of the stem surrounded by small, oblong, membranaceous 

 scales. 



There is a delicacy in this herbaceous plant which renders 

 it attractive and worthy of cultivation : although it does not 

 form a prominent feature in the flower-border, still it pro- 

 duces a good effect in the front of beds with other small 

 flowers. It blooms in April, grows about nine inches high, 

 with several stalks from the same root ; thrives well in peat 

 earth, or in light mould and rotten leaves. It is propagated 

 by separating the roots in the autumn, as it is in a dormant 

 state at this season. It loses its leaves about the end of July, 

 after which the roots may be divided; but this should not be 

 done until the plant is of two or three years growth. 



It is a native of Canada, where it grows spontaneously in 

 the woods, and was introduced here in 1680. 



REFERENCE TO THE PLATE. 



1. Stamens and pistil magnified. 



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