Historic, Archive Document
Do not assume content reflects current
scientific knowledge, policies, or practices.
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BULBS FOR FALL PLANTING _
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The Amaryllis, Iris, Lily, Arum, Orchid, Billbergias and Other Families.
Special Articles: United We Stand—a war message to flower lovers; How
to Grow Amaryllis; General Culture Directions; Acid and Alkaline Soils; Bulbs
for Window Gardens; Culture Directions for All Bulbs.
FALL 1942
CECIL HOUDYSHEL
1412 Third St. ieee La Verne, Californie
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UNITED WE STAND
Dear Floral Friends:
I like to assume that all flower lovers are friends and our customers have
nearly all had this attitude. Your friendly letters are much appreciated even
though I can only answer all in one letter in each catalog.
I write to you usually about human foibles, health, happiness, education,
events, flowers, or cabbages and kings. I am interested in you, your happiness
and welfare. The uppermost interest right now for all of us is Victory, and
how we can do our part.
Every American must ask himself this question: ‘‘How can I best con-
tribute to Victory?’’ I have asked it of myself. I tried to volunteer in 1917
and was told that I was too old. Probably 25 years has not changed their
viewpoint, the Army would not want me. Nor would the Defense Industries.
My former profession, Education, prefers youth. But I have a talent that
America profoundly needs, the ability to grow bulbs and flowers, help others to
grow them.
Thus I can contribute to morale. This effort offers great opportunity to
many and varied enterprises, from Churches, Schools, Libraries to Beauty Par-
lors and Florists. The work they accomplish contributes to Victory because it
strengthens our spiritual and mental nature and gives us self confidence.
America needs you. How can you best serve? Apparently not enough of
us are doing our utmost. Many assume carelessly that America always has
won, always will. Many are concerned with questions of personal interest.
How can I earn more money? How can I get the most out of this situation?
Are America and her allies bound to win? To answer this, review the
answers to the following. Are we winning now? Are our armies advancing or
retreating? Do victorious armies constantly retreat?
We know that the armies of the United Nations lack nothing in courage
and ability. We have vastly greater resources of man power, industrial ca-
pacity and materials. What we lack are ships, planes, bombers, tanks and the
things required for mechanized warfare.
Our Allies are producing the limit of their capacity. The vital factor, the
place where victory or defeat is to be decided is in American Industry.
When capital and labor make sacrifices, not equal to those of the soldier,
but appropriate to them, Victory will be assured.
We all need to make the supreme effort of our lives, now, not next week.
To do that we must also rest and relax. One cannot merely eat, sleep and
work. One must also have mental and spiritual rejuvenation. One of the im-
portant sources for this is in your garden, with your flowers.
Your garden will satisfy your craving for beauty. It will replace many of
the pleasures that are now somewhat restricted since we must travel less. I
suggest you might use a little imagination as Mrs. Houdyshel does. When in
need of a brief rest, she says, ‘I am going for a little trip to our canyon re-
treat.’’ Her ‘‘retreat’’ is under a large avocado tree shut off from the house,
the street and the rest of the ranch by tall gingers from India and by other
large trees all around. There are lush Haemanthus from S. Africa, terrestial
orchids from China and Brazil, Billbergias from S. America and Hawaii and
many others close by. It is not so much like a California Canyon retreat except
for the cool deep shade. One could call it a trip around the world because few
countries are not represented in our garden.
In order that you may have the best garden success, I have rewritten the
culture advice in this catalog and made it much more explicit and complete. I
have added several pages to the catalog and omitted all the cuts prepared for
this issue.
This advice is based on a lifetime experience in growing bulbs, not on
reading knowledge. No other catalog gives as much culture information.
I trust you will work hard, have a wonderful garden and buy all the bonds
you can possibly buy.
Yours for Victory,
CECIL HOUDYSHEL
TERMS AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR ORDERING
Read the following carefully. It will avoid delay or misunderstanding.
Sales Tax. California customers add 3% for state sales tax.
Order Early. Late planting results in less satisfaction with most bulbs.
Remit with order, by check or M.O. Currency or coins are acceptable but
we are not responsible if lost. Stamps reluctantly accepted in small amounts
but customer must add 6% to amount remitted.
C.O.D. Orders require more labor to fill. Cost you 25c¢ up in P.O. fees.
Avoid if possible. On the average we lose money on C.O.D. orders.
Postage prepaid on orders of $1.00 or over. Under $1.00, add 10c for
postage and wrapping. Insurance 5c extra.
Prices given are for one bulb unless otherwise stated. A dozen costs ten
times the price of one. Six bulbs are sold at the dozen rate. The 100 rate, if
not given, is 70 times the cost of one, but no less than 100 will be sold at the
100 rate. For 50 bulbs apply the price of 4 dozen.
Wholesale. Dealers send for our Wholesale Bulletin.- Use your business
stationery or otherwise identify yourself as a bonafide dealer.
Garden Clubs, who pool their orders for collective buying in quantity, send
for our Garden Club Bulletin. We give you wholesale prices and discounts on
a “‘transportation prepaid”’ basis. This Garden Club Bulletin is available only
to the official Purchasing Agent of actually organized Garden Clubs but not to
individuals, even though Garden Club members.
Foreign Orders. Postage is prepaid if no greater than to our 8th zone.
Best to remit a little extra. If too much, we send extra bulbs.
Errors. Our packers make a few, not many. We want to correct them.
Notify us at once, in case of shortage or error. Unpack your order as soon as
received. Don’t wait two weeks, then tell us the bulbs were mouldy.
Substitution. If out of a variety, we usually substitute one as near like it
as possible, as good or better and of equal or greater value. If you do not
approve this, say, ‘‘no substitution.”’
Guarantee. Our bulbs are true to name, and healthy. We do not, however,
accept any responsibility for their performance since we cannot control the
conditions of their growth. If, in your opinion, our bulbs are not up to our
specifications, please notify us at once when you receive them. But do not
return them until we explain. One of our customers last year returned Dwarf
Callas because they were small.
Culture directions are not sent with bulbs as all necessary information is
given in this catalog.
Catalogs. Spring Catalog is mailed Jan. 15. Fall Catalog Aug. 15. Iris
Price List, sent on request only, at any time. If no orders are reecived for two
years, names are dropped from our mailing list.
Our catalogs are inexpensive. Naturally the customer pays for his own
catalog and for those who do not buy. We make ours as inexpensive as pos-
sible, thus adding little to the cost of selling. What we save in space required
for pictures, fancy type, order sheet, etc., can be used for more complete in-
structions in the growing of bulbs. Forty-four years of growing bulbs, over
twenty-five as commercial growers (not merely selling them, but actually
growing them), should make our culture advice valuable.
Correspondence. Your letters and reports on growing afford us much
pleasure and profit. One person could not answer all. We ask you to under-
stand that this is the reason we do not reply individually if it can be avoided.
Many ask questions that the catalog answers. Read our Personal Letter.
Identifying Bulbs. We try to identify bulbs. We can often do this from
the flowers and leaves, tho it is better to include a bulb. Sometimes a bulb
must be grown on. If so, we label it and inform you when it flowers or is
identified. The service is gratis. We cannot undertake, however, to identify
horticultural varieties of lris, Gladiolus, etc.
Exchanges. We will buy or exchange for your surplus bulbs that we can
use. Inquire or make offer before sending bulbs.
General Culture Directions
The best all around soil for bulbs is a rich sandy loam. Only a few, in-
cluding Bearded Iris, prefer heavier soil. But bulbs will do well in heavy soil
that has been made friable by the addition of much humus. Iris do well in
sandy soils that have been improved by accumulations of humus.
Thus the most important factor of soils is the humus content. On our
“Rancho de Las Flores’’ we compost all weeds, leaves and small branches.
Spade in deeply much compost and include if convenient, well-rotted
manure. Do not use fresh manure except six months before planting bulbs.
Soil and humus should be well-mixed and preparation of beds well in advance
of planting is an advantage. This very thorough preparation of soil is advis-
able for garden soils of poor quality and an advantage on the best soils, but
even without the additions suggested bulbs do well in most soils.
Fertilizers. Adding strong fertilizers just before planting bulbs or seeds
is popular but dangerous. In the average case more harm than good results.
One would not give a day-old infant a working man’s meal of ham and eggs or
a boiled dinner, a slice of pie and two cups of strong coffee. The strong fer-
tilizer, either manure or chemical, burns off the new roots of sprouting seeds
and bulbs and they die. Manure in small quantity can be applied as a mulch
to growing plants.
Commercial Fertilizers must be used with care and only in the proper
manner. Risk attends their use by the inexperienced. We do not attempt to
tell you how except that we use a small handful of Superphosphate to about 10
ft. of row of Gladiolus. It is the proper fertilizer to use for acid loving plants.
It is better to try out fertilizers on one or a few plants before apply them to
all. Superphosphate is a very strong fertilizer and should be applied only in
very small quantities until you learn how much to use.
We are frequently asked this question: Our Daffodils, Gladiolus, Ranun-
culus (ete.) are thru blooming. May we cut off the tops (or dig the bulbs), as
we want to plant something else there? The answer is ‘‘No.’’ Consider the
annual life cycle of a bulb. After a dormant period it makes roots first when
planted. Then a top growth of foliage and flowers. The growth is much more
rapid than a plant grown from seed can make, because there is much stored up
food in the bulb.
When thru blooming, this stored up food is completely used up. If dug at
this time or tops are cut off the bulbs are almost worthless. A few may sur-
vive but two or more years are required to bring them back. The correct cul-
ture is to induce vigorous growth in order to store up a large amount of food
for next season’s growth. If given time, the bulb will become large and plump.
At this time most bulbs also develop a bud for the next season. This bud may
be found by cutting the bulb thru the middle.
During this period of growth, there are also enzymes or digestives manu-
factured and stored away in the bulbs. Glads should grow several weeks, at
least, after flowering. Daffodils will grow at least three months. Keep bulbs
growing with good cultivation and liberal irrigation until leaves begin to yellow
then dry off.
During the succeeding dormant period, the enzymes reorganize or digest
the stored up food. The insoluble starch is changed to soluble sugar. That is
why potatoes become sweetish in taste in late season when they begin to sprout.
Thus the ‘‘dormant” bulb is very busy with this process which requires
from a few weeks to 3 or 4 months. This dormant period in plants may be
compared to the sleep required by man and other animals. Our bodies require
sleep for the accomplishment of vital processes.
Amateur growers often expect a bulb to grow at once when planted. One
should not attempt to start bulbs until all the processes of the ‘‘dormant’’
period are accomplished.
When you purchase Gladiolus bulbs for fall planting be sure they were
dug early, about July or August. Ranunculus and Anemones dug in July will
start after two or three months “rest.’”’ But they will start a lot more quickly
and will grow more rapidly when the rest period has been longer. Indeed,
when possible to obtain them, it is an advantage to plant bulbs that were dug
a full year or even two years before. But this applies only to Ranunculus and
Anemones. Most bulbs dry up soon after their dormant season has passed if
they are not planted.
The purpose of this discussion is to enable you to grow your bulbs suc-
cessfully not only the first season, but thereafter. One cannot escape the de-
duction, however, that the bulbs should be purchased from growers who know
how to produce good bulbs. Be sure to start right.
Consult all References available. We use Bailey’s Cyclopedia of Horticul-
ture. 3 Vol., over 3600 pages. It is in most city libraries. Send us your order.
Price $15.00, plus sales tax in Calif, postpaid.
ACID AND ALKALINE SOILS
Most plants thrive in a wide variety of soils and are not too particular
about the soil pH. Such plants are widely distributed and include our most
common ornamental and economic plants and especially weeds. But some of
our most important plants are very exacting in their requirements.
The pH of the soil (or any substance) is measured in units thus, pH 5.5.
It refers to the relative acidity or alkalinity and this depends on the concen-
tration of the hydrogen ions. The scale runs 1 to 14. pH 7 is neutral. Below
that the acidity increases as the pH decreases. Above pH 7 the scale indicates
increasing alkalinity.
Most semi-aquatic plants and shade loving plants do best in a mildly
acid soil. This will include most plants that grow in woods or bogs.
Among bulbs the following do much better in mildly acid soils, around
pH 6 and some possibly like more acidity. Gladiolus, Vallota, Callas, Cala-
diums, Arums, Lilies, Haemanthus, Nerines, etc. Those requiring neutral
to mildly alkaline soils are Iris, Hippeastrums, Daffodils, ete.
The acidity of a soil may be increased by the incorporation of any form
of vegetable matter. The most acid is imported peat, leaf mould and tan bark.
In fertilizers Superphosphate, Aluminum sulphate and sulphur are acid.
Lime, gypsum, ground shell, manure with ammonia odor and most com-
mercial nitrogenous fertilizers are alkaline.
It is often important to know the pH of your soil. Anyone can determine
it and no knowledge of chemistry is necessary. For $1.00 we will mail you
a Soiltex outfit with materials needed and complete simple directions.
Vitamin B, is believed to be a useful stimulant for bulbs. In transplant-
ing, soak the roots of bulbs or any plants in a solution and the plant does
not even wilt. We have done this with Hippeastrums in bloom and the flower
was uninjured, lasted for days and ripened seed. Use it on growing plants
for better plants and bloom. Altho some experimenters claim that vit. B,
has been overrated, our experience seems to show that it is useful in trans-
planting or in stimulating a more vigorous growth. :
Our new prices. 200 Tablets for $1.00. 100 for 60c. 50 for 35c.
25 for 20c.
Directions for use on plants in garden or in pots. For the first applica-
tion dissolve one tablet in 2 gal. water. For succeeding waterings use one
tablet in four gal. water, once a week. One can use these tablets as strong
as one tablet to a gallon for infrequent applications. When transplanting
shrubs, bulbs or any plants, dissolve 5 tablets or even more in 1 gal. water
and soak roots 15 to 30 min. Pour solution around the plant when set.
Warning: Do not soak dormant bulbs with vit. B, solution. It rots them.
It should not be applied to bulbs when planted until abundant roots are
formed. These directions apply only to the tablets we sent out. They may
be quite wrong for any other kind.
Bulbs for Southern Gardens. Our bulbs are all grown in the field or in
lath houses in the semi-tropical climate of Southern California. Hence they
are all ideal for outdoor planting in the south where temperatures are equally
mild. Very many are hardy in the north. In our culture directions we state
how far north a variety may be expected to be hardy. They are equally
adapted to growing in pots.
Bulbs for Winter Window Gardens
The Bulbs and Plants listed in the catalog were selected by us to grow
and sell because of their desirable qualities in the outside garden or as pot
plants for winter or early spring blooming indoors.
For pot growing we especially recommend the following. The approx-
imate time of flowering is mentioned in parenthesis. Amaryllis Family.
Agapanthus, (Early spring). Amarcrinum, (All seasons). Requires very
large pot. Clivia. (Mar.) Cyrtanthus, (Winter.) Haemanthus puniceus, H.
multiflorus and H. Katherinae. (Late spring to June.) Hippeastrum or
Amaryllis species and hybrids. (Usually Feb. to Apr. but sometimes Dec. or
Jan.) Hymenocallis, Species No. 1 and No. 2, are Spider Lilies of delicate
beauty that force easily in not too large pots. Nerine filifolia and N. rosea
crispa, (Oct. to Dec.) N. fothergilli, (Oct. Nov.) N. Bowdenii, (early winter.)
Sprekelia formosissima. Our evergreen type is one of the most satisfactory
pot plants which blooms now and then thru the year. We always have winter
flowers. Tulbaghia violacea. I believe I have never seen them when not
showing flowers. All Daffodils and Narcissus but we especially recommend
Paper White, (Nov.-Dec.) Chinese Lily, (Dec.-Jan.) Soliel d’Or, (Dec.-Jan.)
and Poetaz Hybrids. Allium neapolitanum. Iris Family. Freesias, (Feb.)
Sparaxis, Ixia, Tritonia, Babiana, Baby Glads (all Feb. or later.) Marica,
(late winter.) Moraea, all species, (late winter to spring.) Lily Family.
Colchicum, (Aug. Sept.) Roman and Grape Hyacinths.( late winter.) All
Scillas will flower in pots but the tender S. peruviana is especially recom-
mended. (Late winter.) All Ornithogalums. The O. arabicum will flower
about Easter and is taking the place of Easter Lilies that are hard to get
at present. Lilium Harrisii, (about Easter) Lachenalias, (Dec. 15 to late
Feb.) all varieties. Veltheimia. An exceptional pot plant and flower. (Dec.
15 to Mar.) Oxalis, all winter growing sorts. Very bright and cheerful.
Begin to flower early and continue long. Arum Family. Callas. White and
Colored flower well in pots. Do not pot colored Callas before Dec. 15. White
Callas may be started much earlier, as they have been dormant all summer.
Miscellaneous. Anemones and Ranunculus bloom well in pots. The large
sizes are best tho some claim that #3 size will force. Billbergias are fine
pot plants. Do not over water in winter until they start but do not allow
to dry out either. B. nutans blooms first, about Feb. It is a gorgeous flower.
Other varieties later. Many have rich mottled foliage. Violets. The new
violet Royal Robe flowers well in winter in pots in a cool room. Many other
bulbs can be flowered in pots. We have mentioned only those we could
recommend most highly.
Potting Directions. Be sure drainage is perfect, by placing broken
crock over hole and over that fine gravel or coarse sand. Soil should be
loose and rich and so pervious that water passes thru easily and does not
become sodden. Combine sand, garden loam and humus to get a right soil
texture. A little well-decayed manure may be added. For acid loving plants,
peat may be used for humus. Most bulbs like a little bone-meal.
When potted the bulb may be well watered to settle earth around and
start the roots. But.for most bulbs, much water before roots form is a dis-
advantage and many will rot. Best to keep only slightly moist until growth
starts then gradually increase. Pot bulbs early to give time for full root
development before they flower. Too much heat and moisture may rot
dormant bulbs before they form roots.
This seems to be the most common cause of failure with potted bulbs.
They are given much moisture and a warm room. Most of them should have
a cool room at least until they start. For most of them the soil should be
watered only once to settle soil. It is best to press the soil down and water
only slightly, adding thereafter only enough to prevent complete dryness.
Bulbs should be allowed to take their time about starting. Sometimes we
get an indignant letter because a bulb rotted. The bulb was perfectly good
but the grower was not. Amaryllis start satisfactorily at the right time but
even though it is a tropical bulb it should be started in a cool room in half
light. Later they can be brought to a warm room.
Size of pot. Many advise not to use too large a pot. But no pot is as
large as all outdoors and most bulbs bloom satisfactorily in an over sized pot.
Usually the pot should be at least 2 and we prefer 3 times the diameter of the
bulb for large bulbs. Small bulbs like Ranunculus, Freesias etc. can be planted
3 to a 4” pot or 5 in a 5” or 6” pot.
Temperature. Nearly every bulb recommended requires a cool room
temperature. Very few succeed in the hot dry air of many living rooms. The
maximum temperature for best results with most is seldom much above 70°.
Most of them like cool nights but not below about 35°. Amaryllis like a little
more heat when growing vigorously, as they are summer growers. Violets,
Anemones and Ranunculus like cool temperatures. The night temperature
can go down to 30° or 35°. Day temperatures are better around 60°, tho 70°
may not hurt them.
Watering should be sufficient after they are well started but allow soil
surface to become slightly dry between waterings. If soil is well drained then
it will not become soggy which would result in failure. Vigorously growing
plants that are good feeders like Amaryllis, Colored Callas etc. can use very
weak liquid manure, color of weak tea, every two or three weeks. Between
times B, solution may be used. But neither must be used on a weak plant.
Other hints will be given with the listing of bulbs.
Arrangement of This Catalog
Please note that we group our bulbs into the Families to which they belong
rather than arranging them alphabetically. Knowing the relationship of a
bulb is an advantage that all will approve, but it adds a little difficulty in
finding a bulb if you do not know its plant family. This catalog is worth study
for the information it contains. Study and experience are the only means of
gaining knowledge.
THE AMARYLLIS FAMILY—Amaryllidaceae
This family includes the bulbs from Agapanthus and includes The Alliae.
The American Amaryllis Society is an association of those thruout the
world who grow Amaryllids as an interesting and intellectual hobby. An an-
nual book ‘‘Herbertia’’ of about 250 pages is sent to each member. Therein
is discussed the best culture methods; descriptions of new species; notes on
Amaryllids in their habitat; reports on experiments in crossing, in culture,
propagation, etc. Herbertia is the essential book of reference on Amaryllids.
Beautifully illustrated. I invite you to send me $2.00 for membership. You
will receive volume 9 of Herbertia for 1942 as soon as published, probably
by December.
Bulb lovers who specialize in the Amaryllis Family would enjoy having
the complete set of 8 vols. of Herbertia 1934 to 1941 inclusive. Price $23.50,
postpaid. Several issues will soon be out of print and never again available.
How to Grow Amaryllis. This discussion includes not only the genus
Hippeastrum, which recently botanists have changed to the old popular name
of Amaryllis, but will also include the entire family of Amaryllids. The
name, “‘Amaryllis’” has been bandied around by botanists from Linnaeus to
Herbert and later. At times the name has been applied to species of Crinums,
Lycoris, Nerines, Zephyranthes and many others.
Changes made by recent writers evidently are scientifically correct but
inconvenient to amateurs. We must gradually accustom ourselves to the name
Callicore rosea in place of Amaryllis belladonna, We must learn also that the
bulb known in America as Nerine sarniensis, or Guernsey Lily, always was an
error. The correct name is Lycoris radiata, or Red Spider Lily. N. sarniensis
is quite a different bulb, tho the fiowers have a casual resemblance. We must
likewise learn to call the common type of Blue Lily of the Nile Agapanthus
orientalis, instead of A. umbellatus if we wish to be botanically up-to-date.
Such winter growing Amaryllids as Callicore rosea, Haemanthus coccineus,
Hippeastrum advenum, Lycoris, all species, Nerines and Sternbergia should be
ordered at once after this catalog is issued. If planted by Sept. 1 they will
usually flower. If two weeks later, they often do not. We do not guarantee
these bulbs to flower when planted in the fall. The perfect time is July to Aug.
Hardiness. All Amaryllids listed are hardy outdoors in the far south.
Amaryllis, Amarcrinum, Agapanthus, Callicore, Crinums, Hippeastrums, Hab-
ranthus, Hymenocallis, Lycoris, Sprekelia, Sternbergia and Zephyranthes are
hardy along Atlantic coast to No. Carolina. Inland most of them are grown
successfully with protection at Washington and Philadelphia Arkansas and
even in southern Missouri and southern Kansas. There are, no doubt, other
milder locations where they could be grown. Where the location is on the
borderline, they should be planted more deep and in a protected location like
the south side of a house, a wall or evergreen tree. They may be protected in
winter by a mulch or leaves or by a mound of tree branches. Hippeastrums
can scarcely be wintered in the garden where temperatures go much below 20°,
unless planted deeper than the frost penetrates.
The following are quite winter hardy in the north. Crinum longifolia,
Lycoris squamigera, L. incarnata and Leucojum aestivum. Only a little less
hardy are Crinums moorei, Cecil Houdyshel and Powelli as well as Amar-
crinum. In milder sections, with deep planting and protections they should
succeed.
Sun exposure and water. Most Amaryllids like plenty of water when
growing. When dormant they should receive little. When starting recently
potted bulbs, water little until growth appears. The following do well in full
sun or a little shade. Lycoris, most Crinums, Callicore rosea, Nerine, Hymeno-
callis, Leucojum, Elisena, Pancratium, Zephyranthus, and Sprekelia.
Give 25% to 40% shade to Hippeastrums, more than that to Agapanthus
and Vallota. Full shade or almost but with plenty of light to Haemanthus
(except coccineus which should have full sun) and Clivia. Polianthes, (tube-
roses), most Alliums, Milla and Bessera should have full sun. If Crinum
foliage burns, give it more shade. C. Moorei, Virginia Lee and Gordon Wayne
require almost full shade.
Most Amaryllids prefer rich sandy loam soil and are gross feeders. Slight
but frequent additions of manure should be added as a top mulch, when in full
growth. Most of them may use even fresh manure if growing vigorously but
use caution. On poor or worn out soil few do well except Hippeastrum
equestre which grows vigorously but fails to flower except in thin sandy soil.
So many customers request special information about Hippeastrum
(Amaryllis) hybrids that we give special instructions. Pot the bulb at once
‘when received in rich sandy loam soil to which has been added about 25%
or more of well rotted manure. Pot may be 2 or 3 times diameter of bulb.
If you order in the fall living roots will be attached to bulb. This is an
advantage. Set bulb half above surface in pots (or just covered in garden).
Spread out the roots. Firm the soil. Water once. It should drain well.
Temperature of room should be cool. Pot should not be in much light at
first but when flower bud is up above the bulb give it gradually more light,
until finally it is placed in full sun in window, as winter sun is not too strong.
The bulb should not be watered a second time until the bud is well developed.
Then increase gradually. Too much is bad. When pot is well filled with
roots, and it should be when they are in flower, they need plenty of water.
Liquid manure is very good, but if roots have developed very slowly, recently
potted bulbs may receive much injury. For best growth of bulb remove faded
flowers and prevent seed production. Keep the bulbs growing until late fall.
Remember, luxuriant growth after flowering and until late fall is necessary
to form the flower buds. Then about Nov., or earlier if leaves become yellow-
ish, gradually reduce water. The pots should be nearly dry until a new bud
appears. If dormant early the bud sometimes appears in Dec. But it is
usually from Jan. to March. The bulbs need about 10 weeks rest.
Clivias are usually grown in pots even in south tho we grow in the garden
under shade of trees (evergreen) where only a few spots of sun can touch
them and in a lath house with laths spaced about 3” apart.
The pot should be 8” to 12” for large plants. Use good rich friable soil with
leaf mould and well rotted manure added. Drainage must be perfect. Water
well when potted but do not over-water later. They use plenty when well-
established. They do not like hot rooms, and must not be in the sun, nor in
a dark poorly-ventilated corner. They are heavy feeders and respond to
liquid manure.
The following may be grown by the ‘Gladiolus method,” that is in the
garden, then dug and stored dry over winter. Ismene and other Hymenocallis,
Crinums, Cooperia, Elisena, Zephyranthes, Bessera and Milla.
Agapanthus, Crinums and Amarcrinum, may be grown in a very large pot,
bucket or tub outside and wintered in a frost-free, light basement or cellar.
The Agapanthus should not dry off enough to cause loss of leaves. The others
may be quite dry. Growing large clumps of Agapanthus in tubs is a favorite
method in cold climates. Additional culture information is given if necessary
in the listing of species.
List of Amaryllids
Agapanthus. Blue Lily of the Nile. The name means Love Flower. They
are universal favorites in the south for the gardens and many grow them in
tubs or buckets in the north.
Agapanthus longispathus. A new species whose flowers resemble Orien-
talis, but has more graceful foliage and flower stem, and is more profuse in
flowers. 85c ea.
A. orientalis. (umbellatus) Many deep blue flowers in a large umbel, on
24” stem, blooming in spring and thru the summer. The large plants form very
attractive clumps with a strap-like foliage. Our variety is an especially fine
one, with deep blue flowers. 50c.
A. orientalis, sky blue variety. 60c ea.
A. mooreanus minor. A deciduous dwarf variety particularly adapted to
pot culture. Dark blue flowers on a 2’ slender scape. Store pots nearly dry
over winter. 35c. Three plants, for a 6” pot, $1.00.
Alstromeria. Alstromerias are very showy plants with long slender stems.
As a cut flower they last a long time, are very beautiful and are distinctly
different from the more common flowers. The individual flowers much re-
semble a highly colored small orchid. The flowers are in a large umbel
on a long stem.
Culture. They should have about 50% shade. The soil should be a rich
sandy loam with good drainage and a great deal of humus. They do not do
well in a heavy soil. This may be had from old rotted screened manure or leaf
mould. Plant the cluster of tubers in the south from Sept. to Nov. with the
crown 2” under the soil surface. When tops die after flowering withhold
water or dig and keep dry. It is better not to disturb them. In the south
they start to grow in the fall and will require irrigation before rains come.
They must have an abundance of water at all times when growing and
good drainage. They are hardy as far north as Washington, D. C., and we
have them reported hardy in a well protected situation, with winter mulch,
in New Jersey and Ohio. In the north they can be planted in the spring.
Carefully lift in the fall and store in dry peat or sand, and keep very cool.
They also may be grown in large pots. Please order early in full, as it is
hard to hold them back in this warm climate.
Alstromeria aurantiaca lutea. Bright yellow flowers. A strong grower
and blooms a long time. Flowers fine for cutting. 20c. Per doz. $1.75. Per
100 $12.00.
A. chilensis. Extremely attractive flowers in a wide range of color from
nearly white to various pink, red, yellow and orange tones. One of the best
and easiest to grow. Assorted colors only. 15c Per doz., $1.25. Per 100, $10.00.
A. pelegrina. Lily of the Incas. Dark rose, with petals spotted reddish
purple. Vigorous and showy. 25c. Per doz., $2.25.
A, pelegrina alba. A lovely white unspotted form. 25c. Per doz., $2.50.
A. pulchella. Large clusters of dark red flowers tipped green and brown
spots inside. Tall long stems. Early flowering. 15c. Per doz., $1.25.
A. Assorted Varieties. These are all of bloomnig size and some are large.
We include in this mixture those that have lost the label, surplus sorts, ete.
15c. $1.00 doz.
Amarcrinum Howardii. A cross between Crinum moorei and Amaryllis
belladonna. <A delicate pure sweet pink color. Increases wonderfully fast
and blooms in all seasons even midwinter here. $1.00 ea. Extra large,
$1.50 and $2.00.
Amaryllis belladonna. Botanists have recently changed its name to Calli-
core rosea. We must get accustomed to this new name. It has many common
names—Surprise Lily, Naked Lady Lily, or better Lady Godiva Lily are de-
scriptive of the fact that the flower stem shoots up, bursts into full bloom in
only a few days—and is unclothed. by any leaves. The soft pink flowers in
large umbels are of exquisite beauty and spicy, intriguing fragrance. Valuable
for cutting.
Culture. It is best to transplant in July but we have bulbs dug before
blooming that can be held back until (possibly) Sept. 10. Order at once. Late
orders will be filled with bulbs that have bloomed as they can be moved until
foliage has begun to show. In the south plant in garden with top of bulbs a
little below surface. Amaryllis are very hardy for this class and will recover
easily from 12° of frost. They may be grown as far north as Washington, D. C.
or Vancouver, B. C.
They are not very successful as pot plants but will bloom the first year
and one flower stalk is well worth the cost of the bulb.
A. bellodonna major. Earliest, pure pink, 25c. Larger, 35c. Jumbo
size, 50c.
A. belladonna minor. White throat. Later flowering. 50c.
A. belladonna, var. Ethel. This name is not intended to be permanent.
We grew the seedling nearly 10 years ago, named it, and later decided it was
too much like others to justify the name. It may be one of the scarce varieties
from Europe or Australia. We will use this name only until identified. It is
like minor in size, time of flowering, etc., but the color is a dark rose with
white throat which turns rose. Very beautiful. $2.00 ea.
Clivia. syn. Imantophyllum. Altho easy to grow and to flower by the
amateur, they will always be classed with the aristocrats of flowering bulbs,
because the flowers easily place them there. Also they increase so slowly by
division that the chief method must be thru the freely produced seeds. But a
Clivia requires at least five years and usually seven, to flower from seed. This
time involves expense. They can never become very cheap.
Clivias have evergreen, strap like foliage somewhat resembling that of
Hippeastrums.
The flowers are produced in umbels of 10 to 25, in rich and exquisite
tones of orange, in March and April. When not in flower the deep rich green
foliage and later the red fruits are most ornamental.
_ Prices. Recently our prices have been reduced to one-half our original
price of $5.00 each for Clivia hybrids. This reduction is below the recognized
value of a good Clivia. We had too large an investment in Clivias and too
much expense was required to keep them up, for the volume of sales. Not every-
one will or can pay $5.00 for one plant. In. the spring we warned our custom-
ers to expect an increase in price. We still have a very large stock, and we can
put off the date of a considerable price increase a little longer.
Clivia miniata hybrids. Foliage much like species miniata tho some are
broader. Flowers wide open, erect and much like miniata except that the
colors vary somewhat, while miniata has but one color. These plants are not
labelled for color so we cannot give you a choice of color. A few are dark
orange, others are white with border of light orange. The majority are soft
orange toned pink of great beauty. Largest plants $3.50 ea. Large, $3.00 ea.
Medium blooming size, $2.50. Other smaller sizes at 75c and $1.50 ea.
C. nobilis hybrids. These are a fine European strain. The foliage is broad
and blunt at apex. Flowers large and ranging in color from apricot orange to
red orange. Price, large plants, $10.00 each.
C. miniata, This is the more common species but it is an outstanding
plant in any collection. Flowers are soft yellow orange. Top size, $2.00 ea. A
good blooming size, $1.00 ea.
Note. No Clivias of any size are guaranteed to flower the first year after
moving. They usually do but the only sure way is to pay more for one in bud
to be delivered in March. The price is 50c above the price of the largest size
except for C. nobilis hybrids. The price of these in bud is $13.00.
Cyrtanthus are closely related to Zephyranthes. Bulbs and plants are
about the same size but the flowers are long and tubular. Their most vigorous
growth and flowering is in the winter, tho a few flowers are produced thru a
large part of the year. They may become semi-dormant in mid-summer when
hot but should not be dried off much. They like rich soil and respond to barn-
yard fertilizer.
The winter flowering habit make Cyrtanthus very desirable in southern
gardens and for growing in pots in the north. Useful for cut flowers.
Cyrtanthus augustifolius. Orange red flowers. 50c.
C. lutescens. Bright yellow tubular flowers. 35c.
C. mackenni. Clear ivory white flowers on a larger plant. 35c.
Daffodils
This name for all Narcissi has the authority of the British Royal Horti-
culture Society. They are universal garden favorites. They belong to the
Amaryllis Family.
Culture. All Daffodils except the Polyanthus Narcissus are hardy both
in the mild climate of the south as well as in the colder northern states. In
the north especially it is best to plant the bulbs rather deep where the frost
does not reach. Six inches is about right. Smaller bulbs like Jonquils may
go more shallow and be mulched. In California too and all the south there is
an advantage in deep planting. We plant the Trumpets at least 4” deep. Plant
September to November. Poeticus very early. All do well in pots.
Sandy loam is the best soil, but any good rich garden soil will do. The
addition of thoroughly decayed manure is a help. Use no fresh manure. The
addition of lime to the soil is good, and necessary if leaf mould is used, as
they need a mildly alkaline or neutral soil.
Trumpet Daffodils
Please note: At the following prices bulbs are mailed, postpaid. Except
that the prices ‘‘per 100 not prepaid’’ are shipped by express and you pay this
charge on receipt of bulbs.
Empercr. Rich golden trumpet, petals lighter, good grower and free
bloomer. 10c ea. 85c doz. 100 for $5.00 not prepaid.
King Alfred. The favorite of all low priced Daffodils. Large deep golden
yellow. 10c, $1.00 per doz. 100 for $6.00 not prepaid. No. 1, round bulbs
(usually more flowers per bulb), 15c ea. $1.25 per doz.
Olympia. Golden yellow with frilled trumpet. Hardy and easy to grow.
10c ea. $1.00 per doz.
Robert Sydenham. Superb heavily. frilled trumpet of golden yellow with
symmetrical soft yellow perianth. A very large flower of rugged, well propor-
tioned beauty. 15c ea. $1.50 doz.
Incomparabilis Daffodils
Croesus. Petals pure gold with deep red crown. The best at a low price.
25¢ ea.- $2.50 doz.
Helios. Extra early. Large yellow flower with orange yellow crown. 25¢c
ea. $2.50 per doz.
Homespun. Soft yellow petals, richly colored crown. 8c ea. 65c doz.
$5.00 per 100 not prepaid.
Sir Watkin. Petals and trumpet pure yellow. 8c ea. 75c doz. 100 for
$5.00 not prepaid.
Barri Daffodils
Barri Conspicuous. Perianth yellow. Cup edged scarlet. Best known
Barri. 5c ea. 50c doz. Per 100 $4.00.
Diana Kasner. Pure white petals and: fluted yellow cup with blood red
frill. Fine forcer in pots. 30c ea. $3.00 per doz.
Leedsi Daffodils
Crystal Queen. Pure white petals, crown, primrose fading white. Leader
in this class. 10c ea. $1.00 doz.
Poeticus Daffodils
Poets Narcissus, loved: by poets from Virgil to Tennyson, have white
petals with a red edged cup, a contrast that gives distinction. Altho they
bloom late they must be planted very early. Some are not too easy to grow
but these are.
Horace. Conspicuous red eye. Free flowering. 10c ea. $1.00 doz.
_ KRecurvus. Pheasant’s Eye Narcissus. The variety known by the poet
Virgil. 8c ea. 65c doz.
Polyanthus Narcissus
The ‘‘cluster flowered.’’ Hardy only in mild climates, but unequalled for
pots in the house. Highly perfumed. May be grown in bowls of fiber or held up
by pebbles in a dish of water.
i Brest Lily. White with yellow eye. Blossoms Dec. to Jan. 10c ea.
c doz.
Grand Monarque. White with primrose eye. 10c ea. 85c. doz.
Paper White. Pure white, earliest. 8c ea. 50c doz. $4.00 per 100 not
prepaid.
Soliel d@’Or. Petals pure deep golden yellow, cup brilliant orange. Makes
brilliant effect in the garden here in Jan. Equally fine in the house and goes
right on blooming even at 20° F. The most desirable in this group. Special
price, 8c ea. 60c doz. $4.75 per 100 postpaid. Larger size, same price,
charges collect.
Poetaz Hybrids
Hybrids between the Polyanthus and Poet’s Narcissus. Hardy and fine in
pots or garden.
Aspasia. Pure white, yellow cup. Best in this color. 10c ea. 90c doz.
Orange Cup. Pale yellow, with deep orange cup. 10c ea. $1.00 doz.
Jonquils
They look like small Trumpet Daffodils, with about three flowers on a
stem. Exquisite. Very hardy and rapid multipliers. Fine for potting. A most
alluring and distinctive fragrance.
Campernelle. Improved pure yellow. 10c ea. 85c doz.
Golden Scepter. A new Jonquil-Daffodil hybrid. Flowers 3” across. Late
deep jonquil yellow. 25c ea.
Jonquilla simplex. The-smallest. It has two or three perfectly shaped,
tiny Daffodils of pure rich yellow topping a 10” stem. It is the sweetest
scented of Jonquils, but never heavy like the scent of the Polyanthus. Forces
will in pots. Special price, 5c ea. 50c doz. Per 100, $3.50 postpaid.
Narcissus Special. Many bulbs are left in the field when digging. Some-
times labels are lost. We have assembled these unnamed ones. They are mostly
the less expensive ones like Paper White and Soliel d’Or. In fact you might
get only those but there are quite a few better sorts including Large Trumpet
types, etc. These are the prizes that some of you draw. It’s a gamble. Price,
30 for $1.00.
Elisena longipetala. “Rare Peruvian amaryllid. Bulb and plant much like
Ismene, Hymenocallis calathina, and culture the same. The flowers are much
prettier, being pure white with long petals. It may be grown in the north
easily, like Ismene, by the Gladiolus method. $5.00 each.
Eucharis grandiflora. Pure white. Exquisite beauty and fragrance. Ever-
green. Difficult to grow and still more, to flower. For pots only, in sandy
loam, rotted cow manure, leaf mould -or peat. Add a little bone meal. pH
should be about 6 or 6.5. If above that add more peat. Slight shade. Minimum
temperature 50°. $1.50.
Haemanthus coccineus. Blood Lily. The rather flat bulb sends up an
attractive red mottled flower scape in September, topped by an umbel of many
small, closely spaced, red flowers, 4” across. Later two wide leaves appear and
lie flat on the ground. In the late spring these die and the plant should then
be allowed to dry off completely. Easy in pots in the north. As they like acid
soil use equal parts of peat or leaf mould and loam that is sandy enough to
feel gritty. Bulbs available only until Sept. 15. Seldom flower the first year if
planted after Sept. 1. All Haemanthus are very tender and can be grown out-
side only in So. California and Florida. Price $1.00 ea. Extra large $1.50.
H. puniceus. This species is much smaller and is very easy to grow. It
makes an attractive pot plant and is evergreen. The smaller umbel of salmon
flowers are born on a mottled 12” stem. A cluster of bright red fruits contain-—
ing the large seeds follows the flowers. We listed this species formerly as
probably H. Lindenii. Delivery any time. $3.00 ea.
Hemerocallis, Day Lily. Among the most popular and well known per-
ennial plants. They have been classed under the Lily Family but recent bo-
tanical writers place them with the Amaryllis Family. Flowers range in color
from dark bronzy red, orange to yellow and are lily like in form.
Culture. They are hardy everywhere, surviving even coldest winters.
Altho they do well in any type of good soil they prefer a rich and moist loam
and partial shade. Divide the clumps when too crowded. The list includes a
few species and some of the better hybrids. Delivery when dormant in late fall.
Hemerocallis Calypso. Large, fragrant lemon yellow flowers in July and
August. 3%’ tall. Night flowering, 35c.
H. Crown Prince. Color like Mikado. Smaller plant. Special, 25c.
H. Dauntless. Pale cadmium yellow, greenish throat and delicate fulvous
red in center of petals. 2%’. July-August. $2.00.
H. fulva. Orange flowers in July-August. 25c.
H. Geo. Yeld. The largest, a huge flower on a 4’ stem. Blend of buff,
apricot, orange and terra-cotta. 75c.
H. kwanso. The double fulva. Orange, 20c.
H. Margaret Perry. Brilliant orange-scarlet. 4’. July-August. 35c.
H. Mikado. Orange with large mahogany red spot in each petal. 3’. June-
Julys-7 oc;
H. Radiant. Rich orange. 75c.
H. Soudan. Clear lemon yellow. Broad petals with wavy margin. 3’.
July. $1.00.
H. Vesta. Deep orange with gold sheen. June-July. 75c.
H. vulcan. Large flower of darkest maroon red. Rare. $2.50.
H. Wau-bun. Light cadmium yellow, lightly sprinkled with fulvous red.
Ranks near top of the best. 3’. July-August. $1.25.
Hippeastrum or Amaryllis. Botanists have recently revised the nomen-
clature and this genus is now Amaryllis rather than Hippeastrum. This con-
forms to the name that has always been commonly used.
Amaryllis are probably the most popular of all bulbs for growing in pots.
Their vivid colors of red, scarlet, rose and nearly white, in large, round, wide-
open flowers are most attractive in the window of a living room from January
to April. The first hybrid, Johnsonii, is still one of the most popular. It has
been a favorite potting bulb for much over 100 years and is grown extensively
in the south in gardens. It was the first bulb I ever owned (in 1898) and it
made me an Amaryllis lover and a bulb grower.
Be sure to read carefully our culture advice under How to Grow Amaryl-
lis. lf your own method is successful, do not change it. But if you fail to
obtain the best success, and many do fail, our discussion may point out your
error. In the 44 years of growing them, we have not yet learned all but we
are able to grow good bulbs and flowers.
-The ideal Amaryllis have fine clear colors in an endless variety of tones. If
you were to buy 500 of our mixed colors you would not get two just alike.
There should be little or no green in the throat. Personally we like the solid
colors, without stripes or white throat the best and many of ours are like that,
but contain for variety many stripes and variations since most people seem to
prefer that. The texture of the petals should be smooth, not ridged or crinkled.
Perfection of form is more desirable than large size. I admire an 8” round
flower of good form and texture more than I do a 12” flower with narrow
pointed petals. The Diener hybrids have the largest flowers and are favorites
of those who want large size but our Select Strains have more perfect form
and color tones.
We are frequently asked for pure whites. There are a few, not many, in
our Select Strains, especially the White Backgrounds. Please note that the
four color classes sold under this name are not perfectly classified. The classi-
fication was based mostly on the color of the parents and many of these were
not large enough to flower last year. So, under reds you will get a few that
are pink, scarlet, rose or even white backgrounds. We have even found pure
white ones under the colors. Others are almost pure white.
Pure White Amaryllis sold as such would cost $5.00 to $10.00 ea. They |
are more difficult to grow in the garden but do very well in pots. /
We do not make separate classifications at present for self colored reds,
scarlets, pinks or rose. There are many of these in our mixtures but to offer
them separately one would have to charge at least double our price for the
assorted Reds, Scarlets, Rose, etc. If you buy a dozen or more you are very
likely to get one or several that are a solid color. We would like to have every
one of our estimated 25,000 customers grow from a dozen to 100 of our Select
Hybrids (or as many as space allows), and every one a member of the Ameri-
can Amaryllis Society.
I would like to have you make crosses on our best bulbs and grow seed-
lings. It would not hurt our business because you need our bulbs to grow the
seed as we do not sell our best seed. We plant it. To encourage you we will
tell you how it is done. Place pollen, a powdery substance, from the outer
stamens which are just inside the petals, on the central stigma. The stigma is
a knoblike organ at the end of the filament or stalk above the ovary and all
are parts of the pistil.
This process is called pollination. If successfully accomplished, a seed pod
will form and after a few weeks will ripen. It is ready to pluck just as the pod
starts to burst open. Lay it away a few days and when seeds have fully burst
out they may be planted in good potting soil and covered %”. Do not delay
planting the seed too long as old seed does not always grow.
Pots of seed may be watered once and if covered by a pane of glass the
seeds will come up without further watering. Then remove glass and sprinkle
the seedlings lightly with a syringe every day. Give the seedlings half shade
and keep them growing. Often they flower in two years if transplanted into
only 3 or 4 to a 5” pot when the seedlings begin to be crowded.
Plant breeding, as an intellectual hobby, will bring you much pleasure
and many surprises. Often, amateurs have done very valuable work. Good
seed can only rarely be bought. It is better to grow your own as most growers
plant their own best seed. Old seed does not germinate well.
Hippeastrum Hybrids. Assorted colors. These are selected from a variety
of sources. No poor flowers. 50c ea. $5.00 per dozen. Extra large bulbs, 75c
ea. We recommend the Select Strains as superior.
H. Near White Hybrids. Some have very light pink markings, others
heavier but none heavily marked. They give the general effect of a white
flower. This is a very vigorous strain unlike the pure white. Rich, spicy
fragrance. Rather later in blooming. 75c ea. $7.50 per doz.
H. Hybrids, Select Strains. This lot is composed of the best of the Howard
and Smith and other American and European breeders. We consider this the
best commercial strain now available. The petals are nicely rounded, in a per-
fectly moulded flower. The colors are refined and in countless tones from white
background with light markings to various tones of pink, rose, red and scarlet.
The flowers are large, sometimes 8” or more in diameter. We offer these in
the following color classes. Assorted Colors; White Backgrounds, from nearly
white to medium markings; Red Shades, many are pure Self colors; Scarlet;
Pink, which includes many shades of rose and other pink tones. Be sure to
order as H. hybrids, Select Strains, Assorted Colors, White Background, Red,
Scarlet or Pink. Price, all colors, in blooming size bulbs, 2144” to 3”, 75c ea.
3 for $2.00. (N.B.: If you prefer, you may have Howard and Smith strain. )
We offer these in large bulbs from 3” up in all colors, except pink, for $1.50 ea.
H. Diener’s Hybrids. These are Diener’s latest improved hybrids, post-
humous, grown from seed of his own crossing and selection. Diener worked
for largest flowers and the everblooming habit. He claimed some as large as
16” diameter. They are the largest and the most profuse bloomers, tho we per-
sonally consider them too large. The stock of these posthumous bulbs is very
small. No color selections possible. Large bulbs, price $1.50 ea. Giant bulbs
314%” or over, $2.50.
H. ambiguum. Has a tall scape with an umbel of 5 to 7 flowers, pure
white with lines of pink. Very sweet fragrance. Rare. These Costa Rican
natives were brought to California before 1875. $3.00 ea.
H. johnsonii. This old hybrid is the one most often seen in southern
gardens and is a favorite for potting. The rich deep red flowers, with broad,
contrasting white band through the center of each petal, stand out in the
garden. It is one of the hardiest, easiest to grow and most rapid in increase.
40c. Extra large, 50c. Jumbo bulbs, 60c.
H. Lady Helen. A new hybrid by W. E. Rice. Originator‘s description.
Capsicum red, self colored (by R. H. S. color chart). $6.00.
H. Sibyl Houdyshel. Pure white with a narrow pink line on border, flushed
and lined pink in throat. Very fragrant. Sturdy grower and propagator.
Luther Burbank origination. One of the oldest American originations and as
a distinct variety is rare and costly. But there are some in our Select Strain,
White Backgrounds, that are larger and better in form. Price $6.00. No small
bulbs are for sale. No Wholesale discount.
McCann’s Double Amaryllis. As double as a rose, with often 20 or more
petals. Shades of red or scarlet. This type is sometimes difficult to grow and
your success is not guaranteed. Try very sandy soil. Small blooming size,
90c ea.
The following group belongs to the sub-genus Habranthus and are some-
times listed as Habranthus advenus, robustus, etc.
H. advenum. Ox-blood Lily. This is a fall bloomer and winter grower.
Small dark red flowers in an umbel of 7 or 8. Very hardy and will stand at
least 12° below freezing. Probably safe to plant quite far up toward north.
Plant 6” deep, full sun. It should be planted in every garden in the south and
middle-south. On the coasts, north to Vancouver and N. Carolina. 25c ea.
$2.50 per doz.
H. brachyandrum. Rare. Has a single-flowered umbel. Bright, deep, lav-
ender pink. S., $1.00. L., $1.50 ea.
H. robustum. Sometimes, in error, listed as a Zephyranthes. Has one
large lilac pink flower. 15c.
H. texanum. This name may not be correctly determined as we have two
types. One has broader foliage and the flowers and shape of bulb differ
slightly. Small plant with yellow flowers in mid-summer. State whether you
want the broad or narrow leafed type. Both for 45c. Price each 25c.
Hymenocallis. This genus includes the Spider Lilies and Ismene. The
Ismene is deservedly one of our most popular bulbs but few know that new
improved forms and hybrids have been produced. The almost ethereal beauty
and the fragrance of Spider Lilies is known by few.
Culture. Hymenocallis are hardy in southern gardens where temperatures
do not go lower than perhaps 15° above. Some will endure zero or colder but
not the strictly tropical sorts. All do exceedingly well in pots or tubs. Both
Spider Lilies and Ismene in the north may be grown outside in the summer
and dug and stored in winter, the Gladiolus method. Glads themselves are
tropical and no more suited for the north than these. The Ismene is even
grown commercially in the north. Plant Ismenes 4” deep, 6” apart. Smaller
species not so deep.
Hymenocallis calathina. The Ismene or Peruvian Daffodil. Large white
flowers, veined green with a daffodil-like cup. Very fragrant. Jumbo size, 35c.
Large 25c. M. 15c.
H. calathina minor. <A very tiny Ismene not one-fourth as large as the
type. Of interest at least to collectors, and useful in small arrangements. This
name is our own for a plant sent to us by a collector. 60c ea.
H. calathina, ‘“‘Advance.”’ 2’ tall. Larger, whiter and more flowers. $1.00
each. This and the next four varieties are rare Ismene Hybrids.
H. festalis. H. calathina X Elisena longipetala hybrid. A more graceful
form and pure white. Exquisite. $2.00. ;
H. festalis Triumph. A further improvement, with immense flowers. $3.00.
H. Olympia. The largest of all Ismenes. A creamy white. $5.00 ea.
H. Sulphur Queen. H. calathina x amancaes. A yellow Ismene. $1.50.
H. Galvestonensis. Texas Spider Lily. Probably hardy as far north as
Tennesse or farther, if planted as deep as 6” to 10”. Said to be a dainty,
graceful flower in its habitat, but not the equal of the two following tropical
species. Moves easily but established itself slowly. 25c.
H. species No. 1. A small Spider Lily easy to grow in the south. In the
north it is grown by the Gladiolus method. Blooms more freely after large
clumps are made. Plant close. Bulbs bloom easily in pots. 15c.
H. species No. 2. One of the best tropical species. Flowers large in a
many flowered umbel. Fragrant and very beautiful. Will endure temp. of 20°,
probably lower. Blooms well in pots or tubs. Can be dug and stored in north.
50c ea.
Leucojum aestivum. Quite hardy in north. Blooms early, often before
snow is gone. Dainty white flowers, each petal tipped with a green dot. 10c.
Per. doz., 50c.
L. sp. unknown. Probably two species mixed. They have much larger
bells and 5 to 7 in each umbel. Our best species. 20c ea. $2.00 per doz.
Lycoris. Fall blooming Amaryllid. Hardy well up into middle south.
Radiata and aurea do not lose their foliage at 20°, and might stand lower with-
out injury. L. squamigera and L. incarnata are quite hardy in the north.
L. aurea. Golden Spider Lily. Very rare and one of nature’s most gorgeous
flowers. Deep gold. Plant about 4” deep. Prefers sandy soil. These came
from Japan and are now almost unobtainable in America. We have a very few
for $2.50 ea.
L. incarnata. Flesh colored flowers with reddish markings. $2.50.
L. radiata. Red Spider Lily. This is one of the south’s very best bulbs.
A bed of them in bloom will catch and hold the attention in any competition
by other flowers. Large umbels on 12” stems of the most vivid coral red
flowers with long, undulated and reflexed petals and very long stamens. One
of easiest bulbs to grow. Hardy to North Carolina. 25c ea. Jumbo size 35c.
L. squamigera. The famous hardy Amaryllis Halli. The flower umbel
without foliage resembles Amaryllis belladonna. Color, lilac pink. Plant 4”
deep and mulch in the north. Every northern garden should have them. $1.00
ea. $10.00 per doz.
Nerine. One of the most beautiful of the Amaryllids but few know them.
There are, or were good stocks in Europe, but very few in America. They are
autumn flowering, beginning here with N. filifolia and N. c. fothergilli in Sep-
tember to October. N. Bowdenii in October to December. All our species,
except one, proved hardy here when we had two weeks of temperatures down
to 20° and ice 1” thick. With deeper planting and in a protected place they
would probably survive 16°. N. filifolia is the most tender and probably 22°
or 24° would be its limit.
Nerines like a sandy loam containing much leaf mould. We add peat as
they prefer an acid soil. We plant in full sun. Most species except N. filifolia
and Bowdenii (which grow all summer) will become dormant about June and
should receive no water until August. N. rosea crispa, a Filifolia hybrid, may
be treated either way.
They are ideal pot bulbs. Three bulbs may be planted in a 5” pot and
remain undisturbed for five years. They resent being disturbed and if roots
are lost they seldom flower the first year. They bloom and grow better when
pot-bound.
Give plenty of water when growing and occasionally liquid manure. Get
the best possible growth. When tops begin to yellow gradually reduce water.
When dormant, they should remain in the full sun but receive no water.
Nerine Bowdenii. About 10 or more large rose pink flowers in an umbel
9” across on a 15”-18” stem or scape. One of the most choice and very easy
to grow. $1.00 ea. Extra large bulbs, $1.50 ea. Ready January.
N. curvifolia, var. fothergillii. The flowers are large, and bright deep red
in color. Very rare in America. Delivery until Oct. 1. $1.50.
N. filifolia. The smallest Nerine. Evergreen foliage with dainty pink
flowers. Moved any time of year. They must be crowded to flower well and as
many as a dozen may be planted in a 5” pot. They increase very rapidly and
hence a low price is possible. Three for 25c. 90c per doz.
N. rosea crispa. A hybrid with flowers resembling N. filifolia but in a
larger umbel on a scape 15” or more tall. 30c. Largest size, 50c.
Pancratium maritimum. Very fragrant white flowers, in shape like an
Ismene but pure snow white. Culture simple. Plant them 4” deep and watch
them grow. Hardy in middle south. 15ce.
Sprekelia formosissima superba. We found this variety (described and
named by Hayward in 1938 Herbertia) in an old California Garden. The
flowers are about twice as large as the common types, a lighter and more pleas-
ing red color. The foliage is evergreen and the flowers are so freely produced
thruout the year that it almost deserves the title of an ever-bloomer. How-
ever, it is unlikely that a single bulb would bloom more than about four times
in a year. We call this the Orchid amaryllis because of the orchid-like shape.
I believe this may be Burbank’s hybrid ‘‘Martinique’”’ which I saw in 1913 but
was thought to be lost in cultivation. Jumbo bulbs, 75c; M., 50c; S., 35c.
Stenomesson variegatum. The flowers are in a numerous umbel, long,
cylindrical and drooping. We have never seen the flowers and an accurate de-
scription is impossible. But they are said to be red or golden for most species.
They require soil about as for Amaryllis, and about half shade. They are
summer growing and should be potted in the fall and kept dry at a temperature
never below 45°. As our winters are very wet and temperatures are down to
about 30° every winter it is improbable that we can flower them in So. Cali-
fornia in the garden. Collectors should try them in pots as they are thrifty,
strong growers and easy every way except to flower. That also should be easy
in pots. Large bulbs, $7.50; M., $5.00; S., $3.50.
Sternbergia lutea. <A small, yellow flowering, winter growing Amaryllid,
often called ‘‘Fall Crocus.’’ Culture like others of this type. Plant 3” deep.
They are only a little short of winter hardy in the north and should succeed in
protected situations in warmer sections of the middle south as far north as
Philadelphia. Stocks of Sternbergia are difficult to obtain and ours is limited.
They must be ordered before Sept. 10 as on that date we expect to plant all on
hand. Extra large jumbo bulbs 50c. L. 35c. M. 25c.
Tulbaghia violacea. A close relative of Agapanthus, but small enough to
plant 3 in a 5” pot. Flowers are mauve to Chinese violet in an umbel on 24”
stems. Begins soon after planting and blooms almost continuously through
the year—winter and summer. Foliage has garlic odor when bruised. 35c,
three for $1.00.
Zephyranthes rosea. The smallest. Pure pink flowers. Usually Z. grandi-
flora is sold as Z. rosea but this is the true species. Use plenty leaf mould or
peat as they need acid soil. 10c.
The Alliae. This group is now placed in the Amaryllis family. Sandy
loam is preferred. Do not add too much leaf mould and no peat as very acid
soil is not so good. Plant about 21%” deep. The species Allium are onions and
should be grown in full sun unless noted.
Allium neapolitanum grandiflorum. Large and attractive umbels of white
flowers used for cutting. Forces well in pots. Hardy only in mild climates.
6c ea. 60c doz.
A. sativum. bBurbank’s Elephant Garlic. This is the largest and sweet-
est garlic and the easiest to peel. It often makes solid bulbs about 2” in diam.
Others divide into very large cloves. Clusters of bulblets form at base like a
gladiolus. The flower and plant is an ornament in the herb garden and a
delicious flavor in salads and other proper places. Each 15c.
A. Schoenoprasum. True Chives. Lovely little plants with lavender flow-
ers, used for edgings in the flower or herb garden and add zest to salads, stews,
etc. 10c. 4 for 25c.
A. senescens. Erect strap shaped leaves. Deep lilac flowers in a dense
globular umbel. Very fine bloomer. 10c.
A. sp. Oriental Garlic. A pretty Allium with white flowers. An ornament
in the garden, indispensable in an herb garden. Leaves give a most dee-licious
flavor to salads without the long-lasting high-powered after effect of garlic.
In north, winter the plants in pots. They would probably grow in pots in the
window all winter. Plants 25c ea.
A. triquetrum. Much the finest white flowering allium, I think. The many
large flowers in a large umbel are rather drooping. It does well in full sun like
most alliums but even better in partial shade. 10c.
Broadiaea. These natives of western America are hardy in both north and
south. Culture. They may be grown in pots like Freesias, in a cool room. Fine
in the rock garden with ferns, columbine, etc., or for naturalizing. Plant 2”
deep in any soil or situation but they do best in a gritty soil and light shade.
Do not dig until necessary to thin them. Spring flowering. Our bulbs are culti-
vated bulbs, not collected, hence are larger, better and cost a little more.
Brodiaea Californica. One of the largest with stems up to 2%’ tall. 2%”,
rose purple flowers, in umbels of 10 to 20. Late spring. 15c.
B. capitata. California Hyacinth. 18” tall, up to 20 flower stems per
bulb. Planted early they bloom in six weeks. Violet blue flowers from October
to April. Fine in pots. Tc ea. 70c doz.
B. coccinea. (Brevoortia Ida-Maia) Floral Firecracker. Vivid red flowers.
Firecracker shaped. Easy and fine in pots. 12c.
B. ixioides. Golden Star. Large umbels of lovely bright yellow flowers.
Fine in pots. 7c ea. 70c doz.
B. laxa. Large umbels of bluish lavender flowers on 2’ stems. Prefers
partial shade but does well in full sun. 15c. $1.25 doz.
B. uniflora. (Triteleia uniflora). Lovely porcelain blue flowers on a low
plant. Chiefly grown in pots in north but hardy outside except in coldest
states. It is useful for edgings, in the rock garden or scattered in the lawn.
5e ea. 50c doz. Per 100, $3.00.
Leucocoryne ixioides odorata. Glory of the Sun. New. Large, fragrant
and very beautiful flowers in the early spring. Flowers are prized by florists
and expensive. Cheaper to grow your own. Culture like Freesias. 4 or 5 may
be planted in a 5” pot. 10c ea. 90c doz. Per 100, $7.00.
IRIS FAMILY. Iridaceae
The Iris is the type genus of this family. The following, from Gladiolus,
and including Moraea and Homeria belong to the Iris Family.
Gladiolus
Gladiolus are the favorites of all flowers for cutting. More of them are
grown for florists’ use and more are grown in private gardens for home decora-
tions than any other flower.
Culture. Glads planted Nov. 15 to Mar. 1 in Southern California and
thruout the south (a little later in Northern California and early as possible in
spring in the east) are reasonably sure to escape the attack of thrips. But Glad
bulbs must be early matured and early dug or they will not start early or
bloom early. Our Glad bulbs are especially grown for this purpose, matured
early and dug in August.
But if you plant recently dug bulbs you will gain nothing; they will con-
tinue their rest of three months before starting.
Thrips are very small insects that suck the juices from the plant. They
cause the flowers to wither or appear burned, and appear only after weather
becomes warm.
To avoid the damage they do, three measures are effective: Plant early;
plant clean, treated bulbs; keep them always wet by overhead sprinkling.
Gladiolus that are sprinkled one-half hour every evening by a continuous
spray will seldom show thrips damage at any time of year.
Treating bulbs. Mix 4 teaspoonfuls of Lysol in one gallon of water. Soak
the bulbs 6 hours in this solution. It may be used several times but not after
standing over one week. This is an acid solution and encourages root growth
instead of delaying it. The bulbs will start more quickly.
Do not treat bulbs bought from us. We treat before selling.
Plant 4” deep; small 3”; bulblets 2”. Twice their diameter apart. We
plant two rows, staggered in a 4” wide furrow. Rows about 20” apart. Alka-
line soils produce poor Glads. Soil should be neutral to mildly acid. Leaf
mould or peat added is useful. Peat causes soil to dry out more rapidly and
imported peat is hard to get. Domestic peat is often harmful because alkaline.
Use no fresh manure. Top mulch of leaf mould or imported peat is fine.
Keep Glads growing with plenty of water and best culture for at least two
months after flowering. Longer is better for this is the period when new bulbs
for next season are developing. It is best to dig bulbs in the south, and neces-
sary in the north.
Fertilizers. Use only Superphosphate, a small handful to 6’ of row, in
furrows on both sides, after plants are about 1’ high. Apply about once a
month. Try a short space first. If it burns, use less.
Explanation. In this list L. means large, 1144” diam or over. M. means
medium, 4%” to 14”. S. means small bulbs, blooming size. If watered very
freely small bulbs produce good spikes. We have seen 1%” Los Angeles bulbs
make plants 5 ft. high by daily sprinkling. Large bulbs bloom earlier and
throw more spikes. Prices are for one bulb. <A dozen, all of one variety,
costs ten times the price of one, unless otherwise stated. Not less than 6
(all of one variety), will be sold at dozen rates. 100 Bulbs of one sort are
sold at 70 times the cost of one, unless quantity prices are otherwise stated.
California customers must add 3% sales tax to these prices.
Orders for Glads will be filled in Nov. or early Dec. in time to plant for
earliest spring flowers. We suggest that you order at once as we fill them
in rotation. Remit with order as we connot notify you to remit when ready.
Substitution. When we are sold out of one of the varieties ordered we
usually substitute a variety as nearly like it as possible, giving equal or greater
value. If this does not meet your approval please say, ‘‘Do not substitute.’’
Aida. Deep violet blue. Early, large flowers, tall, good grower. L. 7c.
Albatross. Very large pure white. Tall. L. 6c. Per 100, $3.50.
Allemania. Immense rosolane purple (or orchid) flowers on very tall
spike. The most gorgeous of all Glads. Plant deep. L. 7c. Per 100, $5.25.
Annie Laurie. Ruffled rose pink. L. 5c. M. 3c.
Ave Maria. Early, large, tall, near-blue. L. 5c.
Bagdad. Fine large, tall, smoky old-rose. L. 5c. 100 for $2.00.
Betty Co-Ed. Soft creamy pink, like a school girl’s complexion. A small
glad that’s fine for cutting. L. 5c. 50c doz. Per 100, $2.00. M. 25c doz.
Per 100, $1.00. S. 15c doz. Per. 100, 85c.
Betty Nuthall. Early, orange, pink, yellow throat. L. 5c. Doz. 50c.
Per 100, $2.25. Med. 25c. doz. Per 100, $1.25.
Bill Sowden. Rich deep red. Very large and extra fine. L. 5c. Per
100, $3.00.
Blue Danube. Amethyst blue, darker throat. 7c.
Chas. Dickens. Tall, fine radiant purple. 8c.
Com. Koehl. Immense, glowing scarlet. L. 6c. Per. 100, $4.00.
Debonaire. La France pink with shrimp pink and cream throat. 7c.
Dr. F. E. Bennett. Flame red. One of best and easiest to grow. Favorite
for cutting. L. 5c. Per. 100, $2.50. M. 25c doz. Per 100, $1.35.
Dr. Moody. Early large lavender pink. Better and brighter than Minuet.
L..6¢... Per: 100: $3.60:
Faust. Colors indescribable. Ground color geranium pink. Outer part
of petals heavily overlaid with slate to deep livid purple. L. 8c.
Gate of Heaven. Purest rich, deep yellow. Ruffled. Well named. L. 6c.
Per 100, $4.00.
Georgette. Fine rose pink. 8c.
Golden Dream. The favorite tall deep yellow. L. 5c. Per. 100, $3.00.
Kirchoff’s New Violet. The best of this rare color. L. 7c.
La Paloma. Very early, bittersweet orange. Vivid color. L. 5c. Per
100, $3.00. M. 25c per doz. Per. 100, $1.25.
Lavender Delight. Delightful and unusual color, rose purple. L. 6c.
La Verne. Tall, large creamy yellow, flushed pink. Purple throat blotch.
Vigorous. L. 5c. M. 25e doz. 100 for $1.00. S. 15¢e doz. 100 for 75c.
Libelle. Heliotrope blue. The loveliest blue. L. 6c. |
Los Angeles. Orange, tinted pink. One bulb produces more flower spikes
than any other. Best winter grower. Such a rampant grower that it should
be planted not closer than 6” for large bulbs. Also give more water for best
flowers. L. 5c. 50c doz. Per 100, $2.25. M. 20c doz. 100 for $1.00. S. 15¢e
doz. 75c per 100. Small sizes bloom beautifully.
Margaret Fulton. Coral pink shading to rose doree on tips of petals. L. 7e.
Marmora. Tall immense smoky lavender. L. 5c. Per 100, $2.25.
Minuet. The favorite lavender. L. 5c. Per. 100, $2.50.
Mrs. Konynenburg. Most popular deep blue. L. 5c. Per. 100, $2.50.
Mrs. Leon Douglas. Tall large geranium pink, splashed darker. Plant
deep. L. 6c. ;
Pelegrina. Deep violet blue. Early, strong grower. L. 5c. Doz. 50c.
Per 100, $2.25. M. 30c doz. Per. 100, $1.25. S. 25c doz. Per. 100, $1.00.
Pfitzer’s Triumph. Immense salmon-red. L. 6c.
Pfitzer’s Yellow Wonder. Lovely soft yellow. 7c.
Picardy. The most popular Glad, for the garden or for cutting. Tall,
extra large, shrimp pink. L. 5c. Doz. 50c. Per. 100, $2.00. M. 25c¢ doz.
Per 100, $1.00. S. 15¢ doz. Per. 100, 75c.
Radiant Orange. Our largest and best true orange. <A combination of
yellow orange, salmon orange, bittersweet orange and grenadine red. ~° L. 6c.
Red Lory. Fine scarlet red with rhodamine purple throat. A fine red. L. 6c.
Red Phipps. Soft red. The florists favorite red. 7c.
Rose Marie Pfitzer. Very beautiful creamy white, suffused pink. Ruffied.
A large and beautiful flower. L. 8c.
Ruffled Gold. <A lovely ruffled yellow. L. 7e.
Salback’s Pink. Geranium pink. 7c.
Schubert. Apricot with scarlet throat. 7c. .
Sonatine. Large light pink. A good cut flower. 8c.
Star of Bethlehem. Large, pure white flower on a tall, vigorous stem.
Considered the best white in the cut flower market. L. 6c. Per. 100, $4.00.
The Orchid. Individual flowers in a corsage are easily mistaken for a
cataleya orchid in both color and form. L. 7c.
Virginia. An old stand-by and there is no sweeter red. L. 5c. Per
100, $3.00.
Wasaga. A lovely apricot. L. 5c. Per 100, $2.50.
Wurtembergia. Scarlet, with cream blotch. L. 7c.
Yellow Perfection. Medium yellow. Some think it the best. 7c.
Mixed Bulbs. A lot of bulbs are mixed accidentally. Surplus sorts are
added. Sometimes we discard new sorts that others like. This mixture in bulbs
1” to 144” diam., sizes, 1, 2 and 3 are offered at 45c doz. $2.00 per 100. M.,
100 for $1.00.
Bulblets. Picardy and Los Angeles, 40c per pint. Bagdad, Betty Co-ed,
Betty Nuthall, Golden Dream, La Paloma, Souvenir, Wasaga. 50c. per pint.
Dr. Bennett, Pelegrina. 60c pint. Fine mixture, 50c pint. Plant bulblets
very close, in a 2” wide furrow. Cover 2”. Plant early and keep wet.
Baby Gladiolus
Baby Glads may be planted Oct. to Dec. Bulbs are not good keepers into
the late season so it is better to have them planted before Nov. 15. They are
winter growers and endure light frost. Begin flowering in Feb. if early planted
and winter is mild. Continue to bloom a long time. Lovely and graceful
spikes for cutting. Thrips do not bother them in their season of growth.
Culture. Like large glads except they should be planted closer and not
so deep. They do fine in pots in a sunny window and a cool room.
California Peach Blossom. Peach blossom pink flowers. The best variety
of all for cutting, with larger flowers and better stems than other Baby Glads.
It is also the easiest to grow and less affected by bulb rots that ruin so many
sorts. Jumbo bulbs, 10c ea. 75c doz. $4.50 per 100. L. 6c ea. Doz. 50c.
Per 100, $4.00.
Watsonia
Close relative of the Gladiolus but winter growing and earlier in bloom.
They grow as tall or taller. The flowers are smaller but in very lovely spikes
useful for cutting.
Watsonias do not receive the attention they deserve. The colors are
varied in most pleasing tones and bloom early if planted early. Better
even the second and third years. Easy to have them for Decoration Day or
before in So. Calif. In most cases we have discarded names and substituted
the name of their color.
Culture. About the same as Glads. In the south they must be planted in
early fall (September best) as the bulbs sprout early. Hardy at Washington,
D. C., and probably in all climates where temperatures do not go below zero,
if planted in a well protected place, 5” or 6” deep and well mulched. But this
is speculative. We have had no experience. The bulbs need not be dug until
too crowded. Water frequently.
Burbank’s Lavender. Large lilac flowers. 8c. 75c doz. Per 100, $6.00.
Ed Sturtevant. Grenadine or light orange scarlet. 8c ea. 75c doz.
Giant Lavender. Lavender, a much misused color name is near to blue.
This flower is light rosolane purple (orchid). The most magnificent and stately
of all. Up to 8’ tall. Large flowers. 15c ea. $1.25 doz.
Grenadine Pink. A little mixed. As is, 10c ea.
Lillian Benner. A fine purple variety. 10c. 85c doz.
Liseran Purple. Another ‘‘orchid’’ tone. 8c ea. 75c doz.
Rose Pink. Contains rogues. As is 10c ea.
Rosolane Purple. ‘‘Orchid.’’ 8c ea. 75c doz.
Scarlet. 8c ea.
Marginata. <A species uniquely different. Very tall, slender, straight
spikes with small flowers surrounding the stem for as much as upper 3’. Many
lavender tones. Fine in flower arrangements. 10c ea. $1.00 doz. $7.50 per 100.
White. Its pure white flowers make it the favorite Watsonia of many. 6c
ea. 60c doz.
Assorted Colors. Several colors included in a mixture. 6c ea. 60c doz.
Per 100, $3.75.
Iris
Iris. Tall Bearded Iris are rightly called the Poor Man’s Orchids. They
may be planted any time of the year. If you are interested in a list, priced on
an economy basis.at 5c each and up send for our Iris Price List. Lists both
bearded and beardless Iris but use this catalog for Bulbous Iris.
Iris reticulata. This, smallest of bulbous Iris, is most useful for potting.
Fragrant, violet blue flowers in January to February. Four bulbs in a 5” pot.
Give a sunny window in a cool room. Hardy in south and in north if well pro-
tected. 25c ea. or 4 for 80c.
Dutch and Spanish Iris are about the same thing. They are bulbous. The
flowers are fragile like the Bearded Iris and are very useful for cutting.
Culture. Plant in the fall. Early planting is advisable though we have
planted as late as December. But late planted bulbs do not grow 100% nor are
the flowers as good. Plant about 3” deep and 4” apart. We plant double rows
in a furrow like glads. Plant in full sun or partial shade. They should be well
watered. They are hardy in eastern states but a mulch is advisable. They like
wood ashes or lime in soil, as others do.
Hart Nibbrig. Lovely clear blue. 6c ea. 50c doz. Per 100, $3.00.
Imperator. Tall, large blue. 7c ea. 50c doz. Per 100, $2.90.
Poggenbeck. Upper petals violet blue; lower, azure with yellow blotch.
8c ea. 65c doz.
Van Everdingen. Upper petals, creamy white; lower, light yellow with
deep yellow blotch. Large 10c ea. 90c doz.
White Excelsior. The largest pure white. 7c ea. 65c doz.
Yellow Queen and Cajanus. Nearly identical. If out of one will send the
other. Tall, deep yellow, small flowers. 7c ea. 65c doz.
Mixed. Colors included are not known but likely no yellow. Field run
sizes from largest down to smaller blooming size. 25 for $1.00.
Freesia
Freesias combine delicious fragrance with exquisite beauty. They are in-
dispensable in the outside garden, or the window garden, and for cutting.
Culture. They are not hardy except in mild southern climates. Do not
plant outside where temperatures go under about 26°. Plant outdoors early,
before October if possible, though they do well when planted as late as Novem-
ber 30. But late planted bulbs will grow short stems and smaller flowers.
Plant 18 to the foot, or 12 in a single row. Cover two inches. Rich sandy
loam is the best soil but they do very well in heavy soil. Give full sun exposure.
No spring flowering bulbs are more satisfactory in pots or window boxes
inside. No incense, no fragrance nor beauty can be had for so little expense
or trouble. Plant 2” apart in pots or boxes. Place at once in the sunniest
window in a cool room. Few winter flowering bulbs like hot rooms. Do not
water heavily until up. Large bulbs started early often bloom by Christmas
or soon after.
Our Freesias are a larger size than last year hence some of them cost a
few cents more per dozen. Others cost less.
Apothoese. Large flowers opening mauve lilac and turning to carmine
pink. Tall. 45c doz. $2.50 per 100.
Golden Daffodil. The most popular Freesia and the very best for growing
in pots. Deep golden yellow. 45c doz. $2.50 per 100.
Golden Wonder. Large very fine new yellow. 7c ea. 60c doz.
Orchidea. Soft pearly mauve with yellow throat. Tall, strong stem with
5 extra large flowers open at one time. New. 7c ea. 60c doz.
Pink Supreme. The supreme pink. 45c doz. $2.50 per 100.
Purity Superflora, Improved Purity. Earliest, best white for forcing in
pots or in garden. The most fragrant. 35c doz. $2.25 per 100.
Penserosa. Enormous flowers on tall stems. Soft pink with carmine throat
and markings. New. 45c doz. $2.50 per 100.
Rose Supreme. Like Pink Supreme but a little darker. 45c doz. $2.50
per 100.
Sunset. Vivid apricot orange. Very fine. 45c doz. $2.50 per 100.
White Chief. Largest and purest white Freesia. Later than Purity. 5c ea.
50c doz.
Tecolote Hybrids. These are the largest Freesias ever developed. The im-
mense flowers are borne on stems often 2’ or more in height under ideal condi-
tions. In order to get large flowers and tall stems you need large bulbs, so we
offer these in assorted colors and the larger bulbs at 15c ea. $1.25 per doz.
Tecolote hybrids in separate colors. Pure White, Blue, Pink, Lavender-
blue, Rose-pink, Lavender-pink, Light Yellow, Bright Red. Your choice 20c ea.
$1.75 doz.
Freesia Special. Assorted colors. White may be omitted if you request it.
40 for $1.00. :
Sparaxis
Intermediate between Freesias and Ixias. They are the most vividly col-
ored of spring flowering bulbs. Large flowers on an 8” to 12” stem. Culture,
like Freesias. Fine also in pots. They are more hardy than Freesias and can
be grown in colder sections.
Assorted Colors, with reds predominating or with light colors predominat-
ing. Hither mixture 6c ea., 45c doz.
Bloem Erf Hybrids (or Streptanthera-Sparaxis hybrids). Larger, taller
and a greater variety of colors. Very fine. 10 ea. 75e doz.
Streptanthera cuprea. Very much like Sparaxis but more orange. 7c ea.
60c doz.
Tritonia
Tritonias are very close to Freesias. They are taller and flowers are
larger. The culture is the same except that being larger a little more space is
given. You can plant 214” apart in double row and 2%” deep. They may be
grown in the house but also like Freesias they must have sun.
Prince of Orange. Looks like a huge orange Freesia. 3 for 10c. 35c doz.
$2.25 per 100.
Ixia
Ixias grow about 28” to 5’ tall. They have long, wiry stems and are nice
for cutting. Altho the flowers close at night and on dark days, the long closed
buds are nicely colored and are attractive either closed or open.
Culture. Ixias are tender bulbs and in colder climates can be planted in
the early spring. If planted in protected situations and well mulched in the
fall the bulbs will survive most climates.
In the north they may also be grown in a cold frame or in pots in the house
or greenhouse. Give full sun. In mild climates in the south, plant early pref-
erably. Although bulbs planted as late as January should flower well.
Plant about like Freesias but allowing more room, 12 to the foot in a
double row. Use no animal fertilizer, unless thoroughly rotted.
Ixia Bloem Erf Hybrids. Quite distinct and different from ordinary sorts.
Height 4’ to 5’. White to pink with lavender and bluish tones. Flowers do
not close at night. The slender spikes are lovely in bouquets. Bloom in the
late spring. 7c ea. 60c doz. 100 for $4.90.
Mrs. Cleveland’s. Variety unknown; so labeled at present in memory of
one who grew them. Color creamy white. When closed the flowers are like a
long, slender ovoid, each creamy petal crimson striped thru the center. Lovely
in bouquets or garden. Jumbo bulbs 6c ea. 50c doz. $3.50 per 100. Large
bulbs 40c doz. $2.50 per 100.
Dutch Hybrids. The colors range through white, yellow, lavender, pink
and red tones. Very fine. 15c ea. $1.25 per doz.
Lapeyrousia cruenta. Often called Red Ixia or Scarlet Freesia. They do
not become as tall as Ixias. They have very nice, soft red flowers that do not
close at night or on cloudy days. Culture like Ixias and Freesias. Easy in
pots in sunny window. 5c ea. 35c doz.
Babiana
Related to Freesias, Tritonias, etc., but quite distinct in appearance.
Usually 8” or 10” tall, with pretty plaited leaves. Bloom in early spring.
Culture like Fresias. Lovely in pots. Plant 6 in a 4” pot for a sunny window.
Outside for edgings and rock gardens. ‘3
Babiana Hybrids. Fine mixture of shades of pink, red and blue, the blue
predominating. 5c ea. 50c doz. $4.00 per 100.
Marica
Marica gracilis. Walking Iris or Apostle Plant. Beautiful but fugitive 2”
flowers of white and blue with yellow and brown markings in center. Sword
shaped leaves are very ornamental. <A very nice pot plant in north and quite
hardy in south. Very oddly, the flowers are followed by a small plant. The
leaflike stem bends over and plants take root, thus ‘‘walking’’ away from
mother plant. Requires nearly full shade, plenty water. Hardy only in far
south. The usual price is 50c to $1.00. Special, 40c ea.
M. coerulea grandiflora. The giant of this genus. Leaves 3’ or more in
height. Large lavender and white flowers. Rare. This was collected for us
in Costa Rica. Will survive only a few degrees of frost. Price, $5.00.
Moraea
The Moraea Tribe includes Moraea, Dietes and Homeria. None are hardy
in the north but make very nice pot plants. Dietes can be grown in pots or
tubs in the garden in summer and wintered in light basement, soil not too dry.
The Moraeas are the African representatives of the Iris. They have a
multitude of lovely and delicate flowers resembling gay butterflies on branch-
ing wiry stems. Iris-like in appearance. They flower through spring and sum-
mer, and some will begin even in the fall, and continue through winter if not
too cold.
Culture. The bulbs may be planted about 3” deep and 6” apart in fall.
Do well in full sun or partial shade. They are quite hardy in the south but in
north the bulbs cannot be planted until very early spring. Obtain bulbs in fall
and store in cellar. They do well in pots and are very unusual and attractive.
In the south they are very desirable in the garden, a real ‘‘must have’’ item
for borders or rock garden. We list only the best species.
Moraea polystachya. Two foot plant covered with myriads of loveliest
flowers that look like butterflies. Petals are mauve, penciled with violet and
have a bright yellow signal blotch or eye. Blooms 6 weeks after planting and
continues 3 or 4 months. A most desirable new bulb. L.10c. 75c doz. $6.50
per 100. Smaller blooming size bulbs 50c doz.
M. ramosa. Similar in appearance but twice as tall and flowers are amber
yellow with oval of yellow surrounded by dark blue in throat. Stream side
plant that likes plenty of water. Very beautiful in pots or garden. 15c. $1.50
per doz.
M. ramosissima. Very similar to M. ramosa but blooms one month later
and flowers are amber yellow with oval of lemon yellow with a dark line
around, at base of falls. Has dark spots on claw. 15c ea. $1.50 doz.
M. tristis. Flowers 14%” across and desirable for their most unusual color.
Olive green and grey, with small yellow, violet edged blotch at base of outer
segments. Plant is 1’ to 114’ tall, a nice size for pots or rock gardens. 15c ea.
Dietes. This genus also belongs to the Moraea tribe, in fact they have only
recently been removed from the Moraea and given a new generic name. Dietes
differ from Moraea in having a rhizome, similar to Bearded Iris, and sword-
like leaves. Flowers are very much like those of Moraea, borne on long, wiry
stems thruout summer into winter. Culture like Iris.
Dietes catanulata. Low growing species with waxy white flowers on a tall,
perennial stem. 50c ea.
D. Oakhurst hybrids. New hybrids that soon make large clumps that are
very ornamental in the garden. Flowers freely in summer with a few most of
the time in winter. 2” flowers on 4’ stems. $1.00.
D. iridioides. White with yellow and blue markings. 25c ea.
D. iridioides Johnsonii. Flowers are about twice the diameter of the type
variety above. Plant more robust. True variety. 50c.
Homeria collina belongs to the Moraea tribe. There are one or two long
leaves from the base of which arises a 24” graceful stem with orange flowers
that last but one day, but so plentifully produced that there is a succession for
at least six weeks. Culture like Moraea. Hardy in south. In the north the
bulbs may be planted in the spring but must be purchased in fall and stored in
a cool cellar to retard growth. 6c ea. 50c doz.
LILY FAMILY. Liliaceae
The type species is the Lilium or true Lily. Many call any bulbous flower
a lily. Crinums, Callas, Cannas, though often called Lilies are not.
Lilium. The Lily is considered as one of nature’s most beautiful creations
and hybridizers have accomplished little in its improvement. Their culture is
not difficult. They should be moved in late fall or winter, and before new
growth begins. Lily bulbs are better if not stored dry for more than a very
short period. When possible we furnish bulbs recently dug and with living
roots attached. Plant 4” to 6” deep at once. The best soil is a deep and well
drained sandy loam. It is best to place a handful of sand under bulb and
another around it. Reasonably rich soil is good but use no manure or fertilizer
when planting. Leaf mould, well decayed and well mixed with soil is good
for them. The ideal situation is among shrubs or plants that shade the ground
and keep their feet cool. But the tops like to rear themselves into full sun-
light in order to keep their heads warm. Lilies need mildly acid soil. All may
be grown in pots but L. Harrisii is preferred. Lilies should be well protected
by a mulch over winter in the north to protect the bulb from freezing.
Lilium formosanum. Large white flowers. Very hardy and easy to grow.
Bulbs small. 20c ea. 3 for 50c.
L. Harrisii. The true Bermuda Easter Lily. These do well in S. California
and other mild climates, in the garden. The flowers are the purest white of any
and they. are the most refined in outline and form. L. 25¢ ea.
L. regale. Large, fragrant white flowers tinted pink, creamy throat.
Bulbs increase and get better every year. Small bulbs usually give only one
to three flowers but we offer large bulbs that will make tall many flowered
stem. 25c ea. Small bulbs 15c ea., 8 for $1.00.
Gloriosas are very close to the true lilies. They have a tuber instead of a
bulb and the plants are climbing. They must be supported by stakes and will
cling to a support by tendrils at the apex of the leaves. The flowers are more
gorgeous even than the Liliums, vividly colored, red with yellow markings,
later turning deep pure red. They are equal to orchids in a corsage. The
species vary somewhat in color and size of flowers and form of plant. G.
superba is much the taller, producing more but smaller flowers. It is also the
latest to come up and flowers later. G. rothschildiana is the earliest, G. vire-
scens, next.
Culture. They must have sandy, well drained soil. Incorporate plenty of
well rotted leaf mold. They do quite well in either full sun or half shade. In
California and the south plant from early January to March. Since our seasons
are long they may even be planted in May or June but earlier is advisable. In the
north, with a short season of growth, start the tubers about March 1 in a warm
sunny window, watering little until they come up. Shift to garden when warm.
Plant the tubers horizontally about 3” or 4” deep and 6” apart. They need
much water.
Gloriosa rothschildiana. Very vividly colored and an outstanding plant.
We sell 3 sizes. All bloom well but the larger tubers make a larger plant and
many more flowers. .Prices, 50c, $1.00 and $1.50 each.
G. virescens. A more rare species. The flowers are slightly rose tinted,
and tho it closely resembled Rothschildiana the general effect of the plant is a
little superior to it. Price $2.00 ea.
G. superba. Though the individual flowers are smaller and less vivid
there are many more of them and the plant will grow (from large tubers)
several feet taller. Price $1.25 ea.
Tulips
Our Tulips are grown in America by an imported Dutchman, in Washing-
ton. This is the best climate and soil in the world for Tulips and the Dutch
are the best growers. We believe our bulbs are sounder and better than im-
ported bulbs. We do not offer top size bulbs. They are twice as expensive and
break up into small bulbs the first year. Ours are 7 - 9 cm. or about 1” in diam.
and they grow larger the first year, making a few offsets, instead of breaking
up into many small bulbs.
We consider it advisable to use this size for bedding because of relative
cost, second year performance and because this size with proper culture pro-
duces excellent flowers the first year. Our customers report 2’ stems and good
medium size flowers. The flowers are saleable in the wholesale flower market.
But late planted Tulips from any size bulb do not flower satisfactorily. Bulbs
planted in October to November do well. Those planted in early December do
fairly well. Last year we planted left over bulbs in late February. Most of
them grew. Practically all the Clara Butt flowered and possibly half of the
others. But flowers were small and on stems only about 1’ long.
Don’t forget that Tulips grow underground all winter. If rains are not
sufficient keep the soil moist by irrigation. Tulips kept on dry side all winter
will be very poor.
Tulip Prices. Assorted Darwin, Cottage, Breeder and Triumph, all late
single Tulips, the sorts that do well in the south and better anywhere. For the
sake of brevity in advertising we call them simply, Darwin Tulips. Size 7 em—
9 cm, approximately 1” diameter. You may have assorted varieties or all Clara
Butt. 50c per doz. 25 for $1.00. $3.00 per 100. $13.50 per 500. $25.00
per 1000.
Named varieties of Tulips. If you prefer to have certain colors, or named
varieties instead of general mixture, choose from this list.
Red. Boadicea, Europe, Farncombe Sanders, Gesneriana spathulata, King
Harold, La Merveille, *Pride of Haarlem, Wm. Pitt.
Pink. Barrone de la Tocnaye, Clara Butt, John Ruskin (yellow pink),
*Madam Krelage, *Mozart (deep rosy pink).
Yellow. *Avis Kennicott, *Gesneriana lutea, Inglescombe Yellow,
*Moonlight.
Bronze. Bronze Queen, Hamlet, U.S.A.
Other Colors. Andre Doria (deep maroon), Bleu Aimable (blue- violet),
*Oardinal Manning (rosy purple), *Hippolyte (deep lavender), Idyll (old rose),
Orange King (orange), *Picotee (white with pink edge), Roi d’Islande (old
rose). }
You may order by the colors, as Red Tulips, or by name of the variety,
as Wm. Pitt, etc. If we are sold out of the variety named we will substitute
another variety of similar color.
Prices. Single bulbs, labelled, 10c ea. in any quantity; 6 bulbs, one vari-
ety, labelled, 40c; 12 bulbs, one variety, labelled, 70c; 18 bulbs, one variety,
labelled, $1.00; 100 bulbs, one or two varieties, labelled, $4.00; 500 bulbs, one
to five varieties, labelled, $18.00; 1000 bulbs, one to ten varieties, labelled,
$35.00.
Prices of starred varieties 10% more. Thus lle ea. 6 for 44c, 12 for
atc, ete:
Calochortus venustus. Mariposa Lily or Calif. Tulips. Spanish settlers
called them Butterfly Tulips because the flower markings are like butterfly’s
wings. Resemble Tulips and are closely related. Plant 3” deep (deeper in
north) in well drained sandy soil to which leaf mould has been added. No
fertilizer. Full sun or slight shade. Water sparingly when growing. Should
have none when dormant in summer. Hardy.
Two varieties are considered best. Citrinus, deep rich yellow with black
eye. 6c. Vesta, 3” to 5” flowers. White, flushed lilac. Red center. Considered
the best of all. Prefers heavy soil, does well in any. 10c.
Colchicum. They arouse much interest because they may be laid on a
table, without soil or water, and will flower thus.
Plant in a border or rockery before Sept. 10 if possible. They will flower
in storage in spite of us so please order very early. They are recommended
for full sun or half shade. Here, we think our full sun is too “‘full’’ and prefer
slight shade. Keep them dry when dormant. They may be grown in pots.
Owing to their habit of flowering before foliage appears they look nicer
among low plants and suggest Sedums. Each bulb usually produces several
spikes. Prices—L. 40c ea., M. 30c. Small Sedum Clump, 15c.
Hyacinths. For obvious reasons, it is impossible for most dealers to offer
Dutch Hyacinths. Supplies of Roman Hyacinths are much below last year’s
stocks. Other Hyacinth relatives may be substituted. We advise Scillas, Lach-
enalias, Muscari and Veltheimias. The closest in resemblance to the Roman
Hyacinth is Scilla hispanica, and America’s supply of these is dwindling rapidly.
Roman Hyacinths, Their culture is easier than that of Dutch Hyacinths.
They are very fragrant and send up several spikes from each bulb. Plant 3”
deep in south, a little deeper in north with a mulch for winter protection in far
north. Rich sandy loam is best soil and part shade preferred. Their bed
should not receive too much water when they are dormant but they need abun-
dant water when growing.
Blue Roman Hyacinths, 15c ea. $1.50 doz.
White Roman Hyacinths, 25c ea. $2.25 doz.
Pink Roman Hyacinths, 50c ea. $4.00 doz.
Dutch Hyacinths. We can grow these but did not attempt it when we
could depend on Holland as a source. Now we have only about 50 of a good
blooming size, ranging from 1” to nearly 2” diam. You will need to want them
very much to pay the price we are willing to sell for. We have several named
varieties and some are mixed. If you order, we will try to supply the color
nearest what you want. But do not order unless you are willing to accept a
substitute color, because if you do order a blue we may have to send a pink or
white. Price, largest size on hand, $1.00 ea. Smaller sizes, 1” or more, 75c ea.
Muscari. Grape Hyacinths. var. Heavenly Blue or Assorted Blue varieties.
Racemes of closely placed, exquisite, tiny blue bells. Fine in pots or garden.
Largest size, 10c ea., 90c doz. Large, 7c ea., 60c doz.
Scillas are closely related to Hyacinths. Scilla hispanica and S. nonscripta
look so much like Roman Hyacinths that they are often confused with them.
All are useful in the garden or in pots and for cutting. All are hardy in the
north except S. peruviana.
Scilla hispanica (campanulata). Blue. This species requires half shade.
8c ea. 75c per doz.
S. hispanica., var. “Sky Blue.’’ Lighter color, large and later. 12c¢ ea.
$1.00 doz.
S. hispanica, var. Arnold Prinson. The largest blue and longest spikes.
Late. 15c ea. $1.25 doz. .
S. hispanica alba. White flowers. 8c ea. 75c doz.
S. hispanica, var. Alba Maxima. Tallest and largest white. 15c ea. $1.25
doz.
S. hispanica rosea. Pink flowers. 12c ea. $1.15 doz.
S. hispanica. Assorted colors, many choice. Assorted sizes. Some are
small but all should bloom. 10c ea. 85c doz.
S. nonscripta rosea. The species is very much like hispanica. Rosy pink.
Half shade. 15c ea. $1.25 doz.
S. hyacinthoides. One of the finest bulbs for the outside garden as it is
perfectly winter hardy in north. It has a densely’ flowered raceme often 3 ft.
or more in height. Plant in full sun. If early planted, in the south it will
flower in late winter to spring. In the north about mid-summer. Flowers are
very useful for cutting. The bulb is extremely hardy and a strong grower and
will even recover when left out of the ground a year. Take my advice, plant
it. Top size, 25c; M., 15c. $2.35 and $1.50 doz.
S. peruviana. The short scape is terminated by a many-flowered, broad
and compact raceme. This is the only Scilla that is not hardy in the north but
there it is a most useful and easily grown pot bulb. Grow it in a very cool
room. It needs full sun exposure. Assorted blue tones, 35c. Assorted whites,
white to cream and sometimes with very light lilac to lavender markings, 35c.
General mixture, 30c ea. $2.50 doz.
Camassia leichtlinii. Lavender blue to aconite blue. Hardy north or
south. Close relative of Scilla, with flowers in a spreading raceme on a tall
stem. Plant 4” deep, 4” apart in full sun or slight shade. 25c ea. $2.15 per doz.
Ornithogalums are closely related to Hyacinths and Scillas. Horticultur-
ally there are two groups, tender and hardy. The tender ones are nice subjects
for pot culture in the north, and for the garden in mild southern climates.
They may be stored over winter in the north and planted outside very early.
Ornithogalum arabicum. The showiest species. The round black ovary in
the center of the white flower is a beautiful contrast. Flowers in a compact
raceme at top of stem giving the appearance of an umbel. Tender. Easy in
pots. Super jumbo bulbs 25c. L. 20c; M. 15c; S. 10c.
O. caudatum. A familiar pot plant in the north which is commonly but
erroneously called ‘‘Sea Onion.’’ The foliage and flowers are pretty but not
outstanding. L. 50c; Jumbo, 75c.
O. nutans. Lovely flowers of a most unusual color, appearing to be silver
and white as a result of the green on back of the petals showing thru the white
upper side. Margined white. Hardy. 15c. $1.25 per doz.
O. thrysoides. 15” stems topped by a dense, white flowered raceme, 3”
wide. Flowers when cut will last six weeks and are shipped from South Africa
to the London market. Tender. Easy in pots. 10c ea. 75c doz.
Lachenalias
Lachenalias, or Cape Cowslips, furnish bright colorful flowers from before
Christmas to February and later. They are small plants, usually one or two
leaves. Flower scape 6” to 12” tall, with 12 to 24 tubular flowers about 1”
long. For early flowers start them early in September and in no case delay
beyond late October to plant. Leaves and stems are sometimes gaily spotted
and decorative. Culture. Easy outside in mild climates and force easily in
pots in the house. Plant in full sun, 2” deep and 2” apart. Several can be
planted in a pot at about 21%4” apart. They may be grown outside or in flats
and potted when in full bloom. When tops die, dig bulbs and store dry. They
rot easily in the ground if moisture is received when dormant.
Lachenalia Ada Bryson. Flowers orange yellow, buds and ends of spikes
reddish. Blooms late December. Leaves spotted reddish. Bright and attrac-
tive. 20c ea. $2.00 per doz.
L. F..W. Burbridge. Flowers most pleasing. An unusual combination of
red, yellow and chartreuse green tipped with maroon. Maroon spots on leaves
and stem. Blooms for Christmas. 20c ea. $2.00 per doz.
L. Rector of Cawston. Flowers scarlet, citron and green. Free blooming.
Leaves spotted red. 15c ea. $1.50 per doz. $12.00 per 100.
Veltheimia
Veltheimia viridifolia. Neither a picture nor words can accurately portray
the beauty of this plant. For foliage alone it is superior. The vivid green
leaves are wavy margined and form a nice rosette. In pots, or in the garden
in So. Calif. and other mild climates, it is in bloom by Dec. 15 and continues
for about three months as large bulbs send up two or more spikes. The tubular,
drooping flowers are densely placed on a long raceme. The color is a deep rosy
or purplish pink of ineffablestones not found in any other flowers.
Culture is very easy. It prefers a sandy soil to which peat or leaf mould
has been added. In pots the drainage should be perfect. They must be ordered
early as nothing holds them back. Best to order before Sept. 15 or Oct. 1.
Specially priced. 50c ea. $6.00 per doz. Extra large bulbs—75c, $1.00 ©
and $1.50 ea.
OXALIS FAMILY. Oxalidaceae
There are awo types, the winter and the summer growing. The summer
growing species are listed in our spring catalogs. The following are all winter
growers. These are the brightest and most vivid of winter flowers for a sunny
window or in the garden in the south. They give a profusion of bloom over
several months’ period. A bed looks like a carpet of solid pink, rose, white,
yellow, etc. The flowers are large, some over 1” diam.
Culture. Plant about 2” deep, 3” apart. Large bulbs may be farther apart
and a little deeper. In pots, the smaller may go 3 to 6 in a 4” or 5” pot. Use
good rich soil, although they will grow in any soil. Give full sun exposure as
they open only in full sun and close at night. Order and plant early as they
begin to sprout even in August. But they may be shipped even with long
sprouts up to mid-October.
Oxalis Bowiei. A large plant with bright rose red flowers. 3 bulbs to a 5”
pot. 5c ea. 50c doz. $3.75 per 100. Largest size 10c ea.
O. cernua. Bermuda Buttercup. Deep golden yellow flowers. Very pro-
fuse. 3 for10c. 35c doz. $2.50 per 100. Largest size 10c ea.
O. Grand Duchess. Low growing plants, but give a profusion of large
flowers in three colors. The Pink and the Lavender varieties are 5c ea. 45c doz.
$3.00 per 100. White—7c ea. 60c doz. $4.75 per 100.
O. hirta. One of the finest winter Oxalis, and most unusual as it makes a
leafy stem that to some extent falls over and will trail down the sides of a pot.
Nice for hanging baskets. The flowers are large and deep rosy red. Super
jumbo bulbs, diam. 1” and up, the best blooming size for pots, 25c ea., $2.25
doz., $15.00 per 100; L. 15c ea., $1.25 doz., $10.00 per 100; M. 10c ea., 85ce
doz., $5.00 per 100; S. 5c ea., 40c per doz., $3.00 per 100. Smaller sizes are
likely to flower under ideal conditions but otherwise not too sure.
Oxalis Special. The bulbs offered in this lot are assorted in size but some
are small. They will all flower well. Some are accidentally mixed, others are
surplus. Price 30 for $1.00.
THE ORCHID FAMILY. Orchidaceae
Orchids are the most exquisite of flowers, but most of them require a
greenhouse. The Bletilla is a terrestial orchid of great beauty and easy to grow
in the outside garden. Hardy everywhere, north or south. Culture easy. Plant
in half shade, 3” deep in a good loamy soil to which plenty of leaf mould is
added. Give plenty of water in summer.
Bletilla hyacintha. Eight or more dainty orchids, 1” wide, on a 12” stem.
True orchid color. Top size, 50c. M. 35c. Blooming sizes, $25.00 per 100.
B. hyacintha alba. Pure white form. 75c ea.
Epidendrum o’brienanum. This orchid has a large terminal cluster of
brilliant red flowers, each in the typical orchid form. The flowers open 10 or
more at once and are about 14%,” wide. The plant makes a large cluster of tall
stems, 3 ft. or more. In nature they grow among grasses or weeds which sup-
port them. We can imitate that by growing among erect plants.
They need hot, full sun exposure; an abundance of water in summer. They
grow easily in the garden in the south where minimum temperatures are not
below 27°.
They like a deep mulch of leaves, small branches, etc. This helps to sup-
port the stems, protects the roots when too cold, (ours easily recovered from
a low of 20°) and maintains the needed constant moisture of soil.
We use soil of rich sandy loam and for a distance of nearly one foot, we
add 50% peat (in volume) to the soil.
They grow easily in pots or baskets. Use 50% or more peat or leaf mould.
Prices. Branch with roots attached 75c. Large clumps, up in proportion
to size.
THE CALLA LILY FAMILY. Araceae
This family contains the so-called Calla Lilies or Zantedeschia, Black
Callas and other Aroids.
Culture. All Zantedeschias and Arum palaestinum are suitable for pot
culture. A. palaestinum will start about September or later. Do not put this
bulb into moist soil before that or it will rot. Zantedeschias—pink, yellow,
spotted leaf and melanoleuca may be potted by about December 15. Don’t rush
them as too much water before they start to grow may rot them. They may be
held back and started in early spring, here in late February. All do well in the
garden in a moist, semi-shaded cool place. They are not hardy in cold climates;
dig in fall. The White Calla usually blooms in California in the garden in late
winter. They may be planted in early fall in pots or garden.
It is an error to keep White Callas growing continuously. If rested
through summer you will be rewarded with flowers. A rest brings flowers when
they start again, often twice or more in a year. The Baby Calla should not
be allowed to lose its foliage. Callas as pot plants need some sun.
Zantedeschia aethiopica, var. Baby Calla. This is the smallest and whitest
calla. Small enough for corsage. 20c, 3 for 50c. $1.50 per doz.
Z. aethiopica, var. Godfrey Calla. The best and most popular of dwarf
Callas before ‘‘Baby’’ was introduced. Being twice as large as ‘‘Baby’’ makes
it a ‘“‘medium”’ size. This is so much more appropriate in size, freer in bloom-
ing and more desirable in every way that we do not recommend the large
type. 20c.
Z. aethiopica, unknown European variety. This variety is about the size
of the ordinary large white calla, possibly not quite so tall. The flowers are
exceedingly white and more wide open, larger and distinctly different in form.
The plant is more inclined to remain evergreen and to flower in summer and
more free blooming in all seasons. $1.00 ea.
Z. albo-maculata. Spotted leaf-calla. The prettiest foliage of all and worth
growing for that alone. Endures sun best. Flowers, creamy white with dark
throat. Large 15c, 20 and 25c.
Z. elliotiana. Pure golden yellow flowers. Requires more shade than
others. 15c to 25c. All blooming size.
Z. melanoleuca. Black Throated Calla. New and rare calla. Plant larger
than Yellow Calla and spotted foliage even more decorative. The flower spathe
is large, yellow and widely flaring. Margins and tip recurve and reveal an
ample black-purple throat blotch. Stock scarce, order early. M. $1.00. L. $1.50.
7%. rehmannii. Pink Calla. Color varies from rose pink to deep rosy red
and purple. A number will show a great variety of shades as they fade into
new ones. S. 25c. M. 50c. L. 75c. Jumbo $1.00.
Amorphophallus rivieri. 3’ tall with rich tropical foliage. Flowers 3’
long, rich chocolate, dotted red. Bad odor at first. Only immense bulbs bloom.
Plant in at least half shade, 4” deep. In the north grow in pots or dig and
store in late fall. Not sure to bloom first year. Smaller sizes for 25c and 50c.
M. $1.00 to $1.25. Our largest blooming sizes $2.00 and $2.50.
Arum palaestinum. Black Calla or Solomon’s Lily. Foliage and flower
like callas. Really black. Plant 4” deep and not before September 1. If not
kept perfectly dry until that time the bulbs rot. Flowers in February in pots
or in the garden in the south. No bad odor. Best in half shade. Small
blooming size 35c. Doz. $3.25. Large, 50c. Doz. $5.00. Jumbo 75c. Doz. $7.50.
A. italicum. Ivory flower. Foliage veined white, ornamental. Hardy in
north. 25c and 40c ea. $1.50 and $2.50 doz.
A. maculatum. Very much like A. italicum but has plain green leaves.
Rare, $1.00.
Dracunculus vulgaris. Gorgeous tropical foliage with large black-purple
flowers with bad odor when first opened. Hardy in north if planted 8” to 12”
deep and mulched. 35c and 65c ea. $3.00 and $6.00 per doz.
Sauromatum venosum. Odd tropical foliage, and the most unusual flower,
with a spathe 16” long, 1” wide, yellow with purple-black spots. Spathe lies
on the ground, hence the common name, Lizard Lily. Dry bulbs will bloom out
of ground. Disagreeable odor. Need shade, plenty water. Large plants sug-
gest tropical jungle. Hardy. S: 25e. L. $1.00 to $1.50 ea.
RANUNCULUS AND ANEMONES. Ranunculaceae
These have recently become among our most popular flowers. Their vivid
colors, cheapness and the easy culture well fit them for a top rank in amateur
gardens.
Ranunculus range in color from red, pink, white to yellow. There is no
blue. If well grown and from a good strain the flowers are very double, in a
variety of shapes.
Anemones are red, pink, white and blue in a variety of tones, but no
yellow. They should be grown with Ranunculus to make a complete color
range. There are two types. The De Caen have huge poppy-like single flowers.
These are our favorites. The St. Brigid have double flowers and many prefer
them.
Culture of Anemones and Ranunculus is very easy if one conforms to their
requirements. The soil should be rich. Sandy loam is better than heavy soil.
Heavy soils may be made suitable with humus. The plants need constant
moisture, and drying out or baking of the soil only once will result in less per-
fect flowers, and may be fatal. The beds should be well drained and never
SOgey.
Plant 1” or 2” deep and 4” to 6” apart, depending on size. Do not soak the
bulbs. When weather is dry and warm a slight cover of brush helps and also
keeps birds away. A shade of cloth or lath is good. They like cool conditions
and the greatest threat is a heat wave shortly after planting. Heat and mois-
ture combined rot the bulbs. It is best to delay planting until weather is cool,
but if hot weather follows, put up shade. One can gain a couple of weeks on
the chances of hot weather by sprouting the bulbs before planting. Fold the
bulbs in a wet burlap sack and lay in the cool shade of a tree. Plant before
sprouts are over 1”.
A very good comparison for the culture requirements of these bulbs is that
of Sweet Peas. You would not plant sweet pea seed in July or August, nor in
September if it were hot or likely to be. Nor does the wise gardener soak his
sweet pea seed. Sweet peas need cool weather, very rich deep soil, but no raw
manure. The seed bed must be kept slightly moist, but well drained. The soil
must never bake or have.a crust formed. You must protect the young plants
from birds, cut worms, snails, etc.
Just substitute “Ranunculus and Anemones’’ for ‘‘Sweet Peas’’ and you
have their culture requirements.
In cool climates like that around San Francisco bay the bulbs may be
planted almost any time of year. In the north they may be planted as early in
the spring as the ground may be worked. They are not hurt by temperatures
considerably under 32°. We have had them keep on blooming and growing
when our night temperatures reach 20°.
A north Texas customer tells us that she planted 100 of our Ranunculus
in the fall. They came up but the temperature later dropped unexpectedly to
a little below zero. About 6 plants survived and bloomed beautifully in early
spring. Probably if the temperature had been no lower than 10° F all would
have survived.
Important. Few gardeners know that Ranunculus and Anemones are
better when held out of the ground a year than the recently dug crop. It seems
that the processes performed by the enzymes in such dry, hard bulbs is not
completed as rapidly as in a semi-moist bulb like a Gladiolus or Amaryllis.
One source of failure with these may be that the grower of the bulbs was
not able to ripen his crop early. Hot weather sometimes ruins his early planted
seed beds and he may have replanted as late as December. Thus his crop was
not ready to dig until perhaps August. An unsuspecting customer thinks he
will plant very early in September or October. Result, poor germination, poor
plants, slow growth. By late November the bulbs would have done well.
To eliminate this source of trouble, we have our bulbs grown in a cool
coastal region where early planting and hence early maturing are possible.
But we are adopting a still more effective safeguard. We are offering this
fall, for early orders, one year old Ranunculus and Anemones in sizes No. 2, 3
and 4. These bulbs will start earlier, grow more rapidly and bloom earlier
than the 1942 crop. In order to obtain these order early. They are not only
much better for early planting but preferable through the season.
One year old bulbs will appear slightly smaller because there is continuous
but slight shrinkage during the dormant period of all bulbs.
The size usually planted in the garden is No. 3. This size produces flowers
as good, as large and with as long stems as larger bulbs and are much more
economical. Larger sizes produce more flowers per bulb but at a greater cost
in proportion. Large sizes are better for forcing indoors. We offer No. 4
bulbs in Ranunculus only. They do very well if planted in flats to start and
then transplanted. Under ideal conditions results with them may equal those
with No. 3. But they are more exacting and must be grown just right.
For Potting. Ranunculus and Anemones do well and bloom beautifully in
pots in a sunny window or a greenhouse. They require a very cool room and
most living rooms are too hot, just as they are usually too hot for Freesias,
Lachenelias, Veltheimias and almost everything else except an Amaryllis. For
potting, No. 1 bulbs are preferred although No. 2 size do about as well. Even
No. 3 bulbs will grow and flower satisfactorily in a pot but flower at a little
later date.
Prices of Ranunculus and De Caen Anemones. Assorted Colors.
No. 4—10c per doz. 50c per 100. $2.25 per 500. $4.00 per 1000.
No. 3—15c per doz. $1.00 per 100. $4.00 per 500. $7.50 per 1000.
(This is the size to order for planting outside).
No. 2—30c per doz. $2.00 per 100. $8.00 per 500. $15.40 per 1000.
No. 1—50c per doz. $3.25 per 100. $13.00 per 500. $25.25 per 1000.
Jumbo—75c per doz. $5.00 per 100. $20.00 per 500. $39.00 per 1000.
Straight Colors. We can furnish Ranunculus in Red, Yellow, Orange,
White and Pink. Anemones in His Excellency, single red, Blue Poppy, single
blue, white, and St. Brigid, double, mixed colors. All are No. 3 size only, the
really important size. Prices: 25c doz. 50 for $1.00. $1.75 per 10C@ 500 for
$6.50. 1000 for $12.00.
Note. In order to produce straight colors, the grower must rogue his
crop very closely. I have seen fields in which three-fourths of the bulbs had
been pulled up because they were off color. For this reason they cost more and
the growers grade them slightly smaller than mixtures.
THE PINEAPPLE FAMILY. Bromeliaceae
The Bromeliads are not bulbs, but that is all I can say against them. They
have a rich tropical beauty in foliage and flower. Tender, but easily grown in
pots in the north. They need shade with occasional flecks of sun but not deep,
cool shade as they like warmth and light. With a little ‘‘too’’ much sun the
leaves color gorgeously, but be careful of too ‘‘too’’ much as they burn badly
then.
Give an abundance of water when growing, with their cups filled and but ~
little in winter when at rest.
Their preferred soil is almost pure leaf mould. They will grow easily in
sandy garden soil. We use half peat and half rich sandy loam.
Billbergia amoena. A dwarf, but one of the showiest. Flowers thru
spring, summer to early fall on well established plants. Bronze and green
foliage, green flowers tipped dark blue and large floral bracts of brilliant
orange. $1.50.
B. calophylla. Attractive large green leaves, with transverse bars of grey
on outside. Blood red flower bracts and dark blue flowers. Freeblooming thru
warm weather. $1.50 and $2.00.
B. Distachia hybrid. Foliage reddish green with cream spots. Long spikes
with rose pink bracts and blue margines green flowers. Blooms in early spring
and a few in late summer. 75c and $1.00.
B. Euphemia. Grey green foliage, lightly barred on back. Royal purple
flowers with pale pink bracts. It increases by underground stolons that may
appear several inches from mother plant. If grown in a wire hanging basket in
sphagnum moss (kept moist) these young plants will show at all angles around
the basket, making a lovely and unusual plant. $1.00 and $1.50.
B. macrocalyx. Bright green leaves lightly barred with grey on back.
Erect flower spike with French-blue flowers and pink bracts. $2.00.
B. nutans. The most common in southern gardens. Slender green foliage,
dink bracts and green flowers edged purple. The inflorescence is long and
“trooping, and most beautiful. Naturalized on the trunk of a palm tree, they
‘re a most charming sight when in bloom in early spring. 50c.
B. rubro-cyanea. The foliage has very rich variable markings of green,
red and white. Flowers green, edged dark blue with crimson bracts. Always
interesting and lovely. $1.00 to $1.50.
B. speciosa. Light green leaves with greyish bloom on back. Gorgeous
inflorescence of green flowers with pink bracts. $1.75.
B. thrysiflora. Abundant and gracefully recurved bright green leaves.
Startling inflorescence of scarlet bracts and purplish flowers. $2.00.
B. zebrina. The Pineapple Lily of Hawaii. Beautifully barred and spotted
leaves. When about 2 ft. tall it sends out an enormous pendant flower spike
of cerise pink bracts and chartreuse green flowers. $1.50 to $2.50.
Miscellaneous
New Violet, Royal Robe. The newest, and the last word in violets. Large
lustrous flowers of deepest violet-blue on long stems. Intensely fragrant wide
open flowers. One cannot overstate the transcendant beauty or the value of
this variety for cutting. You can grow these outside like any other violets or in
pots in the house. They will be best suited in a temperature of about 50° F.
They do not like heat, and do not bloom if much warmer. They grow well in
any good garden soil, like plenty of moisture but should not be overwatered.
Price 60c ea. or 3 for $1.50.
Tecolote Bill’s Fancy Corn. This corn grows and looks like any corn but
when you husk it you find it most gaudily colored. There are white ears,
black, blue or red ones (sometimes) but most of them will consist of several
colors including the above as well as pink and many grains are striped or multi-
colored. We cannot promise exact colors as like Tecolote Bill you never know
what he is going to do. But they will be interesting and attractive decora-
tions for around Thanksgiving to Christmas unless Thanksgiving should come
in September. Price per ear, well packed, 50c, postpaid. Per dozen in a variety
of colors f.o.b. La Verne, $3.00. Seed 25c for a liberal packet.
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