GAGEA—GALANTHUS. 95 
yellow, of both single and double forms, on the top of a 
naked flower-stem, and over them is a crown of leaves, 
making it one of the most beautiful objects in the gar- 
den. ‘The flowers precede those of the hyacinth, which 
adds to their many attractions (See Engraving, Page 93). 
While all the species are objects of interest in the garden, 
those described above fully represent the genus. 
GAGEHA. 
A considerable genus of half-hardy bulbs, allied to 
the Tulip. The flowers are yellow, produced in umbels 
on short stems, and appear about the same time as the 
Crocus. They are, practically, of no use in this country, 
not being sufficiently hardy for open air culture, and not 
worthy a place in the greenhouse. 
GALANTHUS. 
Snowdrop. 
These elegant little flowers, the first to open in 
spring, should be found in every garden, not only 
because they are the earliest spring flower, but because 
they are the loveliest. It is not an uncommon thing to 
have Snowdrops in flower in February, at least two weeks 
ahead of the Crocus, particularly if planted in some 
well-protected sunny border, a place where they should 
always be found. The Snowdrop thrives in almost any 
situation or soil; it will live and bloom anywhere, sur- 
viving more hard treatment than any other plant, 
excepting grass, yet there are but few flowers that more 
highly appreciate good care and culture. The bulbs 
should be planted as early in the autumn as they can be 
secured, as they suffer much if left long out of ground. 
They should be planted in small clumps and left to care 
for themselves, which they will do, whether planted in 
sun or shade, under the trees or in the grass; in fact, 
where anything will grow the Snowdrop will thrive. By 
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