for various spe- cies of Sabal, Euterpe, Thrinax, etc. Thea. Tea. From Tcha, the Chinese name for Tea. Nat. Ord. TernstromiacecB. Thea and Camellia belong to the same natu- ral order, and there is so little difference between the two, botanically, that they were formerly classed as one. Besides the well- known Tea plant, there are but five species, all natives of India, China and Japan. They are all evergreens, either shrubs or small trees, with thick, shining leaves and white or rose-colored flowers. We are indebted to the "Treasury of Botany" for the following con- cise history of this plant : '* The native coun- try of the Tea plant, like that of many others which have long been cultivated by man, is uncertain. Hitherto the only country in which it has been found in a really wild state is Upper Assam ; but China, where it has for so many centuries been most extensively cul- tivated, has not yet received so thorough an exploration by botanical travelers as to war- rant the assertion that it is not indigenous to any part of that vast empire. A Japanese tradition, however, which ascribes its intro- duction into China to an Indian Buddhist priest, who visited that country in the sixth century, favors the supposition of its Indian origin. It was at one time commonly sup- posed that the two well-marked sorts of Tea, Black and Green, were the produce of distinct species ; but Mr. Fortune has proved that the Chinese manufacture the different kinds indis- criminately from the same plant ; and botan- ists are now pretty generally agreed that the two supposed Chinese species, called T. Bohea and T. viridis, are nothing more than varieties of one and the same species, for which the Linnsean name, T. Chinensis, is adopted, and of which the Assam Tea plant (sometimes called T. Assamica) is merely a third variety, 01 perhaps, indeed, the wild type. Botanists have again relegated them to Camellia, under the name of C. theifera. Though the produce of the same variety of the Tea plant, the Black and Green Teas prepared for exporta- tion are mainly the growth of different dis- tricts of China, the Black Tea district being situated in the provinces of Fokien and THE Kiangsi, and the Green in Chekiang and Ngan- whi ; but the two kinds may be produced in either district, the difference being caused solely by the diverse methods of preparation. For the manufacture of Black Tea, the freshly- gathered leaves, freed from extraneous moist- ure by a short exposure in the open air, are thrown, in small quantities at a time, into round, flat iron pans, and exposed to gentle fire-heat for about five minutes, which ren- ders them soft and pliant, and causes them to give off a large quantity of moisture. After this they are emptied out into bamboo sieves, and while still hot, repeatedly squeezed and rolled in the hands to give them their twist or curl. They are next shaken out into large screens and placed in the open air in the shade for two or three days ; and finally exposed in iron pans to a slow and steady fire-heat until completely dried, care being taken to keep them in constant motion to prevent burning. The chief difference in the manufacture of genuine Green Tea consists in the leaves being so long exposed to the air after rolling that fermentation does not take place, and in not being subjected to such a high tempera- ture in the final drying ; but the greater part, if not the whole, of the Green Tea consumed in Europe and America is colored artificially by the Chinese to suit foreign trade. The Chinese distinguish a great number of varie- ties of Tea, some of which sell for $12.50 per pound; but these fine kinds will not bear a sea voyage, and are used only by the wealth- ier classes in China and Russia, to which country they are carried overland. In ordi- nary commerce four kinds of Black and six of Green Tea are recognized ; but the difference between them consists chiefly in size, the sev- eral kinds being obtained by sifting. " The Agricultural Department at Washington has distributed hundreds of thousands of Tea plants in different sections of the Southern States, and experiments at this date of writing are still under way, with little hope of its introduction being of any advantage to the economic industry of the country. Theca. A spore case ; a sac, tube, shell, or any kind of case containing spores. Theobro'ma. Chocolate Tree. Linnaaus named this tree from Theos, a god, and broma, food ; poetically, food for the gods. Chocolate is the Mexican name of the beverage made from the pounded seeds. Nat. Ord. Sterculiacece. T. Cacao, the important species of this genus, is a native of the West Indies and Central and South America. It is a beautiful tree, growing from twelve to sixteen feet high ; the leaves are lanceolate, oblong, bright green; the flowers are small, reddish and quite in- odorous. The fruit is smooth, of a yellow or red tinge, from six to ten inches in length, and about three inches in diameter ; the rind is fleshy, about half an inch in thickness; within the flesh is a white substance of the consistence of butter, separating from the rind when ripe, and adhering only to it by fila- ments, which penetrate it and reach to the seeds. Hence it is known when the seeds are ripe by the rattling of the capsule when shaken. The pulp has a sweet and not unpleasant taste, with a slight acidity. It is sucked and eaten raw by the natives. The seeds are about seventy-five in number. When fresh they are of a flesh-color ; gathered before being quite 152 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS THE ripe, they make a delicious preserve. The tree bears leaves, flowers and fruit all the year through; but the principal seasons for gathering the fruit are June and December. When ripe, the fruit turns yellow outside and is then gathered by hand and afterward split open and the seeds removed. They are then made to undergo a slight amount of fermen- tation, or sweating, lasting from one to two days, for the purpose of developing their color, and are afterwards exposed to the sun daily for about two weeks, or until they are thor- oughly dry, when they are packed for exporta- tion. Theophra'sta. Named after Theophrastus, the father of Natural history. Nat. Ord. Myrsin- acece. A small genus of tropical shrubs, with un- branched stems, bearing on the top tufts of holly-like leaves, from the axils of some of which the racemes of flowers are produced. Several of the species are in cultivation in the green-house and are highly esteemed for their beautiful foliage. One of the species, T. Jus- sati, a native of San Domingo, yields a seed from which the natives make a kind of bread. Young plants are obtained from seeds or from cuttings. Introduced in 1818. The showy foliaged species, T. vmperialis, is now placed under Chrysophyllum, which see. Thermo'psis. From Thermos, a Lupin, and opsis, resemblance ; the species are not un- like Lupines. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A genus of North Asiatic and American hardy, perennial plants, with palmate, downy leaves, and yellow flowers in terminal clus- ters. T. montana, a native species, and T. lanceolata, from Siberia, are both in cultiva- tion. They are increased most readily by seeds. Thespe'sia. From thespesios, divine. T. po- pulnea is frequently planted about churches in the tropics. Nat. Ord. Malvacem. A small genus of tall herbs or trees found in Madagascar, the West Indies, South Amer- ica and the Pacific Islands. T. populnea, the best known species, a common tree on the sea-shores of most eastern tropical countries, forms a tree forty or fifty feet high, with a dense head of foliage, on account of which it is called the Umbrella Tree in some coun- tries, and is often planted for the sake of its shade and for forming avenues. Its leaves are large and pointed, and its very showy flowers are yellow in color, changing to pur- ple. The wood is considered almost inde- structible under water, and is therefore used largely for boat-building, its durability also rendering it valuable for cabinet-making and building purposes. Theve'tia. Named after Andr. Thevet, a French monk, who travelled in Brazil and Guiana. Nat. Ord. Apocynacece. A small genus of shrubs or small trees, found from Paraguay to Mexico. The flow- ers are yellow, borne in large, terminal cymes. Three species are in cultivation, but are found only in large collections. They are propa- gated by cuttings. Syn. Cerbera. Thibau'dia. Named in honor of Thiebaut de Berneaud, Secretary of the Linnsean Society of Paris, and a botanical writer. Nat. Ord. Vacciniacece. THO A beautiful genus of evergreen shrubs, in- habiting Peru and New Grenada, a few spe- cies being also found in the East Indies. They have thick, leathery leaves, and axillary racemes of very handsome, tubular flowers, mostly scarlet, sometimes tipped with green or yellow. But few of the species are under cultivation. Thimble-berry. See Rubus occidentalis. Thin Grass. Agrostis perennis. Thistle. A common name for the species of Carduus, Cnicus, and other plants. Blessed or Holy. Carduus benedictus and Sity' bum Marianum. Canada or Cursed. Cirsium arvense. Cotton. Onopordon Acanthium. Fish-bone or Herring-bone. Chamcepeuce Co* saboncB. Fuller's. Dipsacus Fullonum. Globe. Echinops sphcerocephalus. Golden. Scolymus Hispanicus. Hedgehog. The genus Echinocactus. Melon. The genus Melocactus. Milk or Our Lady's. Silybum (Carduus) Mari- anum. Musk. Carduus nutans. Saffron. Carthamnus tinctorius. Scotch. See Scotch Thistle. Sow. Sonchus oleraceus. Star. Centaurea Calcitrapa. Torch. The genus Cereus. Yellow. Argemone Mexicana. Thistle on Thistle. Onopordon Acanthium. Thladia'ntha. From thladias, compressed, and anthe, a flower ; owing, it is said, to the plant being first described from a pressed specimen. Nat. Ord. CucurbitacecB. T. dubia, introduced from China in 1864, is a handsome perennial with long, climbing stems, bearing a profusion of bright yellow flowers, together with heart-shaped leaves of an agree- able, lively green color. It may be effectually employed for covering arbors, trellises, etc. Thla'spi. From thlas, to bruise, the seeds being bruised as a condiment. Nat. Ord. Cruciferm. T. latifolium is a dwarf but vigorous peren- nial, with large root-leaves and flowers some- what like Arabis albida, but larger. It is suit- able for the front row of the herbaceous border, or for the rock garden, and is increased by division or by seed. None of the other species- are worth cultivating. Thoma'sia. Named in memory of Peter and Abraham Thomas, collectors of Swiss plants- in the time of Haller. Nat. Ord. Sterculiacem. A genus of beautiful green-house shrubs, natives of the southwestern districts of Aus- tralia, having purple, bluish or white flowers, and often lobed or cut leaves. The genus comprises over twenty species, of which five or six are valued as elegant green-house plants, and have very much the general appearance of some species of Solanum. Thomas's (St.) Tree. Bauhinia variegata and B. tomentosa. Thomso'nia. Named in honor of Dr. A. T. Thompson, author of "An Introduction to Botany." Nat. Ord. Aroidem. A genus of two species of ornamental stove- house plants, natives of the Himalayas and Khasya Mountains. The leaves are very much divided, and the stems are irregularly spotted TEOSINTE (EUCHL-ENA). TIGBIDIA GBANDIFLOBA ALBA. TRTTONT A A TTRV a mu i nrc^ a lOrwww a TrTTiT' a i AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 453 THO and mottled with brown. They require the same culture as the Caladium. Syn. Pytho- nium. Thorn. A common name for various species of Acacia, Crataegus, etc. Thorn. American Black or Pear. Crataegus tomentosa. Christ's. Paliurus aculeatus and Ziziphus Spina- Chri8ti. Garland, Paliurus aculeatus. Goat's. Astragalus Tragacantha. Jerusalem. Parkinsonia aculeata. — Sea Buck, or Willow. Hippophca rhamnoides. Wait-a-bit. Uncaria procumbens. Thorn Apple. See Datura. Thorough- wax. Buplerum rotundifolium. Thorough-wort. Eupatorium perfoliatum. Thoui'nia. Named in honor of Andre Thouin, Professor of Agriculture, at Paris, 1747-1824. Nat. Ord. Sapindacew. A genus of shrubby plants, sometimes climb- ing, natives of tropical America. T. pinnata, the only species introduced, is cultivated in the stove-house, and is an erect-growing plant with white flowers, disposed in terminal panicles. It is increased by cuttings of the ripened wood, and was introduced from St. Domingo in 1823. Three-leaved Night-shade. Hum. Three-seeded Mercury. Three-thorned Acacia. Gleditschia triacanthos. The genus Tril- Acalypha Virginica. The Honey Locust. Thrift. See Armeria vulgaris. Thri'nax. From thrinax, a fan ; the shape of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Palmacem. A genus of very beautiful West Indian Palms, • commonly called, in Jamaica, Thatch Palms, from their leaves being used for thatching. One of the species, T. argentea, the Silver Thatch Palm, furnishes the leaves which, cut before they expand, are used in the manufact- ure of Palm-leaf hats or chip hats. This is a beautiful and ornamental species, and is a great favorite in all collections of green-house Palms. T. Barbadensis, T. radiata (syn. T. elegans), T. elegantissima and T. graminea, are all elegant, neat-growing Fan Palms, and of easy management. They were first introduced in 1800, and are increased by imported seeds. Throat-wort. See Trachelium. Applied also to Campanula Cervicaria and Digitalis purpurea. Thuja. The adopted spelling now is Thuya, which see. Thunbe'rgia. Named in honor of Charles P. Thunberg, a celebrated botanist and traveler. Nat. Ord. Acanthaceaz. A genus of very handsome, climbing plants. Some of the species, such as T. alata, T. alba, T. aurantiaca, and the varieties of the same, may be treated as half-hardy annuals. They usually seed freely ; the seed should be sown in March in heat, bringing the young plants forward in the same temperature till May, when they may either be transferred to the borders of the flower-garden to be trained against a wall, or suffered to creep over rock- work, or they may be placed in large pots having a trellis attached, where they form very ornamental subjects for the green-house through the summer. The remaining species, THU as they do not produce seed in any quantity, require to be grown in the green-house. They should be frequently syringed to keep down attacks of red spider. At the end of the growing season they should be pruned closely back and kept dormant through the winter. The green-house species, T. chrysops, however, does better when allowed to grow on without pruning, nor should it be re-potted more than once a year, or it will not flower. The pure white, T. fragrans, is a free-growing green-house species, and its flowers are last- ing and very sweet. T. laurifolia (syn. T. Har- risii), with flowers tubular in form and two inches in length, of a bright porcelain blue, with yellow throat, is one of the best green- house climbers we have. It is a rapid grower and blooms in profusion from November to May, its rare blue color making it one of the most attractive green-house, climbing plants. The beautiful, climbing, green-house plant, known in cultivation as Hexacentris Mysormsis, is by some botanists placed under this genus. Meyenia erecta, introduced from western Africa in 1857, has also been placed here, though both are better known in cultivation by the names given above, and under which we have de- scribed them in this work. Thu'nia. Derivation of name not given. Nat. Ord. Orchidaceai. A small genus of Orchids from tropical Asia, formerly referred to Phajus, from which genus they are, however, readily distinguished by their growth, and by several other differences of a botanical character. T. alba is one of the best known species ; the stems of this plant are round and usually about two feet high, clothed with leaves from the base upwards. The flowers are produced on a short, terminal raceme just as growth is finished ; the sepal and petals are pure white ; lip white, beauti- fully pencilled along the centre with purple and lilac. The species require to be grown in considerable heat and treated liberally with water. They do better when grown in pots than on blocks. Thu'ya. Arbor Vitas. From thyon, a sacrifice ; the rosin of the Eastern variety is used instead of incense at sacrifices. Nat. Ord. Coniferm. This well-known genus of evergreens in- cludes some of the most beautiful and useful evergreen shrubs we have in cultivation, not only for single plants for the lawn, but for hedges, either high or low, for which they are most admirably adapted. The common Arbor Vitas, T. occidentalis, is the parent of most of the varieties grown for ornamental purposes. It is common from New York to Maine, in moist or swampy lands. In some localities it makes a tree of considerable size, valuable for the timber it yields, known as White Cedar. Of this species there is a beautiful sport, of globular form, with golden, green foliage, known as Parson's Arbor Vitas. It is of slow growth, broad and compact, and suitable for cemeteries or any situation where a beautiful evergreen is wanted. Hovey's Arbor Vitas is a seedling from the common Arbor Vitas. Its dwarf, compact habit of growth makes it a splendid plant for growing in tubs for winter decoration. There are other varieties, with golden foliage, which are very beautiful. The Siberian Arbor Vitas is one of the best for hedges or lawns. It is perfectly hardy, has a deeper color, is more compact, and in most 454 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS THU respects is more desirable than the common sort. Where, when, or how this species or variety originated is unknown to the best au- thority we have on evergreens, Josiah Hoopes, who claims it to be a variety of T. occidentalis. That it did not come from Siberia, as its name would indicate, is certain. There are several from the Pacific coast and from China. T. orientalis (syn. Biota), known as the Chinese Arbor Vitee, is peculiar from its flattened branches. Thirty years ago, when^at bouquets were in fashion, this was used almost exclu- sively as a ' 'back " or " frame " for the flowers, and is yet in some parts of the country used for that purpose. There are a number of seedling varieties, differing considerably in habit, form and shades of color of foliage, all desirable and well adapted for ornamental purposes. Thuyo'psis. From thuya and opsis, a resem- blance ; referring to the affinity of the genus. Nat. Ord. ConifercB. T. dolobrata, the only species, a beautiful, tall, evergreen tree, with vigorous, horizontal branches, pendulous at the extremities, was introduced from Japan about 1860. Its varie- gated variety is very attractive ; the branchlets being flat and silvery beneath, make it look like a Lycopodium. T. borealis is now placed under Cupressus as ft Nutkcensis, the Nookka Sound Cupressus. Thyme. See Thymus. Thymelaeaceae. A natural order of shrubs or small trees, remarkable for the great tenacity of their inner bark. There are about forty genera and over three hundred species, a few of them found in the northern hemisphere, rather more common within the tropics, but most abundant in South Africa and Australia. The order includes these well-known genera : Daphne, Pimelia, Gnidia, Lagetta and Struthiola. Thymophy'lla aurea. A neat little annual composite from Colorado, of dwarf habit, forming a branching tuft about nine inches in diameter and four inches high. The flow- ers are in terminal heads, about half an inch across, resembling a single Marigold with a bright yellow ray and disk. It is of easy culture and prefers a rather dry soil. Syn. Lowellia aurea. Thy'mus. Thyme. From thumoSj courage, strength, the smell of Thyme being reviv- ing, or from thuo, to perfume ; being formerly used for incense in the temples. Nat. Ord. Labiatm. T. vulgaris, the Common or G-arden Thyme, a native of Spain and Italy, is recorded to have been introduced to Britain in 1548. Its uses are well known. In the south of France an essential oil distilled from it is exported and sold as Marjoram-oil, for which it is sub- stituted. The Romans were well acquainted with Thyme, which was one of the plants recommended to be grown for the sake of bees. There are probably a hundred acres of Thyme grown in the vicinity of New York, and dried for flavoring purposes. The broad-leaved, spreading variety is the kind used, the upright being useless for this purpose. The seed is thickly sown as soon as the ground gets warm in spring, and the plants are transplanted in July, in rows one foot apart, with nine inches between the plants. The crop matures by October of the year it is planted. It is com- mon throughout Europe, and has to some TIG extent become naturalized in this country. The Lemon-scented Thyme is a hardy, dwarf, trailing evergreen, possessing the most agree- able perfume of any of the species. It is a variety of T. serpyllum, known as T. citrio- dorus, and is very distinct in appearance from the wild form. The branches root at the joints as they trail along the ground. It is used for the same purposes as the other spe- cies, and is found to attain its greatest per- fection when grown in dry, sandy soil. Its gold and silver variegated-leaved varieties are much used in ribbon bordering, and are admirable plants for hanging baskets and rustic stands. Thyrsaca'nthus. Thyrse-Flower. From thyr. sos, a thyrse, and Acanthus. Nat. Ord. Acan-^ thacem. A fine genus of hot-house plants, containing a number of shrubs or herbs, natives of tropi- cal America. They have large leaves, and red fascicled or cymose flowers, in a long, termi- nal raceme. T. Schomburgkianus, much better known in cultivation as T. rutilans, intro- duced from New Grenada in 1855, is one of the finest, and is highly prized for its long racemes of carmine-scarlet flowers. T. calli- stachys (syn. Justicia lilacina), T. nitidus (syn. Justicia nitida) and T. strictus (Justicia longi- racemosa of gardens) are all desirable and beautiful green-house species. They require the same treatment as Justicia. Thyrse, Thyrsiform. A kind of dense panicle like that of the Lilac. Thyrse Flower. See Thyrsacanthus. Thyrso'pteris. From thyrsos, a bunch or ra- ceme, and pleris, a Fern ; alluding to the con- tracted, fertile portion of the fronds. Nat. Ord. Polypodiaceoz. T. elegans, the only species, is a very hand- some Fern, not unlike a robust-growing DavaU lia. The fronds grow from four to six feet long, one-third of which is naked, and are of a brilliant green color. They are remarkable for producing on the same frond, distinct, contracted, fertile and leafy barren portions. It was introduced from Juan Fernandez in 1854, and requires the same treatment as the Davallia. Thysano'tus. From thysanotos, fringed ; the three inner sepals being fringed. Nat. Ord. LiliacecB. A small genus of green-house, herbaceous perennials from New South Wales, producing singular, purple, Iris-shaped flowers on slen- der scapes about a foot high. They are not much cultivated. Introduced in 1823. Tiare'lla. From tiara, a Persian diadem ; allud- ing to the shape of the capsules. Nat. Ord. Saxifragaceai. A small genus of hardy, perennial plants, natives chiefly of the United States, one, how- ever, being found in the Himalayas. T. cordis folia, False Mitre-wort, the most common species, resembles Mitella in general appear- ance and is well suited for the rock-work or herbaceous border. Tick Seed. The genus Coreopsis. Tick Trefoil. See Desmodium. Tiger Flower or Tiger Iris. See Tigridia. Tiger Lily. Lilium tigrinum. Ti'glium. A genus now included under Croton. AND GENEEAL HORTICULTURE. 455 TIC Tico'rea. The name of T. fatida in Guiana. Nat. Ord. Rvtacece. A small genus of trees or shrubs, natives of Brazil and Guiana. T. foztida and T. jasmini- Jlora, both bearing white, rather showy flowers, have been introduced, but are seldom found in cultivation. Tigri'dia. Tiger flower. From tigris, a tiger, and eidos, like; in reference to the spotted flowers. Nat. Ord. Iridaceaz. A small genus of very beautiful Mexican bulbs, introduced in 1796. The flowers are indeed remarkable; and though they are of very short duration, lasting only about half the day, they are produced in such abundance in succession as to make their culture desir- able and interesting. One plant will continue flowering for two or three months in succes- sion, and during the whole of that time will make a splendid display in the garden. Of the several species or varieties introduced into cultivation there are but two that succeed really well, and they rarely, if ever, fail of producing an abundance of flowers ; these are T. conchiflora, with yellow flowers, and T. pav- onia, with bright, dark orange-red flowers. T. p. grandiflora, a variety of the preced- ing, has larger flowers of the same color. Each of these is spotted, characteristic of the order. T. p. grandiflora alba has large flowers of a pearl-white color, marked at the base of each divison with large, reddish-brown or chestnut-colored spots, on a yellow ground, forming a fine contrast with the white petals. They grow freely with ordinary garden cul- ture, preferring a light, rich and moist soil, and will not succeed in a very dry situation. These bulbs flower during the rainy season in Mexico, and they consequently require con- siderable water when under cultivation. The bulbs require to be taken up soon after the first frost, tied up in bunches of convenient size, without cutting off the stems, and hung up in any dry room free from frost, where they can remain until the time for re-planting. A place must be selected where they cannot be reached by mice, which are very destruc- tive to the bulbs. Tile-root. See Geissorhiza. Ti'lia. Basswood, Linden. The old Latin name used by Virgil and Pliny. In Dutch it is called Linden, in Anglo-Saxon, Lind, and in English, Lime Tree. Nat. Ord. Tiliacece. A genus of tall-growing, deciduous trees, common throughout this country and Europe. The European Linden, T. Europcea, has larger leaves than our native species, and is the one that is usually planted as an ornamental tree. T. Americana grows to a great size in this country, and furnishes a large amount of lumber, used chiefly in cabinet work. It is soft, of a reddish tinge, and unfit for work requiring strength, or where it is exposed to the weather. This is the species so exten- sively used as a street tree at Washington, D. C, where it luxuriates. T. heterophylla has larger leaves than the preceding ; they are smooth and bright green above, and silvery white underneath. It does not grow to so great a size, but the lumber is far more valu- able, being almost pure white, and works more easily and smoother. The two species are designated as Red and White Basswood. The inner bark of the Linden is popularly TIM known as Bass, and was formerly much used for tying, but is now almost entirely super- seded by Raffia, which see. Tilia'ceae. A natural order of trees or shrubs, closely allied to Malvacem and Sterculiacem, from which it is chiefly distinguished by the stamens. The species are numerous, espe- cially within the tropics, though found dis- persed over both the northern and southern temperate regions. Several of the species furnish good cord. Jute is manufactured from the bark of Corchorus capsularis, and the Tilia Europ&a, or Linden, furnishes the Rus- sian or Archangel mats. Tilla'ndsia. Long Moss, Black Moss, Gray Moss and Florida Moss. Named in honor of Elias Tillands, Professor of Medicine at Abo, Sweden. Nat. Ord. Bromeliacece. An interesting genus of epiphytal plants, natives of the United States from the Caro- linas and southward, the West Indies and South America. They generally grow upon trees in dense forests. " Some of these plants serve as reservoirs for water, which flows down the channeled leaves; these are dilated at the base, so as to form a bottle-like cavity capable of holding a pint or more. Travelers tap these vegetable pitchers for the sake of the grateful fluid they contain. T. utriculata, a native of Jamaica, and many others, have this desirable property of stor- ing up water. Dr. Gardner, in his ' Travels in. Brazil,' relates that a certain species of Utricularia grows only in the water collected in the bottom of the leaves of a large Tilland- sia. The aquatic plant throws out runners, which direct themselves to the nearest Til- landsia, and there form new plants; and in this way no less than six Tillandsias may sometimes be seen connected together." All the species delight in abundant sunlight, a high temperature, and plenty of water during summer. In winter they should only get enough water to keep the soil moist. They are exceedingly beautiful when in flower, T. carinata, T. Morreni, T. psittacina, T. splendens and T. Lindeni being perhaps the most richly colored of the genus. A number of species belonging to Guzmannia, Allartia, Bonapartea, Platystachya, Pitcairnia, Vriesia, etc., are now included by Hooker and Bentham under this genus, which contains over one hundred and twenty species. Florida Moss is T. usneoides, and grows as far north as the Dismal Swamp in Virginia. It is collected in great quanti- ties, steeped in water, or buried in the earth, until the outer surface is rotted off, when it leaves a dark, coarse, tough fibre, not unlike horse-hair, which is used for stuffing cush- ions, mattresses, and various forms of uphol- stery. This moss, as gathered, is used to ornament frames or rustic work in drawing- rooms, and for these and other ornamental purposes large quantities of it are sent annu- ally to all our large cities. In moist rooms, like a conservatory, it will grow very well when thrown loosely over a frame, or sus- pended in any other way. It is a singular circumstance that two such widely different- appearing plants as the " Florida Moss" and the delicious Pineapple should belong to the same natural order. Timothy. Herd's Grass, Phleum pratense, which see. 456 HENDEKSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS TIN Tina'ntia. Named after Tinant, a Belgian bot- anist. Nat. Ord. CommelinacecB. A small genus of herbaceous plants of a somewhat shrubby habit, natives of Central America. T. fugax erecta is a half-hardy per- ennial, closely allied to Tradescantia. It grows well in any garden soil and is most easily increased by seeds. It is found in cul- tivation under the names of Tradescantia erecta, T. latifolia and T. undata. Ti'nnea Named in honor of Mdlle. Tinne, a traveler in Egypt. Nat. Ord. Labiatw. A small genus of woolly, herbaceous plants or small shrubs, natives of tropical Africa. T. JEthopica, the only introduced species, is a hoary, dwarf shrub, bearing fragrant, maroon- purple flowers very freely in short peduncles. ■ It was introduced in 1867 and is readily in- creased by cuttings. Tipula'ria. Crane-Fly Orchis. Named from a fancied resemblance of the flowers to insects of the genus Tipula. Nat. Ord. Orchidacew. A low-growing Orchid, rarely found, a native of the Northern States from Massachusetts to Michigan. The flower scape is from twelve to eighteen inches high, and bears numerous small, greenish flowers tinged with purple. Tissue. The material out of which the elemen- tary organs of plants are constructed, as cells, fibres, membranes, etc. Titho'nia. A name of mythological derivation, from Tithonus, the favorite of Aurora. Nat. Ord. Composite. A small genus of half-hardy annuals, na- tives of Mexico, Central America and Cuba. S. tagetiflora, cultivated for its orange-colored flowers, is easily raised from seeds sown in heat, in spring. Toad Flax. See Linaria. Toad-Flower. African. A common name for several species of Stapelia. Toad Stools. The common name of various species of Fungi, frequently mistaken for Mushrooms. Tobacco. See Nicotiana. Toco'ca. A name used by the natives of Gui- ana, and applied to a genus of Melastomacem, consisting of Brazilian shrubs, whose leaf- stalks have very generally attached to them a kind of bladder, divided longitudinally into two compartments. T. Guianensis is in culti- vation; in its native habitat its fruits are edible, and their juice is sometimes used as ink. The various Sphmrogynes are included by some botanists under this genus. Todda'lia. From Kaka Toddali, the name of T. aculeata in Malabar. A small genus of Ru- tacem,' confined to the tropics of Asia and Africa. T. aculeata is an interesting shrub, widely dispersed through tropical Asia, and extending as far south as the Mauritius. The fresh bark of the roots is said to be used as a cure for the remittent fever caught in the jungles of the Indian hills. Three species have been introduced, which are readily in- creased by cuttings. Toddy Palm. A common name for Caryota urens. To'dea. Named in honor of H. J. Tode, of Mecklenburg, an experienced mycologist. A small genus of Ferns occurring principally in South Africa and New Zealand, having the TOM capsules of Osmunda, but the habit of Poly- podium. They have an erect, sometimes elongated, caudex, and bi-pinnate fronds, which, in the group Todea proper, are thick and firm in texture, as in T. barbara (syn. T. Africana). The group Lepidopteris, all from New Zealand, have pellucid, membranaceous fronds, and are among the most beautiful dwarf Ferns in cultivation. T. superba is a magnificent plant with fronds two to four feet in length. They thrive best in a cool house, facing the north, requiring plenty of shade and moisture, and will even stand a few degrees of frost without injury. Tofie'ldia. False Asphodel. Named after Mr. Tqfield, an English botanist of the last cen- tury. Nat. Ord. LiliacecB. A genus consisting of a few perennial plants, natives of the colder parts of Europe, North America and the regions of the Andes. The three native species have short racemes of whitish flowers, and are found from the pine barrens of New Jersey to Maine, Michi- gan and northward. None of the species have any particular interest or beauty. To'lmiea. Named by Torrey and Gray in honor of Dr. Tolmie, Surgeon of the Hudson's Bay Co. at Puget Sound. Nat. Ord. Saxifragaceaz. T. Menziesii, the only described species, is a hardy, herbaceous plant with a perennial rhizome. The rather large, greenish, nod- ding flowers are borne on a slender, elongated raceme. It propagates naturally and freely by adventitious buds, produced at the junc- tion of the leaf-stalk with the blade, in the manner of Begonias. It is a native of North- west America and has been described under the names of both Tiarella and Heuchera Men- ziesii. Tol'pis. Named by Adanson, probably without any meaning. Nat. Ord. Composite. A genus of pretty, hardy, annual or peren- nial plants, natives of the Mediterranean region and the Canary Islands. Several species are in cultivation, and are well suited for the ornamental border, where the seeds can be sown in spring. Tolu Balsam Tree. The common name for Myroxylon Toluiferum, which see. Tomato. Lycopersicumesculentum. The Tomato was first introduced into England in 1596, and it was for many years grown only as an ornamental plant, or for its medicinal pro- perties. It was then known by the common name of Love Apple. The " Virtues " of the Tomato were described as follows by Pai-kin- inson in 1629 : " In hot countries, where they naturally growe, they are much eaten of the people, to cool and quench the heate and thirst of their hot stomaches. The Apples are also boyled, or infused in oyle in the sunne." The Tomato was first used as a vegetable in Italy, and soon after in France and England ; it is, however, but comparatively little grown in the open air in England, as their summers are not warm enough to ripen the fruit to anything like perfection ; but it is a favorite fruit there grown under glass. The Tomato has not been in general use in this country for more than fifty years, and most of our choice varieties are of recent introduction. New varieties, obtained by selection, are offered annually, each one claiming to be superior in AND GENEKAL HORTICULTURE. 457 TOM earliness and productiveness ; the varieties of late introduction are undoubtedly superior to the older sorts, earliness and solidity being the great desiderata. Tomatoes are now ex- tensively grown for canning, and many thousands of acres are used in growing them for that purpose. They are also forced advan- tageously for winter use, bringing good prices till the crop from Florida comes in. Tomato. Cannibal's. Solarium anthropopha- gorum. Tomato. Strawberry. See Physalis Alkekengi. Tomentose. Covered with dense, rather short, rigid hairs, so as to be sensibly perceptible to the touch. Tonga Plant. See Epipremnum. Tongue Grass. A common name for Lepidium sativum. Tongue-shaped. Long, flat, but thickish and blunt ; like the leaves of some Aloes. Tonguin or Tonga Bean. See Dipterix odorata. Toothache Grass. See Otenium Americanum. Toothache Tree. See Xanthoxylum. Toothed. Dentate ; having small divisions on the margin. Tooth-violet. The popular name of Dentaria bulbifera. Tooth-wort. A common name for Lathrcea, also for Dentaria, which see. Top Dressing. See Fertilizers. Torch Lily, Torch Flower. Popular names for Tritoma (Kniphqfia). Torch Thistle. An early name given to various species of Cereus. Tore'nia. In honor of Olof Toren, a Swedish clergyman, who discovered T. Asiatica and other plants in China. Nat. Ord. Scrophulari- acea. A small genus of very beautiful, trailing annuals and perennials, natives of China and the East Indies. For the green-house or con- servatory these plants, with their numerous, dark-purple flowers, are a great attraction. They also succeed well in a moist, shady bor- der, but will not endure our hot, sunny weather. They are all readily increased by cuttings or from seed. T. Fournieri, is an up- right-growing plant of branching and grace- ful habit, with a profusion of beautiful violet flowers. T. Bailloni, introduced in 1878, is an entirely distinct species, having deep-yel- low and maroon-colored flowers. All make excellent basket or vase plants. They must be kept at a temperature, in winter, of not less than 60Q at night, and they are at all times impatient of being chilled. Propagated by seeds or cuttings. Tormenti'lla. A small genus now included un- der Potentilla. Tome'lia. A synonym of Monstera. Torose. Torulose. A cylindrical body, irregu- larly swollen. Torrey'a. Named in honor of Dr. John Torrey, one of the most distinguished of American botanists. Nat. Ord. Coniferce. This genus is a branch of the Tew family, and is represented in this country by T. taxi- folia, a native of Florida, a perfectly hardy J and beautiful species, and one of the most TRA attractive and desirable evergreens. T. Calir fornica is known as the California Nutmeg. Tortilis. Susceptible of twisting. Totara Pine. Podocarpus Totara. Touch-me-not, Balsam, Jewel "Weed, is Impa- tiens Noli-jme-tangere, a marshy plant, common from New York southward. See Impatiens. Tournefo'rtia. In memory of Joseph Pitton de Tournefort, the distinguished author of an arrangement of plants under the title of " In- stitutiones Rei HebarioB," and other botanical works, from 1694 to 1717 ; his first work, the "Institutiones," laid the foundation of the arrangement now followed, called the Jus- sieuan, or Natural System. Nat. Ord. Borag- inacem. A genus of evergreen, twining shrubs in- habiting the tropics of both hemispheres, and extending as far north as the Canaries and Central Russia. T. heliotropioides, from Buenos Ayres, is a very beautiful species, and is occasionally grown for its pale-lilac flowers, which are arranged similar to those of the Heliotrope. It is commonly called the "Hardy Heliotrope," and is easily raised from seeds in spring. Tova'ria. A synonym of Smilacina. Tovomi'ta. From tovomite, the Caribbean name of T. Guianensis. Nat. Ord. Guttiferaz. A genus of shrubs or trees with resinous juice, natives of tropical South America and the West India Islands. Three species have been introduced to cultivation, but are seldom found except in large collections. They are generally propagated by cuttings of the ripened wood in sand. Toxicodendron. From toxicon, poison, and dendron, a tree; alluding to the poisonous nature of the fruit. Nat. Ord. ApocynacecB. A genus of small, rigid, much-branched trees, peculiar to South Africa. T. capense, the only cultivated species, is found princi- pally in botanic gardens. Toxicophlae'a. From toxicon, poison, and phloros, bark ; in allusion to the poisonous bark. A genus of Apocynacem containing one or two species from the Cape of Good Hope. T. spectabilis, introduced in 1872, has the gen- eral appearance of an Ixora, and bears its pure white, exceedingly fragrant flowers in terminal and axillary corymbs, which form a very large, dense spray, often over two feet in length. It is increased readily by cuttings. Trache'lium. Throatwort. From trachelos, the neck ; in allusion to the efficacy of the plant in diseases of the throat; hence the common name Throatwort. Nat. Ord. Cam- panulaceaz. Very pretty, half-hardy, biennial plants, with showy, bell-shaped, blue flowers, varying from very dark blue to nearly white, natives of the Mediterranean coast. It is an elegant plant for vases, and such-like purposes. Seeds should be sown in spring for flowering the next season, and the plants protected by a frame in winter. Trachelospe'rmum. From trachelos, the neck, and sperma, a seed; alluding to the apical elongation of the seed. Nat. Ord. Apocyna- cecB. A small genus of green-house shrubs, na- tives of the East Indies, Eastern Asia and 458 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS TEA Japan. T. Thunbergii, known generally in gardens, where it has long been a favorite, as Rhyncospermum jasminoides, is one of the best plants of its class, and is equally valu- able grown as a specimen pot-plant or as a climber on the rafters or back wall of the green-house. This plant is now a conspicu- ous feature in the gardens of some of the cities of the Southern States. It may be seen in New Orleans climbing to the third stories and completely draping some of the largest houses with its brilliant, lustrous, evergreen leaves; the delicious perfume of the pure white, abundant flowers pervading, during the month of April, the whole atmosphere of the neighborhood. Trachy'mene Coerulea. A synonym for Didis- cus Ccerulea. Tradesca'ntia. Spiderwort. Named in honor of John Tradescant, gardener to Charles First, who introduced the first species to Europe. Nat. Ord. CommelynacecB. An extensive genus of green-house or hardy, herbaceous perennials, natives of North and tropical America. T. Virginica, the common Spider- wort or Widow' s-tears of the gardens, is an interesting, hardy border plant, on ac- count of the continual succession of flowers, which are freely produced all season. It has long, grass-like foliage, and the flowers are borne in terminal clusters on stems, one to two feet in height. Besides the type, which has showy, purple-blue flowers, there are several varieties, one with double violet, one single rose-colored, one single lilac and one with single white blossoms. They may easily be increased by division in spring. Of the tender sorts, T. discolor (syn. Rhoeo) and T. Warscewicziana form stately plants, with the appearance of a Palm or Pandanus, and are excellent centre-plants for vases, hanging baskets, etc. The drooping, or creeping, sorts are also desirable plants for like pur- poses. The species best known as T. zebrina, but which has many aliases (see Zebrina), a native of South America, is largely grown as a basket-plant, and also as a house-plant, thriving best in a moist, shady situation, but succeeding well in the dry atmosphere of the sitting-room. This and the species known as T. repens, and its beautifully white striped variety, T. r. vittata, T. aquatica and others, are among the most generally grown of our house-plants, where they are known as "Wan- dering Jew." They grow freely in water, making a drooping fringe of from two to four feet, and they are used in a variety of forms in the window culture of plants. Cuttings of the green-house species root readily at any season. Tra'gacanth Gum Plant. Astragalus Traga- cantha. Tra'gia. A genus named in honor of Tragus, an ancient German botanist, who, according to the fashion of the times, assumed a classical title, his true name having been Jerome Bock. Nat. Ord. Euphorbiacea. A genus of herbs or shrubs, widely distrib- uted in sub-tropical regions. A few of the species have been introduced, but possess little beauty and are not particularly inter- esting. Tragopo'gon. Goat's Beard. Vegetable Oy- ster. From tragos, a goat, and pogon, a beard ; TEA in allusion to the long, silky beards of the seeds. Nat. Ord. Composite. Ornamental, biennial plants, natives of Eu- rope, the most remarkable of which are T. pratensis, the popular name of which is Go-to- bed-at-noon, from the flowers closing in the middle of the day, and which has large, yel- low flowers and very curious feathery heads of seeds ; and T. porrifolius, the common Sal- sify, or Oyster Plant, which has purple flow- ers, and the roots of which are extensively grown and highly valued as a vegetable. It is a hardy biennial, native of Great Britain and most other parts of Europe. The seeds should be sown early in deep, rich soil. Cult- ure the same as for Carrots or Parsnips. Tragopy'rum. Goat's Wheat. From tragos, a goat, and pyros, wheat. Nat. Ord. Polygona- ceaz. T. lanceolatum, a native of Siberia, is a dwarf, ornamental shrub, about two feet high, with lanceolate leaves, producing spikes of white or pink flowers in July or August. It is the only species under cultivation. In- troduced in 1770. Trailing Arbutus. See Epigma repens. Transplanting. As nearly all fruit and orna- mental trees and shrubs are raised first in nurseries and removed to their position in the orchard, lawn or shrubbery, and as upon the success of the operation the after vigor of the plant or tree, in a great measure, depends, a few hints on this subject may be of interest. The first great requisite to success in all kinds of planting is the proper preparation of the soil. This should be dry, either naturally or made so by thorough draining, and, if done on a large scale, should be well prepared by twice plowing, using the sub-soil plow after the common one at the second plowing. To ensure a good growth, the land should be in as good condition as for a crop of potatoes or corn. Of course the methods of transplant- ing vary considerably, according to different plants and the manner in which their roots are disposed. Trees or shrubs, more espe- cially when received from a nursery, no mat- ter now carefully they may have been lifted, lose a portion of their roots, and conse- quently the balance that existed in the struct- ure of the tree is deranged. This must be re- stored by proper pruning, adapted to the size, form and condition of the tree and the loss it has sustained. When lifting a tree for transplanting, it is best to tie up, with some soft cord, any branches that may be near the base, and to commence digging a trench out- side the line to which it is calculated the roots will reach. Then use a fork from the base of the tree outwards to separate the roots, but preserve as large a ball of earth as it may be convenient to move. All roots which may have been mutilated had better be cut clean off before replanting. Planting. — In planting, holes must be dug large enough to admit of the roots of the tree to spread out in their natural position. The tree being then held in an upright posi- tion, the roots should be carefully spread and covered with the best of the surface-soil, the tree in the meantime being moved gently to enable the soil to fill every interstice and bring every root in contact with the soil. When the earth is partially filled in, a pail of AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 459 TRA water may be thrown in to settle and wash in the earth around the roots. Then fill in the ! remainder and firm gently with the feet. Staking. — If trees are tall and much ex- posed to winds, a stake should be planted with the tree, to which it should be tied in such a manner as to avoid chafing. Large trees may be secured by three or four guys, fastened firmly to stakes. Mulching. — When the tree is planted, mulch it as far as the roots extend, and a foot beyond, with five or six inches of rough manure or litter. This is particularly neces- sary in dry ground, and is highly advanta- geous both in spring and fall planting. It tends greatly to prevent evaporation and to keep the soil moist, even in dry weather. Season for Transplanting. — The advan- tages of planting deciduous shrubs and trees during autumn (say from October 1st to December 1st) admit of no question. As transplanting makes inevitable the cutting or disruption of a large portion of the roots, these cannot throw out new fibres until the broken roots become callused. If this is not completed before the spring drought comes, there is much danger that the plant will either die or have a struggle for life, during the first summer. If planted in autumn, however, the broken roots will not only have time to form a callus, but, as the soil is then warm and congenial, will throw out small fibres which will permanently establish the tree or shrub, and enable it to start with vigor in the spring. If circumstances will not per- mit of planting until spring, it is better to obtain deciduous trees and shrubs in the autumn, heel them carefully in a slanting position, where the callus will form, and they will be ready for planting as soon as the ground is open in spring. Autumn planting is especially necessary with Larches, Japan Quince, Evergreen Thorn and other plants which become excited by the first mild days of spring, and in that condition may die by transplanting. The exceptions are Magno- lias, Tulip Trees, etc., in which there are cer- tain structural conditions which make them succeed best in spring planting. Many Ever- greens may be planted to advantage during September, more especially if the season is a moist one, and the ground in which they are planted is sufficiently near the nursery for them to escape heating or the roots drying out in transit. Herbaceous Perennials. — A large num- ber of the hardy, herbaceous perennials, if properly cared for, can be transplanted with better results in the latter part of summer or autumn than in the spring. All early-flower- ing plants, which start into growth as soon as the snow is off in spring, make their prepara- tion for this the previous autumn. The mid- dle or last of August is about the proper season to transplant such, so that they can finish their autumnal growth when they are to remain through the winter. All such early flowering plants as Violets, Trilliums, Ery- throniums, Cypripediums, etc., are of this class. The various varieties of L. speciosum, L. Washingtonianum, L. Humboldtii, etc., we find to flower better the following season if transplanted early in autumn than if left until their growth had matured or until spring. TRE Tra'pa. Water Caltraps, Water Chestnut. From calcitrapa, an ancient instrument in warfare with four spikes; the fruit of some of the species is armed with four spikes or horns. Nat. Ord. Onogracece. A genus of aquatic plants, natives of Europe, India, China and Japan. They are remarkable for the shape of their seeds, some of which resemble a bullock's head and horns. The seeds of all these plants abound in starch, and are much used as food. Those of T. natans, called Jesuit's Nuts at Venice, are ground into flour and made into bread in some parts of Southern Europe. In Kashmir, and other parts of the East, the large seeds of T. bispinosa, which are sweet and edible, and known under the name of Tinghara Nuts, are common food, and a large portion of the inhabitants subsist on them for several months of the year. Trape'lla Sinensis. This is a highly curious, floating, aquatic plant, the type of a new genus of anomalous structure, referred to the Nat. Ord. Pedaliacem. It bears a strong re- semblance to Trapa in its foliage, but there the resemblance ceases. The small flowers have a funnel-shaped corolla, and the narrow seed-vessels are furnished with usually three long, rigid, hooked appendages, something in the way of the fruit of Martynia, and other members of the same order. It is a native of Ichang and other parts of China and Japan. Trapeziform. Having four sides, the opposite ones not parallel. Trautvette'ria. A name given by some botan- ists to Cimicifuga, or Aetata palmata. Traveler's Joy. A common name for Clematis vitalba. Traveler's Tree. A name given to the Urania 8peciosa of Madagascar. Treacle Mustard. Erysimum cheiranthoides and Lepidium campestre. Tread-softly, Spurge Nettle. See Jatropha urens. Treasure Flower. A common name for 6?«- zania. Tree Fern. A common name for Ferns with a tree-like stem, as many species of Ateophila, Dicksonia, Cyathea, etc. Tree Mallow. Lavatera arborea. Tree of Chastity. Tree of Heaven. Vitex Agnus-castus. See Ailantus. Tree of Sadness. Nyctanthes arbor-tristis. Tree of the Sun. A Japanese name for Retinos- pora obtusa. Trefoil. See Trifolium. Bird's-foot. Lotus corniculatus. Crimson. Trifolium incanum. Yellow. Medicago lupulina. Trema'ndra. From tremo, to tremble, and an* dros, a male ; the anthers vibrate with the least movement of the air. Nat. Ord. Tre- mandracecB. This genus consists of but two known spe- cies, both small green-house shrubs, natives of New Holland. They are delicate plants, covered with stellate down, and have axillary purple flowers. They are but rarely culti- vated, except T. verticillata, which is a very beautiful plant, and has long been a favorite 460 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS TBE in choice collections. See Tetratheca and Platytheca. Tremandra'ceae. A small order of heath-like shrubs, all Australian, with small, entire leaves often verticillate, and red, blue, or rarely white flowers, on slender axillary ped- icels. The order contains three genera and over twenty species. Trenching. This is a means of preparing the soil but little practiced in the United States, though still much in use in old English gar- dens. It consists in making a trench from one and a half to two feet deep, and of nearly the same width, the earth from which is wheeled to the rear of the ground to be trenched ; then a line is set across the bed to the width of the excavation (one and a half or two feet, as it may be) ; the top spit of this is thrown in the bottom of the trench, the under part being thrown on the top; in a word, trenching is simply reversing the soil, turn- ing it upside down to such a depth as may be decided on. The practice is proper enough in soils that are deep enough ; but when trench- ing is practiced in say a top soil only twelve inches deep, and a clayey sub-soil is thrown on the top, or even mixed well with the top soil, injury may be done to the soil from which it will never recover. A sub-soil of sand is not quite as bad thrown on the top or mixed with the soil, but in either case the sub- soil should only be loosened, as in sub-soiling (which see), and allowed to remain without being mixed with or thrown on the top of the soil proper. Treve'sia. Called after the family Treves de Bonfigli, at Padua, who were supporters of botanical research. Nat. Ord. Araliacece. A genus, numbering eight or nine species, natives of tropical Asia and the Malayan Archi- pelago. T. eminens and T. palmata, the best known species, have beautiful, large, palmate, or pinnately-divided, leaves, and make very ornamental plants for a warm conservatory, and are propagated easily by cuttings. Syn. Gastonia. Trevo'a. Named in honor of Trevo, a Spanish botanist. Nat. Ord. Rhamnacece. A small genus of interesting green-house shrubs, natives of South America. T. trinervis and T. quinquenervia are in cultivation, but seldom found except in botanical collections. Trew'ia. Named in honor of J. C. Trew, of Nuremberg, a botanical author. Nat. Ord. Euphorbiacece. A small genus of stove-house plants, natives of the East Indies. T. nudiflora, the only spe- cies in cultivation, thrives best in a compost of sandy loam and leaf mould. It was intro- duced in 1796, and is readily increased by cuttings. Triadelphous. Having the stamens collected into three distinct bundles, the filaments of those in separate bundles cohering. Tria'nea. Named in honor of M. Jose Triana, a botanist and traveler in Columbia. Nat. Ord. HydrocharidacecB. A genus of green-house, stoloniferous plants, natives of Mexico and South America, now regarded by Bentham and Hooker as synony- mous with Limnobium. TBI Trichi'nium. From trichinos, hairy; flowers covered with knotted hairs. Nat. Ord. Ama- ranthacece. A genus of annuals and herbaceous peren- nials from Australia. The flowers of some of the species are extremely ornamental. Their yellow, crimson, white, or pink* flowers, are produced in terminal heads or spikes. The perennials require to be grown in the green- house. The annuals should be started in seed boxes in February, as our seasons are too short for their development if the seed is sown in the border. Trichoce'ntrum. From thrix, trichos, a hair, and centron, a spur or centre ; alluding to the long, thin spur of the labellum. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A considerable genus of epiphytal Orchids from South and Central America. Most of the species are not considered worth growing. T. albo-purpureum, from the Bio Negro, is an exceedingly beautiful plant. Petals maroon- brown inside, and yellowish-green outside; lip large, white, with two bright purple spots. T. Pfavii and one or two other species have very beautiful flowers. They should be grown on blocks or cork, or in small baskets in a moderate temperature. They bloom freely, and require but little care. Introduced in 1835. Trichode'sma. From thrix, trichos, a hair, and desmos, a bond; the anthers are bound to each other by hairs. Nat. Ord. Boraginacece. A genus of strigose annuals, natives of India, Egypt and South Africa, with the habit of Borago and Cynoglosswm. T. zeylanicum, Ceylon Borage, the only species in cultivation, is a rather coarse, hardy annual, with blue flowers, thriving under ordinary treatment. Tricholae'na. From thrix, trichos, a hair, and chlaina, a cassock. Nat. Ord. Graminacece. A small genus of very pretty grasses, gener- ally included in the genus Panicvm. A few are found in collections of ornamental grasses in the green-house. Tricho'manes. From thrix, trichos a hair, and memos, soft; the shining stems appear like soft hair. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacece. An extensive, varied, and beautiful genus of Ferns, found abundantly in the moist, shady woods of the tropics in both the Old and the New Worlds. T. radicans, a beauti- ful species, is found on the coast of Ireland. Many of the species are cultivated for the beauty of their fronds, which have an almost transparent appearance. Propagated by divis- ion or from spores. Feea, Hymenostachys, Involucraria, Lacostea, Lecanium, Microgonium and Phlebiophyllum, are now included in this genus, which comprises over one hundred species. Trichone'ma. From thrix, trichos, a hair, and nema, a filament; stamens clothed with mi- nute hairs. Nat. Ord. Iridacece. A genus of beautiful little crocus-like, bul- bous plants, with red, yellow, purple and white flowers, borne singly on slender scapes. They are natives of Spain, Italy, and the Cape of Good Hope. Like most bulbs from those localities, they require to be grown in the green-house. Propagated by offsets. Intro- duced in 1818. Called also Romulea. TRILLIUM GRANDIFLORUM. TRICHOL^ENA. TRITELIA UNIFLORA. TRIFOLIUM PRATENSE PERENNE (MAMMOTH CLOVER). ^ 460 TRITOMA GRANDIFLORA MAJOR. TRIFOLIUM REPENS (WHITE CLOVER). TRICHOSANTHES. TROP-EOLUM (TAT.L). TROP.EOLUM LOBBIANUM. TfiOP-EOLUM PENTAPHYIXUM. TROP«OLUM PEREGRINTJM (CANARY BIRD VINE). 461 AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 461 TRI Trichope'talum. From thrix, trichos, a hair, and petalon, a petal ; the inner perianth segments are fringed. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. T. stellatum, the only described species, is a curious, half-hardy perennial, with a thick rhizome and greenish-white flowers, and suc- ceeds best if planted out in a frame from which the frost is entirely excluded. It was introduced from Chili in 1828, and is increased by division of the rhizome. Trichopi'lia. From thrix, trichos, a hair, and pilion, a cap ; in allusion to the anthers being concealed below a cap surmounted by tufts of hair. Nat. Ord. Orchidacecs. A small genus of very beautiful epiphytal Orchids, natives of Central America and the West Indies. The flowers are white, yellow, pale pink, or greenish white. T. suavis, a species from Central America, is one of the finest of the genus. Its flowers are very large, pale nankeen color, with white lip very clearly marked with lilac, and are very beautiful and fragrant. T. cocdnea, T. crispa, T. fragrans and T. tortilis are all desirable kinds. All the species may be grown in a cool house, and succeed best in pots. Syn. Pilumna. Trichosa'nthes. Snake Cucumber. From thrix, trichos, a hair, and anthos, a flower ; the flow- ers are ciliated. Nat. Ord. Cucurbitacece. A genus of climbing annuals from China and the East Indies, commonly known as Snake Cucumbers. T. anguina (syn. T. colubrina) is a very curious plant with white flowers, every petal of which appears surrounded with long, knotted fringe. The leaves and tendrils re- semble those of the common Cucumber ; but the fruit is curiously striped, and is so long and narrow as to resemble a snake. Speci- mens have, indeed, been grown more than six feet long, and not thicker than the body of a common snake. The plant is an annual, a native of China, and is only worth cultivat- ing as an object of curiosity. Many botanists include Eopepon under this genus. Tricho'sma. Hair Orchid. From thrix, trichos, hair, and kosmos, ornament. Nat. Ord. Orchid- acece. T. suavis, the only introduced species, is a very scarce and distinct epiphytal Orchid, in- troduced from Assam in 1840. Its flowers are white, striped with brownish-crimson ; very showy and fragrant. It succeeds best when grown in a well-drained pot or pan, and when growing must be kept moderately moist; as it has no pseudo-bulbs, it must never be allowed to get quite dry. Syn. Cozlogyne coronaria. Trichoste'ma. Blue Curls. From thrix, trichos, hair, and sterna, a stamen, referring to the slender, hair-like stamens. Nat. Ord . Labiataz. A genus of native plants found in sandy fields from New England to Kentucky. They are of no horticultural value. Tricho'tomous. Branching in threes. Trico'ryne. From treis, three, and koryne, a club; in allusion to the form of the capsules. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. A small genus of green-house perennials with fibrous roots, natives of Australia. The species are easily increased by division, but are more of botanical than horticultural inter- est. TRI Tricuspida'ria. From tricuspis, three-pointed; alluding to the petals. Nat. Ord. Tiliacece. A small genus of green-house plants, natives of Chili. T. hexapetala is a very beautiful, free-flowering shrub, producing pendulous, conical blooms of thick, waxy texture, resem- bling that of Lapageria rosea, and of the same bright, rose color. The leaves are oblong- lanceolate, serrated, or rarely entire. This is the only species yet in cultivation, and is propagated by cuttings of the half-ripened wood. Syn. Crinodendron Hookerianvm. Tricuspidatus. Having three points. Tricy'rtis. Japanese Toad Lily. From treis, three, and kyrtos, a convex; alluding to the three outer sepals having bags at their base. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. T. hirta, the best known species, is a very beautiful, hardy, herbaceous plant, found in China and Japan. The flowers are axillary, in panicles about six inches long, resembling, in their peculiar form and markings, some of the more singular Orchids. This plant is very desirable for the open border. It produces its flowers in October and November, at which time the plant may be removed to the sitting- room, and they will remain several weeks in flower, after which they may again be returned to the border. It was introduced in 1855 and is propagated by division. Tri'dax. From treis, three, and akis, a point; alluding to the ray florets. A genus of Composite, natives of Central America and comprising seven or more spe- cies of hardy perennials of but little beauty. T. bicolor rosea is a Mexican half-hardy annual of comparatively late introduction and of easy management. Its flowers are of a pleasing rose color, the disk florets being yellow, and are produced in profusion during the whole season. The typical T. bicolor has the ray florets pure white. Tridentate. Trident pointed ; when the point is truncated and has three indentations. Trienta'lis. Chickweed Winter-green. A Latin term signifying one-third of a foot high, in reference to the stature of the plants. A small genus of Primulacew, the species of which are found in Europe and in cold, damp woods from New Jersey northwards. They are low, smooth perennials with simple, erect stems, bearing a whorl of thin, veiny leaves at the summit, from which spring one or more slender peduncles supporting the pretty, single, white, star-like flowers. Trifid. Split half-way into three parts. Trifoliate. Composed of three leaflets, as the leaves of Clover. Trifo'lium. Clover, Trefoil. From treis, three, and folium, a leaf ; three-leaved. Nat. Ord. LeguminoscB. Of this very extensive genus there are sev- eral species under cultivation as forage plants. They include T. pratense, the common Red Clover, a native of Great Britain ; T. reflexum, Buffalo Clover, indigenous in New York and westward ; T. repens, White Clover, introduced from Europe, but indigenous in the Northern States ; and T. hybridum, or Alsike Clover, a hybrid variety introduced from near Stock- holm, Sweden. This is a very hardy peren- nial sort, valuable for pasturage and soiling, and being very productive and floriferous, 462 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS TRI bees obtain a large amount of honey from its fragrant flowers. It is valuable for sowing with other grasses and clovers, as it forms a thick bottom, and increases the yield of hay. It is well suited to lands liable to wash, its long, fibrous roots binding the soil well. T. fragiferum, the Strawberry Clover, is spoken of as a likely plant with which to make a lawn that will remain green during the summer without irrigation in dry regions like cen- tral and southern California. Its stems and branches are prostrate, and spread over the ground. This plant is very tough and hardy, and it produces freely, heads of pale, rose- colored flowers, which resemble ripe straw- berries—a resemblance which is the origin of the specific name. A lawn composed of this plant would not require cutting. Besides these there are a number of other species that have been considerably cultivated, but those named are almost wholly preferred for pasture and hay. Those who are accustomed to consider the Trefoil as only the common Clover of the meadows, will probably be sur- prised to learn that there are nearly a hun- dred and fifty species, all more or less orna- mental. Some of these are perennials and some annuals ; and the color of their flowers varies from dark crimson, and sometimes scarlet, to purple on the one hand, and to white, cream-color, and pale yellow on the other. Some of our dealers in hardy herba- ceous plants have catalogued a few of the more showy species, and highly recommend them for border plants. Triginous. Having either three pistils or at least three distinct styles. Trigonal. Three-angled, and having three plain faces. Trigone'lla. Fenugreek. From trek, three, and gonu, an angle ; the standard of the flower is flat, while the wings spread and give it a tri- angular appearance. Nat. Ord. Leguminosoe. An extensive genus of herbaceous, legumin- ous plants inhabiting central Asia, southern Europe and northern Africa. All the species possess a heavy penetrating odor. T. Fcmum- grcecum, commonly known as Fenugreek, is an erect, annual plant, about two feet high, a native of the Mediterranean region, and con- siderably cultivated in India and other warm countries, and occasionally in this country. The seeds of Fenugreek were held in high re- pute among the ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans, for medicinal and culinary pur- poses, but at the present day their use in medicine is confined to veterinary practice, the seeds being given to horses when a tem- porary stimulant is required or desired. It is said to give cattle and swine good appetites and digestion. The seeds have a powerful odor of coumarine, and are largely used for flavoring concentrated cattle foods, and for rendering damaged hay palatable. Trili'sa. From trilix, triple ; in allusion to the divisions of the pappus. Nat. Ord. Com- posites. A small genus of hardy, erect, perennial, native plants, with purplish or white flower- heads. T. odoratissima, sometimes called the Vanilla Plant, is better known by its old name, Liatris odoratissima. Trillia'ceae. A natural order now included as a tribe of UMacem. TRI Trilli'um. American Wood Lily. Three-leaved Night-shade, or Wake Robin. From trilix, triple ; alluding to triple parts of the flowers and leaves. Nat. Ord. Liliaceoe. A singular and beautiful genus of hardy, perennial plants, natives of North America and Asia, from the Himalayas to Japan. T. grandijlorum, one of the best of our native spring-flowering plants, is probably the best known species, and deservedly so on account of its large flowers, snow-white when first ex- panded and changing to rosy-pink with age. T. ovatum, a species from the Pacific coast, is as ornamental as T. grandijlorum, the flowers being pure white and fully as large. T. erec- tum, having green leaves with dark purple flowers, is common in the Eastern States. T. sessile has purple flowers and the foliage prettily marked and blotched. The variety T. sessile Californicum is a plant much larger in all its parts, with the marking of the leaves and flowers much brighter in color. This is a very desirable plant and worth cul- tivating for its foliage alone. They succeed best in a moist, shady situation and good, rich vegetable mould. Several of the species are valuable for pot culture, and when grown in this way may be easily brought into bloom several weeks before their usual flowering period. They are tuberous rooted and do not divide readily, but may be increased rap- idly from seed, which should be sown as soon as ripe in a frame, where it may be shaded, or sown in the open ground and slightly cov- ered with leaves. Trilobed or Trilobate. Three-lobed. Trilocular. Three-celled. Trime'zia. From treis, three, and merizo, to divide ; in allusion to the division of the flow- ers. Nat. Ord. Iridacece. A small genus of bulbous plants, natives of the West Indies and South America. T. Mar- tinicensis, the only species in cultivation, has bright yellow, very fugaceous flowers, and is seldom seen except in botanical collections. Tricecius. Having male flowers on one indi- vidual, female on another, and hermaphrodite on a third. Trio'lena. From treis, three, and olene, the arm ; in allusion to the three processes from the base of the anthers. Nat. Ord. Melasto- macece. A small genus of pilose, perennial herbs, natives of Mexico, Venezuela and New Gren- ada. T. scorpioides, the only introduced spe- cies, is very similar to Bertolonia in habit, and has curved racemes of pretty, rose-colored flowers. It is propagated by seeds or by cuttings. Trio'num. Now included under Hibiscus. Trio'steum. Feverwort. Horse Gentian. From treis, three, and osteon, a bone ; three bony seeds. Nat. Ord. Caprifbliacece. A genus of coarse-growing, hardy, herba- ceous plants, common in the Middle and Southern States. The roots of one of the species was esteemed by the Indians as a medicine. They are of no horticultural value. Tripartite. Divided into three parts nearly to its base. Tripetalous. When a corolla consists of three petals. AND GENEEAL HORTICULTURE. 463 TRI Tripha'sia. From triphasics, triple ; alluding to the number of sepals and petals. Nat. Ord. RutacecB. T. trifoliata, the only species, is a spiny, evergreen shrub, a native of southern China, but now naturalized in many parts of the East Indies and also cultivated in the West Indies. Its fruits, which are as large as hazel-nuts, have an agreeable, sweet taste when ripe, and are sometimes preserved whole in syrup and exported under the name of Lime-berries. It is under cultivation, and may be propagated by cuttings. Tripinnate. When the leaflets of a bi-pinnate leaf become themselves pinnate. Tri'psacum. From tribo, to thresh ; in allusion to the purpose to which its grain may be ap- plied. Nat. Ord. GraminacecB. A small genus of grasses confined to the Southern States and to South America. T. dactyloides, commonly called Gama-Grass and Buffalo Grass, is common from Connecticut to Illinois and southward. This is one of the largest and most remarkable grasses, grow- ing from four to seven feet high, with leaves like those of Indian Corn ; in the absence of a better, this grass is sometimes used at the South for fodder. This species is also grown among ornamental grasses. Trise'tum. From treis, three, and seta, a bris- tle, on account of the three awns of the flower. Nat. Ord. Graminacece. An extensive genus of annual and perennial grasses, nearly allied to the oat-grass, widely distributed over the different quarters of the globe. They are chiefly natives of the tem- perate zones, where some of them are useful pasture grasses. T. flavescens and T. pubes- cens, natives of Great Britain, are considered valuable for agricultural purposes; the for- mer generally forms a portion of all produc- tive meadows. Trista'nia. Named in honor of J. M. C. Tristan, a French botanist. • Nat. Ord. Myrtacem. A genus of green-house shrubs, mostly na- tives of Australia. They are very pretty plants, thriving well in a compost of loam and sandy peat. T. conferta, the Australian Turpentine-tree, and T. neriifolia, the Water Gum-tree, are both in cultivation and are in- creased by cuttings of the half-ripened wood. Tristichous. In three rows or ranks. Tritelei'a. From treis, three, and teleios, com- plete ; the parts of the flower and fruit are in threes. Nat. Ord. LiliacecB. A small family of very pretty bulbs, natives of California and South America, often con- founded with Milla. T. uniflora, or Spring Star Flower, is a delicately colored, free- flowering, hardy plant, four to six inches high. The flowers are clear white with a grayish- violet stripe on each division of the corolla. They open with the morning sun, are conspic- uously beautiful on bright days, and close in dull, sunless weather. It comes into flower with or before Scilla Sibirica, and is still in effective bloom when the vivid blue of the Squill has been long replaced by green leaves. T. laxa, the Californian species, has glaucous leaves, and a many-flowered umbel of deep blue flowers. All the species are desirable, and suited either to green-house culture or TRI the open border. They were first introduced in 1832, and are propagated by offsets. Tri'ticum. Wheat. From tritum, rubbed ; in allusion to its being originally rubbed down to make it eatable. Nat. Ord. GraminacecB. This genus includes annual and perennial grasses, some of which are the most useful and important plants in cultivation, while others are the most troublesome pests the farmer and gardener have to contend against. T. vulgare, Wheat, has more intrinsic value than any other plant grown. The native country of the Wheat is unknown; in its present form it is older than history. There is no record of it having been found growing wild. Those who have given the most time and study to ascertain its origin, presume it is a native of southern Europe and Western Asia, a development of the genus uffigilops. This is, however, mere speculation. Many varieties of Wheat have been produced by culture and cross-breeding, without, however, materially changing the grain. T. repens is the pest commonly known as Couch or Quick Grass, a perennial that is most tenacious of life, and which, when once established, will destroy all other crops, and can be extermi- nated only with the greatest exertion and difficulty. Tri'toma. From treis, three, and temno, to cut ; in allusion to the three sharp edges at the ends of the leaves. Nat. Ord. Liliacew. The Tritoma, or Red-hot Poker plant, and also Flame Flower, as it is popularly known, is a very beautiful, half-hardy, herbaceous plant, native of the south of Africa. The genus consists of about half a dozen species, the finest being T. Uvaria grandiflora, a plant admirably adapted for single clumps on the lawn, or among shrubbery, where its tall spikes of orange-red flowers make an effective display from August until December. This plant will usually live through the winter in the latitude of New York without pro- tection , if planted in a dry soil ; but it will well repay the slight protection required of three or four inches of dry leaves around the stem to secure it against all danger from frost. The flowers are not at all injured by a few degrees of frost, and it is not an uncom- mon sight to see its tall spikes in perfect flower in December. They are readily in- creased by seed or by division of the roots, which should be done in early spring. This genus was first introduced in 1707, and is now placed under Kniphofia by many botanists, but it is best known in cultivation as Tri- toma. Trito'nia. From triton, a weathercock, in al- lusion to the variable direction of the stamens in the various species. Nat. Ord. Iridacece. A very pretty genus of low-growing, bulbous plants, from the Cape of Good Hope. The flow- ers are tubular, borne on slender scapes, the colors being orange, white, yellow and blue. They are half-hardy and should have the pro- tection of a frame during winter, and may be allowed to remain undisturbed for a number of years. T. awea, now called Crocosma aurea, bearing beautiful orange-colored flow- ers, is one of the best, and is much esteemed. They were first introduced in 1815, and are in- creased by offsets. 464 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS TBI Tri'xis. From trixos, triple ; alluding to the three-celled, triangular capsule. Nat. Ord. Composite^. A genus of green-house plants of variable habit, natives of Central and South America and the West Indies. T. divaricata auricu- lata and T. senecioides are interesting plants with white or yellowish-white flowers and may be increased by cuttings or by seeds. Tro'llius. Globe Flower. From trol, the Ger- man for round ; the flowers are globular. Nat. Ord. Ranunculacem. A genus of hardy, yellow-flowered, herba- ceous plants. T. laxus, the only native species, has flowers twice the size of the Buttercup, of a pale greenish-yellow color. T. Europosus, a native of Great Britain, has much larger flowers, and of a brighter color, and, with T. Asiaticus, is an excellent plant for the her- baceous border or rock garden. They are generally increased by division or by seeds, which, however, rarely vegetate the first year, but come up vigorously the following spring. Tropaeola'ceee. A genus now included as a sub-order of Geraniacece. Tropaeo'lum. Nasturtium, Indian Cress. From tropaion, a trophy ; the leaves resemble a buckler, and the flowers an empty helmet. Nat. Ord. Geraniacece. An extensive genus of hardy annuals and green-house tuberous and herbaceous peren- nials, all natives of tropical America. The tuberous-rooted varieties are confined to Peru. The well-known annual plants, called Nastur- tiums, are common in every garden, and only require sowing with the other hardy annuals in spring. There were formerly only two kinds of the annual Tropeeolums, T. major and T. minor, but since 1830 numerous varieties have been raised. One, with very dark flowers, is called T. minor alrosanguineum, and another, with dark stripes, is T. minor venustum. The tall-growing varieties are not easily surpassed for covering arbors or unsightly objects; while the dwarf sorts are beautiful plants for the mixed flower border or for placing in beds by themselves ; they are exceedingly compact and floriferous. As the double varieties do not seed they must be increased by cuttings, which root readily in sand. The young shoots of these plants are succulent, and taste like the common land Cress, the botanical name of which is Nasturtium, and hence they have received their popular name. Besides the hardy annual kinds, there are several tender species, most of which are kept in the green- house. The best known of these is Tropceolum tricolorwm, with flowers marked red, black and yellow, which has tuberous roots, and such very weak and slender stems that it is found necessary always to train them over a frame , or trellis, as they are quite unable to support themselves. In Paxton's " Magazine of Bot- any " it is stated that the tuber of the root should not be buried, but only placed on the surface of the soil, so that the fibrous roots may penetrate it. This, it is said, will en- large the size of the tuber in " a truly aston- ishing manner ;" and though the plants will not appear healthy the first season, they will afterward become extremely vigorous. It is also recommended to use double pots for these plants, and fill up the interstices with river sand, which should always be kept moist. TSU Substantially the same plan has been followed in this country for many years and found to succeed well. T. brachyceras may be treated in the same manner, and it would probably succeed with T. tuberosum, a species which it is very difficult to throw into flower under ordinary treatment, but which grows best in the open ground, in rich soil, and with plenty of air and light. T. peregrinum, the Canary Bird Flower, was formerly considered a green- house plant, but it is now found much better to treat it as a half-hardy annual, raising the seeds on a hot-bed, and planting them out in May near some trellis- work or other support, which the plant will soon cover in the most graceful manner, producing hundreds of its elegant fringe-like, pale-yellow flowers. Pro- pagated by cuttings and by seeds. First introduced in 1596. True Love. A local name for Paris quadrifolia. Truffle. Tuber cibarium. A species of Fungus found in various parts of Europe and much esteemed as a rare dish. It grows under the ground and was formerly sought after with dogs trained for the purpose, but is now usu- ally discovered by a particular species of fly hovering over the place of its growth. It is said that the Truffle has been found in the State of New York. Trumpet Creeper. See Tecoma radicans. Trumpet Flower. A common name for vari- ous large, trumpet-shaped flowers, as Datura, Brugmansia, etc. Trumpet Honeysuckle. A common name for Lonicera sempervirens. Trumpet Leaf. The genus Sarracenia. Trumpet Lily. Lilium longiflorum, also Rich- ardia JEthiopica. Trumpet "Weed. Eupatorium purpureum. Trumpets. Sarracenia fiava. Truncate. Blunt, as if cut off at the end ; as the leaf of the Tulip tree. Tryma'lium. From trymalia, a perforation ; in reference to the small holes at the top of the capsule. Nat. Ord. Rhamnacece. A small genus of Australian green-house shrubs with the habit of Pomaderris, but with smaller flowers. T. odoratissimum is well de- serving a place in every collection of green- house plants on account of its snow-white flowers, which being produced in numerous, loose, drooping panicles, render it a very beautiful object when in blossom ; its flowers are also deliciously fragrant. It thrives in a compost of sandy loam and leaf-mould, and is increased by cuttings. Tsu'ga. The Japanese name for these trees. Nat. Ord. Conifera. Of the eight species that compose this genus, two belong to eastern Asia, one to eastern and five to western North America. All the species are closely allied, and were formerly included under Abies. T. Canaden- sis, known better in cultivation as Abies Can- adensis, is the well-known Hemlock Spruce, one of the most beautiful and useful of our native evergreens. T. Pattoniana is found in the highest timber regions of the Sierra Ne- vada, where it forms a large tree. In a young state it has the aspect of a Juniper, the leaves AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 465 TUB being linear and pointed. It is very hardy, and forms a beautiful, erect, densely branched tree. Tubaeform. Hollow, and dilated at one extrem- ity like the end of a trumpet. Tube. The part of a mono-sepalous calyx or corolla, formed by the union of the edges of the sepals or petals ; also applied to adhesions of stamens. Tuber. See Truffle (Tuber cibarium). Tuber. A roundish, underground, succulent stem, covered with buds, from which new plants or tubers are produced, as the Potato ; a receptacle of vegetable food. Tubercle. Any small, warty excrescence. Tuberose. See Polianthes tuberosa. Tulba'ghia. In honor of Tulbagh, a Dutch gov- ernor of the Cape of Good Hope. Nat. Ord. LiliacecB. A small genus of evergreen perennials, na- tives of the Cape of Good Hope. T. violacea is a very beautiful plant. The flowers are violet-purple, produced in a many-flowered umbel, somewhat like those of the Agapanthus, to which the genus is allied. Propagated by division. Tulip. See Tulipa. Tu'lipa. The Tulip. Nat. Ord. LiliacecB. The Tulip derives its name from the Persian word Thoulyban, a turban ; an Eastern head- dress, sometimes made in the form of a well- shaped Tulip. Tulipsaxe divided into several classes, and of these we shall speak in the order of their flowering. The single and double varieties of the Due Van Thol, of which the type is Tulipa suaveolens (from the Latin suavis, sweet), are the earliest and most suit- able for pot culture or forcing. If, in autumn, they are planted singly, in small pots of light, rich soil, they will flower extremely well in an ordinary room, and contrast finely with Hya- cinths in glasses. They should be frequently exposed to fresh air, and will flower in water like the Hyacinth, but with less certainty and less luxuriance ; hence they are better grown in pots of soil. The Due Van Thol was introduced into English gardens from the south of Europe in 1603. The Single Early Tulip (Tulipa Gesneriana), the parent of our ordinary garden varieties, is a native of Asia Minor, the Caucasus, Calabria and cen- tral Italy. Conrad Gesner, a Swiss naturalist, in whose honor it was named, first made it known by a description and drawing in April, 1559. He obtained his specimen in a garden at Augsburg, where it was grown from seed brought from Constantinople. It was first flowered in England by Mr. James Garret, an apothecary, in 1577. T. Turkestanica is, per- haps, the earliest-flowering species of this numerous family, coming in with the earliest of spring-flowering bulbs. It is perfectly hardy and has pretty, yellow flowers, which are produced as many as six on a stem. This plant, as the specific name implies, is a native of Turkestan. We are indebted to Dr. Regel, of St. Petersburg, for the introduction of this and many other interesting plants. Of this class of Early Single Tulips there is almost an endless variety. They have received, for more than two hundred years, all the care and atten- tion that could possibly be bestowed on a TUL plant, not only by the Dutch florists, but by every skilled gardener throughout the Old World. Notwithstanding the "mania" has passed over, one of the Haarlem florists this season (1889) offers eighteen hundred varieties. To select from a list so large with a view of pleasing or of securing the most desirable, would be to play a game of chance. Every color and shade, except black, is represented, either alone or mixed, striped, or shaded ; in fact, every possible combination of color may be obtained. Double Tulips are almost as common as the single, many of them very showy and desirable. But, like all others who have made a specialty of the Tulip, we could never admire the double as much as the single varieties. Late flowering or Show Tulips, of which so much has been said and written, have been grown from seed by millions, the result of which has been the acquisition of many superb varieties. There is a singularity in Tulips which belongs to no other flower. The seedlings generally, when they first bloom, produce flowers without any stripes or markings, but with a yellow base, the upright portion of the petals being self- colored, brown, red, purple, scarlet or rose. In this state, when they have been grown for years without variation, they are called Breeders or Mother Tulips. These are planted every year until they break into stripes, when, if the markings are fine, or different from any known, they are named. It is often so many years before they break, and the multiplica- tion in the breeder state is so rapid, that the border soon becomes filled with this self- colored variety. Each person who has broken one claims, and has a perfect right, to give it a name ; but much confusion naturally exists, because of the fact that different names have been given to those that have broken almost ex- actly alike. In a bed of a hundred seedlings, it is not probable that any two will be very nearly alike in their markings. This uncertainty adds greatly to the charm of Tulip cultivation. The hope of something new in the markings and penciling is a sufficient stimulant for the enthusiast to persevere in his labor of love until he has found one worthy of a name. One singular feature in the Tulip is, that after it breaks, it ever remains the same. Show Tulips are divided into three classes : 1. Byblmmens, such as have a white ground, variegated with purple, the edges well feathered, the leaflets erect, and the whole forming a perfect cup. 2. Bizarres, having a yellow ground, varie- gated with scarlet, purple, rose or violet. 3. Roses, with white ground, variegated with rose-color, scarlet or crimson. The properties of a good Tulip, as a florist's flower, are : 1. The cup should form, when quite expanded, from half to a third of a round ball. To do this, the petals must be six in number, broad at the ends, smooth at the edges, and the divisions between the petals must scarcely show an indenture. 2. The three inner petals should set closely to the three outer ones, and the whole should be broad enough to allow of the fullest expansion without quartering, as it is called, or exhibiting any vacancy between the petals. 3. The petals should be thick, smooth and stiff, and keep their form well. 4. The ground should be clear and distinct, whether white or yellow. The least stain, even at the lower end of the petal, renders a 466 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS TUL Tulip of less value. 5. "Whatever be the dis- position of colors or marks upon a Tulip, all the six petals should be marked alike, and be, therefore, perfectly uniform. 6. The feathered flowers should have an even, close feathering all round ; and whether narrow or wide, light or heavy, should reach far enough round the petals to form, when expanded, an unbroken edging. 7. If the flower have any marking be- sides the feathering at the edge, it should be a bold mark down the centre, but not reach- ing the bottom of the cup. The mark must be similar in all the six petals. 8. Flowers not feathered, and with the flame only, must have no marks on the edges of the flowers. None of the colors must break through to the edge. The color maybe disposed in any form, so that it be perfectly uniform in all the petals, and does not go too near the bottom. 9. The color, whatever it may be, must be dense and de- cided. Whether it be delicate and light, or bright, or dark, it must be distinct in its out- line, and not shaded, or flushed, or broken. 10. The height should be eighteen to thirty- six inches ; the former is right for the outside row in a bed, and the latter is right for the highest row. 11. The purity of the white and the brightness of the yellow should be per- manent ; that is to say, should stand until the petals actually fall. Where Parrot Tulips originated we have not learned. They are ignored by those florists who claim the right to say what is and what is not beautiful. Not being bound to observe the " laws" that regu- late the form, shape, and "perfect markings," we prize this class very highly, on account of their singularly picturesque appearance. The flowers are very large and the colors exceed- ingly brilliant. They are unequaled for groups in mixed borders, or conspicuous places in front of shrubs. The varieties of this class are limited, but they are, nevertheless, particu- larly beautiful. Culture op the Tulip. The best soil for the cultivation of the Tulip is a rich, rather light, well-drained loam. A bed of sufficient size for planting the bulbs should be dug at least twelve inches deep. The Tulips should then be planted six inches apart each way ; pressed deep enough to keep them in their places, and covered with mould to the depth of three inches on the sides of the bed, and five inches in the centre. This precaution is necessary, that water may not stand on the bed during the winter. When the bed is planted and covered it may be left to the weather until the Tulips come up, or about the 1st of March. Beds of Tulips show up to much better advantage if they are carpeted with small, creeping or tufted plants, and there are many hardy, flowering and foliage plants suited for the purpose. The White Rock Cress (Arabia albida), and its variegated form, Hepaticas, Silene pendula, the Ground Ivy (Glechoma hederacea) and its variegated form, Lamiums, Sedum acre aureum the early flowering Violas, Ajuga reptans rubra, Aubretias, and many others, make excellent carpets for beds of bulbs. When the flowers appear, if they are protected from the sun by a light canvas, the period of bloom may be kept up for three or four weeks. The colors are generally better if not shaded at all, but in that case the bloom would be soon over. Sometimes a single day's hot sun would com- TUR pletely spoil them. When the flowers begin to fade, they should be cut away and removed from the bed. As soon as the stems of the Tulip turn yellow, and the leaves begin to dry, they may be taken up and put in a cool, dry place. When dry, thoroughly clean off the old skin and dirt, and put in paper bags, ready for planting out again in October. Some of the double varieties are very showy and beautiful, and as they are later in flowering than the single sorts they are desirable to lengthen the season of flowering. The Tulip is also now extensively forced for cut flowers during the winter and spring months. The method of culture is identical with that of the Roman Hyacinth and Paper Narcissus. The kinds known as " Single Early " are the best for this purpose. The following are a few of the most desirable sorts : Belle Alliance (Waterloo), scarlet ; Artus, scarlet ; Chryso- lora, large bright yellow; Due Van Thol, various colors ; Duchesse de Parma, red with yellow band; Keizerkroon, scarlet and yel- low ; Queen Victoria (La Reine), white ; Rosa Mundi, rose and white ; Rose Grisdelin, deli- cate rose; Vermilion Brilliant, dazzling ver- milion ; Yellow Prince, etc. Tulip. African. A name given to the genus Hcemanthus. Tulip Tree. See Liriodendron. Tulip Tree or Fire Tree, of Queensland. See Stenocarpus. Tulip. Wild, of California. The genus Calo- chortus. Tulip Wood Tree. The striped, rose-colored wood of Physocalymnafloribunda. Tulip Wood Tree. Australian. Cupania (Har- palia) pendula. Tu'nica. From tunica, a coat ; referring to the calyx. Nat. Ord. Caryophyllacece. Hardy annuals and herbaceous perennials, natives of southern Europe and Central Asia, and allied to Dianthus. A few of the species have showy flowers in spring. They are in- creased by division or from seed. Tunicate. Coated ; invested with layers, as an Onion. Tu'pa. Tupa is the name of T. Feuillei in Chili. Nat. Ord. Lobeliaceoe. This is a genus of pretty plants, chiefly na- tives of Chili and Peru. They are worth cul- tivating on account of the beauty and singu- larity of their flowers. They are treated and propagated like the Lobelia. Tupelo Tree. See Nyssa. Tupida'nthus. From tupis, tupidos, a mallet, and anthus, a flower; referring to the shape of the flower-buds. Nat. Ord. Araliacem. T. calyptratus, the only introduced species, is at first a small, glabrous, erect tree, after- wards a lofty climber. It was introduced from India in 1855, and is increased by cut- tings. Tupi'stra. Mallet Flower. From tupis, a mal- let; alluding to the peculiar form of the stigma. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. A small genus of stove-house plants, na- tives of the Himalayas. Two species are in cultivation, but are grown more for their in- teresting flowers than for their beauty. Turbinate. Top-shaped. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 467 TUR Turgid. Swollen, puffed up. Turio. A scaly sucker, which afterwards be- comes a stem, as in Asparagus. Turkey Corn. A common name for Dicentra formosa. Turkey Oak. Quercus Cerris. Turkey's Beard. See Xerophyllum. Turkish Rhubarb. See Rheum palmatum. Turk's Cap. Melocactus communis. Turmeric. See Curcuma. Turmeric-Root. tis Canadensis. A common name for Hydras- Tu'rnera. Dedicated by LinnsBus to the mem- ory of William Turner, author of "A New Herbal," 1551. Nat. Ord. Turneraceaz. A genus of very handsome plants when in flower. Some are annuals, and others green- house shrubs and herbaceous plants, with yellow flowers, some of which resemble those of the Thuribergia. They should be grown in a light, rich soil. They are propagated by cuttings or by seeds. Introduced from South America in 1774. Turnera'ceee. A small, natural order, consist- ing of herbs or under-shrubs, natives chiefly of tropical Africa and America, with alternate leaves and yellowish or blue axillary flowers. The order embraces three genera and nearly eighty species. Turnip. (See Brassiea.) The field and garden Turnip is supposed to have originated by long cultivation of the wild Brassiea rapa, a native of Great Britain and other parts of Europe. At what period it was first brought into notice in its native countries, or how its improvement from its native wild and useless state was brought about, is entirely un- known. It was in use as a vegetable before the Christian era, but we have no account of its being cultivated to any extent as a field crop previous to 1600. It does not seem that there was any rapid development in its im- provement worthy of mention by the early writers previous to 1650, but from that period its increase in cultivation was rapid, and many new sorts are mentioned. At the pres- ent day, every country adapted to its growth boasts of the varieties it has produced. The Swedish Turnip, or Ruta Baga, one of the best known, originated from B. campestris; its varieties are numerous, and generally cul- tivated. The French Turnip is considered sweeter and freer from any acrid properties than most others, and is highly prized for the table. Several varieties are designated as American, and the Purple and White Strap- leafed Turnips justly so, but where or by whom they originated, or the parentage, we are without knowledge. We only know that they were long grown here previous to their being known in Europe, and that they have always been regarded as American varieties there. A variety known as the White Egg, evidently a selection from the Long White or Cow-horn Turnip, is one of the best for the table. The Turnip is used both as a spring and fall crop. For spring, sow as early as the ground is dry enough, and for fall, in the latitude of New York, sow Ruta Bagas in July, and other varieties during the latter part of August and in September, ac- cording to the kind. Seeds may be sown as TWI • the ground becomes vacant. In every case, when the soil is dry, firm the seeds well in the soil by the feet or by rolling. Turnip. Devil's. A common name for Bryonia dioica. Turnip. Indian. A common name for Ariswma triphylla, which see. Turnip. Lion's. The roots of Leontice Leonto- petalum. Turnip-rooted Celery. Celeriac. See Celery. Turnip. St. Anthony's. A common name for Ranunculus bulbosus. Turnsole. Croton tinctorium, also the genus Heliotrope. Turpentine Tree. A common name for vari- ous species of Abies, Pinus, Pistacia, Bursera, etc. Tu'rraea. Named in honor of George Turra, once Professor of Botany at Padua, and author of several botanical works. Nat. Ord. Melia- cece. A genus of tropical shrubs and large trees confined to the Old World. Some of the spe- cies have edible fruit, and a few are grown for the beauty of their flowers. Tu'rritis. A genus of Cruciferw, now included under Arabis. Turtle-Head. One of the popular names for Chelone, which see. Tussa'cia. Named after F. R. de Tussac, a French botanist, who wrote a "Flora of the Antilles " in 1808. Nat. Ord. Gesneracece. A small genus of plant-stove herbs with creeping, branched rhizomes, natives of the West Indies, Guiana, etc. The flowers are yellow, lined with purple and the calyx scar- let, forming a very showy, terminal corymb of flowers. They require the same culture as the Gesnera, to which they are closely allied. Tu'ssilago. Colt's Foot. From tussis, a cough ; for curing which the flowers have been em- ployed. Nat. Ord. Composite. Hardy and half-hardy perennials, natives of central Europe. One of the species, T. Farfara, is common in wet places in the Middle and New England States, having be- come thoroughly naturalized. The variegated variety, the leaves margined with creamy- white, is a very ornamental plant, and can be used with good effect in shady positions, where other plants will not thrive. It does well as an edging to clumps of Ferns, or as a ground-work to other plants with graceful foliage. T. fragrans is named the Winter Helio- trope on account of the delicious fragrance of its purplish flowers in early spring ; a waste corner cannot be better occupied than by this sweet flower. They are of easy cultivation and are propagated by division of the roots, which are inclined to increase rapidly. Tutsan. A common name for Hypericum An- droscemum. Twayblade. See Listera. Twig Rush. The popular name for the com- mon bog or marsh plant, Cladium mariscoides. Twin Flower. A name applied to Linnma bo- realis, which see. Twin Flower. Scarlet. Bravoa geminiflora. 468 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS TWI Twin Leaf. The local name of the genus Jeffer- sonia, which see. The plant is also some- times called Rheumatism, Root. Tydae'a. Derivation not given. Nat. Ord. Ges- neracem. A genus of beautiful herbaceous plants, na- tives of the mountains of New Grenada. There are at present only four described spe- cies, which are better known under their old name of Achimenes, the best known being T. picta. "They are erect, robust herbs, with fine blotched leaves and axillary, bright-col- ored flowers. The calyx is connate with the ovary, the corolla almost funnel-shaped, and five-lobed ; the stamens are included, the ovary surrounded by five glands, the stigma five-cleft and the fruit a capsule." The Ges- neracecB have been much cut up and divided of late years, so that one hardly knows where to look for the plant he wants to find. See Achi- menes and Gesnera. Ty'pha. Cat-Tail Flag. From typhos, a marsh ; referring to the habitat of the species. Nat. Ord. Typhacece. T. latifolia, the common Cat-Tail Flag of our marshes, a native of Europe and the East, has become naturalized in almost all parts of the United States. It is also common in Eu- rope. A species with narrow leaves is more rare. The pollen of Typha is inflammable, like that of Lycopodium, and is used as a sub- stitute for it. The "Cat-Tail," in the minds ULM of most boys, is closely associated with the "Fourth of July," being largely used by them for "setting off" their fireworks and crackers. Typha'cese. A small natural order of reed-like plants, growing in marshes, ditches, or shal- low water, with long, narrow, parallel- veined leaves, and small flowers densely packed in cylindrical spikes or heads. There are very few species, but some of them are dispersed over nearly all parts of the world. They form two genera, Typha and Sparganiwm. Typho'nium. From Typhon, a mythological giant. Nat. Ord. Aroideoe,. A genus of tuberous, perennial herbs, differ- ing slightly botanically from Arum, natives of tropical Asia, the Pacific Islands and Aus- tralia. The species have large, showy leaves, and require the same general treatment as Colocasia. Tyto'nia. Water Balsam. Named after Arthur Tyton, by whom many of the oldest inhabi- tants of our gardens were preserved. Nat. Ord. Geraniacew. T. natans, the only species, is a stove aqua- tic, its large irregular flowers beautifully variegated with white, red and yellow. It should be grown in rich, loamy soil, in large pots or pans of water, in a warm part of the green-house. It is a native of tropical Asia, introduced in 1810, and can be increased by seeds sown in spring. Syn. Hydrocera tnflora. u. TTgni. A genus founded on a single Chilian U species which was at first referred to Eu- genia, but is now generally placed under Myrtus. M. Ugni has very agreeably flavored aromatic fruit, and succeeds admirably in the Southern States. See Myrtus. U'hdea. U. bipinnatifida is a stout-habited Mexican composite plant, valuable for sum- mer decoration. It is of robust growth, attain- ing a height of from four to six feet in deep, rich soils. The branching stems are clothed with slightly silvery or glaucous, irregular and deeply cut foliage. In sheltered positions on the lawn it forms noble, isolated specimens, or it may be judiciously grouped along with dark-leaved Ricinus or Cannas. U. pyrami- data is of a lighter and fresher green than the preceding, and is larger in habit, having more of the aspect of Malva in foliage. They are both readily propagated from cuttings, which are freely produced by old specimens taken up carefully in autumn and re-potted. Ulex. Furze. Oorse or Whin. Said to be taken from the Celtic ac, a point ; in allusion to its prickly branches. Nat. Ord. Legumi- noscB. A genus of very beautiful, evergreen shrubs, with yellow flowers, both double and single, indigenous to Great Britain and the south of Europe. They are highly esteemed for hedge plants, and the young tops are cut and fed to cattle and horses ; but their value as a food plant is considerably questioned. None of the species thrives in this country, being too tender for our Northern States, and too impatient of our tropical summers in the South. Uliginose. Inhabiting swampy places. U'llucus. From Ulluco, the Quitan name. Nat. Ord. Chenopodiacew. U. tuberosa, the only species, is a hali- hardy, fleshy, decumbent herb, with a sten. throwing out thread-like branches, which, when they enter the earth, produce edible tubers. The plant is extensively cultivated for these tubers in the mountains of Bolivia and Peru, under the name of Oca-quina. It is in- teresting, as having been unsuccessfully tried as a substitute for the Potato. Syn. Melloca. Ulma'ceae. Now included as a sub-tribe of Urti- cacem. C'lmus. Elm. Supposed to be from the Saxon word elm or ulm, a name which is applied, with very slight alterations, to the trees of this genus in all dialects of the Celtic tongue. Nat. Ord. UrticaceoR. This genus takes the first rank in the grea* army of American trees. When asked, " What is the handsomest tree in America ? " we un- hesitatingly say, " U. Americana, the Ameri- can Water or White Elm. " Of the several species that make up this genus, none in a?iy respect compares with this. U. fulva is t le common Bed or Slippery Elm. U. racemaa TULIPA GRF.IGI. TULIP (DOUBLE SCABLET TOURNESOL). TULIPA GESNERIANA (SINGLE TULIP). 468 TULIPS (VARIETIES OF). TULIP (PABBOT). VEHBENA (TYPES OF) AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 469 UMB is the Cork, Hickory or Cliff Elm. U. alata is the Winged Elm or Whahoo of the South and West. The celebrated English Elm is U. cam- pestris. All the species are propagated from seeds. Umbel. An inflorescence in which the stalks radiate from a common point and form a flat or convex surface above, as in the Carrot. It is simple or compound. Umbellate. Disposed in or resembling the um- bels. Umbelli'feree. One of the most natural and, consequently, most easily recognized orders of plants, but one of the most difficult to divide into well-defined genera. It consists of herbs, often strongly scented, with small flowers, usually in a simple or compound umbel which has given the name to the order. They inhabit, for the most part, woods, bogs, marshes and dry places, principally in the northern parts of the northern hemisphere. As the equator is approached they become less known, and in the southern hemisphere they are comparatively rare. Though mostly herbs, these plants sometimes attain a gigan- tic size, as in some species of Heracleum and Angelica. Dr. Welwitsch, moreover, mentions having found in tropical Africa, in the region of the Golungo Alto, an arboreous umbellifer with a stem one foot and a half in diameter, which is prized highly by the natives for its medicinal properties and for its value as a , timber tree. This, so far as at present known, is the most gigantic plant of the order. The Umbelliferce number at least fifteen hundred species, divided amongst nearly three hundred genera, many of which are important as pro- ducing articles of food ; many are poisonous ; most are merely unimportant weeds ; a few, like Astrantia, are furnished with gay colors, and thus become objects of decoration. One of them, Bolax Glebaria, forms huge tussocks in the Falkland Islands, resembling hay-cocks. Of the harmless species, in which, with a little aroma, there is no inconsiderable quantity of - acrid watery matter or gum-resinous secre- tion, must be more particularly named Celery, Fennel, Samphire, Parsley, and the roots of the Carrot, Parsnip and Skirret (Sium Sis- arum). The roots of Eryngium campestre and E. maritimum, commonly called Eryngo, are sweet, aromatic and tonic. The aromatic roots of Meum athamanticum and M. Mutellina form an ingredient in Venice treacle. Angelica Root (Archangelica officinalis), is fragrant, sweet when first tasted, but leaving a glowing heat in the mouth. Others are gum-resinous, as the species of Ferula and Narthex, yielding Asafcetida, the fetid odor of which is supposed to be owing to sulphur in combination with a peculiar essential oil. Of aromatic and carminative fruits, the most celebrated are Anise (Pimpinella Anisum), Dill (Anethum graveolens), Caraway (Carum Carui) and Coriander (Coriandrum sativum). Besides these, great numbers of less note are also employed for the same reason, the chief of which are the Ajwains or Ajowains of India (species of Ptychotis), Honeywort (Sison Amo- trnum), whose fruits smell of bugs, and Cummin (Cuminum Lyminum), now only used in veter- inary practice. Among poisons, Hemlock (Conium maculatum) holds the first place. An- thriscus vulgaris and A. sylvestris are not so UNI dangerous. JEtbusa Cynapium, (Enanthe cro- cata, (E. phellandrium, Cicuta maculata and C. virosa are other poisonous species. Umbellula'ria Californica. A name given to Ocotea or Oreodaphne Californica, the Califor- nian Sassafras. Umbi'licus. From umbilicus, the navel ; in al- lusion to the concave leaves of some of the species. Nat. Ord. CrassulaceoB. A genus of interesting plants, natives of southern Europe, the Levant and tropical Africa, and now usually placed under Cotyle- don. In some of the species the radical leaves are rosulate, or disposed like the petals in the flower of a double Rose; others have them alternate on the stalk ; in all they are fleshy. The flowers, which are either white or yellow, grow in branched or simple ra- cemes. They grow naturally in dry, stony places, are at home in a rock-work, and are often used for carpet bedding and edging. They grow well in pots, and require the same treatment as Echeverias and Sempervivums. Introduced in 1732. Umbraculiform. Umbrella-shaped. Umbrella China Tree. A variety of Melia Azedarach, which see. Umbrella Grass. The common name of Fuirena squarrosa. It is common in sandy, wet places from Massachusetts southward. Umbrella Palm. See Kentia. Umbrella Pine or Parasol Fir. See Sciado- pitys. Umbrella Tree. Magnolia Umbrella and M. tripetala, also Thespesia populnea and Pan- danus odoratissimus. Umbrosus. Growing in shady places. Unarmed. Destitute of spines or prickles; pointless. Unca'ria. From uncus, a hook ; the old peti- oles are converted into hooked spines. Nat. Ord. Rubiacem. A genus of about thirty species of climbing, shrubby plants, natives of the tropics. The most interesting species, U. Gambier, from which the Gambier of commerce is obtained, is a native of India and was introduced in 1825. Uncinate. Bent or curved at the tip, like a hook. Undershrub. A small, woody plant, the ends of its branches perishing annually. Undulate. Wavy or wavy-margined. Unguiculate. Furnished with a claw (unguis) ; that is, a narrow base ; as the petals of a Rose, where the claw is very short, and those of Pinks, where the claw is very long. Uni. In compound words, one, as Unifoliate, Uniflorus, etc. Unicorn Plant. A common name for Martynia lutea and M. proboscidea. Unicorn Root. Unicorn's Horn. The root of Helonias dioica, a native of New Jersey, Penn- sylvania, Virginia, etc. ; used as an anthel- mintic. Uniflorus. Supporting a single flower. Unifoliate. When a compound leaf consists of one leaflet only, as in the Orange-tree. Unilocular. One-celled. 470 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS UNI Uni'ola. Seaside Oat. From unus, one; so . called by Linnasus, owing to the union of the glumes. Nat. Ord. Graminacece. , A genus of grasses, natives principally of ' . the Southern States. U. paniculata and U. lati- folia are very ornamental and well worthy of cultivation. The dried spikes, both natural and dyed in different colors, are much used in bouquets, etc., of dried flowers and grasses. j U. Palmeri, collected near the mouth of the Colorado River, by Mr. Palmer, and described by him, is interesting as supplying the Indians of that section with a large amount of grain. " They come together at the proper season, in April, and gather this, to them, important article of food. As its quantity depends on the overflow of the tides, and the tides are sure to occur, they have an assured crop with- out any other labor than gathering and caring for the grain. * * * The grain has to be cut when a little green because of the easy separation of the spikelets. In order to dry the heads as quickly as possible large fires i are made, and the heads are piled around so that the flames penetrate between them. When they have been sufficiently exposed to the fire a stick is used to thrash the heads, which breaks up the spikelets, but does not separate the chaff or glumes from the grain. The dried and dissevered spikelets are then taken to a piece of ground prepared for the purpose, and the Indians tread upon and rub the grain between their feet until the seeds are shelled out. " This process is more easily accomplished after the grain has been exposed a while to the sun, but in any case it is pretty trying to the feet because of the sharp, stiff points of the chaff. The action of the tide knocks off and carries away considerable of the grain, but this is left in rows at the edge of the con- tiguous dry land, and the Indians gather • much of it and rub it out. They have to be expeditious in their harvest, as wind storms are liable to arise and destroy or injure the product of their labors." — Garden and Forest. Upas Tree. See Antiaris ioxicaria. Ura'nia. Traveler's Tree. From ouranios, sub- lime; in allusion to the stateliness of the tree. Nat. Ord. Scitaminece. U. speciosa, the only known representative of this genus, was formerly called Ravenala Madagascarienais. It is a magnificent plant, I having a palm-like appearance, and is called in Madagascar the Traveler's Tree, because the base of the leaves, when cut, yield an abundant and refreshing juice, with which travelers allay their thirst. The leaves are of gigantic size, somewhat like those of Musa Ensete, but arranged in two rows on opposite sides of the stems. Young plants are obtained by suckers or from seed. Urceo'la. A genus of Apocynacece, consisting of one species. U. elastica, a large, climbing, milky-juiced shrub or tree, frequently with a trunk as thick as a man's body, found only in Borneo, Sumatra, and other islands of the Eastern Archipelago, where its milky juice is collected and forms an inferior kind of Caout- chouc. It produces a fruit about the size of an orange, much relished both by the natives and by European residents. Urceolate. Pitcher-shaped, contracted at the mouth. URO Urceoli'na. Urn-Flower. From urceolus, a small cup or pitcher; in allusion to the smallness of the cup, or nectary, inside the flower. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. A small genus of handsome, summer-bloom- ing, Peruvian bulbs. The flowers are yellow,, red and green. They grow freely in the open border and require a long season of rest. They may be kept during winter like the Tigridias, and planted out in the border after all danger from frost is past. They were introduced in 1837, and are propagated by offsets. Syn. Pentlandia. Urens. Stinging. Urgi'nea. From the name of an Arab tribe, Ben Urgin, in Algeria. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. A genus of over twenty bulbous plants of little interest. The bulbs of U. maritima, the old Scilla maritima, are known in medicine as Squills. The species are natives of the Mediterranean region, and have large bulbs, whence proceed the leaves and long-stalked racemes of flowers, the latter, however, being produced first. Urn Flower. See Urceolina. Urope'dium. From oura, a tail, and podion, a slipper ; in allusion to tho long-tailed petals. Nat. Ord. Orchidacew. A genus of terrestrial Orchids nearly re- lated to Cypripedium. It consists of only one described species, U. Lindeni, a native of New Grenada, which is found growing at an eleva- tion of 8,500 feet above the sea level. It dif- fers from Cypripedium in its broader, flattened lip, and extremely long-tailed petals. The leaves are about a foot long, oblique at the extremity, shining, and fleshy in texture. The flowers are solitary, produced on long peduncles; the sepals are ovate-lanceolate, yellow, streaked with orange ; the petals are- linear-lanceolate, extended into a long, nar- row tail, a foot or more in length, and purple- orange at the base. This is a remarkable and very interesting plant, which should find a place in every collection. It was introduced in 1849, and requires the same treatment as Cypripedium. This genus is included by some authorities under Selenipedium. Urope'talum. From oura, a tail, and petalon, a petal ; the petals are lengthened into tail-like appendages. Nat. Ord. LiliacecB. A small genus of Cape bulbs, very singular and interesting. The flowers are green, or green and orange, borne on slender scapes in terminal racemes. They are tender, and. must be kept warm and dry during winter, and planted out in the border in early spring. They were first introduced in 1808, and are propagated by offsets. Syn. Dipcadi. Uroski'nnera Spectabilis is the sole representa- tive of a Central American genus of Scrophu- lariacew, named in honor of Mr. G. Ure Skin- ner, who introduced so many new plants from Central America to our gardens. It is an undershrub somewhat resembling in habit certain Gesneraceoz, and covered in all parts with soft hairs. The rosy-violet, rather large flowers, are arranged in terminal, crowded panicles, and supported by filiform bracts. It was introduced from Mexico in 1856, and may be increased by cuttings in heat. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 471 URO Urospa'tha. From oura, a tail, and spatha, a spathe ; referring to the long-pointed spathe in most of the species. Nat. Ord. Aroidece. A genus of warm-house Arads with thick rhizomes, natives of tropical America. U. dehiscens and U. sagittifolia are in cultivation and require a great deal of water when grow- ing. They may be propagated by division of the root-stock. TTrospe'rmum. Sheep's Beard. From ouros, a tail, and spermum, a seed ; alluding to the beaked, hard, dry, one-seeded fruit. Nat. Ord. Composite. A small genus of hardy, annual or biennial, slightly-branched plants, natives of the south of Europe. U. Dalechampi is a handsome biennial, of dwarf tufted growth, producing heads of large, lemon-colored blossoms. It thrives in any light soil in an open position and is quite hardy. Syn. Amopogon. Ursi'nia. A genus of Composites, included un- der Sphenogyne. Urti'ca. Nettle. From uro, to burn ; in refer- ence to the stinging properties of most of the species. Nat. Ord. Urticacem. The Roman Nettle, U. pilulifera, is some- times grown in gardens as an ornamental annual, but the sting is much worse than that of U. dioica, the common Nettle. Some of the exotic species are very handsome ; as, for example, U. reticulata, a native of Jamaica, which has red and yellow flowers and deep green leaves. The stinging effects of U. uren- tissima (Devil's Leaf), a native of Timor, are said to be so violent as to last for twelve months, and sometimes to cause death. Many species produce excellent fibre, and several are considered to possess medicinal proper- ties. There are several native and natural- ized species, all troublesome weeds. Urtica'ceae. A natural order consisting of trees, shrubs, or herbs, from almost every part of the globe, with alternate and lobed leaves furnished with stipules and small, in- conspicuous, unisexual flowers, usually in 1 cymes or heads, not in catkins. They possess narcotic qualities and yield valuable fibres. • Cannabis sativa yields the well-known Hemp, one of our most valuable fibres. It is im- ported in large quantities from Russia, and is produced in a small way in this country. The plant grows naturally in the cooler parts of India, and there develops narcotic quali- ties, which seem to reside in the resin which covers the leaves. What are called Hemp Seeds, used for the food of birds, are in real- ity Hemp fruits, each containing a single seed. Humulus Lupulus, the well-known Hop, possesses both tonic and hypnotic properties, that is, a power to produce sleep. The scales of the Hop heads are covered with resinous matter, which has an aromatic odor. Among the other important numbers of this order may be enumerated the Bread-fruit Tree (Arctocarpus incisa), Elm (Ulmus), Fig (Ficus Carica), India-rubber Plant (Ficus elastica) and Mulberry {Morus alba and M. nigra). Several of the species are valuable as timber trees. It includes nearly one hundred and ten gen- era and fifteen hundred species. Usnea. This word is said to have originated in the Arabic achneh, or achnen, which is, accord- ing to Golius, the name by which the Arabian UVU physicians designate Lichens in general. A genus of Lichens, the species of which grow on rocks and trunks of trees, from which latter circumstance they are often called Tree Moss or Tree Hair. Some of -the southern species, as U. Melaxantha are magnificent. In the stems of this (which attains a considerable size), concentric zones of growth have been observed by Sir J. D. Hooker. Ustilago. From ustus, burnt; in allusion to the scorched appearance of the organs of the host-plants, in which the spores are developed. This genus is interesting as including the various kinds of Smut which are so injurious to grasses, wheat, corn, etc. Utricle. A small, bladdery pericarp ; any thin, bottle-like body ; the two confluent glumes of Carex. Utricula'ria. Bladderwort. From utriculus, a little bladder; applied to the small inflated appendages of the roots. Nat. Ord. Lentibu- lariacece. A genus of curious aquatic plants, common throughout the United States. They are par- ticularly interesting in that during the early stage of the plant, the small, bladder-like ap- pendages at the roots are filled with water ; but when the flowers are ready to expand they become filled with air. After the season of flowering, the vesicles become again filled with water, and the plant descends to ripen its seeds at the bottom. U. minor, U. vulgaris, U. minor and U. neglecta are worthy of being grown as curiosities. U. Endresii (pale lilac), introduced from Costa Rica in 1874, and U. montana (white), from the West Indies in 1871, very beautiful stove-house epiphytes with showy, Orchid-like flowers, are often grown in the Orchid-house, and succeed best in baskets of fibry peat and sphagnum, sus- pended near the glass. Z7. Humboldtii and U. reniformis grow best in large pans of sphagnum partially plunged in water. They are very beautiful and interesting plants. Utriculiform. Having the shape of a bottle. Uva'ria. From uva, a cluster of grapes ; allud- ing to the fruits of some of the species. Nat. Ord. AnonaceoR. A genus of twining or climbing shrubby plants, natives of tropical Africa and Asia. Several species, formerly included here, are now referred to other genera. U. Kirkii is a medium-sized undershrub, and U. Zeylanicum, a large woody climber. Both thrive in a com- post of sandy loam and leaf mould, and are increased by cuttings of the ripened wood in heat. Uvula'ria. Bellwort. The plants were formerly used in diseases of the uvula; whence the name. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. A small genus of very handsome, hardy, herbaceous perennials with lily-like flowers, borne solitary, or rarely in pairs, on slender peduncles, from the uppermost leaves. The flowers are bright and greenish yellow. U. grandiflora grows from one to two feet high, with long, clear yellow, drooping flowers, very attractive in early summer. It is an excellent plant for a partially shaded position in the rock-garden. There are several other species common throughout the United States, in rich, moist, shady woods. 472 HENDEESON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS V. VAC Yacca'ria. Cow Herb. Named from vacca, a cow. Nat. Ord. Caryophyllacece. A coarse-growing, hardy, herbaceous per- ennial, formerly called Saponaria Vaccaria. It was introduced into the garden, but has escaped and become common in waste places. Vaccinia'ceee. A natural order consisting of much-branched shrubs or small trees, often evergreen, with alternate, undivided leaves without stipules, the flowers growing solitary or in racemes, often richly-colored, and the fruit, usually a berry, frequently edible. The species are numerous in the temperate and colder parts of the world, especially in swamps or sub-alpine countries, and on moun- tain chains within the tropics. They are dis- tributed into about twenty-five genera and over three hundred species, the greater num- ber being included in Vaccinium and Thibau- dia. Vacci'nium. High-bush Cranberry, Blueberry, Bilberry. An ancient Latin name, whether of a berry or a flower is not satisfactorily known. Nat. Ord. Vacciniacece. An extensive genus of interesting shrubs, many of which are indigenous to the United States, and others to Europe and the East and West Indies. V. macrocarpa of some authors is the Large or American Cranberry, common in bogs North and West. V. stami- neum is the Squaw Huckleberry, common in dry woods from Maine to Michigan. V. uligi- nosum is the Bog Bilberry, a low-growing spe- cies, common in high elevations in New Eng- land and New York. V. corymbosum is the common or Swamp Blueberry, everywhere com- mon except southward. V. Vitis-Idcea— the vine of Mount Ida — is the Cow-berry found sparingly in this country but common in Britain. The beautiful, white-berried, green- house shrub, V. leucobotrys, though rarely seen in collections in this country, is well worthy of cultivation. It was introduced un- der the name of Epigynium leucobotrys from Bengal in 1859. There are many other spe- cies and varieties, the slight difference in them noticeable only by the botanist. For the common Cranberry and its culture, see Oxycoccus. Vaginate. Sheathed ; surrounded by a sheath. Valdi'via. So called from the town of Valdivia in Chili. A genus of Saxifragacem, consisting of a single species. It is a singular and ornamen- tal, small, half-hardy, evergreen shrub, with short, erect, pyramidal panicles of pretty rose-colored flowers, the tube-like portion of which is angular, and the tips of the petals recurved ; the flowers are three-quarters of an inch long. Introduced in 1863. Valerian. See Valeriana. Valeria'na. Said by some to be named after Valerius, who first used it in medicine ; others assert that it is derived from valere, to be in health, on account of the medicinal qualities of V. officinalis. Nat. Ord. Valerianacew. Hardy perennials, most of them showy bor- VAL der plants of easy culture. Some of them have long been in cultivation. Those best known are natives of Switzerland. The golden- leaved variety of V. Phu is a highly effect- ive plant, particularly in spring, when its foliage is newly developed. It is of tufted, neat habit, grows freely in any soil and is per- fectly hardy. There are several native spe- cies, from which the tincture of Valerian is obtained. All the species are propagated by division. Valeriana'ceae. A natural order consisting of annual or perennial herbs, usually strong- scented or aromatic (especially their roots), with rather small, but often elegant, flowers in terminal cymes or panicles. They are found in temperate climates, chiefly in the mountains of the northern hemisphere or of South America. The medicinal qualities of the order have been known from ancient times, and the plants now take rank at the head of the vegetable anti-spasmodics. About a dozen genera are included in the order, and nearly three hundred species. Centranthus, Valeriana and Valerianella are the most famil- iar examples. Valerianella. Lamb's Lettuce, Fetticus, Corn Salad. A diminutive of Valerian. Nat. Ord. Valerianacem. A genus comprising about fifty species of small, hardy, annual herbs, with repeatedly- forked stems, natives of Europe, North Africa, Western Asia and North America. V. olitoria, a native of Great Britain, generally known as Fetticus, is the only species of economic in- terest. It is used as a salad and is sown and cultivated exactly as Spinach. It is also grown to a large extent by the German gar- deners around New York in cold frames, as an early spring salad. Syn. Fedia olitoria. Valerian Greek. A common name for Pole- monium cozruleum, which see. Valerian. Bed or Spur. Centranthus ruber. Vallisne'ria. Eel Grass, Tape Grass. Named in honor of A. Vallisneri, an Italian botanist. Nat. Ord. Hydrocharidacew. A genus of aquatic plants, common in slow- running waters, remarkable on account of the extremely curious manner in which the pro- cess of fertilization is effected. The male and female flowers are on different plants, and the latter rise on long spiral stalks, which grad- ually uncoil above the surface of the water, while the latter are produced at the bottom. Before, however, the anthers burst to dis- charge the pollen, the male flowers detach themselves from their stalks, and rise up to the surface, on whicn they float like little white bubbles. After the pollen has been distributed over the stigmas, the male flow- ers wither, and the spiral stalks of the females coil up again so as to draw the seed- vessel under the water, that it may ripen at the bottom and burst when just in the proper place to deposit its seeds. Nothing can be more beautiful than the whole arrangement; AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 473 VAL and nothing can show more strikingly the ad- mirable manner in which the wonderful economy of nature is carried on. V. spiralis, the best known and only species in our waters, is admirably adapted for growing in the aqua- rium. Besides being a beautiful evergreen, one of the essentials for the aquarium, one can, by growing it, witness that wonderful and interesting phenomenon in plant life. Vallo'ta. Scarborough Lily. Named in honor of Pierre Vallot, a French botanist. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. V. purpurea, the only known species, is a native of the Cape of Good Hope, where it is found in boggy places. It is an evergreen bulb, producing its splendid spikes of brilliant scarlet blossoms (not purple, as the name im- plies) in August, and occasionally at other periods. It is one of the most showy of the interesting family to which it belongs, and the little care required to grow it makes it par- ticularly desirable. It does best with ordinary pot culture, requiring liberal watering, except for a few months in winter. The bulbs should not often be separated, but occasionally shifted into larger pots when they become thoroughly root-bound. Too frequent shiftings are in- jurious to this bulb; they do much better when pinched, and it is not an uncommon occurrence to see twenty-five flower spikes, with five or eight flowers each, at one time, from a ten-inch pot of the bulbs. They increase rapidly from offsets, which may be picked off the top of the pot without disturbing the main bulbs. They may be grown successfully in the border, and dried off in winter, like the Gladiolus, except that they should be taken up after a slight frost and packed away in boxes of earth, without disturbing the tops, water- ing only once or twice during the winter. There are two or three varieties, differing only in the size of the flowers. Introduced in 1774. Valo'nia. A commercial name for the large capsules, or Acorn cups, of Quercus JEgilops, which are used for tanning, dyeing and mak- ing ink. Valora'dia plumbaginoides. A synonym of Plumbago Larpentai. Valvate. United by the margins only, as the valves of a capsule. Valves. The doors by which various bodies open ; the term is also applied to the pieces into which a capsule splits. Va'nda. Vanda is the Sanscrit name of the original species of this genus. Nat. Ord. Orchidacem. A genus of magnificent epiphytal Orchids from tropical Asia. Several of the species are found in our best Orchid houses, where they are most conspicuous objects, both on account of the size and beautiful colors and markings of the flowers, and for their deli- cious fragrance. The plants may be attached to blocks of wood or cork, and suspended from the roof of the house. From March till May the heat should range from 70° to 90°, or even more in sunny weather, and every morning and evening they should be sur- rounded with vapor, besides an application of water from the syringe once a day. From May till September, which with us is the blooming season, the same degree of heat should be maintained, but with a diminution of the moisture as the flowers advance ; and VAR afterward, through the winter, moisture may be withheld, and the temperature reduced to 60°. Some of the species have been under cultivation since 1810. V. tricolor, one of the best, was introduced in 1846. Of this species there are some fifteen or more varieties, all of great beauty. V. cozrulea, a most lovely light- blue species, introduced from Khasya in 1849, requires less heat than the other kinds, and sometimes succeeds best under green-house treatment. They are propagated by carefully detaching the lateral shoots, when about six inches long. Vani'lla. An alteration of Vaynilla, which is a diminutive of Vaina, a Spanish word, signify- ing a sheath ; in reference to the cylindrical pod being like the sheath of a knife. Nat. Ord. Orchidacece. A small genus of tropical, climbing Orchids, one of the most important of the whole fam- ily, ngt because of its flowers, but for the commercial value of the fruit, which is uni- versally used in the preparation of extracts for flavoring. The best Vanilla is the prod- uce of V. planifolia, a native of Mexico (Chapman, in his " Flora of the Southern States," credits Curtiss as having found this species on the borders of the Everglades), but several other South American species are also used. The flowers of this genus are white, striped with red, and quite insignifi- cant; these flowers are succeeded by pods about six inches in length and one-fourth of an inch in diameter. The pod contains, be- sides its numerous seeds, a black, oily and balsamic substance, which, recently gathered, is humid, and its odor is said to produce intoxication. The pods are gath- ered during the last three months of the year, and are carefully dried by exposure to the sun's rays until they are made warm, in which state they are wrapped in woolen cloths to promote and absorb evaporation. When thoroughly cured they are ready for shipment. The extract is obtained by cut- ting the pods in small pieces, and pulverizing in a mortar containing about four parts of fine glass to one of Vanilla. It requires a great amount of labor to get the Vanilla fine enough for the dilute alcohol to act upon it in a manner that will secure the whole. After the pulverized mass has been in alcohol for several days, it is filtered through paper, and is fit for use. Vanilla Plant. The popular name of IAatris odoratissima. Vanilla or Seneca Grass. See Hierochloe 6o- realis. Variabilis. Presenting a variety of character ; as when leaves are variously modified on the same plant. Variegated. Irregularly colored. Variegated Laurel. Aucuba Japonica. Variegated Rush. See Scirpus. Variety. A term indicating a lower grade or sub-division, next to the species ; as the dif- ferent sorts of Pears, Apples, Geraniums, Roses, etc. A variety can only be propagated with cer- tainty by grafts, cuttings, bulbs, tubers, or any other method which produces a new plant by the development of one or more buds taken from the old one. 474 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS VAK Variolate. Marked as if by the pustules or pit- tings of small-pox. Varnish Tree. A common name for Ailantus glandulosus, Rhus vernicifera, etc. Vascular. Furnished with, or relating to ves- sels or ducts. Vasculum. A botanist's collecting-box. The term is also applied to a pitcher-shaped leaf. Vases. These are formed of iron, stone, earth- enware etc., and are usually raised on a pedes- tal to a height of four or five feet. They are of various sizes and patterns. The bowls for the soil vary in depth from six to eighteen inches ; but in all cases holes must be made in the bottom (if not already there) to allow free drainage for water, for, without these (and some are made without them), the soil would soon get saturated and sour. Almost the same character of plants is used for plant- ing vases as for window boxes (which see). A very beautiful practice is now in use to plant them in early spring with Pansies, which re- main in bloom until June, the time at which the summer plants are ready to be planted to take their place. Vases are usually exposed to the full force of the sun on the open lawn, and, consequently, require a great deal of watering to keep them in good condition. By mulching the surface with moss during sum- mer, evaporation will be checked and a great deal of labor saved. Vauqueli'nia. A genus of Rosacece comprising one species with saw-toothed leaves and pure white flowers. It was first described by Dr. Torrey as Spireea Calif ornica, but was referred to its right genus by Mr. Watson. It is a na- tive of Mexico, Arizona, etc. Vegetable Fire-cracker. A common name for Brodiaca coccinea. Vegetable Hair. A name given to Tillandsia vAneoides. Vegetable Horse-hair. The fibre of Chamwrops humilis. Vegetable Ivory-nut. See Phytolephas. Vegetable Marrow or Midshipman's Butter. See Persea. Vegetable Marrow. An English name for a variety of summer Squash. The one usually grown is about nine inches long and four to five in diameter. It is used in every stage of its growth, and is particularly tender and sweet. It is grown in all respects like the several varieties of our summer Squashes. Vegetable Mercury. See Franciscea. Vegetable Oyster. See Tragopogon porrifolius. Vegetable Sheep. A name given to Cibotivm Barometz. Veins. The small ribs or branches of the frame- work of leaves. Vei'tchia. Named in honor of the late James Veitch, of Chelsea, London ; the leading nur- seryman of his day. Nat. Ord. PalmacecB. A beautiful genus of Palms closely allied to Kentia, with which they are often confounded. Two species are described, and are valued ornaments of our stoves. Introduced from the New Hebrides and Fiji in 1868 (syn. Ken- tia). The name was formerly applied by Dr. Lindley to a curious Japanese conifer, since proven to be a monstrous state of some Picea. VEN Ve'lla. Said to be Latinized from Veler, a Celtic name for such a plant. Nat. Ord. Cru- ciferce. A small genus of much-branched, half- hardy shrubs, natives of Spain. V. Pseudo- cytisus, the species most generally cultivated, has large, yellow flowers, with long, dark purple claws and entire leaves. It may be increased by cuttings in spring. Vellei'a. Named after Major Velley, who was greatly interested in Alga. Nat. Ord. Goode- niacem. A genus of green-house, perennial herbs, having a short, thick stock and radical leaves, natives of Australia. Their flowers are yel- low, like those of the Goodenia, and they are closely allied to Euthales. Vello'zia. Named after Velloz, a Portuguese naturalist, who edited the works of Vandelli on Brazil. Nat. Ord. Amarillidacece. The Vellozias are like perennial Lilies, and grow from two to ten feet high, having trunks as large as a man's body, branching, and hav- ing tufts of leaves on the top like the Yucca. The flowers are large, white, blue or violet, produced singly or on slender scapes from the tips of the branches. They are showy and attractive features in the mountain re- gions of Brazil and Australia. Syn. Barbacenia. Velthei'mia. Named in honor of F. A. Velt- heim, a German botanist. Nat. Ord. Liliacew. Large-growing bulbs from the Cape of Good Hope. The flowers are flesh-color and of but little beauty, though of long duration. V. viridifolia has beautiful, broad, shining, green leaves, with undulated margins and a flower scape one to two feet long. It is a very interesting and showy species. The bulbs rest the entire summer, and come into bloom in early winter. They are grown from seed, which they produce freely. The bulbs rarely divide or make offsets. Introduced in 1781. Velvet Flower. A common name for Amaran- thua caudatus. Velvet Grass. See Holcus. Velvet Leaf. Abutilon Avicennce and Lavatera arborea. Venation. The arrangement of veins in a leaf, etc. Veni'dium. Meaning of the name not given. Nat. Ord. Composite. A genus of green-house or half-hardy, per- ennial plants, natives of southern Africa. V. calendulaceum is a low-growing plant, some- what of a trailer, bearing, in summer, a pro- fusion of showy, Marigold-like, yellow blos- soms. Cuttings put in in August root freely, or plants may be readily raised from seed& sown in spring. It is the best of the genus- and well worthy of cultivation. Venose. Veiny ; having many branched veins. Ventila'go. From ventilo, to be exposed to the wind, and ago, to drive away; in allusion to the fruit being winged, and scattered by the wind. Nat. Ord. Rhamnacew. A genus of stove-house, climbing shrubs, found all over the tropics. V. madraspatana is the only species in cultivation, and is rarely seen except in botanical collections. Ventilating. Or " Airing," as gardeners call it, is an important operation in growing plants. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 475 VEN under glass, and ignorance or carelessness in the work often results in dire disaster to the contents of the hot-bed, green-house or grap- ery. It often happens, when inexperienced carpenters undertake the erecting of green- • house structures, that they are built with en- tirely inadequate means of ventilation, so that, no matter how careful the person in charge may be, he has not the means allowed to pro- vide sufficient ventilation. In a span-roofed green-house or grapery, having a base width of twenty feet, the glass roofs sloping to the east and west will be each about thirteen feet, making twenty-six feet in the span. To prop- erly ventilate a structure of this kind, mov- able sashes, not less than thirty inches in width, extending the entire length of the roof, should be hinged to the apex on the east side. The sashes, when lifted up by the patent ventilating apparatus, are raised from one inch to thirty inches, as desired, the entire length ; thus, when fully up, about one-tenth part of the entire glass roof is thrown open for ventilation ; and in hot days this is often found to be none too much. In a series of green-houses, requiring different tempera- tures, it is a good plan to mark the maximum and minimum allowed for ventilation close to each thermometer, so that the workman in charge of ventilating can be held to account- ability; for example, if 70 is the degree re- quired, let the maximum of temperature be 75° and the minimum 65°, allowing a range of ten degrees. The patent ventilating appa- ratus usually costs about fifty to seventy-five cents per running foot ; but it is indispensable to a well-regulated green-house or grapery, from its power to grade the amount of venti- lation to suit all weathers. In the use of por- table sashes for hot-beds or frames, the best way to ventilate is to raise the sash at the back by pieces of wood so notched that from one inch to five or six inches can be given as required. Ventral. Belonging to that side of a simple pistil, or other organ, which looks towards the axis or centre of the flower ; the opposite of dorsal. Ventricose. side. Inflated, or swelled out on one Ventriculose. Abounding in veinlets. Venus' Fly-trap. See Dioncea muscipula. Venus' Hair. A common name for Adianturn Capillus-veneris. Venus' Looking-Glass. See Specularia specu- lum. Venus' Navelwort. See Omphatodes. Venus' Slipper. See Cypripedium insigne. Vera'trum. False or White. Hellebore. From vere, truly, and ater, black ; in allusion to the color of the roots. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. A genus of hardy, herbaceous, coarse-grow- ing plants, with large, coarse,, fibrous roots, which are very poisonous. V. viride, a species common in swamps and marshy gnounds, is popularly known as White Hellebore or In- dian Poke. The powdered roots of this species and V. album are used to destroy Caterpillars, Rose Beetles and other insects. It is the base of some of the so-called Persian Insect Powders, which should therefore be used with care. VER Verba'scum. Mullein. Aaron's Club. Said to be from barbascum, bearded ; in allusion to the bearded filaments. Nat. Ord. Scrophu- lariaceoz. An extensive genus of rather coarse-grow- ing, more or less woolly, biennial or perennial herbs, natives of Europe, northern Africa and west and central Asia. V. Chaixi or V. ver- nale, as it is sometimes called, is a true per- ennial and is one of the most showy of the species. It grows to the height of ten feet and its large, green leaves are extremely effective. The color is good and the panicle of flowers enormous. The quantity of yellow flowers with purplish filaments that are borne on one of these great branching panicles is something marvelous. It is well suited for the back of a mixed border, for grouping with other plants of remarkable size or form of foli- age, or for placing here and there in open spaces in the shrubbery. V. phceniceum is a very handsome species, distinct from all the others by the flowers being of various hues, but usually of a violet-blue, overlying a yel- low ground striped with violet. It is of slen- der growth, from two to four feet high, and the flowers, which are large and showy, are pro- duced numerously in long spikes. Verbe'na. Vervain. Said to be from its Celtic name, Ferfoen. Nat. Ord. Verbenacece. The beauty of this extensive genus is well known, and needs no comment. They are all peculiarly adapted for growing in beds in the flower-garden and are extensively grown for that purpose. As a decorative plant they are, comparatively, of recent introduction. Our garden varieties have all originated from the following species : V. melindres, a low, creep- ing plant with intense scarlet flowers, intro- duced from Buenos Ayres in 1827. V. Tweedi- ana, of freer growth and more upright habit, umbels larger, and florets more profuse, but of a less vivid color, was introduced in 1834 from Brazil. V. teucrioides, a taller-growing spe- cies, of much coarser habit, with flowers of pure white, in narrow-pointed spikes, and very fragrant, was introduced from Monte- video in 1837. V. multifida, with lilac-purple flowers, was introduced from Peru in 1818. These species we understand were first intro- duced to this country by W. C. Brackenridge, of Baltimore ; and Robert Buist, of Philadel- phia, quick to see their adaptability as bed- ding plants, was the first to cross-breed them and introduce many new sorts, the parents of the many varieties now in commerce. Several species have been found in the United States, and among them V. montana, a hardy peren- nial from the Rocky Mountains, a very free- flowering species, with flowers of a bright rose, changing to lilac — a decided acquisition to the flower-garden. V. aubletia, with spikes of showy, purple flowers, a hardy biennial, is found in Illinois and westward. V. venosa is a beautiful, half-hardy perennial species in- troduced from Brazil in 1830, not so well known as it deserves. Its lilac or bluish flow- ers are produced in great profusion rendering it a first-rate subject for bedding, especially if mixed with silver-leaved Geraniums. It is easily kept through the winter, and if its fleshy roots are stored thickly in boxes, any number of plants may be propagated in the spring from the young shoots that are abund- antly produced. It is easily raised from seed 476 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS VER which should be sown four months before the plants are wanted, as the seed is frequently- slow in germinating. Verbenas are easily grown from seed, which should be sown in a hot-bed or the green-house in early spring, and once pricked out before planting in the flower-bed. Plants from seed will be more vigorous than from cuttings ; but when spe- cial colors are wanted seedlings cannot be de- pended upon. At the low price the plants are now sold in the markets, it is cheaper to buy them than to grow them from seed ; but when the amateur is not convenient to the florist, the supply can be easily kept up from seed. In growing Verbenas, successive plantings should not be made on the same ground ; the less frequently the better. It is not that they exhaust the soil that renders a change neces- sary, but when grown more than once on the same spot, they are far more liable to be attacked by the Aphis at the roots, which is fatal to them. The varieties selected by flo- rists in the United States are far superior to those of Europe, so that for the past twenty years hardly any importations have been made of either seeds or plants. The plant is better suited to our climate, and is far more exten- sively cultivated here than in Europe. The Verbena delights in a sweet, turfy loam ; clayey or sandy soils should be avoided in the selection of the bed. Verbena Oil Plant. A name given to Andro- pogon Schmnanthus. Verbena. Sand. A common name for Abro- nia. Verbena. dora. Sweet Scented. See Aloysia citrio- Verbena'cese. A natural order of trees, shrubs or herbs, widely scattered over the warmer parts of the globe, and especially abundant in south temperate regions, a few genera only being found in Europe, northern Asia and North America. Teak, one of the most im- portant timbers in the world, is the wood of Tectona grandis. The well-known Lemon Verbena, Aloysia (Lippia) citrioidora, and sev- eral species of Lantana are used as Tea. The order is distributed into over fifty genera and nearly seven hundred species. Clerodendron, Lantana, Verbena and Vitex are good exam- ples. Verbesi'na. Crown Beard. Altered from Ver- bena, which some of the species are supposed to resemble. Nat. Ord. Compositm. A genus of annual or perennial herbs or shrubs, natives of the West Indies, California, Texas and Mexico. V. encelioides is a showy, half-hardy species, one to two feet high, with broad clusters of yellow flowers. V. gigantea, an ornamental shrub from Jamaica, about six feet high, forms, when young, a very pleasing plant for decorative purposes, its round, green stems being covered with large, winged, pin- nate leaves of a glistening, delicate green color and very elegant outline. V. pinnatifida is a roughish, half-shrubby species, with a winged stem and woolly, oval leaves with lobed or toothed margins. They may be in- creased by seeds or divisions; the shrubby species by cuttings. Syn. Ximenesia. Verei'a. A synonym of Kalanchoe. Vermicular. Worm-shaped. Vernal. Appearing in spring. VER Vernal-Grass. The common name for Anthox~ anthum odoratum. Vernation. bud. The arrangement of leaves in a Vernicose. Covered with natural varnish ; ap- pearing as if varnished. Verno'nia. Iron Weed. Named in honor of William Vernon, a botanical traveler in North America. Nat. Old. Composite. A very large genus of herbs or shrubs, chiefly tropical, but found most copiously in the warmer parts of America. V. Novebora- censis is common on low grounds near the coast, from Maine to Virginia, and with V. fasciculata on the prairies and river-banks in the Western States, Ohio to Wisconsin and southward. Vero'nica. Speedwell. The derivation of the word is doubtful ; perhaps the flower of St. Veronica. Nat. Ord. Scrophulariaceai. An extensive genus of, for the most part, hardy ornamental plants, well adapted for the borders of the flower garden. Their stature varies from creeping plants to others three or four feet high. The prevailing color is blue, though white, pink, red and purple are found among them. The green-house species are most generally shrubby and deserve atten- tion, being easy to grow and flower, and they are handsome in foliage, habit and inflores- cence. This class delights in a mixture of leaf mould and loam, and with plenty of root- room speedily make fine specimens. The spe- cies usually met in the green-house are from New South Wales. The hardy, herbaceous species are distributed throughout the tem- perate regions of both continents. The shrubby kinds are generally increased by cut- tings ; the herbaceous or annual sorts by di- vision or by seeds. Verrucose. Warty; covered with wart-like, sessile elevations. Versatile. Turning freely on its support, swing- ing to and fro. Verschaffe'ltia. Named in honor of Ambrosius Verschaffelt, a nurseryman of Ghent, who wrote a work on Camellias in 1848. Nat. Ord. PaU macem. V. splendida, the only recognized species, was introduced from the Seychelle Islands in 1864. It is a very handsome stove-house species with cuneate-obovate, deeply-incised leaves, three to five feet long. The stem is six to twelve inches in diameter and with the leaf-sheaths and petioles very spiny when young. It is known in cultivation as Regelia magnifica, R. majestica and R. princeps. Vertex. The apex of an organ. Verticillate. Arranged in whorls. Vertico'rdia. Juniper Myrtle. From verto, to turn, and cor, cordis, a heart ; a title of Venus, to whom the Myrtle was sacred. Nat. Ord. Myrtace'ce. A genus of green-house shrubs, much re- sembling the Heaths or Diosmas, natives of Australia. They are of easy culture in a com- post of sandy loam and leaf-mould, and are readily increased by cuttings of the half- ripened shoots. VEBBASCUM OLYMPICUM. VERONICA (SHRUBBY). VINCA ROSEA. VICIA FABA (ENGLISH BROAD BEAN). VISCARIA OCULATA. VIOLET (MAKIE LOCISE). VISCUM (MISTLETOE). VIOLET (SINGLE). VIOTOUIA BEGIA (AMAZON WATEE LILT) AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 477 VER Vervain. See Verbena. Blue American. Verbena hastata. Rocky Mountain. Verbena montana (V. Au- bletia). Vesica'ria. From vesica, a bladder or blister; alluding to the inflated pods. Nat. Ord. Cru- cifercB. A genus of about twenty species of annual or perennial herbs, natives of North America, Europe, Asia and the Andes. A few species are worthy of cultivation, the others being straggly and weedy in appearance. The best known are V. grmca and V. utriculata, which have both been long in cultivation and flour- ish on dry, sunny parts of the rock-garden in dryish soil. They are easily increased by seeds. Vesicle. A small bladder or air cavity. Vesicular, Vesiculose. Inflated, bladdery. Vesli'ngia. Named after John Vesting, once Professor of Botany at Padua. Nat. Ord. Composite. A small genus of tropical African annuals with yellow flower-heads. According to Ben- tham and Hooker, Guizotia is the proper name of this genus. Vespertine. Appearing or expanding early in the evening. Vespu'ccia. Commemorative of Amerigo Ves- pucci. Nat. Ord. Alismacece. A small genus of aquatic plants, natives of tropical South America. Limnocharis Hum- boldtii has been referred to this genus, but is now placed by Bentham and Hooker under Hydrocleis as H. Commersoni. Ve'stia. Chilian Box Thorn. Named in honor of L. C. de Vest, Professor at Gratz, 1776- 1840. Nat. Ord. Solanacece. V. lycioides, the only described speeies, is an interesting, erect, branching, green-house shrub, with yellow flowers, pendulous from the tips of the branches. It was introduced from Chili in 1815, and is propagated by cut- tings. Vetch. The common name for the genus Vicia. Bastard or Bladder. The genus Phaca. Bitter. See Orobus. Bitter Black. Ervum Ervilia. Bush. Vicia sepium. Chickling. A common name for Lathyrus sativus. Common. Vicia sativa. Crown. A popular name for the genus Coro- nilla. Horse-shoe. Hippocrepis comosa. Indian. Ervum dispersmum. Kidney. Anthyllis vulneraria. Liquorice. A common name for Astragalus glycyphyllos. Milk. See Astragalus. Tufted. Vicia Cracca. Wood. Vicia sylvatica and V. Americana. Yellow-flowered. Vicia lutea. Vetchling. Meadow. Lathyrus Nissolia. Pea. Lathyrus piriformis. Yellow-flowered. Lathyrus Aphaca. Vibu'rnum. Arrow-wood, Laurustinus. From vieo, to tie, because of the pliability of some of the branches. Nat. Ord. Caprifoliacece. An extensive genus of ornamental shrubs, generally with terminal corymbs of white flowers. One of the best known species is VIC V. tinus, popularly known as Laurustinus, an evergreen bush or low shrub, with white flowers that are rose-colored in the bud. It is a desirable house plant (when it can be kept at a low temperature), as it is easy of cultiva- tion and keeps in flower nearly the whole win- ter. It thrives finely in the Southern States, planted in the open border. V. Lentago, a native species, common from Maine to Georgia, is a very handsome, low-growing tree, and well worth a place on the lawn. Its rich green foli- age and profusion of flowers in spring, and its numerous clusters of fruit and richly-colored foliage in autumn, enhance its value as an ornamental tree. This is commonly known as Sweet Viburnum or Sheep Berry. The Way- faring Tree or Hobble-bush ( V. lantanoides) is another interesting small tree ; and V. cotinir folium is a beautiful species from Nepal. The most interesting kind of Viburnum grown in small gardens is, however, the Gueldres, or Guelder Rose, or Snowball Tree, V. opulus. This is a deciduous shrub, found in Europe and Asia, as well as plentifully in this country northward, and southward along the Allegha- nies. The sterile variety of this species (var. sterilis, the Snowball Tree) may be found in every shrubbery, and, though so common, is still among the best of all shrubs. In a wild state its principal beauty lies in its bright red berries, which are edible, and are used as a sub- stitute for Cranberries, whence its common name, Cranberry Tree . V. plicatum, from North China, is a most beautiful hardy species, and of better habit than the preceding. It is a dwarf- spreading bush, with deeply wrinkled foliage. In summer every branch is wreathed with clusters of snow-white, sterile flowers, larger and whiter than those of the common Snow- ball Tree. It likes a warm, sheltered situa- tion, and is a shrub of the highest merit. Most of the Viburnums are hardy. They are generally propagated by layers, but cuttings will strike freely if kept moist, and in a shady situation. When transplanted, the evergreen species should be removed in October or November, as they have few fibrous roots, and are very apt to be killed by a continuance of dry weather if they are transplanted in spring. Vi'cia. Vetch. Tare. From vincio, to bind together ; referring to the clasping tendrils. Nat. Ord. Leguminosai. A very extensive genus of hardy climbing annuals and herbaceous climbing perennials. Some are common weeds, while others are grown for food for all kinds of cattle. V.faba (syn. Faba vulgaris), the English or Broad Windsor Bean, and more particularly its variety, V. f. equina, the Horse Bean, are largely grown in Europe for this purpose. They are mostly natives of Europe, a few spe- cies only being found in this country. The ornamental species are generally pretty climb- ing plants, with purplish flowers ; some of the kinds, however, have white, some pink, others blue, and others pale yellow flowers. All the kinds grow freely, though they thrive best when the soil is deep and sandy. They are propagated by seeds or division of the roots. Victo'ria. Named in honor of Queen Victoria of Great Britain. Nat. Ord. Nymphascea. A magnificent genus of plants, consisting of one species, as some think, or three species, 478 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS VIO according to others. Dr. Masters, in the "Treasury of Botany," speaking of these noble plants, says: "They are aquatic plants, with thick, fleshy root-stocks, marked with the scars of former leaves, and sending upward numerous long, cylindrical leaf-stalks, which are traversed in the interior by several air-canals, the larger of them arranged with much regularity, and are thickly covered on the outside by stout conical prickles. These prickles have spiral vessels and a small cavity in their interior, opening by a little pore at the top. From the under surface of the base of the leaf-stalks numerous adventitious roots are given out. The blade of the leaf is pel- tate, circular in outline, and when fully developed is from six to twelve feet in diam- eter, its margin uniformly turned upward to the extent of two or three inches, so that the leaves, when floating, have the appearance of so many large, shallow trays. The upper sur- face of the leaf is of a rich green color, and studded with little boss-like prominences. The lower surface is of a deep purple or violet hue, and traversed by several very prominent nerves, which radiate from the centre to the margin of the leaf, and are connected one with another by smaller nerves running trans- versely, so that the whole of the under sur- face is divided by compartments into a num- ber of irregularly quadrangular spaces or cells. The nerves themselves are permeated by air canals, and covered by strong spines. Thus the enormous leaves are well adapted to float on the water : and the extent of surface exposed is so great that a considerable weight can be supported without submerging them. Even a child of twelve years of age may be borne up, if the precaution be taken of first placing on the leaf a small piece of board, to prevent the feet from tearing and slipping through its surface. The flower-stalk has a similar outward appearance to that of the leaf, but is stouter, and its air-canals are arranged in a different manner. The flower bud before expansion is pear-shaped. The calyx is adherent below to the ovary, and is here cov- ered with prickles ; its limb, however, is des- titute of these appendages, and is divided into four ovate deciduous sepals, of a rich purple tint externally, and whitish internally. The petals are very numerous, in several rows, and (as in our common Water Lily) exhibit a gradual transition in their form to that of the stamens, so that it is somewhat difficult in all cases to decide where the one set of parts ceases and the others begin. The outer petals are rather larger than the sepals or lobes of the calyx, oblong, concave and white, the inner ones gradually becoming narrower, more pointed, and of a beautiful deep rose color. When fully expanded the outer petals are bent downward, while the central rose-colored ones, with the stamens, remain erect; and thus a noble appearance is presented, as of a central rose-colored crown supported by a series of pure white and most gracefully curved petals. The stamens are numerous, the outer ones somewhat lance-shaped, gracefully curved, of a fine rose-color, and having two linear anther cells on the inner face, near, but not quite extending to the top. Within these fertile stamens are other sterile ones, smaller in size, less highly colored, arching over the stigmas, to which they approximate also in VIC color and form. The ovary is adherent to the calyx tube, somewhat globular or top-shaped, its upper portion hollowed like a cup, and pre- senting in the centre a little rounded or con- ical knob. Along the upper margin of the cup are placed the stigmas, fleshy, pointed bodies, somewhat flattened at the sides and bent in the middle, so that their points project over the cup toward the centre. Each stigma has a prominent line along its upper surface, run- ning down to the central knob, which is thus the focus of a series of ridges, radiating toward the stigmas. The interior of the ovary contains numerous cavities corresponding to the stigmas, and each containing several ovules. The fruit, when ripe, is a sort of globular berry, thickly beset with formidable prickles. The seeds escape by the rotting of the outer portions of the fruit. These noble plants inhabit the tranquil rivers of South America, especially those which are tributary to the Amazon. They differ in the size of the seeds and other particulars; but when it is remembered how variable aquatic plants are, it is better, for the present at least, to con- sider them as forms of one rather than dis- tinct species. Generically, Victoria is most nearly allied to Euryale, but it is distinguished by the deciduous sepals, by the gradual tran- sition in the form of the petals to that of the stamens, by the more numerous cavities of the ovary, and other particulars. The leaf of Euryale is, however, an exact miniature copy of that of the Victoria, save that it is not turned up at the margin. " The earliest traveler who discovered this plant was Hsenke, in 1801. Bonpland subse- quently met with it ; but M. D'Orbigny was the first to send home specimens to Paris in 1828. They were, however, neglected or over- looked. In a work published some few years afterthis time, M. D'Orbigny mentions having discovered the plant in the Biver Parana in Guiana. It was known, he says, to the natives, by the name of Irupe, in allusion to the shape of the leaves, which resembles that of the broad dishes used in the country. The Span- iards call the plant Water Maize, as they col- lect the seeds and eat them roasted. In 1832 a German traveler found it in some tributaries of the Amazon ; but it was not until the late Sir Bobert Schomburgk discovered it in the Berbice Biver, in British Guiana, in the year 1837, that public attention was drawn to the magnificent plant. " Sir Bobert, in a letter to the Boyal Geographical Society, thus describes his first sight of the plant : " It was on the first of January, 1837, while contending with the difficulties that nature interposed in differ- ent ways to hinder our progress up the Biver Berbice, that we arrived at a part where the river expanded and formed acurrentless basin. Some object on the southern extremity of this basin attracted my attention, and I was unable to form an idea what it could be ; but, animat- ing the crew to increase the rate of their pad- dling, we soon came opposite the object which had raised my curiosity, and, behold, a vege- table wonder ! All calamities were forgotten. I was a botanist, and felt myself rewarded! There were gigantic leaves, five to six feet across, flat, with broad brim, light green above and vivid crimson beneath, floating on the water ; while in character with the wonder- ful foliage, I saw luxuriant flowers, each con- AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 479 VIC sisting of numerous petals, passing in alter- nate tints from pure white to rose and pink. The smooth water was covered with the flowers ; and as I rowed from one to the other I always found something new to admire." In 1845 Mr. Bridges, an English traveler, while riding along the River Yacouma, a tributary of the Mamore, came across a large colony of the Victoria, and succeeded in col- lecting a quantity of ripe seeds, which he took with him, soon thereafter, to England. Some of them he intrusted to Sir John Paxton at Chatsworth, who succeeded in producing the plant in November, 1849, and presented a flower to the Queen at Windsor Castle, where a brilliant assemblage met to admire the new and beautiful treasure. It was first successfully grown and flowered in this country about 1852, by Mr. Caleb Cope, of Philadelphia, who built a house and tank expressly for its culture. Since then it has been flowered in many places, and is still one of the chief attractions during the summer season in the principal botanic gardens of Europe. Mr. Sturtevant, of Bordentown, New Jersey, has for several years flowered It with great success in the open air by treat- ing it as a tender annual. The seeds are started in winter or early spring, in water kept at a uniform temperature of from eighty to ninety degrees. After germination they are potted and shifted on as they require it. Early in June they are planted out in a bed of very rich soil, in a tank fully exposed to the sun and which is artificially heated until hot weather sets in. It produces leaves six feet across, one plant covering a space thirty feet in diameter ; the flowers are from twelve to sixteen inches across, and the first night they open they are of a lovely white, with a perfume resembling that of Pineapples, often perceptible at a distance of some rods. The second night the flowers have changed to pink and have lost their perfume. It may be grown with every chance of success in open ponds in the Southern States. In 1886 Mr. Sturtevant flowered, for the first time, a crim- son-flowered Victoria regia, the chief differ- ence of which from the type is its more robust habit and that the flowers, which are also white the first day, change on the second day to a deep crimson. "Victorian Dogwood. Prostranthera lasianthos. Victorian Hazel. Pomaderris apetala. "Vieusseu'xia. Named in honor of M. Vieus- seux, a Swiss botanist. Nat. Ord. Iridacece. Small bulbs from the Cape of Good Hope, usually known as the Peacock Iris, on account of their very brilliant flowers, varying from white to crimson and purple. They are not hardy, but will grow well with partial protec- tion, like most of the Cape bulbs. They are rapidly increased by offsets. Introduced in 1776. Syn. Morcea. Vi'gna. In memory of Dominic Vigni, a com- mentator on Theophrastus, 1625. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. A genus of about thirty species of trailing and climbing plants, allied to Dolichos, the principal distinction being the yellow flowers and cylindrical seed-pods, while the Dolichos has purple and white flowers, and flattened pods. The genus is chiefly South American ; VIN one or two species being found in the South- ern States. Propagated by seeds. Viguie'ra. Named after Alexander Viguier, of Montpellier, who wrote a work on Poppies, 1814. Nat. Ord. Compositm. A genus of annual or perennial herbs, rarely shrubs, natives of the warmer parts of Amer- ica. They resemble the Helianthus, and only one or two are in cultivation. Harpalium rigidum is placed under this genus by some botanists. Vi'lfa. Rush Grass. Name unexplained. Nat. Ord. Graminacece. Under this genus Steudel describes one hundred and twenty-three species which have an extensive geographical range, from Mex- ico through the southern hemisphere to New Holland. Some of the annual species are pretty and are cultivated on that account. Villare'sia. Named after Matthias Villarez, a Spanish botanist, Nat. Ord. Olacacew. A genus of evergreen, climbing shrubs or trees, natives of tropical Australia, the Indian Archipelago, Brazil and Chili. V. mucronata, the only species yet introduced, forms a showy, evergreen, stove-house shrub, bear- ing white flowers in paniculate heads. It was introduced from Australia in 1879, and may be increased by cuttings or by seeds. Syn. Cit- ronella. Villa'rsia. Named in honor of D. Villars, a famous French botanist. Nat. Ord. Gentia- nacece. A small genus of aquatic plants and herba- ceous perennials. The flowers are in axillary clusters or terminal panicles, and mostly of a yellow color. V. nymphceoides, a native of Eng- land, and one of the finest species, is an aqua- tic of easy culture, and well adapted for the aquarium. Villose. "Villous. Shaggy; covered with soft, close, loose, long hair. Vilmori'nia. Named after P. L. Vilmorin, a famous French cultivator, who wrote on Legu- minous plants, 1825. Nat. Ord. Leguminosm. A small genus of erect, stove-house shrubs, natives of San Domingo. V. multiflora, the only introduced species, is sometimes found under the name of Clitoria multiflora. Vimina'ria. Australian Rush Broom. Victo- rian Swamp Oak. From vimen, a twig ; the appearance of the species is that of a bundle of twigs, being destitute of leaves. Nat. Ord. Leguminosce. V. denudata, the only described species, is a very interesting and curious plant, bearing small, orange-colored flowers in long terminal racemes. It is found generally in botanical collections, and is propagated by cuttings of the half-ripened shoots. Vimineous. Having long, flexible shoots or twigs ; like many Willows. Vi'nca. Periwinkle. Creeping Myrtle. Prob- ably from vinculum, a band ; in allusion to the suitableness of the shoots for making bands. Nat. Ord. Apocynacece. A well-known genus of hardy, herbaceous, evergreen, trailing plants, and green-house, low-growing, woody herbs. V. major and V. minor are respectively the Large-leaved Periwinkle and the Common Periwinkle, known in common cultivation as Myrtles. They are natives of Europe and have long been in cul- 480 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OP PLANTS VIN tivation. They are much used in cemeteries for covering graves, the deep green of the leaves contrasting with the delicate blue flow- ers. There are varieties with gold and silver- edged leaves, not quite hardy in the Northern States, but considerably grown for basket plants and conservatory decoration. V. rosea, the Madagascar Periwinkle or Old Maid, is a beautiful green-house plant with rose-colored flowers. This species and its varieties, one with pure white flowers, the other white with a crimson eye, grow from twenty to thirty inches high, and are completely covered with flowers the entire summer. They do quite as well planted in the open border as when grown in the green-house. They were intro- duced from the East Indies in 1758, and are, consequently, tender, requiring nearly as high a temperature as Coleus or Bouvardia. These plants may be grown from cuttings or from seed, the latter being preferable. The seed should be sown in the hot-house or hot- bed about the first of January, in an average temperature of not less than 70°, and grown on in the same manner, and planted in the flower-garden at the same time as other tender-bedding plants. Planted eighteen inches apart each way, they completely cover the ground. Syn. Catharanthus. Vinceto'xicum. From vincere, to conquer, and toxicum, poison ; in allusion to supposed anti- dotal powers. Nat. Ord. Asclepiadaceaz. A genus of erect or twining perennial herbs or sub-shrubs, natives of temperate and warm regions, but rare in the tropics. The culti- vated varieties are all hardy, and are best known as Cynanchum. Vine. Any trailing or climbing stem. Alleghany. See Adlumia cirrhosa. Australian. Vitis hypoglauca and V. acetosa. Balloon. See Cardiospermum. Condor. Gonobolus Cundwrango. Currant. Vitis vinifera var. Corinthiaca. Cypress. See Quamoclit vulgaris. Elephant's. Cissus latifolia. Fragrant Wild. Vitis riparia. Glory. The genus Clianthus. Golden. Stigmaphyllon ciliatum. Granadilla. Passiflora quadrangularis. Grape. The varieties of Vitis vinifera, V. Lab- rusca, V. vulpina, etc. Grape-flower. The genus Wistaria. Hedge. Clematis Vitalba and C. Virginiana. Kangaroo, or Kankuru. Cissus Antartica. Madeira. Boussingaultia Basseloides. Maple. Menispermum Canadense. Matrimony. Lycium vulgare. Milk. A name sometimes used for Periploca grcBca. Of Sodom. Supposed to be the Colocynth, Citrullus Colocynthus. Pepper. Ampelopsis bipinnata. Pipe. Aristolochia Sipho. Poison. Rhus toxicodendron. Potato. A common name for Ipomozapandurata . Silk. Periploca grmca. Silver. A popular name for Scindapsus argy- rwa. Silver of the West Indies. Pothos argyrcza. Smilax. See Myrsiphyllum. Squaw. Mitchella repens. Strainer. Luffa acutangula. Variegated. Vitis ( Cissus) heterophilla variegata. Wild- wood. Ampelopsis quinquefolia. VIO Vinealis. Growing wild in vineyards. Vinegar Tree. Rhus tiphyna and Rhus glabra. Viola'ceee. A natural order consisting of herbs and shrubs, usually with alternate and simple leaves, furnished with stipules and axillary flowers, either solitary or in cymes, racemes or panicles. The flowers are often large and showy, and the capsule of the greater num- ber of genera opens in three very elastic valves. There are between two and three hundred species known, and over twenty gen- era dispersed over nearly all parts of the globe. Many of the species are well known in cultivation. Violet. See Viola. Adder's. Goodyera pubescens. Bird's-foot. Viola pedata. Bog. The genus Pinguicula. Cape. Ionidium Capense. Corn. Specularia hybrida. Dame's. Hesperis matronalis. Dog's-Tooth. Erythronium Dens-canis. Dog's-Tooth. American. Erythronium AmerU canum. False. Dalibarda repens. Fringed. The genus Thysanotus. Green. See Solea. Mercury's. An old name for Campanula Me- dium. Neapolitan. Viola odorata var. pallida plena. New Holland. Erpetion reniforme. Pyrenean. Viola cornuta. Rouen. Viola Rothomagensis. Russian. Viola suavis. Siberian. Viola uniflora. Spurless. The genus Erpetion. Spurred. Viola calcarata. Tooth. Dentaria bulbifera. Water. Hottonia palustris and H. inflata. Violet Wood or Myall Wood, of Australia. Acacia homalophylla. Of Brazil. Supposed to be a species of Trip- tolomoza. Of Guiana. Andira violacea. Vio'la. Violet, Heart's-ease, Pansy. The old Latin name used by Virgil, etc., similar to the Greek Ion. Nat. Ord. ViolacexB. This genus consists of more than one hun- dred and fifty species, indigenous in North America, Europe, Asia, China and Japan. Some of the species occupy a prominent posi- tion in the flower garden and the commercial green-house. The genus includes V. odorata, the well-known hardy English Violet, and its many varieties, so common in cultivation. This species, by common consent called Eng- lish Violet, is indigenous throughout Europe, parts of Asia, China and Japan. It is unques- tionably the Violet of the ancients, as it is correctly described by Dioscorides, who rec- ommends it for its medicinal virtues, as well as for its fragrance and beauty. Of this species there are many varieties, and of these some are white, some blue, some purple, light and dark, and both single and double. The most interesting and the most generally cultivated are the Neapolitan and Russian Violets, and of each of these there are varieties with distinctive names. The Russian Violets are credited to the species V. suavis by some writers ; Loudon, however, says they are varieties of V. odorata. Of the double kinds the Neapolitan (light blue), and Maria Louise AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 481 VIO (dark blue), are the varieties most gen- erally cultivated. Swanley White, and sev- eral other double white varieties, are also cultivated, and are prized more for their anomaly than for their intrinsic beauty. Mad. Millet, a double red or carmine-colored va- riety, is also grown to some extent, on account of its novel and unexpected color. Of the single sorts the Russian, Schonbrunn, and the Czar are the best. They are grown in frames and in green-houses with and without artificial heat. Formerly they were more grown in cold frames than in green-houses, but many of the growers have abandoned frames, and grow them in small houses, giving only sufficient heat to protect the plants from frost. Some grow them in pots, while others plant them out on the bench ; each way has its earnest advocates, and either way will give good flowers, largely in proportion to the care given ; and there is no plant grown that requires , more, or will usually better repay that which is given. The essential in Violet culture is a strong calcareous soil, one that will retain moisture without becoming sod- dened ; a low temperature (not to exceed 40° at night, or 60° during the day, ventilating whenever practicable) without bottom heat, the water applied without wetting the foliage, and the plants kept clean from decayed leaves and runners. With these attentions, failures in Violet culture will be rare, without them success will be equally rare. Of late years, in all sections of the country, the Violet has been subject to a disease, a spotting and yel- lowing of the leaves, which has been com- pletely destructive in a great majority of cases. The cause of this I believe to be from the same source as that affecting the Rose, Car- nation, and many other kinds of plants used for forcing in winter, namely, that the con- tinued high temperature necessary to produce flowers is contrary to what the nature of these plants demands — a season of rest in winter; this being in part denied them, the plants are weakened in vitality and consequently become more or less a prey to disease. To avert that as much as possible, cuttings should be taken from the runners of the Violets in October, rooted and kept in cold frames over winter, which gives them the necessary season of rest, and planted out at one foot apart each way as soon as the ground is dry enough to work in spring ; by midsummer they will have started to grow freely, from that time until the middle of September be careful that all runners are pinched off, so that the whole force of the root can be used to form the crowns for flowering, exactly as Strawberry runners are pinched off to produce fruit. The plants thus prepared for flowering about the end of September are dug up with balls and potted in seven or eight-inch pots, or planted in five or six inches of soil in the benches of the green-house at a foot apart. Shade and water for a few days until they have made young roots, after which give all the ventila- tion possible until November. The numerous beautiful varieties of "bedding Violets" so much used and admired in Britain, where they flower profusely all summer, originated in a cross between Viola cornuta, a native of Switzerland and the Pyrenees, and V. pyroloe- flora (lutea), introduced from Patagonia in 1851. They are admirable plants for spring bedding, VIS but, unfortunately, will not stand our hot, dry summers. American travelers in Europe import tens of thousands of these annually, only to be disappointed in finding that they are entirely unsuited to our hot, dry atmosphere. There are several of our native species worthy of cultivation in the border, particularly where there is considerable shade ; the best of these is Viola pedata, or Bird's-foot Violet, a species that abounds in many parts of the country, but nowhere more plentifully than what is termed the Plains of Long Island, where, in early spring may be seen acres of ground com- pletely covered with these mauve-colored flow- ers, sparingly mixed with its varieties, with pure white, and light blue with purple striped flowers. This species improves by cultivation, and can be removed from its native home without the slightest danger of failure. An important feature is that it will grow any- where, in sun or shade, preferring a light sandy soil. In a favorable situation the flowers will De an inch across, and produced in such abundance as to completely cover the bed. Where they can be used as a border plant, they are very effective. The species of the greatest importance as a florist's or as a gar- den flower is V. tricolor (the Pansy or Heart' s- ease, which see). All of the species are interesting, but are too numerous to be spe- cially noticed. Viper Gourd. A name given to Trichosanthes anguina. Viper's Bugloss. See Echium. Viper's Grass. See Scorzonera. Virens. Green. Virgatus. Twiggy; producing many weak branches, slender, straight and erect. Virgi'lia. Lamarck dedicated this genus to the poet Virgil, whose "Georgics" contain many things interesting to botanists. Nat. Ord. Legwminosoz. V. capensis, the only species introduced, is a green-house shrub with rosy-purple flowers, introduced from South Africa in 1767. It is seldom found in cultivation. The beautiful, hardy tree known in cultivation as V. lutea or Yellow- wood is now transferred to Cladrastis as C. tinctoria, which see. Virginian Cowslip or Lungwort. The com- mon name of Mertensia Virginica, sometimes called Pulmonaria Virginica, a rather pretty, herbaceous plant, occasionally grown in the ornamental border. See Mertensia. Virginian Creeper. See Ampelopsis quinque- folia. Virginian Date-Palm. Diospyros Virginiana. Virginian Poke. Phytolacca decandra. Virginian Silk. Periploca grceca. Virginian Snakeroot. Aristolochia serpentaria. Virginian Spiderwort. Tradescantia Virginica. Virginian Stock. See Malcolmia. Virgin's Bower. See Clematis Virginiana. Virgin Tree. Sassafras Parthenoxylon. Viridis. Green. Visca'ria. Rock Lychnis. From viscus, bird- lime ; in allusion to the glutinous stems of the species. Nat. Ord. Caryophyllacew. These are handsome, hardy annuals, par- ticularly V. oculata, whose pretty pink and 482 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS VIS purple flowers are very pleasing. They make the best appearance when sown in masses, which may be done in April and May, to afford a display through the whole of the sum- mer months. Many of the plants of this genus are now included in Lychnis, which see. Viscid, Viscous. Clammy ; sticky from a tena- cious coating or secretion. Vi'scum. Mistletoe. From viscus, bird-lime; on account of the sticky nature of the ber- ries. Nat. Ord. Loranthacece. We copy from Mrs. Loudon's "Gardening for Ladies " a description of V. album ; " This curious parasite can hardly be called orna- mental, though it may be sometimes intro- duced with effect to give an air of antiquity to newly-planted pleasure-grounds. It grows best on old cankered Apple Trees, but it may be made to take root on even a young tree, by pressing a berry on a crack in the bark, and then tying oiled paper over it. As, how- ever, the male and female flowers of the Mistletoe are on separate plants, the berries are not always fertile. It is an error to suppose that the Mistletoe grows generally on the Oak, as it is extremely rare on that tree in England. ' Dr. Bull, in a paper in the "Journal of Botany" (ii. 73), mentions only seven authentic instances of the growth of the Mistletoe on the Oak in this country' — Dr. Masters. It is found most commonly on the Apple and next on the Hawthorn ; it is also found on the Lime, the Sycamore, the Willow, the Poplar and the Ash, occasionally on the Cherry and sometimes, though rarely, on Pines and Firs. When the seeds begin to grow, they send out first one or two roots, which ascend for a short time and then turn back to the bark, on which they fix them- selves, like the sucker of an insect. The other end afterward detaches itself from the tree and becomes leaves and shoots. The roots of the Mistletoe descend between the bark and the young wood, and no intimate union takes place between the old wood of the parasite and its supporter. The wood of the Mistletoe is of a very fine pale yellowish tinge, and it is as hard and of as fine a grain as box, which it greatly resembles, while that of the thorn is dark brown." The never- lessening demand for the Mistletoe for use at the Christmas Holidays in England has of late years induced nurserymen to begin its cultivation on the Apple, which is now done to an extent that keeps the "boughs" at a reasonable rate. The English steamers often bring over a supply for Christmas in New York, but we have never seen it arrive in per- fection, the berries, the chief attraction of the plant, having mostly dropped off. The American Mistletoe, or False Mistletoe, is Phoradendron flavescens, common in New Jer- sey, southward and westward, where it has in many instances proved destructive to the forest trees upon which it fastens itself. Though not so ornamental as the English Mistletoe, it is now used in large quantities . during the holidays as a substitute for it. See Phoradendron, page 319. Vi'smia. Wax-Tree. Named in honor of M. de Visme, a merchant of Lisbon. Nat. Ord. Hypericacece. VIT A genus of trees or shrubs, found princi- pally in tropical America, only four of the species being found in western tropical Africa. They have four-sided branches, opposite, often glandular, dotted, entire leaves, and terminal panicles, or cymes of yellow or greenish flow- ers. V. Guianensis, a species found in Guiana, Brazil, Surinam and Mexico, furnishes the rosin known as American Gamboge or Gutta- Gum. Vi'snea. Named after a Lisbon merchant named Visne, who was interested in botany. Nat. Ord. TernstromiacecB. V. Mocanera, the only recognized species (so named by LinnsBus on account of the fruit being supposed by some authors to have been the Mocan, which was made into a kind of syrup and largely employed by the aboriginal inhabitants of the Canary Islands), is a green- house shrub with the habit and inflorescence of Eurya. It was introduced to cultivation in 1815, and is propagated by cuttings. Vita'ceae. A small natural order, nearly allied to RhamnacecE, differing slightly in their flow- ers, but more in their habits. With the ex- ception of the small genus Leea, they are tall climbers, remarkable for the anomalous structure of their wood. Besides the great genus Vitis, this order includes Cissus, Ampe- lopsis, Pterisanthes and Leea. Vitellinus. Dull yellow, just turning to red; the color of the yolk of an egg. Vi'tex. From vieo, to bind ; in allusion to the flexible branches. Nat. Ord. Verbenacece. A genus of about sixty species of woody plants, mostly tropical, a few reaching as far north as the Mediterranean. The plants of this genus are very aromatic, and the leaves and bark of some of the species are used medicinally in India. V. Agnus-castus, Chaste- tree, with long, petiolate, divided leaves and pale lilac flowers, is perhaps the best known species, having been in cultivation since 1670. It is hardy in the Southern States. V. tri- foliate/,, the Indian Wild Pepper, introduced from India in 1739, is also in cultivation. They are easily increased by cuttings. Vi'tis. Vine. From the Celtic gwid, pro- nounced vid ; signifying the best of trees. Wine is derived from the Celtic word gwin. Nat. Ord. VitaceoR. A large genus comprising over two hundred species of climbing plants, of which the well- known Grape-vine is the most important rep- resentative. It has a wide geographical range, but is principally found in the north- ern hemisphere, the majority of its species being natives of tropical and temperate Asia to as far north as Japan and North America. ' ' The Grape-vine, V. vinifera, is a native of the southern shores of the Caspian Sea and Armenia. Associated with the Fig, it follows the shores of the Black Sea as far as the Crimea. Alphonse de Candolle states that it grows spontaneously throughout the lower region of the Caucasus; in the north, but more especially in the southern parts of that chain; in Armenia, and on the southern shores of the Caspian Sea, and he adds: ' There can be no doubt from historical tes- timony and that of botanists that this was the original country of the Vine. But no spe- cies of Vitis is wild in Europe.' "—Treasury of Botany. AND GENEKAL HORTICULTURE. 483 VIT Although the hardy varieties of Grapes do well in nearly all parts of the country, there are few sections, with the exception of Cali- fornia, where the European or foreign Vine does well in the open air. For this reason, the only certain method of obtaining these fine varieties in perfection is by the use of the Cold Grapery. There is no addition to a country home from which such a large amount of satisfaction can be obtained at so small an outlay as from a Grapery for grow- ing the different varieties of foreign Grapes. As this fruit can be obtained at a trifling original outlay, and with but little attention in the cultivation afterward, we will briefly describe the methods in use here, which are much simpler than those in Europe, from our having brighter sunshine during the summer months. As to the size and construction of the Vinery, there are now architects in every large city competent to give plans. For early forcing, or perhaps in all Graperies where artificial heat is used, the "lean to," as it is called, is preferable facing south or southeast, and wherever there is building, wall or perpendicular rock, this style can be constructed very cheaply ; the two-third span green-house (now considered the best model for rose-forcing) is more sightly and will answer equally well ; while for Cold Graperies, or those not heated artificially, the curvilinear or span-roofed is the best. The "lean to" or "two-third span" may be eighteen or twenty feet wide and of any desired length, giving a length of rafter of from twenty to twenty-four feet. The general width for a " cux-vilinear " house is twenty-five feet, giv- ing about fifteen feet of a rafter on each side. The formation of the border in which the Vines are to be planted is a matter of the first importance ; for if that has been improperly made, all else, no matter how well done, will fail to accomplish good results. The outside border for the Grapery (and for Cold Graperies that is all that is required) need not be more than one and a half feet in depth ; and the width, to begin with, need not be more than ten feet, though twenty feet are none too much for the necessities of the roots when the Vines have attained two or three years' growth, so that it is just as well, when time will permit, to make the border of its full width at once. In forming the border the natural ground should be excavated to the required depth of eighteen inches, the bottom having a fall of at least half an inch to the foot from the front wall of the Grapery to the extremity of the border, where a drain of suf- ficient capacity must be made to rapidly carry off the water. In our own practice we prefer to cover the bottom over with an inch or two of cement, to prevent the roots penetrating into the cold subsoil ; though, if the subsoil is of sand or gravel, there is no particular necessity for this. An excellent compost for the formation of the Vine border is made by using say nine parts of sod taken from the surface of any good pasture land ; if the soil be heavy, however, it should be liberally mixed with lime rubbish, brick-bats, or any material of that nature, so that it does not become too heavy and sodden. To nine parts of such compost one-tenth part of broken bones should be thoroughly mixed through it. When filling the excavation, at VIT least five inches should be allowed for settling ; so that, if the excavation is eighteen inches deep, the compost should be filled in to a depth of twenty-two or twenty-three inches. Amateurs planting Graperies . commonly desire to start with Vines that are two or three years' old, but such as have had much experi- ence with stocking new Graperies, know that a one-year-old Vine that is well ripened, bet- ter answers the purpose than those of greater age ; in fact, it is a question whether a Vine started from an eye in February or March, and planted in June, will not by September make as fine a cane as one of any greater age. As such Vines are not veiy easily transport- able or even procurable at all by beginners, the best thing they can do is to procure well- grown one-year-old Vines and plant them in spring, but not too early— say May in this latitude, or just when their buds are begin- ning to start if kept, as they should have been, in a cool place. It is best to shake the soil from the ball of the young Vines that have been grown in pots, although the disentangle- ment or spreading of the roots, to which so much importance is by some attached, is of no consequence. In planting, the roots are set outside, drawing the tops through the apertures formed in the wall, a little higher than the border (if there is one) inside the house. Only a single shoot is allowed to grow, and this is cut back in November or December to the bottom of the rafter, or about three or four feet from the ground. If desirable, a bunch or two may be taken from each of the Vines the second year, although it will some- what weaken them to do so. It is therefore preferable to repeat the same operation of growing one shoot only again to the top of the rafter. This shoot may now be cut back to say eight feet from the ground, and will this year (the third after planting) give a good crop, which is taken from the lateral or side shoots, still allowing the main or leading shoot, as before, to get to the top of the rafter ; for the Vine is not strong enough yet to bear fruit the whole length of the cane. The fourth year after planting it may be cut back to within five or six feet of the top, and the fifth year will be able to bear a full crop the entire length of the rafter, which, in a house of twenty-five feet, span-roofed, will be about sixteen feet long, or in a lean-to of twenty feet wide, about twenty-five feet. The variety best fitted for the Cold Grapery is the Black Hamburg. In a house requiring twenty Vines we should advise twelve Black Ham- burg, and the balance selected from the fol- lowing list of old and established kinds : Royal Muscadine, Buckland's Sweet-Water, White Frontignan, Trentham Black and Charlesworth Tokay. Protecting the Vines in Cold Graperies is of great benefit. About the simplest way to do so is to run a board along eighteen inches or so from the front wall. After pruning the Vines (which may be done at any time after they drop their leaves), they are to be taken down from the wires and laid down between this boarding and the front wall, and the space entirely filled up with soil or sand. It is necessary, though, to watch that ground mice do not get to the Vines, as they might destroy them by eating the 484 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS VIT bark. "We have found that Vines so cov- ered up keep admirably, and that the plan is less liable to draw vermin than when they are covered with straw or hay. They are usually covered up about the middle of December, and are not uncovered or otherwise disturbed until the first of May, when they are lifted up and tied to the wires, which are one-sixteenth galvanized iron, and run across the rafters fif- teen inches apart and fifteen inches from the glass. The training followed is what is called the "spur" system, which is simply to allow one cane or shoot to each Vine (planted three or four feet apart) and pruning the side-shoots or " bearing- wood " annually back to one eye. In the summer treatment of the Cold Grapery the principle must never be lost sight of that to keep the Vines in perfect health, a tempera- ture of not less than 65° at night, with 15° or 20° higher during the day, is always necessary. Any rapid variation downward is certain to result in mildew. The floor of the Grapery should be kept sprinkled with water at all times, unless in damp weather, from the time the buds start until the fruit begins to ripen, except during the period the Vines are in flower, when it should be dispensed with until the fruit is set. In dry weather, copious watering is necessary for the border outside. The summer pruning of the Grapery consists simply in cutting off the laterals, or side- shoots which start from where the leaf joins the stem, to one leaf. In winter, three or four inches of well-rotted stable manure is spread over the border, and over that six inches of leaves or litter; this is raked off in spring, and the manure forked in, the object being to feed the roots from the top of the border. We are so much impressed with the advantage of covering up the Vines, both tops and roots, that we practice it even with the hardy varie- ties out of doors, with the very best results, having found, by actual experiment, that when covered up they are less subject to mildew. All plants of a half-hardy character may be kept in the Cold Grapery, such as Roses, Pome- granates, Oranges, Crape Myrtles, Pampas Grass, Tritomas, Carnations, etc., care being taken that the pots or tubs in which they are planted are plunged in leaves, tan, or some such substance, so that the roots do not freeze. The Cold Grapery makes an excellent poultry-house in winter, only, if put to that use, care must be taken that the buried Vines are secure against the scratching of the hens. In the construction of the Grapery for forc- ing by artificial heat, the best plan is the ' 'lean- to " style, previously described. * This should face the south, or southeast, so that it will get all the sunlight possible in the win- ter and spring months, for forcing is often begun in December and January, so as to have the fruit ripe in April and May. A skillful grower will usually ripen his crops in four months or a little more, but not all kinds alike, as some naturally ripen earlier than others with precisely the same treatment. In forcing Grapes, it is essential to have the bor- der outside covered up with leaves or manure of sufficient depth to prevent the frost getting to the roots ; as, if heat is applied inside to the Vines while the roots are frozen, it will injure them seriously. When Vines are started to force very early, say January 1st, sufficient covering of manure and leaves should be VIT placed on the border to raise the temperature of the soil to at least 60°, if the best results are to be obtained. If started five or six weeks later, so much covering would not be necessary. No matter at what season the Grapery is started, the temperature to begin with, say for the first three weeks, should not exceed fifty degrees at night, with the usual day temperature of 10° to 15° higher, increas- ing gradually until the buds begin to be devel- oped, which will be from five to six weeks, to a temperature of 65° at night, with 15° higher in the daytime. In another four or five weeks the fruit will be set, when the temperature may run from 70° to 75° at night, with the 10° to 15° higher during the day. When the berries are about the size of small peas, it is indispensable to thin nearly half of them out with the Grape scissors, else they will not attain half their size, and the bunches will be so compact that it will be impossible to detach the berries without mashing them. Inex- perienced Grape-growers almost invariably err in leaving the berries too thick on the bunch, and often, also, too many bunches on the Vines, which not only results in the fruit being inferior in quality, but no more weight even is obtained. In regard to kinds to plant, we should here, as in the Cold Grapery, choose a large proportion of the Black Hamburgh, next the Muscat of Alexandria, Maddresfield Court Muscat, and then Trentham Black, Mus- cat Hamburg, Golden Champion, Gros Colman, Barbarossa and Lady Downes' for late, Chas- selas de Fountainbleau for early, Grizzly Fron- tignan, Alicante, and similar good kinds. For market, Black Hamburgh and Muscat of Alex- andria are found to be the most profitable. If proper attention has been given in forcing the Grapery to the right degrees of tempera- ture and moisture, there should be no mildew ; but as a preventive in case of accidents, it is safest, as soon as firing begins, to paint the hot-water pipes with a mixture of lime, or lin- seed oil and sulphur. The pipes, when heated, evaporate the sulphur fumes, which are cer- tain to destroy the germs of mildew, and also Bed Spider, which sometimes infests vineries kept at a high temperature. (See Insects.) Accidents often occur by leaving the water in the pipes in the Graperies at the season they are resting and exposed to frost, which is often severe enough to freeze the water, which, expanding, bursts the pipes. It is always safest not to wait until fall to empty them, but to do so as soon as firing is stopped in the spring and summer. It is often customary, after pruning the Vines, to peel the loose bark from the canes and wash them with a mixture of sulphur and lime, to destroy insects ; but there is no necessity for this, in our opinion, if the practice of burying up the stems in the soil is resorted to, as described in our instruc- tions for the Cold Grapery. We have resorted to this practice for many years, and though we have never either peeled off the rough bark or washed them, we have never been troubled with insects of any kind. Vitis labrusca and V. vulpina, the wild Grapes of our own country, are quite dis- tinct species from the wine Grape of Europe, being usually much stronger in their growth with larger and more leathery foliage, and, in their native state, with a peculiar foxy odor or flavor and more or less hardness of pulp. TITIS (NIAGARA GRAPE). V1TIS (BRIGHTON GRAPE). VITIS (MOORE'S EARLY GRAPE). VITIS (WYOMING RED GRAPE). 48$ AND GENEKAL HORTICULTUKE. 485 VIT These traits are rapidly disappearing under cultivation, and now the better varieties of the native Grapes are among the most valu- able of our fruits, and the vineyard culture of the Grape is fast assuming a chief place among the industrial interests of the country, not alone for food, but for wine. Just now the subject of wine has a peculiar signifi- cance for the American vineyardist. The Phylloxera having destroyed in some cases, and materially injured in others, some of the most noted vineyards in Europe, espe- cially in France, real wine has become rare, except in some old cellars, where it has been stored for years. To keep up the supply resort has been had to fictitious wines of all descriptions, and adulterations of a very hurtful nature have been practiced to such an extent that the French government has lately interfered to prevent it as far as possi- ble. If the American vineyardist shall now step forward and supply the home market with pure, high class wines, he will not only be able to retain it, but also find a foreign market for all not wanted at home. The Grape should be regarded as an article of food rather than a luxury, and it is becom- ing more and more regarded in that light; and there need be no fear, with our rapidly increasing population, that the demand will not always be in advance of the supply. That many portions of the country are suited to the successful culture of the Grape is abund- antly shown by the vineyards already estab- lished ; in fact, there are but few States in the Union where some one variety of the Grape may not be profitably grown, and even unfa- vorable localities may often be made to yield a supply for the family, by affording the vines a little protection above ground and proper drainage beneath. The following general directions may be of service to many : For more detailed instruc- tions we would refer to Downing's Fruits and Fruit Trees of America, or to the excellent works of Fuller or Hussman on this subject. Grapes can be grown in any soil provided it is well drained and in good condition. For a vineyard a strong, loamy or gravelly soil is preferable, and a warm, sunny, open exposure is indispensable. One or two years' old Vines are the most satisfactory and may be planted in rows six to eight feet apart and four to eight feet in the row according to the habit of the Vine, whether it is a vigorous grower like the Concord, or a short-jointed grower like the Delaware. When planted they should be cut back, leaving only two or three eyes or buds. For vineyard culture the long, re- newal system is most practiced ; by it the Vine the first year is permitted to make but one leading shoot, all the other buds or eyes i being rubbed off leaving only the strongest, which should be trained perpendicularly to a ; stake the first year. The second year this cane is cut down again to two eyes, and these are grown to two long canes. The third year i one of these canes is cut down to two buds i and the other to four buds, the former being permitted to make two good long, stout, canes and the latter to produce about four or six clusters of fruit, all the ground shoots being rubbed away. These two canes are allowed to grow as long as they will and are trained upright, the other on which the fruit VIT is grown is trained at an angle of about forty- five degrees, and when it has set its fruit is stopped back by pinching three or four leaves beyond the fruit. The following season or fourth year, the fruiting cane of this year is cut down to two buds and the two canes of this year's growth are cut to four or more buds for fruit bearing and trained at an angle of forty-five degrees each way, the two buds on the bearing cane of last year make canes for the succeeding year's bearing. In the garden culture of the Grape it is just as necessary to secure a perfectly open, sunny exposure, for although it will, make vigorous growths in the shade of trees or buildings, yet the crop will be poor and flavorless and the Vines likely to fall a prey to mildew. The system of pruning and training pursued in the garden is the upright or spur method. The first season's growth is cut back to two buds and the following season the two shoots pro- duced are brought down to a horizontal position and fastened each way to the lower horizontal rail of the trellis, being shortened at the distance of three or four feet from the root. These will form the base from which to start the upright shoots, which form the per- manent fruiting canes, and should be from fifteen to eighteen inches apart. The follow- ing season a crop of lateral shoots will be produced from the upright leaders which may be allowed to bear from one to three bunches upon each. Afterwards it is only necessary at the pruning season to cut back these lateral shoots or fruit-spurs an inch or so long and a new fruit-producing lateral will annually supply its place, to be again cut out at the winter's pruning. Though this system gives the largest crops and is the most generally practiced, it is nevertheless certain, that the renewal system always yields the largest and finest fruit. If the vine is fully exposed to the sun it will require very little summer pruning ; in fact none, except stopping the young shoots three joints beyond the furthest bunch of Grapes at midsummer, for the leaves being intended by Nature to elaborate the sap the more we can retain of them, the larger and higher-flavored will be the fruit; careful ex- periments having proved that there is no more successful mode of impoverishing the crop of fruit than that of pulling off the leaves. Although Grape-vines are hardy in nearly all sections, yet in any locality where the thermometer falls to zero it is beneficial to lay them down close to the ground, and cover them up with rough litter before the approach of severe weather in winter, allowing it to remain on in spring until the buds begin to swell, when the Vines are uncovered and tied up to the trellis or stake. If covered in this way they should be pruned before being laid down. Pruning may be done at any time from November to March. It is a common belief that Grape-vines should be pruned only at certain seasons. The weather must not be too cold, otherwise it is supposed they may be injured if then pruned. Again, they must not be pruned late in the spring, else the sap oozing from the cuts may bleed them to death. Let me say that both these notions are utter nonsense. The pruning of any tree or vine in the coldest weather cannot possibly injure it, and the "bleeding" or running of 486 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS VIT the sap after any ordinary pruning can no more hurt the Vine than the blood flowing from a pin scratch would weaken a healthy man. This method of covering up the Grape- vine is not commonly practiced, but we are satisfied that in exposed positions, it is well worth the trouble. I have practiced it with Vines now over twenty years old, embracing some twenty varieties. My soil is a stiff clay, very unsuitable for the Grape ; yet these Vines have kept clear of mildew when my neighbor's Vines, a few hundred yards off, have been seriously injured by it. I have long believed that intense cold is hurtful to even such plants as we call hardy, but the wonderful vigor of these old Vines seems good evidence of the advantage of our method of treatment. The litter used in covering (which has become well rotted by spring) is spread over the border, acting both as a sum- mer mulch and fertilizer. Diseases. The Mildew and Black Rot are diseases which most affect the success of grape culture in this country. For the for- mer sulphur is the best remedy, applied while the leaves are wet. On a large scale it is ap- plied by a bellows made for the purpose. Experiments made during the past few years with preparations of copper-sulphate for the prevention of Mildew have seemed to indicate that these mixtures were also antidotes for Black Rot. The preparation considered the best is what is known as the Bordeaux mixt- ure. (See Insecticides.) This mixture should be sprayed on the vines at intervals of ten days to two weeks during the summer. This can be done with any of the force-pumps with a nozzle that delivers the liquid in the form of mist. Many enclose the best clusters of all their grapes in paper bags to preserve them from the spores of the Black Rot, and state that it is very efficacious. These spores are invisible to the naked eye, but they float about in the air, and lodging on the skin of the grape, are ready to germinate under fa- vorable conditions of moisture and tempera- ture. To prevent their coming in contact with the grapes, the clusters are enclosed in paper bags, the mouth reaching over the cane, folded and secured with a pin. This method also secures the fruit from the attacks of bees, wasps, etc., which are often very de- structive. Varieties. There are so many really good varieties now in cultivation, many of them succeeding better in some localities than in others, that it is difficult to make a selection of a few of the best sorts. For hardiness, delicious flavor and size of fruit we consider the following the best in their respective col- ors. (For description see nursery catalogues.) White. Niagara, Moore's Diamond, Sa- lem, Martha and Duchess. Red. — Brighton, Delaware, Agawam (Rodgers' No. 15) and Wyoming Red. Black. — Worden, Moore's Early, Concord, Merrimac and Wilder (Rod- gers' No. 9). The varieties named in this list have been selected with a view to have fruit in succes- sion from August to October, and, besides, to have a selection of such colors as will be most desirable when dished on the table, which, in the great variety of shades which we now have in this delicious fruit, makes a most beautiful ornament. VOL Propagation of the Grape is done by nur- serymen in green-houses similar to that used for propagating florists' plants; but most of the varieties can be grown with fair success by cuttings in the open air. The cuttings (made from the young, well-ripened shoots of the previous year's growth) may be made with two or three buds or eyes, planted in rows, say one foot apart and three inches be- tween the cuttings, and set so that the top eye or bud only is above ground. The situa- tion where the cuttings are placed should be well exposed to the sun, the soil rich and deep, and of sandy or light character. Care must be taken that the cutting is well firmed in the soil; and if sawdust or some other non-conducting material is sifted over them (covering all up but the buds), success will be greater, as this will prevent the sun from baking and drying up the soil. The cuttings may be made from the prunings at any time during winter, and kept in a damp cellar or buried outside in sand until planted in the cutting-bed in the spring. Vitta. Vittae. The oil tubes of the fruit of the Umbelliferce. Vitta'ria. From vitta, a riband; alluding to* the narrow fronds. A genus of tropical Ferns having grass-like subcoriaceous fronds with free veins. They are very interesting plants, though not of much significance except in a. botanical collection. Vittate. Striped length-wise. Vivia'na. Named in honor of Domenico Viviana, a professor and botanist of Genoa. Nat. Ord. Geraniacece. A genus of undershrubs and herbs, natives of South America. They have opposite ovate leaves, covered with white down on the under surface, and bearing white, pink or purple flowers in terminal panicles. They are pretty green-house plants but are not often seen in cultivation. Viviparous. Bearing young plants in the place of flowers or seeds. Vochy'sia. Vochy is the Guiana name of V. Guianensis; sometimes spelled Vochisia. Nat. Ord. Vochysiacece. A genus of generally tall trees, natives of Brazil, Guiana, Eastern Peru and New Gren- ada, the flowers of which are arranged in highly ornamental panicles, and are generally of a yellow or bright orange color. When in, bloom they present a magnificent spectacle, accompanied by a penetrating, often violet- like odor. V. Guianensis and V. tornentosa are- in cultivation and are increased by cuttings, of the ripened wood. Vochy sia'ceee. (Vochyacece.) A small natural! order of trees or climbing shrubs, often of great beauty, with opposite, entire leaves, and yellow, white, pink or purple flowers (usually very showy) in terminal racemes or panicles. Little is known of the properties of these trees, beyond the hardness of the timber which some of them supply, and the position of the order in the Natural system is as yet unsettled. Volkame'ria. Named for J. G. Volkamer, a. German botanist. Nat. Ord. Verbenacece. This genus is closely allied to Clerodendron, but is botanically distinguished from it. The AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 487 VOL two best authenticated species are V. aculeata and V. Acerbiana from Nubia. They succeed well in a compost of sandy loam and leaf mould, and are increased by cuttings. Syn. Clerodendron. Volubilis. Twisting or twining round some other body. Volute. Rolled up in any way. Voy'ria. From Voyra, the name of a species in Guiana. Nat. Ord. Gentianacece. A genus of tropical American plants con- necting Gentianacece with Orobanchacece, inas- much as the species are parasitical on the trunks of old trees, and have only minute, scale-like leaves. The tuberous roots of V. rosea are of a reddish color externally and white within, they are baked and eaten in Guiana like Potatoes. WAL Vrie'sia. Named in honor of Dr. W. de Vriese, Professor of Botany at Amsterdam, Holland. Nat. Ord. Bromeliaceoe. This genus is the most remarkable of the Natural Order to which it belongs. There are but few species, the most interesting being V. speciosa (syn. Tillandsiasplendens), a native of Brazil. The beauty of this species consists in the tall spike of brilliant scarlet bracts, from which the flowers are produced. The flowers are yellow and quite transient, but the rich color of the bracts continues a long time. The plant has the general appearance of the Billbergia, and requires the same treat- ment. Introduced in 1844. This genus is now included under Tillandsia by some authors. Vulnerary. Useful in the cure of wounds. Vulviform. Like a cleft, with projecting edges. w. w aahoo or Burning Bush. purpureus. Euonymus atro- Wachendo'rfia. Named in honor of J. E. Wachendorf, a Dutch botanist. Nat. Ord. Haimodoracece. A small genus of Cape plants, usually of- fered in seedsmen's catalogues as bulbs, more from their Ixia-like flowers than the shape of their roots. They all have rhizomes or un- derground stems, in the scales of which buds, like little bulbs, form, by which, when de- tached, some of the species are propagated. The flowers are yellow or violet, scattered on 1 slender scapes about a foot high. The species ' are nearly evergreen, but not hardy. They should be grown in pots, which should be large for the size of the plant, and allowed a partial rest soon after flowering, which is in midsummer. Introduced in 1770. Syn. Pedi- lonia. Wahlenbe'rgia. Named in honor of Dr. George Wahlenberg, author of "Flora Lapponica," etc. Nat. Ord. Campanulacece. This genus consists of hardy annuals and perennials, with a few tender annuals. They are mostly natives of the Cape of Good Hope. Like the whole of the order, these are very pretty plants. The herbaceous perennial species, one of the best of which is W. grandi- flora, of which there are white and blue vari- eties, are very handsome. Seed sown in June will give fine flowering plants the next sea- son. The annuals should be raised in heat in the spring, and planted out when danger from frost is passed. Introduced in 1816. Wai'tzia. In honor of F. A. C. Waits, an Eastern traveler. Nat. Ord. Composite. A genus of showy "everlasting flowers," all of which are half-hardy, growing from one to two feet high, and bearing beautiful pink or yellow flowers. Natives of Australia, and requiring a warm soil and situation for their perfect development. Wake Robin. A common name for Trillium cernuum, also for Arum maculatum. Waldstei'nia. Named in honor of Count von Waldstein, a German botanist and author. A small genus of Rosacea, comprised of four species of hardy, creeping, perennial plants, with the aspect of some of the Potentillas. The leaves are palmately divided, and the flowers yellow in terminal corymbs. They are natives of central and eastern Europe, northern Asia and America, and are rather pretty plants, thriving in ordinary soil. W. fragarioides (Barren Strawberry) is common on the Alleghanies. Syns. Dalibarda and Co- maropsis. "Walking-Fern. A name sometimes given to Lycopodium alopecuroides. Walking-Leaf or Walking-Pern. A common name for Camptosorus rhizophyllus. Walks. It was Downing, we believe, who laid down the common-sense rule, that in the lay- ing out of walks or drives in the garden or pleasure-ground, there " never should be any deviation from a straight line unless for some real or apparent cause." So, if curved lines are desired, trees, rock, buildings or mounds must be placed at the bend or curve, as a reason for going round such obstacles. If any one doubts the necessity for this rule, let him observe the effect produced on level ground, where a line runs in corkscrew fash- ion, as is sometimes seen in the space between the house and the street. The absurdity is apparent, for no matter what leisure one may have, to be compelled to go a roundabout way to reach a point where there is no apparent reason or necessity for it, is certain to grate on the senses ; yet ridiculous as this is, such cases are by no means rare, as there is a pre- vailing notion that such walks or drives must be curved lines (the curve being the line of beauty), whether the necessities, natural or artificially formed for such lines, are present or not. Often the formation of new grounds is totally ruined in this way. The proprietor, entirely ignorant of what is wanted, places himself in the hands of some ignorant gar- dener, who pretends to a knowledge of what HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS WAL strictly belongs to the trained landscape en- gineer. As well might he expect the average bricklayer, working for two or three dollars per day, to plan and supervise the erection of his dwelling-house as the average gardener, to whom he pays $50 or $60 a month, to lay out his carriage drives and lawn ; for the one is oftentimes equally as much a matter of taste and skill as the other. In suburban residences, where the house is not more than a hundred feet or so from the street, a drive is best made by having an entrance at each side of the lot, so that the carriage can enter at one gate and go out at the other, presuming that the width of the ground is 500 feet, and the distance from the street to the front door is 150 feet. Then the foot- walk should be in a straight line direct from the street to the front door. The width of the roads or walks must be governed by the extent of the grounds. For the carriage-way the width should not be less than ten feet, and for foot- walks -five feet. Often gardens of considerable pretensions have the walks not more than three feet wide, where it is utterly impossible for two persons to walk abreast without getting their dresses torn or faces scratched by overhanging branches. Of course, it is another matter when the garden plot is limited to the width of a city lot (25 or 50 feet), then such economy of space is perfectly excusable. The character of the soil must in a great measure determine the manner of makingthe walk or road. Every one must have noticed that, after a heavy rain, unpaved streets in some districts remain next to impassible for many hours, while in others, after the same amount of rainfall, they • are comparatively dry. This is entirely due to the nature of the subsoil, which, if gravelly or sandy, will quickly allow the water to pass off; if, however, the subsoil is of clay, then provision must be made for ample drainage, else, no matter of what material the walk or road is composed, unless the water passes through it or off it rapidly, it will never be satisfactory. Wall-Cress. The genus Arabis. Wall Pern. Polypodium vulgare. Wall Flower. See Cheiranthus. Fairy. Erysimum pumilum. Western. Erysimum Arkansanum. Alpine. Erysimum ochroleucum. Walli'chia. Named after Dr. Nathaniel Wallich, Superintendent of the Botanical Garden, Cal- cutta, and author of several valuable works on Indian plants. Nat. Ord. Palmaceaz. A small genus of dwarf, tufted, stove-house palms, natives of the East Indies. W. caryo- toides and W. densiflora are both in cultivation, and require a strong, rich soil and a warm, moist temperature. They are increased by seeds when procurable, or by gradually sepa- rating the suckers so as to allow them to make sufficient root before they are quite detached. Wall-Pennywort. A common name for Coty- ledon umbillicus. Wall-Pepper. A name given to Sedum acre. Wall-Rue. The popular name of Asplenium liuta-muraria. Walnut. The common name of Juglans regia. Walnut. Black. Juglans nigra. Wandering Jew. A common name for Trades- WAR cantia zebrina (see Zebrina) ; also applied to Saxifraga sarmentosa. Wanghee, Whangee. The names given to some Eastern canes ; species of PhyUostachys, im- ported in large quantities for the manufacture of walking-sticks. Waratah. See Telopia speciossima. Wardian Case. This is a neat contrivance, used for such plants as require a moist, still atmosphere, such as Ferns, Mosses, the so-called "insect-eating" plants, as Nepen- thes, Sarracenias, Dionmas, etc., or tropical plants grown for the beauty of their leaves, as Dracamas, Crotons, Marantas, Caladiums, etc. The Wardian Case has a base or tray made of Black Walnut, Oak or other ornamen- tal wood about six inches deep and lined with zinc, and glass sides and hinged top ; or the tray is made of terra cotta or other earthen- ware. They are made of various sizes, the average, however, being about twenty-four inches long and sixteen inches in width and height. They should be elevated on a stand to a height that will allow its contents to be best seen, as the plants used for that purpose should be such as will bear the closest inspec- tion for richness of shading or curious con- struction of leaves. When the Wardian Case is first filled with plants, it should be given water sufficient to reach to the bottom of the soil, but not enough to make the soil too wet. The top of the case is hinged, so that it can be lifted to allow the escape of moisture, which, when in excess when the case is closed, will be known by its trickling down the sides of the glass. Usually it will be sufficient to raise the lid an inch or so every day or two to keep the glass free from this moisture ; and no ventilation is necessary except to get rid of this excess, as the closer it is kept the better it is for the welfare of the peculiar class of plants suited for it. The effectiveness of the Wardian Case depends a great deal on the arrangement of the plants, the tallest and most conspicuous being in the centre, with the smallest towards the edges, varying the interest on all sides of it by contrasting the different colorings and forms of the leaves. The Wardian Case should be placed in a position where it does not get the direct sun- light. The plants with which it is usually filled are natives of shady woods or marshes, where they are sheltered from winds and in partial shade, and the nearer their natural condition can be imitated in the Wardian Case the better. Ferneries, so called, require sub- stantially the same character of plants and the same treatment, the only real difference being that they are round, and the glass covering is what is known as a bell glass. Wa'rrea. Named after F. Warre, a botanical collector. Nat. Ord. Orchidacem. A small genus of Orchids from Central and South America, resembling Maxillaria. They are of neat habit, and produce their showy flowers freely. W. cyanea is remarkable for the deep blue color of its lip, pure blue being rarely found among Orchids. This genus succeeds best in pots in leaf-mould and sphag- num moss. They require no rest, and may be grown in a moderately warm house. Warszewicze'lla. A genus of OrchidacecB, now included under Zygopetalum. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 489 WAS Washingto'nia. The generic name now adopted by some botanists for two species of Cali- fornian Palms, W. filifera and W. robusta. The former is known in cultivation as Brahea and Pritchardia filamentosa. "Washington Thorn. A common name for Cra- taegus cordata, found from Virginia southward along the Alleghanies, etc. Warted Gourd. Cucurbita Pepo verrucosa. "Water Aloe or Water Soldier. Common names for Stratioides aloides. Water Anemone. A common name for Ranun- culus aquatilis. Water Archer. Sagittaria Sagittifolia. Water Arum. The popular name of Calla palustris. Water Beech. A popular name for Carpinus Americana. Water Chestnut. See Trapa. Water Chinquapin. See Nelumbium. Water-cress. See Nasturtium. Waterfall. A Waterfall or Cascade is a decided improvement where a running stream passes through a park or lawn, and is formed by first constructing a bank of masonry presenting an inclined plane to the current and rendering it impervious to water by the use of cement ; and next by varying the ridge of the bank and the bed of the stream below it with fragments of rock', so chosen and placed as not to pre- sent a character foreign to what nature may be supposed to have produced there. The adjoining ground frequently requires to be raised at such places, but may be harmonized by the judicious planting of shrubs or trees. Water Flag. Iris Pseud-acoris. Water Gladiole. A name given by Gerarde to the Flowering Rush, Butomus umbellatus. Water Hemlock. See Cicuta. Water Hemp, See Acnida cannabina and Bidens tripartita. "Water Horehound. Lycopus Europceus. "Watering. This is one of the most important operations in the indoor culture of plants, and one that it is almost impossible to get a proper knowledge of without actual expe- rience, as the circumstances are so various when water should be given or withheld, that, were we to write a volume on the subject, it would not be of as much value as a year's actual practice. There are, however, some general rules that it will help the beginner to keep in mind. One important rule is, never to water a plant until it is dry. What this condition of dryness is, is governed not altogether by the indications of the soil being dry on the surface, but also by the vigor of the plant. A good rule is to rap the side of the pot with the knuckles ; if dry, it should have a ringing sound, and should have suffi- cient water given it to penetrate the entire ball ; if a dull and solid sound, the plant requires no water. A luxuriant plant, grow- ing in a temperature of 70° or 80°, with indications of dryness on the surface of the pot, should receive sufficient water to satu- rate the soil to the bottom ; while a plant that has been cut down for cuttings, or by any other reason defoliated, and thus lessened in vigor, should not be watered until almost at WAT the point of wilting. Again, experience tells us that soft-wooded plants, such as Gerani- ums, Fuchsias or Heliotropes, will recuperate even when dried to wilting, if thoroughly soaked, while hard-wooded plants, such as Azaleas, Heaths or Camellias., under the same circumstances, would fail to recover. All succulent plants, such as Cacti, Sedums, Echeverias, etc., will admit of being kept nearly entirely dry during the dormant sea- son; and, although they will exist with but little water even for twelve months, yet, when their proper season of growth begins (which will be indicated by the developing of the buds or shoots), they require water nearly as regularly as the ordinary class of soft- wooded plants. The degree of atmospheric moisture kept in the green-house greatly determines the amount of water required at the roots, and a proper degree of "atmospheric moisture is indispensable for the welfare of the plants. When firing in winter sufficient to raise the temperature to 50 degrees, or in dry weather at other seasons, this moisture can either be had by evaporating pans on the pipes or by syringing, judgment being used, of course, by the state of the atmosphere ; for in wet or muggy weather the artificial means of pro- ducing moisture should be stopped. It is claimed by some, that plants should be watered or syringed by water at the same temperature as the house. When this can be done without inconvenience, it may be as well to do so ; but we have proved by over twenty-five years' extensive experience, that it is not a necessity, for we rarely use water at a higher temperature than 45 degrees, either in watering or syringing, and have never known an instance where injury was done. The ordinary watering of plants from sowings or plantings in the open ground in dry weather we believe to be of little avail, if it is not sometimes a positive injury, unless the circumstances are such that the plants can be completely flooded or irrigated. Water Leaf. A common name for the genus Hydrophyllum, which see. Water Lemon. Passiflora laurifolia. Water Lettuce. See Pistia. Water Lily. See Nymphma odorata. Blue. Nymphma scutifolia. Syn. N. cyanea. Chinese. Nelumbium speciosum. Egyptian. Nymphma Lotus Florida. Nymphma flava. Royal or Victoria. Victoria regia. Yellow. Nuphar lutea. Water Locust. Gleditschia monosperma ; found from South Carolina southward, generally near the coast, reaching its greatest develop- ment on the bottom lands of southern Arkan- sas, Louisiana and eastern Texas. Water Maize. Victoria regia. Water Melon. Citrullus vulgaris. The cultiva- tion of the Water Melon is in all respects similar to that of the Musk Melon or Cucum- ber, except that being a larger and stronger growing plant it requires to be planted at greater distances apart. It delights in a light, sandy soil, and will not grow satisfactorily on heavy, clayey soils. It is now one of the staple crops in many of the Southern States, hun- dreds of tons being shipped to the northern and western markets every season. At the 490 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS WAT date of writing, the most approved kinds are, Phinney's Early, Rattlesnake or Gipsey, Iron- i clad Mammoth and " Green and Gold." Many i other sorts are, of course, favorites in different sections of the country. Water Milfoil. See Myriophyllum. "Water Nymph. One of the popular names of Nymphcea odorata. Water Oak. Quercus aquatica, and sometimes Q. palustris. Water Parsnip. The common name of the genus Slum, poisonous aquatic plants. Water Pennywort. A popular name for aquatic plants belonging to the genus Hydrocotyle, which see. "Water Pepper. A common name of the Poly- gonum Hydropiper, which is also called Smart- weed. Water Pimpernel or Brookweed. The common name of marshy weeds belonging to the genus Samolus. Water Plantain. See Alisma Plantago. Water Plants. The numerous water plants are now grown to such perfection in many of our parks and private gardens that we deem it advisable to devote a special article to them, , though they will be found elsewhere described in their order. Many have been deterred ■ from attempting their culture by the idea . that a special green-house and tank must be built for their accommodation, and though the various species can be had in flower almost all the year round in such a structure, they may be grown with great success out-of- doors and made to form one of the most attractive features of the garden or lawn during the summer months. They may be successfully grown in large tubs or half-bar- rels in the open air, either on the surface or sunk in the ground. A very effective and inexpensive plan is to arrange the tubs in connection with a rock- ery, a large tub in the centre being placed somewhat higher than the rest, and connected by pipes or by pieces of rubber hose, so that the overflow from the large tub runs from one to the other, changing the water* in all. Oil barrels cut in two make excellent tubs. The space around the tubs is filled with good, rich compost, held in place by large stones, in which foliage and flowering plants, such as tuberous-rooted Begonias, Sedums, Caladiums, Palms, etc., are planted. The effect produced in this manner is really beau- tiful. They can, however, be grown to much greater perfection if allowed plenty of room in • a tank or pond made especially for their reception. This should be in a warm, sunny situation on the lawn or elsewhere, where by judicious planting of the background with Ferns, Musas, Bamboos, Caladiums, Cannas, etc., they* may be shown off to much better advantage, and the tropical idea of the scene sustained. For the more tender kinds it is necessary.in this latitude, to make the bottom of cement or concrete, as the water is then more readily heated by the sun and retains its heat better. As several of the species are rampant growers it is advisable to have partitions made for them WAT so that they will be confined within proper limits. Means ought also be provided for emptying the tank of water when desired, and also a waste-pipe near the top for overflow, so that fresh water may be run in occasion- ally to prevent stagnation. They may also be grown in the base of a fountain, but they will not flourish if the spray is allowed to fall on the leaves. Most of the species do not require the water to be over two feet in depth, but if the larger species are desired it will be necessary to sink holes a foot or more deep and four feet wide to hold sufficient soil for their reception. The various species (which should have been started in the green-house) may be planted out in the beginning of June when they will soon commence to bloom, continuing until the first frost. If it is desired to enjoy the longest possible season of bloom in the open air, the pond may be located near the green- house and some connection made with the hot-water boiler. Waste steam from a factory or other concern could be utilized for this, purpose. The best soil for growing all kinds of aquatic plants is a good, rich, fibrous loam, with a liberal admixture of well rotted stable or cow manure. Rich mud from the bed of a pond or sluggish stream is also good, but we consider the first-mentioned the best. The compost should be well mixed, placed in the tank with a good layer of clean sand on the top to purify the water and prevent muddi- ness. These conditions, viz., still, warm water and rich compost, favor the growth of a low form of vegetable life, called confervee, or green scum, which becomes very unsightly and troublesome unless eradicated. As the result of several years' experience, we are quite positive that, if abundance of Gold-fish are kept in the tank or pond, there will be no trouble in this direction. Innumerable kinds of aquatic insects breed in the water, and some of their larvas prey upon the leaves of the Lilies, but the common water-snail is the greatest enemy of aquatic plants. The Gold-fish assist very materially in destroying these larva? and snails, but we have found a complete preventive of injury to the foliage from this source by keeping in the tank, in addition to the Gold-fish, some of the common spotted Sun-fish. They are car- nivorous in habit and very alert and active. Moreover, it is impossible for mosquitoes to breed in a Water Lily basin in which abun- dance of the above-named fish, or those of similar habit, are kept. Their beautiful ap- pearance, and the ease with which they may be taught to feed from the hand (though it must not be done too frequently), make them charming adjuncts to the Water Garden. If the tank is two feet or more in depth, they can be left in it all winter with perfect safety in this latitude. Thus one objection to locat- ing these tanks or ponds in the vicinity of the dwelling-house is removed. Sometimes, toward autumn, brown aphides, or plant lice, become troublesome on the Lily leaves. We have found a weak solution of kerosene emulsion (see Insecticides) to be a perfectly safe remedy without any injury whatever to the plants. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 491 WAT The many species that can be successfully grown and flowered in the open air in this latitude are described in their proper place in this work, but for convenience we here group them together. Night-blooming Water Lilies. Unlike our native Nymphcea odorata, some species open their flowers at night, beginning about eight o'clock and remaining expanded until about ten o'clock the next morning, each flower opening three nights in succession. The following will be found the most de- sirable of this class: Nymphcea Devoniensis (rosy red with scarlet stamens), N. rubra (brilliant red), one of the parents of the fore- going, N. Sturtevanti (a semi-double variety, with rosy-red flowers, not so free flowering as the others), N. dentata (a native of Sierra Leone, with white sweet-scented flowers), N. Lotus (pure white) and N. Ampla (sulphur- white), strongly banana-scented. The day-flowering and other ornamental water-plants we group together: Nymphcea scutifolia (syns. N. coerulea and N. cyanea) (lavender blue), N. Zanzibar ensis, unquestion- ably the deepest colored and finest of all the blue Water Lilies known, there are several varieties of it now in cultivation : Nelumbium 8peciosum, Limnocharis Humboldtii and L. Plumieri, Ouverandra fenestralis, Pontederia crassipes major, Pondeteria azurea, Pistia stra- tioides, Salvinia Triancea, Azolla, etc. Myrio- phyllum Proserpinacoides, a comparatively new introduction from Brazil, is also desirable, on account of the exquisite beauty of its leaves, which are arranged in whorls along the stem, and are as finely divided as the most delicate Fern. Hedichiums, Carinas, Richardias, Papyrus antiquorum, Cyperus altemifolius, and other plants may be partially immersed and will add largely to the beauty of the arrangement, especially if used as a background. Many of our hardy aquatic plants can also be introduced, and will be found of great ser- vice— Nymphcea odorata and its rose and yel- low colored varieties, Nelumbium luteum, IAmnanthemum Lacunosum, Aponogeton Dis- tachyon, Trapa, the various Sagittarias, Callas, Pondeterias, etc. In conclusion, we cannot do better than quote from Mr. Sturtevant, the pioneer of water-plant culture in America. See ' 'Possibili- ties of Aquatic Gardening" in "Gardening for Pleasure," pages 121-125 : " One argument in favor of cultivating tropical Lilies in the open air is, that larger leaves and flowers are obtained, and in case of the colored kinds, greater depth of color than under glass. Another argument is, the grand effect which may be produced on the lawn or in any part of the pleasure ground. Let us suppose that you wish to have an aquatic gar- den, fifty, sixty or a hundred feet in diameter. We will not build it in the stiff form of a circle or oval, but the outline shall be irregular, with here and there a small bay, across which we will throw a rustic bridge to a miniature peninsula. Somewhere on the margin we will build a rustic summer-house. It shall be a two-story affair, for sometimes we shall want to view our pets from an elevated position ; for, unlike our fellow-creatures, they smile ■ upon us when we look down upon them. If we have a rocky ledge in our grounds, let us place our pond near it. Now, let us suppose WAT that all has been planted, established, and come to midsummer perfection. Some morn- ing, before the night-blooming Lilies have begun to take their midday sleep, let us as- cend the low tower and take a view of the picture. There, beneath us, is the noble Nymphcea dentata, covering a space twenty feet in diameter, some of its leaves two feet across, and its milk-white flowers twelve inches across; there is the grand N. rubra, with its immense cups of glowing carmine ; and, there, queen of them all, is N. Devonien- sis, surpassing in brilliancy of flower, if not in size of leaf, the famous Victoria regia. Then come groups of these same Lilies, planted more thickly ; and though the flowers are smaller, yet they are more numerous and just as brilliant. Yonder, a little bay is filled with Egyptian Lotus, its pink and white flowers, on stalks three feet above the water, looking like immense tulips. Next is a mass of the American Lotus, with its sulphur-yellow flowers ; some of its floating leaves have strayed out into an open space, and are thirty inches in diameter. Let us descend and walk along the border of our little lake. Here is a plantation of the lovely blue,-Y. scutifolia; you perceive its fragrance before you come near it. Next is the beautiful Yellow Lily from Florida ; and our own sweet Water Lily is not forgotten, for it is here in masses. Associated with it are its charming new, rose-colored va- riety, N. odorata rosea, and the delicate pink- tinted one. Here are N. candidissima and N. alba rosea, with their waxy petals, similar in color to some of the others, but having their own distinctive merits and attractions. The favorite Calla of our winter gardens lifts its white trumpets towards the sky, and numer- ous smaller-flowered aquatics are found in profusion along the edge of the water. Com- ing around to the Lotuses again, we find growing near them, in shallow water, great clumps of the Egyptian Papyrus, with its plumy heads on stalks six feet high. Now let us look at some of the plants which asso- ciate well with water, and help form a back- ground for our picture. Scattered along the margin we find groups of ornamental grasses, Eulalias, Erianthus, and Pampas Grass. Yonder, on our little peninsula, stands a noble Banana (Musa Ensete), twelve feet high. Far- ther on is a clump of the tall Bamboo (Arundo Donax), and its variegated variety. There are groups of Cannas, and a large Palm, brought from the green-house to spend the summer in the open air. Another stately plant is Colocasia odorata, with a tree-like trunk and fine, large leaves. What is this great-leaved plant near the water's edge? It is Ounnera scabra (the Giant Rhubarb), with leaves six feet in diameter. Now do you wish to give your friends a glimpse of fairyland? Then illuminate your grounds, and invite them to an evening fete or garden party. The Lotuses and hardy Lilies have closed their flowers, but the night-blooming Water Lilies offer us a feast for the eyes at night. Place large lamps, with reflectors, in such a position as to throw a powerful light directly upon the flowers; or, perhaps, Edison's magic lamps are available, and you suspend a number of them in mid-air over the water. Now the red Lilies fairly glow with color, and are far mora beautiful than by daylight. The water is like 492 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS WAT a mirror, and in its depths you behold another glorious picture — a perfect image of the flow- ers themselves. The large, star-like white ones keep company with the red in their night watches, and are not unworthy companions for them. Look around at the floating leaves, the numerous buds which will open with to- morrow's sun, the tall shields of the Lotus, the rich, tropical foliage on the banks, the rustic arbor covered with myriads of the sil- very blossoms of the Moon Flower (Ipomcea or Calonyction grandiflora), and tell me if this is not a fairy scene. And having taken a view of the Water Lily Garden by daylight and by lamplight, will you not acknowledge that in all that is really beautiful it far surpasses the most elaborate exhibition of carpet-bedding? "Perhaps you will say this is a fancy sketch. Our answer is, that it has been so far realized that we do not hesitate to place such a garden as we have described among the list of 'Possibilities of Horticulture' in America." "Water Purslane. A common name for Lud- wigia palustris and Peplis portula. Water Rice. See Zizania. Water Shield. A common name of one of the Water Lily family, of the genus Brasenia. Water Soldier. See Stratiotes. Water Violet. Hottoniainflata, a white-flowered, aquatic perennial, common in the Southern States. Water White Oak. Quercus lyrata. Water Willow. American. See Dianthera. Water- wort. Elatine Americana. Watso'nia. Bugle Lily. Named in honor of W. Watson, a celebrated London apothecary. Nat. Ord. Iridacem. A genus of half-hardy bulbs from the Cape of Good Hope, formerly classed with the Gladiolus, to which genus they are closely allied, and to which they bear a close resem- blance. They require the protection of a frame during winter, or they may be grown " successfully in the green-house, where their long spikes of brilliant flowers, scarlet, pink, flesh, white and purple, make a magnificent appearance. This, like others of its class, receives but little attention in this countiy, where flowers are so abundant from early spring until winter, that do not require any special care or protection. The beauty of the flower garden in June would be far greater if a little attention were paid to the growing of what is known as Cape Bulbs, the only require- ment being a cold frame of any desired size, and the bulbs protected against hard frosts, but more particularly against rains, too much moisture during the season of rest being very destructive to the whole class. The gorgeous flowers that the many species and varieties afford in June amply repay the slight cost and care in producing them. The Watsonias are produced freely from offsets. Introduced in 1754. Syns. Meriana and Neuberia. Wattle. An Australian name applied to vari- ous species of Acacia and Citharexylum. Wax-Flower. See Hoya. Wax-Flower. Clustered. Stephanotis flori- bunda. Wax-Myrtle. A common name for Myrica - cerifera, which see. WEI Wax-Palm. See Ceroxylon. Wax-Pink. A common name for several spe- cies of Mesembryanthemum. Wax-Plant. The common name for Cerinthe major. Wax-Tree. See Vismia Guianensis. Wax-work. The climbing Bitter-Sweet, Celas- trus scandens, is sometimes called Wax-work, from the appearance of its orange-colored pods. See Celastrus. Wayfaring-Tree. See Viburnum Lantana. We'bera. Named in honor of G. H. Weber, Professor at Kiel and author of several bo- tanical works. Nat. Ord. Rubiaceaz. A genus of stove-house trees and shrubs, natives of tropical Asia, Africa and Australia. Only one or two species are in cultivation. Syns. Ceriscus, Stylocoryne and Tarenna. Wede'lia. Named for G. W. Wedel, a German botanist, Professor at Jena. Nat. Ord. Com- positm. A genus of annual or perennial herbs or shrubs, widely distributed throughout the tropical regions. The several species in cul- tivation are interesting from a botanical standpoint only. Weeds. All plants are so called that come up spontaneously in the ground where crops are sown or planted, no matter what they are ; for, if not wanted there, no matter how orna- mental they may be, they are out of place, and should be cut down as weeds. Annual weeds are the most troublesome on cultivated grounds, but, if taken in time, are easily kept down by use of the steel rake, which, if used before the weeds appear above the surface, makes this part of cultivation a simple matter. (See Bake.) It is of the utmost importance for the welfare of crops that weeds should never get a headway ; for not only is the labor of de- stroying them doubled or quadrupled, but they are generally the grossest kind of feed- ing plants, which thus deprive the crop of its legitimate food. The evil of neglect to de- stroy weeds is not confined to one season ; for when allowed to go to seed, the penalty is paid year after year, often for four or five years after, the seeds coming up as plowing or dig- ging brings them to the surface for germina- tion. We can call to mind instances where market gardens, cultivated in close seed crops, were rendered almost useless in the hands of slovenly owners. When ground gets into this condition, the only remedy is to grow crops such as Cabbage, Potatoes or Corn, which have vigor enough to crowd down an excessive crop of weeds. If land is filled with the seeds of weeds, such crops as Onions, Carrots, Parsnips, Strawberries or Spinach will rarely pay for the labor of clean- ing. Weeds in Lawns. See Lawns. Weeping Cherry. Cerasus semper -flor ens. Weeping Willow. See Salix Babylonica. Weige'lia. Named in honor of C. E. Weigel, a botanical writer, and author of "Observ. Botan." in 1772. Nat. Ord. Caprifoliacece. This genus of very ornamental, hardy, de- ciduous shrubs was introduced from China and Japan in 1843 by Mr. Fortune, to whom we are indebted for many rare and beautiful WHITLAVIA GRANDIFLORA. VITIS (PRUNING VINE WITH TWO SHOOTS). PRUNING VINE WITH ARMS. WATER MELON (KOLB'S GEM). VITIS (SECTION OP FORCING GRAPERY). 492 WATER MELONS (FIELD OF). WASHINGTONIA (BRAHEA) FILAMENT06A. WATRR PUNTS IN CENTRAL PARK, NEW YORK. 493 AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 493 WEI plants and flowers. It is safe to say there is no shrub more deservedly popular, or one that has been more rapidly disseminated. All the species are ornamental, and should be found in every collection of choice shrubs. W. rosea is the original species; its flowers are produced in great profusion in axillary clusters. W. amabilis, the largest of the spe- cies, is looser and more spreading in hab- it, with very dark-red flowers. W. hortensis nivea, a species introduced from Japan in 1863, is one of the best. It is a vigorous grower of drooping habit; the flowers are pure white, produced in great abundance in June and July, with occasional flowers dur- ing the summer. W. rosea variegata is a splendid variety, with variegated foliage (green mottled with yellow), contrasting finely with dark-leaved shrubs or evergreens. Many new varieties have been introduced of late years, chiefly crosses from W. grandiflora. These have been given distinct names which may be found in any general nursery cata- I logue. To make this genus flower freely they should be well pruned in, during summer, thus giving the shorter shoots so formed a chance to ripen off. All the species are in- creased by cuttings, which will grow if taken off in autumn and planted in the open border. Weigelias are sometimes placed botanically under the genus Diervilla, which also includes other species, our native D. trifida and D. ses- siliflora being among them. Weinma'nnia. White Alder. Named after J. W. Weinmann, of Ratisbon, author of several botanical works. Nat. Ord. Saxifragacem. A large genus of plant-stove shrubs, natives of the tropics, few of which are in cultivation. The bark of some of the species has been used in Peru for tanning leather, and it has also been employed in the adulteration of Peruvian Bark. Syn. Leiospermum. We'lfia. Named in honor of the last King of Hanover. Welf or Guelph. Nat. Ord. Pat- macece. A small genus of very beautiful Palms, allied to Geonoma. The foliage has a peculiar and beautiful bronzy color while unfolding. In the younger stages the leaves are simply bilobed; but as the plants develop they be- come pinnate. They are natives of Costa Rica and New Grenada. Young plants are obtained from seed. Wellingto'nia. see. A synonym of Sequoia, which Welsh Onion. Allium fistulosum. "Welsh Poppy. See Meconopsis Cambrica. Welwi'tschia. Named in honor of D. Frederic Welwitsch, a celebrated botanical traveler. Nat. Ord. Gnetacece. W. mirabilis, the only species, is one of the most remarkable productions of the vegetable kingdom. It was discovered by Dr. Welwitsch in the dry, sandy country of the Mossamedes, in western Africa. The two leaves were at first described as being simply persistent 1 cotyledons enormously developed, but such is not the case ; the two cotyledons last for some time, and then the true leaves appear. They spring from two deep grooves in the trunk, six feet or more in length, quite flat, linear, very leathery, splitting with age into innumerable thongs that lie curling on the WHI surface of the soil. The trunk is obconical, about two feet long, rising a few inches only above the soil, with the appearance of a flat two-lobed depressed mass, sometimes four- teen feet in circumference. When fully grown, it is dark brown, hard and cracked, the lower part forming a stout tap-root buried in the soil. It was first introduced in 1868. Wendla'ndia. Named in honor of M. Wend- land, a Hanoverian botanist. Nat. Ord. Ru- biacem. A genus consisting of trees or shrubs, na- tives of the East Indies. The flowers, which are white, pink or yellow, are borne in densely flowered, terminal panicles. There are about sixteen species described, of which some two or three are in cultivation. They require stove-house temperature, and are increased by cuttings. Werne'ria. Named in honor of A. G. Werner, Professor of Mineralogy at Friburg, 1750-1817. Nat. Ord. Composites. A genus of dwarf perennial plants, natives of the Andes of South America. W. rigida, the only introduced species, thrives in a light soil, and may be increased by division of the roots. Syn. Doronicum Peruvianum. Western Wall-Flower. This name has been applied to the flowers of the Erysimum Arkan- sanum (Treacle Mustard), because they are as large as those of the Wall-Flower. See Ery- simum. Western Yew. A name given to Taxus brevir folia. West Indian Cabbage Palm. See Oreodoxa. Whahoo or Winged Elm. See TJlmus alata. Whangee or Wangee Cane. Phyllostachys nigra. Wheat. See Triticum. Whin or Furze. The common name for Ulex Europaeus. ' Whin. Petty or Needle. The common name for Genista Anglica. White Alder. One of the popular names of the genus Clethra, also given to Platylophus trifo- liata which see. White Ash. See Fraxinus. White Bladder Flower. A name applied to Physianthus albens. White Cedar. A name applied to Thuya occi- dentalis and Cupressus thyoides. White Clover. See Trifolium repens. "White Cypress. Taxodium distichum. White Daisy, Ox-Eye Daisy. See Leucanthe- mum vulgare. White Hellebore. See Veratrum viride. White Laurel. See Magnolia glauca. White Lettuce. Rattlesnake Root. The popu- lar name of the common weed Nabalus albus. White Oak. See Quercus. White Pine. See Pinus Strobus. White Snake Root. See Eupatorium Agera- toides. White Spruce. See Abies alba. White Thorn. Hawthorn. See Crataegus. White Water Lily. See Nymphcea. White Weed. See Leucanthemum vulgare. 494 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS WHI "White "Wood. A name applied to Liriodendron tulipifera, Tilia Americana, etc. Whitfie'iaia. Named after T. Whitfield, a col- lector of African plants. Nat. Ord. Acan- thacea,. A small genus of ornamental stove-house shrubs, natives of tropical Africa. W. lateritia, the only introduced species, has showy orange-red flowers and coriaceous, ovate, evergreen leaves. It is increased by cuttings of the young wood. Whitla'via. Named in honor of F. Whitlaw, an Irish botanist. Nat. Ord. Hydrophyllacem. A small genus of hardy annuals of low growth, from California, producing freely handsome white or violet-blue flowers. They are very effective in any department of the flower garden, whether in beds, borders or ribbons. They require the same treatment as other hardy annuals. Introduced in 1854. Whitloof or Witloof. A local name for a variety of Chicory. Whitlow Grass. The genus Draba and Paro- nychia. Whorl. Similar organs arranged in a circle round an axis, as the leaves of some Lilies. Whortleberry. See Gaylussacia and Vaccinium. Widdringto'nia. African Cypress. Formerly included in the genus Thuya, but now consti- tuting a distinct group of the Cupressineous division of Conifers. The species consist of trees, natives of the Cape of Good Hope, and have crowded, alternate leaves, not opposite, as in Thuya. W. Cupressoides, better known as Thuya cupressoides, is cultivated as a half- hardy evergreen. Introduced in 1799. Widow. Mournful. A common name for Scabiosa atropurpurea. Widow's Tears. A popular name for Tra- descantia Virginica. Wiga'ndia. Named in honor of John Wigand, a Bishop of Pomerania. Nat. Ord. Hydro- phyllacece. A small genus of ornamental-leaved plants from Mexico and Caraccas. The leaves are immense, being three feet long by one and a half in width, richly veined, and the stems covered with crimson hairs. W. macrophylla (syn. W. Caracasana), a most beautiful spe- cies, is a magnificent plant for massing on large lawns, or for planting as single specimens on smaller grounds. W. Vigieri, is also an excellent ornamental species much used in sub-tropical gardening. Plants of this genus should be grown annually from seed ; though the plant is a perennial, old plants lose all their beauty of foliage and get scraggy. Young plants may be had by sow- ing the seed in the green-house or a hot-bed, and growing them on until the time for plant- ing out. For small gardens none of the plants are desirable, as they require room, light and air to grow them in perfection. They were first introduced in 1837. Wig-Tree. A name applied to Rhus cotinus. Wild Allspice, Fever Bush. Local names of the genus IAndera, which see. Wild Apple. Garland Flowering. See Pyrus 8pectabilis. Wild Balsam Apple. The fruit of Echinocystis lobata, a genus of Cucurbitaceoe. WIN Wild Bean. Phaseolus perennis. Wild Bergamot. Horse Mint. See Monarda fistulosa. Wild Chamomile. See Matricaria. Wild Clary. Salvia Verbenaca. Wild Comfrey. Cynoglossum Virginicum, a troublesome, obnoxious weed, common espe- cially westward. Wild Elder. Aralia hispida, sometimes called Bristly Sarsaparilla. Wild Geranium. See Erodium. Wild Ginger. Asarum Canadense. Wild Guelder Rose. See Viburnum. Wild Hyacinth. See Camassia. Wild Lily of the Valley. See Smilacina. Wild Liquorice. Galium lanceolatum and Abrvs precatorius. Wild Marjoram. See Origanum. Wild Mustard. See Sinapis. Wild Oat Grass. A popular name of the genus Danthonia, which see. Wild Olive. See Elozagnus. Wild Pink. Silene Pennsylvanica. Wild Potato Vine. Ipomcea pandurata. Some- times called Man of the Earth, on account of the size and shape of the tubers. Wild Radish. Raphanus raphanistrum. Wild Rice. See Zizania. Wild Sarsaparilla. See Aralia nudicaulis. Wild Sensitive Plant. See Cassia nictitans, a low-growing annual plant, closely resembling the Sensitive Plant. Wild Service Tree. See Pyrus. Wild Snow-ball. A common name for Ceano- thus Americanus. Willdeno'via. Named in honor of C. L. Will- denow, Professor of Botany at Berlin, 1765- 1812. Nat. Ord. Restiacem. A genus of interesting green-house plants with rush-like, leafless stems; natives of southern Africa. W. teres, probably the only cultivated species, thrives in a compost of loam and leaf-mould and may be increased by division. Syn. Nematanthus. Willeme'tia. Named in honor of P. R. Willemet, author of " Herbarium Mauritianum." Nat. Ord. Rhamnacem. W. Africana, the only species, is a pretty, glabrous, green-house shrub, with cymes or panicles of white flowers. It is a native of southern Africa, and is readily increased by cuttings. It is also in cultivation under the name of Noltia Africana. Willow. See Salix. Willow. French or Persian. Epilobium anguS' tifolium. Willow Grass. Polygonum amphibium. Willow Herb. See Epilobium. Willow Oak. Quercus Phellos. Wind Flower. A popular name for Gentiana Pneumonanthe, and the genus Anemone. Window Gardening. This is yearly becoming more popular with us, and in all our best- appointed hotels, window boxes or stands of plants are seen, often arranged with exquisite taste. The plants selected are usually such AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 495 WIN as are attractive for their beauty of foliage, rather than flower, as few plants can be found whose flowers will long remain perfect in the dry atmosphere of our sitting or dining- rooms. The plants best fitted for such pur- poses are found to be Palms, Cordylines, Aspidistras (variegated), Ophiopgon, Antheri- cum vittatum, Crotons and Dracaenas, the Screw Pine (Pandanus), etc., for winter, and Caladiums, Coleuses, fancy-leaved Begonias, Petunias, and many others for summer. When flowering plants are used for temporary decorations, Primulas, Cyclamens, Azaleas, Passifloras, Camellias, Mignonette, Sweet Alyssum, Heliotrope, Carnations, Roses, or other flowering plants having fragrance are selected. The boxes used in window gardening are made of a great variety of materials, such as wood, terra cotta, iron, rustic or wicker work, etc. But as the box is only a medium to hold the plants, the latter should be the object of attraction, and not the box, so that any ordi- nary box made of pine will answer a tem- porary purpose just as well as an expensive one, as the sides soon become covered up with the drooping or creeping plants. The window box should be made of a length to suit the size of the window sill, and from eight to twelve inches wide, with a depth of from four to six inches. On a visit to London some years ago we found that the rivalry of the occupants of houses in window gardening even exceeded that in their door yards, the windows of the houses on each side of the street to four and five stories in height, for miles in length, presenting a scene of bright colors perfectly dazzling, markedly among which were the blue of the Lobelia, the yellow of the golden Moneywort, and the scarlet of the Tropeeolum, forming drooping curtains of these brilliant colors, often to a length suf- ficient to reach the window below. The plants used in arranging the window box are so much a, matter of taste that we will not here make suggestions, other than to say that the best effect is had by making the inner row of plants of a bushy nature, say Geraniums, Begonias, Coleus, Heliotrope, etc., interspersed with Ficus, Palms, or other decorative plants ; while for the outer row to droop, Lobelias, Nastur- tiums, Golden Moneywort, Petunias, etc., may be used. Individual taste, however, is sure to govern the selection. "Wind-Root. A local name for Asclepias tube- rosa. "Wind Rose. Papaver Argemone and Roemeria hybrida. "Wine Palm. East Indian, Phoenix sylvestris. Wings. The lateral petals of a Pea flower ; the flat, membraneous appendages of some seeds, as those of many Conifers and the Maples. "Winter Aconite. See Eranthis. "Winter-berry, Black Alder. See Prinos and Ilex. "Winter Bloom. A common name for Hamame- lis Virginica. "Winter Cherry. A name given to Physalis Alkekengi. "Winter Cress. (Barbarea vulgaris.) This is the common Winter Cress, a plant which is some- times used as a salad, but is rarely cultivated. The species was probably introduced and is quite common in the North and West. WIN Winter Daffodil. Sternbergia lutea. Winter Flowering Plants. The most desira- able plants for winter flowering may be divided into the two sections, usually desig- nated green-house and hot-house plants; the former requiring a night temperature of from forty-five to fifty degrees, while the latter will not thrive in a lower night temperature than from sixty to sixty-five degrees. Whether the plants are grown in the parlor or sitting-room of a private dwelling, or in a green-house, specially con- structed for their culture, the conditions should be as nearly as possible the same; that is a uniformity of temperature and an avoidance of dry atmosphere. It is easy enough in the green-house to get a properly humid atmosphere by sprinkling the paths with water ; but in a room in the dwelling- house, the only thing that can be done is to see that some method of evaporating water to supply a moist atmosphere is attached to the stove, furnace, or whatever may be the source of heat. If plants are kept in a sitting-room or parlor, an east, southeast or south aspect should be chosen. Plants of the class that may be grown at an average temperature of fifty degrees at night are Azaleas, Abutilons, Ageratums, Carna- tions, Cinerarias, Catalonian and Cape Jes- samines, Camellias, Callas, Chorizemas, Gera- niums of all kinds, Hyacinths, Polyanthus, Narcissus, Early Tulips, Cyclamens, Paris Daisies, Fuchsias, Mahernias, Primulas, Ste- vias, Roses and many other species known generally as green-house plants. Of the second class, or hot-house plants, we name the following: Begonias, Bouvardias, Clerodendrons, Euphorbias, Epiphyllums Heliotropes, Poinsettias, many of the hardier Orchids, etc. The many species of Palms, Pandanus, Ficus, Crotons, Ferns, and other plants grown for their ornamental foliage, also thrive better in a warm temperature, though many plants will do well in either; but we make this distinction as a guide to those having a choice of temperature, in order that they may select the plants that are best adapted to that at their command. In a green-house, particularly if heated by a flue, there is often a difference of five or ten degrees between one end and the other ; and in such a case the plants named in the first class must be placed at the cool end, and those of the second class at the other. One of the most troublesome pests of plants grown in the green-house or the sitting-room in winter is the Aphis, or "Green Fly, " as it is termed. There is no difficulty in getting rid of it in the green-house, when it is sepa- rate from the dwelling ; all that is necessary is to get some tobacco stems (such as are thrown out as refuse, by cigar makers), and sprinkle them with water so that they become slightly damp. About half a pound or so for a green- house twenty-five by twenty feet is placed over a small handful of shavings, only enough to light the dampened tobacco, as too many shavings might injure the plants by smoke. The burned tobacco stems give out a smoke that is quickly fatal to the " Green Fly. " To thoroughly prevent the least appearance of this insect the green-house should be fumi- gated every four or five days. If the green- house is attached to the dwelling, so that the 496 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS WIN tobacco smoke would find its way into the rooms, recourse may be had to another remedy : take the same waste tobacco stems and steep them in water until the liquid is of the color of strong tea. With this water syringe the plants freely twice a week. Another plan is to sprinkle the leaves with water and then shake snuff or tobacco dust over them. The "Ked Spider" is another pest to winter-blooming plants, even worse than the Aphis, and wherever it is seen you may be certain that the atmosphere has been too dry, and very likely the temperature too hot, as it is rarely found in a cool, damp atmosphere. The treatment for this insect in the green- house is copious syringings with water ; but where only a few plants are grown in the house it is best to go over the leaves, especi- ally on the under side, with a wet sponge or a brush. When the plants are not too large to handle easily, if they are dipped into water at a temperature of 140 degrees, they will be im- mediately cleared of all their insect enemies, not only without the least danger to the most tender foliage, but, as the leaves get a good cleansing, with manifest advantage to their well-being. The Ked Spider is so minute that it is hardly distinguishable by the naked eye, but its destructive effects are quickly per- ceivable, as the leaves upon which it works soon become brown, and if they are closely ex- amined, particularly the under side, the minute insect will be seen in great numbers. Another troublesome insect among plants that are grown in a high temperature is the "Mealy Bug." The insect is flat, and whit- ish brown, usually nestling at the axils of the leaves, where it is covered with a white powder, making it easily distinguishable. This is one of the most annoying of all insects that attack plants, and until a few years ago no certain remedy was known ; but we have now in " Fir Tree Oil," mixed in the proportion of one pint to ten gallons of water, and syringed on once a week, a certain remedy against mealy bug, scale, red spider, and, in fact, nearly all insect life. The use of it must be continued once each week, or the remedy will not be effec- tual. Where only a few plants are grown the same remedy can be applied with a soft brush or sponge on the leaves. (See Insecticides.) In plant growing in pots, nothing indicates so much the skill and knowledge of the cultiva- tor as handsome, healthy plants in small sized pots ; amateur's conservatories are sometimes more conspicuous for the show of red flower pots than for green leaves and gay flowers. There is no set time for repotting soft- wooded plants, as Geraniums, Fuchsias, Coleus, etc. — many need changing every two or three months, while hard-wooded plants, such as Camellias, Azaleas, etc., may probably need it but once every year or once every two or three years. Hard- wooded plants are greatly benefited by giving them a top dressing of fresh earth mixed with a little bone-dust two or three times a year. Amateurs invariably overpot their plants. In repotting, many plants will be found to have but few roots; these require a portion of the ball removed — place them in smaller pots, encourage them to make new roots, and in a short time they will have fine, healthy tops. The proper way for potting plants is, after they have WIN been given proper drainage, put in a little soil (care being taken to have the plant a little below the surface of the pot, sufficient to allow for watering) ; place your plant in the centre of the pot with one hand and with the other heap up the soil loosely in the pot ; give the pot a sharp rap, pressing the soil with the thumb firmly around the plant. In potting large plants, such as Camellias, Aza- leas, etc., a flat stick must be used to firm the soil around the plant ; otherwise it will not be packed as firmly around the edges as is- essential for good results. (See Potting.) The rapid growth of plants of every kind, when the roots are confined in a small pot, soon exhausts the soil, and it is often necessary to apply manure in a liquid state to keep the plant in good condition. As a general thing, we use none in our own practice, preferring to shift the plants into fresh soil at the proper time. When, how- ever, it is inconvenient to shift winter-flower- ing plants into larger pots, they will be great- ly benefited by stirring up the soil on the surface of the pots to the depth of an inch or so, or down to where the young roots appear, replacing it by rich, fresh soil to which one- twentieth of bone-dust has been added. Guano or other concentrated manures may also be advantageously applied in a liquid form, but the safest and best of all liquid manures is that made from cow-dung, it will never hurt the most tender plants ; like all other liquid manures it should only be applied when the pot is well filled with roots, and the soil is moderately dry. (See Manures.) Wintergreen. See Gaultheria and Pyrola. Wintergreen Chickweed. See Trientalis Ameri- cana. Wista'ria. Grape-Flower Vine. Named in honor of Caspar Wistar, once Professor of Anatomy in the University of Pennsylvania. Nat. Ord. Leguminosw. A small genus of hardy, deciduous plants, unquestionably the most ornamental, hardy, flowering climbers we possess. Their lovely panicles of dark purple, light purple, and pure white flowers, single and double, pro- duced in the most wonderful profusion under almost any circumstances, are altogether without a rival. With one exception, they are all natives of China and Japan. W. Sinensis was introduced in 1818, and for many years was grown as a green-house plant, until it was accidentally found to fee hardy. In 1844, W. Sinensis alba, a variety with pure white flowers, was originated. A variety with double flowers was introduced from Japan, its native country, in 1869, by Francis Parkman, of Bos- ton. The flowers of this species are quite fragrant, and very beautiful. It is still quite rare. There are several other species or varieties from the same countries, all merito- rious. W. magnifica is a very fine late-flowering variety with purple flowers. The Japan Wis- tarias are much finer than the Chinese. A few years since Mr. Thomas Hogg sent home from Japan a very choice collection, and among them W. Japonica, with purple flowers, W. Japonica alba, with white flowers, W. longi- racemosa, purple, with panicles exceeding thirty inches in length, also a double variety of this, with fragrant flowers. In addition to these, he sent a species with glossy leaves WTGANDIA. YUCCA FILAMENTOSA. WISTARIA SINENSIS. WALLFLOWER (DOUBLE). ZEA MAYS (INDIAN CORN). AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 497 WIS dotted with gold ; and another species which grows only three or four feet high, and flow- ers in July and August. W. frutescens, a native species, with bluish-purple flowers, of which there is also a white variety, is com- mon from Virginia to Illinois and southward. It is an elegant plant of similar habit, though not quite so productive of flowers, and, unlike the other species, the flowers are developed with the foliage. The English sparrow is very fond of the buds of the Wistaria, and sometimes robs the plant of much of its beauty. All the Wistarias are increased read- ily from seeds or from layers. Syn. Glycine. Wista'ria. Tuberous-rooted. A common name for Apios tuberosa. Witch or Wych Elm. Ulmus montana. "Witch or Wych Hazel. See Hamamelis. Witches' Fingers. A popular English name for Digitalis purpurea. Witches' Thimble. A common name for Silene maritima. Witch Knots. This name is given to the curious tufted bunches of small twigs that fre- quently occur on the larger branches of Birch, Plum, Horn-beam and other trees. The twigs are usually swollen, and both they and the sickly-looking leaves upon them are duller green than usual, and frequently show a slight velvety surface. They are the work of very minute Fungi, belonging to a lowly group of Ascomycetes. The mycellium of the Fungi lives on the tissues of the leaves and bark of the host-plants, and the velvety ap- pearance results from the outgrowth over the whole epidermis of their organs of reproduc- tion. Witheri'ngia. Commemorative of W. Withering, a British botanical author, 1776. Nat. Ord. Solanacece. A small genus of shrubs or small trees, natives of South and Central America and the West Indies. The species are now mostly included under Solanum. Withe-Rod. A common name for Viburnum nudum. Withy. Salix viminalis and S. fragilis. Witse'nia. In honor of M. Witsen, a Dutch patron of botany. Nat. Ord. Iridacew. A small genus of green-house, herbaceous plants, with showy blue, purple, or yellow flowers, natives of the Cape of Good Hope. W. corymbosa, introduced from southern Africa in 1803, closely resembles the Iris, but has small flowers. It flowers during summer, and is propagated by division. Woad Dyer's. A common name for Isatis tinctoria. Woad- Waxen or Wood-waxen. One of the common names of Genista tinctoria. Woad. Wild. Reseda luteola. Wolf-berry. The popular name of Symphoricar- pus occidentalis. Wolfs-bane. See Aconitum. Known also by the common name of Monk's-hood. Wolfs Claw. A common name for Lycopodium clavatum. Wood Ashes. See Fertilizers. Wood Betony. The common name of Pedim- laris Canadensis, which see. WOR Woodbine. The popular name of Lonicera grata, one of our native Honeysuckles. A name also inappropriately applied to Ampe- lopsis quinquefolia and Bignonia radicans. Wood Pern. The genus Aspidium; also a name applied to Polypodium vulgare. Woodfo'rdia. Named for J. Woodford, who wrote an account of the plants around Edin- burgh, Scotland, in 1824. Nat. Ord. Lythra- ce€B. W. jloribunda, the only species, is a low, shrubby plant, with long, spreading branches and bright scarlet flowers in short panicled cymes, on axillary peduncles. It is a native of India, and requires a stove-house to grow it to perfection. It can be increased by cuttings or seeds. Wood Grass. A common name of some of the varieties or species of Sorghum, or Broom Corn. Wood Lily. A common name for Pyrola minor and various species of Trillium. Wood Nettle. See Laportea Canadensis. Wood Pea or Wood Vetch. Orobus sylvatica. Woodruff. See Asperula. Wood Rush. See Luzula. Wood Sage. See Teucrium. Wo'odsia. Named in honor of Joseph Woods, a British botanist. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacew. A small genus of very beautiful, low-growing Ferns. Several of the more beautiful species are natives of this country, and are common in the mountains, north and west. Several species are also found in Europe and Brazil. They are easily grown in the green-house, and are increased by division or from spores. Wood Sorrel. See Oxalis. Wood Violet. vatica. A common name for Viola syl- Woodwa'rdia. Chain Fern. Named in honor of Thomas Jenkinson Woodward, an English botanist. Nat. Ord. Polypodiacta. Very handsome native and exotic Ferns of easy culture. Some of the species produce little hairy bulbs at the axils of the leaves, which either drop off and strike root in the ground, or vegetate while attached to the parent plant, a feature that is common in many other Ferns. Woolly Beard Grass. See Erianthus. Working Roots. This term, we believe, was first used by the author in Practical Floriculture, to distinguish the young white roots emitted from the dry or old roots, and is well appli- cable from the fact that it is only when these young white roots are emitted that a plant begins to grow, the buds or shoots starting simultaneously with these young roots. For example, when we take a dormant Rose that has been grown in a pot, no matter how well it may be supplied with old roots, there is no healthy development of leaves and flowers until the emission of young roots. When we plant out such plants as Celery, Cabbage or Strawberries, in the garden, the young or "Working Roots" emitted from the main roots are certain indications that the plant has started, and that their growth and future development is fairly assured against drought or other causes ; but if the " Working Roots " 498 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS WOE, are not emitted, then there is yet danger of the plants failing. Worm Grass. See Spigelia. Wo'rmia. Named in honor of 0. Wormius, a Danish naturalist. Nat. Ord. DilleniacecB. A genus of very showy trees, some of them growing to a very large size, natives of the Malayan Peninsula, Ceylon, Australia and Madagascar. W. Burbridgei, from Borneo, the finest species yet in cultivation, has broad, handsome leaves, contracted and decurrent, into a very broad petiole, which expands, and is amplexicaul at the base. The pale, golden yellow flowers are three inches in diameter, borne on a simple peduncle two to four inches long. It is much valued also for its excellent timber, which bears some resemblance to Oak. Syn. Lenidia. Popular names for Worms or Caterpillars. Scorpiurus vermiculata. Worm Seed. The seed of Chenopodium anthel- mintiewm. The utricle which surrounds the seed contains a volatile oil, which is con- sidered a worm -destroying medicine. Wormwood. See Artemisia. Wri'ghtia. Palay or Ivory Tree. Named after William Wright, a Scotch physician and bot- anist. Nat. Ord. Apocynacece. A genus consisting of shrubs or small, sometimes scandent and serial-rooting trees, natives of the eastern hemisphere, ranging from Silhet to Nepal and western Australia. Flowers red, white or yellow, in terminal or sub-axillary, sessile cymes. W. tinctoria furnishes an inferior kind of indigo, and the wood, which is pure white, close-grained and ivory-like, is highly valued for turning, car- ving and inlaying. They grow well in a com- post of loam and leaf-mould and are readily increased by cuttings. Wulfe'nia. Named in honor of F. X. Wulfen, a botanical author. Nat. Ord. Scrophulari- acece. XAN A small genus of perennial herbs with thick rhizomes, natives of the mountains of central Europe and Asia. They are well adapted for the rock-garden or flower-border, their beauti- ful blue flowers being very ornamental when in full blossom. W. Carinthiaca is a remark- ably dwarf, almost stemless, evergreen herb, twelve to eighteen inches high, bearing, in summer, showy spikes of purplish-blue, drooping flowers. It is found only on one or two mountains in Carinthia. W. Amherstiana, from the Himalayas, is another very showy, perfectly hardy species, growing freely in any position in the rock-garden, but preferring a shady spot and a light, rich soil. They re- quire to be protected by a frame in winter, and are propagated by division or seeds. Wu'lffia. Named in honor of John C. Wulff, author of " Flora Borussica. " Nat. Ord. Composites. A small genus of tropical American perennial herbs, with yellow or orange-yellow flowers. W. maculata, the only species introduced, is of easy culture in any light soil, and may be in- creased by seeds or by division. Wu'rmbea. Named in honor of F. Van Wurmb, Secretary to the Academy of Sciences at Batavia. Nat. Ord. Melanthacem. A genus of bulbous or tuberous green-house plants, natives of southern Africa and Aus- tralia. W. campanulata, the best known spe- cies, and its varieties are very showy and in- teresting when in flower. They succeed well in a compost of sandy peat and loam, and are easily increased by seeds or by offsets. Wych Elm. Ulmus rnontana. Wye'thia. Named after N. B. Wyeth, the dis- coverer of this genus in northwestern Amer- ica. Nat. Ord. Composites. A genus of hardy, perennial plants, of which W. angustifolia is the only species of interest. None of them are of any horticul- tural interest. X. Xantni'sma. From xanthisma, yellowness ; alluding to the color of the flowers. Nat. Ord. Composites. X. Texanwm, the only species, is a showy, hardy annual or biennial, with heads of bright yellow flowers. Seeds may be sown in the open border in April. Syn. Centauridium. Xa'nthium. From xanthos, yellow ; the plants were formerly used by the Greeks to dye their hair. Nat. Ord. Composite. A genus of coarse-growing, annual plants, principally weeds ; of no horticultural value. Xantho'ceras. The only species, X. sorbifolia, is a low-growing tree, a native of the moun- tains of northern China, belonging to the natural order Sapindacece. It is a beautiful tree, with leaves resem- bling those of Pyrus Aucuparia; the flowers white, with a purple eye, and a yellow spot at the base of each petal. It is still very rare in gardens. Xanthorhi'za. (Some adopt the orthography Xanthorrhiza, following the analogy of Xan- thorroza, etc.) Yellow Root. From xanthos, yellow, and rhiza, a root ; the roots being of a deep yellow color. Nat. Ord. Ranimcula' ce.ee,. X. apifolia, the only known species, is an in- teresting, half-hardy, evergreen shrub, with pretty, dark-purple flowers in early spring. It is common along the mountains from Florida northward. It is propagated by suckers. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 499 XAN Xanthorrhce'a. Black Boys, Grass-tree. From xanthos, yellow, and rheo, to flow; alluding to the yellow juice. Nat. Ord. LiliacecB. Amongst the many curious forms of the vegetable kingdom, the Grass-tree of Austra- lia is one of the most interesting, and forms a conspicuous feature in the landscape of that country; most of the species having thick trunks, like those of Palms, covered with a dense coating formed of the persistent bases of old leaves, glued together by the red or yellow resin with which these plants abound, and usually burnt and blackened outside by bush-fires. The leaves are long, wiry and grass-like, and are borne in a dense tuft at the top of the stem and hang down grace- fully all around it; their long flower-stalks rising out of the centre, and sometimes grow- ing as high as fifteen or twenty feet, bearing at the top a dense, cylindrical flower-spike, resembling that of the Typha, made up of a mass of scales out of which the flowers pro- trude. In general, its presence is indicative of a poor soil, therefore it is one of those plants which give life to the sterility of a great portion of Australia. "When the plants have been denuded of their leaves and their bodies blackened by the bush-fires, they have been ■compared to, and even mistaken for, black men holding spears, hence their .colonial name, Black Boys. Their leaves afford good fodder for cattle, while the natives eat the tender white centre of the top of the stem. Xanthoso'ma. From xanthos, yellow, and soma, a body ; alluding to the large, lobed, de- pressed, yellow stigma. Nat. Ord. Aroidece. A genus of about twenty-five species of milky, perennial herbs, with erect root-stocks, arrow- shaped leaves, and a yellow spathe rolled round at the base. They are natives of tropi- cal America, and some of the species are use- ful as summer decorative plants. Propagated by cutting up the root-stock into small pieces and starting them in heat. Xanthoxyla'ceae. A tribe of Nat. Ord. Rutacece. Xantho'xylum. Prickly Ash, Toothache Tree. From xanthos, yellow, and xylon, wood ; the roots are yellow. Nat. Ord. Rutacea. This is a rather extensive genus, having a wide geographical range, with representatives in most of the tropical countries of the world and in some parts of the temperate regions. The species differ considerably in appearance, some being very large trees, while others are erect or climbing shrubs ; and they are often furnished with prickles on their branches and leaf-stalks. The leaves are alternate and com- pound, either pinnate (either with or without an odd terminal leaflet), trifoliate, or rarely reduced to a single leaflet, the leaflets being usually marked with pellucid dots. Their flowers are small, unisexual, and disposed in variously formed axillary or terminal panicles. The ripe fruits split into two pieces, and con- tain one or two shining black seeds. The fruits of most of the species have an aromatic, pungent taste, like pepper. Those of X. pipe- ritum, a Japanese species, are called Japan Pepper ; and those of X. hostile are the Tej-bul of northern India, where they are used for intoxicating fish. The genus is represented in the United States by a few species. X. Americanum, Northern Prickly Ash, is a prickly shrub with yellowish-green flowers, XIM which appear before the leaves. It is remark- able for its pungent qualities. The bark, when chewed, is said to cure the toothache ; whence one of its popular names, Toothache Tree. X. Carolinianum, the Southern Prickly Ash, is a small tree with very sharp prickles, found on the coast of Virginia and southward. Syn. Zanthoxylum. Xera'nthemum. From xeros, dry, and anthemon, a flower ; alluding to the dry nature of the flower ; which retains its form and color for years. Nat. Ord. Composite. Hardy annuals of the easiest culture, merely requiring to be sown where they are desired to bloom. The flowers, from their peculiar dry character, may be preserved a very long time after they are cut from the plants, and this circumstance has given rise to the Eng- lish name, Everlasting. The several species are natives of the south of Europe and the Levant. Some of them have been under cul- tivation more than two hundred years. Sow through April and May in the open border, or in a hot-bed, and transplant in March. Xerone'ma. From xeros, dry, and nema, a thread; the filaments dry and persistent. Nat. Ord. Liliacem. X. Moorei, the only species, is an elegant and interesting stove-house perennial, intro- duced from New Caledonia in 1878. It grows about two feet high with the leaves clustered at the base of the flower stem, bearing erect, bright crimson flowers, about half an inch long. It is readily increased by seeds or by division of the root-stocks. Xerophy'llum. Turkey's Beard. From xeros, dry, and phyllon, a leaf ; in reference to the dry, grassy leaves. Nat. Ord. Liliacece. A small genus of interesting, hardy, herba- ceous plants, mostly natives. X. asphodeloides, one of the most interesting species, is a native of the Pine barrens of New Jersey and south- ward. It has long, very narrow, bristle- shaped leaves, which form a dense tuft, from which rises a stem bearing a large raceme of showy white flowers in June. They are pro- pagated by seeds or from division, and suc- ceed well in any dry situation. Xero'tes. Named after xerotes, dryness, be- cause of the aridity of the herbage. Nat. Ord. Juncacece. A genus of over thirty species of herbaceous, perennial plants, natives of Australia. They succeed well in light, rich soil and are readily propagated by division. Syn. Lomandra. Ximene'sia. Named in honor of Joseph Ximenes, a Spanish apothecary. Nat. Ord. Composite. These are interesting Mexican plants of which X. enceloides is the best known species. It is now generally included under Verbesina, which see. Xime'nia. Named after F. Ximenes, a Spanish Monk, who wrote on Mexican plants in 1615. Nat. Ord. Olacacece. A small genus of trees or shrubs, one species of which is widely dispersed over the tropics of both the Old and New "World. X. fiori- bundum, the species mostly cultivated, has white, fragrant flowers, and bears an edible fruit. It is called by various names, Seaside, Hog, or Mountain Plum, False Sandalwood, etc. The fruits have an aromatic flavor, but are a little rough to the palate. X. Americana, 500 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS XIP is common on all the south Florida Keys as a spreading shrub, sometimes with stout, nearly prostrate stems ten or twelve feet long, and eight or ten inches in diameter at the ground. Xi'phion. A genus of Iridacece scarcely differing from Iris except in the character of the root- stock, which is a bulb instead of a rhizome. They are natives of the Mediterranean region, Abyssinia, etc., and include several old gar- den favorites. X. Sisyrinchium has been con- sidered the type of a distinct genus (Gynand- iris) ; it has been in cultivation since the days of Gerarde, who calls it Spanish Nut and says that it "is eaten at the table of rich and de- licious persons in sallads or otherwise." X. latifolium (Iris xiphioides) is the English Iris of florists and old writers. Xylophy'lla. A genus of Euphorbiaceoz now in- cluded under Phyllanthus. YUL Xylo'steum. A genus now included under Lo- nicera. Xyrida'ceae. A small natural order of peren- nial, rush-like herbs, growing often in watery places. It includes two species, Abolboda and Xyris, and less than fifty species. Xy'ris. Yellow-eyed Grass. From xyros, acute; the leaves terminate in points. Nat. Ord. Xyridacece. A genus of curious plants, mostly indige- nous, though some are natives of tropical Asia and Africa. They are all sedge-like plants, with narrow radical leaves, and small flower- heads terminating the simple scapes, the yellow petals being very fugacious. They are of no special" interest. X. operculata, intro- duced from Australia in 1804, is the most showy species and is generally cultivated as- a green-house perennial. Y. Y am. The common name of the large, tuber- ous roots of several species of Dioscorea, used as food. See Dioscorea. Yang-Mae. Myrica Nagi, a sub-acid, esculent fruit of Japan and China, somewhat resem- bling the fruit of the Arbutus. It is probably identical with M. integrifolia. Yard Grass. A common name for the genus Eleusine. It is also known as Crab Grass. See Eleusine. Yarrow. See Achillea millefolium. Yaupon. The name of a tea or drink made from the leaves of the Hex Cassine by the North Carolina Indians. Yellow Berries. The dried, unripe berries of Rhamnus infectorius, imported from the south of Europe for the use of dyers. Yellow-eyed Grass. The common name of the genus Xyris, a curious rush-like plant, com- mon in New Jersey and southward. See Xyris. Yellow Iris. Iris Pseudo-acorus. Yellow Jessamine of the Southern States, is Gelsemium sempervirens. Yellow Poccoon. See Hydrastis. Yellow Pond Lily. See Nuphar. Yellow Rattle. See Rhinanthus Crista-galli. Yellow Rocket. Barbarea vulgaris. Yellow Root. See Hydrastis and Xanthorhiaa. Yellow Star of Bethlehem. Gagea lutea. Yellow Star-flower. Stembergia lutea. Yellow Sultan. Centaurea suaveolens. Yellow Trefoil. Medicago lupulina. An excel- lent fodder plant when mixed with grasses. Yellow Weed. Dyer's. Reseda luteola. Yellow Wood. Cladrastis tinctoria, or Virgilia lutea, a small and handsome deciduous tree, with showy white flowers drooping from the ends of its branches, common on rich hill- sides, from Kentucky southward. Yew. See Taxus. Youth and Old Age. A popular name of the- Zinnia, which see. Youth-wort. An English name for Drosera rotundifolia. Yu'cca. Adam's Needle, Spanish Bayonet, Bear Grass. Yucca is the name of the plant in Peru. Nat. Ord. Liliacem. An extensive genus of evergreen plants, closely allied to Dracmna and Cordyline, with leaves somewhat like the Aloe. Y.filamentosa, popularly called Adam's Needle, is common from Virginia southward to Mexico and Cen- tral America, and is a beautiful plant for cemetery or lawn decoration. Many of the species are hardy enough to withstand our winters North, and are desirable plants, as well for the flowers as the foliage. The flow- ers are produced on an erect, branching spike, often six feet high, proceeding from the heart of the plant. It is not uncommon for a single spike to furnish three hundred blossoms,, which are creamy white and very showy. The half-hardy or tender species may be grown in pots or tubs and kept dormant through the winter in a cellar or room free from frost. They grow freely in any soil, preferring a light, sandy one. Y. aloifolia va~ riegata is one of the most beautiful of our green-house, ornamental-leaved plants. Its propagation, which is by cuttings, is slow, and hence it is always a scarce and expensive plant. Y. filamentosa variegata somewhat re- sembles it in its young state, and has* occa- sionally been sold for it ; but it is far inferior. Most of the herbaceous species of the genus seed freely, and are thus rapidly increased. The bruised roots of all the Yuccas were for- merly used very extensively by the natives on the Pacific slope as a substitute for soap, and at the present time it is not an uncommon sight to see the semi-civilized Indian and her Mexican half-sister still using this vegetable soap, which they call " Amole," in the Mexican villages, and as far north as Utah. Yulan. Magnolia conspicua. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 501 z. ZAL Zala'cca. Said to be the name of this genus in the Moluccas. Sometimes spelled Salacca. Nat. Ord. Palmacece. A genus composed of seven or eight species of stemless Palms, natives of Assam and the coast of Burmah and Malacca, mostly growing in large masses in wet places, and forming dense tufts, rendering the jungles almost im- passible. They have long, pinnate leaves, which, being very coriaceous, render them good subjects for decorative purposes. Zaluzia'nskia. Named after Dr. Adam Zaluzi- ansky, a botanist of the seventeenth century. This is now given as the correct name of the genus Nycterinia. Za'mia. From zamia, loss ; in allusion to the barren appearance of the male flowers. Nat. Ord. CycadacecB. An extensive genus of very beautiful and remarkable plants, intermediate between the Ferns and Palms. They are natives of the West Indies, Central America, the Cape of Good Hope and southeastern Africa, where they frequently constitute a conspicuous feature in the vegetation. These extraordi- nary plants are remarkable for their bony fronds or leaves, which are for the most part armed with spines or sharp angles. The spe- cies, Z. horrida, has thorns several inches in length and as hard as horn. Several .of the species are known in cultivation and are objects of much interest. They require a hot- house, and should be grown in sandy loam. Rapid progress in growth is material to the perfect development of the leaves, and this is only secured by heat and moisture. They may be propagated by suckers, but these, with all other Cycads, are now largely imported by firms in New York and other large cities, mostly from Central America, and thus plants are obtained at once from their native habitat that would take many years to grow by the slow processes of artificial propagation. When received they are, of course, in a dor- mant state, without roots or leaves, and should be placed in partially damp moss, in a temperature of 70 degrees, until they begin to grow. Zante Currant. This is not a Currant as is generally supposed from its name, but rather a Grape, the fruit of a variety of Vitis Vinifera, commonly called Black Cornith or Zante Currant. It is a seedless Grape, produced in long, slender bunches; a native of the Levant. Zante- wood. The wood of Chloroxylon Swieti- ana and Rhus Cotinus. Zanthorhi'za. See Xanthorhiza. Zanthoxy'lum. See Xanthoxylum. Zapa'nia. A name applied to that section of the genus Lippia, in which are placed those species which have a flattened calyx and capitate flowers. They are creeping, Verbena- ceous plants, producing an abundance of flowers in umbels in August and September ; natives of South America. Zauschne'ria. Californian Fuchsia. Hum- ming-bird's Trumpet. Named in honor of ZEB M. Zauschner, a German. Nat. Ord. Ona- gracecB. Z. California, the only known species, is a hardy, herbaceous plant, native of California. It is of branching habit, and produces large racemes of Fuchsia-like flowers, bright crim- son and very showy. It makes a handsome pot plant, and is also very showy in the bor- der. Propagated by division or from seed. Introduced in 1847. Ze'a. Maize, Indian Corn. Linnseus named this genus from zao, to live ; in reference to the nutritive properties of the plants. Nat. Ord. Graminacew. Indian Corn, Zea Mays, is unquestionably an American plant, having been found under cultivation by the Indians on the discovery of the New World. It is said to grow wild in some of the West Indian Islands and in Cen- tral and South America. There is only one ascertained species, although numerous va- rieties have been produced. The many varie- ties are so distinct in their general habit of growth, size and shape of the kernel as to raise the question of their being distinct spe- cies, which, however, is not probable. We know of no other plant that so readily adapts itself to circumstances, or one that will so completely change its habit of growth in so short a time. The writer once brought a few ears of Corn from near Quebec, the farthest point north that Corn is known to ripen. The stalks from which the ears were taken were not three feet high, yet each produced two small ears of very hard Corn of excellent quality. This seed was sown in central New York at the same time and under the same conditions as other Corn, only in a separate field. This crop came to maturity in less than sixty days after planting, ready for the har- vest. The next year the best seeds of the crop were sown, in confidence of similar results; but, on the contrary, it adapted itself to the climate, and took the same length of time to grow and ripen as the common sorts, and it also grew to as great a height, which was fully two feet higher than it grew the first year. From that fact it is easy to see what great changes may be brought about by culti- vation. The varieties known as Sweet or Sugar Corn are best suited for use in the un- ripe state. They have been greatly improved in the past twenty years by careful selection, and thousands of acres of these kinds are grown for canning, particularly the variety known as Stowell's " Evergreen." Z. Japon- ica variegata is a beautifully striped white and green variety and is unsurpassed as a "Varie- gated Grass." It requires exactly the same culture as the ordinary Maize ; though, being variegated, its growth is weakened, and, under the same conditions, it grows one-third lower than the ordinary green sorts. It can be used with fine effect for the ' ' back row " or " centre " of large beds in massing. Zebra Grass. See Eulalia Zebrina. Zebra Plant. A common name for Calathea Zebrina. 502 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS ZEB Zebra "Wood. A name given to Myrtus fra- grans and Guettarda speciosa ; also to the genus Omphalobium, which see. Zebri'na pendula. A name proposed for the plant, best-known as Tradescantia tricolor, T. Zebrina or Cynanotis vittata. Zehne'ria. A synonym of Pilogyne, which see. The correct name is now given as Melothria. Zenobi'a. Named after the famous Empress of Palmyra who lived in the third century. Nat. Ord. Ericacece. Z. speciosa is a dense growing shrub, about three feet high when fully grown. The flowers, white and wax-like, are in form like those of Lily of the Valley, and are produced abundantly in loose, drooping clusters in sum- mer. It is a native of the Southern States, and, consequently, not quite hardy. It is known in cultivation as Andromeda Cassinioe- folia and A. speciosa. Zephyra'nthes, Zephyr Flower. From zephyros, the west wind, and anthos, a flower. Nat. Ord. Amaryllidacece. A very beautiful genus of hardy and half- hardy bulbous plants, natives of the Southern States, South America, and the West Indies. The flowers are white, pink and rose-colored, and are produced singly on slender scapes about six inches high. One of the best species is Z. Atamasco, generally known as Amaryllis Atamasco, and in our gardens as Fairy Lily. This species has beautiful pink flowers, which are produced in great abundance during the entire summer. The bulbs may be planted in the open border early in spring, and, with slight protection during winter, they may remain undisturbed a number of years. The bulbs are about one and a half inches in diameter and two inches long, and increase rapidly by offsets. It is a native of the south- ern and southwestern States. Z. Candida, a species with pure white flowers and small, rush-like leaves, is a native of Lima and Buenos Ayres. The bulbs are quite small, and grow in large clusters. It is very free flowering and nearly hardy, and was intro- duced in 1822. Zephyr-Flower. See Zephyranthes. Zi'chya. In honor of Countess Molly Zichy, a noble Austrian lady, fond of botany. Nat. Ord. LeguminoscB. These are handsome green-house climbers, closely related to Kennedya, from which they are chiefly distinguished by having their flowers arranged in whorls on the end of an attenuated foot-stalk. They require plenty of water, both at the roots and over the foliage in dry, hot weather, and a support for their flexile stems. The trellis should be as large as may be conveniently attached to a pot, as they extend over a considerable space. In the autumn the branches should be pruned closely back, and the plants kept torpid through the winter. The several species that constitute this genus are natives of Swan Biver, and were introduced in 1834. Propa- gated by seeds or cuttings. Zingiber. Ginger. The Indian name. Nat. Ord. ScitaminecB. The most important species of this genus is Z. officinale, the roots or rhizomes of which furnish the well-known Ginger of commerce. This plant is believed to be a native of Asia. ZIZ It was naturalized in the West Indies soon after their discovery by the Spaniards; indeed, at so early a period that it is scarcely believed to be an exotic, and is supposed to have been found indigenous on the islands. Acosta relates that a person named Francisco de Mendoza first transplanted it from the East Indies into New Spain, where its cultivation was diligently pursued by the Spanish Ameri- cans to a considerable extent, as, from the testimony of the same author, 22,053 cwt. were exported thence to Europe in 1547. This plant is now extensively cultivated in the West Indies, especially in Jamaica, from whence we receive our main supply. There are several varieties of Ginger known in commerce ; they are, however, of the same species, as the white and black ginger simply indicate a different method of preparation. Ginger is also largely grown in the East Indies and Africa, but not of so good a quality as that of the West Indies. Zingibera'cese. A tribe or sub-order of Scita- minece. Zi'nnia. Named in honor of John Godfrey Zitnn, a Professor of Botany at Gottingen. Nat. Ord. Composite. An extensive genus of hardy annuals, na- tives of Mexico. When first introduced the Zinnia received but little attention, as the flowers were single, the colors not so bright, nor the plant so effective as the double varie- ties now under cultivation. The double vari- eties were first exhibited by Messrs. Vilmorin in Paris, in 1861. They originated in India from the common single Mexican varieties, and the seeds were sent to France in 1858. Great improvement has been made within the last ten years in this flower, and our own flo- rist and seed-growers have been foremost in this work. The finest strains of this flower are now to be had of the seed-growers near New York. Some of the varieties are truly magnificent ; the dull, dingy colors have given place to bright scarlet, clear rose, pure white, orange, canary yellow, etc., and the flowers- are perfect in shape, and evenly imbricated like a Camellia. Zinnias require but little at- tention, and will grow well almost anywhere. For perfection of flower, the seed should be sown early in a hot-bed or the green-house, and onoe or twice pricked out before planting in the open border. Set the plants two feet apart each way, and they will completely cover the ground early in summer. They will commence to flower in June, and remain until killed by frost. The flower lasts a long time, looking cheerful until the seed is quite ripe. The fact of the flowers remaining so long perfect has given the plant one of its common names, " Youth and Old Age." Ziza'nia. The Greek name of Darnel. The mod- ern plants have no relation to the ancient, being natives of America. Nat. Ord. Gramir nacecB. These are native plants. Z. aquatica, a large, reed-like, aquatic plant, is quite common in marshes and on the margins of waters at the South and West, and was for- merly largely collected by the Indians for food. It is a favorite food with wild ducks and other aquatic birds during the fall and winter months, and is a familiar object to sportsmen. A correspondent of the "American AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 503 ZIZ Agriculturist," 1878. Mr. R. Valentine, of Wis- consin, says he has sold a thousand bushels of this Wild Rice during the past five years. The " Agriculturist" says : " It is the thick growth of this Rice that makes the borders of the Delaware such a favorite resort for gun- ners in the Reed Bird season, and elsewhere it attracts numerous ducks. Mr. V. says that he has sent the seeds to nearly every State and Territory, to be planted along water courses to attract wild fowl. It is also sown in artificial fish ponds to afford cover and shade for the young fry, a purpose for which it is especially suited. It succeeds best where there is a muddy bottom, and six inches to two feet of water, and care should be taken to place it where its roots will be covered with water at all times." Syn. Hydropyrum. Zizi'phora. From Zizi, which is said to be the Indian name of the flower, and phoreo, I bear. Nat. Ord. Labiates. A genus of about twelve species of hardy, dwarf, annual herbs, or diffuse sub-shrubs; natives of Central and Western Asia, and the south Mediterranean region. Some three or four species are in cultivation, and are of in- terest in a herbaceous collection. Zi'zyphus. Jujube. Zizouf, in Arabic, is the name of the Lotus. Nat. Ord. Rhamnacece. An interesting genus of plants, inhabitants of both hemispheres. They are all very pretty, and deserve to be grown in every collection. The green-house and hot-house species do well with ordinary treatment. The genus is chiefly characterized by having a fleshy, berry- like fruit, containing a one, two or three- celled stone, with a single flattened seed in each. The species are mostly stiff shrubs, or sometimes small trees with more or less spiny branches, their alternate, three-nerved leaves being furnished with one or two thorny stip- ules. The fruits of several of the species have an agreeable flavor. Z. vulgaris, the best known species, when fully developed attains a height of thirty feet. The fruits of this species are commonly eaten in Europe, both in a fresh and a dried state, and afford the Jujubes of the shops, or rather used to, for they are now chiefly made up of gum and sugar, and a little, tartaric acid, without the Jujubes. The fruits are rather acid when fresh, but when dried they are more agreeable, and are given to allay cough. Perhaps the most useful purpose to which this species can be applied is a hedge plant. Mr. William Smith, the superintendent of the Botanic Garden at Washington, D. C, has been ex- perimenting with it for a number of years, and thinks it has no equal as a hedge plant, and predicts that it is certain to be largely used for that purpose. It is perfectly hardy at Washington, and it is Mr. Smith's opinion that it is likely to prove hardy a great deal farther north. Z. Jujuba, an East Indian species, yields an excellent dessert fruit, and is largely cultivated by the Chinese, who rec- ognize a great number of varieties, differing in the shape, color and size of the fruits. Those of one variety are called Chinese Dates, from their resemblance to that fruit. Z. Lotus, an African species, is one of the plants sup- posed to have yielded the seductive sweet fruits from which the ancient Lotophagi took their name. Another African species, Z. ZYG Baclei, is the Lotus mentioned by Mungo Park as being used for making into bread, tasting like gingerbread, and also for the pre- paration of a pleasant beverage. Z. spina- Ghristi is supposed by some to have furnished the crown of thorns put on our Saviour's head. Propagated by cuttings or from seed. First introduced in 1640. Zomica'rpa. From zomo, a skirt, and karpos, a fruit; the pericarp of the fruit, when ripe, bursts at the bottom and remains covering the seeds like a skirt. Nat. Ord. Aroidew. A small genus whose species are natives of Brazil. The leaves appear before the flowers and are cut into five segments. They make rather pretty, decorative plants, requiring, like all the rest of the family, plenty of water during the growing season. Z. Pithonium is regarded as an antidote in cases of serpent bites. The plants grow about a foot high and are increased by seeds, or by division. Intro- duced in 1860. Zonal Geranium. See Pelargonium. Zygade'nus. From zigos, a yoke, and aden, a gland ; the glands are arranged in pairs. Nat. Ord. Liliaceai. A genus of smooth, somewhat glaucous, herbs, with creeping rhizomes or coated bulbs, grass-like leaves, and panicles of rather large, greenish-white flowers. The best known and most ornamental species are all natives of America, from Maine to Mexico. Propagation may be readily effected by division, or by seed. Zygope'talum. From zygos, a yoke, and pelalon, a petal ; in allusion to the adhesion of the segments of the perianth by their bases in the original species. Nat. Ord. Orchidaceas. A genus of very handsome, free-flowering Orchids, natives of South America. They are terrestfial evergreens, and generally flower during the winter or early spring months, which makes them desirable. The pseudo- bulbs should be well elevated in potting and have plenty of water in the growing season, which is usually from May to September; after which less moisture is required until their season of blooming. They will succeed well in an ordinary green-house, and are propagated by division. Introduced in 1828. Zygophylla'ceae. A natural order of shrubs or herbs, rarely trees ; natives of the Cape of Good Hope, the Cape de Verde Islands and the Levant. Several of the genera have medicinal properties. The species are widely dispersed and are divided into seventeen genera, including Tribulus, Zygophyllum, and Guaiacum. Zygophy'llum. Bean Caper. From zygon, a yoke, and phyllon, a leaf ; alluding to the pairs of leaflets. A genus of trees, shrubs and per- ennial herbs, giving its name to the Nat. Ord. ZigophyllacecB. The species are natives of the Cape of Good Hope, the Cape de Verde Islands, the Levant and Australia. Their very handsome flowers are red or white, generally with a purple or red basilar spot. Several of the species have medicinal properties; the flower-buds of E. Fabago are used instead of capers, and the seeds of E. coccineum are employed by the Arabs in place of pepper. Propagated by cut- tings or by seeds when obtainable. 504 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OP PLANTS GLOSSARY. BOTANICAL nomenclature being in a great measure descriptive, it has been thought that in addition to the etymological notes on the individual genus names already given, a glossary of the designations of the various species and sub-species would be a useful addition to a book of this popular character, as conveying an intelli- gible indication of the distinctive features of the plants under consideration. These species-designations stand in relation to the genera as adjective to noun, and being expressed in Latin, follow the grammatical rules of that language in so far that they must agree with the noun in number, gender and case. For instance : adjectives ending in us take a in the feminine and urn in the neuter, thus : alius, high, masculine; alia, feminine ; altum, neuter. Masculine and feminine adjectives ending in is in the neuter usually end in e, as nobilis, masculine and feminine ; nobile, neuter. Adjectives ending otherwise than these (for instance, as, es, ans, ens, eps, on, etc. ) retain, generally, the same termination for all genders. The designations ending in oides, phylla and folia have been but sparingly used, as they are for the most part self-descriptive ; e. g., anemonoides, anemone-like ; acanthophylla, acanthus leaved ; adiantifolia, adiantum leaved, etc. A A in composition signifies without, as aphylla, without leaves, etc. abbreviata shortened abortiva imperfect abscissa clipped acaulis 'stemless accedens yielding acerba sour acerosa needle pointed aeicularis needle leaved acinacifolia. ..scimetar leaved acniopetala sharp petaled acris biting aculeata spiny acuminata sharp pointed acuta sharp pointed adnata adhering adspersa scattered adunca hooked SBmula rival senea bronzy seranthe air flower 8Bsculi£olia, horse-chestnut leaved. aestivalis summer aestuans glowing affinis related to agglomerata collected aggregata . . gathered together alata winged alba white albicans whitish albinata white marked alcicornis elk's-horn-like alienata foreign alnifolia alder leaved alpestris rocky alveolata honeycombed amabilis lovely amara bitter amblyodon blunt toothed amoena pleasing amplexicaulis . . . stem clasping ampliata enlarged ampullacea flask-shaped anceps two edged androgyna hermaphrodite androus, in words of Greek derivation, refers to the sta- mens ; as, diandrous, two stamened ; polyandrous, many stamened, etc. Anglica English angusta narrow angustifolia . . . .narrow leaved anisata anise scented anisophylla unequal leaved annotina year-old annua annual annulata ringed anopetala erect petaled antherosa large anthered antherotes brilliant antiacantha. .opposite spined apetala without petals aphylla destitute of leaves apiculata, terminating in a short point or tip. apifera bee bearing apiifolia parsley leaved apoda , stemless apodantha . . stalkless flowered appendiculata, having appen- dages. applicata inclined aptera wingless aquatica living in water aquifolia holly leaved arachnoidea cobwebby aranif era spider bearing arbuscula like a little tree arborea tree-like arcuta bent ardens . . glowing arenaria sand loving areolata, marked out into dif- ferent spaces. argentea silvery arguta sharp argyrites silvery argyrophylla silver leaved argyrostigma . . silver spotted arietina ram's-head-like arifolia arum leaved aristata awned armata armed armillata braceleted arrecta erect articulata jointed arundinacea reed-like arvensis field AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 505 aspera rough asperrima very rough assimilis similar assurgens increasing atomaria dotted atrata blackened atrosanguinea dark red atrovirens dark green attenuata thin, narrowed augusta smooth stalked aurantiaca orange aurea golden auriculata eared australis southern axilaris, flowering in the axils of the leaves, azurea blue B baccata berry bearing bacillaris staff-like barbasca bearded barbata bearded basilaris base branching bella handsome bellidiflora daisy flowered betuloides birch-like bi or bis, as a prefix, means twice ; as, bi-articulata, two jointed ; bi-aurita,two eared, etc. bicamerata two-arched bicornis two-horned bidentata double toothed bifida half divided binata. .growing two together bitumenosa pitchy blanda charming borealis northern brachy, from brachys, short; compounded with other Greek roots, as brachybotrya. .short bunched brachynema, having short filaments. brachyodon short toothed brachyphylla short leaved brachypoda short stalked brachypteron. broadly winged bracteata bracted brevi, short; as, brevistylis, short stemmed. brevicaulis short stemmed brevif olia short leaved buccosa inflated bulbifera bulb bearing bullata blistered butryacea buttery buxifolia box leaved c caduca falling off soon csesia. . bluish gay ceespitosa tufted calamelanos. . .beautiful, dark calantha beautiful winged calcarata spurred calcarea growing on chalk calceif ormis shoe-shaped calendulacea . . . marigold-like callosa, furnished with harden- ed or protuberant spots, calophylla. . . .beautiful leaved caloptera beautiful winged calura beautiful tailed calycina, large calyx or cup- shaped, calyculata, having bracts re- sembling an additional calyx calyptrata covered campanulata bell-shaped campy lacantha. curved spined cancellata latticed candicans white Candida white canescens hoary cannabina hemp-like capilare hair-like capitata flowering in heads capreolata tendriled caprina goat-like cardiochhena . . . heart-formed carinata keeled carnea flesh colored carnosa fleshy caryophylla clove scented caryophyllacea. carnation-like casta .... chaste cathartica purgative catopteron . downward winged caudata tailed caudescens stemmed cauliflorus stem flowering cava hollow celatocaulon, concealed stem- med. centeteria many spined cerasoides cherry-like cerefolia chervil leaved cereola waxy fruited cerif era wax bearing cernua drooping cervina stag horned chlorantha. . .greenish yellow chloronema . . . green threaded chlorophora green dye chlorophylla green leaved chromatella yellow chrysantha. . .golden flowered chrysoleuca .. yellowish white chrysophylla . . .golden leaved chrysostachys . . golden spiked chrysostoma. golden mouthed chrysotricha . . . golden haired ciliaris hair fringed ciliolata fringed leaved cincinnata curled cincta girdled cinerea ashy gray cinnabarina vermilion cirrhosa tendriled citrina lemon colored citrosma lemon scented clavata club-shaped claviculata tendriled clypeata buckler- shaped coartata. . . . crowded together coccinea red cochlearis spoon-shaped cochleata shell-shaped codonodes bell bearing coalestis sky blue coelosperma .... hollow seeded coerulea blue collina growing on hills colorata colored colpodes deeply hollowed comans hairy communis common commutata changed comosa tufted, hairy complexa embracing complicata folded together compta decked conchiflora shell flowered concinna neat concolor one-colored conferta cluster flowered congesta crowded conjugata mixed connata joined at the base consobrina related contorta twisted contrayerba vermifuge convoluta rolled together corallina coral flowered cordata heart-shaped cordifolia heart leaved cordigera heart bearing coriacea leathery cornea horny cornigera horn bearing cornuta horned coronata crowned corticicola epiphytal coruscans glittering corymbiflora. cluster flowered corymbosa. . . cluster flowered corynodes helmet flowered costata ribbed crassicaulis . . . thick stemmed crassipes thick stalked crenulata scolloped crinita hairy crispa crispy or curled cristata crested crocata saffron colored crocea saffron colored cruciata cross-shaped cruenta bloody cryptocarpa hidden fruited cucullata hooded cultrata knife-shaped cultriformis knife-shaped cuneif ormis wedge-shaped cupreata coppery curta shortened cuspidata abruptly pointed cyanea blue cyanococca blue fruited cyanophylla blue leaved cyatheaformis cup-shaped cymbif ormis boat-shaped cymosa. . , .flowering in cymes D daedalea adorned daphnites glistening dasycarpa thick fruited dasyphylla thick leaved dealbata whitened debile weak deca, in words of Greek deriva- tion, ten; as, decandrous, with ten stamens; decapet- ala, etc. decipiens deceiving declinata. . turned to one side decora comely decumana huge decurrens, prolonged below the insertion, as in the leaves of the thistle. decussata cross leaved deflexa. . . . turned downward delecta select deltoidea. . . triangular-shaped demissa low 506 HENDEKSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS dendroidea tree-like dentata. . . toothed denticulata finely toothed dependens hanging depressa. . .pressed downward di, in Greek compounds, two ; as, didyma, twin, etc. ; diga- mous, having flowers of two sexes, etc. diaphana transparent dicarpa two-fruited dichora two-colored dichotoma forked dif ormis two-formed diffusa spreading digitata finger leaved dilitata swollen dimidiata halved dimorpha two-formed dioica, bearing female flowers on one plant and male on another. diphylla twin leaved diptacantha double spined diptera two-winged discoidea disk-like discolor two-colored dissecta finely divided dissitiflora . . . distant flowered disticha two-ranked diurna day flowering divaricata, obtusely spread asunder divergens leaning diversiflora . . variable flowered dolabrif ormis axe-shaped dolichocentra . . . long-spurred dolosa deceiving drupacea like a stone fruit dubia doubtful dulcis sweet dumosa low dura hard duriuscula slightly hard E E, or ex, as a prefix, means destitute of; as, ecostata, ribless ; exalbuminous.with- out albumen, etc. ebracteata. .destitute of bracts eburnea ivory-like echinata prickly edentata toothless edulis edible effusa. .very loosely spreading egregia distinguished elata tall elegans beautiful emarginata . . . notched leaved eminens showy ennea, nine ; as in enneandrea nine stamens enneaphylla nine-leaved ensata sword-shaped epherma transient epi, in Greek compounds, upon ; as, epicarp, the outer- most layer of a pericarp, etc. epigsea, growing on or close to the ground, epiphylla. growing upon a leaf equilateral. having equal sides eriantha woolly flowered ericordes heath-like erinacea prickly eriocarpon hairy fruited eriostemon . . woolly stamened erosa bitten erubescens blushing erythrochseta red bristled erythropa red stemmed erythrophsea bright red esculenta edible etiolata. . . blanched euchila beautiful lipped evecta extended exaltata lofty excelsa tall excisa bluntly cut exculta adorned eximia (choice) excellent exorhiza rooting outward exotica foreign exsculpta cut out exserta, protruding beyond, as the stamens out of the corolla, exsurgens rising F falcata sickle-shaped falciformis sickle-shaped falcinella finely hooked fallax deceptive farinacea mealy fasciata banded fascicularis in bundles f astigiata peaked fastuosa prickly stalked felosma heavy smelling fenestralis window leaved f erox fierce, spiny f erruginea rusty filamentosa thready filifera thread bearing filipendula, hanging from a thread. filipes thready fimbriata fringed firma solid fissa divided fistulosa pipe stalked flabellif ormis fan-shaped flaccida weak flagifera rod-shaped flammea fiery flava golden flavescens yellowish flexa bending floralenta slow flowering floribunda many flowered florida flowery fluviatilis, belonging to flowing water. fceniculacea fennel leaved foetida stinking foliolosa slightly leaved foliosa leafy formosa beautiful fossulata grooved f ragrans fragrant frondosa leafy frutescens shrubby fruticosa shrubby fulgens brilliant fulva tawny funesta deadly funifera rope bearing furcata forked furens maddening f urf uracea scaly, mealy fusca brown f uscescens dark brownish fusif ormis spindle-shaped G galeata helmeted geminiflora twin flowered gemmata twin gemmipara bud bearing gibberosa warted gibbosa protuberant gigas giant glabella smoothish gladiata sword- shaped glandulosa bearing glands glauca . . milky white, glaucous glaucina bluish gray glaber smooth glabrata .glabrous glacialis icy gladiata sword-shaped glastifolia wood leaved glaucescens bluish gray glaucophylla gray leaved globosa. . . .round or spherical glomerata clustered glumacea, grass-like - flowered glutinosa adhesive glycyphyllos sweet leaved gracillima most graceful gracilis slender Grseca Greek graminea grassy grandiceps large crested grandis splendid grata pleasing graveolens strong smelling guttata spotted gymnandra. . . .naked an thered gymnocarpa naked fruited gyrosa, turned round like a crook. H hffimatocephala. . . .red headed heematodes bloody hamata hooked harpeodes scimeter-like hastata halbert-shaped hebegyna blunt styled hecistophylla, smallest leaved hepta, the Greek numeral seven, used as a prefix ; as, heptandra, seven-stamened, etc. herbacea, of a soft texture like an herb, heteracantha. . .various spined hetero, in Greek derivatives, unlike ; as, heterocarpus, bearing two kinds of fruit, etc. heterophylla. . .various leaved heteroptera. . .various winged hexa, in Greek derivatives, six; as, hexandra, having six stamens, etc. hexagona six-sided hians gaping hippocrepiformis, horseshoe- shaped. hircina goat scented hirsuta very hairy hirta hairy hirtipes hairy stalked AND GENEKAL HORTICULTURE. 507 hispida bristly histionantha sail flowered holosericea all silky hortensis garden humifusa prostrate humilis dwarf hybrida, a cross breed be- tween individuals of two species. hyemalis winter hygrophylla . .moisture loving hypo, in Greek derivatives, un- der, as hypoglottis, under tongued. hypocrateriformis, salver- shaped, hypogsea, flowers or fruits borne under ground. hypophylla under leaved hystrix bristly I ianthina violet ignea fiery illustris bright imbricata imbricated immarginata . . . not margined immersa, growing wholly un- der water. implexa interwoven insBqualis unequal incana hoary incarnata flesh colored incisa cut inclaudens. never closing incurva bent inward inermis unarmed vners idle inflata swollen inflexa . .abruptly bent inward inf racta broken infundibuliformis, funnel- shaped. innata borne on the apex inops meagre inquinans stained flowered insignis remarkable integrifolia entire leaved introrsa facing inward invisum unseen involucrata, covered with an involucre. involuta rolled inward ionoptera violet winged irrorata bedewed isochroma one colored isophylla equal leaved J Japonica from Japan jubata bearded juglandifolia . . .walnut leaved juncea rush-like L labiata two lipped labrosa large lipped lachnoides woolly lachnopoda downy footed laciniata cut leaved lactiflora milk flowered lacunosa pitted lacustris lake loving laevigata smooth stemmed hevis smooth lagenaria bottle-shaped lanata woolly lanceolata lance leaved lanigera woolly lanipes, woolly stalked lanuginosa slightly woolly lasiandra woolly stamened lasiantha hairy anthered lasioglossa hairy lipped lateritia brick colored latifolia broad leaved laxa loose flowered leguminosa,bearing a fruit like a peapod. leiantha smooth flowered leiorhiza white rooted lenta pliant lentiginosa dusty dotted lepida neat, charming lepidota scaly leptocladis. .slender branched leptoneura slender nerved leptophylla slender leaved leptosepala . . . narrow sepaled leptostachya . . slender spiked leucocarpa white fruited leucocephala white headed leucocheila white lipped leuconeura white veined leucopheea dusky white leucophthalma white eyed leucophylla white leaved leucorhoda white and rose leucoxyla white wooded lignosa woody ligularis strap shaped ligustrina privet-like liliacea lily-like limbata, having a colored or dilated surface, linearis, having the two sides parallel. lineata lined lingualata tongue shaped linifera thread bearing linophylla flax leaved litoralis . . growing on the shore litum daubed lobularis small lobed lonchitis spar like longaeva long lived longicolla long necked longicuspis long pointed longipes long stalked longipila long haired lophantha crest flowered lorata. .strap or thong-shaped lorifolia strap leaved lucida shining ludibunda sportive lunata half-moon-like lupulina hop headed lurida dingy brown lutea yellow lutescens yellowish luxata discolor lyrata lyre-shaped M macradenia large glanded macrandra large anthered macrantha large flowered macrocarpa large fruited macrochila large lipped macrophylla large leaved macroplectron . .long spurred macropoda large footed macropus long stalked macrorhiza large rooted macrospeila .... broad stained macrostachya. . . .large spiked macrura long tailed maculata spotted major (majus) greatest malacophylla soft leaved maleolens strong smelling mamosa nippled manicata, gloved ; covered with a woolly coat, which may be stripped off whole. margaritacea pearly marginata bordered marina sea tnarmorata marbled marmorea spotted mascula male media intermediate megaceras great horned megaphylla large leaved megapotamica big river megasperma large seeded melaleuca black and white melanocaulon . . . black leaved melanococca black seeded melanopus black stalked melanoxylon . . black stemmed meliosa honey scented mellifera honey bearing membranacea, thin and soft like a membrane. micans glittering micranthera small spined micromeris small flowered microphylla small leaved microptera small winged microscypha small capped minax projecting, miniata vermilion minor least mirabilis wonderful miriantha many flowered miriophylla many leaved mitis small mitriformis : mitre-shaped molinifera headed mollis soft mollissima very soft monanthema one-flowered moniliformis, formed like a necklace. monoceras one-horned monophylla one-leaved monoptera single winged monostachya one-spiked montana ... mountain loving mucronata sharp pointed multi, in Latin derivatives, many ; as, multiceps, many branched, etc. multicaulis many stemmed multifida many cleft mundula neat munita armed muralis growing on walls muricata, rough, with short and hard points. musaica mosaic-like muscipula fly catcher muscosa mossy-like mutabilis changeable myriostigma many dotted 508 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS nana dwarf napiformis turnip-shaped nasuta large nosed natans floating navicularis boat-shaped nebulosa clouded nemoralis wood nervosa nerved nidus nest-shaped niger black nigrescens black nitida shining nivea snow white nivealis snowy noctiflora night flowering nodosa knotted Novse Anglire, of New England Noveboracensis New York nucifera nut bearing nuda naked nudicaulis. .. .naked stemmed nutans nodding o ob is used in the composition of Latin technical terms to indicate that a thing is in- verted ; as, obovate, in- versely ovate ; obcordate, inversely cordate, etc. obliqua, referring to shape, unequal sided. oblonga oblong leaved obryzata refined obtusata bluntish occidentalis western ocellata eye spotted ochracea ochre colored ochrantha. .yellowish flowered ochreata, furnished with tubu- lar stipules (ochrea). ochroleuca yellowish white octa, eight, in such words as octagynia, having eight pis- tils; octamerous, the parts in eight, etc. octhodes ;tubercled oculata eyed odora sweet scented odoratissima, very sweet scented, officinalis (belonging to the shop); applied to plants, etc., used in medicine or the arts. oleifera oil bearing olens stinking oleracea esculent (eatable) oligantha few flowered oligophylla few leaved olivaris olive green onusta loaded operculata. covered with a lid oppositifolia . . opposite leaved orbiculata . . circular in outline oreophylla.. .mountain loving orientalis eastern ornata beautiful ornithopoda bird's foot ornithoryncha bird billed ovata egg-shaped ovulata, ovulifera ; bearing seeds or bodies destined to become plants, oxycarpa sharp fruited oxygona sharp angled oxypetala sharp petaled oxyphylla sharp leaved P pachyphylla thick-leaved padifolia cherry leaved paleacea chaffy or scaly pallida pale palmata, divided so as to re- semble a hand. paludosa marsh loving palustris marsh pandurata fiddle-shaped panduriformis . . .fiddle-shaped papilionacea butterfly-like papillaris conical papulosa, bearing small, round projections. papyracea paper white parasitica, living on the juices of other plants. pardalina leopard marked parvifolia small leaved parvula little parvum small patens spreading patula slightly spreading pauciflora few-flowered pavonia peacock-like pectinata comb leaved pedatiflda, cut into lobes, the lateral ones of which do not radiate from the petiole like the rest. pedicellata slightly stalked pedunculata stemmed peliorhynchus . pigeon beaked pellucida. .bright, transparent peltata shield-like pelviformis. .open cup-shaped pendula drooping pennata feather-like pennicillata. . . hair pencil-like pennigera winged penninervis feather nerved penta, in Greek derivatives five ; as pentadactylon, five- fingered. pentagyna five-carpelled pentaphylla five-leaved percussa sharp pointed peregrina foreign perfoliata, when the stem appears to pass through the leaf, perforata . . pierced with holes perigyna. . .borne on the calyx pertusa. . having slits or holes petiolata . . . having foot stalks petreBa growing on rocks phsea dusky phoenicea purple phylla, a leaf, used in conjunc- tion with numerals ; as di- phylla, two-leaved ; tetra- phylla, four-leaved. picta painted pileata, having a cap or lid like the cap of a mushroom. pilifera bearing hairs pilosa hairy pilosiuscula slightly hairy pinifolia pine-leaved pinnata, a compound leaf with leaflets arranged along the sides of a common petiole. pinnatifid pinnately cleft piperita pepper-like pisiformis pea-shaped planicaulis flat stemmed platantha broad flowered platycarpa broad fruited platyclada flat branched platyglossa broad tongued platyphylla broad leaved platyptera broad winged pleiochroma many colored plicata plaited plumbea lead-colored plumosa feathery poculiformis cup-shaped podophylla..foot stalk leaved poly, in Greek compounds nu- merous ; as, polyantha, many flowered, etc. polyacantha many spined polycarpa many fruited polycephala many headed polydactyla many fingered polyliria lily-like polylopha many crested polymorpha many formed polyphylla .many leaved polyrhizon many rooted polystachya many spiked pomeridiana afternoon pomifera, apple, pear, etc., bearing, porporophylla. . .purple leaved porrigens extending potomophylla. . .swamp loving prsecox early preestans exceUing prsetexa bordered prasina grass green princeps magnificent, chief prionophylla saw leaved procera tall procumbens trailing prolifera bulb bearing propendens, hanging forward and downward. propinqua allied pruinosa frosty psittacina parrot-like pterocephala wing headed pteroneura wing nerved pubens downy pubescens downy pubifolia downy leaved pudibunda modest pudica chaste pugioniformis. .dagger-shaped pulchella pretty pulcher showy pulla russet pulverulenta powdery pulvinaris cushioned pumila dwarf punctata. spotted punctilobula dotted lobed pungens stinging punicea reddish brown pusilla small pustulata blistered putens foetid pycnacantha. . .densely spined pygmeea dwarf pyrophyUa fiery leaved AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 509 Q quadrangulata four-angled quadri, in Latin compounds, four; as, quadrifida, four- cleft, etc. quadrifida four-cleft quaternata, succeeding by fours. quercifolia oak leaved quinata, in fives ; in compounds, quinque ; as, quinquefolia, five-leaved, etc. R racemosa clustered radiata, spreading from a com- mon centre. radicans rooting ramentacea scaly ramiflora branch flowered ramosa branched reclinata. . .turning downward recta erect recurvata bent backward reflexa bent backward refracta bent back reniforme kidney-shaped repanda wavy leaved repens creeping replicata folded back reptans creeping reticulata netted retrosa directed backward retusa notched at the apex revoluta rolled back rhizanthera root flowered rhizophora rooting rhizophylla frond bearing rhizophyta creeping rhodantha rose flowered rhodocineta red bordered rhomboidea . . like a rhombus rigens stiff rigida stiff ringens gaping riparia river bank rivalis brook loving rosacea rosy rostrata. .*. beaked rotata wheel-shaped rotundifolia round leaved rubella reddish rubescens red rubiginosa rusty rubioides madder-like rubra red rubrovenosa red veined rufa brownish red ruf escens rusty colored rufinervis red veined rugiloba.. . ...wrinkled, lobed rugosa wrinkled runcinata, saw - toothed, the teeth turned backwards, rupestris . . . growing on rocks rupicola rock loving ruthenica Russian rutilans .reddish s saccata bagged saccifera bag bearing sagittata . . arrow-head shaped salicif olia willow leaved saligna willow-like saltatoria dancing sambucifolia elder leaved sancta sacred sanguinea bloody sapida savory sarcodes flesh-like sarmentosa, producing run- ners sativa cultivated saxatilis growing on rocks scabra rough scabrida rough scandens climbing scariosa tough and dry sceptra princely schidigera spine bearing schizantha cut flowered schizodon cut toothed schizopetala cut petaled scintillans glistening sclerocarpa hard fruited sclerophylla hard leaved scuta shielded scutellata salver-like secunda side flowering segeta cornfield segregata kept separate semi, in Latin compounds, means half, as semi-amplexi- caulis, half stem clasping; semi - cordata, half heart- shape (divided lengthwise) semperflorens . . ever flowering sempervirens evergreen senilis aged looking sepia hedge septemloba seven lobed sepulta enclosed sericea silky serotina, flowering or fruiting late serratifolia saw-toothed sessilis stalkless setacea bristly setigera, covered with bristles setulosa bristly sex, six, as sexangulare, six- angled, etc. signata distinct simplex simple simplicicaulis, slightly branched. sinuata wavy smaragdina emerald green sobolifera, producing young plants from the root. somnifera sleep causing sororia sisterly sparsa scattered spathulata spatula-shaped speciosa showy spectabilis showy speluncee cavern sphacelata, scorched or with- ered, sphasrocephala. .round headed spicata borne on a spike spicigera ear bearing spiloptera spotted winged spinif ex thorny spinosa spiny spiralis spiral spuria counterfeit squamosa scaly squarrosa, when scales, small leaves or other bodies spread rigidly at right angles. staurophylla cross leaved stellata star-like stenopetala . . . narrow petaled stenophylla narrow leaved stenoptera .... narrow winged sterilis barren stigmatica dotted stigmosa branded stipitata short stalked stolonifera, producing creep- ing roots and shoots. straminea straw colored striata striped stricta upright strigosa, bearing little, rigid, unequal hairs. strobilacea cone fruited strumosa, swollen on one side only. suaveolens sweet smelling sub, as a prefix, means some- what or slightly; as sub- cordate, slightly heart shaped, etc. suberosa cork barked subhirtella . . somewhat hairy subulata awl-shaped succedanea, coming in the place of another, succisa, as if cut off at the end. suffruticosa, low and shrubby, or shrubby at the base. sulcata grooved surculosa suckered suspensa hanging down sylvatica from the woods T tseniosa banded leaved tanacetifolia tansy leaved tardiflora late flowering taxifolia yew leaved tecta concealed tectora roof loving tenacissima very tough tenax . tough tenella small tenuifolia slender leaved tergeminata thrice twin terminalis, belonging or re- lating to the summit. ternata growing in threes tesselata, variegated by squares, testacea, of a pale brown color tetra, in Greek compounds, four ; as, tetrastichous, with four vertical ranks, etc. tetracantha four-spiked tetracopis f our-bladed tetragona four-angled tetrandra f our-anthered tetraspis four-horned thalamiflora, with the sta- mens, etc., inserted in the receptacle. theifera tea bearing thurifera incense bearing thyrsiflora . . .panicle flowered tibicinis cowhorn-like tigrina tiger spotted tinctoria colored (dyer's) tomentosa, densely and closely hairy, torta twisted 510 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS torulosa slightly twisted toxica very poisonous tri, in compound words, three ; as, triangulata, three-an- gled, etc. triacanthos three-spined trichodes hair-like trichosantha. . .hairy flowered trichotoma, branches divided in threes. tricolor . . . . : three-colored tricuspidata three-spined tridactyla three-fingered trifasciata three-banded trifida divided in three triflora three-flowered triglochin three-hooked triphylla three-leaved tripteron three- winged triquetrum three-sided tristis sad truncata blunt, as if cut off tuberculata warted tuberosa producing tubers tubif era tube bearing tubulosa tubular tunicata coated turbinata top-shaped turgida — swollen, puffed up IT uliginosa swamp loving umbellata. flowering in umbels umbraculifera, umbrella bear- ing, umbilicata, depressed in the centre, like the navel. umbonata, having a top in the centre like that of the an- cient shield. umbrosa shade loving uncinata hooked undulata waved unguiculata bearing claws uni, in Latin compounds one ; as, unifoliata, one-leaved, etc. uniflora one-flowered unilateralis one-sided unita joined urceolata pitcher-shaped urophylla caudate leaved urostachya tall spiked ustulosa scorched utilis useful utriculata bladdery V vaginata sheathed valida strong varia variable varicosa, swollen here and there. variolosa variegated velutina, velvety, covered with very fine and close, soft, velvety hairs. venenata poisonous venosa veined venti'icosa inflated venusta charming vera true verecunda modest vernalis spring vernicosa wax bearing verrucosa warty versicaria bladdery versicolor. .. .various colored verticillata whorl leaved vesca edible vesiculata, as if composed of small bladders. vespertilionis bat-like vespertina. .evening flowering vestita clothed vexillaria . . having a standard villosa, long, shaggy, with long, loose hair, viminacea, bearing long, flex- ible twigs. viminalis twiggy virens vigorous virgata twiggy virginalis pure viridis green viscosa clammy viticulosa, producing small suckers or stolons. vitifolia vine leaved vittata striped vivipara, bearing young plants in the place of flowers and seeds. volubilis twining voluta rolled leaved vulgaris common X xanthina yellow xanthocoma yellow haired xantholeuca. .yellowish white xylocarpa wood fruited z Zelanica from Ceylon PRACTICAL HINTS TO AMATEURS AS TO SEASONABLE WORK IN THE Greenhouse, flower, fruit and vegetable Garden. THROUGHOUT this work we have been particular in stating the season at which the different gardening operations should be performed, still it may be of service to many to suggest, briefly, in calendar form, the work that may be per- formed during each month of the year. The dates given are mostly for the Eastern and Middle States. The reader must vary operations, earlier if in the South, later if in the North. JANUARY. Gbeen-hotjse and Window Plants. — As this is usually the coldest month of the year, and also that in which we have the least sun- shine, particular attention must be paid to air- ing, watering, syringing, etc. But little venti- lating need be done ; but when it does become necessary to do it, caution must be used. Be careful to raise the ventilating sash only so high that the heated air from the green-house will be able to drive back the outer air to such an extent as not to chill the plants. For exam- ple, occasionally, after a very cold night, where severe firing has been necessary to keep up the required temperature, say to sixty degrees, it happens that the sun comes out bright during the following day, so that by noon, or before, the temperature may be at a hundred degrees inside the green-house, though outside it may be nearly at zero. In such case the raising of the sashes an inch or two will rapidly lower the temperature of the green-house, so that an hour or so of such ventilating would be all that is required. As little fresh air can be given, insects are to be watched this month closely. By the use of fire-heat a dry atmosphere will be created, in which the Bed Spider luxuriates. Nothing answers so well for its destruction as copiously syringing the plants at night, and splashing the paths with water, as it cannot exist to an injurious extent in a moist atmos- phere. The Aphis, or "green fly," must also be destroyed, or it will soon cause great injury to the plants. (See Insects.) The leaves of Win- dow Plants should be sponged often to keep the dust from filling up the pores of the leaves. Tepid water should be used, with a little soap or Fir-tree oil dissolved in it, and any plant, small enough to handle, that shows signs of red spider or other insect enemy, if dipped in water heated to 140 degrees, will be instantly cleansed without having received the least in- jury from the bath. Plants should be occasion- ally turned round to prevent their growing one- sided. Hyacinths and other bulbs which were placed in boxes or pots last autumn may now be brought to the light, the best rooted and most forward will give the earliest flowers. They should be well supplied with water, and these, as well as all soft wooded, free-growing plants, will be benefited by an occasional watering with liquid manure. The plants to bloom this month are Primulas, Cinerarias, Cyclamens, Bouvar- dias, Roman Hyacinths, Early Tulips, Callas, Azaleas, Camellias, Carnations and many others. Such plants as Agaves, Echeverias and other succulents should be kept dry and allowed all the sun possible. Floweb Gabden. — Though at this season of the year there is but little chance to do much in the flower garden, yet it is an excellent time to make any necessary improvements or altera- tions before the hurry of spring sets in. Such work as grading or draining may be pushed forward. Now is, also, a good time to remove all stones, roots, etc., which, when practicable, may be utilized in forming a rock-garden, or, if piled up picturesquely in a heap and covered in the spring with vines, creepers, etc., form often quite an attractive adjunct to a garden or lawn If not already done, all hardy Vines, Shrubs, Evergreens, etc., will be much benefited by a liberal top-dressing of well-rotted manure. Fbtjit Gabden. — Pruning or mulching can be done if the weather is such that the workman can stand out. No plant is injured by being pruned in cold weather, though the pruner may be. Vegetable Gabden. — In the Northern States little can be done in this department this month, except to prepare manure, bean- poles and pea-sticks, and get sashes, tools, etc., in working order ; but in sections of the coun- try where there is but little or no frost, the hardier kinds of seeds and plants may be sown and planted, such as Asparagus, Cabbage, Cau- liflower, Carrot, Leek, Lettuce, Onion, Parsnip, Peas, Spinach, Turnip, etc. In any section where these seeds can be sown in the open ground, it is an indication that hot-beds may be begun for the sowing of such tender vegeta- bles as Tomatoes, Egg and Pepper Plants, etc., though, unless in the extreme Southern States, hot-beds had better not be started before the first of February. 512 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS FEBRUARY. Green-house and Window Plants. — As the days begin to lengthen, indoor plants seem to take a fresh start and begin to grow and flower vigorously. Many of the sorts will require re- potting; Gesneras, Gloxinias, Achimenes, and kindred tubers, may now be looked over, and a portion of them potted and placed in a warm corner to start for early flowering. Old Fuchsias, Geraniums, Abutilons are now sending forth strong, young shoots, which may be propagated as soon as they are large enough to handle. Annuals for early summer blooming, such as Petunias, Verbenas, Cobsea scandens, Cannas, Castor Oil Beans, Centaureas, etc., should now be sown in shallow pans or boxes and trans- planted as soon as fit to handle. Tuberoses for early flowering, and Dahlia roots, if put in a gentle bottom heat, will now start, the former to be potted off as soon as the young roots appear, and the young shoots of the latter propagated in the usual way. The general directions as to venti- lation, cleanliness, etc., for January apply to this month; insects being rigidly kept down, and sufficiency of water with an occasional supply of liquid manure being given to such plants as begin to grow freely. Flower Garden. — But little can be done here, only to follow the instructions given last month. Prune deciduous trees and shrubs, and give the lawn and grass plots a good top-dressing of well-rotted manure, or what is better, of bone- meal ; there are no weed seeds in the latter. Fruit Garden. — In the Northern States, little can be done except to prune any trees or vines that have not yet been seen to, and to clear the limbs of any moss, fungus or insects that may be harboring under the old bark. La many Southern States this will be the best month for planting fruit trees and plants of all kinds, particularly Strawberries, Raspberries, Blackberries, Pear and Apple, while Grape-vines will do well a month later. Vegetarle Garden.— Leaves from the woods, horse-manure, and any litter that may be col- lected, should be turned over several times and thoroughly mixed together, so as to get it sweet- ened preparatory to forming hot-beds (see Heat- ing by hot-beds) on which Early Cabbages, Let- tuce and Badishes may be sown as soon as the frame or hot-bed is in condition. It is now the proper season to force Asparagus, Rhubarb, Sea-kale, etc., as they will (being so out of sea- son) give great satisfaction to many epicures. As Parsley seed germinates but slowly some should be sown for early planting. Mint may also be had by putting a few plants in the hot- bed. Manure that is to be used for the crops should be turned and broken up as fine as possi- ble ; for the more completely manure of any kind can be mixed with the soil, the better will be the crop, and, of course, if it is dug or plowed in in large, unbroken lumps, it cannot be prop- erly commingled. MARCH. GREEN-HOUSE AND "WINDOW PLANTS.— As the spring advances, and more light and sunshine prevail, plants soon begin to show the stimulus by vigorous and rapid growth. It is necessary, therefore, to examine all plants that are grow- ing vigorously, and, when deemed necessary, shift into larger-sized pots. (See Potting.) The propagation of plants such as Alternantheras, Coleus, Achyranthes, etc., to supply the flower garden may also be continued with vigor, and those propagated last month should be growing luxuriantly, and be shifted into larger pots as required. They must not be allowed to suffer for water or moisture, and will always show the benefit of being well syringed or watered over- head. On fine days air must be admitted freely to all plants, carefully avoiding cold draughts. Insects of all sorts must, of course, be kept down, and copious waterings of manure-water will be advantageous to all plants likely to get pot-bound. House plants should be kept as near the glass as convenient, and should be turned round frequently to prevent them from becoming one-sided. All climbers, such as Bignonias, Cissus, Passion-flowers, etc., planted in tubs or in the borders of the green-house or conservatory, should have a liberal top-dressing of rich compost ; all the old top soil possible removed before it is applied. Flower seeds sown last month will be large enough to prick into shallow boxes of good soil as opportunity may offer, and may be kept there until ready to plant in the open border. Cannas may now be divided and potted, also Colocasias and other ornamental Arads ; Lemon Verbenas, Hibiscus, Hydrangeas, and other plants that have been kept dormant all winter, top-dressed or re- potted, and started to grow for summer use. Flower Garden. — All planting and pruning of vines, shrubs or trees must be finished as soon as possible this month, and vines and climbers that require it tied up. Any removal of shrubs to prevent overcrowding, or trim- ming in overgrown specimens, must be attended to without delay ; single specimens are always admirable objects. The herbaceous border may be re-arranged, the rock-garden overhauled, and walks and roads attended to, with new gravel, etc., whenever the weather will admit, and thoroughly rolled. The bulb beds should be gradually uncovered, lawns raked off and top- dressed (if not done before) with rich, well- rotted manure, bone-meal, or similar fertilizer; new lawns may also be sown if soil is dry enough, and flower-beds dug up, to have them in good order for the spring planting, and all improve- ments, such as grading, draining, sodding, etc., finished up as soon as possible. Fruit Garden. — Planting may now be done safely in light, dry soils in many sections, still it is not advisable to plant before the ground is dry. It is bad to do so even in light soils, but it is utter destruction in stiff and clayey ones. Great care should also be exercised that the roots are not frozen when exposed, for although a tree or plant will receive no injury -when its roots are in the soil, should a frost come after planting, yet the same amount of freezing would greatly injure the plant if the roots were uncov- ered and exposed. Thousands of trees and plants fail every year from this cause. They are exposed for sale in our markets with no AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 513 protection to the roots ; even the experienced purchaser rarely has sufficient knowledge to be certain whether the roots of a tree have been injured by being frozen or dried up by the cold winds of March. Vegetable Gabden. — Early Peas, Onions, Parsnips and the various vegetable seeds recom- mended for the Southern States in January can- not be planted too soon after the ground is in working order. Hot-beds must now be started, and Tomatoes, Egg Plants, Sweet Potatoes, etc., forwarded for early planting. In the more Southern States the tender sorts of vegetables, such as Melons, Okra, Egg Plant, Squash, Sweet Potatoes, Tomatoes, etc., may be planted as soon as the weather is settled. APRIL. GBEEN-HOtTSE AND WINDOW PLANTS. — Plants of every description will now require increased water and ventilation, and on fine days a slight shading to prevent the sun from burning the fo- liage. (See "Shading.") Due attention must also be paid to shifting into larger pots, when neces- sary, and also to increase the space, when prac- ticable, by putting the hardier sorts out in cold- frames. It is better to throw away a few of the older and less desirable plants now, than to risk their becoming weak and spindling by overcrowd- ing. Cuttings may still be made of Verbenas, Coleus, Petunias, Ageratums, Achyranthus and all other plants intended for summer decoration ; the more advanced plants should be topped back to make them sturdy and bushy. Tender annuals may also be sown and pricked out in boxes or pots and placed in cold-frames for later use. On the first appearance of insects, measures must at once be taken to exterminate them, es- pecially on Calceolarias and Cinerarias, which will now be coming into flower, and are the most showy and useful plants at this season. (See " Insects.") See that nothing suffers for want of water and keep the atmosphere moist by syringing freely. Floweb Gabden. — This is a busy month in the flower garden. Bulbs, and all tender plants that have been covered for protection during winter, may now be uncovered and the other beds forked over and put in order to receive the spring-blooming plants such as Pansies, Daisies, Forget-me-nots, Polyanthus, etc., which may be planted out from the cold-frames as soon as the weather appears settled, thus making room to harden off the more forward of the bedding plants. All Roses should now be pruned and tied up, and syringed occasionally with tobacco, soap or some other insecticide, to pre- vent the attack of the rose-slug next month ; this insect is easily destroyed while young. All vines and creepers on walls or screens should be pruned and tied up ; herbaceous plants, such as Dielytras, Phloxes, Helianthus, Delphiniums, etc., may be divided and replanted, and a plant- ing of Gladioluses for early flowering made. This is also an excellent season to sow Grass seed to improve the lawn, or to sow for new lawns, following it by a slight top-dress- ing of bone meal or lawn fertilizer and a good rolling to level it thoroughly for the mower. Fbuit Gabden. — All new plantations of Grape vines, Strawberries, Raspberries, Blackberries, etc., should be made without delay, and those that have been laid down during winter uncov- ered and tied up to stakes or trellises. Straw- berries that have been covered up by leaves or straw should be relieved around the plant, leaving the covering to act as a mulch and keep the fruit clean. Vegetable Gabden. — Whenever the soil is in good condition no time should be lost in sow- ing the hardier sorts of vegetable seeds, such as Cabbages, Beets, Parsnip, Lettuce, Onions, Parsley, Peas, Radishes, Spinach, etc. ; this should be done in all cases by the middle of the month, wherever practicable, for if these varie- ties of vegetables are delayed until the hot weather in May, they will not be so early, nor will they produce such good crops. Asparagus and Rhubarb should also be uncovered, the beds forked over lightly and fresh plantations made when necessary. All Potatoes, especially those for early use, must also be planted as soon as possible, and small sowings made of Thyme, Marjoram, Sage, Fennel, Dill and other herbs, without which no garden is complete. Cabbage and Cauliflower plants, Onion sets, Shallots, etc., should also be planted as soon as the weather is favorable. Tomatoes, Egg-plants, Peppers and other tender plants may still be sown in the hot-bed, Sweet Potatoes put in to produce sprouts to plant out next month, and a few Cucumbers in hills to remain there and come in for early use. MAY. Gbeen-hottse and Window Plants. — Many of the plants so carefully wintered over will now be in full bloom, and except on very cold nights firing in the green-house may be dispensed with ; still, during the first of the month care must be exercised in ventilating, on account of the cold winds. It will now be necessary to partially shade the glass, which may be done either by " burlaps " on rollers overhead, or more cheaply and simply by syringing the glass, outside, with a thin mixture of white lead and naphtha, spattering it on more thickly every week or two as the sun grows stronger. (See " Shading.") Azaleas will now be at their best and will fully repay the care bestowed on them. As soon as they are done blooming they should be pruned into shape, and after being kept close and moist for a short time till they break, re- potted for next season, and about the end of the month placed with Camellias and kindred plants in a slightly shady place, out-of-doors, where they may be freely syringed and attended to during summer. The various plants that have done duty during winter should now be looked over; those that do best in pots repotted, while many will recuperate better if planted in the open border for the summer. All climbers, such as Cissus, Passifloras, Steph- anotis, Allamandas, should be tied up and kept in order, and syringed freely every day to keep them clean and healthy, while the many varieties of Achimenes, Gloxinias, Bego- 614 HENDEKSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS nias, etc., with Caladiums, Crotons, Dracaenas, Marantas, etc., will keep the green-house gay till warm weather sets in. Poinsettias, Catalonian Jessamines and other plants in- tended for winter blooming should now be re- potted, and Calla Lilies that have done flowering placed in a shady place, where the pots can be turned on their sides and left to dry off until time to repot them in fall. Flower Garden. — The vacant beds in the flower garden should now be in order to receive the plants intended for them, which, with the exception of the more tender sorts, may be planted as soon as the weather is settled. For- get-me-nots, Pansies, Daisies, Polyanthus and other spring flowering plants are now at their best, and if they have been judiciously planted will be quite a feature in the garden. The rock-garden is also very interesting at this season, as it has been for some time, the various early plants, such as Hepaticas, Anemones, Snowdrops and other early bulbous plants, being most interesting. New lawns or grass plots if not sown before, should be sown at once ; none but the best selected seed should be used for this purpose. Permanent lawns should be mown and rolled as occasion requires, edges trimmed nicely and all flower beds kept free of weeds. Annuals for early flowering that have been sown in the frame or green-house may now be planted out, and such hardy sorts as Sweet Alyssum, Mignonette, Candytuft and Phlox Drummondii sown in the open border. Cuttings of Chrysanthemums if started now will make fine plants for fall flowering. As soon as Hyacinths, Tulips, etc., are done flowering, if their room is wanted, they should be carefully taken up and heeled in, in some out-of-the-way corner where they may ripen off their bulbs. Fruit Garden. — Many of the smaller fruits may yet be planted, though with less prospect of success than if done earlier. As the various insect pests make their appearance, they must be checked at once ; a free application of to- bacco dust mixed with Persian powder, dusted on liberally, will be found very efficacious. It is still better, however, used as a preventive ; for if the insects once get a foothold they are hard to dislodge. The hoe and cultivator must be kept constantly at work, not only to keep down weeds, but to loosen and aerate the soil. Vegetable Garden.— As the ground gets warm, seeds of all the more tender vegetables, as Cucumbers, Melons, Squash, Corn, Lima Beans, Okra, etc., may be sown, and Cabbage, Cauliflower, Lettuce, etc., from the earlier sow- ings transplanted. Toward the end of the month, if the weather looks settled, Tomatoes, Egg-plants, Peppers, Sweet Potatoes, etc., should be planted out, and succession crops of Peas, Beans, Corn, Lettuce and other vegeta- bles planted every week or two. Field crops, such as Mangels, Carrots, Parsnips, etc., should also be sown and all necessary work promptly attended to JUNE. Green-house and Window Plants. — The bulk of the bedding and other plants being now planted out or placed out-of-doors, the green- house may be utilized to grow such tropical plants as may be desired during the summer months. If kept moist and well shaded, fine specimens of Dracaenas, Palms, fancy Cala- diums, Ferns, Crotons, etc., will render it very attractive. A few of the smaller growing Nym- pheeas or other water plants grown in tanks or under other appropriate conditions, will give it additional attraction during the season. All plants that require it should be repotted, and, with few exceptions, should be pinched back to make them branching and stocky. Others that require it may be trained and made to grow in any desired form. Syringing, both outside and indoors, should be regularly at- tended to, to keep down insects ; and the plants are much benefited by the pathways being sprinkled occasionally with water. Flower Garden. — All the spring flowering plants have now been removed, and their places filled with those plants already selected to give the most desirable results during the season. Cannas, single and double Dahlias, Asters, Mari- golds, Zinnias, etc., may now be planted ; they will bloom until frost, and are exceedingly useful for cutting from. Staking and tying up strong growing plants should always be attended to — neglect in this matter often ruins the appear- ance of the garden for the season. Verbenas, Petunias and plants of similar habit should be pegged down sothatthe beds may be thorough- ly covered. Lawns should be mown frequently, the grass edgings trimmed, and walks frequent- ly rolled, if necessary, and kept in good order. Grass Seed for new lawns may yet be sown. Fruit Garden. — We cannot too strongly en- force the necessity of thinning out the fruit of Apples, Pears, Peaches, etc., which have set their fruit thickly. By so doing much finer fruit is produced, the flavor is much superior, and the weight at least equal. This is equally true of Grape-vines or any other fruits that may have set too thickly. All small fruits are much benefited by having a mulching of some sort placed around them, Strawberries in particular ; if they have been overlooked, the cut grass from the lawn is an excellent material to keep the fruit from getting sanded and spoiled by heavy rains. Judicious summer pruning, or pinching out the centre of the young growth, at this season, will not only keep the young trees in better shape, but make them more fruitful. Vegetable Garden. — During this, the busi- est month, all growing crops need constant attention. Thin out all plants that require it, and keep all crops clean by weeding and hoeing. At this season weeds are very apt to get a strong foothold unless they are carefully watched. Keep the hoe and rake going; a man will hoe and rake over six times the sur- face of soil when the weeds are quite small that he would do if the weeds were six inches higher. A succession of Corn, Beans, Cucum- bers, Beets, Lettuce, Okra, Martynias for pic- kles, should now be planted, and Lima Beans, both pole and dwarf, as soon as the soil is warm enough. Sweet Potatoes will yet do well if planted in a suitable location. If Tomatoes are desired to be handsome fruited and fine flavored, they should be trained up to stakes or trellises. Attend to Cabbage Worms and look out for Potato Bugs. (See " Insecticides.") AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 515 JULY. Green-house and Window Plants. — At this season a copious supply of water must be given, both at the root and overhead. In the green-house especially, sprinkle the paths and benches in the evening to keep up a moist atmosphere during the night. Use every effort to keep everything clear of such insects as Green Fly and Red Spider. If the house is kept shaded, almost all so-called stove plants can be grown successfully in the green- house during the summer months. The plants from the green-house that may have been plunged out-doors must be watched when they require repotting; and where the roots have run through the pots, they should also be occasionally turned round, to break them off ; for if this is not done now, it would seriously injure the plant when taken up in the fall, if the roots have run through the pot and deep into the soil. Many of them will require to be pinched back occasion- ally to keep them bushy, and Chrysanthemums for winter blooming topped in and turned around. Carnations, Bouvardias and other plants for winter blooming should be pinched back. Azaleas, Oranges, Camellias and plants of a like character will be much improved by being syringed every clear evening, care being taken at the same time that they are not over- watered. Floweb Garden. — The usual routine of mowing, weeding, etc., must be attended to, all irregular growth trimmed back, the various early flowering shrubs pruned (see "Pruning "), and the flower beds trimmed and kept neat. Nothing gives such an air of neatness and beauty to a well kept garden as a well kept lawn, and neatly kept, well rolled walks. The rock-garden must also be kept in good order ; all weeds removed, and any plants that are growing too large or strong, shortened back. Dahlias, Roses, Gladioluses, as well as many herbaceous perennial and annual plants, will now require staking. Be careful to proportion the size of the stake to that of the plant, and do not tie it too tightly. Stakes painted green look best, and the square are nearly as good as the round ones, and much cheaper. Give the Cos- mos, lovely for its feathery foliage and single, Dahlia-like flowers, a long stake, and, once in a while, run a spade down near its roots to check its rampant growth and throw it into flower; it will well repay the trouble. All vines and creepers should be trained up, and all super- fluous growth pruned away. If the weather is moist it will yet do to sow Grass Seed for new lawns. Fruit Garden. — As recommended last month, thin out all Apples, Peaches, Pears, etc., which have set their fruit thickly, as by so doing an equal weight is secured, much finer fruit and superior flavor. Summer pruning is still useful ; a little practice will soon show its advantage. If there are any signs of mildew on the Grape-vine leaves, dust them over with dry sulphur, choosing a still, warm day. The fruit will now be gathered from the Strawberries; and if new beds are to be formed, the system recommended of layering the plants in small pots is the best. (See " Strawberries.") Vegetable Garden.— Succession crops of Beans, Corn, Cucumbers, Lettuce, etc., may still be sown, and in some sections of the coun- try Ruta-baga Turnips for the main winter crop. Cabbage, Celery and Cauliflower should also be planted, more especially Celery for a main crop. Tomatoes should be kept tied up to stakes or trellises, and the fruit well exposed to the light. Sweet Potatoes should also be held up, and the vines moved occasionally to prevent their rooting at the joints. Cucumbers for pickles should now be sown, and Endive for fall use. (See directions given under these sep- arate heads.) AUGUST. Green-house and Window Plants. — Nearly all that is necessary during this month is to follow the instructions given for July. Hanging Baskets, Vases, etc., require constant attention, and all climbers and other plants should be syringed freely, and kept clear of insect pests. Plants intended for winter flowering should be forwarded by being repotted, and kept bushy by being pinched back occasionally. Primulas, Calceolarias, Cinerarias, etc., should be sown, and preparations made for propagating such plants as may be required for winter or spring flowering. Chrysanthemums must not be neglected, as the pots are now full of roots and will require water twice or three times a day. Cuttings struck at this season make excellent dwarf plants for the window or green-house, generally flowering a week or two later than the old plants. All such work as painting, glazing, seeing to boilers, etc., is now in order, and should be attended to, before the press of autumn work comes along. Flower Garden. — Here, as in the green- house, the routine of work is the same as last month. No pains should be spared to keep the garden beautiful; all dead leaves and flowers should be removed and the edgings and walks kept neat and clean. The grass should be rolled frequently, and mown as often as necessary ; in very dry weather it may be advisable to water it frequently to keep it from becoming parched and brown ; one of the improved lawn sprinklers is excellent for this purpose. Tea and other autumn flowering Roses will be benefited by an occasional supply of manure water; all tall growing, herbaceous and other plants should be staked up, the soil loosened occasionally, and all weeds kept down. Sow Grass Seed for new lawns if not too dry. Fruit Garden. — During the early part of the month summer pruning may still be practiced with advantage. Spring-planted Strawberries, and also those that have fruited, will now be making " runners " or young plants freely. All runners should be kept cut off close to the old plant when not wanted for new plantations, so that the full force of the roots is expended in maturing the " crowns " or fruit buds for the next season's crop. New plantations may also be made — the sooner they are planted, the heavier the next season's crop will be. (See "Straw- berries.") Cut away the old stems of Raspberries 516 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS and Blackberries that have borne their fruit, and thin out the young shoots to three or four canes to each hill or plant. If tied to stakes and topped when four or five feet high, they will make stronger canes for fruiting next year. Vegetable Gabden. — All planted crops should be hoed deeply and kept free from weeds. Such herbs as are now in flower may be dried in a shady place for winter use. Ruta-baga Tur- nips sown last month will require thinning, and the various soft varieties, such as Bed Top Strap Leaf, White Globe, White Egg, etc., and Radishes for winter use, may be sown up to the end of the month. Onions will in most sections now be ready for harvesting. This condition will be known by the tops becoming yellow and falling down. They are best dried by being placed in some dry shed in thin layers. (See " Onions.") SEPTEMBER. Gbeen-hotjse and Window Plants. — To- ward the end of the month, in many sections of the country, the various green-house plants will require to be housed, care being taken to keep them as cool as possible during the day. Plants that have been plunged out during sum- mer will require to be examined as to drainage, and receive a top-dressing of good, rich soil; many of them may require shifting into larger pots, though this should have been attended to last month. Cuttings of plants required for next season's use should now be made, as fall root- ed cuttings generally bloom more freely than winter struck plants, and are preferable to old plants. This is true of what is known as bed- ding plants, such as Geraniums, Fuchsias, Ver- benas, Heliotropes, etc. ; but with Roses and other plants of a woody nature, larger plants are usually the best. Roman Hyacinths, Early Tulips and other Dutch bulbs should be planted as soon as received, especially for an early crop, and seeds of Pansies, Daisies, Mignonette, Sweet Aiyssum, Candytuft, etc., should now be sown, and Chrysanthemums should not be pinched back later than the first of the month. Floweb Gabden. — The general routine of work recommended for last month will suffice for this. Lawns, grass edgings and walks kept neat and tidy, improve the appearance of the garden tenfold. Cuttings of all bedding plants may now be taken off without injuring the effect of the beds, and generally make stronger and better plants for the following season if struck early. Violets that are wanted for winter will now be growing freely, and the runners should be trimmed off as recommended for Strawberries last month. French and African Marigolds, Cosmos, Single and Double Dahlias and other autumn flowering plants are now at their best, and should be staked and tied up as they re- quire it. This is the best fall month for sowing lawn Grass for new lawns, though by |careful preparation of soil and rolling, new lawns can be made in any month from end of March to beginning of November. Fexjit Gabden. — All transplanting should be done as early as practicable ; it is not necessary to wait till all the leaves are off before doing so. If the roots have been badly mutilated, reduce the head proportionately, cutting away what- ever may not mature, and see that the earth is- well packed about the roots. If not already done, attend to Blackberries, Raspberries and other small fruits as recommended last month. New plantations of Strawberry plants may still be made from the runners that have been layered in pots. The sooner in the month they are planted, the stronger they will be for next season's crop. These plants will soon make runners, which must be trimmed off to throw the strength into the crowns for next season's fruit- ing. Vegetable Gabden. — The main crop of Spin- ach and Sprouts for spring use may now be sown, and early Celery banked up fully, while even the latest planted should be "handled" so as to have it in close-together heads when placed in winter quarters. (See "Celery.") Early sorts of Turnips may yet be sown, though there is little chance of their being a full crop. Onions that were not harvested last month should now be attended to or they will not amount to much. Seeds of Cabbage, Cauliflower and Lettuce to raise plants to be placed in cold-frames should be sown in this latitude from the 10th to the 20th of this month, and when large enough to handle, pricked off into cold-frames two to three inches apart for the winter, although this plan is little used now, the plan being to sow for early plants in January and February. (See "Cabbage" or "Cauliflower.") Late sown Beets, Carrots, etc., will now be coming in, and are the more valuable on account of their sweet- ness and tenderness. OCTOBER. Gbeen-hotjse and Window Plants. — As the season advances it becomes necessary, espe- cially North, to house all tender plants, for which, of course, preparations have already been made. Unless the nights become cold enough to chill the plants inside of the house, they are better without fire heat, though the green-house at this season should never be allowed to fall below fifty degrees at night. When there is indication that the night is likely to be cold, let down the sashes that have been raised for ventilation early in the afternoon, and thus shut up the heated air until next day. If the thermometer falls to forty or forty-five degrees outside, a slight fire should be started in the green-house, as Roses, particularly at this season, are easily hurt by a sudden chill. Carnations, Camellias, Azaleas and Roses will do just as well, or even better if kept in a cold- frame until the middle of November, thus giv- ing them a rest before forcing begins. See that all Camellias, Azaleas and other hard-wooded plants are thoroughly clear of insects before being housed ; it will make the winter's work all the easier. Floweb Gabden. — Unless in a very favorable season, by the middle of the month frost has cleared off all Dahlias, Marigolds, Cosmos and other plants that make the autumn months so gay. All the fall bulbs, such as Hyacinths, Tu« AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 517 lips, Narcissus, Crocus, etc., should now be planted, hardy bulbs transplanted where neces- sary, and preparations made for winter. Dahlias, Tuberoses, Gladiolus, Cannas, Cal- adiums, Tigridias, and all tender bulbs or tubers that are planted in the spring, should be taken up by the end of the month, dried and stowed away in some dry place free from frost during winter. Fruit Garden. — All transplanting should be attended to early this month if not already done, to give the trees a chance to get well estab- lished before winter. If planting is deferred to the last of the month, the ground around the roots should be mulched to the thickness of three or four inches with leaves, straw or rough manure, as a protection to the roots against frost. Strawberries that have been layered in pots may yet be planted, and all run- ners carefully removed from earlier plantings. Vegetable Garden. — Toward the last of the month Beets, Parsnips, Carrots, Sweet Po- tatoes, and all other roots not designed to be left in the ground during winter, should be dug and housed or pitted. Celery will now be in full growth, and will require close attention to earthing up, and during the last part of the month the first lot may be stored away in trenches for winter. (See "Celery." Lettuce for winter use, if planted in cold-frames or in the green-house, will be ready for use by Christ- mas. Cabbage and Cauliflower plants, from seed sown about the middle of last month, should now be pricked out in cold frames, and Rhubarb and Asparagus, if wanted for winter use, should be taken up and stored free from frost, to be forced in the green-house or pit, as de- sired, during winter, (See "ForcingVegetables.") NOVEMBER. Gbeen-hottse and Window Plants.— There Is nothing so prejudicial to the well-being of green-house plants as too much fire-heat early in the season. Though frost may now be expected and must be guarded against when necessary, it is better to follow the advice given last month, and close up the ventilators early, thus shut- ting in the natural heat, which, however, should not be allowed to fall under fifty degrees, unless for Camellias, Azaleas, Carnations, etc., which will succeed better if kept at a night temperature of forty degrees. The first batches •of Roman Hyacinths, Early Tulips, etc., may now be started along gently. Insects, especially on the young growths of Roses and many " soft- wooded plants," will soon get troublesome unless kept rigidly in check. Where fire-heat is necessary be careful to keep up the proper sup- ply of moisture by syringing, sprinkling the paths, etc. In the window, Chysanthemums will be at their best during this month, and Primulas and Cyclamens beginning to show flower. All plants must be kept clear of insects, and where the plants are not too large one of the best modes of doing so is to invert the pot, dipping the head of the plant in water heated to 140 degrees for a few seconds. This not only kills green fly, red spider, and other insects, but removes all dust, etc., from the leaves. Flower Garden. — Where Chrysanthemums have not been hurt by frost the flower garden should still be showy, and even where protection has to be given them they may often be made to give an excellent show during the early part of the month ; otherwise there is little left to do but to clear off dead stalks, straw up tender Roses, vines, etc., and wherever there is an opportunity to dig up the borders, as it will greatly facili- tate spring work. All evergreens are much benefited at this season by a top-dressing of fresh loam or well-rotted manure. In the flower gar- den variety is always pleasing, and now is a good time to study how to have it arranged differently next season at little cost. It is often as easy and as pleasing to have change at small expense as when a large sum is involved. All beds where Hyacinths or other fall bulbs have been planted, had better be covered with rough litter or leaves to the depth of two or three inches. It is always risky to spread manure on lawns, unless it is thoroughly rotted. If such can be procured a good top-dressing applied now will show its good effect the following season. Fruit Garden. — Grape vines and fruit trees may be pruned anytime this month, and if wood of the vine is wanted for cuttings, or cions of fruit trees for grafts, they should be tied in small neat bunches, and buried in the ground until spring. The mulching recommended for Strawberries may also be put on during the last of the month, especially in cold localities. It is, however, generally not advisable to apply it till just before winter sets in, in December. Vegetable Garden. — All roots required for winter use that have not already been dug and housed, should be attended to by the middle of the month, or in this latitude they may get frozen in until spring if left longer. Celery that is to be stored for winter use should be put away before the end of the month in all places north of Richmond, Va. South of that it may be left, in most places, in the rows where grown, if covered up. (See "Celery.") Asparagus beds should have a heavy dressing of rough manure three or four inches thick, and all Onions, Cabbage, Sprouts, Spinach or Lettuce plants that are outside should be covered with two or three inches of leaves, salt hay or straw, to protect them during winter. Cabbages that have headed may be usually preserved against injury by frost until the middle of next month, by simply pulling them up and packing them close together in a dry spot in the open field with the heads down and roots up. On the ap- proach of cold weather in December they should be covered up with leaves as high as the tops of the roots ; or, if the soil is light, it may be thrown over them if leaves are not convenient. Cabbages so packed will keep until March, if the covering has not been put on too early. If only a few are grown, these and Cauliflower may be hung up in a cool cellar, and will keep in good condition for weeks. The cold frames where Cabbage, Lettuce or Cauliflower plants have been planted will now require regular ventilation by lifting up the sashes in warm days, and on the approach of very cold weather, straw mats or shutters will be a great protection to the plants. For the Cauliflower, this protec- tion is absolutely necessary in this latitude. All vacant ground should be rough dug, plowed or subsoiled whenever practicable to destroy insects, and have the soil well mellowed for crops in spring. 618 HENDERSONS HANDBOOK OF PLANTS. DECEMBER. GbEEN-HOUSE AND WINDOW PLANTS. — Win- ter is now with us, and all tender plants re- quire the closest attention. The generality of house plants suffer more from being kept too close and warm than from any other cause. This should be guarded against, and the rooms well ventilated on all favorable occasions. If Red Spider or Green Fly — the two great ene- mies of house plants — show themselves, an occasional syringing with water at a temper- ature of 140° is very effectual, and is much pref- erable for window plants to tobacco smoke. For the green-house, however, a gentle smoking with tobacco stems once or twice a week as a preventive is much the best practice. Some of the late Chrysanthemums will still be in bloom, and Primulas, Cyclamens, Azaleas, Callas, etc., should now make the green-house quite gay. The early Tulips and Eoman Hyacinths, Crocuses, etc., will also be coming in, and should be suc- ceeded by a fresh batch every week or ten days. The Amaryllis is also a good winter blooming plant, and there are now so many species and varieties that some may be had in flower all winter. Floweb Garden. — There is but little to do here this month. All necessary pruning of shrubs or trees should now be done; weakly and weather-beaten evergreens are much im- proved by pruning. As trees in most places are generally planted thickly for immediate effect, a few should be thinned out every year to give the rest a chance to develop, and where they are not removed, judicious pruning is an advantage. Branches should be cut off close to their source, so that the wound may heal over. It is now a good time to top-dress flower beds and lawns with well rotted manure, and, if not yet done, gather all the "bag worms" from Arbor Vitses and other evergreens. Many choice or half tender herbaceous plants in the rock- garden may be wintered through by a pane of glass placed over them to keep off the rain and snow. Fruit Garden. — All Blackberries, Raspber- ries, Grape vines, etc., in such sections of the country where protection from severe frost is desirable, should be laid down this month and covered with a few inches of soil, rough litter or leaves. An annual washing to the stems and branches of fruit trees, with any alkali that is most easily procurable, is of great benefit. It not only removes all Funguses and eggs of injurious insects, but leaves the limbs clean and healthy. Surface manuring is also of great benefit. Any leafy matter, road scrapings, etc., can be utilized; fruit trees rarely suffer from too rich feeding when applied to the surface. Strawberries, if not already mulched, should bo attended to at once. Vegetable Garden. — Very little can now be done in this department, except in making preparations for the following season. Spinach and other plants in need of protection should have it before the middle of the month, and the final covering given to Celery in trenches or roots in pits, and, if not already done, Aspara- gus beds should have a liberal coating of ma- nure; Bean-poles, Pea-brush and stakes of all kinds looked over, the tool-house put in order, and everything prepared for spring oper- ations. Snow that accumulates on cold frames or other glass structures should be removed, par- ticularly if the soil that the glass covers was not frozen before the snow fell. If frozen, it may remain on the sashes longer; for the plants, if frozen, are, of course, dormant, and would not be injured by being deprived of light for eight or ten days. Whenever it is practicable, all empty ground should be dug or plowed this month, and trench- ing or subsoiling should be done, wherever ne- cessary and time or opportunity will permit. All such operations, when performed in the fall, not only benefit the soil, but greatly facilitate work in the spring. USEFUL TABLES AND MEMORANDA. THE following Tables of Useful Information have been carefully compiled from reliable authorities, and, we believe, may be depended on as being accurate. Questions relative to operations connected with the soil are continually cropping up. To cope with these requires a certain amount of technical knowledge, and it is to provide such that we introduce these memoranda in this work. TEMPERATURE, RAIN, Etc. Temperature. The average temperature in the temperate zones being authoritatively given as fifty degrees Fahrenheit, it may be interest- ing and instructive to many to know the average temperature at different points in the United States, and at cities in various parts of the world. Oh © STATE CITY US . Sag soluble organic matter, 83 lbs. ; soluble silica, 5% lbs. ; phosphate of lime, 8^ lbs. ; lime, 2)| lbs. ; magnesia, 1 lb. ; potash, 10 lbs. ; soda, % lb. ; chloride of sodium, % lbs. ; sul- phuric acid, 1W lbs. ; carbonic acid and loss, 2% lbs. Constituents in a Ton of Various Manures. Peruvian Guano. — Ammonia, 221 i^ lbs. ; potash, 661^ lbs. ; soda, 37 lbs. ; phosphoric acid, 283 lbs. ; sulphuric acid, 93}^ lbs., and chlorine, 62 lbs. Night Soil.— Ammonia, 17 lbs. ; potash, 1% lbs. ; soda, 4)^ lbs. ; phosphoric acid, 120 lbs. ; sulphuric acid, 2% lbs., and chlorine, 2% lbs. Nitrate of Soda. — Ammonia, 364 lbs., and soda, 834 lbs. Sulphate of Ammonia. — Ammonia, 470 lbs., and sulphuric acid, 1,357 lbs. Sulphate of Lime. — Sulphuric acid, 1,317 lbs. Common Salt. — Soda, 813 lbs., and chlorine, 1,187 lbs. Fresh Bones.— Phosphoric acid, 580 lbs., and ammonia, 145 lbs. Mixed Urine. — Ammonia, I834 lbs. ; pot- ash, 2 lbs. ; phosphoric acid, 234 lbs. ; soda, 5)^ lbs. ; sulphuric acid, %% lbs., and chlorine, \% lbs. Soot. — Ammonia, 50 lbs. ; chlorine, 22V£ lbs. ; sulphuric acid, 194 lbs. ; phosphoric acid, 5% lbs. ; soda, 2)£ lbs. ; magnesia, 8% lbs., and potash, 7 lbs. Value of Manure according to Professor Johnston. Placing farm-yard manure as the standard, 100; value of the mixed — that is, solid and liquid — excretion of the cow is 98, of the horse 54, of the pig 64. The liquid ex- cretion of the cow is 91 ; solid do., 125 ; liquid excretion of the horse, 16 ; solid do., 73. "Weight of Manure to apply to different Crops, per Acre. Potatoes, 15 to 30 tons; mangel wurzel, 20 to 30 ; carrots, 12 to 20 ; hops, 25 to 40 ; beans, 12 to 20 tons. Artificial Manures. — Peruvian guano, 250 to 500 lbs. ; nitrate of soda and potash, 250 lbs. ; salt, 250 to 500 lbs. ; soot, 1,000 to 1,500 lbs. Weight of Manures. Of night soil, a ton measures eighteen cubic feet. Dung with manure retained ; a cubic yard weighs a ton. If manure when first taken from the cattle boxes in a fresh state is supposed to weigh 100, it will in a half-rotted state weigh only 80, or will have lost one-fifth; when fully rotted, 50, having lost one-half. Crushed bones weigh about 1,000 lbs. to the cubic yard; bones calcined, about one-half the above; animal charcoal, about 2,000 lbs. to the cubic yard ; marl, about, 3,750 lbs ; phos- phate of lime, about 3,000 lbs., and street or road detritus, about one ton. Inorganic Constituents returned to the soil in Twelve Tons of Farm-yard Manure to the Acre. Potash, 201 lbs. ; soda, 67 lbs. ; lime, 337 lbs. ; magnesia, 35 lbs. ; chlorine, 12 lbs. ; sulphuric acid, 84 lbs. ; phosphoric acid, 108 lbs. ; soluble silica, 269 lbs. ; nitrogen, 165 lbs. Ingredients and Proportions in Making Su- perphosphate of Lime, according to Ander- son. 42 lbs., or one bushel of bones, 17>£ lbs. of sulphuric acid, 9 lbs. of water and 10 bush- els of ashes ; the bones to be sprinkled with the water, before the acid is employed. The amount thus made will be sufficient for an acre. The following is the mode of making it: The cistern should be made of lead or strong wood ; the bones should be spread in small quantity upon the bottom of the cistern and the acid gradually poured in upon them from the watering vessel, which should be made of lead, and at the same time a quantity (proportionate to the acid) of boiling water. AND GENEKAL HORTICULTURE. 521 Medium Rotted Bone Manure — Decomposed with Potash. ANALYSIS. Per Cent. Phosphoric Acid 3.33 Equivalent to Bone | rng Phosphate of Lime J Nitrogen 2.57 Equivalent to Ammonia 3.11 Potassa (Potash) 3.10 Equivalent to Sulphate of Potassa 5.80 Rotted Bone Manure, Plain. ANALYSIS. Per Cent. Phosphoric Acid 5.44 Equivalent to Bone | g gg Phosphate of Lime j " ' ' ' ' Nitrogen 2.48 Equivalent to Ammonia 3.02 Analysis No. 1 Peruvian Guano. Percent. Moisture at 212° F ,13.16 Potash 2. 62 Nitrogen 7.76 Total Phosphoric Acid 14.28 Stones 4.62 Equivalent to Ammonia 9.42 Equivalent to Bone Phosphate 31.17 Permanent Pasture Fertilizer, High Grade. ANALYSIS. Per Cent. Ammonia 4 to 4}^ Phosphoric Acid, total 10 to 12 Potash as Sulphate and Muriate. . 3% to 4)£ Analysis of Pure Raw Knuckle Bone Meal. MECHANICAL ANALYSIS. Per Cent. Passed holes ^ inch 76 " & " 21 " & " 3 100 CHEMICAL ANALYSIS. Per Cent. Lbs. per Ton. Nitrogen 3.82 76.4 Phosphoric Acid .25.61 512.2 Blood and Bone Fertilizer. Per Cent. Ammonia from Blood and Bone 3 Phosphate of Lime, nearly all soluble and available, except % per cent 26 Potash, actual 3 Sulphate of Potash 5 to 6 CROPS. The following Table will assist Farmers or Gardeners in making an Accurate Esti- mate of the Amount of Land in Different Fields under Cultivation: 10 rods x 16 rods. . . . 1 acre. 220 feet x 198 feet. . . 1 acre. 8 " x20 " . ... 1 - 110 " x369 " .. . 1 •• 5 " x32 " . ... 1 " 60 «• x726 •' .. . 1 " 4 " x40 " . ... 1 •• 120 " x363 '« .. . 1 «• 5 yds. x 968 yds. ... 1 " 200 " x 108.9" .. •y* " 10 " x484 ♦« . ... 1 " 100 " xH5.2" .. • H " 20 " x242 " . ... 1 " 100 " x 108.9" .. .% " 40 " xl21 " . ... 1 " Average Number of Seeds contained in One lb. of the various Cereal Crops. Wheat, 10,000 ; barley, 15,000 ; oats, 18,000 to 20,000 ; rye, 20,000 ; beans, 900 to 1,000 ; peas, 1,800 to 2,000 ; flax, 100,000 ; hemp, 24,000. Average Quantity of Seed Sown to an Acre : IN DBILLS. Beets 5 to 6 pounds. Carrots 4 to 5 " Dwarf Beans 1J^ bushels. Early Peas 3 " Marrowfat Peas 3 " Onions , 5 to 6 pounds. Onions for sets 60to 80 " Onion sets, per acre, accord- ing to size 8 to 10 bushels. Potatoes (cut tubers) 12 to 14 " Parsnips 5 to 6 pounds. Radishes 9 to 10 " Salsify 6 to 8 Spinach 10tol2 Turnip l>£to 2 IN HILLS. Corn 8 to 10 quarts. Cucumbers 2 to 3 pounds Muskmelons 2 to 3 " Pole Beans 8 to 10 quarts. Pumpkin 2 to 3 pounds Squash 2 to 3 " Watermelons 4 to 5 " Quantity of Seed Required for a Given Number of Plants: Asparagus 1 Cabbage 1 Cauliflower 1 Celery 1 Egg Plant 1 Endive 1 Leek 1 Lettuce 1 Marjoram 1 Pepper 1 Rhubarb 1 Sage 1 Savory 1 Thyme 1 Tomato 1 Quantity of Seed Required Number of Hills : About, oz. 500 plants, oz. 1,500 oz. 1,000 oz. 2,000 oz. 1,000 oz. 3,000 oz. 1,500 oz. 3,000 oz. 1,500 oz. 1,000 oz. 500 oz. 1,000 oz. 2,000 oz. 4,000 oz. 1,500 for a Given Corn 1 qt. to 200 hills. Cucumbers 1 oz. to 125 " Muskmelon 1 oz. to 60 " Pole Beans, Limas 1 qt. to 100 " Pole Beans, Wax 1 qt. to 150 " Pumpkin 1 oz. to 50 M Squash 1 oz. to 50 »* Watermelon 1 oz. to 30 " Quantity of Seed Required for a Given Length of Drill : Asparagus 1 oz. Beet loz. Beans, Dwarf 1 qt. 100 Carrot 1 oz. 100 Endive 1 oz. 100 Okra loz. 40 Onion 1 oz. 100 60 feet of drill. 50 » Onion sets 1 qt. 50 Parsley 1 oz. 125 Parsnips 1 oz. 200 Peas 1 qt. 75 Radishes 1 oz. 100 Salsify loz. 70 Spinach 1 oz. 100 Turnip 1 oz. 150 522 HENDEBSON'S HANDBOOK OP PLANTS Table Showing the Amount of Seed Neces- sary for an Acre, and the Number of Pounds to the Bushel: No. lbs. No. lbs. toBu. to Acre. Alfalfa "... 60 12to 15 Alsike Clover 60 6 to 8 Barley 48 75to 90 Buckwheat 48 60 to 75 EngiishRye Grass 28 75tol00 Flax , 66 28to 42 Hemp 44 30 to 60 Henderson's Mixed Lawn Grass 21 75 to 100 Hungarian... 48 40 to 50 JohnsonGrass 25 25 to 30 Kentucky Blue Grass 14 40 to 50 Millet 50 40to 60 Oats 2 to 3 bushels OrchardGrass 14 45 to 60 Peas, Field ,..., 60 120 to 180 Bed Clover 60 12 to 14 BedTop ; '.".'..".*.*.'.*.*. 14 30to 40 Rye 56 75 to 90 SugarCane 50 6 to 8 Timothy 45 25 to 40 Wheat. 60 60 to 90 White Dutch Clover 60 6 to 8 Average Gross Produce per Acre of the Cereal Crops. Wheat, 20 to 25 bushels ; oat's, 35 to 40 bushels; barley, 35 to 40 bush- els; rye, 25 to 30 bushels; peas, 25 bush- els. Weights of various Farm Crops. Two and one-fifth cubic feet of new wheat weighs 112 lbs. ; oats, 3.65 cubic feet, 112 lbs. ; barley, 2.38 cubic feet, 112 lbs. ; straw, in its usual condi- tion, weighs 3}£ lbs. per cubic foot — it maybe compressed to weigh nearly 6 lbs. per cubic foot ; hay in like manner will weigh respect- ively 5 and 8 lbs. per cubic foot. A. bushel of grain when lying on the floor occupies a space of one square foot, with a depth of 15)^ inches. Turnips, about 1,000 lbs. to the cubic yard ; ruta-bagas, about 1,350 lbs. ; mangel wurzels, about 1,100 lbs. ; . potatoes, about 1,250 lbs., and carrots, about 1,100 lbs. to the cubic yard. A ton of Timothy hay in stack or mow, well pressed, measures 480 cubic feet, or 6x8x10 feet. A ton .of mixed Timothy and clover measures 520 feet. A ton of mixed meadow grasses measures 600 feet. A ton of loose straw measure 900 feet. Average Weight per Acre of the Root and Hay Crops. Turnips, 20 to 30 tons ; carrots, 25 tons ; potatoes, 6 to 12 tons ; hay, 1 to 2 tons ; clover hay, 2 tons. Average Weight of the Straw of the Cereal Crops per Acre. Wheat, 3,000 to 3,500 lbs. ; oats, 2,000 to 2,500 lbs. ; barley, 2,100 to 2,500 lbs. ; rye, 4,000 to 5,000 lbs. ; peas, 2,700 lbs. STOCK. Value of different Foods compared with Hay. One hundred pounds of good meadow hay are estimated to be equivalent in feeding value to 80 lbs. of clover, or vetch hay, 200 lbs. of po- tatoes, 460 lbs. of beet-root with, and 250 lbs. without, the leaves, 250 lbs. of carrots, 400 lbs. of wheat straw, 300 lbs. of barley and oat straw, 25 lbs. of beans or peas, 50 lbs. of oats and 500 lbs. of green clover or vetches. To Produce 1 lb. of Flesh in Fattening Stock. It is calculated that it takes the consumption of either 100 lbs. of turnips, 50 lbs. of pota- toes, 25 lbs. of milk, 9 lbs. of oatmeal, 7 lbs. of barley meal, 1%, lbs. of bread, the same quantity of flour, and 7 lbs. of peas or beans. Rate of Pulsation of the Animals of the Farm. The horse, 32 to 38 pulsations per minute ; an ox or cow, 25 to 42 ; a sheep, 70 to 79 ; the ass, 48 to 54 ; goat, 72 to 76 ; the dog, 90 to 100 ; the cat, 110 to 120; the rabbit, 120; the Guinea- pig, 140 ; of fowls, the hen, 140 ; the duck, 135. Periods of Gestation of Farm Animals. Cow, from 240 to 321 days ; mare, 322 to 419 ; ewe, 146 to 161 days ; sow, 109 to 143 days ; rabbit, 20 to 35 days. Time Occupied to Hatch Eggs by various Birds. Hen, 21 days ; duck, 28 days ; turkey, 26 days ; goose, 30 days ; pigeon, 18 days. Amount of Air required for Ventilation Pur- poses by Man and by the Animals of the Farm. If it be correct that when respiration is performed naturally, there are about eight- een respirations in one minute, and 1,080 in an hour ; and that by each respiration a pint of air is sent into the lungs* that is, eighteen pints in a minute, or more than two hogsheads in an hour, the effect impurity may produce is evident. When the body is in a state of health there will be seventy -two pulsations of the heart in a minute. Every pulsation sends to the heart two ounces of blood. Thus 144 ounces are sent for purification to the lungs every minute. The blood performs a com- plete circuit of the system in 110 seconds. These figures show how great is the need for the air we breath to be pure and wholesome. The minimum amount of space required to keep a man in a healthy condition is 600 cubic feet ; this is often the allowance for a horse, which should have double that amount of space at least ; some idea, therefore, may be obtained of the unhealthy condition of stables. The cow may be set down as requiring at least as much, if not more, than a horse, so that 1,400 cubic feet per cow should be al- lowed. It has been calculated that the horse inspiring eight times per minute, requires 48,000 cubic inches of air per hour. The quantity of carbonic acid gas created by the respiration of this volume of air per hour is one cubic foot, containing two ounces or thereabouts of solid carbon. To this source of deterioration of the purity of the air of a cow-house, is to be added that arising from the cutaneous perspiration of the animal, which, with pulmonary perspiration, results in the evolution of a weight of watery excreta equal to fifteen pounds every twenty-four hours ; add to these sources of impurity those arising from the liquid and solid excreta voided by the animal, and some idea of the state of the air in a badly ventilated cow- house may be formed. The amount of air, then, which from the above data is required for each animal is 6,000 cubic feet, and this space given to a cow-house of ample dimen- sions will give house room for four animals, thus allowing each 1,500 cubic feet of air per hour ; so that to give to each the supply of four times this, the air will require to be changed four times every hour. Each window frame, in the open spaces or chinks connected with it, passes some eight cubic feet per min- ute; a door will pass at le?st double that quantity. AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 523 FORESTRY, Etc. Table Showing the Number of Trees or Plants that can be Planted on an Acre, at the distances apart given: 30x30 feet. 25x25 " . 20x20 «« . 19 x 19 •• . 18x18 " . 17x17 *• . 16x16 - . 15x15 •■ . 14 x 14 " . 13x13 «« . 12x12 •• . 11x11 " . 10x10 " . 9x9 " . 8x8 •• . 7x7 •• . 6^x6>£" . . 48 . 69 . 108 . 120 . 134 . 150 . 170 . 193 . 222 . 257 . 302 . 360 . 435 . 637 . 680 . 888 .1,031 6x 6 feet 1,210 5^x5^" 1,417 5x5" 1,742 5x 4 •' 2,178 6x3" ..: 2,904 6x 2 " 4,366 5x 1 " 8,712 4x 4 •« 2,722 4x 3 " 3,630 4x 2 ■« 6,445 4x1" 10,890 3x 3 " 4,840 3x 2 " 7,260 3x1 " 14,520 2x2 " 10,890 2x 1 " 21,780 1 x 1 " 43,560 All Conifers and Evergreen Tree-Seeds require to be kept in a cool, dry spot (prefera- bly in dry sand) until the time of sowing. Chestnuts, Walnuts and similar seeds should be planted in the fall, or kept in moist sand or moss, as they lose their germinating power by too long exposure to the air. Apple, Pear, Quince seeds, with Cherry and Peach pits, also those with hard shells, like Magno- lias, Locust, etc., should be placed in boxes of sand and well frozen before being sown in spring, to soften their hard outer coating, otherwise they may not vegetate until the second year after sowing. If this has been overlooked, they may be soaked in hot water for a few hours before planting. Osage orange seeds invariably require this treatment. The seeds of other deciduous trees and shrubs, with few exceptions, may be planted dur- ing the spring months with every chance of success. Frtjit and Tree Seeds. In raising Fruit or Tree seeds it is well to remember that some varieties germinate very easily, while others will lie dormant a whole season before commencing to grow. The reason for this depends generally on the man- ner in which the seeds have been treated be- fore sowing, though often seeds of a given species gathered and sown at the same time will show great irregularity in germinating, some of them coming months before others. up weeks or even Number of Tree Seeds to the Pound. About. Ailantus 20,000 Alder 100,000 Ash, American White 10,000 Ash, European 5,000 Apple 12,000 Arborvitee, American 30,000 Arborvitee, Chinese 40,000 Barberry 8,000 Beech, European 1,000 Birch, White 500,000 Black or Yellow Locust 3,000 Box Elder 15,000 Catalpa Speciosa 20,000 Teas' Japanese Hybrid 50,000 Cedar, Red 8,000 Cherry, Black 4,000 Cherry, Pits 1,000 Chestnut, Sweet 100 Elm, American and European 50,000 Fir, Balsam 80,000 Fir, Scotch 70,000 Hawthorn 6,000 Hemlock Spruce 100,000 Hickory Nuts 50 Honey Locust 2,500 Hornbeam 10,000 Kentucky Coffee Tree 200 Larch 100,000 Linden, European 5,000 Maple, Mammoth 7,000 Norway 7,000 Soft 2,000 Sugar 7,000 Sycamore 6,000 Mulberry, sorts 200,000 Norway Spruce 70,000 Osage Orange 10,000 Papaw 400 Peach 200 Pear 15,000 Pine, Austrian 25,000 Quince 15,000 Sweet Gum 20,000 Tulip Tree 20,000 Walnuts 25 MASONRY, WELIi DIGGING AND LUMBER. Stone and Brick Work. One square foot of 8-in. wall requires 16 bricks ; 12-in. wall, 24 bricks; 16-in. wall, 32 bricks; 18-in wall, 36 bricks. One perch of stone work is 24% cubic feet, or 16% square feet, 18 inches thick. Cement and Mortar. One barrel of cement and two barrels of sand will make mortar suf- ficient for 600 to 700 bricks. One barrel of cement to four of sand and gravel will make nine square yards of concrete floor, three inches thick. One barrel of lime with ten bushels of sand will make mortar for 1,000 bricks. One barrel of lime and ten bushels of sand will make plaster for forty square yards of sur- face; half a bushel of long hair, or a half more of short hair, will be required. One hundred laths and 500 nails will cover four and a half square yards. A square yard of plastering requires three-fourths of a bushel. A hod of mortar is half a bushel. On Determining the Size of Cisterns for Rain Water. The size of cisterns should vary ac- cording to their intended use. If they are to furnish a daily supply of water they need not be so large as for keeping supplies for sum- mer only. The average depth of rain which falls in this latitude rarely exceeds six to seven inches for two months. The size of the cistern, therefore, need not exceed that of a body of water on the whole roof of the build- ing seven inches deep. To ascertain this amount multiply the length by the breadth of the building, reduce this to inches, and divide the product by 231, and the quotient will be gallons for each inch of depth. Multiplying by seven will give the full amount for two months' rain falling upon the roof ; divide by 31%, the quotient will be barrels. Cisterns intended only for drawing from in times of drought should be about three times the preceding capacity. 524 HENDEKSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS Contents of a Round Cistern in Gallons and Number of Bricks required for each foot in Depth: Gallons. Barrels. Bricks. 8 feet in diameter.... 376 12>£ 292 8>i " It f< 424 14 308 9 (1 ** 480 15% 326 9K " It It 533 ilk 340 10 tt tt 679 19 360 11 " It II 690 23 418 12 tt tt 840 28 462 13 tt tt 992 33 484 14 " it it 1,161 38>i 520 16 tt II 1,321 44 659 A circle encloses the largest space of any figure for the same length of line. A circular cistern is therefore the cheapest. The fol- lowing table gives the differences of Area of Square and Round Cisterns. Sqtjabe. Diameter Length of Wall. Area of Surface. 8 feet 32 feet. 64 square feet. 10 •• 40 " 100 " •* 12 " 48 " 144 " Round. Diameter. Length of WalL Area of Surface. lOfeet 31^ feet. 78>£ square feet. 12 " 37% " 112 " " 15 " 47 *• 117 " " Twice the diameter of a circle or a square gives four times the area in square feet ; twice the diameter of a cube gives eight times the solid contents in cubic feet ; half the diameter gives one-fourth of the area, or one eighth of the cubic contents. Well Digging. Quantity of earth excavated for each foot in depth of different diameters : 3 ft., 261 cubic yards; 3 ft. 3 in., 307 cubic yards; 3 ft. 6 in., 356 cubic yards; 4 ft., 465 cubic yards; 4 ft. 6 in., 589 cubic yards; and 5 ft., 727 cubic yards. Weight of Timber. English oak weighs 50 lbs. to the cubic foot; American oak, 47; Baltic, 46 ; mahogany, Honduras, 40 ; and Spanish, 55; larch, 35; ash, 50; birch, 48; beech, 51 ; elm, 39 ; poplar, 32 ; red pine, 40 ; yellow pine, 33; Danzic fir, 35; and Memel fir, 38 lbs. to the cubic foot. WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. Table for Converting Sundry Weights and Measures Into the Metric System, and the reverse ; constructed on the basis of the tables published in the Smithsonian Beport for the year 1865, prepared by Henry G. Hanks. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 No 1. 25.40 50.80 76.20 101.60 127.00 152.40 177.80 203.20 228.60 ** 2. 28.32 66.63 84.95 113.27 141.59 169.90 198.22 226.64 254.85 *t 3. 61.02 120.05 183.07 244.09 305.12 366.14 427.16 488.19 649.21 n 4. Cubic inches to cubic centimeters. . . 16.39 32.77 49.16 65.65 81.94 98.32 114.71 131.10 147.48 *t 5. 26.417 62.834 79.251 105.668 132.085 168.502 184.919 211.336 237.753 ** 6. 3.785 7.571 11.356 15.142 18.927 22.713 26.498 30.283 40.069 *t 7. 33.81 67.63 101.44 135.26 169.07 202.88 236.70 270.51 304.32 tt 8. 2.957 6.915 8.872 11.829 14.787 17.744 20.702 23.659 26.616 tt 9. Kilograms to avoirdupois pounds. . . . 2.2046 4.4092 6.6138 8.8184 11.0230 13.2276 15.4322 17.6368 19.8414 tt 10. 453.6 907.2 1360.8 1814.4 2268.0 2721.6 3175.2 3628.8 4082.4 25 11. Kilograms to avoirdupois ounces.... 36.27 70.55 105.82 141.09 176.37 211.64 246.92 282.19 317.46 tt 12. 28.35 66.70 85.05 113.40 141.75 170.10 198.46 226.80 255.15 tt 13. 32.150 64.301 96.451 128.602 160.752 192.903 225.053 257.203 289.354 " 14. 31.104 62.208 93.311 124.415 155.519 186.623 217.727 248.830 279.934 tt 15. 15.432 30.864 46.297 61.729 77.161 92.593 108.025 123.468 138.890 tt 16. 0.0648 0.1296 0.1944 0.2592 0.3240 0.3888 0.4536 0.5184 0.5832 The above table will be found to meet all the requirements of the assayer and chemist. The following example will explain its use : Suppose the capacity of a tank or cistern is found by measurement to be 82 cubic feet, and the number of liters is required. Refer to table No. 2, and find that 8 cubic feet = 226.54 liters. Eighty cubic feet will be ten times as much. Therefore : 80 cubic feet = 2265.40 liters. 2 cubic feet = 56.63 liters. 82 cubic feet = 2322.03 liters. Metrical or Modern System: LINEAR MEASTJRB French. Millimetre, Centimetre, Decimetre, Metre, Decametre, Hectometre, Kilometre, Myriametre, Metre. .001 .01 .1 1 10 100 1000 10,000 English. or .039371 inches, or .39371 3.9371 39.371 393.71 3937.1 39371 or or or or or or 393710 or % mile, or 6J mile:;. The basis or unit of the system is the metre, which is the ten-millionth part of the terres- trial arc from the equator to the pole, and the length of which in English measure is 1.0936 yards, or 3.2809 feet, or as above in inches. By multiplying the metre respectively by 10, 100, 1,000 and 10,000, we obtain the deca, hecto, kilo and myria metre respectively; and by dividing the metre by 10, 100 and 1,000, we ob- tain the deci, centi smdmilli metre respectively. SUPERFICIAL MEASURE. English. . is equal to 155 square inched. " 10.764 square feet. '• 11.96 square yards. French. A milliare Acentare ... " Adeciare ... " An are, the unit of square measure, is equal to 1 square decametre, or 119.6 " A decare ... is equal to 1196 " A hectare ... " 2.472 square acres. SOLID MEASURE. English. French. A millistere . • is equal to A square metre . . " A centiare ... " A decistere . " A stere, the unit of solid measure, is equal to 1 cubic metre, or A decastere . . is equal to A hectastere . . " A kilostere . . " 01.028 cubic inches. 1 J square yards. 610.28 " 3.53170 cubio feet. 35.317 13.08 cubio yards. 130.8 " 1308 " AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. 525 MEASURES OF WEIGHT. French. English. The milligramme is equal to .016434 or ^5 grains troy. The centigramme " .15434 The decigramme " 1.6434 " The gramme " 15.432 or 15}£ •• The decagramme " .32164 ounces troy. The hectogramme *' 3.527 ounces avoir. The kilogramme " 2.2046 or 2$ pounds avoir. The myriagramme " 22.046 " The gramme, unit of weight in the metrical Weight in Pounds of Legal Bushels of Va- rious Articles in the following States: >> CD u o3 H 1 A a o O s o m a o '3 o to •+* n! O tn O *a O 0H 6 A 03 P. a | \ » CO u o 1 5 > .a o a H i 02 system, is equal to a cubic centimetre of dis- 48 48 fifi 50 50 50 48 50 48 46 50 48 50 50 50 50 48 50 50 52 52 57 57 57 57 57 56 57 50 54 48 57 57 57 57 57 30 30 32 32 28 32 30 30 32 32 32 32 30 33 35 32 32 32 33 32 32 32 32 32 32 33 32 32 34 32 36 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 56 60 56 60 60 60 56 60 60 56 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 ..160 56 60 60 64 . . 60 . . . . 64 60 42 tilled water in vacuo at its maximum density, or 390° Fah. 56 56 56 58 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 54 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 52 56 48 48 48 48 45 48 50 48 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 32 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 56 64 60 60 56 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 6(1 70 MEASURES OF CAPACITY. 48 48 47 . . 62 60 .. ..64 . . . . 62 45 French. English. A millilitre . . is equal to .061028 cubic inches. A centilitre . . " .61028 " 85 A decilitre . . " 6.1028 48 47 48 48 48 48 40 32 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 48 50 48 50 46 48 48 48 52 50 56 52 50 52 50 48 50 52 50 42 52 52 50 52 40 42 . . 62 64 55 62 60 66 60 64 60 60 60 . . . . 64 . . 60 60 . . . . 60 45 45 45 45 45 56 A litre, the unit of the measure of capacity, is equal to 1 cubic Dist. of Columbia. 50 decimetre (see "Linear Mea- sure "), or 61.028 cubic or . 1.761 imp. pints. A decalitre . . is equal to 2.2 imp. gallons. A hectolitre . . " 2.75 imp. bushels. 50 56 A kilolitre . . " 35.317 cubic feet. Amyrialitre . . " 353.17 . . 60 60 . . 60 . . . . 60 60 . . 60 60 68 60 60 . . 60 60 . . 60 60 . . . . 60 . . . . 60 . . 60 60 . . 60 60 65 60 60 55 60 60 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 50 APPROX] [MATE VALUES. is equal to 3 feet 3^5 inches. " 4 inches. " 1 rod. '* 6 furlongs. " 10% square feet. •• 2>£ acres. " %. cord. , " 1 quart. , " 2% bushels. " 15K grains. , " 2J pounds. " 1 ton. 50 1 metre 56 50 50 1 square metre 1 hectare . . 1 cubic metre . . 1 litre . . # 1 hectolitre . . 1 gramme . . . 1 kilogramme Tonneau= 1,000 kilos 50 50 50 60 56|60 .60 , , • . FOREIGN MONET. ITS VALUE IN UNITED STATES CURRENCY. Austria, Silver Florin $0 40.7 Belgium, Gold and Silver Franc 19.3 Bolivia, Silver 5 Franc 82.3 Brazil, Gold Milreis (1,000 reis) 54.6 Bogota, Silver Peso 96.5 Chili, Gold and Silver Peso 91. 2 China, Silver Tael 1 38.0 Cuba, Gold and Silver Peso 93.2 Denmark, Gold Crown 26.8 Ecuador, Silver Peso 82.3 Egypt, Gold Piaster. ... 04.9 France, Gold and Silver Franc 19.3 Great Britain, Gold Sovereign 4 86.65 Germany, Gold Mark 23.8 India, Silver Rupee (16 annas) 39. Italy, Gold and Silver Lira $0 19.3 Japan, Silver Yen 88.8 Mexico, Silver Dollar 89.4 Netherlands, Gold and Silver Florin ... 40.2 Norway and Sweden, Gold and Silver Crown 26.8 Peru, Silver Sol 82.3 Portugal, Gold Milreis (1,000 reis) 1 08. Russia, Silver Rouble (100 copecks) . . . 65.8 Spain, Gold and Silver Peseta (100 cen- times) 19.3 Turkey, Gold Piaster 04.4 U. S. of Colombia, Silver Peso 82.3 Uruguay, Silver Patacon 94.9 Venezuela, Gold and Silver Bolivar 19.3 MISCELLANEOUS. Various Measures. The United States or Win- chester Bushel is 18*4 inches diameter (in- side measure), 19*^ inches outside and 8 inches deep. A struck bushel contains 64 pints=32 qts.=8 gallons, equal to 2,150.42 cubic inches (French, 35.2466 litres). When heaped the cone must be not less than 6 inches high, and it then contains 2,747.40 cubic inches. The Imperial Bushel measures 18.8 inches wide and 8 inches deep, and contains when struck 2,218.192 cubic inches. A cord measures 4 feet by 4 feet by 8 feet and contains 128 cubic feet. A cubic foot contains 1,728 cubic inches. An acre contains 43,560 square feet, or 4,840 square yards. A square acre measures very nearly 70 yards, or 210 feet, on each side. A 10-acre field is 40 rods, or 220 yards, or 660 feet, on each side ; to double the length of the side makes four times the area of a field. Cubic yards of soil required to cover an acre four inches deep, 538; six inches deep, 807 cubic yards. Table for Taking Inside Dimensions : A box 24 x 24 x 15 in. will contain a bbl. of 31 J gallons. 16 x 14 x 11 in. •■ ii 10 gallons. 8J x 7 x 4 in. u i« 1 gallon. 4 x 4 x 3)} in. a ii 1 quart. 24 x 28 x 16 in. ii it 6 bush. 16 x 12x11$ in. ii IC 1 bush. 12 x 11J x 8 in. ii (1 J bush. 1 peck. 7x 6Jx 12 in. i< II 8g x 8 x 4 in. •i It J peck, or 4 dry qts. 6x 63 x 4 in. ii II £ gallon. 4 x 4 x 2?a in. ii «• 1 pint. 526 HENDERSON'S HANDBOOK OF PLANTS. Measuring Trees, Etc. — This very simple plan of ascertaining the height of trees, etc., is taken from the Journal of Horticulture (London, July, 1888). The tree measurer on the right of the figure consists of a staff six feet long, pointed for pressing into the ground. To the centre of the staff a piece of half-inch board twelve inches wide and exactly square is affixed with screws. The diagonal cross lath is three feet long and perfectly straight. It may be fixed or movable ; if the latter, a small button being screwed on the board for it to rest on when in use . The plumb line is indispensable, as no correct measure- ment can be had without it. The plumb- bob may be about the size of a small walnut, the string passing through its centre. In measuring the tree, the staff is placed at a distance from it, so that with the plumb exactly perpendicular the cross lath points to the top of the tree. The person taking the "sight" resting on one knee or reclining to bring the eye to the bottom of the lath. The lath is then drawn to the ground, where the end rests at C in the figure, or, if the lath is fixed, a string will answer the purpose of extending the sight- line to the ground. From this point 0 to the centre of the trunk will represent the actual height of the tree ; or to put the matter concisely, the horizontal line A C is equal to the vertical A B. When the ground is irregular, provision must be made for having the line level from the root of the tree, or A in the figure, to C. The central board must be a true square, the perfectly straight sighting lath resting across it exactly from corner to corner, as the least deviation will lead to error, and the weight must hang positively plumb, other- wise the measurement will not be accurate. Measuring the Width of a River. The ap- proximate breadth of a river or other stream may be determined by means of the brim of a hat or the peak of a cap, and this can be done by a boy as well as a man. The person desiring to ascertain this fact must place himself at the edge of one bank of the river and lower the brim of his hat, or peak of his cap, till he finds the edge just cuts the other bank ; then, after placing the hand under the chin, so as to steady his head and keep it in exactly the same position, he must turn round steadily till he faces some level ground on his own side of the river, and observe when the edge of the peak again meets the ground. The measure of this distance will be very nearly the breadth of the river. Common and Chemical Names of Various Substances. — Aqua fortis is nitric acid. Aqua regia is nitro-muriatic acid. Blue vitriol is sul- phate of copper. Cream of tartar is bitartrate potassium. Calomel is chloride of mercury. Chalk is carbonate of calcium. Salt of tartar is carbonate of potassa. Caustic potassa is hy- drate potassium. Chloroform is chloride of formyle. Common salt is chloride of sodium. Copperas, or green vitriol, is sulphate of iron. Corrosive sublimate is bichloride of mercury. Dry alum is sulphate aluminum and potassium. Epsom salts is sulphate of magnesia. Ethiops mineral is black sulphate of mercury. Fire damp is light carburetted hydrogen. Galena is sul- phide of lead. Glauber salt is sulphate of so- dium. Glucose is grape sugar. Goulard water is basic acetate of lead. Iron pyrites is bisul- phide of iron. Jeweler's putty is oxide of tin. King's yellow is sulphide of arsenic. Laughing gas is protoxide of nitrogen. Lime is oxide of calcium. Lunar caustic is nitrate of silver. Mosaic gold is bisulphide of tin. Muriate of lime is chloride of calcium. Nitrate of salt- petre is nitrate of potash. Oil of vitriol is sul- phuric acid. Potash is oxide of potassium. Realgar is red sulphuret of arsenic. Red lead is oxide of lead. Rust of iron is oxide of iron. Sal ammoniac is muriate of ammonia. Slacked lime is hydrate calcium. Soda is oxide of so- dium. Spirits of hartshorn is ammonia. Spirits of salt is hydrochloride of muriatic acid. Stucco, or plaster of Paris, is sulphate of lime. Sugar of lead is acetate of lead. Verdigris is basic acetate of copper. Vermilion is sulphide of mercury. Vinegar is acetic acid diluted. Vol- atile alkali is ammonia. Water is oxide of hydrogen. White precipitate is ammoniated mercury. White vitriol is sulphate of zinc. — Iron. Quantity and Weight of Water in Six Feet of Pipe of the Following Diameters : Diameter. Pounds. Gallons. 0.05 2.05 4.60 8.18 18.41 32.72 0.06 0.24 \Xi " 0.54 0.96 2.16 3.84 For double the diameter multiply contents four times. Weight of Lead Pipes per Foot: Diameter. No. 1. No. 2. No. 3. lbs. oz. 1 1 1 8 2 0 3 0 4 0 6 9 7 0 lbs. oz. i ii 2 11 3 11 4 11 7 00 8 9 lbs. oz. 2 00 2 14 4 7 5 9 8 5 10 00 Strength of Rope. A good rope will sustain a weight in pounds equal to the number of the square of the circumference in inches, multi- plied by 200. Thus, a rope three inches in circumference, or one inch in thickness, will sustain 1,800 pounds with safety. 3X3=9X 200=1,800 lbs. PETER HENDERSON'S WORKS. Gardening for Pleasure. — by peter Henderson. New Edition. Tells how to grow Flowers, Vegetables and small Fruits, in the Garden and Green-house ; also treats fully on Window and House Plants. It was specially written for ama- teurs— contains 404 pages, and is fully illustrated. Price, $2.00, post-paid. The scope of this book includes : Preparation of the Ground — Walks — The Lawn — Design for Gardens — Planting of Lawn and Flower Beds — Fall or Holland Bulbs, etc. — Propagation of Plants by Seeds — Propagation of Plants by- Cuttings— How Grafting and Budding are done— The Potting of Plants — Winter Flowering Plants — Plants suited for Summer Decoration — Window Gardening — Culture of Water Lilies and other Aquatic Plants — The Chrysanthemum — Parlor Gardening, or the Cultivation of Plants in Rooms— Green- houses attached to Dwellings — Detached Green-houses, Modes of Heating, etc. — Green-houses and Pits Without Artificial Heating— Flowers that will Grow in the Shade — Insects and other Parasites injurious to Plants — Humbugs in Horticulture — Hardy Grapes — The Cold Grapery — The Hot-house or Forcing Grapery — The Strawberry — The Vegetable Garden — Monthly Calendar of Operations. GARDENING FOR PROFIT.— By Peter Henderson. New Edition. A new, revised and greatly enlarged edition of this popular work. This book gives in detail our 2 5 years' expe- rience in Market Gardening, and a revised list of varieties in vegetables recommended for market culture. Written particularly for the Market Gardener, but is equally valuable for the Private Gardener. Fully illustrated; 375 pages. Price, $2.00, post-paid. Its contents are : The Forcing of all important Vegetables and Fruit under Glass— The Men Fitted for the Business —The Amount of Capital required and Working Force per Acre— Profits of Market Gardening— Loca- tion, Situation and Laying Out— Soils, Drainage and Preparation— Manures— The Uses and Management of Cold Frames— Protecting Cloth in lieu of Sashes— Spring raising of Cabbage, Cauliflower and Lettuce— Formation and Management of Hot-beds— Forcing Pits or Green-houses— Wide Green-houses for Vegetable Crops— Forcing Strawberries— Seeds and Seed Raising— How, When and Where to Sow Seeds— Transplanting— Vegetables, their Varieties and Cultivation— When to Sow and Plant in the Southern States— Packing of Vegetables for Shipping— Preservation of Vegetables in Winter— Insects — Culture of Small Fruits — Monthly Calendar of Operations. Garden and Farm Topics.— By peter Henderson. Tells how to Grow Bulbs, and contains essays on some special Green-house, Vegetable, Fruit and Farm Crops. Fully illus- trated; 244 pages. Price, $1.00, post-paid. 627 PETER HENDERSON'S WORKS. Practical Floriculture. — b7 pETEr Henderson. New Edition. Written particularly for the Commercial Florist, but equally valuable for the Amateur. This work teaches how flowers and plants can best be "grown for profit." It is admitted to be the leading authority on this subject. Fully illustrated, 325 pages. Price, $i.5o, post-paid. Some of the contents: How to become a Florist — The Profits of Floriculture — Aspect and Soil— The Preparation for New and the Renovation of Old Lawns — Laying out the Flower Garden — Designs for Ornamental Grounds and Flower Gardens — Planting of Flower Beds— Soils for Potting — Temperature and Moisture — The Potting of Plants — Drainage in Pots — Cold Frames for Winter Protection — Construction of Hot-beds — Green-house Structures — Glass, Glazing and Shading — Modes of Heating — Propagation of Plants by Seeds — Propagation of Plants by Cuttings — Propagating Roses by Grafting and Budding — Green-house Plants most in demand in Spring — Cold Frame Plants most sold in Spring — Plants most in demand for Window Decoration in Winter — Culture of Winter Flowering Plants for Cut Flowers — Rose Growing in Winter — Bulbs for Winter Flowers — Plants used for Decoration of Rooms — Construction of Bouquets, etc. — Hanging Baskets — Parlor or Window Gardening — Formation of Rock-work and Plants for Rocks — What Flowers will grow in the Shade — Succession Crops in the Green-house — Packing Plants — Plants by Mail — Insects and Diseases Affecting Plants — Mildew — Diary of Operations for the Year — The Culture of Grape Vines under Glass. HOW THE FARM PAYS.— By Messrs. Crozier and Hen- derson. An acknowledged authority for Farmers. Gives all of the Latest Methods of Growing Grass, Grain, Root Crops, Fruits, etc., and all about Stock, Farm Machinery, etc., etc. Price, $2.5o, post-paid. Some of the contents : Training for the Business of Farming — Agricultural College Education — Selection of Soils — Farm Roads — Draining — Manures and the Modes of Application — Special Fertilizers — Green Manuring — Fertilizing by Feeding — Plowing — Harrowing — Cultivating and Rolling Land — Use of the Feet in Sowing and Planting — Rotation of Crops — Crops for Soiling and Fodder — Soiling Crops — Abortion in Cows and its Causes — Grass and its Management — Varieties of Grasses — Mixed Grasses for Pasture and Hay — Cutting and Curing of Hay — Clover Hay — Ensilage — Ensilage compared with Roots — Live Stock of the Farm — Cows for the Dairy — Feed and Care for Milk and Butter — Young Cattle and their Care — Management of the Dairy — Farm Houses — Sheep — Swine — Farm Buildings — Fences — Rearing and Keeping Poultry — Pests of the Farm and the Remedies — Farm Machinery — Implements and Tools — Farm Culture of Vegetables and Fruits — Cabbage — Celery — Sweet Corn — Cucumbers for Pickles — Melons as a Market Crop — Onions — Culture of Principal Small Fruit Crops — Strawberries — Blackberries — Raspberries — Currants — Gooseberries — Grapes — Orchard Fruits, etc. 528 3 1 197 00440 7745 ;p i DATE DUE DEM CO 38-297