CRIMSON MONARDA. 109 



The stalks and foliage of this plant resemble that 

 of mint, excepting that the centre rib of the leaves 

 is of a fine crimson, and the circle of leaves wliicli 

 supports the flowers are beautifully shaded with 

 a colour between that of the amethyst stone and the 

 garnet. 



This plant, which we particularly recommend 

 to be placed in the foreground of the shrubbery, 

 on account of the beautiful contrast which its rich 

 dyes make with the green foliage of the laurel and 

 other shrubs, loves a soft loamy soil, not too much 

 exposed to the meridian sun. It is easily propa- 

 gated by seed, which should be sown in the au- 

 tumn, and it is also increased by parting the roots 

 like mint or balm; if the branches are pegged 

 down in the manner of layers, it will also take root. 

 It is desirable not to let young plants flower tlie 

 first year, as by cutting down the flowering stalks 

 the roots become greatly strengthened for succeed- 

 ing seasons. 



The Crimson Monarda will keep fresh for a 

 great length of time in water, ornamenting the 

 vase and perfuming the apartment by a refreshing 

 odour ; we therefore give it as the emblem of steady 

 virtue. 



The Scarlet Monarda, or Oswego Tea, Monarda 

 Didyma, was introduced from North America by 

 Mr. Peter Collinson, in the year 1744. This^ 



