Chapter 19

FIG. 151. GLOBEARTICHOKE.

Preparation of Soil.Trench the ground two spits deep if possible, mixing a liberal dressing of well-rotted manure in autumn, and ridge up for the winter, to sweeten. Crude manure full of straw, leaves, and sticks, often induce fungoid growths, and are most injurious to the crowns of the plants. Clay or stiff loam is about the worst soil on which to attempt the culture of this vegetable; this drawback may, however, to some extent be alleviated by the addition and thorough amalgamation of a light free soil or liberal dressings of sandy road drifts, or similar materials. An ill-drained soil is also fatal to good results. During hot, dry weather, the plants are greatly benefited by copious applications of clear water and dilute liquid manure; and this must be especially attended to on such soils as are liable to burn or dry up in summer.

Cultivation.When the beds have been properly prepared, the plants should be put in them in April or May. Place three together in rows between 3ft. and 4ft. apart, and about 3ft. from plant to plant. Water-in carefully to settle the soil around the roots, and apply a mulching of half-decayed manure, to prevent an undue evaporation of moisture. During hot, dry weather, give liberal supplies of water, and the plants will become established as fine stools the first season. A few heads will probably be produced the first year; but there will not be much of a crop until the second season, when five or six good heads will be got from each plant, and for three or four years the produce will be large if the beds are properly attended to; after which time it will become desirable to make up new plantations. In October or November, it will be necessary to apply a good mulching of straw or fern to the beds, to protect the plants from frost. In April, all this litter should be cleaned off, a dressing of rotten manure applied, and the beds forked over and kept clean for the rest of the season, treating as before described. Great care must be taken to remove the heads as soon as they are in a fit state; and, when the whole of them are removed from the stems, cut the latter out as low as possible. Globe Artichokes will keep for some considerable time if laid in a cool place, although they will deteriorate in quality. These plants may be used in the background of flower borders in the kitchen garden, their handsome foliage being peculiarly well adapted for such purposes, whilst their economical value is also secured. See Fig. 151. Where there is plenty of room in light, warm sheds, orchard houses, or other places where frost can be kept out, some stools can be taken up with the root intact in the early part of November, placed in boxes of soil, and well watered-in. When drained, the boxes may be put in any of those positions for their winter quarters, and, if kept moist, will develop much earlier than the outdoor crops, provided they are planted out early in April on a warm border, and protected with mats when the weather is cold. Propagation may be effected by seeds, or by suckers from the old stools, the latter being the better plan. In the former case, sow the seeds in March, on a gentle hotbed, and prick the seedlings off singly, when large enough, into small pots. Harden off by the last week in May, and plant out in threes as previously recommended, protecting the plants from late frosts. During the growing season, give an abundance of water and liquid manure mulching, to prevent undue evaporation. In November, well cover with dry litter which will not heat; and, in hard frosts, or heavy snow, throw a few mats over the beds, uncovering at the same time as recommended above for the older plants. To propagate by rooted offsets or suckers, take up and divide the stools, when they have made a fair amount of growth in April or early in May, separating the suckers with as many roots and as much soil adhering to them as possible. The old woody portions are of little use, but they may be replanted to give off a fresh supply of suckers for the next year, if required. Propagation by suckers, if they are to be obtained, has many advantages; but care must be taken, in removing them from old plants, that some roots are attached, or growth will be uncertain. Seeds generally produce a large percentage of plants that are useless, and this is not found out until the flower-heads appear. On the other hand, suckers reproduce the parent plant, and if these are previously selected, the superior stock is thereby perpetuated.

Sorts.The Green and Purple are the best for ordinary purposes; and of these preference should be given to the former.See alsoCynara.

ARTICHOKE, JERUSALEM(Helianthus tuberosus). A hardy tuberous-rooted herbaceous perennial, native of Brazil. The roots are used as a vegetable principally during the winter, sometimes as a dish, but more generally for flavouring purposes. Plants will grow in almost any position, but the best results and largest tubers are obtained where they receive plenty of room and liberal treatment. Their culture has been recommended as a substitute for the potato, but they are not likely to take the place of this vegetable, the flavour being disliked by many persons. A few are, however, generally acceptable.

Cultivation.To ensure the most successful results, trench over a piece of ground in autumn, and give a light dressing of manure. Fork over in March; at thesame time plant good-shaped tubers (see Fig. 152) in rows about 3ft. apart, and allow from 18in. to 2ft. between the tubers in the rows. Keep clear of weeds; and, as soon as the foliage is yellow, in the latter part of the autumn, the roots will be fit for use. The best plan with this crop is to leave it in the ground till wanted, or till the end of February, and then to take up every tuber, replanting those which are wanted for stock, and storing the others away in a cold dry place. When they commence growth, they turn black, and are of little use for cooking, save for flavouring soups. This vegetable has of late years grown into favour as a marketable crop, and the demand seems to be increasing. Considering its very easy culture, it is fairly remunerative.See alsoHelianthus.

FIG. 152. TUBERSOFJERUSALEMARTICHOKE.

ARTICULATE, ARTICULATED.Jointed; having joints.

ARTILLERY PLANT.SeePilea microphylla.

ARTOCARPEÆ.A tribe of the large orderUrticaceæ.

ARTOCARPUS(fromartos, bread, andcarpos, fruit; the fruit, when baked, resembling bread). Bread Fruit. SYNS.Polyphema,Rademachia,Rima. ORD.Urticaceæ. TRIBEArtocarpeæ. Included in this most remarkable tribe, in addition to the Bread Fruit Tree, is the virulent poisonousAntiaris toxicaria, and the economic Cow Tree (Brosimum Galactodendron), of Caraccas. A genus of stove evergreen trees, requiring a high and very moist atmosphere, a copious supply of water, perfect drainage, and a compost of two parts rich loam and one of leaf mould, with the addition of a little silver sand. Under all conditions, this genus is difficult to propagate; the young and slender lateral growths are adapted for cuttings; and suckers may be utilised when procurable, which is very rare.

A. Cannoni(Cannon's).*l.alternate, petiolate; petiole and midrib bright red; upper surface glossy, of a rich, full bronzy crimson hue, beautifully tinted with purple; under surface bright vinous red. The leaves vary much in form; some are simple and cordate at the base, with the apex irregularly lobate; some have the apex regularly three-lobed, with short, entire lobes; and others, again, are deep three-lobed, being divided nearly to the base, the segments, of which the centre one is largest, being slightly sinuate-lobed.h.7ft. Society Islands, 1877. This is a most distinct and handsome ornamental-leaved plant.A. incisa(incised).* True Bread Fruit.l.from 2ft. to 3ft. long, deeply lobed or incised, deep green on the upper side, paler below.h.50ft. South Sea Islands, 1793. This is a noble tree when full grown, and forms a most distinct and beautiful stove plant. The extraordinary fruit is produced from the axils of the leaves in large globular heads, and is highly valued as an article of food in its native country.A. integrifolia(entire-leaved).l.oblong, undivided, sinuated, scabrous, downy beneath.h.30ft. India, 1778.A. laciniata metallica(laciniate, metallic).l.bronzy above, reddish purple beneath. Polynesia.

A. incisa(incised).* True Bread Fruit.l.from 2ft. to 3ft. long, deeply lobed or incised, deep green on the upper side, paler below.h.50ft. South Sea Islands, 1793. This is a noble tree when full grown, and forms a most distinct and beautiful stove plant. The extraordinary fruit is produced from the axils of the leaves in large globular heads, and is highly valued as an article of food in its native country.

A. integrifolia(entire-leaved).l.oblong, undivided, sinuated, scabrous, downy beneath.h.30ft. India, 1778.

A. laciniata metallica(laciniate, metallic).l.bronzy above, reddish purple beneath. Polynesia.

FIG. 153. ARUMMACULATUM.

ARUM(formerlyaron, and probably of Egyptian extraction). ORD.Aroideæ. A large genus of ornamental or curious, hardy, greenhouse or stove perennials, with thick rhizomes and pedate or hastate leaves. Spathe large, convolute; spadix naked and club-shaped at the top. They are all of easy culture, and the indoor species will thrive with such treatment as is given toAlocasias,Caladiums, &c. Rich soil is one of the first conditions of success. Like most plants grown for the beauty of their foliage, rapid and free growth is necessary. A compost of good rich loam, with a third of sweet manure, thoroughly rotted, or leaf mould, with some sharp sand, is very suitable. Plenty of moisture is necessary duringthe growing season, after which the tender kinds should be kept moderately dry, warm, and at rest during the winter. The hardy kinds may be left in the ground. Propagated by seeds or division of the roots—usually the latter. The best time to divide them is just as they commence their new growth, securing as many roots as possible to each division. Any rootless pieces should be placed in heat shortly after removal; this hastens the formation of roots and excites top growth. Arums are useful in sub-tropical gardening, and are otherwise interesting plants both for indoors and outside cultivation; and the hardy kinds are very suitable for naturalising in woodlands, &c. There are many other species besides those here described, but the following list comprises the best. Sub-sections of the genus will be found treated separately, such asAmorphophallus(whichsee), &c.

FIG. 154. ARUMDRACUNCULUS.

A. bulbosum(bulbous). Synonymous withA. ternatum.A. Dracontium(Green Dragon).fl., spadix subulate, longer than the oblong convolute green spathe. June.l.pedate, entire.h.2ft. North America, 1759. Hardy.A. Dracunculus(Common Dragon).*fl., spadix lanceolate, shorter than the ovate, flat, smooth, brown spathe. July.l.pedate, entire.h.3ft. South Europe, 1548. Hardy. SYN.Dracunculus vulgaris. See Fig. 154.A. indicum(Indian).SeeColocasia indica.A. italicum(Italian).*fl., spathe ventricose below, opening nearly flat and very broad above; apex often falling over very shortly after expansion, sometimes greenish yellow, at others nearly white; spadix yellowish or creamy white, club-shaped, about one-third as long as the spathe. Spring.l.appearing before winter, radical, triangular-hastate.h.9in. to 2ft. Channel Islands and Cornwall, &c. Hardy.A. i. marmorata(marbled).*l.marbled with yellow. A very pretty and effective hardy border plant.A. maculatum(spotted). Lords and Ladies; Cuckoo Pint.fl., spathe ventricose below and above, constricted in the middle, with inflexed edges when open, spotted with dull purple; spadix usually purple, shorter than the spathe. Spring.l.vernal radical, hastate-sagittate, with deflexed lobes.h.9in. Britain, &c. This species is admirably adapted for a corner in the wild garden. See Fig. 153.A. Malyi(Maly's).fl.whitish. Montenegro, 1860.A. Nickelli(Nickel's). Levant, 1859. A form ofA. italicum.A. orientale(eastern).fl.resembling those ofA. maculatum. June.l.brownish, simple, ovate, slightly sagittate.h.1ft. Tauria, 1820. Hardy.A. palæstinum(Palestine).*fl., spathe 7in. to 11in. long, purplish blotched or spotted outside, rich velvety black inside and yellowish white at the base of the tube; spadix much shorter than the spathe; petiole usually rising 8in. or 9in. above the leaves. May.l.four or five, triangular-hastate, acute, from 6in. to 14in. long, and from 3½in. to 7½in. broad; petioles 12in. to 18in. long. Jerusalem, 1864. Tender.A. pictum(painted).h.2ft. Corsica, 1801. Hardy.A. proboscideum(proboscis-like).*fl., spathe greenish purple, navicular, horizontal, terminated by a straight tail; scapes arising from among the petioles. May.l.radical, about four, cordate-elliptic, entire.h.6in. South Europe, 1823. Hardy.A. spectabile(showy).fl., spathe ovate-oblong, acuminate, dark purplish inside, longer than the purplish spadix.l.broadly hastate-sagittate.h.1ft. Asia Minor. Half-hardy.A. spirale(spiral).fl., spadix lanceolate, shorter than the oblong-lanceolate spirally twisted brown spathe. May.l.linear-lanceolate. Plant stemless.h.1ft. China, 1816. Tender.A. tenuifolium(narrow-leaved).*fl., spadix subulate, longer than the white lanceolate spathe. April.l.linear-lanceolate. Plant stemless.h.1ft. South Europe, 1570. Hardy.A. ternatum(three-leafleted). A synonym ofPinellia tuberifera.A. variolatum(variegated). Dalmatia, 1859. Hardy.A. venosum(veined). A synonym ofSauromatum guttatum.A. Zelebori(Zelebor's). A form ofA. maculatum.

A. bulbosum(bulbous). Synonymous withA. ternatum.

A. Dracontium(Green Dragon).fl., spadix subulate, longer than the oblong convolute green spathe. June.l.pedate, entire.h.2ft. North America, 1759. Hardy.

A. Dracunculus(Common Dragon).*fl., spadix lanceolate, shorter than the ovate, flat, smooth, brown spathe. July.l.pedate, entire.h.3ft. South Europe, 1548. Hardy. SYN.Dracunculus vulgaris. See Fig. 154.

A. indicum(Indian).SeeColocasia indica.

A. italicum(Italian).*fl., spathe ventricose below, opening nearly flat and very broad above; apex often falling over very shortly after expansion, sometimes greenish yellow, at others nearly white; spadix yellowish or creamy white, club-shaped, about one-third as long as the spathe. Spring.l.appearing before winter, radical, triangular-hastate.h.9in. to 2ft. Channel Islands and Cornwall, &c. Hardy.

A. i. marmorata(marbled).*l.marbled with yellow. A very pretty and effective hardy border plant.

A. maculatum(spotted). Lords and Ladies; Cuckoo Pint.fl., spathe ventricose below and above, constricted in the middle, with inflexed edges when open, spotted with dull purple; spadix usually purple, shorter than the spathe. Spring.l.vernal radical, hastate-sagittate, with deflexed lobes.h.9in. Britain, &c. This species is admirably adapted for a corner in the wild garden. See Fig. 153.

A. Malyi(Maly's).fl.whitish. Montenegro, 1860.

A. Nickelli(Nickel's). Levant, 1859. A form ofA. italicum.

A. orientale(eastern).fl.resembling those ofA. maculatum. June.l.brownish, simple, ovate, slightly sagittate.h.1ft. Tauria, 1820. Hardy.

A. palæstinum(Palestine).*fl., spathe 7in. to 11in. long, purplish blotched or spotted outside, rich velvety black inside and yellowish white at the base of the tube; spadix much shorter than the spathe; petiole usually rising 8in. or 9in. above the leaves. May.l.four or five, triangular-hastate, acute, from 6in. to 14in. long, and from 3½in. to 7½in. broad; petioles 12in. to 18in. long. Jerusalem, 1864. Tender.

A. pictum(painted).h.2ft. Corsica, 1801. Hardy.

A. proboscideum(proboscis-like).*fl., spathe greenish purple, navicular, horizontal, terminated by a straight tail; scapes arising from among the petioles. May.l.radical, about four, cordate-elliptic, entire.h.6in. South Europe, 1823. Hardy.

A. spectabile(showy).fl., spathe ovate-oblong, acuminate, dark purplish inside, longer than the purplish spadix.l.broadly hastate-sagittate.h.1ft. Asia Minor. Half-hardy.

A. spirale(spiral).fl., spadix lanceolate, shorter than the oblong-lanceolate spirally twisted brown spathe. May.l.linear-lanceolate. Plant stemless.h.1ft. China, 1816. Tender.

A. tenuifolium(narrow-leaved).*fl., spadix subulate, longer than the white lanceolate spathe. April.l.linear-lanceolate. Plant stemless.h.1ft. South Europe, 1570. Hardy.

A. ternatum(three-leafleted). A synonym ofPinellia tuberifera.

A. variolatum(variegated). Dalmatia, 1859. Hardy.

A. venosum(veined). A synonym ofSauromatum guttatum.

A. Zelebori(Zelebor's). A form ofA. maculatum.

ARUM LILY.SeeRichardia æthiopica.

ARUNDINARIA(altered fromarundo, a reed). ORD.Gramineæ. A small genus of hardy or nearly hardy shrubby grasses, having strong jointed stems, and frequently included underBambusa. For sub-tropical gardening purposes more particularly it is exceedingly ornamental as an isolated tuft. It thrives best in a deep, rich soil, and requires plenty of water when in a growing state. Increased by division of the roots.

FIG. 155. ARUNDINARIAFALCATA.

A. falcata(sickle-shaped).*l.linear-lanceolate, very acute, shortly stalked, very light green. Stems freely branched, deep green, and very slender.h.3ft. to 6ft. India. An extremely handsome species for greenhouse decoration; also for outdoor work, particularly in the South of England, &c. SYN.Bambusa gracilis, of gardens.A. Maximowiczii(Maximowicz's). This Japanese species is believed to be allied to, if not identical with,Bambusa Simonii.Quite hardy.A. Metake(Metake).l.lanceolate, with very sharp points, dark green, persistent, narrowed into a short leafstalk, 6in. to 12in. long; sheath ample.h.4ft. to 6ft. Japan. A handsome, hardy, dwarf, much-branched species, forming grand specimens, and producing flowers very freely. SYN.Bambusa japonica.

A. Maximowiczii(Maximowicz's). This Japanese species is believed to be allied to, if not identical with,Bambusa Simonii.Quite hardy.

A. Metake(Metake).l.lanceolate, with very sharp points, dark green, persistent, narrowed into a short leafstalk, 6in. to 12in. long; sheath ample.h.4ft. to 6ft. Japan. A handsome, hardy, dwarf, much-branched species, forming grand specimens, and producing flowers very freely. SYN.Bambusa japonica.

ARUNDO(origin of word doubtful; stated by some authorities to be fromarundo, a reed; and others as from the Celticarn, signifying water). Reed. ORD.Gramineæ. A very ornamental group of half or quite hardy plants, of very easy culture in ordinary garden soil, preferring damp situations. Panicle loose; calyx two-valved, unequal, many-flowered; corolla of two very unequal valves; all, except the lower and imperfect one, surrounded by a tuft of hairs. Fruit free, covered by the corolla. Arundos are very valuable either for conservatory decoration, sub*-tropical gardening, or cultivation in clumps on the turf of the flower-garden or pleasure ground, and the margins of lakes. Although well worth growing, all are inferior to their ally, the Pampas Grass. Propagated by seeds or divisions, the spring being the best time to adopt either method of increase.

A. conspicua(conspicuous).*fl.silky-white, on large drooping racemes, and lasting in beauty for several months.h.3ft. to 8ft., but in a good deep and sandy loam it sometimes attains the height of 12ft. New Zealand, 1843. This fine species grows in dense tufts, from which arise numerous leathery, narrow, smooth (or slightly rough), long curving leaves, and erect, slender culms. The plant is not sufficiently hardy to withstand a severe winter, and should, therefore, be protected with mats, or be grown in tubs, so that it can be removed under shelter before the approach of winter. These precautions are unnecessary in the more southern counties of England.A. Donax(Donax).* Great Reed.fl.reddish, ultimately whitish, in numerous spikelets, forming a large compact panicle 12in. to 16in. long. Autumn.l.alternate, lanceolate-acute, large, and ornamental, glaucous green, arching.h.about 12ft. South Europe, 1648. This also requires protection during winter in the colder counties. See Fig. 156.A. D. versicolor(various-coloured).*h.3ft. South Europe. Although much smaller, this variety is far superior to the type for gardening purposes, and has its leaves ribboned with white. It requires a deep, well drained, sandy loam to thrive well, and a thorough winter protection of cocoa-fibre refuse or coal ashes. For isolated tufts or groups, few plants can equal it. It is propagated by placing a stem in water, which induces little rooted plants to start from the joints; these should be separated, potted off, and kept in frames until thoroughly established.A. mauritanica(Mediterranean Reed). This is a rare greenhouse species, closely allied toA. Donax, but inferior to it.

A. Donax(Donax).* Great Reed.fl.reddish, ultimately whitish, in numerous spikelets, forming a large compact panicle 12in. to 16in. long. Autumn.l.alternate, lanceolate-acute, large, and ornamental, glaucous green, arching.h.about 12ft. South Europe, 1648. This also requires protection during winter in the colder counties. See Fig. 156.

A. D. versicolor(various-coloured).*h.3ft. South Europe. Although much smaller, this variety is far superior to the type for gardening purposes, and has its leaves ribboned with white. It requires a deep, well drained, sandy loam to thrive well, and a thorough winter protection of cocoa-fibre refuse or coal ashes. For isolated tufts or groups, few plants can equal it. It is propagated by placing a stem in water, which induces little rooted plants to start from the joints; these should be separated, potted off, and kept in frames until thoroughly established.

A. mauritanica(Mediterranean Reed). This is a rare greenhouse species, closely allied toA. Donax, but inferior to it.

FIG. 156. ARUNDODONAX.

ARYTERA.A synonym ofRatonia(whichsee).

ASAFŒTIDA.SeeNarthex Asafœtida.

ASARABACCA.SeeAsarum europæum.

ASARUM(froma, not, andsaron, feminine; derivation doubtful). ORD.Aristolochiaceæ. Curious hardy herbaceous perennials, with bell-shaped, three-cleft perianths. They should be planted at the foot of the rockery, or in borders or woodlands, as they are not very showy, but are, nevertheless, worth growing, and easily propagated by divisions, in spring.

A. canadense(Canadian).*fl.brown, campanulate, on a short peduncle, sometimes nearly buried. May and June.l.in pairs, broadly reniform.h.1ft. Canada, &c., 1713.

FIG. 157. ASARUMCAUDATUM.

A. caudatum(tailed).*fl.brownish-red, with attenuated or caudate calyx lobes. July.l. cordate-reniform, hooded, sub-acute, or bluntish, slightly pubescent. California, 1880. A rare and pretty species. See Fig. 157.A. europæum(European). A sarabacca.fl.dull brown, solitary, rather large, drooping; segments of perianth incurved. May.l.two on each stem, roundish-reniform, stalked, slightly waved.h.1ft. England.

A. europæum(European). A sarabacca.fl.dull brown, solitary, rather large, drooping; segments of perianth incurved. May.l.two on each stem, roundish-reniform, stalked, slightly waved.h.1ft. England.

ASCENDING.Directed upwards; as the stem, which is the ascending axis.

ASCLEPIADEÆ.A large order of, for the most part, lactescent, climbing shrubs. Flowers sub-umbellate, fascicled or racemose, interpetiolar; pollen collected in the form of waxy masses, coalescing to the cells of the anthers; follicles two, one of which is abortive. Leaves entire, usually opposite.

ASCLEPIAS(the Greek name of Æsculapius of the Latins). Swallow-wort. ORD.Asclepiadeæ. Erect, hardy, herbaceous or sub-shrubby perennials, except where otherwise specified. Corolla five-parted, reflexed; umbels interpetiolar; corona seated on the upper part of the tube of the filaments, five-leaved. Leaves opposite, verticillate, sometimes alternate. Most of the hardy species are very handsome border plants, thriving in peaty, or light rich soil, and are increased by dividing the roots in spring, and sometimes also by seeds. The doubtfully hardy or rarer species should always be grown in a peat soil, and have a little protection during severe frost, by mulching the roots. The most important of the greenhouse and stove species isA. curassavica. In order to obtain good bushy specimens of this, it will be necessary to cut the plants back annually, after keeping them slightly dry, and resting for a month or two in midwinter. When growth has sufficiently advanced, they should be shaken out and repotted. At this stage, a close, moist atmosphere will be needful to produce the usually very free growth. The points of the shoots must be nipped out, in order to promote a bushy habit. When the pots have become filled with roots, liquid manure may be applied; but it must be quite clear and not over strong. All the indoor species grow best in good fibry loam and leaf mould, and require to be potted firmly. Cuttings should be secured in spring, struck in gentle heat, under a bell glass, and as soon as they are well rooted, potted into 60-size pots. A shift must be given as often as the pots become filled with roots, up to the time when the plant commences flowering. Seeds may be sown in pots in spring, pricked out singly when large enough, and then treated similarly to cuttings.

A. acuminata(taper-pointed).*fl.red and white; umbels lateral, solitary, erect. July.l.ovate, sub-cordate, acuminated, on short petioles; superior ones sessile, glabrous, but rough on the edges. Stems erect, glabrous, simple.h.2ft. New Jersey, 1826. Hardy, herbaceous.A. amœna(pleasing).*fl.beautiful purple; umbels terminal, erect; appendages of corona exserted, red. July.l.opposite, almost sessile, oblong-oval, downy beneath, with a large purple middle nerve. Stem simple, with two rows of down.h.2ft. to 3ft. New England, 1732. Hardy, herbaceous.A. Cornuti(Cornuti's).* Synonymous withA. syriaca.A. curassavica(Curassavian). Redhead.fl.reddish orange-scarlet; umbels erect, solitary, lateral. July to September.l.opposite, oblong-lanceolate, tapering at both ends. Stem rather downy, simple, seldom a little branched.h.1ft. to 3ft. Tropical America, 1692. The white-flowered variety is a very pretty contrast. Stove herbaceous.A. Douglasii(Douglas's).*fl.large, waxy, purplish-lilac, sweet-scented, in many-flowered umbels. Summer.l.opposite, ovate-cordate, acuminated, 6½in. long by 5in. or more wide, glabrous above, downy beneath. Stem thick, woolly, simple.h.2ft. to 3ft. West America, 1846.A. hybrida(hybrid). A synonym ofA. purpurascens.A. incarnata(flesh-coloured).*fl.red or purplish; umbels numerous, usually twin. July.l.opposite, lanceolate, rather woolly on both surfaces. Stem erect, branched and tomentose at the top.h.2ft. Canada (on the banks of rivers), 1710. Hardy, herbaceous.A. mexicana(Mexican).fl.white; umbels many-flowered. July.l.verticillate, linear-lanceolate, with revolute edges;lower ones four to six in a whorl; upper ones three in a whorl, or opposite.h.2ft. to 3ft. Mexico, 1821. Greenhouse evergreen.A. phytolaccoides(Phytolacca-like).fl.purple; corona white, with truncate leaflets; umbels lateral and terminal, solitary, on long peduncles, drooping. July.l.broad, ovate-oblong, acute, glabrous, paler beneath. Stem erect, simple, spotted with purple.h.3ft. to 4ft. Virginia and Carolina (on the mountains), 1812.A. purpurascens(purplish).fl.purple; umbels erect. July.l.opposite, large, ovate, with a purplish middle nerve, villous beneath. Stem simple, rather hairy at top, brownish green at bottom.h.2ft. to 3ft. Virginia (in shady swamps), 1732. Hardy. SYN.A. hybrida.A. quadrifolia(four-leaved).*fl.white, small, sweet-scented, with red nectaries; umbels twin, terminal, loose-flowered; pedicels filiform. July.l.ovate, acuminated, petiolate; those in the middle of the stem larger, and four in a whorl; the rest opposite. Stems erect, simple, glabrous.h.1ft. New York, 1820. Hardy species.A. rubra(red),fl.red; umbels compound, July, August.l.alternate, ovate, acuminated. Stem erect, simple.h.1ft. to 2ft. Virginia, 1825.A. Sullivanti(Sullivant's). Similar toA. syriaca, but having larger and deeper coloured flowers.A. syriaca(Syrian).*fl.pale purple, sweet scented, in large, loose, drooping umbels. July.l.opposite, lanceolate-oblong, or oval, gradually acute, tomentose beneath. Stems simple.h.3ft. to 5ft. North America, 1629. SYN.A. Cornuti.

A. amœna(pleasing).*fl.beautiful purple; umbels terminal, erect; appendages of corona exserted, red. July.l.opposite, almost sessile, oblong-oval, downy beneath, with a large purple middle nerve. Stem simple, with two rows of down.h.2ft. to 3ft. New England, 1732. Hardy, herbaceous.

A. Cornuti(Cornuti's).* Synonymous withA. syriaca.

A. curassavica(Curassavian). Redhead.fl.reddish orange-scarlet; umbels erect, solitary, lateral. July to September.l.opposite, oblong-lanceolate, tapering at both ends. Stem rather downy, simple, seldom a little branched.h.1ft. to 3ft. Tropical America, 1692. The white-flowered variety is a very pretty contrast. Stove herbaceous.

A. Douglasii(Douglas's).*fl.large, waxy, purplish-lilac, sweet-scented, in many-flowered umbels. Summer.l.opposite, ovate-cordate, acuminated, 6½in. long by 5in. or more wide, glabrous above, downy beneath. Stem thick, woolly, simple.h.2ft. to 3ft. West America, 1846.

A. hybrida(hybrid). A synonym ofA. purpurascens.

A. incarnata(flesh-coloured).*fl.red or purplish; umbels numerous, usually twin. July.l.opposite, lanceolate, rather woolly on both surfaces. Stem erect, branched and tomentose at the top.h.2ft. Canada (on the banks of rivers), 1710. Hardy, herbaceous.

A. mexicana(Mexican).fl.white; umbels many-flowered. July.l.verticillate, linear-lanceolate, with revolute edges;lower ones four to six in a whorl; upper ones three in a whorl, or opposite.h.2ft. to 3ft. Mexico, 1821. Greenhouse evergreen.

A. phytolaccoides(Phytolacca-like).fl.purple; corona white, with truncate leaflets; umbels lateral and terminal, solitary, on long peduncles, drooping. July.l.broad, ovate-oblong, acute, glabrous, paler beneath. Stem erect, simple, spotted with purple.h.3ft. to 4ft. Virginia and Carolina (on the mountains), 1812.

A. purpurascens(purplish).fl.purple; umbels erect. July.l.opposite, large, ovate, with a purplish middle nerve, villous beneath. Stem simple, rather hairy at top, brownish green at bottom.h.2ft. to 3ft. Virginia (in shady swamps), 1732. Hardy. SYN.A. hybrida.

A. quadrifolia(four-leaved).*fl.white, small, sweet-scented, with red nectaries; umbels twin, terminal, loose-flowered; pedicels filiform. July.l.ovate, acuminated, petiolate; those in the middle of the stem larger, and four in a whorl; the rest opposite. Stems erect, simple, glabrous.h.1ft. New York, 1820. Hardy species.

A. rubra(red),fl.red; umbels compound, July, August.l.alternate, ovate, acuminated. Stem erect, simple.h.1ft. to 2ft. Virginia, 1825.

A. Sullivanti(Sullivant's). Similar toA. syriaca, but having larger and deeper coloured flowers.

A. syriaca(Syrian).*fl.pale purple, sweet scented, in large, loose, drooping umbels. July.l.opposite, lanceolate-oblong, or oval, gradually acute, tomentose beneath. Stems simple.h.3ft. to 5ft. North America, 1629. SYN.A. Cornuti.

FIG. 158. FLOWERINGBRANCHOFASCLEPIASTUBEROSA.

A. tuberosa(tuberous).*fl.bright orange, very showy; umbels disposed in a terminal sub-corymb. July to September.l.scattered, oblong-lanceolate, hairy. Stems erectish, divaricately branched at top, very hairy.h.1ft. to 2ft. North America (in stony, sandy fields and woods), 1690. A desirable hardy herbaceous border plant. See Fig. 158.A. variegata(variegated).fl., petals and foliola of corona white, fructification red, in dense umbels, very handsome; umbels almost sessile; pedicels hairy. July.l.opposite, ovate, petiolate, wrinkled, naked. Stems simple. erect, variegated with purple.h.3ft. to 4ft. New York to Carolina (on dry, sandy hills), 1597.A. verticillata(whorled).fl., corolla with yellowish green petals and white nectaries; umbels many-flowered. July and August.l.very narrow, linear, thick, quite glabrous, usually verticillate, but sometimes scattered. Stems erect, often branched, having a downy line on one side.h.1ft. to 2ft. New Jersey, 1759.

A. variegata(variegated).fl., petals and foliola of corona white, fructification red, in dense umbels, very handsome; umbels almost sessile; pedicels hairy. July.l.opposite, ovate, petiolate, wrinkled, naked. Stems simple. erect, variegated with purple.h.3ft. to 4ft. New York to Carolina (on dry, sandy hills), 1597.

A. verticillata(whorled).fl., corolla with yellowish green petals and white nectaries; umbels many-flowered. July and August.l.very narrow, linear, thick, quite glabrous, usually verticillate, but sometimes scattered. Stems erect, often branched, having a downy line on one side.h.1ft. to 2ft. New Jersey, 1759.

ASCYRON.SeeHypericum Ascyron.

ASCYRUM(froma, without, andskyros, hard; that is to say, a plant which is soft to the touch). ORD.Hypericinæ. A genus of elegant little herbs and sub-shrubs, with sessile, entire leaves, destitute of pellucid dots, but usually furnished with black dots beneath. Flowers resemblingHypericum. They require to be protected during winter by a frame; for this purpose they should be grown in pots, as they never exist long in the open border. A compost of peat, pure leaf soil, and sand, in equal portions, suits them well; young cuttings of the shrubby kinds will root in sand under a hand bell glass. Propagated by careful divisions of the roots in spring. All may be raised from seeds.

A. amplexicaule(stem-clasping).fl.yellow, few, axillary, and terminal; corymbs naked. July.l.stem-clasping, ovate, cordate, sinuately-curled. Stem dichotomously panicled.h.2ft. North America, 1823. The flowers and leaves are longer in this than in any other of the species.A. Crux Andreæ.* St. Andrew's Cross.fl., petals narrow-pale, yellow, nearly sessile, in terminal corymbs. July.l.ovate-linear, obtuse, usually in bundles in the axils. Stem shrubby, round.h.1ft. North America (in sandy fields), 1759. This proves to be quite hardy in many situations.A. hypericoides(Hypericum-like).fl.yellow. August.l.linear-oblong, obtuse.h.2ft. North America, 1759.A. stans(standing). St. Peter's Wort.fl.yellow. August.l.oval or oblong, somewhat clasping.h.2ft. North America, 1816.

A. Crux Andreæ.* St. Andrew's Cross.fl., petals narrow-pale, yellow, nearly sessile, in terminal corymbs. July.l.ovate-linear, obtuse, usually in bundles in the axils. Stem shrubby, round.h.1ft. North America (in sandy fields), 1759. This proves to be quite hardy in many situations.

A. hypericoides(Hypericum-like).fl.yellow. August.l.linear-oblong, obtuse.h.2ft. North America, 1759.

A. stans(standing). St. Peter's Wort.fl.yellow. August.l.oval or oblong, somewhat clasping.h.2ft. North America, 1816.

ASHES.The earthy or mineral particles of combustible substances, remaining after combustion. Ashes are amongst the most economical manures.

Vegetable Ashesare generally the best application for manuring boggy, cold, and, consequently, sour and unprofitable land, in quantities of about forty bushels per acre, thinly and evenly distributed. The annual exhaustion of salts from large crops of grain, roots, and grass, is from 180lb. to more than 250lb. per acre; and the aggregate of a few years will so far impoverish the soil in one or more of the principles necessary to sustain a luxuriant vegetation, that it will cease to yield remunerating returns. The ashes of vegetables consist of such elements as are always required for their perfect maturity, and it is evident they must furnish one of the best saline manures which can be supplied for their growth; they contain, in fact, every element, and generally in the right proportions, for insuring a full and rapid growth. Both gardener and farmer will therefore perceive the great value of Ashes to their crops.

Coal Ashes.The bituminous and anthracite coals afford Ashes, and, although inferior in quality to those made from wood and vegetables, are, like them, a valuable manure, and they should be applied to the land in a similar manner. If they contain many cinders, from not having been thoroughlyburned, they are more suited to heavy than to light soils. Coal Ashes, if very fine, may be sprinkled half an inch deep on the surface, over peas and beans, &c., to preserve them from mice; they may also be used for garden and greenhouse walks, where bricks or tiles are absent, being tidy in appearance, and an excellent substitute for other and more expensive material.

Peat Ashes.Peat approaching to purity, when thrown out of its bed and thoroughly dried, may be burned to an imperfect Ash, and when it does not reach this point, it will become thoroughly charred, and reduced to cinders. The process of burning should be as slow as possible. In either form, it is a valuable dressing for the soil.

ASH-TREE.SeeFraxinus.

ASIATIC POISON BULB.SeeCrinum asiaticum.

ASIMINA(meaning unknown). ORD.Anonaceæ. Hardy shrubs, with oblong, cuneated, usually deciduous leaves. Flowers sometimes rising before the leaves, usually solitary and axillary. They thrive freely in a mixture of sand and peat. Propagated by layers put down in the autumn, or by seed, procured from their native country. Seedlings should be raised in pots, and sheltered in winter, until they have acquired a considerable size.

FIG. 159. FLOWERINGBRANCHOFASIMINATRILOBA.

A. triloba(three-lobed).*fl.campanulate, the three outer petals pale purplish, and the three inner ones smaller, purplish on the outside as well as the inside at the base and apex, with the middle yellow, about 2in. diameter, produced between the upper leaves. May.l.oblong-cuneated, often acuminated, and, as well as the branches, smoothish.h.10ft. Pennsylvania, 1736. A small tree or shrub. See Fig. 159.

ASKALLON(the Eschallot).SeeAllium ascalonicum.

ASPALATHUS(froma, not, andspao, to extract; in reference to the difficulty of extracting its thorns from a wound). IncludingSarcophyllus. ORD.Leguminosæ. Shrubs or sub-shrubs, natives, with one exception, of the Cape of Good Hope. Flowers usually yellow, furnished with three bracteoles, or a leaf comprised of three leaflets. Leaves of three to five leaflets, disposed palmately, rarely pinnately, having scarcely any or very short petioles. All the species are pretty when in flower, and thrive in a mixture of loam, peat, and sand. Young cuttings of half-ripened wood will strike in April, in sand, under bell glasses, which must be wiped dry occasionally. But little water is needed. Over a hundred species are known; those introduced are very rarely seen in cultivation.

ASPARAGUS(froma, intensive, andsparasso, to tear; in reference to the strong prickles of some species). ORD.Liliaceæ. Erect or climbing herbs or shrubs, with very small scale-like leaves, and a profusion of numerous slender fascicled-needle, rather spiny branchlets. Flowers axillary, inconspicuous. Fruit baccate. The indoor species will all thrive well in a warm greenhouse temperature, provided they have partial shade, a good supply of moisture at the roots, and are not kept too close, in a moderately rich sandy compost. The hardy species are propagated chiefly by seeds and divisions of the roots. Rich sandy loam is necessary, and otherwise they may be treated as ordinary perennials. Some of the species belonging to this genus are among the most elegant of foliage plants for cutting purposes.A. decumbensandA. scandensmake excellent plants for Wardian cases, and may be cut in freely if they exceed their limits.

ASPARAGUS(A. officinalis)ASAVEGETABLE. The value and importance of this plant as a vegetable cannot be over-estimated; it is extensively grown, and, when properly managed, produces a fairly lucrative crop.

Soil and Bed.The first thing to be done in the preparation of an Asparagus bed to stand for any length of time, is to secure an efficient drainage; and on wet soils this is best effected by placing a layer of brick rubbish over the whole of the bottom, and connecting this with a drain. On gravelly or other soils which are drained naturally, of course, this is not needed; but if really good crops are adesideratum, water should not stand within 3ft. of the surface. In all cases, the ground must be dug to a depth of 18in., and, if stiff, a goodly amount of road sweepings, or other gritty materials, should be well mixed with the staple soil. Asparagus requires a good soil, neither too heavy nor too light.

Manuring.After the soil has been well trenched, and has lain long enough to settle down, a good dressing of manure—thoroughly rotted, and not too rank, at the rate of from twenty to thirty tons to the acre, dug into the surface of the beds—will be found very beneficial. If possible, this should be introduced in January; and then, if the weather permits, the beds should be forked two or three times by the end of March, so as to render the soil as friable as possible. A very good manure, and one that is easily obtained, is common garden salt. This may be given annually to established beds. A moderate dressing should be applied just before growth commences in spring, but a little will do no harm at other times during the summer. It is best scattered on with the hand, and a showery day should be selected, as it will then soon disappear. Salt, besides acting as a manure, has also the properties of keeping the beds cool and moist in hot weather, and of preventing the growth of weeds.

Planting.Asparagus can be planted during March and April, the latter month being the best time for the work. The soil having been thoroughly prepared, the next point is to decide on the size of the beds; thisdepends on the size of garden, and the class of "grass" desired. When very large and fine stocks are the object in view, the best results will accrue if the plants are fully a yard apart each way; but this means a comparatively small crop. A good plan is to make the beds 3ft. wide, planting two rows, at a distance of 1ft. from each other, and allowing 18in. between each plant, placing them in alternate order. An 18in. alley should be allowed between the beds. The roots used for making the beds should be one year old, and fresh from the ground. In planting, pull out a wide drill with a hoe, or other tool, to the depth of about 3in. or 4in., and spread out the roots all round. Carefully shake the soil in amongst the roots, and, if dry, apply some water through a coarse-rosed watering pot, to settle the earth around them. At intervals, as necessary, give other waterings till September, when they should be discontinued. At all times, keep the beds free from weeds, removing them by the hand to prevent injury to the crowns of the plants. If the ground is good, no liquid manure will be needed the first year. As soon as the foliage turns yellow, cut it off, cleanly rake over the beds, and leave till about January, when a top-dressing of from 1in. to 3in. of thoroughly rotted manure may be applied with advantage. At the end of February, rake off the bed all loose straw or otherdebris, and throw on them a little of the soil from the alleys, raking down, and finishing off the edges squarely and neatly. During this and succeeding years, apply liquid manure and clear water, from time to time, as required; and, provided the manure is not of too great strength, there is scarcely any limit to its application; but, in many instances, beds which have only received an annual dressing have given a good return. Each year they must be cut over and dressed as before described, but care must be taken to keep them flat on the surface, otherwise the plants will die out for want of moisture. When the produce appears, the beds should be kept cut over until the 20th of June, after which, cutting should cease, or they will be rendered comparatively unproductive. Cutting can commence the second or third year, or as soon as there is any "grass" worth taking. Several methods of growing these plants could be cited, but that which we have recommended will be found most satisfactory.

FIG. 160. ASPARAGUS, Crown for Lifting.

Seeds.Plants are raised by sowing seeds in rows across the kitchen garden, or selected quarter, about the month of April. The seedlings make a growth, and form good plants during the first season. In March or April of the following year, or the year after, they may be removed, and planted out permanently, as already alluded to. Many cultivators prefer growing their own plants from seed; because during the transit of the roots from any distance to where they are to be grown, a frequent and injurious exhaustion takes place, and particularly so when they are carelessly packed.

Forcing.Asparagus can, if properly treated, be obtained from December onwards; and at Christmas time the produce is very valuable; but, in order to obtain it at this season, it will be necessary to resort to forcing. Prepare some beds to secure a lasting heat, and on these place about 3in. of ordinary garden soil, not very stiff. Then take the roots, and place them crown upwards, and moderately close together, shaking the soil well amongst the roots, and covering about a couple of inches deep. Water well, to settle the whole, and put on the lights, allowing a little ventilation, to let out any steam which may arise. Unless the weather be very cold indeed, give a little air at all times, and only cover the lights in actual frost. From time to time, apply fresh linings of hot manure, and in cold rains, or wind, cover the outsides of the frames with old sacks, or other things which will keep in the heat. A regular and steady temperature of 60deg. will force this plant with better results than a higher one. Houses that are fitted with hot-water pipes to give bottom heat can be used equally as well as manure beds, and so long as the soil is kept moist, the heat thus obtained is as good as any for the purpose, and much less trouble than fermenting materials. To keep up a regular supply, a succession of beds will be necessary. Asparagus can be forced, or rather forwarded, in pots or boxes, in a warm greenhouse or vinery, and, of course, when the plants are done with, they can be cast away. We give an illustration (Fig. 160) of a bearing crown fit for gentle forcing; but, of course, it must not be left so bare of earth as appears here, which is done for the purpose of clearness.

Varieties.Connover's Colossal, and Giant, are the most esteemed. Strains are frequently largely advertised as improvements on the sorts above-mentioned, and the charges are higher accordingly. The difference may be generally attributed to the culture the plants receive more than to an improved variety. When saving seed for home sowing, they should be taken from the strongest growths, or deterioration will ensue.

A. æthiopicus ternifolius(ternate).fl.white, in shortly-stalked racemes, very profuse. August.l., false ones in threes, flattened, narrow, linear; prickles solitary, reversed; branches angular.h.30ft. South Africa, 1872. A greenhouse evergreen.A. Broussoneti(Broussonet's).*fl.very small, succeeded by small red berries. May.l., lower ones solitary, the others ternate, 1in. long, needle-shaped, persistent, distant, glaucescent; stipules with reflected spines at the base. Summer. Stem tapering, streaked, shrubby.h.10ft. Canary Islands, 1822. A very pretty hardy climber.A. Cooperi(Cooper's).fl.axillary, one to three, from the same nodes as the false leaves; perianth cream-coloured, one line long. April and May.l.minute, deltoid, scariose, reddish-brown; false leaves six to fifteen to a node, subulate, moderately firm, ¼in. to ⅜in. long, spreading or ascending.h.10ft. to 12ft. Africa, 1862. A greenhouse climber, with a shrubby terete main stem, 1½in. to 2in. thick at the base, sending out crowds of spreading branches, which bear abundant slender, firm, alternate branchlets; nodes of branches and branchlets, furnished with distinct red-brown, subulate prickles, those of the main stems ¼in. long, deflexed, but not curved.A. decumbens(decumbent).* Stem unarmed, decumbent, much branched; branches wavy; leaves setaceous, in threes. Cape of Good Hope, 1792. A greenhouse evergreen herbaceous perennial.A. falcatus(hooked-leaved).l.fascicled, linear, falcate; branches round; prickles solitary, recurved; peduncles one-flowered, clustered.h.3ft. India, 1792. A greenhouse evergreen perennial.A. officinalis(officinal). Common Asparagus.fl.greenish-white, drooping. August.l.setaceous, fasciculate, flexible,unarmed. Stem herbaceous, mostly erect, rounded, very much branched.h.1ft. Said to grow on "Asparagus Island," Kynance Cove, Lizard, but we have never found it there, and it has probably long since been exterminated.A. plumosus(plumed).*fl.white, small, produced from the tips of the branchlets. Spring.l., true ones in the form of minute deltoid scales, with an acute ultimately reflexed point; the false ones are grouped in tufts, each being ⅛in. to ¼in. long, bristle-shaped, and finely pointed. South Africa, 1876. An elegant evergreen climber, with smooth stems and numerous spreading branches. It forms an excellent plant when trained in pots, and is invaluable for cutting.A. p. nanus(dwarf).* A very elegant dwarf variety of above. Stems tufted, slender, and gracefully arching. South Africa, 1880. For bouquets, the cut sprays of both type and variety have the advantage of much greater persistency than any fern, retaining their freshness in water from three to four weeks. See Fig. 161, for which we are indebted to Messrs. Veitch and Sons.A. racemosus(racemose).fl.greenish-white, in many-flowered axillary racemes. May.l.bundled, linear-subulate, falcate; branches striated; prickles solitary.h.3ft. India, 1808. Greenhouse evergreen shrub.

A. Broussoneti(Broussonet's).*fl.very small, succeeded by small red berries. May.l., lower ones solitary, the others ternate, 1in. long, needle-shaped, persistent, distant, glaucescent; stipules with reflected spines at the base. Summer. Stem tapering, streaked, shrubby.h.10ft. Canary Islands, 1822. A very pretty hardy climber.

A. Cooperi(Cooper's).fl.axillary, one to three, from the same nodes as the false leaves; perianth cream-coloured, one line long. April and May.l.minute, deltoid, scariose, reddish-brown; false leaves six to fifteen to a node, subulate, moderately firm, ¼in. to ⅜in. long, spreading or ascending.h.10ft. to 12ft. Africa, 1862. A greenhouse climber, with a shrubby terete main stem, 1½in. to 2in. thick at the base, sending out crowds of spreading branches, which bear abundant slender, firm, alternate branchlets; nodes of branches and branchlets, furnished with distinct red-brown, subulate prickles, those of the main stems ¼in. long, deflexed, but not curved.

A. decumbens(decumbent).* Stem unarmed, decumbent, much branched; branches wavy; leaves setaceous, in threes. Cape of Good Hope, 1792. A greenhouse evergreen herbaceous perennial.

A. falcatus(hooked-leaved).l.fascicled, linear, falcate; branches round; prickles solitary, recurved; peduncles one-flowered, clustered.h.3ft. India, 1792. A greenhouse evergreen perennial.

A. officinalis(officinal). Common Asparagus.fl.greenish-white, drooping. August.l.setaceous, fasciculate, flexible,unarmed. Stem herbaceous, mostly erect, rounded, very much branched.h.1ft. Said to grow on "Asparagus Island," Kynance Cove, Lizard, but we have never found it there, and it has probably long since been exterminated.

A. plumosus(plumed).*fl.white, small, produced from the tips of the branchlets. Spring.l., true ones in the form of minute deltoid scales, with an acute ultimately reflexed point; the false ones are grouped in tufts, each being ⅛in. to ¼in. long, bristle-shaped, and finely pointed. South Africa, 1876. An elegant evergreen climber, with smooth stems and numerous spreading branches. It forms an excellent plant when trained in pots, and is invaluable for cutting.

A. p. nanus(dwarf).* A very elegant dwarf variety of above. Stems tufted, slender, and gracefully arching. South Africa, 1880. For bouquets, the cut sprays of both type and variety have the advantage of much greater persistency than any fern, retaining their freshness in water from three to four weeks. See Fig. 161, for which we are indebted to Messrs. Veitch and Sons.

A. racemosus(racemose).fl.greenish-white, in many-flowered axillary racemes. May.l.bundled, linear-subulate, falcate; branches striated; prickles solitary.h.3ft. India, 1808. Greenhouse evergreen shrub.

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