Robert Buist

Very few directions for this department remain to be given; except for shifting plants, and a few observations on those that are most desirable for the Hot-house; which we will do in this month, considering May and June the best months of the year for that operation.

The days and nights will be very mild by this time, and the sashes in every favourable day should be opened both in front and top, so that the plants may be enured to the open air, which they will be exposed to by the end of the month, Leave in the beginning of the month the top sashes a little open every mild night, and gradually as the heat increases leave the front sashes and doors open. Continue to syringe them at least every alternate night, and if possible every night; and give them all, according to their respective wants, liberal supplies of water every day. Absorption amongst Hot-house plants is as great during this month as in any period of the year.

OF REPOTTING PLANTS, &c.

It is our candid opinion that this and next month are the best periods for shifting or repotting all or most of Hot-house plants. The end of August being the time always adopted around Philadelphia for that operation (and then they are done indiscriminately,) we will assign a few reasons for our practice.

First, that it is not congenial to the nature of these plants to have their roots surrounded with fresh soil, when they are becoming inactive; secondly, that there is not a sufficiency of heat naturally to quicken them to an active state when they are encouraged; and thirdly, being thus in new soil while dormant, they have a yellow and sickly aspect until they begin to grow; and the foliage thus deprived of its natural vigour will not appear so healthful again. Whereas, if they are shifted or repotted in this or next month, at which season they are between two stages of growth, they immediately, on receiving fresh assistance, and by the increasing heat of the summer, make new growths, are perfectly ripened before the approach of winter, and never lose that verdureal appearance they have attained. These are our reasons acquired from a close practice and observation, and are not influenced by the doings of others which are so much aside. No practical operator especially, nor in fact any individual, ought to be governed by custom in regard to the treatment of plants, without having an idea as to why and wherefore, founded on the principles of nature, and governed by her unerring results.

As many are desirous of having a knowledge of plants, before they order them, and likewise which are the finest flowerers and their general character, especially those who are at a great distance, and seldom have the privilege of seeing what is most desirable, our descriptions will be limited, and simply such as are given for the Green-house in March.

AcÀcias. Several of these are desirable in the Hot-house, for the grandeur of their foliage, beauty of flower, and a few of them as specimens of valuable medicinal plants. A. HoustÓni, now AnneslÈia HoustÓni, is one of the most magnificent of the MimÒsa tribe, blooming from August to November in large terminale spikes, of a crimson colour, stamens very long, and beautiful; leaves bipinnated in pairs. A. grandiflÒra, likewise given to AnneslÈia, and similar to the former in colour; has very large compound bipinnate leaves, with from twenty to forty pairs. A. CatÈchu, flowers yellow, wood spiny, leaves bipinnated, about ten pairs. The inner wood of this tree is of a brown colour, from which the CatÈchu used in medicine is prepared. It is disputed whether A. VÉra, or A. ArÁbica produces the gum Arabic. We are inclined to think it is the latter, which grows principally on the Atlas mountains. The gum exudes spontaneously from the bark of the tree in a soft half fluid state. There are many others of this genus belonging to the Hot-house, but being shy in flowering, are not generally esteemed. Most of the flowers have the appearance of yellow balls of down, and are hermaphrodite. The pots should all be well drained.

Aloe. These grotesque looking succulent plants are principally natives of the Cape of Good Hope, and consequently will do well in the warmest part of the Green-house, although when convenient, they frequently get a situation in the Hot-house. It is not requisite, except for A. vulgÀris, known as A. barbadÉnsis; which has orange yellow flowers; A. oblÍqua, now called GastÈria oblÍqua; A. dichÓtoma; and A. lineÀta, which is perhaps the finest of the genus. The leaves are beautifully striped, with red spines, flowers scarlet and green. These are the only ones that actually need heat during winter. They ought to have very little water, once a month is sufficient. They would grow without it, and several of them would also grow by being suspended in the house, without earth or any substitute about their roots, by being frequently sprinkled with water.

Few of them are admired for the beauty of their flowers, but the whole are considered curious. They flower from May to September.

ArdÍsias, about eighteen species. Plants highly esteemed for the beauty of their foliage, flowers, and berries. The most popular in our collections is A. crenulÀta. It has rose coloured star-like flowers, in terminale panicles, and produces beautiful small red berries, which continue until other berries are produced the following year, and frequently there may be seen on one plant, the berries of three successive years, thus being a very ornamental plant and very desirable. It is vulgarly called the Dwarf ever-bearing cherry. It will keep in a good Green-house, but not grow freely. A. solanÀcea has large oblong leaves, narrowed at each end, and bears purple berries; A. Élegans has entire, oblong, shining leaves; A. umbellÀta, once A. littorÀlis, is the finest of the genus for abundance of flower and beauty of foliage. The flowers are pink, in large decompound panicles, the leaves the largest of all the species, oblong, wedge shaped, nearly sessile, entire, smooth, and reflexed. They are all evergreens, and the pots should be well drained. They are natives of the East Indies, and delight in a high temperature.

Aristolochias, Birth-wort. There are several of these belonging to the Hot-house, but none of them deserving particular observation, except A. labiosa. The leaves are reniform, roundish, cordate, and amplexicaule; the flower or corolla is of a curious construction, being incurved, and at the base swelled or saccate with a large lip, and all beautifully spotted; colour greenish brown. It is a climbing plant, and requires a strong heat.

Astrapoeas, three species. A. Wallichii is a celebrated plant in Europe, and a few specimens of it are in this country. It has scarlet unbellated flowers, with an involucre, has twenty-five stamens united into a tube, bearing the corolla with five petals; leaves roundish, cordate, accuminate, very large with persistent, ovate wavy stipules. The plant is of easy culture, and grows freely, wood very strong.

Areca, Cabbage-tree, ten species. They are a kind of palms, with large pinnated leaves, or properly fronds. In their indigenous state they are from six to forty feet high, but in the Hot-house they seldom exceed twenty feet. A. catechu is used in medicine. A. olerÁcea is cultivated extensively in the West Indies, and the tender part of the top is eaten by the natives. A. montana is most frequent in collections. There is no particular beauty in the flowers. They are all easily grown, if plenty of heat be given.

Brunsvigias are all large bulbs from the Cape of Good Hope, and will keep in the Green-house during winter, but are better where they can obtain a situation in the Hot-house. It is a splendid genus, containing about ten species. Some of the bulbs grow to an enormous size, and all of them while growing require a liberal supply of water; but when dormant it must be wholly withheld, and they should have large pots to make them grow and flower in perfection. B. multiflora, flowers scarlet and green; the leaves lay on the surface of the pot. B. latÌcoma, flowers pale purple. B. JosephinÆ has splendid rose coloured flowers, and is the most admired species of the genus: the foliage spreading, half erect, and glacous; flowers numerous, and in large umbels, on a stem two feet high, blooming successively; there is a variety that has striped flowers.

Several other species have been given to different genera. B. falcata is now Ammocharis falcata; B. marginata, now Imhofia; and B. cilliaris, is now Buphone cilliaris. They all flower in umbels, on stems from six inches to two feet; flowers lily-like with six petals.

Bambusa, Bamboo-cane, two species. Plants of very strong growth, and are used in the East Indies, where they are indigenous, for every purpose in the construction of huts, for furniture both domestic and rural, for fences, boats, boxes, paper, &c. It is frequently used as pipes to convey water. The species thus useful, is B. arundinacea, which grows to a great height. We do not mention it as interesting in beauty, but as a valuable plant, for the many useful purposes to which it is applied. It requires to be kept wet.

BanistÈrias, a genus of about fourteen climbing evergreen plants. Three of them are esteemed. B. fÚlgens, yellow flowers in racemose spikes, leaves subovate, and downy beneath. B. Chrisophylla has beautiful foliage, as if covered with a shining gold coloured dust; leaves large, oblong, acute. B. splÈndens, flowers in spikes of a yellow colour; foliage large and silvery like; the pots should be well drained.

BarringtÒnias, two species. B. speciÒsa has produced a great excitement amongst cultivators, and is one of the handsomest plants produced within the tropics. The leaves are large, oblong, acute, shining, with fleshy nerves, tinged with red; the flowers are large, full of stamens with four petals, opens in the evening and fades at sunrise; colour purple and white; grows freely in strong heat.

BrÔwneas, five species of splendid plants, but scarce in collections. B. coccÍnea has scarlet flowers in pendulous bunches, corolla semi-double, foliage bipinnate, in three pairs. B. rÒsa, mountain rose of Trinidad. B. grandicÉps is the finest of the genus, leaves bipinnated; leaflets cordate, accuminate, downy and pendulous, flowers rose colour, in large close heads. Drain the pots well.

CalathÈa zebrÌna, frequently known as MarÁnta zebrÌna, and now Phrynum zebrÌnum, is a plant unique in its appearance. The large elongated ovate leaves are beautifully striped with green and dark purple, and called Zebra plant. It has light blue flowers in ovate spikes, about the size of large pine cones. It is a herbaceous plant; but in the warmest part of the Hot-house retains its splendid foliage; requires a very liberal supply of water, and ought to be in every collection.

CÁnnas, about thirty species, several of them deserving cultivation both for flower and foliage; they are principally natives of the West Indies, and might all be easily obtained. The finest are C. gigÁntea, has large leaves and orange flowers; C. limbÀta, flowers scarlet and yellow; C. dÍscolor, has large cordate, accuminate leaves of a crimson colour, the flowers are scarlet; C. iridiflÒra, has large crimson nodding flowers, very different from any of the others, and the finest of the genus. They all, while in a growing state, require a liberal supply of water; and being herbaceous plants watering ought to be given up about the first of November, and renewed about the first of January, thus giving them a cessation which they require to flower freely; but when water is constantly given, which is the general plan in our collections, they continue to push weak shoots and few flowers.

CÁctus. This extensive genus is curious, grotesque, interesting, and varied in character and habit; is now divided into six distinct genera according to their natural appearance and habit. We will describe a few of each genus, none of which going under the name of CÁctus, we will give them the six following.

MamillÀrias, above twenty species, and are those which are covered with roundish bearded tubercles, and with small red and white flowers. M. coccÍnea; M. simplex; M. pusÍlla, and M. cÒnica, are good species, and will do well with water five or six times during summer.

MelocÁctus, seven species, and are those that are roundish with deep and many angles, with spines in clusters on the top of the angle. M. commÙnis, is the Turk's cap, named from having an ovate conate crown upon the top, from which proceed the small red flowers.

M. macrÁnthus, has large spines; M. pyramidÀlis, is a conical growing species. These require the same treatment as the last.

EchinocÁctus, about twenty species; are those that have many deep angles, and have a remarkable swelling, with each parcel of spines; E. gibbÒsus; E. crispÀtus; E. recÚrvus; are curious in appearance, with small white and purple flowers. These three genera in most collections are not well known specifically, but it is easy to discriminate which genus they are connected with.

CÈreus. This is the most magnificent genus with regard to the magnitude and beauty of the flowers, but not so closely allied. It takes in all those of a trailing or erect growing habit, having spines in clusters, solitary, or spineless. C. peruviÀnus and C. heptagÒnus, grow very erect, and to the height of thirty or forty feet in Peru and Mexico, where they plant them close together as fences, and they are in a few years impenetrable. C. flagellifÓrmus is a well known creeping free flowering species, has ten angles; will keep in a good Green-house, and produce in May and June a great number of blooms. The petals are of a fine pink and red colour; the tube of the flower is long, and will stand a few days in perfection, when others come out successively for the space of two months, and during their continuance make a brilliant appearance. C. grandiflÒrus is the celebrated "Night-blooming Cereus." The flowers are very large, beautiful, and sweet-scented. They begin to open about sun-down, and are fully expanded about eleven o'clock. The corolla, or rather calyx, is from seven to ten inches in diameter, the outside of which is a brown, and the inside a fine straw yellow colour; the petals are of the purest white, with the stamens surrounding the stile in the centre of the flower, which add to its lustre, and make it appear like a bright star. Its scent is agreeable, and perfumes the air to a considerable distance; but these beauties are of momentary duration. By sunrise they fade, and hang down quite decayed, and never open again.[E] One of these ought to be in every collection, and if trained up a naked wall will not occupy much room, and grow and flower profusely. They need very little water. C. speciosÍssimus has most beautiful large flowers, about six inches diameter; the outside petals are a bright scarlet, those of the inside a fine light purple. One flower lasts a few days, and a large plant will produce every year from ten to twenty flowers, blooming from May to August. It has flowered in some of our collections, and is highly esteemed. C. triangulÀris has the largest flower of the CacteÆ family; the bloom is of a cream colour, and about one foot in diameter. In its indigenous state, it produces a fine fruit called "Strawberry Pear," and is much esteemed in the West Indies as being slightly acid, and at the same time sweet, pleasant, and cooling. It seldom flowers. C. phyllanthoÍdes, once CÁctus speciÓsus, is one of the most profuse in flowering; the branches are ensate, compressed, and obovate, without spines; flowers of a pink colour, about four inches in diameter; the stamens as long as the corolla, with white anthers. It will keep well in a Green-house or Room. If in either of the two latter, give water only a few times during winter. This is becoming a very popular plant. C. JenkinsÒni is a magnificent hybrid from C. speciosÍssimus. The flowers are equally as large, and of a brilliant scarlet colour, with a profusion of pure white anthers; is greatly admired, and is only in a few collections. C. AckermÁnni is very similar to C. phyllanthoÍdes, flowering equally as profusely, the colour a bright scarlet, and the scarcest species of the genus that is worthy of notice. C. truncÀtus, branches truncated, flowers deep scarlet and tubular, from two to three inches in diameter; the stamens protrude from the corolla; the plant is of a dwarf growth and branched; when in flower it is quite a picture. It is said that there are free and shy flowering varieties of this species, but we doubt it; perhaps it is owing to the cultivation and soil.

[E] They may be preserved if cut off when in perfection, and put in spirits of wine, in a chrystal vase, made air tight. A plant flowered in our collection in May 1830, at 12 o'clock at noon—the only instance of the kind we ever heard of.

OpÚntias, about forty species, and are those whose branches are in joints flatly oblong, or ovate, spines solitary, or in clusters. The plants are not so desirable for beauty of flower as the species of the former genus, but many of them are remarkable for their strong grotesque and spiny appearance; besides several of the species are extensively cultivated for the Cochineal insect. The one most valued for that purpose, is O. cochinÍllifera, which has only small clusters of bristles upon the oblong ovate joints, and produces small red flowers; C. ficus Índica, is also used, but is very spiny.

PerÉskias. About four species, and those that are of a shrubby nature producing leaves; P. aculeÀta bears a fruit called "Barbadoes-gooseberry." The flowers are very small and simple, spines about half an inch long, leaves fleshy and elliptical.

The whole of the plants in the family of CacteÆ require very little water, and delight in a dry warm situation. They do not agree with frequent repotting; once in two or three years to young plants, and in five or six to those that are established, with the exception of the large, free flowering species, which should be repotted once in two years.

CoffÈa ArÁbica. It produces the celebrated coffee, and is a plant universally known in our collections, and of easy culture. The leaves are opposite, oblong, wavy and shining, the flowers white, of a grateful odour, but of short duration. There is a plant known as C. occidentalis, which is now TetramÈrium odoratÍssimum. It requires a great heat to grow well, therefore should be kept in the warmest part of the Hot-house. The flowers are white, in panicles, and larger than the common jasmine, and is very sweet-scented; leaves oblong, lanceolate, accuminate.

CallicÁrpas. About twelve species, and are generally admitted into collections, though of no particular interest or beauty, except in the bright purple berries they produce, which is rarely. The foliage is of a rugose, hoary appearance.

CarolÍneas. About six species of tender plants, with large digitate leaves, and of handsome growth. The flowers have numerous filaments, and are large and singular. C. insÍgnis has the largest and compactest blossoms; C. Àlba is the only one of the genus that has white flowers, all the others being red; C. prÍnceps and C. robÚsta are noble looking species, and are much esteemed. They require a good heat, with which they will grow freely.

CaryÒtas. A genus of palms. C. Ùrens is an admired species, produces flowers in long pendulous spikes, which are succeeded by strings of succulent globular berries. In its native state it produces a sweet liquor in large quantities, and no stronger than water.

CoccolÒbas, Sea-side grape. This genus is admired for its beautiful large foliage, which is oblong ovate, and cordate ovate; C. pubÉscens and C. latifÒlia are the finest species. They bear berries in clusters like the grape, but never come to perfection in artificial cultivation.

CÙphea MelvÍlla, is the only species of the genus that is particularly deserving of a situation, has lanceolate scabrous leaves, narrowed at each end, flowers tubular in a terminale whorl, colour scarlet and green. The plant must be well drained. It will flower from May to September.

CrÒtons. About twenty-eight species, few of them deserving cultivation; but the genus is celebrated for its beautiful C. pÌctus, leaves oblong-lanceolate, variegated with yellow, and stained with red, flowers small green, on axillary spikes. C. variagÀtus, variety latifÒlia, is finer than the original variagÀtus, the nerves in the leaves are yellow, and the leaves lanceolate, entire and smooth. To make them grow freely, give the warmest part of the Hot-house, and drain the pots well.

CÉrberas. About twelve species of strong growing trees, full of poisonous juice. C. thevÈtia is an elegant plant, with accumulate leaves, and large, nodding, yellow, solitary, fragrant flowers, proceeding from the axil; C. ahoÙai produces a nut which is deadly poison. C. odÀllam, once C. mÀnghas, has large star-like flowers, white, shaded with red. They are principally East India plants, and require great heat.

Cycas, four species, generally called Sago palm, as an English name. The plant that Sago is extracted from, belongs to another genus, (see SÀgus.) C. revolÙta is a well known palm, and will keep perfectly well in the Green-house. We have seen a beautiful specimen of it which is kept every winter in the cellar, but those that are kept so cool in winter only grow every alternate year, while those that are kept in the Hot-house grow every year, which shows that heat is their element. C. circinÀlis is a large growing species; the fronds are much longer, but not so close and thick. C. glaÙca is a fine species; the foliage is slightly glaucous. They require plenty of pot room, are much infested with the small white scaly insect, and ought to be frequently examined and carefully washed as prescribed in January.

CombrÈtums. Nine species of beautiful flowering climbing plants, standing in very high estimation. The leaves of the principal part of them are ovate, acute, flowers small but on large branches, the flowers all coming out on one side of the branch. They have a magnificent effect. C. Èlegans, red; C. formÒsum, red and yellow; C. pulchÉllum, scarlet; C. comÒsum has crimson flowers in tufts; C. purpÙreum is the most splendid of the genus. It was first cultivated in 1818, and so much admired, that the whole of the species as soon as introduced, was extravagantly bought up, and none of them has retained their character, except C. purpÙreum, which is now called PoÍvrea coccÍnea. The flowers are bright scarlet, in large branches, blooming profusely from April to September, and flower best in a pot. When planted in the ground it grows too much to wood, carrying few flowers. This plant ought to be in every Hot-house.

CrÀssula. This genus has no plants in it attractive in beauty. Several beautiful plants in our collections belong to RÒchea and KalosÁnthus. There is a strong growing succulent plant, known in our collections as C. falcÀta, which is R. falcÀta. It seldom flowers; the minor variety blooms profusely every year from May to August, and has showy scarlet flowers in terminale panicles. The plants known as C. coccÍnea and C. versÍcolor are now given to the genus KalosÁnthus. The flowers of the former are like scarlet wax, terminale and sessile; K. odoratÍssima has yellow terminale sweet-scented flowers. They require very little water, only a few times in winter, and about twice a week in summer; they are all desirable plants.

CÓryphas, (Large fan Palm,) five species of the most noble and magnificent of palms. C. ambraculÍfera, the fronds or leaves are palmate; in Ceylon, where the tree is indigenous, they are frequently found fifteen feet wide and twenty feet long. Knox says they will cover from fifteen to twenty men, and when dried will fold up in the shape of a rod, and can be easily carried about, and serve to protect them from the scorching sun. C. taliÈra, now TaliÈra bengalÉnsis, being stronger, is of great utility for covering houses. They do not grow to such immense extent in artificial cultivation, but require large houses to grow them.

CrÌnums, about one hundred species, chiefly stove bulbs, many of them beautiful. Those that are of great celebrity are C. cruÉntum, colour red; C. scÀbrum, crimson and white; C. amÀbile, purple and white; the neck of the bulb of the latter is long and easily distinguished from its purplish colour, and is considered the finest of the genus. Several specimens of it are in our collections. Their flowers are in umbels, on a stalk from one to three feet high; corolla funnel shaped; petals recurved. They require large pots to make them flower well, and when growing to be liberally supplied with water.

CyrtÀnthus, a genus of Cape bulbs, containing nine species, and will do very well in the Green-house, but we find the assistance of the Hot-house a great advantage. They are closely allied to CrÌnum. The tubes of the flowers are long and round, with various shades of orange, yellow, red, and green. C. odÒrus, C. striÁtus, C. oblÍquus, and C. vittÀtus, are the finest. When the bulbs are dormant, which will be from October to January, they should not get any water; before they begin to grow, turn the bulb out of the old earth, repotting it immediately. At this time they should be potted with the balls of earth entire, which will cause them to flower stronger.

Caryophyllus aromÁticus, is the only species, and the tree that produces cloves. The whole plant is aromatic, and closely allied to Myrtus; the flowers are in loose panicles, the leaves oblong, accuminate, entire. It is a fine evergreen. Pots must be well drained.

DillÈnias, three species of fine plants, with beautiful foliage. D. speciÒsa has produced considerable excitement in our collections. The leaves are elliptic, oblong, simply serrated, nerves deep; the flower is white, with five bold petals, centre filled with barren anthers; it has not been known to flower in America. D. scÁndens has ovate, simply serrated leaves, but is not known as to flower; it is a fine climber.

DracÆnas, Dragon-tree, about twelve species of Asiatic plants, varied in character. D. fÉrrea is plentiful in our collections, and will keep in the Green-house; but the foliage is not so well retained as when kept in the Hot-house; the leaves are lanceolate, acute, of a dark purple colour. D. frÀgrans, when in bloom, will scent the air for a considerable distance, leaves green and lanceolate. D. marginÀta is rare, yet it is to be seen in a few of our collections. D. strÍcta is now CharlwÒodia[F] strÍcta, flowers blush and in loose panicles. D. DrÁco is admired, and the most conspicuous of the genus.

ErÁnthemums, about ten species. E. pulchÉllum and E. bÍcolor are the finest of the genus; the former is in our collections, but miserably treated. The soil in which it is grown is too stiff and loamy, and it seldom gets enough of heat. The latter is indispensable to make it flower in perfection; therefore it should have the warmest part of the house, and it will produce flowers of a fine blue colour from January to September. The flowers of the latter are white and dark purple, with a few brown spots in the white; blooms from April to August. Drain the pots well, and give the plants little sun during summer.

EugÈnias, about thirty species, esteemed for their handsome evergreen foliage. This genus once contained a few celebrated species, which have been divided. (See JambÒsa.) The Allspice tree, known as Myrtus PimÉnta, is now E. PimÉnta; the leaves are ovate, lanceolate, and when broken have an agreeable scent. There are several varieties all of the same spicy fragrance. The plant is in very few of our collections. E. frÀgrans is sweet scented; the flowers are on axillary peduncles; leaves ovate, obtuse.

EuphÓrbia (spurg), a genus of plants disseminated over every quarter of the globe; a few are beautiful, many grotesque, and several the most worthless weeds on the earth. There are about two hundred species, and from all of them, when probed, a thick milky fluid exudes. Those of the tropics are the most curious, and very similar in appearance to CÁctus, but easily detected by the above perforation. There is a magnificent species in our collections, which was lately introduced from Mexico.[G] It goes under the name of E. heterophylla. The flowers of the whole genus are apetalous, and the beauty is in the bracteÆ; of the species alluded to the bracteÆ is bright crimson, very persistent, and above six inches in diameter, when well grown. The plant requires a strong heat, or the foliage will become yellow and fall off. We question whether this species is nondescript or as above. It is a brilliant ornament to the Hot-house three fourths of the year, and always during winter, and should have a situation in every tropical collection.

ErythrÌnas (Coral tree), a genus containing about thirty species of leguminose, scarlet-flowering plants. Several species are greatly esteemed for their beauty and profusion of flowers, which in well established plants are produced in long spikes at the end of the stems and branches. E. CorallodÉndrum blooms magnificently in the West Indies, but in our collections has never flowered. Perhaps if it was kept dry during its dormant season, which is from November to January, and when growing greatly encouraged, it might produce flowers. E. speciÒsa is a splendid flowerer, leaves large, ternated, and prickly beneath; stem prickly. E. pubÉscens is valued for its large peculiar brown pubescent leaves.

In regard to E. herbÀcea, which is a native of the Carolinas, and frequently treated as a Hot-house plant, it is our opinion that it would be more perfectly grown if planted about the first of this month in the garden; and when growing, if well supplied with water, it would flower from July to September. About the first of November lift the roots and preserve them in half dry earth, in the same place with the DÁhlias. E. laurifÒlia and E. crÍsta-gÁlli are likewise often treated as Hot-house plants, and in such situations they cast prematurely their first flowers, by the confined state of the air. They will keep in perfect preservation during winter in a dry cellar, half covered with earth, or entirely covered with half dry earth; consequently, the best and easiest method of treatment, is to plant them in the garden about the first of May, and when growing, if the ground becomes dry, give them frequent waterings. They will flower profusely three or four times in the course of summer.

We freely recommend the last species to all our patrons, confident that it will give ample satisfaction, both in profusion of flower and beauty of colour. The soil they are to be planted into should be according to that prescribed in the list; or if they are kept in pots, they must be enlarged three or four times, when they are in a growing state, to make them flower perfectly; otherwise they will be diminutive.

FÌcus, Fig-tree, a genus containing above fifty Hot-house species, besides several that belong to the Green-house; greatly admired for the beauty of their foliage. A few of them are deciduous, and all of the easiest culture. We have seen plants of F. elÁstica hung in the back of the Hot-house, without the smallest particle of earth, their only support being sprinklings of water every day. F. BrÁssii is the finest looking species that has come under our observation; the leaves are very large, shining, cordate, accuminate; nerves strong and white. As the beauty of these plants is entirely in the foliage and habit, we will select the best of them in the list to which we refer.

GÆrtnÈra racemÒsa, is a large climbing woody shrub, with pinnated leaves, leaflets ovate, lanceolate, flowers white, five petaled, beautifully fringed; blooms in dense panicles. When the plants are allowed to climb, they do not flower freely; but if closely cut in, they will flower every year in great profusion, after the plants are well established. It is now called HiptÀge MadablÒta.

GeissomÈria longiflÒra. This is a new genus, and closely allied to RuÉllia. The species alluded to, is a free flowerer, blooming from May to August, in close spikes of a scarlet colour; leaves opposite, ovate, elongate, and shining; the plants must be well drained, and in summer kept from the direct influence of the sun.

GardÈnias, a genus containing about seventeen species, several of them very popular in our collections, going under the name of Cape Jasmine, which do well in the Green-house, (see May.) The species requiring this department, and deserving attention, are G. campanulÀta, of a soft woody nature, with ovate, accuminate leaves; flowers of a straw colour, and solitary; G. amoena, the flowers are white, tinged with crimson, terminale and solitary; G. costÀta, admired for its beautiful ribbed foliage, G. lÙcida has a handsome, ovate, accuminate, shining foliage; flowers white and solitary. They require to have the pots well drained.

HeritiÈra littÓralis, Looking-glass plant. This plant is unisexual, has beautiful large, ovate, veiny leaves; the flowers are small, red, with male and female on the same plant, but different flowers. It requires a strong heat, and plenty of pot room. How the English name becomes applicable to it, we are not acquainted.

HibÍscus. This genus affords many fine species and varieties of plants for the Hot-house, besides others for every department of the garden. The most popular in our collections for the Hot-house, is H. RÒsa sinÉnsis, with its varieties, which are magnificent, and flower profusely, from April to September. The single or original species is seldom seen in cultivation; the varieties are H. RÒsa sinÉnsis rÙbro plÉnus, double red; H. R. S. cÁrnea plÈnus, double salmon; H. R. S. variegÀtus, double striped; H. R. S. flÁvo-plÈnus, double buff; H. R. S. lÙtea plÈnus, double yellow, or rather sulphur. The plants grow freely, and produce their flowers three or four inches of diameter, from the young wood; the leaves are ovate, accuminate, smooth, entire at the base and coarsely toothed at the end. All the varieties are of the same character, and highly deserving of a situation in every collection. There is said to be a double white variety, which we doubt; it is not in artificial cultivation. H. mutÀbilis flÒre plÈno is a splendid plant of strong growth, and will, when well established, flower abundantly, if the wood of last year is cut to within a few eyes of the wood of the previous year; the flowers are produced on the young wood, and come out a pale colour, and change to bright red, and about the size of a garden Provins rose; leaves downy, cordate, angular, five-lobed, accuminate, and slightly toothed. H. lilliiflÒrus, is a new highly esteemed species; the flowers are various in colour, being pink, blush, red, purple, and striped. We have not seen it in flower, but had its character verbally, from a respectable cultivator. The leaves vary in character, but are generally cordate, crenate, accuminate; the petioles are brown, and the whole slightly hirsute; is deciduous, and requires to be kept in the warmest part of the house.

HÓyas, Wax-plant, seven species. All of them are climbing succulents, requiring plenty of heat and little water. H. carnÒsa is the finest flowering species of the genus, and known in our collections as the wax plant; the leaves are green and fleshy; the flowers are mellifluous, five parted, and in pendulous bunches, slightly bearded, and have every appearance of a composition of the finest wax; of a blush colour. H. crassifÒlia has the best looking foliage, and the flowers are white. The former will keep in the Green-house, but will not flower so profusely.

HernÁndias, Jack-in-a-box. The species are rare, except H. sonÒra, which is an elegant looking plant, when well grown; the leaves are peltate, cordate, accuminate, smooth; flowers white, and in panicles; the fruit a nut. The English name is said to have been given, in allusion to the small flowers and large leaves of the plant. A great heat is required to grow it well.

IpomÆas, a genus of tropical climbing plants, nearly allied to ConvolvÚlus, but of greater beauty. I. paniculÀta has large purple flowers in panicles, with large palmated smooth leaves. I. JÁlapa is the true jalap of the druggists, but not worthy of any other remark. I. grandiflÒra, large white flowers, with acute petals; leaves large, cordate, ovate. I. pulchÉlla has flowers of a handsome violet colour. They are all easily cultivated. It is said that I. tuberÒsa is much used in the West Indies to cover arbours, and will grow three hundred feet in one season; the flowers are purple striped with yellow, leaves palmated. We are not certain but the roots of this kind may be kept like the sweet potato, and become a useful ornament to our gardens.

IxÒras, a genus of fine flowering plants, and does extremely well in our collections in comparison to the state they are grown in England. The genus specifically is much confused amongst us, either from error originating with those who packed them for this country, or after they have arrived. I. purpÙrea, leaves oblong, ovate, blunt; flowers crimson; it is now called I. obavÀta. I. crocÀta, leaves oval, lanceolate, narrowing towards the stem, smooth, underside of the leaf the nerves are very perceptible; flowers saffron coloured. I. rÒsea, leaves large, regular, oblong, a little acute, very distant on the wood, centre nerve strong; flowers rose coloured in large corymbs, branching: I. BandhÙca, leaves very close to the stem, ovate, accuminate; nerves straight, middle nerve stronger than any other of the genus; flowers scarlet, corymbs crowded. I. BlÁnda, leaves small, lanceolate, ovate; flowers blush, cymes branching in three. I. dichotÌma, leaves largest of the genus, ovate, accuminate, undulate, footstalk 3/8 of an inch long; whereas none of the leaves of the other species has footstalks of any length. It is now called I. undulÀta, flowers are white. I. grandiflÒra, leaves ovate, elongate, sessile; flowers in crowded corymbs, and scarlet; is called, I. coccÍnea in the Botanical Magazine, by which it is known in our collections, and is the same as I. strÍcta. I. flÁmmea and I. speciÒsa, leaves oblong, subsessile; flowers scarlet, in round spreading dense corymbs. I. fÚlgens, same as I. longifÒlia and I. lanceolÀta; foliage glossy; flowers scarlet. I. PavÉtta, the flowers are white, and said to be sweet-scented, the leaves of all the species are opposite; there are a few other species that we are not thoroughly acquainted with, but have been thus explicit to prevent error as far as possible in this beautiful genus. They are all evergreen, low growing shrubs; the plants grow best in Jersey black sandy earth, but flower most abundantly with half loam.

JacarÁndas, a genus of beautiful shrubs, containing five species, with BignÔnia-like blue or purple flowers. I. mimÒsifolia and I. filicifÒlia are the finest. The former has blue, and the latter purple flowers; in loose branching panicles. They are evergreen, and easy of culture.

JambÒsas, about twelve species, which have been principally taken from EugÈnia, and contain its finest plants, and is a splendid genus of evergreen shrubs. E. JÁmbos is now JambÒsa vulgÀris, which flowers and fruits freely in our Hot-houses. The fruit is about an inch in diameter, eatable, and smelling like a rose, hence called "Rose Apple." The petals of all the species are simple, and may rather be considered the calyx; the beauty of the flowers is in the many erect spreading stamens, either straw, white, rose, or green colour. J. malaccÉnsis, Malay Apple, is greatly esteemed for the delightful fragrance of its fruit. We frequently see J. purpurÁscens, which is a native of the West Indies, going under J. m. which is an Asiatic species, with white flowers and entire oblong leaves; whereas the leaves of J. p. are small, ovate, accuminate, young shoots and leaves purple. J. macrophylla, white, and J. amplexicaÙlis, green, have very large oblong, lanceolate leaves, and is of a strong woody habit. They are all easy of culture.

JasmÌnum, Jasmine, is a favourite genus of shrubs, for the exquisite fragrance of its flowers, of which none are more delightful than J. SÀmbac or Arabian Jasmine. There are two other varieties of it, J. S. mÚltiplex, semi-double; and J. S. trifÒliatum, Double Tuscan Jasmine. The latter requires a great heat to make it grow and flower freely. We suspect there is another variety in cultivation. J. hirsÙtum has cordate downy leaves; flowers many, in terminale, sessile umbels. J. paniculÀtum, white, flowering in terminale panicles from March to November; leaves smooth, oval, obtusely accuminate; plant scarce. J. simplicifÒlium is in our collections under the name of J. lucidum; plant spreading; leaves oblong and shining. There are several other species, all with white flowers, and generally easy of culture.

JÁtropha, Physic-nut, is a genus of six strong growing shrubs, natives of the West Indies. J. multifida and I. pandurÆfÒlia have the handsomest foliage, and both have scarlet flowers; the appearance of the foliage of this genus is the only object; the flowers are small, in coarse disfigured panicles, and several of the species have not been known to flower in artificial cultivation. The seeds of J. cÚrcas are often received from the West Indies; the leaves are cordate, angular, and smooth. J. manihot, now Manihot cannabÌna, is the Cassada root, the juice of which, when expressed, is a strong poison. They are all easy of culture: want of strong heat in winter will make them cast their leaves, but do them no other injury.

JustÍcia. A few species of this genus are fine showy hot-house plants. J. coccÍnea has large terminale spikes of scarlet flowers, blooming from December to March, and a very desirable plant, of easy culture, and should be in every collection; it is apt to grow spindly, if not kept near the glass. I. picta, with its varieties; I. lÚcida and I. formÓsa, are fine shrubby species. I. speciÒsa is a beautiful purple flowering herbaceous plant.

KÆmpfÈria, an Asiatic genus of tuberose rooted plants; none of them in our collections, except K. rotÚnda; the flowers come up a few inches above the pot, without the leaves, in April and May and frequently sooner; they are purple and light blue, partially streaked and spotted; leaves large, oblong, purplish coloured beneath. The roots when dormant ought to be kept in the pot without watering, otherwise they will not flower freely. No bulbs or strong tuberose rooted plants, will flower in perfection if kept moist when they are not growing.

LantÀna, a genus of twenty species, all free flowering shrubs; the flowers are small, in round heads blooming from the axils, in yellow, orange, pink, white, and changeable colours; the plants are of such a rough straggling growth, that they are not esteemed. There are four or five species in our collections. They will not bear a strong fumigation; therefore, when the Hot-house is under that operation, they must be set down in the pathway, or other low part in the house.

LatÀnias. This genus contains three species of handsome palms. L. borbÒnica is one of the finest of the PalmÆ, not growing to great magnitude; the leaves or fronds are plaited flabelliform, leaflets smooth at the edge, footstalk spiny, and the plant spreading. L. rÙbra, fronds same as the former, but leaflets more divided and serrulate; footstalk unarmed; foliage reddish. L. glaucophylla, same as L. rÙbra, only the foliage glaucous. They are all valuable plants, and are obtained by seed from the East Indies. They require plenty of pot room.

LaÚrus. This genus, though of no beauty in flower, is generally admired in collections for its fine evergreen foliage, and aromatic or spicy flavour, and several trees are important in medicine. The most esteemed are given to a genus named CinnamÒmum, as has been observed in the Green-house, (see March.) L. ChlorÓxylon is the Cogwood of Jamaica. L. PÉrsea is now PÉrsea gratÍssima, Alligator-pear, a fruit about the size of a large pear, and greatly esteemed in the West Indies. The plant is generally known in our collections. C. vÉrum is the true Cinnamon of commerce.

The part taken is the inside of the bark when the tree is from five to eighteen years old. The leaves are three-nerved, ovate, oblong; nerves vanishing towards the point, bright green above, pale beneath, with whitish veins. This plant ought to be kept in the warmest part of the Hot-house. C. cÁssia, is frequently given under the former name, but when compared may be easily detected by the leaves being more lanceolate, and a little pubescent. They both make handsome plants, but require great heat. Drain the pots well of the delicate sorts.

MagnÍfera, Mango tree. There are two species. M. Índica is in our collections, and bears a fruit which is so highly esteemed in the East Indies, as to be considered preferable to any other except very fine pine apples. The leaves are lanceolate, and from six to eight inches long, and two or more broad. The flowers are produced in loose bunches at the end of the branches, but of no beauty, and have to be artificially impregnated, or it will scarcely produce fruit. The shell is kidney-shaped, and of a leathery, crustaceous substance. They contain one seed, and in their indigenous state are more juicy than an apple. Drain the pots well, as the roots are apt to get sodden from moisture. The other species goes under the name of oppositifÒlia, but we question if it is not only a variety, for it has every character of the one just described.

MelÀstoma, was once an extensive genus, on which the natural order MelastomaceÆ is founded; but is now much divided into other genera contained in the natural tribe MicomeÆ. There are about thirteen species remaining in the genus. They now display great unity of character, and many of them may be considered very ornamental. The finest are M. malabÁthrica, rose-coloured; M. sanguÍnea, lilac; M. decÉmfida, purple; M. pulverulÉnta, red; and M. Áspera, rose. There is a plant in several of our collections known as M. purpÙrea and M. tetragÒna, which is OssÆa purpurÁscens; leaves ovate, lanceolate, accuminate, five-nerved, pilose; the footstalk and nerves underside of the leaf covered with brown hairs; stem four-sided; flowers purple. All the species are easy of culture. M. nepalÉnsis is a Green-house plant.

MalpÍghia, (Barbadoes-cherry,) about eighteen species, all beautiful evergreen trees or shrubs. They are easily distinguished by having bristles on the under side of the leaves. These bristles are fixed by the centre, so that either end of it will sting. We are not aware of any other plant being defended in the manner. M. Ùrens has oblong ovate leaves with decumbent stiff bristles; flowers pink. M. aquifÒlia has lanceolate, stiff, spiny leaves, and we think the most beautiful foliage of the genus. M. fucÀta has elliptical shining leaves, with lilac flowers. M. glÁbra, leaves ovate, entire, smooth; flowers purple. They all have five rounded clawed petals. The last species is cultivated in the West Indies for its fruit. The pots must be well drained.

MÁrica, a genus of Hot-house plants, closely allied to Iris, between which there is no distinction in the leaves. The flowers of M. cÆrÙlea are beautifully spotted with light and dark blue, the scape many flowered. M. SabÌni has flowers similar, but not so dark in colour. M. NorthiÀna has splendid white and brown spotted flowers, spathe two flowered. These plants when growing require a liberal supply of water, and to be greatly encouraged by frequent potting to flower well.

MÙsa (Plantain-tree), contains eight species, and is greatly esteemed in the East and West Indies for the luscious sweet flavour of its fruit, which can be converted into every delicacy in the domestic cookery of the country. M. paradisÌÆa is the true plantain tree, has a soft herbaceous stalk, 15 or 20 feet high, with leaves from 5 to 7 feet long, and about 2 feet wide. M. sapiÉntum is the true Banana-tree; habit and character same as the former, except it has a spotted stem, and the male flowers are deciduous. The pulp of the fruit is softer, and the taste more luscious. M. rosÀcea, M. coccÍnea, and M. chinÈnsis, are most esteemed in artificial cultivation for their flowers, and being smaller in growth. They all require a very liberal supply of water when growing. They do best to be planted in the soil, where there can be a small corner of the Hot-house set apart for the purpose. They will be ornamental, but if kept in pots they will never attain any degree of perfection.

NepÉnthes (Pitcher plant). There are two species of this plant. N. distillatÒria is an esteemed and valuable plant in European collections. The leaves are lanceolate and sessile; from their extremity there is a spiral, attached to which are lublar inflated appendages that are generally filled with water, which appears to be confined within them by a lid, with which the appendages are surmounted; hence the name of pitcher plant. We have never observed these lids close again when once open. Writers have called it a herbaceous plant, but it is properly a shrub, never dying to the ground, having a continuation of extension. The pot in which it grows should be covered with moss, and the roots liberally supplied with water every day. It delights to be in a marshy state. The flowers are small and in long spikes.

PancrÀtium is a genus of Hot-house bulbs, and now only contains five species. They are all free-flowering. Several of them are handsome and fragrant. P. MarÍtimum and P. verecÚndum are the finest; the flowers are white, in large umbels; petals long, recurved, and undulate. P. littorÀlis, P. speciÒsum, and P. caribÆum, are now given to the genus HymenocÁllis, and are fine flowering species. Care must be taken not to give them much water while dormant. The soil ought at that time to be in a half dry state. They are in flower from May to August.

PolyspÒra axillÀris, once called CamÉllia axillÀris, though in appearance it has no characteristic of a CamÉllia, and has been frequently killed in the Green-house by being too cold for its nature; leaves oblong, obovate, towards the extremity serrulate. The leaves on the young wood are entire. Flowers white; petals a little notched. It is worthy of a situation in every collection.

PassiflÒra, "Passion-Flower, so named on account of its being supposed to represent in the appendages of its flower the Passion of Jesus Christ." There are about fifty species, all climbing plants, that belong to the Hot-house. Many are of no ordinary beauty; a few species are odoriferous; others bear edible fruits, though not rich in flavour. P. alÀta is in our collections, and greatly admired; the flowers are red, blue, and white, beautifully contrasted, and flower profusely in pots. P. racemÒsa, has red flowers, and one of the most profuse in flowering. P. cÆrÙleo-racemÒsa, purple and red, and by many thought to be the finest of the genus. P. quadrangulÀris has beautiful red and white flowers. The plant is in several collections, but has seldom flowered; it requires to be planted in the ground to make it flower freely, and it will also produce fruit. P. filamentÒsa is white and blue, and a good flowerer. P. picturÀta is a scarce and beautiful variously coloured species. There are many other fine species, but these are the most esteemed sorts; and when well established will flower profusely from May to August. They are desirable in every collection, and will take only a small space to hold them, by training the vines up the rafters of the Hot-house.

PandÀnus, Screw Pine. There are above twenty species in this genus, several of them very interesting, but none so greatly admired as P. odoratÍssimus. The leaves in established plants are from four to six feet long, on the back and edges spiny; are spreading, imbricated, and embracing the stem, and placed in three spiral rows upon it. The top soon becomes heavy when the plant throws out prongs one, two, or three feet up the stem in an oblique descending direction, which take root in the ground, and thus become perfectly supported. It is cultivated in Japan for its delightful fragrance, and it is said, "of all the perfumes, it is by far the richest and most powerful." P. Ùtilis, red spined. We question this species, and are inclined to believe that it is the former, only when the plants are newly raised from seed, the spines and leaves are red, changing to green as they become advanced in age. The plants are easy of culture, and will grow almost in any soil.

PterospÉrmum, five species of plants that have very curiously constructed flowers, of a white colour, and fragrant; the foliage is of a brown rusty nature, and before expansion silvery-like. P. suberifÒlium is in several of our collections, and esteemed. P. semisagittÀtum has fringed bractÆa; leaves oblong, accuminate, entire, sagittate on one side.

PlumÈrias, above twenty species. Plants of a slow growth, robust nature, and are deciduous. The foliage is greatly admired. The plants are shy to flower, but are brilliant in colour. P. acuminÀta, has lanceolate, acute leaves; flowers corymbose and terminale. P. trÍcolor has oblong, acute, veiny leaves; corolla red, yellow, and white. This and P. rÙbra are the finest of the genus. They ought not to get any water while not in a growing state.

Phoenix, Date-palm, about eight species, principally Asiatic plants. The foliage is not so attractive as many others of the palm family, but it is rendered interesting by producing a well known fruit called Date. P. dactylÍfera will do very well in a common Green-house. In Arabia, Upper Egypt, and Barbary, it is much used in domestic economy. P. paludÓsa has the most beautiful foliage, and the best habit. The flowers are dioecious.

RoscÒea. A genus of about five species, all pretty, but not much known. R. purpÙrea has been introduced into our collections, and is the finest of the genus. The flowers are light purple, large, and in terminale sheaths at the top of the stem. R. spicÀta and R. capitÀta are both fine species, with blue flowers. They are all herbaceous, with strong half tuberous roots, requiring little water while dormant, and a liberal supply when growing.

RuÉllia. There are a few species, very pretty free flowering plants, of easy culture. R. formÒsa, flowers long, of a fine scarlet colour; plant half shrubby. R. fulgÍda has bright scarlet flowers on axillary long stalked fascicles. R. persicifÒlia, with unequal leaves, and light blue flowers, is now called R. anisophylla; and the true one has oblong, wavy, leaves, deeply nerved, petioles long; flowers yellow, sessile, in axillary and terminale heads, stem erect. One healthy plant will be frequently in flower from January to June. This species ought to be in every collection, both for its beauty of flower and foliage.

RhÁpis, a genus of palms, that will grow very freely with heat, and room at the roots. R. flabellifÓrmis is an erect growing palm, with a spreading head. It is a native of China.

ThunbÉrgia, a genus containing six climbing plants, of a half shrubby nature. Some of them have a fragrant odour. T. coccÍnea, red; T. grandiflÒra, blue; T. frÀgrans, sweet-scented; T. alÀta, has pretty buff and purple flowers, which are in great profusion. We are not certain but the latter will make a beautiful annual in the Flower-garden. It seeds freely, and from the time of sowing until flowering is about two months, if the heat is brisk. If sown in May, they will bloom from July until killed by frost.

SÀgus, Sago-palm. We are of opinion that the true palm from which the sago of the shops is produced, has not been introduced into our collections. It is very rare in the most extensive collections of Europe, but is not so fine as the one we have under the Sago, which is placed in the natural order of CycadeÆ; and Sagus is in that of PalmÆ. The finest of this genus is S. vinÍfera and S. RÚmphii. They grow to a great height; even in artificial cultivation they may be seen from ten to twenty-five feet. We have not introduced them here for their beauty, but to prevent error.

SolÁndra, a genus of four species, remarkable for the extraordinary size of their flowers, and are considered beautiful. S. grandiflÒra and S. viridiflÒra are the two best. The plants will bloom best if they are restricted in pot room, and are only introduced as being worthy of cultivation. If they are repotted once in two or three years, it is sufficient, except where the plants are small and want encouragement.

StrophÁnthus, a small genus of beautiful tropical shrubs. The segments of the corolla are curiously twisted before expansion. S. divÉrgens is a neat spreading shrub, with yellow flowers, a little tinged with red; the petals are about four inches long, undulate, lanceolate. S. dichÓtomus is rose coloured, corolla funnel shaped. The plants will flower freely in a strong moist heat. Drain the pots well.

SwietÈnia (mahogany-tree), the wood of which is celebrated in cabinet-work. S. MahÓgoni, common. This tree varies much in general appearance according to soil and situation. The leaves are pinnated in four pairs; leaflets ovate, lanceolate; flowers small, white, in axillary panicles. S. fubrifÙga, leaves pinnated, in four pairs; leaflets elliptical; flowers white, in terminale panicles. The wood of the last is the most durable of any in the East Indies. They are fine plants, and require heat and pot room to produce flowers.

TecÒma, a genus of plants closely allied to BignÒnia, and are free-flowering; several of them much esteemed. T. mÓllis, T. digitÀta, and T. splÈndida, are the most beautiful of those that belong to the Hot-house. They have large orange coloured, tubular, inflated, ringent flowers, in loose panicles. There is a plant known in our collections as BignÒnia stÁns, which is now T. stÀns; has pinnated leaves, with oblong, lanceolate, serrated, leaflets; flowers in simple terminale, raceme, and of a yellow colour, and sometimes known by Ash-leaved BignÒnia. It will always have a sickly aspect, if not well encouraged in light rich soil. Drain the pots well, as much moisture disfigures the foliage.

TabernÆmontÁna, a genus of little beauty, except for one or two species. A plant known in some collections as NÈrium coronÀrium, is now, and properly, T. coronÀria. The variety, flÒre plÈno, is the one most deserving of culture, and will flower profusely from May to August; the flowers are double white, fragrant, and divaricating. The plant will lose its foliage if not kept in a strong heat; therefore place it in the warmest part of the Hot-house. T. densiflÒra is a fine species, but very rare. Drain all the plants well, and keep them in the shade during summer.

Thrinax parviflÒra, is a fine dwarf palm of the West Indies, with palmated fronds, plaited with stiff, lanceolate segments. The plant is of easy cultivation, and will grow in any soil.

ZÀmia, a genus of plants in the natural order of CycadeÆ. Several species of them are admired. Z. mÉdia, Z. furfurÀcea, Z. tÉnuis, Z. integrifÒlia, are the most showy that belong to the Hot-house. The whole genus is frequently kept in this department. They are all plants of a slow growth, and the beauty is entirely in the pinnated fronds, with from ten to forty pairs of leaflets. The pots must be well drained.

Those genera of plants which we have enumerated under the head of repotting in this or next month, are composed of the finest Hot-house plants that have come under our observation. There are perhaps a few of them that are not to be found in the United States, or even on our continent; but the great object, in a choice collection of plants, is to have the finest from all parts of the known world. There are many plants whose nature does not require much support from soil, which is frequently observed in those that are mentioned. And there are many hundreds of plants desirable for beauty, ornament, and curiosity, which are not specified, our limits not permitting such an extended detail. Those whose nature agrees better with repotting at other periods, shall be noticed, especially those that are in the collections of the country. We have previously observed, that plants ought not to be flooded with water when newly potted, as it saturates the soil before the roots have taken hold of it; and that the best draining for pots is small gravel or potshreds broken fine. We wish it to be understood that when plants are repotted, any irregular branch or shoot should be lopped off, that cannot be tied in to advantage. And repotting may take place either before or after the plants are exposed to the open air, according to convenience.

OF BRINGING OUT THE HOT-HOUSE PLANTS.

Where the Hot-house is very crowded with plants, the best method to have them exposed without danger is, to take out those of the hardiest nature first, that have no tender shoots upon them, thereby thinning the house gradually. This may be done from the 16th to the 20th of the month, which will admit of a free circulation of air amongst those that remain. All may be exposed from the 24th to the 28th of the month. This is a general rule, though in some seasons there maybe exceptions. Having previously given all the air possible to the house, that no sudden transition take place, which would make the foliage brown, and otherwise materially injure the plants, choose calm days for the removing of them.

There are few plants while in pots that agree with the full sun upon them; or if the plants receive the sun, the pots and roots ought not. The best situation for them is on the north side of a fence, wall, house, or other building, where they are excluded from the mid-day sun, and they should stand on boards or gravel, with the tallest at the back, firmly, tied to a rail or some other security, to prevent them from being overturned by high winds. A stage erected, where it is practicable, for the reception of the smaller plants, and they set thinly and regularly thereon, is preferable to crowding them with the taller sorts. And it may be desired to have some of the plants plunged in the garden through the flower borders. Of those that are so treated, the pots must be plunged to the brim, and regularly turned round every two weeks, to prevent the roots from running into the earth. If the roots were allowed to do so, it might for the present strengthen the plant, but ultimately would prove injurious.

Where a sufficiency of shade cannot be obtained, it would be advisable to go to the expense of a very thin awning, that would not exclude the light, but merely the powerful rays of the sun, attending to roll it up every evening. Plants will keep in beautiful order by the above method, which amply repays for the trouble or expense. Avoid putting plants under trees; comparatively few thrive in such situations.

When they are thus all exposed to the open air, it will be very little trouble to give them a gentle syringing every evening when there is no rain, and continue your usual examinations for insects: when they appear resort to the prescribed remedies. Green-fly will not affect them, but perhaps the thrips. Give regular supplies of water to their roots every evening, and some will require it in the morning, especially small pots.

SUCCULENTS.

These plants are habituated to exposed dry, hot, situations in their indigenous state; and an aspect, where they would have the full influence of the sun, is the best, giving them water two or three times a week.