SAXIFRAGACE.-E. 1 33 



Parnassia. — This is a beautiful and peculiar genus, compris- 

 ing few species. The beautiful arrangement of the stamens — five 

 fertile or perfect, and five imperfect, the latter surmounted by 

 filaments and balls — will reward a deeper than mere casual ex- 

 amination. They are dwarf plants suitable for culture in moist 

 soil, either in shade or sunshine; but abundant moisture is of 

 the first importance in whatever aspect the plants may be 

 located. They are, in fact, natives of sandy bogs and wet hill- 

 sides, and prefer an oozy condition as regards moisture, 

 otherwise they appear indifferent to the kind of soil. Easily 

 increased by division ; but should seed have to be resorted to, 

 it should be borne in mind that, in common with most bog- 

 plants, the seed of these should be so^\^l as soon as ripe; or if 

 to be transported a distance, let them be put in some moist 

 mediumx, and be kept moist till they are finally committed to 

 the earth where they are to remain, or in pots in a cold frame ; 

 ultimately, when big enough, to be transferred to permanent 

 quarters. 



P. asarifolia [Asa?'u??i - leaved Grass of Parnassus). — This 

 species grows about i foot high, forming tufts of dark-green, 

 roundish, kidney-shaped root-leaves smooth and shining. The 

 flower-stems are erect and naked, except for one leaf placed 

 about halfway up each stem, bearing one large five-petalled 

 white flower. Flowers in July and August. Native of North 

 America. 



P. caroliniana ( Carolina Grass of Parnassus). — In this 

 species the principal superficial distinction is in the leaves, 

 which are roundish, oval, heart-shaped. The flowers and 

 arrangement of stamens are very similar to the last, but the 

 flower-stems are usually stronger and taller. Flowers about the 

 same time as preceding. Native of North America. 



P. palustris (Marsh Grass of Parnassus). — This is a British 

 species, and quite distinct from either of the preceding. The 

 colour of the flowers is the same, but the leaves are smaller and 

 are acutely heart-shaped. The imperfect stamens have ten or 

 more small yellow globular bodies attached to their tops, in- 

 stead of three, as is the case with the other two species. The 

 plant is, besides, smaller than the others, rarely exceeding 9 

 inches high. Flowers in July and August. 



Saxifraga {Saxifrage). — This genus is pretty well known, 

 being not uncommon in various forms in gardens generally 

 throughout the country. It comprises, however, a large number 

 of species which are not by any means familiar occupants of 

 gardens. There is great diversity of character of foHage and 

 inflorescence amongst the species. There is a large group with 



