iSyi.] PEACH-TREES ON EXTENSION SYSTEM. 321 



CYPRIPEDIUM CONCOLOR. 



This is one of the most distinct and beautiful of the Cypripediums, and 

 one which ought to be in every collection of this interesting genus of 

 orchidaceous plants. Our illustration, which is from a photograph of 

 a beautiful coloured drawing which appeared in Curtis's 'Botanical 

 Magazine ' a few years ago, and which was taken from one of the first 

 specimens which flowered in this country, will serve to show its distinct- 

 ness and very neat compact habit. It is described in the ' Botanical 



Fig. 17. — C\PRiiii>iLM Conculou. 

 Magazine ' as " differing entirely from all the species of that extensive 

 genus at present known. Its leaves are compactly arranged, and being 

 beautifully mottled on their upper surface, and of a rich reddish purple 

 below, they contrast agreeably with the pale primrose tint of the flowers, 

 two of which are borne on a short hairy scape." It is a native of Moul- 

 mein, and grows on limestone rock ; but it thrives well in rough fibry 

 peat and Sphagnum. For further cultural notes we refer to the excellent 

 paper on Cypripedium culture which appeared in our May number. 



PEACH-TREES ON THE EXTEK"SION SYSTEM. 



It is worth while to discuss whether it is better to encourage strong 

 vigorous growth on young Peach-trees under glass and early cropping, 

 or little or no crops at all and hard pruning, in order to lay the foun- 

 dation of a good tree, as is laid down as the rule by some. We advo- 

 cate the former plan, and instance a case in our own experience. 



