Chapter 10

FIG. 61. ALOEVERA.

A. vera(true).*fl., perianth yellow, cylindrical, ¾in. to 1in. long; raceme dense, 6in. to 12in. long; scape strong, 2ft. to 3ft. long, simple or branched.l.ensiform, dense, aggregate, 2in. to 4in. broad, narrowing from the base to apex, pale green; middle about ½in. thick; face channelled above the base; marginal prickles subdistant, deltoid, horny. Stem rarely more than 1ft. or 2ft. 1596. SYNS.A. barbadensis,A. vulgaris. See Fig. 61.A. vulgaris(common). Synonymous withA. vera.A. xanthacantha(yellow-spined). A mere form ofA. mitræformis.A. Zeyheri(Zeyher's). A garden synonym ofA. Bainesii.

A. vulgaris(common). Synonymous withA. vera.

A. xanthacantha(yellow-spined). A mere form ofA. mitræformis.

A. Zeyheri(Zeyher's). A garden synonym ofA. Bainesii.

ALOMIA(froma, not, andloma, a fringe). ORD.Compositæ. Allied toEupatoria. An ornamental half-hardy evergreen plant. Grows freely in sandy loam, and may be propagated by cuttings.

A. ageratoides(ageratum-like).fl.-headswhite, many flowered; involucrum campanulate, imbricate; scales narrow, acute; receptacle naked, convex. July.l.opposite, or upper ones alternate, petiolate, denticulated.h.1½ft. New Spain, 1824.

ALONA(primitive name,Nolana—letters transposed; fromnola, a little bell, in allusion to the shape of the flowers). ORD.Nolanaceæ. A genus of pretty evergreen shrubs closely allied toNolana, but differing principally in having several ovaries from one to six-celled, whereasNolanahas five four-celled ovaries. Leaves fasciculate; stems woody. They require ordinary greenhouse treatment, in a peat and loam compost. Cuttings root freely in sandy loam, with a very gentle bottom heat, in about a fortnight.

A. cœlestis(sky-blue).*fl.pale blue, very large, axillary, solitary; peduncle elongated. July.l.terete, fascicled; plant nearly glabrous.h.2ft. Chili, 1843. This pretty species is an excellent one for growing out-of-doors during summer months.

ALONSOA(in honour of Z. Alonso, formerly Spanish secretary for Santa Fe de Bogota). ORD.Scrophularineæ. A genus of very pretty little half-hardy shrubs, herbaceous perennials, or annuals, with axillary, sub-racemose flowers, which are resupinate, with a sub-rotate five-cleft limb. Leaves opposite, or ternately whorled. They will grow freely in light rich soil; and are readily increased by cuttings in August or March, which should be placed in sandy soil in gentle heat, or by seeds sown in March. The herbaceous species may be treated as outdoor summer annuals, and should be raised in a little heat, and planted out early in May.

A. albiflora(white-flowered).*fl.pure white, with yellow eye, in long terminal spikes.h.1½ft. to 2ft. Mexico, 1877. This is recommended for pot culture, as in the conservatory it will provide a succession of flowers throughout the autumn and winter.A. caulialata(wing-stemmed).fl.scarlet, racemose. June.l.ovate, acute, serrated. Stems and branches quadrangular, winged.h.1ft. Peru, 1823. Half-hardy, herbaceous.A. incisifolia(cut-leaved).*fl.scarlet; peduncles long, alternate, disposed in terminal racemes. May to October.l.opposite, ovate, acute, deeply toothed, or serrate.h.1ft. to 2ft. Chili, 1795. Glabrous greenhouse shrub. SYN.Hemimeris urticifolia.A. linearis(linear-leaved).fl.scarlet, with a dark bottom, like most of the species. May to October.l.opposite, or three in a whorl, linear, entire or remotely denticulated; young leaves fascicled in the axils of the old ones.h.1ft. to 2ft. Peru, 1790. Greenhouse shrub. SYN.Hemimeris coccinea.A. linifolia(flax-leaved).*fl.scarlet.h.1ft. to 1½ft. New Holland. This is an elegant little annual, forming symmetrical, graceful, and very free flowering plants, either for pot or outdoor culture.A. Matthewsii(Matthew's).fl.scarlet, in loose, terminal racemes. July.l.lanceolate, toothed, about 1in. long. Stem slender, quadrangular.h.1ft. Peru, 1871. Greenhouse shrub.A. myrtifolia(myrtle-leaved).fl.scarlet, very large. New and pretty species.A. Warscewiczii(Warscewicz's).*fl.rosy scarlet.h.1½ft. Chili, 1858. This is probably a herbaceous variety ofA. incisifolia, and one of the best annuals.

A. caulialata(wing-stemmed).fl.scarlet, racemose. June.l.ovate, acute, serrated. Stems and branches quadrangular, winged.h.1ft. Peru, 1823. Half-hardy, herbaceous.

A. incisifolia(cut-leaved).*fl.scarlet; peduncles long, alternate, disposed in terminal racemes. May to October.l.opposite, ovate, acute, deeply toothed, or serrate.h.1ft. to 2ft. Chili, 1795. Glabrous greenhouse shrub. SYN.Hemimeris urticifolia.

A. linearis(linear-leaved).fl.scarlet, with a dark bottom, like most of the species. May to October.l.opposite, or three in a whorl, linear, entire or remotely denticulated; young leaves fascicled in the axils of the old ones.h.1ft. to 2ft. Peru, 1790. Greenhouse shrub. SYN.Hemimeris coccinea.

A. linifolia(flax-leaved).*fl.scarlet.h.1ft. to 1½ft. New Holland. This is an elegant little annual, forming symmetrical, graceful, and very free flowering plants, either for pot or outdoor culture.

A. Matthewsii(Matthew's).fl.scarlet, in loose, terminal racemes. July.l.lanceolate, toothed, about 1in. long. Stem slender, quadrangular.h.1ft. Peru, 1871. Greenhouse shrub.

A. myrtifolia(myrtle-leaved).fl.scarlet, very large. New and pretty species.

A. Warscewiczii(Warscewicz's).*fl.rosy scarlet.h.1½ft. Chili, 1858. This is probably a herbaceous variety ofA. incisifolia, and one of the best annuals.

ALOYSIA(in honour of Maria Louisa, mother of Ferdinand VII., King of Spain). Sweet-scented Verbena. ORD.Verbenaceæ. This genus is nearly allied toVerbena, whichseefor generic characters. A greenhouse deciduous shrub, with a very fine perfume and graceful habit. The most satisfactory plan of culture is to obtain well-grown thrifty young plants in spring, and grow them on for the season. As the wood ripens, give less water until they are at rest, when it must be nearly withheld. About the end of January, bring into the light and warmth, and water thoroughly. As soon as the plants break, cut back to three or four eyes; and when the young shoots are about an inch long, transfer into rich sandy soil, using pots a size or two smaller than those they were in before. When the pots are full of roots, transfer to those that are to hold the plants for the season. By this mode of culture, good plants are to be maintained for any length of time. Aloysias form excellent pillar subjects for either a cold greenhouse, or out-of-doors, in which latter situation they thrive remarkably well, but require thorough protection, with straw bands or mats, from November until March, and afterwards at night, until danger from severe frosts has passed. They require no summer training, their young growth being continually cut off for the many purposes of decoration to which they are applied, and to which they are so well adapted. They are easily increased by young cuttings in spring, which should be placed in sandy soil and gentle heat, when they will root in about three weeks.

A. citriodora(lemon-scented).*fl.whitish or lilac, very small, in terminal panicles. August.l.pale green, lanceolate, agreeably scented, arranged in whorls of threes; branches slender. Chili, 1781. SYNS.Lippia citriodora,Verbena triphylla.

ALPINE GARDEN.A very interesting style of gardening, which succeeds best by imitating Nature as closely as possible. The situation may be an open or a sheltered one. In building a Rock or Alpine Garden, it should be so arranged that all aspects are secured—shady and sunny—fully or in degree only. Pockets and crevices of various sizes may be made, and filled with soil suitable for the subjects to be planted therein, each one having a direct connection with the bulk of the soil; and the constructing material should be arranged with a gentle fall, so that moisture drains towards rather than from the roots. Alpine plants, as a rule, flourish better on a properly constructed rockery than if placed in any other position, because thorough drainage is effected, and the long and fine roots can run down in the crevices, where the soil is cool and moist. Although most alpine plants are naturally exposed to the full action of sun and wind, they should be placed out in early autumn, or early spring, so as to become thoroughly established before the approach of scorching summer weather. Failing materials necessary for the construction of a rockery, many alpines are easily grown in the ordinary border, in a naturally or artificially well drained situation. Excavate to the depth of 18in., put in a layer of stones, broken bricks, &c., 6in. deep; fill up with rich fibrous loam and leaf mould, adding sufficient sand to keep the soil porous. When the desired subjects are firmly planted, cover the surface with small gravel or stone chippings, which, while allowing the rain to penetrate the soil, effectually checks evaporation, and keeps it moist and cool, as well as giving the appearance of rockydébris. The effect will be better if the surface is slightly undulated.

ALPINE ROSE.SeeRhododendron ferrugineum.

ALPINIA(in honour of Prosper Alpinus, an Italian botanist). ORD.Zingiberaceæ. A rather large genus of stove herbaceous perennials, with considerable grace and beauty. Flowers disposed in terminal spikes. Leaves lanceolate, smooth, even, entire, sheathed at the base, and having transverse veins. Roots fleshy, branched, having much of the smell and taste of ginger. The soil can hardly be too rich for the successful culture of these plants. A mixture of equal parts loam, peat, leaf mould, or thoroughly rotted hotbed manure, freely mixed with sharp sand or fine charcoal dust, forms an excellent compost. During the growing season, a top dressing of rotten dung, and a frequent application of weak manure water, prove excellent stimulants. They grow rapidly and consume a great deal of food in the production of so much stem and so many leaves. Unless the former is vigorous and of considerable thickness, it will fail to be crowned with spikes of flower. Alpinias require a high temperature, a rich, light soil, abundance of water, and not a little space, to grow them well. Soon after flowering, the plants will assume the yellow leaf, when water may be gradually withheld; but no attempt should be made to dry them off too severely, even after the stems die down. Nor must they be stored when at rest in a low temperature; in fact, they require as much heat to preserve them in health when resting as at any other time. The best time to divide the plants is after the young shoots have made an inch of growth in spring.

A. albo-lineata(white-lined).*l.elliptic lanceolate, pale green, marked with oblique broad bands of white.h.3ft. to 4ft. New Guinea, 1880.A. mutica(beardless).fl.in pairs on a spike-like raceme; calyx white; corolla duplex, consisting of three outer oblong white segments; upper lobe concave and projecting, broad; lip large, bright yellow, veined with crimson; mouth finely crispulate at the edge. Borneo, 1882. A very handsome species.A. nutans(nodding).*fl.pink, sweetly-scented; racemes drooping. May.l.lanceolate, smooth, even, entire.h.13ft. India, 1792. This species looks best in considerable masses, even larger than those shown in the illustration, grown in large pots or tubs, or planted out in borders of tropical houses. It should on no account be severely divided. See Fig. 62.

A. albo-lineata(white-lined).*l.elliptic lanceolate, pale green, marked with oblique broad bands of white.h.3ft. to 4ft. New Guinea, 1880.

A. mutica(beardless).fl.in pairs on a spike-like raceme; calyx white; corolla duplex, consisting of three outer oblong white segments; upper lobe concave and projecting, broad; lip large, bright yellow, veined with crimson; mouth finely crispulate at the edge. Borneo, 1882. A very handsome species.

A. nutans(nodding).*fl.pink, sweetly-scented; racemes drooping. May.l.lanceolate, smooth, even, entire.h.13ft. India, 1792. This species looks best in considerable masses, even larger than those shown in the illustration, grown in large pots or tubs, or planted out in borders of tropical houses. It should on no account be severely divided. See Fig. 62.

FIG. 62. ALPINIANUTANS, showing Form of Individual Flower.

A. vittata(striped).*l.6in. to 8in. long, elliptic lanceolate, tapering to a long fine point, and also narrowed gradually towards the sheathing base, pale green, marked by broad stripes of dark green and creamy white, running off from the midrib in divergent lines, corresponding to the venation. South Sea Islands. See Fig. 63, for which we are indebted to Mr. Bull.

ALSIKE.SeeTrifolium hybridum.

ALSODEIA(fromalsodes, leafy; plants thickly beset with leaves). ORD.Violarieæ. Ornamental evergreen stove shrubs. Flowers small, whitish, racemose; petals equal; racemes axillary and terminal; pedicels bracteate jointed. Leaves usually alternate, feather-nerved; stipules small, deciduous. They thrive best in a mixture of loam and sand, and young cuttings root readily under a bell glass if planted in sand, in heat.

A. latifolia(broad-leaved).*fl.on dense, glabrous racemes.l.ovate, obtusely acuminated.h.6ft. Madagascar, 1823.A. pauciflora(few-flowered).fl.few, somewhat corymbose; pedicels reflexed.l.wedge-shaped, on short footstalks.h.4ft. Madagascar, 1824.

A. latifolia(broad-leaved).*fl.on dense, glabrous racemes.l.ovate, obtusely acuminated.h.6ft. Madagascar, 1823.

A. pauciflora(few-flowered).fl.few, somewhat corymbose; pedicels reflexed.l.wedge-shaped, on short footstalks.h.4ft. Madagascar, 1824.

ALSOPHILA(fromalsos, a grove, andphileo, to love; in reference to the situation which they affect in Nature). ORD.Filices. A magnificent genus of tropical and temperate tree ferns. Sori globose, dorsal, on a vein or in the forking of a vein; receptacle mostly elevated, frequently villous; involucre none. The species of this genus require an abundant supply of water, particularly in summer, and the young fronds must be carefully shaded from solar heat. They thrive well in a peat and loam compost. For general culture,seeFerns.

A. aculeata(prickly).*frondsample, tripinnate.rachisesbrown-stramineous; pinnæ ovate-lanceolate, 1ft. to 1½ft. long; pinnules sessile, ligulate, 3in. to 4in. long, ½in. to ¾in. broad; segments close, ligulate, blunt, denticulate, often less than one line broad;both sides bright green, slightly hairy on the ribs, not scaly.soriminute, medial; texture herbaceous. Tropical America; very common. A very effective stove species. SYN.A. ferox, &c. See Fig. 64.A. armata(armed).*frondsample, tripinnatifid or tripinnate.rachisesstramineous, densely pilose; pinnæ oblong-lanceolate, 1½ft. to 2ft. long; pinnules ligulate-lanceolate, sessile, 3in. to 5in. long, ¾in. to 1in. broad; segments falcate, blunt, one to one and a half lines broad, sub-entire or toothed; both sides densely pilose on the ribs, not scaly.sorisubcostular. Tropical America; extremely abundant. Stove species.

A. armata(armed).*frondsample, tripinnatifid or tripinnate.rachisesstramineous, densely pilose; pinnæ oblong-lanceolate, 1½ft. to 2ft. long; pinnules ligulate-lanceolate, sessile, 3in. to 5in. long, ¾in. to 1in. broad; segments falcate, blunt, one to one and a half lines broad, sub-entire or toothed; both sides densely pilose on the ribs, not scaly.sorisubcostular. Tropical America; extremely abundant. Stove species.

FIG. 63. ALPINIAVITTATA.

A. aspera(rough).*cau.slender, 10ft. to 30ft. high.sti.andrachisesstrongly aculeated; main and partial rachis above strigillose, slightly scaly beneath and on the costa, the rest glabrous, often glossy.frondsbipinnate; pinnules shortly petiolate, oblong; apex acuminated, pinnatifid half or two-thirds of the way down to the costa; lobes oblong-ovate, often acutely serrulate; costa bearing small, deciduous, bullate scales beneath.sorivery deciduous. West Indies, &c. Stove species.A. australis(southern).*sti.with very long, firm, subulate scales, 1½ft. long, and as well as the main rachises, muricato-asperous, stramineous.frondsample, subglaucous beneath, more or less villous on the costæ and costule above, and very minutely bullato-paleaceous beneath, often quite naked, from 6ft. to 30ft. long; primary pinnæ 1½ft. long, 6in. to 10in. wide; pinnules 3in. to 4in. long, ½in. to ¾in. wide, oblong, acuminate, deeply pinnatifid, or towards the base even pinnate; ultimate pinnules or lobes oblong, acute, serrated, subfalcate.soricopious, rather small. New Holland, &c., 1833. A very handsome greenhouse species.A. comosa(hairy). Synonymous withA. Scottiana.A. contaminans(contaminating).*cau.slender, growing from 20ft. to 50ft. high.sti.andrachisespurplish brown, glossy, aculeate.fronds6ft. to 10ft. long, ample, glabrous, deep green above, glaucous beneath; primary pinnæ 2ft. or more in length, oblong-ovate, acuminate; pinnules sessile, 4in. to 5in. long, ½in. to 1in. wide, deeply pinnatifid, linear-oblong, sub-falcate, entire.sorinearer the costule than the margin. Java and Malaya. Stove species. SYN.A. glauca.A. Cooperi(Cooper's).*frondsample, tripinnate.rachisesstramineous, muricated, glabrous beneath; basal scales large, linear, pale, spreading; pinnæ oblong-lanceolate, 1½ft. to 2ft. long; pinnules ligulate, 4in. to 5in. long, ¾in. to 1in. broad, lowest long-stalked; segments ligulate, blunt, toothed, one and a half to two and a half lines broad.sorismall. Queensland, &c. Greenhouse.A. excelsa(tall).*trunkabout 30ft. high.sti.and mainrachisesmuricated.frondsample, dark green above, paler beneath; primary pinnæ 1½ft. to 2ft. long, 6in. to 10in. wide; pinnules numerous, oblong-lanceolate, acuminated, deeply pinnatifid, often quite pinnate; ultimate divisions ¼in. to ¾in. long, oblong, acute or obtuse, falcate, the margins sub-recurved, serrated.soricopious near the costules. Norfolk Island. This rapid-growing and splendid species proves nearly hardy in the neighbourhood of Cornwall; and is a most effective plant for sub-tropical gardening purposes generally. Greenhouse species.A. ferox(fierce). Synonymous withA. aculeata.A. Gardneri(Gardner's). Synonymous withA. paleolata.A. gigantea(gigantic).cau.growing from 20ft. to 40ft. high.sti.asperous;fronds, primary pinnæ 1½ft. to 2ft. and more long, deeply pinnatifid at the apex; pinnules, upper ones sessile, lower ones petiolate, oblong-acuminate, 3in. to 6in. long, five to nine lines wide, deeply pinnatifid; lobes triangular or rounded, serrated.soricopious. India, &c. Stove species. SYN.A. glabra.A. glabra(glabrous). Synonymous withA. gigantea.A. glauca(grey). Synonymous withA. contaminans.A. infesta(troublesome).frondsample, tripinnatifid; pinnæ oblong-lanceolate, 1ft. to 1½ft. long; pinnules ligulate, 3in. long, ½in. to 1in. broad, cut down to a narrow wing; segments ⅛in. broad, ligulate, blunt, nearly entire; texture sub-coriaceous; colour deep green on both sides. Tropical America; widely distributed. Stove species.A. Leichardtiana(Leichardt's).*cau.10ft. to 20ft. high.sti.jointed upon the caudex; main and secondary rachises purple, deciduously powdery, spiny.fronds6ft. to 10ft. long, firm, dark green above, sub-glaucous beneath, naked and glaucous (or nearly so), tripinnate; primary pinnæ 1½ft. to 2ft. long, 8in. wide, oblong-lanceolate, acuminate; pinnules oblong-acuminate, sessile, pinnatifid only at the apex; ultimate divisions linear-oblong, acute, spinulose-serrate.soricopious, close to the costa. Australia, 1867. Greenhouse species. SYNS.A. Macarthurii,A. Moorei.A. lunulata(moon-shaped pinnuled).frondsample, tripinnate.rachisesstramineous, glabrous below, densely muricated; pinnæ oblong-lanceolate, 1½ft. to 2ft. long; pinnules close, ligulate, sessile, 4in. to 5in. long, ¾in. to 1in. broad; segments close, ligulate, falcate, blunt, one line broad, obscurely crenulate.soriminute.h.25ft. Polynesia. Greenhouse species.A. Macarthurii(MacArthur's). Synonymous withA. Leichardtiana.A. Moorei(Moore's). Synonymous withA. Leichardtiana.A. paleolata(scaly).*cau.slender, 10ft. to 20ft. high.frondsample, tripinnatifid.rachisesstramineous, smooth, pubescent below; pinnæ oblong-lanceolate, 1½ft. to 2ft. long; pinnules ligulate, sessile or shortly stalked, 3in. to 4in. long, ½in. to ¾in. broad, deeply cut, the segments blunt and nearly entire; texture sub-coriaceous; colour deep green, both surfaces deeply pilose, the lower scaly on the ribs.sorilarge, medial. Columbia, &c. Stove species. SYN.A. Gardneri.A. procera(tall).sti.aculeated and paleaceous below, with large glossy, dark brown scales.frondsbipinnate, glabrous, pinnatifid at the apex; primary pinnæ 1ft. or more long, the rachis winged above; pinnules 2in. to 3in. long, oblong-acuminate or obtuse, pinnatifid half way down to the costa; lobes short, sub-rotundate, often acute, mostly entire.sorismall on all the lobes, between the costule and the margin. Tropical America. Stove species.A. pruinata(as if hoar-frosted).*sti.densely woolly at the base.frondsglaucous, bi-tripinnate; primary pinnæ petiolate, 12in. to 18in. long, ovate-lanceolate; pinnules 3in. to 4in. long, 1in. wide, petiolulate, from a broad base, oblong-acuminate, deeply pinnatifid, or again pinnate; ultimate divisions ½in. long, lanceolate, very acute, deeply and sharply serrated.sorisolitary. Tropical America, extending to Chili. Stove or greenhouse species.A. radens(rasping).cau.3ft. high, 3in. diameter.sti.2ft. to 3ft. long, clothed with ovate, pale brown scales.fronds6ft. to 8ft. long, lanceolate-ovate, bipinnatisect; primary segments 1½ft. long, elongato-oblong, acuminate; secondary ones 2in. to 3in. long, petiolulate, linear-lanceolate, pinnati-partite; segments oblong, denticulate.soribetween the costule and the margin. Brazil. Stove species.A. Rebeccæ(Rebecca's).*cau.slender, 8ft. high.frondsample, bipinnate; pinnules twenty to thirty on each side, the lower ones stalked, linear, 2in. to 3in. long, more or less inciso-crenate, apex acuminate.soriprincipally in two rows between the midrib and edge. Queensland. Greenhouse species. See Fig. 65, for which we are indebted to Mr. Bull.A. sagittifolia(arrow-leaved).*frondsoblong-deltoid, 4ft. to 6ft. long, bipinnate.rachisesstramineous, muricated; pinnæ lanceolate, ¾ft. to 1ft. long, the lower shorter, deflexed; pinnules sessile, ligulate, crenulate, cordate on both sides at the base, 1in. to 1½in. long, nearly ¼in. broad.sorilarge. Trinidad, 1872. Very handsome and distinct stove species.

A. australis(southern).*sti.with very long, firm, subulate scales, 1½ft. long, and as well as the main rachises, muricato-asperous, stramineous.frondsample, subglaucous beneath, more or less villous on the costæ and costule above, and very minutely bullato-paleaceous beneath, often quite naked, from 6ft. to 30ft. long; primary pinnæ 1½ft. long, 6in. to 10in. wide; pinnules 3in. to 4in. long, ½in. to ¾in. wide, oblong, acuminate, deeply pinnatifid, or towards the base even pinnate; ultimate pinnules or lobes oblong, acute, serrated, subfalcate.soricopious, rather small. New Holland, &c., 1833. A very handsome greenhouse species.

A. comosa(hairy). Synonymous withA. Scottiana.

A. contaminans(contaminating).*cau.slender, growing from 20ft. to 50ft. high.sti.andrachisespurplish brown, glossy, aculeate.fronds6ft. to 10ft. long, ample, glabrous, deep green above, glaucous beneath; primary pinnæ 2ft. or more in length, oblong-ovate, acuminate; pinnules sessile, 4in. to 5in. long, ½in. to 1in. wide, deeply pinnatifid, linear-oblong, sub-falcate, entire.sorinearer the costule than the margin. Java and Malaya. Stove species. SYN.A. glauca.

A. Cooperi(Cooper's).*frondsample, tripinnate.rachisesstramineous, muricated, glabrous beneath; basal scales large, linear, pale, spreading; pinnæ oblong-lanceolate, 1½ft. to 2ft. long; pinnules ligulate, 4in. to 5in. long, ¾in. to 1in. broad, lowest long-stalked; segments ligulate, blunt, toothed, one and a half to two and a half lines broad.sorismall. Queensland, &c. Greenhouse.

A. excelsa(tall).*trunkabout 30ft. high.sti.and mainrachisesmuricated.frondsample, dark green above, paler beneath; primary pinnæ 1½ft. to 2ft. long, 6in. to 10in. wide; pinnules numerous, oblong-lanceolate, acuminated, deeply pinnatifid, often quite pinnate; ultimate divisions ¼in. to ¾in. long, oblong, acute or obtuse, falcate, the margins sub-recurved, serrated.soricopious near the costules. Norfolk Island. This rapid-growing and splendid species proves nearly hardy in the neighbourhood of Cornwall; and is a most effective plant for sub-tropical gardening purposes generally. Greenhouse species.

A. ferox(fierce). Synonymous withA. aculeata.

A. Gardneri(Gardner's). Synonymous withA. paleolata.

A. gigantea(gigantic).cau.growing from 20ft. to 40ft. high.sti.asperous;fronds, primary pinnæ 1½ft. to 2ft. and more long, deeply pinnatifid at the apex; pinnules, upper ones sessile, lower ones petiolate, oblong-acuminate, 3in. to 6in. long, five to nine lines wide, deeply pinnatifid; lobes triangular or rounded, serrated.soricopious. India, &c. Stove species. SYN.A. glabra.

A. glabra(glabrous). Synonymous withA. gigantea.

A. glauca(grey). Synonymous withA. contaminans.

A. infesta(troublesome).frondsample, tripinnatifid; pinnæ oblong-lanceolate, 1ft. to 1½ft. long; pinnules ligulate, 3in. long, ½in. to 1in. broad, cut down to a narrow wing; segments ⅛in. broad, ligulate, blunt, nearly entire; texture sub-coriaceous; colour deep green on both sides. Tropical America; widely distributed. Stove species.

A. Leichardtiana(Leichardt's).*cau.10ft. to 20ft. high.sti.jointed upon the caudex; main and secondary rachises purple, deciduously powdery, spiny.fronds6ft. to 10ft. long, firm, dark green above, sub-glaucous beneath, naked and glaucous (or nearly so), tripinnate; primary pinnæ 1½ft. to 2ft. long, 8in. wide, oblong-lanceolate, acuminate; pinnules oblong-acuminate, sessile, pinnatifid only at the apex; ultimate divisions linear-oblong, acute, spinulose-serrate.soricopious, close to the costa. Australia, 1867. Greenhouse species. SYNS.A. Macarthurii,A. Moorei.

A. lunulata(moon-shaped pinnuled).frondsample, tripinnate.rachisesstramineous, glabrous below, densely muricated; pinnæ oblong-lanceolate, 1½ft. to 2ft. long; pinnules close, ligulate, sessile, 4in. to 5in. long, ¾in. to 1in. broad; segments close, ligulate, falcate, blunt, one line broad, obscurely crenulate.soriminute.h.25ft. Polynesia. Greenhouse species.

A. Macarthurii(MacArthur's). Synonymous withA. Leichardtiana.

A. Moorei(Moore's). Synonymous withA. Leichardtiana.

A. paleolata(scaly).*cau.slender, 10ft. to 20ft. high.frondsample, tripinnatifid.rachisesstramineous, smooth, pubescent below; pinnæ oblong-lanceolate, 1½ft. to 2ft. long; pinnules ligulate, sessile or shortly stalked, 3in. to 4in. long, ½in. to ¾in. broad, deeply cut, the segments blunt and nearly entire; texture sub-coriaceous; colour deep green, both surfaces deeply pilose, the lower scaly on the ribs.sorilarge, medial. Columbia, &c. Stove species. SYN.A. Gardneri.

A. procera(tall).sti.aculeated and paleaceous below, with large glossy, dark brown scales.frondsbipinnate, glabrous, pinnatifid at the apex; primary pinnæ 1ft. or more long, the rachis winged above; pinnules 2in. to 3in. long, oblong-acuminate or obtuse, pinnatifid half way down to the costa; lobes short, sub-rotundate, often acute, mostly entire.sorismall on all the lobes, between the costule and the margin. Tropical America. Stove species.

A. pruinata(as if hoar-frosted).*sti.densely woolly at the base.frondsglaucous, bi-tripinnate; primary pinnæ petiolate, 12in. to 18in. long, ovate-lanceolate; pinnules 3in. to 4in. long, 1in. wide, petiolulate, from a broad base, oblong-acuminate, deeply pinnatifid, or again pinnate; ultimate divisions ½in. long, lanceolate, very acute, deeply and sharply serrated.sorisolitary. Tropical America, extending to Chili. Stove or greenhouse species.

A. radens(rasping).cau.3ft. high, 3in. diameter.sti.2ft. to 3ft. long, clothed with ovate, pale brown scales.fronds6ft. to 8ft. long, lanceolate-ovate, bipinnatisect; primary segments 1½ft. long, elongato-oblong, acuminate; secondary ones 2in. to 3in. long, petiolulate, linear-lanceolate, pinnati-partite; segments oblong, denticulate.soribetween the costule and the margin. Brazil. Stove species.

A. Rebeccæ(Rebecca's).*cau.slender, 8ft. high.frondsample, bipinnate; pinnules twenty to thirty on each side, the lower ones stalked, linear, 2in. to 3in. long, more or less inciso-crenate, apex acuminate.soriprincipally in two rows between the midrib and edge. Queensland. Greenhouse species. See Fig. 65, for which we are indebted to Mr. Bull.

A. sagittifolia(arrow-leaved).*frondsoblong-deltoid, 4ft. to 6ft. long, bipinnate.rachisesstramineous, muricated; pinnæ lanceolate, ¾ft. to 1ft. long, the lower shorter, deflexed; pinnules sessile, ligulate, crenulate, cordate on both sides at the base, 1in. to 1½in. long, nearly ¼in. broad.sorilarge. Trinidad, 1872. Very handsome and distinct stove species.

FIG. 64. ALSOPHILAACULEATA.

A. Scottiana(Scott's).*frondsample, tripinnatifid.rachisescastaneous, naked and smooth beneath; pinnæ oblong-lanceolate, 1½ft. to 2ft. long; pinnules sessile, 3in. to 4in. long, about ½in. broad, ligulate, cut down to a narrow wing on the rachis; segments ligulate, blunt, dentate, sub-falcate, not ⅛in. broad.sorisub-costular. Sikkim, 1872. Greenhouse species. SYN.A. comosa.A. Tænitis(Tænitis-like).*fronds3ft. to 6ft. long, bipinnate; pinnules distant, 3in. to 5in. long, lanceolate, acuminate, glabrous, sub-entire, petioled; petiole articulated on the rachis.soriin a single series, equidistant between the costa and the margin, mixed with long, copious hairs. Brazil. An elegant stove species.A. villosa(villous).*cau.6ft. to 12ft. high.sti.1ft. or more long, tubercular, densely clothed at the base with ferruginous scales.frondsfrom 6ft. to 8ft. long, bi- or sub-tripinnate, broadly lanceolate in outline; pinnules 1in. to 3in. long, oblong-lanceolate, obtusely acuminate, deeply pinnatifid; lobes oblong, obtuse, entire or coarsely serrated.soricopious. Tropical America. A very beautiful stove species.

A. Tænitis(Tænitis-like).*fronds3ft. to 6ft. long, bipinnate; pinnules distant, 3in. to 5in. long, lanceolate, acuminate, glabrous, sub-entire, petioled; petiole articulated on the rachis.soriin a single series, equidistant between the costa and the margin, mixed with long, copious hairs. Brazil. An elegant stove species.

A. villosa(villous).*cau.6ft. to 12ft. high.sti.1ft. or more long, tubercular, densely clothed at the base with ferruginous scales.frondsfrom 6ft. to 8ft. long, bi- or sub-tripinnate, broadly lanceolate in outline; pinnules 1in. to 3in. long, oblong-lanceolate, obtusely acuminate, deeply pinnatifid; lobes oblong, obtuse, entire or coarsely serrated.soricopious. Tropical America. A very beautiful stove species.

ALSTONIA(in honour of Dr. Alston, once Professor of Botany at Edinburgh). ORD.Apocynaceæ. Usually tall, lactescent, or milk-bearing stove evergreen shrubs or trees, with small white flowers, which are disposed in terminal cymes. Leaves entire, opposite or often whorled. Of easy culture, thriving best in a mixture of peat, loam, and sand. Cuttings root readily in sand, in heat. Besides the one mentioned, there are eleven other species.

A. scholaris(school).fl., corolla salver-shaped, white; cymes on short peduncles. March to May.l.five to seven in a whorl, obovate-oblong, obtuse, ribbed; upper surface glossy, under white, and having the veins approximating the margin.h.8ft. India, 1803. SYN.Echites scholaris.

FIG. 65. ALSOPHILAREBECCæ.

ALSTRÖMERIA(in honour of Baron Alströmer, a Swedish botanist and friend of Linnæus). ORD.Amaryllidaceæ. Tall handsome hardy or half-hardy tuberous rooted plants, with leafy stems and terminal umbels of richly-coloured flowers; perianth regular, six-parted, subcampanulate; inner segments narrower, two of which are somewhat tubulose at the base; stamens included within, and inserted with perianth; stigma trifid. Leaves linear, lanceolate, or ovate, and resupinate, or inverted in position by the twisting of the petiole. Cultivation: Few plants need less attention to grow them successfully, either in pots or planted out. The best position for those kinds which succeed outside is a deep and dry, sloping, sheltered border, in a compost of two-parts peat and leaf soil, and one loam with some sharp sand. Water freely if severe drought sets in; a surface covering of common moss, or cut fern in winter, will prove an advantage. They are very effective in masses. Propagation: They may be increased by seed or root division. Sow the former when ripe, or in early spring, thinly in pans, pots, or boxes, and place in a cool house or frame, so that they will receive some fostering in their early stages. The seedlings should be pricked out singly, when large enough to handle, and grown on till well established under glass. A mixture of peat, leaf mould, and sandy loam, is the best compost in which to sow the seeds and grow the young plants. When sufficiently established, they may be placed in a warm sheltered spot outside, and about 1ft. apart. The fasciculated masses of fleshy roots are readily separated into as many pieces as there are crowns; this operation may be performed during September or October, or February and March; but it must be done carefully. Except for the sake of increase, the less they are disturbed the better. They are excellent subjects for pot culture (some can only be managed thus, unless planted out in a house), and may be potted as early in the autumn as possible, in 8in., 10in., or 12in. pots. Thorough drainage is essential; arrange the crocks carefully, and place a layer of thin turfy loam over them. A compost of equal parts turfy loam, leaf mold, and fibrous peat, with an abundance of sand, will suit them admirably. Water sparingly at first, but when root-action is fully resumed, they must never be allowed to get dry. Support the stems by staking when they require it, and just previous to flowering, top-dress with some rotten manure and leaf soil. Occasional syringings will be necessary to keep down red spider, especially if the atmosphere is very dry. As the plants finish flowering, and the leaves fade, gradually diminish the supply of water until the stems are quite down, when they may be placed somewhere out of the way, free from frost, for the winter, but not kept dry enough to make them shrivel. In repotting, as much ofthe old soil as is practicable should be removed, without seriously disturbing the roots, and the plants shifted into larger or the same sized pots, according to their condition. Alströmerias were at one time much more largely grown than they are at present, and the genus was represented in nearly every garden.

FIG. 66. ALSTRöMERIAAURANTIACA, showing Habit and Flower.

A. aurantiaca(golden).*fl.orange; two upper perianth segments lanceolate, streaked with red; arranged in a five to six stalked umbel, bearing ten to fifteen blooms. Summer and autumn.l.numerous, linear-elliptical, obtuse, glaucous, twisted and turned back at the base, about 4½in. long.h.3ft. to 4ft. Chili, 1831. A variable but very showy species, quite hardy. See Fig. 66.A. caryophyllæa(clove-like scent).*fl.scarlet; very fragrant, perianth two-lipped; peduncles longer than the involucre. February and March.l.spathulate-oblong. Stem erect.h.8in. to 12in. Brazil, 1776. This stove species requires perfect rest in winter. SYN.A. Ligtu.

A. caryophyllæa(clove-like scent).*fl.scarlet; very fragrant, perianth two-lipped; peduncles longer than the involucre. February and March.l.spathulate-oblong. Stem erect.h.8in. to 12in. Brazil, 1776. This stove species requires perfect rest in winter. SYN.A. Ligtu.

FIG. 67. FLOWEROFALSTRöMERIAPELEGRINA.

A. chilensis(Chilian).*fl.blood-red or pink, large, the two upper interior petals longer and narrower, variegated with yellow lines; in pairs on a five to six stalked umbel. Summer and autumn.l.scattered, obovate, spathulate; upper ones lanceolate, twisted at the base, minutely fringed on the edges, glaucescent.h.2ft. to 3ft. Chili, 1849. Hardy. There are many varieties of this species, varying in colour from a rosy white to a deep orange or red.A. densiflora(thickly-flowered).*fl., perianth scarlet, dotted with black spots inside towards the base; umbels many-flowered, dense; pedicels pubescent, rarely bracteated.l.alternate, ovate, shortly acuminate, pubescent underneath. Stem climbing, glabrous. Peru, 1865. Tender species.A. Flos Martini(St. Martin's flower). Synonymous withA. pulchra.A. Hookeri(Hooker's). Synonymous withA. Simsii.A. Ligtu(Ligtu). Synonymous withA. caryophyllæa.A. Pelegrina(the native name).*fl.white, or pale yellow, striped with rose, and yellow spot on each segment; pedicels one-flowered, on a six or more stalked umbel. Summer.l.lanceolate, twisted at the base.h.1ft. Chili, 1754. Rather tender. See Fig. 67.A. p. alba(white).* Lily of the Incas.fl.white. Perhaps this is the most chaste of all the Alströmerias, and more tender than many others; it should have a specially warm spot, or the protection of glass. 1877.A. peruviana(Peruvian). Synonymous withA. versicolor.A. psittacina(parrot-like).*fl.bright crimson at the base, greenish upwards, spotted with purple; upper perianth segments slightly hooded, hence the specific name; umbels many-flowered; peduncles angular. September.l.oblong-lanceolate, acute, twisted at the base. Stem erect, spotted.h.6ft. Mexico, 1829. Hardy.A. p. Erembaulti(Erembault's).fl.white, spotted with purple. August.h.2ft. 1833. A beautiful but rather tender hybrid.A. pulchella(pretty). Synonymous withA. Simsii.A. pulchra(fair).* St. Martin's Flower.fl.in umbels of from four to eight in each; the lower perianth segments purplish outside, and edges of a sulphur-white; the upper part of the upper segments of a fine yellow, dotted with deep red spots, the lower part of a flesh colour; pedicels twisted.l.linear lanceolate. Stem erect.h.1ft. Chili, 1822. A beautiful species, but one requiring protection. SYNS.A. Flos Martini,A. tricolor.A. rosea(rosy). A synonym ofA. Simsii.A. Simsii(Sims's).*fl.brilliant yellow, with red streaks, very showy; umbels many-flowered; peduncles two-flowered. June.l.spathulate, ciliated. Stem weak.h.3ft. Chili, 1822. Tender species. SYNS.A. Hookeri,A. pulchella,A. rosea.A. tricolor(three-coloured). A synonym ofA. pulchra.

A. densiflora(thickly-flowered).*fl., perianth scarlet, dotted with black spots inside towards the base; umbels many-flowered, dense; pedicels pubescent, rarely bracteated.l.alternate, ovate, shortly acuminate, pubescent underneath. Stem climbing, glabrous. Peru, 1865. Tender species.

A. Flos Martini(St. Martin's flower). Synonymous withA. pulchra.

A. Hookeri(Hooker's). Synonymous withA. Simsii.

A. Ligtu(Ligtu). Synonymous withA. caryophyllæa.

A. Pelegrina(the native name).*fl.white, or pale yellow, striped with rose, and yellow spot on each segment; pedicels one-flowered, on a six or more stalked umbel. Summer.l.lanceolate, twisted at the base.h.1ft. Chili, 1754. Rather tender. See Fig. 67.

A. p. alba(white).* Lily of the Incas.fl.white. Perhaps this is the most chaste of all the Alströmerias, and more tender than many others; it should have a specially warm spot, or the protection of glass. 1877.

A. peruviana(Peruvian). Synonymous withA. versicolor.

A. psittacina(parrot-like).*fl.bright crimson at the base, greenish upwards, spotted with purple; upper perianth segments slightly hooded, hence the specific name; umbels many-flowered; peduncles angular. September.l.oblong-lanceolate, acute, twisted at the base. Stem erect, spotted.h.6ft. Mexico, 1829. Hardy.

A. p. Erembaulti(Erembault's).fl.white, spotted with purple. August.h.2ft. 1833. A beautiful but rather tender hybrid.

A. pulchella(pretty). Synonymous withA. Simsii.

A. pulchra(fair).* St. Martin's Flower.fl.in umbels of from four to eight in each; the lower perianth segments purplish outside, and edges of a sulphur-white; the upper part of the upper segments of a fine yellow, dotted with deep red spots, the lower part of a flesh colour; pedicels twisted.l.linear lanceolate. Stem erect.h.1ft. Chili, 1822. A beautiful species, but one requiring protection. SYNS.A. Flos Martini,A. tricolor.

A. rosea(rosy). A synonym ofA. Simsii.

A. Simsii(Sims's).*fl.brilliant yellow, with red streaks, very showy; umbels many-flowered; peduncles two-flowered. June.l.spathulate, ciliated. Stem weak.h.3ft. Chili, 1822. Tender species. SYNS.A. Hookeri,A. pulchella,A. rosea.

A. tricolor(three-coloured). A synonym ofA. pulchra.

FIG. 68. ALSTRöMERIAVERSICOLOR, showing Habit and Flower.

A. versicolor(various coloured).*fl.yellow, with purple marks; lowest segment the broadest; umbel of usually three shortly-stalked blooms, very floriferous. Late summer.l.linear-lanceolate, sessile, scattered.h.2ft. to 4ft. Peru, 1831. This is a very robust species, with several beautiful varieties, which are both easily obtained and very cheap. SYN.A. peruviana. See Fig. 68.A. v. niveo-marginata(snowy-margined).*fl.rose, crimson and white, with green tips and black spots.l.lanceolate, stalked, white-edged. 1875. A charming but scarce variety.

A. v. niveo-marginata(snowy-margined).*fl.rose, crimson and white, with green tips and black spots.l.lanceolate, stalked, white-edged. 1875. A charming but scarce variety.

ALTERNANTHERA(in allusion to the anthers being alternately barren). ORD.Amaranthaceæ. Well known ornamental-leaved half-hardy plants, with inconspicuous flowers in axillary heads. Some of the undermentioned species and varieties belong, technically speaking, toTelanthera, in which genus the five stamens are inseparate below, and alternate with as many sterile filaments. They are so universally known in gardening under the present generic name, that we have here included them for convenience' sake. Where Alternantheras are used in large quantities (and if they are to be used effectively, a considerable number must be provided), their economical propagation becomes a matter of importance. A good colour can only be secured by growing them insome house or pit in the full light and warmth of the sun; for, unless so grown, green or badly coloured plants will be the result. The best and quickest way of producing this class of plants in large quantities, is to make up a special hotbed for them about the end of March or beginning of April. If a pit be used, it should be filled up within 6in. of the glass with leaves and manure, or any other material that will produce a steady bottom heat of 80deg. or 85deg., and will last for three weeks or so at that point; which, at this season, will be an easy matter. When the heat has become regular and steady, about 4in. or 5in. of light, rich, sandy soil should be placed all over the surface, adding, at the same time, a sprinkling of silver sand on the top, and pressing it moderately firm with a flat board. The cuttings may now be prepared and dibbled in, 1in. apart each way. If kept close, moist, and shaded from bright sunshine, in a few days they will be forming roots, and so soon as that takes place the shading should be discontinued, and the ventilation gradually increased until they are finally hardened off and planted out. If carefully lifted, and placed in trays or baskets, with a rhubarb leaf over them, they may be taken any distance, and planted without flagging; with this advantage—that the plants being in good colour, the beds are effective at once. April is early enough to commence striking them, and these will be fit to plant out by the middle of June. The several species quoted in various dictionaries hitherto are unknown in English gardens.

A. amabilis(lovely).*l.elliptic, acuminate, greenish in some stages, with the principal ribs stained with red, but under free growth becoming almost entirely suffused with rose colour, mixed with orange, the midribs continuing to be of a deep red hue. Brazil, 1868.A. a. amœna(charming).*l.small, spathulate, orange red and purple in colour, which is shaded with deep green and bronze. Brazil, 1865. A most elegant little plant, with a spreading habit.A. a. tricolor(three-coloured).*l.broadly ovate, glabrous, dark green at the edge, and have a centre of vivid rose, traversed by purple veins, an irregular band of orange yellow intervening between the centre and margin. Brazil, 1862.A. Bettzichiana(Bettzich's).l.olive and red. Brazil, 1862.A. B. spathulata(spathulate-leaved).l.spathulate, but more elongated than the others; the principal colours are reddish pink and light brown; these are shaded with bronze and green. Brazil, 1865. A rather tall species.A. ficoidea(fig-like).*l.variegated with green, rose, and red. India, 1865.A. paronychioides(Paronychia-like).*l.narrow, spathulate, ground colour deep orange red, beautifully shaded with olive green. Dense and compact grower, forming a little clump about 4in. high.A. p. magnifica(magnificent).* A very fine variety, with a much higher colour than the type.A. p. major(greater).*l.bronze, with rich orange tips; very effective.A. p. m. aurea(greater-golden).*l.bright golden yellow, which colour they retain all through the season.A. versicolor(various-colour).*l.medium sized, ovate, bright rosy pink and crimson, shaded with bronzy green, branching freely, and making a compact and handsome plant. Brazil, 1865.

A. a. amœna(charming).*l.small, spathulate, orange red and purple in colour, which is shaded with deep green and bronze. Brazil, 1865. A most elegant little plant, with a spreading habit.

A. a. tricolor(three-coloured).*l.broadly ovate, glabrous, dark green at the edge, and have a centre of vivid rose, traversed by purple veins, an irregular band of orange yellow intervening between the centre and margin. Brazil, 1862.

A. Bettzichiana(Bettzich's).l.olive and red. Brazil, 1862.

A. B. spathulata(spathulate-leaved).l.spathulate, but more elongated than the others; the principal colours are reddish pink and light brown; these are shaded with bronze and green. Brazil, 1865. A rather tall species.

A. ficoidea(fig-like).*l.variegated with green, rose, and red. India, 1865.

A. paronychioides(Paronychia-like).*l.narrow, spathulate, ground colour deep orange red, beautifully shaded with olive green. Dense and compact grower, forming a little clump about 4in. high.

A. p. magnifica(magnificent).* A very fine variety, with a much higher colour than the type.

A. p. major(greater).*l.bronze, with rich orange tips; very effective.

A. p. m. aurea(greater-golden).*l.bright golden yellow, which colour they retain all through the season.

A. versicolor(various-colour).*l.medium sized, ovate, bright rosy pink and crimson, shaded with bronzy green, branching freely, and making a compact and handsome plant. Brazil, 1865.

ALTERNATE.Placed on opposite sides of an axis on a different line, as in alternate leaves.

ALTHÆA(fromaltheo, to cure; in reference to the medicinal qualities of some of the species). Marsh Mallow. ORD.Malvaceæ. Hardy biennials or perennials, closely allied toMalva. Outer calyx six to nine-cleft, inner one five-cleft. Most species belonging to this genus are worthy of cultivation, particularly in woods, coppices, and shrubberies; they will thrive in almost any kind of soil. They may be either increased by dividing the plants at the roots, or by seeds; the biennial species must be raised from seed every year, which may be sown in spring where they are intended to remain, or in pans placed in a cold frame, from which the young plants may be removed when large enough.

A. cannabina(Hemp-leaved).*fl.rose-coloured; peduncles axillary, many-flowered, loose, longer than the leaves. June.l.pubescent, lower ones palmately-parted, upper ones three-parted; lobes narrow, and grossly toothed.h.5ft. to 6ft. South France, 1597. Perennial.A. caribæa(Caribean).*fl.rose coloured, with a yellow base, solitary, almost sessile. March.l.cordate, roundish, lobed, crenate-serrated. Stem straight, hispid.h.3ft. Caribbee Islands, 1816. Biennial.A. ficifolia(fig-leaved). Antwerp Hollyhock.fl.generally yellow or orange coloured, in terminal spikes, large, single or double. June.l.divided beyond the middle into seven lobes; lobes oblong, obtuse, irregularly toothed.h.6ft. Siberia, 1597. Biennial.A. flexuosa(zigzag).*fl.scarlet, axillary, solitary, stalked; petals obcordate. June.l.cordate, somewhat seven-lobed, obtuse, on long footstalks.h.2ft. to 3ft. North India, 1803. Perennial.A. frutex(shrubby). Synonymous withHibiscus syriacus.A. narbonensis(Narbonne).*fl.pale red; peduncles many-flowered, loose, longer than the leaves. August.l.pubescent, lower ones five or seven-lobed, upper ones three-lobed.h.3ft. to 6ft. France, 1780. Perennial.

A. caribæa(Caribean).*fl.rose coloured, with a yellow base, solitary, almost sessile. March.l.cordate, roundish, lobed, crenate-serrated. Stem straight, hispid.h.3ft. Caribbee Islands, 1816. Biennial.

A. ficifolia(fig-leaved). Antwerp Hollyhock.fl.generally yellow or orange coloured, in terminal spikes, large, single or double. June.l.divided beyond the middle into seven lobes; lobes oblong, obtuse, irregularly toothed.h.6ft. Siberia, 1597. Biennial.

A. flexuosa(zigzag).*fl.scarlet, axillary, solitary, stalked; petals obcordate. June.l.cordate, somewhat seven-lobed, obtuse, on long footstalks.h.2ft. to 3ft. North India, 1803. Perennial.

A. frutex(shrubby). Synonymous withHibiscus syriacus.

A. narbonensis(Narbonne).*fl.pale red; peduncles many-flowered, loose, longer than the leaves. August.l.pubescent, lower ones five or seven-lobed, upper ones three-lobed.h.3ft. to 6ft. France, 1780. Perennial.

FIG. 69. FLOWERANDBUDSOFALTHÆAOFFICINALIS.

A. officinalis(officinal). Common Marsh Mallow.fl.of a delicate, uniform blush colour; peduncles axillary, many-flowered, much shorter than the leaves. July.l.clothed with soft, white tomentum on both surfaces, cordate or ovate, toothed, undivided, or somewhat five-lobed.h.3ft. to 4ft. Marshes, Britain. Perennial. See Fig. 69.A. rosea(rose).* Hollyhock.fl.rose-coloured, large, axillary, sessile, somewhat spiked at the top. July.l.cordate, with five or seven angles, crenated, rough. Stem straight, hairy.h.8ft. China, 1573. For special culture and varieties,seeHollyhock.A. striata(streaked).fl.white, 2½in. in diameter, solitary, on short pedicels; calyx striped. July.l.cordate, bluntly three-lobed, crenated. Stem puberulous, and somewhat scabrous.h.5ft. Biennial.

A. rosea(rose).* Hollyhock.fl.rose-coloured, large, axillary, sessile, somewhat spiked at the top. July.l.cordate, with five or seven angles, crenated, rough. Stem straight, hairy.h.8ft. China, 1573. For special culture and varieties,seeHollyhock.

A. striata(streaked).fl.white, 2½in. in diameter, solitary, on short pedicels; calyx striped. July.l.cordate, bluntly three-lobed, crenated. Stem puberulous, and somewhat scabrous.h.5ft. Biennial.

ALUMINOUS.Pertaining to, or containing alum, or alumina; as Aluminous soils.

ALUM-ROOT.SeeHeuchera.

ALYSSUM(froma, not, andlyssa, rage; in reference to a fable that the plant allayed anger). Madwort. IncludingPsilonema,Ptilotrichum,Schivereckia. ORD.Cruciferæ. Annuals or dwarf, branching, shrubby perennials, often clothed with hoary, stellate hairs. Flowers small, cruciform, white or yellow. Leaves distant, or the radical ones tufted, usually entire. Several of the species are very much alike. They are excellent plants for the rockery, or for the front of borders, growing freely in common but well-drained garden soil. They may be increased by cuttings, by division of the roots, or by seed. The cuttings should be made from young shoots, 2in. to 3in. in length, inserted in sandy loam, early in the season, in ashady place. Seed may be raised outside, or in a frame in pans in sandy soil, most of them germinating in two or three weeks.

A. alpestre(alpine).*fl.yellow; raceme simple. June.l.obovate, hoary. Stem rather shrubby at the base, diffuse, greyish.h.3in. South Europe, 1777. Perennial. A very neat little tufted species.A. argenteum(silvery),A. Bertolonii(Bertoloni's), andA. murale(wall), are larger growing species allied to the above, but of less cultural merit.

FIG. 70. ALYSSUMSAXATILE.

A. a. obtusifolium(obtuse-leaved).fl.yellow, corymbose. June.l.obovate-spathulate, blunt, silvery on the under surface.h.3in. Tauria, 1828. A rare alpine.

FIG. 71. ALYSSUMSAXATILEVARIEGATUM, showing Flower and Habit.

A. atlanticum(Atlantic).fl.yellow; raceme simple. June.l.lanceolate, hoary, and pilose. Stems shrubby at the base, erect.h.6in. to 1ft. S. Europe, 1820.A. Marschallianumis intermediate betweenA. alpestreandA. a. obtusifolium; but is seldom met with under cultivation.A. gemonense(German).*fl.yellow, in close corymbs. April to June.l.lanceolate, entire, greyish-velvety from stellate down. Stem shrubby at the base.h.1ft. Italy, 1710. Closely allied toA. saxatile, but not so hardy; it is very desirable for rockeries.A. macrocarpum(large-fruited).fl.white, racemose. June.l.oblong, blunt, silvery. Stem shrubby, branched, somewhat spiny.h.8in. South of France, 1828.A. spinosa(thorny), andA. halimifolia(purslane-leaved), are very like this species.A. dasycarpum(thick-fruited) is an annual with yellow flowers.A. maritimum.SeeKœniga.A. montanum(mountain).fl.yellow, sweet-scented; raceme simple. May to July.l.somewhat hoary; lower ones obovate; upper ones oblong. Stems rather herbaceous, diffuse, pubescent.h.2in. or 3in. Europe, 1713. A distinct and charming species for the rockery, forming compact tufts of slightly glaucous green.A. cuneifolium(wedge-leaved),A. diffusum(diffuse), andA. Wulfenianum(Wulfenius') come close to this species, the latter being the most desirable.A. olympicum(Olympian).fl.deep yellow, small, in roundish corymbose heads. Summer.l.spathulate, sessile, very small, greyish.h.2in. to 3in. Northern Greece.A. orientale(Oriental).*fl.yellow, corymbose. May.l.lanceolate, repandly-toothed, waved, downy. Stems suffruticose at the base.h.1ft. Crete, 1820. There is a variety with variegated leaves.A. saxatile(rock).*fl.yellow, in close corymbose heads. April.l.lanceolate, entire, clothed with hoary tomentum. Stems shrubby at the base.h.1ft. Eastern Europe, 1710. A very common and showy spring plant. See Fig. 70.

A. gemonense(German).*fl.yellow, in close corymbs. April to June.l.lanceolate, entire, greyish-velvety from stellate down. Stem shrubby at the base.h.1ft. Italy, 1710. Closely allied toA. saxatile, but not so hardy; it is very desirable for rockeries.

A. macrocarpum(large-fruited).fl.white, racemose. June.l.oblong, blunt, silvery. Stem shrubby, branched, somewhat spiny.h.8in. South of France, 1828.A. spinosa(thorny), andA. halimifolia(purslane-leaved), are very like this species.A. dasycarpum(thick-fruited) is an annual with yellow flowers.

A. maritimum.SeeKœniga.

A. montanum(mountain).fl.yellow, sweet-scented; raceme simple. May to July.l.somewhat hoary; lower ones obovate; upper ones oblong. Stems rather herbaceous, diffuse, pubescent.h.2in. or 3in. Europe, 1713. A distinct and charming species for the rockery, forming compact tufts of slightly glaucous green.A. cuneifolium(wedge-leaved),A. diffusum(diffuse), andA. Wulfenianum(Wulfenius') come close to this species, the latter being the most desirable.

A. olympicum(Olympian).fl.deep yellow, small, in roundish corymbose heads. Summer.l.spathulate, sessile, very small, greyish.h.2in. to 3in. Northern Greece.

A. orientale(Oriental).*fl.yellow, corymbose. May.l.lanceolate, repandly-toothed, waved, downy. Stems suffruticose at the base.h.1ft. Crete, 1820. There is a variety with variegated leaves.

A. saxatile(rock).*fl.yellow, in close corymbose heads. April.l.lanceolate, entire, clothed with hoary tomentum. Stems shrubby at the base.h.1ft. Eastern Europe, 1710. A very common and showy spring plant. See Fig. 70.

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