the niost useful in its native country, the Mauritius, 
where it is not only common, but is cultivated for the 
sake of its leaves, which are extensively used in the 
manufacture of the bags or sacks in which sugar is 
exported. They are increased by seed, or may be propa- 
gated by cuttings, the former being the method by which 
a stock is usually obtained in this country. There has 
jately been introduced into the greenhouse two very 
ornamental kinds, Javanicus Variegata and Veitchii, 
_ both with foliage striped green and white. As decorative 
plants they are exceedingly valuable, both for the green- 
house and parlor. These variegated kinds are yet scarce 
and high priced. They are increased by cuttings, which 
root rather slowly; the temperature in which they are 
propagated should not be less than 75°. 
PZXONIES. 
A’ HE Peeonies are common in all Southern gardens, and 
-== are divided into two distinct groups, the Herbaceous 
‘and the Tree Peoney. The Herbaceous Peeonies are well 
Known ornaments of our gardens, where they are great 
favorites, from their showy flowers, their great hardiness, 
and their easy culture; all essential qualities for a large 
garden, and for such only are they desirable. The roots 
‘of these plants are composed of bundles of carrot-like 
tubers, which may be separated from each other to 
increase any particular species or variety; or the tubers 
of the commen Pzeonies may be grafted with shoots of 
any choice kinds. The tree or shrubby species are chiefly 
increased by grafting on the roots of the herbaceous sorts. 
Of the herbaceous species, Officinalis, the old double 
<rimson, was the first introduced into English gardens, 
Having been brought from Switzerland in 1548, where it 
