58 MISSOURI BOTANICAL GARDEN BULLETIN 
FLORAL DISPLAY FOR APRIL 
The display of bulb plants, which formed the chief 
feature in the floral house during the first two weeks of the 
month, in general fell somewhat short of expectations, owing 
to the fact that many bulbs failed to produce flowers. A 
similar complaint has come from many parts of the country, 
and it appears that the bulbs were overheated in the ocean 
voyage from Holland. Representatives from the Dutch 
bulb growers are now in this country in the interest of an 
adjustment. The hyacinths, however, did exceedingly well, 
and together with Easter lilies, calla lilies, tulips, and a large 
variety of antirrhinums, or snapdragons, made a splendid 
showing. 
During the latter part of the month, and in early May, 
large numbers of the fancy-leaved caladiums will be shown. 
These plants, while having only an insignificant flower, are 
conspicuous because of their large, delicate, and often 
Nanos | and brilliantly colored leaves. As house plants, 
these caladiums are little known, principally because they 
require an even ey oe hy an abundance of moisture, and 
but very little sunlight. In addition, a quantity of flowering 
plants of tobacco hybrids will be shown. The flowers of the 
latter plants have a tendency to close during midday, and 
are therefore best seen in the morning and late afternoon. 
About two thousand plants of fuchsia are coming into 
flower and will form a conspicuous display toward the end 
of the month. The flowers of these plants are noteworthy 
because of the frequent presence within the same bloom of 
what might be called a “color clash,”—a characteristic 
seldom met with in other flowers. The Garden collection is 
a choice one, containing many varieties not previously shown 
in St. Louis. In addition, the little blue dais (Felicia 
amelloides), the display of which last year wait consider- 
able favorable comment, will be shown during the month. 
In front of the new conservatories, within the main 
entrance, and skirting the water garden and paths here 
and there, are thousands of blooming tulips, narcissus, etc., 
which, with favorable weather conditions, are e to 
last until about the first week in May. Among the other 
outdoor plants at present in flower should be mentioned the 
magnolias, with their large and beautiful though somewhat 
ephemeral blooms. 
