332 ROCK GARDENS 



of easiest culture, and bold masses of it planted by the side of a 

 stream are very effective. Easily raised from seed, which sows itself 

 freely. 



P. kitaibeliana. — Moist soil in partial shade. Downy leaves and 

 rose-coloured flowers. It is a variety of P. spectabilis. 



P. latifolia (syn. P. graveolens). — Likes an open position in sandy 

 peat and loam. Will do well planted between rocks. It requires 

 plenty of moisture during the growing season and perfect drainage. 

 Soft, greyish leaves. Rather broad and large heads of violet- 

 coloured flowers in some profusion during the early summer. A 

 handsome plant, of easy culture. Readily increased by division or 

 seed. 



P. Littoniana. — Partial shade in rich, moist loam. Leaves of 

 rather upright habit. The calyx in which the flower-bud is 

 enveloped is bright red. The flower itself varies in colour from rich 

 dark purple to pale lilac. These are borne on stems from 12 to 1 8 

 inches high, in pyramidal heads shaped more like an orchid. The 

 effect of the purple flowers and the red calyx is very striking and 

 beautiful. This is quite a new introduction from China. It is 

 reputed quite hardy, and not difficult to cultivate, and should prove 

 a great acquisition. 



P. longiflora. — Likes a half-shady position in very moist, sandy 

 loam. Leaves and all its parts covered with a white, mealy powder. 

 Umbels of lilac-coloured flowers, having tubes i inch or more in 

 length. A handsome and distinct species, and of easy culture, and 

 increased by seeds. 



P. /u^eola.— Rich, moist loam in partial shade, though this latter 

 is not essential. Forms compact tufts of bright green leaves. 

 Umbels of soft yellow flowers, borne on stems about 6 to 9 inches 

 high. Vigorous, and of easy culture, and should be freely grown, 

 and is one of the best. Increased by division. 



P. marginata. — Open situation amongst stones in gritty loam, 

 plentifully mixed with lime rubbish. Forms branching stems, each 

 bearing a rosette of smooth, greyish, powdery leaves, with a silvery 

 edge. Small heads of pale lilac flowers in April and May. One of 

 the best and easiest to cultivate. It is liable to grow leggy, and 

 when this happens it should be taken up and divided. 



P. megasaefolia. — Requires a very sheltered position in sandy 

 loam and leaf-mould. Large, round, leathery leaves and rosy- 

 purple or pale lilac-coloured flowers in umbels, on stems about 12 

 inches high. It flowers in winter, so will need shelter. It is quite 

 hardy, and is easily increased by division. 



P. minima. — Sun or partial shade in a well-drained, sandy soil, 

 with abundant moisture at its roots. Dwarf-growing, and forming 

 tufts of coarsely toothed, prostrate leaves. Flowers rose-coloured, 



