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A double border of great charm

A Little Book

of ^

Perennials

By ,

ALFRED C. HOTTES

DEPARTMENT OF HORTICUITtiRE
OHIO STATE IINIVERSITY

The "LITTLE BOOIC" Series

new york, n. y.
The a. T. De La Mare Company, Inc.

1923

THE A. T. DELA MARE COMPANY, INC.

NEW YORK, N. Y.

CONTENTS

J PAGE

^ Preface 10

The Perennial Garden 11

The Perennial Border 13

Garden Operations 17

Insects and Diseases 21

Propagation 23

For Shady Places 27

The Lists of Twenty-Fives 32

Noteworthy Perennials 40-158

Hardy Ferns 90

Ornamental Grasses 97

Herrs 108

Index of Plant Names 1.59-162

Tabular Cultural Index 163-170

11705

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS

A double border of great charm Frontispiece

PAGE

An arbor to frame portions of a perennial border 12

Plan for a backyard perennial border 14

A border cut through an orchard 16

Staking perennials 20

Perennials in a coldframe 24

Plantain or Day Lilies about a pool 27

Attractive groupings of lU'rennials 28

Tiarella cordifolia 30

Allegheny Vine or Adlumia 42

Adonis 43

Monkshood or Aconitum and Anchusa 4G

Japanese Anemone and Wild Asters 48

Columbines and Sea Pinks .'50

Arabis or Rock Cress 51

Butterfly Weed or Asclepias 54

False Indigo and English Daisy 59

Plume Poppy or Bocconia 60

Butterfly Bush or Buddleia 62

Canterbury Bells 64

Poppy Mallow, Turtle Head, Clematis and Carpathian Harebell 66

Snow-in-Summer and Coreopsis 69

Shasta Daisy, the giant among fortune tellers 74

Delphinium or Hardy Larkspur 76

Sweet William, an old favorite 78

Clove Pink,, incomparable for edging 79

Bleeding Heart and Gas Plant 80

A mass of Foxgloves we all may have 83

Leopard's Bane, Globe Thistle, Gaillardia and Purple Gone Flower. . 86

A Shaded Nook of Ferns and Plantain Lilies 91

Closed or Bottle Gentian 95

Giant Reed or Arundo 98

Helen's Flower or Helenium 103

Maximilian's Sunflower, one of the choicest late flowers of Fall 105

Lemon Lily and Kansas Gay Feather 107

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS 9

PAGE

Mallows or Hibiscus and Japanese Iris Ill

Tall Hollyhocks to greet us through the open window 113

Coral BeUs and Blue Flax 114

St. John's Wort or Hypericum 115

Lupines and Blue Lobeha 120

Purple Loosetrife or Lythrum 123

Maltese Cross, a form of Lychnis; Bee Balm or Monarda; the blazing

^ Oriental Poppy 126

Iceland Poppy 128

Missouri Evening Primrose or CEnothera 129

Peonies — everybody's flower 131

Types of Peonies 133

Hardy Phlox and Moss Pink or Phlox subulata 137

The rampant growing False Dragon Head; Torrey's Bearded Tongue;

Chinese Balloon Flower 140

Plumbago and Knotweed or Polygonum 142

Prhnroses 146

Pyre thrum or Pink Daisy and Matilija Poppy or Romneya 148

The Azure Sage is charming in the Fall months 150

The showy Stonecrop and Aruncus Sylvester or Goat's Beard 153

Meadow Rue or Thalictrum and Globe Flower or Trollius .155

Veronica 157

10 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

PREFACE

THIS "Little Book of Perennials" is the second of a series and
should serve as a companion to "The Little Book of Annuals."
In the "Garden Guide" many of these flowers were mentioned,
but there has been a demand to know more about them. The catalogs
of the commercial growers of perennials should serve as a supplement
to this book for they will deal more especially with the varieties. Each
grower will carry his own varieties which he has selected for color,
size or habit, and as these varieties are being constantly improved
the catalogs are invaluable.

An effort has been made to present only the most outstanding
perennials, flowers which are either so strong that they almost care
for themselves, or so exquisitely charming that they warrant any
amount of time in rearing them properly.

The author was assisted by Miss Egeva Wiseman in much of the
work involved in compiling this book. To her he acknowledges a
goodly share of the credit that may come to it. He owes a debt to the
many garden lovers who have told him their experiences — their suc-
cesses in culture and propagation. He hopes to enjoy the suggestions
of his readers and will welcome their corrections, additions and
criticisms,

Alfred C. Hottes.
Columbus, O., February. 1923.

THE PERENNIAL GARDEN 11

THE PERENNIAL GARDEN

PLANTS which hve year after year in the garden are known as
perennials. They include some of the old-fashioned flowers such

as Peonies, Phloxes and Larkspurs. It is a comphment to a
flower to call it "old-fashioned," for that indicates that the flower was
popular with our grandparents and was so worth while that we grow
them even today. Each nationahty coming to our shores has brought
with it the old favorites of the ancestral home. Here these flowers
have often become veritable weeds. The Eglantine, or Sweet Brier
Rose, is thought by many to be a wild Rose, but not so. It was intro-
duced by the English, perhaps even the Pilgrims. Such also is the
case with Bouncing Bet, Tansy and the Orange Day Lily. LIundreds
of real wild flowers are seldom considered such because they have been
in our gardens for years. The Bee Balm, Kentucky Blue BeU, Llelen's
Flower and the Blanket Flower are examples of native flowers found
about our own country in woods and gardens.

But of the vast array of flowers we should give a Httle thought to
their origin. Someone has greatly admired each of our plants where
they have transplanted them from the wild forest, the green meadow,
the shelving mountain ledge, the rocky brookside, the watery lowlands
or the level prairies. Someone has brought these flowers from flowery
Japan, tropic Africa, or from the home woodlot. Many have re-
sponded to care, but not a few others have had to be carefuUy bred.
Men have crossed and recrossed these plants, saved their seeds, fondled
their ofl'spring, chosen the best, and finaUy have, perhaps, named them
for friends or other men whose work or interest in flowers has earned
for them this signal honor.

Someone has truly written that the most beautiful gardens are
in the mind, not in the soil. The flowers in your own garden are always
more interesting than those in the gardens of another. They are the
results of your labor; there is the enjoyment of ownership; they are
your flowers.

Who is there with a flower garden who does not share these blooms
with his neighbor ? We should never fear to break up our clumps of
plants and give to our friends. Most plants need such division at
regular intervals. That garden becomes interesting which is made up

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

of plants given you by friends; each of these plants deserves careful
culture to bring it to such a state of perfection as will indicate your
appreciation of your friend, the giver. A pink Larkspur becomes
more than a Larkspur — it is a memory of Mrs. Neighbor or Mr.
Sharer.

The progressive garden lover should each year add some of the
best kinds of plants to his garden. We should note who sells the best,
who has contributed to the improvement of your favorite flowers and
purchase from them. What are the few cents in initial cost ? Some
kinds will increase tenfold in a year. Many seedsmen, flower special-
ists and nurserymen, send you their catalogs year after year at consid-
erable expense. They are anxious to render you every service. They
are encouraged to find that their efl'orts are not in vain and that
people are becoming increasingly interested in the better varieties.
When you ask for Peony Therese and Iris Isohne, they are pleased.
They know that you have passed the stage where "just Peonies and
just Iris" are sufiicient, because you are inquiring for some of the
improved varieties.

An arbor to frame portions of a perennial border. (See page 15)

THE PERENNIAL BORDER 13

THE PERENNIAL BORDER

PERENNIALS may be planted in any situation except hit and
niiss tliroughout a lawn. Pity in plenty should be showered upon
the man who must, cut a lawn in which a Peony, a Sw^et WiUiam
and a Phlox have been planted in the sod. Furthermore, it is not in
conformity with good taste to make small square, circular or star-
shaped beds. Someone has described such beds specked about the
greensward as "an Itahan pastry cook's idea of the beautiful." Let us
then have masses of our garden favorites bordering the driveways,
the fences, the law^n and the dooryard, or assign a definite garden area
and there plant our flowers.

PLANNING

A border may be formal or informal; the plants may be set in
definite ribbon-fike bands or placed in natural clumps. Generally, the
latter method is to be preferred unless we are planning a prim garden
of geometrical form on a large estate. Assuming, then, that enough
space is available, it is interesting to have two borders separated by a
grass, gravel or stone walk. To have the greatest satisfaction the
border should be planned on paper. Some persons will say that they
are gardeners, not draughtsmen, but no drawing abihty is necessary.
The idea of sketching is merely to place the plants properly.

HEIGHTS

Obviously, the tall plants should be at the back of the border, the
dwarf edging plants in the front and those of medium height tucked in
between the two extremes. Nevertheless, this rule should not be
followed too strictly, otherwise the result will give a border which will
be too monotonous. Allow bold groups of tall plants to come to the
front of the border. For the best efi'ects in the Springtime some of the
earliest dwarf plants may be planted toward the center to give a mass
of color throughout the width of the border.

WIDTH

Having mentioned the word "width" it may be said that the
border should be at least 4 feet wide; otherwise the grass roots will

THE PERENNIAL BORDER 15

intrude and rob the flowers. The border may be hZ feet or wider, in
which case larger masses of flowers may be planted. Nature produces
its flowers in profusion and so must we if our borders are to give us
the maximum satisfaction. Good, big eyefuls of color are impressive;
little dabs of color seem puny and artificial.

BACKGROUNDS

It is advisable to have a background for our perennials, especially
behind the shorter growing sorts. A lattice fence, a border of shrubs or
a hedge will serve to set ofl* the colors of the flowers. None but the
most robust perennials should be planted directly in front of a hedge
or border of shrubs, for the flowers are sure to be robbed of food and
moisture. Leave a space of 2 feet between the hedge and the bed of
flowers. Shrubs and conifers may be planted here and there in the
perennial border to advantage in order to produce bays of tall, green
foliage masses. The illustration on page 12 shows various sections of
a border framed by the arches of a pergola. When there is a border
on both sides of a walk much interest is added by arches across the
pathway. There need not be more than one or two in a border 50 feet
long. Too many arches would tend to detract from the border of
flowers.

SEASONS

Shall the truth be told or shall the usual advice be given again ?
The facts are these: it is extremely difficult to plan a border of any
size which shaU display a neat, tidy appearance and at the same time
shall be in bloom from April until frost. There will be unsightly spots
where some perennial has passed its season and where the neighboring
sorts have failed to cover the traces of the earlier sort. However, it is
possible by plaiming, care and transplanting to maintain such borders
of almost uninterrupted bloom.

Some persons prefer to have an entire border giving an attractive
Spring, Summer or Fall effect; others have pretty spots for each season.

There are optimists, however, who have planted the border for an
all-the-year-round effect and who fail to notice the bare spots, so
charmed are they by the choice flowers which are at any one time in
bloom. They are the same persons who do not say "Every Rose has
its thorn"; they say "It is remarkable that some thorns bear Roses."

Relative to seasons it must be said that care should be exercised
not to have too many of the early flower sorts toward the front unless
they retain their foliage until Fall. It is better to plant certain rather
permanent foliage plants as an edging.

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

A border cut through an orchard. Colors vie with each other and even detract
our attention from the building in the background.

COLOR

The color arrangement should be pleasing. Is this not a trite
statement ? And yet, what is pleasing to one is a jar to the tastes of
another. Rather love flowers and plant a riot of colors than fear to
infringe upon good taste by avoiding to plant. When your taste im-
proves you can transplant easily.

Read what Wm. Saville says about colors. He was speaking before
the Florists' Club of Philadelphia:

"It should be the aim in starting (as you enter the border from either
end)Xto have flowers of light coloring and foliage plants of gray-glaucous
or bluish leaf. As one passes to the center the color is allowed to become
stronger and stronger, untU in the center position we have one strong
color vying with another. There is a craze (which I have not seen success-
fully c£uried out) to have borders aU blue; or graduated from white to
pink; to golden; to bronze and up to crimson; but, in my opinion, a mixed
border is preferable."

W. J. Potter, of the Parks Department, Toronto, in a paper read
before The Canadian Horticultural Association once said:

"Color planting is more suitable for large gardens, where the eye rests
on the whole, or greater pau-t of the scheme. It also includes the choice

GARDEN OPERATIONS 17

and use of two colors or combinations, such as pink and blue (light), cream
and purple, golden yellow and deep blue, or orange and medium blue; or
a gradual blending down from an intense color, using several intermediate
shades. The yellow and orange shades always look weU and if separated
in good, generous blocks, cannot help but be effective. Blocks of white
flowers or green ornamental foliage will act as a foil where it is necessary
to use strong colors in heavy masses, reds and scarlets for example, that is
if both meet the eye at the same time. The blue Delphiniums, white and
pink Hollyhocks afford an example of good tones, but keep the reds and
maroons away. Gypsophila and purple Delphinium form an esthetic
combination. Place Golden Coreopsis against heavy foliage and deep
shadows. Plant Foxgloves among an underground of dwarfer material or
among evergreens in g roups. The composite flowers offer many delightful
combinations. One cannot err in their use, as the colors, for the most part,
can be caUed relative or harmonious. Examples include Heliopsis and
CalUmeris incisa, Stokesia and Shasta Daisy. These can be used also with
Golden Anthemis. Rudbeckia purpurea and Rudbeckia fulgida or sub-
tomentosa harmonize, and so on "ad infinitum." GoUections of Phlox
show off to much advantage if separated as to color, the scarlets from the
magentas and the pinks from the purples. Use the white forms between."

Whole books have been written deahng with color in the garden,
but these few remarks must sufTice. Plan a special color garden if your
fancy tells you to do so. In any case, avoid buying mixtures of flower
seeds; buy packets of colors which harmonize and make your own
mixture. Avoid variegated flowers; they appear muddy in the distance.
Avoid combining the various reds — the scarlets with the crimsons —
unless separated by masses of white flowers or foliage.

GARDEN OPERATIONS

NOTHING without labor" is the motto of the garden, although
it is true that some perennials require but little care. He who
loves the garden enough does not think of the labor but remem-
bers only the triumph of having lusty, flowering plants. He prepares
his soil properly, realizing that the camouflage of having a good surface
soil, but a poor soil beneath, fools persons but not plants. He talks
little about the bugs; he sprays them.

PREPARATION OF THE SOIL

Perennials must remain rather permanently in one place and for
this reason, if for no other, the soil should be deeply and thoroughly
prepared. UsuaUy good soil extends down only about a foot, yet many
of our perennials are deep rooting. For example, the leguminous and
the mallow plants prefer to strike downward. Most of our plants will
sufl'er less from drought in Midsummer if the roots are in the cool,

18 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

moisture-laden soil beneath. Therefore, dig the soil out to a depth of
18 to 24 in. and incorporate some well rotted manure into the dead
subsoil.

PLANTING

Some say it is best to prepare the border in the Fall, leaving the
soil rough and subject to the freezing action during the Winter, after
which it may be leveled and planted in the Spring.

Sweeping statements cannot be made about such diverse plants
as are here discussed, but it would seem that with the exception of
the most tender sorts, early Fall planting is advisable. There is not
as much to be done in the garden in the Fall. The plants, if trans-
ferred early enough, will become thoroughly established by Spring
and will start into growth earher and produce stronger root systems
which should enable them to withstand drought. In Autumn the soil
works more easily than in Spring, and retaining its Summer warmth,
induces root action. Another point worthy of consideration is the fact
that many times the nurseries are unable to supply us with just what
we want if we order too late in Spring, as they frequently are sold out
of popular varieties. Late Fall planting is to be avoided because the
plants should be thoroughly established before freezing, as resting
plants do not take hold of the soil.

In the descriptions of the perennials found in this little book the
best time for transplanting is usually given. The plants with ever-
green foliage are usually best moved in Spring, as are also the less
hardy sorts.

NOURISHMENT FOR PLANTS

Plants feed from air as well as soil, but it is within our power to
improve the soil nourishment only. It is generally agreed that the
physical condition of the soil is more important than its actual chemical
nature. A soil in good physical condition is well supplied with decayed
manure and is fibrous. It is easily worked and is teeming with bacteria
which work to release the plant food which most soil contains. The
big function of manure added to soil is to give the soil a good texture
and assist in releasing its hidden chemical resources. The three main
chemicals needed by plants are nitrates, phosphoric acid and potash.
Unless these elements are soluble in water they are not available to
the plants. Much of the value of fertilizers is to unlock these elements.

Lime Not a Fertilizer. The value of hme to soil is not that it
adds plant food, but that it combines with other substances and be-
comes useful to plants. It is of great value for other reasons as well.
It makes heavy soils looser, it makes sandy soils more compact, it

GARDEN OPERATIONS 19

sweetens sour soils and it increases the number of bacteria. There are
few gardens which have been cultivated for a period of years thai
would not benefit by an application of lime every three or four years.

Nitrogen Fertilizers. Animal manures contain nitrogen and
are generally beneficial to soils. Well decayed manure is usually ad-
vised because plant roots are frequently injured by contact with fresh
manure. Manure used as a Winter mulch may be worked into the soil
in the Spring, or manure may be placed in water and the manure water
may be applied to the plants.

Nitrate of soda, ammonium sulphate and such nitrate fertilizers
are strong drugs for plants. They add nothing to the physical condi-
tion of the soil but do supply a large quantity of nitrogen. Nitrogen
causes growth and larger flowers. These chemical fertilizers are dis-
solved in water and appHed to plants while they are growing. Too
much nitrogen causes excessive growth, delayed flowering and weak-
stemmed plants. These chemical nitrogen fertilizers may be applied
at the rate of one teaspoon to a gallon of water to make plants greener,
more rapid in growth and to increase the size of the flowers; used for
this purpose when the plants come into bud. Do not apply too strong
nor get the solution upon the leaves of the plants. Remember that it
is a drug and should be used accordingly.

BoNEMEAL. Bonemeal is one of the best general fertilizers for
flowers because it contains not only nitrogen but phosphorus. It is
useful for aU sorts of flowers and may be scattered over the soil so that
it is white. Cultivate this into the soil and the value of this fertilizer
will last through the season. There is no danger in applying too much.

Wood Ashes. The third great element, potash, is found in abun-
dance in unleached wood ashes. Most sofls contain quite enough
potash, but if one has some wood ashes it may be used with benefit
about the flower garden. A light covering of the soil, hoed in, will
be sufficient.

CULTIVATION

Perennials usually pay us for care by producing larger blooms
borne more continuously throughout the season. Few plants do well
in soil which is aUowed to bake in a stifl" crust at the surface of the soil.
It is weU to cultivate them with a hoe or smaU tool in such a way that
a loose layer of soil surrounds each plant. Air enters the soil, the
roots strike more deeply, the weeds are kept in check and less water
need be appfied to the plants when there is, what the gardener caUs, a
dust mulch about the plants.

In fieu of cultivation a mulch of manure or lawn clippings may be
placed around the plants.

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

WATERING

If the soil is properly prepared and cultivated water is only needed
in the perennial garden during the most severe droughts. Many plants
may be encouraged to bloom a second time if they are watered thor-
oughly and fertilized. Water plants leisurely, giving each clump a
good, long drink. Merely wetting the surface soil is injurious to the
plants because it coaxes the roots to the surface soil and makes them
susceptible to the hot sun which will parch these feeding roots. Fur-
thermore, the benefits of cultivation are destroyed by daily sprinkling
the surface of the soil.

STAKING

The taller and more slender grow-
ing plants need stakes. Too commonly
we note stakes in greater evidence than
plants. Make them inconspicuous by
painting them green, and place them in
the centers of the clumps so that the
growth may appear perfectly natural,
not bundled. Lower growing perennials,
such as Achillea The Pearl, which are
apt to sprawl about the garden, are
best supported by placing twiggy
branches of shrubs and trees among the
plants into which the shoots may grow.

No garden is quite as pretty as it
should be when the plants need stakes
and do not have them or when the
method of supporting the plants is
artificial in appearance.

SEED PODS AND WITHERED FLOW-
ERS

The hardest work a plant performs
is to produce seed, and so it is ever wise
to prevent seeding, thereby continuing
the season of bloom. The wise method
is to burn the old flowers as they harbor

thrips, a minute insect which destroys the beauty of many flowers.

Besides this matter of economizing the strength of the plants, gardens

going to seed are untidy; they show want of care.

Staking perennials. Note the
method of tying the heavy cord
about the stake first. This in-
sures the support from slipping
down.

INSECTS AND DISEASES 21

PROTECTION

Four factors are accountable for the winterkilling of perennials
and the main one is not the extreme cold. Drying winds are especially
detrimental to those which hold their foliage through the Winter.
Water standing upon the crown wiU kill most perennials. The alter-
nate freezing and thawing of the soil will cause much damage, because
it causes them to be lifted from the soil. Especially is this true of plants
set too late or of those plants having few fibrous roots.

Except wlien diseases are rampant in the garden, the tops of the
plants should not be removed until Spring because they tend to pro-
tect the plants by catcliing the snow. Leaves are frequently used as
a protecting material but they are harmful and actually smother the
plants unless the border is first covered with rough material so that
they cannot pack tightly over the crowns of the plants. Evergreen
plants, Sweet Williams, Hollyhocks and such plants, are easily pro-
tected if evergreen boughs are used. Remember that plants need a
parasol as much as they do an overcoat. Manure serves as a good
protection. However, it should be well decayed or strawy, not lumpy
and compact.

The protection is best applied after the ground is frozen. The
plants will then remain frozen. A mulch appUed too early will cause
the perennials to make a soft growth during the warm days of the Fall.

It is well to loosen but not remove the nmlch on the warm days of
early Spring. Take off the mulch when the date of the last kilhng frost
is passed.

INSECTS AND DISEASES

PERNICIOUS, vicious, obnoxious and throughly bad are the pests
and diseases of our perennial garden. The control of insects and
diseases has been mentioned under the plants affected, but here
must be stated some general facts and a few standard formulae given
for insecticides and fungicides.

INSECTS

Two big groups of insects bother our flowers: Those which chew
holes in the leaves, flowers and stems — the caterpillars, "worms,"
slugs, cut worms — for these stomach poisons are used; and those
which merely pierce through the tissues of plants and suck the juices
from them — aphids, Hce, leaf hoppers — for these contact insecticides
are used. ,^The,insect^must actually be hit, in which case it is smothered.

22 A LITTLE BOOK OF PEllEJNJNIALS

An insecticide which kills chewing mouth-part insects does not
necessarily kill those with sucking mouth-parts.

STOMACH POISONS FOR INSECTS WHICH EAT

Arsenate of Lead. This is the best one. It comes in powder and
paste form and is used at the rate of 1 oz. of paste or 14 oz. of powder
to 1 gal. of water. Apply as a spray. Soap may be added to help the
spray to stick to the plants. The powder may be dusted upon the
infested plants.

Poison Bait. For cut worms, grasshoppers and insects which are
difficult to locate, concoct a delicious death bait for them. Mix about a
teaspoon of arsenate of lead, a tablespoon of molasses and a little water
to each handful of wheat bran. Place a tablespoonful here and there
about the garden just before dark to kill cut worms. There is no danger
of killing birds with the bran if it is placed under a shingle or a piece
of wood where they cannot reach it.

CONTACT INSECTICIDES FOR INSECTS WHICH SUCK

Nicotine Extract. Nicotine is death to the Rose lice or any other
hce or sucking insects. It is purchased in a concentrated from and
should be used according to the directions upon the container in which
it is purchased. Soap added to the mixture will help it to adhere to
the bodies of the insects.

DISEASES

Plants are diseased when their normal activities are not func-
tioning properly or when they are the prey to fungi and harmful bac-
teria. The plants most crowded and not growing properly are most
seriously affected. Sunhght and proper air circulation are great pre-
ventives. Wet seasons favor diseases. Diseases are more easily pre-
vented than cured. It must be remembered that in killing a disease
we are confronted with the problem of killing one plant — the disease —
without kilHng the plant affected with this disease. Preventing disease
consists in refraining from planting any plant in the same spot year
after year; it consists further in the destruction by burning of any
part of the diseased plant; together with proper spraying. Spraying
with a fungicide may kill the fungus, but it never cures the leaf,
flower or stem affected. Its value lies in preventing the spread of
the disease to other parts of the plant. The control of fungous diseases
depends generally upon the use of copper and sulphur.

FUNGICIDES

Powdered or Flowers of Sulphur. This is useful in controlling
mildews, which are surface diseases characterized by a whitish powdery

PROPAGATION 23

appearance of the plants. If powdered sulphur is placed in a piece of
cheesecloth and sifted over the plants early in the morning when the
dew is on the plants, mildew can be checked from spreading. The
use of sulphur is more effective when the sun comes out on the day of
application, because the heat of the sun vaporizes the sulphur. It
may be needless to remark that the sulphur in no case should be
burned. Burning sulphur is most destructive of plant and animal life.

Bordeaux Mixture. Useful for Peony bud rot, Phlox mildew. Holly-
hock rust and many other diseases of perennials. It has the bad fault
of leaving a bluish white appearance upon the plants. Its use is there-
fore confined to the early stages of growth and may be sprayed upon
the soil in March and weekly thereafter until the plants become un-
sightly. Some persons believe, however, that a sUghtly white plant is
better than a diseased or dead one and always spray with Bordeaux
mixture.

Bordeaux mixture may be purchased already prepared. It is
most easily handled. The amateur who makes his own loses rather
than gains. To make this fungicide we use 1 oz. copper sulphate (blue
stone) and a little over 1 oz. of hydrated lime to 1 gal. of water. Dis-
solve each, the lime and the copper sulphate, in a quart of water before
mixing the two. It is better to have too much Ume than too little.

Ammoniacal Copper Carbonate. This is used for the same purpose
as Bordeaux mixture but is not quite as effective. It does not leave a
precipitate upon the fob'age. To make a small quantity, dissolve 5
drams of copper carbonate in as much ammonia as is needed (usually
one pint). This stock solution, if bottled, will keep. It is sufficient
to make 10 gals, of spray when water is added.

PROPAGATION

ONE of the most fascinating things of a garden is the propagation
of our favorites, whereby we may increase the number of plants
to be set in other parts of the garden. We always require a few
extra plants to fill in bare spots and we must have some young plants
to give to our flower loving friends.

Perennials may be easily propagated from seed, division, cuttings
and layers.

SOWING SEED

Annuals are raised from seed because it is the simplest method of
raising the plants, and for the same reason some perennials are also

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

grown from seed. However, many perennials are not propagated by
this method because they are hybrid in nature and do not come true
to the variety. Peonies, Irises, Phloxes and scores of others are failures
when grown from seed, except for those who are interested in seeing
just what the result might be. Furthermore, it takes a long time to
get some perennials to bloom when raised from seed.

Nevertheless, for the scores which are not good, there are hun-
dreds of perennials which are highly successful.

TIME TO SOW

In order that we may have large plants for our gardens, the seeds
are best sown in May, June or July, unless otherwise noted in subse-
quent notes under the alphabetical list. Certain plants make little
growth when sown late; certain others germinate slowly. Gaillardias,
Shasta Daisies, Chinese Larkspur, Platycodon, Hibiscus, Iceland
Poppy, Lychnis and some other perennials bloom the first year from
seed if sown in early Spring; most other perennials do not.

Forget-me-nots, EngUsh Daisies, Hollyhocks, Oriental Poppy,
Sweet WilUams and Pansies are best sown in August, otherwise the
plants are apt to become too large for convenient handhng in the
Spring.

THE WAY TO SOW

Those persons who would raise perennials from seed should have a
coldframe. The well prepared soil in the frame should be several inches
above the soil outside the frame so that the frame may have perfect
drainage. After sowing the seed thinly in rows it should be covered
with sand, leafmold or fine soil, the depth of covering to depend upon
the size of the seed. Fine seed should be covered with a piece of burlap
but no soil. Large seeds may be safely covered twice their diameter.

Perennials in a coldframe.

PROPAGATION 25

\\ater the frame with a sprmkliiig can. Cover the frame with the
sash and shade it with cloth or whitewash. Raise the sash a few inches
when the smi is bright. According to the species the seed will ger-
minate in from four days to several months.

CARE OF SEEDLINGS

Many of the seedlings will be very small but if they are crowded
they should be transplanted when they have produced a couple of
leaves. Allowing the sash to remain closed during hot weather, keep-
ing them shaded on dull days, and letting the seedlings stand too closely
will result in damping-off, a disease very destructive to young seedhngs.
The smaUer sort of seedhngs and those of the less hardy species of
plants should be transplanted to another part of the frame so that they
stand 3 inches to 5 inches apart. The seedhngs which are large, rapid
growing and hardy may be transplanted to the open soil where they
remain for the Winter, providing this is done before September.

The hot days of Summer will necessitate frequent watering of the
seedlings. Let the watering be thorough.

DIVIDING PERENNIALS

Usually perennials are more easily propagated by division than by
any other means. This is true of certain of the more rampant growers,
especially the hardy Asters, the perennial Sunflowers, Heleniums, Achil-
leas, Roltonias, Hardy Chrysanthemums, Shasta Daisies and Sweet Wil-
hams. Certain other perennials are impatient of being moved and
seem to thrive for years without being disturbed; namely, Peonies,
Gypsophila, Bleeding Heart, Lupinus, Papaver, Gas Plant, Asclepias,
Adonis, Anemone japonica and Tritomas. On the other hand, Phlox,
Iris, Columbines, Delphiniums and such other medium-rapid pro-
ducers should be divided every three or four years, depending upon
the appearance of the clumps. Transplant them when the crowns
become woody or hollow and the flowers smaller.

Generally speaking, the early flowered sorts should be divided in
August and the later blooming plants in the early Spring. Because
the new roots of Irises and Peonies are produced in early Fall, it seems
wise to transplant these two old favorites during July or August.

Delphiniums require careful manipulation when they are divided,
for each division should have a good piece of crown and some roots.
Difficult subjects should have the soil washed from the roots, so that
the cuts may be made in the proper places.

In dividing perennials it is not necessary that they be separated
into extremely small pieces, otherwise their garden value will be

26 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

destroyed. However, small sinj^le-eye divisions may be set about a
foot apart to form a good sized clump, in which case the plants usually
present the same appearance as before, except that the flowers will be
larger.

LAYERS

A modification of dividing perennials is to prepare them for division <
by covering the plants with sandy soil or clean sand. It is not neces-
sary to bury the plants, but merely fill in between the spaces where
the branches have become long, traihng and leggy. We have in mind
especially the Grass Pinks, Sweet William, Campanula carpatica and
Arabis.

CUTTINGS

Few amateur gardeners avail themselves of a method of increasing
perennials by cuttings. When certain of the plants are 6 inches or
8 inches tall, the tops may be cut out and placed in a box of sand to
root. Gutting back the plants in this way is not usually detrimental
to them but causes branching. Care need be exercised that there are
several eyes below the cut so that the parent plant can continue its
growth. The easiest sorts that may be grown in this way are:

Arabis (Rock Cress) Hollyhock

AscLEPiAS (Butterfly Weed) Iberis (Candytuft)

Gerastium (Snow-on-the-Moun- Lobelia

gSanthemum Lythrum (Loosestrife)

Clematis (Virgin's Bower) Perennial Sunflower

Dahlia Phlox

Delphinium Pinks

Helenium (Helen's Flower) Potentilla (Five Finger)

FOR SHADY PLAGES

FOR SHADY PLACES

IN every garden there is some shady spot in which we try to grow
flowers. Lists might be suggested which would include certain
plants which prefer shade, or those which tolerate shade, or those
which prefer shade but an abundance of moisture, or those which require
sun in early Spring, but wliich may be shaded later in the year by .sur-
rounding plants which grow and overtop these Spring flowers.

It must be noted, however, that few plants wifl grow in dense
shade: siin for a part of the day seems necessary for obtaining blooms.

Usually shade is accompanied by poor and a very dry soil,
due to the presence of trees which drink up every drop of available
moisture. Beech, Elm, Maple and other surface-rooting trees are the
worst ofl'enders. Oak and Hickory roots go deeper and there is
usually less trouble in growing plants beneath them. Because we are
laboring under these difliculties, it is wise to remove some of the sur-
face roots and prepare the soil thoroughly.

Plaintain or Day Lilies about a pool. These flowers are especially attractive
in shady places. (See page 29.)

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Attractive groupings of perennials; iipper section, a shady corner; loiver section,

a Spring corner; center section, a group of plants of hearty character blooming in

the late Summer and Fall.

FOR SHADY PLACES 29

GARDEN FLOWERS FOR SHADY PLACES

*Dry soil. xxCiood, refined ground cover.

tAverage moist soil. -Spring flowering native plants,

•i Boggy, very moist soil. , ,. , ,

o Partial shade. "^^ which deserve a place in

xG round cover in rough places. the garden.

foALKANET {Anchiisa italica). Deep blue.
foANEMONE, Japanese {Anemone japonica). White, pink.
t*oAsTER, Hardy {Aster, various). Purple, white.

foBALLOON Flower, Chinese {Platycodon grandijlorum). Blue, white.
lltoBEE Balm {Monarda, various). Scarlet, purple.
*xxBisHOp's Weed {.Egopodium Podagraria). Variegated leaves.
*o-Black-eyed Susan {Rudbeckia, several). Yellow, d ark center.

foBiEEDiNG Heart {Dicenlra eximia and specfabilis. Carmine.
*xxBugle {Ajuga, various). Purple, pink.
*oGandytuft {Iberis senipervirens). White.
f-CARDiNAL Flower (Lobelia cardinnlis). Cardinal.
*-CoLU]MBiNE {Aquilegia, various). Various.
*oCrane's-bill {Geranium sanguineum). Rosy-purple.

*CoRAL Bells {Heuchera sanguinea). Coral, white.
to(]owsLip, English {Primula, various). Various.
foDAY Lily {Funkia subcordata and others). Purple, white.
*o-Evening Primrose, Missouri {(Enothera missouriensis). Yellow.
Ferns :

t Christmas Fern (Aspidium acrostichoides).
t Cinnamon Fern {Osmunda cinnamomea).
t Climbing Fern {Lygodium palmatum).

* Interrupted Fern {Osmunda Clayloniana) .
t Lady Fern {Asplenium Filix-fcemina).

t Maidenhair Fern {Adiantum pedatum)

* Polypody', Common {Polypodium vulgare).
t Royal Fern {Osmunda regalis).

* Sensitive Fern {Onoclea sensibilis).

* Spleenwort, Ebony {Asplenium ebeneum).
^-Forget-me-not (A/yo50^is palustris). Light blue.
foFoxGLOVE {Digitalis purpurea). Lavender rose.
foGAs Plant {Dictamnus albus). Rosy purple, white.

*toGAY Feather, Kansas {Liatris pycnostachya) . Rosy purple.
IGlobe Flower (Trollius europxus). Golden yellow.
*GoLDENROD {SoUdago CcPsia and others). Yellow.
\ or *-Harebell {Campanula rotund ijolia). Blue.
foKiNG's Spear {Asphodeline lutea) . Yellow.
IoLemon Lily (Ilemerocallis flava). Lemon.
fxxLiLY-OF-THE-VALLEY {Convallaria majalis). White.
tIfoLoosESTRiFE, PuRPLE {Lyt/irum Salicaria). Purple.

IoMaltese Cross {Lychnis chalcedonica) . Scarlet.
tlloMARSH Mallow (Ilibiscus moscheutos). Various.
t*-MEADOW^ Rue {TItalictrum, various).- Purplish white.
fMoNKSHOOD {Aconiium, various). Violet, yellow, white.
xxf-Moss Pink {Phlox subulala). Rosy lavender.
^^foMuLLEiN Pink {Lychnis coronaria). Bright rose.

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

foPANSY (Viola tricolor). Various.

foPEA, Perennial {Laihyrus latifolius). Rose, white.

foPHEASANT's Eye (Adouis, various). Yellow.

JoRed-hot Poker {Kniphofia alooides). Bright scarlet.

foSx. John's Wort {Hypericum, various). Yellow.
*xxSpeedwell {Veronica rupeslris). Violet.
*Spir/EA {Spirsea Aruncus). White.

foSpiR^A {Spiraea palmata). Crimson.
*xxSpurge, Mountain {Pachysandra terminalis). White.
xxfo-STONECROP {SeduTTi, various). Yellow, pink, white.

f-SwEET William, Wild {Phlox divaricaia). Lavender.

o-Trillium {Trillium, various). White, red.
of-ViOLET {Viola, various). Purple, yellow, white,
fo- Virginia Cowslip {Mertensia virginica). Blue.

toWooDRUFF, Sweet {Asperula odoraia). White.

SPRING WILD FLOWERS

A characteristic of the once wooded areas of our country is the
unending display of Spring flowers. Some persons have wondered why

we have many more
wild Spring flowers
than Summer blooms.
These dainty gems
must hasten to pro-
duce their blossoms
before the trees over-
head shade them too
much. Most of this
class of plants do not
retain their foliage
through the season
and are reaUy un-
sightly or actually
disappear from view
in June or July.
Every garden of any
size should make
room for a bed of wild
flowers. Lucky is he
whose property in-
cludes a bit of the
natural forest and
wealthy beyond esti-
mation is he who has
a small trickling

Tiarella cordifolia, the Foam Flower. Stream. FloWCrS are

FOR SHADY PLAGES 31

never more enjoyable than early in Spring. After the Winter we look
forward to these denizens of the woods. The true lover of wild flowers
does not devastate; by digging some from the forest, he preserves them.

WILD FLOWERS

Spring blooming native plants which require the sun in Spring
but which will tolerate shade in Summer. Excellent for naturalizing.

fANEMONE, Rue Anemonella thalictroides

JAnemone, Wood Anemone quinquefolia

Baiveberry Adxa alba, rubra

fBELLwoRT Uvularia grandiflora

fxxoBLOOD Root Sanguinaria canadensis

IBlue-Eyed Grass Sisyrinchium angusiifolium

fBLUET Houstonia coerulea

fGoNTONiA Clintonia borealis

GoHOCH, Blue Caulophyllum thalictroides

fxGoLx's Foot Tussilago Farfara

*oCrane's-bill '. Geranium maculatum

tlxGREEPiNG Jenny Lysimachia nummularia

fDoG-TooTH Violet Erythronium americanum

Dutchman's Breeches Dicentra Cucullaria

Foam Flower Tiarella cordifolia

fGiNGER, Wild Asarum canadense

xfGROUND Ivy Nepeta Glechoma

fHEPATicA Hepatica triloba, acutiloba

JJack-in-a-Pulpit Arissema triphyllum

foJACOB's Ladder Polemonium reptans

^Lady Slipper, Pink Cypripedium acaule

JLady Slipper, Yellow Cypripedium pubescens

*LuPiNE Lupinus perennis

^Marsh Marigold Caltha palustris

May Apple Podophyllum peltaium

MiTREwoRT Mitella diphylla

xxfMvRTLE, Periwinkle Vinca minor

xPartridge Berry Mitchella repens

*PiPSissEWA Chimaphila umbellata

*Saxifrage, Early Saxifraga virginiensis

SraN Leaf Pyrola, various

toSnooTiNG Star Dodecatheon Media

Solomon's Seal Polygonatum biflorum

Solomon's Seal, False Smilacina racemosa

fSguiRREL's Corn Dicentra canadensis

^oSpiderwort Tradescantia virginica

Spring Beauty Claytonia virginica

*Star Grass Hypoxis hirsuta

TooTHWORT. Deniaria diphylla

ITrillium Trillium, various

II fTuRTLEHEAD Chelonc glabra

JTwiN Leaf Jeffersonia diphylla

fViOLET Viola, various

IxxoWater Leaf Hydrophyllum

tWiNDFLOWER Ancmone, various

Wood Betony Pedicularis canadensis

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

THE LISTS OF TWENTY-FIVES

TWENTY-FIVE PERENNIALS FOR DRY PLACES

Achillea Millefolium roseum
(Rosy Milfoil)

Ajuga genevensis (Bugle)

Anthemis tinctoria (Yellow Mar-
guerite)

Asclepias tuber OS a (Butterfly
Weed)

Aster, various (Michaelmas Daisy)

CALLIRHOJi INVOLUCRATA (Poppy

Mallow)

Cassia ]vl^.rilandica (American
Senna)

Coreopsis lanceolata grandi-
FLORA (Tickseed)

DiANTHUs BARBATUS (Sweet Wil-
liam)

EcHiNOPS RiTRO (Globe Thistle)

Euphorbia corollata (Flowering
Spurge)

Gypsophila paniculata (Baby's
Breath)

Helianthus, various (Perennial
Sunflower)

Hemerocallis, various (Day Lily)

Iris, Bearded

Leontopodium alpinum (Edelweiss)

Lychnis coronaria (Mullein Pink)

Oenothera missouriensis (Mis-
souri Evening Primrose)

Opuntia, various (Hardy Cactus)

Papaver nudicaule (Iceland
Poppy)

Phlox, Hardy

RUDBECKIA LAGINIATA (Goldcn

Glow)
Statice latifolia (Sea Lavender)
Veronica rupestris (Speedwell)
Yucca filamentosa (Adam's

Needle)

TWENTY-FIVE PERENNIALS FOR WET PLACES

*May be grown in the water.

*Arundo Donax (Giant Reed)
Asclepias incarnata (Swamp

Milkweed)
BoLTONiA ASTER oiDES (Starwort)
*Caltha palustris (Marsh Mari-
gold)
P^uLALiA JAPONICA (Zebra Grass)

EUPATORIUM PERFOLIATUM (BonC-

set)

EUPATORIUM PURPUREUM (JoC Pye

Weed)
Ferns

Onoclea sensibilis (Sensitive
Fern)

Osmunda regalis (Royal Fern)

OsMUNDA cinnamomea (Cinna-
mon Fern)
Helenium autumnale (Helen's

Flower)
Hibiscus moscheutos (Marsh

Mallow)

*1ris pseudacorus (European Yel-
low Flag)
I. siBiRicA (Siberian Iris)
* I. VERSICOLOR (Native Blue

Flag)
Lobelia cardinalis (Cardinal
Flower)
L. SYPHILITICA (Great Lobelia)
Lysimachia clethroides (Pep-

perbush Loosestrife)
Lythrum salicaria (Purple

Loosestrife)
Myosotis palustris (Forget-me-
not)
*Pontederia cordata (Pickerel

Weed)
Ranunculus, several (Buttercup)
*Sagittaria latifolia (Arrow-
head)
*Sarracenia purpurea (Pitcher

Plant)
*Typha latifolia (Gat- tail)

THE LISTS OF TWENTY-FIVES

TWENTY-FIVE PERENNIALS FOR ROCK GARDENS

A.CHILLEA TOMENTOSA (Woolv Mil-
foil)

Alyssum saxatile (Gold Dust)
Aquilegia, various (Columbine)
Arabis alpina (Rock Cress)
Armeria maritima and others (Sea

Thrift)
Campanula carpatica, rotutvdi-

FOLiA (Harebells)
Cerastium tomentosum (Snow-in-

Sununer)
Geranhjm, various (Crane's-biU)
Geum coccineum (Avens)
Heuchera SAN guinea (Coral Bells)
Iberis gibraltarica, semper vir-

ENS (Candytuft)
Iris cristata, pumila, verna

(Baby Iris)
Myosotis alpestris, sylvatica

(Forget-me-not)

OENOTHERA missouriensis (Mis-
souri Evening Primrose)

Papaver nudicaule (Iceland
Poppy)

Phlox am(ena, divaricata, subu-

LATA (Phlox)

Plumbago Larpent^e (Leadwort)
Primula, various (Primroses, Cow-
slips)
Saponaria ocymoides (Soapwort)
Sedum, various (Stonecrop)
Statige latifolia (Sea Lavender)
Thalictrum, various (Meadow

Rue)
Tunica Saxifraga (Tunica)
Veronica incana, longifolia, re-
pens, RUPESTRis, spiCATA (Speed-
Well)
Viola cornuta (Tufted Pansy)

TWENTY-FIVE BEST PERENNIALS FOR CUT FLOWERS

Achillea Millefolium roseum
(Rosy Milfoil)

A. Ptarmica (The Peari)
Anemone japonica (Japanese

Anemone)
Aster, St. Egwyn (Michaehnas

Daisy)
Centaurea, various (Cornflowers)
Chrysanthemum, Hardy
Chrysanthemum maximum (Shasta

Daisy)
Coreopsis lance olata grandi-

flora (Tickseed)
Delphinium, hybrids (Larkspur)
DiANTHus barbatus (Swect Wil-
liam)

D. plumarius (Clove Pink)
Gaillakdia grandiflora (Blanket

Flower)
Gypsophila, various (Baby's

Breath)

Helenium autumn ale, Riverton
Beauty (Helen's Flower)
H. AUTUMNALE, Rivertou Gem
(Helen's Flower)

Helianthus multiflorus (Hardy
Sunflower)

Iris, various (Flag)

P^ONiA (Peony)

Physostegia virginica (False
Dragon Head)

Pyrethrum roseum (Pink Daisy)

Rudbeckia, various (Coneflower)

Salvia azurea grandiflora
(Hardy Blue Sage)

Sedum'spectabile^ (Showy Stone-
crop)

Kniphofia alooides (Red-hot Po-
ker) ttk

Veronica longifolia subsessilis
(SpeedweU)

TWENTY-FIVE EDGING PLANTS

(Less than a foot tall.)
-(Egopodium Podagraria (Bishop's Alyssum saxatile

Weed)
Ajuga reptans (Bugle)

gompactum
(Gold Dust)
Arabis alpina (Rock Cress)

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

TWENTY-FIVE EDGING PLANTS

(Less than a foot tall.)

Continued

Armeria maritima (Thrift)
Bellis perennis (I^nghsh Daisy)
Campanula carpatica (Carpathian

Harebell)
Cerastium tomentosa (Snow-in-

Summer)
Crucianella stylosa (Crosswort)
DiANTHUS BARBATUS (Sweet Wil-
liam)
DiANTHUS PLUMARius (Clove Pink)
Dicentra eximia (Plumed Bleed-
ing Heart)
Festuca glauca (Blue Fescue
Grass)

FiLiPENDULA Ulmaria (Meadow

Sweet)
Heuchera sanguinea (Coral Bells)
Iberis SEMPER virens (Caudutyft)
Iris pumila (Dwarf Iris)
Papaver nudicaule (Iceland

Poppy)
Phlox subulata (Moss Pink)
Plumbago Larpent/E (Leadwort)
Primula veris (Primrose)
Sedum, various (Stone Crop)
Tunica saxifraga (Tunica)
Veronica incana (Hoary Speed-

weU)
Veronica rupestris (Rock Speed-
well)

TWENTY-FIVE TALLEST PLANTS

(All are above five feet tall)
Excellent for bold foliage and flower effects.

AuTHyEA ROSEA (Hollyhock)

Arundo Donax (Giant Reed)
Aster nov^-angli^ (New Eng-
land Aster)
Aster tataricus (Tartarian Aster)
BoccoNiA cord ATA (Plumcd

Poppy)
BoLTONiA asteroides (Starwoit)
Campanula pyramidalis (Chimney

Bellflower)
Cassia marilandica (American
Senna)

CePHALARIA MONTANA (Rouud-

heads)
CiMiciFUGA RACEMOSA (Bugbanc)
Delphinium (Larkspur)
Eremurus robustus (King's Spear)
Erianthus Ravenna (Plume

Grass)
EulaCia japonica (Zebra Grass)

EuPATORiuM PURPUREUM (Joc Pye

Weed)
Helenium autumnale (Helen's

Flower)
Helianthus Maximilianii (Maxi-
milian's Sunflower)

H. ORGYALis (Narrow-leaved
Sunflower)
Hibiscus moscheutos (Mallow

Marvels)
Polygonum Sieboldii (Giant

Knotweed)
RuDBECKiA laciniata (Goldcu
Glow)

R. maxima (Coneflower)
Solidago altissima, various (Gold-

enrod)
Valeriana officinalis (Garden

Heliotrope)
Yucca filamentosa (Adam's

Needle)

MORE THAN TWENTY-FIVE BLUE PERENNIALS

Baptisia tinctoria (False Indigo) .
Deep blue

Anchusa italica, Dropmore va-
riety (Italian Borage) . Deep blue

Aquilegia ccerulea (Columbine).
Deep blue

Aster alpinus, tataricus and
others. Light blue

Campanula carpatica, persici-

FOLiA, Medium and others
Centaurea MONTANA. Deep blue
Clematis Davidiana. Deep blue

THE LISTS OF TWENTY-FIVES

MORE THAN TWENTY-FIVE BLUE PERENNIALS -Continued

Delphinium grandiflorum, Gold
iVledal Hybrids, Bellamoum,
Deep and light blue

EcHiNOPS RiTRO (Globe Thistle).
Deep blue

EUPATORIUM CtELESTINUM (Mist

Flower). Medium blue

Eryngium amethystinum (Sea
Holly). Deep blue.

FuNKiA ctERULEA (Plantain Lily).
Deep blue.

Iris Pallida Dalmatica, pumila
and others. Deep and light blue

LiNUM PERENNE (Flax). De-^p blue

Lobelia syphilitica (Blue Lo-
belia). Deep blue

LupiNUS POLYPHYLLUS (Lupine).
Deep blue.

Mertensia virginica (Virginian

Cowslip). Clear blue
Myosotis (Forget-me-not). Light

blue
Nepeta GLEchoMA (Ground Ivy).

Light blue
Plumbago Larpent/E. Deepest

blue

POLEMONIUM CCERULEUM, HUMILE

and REPTANS (Jacob's Ladder).
Light blue

PULMONARIA ANGUSTIFOLIA AZU-

REA. Clear blue
ScABiosA CAUCASICA (PincushioH

Flower). Light blue
Tradescantia VIRGINICA (SpidcF-

wort). Deep blue
Veronica rupestris, spicata and

others (Speedwell). Deep blue

TWENTY-FIVE MOST USED WHITE PERENNIALS FOR
GARDEN EFFECT

Achillea Ptarmica, The Pearl

2 ft., July-Sept.

Anemone japonica, Whirlwind
(Japanese Anemone), 2-3 ft.. Fall

Aquilegia vulgaris nivea (Col-
umbine). 2 ft.. May

Arabis alpina (Rock Cress), 1 ft.,
April

Aster ptarmicoides (Michaelmas
Daisy), VA ft., Aug.

Cerastium tomentosum (Snow-in-
Summer), 9 in.. May

Campanula carpatica alba (Car-
pathian Harebell), 9 in., June-
Oct.

C. PERSICIFOLIA ALBA (Peach-

bells), 2 ft., June-July
Chrysanthemum (Shasta Daisy),

VA ft., May- July
C. ULIGINOSUM (Giant Daisy),

4 ft., Sept.-Oct.
Clematis recta (Virgin's Bower),

3 ft., June- July
Delphinium grandiflorum alba

(Chinese Larkspur), 2 ft., July-
Sept.
Filipendula ulmaria (Meadow
Sweet), l}4 ft., June- July

Funkia grandiflora (Plantain

Lily), VA ft., July
Gypsophila paniculata and acu-

tifolia (Baby's Breath), 2-3 ft.,

June-July
Hibiscus oculiroseus (Marvel

Mallow, Crimson Eye), 4 ft.,

July-Sept.
Hollyhock, 6-8 ft., June
Iberis sempervirens (Hardy Can-
dytuft), 1 ft., April
Iris sibirica. Snow Queen (Siberian

Iris), 3 ft., June
Lysimachia clethroides (Loose-
strife), 2 ft., July-Sept.
Phlox suffruticosa. Miss Lin-

gard (Hardy Phlox), 3 ft., June
Physostegia virginica alba

(False Dragon Head), 3 ft.,

June-July
Valeriana officinalis (Valerian),

4 ft., June- July
Veronica virginica (Speedwell),

3-4 ft., July-Aug.
Yucca filamentosa (Adam's

Needle), :,4 ft., July

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

TWENTY-FIVE DAISY-LIKE FLOWERS OF VARIOUS COLORS

Anthemis tinctoria (Yellow Mar-
guerite). Lemon, yellow
Aster l^vis (Smooth-leaved Aster)
Lilac lavender
A. NOViE-ANGLi^ (New England

Aster). Purple
A. NOVi-BELGii, St. Egwyn. Pink

A. pTARMicoiDES. White.
Bellis perennis (English Daisy).

Crimson to white
BoLTONiA ASTER oiDES (False Star-
wort). White

B. LATiSQUAMA (False Starwort).
Pinkish lavender

Chrysanthemum maximum (Shasta
Daisy). White

C. uliginosum (Giant Daisy).
White

Coreopsis lance olata grandi-
FLORA (Tickseed). Golden

DoRONicuM, various (Leopard's-
bane). Golden

Echinacea purpurea (Purple
Coneflower). Rosy purple

Erigeron, various (Fleabane).

Rosy purple to white
Gaillardia aristata (Bleinket

Flower). Yellow and crimson
Helenium autumnale, Riverton
Gem and others. Maroon to
gold
H. HooPESii (Helen's Flower).
YeUow
Helianthus Maximilianh (Maxi-
milian's Sunflower). Gold
H. ORGYALis (Fine-leaved Sun-
flower). Gold
Heliopsis scabra, Excelsior (Gold-
en Sunflower). Gold
Inula ensifolia (Elecampane).

YeUow
Lepachys pinnata (Gray-headed

Coneflower). Yellow
Pyrethrum roseum (Pink Daisy).

Crimson to white
RuDBECKiA maxima (Coueflower).
Gold
R. Newmanii (Coneflower). Gold,
purple cone

TWENTY-FIVE PERENNIALS FOR APRIL BLOOM

Adonis amurensis (Amoor Pheas-
ant's Eye)
A. VERNALis (Spring Pheasant's
Eye)
Alyssum saxatile (Gold Dust)
Arabis alpina (Rock Cress)

AUBRIETIA DELTOIDEA (PuFplc Rock

Cress)

Bellis perennis (English Daisy)

Caltha palustris (Marsh Mari-
gold)

Claytonia virginica (Spring
Beauty)

Daphne Cneorum (Garland Flow-
er)

Dicentra canadensis (Squirrel
Corn)
D. Gucullaria (Dutchman's
Breeches)

DoRONicuM, various (Leopard'a
Bane)

Erythronium americanum (Yel-
low Adder's Tongue)

Hepatica triloba (Hepatica)

Iberis sempervirens (Hardy Can-
tuft)

Iris pumila (Baby Iris)

Mertensia virginica (Virginia
Cowshp)

Papaver nudicaule (Iceland
Poppy)

Phlox divaricata (Wild Sweet
Wflliam)

P. SUBULATA (Moss Piuk)

Primula, various (Cowshp, Prim-
rose)

Sanguinaria canadensis (Blood-
root)

Saxifraga cordifolia (Saxifrage)

Thalictrum dioicum (Meadow
Rue)

Trillium, various (Wake Robin)

THE LISTS OF TWENTY-FIVES

TWENTY-FIVE PERENNIALS FOR MAY BLOOM

Ajuga rkptans (Bugle)
Alyssum saxatilk (GoM DusI)
Aquilegia, various (Columbine)
Bellis perennis (English Daisy)
CoNVALLARiA MAjALis (Lily-of-the-

Valley)
DiANTHUs BARBATUS (Swcct Wil-
liam)

D. PLUMARius (Glove Pink)

DiCENTRA (DiELYTRA) SPEGTABILIS

(Bleeding Heart)
Epimedium, various (Bishop's Hat)
Helenium Hoopesii (Early Helen's

Flower)
Iberis sempervirens (Hardy Gan-

dytuft)

This i«i,t)RKNTiNA (Florentine Iris)

I. INTERMEDIATE VARS.

I. PUMILA (Baby Iris)

I. VERNA

Mertensia virginica (Virginia

Gowslip)
Myosotis, various (Forget-me-not)
OENOTHERA FRUTicosA (Evening

Primrose)
P^ONiA M OUT AN (Shrubby Peony)

POLEMONIUM CCERULEUM (JaCOb's

Ladder)
Primula, various (Gowslip)
Pyrethrum roseum (Pink Daisy)
Sedum acre (Wall Pepper)
Trollius europ^us (Globe Flow-
er)
Viola tricolor (Pansy)

TWENTY-FIVE PERENNIALS FOR JUNE BLOOM

Achillea Millefolium roseum
(Rosy Milfoil)
A. Ptarmica (The Pearl)
A. tomentosa (Wooly Yarrow)

Campanula Medium (Canterbury
BeUs)
G, persicifolia (Peach Bells)

Chrysanthemum maximum (Shasta
Daisy)

Coreopsis lance ol at a grandi-
FLORA (Tickseed)

Delphinium, various (Hardy Lark-
spur)

Dianthus BARBATUS (Sweet Wil-
liam)
D. PLUMARIUS (Clove Pink)

DiCTAMNUS ALBUS (Gas Plant)

Digitalis, various (Foxglove)

EcHiNOPS Ritro (Globe Thistle)

Geum coccineum (Avens)

Hemerocallis, various (Day Lily)

Heuchera sanguinea (Coral Bells)

Hollyhock

Iris, bearded (German Iris)

I. siBiRiCA (Siberian Iris)
Lychnis, various (Campion)
Pentstemon, various (Bearded

Tongue)
Papayer nudicaule (Iceland
Poppy)

P. orientals (Oriental Poppy)
Peony
Pyrethrum roseum (Pink Daisy)

TWENTY-FIVE PERENNIALS FOR JULY BLOOM

Achillea filipendulina (Golden
Yarrow)
A. Millefolium roseum (Rosy

MilfoQ)
A. Ptarmica (The Pearl)
Aconitum napellus (Monkshood)

Anghusa italica, Dropmore va-
riety (Italian Borage)

Anthemis tinctoria (Yellow Mar-
guerite)

Aruncus SYLVESTER (Spiraea)

Chrysanthemum maximum (Shasta
Daisy)

Cassia marilandica (American
Senna)

Delphinium, various (Hardy Lark-
spur)

38 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

TWENTY-FIVE PERENNIALS FOR JULY BLOOM— Continued

Digitalis purpurea (Foxglove) Lychnis, various (Campion)

FiLiPENDULA Ulmaria (Meadow Pentstemon, various (Bearded

Sweet) Tongue)
Gaillardia aristata (Blanket Phlox suffruticosa (Miss Lin-
Flower) S^^")
Geum coccinuem (Avens) ^"^FlJwevT''^ '''"''"' (Balloon
Hemerocallis Thunbergii (Day ScABmsI caucasica (Pincushion

^"y'' - Flower)

Heuchera sanguinea (Coral Bells) Stokesia cyanea (Stokes' Aster)

Hollyhock Tradescantia virginica (Spider-

Iris L/EVIGAta (Japanese Iris) wort)

TWENTY-FIVE PERENNIALS FOR AUGUST BLOOM

Achillea, various (see July) (Mil- Heuchera sanguinea (Coral Bells)

foil) Hibiscus moscheutos (Mallow

Anthemis tinctoria (Yellow Mar- Marvels)

guerite) Liatris pycnostachya (Kansas

Artemisia, various (Wormwood Gay Feather)

and others) ^ /ui iri n

Boltonia asteroides (False Star- Linum perenne (Blue Flax)

wort) Lobelia, various

Caryopteris Mastacanthus (Blue Monarda didyma Cambridge

Spir«a) Scarlet, (Bee Balm)

Coreopsis LANCEOLATA grandi- p^^^^^ Hardy

FLORA (Tickseed) > j

Delhipnium, various (Hardy Lark- Physostegia virginica (False

spur) ' Dragonhead)

Eryngium amethystinum (Sea Platycodon, various (BaUoon

Holly) Flower)

FuNKiA, various (Plantain Lily) Scabiosa caucasica (Pincushion

Gaillardia aristata (Blanket Flower) ,„ i u .

Flower) Tritoma uvularia (Ued-hot

Gypsophila pantculata (Baby's Poker)

Breath) Tunica saxifraga (lunica)

Heliopsis Pitcheriana (Golden Veronica longifolia subsessilis

Sunflower) (Speedwell)

TWENTY-FIVE PERENNIALS FOR SEPTEMBER BLOOM

AcoNiTUM autumnale (Mouks- Chelone glabra (Turtle head)

hood) Cimicifuga dahurica (Virginia

Anemone japonica (Japanese Snakeroot)

Anemone) Eupatorium, various (Boneset and

Artemisia lactiflora (Mugwort) others)

Aster, various (Michaelmas Daisy) ,o^»-^* /^Riar^Vot

Boltonia asteroides (False Star- C^aillardia aristata (Blanket

wort) Flower)

Chrysanthemum maximum (Shasta Helianthus Maximilianii (Maxi-

Daisy varieties) milian's Sunflower)

THE LISTS OF TWENTY-FIVES

TWENTY-FIVE PERENNIALS FOR SEPTEMBER BLOOM
Continued

Hrlianthus orgyalis (Narrow-
leaved Sunflower)

Helenium, various (Helen's Flow-
er)

Heliopsis Pitcheriana (Golden
Sunflower)

Hibiscus moscheutos (Mallow-
Marvels)

Lathyrus latifolius (Perennial
Pea)

LlATRIS PYCNOSTACHYA (KaUsas

Gay Feather)

Lobelia cardinalis (Cardinal
Flower)
L. SYPHILITICA (Great Lobelia)

Physostegia virginica (False
Dragonhead)

Polygonum, various (Knotweed)

RuDBECKiA, various (Goneflower,
Black-eyed Susan)

Sedum spectabile (Showy Stone-
crop)

Stokesia cyanea (Stokes' Aster)

Veronica longifolia subsessilis
(Speedwell)

TWENTY-FIVE PERENNIALS BLOOMING AFTER FROST

AcoNiTUM Fischeri (Monkshood)

Anemone japonica (Japanese
Anemone)

Aster, various (Michaelmas Daisy)

BoLTONiA ASTEROiDES (False Star-
wort)

Callirhoe involucrata (Poppy
Mallow)

Chrysanthemum, Hardy sorts

Daphne Cneorum (Garland Flow-
er)

Delphinium grandiflorum (Lark-
spur)

Dianthus latifolius atrococ-
ciNEUS (Everblooming Sweet Wil-
liam)

Echinacea purpurea (Purple
Goneflower)

Eupatorii'M C(ELEstinum (Hardy
Ageratuin)

Gaillardia aristata (Blanket

Flower)
Helianthus Maximilianii (Max-
imilian's Sunflower)

H. orgyalis (Fine-leaved Sun-
flower)
Lathyrus latifolius (Perennial

Pea)
Phlox, Hardy sorts
Plumbago Larpent^ (Lead Plant)
Polygonum amplexicaule (Knot-
weed)
Salvia azurea grandiflora (Blue
Sage)

S. farinacea

S. uliginosa
SoLiDAGO, various (Goldenrod)
Stokesia cyanea (Stokes' Aster)
Tritoma uvularia (Red-hot

Poker)
Viola cornuta (Tufted Pansy)

40 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS

Achillea— Milfoil, Yarrow

The Achilleas have proven themselves some of the most desirable
plants for the garden, mainly because of their exceedingly free, yet
graceful habits of growth. They range in color from white to cerise,
pink and yellow, and are often combined with silvery white foliage.

The species Achillea Ptarmica flore-pleno, The Pearl, has double
flowers borne in dense heads of purest white. It somewhat resembles
the pompon Chrysanthemums. Boule de Neige is not quite as large
as The Pearl, but the centers of the flowers are fuller and this makes it
appear of purer color. Perry's White has much larger and more com-
pact blooms than The Pearl, some of the flowers measuring 1 inch
across.

A. Millefolium is the common Yarrow, but its variety A. roseum
has handsome pink flowers and feathery foliage.

The Wooly Milfoil {A. tomeniosa) and the Golden or Fern-leaved
Yarrow {A. Filipendulina or Eupalorium) are yellow flowered sorts;
the former grows but a foot tall, the latter attains a height of 4 to 5 feet.

Uses. AU of the AchiUeas are good to use as cut flowers and for
the border. The Pearl is especially good in cemeteries because it takes
care of itself in the grass. They are often used in landscape work
against a background of shrubbery and some of the dwarfer types are
used in rockeries.

Culture. They are very easy to grow; in fact they grow so
rapidly that the plants should be divided and reset each Spring. Any
soil wiU do although they thrive best in rich, weU watered soil where
plenty of sunshine is available. Some of the taller Yarrows need a
little support. This is best given by sticking a few twiggy branches
into the soil, in which case the stems of the Yarrow are held up nicely.

Propagation. If the seeds are sown early, the plants will bloom
the first year. The large flowering clumps should be divided either
in the Spring or Fall.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 41

Aconitum — Monkshood, Wolfsbane, Helmet
Flower

Under trees, in woodlands and even in semi-wild gardens, the
Aconitums, when once established, enhance the statehness and grandeur
of a place as only a plant with tall spikes of cool blue flowers can. The
flowers themselves are showy, shaped like a helmet or hood, from which
the common name Monkshood is derived. The leaves are large and
lustrous green, forming a dense mat, which throws long, compact stalks
of white, blue, violet-blue, white and Hlac and yeUow flowers. They
grow from 3 feet to 6 feet tall and bloom from June or July until
November.

Species. The coimnon Monkshood {Aconitum Napellus) has large,
dark blue flowers and grows 5 feet to 6 feet high. A variety of this one
has white flowers with flesh-colored edges and another has decided pink
markings on it. A. N. bicolor has white and blue flowers. Wolfsbane
(A. Lycodonum) blooms in June and July, is 4 feet high and has soft
yellow flowers. A. Wilsonii blooms in September with spikes of pale
blue flowers growing 6 feet taU. A. Fischeri is the last one to bloom.
It is only 3 feet taU, has pale blue flowers and blooms in October.

Uses. The Monkshoods are planted among shrubbery and in
borders, especiaUy in combination with Madonna Lihes, white Phlox
and Shasta Daisies. Most of the varieties are valuable to fill in vacant
spaces in the garden when the earlier blooming plants have past.
They are excellent for naturahzing in a woods. Since the roots are
poisonous, one should be careful to avoid planting them near a vege-
table garden where they might be mistaken for another plant, or where
children could get to them. The efl'ect of the glossy leaves is very
striking, especiaUy of A. Fischeri. If undisturbed in the woods, they
wiU naturalize themselves very easily. Aconitums should always be
planted in masses.

Culture. Aconitums grow in almost any good garden soil, either
in sun or partial shade. When the ground is being prepared for plant-
ing, one should dig deeply and use plenty of well-decayed cow manure.
Good culture and hberal feeding add greatly.

Propagation. It is a rather slow process to raise them from
seed since it takes twenty days for the seed to germinate. However,
they are easily propagated by division of the roots. They grow best
when left undisturbed for years.

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Adlumia — Mountain Fringe, Allegheny Vine,
Climbing Fumitory

This dainty biennial vine, native as it is in our own country, is
little known. The leaves are fme^and resemble the fohage of a Maiden-
hair fern. These plants are related to the Bleeding Heart and Dutch-
man's Breechesj^and the^flowers, which are white or purphsh, are

tubular and unmis-
takably resemble the
Bleeding Heart, al-
though they are tiny.
Adlumia fungosa
{cirrhosa) is the only
species cultivated.

Uses. Where
gracefulness is wanted
in a vine, the Adlu-
mia supplies the need.
It is effectively plant-
ed at the base of an
evergreen tree upon
which it can climb.
The growth is so
slender and the foli-
age so light that there
is no danger that the
shade which it casts
will harm the tree in
any way. It merely
casts a veil of loveli-
ness over a portion of
the evergreen. It
may be used for trel-
Kses and arbors of
all sorts because it attains a height of 15 feet.

Culture and Propagation. The seed is sown in early Spring.
Generally the plants remain low and bushy for the first year. The
second year they grow rapidly, produce an abundance of seed and then
die. Fortunately the seeds self-sow and when one has started the
Adlumias, they generally persist year after year from volunteer plants.

The Allegheny Vine or Adlumia, a vine of extreme
grace.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS

The plants do not tolerate open, windswept places and enjoy a
rich, rather moist soil, and are best when not exposed to the full sun
all day.

The seeds are best sown where they are to grow, as the plants
transplant witii difficulty.

Adonis — Birdseye, Pheasant's Eye

h is difficult to find a bright flowered plant which blooms as early
as does the Adonis. The flowers are a bright and deep yellow, resem-
bling large Buttercups
with finely cut, rather
ornamental fohage.
Adonis amurensis is
the first sort to bloom
followed by A. ver-
nalis (see illustra
tion) and A. pyre-
naica. The first sort
blooms in April, and
the last in May or
June. All the sorts
grow about 1 foot
tall. Some of the an-
nual sorts are Au-
tumn blooming.

Uses. Adonis is
especially good to use
in rock gardens or in
the border.

Culture. Any
good light soil will do
and they will grow
either in sun or shade,
but partial shade is
preferred.

Propagation.
The, best way is by
division of the roots.
This should be done in August. R is a rather slow method by seed as
it takes from three to four years, after transplanting, for this flower to
show its true beauty. One may readily see that this plant does not
enjoy|being moved.

Adonis, not a gypsy, for it does not like to be moved.

44 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

TEgopodium — Bishop's Weed, Goat Weed

Wherever one goes, through many gardens and even in some
woods this green and yellow variegated plant has spread its roots
until it has almost come to be considered a troublesome weed by many
people, although in its place it is of great value. The white flower is
rather inconspicuous and does not show up well against the light
colored leaves, .^gopodium Podagraria is a small creeping plant with
white margined leaves.

Uses. The Bishop's Weed makes a beautiful border for a bed of
shrubs or flowers, if it is not allowed to spread too freely. It grows to
best advantage when used to cover waste ground or shady places
where grass will not grow. It is well used in the narrow strips of soil
between the foundation wall and a sidewalk.

Culture. It thrives in any kind of soil.

Propagation. By seeds, and division.

Ajuga — Bugle Flower

For creeping over the soil in shaded places the Bugle Flower is
excellent. Two sorts are commonly catalogued. Ajuga reptans rubra
has deep purplish-blue flowers and purplish leaves and is prostrate in
habit; A. genevensis is more upright in growth and bears flowers vary-
ing in color from duU red to white and blue. There is a variegated
form of the Bugle Flower in which the leaves are mottled with yeUow.
They flower in May.

Use. It is an excellent carpet plant and is often used in ceme-
teries. When clipped into form it serves as an excellent edging plant.
Rockeries are often planted with the Ajuga. The plants will grow
beneath trees where a lawn is difiicult to establish.

Culture and Propagation. The plants, being of a spreading
habit, are easily divided either in Spring or Fall. Seeds grow readily.

Alyssum — Madwort, Basket of Gold, Gold Dust,
Goldentuft, Rockmadwort

The various Alyssums have been known for a long time as one of
the best, if not the best, edging plant for borders of all kinds. They
have been combined with Darwin Tulips, with Rock Cress (Arabis)
and the False Wall Cress (Aubrietia), and also with shrubs, such as the

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 45

Spiraeas and Hydrangeas. Just as soon as Winlor is over, the Alyssum
makes preparations to grow, and within a month it presents a mass of
yellow flowers. It is in bloom from early Spring through June and
grows from 4 inches to 12 inches high. The Basket of Gold {Alyssum
saxatile compadum) is of a dwarf, shrubby nature with grayish-green
leaves and dense heads of briUiant golden yellow flowers, and is one
of the best yellow, low growing plants of early Spring. A. s. variegatum
has variegated fohage with yeUow blotches on the leaves. When this
plant has finished blooming, it becomes a showy, ornamental one.
The Madwort (A. rostratum) has golden-yellow flowers, grows about
12 inches high and blooms somewhat later than the others. There is
also a double form with yellow flowers.

Uses. The Alyssums are indispensable plants for the rock gar-
den, especiaUy where plants are needed to droop over the rocks. They
are planted along sidewalks in hanging baskets, and as groups or edges
for the border. The annuals, being sweet scented, they are also used
for cutting purposes, and are good for Winter blooming.

Culture. They are very easy to grow, requiring some limestone,
a weU-drained soil and a suimy situation. They spread rapidly and
bloom very freely.

Propagation. Seeds should be sown in August and wintered
over in a fight, airy position until large enough to be planted out, if
good-sized plants are desired in the Spring. The double sorts cannot be
grown from seeds and must be propagated through cuttings. The roots
of the plant can also be divided.

Anchusa — Aikanet, Italian Borage, Summer
Forget-me-not, Sea Bugloss

One of the colors which all amateur gardeners wish is a good,
strong blue, one which does not fade easily but which holds its own.
Anchusas when planted in large masses, appear as a misty sea of deep
blue when in bloom. Although possessing nothing to recommend it as
a cut flower, it is a taU growing blue perennial that is deserving of a
place in every garden. The plants of Anchusa italica, Dropmore Va-
riety, which is the commonest one grown, attains a height of 3 feet
to 5 feet, and blooms during June and July. The leaves are very
large, heavy and hairy. The flowering branches are sent out in aU
directions from the plant and bear large, loose clusters of giant For-
get-me-nots of soft turquoise blue. Many have a white eye. The
Opal variety is light pinkish blue. The blooming season can be easily

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNL\LS

Left, The Monkshood or Aconitum, striking plants resembhng Larkspurs; right,
Anchusa, a rare deep blue of May.

lengthened by cutting down the taller sprays when the flowers begin to
fade. This will cause smaller spikes to appear which will continue
blooming through September. They are of such beauty and are so
attractive in early Spring when so few blue flowers are in sight, that
they have proven very popular. The bees also delight in visiting
them.

Uses. Anchusa s have proven an invaluable plant for the border,
and are used in woodlands to a certain extent. A. my osotidi flora is a
dwarf variety bearing small flowers and is used eff'ectively in rock
gardens, especially in shady nooks, where it blooms all Summer.

Culture. Any good garden soil, plenty of sunshine, and a well-
drained situation suit them. Most of the plants become fuUy estab-
lished during the second or third year. They are moisture-loving
plants and should be given copious soakirigs of water during dry
spells The plants should be staked during the flowering season.

Propagation Seeds and division of the plant. Anchusas self-
sow very readily. The roots are very juicy and brittle so that when
the plants are dug, they are frequently broken. Each root allowed to
remain in the soil will produce a new plant.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 47

Anemone — Japanese Wind Flower

There are many kinds of Anemones found growing in the cul-
tivated gardens, as well as in the wild of our woods. Some are among
the first flowers to bloom along the river banks in the Spring and some
bloom even after the early frosts of Autumn have come. AH thrive
under cool conditions and in many cases the ground should be covered
with leafmold to keep it cool. The early blooming varieties such as
the Pasque Flower {Anemone Pulsatilla) grow about 9 inches high and
the purpUsh flowers are borne in profusion during April. The Pasque
Flower is followed by seed pods covered with silky hairs which stay on
the plant for a considerable time. But of all the Anemones, the
Japanese Wind Flower (A japonica) is the largest and the best one to
grow for our gardens. They begin blooming early in Fall and last
until freezing weather cuts them down when only the Cosmos, Dahlias
and Chrysanthemums are left. The flowers are pure white, light and
dark pink; they grow from "2 feet to 3 feet tall. They seem to thrive
best when planted in front of shrubbery, evergreens or walls facing the
south where they are protected from the northern winds. Japanese
Anemones have a leathery fohage which is dark green on the surface
and light green on the under side. The flower spikes grow straight
and erect from the center of the plant and bear many large, saucer-
shaped flowers with a large center of yellow pollen masses. The good
varieties are: Whirlwind, white; Queen Charlotte, pink; Geante des
Blanches, white, and Kriemhilde, rose. There are also rosy-reds and
crimsons.

Us7?]s. Anemones are charming when used as cut flowers espe-
cially when combined with the fine ferns or Asparagus plumosus. TM
dwarf varieties which bloom in the Spring are used in rock gardens,
while the others are used in borders. The Japanese Anemones bloom
at a time when flowers are scarce and with slight protection from the
early frosts, tliey will bloom two or three weeks after many other
plants are killed.

Culture. All Anemones like a rich, moist soil, one which is well
drained in Winter. The early dwarf varieties will thrive in shady
places, but the Japanese Wind Flowers need sunshine. They like lots
of water and should be thoroughly soaked with water during a dr^
season. They need some Winter protection, such as a good covering
of leaves. If the plants are moved, it should be in the Spring, but
it is best to let them grow undistm-bed in the border for a number
of years. The ground should be worked deeply and well manured.

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Propagation. The seed should he sown in the Spring and the
plants spaced at 18 inches apart. The best method is to divide the
roots. Save even the smallest roots when the plant is dug, because if
they are cut into 2-inch lengths and placed in a sandy soil they will
produce little plants. When well started these new plants may be
placed in their permanent quarters.

Anthemis — Golden Marguerite, Common
Chamomile

This hardy Marguerite is a sturdy, very easily grown plant. It
is about 1 foot ot1}4 feet high, very bushy with finely cut foliage some-
what resembling the Pyrethrums, and bears Daisy -like, yellow flowers
in great profusion from June until Fall. The colors range from purest
white to a rich yellow. Anthemis tindoria Kelwayi is the best one for
gardens because it has a particularly long flowering season. Its flowers
are yellow. A. montana, a form of A. tindoria, has creamy white
flowers.

Left, ^Japanese Anemone, one of the charming late flowers; right, wild Asters, a
Fall srarden without them being incomplete.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 49

Uses. The golden Marguerites are splendid when planted in
masses and are most excellent for hot dry places. Some of the dwarf
forms are used in rockwork. They are used for cut flowers to a great
extent.

Culture. These flowers will grow in almost any kind of soil; in
fact, they will succeed in the poorest clay soil. They like a sunny
location, although they will bloom in partial shade. The plants should
be divided often as they grow and spread very rapidly. It must be
frankly admitted that they are apt to overrun a small garden.

Propagation. They are easily grown from seed or by division
of the roots.

Aquilegia — Columbine

Doth the rock burst into bloom

So the bees seek its perfume ?

Is there somewhere in its breast

A spirit roving without rest

That doth fabricate

This wall of slate

Into forms so complicate

That but a breath

Would bring death

They are so frail,

So thinly frail ?

Ah, the wonder that" has run
That some sweet alchemy has won —
Kissed together stone and sun !
0 Columbine, the world is thine 1

— L. H. Bailey.

The names of this flower are interesting to the garden lover with
imagination. It is called Columbine, some say, because the flowers
appear like the cap of a court jester; others have suggested that the
spurs of the flowers cause them to appear like a ring of doves (Colombo)
about a dish. And its name Aquilegia, is it from agui legus, to draw
water, or from aquila, an eagle? Both derivations would be apt, for
the Aquilegia appears to draw water from the rocks upon which it
grows in the wild and the shape of the flower suggests the talons of
an eagle.

Species. Canada Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis). This is
the common species native to the Eastern states. The flowers are red
and yeUow, and the spurs are medium short.

Rocky Mountain Columbine (A. ccerulea) is a most beautiful sort
which in its wild form has white petals and usually white sepals and

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNL\LS

Left, Columbines — the long-spurred sorts being the prettiest; rif/ht, Armeria or
Sea Pink; a good edging plant.

long blue spurs. It is a native of the Western States and is found at
elevations of from 7,000 to 10,000 feet. As a parent it has produced
many excellent white, pink and blue varieties. The variety Rose
Queen is one of the most charming sorts.

A. chrysantha is a yellow sort with long spurs which blooms some-
what later than the other sorts. It has been much used as a parent
for long-spurred hybrids.

Common European Columbine {A. vulgaris). This is a European
species with bright lilac flowers, although its white form nivea is most
commonly grown. It is a dwarf sort, l3^ feet tall and with stout,
curved spurs. This variety has the best foliage of any Columbine,

Uses. Most species are excellent for the rock garden, as well as
for the herbaceous border, where they make clumps sometimes 2 feet
in diameter. It is difficult to arrange Columbines as cut flowers, they
seem to strangle each other. When a truly exquisite eff'ect is desired,
cut a single truss of bloom and place it in a vase by itself.

Culture and Propagation. Aquilegias bloom in from 12 to 15
months from seed; in other words, they rarely o*- never bloom the
first year when the seed is sown in the open border. When sown in
August of one year they will bloom nicely the next year. The seedhngs
prefer a warm, sandy soil.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS

The seed sometimes germinates irregularly but it is usually ad-
visable to sow the seed shortly after it is ripe. The plants make little
growth during the hot Summer from Spring-sown seed. Large plants
may be divided in September.

It might be advisable fov the amateur gardener to buy plants of
the various sorts which, if planted together, will cross to form many
hybrids.

Most Columbines do well in the sun but will stand some shade.

Arabis — Rock Cress, Wall Cress

The Rock Cress is a small, white, four-petaled flower and its
masses of snowy bloom early in the Spring contrast beautifully with
the Rasket of Gold {Alyssum sa.ratile compactum) and the blue False
Wall Cress {Aubrie-
tia). It blooms very
soon after the snow
disappears and the
flowers are so numer-
ous that when a plant
is in bloom, no foli-
age is visible. The
fohage is gray and the
plant attains a height
of 6 inches. It is of a
spreading nature and
the stems form a
dense mat about a
foot across which
blooms continuously
from very early
Spring through May.
Arabis alpina is the
commonest form
grown but A. albida
is a better bloomer.
Roth have white flow-
ers. There is a soft
pink sort {A. aubrie-
tioides) which some-

tlmp« vn'infprL'ill^ Arabis or Ruck Cress. Masses of white flowers

limes WmierKlllS. ^ rockery or border are attractive.

52 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Uses. It is a splendid rock garden plant, growing where it will
droop over the rocks. In borders it should be used to cover bare
spots. The flowers are sweet scented and are valuable for cutting pur-
poses. It is a neat plant wherever grown.

Culture. Any good garden soil will do provided it is loose and
open. Arabis is a drought-resistant plant, does not need much water,
but requires lots of sun and heat. After blooming the plants should
be cut back thus causing them to branch freely and form better
plants for the next year's bloom. A auhrietioides is best wintered in a
coldframe.

Propagation. Rock Cress is propagated by seeds or by dividing
the plants.

Armeria — Sea Pink, Thrift, Cliff Rose

The Sea Pink is a low growing plant which derived its name from
the fact that it grows along the seashore and is pink in color There
are other colors, such as red, deep rosy pink, hlac and white. It grows
in dense, low clumps with numerous, narrow, grass-like leaves, all
clustered at the base, from which spring the flowers on stiff, wiry
stems from 6 inches to 12 inches high. The Sea Pink {Armeria mari-
tima) is the common form. A. Laucheana has crimson flowers while
A. cephalotes alba has snowy white flowers. They flower more or less
continuously from early Spring until late in Fall.

Uses. The Sea Pinks are invaluable when planted in clumps or
for edging. They are also used for pot plants and in the rock garden.

Culture. They need a free, well-drained, sandy loam and leaf
soil.

Propagation. The more choice varieties are increased by divid-
ing the roots and a good sized plant will furnish hundreds of small
divisions. They produce seed and wiU grow readily from seeds. If
the seeds are planted in the FaU, they should be kept in the coldframe
and removed to the open ground just as soon as it is in a workable con-
dition. This will enable the plants to get well established before the
hot weather arrives.

Artemisia — Wormwood, Mountain Fringe, Old
Man, Old Woman, Southern Wood

This group of plants, as a whole, are not generaUy valued for their
flowers, but all have very ornamental foliage. The plants are almost

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 53

as hardy as Oalis, yet are very attractive when in bloom from August
until frost-time. The flowers are borne on long, graceful stems, divided
like a plume, and are either light creamy or yellowish-white in color.
The foliage is very finely cut and \aries from light gray to dark green.

Species. Hawthorn-scented Mugwort. A ladiflora is one of
the newest varieties which grows 5 feet high. Its fragrant flowers are
produced in late Sunamer and combines well with the Golden Glow,
Buddleia, Hardy Asters, Boltonia, Helianthus and many other of the
taller Fall blooming perennials. It shows a tendency to disappear like
the Auratum Lily does.

Southernwood, Old Man (A. Ahrotanum) is one of the old-fashioned
border plants. It has yellowish-white flowers and is usually grown for
its handsome dark green, pleasant scented leaves.

Old Woman {A. Sielleriana) is of creeping habit with silvery white
foliage and is one of the showiest of this type of border plants. It
grows rapidly and soon covers a large space.

A. Purshiana grows about 1/^ feet high and has white foliage.

The Summer Fir or Annual Pine (A. saccrorum) is an annual re-
cently introduced from China which because of its fine foliage and
rapid growth has become popular for foliage masses.

Uses. Old Woman is much used for carpeting beds or borders.
It is good also for the rock garden. The taller plants are used to fill
in the shrubbery or as backgrounds or hedges for the lower growing
flowers. The fohage and flowers are sweetly scented and adapt them-
selves well to pot culture and as such are as decorative as many of
the Acacias which are prized so much. The blooms also make attrac-
tive cut flowers and last weU.

Culture. Artemisias like soil which is moist, and it must be
rather rich in order to produce good blooms. Free watering and soap-
suds have been found to agree with them.

Propagation. They may be grown from seeds, but are usually
propagated by division or by cuttings.

Asciepias — Butterfly Weed, Pleurisy Root,
Milkweed

The common IVIilkweeds arc members of this genus of plants.
Asciepias tuberosa, the Butterfly Weed, is one of the showiest and
most beautiful of our native plants. The beautiful, flat-topped clus-
ters of bright orange-red flowers are followed by long, curious pods

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

containing numerous white,
feathery seeds. In the wild
state the flowers bloom in
August, but the flowering
season is prolonged if the
plants are given good cultiva-
tion. In some sections the
Butterfly Weed has been large-
ly used as a substitute for
Geraniums because of some of
the intense orange and scarlet
shades of the flowers. How-
ever, it grows a little taller,
from m feet to 2H feet.

Uses. The Butterfly
Weed is nice for sunny spots
in the rockery or border.
When found wild they are
blooming when many of the
surrounding plants are dried
up.

Culture. These plants
are long lived and capable of taking care of themselves without any
attention. They freeze out in heavy soil and should have sandy,
well drained soil in full sunlight. The Asclepias is a deep rooting plant
and dislikes removal very much. One should be careful that it has
completed its growth and every root should be saved, if the plants
aT'e to be transplanted from one place to another. Transplanting
is usually considered difficult, but many persons have reported suc-
cess if the hole is filled with sand.

Propagation. Raising them from seeds is the most certain
method of propagation. Sow only a few seeds in a pot of rather
firm soil, and aUow the young plants, which grow slowly, to remain
in these pots for at least a year before setting them out.

Butterfly Weed or Asclepias tuberosa.

These orange-red flowers brighten the

dry spots on banks or in the border.

Asperula — Sweet Woodruff, Waldmeister

Sweet Woodruff" {Asperula odorata) is a small growing, graceful,
sweet scented herb. It has small, white flowers and deep green, whorled
fohage. The flowers and leaves when dried have an odor like new hay
and when laid among clothes, perfume them and keep away insects.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 55

It grows from 6 inches to 8 inches high and the small flowers, appearing
among the fohage, make an exceedingly pretty picture, but the foliage
itself is not very attractive.

Uses. Sweet Woodruff* is fine for cutting purposes, and is used
with varieties of the Enghsh Ivy for a ground covering among shrubs
and under trees. Dried leaves have a very agreeable aromatic odor.

Culture. It will succeed when planted in clumps if given a
partially shaded position.

Propagation. It is propagated by division and from seeds and
increases rapidly. The seeds germinate slowly.

Asphodel — King's Spear

The classic Asphodel is rarely seen in gardens although its interest-
ing, tall and stately spikes of yellow and white flowers are of interest to
garden lovers. The Asphodels are variously catalogued as Asphodeline
and Asphodelus; the former genus is erect and has leafy stems, the latter
is stemless. In Asphodeline lutea the flowers are sweet scented and
yellow, the stems 3 feet to 4 feet tall. The plants bloom in June.
In Bailey's "Standard Cyclopedia of Horticulture" we read that this
is the plant mentioned by Homer which grows in the meadows of the
dead, where the heroes gathered in Hades. In Greece it is wild and is
always associated with waste places and the dead. To us it has no
such associations.

The name King's Spear, is often used for this plant. There is,
however, another perennial, the Eremurus, which is called by that
name.

Culture. The Asphodels are excellent border plants, where they
may be grown in partial shade or sun. They are suited to most garden
soils.

Propagation. The plants are readily divided in Spring or Fall.
Seed is advertised in some catalogs.

Aster — Michaelmas Daisy

The American who reads English books about gardens is thriUed
by the love of the British for Michaelmas Daisies. He immediately
hunts his own roadsides and delves into catalogs to acquire some of
these lovely flowers. For the wild Asters are truly lovely and are
an asset to any garden, many of which bloom at a season when the

50 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

other flowers are failing and the roadsides are parched after our usual
Summer droughts. It is a reflection upon our appreciation of our own
native flora to read that there are many selected varieties of Asters,
most of which have been produced abroad. In the following table w:iU
be found an ample assortment of the commoner Michaelmas Daisies,
all of which may be grown:

ACRis NANUS. 1-13^ fcct. Lavcndcr-blue. Aug.-Sept. Good dwarf.
ACUMiNATUs (Sharp-lcavcd A.) 1-3 feet. White. Aug.-Sept. Moist

locations.
Advance. 4 feet. Lavender. Sept. Free flowering.
ALPiNus. % foot. Purplish-blue and white. May-June. Rockery or

front of border; very early.
Amellus. 2 feet. Rich violet. Aug.-Sept.

AMETHYSTiNus. 4-5 feet. Amethyst-blue. Oct. Mass of smaU flowers.
Beauty of Golwall. 3-4 feet. Ageratum-blue. Sept. One of best

doubles.
Glimax. 5 feet. Lavender-blue. Sept.-Oct. A superb form of A.

novi-belgii.
coRDiFOLius (Heart-leaved A.) 1-4 feet. Light Ulac. Sept. A common

wfld sort.
ERicomES (Heath A.) 2 feet. White. Sept. SmaU leaves; common,

wild.
Feltham Blue. 2}^ feet. Blue. Aug.-Sept. One of best.
Glen Eyrie. 33^^-4 feet. Bright pink. Sept.-Oct. A pink form of

A. novae-angliae.
GRANDiFLORUS. 2-2]/^ feet. Bluish-violet. Oct.-Nov. Late; a large

flower.
L^vis (Smooth-leaved A.) 4 feet. LUac lavender. Oct. Neat habit,

graceful.
LiL Fardel. 4-5 feet. Mauve. Sept. Showy, form of novae-angliae.
MACROPHYLLus (Largc-lcavcd A.) 4 feet. Lavender-violet. Sept.

Dry, shady places.
MULTiFLORUS (Mauy-flowcrcd A.) 2 feet. White, smaU. Oct.-Nov.

Late.
Nov^-ANGLI^. (New England A.) 3-5 feet. Purple. Sept.-Oct.

Common, showy wfld sort.

NOvi-BELGii (N. Y. Aster). 1-3 feet. Blue. Sept.-Oct. Glimax and

St. Egwyn are forms of this.
Perry's Favorite. 3 feet. Reddish violet. Aug.-Sept. Form of

A. AmeUus.
PTARMicomES. 3^ foot. White. Aug. Stiff stems for cut flower.
St. Egwyn. 23^-3 feet. Pink. Sept.-Oct. One of best.
suBGCERULEus. l3^ fcct. Bluish-violct. May- June. Large flowers;

protect plants.
TATARicus. 5-6 feet. Violet-blue. Oct. Late sort; one of tallest.
WmTE Queen. 4 feet. White. Sept.-Oct. Not as good as some.

Uses. To see the various sorts of Asters is to suggest a hundred
uses for them: tall sorts as backgrounds for lower perennials; tall
sorts in front of evergreens; tall sorts for woodlands and roadsides;

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 57

tall sorts for screening fences, ditches; sbor^^r species for bringing a
spot of color into the Fall perennial border; all species for cutting and
useful for large vases in the home, church or social gathering.

GiiLTiTRE No culture is necessary. Plant them and if given extra
food and water they repay us; if not they bloom beautifully to shame us
for our neglect Of cou'-se, in the garden where neatness is necessary,
we do stake the tall sorts. They seem to grow well either in full sun
or partial shade.

Propagation. Cut up the clumps as often as you think of it.
They multiply rapidly and one always has a few plants to give to a
friend.

Aubrietia — Purple Rock Cress, False Wall Cress

Early in the Spring our eyes search for color in the garden. We
grow the Rock Cress (Arabis) for white, Golden Alyssum for yellow
and Aubrietia for purple, rose and lavender. But as a matter of fact,
few persons have grown the Aubrietias because they have not known
of them although the catalogs list the plants.

Use. They are useful in the front line of a perennial border or for
the rock garden.

Culture. They prefer the lighter soils and full sun. Transplant
in Fall or earliest Spring, for at other times they are impatient c>f t)eing
moved.

Propagation. Divide the plants in the Fall. If seed is obtain-
able, they may be easily started from seed.

Baptisia — False Indigo, Wild Indigo

The Baptisias are strong growing plants with yellow, white and
dark blue flowers which somewhat resemble the Lupine, being pea-
shaped. The flowers grow on a spike about 6 inches long. False Indigo
{Baptisia ausiralis) grows about 3 feet high, has dark blue flowers and
dark bluish-green leaves cut very deeply to form three oval leaflets.
Wild Indigo (i5. tincioria) has short leaves and bright yellow flowers.
It grows from 2 feet to 4 feet high. These plants bloom from May
through July.

Uses. These are very striking plants for the border because of
the excellent spikes of blue or yellow color. They are also good
in the wild garden.

58 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Culture. Baptisias should be planted in full sunlight, otherwise
they prove to be shy in blooming. They will stand dry, sandy soils.

Propagation. They are usually propagated from seeds and
division of the plants which are very woody at the crown. The seeds
should be sown as soon as they are gathered and wintered over in
the coldframe, where they will germinate the following Spring.

Bellis — English Daisy, Herb Margaret

The Daisy of Europe is the one of which we speak here. Who has
not read the words of Burns and Wordsworth, and having read, who
has not admired these charming button -like flowers the more? Let
us read again several stanzas of Burns:

TO A MOUNTAIN DAISY

On turning one down with the plow.

Wee, modest, crimson-tippe'd flower,
Thou's met me in an evil hour;
For I maun crush amang the stoure*

Thy slender stem;
To spare thee now is past my power,

Thou bonnie gem.

Gauld blew the bitter biting north
Upon thy early, humble birth.
Yet cheerfully thou glinted f forth

Amid the storm,
Scarce reared above the parent earth
Thy tender form.
~ *Stoure — means dust.

tGlinted — means peeped.

With the Tulips in the early days of Spring the English Daisy
{Bellis perennis) starts to produce its single or double white, pink, rose
and red flowers upon its low plants, for they seldom grow over 3 inches
tall. Although they bloom quickly in the Spring, the finest flowers are
produced in the Fall when it is cooler.

Uses. They are combined with Pansies and Forget-me-nots and
are also used as a ground cover for Hyacinths, Tulips, and other bulbs,
either in the rock garden, as an edging for borders, or in the early
window boxes.

Culture. The hot weather is very severe on the English Daisies.
They should be planted 6 inches apart each way in cool soil. They
should be protected in the Winter and if they are kept in coldframes,
will bloom during the Winter as do Pansies and Violets.

NOTEWORTHY PKRENNTAT.S

:)9

Left, False Indigo or Baptisia, a blue, pea-shaped flower of May; right, English
Daisy or Bellis, cheery edging plants.

Propagation. The finer English Daisies are propagated by
division in the Fall. They grow easily from seed which should be sown
in August in coldframes, where they should be kept during the Winter.

Bocconia — Plume Poppy, Tree Celandine

The Plume Poppy {Bocconia cordata) is perhaps one of the most
imposing plants of the hardy border, for it grows from C feet to 10 feet
high. The general aspect of the plant is grayish-green in color with
very large and deeply cut leaves. The flowers are not very conspicuous
but form huge plumes of feathery, small, creamy white blooms. Other
varieties have leaves which are silvery under the surface and small
white flowers which are red when in bud. The flowering season of the
Bocconias is during the Summer months, July and August, but the
plumes remain attractive until <^ut by frost.

Uses. The silvery foliage counts as white in the garden; hence,
the Plume Poppy can be used where white clumps are needed. It
seems adapted to wet places, is good as a specimen plant, and is ex-

60 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Plume Poppy or Bocconia.

cellent for the rear of borders, or to plant in front of tall shrubbery.
It can also be used for the centers of beds of flowers.

Culture. The Plume Poppy requires lots of sunlight and a rich
soil seems to promote the production of large specimen clumps, but
they will grow in any good soil.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 61

Propagation. Bocconia plants grow easily from seed and attain
a height of 3 feet to 4 feet the first year. They may be divided and
should be confined, because the plants sucker very badly and will
soon spread throughout the garden.

Boltonia — False Starwort, False Chamomile

The Boltonias bloom at the same time and resemble some of the
wild Asters of the garden and woodland. The leaves are long and
grayish and in these characteristics are roughly distinguished from the
perennial Asters, or Michaelmas Daisies.

The catalogs commonly list three sorts: B. asieroides, a tall, white
sort growing 4 feet to 5 feet tall, blooming in August and September;
B. latisquama, which is similar to the former sort but with pinkish
lavender flowers; and B. latisquama nana which grows only 2 feet tall.
The colors are not strictly the distinguishing characteristics, but as
the catalogs usually agree, we shall pass on to add that the flowers of
B latisquama are generally larger than those of the first species.

Uses. The Boltonias, because of their great height, are highly
desirable in large perennial borders because the plants literaUy bear
thousands of star-like flowers. They serve excellently as cut flowers.

Culture. The plants are of the simplest culture, taking care
of themselves when established. Sometimes when the soil is rich,
they grow a bit too taU for their strength. Their appearance is then
improved by staking.

Propagation. The seeds usuaUy grow succ'essfuUy, but the
plants are readily divided into pieces in the Spring. Frequent division
is advisable as the plants reproduce rapidly.

Buddleia — Butterfly Bush, Summer Lilac

Buddleias have made a great place for themselves in the garden
where their abundant bloom, attractive color and delicate fragrance
wins our admiration the first time we become accquainted with them.
These plants are nearly hardy shrubs, but because of our cold
Winters they serve as perennials with us.

Species. B. variabilis is a species bearing erect panicles of lilac-
colored, fragrant blooms with orange throat markings. The stems of

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

.f#

^ : . >«&

mm^%^-

IsfW'fW^

>;. :%^

-^i'^^V

bloom are 12 inches
to 15 inches long and
3 inches in diameter.
The species was in-
troduced by Wilson
from China. The
plants although froz-
en to the ground
nearly every Winter,
will start up nicely
and grow 6 feet to
8 feet tall. The
minimum tempera-
ture which the roots
will stand seems to
be about 10 deg. be-
low zero. There are
several varieties but
B. V. var. magnifica,
which blooms from
June until October,
is the best form be-
cause of its superior
flowering habit.

Uses. Buddleias
make excellent cut
ilowers. As a garden
subject they make attractive specimen plants. Besides . their charm-
ing^ color and fragrance, they are rightly named the Butterily bush,
because they are continually covered with handsome butterllies.

Culture. Plant Buddleias in well drained soil, and they will
bloom the first year after planting. Many growers seem to believe
that protected plants freeze as readily as those given no covering ot
any sort.

Propagation. The best method of propagation, if a greenhouse
is available, is to make cuttings in September and October and grow
them through the Winter in the greenhouse, in which case they will be
large blooming plants by Springtime. Outofdoors, the Buddleias
are readily propagated from young shoots rooted either in sand or water.
It is a bit difficult to get the young plants through the first Wmter m
the severer cUmates.

Butterfly Bush or Buddleia. Superlative adjectives
only can describe this lilac flowering plant. A shrub
treated in the Northern States as a herbaceous plant-

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 63

Cactus, Hardy — Opuntia, Echinocactus

The Cacti, as everyone knows, are plants with thick, fleshy stems
covered with spines, for usually there are no leaves. The Opuntias,
which are perhaps the most common ones grown in the northern states,
have large and flat branches. They have many colored spines and
exquisite flowers. The spines are black, brown, purple, yellow or straw
colored and white, while the flowers are pale pink and yellow. The
Comanche Cactus (0. Camanchica) has large yellow flowers and pur-
ple fruit. The Hedgehog Cactus {Echinocactus Simpsonii) is very small
and grows into a globe with pale pink flowers. Other hardy Optunias
are 0. vulgaris, 0. phspacantha, 0. polyacantha, 0. arenaria and 0.
Rafinesquii.

Uses. The hardy Cacti are used mostly in the rock gardens,
although many of them are used in the borders and in dry, rocky
places.

Culture. Cacti require a light, open and porous soil, containing
lots of leafmold, loam and sand. There should also be enough lime
present to keep the soil from souring. They need water in the Summer
but not during the Winter. Plant them in full sun.

Propagation. They are propagated by seeds and cuttings taken
from the old wood rather than the soft stems.

Callirhoe — Poppy Mallow

The Poppy iVIaUow has long, traihng stems with many saucer-
shaped or Poppy-shaped flowers. These flowers are borne in the axils
of the leaves and vary in color from rosy crimson to cherry red and rose,
with white centers. Callirhoe irivolucrata is the most useful species and
blooms all during the Summer and early FaU. The leaves are deeply
cut and hairy. Height 6 inches to 8 inches.

Uses. The Poppy Mallow is good for small borders, or for the
rock garden.

Culture. It is of easiest culture, growing rapidly during the
Summer months. It thrives in sunny, dry positions, where the roots
penetrate to a great depth.

Propagation. These plants exhaust themselves easily and should
be renewed often. They are propagated by seeds and cuttings.

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Campanula — Bellflower, Canterbury Bell,
Harebell, Peach Bell, Bluebell

There is hardly a group of
flowers which possess such rare
beauty as does the large genus
of Campanulas. There are
many sorts, some growing
2 inches high and some from
4 feet to 6 feet high, but all
have more or less bell-shaped
flowers in lovely colors: white;
clear pink, blue, rose, purplish-
rose, violet-blue and lavender.
All of them are desirable and
seem to just fit in their various
places from the formal border
to the rocky ledges of the
woods. Most of them bloom
during June and July. The
Canterbury Bells {Campanula
Medium) and its cup and
saucer variety {C. M. caly
canthema) are perhaps th-
most showy and satisfactore

Canterbury Bells; glorious large bells of
pink, purple and white. A biennial.

of the whole group The flowers are very large, in lovely whitey
pink, blue and deep purple. The stalks of bloom are about 2 feet,
taU and they are very efl'ective when planted with the early blooming
varieties of Phlox. The Peach Bells (C, persicifolia) grows from 2 feet
to 3 feet high and its flowers, in blue or white, are more shaUow
than beU-shaped. It has narrow leaves and is very graceful. Of this
species, Moerheimei is the best white; some sorts are double.

The Chimney BeUflower (C. pyramidalis) is the taUest one. It
sends up long stalks of porcelain-blue and clear white flowers in August
and continues blooming for six weeks. When in fuU bloom, the plant
seems to form a perfect pyramid. Of the dwarfer varieties, which are
beautiful and useful in rock gardening, the Carpathian HarebeU (C. car-
patica) is probably the most popular It grows in dense tufts, not exceed-
ing 8 inches in width, and is covered with clear blue flowers borne on
wiry stems. The Scotch Harebell, the BluebeU of literature, is the C.
rotundifolia. It is an attractive flower having most dainty little bells

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS Q5

of blue which appear during late Spring. This sort is found wild in
many of the hills and mountains of our country and possesses a sort
of unexcelled daintiness.

Uses. The uses are almost as varied as the numerous forms. The
dwarfer varieties are especially suited for small borders, for baskets and
the rock garden. The tall ones, especially the Chimney Bellflower,
are adaptable for pot culture or as specimen plants and make a beauti-
ful decoration for the terrace or porch. The other varieties are ex-
cellent in the border or to use as cut flowers.

Culture. Campanulas should be given full sunhght and should
not be crowded in the beds. The taller varieties need staking to pre-
vent injury from the high winds. They like a good, rich soil, and in
the Spring a little fine manure and some bonemeal should be dug around
each plant. Most of the varieties, especially the taller ones, need
^^ inter protection, for if allowed to stand naturally, the heavy snows
will flatten the crown of leaves to the groimd, causing it to decay.
Forest leaves should be packed between the plants, holding the leaves
of the Campanula together with one hand. Evergreen boughs, straw
or hay wiU serve for the dwarfer ones. If the flowers are cut imme-
diately upon fading, the blooming season can be prolonged for several
weeks.

Propagation. Most of the Campanulas are biennials. For this
reason seed must be sown each year in order to have plants which will
bloom the next year. A mistake, commonly made, is in sowing the
seed too late. It should be sown any time from May until August,
according to the variety, in rich soil which has been carefully prepared,
and it should be watered daily. The plants should be hardened gradu-
aUy, after they have been wintered over in coldframes, and can be
removed to the open ground in May. The rows should be 12 inches
apart, with an almost equal amount of space between the plants.
Campanulas are also propagated by cuttings and division.

Caryopteris — Blue Spiraea

This Blue Spiraea is another one of the good, Fall blooming plants.
It is shrubby in nature, growing from 3 feet to 4 feet tall with small
leaves and clusters of small, rich lavender-blue flowers. It begins
blooming in September and continues until cut by the frost. The
flowers are arranged in whorls at the axils of the leaves and bloom al-

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Upper left. Poppy Mallow or Callirhoe, spreading its mat of color over the soil

all Summer; lower left, Turtle Head or Chelone, a wild flower to introduce to

the garden; upper right. Clematis, a blue sort which does not produce a vine; lower

right, Carpathian Harebell, a Bellflower of use for edging.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 67

most the entire length of the stem. Caryopieris Masiacanthus (incana)
is the common species.

Uses. This plant is excellent to place in front of tall, white
flowered perennials. It is sometimes grown in pots.

Culture. It requires protection in the AYinter for it is liable
to winterkill in the North, but with protection from the cutting north
winds and good drainage, it will live through severe Winters. It re-
quires sunshine and a sandy loam.

Propagation. The branches root easily in water. It is propa-
gated from seeds in the Spring or from cuttings taken from the plant
in Sunnner or Fall.

Cassia — American Senna, Indian Senna

A bold perennial for large masses, Cassia marilandica is an at-
tractive addition to the large perennial border. The flowers are pea-hke,
yeUow, with a dark center and are borne in large clusters. The leaves
are locust-hke; that is, they are finely divided. The plants grow
4 feet to 5 feet taU and bloom in August and September.

Uses. Large masses planted among shrubbery or in a wide
pereimial border are attractive. It may even be used as a hedge, for
the plants are rather woody.

Culture. Give the plants sun, and if a moist soil is available,
they will be at home in it.

Propagation, Cassias produce a large quantity of seed which
grows readily if sown as soon as ripe. The woody clumps may be
divided with a hatchet.

Centaurea — Knapweed, Hardy Cornflower,
Hardheads, Mountain Bluet

The Centaureas are some of the most graceful flowers to grow in
any garden. The flower heads are hke showy, ragged tliistle blooms of
bright red, deep purple, golden yellow and blue. They grow from 2 feet
to 3/^ feet tall and bloom during the Summer months.

Species. The Golden Knapweed {Centaurea macrocephala) is
perhaps the showiest of all because the thistle-hke, golden yellow flower
heads are very large. The plant itself is an erect and somewhat spindly
grower and the stems are stifl".

68 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

The Mountain Bluet (C. montand) has numerous deep blue flowers
somewhat resembling the annual Cornflower and grows l3^ feet taU.

The Knapweed (C. dealhata) has flowers which are Iflac-pink to
white in the center, or a bright red. This species seems to attract the
birds when the seed is ripe, thus making it hard to save the seed.

C. babylonica is a whitish perennial with yellow flowers which
grows at least 3 feet tall.

Several of the species are known as Dusty Millers; the fohage is
white throughout the Summer. C. cineraria (catalogued as can-
didissima) has less divided leaves than the other common species C.
gymnocarpa, but the leaves are usuaUy whiter.

Uses. Centaureas are used for the perennial border, for pots,
baskets and the rock garden. The Golden Knapweed is the largest
flowered sort and is most attractive planted among shrubs. Most of
these plants produce long stemmed and lasting flowers which are
admirable for cutting.

The Dusty MiUers have a real place in the garden for there is no
contrast so charming as that between the bright colors of most peren-
nials and the gray or whitish leaves of these plants. They may be
chpped low as edging plants.

Culture. Cetaureas are of very easy culture. They bloom
best when planted in an open, sunny position, with any good garden
soil. Chp back the Dusty Millers to keep them at the desired height
and form. The blooms are not valuable.

Propagation. They are propagated from seeds, although some
of the sorts may be readily divided. The Dusty Miflers are increased
both by seeds and cuttings.

Cerastium — Snow-in-Summer, Mouse-ear
Chickweed

Snow-in-Summer is surely a very descriptive name for this low
growing, white flowered and silvery fohaged plant. There are myriads
of smaU white flowers produced in June from a dense mat of growth.
Cerastium tomentosum is the common species and grows about 6 inches
high. C. Biehersteinii is very similar but grows a little taller and has
larger flowers. C. arvense is a green leaved species and stands the
hot Summers better than the other two.

Uses. These plants are invaluable for the rockery or as an
edgmg for beds and borders. They are also excellent to plant in dry.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS

sunny places as a carpet covering lor graves or sle(^p l)anks. The leaves
are as valuable as the flower.

Culture. The plants are very easily grown in any soil.

Propagation. They are propagated by seeds, cuttings or divi-
sions of the plant. The plant should be divided very early in the
season, either with or without roots, and planted deeply in well firmed
soil which sould be kept moist until roots have formed.

Chelone — Shell Flower, Turtle Head, Snake Head

The Chelone is sometimes confused with the Rearded Tongue
(Pentstemon), to which it is closely related. It is a late Summer
plant, coming into bloom about the middle of August and lasting for
six or seven weeks. The Shell Flow^er (Chelone glabra) has clusters of
flowers of a light creamy white. The plants grow about 3 feet tall.
The Turtle Head (C. Lyonii) has rose-purple flowers which grow from
a mass of deep green leaves. The flowers of Chelone are inflated and
long, tube-shaped, somewhat resembling the Snapdragon.

^Ei^ j^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^l

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1- ',

1% ^^^H

Lift, Snow-in-Summer or Cerastium, snowy masses of white flowers borne upon
low plants with white leaves; riyht, Coreopsis, a well-known flower for cutting.

70 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Uses. Because of their season of blooin and their rather attrac-
tive colors, they make good plants for the border, or to plant along
streams. S. N. Baxter suggests the Shasta Daisy as an effective fore-
ground companion plant.

Culture. Chelones thrive best in moist or swampy places, in
half shade. They are easy of culture. At blooming time, they should
be fertihzed or mulched deeply in order to conserve the moisture.

Propagation. They are propagated from seeds, cuttings or
divisions of the roots made in the Spring.

Chrysanthemums, Hardy

October and November are the months which marshal in the
Chrysanthemums and if these months be cold and rainy, the flowers
do not develop well, but if the days are warm and the nights frosty,
but not freezing, these flowers are in the height of their glory.

"All through the budding Springtime,
All through the Summer's heat,
All through the Autumn's glory.
They hide their blossoms sweet.

"But when the earth is lonely,

And the bitter north winds blow.

With a smile of cheer for the dear old year.

The lovely Christ flowers blow."

The catalogs are now listing certain varieties such as Cranfordia,
Normandie, Ruth Cumming, Mme. August Nonin and Eden, which are
known as early flowering varieties. One is more apt to get blooms
before freezing weather when these sorts are grown. Some of the
earher Pompons of the florists are hardy but only bloom early enough
in the most favorable years. Such varieties as Lillian Doty, Garza,
Golden Climax, Zenobia and Tiber belong to this group. It is suggested
that for the most northern gardens principaUy the earliest sorts be
chosen, for it is a great disappointment to have the buds freeze just ajs
they start to open. However, the Pompon group wiU actually stand
more real freezing than the early flowering varieties.

For Shasta Daisy, see p. 74;forPyrethrum,p. 146; also Daisy, p. 74.

Culture. Chrysanthemums wiU grow in any garden soil that
is rich enough, for they are gross feeders. Buy plants in early Spring
or divide old plants and reset each Spring, otherwise, they wiU become
too crowded and impoverish the soil. Extra large blooms may be pro-

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS tl

duced by feeding with liquid manure when the buds appear. Larger
flowers may be secured by pinching ofi* most of the smaller buds on
each stem. When the plants make too rank a growth early in the
season they may be cut back to cause them to branch and become
more compact. If the plants are thoroughly soaked with water once
or twice a week during the hot Summer, they will please us by produc-
ing better buds and flowers.

Protect the plants during the Fall rains and from the frost with a
canvas covering. Chrysanthemums have to be supported by tying to
stakes or to wires stretched horizontaUy above the bed. Cover with a
light mulch during the Winter. The mulch should be more of the
nature of a sun shade rather than a warm covering. It is easy to sufl'o-
cate the plants.

The plants are frequently troubled with mildew which can be
prevented from spreading by dusting with sulphur early in the
morning when the dew is on the plants.

Plants afi'ected with Hce should be sprayed every few days with
Black leaf 40 or some other tobacco extract until the bugs are all killed.

Propagation. The simplest method of increasing the number
of plants is to divide them in Spring. One can make cuttings, how-
ever, of the tops of the growing plants.

Cimicifuga — Bugbane, Bugwort, Virginia
Snakeroot, Black Cohosh

To all persons who are familiar with the common wild or native
woodland plants, the Snakeroot is weU known. This Snakeroot
(Cimicifuga racemosa) is a very tafl, late blooming plant, growing from
4 feet to 8 feet taU and flowering from July or August on. The large
leaves are cut very deeply and the flowers, smaU, white, feathery and
closely set, are borne on long stalks. Often over 18 inches of the stem
is in bloom at one time. C. dahurica has long spikes of creamy-white
flowers in September and grows about 6 feet tafl. C. simplex is the
latest sort and does not bloom until October, and its graceful stems of
white flowers are only 2 feet or 3 feet high. The long flowering stems
of aU the Snakeroots droop slightly and give the plant an appearance
of dignity and statehness. The buds are hke large pearls.

Uses. AU of the Snakeroots are suited to moist and shaded
positions, and because of this, they naturalize themselves very easily
along the edge of woodlands. The taller species are well suited for

72 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

plantJDg at the back of borders. All are good to use for cut flowers,
but C. simplex is especially so, because its flowers last longer when cut.

Culture. Snakeroots like moist conditions which are partly
shaded, but they will endure the sun. They thrive best in rich, leaf-
mold soils.

Propagation. They are propagated by division of the plant or
by seeds sown as soon as ripe.

Clematis — Shrubby Virgin's Bower

We shall speak here not of the climbing Clematis, but of the lower
growing sorts useful for massing, all of which form dense bushes
2 feet or 3 feet tall.

Clematis Davidiana blooms nearly all Summer, has Hyacinth-like,
bell-shaped, pale blue or lavender blue flowers in smaU clusters, which
are very fragrant. C. heracleaefolia is very simflar but with paler
flowers. C. recta has creamy-white, fragrant flowers, opening in June
and July. All of the flower clusters are showy and are followed by
flufl'y sflken seed heads. The leaves stay a bright dark green all
Summer.

Uses. Many of the species are desirable for cutting. In the
garden they should be planted in masses or used as specimen plants.
C. recta is especially valued for large masses of white flowers.

Culture. These plants are adapted to partial shade. They pre-
fer a loam soil and seem to hke hme.

Propagation. They are propagated by division of the plants
or by cuttings.

Convallaria — Lily of the Valley, May Bells

The poet has given the name to the Lily of the Vafley, and the
botanist, not as prosaic as usual, has translated the name to the Latin
word Convallaria.

*'No flower amid the garden fairer grows

Than the sweet Lily of the lowly vale."

Uses. We must have this favorite with us the year round. In

the Winter the florist grows Lily of the Valley in the greenhouse for

weddings and for bouquets of various sorts. When they bloom in

our gardens we cherish them as highly as any other flower for the

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 73

lapel, the corsage or for the small vase. In the garden they grow in
the shady spots where some other flowers become pouty and will not
grow.

Culture. The cultm'e is of the simplest. Give them shade and
enrich the soil with manure applied in the Fall as a mulch. They in-
crease rapidly and need to be replanted every three or four years in
order that larfre flowers may be obtained.

Propagation. When old clumps are dug they naturaUy fall
apart and no plant could be easier to propagate.

Coreopsis — Tickseed

Coreopsis is surely one plant that should be in every garden as
it is one of the most popular hardy, yellow flowers. The common
name, Tickseed, is very appropriate, because the seed of the plant
looks hke a bug; however, the flowers are exceedingly attractive.
They first begin to bloom early in June and are a mass of gold until
the frost kiUs them. The leaves are fight green and narrow, while the
flowers, which look fike a Daisy, are golden yellow in color and measure
from 2 inches to 3 inches across. The plant is bushy and spreading
and the stems of the flowers are strong, wiry and graceful. Coreopsis
lanceolata grandiflora is the species most worthy of cultivation. The
plants attain a height of 3 feet and are especially in their golden glory
during June. C. verticillata is a smafi flowered species with finely cut
fofiage. The plants bloom all Summer and grow 12 feet tall. C. rosea
is an interesting little plant, never much taller than a foot, and with
rosy -pink flowers and fine leaves. This sort has creeping root stocks.

Uses. C. lanceolata grandiflora is invaluable for use as cut flower
on account of its long, wiry, leafless stems. All sorts are good in the
border where huge clumps are very showy.

Coreopsis is nearly always planted in front of Delphiniums, and
they combine well with Shasta Daisies.

Culture. They are of easiest culture, but prefer sunfight and
rich, damp soil. The flowers must be kept picked in order to insure a
long blooming period. If planted on the north side, they should have
sfight Winter protection, such as coarse straw or Pine boughs.

Propagation. They are propagated by seeds and division of the
plants. If the seeds are sown very early, the plants will bloom the
first year, but if they arc planted in July or August, the plants will
bloom the succeeding year. Seeds should be sown every year, since
the older plants tend to get woody and do not bloom as well.

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS
Daisies

The word "Daisy"
was formerly written
Day's Eye, and the
Daisies are really well
named, for there is
no season in the gar-
den when some sort
of Daisy is not in
bloom.

The Shasta Daisy,
Chrysanthemum maxi-
mum, is hke a field
Daisy seen through a
magnifying glass.
Most of us like the
bright, Daisy-like
flowers and we are
dehghted with the
Shasta Daisy because
it blooms so freely
and has long stems
useful for cutting. As
garden subjects they
are low growing and
are charming for use
as edging plants. They are readily propagated, both by seeds and
division of the plants. Dampness in the Winter, not cold, injures them.
If a light covering of straw is given during the Winter they will be
well protected, but a thick covering will do more harm than
good.

The Giant Daisy {Chrysanthemum uliginosum) has a white flower,
but diff'ers from the field Daisy in that the plants are 4 feet to 7 feet
taU. They are propagated by seeds or division and it is said that they
bloom the first year from seed. They are good background perennials
and are also useful for cut flowers. Low, moist places are ideal for this
Daisy. They are successfully naturahzed.

For Pink Daisy, see Pyrethrum, p. 146, and English Daisy, see
Bellis, p. 58.

Shasta Daisy, the giant among fortune tellers.

INOIEWORJ'HY PERENNIALS 75

Daphne — Garland Flower

The Sweet scent of the Daphnes, together with the fact that one
sort is evergreen and another blooms in Midwinter, endears the Daphne
to the lover of garden gems. These plants are really shrubs, but because
of their low growth and general habit, they more closely resemble the
herbaceous perennials.

Daphne CneorumiGaildind Flower). The bright pink, four-parted,
fragrant flowers and evergreen leaves combine to make this plant truly
beautiful. The plants are hardly a foot tall and bloom in April and in
October.

Daphne Mezereum (Spurge Flax), not being evergreen, surprises
us by producing lilac-purple flowers any time from February to April.
Tliis sort grows 3 feet tall.

Uses. The Daphnes are adapted to the border, although the
Garland Flower is admirably adapted to a rock garden.

Culture. They grow in full sun or partial shade and light soils.
Give them protection in Winter.

Propagation. One can layer branches of the Garland Flower in
the Spring, but the Spurge Flax is not readily propagated by the
amateur.

Delphinium — Larkspur

Old John Parkinson, nearly 300 years ago, wrote "Wee call
them in Enghsh Larkes heeles, Larkes spurres, Larkes toes or
claws." The Larkspur is surely one of the oldest old-fashioned
flowers but it is becoming more popular today than ever. How
choice are its colors! How suggestive is the word "lark" in
christening this flower, as the lark comes from the sky, so comes
also the color of the Larkspur. From the azure of the sky to the deep
blues of the ocean depths is its range of blue. But blues are
not the only colors; there are the pastel shades, not blue, nor pink,
which suggest the combinations of color in Copenhagen pottery.
There are the dainty double pink sorts which suggest magnificent
brocades. And what gems we find! Deep sapphires, superb amethysts,
subtle turquoises and rich garnets. Like tiny peace doves are the white
sorts.

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

And in form, how diverse! We see the dolphin in the unopen bud.
We note a bee gathering nectar from a bloom and find, instead, that
it is the hairy petals at its center. We regard the tall spikes and see
them covered by countless horns-of-plenty, some of them pouring gold.
Uses. Can a garden be planted without Larkspurs? Foliage
flower, habit and all, every garden lover must have them. The tall,
the short, the perennial, the annual— they are indispensable in their
chosen places. Consider the long season of pleasure at seeing them in
full splendor. Day after day in June, July, and often in September,
new spikes open their blossoms. Erect and stately against a fence,
majestic accents in a mixed border, sturdy and hardy in the cottage
garden, as well as modest and delicate in the beds of annuals, the
Larkspurs are incomparable.

Varieties. The catalogs should be consulted for varieties of
Larkspurs; there are many very superior named sorts and in all cases
more to be trusted for color and habit than plants grown from seed.

The modern race has
been greatly improved
through years of ef-
fort, especially in Eng-
land. Recently we in
America are develop-
ing varieties of our
own which are better
suited to our climate.
Besides the tall sorts,
the garden lover
should note the
Chinese Larkspur
fisted in his catalog.
This is a true joy as
it blooms throughout
the Summer, yielding
short stems crowded
with white, pink or
violet flowers. The
Chinese Larkspurs dif-
fer from most other
perennial sorts by
having finely divided
leaves. The real en-

A noble clump of hardy Larkspur thusiast is tomptod by

Ifcll

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m^^fs^^^^^m

■4

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 77

n'adin^^ the descriptions in the (•atal()|,^s of certain sorts Hsted as Del-
phinium nudicaule, a dwarf orange-scarlet, D. Zalil, a yellow, D. car-
dinale, a bright red. These sorts do not have the robust constitution
nor the hardiness of the other kinds but they are worth trying.

Culture. Delphiniums like plenty of sun. The soil should be
rich, deeply prepared, a cool, friable loam. Even hot, sandy soils, if
watered and fertilized, will produce excellent results. Moisture will
increase the size of the flowers and spikes. Cultivate the plants con-
stantly with the hoe. Many of the taller sorts are benefited by being
staked. If the plants are cut back after blooming and given a period
of rest, during which they are neither watered nor cultivated, then if
given bonemeal and an abundance of water, they will send up a second
crop of bloom in the Fall. Some persons beheve that this weakens the
plants. No seed should be allowed to form to keep the plants in a
blooming condition.

Troubles. Some of the best sorts are frequently troubled with
blight so that they sometimes live only a few years. Dig dry Rordeaux
Mixture about the crowns or spray weekly with ammoniacal copper
carbonate. In fact, keep the plants covered with this spray from
early Spring until Fall. The foliage is blackened by blight. If you
suspect that blight is in your soil, use bonemeal as a, fertilizer, but
never use manure.

Sometimes cut worms and slugs eat the crowns of Delphiniums,
so that it is wise to cover the crowns of the plants with ashes at the
approach of Winter. Also use a poisoned bait spread at intervals near
the plants.

Propagation. Larkspur seed over a year old will not grow.
Except for D. grandiflorum, the Chinese Larkspur, the seedlings will
not produce flowers the first year unless sown in March in a hotbed or
sunny window. Usually, however, fresh seed is sown in August, in
which case they w ill bloom the next year.

Divide the plants every three or four years in order to keep them
from exhausting the soil and becoming too compact in growth.

The double sorts, which produce no seed, may be rooted from
cuttings. Some persons are successful in rooting these in frames during
Spring. Samuel N. Raxter in the Florists Exchange advises bury-
ing the cuttings in a heap of soil, head first, with only the cut ends
exposed. The drying of the wounds for several days causes them to
root more easily.

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Dianthus — Hardy Pinks, Sweet William, Maiden

Pink, Grass Pink, Pheasant's Eye, Chinese

Pink, Picotee, Carnation, Clove Pink

The Pinks and the Sweet Williams are still one of the old-fashioned
favorites for the garden. There are many species and varieties, nearly
all of which make dense tufts of grass-like growth.

The Sweet William (Di-
anthus barbaius) is gorgeous
when in bloom. The early
English writers used to tell us
that the narrow-leaved varie-
ties were called Sweet Johns
and the broad-leaved sorts
Sweet WiUiams. However,
the sweetness and beauty of
the flowers compensate for the
lack of knowledge about their
namesakes. The color scheme
ranges from purest white to
blackest red with an infinite
number of variations and com-
binations of colors. The pink
sort, known as Newport Pink,
is a very desirable one with a
distinct new color which flo-
rists call watermelon-pink or
salmony-rose. The Sweet
WilMams grow from 1 foot to
\}/^ feet tafl and bloom all Sunmier. The flowers are arranged in large
clusters of bloom and those which are ringed and spotted are very novel.

The Glove or Garden Pinks (/). plumarius) are low growing
plants which bloom in early Spring. The single and double flowers
have fringed or jagged petals and are very fragrant. The colors range
from white to bright scarlet and are very dainty, growing above a dense
tuft of gray-green, grass-hke leaves.

The Ghinese Pinks {D. chinensis, var Heddewigii) is a biennial;
that is, the seeds must be planted every year in order to have flowers
the next. They also have a wide range of color and markings and are
very popular. The double forms are especially attractive and the petals

Sweet William, an old favorite appearing
at its best.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS

Clove Pink. Incomparable for edging.

are often deeply and oddly cut. These sorts lack fragrance. They
bloom later than the others and last till frost-time.

Another interesting sort with flowers much like a Carnation is D.
latifoliiis atrococcineus, the Everblooming Sweet WiUiam, which has
intense crimson, double flowers. The plants grow 18 inches tall
and are constantly in bloom in Summer.

Among the dwarf varieties are foimd the Maiden Pink (D. del-
toides), a dwarf trailer with rosy-pink or white flowers which open
from June to August.

Uses. The Pinks are very fragrant and free bloomers. They are
good for cutting, and for the rock garden, together with the drawfer
sorts. All are good for edgings or to use in borders.

Culture. AU of the above Pinks, are of easy culture and except
for the Sweet William and the Chinese Pinks, last for many years. All
like a warm soil and one that wiU not become too wet at any time.
The plants will die out quickly if the soil is not weU drained. They
should be divided often, else the plants will choke themselves out.
The Sweet William should be treated as a biennial, sowing the seed
each year. When not propagated each year the plants and flowers
are not as large.

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Propagation. These plants often self-sow. They are all readily
propagated from seeds sown in rieh soil in April or May, although good
sized plants may be grown from seed sown in Midsummer. The double
sorts must be propagated from cuttings if they are to come true. Layer-
ing has proven the easiest and surest way of propagating the Garden
Pinks (D. plumarius).

Dicentra and Dielytra — Includes Bleeding Heart,

Squirrel's Corn, Dutchman's Breeches

The grace of the Dicentras charms us whether in the woods or the
garden.

The Bleeding Heart, Dicentra {Dielytra) spedahilis is one of our
most showy old-fashioned flowers which everyone loves. It grows
from 2 feet to 4 feet tall and spreads out almost the same distance.
The leaves, which are alight, transparent green, are very neat, ex-
ceedingly graceful and very fern-like. The flowers are heart-shaped,
varying from a light pink to a rosy-crimson in color, and are produced
in sprays along the stems. Have you ever taken one of these flowers
apart to discover many interesting things— the two rabbits, a harp,

Right, Bleeding Heart or Dicentra, an old-fashioned flower of quaint charm; left,
Gas Plant or Fraxinella, interesting not only for its flowers, but also for its seed

capsules.

NOTE\yORTHY PERENNIALS 81

i,'randpa's glasses and a bottle? The Bleed ini; Heart is closely related
to many of our daintiest woodland flowers.

The Squirrel's Corn (D. canadensis) has small tubers resembling a
kernel of Corn, the wliite flowers tipped with rose. The Dutchman's
Breeches (D. Cucullaria) has white flowers tipped with creamy yellow,
the flowers closely resembling their namesake. Both of these sorts
are natives.

The Plumy Bleeding Heart (D. eximia) is said to have the hand-
somest foliage of any border plant. Its flowers are rosy-pink and
it is in bloom from May through August. It grows 9 to 12 inches
tall and is a most worthy plant. The other Dicentras bloom earher —
in April, May and June.

The Golden Ear-drops (Z). chrysantha) has golden yellow flowers,
but is not so well known as the other native ones.

Uses. The Bleeding Heart is fine for the border or margins of
shrubbery. It is also grown as a pot plant and it forces so well that it is
useful as a window plant. The native or woodland species naturalize
beautifuUy along woodland walks, in the rock garden or in beds of
ferns.

Culture. As soon as the flowers of the Dicentras have finished
blooming, the foliage dies down. This makes it difficult to keep track
of the various sorts unless they are in locations not easily forgotten.
They are very easy of culture, doing weU in either shady or sunny
positions, although they are more at home in the shade. They hke
a rich, light soil.

Propagation. They are propagated from seeds, division of the
roots, or from young shoots which start from the soil in early Spiing.
These shoots or the roots should be divided just before they start
growth.

Dictamnus — Gas Plant, Burning Bush, Dittany

The Gas Plant is surely one of our most interesting plants. The
glossy, leathery leaves are dark green and retain their deep color until
late in FaU. The white, pink and purplish-brown flowers are borne
on spikes 2 feet to 3 feet high. Both the foliage and flowers are fragrant
and when the parts are crushed in the hand, they have the fragrance
of a lemon. The Gas Plant begins blooming shortly after Memorial
Day, and the seeds ripen about the middle of August. The whole
plant gives off" a strong, volatile oil which will give a flash of light if a
lighted match is held under the clusters of seed capsules on a sultry

82 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Summer evening. This Gas Plant (Didamnus albus or Fraxinella) is a
very strong grower and when once estabhshed, many dozen stalks of
bloom can be had to a single plant.

Uses. Because of its large trusses of flowers and fascinating odor,
the Gas Plant always finds a place in the hardy border, or as a single
specimen. They make excellent cut flowers.

Culture. The Gas Plant dislikes disturbance very much. When
once planted it should be left in the same position always, for as the
plants grow older they will then produce many more and taUer flower
stems. They require hardly any care, but prefer a rather heavy and
moderately rich soil in an open, sunny position. When once established
drought does not aff'ect them.

Propagation. They are more easily raised from seeds than by
root division. The seeds should be sown as soon as they are ripe in the
Fall. If the seed is sown in the Spring, pour boiling water over them
first, or they will not germinate easily. It takes from two to four years
for the flower spikes to appear on young plants. The roots, being very
hard, may be divided with difficulty.

Doronicum — Leopard's Bane

The Leopard's Bane is one of the few hardy plants which blossom
very early in the Spring and continues into the Autumn. It grows
about 2 feet high and has broad, oblong leaves of a rich, soft green
color which appear with the first signs of Spring. The single flowers
are produced on long, stiff" stems and resemble a very large yellow Daisy
with a yeUow center. In fact, these are the earhest yellow Daisy-like
flowers. Doronicum plantagineum excelsum is the most commonly cul-
tivated sort. The flowers are 4 inches in diameter and the plants
grow 3 feet to 4 feet taU. They begin to bloom in early Spring and
continue through the Smimtier. D. caucasicum grows 12 inches to
18 inches tall. The catalogs also include D. austraiacum and D. Clusii
as being good sorts.

Uses. Because of their long, straight stems, they make exceUent
cut flowers and they last for a number of days when placed in water.
Because of their rich golden color, they are splendid for the border,
for they begin blooming when yeUow flowers are rather scarce. If
placed in pots, they can be easily forced into flower during the Winter
months for the window garden. They succeed well when planted
aniOTig the Spring bulbous flowers and shrubs or in the rock garden, and

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS

they are equally attractive wlien planted in masses or when used as
single plants.

Culture. They grow readily anywhere if planted in rich loam
and are equally good in shady or sunny positions.

Propagation. The plants should be divided soon after they
finish flowering.

Digitalis — Foxglove, Witches' Thimbles

"The Foxglove, in whose drooping bells the bee
Makes her sweet music."

— B. Cornwall

A well grown Foxglove in full flower is a plant of dignity and
beauty. The long flowering spikes grow from 3 feet to 6 feet tall,
rising high above large clumps of broad, downy leaves. Upon the
flowering stalk, the
flowers open slowly
as the impulse to
bloom moves upward.
This tends to length-
en the blooming sea-
son. The flowers are
tubular or beU-shaped
and hang closely on
one side of the stem
so that sometimes
four rows try to oc-
cupy the same posi-
tion. This arrange-
ment is more ap-
parent than real, for
the flowers reaUy or-
iginate on all sides of
the stem, but the
short stems somehow
twist around so that
they all seem to be
on one side. These
spikes which are so
tall and erect, bear

the SmaH, thimble- a ma... of Foxgloves we all may have.

84 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

like flowers in many colors — white, lilac, purple, rose and yellow —
with odd and various shadings and markings. They bloom in June
and July.

D. purpurea is the commoner sort and bears purple to white
flowers. There is, however an interesting form of D. purpurea, known
as Monstrosa, or the Mammoth Foxglove, which has a large saucer-
shaped flower surmounting the spike.

D. grandi flora (ambigua) is the yeflow^ flowered species. It has
smaller, narrower leaves and does not attain the height of D. purpurea.

The Wooly Foxglove (D. lanata) is an interesting sort with long,
dense spikes of smafl, grayish flowers marked with yellow. This sort
does not resemble the other Foxgloves.

Uses. They are planted in masses in the garden among the
shrubs, in solid beds, in the border, in the orchard or naturahzed on the
edge of the woods or along brooks. Wherever they are planted, they
give an appearance of strength and dignity. They are exceflent for
decorations where tall-spiked flowers are needed.

Foxgloves are beautifully combined with Sweet Williams and
Hardy Grass Pinks. A whole border of this combination is suggested.

Foxgloves need no edging plants as their foliage is most attractive,
even at the soil.

Culture. Foxgloves succeed well in any garden soil which has
been enriched with old manure. They naturalize very readily in half-
shaded positions, but will grow in full sunhght if the ground is moist.
If the main flow ering stem is cut after it has finished blooming, many
others will come up. Liquid manure should be given to the plants
during the flowering season. They require a light Winter protection,
which must not be given, however, until after a good freezing of the
soil. Dry leaves or pine boughs will serve as a sufficient covering for
the fohage. Dampness, either from ill-drained soil or too much mulch-
ing, will injure the plants quicker than anything else. The leaves must
be kept dry and on mild days plenty of air should be given to prevent
sweating and heating.

Propagation. Foxgloves are propagated most easily from seeds
which should be sown every year in order to have blooming plants the
next year. The Foxgloves are treated as biennials. The seed should be
sown in late Summer or Fall and wintered over in the coldframe.
When the plants are once estabfished they should not be disturbed,
although new plants can be started by root division.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 85

Echinacea — Purple Cone Flower

The bold and hearty character of the Purple Cone Flower makes
it a striking plant. The flowers are rosy purple with dark, stifl\ quill-
like centers touched with golden crimson. Echinacea purpurea is the
common sort and is frequently listed in catalogs under Rudbeckia
purpurea. Sometimes when plants are raised from seed objectionable
muddy colors are obtained which are not worthy a place in the garden.
The plants grow 3 feet to 4 feet tall and bloom from July until frost.
The leaves are large and thick.

Uses. The drooping character of the rosy-purple petals give them
a distinctive character in the border, although the color at best is
difficult to combine with other flowers.

Culture. They will tolerate dry, sun-baked locations but are
better in good soil.

Propagation. The easiest method of increasing these plants is
to divide the clumps.

Echinops — Globe Thistle

The Globe Thistle is very interesting if one likes thorny, prickly
plants. The leaves are large, deeply cut and very prickly. The stems
are silver-white, while the flowers are either white or a grayish metallic-
blue. The flower heads are round Uke a ball and are entirely covered
with needle-hke thistles. All of the species bloom from June or July
through September. Echinops Hiiro has deep steel blue flowers and
grows about 3 feet high. E. sphserocephalus is the tallest growing
species, attaining a height of from 5 feet to 7 feet with large, white
flowers.

Uses. All the Globe Thistles are distinctive plants and are well
adapted to plant in borders, among shrubbery or to use as bold speci-
men plants. The flower heads, which are excellent for cutting, can be
dried and will remain attractive for months. They are also suitable
for naturahzing in wild gardens.

Culture. They are of easiest culture, growing best in a light
soil.

Propagation. They are propagated by seeds and division.

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Upper left, Leopard's Bane or Doronicum, a glorious, Daisy-like flower of April;
upper right, Globe Thistle or Echinops, unique and "something different" for the
border; lower left, Gaillardia or Blanket Flower, bright and showy flowers in keep-
ing with the Fall season; Zouer right, Purple Cone Flower or Echinacea, with its
high, quill-like center.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 87

Edelweiss

Everyone knows of the fame of the small Edelweiss of the Alps
and every tourist who travels through Switzerland learns the mysterious
story of how they grow under overhanging chfTs which means the risk
of hfe when one wishes to get them. But ideal plants can be grown in
our own garde^ns just as easily as any other plant. They are one of the
hardiest of plants and withstand severe Winters. The plant is low,
growing from 4 inches to 12 inches high, and is densely covered with a
whitish wool. The leaves are silvery-gray and lie almost flat on the
ground. From the center grows a flower stem which has three or four
star-like flowers. The true flowers themselves are small and incon-
spicuous, but they are surrounded by this star-like cluster of wooly
leaves. This Edelweiss is called Leontopodium (Gnaphalium) alpinum, a
sort 6 inches taU, bearing three or four flowers. L. sibiricum has
flowers twice the size of the Alpine Edelweiss but without the senti-
mental associations.

Uses. This is an ideal plant for the rockery.

Culture. If these plants are placed where they will be exposed
fully to the sun, they wiU be a greenish gray, but they will be a creamy
white if planted in partial shade. Any good sandy garden soil will do
in which some Umestone has been mixed. If the plant is placed be-
tween two rather closely fitting rocks with plenty of sandy soil beneath,
it will succeed nearly as well as it does in the Alps.

Propagation. They are propagated by seeds sown indoors in
early Spring to be placed in the open border about the first of May;
or by division of the roots in the FaU.

Epimedium — Bishop's Hat, Barrenwort

After reading the description of the Epimedium by Miss M. R.
Case in "Horticulture," we have decided to abandon all hopes of
describing this dainty flower in our own crude words. She writes:

"Blossoming under a great Oak, where Maidenhair and Dicksonia
ferns grow to perfection, is a dainty herb from Japan known as the Bishop's
Hat, from the square, flat shape of its blossoms.

"The blossoms are in loose sprays which branch ofi" from the main stems
2 inches below where the main stem divides into the three sprays which
bear the leaves. They come in buff" or soft yellow, maiive and white.
The one which has done the best at Hillcrest, Epimedium macranthum,
gives the bishop a yellow lining to his dark red hat. It is well arranged

88 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

for his grace's comfort, as under the square, flat hat is a little cap to hold
it well in place. It is so pretty a hat that we hope it is in the ritual of the
floral world for it to be worn in the ceremonies of their service.

"The loose spray of blossoms is 6 inches long from where it branches
from the main stem. The whole plant is more than a foot in height; the
single flower about the size of a dime. The pretty red buds are on the
spray with the flowers.

"The leaves are a soft yellow green, parallel veined and pointed at the
apex. The main stem divides into three sprays for the leaves. The whole
plant has an airy, unusual and very pleasing effect. The old leaves persist
on the stems through the Winter and have to be gathered with the Spring
litter from the gardens.

"It should not be confused with the Bishop's Gap, Mitrewort or Mit-
ella, which more nearly resembles the Tiarella or Foam Flower. His Grace,
the Bishop, is well adorned in Puritan New England."

Some of the species are£J. alpinum, with gray, crimson and yellow
flowers; E. macranthum, with hlac flowers; E. niveum, with white flowers,
and E. Musschianum, with golden yellow blossoms.

Uses. There is probably no other flower which lasts so long in
water as do the Bishop's Hats. If they are picked close to the ground
when the leaves are mature, they wiU last at least two months in water.
They are good for pot plants and for the border where they should
reaUy be planted in masses in order that their delicate flowers may be
appreciated. They are excellent plants for the rockery.

Culture. They prefer a moist, sandy loam and partial shade.
If planted in the rockery, they must not get too dry. The soil should
not be disturbed around them at any time, as it injures the roots.

Propagation. They are propagated by dividing the roots.
This can be done in either FaU or Spring.

Erigeron — Fleabane

The Erigeron has Aster-like flowers which are in bloom during the
Summer months. The difl'erent species vary in height from 5 inches to
3 feet. The flowers grow from small tufts of leaves, somewhat like the
EngUsh Daisy (Bellis) and the blooms of the taller varieties measure
2 inches and !^3^ inches^ across. The colors are violet-blue, bright pur-
ple, apricot, rose and rosy lavender and these colored petals surround
a golden yellow center.

Erigeron speciosus is the commonest cultivated sort. It has
bright purple flowers, grows 2 feet tall, and blooms all Summer. E.
glabellus is a dwarf sort growing from G inches to 12 inches tall and with

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 89

large, light purple flowers. E. aurandarus is possibly the showiest one
with deep orange flowers and is known as the Double Orange Daisy.
All of the Erigerons spread to form dense bushes of growth and the
flowers are in groups of from three to five to a stem or head.

Uses, The Erigerons are fine to use for eut flowers and are used,
in the hardy border. The smaller kinds are excellent for rock work
and the front of borders.

Culture, When planted so that they get some shade during
the middle of the day, they will continue to bloom for a longer season.

Propagation. The simple method of propagating the Erigerons
is to divide the clumps in Spring, Even early Spring-sown seed results
in good bloom the first season.

Eryngium — Sea Holly, Ivory Thistle

This is a prickly plant in every feature — the leaves are prickly,
the flower heads are surrounded by spreading, prickly floral bracts and
tlie flower head itself is like a small Teazle, The beauty of this plant
depends upon the blue-gray effect which it presents. They grow to a
lieight of 3 feet and bloom from June to September,

Eryngium amethystinum has amethyst-colored flowers and grows
at least 2 feet tall, E. planum has numerous small flower heads and
shining stems, E. maritimum has whitish or pale blue flowers and grows
1 foot tall, E. Oliierianum grows 3 feet tall and has large flower heads
of deep blue flowers.

Uses. The Eryngium is most effective when massed on the lawn,
and its uses as a cut flower are many. It is very decorative for basket
work, or combined in vases with Gladioli, The branches can be dried,
so that the flowers are used in Winter bouquets. The plants are used
in wild gardens or grouped with the shrubbery.

Culture, Eryngiums thrive best in full sun, in light, sandy
loam. They withstand dry seasons well and when once established
should not be moved often.

Propagation. They are raised from seeds, but some have found
that certain of the sorts are rather capricious although the plants
frequently self-sow their seeds and spread rapidly. Sow the seed as
soon as ripe, in which case they germinate the next Spring. The plants
are divided with difficulty.

90 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Eupatorium — White Snakeroot, Thoroughwort,
Hemp Agrimony, Mist-Flower, Joe-Pye Weed

How often we are tempted to praise the beauties of some foreign
flower while our excellent native ones pass by with Httle attention.
There are many sorts of Eupatoriums and most of them can be found
growing wild in our own coimtry. The hardy Ageratum or Mist
Flower (Eupatorium or Conoclinium ccelestinum) has myriads of small,
fluffy, azure-blue flowers which are in bloom during August and
September. The plant reaches a height of 2 feet. The White Snake-
root {E. urtic 88 folium or ageratoides) has pure white flowers and grows
from 4 feet to 5 feet taU, while the Boneset or Thoroughwort {E.
perfoliatum), which also has white flowers, only grows 2 feet or 3 feet
tall. The leaves of this sort are in pairs, united at the base about the
stem. The Joe-Pye Weed (E, purpureum) is very tall, growing from 4
feet to 10 feet and has large, purple, showy heads of flowers. The
leaves are in whorls. Most of them bloom in late Summer or early
Autumn with an average height of 3 feet to 5 feet.

Uses. The Joe-Pye Weed is found in wet meadows or along
streams and will naturahze easily along woodland streams, or moist
places in parks. The Mist-Flower and the White Snakeroot are excel-
lent for cutting purposes. All Eupatoriums are good in borders with
the taller ones in the background, or to naturalize in woodlands. Some
of them are exceUent to use with shrubs.

Culture. They are of easiest culture, growing in almost any
sofl, although a rather hght, weU drained soil and a sunny position
will produce large plants with numerous blooms. The Joe-Pye Weed,
however, requires a moist situation.

These plants increase in profusion of flowers and size of trusses
when transplanted from the wild.

Propagation. They are propagated from seeds or by division
of the clumps.

Hardy Ferns — Shield Fern, Hay-scented or Gos-
samer Fern, Lady and Male Ferns, Royal
Fern, Maidenhair Fern, Cinnamon Fern,
Walking Fern, Climbing Fern

Almost everybody has a spot in the garden around the home
which is so shady that very few plants will grow there and consequently
these spots are bare eyesores. Have you ever taken a walk through

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS

A shaded nock of ferns and Plantain Lilies

dense, cool green woods and admired the wealth of ferns growing there
so luxuriantly, and wished that you could have them around your own
home to lend their quiet and cool atmosphere ? Most of these ferns
can be grown easily if one is willing to give a Uttle attention to their
care.

The Maidenhair Fern {Adiantum pedatum) is perhaps one of the
most dehcate of these hardy ferns. It grows from 12 inches to 18 inches
high and has long, curved fronds borne on long, slender, black stems.
W hen this fern is once well established, it increases very rapidly.

The Royal or Flowering Fern {Osmunda regalis) is very stately,
growing from 2 feet to 3 feet high. The fronds are large and pale green
in color.

The Ciimamon Fern {Osmunda cinnamomea) often grows 5 feet
high. When its fronds unfold they are covered with a rusty wool, but
as they develop they become perfectly smooth.

The Hay-scented or Gossamer Fern (Dicksonia punctilohula)
grows in masses 18 inches high. It spreads very rapidly. The fronds
are large and much divided.

The Lady Fern {Asplenium Filix-foemina) and the Male Fern
{Lastrea Filix-mas) are two of the best ones for general gardening.

92 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

The Lady Fern grows from 2 feel to 3 feet tall and has Imely cut
foliage, while the Male Fern is an evergreen sort growing about 18
inches high.

The Walking Fern {Campiosorus rhizophyllus) is a low creeping
fern. It grows in little tufts with evergreen fronds which take
root when they touch the ground, forming other small plants.

The Climbing or Hartford Fern {Lygodium palmatum) is another
small, dainty fern. Its slender stalk will grow from 1 foot to 4 feet
high, with smaU, palmately cut leaves.

The Christmas Fern, Asplenium acrostichoides, is an evergreen
sort and is more showy in Winter than in Summer. It is especially at
home in rocky places, prefering moisture and shade.

The Aspidiums, especially A. marginale and A. spinulosa, are
attractive ferns for moist places.

A very common fern, the Common Polypody, Polypodium vulgare,
although not individually beautiful, is seen to advantage upon the
ledges of gorges where it forms dense mats of foliage.

There are a great many different species of ferns and if they are
carefully studied, almost any corner in any garden can be supplied
with a touch of fern.

Uses. Since most of these ferns require a shady and moist situa-
tion, they can be massed along shady, woodland paths, at the edges
of ponds or along the sides of streams. Many are good for planting on
the north side of houses and as edges for borders. The small ones are
ahnost invaluable for the rock garden or near niiall artificial waterfalls.
In the ordinary garden very pretty effects are gained by planting the
early flowering bulbous plants among them, because the fronds of the
ferns begin to unfurl very early in Spring. Collections of hardy ferns
are extremely interesting. Many of the sorts are good for cutting
during the Summer.

Culture. Very few of these ferns will grow in sunny situations.
Try to imitate nature when planting them in your gardens. Shady or
semi-shady places aie best, planted underneath trees and around tall
shrubbery, where the plants will be more or less protected from the
sun and hot, dry winds. Good drainage is absolutely necessary and it
is advisable to raise the fern bed 3 inches or 4 inches in order to insure
this. Plenty of water should be supphed during the dry Summer
months. In preparing the soil, dig as deeply as the roots of the trees
will allow. If the soil is clayey or poor, use plenty of decayed leaves,
peat, manure and other loose materials. The soil should be very fine,
light and porous. When planting the small ferns in the rockery almost

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 93

pure leafmold can be used. None of the ferns should be set deeply in
the soil, most of them requiring about an inch of soil covering. Those
which grow from crowns should be set on the soil so that the crown
is not covered. Ample room should be left between the plants because
they spread so readily. The Royal or Flowering Fern can be grown
in 2 or 3 inches of still water or in very moist places. The Cinnamon
Fern is usually found in mucky soils. The Gossamer Fern is one of
the best to grow along walks for it will grow in either sun or shade.

Ferns should be reset in the Spring or during the Summer through
August. This will give plenty of time for a new set of fronds to come
while the roots are getting estabhshed. If they are planted in the
Fall they require a good mulching of leaves. The fronds should be
cut back when the plants are moved.

Propagation. The Ferns are propagated by dividing the root
stalks, which are the underground stems from which the upright stems
grow.

Funkia — Day Lily, Plantain Lily, Corfu Lily

Two sorts of flowers have been called Day Lilies — Funkia (or
Hosta, as it is sometimes called) and Hemerocallis. Both are old
favorites in the garden. The flowers of the latter group are orange and
yellow (see HemerocaUis, page 106). Most of the Funkias are grown
for their exceUent foliage which is produced in clumps. The one
most commonly grown in om* gardens is the Corfu Lily (F. grandiJJora
or subcordata). Its leaves are a glossy light green color with spikes
of pure white Lily-like flowers It grows about 2 feet high and spreads
in a circle about 3 feet across The flowers are very fragrant, appearing
during August and September. The Common Day Lily {F. cwrulea)
grows \}/2 feet high, blooms during July, and has mauve or blue droop-
ing flowers. F. Sieholdiana is one of the strongest growers in this group.
It is 2}/2 feet taU, has white flowers tinged with hlac produced in July
and has very large, grayish-green leaves. There are some of these
Plantain Lilies with variegated foliage, bright green margined in white,
of which F. undulata variegaia is one of the best They keep on growing,
improving every year as the clumps increase in size.

Uses. Funkias are perhaps most useful in the various kinds of
borders. The dwarfer variegated kinds are used for edging purposes.
They can be used as specimen plants in the lawn, planted near lakes or
streams, or grouped around shrubbery Both the fohage and flowers
are distinct, beautiful and attractive wherever planted. Some of them
are used in rock gardens. They are exceUent plants for the strip of

94 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

soil near the Iiouse in the shade which is common ahout most of our
homes.

Culture. Before planting the Day Lilies, the ground should be
prepared to a good depth and enriched with manure. They grow best
in moderately rich soil where a good supply of moisture is available.
They will grow either in sunhght or shade, but they grow best in partial
shade, even in the northern exposures, where very few other plants
will grow.

Propagation. The division of the root clumps is the easiest
method of propagating the Day Lilies. Some produce seeds which
grow readily if planted soon after the seeds ripen.

Gaillardia — Blanket Flower

The satisfactory Blanket Flowers deserve a place in all gardens.
They are showy, bloom under adverse conditions and are easy of cul-
ture. The great improvement in colors which has gone on in recent
years is marvelous. There are both annual and perennial species, both
of which have become so varied in their form and colors that the best
test of a perennia' sort is to wait until Spring. If it lives through the
Winter and blooms the next year, it is perennial The perennial sorts
are catalogued as Gaillardia arisiata {grandiflora) . The flowers are
often clear rich yellow or clear wine red, but usually the petals are
broadly margined with yellow and the remainder of the flower is some
shade of crimson. The centers of the flowers are frequently a deep
maroon.

Uses. Gaillardias are especially good for the perennial border
where they start to flower in June and continue after many other flow-
ers are killed by the frost. They are also prized as cut flowers and for
tliis purpose should be cut when the flowers are slightly cup-shaped
before the petals have reflexed. Without apparent harm the flowers
may be kept out of water in carrying them from one place to another.

Culture. All persons who have grown GaiUardias know that
they bloom even during protracted droughts. They prefer the full
sun and a sandy soil. Old plants have a tendency to become "blmd,"
that is, they grow nicely but produce no flowers. Such clumps should
be dug and divided.

Propagation. When raised from seed they do not bloom unless
started very early. They are easily raised, however, the seed ger-
minating in five to eight days.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS

Gentiana — Gentian

TO THE FRINGED GENTIAN
Thou blossom bright with Autumn dew,
And colored with the Heaven's own blue,
That openest, when quiet light
Succeeds the keen and frosty night.

Thou waitest late, and com'st alone,
When woods are bare and birds are flown,
And frosts and shortening days portend
The aged year is near his end.

Then doth thy sweet and quiet eye
Look through its fringes to the sky.
Blue — blue — as if the sky let fall
A flower from its cerulean wall.

— Wm. Cullen Bryant

There are almost as many
Gentians in poems and books
about flowers as there are
real Gentians in the woods.
Two sorts are to be found
by much hunting through
United States. They are
the Closed Gentian (Gen-
tiana Andrewsii) and the
Fringed Gentian (G. crin-
ita). The Closed Gentian
is of interest because it
blooms from September to
November, but the flowers
never open, remaining in
large, bud-like fonn. The
flower stems are \}/2 feet
tall and the purplish blue
flowers are borne in clus-
ters in the axils of the upper
leaves. The plants are
found growing on damp
hillsides and in meadows.

The Fringed Gentian is
more beautiful and less
common. It is the most
modest flower of our woods ^^°"^** °'" ^°"*^ *^*"flowers"^ °^ °'"' ''^°'*'* '^''**

96 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

and hides itself away in the open places. The flowers are bluish
and have a delicate fringe at the margins of the petals. Unlike the
Closed Gentian, they are borne singly upon the apex of the stems.

The Gentianella (G. acaulis) is the blue, stemless Gentian of the
Alps. The flowers are bell-shaped, large and blue. The plants grow but
6 inches tall and bloom in Spring. In Europe this plant is commonly
used as an edging plant.

Culture. The Gentians are difficult to transplant and if seed
is sown, it should be fresh, otherwise it wiU not grow. The Closed
Gentiana may be grown in moist meadows but they should have no
lime in the soil. The Fringed Gentiana is a biennial which is extremely
difficult to grow. If fresh seed is obtained, sow in pots. The Gentian-
ella is the easiest sort to grow, requiring limestone added to the soil.
All sorts prefer partial shade.

Geranium — Crane's-bill, Herb Robert

The plants, usuaUy called Geraniums, are really Pelargoniums and
do not come within the scope of this book. The true Geraniums are
hardy perennials growing 12 inches to 18 inches tall. They range in
color from lilac to rosy-purple. The most commonly cultivated species,
Geranium sanguineum, has purple -crimson flowers producing a profu-
sion of flowers through the Summer. A white variety is frequently
listed. Two wild sorts are worthy of places in the wild garden or moist
rockery, namely: G. Robertianum, the Herb Robert, which has tiny
magenta flowers and deeply cleft leaves. The plants are encountered
frequently in very moist, rocky woods. They are easily distinguished
by their peculiar odor. This is a biennial sort but will self-sow itself
year after year. G. maculatum, the Spotted Crane's-bill, is far the
commoner wild sort. The flowers vary from hght to dark magenta.
Both of these species are very hairy.

Uses. The smaUer plants are excellent for pot culture or to use
as edgings for borders. Many are grown in rockeries, in wliich situa-
tions Herb Robert and the spotted Crane's-bill are especially attrac-
tive. Sometimes the flowers are cut and used in small basket or vase
decorations.

Culture. Geraniums do nicely in moist places. The wild sorts
will not stand the hot sun. Any good garden soil will do. They thrive
best transplanted in the Spring.

Propagation. They are fpropagated by sowing the seed during
the latter part of Summer, and are usuaUy wintered in coldframes.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 97

Geum — Avens

Among our pernicious weeds is one whose seeds are provided with
hooks which catch in our clothing when on a Summer walk through the
woods. This is a Geum. It is a surprise, therefore, to lind several ex-
cellent perennial flowers as its relatives. The common species, Geum
coccineum, or chiloense as it is more properly called, grows from 12 inches
to 18 inches high with hairy leaves, somewhat resembling those of a
Strawberry. The flowers are both double and single and are borne on
branched stems in great profusion. The variety, Mrs. W. J. Bradshaw,
is the best one to grow. It has very large flowers from Ij^ inches to
8 inches across with large, wavy petals of a bright crimson color. The
Geums bloom freely from May through October. G. monianum
{Heldreichii) produces orange flowers through the Summer and grows
h2 inches tall.

Uses. The Geum is a most exceUent flower to use for bouquets.
It wilts readily and when the flowers are cut they should be put in warm
water. They are also good for borders and rockeries.

Culture. Geums will grow in fuU sunUght or partial shade in
any garden soil and thrive very well among rocks.

Propagation. They are produced from seeds and cuttings.

Grasses, Ornamental

This unique group of plants is not nearly so weU known nor are
the many excellent sorts as often seen as their merits deserve. Only
such grasses are here discussed as are hardy, easily grown and will
produce striking efl'ects when properly used. Bamboos and Grasses
are splendid for tropical effects and particularly to be admired for large
beds, for the edging of ponds and streams or for combination in the
perennial border. Plant afl sorts in a rich, moist loam in a place pro-
tected from strong winds.

Propagation. The varieties of grasses with variegated leaves
are usually propagated by division rather than seed because, in most
cases, the variegations are not propagated true. Propagation by divi-
sion is easily done in early Spring. Alerely cut the clumps into pieces
3 inches or 4 inches across. Such divisions when planted a foot apart
will, at the end of the season, increase the apparent size of the clump.

Many of the grasses, however, are propagated from seed sown in
the early Spring. Ornamental grass in its young stages of growth

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

appears to be so small that one has a feeling that it need not be given a
great deal of space. Crowded grasses do not thrive, so that they
should be transplanted when small and given plenty of space to de-
velop.

Arrhenatherum bulbosum variegatum

A dwarf, decorative grass of tufted habit growing only 8 inches
high. The green and white leaves retain their clear color throughout
the season. It is used where a white edging or border is desired.

Arundo Donax — Giant Reed

Tliis is the tallest of the ornamental grasses, sometimes growing
in rich, deep soil to a height of 20 feet. The long, drooping leaves of

a bright green color
are produced from
the base to the top
of the stem, some-
what resembling a
corn plant, though
more graceful. Late
in Summer the plant
produces showy red-
dish brown plumes
over a foot long,
which turn a silvery
gray at maturity. The
Giant Reed is useful
for the centers of
large beds, in the
backgrounds of bor-
ders or as specimens
in the lawn. It re-
fuses to be at home
in stiff, clayey soil,
preferring a deep,
sandy loam and a
sheltered position.
Variegated forms are
obtainable; they have
leaves striped with

Giant Reed or Arundo, one of the tallest grasses.

white This latter sort seldom grows over 12 feet tall and is not
entirely hardy without protection in the colder climates.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 99

Bamboos

The Ramboos form a group of interesting grasses, interesting be-
case of their association with many uses to which they are put by the
Japanese. Few of our outdoor Ramboos, however, grow so that we
can actually use them for fishpoles. They are usually more bushy.
Three principal genera of grasses are known as Ramboos, namely:
Bambusa, Arundinaria and Phyllostachys. Generally speaking it is
wise to protect all of the sorts listed as Ramboos.

The choicest and hardiest sorts include the following:

Arundinaria auricoma. This grass is an excellent purple-stemmed
variety, having green and yellow variegated foliage. It is rather
dwarf, growing only 3 feet tall.

Arundinaria Foriunei. This is the smallest of the common hardy
Ramboos, growing only 18 inches tall and having evergreen foliage,
variegated green and white. Although it lacks the grace of the taller
varieties, it is often used for edging or in rockeries.

Arundinaria japonica (B. Metake). Arrow Ramboo. This hand-
some variety from Japan forms dense masses 8 feet to 10 feet high. The
leaves remain on the plant in good condition well into Midwinter. This
sort is reliable and thrives under trying conditions.

Arundinaria Simonii. This sort is distinct and of vigorous
growth, the branches being grouped in dense clusters. The narrow,
green leaves are occasionally striped with white. It grows 20 feet tall
in China although 15 feet is considered to be a good growth in this
country.

Bambusa palmaia. This is an effective, broad-leaved species form-
ing dense clumps 4 feet high. The bright green leaves are often 15
inches long and 3 inches wide.

Phyllostachys aurea. Golden Ramboo. This graceful Chinese
sort has close jointed canes which are light green when young, but
change to a straw yellow when mature. The plants grow 15 feet tall
and are covered with small branches which bear soft green foliage.

Elymus— Blue Lime Grass

Elymus glaums is an excellent grass of spreading habit, with nar-
row, bluish-green leaves. It makes an earlier start in Spring than most
grasses and grows 3 feet high.

100 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Erianthus — Plume Grass, Hardy Pampas Grass

In habit Erianthus Ravennx resembles the Pampas Grass, but it is
not as ornamental l)ecause the plumes are not as showy. It grows
5 feet to 10 feet tall. In a sunny location, in well-drained soil, this
grass is attractive as a specimen or for use among shrubs.

Eulalia or Miscanthus — Japanese Rush

The plain green and variegated sorts of Eulaha are of great value
in the garden. They grow 5 feet to 7 feet tall. Eulalia japonica has
deep green leaves 2 feet to 3 feet long and over an inch wide. E.
gracillima has long, drooping leaves, narrower than the former sort
and with a stripe of white through the center. E. japonica zebrina,
the Zebra grass, has leaves which are variegated, being marked cross-
wise with broad, yellowish white bands.

Festuca — Blue Fescue

This httle tufted grass, Festuca glauca, has silvery-blue foliage and
grows only 10 inches tall. The plants are evergreen, but it is advisable
to cut the old leaves from the plants early in the Spring before the
new crop is produced. It is especially recommended for edging in the
perennial border and in the rock garden.

Gynerium or Cortaderia — Pampas Grass

"What is there growing in the garden or wild more nobly distinct
and beautiful than the great silvery plumes of this plant waving in the
autumnal gusts — the burial plumes as it were, of our Summer too early
dead," writes Robinson in "Subtropical Gardening." LInfortunately,
the plants are rather tender and require mulching in Winter, or they
may be taken up and wintered in a cool cellar. The plumes are the
handsomest, most graceful of all grasses and the needed care is worth
the trouble.

Pennisetum — Fountain Grass

Most of the Fountain Grasses are annuals, but Pennisetum ja-
ponicum is a perennial, grows 3 feet to 4 feet tall, and has fox tail-hke
plumes of rich mahogany tipped with white.

NOTEWOR'III^ PERENNIALS 101

Phalaris — Ribbon Grass, Gardener's Garter

This grass is a favorite of old gardens where it spreads widely.
The leaves of Phalaris arundinacea picla are attractively striped with
pure white. It is useful as a border for the taller perennial grasses
because it grows 2 feet tall. It thrives especially well in wet soil and
may be used on the margins of ponds. In soil too rich it loses its
vareisration.

Uniola — Spike Grass

The Spike Grass, Uniola latifolia, has arching leaves an inch wide,
and broad, flat spikelets produced in loose drooping clusters. It grows
3 feet tall.

Gypsophila — Baby's Breath, Chalk Plant, Gauze
Flower, Fairies' Breath

The Gypsophila is one of the daintiest of the old-fashioned flowers
with a misty grace which is not found in other flowers. The flowers
themselves are tiny, white or blush-white and the plants are covered
with myriads of these blossoms all during the Summer. The plant
grows from 2 feet to 3 feet tall; the fohage is grass-hke, the stems are
branched minutely and are wiry, and the general appearance is filmy,
gauzy, or misty white. Gypsophila paniculata has single flowers,
while G. p. flore-pleno has larger, double, rosette-like flowers and is
more satisfactory. G. aciitifolia is frequently cultivated, difl'ering
from G. paniculata in its greener and narrower leaves. G. cerastoides
and G. repens monslrosa are trailing species blooming in June and
July; the former has pinkish tinged flowers.

Uses. The Baby's Breath is an excellent cut flower, especially
when combined in bouquets or decorations with other flowers which
do not have much foliage. The flowers, especially of the double form,
can be cut and dried and used during the Winter months. The plants
themselves are useful in the hardy border, or as pot plants. The
trailing form is useful for edging and for rock gardens.

Culture. Gypsophilas endure open, dry places and rather poor
soil. The name Gypsophila (Gypsum-loving) seems to indicate its
preference for limestone soils. Some gardeners claim tha t cutting the
plants back after blooming is detrimental to them.

102 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Propagation. Tliey may bo propagated from seeds or cuttings
taken either in the Fall or Spring. The double sorts should be grafted
on the roots of the single flowering ones, as about 30 per cent of the
seedlings come double from seed. The plants are divided most fre-
quently.

Heather — Heath

The American finds it almost unholy to write of Heather because
his remarks may be read by a Scotchman who might wonder by what
right an American obtained permission to discuss these bonny plants.
There are a number of sorts of Heathers which may be grown in north-
ern United States, but many of the European sorts are not hardy
enough. Lovers of Heather might easily grow it, if they but knew the
sorts to grow. The following sorts are seen thriving in our country:

Calluna vulgaris, the true Scotch Heather, has tiny purple flowers
and grows 12 inches to 18 inches tall. It blooms late in August and
remains in bloom until Fall. There is also a white variety. C. crispa
is an excellent sort with pinkish lavender flowers.

Erica carnea has pink flowers and is one of the most popular sorts
in America. The plants grow 6 inches tall and bloom in April or May.

Erica stricta, the Corsican Heath, seldom attains a height of 2
feet and has stiff, upright branches. The flowers are rosy purple
appearing in August.

Menziesia polifolia, the Irish Heath, has small, oval, dark green
leaves and long spikes of large, drooping, white or bright rose bells.
It blooms from July to September. The plants attain a height of
6 inches.

Bruckenthalia spiculifolia is found listed in some catalogs. It
grows 5 inches to 8 inches tall, has heath-like, Hght pmk flowers pro-
duced in early June.

Uses. Besides their sentiment and interest, the Heaths are ex-
tremely dainty for use in the border or rock garden. They are espe-
ciaUy at home as an undergrowth for Rhododendron beds. They may
be cut, and when placed in vases, wiU last for weeks.

Culture. The various Heaths prefer a soil compounded of peat
or leafmold. They prefer plenty of moisture in Summer but the soil
must be perfectly drained. Our weather conditions are not ideal, due
to our hot, dry Summers, but Mr. Wm. Anderson (Lancaster, Mass.)
writing in The Gardener's Chronicle of America, says:

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS

103

"A situation should be selected where protection is afforded from
sweeping winds in February and March. We have some Heather planted
on a hillside in the full sun, and exposed to sweeping northwest winds.
The tops were killed back some last Winter, but started up again in early
Spring and was in full bloom September 6. These plants have been grow-
ing in their present location for four years. For the first two years the
ground was kept cultivated between the plants, but the growth became
so thick that this was discontinued, and since then, thousands of seedlings
are beginning to appear under and between the older plants. In another
spot a planting was put in two years later, and in a more sheltered location,
and has come through the last two severe Winters in good condition."

Propagation. The propagation of the Heathers is rather diffi-
cult for the amateur. It is best to purchase plants from the dealer.

Helenium — Sneezeweed, Helen's Flower

The Heleniums are tall growing autumnal plants which are closely
related to the Sunflower. The blooming period is from June to the end
of September and during this time the plants are covered with flowers

Helen's Flower or Helenium. The rich maroon varieties are superb for late
Summer or Fall garden effects.

104 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

of mahogany-crimson, coppery-bronze, lemon-yellow, and light and
deep rich yellows. The flowers are flat and are borne in large heads
or clusters. They grow from 1 foot to 6 feet high.

Helenium autumnale, Riverton Gem, grows from 23/2 f^^l to 3 feet
high and has flowers of an old gold color, which changes to a blood-red
wallflower color when mature. Riverton Beauty grows from 5 feet
to 6 feet taU. Its flowers are a rich lemon yellow^ with a purplish-black
cone center. Rubrum bears large, loose heads of terra cotta or mahog-
any-crimson flowers which do not change as the blooms mature.
Superbum has deep, golden yeUow flowers while Striatum has yeUow
flowers striped with crimson. AU the above varieties bloom from
August through September.

H. Hoopesii, a clear, rich yellow sort with slightly drooping rays,
blooms early in June and grows only 2 feet tafl.

FoUowing the last named species in season of bloom is H. pumilum,
another yellow sort, usually growing about 18 inches tall and bear-
ing a profusion of flowers through the Summer months.

Uses. Heleniums are a very useful as well as popular group of
plants for the garden, for their masses of golden-hued colors blend
with the autumnal colors and produce efi'ects which are hard to
achieve in any other group. Because of their tall growth, Heleniums
are used to form the body and main background of large borders and
are very attractive when planted among shrubbery. The flowers are
very useful for cutting and the blooms remain fresh for a long time
when placed in water. The bushes are always covered with large
quantities of bloom which remain on the plant in good condition for
some time. The cut flowers are useful for interior decoration.

Culture. Heleniums are vigorous growing plants which thrive
in any soil and even under adverse conditions. They should be trans-
planted frequently because they spread rapidly.

Propagation. These plants are propagated by seeds sown in
July, by division of the roots either in early Spring or Fall, and by
cuttings taken in Spring.

Helianthus — Perennial Sunflower

These bold perennials are so diverse in their habits that it is
hoped that the reader will not come to them with prejudice because
some of its relatives are coarse and grasping in nature. Some of the

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS

10 •

sorts are actually dainty.
All the sorts are tones of
golden yellow and they
are usually tall growers.
Of the many sorts we shall
mention a few of the best.

Helianthus Maximilianii
is perhaps the tallest one,
growing 8 feet and some-
times more if the con-
ditions are favorable. It is
the last one to bloom,
flowering as it does in
October. Its long stalks
are full of small golden
yellow flowers.

H. orgyalis is sometimes
called the Graceful Sun-
flower because of its nar-
row fohage which droops.
It has single, lemon-yellow
flowers and is another
very tall grower.

H. mollis, or the Hairy
Sunflower, grows 4 feet

tall and has grayish, downy, green leaves, dark stems and pale yellow
flowers with dark centers. H. scaherrimus (Woolly Dod) blooms in Sep-
tember and has deep yellow flowers with maroon centers. H. decape-
talus or H. muUiflorus is one of the most profuse bloomers and, when
planted where it may be given a lot of room to spread, is one of the good
species, but its powers of usurping garden space eliminates it from
the more refined borders. The Autumn Glory {H. angustifolius)
has created some comment during the last year. The writer has
not seen it, but has heard that it is one of the most graceful small-
flowered sorts, that it makes a splendid addition to the small number
of plants which bloom after frost .

Uses. These are splendid to plant in the back rows of the bor-
der, in clumps on the lawn among shrubbery, or to naturahze in the
wild flower gardens or along woodland paths. They combine attrac-
tively with hardy Asters. The flowers are cut and used for all kinds
Qf decorative purposes.

Maximilian'

Sunflower, one of the choicest
late flowers of Fall.

106 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Culture. Because they grow so tall, they should be planted in
places where the soil is not only rich, for they are great feeders, but also
very deep. The soil should be manured weU every season, because the
roots exhaust the soil of food materials very readily. They prefer
open, sunny places to partially shady ones, although they like a moist
soil. The plants require almost yearly transplantings.

Propagation Helianthus is readily propagated from cuttings
or division of the root stocks.

Heliopsis — Orange Sunflower

The Hehopsis is not grown to a great extent because so many more
attractive flowers are to be found among the varieties of Hehanthus.
This Orange Sunflower is very similar, growing from 2 feet to 3 feet high,
with flowers varying in colors from orange to a deep golden yellow. The
flowers are either single, like a Daisy, or double, like a Zinnia, and
measure 23/^ inches or 3 inches across. Heliopsis Pitcher iana which
grows 2 feet to 3 feet is a good variety to grow. It has single flowers of
a very thick texture and of a deep golden yellow color. It begins
blooming in June and lasts through September and early October.
Excelsa is an intense golden sort which does not turn brown in the
center.

Uses. The Orange Sunflowers have long, stiff" stems which make
them valuable for cuttmg. The blooms last a long time, both on the
plant or in water. The plants themselves are suited for borders or dry
spots.

Culture. They are of easy culture, preferring open, sunny situ-
ations.

Propagation. They are propagated by seeds, cuttings and divi-
sion of the root stocks.

Hemerocallis — Day Lily

During the early Summer months the roadsides, railroad tracks and
banks of streams are brightened immensely when the Orange Day
LiUes come into bloom. They grow so freely and in so many out of the
way places that many people have come to consider them as native
plants, but they are wild in Japan and China. This Orange Day Lily

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS

107

^^■--i^-j^^-:^'

irttW^^TWl

'- '"""'if '. t
••Vt. -'^S-.

Le/^ Lemon Lily, with charming fragrance and grace; right, Kansas Gay Feather
or Liatris, an unusual flower of Summer.

(Hemerocallis fulva) has a gaudy orange yellow color. The plants
grow from 3 feet to 5 feet high, have narrow, drooping, grass-like
leaves which are very graceful, and the trumpet-shaped flowers are
produced on spikes of from six to twelve blooms. Each flower lasts
only a very short time, hut new ones bloom every day. The blooming
period extends from early June through July for all the varieties.
The Lemon Day Lily (H. flava) has clear lemon or canary-yellow col-
ored flowers and is the better one of the two to grow in the gardens.
It is only 2 feet or 3 feet high and is deh'ghtfully fragrant. H. Mid-
dendoj'ffii is a dwarf sort with rich, golden yellow flowers. H.
Dumoriieri begins blooming in May and has very showy flowers of
a bronze yeUow on the outside and a rich yeUow inside of the petals.
There are many new hybrids of the Day Lilies, many of which are
superior in color and produce more blooms to the spike. H. Florhami
has deep, golden yeUow blooms with Indian-yeUow markings. The
petals are beautifully frilled. H. citrina has pale lemon-yellow flow-
ers and is a tall grower. H. Kwanso is a double form of the Orange
Day Lily. H. Thunbergii, a species from Japan, may be described
as a late-blooming Lemon Lily.

108 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Uses. Since they grow and bloom so freely, their uses are many.
About the most attractive way of growing them is to let them naturalize
themselves along woodland paths, along streams or moist banks.
They are excellent for the border or to plant among shrubbery. The
flowers are used for cutting purposes.

Culture. The Day Lihes are easy to grow, thriving equally well
in full sunlight as in partial shade. In fact they can be planted any-
where and they will take care of themselves. It is best to divide the
clumps every two years, although they are often left for four or five
years. They do not need any protection during the Winter.

Propagation. They are easily propagated by division of the
root stocks.

Herbs

The home gardener can derive a genuine pleasure in growing
herbs when they supply so many of one's wants. This is especially
true of a housewife who has her own kitchen garden.

Culinary Herbs

Borage {Borago officinalis). The large leaves have a fragrant odor
and add greatly when served with Lettuce in salads. The leaves are
sometimes boiled Hke Spinach. The flowers are used in cool drinks
and they also attract the bees.

Burnet {Sanguisorha canadensis). The leaves are used in cool
drinks and in flavoring soups and salads.

Difl {Anethum graveolens). The seeds have a pungent odor. Used
for flavoring vinegar to make "difl pickles."

Fennel, Florence {Fceniculum duke). The leaf-stalks at the base
of the stem are very large. These are fine in salads, the sweet flavor
somewhat resembling that of Celery.

Fennel, Sweet {Foeniculum vulgare). The leaves are beautiful for
garnishes; are also boiled in fish sauces.

Lavender (Lavandula vera). The leaves and flowers have a de-
lightful perfume and a small bag of the dried flowers gives the flnen a
delicate perfume. Oils are also made from the true lavender.

Marjoram, Sweet [Origanum Majorana) The leaves and shoots
are used for seasoning and are also dried for Winter use.

Mint {Mentha piperita). The leaves and stems are used for flavor-
ing and for the distiUation of essence of peppermint.

NcrjEWORTHY PERENNIALS 109

Sage, Goininon {Salvia ojjicinalis). '\\w Icavos and tups arc used
eommonly in the seasoning of the stuffing for fowls and for dressings.

Tarragon, True {Artemisia Dracunciilus) . The leaves, either fresh
or dried, are used for flavoring soups, pickles and vinegar. The finely
chopped fresh leaves add greatly to salads.

Thyme {Thymus vulgaris). The leaves are used either fresh or
dried for flavorings. This is also a good edging plant for the garden.

Medicinal Herbs

Boneset {Eupalorium perfoliatum). Tea made from the Boneset
leaves is used for fever.

Catnip {Nepeta Caiaria). It is a well established fact that cats
delight in rolhng among the leaves. The Catnip is said to be a good
bee pasture.

Feverfew {Chrysanthemum Parthenium). This makes a good blood
tonic.

Horehound {Marruhium vulgare). The leaves are used as a
remedy for colds, for dyspepsia, and also for their tonic effect.

Hyssop {Hyssopus ojficinalis). The leaves and tops are used for
Hyssop tea. This plant is also grown as a pot plant.

Rosemary {Rosmarinus ojjicinalis). Rosemary tea gives rehef to
headaches.

Tansy {Tanacetum vulgare). Tansy tea is used against worms and
is generally used in bitters.

Wormwood {Artemisia vulgaris). This is beneficial to poultry
and should therefore be planted in every poultry yard.

Culture. All the herbs require a rather rich garden soil. If
they are being grown for their seeds, the branches should be cut when
the seed is ripe before it has a chance to fall away and scatter. When
dried properly the seed should be stored. The stems and leaves, if they
are to be dried, should be cut on a bright day when the leaves have
matured; then tied in small bundles, dried quickly in the shade, and
hung in paper bags in the attic until they are needed. They can also
be kept in mason jars or tight fitting boxes. The roots should be
washed thoroughly before drying. All the herbs except Lavender,
Rosemary, Thyme, Sage and Wormwood, which are of a shrubby
nature, should be cut back to a few inches from the ground and covered
with straw or leaves during the Winter. These few plants should be
cut to within 6 inches of the ground. All herbs need Winter protection.

Propagation. Most herbs are easily raised from seed. Tarragon
is propagated by division of the roots. The seed should be sown

110 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

where the plants are to remain, and then the small plants can be
thinned out later. It is best to plant them on a dull day and water
them carefully.

Hesperis — Sweet Rocket, Damask Violet

Sweet Rocket is one of our most fragrant flowers which grows al-
most wild, as it has escaped from the gardens. Hesperis matronalis
has white, flesh or lavender-colored flowers which grow in large clusters.
The plants are about 3 feet high and are bushy. AU of the flowers are
very sweet scented and this is especially notic ed in the evening. They
bloom from June through September.

Uses. They are used in the border where they bloom earher than
Phlox, which they somewhat resemble. The flowers are used for
cutting. The Magenta colored sorts are trying to combine with other
flowers, so that the white variety is the one to grow.

Culture. They thrive in either sun or partial shade in any good
garden soil. Closely related to the Cabbage, they are sometimes
affected with the Cabbage worm, in which case, they should be sprayed
with arsenate of lead.

Propagation. They are grown from seeds and readily self-sow.
Heuchera — Fairy Flowers, Alum Root, Coral Bells

Heucheras are among the most desirable of the smaller growing
plants. There are many varieties worth growing. Of these, Heuchera
sanguinea is most often seen. The plants are compact, bushy and grow
in tufts, the flower stems growing Ij^ feet or 2 feet high. The ever-
green leaves look like those of a Geranium. From a mass of ornamental
fohage rise graceful spikes covered with pendent flowers which assume
the size of Lily of the VaUey bells, of a bright coral-crunson color. It
blooms about the middle of the Summer. Catalogs list white, creamy,
purple and rose-colored varieties. H. americana, resembling the Foam
Flowers and the Mitreworts, is a native of our woods.

Uses. Small clumps of Heucheras are very attractive when
planted by themselves among the shrubbery where their dainty beUs
wiU not be outshone by other gay flowers. The fohage is tinted with
various maroon markings during the Winter and this makes the plants
valuable for the borders. The leaves are also used in vases as accom-

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS

111

Left, the giant flowers of the Mallows or Hibicus, the largest flowers of the gar-
den; right, Japanese Irises, the gorgeous flowers of which rival the other flowers

of June.

paniments to other flowers, and the sprays of hloom make excellent
cut flowers. Heucheras are perhaps most at home when planted
in the rockery where they become robust and the foliage completely
covers the rocks.

Culture. Moist, rich loam is the best soil in which to grow them.
Although the plants grow for a long time in one place, the larger plants
tend to grow weak very soon. These should be removed and planted
elsewhere about every two years. They refuse to thrive in a stiff*,
clayey soil.

Propagation. The plants are propagated by division in October,
or seeds, which should be sown in March if a greenhouse is available.
The seedhngs are tiny and need not be transplanted until they attain
some size.

Hibiscus — Marsh Mallow, Swamp Rose Mallow,
Mallow Marvels

The perennial Mallows bear some of the largest flowers of any of
our perennials and present a gorgeous sight when in bloom. They
grow from 3 feet to 8 feet tall and the branches spread out over a great

11^ A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

area. The leaves are large and grayish green in eolor. The llowers
resemble a single Hollyhoek bloom, only they are nmch larger, some
measuring from 0 inches to 10 inches or 12 inches across. The colors
range from white with crimson centers to deep crimson, but most of the
colors are soft, causing them to blend with other flowering plants. The
plants begin blooming in July, but are at their best during August and
September. Altogether these large Mallows present quite a tropical
aspect to any planting The Swamp Rose Mallow (Hibiscus Mos-
cheutos) grows 4 feet or 5 feet high, and has flowers 6 inches across of a
clear rose color with a large dark eye in the center. This is a very
showy plant. The Crimson-eye Rose Mallow (//. oculiroseus) has
large, pure white flowers with a deep crimson eye. The flowers are
extremely large and appear velvety. The Mallow Marvels comprise
a group of especially large flowering sorts.

Uses. MaUows are hardy and adapt themselves readily to almost
any planting. \A'hen grouped in masses the large plants present an
extraordinary picture. They may be planted either among slirubs or
used as a substitute for them. The plants are too large for the ordinary
garden border because they require much room, but they can be used
in large beds of mixed flowers.

Culture. Mallows prefer a moist soil although they will do
equally well in dry soil, sun or partial shade The plants die down to
the ground during Winter and are about the last plants to show green
shoots in the Spring They grow very rapidly and do not require
much care. A hght mulching of the plants is good for Winter.

Propagation. They are propagated from seed which will pro-
duce blooms the first year if the seeds are sown early enough. The
roots are easily divided and one can always be sure that the plants will
come true to form if this method is used.

Hollyhock— Althaea

A constant, old-fashioned garden favorite ! Hollyhocks have been
universally admired for hundreds of years They are stately, majes-
tic, towering plants that add beauty wherever they are grown. What
other plant has so stately a habit or so many clear, lovely colors.:^ In
single plants or in masses against wafls or buildings, in groups at the
back or rear of the perennial border, interspersed with low shrubbery
or in bold masses along drives or walks, they are ahke efl'ective Many
fine plants wiU give their fuUest eff'ects the first year, so they are
planted to advantage in the newly made garden when the trees and
shrubs are low and the general eff'ect is too bare of color and foliage.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS

lis

There are sin^'les and doubles. The doubles are popular, but the sin^des
are always admired because of their simple beauty and individuahty.
A group of well grown Hollyhocks in bloom is worth going to see. It
is really the color that we look for, because the leaves are large, coarse
and grow mostly in clumps at the base of the plant. The long spikes
of flowers grow from .5 feet to 8 feet high and there are usually from
live to nine blossoms in bloom on each weU grown stalk. The average
size is about 2 inches or 3 inches across, but o-inch blooms can be had
if good attention is given. The colors range from white to almost
black and include shades of pink, flesh, rose-pink, salmon-rose, golden
yellow, canary-yeUow, dark red, purple-crimson, dark maroon, white
and combinations of practically all these colors with either white centers
or white margins. The blooming period is from late June through
September. Fringed petaled sorts are catalogued as Allegheny Holly-
hocks and are exquisite. There are also annual sorts which may be
depended upon to bloom the same year they are sown.

Uses. Hollyhocks at the present time have a great landscape
value to hide unsightly places, to work in the border, or among the

Tall Hollyhocks to greet us through the open window.

114

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

trees and shrubs. They are also used for cut flowers, but wilt very
rapidly.

Culture. They require a deeply dug, well-drained soil made up
of equal portions of good loam and leafmold. Well decayed manure is
good also to mix in the soil. They should be planted in a warm place
and given plenty of water during dry weather.

Propagation. As the seeds ripen in August they should be sown
in light soil and the seedhngs grown in coldframes during the Winter.
The ground should be well prepared and the plants put in just as early
as the ground can be worked. Hollyhocks self-sow very rapidly.

Diseases. Hollyhocks, where grown for a number of years in
the same place, are troubled with a rust. It causes little trouble,
however, among vigorous young plants. A mixture of lime and sul-
phur blown under the leaves wiU prevent any serious outbreak.
Bordeaux mixture is also effective. Badly infested plants should be
dug and burned. Keep down the growth of the Mallow-like weeds.
Much of the trouble with the rust is eliminated if the seed is sown
as advised in August instead of Spring.

Left, Coral Bells or Heuchera, slender spikes of bright bells for the border or
rockery; right, Blue Flax or Linum, airy, dancing, blue flowers.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS

115

Hypericum — St.

John's Wort,
Gold Flower

Aaron's Beard,

Literally speaking, these flowers either seem to be made of gold
or to be holding the golden rays of sunlight within their small petaled
cups. Real, genuine pleas-
ure is derived by growing
this plant. The St. John's
Wort {Hypericum Moseri-
anum) has large, deep,
ghstening, golden yellow
blossoms, greatly resem-
bling a single Rose, filled
with numerous yellow sta-
mens and red anthers.
These flowers are borne
very freely at the ends of
long, graceful, reddish
branches which are cov-
ered with oval, shining,
smooth, deep green leaves.
This plant grows from iH
feet to 2 feet tall and the
slender, spreading branch-
es droop at the ends. The
flowers are in bloom from
August through October.
Aaron's Beard (//. caly-
cinum) is a lower growing
plant with golden yeUow
flowers.

Uses. The Hypericums are especially good to use as borders for
shrubs or the perennial beds of flowers, or to use in rock gardens.
The plants are neat growing for pot culture. The flowers are em-
ployed in decorations.

Culture. The plants do best in a light, warm, sandy soil. The
flowers last longer if they are shaded slightly. AU of the Hypericums
are shrubby in nature, the woody growth and some of the leaves re-
maining on during the Winter months. New growth starts from the
base of the plant.

Propagation. They are propagated from seeds, cuttings or
division of the roots.

St. John's Wort, the large yellow flowers of

which, filled with threads of gold, are sure to

be enjoyed.

116 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Iberis — Candytuft

Candytuft, a low growing evergreen shrub, is in reality one of the
best flowers in its class. It grows from 9 inches to 12 inches high and
spreads out making low mats which are covered with flat, dense clus-
ters of the purest of white flowers. This perennial Candytuft {Iberis
sempervirens) comes into bloom the last part of April and lasts through
June. /. gibraltarica is the largest of the Candytufts, but is somewhat
more straggly in growth. It is very showy because the clusters of white
flowers are deeply tinted rose lavender. The foKage of Candytuft is
evergreen, which makes the plant attractive throughout the year.
This is the larger and showier of the two species, but is not as hardy .

Uses. Candytuft, besides being one of the best white flowers for
cutting, is also invaluable to use in rock gardens, to cover bare spots,
to use in beds. Candytuft, with its evergreen foliage, is one of the
best plants grown for edging purposes. Some of the varieties are fra-
grant, which makes them more useful as cut flowers. The plants are
used in hanging baskets, porch boxes and are grown as pot plants.

Culture. The plants form a dense mat and when once estab-
lished should not be moved. They do best in the sunshine. A
moderately rich soil and plenty of water are the most important re-
quirements. If the true /. gibraltarica is grown, it will need careful
protection in the northern states.

Propagation. Those plants grown from seed, are usually strag-
gly the first year. They are easy to raise from seed, which germ-
inate in two weeks, but the best plants are obtained from cuttings
which root easily. Cuttings should be made in September and win-
tered over in a coldframe where they can be kept moist.

Iris — Flag

It is a peculiarity of an Iris lover that he does not like to have an
Iris called a Flag, although most persons call these flowers by that
name. With the advent of new varieties the Iris is gaining in popu-
larity from year to year. A national society honors this flower and
many cities have Iris clubs. The exquisite colors and the unrivaled
form have attracted many flower lovers. A collection of the varieties
is a veritable rainbow of soft colors.

Bearded, or German Iris. The most cultivated group of Irises
are the bearded sorts, all of which have thick, fleshy, underground

NOTEWORJ'HY PERENNIALS 117

stems rendering their increase most easily accomplished. They are
remarkably well adapted to different situations. They do well in hot,
dry, sunny places as well as the cooler and damper spots. In the shade
they are not at their best. They require frequent transplanting, as the
clumps soon become too thick.

Japamese Iris. Gorgeously colored and giant ni size the Japanese
Iris (/. Ispviqala) will become more popular in the future, for now the
Japanese names have been translated and the flower buyer may be sure
of the sort he buys from the nurseryman. Unlike most Bearded Irises,
the Japanese Iris is a flat bloom, the leaves are narrower and the
rhizomes are smaller and more compact. They dehght in water when
in bloom but not at other times during the year,

Siberian Iris. For themarginsof pools, where the soil is a trifle too
damp for other flowers, the Siberian Iris (/. sihirica) thrives. It will
not succeed with its roots in water, however. The flowers are rich
purple, light lavender, blue or white, and hke the Japanese Iris, these
flowers are without the prominent beard found in the Bearded Iris.

Water Iris, There are two common sorts of Iris which may be
planted directly in the water; namely, the European Wild Flag (/.
pseudacorus) and the Blue Flag (/. versicolor). The European Wild
Flag has large, yellow flowers, the petals of which are drooping. The
flowers appear among the luxuriant leaves. The Blue Flag is a famihar
flower to most Americans, for what boy or girl has not gotten wet feet
gathering it ? Both of these sorts will thrive in ordinary garden soil
without a great (juantity of water.

Dwarf Iris. In April, during favorable early Springs, we are
dehghted with the various dwarf Irises, Growing about 6 inches tall
they supplement the Spring bulbs, EspeciaUy charming are the purple
dwarf sorts when planted in front of Emperor Narcissus, /, pumila
is the dwarf bearded species; /. verna and /, cristata are beardless sorts.
The latter sort is very tiny and has very slender creeping rhizomes.
Being sensitive to too much moisture, it grows very well when planted
upon little mounds of soil or in perfectly drained spots.

Intermediate Iris. Hybridists have crossed the tall Bearded
Iris with the dwarf bearded sorts to produce a group intermediate in
season and height between the two parents. '

Uses. The use of Iris has been suggested in the foregoing para-
graphs. It is an excellent border subject and for home use the flowers
are attractively arranged in our rooms. There are wet soil sorts, tall
varieties, very early kinds and all types of bloom to attract each of us.

118 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Culture. The simple, let-them-alone, culture of the Iris is grati-
fying to the home owner who is not a careful gardener. They do not
like water upon their crowns in Winter, except where noted. The
bearded sorts are said to Uke lime; the Japanese Iris does not prefer a
limestone soil.

Propagation. Merely cut up the old clumips to propagate them.
Each piece will grow, even if allowed to He about the garden for a week
without planting. The Bearded sorts increase rapidly and should be
divided every three years.

Lavandula — Lavender

Sweet Lavender is one of the well-beloved, fragrant plants of the
old-fashioned garden. It was a favorite because of its deUcate odor.
Lavender {Lavandula vera) grows from 1/^ feet to 3 feet high, has
downy, silvery gray foliage and long spikes of blue lavender flowers.
It blooms from July through September and produces flowers very
freely. There are two dwarf er varieties: L. nana compada with large
blue flowers, and the Munstead Lavender with dark blue flowers, both
of which grow 12 inches high and bloom several weeks earlier than the
type. L. spica, the common Lavender, is dwarf er and has light colored
flowers.

Uses. Many persons make small sachet bags to put among Hnens
by drying the leaves and flowers in the Summertime. Because of the
gray foUage, Lavender is used to great advantage in borders. It is
also grown for low hedges, or on dry banks and in the rock garden.
The flowers are good for cutting.

Culture. Lavender requires a sunny situation and hght soil.
Slight protection during the Winter months is also needed.

Propagation. Young plants are easily started from seeds sown
early in the Spring. They should not be sown too deeply, and after
the plants appear, they should be kept shaded and moist until real
strong.

Liatris — Blazing Star, Kansas Gay Feather,
Button Snake Root, Devil's Bit

Liatris is a rather odd plant and merits a much more general use
because it is very desirable and attractive. The Kansas Gay Feather

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 119

{Liatris pycnoslachya) is the one most commonly grown and is one of
the choicest ones to grow. It grows in long spikes, 4 feet to 5 feet tall,
which are densely covered with slender, grass-Uke leaves of a light
green. The small flowers are a light rosy-pm'ple, a color which does
not harmonize readily with all other colors. A pecuhar habit of the
Liatris is that the succession of bloom is from the top downward, rather
than from the lowest blooms up to the highest as in all other spike
flowers. They bloom in August and September. The Rutton Snake
Root (L. spicata) and L. scariosa are two other fine species, both pro-
ducing deep violet-purple spikes of flowers but not growing so taU as
the Gay Feather. There are also Hghter shades of pin'ple and white
varieties. There is hardly any perennial which will attract as much
attention as does the Liatris because it is so different and unusual.

Uses. Liatris is a splendid border plant to use at the back of
the border, but the color is one which goes with few other flowers and
should be subdued with white flowers. The plants have great attrac-
tion for butterflies and bees.

Culture. Liatrises wiU thrive in places where scarcely anything
else wiU grow. They wiU grow in any soil or shade, but prefer a moist
soil and partial shade.

Propagation. They are propagated from seed sown in the
Autumn, or by division of the tuberous roots.

Linum — Perennial Flax, Golden Flax

Flax is a lovely, airy plant with flowers of yeUow, blue and white.
The general height is from 12 inches to 18 inches. The foliage and
flowers are very deHcate and graceful and present the appearance of a
smafl, feathery bush. Golden Flax {Linum flavum) has transparent,
deep, golden yeUow flowers. Linum perenne is the tallest one of the
Flax plants and has rather small flowers of a pearly blue. L. p. album
is the white flowered variety. The flowers are borne in great numbers
all during the blooming season which lasts from May through Sep-
tember. They have the capricious habit of blooming every other day.

Uses. Flax, especiaUy the yeUow flowered one, is very attractive
to combine in plantings of Delphiniums, for both are in bloom at the
same time. Flax is a dainty flower for any border because the plants
bloom through such a long season. Some of the smaUer plants are
grown in pots and in the rock garden. The evergreen leaves and
profusion of bloom off'er further reasons for growing the Rlue Flax.

VH)

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNL\LS

Culture. Flax is very easy of culture, growing readily in any
good garden soil in full sunlight.

Propagation. It is propagated by seeds and division of the
plants.

Lobelia

Natives of our woods, in bosky places we find two exquisite wild
Lobelias, the Cardinal Flower, Lobelia cardinalis, and the Great
Lobeha, L. syphilitica, a blue sort. Both sorts vary greatly in height,
some growing 3 feet or 4 feet tall, other plants being hardly a foot tall.
Some of the European catalogs list sorts of the Cardinal Flower which
have bronze colored leaves, but these sorts are not seen in America.
They bloom from July to September.

Uses. They are at home in damp spots of the gardens, and along
the waterside. The Great Lobelia prefers wetter places than the
Cardinal Flower. When grown in dry places, they suffer from drought;
they often thrive in the ordinary garden soil, but are not as tall as in

Left, Lupines, the taU spires of blue, purple, white or pink flowers making
points of interest in the border; rif/ht. Blue Lobelia, one of the charming blue

natives.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 121

tlie wild places adapted to their cultuie. The Great Lobelia thrives in
partial shade or sun but the Cardinal Flower is usually found in partial
shade.

Propagation. They grow readily from seed which is usually
sown in the Fall, in which case the plants are wintered in a coldframe.

Lupinus — Lupine

If one is looking for a plant a little out of the ordinary, surely the
stately Lupines will fill this need, for they are among the most beautiful
perennials grown. Lupinus polyphyllus is the most popular species.
It grows from '-2 feet to 5 feet in height and has beautiful, long spikes of
pea-shaped or butterfly-hke flowers covering at least 12 inches on stems
8 feet or more high. The flowers are a clear, azure-blue, white or pink,
with soft green leaves divided into small, flnger-like leaflets, eight to
sixteen in number. L.p. Moerheimii is perhaps the handsomest variety
with its bright pink, rose and white flowers. The flowering spikes are
produced very freely, and a border or mass of these plants when once
seen in bloom, present such a showy yet beautiful picture that it is not
easily forgotten. The plants tend to spread out while growing. Healthy
plants are fairly covered witli the spikes which bloom throughout May
and June.

Uses. The best efl'ect is gained by planting Lupines in masses
in the border or on the banks of ponds or streams where the tall growing
spikes cast a stately reflection in the water. Lupines naturalize well
in woodlands and partially shaded corners. The tall spikes are hand-
some for cutting.

Culture. Lupines, when once established, are very easy of
culture, and are seldom attacked by insects. They grow in any soil
which does not contain lime. The roots are large and long and readily
exhaust the soil of its food materials, so each year the ground should
be enriched with plenty of stable manure. It is best to grow them in
moist situations, but if this is not possible they should be watered well
during dry weather. Lupines dislike to be moved so they should be
planted and left alone. If the flowering stalks are cut down, the
plants may bloom the second time in September.

Propagation. Lupines are easily raised from seed and the
plants self-sow if the soil is not too dry. The seeds should not be
covered deeply when planted and can be sown at any time. The
plants can be divided or cuttings can be made by using the rather
hardened wood, or side shoots. This should be done in the Spring.

122 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Lychnis — Rose Campion, Mullein Pink, Flower of

Jove, Double Ragged Robin, Cuckoo Flower,

Corn Cockle, Jerusalem Cross, Maltese Cross,

Scarlet Lightning, German Catchfly

For the different parts of one's garden there are many good varie-
ties of Lychnis. Two of these are known as Agrostemma. Double
Ragged Robin and Cuckoo Flower are both common names of Agros-
temma, Lynchis Flos-cucuU. This plapt, with narrow, grass-hke,
grayish foliage, grows from 12 inches to 18 inches high, forming a tuft,
and producing many small, delicate, tassel-like flowers in short sprays
of rose or soft pink, which are very attractive to the bees of the neigh-
borhood. Ragged Robin is in bloom continuously from May through
August. The Mullein Pink, Dusty Miller or Rose Campion (L. or A.
coronaria) is a very striking plant. The stems and leaves are a downy,
silvery gray and the Pink-like flowers are a cerise scarlet. It grows
2 feet or 23^ feet taU and is in bloom during July and August.

The Maltese Cross, Jerusalem Cross or Scarlet Lightning (L.
chalcedonica) is a tall, loose growing plant with hairy stems and leaves.
The foliage is similar to that of Sweet Wilham and from each plant
several straight, strong flower stems rise to a height of 2 feet or 3 feet
and have immense heads of vermilion-scarlet flowers. This is one of
the most brilliant of the old-fashioned flowers. There are white
flowered forms of this species. The German Catchfly (L. Viscaria)
grows only about 12 inches high, has dense growing, evergreen foliage
and fragrant, deep red flowers. There is a sticky, viscid area below
the flowers. L. Haageana has single, orange-scarlet flowers, shaped like
those of Maltese Cross, and grows a foot tall. Most of these varieties
have double forms which are really as interesting as the single ones.

Uses. AU of these varieties are used for cut flowers, in pereimial
borders and rock gardens. They make a fine bedding plant because
the period of bloom is extended over the Summer months.

Culture. Lychnis is very easy of culture. The plants like
sandy, weU manured loam in fuU sunlight. Those varieties suitable
for the rockeries grow weU in dry soils. These are one of the best groups
of plants for withstanding droughts.

Propagation. The best method is by division of the plants in
Spring, although aU the varieties are easily grown from seed which
blooms the second year after being sown.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS

123

Lythrum — Purple Loosestrife, Black Blood

The coniiiion Piirple Loose-
strife {Lythrum Salicaria) grows
from 4 feet to 6 feet tall and
blooms during the months of
July and Augiist. The foliage
is willow-like and the tall,
erect, graceful spikes produce
brightly colored, reddish-pur-
ple flowers. The Rose Loose-
strife (L. roseum superbum)
has rose-colored flower, while
Perry's variety has large and
glistening cherry-red flowers.

Uses. The Loosestrife takes
care of itself when planted at
watersides, margins of lakes or
streams. There is hardly any
plant which can equal this
when it is naturalized in bogs,
swampy woodlands or in wild
gardens.

Culture. These plants are
moisture loving and should be
planted in partial shade in low

fftj?*,.

Purple Loosestrife or Lythrum, unex-
excelled for waterside planting.

lands or in swamps.

Propagation. They are
propagated by stem cuttings, by seeds and division of the roots.

Lysimachia — Loosestrife, Creeping Jenny or
Creeping Charlie, Moneywort, Gooseneck

Moneywort, Creeping Jenny and Creeping Charlie are aU common
names for Lysimachia Nummularia, which is a prostrate or creeping
plant and grows very rapidly. It has very showy yeUow flowers and
blooms from May to September. The Loosestrife (L. clethroides) is
a very showy and graceful Japanese variety. It grows 3 feet high and
produces long, recurved or drooping spikes of pure white flowers from
July to September. The leaves take on bright autumnal colors in the

124 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Fall when the flowers are gone. L. pundala is another yellow flowered
sort which is attractive. The flowers are produced in whorls around a
leafy stalk.

Uses. The Loosestrife is useful for cutting for it lasts well when
cut, to grow in a border, wild garden or along lake margins. There is
hardly any plant which surpasses the Moneywort for covering banks,
rustic urns, vases, old stumps, or to grow in hanging baskets. The
plants spread very rapidly and are very showy when they are in bloom.
This is a good carpeting plant for shady places under trees, but it must
be admitted that it spreads rapidly and may become a weed.

Culture. All of the varieties prefer moist situations and it is
because of this that they grow so splendidly on stream banks or in
any kind of waterside plantings. The plants do not require any care.

Propagation. Division of the roots, either in late Autunm
or early Spring, is the best method of multiplication.

Mertensia — Virginia Cowslip, Smooth Lungwort,
Kentucky Blue Bells

The Virginian Cowslip is one of the lovehest of the early Spring
blooming plants. In rambhng through the fields and woods for Violets,
large clumps of these flowers can be seen growing at random. Of the
many species, this Virginian Cowshp, often wrongly called Blue Bells
{Mertensia virginica) is the showiest of all and the one which is most
easily grown. The plants grow from 1 foot to 2 feet high, with soft,
light green stems and foliage. The flowers are reddish purple when
in bud, but as the flowers open, they change to a lovely gentian-blue.
They hang in drooping, nodding, graceful clusters and the individual
flowers are funnel-shaped. It comes into bloom early; in fact, most of
the growth is made before leaves come out on the trees.

Uses. The Virginian Cowshp serves its best purpose when al-
lowed to naturalize itself in shady places. It combines wefl in borders,
or in shaded corners where it can grow as if in its own wild habitat.

Culture. Mertensias need moist soil, preferably a rich, deep,
loamy soil. Although most of the growth is made in sunlight, for it
grows so early in the Spring, yet the plants should be naturalized in
shady places and should not be disturbed when once planted. Mer-
tensias are nearly always found growing in damp woods.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 1 25

Propagation. New plants are grrown througli division of the
old ones.

Monarda — Bee Balm, Bergamot, Horse Mint,
Oswego Tea

The lovely eardinal or scarlet red flowers of the Bee Balm have
for years been one of the standbys in the old-fashioned hardy garden.
The "Cambridge Scarlet" variety of Monarda didyma is the best one
to grow, attaining a height of from 2 feet to 3 feet and blooming all
Summer. The whole plant is aromatic, the leaves especially having a
"minty" odor. The stems are square-angled, the leaves a dark green
and the flowers a vivid scarlet. M. fistulosa has a lavender flower
which is more compact, somewhat resembhng that of the common
Clover blossoms.

Uses. The Bergamot is one of the most striking plants for borders
or for massing against a background of shrubs. The flowers are used
for cutting and often the leaves have been used in the place of tea.
Many persons grow Bergamot just because of its "minty" fohage. It
also is quite an attraction to humming birds and bees.

Culture. Bergamot forms a thick sod or mat and the plants
simply refuse to be crowded out by other plants or weeds. The clumps
should be divided in the Spring. Although they will grow in almost
any soil or any situation, the plants are especially fine when grown
near water or in moist places. The plants are easily established and
are of simplest culture.

Propagation. Bergamot is easily divided and new plants start
readily. This should be done in the Spring. Plants can also be raised
from seed.

CEnothera — Evening Primrose, Sundrops

The Evening Primroses are among the truly beautiful plants which
anyone can grow in his garden. The plants grow from 1 foot to 2 feet
high, spreading out and j)roducing many satiny. Poppy four-pelalled
flowers of white, light rose and varying shades of yeUow.

126

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

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NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 127

Species. CEnoiherafruticosa and its varieties, Fraseri and Youngii,
have rich, golden yellow flowers produced freely from June through
September. It is one of the most commonly seen Evening Primroses,
growing 2 feet tall.

CE. speciosa is the commoner white sort, of "lazy looking habit;"
the unopened buds are drooping. The flowers, as they mature, gradu-
aUy turn pink. The leaves are divided.

CE. missouriensis. This startling species produces golden flowers,
5 inches across, upon low, trailing plants. The flowers are foUowed by
large, winged seed pods, so large for the size of the plant that they seem
unnatural. The foliage becomes reddish in the Autumn. This sort is
sometimes catalogued as CE. macrocarpa.

CE. biennis and CE. Lamarckiana are biennials which have become
weeds in most gardens and for this reason they are not greatly admired
although they are praised in European catalogs for their height and
wealth of yeUow blooms.

These plants open their flowers toward evening and close them
in the morning, hence their common name. Most of them, however,
are open through the day as weU as during the evening.

Uses. Evening Primroses are handsome plants for the rockery,
for the border and for bedding designs. The flowers are fragrant and
therefore are useful as cut flowers. They are beautiful when massed
in front of shrubbery or planted in the wild garden, for the clusters
of flowers are very fragrant and the bees are always around them.

Culture. CEnotheras sometimes become "weeds" because the
plants spread fast. They grow weU in any ordinary situation, in weU-
drained, moderately rich soil. They need moisture and the soil should
be prepared as deeply as it is possible to get good moisture. The
clumps need not be transplanted often.

Propagation. Many of the species increase by producing small
tufted plants at the base of the old ones. When the plants are divided
it should be done in early Spring, in March or April. They are easily
grown from seeds.

Papaver — Oriental Poppy, Iceland Poppy

There are Poppies and Poppies, old-fashioned ones and new
varieties, and it would almost seem that they grow more dazzling and
more gorgeous each year. Perhaps they are grown in a greater number

['>H

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

of gardens and we
see their brilliant col-
ors everywhere dur-
ing the early Summer
months, or perhaps,
we too have learned
the secret of growing
these deMcate silken
flowers which con-
stantly command at-
tention. What more
startling effect could
be gained than by
having a mass of
Giant Oriental Pop-
pies {Papaver orien-
tale) stand out boldly
.against a dense back-
ground of dark ever-
greens? The colors
of the named varie-
ties range all the
way from silvery
white, through blush
and rose pink to salm-
on and scarlet-crim-
son, each flower sway-
ing and nodding on
long, graceful stems. The Oriental Poppy blooms during May and
June, grows from 23^ feet to 4 feet high and the whole plant, from the
heavy, magnificent fohage to the large flower cups and seed pods, makes
a majestic subject. The flowers often measure 9 and 10 inches across.
Some of them have a black blotch in the center of the petals and all
have a great number of purplish-black stamens in the heart of the cup.
P. o. bradeafiim is an important variety of a deep crimson-red color.
The flowers are surrounded by large, leafy bracts. Gypsophila panicu-
lata, Phlox siibulata (white) or golden Alyssmn are good to combine
with the Oriental Poppy as a border plant.

The Iceland Poppies (Papai^er nudicaiile) are dwarfer plants, grow-
ing about VI inches high. They are also favorites in the garden for the
satiny petals of white, lemon, yellow and orange are beautifully crinkled
and have a dehcious fragrance. They bloom all through the Summer

Iceland Poppy,

dainty edging plants with lovely
colors.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS

129

if the flowers are kept well picked, and either single or double flowered
plants can be grown.

Uses. Poppies make lovely cut flowers, but unless care is exer-
cised in cutting them, the petals will drop and they will last no time.
The flowers should be cut early in the morning when the buds are tight,
allowing them to open up in the water. They will last several days.
The giant Oriental Poppies may be cut either early in the morning, or
at evening, just as the buds are about to open. They wifl last longer
it' the outer green calyx is removed.

Poppies are used to a great extent in decorative work where
daring color efTects are needed.

Both the Oriental and Iceland Poppies are splendid subjects for
the perennial border, but should never be planted with other plants
unless the colors are carefully chosen. Both are beautiful if planted
in large masses by themselves. A good combination may be made with
Garden Hehotrope or Valeriana.

Culture. Oriental Poppies will grow in any open, sunshiny
position in a good, deep loamy soil. They are of easiest culture and
recjuire very httle care. During the dry speUs in the early season, they
should be watered occasionally, but after they have finished blooming
and the leaves begin to die down, they should be let alone for the roots

Missouri Evening: Primrose or CEnothera, one of the largest flowers of the gar-
den. There are other charming sorts of Evening Primroses.

130 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

seem to enjoy a thorough baking during the hottest months. When
the rains begin coming in September, the roots will show signs of
growth; then the plants can be safely transplanted. Oriental Poppies
should be mulched in the Wintertime. This mulch does not have to
be removed in the Spring for the leaves soon cover it. After the plants
are once satisfactorily situated they should be allowed to remain
imdisturbed for a number of years.

The Iceland Poppies are very easily established for they self-sow
very readily. If the flowers are cut every day, the plants will produce
flowers all during the Summer months. They are extremely hardy and
will grow in any soil.

Propagation. The Oriental Poppies should be divided in the
Fall after the plants have been dormant during the hot months, or in
early Spring. The roots may be cut into pieces % inches long and
planted in sandy soil, in which case new plants may be obtained.
Plants may be grown from seed, which requires a great deal of care.
The seeds should be gathered as soon as the pods are ripe and begin
to open. They should not be sown too thickly and should be wintered
over in the coldframe. As soon as new shoots start in the Spring,
pot them up, and after they have attained a good size, plant them
out in the open soil from the pots.

The Iceland Poppies self-sow readily.

Peony

Peonies have captivated the world. The "old red Piney," that
charming, old-fashioned flower, is hardly as popular as it was in days
now past, because the new, lovely and more delicately tinted varieties,
which have been recently introduced, are crowding their old relative
into the background. Peonies in great masses are now found growing
around the smaU cottage out in the viUage or country, along roads and
woodland paths, in gardens throughout the large cities and around the
mansions of the wealthy where they seem to have truly assumed that
aristocratic yet charming air so in keeping with the occasion. There
is no other hardy flowering plant which grows in the Northern States
and endures the Northern Winters as does the Peony. Massive with-
out being coarse, fragrant without being pungent, grand without being
gaudy, various in form and color, beyond the possibility of being suc-
cessfully superseded, they stand in the first rank of hardy flowers.

The genus PsBonia is divided into two sub-heads, the Shrubby or
Tree Peonies and the Herbaceous. See index and table p. 168.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS

131

Peonies — everybody's flower.

Peonies are grown both for their flowers and beautiful foliage.
From the time the red shoots first appear early in Spring, when the
flowers in an almost endless number of colors are massed on the bushes,
and when the glossy green foliage takes on the autumnal tints of vivid
carmine, purple, amethyst and orange, Peonies are in great demand.
The average height is from 2 feet to 4 feet, each plant spreading out
to ahnost the same distance. The flowers are borne either singly or
in groups of two or three. There are single blooms very much like
a wild Rose, except in size; semi-double flowers and double ones which
are a round mass of uneven petals. Some of the flowers are so large
and heavy that it often becomes necessary to prop them up so that
the Spring rains will not dash them into the mud. The leaves are
smooth, dark, glossy and divided. The colors of the flowers range
from purest white with a mass of golden stamens in the center through
all the shades of pink to the darkest of reds and purples. There are
also some pleasing yellow varieties. Many of the newer varieties are
delicately rose-scented which makes them very much more valuable
because the ofl'ensive odor of the early red "Piney" has been done
away with. Some of the varieties do not last very long, but if early
and late varieties are planted, a succession of bloom can be had which
will last for six or seven weeks. The greater majority of them are in

132

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNL\LS

bloom from about the middle of May on through June. The earlier
blooming varieties combine well with many bulbs, especially Daffodils.
Narcissi, Scillas, Gladioli and Lilies are very charming when planted
in among the Peonies, while Michaelmas Daisies, Delphiniums, Gail-
lardias and Lobelias make a very suitable background.

The Better Peonies

In Bulletin No. 7 of the American Peony Society, A. P. Saunders
gives the results of a questionnaire which he sent to members. The
voting was on the scale of 10. A variety receiving a rating of 10 would
be of the highest quahty, 7 fairly good, and below 5 not worthy of
cultivation. The following varieties received a grading of 8.5 and
above:

WHITE

9.9 Le Gygne

8.8 Alsace Lorraine

9.8 Kelway's Glorious

Enchantresse

9.4 Mme. Jules Dessert

Laura Dessert

9.3 Festiva Maxima

8.7 Albatre

9.2 Elizabeth Barrett

Avalanche

Browning

James Kelway

9.1 Frances Willard

8.6 Prime V ere

9.0 Baroness Schroeder

8.5 Marie Lemoine

8.9 Mme. Emile Lemoine

Pleas' Jubilee

PINK, ALL SHADES

9.8 Therese

8.7 Claire Dubois

9.7 Solange

Mignon

9.4 Tourangelle

8.6 Albert Crousse

9.3 Walter Faxon

Reine Hortense

9.2 La Fee

Eugenie Verdier

M. Jules Elie

Judge Berry

9.1 Lady A. Duff

La Lorraine

Martha Bulloch

Mme. Auguste Dessert

9.0 La France

8.5 Germaine Bigot

Milton Hill

La Perle

Raoul Dessert

Mme. Emile Galle

Rosa Bonheur

Maud L. Richardson

8.9 Georgiana Shaylor

Octavie Demay

Marie Crousse

Opal

8.8 Grandiflora

Kelway's Queen

Loveliness

DARK RED

9,2 Philippe Ri voire

8.7 Mary Brand

9.0 Longfellow

8.6 Cherry Hill

8.8 Karl Rosenfield

Mikado

M. Martin Gahuzac

8.5 Adolphe Rousseau

Richard Carvel

iNOTEWoinii^ pi:rennials

183

Uses. Peonies can Ix' used in almost any position in any jj^ardon.
These plants are equally at home planted as sinfj:le speeimens on the
lawn, in tall g:rass, in the woods, or planted in beds and borders with
other perennials and bulbous plants, or when massed by themselves.
Peonies can be planted along woodland paths, at the ends and edges
of shrubbery groups, at the bases of stone walls, or along drives and
walks. They are at home in almost any situation, naturaUzing as
readily in woodland copses as in formal gardens. They make a rather
dense growth and are often used in place of low hedges.

As for cut flowers they are absolutely invaluable. If they are cut
just as the bud is about to open and are placed in a cool room, the
blooms will last many days. Since the newer varieties are sweetly
scented, the flowers are now used to a greater extent in homes in vases,
bowls and baskets. The stems are long, stiff and are splendid to use
for decorative purposes for large functions where large flowers of rich
coloring are needed.

CuLTi'RE, Peonies abundantly repay good care and nourishment
and do not require a great deal of care after they are once estabhshed.

Types of Peonies.
S. — Single, showing (g), guard petals; (s), stamens; (c), carpels or lobes of pistil.
J. — Japanese type; stamens wider than in single.

B. — Bomb type. The stamens become narrow petals, called petaloides.
SD. — Semi-double. Many petaloides are quite wide and are mixed among the

stamens.
C. — Crown. The stamens are wider and petal-like. The carpels, which before

have remained unchanged, are now petal-like.
R. — Rose. In this type there is an entire transformation of the bloom.

13 i A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Preparation of the soil is one of the biggest factors in growing healthy
plants. They are heavy feeders and require a deeply prepared soil.
The best soil is a heavy loam, one which is not too heavy with clay nor
too hght with sand. Stiff yellow clay, a sour soil or an abundance of
fresh manure in the soil hinder the proper growth of the roots and
plant. The bed should be prepared very deeply, the soil being mixed
with well-rotted cow manure. Each plant should be given a space
3 feet in diameter for its development. The soil should be retentive of
moisture, yet well drained, for the plants rot out if the ground is so low
that the water will stand in pools around the plant during the Winter.
The manure should not be mixed among the roots, but clean soil should
be next to the roots and then the manure. The roots should be set
in the soil so that the top eye is not more than 2 inches or 3 inches
from the surface.

When the plants have finished blooming in the Summer, work
must be begun to insure a good next year's crop. Weeds should be
kept dowTi all during the Summer, for they rob the soil of its richness.
The first Winter the roots are loose in the soil and will need a good
coating of manure as a mulch appKed after the ground is thoroughly
frozen. This will prevent the roots from being heaved out of the
ground, due to alternate freezing and thawing. The maniu-e should
not be allowed to remain about the plants in the Summer but worked
into the soil. Diseases are spread by the presence of manure.

When once planted. Peonies should be left alone for a number of
years, except for dividing and replanting, which should be done every
eight or ten years.

It has been said that Peonies fade and loose their colors so readily.
The deUcate pink varieties fade to a white. This can be remedied by
either cutting the stems when the bud is about to open, or by erecting
a cheesecloth screen over the plants. This prevents the hot sunhght
from bleaching out the color.

Although Peonies are free from insects, they are very subject to
a pernicious bud rot. Many Peonies which do not seem able to mature
their buds are affected with this disease. It can be prevented by
avoiding manure about the crowns of the plants and by spraying weekly
from the first signs of Spring imtil sometime in May. Bordeaux Mix-
ture is the proper spray to use.

Many Peonies have two, three or more buds to a single stem. If
it is a single variety they should be left as they are because the spray
effect of flowers produced is very attractive. But with the large
double sorts, all except the largest center bud (terminal) should be
removed. This disbudding throws all the strength and food into one

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 185

flower, which is larger, finer and better in color. The buds should be
removed when small.

Propagation. Peonies are usually propagated by division of
the clumps, but it is a slow process, taking from three to five years
for characteristic blooms to appear. The tubers or roots resemble
those of Rhubarb. The best time to divide them is during September
or October. However, they may be divided and transplanted any
time from the middle of August until the ground freezes in the Fall.
If the plants are well estabhshed they will improve every year. Peonies
may be propagated by seeds which are sown as soon as they are ripe
in coldframes where they should be kept for a year before transplant-
ing. The seed should never be allowed to become throughly dry,
for when once thoroughly dried it may take two years or longer for
the seeds to germinate. The first blooms are never typical of the
plants; it takes from four to eight years to produce characteristic
blooms. One must remember that growing Peonies from seed is in-
teresting, not practical.

Pentstemon — Beard Tongue

The Pentstemons are beautiful border plants but do not do as well
in the Northern States as in the Southern ones, where the climate is
milder and the season of blooming is longer. They are very showy,
growing from 2 feet to 4 feet high, are rather bushy and have very long,
slender spikes which bear many trumpet-shaped flowers with hairy
throats from whence the name "Reard Tongue" comes. The colors
range from white, pale rose, azure blue, hlac, coral, scarlet, violet and
purple. Pentstemon barbatus Torreyi has slender, deep scarlet-red
flowers. The fohage is fight green and the stems are wiry and thin,
giving an airy appearance to the whole plant. P. gloxinioides Sensa-
tion has Gloxinia-fike flowers of varying colors — rose, filac, cherry,
crimson and purple. It grows about 2 feet high and is in bloom nearly
all Summer. P. Digitalis has white flowers with a purple throat, grows
2 or 3 feet high and blooms during June and July. The Pentstemons
somewhat resemble the Snapdragons, both in flower and in growth.
Often the flowers are two-colored, the petals being of one color and
the throat of another. The flowers last from June through October.

Uses. Pentstemons are very free blooming and are good for
cutting purposes. Their graceful growth and variety of colors make
them easily adaptable to almost any pereimial border. The dwarfer
ones are grown in rockeries.

136 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Culture. A good, deep garden soil mixed with leafmold or sandy
loam, in a well drained situation which is somewhat shady, is the best
place to grow Pentstemons. They hke plenty of water in the Sum-
mertime. Many are hardy, but Sensation requires mulching during
the Winter; even then, in the colder climates it freezes out. Good
drainage and loose, loamy soil are absolutely necessary to the growth
of Pentstemons.

Propagation. They are propagated either by division, seed
or cuttings. Cuttings should be taken in the Autumn, which is also
the time to divide the roots. Plants may bloom the first year if the
seeds are sown early. The varieties of P. gloxinioides are well treated
as annuals, sowing the seed each year.

Phlox — Hardy Phlox, Flame Flower, Moss Pink,
Wild Sweet William

Gardens, both old and new, cannot be what they are unless
Phloxes are present in all their brilliant colors to enliven the Summer
months just before the Fall flowers come into bloom and after the
Spring flowers have finished. Phloxes are old-fashioned favorites and
each one holds a bit of sentiment within its dehcate fragrance that
makes us reahze that they are wonderful. With the new varieties
which have been introduced during the last years, the new effects in
colors, the large size and gorgeousness of bloom, they have become
a class of flowers unsurpassed.

The Hardy Phloxes, which are the ones most commonly grown in
all garden^, are divided into two groups, those which bloom early and
are known as Phlox sujjruticosa, and those which bloom later, known
as P. decus.^ata. It is these two groups which have been improved
so much within the last dozen years that they have now become in-
valuable assets to any garden. The flowers are borne in large heads
or clusters at the tips of long, graceful, leafy stems which grow from
1 3/2 to 3 feet tall. AU of the flowers are very fragrant and the colors
of most of the named sorts are clear.

Varieties. The following is a partial list of Hardy Phloxes
which are wefl worth growing:

Elizabeth Cawpbell. This is one of the newer and very popular
colors. It has large trusses of brilHant salmon-pink blossoms with a
dark crimson eye. It is a rather low and stocky growing plant but is a
good, continuous bloomer.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS

137

Left, Hardy Phlox, the range of varieties giving an excellent choice of colors; right,
the Moss Pink or Phlox subulata, used to edge a walk.

Mme. Paul Dutrie. The color is not so intense. The light salmon
gradually changes to a pink which is more deUcate and soft.

Coquelicot. Flowers are of a most brilUant orange-scarlet with a
crimson-red eye.

Frail Anton Buchner. These flowers are very large, some being
larger than a silver dollar. The entire growth is strong and vigorous.
'Ili(> flowers are of purest white and the trusses are of enormous size.

Le Mahdi. The color of this Phlox is a very deep and metaUic
l)luish-violet. The trusses are large.

Rosenbiirg. The flowers are immense in size, of a deep carmine
violet color, with a blood-red eye.

G. A. Sfrohlein. The enonnous clusters of this plant have brilhant
scarlet-orange flowers with a bright carmine eye. This color does not
fade or bleach out in bright sunlight.

Bridesmaid. This is a tafl and stately white flowered Phlox with
a large, crimson eye.

Rynstrom (Rijnstroom). This beautiful colored one is a clear pink-
The flowers are also extremely large, some being the size of a silver
doflar.

138 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Miss Lingard. This is one of the early sorts. The flowers are white
with a dainty lavender eye. It is an indispensable variety.

Dwarf Phlox. Almost everyone knows the Moss Pink or Creeping
Phlox (Phlox subulata). It does not look hke the usual Phlox plant
at aU because it is dwarf, spreading in nature, with small, moss-like
leaves. As it grows it forms dense mats, 12 inches or more in diameter,
which flower very freely. The normal color is pink and in April and
early May the clumps are simply covered with myriads of flowers about
an inch in diameter.

Some of the other dwarf varieties which are good to grow are
P. amcena with bright pink flowers; P. divaricata canadensis, (Wild
Sweet WiUiam), with very fragrant lavender flowers and P. d. Laphami
with larger flowers of a more intense blue-lavender.

Uses. The Moss Pink or Phlox subulata grows wild and blooms
very early in the Spring. Because of its spreading habit it is usually
found growing on the surfaces of rocks, in fields or over dry banks.
In the rockery it is often planted in dry corners because it withstands
drought so weU, and its dense growth soon makes an admirable ground
covering, especially when hundreds of smaU clusters of pink and white
flowers come out in the Spring. It is also used as an edging for borders,
in cemeteries, on terraces, between stepping stones and in a great
many other places.

The Hardy Phloxes are aU fragrant and the flowers are splendid for
cutting purposes. With the new and striking colors, almost any efl'ect
can be carried out in the garden, either by planting them in soHd beds
where the colors grade into each other from dark to fight, or in long
beds along drives, woodland walks and paths, or in front of shrubbery;
or combined with other perennials in hardy borders. By planting care-
fully, a succession of bloom, lasting from early April until late in
September or October, can be carried out by just using the different
varieties of Phloxes. The best eff'ects are gained by planting masses
of each color together.

Culture. Phloxes need a great amount of moisture and should
be watered regularly in dry weather. It is even advised to mulch the
plants during the dry Summer months to conserve what moisture is
present. They should not be planted in the grass because the grass
win get aU the moisture. The soil should be prepared deeply to a depth
of about 2 feet; it should be weU drained and moderately rich. Since
Phloxes are gross feeders, good, rich soil and plenty of moisture are
absolutely necessary for their growth.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 139

The Dwarf Phlox plants should be set about 10 inches or 12 inches
apart and the taller Hardy Phloxes about 18 inches apart. Young
plants can be set out any time in the Spring. If the shoots are pinched
back in June or July the plants wiU become branched and bushy, and
will go on blooming until late Autumn. It takes from two to three
years to obtain good-sized and well formed plants. They should be
divided and transplanted every three or four years or the blooms will
begin to deteriorate and the soil will become exhausted. If the first
display of flowers is cut back as soon as the blooms are faded, a second
crop of bloom will come on before Fall. Phloxes will grow either in
full sun or in partial shade.

During damp seasons the plants are sometimes attacked with
mildew. As soon as the first signs of this appear, the plants can be
sprayed with Bordeaux Mixture or if powdered sulphur is dusted on
the leaves in the morning when the dew is on them, it will soon check
the mildew. The latter is sometimes caused by having the plants too
close together so that good air circulation around the lower stems is
prevented. Red spiders also attack Phlox. This can best be deter-
mined when it is noticed that the lower leaves turn a rusty brown.
A forceful sprinkhng with a hose on the under side of the leaves should
be apphed. If, however, the attack is very severe, it is best to cut the
stalks back near the ground and let new growth start.

The plants should be mulched every Winter with well decayed
manure.

Propagation. Phloxes are propagated by division of the clumps,
which should be done every three years, for they tend to weaken in
the center; by seeds, which may give many new and interesting colors
and types, but usually resulting in magentas and muddy colors; by
cuttings made from the stems. Dividing of the clumps should be
done in the Fall or in earhest Spring before much growth has been
made. Commercial nurseries propagate by root cuttings. The roots
are cut into 2 inch pieces early in Spring or Fall and sown in flats,
much as seeds are treated.

Physostegia — False Dragon Head, American

Heather, Obedient Plant, Mexican Heath,

Accommodation Flower

The False Dragon Head {Physostegia virginiana) is another one of
the few August blooming plants. It is extremely beautiful, with spikes
of rosy pink, lilac or white flowers which are tube-shaped and similar

140

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNL\LS

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 141

to a tiny Siiap(lra;j:()n hlossu!!!. The buds and llowers grow on the
stem as if growing on the four sides of a square. The plant grows
about 3 feet or 4 feet high, spreads out and has very pretty foUage
surrounding the graceful spikes. It begins blooming in July and lasts
through September. The names, Obedient Plant and Accommodation
Flower, are derived from the fact that the flowers remain at any
angle at which they are turned.

Uses. This plant is splendid in a border, but because the flowers
are pale, brighter contrasting colors should be worked in around it
to bring the pink or lilac color out. The flowers last for a long time
and are very useful for cut flowers. They are good in the border be-
cause they bloom at a time when many other flowers have flnished.
They are especially efl*ective near waterfalls, along stream banks, or
when placed in front of dark green shrubs.

Culture. Physostegias require a rather moist soil in either sunny
or shady places. The plants spread very rapidly and will tend to
become a nuisance unless they are divided every year or two. They
are of easy culture and should be planted about 2 feet apart in good soil.

Propagation. These plants are easily started from seed, or new
plants can be had when the plants are divided every year.

Platycodon — Chinese Balloon Flower

The Chinese Balloon Flower is very closely aUied to the Cam-
panulas. It grows erect and the stems are rigid. The flowers have
five petals and open out rather flat, but when in bud they look like
inflated balloons, from whence the common name is derived. The
flowers are both single and double. They are blue and white in color
and sometimes will have blue or white veins which makes them appear
as if they had been streaked. They begin blooming about the middle
of June and last throughout the Summer. The Chinese Bell Flower or
Balloon Flower is known as Platycodon qrandiflorum and grows 3
feet taU. P. g. Mariesii has deep blue, bell-shaped flowers, some of
them nearly 3 inches across, but it is more dwarf, only growing about
12 inches high.

Uses. Platycodons are splendid border plants, for the plants are
neat and well formed and they are in bloom all through the Summer
months. They are also planted among shrubbery. The flowers can
be cut and last well.

142

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Culture. These plants nearly always flower the same season
they are planted. They grow readily, sending up long spikes, so that
nicely ' shaped bushes are formed in a couple of seasons. Medium
sandy loam is the best soil. Do not cut the old stems back in the Fall
when the blossoms are gone, but let them die away naturaUy so as not
to injure the crown, which should be set about one inch below the
surface. Slight Winter protection is beneficial.

Propagation. The most successful method is by seeds. The
root stalk is fleshy and thick and a great deal of care must be exercised
in dividing it.

Plumbago — Leadwort

Plumbago Larpentse or Ceratostigma plumhaginoides is one of the
very late blooming small border plants. Because it is such a persistent
blooming plant from July until freezing weather in the Winter, it is
very much valued at the time of the year when most other border
plants have finished blooming. Plumbago Larpenix grows about
10 inches or 12 inches high and forms a round, ball-hke mass of dark

Left, Plumbago, one of the best late blue edging plants; right, Knotweed or Poly-
gonum, with its Buckwheat-like flowers.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 143

green, glossy foliage wliich in the Fall months is covered with trusses
of lovely cobalt-blue flowers on wiry stems, which last for a long time.

Uses. Plumbago Larpentx is especially useful as a rock garden
plant because the foliage turns a reddish-bronze in Autumn and lasts
so long that, with the deep glossy green foliage of early Spring, it makes
a good all-the-year-round plant. This perennial is also used in borders
and as an edging plant.

Culture. In the colder regions the plants need protection during
the Winter. The plants may be taken from the ground and placed in
coldframes. They grow well in sunny places and in any good garden
soil.

Propagation. The plants are usually propagated by dividing
the roots in Spring.

Polemonium — Jacob's Ladder, Charity, Greek
Valerian

Jacob's Ladder is a very ornamental and graceful flowering plant of
early Spring and Summer. The flowers are blue, or white, flat or beU-
shaped, and are borne in spikes; the foHage is very finely cut, much
resembUng fern fronds. Polemonium cseruleum or the Greek Valeri£ui
is rather bushy with long spikes, about 2 feet high, of sky-blue flowers
with golden anthers. P. reptans, a native of our woods, is dwarf,
growing 6 inches or 8 inches high, with hght blue flowers which come
into bloom early in April, P. humile {Richardsonii) is very dainty and
dwarf with small spikes of blue flowers growing from small rosettes of
green, fern-hke leaves. All the varieties bloom from April or May
on through August or September.

Uses. Most of these plants are splendid for rockeries or in low
beds and borders. The taller ones are used in front of shrubs. Some
are grown as alpine subjects or in wild gardens. The flowers can be
cut, and with their deUcate foliage, make up beautifully for vase or
basket work.

Culture. Polemoniums are very easy to grow, thriving best in
dry places where the sofl is rich and well-drained and with some shade.

Propagation. These plants are propagated easily from seed
sown in the FaU or by dividing the plants.

144 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Polygonum — Knot-Grass, Knot-Weed

The Knot Weed is a very ornamental plant for any garden be-
cause the foliage is so beautifully tinted in Autumn. Some of the va-
rieties grow very high and greatly resemble Bamboo in growth. Poly-
gonum sachalinense is one of this type, attaining a height of from 9 feet
to 12 feet, with leaves 12 inches long and sprays of greenish-white
flowers. The stems are curving or arched. P. affine (Brunonis) is the
dwarf variety, growing 6 inches to 18 inches high, with bright, rosy
red flowers and beautifully colored foKage. P. amplexicaule grows
about 2 feet or 3 feet taU and has deep red flowers which come into
bloom very late in September and last until October. P. Sieholdii
compadum grows about 15 inches high, has small, glossy green leaves,
and the entire plant is covered with small white flowers. Most of the
varieties are in bloom from July through August.

Uses. The Giant Knot-Weed is used mostly in wild gardens or
imder trees, where an immense shrubby perennial is needed. The
other varieties are grown in front of shrubs or herbaceous borders.
Some of the dwarf ones are used in rockeries. Any of these are very
efl"ective when planted in masses, especially along banks of streams or
in moist places. Some of the flowers are valued for cutting.

Culture. Some Polygonums require a great deal of space, for
the plants are very large. They are moisture loving and should be
planted in places where the ground is naturally very moist and does
not dry out easily. They will grow almost anywhere, in any soil, and
need very Mttle attention.

Propagation. They are propagated by seeds and division of the
plant.

Potentilla — Cinquefoil, Five Finger

PotentiUas greatly resemble the Strawberry Plant, especially in
the manner of growth and the fohage. This is a trailing plant which
covers the ground rapidly and sends out roots as it goes along. The
flowers are very showy, the colors are very bright, with reds, oranges
and yellows predomiQatuig. These flowers are both double and single
and are borne in great profusion from June to August. The single
blooms look like a Buttercup or a Strawberry flower. Potentilla
airosanguinea, a parent of many lovely varieties, has single, rich
primson blossoms. Miss Wihnott is cerise, and WiUiam RoUison

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 145

is a combination of orange and mahogany-red with double flowers.
There are a great many varieties, nearly all of which have double
flowers.

Uses. Potentillas are most effective when planted in rock gar-
dens where they can grow over large boulders of rock and need not be
thinned out every year. They are excellent to plant in bare places
where a good ground covering is needed, for these plants grow rapidly
and soon form a thick covering.

Culture. These plants should be set about 18 inches apart in
any garden soil, but they do best when planted in rich, hght, loamy
soil. They like exposed places and will need to be thinned out every
year. There should be a Hght mulch of leaves placed over the plants
during Winter.

Propagation. Potentillas send out roots along the trailing
stems; hence, new plants are very easily obtained by thinning out.
They are also easily grown from seed.

Primula — Primrose, English Cowslip, Oxlip,
Polyantha

Hardy Primroses are showy plants which fit in well with any
Spring bedding design. The small flowers are graceful and dainty
and the varieties can be so chosen that they will be in bloom from
April for a month. Primroses grow from 6 inches to 18 inches high and
have light green, hairy leaves. The colors of the hardy sorts range
from white to the darkest crimson and yellow. Some of the varieties
are double, and others present this appearance because the petals are
wavy and crinkled. The hardy sorts of Primroses are derived from
Primula elatior, P. veris and P. vulgaris. These are much of one type,
the flowers being borne in umbels or clusters of six to twelve flowers.
There is, however, another interesting species, P. japonica, the Japanese
Primrose, which bears the flowers so that one umbel, or cluster, is above
another. The colors vary from rich dark crimson through the inter-
mediate tints to white. The petals are of a heavy texture and waved.
Almost aU the varieties of Primroses are worth growing and wherever
planted, they increase in beauty and interest with each succeeding year.

Uses. Primulas make dehghtful subjects for the rock garden,
edging a shady border or against old walls. They naturalize readily
along streams, woods or shrubbery and are also suited for growing in
porch boxes or in pots. The flowers are fragrant and make splendid
cut flowers.

14C

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Culture. Primulas are not difficult to grow, yet they reward
one for any amount of trouble. One of the first requisites is to keep the
soil moist. The plants will die if they are allowed to pass through the dry
Summer months without plenty of water. Primroses should be planted
in rich, well drained soil in a shaded nook in order to protect the plants
from the hot sunshine during the Summer. Shght protection during
Winter is needed, such as a fight mulching of leaves and straw. In the
Fall, if the crowns of any of the plants are above the surface of the soil,
these plants should be taken up and reset. Primroses resent a great deal
of cultivation; good, rich soil, partiaUy shaded quarters and plenty of
moisture are aU they need.

Propagation. Primroses are usually propagated by seeds sown
in March in a coldframe or in May to July outdoors in shaded places.
The seed should just be scratched into the surface soil and firmed.
The plants can also be divided early in Spring or in the FaU.

Pyrethrum — Pink Daisy

The form of the Daisy is admired by all, so that it is strange that
persons do not grow the lovely Daisies known as Pyrethrums.

— ■ ^ ^r . _ .- T- —

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:i'&^^'~-

IHHH

» / , *

3J5^^%i& ^ * ' ^^^I^S^Sa^. \

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Primroses. A mass to tempt us to imitate it.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 147

The flowers are bright in color and are borne on long stems. They might
be called Spring Chrysanthemmns , for they bloom principally in June.
Many of the sorts are attractively doubled. The colors range from
deep rich crimson to hght pink and white. They grow 2 feet to 3 feet
taU. The proper botanical name is Chrysanthemum coccineum; the
catalogs also call them Pyrethrum roseum and hybridum. ^

Uses. The Enghsh are so fond of these flowers that they have
many named varieties. Of Pyrethrums The Ladies' Field writes:

"Amongst the most satisfactory of all the flowers in the garden we
may count double Pyrethrums. They are of almost infinite variety, which
time seems powerless to wither, and which custom never stales. Nearly
every year sees some new development, the result of skillful raising and
discriminating selection. They have many good (juahties to recommend
them. These flowers are extremely showy, and are as hardy as they are
efi'ective. They are of the easiest possible culture, and as cut flowers they
are invaluable, lasting for fuU two weeks in fuU and fresh beauty.
This, when one is away from one's own garden and has to barter for
flowers for the good contentment of the moment, is a great desideratum.
In the borders they last for several months. Pyrethrmns are in their
height of beauty in June, but by means of judicious thinning and stopping,
and by the entire prevention of the formation of anything Hke seed, they
may be kept blossoming all through the Summer. If this be too much
trouble, and a continued succession is not wanted, the plants may be cut
right down after their Midsummer blossoming, when they wiU spring up
again with rejuvenated vigor, and blossom gaily again in the Autumn as
vigorously as if it were their first effort for the year."

Culture. The Pyrethrums grow nicely, even in partial shade,
but they must have perfect drainage. An important point in their
culture is alluded to above; they should be prevented from seeding and
if cut down directly after they have produced their main crop of bloom,
they will bloom profusely late in Summer.

Propagation. Sow the seeds or divide the plants in Spring.

Romneya — Matilija Poppy, California Tree Poppy
White Bush Poppy, Dream of the Desert

A glorious miracle! Thus has the Matihja Poppy been described.
With its transparent, dehcate, silvery, crinkled flowers which look as
if they were made of the finest white silk crepe, would they not indeed
present a glorious appearance ?

The Matihja Poppy {Romneya Coulleri) is a native of the South-
western States, Mexico and Cahfornia in particular, but with proper
care, it can be grown equally well in the Northern and Eastern States.
The flowers greatly resemble a large, white single Peony. It is as

148

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Left, Pyrethrum or Pink Daisy. Could our illustration but show the colors of
these Daisies! Right, Matilija Poppy or Romneya, a glorious miracle of silvery,

silk crepe.

large, being 4 inches to 6 inches in diameter, and has a mass of golden
yellow stamens in the center of the pure white, crumpled petals. The
leaves are bluish-green and are very deeply cut. This Poppy is a semi-
shrub and grows from 4 feet to 6 feet high, spreading out each year until
large clmnps are formed. The flowers come into bloom about the end
of June and last until the first of September; they are borne singly on
long stems, each stem having from six to twelve or fifteen blooms.
The individual flowers last about three days and have a delightful
Primrose-fike perfume.

Uses. The Matilija Poppy is grown in clumps in parks or gar-
dens or in protected semi-wild places. The flowers last well in water
and their delightful perfume and delicate satiny beauty make them
most acceptable in any room.

Culture. These plants should be planted in warm, porous, sandy
loam on a southern exposure. The soil should be free from stagnant
moisture or water at all times, and especially so during the dormant
season in Wintertime. Before the heavy frosts penetrate to the roots,
they should be heavily mulched. After the plants are once estabHshed,
they should be left strictly alone; even cultivation around the roots
seems deterimental. Like herbaceous perennials, the stems die to

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 149

the ground each year and the flowers are borne on tlie new growtli
which comes each Spring.

Propagation. The Matilija Poppy can be grown from seed, but
this is a rather unsatisfactory method. Root cuttings are the surest
way. The roots resemble thick prongs to which very few libers are
attached. Spring is the best time for transplanting.

Rudbeckia — Cone Flower, Golden Glow, Black-
Eyed Susan

The garden's gold is greatly enhanced in Autumn by the sorts of
Rudbeckias, especially the Golden Glow, which is the double form of
Rudbeckia laciniata. Everyone knows this common perennial and ad-
mires its wealth of bloom. One of the handsomest Coneflowers is
R. Newmanii (speciosa) which bears golden yellow single, Daisy-hke
flowers with a high purple cone in the center. R blooms from August
to September and grows several feet tall. There is an interesting sort
which has smooth, gray-green, Cabbage-Uke leaves, known as R.
maxima. The plants grow 6 feet to 8 feet tall and bear bright yellow
flowers, 4 inches or 5 inches in diameter, upon long, stiff stems. The
cone at the center is often 2 inches high. Another grayish sort is R.
suhiomeniosa, but in this case the leaves and stems are densely covered
with hair. The flowers are brilhant yellow with a chocolate center and
are borne in large clusters. This sort also blooms in late Summer and
early Fall. The Autumn Sun, /?. nitida, has rich yellow flowers in
which the rays are decidedly drooping. R blooms from August to
October. R. triloba is a biennial sort with yellow flowers which have
orange or purple-brown markings and a black purple cone in the center.

R. purpurea, the Purple Coneflower, is discussed under Echinacea.

f SES. The showy character of the plants make them especially
useful in bold masses for the border. The Golden Glow is valued where
there are outbuildings, fences, and unsightly objects to be hidden. All
the sorts serve admirably as cut flowers, for the stems are long, and the
blooms are lasting.

Culture. The plants thrive anywhere, but are especially adapted
to sunny plages. When many of the sorts are cut back after flowering,
they will send up a second crop of flowers.

Propagation. All the sorts, except Golden Glow, may be grown
from seed, but the usual method of propagation is by division of the
plants in early Spring. Some of the wild Rudbeckias, generally known
as Rlack-eyed Susans, are biennials. These are raised from seed, but
as they usually self-sow, further seeding is generally unnecessary.

150

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Salvia — Sage

Many persons are familiar with the Scarlet Sage and it is of this
plant that many persons will think, but we shall speak here of the
hardy Sages.

Light Blue Salvias. Salvia azurea grandiflora. This species is

one of great beauty,
bearing hght azure
colored flowers in
great profusion upon
tall, slender spikes.
The plants grow from
3 feet to 4 feet tall
and bloom from Au-
gust until frost.

S. farinacea closely
resembles the former
species, except that
the calyx ;enclosing
the flowers is a mealy
white. It is,' there-
fore, a splendid sort,
the blue flowers con-
trasting with the
grayish stems land
calyxes. Some per-
sons have said that
this species resembles
the Lavender, but it
is, of course, without
the fragrance of true
Lavender. Some gar-
deners advise that
this sort be treated as an aimual, sowing the seeds each year.

S. uliginosa is also a blue sort, but the throats of the flowers are
white. The plants grow 5 feet to 6 feet taU and bloom from July until
frost. In general appearance it is similar to S. azurea.

Deep Blue or Violet Salvias. S. nemorosa {virgaia nemorosa).
The purpUsh-violet flowers are produced in dense clusters in July.
The calyxes and stems become reddish. It is wise to cutthe plants
back after flowering, in which case they bloom again in Autumn.

The Azure Sage is charming in the Fall months.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS 151

S. patens is the deepest indigo-blue, a most unusual color but the
flowers are not produced in great profusion. It must be treated as an
annual.

Uses. Most sorts of Salvias are interesting border plants where
they make an attractive appearance grown in masses. They are
generally good cut flowers as well.

Culture. Salvias, although of easy culture, require some at-
tention. Except for S. azurea grandiflora they are not perfectly hardy
and will need some protection during the Winter. Plant Salvias in
the sun and give them from 18 inches to 2 feet on all sides. The roots
of S. patens may be dug and wintered in a cool ceUar.

Propagation. Some sorts may be divided in the early Spring.
S. farinacea, S. patens, and S. uliginosa are raised from seed sown in
the early Spring, in which case, they bloom the first year from seed.

Scabiosa — Pincushion Flower

To those persons who are familiar with the annual sorts of Scabiosa,
we need only say that the perennials resemble the annuals, except that
the perennials have shorter florets at the center, while in the annual
sorts the flowers are made up of florets of more uniform length. Scabiosa
caucasica is the commonest perennial with flowers either light hlac blue
or white. The plants grow^ 2 feet to 3 feet taU. The leaves are not cut
as is the case with the annual sorts. It blooms from June to September.
S. japonica grows 1/4 feet tall; the flowers are violet-blue and the
leaves are somewhat lobed. S. ochroleuca is a sulphur colored species
growing l3^ feet tafl.

Uses. The graceful, long, wiry stems of the Pincushion Flower are
attractive in the border, rising as they do from a tuft of leaves upon the
soil. They are best used in the front of the border. As cut flowers
they are long keeping and are easily arranged in vases.

Culture. They prefer weU drained locations and a suimy ex-
posure. The plants are said to prefer h'mestone soil. They winter
over exceUently unless standing in water-logged soil.

Propagation. Scabiosas are readily increased from seed or by
division of the plants. The strongest plants are best raised from seed.
Mr. Cecil Davies writes that "in saving seed, that produced by the
central flowers should be chosen." The seeds are best sown in Spring,
but the plants sometimes do not bloom until the next year.

152 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Sedum — Stonecrop

If there is a rocky spot in your garden you will desire a number of
sorts of Sedums, for they are most interesting in habit, leaf and flower.
Sedums are wild with us in America, but there are also many sorts
in Europe and Asia.

Species. Sedum spedabile. Showy Stonecrop. This is one of
the handsomest of all Sedums. It has pink or rosy-red flowers pro-
duced abundantly in flat clusters. The leaves of this sort, are thick
and juicy, as is the case with all Sedums. The flowers open in late
Summer and remain in bloom several months. The varieties Brilliant
and atropurpureum are superior to the wild sort.

iS. acre. Golden Moss. Wall Pepper. This low, tufted perennial
spreads over the soil. The leaves are small, attractive, hght green.
The flowers, bright yellow in color, completely cover the plants and
open in June and July.

*S. Sieboldii. This sort has round, gray leaves borne in threes and
pink flowers produced in September. The plants grow less than a foot
tall. In the Autumn the leaves become pinkish.

The following sorts are also good and should be searched for in
catalogs if one wishes to grow more of the species:

S. album, white flowers, 4 inches to 6 inches taU.

S. kamtschaticum, yellow flowers, 4 inches to 6 inches tall.

S. reflexum, yellow flowers, 6 inches to 10 inches tall.

S. sexangulare (resembles -S. acre but leaves and plants are smaller).

S. sioloniferum (spurium). Purple Stonecrop. Pink or white
flowers. Trailing.

S. ternatum. White flowers. Trailing.

Uses. For perennial borders the Stonecrops are dainty and
efl'ective edging plants. As a cut flower the Showy Stonecrop is at-
tractive. They are entirely at home in the rock garden. For planting
in rock steps, between stepping stones and for a ground cover the
dwarf sorts are unexcelled.

Culture. The Sedmns generally prefer a sandy soil; at least
it must be perfectly drained in Winter. Generally the Stonecrop
thrives best in sunbeaten places, but many of them may be coaxed to
grow in shaded places beneath trees and shrubbery.

Propagation. The propagation is simple: each piece of the
plant may be rooted and wiU grow into a good plant in a short time.
They also grow from seed.

NOTEWOirniY PERENNIALS

1.58

Above, the showy Stonecrop, a graceful though sturdy plant for all gardens;
below, AruncuE Sylvester or Goat's Beard, forming feathery masses of white

flowers.

154 . A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Spiraea — (Includes Aruncus, Astilbe, Filipendula,

Ulmaria)

There is a large group of herbaceous plants of great beauty known
as Spiraeas but which should be properly known by other names. They
are characterized by having attractive, airy plumes of flowers, in fact,
every garden has a place for a few of them.

Aruncus Sylvester (Goat's Beard) grows 5 feet to 7 feet tall and has
feathery white flowers produced in smaU spikes, forming large heads of
bloom. They bloom from June to July. This is the Spiraea Aruncus
found in the catalogs. This sort is especially useful for the borders
of streams in half-shaded places.

Asiilbe. The Astflbe resembles the Aruncus superficially in the
nature of their feathery flower spikes, but generaUy, as seen in the
garden, they are not as taU. Perhaps the most popular group for out-
door planting is known as A. Arendsii, this being an improved race
derived from hybridizing many other species. The varieties found in
catalogs bear rose, hlac, salmon-pink and white flowers. Some of the
names are: Geres, Juno, Kriemhilde, and Vesta. The names such as
japonica, Davidii and grandis are the species of Astilbe which are the
parents of the named varieties. Large quantities of A. japonica were
formerly imported to the United States for florist use at Easter time.
A federal quarantine prohibits these plants now. The plants in the
garden bloom in June, July or August.

Filipendula. Meadow Sweet. Ulmaria. The commoner species
known as the Queen of the Meadows, Filpendula Ulmaria, is a tufted,
fern-leaved plant. In late June and during July the plants send up
flower stalks 18 inches taU, bearing iftasses of white flowers. The double
sort, flore pleno, is more showy than the single. F. purpurea {palmata)
and its variety elegans have red and pink flowers produced in large
clusters, the crimson flower stems growing 3 feet tall. They bloom from
June to August.

Use and Gulture. These plants are exquisite for the border,
where they lend a misty charm to almost any combination of peren-
nials. They are superb pot plants. Filipendula Ulmaria, because of
its dwarf growth, is useful as an edging plant. Gut sprays of all sorts
add much to a bouquet in the home. They prefer a rich soil and an
abundance of water while in bloom; for this reason they are well
planted at the waterside. They are at home in half shade.

Propagation. The habit of growth by forming dense clumps
suggests the easiest method of increasing the plants; that is, by dividing
them with a strong knife.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS

155

Stokesia — Stoke's Aster, Cornflower Aster

Generally we do not think of a China Aster resembling a Corn-
flower, but it is true that the Stokesia resembles them both. Stokesia
Isevis (cyanea) is a low plant, seldom above iVz feet tall, and with light
lavender blue, white, purple and rose colored flowers produced from
early July to October.

Uses. They are especially recommended for the front of a border
and may be used for cut flowers.

Culture. Generally it is stated that this plant is sensitive to
cold, heavy soils and seems to thrive with drought-resisting subjects,
well drained in Winter. It prefers full sun.

Propagation. When raised from seed it blooms the first year.

Thalictrum — Meadow Rue, Feathered Columbine

These graceful, feathery flowers add an airy appearance to the
border of perennials. The leaves are fine and resemble the foliage of

Left, Meadow Rue or Thalictrum, altogether charming for border or base; right,
Globe Flower or Trollius, like a Giant Buttercup of golden yellow.

156 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

tile Columbine. Some sorts are natives of our woods, but the eul-
tivated species are superior in the size of their pknny heads.

Species. Thalictrum aaiiileqi folium. White flowers, June, 3 feet
tall.

T. adiantijolium (minus). Yellow flowers, June to July, 1 foot.

T. dipterocarpum. Rose-purple, yellow . stamens, August to
September, 5 feet. Not perfectly hardy. Best stored during Winter
in moss in a cellar.

T. glaucum. Golden yellow, June to July, 4 feet.

T. Cornuii. Native, white, July to September, 4 to 5 feet.

T. dioicum. Native, purphsh and greenish, April to May, 1 to
2 feet.

Uses. The Meadow Rues are excellent for the border and, being
refined plants, may be planted in the intimate spots of the dooryard.
The cut sprays are exquisite for bouquets. T. dipterocarpum is a sort
of recent introduction with distinct flowers having petals.

Culture. The plants do well in well drained shaded places.
T. Cornuti is especially good for moist soil along streams.

Propagation. The plants are readily divided, but if seed is
obtainable, it may be sown.

Trollius — Globe Flower

The Globe Flower is a glorified Buttercup; its leaves and
flowers resemble the Buttercup in form but are larger. Improved
varieties have orange, gold, orange-red and lemon-colored flowers,
often double. The commonest species is Trollius europseus, but while
all the catalogued species resemble each other in form, the seasons
and the colors of the flowers differ. They grow about 'i feet tall and
bloom throughout the Summer, starting in late May.

Uses. The Globe Flower flourishes, both in sun and shade, and
is especially at home in borders in which the soil is a trifle too damp
for other plants. They are showy border plants, their neat habit
and compact flowers commend them to all. We must add that they
grow nicely in the ordinary garden soil, even though it be away from
the waterside.

Propagation. Although usually propagated from seeds, the
plants are tardy in coming into bloom. Old plants may also be divided.

NOTEWORTHY PERENNIALS

157

Veronica — Speedwell

When Clirist was laboring beneath the heavy cross, He faltered,
and a maiden, St. Veronica, rushed forward to wipe the perspiration
from His brow. The impress of His face was found upon her napkin.
Such is the story of St.
Veronica, and because the
markings of some species of
Veronica resemble a face,
this flower was named after
St. Veronica. It is a pretty
story and one we recall
when looking at this flower.
Veronicas are excellent bor-
der and rock garden sub-
jects. The diversity of the
species render them of use
in many spots.

Species. Veronica longi-
folia subsessilis. Japanese
SpeedweU. This is, per-
haps, one of the most at-
tractive of ah blue-violet
flowers for the border. The
long spikes of bloom are
2 feet tall and are pro-
duced through July to late
September.

V. spicaia grows l3^ feet
tall and bears either blue,
pink, or white flowers in
June.

V. incana seldom grows over a foot tall and besides having ame-
thyst-blue flowers, it has gray fohage. It blooms in July and August.
V. virginica, Culver's Root, is a taU sort, 3 to 5 feet high, producing
cliisters of white spikes of bloom throughout July. Often called
Leptandra v irg in ica .

V. Teucrium rupeslris and V. repens are dwarf, trailing sorts car-
peting the soil with green and covered with pale blue flowers in May
and June.

Uses. As already stated the Veronicas are superb for the peren-
nial border and the rock garden. V. Teucrium rupestris and V. repens

Veronica. The most showy sort is V. longifolia

var. subsessilis, with its tall spikes of violet

flowers.

158 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

are also good ground covers for dry banks or graves. The taller sorts
are good for cutting, especially V. longifolia subsessilis.

Culture. Veronicas are of easy culture; they usually prefer
moist soil. Although they grow in poor soil, some fertihzer in the
form of bonemeal will increase the size of the spikes. They generally
prefer full sun, perhaps with the exception of V. virginica and V. repens.

Propagation. The plants are easily divided. Seeds may be
sown and some sorts root when the branches touch the soil.

Yucca — Adam's Needle and Thread, Spanish
Bayonet

The stiff, broad, sword-shaped leaves of Yucca filamentosa are
familiar to all. In Midsummer the flower stalks, rising to a height of
6 feet, are also famihar. The flowers are white and pendulous. It is
a personal opinion of the writer that, except when in bloom, they are
stiff, coarse and undeserving of a place in a small garden. It must be
admitted, however, that they are remarkably drought-resistant and
will thrive where trees rob the soil, so that more dainty plants cannot
exist.

Uses. When used at all they are best planted as specimens or
among shrubbery.

Culture. They will exist for a generation, and transplant with
difficulty when the plants become old as the roots go deeply.

Propagation. Seedlings will bloom when four to five years old.
As the plants sucker freely, this furnishes a ready means of propagation.

INDEX OF PLANT NAMES

159

INDEX OF PLANT NAMES

(Figures in italics indicate illustrations)
Page

Aaron's Beard (see Hypericum).

Achillea 40

Accommodation Flower (see Physos-

tegia).

Aconitum 41, 46

Actaea 31

Adam's Needle and Thread (see Yucca).

Adiantum 91

Adlumia 4S

Adonis 43

^gopodium 44

Ageratum, Hardy (see Eupatorium).
Agrimony, Hemp (see Eupatorium).
Agrostemma (see Lychnis).

Ajuga 44

Alkanet (see Anchusa).
Allegheny Vine (see Adlumia).

Althaea 112, 113

Alum Root (see Heuchera).

Alyssum 44

American Senna (see Cassia).

Anchusa 45, 4^

Anemone 31. 47, 48, 163

Anemone, Rue (see Anemonella).
Anemone, Wood (see Anemone).

Anemonella 31, 163

Anethum 108

Annual Pine (see Artemisia).

Anthemis 48

Aquilegia 49, 50

Arabis 51

Arisaema 31, 163

Arraeria 50, 52

Arrhenatherum 98

Artemisia 52, 109

Aruncus 153, 154

Arundinaria 99

Arundo 98

Asarum 31 , 164

Asclepias 53, 54

Asperula 54

Asphodel 55

Asphodeline (see Asphodel).

Aspidium 92

Asplenium 91, 92

Aster 48. 55

Aster, Stokes' (see Stokesia); Wild (see

Aster).

Astilbe 154

Aubrietia 57

Autumn Glory (see Helianthus).
Autumn Sun (see Rudbeckia).
Avens (see Geum).
Baby's Breath (see Gypsophila).
Balloon Flower, Chinese (see Platy-

codon).
Bamboo (see Arundinaria Bambusa

and Phyllostachys).

Bambusa 99

Baneberry (see Actaea).

Baptisia 57, 59

Barrenwort (see Epimedium).
Basket of Gold (see Alyssum).
Bayonet, Spanish (see Yucca).

Page
Beard Tongue (see Pentstemon).

Beebalm 125

Bellflower (see Campanula).
Bellflower, Chinese (see Platycodon).

Bellis 58, 59

Bells, Coral (see Heuchera); May (see

Convallaria).
Bellwort (see Uvularia).

Bergamot 125

Birdseye (see Adonis).
Bishop's Hat (see Epimedium).
Bishop's Weed (see ^gopodium).
Black Blood (see Lythrum).
Blanket Flower (see Gaillardia).
Blazing Star (see Liatris).
Bleeding Heart (see Dicentra).
Blood, Black (see Lythrum).
Blood Root (see Sanguinaria).
Blue Bells, Kentucky (see Mertensia).
Blue-Eyed Grass (see Sisyrinchium).
Blue Spiraea (see Caryopteris)
Bluet (see Houstonia).
Bluet, Mountain (see Centaurea).

Bocconia 59, 60

Boltonia ' 61

Boneset (see Eupatorium and Herbs).
Borage (see Herbs).

Bruckenthalia 102

Buddleia 61, 62

Bugbane (see Cimicifuga).

Bugwort 71

Bugle Flower (see Ajuga).

Burnet (see Herbs).

Burning Bush (see Dictarrinus).

Butterfly Bush (see Buddleia).

Butterfly Weed (see Asclepias).

Cactus, Hardy (see Opuntia and Echino-

cactus).

Callirhoe 63, 66

Calluna 102

Caltha 31

Campanula 64, 66

Campion, Rose (see Lychnis).

Camptosorus 92

Candytuft (see Iberis).
Canterbury Bells (see Campanula).
Cardinal Flower (see Lobelia).
Carnation (see Dianthus).

Caryopteris 65

Cassia 67

Catchfly, German (see Lychnis).
Catnip (see Herbs).

Caulophyllum 31, 164

Celandine, Tree 59

Centaurea 67

Cerastium 68, 69

Ceratostigma 142

Chalk Plant (see Gypsophila).
Chamomile (see Anthemis).
Chamomile, False (see Boltonia).
Charley, Creeping (See Lysimachia).
Charity (see Polemonium).

Chelone 31, 66. 69

Chickweed, Mouse-ear (see Cerastium).

160

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Page

Chimapliila 31, 165

Chrysanthemum, Hardy 70

Chrysanthemum (see also Pyrethrum).

Cimicifuga ' 71

Cinquefoil (see Potentilla).

Clavtonia 31, 165

Clematis 66, 72

Clifif Rose (see Armeria).
Climbing Fumitory (see Adlumia).

Clintonia ^!. 165

Cohosh, Black (see Cimicifuga).
Cohosh, Blue (see Caulophyllum).
Colt's-foot (see Tussilago).
Columbine (see Aquilegia).
Columbine, Feathered (see Thalictrum).
Common Chamomile (see Anthemisl.
Cone Flower (see Rudbeckia); Purple
(see Echinacea).

Conoclinium 90

Convallaria 72

Coral Bells (see Heuchera).

Coreopsis 69, 73

Corn Cockle (see Lychnis).

Cornflower (see Centaurea).

Cornflower Aster (see Stokesia).

Cortaderia (see Gynerium).

Cowslip (see Primula).

Cowslip, Virginian (see Mertensia).

Crane's Bill (see Geranium).

Creeping Jenny (see Lysimachia).

Cuckoo Flower (see Lychnis).

Culver's Root (see Veronica).

Cypripedium ^1 . 1 65

Daisies 74

Daisy, English (see P-ellis).
Daisy, Pink (see Pyrethrum).

Daisy, Shasta 7 '^

Daphne 75

Day Lily (see Hemerocallis ard Funkia).

Delphinium 75, 76

Dentaria 31. 165

Devil's Bit (see Liatris).

Dianthus 78, 70

Dicentra 31, SO

Dicksonia 91

Dictainnus 80, 81

Dielytra (see Dicentra V

Digitalis ^-^

Dill (see Herbs).
Dittany (see Dictamnus).

Dodecatheon 31, 166

Dog-tooth Violet (see Erythronium).

Doronicum 82, 86

Dragon Head, False (see Pbysostegia).
Dream of the Desert (see P.omneya).
Dusty Miller (see Lychnis, Centaurea).
Dutchman's Breeches (see Dicentra).

Eardrops, Golden (see Dicenira).

Echinacea 85 , .S'6'

Fchinocactus 63

Eclunops ^S, 86^

Edelweiss 87

Flymus 99

English Daisy (see Bellis).

Epimedium 87

Erianthus 100

Erica 102

Erigeron 88

Eryngium 89

Erythronium 31, 166

Page

Eulalia 100

Eupatorium 90

Fairies' Breath (see Gypsopiiila).

Fairy Flowers (see Ilcuchera).

False Chamomile 61

False Dragonhead n9, 140

False Indigo (see Baptisia).

False Starwort 61

False Wall Cress 57

h'ennel (see ?Ierbs).

P>rns: Christmas (see Aspleniuni);
Cinnamon (see Osmunda); Climbing
(see Lygodium); Flowering (see Os-
m.unda); Gossamer (see Dicksonia);
Hartford (see Lygodium); Hay-
scented (see Dicksonia); Lady (see ^
Asplenium); Maidenhair (see .Adian-
tum); Male (see Lastrea); Polypody
(see Polypodium); Royal (see Os-
munda); Shield (see Aspidium);
Walking (see Cainotosonis).

Festuca 100

Feverfew (see Herbs).

Filipendula 154

Five Finger (see Potentilla).

Flag (see Iris).

Flame Flower (see Phlox).

Flax (see Linum).

Flax, Spurge (see Daphne).

Fleabane (see Erigeron).

Florence 108

Flower of Jove (see Lychnis).

Foam Flower (see Tiarella).

Foeiiculum 108

Foxglove (see Digitalis).

Fraxinella 80

Funkia 27, 93

Gaillardia 86, 94

Gardener's Garter (see Phalaris).

Garland Flower (see Daphne).

Gas Plant (see Dictamnus).

Gauze F^lower (see Gypsophila).

Gay Feather, Kansas (see Liatris).

Gentian (see Gentiana).

Gentiana Ol

Geranium 31, 96

Geum 97

Ginger, Wild (see Asarum)

Glor,e Flower loo, 156

Globe Thistle (see Echinops).

Gnapl'.alium 87

Goat's Beard (see .Aruncus).

Goat Weed (see /Egopodium).

Gold Dust (see Ayssum).

Gold Flower (see Hypericum).

Golden Eardrops 81

Golden Glow (see Rudbeckia).

Golden Marguerite (see Anthemis).

Golden Moss (see Sedum).

Goldentuft (see Alyssum).

Gooseneck (see Lysimachia).

Grass: Fescue (see Festuca); F"ountain
(see Pennisetum); Hardy Pampas
(see Erianthus) ; Knot Grass (see
Polygonum); Lime (see Elymus);
Pampas (see Gynerium) ; Plume (see
Erianthus); Ribbon (see Phalaris);
Spike (see Uniola).

Grasses, Ornamental 97

Ground Ivy (see Nepeta).

INDEX OF PL\NT NAMES

161

Page

Gynerium 100

Gypsophila 101

Hardheads (see Centaurea).

Harebell 64

Heath, Mexican (see Physostegia).

Heather, American (see Physostegia).

Heather (see Calluna, Erica, Menziesia,
Bruckenthalia).

Helenium 103

Helen's Flower (see Helenium).

Helianthus 104, 105

Heliopsis 106

Helmet Flower (see Aconitum).

Hemerocallis 106, 107

Hepatica 31, 167

Herb Margaret (see Bellis).

Herb Robert (see Geranium).

Herbs 108. 109

Hesperis 110

Heuchera HO, m

Hibiscus Ill

Hinge Flower (see Physostegia).

Hollyhock (see Althaea).

Honeysuckle (see Aquilegia).

Horebound (see Herbs).

Horse Mint 125

Hosta (see Funkia).

Houstonia 31, 167

Hydrophyllum 31. 167

Hypericum 115

Hypoxis 31. 167

Hyssop (see Herbs).

Iberis 116

Indian Senna (see Cassia).

Indigo, False (see Baptisia).

Iris Ill, 116

Italian Borage (See Anchusa).

Ivory Thistle (see Eryngium).

Jack-in-the-Pulpit (see Arisaeuia).

Jacob's Ladder (see Polemonium).

Jeffersonia 31, 167

Jenny, Creeping (see Lysimachia).

Jerusalem Cross (see Lychnis).

Joe-Pye Weed (see Eupatorium).

King's Spear (see Asphodeline).

Knapweed 67

Knot Grass (see Polygonum).

Lady Slipper, Pink and Yellow (see
Cypripedium).

Larkspur (see Delphinium).

Lastrea 91

Lavandula 108, 118

Lavender (see Lavandula).

Lead Plant or Leadwort (see Plumbago).

Leontopodium 87

Leopard's Bane (see Doronicum).

Leptandra (see Veronica virginica).

Liatras..... 107, 118

Lily: Corfu (see Funkia); Day (see
Hemerocallis and Funkia); Lemon
(see Hemerocallis) ; of the Valley
(see Convallaria) ; Plantain (see Fun-
kia).

Linum 114, 119

Lobelia 120

Loosestrife (see Lysimachia).

Loosestrife, Purple (see Ly thrum).

Lungwort, Smooth (see Mertensia).

Lupine (see Lupinus).

Lupinus 31, 120, 121

Page

Lychnis 122, 126

Lygodium 92

Lysimachia 31, 123

Lythrum 123

Madwort (see Alyssum).

Mallow, Marsh (?ee Hibicus); Poppy (see
Callirhoe); Rose, Swamp (see Hibis-
cus); Marvels (see Hibiscus).

Maltese Cross (see Lychnis).

Marjoram, Sweet (see Herbs).

Marrubium 109

Marsh Mallow 1 1 1

Marsh Marigold (see Caltha).

Matilija Poppy (see Romneya).

May Apple (see Podophyllum).

May Bells (see Convallaria).

Meadow Rue (see Thalictrum).

Meadow Sweet (see Filipendula).

Mentha 108

Menziesia 102

Mertensia 124

Michaelmas Daisy (see Aster).

Milfoil (see Achillea).

Milkweed (see Ascelpias).

Mint (see Herbs).

Miscanthus 100

Mist Flower (see Eupatorium).

Mitchella 31, 168

Mitella 31. 88, 168

Mitrewort (see Mitella).

Monarda 125, 126

Moneywort (see Lysimachia).

Monk's Hood (see Aconitum).

Moss, Golden (see Sedum).

Moss Pink (see Phlox).

Mountain Bluet (see Centaurea).

Mountain Fringe (see Adlumia).

Mullein Pink (see Lychnis).

Myosotis 32, 35

Myrtle, Periwinkle (see Vinca).

Nepeta 109, 168

Obedient Plant (see Physostegia).

(Enothera 125, 129

Old Man (see .\rtemisia).

Old Woman (see Artemisia).

Opuntia 63

Origanum 108

Osmunda 91

Oswego Tea 125

Oxlip (see Primula).

Papaver 126, 127. 128

Partridge Berry (see Mitchella).

Peach Bell (see Campanula).

Pedicularis 31, 169

Pennisetum 100

Pentstemon 135, 1^0

Peony 130, 131, 133

Pepper, Wall (see Sedum).

Phalaris 101

Pheasant's Eye (see Dianthus and
.\donis).

Phlox 136. 137

Phyllostachys 99

Physostegia 139, I40

Picotee 78

Pincushion Flower (see Scabiosa).

Pinks (see Dianthus)

Pink, Moss (see Phlox).

Pink, Mullein (see Lychnis).

Pipsissewa (see Chimaphila)

162

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Page
IJfi, 141

IJ^2

.31, 169
.31, 143

lJt6
169

Platycodon

Pleurisy Root (see Asclepias).

Plumbago

Plume Poppy (see Bocconia).

Podophyllum

Polemonium

Polyantha (see Primula).

Polygonatum 31, 169

Polygonum I42, 144

Polypodium 29

Poppy, California Tree (see Romneya);
Poppy, Iceland (see Papaver)
Poppy Mallow (see Callirhoe).

Poppy, Matiliia 147, H8

Poppy, Oriental (see Papaver).
Poppy, Plume (see Bocconia).
Poppy, White Bush (see Romneva).

Potentilla 144

Primrose, Evening (see (Enothera).
Primrose (see Primula).

Primula 145,

Purple Rock Cress (see Aubrietia).

Pyrethrum 146,

Pyrola 31,

Queen of the Meadows (see Spiraea).
Ragged Robin, Double (see Lychnis).
Reed, Giant (see Arundo).
Rock Cress (see Arabis).
Rock Madwort (see Alyssum).
Rocket, Sweet (see Hesperis).

Romneya 147,

Rose Campion (see Lychnis).
Rose of Heaven (see Lychnis).
Rosemary (see Herbs).

Rudbeckia 149

Rue, Meadow (see Thalictrum).
Rush, Japanese (see Eulalia).
Sage (see Salvia).

Salvia 109, 150

Sanguinaria 31, 170

Sanguisorba 108

Saxifraga 31 . 170

Saxifrage, Early (see Saxifraga).

Scabiosa 151

Scarlet Lightning (see Lychnis).
Sea Bugloss (see Anchusa).
Sea Holly (see Eryngium).
Sea Pink (see Armeria).

Sedum 152, 153

Senna, American and Indian (see Cassia).
Shell Flower (see Chelone).
Shin Leaf (see Pyrola).
Shooting Star (see Dodecatheon),

Sisyrinchium 31, 170

Smilacina 31, 170

Snake Head (see Chelone).
Snakeroot, Button (see Liatris).
Snakeroot, Virginia (see Cimicifuga).
Snakeroot, White (see Eupatorium).
Sneezeweed (see Helenium).
Snow-in-Summer (see Cerastium).
Solomon's Seal, False (see Smilacina).
Solomon's Seal (see Polygonatum).
Southern Wood (see Artemisia).
Spanish Bayonet (see Yucca).
Speedwell (see Veronica).
Spiderwort (see Tradescantia).
Spiraea 154

Page
Spiraea, Blue (see Caryopteris).
Spring Beauty (see Claytonia).

Spurge Flax 75

Squirrel's Corn (see Dicentra).
Starwort, False (see Boltonia).
Star Grass (see Hypoxis) .
Stokes' Aster (see Stokesia).

Stokesia 155

Stonecrop (see Sedum).

St. John's Wort (see Hypericum).

Summer Fir (see Artemisia).

Summer Forget-me-not (see Anchusa) .

Summer Lilac (see Buddleia)

Sun, Autumn (see Rudbeckia).

Sundrops (see CEnothera).

Sunflower (see Helianthus) ; Orange (see

Heliopsis).
Susan, Black-eyed (see Rudbeckia).
Sweet Rocket (see Hesperis).
Sweet William (see Dianthus) ; Wild (see

Phlox).
Sweet Woodruff (see Asperula).
Tansy (see Herbs).
Tarragon (see Herbs).

Thalictrum 155

Thistle, Globe (see Echinops) ; Ivory

(see Eryngium)
Thimbles, Witches' (see Digitalis).
Thrift (see Armeria).
Thoroughwort (see Eupatorium).
Thyme (see Herbs).

Tiarella SO, 31, 170

Tickseed (see Coreopsis).
Toothwort (see Dentaria).

Tradescantia 31,170

Tree Celandine 59

Trillium 31, 170

Trollius 155, 156

Turtle Head (see Chelone).

Tussilaso 31, 170

Twin Leaf (see Jeffersonia).

Ulmaria 154

Uniola 101

Uvularia 31, 170

Valerian, Greek (see Polemonium).

Veronica lo'7

Vinca 31, 170

Viola 31, 170

Violet, Damask (see Hesperis).
Violet (see Viola).
Virgin's Bower (see Clematis).
Waldmeister (see Asperula).
Wall Cress (see Arabis).

Wall Cress, False 57

Wall Pepper (see Sedum).

Water Leaf (see Hydrophyllum).

Weed, Butterfly (see Asclepias).

Weed, Joe-Pye (see Eupatorium).

Weed, Knot (see Polygonum).

Weed, Sneeze (see Helenium).

Wild Indigo (see Baptisia).

Windfiower (see Anemone).

Wolfsbane (see Aconitum).

Wood Betony (see Pedicularis).

Wormwood (see Herbs and Artemisia).

Yarrow (see Achillea).

Yucca 158

TABULAR CULTURAL INDEX

163

TABULAR CULTURAL INDEX

(For Synonyms See Preceding Index of Plant Names)

Species or variety

Achillea Eupatorium. . . .
Achillea filipendulina. . . .
Achillea millefolium ro-

seum

Achillea Ptarmica

Achillea tomentosum

Aconitum bicolor

Aconitum Fischeri

Aconitum Lycoctonum. .

Aconitum Xapellus

Aconitum Wilsonii

Adiantum pedatum

Adlumia fungosa

Adonis amurensis

Adonis pyrenaica

Adonis vernalis

^gopodium Podagraria.

Agrostemma (see Lych-
nis)

Ajuga genevensis

Ajuga reptans

Althsa (see Hollyhock) .

Alyssum rostratum

Alyssum saxatile

Anchusa italica

Anchusa myosotidiflora. .
Anemone japonica

Anemone Pulsatilla

Anemone quinquefolia. . .
Anemonella thalictroides

Anthemis montana

Anthemis tinctoria

Aquilegia canadensis. . . .

Aquilegia chrysantha

Aquilegia ccerulea

Aquilegia flabellata

Aquilegia formosa

Aquilegia glandulosa. . . .

Aquilegia longissima

Aquilegia Skinneri

Aquilegia vulgaris

Arabis albida

Arabis alpina

Arissema triphyllum

Armeria cephalotes

Armeria Laucheana.

Armeria maritima

Arrhenatherum bulbo-

sum

Artemisia abrotanum.. . .
Artemisia lactiflora

Page

Height
in feet

4 to 5

IV,

1 to 1,^

122

112

3 to 5

2 to 3

l>^to2

1 to IH

1 to2

1 to IH

1 to VA

2 to 3

Flowering
Period

July-Sept.
July-Sept.

Summer
Summer
June-July
Juno-July

Oct.

June-July

June-Julv

Sept.

Summer

April-May

May

July or Aug.

May

June

April

June-July

Summer
Aug. to Oct.

April

Aug. to Sept.

April-May

May

May
May- June

May

April

April
May

May-Aug.
May- Aug.
May-Aug.

Aug.
Aug.-Oct.

Color

Yellow
Yellow

Pink

White

Yellow

White, blue

Bluish-violet

Yellow

Dark blue

Pale blue

Purplish
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow

White

Dull red, blue

white
Purplish blue

Yellow

Deep blue

Bright blue
White, pink

Violet

White

Creamy white

Golden yellow

Yellow, scarlet

Yellow

Blue and white

Lilac

Yellow and scarlet

Blue and white

Yellow

Greenish orange

Lilac, white

White

White
Purple, green

Bright pink

Pink

Leaves green and

white

Greenish white

Creamy white

Remarks

Same as A. filipendulina

The tallest Achillea

Pink variety of common
Yarrow

Double varieties best

Edging plant

Larkspur-like plant

Latest to bloom

Common yellow species

Larkspur-like plant

A tall species

Perhaps the most grace-
ful hardy fern

Dainty biennial climber

I Attractive foliage

I Do not transplant often

Excellent for stubborn
situations

Good under trees

Later than next species
Excellent border plant
One of the real blue flow-
ers of the garden
Good dwarf plant
Excellent Autumn flow-
ers
Seed heads attractive
A dainty native sort
A dainty native sort

I Good cut flower

Our common native
Long spurs
Long spurs
Short spurs

Spurs 33-^2 in. -6 in. long

One of the best early
Spring edging plants

The familiar Jack-in-
the-Pulpit

[Excellent edging plant

A grass for edging
Old-fashioned favorite
Bold perennial

1G4

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNL\LS

Tabular Cultural Index — Continued

Species or variety

Page

Height
in feet

Flowering
Period

Color

Remarks

Artemisia Purshiana

Aug.

White leaves

Artemisia saccrorum

Sept.-Oct.

White

Good annual; foliage
fine, fern-like

Artemisia stelleriana

Aug.

Silvery white
leiwes

Another old-fashioned ,
edging plant

Aruncus Sylvester

154

5 to 7

June-July

White

The tallest of the Spiraea's

Arundinaria auricoma. . .

Leaves green and
yellow

Arundinaria Fortunei —

Loaves green and
white

Hardy Bamboos

Arundinaria japonica

8 to 10

Leaves green

Arundinaria Simonii

Leaves green

Arundo Donax

Leaves green and

white

The tallest grass

Asarum canadense

-4

April

Purple

Leaves of most superb
texture

Asclepias tuberosa

July-Aug.

Orange

Very showy

Asperula odorata

April-May

White

Dainty border plant

Asphodelus luteus

June

Yellow

Deserves more attention

Aspidium marginale

A common woods shield
fern

Aspidium spinulosa

A fern with finely divided
fronds

Asplenium acrostichoides

An evergreen fern

Asplenium Filix-foemina

2 to 3

Fine foliage fern

Astilbe Arendsii

154

1^2 to 2

June-Aug.

Various

A superior group of

Spiraeas

Astilbe japonica

154

] 1 £

June-Aug.

White

The old favorite of the
florist

Aubrietia deltoidea

April-May

Purple

Good edging plant

Bambusa palmata

Leaves green

Hardy Bamboo

Baptisia australis

2V2 to 3

June-July

Dark blue

Pea-like flower

Baptisia tinctoria

June

Yellow

Bellis perennis

May

Pink- white

Excellent edging plant

for early Spring

Bocconia cordata

etos

July-Aug.

Greenish-pink

A bold, gray-leaved, tall
perennial

Boltonia asteroides

4 to 5

Aug.-Sept.

White

Resembles wild Aster

Boltonia latisquama nana

Aug.-Sept.

Pink

Like a dwarf wild Aster

Bruckenthalia spiculi-

102

H to ?4

June

Light pink

One of the heath-like

folia

plants

Buddleia variabilis

June-Oct.

Lilac

Good background plant
for perennial border

Callirhoe involucrata

1/2 to K

July-Sept.

Rosy crimson

Trailing mallow-like
plant

Calluna crispa

102
102

1 to Wi

1 to \\^

Aug.-Sept.
Aug.-Sept.

Pinkish lavender
Purple white

Calluna vulgaris

Scotch Heather

Caltha palustris

April

Yellow

A common native plant

Campanula carpatica

June-Oct.

Blue, white

of marshes
Excellent edging plant

Campanula Medium

June-July

Pink, rurple, white

Very large bells

Campanula persicifolia...

June-July

Blue, white

Graceful border plant

Campanula pyramidalis .

4 to 6

Sept.

Blue

Tallest Bellflower

Campanula rotundifolia .

June-Aug.

Blue

Dainty native plant

Camptosorus rhizophyl-

A very interesting fern

lus

which creeps over the

rocks

Caryopteris Mastacan-

thus

65
67

3 to 4

4 to 5

Sept.-Oct.
Aug.-Sept.

Lavender blue
Yellow

Protect in Winter

Cassia marilandica

Massive perennial with ^

pea-like flowers 4

Ca ulophyllum t h a 1 i c -

troides

1 to 3

April- May

Greenish yellow

Fruits blue J

TABULAR CULTURAL INDEX

165

Tabular Cultural Index — Continued

Species or variety

Centaurea babylonica.
Centaurea Cineraria . .

Centaurea dea'.bata. . . .
Centaurea gymnocarpa.

Centaurea macrocephala.
Centaurea montana. .
Cerastium arvense. . . .
Cerastium Biebersteinii

Cerastium tomentosum...

Ceratostigma (see Plum

bago)

Chelone glabra

Chelone Lyonii

Chimaphila umbellata. .
Chrysanthemum, hardy

Cimicifuga dahurica..
Cimicifuga racemosa .
Cimicifuga simplex. . .
Claytonia virginica. ..
Clematis Davidiana. .

Clematis heracleaefolij
Clematis recta

Page

Clintonia borealis

Conoclinium (see Eupa-

torium)

Convallaria majalis

lanceolata

Coreopsis

grandifiora

Coreopsis rosea

Coreopsis verticillata. . .

Cypripedium acaule

Cypripedium pubescens.
Daphne Cneorum

Daphne Mezereum..
Delphinium hybrids.

Dentaria diphylla

Dianthus barbatus

Dianthus chinensis Hed
dewigii

Dianthus deltoides

Dianthus latifolius atro-

cocinneum

Dianthus plumarus

Dicentra canadensis.
Dicentra cuccularia. .
Dicentra chrysantha.
Dicentra eximia

142

31
70

71
71
71
31

72
72

Dicentra spectabiiis. . . .
Dicksonia punctilobula.

Height
in feet

Flowering
Period

2
2

H to H

2 to 3

4 to 8
2 to 3

Summer

July-Sept.
Summer

July-Aug.
May-Sept.
June-July
June-July

June

Aug.-Sept.
Aug.-Sept.
June-Aug.
Sept.-Nov.

Sept.

July-Aug.

Oct.

April

Aug.-Sept.

.\ug.-Sept.
Summer

May- June

Color

May

June-Aug.
Aug.-Sept.
July-Aug.
April-May
April-May
April-Oct.

Feb.-April

June-July

April
May

May

May-Oct.
May

April
April
April
May

April-June

Yellow
White leaves

Rose
White leaves

Yellow

Blue, white

White

Rose

Flesh color

Various

White
White
White
Pinkish lavender
Blue

Pale blue
White

Greenish-yellow

Remarks

White

Yello w

Rosy pink

Yellow

Pink

Yellow

Pink

Lilac purple
Violet, purple,
orange, white

White
Various

Various

Rosy pink, white

Crimson
Various

White

White, yellow

Yellow

Pink

Rose

Commonly called Dusty
Miller

Finer leaves than Cen-
taurea Cineraria

Tall, large flowered sort

Good border plant

Green leaf form

Larger flowers than next
species

Excellent gray-foliaged
edging plant

Good for wet places
Good for wet places
Evergreen leaves
See Daisy for other spe-
cies

All suited to moist,
shady places

.\ dainty native flower
Whorls of bell-shaped
flowers

Large masses of flowers

and foliage
A wild flower

The sweet Lily of the
Valley

One of the standard gar-
den perennials

A creeping Coreopsis

.\ small flowered sort

ITwo showy Lady Slip-

J per Orchids

A most dainty, fragrant
flower

One of earliest shrubs of
the garden

Some of the most strik-
ing garden flowers

A common wild flower

Border plant, ages old

Resembles the annual

China Pink
A dainty rock plant

Like a hardy Carnation
Indespensable edging

plant
I Dainty native plants

Now used as a substitute
for D. spectabiiis

One of the old-fashioned
favorites

A good hardy fern

166 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENMALS

Tabular Cultural Index — Continued

Species or variety

Page

Height
in feet

Flowering
Period

Color

Remarks

Dictamnus albus

Digitalis grandiflora

83
31

82
82
82
82

85
85
99

87
87

87
87
100
102
102
88
88
88
89
89
S9
89

31
100
100

90
90
90

100
154
154

80
93
93
93

95
95
95

2 to 3
3

3 to 5

1 to lU

2
ItolJ^

1 to m

1.4

3 to 4

5 to 7
3

1
1

5 to 10^

H
1 to VA
2
2
1
3
4

5 to 7

2 to 3

4 to 10
4 to 5

1>2'

2y2

VA
2

Vi
M to 1,4
?4 to VA

June-July

June-July
April-May

March-April
June
June
June

July-Oct.

Summer
July-Sept.
July-Aug.

April- May
May

May

April-May

Aug.
July-Aug.
July-Aug.
July-Aug.
June-Sept.
June-Spet.
June-Sept.
June-Sept.-

April

Aug.-Sept.

Aug.-Sept.
Aug.-Sept.
Aug.-Sept.

June-Aug.
June-July

July
June
July

July-Aug.
Summer

May
Aug.-Sept.
Aug.-Sept.

Purple, white

Yellow

Grayish, marked

yellow

Purple to white

Magenta-pink

Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow

Rosy purple

Pink
Steel blue
White
Leaves bluish
green
Yellow
White tinged pur-
ple

Yellow
White

Pink

Rosy purple

Orancre

Purple

Amethyst

Blue

Yellow, light pink

Blue

White
Purple
White

Red to pink
White

Blue
White
Lilac

Purple
Various

Blue
Blue
Blue

One of the old garden

plants
The interesting yellow

Foxglove
A strange tvpe of Fox-

Digitalis purpurea

Dodecatheon Media

Doronicum austriacum. .
Doronicum caucasicum. .

Doronicum Clusii

Doronicum plantagineum

Echinacea purpurea

Echinocactus Simpsonii. .

glove
The favorite Foxglove
A favorite Midwest na-
tive flower

Some of the earliest
Daisy-like flowers

Strong growing peren-
nial for poor soil
A globular shaped Cactus

Thistle-like flowers

Echinops sphaerocephalus

Epimedium alpinum

Epimedium macranthum

Epimedium Musschia-
num

Attractive grass

Rock plants of unusual
keeping quality

Epimedium niveum

Erianthus Ravennae

A good specimen grass
Heathers of great
beauty

Erigeron aurantiacus

Erigeron glabellum

Erigeron speciosus

Eryngium amethystinum
Eryngium maritimum. . .
Eryngium Oliverianum..

Eryngium planum

Erythronium american-
um . ...

Aster-like flowers

■Prickly plants

Spotted leaves; showy
wild flower

Eulalia gracillima

Eulalia japonica

Eupatorium ccelestinum..

Eupatorium perfoliatum.
Eupatorium purpureum.
Eupatorium urticsfolium

Foliage variegated

Like the annual Ager-
atum

lExcellent for wet places
J in a wild garden

Dwarf, gray-leaved grass

Filipendula purpurea

Filipendula Ulmaria

Fraxinella (see Dictam-

A gracetul, feathery sort
Fern-like leaves and
dainty flowers

Funkia ccerulea

Funkia grandiflora

Funkia Sieboldiana

Funkia undulata varie-

Lily-like, shade loving
plants

Gaillardia aristata

Gentiana acaulis

Gentiana Andrewsii

Gentiana crinita

Glorious, Daisy-like flow-
ers

The pride of the con-
noisseur

TABULAR CULTURAL LNDEX 167

Tabular Cultural Index — Continued

^pecies or variety

Geranium maculatum. . ,
Geranium Robertianum
Geranium sanguineum..

Geum coccineum

Geum montanum

Gnaphalium (see Leon-

topodium)

Gynerium argenteum —

Gypsophila acutifolia.. .
Gypsophila cerastioides.
Gypsophila paniculata..
Gypsophila repens

Helenium autumnale. . . .

Helenium Hoopesii

Helenium pumilum

Helianthus decapetalus. .
Helianthus Maximilianii.

Helianthus mollis

Helianthus orgyalis

Helianthus scaberrimus..

Heliopsis Pitcheriana

Hemerocallis Dumortieri.

Hemerocallis flava

Hemerocallis fulva

Hemerocallis Midden-

dorfii

Hemerocallis Thunbergii.
Hepatica acutiloba and

triloba

Hesperis matronalis. .

Heuchera americana..
Heuchera sanguinea. .
Hibiscus Moscheutos.
Hibiscus oculiroseus. .
Hosta (see Funkia)...
Houstonia ccerulea. . .
Hydrophyllum

Hypericum calycinum. . .
Hypericum Moserianum

Hypoxis hirsuta

Iberis gibraltarica. .
Iberis sempervirens.

Iris barbata

Iris cristata

Iris interregna ,

Iris laevigata . . . .
Iris pseudacorus.

Iris pumila

Iris sibirica

Iris verna

Iris versicolor...

Jeffersonia diphylla.
Lastrea Filix-mas...

Height

Page

in feet

9(\

1 to m

100

5 to 7

101

2 to 3

101

2 to 3

JOl

103

2>^

103

214

104

6 to 8

104

4 to 5

104

8 to 10

104

106

2 to 3

106

110

111

4 to 5

111

4 to 5

^'^

115

116

1 to IM

116

2 A

116

H to 1

Flowering
Period

April-Aug.
.Tune-Oct.
May-July

June-July
Summer

July-Aug.
June-July
July-Aug.
June-July

July -Sept.

May
Aug.-Scpt.

Sept.
Sept.-Oct.
July-Aug.

Sept.
Aug.-Sept,
June-Sept.
May-June
May-June
May-June

May-June
June-July

April

June-Sept.

May
May- July
Aug.-Sept.
Aug.-Sept.

April- May
May

July-.\ug.
J une-July

April-July

April- June
April-June

May

April

Early May

Late May

May

April
Late May

April

May

April

Lavender
Magenta
Purple

Scarlet
Orange

Silvery plumes

White

Pinkish white

White

Various
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Orange
Lemon
Orange

Orange

Lemon
Lavender, pink,

white
White, lavender

White
Crimson to white

Various
White, crimson eyi

Light blue
White

Gold
Gold

Yellow

White
White

Various

Light blue

Various

Virions

Yellow

Various

Purple, white

Blue

White

Remarks

iWild sorts in moist
/ woods

A compact, floriferous
species

Bright dwarf plants

This Pampas grass is
not hardy

The daintiest and most
graceful perennial

Superior to, but re-
sembling Sunflowers

Strong, growing peren-
nials which shift for
themselves

Much like Helianthus

Day Lilies succeeding
anywhere

The common Hepaticas
Somewhat resembles
Phlox

1 Dainty edging or rock
plants
Flowers 6 in. or more

Dainty wild flower
A familiar plant of the
woods
Neat flowers with a tuft
of stamens in the
center
A wild flower

I These hardy Candytufts
[ are unrivaled for deg-
I ing
The popular German liis

Intermediate in

and height
Japanese Iris, flat flowers
Plant in water
The dainty edging plant
Grows nicely in moist soil

Can be planted in water

Interesting wild flower

An evergreen fern

168 A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Tabular Cultural Index — Continued

Species or variety

Lavandula spica

Lavandula vera

Leontopodium alpinum. .

Leontopodium sibiricum
Leptandra (see Veronica) ,

Liatris pycnostachya

Liatris scariosa

Liatris spicata

Linum flavum

Linum perenne

Lobelia cardinalis

Lobelia syphilitica

Lupinus perennis

Lupinus polyphyllus —

Page

Lychnis chalcedonica. . .

Lychnis coronaria

Lychnis Flos-cuculi. . . .

Lychnis Haageana

Lychnis Viscaria

Lygodium palmatum. . .

Lysimachia clethroides..

Lysimachia Nummularia.

Lysimachia punctata. . . .
Lythrum Salicaria

Menziesia polifolia. .
Mertensia virginica.

Miscanthus (see Eulalia)
Mitchella repens

Mitella diphylla. . .
Monarda didyma. .

Myosotis alpestris.

Myosotis palustris .

Nepeta glecoma. . .

CEnothera fruticosa

CEnothera missouriensis.

Oenothera speciosa

Opuntia arenaria

Opuntia Camanchica. . .
Opuntia phaeacantha. . .

Opuntia polyantha

Opuntia Rafinesquii. . . .

Opuntia vulgaris

Osmunda cinnamomea. .

Osmunda regalis

Paeonia albiflora.
Paeonia Moutan,

118
118

87
157
118
118
118
119
119
120
120
121
121

122
122
122
122
122
92

123

123
123

102
124

100
31

31
125

125
125
125
63
63
63
63
63

91
32.91

130

Height
in feet

Flowering
Period

Yi to y^

July-Aug.

Ju'y-Aug.

Sept.

K to M

Sept.

4 to 5
3 to 4
2 to 3

■1^

1 to 2
lYi to 3

July-Au<?.
Aug.-Sept.
Aug.-Sept.
May-Sept.
May-Sept.
July-Sept.
July-Sept.
May-June
June-Aug.

2 to 3

13/2
l}-^to2

1 to 4

June-Aug.
June-Aug.

May
July-Aug.

June

July-Sept.

June-Sept.

2H
4 to 6

June-Aug.
July-Aug.

y2
2

July-Sept.
April

May-June

K2 to u
2 to 3

May
June-Aug.

May-Aug.

April-Aug.

1 to 2H

1 to 2

3 to 5

2 to3

2 to 3
4

Color

May-Sept.

June-Aug.
Summer
Summer
Summer
Summer
Summer
Summer

June
Mav

Light blue
Blue
White

White

Rosy purple
Rosy purple
Rosy purple

Yellow-
Blue, white
Cardinal

Blue

Violet blue

Various

Scarlet

Crimson

Rose

Red orange

Rose, white

White

Yellow

Yellow
Reddish purple

Rose, whitf
Blue

White

Crimson, purple,

pink

Blue

Yellow
Yellow
White
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Tinged with red
Yellow

Remarks

Various
Various

Fragrant, rather tender
perennials
The familiar Edelweiss
A larger flowered Edel-
weiss

Dense spikes and grass-
like foliage

Dainty, satiny flowers

Native plants for damp
situations
A wild flower
Tall spires of pea-like
flowers

1 Flowers generally re-
sembling Pinks

This is the charming
climbing fern

A graceful perennial re-
sembling the shrubby
Clethra

A creeping plant for
shady places

Showy flowers in whorls

A tall perennial for wet
places

A bell flowered Heather

One of the daintiest of

Spring wild flowers

Trailing; edible red ber-
ries
A wild flower

A striking, scarlet flower
Best for ordinary garden

soil
For wet ground

Wild flower, sometimes be-
coming a weed: trailing

Fragrant flowers, open-
ing in the evening

•Hardy Cacti

A tall fern of unusual

beauty
Especially valuable in

wet soil

Everybody's flower
The shrubby Peony

TABULAR CULTURAL INDEX

169

Tabular Cultural Index — Continued

Species or variety

Page

Heifrht
in feet

Flowering
Period

Color

Remarks

Paeonia ofl5cinalis

130

2 to 2I2

Late May

Generally red

The old fashioned Piney

Pseonia tenuifolia

130

May
April-June

Variousi

Finely cut leaves

Papaver nudicaule

128

Various

A dainty edging plant

Papaver orientale

128

2 to 3

June- July

Scarlet, salmon

The most brilliant Poppy

Pedicularis canadensis. . .

1 to IH

May-June

Greenish-yellow,
purlish-red

A wild flower

Pennisetum japonicum..
Pentstemon barbatus

100

3 to 4

Mahogany plumes

A graceful grass

Torreyi

135
135

23 2

June
June-July

Scarlet
White, purple

Brilliant, dainty flowers

Pentstemon Digitalis....

Showy flowers, somewhat

like a Snapdragon

Pentstemon glo.xinioides.

135

2 to 3

July-Sept.

Various

The handsomest of all;
rather tender

Phlox amoena

136
136
136

2 to 4
1

June
June
May

Rose
Various
Lavender

One of the dwarf Phloxes

Phlox decussata

The standard hardy Phlox

Phlox divaricata

Good for wild gardens

Phlox subulata

136

April-May

Rosy-purple

A supreme rock and edg-

Phlox suffruticosa

136

June

Various

ing plant
The early type of hardy
Phlox

Physostegia virginiana . .

139

3 to3V2

June-Sept.

Pink, white

Erect spikes, good for
cutting

Phalaris arundinacea

101

Leaves variegated

The commonest ribbon

Phyllostachyo aurea

Stems yellow

grass
A tall growing bamboo

Platycodon grandiflorum

141

21-7

J'lly-Sept.

Blue, white

Large flowers, of great
beauty

Platycodon Mariesii

141

July-Sept.

Blue, white

Phi mbago Larpentae

142

Aug.-Oct.

Deep blue

Excellent Fall edging

plant
An old favorite, native

Podophyllum peltatum. .

?i to 1

A ^^^^ ,

White

Polemonium caeruleum...

Polemonium humile

Polemonium reptans

143
143
143

April-July
May- June
May- June

Blue, white

Light blue

Blue

Graceful plants with
I flowers of character

Polygonatum biflorum.. .

1 to 3

May

Greenish white

A native plant

Polygonum affne

144

Htoi},,

Sept.

Rosy red

Polygonum ampexicaule.

144

2 to 3

Sept .-Oct.

Rosy red

[Very free growing

Polygonum sachalinense.

144

9 to 12

Aug.-Sept.

Greenish white

perennials

Polygonum Sieboldii

114

132

Aug. -Sept.

White

Polypodium vulgare

A fern commonly seen
on steep ledges

Potentilla atrosanguinea.

144

v/>

June- Aug.

Various

Showy flowers upon
Strawberry-like plants

Primula (Cowslip)

145

•2 to 3,4

^. ^Y

Various

\Favorite old edging

Primula japonica

145

32 to h

May- J line

Crimson, white

/ plants

Pyrethrum roseum

146

2 to 3

May-July

Various

Exceedingly bright Dai-
sies

Pyrola americana

I2 to h

June-July

White

Leaves round

Pyrola elliptica

'2 to H

June- July

White

Leaves elliptical

Romneya Coulteri

147

June-Oct.

White

Most extraordinary
white, silken flowers

Rudbeckia laciniata

(Golden Glow)

149

5 to 6

July-Sept.

Yellow

Rudbeckia maxima

149

6 to 8

Aug.-Sept.

Yellow

These flowers are char-

Rudbeckia Newmannii...

149

Aug.-Sept.

Orange

\ acterized by their

Rudbeckia nitida

140

2 to 3

July-Sept.

Yellow

high, cone-like centers

Rudbeckia subtomentosa

149

July-Sept.

Yellow

Rudbeckia triloba

149

Aug.-Sept.

Yellow

Salvia a^urea grandiflora.

150

3 to 4

Aug.-Oct.

Light blue

Salvia farinacea

150
150

3 to 4

23^^

Aug.-Oct.
July-Aug.

Light blue
Deep blue

The hardy Sages are

Salvia nemorosa

!• all interesting

Salvia patens

150
1.50

■T to6

July-Oct.
July-Oct.

Deep blue
Light blue

Salvia uliginosa

170

A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNIALS

Tabular Cultural Index — Continued

Species or variety

Page

31
151
151
151
152
152
152
152
152
152
152
152
152

31
31

154
155

155

155
155
155

155
155
31

31
156
31

154
101

157

157
157
157

157
157
31
31

.158

Height
in feet

Flowering
Period

Color

Remarks

Sanguinaria candensis. . .

Saxifraga virginiensis. . .

Scabiosa caueasica

Scabiosa japonica

Scabiosa ochroleuca

Sedum acre

14
1 V^ to 2
lV^to2

iy2

Trailing

Trailing
Trailing
H
l}4
Trailing
Trailing

1
lto3

3
4 to 5

1 to 2

4
A

lto3

1
2

3 to 5

Trailing

Mar.-April

April-May
June-Sept.
June-Sept.
June-Sept.
July-Aug.
July-A\ig.
July-Aug.
July-Aug.
July-Aug.

Sept.
Aug.-Sept.
July-Aug.
July-Aug.

June-July
May

July-Oct.

June- July

June
July-Sept.
April-May

Aug.-Sept.
June-July
April-May

May-Aug.

May
May-Aug.
April -May

April-May

July-Aug.

July-Sept.

May-June

June

May-June

July

April
April-May

June

White

Lavender

Yellow

White

Yellow

Pink

Rose

Purplish-pink

White

Blue
White

Lavender, purple,
rose, white

Yellow

White

Purplish and

greenish

Rose purple

Golden yellow

White

Purplish blue

White, red
Yellow
Yellow

Yellow

Amethyst blue

Violet blue
Violet
Blue

Violet
White
Purple
White, purple,
yellow

White

The old favorite Blood-
root
A native rock plant
These long stemmed
flowers are good for
cutting

Sedum kamtschaticum....

Sedum reflexum

Sedum sexangulare

Sedum Sieboldii

Interesting rock plants,
but many sorts are
good for the border

Sedum spectabile

Sedum stoloniferum

Sedum ternatum

Sisyrinchium angustifo-
lium ■ , . , , , , . ,

The Blue-eyed Grass

Smilacina racemosa

Spiraea (see Filipendula,

Aruncus and Astilbe).

Stokesia Isevis

A wild plant
Resembles a Cornflower

Thalictrum adiantifolium

Thalictrum aquilegifoli-

and an Aster

Thalictrum Cornutii

Thalictrum dioicum

Thalictrum dipterocar-
pum

Feathery flowers un-
• excelled for graceful
effect

Thalictrum glaucum

Tiarella cordifolia

Tradescantia virginica. . .

Trillium (various)

Trollius europseus

Tussilaga Farfara

Ulmaria (see Filipendula)

A native plant with fuzzy

flowers
A native plant for the

waterside
Our favorite wild flowers
A glorified Buttercup
Sometimes a weed

Flat, drooping clusters

Uvularia grandiflora

Veronica incana

Veronica longifolia sub-
sessilis

of spikelets make this
grass attractive
A wild flower

Whitish leaves

The showiest

A trailing form

Veronica spicata

Veronica Teucrium ru-

An early, upright form

Veronica virginica

A tall white

A native ground cover

Viola (various)

Favorite Violets of va-

Yucca filamentosa

rious sorts

Coarse evergreen with
graceful flowers

PRACTICAL
LANDSCAPE
GARDENING

By ROBERT B. CRIDLAND, Landscape Architect

The author freely gave of his great knowl-
edge when he wrote this splendid book. On
the theory that "every house in a community
should contribute toward the enjoyment of
the inhabitants thereof, in some little artistic
excellence," the w-riter goes about showing
how to place the house, grade the landscape
and plan and plant intelligently. No pages
are wasted in useless talk.

Description of Chapter Illustrations

1 — ^The Importance of All Careful
Planning:. — Six halftone illustrations show-
ing completed results.

2 — Locating the House. — Seven line
drawings of studies of house locations on
small lots and one showing best exposure
for the house in its relation to the sun.

3 — Arrangements of Walks, Drives
and Entrances. — Twelve illustrations of
approaches or entrances, ten driveways
and three walks.

4 — Construction of Walks and Drives.
— Twenty-five teaching illustrations of
cement, macadam, flagstone, slate and
other walks, cement approaches and gutters,
bituminous and cement driveways, etc.

5 — Lawns and Their Grading, Con-
struction and Upkeep. — Nine line cuts
showing correct grading under varying
conditions, and three halftone illustrations
of charming lawn views properly treated.

6 — Ornamental Planting of Trees and
Shrubs. — Twenty-four fine halftones illus-
trating suitable backgrounds, base plant-
ings, specimen trees for the lawn, boundary

plantings, border plantings, etc., together
with numerous line cuts showing how to
plant and move trees, lay out orna-
mental vegetable garden, lawn group-
ings, etc.

7 — The Flower Garden. — Seventeen
halftones of properly laid out gardens with
several planting plans and keys thereto.

8 — Architectural Features. — Eight
halftones showing bird bath, fountains and
pools, garden seats, pergolas and other
features, together with plans for the con-
struction of garden houses, entrances,
pergolas, etc.

9 — Hardy Borders and Rose Gardens.
— Fifteen attractive halftones and plans of
borders and Rose gardens.

10 — Wild Gardens and Rock Gar-
dens.— Seven illustrations, together with
plan sho^sing how to build a dry retaining
wall for planting.

11 — Planting Plans. — Nineteen plans
showing a variety of artistic arrangements
possible on small properties. These plans
are keyed and accompanied by planting lists
which have been tested in actual practice.

PRACTICAL LANDSCAPE GARDENING islan entirely different
book from any landscape treatise previously written, because it fits into
your wants, considers practicability equally with the laws of art and
beauty, and covers every detail. It contains 91 photographic illustra-
tions, 67 sketches and 33 plans, 19 of which are planting plans accom-
panied by planting keys. 276 pages, size 6x8 in.

A. T. DE U MARE CO. Inc. 438 to 448 West 37th St. NEW YORK

GARDEN GUIDE

THE AMATEUR GARDENERS' HANDBOOK

A Twelve Months' Gardening Paper
All Under One Cover

The very book j'ou have been looking for all these years.
Absolutely nothing in print to compare with its fund of
diverse information.

Throughout its pages expert veteran gardeners tell the
amateur in remarkably simple, easily understood language,
how to plan, plant and maintain the home grounds, sub-
urban garden, or city lot ; how to grow good vegetables
and fruit ; how^ to raise beautiful flowers ; how to take care
of lawns, porch plants, window boxes, etc. The book
gives the How, the When, and the Where — from the pur-
chase of the proper tools to reaping the harvest, and 1001
other points. It is of upstanding value to every man or
woman interested in gardening, regardless of the amount
of land at their disposal.

Its chapters cover :

Planning the Home Grounds The Vegetable Garden

Lawns and Grass Plots Fertilizers

Hedges and Fences Transplanting

Trees and Shrubs Pruning of Plants

The Rose Garden Enemies of Plants

Hardy Perennials for the Diseases of Plants

Permanent Garden Lawn and Garden Weeds

Annuals and Biennials Winter Protection

Bulbs and Tuberous-rooted Plant Propagation

Plants Greenhouses, Hotbeds and
Hardy Garden Ferns Frames

The Rock Garden Garden Tools

Garden Furniture Calendar of Garden Opera-
Window Boxes and Porch tions for the Year

Plants Animal Life in the Garden

Fruit for the Small Garden Birds in the Garden

Bungalow or Mid-Summer Fruits and Vegetables for

Gardening Winter

The Garden Guide consists of 384 pages ana numerous
illustrations, these selected not for their picturesqueness, but
as teaching examples, there being a reason for each and
every picture presented. A charming cover in four colors
depicts a flower garden and lawn view any garden lover
would be proud of.

A. I • Ll6 LSi iVl2ir6 \yO» InC* NEW YORK, N. Y.

Practical Plant Propagation

An Exposition of the Art and Science of

Increasing Plants as Practised by the

Nurseryman, Florist and Gardener

By Alfred C. Hottes

Second Edition,
greatly enlarged

Appeals to every one
who has to do with seeds
and plants, whether ama-
teur or professional.

A book of this sort has
never been of more inter-
est to the florist and nur-
seryman than at present,
as they can no longer look
to Europe for their stock
of plants.

The text is brief and to
the point. No lengthy dis-
cussions, but facts are
tersely stated, so that the
busy propagator may get
the point quickly and re-
turn to the propagation of
his plants.
All amateurs have an intense desire to propagate those plants
which they admire. In this book is told in simple terms how to
graft fruit trees, make cuttings and layers, and sow the seeds
which are often difficult to germinate.

The revised edition is valuable because it includes as added
features a thorough discussion of the propagation of conifers, the
late work of Dr. Griffiths in raising Easter Lilies from seed, the
sowing of vegetable seeds for greenhouse culture, notes on prop-
agation of Ericas, palms, Araucarias and many of the excluded
plants, besides many additions to the already comprehensive
notes on the propagation of shrubs and trees. It makes clearer
a thousand little points which the old edition touched upon.

Profusely illustrated with halftones and line cuts. Prac-
tically every one of the line cuts has been drawn specially
for this work.

A. T. De La Mare Co. Inc.

438 to 448 West 37th Street
New York, N. Y.

■^ -^ -.^ -.■

^ A A A A <t

BOOKS

for the

garden. Home grounds
and Farm

SPECIALLY SELECTED TO MEET
THE NEEDS OF ALL OWNING
OR HOPING TO OWN HOMES
IN THE COUNTRY OR SUBURBS

Architecture in the Country — Houses, Bungalows, Barns,
Garages, Garden Architecture.

The Garden — Flowers, Trees, Shrubs, Fruits, Vegetables,
etc.

Landscape Gardening and Home Ground Surroundings.

Agriculture, Farm and Domestic Animals, Poultry, Dairy-
ing and Dairy Products.

Fish, Frogs, Turtles, Snakes.

Bees, Birds, Butterflies, Insects.

Cultivation of Plants under Glass and in the Open.

Soils, Fertilizers, Plant Diseases and Remedies, Insect
Pests.

Indoor Games and Outdoor Sports, Boats, Autos and
Airplanes, Camping.

Fiction Pertaining to Nature.

^escriptvve catalog, listing the best books published in
oAmerica on above subjects can be obtained from

A. T. DE LA MARE COMPANY, Inc.

438 to 448 West 37th St., NEW YORK, N. Y.

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