UC-NRLF
m
nil wn<
11
lilf
TIfK
FLOWER-GARDEN ;
BKECK'S BOOK OF FLO WEES;
IN WHICH ARE DESCRIBED
ALL THE VARIOUS HARDY HERBACEOUS PERENNIALS, AN-
NUALS, SHRUBBY PLANTS, AND EVERGREEN TREES,
DESIRABLE FOR ORNAMENTAL PURPOSES,
WITH DIRECTIONS FOR THEIR CULTIVATION.
BY JOSEPH BKECK,
LN AND FLORIST, AND FORMER EDITOR OF THE NEW ENGLAND FARMER AND THB
HORTICULTURAL REGISTER.
BOSTON:
PUBLISHED BY JOHN P. JEWETT & COMPANY,
Nos. 17 & 19 Cornhill.
1851.
Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1851, by
JOHN P. JEWETT & CO.,
In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the District of Massachusetts.
Stereotyped by
HOBART k BOBBINS,
NEW ENGLAND TYPE AND STEREOTYPE FOUNDERY,
BOSTON.
INTRODUCTION.
THE object of this volume is the diffusion of general knowl-
edge and practical information in relation to the floral kingdom,
particularly for hardy trees, shrubs and plants, desirable for
the embellishment of the flower-garden and pleasure-ground.
It is not designed as a scientific treatise for those far advanced
in the knowledge of plants, but for new beginners, who are just
entering the .temple of Flora ; or as a book of reference to
those who have but little time for research, and who desire
some simple instructions as to the mode of culture, or descrip-
tion of the habits, of plants or seeds which they may wish to
grow. That it may be more acceptable to the great majority,
technical descriptions have been avoided as much as possible.
We consider it important that plants should be generally known
by their scientific name, as this is universal, while the common
name is only local ; we have, therefore, given precedence to
the botanical name, and followed with the common name,
where any has been known. Some work of this kind, it has
often appeared to me, was much needed. It has often been
called for, in my business as seedsman. Customers will pur-
chase a quantity of seeds, not knowing, perhaps, anything about
G67760
IV INTRODUCTION.
their habits, cultivation, or treatment, or that there should be
any difference in their management. Having had long expe-
rience in the cultivation, as well as the sale, of seeds and
plants, it is expected that every inquiry should be promptly and
correctly answered, in good humor, and as part of the trade;
this it is always pleasant to do when there is not a press of
business ; but sometimes this is rather trying. This book,
therefore, may be said to have been partly written in self-
defence, or, more properly speaking, to give all needed instruc-
tions deliberately and correctly, instead of doing it in a hurry.
The low price of the book will bring it within the reach of
almost every person.
It was thought desirable to bring to notice many of our beau-
tiful indigenous plants and shrubs, as worthy of cultivation. A
handsome flower-garden may be made of these /done ; many
of them are within the reach of every one, and may be obtained
without money and without price. The care and trouble is
all the outlay, arid this may be offset by the pleasure derived
.in collecting them from the fields, woods, or meadows.
The time of flowering and directions for sowing seeds, hardi-
ness, &c., correspond to the meridian of Boston; but those in
different latitudes will find no difficulty in making the proper
allowance for the difference in location.
The plan of this work was devised twenty years ago, and
more than three hundred pages of closely written letter-paper
prepared for it ; but it was found, in the diffuse manner in which
it was commenced, that it would require a thousand pages to
complete it, and, as other business interfered, it was abandoned.
INTRODUCTION. V
In looking over this old manuscript, we found that so many
new plants had been introduced, and such improvements had
been made in numerous species, that it would be of but little use
in this work. It was, however, to some small extent, incorpo-
rated into it. Many articles on various subjects have appeared,
from time to time, in the Horticultural Register, New England
Farmer and the Horticulturist, either with my own signature or
initials, or under some fictitious one. These communications
have been revised, discarding what did not agree with present
experience, or opinion, and making such alterations and addi-
tions as the progress in floriculture demanded ; and these have
afforded material for this book. With few exceptions, I have
been as familiar with the plants described as with household
friends, and believe the directions given will not lead any one
astray. I do not claim all as original, having culled from a
great variety of books and periodicals, English and American.
To Loudon's Encyclopedia of Plants, and other works, I am
indebted for the history of many plants, and the origin of their
generic or specific names. Mr. Emerson's excellent work on
the " Trees of Massachusetts" has assisted me in the descrip-
tion of many shrubs and trees, to whom credit has been given
in the body of the work. Dr. T. W. Harris's treatise on the
" Insects of Massachusetts Injurious to Vegetation," has fur-
nished me with the history and habits of the Rose-Bug and
other insects. Extracts have been made from Downing's
" Horticulturist," from Parsons " On the Rose," and hints from
" Hovey's Magazine," and from various other books and
periodicals.
VI INTRODUCTION.
For the poetry interspersed throughout this volume, I have
drawn largely on "Flora Domestica," a pleasant English
work.
In the directions for making walks, laying box edgings,
&c., I am indebted to an experienced gardener, and to Mr.
McMahon's old work on gardening, in connection with my
own experience and observation.
J. B.
Boston, Feb. 14, 1851.
GENEKAL INDEX.
Pago.
Annuals, cultivation of, 33
sowing seed of, 36
descriptive list of, I 161
Biennials, culture of, 33
descriptive list of, 44
Bulbous roots, general cultivation of, 34
descriptive list of, &c., 44
Bulbs, directions for flowering in glasses, 82
Flowers, the importance of their cultivation, 13
selecting for the flower-garden, 25
old-fashioned do., 28
Flower-garden, laying out, 17
Flowering plants, selection of, 25
Edging, best plants for, and laying, 23
Evergreen trees, descriptive list of, 308
Garden walks, how to construct, 20
Herbaceous plants, how to propagate, 35
descriptive list of, 85
Insects injurious to the rose, &c., 327
Lawns, mode of constructing, 31
Native plants recommended, 26
Perennials, cultivation of, 33
propagation of, 36
descriptive list of, 85
Rock-work, remarks on, 30
Rose, 267 ; soil for, 274 ; planting, 276 ; pruning, 277 ; propagation of,
278 ; tree, 280
Rose, China, Tea, and Noisette, 284 ; musk, Macartney, microphylla,
285 ; summer, 286 ; everblooming, Bourbon, 283 ; remontant,
282 ; moss, 286 ; climbing, 288 ; Boursalt, 289 ; prairie, 289 ;
Ayrshire, 290 ; multiflora, 292 ; Gerarde's account of, 292 ; to
obtain odors from, 293
Rose Slug, 327 ; remedy for, 331
Bug, 333
Chafer, 333
Saw-fly, 328
Shrubs, on the cultivation of deciduous and evergreen, 40
proper season for planting, 41
• soil and situation for, 42
descriptive list of, 216
Thrips, or vine-fretters, 332
Whale-oil soap, 332
BULBOUS-ROOTED PLANTS.
Amaryllis, 46 Bulbs, directions for flowering in
Anemone, 44 glasses, 82
description of a fine double Corn Flag, 54
one, 45 Crown Imperial, 52
soil, situation, and plant- Crocus, 47
ing, 45 Dahlia, 47
Bulbous-rooted plants, descriptive propagation of, 48
list of, 44 preparation of soil for, . . .48
Bulbous perennials, 34 preserving roots, 50
Vlll
GENERAL INDEX.
Daffodil, 67
English Iris, 60
Feathered Hyacinth, 59
Feraria, 51
Flower-de-luce, 59
Fritillaria, . 52
Galanthus, 53
Garden Hyacinth, 55
Gladiolus, 54
Grape Hyacinth, , 59
Guinea hen flower, ....... 53
Iris, 59
Susiana, 60
Xiphioides, 60
Jonquille 67
Leucojum, 54
Lilium, 61
Lily, 61
Muscari, 59
Narcissus, 67
Paeouy, 68
Persian Fritillaria, 53
Poet's Narcissus, 68
Polyanthus Narcissus, 68
Ranunculus, 72
directions for cultiva-
tion, 73
Hoop- petticoat Narcissus, .... 68
Hyacinth, 55
planting, 57
Snowdrop, 53
Spanish Iris, 60
Tree Pceony, 70
Tiger flower, 51
Tuberose, 74
Tulip, 75
Wind flower, 44
PERENNIAL, BIENNIAL, HERBACEOUS, BORDER, AND OTHER
FLOWERS,
Achillea, 85
Aconitum, 85
Actgea, 86
Adam's Needle, 159
Adonis, 87
Alyssum, 87
Althaea, 87
Anemone, 90
Amsonia, 91
Antirrhinum, 91
Aquilegia, 92
Armeria, 93
Aster, 93
Asclepias, 94
Auricula, 148
Balm, 136
Baptisia, 96
Bellis, 97
Bell flower, 97
Bitter Vetch, 138
Bloodroot, 152
Blue Catananche, 100
Buttercup, 150
Canterbury Bells, 98
Candytuft, 126
Cardinal flower, 129
Cardamine, . . . 100
Carnation Pink, 112
Cassia, 100
Catananche, 100
Cantua, . . . 120 i
Chelone, 102
Chrysanthemum, 101
China Pink, 114
Clematis, 103
Columbine. 92
Convallaria, 105
Coronilla, 10G
Coreopsis, 106
Corydalis, 108
Cynoglossum, 109
Cyprepedium, 109
Cowslip, 149
Dame's Violet, 123
Day Lily, 124
Daisy, _ 97
Delphinium, 109
Dianthus, Ill
Dictamnus, 115
Digitalis, 116
Dodecatheon, 117
Dog's-tooth Violet, 118
Dracocephalum, 117
Dragon 's-head, 117
Epilohium, 118
Erythronium, 118
Euphorbia, 119
Eupatorium, 119
Evening Primrose, 137
Everlasting Pea, 128
Feverfew, 150
Fleur-de-luce, 126
Foxglove, 116
Fraxinella, 115
Funkia, 125
Fumitory, 103
Garden Rocket, 123
Gentiana, 120
Gerardia, 120
Geranium, 122
Globe Flower, 155
Golden Rod, 153
Glycine, 121
Ground-nut, 121
Hepatica, 123
Hesperis, 123
GENERAL INDEX.
IX
Helianthus, 124
Hemerocalis, 124
Hibiscus, . .
Honesty, . .
Horned Poppy,
Hollyhock, .
Hypericum, .
Iberis, . . .
Ipomopsis,
Iris,
125
132
122
87
126
126
120
126
Jacob's Ladder, 147
109
138
129
109
105
135
135
129
Lady's Slipper,
Lathyrus, ....
Lamium, ....
Larkspur, ....
Lily of the Valley,
London Pride, . .
Loose Strife, . . .
Lobelia,
Lunaria, 132
Lungwort, 149
Lupin, 132
Lysanmchia, 135
Lythrum, 136
Malva, 136
Maryland Cassia, 100
Mallows, 136
Milfoil, 85
Monarda, 136
Monkshood, 85
Morning Glory, 106
Mullen Pink, 86
Navelwort, 109
(Enothera, 137
Orchis, 137
Orobus, 138
Pansy 157
Pa paver, 138
Pasque Flower, . 90
Pentstemon, 139
Phlox, 140
early varieties, 141
Phlox, summer do 142
late do 144
raised from seed, 146
Periwinkle, 156
Pink, Ill
Polemonium, 147
Polyanthus, 148
Poppy, 138
Pntentilla, 147
Primrose, 148
Primula, 148
Pulmonaria, 149
Pyrethrum, 150
Sabbatia, 151
Sanguinaria 152
Sarracenia, 151
Saxifraga, 152
>'ea Lavender, 154
Side-saddle Flower, 151
Snap Dragon, 91
Solidago, 153
Solomon's Seal, 105
Speedwell, 156
Spiraea, 153
Spiderwort, 154
Spurge, 119
St. John's-wort, 126
Sunflower, 124
Swallow-wort, 94
Sweet William, 114
Thrift, 93
Thorough-wort, 119
Tradescantia, 154
Trollius, 155
Valerian, 155
Veronica, 156
Vinca, 156
Virgin's Bower, 103
Viola, 157
Willow Herb, 136
Wolfsbane, 85
ANNUALS.
Adonis, . .^ 161
African Hibiscus, 184
Alyssum, 161
Alonsoa, 162
Amaranthus, 162
Amaranth, 182
Amethyst, 166
Ammobium, 164
Animated Oat, 165
Anagalis, 164
Apple of Peru, 177
Argemone, 162
Aster, 164
Avena, 165
Balsam Apple, 199
Pear, 200
Balsam, 185
Balloon Vine, 168
Bartonia, 165
Basil, 202
Brachycome, 166
Browallia, 166
Briza, ". . 166
Cacalia, 166
Calendula, 167
Calandrinia, 167
Calampelis, 167
California Poppy, 171
Calliopsis, 168
Callistemne, 164
Caterpillar, 196
Catchfly, 210
Cardiospermum, 168
Campanula, 169
Candytuft, 185
I Canna, 169
GENERAL INDEX.
Canary-bird Flower, 213
Celosia, 170
Centaurea, 171
China Pink, Ill
China Aster, 164
Chriseis, 171
Chrysanthemum, 172
Clarkia, 173
Clintonia, 174
Cleome, 174
Cobae, 175
Cockscomb, 171
Coix, 172
Coreopsis, 168, 175, 176
Colinsia, 175
Cornmelina, 176
Convolvulus, 177
Crepis, 177
Cypress Vine, 186
Ecremocarpus, 167
Erysimum, 181
Eschscholtzia, 171
Eutoca, 179
Euphorbia, 179
Everlasting Flower, 184
Evening Primrose, 202
Forget-me-not, 200
Gaillardia, 181
German Aster, 164
Gillyflower, 194
Gilia, 181
Globe Amaranth, 182
Gomphrena, 182
Godetia 183
Hedgehog, 196
Helianthus, 183
Helichrysum, 184
Hibiscus, 184
Hyacinth Bean, 179
Iberis, 185
Ice Plant, 196
Impatiens, 185
Indian Pink, Ill
Indian Cress, 212
— Shot, 169
Ipomea, 186
Job's Tears, 172
Larkspur, 178
Lathyrus, 188
Leptosiphon, 189
Lasthenia, 189
Lavatera, 189
Limanthus, 190
Loasa, 190
Lophospernum, 191
Love in a Mist, 201
Love in a Puff, 168
Love-lies-bleeding, 163
Lupinus, 191
Madia, 192
Malope, 192
Marigold, 211
Martynea, 193
Marvel of Peru, 199
Mathiola, 194
Maurandia, 193
Medicago, 195
Mesembryanthemum, 196
Mimosa, 196
Mignonette, 207
Mimulus, 197
Mirabilis, 199
Monkey Flower, 197
Momordica, 199
Morning Glory, 177
Mourning Bride, 208
Myosotis, 200
Nasturtium, 212
Nemophila, 200
Nigella, 201
Nolana, 201
Nun's Whipping-rope, 163
Ocynum, 202
OEnothera, 202
Palestine Mustard, 181
Pansy, 157
Papaver, 203
Phaseolus, 205
Platystemon, 205
Poppy, 203
Phlox, 205
Portulacca, 206
Pot Marygold, 167
Primrose, 183
Purple-eyed Crepis, 177
Quaking Grass, 166
Resede, 207
Rodanthe, 207
Salpiglossis, 207
Scabious, 208
Scarlet-flowering Bean, 205
Scarlet Morning Glory, 187
Schizanthus 209
Schizopetalon, 209
Sensitive Plant, 196
Snails, 196
Sphoenogyne, 210
Senecio, 210
Silene, 210
Swan's Daisy, 166
Sunflower, 183
Sweet Pea, 188
Tagates, 201
Thorn Apple, 177
Thunbergia 212
Tricolor, 162
Tropceolura, 212
Unicorn Plant, 193
Variegated Euphorbia, 180
Verbena, 213
Venus Looking-glass, 169
Viola, 157, 214
Zeranthemum, 215
Zinma, 215
GENERAL INDEX.
XI
HARDY SHRUBS AND LOW TREES.
^Esculus,
Acuba,
Althae frutex,
Almond, double-flowering, . . -
Amorpha,
Amelanchier,
American Rose Bay,
Amygdalus,
Ampelopsis,
Andromeda,
Aristolochia,
Ash
Ash, weeping,
Azalea,
Bladder Senna,
Barberry,
Beech, purple-flowering, . . . .
Berberis
Bignonia, 223,
Birthwort,
Box,
Bramble,
Broom,
Buffalo Tree,
Buxus,
Buckthorn,
Catalpa,
Calycanthus
Caprifolium,
Carolina Allspice,
Ceanothus,
Celastrus,
Clematis,
Climbing Staff,
Cerasus,
Cercis,
Cherry, double-flowering, . . . .
Chionanthus,
Clethra,
Colutea,
Corchorrus,
Cornus
Cranberry Tree,
Crataegus,
Crab Apple,
Currant,
— double-flowering, . . . .
Cydonia,
Cytisus,
Daphne,
Deutzia,
Diervilla,
Dirca,
Dogwood,
Eloeagnus,
Elder! . .
English Ivy,
Epigoea,
Euonymus,
Fagus,
Feverbush,
Flowering Raspberry,
216
216
241
219
217
217
254
218
219
220
220
239
239
220
230
222
238
222
301
220
224
294
296
295
224
2.37
224
224
225
225
226
227
103
227
228
229
228
229
230
230
244
230
305
232
256
264
264
233
234
235
235
236
236
231
236
295
240
237
237
238
244
295
Fraxinus, 239
Fringe Tree, 229
Gold-dust Tree, 216
Ground Laurel, 237
Halesia, 239
Hedera, 240
Hibiscus. 241
Holly, '. 241
Honeysuckle, 225, 247
Horse Chestnut, 246
Ilex, 241
Indigo Shrub, • . . .217
Ivy, English, 240
Ivy, poisonous, 254
Japan Quince, 233
Judas Tree, 220
Kalmia, 242
Kerria, 244
Laburnum, 234
Laurus, 244
Laurel, 242
Lavender, 244
Leatherwood, 236
Ligustrum, 246
Lilac, 300
Lonicera, 247
Locust, 265
Lycium, 247
Magnolia, 248
iVIazerion, 235
Mahonia, 251
Oleaster, 236
Paulownia, 251
Pseony, 253
Pear, 255
Peach, double-flowering, .... 218
Philadelphus, 253
Plum, 254
Poison Sumach, 263
Ivy, 263
Prunus, 254
Privet, 246
Pyrus, 255
Purple Beech, 238
Red Bud, 229
Rhamnus, 257
Rhododendron, 258
Rhodora, 261
Rihes, 264
Robinia, 265
Rose Acacia, 266
Rose, 267
Bay, 258
poetical extracts on, . . .268
soil for, 274
situation for, 275
propagation of, 278
classification, 280
Rubus, 294
Sambucus, Shepardia, 295
Shad Bush, 217
Snowberry, 300
Xll
GENERAL INDEX.
Snowball, 303
Snowdrop, 239
Spartium, 296
Spiraea, 296
Sumach, 261
Poison, 263
Strawberry Tree, 237
Symphora, 300
Syringa, 253, 300
Tartarean Honeysuckle, .... 247
Tecoma, 301
Tree Paeony, 253
Trumpet Flower, 223, 301
Venetian Sumach, 262
Viburnum, 303
Virginian Creeper, 219
Wayfaring Tree, 304
Weigela, 305
Weeping Ash, 239
Wistaria 306
EVERGREEN TREES AND SHRUBS.
Abies canadensis, 313
nigra, 315
alba, 316
communis 316
pulcherrima, . . . . . . .317
Douglassii, 317
Arbor vitae, .; 322
Auricaria imbricata, 326
Austrian Pine, 312
Box, 224
Cedar, 322, 324
Cedar of Lebanon, 320
Chilian Pine, 322
Cupressus, 323
sempervirens, .... 324
thyoides, 324
Cypress, 323
Deodara Cedar, 325
Epigsea, 237
Euonymous, 238
Fir Balsam, 318
Hacmatack, 319
Hedera, 240
Holly, 241
Ilex, 241
Ivy, English, 240
Juniper, 324
Juniperus Virginiana, 324
• communis, 325
Kalmia, 242
Magnolia, 248
Mahonia, 251
Larch, Scotch, 319
American, 319
Cedar of Lebanon, .... 320
Larix, 319
Norway Pine, 311
Norway Spruce, 316
Picea balsamifera, 318
Fraseri, 319
Pine family, 311
Pinus, 313
sabiniana, 312
pinaster, 312
ponderso, 312
Lambertiana, 312
Austrica, 312
strobus, 311
resinosus, 311
sylvestris, 311
Pitch-pine, 311
Rhododendron, 258
Scotch Pine, 311
Spruce, 313
Black, 315
White, 316
Norway, 316
Swiss Pine, 313
Thuya occidentalis, 322
White Pine, 311
CLIMBING PLANTS.
Ampelopsis, 219
Aristolochia, 210
Balloon Vine, 168
Bignonia, 223
Caprifolium, 225
Canary-bird Flower, 213
Cardiospermum, 168
Celastrus, 227
Clematis, ,v .... 103
Cobae, 175
Corydalis, 108
Convolvulus, 106, 177
Cypress Vine, 186
Dolichos, 180
Glycine, 121
Honeysuckle, 225
Hedera, 240 I
Ipomea, 186, 187 I
Ivy, English, 240
Poison, 204
Lathyrus, 128
Loasa, 190
Lophospermum, 191
Lycium, 247
Maurandia, 193
Momordica, 199
Nasturtium, 212
Phaseolus, 205
Pipe Vine, 210
Thunbergia, 212
Tropaeolum 212
Trumpet Flower, 223
Vinca, 156
Virginian Creeper, 219
Waxwork, 227
Wistaria, 306
BOOK OF FLOWERS.
ON THE IMPORTANCE OF THE CULTIVATION
OF FLOWERS.
" How exquisitely sweet
This rich display of flowers, —
This airy wild of fragrance,
So lovely to the eye,
And to the sense so sweet ! "
" And round about he taught sweet flowers to grow."
" FLOWERS ! The cultivation of flowers," say some ; " of
what use ? It neither gives us meat, drink, nor clothing."
Well, supposing it does not ? Shall we not turn our thoughts
to something else besides corn and potatoes, and the produc-
tions of the earth which only keep soul and body together ?
Is there no mind to feed and delight ? Shall we always be
plodding ? Will it always be the inquiry, " What shall we
eat, and what shall we drink, and wherewithal shall we be
clothed ? " Must care and business always engross the whole
mind ? The earth, the seas, and skies, are full of the wonders
of God's beautiful creation. Shall we close our eyes, stop our
ears, and be dumb, when there is such an endless profusion
around us, to delight, to cheer, and soothe us ? We need not
compass sea and land for our gratification ; the means are
within the reach of every one for innocent and healthy relax-
ation. It lies around us ; it is at our feet ; " it may be found
in the garden, where, in the beginning, everything pleasant to
the sight" was congregated.
2
14 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
Flower-gardens were ever held in high estimation by persons
of taste. Emperors and kings have been delighted with the
expansion of flowers ; and a more exalted personage than the
highest on earth, called the attention of his followers to the
beauty of flowers, when he said, " Consider the lilies of the
field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin, and
yet I say unto you, that even Solomon in all his glory was not
arrayed like one of these." Nature, in her gay attire, unfolds
a vast variety which is pleasing to the human mind, and, con-
sequently, has a tendency to tranquillize the agitated passions,
and exhilarate the man, — nerve the imagination, and render
all around him delightful. Who, that has been confined to the
business of the day, toiling and laboring in the " sweat of his
brow," does not feel invigorated and refreshed, as he takes
his walk in the cool of the evening, with the happy family
group about him, and marks the progress of his fruits and
flowers ? Or who, that breathes the delicious fragrance of the
morning flowers, glittering with dew, but can look up with
greater confidence to Him who has strewed, with such liberal
profusion, in every direction, the evidences of his goodness to
the children of men ?
" The cultivation of flowers is an employment adapted to
every grade, the high and the low, the rich and the poor; and
especially to those who have retired from the busy scenes of
active life. Man was never made to rust out in idleness. A
degree of exercise is as necessary for the preservation of health,
both of body and mind, as food. And what exercise is more
fit for him, who is in the decline of life, than that of superin-
tending a well-ordered garden ? What more enlivens the
sinking mind ? What more invigorates the feeble frame ?
What is more conducive to a long life ?
" The pleasure derived from a fine collection of flowers
requires no comment, only that the more varied and perpetual
the flowering, the greater is the gratification to the observer.
The moral lesson that can be obtained from flowers also forms
another fine characteristic in the flower-garden ; for flowers not
CULTIVATION OF FLOWERS. 15
only please the eye and gratify the passing observer, but con-
tain a beauty in their structure, in the most minute parts and
coloring, that conveys a pleasing and natural lesson to the most
accurate and intelligent observer, with everything to please and
nothing to offend.
Who, that was blessed with parents that indulged themselves
and children with a flower-garden, can forget the happy, inno-
cent hours spent in its cultivation ? O ! who can forget those
days, when, to announce a bud, or the coloring of a tulip, or
the opening of a rose, or the perfection of a full-blown peony,
was glory enough for one morning ?
" Who can forget the vine planted by his mother's own hand
when he was a little child ? Its tendrils now cling to the top-
most branches of a tall tree in the front yard ; and he never
revisits the scene of his childhood, without gratifying some of
the holiest emotions of his nature, by sitting under its shelter,
and recalling the earliest and happiest associations of his life.
And there, too, clinging about the columns of the porch, is the
coral honeysuckle, shading the evening window with its rich
and delicate clusters of flowers ; and at every footstep along
the border, are the many-hued flowers planted by a sister.
" It has been said by travellers that they could distinguish a
pure-minded and more intelligent family, from the appearance
of the house and grounds in this particular. The difference
was striking, — the house of the more intelligent \vas sur-
rounded with flowers — the windows displayed them — vines
were twined with care and taste over the dwelling. Another
presents a different spectacle. The weeds and briers are
allowed to hold their dominion. In short, Solomon's picture
of the garden of the sluggard is exactly verified.
" The cultivation and study of flowers appears more suited
to females than to man. They resemble them in their fra-
gility, beauty, and perishable nature. The Mimosa may be
likened to a pure-minded and delicate woman, who shrinks
even from the breath of contamination ; and who, if assailed
too rudely by the finger of scorn and reproach, will wither and
die from the shock."
16 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
" A taste for trees, and plants, and flowers, is the love an
enlightened mind and a tender heart pay to nature. It is a
peculiar attribute of woman, exhibiting the gentleness and
purity of her sex ; and every husband should encourage it ; for
his wife and daughters will prove wiser, and happier, and bet-
ter, by its cultivation. Who does not venerate and love some
tree, or rose, or honeysuckle, planted, it may be, by the hand
of some absent or departed mother, or sister, or brother ? and
who would not protect them with a holy reverence, as memen-
toes of a hallowed love as well as contributors to the gratifica-
tion of an elegant taste ? What can be more grateful to the
merchant, or man of any professional business, than to recreate
for a short time in a well-selected collection of flowers, neatly
arranged and cultivated ? Every one either engages his atten-
tion by its fragrance, color, or its peculiar character ; and many,
as the rose, white lily, &c., embrace everything to attract our
most ardent desires."
In reply to the* question often asked, What is the use of
flowers ? Cobbett asks another : What is the use of anything ?
There are a variety of things pleasing to the eye of man, —
some of them expensive and not within the reach of all ; but
flowers may, without much expense, be possessed by the hum-
blest individual. Their cultivation may be made one source
of happiness to the family. Let heads of families gather
around them every source of innocent amusement and recre-
ation for their children. They should endeavor to make their
home attractive and lovely, in doors and out, — a paradise, if
possible.
LAYING OUT THE FLOWER-GARDEN.
"And the sinuous paths of lawn and moss,
Which led through the garden along and across ;
Some opened at once to the sun and the breeze, —
Some lost among bowers of blossoming trees, —
Were all paved with daisies and delicate bells,
As fair as the fabulous asphodels ;
And flowerets which, drooping as day drooped too,
Fell into pavilions, white, purple, and blue,
To roof the glow-worm from the evening dew."
Situation. — As to the situation of a garden, it is not always
in our power to choose. A level plat, however, is to be pre-
ferred ; for, if there be considerable descent, the heavy rains
will wash away the soil. A southern aspect, sheltered from
the north and west winds, is a proper situation for most plants.
An inclination to the north, or west, or any point between them,
should, if possible, be avoided. It should be situated contig-
uous or near the dwelling-house, and well exposed to the sun
and air, that the culture of the more curious and valuable
flowers may be treated with the best success.
Soil. — The soil should be a deep, rich loam. If not natu-
rally so, it .must be made rich and deep by trenching and
manuring, by carting away poor soil and bringing on good. If
naturally heavy, it should be made light with a more sandy
soil ; or, if too light, it should be improved by a mixture of that
which is more heavy.
The ground should be trenched two spades deep, or from
twelve to sixteen inches, according to the quality of the sub-
soil. If the subsoil is poor, the depth of the mould must be
made by carting on such substances as are most needed to
correct the bad qualities of the soil. A compost, made of
decomposed green sward from a pasture, and old, rotten ma-
nure, would, in most cases, be the best application to increase
the depth of the soil.
18 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
If the ground allotted for the flower-garden is inclined to be
wet, or springy, it should be thoroughly drained by ditches or
drains so deep underground as not to interfere with cultivation.
A location, having a gravelly subsoil and exposed to drought,
should be avoided, if possible. In a word, what is wanted is a
deep, rich soil, natural or artificial, not too wet, nor too dry.
Laying out the Garden. — In giving directions for laying
out a flower-garden, it must be borne in mind that it is not the
design of the writer to give elaborate plans for extensive pleas-
ure grounds ; as those who are able or disposed to indulge
themselves in this great luxury, will, probably, consult the sci-
entific landscape gardener, or derive their information from
other sources within their reach, rather than from a work writ-
ten particularly for the multitude, whose means may be more
or less limited.
"Neatness should be the prevailing characteristic of a flower-
garden, which should be so situated as to form an ornamental
appendage to the house ; and, when circumstances will admit,
placed before windows exposed to a southern or south-eastern
aspect. The prkiciple on which it is laid out ought to be that
of exhibiting a variety of colors arid forms so blended as to pro-
duce one beautiful whole. In a small flower-garden, viewed
from the windows of the house, this effect is best produced by
beds, or borders, formed on the side of each other, and parallel
to the windows from whence they are seen ; as, by that position,
the colors show themselves to the best advantage. In a retired
part of the garden a rustic seat may be formed, over and around
which honeysuckles, and other sweet and ornamental creepers
and climbers, may be trained on trellises, so as to afford a pleas-
ant retirement."
In laying out a flower-garden, it is best to have the work all
completed by the middle of October, that it may be in read-
iness to receive bulbous, and many of the herbaceous and other
plants, and such shrubs as are hardy enough to set in autumn.
The work may, therefore, be commenced at any leisure time
during the months of August and September ; or, if it is more
LAYING OUT THE FLOWER-GARDEN. 19
convenient not to commence the work until spring, it should be
accomplished as early as possible. If thus deferred, the pro-
prietor must necessarily be deprived the pleasure of having
anything in its greatest perfection, except annuals and tender
bulbous or tuberous plants for that season. I should, therefore,
advise, by all means, to have the work done in autumn.
The quantity of land to be devoted to the object may be
small ; but, however limited the space, it is necessary some
order should be observed in the general arrangement.
As to the style of laying out, it will be difficult to propose
any plan that would be likely to give satisfaction to all, for
most of our readers have a fancy of their own ; and, though they
might be disposed to ask advice, yet would, probably, after all,
follow the guidance of their own taste, whether it be good or
bad. It may not be amiss, however, to throw out a few hints.
And, in the first place, if any considerable extent is to be im-
proved, — or if small, and it is desirable to have the business
done neatly, and in a substantial, workmanlike manner, — we
should recommend that a thorough-bred, intelligent gardener
be employed to execute the work ; for the beauty of a garden
depends very much upon the manner of laying out, the proper
consistency and richness of the soil, the make of the walks,
and laying the edgings, whether of box, grass, or anything
else.
The form of the ground may be either square or oblong,
somewhat circular or irregular. The interior part may be
divided into oblong four-feet beds, or in the manner of a par-
terre, in some fanciful style ; the former being more conven-
ient, particularly for most of what are called florist's flowers,
but the latter more pleasing to the eye. In either method, a
walk should be carried round the outward boundary, leaving a
border to surround the whole ground. This outward border
will be the most appropriate place for choice flowering shrubs,
and tall herbaceous biennial and perennial plants. If the bor-
der be a wide one, groups of ornamental trees, of low growth,
may be planted in the background, especially on the northern
20 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
and western quarters, which will greatly protect the plants
from cold winds, particularly if they be evergreens. Large
trees should not be planted so near as to injure the garden by
their roots or shade. Every fine garden should be well
secured by fence or hedge, if at all exposed to the public road.
A hedge is far the prettiest, if well managed, neat, and orna-
mental.
" The plan of the garden, be it either large or small, gener-
ally pleases when it is so constructed as to give a variety in
the design. Formality, though often the leading feature, sel-
dom gives that ease that is requisite. The planting of the
ground should also bear the nicest consideration ; by which,
I mean that such shrubs and plants should be selected as will
form a pleasing contrast, and appropriate in the different places
assigned to them."
GARDEN WALKS.
Width of Walks. — The main walk, or walks, of a garden,
should be laid out on a liberal scale. Nothing detracts so much
from the pleasures of the flower-garden as contracted walks.
When we wish to enjoy the company of a friend, in the flower-
garden, it is much more agreeable to have him by our side, arm
in arm, than to be under the necessity of making the tour of
the garden in Indian file. The main walks should, therefore,
be calculated so as to admit two persons to walk comfortably in
a social manner; and, if wide enough for a little one in addi-
tion, so much the better. From five to six feet will not be too
wide for the main avenue. The internal compartments, of
course, should have much narrower walks, the width of which
must be graduated in a degree by the size of the garden.
The walks of the flower-garden should be constructed of
such material as will make firm and dry walking at all seasons
of the year. The best walks are composed of small stones,
oyster-shells, coarse gravel, or broken bricks, covered with five
or six inches of fine gravel. As to the color of the gravel, or
coating, you must be governed by fancy and convenience ; but
LAYING OUT THE FLOWER-GARDEX. 21
as to quality, it should be coarse and lively, containing a due
proportion of light sandy loam, to make it bind close and firm
at all seasons; but not so redundant in loam or clay as to
stick to the feet in wet weather, nor so sandy as to be loose
and open in dry weather.
Ground oyster shells are sometimes used, also granite chips,
from a stone-cutter's, which make fine, hard walks ; but these
substances are too brilliant for the eye in a sunny day, and on
that account are objectionable. A reddish free-stone color has
a better effect.
Agreeably to your design, stake out the width of the walk,
and proceed to level the boundary on each side, corresponding
with the adjacent ground, and form the cavity of the walk for
the reception of the gravel, — observing that the whole space,
to make a good and permanent walk, should be dug twelve or
fifteen inches deep, to allow a proper depth for gravel, to pre-
vent the weeds from rising from the ground below, and worms
from casting up the earth thereof. The earth dug out from the
cavity of the walk may be used to raise and level any hollow
parts on each side, or contiguously situated, which, with the
edging, if of box, should always be completed before you begin
to lay the gravel.
The walks being thus laid out, you may first lay any stony
rubbish, — such as broken bricks, small stones, &c., — for sev-
eral inches deep in the bottom, which wrill drain off extra
moisture, and thereby prevent the surface from becoming mossy
or foul ; the proper gravel is then to be laid on, six or eight
inches thick. As you proceed in laying, observe to rake off
the coarse parts into the bottom, and to raise the middle of the
walk higher than the sides, in a gradual rounding form, just
as much, and no more, as is sufficient to carry off the wet to
each side.
The proportion to be observed is, — a walk of four feet wide
should be one and a half inches higher in the middle than at
the sides, and for every foot after, that such increases in
width, add one fourth of an inch for the centre elevation.
00
Rounding the walk too much would make it very uneasy to
walk upon, and of an unpleasant appearance. No more gravel
should be laid in one day than can be finished off and rolled
effectually. Clean, hard gravel walks add much to the beauty
and comfort of the garden.
A garden roller is indispensable where there is any extent
of walks, and it should be applied as often as once a week, and
particularly after a rain.
PLANTING BOX AND OTHER EDGING.
The surface of the garden having been levelled, and the
walks dug out, according to the plan, and partially filled with
stones and coarse gravel, the operator may now proceed to
plant the box edgings, or any other plant he may substitute
for that purpose, or grass if that is preferred.
Box, of all other plants, makes the neatest and most beauti-
ful edgings. This may be set in September or October, but
will require protection, as it is very liable to be thrown out by
the frost, or winter-killed, without it. It may also be planted
in the spring, and also in June ; but when late planted will
require shading and watering.
Box takes root freely from cuttings, and is sometimes used
without fibres ; but, unless great care is taken, some of it will
fail to grow, thereby making the edging uneven and full of
gaps, and it will be found difficult to get into good shape again.
If it is to be raised from cuttings, it should be done in a bed by
itself, where it can have the benefit of shading and watering.
To make neat edgings, you should get some short, bushy
box, and let it be slipped or parted into moderately small slips,
of not more than six or eight inches in length, dividing it in
such a manner that each slip shall have more or less roots or
fibres upon it, rejecting such as are destitute, for planting by
themselves. If any have long, straggling roots, they should be
trimmed off, and the plants should be made pretty much of a
length.
It is to be premised that the margin of the beds have all
LAYING OUT THE FLOWER-GARDEN. 23
been properly levelled or graded ; then they should be trodden
lightly and evenly along, to settle it moderately firm ; if for a
straight edging, stretch the line along the edge of the bed or
border; with the spade make up any inequalities of the surface
according to the line ; then, on the side of the line next the
walk, let a small, neat trench be cut, about six inches deep,
making the side next the line perfectly upright, turning the
earth out toward the walk or alley.
For a curving margin, a strip of board, an inch wide and
twelve or fifteen feet long, with pegs attached by screws or
nails, at various distances along its length, so that it can be
made fast in the ground, to correspond with the design, may
be used instead of the line ; or some workmen are so expert,
that, having the design transferred to the ground, they will
proceed with accuracy without such a guide. At any rate, the
trench is to be dug out as directed for a straight line.
The box is to be planted in the trench, close against the
upright side, against the line or strip of board, placing the
plants so near together as to form immediately a close, com-
pact edging, without being too thick and clumsy, and with the
top of the plants as evenly as possible, all an equal height, not
more than an inch or two above the surface of the ground ;
and, as you proceed in planting, draw the earth up to the out-
side of the plants, which fixes them in their due position ; and
when you have planted the row out, then with ydur spade cast
in the earth almost to the top of the plants, and tread neatly and
closely thereto. When the edging is planted, let any inequal-
ities of the top be cut as even and neat as possible, with a pair
of shears.
Grass makes a very neat edging if kept in order, but it
requires so much attention to keep it in its place, so much
edging and cutting, that I would not recommend it. If, how-
ever, it is made use of, it should be obtained from a pasture or
road-side, where it may be easily cut in strips to suit, of three
or more inches wide, according to fancy. The sward should
be fine and tough, so as not to break in cutting and removing.
24 BRECK'S BOOK OF F LOWERS.
The mode of laying will suggest itself to almost any one : — the
surface of the grass should be on a level with the earth, and
but slightly raised above the walk.
Thrift, if neatly planted, makes handsome edgings to bor-
ders or flower-beds. This may be planted as directed for box,
slipping the old plants into small slips ; setting the plants near
enough to touch one another, forming a tolerably close row.
Thyme, hyssop, winter savory, and pinks are frequently
used for edgings, but they are too prone to grow out of com-
pass, and therefore not to be recommended.
Many other plants are often used for edgings, but there is
nothing that makes so neat and trim an edging as box.
It is a good time to clip old box edgings in June. They
should never be suffered to grow tall, but be kept down low.
It is best to give some protection to box in the winter by
hoarse litter, or by throwing up a few inches of the fine gravel
on one side, and the earth of the border on the other.
SELECTIONS OF FLOWERING PLANTS FOR
THE GARDEN.
" To raise your flowers, various arts combine,
Study these well, and fancy's flight decline ;
If you would have a vivid, vigorous breed,
Of every kind, examine well the seed ;
Learn to what elements your plants belong,
What is their constitution, weak or strong ;
Be their physician, careful of their lives,
And see that every species daily thrives ;
These love much air, these on much earth rely,
These, without constant warmth, decay and die ;
Supply the wants of each, and they will pay
For all your care through each succeeding day."
To select the most desirable plants, and to arrange them
with good taste, requires an extensive knowledge of the floral
kingdom. The time of flowering must be known, the height,
hardiness, habits, odors, &c. ; also the effect of the combination
of different colors, so that the plants may be arranged in such
a manner as to produce the happiest effect. I shall place
before my readers an extensive collection of the most desirable
plants, embracing hardy Annuals, Biennials, Perennials, and
Shrubbery, pointing out their various habits, qualities, beauties
or defects, and modes of cultivation, describing them as plainly
as possible, without using any more technical language than is
necessary for that purpose. The circumstances of different
individuals vary so much, as well as their taste and fancy,
that, having given these particulars, it must be left with each
one to choose for themselves such plants as are adapted to their
circumstances, the extent of their ground, soil, &c. Some
suggestions may not be out of place.
Some persons, anxious for a great variety, crowd too many
plants into a small space ; consequently have nothing in per-
3
26 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
fection. This is too often the case with young beginners, and
it is not uncommon to see the small patch devoted to flowers
as unsightly as if it were filled with weeds. It is much better
to be confined to a few fine varieties, and cultivate them well,
than to pursue the careless style which is frequently seen in
the flower-garden, or what is denominated as such.
Tenants, who occupy their places for an uncertain length of
time, are not generally disposed to make many improvements
by the addition of plants. Those who may be thus situated,
and have a desire for a flower-garden, can, without much
outlay, have a succession of flowers through the season. The
following Annuals may be obtained for one dollar : — Double
Rocket Larkspur, Phlox Drummondii, Mignionette, German
Asters, Coreopsis Drummondii, Pansies, Sweet Peas, Poppies,
Gillyflowers, Chriseis, Purple and White Candytuft, Nemo-
phila, Petunias, Lavateras, Convolvulus, Globe Amaranths,
Immortal Flower, Mourning Bride, and Sweet Sultans. For
two dollars a dozen, Verbenas, of different colors, may be
obtained, that will keep up a lively bloom from June to
November. A dozen fine Dahlias and a few Gladiolas will
cost three or four dollars, which, with a few monthly roses to
be turned out into the garden, and to be re-potted in autumn,
and a few choice perennials, grown in deep pots and plunged
in the ground, will not altogether exceed the sum of ten dol-
lars. These plants, well grown, will make a fine display, and
quite a respectable flower-garden.
NATIVE PLANTS.
Many beautiful plants may be selected from the woods and
fields, by those who wish to ornament their grounds at the
least expense. These would be more highly prized than many
far-fetched plants, that are trumpeted before the public, from
time to time, could they be seen grouped together in the
flower-garden, with the same care of cultivation bestowed upon
them as upon some of the expensive exotics. What plant can
rival the splendor of the Lobelia cardincdis, with its thousands
SELECTIONS OF FLOWERING PLANTS FOR THE GARDEN. 27
of vivid scarlet flowers, when perfected by the gardener's hand ?
How few have seen the beautiful Aquilegia Canadense, im-
proved as it may be in the flower-garden ? Who has tried to
cultivate the Gerardia family — a tribe of plants singular in their
habits, and perhaps difficult to manage in the garden ; but their
great elegance and beauty would, no doubt, amply repay any
pains that might be taken to domesticate it. Our native Asters,
— a large family of interesting plants, enlivening our autumnal
months, some of them very beautiful in their wild state, — are
greatly improved when transplanted into the flower-garden.
What an acquisition to our floral treasures would be a double
variety of Aster multifloj'us, with its pure white flowers ; or
A. pu?iiceus, with its lively blue ; or A. Novce Anglce, with its
purple flowers ; or what curious sports might be expected from
crossing the different species ! No doubt as great an improve-
ment might be made with our native perennial Asters, as has
been made with our annual China or German Asters, in their
improved state.
Then there is the extensive genus Solidago, embracing many
fine species of different heights, with their rich yellow flowers.
Of the Asclepias, what is prettier than A. decumbens and
tuberosum, with fine orange flowers — and other species with
red or purple ?
Some of the large family of Violas are very pretty. Our
Lilies, Lupins, Hepaticas, Geraniums, Gentians, Iris are
worthy a place in«the pleasure grounds.
The curious Orchideous and Trillium tribes, so wild in
their habits, and impatient of cultivation, might be introduced,
and a multitude of others, that would produce a fund of amuse-
ment to the cultivator, in watching the progress of improve-
ment, that might be developed from time to time, in efforts
made to perfect them. Among our shrubs, are many very
beautiful. What more so, than the Kalmia, Azalea, Rhodora,
and many others to be found in different locations ? Surely, in
making up our selections of plants, those of our own native
land should not be neglected.
BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
OLD-FASHIONED FLOWERS NOT TO BE DISCARDED.
In selecting for the garden, it should be borne in mind that
many of the new varieties of flowers, of recent introduction,
trumpeted forth, in advertisements and catalogues, as being
"exquisite, superb, unsurpassed," &c., are, many of them,
greatly inferior to the old and highly esteemed varieties of the
old-fashioned gardens. These time-honored denizens of the
flower-garden should not be discarded as antiquated and out
of fashion: My opinion is fully expressed in the following
article from the Gardener's Chronicle : —
" Among the many follies which the gardening world com-
mits, none is more striking to the looker-on, than the eagerness
with which old favorites are deserted for new ones. Of all
inconstant lovers, gardeners must surely be the most incon-
stant. To-day they are at the feet of a Dahlia ; to-morrow
there is no beauty like a Pansy, and both are presently deserted
for a Cineraria. In their eyes, old age is a crime, and aged
flowers are mercilessly consigned to the poor-house. We
remember when Cape plants were the rage ; a Brunsvigia, or
an Ixia, or a Protea, were standing toasts ; to possess such fair
objects was the height of man's ambition. But in a few years
these were thrown aside, and New Holland beauties supplanted
them ; to be succeeded by the flaunting, or shy and delicate,
natives of South America. If we look to a«i old garden cata-
logue, we can but wonder how the flower-garden was decorated
by our fathers ; for there we find little besides races now known
only by name.
" Marigolds and Candytufts, Love-lies-bleeding, Globes and
Balsams, Catchflies and Cockscombs, Daisies and Dittany,
Persicarias and Prince's Feather, Lupins, Tricolors and Mar-
vels of Peru, Sunflowers and Sweet Sultans, — pride of the
eighteenth century, — ye have all fallen victims to the flicker-
ing meteor called taste ; and are now only to be found in the
old drawers of old seed-shops, where you are but the curios-
SELECTIONS OF FLOWERING PLANTS FOR THE GARDEN. 29
ities of floriculture ; or in remote country gardens, not yet
reached by steam or electricity. Even in acknowledging an
acquaintance with Hollyhocks and China Asters, we do so
under a feeling of something like shame at being known to
keep such doubtful company.
" Are these follies to have an end ? Shall we never be wise
enough to look upon all flowers as equal ? Do we not yet
know that what is called the difference in their attractions, is
but a difference in our skill in managing them ; and that they
are all endowed with wondrous beauty, varying in kind, but
the same in nature ? Most especially must we inquire whether
the arts of the cultivator should be limited, as they are, to the
domestication of a few fashionable races, to the entire neglect
of the ancient inhabitants of the flower-garden ? A Hollyhock
is as showy as a Dahlia, infinitely more graceful, much easier
to cultivate, as prone to run into varieties, and hardy instead of
tender ; yet the lumpish Dahlia is seen everywhere ; socie-
ties are formed to admire it and to gamble in it ; and the Hol-
lyhock is consigned to a few places, where, as at Shrubland,
refined taste still excludes fashionable vulgarity. The Ama-
ranths are a race peculiarly suited for rich autumnal decoration,
— quick-growing, many-sized, and long-enduring, — no doubt
susceptible of further change ; but they are abandoned for the
sake of Petumias and Chrysanthemums. Surely it would be
wiser to try to improve those ancient races, which are so well
suited to our climate and our purses, than to limit our skill to
tampering with the constitutions of the delicate, though bril-
liant, strangers that have taken such entire possession of our
affections.
" Let no man say that they are incapable of improvement.
Who has tried the experiment ? Who has tried to cross the
Prince's Feather with the Cockscomb ? or Love-lies-bleeding
with the Tricolor ? or the Bee with the Dwarf Larkspur ? or
the Persicaria with the straggling Buckwheat, (Polygonum
divaricatum) ? or the Indian Pink with the Carnation ? or the
Marigold with the Coreopsis ? Until these trials have been
30 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
made, with at least as much care as has been shown in manag-
ing the Calcolaria, or the Pansy, we must be permitted to say
that our ancient friends are unfairly treated, and that we are
doing ourselves much disservice."
We shall be told that experiments of the class suggested are
hopeless. We believe them to be likely to lead to highly im-
portant consequences, expecially in those cases where the result
of success would be to improve a perennial by the aid of an
annual ; a very material consideration.
Plants should be chosen that will give a succession of flowers
from the early part of the spring till the winter closes the flow-
ering season. In this work we hope we have so described the
various plants, that almost any person of taste may be enabled
to select such as may be deemed proper to effect this object.
Those persons who can, conveniently, visit nurseries and gar-
dens during the season, will select more accurately by noticing
the plants when in bloom, as their true character and portrait
can be seen, and appreciated, far better than from any descrip-
tion that can be given.
ROCK-WORK.
There are many plants that succeed best -when planted
among rocks ; and, for their accommodation and to show off
their beauties to the greatest advantage, it is common in many
gardens, to have an appendage, called a rockery. This is made
of a collection of stones, in the rough or natural state, laid up
without much order, with soil, which should be concealed as
much as possible by the fragments of rock. As many of the
plants succeed best in the shade, a portion of the rock-work
should be partly surrounded with trees or shrubs, that they
may derive that advantage. Trilliums, Orchis, Cyprepediums,
and some few ferns, and a great variety of native plants
which are found in our woods, with an appropriate soil, would
flourish well in such a spot. The rockery should be partly, or
wholly, concealed from the general flower-garden by shrubs or
tree?. It may be approached from the main walk under a
SELECTIONS OF FLOWERING PLANTS FOR THE GARDEN. 31
rustic arch, mantled with climbers, or through a winding pas-
sage among evergreens. Rockeries should be formed as much
as possible of natural materials ; the stones, or fragments of
rock of which it is composed, should not bear the marks of the
quarry, or any art. For a small garden one collection of rocks
or stones, with a walk round it, will be sufficient ; but when a
person has some fancy, a variety of beds or collections may be
made with winding walks around them, which, if relieved with
some dwarf evergreen shrubs, may be made to show off a great
variety of dwarf plants to the very best advantage. Rockeries
should be conspicuous for a natural character. No appearance
of art, and no approach to the regularity or smoothness proper
to works of art, will be at all in place here. The surface of
the whole cannot be too irregular, or too variedly indented or
prominent. Evergreen shrubs of low growth will be particu-
larly useful in giving prominence to some portions of the work ;
provision will, therefore, have to be made, in the placing of the
stones, for planting a few shrubs, and a greater number of her-
baceous rock plants, in their interstices, which should be left
broader or smaller, according to the size of the plant that may
be required in them.
In arranging the stones, they should be laid upon their
broadest or flat sides, with the outer edge slanting downwards
rather than upwards. Any great elevation should never be
sought in small rockeries. This would be inconsistent with
their breadth, and would render them too prominent and artifi-
cial. There are many rocky locations in New England, which,
with a little study, might be converted into tasteful and beau-
tiful gardens, where all the fine creepers might display their
beauties on the more prominent points, and the more accessible
places be fitted up to receive the more humble dwarf species.
LAWNS.
No flower-garden can be complete without some grass.
There are but very few, however, who can afford the luxury
of an extensive grass lawn ; but every one wishes for a few
32 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
rods, at least, about the house ; this may lay between the house
and garden. When there is but a small surface to grass over,
it may be done with turf, if it can be obtained of a good
quality, which is not often the case. The best way is to begin
at the beginning, and do the work up thoroughly. First see
that the ground is well prepared by deep digging or trenching ;
for it is in vain to expect the lawn to preserve its greenness in
summer, unless the soil is pulverized so that the roots of the
grass may penetrate two feet deep. After the soil is thus pre-
pared and levelled, it should be left to settle a week or ten
days ; then it should be raked off smooth, and it will be ready
for the seed. The New England red-top, or bent grass, alone,
makes the finest lawn for this climate ; but if it is desirable to
give immediate effect to the lawn, there should be a mix-
ture of white Dutch clover. Three bushels of red-top to ten
pounds of white clover, or four bushels of red-top without
it, is none too much for an acre. This may seem a heavy
seeding, but it is none too much. After sowing the seed, it
should be rolled with a heavy roller.
To have a fine lawn, it is necessary not only to mow it
often, but roll it also, especially after a rain. By doing thus, a
close texture and fine velvety turf may be obtained.
REMARKS ON THE CULTIVATION OF PEREN-
NIALS, BIENNIALS, AND ANNUALS.
" A flowery crown will I compose —
I'll weave the Crocus, weave the Rose ;
I'll weave Narcissus, newly wet,
The Hyacinth and Violet ;
The Myrtle shall supply me green,
And Lilies laugh in light between ;
That the rich tendrils of my beauty's hair
May burst into their crowning flowers, and light the painted air."
PERENNIALS are those plants which do not in their growth
form either trees or shrubs, but which lose their tops, wholly
or in part, every year, after they have done flowering; the
roots continuing to live and generate for several years suc-
cessively.
Biennials are those plants that flower the second and some-
times the third year from the time the seeds are sown, and
then perish, as the Hollyhock.
Imperfect Perennials continue three or more years, and then
die, as the Sweet William or Fox Glove, but which, with a
little care in dividing the roots every year, can be kept many
years.
Perennials are hardy, half-hardy, and tender. Hardy
perennials stand the hardest winter without protection ; half-
hardy require to be well protected; and tender perennials
must be kept through the winter in the green-house.
Perennials are of two kinds, bulbous and herbaceous, which,
differing materially from each other in habits, require, conse-
quently, a different kind of treatment. Such being the case,
a few remarks will be made on each kind separately.
BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
BULBOUS PERENNIALS.
They are of three kinds, — viz., hardy, or such as grow in
the open border ; half-hardy, such as will not stand out over
winter, or requiring a frame or the green-house ; and stove, or
those that will not grow to perfection without artificial heat.
Of these last we shall have nothing to say. Many of the half-
hardy are perfected when planted in the open ground in the
spring, and are sometimes called spring bulbs, as the Gladi-
olus, &c.
The Anemone and Ranunculus, are half-hardy, requiring
the protection of a frame or otherwise.
Hardy bulbs, with few exceptions, are remarkably easy of
cultivation, and, if planted in proper soil and situation, seldom
fail to produce plenty of offsets and seeds for propagation.
The best kind of soil for their growth is a light loam, rather
sandy than otherwise, yet not too light, or the bulbs will be
injured during the heat of summer, and, if adhesive, they
invariably grow weakly, and seldom flower.
As to the depth the different bulbs require to be planted in
the ground, no certain rule can be laid down, as some species
require to be planted from three to five inches, while others not
more than one and a half, deep. The different depths will be
given as each variety in species is described.
Encourage as much as possible the growth of the leaves, by
giving them free exposure to light and air; for on the full
development of these depends the success of the bulbs flower-
ing another year. If the leaves grow strong, a good quantity
of strong pulp is stored up in the bulbs, and a good bloom is
the consequence.
Never, if it can be avoided, disturb the roots by removal
during their growth : but if obliged to do so, select a wet day,
and take them up with good balls, so as not to injure the
fibrous roots.
The only time to remove them with success, is during
the time of their torpidity, at which time the offsets may
PERENNIALS AND BIENNIALS. 35
be separated, and planted where the cultivator may judge
best.
The season of rest, for most bulbs, happens shortly after
they have done flowering. Tulip and Hyacinth bulbs are
generally ripe in about one month from the time of flower-
ing. As soon as the foliage of the Tulip turns purple and
begins to dry, the bulbs may be taken up ; and, with the Hya-
cinth, before the foliage is fully decayed. As a general rule,
when the tops have quite died down, the bulbs may be taken
up and separated.
With the exception of Tulips, Hyacinths, Narcissus, and
some others, most hardy bulbs are injured if kept long out of
ground, as the Lily tribe, Crown Imperial, &c. It is best to
plant immediately offsets of bulbs, of every description, for if
kept long out of ground they become exhausted and perish.
Bulbs that have commenced growing, before planting, are
always weakened ; yet ignorant purchasers will frequently
select such because they look more lively. If they have made
much growth, the bulb will not flower at all.
Some tuberous roots are classed with bulbous roots. Strictly
speaking, it is not correct, but for convenience sake we shall so
consider them. The Dahlia and Peony are, properly, tuber-
ous roots. Of these, directions for cultivation will be given
when described.
HERBACEOUS PERENNIALS AND BIENNIALS.
The mode of cultivating this class of plants is perfectly
easy ; three things chiefly have to be attended to. First, the
manner of propagation. Second, the most suitable soil. Third,
the requisite temperature. There are five methods of propa-
gation practised: by divisions, suckers, layers, seeds, and
cuttings.
Dividing the Roots. — This may be done either with a kind
of knife, if the plant is small, or a spade, if it is strong and
large. The best time for doing it is when the tops are just
beginning to grow after having been cut down.
36 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
The roots may be divided in the spring, or almost any time
(with some species) during the summer, after flowering. The
month of August is a proper time for many kinds, as the
divisions will take strong hold before winter, and be prepared
to flower strongly the next year.
Suckers. — These may be taken up at any time when they
appear, but the most usual time is when the plant is beginning
to grow.
Seed. — Sow, for the most part, in early spring, in light soil,
and plant out in the following autumn in the situations where
they are to flower. Many of the fine double and other varie-
ties never produce seed.
Layers and Cuttings. — Thrifty, succulent shoots, if partly
cut through, and pegged down, and covered with earth, will
take root, as is the case with the Pinks and Carnations. Cut-
tings of many plants will take root, with proper care.
Soil. — Different species of plants require rather different
kinds of soil ; but a light, rich loam will suit the greater part
of plants.
Temperature. — Hardy, half-hardy, and green-house plants
require similar care, except the amount of protection or
quantity of heat, to bring them into the most perfect state.
ANNUALS.
The plants generally known as annuals, are raised from the
seed, perfect their flowers, mature their seed the same season,
and then perish. There are some flowers, however, cultivated
as annuals, that are such only in a northern climate, being in
their own more congenial region perennials, or biennials.
Among them are the Verbena, Chriseis, or Eschscholtzia, as it
was formerly called, Commelina, Mirabilis, and many others.
This class of annuals may be kept through the winter in green-
houses or in any light cellars. Annuals are most appropriate
for those who are changing their abode from year to year, as
from these alone a fine display may be kept up the whole sea-
37
son, with the exception of the vernal months, and this deficiency
may be supplied by having a choice collection of perennials,
grown in pots, which can be plunged in the ground, and thus
removed at any time when it is necessary to change the resi-
dence.
No collection of plants can be perfect without an abundance
of annuals, as they can be disposed of in such a way as to suc-
ceed the perennials, and keep up a continuous bloom in all
parts of the garden through the season.
Annuals may be divided as follows : — hardy, half-hardy,
and tender.
Hardy annuals are such as may be sown in autumn or very
early in the spring, as all the Larkspurs, Chriseis, Clarkea,
Asters, Candytufts, &c. Half-hardy are those which will not
bear a hard frost, and therefore not proper to plant in the open
ground before the middle or last of May, as the Balsam Cocks-
comb, Marigold, &c. Tender annuals can hardly be brought
to perfection without starting them in artificial heat, in a hot-
bed or otherwise, and are very sensitive of cold, as the Cypress
vine, Thunbergia, Ice Plant, Sensitive Plant, &c. Many of
these, in a very warm season, will succeed tolerably well if
planted about the 1st of June ; but to have them in perfection
they should be raised in a hot-bed, in pots, and turned out in
the ground the middle of June.
Before sowing annuals, the soil in which they are to be
grown should be made light and rich, and very finely pulver-
ized, as many of the seeds are very small, and require every
advantage and care to get them up. The small seeds must
receive but little covering, and that of the finest earth. In
sowing these, my practice is to sow them in patches six or
eight inches square. The soil having been well prepared, I
settle the ground gently with the foot or a small piece of board,
so as to make an even, somewhat firm, surface. The seeds are
then evenly strewed over the surface. Then take some very
fine soil and sift or strew over them, covering the seed not
more than one eighth of an inch deep, after which press the
4
38 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
soil again with the board gently. It is now of great importance
that the seeds, as they vegetate, should be protected from the
scorching sari; an evergreen bough is as good as anything to
shade them. The soil must not be permitted to get dry until
the young plants have acquired some strength ; after which
they may be left to take their chance from the effects of sun or
dryness. When the plants are of a proper size, and the weather
suitable, they may be taken up with a transplanting trowel,
and set where wanted. A small patch of this description will
afford plants enough for any common garden. In removing
them, a number may be taken up together without disturbing
the roots; but when the plants have become established, aft
may be cut off except the strongest ones. As a general rule, a
single plant gives better satisfaction than when a number are
grown together, except when planted in masses, or where there
is to be a group. The beauty of many annuals is completely
destroyed by huddling them together. Give every plant room
according to its habits. A single plant, well trained, may be
madev. very beautiful; while a number of the same species,
grown together, without sufficient room, would be worthless.
Larkspur, and many other seeds, should be sown where they
are to remain. A bed of Double Eocket Larkspur, well man-
aged, is almost equal to a bed of Hyacinths, when in bloom.
This succeeds best when sown late in autumn or very early in
the spring. The seed may be sown in drills, eight or ten inches
apart, in beds, and the plants well thinned out. Larkspur, and
many other hardy annual seeds, if sown late in autumn, and lie
dormant all winter, will give much stronger plants than the
same kinds of seed sown very early in the spring, notwith-
standing those sown in the spring may appear above ground
as soon as those sown in autumn. The reason probably is,
that the autumnal sown seeds are so prepared, by the action
of the frost, that they start with greater vigor, and consequently
are more robust than the spring sown seeds.
Some seeds are difficult to germinate. Cypress vine is an
example. This requires scalding, to facilitate its germination;
ANNUALS. 39
or, if the hull is carefully taken off with a penknife, so as not
to injure the germ, the object is effected, and it will imme-
diately vegetate. The seeds of Gomphrena globosa (Globe
Amaranth) is encased in a thick coating of woolly substance,
which greatly retards vegetation. This, with the hull, if taken
off, causes the germ to push immediately ; or, if the seed is
soaked in milk twenty -four hours, it will soon start ; but, if
planted with the coating on, or without soaking, very few will
appear above ground.
As a general rule, the depth of planting flower seeds is to
be governed by the size. For example, the Sweet Pea and
Lupine may be planted an inch deep, and so in proportion. An-
nuals have a pleasing effect when planted in masses, particu-
larly when the pleasure-ground is extensive. For this purpose,
the Verbenas, of various colors, Portulaccas, Nemophylla,
Chriseis, Phlox Drummondii, Coreopsis Drummondii, Candy-
tufts, and many other dwarf plants, are desirable. Beds of
any of these, or others of similar habit, in a well-managed grass
lawn, are very ornamental. The beds should be either round,
oval, starry, or irregular; but never square, diamond shape, or
triangular. Masses of annuals may be so arranged as to make
a grand display in the common flower-garden. We have seen
the walks of an extensive flower-garden deeply edged with a
wide border of crimson and scarlet Portulaccas; and, throughout
the whole garden, all the annuals, and other plants, in fact,
were planted in masses. We have never seen a better managed
garden than this one. It contained about an acre of ground.
Not more than twenty or thirty kinds of annuals were cultivated
in the garden, and of this class of plants more than one half
of the ground was filled. They consisted of every variety of
Double Balsams, German Asters, Drummond Phlox, Coreopsis,
Amaranths, Verbenas, Portulaccas, Double China Pinks, Petu-
nias, Mignionette, Cockscombs, Gilliflowers, &c.
ON THE CULTURE OF HARDY DECIDUOUS
AND EVERGREEN SHRUBS.
" I like a shrubbery, too, it looks so fresh ;
And then there is some variety about it.
In spring, the Lilac and the Snowball flower,
And the Laburnum, with its golden strings
Waving in the wind ; and when the autumn comes,
The bright red berries of the Mountain-ash,
With pines enough, in winter, to look green,
And show that something lives."
THE flower-garden will be incomplete without a shrubbery.
A collection of shrubs and trees, embracing the different vari-
eties to be obtained at our nurseries, will add much to the
interest of the pleasure-ground. They should not be planted
at regular distances, or in straight lines, as in that way they
look too set and unnatural ; but, when grouped together, the
various sorts gracefully intermingled with the taller species in
the background, they present, at all seasons of the year, an
interesting sight.
Shrubs are divided into two classes — Deciduous and Ever-
green. Deciduous shrubs are those which lose their leaves in
autumn. However uninteresting the naked branches of this
class of shrubs may appear, to the careless observer, when
denuded of their foliage, they are not devoid of beauty to the
lovers of nature ; but, when mingled with evergreens, are
pleasing even in winter. The twigs of some species are red ;
others yellow, or various shades of brown ; and then many
species are covered with a profusion of berries, of different col-
ors, which, contrasting with the evergreens, give a lively look
to the shrubbery, even in the most dreary months.
The culture of hardy shrubs is, in general, simple and easy.
The chief things to be noticed are, — the proper season for
planting, the situation in which the plants will thrive, the
HARDY DECIDUOUS AND EVERGREEN SHRUBS. 41
kind of soil best suited to their growth, and the encouragement
given to enable them to thrive afterwards.
The proper Season for Planting. — As soon as the leaves
begin to fall, in October, deciduous trees may be planted with
safety, with few exceptions. Altheas, and some other sorts
liable to be winter-killed, had better not be removed until
spring. The spring planting, of all deciduous trees and shrubs,
should be done as early as possible, — as soon as the ground
can be worked to advantage, and before the buds begin to
expand.
Evergreens, in general, if carefully taken up, may be planted
with success in any season of the year, provided dull and
dripping weather be taken advantage of for that purpose.
There are particular seasons, however, when they will thrive
with much greater freedom than at others. I have been as
successful about the first of June as at any other time, and
have also succeeded in planting, the 1st of July, and in August;
but, as a general rule, when they commence their growth,- the
last of May. It is indispensable that all large trees and shrubs
be removed with good balls, and that the roots be uninjured.
In planting evergreens, (and the same may be said of deciduous
trees,) whether it be done on a dull day, a wet day, or a dry
day, it is very necessary to keep in view the expediency of
keeping the plants for as short time out of the ground as pos-
sible, — if only a few minutes, so much the better. If any
quantity are to be planted, the plants should be " heeled in," as
it is termed, (that is, the roots covered with earth,) and taken
out, as they are wanted. I have generally been successful,
without watering as I planted ; but others think it necessary,
and one writer says : —
" In all seasons, situations, and soils, the plants should be
well soaked with water as soon as the earth is put about the
roots. Where the water is not at hand, so that it may not be
easily carried or wheeled by men, a horse with a water-barrel
on wheels should be used. As soon as the plant has been put
into its place the earth should be filled in, leaving a sufficient
4*
42 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
hollow round the stem, and as far as the roots extend, to hold
water, which should then be poured on in sufficient quantity to
soak the ground down to the lowest parts of the roots ; in
short, the whole should be made like a kind of puddle.
" By this practice, which is particularly necessary in spring
and autumn planting, the earth is carried down by the water,
and, every crevice among the roots is filled. Care must always
be taken to have as much earth above the roots of the plants
as will prevent their being exposed when the water has sub-
sided. The best plan is to take an old birch broom, or any-
thing similar, arid, laying it down near the root, pour the water
upon it ; this breaks the fall of the water, and prevents the
roots from being washed bare of such earth as may adhere to
them. In this way time is saved, for the water may be poured
out in a full stream from the pail, a watering-pot, or even from
a spout or pipe in the water-cart or barrel, when the situation
is such that this can be brought up to the plant.
" After the first watering is dried up, the earth should be
levelled round the stem of the plant, and as far out as the
water has been put on, but not trod. If the plants are large, a
second watering is sometimes necessary ; but in ordinary sized
plants, one watering is quite sufficient. And, after remaining
twenty-four hours, more or less, according to the nature of the
soil, the earth about the stem and over the roots should be
trod as firm as possible, and, after treading, should be dressed
with a rake."
" The Situations in which the plants will thrive. — With
regard to the situation in which each shrub should be planted,
little can be said here. To fosm a correct judgment of this, a
knowledge of the natural habits of each is required. This
knowledge may be easily obtained by referring to a botanical
catalogue and other works treating on the subject. Some
shrubs love a dry and elevated situation, and will not thrive,
crowded with others; some are rather tender, and must have
warm and sheltered places ; others are very hardy, and will
thrive planted anywhere ; others, again, will not grow freely,
HARDY DECIDUOUS AND EVERGREEN SHRUBS. 43
unless they are placed in low, damp ground ; and others do not
flourish if much exposed to the rays of the sun.
" The kind of Soil best suited for them. — With respect to
soil, hardy shrubs may be divided into two kinds, viz., first,
shrubs requiring common soil ; and, second, those shrubs con-
stituting the American garden. A rich, light, hazel loam,
undoubtedly suits the greater part of the first class of plants,
although many of the stronger-growing kinds will make fine
bushes on almost any kind of soil. The American plants,
Kalmias, Rhododendrons, Andromedas. &c., &c., make the finest
plants and the best show, if they are planted in a soil com-
posed for the most part of sandy peat ; but, in the absence of
this, a very good compost may be made for them of light
hazelly loam, river sand, and vegetable or leaf mould, equal
parts, or a little peat earth mixed with it. After having taken
out the original soil from the proposed border to about a foot
and a half deep, substitute the above mixture in its place.
" To encourage the growth of the Shrubs after being planted.
— Whilst the plants are small, constantly keep down all rank-
growing weeds, and clear off all rubbish that would otherwise
retard their growth ; also they receive much benefit by the sur-
face of the ground being often stirred with a Dutch hoe, as it
prevents the surface baking hard in dry weather."
Watering shrubs, except in peculiar situations, during dry
summers, appears to be of very little if any benefit ; on the
other hand, it takes up much time, and is the means of the
ground baking hard when dried by the sun again. When they
have advanced to a large size, all the care that is required is to
cut off the overhanging branches, so as not to allow them to
smother each other, or the stems of those overhung will become
naked and unsightly.
A DESCRIPTIVE LIST OF BULBOUS-ROOTED PLANTS, WITH
DIRECTIONS FOR THEIR CULTIVATION.
"Fair-handed Spring unbosoms every grace ;
Throws out the Snow-drop and the Crocus first ;
The Daisy, Primrose, Violet darkly blue,
And Polyanthus of unnumbered dyes ;
The yellow Wall-flower stained with iron-brown,
And lavish stock that scents the garden round."
ANEMONE.
Wind Flower — Garden Anemone.
" See ! yon Anemones their leaves unfold,
With rubies flaming, and with living gold."
VERY little attention has been paid, in this section of the
country, to the cultivation of this most beautiful flower, from
the fact, probably, that it will not stand our winters, unless
planted in a frame, or otherwise protected. With this precau-
tion, arid some little attention, it will abundantly repay all the
labor that may be bestowed upon it.
I have succeeded very well, in its cultivation, by keeping the
roots out of ground until March, and then planting them in a
bed prepared in the fall, that had been kept covered till the
time of planting. The roots of Anemones are solid, flattened
masses, like those of ginger, arid, like them, are multiplied by
divisions of the root.
The Anemone hortensis, or garden Anemone, is the species
from which all the fine varieties of the florist's flowers origi-
nated. More than one hundred and fifty choice varieties are
enumerated in some of the Dutch catalogues of the present
day, classed as follows : — red, or blood color ; rosy and white,
flamed with purple ; sky blue ; purple or ash color ; rosy, with
ANEMONE.
45
green, and white, and agate. One hundred choicest varieties
may be obtained for 50 francs, or about $10.
A fine double Anemone should stand upon a strong, elastic,
and erect stem, not less than nine inches high. The blossom,
or corolla, should be at least two and a half inches in diameter.
The outer petals, or guard leaves, should be substantial, well
rounded, at first horizontally extended, and then turning a little
upwards, so as to form a broad, shallow cup, the interior part
of which should contain a great number of long, small petals,
imbricating each other, and rather reverting from the centre of
the blossom. There are a great number of small stamens
intermixed with these petals, but they are short, and not easily
discernible. The color should be clear and distinct when
diversified in the same flower, or brilliant and striking if it
consists only of one color, as blue, crimson, or scarlet, &c., in
which case the bottom of the broad exterior petals is generally
white ; but the beauty and contrast are greatly increased when
both the exterior and interior petals are regularly marked with
alternate blue and white, or pink and white stripes, &c., which
in the broad petals should not extend quite to the margin.
Propagation. — By dividing the roots for the fine sorts, and
by seed for new varieties.
Soil and Situation. — The situation should be open, but not
exposed to currents of air. As "to the soil to grow them in,
various are the composts prescribed by florists. They require
a fresh, strong, rich, loamy soil. Hogg recommends fresh
loam, with a considerable portion of rotten horse or cow dung.
The bed should be dug eighteen inches deep, and filled with
the rich compost, a little above the level of the walk ; then lay
a stratum of good rich mould, two inches deep, over the com-
post, on which to plant the roots, as the dung or very rich
compost in contact with the roots would prove injurious rather
than beneficial.
Planting. — After the bed is thus prepared, and has stood
long enough to settle, the frame should be placed upon it.
Fall planting is much the best, if the bed can be kept from
46 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
very severe frost, or if not kept so warm as to start the foliage.
Late fall or early spring planting is the best.
The roots should be planted in rows six inches apart, and
the same distance from each other in the rows. A little care
is necessary, in planting, to place the roots right-side up. By
close examination, the eyes, from which the steins and flowers
are to proceed, can be distinguished, which, of course, must be
planted uppermost. After the roots are placed on the bed,
they must be carefully covered two inches deep with good
sound garden mould. This is the proper depth. When the
bed is all completed, the surface should be three or four inches
above the walk. They will be in flower in June, and, if shaded
from the sun, will continue to display their beauties a long
time.
Taking up the Roots. — When the foliage begins to turn
brown and dry, the roots should be taken up and dried in the
shade. When properly dried and kept from moisture, they
may be kept out of ground two or three years without injury.
AMARYLLIS.
Amaryllis for mosissima, or Jacobean Lily, is a flower of great
beauty. It is a tender bulb, but succeeds well when planted
in May, in the open border, in a rich, sandy soil. The top of
the bulb should hardly be covered with earth. The flowers
are large and of a very deep red. The under petals hang
down, the upper curl up, and the whole flower stands nodding
on one side of the stalk, making a fine appearance. The bulb
rarely produces more than two flowers, and more frequently
but one, about one foot high, flowering in June or July. Upon
the approach of freezing weather, the bulbs must be taken up,
dried, and put away in dry sawdust, where they will be secure
from frost.
CROCUS DAHLIA. 47
CROCUS.
"Glad as the spring, when the first Crocus comes
To laugh amid the shower."
The Spring Crocus is a very common bulbous-rooted plant,
of which there are many varieties annually imported from
Holland, and sold at very low prices. The most prominent
sorts are the great yellow, deep blue, light blue, white with
blue stripes, blue with white stripes, white with a purple
base, pure white, cloth of gold, &c. It flowers in April, and
in warm seasons, in sheltered places, frequently in March.
Where there is a plenty of them, they make a magnificent
show. The bulbs are small, solid, and flat. They should be
planted, in September or October, about one inch or one and a
half inches deep, in any good garden soil. They are very hardy,
and the only difficulty is their liability to be thrown out by the
frost, when the ground is bare, towards spring. To remedy
this evil, some light substance should be thrown over them, to
shade them from the action of the sun. After flowering, when
the leaves have decayed, the roots may be taken up, and kept,
until they are wanted to plant in autumn, in some cool, dry
place ; or they may remain in the ground a number of years
without removing.
DAHLIA.
"In queenly elegance the Dahlia stands,
And waves her coronet."
The Dahlia is a native of Mexico, found on the table lands
of that country, and I have sometimes wished it had been let
alone there, "to waste its sweets on the desert air." It is so
capricious in its flowering, so subject to the ravages of insects,
so much influenced by too much heat, or too much dryness, or
too much wet ; and then, just as it begins to give promise of
48 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
abundant bloom, having escaped all the casualties of the
season, is cut down by the frost, and becomes a blackened,
hideous object in the garden; that, after many disappointed
hopes, I have sometimes been disposed to say, I would not try
it again. It must be confessed, however, it is on some accounts
desirable : the flowers are large, gorgeous in color, sporting into
every tint except blue. The shape, too, is perfect, although a
little too set and prim, as though it was made for the occasion.
The habits of the plant are coarse and vulgar, and the smell
thereof rather repulsive ; but, with all its failings, it is a popular
flower, — one which will find favor with the multitude.
It was first introduced into England in the year 1789, was
but little noticed, and soon lost. It was reintroduced in 1804,
then a single purple flower of not much interest. It is only
within the last twenty years that it has received the attention
of the florist. From the single purple and scarlet variety, all
the numerous family of florists' flowers have been produced ; a
striking example of what may be done by patience and perse-
verance in the skilful cultivation of a simple flower.
The root is tuberous and tender. Freezing destroys it at
once ; it can, therefore, be planted only in the spring.
Propagation. — It is propagated by seeds, divisions of the
root, and by cuttings.
By Seed. — If the seed is sown in a hot-bed, in April, and
the plants set out in the open ground in June, most of them
will flower the same season, and though not one in a hundred
or thousand may come up to the standard of a perfect flower,
yet it is very interesting to mark the curious sports which are
often made in these seedings. Many of them will make a
greater show in the shrubbery than the more perfect sorts.
What is lacking in shape and size, is made up in the profu-
sion of bloom.
By Divisions of the Root. — This is the most common mode
of propagation, unless it be with the nursery-man, who raises
from cuttings. It is best to place the roots, or stool, as it is called,
before divided, on gentle heat, if the buds have not started; or
DAHLIA. 49
cover them over with a little earth, in a warm place, the begin-
ning of May, so as to start the buds before the roots are
divided. Without this course, it will be impossible to divide
the tubers so as to be sure of a bud on each ; and without a bud
a tuber is worthless. The buds having appeared, clean the
roots from soil, and with a sharp knife divide the stool in such
a manner that a bud may be secured to each division. The
smallest tuber, with a bud, will make a strong plant.
By Cuttings. — This process requires so much care and
attention, that I must refer my readers to works on the subject
of propagation.
Plants raised by cuttings have never succeeded so well with
me as from divisions of the root. The reason may be, that in
the propagation of new varieties, in the desire to realize as
much as possible, weak shoots are taken, and forced so rapidly,
and become so attenuated and weakened, that they never
recover. True it is, that, after paying extravagant prices for
new sorts, 1 have frequently been disappointed in not having
a single bloom; and, what is worse, the roots may not get
strength enough to stand through the winter, even with the
greatest care.
Soil and Cultivation. — Too much has been said and written
upon the cultivation of the Dahlia. After following the direc-
tions given by various amateurs and writers, and after taking
much pains and care in cultivation, I have been chagrined to
find that the refuse of my roots, planted without care, and very
little manure, in yellow loamy soil, have far outstripped those
on which more abundant pains had been bestowed. The
Dahlia likes a humid atmosphere, such as we rarely have in
this country. It frequently begins to flower, and promises
well in July, but on the last of that month and August our
scorching sun and arid atmosphere, together with the insects
that prey upon it, operate so unfavorably that it hardly recovers
before it is overtaken with frost. While I resided in Lancas-
ter, my garden was situated on the banks of a branch of the
Nashua River. In hot weather, a damp or mist rose from the
5
50 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
river every night, and gave my Dahlia plants a good wetting1.
I did riot have any difficulty then with the Dahlia ; it flowered
in great profusion, having had nearly one hundred blooms
upon a plant at one time. The mode of cultivation then was :
first, a hole excavated two or three feet across, and about fifteen
inches deep, the poor soil taken out, and its place supplied with
the adjoining surface soil, then about two shovelfuls of strong
manure, partly decomposed, from the stable, thrown in and
well incorporated with the soil ; then the stake for the support
of the plant firmly fixed in the ground ; then the surface
levelled, and all was ready for planting. If tubers are used
without b^ing forced, they may be planted any time after the
middle of May, covering the crown of the tuber about two
inches, slanting the other end downwards. Plants, raised in
pots or cuttings, may be turned into the ground any time in
Jane. I have succeeded in producing fine flowers from dry
tubers planted the first of July. As a general rule, let the soil
be rich and deep ; let the plants be well attended to by tying
up to the stake, — which should be strong, and from five to six
feet above the surface. As the plants advance, syringe the
foliage every night in dry weather; sift over the plants fine
air-slacked lime to kill the insects, if you can ; mulch the
ground about them ; give them guano-water twice a week in
August; and, if you are rewarded for your pains, it is more
than I have been in most seasons.
Dahlias look best when planted in groups, as they hide each
other's ugliness, and if they flower, and a variety of colors
be combined in the group, they make a very imposing appear-
ance.
Taking up and Preserving the Roots. — When the first frost
strikes the Dahlias so as to blacken the plant, a few inches of
soil should be added to the crown of the plant, to prevent the
tubers from being injured by freezing, which might happen
unexpectedly some cold night. Taking some pleasant day, the
last of October or the first of November, the tops of the plants
should be cut down near the ground, and the stakes pulled up.
FERRARIA. 51
Then very carefully lift the roots from the ground. This is
best done by two persons, with spades, operating on each side
of the roots, as when taken from the ground they are very brittle
and easily broken off. Let them be carefully deposited on the
surface, where they should remain during the day exposed to
the sun and air. Before night sets in, they should be removed
to a dry, airy cellar, and deposited on shelves raised a few feet
from the cellar bottom; here they will remain with perfect
safety, provided they can have a little air occasionally in
pleasant weather. They should, however, be placed singly on
the shelves; as, when they are packed close, or one upon
another, they are liable to mould and decay. The most danger
to be apprehended is from excessive dampness ; but sometimes
roots kept in a cellar where there is a furnace, may be
injured by excessive dryness, and the roots become shrivelled
and dried. There is no danger from rats or mice or any other
creature. I never knew an animal to touch them. You could
not catch an old rat even to smell of them the second time.
FEKRARIA.
Tiger Flower.
The Mexican Tiger Flower, or Ferraria pavonia, and F.
conchiflora, are flowers of exquisite beauty. The bulbs are
tunicated, producing from one to four stems each, from eiorh-
teen inches to two feet high ; the flowers are of short duration.
It is born to display its glory but for a few hours, when the
sun totally destroys all vestiges of its beauty ; but, to compen-
sate for this sudden decline, it continues to produce its flowers
a number of weeks. The shape of the flower is singularly
curious, and the coloring of each variety gorgeous. The
flowers of the first-named variety are of the richest scarlet
imaginable, variegated with a bright golden yellow. The
ground-work of jP. conchiflora is of the richest orange, varie-
52 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
gated with light yellow, and spotted with black. No flower
can exceed it in beauty ; but nature does not lavish all her
sweets upon one flower ; — in this there is no scent. The
flowers are large, and produced in July and August. It is
properly a green-house plant, but is easily cultivated in the
open air. The bulbs should be planted about the middle of
May, about two inches deep, in any rich garden-soil, and
require no particular care. The bulbs and offsets should
be taken up in October, and dried ; but be particular not to
expose them to frost while drying, or at any other time, as that
would destroy them. They may be kept in dry sand, saw-
dust, or moss, until the time of planting in the spring. The
mice are very fond of the roots, and, if they find them, but few,
if any, will be left to plant.
FRITILLARIA.
Fritillary.
The Crown Imperial, or Fritillaria imperialis, is supposed
to be a native of Persia. There are many varieties ; all hand-
some, varying in color; viz., bright yellow, scarlet, orange
scarlet, double red, double yellow, gold-striped-leaved, silver-
striped-leaved, &c. This species is less esteemed that its
beauty merits, on account of its strong, and, to some, its disa-
greeable scent. It flowers in April ; the bulb throws up a
strong, vigorous stem, three or four feet high, producing near the
top a crown of beautiful, drooping, bell-shaped flowers, making
a very conspicuous object at a season when but few flowers
grace the garden. Above the crown of flowers the stem ter-
minates in a tuft of its glossy green foliage. The nectaries are
very curious ; each cell, six in number, contains a large drop,
which looks like a brilliant pearl. When the flower decays,
the seed-vessels take the reverse of the flower, and stand erect.
The bulbs are large and fleshy, somewhat solid : they do not
GALANTHUS. 53
keep well long out of the ground. When the stem dies down,
the root should be taken up and replanted, if necessary ; but
this need not be done oftener than, once in four or five years.
They should be planted four inches deep, in a rich, deep garden
soil.
The Persian Fritillary or Persian Lily, (Fritillaria Persica,)
bears a spike of brownish-purple flowers, growing at the top of
the stem in the form of a pyramid ; they open in May ; stems
three feet high ; bulb similar to the last, except more elon-
gated. To be treated in every way like the Crown Imperial.
The Common Fritillary, or Chequered Lily, (F. melegaris,)
is sometimes called the Guinea Hen Flower, on account of its
chequered or spotted flowers. There are many varieties ; the
colors, various shades of brown, purple, and yellow, curiously
mottled, spotted or chequered. The bulbs are about the size
of the crocus roots, of the character of the other fritillary bulbs,
but more flattened; stems eight or ten inches high, with one or
more gracefully-drooping, bell-shaped flowers, in April or May;
to be planted in groups in good garden soil, two inches deep.
They should not be kept long out of the ground.
GALANTHUS.
Snow-Drop.
" Already now the Snow-drop dares appear,
The first pale blossom of the unripened year 5
And Flora's breath, by some transforming power,
Had changed an icicle into a flower."
Galanthus nivalis. — The Snow-drop is the earliest flower of
all the garden tribe, and will even show her head above the
snow, as if to prove her rivalry with whiteness. Every third
year the roots should be taken up, in June or July, when the
leaves are decayed and kept in a dry place till August, when
they should be replanted. The bulbs are very small. To
5*
54 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
make them look well and to produce a pretty effect when in
bloom, about twenty should be planted together in a clump, one
and one half or two inches deep. There is a variety with
double flowers ; both sorts desirable ; about six inches high in
March and April.
ft The Snow-drop, who, in habit white and plain,
Comes on, the herald of fair Flora's train."
There is a flower called the Leucojum, or Great Snow-Drop,
very similar to this, but twice the size. Of this there are three
kinds: the Spring, the Summer, and the Autumnal Snow-drop.
The bulbs are much larger; should be planted five inches from
each other, four inches deep. " We look upon the snow-drop
as a friend in adversity, sure to appear when most needed."
"Lone flower, hemmed in with snows, and white as they."
GLADIOLUS.
Corn-Flag.
Gladiolus communis is a hardy, showy border-flower, of
which there are several varieties in cultivation, viz., white,
purple, and red. They should be planted in October, on a rich
sandy soil, about two and a half inches deep, arid require
little protection, except the purple variety. They have a flag-
like foliage, and produce their flowers on long, one-sided
spikes, or racemes, about two feet high, in June and July. The
bulbs have some resemblance to those of the crocus, and
are treated in the same way.
Gladiolus byzanteum is also hardy, and requires the same
treatment ; flowers purplish-red. The Gladiolus family in-
cludes many brilliant species and varieties ; most of them
green-house plants. Many of them, however, succeed well in
the open ground, when planted in the border in May; but it is
necessary to take them up in October, and keep the roots dry,
HYACINTHS. 55
and from the frost, till the time of planting again. All the
species delight in a rich, light, sandy loam, and should not be
planted more than one and a half inches under the surface.
Gladiolus natalensis, called by some psittacinus, has not
been known many years among us, and was considered, when
first introduced, as being very superb; but it has such a pro-
pensity to increase, that it has become very common, and is
now looked upon with indifference. The flowers are scarlet,
on a greenish-yellow ground, produced in long, one-sided
spikes; the stems sometimes four feet high, with fifteen or
twenty buds and blooms. In perfection in August.
G. natalensis has, within a few years, been eclipsed by the
magnificent variety, G. gandavensis, producing long spikes of
the most vivid scarlet flowers. I have had flowering stems
four and five feet high, which threw out a succession of spikes
of its rich and brilliant blossoms.
G. floribunda is another beautiful species, with a profusion
of delicate pink flowers, marked with purple, about two or
three feet high, in August. The treatment of all the tender vari-
eties is similar ; if they are planted in pots, forwarded in a
hot bed, and turned into the open ground in June, they flower
some earlier, and grow stronger.
There are other beautiful species and varieties, one of which
is G. cardinalis, with scarlet flowers spotted with white, but
most of them do not succeed well in the open ground.
HYACINTHUS.
Garden Hyacinth.
" Hyacinth, with sapphire bell
Curling backwards."
" The youths whose locks divinely spreading,
Like vernal Hyacinths in sullen hue."
The Hyacinth is a highly esteemed florist's flower, of easy
culture, of which more than one thousand varieties are culti-
56 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
vated in Holland, forming quite an important item in the exports
of that country, and from whence, Great Britain, the United
States, arid all Europe, receive their annual supplies, and, in
fact, all parts of the world. Hyacinths are double and single ;
of various colors, embracing every shade of red, from a deep
crimson pink down to white; of blue, from white to almost, black,
and some few yellow and salmon color ; but the shades of yel-
low are not very brilliant, and appear yellow only in contrast with
the white. Some of the white, and other light varieties, have
red, blue, purple or yellow eyes, which ad£ much to the beauty
of the flower ; and others are more or less striped or shaded ;
and some are tipped with green. The double varieties are
generally considered the finest, but many of the single sorts
are equally desirable, as what is deficient in the size of the bell
is made up in the greater number of them ; some of the single
sorts are the richest in color.
The stem of a fine double Hyacinth should be strong, tall,
and erect, supporting numerous large bells, each suspended by
a short and strong peduncle, or foot-stalk, in a horizontal posi-
tion, so that the whole may have a compact pyramidal form,
with the crown, or uppermost bell, perfectly erect.
The bells should be large and very double ; that is, well
filled with broad petals, appearing to the eye rather convex, than
flat or hollow ; they should occupy about one half the length
of the stem.
The colors should be clear and bright, whether plain red,
white, or blue, or variously intermixed, or diversified in the
eye ; the latter, it must be confessed, gives additional lustre
and elegance to this beautiful flower.
Strong bright colors are, in general, preferred to such as are
pale ; there are, however, many rose-colored, pure white, and
light blue Hyacinths, in high estimation. Hyacinths begin to
flower the last of April in this climate, and, if shaded by an
awning from hot suns, may be kept in perfection the greater
part of a month. They never require watering at any season ;
keep them free from weeds ; as the steins advance in height,
HYACINTHS. 57
they should be supported by having small sticks, or wires,
painted green, stuck into the ground back of the bulb, to which
they should be neatly tied ; otherwise, they are liable to fall
down by the weight of the bells, and, as the stem is very brittle,
it is sometimes broken off when exposed to storms.
The most suitable time to plant Hyacinths is in October and
November. The finer sorts will appear to the best advantage
in beds, while the more common varieties may be distributed
about the borders where most convenient. The dimensions of
the bed should be marked out, and the soil taken entirely away
to the depth of two feet ; the earth on the bottom should then
be dug and well pulverized, and the space above filled with the
following compost : —
" One third river or sea sand; one third fresh, sound earth ;
one fourth rotten cow dung, at least two years old ; and one
twelfth of earth, of decayed leaves, or decayed peat. The fresh,
sound earth of the compost should be of the best quality of
what is called virgin soil, or that obtained from pastures or the
roadside, well rotted; or, if that is not obtainable, the best garden
mould, free from noxious vermin of every description. These
ingredients should be well mixed and incorporated a considera-
ble time before wanted. About ten days before planting, the
bed should be filled up with the compost, even with the path,
or so as to be even when the roots are set. The surface of the
bed should be raked perfectly smooth before planting, and the
exact situation for every bulb marked on it as follows : —
RBWRBWRBW
WRBWRBWRB
RBWRBWRBW
WRBWRBWRB
RBWRBWRBW
WRBWRBWRB
The letters R, B, w, denote the color of the flower to be planted
there, viz., red, blue, or white ; under these heads, all Hya-
58 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
cinths may be comprehended, except a few yellow sorts, which
may be classed with the white." The bed should be four feet
wide ; the bulbs to be planted eight inches distant from each
other in the rows, and to be covered four inches deep. First
place about one inch of fine sand where each root is to be
placed, then press the bulb into the soil nearly its whole thick-
ness, and cover it completely with fine clean sand. Having
completed the planting, the whole may be covered with sound,
fresh, sandy earth, four inches deep. Before winter sets in.
Hyacinths should be covered a few inches deep with leaves,
straw, meadow hay, or any other light substances ; they are,
however, perfectly hardy, but the bloom is more perfect when
thus covered. In selecting bulbs, be careful to procure good
sound roots ; for an imperfect root is not worth planting, and
many there are, sold every year by thousands, at auction, which
are generally the refuse of the Dutch gardens. A good root is
perfectly hard, and bright, without specks of rot upon it, and
one that has not pushed a bud. Roots of the finest varieties
can be purchased for fifteen to twenty dollars per hundred, with
their names and colors ; and very fair sorts for less ; and
mixed sorts, with colors distinct, from six to ten dollars.
In about one month after the bloom is over, and the foliage
begins to turn yellow, the bulbs may be taken up, cutting off the
flower stems, but not the foliage, and, having prepared a slop-
ing bed of light earth, the bulbs may be laid upon it, so as not
to touch, with the foliage downwards, covering the roots and
fibres with earth. Here they remain till the bulbs are suffi-
ciently ripened, which will be in about one fortnight, when
they may be taken up, and, after they have been dried, cleaned
from the fibres, soil, &c., then wrapped up in papers, dry
sand, or dry sawdust, and kept in a dry place until wanted for
use. Or the roots may remain in the bed until the foliage has
completely dried down, and then taken up, dried and cleaned,
as before stated.
The Starry Hyacinth, or Scilla Peruviana, is a very pretty
bulbous-rooted plant, with dark blue starry flowers in May
IRIS. 59
and June, worthy a place in the border in large collections of
plants, — nine inches high.
The Grape Hyacinth, Muscari moschatum, is a pretty,
hardy, bulbous-rooted plant, with dark, light blue, or white
flowers, having a strong smell of musk. M. monstrosum, or
Feathered Hyacinth, is a most ornamental, hardy border flower;
the bulb is large, ovate and solid ; the leaves narrow, a foot
long, with obtuse points ; the flower-stalks rise nearly a foot and
a half high ; they are naked at the bottom for about seven or
eight inches, above which the panicles of flowers begin, and
terminate the stalks. The flowers stand upon the peduncles,
which are more than an inch long, each sustaining three, four,
or five flowers, whose petals are cut into slender filaments, like
hairs ; they are of a purplish-blue color, and, having neither
stamens nor germs, never produce seeds. M. botryoides is
another pretty species, with varieties of blue, white, and flesh-
colored flowers, all small, bulbous-rooted plants, obtained from
Holland as species of Hyacinths, with solid bulbs, producing
spikes of pretty, bell-shaped flowers a foot high, flowering in
June. All are hardy, and may be planted in any good garden
soil, about three inches deep, five or six roots in a group ; they
need not be taken up oftener than once in three years, and then
should not be kept long out of the ground.
IRIS.
Flower-de-luce.
" The Flower-de-luce, and the round sparks of dew,
That hung upon their azure leaves, did show
Like twinkling stars, that sparkle in the evening dew."
The Iris is a very extensive and beautiful family, claiming
the whole world as her country. Some of the species have
very large flowers, which, from their being very vivid, and
several uniting in the same blossom, are extremely showy.
60 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
Many of them are bulbous-rooted ; of these we shall treat in
this place, reserving the fibrous and most of the tuberous-
rooted to describe under the head of herbaceous perennials.
One of the most esteemed bulbous-rooted Iris, is the Persian,
on account of the beauty and fragrance of its flowers. It is
also very early, but not perfectly hardy. It is valued for forc-
ing, as a few of its flowers will scent a whole room ; their
colors are pale sky-blue, purple, yellow, and sometimes white.
The Spanish Iris, or I. zipkium, is a very pretty border flower,
of many varieties, all rich and elegant ; embracing the most
delicate shades of light and dark blue, brown, purple, yellow,
and white. Many of the varieties are various colored, striped
or spotted ; the bulbs are small, tooth-like, sending forth rush-
like foliage, with flowers in June, on stems about eighteen
inches high. These bulbs, as well as the other species named
here, should be planted about two and a half inches deep, in a
light and rich garden soil ; the proper time is in October and
November, and, excepting L susiana, need not be taken up
oftener than once in three years.
The English Iris, or /. xiphioides, is somewhat similar to the
last, but more robust in its growth ; the bulbs are larger, and
the stem two feet or more high, producing its flowers in June,
which are as various in color as the Spanish, and as desirable
for the border.
Iris chalcedonica, or L susiana, is one of the most beautiful
of the race ; it is not a bulbous root, but tuberous, imported
with the bulbous kinds from Holland, and planted at the same
time, and manner, except the soil should be of a more loamy
character. It has the largest flowers of any of the species, and
the most magnificent of them all. The colors of the flowers
are of various shades of the richest purplish brown, beautifully
mottled and spotted, so as to give it a very rich and unique
appearance. It produces its flowers in June, on stems a foot
high. It may be increased by parting the roots in autumn.
This splendid flower is reputed to be tender ; but I have suc-
ceeded in planting it in October and November, and even in
LILIUM.
61
December, with success, giving the same protection as to Tulips
or Hyacinths ; but if the roots are suffered to remain in the
ground after flowering, it will never bloom again, and most
assuredly perish. Our season is too long for it ; if left in the
ground through the summer, it commences growing in autumn,
forms its flower buds before winter sets in, and dies. Ob-
serving this, I have taken up the roots the first of August, and
kept them out of ground till the time of planting in autumn,
with perfect success. After drying, the roots may be kept in
dry sand or moss.
LILIUM.
The Lily.
" Have you seen but a bright Lily grow,
Before rude hands have touched it ? "
f( Queen of the field, in milk-white mantle drest,
The lovely Lily waved her curling crest."
All the species of this splendid genus, with which we are
acquainted, may be considered worthy of a place in every good
collection of plants. Many of the species are well known,
while a greater number are not often seen in our gardens.
The Lily is an interesting flower to the young florist as well
as the botanist, on account of the simplicity of its structure
and magnitude and distinct character of its different parts and
organs. The root of the Lily, or what is generally denomi-
nated the root, is a scaly bulb, the scales being laid over each
other in an imbricate form, inclosing the germ, or bud. The
bulb is not a root, strictly speaking, but a bud containing the
embryo of the future plant. The roots are thrown out from
the- bottom of these bulbs, or buds, and, unlike the fibres of the
Tulip, are perennial ; and on their strength depends, in a great
measure, the vigor of the future plant. Bulbs, long kept out
of ground, are very much weakened, and a number of years
will elapse before they recover strength to bloom in great per-
6
62 BKECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
fegtion. After the flowering of the Lily, in August, the foliage
of many species decays ; the bulbs then are in the most perfect
state for transplanting. If they are permitted to remain long
after this, and the foliage begins to start again, they will not
bloom so strong the next year. The Lily should not be moved
any oftener than is necessary. It is not like the Tulip and
many other bulbs, which are not injured, but rather improved,
by taking them up annually after flowering. The Lily will
do well in any well prepared border or bed. To have them in
perfection, the soil should be excavated eighteen inches deep,
and filled with a compost of peat, or swamp muck, undecayed
manure, or leaf mould, a foot deep ; the remaining six inches
may be peat and rich mould. The bulbs of strong-growing
Lilies may be planted from four to five inches deep ; and
weaker sorts from three to four inches. In the borders, three
bulbs, of the stronger-growing varieties, are enough for one
group, or five, of the weaker sorts. They have a pleasing
effect when planted in masses ; or they may be planted in
beds. Most of the species are quite hardy ; but they will all
be benefited, and bloom more strongly, provided they receive a
covering of rotten manure before winter sets in.
Lilium candidum. — The Old White Lily. — This species has
always been considered the emblem of wrhiteness, and is too
well known to require any description. A mass of White Lilies
is always beheld with admiration, and they perfume the air
with their delicious fragrance. The White Lily is, therefore,
indispensable, and should be found in every garden. It some-
times attains the height of three or four feet, and is in flower
about the first of July.
Lilium candidum flore pleno. — The Double White Lily. —
A variety of the double white ; it is curious, but not beautiful.
The inflorescence appears to be a continuation of the foliage,
which, as it terminates the stem, gradually assumes the char-
acter of petals, with the whiteness of the simple flower. It is
a monster, and for that reason may be fancied by some.
Lilium candidum flore variegata. — The Variegated White
LILIUM. 63
Lily. — This is another variety of the White Lily, and not
very desirable. The purity of the white is destroyed by the
dull purple stripes that mark the petals, and give it a dingy
appearance.
Lilium longiflorum. — The Long-flowered White Lily. —
This is a very beautiful and fragrant species, not quite so hardy
as the common White Lily, but stands the winter well, when
protected. The flowers, pure white, very long and large, pro-
duced in July.
Lilium martagon. — Turk's Cap Lily. — There are many
varieties of this species ; some with pure white, others with
purple, spotted, or variegated flowers. The petals are very
much reflexed, giving them the appearance of caps. In strong
soil, and the roots well established, the stems are sometimes
thrown up from three to five feet, producing twenty or thirty
flowers, flowering in July.
Lilium candidum folia variegata. — The Gold-striped Lily.
— There are two varieties of garden White Lily with striped
leaves, one having yellow, the other white striped foliage ; both
pretty in a collection.
Lilium umbellatum. — The Umbel-flowered Orange Lily. —
This is a strong-growing species, producing quite a num-
ber of large, upright orange flowers, with rough interior. In
contrast with the White Lily, it makes an imposing appearance.
It flowers about the first of July.
Lilium auranticum. — The Dwarf Orange Lily. — More
dwarfish than the last; about two feet high, with three or four
upright orange flowers on a stem ; in flower in July.
Lilium tigrinum, — Tiger-spotted Lily. — A very common,
strong-growing species ; but very showy, having fine, reflexed,
orange flowers, with black spots. It has the peculiarity of
producing small bulbs in the axil of the leaves. It grows from
four to six feet high, flowering in August, and is a suitable
plant for the shrubbery as well as the border. It is very easily
propagated, as all the axil bulbs, when planted in the ground,
soon produce flowering plants.
64 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
Lilium pomponicum. — Scarlet Pompone Lily. — This is a
beautiful species, with scarlet reflexed petals, flowering in June
and July. It is rather a shy flowerer, and has not nourished
so well with us as some other sorts.
Lilium chalcedonicum. — Scarlet Martagon Lily. — This is
another fine scarlet lily, with reflexed petals, growing three
or four feet high, and flowering in July.
L: pyrenaicum, with reflexed yellow flowers, with scarlet
anthers, we have in our collection ; very pretty, but producing
only from one to three flowers in each stem. Among other
beautiful varieties, or species, are L. catesbcei, a native of the
south, with orange-colored flowers, and dwarf in its habits.
L. CarolinaKum, from Carolina, somewhat like L. superbum ;
L. monadelphum, a species of Martagon, from Caucasus ; L.
croceum, pumilum, and many others, which may be obtained
from the Dutch florists. Lily bulbs, when transported from
Holland, are so much weakened, from being kept so long out of
ground, that more than one half of them perish ; and the few
that vegetate stand a number of years, frequently, before they
get strength to bloom.
Lilium Japonicum. — The Japan Lily. — This magnificent
species of Lily, and its varieties, have been introduced but a
few years, and, until lately, treated as green-house plants.
They are found to be as hardy as our common Lilies, and will,
therefore, prove a great acquisition to the garden. The variety
speciosum has a pink and white frosted ground, finely spotted
with deep crimson ; L. lancifolium album is pure white ;
each variety with reflexed petals. These Lilies emit an exquis-
ite odor. I have seen plants five and six feet high ; they were,
however, grown in pots in the green-house. These bulbs have
commanded extravagant prices ; consequently are found in but
few collections. As the price is now greatly reduced, we hope
soon to see them more common. The following account is
from an English paper; and, as the directions for their culture
will be applicable to us, we insert it, with some omissions : —
" Few plants of recent introduction are more handsome or
LILITJM. 65
attractive than the Japan Lilies. They produce a gorgeous
display, either in-doors or out ; and, as they are quite hardy,
they may be liberally planted in the open border, and thus con-
stitute one of our best autumnal flower-garden plants.
" Their propagation is simple and certain. The bulbs may
be separated, and each scale will eventually form a new bulb.
This separation should be effected when the flower stems are
withered. The scales should be stuck into pans of silver sand,
and placed in a cold frame or pit. After remaining one season
in this position, they should be planted in a prepared bed of
peat soil, and a little silver sand intermixed with it ; thus
treated, the bulbs will soon grow large enough to flower.
" The cultivation of them in pots is by no means difficult.
I shall detail the practice I have pursued with success for some
years. Immediately when the bulbs go to rest, in the autumn,
is the proper time to repot them. By no means destroy the
old roots, but carefully place them amongst the fresh soil. If
large examples, for particular display, are required, large pots
may be employed, and half a dozen flowering bulbs placed in
each pot. The soil I use is rough peat. The pots should be
well drained, and the crown of the bulb just covered with the
soil ; when potted, they should be placed in a cold pit or frame,
in order to prevent the soil from freezing, although frost will
not injure the bulb. Where room under glass is an object in
winter, they may be plunged in the open air in coal ashes, in
a manner similar to potted Hyacinths. I have at this time a
large number coming into flower, which have never been under
glass until within these few days ; they have sustained no
injury from exposure, and they present every appearance of
making a grand display. There is scarcely any plant which is
so much benefited by liquid manure as the Lily ; more espec-
ially before expanding its flowers. If used in a clear state,
and considerably diluted, this water alone may be applied for
at least a month before it comes into flovwr.
" If the object should be out-door cultivation entirely, I
should recommend them to be planted in beds ; their effect is
6*
66 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
exceedingly grand. Excavate the soil eighteen inches deep,
and fill in the bottom, a foot deep, with very coarse peat, inter-
mixed with one fifth of decayed manure or leaf mould. The
remaining six inches may be entirely peat. If the bulbs are
large enough to bloom, plant them twelve inches apart every
way ; arid if beds of each kind are brought into contact with
one another, the effect will be magnificent.
" The following are the kinds I cultivate : Lilium lancifolium
album, L. punctatum, and L. speciosum. The old Japonicum is
also well worth growing."
All our native Lilies are beautiful, and very much improved
by cultivation. While we are bringing together, from the ends
of the earth, the treasures of Flora, let not our own be neg-
lected. These may be taken from our fields and meadows,
when in bloom, by carefully taking them up with a ball of
earth, and in a few years will richly repay the trouble.
Lilium superbum. — Superb Lily. — One of the most mag-
nificent of our native plants ; not common in the vicinity of
Boston, but in many parts of the state and in New York in
abundance. Stem erect, straight, from three to six feet high,
bearing a large pyramid of orange-colored flowers, not unfre-
quently numbering, when cultivated, thirty or forty. The
flowers are much reflexed. They are found in many varieties,
with flowers from a yellow to an orange scarlet; in bloom in
July.
Lilium Canadense. — Nodding Meadow Lily. — This fine
Lily may be found embellishing our meadows in June, when
it rarely produces more than from one to five modest, nodding,
but showy, flowers, on stems one to three feet high. It is very
much improved by cultivation, and, when planted in rich ground,
has been known to grow five feet high, with a pyramid of at
least twenty of its pendulous flowers; color from yellow to
deep orange scarlet. The flowers are profusely spotted with
brown, on the inside,.^nd are but little reflexed.
Lilium Philadelphicvm. — The Common Red Lily of our
pastures and dry fields; equal, if not superior, in beauty, to
NARCISSUS. 67
the Canadense, but of a different habit. Its height rarely ex-
ceeds two feet, with one to three flowers, supported on a long
claw ; upright, of a dark vermilion color, richly spotted with
black. The flowers are bell-shaped ; in bloom in July.
The character of this species will no doubt be as much im-
proved by cultivation as Canadense. It will then form one of
the most showy ornaments of the garden, as the color of the
flower is rich and brilliant. If ten or fifteen flowers can be pro-
duced on one stem, the effect of a group of plants will be
surpassingly rich.
NARCISSUS.
Common Daffodil ; some species, Jonquilles.
" No gradual bloom is wanting ; from the bud,
First born of the spring, to summer's murky tribes :
Nor Hyacinths of purest virgin white,
Low bent, and blushing inward ; nor Jonquilles,
Of potent fragrance ; nor Narcissus fair,
As o'er the fabled fountain hanging still."
Named from the youth Narcissus, who, as the poets tell us,
was changed into this flower.
This family are mostly hardy, bulbous-rooted plants, many
of them too well known for description ; all suitable to orna-
ment the garden. They may be planted in October or Novem-
ber, in any good garden soil, about three inches deep, and need
not be taken up oftener than is necessary to separate the roots
when they become matted together, as they will in three or
four years.
The Two-flowered Narcissus, Pale Daffodil, or Primrose-
peerless, is of a pale-cream color, with a yellow cup in the
centre ; a very pretty species. Of the Common Daffodil, there
are many varieties, with a white flower and yellow cup ; a yel-
low flower and deep golden cup ; a double flower, with several
cups one within another ; the Great Yellow Incomparable,
double and single. The double variety is called Butter and
68
Eggs Narcissus, by the English, and by the Dutch, Orange
Phoenix, and is considered the handsomest of all the species.
It has large and small petals ; the large, lemon color, filled in
with small orange-colored ones. All these species flower the
last of April.
The Great Jonquille is yellow ; the scent of it so powerful as
to be hardly endured. This, with the Common Jonquille, are
altogether yellow; but the last-named has a cup deeper col-
ored than the petals. There is variety with double flowers.
There is a species called the Hoop-petticoat Narcissus, called
in France Medusa's Trumpet, of which the cup is two inches
long, very broad at the brim. Of this, there are a number of
varieties ; one, pale citron color ; another, darker and larger ;
both curious and pretty ; in flower first of May.
The White, or Poet's, Narcissus, has a snow-white flower,
with a pale-yellow cup in the centre, fringed on the border
with a circle of reddish purple. It is sweet-scented ; in flower
last of May. There is a variety with double flowers ; these
are the most desirable of the tribe.
The Polyanthus Narcissus is the most desirable of all ; but,
alas ! it is not so hardy. It requires to be planted five inches
deep, and well protected, to do well. The bulbs are quite
large. The flowers are produced the last of May, in trusses
of from six to twenty flowers. There are many varieties of
this flower. Some have entirely white flowers ; others, white,
with yellow, citron, or orange cups ; yellow with yellow ; and
entirely yellow or orange-colored flowers. There is a variety
with double flowers. This species of Narcissus succeeds well
when grown in pots ; or it is fine for flowering in glasses.
PJ30NIA.
Peony.
This interesting genus contains many magnificent flowering
plants, embracing at least one hundred varieties and species,
P^EONIA. 69
all of which are desirable for the border, and perfectly hardy,
standing one winter without protection. Most of the genus is
herbaceous. P. Moutan, and its varieties, are shrubby ; their
roots are fleshy, but not so distinctly tuberous as most of the
herbaceous species. All require nearly the same treatment.
The time for dividing the herbaceous sorts is in September or
October; the whole stool should be taken up. With a sharp
knife it may be divided into as many pieces as there are tubers
with buds ; it is necessary that a bud be preserved on each
tuber. At this season of the year the Peony is in a dormant
state ; the buds are just beginning to show themselves, and, if
delayed long after the first of October, the new fibres begin to
push, and the plant will be less likely to flower the coming
spring. The Peony roots should not be disturbed in the
spring, unless it be very early, as it does not succeed well
when transplanted at that season, without a ball of earth
adhering to the roots. The tubers should be planted in a
deep, rich, light, garden soil ; the crown, or bud, should be
placed three inches below the surface. The species of the
Peony have been so much changed by the florist, that it is dif-
ficult to draw the line of botanical distinction with any degree
of accuracy; and, for floral purposes, it is not necessary.
Pfsony officinalUs. — This is the old Double Crimson Peony,
familiar with every one as a household friend. When first
introduced into Antwerp, two hundred and fifty years ago, the
plant sold for twelve crowns, — a large sum for those days.
The varieties of this species are P. rosea with rose, P.
blanda with blush, P. rulra with red, P. carnesens with
flesh-colored, P. allicans with white, flowers. This class of
Peonies flower the last of May and the first of June.
P. tenufolia, or fennel-leaved, with fine leaves like fennel ;
in flower the first of May; it is of a deep crimson color, and,
when in bud, very beautiful. There is a double variety of this
sort.
P. hybrida is a hybrid between the last and P. decora, and
very pretty ; flower deep red.
70 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
P. paradoxa is a double variety, or species with purplish red
flowers ; blooms last of May.
P. decora, grevilli, and corallina, have large, single flowers,
purplish red and red ; in bloom the middle of May.
P. Siberica is one of the finest species; the flowers are sin-
gle, but in clusters, and very showy ; white, shaded with pink;
blooms 1st of June.
P. alba flora, P. Tartarica, and other Chinese and Tartarian
sorts, are the parents, probably, of a splendid race of late flow-
ering Peonies, denominated the Chinese. They are in bloom
about the middle of June. To enumerate and describe all
would occupy too much space. P. Whitleji has large double
white flowers. P. Humeii, double lilac-red. P. rosea has large
double rose-colored ; rather later than the two last. P. Reeve-
sii, semi-double purple. P. Pottsii, semi-double lilac-rose.
These are some of the more common sorts, but all beautiful.
Among those of the more recently introduced sorts, are P.
sulphurea, with pale yellow flowers. P. Duchess de Nemours,
with the broad exterior petals a blush white, while the centre
is filled up with numerous fine petals of a sulphur color ; quite
a novelty. P. prolif era-tricolor . P. triumphans. P. grandi-
flora carnea. P. festiva. P. plenissama variegata. Many
other new varieties might be named, all desirable for the bor-
der, or to be planted out in a quarter by themselves.
PcBony Moutan, or the Tree Peony, and its varieties, are
magnificent plants, with flowers of various shades of red, lilac,
light purple and white, measuring from four to eight inches in
diameter, all of easy culture ; very hardy, requiring but little
protection. The variety Banksice is one of the most common
kinds. I have had a plant of this with from seventy to eighty
flowers upon it at one time, presenting a splendid sight. The
flowers vary on the same bush : some of them are very double,
of a light pink color, fading, as they open, to a faint blush, or
white towards the edges, and at the base deepening to a pur-
plish red ; others are semi-double. Some flowers will be of a
deeper pink; variations take place also in the size of the
P^ONIA. 71
flowers, according to the strength of the plant. The shrub is
rarely seen more than four feet high, but it becomes very large
in circumference, bushing out from year to year, growing into
a very regular, hemispherical shape. It is in flower the last
of May, with all the other varieties or species.
P. moutan papaveracea, or Poppy-flowered Tree Peony, is
also a splendid plant, having large, single, white flowers, some-
times ten inches in diameter. The petals are flat, with a deep
purple spot at the base of each. These spots are rayed about
an inch and a half long, from the centre, forming a rich, bril-
liant star in the middle of the flower ; the bright yellow sta-
mens add to the beauty of the flower, forming a fine contrast
with the purple and pure white. It is a very desirable plant.
There is a variety of this, with semi-double or double flowers.
P. moutan papaveracea rosea is a variety with fine rose-
colored flowers, and one of the same color with double flowers ;
not very common.
A great number of new and expensive varieties of the
Tree Peony have been exhibited, within the last two years, at
the Horticultural Rooms. Some of these varieties do not
exceed in beauty those I have described, while others are
much superior. I will refer my readers to the reports of
the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, for descriptions of
their new sorts. For one or more of them, two hundred francs
were paid ; more, I dare say, than any one else would be wil-
ling to expend for one small plant.
The woody Peonies may be propagated by seeds, suckers,
layers, and by grafting. The common and most simple way is
by suckers. These may be often found growing from old wood,
when standing in the open border. The wood is very hard,
and will require a sharp, strong knife ; a fine saw is often useful
in the operation. October is the best time to divide the plants.
In the first place, take away the soil carefully from the roots
so as to see how the sucker can be taken off to the best advan-
tage, and not injure the old plant, and to give a portion of the
root to the young plant. When detached, the sucker may be
72 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
planted where it is destined to stand, in a rich, mellow loam.
When propagated by layers, the outer shoots are bent down
into the soil in the spring; but before they are fastened down
with a hook or pegs, a longitudinal split should be made in the
inner side of the bend ; this should be done with great care, as
the shoots are extremely liable to be broken off where they
bend. It takes two years for a layer of the Peony to be suffi-
ciently rooted to be detached. If seed is saved, it should be
planted as soon as ripe in autumn. I have not raised the
Peony from seed, but probably it would appear above ground
the next spring, and in the course of a few years produce
flowers, and perhaps a new variety. It is best to cover the
crowns of all varieties and species, in autumn, with coarse
stable manure ; the plants flower stronger for it.
With a collection of Peonies of the different sorts, the garden
will not be without some of the kinds being in bloom from the
first of May to the first of July.
RANUNCULUS.
Ranunculus JLsiaticus.
The Asiatic Ranunculus is one of the most splendid class
of florist's flowers in cultivation; but, unfortunately, our climate
is so uncongenial for its perfection, and requires so much skill
and care, that it has received but little attention in the vicinity
of Boston, except by a few individuals. To have this splendid
flower in all its beauty and strength, it should be kept growing
very moderately all winter; but our climate is so severe that
this is impossible, in the open air, without too much covering,
which would cause the plants to become drawn and weakened
in such a manner as to be ruined. In a green-house, this may
be done ; but how shall they be managed in the open air ?
Samuel Walker, Esq., President of the Massachusetts Horti-
cultural Society, has been the most successful of any other
RANUNCULUS. 73
person in this neighborhood, in blooming the Ranunculus in the
open air. I shall therefore give his directions, as published in
Hovey's Magazine, August 3, 1844.
" DIRECTIONS FOR THE CULTIVATION AND PLANTING OF THE
RANUNCULUS.
" The soil should be trenched eighteen or twenty inches,
and composed of good rich loam, to which add one sixth part
of very old, well rotted cow-manure, and the same quantity of
clay, broken into small pieces ; add to this a little sand, and
thoroughly mix the whole ; if the soil binds, add some sandy
peat ; make the bed on a level with the path or walks ; the
plants would do better if the bed was below, rather than above,
the level.
" Having prepared the soil, as above, some time during the
summer or autumn, take the earliest opportunity, in the spring
succeeding, to stir up the bed one spit, and take off one and a
half inch of the soil ; then place the plants in an upright posi-
tion on the surface, six inches apart each way, and replace the
soil carefully, which will cover the crown of the Ranunculus
about one and a half inch ; deeper planting would be inju-
rious. After the plants appear, keep them free from weeds,
and press the soil firmly around them after they get two
inches high. If the weather prove dry, water them freely
early in the morning, and shade them from the sun from nine
A. M. to three o'clock, P. M. As soon as the foliage becomes
yellow, take the roots up, and dry them thoroughly in the
shade, and keep them in a dry place.
" The Ranunculus loves a cool and moist location, but no
stagnant water should be permitted, nor should they be placed
under the shade or drippings of trees. The morning sun, free
circulation of air, and shade, as directed, will ensure success/'
The root of the Ranunculus is a cluster of small tubers, like
claws, united in the crown, which send up several bipartate
leaves, and an erect, branched stem, eight or twelve inches
74 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
high, with a terminating flower variously flowered. Unless
good varieties are obtained, and the roots sound and plump, it
is hest not to attempt their cultivation. The varieties are
endless, — of every color and combination of color that Flora
paints with.
A fine double Ranunculus should have a well-formed blossom,
at least two inches in diameter, hemispherical in shape, the
petals imbricated in regular shape, — the largest outside, and
gradually diminishing in size as they approach the centre of
the flower, which should be well filled with them. The petals
should be broad, with entire, well-rounded edges ; their color
should be dark, clear, rich or brilliant, either consisting of one
color throughout, or be otherwise variously diversified, on an
ash, white, sulphur, or fire-colored ground, or regularly striped,
spotted, or mottled in an elegant manner.
There is another species of Ranunculus, called Great Tur-
ban, or Great Turkey Ranunculus, producing large, double,
and very brilliant flowers. The roots are similar to the other
species, and the mode of cultivation the same. The varieties
are not so numerous ; the colors are crimson, yellow and
brown, yellow, white speckled, dark brown, &c.
TUBEROSA.
Polianthes Tuber osa.
" The Tuberose, Avith her silver light,
That in the gardens of Malay
Is called the mistress of the night ;
So like a bride, scented and bright,
She comes out when the sun 's away."
The Tuberose is a tender tuberous-rooted plant, with linear
leaves of whitish green, and stems four or five feet high, ter-
minating in a sparse spike of white flowers, of very powerful
fragrance, which display themselves in August. Iris properly
a green-house plant, but will grow and flower in warm situa-
TULIPIA. <O
tions in the open air, when planted about the middle of May,
but succeeds better when planted in pots, in March or April,
and brought forward in a hot-bed or green-house, and planted
in border the middle of June. It delights in a rich, sandy
loam. The top of the tuber should be near the surface of the
soil. The tubers are generally surrounded with numerous
offsets. It is recommended by some gardeners to break them
off; but I am inclined to believe that it is rather prejudicial to
the bloom than otherwise, and my practice is to let them
remain-: Strong-grown roots only will bloom. The double
variety is the most desirable, though both are equally fragrant.
The Tuberose is propagated from the offsets taken off from
the parent tuber, and planted in a light, rich soil. As soon as
the foliage is killed by the frost in autumn, the roots should
be taken up, dried, and packed away in dry sand or moss, till
wanted in the spring, but they must be kept secure from frost.
TULIPIA.
Garden Tulip.
"Then comes the Tulip race, where beauty plays
Her idle freaks ; from family diffused
To family, as flies the father dust, »
The varied colors run ; and while they break
On the charmed eye, th' exulting florist marks
With secret pride the wonders of his hand."
The Tulip is a flower of easy cultivation. The varieties
are endless. With the early and late varieties the garden can
be made very gay all the month of May.
These flowers became, in the middle of the seventeenth
century, the object of a trade for which there is no parallel,
and their price rose beyond the precious metals. Many
authors have given an account of this trade, some of whom
have misrepresented it. One author called it the Tulipomania ;
at which people laugh, because they believe that the beauty
76 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
and rarity of the flowers induced florists to give such extrava-
gant prices. But this Tulip trade was a mere gambling com-
merce, and the Tulips themselves were only nominally its
objects, many bargains being daily made, and the roots neither
given nor received. In Holland and Belgium the passion for
Tulips among the florists became an absolute madness. Many
thousand francs have often been given for a single root, and
the amount of this article of commerce, in 1637, rose to some
millions of francs. At the period of this effervescence, proper-
ties of considerable value were given for a single flower, and a
memorable monument of this outrageous folly is still exhibited
at Lille, in the Tulip Brewery, which, it is said, though valued
at 30,000 francs, ($6000,) was given by its proprietor for a
single root. At last the Tulip mania became so overpower-
ing that the government of Holland, convinced of the evil
effects which might result from it, were obliged to interfere,
and to pass laws of great severity against such transactions,
limiting the extent of the amount for any one bulb to 200
francs. To this day, a few of the choice and rare varieties
are priced at that sum in the Dutch catalogues. During this
Tulip fever, a merchant in Holland gave a herring to a sailor
who had brought him some goods. The sailor, seeing some
valuable Tulip roots laying about, which he considered of little
consequence, thinkjng them to be onions, took some of them
unperceived, and ate them with his herring. Through this
mistake, the sailor's breakfast cost the merchant a greater sum
than if he had treated the Prince of Orange.
Another laughable anecdote is told of an Englishman, who,
being in a Dutchman's garden, pulled a couple of Tulips, on
which he wished to make some botanical observations, and put
them in his pocket ; but he was apprehended as a thief, and
obliged to pay a considerable sum before he could obtain his
liberty. A bed of two hundred and fifty Tulips, of the finest
varieties, at the present time, cannot be obtained without a con-
siderable outlay ; and there are few, who have the means or
the fancy, who are willing to be at the expense.
TTJLIPIA. 77
Tulips are divided into two classes, early and late blowers ;
and these are, again, subdivided into other classes.
Early Tulips commence their blooming about the first of
May, in company with the Hyacinth, and some of the varieties
are very desirable. They are dwarf in their habits. The
many distinguished varieties of early Tulip are all produced
from the late blowers, which, having tall stems, and much finer
colors, engross nearly the whole attention of the cultivators of
Tulips. The modern mode of classing the late blowers, by the
Dutch florists, is as follows :
" Prime Baguets, from the French word baguette, a rod, or
wand. They are very tall, with handsome cups and white
bottoms, well broken with fine brown, and all from the same
breeder.
RigauVs Baguets. — This variety is supposed to have
received their distinctive appellation from some individual by
the name of Rigaut, who was eminent in this branch of flori-
culture. They are not quite so tall as the former, but have
strong stems, and very large, well formed cups, with white
bottoms, handsomely broken with rich brown color, and all
from the same breeder.
Incomparable Verports. — A particular kind of Bybloemens.
Cups very perfect, cherry-red and rose colo*r and white bottoms,
well broken with shining brown. Some of these are from 810
to $25 a root.
Bybloemens, or nest flowers, called by the French Flamands.
They have white ground, or nearly so, and are beautifully
broken with shades of purple and a variety of colors. They
are from different breeders.
Bizarres, from the French, odd, or irregular. Ground yel-
low; from different breeders, and broken with a variety of
colors.
Paroquets, or Parrot Tulips. — The edges of the petals are
fringed, colors brilliant crimson and yellow, with shades of
bright green ; but still they are held in no sort of esteem among
florists."
78 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
Double. — These are of various brilliant red, yellow, and
mixed colors, but, like many other double flowers, are deemed
monsters, and not appreciated by flower fanciers, although they
have an elegant appearance, from their upright, tall, and firm
stems, and crowns of large, peony-shaped flowers ; and, when
scattered with the Parrot among the small shrubs and other
plants, in the borders of avenues and walks, or planted out in
separate beds, they have a pleasing effect.
Breeders are such as have been procured from the seed, and
consist of one color, which is red, purple, violet, gray, brown,
black, yellow, or some other individual color, without any sort
of variation. These are cultivated in a rather poor and dry
soil, and become broken or variegated, in from one to twenty
years, and produce new varieties ; but so uncertain is the pros-
pect of a favorable result, that but few persons are willing to
make the experiment, by raising Tulips from seed, as probably
not one in a thousand, after so many years of patient cultiva-
tion, would exhibit anything remarkable or new. For this
reason, a new and superb Tulip commands a high price at the
present time in Europe.
When a Tulip has broken, the colors are unchangeable, when
properly managed, and are perpetuated from offsets from the
parent bulb. Tulips become deteriorated by improper culture,
by feeding them too highly with stimulating manures. This
causes the colors to run together, and the flower becomes what
the florist denominates "foul," and they can onlybe restored
to their former beauty by planting in a pure, loamy soil for a
few years.
A DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPERTIES OF A FINE LATE TULIP.
The stem should be ,strong, elastic, and erect, and about
thirty inches above the surface of the bed.
The flower should be large, arid composed of six petals.
These should form almost a perfect cup, with a round bottom,
rather wider at the top.
The three exterior petals sjhtould be somewhat larger than
TULIPIA. 79
the three interior ones, and broader at their base. All the
petals should have perfectly entire edges, free from notch or
serrature. The top of each should be broad and well rounded.
The ground color of the flower, at the bottom of the cup,
should be a clear white or yellow ; and the various rich colored
stripes, which are the principal ornament of a fine Tulip, should
be regular, bold, and distinct on the margin, and terminate in
fine broken points, elegantly feathered or penciled. These are
the principal points of excellence, in the eyes of a florist ; yet
with amateurs there is some difference of opinion.
The colors which are generally held in greatest estimation,
in variegated striped sorts, are black, golden-yellow, purple,
violet, rose, and vermilion, each of which being varied in dif-
ferent ways ; but such as are striped with three different colors,
in a distinct and unmixed manner, with strong regular streaks,
and but little or no tinge of the breeder, are considered the
most perfect,
The cultivation of the Tulip is mystified by the elaborate
directions generally given for its cultivation. I have succeeded,
for many years, in producing very fine flowers by a simple
course of cultivation; the varieties in* my possession being
probably as fine as can be obtained from any collection in
Europe, having been imported, a few years since, at great
expense.
The finer sorts of Tulips should always be planted in beds,
where there is a considerable quantity of bulbs ; but they look
very well when disposed in small groups, in the borders, par-
ticularly the more common sorts.
The proper season for planting is in October. If kept out
longer, they are somewhat weakened, and will not flower so
finely.
A bed for two hundred and fifty Tulips, should be thirty-six
feet long by four wide. The bulbs to be planted in rows, seven
inches apart, and seven inches distant from each other. The
ground being marked out, the soil should be taken out to the
depth of twenty inches. The rich surface mould should be first
80 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
taken off and placed by itself, while the subsoil must be taken
off out of the way. I have found the best soil for Tulips to be
that made of decayed turfs, from an old pasture, well incorpo-
rated with old, thoroughly-decomposed cow-manure, with a little
sand, if the soil be adhesive ; for the Tulip and most bulbs delight
in a loose soil. The exact quantity of these three materials is
laid down by some florist as one third of each, but I have not
been so nice. My mould is light enough without much sand,
and the quantity of manure is very small, not more than one
eighth. When highly manured, the flowers will make a ranker
growth, but it is injurious to the flower. The mould or soil
should be prepared beforehand, and frequently turned to receive
the influence of the air and sun. When the bed has been dug-
out as directed, the cavity is to be filled with this compost, a
week or ten days before planting. My practice is to fill it
even with the surface of the ground. This, when settled,
will be the right depth to plant the bulbs, if planted on the
surface. The planting should be done in a pleasant day. It
should not be done directly after a heavy rain, for then the soil
will be heavy. That the roots may be planted exact, I prepare
a board, six and a half inches wide, the length the width of the
bed. On the edges of the board I mark the distances the
bulbs are to be planted from each other, by sawing in a notch ;
thus, three inches from the end, for the first, and from that
seven inches, until the whole number, seven, are made, which
will leave three inches on the othej,' side. Stretch a line on
one side of the bed, and, by keeping one end of the board up to
it, the planting may be made without any trouble, and every
root in its right place, provided the board is placed square
across the bed at each removal. Having placed the board, let
some fine sand be placed where the bulbs are to be set. The
roots should then be gently pressed into the earth, close up to the
notch, but not so deep as to cover them, the large bulbs a little
deeper than the smaller ones, and remove the board; then
completely envelop each root with a little cone of sand, or very
sandy earth, and so proceed until all the bulbs are set. Now,
TULIPIA. 81
with a spade, gradually cover the bulbs with the surface soil,
until the bed has been raised four inches above the level of the
walk. This will cover the bulbs about three and a half inches,
the proper depth. Let it be carefully smoothed off, but not
with any instrument that will interfere or put out of place any
of the roots which have been set. All the care necessary, after
this, is to throw some light protection over the beds before
winter sets in, to be removed by the first of April. After-
wards, keep the bed free from weeds. To have the flowers in
the greatest protection, screen them from the sun, in mid-day,
by an awning. A powerful sun soon destroys the beauty of a
Tulip bed, by causing the colors to run together. A bed of late
Tulips is generally in its highest perfection about the 20th of
May, and may be kept in fine condition a fortnight longer, by
taking the trouble to erect an awning over them. I take up
my Tulips about the 20th of June, and dry them under cover,
in an airy place, and, when dry, take off the offsets and plant
them out, while the flowering roots are each wrapped in a
piece of waste paper, and put away, in a box or drawer, in a dry
place, until wanted to plant. One hundred different varieties,
with their names and colors, reputed to be the very best, may
be obtained from Holland, at the cost of about $25 ; but I have
found, by experience, that some of the rarer and most expensive
sorts are not included. Very good border Tulips, including fine
double sorts, early and late, single, parrots, &c., may be
obtained from 50 cents to $1 per dozen, and some of the com-
mon sorts at much less price.
Tulips sometimes succeed very well, in any good garden
soil, without extra preparation. The Due Van Tholl Tulips,
single and double, are some of the most esteemed early sorts,
the single being the most suitable, and about the only one that
succeeds well in pots and for forcing.
The sorts that are planted in the borders may be set in
groups of from three to five bulbs. These need not be taken
up oftener than once in three years. Separate the offsets, as
they become so crowded that they will not flower well, and
82 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
besides, as the new bulb is formed every year, below the old
one, the roots will penetrate so deep, that, if permitted to remain
many years, they become so weakened they will not flower
at all.
DIRECTIONS FOR THE FLOWERING OF DUTCH BULBS IN POTS OR
GLASSES.
"Hyacinths may be planted in pots from the latter end of
October until December. The soil used should consist of about
one third of white or river sand, and the remaining two thirds
equal proportions of vegetable mould and loam. The pots
should measure about six inches across the top. When the
bulbs are planted, the pots are to be lightly filled with earth ;
then the bulb may be placed in the centre, and pressed into the
earth, so that it may be about Half covered. After this, the
earth should be made solid all around the sides of the pot, to
fasten the root. When the bulbs are thus potted, they should
be removed into a cool place, in order that they may become
well rooted before the tops shoot up. Much light is not neces-
sary at this period ; indeed, this deprivation of light causes
them to root more quickly than they would otherwise do. For
the first fortnight or three weeks after potting, they may be
placed upon a shelf in a shed or a cellar, or in any other con-
venient place, providing it be cool. Little water is also requi-
site ; once watering, immediately after the roots are planted,
being sufficient, if the situation is tolerably damp where the
pots are placed.
" If the stock of bulbous roots, such as Hyacinths, Narcissus',
early Tulips, &c., be large enough to occupy a small frame, the
pots may be put within it after planting, and they may be cov-
ered a few inches deep with rotten tan, or any other light mate-
rial. The pots will soon become well filled with roots, and the
shoots produced by bulbs previously well rooted will be stronger,
and the flowers larger, than "if they had been put in a warm and
light situation. When they are rooted, a few may be intro-
duced occasionally into the room window, or on the mantel-
TULIPIA. 83
piece, if there be sufficient light. Light is quite essential when
the tops begin to grow. By this means a succession of flowers
may be had during the greater part of the spring.
" If it is wished to bloom Hyacinths in water-glasses, the
glasses should be filled up with water, but not so high as to
come in contact with the bulb. Too much moisture before the
roots protrude might cause the bulb to decay. The glasses
may be put in a light, but cool situation, until the roots are
grown half the length of the glass, at least. The longer the
roots are before being forced into flower," the finer the flowers
will be ; and when rooted they may be kept warm or cool, as
flowers are required in succession. The flowers will not put
forth, even when the glasses are filled with roots, if they are
kept in a cold place. The water should be changed about twice
every week, and rain or river water is better than spring water.
Although the practice of growing bulbous roots in water is com-
mon, it is by no means preferable to growing them in earth.
There are many failures when bulbs are grown in water,
which are chiefly caused from their being more liable to rot
before they begin to emit roots, than when grown in soil. Keep-
ing the bulbs quite clear of the water is a partial, but only a par-
tial, preventive. Another cause is, that when the roots have
attained some length, they frequently decay, and the loss of the
flowers is the consequence. Should success attend the grow-
ing and blooming of the greater part of those placed in water-
glasses, the bulbs will be good for nothing afterwards ; but those
grown in pots might be planted the year following in the garden,
and they would make pretty border flowers for several years.
" Similar treatment to that now described is required for the
large-rooted Narcissus, whether in pots or glasses.
" To force early Tulips in pots, they should be placed about,
three or four in each pot, just within the earth, which may be
of the same sort, and the management the same as recom-
mended for Hyacinths and Narcissuses.
" Crocuses will force well. They should be planted near
together, say from ten to twenty in a pot, according to its size.
84
BRECK S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
Let them root naturally after planting1, before they are forced
into flower. They require similar treatment to the preceding.
"In order that bulbous roots, which have been forced, shall not
be quite exhausted, they maybe planted in the garden, with the
ball of earth entire, as soon as the flowering is over, if the
weather is favorable. They will thus mature their roots and
leaves, and be strengthened sufficiently to bloom again the fol-
lowing season. If bulbs are neglected when their flowering
season is over, they will not recover such neglect for a consid-
erable time ; but if carefully placed in the garden till their leaves
become yellow, when the root will be matured, they may then
be taken up and kept in a dry, cool place until they are wanted
the following season for planting."
DESCRIPTIVE LIST OF PERENNIAL AND BIENNIAL, HERBA-
CEOUS, BORDER, AND OTHER FLOWERS.
" Not useless are flowers ; though made for pleasure,
Blooming o'er fields and wave by day and night. ;
From every source your sanction bids me treasure
Harmless delight."
ACHILLEA.
Milfoil.
A. ptarmica. — Sneezewort. — This is a desirable border
flower, particularly the double variety, as it continues in bloom
most of the season, throwing up a succession of its double white
flowers in corymbs, on stems about one foot high. The foliage
is dark shining green. It is very hardy, and easy to cultivate
in almost any common soil.
A. aurea, or golden- flowered, has rich yellow flowers, but
not so hardy as the last.
We have a native species, A. millefolium, known by the
common name of Yarrow ; of this I found a variety with pink
flowers, which is now in my possession, and is desirable in a
collection. ^
ACONITUM.
Monkshood — Wolfsbane.
The common Monkshood is a well known inhabitant of the
garden. There are many species, all handsome perennial bor-
der flowers. They may be increased by parting the roots, which
are of a tuberous character, every piece of which will grow.
This should be done soon after they have done flowering ; and
the stalks should be cut down at the same time. They like
shade and moisture. Most of them have blue flowers, but
8
86 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
there are also white and yellow. The flowers grow in spikes,
which, in some species, are two or three feet long. The family
of Aconites have a bad reputation. The ancients, who were
not acquainted with mineral poisons, regarded this plant as the
most violent of all. The virulence of A. napellus (common
Morikshood) should be known to all. The root is the most
powerful part of the plant. An instance is on record, of five
persons, at Antwerp, who ate of the root by mistake, and all
died. Instances have occurred, of death by eating the young
shoots in a salad instead of celery. This plant, when used with
skill and caution, is in some cases a valuable medicine. This
species flowers in July and August.
A. variegatum is a beautiful variety, throwing up branching
spikes of flowers in July and August, three and four feet high ;
the flowers are light blue, edged with white.
A. japonicum has dark blue flowers, on spikes four and five
feet high, during the month of July and August.
A. rostratum is a beautiful species, with purple flowers, three
or four feet high — in July and August.
ACTJEA.
This is an indigenous perennial plant, suitable for the shrub-
bery, found in the woods. There are two species or varieties :
— A. rubra, with shining red berries, and A. alba, with milk-
white berries, tipped with red. Both kinds have white flowers,
in spikes, in May. The berries, as well as the flowers, are
ornamental. They require a peaty soil, and flourish best in
the shade ; about two or three feet high.
AGROSTEMMA.
.Rose Campion — Mullen Pink.
A common, showy border flower ; not a perfect perennial, but
easily kept by dividing the roots. It is also propagated from
ADONIS ALYSSUM ALTHAEA. 87
seeds, which flower the second year. The common variety has
deep red flowers, and another variety with white, or white with
a pink centre. It flowers in June and July ; about one and
a half feet high.
ADONIS.
Adonis vernalis is a handsome perennial border plant, one
foot high, producing yellow flowers in May or June. It is a
native of the South of Europe. It succeeds in any common
garden soil, if not too heavy.
ALYSSUM.
Alyssum saxatile, — Rock or Golden Alyssum, — is a desirable
vernal flower, of dwarf habit, proper for rock-work, or to be
planted in masses ; the flowers are of a brilliant golden yellow,
completely covering the plant, which is not more than eight
or ten inches high. It is a suitable companion for the Phlox
stolonifera, with its red flowers, P. subulata, with pink or
white flowers ; all which appear together the first of May.
Raised by seeds or by slipping the roots.
ALTHAEA.
"And from the nectaries of Hollyhocks,
The humblebee, e'en till he faints, will sip."
Alfhfsa rosea. — Chinese Hollyhock. — A great improvement
has been made in this old-fashioned, ordinary flower, within a
few years, that has brought it before the public under a new
phase ; and it now bids fair to become as popular as many
other flowers have been when taken in hand by the florist.
The following is an extract from an English paper : —
"Hollyhocks. — If I were not afraid of advancing a horticultu-
88 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS. .
ral heresy, I should say that many ameteurs prefer Hollyhocks
to Dahlias. The Hollyhocks of Belgium and Germany had a
great celebrity long before they appeared among us. The col-
lections of the Prince of Salm Dyck, and of M. Van Houtte, of
Ghent, have been much admired. In other places varieties
have been obtained with leaves more or less lobed, more or less
entire, more or less palmate, all with flowers large, full, or col-
ored differently from those of other plants, being sometimes of
a more or less dark mahogany color, at others of a delicate tint,
and varying from the purest white to the darkest glossy black.
Some progress has also been made in the cultivation of those
plants by themselves. Since 1830, M. Pelissier, jun., a gen-
tleman of Prado, has cultivated Hollyhocks, and from the seeds
of a pink variety has succeeded in obtaining plants with flowers
of a delicate rose color, arid which, in consequence of the ex-
treme delicacy of their tints, arid regularity of form, may serve
both to encourage perseverance and as a good type for seed.
In the following year, from the seeds of pink flowers, he ob-
tained a beautiful, brilliant, clear, sulphur-colored specimen,
perfect in every respect. It is from the seeds of those two
plants that he has obtained all the other beautiful and remark-
able varieties which he now possesses, after a lapse often years
from his first attempts. As a general rule, M. Pelissier prefers
flowers with six exterior petals, with entire edges, well open,
well set out, of a middling size, of a pure, clear, brilliant color,
and forming a perfect Anemone. As the flowers expand, M.
Pelissier removes whatever is not conformable to the type he
has chosen, or is not of a marked color, and like a perfect
Anemone. It is by doing this every year that he has obtained
twenty remarkable varieties, the names and characteristics of
which have been kindly furnished by him, and are given below.
1. Souvenir de Mahnaison , delicate rose, flower very full; per-
fection. 2. Geant de Bataittes, red, flower very full. 3. Ves-
tale, fine pure white, flower very full. 4. Anais, rose, flower
very full ; perfection. 5. Ckromatetta, dark yellow, flower
very full. 6. Jeune Euphemie, clear red, flower beautiful,
ALTH.EA. 89
full; perfection. 7. Reine Victoria, cinnamon-colored, shaded,
flower very full. 8. Grand Peki?ig, nankeen-colored, flower
very full. 9. Amaranth, dark red, flower very full. 10. Isa-
belle, dark red, flower very full. 11. Grand Colbert, dark rose,
streaked, flower full, very perfect. 12. Marie Gabrielle, fleshy
white, flower full ; beautiful. 13. Matilde, clear cherry,
flower very full. 14. Solfaterre, very clear yellow, flower very
full. 15. Boule de Neige, beautiful white, flower well rounded,
full. 16. Ophirie, yellow, with a tint of pink, flower very
full. 17. Arlequin, clear, approaching to dark violet, spotted
with white. 18. Desprez, white, middle yellow. 19. Proser-
pine, very dark red, flower very full. 20. Pluton, black,
flower very full."
The writer has been very successful in producing many
beautiful varieties from seed from Germany, for which he
obtained the Horticultural Society's premiums two successive
years.
The seed should be sown in June or July. The plants
should be pricked out in groups where they are to stand in
August. They will require but little protection. As the
flower-stems begin to advance, they should be well staked. As
soon as the flowers begin to expand, all inferior sorts should be
pulled up. From good seed many fine double varieties may
be expected in one hundred plants.
When "a good variety has been obtained, it may be perpetu-
ated by dividing the root every year, or by cuttings of the
young shoots.
The Hollyhock flowers the second and third years after
sowing, and then dies, unless its roots have been divided.
There is no flower which makes a greater show, when planted
in masses, than the different, varieties in all their various colors,
tints, and shades. It is in flower most of the months of July
and August.
8*
90 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
ANEMONE.
Pasque Flower. — Musk-scented Geranium.
Anemone pulsatilla is an old-fashioned English perennial
border flower, easily cultivated, and described by Gerarde, the
herbalist, in his book written two hundred and fifty years ago,
thus : — "It hath many small leaves, finely cut or jagged, like
those of carrots, among which rise up naked stalkes roughf,
hairie, whereupon doe grow beautiful floures, bell-fashion, of a
bright delaied purple color; in the bottom whereof groweth a
tuft of yellow thrumbs, and in the middle of the thrumbs it
thrusteth forth a small purple pointell. When the whole flower
is passed, there succeedeth an head or knob, compact of many
gray hairy lockes, and in the solid part of the knob lieth the
seed, flat and hairy, — every seed having his own small haire
hanging at it. The root is thicke and knobby, of a finger long,
running right down, and therefore not unlike those of the
Anemone, which it doth in all its other parts very notably
resemble, and whereof no doubt this is a kind."
A. nemerosa, or Wood Anemone, is one of our earliest
flowers in spring, appearing in April, and continuing through
May ; found in company with violets arid other vernal flowers,
in wood and pastures, and beside walls and fences. It.grows in
spreading clusters, sending up its stem, bearing three leaves,
which is crowned with one single white flower, the external
part of which is of a reddish purple.
There is another indigenous species of the Anemone, a
perennial also, called the rue-leaved or A. thalictroides, which
is distinguished from the last by its number of flowers and
more finely-divided leaves. Flowers white, in April and May.
These two species require some care in transplanting, as the
roots are delicate and straggling. It requires shade and
moisture.
ANSONIA ANTIRRHINUM. 91
AMSONIA.
Aimonia latifolia. — Broad-leaved Amsonia. — Amsonia
saUcifolia. — Willow-leaved Amsonia. — Natives of our south-
ern states. These two species resemble each other some-
what, except one has long, broad, peach-shaped leaves, and the
other willow-shaped ; both are hardy perennials, with pretty
blue flowers, two feet high, in June ; easily cultivated in almost
any soil.
ANTIRRHINUM.
Snap-Dragon.
This is a curious, as well as an ornamental, genus of plants,
mostly perennials or biennials. The word Antirrhinum is
derived from words in Greek which express "similar to a
nose." The flower bears a perfect resemblance to the snout or
nose of some animal ; by applying the thumb and finger to the
side of the corolla, it opens and shuts, as with a spring. It is
described by Gerarde in his Herbal, thus : " This purple Snap-
Dragon hath great and brittle stalks, which divideth itself into
many fragile branches, whereupon do grow long leaves, sharp-
pointed, very greene, like unto those of wild flax, but much
greater, set by couples and set one opposite against another.
The flowers grow at the top of the stalkes, of a purple color,
fashioned like a frog's mouth, or rather a dragon's mouth, from
whence the women have taken the name Snap-Dragon. The
seed is black, contained in round husks, fashioned like a calf's
snout, — whereupon some have called it calf's snout, — or in
mine opinion it is more like unto the bones of a sheep's head
that hath been long in the water, or the flesh consumed clean
away."
Since Gerarde's day, the Snap-Dragon has sported into many
varieties, not only purple but rosy, crimson, yellow, red and
yellow, red and white, white striped, mot tied, Clipped, &c. It
92 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
is not a perfect perennial, as it is apt to die out every few
years. The varieties may be propagated from cuttings or
divisions of the root. It is raised abundantly from seed, flower-
ing the first year in autumn ; but not so strong as the second
year. Many beautiful varieties are in cultivation. It flour-
ishes best in a dry, loamy soil, and is in flower in June or
July. There is a beautiful Antirrhinum which grows pro-
fusely by the road-side ; the flowers yellow and orange : A. li-
naria, or Yellow Toad Flax. This would be desirable for the
garden, were it not for its weedy propensity of running about
the ground where it is not wanted.
AQUILEGIA.
Columbine.
Aquilegia, from aquila, an eagle. The inverted spurs of the
flower have been likened to the talons of a bird of prey.
A. vulgaris, and its varieties, are too well known to require
description. Some of them are very beautiful, and all interest-
ing when planted in beds or masses ; they are of every shade
of blue, purple, white, reddish-brown, striped or variegated,
with single, semi-double, and full-double flowers. In bloom in
May and June ; two feet high. Propagated from seed, or the
choice varieties by divisions of the roots.
A. Canadense is one of the finest species ; indigenous ; com-
mon in rocky situations ; flowering early in May. It has pen-
dulous scarlet flowers. I have seen a variety with pure white
flowers, and undertook to transfer it to my garden, but the root
was wedged into a seam in a rock, arid was broken off and
ruined in the attempt. Mr. Carter, formerly of the Botanic
Garden, had a straw-colored variety. This elegant vernal
flower is much improved when cultivated ; the stool increasing
in magnitude, throwing up many more stems, and the flowers
larger. If a little more attention could be given to its cultiva-
ARMERIA ASTER. 93
tion from seed from flowers cross-impregnated from the garden
species, no doubt some fine varieties would be obtained.
A. glandulosa is a beautiful and newly-introduced species,
of great beauty. The plant is more dwarfish in its habits than
the common Columbine ; the leaves more finely divided. It is
about one foot high, producing in June numerous large, rich,
sky-blue flowers ; the internal part and margin of the corolla
pure white. It is one of the most desirable of the family;
raised from seeds or divisions of the root. Columbine should
be divided soon after flowering, and not in the spring. All are
at home in any common garden soil.
ARMERIA.
Thrift.
This genus contains a number of ornamental plants, gen-
erally well adapted for rock-work.
Armeria vulgaris is the Common Thrift of the garden, and,
next to Box, desirable for edgings. It is rapidly multiplied by
divisions of the root. Its pink flowers are produced in June
or July, on stems six inches high, in little heads or clusters.
ASTER.
Star -Flower.
This large genus of plants embraces more than ninety
species, all inhabitants of the United States; some of them
very handsome ; giving life and beauty to our fields and woods,
during the autumnal months, by the profusion of the various
shades of their blue, purple, or white flowers. Most of the
family are perennials, easily transplanted when in flower, pro-
vided they are cut down to the ground, and may be planted
among the shrubbery or borders, and will add grace and beauty
94 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
to the garden. One of the finest, A. Nova Anglce, or New
England, is a strong-growing plant, three or four feet high,
with large purple flowers.
A. multiflora is a very fine plant, producing its snow-white
flowers in beautiful wreaths, having small linear leaves, of a deep
glossy green ; two feet high. If we had never seen this so
common, and if it had been introduced from some foreign land,
it would no doubt produce quite a sensation among florists.
A. puniceus has brilliant light-blue flowers ; grows three or
four feet high.
A. cyanus has purplish-blue flowers ; three feet high.
A. diffusus is a beautiful species, producing a profusion of
small white flowers with brownish disk; two to three feet high.
A. puniceus, A. cordifolia, A. cory?nbosum, A. lesvis, A.
diversifolia, and many others, would be valuable acquisitions
to the large flower-garden, and all improved by transplanting.
They would open a wide field for improvement by hybridizing.
ASCLEPIAS.
Swallow- Wort.
This is a numerous genus of plants, of which there are
found in the United States about twenty species. Many of
them are cultivated in England as ornamental plants, and, in
an extensive collection, they should be brought into the flower-
garden here ; arid a few of them in any collection, however
small.-
The following are some of the species which may be found
in New England. Nos. 1, 4, 5, 6, 8, and 13, are some of the
most ornamental, and may be transplanted to gardens soon
after flowering. They are all perennials.
" 1. Venosa — has leaves elegantly variegated with white and
crimson veins, and the stems terminate in an umbel of pale,
flesh-colored flowers.
ASCLEPUS. 95
" 2. Pulckra. —Water-Silk-Weed,— lias nearly erect stems,
four or five feet high ; umbels very small ; flowers crimson-
purple. Grows on low, wet land, by the side of ponds.
" 3. Variegata. — Variegated. — Leaves rough, umbels com-
pact and come out from the side of the stalk ; flowers of an
herbaceous odor.
"4. Nivea. — White, or Almond-leaved. — Stalks two feet
high, and of a dark green. Leaves deep green above, and pale
beneath, smooth and rather stiff. Flowers green, with white
nectaries.
" 5. Incarnata, — Flesh-colored, — has several upright stalks
about two feet high, at the top of which are produced close
umbels of purple flowers ; blooms in August.
" 6. Decumbens. — The stalks are declining, hairy, a foot
and a half high; leaves narrow; umbels compact, at the
extremity of the branches ; flowers a bright orange color.
"7. Verticillata. — Stalks slender, upright; umbels at the
extremity of the stems ; leaves in whorls of four, five, and six
together ; flowers small and of a greenish-white color. Found
in Roxbury and Dedharn ; blooms in July.
" 8. Tuberosa. — Butterfly-weed. — Root large, fleshy, branch-
ing and somewhat fusiform, but it is only by comparison with
other species that it can be called tuberous ; stems numerous,
growing in bunches from the root, hairy and dusky red;
flowers numerous, erect, and of a beautiful bright orange color ;
grows in Woburn and Newton ; blooms in August.
" 9. Obtusifolia. — Blunt-leaved. — Stems erect, supporting a
terminal umbel, at a distance from the leaves, which are oppo-
site, ovate, heart-shaped at the base ; flowers large, of a green-
ish-white, tinged with red; it is found in Cambridge and
Mount Auburn ; blooms in July.
" 10. Phytoloccoides. — Poke-leaved. — A tall, large-flowering
species, of a delicate appearance ; stem erect, four or five feet
high ; leaves large ; umbels nodding, flowers large, petals
green, nectaries white or flesh-colored ; grows in low grounds ;
blooms in June.
96 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
"11. Purpurescens. — Dark-flowered. — Stem erect ; flowers
of a dark crimson purple ; grows in Cambridge and Newton,
but is rare.
" 12. Quadrifolia. — Four-leaved. — A delicate species,
growing in dry woods ; stem about a foot high ; flowers flesh-
colored ; is found in Roxbury and Brookline, and blooms in
June.
" 13. Amonea. — Oval-leaved. — Stalks from a foot and a
half to three feet high ; at each point are two large leaves,
which are thickish, stiff, smooth, with purple nerves ; umbels
rise from the stalk and some of the upper axils ; flowers
of a bright red color.
"14. Syriaca. — Milk-weed, or Silk-weed. — This species
abounds all over our country, and, for the many useful purposes
to which it may be applied, is deserving of attention.
The flowers of the Asclepias are produced in umbels ; all
are very attractive to the butterfly family and other beautiful
insects, and for this reason a few species should be introduced
into the garden.
BAPTISIA.
Bapf.isia, from bapto, to dye : in allusion to the econom-
ical properties of some species. A blue dye is extracted from
the leaves.
Baptisia australis was formerly Sophora australis, and is
commonly called by that name. The genus Sophora has been
much altered, and now consists chiefly of fine trees. It con-
tains, however, two species of ornamental herbaceous plants.
•S. flavescens, with yellow flowers, a native of Siberia, and S.
alepechroides, with blue flowers, from the Levant ; the former
two, the last four, feet high.
Baptisia australis is considered a handsome border flower
of the easiest culture, exceedingly hardy and indigenous to
some parts of North America. It produces its blue flowers in
terminal spiked racemes in June. Leaves ternate stalked ;
BELLIS — CAMPANULA. 97
leaflet cuneate lanceolate ; stipules longer than the stalk, lan-
ceolate. A variety has white flowers; another with brown
and yellow.
BELLIS.
Common Daisy.
Bellis perennis. — A well-known perennial, in bloom from
March to August ; three inches high. There are several
varieties, as the red, white, blush, red-quilled, white-quilled,
hen and chicken, &c.
This beautiful little flower will not stand our winters with-
out protection. They are best kept in a frame, where they
can be preserved from the extreme cold weather, and exposed
to the sun and air.
Daisies may be propagated abundantly, by dividing the
roots ; but these should be planted in shady borders, where
they will not be exposed to the too powerful influence of our
summer sun, which would absolutely destroy them, if left to its
mercy.
CAMPANULA.
Bell-Flower.
This is a large family of plants, mostly handsome, hardy,
perennial ; some of them very beautiful, and about all suitable
for ornamenting the borders. We have one indigenous species,
which is very pretty, and worthy a place in the border ; found
abundantly on the banks of Merrimack river, at and above
Lowell. It is very much like C. rotundifolia, of England.
Having cultivated them side by side, we can see but a shade's
difference. Mr. Eaton calls our species also rotundifolia.
Each species has nearly round, or heart kidney crenate radical
leaves, from which the specific name is given, and linear entire
9
98 BEECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
cauline ones, with drooping, solitary, fine blue flowers ; those
of the English species being rather the largest, with the cau-
line leaves a little broader. The common name, with us, is
Flax bell-flower, or Hair bell. It is in flower in July and Au-
gust; one foot high.
Campanula medium. — Canterbury Bells. — This species,
with its varieties, may be considered one of our oldest orna-
mental plants, having for a long time been cultivated in our
gardens ; it is, nevertheless, a showy plant, and will doubtless
always be retained as a prominent ornament of the border.
The varieties are rose, blue, and white, double and single.
The double varieties, however, are much inferior to the single
ones, and will be cultivated only for their singularity. Being
biennials, it will be necessary to sow the seeds every year.
The young plants must be transplanted to the place in which
they are to flower, in August or September, for if deferred until
spring the bloom will be greatly weakened ; the same holds
good with all biennials, and most seedling perennials.
Campanula persicafolia. — Peach-leaved Campanula. — This
is one of the finest species, containing a number of beautiful
varieties, with large, showy flowers, more bowl-shaped than
the last. The varieties are single and double blue, single and
double white, maxima or large peach-leaved, and grandis or
large flowering. All of them are perfectly hardy, with hand-
some foliage, which makes them valuable as border flowers.
Stems angular ; leaves stiff; obsoletely crenate serrate ; radical
ones, oblong ovate; cauline ones, lanceolate linear; three feet
high ; in flower in June and July.
Campanula pyramidalis. — Pyramidal Bell-flower. — This
is a grand ornament, when cultivated in perfection, forming a
pyramid from four to six feet high, producing innumerable
flowers for two or three months, if shaded from the sun. It
was formerly a great favorite in England, but its popularity
has long since passed away to give place to other more fash-
ionable flowers, which have in their turn also been succeeded
by other rivals more fair. But the old-fashioned Hollanders
CAMPANULA. 99
are not quite so fickle ; flowers with them seem to be esteemed,
notwithstanding their antiquity. The Pyramidal Bell-flower is
said to be in demand there still, as an ornament to halls, stair-
cases, and for being placed before fire-places in the summer
seasons.
" By Seeds. — The plants so raised, are always stronger, and
the stalks rise higher, and produce a great number of flowers.
They are to be sown in pots of light earth, coon after being
gathered, protected by a frame during winter, and will come
up in the spring. When the leaves decay, in October, they are
to be transplanted to beds of light, sandy earth, without any
mixture of dung, which is a great enemy to this plant. Here
they are to remain two years, being protected by rotten tan ;
they are then to be removed to their final destination, in Sep-
tember or October ; and the year following, being the third
year from sowing, they will flower.
"The C. carpartica, grandiflora, and several other showy
species, may be similarly treated."
Seedling plants, in our climate, will flower the second year,
generally ; some not until the third. A slight protection is
necessary during winter.
Campanula grandiflora is now separated from Campanula,
and is united with the small genus Wahlenbergia, and is called
Wahlenbergia grandiflora.
Campanula trachelium. — Throat wort. — There are four
varieties of this species, viz., single and double blue, single and
double white ; flowers from July to August ; three or four feet
high.
Campanula rapunculus. — Rampion. — A native of the
woods of Britain, and cultivated not only for ornament, but
also, " in France and Italy, and sometimes in Britain, for the
roots, which are boiled tender and eaten hot, with sauce, or cold
with vinegar and pepper. It is sown in the spring, on deep,
light soil, in drills, and will be ready for use by the autumn of
the same year. C. persicafolia and rapuuculoides may also be
100 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
cultivated for the same purpose." A biennial, with purple
flowers in July and August ; three feet high.
Campanula glomereta, — Cluster-flowered, — " is a handsome
rock or pot plant ; it requires a dry, lean soil, otherwise, as in
most plants, the flowers lose the intensity of their color in that
which is very rich." Flowers purple, in clustered heads, in
May and June ; two feet high ; a native of Siberia. Leaves
scabrous, oblong "lanceolate sessile. Campanula urticifolia, spe-
ciosa, versicolor, azurea, bononiensis, lactiflora, aggregata, with
numerous other species, are worthy of a place in every garden,
as they are easily cultivated, succeed admirably in our climate,
and will endure the severest of winters. But a small portion
of this large genus require protection.
CAKDAMINE.
Cardamine pratensis pleno. — Double Cardamine. — A hardy
perennial, from Britain, one foot high, with double white
flowers, in May or June ; propagated by dividing the root.
CASSIA.
Cassia Marylandica. — Maryland Cassia. — A hardy, indig-
enous perennial, four feet high, with yellow flowers, from
August to September. Many of this genus are beautiful
plants, but mostly tender ; some species are sensitive, and close
their leaves in wet weather, or at the approach of night.
CATANANCHE.
Catananche cerulea. — Blue Catananche. — A handsome per-
ennial, from the south of Europe, one and a half foot high, with
CHR Y SAN V?1E I\2IT irt . 10 1
brilliant blue flowers in July and August. Propagated from
seed and parting the roots.
CHRYSANTHEMUM.
Chinese Chrysanthemum.
This is one of the handsomest autumnal flowers, and easily
cultivated in almost any soil. It stands the winter without
covering, but is best cultivated in pots, where it can receive
protection when in bloom, in severe weather in autumn. In
warm seasons, it flowers well in October and November, in a
sheltered place, in the open ground. The plants may be culti-
vated in the garden till they are in bud, when they may be
safely transferred to pots ; but it would be better to commence
their cultivation from the slip or cutting, in the spring, and
sink the pots into the ground, in a shady place, until the time
of taking up. The varieties are endless, early and late, tassel-
flowered, quilled, flat-pe tailed, &c., with every shade of light
purple, yellow, white, lilac, blush brown, red brown, &c.
For common culture, divide the roots in the spring, and
plant them out, where they are to stand, in a warm exposure,
in good rich loam. As they are coming into bud, give them
occasional waterings with liquid manure.
To produce handsome, dwarf, bushy plants, the following
course may be adopted, as practised by Youell & Co., Eng-
land, which course, they say, " if carried out, will ensure
dwarf plants from one and a half to two feet high, covered with
rich dark-green foliage, and carrying blooms from five to seven
inches in diameter. In the last week in May we select the
tops of the strongest shoots for cuttings, putting four or five
round the edge of a three-inch pot, and placing them in a
gentle warmth. When rooted, they are potted singly in the
same sized pot, and kept in a close frame, for a few days, until
they have become established. The tops may then be pinched
out, leaving five or six joints to remain for lateral shoots.
9*
OF FLOWERS.
After a few days' hardening off, they are then removed to an
open situation, allowing the plants a sufficient distance from
each other to prevent their drawing, care being observed that
they do not suffer from want of water. About the third week
in July, we shift, for blooming, into seven-inch pots, using a
small handful of coarsely-broken bones at the bottom. The
soil we use consists of equal parts of well decayed (one year
old) pig manure, turfy loam, and leaf-mould, adding half a
barrowful of peat, and half ditto of road-drift to every four
barrows of the above. When potted, they are placed in rows
two feet apart, and they require but little attention, except
watering, for two months. At the expiration of this period,
we commence watering twice a week with liquid manure,
made with one bushel of fresh pig manure (free from straw)
to about eighty gallons of water. This will be ready for use in
two or three days. As soon as the plants show flower-buds,
we tie each shoot to a stick, and train them fan-shaped. Dis-
budding ought now to be attended to, reserving only one, or,
at most, two, at the top of each shoot ; but where two are left,
it is better to take out the second bud, and leave the third, to
prevent confusion. As soon as the buds show color, the plants
are then removed to the green-house or conservatory, giving
plenty of air, and substituting water for liquid manure. We
ought to have mentioned that, where a profusion of bloom is
required, two or three plants may be inserted in the pots where
only one is usually grown. This will afford an opportunity
of cutting away the weakest shoots, and reserving the strongest
only."
CHELONE.
Chelone barbata. — Scarlet Chelome. — A half hardy perennial,
from Mexico, three feet high, from July to September, with
orange scarlet flowers. It will be necessary to cover it well
with fine boughs or straw, in the winter, or they may be
CLEMATIS.
103
destroyed by the cold. All the species are handsome border
flowers, of easy culture in a loam and peat soil, and can be
propagated by parting the roots, or by seed.
CLEMATIS.
Virgin's Bower.
Clematis, from Greek, a tendril ; in allusion to the climbing
habits of most of the species. The species are mostly climbing
shrubs, or herbaceous perennials, of rapid growth, free bloomers,
very ornamental, and some are highly odoriferous.
C. Virginicum is a native plant, well known as a great
climber, growing profusely upon the banks of our rivers and
wet places ; taking possession and covering all the shrubs in
its neighborhood, to which it attaches itself by its petioles,
which are given off, at intervals, in pairs, twining round objects
for support, and serving the purpose of tendrils. The flowers
are white, borne upon cymes, and make a handsome appear-
ance the beginning of August. The most remarkable appear-
ance of this plant is when in fruit; the long feathery tails of
seeds separating like tufts of wool. It grows twenty feet or
more in a season, most of which perishes, leaving but a small
portion shrubby. It makes an appropriate covering for an
arbor or wall ; for, whether in flower or seed, it is ornamental.
C. alpina, or erecta, is strictly an herbaceous plant, growing
from three to four feet high, producing large families of white
flowers in August. It requires support, as it has the propensity
to attach itself to everything in its neighborhood, like the last,
by its petioles.
Clematis integrifolia. — Entire-leaved. — A handsome, up-
right plant, about two feet high, producing nodding, bell-shaped,
blue flowers, most of the season.
C. vitacella is a much admired species, with blue flowers,
which are produced from June to September, on long peduncles,
104 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
from the axils of the leaves; rather bell-shaped, and nodding.
It is a climber, growing from eight to ten feet in a season ;
dying down to the ground, in this climate, but otherwise hardy.
There is a variety with double flowers, others with brownish
red flowers, and several improved varieties.
C. flammula is a luxuriant climber, producing clusters of
small white flowers, in August and September.
C. florida has large white flowers ; like the last, a luxuriant
climber. There is a variety with double flowers.
C. Sieloldii. — Siebold's Virgin's Bower. — This magnificent
plant is said to be a variety of C. florida, and, till lately, treated
as a green-house plant, but which has proved as hardy as the
other sorts. The flowers are three or four inches in diameter,
the outer sepals, or petals, a creamy white, filled up with others,
disposed of in many series, the groundwork of which is
white, suffused with a rich purple. No plant possesses a
stronger claim to a place in the flower-garden, from its graceful
habit, and from the size and beauty of its blossoms.
The plant thrives best in a mixture of loam and peat, and
is increased by layers. It was introduced by Dr. Siebold, from
Japan, a few years since. I have kept it two winters, by
covering it lightly with coarse manure.
C. azurea grandiflora, or Great-flowering Blue Virgin's
Bower, has still larger flowers than the variety Sieboldii. It has
the reputation of being more tender than this, requiring greater
heat to bring it to perfection. With me, it stood near the
other species two winters, with the same protection. The
flowers are produced only on the old wood ; it is necessary,
therefore, to lay down, and cover the growth of the season, to
insure bloom the next year. The flowers are four or five
inches in diameter, of a rich blue, in July ; a climber, like the
last, but not of so robust growth.
Besides the species and varieties enumerated, there are
many others, esteemed ornamental.
CONVALLARIA. 105
CONVALLARIA.
Solomon's Seal.
" No flower amid the garden fairer grows
Than the sweet Lily of the lowly vale,
The queen of flowers."
Convdllaria majalis. — Lily of the Valley. — An elegant
and delicate, sweet-scented plant, which for ages has been a
favorite flower, and highly prized. It succeeds well in the
shade in any soil, and soon spreads itself, by its slender, creep-
ing roots, beyond the desire of the cultivator. It flowers in
May and June. Gerarde describes it, in his quaint way, thus :
" The Lilly of the Vally hath many leaves like the smallest
leaves of Water Plantaine, among which riseth vp a naked
stalke, halfe a foot high, garnished with many white floures,
like bels, with blunt and turned edges, of a strong savour, yet
pleasant enoughf, which being past, there come small, red
berries, much like the berries of asparagus, wherein the seed is
contained."
Convallaria racemose, or Solomon's Seal, is a hardy, indige-
nous perennial, with yellow and white flowers, on terminal
raceme panicles, in May ; two feet high.
Convallaria multiflora, or Giant Solomon's Seal, is another
native perennial, two or three feet high, with white flowers, in
the axil of the leaves, in June. Both sorts are appropriate for
the shrubbery or borders. Gerarde, our old author, speaking
of the virtues of the plant, says, " that the roots are excellent
good for to seale or close up greene wounds, being stamped and
laid thereon, whereupon it was called Sigillum Salomoni's, for
the singular virtue it hath in sealing or healing vp wounds,
broken bones, and such like." He further says, " The root of
Solomon's Seale, stamped while it is fresh and greene, and
applied, taketh away, in one night, or two, at the most, any
bruise, blacke or bleu spots, gotten by fals, or women's wilful-
nesse, in stumbling upon their hasty husbands' fists, or such
like." A very useful plant, one would think, for some families
to cultivate.
106 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
CONVOLVULUS.
Morning Glory.
Convolvulus, from convolvere, to entwine. This is an
extensive genus, of much beauty. The sweet potato belongs
to this family. Nearly all are climbers.
Convolvulus panduratus. — Virginian Convolvulus. — This is
a beautiful perennial, from Virginia, with large, white flowers
and purple centre ; grows twelve feet high, flowering from
June to September. A variety has double flowers ; roots
tuberous.
Convolvulus arvensis. — Small White Convolvulus. — Hand-
some, indigenous, perennial, flowering in June or July ; stem
climbing.
CORONILLA.
Coronula varia is the only hardy herbaceous perennial with
which we are acquainted in the genus. It is worthy a place
in the flower-garden, provided it is kept within due bounds.
This may be done by digging round the plant, every spring,
with a spade, and removing from the ground all its young,
creeping roots, which otherwise would be too neighborly with
the other plants in its vicinity. Treated in this way, if the
soil is not very rich, it will give an immense number of its
pretty coronets of purple and white, or pink flowers, in long
succession, and they are generally admired. Leaves pinnate ;
leaflets numerous, lanceolate, smooth. Stem lax, four feet
high, requiring support from wire or light rods.
COREOPSIS.
Among the numerous family of Coreopsis, are included a
number of showy perennials, with yellow flowers, all perfectly
hardy, and easily propagated by division of the roots.
COREOPSIS. 107
Coreopsis lanceolata, — Lance-leaved, — is a fine species,
with lanceolate leaves, producing a profusion of large, rich,
yellow flowers, upon long peduncles, (flower-stems,) which
begin to open in June, and give a continued succession until
autumn. Height about two feet. This is almost the only
perennial which produces yellow compound flowers, so early
in summer. A small root, planted in April, will make a large
plant by autumn. All the species are propagated by dividing
the roots. They flourish in moist soils, but I have found them
most luxuriant in a deep, black loam, inclining to moisture.
In flower most of the summer.
Coreopsis verticillata. — Leaves verticillate (given off in a
circle round the stern) ; opposite, sessile (without footstalks) ;
ternate (in threes) ; or quinite (in fives) ; leaflets linear lance-
olate, entire ; rays of the flower acute, pale yellow ; disk, or
centre, dark brown. The flowers have a peculiar, star-shaped
appearance. It is said the florets are used to dye cloth red.
It is a handsome shrubbery or border plant, continuing from
July to October in bloom.
Coreopsis tenuifolia. — Slender-leaved. — The foliage of this
species very much resembles the last, with this difference, it is
much more delicate and finer. The flowers are of the same
shape, a deep, shining yellow, having its disk also yellow ; not
more than a foot high : in bloom in July and August. A hand-
some plant, suitable for the front of the border.
Coreopsis tripteris. — Three-leaved. — A tall, handsome plant,
suitable for the shrubbery, six feet high. Leaves on the stems
in threes; lanceolate, entire; radical ones pinnate; flowers yel-
low ; from August to October.
Coreopsis grandiflora. — Great-flowered. — The flowers are
not so large, however, as C. lanceolata, or so handsome. Its
habits are different from the other species, having creeping
roots, which throw up, in every direction, stems not more than
one foot high, with compound, much divided leaves ; leaflets
linear. As an exception to the other species, this is somewhat
tender, and requires protection.
108 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
There were as many as thirty species formerly included in
this genus, all of which are more or less ornamental, and
suitable for the shrubbery or border. Latterly, some of the
species have been distributed among the genus Actinomeris,
Simsia, and Calliopsis. In the last, C. tinctoria is now
arranged.
CORYDALIS.
Fumitory.
Corydalis fungosa. — Wood fringe, or Climbing Fumitory. —
An elegant, indigenous, biennial, climbing vine, growing, fre-
quently, in rich ground, from fifteen to thirty feet, in one season ;
with pink and white flowers, which are produced in abundance
during the three summer months ; handsome foliage. Propa-
gated from seed, which should be sown in April. The first
year, the plant makes but little progress ; but the second year,
it is of more vigorous growth. The young plants will do best
to be transplanted where to remain in July and August ; but
will bear moving in the spring, if done with much care.
Corydalis formosa. — Red-flowered Corydalis. — A handsome
indigenous perennial, with flesh-colored or reddish flowers,
from May to July ; from six to ten inches high.
Corydalis cucullaria. — Naked-stalked Corydalis, or Dutch-
man's Breeches. — An indigenous perennial, with elegant,
finely-divided leaves, of a pale and delicate green, from the
bosom of which arises a scape bearing a one-sided, simple
raceme of white, singular-looking, pendulous flowers.
It is vulgarly called Dutchman's Breeches, on account of the
resemblance of the corolla to that article of dress. Flowers in
May.
Corydalis glauca. — Glaucus-leaved Fumitory. — An indige-
nous biennial, from one to three feet high, with glaucous leaves ;
flowers yellow, red, and green, in June ; propagated by seed.
There are six or seven species of the Corydalis, all indige-
nous, some of them to be found in New England. A very
CYPREPEDIUM CYNOGLOSSUM DELPHINIUM. 109
pretty genus, most of them early flowering, and elegant plants,
and worthy of cultivation.
CYPREPEDIUM.
Lady's Slipper.
Cyprepedium, from Greek words, Venus, and a slipper,
in allusion to the elegant slipper-like form of the labellum.
Handsome indigenous plants, that thrive only in a shady border
and peat soil.
The most common species is C. humile, or Two-leaved Ladies'
Slipper, or Whip-poor-will Shoe. It is found in rich and some-
what shady woods, with two broad-plaited leaves, from which
rises a leafless scape, producing a solitary white and purple
flower, six or eight inches high. There are six species to be
found in the United States, with white, yellow, and purple and
white, or green flowers, all of them singular in shape.
CYNOGLOSSUM.
JVavelwort.
It is a beautiful little perennial plant, with brilliant blue
flowers, in April and May ; six inches high, and is common in
every cottager's garden in England ; and would be here, if
more extensively known.
DELPHINIUM.
Larkspur.
There are many species and varieties of the perennial Lark-
spur, which are indispensable in a collection of plants ; all hardy,
flourish in almost any soil, and easily propagated by dividing
the roots. The double varieties are in flower most of the sea-
10
110 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
son. The brilliancy of the blue color of some of the flowers
cannot be surpassed.
Delphinium sinensis pleno. — Double Chinese. — This is one
of the most magnificent of herbaceous plants. It can be prop-
agated only by dividing the roots, as it does not produce seed ;
it is perfectly hardy, enduring the coldest weather without pro-
tection ; it is best to give a little, however, as it will flower
stronger for it. The flowers are of a most beautiful lively
blue, in long open spikes, upon graceful, slender, purplish stems,
three feet high. From June to October it displays its beauty,
and is indispensable in the formation of a perfect bouquet.
Foliage palmate, many-parted.
Delphinium datum. — (Upright.) — Bee Larkspur. — So
called on account of the bifid termination of the nectary in
the centre of the corolla, in connection with the anthers having
a fancied resemblance to a bee.
This species, from its height, which is from five to seven
feet, is well adapted to the shrubbery ; its long, clustered spike
of fine blue flowers making a fine appearance in that depart-
ment. It is also suitable for the border, but should be planted
at the greatest distance from the walk. Leaves downy, five-
lobed ; lobes cuneate (wedge shape) at the base, trifid cut.
Propagated by seed or divisions of the roots.
The plant is covered with soft green down. It sports into
many varieties, from pale-blue to dark, and blue with a white
centre, which is very beautiful.
Delphinium Barlowii, — Barlow's Larkspur, — is a species
or variety apparently intermediate between the Great-flowering
and Bee Larkspur. It sends up a stem from three to five feet
high, much branched at the top, covered with innumerable
dark blue flowers in June and July, partaking somewhat of
the character of the Bee Larkspur. Propagated by divisions
of the root.
Delphinium grandiflorum. — Great-flowered. — One of the
most showy of the genus, sporting into many varieties. Its
height is from two to three feet, and continues to give a succes-
DIANTHUS. Ill
sion of flowers from June to October ; which are large, of a
fine blue, purple or white, double and single, and often spotted
or shaded on each petal with copper color on the dark varieties,
or with green on the white. Leaves palmate, (hand-shaped,)
many parted.
It is propagated by dividing the roots in the spring, about the
time it begins to vegetate, or it may be divided with success in
August. By sowing the seed, new varieties may be expected,
which, if done early, will flower in autumn. Nothing is more
pleasant than to originate a new variety. It must not be sup-
posed, however, that there will be much chance short of a hun-
dred plants. It has flourished with me in a variety of soils. It
will, in fact, grow anywhere without difficulty, only requiring
to be divided every few years, when the roots become large.
It is said to be a native of Siberia, and, of course, must be
hardy.
Among a multitude of beautiful seedlings of my own raising,
I have selected two as worthy of cultivation. The one named
Delphinium Breckii, No. 1, has large double flowers of the
most exquisite blue, which display themselves from June to
November. It is generally acknowledged to be finer than the
Double Chinese. The plant is more erect in its growth, from
two to two and a half feet high; the color a clear, light,
vivid, ultramarine blue.
Breck's No. 2, is darker colored than the last, and not quite
so double, but makes a fine show.
DIANTHUS.
Pink.
Dianthus, signifying the flower of God, or divine flower;
so named on account of its preeminent beauty. Most of the
species of this genus are highly valued, not only for the beauty
of their flowers, but also as being evergreens ; their foliage,
during winter, being as abundant and as vivid as in summer.
112 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
The fragrance of some of the species is peculiarly grateful, and
no plant in this respect surpasses the Clove and some other
varieties of the Pink.
Dianthus caryophyllus. — Carnation Pink. — There is no
flower more desirable in the flower-garden than the Carnation.
A well-grown, superior variety, cannot be surpassed, in ele-
gance, beauty, or odor, by any other flower ; yet we scarcely
ever see it in perfection. Its cultivation is attended with many
difficulties, in our climate, which may account for its rarity.
Our winters are too severe, and springs too changeable, to keep
them in perfection in the open ground ; and then our summers
are too dry and hot for the full development of its beauties.
Seedlings stand the winter and spring without difficulty, with
a light covering of leaves and evergreen boughs, and flower
very well ; but then not one plant in a hundred will be consid-
ered worth saving by the florist, although they will all be inter-
esting as single, semi-double, or irregular flowers, and richly
repay all the labor. Valuable varieties are generally propa-
gated from layers, which often keep very well in the open ground
by letting them remain with the parent plant, and covering
them with leaves and pine boughs ; but the most certain way
is, when the layers have taken root, to pot them, and at the
approach of winter put them in a frame where they may be
kept with perfect safety, provided air is given them in mild
weather, and they are not exposed to the sun when in a frozen
state. The mice are very destructive to all the pink family ;
therefore the frame must be tight.
Carnations are arranged by florists into three classes, viz.,
Flakes, Bizarres, and Picotees. Flakes have two colors only ;
their stripes large, going quite through the petals. Bizarres
are variegated, in irregular spots and stripes, with not less than
three colors. Picotees have a white ground, spotted or pounced
with scarlet, red, purple, or other colors. The finer sorts are
regularly edged with these colors, on a clear white or yellow
ground. The petals of a perfect flower should be rose-leaved,
or with entire edges ; the flower should be filled up in a reg-
DIANTHUS. 113
ular manner with leaves of this description. It flowers in
July. On a strong plant the stem will be three feet high.
The propagation of the Carnation by layers is a very simple
operation. When the plant is in perfection of bloom, lay
around it one and a half or two inches of compost, first gently
stirring the surface so that it may combine ; remove the lower
leaves of the shoots selected ; pass the penknife, slanting up-
wards, half through the joint ; fasten the shoot, where so cut,
about two inches under the surface, with a small hooked peg,
bending it carefully so as not to break at the incision ; then fix
it firmly by gently pressing the earth around with the fingers,
and finish by cutting off about half an inch of the upper
extremities of the leaves with scissors. The sap soon begins
to granulate at the wound, and throw out roots. In about a
month or six weeks, if it has been kept moderately moist, they
may be severed from the parent plant and established for them-
selves ; or they may remain where they are, if the stem to
which they are attached be carefully cut off.
The Carnation requires a rich, generous, deep soil. A com-
post of three parts of good, strong garden loam, three parts hot-
bed manure, two years old, three parts of coarse river sand,
two parts dry manure from a hen-house, sifted, and two parts
of soot from a wood fire, has been recommended for the Car-
nation.
D. hortensis. — Garden Pink. — This species is in perfection
about the last of June. The foliage is more grass-like, and
the plant much hardier, than the Carnation. The double vari-
eties are very desirable, not only for their beauty, but also for
their fragrance. They may be propagated by dividing the
roots, by layers, arid by pipings. The surest mode of propaga-
tion is by layers, but piping is generally resorted to for Pinks.
These are shoots cut from the plant at the second or third
joint, according as they are more or less woody or juicy, and
inserted, close to each other, in a bed of proper compost well
pulverized ; water moderately, so that the earth may adhere
closely round the shoots ; when the moisture has somewhat
10*
114 BEECH'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
evaporated from the leaves, cover them up with a hand glass,
which must be forced a little depth into the ground so as to
keep out the air. This need hardly be removed until the
plants have taken root; they must be shaded, however, the
first fourteen days, with mats over the glasses, when the sun is
very hot. If properly managed, not one in twenty will miss,
and between one and two hundred may be planted under one
glass ; in a month or six weeks they will be sufficiently rooted
to move. Carnations are sometimes raised from pipings, but
they are not so sure as Pinks to take root. This variety is
often called the Paisley Pink, on account of its having been
raised in the highest perfection among the weavers near Pais-
ley, in England. A good Pink should have a strong, elastic,
and erect stem, not less than one foot high. The petals should
be large and broad, with very fine-fringed edges, the nearer
rose-leaved the better. The ground-work of the flower should
be pure white, or rose-colored, with a dark, rich crimson, or
purple eye, resembling velvet; if nearly black, so much the
richer. A delicate margin, or lacing, round the entire petal,
if the color of the eye, increases its beauty. The flower should
be from two to two and a half inches in diameter.
Dianthus Chinensis. — China Pink. — This species is a bien-
nial of great beauty, but without fragrance ; of dwarf habits.
The foliage is of a yellowish green. It flowers from seed the
first year ; it is perfectly hardy, and flowers strong the second
year. The colors are exceedingly rich ; crimson, and dark
shades of that color approaching to black, are often combined
in the same flower, with edgings of white, pink, or other col-
ors. Seed, saved from double flowers, will produce a great
portion of double varieties. In beds where there may be a hun-
dred plants, scarcely two will be found alike. They are in
flower a number of months.
Dianthus barbatus, — Sweet William, — is an old inhab-
itant of the flower-garden, and was much esteemed in Ger-
varde's time, " for its beauty to deck up the bosoms of the beau-
tiful, and garlands and crowns for pleasure." It is an imperfect
DICTAMNUS. 115
perennial, but fine varieties are easily perpetuated by dividing
the roots, soon after flowering, in June or July. It is easily
raised from seeds. A bed of fine varieties presents a rich
sight ; it sports into endless varieties, viz., white, pink, purple,
crimson, scarlet, variously edged, eyed, and spotted. There
are also double varieties, but they are no improvement over the
single.
Dianthus superbus. — Superb Pink. — This is one of the
most fragrant of pinks, flowering in July and August ; two
feet high ; the petals are very much cut or fringed ; flowers
white.
Dianthus plumaris. — Feathered Pink. — The edges of the
flower are deeply fringed, or feathered ; very fragrant ; twelve
to eighteen inches high in July ; white, or pink, with a dark
eye ; sometimes called Pheasant-eyed Pink.
Dianthus alpinus. — Alpine or Dwarf Pink. — A pretty little
perennial, suitable for rock-work, with creeping roots ; although
not aspiring, (not exceeding three or four inches in height,)
soon takes possession of all the ground in the neighborhood.
The flowers are white, or flesh color, variegated with a circle
of red, or purple, in June and July.
There are many other species and varieties of Pinks, annual,
biennial, and perennial, all worthy a place in the garden.
DICTAMNUS.
Dictamnus fraxinella, — Red Fraxinella, — an ancient name
of what is now supposed to be the Origanum dictamnus.
Fraxinella, in allusion to the remarkable similarity which
exists between the leaves of the plant and Fraxinus, the ash.
The whole plant, especially when gently rubbed, emits an odor
like that of the lemon-peel, but, when bruised, has something
of a balsamic scent. This fine scent is strongest in the pedicels
of the flowers, which are covered with glands, of a rusty red
color, exuding a viscous juice, or resin, which exhales in vapor,
116 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
and in a dark place may be seen to take fire. It flowers from
May to July ; three feet high ; from Germany. There is also
a variety of species with white flowers ; propagated by parting
the roots.
DIGITALIS.
Foxglove.
Digitalis ; named, by Fuchs, from digitabulum, a thimble,
in allusion to the form of the flowers.
The species are, for the most part, showy border flowers, of
easy culture.
Digitalis purpurea, with purple flowers ; also a variety, D.
alba, with white flowers ; ornamental plants of great beauty,
producing dense spikes of flowers on stems, three, four, or five
feet high, in June and July, and straggling spikes most of the
season. It is a biennial, propagated by sowing the seed, which
flower the second year. The plant sometimes flowers the third
year. It may be perpetuated by dividing the roots every year,
and is sometimes called an imperfect perennial.
The plant is a violent poison, but valuable in medicine. It
is suitable for the border, and may be introduced into the shrub-
bery with fine effect, as its tall, spire-like spikes, crowned with
its large thimble or bell-shaped purple or white flower, will
finely contrast with the green foliage of the shrubs.
Digitalis ferruginea, or Iron-colored Foxglove ; a hardy per-
ennial, with brown flowers, from July to August; four feet
high.
Digitalis lutea, or Small Yellow Foxglove ; a hardy peren-
nial, with light yellow flowers, from July to August ; two
feet high.
Digitalis ochroleuca. — Great Yellow Foxglove. — A hardy
perennial, with large light yellow flowers, from July to Au-
gust ; four feet high.
DEDOCATHEON DRACOCEPHALUM. 117
Digitalis lanata, — Woolly-flowered Foxglove, — with white
and brown flowers, from July to August ; two feet high.
DODECATHEON.
Dodecatheon is a name of the Romans, signifying twelve gods
or divinities.
D. media. — American Cowslip. — A highly ornamental
plant, displaying its flowers in May arid June ; throwing up
stems a foot high, with a large, umbel-like cluster of singularly
beautiful pale purple flowers. The petals are re flexed, or
thrown back from the centre, like the Cyclamen. There is a
variety with white flowers. Soon after flowering, the foliage
dies down, and the plant is dormant during the summer, when
it may be propagated by parting the roots, leaving a bud, or
the rudiments of one, on the crown of each. It is a native
of the west and south, and perfectly hardy.
DRACOCEPHALUM.
Dragon's Head.
Dracocepkalum, from Greek words signifying a dragon's
head, because the flowers are fancied to resemble a dragon's
head. Most of the species are hardy perennials, easily propa-
gated from divisions of the root, and worthy of a place in the
garden.
D. Virginicum is a beautiful plant, producing its flowers in
dense, one-sided clusters, or spikes, of a purplish color, on
stems three feet high, from July to September.
D. detttaftm, — Dentated-leaved Dragon's-Head, — resembles
the last, but of a more dwarf habit ; two feet high ; flowers
pink, in July and August.
D. variegatum. — Variegated Dragon's-head. — Flowers
pink, variegated with darker shades.
118 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
D. speciosum. — Showy Dragon's-Head. — Pink flowers, in
July and August; three feet high; a native of Siberia.
D. Sibiricum. — Siberian Dragon's-Head. — One foot high,
from Siberia, with light-blue flowers, in July and August.
EPILOBIUM.
Willow Herb.
Epilobium, from Greek words, signifying a flower grow-
ing upon a pod. E. augtistifolium, and other species, are val-
uable in shrubberies as thriving under the drip of trees, and
succeed everywhere, even in the smoke of cities, and in parks.
It is a good plant to adorn pieces of water, being hardy, and
of rapid increase, and very showy when in flower.
The species E. spicatum and £. coloratum are indigenous,
and may be found growing in great luxuriancy on newly-
cleared land, among the raspberry bushes, and in other locali-
ties. It produces dense spikes of purplish red flowers, three or
four feet high, in July and August. It is often thought to be
a species of Phlox, by persons unacquainted with botany, as at
a short distance it has some resemblance to some of that family ;
but, upon examination, it will be found to be very different. It
is easily propagated by cuttings of its long, straggling roots.
It is found growing in rather a light soil.
ERYTHRONIUM.
Dog's-tooth Violet.
E. Americanum, — Yellow-flowered Dog's-tooth Violet, —
is a beautiful native plant, found in moist woods and thickets.
Its roots are bulbous, running deep into the ground ; they cannot
be removed in safety in the spring ; in July, they may be
carefully dug up and planted in a shady place in the garden.
Flowers yellow in May ; three inches high.
EUPHORBIA EUPATORIUM. 1 19
EUPHORBIA
Spurge.
Euphorbia corollata. — Great-flowered Euphorbia. — This is
one of the most elegant species peculiar to the United States ;
a perennial, with subdivided umbels of conspicuous white
flowers, and narrowish, oblong obtuse leaves. This plant is
not uncommon in the sandy fields of the Middle States, and is
in flower in June and July. Propagated by divisions of the
root.
Euphorbia lathyris. — Common Caper. — A half-hardy bien-
nial. A plant of handsome appearance, with inferior flowers
from May to September, — from England. From three to four
feet high. The plants will stand the winter without protection,
but are oftentimes entirely destroyed. A few plants should be
taken up and placed in a dry cellar, and planted out in the
spring.
EUPATOEIUM.
Thoroughwort.
Eupatorium purpureum. — Purple Thoroughwort. — Purple
flowers in August ; perennial ; four to six feet high ; indige-
nous ; leaves in fours and fives. This plant cannot be said to
be elegant, yet it is not destitute of beauty, and will be a val-
uable acquisition to the shrubbery. Its tall stem terminates in
large corymbs of small shining purple flowers.
Eupatorium ccdestinum. — Sky-blue Eupatorium. — A peren-
nial ; two feet high. This is the most beautiful species in exist-
ence. It grows wild, from the Potomac to the Mississippi. Its
flowers, produced very late in autumn, are of a beautiful smalt
or sky-blue. The roots of this species are creeping, from which
it is easily propagated.
'Eupatorium perfoliatum, — Bone-set, or Medicinal Thorough-
wort, — is a plant whose medicinal virtues are held in high
estimation ; but it has no claim to beauty.
120 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
GENTIANA.
Gentian.
Gentiana saponaria. — Barrel-flowered Gentian. — A hand-
some indigenous perennial, with blue flowers in September.
From one and a half to two feet high. A curious, barrel-
shaped flower, to be found on the margin of streams. It may
be transplanted to the garden without difficulty.
Gentiana crinata. — Fringed Gentian. — An elegant, deli-
cate flower, that may be found in meadows in September and
October, and ranked with one of our handsomest indigenous
plants. The corolla is pale-blue, four-cleft, segments finely
fringed; — perennial. Propagated from the seed. Should be
sown as soon as ripened. There are many other beautiful
species of Gentians, suitable for the border, highly esteemed in
England, but hardly known here.
GERARDIA.
American Foxglove.
Gerardm; in honor of John Gerarde, the old English
botanist.
Gerardia Jlava, and G. quercifolia, are beautiful native
plants, with five large, bell-shaped, yellow flowers, but difficult
to introduce into the flower-garden. Probably they would suc-
ceed from seed, if planted in a shady place.
GILIA.
Gilia coronopifolia, the Cantua coronopifolia of Willdenow.
— The different names of Ipomopsis, Cantua and Ipomea, have
given place to Gilia, amongst which genus, after minute exami-
nation, this flower has been most properly classed. It was
GLYCINE. 121
first introduced into England about the year 1720, from
seeds collected by Catesby, in the upper districts of Georgia
and Carolina ; but as the seeds are seldom perfected in that
climate, all traces of it have been lost, until very recently ;
we do not think that its beauty will allow it to share this fate
again, while the attention to horticulture remains in its present
state.
It is a biennial, of most elegant appearance, but is very sub-
ject to damp off, and difficult to keep through the winter.
Much protection is sure to kill the plants. It has generally
been considered a tender plant, and treated as such. Having
many fine plants, I distributed them in various exposures, in
hopes to save some. About half of the whole number were in
fine condition in the spring. The driest soil, in the shade of
a fence, seems to be the most favorable situation for them.
If the ground is inclining to moisture, there is but little
chance for them. So fine a plant as the Gilia deserves a place
in every garden. I should recommend, for experiment, to sow
the seed in August, as, perhaps, the small plants would endure
the winter better than large ones.
The plant grows from four to five feet high. The foliage is
superb, similar to the Cypress vine, with numerous scarlet-
spotted flowers, that continue in bloom a number of months.
The plants may be potted and kept in the house, or green-
house, through the winter, and then planted out in the open
border.
GLYCINE.
Ground-nut.
" Glycine, from glykys, sweet ; the leaves and root of one
species are sweet. Glycine frutescens. and especially Glycine
sine.nsis, (now Wistaria consequena,) are most beautiful hardy
climbing shrubs, with long, pendulous branches of blue flowers,
like the Laburnum."
11
122 BRECK'S BOOK.JOF FLOWERS.
Glycine apios, or ground-nut, indigenous and common in rich,
moist woods and thickets, produces flowers in axillary, crowded
racemes, of a blackish purple, and makes a pleasing addition to
the various ornaments of the border. Its roots are strings of
oblong cylindric tubers, frequently known by the name of pig,
or Indian potatoes ; when roasted or boiled, they are eatable,
having a flavor approaching the common potato, and said to
have made an ordinary part of the vegetable food of the abo-
rigines. The leaves are pinnated, each consisting of from five
to seven ovate acuminate leaflets. Stems round, twining;
from six to eight feet high ; flowering in July and August.
GERANIUM.
Geranium prate?ise. — It is said that " its flowers partake
of a degree of delicacy by which it greatly surpasses in effect
its more common blue congener. Its flowers vary much in the
portion of color which they display, some being nearly all
blue, whilst others are produced completely white."
Geranium angulatum. — Angular-stalked-Crane's bill. — This
species is a native of Europe, and has been cultivated since
1789. A perennial, of easy-culture, eighteen inches high, with
a profusion of pink flowers in June.
" The Geranium angulatum, from its numerous flowers, is
highly ornamental. It may be appropriately planted among
low shrubs, or strong herbaceous plants ; and it will succeed
in rather shady places, which renders it oftentimes a desirable
plant. Divisions of the roots afford sufficient increase."
GLAUCIUM.
Glaucium fulvum. — Horned Poppy. — It has an unlucky com-
mon name, otherwise it would, perhaps, be more generally intro-
duced into the garden than it appears to be, as it deserves a
HEPATICA HESPERIS. 123
f
place in every collection, not so much for its flowers, which are
very pretty, but particularly for its " sea-green, dew-bespangled
leaves," which are universally admired, and peculiar to the
genus. The flowers are yellow or orange, and continue
through the season. It is a biennial, a native of the south of
Europe.
" The whole plant abounds in a yellow juice."
G. luteum with yellow, and G. phceniccum with red flowers,
are annuals.
HEPATICA.
Early Anemone.
Hepatica triloba. — Three-lobed. — This delicate little plant
is one of the earliest visitors in spring, flowering in sunny spots
before the snow has left the ground. The flowers are bluish-
purple, and sometimes white. The leaves are heart-shaped at
base, divided into three lobes. Found in open woods. It suc-
ceeds well in a shady place in the garden. There are some
lovely cultivated varieties, with double blue, red and white
flowers, but they are rarely seen in collections of plants.
HESPERIS.
Garden Rocket.
Hesperis matronalis. — Dame's Violet. — The single varieties
of this fragrant flower are common in most gardens. It is a
biennial or imperfect perennial, easily raised from seeds, pro-
ducing flowers the second year, on long spikes, in May and
June, of various shades, from pure white to purple ; three to four
feet high. Fine varieties may be perpetuated by divisions of
the root. Perfectly hardy. The double varieties of this flower
are superb, and highly esteemed for their fragrance and beauty.
124 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
There is a purple and white variety, both very double, forming
a spike about one foot high. It was known in Gerarde's time,
and cultivated by him in 1597. He remarks, " By the indus-
try of some of our* florists, within these two or three years, hath
bin brought unto our knowledge a very beautiful kind of these
Dame violets, having very fair, double, white floures." These
double varieties are very difficult to preserve, consequently
rarely to be seen.
HELIANTHUS.
Sun-Flower.
Hdiantkus, from Greek, signifying the sun and a flower.
Nothing can be a more complete ideal representation of the
sun, than the gigantic annual Sun-flower, with its golden rays.
It is dedicated, with great propriety, to the sun ; but the idea,
entertained by some, that the flowers are turned to the sun at
all hours of the day, is erroneous.
. There are varieties of indigenous perennial Sun-flowers, that
produce a profusion of yellow flowers in autumn ; which, being
generally tall-growing plants, (from four to six feet high,) might
be an additional ornament to extensive shrubberies.
Helianthus multiflora. — Many-flowered. — The double vari-
ety of this plant has large deep-yellow flowers, in August and
September, of the size and form of the Dahlia. It has thick,
fleshy roots, every piece of which will make a strong plant when
planted in the spring. I have found it rather tender in moist
ground, but in dry locations, with a little protection, it stands
the winter; — five to six feet high.
HEMEROCALLIS.
Day Lily.
Hemerocattis. from the Greek words, signifying beautiful
day-lily ; part of the tribe is now separated in the genus Funlcia.
It is an ornamental tribe, of the easiest cultivation.
HIBISCUS. 125
Hemerocallis flava, — Yellow Day Lily, — has a brilliant
yellow lily-shaped flower in June ; two feet high ; leaves long-
keeled, linear.
H. fulva. — Copper-colored Day Lily. — An old inhabitant
of the flower-garden ; in flower most of the season ; four feet
high ; flower, yellowish copper-color ; leaves like the last, but
much larger.
H. ccerulea, now, Funkia c&rulea, — Blue Day Lily, — is a
plant with broad ovate leaves ; flowers blue, in June and July ;
two feet high.
H. japonica, or Funkia japonica, — White Day Lily, — has
large, pure white, fragrant flowers, which open daily in the
month of August, on stems one and a half to two feet high ;
leaves broad ovate, nerved.
These and other Day Lilies are hardy, easily propagated by
division of the roots, and require little or no protection.
HIBISCUS.
Hibiscus is one of the Greek names for the Mallows. The
species are for the most part showy, and easily cultivated ; the
flower is Mallows or Hollyhock shaped.
Hibiscus militarus. — Halbert-leaved Hibiscus. — This is a
fine species ; growing six to eight feet high ; producing very
large white flowers, with a deep-red centre. In August and
September.
H. palustris, — Marsh Hibiscus, — is found growing in some
parts of New England, by the sides of streams ; it has large
pink flowers. The height and habits are like the last. They
are easily propagated from seeds or divisions of the root. They
succeed in any good garden soil ; but flourish better in a moist
low ground. It is well adapted for planting in the shrubbery.
11*
126 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
HYPERICTJM.
St. John's-wort.
Of this plant there are several varieties growing wild, which
are troublesome weeds.
Hypericum ascyroides. — Giant Hypericum. — This is a tall
plant, three or four feet high, with large yellow flowers with
numerous stamens ; it prefers the shade of trees, which makes
it a valuable ornament for shrubberies.
IBERIS.
Candy Tuft.
There is but one species of perennial Candy Tuft generally
known among us, and this is deserving a place in every garden,
which is Iberis tenoreana. This plant is half shrubby at
the base, with delicate linear foliage, and is covered with a
profusion of its pure white flowers, in umbel-like corymbs, in
June and July. The stems are rather decumbent and spread-
ing ; about six inches high. The plant is propagated by layers,
or cuttings. It is not inclined to make itself too common, like
some plants ', for, unless special pains are taken, it will not
increase.
IBIS.
Fleur-de-luce.
11 The enamelled earth, that from her verdant breast
Lavished spontaneously ambrosial flowers,
The very sight of which can soothe to rest
A thousand cares, and charm our sweetest hours."
The bulbous-rooted species of this very extensive and orna-
mental family have already been treated of. — See page 59. —
IRIS. 127
The species and varieties of the Iris are almost without end ;
most of them tuberous-rooted ; of easy culture and propagation,
by division of the roots ; suitable for the border, most of them
being hardy. I shall note such as have come under my
observation.
Iris pumila, — Dwarf Iris, — is from three to six inches
high, with rich purple flowers, early in May.
L cristata, — Crested Iris, — is another dwarf variety, of
the same height of the last, with elegant, variegated, light-blue,
crested flowers, in May ; with creeping roots ; a very desirable
species.
L Jlorentina, — Florentine Iris, — has large white flowers,
in May and June ; two feet high.
/. germanica, — German Iris, — is the common Fleur-de-
luce of the gardens well known to all. Flowers large, blue
and purple ; two feet high ; May and June ; similar to the last
in size and habits.
/. pallida. — Pale Turkey Iris. — A very fine species, with
straw-colored flowers, veined with brown. One and a half
foot high ; in June. The stems are many-flowered, and stand
above the leaves.
I. variegata, — Variegated Iris, — is a very delicate and
elegant species. The flowers bluish-white, elegantly feathered
with blue ; in June ; stem many-flowered, two feet high.
J. sambuciarui. — Elder-scented Iris. — A very beautiful
species, with brilliant, pale-blue, variegated flowers, on stems,
many-flowered, four feet high, standing above the foliage,
which is long and narrow, or more grass-like than the common
sorts. The roots of it are of a more fibrous character than
most of the family, and mat together so hard that they are
with difficulty separated. A clump of this, with its numerous
rich flowers rising above their graceful foliage, makes as much
show as any other plant of its season. The last of June.
L pscud-acorus, — The Yellow-water Iris of England, — has
handsome yellow flowers, the last of June, three feet high.
J. ccelestina. — Sky-blue Iris. — This is a magnificent plant,
128 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
with long, broad leaves, and very large, light-blue flowers, on
stems three feet high.
/. versicolor. — Blue Flag. — This is a fine indigenous
species, a showy ornament of our meadows in the early part of
summer. It succeeds well in the garden.
/. gracilis is another native species, but not very common.
It has grass-like foliage, with stems one foot high, with a num-
ber of small purple flowers, veined with yellow ; very pretty.
There are many other fine Iris in cultivation, with which
there has been such a hocus-pocus game played by the florist,
that it is impossible to tell their origin. I have a number of
varieties of this kind: one, a dwarf yellow, one foot high;
another, of the same height, upper petals yellow, lower ones
rich brown ; one ash color, shaded with blue ; one rich dark-
purple ; and a yellow flower, with variegated leaves. There
are, also, varieties innumerable, with every mixture of yellow,
blue, brown, purple, and white in their coloring.
LATHYRUS.
Everlasting Pea.
Lathyrus latifolius, or Everlasting Pea, is a most beautiful,
large, diffuse perennial, producing a long succession of large
light-purple or pink flowers, in clusters of eight or ten each.
The plant is suitable for the shrubbery, arbors, or for training
to a trellis. When supported, it attains the height of six feet.
"It attaches and supports itself, like all scandent plants, by
means of the branching tendrils terminating its single pair of
broad leaflets, and which twining, economical processes are, in
fact, reasoning from strict analogy, the abortive rudiments of
other sets of leaves, though never developed."
A variety has white flowers. It may be propagated by
dividing the roots, or more extensively by sowing the seeds,
LAMIUM LOBELIA. 129
which ought to be planted where the plant is to stand, as it
sends down a tap root to a great depth.
Young plants will flower, the second year, feebly, but the
third or fourth year they produce a profusion of foliage and
flowers. Some botanists have suggested that it might be
applied to agricultural purposes with profit, on account of its
yielding so great a quantity of fodder and seed.
Lathyrus grandiflorus. — Great-flowered Everlasting Pea.
— The flowers are very large, rose-colored, and appear two or
three together ; the foliage and stems light and elegant. Not
in common cultivation.
LAMIUM.
Lamia was a celebrated sea-monster. The flowers of this
genus have a considerable resemblance to the grotesque figure
of some beast. Most of the species are ugly weeds.
Lamium rugosom, or Kough-leaved Lamium, produces clus-
ters of its curious white flowers all the season, and is suitable
for rock-work. The odor of the plant is rather unpleasant.
LOBELIA.
Cardinal Flower.
The generic name is in honor of M. Lobel, physician and
botanist to James I. The genus is very large, containing more
than eighty species. The predominant color is blue. Many of
the family are very ornamental. The most desirable for the
border, that are much known, are L. cardinal™, siphilitica, ful-
gens, splendens, and speciosa. The two first will stand the winter
very well, with some protection ; but the last three must be
potted in the fall, and kept in a frame, or in the cellar, and
planted out in the spring.
Lobelia cardinalis. — Scarlet Cardinal Flower. — This
130 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
splendid native plant embellishes the borders of our brooks and
rivulets, in the months of July and August, with its unrivalled
scarlet blossoms. It is a mistaken notion that it will flour-
ish only in wet ground. I have taken it up, when grow-
ing in water, and planted it in a soil that was far from being
moist, with good success. It was introduced into England in
1629, and, to this day, is duly appreciated. Justice, who pub-
lished a work on gardening, in 1754, in describing it, says : —
" It is a flower of most handsome appearance, which should not
be wanting in curious gardens, as it excels all other flowers
I ever knew in the richness of its color." It has an erect
stem, two to three feet high, with broad lanceolate, serrate
leaves; flowers in terminal spikes, pointing one way. The
roots of all the species are composed of many white fleshy
fibres.
L. fulgens, — the Fulgent Cardinal Flower, — is a native of
Mexico, and was introduced into England in 1S09. Leaves
narrow lanceolate, toothed, revolute at the edge ; stem pubes-
cent, (downy,) three feet high; its bright scarlet flowers in
terminal racemes.
L. splendens, — the Splendid Cardinal Flower, — is also a
native of Mexico, introduced into England in 1814. Leaves
narrow lanceolate ; stem quite smooth, three feet high ; flowers
brilliant scarlet, in terminal racemes.
L. ijiflata, or Bladder-podded Lobelia, is probably familiar
with every one, at least its name. Its virtues are so highly
prized by some, that we are almost led to suppose that it is a
sovereign remedy for all diseases that flesh and blood are heir
to. The plant is an annual, of not much interest, with small
blue flowers, and inflated pods or seed-vessels, common in dry
pastures and road sides. The whole plant is a violent emetic.
It is not used often by regular practitioners.
L. speciosa, — the Showy Cardinal Flower, — " is a new and
very late introduced variety. It was found growing among the
other varieties, in a flower border in Scotland, and is supposed
to be a hybrid between siphilitica, and either fulgens or cardi-
LOBELIA. 131
nalis. Its rich purple blossoms form a fine contrast with the
bright scarlet ones of the other varieties." The leaves like ful-
gens ; stem also pubescent.
L. sipkilitica, — the Blue Cardinal Flower, — is a native of
Virginia, and introduced into England in 1665. " It has its
specific name from its supposed efficacy in the cure of the
syphilis, among the North American Indians. Sir William
Johnson purchased the secret from them, but Woodville says its
virtues have not been confirmed by any instance of European
practice." Stem erect, two feet high ; raceme leafy, with
flowers of a bright sky-blue.
The treatment is the same for all those enumerated. I once
had them in great perfection, having a soil and situation well
adapted to their growth, with a little preparation. The soil,
naturally, was a black, heavy loam, upon a clay and gravel
subsoil, a little springy, and never very dry. On the spots
designed for their location, I threw four or five shovelfuls of
river-sand, and two of partly decomposed nigbt-soil compost,
and had it thoroughly incorporated with the soil, for two feet
round, which made it quite light, and placed the plants in the
centre. They began to flower in July, and continued to throw
up vigorous stems, with an abundance of flowers, until October.
Their growth was so luxuriant, that it was necessary to tie up
to slender rods, stuck into the ground, a number of times, to
prevent them from being broken by the wind. Cardincdis and
fulgens were more than three feet high ; the others between
two and three feet. They may be easily propagated, by laying
the stems in July and August, or dividing the roots in the
spring, or by seed.
" Van Mons observes, that L. cardinalis perishes in sandy
soil, but becomes strong and multiplies in loam, while, at
the same time, it produces the most brilliant colors in the
former.
" The same thing may doubtless be predicted of the other
species, it being a well-known law of nature, as to living
132 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
beings, that their energies are concentrated in proportion to the
obstacles thrown in the way of their expansion."
L. spicata. — Synom. pdllida. — A beautiful indigenous spe-
cies, common in most pastures and by the road sides, with
lively pale-blue flowers, in long terminal spikes, in July.
Stem upright, smooth, a little hairy, one and a half foot high.
I have never seen this species cultivated, but have no doubt
but what it would be very much improved, and prove a valu-
able acquisition to the border.
I have succeeded with Lobelia cardinalis, in rather a dry,
loamy soil, without much care ; but, to have it in its greatest
perfection, it should have a moist location.
LUNARIA.
Honesty.
Lunaria liennis. — Honesty is an old-fashioned plant, flow-
ering the second year from seed, and then dying. It produces
large purple flowers, in May and June, that are succeeded by
large elliptical pods, which, when dry, are rather ornamental.
Lunaria is from luna, the moon, in allusion to the broad, round,
silvery pods or silicles.
LUPIN.
Most of the species are ornamental plants, suitable for the
garden ; some annual, but mostly perennials.
laipinus perennis is a well-known species, indigenous to
many parts of New England, found, frequently, in large masses,
from a yard to two rods in circumference, occupying the very
poorest sandy or gravelly arid soil; frequently in company
with the pretty Silene Pennsylvanica, or Wild Pink, and more
LUPIN.
133
commonly with Viola pedata, or Bird's-foot Violet, all of which
are in bloom about the first of June. It is very difficult, or
even impossible, to transplant, with success, this fine perennial.
The only sure way to propagate it is by seed, which should be
gathered before it is entirely ripe, as it is scattered, as soon as
mature, by the sudden bursting of the pod, by which the seed
is thrown to a considerable distance. Nor will it succeed, like
the last described species, on rich ground ; but whenever the
seeds are to be sown, the soil should, in the first place, be
removed, or a greater part of it, from a circle whose diameter
is three or four feet, and the hole be filled up with a poor,
gravelly or sandy soil, and the seed sown in the centre.
The flowers are found, in the wild state, of various colors
and shades, from pure white (which is rare) through all the
shades of light to dark-blue, inclining to purple ; the margin of
the flowers is frequently copper color, sometimes inclining to
red. One variety has flowers of a dull pink. Stem erect,
hairy. The digitate leaves are composed of about eight or ten
leaflets, which are lanceolate, wedge-shaped, arranged like rays
around the end of the petiole ; hairy and pale underneath.
Many beautiful Lupins have, within a few years, been added
to the list of herbaceous plants, chiefly through the exertions
of Mr. Douglas, in his excursions in North and South America,
most of which were found on the North-west coast, from Cali-
fornia to the Columbia river, which part of the world seems to
be the central position, or head quarters, of this genus of plants,
more being found here than in all the world besides.
Lupinus polypkyllus, — Many-leaved Lupin, — is a splendid
plant, from the north-west coast of North America. The fol-
lowing account, which I gave of it fifteen years ago, is as
good as new : — >
" I received seed of this fine Lupin, a few years since, only
one of which vegetated. It produced radical leaves, only, the
first year, which were multifoliated, and borne on long petioles.
The second year, it was transplanted, with much care, into rich
soil, having been exposed, through the winter, to all the rigors
12
134 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
of the season, without protection. In the month of May the
flower-stalks began to be developed, arid produced, in June,
spikes of flowers, which were two feet in length, and from three
to four feet in height from the ground. The flowers are dis-
posed in long terminal clusters, of a beautiful azure blue, with a
reddish border, forming a kind of whorls, very near each other,
round the stem. The leaves are composed of from twelve to
fifteen green, lanceolate leaflets, hairy on the under side. The
flowers resemble those of blue Sophora, (Baptisa australis,} but
far more elegant. The third year it flowered abundantly,
throwing up numerous flower-stems, so luxurious that many
were broken by the wind before they were secured by stalks.
The third year the roots should be divided, as they become
large in rich ground ; the central part first decays, and finally
the whole root perishes, unless this operation is performed.
There is also a white variety."
There is also a number of other species, among which are L.
grandiftora, and other fine sorts. They are best propagated
by seeds ; but, with care, some of the sorts may be increased
by divisions of the roots.
LYCHNIS.
Lychnis ckalcedonica. — Scarlet Lychnis. — This is common
in most gardens, under the name of London Pride. It is an
esteemed border flower, of easy cultivation. The flowers are
brilliant scarlet, which make it more valuable, as comparatively
few flowers of that color are to be found among hardy herba-
ceous plants. One of the most splendid decorations of the bor-
der is the Double Scarlet Lychnis. It is propagated only by
divisions of the root, or cuttings of the flower-stem ; the single
variety is raised freely from seed. The cuttings are taken off
at any time when the shoots are tender, and planted in a sandy
loam, in a warm situation, but covered with a hand-glass and
shaded from the sun. When well-established, they may be
transplanted into the bed or border where they are to remain,
LYSAMACHIA. 135
and will flower strongly the next year. There is also a single
and double white variety. All the varieties do best in a light,
rich, loamy soil. It is necessary to take up and divide the
roots every other year. The best time to do this is early in
the spring. A light protection is necessary to the double vari-
eties, to insure a vigorous bloom. The flowers are fascicled,
(collected in bundles,) level-top or convex; two feet high; in
June and July. The double varieties continue to give flowers
until autumn.
L. fulgens, — splendid, — is a hardy species from Siberia,
with scarlet flowers ; one foot and a half high ; not common
with us.
L. coronata is a showy species from China. The flowers
are large, solitary, terminal, and axillary, red, the petals torn;
one foot and a half high. Unfortunately, this beautiful plant
will not stand our winter in open ground ; it therefore requires
to be taken up and potted in autumn, and protected in the
house or frame. It thrives and flowers abundantly most of the
season, if planted out in the spring. It may be raised from
seeds or cuttings.
L.floscuculi. — Ragged Robin. — This is an old inhabitant
of the flower-garden, a native of Britain. The double variety
is deservedly esteemed, is very ornamental, easy to cultivate,
and flourishes in any common garden soil. It is propagated
by divisions of the root. Flowers fine deep pink.
L. viscaria, with pink ; L. diurna, with purple ; and L.
vespertine, with white flowers, all natives of Britain, are hand-
some border flowers in their double varieties.
L. viscaria plena is a fine border flower, and very hardy ; one
foot high in June,
LYSAMACHIA.
Loose Strife.
Most of the species are bog plants, of the easiest culture.
L. mummularia, — Moneywort, — is an ornamental, creep-
136 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
ing perennial, with yellow flowers all the season, suitable for
rock-work, or hanging from a pot in a northern exposure ; a
number of the indigenous species are worth cultivating.
LYTHRUM.
Willow Herb.
Lytkrum, from the Greek, black blood ; in allusion to the
color of the flowers.
L. salicaria is a native British perennial, and is considered a
handsome border flower ; three or four feet high, with purple
flowers in July and August ; leaves opposite, cordate, lanceo-
late ; flowers in spikes.
MALVA.
Mallows.
Some of the species are showy plants. All the species
are of the easiest cultivation.
M. alcea. — A pretty, hardy perennial, from Germany, with
purple flowers from July to October ; three feet high ; easily
propagated by seed or divisions of the roots.
Varieties of the same, with pink and white flowers ; lower
leaves angular; upper, five-parted, cut; stems and calyxes
velvety.
MONARDA.
Tall Balm.
Monarda, in honor of Nicholas Monardez, a physician
of Seville in the 16th century. Most of the species are aro-
matic, and resemble mint in their habits and mode of cul-
ture.
CENOTHERA ORCHIS. 137
M. didyma. — Oswego Tea. — A perennial, native of North
America, as are all the species ; an ornamental plant, three
feet high, with very brilliant scarlet flowers from June to Au-
gust.
The leaves are sometimes used as a substitute for tea, and
known by the name of crimson balm, or bergamot.
M. fistula has light purple flowers, not so handsome as the
last. There are also other species which, in a large collec-
tion, would be interesting.
(ENOTHERA.
Evening Primrose.
A number of the family are hardy perennial border plants.
The flowers of most of the species expand in the evening.
O. macrocarpa. — This showy species has large, fleshy
roots, which throw out decumbent stems, producing in succes-
sion, through the summer, numerous large yellow flowers, four
or five inches in diameter.
O. speciosa has creeping roots, with stems one and a half
foot high, with large white flowers, from June to September.
O.fruticosa has rather shrubby stems two feet high, with
dark yellow flowers in July and August.
O. fraseri is one and a half foot high, with yellow flowers,
from June to October.
O. taraxiciflora is a magnificent perennial, not very common,
with large white flowers. All the species succeed well in any
common garden soil, and easily propagated from divisions of
the root, and from seed when it can be obtained.
ORCHIS.
This is a beautiful and very curious genus of plants, of
which we have a number of native species, growing mostly in
swampy places. They will not succeed well in the garden,
138 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
unless they can have a moist, shady place, with a soil similar
to that from which they were taken. The flowers are produced
on leafless stems in spikes, from one to two feet high, in July
and August. Some have pink, and others white, finely-
fringed flowers.
OROBUS.
Bitter Vetch.
Orobus niger is a hardy perennia 1, with which we have been
acquainted for a number of years, and can recommend it as
being pretty, with very dark purple, flowers, which are produced
in June and July ; two or three feet high ; stem branched ;
leaves in six pairs, ovate oblong ; racemes one-sided, many-
flowered.
O. atropurpureus. — The flowers are a fine purple, in a
dense, one-sided, many-flowered raceme. In the gardens it is
a hardy perennial, flowering in May.
O. luteus is considered by some as the handsomest of the
papilionaceous tribe.
PAPAVER.
Poppy.
Papaver orientalis. — Oriental Poppy. — This is a most mag-
nificent perennial, worth all the rest of the Poppy tribe. Its
large, gorgeous, orange scarlet flowers, display themselves in
the month of June. The bottoms of the petals are black ; the
stigma is surrounded by a multitude of rich purple stamens,
the anthers of which shed a profusion of pollen, which pow-
ders over the stigma and the internal part of the flower, giving
it a very rich appearance.
The flower-stems are rough, three feet high, each one bearing
a single solitary flower, five or six inches in diameter. A clump,
with twenty or thirty of these flowers, makes one of the most
PENTSTEMON. 139
conspicuous and showy ornaments of the garden. Leaves are
scabrous, (rough,) pinnate, serrate. Propagated by dividing the
roots, which should be done as soon as the foliage has died
down in August, as it commences growing again in September,
and throws up leaves which remain during winter, it being one
of the most hardy plants. If deferred until spring, if it flowers
at all, it will be weak. It may also be propagated from seed,
but does not commonly flower until the third year. A native
of Levant.
Papaver bracteatum, — Bracted Poppy, — is another superb
perennial, very much like the last, a native of Siberia. The
flowers are a deeper red, and the only essential difference is in
the leafy bractes by which the flowers are subtended. Propa-
gated in the same way ; with us, it has not flowered so freely.
"Papaver cambricum is admired for its yellow petals." It
is now called Mecoviopsis cambrica; not common with us.
There are also a number of other species and varieties of peren-
nial poppy, as P. nudicaule, with two or three varieties with
yellow, and one with scarlet flowers, from Siberia, one foot
to one and a half high. P. pyranaicum, from the Pyrenees,
with yellow flowers, and a variety with red, one foot high.
P. alpinum, from Austria, has white flowers three quarters of
a foot high.
PENTSTEMON.
The genus Pentstemon embraces a family of beautiful plants,
worthy the attention of the amateur. Most of the species are
hardy, while others require the protection of the frame during
the winter. The genus is peculiarly American, abounding in
the west and south-west of our vast country, and Mexico. The
flowers of all the species are bell-shaped, more or less open.
The colors are scarlet, purple, blue, &c.
The following species have flowered in our collection : —
140 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
P. pubescens produces purplish blue flowers in June ; one
and a half foot high ; leaves downy.
P. Icevigatum is very similar, excepting it has smooth leaves
and paler flowers ; two feet high.
P. pulchella has large, bell-shaped, pale-purple flowers in
autumn ; one foot high.
P. atropurpurea has dark ruby-purple flowers from July to
October ; one and a half foot high.
P. cceruleum is one of the finest of the genus, with beauti-
ful blue flowers in August and September ; one and a half foot
high.
P. coccinnea is similar to P. atropurpurea, excepting the
flowers are scarlet.
All the species may be propagated by dividing the roots, if
done with care ; or by cuttings, the most certain method ; or
by layers. They may also be raised from seed, which should
be sown in May, in the open ground, in a moist, shady place.
There are numerous varieties and species, besides those here
named.
PHLOX.
"Your voiceless lips, O flowers, are living preachers, —
Each cup a pulpit, and each leaf a book,
Supplying to my fancy numerous teachers,
From lowliest nook ! "
It has been truly said that a collection of Phloxes, when
properly attended to, would of themselves constitute a beautiful
flower-garden. So numerous are the species, and so infinite the
varieties, that a continual bloom may be kept up, with a good
selection, from May to October. The genus is exclusively
North American, and, in the South and West, is one of the
most conspicuous ornaments of the prairies and woods.
The late-flowering sorts are much to be prized on account of
their lively colors of purple, red and white, and form a fine con-
trast with the other autumnal flowers, which are mostly yellow.
PHLOX. 141
The vernal ones, too, are acceptable, though humble in growth,
and delight the eye with their brilliancy and loveliness. The
summer varieties embrace some of the most beautiful sorts ;
they being intermediate in height, more delicate in foliage, and
include most of the fine new eyed, striped or shaded varieties.
They flower the second time if cut down immediately after
flowering, in July.
While many herbaceous plants require protection in winter,
none of those I am about to describe need it, with the exception
of the dwarf species, which are evergreen ; the flower-buds are
formed in autumn, and should be slightly protected, or rather
shaded. It is not so much the cold as the powerful March sun
which does the damage ; all that is necessary, in most cases, of
protection, is to prevent the action of the sun upon the plant
when in a frozen state. Most of the species delight in a moist,
rich soil, but succeed tolerably well in almost any situation,
provided that it is not very light and dry. No plant is more
easily propagated. It is done generally by dividing the roots
immediately after the bloom is over, for the early-flowering
sorts, and in the spring for the late ones. They may also be
raised easily from cuttings, and from seed.
CLASS I. EARLY VARIETIES FLOWERING- IN MAY.
Phlox subulata. — Moss Pink. — The leaf is subulate or awl-
shaped : that is, narrow at the base, and becoming more or less
curved to one side at the point. This pretty species displays
its showy pink flowers the last of April, and in such profusion
as to conceal its yellowish-green foliage, and continues in bloom
for nearly a month, and is companion with the two following,
and, like them, from four to six inches high. It is known by
the common name of Moss Pink. It can be so rapidly increased
that it may be used to advantage for edgings, but requires some
care to keep it in order.
There are many improved varieties of this species, viz.,
white, purple, large pink, lilac with a red eye, &c.
142 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
Phlox stolonifera. — Creeping. — The plant puts forth suck-
ers or shoots near the surface of the earth, which take root,
something after the manner of the strawberry. Leaves ovate,
(egg-shaped,) brownish-green ; stem erect, bearing a few large
deep-red flowers, which begin to expand a few days later than
the preceding. A very lovely species and worthy of cultiva-
tion.
Phlox nivalis. — Snow-white. — The flowers are brilliant
snowy white, marked with orange in the centre, on the end of
the branches, in bunches from three to five, and make their
appearance from the tenth to the middle of May, and continue
until the first of June. If the autumn is mild, it will produce
a second crop, but not in such profusion. Leaves setaceous,
(bristly,) shining deep-green. This is the most tender, and is
generally more or less injured without a little protection, and it
is undoubtedly one of the most elegant of the family : not
common ; now lost from my collection.
Phlox divaricata. — Branches divaricate ; that is, spread out
so far from the stem, as to form more than a right angle with
it above. This beautiful species flowers the last of May, very
large, pale-blue, on lax decumbent stems, one foot high. Leaves
ovate lanceolate, (egg-shaped at the base, tapering ofT at the
point like the ancient lance.) This may be considered one of
the finest, but has not been so extensively disseminated as some
of the tribe.
There is a white, and other varieties of this Phlox.
CLASS II. FLOWERING IN JUNE AND JULY.
In describing this numerous and very ornamental branch of
the family, it will be necessary to cut loose from all botanical
distinctions, for the species have undergone such a transforma-
tion by hybridizing, that it will puzzle a botanist to trace their
parentage.
The two following are no doubt the parents, on one side, of
many of the improved sorts, as the habits and style, in many
respects, correspond.
PHLOX.
143
Phlox maculata. — The stem is dotted with dark spots, from
which circumstance it receives its generic name, maculata,
(spotted.) It is one of the most common sorts, and found orna-
menting almost every garden ; frequently known under the
name of Flora's bouquet. The flowers are so pretty, one might
readily imagine the fair goddess would not be indifferent to their
charms. It begins to show its purplish-red flowers the last of
May, which are crowded on an oblong spike, and continues
long in bloom ; if cut down immediately after flowering, a
second display may be expected in August or September.
Stems rough ; two feet high.
Phlox suaveolens. — Sweet-scented. — It has white, sweet-
scented flowers, arranged in the same manner as the last ; stem
without spots. Leaves ovate lanceolate, quite smooth. The
height and time of flowering the same as P. maculata, and by
some considered as only a variety of it. It is one of the most
delicate of the species, and, when grown with the last described,
makes a fine appearance.
Some of the florist's varieties partake of the character of the
two following : —
Phlox carnea. — Flesh-colored. — This delicate species com-
mences flowering the middle of June. After its first display it
continues to flower sparingly through the summer and autumn.
Leaves ciliated, (eyelash-haired,) lowest setaceous, upper one
linear lanceolate, (narrow lace-shape.) Branches from three to
five-flowered.
Phlox Listonia. — ln honor of Lady Liston. — A beautiful
species, with fine red flowers, in June ; a foot and a half high.
Foliage broader than in most species; radical leaves rhom-
boidal ; upper ones ovate lanceolate.
Some of the most improved early summer varieties are the
following : —
Phlox Van Houtteii is a superb variety, with a fine round
corolla, each segment being regularly and distinctly striped
with purplish-red, on white ground. Height, one and a half
foot. In flower the last of June.
144 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
P. picta. — White with red eye. One and a half foot high,
— last of June and July.
Phlox OBiL de lynx, — Lynx-eyed, — is a beautiful dwarf vari-
ety, one foot high, with white flowers and large deep-red eye ;
rather delicate in its habits.
Phlox Egyptiemie. — This has light lilac flowers shaded with
purple, about one and a half foot high, in June and July.
Phlox fleur -de-Marie. — Has fine white flowers, with a dark-
red eye ; very showy.
Phlox almerine. — Flowers blush, with a small red eye.
Phlox keermisina alba. — Flowers white, with purple eye,
arranged in loose pyramidal panicles of great beauty; in July
— two feet high.
Phlox meechantea speciosa. — Corolla white, beautifully tinted
with rose. Three feet high in July.
CLASS III. FLOWERING- THE LAST OF JULY, AUGUST AND SEP-
TEMBER.
Most of the Phloxes under this head are tall-growing sorts,
from three to four feet high, with their flowers in graceful py-
ramidal corymbs.
Phlox pyramidalis alba, and purpurea, P. acuminata, P.
paniculata, and other old sorts, now discarded, were proba-
bly the parents of the new varieties in this class, of which,
Phlox Breckii, raised by the writer, is considered one of the
very best late-flowering sorts cultivated. The flowers are pro-
duced in August and September, on stems four to six feet
high, on long pyramidal dense spikes. The corolla circular,
light-purple, with a white eye. The foliage, graceful, lance-
olate acuminate spatulate ; the upper leaves very much undu-
lated.
Phlox Charles. — A new white variety, with pink eye ; flow-
ers in pyramidal corymbs ; one and a half to two feet high in
July and August.
Phlox Wilderii. — A fine seedling, with deep-red flowers,
PHLOX. 145
raised by the writer ; corolla round and perfect ; stem branched ;
three feet high in August.
Phlox Mary Ann. — A superb new variety, with striped
flowers ; corolla five-shape ; the centre part of each segment is
of a clear pale-purple, while the margins are pure white ; in
dense flattish corymbs ; in July and August ; one and a half
foot high.
Phlox paniculata alba. — A fine variety, with pure white
flowers, arranged in pyramidal panicles; three feet high in
August.
Phlox nymphea alba. — A fine variety, with white flowers,
tinted with purple ; tube of the corolla purple ; flowers arv
ranged in dense spherical corymbs : three feet high ; in July
and August.
Phlox cor data grandiflora. — Corolla large, fine round
shape, purplish-pink, with white centre, in large flattish, dense,
terminal panicles ; four to five feet high ; in August.
Phlox decussata alba. — A fine white variety, with perfect
flowers in regular compact pyramidal corymbs ; three feet high ;
in August.
Phlox Lawrencii is a variety with white flowers ; a seedling
raised by W. E. Carter, late of the Botanic Garden, Cam-
bridge ; three to four feet high ; in August.
Mr. Carter has raised a number of fine seedlings, flowering
in August, viz. : — Phlox Frelinghuysen, with variegated flow-
ers ; and Phlox Henry Clay, with white flowers, finely penciled
with purple ; each about two to three feet high.
Phlox rosea superba is a variety with brilliant rose-colored
flowers.
Phlox undulata. — The margin of the leaves slightly undu-
lated ; lance oblong ; stem erect, smooth, three feet high ; the
latest species flowers in September, arid retains its beauty
long after the commencement of frosts, and lingers to the con-
fines of winter; red; many of the flowers turn white, which
gives its panicled corymbs or heads a variegated appearance.
13
146 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
To these might be added numerous other fine varieties, as
they are without number.
RAISING PHLOXES FROM SEED.
Some fine seedlings have appeared in my own garden within
the two last years, which have attracted considerable attention
at the Horticultural Rooms, on account of the largeness and
perfection of the flowers, the density of the spikes or corymbs,
and the colors. The last season, the first premium for the best
ten varieties was awarded to the writer; six of these were his
own seedlings, which competed with a number of stands, most-
ly of foreign origin, and that, too, of improved sorts.
Out of a large number, I have selected and numbered twenty
varieties, which I thought worthy of perpetuating, for their su-
periority for breeders. It is a fact, that seedlings are sure to
produce an abundance of seeds, while those varieties that have
long been propagated by cuttings or divisions of the root, soon
lose that power. It has proved, in my experience, that there
is an improvement in every generation of well selected seed-
lings. I have been accustomed to collect all the seedling
phloxes raised by my floral friends, and plant them in beds by
themselves : thus, I had three or four from my friend, S. Walk-
er, Esq., President of the Horticultural Society, some of Mr.
Richardson, of Dorchester, others from my old acquaintance,
W. E. Carter, late of the Botanic Garden, and a large number
of my own. From these the seed was scattered promiscuous-
ly, and the young plants were taken up and planted by them-
selves, and from a great number of young seedlings my selec-
tions were made. Among these are some white, some fine red,
two or three variegated ; one mottled, with a red eye ; and an-
other distinctly and regularly striped with a pale-purple on
white ground. Their parents being of the later sorts, these,
also, correspond in the time of flowering with them, being in
perfection about the first of August. I am looking for great
improvements in the next brood of seedlings from these new
sortR, and think I shall not be disappointed.
POLEMONIUM POTENTILLA . 147
POLEMONIUM.
Jacob's Ladder.
Polemonium cceruleum. — Blue-flowered. — This is one of the
old standard border flowers, and is known by the common name
of Jacob's Ladder, from its beautiful pinnately-cleft leaves,
(leaflets arranged on each side of a common petiole or leaf-
stem ;) its lively blue flowers, nodding, on the ends of the
branches. There is another variety with white flowers. Each
variety is worthy of a place in the flower department, being per-
fectly hardy and of the most easy cultivation ; flowers in June ;
two feet high.
POTENTILLA.
Potentilla, in allusion to its supposed potential virtue in
medicine.
This is a numerous genus, consisting of strawberry-like look-
ing plants, with mostly yellow flowers.
Potentilla atrosanguinea. — Dark blood-colored Potentilla.
— This is one of the finest species, with beautiful foliage, and
blood-colored flowers, from Nepal, one and a half foot high ;
in flower from May to September. Propagated from divisions
of the root, and from seed.
Pontentilla formosa. — Synon. Napalensis. — This is an-
other beautiful species from Nepal, with fine rose-colored flow-
ers, which are produced the greater part of the season.
Pontentilla splendens has yellow flowers, of not much beauty,
but the leaves are elegant, being silvered over with a silky
down, and interruptedly pinnate. Flowers dichotomous, in
corymbs ; from Nepal.
Pojitentilla grandiftora has fine large yellow flowers — a
native of Siberia.
Pontentilla russelliana is a splendid hybrid with scarlet
flowers.
148
BRECK S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
P. Hopwoodiana, with rose and scarlet flowers, is also beau-
tiful. Most of the species, which are numerous, are pretty, but
those named are the finest ; all stand the winter well ; they
succeed best in light soil.
PRIMULA.
Primrose.
This genus consists of beautiful dwarf Alpine plants, of
many species, which sport into elegant varieties, under the
cultivation of the florist. They are valuable on account of
their early appearance in the spring ; some of them succeeding
the Snowdrop, others keeping company with the vernal Phloxes
and other early flowers.
The Primula auricula is a florist flower of great beauty, but
has received but little attention in this country ; probably on
account of the severity of our winter and spring months, or
the great heat of summer, which is more destructive to the
auricula than the cold. The extremes of heat and cold ren-
der its cultivation difficult. The flower-stalk springs from
radical leaves, six or eight inches high, bearing a truss of from
five to seven flowers, which are of various rich colors, accord-
ing to the variety. These flowers are called pips, which
should be round, with a light-colored eye; the ground color,
when very dark blue, purple, or brown, edged with green, con-
trast finely with the eye, and are considered richer than those
varieties where the colors are lighter.
Primula polyanthus. — This is more hardy than the auricula,
and succeeds well with little care, provided it can have a cool
and sheltered spot, a rich and rather moist soil. They are
in flower all the month of May, and some of the varieties by
the middle of April. The flowers are produced on stems,
eight to twelve inches high, in trusses of eight or ten flowers,
or pips, and are of various rich colors. Brown, with yellow
eye, is very common, with a delicate edging of yellow ; also
PULMONARIA. 149
various combinations of crimson, yellow, sulphur, and dark-
brown, either plain or shaded. It is easily propagated by
dividing the roots after blooming.
Primula veris, — Cowslip, — is a native of Great Britain.
The flowers are produced in trusses, but are not so elegant
as those of the polyanthus, but look pretty in the border. The
flowers generally are of a pale-yellow, but there is a variety
with red flowers ; they are propagated the same as the poly-
anthus. There are many other pretty species and varieties,
some with double flowers. All may be introduced into the
garden, in cool, shady locations.
PULMONARIA.
Lungwort.
Pulmonaria derives its name, some say, from the speckled
appearance of the leaves, resembling diseased lungs ; but others
think that its name has arisen from the plant having been used
with success in pulmonary complaints ; whence, also, perhaps,
the English name, Lungwort.
Pulmonaria Virginica, — or Virginian Lungwort, — occurs
pretty commonly in the shady woods of Pennsylvania, and
most other of the southern and western States. Its flowers,
which appear in May, look like so many small, bright-blue,
pendulous funnels, internally open at the orifice, after the man-
ner of the genus, each springing out of a prismatic, pen-
tagonal, five-toothed calyx.
After flowering, the plant to appearance dies, as it is not
seen until the following spring ; propagated by divisions of the
root. This is one of the most elegant ornaments of the flower-
garden in May.
P. qfficinalis, — Medicinal Lungwort, — is a pretty dwarf
species, in bloom from April to June, with clusters of red and
bluish-purple flowers, with spotted leaves ; six inches high.
P. Sibirica and maritima are elegant perennials, greatly
13*
150 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
resembling each other, and considered hy some, as most proba-
bly, only varieties. They are among the most elegant orna-
ments of the flower-garden, in dry springs ; but they require
some care in keeping, unless in a soil almost entirely of sand.
PYRETHRUM.
Feverfew.
Pyrethrum parthenium plena, — or Double Feverfew, — is
an ornamental plant, with pure white flowers, from June to Sep-
tember ; two feet high. It is frequently kept in green-houses,
but stands out all winter with a little protection. It is raised
from cuttings, or by dividing the roots. When raised from
seed, most of the plants will be worthless, not much better
than weeds, as there is no beauty in the single flowers.
RANUNCULUS.
Buttercup.
There are a number of varieties of Buttercups, which are
found double, and are frequently introduced into the flower-
garden.
Ranunculus repens flore plena is a double variety; the roots
are creeping, and therefore the plant is rather troublesome.
The flowers are pretty ; a glossy yellow ; in bloom a number
of months.
JR. acris flore plena is a species and variety, with upright
stems ; two feet high, with bright-yellow double flowers, in
June and July.
JR. aconitifolius flore plena. — This beautiful plant has fine
double white flowers, in June ; one foot high ; for some reason
it is not much cultivated in this country. It goes by the name
of " Fair Maids of France."
RUDBECKIA SABBATIA SARRACEN1A. 151
RUDBECKIA.
This is a genus of North American plants, some of them
valuable for the border ; all are hardy, and easily propagated
by dividing the roots.
Rudbeckia fidgida has large, brilliant yellow flowers, with
a dark centre, or disk ; about two feet high ; continuing in
bloom all the months of July and August.
R. purpurea. — Purple Rudbeckia. — This plant grows from
three to four feet high. The disk of the flower is very rich,
appearing, in the sun, of a golden crimson ; the rays are purple,
and, in some of the varieties, quite long.
R. nudiflora. — This is a beautiful species; it grows three
feet high ; the stems branched, producing a long succession of
flowers, with long, conical, dark disks, and very long, wavy
rays, of a pure, clear yellow.
There are many other species, but mostly coarse-growing
plants.
SABBATIA.
This is a pretty genus of North American plants, not much
cultivated, but, if properly managed, would no doubt prove a
great acquisition.
Sabbatia chloiroides is found growing in Plymouth county, on
the margin of ponds ; it has large, showy pink flowers, in July.
There is also a variety with white flowers ; it is a biennial,
and must therefore be propagated from the seed, which should
be sown in moist ground, as soon as ripe, or early in the
spring.
SARRACENIA.
Side- Saddle Flower.
This very curious plant is found growing in our wet, boggy
meadows and swamps. It will succeed in any wet corner of the
152 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
garden, (if there is any such,) and it is well worthy a place, on
account of the singularity of the leaves, which are tubular and
hold water. The stigma of the flower resembles a woman's
pillion of olden time ; hence the common name.
SANGUINARIA.
Sloodroot.
From sanguis, blood. All the parts, on being wounded,
discharge a blood-colored fluid.
Sanguinaria canadensis. — This is a singular and very deli-
cate looking, indigenous plant, producing shining white flowers,
in April. It has a tuberous, fleshy root, and easily transferred
to the garden, where it shows off to advantage with the Crocus
and other flowers.
SAXIFRAGA.
Saxifrage.
An elegant and extensive genus of Alpine plants, which
have long been favorites in English gardens ; most of them
are dwarf plants, and suitable for rock-work ; but many species
are difficult to cultivate. There is a native species in flower
in May ; in great abundance about rocks and barren places,
with greenish-white flowers ; very fragrant ; six or eight inches
high.
Saxifraga crassifolia has broad, thick leaves, rising from the
crown of the plant, from which are thrown up stems one foot
high, with panicles of pink flowers, in May and June.
SEDTJM SOLIDAGO SPIR^A. 153
SEDUM.
Stone Crop.
Sedum, from sedere. — These plants, growing upon the bare
rock, look as if sitting upon it. The species are low succu-
lent, some of them pretty, others curious ; but none of them
remarkable in any way. Some look pretty on rock-work, and
others are frequently used for edgings to walks. The species
are very numerous.
SOLIDAGO.
Golden Rod.
This is an extensive family of native plants, some of them
showy, with dense spikes, or panicles of yellow flowers, in
August and September. A few of them look pretty in the
garden, and help to make up a variety.
SPIK^JA.
This genus affords numerous ornamental shrubs and herba-
ceous plants, some of them very desirable. Among the herba-
ceous are the following, which are all very hardy, and easily
propagated by dividing the roots.
Spircea fitipendula. — Dropwort. — A very elegant species,
with tuberous roots like the Peony. Flowers white ; the buds
shaded with pink ; in corymbs ; two feet high ; from June to
August. The foliage is beautiful.
S. filipendula plena. — Double Dropwort. — A very desirable
plant, with clusters of fine double white flowers, from June to
October. It is more dwarfish than the last; not more than one
foot high. The time to divide the tubers ofrfhese two varieties
is in August ; they will then flower strong, the next year.
154 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
S. ulmaria ple?io. — Double Meadow Sweet. — This is a
handsome border plant, producing proliferous corymbs of double
white flowers, on erect stems two feet high, in June and July.
A variety of this has variegated leaves.
S. lobata. — Lobe-leaved Spiraea. — A beautiful species, with
deep pink or red flowers, in proliferous corymbs, in June and
July ; stems two feet high.
S. palmata. — This is a magnificent species from the west,
growing to the height of five or six feet, with immense clusters
of red flowers, in July ; leaves palmate ; flowers in large pro-
liferous corymbs.
S. aruncus. — Goat's-beard. — Three or four feet high, with
white panicled spikes, in June and July ; leaves supra-decom-
pound.
S. Japonica. — Japan Spiraea. — A species more delicate
than the last ; the flowers arranged in the same way ; of a
purer white ; two feet high, in July and August.
These are some of the principal herbaceous Spirceas. All
succeed best in a strong, moist soil, and endure the hardest
winter without protection. For many beautiful shrubby spe-
cies, see SHRUBS.
STATICE.
Sea Lavender.
This is a very ornamental genus. The species are not com-
mon, and require a little care in cultivation. Statice speciosa
and tartarica are amomg the prettiest of hardy plants.
TRADESCANTIA.
Spiderwort.
All the species lire of the easiest culture, but not many of
them can be called beautiful.
TROLLIUS VALERIANA. 155
Tradescantia Virginica is a valuable border flower, on ac-
count of its continued succession of fine blue flowers, which it
produces every morning from May to September. It has long-,
grass-like foliage ; flowers on stems, one and a half foot high,
in clusters ; umbel-like. There is a variety with white, and
another with double reddish purple flowers.
TROLLIUS.
Globe Flower.
Trollius is derived from trol, or trollen, an old German word
signifying something round, in allusion to the globular form of
the flowers.
T. EuropcBus flowers in June and July. It has large lemon-
yellow globular blossoms, on stems two feet high.
T. Asiaticus has dark orange flowers; one foot high; in
June and July.
T. Americus is a dwarf indigenous species, with yellow
flowers, in May ; all flourish best in rich, moist soil. The two
first are desirable border flowers.
VALERIANA.
Valerian.
Valeriana phu, — Garden Valerian, — is a tall-growing
plant, three or four feet high, producing an abundance of
small, white, fragrant flowers, in May and June, in large
corymbs ; desirable on account of its pleasant odor.
V. pyrenaicum, — Heart-leaved, — is sometimes seen in flower-
gardens; three feet high, with small pink flowers in corymbs,
in May and June. The species are all ornamental border
plants, of easy culture, in common earth, preferring moist and
shady places. •
156 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
VERONICA.
Speedwell.
An extensive family, most of the species being ornamental
plants, the taller growing sorts suitable for the borders, and
those of a more dwarfish habit for the rockery. The flowers
are produced in spire-like spikes, or racemes, and are generally
blue ; but some few species are white, and others pink.
V. Virginicum is a tall, strong-growing species, four or five
feet high, with white flowers in clustered spikes ; in July and
August ; suitable for the shrubbery.
V. Sibirica has blue flowers, in spikes, in July and August ;
two feet high.
V. speciosa is a dwarf species, with brilliant blue flowers, in
spikes ; June and July.
V. azurea is two or three feet high, with fine sky-blue
flowers.
V. spicata is about one foot high, with fine blue flowers.
There are as many as fifty species, all easily cultivated in
almost any soil ; propagated by dividing the roots.
VINCA.
Periwinkle.
Some of the genus are hardy evergreen trailing plants, val-
uable for their early and long-continued flowering, flourishing
under the shade and drip of trees. The most common hardy
species are Vinca major and V. minor, with a number of varie-
ties ; flowers generally blue. It is best to give a little protec-
tion in winter.
VIOLA. 157
VIOLA.
Violet.
" Violets, sweet tenants of the shade,
In purple's richest pride arrayed,
Your errand here fulfil ;
Go bid the artist's simple stain
Your lustre imitate in vain,
And match your Maker's skill."
This is an extensive genus of plants, of dwarf habits, suita-
ble for the border or rock-work. There are many indigenous
species which flourish well in the garden, and will repay the
trouble of collecting them from the woods, meadows, and pas-
tures.
Viola odorata, — or the Sweet-scented Violet, — should not be
wanting in any collection of plants, on account of its fragrance
and early appearance. A single flower will perfume a large
room. The flowers appear in April, and continue through
May. There are the single white and single blue, and the
double blue and white varieties ; the double sorts are the most
desirable ; they succeed best in a shady, sheltered place, and
are rapidly multiplied by divisions of the plant.
Viola tricoloi'. — Pansy; Lady's Delight. — The Heart's
Ease, or Pansy, is a general favorite, — an old acquaintance
with every one who has had anything to "do with a flower-gar-
den. It begins to open its modest but lively flowers as soon as
the snow clears off in the spring, and continues to enliven the
garden till the snow comes again. The flowers are in the
greatest perfection in May and June. The burning sun of
summer is unfavorable for their greatest beauty; but in autumn
they are fine again. The Pansy is properly a biennial, but can
be perpetuated by cuttings or divisions of the root.
Viola grandijlora is an improvement of V. tricolor, or on a
larger scale, and this has now become a florist's flower. The
following directions for its cultivation are from the Gardener's
Chronicle : —
14
158 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
" I know of no plant so easy to cultivate, and at the same
time so difficult to keep from year to year, as the Pansy. It
may be raised from seeds and bloomed in a few months, and
an endless variety of color, marking, and texture, may thus be
produced. Choice kinds, either selected from the seed-beds or
procured from the florists, are seldom bloomed more than once,
unless by some expert amateur, or in some favorable locality.
In winter, the Pansy is extremely liable to damp off, although
protected in frames ; and we all know, to our mortification, the
ill effect of a summer's sun on it. It is scarcely possible to
point to another tribe of plants so peculiarly the amateur's as
this, or one that puzzles him to cultivate more. The following
hints may assist him.
" Seeds sown in August, in the open border, will come up
readily in a few weeks. The seeds should be slightly covered
with fine soil, if covered at all, as half the seeds sown rot in
the ground, from being covered too deeply. As soon as they
expand the second set of leaves, they should be planted out
into beds, in lines, from eight to ten inches asunder. If the
seed has been carefully saved from good kinds, an interesting
display will be the result ; and the raising of new varieties is
a labor of peculiar interest. As spring advances, the plants so
treated will commence flowering. The next point will be to
select those which possess good qualities, with a view to per-
petuate them. There are many singular and pleasing varie-
ties that do not come within the arbitrary rules* by which florist's
flowers are judged, which nevertheless are worth retaining for
common border decoration ; but if a rigid adherence to these
rules is determined upon, then the flowers must be as nearly
round as possible, expanding their petals flatly; crumpled
petals, with ragged edges, are points that will justify their
being cast aside. Round flowers, with flat petals, must also
have firmness of texture to recommend them ; a flimsy flower
in the fancy, although possessing other properties, is univer-
sally discarded. The eye should be concentrated, and not
starry ; the colors soft and clearly defined. These instructions
YUCCA. 159
will enable the amateur to select the right kinds from his seed-
ling beds. As soon as he has determined upon those worth
retaining, propagation should be commenced, and this is a sim-
ple matter. Cuttings taken off at the second and third joints
will root readily, placed behind a hedge, or wall, on the north
side, without any protection whatever. Insert them two inches
apart, and one inch deep, in soil of a light sandy texture, and
they will root in a few weeks. Take care that all damp leaves
are removed as soon as they appear.
" To produce a bed of choice Pansies, select a north aspect,
with a cool bottom. Soil of medium texture, and moderately
enriched, should be preferred for the production of large flowers.
Keep the soil frequently stirred around them, and be careful
that the border is free from wireworm. If the plants are put
out in September, they will be established before winter ; and I
have frequently found that plants so treated, get through the
winter quite as well as those coddled in frames. As their
propagation is easy, depend exclusively upon young plants for
the following season's bloom. Seeds should only be saved
from beds of selected flowers possessing the best qualities ; for
it is only by following this up, that improved kinds to any
extent can be obtained; and, as seed is readily produced, it is
not worth while saving that from doubtful or indifferent sorts."
YUCCA.
Jldam's Needle.
This is an ornamental genus of plants, mostly natives of the
southern States and South America. Some of them succeed
well in the open ground in the northern States, and form a
pleasing contrast with other plants, on account of the peculiar-
ity of their foliage, which resembles the palm, or aloe. The
leaves are sharp-pointed, stiff, and rigid ; and, in some of the
species, the edges of the leaf are margined with long threads.
Yucca filimentosa, or Adam's Thread, is one of the most
160 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
hardy sorts. It is called Thready Yucca, from the long threads
that hang from the leaves. The flower-stem grows to the height
of five or six feet, and nearly the whole of it is covered with
large, bell-shaped, white flowers, sitting close ; all the species
are rather shy flowerers ; in August and September.
Y. gloriosa and superba are two splendid species, producing
an immense number of their fine bell-flowers on their tall stems.
The foliage of all the species is evergreen, and they closely re-
semble each other. The severity of our winters often blackens
the foliage ; to prevent this, the leaves should be gathered up
and tied together, and covered with straw. Propagated from
suckers.
DESCRIPTIVE LIST OF ANNUAL FLOWERS, WITH DIRECTIONS
FOR THEIR CULTIVATION.
The earth, all light and loveliness, in summer's golden hours,
Smiles in her bridal vesture clad, and crowned with festal flowers,
So radiantly beautiful, so like to heaven above,
We scarce can deem more fair that world of perfect bliss and love.1
AGERATUM.
Ageratum Mexicanum. — Mexican Ageratum. — A half-
hardy annual, with light-blue compound flowers, in July and
August ; about one and a half foot high ; very pretty, but not
remarkable for beauty.
ADONIS.
Adonis autumnalis is a hardy annual ; the seeds sown in
the spring will flower in September. If sown in September,
they will flower the June following. The foliage is handsome ;
the flowers blood-red ; one to two feet high.
ALYSSUM.
Alyssum maritinum. — Sweet Alyssum. — This is a desira-
ble hardy annual, flowering from June to November; one foot
high ; flowers white, in long racemes, which continually extend
themselves through the season, producing flowers until killed
by hard frosts. This produces a fine effect when planted in
masses. The plants should not be planted nearer than one
foot from each other.
14*
162 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
ARGEMONE.
Argemom grandiftora is the most showy of the genus ; a
native of Mexico. Its large flowers, with delicate white petals
and numerous yellow stamens, make a splendid appearance,
and we think much superior to
A. ockroleuca, with pale-yellow flowers. The leaves, cap-
sules, and the whole plant, are armed with formidable spines,
and having once had the hands or any part of the body come
in contact with them, the plant will be forever after, viewed
with feelings far from those of pleasure.
A. barclayana is equal to it, in its powers of annoyance, but
its more showy, brilliant yellow flowers make amends, in some
measure, for its repulsive appearance.
The roots of the Argemone, if taken up and kept in pots, in
a frame or cellar, will flower much stronger the next year than
seedlings.
ALONSOA.
Beautiful green-house plants, but flower finely in the open
ground as annuals.
Alonsoa incisifolia. — Nettle-leaved Alonsoa. — The flowers
of all the species are a rich scarlet, which are produced all the
season. This species has nettle-shaped but delicate leaves;
one to two feet high. The seed may be sown the last of
May, in the open ground, or in the hot-bed, in April.
A. grandiftora has larger flowers, but very much like the
last.
AMARANTHUS.
Amaranthus tricolor. — This is a tender annual, — an old
favorite of the flower-garden, — the chief beauty of which con-
sists in its variegated leaves. Miller, in ancient times, says,
" There is not a handsomer plant than this, in its full lustre."
AMARANTHUS. 163
Gerarde thus speaks of it : —
" It farre exceedeth my skill to describe the beauty and
excellencie of this rare plant, called Floramor ; and I thinke
the pensil of the most curious painter will be at a stay, when
he shall come to set it downe in his lively colours. But to
colour it after my best manner, this I say, Floramor hath a
thicke, knobby root, whereon do grow many threddie strings ;
from which ariseth a thicke stalke, but tender and soft, which
beginneth to divide itself into sundry branches at the ground,
and so vpward, whereupon doth grow many leaves, wherein
does consist his beauty : for in few words, euerie leafe resem-
bleth in colour the most faire and beautifull feather of a Parot,
especially those feathers that are mixed with most sundry col-
ours, as a stripe of red, and a line of yellow, a dash of white,
and a rib of green colour, which I cannot with words set forth,
such are the sundry mixture of colours that Nature hath be-
stowed, in her greatest jolitie, vpon this floure. The floure
doth grow betweene the footstalks of those leaves and the body
of the stalk or trunk, base, and of no moment in respect of the
leaves, being as it were little chaffie husks of an ouerworne
tawny colour ; the seed is black, and shining like burnished
home."
A. hypochondriacus. — Prince's Feather. — This is a hardy
annual, well known, four or five feet high, with numerous
heads of purplish-crimson flowers, suitable for the shrubbery.
A. superbus is an improved variety of the last ; flowers dark
red ; three to four feet high ; from June to September.
A. caudatus. — Love-lies-bleeding. — This is also a well-
known hardy annual, from three to four feet high, with blood-
red flowers, which hang in pendant spikes, and, at a little dis-
tance, look like streams of blood ; in July and August. It is
sometimes called, in France, " Discipline des religieuses" —
the Nun's Whipping-rope.
There is another variety, with straw-colored flowers, but it is
too mean-looking for the flower-garden.
164 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
AMMOBIUM.
Ammobium alatum. — Winged Ammobium. — This is a very
pretty half-hardy annual, with composite white flowers, or with
white, dry, involuchral scales, like some of the everlastings.
The flowers, when gathered before they fully mature, retain
their shape and brightness, and are fit companions for the
Globe Amaranths, Immortal Flower, &c., for winter orna-
ments. It grows two feet hrgh ; in flower from June to Octo-
ber. The stems have a curious winged attachment their
whole length.
ANAGALLIS.
•
Anagallis Indica. — Indian Anagallis. — A dwarf trailing
plant, with blue flowers, in July and August.
ASTER CHINENIS.
NOW CALLISTEMME HOETENSIS.
China Jlster.
The Double China Aster, now known as the German Aster,
has, within a few years, been very much improved and per-
fected by the German florists, and others, so that it is hardly to
be recognized as the same flower as the old China Aster of the
flower-garden. The varieties are now very numerous, and
possess exceeding beauty, some of them being almost as large
as a small Dahlia, and much more graceful. The full-quilled
varieties are the most highly esteemed, having a hemispherical
shape, either a pure white, clear blue, purple, rose, or deep red ;
or beautifully mottled, striped, or edged, with those colors, or
having a red or blue centre. They are also of various habits ;
some dwarf, others taller, some spreading, and others growing
erect and very much branched. Seeds, sown in the fall of the
AVENA BARTONIA. 165
year, produce early flowers ; but they come too early in bloom,
and are not so perfect as those coming into flower about the
first of September.
My practice is to sow the seeds the last of May, in patches,
and transplant to a bed well prepared the last of June. The
plants should stand a foot apart ; but there being some uncer-
tainty as to the character of the flower, although the seed may
have been the very best, I put out two or three plants near
each other, and when they begin to flower, cut out those that
are inferior, and leave those only that are perfect. In this way
alone can the character of the flower be kept up. Otherwise,
they will soon degenerate into inferior flowers.
AVENA.
Avena steralis, — or Animated Oat, — is sometimes grown as
an object of curiosity, on account of its singular hygrometrical
properties. After the seeds have fallen off, their strong beard
is so sensible of alternation in the atmosphere as to keep them
in apparently spontaneous motion, when they resemble some
grotesque insect crawling upon the ground.
BARTONIA.
Bartonia aurea. — Golden-flowered. — A very pretty flow-
ering annual, the flower-stem rising a foot high. The plant
produces a profusion of showy flowers, of a fine golden-yellow
color. Each blossom is about two inches and a half across.
The plant is a native of California. It delights in a sheltered,
sunny situation, and it is to be grown in a rich soil, where it
will bloom profusely. The plant requires to be raised as a
frame annual, and to be planted in the border in May.
166 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
BROWALLIA.
Browallia data. — Blue Amethyst. — A tender annual from
Peru, named by Linnaeus in honor of John Browallius. It
grows one and a half foot high, and bears an abundance of
small bright-blue flowers, from July to September. There is
a variety with white flowers.
To have it in perfection, it should be sown in hot-beds, and
transplanted into the open ground the first of June. The
plants are very minute when they first make their appearance,
and, unless protected from the sun, are liable to be destroyed.
In the open ground, it should be sown about the 10th of May.
BRIZA.
Quaking Grass.
Briza, from a Greek word, to balance, the spikelets being
continually in a state of suspension, or balance, in the air. It
is a curious genus.
B. maxima is sometimes cultivated as a border flower ; the
spikes of the grass are elegant, when dried, and help to make
up a bouquet of immortal flowers.
BRACHYCOME.
Brachycome iberidifolia. — Swan Daisy. — A beautiful hardy
annual, of dwarf habit, six or eight inches high ; in bloom
from July to September. Flowers of various shades of white,
pink, or blue, suitable to be grown in masses or beds ; foliage
delicate.
CACCALIA.
Caccalia coccinnea. — Scarlet Tassel-flower. — A neat annual,
of easy culture, one and a half foot high, with scarlet tassel-
shaped flowers, from July to September. Sow it the first of
May.
CALENDULA CALANDRINIA CALAMPELIS. 167
CALENDULA.
Calendula. — So named because it may be found in flower
during the calends of each month, or, which is the same thing,
during every month of the year. This cannot be the case in
our climate.
Calendula officinalis. — Pot Marigold. — A hardy annual,
common to the gardens time out of mind, and formerly much
used in soups and broths. Flowers deep orange, and con-
tinue all the season. Some of the double vanities are very
handsome.
CALANDRINIA.
Calandrinia grandiflora. — Great-flowering. — This is a half-
hardy annual; grows two feet high ; blooms from June to Octo-
ber. It is a fine plant for growing in masses. When the fine,
rosy lilac flowers of this very beautiful plant are fully ex-
panded, being produced in vast profusion, and continuing for
so long time in bloom, they make a pleasing appearance, and
never fail to give ample satisfaction. To have it in its greatest
perfection, the seed should be planted in pots, and placed in a
hot-bed early in the spring. In June the plants should be turned
into the ground. The soil should be a rich sandy loam.
Calandrinia discolor is in habit very much like the other ; the
foliage is purple on the under side ; it requires the same treat-
ment.
CALAMPELIS.
FOKMEBLY ECREMOCARPUS.
Calampelis scaber. — Rough-podded Calampelis. — This is
a beautiful climber, a perennial, but flowers the first year ;
not sufficiently hardy to stand our winters. Its flowers are
produced in panicles or racemes, and are of a bright orange
color; it flowers profusely the latter part of summer. It
168 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
will be necessary to plant the seeds in a hot-bed early in the
spring, and when the plants have five or six leaves they
should be transplanted into pots, and turned into the ground
in June. The seeds are difficult to vegetate.
CALLIOPSIS.
Calliopsis tinctoria. — Elegant Coreopsis. — This is a well-
known hardy^nnual, formerly called Coreopsis tinctoria. The
flowers are large and rich, having a dark crimson-brown
centre with yellow rays. The only difficulty with the plant is
that it makes itself too common, sowing itself over gardens,
and making its appearance where it is not wanted. In flower
June and July.
Calliopsis tinctoria — var. atropurpurea. — Dyeing Calli-
opsis, dark-flowered variety. — This variety of the well known
and much admired Coreopsis tinctoria, is very superior to that
species. The flowers are about the size of C. tinctoria; the
centre is yellow, surrounded by a circle of dark purple, beyond
which, to the extremity of the petals, is of a fine red scarlet
color; some of the flowers are destitute of the yellow centre.
It is a splendid flowering annual, and deserves a place in every
flower-garden ; we have grown it in masses, and it produces a
fine show.
CARDIOSPERMUM.
Cardiospermum halicacabum. — Balloon Vine, or Love in a
Puff. — A half-hardy annual from the West Indies ; a creeper.
The seed should be sown between the first and tenth of May,
and the plant supported with brush four to six feet high.
The plant is remarkable for its inflated membranous capsule,
from which it is sometimes called Balloon Vine, or Love in a
Puff. The flowers are white and green, without any claim to
beauty.
CAMPANULA CANNA. 169
CAMPANULA.
Campanula speculum. — Venus' Looking-glass. — An annual
border flower, of some beauty, very hardy ; having it once in the
ground, it will sow itself; the young plants may be taken up
in the spring and planted where to remain, and should be set
one foot from each other ; or sow the seed very early in the
spring. One foot high, very branching, producing a long suc-
cession of blue flowers, which close at the approach of rain,
and at evening. Speculum, because the form of the corolla
resembles a little round, elegant mirror (speculum) ; whence it
is called Venus' Looking-glass.
Campanula Loreyi. — Lorey's Bell-flower. — A hardy annual,
of easy culture, thriving in almost any kind of soil, sowing
itself, so that an abundance of plants are found the following
year. It is dwarfish in its habits, and highly ornamental. It
has large expanded blossoms, of a deep blue or white, which
continue to be produced in succession through the summer
and autumn months.
CANNA.
Indian Shot.
The genus are mostly tropical plants, with elegant foliage
from four to eight feet high.
Canna Indica, — or Indian Shot Plant. — This is the most
common species, and succeeds well as an annual if the plants
are started in a hot-bed. If the seeds are .planted in pots, and
plunged in the bed when it has its greatest heat, the plants
will soon appear ; and, if turned into the ground in June, will
make large plants. In the green-house it is a perennial.
This is desirable, not only for the beauty of its spikes of
scarlet flowers, but also for its elegant foliage, and particularly
to the botanist, as it belongs to the small class Monandria, (one
stamen,) which in this region furnishes but few examples.
15
170 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
There are many species in large collections, all handsome. It
becomes a large plant before autumn, five or six feet high, with
deep-green leaves, three feet long, and six inches in width ;
perfecting seed, which is round, black, and hard, having the
appearance of large shot. It belongs to the natural order,
Cannace, mostly tropical plants.
CELOSIA.
Cockscomb.
Celosia cristata is common in most gardens. The following
account is inserted, to give some idea of what may be done by
artificial means. " Mr. Knight, in October, 1820, sent to the
London Horticultural Society a Cockscomb, the flower of which
measured eighteen inches in width and seven in height, from
the top of the stalk ; it was thick and full, and of a most
intense purple-red. To produce this, the great object was to
retard the protrusion of the flower-stalk, that it might become
of great strength. The compost employed was of the most
nutritive and stimulating kind, consisting of one part of unfer-
mented horse-dung, fresh from the stable, and without litter,
one part of burnt turf, one part of decayed leaves, and two
parts of green turf, the latter being in lumps of about an inch
in diameter, in order to keep the mass so hollow that the
water might escape and the air enter. The seeds were sown
in the spring, rather late, and the plants put first into pots of
four inches diameter, and then transplanted to others a foot in
diameter ; the object being not to compress the roots, as that
has a tendency to accelerate the flowering of all vegetables.
The plants were placed within a few inches of the glass, in a
heat of from 70° to 100° ; they were watered with pigeon-dung
water, and due attention paid to remove the side branches when
very young, so as to produce one strong head or flower."
The color of the scarlet varieties is highly brilliant. None
of the other colors are so rich. The yellows are generally rather
dull — some of them dirty-looking. The scarlets and crimsons
CENTAUREA CHRISEIS. 171
are the only colors that look well. There are the tall and
dwarf varieties, and some that are somewhat branching ; but
these last should be rejected. To produce fine combs the soil
cannot be made too rich ; the plants must also be forwarded in
a hot-bed. Very showy plants can be raised by sowing the
seed in the open ground in May, but they cannot be raised in
perfection.
CENTAUREA.
Centaur ea Americana. — American Centaurea. — A hand-
some hardy annual, discovered by Nuttall, on the alluvial soil
of the Arkansas and Red rivers, two or three feet high, with
large purplish-pink flowers in August. It is of easy culture,
and should be sown early in April.
Centaurea cyanus, — Blue Bottle, — is a common weed, in
cornfields, on gravelly soils, throughout Europe, and also a
popular border annual. The flower, originally blue, in gardens
present varieties with white, pink, purple and parti-colored
rays. The time of sowing early in April.
Centaurea moschata pnrpurea — var. alba. — Purple Sweet
Sultan, White do. — Handsome border annuals, of easy cul-
ture, natives of Persia, two feet high, with fragrant flowers
from July to September. Sow in April.
Centaurea suaveolens. — Yellow Sweet Sultan. — A hand-
some annual from the Levant, one and a half foot high, with
lively, rich yellow flowers from July to September. Sow first
of May.
Centaurea benedicta. — Blessed Thistle. — A hardy annual
from Spain, two feet high, with yellow flowers from July to
September. Sow last of April.
CHRISEIS.
California Poppy.
Chriseis Calif arnica. — Formerly Eschsholtzia. — Grows two
feet high ; blooms from June to September. Flowers brilliant
172 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
shining yellow. Scarcely any plant produces a greater degree
of splendor than this ; when the full sun is upon it, it makes a
complete blaze of color. It is a most suitabls plant for pro-
ducing a distant effect. When it is planted out in a bed, it
requires a considerable number of sticks for support, or the
weak branches will be liable to lie close to the ground, and
then the bloom is not so fine. If planted in single patches,
they should have several sticks placed round, and a string
fastened, so as to keep the flower-stalks tolerably erect ; by this
attention a neat and handsome effect will be given. I adopt
the use of cross-strings, as well as a circular one, by which
means I have the shoots regularly disposed.
Chriseis crocea. — Saffron-colored Californian Poppy. — The
principal difference between this and the variety now well
known here, is in the color — this being a dark, bright saffron-
color ; the botanical difference is, that in this the point of the
calyx is longer, and the apex or end of the peduncle (flower-
stem) is more expanded. It is, like the other, a hardy annual
or biennial.
CHRYSANTHEMUM.
Chrysanthemum coronaria. — Garden Chrysanthemum. —
Handsome hardy annuals, one variety with white, and another
with yellow flowers ; two feet or more high; in bloom from July
to October. Sow the seed in April. The double varieties
alone are worth cultivation. The fine double varieties are
propagated by cutting.
Chrysanthemum cavinatum, or tricolor. — Tricolored Chrysan-
themum. — A hardy annual from Barbary, one and a half or two
feet high, in flower from July to October. Disk of the flower
purplish-brown, inner circle of the rays yellow, margined with
white ; very pretty.
COIX.
Coix lachryma. — Job's Tear. — A kind of tropical grass
from the East Indies. It is called Job's Tear on account of the
C1.ARKIA. 173
appearance of its shiny, pearly fruit, which, when suspended
on its slender pedicels, resembles in no inconsiderable degree a
falling tear. The plant is about two or three feet high, a ten-
der annual, and has some resemblance to Indian corn in the
stalks and leaves. Cultivated for its singular fruit. The
flowers are destitute of beauty.
CLAKKI A.
Clarkia pulchella. — Beautiful Clarkia. — This is a hardy
annual, of great beauty, discovered by Captain Clark, in his
expedition, with Captain Lewis, to the Columbia River. It is
a native of the Rocky Mountains.
Plants from seed sown in August or September flower
much stronger than when sown in the spring, but succeed very
well when planted in April or early in May. The soil should
not be over rich or moist, as they frequently die very suddenly
in such a location. In a good, sound loam, rather light, it
flourishes best. The flowers are light-purple ; plants one foot
high ; in bloom from June to September.
There is a variety with pure white flowers. All the varie-
ties and species, when grown in large masses, are very orna-
mental.
* C. elegans, — Elegant Clarkia, — and its varieties, are
also hardy annuals, of great beauty, requiring the same treat-
ment as C. pulchella; from one foot to eighteen inches high;
in flower at the same time.
C. rhomboidea. — Entire-petalled. — Synonym. C. gau-
roides. — It is an annual, growing about two feet high. The
flowers are an inch across, purple and white near the bottom
of each petal, spotted with purple. It much more resembles
C. elegans than C. pulchella. Mr. Douglas has left some
remarks on another species in California, closely allied to C.
rJiomboidea, viz., C. unguiculata.
15*
174 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
CLINTONIA.
Clintonia elegans. — Elegant Clintonia. — A beautiful ten-
der annual, with delicate foliage, and rich blue flowers in great
profusion ; six inches high ; in July and August.
C. pulchella. — Pretty Clintonia. — A native of California.
It is a pretty flowering tender annual, of very humble growth,
only rising a few inches high. The flowers are rather larger
than C. elegans, blue, with a broad white spot at the centre,
stained with a rich yellow. The flower is about half an inch
across. Its delicacy of growth will prevent its spreading
rapidly through the country.
The Clintonias, when grown in pots in the green-house, are
very beautiful.
CLEOME.
This is an elegant tribe of plants, and very curious in their
structure. The petals range themselves on the upper side, and
the stamens and pistil are protruded a considerable length on
slender filaments, forming beautiful airy groups.
Cleome grandiflora is one of the most showy of the genus.
It is easily raised from seed, when planted in the open ground,
in April or May, and blooms abundantly from July to Septem*
ber ; grows from three to four feet high. Its spikes, continually
increasing in length, are always surmounted with a crest of
beautiful buds and flowers, which are of a pale pink-purple.
It is beautiful in the garden, but withers very quickly when cut.
C. pentaphylla. — This is also a handsome annual, of the
same habit of the last ; about two or three feet high ; the flow-
ers pure white ; the odor of the plant is most offensive.
C. spinosa is a spiny plant, which grows about four feet
high, and bears a spike of beautiful white (sometimes pinkish)
flowers. All the species flourish in any common garden soil.
However beautiful and curious these plants may be, and
desirable for show, they are repulsive to the smell and unpleas-
ant to the touch, and, therefore, will not be favorites.
COB.E COLLOMIA COLLINSIA. 1 75
COB^E.
Codes scandens. — Mexican Climbing Cobss. — This is the
most rapid green-house plant known, having been found to
grow two hundred feet in one summer, in a conservatory. It
is a perennial, but will not stand the winter, and, unless culti-
vated in a green-house, is classed with tender annuals. It
flourishes well in the open air, especially if it is first started in
a hot-bed, in a pot, and turned into the ground in June. I
have found it to continue blooming after a number of moderate
frosts. The flowers are large, purple, and bell-shaped. The
foliage is handsome, and the tendrils, which are fine and silky,
will attach themselves to anything within reach, even a cobweb.
If located in a warm place, it will cover a large space before it
is destroyed by the frost. It can be raised by cuttings, but is
rather difficult to keep through the winter.
COLLOMIA.
Collomia coccinnea. — A very lively flower, growing in heads of
bright carmine red, rather desirable and early. The seeds
have, like some of the Salvias, the curious property of becom-
ing invested with vegetable mucus when moistened with
water.
COLLINSIA.
Collinsia bicolor. — Two-colored Collinsia. — A beautiful
hardy annual, with white and light-purple flowers, which are
numerous and pretty in June and July ; one foot high.
C. grandiflora. — Large-flowering Collinsia. — This is
another beautiful species, with large flowers, blue and purple ;
flowering at the same time, and about the same height, but
176 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
more spreading. Both species are suitable to be planted in
masses. Foliage delicate.
COMMELINA.
Commelina ccelestis. — Sky-blue Comrnelina. — Tender an-
nual, or perennial if the roots are taken up and housed. The
splendid blue flowers of this plant cannot be excelled, and its
profusion of blossoms renders it deserving of cultivation in
every flower-garden. The plant blooms from the middle of
June to October. The roots are tuberous, and keep well
through winter, if taken up after the blooming season, and pre-
served like Dahlia roots. Plants from the old roots grow,
in good soil, from two to three feet high ; those from seeds
reach only from one to two feet. The following is the mode
of management I have practised : — I fix upon a circular bed,
eight feet in diameter, and in the first week in May I plant
four feet of the centre with the old roots, placing the crowns
just under the surface of the soil. The outer portion of the
bed I plant with spring-sown plants, that have been raised in
pots placed in a frame. Both the roots and plants should be
planted about six inches apart. Thus, the centre of the bed
being much higher than the outer part, the appearance is that
of a splendid blue cone of flowers, scarcely to be excelled in
beauty. Seeds are produced in abundance, and may be
obtained of seedsmen at a small cost.
COREOPSIS.
Coreopsis Drummondii. — Drummond Coreopsis. — A very
showy hardy annual, with large yellow flowers, suitable for
growing in masses, as it continues in bloom all the season.
One foot high.
C. tinctoria will be found under the head of Calliopsis.
CONVOLVULUS CREPIS DATURA. 177
CONVOLVULUS.
*
Morning Glory.
Convolvulus minor. — Dwarf Convolvulus. — A beautiful
hardy annual, easily cultivated, affording a large mass of
beauty from July to October. The plant spreads out much in
every direction from the centre, so that a bed of them, with
the plants two feet distant from each other, will interlock.
It is not exceeded in elegance by any plant, when profusely
covered with blue and yellow flowers, which open in the morn-
ing, and continue the greater part of the day, if the sun is not
powerfully hot, in which case they often fade by noon. The
seed should be sown in April.
C. major. — Morning Glory. — A well-known annual, of
easy culture, and suitable for covering arbors or shading win-
dows, consisting of many varieties, as white, rose, purple, and
striped.
CREPIS.
Crepis barbata. — Purple-eyed Crepis. — The Purple-eyed
Crepis is an uncommonly hardy and beautiful annual, of the
easiest culture. Sown in masses, and the plants thinned out
to eighteen inches distance, it makes a splendid appearance.
It begins to flower the first of July, and continues, till October,
covered with beautiful flowers, the rays of a light yellow, finely
contrasted with the brilliant purple-brown of the centre.
DATURA.
Thorn Jlpple Zpple of Peru.
Datura, tatnla, ferox quercifolia. — The first of these is the
common weed called the Apple of Peru ; ferox resembles it in
178 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
growth, but the flower is pure white ; querdfolia we think the
handsomest flower of either species ; it is larger than tatula,
measuring five inches across the mouth, white, the nerves of a
fine pink, shaded with a dull purple. The fruit is contained
in a smooth capsule, and the leaf is somewhat like the oak,
(quercus,) whence its name. The manner of growth is very
elegant ; and as each succeeding blossom burst through its fine
calyx, we thought it more beautiful than its predecessor. We
can truly recommend this as an ornament to the garden.
D. stramonium, double purple, is also a very desirable flower.
DELPHINIUM.
Larkspur.
The annual Larkspurs are familiar to almost every one.
Some of the species and varieties are among the most common
ornaments of the garden. They are all very hardy, and
flower stronger when self-sown in summer, or planted in beds,
or in the border, in August or September. There are two dis-
tinct species in common cultivation, differing essentially in
their habits.
Delphinium consolida. — Branching Larkspur. — This va-
riety grows from two to three feet high, producing its flowers
in spikes, which are continually pushing out from the main
stem and branches, giving an abundance of bloom through the
season. Flowers blue, white, pink, and variegated. The double
varieties are the most desirable. Masses of the different sorts
appear to great advantage.
D. ajacis. — Dwarf Rocket Larkspur. — The double varieties
of this species are among the most showy ornaments of the
flower-garden, when properly grown.
A bed of the double varieties, consisting of white, pearl
color, lilac, pink, light and dark purple, is equal in beauty to
a bed of fine Hyacinths. Autumn-sown plants will grow from
DIANTHUS DIDISCUS DOLICHOS EUTOCA. 179
one and a half to two feet high. When grown in a rich, stiff
soil, the Eocket Larkspur must always be considered the
greatest summer ornament of the garden. The seed should be
sown in beds where it is to remain, as it does not succeed well
when transplanted. The plants should be thinned out so as to
stand six inches apart.
DIANTHUS.
Dianthus Chinensis. — Indian Pink. See Dianthus, page 111.
DIDISCUS.
Didiscus carulea. — Sky-blue Didiscus. — This is an ele-
gant annual. The plant is very much branched, producing its
fine blue flowers in numerous umbels, or hemispherical heads,
of the size and shape of a large quilled Aster. Two feet high ;
in July and August. Sow the seed in the open ground in
May. Plants forwarded in a frame will begin to flower in June.
DOLICHOS.
Dolickos labbab. — Purple Hyacinth Bean. — A fine, tender
annual climber, growing from eight to fifteen feet in a season.
Treatment very much like the common bean. Flowers in clus-
tered spikes. There is a variety with white flowers.
EUTOCA.
Eutoca viscida. — Clammy Eutoca. — The whole herbage is
of a dull green, copiously clothed with glandular viscid hairs.
The glands of a soot-black ; stem about one foot high. When
180 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
in blossom, few plants possess greater attractions, from the
extreme brilliancy of the flowers, which are of the deepest azure-
blue. It is a hardy annual, and easily raised from seed. In
bloom most of the season.
E. divaricata. — Straggling Eutoca. — A small, light-violet
flower, from California, not very showy. E. multiflora is in
gardens here, but, although preferable to this, is not very likely
to become a favorite.
E. Wrangelina. — Baron Wrangel's Eutoca. — This pretty
flowering annual is a native of New California, and has
very recently been introduced into this country. The plant is
of ready culture, growing freely in the open border, and bloom-
ing for several months, and has a peculiarly neat appearance.
The cymose heads, of pale-blue blossoms, being showy ; each
blossom is about half an inch across.
E. Menziesii. — Menzies' Eutoca. — A beautiful hardy
annual. The whole plant is clothed with hoary down, inter-
mixed with longer bristly hairs. Flowers light-blue, in racemes
an inch long. The plant should be cultivated in a light soil
and sunny situation.
EUPHOEBIA.
Euphorbia variegata. — Variegated Euphorbia. — A most
elegant species ; a native of Missouri and Arkansas Territory ;
an annual much cultivated now in gardens, and highly
esteemed; flowering late in autumn, and remarkable for its
abundant variegated floral leaves.
Leaves oval entire ; wavy, edged with white ; capsules
smooth ; stems hairy.
The seed must be sown early in April; it is some time
vegetating.
ERYSIMUM GAILLARDIA GILIA. 181
ERYSIMUM.
Erysimum peroffskianum. — Palestine Mustard. — This is
a hardy annual, having some resemblance to the Wall-flower.
The plant is erect; one foot to one and a half high; bearing
racemes or spikes of deep-orange blossoms from June to Sep-
tember : a mass of it is very showy.
GAILLARDIA. ,
Gaillardia picta. — Painted Gaillardia. — A very handsome
plant, naturally a perennial, but produces its flowers the first
year from seed, if started early. It does not stand the winter
without protection. It has large, beautiful crimson and yellow
flowers in August; one to two feet high.
G. bicolor. — Two-colored Gaillardia. — This variety ap-
pears identical with Gaillardia picta, excepting all the leaves
being entire. The fine large blossoms, more than two inches
across, the large crimson disk, surrounded by a ray of fine yel-
low, produce a very showy appearance, and render the plant
well deserving a place in every flower-garden. Gaillardia, in
compliment to M. Gaillard de Marentonneau, an amateur
botanist.
GILIA.
Gilia tricolor. — Three-colored Gilia. — This pretty annual,
originally from California, has found its way into most of our
gardens.
" This is one among the prettiest hardy annuals, not only of
recent introduction into the country, but that is known in our
gardens. It is, too, the more pleasing from the variation of
tint seen among its delicate flowers, some of them being white."
Pretty as this flower is, we fear it will not find favor with
most cultivators ; something more showy is wanted to suit the
16
182 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
common taste. The flowers are disposed in panicles, with a
yellow eye, surrounded by a purple ring, bordered by pale-
blue or white. It does not exceed one foot in height. "From
its humble stature and neat growth it is peculiarly suited for
culture in masses ; a style of planting showy flowers which
produces a striking effect, where it can be pursued on a tolera-
bly extensive scale."
G. tenuiflora. — Slender-flowered. — A new hardy annual
from California. Mr. Douglass has appended the name Gilia
splendens to the plant, but it does not certainly merit such an
appellation, being much inferior to G. tricolor. The flowers
of the present species are produced upon slender, branching
stems, which rise to about two feet high ; each flower is about a
quarter of an inch across, of a pale rose color, slightly streaked
with red outside, and of a fine violet in the inside. The flowers
do not produce much show where a single plant is grown ; but,
if grown in masses, it makes a pretty addition to the flower-
garden.
G. capitata. — Headed Gilia. — A pretty hardy annual,
with blue, and a variety with white, flowers, in clusters or
heads ; from June to August ; two feet high.
GOMPHRENA.
Globe Amaranth.
" Amaranths such as crown the maids
That wander through Zamara's shades."
Gomphrena globosa, — Globe Amaranth, — of which there are
three common varieties, the white and the purple and the
striped, are desirable for their heads of flowers, which, if gath-
ered before they are too far advanced, will retain their beauty
for several years. The seed is difficult to vegetate in the
open ground ; soaking in milk twelve hours is recommended ;
scalding, perhaps, would do better.
GODETIA HELIANTHUS. 183
A powerful heat in the hot-bed will start it quick, and de-
stroy the plant also, unless care is taken. Gomphrena is said to
be a name applied by the ancients to a plant bearing red and
green leaves on the same stem ; probably our Amaranthus tri-
color, which is a well known tender annual, of some show.
GODETIA.
Primrose.
This genus of plants has been separated from CEnothera, to
which it formerly belonged. They are generally very beauti-
ful plants ; hardy annuals, of easy cultivation in any good gar-
den soil.
Godetia Lindleyana. — Lindley's Godetia. — This species is
one of the prettiest of the tribe. The flowers are either white
or blush, with a rich purple blotch on each petal, which gives
great beauty to the flower. In flower in July and August ;
about one foot high.
G. rubicunda. — Ruddy Godetia. — A handsome hardy an-
nual plant, growing about one and a half foot high, with purple
flowers appearing in July and August. A native of California.
G. densiflora, — Dense-flowered, — has its purple flowers in
clusters.
There are many other species and varieties, all worthy of
cultivation, as G. lepida, quadrivulnera, purpurea, lifrous, &c.
HELIANTHUS.
Sun-flower.
" Great Helianthus climbs the upland lawn,
And bows in homage to the rising dawn ;
Imbibes with eagle eye the golden ray,
And watches as it moves the orb of day."
Helianthus annuas. — Garden Sun-flower. — This lordly
plant is too well known to need any description. A plantation
184 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
of them, in some locations, will do very well ; but they are
great exhausters of the soil.
The Double Dwarf Sun-flower is more desirable ; the tubular
florets of the disk being changed into ligular ones, like those in
the ray ; from three to six feet high.
HIBISCUS.
Hibiscus vesicarius. — African Hibiscus. — This is a plant of
extremely easy culture ; should be planted early in the spring.
The petals are large and showy, of a straw color, the centre a
deep rich brown or purple, finely contrasted with the brilliant
gold color of the stamens or anthers. The flowers quickly
perish, but, to compensate for their frailty, it continues to bloom
from June to September.
HELICHRYSUM.
Everlasting Flower.
A family of plants much admired on account of the beauty
of their flowers, when dried ; which, if gathered when they
first open, and carefully dried, retain their color and shape for
many years. They are, therefore, highly prized for winter
mantel bouquets, and ornaments for vases, &c.
Helichrysum bracteatum. — Golden Eternal Flower. — It is a
hardy annual, growing two feet high, producing flowers from
July to November. There is a variety with white flowers.
H. micanthrum. — Large Everlasting Flower. — This is of
the same height as the preceding, flowering at the same time ;
flowers much larger ; one variety white, tipped with red ; an-
other yellow, tipped in the same way ; all are easily cultivated
in a rich, loamy soil. Plants, forwarded in a frame, are in
bloom from June to November.
IBERIS. — IMPATIENS. 185
IBERIS.
Candy-Tuft.
Iberis, from the country called Iberia, now Spain. Most
of the species grow in such countries. They are generally
pretty plants, and some of them cultivated in gardens as hardy
annuals, under the name of Candy-Tuft, — a name which was
originally applied to the I. wnbellata only, which was first dis-
covered in Candia.
/. umbellata has umbels of purple flowers, in June and July.
/. amara, or bitter, has white flowers, in umbels, at the same
time. Both are hardy animals, of no little beauty, (the last
from England,) and worthy of cultivation. The seed should
be sown early in April ; height about one foot.
I. coronaria. — Rocket Candy-Tuft. — This hardy annual is
of considerable beauty, being very showy, and a pure white.
The clusters of racemes are numerous and very large, being
three or four inches long. At a distance, the fine flowers very
much resemble the Double White Rocket. It blooms for sev-
eral months during the summer. It well deserves a place in
every flower-garden.
All the species and varieties of the Candy-Tuft are very
hardy, and easy to cultivate. The fall-sown seeds flower early ;
those sown in April, from July to September ; and some of
the species until the frost in October. There is a variety, called
the New Crimson, that is not crimson, but a deep, rich purple.
All the varieties look best in beds, or masses.
IMPATIENS.
Balsam.
Impatiens lalsamina. — Touch-me-not. — The Double Bal-
sam is one of the most prominent, ornaments of the garden, in
July and August. Old seed is considered by some to be the
best, as more likely to produce double flowers. The seeds
16*
186 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
should be saved from double flowering plants only ; all single
flowering ones should be destroyed as soon as they appear.
Most plants raised in a hot-bed do better to transplant into
small pots, and shift to larger as they increase in size. Bal-
sams thus treated, sown the first of April, will begin to flower
the last of May, and may be turned into the ground in June,
without checking their growth in the least. If the soil is rich
and a little moist, or supplied with moisture, the plants will
attain a monstrous size, and be completely covered with a pro-
fusion of flowers all the season. All the full double varieties
are beautiful ; the colors are crimson, scarlet, light and dark
purple, rose, blush, white, &c.; some produce white and red or
purple flowers on the same plant ; others are variegated, or
spotted with various shades of red and purple, which are
decidedly the most elegant. The seed should be sown in the
open ground about the middle of May ; they will then flower
-"cry well for two months of the season.
IPOMEA.
The greater part of this genus are handsome climbing
plants.
Ipomea quamoclit. — Cypress Vine. — There is no annual
climbing plant that exceeds the Cypress Vine, in elegance of
foliage, gracefulness of habit, or loveliness of flowers.
The only difficulty in its successful cultivation, in our climate,
is the shortness of our seasons. It requires heat to bring it to
perfection, and will not give general satisfaction, unless the
plants are brought forward in the hot-bed.
If it is planted in the open ground, it will not be of any ad-
vantage to sow the seed before the last of May, as it will not
grow till the ground is warm. Previous to sowing, the seed
should have boiling water poured over it, which should remain
until the water is nearly cold. If sown in a warm place, the
plants will appear above ground in a few days. The plants are
difficult to transplant, therefore the seeds should be sown where
IPOMEA. 187
the plants are to remain. Without scalding, or unless the hull
of the seed is taken off, it will remain in the ground a long
time without vegetating. Plants thus raised will, in a warm
season, do very well, but much inferior to those that have been
forwarded in the frame. The seeds should be sown in a hot-
bed, with a brisk heat, in March, in small pots, a number of
seeds in each pot, so as to be sure of two or three plants in
each. In a month, if carefully attended, the roots will have
filled the pots ; it will then be necessary to shift the plants into
larger ones. Before the first of June, the plants will begin
to flower ; but do not be in haste to put them into the ground ;
keep them in the frame, where they can be protected in case
of cold storms, but expose them during the day to the full
influence of the sun and air, by taking the sashes entirely off.
By the 10th of June, the plants may be turned into the ground
very carefully, so that the roots may not be disturbed. The
ground should be made rich with well-rotted manure: the
plants should be placed at the distance of one foot, or a foot
and a half, if the object is to cover a wall or trellis. I have
covered a trellis by the middle of August, twenty-five feet long
and five high, with its elegant feathery foliage, so as to form a
complete screen. The flowers, like those of the Morning
Glory, appear in the morning and perish before noon. They
are of a deep crimson color, and contrast finely with the rich
green of the leaves. There is another variety, with white
flowers. It should be sheltered from the northerly winds by
a fence, trees, or buildings. An elegant cone may be made by
setting a straight pole substantially into the ground, eight feet
high from the surface ; describe a circle round it, whose diam-
eter shall be three feet ; let about ten pots of plants be turned
into the circle ; drive down a stake by the side of each, nearly
to the surface, to which tie a strong twine, that may be stained
or painted green ; let it be carried to the top of the pole and fast-
ened there ; then bring it down to the next stake, and so on until
the whole is completed. With a little assistance the vines will
climb the strings, and by the middle of August will be at the
188
top of the pole, making a splendid show, more than paying for
all the trouble. It may be trained over an arch, or any other
way fancy may direct. This beautiful vine is a native of the
Southern States.
I. coccinea. — Scarlet Morning Glory. — A handsome species
flowering in great profusion towards the close of the season, -
growing ten feet high ; a native of the West Indies. The
flowers are bright scarlet in one variety, arid, in another, yellow
and quite small ; from July to the first hard frost. The seed
may be sown from the 1st to the 10th of May, or treated like
the Cypress Vine.
J. lacunosa. — Starry Ipomea. — This is also a handsome
species; a North American plant; culture the same as cocci-
nea; with delicate blue flowers, from July to September ; ten feet
high. There is also a variety with white flowers.
/. nil is a highly beautiful plant, with the corollas of a clear
blue color, whence its name anil, or nil, (indigo) ; treatment
same as the last, and flowering the same time, attaining the
same height ; a North American plant.
LATHYRUS.
Sweet Pea.
" Peas of all kinds diffuse their odorous powers
Where Nature pencils butterflies on flowers."
Lathyrus odoratus is one of the most beautiful, and also one
of the most fragrant, of the species, and is deservedly one of
the most popular annuals which enrich the flower-garden. The
varieties are, white, rose, scarlet, purple, black, and variegated.
Each variety should be sown by itself, in circles about a foot
in diameter, three or four feet from any other plant. When the
young plants require support, a light, neat stake, or rod, should
be stuck into the centre of the circle, to which they should be .
slightly fastened as they advance in height. Some are in the
LASTHENIA LAVATERA LEPTOSIPHON. 189
habit of supporting them with brush, which looks very un-
sightly before it is covered with the vines.
The Sweet Pea will grow five or six feet high, in rich
ground, and continue in bloom from July to October. The
seed should be sown as soon as the ground is in order in the
spring.
LASTHENIA.
Lasthenia glabrata. — A yellow flower, from California,
somewhat in the style of a small Sun-flower ; not likely to
become very popular.
LAVATERA.
Lavateria, — in memory of two Lavaters, physicians of
Zurich. The species resemble those of Malva, in general
appearance and culture.
L. trimestris. — Common Lavatera. — A popular hardy an-
nual, of easy culture, and handsome appearance, flowering from
July to September ; one variety with white, and another with
pink, flowers ; two feet high.
LEPTOSIPHON.
Leptosiphon androsaceus — Androsace-like Leptosiphon. —
The name of the genus now before us is derived from the Greek
words lepios, slender, and siphon, a tube. Its application is
evident.
This is a very pretty hardy annual, of humble growth, vary-
ing, in the color of its flowers, from white to pale pink, or pur-
ple. It is a valuable little plant for flowering early in the sum-
mer from auturnn-sown seeds.
The physiologist may be recommended to examine the leaves
of this plant, which are deeply divided into segments, always
consisting of an even number, as four, six, eight, &c.
190 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
LIMNANTHUS.
Limnanthus Douglassii. — Mr. Douglass' Limnanthes. - — A
native of California, from whence it was sent by Mr. Douglass.
The plant is annual, quite hardy, decumbent, stems growing
ten or twelve inches long. The ends are crowned with nu-
merous fragrant flowers, each about an inch across, much
resembling in size and form the Nemophila grandiflora. A
large portion of the flower is a deep yellow, the extremities of
the petals being white. It blooms from June to August. Lim-
nanthes, from lumen, a lake, and anthos, a flower ; the plant,
probably, in its native habitats, growing by the sides of lakes,
rivers, &c.
LOASA.
A curious genus, mostly annuals, remarkable for the beauty
of their singular flowers, and as remarkable for the stinging
appendages of the plants.
Loasa acanthifolia and Irionifolia. — These are elegant yel-
low flowers, very curious in their structure ; but the plants pos-
sess one quality which must forever banish them from the
pleasure garden ; the whole plant is covered with hairs, which,
on being even slightly touched, eject a poison into the flesh,
causing a painful blister, the effect of which does not pass off
for several days.
L. lateritia. — Brick-red Loasa. — It is a native of South
America ; a climber, growing twelve to twenty feet in a sea-
son. The seed should be sown in a warm border, early in
May. The flowers are prettily colored between a brick-red and
orange shade, and produced in profusion through the summer
and autumn. It is very ornamental, when properly trained
upon a trellis ; but it will be best not to come within touching
distance of the plant without a good pair of gloves.
L. pentlandica is another beautiful species, of later introduc-
LOPHOSPERMUM LUPINUS. 191
tion than the last, and said to be more tender ; this is also a
climbing plant.
LOPHOSPEK-MUM.
Lophospermum scande?is. — Climbing Lophosper. — This
beautiful climber is properly a green-house perennial, but is
sometimes cultivated as an annual ; the plants flowering the
first year in the open ground, if they have been forwarded in
the hot-bed. The flowers are funnel-shaped, two inches or
more in length, of a dull purple. There are a number of
other varieties, with purple or crimson flowers. This beautiful
climber is found growing over bushes, making a splendid ap-
pearance, in the valley of Mexico. A variety, or species, with
white flowers, was discovered in the same location.
LUPINUS.
Lupin.
There are a number of annual Lupins in much esteem for
their velvet-like leaves and fine large flowers, all of vigorous
growth and easy to cultivate. The seeds should be planted in
April. The old varieties cultivated are, L. pilosas, rose ; L.
albus, white ; L. kirsutas, great blue ; and L. luteus, with fine
yellow flowers ; all flowering in July and August.
L. varius is a more delicate species, with smaller foliage and
fine blue flowers ; in bloom the same time as the others.
L. Hartwegii, — Hartweg's Lupin, — is one of the most beau-
tiful of all the species, with delicate foliage and numerous dense
spikes of rich blue .flowers ; in flower from July to September ;
from one to one and a half foot high, suitable for planting in
masses.
L. Cruikshaiiki. — Cruikshank's Lupin. — This is an elegant
192 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
species, growing from two to three feet high, with large spikes
of white flowers, shaded with yellow, and blue or purple.
The whole family flower better in a lean soil than in a rich
one.
MADIA.
Madia elegans. — Elegant Madia. — A pretty annual, of
recent introduction. The seeds should be planted in the bor-
der in May. If the plants can have a shady location, it will
be much the best, as the bright sunshine causes the petals of
the flower to curl up, thus destroying much of their beauty.
The flowers are large, with yellow rays and brown disk. Early
in the morning, or just at night, the blossoms appear exceeding
splendid ; about two feet high.
MALOPE.
Malope grandiflorum. — Grand Flowering Malope. — This
very showy plant is of the Mallow tribe ; grows two feet to
two feet six inches high. The flowers are produced in great
abundance, and, being of a fine rosy-crimson, make a very gay
appearance, rendering it a desirable plant for giving a distant
attracting effect. It blooms from June to the end of October,
unless cut off* by frost. Seed should be sown in pots early in
March, and be raised in a hot-bed ; or may be sown upon a hot-
bed, under a frame or hand-glass. The plants may be set out
in the open border by the middle of May.
M. grandiflora alba. — A variety with white flowers, but
rather more delicate in its habits than the other variety.
Both of the varieties are better grown in a green -house, but
are perfectly hardy. The plant blooms most profusely in a
good loamy soil, mixed with a little manure or leaf-mould. If
the soil be very rich, the plant wTill be liable to grow too vigor-
ously, and produce a vast profusion of foliage, which will
MAURANDIA MARTYNEA. 193
rather conceal the flowers ; but if moderately enriched, it will
produce one mass of bloom. I find it profitable to give all my
flower-beds an addition of fresh soil every winter, generally
adding about two or three inches deep. If the Molope grandi-
flora is not desired to come into bloom before the beginning of
August, the seed may be sown in April or May, in the open
border where it is desired that the plants shall blossom. The
plant produces seed in abundance, which ripen well from plants
that bloom early in the summer.
MAURANDIA.
Maurandia Barclayana is an elegant green-house, climbing
perennial, but may be raised from seed, and brought forward in
a frame, so as to flower profusely from August to October, or till
severe frosts later in the season. Plants may be had at most
green-houses, at small expense, which, put out in the border
with a little frame to which to attach its tendrils, will be loaded
with its rich, purple, foxglove-shaped flowers, every day
through the season. There are a number of other varieties,
all handsome. The plants will grow from five to ten feet
high.
MARTYNEA.
Unicorn Plant.
Handsome tropical annuals, remarkable for the size of their
flowers, compared with their leaves.
Martynea proboscidea. — Common Martynea. — This plant
is often cultivated in vegetable gardens for its capsules, which,
when green and tender, make a fine pickle. It is also a
curious plant for the border, on account of its large flowers ;
but more particularly for its singularly curious seed-vessels.
M. fragrans. — Fragrant Martynea. — This is a beautiful
new annual, that succeeds very well when sown in the open
17
194 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
border the 10th of May. It is undoubtedly one of the finest
species of the tribe ; no other one will compare with it. It is
robust in its habit, throwing out large lateral branches, the
plant growing three feet high, producing an immense profusion
of flowers from the first of August till destroyed by frost. The
flowers are large, resembling the Gloxinia, thick-set on spikes,
and are of a delicate rosy lilac, blotched and shaded with bright
crimson, with an agreeable odor. The foliage is thick, more
soft and velvety than the above-described species. The seed-
capsules add much to the appearance of the plant.
MATHIOLA.
Gillyflower.
This genus contains many beautiful species and varieties
of plants, with fragrant, handsome flowers, which have been so
much hybridized by florists, that it would puzzle a botanist to
define the species in most of the cultivated ''sorts. The Ger-
man stocks are very much celebrated for the great variety of
their color and size of their flowers.
I give Cobbett's description and mode of cultivation of this
fine tribe : —
" If I were to choose amongst all the biennials and annuals,
I should certainly choose the Stock. Elegant leaf, elegant
plant, beautiful, showy, and most fragrant flower ; and, with
suitable attention, blooms, even in the natural ground, from May
to November in England, and from June to November here.
" The annuals are called the Ten Week Stocks. And of
these there are, with a pea-green leaf, the red, white, purple,
and scarlet ; and then, there are all the same colors with a
wall flower, or sea-green leaf.
" Of the biennials, there are the Brompton, of which there
are the scarlet and the white ; and the Twickenham, which is
purple.
" As to propagation, it is of course by seed only. If there
MEDICAGO. 195
be nothing but the natural ground to rely on, the sowing must
be early ; the earth very fine and rich. The seed is small and
thin, and does not easily come up in coarse earth. If the
plants come up thick, thin them when very young, and
do not leave them nearer together than six inches. They, how-
ever, transplant very well ; and those that have not place to
blow in, may be removed, and a succession of bloom thus
secured.
" If you have a green-house, glass-frame, or hand-glass, you
get flowers six weeks earlier. The biennials are sown at the
same time, and treated in the same way.
" They blow the second year ; but if there be great difficulty
in preserving them in the natural ground, through the winter,
in England, what must it be here ? Indeed, it cannot be done ;
and yet they are so fine, so lofty, and such masses of beautiful
and fragrant flowers, and they continue so long in bloom, that
they are worth any care and any trouble. There is but one
way ; the plants, when they get ten or a dozen leaves, must be
put into flower-pots.
" These may be sunk in the earth, in the open ground, till
November, [Long Island,] and when the sharp frosts come, the
pots must be taken up and placed out of the reach of hard
frosts, and where there is, however, sun and air. When the
spring comes, the pots may be put out into the natural ground
again ; or, which is better, the balls of earth may be put into a
hole made for the purpose ; and thus the plants will be in the
natural ground, to blow.
" In this country, they should be placed in the shade when
put out again, for a very hot sun is apt to tarnish the bloom."
MEDICAGO.
Medicago sativa is the Lucerne, a valuable agricultural
plant. The following species are cultivated on account of their
196 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
curious seed-vessels, and not for their flowers, which are
inferior.
M. scutellata. — Snails. — An annual. It has curious seed-
pods, which resemble a snail, and is generally known by the
name of Snails.
M. intertezta, — Hedge-hog, — is an annual, cultivated for
its curious seed-vessels. Flowers yellow, in July and August.
M. circinatus, — Caterpillar, — is also a very curious
annual. The seed-pods have the appearance of caterpillars ;
flowers yellow, of no beauty ; in June and July.
ME SEMB RYAN THE MUM.
Ice Plant.
" With pellucid studs the Ice-flower gems
His rimy foliage, and his candied stems."
M. cordifolium. — Common Ice Plant. — This is a singular
tender annual plant, with thick, fleshy leaves, that have the
appearance of being covered with crystals of ice. It succeeds
well in the open border, when forwarded in small pots, in light
sandy soil, in a hot-bed. When the young seedlings have
obtained sufficient size, they should be shifted into larger pots,
in the same kind of soil in which the seeds were sown. They
may be grown in pots, or turned out in the open ground in
June. The plants are highly ornamental, and contrast well
with other annuals. There is not much beauty in the flowers.
MIMOSA.
Mimosa sensitiva, — Sensitive Plant, — is a well-known
annual, from Brazil. It succeeds in the border during the
summer months, if the seed is sown, in March or April, in a
hot-bed, and the plants forwarded in pots, and turned out in
MIMULUS. 197
June. Thus treated, it will flourish, and ripen seeds in favor-
able seasons, and grow to a large size.
This singular plant calls forth universal admiration. It has
been a puzzle to many a philosopher. The cause of its sensi-
tiveness has lately been more satisfactorily explained, yet it is
still shrouded in mystery. The plant is most irritable in the
greatest heat. Dr. Darwin thus characterizes it : —
" Weak with nice sense the chaste Mimosa stands,
From each rude touch withdraws her tender hands ;
Oft, as light clouds o'erpass the summer glade,
Alarmed, she trembles at the moving shade,
And feels, alive through all her tender form,
The whispered murmurs of the gathering storm ;
Shuts her sweet eye-lids to approaching night,
And hails, with freshened charms, the rising light."
MIMULUS.
Monkey Flower.
The species are showy plants, of the easiest culture, in
almost any soil or situation not over dry.
They are perennials in the green-house, where they are
easily propagated from cuttings. In" the open ground they
are annuals, flowering profusely the same season, from seed.
I have known them stand through the winter, in a moist place,
that was covered with ice the most of the season.
The seeds are almost as fine as dust, and require consider-
able attention to get them up.
I have found seeds, self-sown in the autumn, to come up
freely in the spring, commencing flowering in June, and con-
tinuing in bloom till October.
They seem to succeed best in a moist and rather shaded
place.
Mimulus rivularis has the reputation of producing a great
number of beautiful species, (as we are informed by an English
17*
198 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
periodical), " as Youngii, Smithii, Elphinstonea, Rowsoneana,
Wheelariana, Ranbyana, &c. This plant delights in a rich,
moist soil, mixed with sand, and if it be a little shady it is
beneficial ; the colors of the flower are better, and the plant
more vigorous. A free supply of water is necessary, in order
to grow this successfully. I have had a single plant grow
three feet and a half high, and be six feet in circumference,
producing a vast profusion of flowers, most amply repaying the
little extra attention paid to its culture. When I obtained this
plant at first, I was instructed to grow it in a small, shallow
pond, keeping the roots immersed in water. I was told it
would there succeed far better than by any other method ; but
in this particular I find it very much to the contrary. A soil
as above described, and a good supply of water in dry weather,
are all that is required. I had a plant of M. Elphinstonea,
grown in a pot this summer, the size above particularized.
The species and all its varieties are readily increased by taking
off rooted shoots, or by cuttings. Seed sown in spring, and
the plants pricked out into a bed of rich soil, will flower by
July, and continue through the season. The impregnation of
these kinds, with any or all of the others, produces a pleasing
and interesting variation of flowers. "
The flowers are tubular, with fine, wide-spreading segments ;
the ground color, all shades of yellow, from light straw to deep
orange, beautifully spotted or blotched with crimson or scarlet.
On some varieties there is a large blotch or spot on each seg-
ment of the corolla, while the throat of the plant is beautifully
spotted or mottled. It is a flower very much given to
sporting.
M. cardinalis is another very ornamental species, with bril-
liant scarlet flowers, with varieties having rose or orange-
colored blossoms. It requires the same treatment as the other
varieties, and is equally rapid in its growth. I have not, how-
ever, ever raised plants as large as the one described above.
M. moschatus. — Musk-scented. — This is well known as
the Musk Plant. It is dwarf in its habit, with small yellow
MIRABILIS MOMORDICA. 199
flowers, requiring the same soil and treatment as with the
other species and varieties.
There are many other species or varieties of this curious
plant, all pretty.
MIRABILIS.
Marvel of Peru.
Mirabilis is a Latin word, signifying something wonderful or
admirable, and applied with some reason.
M. jalapa, or common Four-o'clock of the gardens, is a very
ornamental plant for borders. When cultivated it sports into
many agreeable varieties.
It is considered and treated as a tender annual. It may,
however, be planted the last of April, and bears a profusion of
flowers in August and September. Although treated as an
annual, it is, in its native country, a perennial, with the rest
of the species. Its large tuberous roots, if taken up and pre-
served during winter, like the Dahlia, will flower perennially.
The flowers are red in its native country, the West Indies ; but
in the garden are to be found white, yellow, various shades of
red, and variegated flowers. The powder of these roots, washed,
scraped, and dried, is one of the substances which form the
jalap of druggists. Stem two to three feet high.
M. longiflora, like the last, is handsome and fragrant. The
flowers are pure white, with purple bottom, standing on long
tubes ; in July and August.
MOMORDICA.
M. balsamina, or Balsam Apple, is cultivated as an object of
curiosity, and for its fruit, which is considered excellent, by
those who are in the habit of using it, for curing wounds.
It has fleshy, ovate fruit, remotely tubercled in longitudinal
200 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
rows; smooth in the other parts; red when ripe, bursting
irregularly, and dispersing the seeds with a spring.
The fruit is used in Syria for the same purpose that it is
here. They cut it open when unripe, and infuse it in sweet
oil, exposed to the sun for some .days, until the oil has become
red. This, dropped on cotton, is applied to a fresh wound.
The fruit here is not picked until ripe, and then preserved in
spirit. A piece of the fruit is bound upon a fresh wound,
which is considered efficacious. A native of India; tender
annual ; a climber four feet high ; flowers yellow, in July and
August ; time for planting in May.
M. charantia. — Balsam Pear. — Like the last, a tender
annual, the same height and color of flower ; growth and habits
the same. Fruit fleshy, oblong, acuminate, angular-waisted ;
from the East Indies. This and the preceding must be sup-
ported with stout brush, four feet high.
M YOSOTIS.
Forget-me-not.
Myosotis, — so named from Greek words signifying a " rat's
ear." Its oval, velvety leaves are like the ear of a rat or
mouse.
M. arvensis is a well known sentimental plant, bearing very
delicate blue flowers, with white and yellow eyes, in little
spikes or clusters, most of the season ; six inches high.
It flourishes best in a moist, shady place. Propagated freely
from seeds. Autumn-sown plants succeed best.
NEMO PHIL A.
Nemophila insignis, — Opposite-leaved Insignis, — is an ele-
gant hardy annual, producing brilliant blue flowers, on stems
six or eight inches high.
NIG E LLA NOLANA . 201
Self-sown seeds produce plants that flower in May, and
continue a long time in bloom if in a shady situation. They
will not flourish if exposed to the hot sun.
N. aurita. — Ear-leaved Nemophila. — A hardy annual,
with purplish-blue flowers.
N. atomaria, — Dotted-flowered Nemophila, — resembles
N. insignis, but differs in its white flowers, which are thickly
dotted with dark purple. All the species are dwarf.
N. ?naculata, — Spotted Nemophila, — is a spotted variety
of insignis, of great beauty, but not common.
NIGELLA.
Love in a Mist.
Nigetta, from niger, black, because of the color of the seeds,
which are the parts of the plant used in cookery. The species
are curious or neat little plants, with fine-cut leaves, like
fennel. N. damascena and sativa are hardy annuals. In
some parts of Europe, the leaves and seed of the latter
species, and N. arvensis, are used in cookery, instead of more
expensive aromatics. They are also said to be extensively
used in the adulteration of pepper.
N. damascena is from the south of Europe ; two feet high,
with light-blue flowers, from June to September.
Flowers in a leafy involucre.
NOLANA.
Nolana is a diminution of nola, signifying a bell in low
Latin. The name has been applied to this plant on account
of its bell-shaped corolla. The species are hardy annuals,
of beautiful appearance when in flower.
Nolana prostrata. — Trailing Nolana. — Elegant annual from
202 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
Peru. Its specific name, prostrata, from the manner of grow-
ing. The stems are prostrate, much branching, and covered
with a profusion of flattish, bell-shaped flowers, of a fine blue
streaked with black, from July to September. It may be sown
early in the spring in the border.
Nolana atriplicifolia. — A new and very handsome flower-
ing annual, of prostrate growth, or, if grown in masses, will
rise to half a foot high. The flowers are produced most
numerously, and give a very pretty appearance. The plant
deserves a place in every flower-garden. It is a desirable plant
to grow in order to hang pendulous over the edge of a vase,
pot, &c., contrasting with Verbena melindres.
The flowers have some resemblance to the Dwarf Convol-
vulus, (Convolvulus ?ninor,) fine azure-blue with a white centre,
* the bottom or tube of the flower yellow. J. B.
OCYMUN.
Basil.
Ocymun basilicum. — Sweet Basil. — This highly odorifer-
ous plant is frequently known in country gardens, under the
name of Lavender. The true Lavender is a half-hardy shrub.
Sweet Basil is used in French cookery. It is a very agreeable
plant to have in the garden. The seed should be sown in
May.
(ENOTHERA.
Evening Primrose.
" A tuft of Evening Primroses,
O'er which the wind may hover till it dozes ;
O'er which it well might take a pleasant sleep,
But it is ever startled by the leap
Of buds into ripe flowers."
A family of plants which open their blossoms as dew begins
to fall, and generally handsome border flowers. O. Lindley-
PAPAVER. 203
ana and others have been separated from this genus, and now
classed with Goodetias.
O. grandiflora, — Great-flowered Evening Primrose, — is a
handsome border annual, with yellow flowers, from July to
October. Four feet high. A native of North America.
O. nocturna. — Night-smelling Primrose. — An elegant half-
hardy biennial from the Cape of Good Hope. Flowers pro-
fusely the first season, and may be considered and treated in
open air culture as a hardy annual, having a succession of
yellow flowers from July to October. Two feet high.
O. tetraptera. — White-flowered Evening Primrose. — A
very beautiful prostrate-growing, hardy annual from Mexico.
One foot high, with a succession of pure white flowers from
July to September, which make their appearance after the sun
has descended the horizon, and perish before it rises in the
morning.
O. longiflora, an elegant biennial, if the roots can be pre-
served through the winter., but generally cultivated as an
annual, with uncommonly large and showy yellow flowers from
July to October. A native of Buenos Ayres. Three feet high.
PAPAVER.
Poppy.
" And the poppies red,
On their wistful bed,
Turn up their dark blue eyes to thee."
Papaver rhceas. — Corn Poppy, or African Rose. — The spe-
cific name is from Greek, signifying to flow or fall, in allusion
to the quickly perishable nature of the flowers. It is a common
weed among grain on gravelly soils in England ; but, in its
double and semi-double varieties, it is one of the handsomest
of garden annuals ; sporting in a thousand different varieties
of scarlet, crimson, purple, pink, white, variegated, and parti-
204 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
colored flowers, and continuing all the summer in bloom. It is
frequently known by the name of the African Eose. The odor
of the flower renders it unpopular; nothing can exceed the
beauty and delicacy of the flower.
P. somniferum. — Opium Poppy. — The true Opium Poppy
has very large capsules. The flowers are white, of extra size.
Another variety has dull-purple flowers. The double varieties
are handsome, and, were it not for their bad odor and sleepy
properties, would be more highly appreciated in the flower-
garden. A bed of full double Poppies, of scarlet, crimson,
purple, white and variegated, makes a grand show.
Picotee Poppies are improved varieties with white flowers,
spotted or splashed with crimson or scarlet, and very hand-
some. All the varieties are easily cultivated. None of them
can be transplanted with success.
PETUNIA.
Petunia Pkcenecia. — An ever-blooming hardy annual, now
well known, but not many years an inhabitant of our flower-
gardens. Flowers purple ; from June to November.
P. nwtagynajlora has large white flowers, coarser in its
growth than the last, but of the same spreading habit.
From these two species have been produced innumerable
improved varieties, which can be perpetuated only by cuttings
or layers, and kept in the green-house through the winter.
Seedlings will vary essentially from the parent plant.
These varieties are various shades of white, rose or light-
purple, beautifully veined, striped or shaded with crimson or
purple, with dark throats.
Single plants should be trained to a trellis or frame-work,
and will grow three or four feet high. Planted in masses,
they present an ever-blooming, beautiful sight. The plants
are repulsive to the smell, and unpleasant to the touch, as the
stems and leaves are covered with a viscid substance.
PHLOX PHASEOLUS TLATYSTEMON. 205
PHLOX.
The only annual Phlox with which we are acquainted is
Phlox Drum?no?idii, and this, in all its varieties, is worthy of a
place in every garden. It is perfectly hardy. When planted
in masses, no plant is more showy. The varieties are scarlet,
crimson, purple, white, and pink, variegated with all inter-
mediate shades.
It grows about one foot high. To have a constant bloom of
this beautiful flower all the season, seed should be sown in
autumn, in the hot-bed in April, and in the open ground in
June. If the plants are put out six inches distant from each
other, they will form a compact mass, and amply repay all the
care and trouble of cultivation.
The plants are low and spreading, about one foot high.
PHASEOLUS.
PJiaseolus multiflorus. — Scarlet-flowering Bean. — This is
a popular climbing annual, with spikes of showy scarlet flow-
ers, and a variety with white flowers. They are extensively
cultivated to cover arbors, walls, or to form screens, for which
purpose they are admirably adapted, on account of their vigor-
ous and rapid growth.
Plant the beans the middle of May.
PLATYSTEMON.
Platystemon Californicus. — It is a hardy annual, of con-
siderable beauty, growing in any light, loamy soil, and readily
increased by seeds, which it perfects freely in the open border.
It is one of the many interesting discoveries of Mr. Douglass,
to whom our collections are indebted for its introduction.
18
206 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
Platystemon linear e. — Linear-leaved Platystemon. — One of
the prettiest of all little annuals, with its graceful cups of white
and yellow, resembling those of a Ranunculus, but far more gay.
It is a native of California, where it was originally found by
Douglass, who, however, sent home no seed.
PORTULACCA.
Every person who has had any experience in the garden is
too well acquainted with the weed Purslane, or Pursly, and
would gladly see an extermination, not only of that plant,
but all its kindred. It is indeed a troublesome weed ; but no
one should be condemned because he happens to have bad
relations, nor should Portulacca splendens, although a splendid
Purslane. In speaking of it we leave off the Purslane, and call
it the Splendid Portulacca, for, were its family connections gen-
erally known, we should fear it might not receive the attention
it deserves ; for, truly, it is a great acquisition to the flower-
garden, and no plant presents a more brilliant show than this,
when planted in masses. The flowers are rosy-crimson, large
and beautiful, opening with the bright morning sun. It makes
a rich bed from July to October. The plant is dwarf and trail-
ing ; leaves small ; about six inches high. All the other
varieties have the same habit, and equally beautiful.
Portulacca thellusoni, — Scarlet Portulacca, — is exactly like
the last, with brilliant scarlet flowers.
Portulacca, var. lutea, — the same, with fine yellow flowers,
and brown centre.
Portulacca, var. alba, — the same, with white flowers, often
sporting to white with pink stripes ; all the varieties are per-
fectly hardy, sowing themselves in autumn ; only requiring to
be thinned out in the spring, or transplanted to beds or wher-
ever wanted.
RESEDA — - RHODANTHE — SALPIGLOSSIS. 20 7
RESEDA.
Mignonette.
ct No gorgeous flowers the meek Reseda grace,
Yet sip with eager trunk yon busy race
Her simple cup, nor heed the dazzling gem
That beams in Fritillaria's diadem."
Reseda odorata. — Common Mignonette. — This fragrant
hardy annual is too well known to need any description. A
bed of it should be found in every garden. It continues to
bloom and send forth its sweetness all the season, perfuming
the whole region about the premises. Self-sown plants begin
to produce flowers in June. The plants are in great demand
in and about London and other great cities, being sold in pots
and in bouquets. Some idea of the extent of its cultivation
may be derived from the fact, which I heard from a creditable
London seedsman, that he alone sold a ton and a half of the
seed yearly.
RHODANTHE.
Rhodanthe Manglesii. — A most delightful plant, from the
new English colony at Swan River ; it is one of the tribe called
everlasting, from its remaining perfect throughout the winter,
if gathered when in bloom, and resembles the Helickrysum. A
plant exhibited at a meeting of the London Horticultural
Society, measured from eighteen inches to two feet in height,
and was covered with hundreds of open flowers, and expanded
rosy buds ; it remained in blossom three months.
SALPIGLOSSIS.
Salpiglossis, from two Greek words, signifying a trumpet
and a tongue, in allusion to the tubular, yet tongue-shaped, ex-
tremity of the style.
208 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
The genus contains many varieties of ornamental plants,
originally from Chili.
In their native habitats they are perennials ; but here a bien-
nial in the green-house, or a tender annual in the open air.
They succeed finely if the plants are started in a frame, flower-
ing in July and August ; from one and a half to two feet high.
Salpiglossis atropurpurea is extremely beautiful; being
altogether of a fine, rich, dark-velvety puce color. The flowers
of all the varieties are funnel-shaped, something after the fash-
ion of the Petunia, but not so broad.
S. straminea has pure yellow flowers.
S. Barclayana and hybrida are iron-brown, and yellow
veined with brown.
S. sinuata, flowers dark blood color, veined or striped. S.
picta has beautiful striped flowers.
The best soil is a mixture of loam and sand, enriched with
rotted horse- manure and a little leaf mould. In a heavy gar-
den soil it will not succeed so well.
The green-house is the proper situation for this pretty flower.
SCABIOSA.
Scabious.
" The Scabious blooms in sad array,
A mourner in her spring."
Scabiosa atropurpurea. — Mourning Bride. — A hardy orna-
mental plant, suitable for the border ; it may be sown any time
in May, and will produce its flowers from July to October; two
feet high. There is a great variety in the flowers of different
plants ; some of them are almost black ; others a dark puce
purple, and various shades, down to lilac; they are produced in
heads.
SCHIZANTHUS SCHIZOPETALON. 209
S CHIZANTHUS.
Schizanthus, from Greek words to cut, and a flower, in
allusion to the numerous divisions of its beautiful purple and
yellow flowers. Tender annual plants, with finely cut pale-
green leaves and terminal panicles of elegant flowers.
Schizanthus pinnatus, — Pinnate-leaved Schizanthus,— is one
of the most common species, from which a number of beautiful
and improved seedlings have been produced.
All the varieties are very pretty in the open ground, and
bloom most of the season, but are much injured by the sun or
severe rains. They can only be brought to the highest state
of perfection when grown in pots in the green-house, where
they can be made to attain the height of three or four feet, —
in the open ground about two feet ; from August to October.
The varieties are humilis, porrigens, retusus, Hookerii, Priestii
and Grahamii.
SCHIZOPETALON.
Schizopetalon Walkeri. — Walker's Schizopetalon. — This
is a singular plant, about one foot high, with curious white
flowers ; the segments of the corolla are finely cut into many
feathery divisions. The flowers are very frail, being soon
spoiled by the sun.
This remarkable plant is a native of Chili, whence it was
originally introduced by the late Mr. Walker, in 1821. It is
a hardy annual, thriving best in a light, sandy soil, and is
increased by seeds, which it however perfects but sparingly,
and that only in dry and warm summers. To hasten their
growth, and thereby insure the maturing of seeds, the young
plants should be raised in a frame, and planted out in a sunny
border about the middle of May.
The flowers are very fragrant, especially in the evening.
18*
210 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
SPHGENOGYNE.
Sph&nogyne speciosa. — This is a most beautiful flowering
annual, growing about a foot high. The plant is of handsome
foliage, and a most profuse bloomer. The flowers open fully
when the sun shines upon them, and then display a show of
the most pleasing kind. It is in bloom from June to October.
A bed of it would be a delightful contrast to one of an opposite
color. It has some resemblance to the Calliopsis ; rays, yel-
low ; disk dark-brown ; flowers about two and a half inches
across.
SENECIO.
Senecio elegans. — Ragwort, or Double Groundsel. — There
are four kinds of this plant, viz., double red, double crimson,
double white and double flesh-colored. Each of these kinds
will make a most handsome bed. The plant is very pretty in
its foliage, grows freely and most profusely ; scarcely anything
surpassing it for a neat and handsome show. It will grow about
eighteen inches high, and continue in bloom from June to the
end of the season. The soil I grow it in very successfully is
fresh loam, mixed with leaf mould, and about eight inches deep,
upon a dry subsoil. I find that when the soil is much enriched,
the plant has a tendency to produce too much foliage ; but,
grown in turf, loam, &c., as above stated, an amazing produc-
tion of bloom is the result. The plant is readily increased by
slips, scarcely one in a hundred failing to grow. It is also
raised from seed; but few of the plants will produce double
flowers.
SILENE.
Catch-Fly.
This is a large family of plants, many of them mere weeds,
whiie others are handsome flowers, suitable for the garden.
TAGETES. 211
Silene armeria. — Lobel's Catch-fly. — A very hardy annual,
with dense umbels of pink, and another variety with white
flowers, from June to October ; one and a half foot high.
Silene compacta. — Compact-flowered. — Another beautiful
species similar to the last, except the flowers are more crowded
in the umbel.
Silene pendula. — Pendulous-flowered. — A dwarf, bushy
habit ; pink flowers, from June to September.
Having the plants once in the ground, there will always be
a plenty of self-sown seeds in the spring.
TAGETES.
Marigold.
Tagetes patula. — French Marigold. — A well-known ten-
der annual ; one of the old-fashioned flowers ; deservedly
popular, from the brilliancy and variegation of its flowers.
Some of the improved varieties are exceedingly beautiful,
particularly the fine variegated sorts, of a rich velvety brown
and yellow, distinctly striped or shaded with brown on yellow
ground. All the varieties of this and the following species are
prone to degenerate, even when the seed is saved from the
most perfect flowers ; great care must therefore be taken to pull
up every plant with single or inferior flowers as soon as it
appears.
Tagetes erecta. — African Marigold. — The large double
varieties of this species are very rich. The colors from a pale
citron-yellow to deep orange.
There are also varieties intermediate between T. patula and
this species, which are also very fine. The seed may be sown
any time in May. The plants should be transplanted, when
large enough, into patches of five or six plants each; all inferior
sorts should be pulled up as soon as the flowers appear ; one plant
being sufficient for one place, which, if tied up to a stick and
212 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
trimmed occasionally, will give good satisfaction; flowering
from July till the frost kills it in autumn.
THUNBERGIA.
Thunbergia alata. — Winged-petioled Thunbergia. — Hand-
some climbing green-house perennial, but succeeds well as an
annual, from seed sown in the open ground the last of May,
growing five or six feet high, with numerous buff-colored flow-
ers, with dark throat, from July to October.
Thunbergia alata, var. alba. — White-flowered, winged-
petioled Thunbergia. — This is a very showy variety of T. alata,
differing in no respect except color. The plant is highly orna-
mental, and, being easily multiplied by cuttings, it has already
become common. Like the other variety it is often treated as
a stove plant, but it succeeds better in the conservatory or green-
house, and, if planted in a warm, sunny border, it will grow and
blossom freely during the summer months. A soil composed
of peat and loam is that which suits it best.
The genus was dedicated by the younger Linnaeus to his
friend and successor, Thunberg, an indefatigable botanical
traveller.
Thunbergia alata, var. aurantica. — Orange-flowered. — This
is another beautiful variety, requiring the same treatment.
Plants forwarded in pots, in a frame, succeed better than those
sown in the open ground. There are other improved varieties,
all fine. The plants throw out many lateral branches, and will
require training to a trellis or frame-work.
TROP^EOLUM.
Nasturtium — Indian Cress.
TropcBolmn, from tropcsum, a trophy. — The leaf resembles a
buckler, and the flower an empty helmet, of which trophies
were formed.
VERBENA. 213
Tropceolum peregrinum. — Canary Bird flower. — This is a
beautiful climber, known as the Canary Bird flower. The
charming little canary-colored blossoms, when half expanded,
have a pretty and fanciful likeness to little birds. The plant,
like the type of the genus, has a fine, luxuriant, rambling char-
acter. It succeeds best in a light soil. If the seeds are planted
in April or May, by the side of a trellis or arbor, they will soon
cover considerable space, and produce its curious, lively flowers
from July till the severe frosts of autumn destroy it. In rich,
heavy soil it runs very much to vine, and produces its flowers
very sparingly. The foliage is similar to the common species,
but much more delicate.
Tropceolum majus. — Nasturtium. — This is a well known
ornamental annual, of easy cultivation. It flowers best in a
light soil. It looks well trained to a trellis, or over a wall.
The flowers are rich orange, shaded with crimson and various
colors ; the variety with crimson or blood-colored flowers makes
a fine contrast with the orange. The seeds are used as a sub-
stitute for capers, and the flowers sometimes eaten as salads.
VERBENA.
London says, it is a genus of weedy plants, which was in
fact the case before the introduction of "Verbena chamcedrifolia.
with the exception of the Verbena aubletia, and Lambertii.
Verbena chamcedrifolia, Germander-leaved. — Synonym. V.
Melindres, Scarlet-flowered Vervain. — This plant is a native
of Buenos Ayres, growing through a very extensive tract of
country. The dazzling, brilliant, scarlet flowers cannot be
exceeded by any other plant yet introduced into this country;
and blooming from May to November, in the open air, with us,
makes it one of the most desirable plants in cultivation.
From the above species have been raised innumerable splen-
did varieties, of every color and tint, excepting yellow and blue.
Some varieties are of a bluish-purple, ruby-purple, lilac and
214 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
dark-purple, rose, scarlet, crimson, white, white with red eye,
scarlet with purple eye, rosy with red eye, shaded, striped, &e.;
in fact, every shade of the colors named. The habits of all are
similar, naturally prostrate creeping plants, taking root, freely
wherever the stems come in contact with the ground, and send-
ing forth innumerable clusters of their many-hued, brilliant
flowers from May to November.
It is kept with difficulty through the winter, except in rooms
or in the green-house. In the cellar the roots soon perish ; nor
are any of them quite hardy enough to stand the winter.
They are all so easily raised from cuttings that they can be
obtained at any green-house, for about two dollars a dozen for
small plants, which, when turned into the ground in June, soon
make large plants, and by October will be three feet across.
They continue to flower after severe frosts, and are among the
last lingering flowers of autumn.
They flower from seed sown in the open ground, in May, the
same season, commencing their bloom in August. Seedling
plants produce seed in abundance, but those that have been a
long time propagated from cuttings lose that power in a great
measure. There is no end to the variety from seedling plants.
To have them come early in flower, the seed may be brought
forward in the frame. No plant equals the Verbena for masses,
particularly when grown in beds cut out on lawns, as the bril-
liancy of the flowers contrasts finely with the green grass.
VIOLA.
Viola tricolor has already been treated of as a biennial or
perennial ; it may also be considered as an annual, as it flowers
finely the first year. — See page 157.
ZERANTHEMUM ZINNIA. 215
ZERANTHEMUM.
Zeranthemum, from Greek words signifying dry and a
Jlower, on account of the dry nature of the leaves of the calyx,
which retain their color and form for many years.
Zeranthemum annum, — Purple Everlasting, — and a variety
with white flowers, are popular border annuals, of easy culture
in light, rich soil. Like the Helichrysums, they are valued for
their properties of retaining their colors and form, when
gathered and dried, and much prized in forming winter bou-
quets for vases, &c.
ZINNIA.
Handsome border annual plants, requiring the same cultiva-
tion as the Marigold.
Zinnia elegans, with its varieties, are all handsome flowering
plants ; in bloom from July to October ; two or three feet high.
The colors of some of the varieties are very brilliant, and par-
ticularly the scarlets. The colors are white, pale to dark yellow,
orange to scarlet; shades from rose to crimson, from crim-
son to light purple, lilac, &c. The flowers are handsome
when it first commences the process of blooming ; the cen-
tral, or disk part of it, which contains the florets, as they begin
to form seed, assume a conic shape, and a brown, husky appear-
ance, which gives the flower a coarse, unsightly look.
DESCRIPTIVE LIST OF HARDY SHRUBS AND LOW TREES,
SUITABLE FOR THE SHRUBBERY.
JESCULUS.
Horse Chestnut.
THE common Horse Chestnut is a well known ornamental
tree, of rapid growth ; beautiful when in blossom, it being cov-
ered with spikes of delicate white or pink flowers, which are
produced from its elegant digitate leaves.
There are some of the species which make a beautiful show
in shrubberies, when in flower in the spring. They flourish in
any soil and situation. The 3L. discolor seldom grows above
six feet high, and, therefore, will stand pretty forward. M.
carnea, from sixteen to twenty feet. 3Z. rubicunda, from ten to
twelve ; and M. pavia, from six to eight. The different sorts
are easily propagated by grafting, and may all be united on the
common kind. No plants are better calculated for shrubberies ;
for, although they are deciduous, the variation in foliage from
the ordinary shrubs has a charming effect.
ACUBA.
Acuba japonica. — Gold-Dust Tree. — This is an evergreen
shrub, having large, handsome foliage, with golden spots or
blotches. In this climate it is somewhat tender, particularly
when young.
AMORPHA AMELANCHIEK. 217
AMORPHA.
Indigo Shrub.
Amorpha, from Greek words denoting- the deformity of the
corolla.
Amorpha futicosa. — Bastard Indigo. — This shrub is a
native of South Carolina, and once used in that State as an
indigo plant, but now neglected. It is an ornamental shrub,
about six feet high, with spikes of purplish flowers in July. It
is of easy cultivation, and propagated by seeds or cuttings.
AMELANCHIER.
Shad Bush.
This is a genus of ornamental shrubs, or small trees, of which
one or two species are conspicuous ornaments of our woods and
swamps in May. Mr. Emerson, in his " Trees of Massachu-
setts," says, that " There are two remarkable distinct varieties of
A. canadensis, or Swamp Pyrus, of Torrey and Gray, found in
Massachusetts. Both are called the Shad Bush, from flower-
ing when the shad begin to ascend the streams. The first is
called,
" A. botryapium, — or June Berry. — This is a small, grace-
ful tree, from fifteen to twenty feet high, with a few slender,
distant branches, usually growing in upland woods. It has
large white flowers, in pendulous racemes, expanding about
the first of May, or a little later, according to the season, just
as the leaves are beginning to open, with small, purple or faint
crimson bracts at the base of the partial flower-stalks, and often
near the flowers. The union of the crimson or purple of the
scales and stipules with the pure white flowers, and the glossy,
silken, scattering pairs of the opening leaves, give delicate
beauty to this early, welcome promise of the woods.
"A. ovalis. — Swamp Sugar Pear. — This is a smaller tree
19
218 BRECK'S BOOK or FLOWERS.
than the preceding, but sometimes rises twelve or fifteen feet
high. It is usually, however, a shrub."
The general appearance of both is similar, but it appears
that there are botanical distinctions sufficient to arrange them
in two species. They are deserving a place in every shrub-
bery.
A. sanguinea, — or Scarlet-wooded Amelanchier, — bears a
strong resemblance to the Snowy Mespilus, and is very orna-
mental. It seldom grows over four feet.
A. Jlorida. — This species bears a good deal of resemblance
to the sanguinea, except in the racemes of flowers, which are
produced after the manner of the bird-cherry.
AM YGDALUS.
Amygdalus, — the Greek name for the Almond. The
species are fruit-trees, or ornamental trees and shrubs, much
esteemed for the gay color and early appearance of their
flowers.
A. Persica plena, — Double-flowering Peach, — is very
beautiful in the shrubbery. The flowers are large and full,
like small roses. There is a white and pink variety. Unless
the trees are kept headed down, or pruned in well, they become
straggling and unsightly. Particular attention should there-
fore be paid to this point.
A. piimila plena. — Double Dwarf Almond. — This is a
beautiful dwarf shrub, loaded in the spring with its elegant
flowers, resembling small roses. It is not inferior to any shrub
whatever, when in blossom, and makes a fine appearance in the
shrubbery ; easily propagated by suckers.
A most beautiful way of growing it is by budding it upon
the plum stock. In this way it is much more hardy than
when grown on its own roots. Thus a magnificent head may
be formed, at any distance from the ground that may be
desired. The Double Peach may also be budded on plum
AMPELOPSIS. 219
stocks, and, properly pruned, will make a great show when in
flower.
AMPELOPSIS.
Virginian Creeper.
Ampelopsis quinquefolia. — American Woodbine. — " This
is the most ornamental plant of its genus. It recommends
itself by its hardiness, the rapidity of its growth, and the luxu-
riance and beauty of its foliage. It is a native of our woods,
and climbs rocks and trees to a great height. In cultivation it
is often made to cover walls of houses, forty or fifty feet high,
clinging by rootlets which proceed from its tendrils. The
flower is of a reddish-green, and not showy, which is suc-
ceeded by clusters of dark-blue, nearly black, berries when
mature. At the same period the fruit-stalks and tendrils
assume a rich crimson or red color.
" The great variety of rich colors, shades of scarlet, crim-
son, and purple, which the leaves and stems of this plant
assume, and the situations in which we see it, climbing up the
trunks and spreading along the branches of trees, covering
walls and heaps of stones, forming natural festoons from tree
to tree, or trained on the sides and along the piazzas of dwell-
ing-houses, make it one of the conspicuous ornaments of the
autumnal months. Often, in October, it may be seen mingling
its scarlet and orange leaves, thirty or forty feet from the
ground, with the green leaves of the still unchanged tree on
which it climbed." — (Emerson.)
This luxuriant climber is easily propagated by layers and
cuttings. It flourishes best in a rich, moist soil.
Examples of the surprising luxuriance of this plant may be
seen on a number of dwelling houses in Beacon street, Boston,
and on many other buildings in that city.
220 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
ANDROMEDA.
Androrneda. — Named in allusion to the virgin, Andromeda,
who, like this plant, was confined in a marsh, and surrounded
by the monsters of the water.
The species are neat plants, and some of them considerable
shrubs; all requiring a moist situation and peat earth.
A. polifolia. — Water Andromeda. — This beautiful little
shrub is from twelve to eighteen inches high, found in wet,
mossy bogs, in various parts of the state, and to the extreme
north of this continent. The flowers are red before they open,
but, when fully expanded, of a rosy hue. It flowers in June.
There are a great number of North American species, which
might be introduced into the shrubbery with good effect.
Most of them are dwarfs, and succeed well with the same
treatment that is given to the Azalea.
A. speciosa and all its varieties are very beautiful, and flower
in great profusion, and continue in leaf nearly the whole year,
although they are not, strictly, evergreen shrubs. They grow
about three feet high.
They are all propagated by seed, layers, or cuttings.
ARISTOLO CHI A.
Birth-wort.
Aristolochia sipho. — Pipe Vine. — A singular climbing
plant, with handsome, broad foliage, with brownish purple, and
very curious, somewhat pipe-shaped flowers. It grows fifteen
or twenty feet high; blooms in June and July; propagated
from layers and cuttings. It 'flourishes in any good, strong
soil.
AZALEA.
This is a genus of highly ornamental shrubs, of which
many species are indigenous.
AZALEA.
221
The only species common in the vicinity of Boston is A. vis-
cosa, which may be found in abundance among the brush-wood
in low grounds, and is much admired for the fragrance of its
flowers, which are produced in terminal, umbel-like corymbs ;
mostly pure white, but sometimes varying to blush or varie-
gated ; hairy and glutinous on the outside ; stamens longer than
the corolla, which in all the species is bell or funnel form,
terminating in five unequal segments.
As we advance further into the interior, thirty or forty miles,
the beautiful A. nudiflora occasionally presents itself to the
enraptured traveller, tempting him for a while to forget the
objects of his journey, and admire the elegance and fragrance
of its flowers. This, as well as A. viscosa, is called by the
country people Swamp Pink, probably on account of the odor
of the flowers, which has some resemblance to the Garden
Pink. By them the/ are eagerly sought after, and form a con-
spicuous part of the decoration of the mantel-piece, in its sea-
son, the month of June. The color is commonly a fine pink,
varying to a deep red, which is rare. Their beauty is much
increased by the length of the thread-like stamens, being much
longer than the corolla, which is naked or destitute of a calyx,
from which its specific name is given, nudiflora, or naked-
flowered.
There are as many as a dozen indigenous species, besides
many varieties to be found in different parts of our country ; all
handsome, and worthy the attention of the florist.
" The Azalea is a well-known plant throughout Belgium,
and forms one of the most splendid decorations of the flower-
garden. It is generally considered to be the most beautiful
genus of the flowering shrubs. The neat form and bushy
growth, the vast profusion of its flowers, the extensive variety
and spleidor of colors in the flowers, their appearance at a
season when few other flowers are in bloom, and the little
trouble which the plant requires when grown in a suitable soil
and a good situation, all combine to cause the plant to be much
19*
222 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
admired, sought after, and introduced into nearly every pleas-
ure-ground in Belgium.
" The varieties of this handsome genus are very numerous,
and have been raised in a short period. Twenty years since,
there were only a very few moderate species, having small,
insignificant flowers." Now there are many varieties, with
brilliant flowers, in large clusters, continuing through the
month of June. The colors are white, yellow, orange, scarlet,
and pink, with every intermediate shade.
Notwithstanding the exceeding beauty of this tribe of
shrubs, and their perfect hardiness, they are rarely to be seen
in our gardens.
Azaleas require a moist, peaty soil, or black, sandy loam,
and rather shady situation. Plants may be freely raised from
seed, or from layers and suckers.
If taken from the woods, the best way is to cut them off
close to the ground. They will throw up numerous shoots,
and form fine healthy plants.
BERBEEIS.
Barberry.
Many of the species are cultivated in the gardens of Europe,
on account of the beauty of their fruit, flowers, or foliage.
Some few species are known among us, but none prettier
than our common Barberry, or Berberis vulgaris. This shrub
is too common in the vicinity of Boston ; but where it is not
found growing in such profusion, it will most assuredly be
found a valuable addition to the shrubbery.
" Every one who is an observer of nature, must have been
struck, in June, with the beauty of the arching, upper shoots
of the barberry, springing from a mass of rich green, and sus-
taining numerous, pendent racemes of splendid yellow flowers.
It is hardly less attractive when its blossoms have been sue-
BIGNONIA. 223
ceeded by clusters of scarlet fruit. The Barberry is a bush
usually four or five, but often seven or eight, feet high."
It has often been said, and very generally believed, that Bar-
berry bushes were prejudicial to rye, causing it to blast ; but
this has not been our experience, having grown heavy crops
of rye in fields with Barberry bushes on all sides of it.
B. dulcis is more dwarf in its habits, the foliage more deli-
cate, and almost evergreen ; the flowers dark-orange, scattered
along the branches, among the foliage. It is a very pretty
plant, and makes a handsome hedge. All the species are
easily propagated by suckers.
BIGNONIA.
Trumpet Flower.
The species are trees or shrubs, inhabitants of hot climates.
The flowers are produced in panicles, and are large, handsome,
and of various colors. The hardy species will grow in almost
any good soil, and easily propagated by layers or cuttings of
the root.
Big?Lonia radicans. — Scarlet Trumpet Flower. — This is a
magnificent climbing plant, producing large, trumpet-shaped,
orange-scarlet flowers, of great beauty, from July to October.
They are produced in clusters ; handsome in bud, as well as
when fully expanded, which, when contrasted with the elegant
glossy, pinnate foliage, presents a most splendid sight when
trained to a pillar or trellis.
The plant is a little tender in some locations, and will do
best to be laid down and covered over, or secured with straw
or mats.
This is the only species generally cultivated, in this neigh-
borhood, in the open air. B. grandiftora will succeed in a
more southern climate, and perhaps at the north with some
protection.
224 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
BUXUS.
Sox.
Buxus sempervirens. — Garden Box. — This is a delicate
shrub, which may be pruned to any shape to please the fancy.
It is an evergreen, and easily propagated by cuttings. It is in
general use, and the best material for forming edgings to beds,
walks, &c. Plants may be trained singly into almost any
shape, and will make large shrubs, in some locations. It is nec-
essary to plant Box for shrubs in a shady place, which will gen-
erally require to be matted in the winter. There are varieties
with yellow and white striped leaves, called the gold and silver
striped. There are a number of species, among which are the
Dwarf and Tree Box. The last kind is suitable for the shrub-
bery, as it will grow and thrive well under the drip of trees.
CATALPA.
Catalpa syringifolia. — This is a North American shrub, or
tree, from the south-west and south. It has large, handsome,
white, variegated flowers, in clusters, in July, that are suc-
ceeded by long seed-vessels, having some resemblance to bean-
pods. The leaves are large and luxuriant, coming out very
late. If planted in a warm, sheltered place, it will flower
finely when it has become ten or twelve feet high, although its
ordinary heiglit is twenty feet or more. It makes a vigorous,
succulent growth, which is very often winter-killed. The tree is
not very regular in its growth, but, when planted among other
trees, or shrubs, it makes a fine appearance.
CALYCANTHUS.
All this genus are natives of North America. They are
very easy of culture, growing freely in peat or loam, or both,
CAPRIFOLIUM. 225
mixed. The flowers are dark-brown color, and very fragrant,
resembling the odor of ripe melons. The wood is also very
fragrant.
Calycanthus florida. — Carolina Allspice. — This is a well-
known species, from three to five feet high, flowering from
June to August. There are also a number of other species,
but all nearly resemble the last, except in height and the style
of the leaves. C.fertalis has glaucous leaves; C. Icevigatus
smooth leaves ; both about three feet high ; all easily propa-
gated from suckers or layers.
CAPRIFOLIUM.
Honeysuckle.
A beautiful genus, of well-known climbing shrubs, growing
from fifteen to twenty feet high, some of them producing their
flowers in succession through all the summer and autumnal
months. They are all valuable for pillars, arbors, trellises, &c.
Many of the species are natives of North America ; among
them is the splendid Scarlet Trumpet Honeysuckle, a native
of the Southern States, but found to be hardy here, and in gen-
eral cultivation. Its trumpet-shaped flowers are produced in
clusters, of a rich scarlet without, and orange within; in bloom
from June to October.
Caprifolium flavum. — Yellow Trumpet Monthly Honey-
suckle. — This is also a native of the South, but long cultivated
in Europe, and from ihence introduced here. This continues
to bloom all the season.
C. semper vir ens. — Evergreen Scarlet Monthly Honeysuckle.
— This is also a native of North America, perfectly hardy
here ; the foliage is evergreen ; the flowers trumpet-shaped, of
a rich scarlet without, tinged with orange within. The plant
grows rapidly, throws out a multitude of branches, and has a
singularly rich appearance, from the deep-green of its leaves
and the splendor of its scarlet flowers.
226 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
C. hirsuta. — Hairy Honeysuckle. — This is a native of
Massachusetts, found on damp, rocky banks, often growing to
the height of fifteen to thirty feet; the flowers are of a pale-
yellow without, hairy, and of a rich orange within ; flowers,
June and July.
C. peridymenum. — Woodbine. — This is a vigorous-grow-
ing English species ; flowers pale-yellow, in June ; highly
fragrant.
The variety belgicum, or Dutch Sweet-scented Honeysuckle,
is a well-known fragrant climber, giving a profusion of bloom
in June, which emits a delightful odor to all the neighborhood;
flowers yellow, variegated with red or purple.
The Dutch Monthly Sweet-scented Honeysuckle is another
variety, with flowers somewhat like the last, but are produced
in succession through the summer and autumn, until hard
frosts. The buds, before they expand, are of a dark-red, or
purple. When the flower opens, the interior is pure white,
which changes to a cream color, and from that to an orange,
giving the cluster a variegated and rich appearance. A vari-
ety has oak-shaped leaves.
C. flexuosum, or Chinese Honeysuckle. — A very desirable
variety, with evergreen leaves, and delicate flowers through the
season ; stem flexuous and twining. Like many others of the
Chinese plants, it readily supports the rigor of our winters, and,
blooming with an exhaustless profusion, presents, from May
till late in autumn, rich wreaths of flowers, various in tint,
and of an exquisite orange-flower perfume.
The buds are purple ; as they expand, the spotless white of
its gaping corolla is exhibited, with its protruding stamens
tipped with yellow anthers. On exposure to the air, the flowers
gradually assume a cream-like tint, and, finally, a perfect
orange color; and, as they mature in succession from the base
to the extremity of the branch, the colors are all present on
the same shoot. The stems and nerves of the leaves are pur-
ple ; it is nearly evergreen. In rich loam, the growth is luxu-
riant.
CEANOTHUS CELASTRUS. 227
Some beautiful varieties of the Scarlet Trumpet Honey-
suckle were imported by us a few years since, that have given
great satisfaction. One of the finest is C.jloribunda, having
clusters of large, trumpet-shaped, orange-scarlet flowers, yel-
low inside.
The White Italian Honeysuckle has pale-yellow, almost
white, flowers. There are many other fine varieties and spe-
cies of this beautiful tribe, but not much known.
CEANOTHUS.
Ceanothus Americanus. — New Jersey Tea. — A delicate,
flowering, native shrub ; a low and bulby plant, flowering in
June and July, from one to three feet high, found growing on
the margin of woods, in dry, sandy soil. The minute white
flowers are crowded in clusters, and are very pretty. The
leaves have been used as a substitute for tea.
CELASTRUS.
Celastrus scandens. — Wax-work. Climbing Staff. — A strong,
woody vine, twining around small trees, and over rocks and
bushes, growing in moist situations and beside stone walls ;
very ornamental when in fruit. This native climber should be
introduced into every garden, for the covering of arbors, walls,
or trellis-work, or to be trained to a pillar in the shrubbery.
The foliage is handsome, of a deep-green. The flowers are
white, in panicled clusters, arid not remarkable for show. The
fruit or berries very ornamental. The fruit is a berry,
enclosed in a round, three-valved capsule, as a walnut is en-
closed in the hull. When the fruit is ripe, the valves, or hulls,
turn backward, without falling off, and disclose a berry, of a
deep-scarlet, finely contrasted with the orange color of the valves.
It is a very vigorous climber, and will grow from fifteen to
228 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
twenty feet high. The stem is very slender, rarely more than
an inch thick.
CLEMATIS.
Many of the Clematis are shrubby plants, but have all been
noticed among the herbaceous tribe.
CERASUS.
Cherry.
The scientific name is derived from a town on the Black
Sea, from whence this tree was supposed to be introduced. A
few species, with numerous varieties, produce valuable fruits,
while nearly all are remarkable for the abundance of their
early flowers.
The Double-flowering Cherry, Cerasus communis plena, is a
very desirable addition to the shrubbery, on account of its im-
mense number of large, double, pure white flowers, which cover
the tree in the early part of May. The flowers are like small
white roses, very full and beautiful. By proper training, it
can be kept in a low, shrubby state, if desirable. It will grow
in any garden soil, and is propagated by budding or grafting.
The Weeping Cherry is formed by budding a delicate
drooping species of Bird Cherry upon the Mazard stock, at
any height that may suit the fancy. By inserting a number
of buds, at the desired height, a large drooping head may be
formed, which 'continues to increase in diameter, but not much
in height. Its pendent branches, covered with delicate foliage,
are at all times a pleasant sight, but more particularly when
covered with its profusion of bloom.
A number of indigenous species might be introduced into
the shrubbery, or pleasure-ground, with good effect.
Cerasus Virginiana. — Choke Cherry. — This is an orna-
mental shrub, interesting, whether in flower or fruit. It grows
CERCIS CHIONANTHUS. 229
from two to fifteen feet high. In May it is covered with a
profusion of white flowers, in dense racemes, and in July and
August the branches are bent down with a profusion of fruit.
C. Pennsylvanica. — The Northern Red Cherry. — This is
a small, slender tree, with delicate foliage, and handsome white
flowers. The fruit is deep-red, and not very abundant.
C. scrotina. — The Black Cherry. — This is a well-known
tree, handsome in flower and fruit. In the shrubbery, it should
be planted in the background. The only drawback to the
beauty of this tree, is, that it is peculiarly subject to the rav-
ages of the caterpillar. They are sure to make this tree their
favorite home ; and, unless special pains is taken to dislodge
them early in the season, the tree, for ornamental purposes, is
utterly spoiled.
CERCIS.
Cercis canadensis. — Judas Tree — Red Bud. — This is a
curious shrub, or low tree, indigenous to the southern part of
the United States ; often seen in large collections of plants, in
gardens in New England. It is curious, from being covered
with bunches of flowers, of a rose color, before the leaves
begin to appear. They give a brilliant appearance to the
whole tree, except at the extremities of the branches.
The "Red Bud is beautiful in the spring, and not without
interest, in full foliage, in the summer.
CHIONANTHUS.
Chioncmtkus Virginica, or Fringe Tree. — This is a fine
deciduous shrub, or small tree, sometimes growing twenty feet
or more high, but flowering when six or eight feet high. It
has large leaves, six or eight inches long, and from two to three
inches wide ; the flowers white, in numerous long bunches, and
have a fringe-like appearance. It is a native of North Amer-
20
230 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
ica, and found growing upon the mountains at the South, and is
very hardy. A light loam suits it well, but propagation is dif-
ficult. It succeeds when budded or grafted on the ash.
CLETHRA.
This genus is composed mostly of American plants, and
succeeds well when transplanted to the shrubbery.
Clethra alnifolia. — Alder-leaved Clethra. — A shrub, from
two to eight feet high, showing a long spike of white fragrant
flowers, towards the end of summer. It is generally found
abundantly in wet, boggy places, and by the side of sluggish
streams. Emerson says : " This beautiful plant may be easily
cultivated, and is much improved by cultivation, the spikes
being increased in length, and in the size of the flowers. It
grows readily in any garden soil, and may be propagated by
layers or cuttings."
COLUTEA.
Bladder Senna.
Colutea, an ancient name of a bush with sweet-scented
flowers. The genus includes a number of species of shrubs,
with yellow or orange, pea-shaped flowers, which are succeeded
by seed-vessels like bladders.
C. arborescens grows about ten feet high, with yellow flowers,
in June and July. C. cruenta, four feet high, with reddish
flowers ; and C. Pocockii, with dark-yellow flowers. All are
free growers, and well adapted to introduce into extensive shrub-
beries.
CORNU8.
Cornel — Dogwood.
Cornus, from cornu, a horn ; the wood being thought to be
as hard and durable as horn. The larger species of this genus
CORNUS. 231
are very ornamental and hardy shrubs, mostly North American
plants, and are prized, not only for their flowers and berries of
different colors, but for their green, red, purple, or striped barks,
which have a fine effect in winter, especially among ever-
greens.
Cornus alter nifolia. — Alternate-leaved Cornel. — "A beau-
tiful shrub, six or eight feet high ; sometimes a graceful small
tree, of fifteen, twenty, or even twenty-five feet high, throwing
off, at one or more points, several branches, which, slightly
ascending, diverge, and form nearly horizontal umbrageous
stages, or flats of leaves, so closely arranged as to give almost
a perfect shade. Recent shoots, of a shining light-yellowish-
green, with oblong scattered dots. The older branches, of a
rich polished green, striped with gray. Flowers in an irregu-
larly branched head, yellowish-white; fruit, blue-black. A
beautiful plant, with a variety of character. It grows naturally
in most woods, or on the sides of hills ; but, when cultivated,
flourishes in almost any kind of soil, and even in dry situa-
tions. It flowers in May and June, and the fruit ripens in
October."
C. florida. — The Flowering Dogwood. — This species
is more of a tree than any of those described, and one of the
most desirable of all the genus. It is a conspicuous object, in
some of our woods, the last of May. The tree is then loaded
with a profusion of its large, showy, white flowers, which are
produced at the ends of the branches. What is generally taken
for the flower is not in reality such. The flowers are small, and
without much interest, except to the botanist. Twelve or more
of them are clustered together in a head, and surrounded by a
whorl of four large white floral leaves, which constitutes the
principal beauty of the flower. These floral leaves are nerved,
somewhat heart-shaped, shaded with flesh color, or purple ; the
fruit is of a bright-scarlet.
" The leaves early begin to change to purple, and turn to a
rich scarlet, or crimson, above, with a light-russet beneath ; or
to crimson and buff, or orange ground, above, with a glaucous-
232 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
purple beneath. These, surrounding the scarlet bunches of
berries, make the tree as beautiful an object, at the close of
autumn, as it was in the opening summer."
C. circinata. — Round-leaved Cornel. — " A spreading shrub,
usually not erect, from four to six, sometimes eight or ten, feet
high, with straight, slender, spreading branches. Young shoots,
green, profusely blotched with purple; old shoots, pale, yellow-
ish-green, or purplish, thickly dotted with prominent, wart-like
dots, or sometimes smooth." The flowers white, in roundish,
spreading, terminal heads, or cymes, in May ; fruit blue, turning
to whitish color ; ripe in October.
C. stolonifera. — Red-stemmed Cornel. — "A handsome
plant, conspicuous at all seasons of the year, but especially
towards the end of winter, for its rich red, almost blood-
colored stems and shoots. The main stem is usually prostrate
upon the ground, beneath withered leaves, throwing down
roots, and sending up slender, erect branches, from five to six
or eight feet high ; flowers white, in spreading cymose clusters ;
fruit white, or lead colored."
C. paniculata. — Panicled Cornel. — A shrub, about six
feet high, with erect branches, dotted, or speckled. " The
cymes, or heads of flowers, are very numerous, on long, slen-
der, pale-yellow stems, with irregular branches." Flowers,
white, in May and June, succeeded by white fruit, which ma-
tures in August and September, when the fruit-stalk is of a
delicate pale-scarlet."
CRATJEGUS.
The Thorn.
In relation to this genus Mr. Emerson remarks: — "It is
found that a greater variety of beautiful small trees and orna-
mental shrubs can be formed of the several species of Thom,
than of any kind of tree whatever. Thus they give persons,
whose grounds are not extensive, the means of ornamenting
CYDONIA. 233
their grounds with great facility. If trained as trees, they have
an appearance of singular neatness united with a good degree
of vigor ; and the readiness with which they are pruned and
grafted renders them susceptible of almost any shape which the
fancy of the owner would have them assume. Some of the
species, native to Massachusetts, often take, even in a state of
nature, the shape of handsome low trees. Of these, the
flowers and foliage have great beauty, and the scarlet haws,
which remain on into winter, till, ripened by frost, they are
gathered by the birds, give them additional charms. Into
these tall species all the others, very various, and many of them
very beautiful, may be grafted ; and not only thorns, but pears
and other fruits, may be readily made to grow on the Thorn."
The four principal species, natives of our State, are,
Cratcegus coccinnea, Scarlet-fruited Thorn ; C. tomentosa,
the Pear-leaved Thorn ; C. crus-galli, the Cockspur Thorn,
and C. punctata, the Dotted-fruited Thorn ; — all handsome,
with white, fragrant flowers, in clusters.
C. oxyacantha is the common Hawthorn of England, which
is also an ornamental shrub, as well as a very important one
for the formation of hedges. Of this species there are a num-
ber of beautiful varieties, which should be in every collection,
viz., rosea, with deep-red flowers ; double -white and double-
red, which are very beautiful, besides some others not so well
known.
CYDONIA.
Japan Quince.
Cydonia Japonica, formerly Pyrus Japonica, is indigenous to
Japan, and embraces two varieties, the scarlet and variegated
flowering. When in bloom, there is no plant that equals it
in splendor. The Cydonia may be seen budding and bursting
into bloom in April. The flowers are in aggregated clusters,
along the branches, interspersed with the young leaves. The
20*
234 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
hue of the scarlet color is most brilliant, and no artist can find
a tint that will convey an adequate idea of its splendor. The
paler variety is also much admired. The flowers of this are
of a fine blush, shaded with red, and, when contrasted with the
other, forms an agreeable relief. The perfect hardiness of the
shrub, and the brilliancy of the flowers, must ever render it an
agreeable appendage to the shrubbery, lawn, or flower-garden.
It is generaly propagated by layering and by suckers. It suc-
ceeds in any good garden loam. It commences flowering when
the plants are quite small. It grows from six to eight feet
high. A writer says : " One of the most pleasing and pictu-
resque objects we recollect ever to have seen, was a large
Cydonia, whilst in full bloom, partially imbedded in a late
snow; the branches weighed down thereby, and the rich, bril-
liant blossoms, peeping through their chaste covering."
CYTISUS.
Laburnum.
A genus of ornamental trees and shrubs, of which the La-
burnums are generally well known as highly ornamental.
Cytisus laburnum. — Golden Chain. — A tall and elegant
shrub, or low tree, which, when in bloom, is laden with long,
pendulous clusters of golden pea-shaped flowers, similar in
shape to those of the Robinia, or Acacia. It is exceedingly
rich and beautiful when in bloom, the last of May and June;
grows from ten to thirty feet high.
The Purple-flowering Laburnum, C. purpurea, has dull-
purple flowers ; grows three feet high.
C. leucanthus has cream-colored flowers ; four feet high. The
Golden Chain is the most desirable of all the species or vari-
eties.
There are many other fine species and varieties, of which
some of them are low shrubs ; all ornamental.
DAPHNE DEUTZIA. 235
DAPHNE.
Pink Mazereon.
Daphne mazereon is a handsome shrub; the flowers come
out before the leaves, early in the spring ; they grow in clus-
ters, all round the shoots of the former year,
" Though leafless, well attired, and thick beset
With blushing wreaths, investing every spray."
The flowers are succeeded by brilliant-scarlet berries, which
are said to be a powerful poison. Another variety, with white
flowers, has yellow berries. This shrub is in bloom early in
April. It is sweet-scented ; and, where there are many to-
gether, they will perfume the air to a considerable distance.
The best time for transplanting is in the autumn ; because, as
it begins to vegetate early in the spring, it should not then be
disturbed. It thrives best in a dry soil ; if it has too much
wet, it becomes mossy, and stinted in growth, and produces
fewer flowers.
DEUTZIA.
The genus was named by Thunberg, in compliment to John
Deutz, one of the senators of Amsterdam, a patron of botany,
and one of the promoters of the voyage of the former to Japan.
The genus is nearly related to Philadelphus. A very ele-
gant shrub, native of Japan and China, and introduced from
the latter country a few years ago, by Mr. Eeeves, to whom
our gardens are indebted for many other equally interesting
plants from the same quarter. It is a plant of easy culture,
being sufficiently hardy to endure our winters in the open air,
and easily increased both by cuttings and layers.
During the early part of summer, the Deutzia is covered by
a profusion of white blossoms, which are highly fragrant. The
rough leaves of the plant, Thunberg informs us, are employed
236 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
by the Japanese cabinet-makers for polishing- wood, in the
manner that the sterns of the Equisetum hyemale are with us.
DIERVILLA.
Diervilla trifida. — Three-flowered Bush Honeysuckle. —
This is a pretty native shrub, from two to four feet high, with
handsome opposite leaves, from the axils of which spring three
yellow, honeysuckle-shaped flowers in July.
DIRCA.
Dirca palustris. — Leather Wood. — This is a much branched
shrub, from three to six feet high, found in wet, marshy, and
shady places. It is conspicuous, when in flower in April, for
the number of yellow blossoms, which fade and fall rapidly as
the leaves expand. The wood is very pliable, and the bark of
singular toughness and tenacity. It has such strength that a
man cannot pull apart so much as covers a branch of half or
third of an inch in diameter. It is used for millers and others
for thongs. The aborigines used it as a cordage.
EL^AGNUS.
Oleaster.
Elceagnus, from the Greek, an olive ; the tree having a
striking resemblance to the olive tree. Shrubs, or small trees,
ten or fifteen feet high.
E. angustifolia, and E. a?'gentea, are shrubs or low trees, with
elegant silvery foliage, their only recommendation.
EPIGJEA EUONYMUS. 237
EPIG.EA.
Ground Laurel.
The generic name is from Greek words, signifying upon the
earth. The woody, hairy stems grow flat upon the ground,
and throw out roots all the length of its branches.
Epigcea repens. — May Flower. — This beautiful, fragrant
flower is found in many parts of the country, and is worthy of a
place in the flower-garden ; no doubt it will succeed well when
grown among shrubs where it will be partially shaded. It is in
flower in April. It produces delicate flesh-colored or white
flowers, and sometimes is found with light-red blossoms. Mr.
Emerson says : " It abounds in the edges of woods, about Plym-
outh, as elsewhere, and must have been the first flower to
salute the storm-beaten crew of the Mayflower on the conclu-
sion of their first terrible winter. Their descendants have
thence piously derived the name, although its bloom is often
past before the coming in of the month of May." The stems
of the plant are several feet in length, generally covered with
the fallen leaves. The flower-stems are thrown up at inter-
vals of two or three inches, three or four inches high, produc-
ing flowers in crowded clusters. The flower-buds are formed
in August. Leaves evergreen.
EUONYMUS.
Spindle Tree — Strawberry Tree.
Euonymus Americanus. — Burning Bush. — An elegant
shrub, growing eight or ten feet high, producing rather incon-
spicuous purple flowers in clusters, which are succeeded by
brilliant scarlet fruit, that remains after the foliage has fallen ;
highly ornamental. The foliage is handsome ; the branches
erect, of a fresh green color. There is a variety with purplish-
238 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
red berries, and another with white berries. Upon the opening
of the valve which encloses the berry, the white variety show
to great advantage, the valve being white, and the berry a light
scarlet. The berries are produced in great profusion. Plants
may be raised from seed, which should be planted in autumn;
or by layers or cuttings.
E. Europceus. — The European Spindle Tree. — This is a
handsome evergreen shrub, with deep shining-green leaves,
with a variety having silver-edged leaves. The European
species and varieties are somewhat tender in this latitude.
They should be planted in a sheltered, shady place.
FAGUS.
Beech.
The Beech is a fine tree, suitable for ornamental pleasure-
grounds, but too large for the shrubbery.
The Purple Beech is a European variety, propagated by
grafting upon the common species. It is a small tree, but
may be kept within bounds by pruning in, and is very de-
sirable in a collection of shrubs, on account of its dark-purple,
almost black, leaves. The younger leaves are purplish-crim-
son, and present a brilliant appearance during the bright sun-
shine. In summer the foliage loses its brilliant tints, the leaves
changing to a purplish-green.
No collection of shrubs should be deficient of the Purple, or
Copper Beech, as it is sometimes called. The contrast between
this and most other shrubs is very marked. The Weeping
Beech is another desirable variety ; its drooping pendulous
branches are very ornamental. Propagated in the same way
as the other, either by budding, grafting, or inarching.
FRAXINUS HALESIA. 239
FRAXINUS.
Ash.
The Ash is a well-known valuable timber tree, and suitable
for avenues, but not for the shrubbery, unless on a large scale.
The Weeping Ash, or F. pendula, is a variety of F. excel-
sior, first discovered in a field at Gamblingay, Cambridgeshire,
England. This is propagated by grafting, or inarching upon
the common Ash. It looks well in the shrubbery, but more
particularly upon a lawn by itself; the branches will droop to
the ground, and form a handsome weeping head. There are
other varieties, with curled or variegated leaves, which are
desirable in making up an extensive collection.
HALESIA.
Snow-drop Tree.
Halesia tetraptera. — Four-winged Halesia. — A native of
Carolina, where it is found growing on the banks of rivers. It
is an ornamental shrub, five or six feet high, valuable for its
early flowering in May. The flower hangs in small bunches
all along the branches, each bud producing from four to eight
or nine ; they appear before the leaves, and are of a snowy
whiteness, and last for two or three weeks.
Halesia diptera. — Two-winged Silver Bell Tree. — This
species is described in Downing's first volume of the Horticul-
turist as follows : — " The present species is a much rarer one
than the last. Its native country is Georgia and Carolina, but it
is hardy here, and is well entitled to a prominent place in the
pleasure-grounds. It differs very strongly from the common
species, in both the larger size and the purer white of the flow-
ers, and also in foliage, which is twice as broad as that of the
four-winged sorts. The seeds have, as the name indicates,
240 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
only two-winged appendages. Though this species is fre-
quently advertised for sale, yet it is rarely found true to
name. There are two or three fine specimens of the true
Halesia diptera in the excellent nursery-grounds of Mr. William
Reid, at Murray Hill, New York city, which have strongly
excited our admiration whenever we have seen them in bloom.
They blossom in June, three or four weeks later than H.
tetrapte.ra ; the blossoms are large and numerous, and of a pure
and snowy whiteness, and remain a good while in flower.
Altogether, we consider the Two-winged Silver Bell as a hardy
shrub of great beauty, and one that should be largely propa-
gated, and introduced into every collection. It cannot be very
difficult to obtain seeds from the South, and Mr. Reid informs
us that this species ripens seeds in the open borders of his
grounds."
HEDEKA.
English Ivy.
Hedera helix. — Common Ivy. — The ancients held Ivy in
great esteem, and Bacchus is represented as crowned with it
to prevent intoxication. It is a highly esteemed ornamental
evergreen climber, and much used in England for covering
naked buildings or trees, or for training into fanciful shapes, or
trained up a stake so as to form a standard.
In this country it is not very common, but it appears to suc-
ceed well in shady collections. There are some specimens in
the city of Boston, which flourish finely upon the rough granite
or brick walls of buildings. It is easily propagated by cuttings
or layers. There are a number of varieties of this, of which
all are desirable, growing to a great height, and attaching itself
firmly to whatever it grows upon, without any assistance.
HIBISCUS ILEX. 241
HIBISCUS.
Jllthaafrutex.
Hibiscus Syriacus. — The Althea is a well-known ornamental
shrub, of easy cultivation ; but a little tender in some situa-
tions, particularly the double white variety. They grow freely
from cuttings, from which the double varieties are multiplied ;
or very easily from seed, for single varieties. We think some
of the single varieties are equally handsome as the double, and
generally more hardy. There is the double white, red, blue
and white, with stripes, or blotches, and others.
ILEX.
The Holly.
Ilex, a name of unknown origin. In England, innumerable
varieties have been raised from Hex aquifolium, a low tree, or
shrub, which vary in the margin and size, or in the variegation
of the leaves. Being evergreens, they are highly esteemed for
the shrubbery, for small groups, or for lawns, and make a gay
appearance at all seasons of the year. The silver and gold-
edged varieties are very beautiful. The common green prickly-
leaved is used for hedges ; the only objection to it is its very
slow growth.
Alas ! were it not for our changeable climate, we, too, might
have this desirable family of plants in our shrubberies and bor-
ders. They do not succeed well in the New England States ;
probably they may thrive in sheltered places, where not much
exposed to the sun. They are worthy of many trials.
Ilex opaca. — The American Holly. — This species is found
plentifully in some parts of Massachusetts. Mr. Emerson
says of it : — " The American Holly is a handsome, low tree,
with nearly horizontal branches, and thorny, evergreen leaves.
The berries are scarlet, and remain on the tree into the winter.
21
242 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
It flowers in June. It has considerable beauty, and is particu-
larly valuable for retaining its bright green leaves through the
year, and for its scarlet berries. The leaves are seldom touched
by an insect. On these accounts it deserves cultivation as an
ornamental tree. It has great resemblance to the European
Holly, which makes the most durable hedge of any plant what-
ever, and one which is kept in repair, when once established,
at the least expense. The objection to it is the slowness of its
growth. Our tree is commonly found on a rather dry, sandy,
or rocky soil, but will grow on almost any. The European is
found to do best on a rich, sandy loam, in an open forest of
oak. It is propagated by seeds, or plants taken from the woods.
The seeds do not germinate for more than a year after sowing.
They are, therefore, kept in moist earth for a year after gather-
ing, after which they are sown at the depth of a quarter of an
inch in firm soil. The surface should be protected from heat
and drought by a covering of half-rotten leaves, or litter.
When transplanted, they should be protected for a while from
the heat of the sun. The best time for transplanting is early
in the spring, before the plant has begun to shoot."
The same may be said of the seeds of the Thorn, and many
others, as of the Holly. They will not vegetate till the second
spring after maturing, and are prepared by exposing them to
the action of the frost, by slightly covering with earth, thus
remaining till they are to be sown in beds, or drills.
KALMIA.
A small genus of handsome evergreen indigenous shrubs.
Kalmia, in honor of Peter Kalm, a pupil of Linnasus.
Kalmia latifolia. — Mountain Laurel, Spoon Wood, &c. —
Among the shrubs that embellish the scenery of the interior
of the country, this may be considered one of the most elegant.
Its general height is from five to ten feet, but may sometimes
be seen rising from fifteen to twenty feet, among the rocks
KALMIA. 243
and thickets, almost impenetrable by its crooked and unyield-
ing trunks, locked and entangled with each other. The leaves
are about three or four inches long, evergreen, giving much
life to the forests in the winter, by their deep shining-green.
The flowers are disposed in large corymbs, at the extremity of
the branches; numerous ; of a pure white, blush, or a beauti-
ful rose-color, and more rarely a deep red. The season of
flowering is in the months of June and July. Nothing can
exceed the magnificence of its appearance when in full bloom.
The soil in which it best succeeds is soft, loose, and cool, with
a northern exposure. The foliage is the richest when the plant
is grown in the shade. The soil suitable for its growth is the
same as recommended for the Azalea. Young plants, taken up
with balls of earth attached, will succeed well in the garden,
in the shade. Those from open pastures will flourish best, if
such can be found. There is no shrub, foreign or native, that
will exceed this in splendor, when well grown.
K. angvstifolia. — Narrow-leaved Kalmia. — This is a low
shrub, that covers large tracts of cold, moist land, in almost
every section of the country. It is a great nuisance to the
farmer, who looks suspiciously upon it, as it has the reputation
of being poisonous to sheep and other animals, which, for the
sake of variety or want of other food, sometimes feed upon it.
Cobbett says : " The little dwarf brush stuff, that infests the
plains of Long Island, is, under a fine Latin name, a choice
green-house plant in England, selling for a dollar when no
bigger than a handful of thyme." How large a handful he
does not say. " When in bloom," he remarks, " it resembles
a large bunch of Sweet William. It is so pretty, it is worth
having in a green-house, where it would probably blow in
April, on Long Island." Blooms in June and July ; flowers
red, or deep pink, and I have seen a white variety ; leaves
evergreen ; grows from one to two feet high.
244 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
KERRIA.
Kerria Japonica, formerly Corchorus Japonica. — Japan
Globe-flower. — This is an elegant shrub, growing three or
four feet high, producing a profusion of double yellow globular
flowers, from June to September. The branches are bright
deep-green ; the foliage handsome. It is a little tender in
some locations, the tops being frequently killed down ; but it
sends up fresh shoots, which flower the same season. It is
easily propagated by suckers.
LAURUS.
Laurus benzoin, or Fever Bush — or Benzoin odoriferum,
Spice Bush. — " The Spice Bush is a shrub, from four to ten
feet high, remarkable for its graceful form, and large, hand-
some leaves, particularly when found growing in the deep
shade of a moist forest. Such a situation, where it seems
most vigorous, is not favorable to the production of its flowers
and fruit. In April, or the first part of May, clusters of from
three to six flowers, of a greenish-yellow, on very short pedi-
cels, appear from buds, distinct from the leaf-buds, in the axils
of the last year's leaves. Fruit, a dark-red, or purple ; drupe,
(berry,) of an oval shape, in bunches from two to five. The
stem is short and stout, not so long as the drupe. The plant
derives its botanical name from its aromatic odor, resembling
gum benzoin. This is to some persons always disagreeable."
The proper soil for the Spice Bush is the same as that for
the Azalea, Rhododendron, &c.
LAVENDTJLA.
Lavender.
Lavendula, — so named for its use in fomentations and
baths.
LAVENDULA. 245
Lavendula spicata. — Spike-flowered Lavender. — This is a
most desirable dwarf shrub, with delicate glaucous foliage, with
spikes of blue flowers, in July; three feet high. The whole
plant is delightfully fragrant, but more particularly the flowers.
These yield the oil from which the Lavender water is made. In
some soils and situations the plant is tender. In cold, moist
soil, it is almost sure to be winter-killed ; but, in a dry, loamy,
or gravelly soil, it endures our winters with but little protection.
We have been successful in the cultivation of it in a soil of the
latter quality, and, from the flowers that grew upon the edging
of a circular bed, six feet in diameter, obtained more than one
ounce of the pure Lavender, one drop of which would perfume
a room. It is sometimes used for edgings, in milder climates,
but grows too high for general use. As an edging for a bed of
Moss Roses, we have seen it used with pleasing effect.
" The agreeable scent of Lavender is well known, since it is
an old and still a common custom [in England, we suppose,]
to scatter the flowers over linen, as some do rose leaves, for the
sake of their sweet odor."
" Pure Lavender, to lay in bridal gown."
Lavender water, too, as it is usually called, although it is
really spirit of wine scented with the oil of Lavender, is one of
our most common perfumes. " The stalks of the Lavender,
even when the flowers have been stripped away, have an agree-
able scent, and, if burnt, will diffuse it powerfully and pleas-
antly. To a Londoner, it becomes a kind of rural pleasure to
hear the cry of " Three bunches a penny, sweet Lavender ! "
" And Lavender, whose spikes of azure bloom
Shall be erewhile in arid bundles bound,
To lurk amidst the labors of the loom,
And crown her kerchiefs clean with micke rare perfume."
Lavender is easily propagated by cuttings, or slips. It is a
great pity that it is not perfectly hardy ; but as it is, with a
little choice in its location, it is easily preserved through the
21*
246 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
winter, and worthy of all the care and trouble that may be
given to its cultivation.
LIGUSTRUM.
Privet.
Ligustrum vulgare. — The Common Privet, or Prim. —
The Privet shrub is a native of Europe, and introduced from
thence to this country, and now has become domesticated in
many parts of New England. In England, the Privet is an
evergreen, or the leaves remain until driven off by new ones.
In this climate it is deciduous, shedding its leaves late in
autumn. " In France and Great Britain, the Privet is much
used for a hedge plant, either alone or with other plants. Its
use for this purpose is recommended by the beauty of the
foliage, the flowers and berries, by its rapid and easy
growth, and by the fact that it grows well under the drip of
other trees, except evergreens. It flourishes in almost any
soil, as may be easily seen from the variety of ground on
which it has sown itself in the vicinity of Boston ; and it is
propagated by seeds, or by cuttings, and requires very little
pruning. It grows in clumps, from strong, matted, bright-yellow
roots, in height six or eight feet. Flowers white, in short,
terminal panicles, in June ; the berries are of a shining black."
— (Emerson.}
The Privet blossom has been frequently celebrated for its
whiteness.
The Privet, too,
Whose white flowers rival the first drifts of snow
On Grampia's piny hills."
The blossom of the Privet, when exposed to the noonday sun,
withers almost as soon as blown. In the shade, it not only
lasts longer, but is much larger. The leaves, too, are much
larger and finer, when so placed.
LONICERA LYCIUM. 247
LONICERA.
Tartarean Honeysuckle.
All the species of this genus are upright, ornamental shrubs,
suitable for the shrubbery, of easy culture.
Lonicera Tartar ica. — Tartarean Honeysuckle. — This spe-
cies grows to the height of eight or ten feet, and is covered
with a profusion of pink flowers, in June, which are succeeded
by red berries. In foliage, flower, or fruit, this is a desirable
shrub, and thrives in almost any soil and situation. There is
a variety with white flowers and yellow berries. They are
natives of Russia, and are propagated easily by cuttings, lay-
ers, and seeds.
L. Ledebourii is a new species, said to be very handsome.
We imported a few plants last season. The foliage is hand-
some, and from the few flowers that appeared, it promises to be
an important addition to our ornamental shrubs.
LYCIUM.
Lycium, — so called because the original species was a na-
tive of Lycia.
Lycium barbarum. — Willow-leaved Lycium. — This is an
ornamental climbing shrub, valuable for covering, arbors, naked
walls, &c. It grows from four to six feet in a season. The
foliage is delicate, and the whole plant is covered with small,
but handsome, violet flowers, from May to August. It will grow
in almost any soil, and is easily propagated from cuttings and
from suckers. In the shrubbery, it may be permitted to ramble
at its pleasure, or trained to suit the fancy.
248 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
MAGNOLIA.
" This genus, named for Magnol, a distinguished botanist in
France, contains trees, except M. glauca, which, in the North-
ern States, is only a shrub ; all of them beautiful, and some of
them the finest and most splendid trees that are known.
" Magnolia glauca. — The most northern boundary of the
habitation of this beautiful plant is supposed to be in a shel-
tered swamp, near Cape Ann, and not far from the sea.
" Few ornamental plants are better worth the attention of the
gardener. Carefully trained, it forms a beautiful little tree. No
plant is, at any season and in every condition, more beautiful.
The flower, pure white, two or three inches broad, is as beauti-
ful and almost as fragrant as the White Lily. The fruit is
a cone, about two inches long, covered with scale-like, imbricated
ovaries, from which, when mature, escape the scarlet obovate
seeds, which, instead of falling at once to the ground, remain
some time suspended by a slender thread. The bark of the
young shoots is smooth and of a rich apple-green, afterwards
becoming of a soft glaucous or whitish color. Before opening,
the leaves are enclosed by the stipules, which, falling, leave
rings encircling the branch ; when young the leaves are cov-
ered with a pubescence, which, beneath, has a silken lustre."
— (Emerson.}
Although naturally growing in wet ground, it will flourish
in almost any good garden soil, if not exceedingly dry, particu-
larly if partially shaded from the sun. It may be propagated by
layers, — which require two years to root sufficiently, — or by
seed, if great care is observed.
Magnolia acuminata. — Acuminate-leaved Magnolia. — This
species attains the size of a large tree in a more southern cli-
mate. In» the neighborhood of Boston there are handsome
specimens of this magnificent tree, but not of a large size. The
flowers are very conspicuous, being five or six inches across,
of a bluish-white color, produced from May to July. The
MAGNOLIA. 249
foliage is very large. It produces cylindrical fruit, three or
four inches long, with the scarlet seeds depending from it.
Magnolia auriculata. — Ear-leaved Magnolia. — This is a
splendid tree, and does not grow to so large a size as the last,
but more beautifuly»for shape, foliage and flowers.
There are a number of species of this magnificent tribe, that
succeed very well as far north as Massachusetts, in sheltered
localities ; but they are not to be depended upon where
exposed to cold winds.
The Chinese Magnolias, according to Mr. Downing, are all
hardy, except one, (M. fuscata,} in the latitude of Newburg, N.
Y. Some of them we have seen flourishing in this vicinity,
and probably all will succeed here.
He says : " They are certainly among the most striking and
ornamental objects in our pleasure-grounds and shrubberies in
the spring. Indeed, during the months of April and the early
part of May, two of 'them, the White, or Conspicua, and Sou-
lange's Purple, or Saulangiana, eclipse every other floral object,
whether tree or shrub, that the garden contains. Their numer-
ous branches, thickly studded with large flowers, most classi-
cally shaped, with thick, kid-like petals, and rich, spicy odor,
wear an aspect of novelty and beauty among the smaller blos-
soms of the more common trees and shrubs that blossom at that
early time, and really fill the beholder with delight. The Chi-
nese White Magnolia (M. conspicua) is, in effect of its blos-
soms, the most charming of all Magnolias. The flowers, in
color a pure, creamy white, are produced in such abundance,
that the tree, when pretty large, may be seen at a great dis-
tance.
" The Chinese name, Gulan, literally, Lily-tree, is an apt and
expressive one, as the blossoms are not much unlike those of the
White Lily in size and shape, when fully expanded. Among
the Chinese poets, they are considered the emblem of candor
and beauty."
Mr. Downing speaks of a tree, about twenty feet high, planted
on the lawn in front of his house about fourteen years ago, on
250 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
which there were, the season previous, three thousand blossoms
open upon it at once. " The branches spread over a space of
fifteen feet in diameter, and the stem, near the ground, eight
inches in diameter. Its growth highly symmetrical. For the
last ten years it has never, in a single season, failed to produce
a fine display of blossoms." He states, that its usual period of
blossoming is from the fifth to- the twenty-fifth of April. It is
grafted on the Cucumber Tree, (M. acuminata,) which he sup-
poses renders the tree more hardy and vigorous than it would
be on its own stock or root.
" The next most ornamental Chinese Magnolia," he says,
" is Soulange's Purple, (Magnolia Soulangiana.} This is a
hybrid seedling, raised by the late Chevalier Soulange Bodin,
the distinguished French horticulturist. The habit of the tree
is closely similar to that of the conspicua ; its blossoms, equally
numerous, are rather larger, but the outside of the petals is
finely tinged with purple. It partakes of the character of both
its parents, having the growth of Magnolia conspicua, arid the
color of M. purpurea, (or, indeed, a lighter shade of purple.)
Its term of blooming is, also, mid-way between that of these
two species, being about a week later than that of the white,
or Gulan Magnolia. It is also perfectly hardy in this latitude,"
The Magnolia purpurea is sometimes seen in large gardens
about Boston, but is a little tender. " It is a shrub of six to
eight feet high. The blossoms are white within, of a fine
dark-lilac or purple on the outside, and quite fragrant, like the
others." The flowers begin to open early in May, and con-
tinue blooming a number of weeks, or, if in the shade, through
most of the summer. M. gracilis differs from the purple-flow-
ering only in its more slender growth, and narrower leaves and
petals.
The same gentleman remarks, that, " If these noble flowering
trees have a defect, it is one which is inseparable from the
early period at which they bloom, viz., that of having few or
no leaves when the blossoms are in their full perfection ;" and
suggests, that the planting of the American Arbor Vitas arid
MAHONIA PAULO WNIA. 251
Hemlock, would remedy this defect, by forming a dark-green
background, on which the beautiful masses of Magnolia flow-
ers would appear to great advantage.
MAHONIA.
Makonia aquifolium. — Ilex-leaved Mahonia. — This is an
elegant evergreen shrub, three or four feet high, with clusters
of yellow flowers, in May or June, succeeded by bunches of
blue berries. The leaves are compound, with somewhat
prickly points, very glossy green, inclining to purplish-brown,
and, in those that are young, various shades of crimson and
purple, giving the plant a very rich appearance. The foliage
remains in perfection during the winter, where screened from
the sun by trees, or covered with snow or straw. In autumn
the foliage is very gay, as on the same plant there will be
bright-green, purple, brown and crimson leaves.
PAULOWNIA.
Paulownia imperiaJAs. — This is a magnificent tree, of recent
introduction. To all appearances it will not grow to a very
large size in our climate. As it is perfectly hardy it will be a
rich addition to our collection for the shrubbery or lawn. We
have not yet seen the flowers. We planted a number of trees
three years since, which endured the two last winters to per-
fection. These trees were not pruned, but the branches were
permitted to strike out near the ground for the purpose of lay-
ering. As they now appear, they would be ornamental in the
shrubbery, even without bloom, on account of their showy
foliage. Mr. Downing has given us a description of this tree,
in the Horticulturist, and we will give his full and interesting
description of it as. we find it in vol. i., page 16 : —
252 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
" The striking peculiarity of the Paulownia, however, is its
showy foliage. The leaves are the shape of those of the Ca-
talpa, but of a darker green, perhaps resembling more closely
those of a large Sun-flower — being broad and heart-shaped.
In rich soil the growth of the tree is extremely rapid — young
plants making shoots of eight or ten feet in a season, and on
such we have measured leaves a foot and a half in diameter.
But on older trees they are usually about half that size.
" The flowers are produced in April, in panicles, at the ends
of the branches. They resemble in general appearance those
of the Catalpa, but the color is a pale-bluish violet. The seeds
are borne in an oval capsule as large as a pigeon's egg.
" When the Paulownia was first introduced into the Garden
of Plants, at Paris, it was treated as a delicate green-house
plant. It was soon found, however, that it was perfectly hardy
on the Continent and in England. In this country, it appears
equally so. The trees in this latitude have stood the past two
winters, even in exposed situations, without covering, and have
not lost an inch of the previous season's growth. We, there-
fore, consider it a hardier tree than the Catalpa, which often
suffers badly from the cold of this latitude. Nothing is easier
than the propagation of this tree. Single buds will grow, like
those of the Mulberry and the Vine, taken off early in the spring,
and covered about an inch deep in the soil of a fresh hot-bed.
The cuttings of the young shoots, planted under a hand-glass
in a shady border, strike root readily. But by far the easiest
and most rapid mode is that of planting pieces of the roots.
" Every little piece of the root of the Paulownia will, under
certain conditions, produce a plant. It is only necessary to
make a common hot-bed early in the spring, reduce the roots
of the parent tree, (and it will bear a very severe reduction,)
and plant every piece that will make a cutting not smaller than
a goose-quill, and a couple of inches long. Plant these bits of
roots about an inch and a half deep in the rich, light soil of the
hot-bed. In a fortnight's time every bit will throw up a bud,
make new roots, and become a distinct plant. When the plants
PEONY PHILADELPHIA. 253
are about three inches high, they may be transplanted into
rows, beds, borders, or, in short, wherever they are finally to
grow. If the season is favorable, they will grow to the height
of from three to six feet before the close of the autumn. Next
year, if the soil is deep, they will make shoots eight or ten feet
long.
" When the Paulownia was first offered for sale in Europe,
about three years ago, it was advertised by the Brothers Ban-
man n, the great nurserymen of the Rhine, at from three to six
guineas per plant. From the rapidity with which the nursery-
men are propagating it now, in this country, we have no doubt
it may be bought next autumn, at wholesale, at about the same
price per hundred trees.
" The parent tree, in the Jardin des Plantes, Paris, has
already borne seeds, in considerable quantity ,'which have vege-
tated very regularly. The tree has not yet, to our knowledge,
flowered in this country, but will probably do so next spring.
As soon as the seeds are produced in abundance, we advise cul-
tivators to resort to them — the best of all modes of propagat-
ing ornamental trees — when it is possible to do so."
PEONY.
PcBonia moutan, and its varieties, are magnificent plants for
the front rank in the shrubbery ; — for description of them, and
modes of culture, see Peeonia, under the head of Bulbous and
Tuberous Roots. — See page 68.
PHILADELPHIA.
Syringa.
From Ptolemy Philadelpkus, King of Egypt. It is also
called Mock Orange.
22
254 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
The Syringa is a most delicious shrub : the foliage is luxuri-
ant, the blossom beautiful and abundant, , white as the purest
Lily, and of the most fragrant scent. In a room, indeed, this per-
fume is too powerful, but in the air it is remarkably agreeable.
There is a variety which has no scent, and also a dwarf variety,
which does not usually exceed three feet in height. The flow-
ers sweet, and some double.
"The sweet Syringa, yielding but in scent
To the rich Orange, or the Woodbine wild,
That loves to hang on barren boughs, remote,
Her wreaths of flowery perfume."
All the species are propagated by suckers, layers, or cuttings,
and thrive in any good garden soil.
P. grandiftorus. — Large-flowering Syringa. — This is the
handsomest of the genus. It is perfectly hardy, growing in
any soil or situation, forming a spreading shrub about six feet
or more high ; flowering in June and July.
P. hirsutus. — This shrub grows from four to five feet high.
Like the last, it is a native of North America, where it was
discovered by Mr. Nuttall. It thrives in the shrubbery in any
common garden soil, and is propagated like the others.
P. coro?iarius, — or Common Syringa, — greatly resembles
the other ; grows about five feet high, and is delightfully fra-
grant when in bloom. Flowers in June and July.
PEUNUS.
Plum.
The genus are natives of North America, Europe, and Asia.
Many of them are thorny plants in the wild state. They have
showy flowers, in clusters. Some of the species are esteemed
ornamental.
Prunus ccmdicans. — This is a delightful, hardy, deciduous
shrub, growing about six or eight feet high. It is very easy
PYRUS. 255
of cultivation, and in May and June, when in full flower, is a
perfect picture, the white flowers nearly hiding the young
leaves, which are beginning at that time to cover the branches.
It may either be propagated by layers, or by budding and
grafting on the common plum stock.
P. sibirica scarcely grows so large as the candicans ; thrives
well in almost any soil and situation, and makes a pretty orna-
ment when in flower. It may be increased both by layers and
budding, or grafting on a common plum stock.
PYRUS.
The Apple, the Pear, the Service, the Beam tree, and the
Mountain Ash, besides several less important plants, belong to
this genus.
Pyrus coronaria. — Sweet-scented Crab. — This beautiful
Crab tree is a native of North America. It grows upwards of
twenty feet high. In May, when it flowers, a delightful fra-
grance is emitted, which in the evening perfumes the whole of
that part of the garden. It will grow in almost any low situa-
tion, and may be propagated by grafting on other crab stocks,
or by layers.
P. floribunda. — This forms a broad-spreading, but not very
lofty, bush, which in spring is thickly covered with blossoms,
and in autumn with purple berries. It grows freely in com-
mon garden soil, and may be propagated by the same means
as coronaria.
P. spuria. — A small deciduous shrub, very hardy, and easy
of propagation. Grafted upon the common stock, or crab or
pear stocks, it grows very freely.
P. angustifolia. — This very pretty shrub rarely loses all its
leaves ; for, although not an evergreen, the leaves of the previ-
ous year seldom fall until new ones are produced. It resem-
bles in size P. coronaria, seldom growing above eight feet
high. It is propagated by grafting on the crab stock, and by
256 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
layers. Flowers pink, in May. Grows from ten to twenty
feet high.
P. prunifolia. — Siberian Crab. — This well-known species
is a native of Siberia. It is not only ornamental in flower,
but in fruit. There are two varieties, one with scarlet, the
other with yellow, fruit. The fruit is sometimes used as a
preserve, but it is more ornamental than useful. The tree
grows fifteen to twenty feet high ; in flower in May. Propa-
gated by grafting or budding.
P. Americana. — American Mountain Ash. — This shrub,
or small tree, has a strong resemblance to the European Moun-
tain Ash, but is much more dwarf and bushy. It grows sixteen
to twenty feet high. The flowers, which expand early in
June, are white. The fruit is first orange, then turns to a
bright-scarlet, and very much like the imported species.
P. aucupana. — European Mountain Ash. — This is more
graceful in its habits than the American species, making quite
a handsome tree, of twenty-five or thirty feet in height. The
foliage of both kinds is graceful, but this species is the most
delicate. The berries are more compact, and produced in
great profusion. These constitute the great ornament of the
tree.
Mr. Emerson informs us " that the English Mountain Ash
is commonly known in England by the name of Rowan or
Roan-tree, and, in some districts, Witchen, and has long been
considered of sovereign power against witches and evil spirits,
and all their fascinations and spells. For this purpose it was
made into walking-sticks, or branches of it were hung about
the house or about stables and cow-houses. In a stanza of an
ancient song, quoted by the author of ' Sylvan Sketches,' we
have : —
( Their spells were vain ; the hags returned
To the queen in sorrowful mood,
Crying that witches have no power
Where there is Roan-tree wood.'
She adds, — ' This last line leads to the true reading of a line
RHAMNUS. 257
*•
in Shakspeare's tragedy of Macbeth. The sailor's wife, on
the witch's requesting some chestnuts, hastily answers, " A
rowan-tree, witch ! " but all the editions have, " Aroint thee,
witch ! " which is nonsense, and evidently a corruption.'
" As the Rowan-tree grows freely in the most exposed situa-
tions, it is often planted as a nurse to young trees of slow
growth, exposed to the sea-breeze, and it has the great advan-
tage of not growing above a certain height, so that when it has
performed its office it does not interfere with the growth of the
oaks and other trees for whose benefit they were planted. It
flourishes best in a good moist soil, in any easy exposure."
The trees are easily raised from the seed. If sown in
autumn, the young plants will appear in eighteen months.
RHAMNUS.
The Buckthorn.
Rhamnus, — from the Celtic ram, signifying branching. A
genus of shrubby plants, of no great interest, except for their
medicinal qualities, or for the uses of their berries for dyes or
paints, or the wood of some species for carving into images.
R. cathartica, — the Common Buckthorn, — is a well-
known shrub, or small tree, " the fruit of which was formerly
employed, in medicine, as a purgative, but it is too violent and
drastic to be safely used, and is now chiefly confined to veteri-
nary practice, to which it is well adapted. The saflron-
colored juice of the unripe berries, called French berries by
dyers, is used as paint and a dye. Sap-green is made of the
inspissated juice of the ripe berries, with alum and gum
Arabic. If gathered very late, they yield a purple, instead of
a green, color. The bark furnishes a beautiful yellow dye, or,
dried, it colors brown. The wood of the roots is yellowish-
brown, with a satin lustre, and very compact, and may be
employed by the turner." — (Emerson.}
22*
258 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
The great value of the Buckthorn, with us, is for hedges*
It is perfectly hardy, grows rapidly, and bears pruning better
than any other shrub with which we are acquainted. Another
important item in its value is, that it is never attacked by
insects of any description. It is, also, very tough, and nourishes
in any soil. No animal, except sheep or goats, will feed upon
it. We consider it, therefore, the only plant for general use
for the formation of hedges. " It puts forth its leaves early in
the spring, and retains them late in the fall, arid its bunches of
rich berries are very showy in autumn."
The plants are easily raised from seed, which may be planted
either in the fall or very early in the spring. When planted
in autumn, it may be done as soon as the berries mature.
The berries should be first mashed and washed, so that they
may be planted more evenly. The seed may be sown in drills
eighteen inches apart, or in beds. The fall-sown seed will
vegetate very early in the spring, while those sown in the
spring will not appear under four or five weeks from the time
of planting. The second year, the plants may be transferred to
the nursery, and should be headed down as soon as they begin
to grow. This causes them to thicken at the bottom ; a very
important point to be remembered, for unless they are first
grown with branches from the bottom, no after cultivation can
remedy the neglect.
The best hedges we have seen were those where the plants
were placed in a single line, six inches distant from each other.
RHODODENDRON.
American Rose Say.
Rhododendron maximum. — The generic name is derived
from the Greek, rhodon, a rose, and dendron, a tree, because
the flowers resemble, in color, bunches of roses. In the North-
ern States, it is a straggling shrub, of very irregular growth,
RHODODENDRON. 259
but one of the most magnificent in foliage and flower the coun-
try can boast of. It is abundant in the Middle States, and in
the mountainous tracts of the Southern, but in New England
rare. It is found near Portland, Leicester, and in a swamp in
Medfield, in this state.
The Rhododendron is generally under ten feet in height in
this part of the country, but sometimes attains the height of
twenty or twenty-five feet in a less rigorous climate. The
places where it is found, in New England, may be considered as
beyond its proper natural limits, and it will be met with only in
warm swamps, under the shelter of evergreens, and where the
roots are protected by water, which usually overflows these
places.
The flower-buds are often destroyed, even thus situated, in
very severe seasons. When the leaves are beginning to
unfold themselves they are rose-colored, and covered with red
down. When fully expanded, they are smooth, five or six
inches long, of an elongated oval form, and of a thick coria-
ceous texture. They are evergreen, and partially renewed once
in three or four years. It puts forth flowers in June and July,
.which are, commonly, rose-colored, with yellow or orange dots
on the inside, and sometimes pure white, or shaded with lake.
They are always collected at the extremity of the branches, in
beautiful groups, which derive additional lustre from the foliage
that surrounds them. Previous to its expansion, the whole
bud forms one large compound bud, resembling a strobilus or
cone, each individual one being covered by a rhomboidal bracte,
which falls off when the flower expands. The corolla is mo-
nopetalous, (one piece or petal,) funnel-shaped, with a short tube,
the border divided into five large, unequal segments. There
is but a small chance of plants succeeding which have been
taken from swamps. The surest way to propagate it is by seed,
from which it readily grows, but requires time and patience to
bring it into a flowering state.
Shade and humidity seem almost indispensable to the growth
of this shrub. Deeply shaded situations, where the atmosphere
260 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
is laden with vapors, are most congenial to its growth. It is,
therefore, well calculated for the shrubbery. With a little
attention, it may be inured to stand the sun, and then forms a
stately ornament for the lawn or grass-plot. The proper soil
is a light, rich, peaty loam, with moisture. It will grow, how-
ever, in almost any, and flourish on a strong, heavy loam.
It may be propagated from cuttings and layers, from young,
healthy branches of ripened wood, and, managed as ordinary
plants, thus increased. There are many exotic species, which
are beautiful, and highly ornamental to the green-house. R.
ponticum and many others will withstand the winter in the
open ground, if well protected, as most of them are natives of
cold, mountainous regions, and covered in the winter by Alpine
snows.
R. maximum is one of the parents from which a numerous
family of splendid varieties have been produced, all equally
hardy, and are only to be known, and their cultivation under-
stood, to make them more common. The Messrs. Hoveys
have exhibited, at the Horticultural Rooms, the flowers of many
splendid varieties, grown in their nurseries, at Cambridge, in
the open ground, fully exposed to the sun, in a rather lowr
moist location, and a peaty soil.
PROPAGATION OF RHODODENDRON BY LAYERS.
" When the plants are in full growth, merely peg down the
young shoots, without any incision, and cover them with about
two inches of soil, and by the following spring they will be
ready to separate.
" Cuttings of half-ripened wood, planted under a hand-glass,
in September, on a north border, in peat earth, will often strike
and make good plants, but layers are preferable.
" Separating the plant at the roots. — This is merely tearing
off, or separating with a sharp knife, those branches with roots
attached to them, which is the case when many branching
stems spring from the same root.
" By seed. — Sow the seed on a bed of peat soil, (heath
RHODORA RHUS. 26 1
mould,) if there is a considerable quantity ; but if only a small
portion, sow in a pan, or box, because of the ease with which
the latter can be protected by placing it in a frame. If sown
on a bed, shelter the plants while young, from heavy rains, &c.,
by mats, or hoops. Transplant, when large enough, into other
beds, or into pots, and continue to shift them, every two years,
till they are large enough to plant into their permanent situ-
ations."
RHODORA.
False Honeysuckle.
On the margin of swamps and in wet meadows may be
found the Rhodora canadensis, a beautiful shrub, frequently in
large masses, of many yards in circumference, and when in
bloom, in May, presents a magnificent appearance.
The flowers appear on the extremity of the branches before
the leaves are perfectly expanded, are of a fine purple, in shape
somewhat resembling the Honeysuckle, whence its common
name, False Honeysuckle ; from two to three feet high.
I have been successful with this fine shrub, by taking large
masses of it from the meadows, with the earth attached to the
roots, and planting in a most soil ; also, by taking the suckers,
which it throws up as freely as the Lilac. It will flourish with-
out much difficulty.
RHUS.
Sumach.
Rhus, — derived from the same root as Rosa, rhudd, in Cel-
tic, signifying red; on account of the color of the fruit.
Some of the species are valuable in the arts, for tanning,
dyeing, varnish, &c. The Sumachs are much cultivated for
their singularity, and for the beauty of the foliage, especially
in autumn, when it assumes the richest colors. " The most
elegant species cannot be safely admitted into a garden, on
account of their poisonous qualities."
262 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
Rhus typhina. — Stag's-Horn Sumach. — This is one of the
safe species, and highly ornamental in the shrubbery, on
account of its elegant compound leaves and bunches of rich
scarlet berries. The shrub, which grows to the height of twelve
to twenty feet, is ugly shaped, its branches being rather naked
and crooked. It must, therefore, be planted with other shrubs,
so as to conceal, as much as possible, the crooked, irregular
stems and branches. There is no particular beauty in the
flowers ; but in July and August the heads of berries begin to
assume a rich scarlet color, afterwards turning to purple, and
remain conspicuous and beautiful into winter ; while in autumn
the leaves begin early to turn, and become of a red color, with
various shades of yellow, orange, and purple. The ends of
the branches, from their irregularity and the abundant down
with which they are covered, resemble the young horns of the
stag, whence their name.
Rhus copallina, — The Mountain Sumach, — is another
beautiful species, " found growing on dry rocks, or sandy hills,
about the same height of the last, in favorable, protected situ-
ations, but usually about three to five feet. The varnished pol-
ish of the leaves, and the rich purple they assume in autumn,
as well as the scarlet of the leafy heads of fruit, make this
species one of the most beautiful of the genus."
Rhus.glabra. — The Smooth Sumach. — This is a hand-
some, spreading, leafy bush, usually four to six, rarely ten, feet
high. The leaves are compound, smooth, of a rich green.
The flowers are disposed of in a large green head, of yellow-
ish-green color, and agreeable fragrance. The velvety crimson
heads of berries on this plant, as on the others, are very acid
and astringent. The leaves are used in tanning.
Rhus cotinus. — Venetian Sumach, or Smoke Tree. — This
species is much cultivated as an ornamental shrub. It is a
crooked, straggling growing plant, from ten to fifteen feet high.
No attempt should be made to make it grow straight by prun-
ing, as it looks the best when left to itself, clothed with branches
to the ground. Persons ignorant of the habits of the shrub,
RHUS.
263
often complain of nurserymen because they do not give them
regular-shaped plants ; but this is impossible, nor is it desira-
ble3.
The foliage is handsome; the flowers are disposed of in
large panicles, first green, changing to a reddish-brown, and
afterwards a brownish smoke color. The flowers, or append-
ages to them, have the appearance of downy silk, in light,
airy masses, and, as the plant is nearly covered with these
graceful clusters, have some resemblance to puffs of smoke
emerging from the graceful leaves.
It is propagated from layers, very readily, and probably from
seed, which, however, we have never seen. It is well adapted
to the shrubbery.
" In Greece and Russia, the shrub is used for tanning, and for
dyeing a rich, beautiful yellow, and in Italy and about Venice,
for dyeing black, and also for tanning."
The poisonous species of Rhus to be avoided are, R. venenata
and R. toxicodendron.
Rhus venenata. — The Poison Sumach, or Dogwood. —
" This is the most poisonous woody plant of New England.
Some persons are so susceptible to its influence as to be poi-
soned by the air blowing from it, or being near a fire on which
it is burning. The poison shows itself in painful and long-
continued swellings and eruptions of the face and hands, and
other parts of the body. The effects are exasperated by smell-
ing or handling the plant. Other persons handle and rub it,
and even chew and swallow the leaves, with impunity.
" The Poison Sumach is, perhaps, the most beautiful plant of
the swamps." It is a shrub from eight to fifteen feet in height.
The leaves are compound, having from three to thirteen leaf-
lets, that are attached to the mid-rib without much if any stem,
or, as the botanist terms it, " nearly sessile." The leaves are
a dark-green, with a rich polish ; the veins of a purplish-red
above, much paler, sometimes downy, beneath.
The flowers, which are small and greenish-yellow, are in open,
loose panicles, ten or twelve inches long, from the axils of the
264 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
leaves. These are succeeded by pendent clusters of whitish
berries. The writer has had painful experience, in his younger
days, of the bad influence of this plant upon his person, having
been thoroughly poisoned a number of times by approaching
it. I imagined that it would poison me when I came near
the plant, even without a touch ; therefore, always carefully
avoided it.
R. toxicodeiidron. — Poison Ivy. — "This is a handsome
climbing plant, and would be desirable for covering walls,
trees, &c., were it not for its poisonous qualities. It is very
hardy, frequent in moist or shady places, climbing over rocks,
to which it attaches itself by numerous radicles, which pene-
trate the investing lichens, or over bushes, or along the trunks
of trees, often to a great height, fastening itself to the bark so
firmly that it breaks more readily than it is detached, and so
closely as to impede the growth of the plant. The leaves are
smooth, and shining on both surfaces. The plant is poisonous,
like the last, but in an inferior degree."
RIBES.
Currant.
The Currant family is familiar to all, on account of the
grateful and healthy fruit which some of the species produce.
Some of the tribe are highly ornamental, and desirable in the
shrubbery.
Ribes sanguineum. — Ked-flowering Currant. — This is a
very handsome ornamental species, producing pendent racemes
of rich deep-red flowers, in May. The shrub is about three
feet high; the foliage elegant. The plant is easily propagated
by cuttings. I find it is rather tender, the extremities of the
branches being often killed in this climate. Probably, if planted
the north side of a wall, or where it is partially shaded with
evergreens, it would succeed better.
Ribes speciosa. — Crimson-flowering Currant. — The flowers
ROBINIA. 265
are a bright-crimson, far superior in brilliancy to sanguineum.
It is not very common, and, like the last, somewhat tender.
R. fragrans. — Fragrant Currant. — This, with the red-
flowering varieties, are natives of North America. This spe-
cies produces a profusion of yellow, fragrant flowers, in May,
perfuming the whole region in its neighborhood.
R. aureum. — Golden-flowered Currant. — A native of
Missouri, is very much like the last ; all are propagated like
the common Currant.
R. sanguineum flore plena. — The Double Crimson Currant.
— We have not seen this beautiful flower, but, according to
Mr. Downing's description, it must be very desirable. He
says : " This new and charming variety of the Crimson-flow-
ering Currant, is a seedling from R. sanguineum, by Mr. David
Dick, gardener to the Earl of Selkirk. It is but just intro-
duced into this country, but since, like all the Currant genus, it
is very easily propagated by cuttings, we hope speedily to see
it in every good collection of shrubs.
The blossoms are larger than the single variety, the racemes
from three to six inches in length ; and the effect of the shrub,
when laden, in spring, with their fine pendent blossoms, is very
rich and striking. Its flowers open, according to Paxton's Mag-
azine, about three weeks later than those of the parent species.
ROBINIA.
Locust.
Robi?iia, in memory of Jean Robin, herbarist to Henry IV.,
of France.
A North American genus of a few species of trees or
shrubs, bearing a profusion of handsome, pea-shaped flowers, in
long, pendent racemes, and elegant compound leaves.
Robinia pseaudacacia. — The Common Locust. — This is
too well known to make it necessary to give a description.
23
266 BKECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
Were it not for the ravages of a species of borer, which at-
tacks this tree, oftentimes destroying them in a few years, it
would be one of the finest in existence for the back-ground of
a shrubbery. It is a rapid grower, elegant foliage, fragrant,
beautiful flowers, in great profusion, arid very hardy. The
blossoms are butterfly or pea-shaped, white, with yellow in the
middle, produced in June and July. The insects are so
destructive to it, that the trees soon become disfigured, losing
their limbs, in consequence of the many perforations made by
these troublesome little creatures.
Robinia viscosa. — Clammy-barked Locust. — This is a
small tree, with large pale-pink flowers. The branches are
covered with a gummy substance that is unpleasant to the
touch. It looks well with other trees and shrubs.
Robinia hispida. — Kose Acacia. — This is a beautiful flow-
ering shrub, growing from three to ten feet high, bearing a
great profusion of elegant rose-colored flowers, which are pro-
duced in dense, pendent racemes. The shrub commences
flowering when only two feet high. It has long, rambling
roots, which throw up numerous suckers. The branches are
thickly clothed with stiff hairs. This is a very desirable
species. The foliage resembles the other species.
Robinia crispa. — Crisp-leaved Robina. — This is a species
or variety we imported last year, with others named below.
It has very singularly curious and elegant leaves ; they
are compound, like all the others, each leaflet being curiously
and uniformly contorted, giving to the foliage a very unique
and rich appearance. The others were R. inermis ; tertuoso,
the branches all growing in a circular, zigzag style ; mac-
rophylla, sophorafolia, dubia, volubilis, elegans and grandi-
flora. The style of the leaves in all is the same ; only a few
of them flowered, but all will be desirable, no doubt, for orna-
ment, if they are not disturbed by the borers.
The new sorts are propagated by grafting on the common
varieties.
ROSE. 267
ROSA.
The Rose,
This well-known and highly esteemed family of plants, or
shrubs, embrace many distinct species, which, by the skill of
the florist, have multiplied into thousands of varieties. They
vary in height from one to twelve or fifteen feet, producing
flowers, single, semi-double and double, and generally of ex-
quisite fragrance. The colors are, pure white, white-tinted,
shaded, striped, or mottled; every shade of red to purple, and
all these shades and colors variously mixed ; also a few yellow
varieties. There are no black roses, although we sometimes
hear of them. Such as are sold for black roses are those of
dark shades of purple or crimson. The foliage is also various
in the different species or varieties, but of a general character.
They are different also in the appendages to the plant, some
having formidable thorns, while others are entirely destitute.
Some flower only once in the season — others are perpetual, or
everblooming. Most are hardy, but many require protection.
It is a flower beloved by every one, not only in the present age,
but has been in all ages past, and will no doubt continue to be
the most prominent and desirable flower as long as the world
stands. It may, with propriety, be styled the Queen of flowers.
We have not space in this work to do justice to its merits, and
must refer our readers, for the details of its culture, and for a
mass of valuable and interesting particulars, to a work published
by S. B. Parsons, of Flushing, near New York, constituting a
volume of 280 pages, octavo, treating largely upon the Rose,
which we heartily commend to all the lovers of this universal fa-
vorite. Mr. Parsons treats of it historically, poetically, and scien-
tifically, as well as in a practical manner. We must, of course,
say something of the Rose ourselves poetically, — for who can
dwell long upon this beautiful flower without some aspirations
of this kind ? — but riot having a faculty of soaring upon our
own wings, we must cull from others, and finding in a work
BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
entitled "Flora Domestica" all we desire under this head, we
give the following copious extracts, which may not be unaccept-
able to a portion of our readers at least : —
" The Rose is preeminently the flower of love and poetry,
the very perfection of floral realities. Imagination may have
flattered herself that her power could form a more perfect
beauty ; but, it is said, she never yet discovered such to mortal
eyes. This, however, she would persuade us to be a mere
matter of delicacy, and that she had the authority of Apollo for
her secret success :
' No mortal eye can reach the flowers,
And 't is right just, for well Apollo knows
'T would make the poet quarrel with the Rose.'
It is, however, determined, that until the claim of such veiled
beauty, or beauties, shall rest upon better foundation, the Rose
shall still be considered as the unrivalled Queen of flowers.
' I saw the sweetest flower wild nature yields,
A fresh-blown Musk Rose.'
" It is said, however, that the angels possess a more beauti-
ful kind of Rose than those we have on earth. David saw in
a vision a number of angels pass by with gilded baskets in their
hands.
' Some as they went, the blue-eyed Violets strew,
Some spotless Lilies in loose order threw ;
Some did the way with full-blown Roses spread,
Their smell divine, and color strangely red ;
Not such as our dull gardens proudly wear,
Whom weathers taint, and winds' rude kisses tear ;
Such, I believe, was the first Rose's hue,
Which at God's word in beauteous Eden grew;
dueen of the flowers that made that orchard gay,
The morning blushes of the spring's new day.'
CoWLEY.
" The Rose, as well as the Myrtle, is considered as sacred to
the Goddess of beauty. Berkley, in his Utopia, describes lov-
ers as declaring their passion by presenting to the fair-beloved a
ROSE. 269
Rose-bud just beginning to open ; if the lady accepted and wore
the bud, she was supposed to favor his pretensions. As time
increased the lover's affections, he followed up the first present
by that of a half-blown Rose, which was again succeeded by one
full-blown ; and if the lady wore this last, she was considered as
engaged for life.
" Poetry is lavish of roses ; it heaps them into beds, weaves
them into crowns, twines them into arbors, forges them into
chains, adorns with them the goblet used in the festivals of
Bacchus, plants them in the bosom of beauty, — nay, not only
delights to bring in the Rose itself upon every occasion, but
seizes each particular beauty it possesses as an object of com-
parison with the loveliest works of nature : — as soft as a rose-
leaf; as sweet as a rose; rosy clouds; rosy cheeks; rosy
lips ; rosy blushes ; rosy dawns, &c., &c. It is commonly
united with the Lily : —
' In the time that the morning did strew Roses and Violets on the heavenly
floor against the coming of the sun.'
1 A bed of Lilies flower upon her cheek,
And in the midst was set a circling Rose.'
' Rosed all in lovely crimson are thy cheeks,
Where beauties indeflourishing abide,
And as to pass his fellow either seeks,
Seem both to blush at one another's pride.'
" The Red Rose is said to have been indebted for its color to
the blood which flowed from the thorn-wounded feet of Venus
when running through the woods in despair for the loss of
Adonis ; as the White Rose is also said to have sprung from
the tears which the goddess shed upon that occasion. Ample
reasons these for dedicating them to her.
' White as the native Rose before the change,
Which Venus' blood did in her leaves impress.'
" Anacreon tells us that it was dyed with nectar by the gods
23*
270 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
when it was first formed ; he speaks of it, too, as the flower of
Bacchus : —
' With nectar drops, a ruby tide,
The sweetly orient buds they dyed.
And bade them bloom ; the flowers divine
Of him who sheds the teeming vine.'
Some say they were dyed with the blood of Cupid ; and
' JT is said, as Cupid danced among
The gods, he down the nectar flung ;
Which, on the white Rose being shed,
Made it forever after red.'
But the general opinion is, that the Rose is indebted to Venus
for its beautiful blushes.
" Perhaps the most beautiful season of the Rose is when
partly blown; then too she still promises us a continuance
of delight ; but when full-blown, she inspires us with the fear
of losing her.
" Constance, expatiating on the beauty of her son, says, —
' Nature and fortune joined to make thee great ;
Of nature's gifts thou mayst with Lilies boast,
And with the half-blown Rose.'
" The bed of roses is not altogether a fiction. ' The Roses
of the Sinan Nile, or garden of the Nile, attached to the Em-
peror of Morocco's palace, are unequalled ; and mattresses are
made of their leaves, for men of rank to recline upon.'
" The Eastern poets have united the Rose with the nightin-
gale ; the Venus of flowers with the Apollo of birds ; the Rose
is supposed to burst forth from its bud at the song of the
nightingale.
" A festival is held in Persia, called the Feast of Roses, which
lasts the whole time they are in bloom.
' And all is ecstasy, for now
The valley holds its Feast of Roses ;
ROSE. *271
That joyous time when pleasures pour
Profusely round, and in their shower
Hearts open, like the season's Rose, — •
The flowret of a hundred leaves,
Expanding while the dew-fall flows,
And every leaf its balm receives ! '
" ' Persia is the very land of Roses. — " On my first entering
this bower of fairy land," says Sir Robert Kerr Porter, speaking
of the garden of one of the royal palaces of Persia, " I was
struck with the appearance of two Rose-trees, full fourteen feet
high, laden with thousands of flowers, in every degree of ex-
pansion, and of a bloom and delicacy of scent that imbued the
whole atmosphere with exquisite perfume. Indeed, I believe
that in no country in the world does the Rose grow in such
perfection as in Persia ; in no country is it so cultivated and
prized by the natives. Their gardens and courts are crowded
by its plants, their rooms ornamented with vases filled with its
gathered bunches, and every bath strewed with the full-blown
flowers, plucked with the ever-replenished stems. ^ # * *
But in this delicious garden of Negaaristan, the eye and the
smell are not the only senses regaled by the presence of the
Rose. The ear is enchanted by the wild and beautiful notes
of multitudes of nightingales, whose warblings seem to in-
crease in melody and softness with the unfolding of their
favorite flowers. Here, indeed, the stranger is more powerfully
reminded that he is in the genuine country of the nightingale
and the Rose." — (Persia in Miniature, vol. iii.)
" Sir William Ouseley accompanied his brother, the am-
bassador, on a visit to a man of high rank at Teheran ; and
though there was a great profusion of meat and fruit at this
entertainment, ' it might,' he says, ' have been styled the Feast
of Roses, for the floor of the great hall, or open-fronted talar,
was spread in the middle, and in the recess, with Roses forming
the figures of cypress-trees ; Roses decorated all the candle-
sticks, which were very numerous. The surface of the hawz,
or reservoir of water, was completely covered with rose-leaves,
272 * BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
which also were scattered on the principal walks leading to the
mansion.'
" He says that the surface of this reservoir was so entirely
covered with rose-leaves, that the water was visible only when
stirred by the air, and that the servants, during the entertain-
ment, were continually scattering fresh Roses both upon the
waters and the floor of the hall.^
" We must not dismiss the subject of the Rose, without
recalling to the minds of our readers those beautiful lines from
Milton : —
' Eve separate he spies,
Veiled in a cloud of fragrance where she stood,
Half spied, so thick the Roses blushing round
About her glowed ; oft stooping to support
Each flower of tender stalk, whose head, though gay
Carnation, purple, azure, or speck'd with gold,
Hung drooping unsustained ; them she upstays
Gently with myrtle band, mindless the while
Herself, though fairest unsupported flower,
From her best prop so far, and storm so nigh.'
" In two different poems, where Venus is represented, she has
a crown of white and red flowers : —
' I saw anone right her figure
Nakid yfletyng in a se,
And also on her hedde parde
Her rosy garland white and redde.'
' Then father Anchises decked a capacious bowl with garlands, and filled it
up with wine.' — (Davidson's Translation.)
" ' To crown the bowl,' says Mr. Davidson, ' sometimes signi-
fies no more than to fill the cup to the brim ; but here it is to
be taken literally for adorning the bowl with flowers, according
to the ancient custom. Otherwise, implevitque mero would be
mere tautology.' Horace repeatedly speaks of crowning the
bowl with Roses.
" The Romans were at great expense to procure Roses in win-
* See Sir W. Ouseley's Travels in the East, vol. Hi., pp. 352 and 353.
ROSE.
273
ter ; Suetonius affirms that Nero spent upwards of 4,000,000 of
sesterces, about thirty thousand pounds, for Roses, at one sup-
per. Horace alludes to this custom in his thirty-eighth Ode,
Book i.
' Seek not for late-blowing Roses ; I ask no other crown than simple
Myrtle.'
" It is said that the Turks cannot endure to see a Rose-leaf
fall to the ground, because, says Gerarde, * some of them have
dreamed that the first Rose sprang from the blood of Venus.'
" It may, perhaps, be worth while to quote Gerarde's transla-
tion of a passage from Anacreon, rather for its curiosity than
beauty : —
' The Rose is the honor and beauty of flowers,
The Rose is the care and the love of the spring,
The Rose is the pleasure of th' heavenly powers ;
The boy of fair Venus, Cythera's darling,
Doth wrap his head round with garlands of Rose,
When to the dances of the Graces he goes.'
"Many species of the Rose preserve their sweet perfume even
after death ; as the poet observes in the following passage : —
' And first of all, the Rose ; because its breath
Is rich beyond the rest ; and when it dies,
It doth bequeath a charm to sweeten death.'
" The very essence of this sweet perfume is extracted from
the flowers ; and the attar of Roses is(dearer than gold : —
' The Rose looks fair, but fairer we it deem
For that sweet odor which doth in it live.
The canker blooms have full as deep a dye
As the perfumed tincture of the Rqses,
Hang on such thorns, and play as wantonly,
When summer's breath their masked buds discloses.
But, for their virtue only is their show,
They live unmoved, and unrefpected fade ;
Die to themselves ; sweet Roses do not so ;
Of their sweet deaths are sweetest odors made.' "
" The Moss Rose, or Moss Provence Rose, is well known as
an elegant plant. The flowers are deeply colored, and the rich
274 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
mossiness which surrounds them gives them a luxuriant ap-
pearance not easily described ; but it is familiar to every one.
It is a fragrant flower ; its country is not known to us, and we
know it only as a double flower.
" The origin of its mossy vest has been explained to us by a
German writer : —
' The angel of the flowers one day
Beneath a. Rose-tree sleeping lay :
That spirit, to whose charge is given
To bathe young buds in dews from heaven ;
Awaking from his light repose,
The angel whispered to the Rose :
' O fondest object of my care,
Still fairest found where all are fair,
For the sweet shade thou 'st given to me,
Ask what thou wilt, 't is granted thee.'
' Then,' said the Rose, with deepened glow,
'On me another grace bestow.'
The spirit paused in silent thought ;
What grace was there that flower had not !
' T was but a moment ; — o'er the Rose
A veil of moss the angel throws,
And, robed in nature's simplest weed,
Could there a flower that Rose exceed ? ' "
We now proceed to give some practical instruction in rela-
tion to the Rose.
Soil. — Roses will succeed well in any good garden soil ; but
to have them in perfection, it is necessary that the soil be well
enriched and deeply dug. The Rose, like the vine, is a gross
feeder, and is not injured by heavy manuring. In a poor, lean,
shallow soil, it is impossible to bring out the beauties of any
variety of the Rose. A strong, rich loam, or vegetable mould,
with about one quarter of its bulk of well decomposed stable
manure, is recommended by Parsons as a standard for the qual-
ity of the soil in which t8 grow the Rose ; and if the soil of
the garden, where the Rose is to be planted, differs materially
from this, the requisite materials should be added, that it may
approach as near as possible to that standard. In my own ex-
perience, I have found that the more manure, if not an extrav-
ROSE. 275
agant quantity, the better the bloom ; but, in addition to the
quality and richness of the soil, a good depth is absolutely
necessary. My general practice is to plant out roses in beds,
which, for all the hardy roses, I prefer to do in November.
First, the ground should be trenched two spades deep, and a
liberal supply of stable, barnyard, or night-soil manure, with
bone-dust incorporated with it, as the digging proceeds, but not
buried too deep. I have not been very particular as to the
quantity or quality of the manure. After the ground is settled,
the Roses may be planted. Four feet each way is about the
proper distance to plant the different varieties of Roses, in the
rosery.
Rivers recommends, as the best compost for Roses, rotten
dung and pit sand for cold, clayey soils ; and for warm, dry
soils, rotten dung and cool loams. He finds that night-soil,
mixed with the drainings of the dunghill, or even with com-
mon ditch or pond water, so as to make a thick liquid, the best
possible manure for Roses, poured on the surface of the soil
twice in the winter, one or two gallons to each tree. In our
climate, it may be applied in November and in April. In my
beds of established Roses, I cause manure from the stable to be
applied to the surface of the ground about the bushes, in No-
vember, which serves as a protection ; some of the tender sorts
are fastened down and covered with the same. As soon as the
ground is in a fit state to dig, in the spring, this manure is
carefully incorporated with the surface soil, but not so as to
injure the fibres or roots of the plants. A wet, retentive soil
is injurious to the Rose, as I have found by sad experience ;
but in a rich, dry loam my labors have been amply rewarded.
When Roses are to be planted out singly, as many of the
climbing sorts are, the soil should be dug out two and a half
feet deep ; the bottom may be filled, to the depth of six inches,
with small stones, or, what is better, with bones, and then filled
up with prepared soil.
Situation. — The Rose will flourish in any situation where
the soil is well prepared ; but it is best to plant the Rose where
276 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
it can be shaded from the intensity of the mid-day sun. If it
can be so located as to receive the morning and evening sun,
and shaded during its greatest heat, the bloom will be more
perfect, and continue longer. Some varieties are very delicate,
and their blossoms are almost ruined by a full exposure. An
eastern or northern exposure is, therefore, the best. Roses
should not, however, be wholly shaded.
Planting. — The best season for planting all the hardy Roses,
as before stated, is in autumn; or, if necessary to defer till
spring, it should be done as early as possible. If planted late in
the spring, it will be best to cut the plants down to a few buds.
Any time, after the first severe frost, is a proper time to com-
mence planting. The plants should be taken up with great
care, disturbing the roots as little as possible, remembering that
the breaking of a single fibre diminishes the strength of the
growth and future prosperity of the plant. Presuming that the
ground is all ready, the holes should be dug somewhat larger
than the roots. When the planting is completed, the plant should
stand but a very little lower than it stood before in the ground.
The operation of placing the roots and fibres should be done
with the nicest care. In my fall planting, I place the plant in
an oblique direction, so that the plants may be easily bent down
and covered. Fall-planted roses are liable to be more or less
winter-killed, which is prevented, if covered with coarse litter,
or manure.
We have seen Pillar Roses, in the grounds of Mr. Charles
Hoffman, of Salem, — which, without protection, are liable to be
killed down to within two or three feet of the ground, — grown
in great magnificence, forming beautiful pyramids of Roses from
twelve to fifteen feet high. We had never seen the Pillar Rose
in such perfection. They were the same varieties which in
our own ground did not exceed more than five or six feet, as
the greater part of the new wood is every winter-killed down.
We were informed that the supports to which these Roses were
trained, consisting of nothing more than three or four strong
ROSE. 277
spruce poles, were taken away in autumn, and the plants laid
down and covered with earth, or coarse manure.
The only time to plant tender Roses, as far north as Boston,
is in the spring. The China, Bengal, arid Tea Roses may be
grown in the open ground, in New England, if they are taken
up in autumn. They may be kept in a dry, cool cellar, with
the roots packed in loam or sand ; or they may be laid in by
the heels, on a dry knoll, and covered with earth, where they
will remain secure till spring. In planting them out, they
should be cut down to a few buds, and they will bloom after
the summer Roses have passed away, provided the roots were
taken up well. In replanting Roses, the roots should be care-
fully examined, and all broken or bruised parts should be cut
off with a sharp knife.
A young, healthy plant is much better than one that is old
and overgrown, to plant out ; indeed, old plants should be
rejected.
Plantations of Roses should be made to succeed each other.
In the second and third years after planting, the Rose will be in
its greatest perfection. After the plants become old, they do
not do so well ; and I have found, in my own experience, that
five years was long enough to continue the plantation. It is
best then to prepare a new place, or, in fact, it should be pre-
pared, arid the new plantation made, a year before the old one
is given up, as a general and perfect bloom cannot be expected
the first year.
It is becoming fashionable, at the present time, to plant out
Roses in masses, which have a fine effect, where the white, the
crimson, or other distinct colors, are planted by themselves.
Many of the strong-growing sorts are suitable for planting with
other shrubs in the shrubbery.
Pruning. — Roses, in this climate, should be pruned early
in the spring. For Roses that are grown as dwarfs, it is neces-
sary to prune them down to a few buds; all the old wood, and
the weak, last year's growth, should be taken entirely away.
The young wood generally produces the finest flowers, which,
24
278 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
when properly pruned, are larger and much more double than
when the bushes are suffered to grow at random.
In pruning climbing Roses, the operation must be different, as
it is necessary to retain the whole length of the most vigorous
shoots, cutting out all the old wood that will not be likely to
produce fine flowers, and pruning down the lateral branches to
one eye. The manner of pruning must, in a measure, depend
upon the variety of the Rose, and more particularly upon the
style in which it is to be trained. This must be left to the
ingenuity and taste of the cultivator ; and whether it is to be
trained to a trellis, over an arch, pillar, or in whatever shape
it is wanted, the proper way will generally suggest itself.
Propagation. — The Rose is propagated in various ways.
Some varieties succeed well by cuttings, as the China and
many of the tender Roses ; but, with most of the hardy kinds,
this is not often resorted to except by skilful gardeners.
By Layers. — All the summer-blooming Roses may be prop-
agated in this way. It can be performed in midsummer, and
for several weeks afterwards. Young shoots, at least one foot
long and well matured, should be selected for this purpose.
The mode of operation is the same as in all shrubby plants.
The soil should be well dug about the plant, and increased by
a little fresh loam, well enriched with rotten manure, raised
about it, so as to form a little bed. Proceed, then, with the
usual process of layering, "by making a slit with a sharp knife
just below a bud, making a slanting cut, upwards and length-
wise, about half through the branch, forming a tongue from one
to two inches long, on the back part of the shoot, right opposite
the bud. A chip, or some of the soil, can be placed in the
slit to prevent it from closing, and the shoot can then be care-
fully laid and pegged down at a point some two or three inches
below the cut, keeping, at the same time, the top of the shoot
some three or four inches out of the ground, and making it fast
to a small stake to keep it upright." The prepared shoot
should be buried about three or four inches deep. Great care
will be necessary to prevent the branch from injury. The
0
ROSE. 279
ground over the layer should be covered with moss, or coarse
manure, or some substance to screen it from the sun. In some
varieties, the layers will be sufficiently rooted in autumn ; but
in many kinds, particularly the hardy perpetuals, they will not
be sufficiently established to separate from the parent plant till
the autumn following.
By Suckers. — Many varieties of Roses are inclined to throw
up suckers. With these sorts there is no difficulty in increas-
ing the stock. These should be taken off with as much root as
possible, every autumn, and planted out in nursery rows, or
where they are to remain, if strong plants. The parent plant
is also very much benefited by this operation.
Budding. — All the varieties of the Rose can be propagated
by budding, and, to increase new and rare varieties, this mode
is always resorted to. There are some sorts, naturally weak,
which flower much more perfectly when budded on some strong-
growing species ; but we hate a budded Rose-bush, and will not
have one in our grounds if we can get them on their own roots.
It requires much care and attention to keep them in order, as
the stock is continually throwing up suckers, drawing all the
nourishment from the budded variety. Where there are but
few varieties, and a skilful gardener to look after the plants,
there is no doubt but that it is desirable to have some varieties
on strong-growing stocks. We were not a little amused, a few
years since, upon a visit at the house of a horticultural friend,
who, by the way, was better acquainted with the management of
his fruit trees than he was with the flower-garden. His garden
was well laid out and kept very neat. He was taking me
round to show the various plants, and getting what information
he could out of one he supposed knew more than he did about
them. Presently he came to a wilderness of the French Dog
Roses. " There," says he, " is a lot of the choicest Roses that
could be obtained in France." " Indeed," says I, " they certainly
look very vigorous." " They do, to be sure," he replied ; " but
somehow or other they look very much alike, and the few
that flowered this year were very single." "That is very prob-
280 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
able," I replied, "for Dog Roses have great resemblance to each
other, and are always single." Great was his surprise, when I
convinced him that the Roses he had imported and cultivated
with so much care, were only suckers from the stocks on which
his imported Roses were budded. He had planted them out,
supposing they were on their own roots, and had not perceived
the necessity of keeping down the suckers.
Tree Roses. — The Tree Rose is a beautiful object when in
bloom. It is formed by inoculating the desired variety upon a
standard, some four or five feet in height, generally the Dog
Rose, as it is called in France, or the Eglantine. Many have
been imported from France, and succeed well the first or second
year ; but from some cause they soon die. Either the severity
of our winters, or our powerful summers' sun, causes their
death.
New varieties are produced from seed raised from flowers,
which have been crossed with others of opposite characters ;
but none but amateurs will attempt this, so this mode of propa-
gation will not be dwelt upon.
Of the diseases of the Rose, arid of the insects that infest it,
we shall have something to say in another place.
GARDEN CLASSIFICATION OF ROSES.
On the subject of Classification of Roses, there have been
much difficulty and confusion among amateurs ; and even
Rivers himself, one of the most correct of Rose amateurs in
England or France, remarks : " Within the last ten years,
how many plants have been named and unnamed, classed and
unclassed ! Professor A. placing it here, and Dr. B. placing it
there ! I can almost imagine Dame Nature laughing in her
sleeve, when our philosophers are thus puzzled. Well, so it is,
in a measure, with Roses ; a variety has often equal claims on
two classes. First impressions have placed it in one, and there,
rival amateurs should let it remain."
We are pleased with Mr. Parsons' classification, as being
the most simple of any we have seen, and also as distinctive
ROSE. 281
as possible, in a family so intermixed as the different varieties
or species appear to be. We shall, therefore, give his system
entire.
After speaking of the great confusion that has arisen in Rose
nomenclature, he says : —
" If there exists, then, this doubt of the proper class to which
many Roses belong, we think it would be better to drop entirely
this sub-classification, and adopt some more general heads,
under one of which every Rose can be classed. It may often
be difficult to ascertain whether a Rose is a Damask, a Provence,
or a Hybrid China ; but there can be no difficulty in ascertain-
ing whether it is dwarf or climbing, whether it blooms once or
more in the year, and whether the leaves are rough as in the
Remontants, or smooth as in the Bengals. We have, there-
fore, endeavored to simplify the old classification, and have
placed all Roses under three principal heads, viz. :
" I. Those that make distinct and separate periods of bloom
throughout the season, as the Remontant Roses.
" II. Those that bloom continually, without any temporary
cessation, as the Bourbon, China, &c.
"III. Those that bloom only once in the season, as the
French and others.
" The first of these includes only the present Damask and
Hybrid Perpetuals, and for these we know no term so expres-
sive as the French Remontant. Perpetual does not express
their true character.
" The second general head we call Everblooming. This is
divided into five classes :
" 1. The Bourbon, which are easily known by their luxuri-
ant growth, and thick, large, leathery leaves. These are,
moreover, perfectly hardy.
" 2. The China, which includes the present China, Tea, and
Noisette Roses, which are now much confused, as there are
many among the Teas which are not tea-scented, and among
the Noisettes which do not bloom in clusters. They are, more-
over, so much alike in their growth and habit, that it is better
24*
282 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
each should stand upon its own merits, and not on the charac-
teristics of an imaginary class.
" 3. Musk, known by its rather rougher foliage.
" 4. Macartney, known by its very rich, glossy foliage, almost
evergreen.
"5. Microphylla, easily distinguished by its peculiar foliage
and straggling habit.
" The third general head we divide into five classes :
" 1. Garden Roses. This includes all the present French,
Provence, Hybrid Provence, Hybrid China, Hybrid Bourbon,
White, and Damask Roses, many of which, under the old
arrangement, differ more from others in their own class than
from many in another class.
" 2. Moss Roses, all of which are easily distinguished.
" 3. Brier Roses, which will include the Sweet Brier, Hy-
brid Sweet Brier, and Austrian Brier.
" 4. The Scotch Rose.
" 5. Climbing Rose ; which are again divided into all the
distinctive subdivisions."
ROSES THAT BLOOM DURING THE WHOLE SEASON.
Remontant Roses. — " The term Remontant," says Mr. Par-
sons, " signifying, literally, to grow again, we have chosen to
designate this class of Roses, there being no word in our lan-
guage equally expressive. They were formerly called Damask
and Hybrid Perpetuals, but are distinguished by their peculiar-
ity of distinct and separate periods of bloom. They bloom with
the other roses in early summer, then cease for a while, then
make a fresh bloom, and thus through the summer and autumn,
differing entirely from the Bourbon and Bengal Roses, which
grow and bloom continually through the summer." This class
of Roses require longer time to establish themselves from layers
than any others, as they are not often fit to detach from the old
plant till the second year. Budding is resorted to for extensive
propagation with this class. Some of the varieties, when
ROSE. 283
grown upon their own roots, do not do justice to themselves ;
but when worked on strong-growing stocks, grow much more
luxuriantly, and give more perfect flowers. Mr. Parsons has
described two hundred varieties of Roses from the various
classes of those sorts he thinks most desirable for the amateur
to select from. There are but few persons who will be dis-
posed to cultivate that number. His selection is a very choice
one, and I should hardly know myself which to reject. Fifty
varieties, well chosen from the various classes, are as many as
most persons, unless they have money enough and to spare,
would be likely to cultivate ; and the great majority would
probably be happy to possess half that number. We would
recommend Prince Albert, Madam LafTay, Rivers, Duchess of
Sutherland, Crimson Perpetual, William Jessie, La Reine,and
Robin Hood, for a small collection. When a large number are
wanted, we refer to Parsons' selection and various catalogues.
Everblooming Roses. — These roses are distinguished from
the Remontant, by blooming continually through the season,
without any temporary cessation. They include the Bourbon,
the Bengal and its sub-varieties, the Tea and Noisette, the
Musk, the Macartney, and the Microphylla Roses."
The Everblooming Roses are very desirable, wherever the
climate renders it possible to preserve them through the winter.
As far north as Boston, the greater part of them can only be
cultivated to perfection in the green-house, but further south,
they endure the winter, even, without protection.
Bourbon Roses. — This section of the Everblooming Roses
have succeeded in my own grounds ; but, from appearances, I
should think they could not be trusted out much further north, as
I find the tops frequently killed down nearly to the ground. Mr.
Parsons says they are perfectly hardy with him, (Long Island,)
which is much warmer than in this State. He says, in speak-
ing of it as having superior qualities to the Tea-scented Rose,
" These qualities are, its perfect hardiness, its very thick,
leathery foliage, its luxuriant growth, its constant bloom, and
ks thick, velvety petals of a consistency to endure even the
284 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
burning heat of a tropical sun." Some fine varieties are,
Paul Joseph, Queen, Emilie Courtier, Bouquet de Flore, and
Madame Desprez. This last has proved the most tender,
and will not stand out here in the open ground.
China Roses. — This class of Roses we must set down as the
proper inhabitants of the green-house, in this section of the
country ; although, by planting in frames, taking up the plants
and laying them in the ground in a dry place, or preserving
them in a dry, cool cellar, they will do very well to plant out
in the spring, and make a fine bloom after the summer Roses
have passed away. Mr. Parsons remarks, that, " next to the
Bourbon, this is perhaps the most valuable class of Roses ; but in
this climate they need protection from the cold. This, however,
can be easily afforded by salt, hay, or straw." I have tried to
keep this class of Roses in the open ground, by protection of
all kinds, but unfortunately their location was rather too wet
in winter ; perhaps, in a dry, loamy soil, they would succeed
better. Further south, this is a most desirable class for out-
door culture.
Tea and Noisette Roses. — What has been said in relation
to the tenderness of the China Roses, will apply to the Tea
and Noisette Roses. " The Tea and Noisette Roses have been
generally classed distinct from the China." " They are, how-
ever, but varieties of the latter; arid there is so much confu-
sion in the old classification, that the amateur is frequently
misled. Many of the Roses now classed among the China,
have a strong tea scent, and many of the present Tea Roses
have very little fragrance. The characteristic of the Noisette
Rose is understood to be its cluster-blooming habit." The
Southern States must be the congenial climate for the whole
class of China and Tea Roses. The author of the work
already alluded to, however, says, " They will endure our win-
ters, with the thermometer at zero, but it is better to protect
them by means of straw and hay, or of boards upon low stakes.
Perhaps the least troublesome way of protecting them, is to
have one or more hot-bed frames, six feet by twelve, and about a
ROSE. 285
foot and a half or two feet deep. This can be set several inches
in the ground, and litter of any kind placed around the sides.
The Eoses can be carefully taken up, and planted in this frame
as thick as they will stand. The top can then be covered with
boards, a little slanting, to carry off the rain, and the plants will
be sufficiently protected. If the weather is severe, some litter
can also be placed on the top." This class of Roses is so de-
sirable that if, by any means, they can be protected without the
expense of a green-house, it will be a great desideratum. For
China Roses, we would name, Mrs. Bosanquet, Madame Breon,
Grandiflora and Daily Blush. For Tea Roses, Eliza Sauvage,
Marshal Bugeaud, Safrano,Triomphe de Luxembourg, and Prin-
cess Adelaide. For Noisettes, the fine yellow Cromatella, Aimee
Vibert, Ne Plus Ultra, Lamarque, Jaune Desprez and Pactole.
Musk Roses. — The Musk Rose stands pretty well here, in a
warm, dry situation, but, in wet ground, rather tender. In the
latitude of Long Island, Mr. Parsons says it is quite hardy,
having a plant of the old White Musk, that has braved the
severity of more than twenty winters, in his grounds. " It has
already, this season, made shoots of more than six feet; and in
our Southern States more than double the growth would prob-
ably be attained." It produces its flowers in large clusters.
We are familiar with the old white cluster, which commences
flowering late, and continues till cold weather. Other fine
varieties are, Eponine, and Princess of Nassau.
Macartney Roses. — " This Rose was brought from China to
England, by Lord Macartney, in 1793. Its habit is luxuriant,
and its foliage is more beautiful than of any other Rose, its
leaves being thick, and of a rich glossy-green." As to hardi-
ness, it is about the same as the China Rose. " It is one of the
most desirable Roses for beds or borders. When covering the
whole ground, and kept well pegged down, its rich, glossy
foliage, gemmed with fragrant flowers, produces a fine effect."
The two best varieties are Alia odorata and Maria Leonida.
Microphylla Roses. — " This Rose came originally from the
Himalayan Mountains, and was brought to Europe in 1823."
286 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
It has not proved hardy with me, but with Mr. Parsons " it
has endured the winter for the past two years, without protec-
tion, losing only a portion of the top of its shoots. Its
foliage is small and singular, and its growth very robust."
ROSES THAT BLOOM ONLY ONCE IN THE SEASON.
" For want of a better, we use this term to designate all those
Roses that bloom only once in the season, and that strongly
resemble each other in habit and flower. It includes those
classes called, by rose-growers, French, Provence, Hybrid Pro-
vence, Hybrid China, Hybrid Bourbon, White and Damask
Roses." We refer our readers to Mr. Parsons' work, for many
interesting particulars in relation to this classification, and for a
select list of Roses, coming under this head. During the sea-
son of the flowering of the Rose, we noted a few varieties as
being very fine, among which were the following : —
White Roses. — White Unique, Madame Hardy, Madame
Plantier, Ball of Snow, and Princess Clementine. The old-
fashioned White Rose should not certainly be forgotten, as it is
associated with childhood. It is one of the three first Roses that
opened their buds to the writer. Who can forget the old White
Rose, as it was trained up the side of the house ? We have
seen a rose-bush, of this variety, trained fifteen feet high.
White Roses, Striped, Mottled, or Shaded. — Painted
Damask, Margin Globe, Modeste, New Village Maid, Old Vil-
lage Maid.
Rose-colored. — Franklin Provence, Las Casas, Caroline
Mignonne, Triomphe of Breslau, Perpetual de Angers.
Deep-red. — Velours Episcopal, Cerise Superb, Fulgens,
29th of July, Brennus, La Fontaine, &c.
Purple and Dark Roses. — Mirabella, Gen. Thiers, Gen.
Lamarque, Bell Thurette, Madame Camper, &c.
This list might be extended, but I have given enough, proba-
bly, to select from.
Moss Roses. — This is a well-known and elegant class of
ROSE. 287
Roses, of which the common Moss is about the only one that is
very familiar. The Luxembourg Moss has dark crimson-cupped
flowers, and is a vigorous grower. Perpetual White Moss is
handsome only in bud. It produces a large cluster of beauti-
ful mossy buds, but the flowers are inferior. It is not properly
a perpetual, but produces a long succession of buds. The
White Bath Moss has fine white flowers, which are sometimes
lightly striped with pink.
Princess Adelaide is one of the most vigorous-growing Moss
Roses, and would be one of the varieties we should recom-
mend.
Cristata, or crested, is a singular and beautiful variety. Ex-
cepting when in bud, it does not have the appearance of a Moss
Rose. The calyx has a beautiful crested appearance. " In a
rich soil, this fringe-like crest most beautifully clasps and sur-
mounts the bud, and gives the rich clusters a truly elegant ap-
pearance. Its form is globular, and its color rose." Other
varieties recommended are, Alice Leroy, Crimson, Catharine
de Wurtemburg, Celina, -Eclatante, Lancel, Prolific, Unique
de Provence, and Zoe.
Scotch Roses. — This class of Roses are distinguished by
their small leaves, prickly stems, abundant bloom, delicate
habits, early bloom. They flower about two weeks before the
summer Roses. They are suitable for growing in masses, or
borders, and the shrubbery. The original, from which all the
varieties sprang, was found growing wild in Scotland and the
north of England. In some of the catalogues two or three
hundred varieties are described, but many of them are so near
alike, it would be difficult to see the difference. Mr. Parsons
says there are scarcely forty or fifty, distinct ; and of these he
recommends, as the three best, the Countess of Glasgow, Queen
of May, and William the Fourth.
Brier Roses. — " These Roses are distinguished by their
small, rough foliage, and brier habit. They include the Sweet
Brier, the Hybrid Sweet Brier, and the Austrian Brier."
The Sweet Brier is a native of Europe, and found abun-
288 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
dantly in some parts of this country. Mr. Emerson supposes
that it was introduced into this country, and now has become
naturalized ; the seeds having probably been disseminated by
birds.
The Double Yellow Provence Rose is supposed to have had
its origin from the Austrian Brier. It is an old inhabitant of
some gardens, but a very shy bloomer, showing its flowers very
sparing, and, some years, none. We have seen the bushes
bending with their load of flowers. They are large, very double,
of a pale-yellow. On account of its peculiar habits, it is not
worth its room in the garden. Copper Austrian " is a very sin-
gular-looking Rose, blooming well in this climate, is of a cop-
pery-red, and the outside inclining to pale-yellow, or sulphur."
It has single flowers, but they are truly beautiful. The Yellow
Harrison Rose was considered a great acquisition, a few years
since, but this is now entirely eclipsed by the Persian Yellow.
Its flowers are more double, and of a more brilliant yellow, than
the Harrison ; and this is the only hardy yellow Rose we know of,
really worth growing, except the Copper Austrian. The flowers
of the Austrian Roses are produced on short joints all along the
stem ; they will not, therefore, bear much pruning.
The common Sweet Brier is worthy a place in every garden,
on account of its exquisite fragrance. In pruning this section
of the class, the old wood only should be cut out.
" Double-margined Hip is a Hybrid Sweet Brier, of luxuri-
ant growth, almost adapted to a pillar. Its form is cupped, and
its color creamy-white, shaded with pink."
Climbing Roses. — The Climbing Roses may be divided into
four or five sub-classes, viz., Boursalt, Ayrshire, Prairie, Hy-
brid China, Noisette or Bourbon, and Miscellaneous. In the
Miscellaneous class, the old-fashioned Cinnamon may be
placed, not knowing where else to put it; and it should
most assuredly have a place somewhere, " for auld lang syne,"
if nothing more. It deserves a place in the shrubbery, on ac-
count of its early flowering and profuse bloom. It opens its
ROSE. 289
blossoms the last of May, in this climate, and, with a little
attention, will make a bush ten or twelve feet high.
Bourscdt Eases. — The Boursalt Roses come next in bloom
after the Cinnamon. They are all desirable on account of
their hardy character and vigorous growth. " Their smooth
bark renders them desirable for stocks to bud upon." For the
extreme north, this whole class, next to the Prairie, are the
most desirable for pillars and trellises.
Amadis is one of the handsomest of the Boursalt Roses,
producing its large purplish-crimson flowers in pendulous clus-
ters.
For distant effect, the Common Purple Boursalt is not with-
out its merits. The flowers are semi-double, but are produced
in immense numbers ; and, then, it is very hardy.
De Lesle, or Blush Boursalt. — This is one of the earliest of
the sub-class, producing large blush flowers, with a deep rose
centre, and perfectly double. All the Boursalts have quite
smooth stems, but none more so than the Thornless Rose, which
comes into bloom soon after the Cinnamon. Its stems are per-
fectly smooth; it makes a stout bush, ten or twelve feet high,
and is covered with a profusion of pretty pink roses. This is
suitable for the shrubbery. The Old White Rose makes
a handsome bush for training. The flowers are semi-double,
of a fine rose-white, and, when properly managed, in rich soil,
will grow twelve to fifteen feet high.
Prairie Roses. — Samuel Feast, Esq., of Baltimore, has the
honor of originating the first Prairie Rose, — the Queen of the
Prairies, — for which the Massachusetts Horticultural Soci-
ety awarded him their large gold medal, as a special premium.
This is the type of a new class of hardy Roses, and proves to
be a most valuable acquisition for the North, it being as hardy
as the oak. The tribe bloom after the summer Roses are
Queen of the Prairies is a most superb variety of Rosa rubi-
folia, a native of the West, sometimes known as the Michigan
Rose. This is Mr. Feast's first seedling, and considered by
25
290 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
some the best. The flowers are of a deep rose color, with a
white stripe in the centre of each petal. They have a peculiar
globular, cap-shaped form. This variety is the most luxurious
grower of any of the class, making a surprising growth in rich
soil. The flowers of all the varieties are produced in clusters.
Baltimore Belle. — The flowers are a pale, waxy blush,
almost white, very double, in large clusters ; like the other,
perfectly hardy.
Rosa superba has pale, delicate blush roses, in large clusters,
the flowers not so large as the Baltimore Belle.
Perpetual Pink produces flowers in great profusion, which
continue in long succession ; rather small, but in large clusters,
varying from light-pink to purple. In addition to those de-
scribed, there are many other varieties equally desirable, and
new sorts are every year produced. This class of Roses lack
one important quality, that is, fragrance.
Ayrshire Roses. — This family of Roses are great ramblers,
producing a long, slender, luxuriant growth ; but, in a northern
climate, they cannot be relied on as being perfectly hardy, un-
less laid down and covered over. They produce very pretty
flowers, in clusters, mostly white. They are desirable for cov-
ering " unsightly places, old buildings and decayed trees."
"The Ayrshire Roses are also valuable for weeping trees.
When budded on some stock eight or ten feet high, the
branches quickly reach the ground, and, protecting the stem by
their close foliage, present a weeping tree of great beauty,
loaded with flowers."
Some of the most desirable varieties are the Dundee Ram-
bler ; flowers in large clusters, white, edged with pink, and the
double blush.
Hybrid China, Bourbons, fyc. — Of this class there are many
varieties, suitable for pillars, or poles, but which it will be the
safest course to be careful of in the winter, in the New Eng-
land States. In climbing Roses, length is an important feat-
ure ; and if these hybrids are left without protection, they
may lose a large portion of the new wood, unless laid down
ROSE. 291
and covered over. Rivers' George the Fourth is a Hybrid
China ; grows about ten feet high ; flowers large, of a very
rich crimson color. This is also a fine dwarf Rose, when
pruned down, and, like most of the Hybrid China, stands per-
fectly well in the open ground, but the tops are always winter-
killed here.
Belle Theresa. — Hybrid China. — A rampant grower, with
rich dark purple-crimson flowers, in clusters, under medium
size.
Fulgens, — Hybrid China, — has beautiful bright scarlet-
cupped flowers.
Gloire de Rosemene. — Bourbon. — This fine Rose gives a
succession of fine bright crimson-scarlet flowers, but rather
tender.
Brennus, — Hybrid China, — has large bright scarlet-crim-
son flowers.
Blanchfleur. — Hybrid China. — Pure white ; of a very
double and compact form, and an abundant bloomer ; about six
feet high.
Madame d'Arbly. — Hybrid climber, of great luxuriance,
flowers white, in exuberant clusters ; too tender for the North.
La Tourterelle, or Dove Rose, — Hybrid China, — a very
luxuriant grower, but succeeds well as a dwarf Rose, when
pruned down. The flowers are large, cup-shaped, of a pur-
plish-lilac or dove color.
Phillipar, — Noisette, or Bourbon, — admired for its profu-
sion, and peculiar rosy-lilac hue of the flowers, blooming with-
out intermission from June to November.
Of the Hybrid Perpetual Roses, suitable for training, are
Madame Laffay, blooming three or four times in the season,
with bright rosy flowers ; Prince Albert, already named, with
large flowers, of a rich crimson color and perfect shape ; and
Youland d'Arragon, with fine, deep flowers. There are some
of this class that can be made to grow in rich grounds five to
six feet high.
In planting climbing Roses, they should always be cut down
292 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
to within a few inches of the ground, as it is important to get
a clean, vigorous growth for the next year's bloom. Another
important matter is, to dig the ground deep and have it thor-
oughly enriched. A third is, in pruning. The wood of climb-
ing Roses does not produce so fine flowers after it is two years
old. It is necessary, therefore, to encourage the growth of one
or more new shoots every year, cutting out the old wood as fast
as there is new to supply its place. The lateral branches are
to be pruned in, while the main stems are to be kept the
whole length.
We had almost forgot the Multiflora Rose, a class distinct
from those already named ; they produce flowers in large clus-
ters, but rather small. Some of the varieties are, the Cottage
Rose, Laure Davoust, Garland, &c. In New England they
are all rather tender.
In closing our remarks on Roses, we cannot refrain from giv-
ing Gerarde's account of it some two hundred and fifty years
ago. His mode of classification was, among thorny plants.
" This plant of Roses, though it be a shrub full of prickles, yet
it had been more fit and convenient to have placed it with the
most glorious flowers of the world, than to insert the same here,
among base and thorny shrubs, for the Rose doth deserve the
chiefest and most principled place among all flowers whatso-
ever, being not only esteemed for its beauty, vertues, and his
fragrant, odoriferous smell, but also because it is the honour and
ornament of our English sceptre, as by the conjunction appear-
eth in the uniting of those two most royal houses of Lancaster
and York. *= # It is reported that the Turks can by no means
endure to see the leaves of Roses fall to the ground, because
that some of them have dreamed that the first or most ancient
Rose did spring from the blood of Venus, and others of the Ma-
hometans say, that it sprang from the sweat of Mahomet. ^ ^
The Holland, or Pr&vence Rose hath divers shoots, proceed-
ing from a woody root, full of sharp prickles, dividing itself
into divers branches, whereon do grow leaves, consisting of five
leaves set upon a single mid-rib, and those snip about the
ROSE. 293
edges ; the flowers do grow on the tops of the branches, in
shape and color like the Damask Rose, but greater and more
double, insomuch that the yellow chives in the middle are hard
to be seen; of a reasonable good smell, but not full so sweet as
the common Damask Rose ; the fruit is like the other of his
kinde."
ON THE ODORS OF ROSES AND THE MODES OF OBTAINING THEM.
" Go, crop the gay Rose's vermeil bloom.
And waft its spoils, a sweet perfume,
In incense to the skies." — OGILVIE.
" Of their sweet deaths are sweetest odors made."
SHAKSPEARE.
"This Queen of the garden loses not its diadem in the per-
fuming world. The oil of roses, or, as it is commonly called,
the otto or attar of roses, is abstracted by various processes
from the Cabbage Rose in Turkey, Persia and India ; the finest
is imported from Ghazepore, in the latter country. For obtain-
ing it, the procurers at each place have their own mode of
operation; the best method, however, is to stratify the flowers
with a seed containing a fat-oil ; they will absorb the essential
oil of roses, and swell a good deal if the flowers are changed
repeatedly. They are then pressed, and the product allowed to
stand for a time ; the otto rises to the surface, and is finally
purified by distillation. Pare otto of roses, from its cloying
sweetness, has not many admirers ; it is, moreover, likely to
produce headache and vertigo in this state ; when diluted, how-
ever, there is nothing to equal it in odor, especially if mixed in
soap, to form rose soap, or in the pure spirit form, 'Esprit de
Rose.1 The former preparation not allowing the perfume to
evaporate very fast, we are not so readily surfeited with the
smell as in the latter. The finest preparation of Rose as an
odor, is made at Grasse, in France ; here the flower is not
treated for the otto, but simply by maceration in fat, as men-
tioned with other flowers.
" The Rose Pomade, thus made> if digested in alcohol, yields
Esprit de Rose of the first order, very superior to that which is
25*
294 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
made by the addition of otto to spirit. It is difficult to account
for this difference, but it is sufficiently characteristic to form a
distinct odor. It is never sold by the perfumer ; he reserves this to
form part of his recherche bouquets. Some wholesale druggists
have, however, been selling it to country practitioners for them
to form extemporaneous water, which it does to great perfec-
tion. Roses are cultivated to a large extent in England, near
Mitcham, in Surrey, for perfumers' use, to make rose-water;
the odor of the English flower is not strong enough to use for
any other purpose. Though the dried rose-leaves are used for
scent-bags, they retain but little of their native fragrance. In
the season when successive crops can be got, they are gathered
as soon as the dew is off, and sent up to town in sacks. When
they arrive they are immediately spread out on a cool floor ;
otherwise, if left in a heap, they will heat to such an extent in
two or three hours, as to be quite spoiled ; to preserve them for
use they are immediately pickled ; for this purpose the leaves are
separated from the stalk, and to every bushel of flowers, equal
to six pounds, one pound of common salt is thoroughly rubbed
in ; the whole becomes a pasty mass, and is finally stowed away
in casks. In this way they will keep almost any length of
time without seriously injuring their fragrance. For rose-
water, which is best prepared from time to time, take 12 Ibs. of
pickled Roses, and 2| gallons of water, place them in a still,
and draw off 2 gallons ; this product will be the ' double dis-
tilled rose-water ' of the shops." — English paper.
RUBUS.
Bramble.
This genus embraces a class of rambling rough plants, well
known and highly prized for their grateful, delicious, and whole-
some fruits ; the Raspberries, Blackberries, and Thimble-berries,
with their varieties. The High Blackberry produces clusters
of handsome white flowers, succeeded by delicious fruit, and
when cultivated in the garden is much improved.
SAMBUCUS SHEPARDIA. 295
Rubus odoratus. — The Flowering Raspberry. — - This is the
only ornamental variety ; found growing freely in mountainous
districts in most parts of this State, " giving a charm to many
a solitary spot by its large, rose-like flowers." The leaves are
large and handsome. The fruit is inferior to the other species.
It deserves a place among other shrubs. It should be planted
in a shady place.
SAMBUCUS.
Sambucus canadensis. — Common Elder. — This very common
shrub grows about eight or ten feet high in low ground, and
conspicuous in June and July for its broad cymes of white
flowers, succeeded by clusters of small, dark-purple, or nearly
black, berries. An infusion of the bruised leaves is used by
gardeners to expel insects from vines. The flowers are highly
esteemed, as having important medicinal qualities. The plant,
on account of its ornamental flowers and berries, may be intro-
duced into extensive shrubberies.
Sambucus pubens. — Panicled Elder. — This species is not
so common as the last. It is found in mountainous places,
and is conspicuous on account of its bright-red berries, — other-
wise destitute of beauty.
SHEPARDIA.
Buffalo Tree.
Skepardia, named by Nuttall, in compliment to Mr. Thomas
Shepard, of the Botanic Garden, Liverpool.
Shepardia elegnoides. — Buffalo Tree. — This graceful shrub,
or low tree, is found in the neighborhood of the Rocky Moun-
tains, in large clumps, or clusters. It is eaten or broused by
the Buffalo, by which it derives its common name. The tree
is graceful in its appearance, growing from ten to thirteen
feet high ; the branches are rather pendulous ; the leaves are
small, of a soft, woolly nature, and have a silvery appearance.
296 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
It is male and female, on different plants. The branches of
the female trees are thickly studded with clusters of small
crimson berries, nearly the size of the red currant. The fruit
has a pleasant acid flavor, and is sometimes used for jelly or
preserve. There is an astringent taste in addition to the acid,
which makes the fruit of little value, in comparison with the
common currant. For an ornamental tree or shrub, it deserves
a place among other plants. It is beautiful fruit. Male and
female plants should be ordered. The flowers cannot boast of
much beauty.
SPARTIUM.
Broom.
Spartium, from Greek, signifying cordage ; the earliest
ropes were made of this and similar plants. The species are
shrubs, thick-set with verdant, flexible, rush-like twigs, which
are very ornamental in winter, and generally profusely covered
with showy white or yellow pea-shaped flowers in summer.
Spartium scoparium. — Common Brown. — A very orna-
mental shrub in garden scenery, producing a profusion of its
showy blossoms. It is not very common in New England, as
our winters are rather severe upon it. In the interior of the
country, we find no difficulty in keeping it, when the snows are
deep. If planted on the north side of a wall, and covered with
snow, it will be found perfectly green in the spring, and flowers
abundantly.
SPIRAEA.
Spiraa, in Greek, signifies a cord. Spireon is Pliny's name
for a plant, the blossoms of which are used in garlands. The
genus affords many ornamental shrubs, all very hardy, and
easy to cultivate.
Spi?'csa hyper leaf olia. — Hyperica-leaved Spira3a, or, St. Pe-
ter's Wreath. — This is a very elegant shrub, producing its
SPIRAEA. 297
numerous small white flowers in long garlands, upon the deli-
cate curving branches of the plant. The bush, when in flower,
has the appearance of being covered with a light fall of snow.
The foliage is elegant; it is in flower in May and June;
grows about four feet high ; the extremities of the branches are
sometimes winter-killed ; easily propagated by suckers, divis-
ions of the root, or by layers, as all the species are.
Spircea opulifolia. — Nine-Bark Spiraea. — " An ornamental
native shrub, found from Canada to Georgia ; from five to
seven feet high, distinguished for the abundance of its showy
heads of flowers, and for its conspicuous fruit. The stem is
rugged, with loose, gray bark, easily detached, and falling off.
Flowers in hemispherical heads, on a short stalk, — each flower
on a slender, downy thread ; white, with a rose tinge."
Spircea salidfolia. — The Queen of the Meadows. — This is
a very pretty shrub, from two to four, and sometimes six,
feet high, with terminal heads of neat white, sometimes rose-
tinted flowers, in. June and July.
Spircea tomentosa. — Steeple Bush, — Hardback. — This is
a very common, leafy shrub, from two to five feet high, growing
in wet ground, and distinguished in the flowering season for its
long, tapering spire of purple flowers. A few years since we
ordered all the handsome Spiraeas from England, excluding all
that we possessed. When they came into flower, we found
among them, this old, familiar country friend. It is, how-
ever, handsome when cultivated and pruned of the previous
year's stem, which disfigures it very much, when growing in the
pastures.
" This plant has very valuable astringent qualities, and is
employed as a tonic in dysentery, and other disorders of the
system."
Spircea prunifolia plena. — Double Prune-leaved Spiraea. —
This is one of the most desirable species or varieties of the
Spiraea, and is perfectly hardy. The following account is from
the Gardener's Chronicle. " This charming shrub was intro-
duced into Europe by Dr. Siebold, to whom our collections are
298 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
are indebted for so many novelties, only to be procured with
the utmost difficulty. It deserves the attention of all amateurs,
as well for its hardiness as its elegant habit and beautiful
flowers. The Dutch traveller found it cultivated in the Japan-
ese gardens, and supposes its native country to be Corea, or the
north of China. It is a shrub, from six to nine feet high, and
has upright, close, bushy, slender branches, which are covered
with a smooth, ash-colored bark, that detaches itself at later
periods in thin scales. The leaves are oval, or ovate elliptic,
rounded at their base, obtuse or a little acute at their apex,
downy beneath, denticulated at the edge. The flowers, which
grow by threes or sixes, cover the whole length of the branches,
are as white as snow, and very double, in consequence of a
complete abortion of their stamens. Their shape is exactly
like that of the Ranunculus aconitifolius with double flowers,
and their number and arrangement, with a light and elegant
bright-green foliage, render this plant a charming addition to
the shrubs which grow in the native air." It flowers in this
climate in May.
S. Douglassii. — Mr. Douglass' Spiraea. — This shrub is no-
ticed by Mr. Downing, as a new species from California, hav-
ing some resemblance to S. tomentosa, flowering in the same
manner ; flowers fine rosy-lilac, continuing in bloom from July
till the autumnal frosts commence. This species flowered in
our collection last year ; but, as the plants were not fully estab-
lished, we could not judge of its merits. The resemblance was
so near to <S. tomentosa, that we were unfavorably impressed
with its appearance.
S. sorbifolia. — Pinnate-leaved Spiraea. — This is a vigorous
shrub, a native of Siberia. It develops its handsome pinnate
foliage very early in the spring. The leaflets are serrated, or
with notched edges. The flowers are yellowish-white, pro-
duced in large, dense panicles, in June. The flowers seem to be
peculiarly attractive to the rose-bugs, which sometimes disfigure
and spoil their beauty by the immense numbers which delight
to revel in its sweets. This shrub propagates itself too fast,
SPIRJEA. 299
as it throws up its suckers in great profusion, and makes itself
quite too common ; otherwise it would be a desirable plant for
the shrubbery.
S. bella. — Pretty Spiraea. — This is a dwarf species, about
three feet high, producing its beautiful pink flowers in little,
dense hemispherical heads, in June ; a neat little shrub, worthy
of a place in every collection.
S. Reevesii. — Mr. Reeves' Spiraea. — We consider this one
of the most elegant and desirable species of the whole family.
The flowers are of a snowy whiteness, produced in clusters, the
whole length of its graceful, arching stems, which, intermingled
with the handsome foliage, produce a pleasing effect. The
shrub is delicate in its growth, about four feet high, and flowers
in June. It is propagated by cuttings, layers, and suckers.
S. airifolia. — This is a very delicate species we have in our
collection, with exceedingly graceful, airy-like foliage, with
small heads of white flowers ; two or three feet high.
S. Icevigata. — Smooth-leaved Spiraea. — This species has
smooth lanceolate leaves, without serrature or notch. The
flowers are white, in compound racemes, somewhat fragrant.
It is not very showy, but, in a collection, makes up a variety ;
about two or three feet high.
S. argentia. — Silver-striped-leaved Spiraea. — This very del-
icate species has variegated leaves, with graceful, airy foliage,
similar in its habits to airifolia ; flowers nearly the same.
«S. trttobata. — Three-lobed-leaved Spiraea. — The leaves of
this species are bluntly three-lobed, and toothed, or notched.
The flowers are white, in stalked umbels, about three or four
feet high.
Take the species together, we do not know any genus of
plants where the foliage is so diversified. When grouped
together, they make a fine appearance, either in flower or
foliage. There are many other species that have not come
under our observation, which, no doubt, are as valuable for the
shrubbery as those described.
300 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
SYMPHORIA.
Snowberry.
Symphoria is from a combination of Greek words, signifying
" a plant which bears its fruit together in clusters."
Symphoria racemosa. — Common Snowberry. — This is a
delicate, hardy, North American shrub, extensively known and
much cultivated on account of its fine white berries, which are
quite ornamental, after the leaves have fallen. The flowers
are pink, and rather inconspicuous ; the shrub grows about
four feet high ; easily propagated by suckers.
S. glomerata. — Cluster-berried Symphoria, or Indian Cur-
rant. — This has no claims to beauty, as to the flowers, which,
like the last, are small and inconspicuous, of a pink color.
These are succeeded by dark brownish-purple berries, which
are thickly clustered upon the branches, three feet high. It is
propagated in the same way. Both these species thrive in the
shade and under the droppings of trees.
SYRINGA.
Lilac.
l( Various in •array, now white,
Now sanguine, and her beauteous head now set
With purple spikes pyramidal."
Syringa, — some say from Greek, an Arcadian nymph, or,
more properly, here, a pipe. The tubes of the finest Turkish
pipes are manufactured from the wood of it ; but the true root
of the word is to be found in sirinx, its native name in Barbary.
Lilac is a Persian word, signifying a flower. All the species
are most beautiful flowering shrubs, readily propagated by
suckers, which they throw up in abundance. The common
Lilac seems to have been introduced before or during the reign
TECOMA. 301
of Henry VIII., for in the inventory, taken by the order of
Cromwell, of the articles in the gardens of the palace of Non-
such, are mentioned six Lilacs, — " trees which bear no fruit,
but only a pleasant smell." — (Loudon.)
Syringa vulgaris. — The Common Lilac. — This is so well
known that it needs no description. The purple variety is
found in almost every garden; the white is more scarce.
Grown together, they are very beautiful; and, notwithstanding
they are old-fashioned, common, and vulgar, with some people,
we esteem them as some of our most valuable and ornamental
shrubs of the season.
S. Persica. — Persian Lilac. — This species is " far more
delicate and pretty than the common Lilacs, both in leaf and
blossom. The bunches of flowers are frequently a foot long, and
weigh down the tender terminal slender shoots so as to give the
plant a very graceful appearance. The white and purple, both
beautiful; the Cut-leaved Lilac has interesting and delicate
foliage." The Persian Lilac grows about four or five feet high.
All the species bloom the last of May and the first of June.
The common Lilacs are suitable for the back of the shrub-
bery. " This was one of the first plants introduced by our
forefathers, and is universally found ; often in the front of an-
cient houses, growing almost to the size of a tree." To make
a small tree of it, care must be taken to destroy all the suckers
and keep a clean stem. The Persian varieties are suitable for
planting in clumps, or in the front of the shrubbery. Some
beautiful new varieties have been imported within a few years,
producing immense clusters of flowers. There is one variety
with double flowers, but it is not an improvement.
TECOMA.
This genus has been separated from Bignonia, and now
includes T. radicans and T. grandiflora.
Tecoma radicans has been described under the head of Big-
nonia.
26
302 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
Tecoma grandiflora has flowered with us, but it is rather ten-
der in this climate. It is a native of China and Japan. " In
the growth of the wood it is rather more slender, and the
leaves more coarsely serrated than those of B. radicans. The
vine has the same habit of attaching itself firmly to a wall, or
building of stone, brick, or wood, or to the trunk of a tree
within its reach, by the numerous small air-rootlets which it
sends out from the inner sides of its shoots.
" In the blossoms of the Tecoma grandiflora, however, lies
its peculiar beauty. These are produced, in great profusion of
clusters, in July and August, so as to give- the whole plant an
exceedingly gay and lively appearance. They are not long and
tubular, like those of the common Trumpet Flower, but some-
what cup-shaped. ^ ^ ^ The color is beautifully varied,
the outside being a rich pure orange-scarlet, marked with
brighter streaks. These gay clusters open their blossoms in suc-
cession, so as to keep up a brilliant appearance for a long time;
and we are acquainted with no climbing shrub, except the
Chinese Wistaria, which at all vies in elegance or brilliancy
of effect, in the garden or pleasure-ground, with this during the
season of bloom. Last season, we counted over three hundred
in bloom, at once, upon a plant in our neighborhood; and the
same profuse display continued a fortnight or more.
" The Tecoma grandiflora may be grown with perfect ease
where the old Trumpet Flower (T. radicans} thrives. North
of this (Newburg, N. Y.) it will, perhaps, require a little pro-
tection in winter, such as a layer of straw tied over the larger
shoots, or some branches of evergreens laid against them at the
approach of winter. A northern site will also be found the
better one at the north, wherever there is a doubt of its hardi-
ness, since the temperature will, in such a site, be more uni-
form and less injurious than in a southern aspect. Wherever
the Isabella grape ripens, this handsome climbing shrub will be
easily cultivated in almost any situation. If there are any
fears of its hardiness, it may be protected, as we have pointed
out, for a couple of years, till the wood gets strong and well-
VIBURNUM. 303
hardened. Any dry, light, well-drained soil, suits this climber.
It should he made moderately rich, arid in such soil, when
planted against a wall, it will cover a space twelve or fourteen
feet square, in two or three seasons. It is well worthy the
attention of those who are looking for climbers of a permanent
kind, to cover unsightly walks, or close fences, or to render gar-
den buildings of any kind more ornamental, by a rich canopy
of foliage and bloom." — (Downing.)
. VIBURNUM.
Viburnum opulus. — Snowball Garden Rose. — This ele-
gant shrub is a common ornament of the garden, producing
large white bunches of flowers like those of the Hydrangea;
grouped with the Laburnum, purple and white Lilacs, double-
flowering Thorns, &c., it has a fine effect ; in flower the last
of May and June ; eight or ten feet high ; propagated from
suckers, layers, and cuttings.
Viburnum lentago. — Sweet Viburnum. — A" native species
of great beauty. Mr. Emerson describes it as a ""beautiful small
tree, rising to the height of fifteen to twenty feet, with rich
foliage, and clothed, in June, with a. profusion of delicate,
showy flowers." The flowers are produced in terminal cymes,
and from them a very agreeable fragrance is diffused. " There
is a softness and richness about the flowers and foliage of the
Sweet Vibernurn, which distinguish it above all others of the
same genus. It is hardly less beautiful in fruit, from the pro-
fusion of the rich blue berries hanging down among the
curled leaves, which are beginning to assume the beautiful
hues of autumn. A tree of this kind makes a fine appearance
at the angle of a walk, or in the corner of a garden, as its del-
icacy invites a near approach, and rewards examination. With
this delicacy of appearance, it is a hardy plant, and may some-
times be seen on the bleak hillside, where it has encountered
the north-west stormy winds for a score of years."
We think this Viburnum much more desirable than the
304 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
common Snowball. As it is found growing in uplands, no
doubt it will flourish in any garden loam, and propagated the
same as the Snowball.
We have a number of other species, which would well repay
cultivation. Most of them would require the same treatment
as the Azalea, and that class of plants, as they are found in
swamps and woods. Some of them are very beautiful, viz.,
V. dentatum, nudum, acerifolium, &c.
Viburnum lantanoides. — Wayfaring Tree, Hobble Bush. —
This fine native plant " received its specific name, lantanoides,
from its resemblance to the English Wayfaring Tree, V. lantana,
the tree which William addresses, when he says : —
' Wayfaring Tree ! what ancient claim
Hast thou to that right pleasant name ?
* * * * • *
Whate'er it be, I love it well, —
A name, methinks, that surely fell
From poet, in some evening dell,
Wandering with fancies sweet.'
" That tree rises to the height of eighteen or twenty feet,
and has an ample head of white flowers. Ours, less fortunate
in its name, is a stout, low bush, found in dark, rocky woods,
and making a show, in such solitary places, of a broad head of
flowers, the marginal ones often an inch across." =& ^ ^
" The leaves are from four to six inches in length and breadth,
roundish, heart-shaped at base, ending in a short, abrupt point,
and unequally serrave on the margin. They are smooth above,
but beneath downy on the veins, which are thereby rendered
strikingly distinct. * * * The fruit is ovate, large, of
bright crimson color, turning afterwards almost black." — (Em-
erson.} The first time we beheld this crooked, straggling shrub,
in flower, in its native haunts, a dark swamp, we thought it
one of the most ornamental shrubs of the country. It is cer-
tainly worthy of a place in every collection of shrubs. It will
no doubt succeed with the same treatment as the Rhododen-
WEIGELA. 305
dron, or Azalea, and may be propagated by seeds, layers, or
cuttings.
F. oxycoccus. — Cranberry Tree, High Cranberry. — "A
handsome low tree, five to ten feet in height, ornamented
throughout the year with flowers, or fruit. In May, or early
in June, it spreads open, at the end of every branch, a broad
cyme of soft, delicate flowers, surrounded by an irregular circle
of snow-white stars, scattered, apparently, for show. The
fruit, which is red when ripe, is of a pleasant acid taste,
resembling cranberries, for which it is sometimes substituted."
This shrub is said to be the parent of the Guilder Rose or
Snowball, V. opulus. Mr. Emerson calls this, F. opulus, and
the Snowball a variety, between which, according to Dr. Tor-
rey and Grey, there is no essential difference. It is one of our
handsomest native shrubs.
F. macrocephalum. — Great-clustered Snowball. — " This is
a new and splendid species, that has not been much, if any, cul-
tivated in this country. M. Van Houtte describes it as found
growing in the gardens about Chusan, China, where it forms a
shrub, or tree, twenty feet high. It flowers every year, in May,
producing its enormous clusters, which equal those of the old
garden Snowball, or ' Guilder Rose,' in purity of color, and far
eclipses them in size and beauty. Each blossom is more than
an inch across, and the clusters measure eight or ten inches in
diameter. The leaves are regularly oval, with short petioles,
and about three inches long. It flourishes, in the open border,
in the same soil as the common Snowball ; and M. Van
Houtte considers it one of the most beautiful additions to the
shrubbery." — (Downing.)
WEIGELA.
Weigela rosea. — The Rose-colored Weigela. — This is an-
other new shrub, introduced by Mr. Fortune into England from
China, first noticed here by Downing.
" When I first discovered this beautiful plant," says Mr. For-
26*
306 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
tune, " it was growing in a Mandarin's garden, on the island
of Chusan, and literally loaded with its fine rose-colored
flowers, which hung in graceful bunches from the axils of the
leaves, and the ends of the branches. Every one saw and ad-
mired the beautiful Weigela. 1 immediately marked it as one
of the finest plants of Northern China, and determined to send
plants of it home in every ship, until I should hear of its safe
arrival. It forms a neat bush, not unlike a Syringa (Philadel-
phus) in habit, deciduous in winter, and flowering in the months
of April and May. One great recommendation to it is, that it
is a plant of the easiest cultivation. Cuttings strike readily
any time during the winter and spring months, with ordinary
attention, and the plant itself grows well in any good garden
soil. It should be grown in this country as it is in China, not
tied up in that formal, unnatural way in which we see plants
brought to our exhibitions; but a main stem or two chosen for
leaders, which, in their turn, throw out branches from their
sides, and then, when the plant comes into bloom, the branches,
which are loaded with beautiful flowers, hang down in grace-
ful and natural festoons."
WISTARIA.
Wistaria. — This genus was formerly included in that of
Glycine, but has been separated from it, and named by Nuttall
in honor of Dr. Caspar Wistar.
Wistaria Sinensis. — The Chinese Wistaria. — This is one
of the most magnificent climbing shrubby plants in cultivation.
It was formerly treated, at the North, as a tender plant, and
might be seen trained to the rafters of the green-house, in full
flower, in March, with its thousands of rich clusters, or pen-
dulous racemes of delicate pale-purple blossoms, so numerous
that the whole space it occupied seemed to be covered with
them. Each raceme is from ten to twelve inches long, and
densely filled with its delicate and richly perfumed flowers. It
is easily raised from cuttings, or layers. In the open ground,
WISTARIA. 307
we have known it to make a growth of twenty-two feet in one
season ; and, with us, has not failed, excepting one year in the
last twelve, to produce an abundant bloom, and that without
the least protection. The December previous to the year in
which it did not bloom was a very warm one. The buds pre-
maturely started, and were winter-killed; it, however, flow-
ered in August, but not so perfectly as it should have done in
the spring. The flowers make their appearance before the
foliage starts, the last of May, in the open ground. The foliage
is abundant, and its color is a lively, pleasant hue of green.
The plants for the few first years are somewhat tender, at the
North, and should be laid down before winter sets in, and cov-
ered with earth, or coarse manure. It grows freely in almost
any soil ; but to have strong plants, it is important to have a
rich, deep loam. It will not flower till the plants get strong.
A new variety, with white flowers, was brought to England
from China, by Mr. Fortune. In planting out young vines,
they should be cut down to a single bud.
My plants generally produce scattering clusters of flowers,
during the last summer months, but are not equal to the clusters
produced in the spring. They are planted against a bank wall,
on the south side, and run in and out of it at pleasure, sending
out long branches in every direction, making free with all the
trees in the neighborhood, and running at random in a strange
manner. The wood needs shortening in February, or perhaps
it would be better to prune in December.
DESCRIPTIVE LIST OF EVERGREEN TREES, SUITABLE FOR THE
SHRUBBERY, LAWN, OR PROTECTIVE BELT FOR BUILDINGS,
GARDENS, ORCHARDS, &C.
THE value and importance of protection afforded to build-
ings, gardens, and orchards, by a belt of evergreen trees, in a
climate like New England, are but little appreciated or under-
stood even by our most intelligent amateurs and horticulturists.
To say nothing of the pleasing and grateful appearance of such
a plantation, well arranged, to a person of taste, at a season of
the year when, without evergreens, everything out of doors looks
drear and cheerless, as a subject of real comfort and utility, it
is one which deserves the serious consideration of every one
who desires good fruit, rare flowers, or comfortable quarters.
An evergreen hedge, or, what is better, a belt of evergreen
trees, excludes the cold, searching winds, and enables the hor-
ticulturist to bring to perfection many fruits and flowers that
would not, without such protection, be enjoyed. Let it be
tried, and there will be found a material difference in the range
of thermometers placed on both sides of such a belt. As a
matter of taste, no one will deny that a variety of evergreens,
judiciously planted, adds much to the ornament and beauty of
a country residence. Where there is to be any pretension to a
shrubbery, a backing of evergreen trees is indispensable. The
intermingling of the many deciduous shrubs, bearing ornamen-
tal, persistent berries, with the diversified growth and varied
colors of the wood, gives, even in winter, a cheerful and pleas-
ant aspect to the pleasure-grounds ; and, in summer, when the
shrubs and trees are clothed in their magnificent apparel,
adorned with their gorgeous flowers, the back-ground of hem-
lock, fir, spruce or pine, makes a fine contrast, and gives addi-
tional beauty to the various forms, colors, and shades, of the
foliage and flowers of the deciduous plants and trees.
EVERGREEN TREES. 309
To understand to perfection the most harmonious arrange-
ment of evergreen trees, a person should travel a few days in
some parts of the State of Maine, the home of a large portion
of this beautiful tribe. Let him study, for a while, the ex-
quisite groups and combinations of the various species, as he
finds them carelessly and naturally arranged in their native
habitats, and he need not study books, or consult the landscape
gardener, to be informed of the best style of planting his ever-
greens, and other shrubs or trees. He will find Nature the
best teacher.
There is no greater departure from correct taste, than to
plant the fir, or other evergreens of that habit, singly, or in
regular rows. The hemlock, Norway spruce, and others,
may sometimes be planted singly on the lawn ; but, as a gen-
eral rule, most of the evergreens should be planted in groups,
or belts, varied with the different sorts. Evergreens seem to
be social in their habits, if we may so speak ; they seem to
flourish best when grown together. Some of the evergreen
trees, planted in the solitary style, soon lose their lower limbs,
become ragged and unsightly, — a nuisance and an eye-sore to
those who are compelled to see them from day to day. Natu-
rally, from cold latitudes, they require the protection and shel-
ter of each other, to screen their roots from the powerful action
of the summer's sun. When grouped together, and the lower
branches encouraged to grow to the ground, they receive this
protection, and will give ample satisfaction to those who adopt
this style of planting.
Our own country affords all the variety needful to make an
elegant shrubbery, a warm belt, or protective hedge. But
there are many evergreens, of foreign growth, that are desira-
ble, to give additional variety and charm to a collection of our
own trees. Some of them, as yet, are of doubtful hardiness ;
but, under the lee of our beautiful hemlocks, spruces, or pines,
they will be placed in the most favorable circumstances for suc-
cessful trial ; and not only these, but the magnolias, rhododen-
310 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
drons, and other equally difficult trees and shrubs to manage
in a northern climate, will, if anywhere, succeed.
Mr. Downing says : " Well-grown belts of evergreens, pines,
and furs, which,
' in conic forms arise,
And with a pointed spear divide the skies,'
have, in their congregated strength, a power of shelter and pro-
tection that no inexperienced person can possibly understand,
without actual experience and the evidence of his own senses.
Many a place, almost uninhabitable from the rude blasts of
wind that sweep over it, has been rendered comparatively calm
and sheltered. Many a garden, so exposed that the cultivation
of tender trees and plants was almost impossible, has been ren-
dered mild and genial in its climate, by the growth of a close
shelter, composed of masses and groups of Evergreen Trees."
Most of the northern Evergreen Trees are enumerated and
described by Mr. Emerson, in his excellent work on " The
Trees and Shrubs of Massachusetts," to which we would refer
our readers for many interesting details and particulars, and
from which we have made many extracts.
He says : " The pines, firs, junipers, cypresses, larches,
hemlock, and yews, with some foreign trees, form a very distinct
and natural group. The name Evergreen, by which they are
commonly known, is liable to the exception, that one of the
genera found in this climate, the Larch, loses its leaves in win-
ter. The Evergreens are divided into three sections : —
" 1st. Those whose fruit is a true cone, with numerous im-
bricate scales, like the fir and pine.
" 2d. Those with a globular, compound fruit, like the cypress
and arbor vitae.
"3d. Those with a globular, compound fruit, like the yew."
PINUS. 311
PINUS.
The Pine Family.
In this genus, Finns, are the White, Pitch, and Norway
Pines, familiar to all.
Pinus sylvestris, — or Scotch Pine, — is found in the British
Islands. There is a specimen of this tree at the Botanic Gar-
den, Cambridge. It has some resemblance to Pitch Pine,
(Pinus rigida,) but has more claim to beauty, of which the
other has none, or very little. The Scotch Pine, or Fir, as it
is called, differs from the Pitch Pine, in having its leaves in
twos, instead of threes. Their color, also, is of a more glaucous
green, and, if we remember right, they are also longer than the
Pitch Pine. The Pitch Pine is so often seen in barren, sterile
soils, that barrenness seems to be associated with it ; and, as it
has no claim to elegance, we should not recommend this, only
for the sake of variety, and this in the back-ground. A few trees
of the Scotch Pine may also be admissible, for the same rea-
son, in large plantations.
P. resinosus. — Red or Norway Pine. — This tree is more
ample in its dimensions, growing from fifty to one hundred feet
high, in Maine. In this State it is not very common. The
leaves are in twos, and much longer than on the Pitch Pine.
We should not recommend this species only where there are
extensive grounds to decorate.
P. strobus. — The White Pine. — This tree is familiar to
all, growing to a stately size in the most favorable locations,
having been known to attain the height of 264 feet, in Lancas-
ter, N. H., by actual measurement, according to reliable infor-
mation given to Mr. Emerson by Dr. Dwight ; and that they
were frequently found 250 feet in height and six feet in diame-
ter. This is about equal to the California trees, of which we
have accounts. The White Pine is known by its leaves being
in fives. The character of this genus is in having their leaves
in a sheath of two, three, or five together. " For ornamental
312 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
purposes, of all the well-known Pines," says Mr. Downing,
" we give the preference to our native White Pine. The soft,
agreeable hue of its pliant foliage, the excellent form of the
tree, and its adaptation to a great variety of soils and sites, are
all recommendations not easily overlooked. Besides, it bears
transplanting well; and is, on this account, also, more gener-
ally seen than any other species in our ornamental plantations.
But its especial merit, as an ornamental tree, is the perpetually
fine, rich, lively green of its foliage. In the Northern States,
many evergreens lose their bright color in midwinter, owing to
the severity of the cold ; and, though they regain it quickly in
the first mild days of spring, yet this temporary dinginess, at
the season when verdure is rarest and most prized, is, undenia-
bly, a great defect. Both the Hemlock and the White Pine are
exceptions. Even in the greatest depression of the thermom-
eter known to our neighbors on the * disputed boundary '
line, we believe the verdure of these trees is the same fine,
unchanging green. Again, this thin summer growth is of such
a soft and lively color, that they are (unlike some of the other
Pines, the Red Cedar, &c.,) as pleasant to look upon, even in
June, as any fresh and full-foliaged and deciduous tree, rejoic-
ing in all its full breadth of new summer robes. We, there-
fore, place the White Pine among the first in the regards of
the ornamental planter." To this opinion we give our cordial
assent.
P. pinaster " is a native of the South of Europe, much culti-
vated in England as an ornamental tree." Of this species we
have no acquaintance, any more than we have with P. Lam-
bertiana, P. Sabiniaria, P. ponderosa, and others, natives of
California and other parts of the North-west Coast, which, no
doubt, will prove hardy here, and be a great acquisition to our
collection of Pines ; but, as yet, they have not appeared
amongst us, with the exception of a few small specimens raised
from seed, in possession of curious amateurs in such matters.
P. Austrica. — " The Austrian Pine," Downing says, " for
a rapid-growing, bold, picturesque evergreen, is well deserving
ABIES. 313
attention. We find it remarkably hardy, adapting itself to all
soils, (though said to grow naturally in Austria, on the lightest
sands.) A specimen here, grew nearly three feet last season ;
and its bold, stiff foliage, is sufficiently marked to arrest the
attention among all other evergreens." The same gentleman
says of the Pinus cembra, the Swiss Stone Pine : " We find it
perfectly hardy in this latitude. This tree produces an eatable
kernel, and, though of comparatively slow growth, is certainly
one of the most interesting of the Pine family."
ABIES.
The Spruce.
According to Emerson, " Three species are found in Massa-
chusetts : —
" 1st. The Hemlock has small, pointed, pendulous, terminal
cones, and thin, flat leaves.
" 2d. The Black Spruce has dependent, egg-shaped cones,
with scales waved and jagged at the edge.
" 3d. The White Spruce has longer cones, also dependent
and spindle-shaped, with scales smooth and entire at the edge.
" Both have four-angled, awl-shaped leaves."
The Norway Spruce, now becoming well known as a hardy,
ornamental evergreen, is finer than either the Black or White
Spruce, and is distinguished from them by its much longer
cylindrical cones, thick foliage, and drooping branches.
Abies Canademis. — The Hemlock. — This elegant tree, for
some reason, has not been introduced into our pleasure-grounds
to any great extent ; for what reason, we know not. We have
seen it, in great magnificence, in the grounds of Mr. J. S. C.
Green, of Waltham, grown upon a lawn, singly, and intermin-
gled with other trees. We remarked to the gardener, that these
were the finest specimens we had ever seen, except in its na-
tive haunts, and said that it was supposed to be an exceedingly
difficult tree to transplant. He replied, this was not the case,
27
314 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
— that it was no more uncertain with this than with other
evergreens; and pointed to a tree, thirty or forty feet high,
clothed with branches to the ground, which, he said, he trans-
planted from another part of the ground to where it now stood,
but a few years since, it being then six inches in diameter. It
was taken up so carefully that the growth was hardly checked.
The great trouble with this, as with all evergreens when
taken from the woods, is, that it is difficult to save all the roots.
They are then often exposed to the sun and air, which, to an
evergreen, is more hazardous to its prosperity, than it would be
to a deciduous tree. The change of soil and location, to the
tree, with only a portion of its roots, which, with the exposure,
and, perhaps, too deep planting, proves to be death to the tree.
For this reason, trees grown in a nursery are more sure to live
than those taken from the forests ; having been transplanted
into rows and root-pruned, their roots are in small compass,
and, as they are generally taken up with a ball of earth, they
are almost sure to live. We hope to see the Hemlock more
extensively cultivated in our nurseries.
" The Hemlock Spruce, or Hemlock, as, throughout New
England, it is universally called, is the most beautiful tree of
the family. It is distinguished from all the other Pines by the
softness and delicacy of its tufted foliage; from the Spruce, by
its slender, tapering branches, and the smoothness of its limbs ;
and from the Balsam Fir, by its small terminal cones, by the
irregularity of its branches, and the gracefulness of its whole
appearance.
" The young trees, by their numerous irregular branches,
clothed with foliage of a delicate green, form a rich mass of
verdure ; and when, in the beginning of summer, each twig is
terminated with a tuft of yellowish-green recent leaves, surmount-
ing the darker-green of the former year, the effect, as an object
of beauty, is equalled by very few flowering shrubs, and far
surpasses that produced by any other tree.
" The Hemlock is said, by Parsh, to extend to the most northern
regions in Canada, and was found by Mr. Menzies in North-
ABIES NICE A. 315
west America. It is found in every part of this State, on
almost every variety of soil. It flourishes in the ruins of
granitic rocks, on the sides of hills exposed to the violence of
storms. As it bears pruning to almost any degree, without suf-
fering injury, it is well fitted to form screens for the protection
of more tender trees and plants, or for concealing disagreeable
objects. By being planted in double or triple rows, it may, in
a few years, be made to assume the appearance of an impene-
trable evergreen-wall, — really impenetrable to the wind and to
domestic animals. A hedge of this kind, seven or eight feet
high, on a bleak, barren plain, exposed to the north-west winds,
gave Dr. Greene, of Mansfield, a warm, sunny, sheltered spot
for the cultivation of delicate annual plants. When I saw it,
the annuals, several of which were rare exotics, were beautiful,
but the Hemlock screen much more so." — (E,merso7i.}
The Hemlock is of slow growth till it gets well established ;
it then makes rapid progress, and finally becomes a large tree.
The Hemlock should never be planted without some other tree
to nurse or protect it. If designed for a single tree for the lawn,
or in any other exposed situation, others of its kind, should be
planted to shade and ..shelter it, which may be taken away as
soon as the tree becomes well rooted.
ABIES NIGRA.
The Black Spruce.
" The Black and the White Spruce are commonly called the
Double and Single Spruce. The Double is distinguished from
the Single Spruce, by the darker color of the foliage, whence
its name of Black Spruce, by the greater thickness in propor-
tion to the length of the cones, and by the looseness of the
scales, which are jagged, or toothed, on the edge.
"When the tree stands by itself, in a sheltered situation
favorable to its growth, the stages, or whorls, (of its branches)
are regularly disposed, and, diminishing gradually in length
316 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWEKS.
from the ground to the top, form a conical head of strikingly reg-
ular and symmetrical proportions. To the unpractised eye this
mathematical exactness of shape is beautiful ; and the Spruce
is a favorite tree, and is often placed in the near vicinity of
houses. But to one, studious of variety and picturesque effect,
the regular cone becomes stiff and monotonous, and the unva-
rying dark-green of the foliage has a sombre and melancholy
aspect. The leaves are dark-green, two or three fifths of an
inch long." — (Emerson.}
Abies alba. — The Single or White Spruce. — The same
author as above describes the White Spruce " as a more slender
and tapering tree of the swamps, marked by the light color of
the bark and lighter green of the leaves. It rarely rises to the
height of forty or fifty feet. It is perfectly straight, with nu-
merous, somewhat irregularly scattered, branches, forming a
head of the same shape as that of the Double Spruce, but less
broad, and with foliage of a less gloomy color; whence its
name. The leaves are of a light bluish -green, in spirals
rather closely set, and equally on all sides of the shoot." We
found this species growing on the top of a mountain in Maine,
near Penobscot Kiver. The whole mountain-top was inter-
spersed with groups of the most perfect-shaped Spruces of this
description that could be imagined. They were not more than
twenty or thirty feet high, crowded with branches from the
ground to the top, forming perfect pyramids of evergreen, so
thick that it seemed a fit retreat for any wild animal, or bird,
that might seek shelter among its profuse foliage. The lower
branches, reclined upon the ground, are so spreading, that the
base of the pyramid appeared to be nearly the same width as the
height of the tree. A few groups of this description would be
magnificent decorations to the pleasure-ground. But such
beautiful specimens could hardly be expected, even in this cli-
mate, so far out of its natural haunts, or latitude, where it is
found in its highest perfection.
A. communis. — Norway Spruce. — This, as we have
already remarked, is finer than either the Black or White
ABIES.
317
Spruce. Loudon says : "It is of the tallest of European Firs,
with a very straight, but riot thick, trunk. It is a native of the
north of Germany and Russia, and particularly abundant in
Norway. The tree is peculiarly valuable as a nurse, from being-
evergreen and closely covered with branches, by which radi-
ated heat is retained ; from its conical shape and rigid stem,
by which it does not suffocate or whip the adjoining trees ;
from its being valuable at whatever age it is thinned out ; and
from its being an excellent shelter for the most valuable game.
It is also an excellent hedge plant or shelter." Mr. Downing,
in speaking of it, says : " In fact, it is so useful and valuable a
tree, that it is destined to become much more popular still. So
hardy, that it is used as a nurse plant, to break off the wind in
exposed sites, and shelter more tender trees in young planta-
tions ; so readily adapting itself to any site, that it thrives upon
all soils, from light sand and dry gravel, to deep, moist loam or
clay ; so accommodating in its habits, that it will grow under
the shade of other trees, or in the most exposed positions. There
is no planter of new places, or improver of old ones, who will
not find it necessary to call it in for his assistance. Then,
again, the variety of purposes for which the trees maybe used,
is so indefinite. Certainly there are few trees more strikingly
picturesque than a fine Norway Spruce, forty or fifty years
old, towering up from a base of thick branches, which droop and
fall to the very lawn, and hang off in those depending curves,
which make it such a favorite with the artist."
" Abies pukherr'mm of Virgil. — The European Silver Fir.
— Similar and superior to the Balsam Fir, and which grows
to the height of one hundred or one hundred and fifty feet, and
even more ; grows with great vigor in our gardens and nur-
series, and wherever else it has been tried. It is an inhabitant
of the mountains of the South of Europe.
" But still more remarkable and desirable trees of this genus
are found on the western side of the continent. Such is the
tree called Douglass' Spruce Fir, Abies Douglassii, from the
name of the person who introduced it into England. In its
27*
318 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
native forests it varies from one hundred to two hundred and
eighty feet in height ; and a stump is mentioned as still found
on the Columbia River, which measures forty-eight feet in cir-
cumference at three feet from the ground, exclusive of its very
thick bark." — (Emerson.}
PICEA.
The Fir.
The Fir tribe are suitable for ornamenting the shrubbery or
lawn, when planted in groups, but not proper for single speci-
mens. " They are remarkable for the regularity and symme-
try of their pyramidal heads. The leaves are solitary, needle-
shaped, rigid, sempervirent, supposed by botanists formed of
two, grown together. They are distinguished from the other
Pines by the smoothness of their bark, in which are formed
cavities or crypts, containing their peculiar balsam ; by the sil-
very whiteness of the under surface of the seemingly two-
rowed leaves, and by their long, erect cones, formed of woody
deciduous scales, with a smooth, thin edge.
"Picea balsamifera. — The Balsam Fir. — This beautiful
evergreen resembles the Spruce in its regular pyramidal form.
It differs from it in its bark, which is smooth when young, and
continues so until it has attained a considerable age ; in its
leaves, which are nearly flat, and of a beautiful silver color
beneath ; and in having large, upright cones. It has a strong
resemblance to the Silver Fir of Europe, a much loftier and
nobler tree. The American tree is known by the name of the
Fir Balsam, or Balsam Fir, or simply Fir." " It is hardy,
easily transplanted, and grows rapidly and with great vigor, and
possesses in a high degree the most important qualities of the
evergreens, as an ornamental tree, — a regular pyramidal shape,
and rich, deep-green foliage. The large cones, with which
the upper branches are often loaded, give it additional beauty.
Its defects are its stiffness, and the ragged ness which it assumes
in old age, which comes on early, as it is a short-lived tree.
LARIX. 319
Its chief recommendations are its hardiness, and quickness
of growth." — (Emerson.)
P. Fraseri. — The Double Balsam Fir. — According to Em-
erson, this species has a great resemblance to the Balsam
Fir, with very little to distinguish them, except that, in the
Double Fir, the leaves are usually more crowded. " The ma-
ture cone presents a ready and certain distinction. It is of
about half the length, and two thirds the thickness, of the com-
mon Fir. There are, also, some other small differences,
which, however, are not sufficient, in the eyes of the common
people, to make two distinct species. From the great richness
and luxuriance of the foliage, the Double Balsam is a very
beautiful tree, and its leaves diffuse a peculiarly agreeable res-
inous odor." It is a smaller tree than the Balsam Fir.
LARIX.
The Hacmatack — Larch.
The Larch is not an evergreen, but, as it comes under the
same natural division, and is found growing in company with
them, we shall notice it here. For ornamental purposes the
American Larch (Larix American] is much inferior to the Eu-
ropean species, (Larix communis.)
" The Larches are deciduous trees, of cold and mountain-
ous regions of both continents. They are distinguished from
the other Pines by their leaves, which grow many together, in
bundles, from the top of buds, whose scales are as persistent
as the leaves."
They grow from forty to eighty feet high. The European
is extensively cultivated in England and Scotland for timber ;
many thousands of acres of poor, waste land are improved to
great advantage for this purpose.
For ornamental purposes the Larch is important, on account
of its rapid growth, beautiful symmetrical shape, and thick
foliage, which is of an agreeable light bluish-green. The
320 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
foliage differs from all the other cone-bearing trees, by the
delicacy of its texture ; late in autumn it turns to a soft,
leather-yellow color, and, in the first days of November, falls.
The Larch is in foliage very early in the spring, and forms a
rich contrast to the dark evergreens. The lower branches of
the Larch should never be pruned off; as the great beauty of
the tree consists in its being clothed to the ground with its rich
foliage.
There is a variety, called the Weeping Larch, (Larix pen-
dula,} which is still more beautiful than either of the others.
The foliage is much larger; the branches somewhat drooping.
Larix cedrus. — Cedar of Lebanon, — This magnificent
evergreen tree, of the Larch family, is reputed to be a little ten-
der in New England ; but, planted where it may receive pro-
tection from our more hardy evergreen trees, we have no doubt
it will stand without any difficulty, after it has become well
established. In the Middle and Southern States there is no
doubt but it will thrive and grow for centuries, as it is said it
does in its native country. " It is unquestionably the most
celebrated tree of the genus, and not less remarkable for the
irregular grandeur of its form. The general character of its
shoot, even when the tree is young, is singularly bold and pic-
turesque, and quite different from that of every other species of
the tribe. It is a native of the coldest parts of the mountains
of Libanus, Amanus and Taurus ; but it is now to be found in
those places in great numbers. The great use of the cedar is
to plant singly on lawns, or in the margin of plantations, where
one or two specimens will give force and character to the dull-
est front of round-headed trees." — (London.}
Mr. Downing says: "The most remarkable peculiarity in
the Cedar of Lebanon is the horizontal disposition of its wide-
spreading branches. This is riot apparent in very young trees,
but soon becomes so as they begin to develop large heads.
Though in altitude this tree is exceeded by some of the pines
lately discovered in Oregon, which reach truly gigantic
heights, yet, in breadth and massiveness, it far exceeds all ever
LARK. 321
green trees, and when old and finely developed on every side,
is not equalled, in ornamental point of view, by any sylvan tree
of temperate regions. Its character being essentially grand'
and magnificent, it therefore should only be planted where
there is sufficient room for its development on every side.
Crowded amongst other trees, all its fine breadth and massive-
ness is lost, and it is drawn up with a narrow head like any
other of the Pine family. But, planted in the midst of a broad
lawn, it will eventually form a sublime object, far more impres-
sive and magnificent than most of the country houses which
belong to the private life of a republic.
" The Cedar of Lebanon grows in almost any soil, from the
poorest gravel to the richest loam. It has been remarked, in
England, that its growth is most rapid in localities where,
though planted in a good dry soil, its roots can reach water,
such as situations near the margin of ponds or springs. In
general, its average growth, in this country, in favorable soil,
is about one foot in a year ; and, where the soil is very deeply
trenched before planting, or when its roots are not stinted in
the supply of moisture during the summer, it frequently ad-
vances with double that rapidity.
" Although hardy here, we understand in New England
it requires slight protection in winter, while the trees are quite
small. The shelter afforded by sticking a few branches of
evergreen in the ground around it, will fully answer the purpose.
Wherever the Isabella Grape matures fully in the open air,
it may be successfully cultivated. The cone of the Cedar of
Lebanon is about four inches long and beautifully drawn.
" The only reason why this grandest and most interesting of '
all evergreen trees, which may be grown in this country as
easily as the Hemlock, wherever the peach bears well, has not
already been extensively planted, is owing to two causes.
First, that its wants and adaptation to our soil and climate are
not generally known ; and, second, that it has, as yet, without
any sufficient reason, been difficult to procure it, even in our
largest nurseries."
322 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
THE CYPBESS TRIBE.
" The plants which belong to this section have not their
fruit in a true cone, but in a globular or irregular head, consist-
ing of a number of scales, sometimes united into a sort of
berry. The section includes the Arbor Vitas, the Juniper, the
Red and White Cedar, the Cypress and the exotic genus Cal-
listris. Most of the section are natives of warmer climates.
Those which belong to New England are evergreen, but
scarcely resinous. They may be propagated by layers and
cuttings, but more readily by seeds, which generally lie in the
ground a year. The young plants are to be treated like pines."
ARBOR VIT.E.
Cedar — Thuya.
" The name of the genus is derived from a Greek word, sig-
nifying to sacrifice; it having been used, from the agreeable odor
of the wood, in sacrificial offerings."
Thuya occidentalis. — The American Arbor Vitae. — This is
a small evergreen tree, growing from thirty to forty, or even
fifty, feet in height. It is remarkable for its graceful, pyra-
midal, spire-like shape, thickly clothed with branches from the
ground to the apex. " The leaves are evergreen, arranged in
four rows, in alternately opposite pairs, completely investing
and seeming to make up the fan-like branchiets. They are
scale-like, marked with a projecting gland below the point,
each lower pair embracing and covering the base of the pair
above. The branchiets which they cover are arranged in a
single plane, as if they were parts of a large, compound, flat,
pinnate leaf. These planes are various, inclined to the hori-
zon, often vertical, and form the striking peculiarity of this pic-
turesque tree." The foliage is of a yellowish-green, and con-
trasts finely with the Fir and other evergreens. The Arbor
CTTPRESSUS. 323
Vitse forms a very ornamental hedge, and is coming very much
into use, for protecting gardens from the cold, for which pur-
pose it is admirably adapted. As a fence for keeping out
cattle, we do not think it is sufficient. The Arbor Vitse is sure
to live when taken from nurseries ; but as they are frequently
purchased in the city, in crates, from Maine, they are very un-
certain, probably on account of the long exposure of the roots to
the sun and air, after they are dug, before they are packed.
These young plants may generally be had in Boston for about
thirty dollars per thousand. Before they are planted out to
form the hedge, they should be grown one or two years in nur-
sery rows. With the greatest care, many will die. When
those that survive have become firmly established, the most
vigorous may be selected, and, having the ground well pre-
pared, set them out about nine inches or a foot distant from
each other ; if they are taken up, and set out carefully, not one
in a hundred will fail ; but if they are set out immediately
upon receiving them, probably not one in four will thrive. The
Arbor Vitee bears pruning well, and may be brought into any
desired shape, and a single row will form an almost impene-
trable screen.
CUPRESSUS.
Cedar, or Cypress.
" The Cypresses, to which this genus belongs, are low, ever-
green trees, natives of Europe, Asia, and North America, and
remarkable for their spiry form, and the closeness of grain,
and the durability of their wood. They have roundish, or
polyhedral cones, called galboles, and small, imbricated, scale-
like, four-rowed leaves. By the ancients the cypress was con-
sidered an emblem of immortality ; with the moderns, it is em-
blematical of sadness and mourning.
' Dark tree ! still sad, when others' grief is fled,
The only constant mourner of the dead.' — Byron.
324 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
" Cupressics thyoides. — The White Cedar. — This is always
a graceful and beautiful tree. Even when growing in its
native swamps, hemmed in on all sides, and struggling for
existence, the top, and branches too, near the top, will be
marked by a characteristic elegance of shape, which no other
of the family possesses. It is entirely free from the stiffness
of the Pines, and to the spiry top of the Poplar, and the
grace of the Cypress, it unites the airy lightness of the Hem-
lock. The White Cedar connects the Arbor Vitae with the
Cypresses. It has the characters of both; the scale-like, imbri-
cate leaves and fan-shaped branches of the former, and the
lofty, port and globular, or many-sided, fruit of the latter." —
(Emerson.)
We are not aware that this beautiful native tree has been
cultivated for ornamental purposes ; we see no reason why it
should not. It may be easily raised from seed, which require
eighteen months, if planted in autumn, to vegetate. From its
dense mass of thick foliage, it will make a fine protecting
screen, whether grown as a hedge or as a belt of trees.
Cupressus semper vir ens. — The Common Cypress of Europe.
— " This is a tall, graceful, plume-shaped tree, the common and
suitable ornament for burying places on the Levant ; suc-
ceeds in the open air in various parts of Britain, and would
probably succeed in sheltered places here."
JUNIPERUS.
0
The Juniper.
" The Junipers are evergreen trees or shrubs, found in all
quarters of the globe."
Juniperus Virginiana. — The Red Cedar. — Savin. — This
is a very common evergreen tree, of low growth, found in great
abundance in the neighborhood of Boston, with rather dark,
sober-looking foliage. Although so common and monotonous in
its appearance on the rocky shores of Massachusetts, it may be
JUNIPERUS. 325
introduced with good effect among other evergreen trees. We
have seen an impervious hedge made of it. For this purpose the
plants should be raised from the seed, which, like the White Ce-
dar, will require eighteen months to vegetate. " The Red Cedar
is distinguished from the White and the Arbor Vitae, — the only
trees which it resembles, — by having its fruit in the form of a
berry, and its leaves exhibiting but slightly a tendency to arrange
themselves in a plane." The blue berries, that are sometimes
produced in great profusion, add much to the interest of the
tree, when they are ripe, in the months of October and Novem-
ber. The Red Cedar assumes various shapes, but generally
Gothic-like in style. We have noticed a small tree, in our
neighborhood, that is perfectly plume-like in shape, rising up
twelve or fifteen feet, with a base of only about three. The
Red Cedar is very valuable for posts, its wood being almost
incorruptible. They are generally carefully pruned of their
lower branches, which spoils the beauty of the tree. For orna-
ment, they should be encouraged to throw off branches from
the ground.
/. communis. — The Common Juniper. — This is a prostrate
evergreen shrub, troublesome to eradicate, and of no use for
ornament.
Among the new evergreen trees desirable for introduction,
particularly in a more southern region, are the Deodara Cedar,
(Cedrus deodar,} and the Chilian Pine, (Araucaria imbricate.)
We hope they may also succeed in this region ; they certainly
deserve a trial. They are noticed in Downing's Horticulturist,
who says of the Deodar Cedar : " The general habit of this tree,
as has been already remarked, is that of the Cedar of Lebanon,
which it most nearly resembles. Its foliage, however, is larger,
of a lighter, more silvery hue, and the branches have more of
a drooping habit, and more feathery lightness, than the Cedar
of Lebanon. The fact that it grows more rapidly, will serve
as an additional recommendation to the lover of fine trees.
This is still a very rare tree. There are yet no specimens in
America over a few feet in height." The same author re-
28
326 BKECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
marks : " South of New York, it will certainly form one of the
most beautiful of ornamental trees ;" but in a northern latitude
it may not succeed so well. Bishop Heber describes it " as the
glory of the Himalayas, — a splendid tree, with gigantic arms,
and dark, narrow leaves."
Araucaria imbricata, — or Chilian Pine. — The editor of the
Horticulturist is of opinion that, from the experience of a num-
ber of seasons, this tree will prove hardy in the latitude of New
York, and quotes a description of it from the London Horticul-
tural Magazine : " Leaves generally eight together, ovate
lance-shaped, thickened at the base, stiff, straight, with persis-
tent mucros ; cones globular at the end of the branches, about
the size of a man's hand ; scales beautifully imbricated.
" A remarkable evergreen tree, of magnificent dimensions,
almost the only one to be met with in those districts where it is
indigenous. It is a high tree, from eighty to one hundred feet,
with a trunk like a pillar. Standing closely together in the
forest, the trees are generally devoid of branches to the height
of fifty or sixty feet. The top is in the shape of a depressed
cone ; the side branches proceeding from the trunk in a hori-
zontal direction, and ascending lightly at the tips. Over those
branches the leaves are thickly set, like scales, which give an
appearance of richly-embossed work. From the thick coating
of leaves which pervades the whole outlines of the tree, an
idea of some brittleness is conveyed to the mind. The wood,
however, was successfully used in ship-building, in 1780, by
Don Francisco Dendariarena." " This plant is a native of
Chili, in South America. The tree is particularly ornamental,
and no plant can be used with greater effect in distinguishing
particular spots of country appropriated to art. It should be on
every gentleman's lawn. It is both elegant and unique."
A DESCRIPTION OF SOME OF THE INSECTS THAT ARE INJU-
RIOUS TO THE PLANTS OF THE FLOWER-GARDEN.
To give a description of all the insects that infest the plants
of the flower-garden, it would be necessary to write a volume,
so numerous are the voracious tribe that prey upon the roots,
stems, foliage, and flowers of the floral kingdom. The depre-
dation of insects is one of the greatest offsets to the pleas-
ures of the garden. To nurse some favorite plant, watching
over it from day to day, anticipating its opening beauties, and
then, just as one's hopes are upon the point of being realized,
to see the plant suddenly smitten with some mysterious dis-
ease, or as suddenly destroyed by some noxious tribe of ver-
min,— perhaps dying in a night, like Jonah's gourd, — who
can help feeling a little ruffled, or even like justifying good old
Jonah, who thought it " well to be angry for his gourd ? "
The knowledge we possess of the habits of the various in-
sects is very scanty. We are indebted, mainly, to that excel-
lent work, " A Treatise on some of the Insects of New England,
which are injurious to Vegetation," by Dr. T. W. Harris, of
Cambridge, Mass., for all that is important in relation to them
in this section of our work. Dr. Harris' Treatise should be
accessible to every one who has anything to do with the culti-
vation of the farm or garden. His descriptions are so plain,
that almost any person may get all the desirable information
of all the insects of which he treats. It is said by competent
persons, that this Treatise is the most complete, as far as it
goes, of any work in the English language.
Some of the most annoying insects of the flower-garden, are
the Rose Sawfly, or Rose Slug, and the Rose Bug.
Rose Slug. — The Rose Slug has, within a few years, proved
very destructive to the Rose, in the vicinity of Boston, and
328 BRECK'S BOOK or FLOWERS.
probably in other parts of the country ; so much so, that many
persons have almost abandoned the cultivation of this most de-
sirable of all flowers. A few years since, the Massachusetts
Horticultural Society offered the liberal special premium of
$100 for an efficient remedy. An application of diluted whale-
oil soap was discovered, by Mr. David Haggerston, to be a com-
plete remedy, when seasonably applied, and the premium was
awarded to him. We shall insert his communication to the
Society, in which he details the mode of preparation and appli-
cation.
The Rose Slug, if not checked in season, destroys the foliage,
and the plants look as if they had been scorched by fire. We
have known delicate growing roses killed to the ground by
these small, but destructive, insects.
One great objection to the use of whale-oil soap is the disa-
greeable odor it gives to the plant, which, if applied at the time
the roses are in bloom, spoils them entirely. When the insect
is in the fly-state they may be found in great numbers on the
under sides of the leaves. The whale-oil soap will destroy
them in that state, if it is applied with force, as with a syringe,
or garden engine.
If the application is made in season, and followed up, every
two or three days, till the roses begin to open their buds, the
slug will either be exterminated, or so far checked as to pre-
serve the foliage till the bloom is about over, when a new
attack must be made upon the surviving vermin, which by this
time have acquired their full size. It takes two or three days
to rid the plants of the disagreeable odor, after the application.
We give Dr. Harris' description of the insect entire : —
" The Saw-fly of the rose, which, as it does not seem to
have been described before, may be called Selandria roses, from
its favorite plant, so nearly resembles the slug-worm saw-fly as
not to be distinguished therefrom, except by a practised ob-
server. It is also very much like Selandria barda, vitis, and
pygmcea, but has not the red thorax of these three closely
allied species. It is of a deep and shining black color. The
INSECTS. 329
first two pairs of legs are brownish-gray, or dirty white, except
the thighs, which are almost entirely black. The hind legs
are black, with whitish knees. The wings are smoky, and
transparent, with dark-brown veins, and a brown spot near the
middle of the edge of the first pair. The body of the male is
a little more than three twentieths of an inch long, that of the
female one fifth of an inch or more, and the wings expand
nearly or quite two fifths of an inch. These Saw-flies come
out of the ground, at various times, between the twentieth of
May and the middle of June, during which period they pair
and lay their eggs. The females do not fly much, and may be
seen, during most of the day, resting on the leaves ; and, when
touched, they draw up their legs, and fall to the ground. The
males are more active, fly from one rose-bush to another, and
hover around their sluggish partners. The latter, when about
to lay their eggs, turn a little on one side, unsheathe their
saws, and thrust them obliquely into the skin of the leaf, depos-
iting, in each incision thus made, a single egg. The young
begin to hatch in ten days or a fortnight after the eggs are
laid. They may sometimes be found on the leaves as early as
the first of June, but do not usually appear in considerable
numbers till the twentieth of the same month. How long they
are in coming to maturity, I have not particularly observed ;
but the period of their existence in the caterpillar state proba-
bly does not exceed three weeks. They somewhat resemble
the young of the Saw-fly, in form, but are not quite so convex.
They have a small, round, yellowish head, with a black dot on
each side of it, arid are provided with twenty-two short legs.
The body is green above, paler at the sides, and yellowish be-
neath ; and it is soft, and almost transparent, like jelly. The
skin of the back is transversely wrinkled, and covered with
minute elevated points ; and there are two small, triple-pointed
warts on the edge of the first ring, immediately behind the
head. These gelatinous and sluggish creatures eat the upper
surface of the leaf in large irregular patches, leaving the veins
of the skin, beneath, untouched ; and they are sometimes so
28*
330 BHECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
thick that not a leaf on the bushes is spared by them, and the
whole foliage looks as if it had been scorched by fire, and drops
off soon afterwards. They cast their skins several times, leav-
ing them extended and fastened on the leaves ; after the last
moulting, they lose their semi-transparent and greenish color,
and acquire an opaque yellowish hue. They then leave the
rose-bushes, some of them slowly creeping down the stem, and
others rolling up and dropping off, especially when the bushes
are shaken by the wind. Having reached the ground, they
burrow to the depth of an inch or more in the earth, where
each one makes for itself a small oval cell, of grains of earth,
cemented with a little gummy silk. Having finished their
transformations, and turned to flies, within their cells, they
come out of the ground early in August, and lay their eggs for
a second brood of young. These, in turn, perform their ap-
pointed work of destruction in the autumn. They then go
into the ground, make their earthen cells, remain therein
throughout the winter, and appear, in the winged form, in the
following spring and summer.
" During several years past these pernicious vermin have
infested the rose-bushes in the vicinity of Boston, and have
proved so injurious to them as to have excited the attention of
the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, by whom a premium
cf SI 00, for the most successful mode of destroying these in-
sects, was offered, in the summer of 1840. About ten years
ago I observed them in gardens at Cambridge, and then
made myself acquainted with their transformations. At that
time they had not reached Milton, my former place of resi-
dence, and have appeared in that place only within two or
three years. They now seem to be gradually extending in all
directions, and an effectual method for preserving our roses
from their attacks has become very desirable to all persons who
set any value on this beautiful ornament of our gardens and
shrubberies. Showering or syringing the bushes with a liquor,
made by mixing with water the juice expressed from tobacco
by tobacconists, has been recommended ; but some caution is
INSECTS. 331
necessary in making this mixture of a proper strength, for, if too
strong, it is injurious to the plants; and the experiment does
not seem, as yet, to have been conducted with sufficient care to
insure safety and success. Dusting lime over the plants when
wet with dew has been tried, and found of some use ; but this
and all other remedies will probably yield in efficacy to Mr.
Haggerston's mixture of whale-oil soap and water, in the pro-
portion of two pounds of the soap to fifteen gallons of water.
Particular directions, drawn up by Mr. Haggerston himself, for
the preparation and use of this simple and cheap application,
may be found in the ' Boston Courier,' for the 25th of June,
1841, and also in most of our agricultural and horticultural
journals of the same time. The utility of this mixture has
already been repeatedly mentioned in this treatise, and it may
be applied in other cases with advantage. Mr. Haggerston
finds that it effectually destroys many kinds of insects ; and he
particularly mentions plant-lice of various kinds, red spiders,
canker-worms, and a little jumping insect, which has lately
been found quite as hurtful to rose-bushes as the slugs or young
of the Saw-fly, The little insect, alluded to, has been mis-
taken for a species of Thrips, or vine-fretter ; it is, however, a
leaf-hopper, or species of Tettigonia, much smaller than the
leaf-hopper of the grape-vine (Tettigojiia vitis), described in a
former part of this essay, and, like the leaf-hopper of the bean,
entirely of a pale-green color."
"To M. P. Wilder, Esq., President of the Massachusetts Horticultu-
ral Society :
"Sir, — Having discovered a cheap and effectual mode of destroying
the Rose Slug, I wish to become a competitor for the premium offered by
the Massachusetts Horticultural Society. After very many satisfactory
experiments with the following substance, I am convinced it will destroy
the above insect, in either of the states in which it appears on the plant,
as the fly, when it is laying its eggs, or as the slug, when it is commit-
ting its depredations on the foliage.
" WHALE OIL SOAP, dissolved at the rate of two pounds to fifteen gal-
lons of water. I have used it stronger, without injui-y to the plants, but
find the above mixture effectual in the destruction of the insect. As I
332 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
find, from experiments, there is a difference in the strength of the soap,
it will be better for persons using it, to try it diluted as above, and if it
does not kill the insect, add a little more soap, with caution. In corre-
sponding with Messrs. Downer, Austin & Co., on the difference in its ap-
pearance, they say : ' Whale Oil Soap varies much in its relative strength,
the article not being made as soap, but being formed in our process of
bleaching oil. When it is of very sharp taste, and dark appearance, the
alkali predominates ; and when light-colored and flat taste, the grease
predominates.' The former I have generally used, but have tried the
light-colored, and find it equally effectual, but requiring a little more
soap, — say two pounds to thirteen gallons of water.
"Mode of Preparation. — Take whatever quantity of soap you wish to
prepare, and dissolve it in boiling water, about one quart to a pound; in
this way strain it through a fine \vire or hair sieve, which takes out the
dirt, and prevents its stopping the valves of the engine, or the nose of the
syringe; then add cold water, to make it the proper strength; apply it to
the rose-bush with a hand-engine or syringe, with as much force as prac-
ticable, and be sure that every part of the leaves is well saturated with the
liquid. What falls to the ground, in application, will do good in destroy-
ing the worms and enriching the soil, and, from its trifling cost, it can be
used with profusion. A hogshead of 136 gallons costs forty-five cents, —
not quite four mills per gallon. Early in the morning, or in the even-
ing, is the proper time to apply it to the plants.
" As there are many other troublesome and destructive insects the
above preparation will destroy, as effectually as the Rose Slug, it may be
of benefit to the community to know the different kinds upon which I have
tried it with success.
"The Thrips, often called the Vine-Fretter, — a small, light-colored
or spotted fly, quick in motion, which, in some places, are making the
rose-bush nearly as bad hi appearance as the effects of the Slug. Aphis,
or Plant Louse, under the name of Green or Brown Fly ; an insect not
quick in motion, very abundant on, and destructive to, the young shoots
of the Rose, the Peach Tree, and many other plants. The Black Fly, a
very troublesome and destructive insect, that infests the young shoots of the
Cherry and the Snowball Tree. I have never known any positive cure for
the effects of this insect, until this time. Two varieties of insects that are
destructive to, and very much disfigure, Evergreens, the Balsam or Balm
of Gilead Fir in particular, one an Aphis, the other very much like the
Rose Slug. The Jlcarus, or Red Spider, that well-known pest to gar-
deners.
" The disease Mi Ide w, on the Gooseberry, Peach, Grape Vine, &c., &c.,
is checked and entirely destroyed by a weak dressing of the solution.
" The above injects are generally all destroyed by one application, if
INSECTS. 333
properly applied to all parts of the foliage. The eggs of most insects
continue to hatch in rotation, during their season. To keep the plants
perfectly clean, it will be necessary to dress them two or three times.
"I remain, Sir,
" Your most obedient Servant,
"DAVID HAGGERSTON.
"Watertown, June 19th, 1841."
The Rose Bug. — " The Rose-chafer, or Rose-bug-, as it is
more commonly and incorrectly called, is also a diurnal insect.
It is the Melolontha subspinosa of Fabricius, by whom it was first
described, and belongs to the modern genus Macrodactylus of
Latreille. Common as this insect is in the vicinity of Boston,
it is, or was a few years ago, unknown in the northern and
western parts of Massachusetts, in New Hampshire, and in
Maine. It may, therefore, be well to give a brief description
of it. This beetle measures seven twentieths of an inch in
length. Its body is slender, tapers before and behind, and is
entirely covered with very short and close ashen-yellow down.
The thorax is long and narrow, angularly widened in the mid-
dle of each side, which suggested the name subspinosa, or
somewhat spined; the legs are slender, and of a pale-red color;
the joints of the feet are tipped with black, and are very long,
which caused Latreille to call the genus Macrodactylus, that is,
long toe, or long foot. The natural history of the Rose-chafer,
one of the greatest scourges with which our gardens and nur-
series have been afflicted, was for a long time involved in mys-
tery, but is at last fully cleared up. The prevalence of this
insect on the rose, and its annual appearance coinciding with
the blossoming of that flower, have gained for it the popular
name by which it is here known. For some time after they
were first noticed, Rose-bugs appeared to be confined to their
favorite, the blossoms of the rose ; but within thirty years they
have prodigiously increased in number, have attacked at ran-
dom various kinds of plants, in swarms, and have become no-
torious for their extensive and deplorable ravages. The grape-
vine in particular, the cherry, plum, arid apple trees, have
annually suffered by their depredations. Many other fruit
334 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
trees and shrubs, garden vegetables and corn, and even the
trees of the forest and the grass of the fields, have been laid
under contribution by these indiscriminate feeders, by whom
leaves, flowers, and fruits, are alike consumed. The unex-
pected arrival of these insects in swarrns, at their first coming,
and their sudden disappearance, at the close of their career, are
remarkable facts in their history. They come forth from the
ground during the second week in June, or about the time of
the blossoming of the Damask Rose, and remain from thirty to
forty days. At the end of this period the males become ex-
hausted, fall to the ground, and perish, while the females enter
the earth, lay their eggs, return to the surface, and, after linger-
ing a few days, die also. The eggs laid by each female are
about thirty in number, and are deposited from one to four
inches beneath the surface of the soil. They are nearly glob-
ular, whitish, and about one thirtieth of an inch in diameter,
and are hatched twenty days after they are laid. The young
Iarva3 begin to feed on such tender roots as are within their
reach. Like other grubs of the Scarabaeians, when not eating,
they lie upon the side, with the body curved so that the head
and tail are nearly in contact. They move with difficulty on a
level surface, and are continually falling over on one side
or the other. They attain their full size in the autumn, being
then nearly three quarters of an inch long, and about an eighth
of an inch in diameter. They are of a yellowish-white color,
with a tinge of blue towards the hinder extremity, which is
thick and obtuse, or rounded ; a few short hairs are scattered
on the surface of the body ; there are six short legs, namely, a
pair to each of the first three rings behind the head ; and the
latter is covered with a horny shell of a pale rust color. In
October they descend below the reach of frost, and pass the
winter in a torpid state. In the spring they approach towards
the surface, and each one forms for itself a little cell, of an oval
shape, by turning round a great many times, so as to compress
the earth and render the inside of the cavity hard and smooth.
Within this cell the grub is transformed to a pupa, during the
INSECTS. 335
month of May, by casting off its skin, which is pushed down-
wards in folds from the head to the tail. The pupa has some-
what the form of the perfected beetle ; but it is of a yellowish-
white color, and its short stump-like wings, its antennae, and its
legs, are folded upon the breast, and its whole body is enclosed
in a thin film, that wraps each part separately. During the
month of June this filmy skin is rent, the included beetle with-
draws from it its body and its limbs, bursts open its earthen cell,
and digs its way to the surface of the ground. Thus the va-
rious changes, from the egg to the full development of the per-
fected beetle, are completed within the space of one year.
" Such being the metamorphoses and habits of these insects,
it is evident that we cannot attack them in the egg, the grub,
or the pupa state ; the enemy, in these stages, is beyond our
reach, and is subject to the control only of the natural but un-
known means appointed by the Author of Nature to keep the
insect tribes in check. When they have issued from their sub-
terranean retreats, and have congregated upon our vines, trees,
and other vegetable productions, in the complete enjoyment of
their propensities, we must unite our efforts to seize and crush
the invaders. They must indeed be crushed, scalded, or
burned, to deprive them of life, for they are not affected by any
of the applications usually found destructive to other insects.
Experience has proved the utility of gathering them by hand,
or of shaking them or brushing them from the plants into tin
vessels containing a little water. They should be collected
daily during the period of their visitation, and should be com-
mitted to the flames, or killed by scalding water. The late
John Lowell, Esq., states that, in 1823, he discovered, on a
solitary apple-tree, the Rose-bugs ' in vast numbers, such as
could not be described, and would not be believed if they were
described ; or, at least, none but an ocular witness could con-
ceive of their numbers. Destruction by hand was out of the
question,' in this case. He put sheets under the tree, and
shook them down, and burned them. Dr. Green, of Mansfield,
whose investigations have thrown much light on the history of
336 BRECK'S BOOK OF FLOWERS.
this insect, proposes protecting plants with millinet, and says
that in this way only did he succeed in securing his grape-
vines from depredation. His remarks also show the utility of
gathering them. ' Eighty-six of these spoilers,' says he, ' were
known to infest a single rose-bud, and were crushed with one
grasp of the hand.' Suppose, as was probably the case, that
one half of them were females; by this destruction, eight hun-
dred eggs, at least, were prevented from becoming matured.
During the time of their prevalence, Rose-bugs are sometimes
found in immense numbers on the flowers of the common white-
weed, or ox-eye daisy, (Chrysanthemun leucanthemum^) a worth-
less plant, which has come to us from Europe, and has been
suffered to overrun our pastures, and encroach on our mowing
lands. In certain cases it may become expedient rapidly to
mow down the infested white-weed in dry pastures, and con-
sume it, with the sluggish Rose-bugs, on the spot.
" Our insect-eating birds undoubtedly devour many of these
insects, and deserve to be cherished and protected for their ser-
vices. Rose-bugs are also eaten greedily by domesticated fowls ;
and when they become exhausted and fall to the ground, or
when they are about to lay their eggs, they are destroyed by
moles, insects, and other animals, which lie in wait to seize
them. Dr. Green informs us, that a species of dragon-fly, or
devil's needle, devours them. He also says that an insect,
which he calls the enemy of the Cut-worm, probably the larva
of a Carabus or predaceous Ground-beetle, preys on the grubs
of the common Dorbug. In France, the Golden Ground Bee-
tle (Carabus auratus) devours the female Dor, or Chafer, at
the moment when she is about to deposit her eggs. I have
taken one specimen of this fine Ground-Beetle in Massachu-
setts, and we have several other kinds, equally predaceous,
which probably contribute to check the increase of our native
Melolonthians."
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY
BERKELEY
Return to desk from which borrowed.
This book is DUE on the last date stamped below.
9Feb'49BIW
jGT 2519551$
2Sep'56LT
REC'D LD
AUG
25Apr'58lB
' '
JAf 1 ?'6b -12 M
O
$PR 11 1958
13MAY'58AR
REC'D LD
APR 2 9 1958
REC'D
9
LD 21-100m-9,'481B399sl6)476
l'6633RC
YB 48533
667760
rsr
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY •
Live Music Archive
Librivox Free Audio
Metropolitan Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Internet Arcade
Console Living Room
Books to Borrow
Open Library
TV News
Understanding 9/11